RTHK: Indonesia reports 54,000 virus cases, beats India

Indonesia reported more than 54,000 new coronavirus cases for the first time on Wednesday, surpassing recent daily infections in India, whose disastrous outbreak is declining, and becoming Asia's new virus hotspot.

Officials fear that the more highly transmissible delta variant is now spreading from the islands of Java and Bali, where outbreaks prompted a partial lockdown that closed places of worship, malls, parks and restaurants.

I predict the outbreak will increase continuously in July as we are not able yet to prevent the spread of infections," epidemiology expert Pandu Riono at the University of Indonesia said on Wednesday. "Emergency social restrictions are still inadequate. They should be twice as stringent since we are facing the delta variant, which is two times more contagious.

The Health Ministry reported 54,517 new cases and 991 deaths on Wednesday, bringing the number of confirmed cases since the pandemic began above 2.6 million and the number of confirmed fatalities to more than 69,000.

A month ago, daily cases were running at about 8,000.

Reported daily cases in Indonesia are now higher than in India, despite Indonesia having far less testing by population.

India reported fewer than 39,000 cases on Wednesday, far below its peak of more than 400,000 daily cases in May, following lockdowns in its worst-hit areas and a stepped-up vaccination drive.

Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said the government has identified the spread of the delta variant in some regions outside Java and Bali.

He told lawmakers on Tuesday that across the country, more than 90,000 of the 120,000 hospital beds for Covid-19 patients are occupied.

Nationally, we still have some room. But the bed occupancy rate is very high in some provinces where the explosion of the delta variant is concentrated, Sadikin said.

With the increase in deaths over the past month, some residents near Jakarta have begun helping overburdened gravediggers.

As the diggers are too tired and do not have enough resources to dig, the residents in my neighbourhood decided to help," said Jaya Abidin, who lives in Bogor on the outskirts of the capital. Because if we do not do this, we will have to wait in turn a long time for a burial in the middle of the night.

The government is struggling to acquire enough vaccines to reach its target of inoculating more than 181 million of its 270 million people by March 2022. So far, only 15.6 million people have been fully vaccinated.

So far, the worlds fourth-most populous country has secured 137.6 million doses of Sinovac, AstraZeneca and Moderna vaccines, enough for about 69 million people. (AP)

This story has been published on: 2021-07-15. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
South Africa: Mamabolo calls for restoration of order to advance economic recovery

Gauteng MEC for Public Transport and Roads Infrastructure, Jacob Mamabolo, has appealed to communities to act responsibly in order to safeguard efforts to rebuild the economy.

"We therefore make an appeal to communities in Gauteng to act responsibly and desist from acts of lawlessness that have resulted in economic and social disruptions, the MEC said on Thursday.

Mamabolo said he was deeply concerned about the effects of the ongoing unrest on the already battered provincial economy and the taxi industry in particular.

He commended the cooperation between law enforcement and taxi drivers, who have taken a firm and decisive stance against acts of rampant looting, destruction and criminality.

It is within this context that we welcome and appreciate the stance taken by the taxi industry to defend their business around malls and commercial sites.

We further appreciate that the industry is working with law enforcement agencies and communities to protect these important sites.

"We also commend various structures in our communities that are working with law enforcement and other agencies of the State to restore law and order across our province," Mamabolo said.

The MEC said the unrest could revive simmering conflicts between taxi associations over routes at this difficult time.

"It is of utmost importance that the industry protects its interests, as this will contribute to peace and stability. The unrest, looting and destruction of commercial sites and malls was likely to lead to conflicts and fights for lucrative routes," Mamabolo said.

The current volatile situation has seen workers and residents struggling to get to their places of employment and elsewhere due to safety concerns and limited access to transport systems.

Mamabolo further commended the taxi industry for being available to transport commuters in the midst of instability and for maintaining public transport services, in line with the province's vision of Smart Mobility.

Their stance in protecting lives and property is most encouraging during this time of untold devastation and despair.

The industry bore the brunt of the lockdown regulations, which led to revenue dropping significantly and left many operators/owners in financial difficulty.

The outbreak of the pandemic has had a significant impact on the taxi industry and the latest unrest could serve as a trigger leading to conflicts over routes in the province, Mamabolo said.

Mamabolo said restoring calm and stability in the province is of critical importance, so that attention is paid to efforts to reboot the economy.  SAnews.gov.za

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Hong Kong: Fisheries sector gets jabs

Secretary for Food & Health Prof Sophia Chan today visited the Aberdeen Wholesale Fish Market to observe the Governments COVID-19 outreach vaccination service for over 600 fishing vessel deckhands.

Prof Chan thanked the deckhands and fishermen associations for their positive response to the vaccination service.

She said: "These fishing vessel deckhands support local fishing vessels in their operations in Mainland waters, and assist in the unloading of fish catches at wholesale fish markets. They help maintain a steady supply of fresh marine fish in Hong Kong."

In addition to explaining why the outreach vaccination arrangement is crucially important, Prof Chan expressed hope that more fishermen and fishing vessel deckhands will get vaccinated.

"Mainland fishing vessel deckhands travel frequently between Hong Kong and Mainland waters, and have contact with fellow local crew members on fishing vessels and the staff and buyers and others at wholesale fish markets.

"This outreach vaccination service is of utmost importance to safeguarding public health and ensuring normal operation of relevant businesses."

Prof Chan also appealed to other sectors and trades for their participation in the citys vaccination campaign with a view to protecting one another.

"In the face of challenges posed by mutant strains, we count on our citizens to fulfil their civic responsibility and receive vaccines extensively in order to strengthen the immunity barrier in Hong Kong."

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RTHK: At least 19 dead in Germany as storms lash Europe

Heavy rains and floods lashing western Europe have killed at least 19 people in Germany and left around 50 missing, as rising waters led several houses to collapse on Thursday.

Unusually heavy rains also ravaged neighbouring Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Belgium, where another two people were reported dead.

Rhineland-Palatinate and North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) states were the worst hit by the unusually heavy rainfall, which has caused rivers to burst their banks and threatens to bring down more homes.

"We have never seen such a catastrophe, it is truly devastating," Rhineland-Palatinate premier Malu Dreyer told state lawmakers.

Four of the dead in Germany were in the municipality of Schuld south of Bonn where six houses were swept away by floods, a police spokesman in the city of Koblenz said.

Several of the dead were recovered from flooded cellars while another eight people were reported dead in the district of Euskirchen.

Emergency workers struggled to evacuate people in endangered buildings and two firemen were killed in the line of duty in the towns of Altena and Werdohl.

The German military said it would deploy 300 soldiers across the two affected states to assist in rescue efforts.

Farther north in the city of Leverkusen, a power outage triggered by the storms led to the evacuation of a hospital with 468 patients.

City authorities reported that after intensive care patients were moved to other facilities overnight, the other wards would have to be cleared in the course of the day.

The environment ministry in Rhineland-Palatinate warned it expected floodwaters on the Rhine and Moselle rivers to rise with more rainfall.

Neighbouring Belgium has also seen several days of heavy rain that has caused rivers in the French-speaking region of Wallonia to burst their banks. Two were reported dead.

The provinces of Liege and Namur were especially affected, with the resort town of Spa completely flooded. In the town of Chaudfontaine, daily Le Soir reported that nearly 1,800 people had to evacuate.

"We have rarely experienced such intense flooding. You have to go back to 1998 to have experienced this," Chaudefontaine mayor Daniel Bacquelaine told RTL radio.

The southern Dutch province of Limburg which is bordered by Germany and Belgium also reported widespread damage with rising waters threatening to cut off the small city of Valkenburg west of Maastricht.

Local news footage showed small rivers of water flowing through the scenic city centre's streets and at least one old age home had been evacuated. (AFP)

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South Africa: Borders to be kept open to ensure movement of goods, says Pandor

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, has assured Namibia that transport corridors will continue operating without interruption to deliver goods and services, particularly essential ones needed to fight COVID-19.

This comes after Namibia expressed concern at the incidents of looting and criminality prevailing in pockets of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.

The Minister was speaking in Windhoek, where she was on an official working visit and held diplomatic and political consultations with her Namibian counterparts.

I want to stress that everyone in South Africa, as in Namibia, in terms of our Constitution has the right to demonstrate and protest peacefully.

However, any action of destruction of property and threat to life is a criminal activity and will be responded to by security forces, Pandor said.

We have begun to effect arrests in a number of areas, including people who are caught with stolen goods which were looted from retail stores in our country.

She said government is working around the clock to restore law and order, and to ensure economic activity resumes in South Africa.

In the meantime, Pandor said government is keeping the borders open and working closely with business to ensure that goods continue to move during the worst effects of the pandemic.

Its South Africas duty to ensure the free flow of goods between countries in the region and South Africa. In fact, the biggest trading partners of South Africa are on the African continent, so we have a duty to restore order for economic activity to continue.

The Minister expressed concern at the nature of violence that has played out for days in the country. We should be worried because sometimes, these things sometimes spill over.

Pandor told delegates that the economy was beginning to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic that had wrecked economies across the globe.

This is going to further reverse our economic growth, so our people should really learn that such conduct doesnt serve to achieve any positive objectives.

People have lost jobs and will continue to lose jobs. People will land in prison and face serious fines. So, the effects are really negative.

She called on South Africans to ensure that these acts are not repeated.

COVID-19

The two nations applauded efforts by its governments to combat the spread of COVID-19, including the rolling out of vaccines to their respective populations.

Namibia commended South Africa for leading, together with India at the World Trade Organisation (WTO), the initiative to have intellectual property rights waiver on COVID-19 related medicines and vaccines to enable equal and fair access to all countries, rich and poor.

Namibia also congratulated South Africa on being chosen to host the World Health Organisations (WHO) first COVID-19 messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine technology hub, to scale up production and access to vaccines.

The Ministers applauded the excellent cooperation in the facilitation of securing the transit and repatriation of stranded citizens through their respective countries when countries instituted hard-lockdowns to curb the further spread of COVID-19.

They further welcomed the continued stance by both countries to keep their common borders open, thereby enabling cross-border trade and commerce, consistent with their desire to realise closer regional integration and the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area, said the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Drought relief

Namibia also expressed its gratitude for the R100 million donation towards drought relief efforts pledged by the South African government.

On regional matters, the meeting exchanged views on issues related to the peace and security situation in the SADC region and commended SADC initiatives to address the challenges in the Republic of Mozambique and the Kingdom of eSwatini to ensure lasting peace and security in the region.

The two countries also called on the unconditional removal of all economic sanctions against Zimbabwe.

In this connection, they undertook to continue to intensify calls for the removal of sanctions in bilateral and multilateral platforms, the department said.

The Minister also paid a courtesy call to the Namibian President, Dr Hage Geingob.

The consultations allowed the Ministers to exchange views on a wide range of issues, including strengthening and consolidation of bilateral relations and cooperation between Namibia and South Africa.  SAnews.gov.za

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South Africa: Cele confident of restoration of law and order in Gauteng, KZN

The racial tensions in Phoenix, Durban, have claimed the lives of 15 people, Police Minister Bheki Cele says.

The tensions were triggered by the ongoing business lootings and public violence that swept KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng in the past week.

Cele, who visited the area on Wednesday evening, said racial tensions have characterised the unrest and the communitys efforts to protect their neighbourhood from looting.

With the deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to assist the police to restore law and order, Cele expressed confidence that safety in area will improve.

While the situation is not ideal at all and there are ugly scenes playing out on the streets of Phoenix, the racial direction that these unrests are taking must be arrested speedily, he said.

The Ministry in the statement expressed concern at the mass business lootings in Mobeni, in the South of Durban, by hundreds of people from surrounding areas.

Cele witnessed first-hand how mobs risked their lives during crowd control dispersal measures by law enforcement on the ground.

The Ministry is pleased that engagements with the private security industry have been escalated to improve coordination while managing the unrest, read a statement issued by the police.

Cele expressed confidence that the ongoing business looting and public violence will soon be arrested.

On Wednesday, he conducted a situational analysis of the destruction in areas in both provinces. He also received reports from local police in Phoenix and Mobeni in Durban on their operational requirements to contain the violence.

The Ministry said Cele remains encouraged that members of the South African Police Service, working together with other law enforcement agencies, had managed to restore a level of public safety in parts of Gauteng.

He is confident that the intervention of the SANDF will turn around the volatile situation in parts of KZN.

Earlier in the day, Cele conducted a walkabout at the Tshwane Regional Mall and Nkomo Village shopping centre in Tshwane, where looting was cut short by police and community intervention.

Cele expressed appreciation to the community structures who worked within the law to ensure community safety.

He said it is through these working relations that the space for criminality is squeezed out.

Police have responded to threats of buildings being targeted, including the Ford manufacturing plant in Mamelodi. It is through the quick responses of the SAPS that many of these buildings have been left untouched and looting has been prevented, said the Minister.  SAnews.gov.za

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South Africa: Free State commends residents for condemning violent protests

Free State Premier Sisi Ntombela has thanked residents for exercising restraint, discipline and ensuring the province remained peaceful as violent protests engulfed parts of the country.

The peace loving people of the Free State province spoke in unison in condemnation of the violence and pledged to prevent any violence in our beloved province, the Free State Provincial Government said on Thursday.

The provincial government said many organisations and ordinary people have strongly condemned the violence and rightfully warned that lawlessness will not be allowed in the province.

Our people realise that the violence is self-defeating and will only bring about long-term suffering for the majority of our people. Jobs, which we desperately need at this moment, will sadly be lost as a result of the events of the past few days.

The right to a peaceful protest remains a constitutional right for all South Africans. This is a right, which was won through many years of difficulty and strife. Many of our people paid the ultimate price for the realisation of this sacrosanct right.

We therefore wish to plead with all our people to exercise this right in a manner that promotes peace and stability in our communities, the provincial government said.

During Wednesdays Executive Council meeting, the provincial government received a number of reports, which included a report from law enforcement agencies in the province.

The report by the law enforcement agencies was necessitated by the need to have a comprehensive understanding regarding peace and stability in the province.

This as parts of Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal experienced violence that has resulted in the deaths of civilians, the looting of public and private property, destruction of infrastructure, as well as the suspension of essential services this week.

We commend the continued vigilance demonstrated by our law enforcement agencies and urge all our people to continue to work closely with them.

Furthermore, we wish to commend the people of the province for the continued adherence to the Adjusted Alert Level 4 regulations, particularly the observation of the non-pharmaceutical interventions, the provincial government said.  SAnews.gov.za

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Evaluating peers' food choices may improve healthy eating habits among young adolescents

According to the World Health Organization, over 340 million children and adolescents (aged 5 to 10 years old) were classified as overweight or obese in 2016, a statistic that has risen from 14% since 1975. Childhood obesity is associated with a wide range of severe health complications and an increased risk of premature onset of illnesses, including diabetes and heart disease. Without intervention, children and young adolescents classified as obese are likely to remain so throughout adolescence and adulthood.

A new study conducted in the United Arab Emirates investigates whether asking early adolescents to evaluate the food choices of peers triggers deliberative thinking that improves their own food selection, even when the peers' food choices are unhealthy. The findings suggest that incorporating evaluations of the healthiness of others' food choices can be a tool to fight unhealthy eating lifestyles. This study is the first to ask early adolescents to evaluate the food choices of "remote peers" (real or fictitious children of the same age who are not physically present). In this instance, the remote peers were fictitious students of the same age identified as coming from another school whose varied (healthy or unhealthy) food choices were shared in writing before the young adolescents participating in the study selected their own food.

The findings were published in a Child Development article, written by researchers at the American University of Sharjah, the University of Granada, Zayed University, University of St. Gallen, New York University Abu Dhabi, Center for Behavioral Institutional Design and the Luxembourg Institute of Socio-Economic Research.

"We initially hypothesized that early adolescents who evaluate the healthiness of food choices of remote peers will make healthier decisions irrespective of the healthiness of the remote peers' choice," said Ernesto Reuben, lead researcher and professor at the Center for Behavioral Institutional Design at New York University Abu Dhabi. "Our second hypothesis suggested that asking young adolescents to evaluate the healthiness of the choices of remote peers will trigger more deliberative decision-making among 6th graders compared to 5th graders, because cognitive development even in the short span of one year may result in greater reliance on reasoned decisions made more slowly and thoughtfully, rather than intuitive decisions that are made impulsively. Growth in reliance on deliberative decision making with age during early adolescence would mean that being asked to evaluate the food choices of a remote peer could have a higher impact on the healthiness of food choices of the older students compared to the younger ones."

Participants included 467 students (54.5% female) in the 5th and 6th grades recruited from three international primary schools in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The sample was predominantly of middle to high socioeconomic status.

The week before the experiment, an email was sent to parents of participating students to inform them that they would not need to bring a snack for one of their school breaks on the day of the study. Participants were presented with four different food trays each with five different food items of similar nutritional value evaluated by a nutritionist at the Burjeel Hospital in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Each adolescent was asked to select four food items from the trays. Before making their own food choices, they were informed about the four food items chose by an unknown remote peer attending a different school who was also participating in the experiment.

In each participating school, different classes were randomly assigned to one of four treatments (variables):

Healthy Peer: the remote peer's food items were all relatively healthy: an apple, a banana, a pear, and water.

Unhealthy Peer: the remote peer's food items were all relatively unhealthy: gummi bears, a lollipop, chips, and chocolate milk.

Healthy Peer with Evaluation: after receiving the information about the remote peer's choices but before choosing their own food, participants had to evaluate the remote peer's decisions in terms of healthiness and explain their evaluation. The peer's choices were the same as in Healthy Peer treatment (apple, banana, pear and water).

Unhealthy Peer with Evaluation: mirrors the Healthy Peer with Evaluation treatment but uses the peer's choices of the Unhealthy Peer treatment (gummi bears, a lollipop, chips and chocolate milk).

Participants were also asked to evaluate the healthiness of the peer's choices as 'very unhealthy,' `unhealthy,' `healthy,' or `very healthy.' Participant's knowledge of the healthiness of the food items was also measured (how they thought parents from their school would rank the different food trays from unhealthiest to healthiest).

The findings indicated that the mere fact of being asked to evaluate the choices of a remote peer led young adolescents to choose significantly healthier food, whether or not the peer's food choice was healthy or unhealthy. In addition, even the small age difference between 5th and 6th graders mattered. Evaluating the peer's choices improved the healthiness of the food choices of 6th graders more than those of 5th graders.

"These findings show that making individuals think more deliberately affects their decision-making--moreover, the stage of their cognitive development matters," said Francisco Lagos, professor of economics at Zayed University and the University of Granada. "The findings also have important public health implications: having a better understanding of how young adolescents develop, evaluate, and subsequently make food choices can help us design effective strategies to improve people's eating habits while they are young."

The authors acknowledge that the adolescents in the study made their decisions without social interaction, whereas food choices are often made by adolescents in social contexts. In addition, study participants were provided popular, familiar healthy food items such as fruit, but not healthy options sometimes considered less attractive, such as green vegetables. Participants were also from relatively affluent and educated families in which adults may be more likely to emphasize the benefits of health eating. The findings are based on specific age cohorts and may not apply to younger adolescents with less capacity for deliberative thinking. Finally, one of the main challenges in improving eating habits is finding effects that last long-term and this study evaluated only short-term effects.

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This research was supported by a grant from the College of Business at Zayed University as part of a project on the Remedies against childhood obesity.

Summarized from Child Development, Early adolescents' food selection after evaluating the healthiness of remote peers' food choices by Cobo-Reyes, R. (American University of Sharjah), Lacomba, J.A. (University of Granada), Lagos, F. (Zayed University and University of Granada), Zenker, C. (University of St. Gallen), Reuben, E. (New York University Abu Dhabi, Center for Behavioral Institutional Design, and the Luxembourg Institute of Socio-Economic Research). Copyright 2021 The Society for Research in Child Development, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Report outlines how public transit agencies can advance equity

Austin, Texas (July 15, 2021)

Access to high-quality public transportation can make communities more equitable by increasing access to critical opportunities such as employment, health care and healthy food, particularly for low-income individuals and people of color. A new paper published today in the Transportation Research Record identifies six broad categories of equity-advancing practices that reach beyond existing guidelines and could be widely employed by public transit agencies nationwide.

"Many of the established practices for understanding and advancing public transit equity focus on precise quantitative measurements that are disconnected from riders' day-to-day experiences," said Alex Karner, an assistant professor of community and regional planning at The University of Texas at Austin and the study's lead author. "In transit, equity goes far beyond simply assessing how service is distributed. We wanted to lift up practices that agencies were using to create fairer and more just public transit systems."

The report studied eight public transit providers in various cities across the country and identified six practices that can help ensure that public transit works well for those who need it the most. These are:

Establishing advisory committees to provide more formal, regular and specialized channels for public input than can be achieved through traditional meetings;

Partnering with advocacy organizations, which can overcome barriers to public involvement and include hard-to-reach populations;

Incorporating equity into capital planning to ensure that transit vehicles, maintenance and system expansions equitably benefit population groups;

Planning with other regional transportation agencies that are often a critical venue for equity-related conversations that cross regional boundaries, covering issues such as gentrification, housing affordability, commuter-oriented public transit and other issues;

Using ride-hailing and microtransit solutions, where appropriate, to facilitate public transit use and reduce gaps in service; and

Creating an equity culture by altering hiring, contracting and organizational practices to better weave equity principles throughout an entire agency.

In addition to establishing these broad categories, the paper assesses each method, offering insight into its limitations and opportunities by assessing real-world implementation as employed by the eight public transit organizations included in the report. Some of the highlights include the convening of a "Transit Equity Advisory Committee" by the Tri-County Metropolitan District of Oregon (TriMet) that successfully advocated for a reduced-fare program and decriminalized fare evasion; and TriMet's subsequent creation of a dedicated Department of Equity, Inclusion and Community Affairs to assist with their equity-related goals.

"At the end of the day, transportation equity is about fairness," Karner said. "There are many ways that public transit agencies can pursue this goal. Our key result is that the agencies doing the most in this space have made it their mission to incorporate equity into all aspects of their day-to-day operations. And they are the most likely to succeed."

The transit organizations included in the study are Capital Metro in Austin; the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District; LINK Houston, an equity-oriented nonprofit organization in Houston; the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County in the Houston Metro; the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority; the Massachusetts Department of Transportation; TriMet; and rabbittransit, a rural transit provider in southeast Pennsylvania.

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The paper, co-authored by community and regional planning graduate student Kaylyn Levine, was completed in collaboration with Federal Transit Administration partners and a community advisory group assembled to provide input on the broader research effort.

This article, "Equity-Advancing Practices at Public Transit Agencies in the United States", by Alex Karner and Kaylyn Levin and published in Transportation Research Record, will be free to access for a limited time and can be read here https:/ / journals. sagepub. com/ doi/ full/ 10. 1177/ 03611981211016861

About The University of Texas at Austin School of Architecture:

A top-tier school of design and planning, The School of Architecture offers degrees in architecture, architectural history, community and regional planning, historic preservation, interior design, landscape architecture, sustainable design, and urban design. Its faculty comprises many accomplished and award-winning professionals with a broad range of expertise in architectural history, design, building systems, technology, sustainability, transportation, Latin American architecture and urbanism, and the social effects of the built environment. The school also advances scholarship through three dedicated research units: the Center for American Architecture and Design, the Center for Sustainable Development, and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

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RTHK: China 'needs to cooperate' in Covid-19 probe

The head of the World Health Organization (WHO) called on Thursday for China to cooperate better in the next phase of investigations into the origins of the pandemic, demanding more access to raw data.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told reporters in Geneva that the UN health agency had developed a framework for moving forward with the second phase of the vital investigation into where Covid-19 came from.

"We hope there will be better cooperation to get to the bottom of what happened," he said.

He pointed to several problems during the initial probe.

"One problem is sharing raw data and I said it at the conclusion of the first phase, that there is this problem and it has to be addressed," he said.

Another issue he acknowledged was that "there was a premature push to ... especially reduce one of the options like the lab theory."

The UN health agency has been facing intensifying pressure for a new, more in-depth investigation of Covid-19's origins.

The WHO only managed to send a team of independent, international experts to Wuhan in January, more than a year after Covid-19 first surfaced there in late 2019, to help probe the pandemic origins.

But in their long-delayed report published in late March, the international team and their Chinese counterparts drew no firm conclusions, instead ranking a number of hypotheses according to how likely they believed they were.

The report said the virus jumping from bats to humans via an intermediate animal was the most probable scenario, while a theory involving the virus leaking from a laboratory was "extremely unlikely".

The investigation and report have faced criticism for lacking transparency and access, and for not evaluating the lab-leak theory more deeply -- a mere 440 words of the report were dedicated to discussing and dismissing it.

Long dismissed as a right-wing conspiracy theory, and vehemently rejected by Beijing, the idea that Covid-19 may have emerged from a lab leak has been gaining increasing momentum in the United States especially.

Tedros, who has continued to insist that all theories remain on the table, insisted Thursday that more investigation was needed.

"I was a lab technician myself, an immunologist, and have worked in the lab, and lab accidents happen," he said.

"It's common. I have seen it happening," he said, stressing that "checking what happened, especially in our labs, is important."

"We need information, direct information on what the situation of these labs was before, at the start of the pandemic."

Tedros had previously lamented that the international team did not have access to all the raw data needed to make a proper assessment.

For the next phase of the investigation, he said, "I hope there will be better cooperation, and we have continued the engagement with China, and also with (other) member states, ... to get into the bottom of what happened."

Pointing to the more than four million official deaths from Covid worldwide, the WHO chief said: "I think we owe it to them to know what happened." (AFP)

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South Africa: Mop up operations commence in Gauteng

Days after violent protests engulfed parts of the country, the situation in Gauteng has stabilised with clean-up operations to vandalised facilities having commenced.

We are pleased with the reports that Gauteng is largely calm with fewer incidences overnight and thus far, only six incidences were reported. This has been largely due to increased deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Metro Police in areas that have been identified as potential hotspots, acting Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said on Thursday.

Providing an update on the ongoing violent protests in some parts of South Africa, the Minister said the situation in KwaZulu-Natal remains volatile but moving towards stability.

The Ministers in the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster (JCPS) are currently in KwaZulu-Natal, working with the provincial government to assess and monitor the situation on the ground and attend to arising issues.

Last night and today we have arrested 139 additional people, which makes a cumulative total of arrests in Gauteng 725.

To date, the SAPS has received reports of 26 deaths cumulatively in Gauteng related to the violence. However, six bodies were discovered on the roof of Tembisa South Mall and an inquest has been opened - these deaths are not related to the incidence of violence, Ntshavheni said.

The latest statistics for KwaZulu-Natal show that 39 incidences were reported on Wednesday night and Thursday.

An additional 392 arrests were made, which makes the cumulative number of arrests to 1 478.

Fatalities that have been linked to the violence are cumulatively 91.

The Provincial Commissioners of the SAPS have in the meantime activated Sub Social Crime Prevention Strategies and have been engaging with various stakeholders in order to amplify current operational plans to best tackle the looting and destruction of property, the Minister said.

With regards to the deployment of 25 000 soldiers, 10 000 were on the ground as of Thursday. This is an increment of 5 000 from Wednesday.

Resolving racial tensions in Phoenix

Government has expressed concern on reports of racial tensions in areas such as Phoenix in Durban.

Ministers have visited the area and engaged various stakeholders to resolve racial tensions. Furthermore, members of the SAPS and the SANDF have been deployed in the area to restore law and order, the Minister said.

She called on communities in altercations to bridge the racial barriers and work together towards a common goal of protecting South Africa.

We have noted reports of some armed community members brandishing firearms and dangerous weapons publicly in an apparent reiteration against perpetrators of the public violence, the Minister said.

She said that while persons are entitled to protect their property and lives, this must be done in accordance with the Constitution.

It should be done in a manner that life is protected as provided for in our Constitution and can only be infringed in extremely limited circumstances inter alia in order to protect life or the bodily integrity of the one who is being attacked.

We do not want a situation where members of the public are at loggerheads with the law after their attempts to protect their communities, properties and their own lives. We are pleading with communities to not infringe on the rights of others and do not take the law into your own hands, the Minister said.

Community efforts to protect their properties and communities should be done with the Community Policing Forums or the Community in Blue as they work within the established SAPS framework.

Economic impact

Meanwhile, government has expressed concern at the economic impact of the violence, looting and destruction of infrastructure that has taken place.

Over the past few days, the main routes have been blocked by protestors with stones and other dangerous items. Of concern is the effect on the supply value chain and movement of goods between Richards Bay and Durban port to various destinations, the Minister said.

The SANDF have been deployed to protect the national key points and the SAPS is providing escorts for the transportation of supplies such as oxygen, medicines and other key goods that have to reach other parts of the country.

We wish to address those that are still undertaking road blockades to desist from doing so because it is the poor, vulnerable and the marginalised who will suffer as a result of their actions.

The impact of the looters actions will be felt more by the poor and the middle class as many more people stand a chance to lose their livelihoods, the Minister said.

Ministers in the Economic and Infrastructure Cluster have been working with various industries to ensure the restoration of supply chains, movement of goods and the restoration of ports operations.

The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NatJOINTS) is also working tirelessly to ensure the reopening of the N2 and N3 to ensure the movement of goods.

Government has thanked community members who have started with clean up operations in the places that were destroyed and vandalised.

We are also encouraged by members of the community who are volunteering to ensure the country gets back to normal and economic activities resumes as soon as possible.

We call upon various sectors who provide support services to the vulnerable members of society to work with government to ensure that no one goes hungry during these difficult times. The Social Cluster has started various support programmes to ensure that affected communities get the support they need, the Minister said.

Government has extended condolences to those who have lost their lives during the violent protests and looting.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2021-07-15. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Launch of UNITE4TB partnership marks a new era in tuberculosis treatment development

TUCSON, Ariz., July 15, 2021 -- To advance anti-tuberculosis (TB) science and enable the progression of new, safe, and affordable treatment solutions for TB patients worldwide, a new consortium of 30 partners from 13 countries has officially launched. The 7-year, 185 million project called UNITE4TB, aims to accelerate and improve the clinical evaluation of combinations of existing and novel drugs, with the goal of developing new and highly active TB treatment regimens for drug-resistant and -sensitive TB.

UNITE4TB is the newest project of the IMI AMR Accelerator, a public-private collaboration with the shared goal of progressing the development of new medicines to treat or prevent resistant bacterial infections.

"Tuberculosis is a major threat to public health worldwide. By bringing together leading experts from the public and private sectors in Europe and beyond, UNITE4TB is well placed to deliver results that will accelerate the development of better treatment regimens to tackle this disease," says Dr. Pierre Meulien, Executive Director of IMI.

Worldwide, TB is one of the top 10 causes of death and the leading cause from a single infectious agent (above HIV/AIDS). The growing emergence of multidrug-resistant TB is well-recognised as a public health challenge and has sparked new interest and investment in anti-TB drug development. Despite increased activity in the field, an integrated approach to TB drug development is still limited.

With European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA) and Associated Partners on board, UNITE4TB has access to the majority of the most innovative TB compounds, currently in late pre-clinical, clinical phase 1, and early phase 2 stage. The consortium will deliver an efficient, global clinical trials network equipped to conduct phase 2 trials. State-of-the-art adaptive trial designs will be implemented, and advanced modelling, artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques will be employed. All of this will allow for the selection and testing of novel combination regimens with a high probability of success in subsequent phase 3 clinical trials.

Anja Karliczek, Germany's Federal Minister of Education and Research, says: "Europe's UNITE4TB project creates an important new platform for research to combat tuberculosis. Science and industry will jointly test their clinical candidates and share research results. The objective is to develop effective combinations for new, urgently needed solutions to treat tuberculosis. This public-private partnership will set a new standard in the fight against global diseases such as TB. UNITE4TB is a remarkable example of international research collaboration. I am delighted that Germany is supporting the consortium with funding of around 25 million euros to the two German partners. I am confident that UNITE4TB will contribute towards achieving the goal of ending tuberculosis by 2030 that was adopted by the G20 Heads of State and Government at the UN General Assembly."

Critical Path Institute, Ltd. (Ireland) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Critical Path Institute, an independent, nonprofit established as a public-private partnership. C-Path, Ltd. will lead the data sharing workgroup for UNITE4TB and will be assisting with machine learning and artificial intelligence efforts. C-Path's mission is to catalyze the development of new approaches that advance medical innovation and regulatory science, accelerating the path to a healthier world. C-Path, Ltd. EU is in Dublin, Ireland, and C-Path U.S. is in Tucson, Arizona. Learn more at c-path.eu and c-path.org.

UNITE4TB is the largest public-private collaboration on clinical TB drug development in the history of the EU. It will set a new standard for anti-TB regimen development, enhancing the efficiency with which new treatments are delivered to TB patients across the world.

This project has received funding from the Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking (JU) under grant agreement No 101007873. The JU receives support from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme and EFPIA, Deutsches Zentrum fur Infektionsforschung e. V. (DZIF), and Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Munchen (LMU). EFPIA/AP contribute to 50% of funding, whereas the contribution of DZIF and the LMU University Hospital Munich has been granted by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research.

UNITE4TB is a public-private partnership with representation from academic institutions, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), public organisations, and pharmaceutical companies. Over the next 7 years, the consortium will be active in approximately 40 trial sites on four continents (Europe, Asia, Africa and South America), with the goal of delivering novel phase 2 clinical trials that will accelerate the development of new TB drugs and regimens. Achieving this goal will facilitate fulfilment of one of the main unmet needs in the TB field: better-tolerated drug regimens of shorter duration that can be deployed to tackle tuberculosis across various drug-resistance patterns and co-morbidities. For more information, visit the Consortium website: http://www. unite4TB. org

Consortium partners

Academic/SME partners

Stichting Radboud Universitair Medisch Centrum (Radboudumc) (The Netherlands)

London School for Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) (United Kingdom)

University of Oxford (United Kingdom)

Forschungszentrum Borstel, Leibniz Lungenzentrum (Germany)

Lygature (The Netherlands)

Lancaster University (United Kingdom)

University College London (United Kingdom)

TASK (South Africa)

Vita-Salute San Raffaele University (UniSR) (Italy)

Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen (Germany)

KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation (KNCV) (The Netherlands)

Critical Path Institute, Limited (Ireland)

European Lung Foundation (United Kingdom)

Instituto de Saude Publica da Universidade do Porto (ISPUP) (Portugal)

University of Liverpool (United Kingdom)

Institut de Recherche Pour le Developpement (France)

University of Hamburg (Germany)

University of California San Francisco (UCSF) (USA)

TB Alliance (USA)

FIND (Switzerland)

University of Milano (UMIL) (Italy)

University St Andrews (United Kingdom)

Uppsala University (Sweden)

European Respiratory Society (Switzerland)

TBnet (Germany)

EFPIA/Associated Partners

GlaxoSmithKline Investigacion y Desarrollo S L (GSK) (Spain)

Janssen Pharmaceutical (Belgium)

Otsuka Novel Products GmbH (Germany)

Deutsches Zentrum fur Infektionsforschung (Germany)

LMU University Hospital Munich (Germany)

View a detailed overview of all partner information on the UNITE4TB website

###

This story has been published on: 2021-07-15. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Unconventional superconductor acts the part of a promising quantum computing platform

Scientists on the hunt for an unconventional kind of superconductor have produced the most compelling evidence to date that they've found one. In a pair of papers, researchers at the University of Maryland's (UMD) Quantum Materials Center (QMC) and colleagues have shown that uranium ditelluride (or UTe2 for short) displays many of the hallmarks of a topological superconductor--a material that may unlock new ways to build quantum computers and other futuristic devices.

"Nature can be wicked," says Johnpierre Paglione, a professor of physics at UMD, the director of QMC and senior author on one of the papers. "There could be other reasons we're seeing all this wacky stuff, but honestly, in my career, I've never seen anything like it."

All superconductors carry electrical currents without any resistance. It's kind of their thing. The wiring behind your walls can't rival this feat, which is one of many reasons that large coils of superconducting wires and not normal copper wires have been used in MRI machines and other scientific equipment for decades.

But superconductors achieve their super-conductance in different ways. Since the early 2000s, scientists have been looking for a special kind of superconductor, one that relies on an intricate choreography of the subatomic particles that actually carry its current.

This choreography has a surprising director: a branch of mathematics called topology. Topology is a way of grouping together shapes that can be gently transformed into one another through pushing and pulling. For example, a ball of dough can be shaped into a loaf of bread or a pizza pie, but you can't make it into a donut without poking a hole in it. The upshot is that, topologically speaking, a loaf and a pie are identical, while a donut is different. In a topological superconductor, electrons perform a dance around each other while circling something akin to the hole in the center of a donut.

Unfortunately, there's no good way to slice a superconductor open and zoom in on these electronic dance moves. At the moment, the best way to tell whether or not electrons are boogieing on an abstract donut is to observe how a material behaves in experiments. Until now, no superconductor has been conclusively shown to be topological, but the new papers show that UTe2 looks, swims and quacks like the right kind of topological duck.

One study, by Paglione's team in collaboration with the group of Aharon Kapitulnik at Stanford University, reveals that not one but two kinds of superconductivity exist simultaneously in UTe2. Using this result, as well as the way light is altered when it bounces off the material (in addition to previously published experimental evidence), they were able to narrow down the types of superconductivity that are present to two options, both of which theorists believe are topological. They published their findings on July 15, 2021, in the journal Science.

In another study, a team led by Steven Anlage, a professor of physics at UMD and a member of QMC, revealed unusual behavior on the surface of the same material. Their findings are consistent with the long-sought-after phenomenon of topologically protected Majorana modes. Majorana modes, exotic particles that behave a bit like half of an electron, are predicted to arise on the surface of topological superconductors. These particles particularly excite scientists because they might be a foundation for robust quantum computers. Anlage and his team reported their results in a paper published May 21, 2021 in the journal Nature Communications.

Superconductors only reveal their special characteristics below a certain temperature, much like water only freezes below zero Celsius. In normal superconductors, electrons pair up into a two-person conga line, following each other through the metal. But in some rare cases, the electron couples perform a circular dance around each other, more akin to a waltz. The topological case is even more special--the circular dance of the electrons contains a vortex, like the eye amidst the swirling winds of a hurricane. Once electrons pair up in this way, the vortex is hard to get rid of, which is what makes a topological superconductor distinct from one with a simple, fair-weather electron dance.

Back in 2018, Paglione's team, in collaboration with the team of Nicholas Butch, an adjunct associate professor of physics at UMD and a physicist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), unexpectedly discovered that UTe2 was a superconductor. Right away, it was clear that it wasn't your average superconductor. Most notably, it seemed unphased by large magnetic fields, which normally destroy superconductivity by splitting up the electron dance couples. This was the first clue that the electron pairs in UTe2 hold onto each other more tightly than usual, likely because their paired dance is circular. This garnered a lot of interest and further research from others in the field.

"It's kind of like a perfect storm superconductor," says Anlage. "It's combining a lot of different things that no one's ever seen combined before."

In the new Science paper, Paglione and his collaborators reported two new measurements that reveal the internal structure of UTe2. The UMD team measured the material's specific heat, which characterizes how much energy it takes to heat it up by one degree. They measured the specific heat at different starting temperatures and watched it change as the sample became superconducting.

"Normally there's a big jump in specific heat at the superconducting transition," says Paglione. "But we see that there's actually two jumps. So that's evidence of actually two superconducting transitions, not just one. And that's highly unusual."

The two jumps suggested that electrons in UTe2 can pair up to perform either of two distinct dance patterns.

In a second measurement, the Stanford team shone laser light onto a piece of UTe2 and noticed that the light reflecting back was a bit twisted. If they sent in light bobbing up and down, the reflected light bobbed mostly up and down but also a bit left and right. This meant something inside the superconductor was twisting up the light and not untwisting it on its way out.

Kapitulnik's team at Stanford also found that a magnetic field could coerce UTe2 into twisting light one way or the other. If they applied a magnetic field pointing up as the sample became superconducting, the light coming out would be tilted to the left. If they pointed the magnetic field down, the light tilted to the right. This told that researchers that, for the electrons dancing inside the sample, there was something special about the up and down directions of the crystal.

To sort out what all this meant for the electrons dancing in the superconductor, the researchers enlisted the help of Daniel F. Agterberg, a theorist and professor of physics at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and a co-author of the Science paper. According to the theory, the way uranium and tellurium atoms are arranged inside the UTe2 crystal allows electron couples to team up in eight different dance configurations. Since the specific heat measurement shows that two dances are going on at the same time, Agterberg enumerated all the different ways to pair these eight dances together. The twisted nature of the reflected light and the coercive power of a magnetic field along the up-down axis cut the possibilities down to four. Previous results showing the robustness of UTe2's superconductivity under large magnetic fields further constrained it to only two of those dance pairs, both of which form a vortex and indicate a stormy, topological dance.

"What's interesting is that given the constraints of what we've seen experimentally, our best theory points to a certainty that the superconducting state is topological," says Paglione.

If the nature of superconductivity in a material is topological, the resistance will still go to zero in the bulk of the material, but on the surface something unique will happen: Particles, known as Majorana modes, will appear and form a fluid that is not a superconductor. These particles also remain on the surface despite defects in the material or small disruptions from the environment. Researchers have proposed that, thanks to the unique properties of these particles, they might be a good foundation for quantum computers. Encoding a piece of quantum information into several Majoranas that are far apart makes the information virtually immune to local disturbances that, so far, have been the bane of quantum computers.

Anlage's team wanted to probe the surface of UTe2 more directly to see if they could spot signatures of this Majorana sea. To do that, they sent microwaves towards a chunk UTe2, and measured the microwaves that came out on the other side. They compared the output with and without the sample, which allowed them to test properties of the bulk and the surface simultaneously.

The surface leaves an imprint on the strength of the microwaves, leading to an output that bobs up and down in sync with the input, but slightly subdued. But since the bulk is a superconductor, it offers no resistance to the microwaves and doesn't change their strength. Instead, it slows them down, causing delays that make the output bob up and down out of sync with the input. By looking at the out-of-sync parts of the response, the researchers determined how many of the electrons inside the material participate in the paired dance at various temperatures. They found that the behavior agreed with the circular dances suggested by Paglione's team.

Perhaps more importantly, the in-sync part of the microwave response showed that the surface of UTe2 isn't superconducting. This is unusual, since superconductivity is usually contagious: Putting a regular metal close to a superconductor spreads superconductivity to the metal. But the surface of UTe2 didn't seem to catch superconductivity from the bulk--just as expected for a topological superconductor--and instead responded to the microwaves in a way that hasn't been seen before.

"The surface behaves differently from any superconductor we've ever looked at," Anlage says. "And then the question is 'What's the interpretation of that anomalous result?' And one of the interpretations, which would be consistent with all the other data, is that we have this topologically protected surface state that is kind of like a wrapper around the superconductor that you can't get rid of."

It might be tempting to conclude that the surface of UTe2 is covered with a sea of Majorana modes and declare victory. However, extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence. Anlage and his group have tried to come up with every possible alternative explanation for what they were observing and systematically ruled them out, from oxidization on the surface to light hitting the edges of the sample. Still, it is possible a surprising alternative explanation is yet to be discovered.

"In the back of your head you're always thinking 'Oh, maybe it was cosmic rays', or 'Maybe it was something else,'" says Anlage. "You can never 100% eliminate every other possibility."

For Paglione's part, he says the smoking gun will be nothing short of using surface Majorana modes to perform a quantum computation. However, even if the surface of UTe2 truly has a bunch of Majorana modes, there's currently no straightforward way to isolate and manipulate them. Doing so might be more practical with a thin film of UTe2 instead of the (easier to produce) crystals that were used in these recent experiments.

"We have some proposals to try to make thin films," Paglione says. "Because it's uranium and it's radioactive, it requires some new equipment. The next task would be to actually try to see if we can grow films. And then the next task would be to try to make devices. So that would require several years, but it's not crazy."

Whether UTe2 proves to be the long-awaited topological superconductor or just a pigeon that learned to swim and quack like a duck, both Paglione and Anlage are excited to keep finding out what the material has in store.

"It's pretty clear though that there's a lot of cool physics in the material," Anlage says. "Whether or not it's Majoranas on the surface is certainly a consequential issue, but it's exploring novel physics which is the most exciting stuff."

###

Story by Dina Genkina

Special thanks to Jay Sau, a professor of physics at UMD and a JQI Fellow, for helpful discussions while reporting this story. In addition to Paglione, Kapitulnik, Anlage, Butch and Agterberg, the teams included Seokjin Bae, a former graduate student in physics at UMD who is now a postdoctoral researcher at University of Illinois Urbana-Champagne; Hyunsoo Kim, a former assistant research scientist at UMD who is now an assistant professor of physics and astronomy at Texas Tech University; Yun Suk Eo, a postdoctoral researcher at UMD; Sheng Ran, a former postdoctoral researcher at UMD and NIST who is now an assistant professor of physics at Washington University in St. Louis; I-lin Liu, a postdoctoral researcher at UMD and NIST; Wesley T. Fuhrman, a former research scientist at UMD and NIST; Ian M. Hayes, a postdoctoral researcher at UMD; Di S. Wei, a postdoctoral fellow at Stanford University and the Geballe Laboratory for Advanced Materials; Tristin Metz, a graduate student in physics at UMD; Jian Zhang, a graduate

This story has been published on: 2021-07-15. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Charlotte County, Fla. The Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County (DOH-Charlotte) will be offering vaccines to all eligible Florida residents at multiple locations around Charlotte County.

DOH-Charlotte

1100 Loveland Blvd., Port Charlotte

Moderna

Mon-Thur 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Friday 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

--------

Pfizer - ages 12 to 17

Mon-Fri 2 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Sun Flea Market

18505 Paulson Dr., Port Charlotte

Saturdays 1 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Punta Gorda Airport

28000 Airport Road, Punta Gorda

Mon, Wed, Fri 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Mid County Regional Library

2050 Forrest Nelson Blvd., Port Charlotte

Mon, Wed, Fri 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Tues, Thur 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Hampton Point Apartments

2511 Luther Rd., Punta Gorda

Monday - Friday

10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday - Friday

10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. School House Square

(in front of Cross Fit Warpath)

4300 Kings Hwy., Port Charlotte

Friday, July 16, 2021

11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and

4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.



Walk-ins will be accepted at all locations, while supplies last. DOH-Charlotte will be accepting appointments for the Loveland location. All others are on a walk-in basis only. To make an appointment, call 941-624-7200.

The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine will be administered at all locations. Health Heros will also be on site at the Loveland location to provide the Pfizer vaccine for school age children 12-17, from 2:00 p.m.  5:30 pm.

For more information about COVID-19 vaccine availability, please see our website. http://charlotte.floridahealth.gov/events/2021/01/CharlotteCOVID-19VaccineInfo.html

In some cases, DOH-Charlotte may be able to set up a clinic at your business or organization. To find out if the Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County will come to your location, fill out the form on the website. A representative from the department will reach out to you. http://charlotte.floridahealth.gov/events/2021/04/Schedule_a_COVID-19Vaccine_Clinic_at_Your_Locations.html

Second Doses:

Individuals in need of second dose vaccines are welcome at all locations.

Getting both doses of these vaccines maximizes your ability to receive full immunity.

For more information regarding COVID-19, please visit cdc.gov or floridahealth.gov.

###

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts. Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health, please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

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Newsom Pays the Price for Church Restrictions

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Liberty Counsel

July 15, 2021



LOS ANGELES, July 15, 2021 /Christian Newswire/ -- One year after Liberty Counsel filed the lawsuit on behalf of Harvest Rock Church and Harvest International Ministry against California Gov. Gavin Newsom, the full and final settlement of $1,350,000 was paid today.

On May 17, 2021, the federal district court approved the first state-wide permanent injunction in the country against COVID restrictions on churches and places of worship. Under the state-wide permanent injunction, all California churches may hold worship without discriminatory restrictions. California was ordered to pay $1,350,000 for attorney's fees and costs.

The money will be used by Liberty Counsel to continue litigation on behalf of other churches against COVID restrictions, including a case pending at the Supreme Court. A portion of the payment also will be used to pay off the mortgage on Liberty Counsel's ministry center in Washington, D.C. which hosts many Bible studies and various religious gatherings. Ironically, the payment from California which had the worst COVID restrictions on churches and places of worship, will be used to advance Bible studies and worship in the nation's capital.

Newsom originally imposed the most severe restrictions on churches and even home Bible studies and worship in the nation. Now after multiple reprimands from the U.S. Supreme Court, including two on behalf of Harvest Rock Church and Harvest International Ministry, Gov. Newsom is now the first governor in America to have a permanent injunction against him on behalf of houses of worship.

This case involved three emergency injunctions pending appeal at the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, two oral arguments before a panel of three judges, two orders from the U.S. Supreme Court, including an injunction pending appeal issued by the High Court on February 5, 2021.

The timeline for actions regarding Californias worship restrictions include:

March 19, 2020  May 25, 2020: No Worship



May 26, 2020  July 12, 2020: 25 percent capacity but no more than 100 people



July 13, 2020  April 8, 2021: No worship for over 90 percent of California



April 9, 2021  April 12, 2021: Restrictions on home Bible study lifted but not on singing and chanting



April 13, 2021  May 9, 2021: Mandatory attendance limits are lifted



May 17, 2021  and Forever: Discriminatory restrictions on churches permanently removed

The settlement referenced several Supreme Court opinions, including Harvest Rock Church v. Newsom, that include a long list of similar nonreligious activity the High Court set forth as comparable gatherings. These include grocery stores, warehouses, big box stores, transportation, infrastructure, telecommunications, and much more. In other words, churches and places of worship may never again have discriminatory restrictions placed on them that are not equally applied to a long list of "critical infrastructure" or "essential services" as outlined in several Supreme Court precedents cited in the settlement agreement.

Pastor Che Ahn, founder of Harvest Rock Church and Harvest International Ministry, previously received a letter from the Pasadena Criminal Prosecutor threating him, the staff, and anyone who attends church with daily criminal charges each up to one year in prison, and daily fines of $1,000. Despite this intense opposition, Pastor Ahn stood against these unconstitutional executive orders. He risked criminal charges and fines, as did those who worked for the church and those who attended. Thanks to his leadership, every church in California is now free.

Liberty Counsel Founder and Chairman Mat Staver said, "Governor Gavin Newsom has been permanently quarantined from imposing unconstitutional restrictions on churches and places of worship. It has been a year-long battle, but we are grateful for Pastor Che Ahn, Harvest Rock Church, and Harvest International Ministry. Pastor Ahn's leadership and courage has toppled the tyranny and freed every pastor and church in California. The settlement in this case to help recover attorney's fees and costs only covers a small portion of the enormous expense to defend priceless freedom. How fitting that the worst suppressor of religious worship in the nation ends up funding religious worship in the nation's capital."

Liberty Counsel provides broadcast quality TV interviews via Hi-Def Skype and LTN at no cost.



SOURCE Liberty Counsel



CONTACT: Mat Staver, 407-875-1776, Liberty@LC.org



Related Links



lc.org/


Cambodia suspends entry-exit activities of Vietnamese citizens

The Cambodian Government has decided to temporarily suspend entry and exit activities by workers and experts of Vietnamese companies operating in the country for one month from July 18 in a bid to prevent the spreading of the COVID-19 pandemic.













Checking body temperature in Phnom Penh (Photo: AFP)

Under a notice sent from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia to relevant Vietnamese agencies, the measure will not be applied on patients seeking medical treatment in Vietnam, diplomats and civil servants on a mission at the invitation of the two countries authorities, and students who have completed their courses or are implementing special tasks permitted by the two Governments.



Employees and experts of Vietnamese companies who have already entered Cambodia, even after finishing quarantine duration, are not allowed to return to Vietnam during the suspension time.



The notice clarified that Cambodia appreciates Vietnams understanding on the need to apply this temporary measure, while asking for close coordination between the two sides to promote the transportation of goods through the border with strict observation of pandemic prevention and control regulations of both countries.



Other measures issued earlier will also be effective in parallel with this restriction.
New metro line proposed for Hanoi

The Ministry of Investment and Planning has proposed to the PM a third metro line to deal with congestion in Hanoi.



illustrative image





The Hoang Mai Metro Line will be 8.7km long with an investment of VND40.5trn (USD1.7bn). It will run along Tran Hung Dao-Tran Thanh Tong-Kim Nguu-Tam Trinh. It will have seven underground stops on Hang Bai, Tran Thanh Tong, Kim Nguu, Mai Dong, Tan Mai, Tam Trinh, Yen So.



The construction will be carried out from 2023 to 2028. The cost will come from ODA from Asia Development Bank, KfW Development Bank, and French Development Agency in Vietnam and the reciprocal capital of Hanoi.



Hanoi Peoples Committee will gather opinions from other state agencies, Ministry of Planning and Investment and work with the banks to develop a pre-feasibility study.



The metro will connect the west side of Hanoi with the south and the city centre. It is hoped that the metro will serve 488,000 passengers a day.



Major urban areas in Cau Giay, Ba Dinh, Dong Da and Hoan Kiem and Hoang Mai will be connected together.
The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on July 14 wrapped up its 47th session in Geneva, Switzerland, with 27 resolutions adopted, including one regarding climate change and human rights, which was initiated and compiled by Vietnam together with Bangladesh and the Philippines, focusing on vulnerable groups, especially the disabled and the elderly.

The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on July 14 wrapped up its 47th session in Geneva, Switzerland, with 27 resolutions adopted, including one regarding climate change and human rights, which was initiated and compiled by Vietnam together with Bangladesh and the Philippines, focusing on vulnerable groups, especially the disabled and the elderly.









Since 2014, Vietnam and UN member states have introduced the annual resolutions on climate change and human rights to the UNHRC for adoption, focusing on the rights of children, immigrants and women.





At the 47th session, the Vietnamese delegation delivered speeches at 22 discussions on the right to health care, and the right of the elderly and immigrants amid climate change, gender equality and extreme poverty reduction following the COVID-19 pandemic.









Ambassador Le Thi Tuyet Mai





Ambassador Le Thi Tuyet Mai, head of Vietnams Permanent Mission to the UN, the World Trade Organisation and other international organisations in Geneva, highlighted the country's achievements in promoting and protecting human rights.





She affirmed that Vietnam supports the UNs human rights mechanisms as well as practical and constructive dialogues on the issue.





Mai called on countries to step up COVID-19 vaccine production, ensure timely and fair access to vaccines to effectively deal with the pandemic and foster inclusive and sustainable recovery.





Representatives from Vietnam and ASEAN member states also delivered several joint speeches on topics such as response to the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change and human rights, prevention of violence against women, technical cooperation to promote the right to education and ensure fair and inclusive education and life-long study for all citizens.





The Vietnamese delegation actively took part in building the contents of the documents and co-sponsored initiatives in the spirit of dialogue and cooperation, ensuring that the UNHRCs activities are in line with basic principles of international law.





The session took place from June 22 to July 14 in both online and in-person forms.




New snake species found in northwest China's Qinling Mountains

Xinhua) 16:32, July 14, 2021

XI'AN, July 14 (Xinhua) -- A new species of the genus Elaphe was discovered by a research team mainly composed of Chinese scientists in Qinling Mountains, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, said an institute under the Chinese Academy of Sciences on Wednesday.

Based on combined morphological and osteological characters and molecular phylogenetics, scientists described the new snake species that was named Elaphe xiphodonta.

According to the discoverers, they collected the new colubrid species from the south slope of the Qinling Mountains, which looks quite different from any of the known species but the Protobothrops jerdonii.

Detailed morphological examinations and further molecular analyses revealed that the species represents a separately evolving lineage within the genus Elaphe and can be distinguished from all congeners by morphological characters, said the scientists.

Shi Jingsong, with the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, said the new species may be able to avoid predation by mimicking the pit-viper -- Protobothrops jerdonii -- explaining why scientists earlier overlooked the species.

The specimens of Elaphe xiphodonta are now stored in the institute and the Guangzhou-based Sun Yat-sen University.

The result has been published in a recent research article in the journal ZooKeys.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Hongyu)
Chinas summer grain output to hit record high

People's Daily Online) 16:51, July 14, 2021

China reaped another bumper summer harvest, with about 335 million mu (22.3 million hectares) of wheat reaped this year, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA). The ministry also estimated that the summer grain yield is expected to increase by 3 kg per mu (one mu is about 667 square meters) and that grain output will hit a record high.

Aerial photo taken on June 6, 2021 shows wheat-reaping harvesters at work in Zhoukou, central China's Henan Province. (Xinhua/Li Jianan)

This success lays a solid foundation for meeting the target of keeping the annual grain output above 650 million tons. To achieve this goal, governments at various levels have given farmers a great deal of policy support to incentivize them.

In Hunan province, a major grain production base in central China, 37 counties have joined a pilot program under which rice growers are provided farm insurance to fend off risks and stabilize income from rice production.

In Fuding, a city in east Chinas Fujian province, farmers are granted an allowance of 200 yuan per mu of land as long as they plant more than 30 mu of crops, and will also receive subsidies during the crop sales season.

From 2016 to 2020, China allocated a total of 217 billion yuan to incentivize farmers to grow crops. In 2021, the country implemented the responsibility mechanism under which both the government and the Party take on the role of guaranteeing grain safety.

The country has worked to construct high-standard farmland so as to increase grain output. According to Wu Hongwei, an inspector with the Department of Farmland Enhancement under MARA, by the end of 2020, the country had built 800 million mu of high-standard farmland, which accounted for nearly 40 percent of the countrys total farmland. The yield per mu of land has been raised by 10 percent to 20 percent.

Deng Zhong is a farmer from southwest Chinas Chongqing Municipality who upgraded his farmland to high-standard by installing insecticidal lamps, cameras, and sensors to help the crops grow better.

After re-organizing the farmland, I made sure that each piece of farmland covers no less than 5 mu so that machinery could be used for crop reaping, said Deng, adding that the rice produced by the high-standard farmland sells for 0.12 yuan per kg more than the rice grown on standard land.

In recent years, the level of agricultural mechanization in China has been continuously improved. The production of three staple crops - wheat, rice and corn - is now mainly carried out with farming machines.

Between 2016 and 2020, the country issued a total of 95.8 billion yuan in funds to subsidize farmers to buy farming machines, boosting the mechanization process of the agricultural industry.

This summer, a total of 16.5 million machines have been used to ensure a smooth summer harvest and disposal of crop straws.

Chinas farming sector has also gone high-tech. Last year, the contribution rate of science and technology advances in agriculture topped 60 percent.

The application of agricultural technologies, including scientific fertilization, water-saving irrigation, and unified prevention and control of crop pests and diseases has significantly improved agricultural production efficiency, said Wei Qiwen, director of the National Agro-Tech Extension and Service Center.

North Chinas Tianjin Municipality plans to encourage the use of organic fertilizers on 1 million mu of rice fields, and after it does so, the total production of rice will increase by 30,000 tons.

After we started to use organic fertilizers on our rice fields last year, the price of our rice per kg increased by 6 yuan, said Cui Fenghong, a farmer from Tianjin.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
US causes turmoil through controlling narrative, inciting hatred

17:57, July 14, 2021 By Cui Yue ( People's Daily Online

The US portrays itself as the beacon of freedom and democracy, talks keenly of press freedom and points fingers at other countries. But do these so-called free media outlets really enjoy press freedom?

(Cartoon by Lu Lingxing)

The truth is that Western media only serves the interests of its patrons under the guise of democracy and freedom.

The US government has bribed the media, controlled the narrative, manipulated public opinion and messed up other countries. It blatantly instructed the media to publish fake news about Iraq and Syria to prepare the ground for launching wars. It incited street protests in countries such as Iran, Iraq and Lebanon and caused turmoil there by taking advantage of social media.

These examples are only the tip of the iceberg of how the US controls the media. In essence, the so-called free media is just the mouthpiece of the bigwigs. After all, there can be no real and effective freedom in a society based on the power of money.

Related:

US wages illegal wars, disturbs international order

US wields sanctions to bully other countries

Americas double standards aggravate humanitarian crisis

US interference in other countries' internal affairs aggravates chaos in Middle East

US prisoner abuse scandals expose hypocrisy of human rights defender claim

Hyping of religious discrimination exposes hegemonic nature of US

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
Biden's escalation of economic decoupling over Xinjiang and Hong Kong a repeat of Trump tactics, US companies to be hurt

Global Times) 08:05, July 15, 2021

The US has escalated its economic roundup of Chinese companies in Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, urging US companies to stay out of the Xinjiang supply chain in a federal government warning. The US government is reportedly also mulling placing a warning of operational risks in Hong Kong this week, where the US has tremendous business interests.

The Biden administration's attempt, using human rights issue as an excuse, to return to a decoupling track is thinly veiled, which will end up hurting the interests of US companies, Chinese international affairs experts and industry insiders said on Wednesday.

By clinging on and further hyping up a lie made up by previous US administration, Biden's warning is like a continuation of Trumpism without Trump, Chinese experts noted. By implicitly hinting of a supply chain decoupling, analysts said the move showed the previous human rights card is ineffective and the Biden administration has to return to the old path of decoupling with a human rights banner.

Several US federal departments on Tuesday issued a government advisory, warning US companies of the risks of being a part of the supply chain with the Chinese region over the so-called "forced labor" issue. Another warning is reportedly to be issued on Hong Kong.

The warning includes a list that went to great lengths to specifically name 20 Xinjiang industries from cotton and melon to wig and toys that US companies should stay clear of, even though the warning itself admitted that listing "does not confirm that all goods produced in these industries in Xinjiang involves forced labor."

Among the US motivation to block local economic and human rights development and stir up chaos in China's Xinjiang and Hong Kong, cracking down on Chinese competitors to US companies is also one of the US government's malicious aims, Chinese analysts noted.

Compared with the Trump administration, Biden has gone further on launching political battle together with the decoupling strategies against China under the excuse of human rights, Lu Xiang, a research fellow at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences in Beijing, told the Global Times on Wednesday, noting the US moves will severely undermine bilateral cooperation on climate change and finance.

The warning to US companies in Hong Kong also does not tally with the facts - after the enactment of the national security law for Hong Kong for the past year, the city has restored to stability and prosperity with foreign companies happy with the business environment, Lu said, noting that the warning looks more like the US' last try when all other tricks to disturb the region have been exhausted.

From Trump's trade war to Biden's political war and other aggressive provocations, the US has gone further astray on policies toward China, which brought more uncertainty to bilateral ties, Lu said, adding that China should be alert that the Biden administration's chariot may not stop once it starts.

"After Biden took office, his political performance has been mediocre and lacking results. That's when he eagerly picked up the anti-China card in order to rally some popularity and respond to the criticism of the pro-Trump camp," Tian Feilong, an associate professor at Beihang University's law faculty, told the Global Times on Wednesday.

"In the US, as long as politicians play the anti-China card, they can get a boost. Biden knows this well," Tian said.

Photo taken on May 28, 2021 shows the U.S. Capitol building behind traffic lights in Washington, D.C., the United States. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

US companies to be hurt

Chinese industry insiders and experts said the Biden administration will harm the interests of US companies by forcing them to draw a line, and this will open the stage for Chinese countermoves including the first use of China's entity list to punish unreliable supply chain partners.

Some foreign companies blindly following the US fabricated "forced labor" lie over Xinjiang cotton have paid a price as Chinese consumers moved to boycott their products, as was the case faced by Swedish apparel manufacturer H&M and American and German sportswear manufacturers Nike and Adidas.

H&M saw its sales down by 23 percent in China in local currencies from March to May, Reuters reported.

US sanctions on Xinjiang's photovoltaic industries would set hurdles to the imports of related products, affecting the global and the US development of renewable energy, Lu said. "The result? The Biden administration's promises on climate change would be stalled."

Tuesday's advisory by the US drew scorn from Chinese business communities.

On Wednesday, four polysilicon manufacturers in Xinjiang issued a joint statement in protest against the US' baseless accusation of "forced labor." "[The US government] seriously violated the development right of our companies and labor right of our employees, which is the typical 'forced unemployment' and 'forced poverty,'" the four companies said.

He Ning, director of investor relations at polysilicon producer Xinjiang Daqo which was put on the US entity list, told the Global Times on Wednesday that the company refuses to do a supply chain review to fit in with the US government's requirements as it has neither sold any products directly to US companies nor purchased any US products.

"So far, none of our clients asked us to do such supply chain review work," He said, adding that US companies cannot find substitutes within the short term if they do not buy Chinese solar panels.

The harm to the US will be way larger than the loss of Chinese companies when the US cracks down on Chinese solar products, veteran industry observers agreed as it would take the US a long time and a lot of money to develop industrial supporting ability in the solar energy sector.

Xinjiang accounts for around half of the world's polysilicon capacity - a raw material for solar panels.

Yi Jing, deputy general manager of Siwei Textile from Awati County, Aksu Prefecture of Xinjiang, told the Global Times that the company's sales have not been impacted by the US government hit. Instead, it inspired Chinese people's patriotic enthusiasm to support Xinjiang cotton.

"What the US companies lost is the huge Chinese market if they ban cotton products made in Xinjiang One in every five 100 percent cotton products worldwide comes from Xinjiang.

China for sure is capable to dominate the global textile industry," Yi said.

The manager proposed tit-for-tat countermeasures including a ban on imports of US cotton and other US products.

Lu warned that if the Biden administration is crazy enough to take one step further - to upgrade the warning to concrete sanctions or orders to US companies, all foreign companies - from the US and EU, will suffer more since they still regard Hong Kong as the significant gateway to enter the market in the Chinese mainland and other Southeast Asian countries.

A US action covering Hong Kong will harm the investments and transaction relationships of US companies in the city, and a strong boycott to some US companies is to be expected, Tian warned.

"US interests in Hong Kong are sizable as it has a large amount of US investment," the professor said, citing that more than 1,200 US companies operate in Hong Kong to cover their businesses in the Asia-Pacific region, so the crackdown will harm the global layout of these US companies and their regional competitiveness.

The US move will wipe out the $30 billion trade surplus with Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, he added.

"Following Trump's path is very stupid for the Biden administration as it harms others without benefiting itself," Tian said.

In Trump's infamous trade war with China, US companies ended up suffering economic losses and US trade deficits to China were by no means reduced.

Craig Allen, president of the US-China Business Council, in June published an article in Politico titled "US-China trade dispute harms Americans" and cited Moody's Analytics suggesting that American companies had shouldered more than 90 percent of the costs of US tariffs on Chinese goods.

In response to the US' Tuesday move, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian told the routine press conference on Wednesday that the US is repeating cliched lies over China's Xinjiang and each time it only exposes its hypocrisy on human rights issues and its nature of hegemony, citing its own stained human rights record.

Chinese countermeasures

Zhou Shijian, a senior research fellow at the Center for US-China Relations at Tsinghua University, suggested China's unreliable entity list could be used as part of a retaliation tool.

"For instance, China could ban its supply of silicon, an indispensible material used in the solar industry, to certain US companies in retaliation," Zhou told the Global Times on Wednesday.

Some experts doubt whether US companies will actually heed Biden administration's warning.

Liang Haiming, chairman of the China Silk Road iValley Research Institute told the Global Times that he suspects the warnings are more symbolic than real and the government cannot prevent US investors who are willing to invest in Hong Kong.

A recent job expansion program revealed by Citibank and Goldman Sachs shows that US investors have a rather different understanding of the risks of investing in Hong Kong than the US government.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
China urges deepening global development partnership

Xinhua) 09:21, July 15, 2021

BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) -- China on Wednesday vowed to work with all parties to deepen global development partnership and open up new prospects in international development cooperation.

The remarks were made by Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the Second Voluntary National Review on Implementation of the United Nations (UN) 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development at a high-level forum of the UN Economic and Social Council.

Wang said China follows a new development philosophy featuring innovative, coordinated, green, and open development for all. It is highly consistent with the 2030 Agenda's five critical dimensions, contributing China's wisdom and solution to the cause of global development.

As for China's main development efforts and achievements, Wang said China has always taken development as the first priority, adopted a people-centered philosophy, put into practice the belief in the harmony between man and nature, embraced the trend of openness and win-win cooperation of the times, and pursued common development with all countries.

Noting the world is under the severe impact of the pandemic, Wang called on all countries to join hands and take more concrete steps to inject fresh momentum into the global development process.

He urged all sides to prioritize development and be the practitioner of the Sustainable Development Goals, respect each other's development paths and be the defender of a fair and just international order, foster a development environment of inclusiveness and coordination and be the builder of an open world economy, highlight innovation-driven growth and be a pioneer in high-quality development, and jointly tackle global challenges and be a contributor to a bright future for humanity.

China is willing to join hands with all parties to deepen the global development partnership, open up new prospects in international development cooperation, and build a community with a shared future for humanity, added Wang.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Guided-missile frigates leave for far-sea training

China Military Online) 09:22, July 15, 2021

A ship-borne helicopter attached to the navy under the PLA Southern Theater Command coordinates with the guided-missile frigates during a recent realistic far-sea training exercise. The training exercise mainly focused on such subjects as live-fire, air-defense, anti-missile, and replenishment-at-sea. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Xue Chengqing)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
China criticizes U.S. for spouting same old lies about Xinjiang

Xinhua) 09:29, July 15, 2021

BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) -- China on Wednesday criticized the United States for repeatedly fabricating lies on Xinjiang, which "lays bare its hypocrisy and hegemony on human rights."

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian made the remarks at a press briefing when answering a question about the U.S. government's "updated Xinjiang Supply Chain Business Advisory."

"The U.S. has been spouting the same old lies in the Xinjiang-related reports it issued one after another. The repetition of lies just lays bare its hypocrisy and hegemony on human rights," Zhao said.

"Speaking of genocide, crimes against humanity and forced labor, I would like to ask you a question. Why can the US always come up with these unfounded charges against other countries? The simple answer is that they are the sins the US once committed," he added.

The US side should know that no matter how hard it tries to fabricate lies on Xinjiang, their sinister plot of containing China by using Xinjiang as an excuse is doomed to fail, he said.

"For the U.S., the right way forward is to reflect on itself, avoid going down the wrong path further and earnestly face up to and address its own problems," Zhao said.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Science essential to determine COVID-19 origins: U.S. scholar

Xinhua) 09:59, July 15, 2021

People tour the National Mall in Washington D.C., the United States, on March 13, 2021. (Photo by Ting Shen/Xinhua)

"We believe the strongest clue from new, credible, and peer-reviewed evidence in the scientific literature is that the virus evolved in nature, while suggestions of a laboratory-leak source of the pandemic remain without scientifically validated evidence that directly supports it in peer-reviewed scientific journals," said a U.S. scholar.

NEW YORK, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Science, not speculation, is essential to determine how COVID-19 reached humans, and relying on espionage agents only replaces science with politics, a U.S. scholar has said earlier this week.

John Richard Schrock, former chairman of the biology department at the Emporia State University, made the comments while echoing a joint statement of 24 international scientists, which was published on the premier medical journal The Lancet on July 5 to refute the widespread lab-leak theory.

"We believe the strongest clue from new, credible, and peer-reviewed evidence in the scientific literature is that the virus evolved in nature, while suggestions of a laboratory-leak source of the pandemic remain without scientifically validated evidence that directly supports it in peer-reviewed scientific journals," the scholar quoted the statement as saying.

"The claim of a torpedo attack in the second Gulf of Tonkin incident led to an escalation of the Vietnam War -- but there was no torpedo attack," said Schrock in his article published on the Salina Post, a local newspaper in the U.S. Midwestern state of Kansas, on Monday.

"'Intelligence' that (the fifth president of Iraq) Saddam Hussein was harboring weapons of mass destruction (nuclear and chemical weapons) was used to justify the Iraq war -- but there were no such weapons," said Schrock, also editor of the Kansas School Naturalist at the Emporia State University, who used to teach various classes at universities in China.

"Science is far more reliable. But science takes time," he added.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Commentary: Slanders and bias behind DPP authority's "vaccine blocking" lies

Xinhua) 10:16, July 15, 2021

BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) -- A recent deal between Taiwan and mainland firms on purchases of BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines has given hope to the island's epidemic control.

However, Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authority and some Western media portrayed it as a move breaking through the so-called "mainland's blocking," completely disregarding the fact that the mainland has expressed willingness to help since the very onset of the island's serious outbreak in May.

The mainland offered to provide mainland-made vaccines recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and promised to support Taiwan people in using BioNTech vaccines, which Shanghai-based Fosun Pharma participated in the development and commercialized in China.

The mainland also showed its sincerity by offering to dispatch epidemic control experts to Taiwan.

Unfortunately, the DPP authority repeatedly rejected the goodwill.

On one hand, the DPP authority claimed that the mainland "blocked Taiwan's deal" of buying vaccines. On the other hand, it spared no effort in obstructing Taiwan people from obtaining vaccines from the mainland.

Fosun Pharma has been licensed by BioNTech to exclusively develop and commercialize COVID-19 vaccines based on its mRNA technology platform in the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Macao Special Administrative Region and Taiwan region.

The DPP authority, however, insisted on circumventing Fosun to buy vaccines from the German firm, which violated business rules and served nothing but political interests.

The irony is that Taiwan's epidemic monitoring agency chief Chen Shih-chung has recently changed his tone. Chen admitted that Taiwan is within the scope of Fosun's exclusive rights to sell BioNTech vaccines and the deal deserves due respect.

If the DPP authority had stopped political interference last October, Taiwan enterprises would have been authorized through negotiation to distribute 30 million doses of BioNTech vaccines. Vaccination might have begun early this year, saving many lives. It was only the DPP to blame.

There are many other WHO-approved vaccines available on the market, such as the ones developed by AstraZeneca, Johnson &Johnson and Moderna, but the DPP did not work actively in vaccine procurement until it was too late.

Yet, it decided to shift the blame on the mainland.

Driven by their ideological bias, some Western media have ignored these obvious facts.

However, the failure of epidemic control cannot be covered up by lies and the people cannot be fooled by rumors.

The DPP authority should immediately stop gambling on the lives and health of Taiwan people, and make concrete efforts instead to safeguard the health and wellbeing of Taiwan compatriots.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
China will continue supporting Pacific island countries in COVID-19 fight: FM spokesperson

Xinhua) 10:22, July 15, 2021

BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) -- China will continue to provide support within its capacity to Pacific island countries in need so that they can ultimately prevail over the pandemic, said a Foreign Ministry spokesperson on Wednesday.

Spokesperson Zhao Lijian made the remarks during a daily news briefing when asked to comment on a report that Papua New Guinea (PNG) had announced a rollout of the Chinese-made Sinopharm vaccine in an effort to further contain the spread of COVID-19 in the Pacific island country.

The announcement came after donations of Sinopharm vaccines arrived in PNG in late June. A ceremony was held Tuesday at Port Moresby General Hospital in the capital city of Port Moresby, where PNG government officials received vaccine jabs on site.

The PNG side said at the ceremony that the Chinese vaccine's safety and effectiveness have been fully tested and thanked the Chinese side for providing the PNG people with a new option in their fight against the pandemic, said Zhao.

Zhao said that PNG is the third Pacific island country to roll out a Chinese vaccine on a nationwide basis, after the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, and noted that this is a concrete manifestation of China's firm commitment to making vaccines global public goods in Pacific island countries. He also said it was a practical action from China to promote the construction of a community of common health for mankind.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Highland vegetable businesses boost rural income growth in Gansu

Xinhua) 10:34, July 15, 2021

Aerial photo taken on July 13, 2021 shows terraced fields where highland vegetables are cultivated in Anding District of Dingxi, northwest China's Gansu Province. Taking advantage of the cool summer climate in Dingxi, a plateau city in northwest China, local farmers have been encouraged to plant more than 20 varieties of highland vegetables. By successfully selling these vegetables to the country's coastal provinces, the local highland vegetable businesses have proven a key industry that boosts rural income growth. (Xinhua/Ma Xiping)

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Chinese FM offers proposal on future development of SCO

Xinhua) 10:47, July 15, 2021

DUSHANBE, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi put forward a five-point proposal here on Wednesday on the healthy and stable development of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in the future.

The SCO members should pursue solidarity and coordination, and further cement the political foundation for cooperation, Wang said during a meeting of the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers.

He suggested that the countries should share the responsibility for security and ensure long-lasting peace and order in the region.

The SCO members should cooperate in combating the COVID-19 pandemic and safeguarding people's well-being, Wang added.

The countries should also open wider and raise the level of interconnection so as to steadily boost economic recovery, the top Chinese diplomat noted.

The SCO members should follow the trend of the times and build a community with a shared future, Wang said.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Commentary: Xinjiang's progress in human rights smashes lies, rumors

Xinhua) 10:50, July 15, 2021

Locals dance to welcome tourists in Awat Township of Korla City, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, April 10, 2021. (Xinhua/Zhao Ge)

BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Despite repeated slanders by certain delusional foreign media and politicians, people in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region are enjoying unprecedented human rights progress.

Some foreign politicians and anti-China forces have been spreading rumors and peddling completely fabricated claims about Xinjiang, most notably the "genocide" and "forced labor" accusations.

Their despicable acts are part of an orchestrated campaign to undermine China's enormous efforts to protect ethnic equality, discredit China, interfere in its internal affairs, restrict China's development, and destroy stability and prosperity in Xinjiang, said a white paper titled "Respecting and Protecting the Rights of All Ethnic Groups in Xinjiang," released by the State Council Information Office on Wednesday.

The rumors and lies misrepresent the historic progress that has been made on human rights in Xinjiang over the past more than 70 years. Such slanderous attempts to mislead the international community are doomed to fail. The achievements in Xinjiang and an ever-growing sense of gain, security and happiness among the local population from all ethnic groups are enough to smash the orchestrated smear campaigns against Xinjiang.

The ethnic groups in Xinjiang work together in unity to achieve collective development and prosperity. The civil, political, economic, social, cultural rights as well as the rights of women and children and freedom of religious belief are effectively guaranteed in the region according to law.

Facts and figures speak volumes about the steady progress in human rights in Xinjiang.

A conspicuous fact is that for more than four years since the end of 2016, there has been no terrorist incident in Xinjiang, thanks to the stringent counter-terrorism measures and efforts to curb extremism. Thus, the autonomous region has been able to fully protect the right to life of people of all ethnic groups.

Other tangible outcomes benefitting the locals include the elimination of absolute poverty and moderate prosperity achieved in all respects. Almost all those with the ability to work have been provided with jobs, with workers' job preferences fully respected, and structured conditions created for people to find jobs locally. The region has established a social security system covering the entire local population.

The so-called genocide is nothing more than a horrific label used by certain politicians to antagonize China, which can never be substantiated by facts. The "forced labor" accusation stems from deep prejudice and hostility toward China.

Take the cotton industry for example. Contrary to the false narrative of "forced labor," the industry has realized large-scale automated plucking. With machines to help with the cotton plantation, why would there be any need for "forced labor?"

The Chinese government actively fulfills its obligations under the international human rights conventions, to which China is a signatory. It makes full use of its institutional strengths, pools the efforts of all sectors of society, and promotes the rapid development of all undertakings in Xinjiang. China should by no means be subject to groundless accusations.

From 1955 to 2020, Xinjiang's GDP and per capita GDP, respectively, increased by about 160 times and 30 times at constant prices to reach 1.4 trillion yuan (216.2 billion U.S. dollars) and 53,593 yuan. From 1978 to 2020, the per capita disposable income of both urban and rural residents saw an increase of over 100 times.

Xinjiang is now a stable and orderly society, where the local ethnic groups live in mutual harmony and peace, with their rights fully respected and protected.

The region, which is experiencing an optimal period of development, will in no way be disturbed by certain ill-intentioned foreign politicians and anti-China forces.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Annual book fest in Hong Kong opens after one-year delay

Xinhua) 11:03, July 15, 2021

Photo taken on July 14, 2021 shows the books exhibited on the 31st Hong Kong Book Fair in Hong Kong, south China. The 31st Hong Kong Book Fair, which was postponed for a year due to COVID-19, opened here Wednesday when more than 700 exhibitors showcased a wide range of books and literary products. Organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the largest annual literary event in the financial hub was themed Inspirational and Motivational Reading this year, with a tagline "Reading the World - Inspiring the Mind and Refreshing the Soul". (Xinhua/Wu Xiaochu)

HONG KONG, July 14 (Xinhua) -- The 31st Hong Kong Book Fair, which was postponed for a year due to COVID-19, opened here Wednesday when more than 700 exhibitors showcased a wide range of books and literary products.

Organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the largest annual literary event in the financial hub was themed Inspirational and Motivational Reading this year, with a tagline "Reading the World - Inspiring the Mind and Refreshing the Soul".

Carrie Lam, chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, officiated at the opening ceremony, saying that reading could promote positive energy and was a good way to reduce stress, especially in the post-epidemic period.

Although the first day of this year's book fair was not as crowded as in previous years, people's enthusiasm for buying books was not dampened.

"My sons are having summer holidays, which, I think, it's a good time to cultivate their interests in reading," said Candy Tong, who went to the book fair with her two primary school kids.

Fai Lo, in his sixties, bought some Chinese storybooks at the fair for his 10-year-old granddaughter, hoping to raise her reading ability. He told the reporter that the fair always offered a better deal.

The week-long event was more than just a trading platform, it also presented a wide array of cultural activities online and offline. Renowned authors from around the world were invited to share their writing experiences, for instance.

There were different exhibitions at the book fair, including one that introduced some inspirational local authors and their selected works, and another one showcased portraits, photographs and stamps of Bruce Lee to pay tribute to the international martial art movie star.

To reduce the risk of the epidemic, a number of preventive measures were taken by the organizer, such as all exhibitors and staff members were required to be fully vaccinated or provide proof of negative COVID-19 testing results.

The Hong Kong Book Fair celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2019, attracting about 980,000 visitors.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
China's elderly embrace big tech, senior-friendly products

People's Daily Online) 11:03, July 15, 2021

China is witnessing mushrooming growth in products that integrate new technologies and mechanisms tailored for senior citizens, so as to enable this group of consumers to better enjoy the benefits brought by the digital age.

A patient eats by mind-controlling the robotic arm in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province, Jan. 9, 2020. (Photo/Xinhua)

The number of people aged 60 and above exceeds 260 million, accounting for 18.7 percent of the total population, according to the results of the Seventh National Population Census. This large group of consumers has fueled the manufacturing of a large number of high-tech products for the elderly.

These high-tech products include nursing robots and smart care systems among others, which recently made an appearance at an expo held in Shanghai.

Nursing robots, which are comprised of diaper pants, two pipes, induction lines and processors, are particularly handy for disabled elderly people suffering from incontinence. When an elderly man urinates or defecates, the instrument automatically detects the process, immediately extracts the excreta and stores it in a dirt bucket. Then the warm water washing and warm air drying functions are activated. The whole process runs intelligently and automatically, and no nurses are required to intervene or operate the system.

Meanwhile, smart care systems, which use laser radar, cloud computing and big data technology to automatically detect and raise alarms for dangerous actions among the elderly, such as falling down, are designed to provide better health guarantees for elderly people who live alone.

In addition to the emergence of these senior-friendly products, many senior versions of mobile applications (APPs) have been launched, as it is not difficult to notice that a growing number of elderly people are surfing the Internet these days. The latest statistical report on the development of China's Internet released by the China Internet Network Information Center indicated that 11.2 percent of Chinese netizens are aged 60 and above.

"The font is big enough and this APP is easy to use," said an elderly woman surnamed Liu when using mobile banking for the first time under the guidance of staff at a branch office of the Bank of Communications.

In the "special care version" of the Bank of Communications APP that Liu was using, the home page has been streamlined to contain just a few icons, retaining only the business entrances commonly used by the elderly, such as "account inquiry", "money transfer" and "financial management".

With regard to products catering to the needs of senior citizens, Zhu Qinhao, director-general of the Shanghai Civil Affairs Bureau, pointed out that they should pay more attention to the application scenarios of science and technology, lay more emphasis on the service experience for the elderly, and make new technologies more suitable for senior citizens.

Dang Junwu, deputy director of the China Research Center on Aging, believes that while the elderly are slow to accept new technologies, once they form consumption habits, they have strong user stickiness.

"The integrated development of the Internet economy and the aging economy will certainly bring about many new business opportunities," said Dang.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
12 people including 9 Chinese nationals killed in blast in NW Pakistan

Xinhua) 12:48, July 15, 2021

ISLAMABAD, July 14 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Embassy in Pakistan strongly condemned a blast that happened Wednesday morning in Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, leaving nine Chinese nationals and three Pakistanis dead.

At around 7:00 a.m. local time, the shuttle vehicles of the Dasu Hydropower Project for which a Chinese company was contracted to build, were hit by a blast when they were heading towards the construction site, the embassy said in a statement, adding that the Pakistani side is investigating into the incident.

After the blast, the embassy immediately activated the emergency response plan, and contacted the Pakistani military and Pakistani government departments including the foreign ministry and interior ministry, asking the Pakistani side to conduct the rescue and treatment work at all costs, enhance the security guarantee for the Chinese institutions, projects and personnel in Pakistan, and find out the truth of the incident as soon as possible, according to the statement.

The Pakistani military organized and started the rescue work immediately after the blast and dispatched helicopters to transfer the injured, the statement added.

The embassy expressed deep condolences to the dead and sincere sympathy to the injured in the blast, according to the statement.

Pakistani officials said the blast happened in the Upper Kohistan district of the province, and over 30 were injured in the incident.

Assistant Commissioner of Dasu area of the district, Asim Abbasi told Xinhua that the death toll might further rise because several of the injured were in critical condition.

Deputy Commissioner of the district Muhammad Arif told media that the seriously injured have been airlifted to hospitals with better facilities in the province, adding that the security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a search operation.

No group or individual has claimed the blast yet.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Former Chinese university deputy head arrested for suspected bribery

Xinhua) 13:42, July 15, 2021

BEIJING, July 15 (Xinhua) -- The People's Procuratorate of Liaoning Province has ordered the arrest of Yu Zhigang, former vice president of China University of Political Science and Law, for suspected bribe-taking.

Yu's case was transferred to procuratorial authorities for review and prosecution following the conclusion of an investigation by the National Supervisory Commission, the Supreme People's Procuratorate said in a statement on Thursday.

Further handling of the case is underway.

Yu has been expelled from the Communist Party of China and removed from public office over serious violations of Party discipline and laws.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
China to help Afghanistan beat pandemic: Chinese FM

Xinhua) 13:48, July 15, 2021

DUSHANBE, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said here on Wednesday that the Chinese side will continue to provide anti-epidemic support including vaccines to Afghanistan until the country beats the outbreak.

Wang made the remarks during his meeting with Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar.

Noting that China and Afghanistan are friendly neighbors linked by mountains and rivers, Wang said that the Chinese side attaches great importance to the China-Afghanistan strategic cooperative partnership, and is willing to work with the country to prepare for high-level contacts between the two countries and send a positive and peaceful signal to the outside world.

Wang added that he hoped the Afghan government will ensure the safety and security of Chinese personnel and institutions in Afghanistan.

Wang said that the hasty exit of U.S. and NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) troops from Afghanistan has led to escalating tensions and expanding war in Afghanistan, and the settlement of the Afghan issue has arrived at a crossroads.

The Chinese side supports the establishment of a broad and inclusive political structure in Afghanistan through dialogue and consultation based on the "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned" principle, he said.

Wang reaffirmed China's support for Afghanistan in becoming an independent, autonomous and neutral country that pursues a moderate Muslim policy.

He said Beijing backs Afghanistan in its fight against all forms of terrorism and in getting along well with all neighboring countries.

Wang also said that the urgent task is to avoid a civil war, restart the intra-Afghan negotiations, and seek a political reconciliation plan, especially to prevent various terrorist forces from growing stronger by taking advantage of the situation in Afghanistan.

Afghanistan should not become a place for terrorists to gather again, he added.

Noting that all ethnic groups and factions are members of the big Afghan family, Wang said they should shoulder the responsibility to build peace, and hopes that the Afghan government will strengthen its confidence in peace talks and create necessary conditions for the reconciliation and reconstruction in Afghanistan.

Wang also urged the Taliban to make a clean break with all terrorist forces.

Stressing that China has never interfered in Afghanistan's internal affairs and harbors no geopolitical considerations, Wang said the Chinese side will continue to respect Afghanistan's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity and believes that the Afghan people are capable of governing their own country well.

He added that the Chinese side is ready to facilitate the holding of intra-Afghan talks in China and contribute to the political settlement of the Afghan issue.

For his part, Atmar warmly congratulated the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, saying that China is a good friend and neighbor of Afghanistan, and his country looks forward to a new level of cooperation with China in such areas as politics, economy and security.

The Afghan side fully agrees with China's position on the Afghan issue, and expects stronger cooperation with China within bilateral and multilateral frameworks to promote a political solution to the Afghan issue, he said.

He also said that the Afghan side is ready to strengthen security cooperation with China, and crack down on terrorist groups such as the East Turkestan Islamic Movement, adding that his country will never allow any terrorist organization to do anything harmful to China in Afghanistan.

Atmar expressed his appreciation for China's support for Afghanistan's fight against the COVID-19 epidemic, saying that the Afghan government will do its utmost to ensure the safety and security of Chinese personnel and institutions in Afghanistan.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
U.S. freedom more rebellious with focus on individual desires: Chinese reporter

Xinhua) 13:52, July 15, 2021

A sign of face mask requirements is seen at a movie theater in New York, the United States, March 5, 2021. (Xinhua/Michael Nagle)

"We cannot, in the guise of 'universal values,' judge something against our own standards, regardless of others' intrinsic features," a Chinese reporter said.

WASHINGTON, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Freedom in the United States is more rebellious, focuses on individual desires, and is based on human weaknesses, while China's freedom is more philosophical, focuses on social connections and is based on human decency, a Chinese reporter has said recently.

"Both Chinese and Americans value freedom, but both have their own definition of what it means," noted Xu Ruyi from China.org.cn in an interview with PR Newswire, a distributor of press releases headquartered in New York City.

"We cannot, in the guise of 'universal values,' judge something against our own standards, regardless of others' intrinsic features," she stressed.

To elaborate on the issue, Xu gave three perspectives according to her own research.

"First, freedom or liberty in America originated from struggles and battles against colonialism and slavery for example," she said.

A man wearing a face mask walks past the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., the United States, Jan. 24, 2021. (Photo by Aaron Schwartz/Xinhua)

She took U.S. protests against face mask wearing as an example, saying that those involved are actually protesting against interference in individual freedom by the government.

Secondly, Americans put individual freedom and rights first. They do help each other, they do work hard; but individuals come first, she noted, adding that it's simply not possible to talk about freedom without considering the group a person belongs to in China.

"If I choose not to wear a face mask during the pandemic, I will alarm the people around me, and if I get infected, I may infect others and add to the medical burden," she said. "In this case, I would rather sacrifice some of my own freedom to protect the greater freedom of others."

Last but not least, Americans believe humans are born sinners while Chinese believe in natural kindness, and that's why Americans are skeptical of the intentions and motives of others, Xu pointed out.

"When there is a requirement for face masks, an American will probably question first whether it represents an intrusion of his or her freedom, while the first thing that comes to a Chinese mind is more likely to be: This must be a scientific way to protect me," she explained.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
China's self-developed drugs become highly sought after overseas

People's Daily Online) 13:57, July 15, 2021

The idea that innovative pharmaceuticals independently researched and developed by China could be sold at premium prices in overseas markets used to be a fantasy. Today, that is no longer the case.

Students at a pharmacy college in east China's Jiangsu Province participate in practical training during the summer vacation. (People's Daily/Wang Hao)

According to data from the National Medical Products Administration, the number of applications and approvals for self-developed new drugs in China has continued to rise -- some 402, 448 and 528 applications for Category 1 innovative drugs were accepted in 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively.

Furthermore, China has witnessed rapid growth in the total number of relevant applications for three consecutive years. Since 2018, a total of 35 Category 1 innovative drugs have been given approval to enter the market, bringing Chinas innovative drugs steadily to the forefront of the world level.

Song Ruilin, executive president of the China Pharmaceutical Innovation and Research Development Association (PhIRDA), said that at present, there are two indicators that measure the level of innovative drugs in a country: one is the total number of drugs under study and declaration, and the other is the number of new drugs approved. In the former indicator, China ranks second in the world, and ranks third in the latter.

"Globally, China, as a developing country, has made remarkable progress in the development of innovative drugs," said Song, adding that China now ranks among the top three in the world in this field, the highest in the country's history.

China's innovative drugs have also been making their presence more felt in the overseas market. On Nov. 15, 2019, an innovative drug named BRUKINSA from BeiGene, a Chinese maker of cancer medicines, received accelerated approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), becoming the first Chinese anti-tumor drug approved for the U.S. market.

Following in the footsteps of BRUKINSA, an increasing number of drugs manufactured by China's major pharmaceutical companies have started to target overseas markets. Almonertinib Mesilate tablets of the third-generation EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) from Hansoh Pharma and the recombinant mycobacterium tuberculosis fusion protein (EC) Ekear from Zhifei Biological Products Co., Ltd. serve as notable examples.

This achievement can be attributed to years of efforts from China, said Professor Shen Lin, vice president of Peking University Cancer Hospital. From Shen's perspective, the large number of returnees to China and multinational enterprises and their professionals focusing on the China market have greatly promoted the development of innovative drugs in China.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
China committed to human rights development path with Chinese characteristics

14:32, July 15, 2021 By He Yin ( People's Daily

Medical workers provide free services for residents in Yongchuan district, southwest Chinas Chongqing municipality, June 30, 2021. (Peoples Daily Online/Chen Shichuan)

The efforts of the Chinese government to safeguard peoples economic, social and cultural rights won praise from participants in the 47th regular session of the United Nations Human Rights Council held in Geneva, Switzerland, from June 21 to July 13. Over 90 countries voiced support for Chinas stance on human rights issues during the meeting.

More and more countries believe that the Communist Party of China (CPC), which celebrates its centenary this year, has embarked on a path for human rights development with Chinese characteristics through combining the universality of human rights with Chinas specific conditions, and added diversity to the concept of human rights with its own practices.

History has witnessed the development and progress of Chinas human rights cause. After the First Opium War broke out in 1840, China was gradually reduced to a semi-colonial, semi-feudal society and suffered greater ravages than ever before.

It is estimated that 80 percent of Chinas population was constantly haunted by dire hunger or inadequate food supply, and that tens or even hundreds of thousands of people starved to death every year.

At such a crucial juncture, the CPC came into being and resolutely took on the noble mission of salvaging the country and saving the Chinese people. Since then, the CPC has pursued a road of human rights protection that belongs to the people, and fundamentally changed the destiny of the Chinese people.

Seeking happiness for the Chinese people and rejuvenation for the Chinese nation is the original aspiration and mission of Chinese Communists as well as the root of the CPCs stance on human rights. Over the past century, the CPC has unswervingly fulfilled its original aspiration and mission and created a great miracle in respecting and protecting human rights.

In 2019, the average life expectancy of Chinese residents rose to 77.3 years, compared with 35 years in 1949. Last year, the per capita disposable income and per capita consumption expenditure of Chinese people were 328 times and 241 times that of 1956, respectively.

China has built the worlds largest social security system, and continuously expanded its social security coverage and improved relevant services.

The country has seen remarkable achievements in poverty alleviation, not only rewriting its history of human rights development, but creating a new miracle in the protection of human rights in the world.

Chinas national rejuvenation represents a process of promoting social fairness and justice, and advancing human rights, according to Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee.

The Chinese people have gained a stronger sense of gain, happiness, and security, which serves as an important criterion to gauge the progress of Chinas human rights cause.

The Chinese peoples overall satisfaction toward the Chinese government led by the CPC exceeds 93 percent, according to a report by the John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University.

In addition, the Law and Order Index released by Gallup, an American analytics and advisory company, suggests that China is one of the safest countries in the world.

The CPCs practice of respecting and guaranteeing human rights in the past century has fully proven that there are no ready models to copy in respecting, protecting and developing human rights for China and that the country must proceed from its prevailing realities and go its own way.

The CPC has traveled a path of human rights protection that features upholding CPC leadership and the socialist system in promoting human rights, promoting human rights through development, taking a people-centered approach to human rights protection, aiming for people's well-rounded development, and building a community with a shared future for mankind.

Chinas ideas about human rights, including putting people first and the rights to subsistence and development are the primary rights, have been widely echoed around the world. As British scholar Martin Jacques pointed out, the most basic human right is sound economic conditions.

There is no end to human rights development and human rights protection is an ongoing cause. China will firmly stick to its human rights development path with Chinese characteristics and continuously contribute to the development and progress of human rights cause in China and around the world.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
COVID-19 pandemic offers opportunity for enhancing Russia-China cooperation: media

Xinhua) 14:40, July 15, 2021

Chinese medical experts pose for a photo before boarding a plane at an airport in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, April 11, 2020. (Photo by Xu Xu/Xinhua)

"Our countries lent a timely helping hand to each other amid the coronavirus pandemic. As they say in China, to send charcoal (to a neighbor) in snowy weather," said Konstantin Kosachev, Russian Federation Council deputy speaker.

MOSCOW, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Russia and China provided timely support to each other amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and need to deepen cooperation to restore cross-border exchanges, the TASS news agency has reported, citing a senior Russian official.

"Our countries lent a timely helping hand to each other amid the coronavirus pandemic. As they say in China, to send charcoal (to a neighbor) in snowy weather," Konstantin Kosachev, Russian Federation Council deputy speaker, said Tuesday at a virtual meeting between Russian and Chinese regional officials.

A plane carrying Chinese medical experts is seen at the airport in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, April 11, 2020.(Photo by Xu Xu/Xinhua)

The two sides have sent humanitarian supplies and medical experts, and coordinated efforts on border checkpoint systems and the repatriation of citizens, he said.

Kosachev noted that "further improvement of cooperation in this field remains in demand, considering the need to restore the normal rhythm of cross-border exchanges."

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Accidental movie star gets July 1 Medal for her life at the loom

China Daily) 14:49, July 15, 2021

In the 1950s, when the textile industry in Shanghai was a pillar of the Chinese economy, a movie about textile workers became a big hit across the nation.

Titled Huang Baomei, the film was named after a textile worker and was adapted from her life story. It even starred the Shanghai woman herself.

Huang Baomei arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, June 29, 2021. The awarding ceremony of the July 1 Medal was held on Tuesday morning at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

Last month, the real Huang Baomei was one of 29 people awarded the July 1 Medal, the highest honor a Communist Party of China member can receive.

The 90-year-old said being part of the movie was one of the most exciting moments of her life. "I was so nervous during filming that the scene of me walking from the door to the window had to be shot eight times."

Despite her nerves, the film was finished and was well-received. Soong Ching Ling, then one of the central government's vice-chairs, watched it when she visited Huang's factory in 1958.

"Some people said that I should become an actress after the movie was released," Huang said. "But I decided not to, as I believed my career was in the textile workshops, without which I would be nothing."

Speaking of the medal she received in June, Huang said she is happy but humble, and does not believe she has done anything out of the ordinary.

"The award honors all Shanghai Party members," she said. "I'll learn the stories of the other awardees, continue to serve the people, help those in need, and encourage the young generation to study and work harder."

Born in a village in what is today's Pudong New Area, Huang began to make salt from river water at the age of 12 to earn money for her family.

"Life was tough before the liberation of the country," she said. "It was a challenge to put enough food on the table."

When she was 13, she began working at a textile factory run by the Japanese. "We worked at least 12 hours a day and had to endure a body search whenever we entered or left the factory," Huang said.

The situation changed on May 27,1949, when Shanghai was liberated. The factory she worked at was later renamed the Shanghai No 17 National Cotton Factory, and came under local government ownership.

"We selected the factory head ourselves," Huang said. "We workers truly became the masters of our factory and seized control of our destiny. My gratitude to the country grew into a devotion to make more clothes."

In 1953, the then 22-year-old was recognized by the All-China Federation of Trade Unions as one of the country's first batch of Model Workers due to her record of simultaneously overseeing 1,000 spindles.

After seven days on a train to Beijing, Huang met chairman Mao Zedong at the award ceremony. In 1955, they met again when Mao visited Shanghai. "I remember him smiling and saying, 'textile workers are respectable and have the responsibility of clothing the people'," she said.

Motivated by his words, Huang went on to improve weaving operations at her factory, which ultimately led to a one-third reduction in labor costs. She also took time to impart her skills to apprentices.

After starring in the film, Huang went on to win model worker awards at the municipal and national level seven times.

Although she retired in 1987, she still contributes to the development of the textile industry by assisting spinning mills in Qidong, Jiangsu province, and in Shihezi, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, in matters such as equipment purchasing, worker selection and training. She has also volunteered as a docent at revolutionary sites in Shanghai.

"Life is much better than ever before, but history should not be forgotten," said Huang, who now lives with her son and his family.

"We cannot take happiness for granted. Hard work and dedication are always at the heart of efforts to make the country stronger."

(Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun)
Chinese, Pakistani FMs vow to raise bilateral ties to higher level

Xinhua) 14:50, July 15, 2021

DUSHANBE, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi here on Wednesday, with both sides pledging to elevate bilateral relations.

As all-weather strategic cooperative partners, China and Pakistan unwaveringly support each other on issues concerning their respective core interests, and they should carry on such a good tradition, Wang said.

China is willing to use the opportunity of marking the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties with Pakistan to build on the past experience and plan further development of bilateral relations, so as to jointly address changes in the international and reginal situation and bring their relations to a higher level, he said.

China will continue to provide vaccines to Pakistan and help it completely defeat the COVID-19 pandemic, Wang added.

Qureshi extended his warm congratulations on the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, saying that Pakistan welcomes and supports China's development, and is committed to broadening the traditional friendship between the two countries.

Pakistan is grateful for China's provision of precious assistance to its pandemic fight, he said, adding that his whole country backs the Pakistan-China Economic Corridor and hopes that the major project will yield more results and facilitate Pakistan's development.

Wang and Qureshi also had an in-depth exchange of views on the current situation in Afghanistan, believing that it presents both challenges and opportunities.

They agreed that steps should be taken to implement the principle of "Afghan-led and Afghan-owned," and that more attention should be paid to the role of Afghanistan's neighboring countries, while communication and coordination among stakeholders should be strengthened for joint response to and guidance for the evolving situation in Afghanistan.

They agreed to strengthen coordination, prevent a resurgence of terrorist forces, facilitate the resumption of intra-Afghan talks, build a broad and inclusive political framework, and jointly advance the peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
China puts people's lives and health in first place

14:56, July 15, 2021 By He Yin ( People's Daily

China called for equitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines worldwide and stressed the importance of improving the accessibility, affordability, and production of such vaccines in developing countries, including least developed countries, to save lives and end the pandemic as soon as possible.

Workers produce masks to be exported at a factory in Ninghai neighborhood, Haizhou district, Lianyungang, east China's Jiangsu province, Feb. 2, 2021. (People's Daily Online/Geng Yuhe)

China made the appeal during a recent dialogue on COVID-19 on behalf of 63 countries with the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

China's proposal represented the common aspiration of the international society, especially the developing countries, and fully demonstrated its major country responsibility to safeguard the right to life and health of the people around the world.

The right to life and health is a fundamental right of every human being. It is what guarantees that people live a life in dignity. The sudden outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has posed severe threats against the right to life and health of the people across the world, and how to protect this right of the people amid the pandemic is testing the value of the philosophies and practices of human rights protection of all countries.

The world's anti-pandemic efforts in the past year proved that only by placing people's lives and health in the first place can countries effectively safeguard their right to life and health.

Since the outburst of the disease, China has always upheld a people-centered approach in safeguarding people's right to life and health, tried its best to maintain infections and mortality at the lowest level possible, and treated patients and saved lives impartially.

From locking down Wuhan, former epicenter of the disease with over 10 million people, and launching the largest medical assistance operation since the founding of the People's Republic of China, to doing everything possible to treat each and every patient, and to giving a total of 1.38 billion doses of vaccines, China has profoundly explained its lofty ideal of putting its people above everything.

"If I have COVID-19, I want to be treated in China." The remarks by Bruce Aylward, senior advisor to the Director-General of WHO, are a powerful endorsement for China's efforts to safeguard people's right to life and health.

A woman receives a dose of COVID-19 vaccine in Chongzhou district, Nantong, east China's Jiangsu province, July 5, 2021. (People's Daily Online/Xu Congjun)

Pandemic prevention is a battle that involves all human beings. To safeguard the health of mankind, China is firmly advancing international cooperation on fighting the disease, and joining hands with all parties concerned to build a global community of health for all. The country gave timely notification to the international community of the onset of a new coronavirus, and shared without reserve its experience in containing the spread of the virus and treating the infected. As of April this year, China has dispatched 37 medical expert teams to 34 countries, and has provided or is providing anti-pandemic assistance for 151 countries and 14 international organizations. By mid-June, the country has provided more than 290 billion masks, 3.5 billion protective suits and 4.5 billion testing kits to the world. So far, it has donated and exported more than 500 million doses of finished and bulk vaccines to the international society. The medical devices, vaccines and technologies offered by China have saved numerous lives, and are considered timely assistance.

The people-centered approach in human rights protection of the Communist Party of China (CPC) is well explained by China's efforts to protect people's right to life and health amid the COVID-19 epidemic. The CPC has always maintained the nonprofit nature of medical care, and constantly enhanced its protection over the right to life and health. Since 2012, the CPC Central Committee with comrade Xi Jinping at the core has given top priority to improving the peoples health, proposed that prosperity for all is impossible without health for all, and made a significant decision to implement the Healthy China initiative.

In 2019, the average life expectancy of Chinese residents rose to 77.3 years, and their main health indicators were generally higher than the average level of middle- and high-income countries.

Recently, China was granted a malaria-free certification by the WHO, which marked another milestone of its health development. The WHO called it "a notable feat," saying the success was hard-earned and came only after decades of targeted and sustained action.

Our fight against COVID-19 is still going on, and the life and dignity of every one of us must be well protected. China will keep on working with the rest of the world and firmly advance anti-pandemic cooperation, so as to jointly build a global community of health for all and safeguard the future of mankind.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Technological innovation enables fish farmers in NW China to increase income while treating wastewater

15:00, July 15, 2021 By Wang Hanchao ( People's Daily

Wang Xujun, a fish farmer in Helan county, Yinchuan city, northwest Chinas Ningxia Hui autonomous region, consults Jin Haoxuan, a teacher who specializes in water environment management in Tsinghua University, about technical matters in the middle stage of fish cultivation. (Photo/Ningxia Daily)

Because of technological innovation, Helan county, Yinchuan city, northwest Chinas Ningxia Hui autonomous region, which faced challenges in developing aquaculture as it is located in an inland region, has managed to increase fish farmers income while realizing effective control of wastewater.

Earlier in July, Helans first batch of 150,000 farmed bass hit the market, about one month earlier than the fish transported from southern areas of China to the county in the past. The high quality bass have been well received in the market, with the unit price of big bass being 40 yuan ($6.18) higher per kilogram than the rest.

There has been a time when Wang Xujun, a fish farmer in Helan whose family has been in aquaculture for over 40 years, had been distressed by the fact that fish farming appeared less profitable in recent years.

To increase fish production and make more profits, Wang tried feeding fish plenty of food, which failed to stimulate the production and only made the water thicker.

I spent a lot of money on the feed. However, less than 30 percent of it was absorbed by fish, and all the rest turned into sewage, Wang said.

While hating to see the money on feed flow away with the tailwater, he was also worried as fish farmers were required to either treat sewage or shut down farms under tougher measures for environmental protection.

Jin Haoxuan, a teacher who specializes in water environment management in Tsinghua University, brought technologies for dealing with tailwater to Wangs fish farm. Since fish farmers couldnt make much money, not to mention they now need to bear the cost of sewage treatment, fish farmers economic conditions must be taken into consideration in sewage treatment, according to Jin.

Considering that avoiding pollution at the source is more important than disposing of the polluted tailwater, Jin and his team members stayed in Ningxia for four years and researched into technologies related to fish farming.

Jins team focused their attention on helping farmers make good use of water and cultivate high-quality fish, in a bid to increase their income and make them more motivated to protect the environment.

Fish farmers in Ningxia used to raise only grass carp and several other species that are easy to raise but priced low in the market. Due to unfavorable temperature and climate, farmers in Ningxia couldnt cultivate fish native to south China including bass, which have tenderer meat and higher prices.

The previous model of drawing water and discharging wastewater recklessly and trying to drive production through enhancing the input of feed didnt work, Jin told farmers. Noting that local farmers have the benefit of using high-quality water from the Yellow River, Jin suggested that farmers raise fish species that are hugely popular in the market.

Bass is charged over four times the price of grass carp. We will listen to your advice if you can prove that bass can be raised here, fish farmers said to Jin.

Jins team then started to study the cultivation of bass based on the habits of the fish species and local conditions. Bass likes clean water and usually stops feeding when the water gets dirty. The water temperature in Ningxia is low, and every time fish farmers change water, they will cause a drop in temperature at the fish ponds. As the sunlight is strong in Ningxia, algas grow wildly due to eutrophication of water and cause oxygen deficiency for fish. Besides, with long cold days, it is very likely that when fish from the southern areas are ready for the market, local fish havent grown up yet.

To address these problems, Jins team figured out a model which features small pond and fine management to allow fish farmers to maintain and control the temperature and other conditions of fish ponds.

After many trials, the team finally proved a method of raising fish at greenhouses and small ponds while purifying the water successful.

They have changed harmful ammonia nitrogen and nitrite into harmless substances with microorganisms, and residual fish feed and feces into fertilizers with water circulation equipment. A fish pond only produces a few glasses of such substances and fertilizers. Except for evaporation, there is almost no water loss.

The transformed fish farms need less water and have witnessed rising production and benefits. They can produce 2,000 kilograms of bass a year with 200 cubic meters of water. Besides, raising bass is now even cheaper than raising carp in the past. Ningxia used to introduce fish from south China, which led to many losses during transportation. Nowadays, the local high-quality fish hit the market earlier than those from south China, and are highly competitive in the market even with their high prices.

The fish farming model of Jins team allows farmers like Wang to increase their income while controlling the pollution at a low cost. It has been supported and promoted by the science and technology bureau and the agriculture and rural affairs bureau of Yinchuan.

Five major fish farming households have participated in trial breeding under the model, 27 leading companies have confirmed to join, and thousands of individual fish farmers will observe the cultivation and receive training in batches.

It is believed that more fresh fish from Ningxia will be served on the tables of residents in northwest China in the near future.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
China commences scientific research on lunar soil samples

15:03, July 15, 2021 By Feng Hua ( People's Daily

China handed out about 17.48 grams of lunar samples brought back to the Earth by the countrys Change-5 lunar mission to 13 scientific research institutions at a ceremony held in the National Astronomical Observatories under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in Beijing, capital of China, on July 12, marking the official commencement of scientific research on the first batch of lunar samples in the country.

Two foreigners watch the lunar samples No.001 at the National Museum of China in Beijing, Feb. 28, 2021. (Peoples Daily Online/Chen Xiaogen)

A total of 31 applications for relevant research have been approved. According to the applications, the institutions that received the lunar samples, including the CAS, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), and Sun Yat-sen University, will research lunar surface formation process, volcanic activity age, and lunar evolution process.

The study of Change-5 lunar samples is expected to offer new insights into issues including the evolution of the moon and planets and the habitability of planets, according to Zhu Rixiang, president of the expert committee set up to review and evaluate lunar sample study applications and also an academician of the CAS.

Every grain of the samples is precious and should be protected with the greatest possible efforts so as to reduce loss during research to the greatest extent, said Liu Jizhong, director of the Lunar Exploration and Space Program Center of the China National Space Administration (CNSA), at the ceremony marking the delivery of the samples.

Visitors watch full-size models of the ascender and lander of Chinas Change-5 moon probe at the National Museum of China in Beijing, Feb. 28, 2021. (Peoples Daily Online/Chen Xiaogen)

The return capsule of Change-5 mission returned to the Earth with about 1,731 grams of moon samples on Dec. 17, 2020. Since then, the expert committee for lunar samples and the ground application system have carried out a lot of work in relevant aspects.

Lunar samples are traditionally called lunar soil. After the Change-5 lunar samples were officially handed over to the ground application system, the latter carried out tasks including unsealing, processing, storage, preparation, fundamental analysis, description, and establishment of archives, according to Pei Zhaoyu, deputy director of the Lunar Exploration and Space Program Center of the CNSA and director of Lunar Sample Management Office.

Meanwhile, the CNSA issued lunar sample management regulations to standardize the preservation, management, and utilization of lunar samples for the purpose of giving full play to their scientific value and role in improving social benefits, Pei said, adding that nine experts were hired to make up the first expert committee for lunar samples according to the regulations.

The first batch of lunar samples distributed for scientific research includes 44 samples, which weigh about 56.88 grams, Pei disclosed, explaining that of these samples, there are 23 flake samples, 19 rock samples, and 2 powder samples, which weigh 768.3 milligrams, 1,112.9 milligrams, and 55 grams, respectively.

The powder samples can be jointly borrowed by multiple applicants, while the rock samples and flake samples can only be used exclusively, Pei said.

Xiao Zhiyong, associate professor at the space and planetary science department of the School of Atmospheric Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, and leader of the planetary and geological science research group of the department, was excited about receiving valuable lunar samples in Beijing for scientific research.

Visitors watch a full-size model of the Tianwen-1 Mars rover at the National Museum of China in Beijing, Feb. 28, 2021. (Peoples Daily Online/Chen Xiaogen)

The research group will focus on the process and history of the lunar impact in its analysis and research on the lunar samples it received and carry out meticulous geochemical research on the samples based on previous studies, said Xiao.

We havent received any formal applications from foreign research institutions so far. The management and use of lunar samples follow relevant international conventions concluded and participated by China. The CNSA encourages joint international study of lunar samples. Foreign scientists can involve themselves in the research on lunar samples by joining Chinese research teams or through other ways, Pei said.

The CNSA is working with relevant departments to formulate rules for international cooperation on lunar samples, which will be implemented after approval from the central government, according to him.

Officials from the CNSA disclosed that new lunar samples for scientific research will be released gradually according to the progress of the ground application system in processing the samples. The next round of application review for borrowing lunar samples for scientific research is preliminarily scheduled for September, according to the CNSA, which hopes that more research institutions will join in the research on lunar samples.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
China's development success result of following its own path: Uzbek expert

Xinhua) 15:18, July 15, 2021

TASHKENT, July 15 (Xinhua) -- China has chosen its own path of development and has been following it, achieving prosperity that deserves respect, the editor-in-chief of an Uzbek newspaper said.

China's success is the result of "a wise policy and the leadership" of the Communist Party of China (CPC), Muhammadjon Obidov, chairman of the Fergana branch of the Union of Journalists of Uzbekistan and editor-in-chief of the newspaper "Fargona Hakikati" (The Truth of Fergana), told Xinhua in an interview.

"I have visited this amazing country several times and I saw many changes with my own eyes," Obidov said.

According to Obidov, since the CPC decided to pursue a policy of reform and opening up in 1978, China has achieved a tremendous socio-economic success.

China, a country with its own ancient history, traditions and customs, has chosen a distinctive development path in line with its own national conditions, Obidov said.

Obidov underlined that the Chinese people enjoy a wide range of rights and freedoms such as the rights to work, education, as well as freedom of speech, the press and assembly, according to the constitution and other laws of China.

"The state protects the rights and interests of all social and demographic groups of its population. All of these and other regulations fully comply with democratic principles," Obidov said.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Tracing origins of COVID-19 should not be politicized: South African official

Xinhua) 15:20, July 15, 2021

People wearing face masks are seen walking on a street in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on July 8, 2021. (Photo by Rahel Patrasso/Xinhua)

"What is important is that COVID-19 should not be used for political point scoring exercises, which is what is happening at the present time," said Anil Sooklal, a deputy director-general at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

JOHANNESBURG, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Countries must refrain from using the tracing of the origins of COVID-19 to score cheap political points, a South African official has said.

"What is important is that COVID-19 should not be used for political point scoring exercises, which is what is happening at the present time," said Anil Sooklal, a deputy director-general at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

He said China must be applauded for its cooperation in tracing the origins of COVID-19.

Children wearing face masks play outside in Hong Kong, south China, March 26, 2021. (Xinhua/Lo Ping Fai)

"We must appreciate that China cooperated with a group of experts when there was an international call to find the origins of COVID-19. China allowed the group of experts from the World Health Organization (WHO) and gave them access to various sites that they wanted to visit and exchange information with them," he told Xinhua.

According to data released last week from the WHO Regional Office for Africa, the 50 million doses administered in Africa to date account for just 1.6 percent of doses administered globally. Sixteen million, or less than 2 percent of Africans are now fully vaccinated.

"Our focus should be on working and cooperating with each other and not competing with each other to score points," Sooklal said, adding that the international community should focus on "how can we help the developing nations to have access to vaccines and to ensure equal supplies of vaccines and deal with the devastation that continues."

He said it was unfortunate that the virus has been used to "exacerbate tensions" in the world. "We don't support any attempts to point fingers at others," he said.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Chinese, Pakistani FMs exchange views on serious Chinese casualties in Pakistan

Xinhua) 15:22, July 15, 2021

Photo taken with a mobile phone shows people transferring an injured person to a hospital following a blast in Gilgit city, Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, July 14, 2021. (Str/Xinhua)

Lessons should be learned from the incident, and the security measures for China-Pakistan cooperation projects should be further strengthened to ensure the safe and smooth operation of the projects, Wang said.

DUSHANBE, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi here on Wednesday, exchanging views on the heavy Chinese casualties in Pakistan.

The Chinese side was shocked by the incident, hoping that the Pakistani side could quickly find out its cause, conduct rescue and treatment work at all costs, deal with the aftermath in time, and prevent similar incidents from happening again, Wang said.

If it is a terrorist attack, the criminals must be immediately arrested and severely punished, he added.

Photo taken with a mobile phone shows the wrecks of a bus plunged into a ravine following a blast in Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on July 14, 2021. (Str/Xinhua)

Lessons should be learned from the incident, and the security measures for China-Pakistan cooperation projects should be further strengthened to ensure the safe and smooth operation of the projects, Wang said.

Qureshi, on behalf of the government and the people of Pakistan, expressed sincere condolences to the Chinese side.

Preliminary investigation showed that it was an accident and no background of terrorist attacks has been found, Qureshi said.

China is Pakistan's most important friend and most reliable partner, and China's loss is Pakistan's loss, he stressed.

Pakistan will spare no effort to treat the wounded, thoroughly investigate the truth of the incident, lose no time in sharing the progress of the investigation with China, and do its utmost to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel in Pakistan, Qureshi added.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Italy's research council dedicates latest Science Almanac issue to China's technology

Xinhua) 15:38, July 15, 2021

ROME, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Italy's National Research Council (CNR) dedicated the latest issue of its bi-monthly Science Almanac to China, examining China's exceptional development and innovation in science and technology.

The science magazine, published online Wednesday, has collected articles that observe China's technology development in various fields such as environmental sustainability, high-tech sector and the space.

In an interview with the science magazine, Antonello Pasini from the CNR's Institute on Air Pollution said that sensitivity to ecological issues is growing in China, in terms of both popular sentiment and political leadership.

"Today, approximately 50 percent of photovoltaic panels available worldwide are produced in China," said Pasini, adding that China's direction in terms of environmental issues has changed significantly over the past 15 years.

With regard to the high-tech sector, "China is among the global leaders in quantum technologies," researcher Augusto Smerzi from the CNR's National Institute of Optics told the Almanac.

China today is among the biggest investors in scientific and computer research in sectors where quantum technology is the most advanced outpost, according to the Almanac.

Since sending its first astronaut into orbit in 2003, China has achieved a series of extraordinary successes, said the science magazine, listing China's achievements in space exploration these years, including its first space walk in 2008 and the successful landing of a rover on Mars earlier this year.

"Keeping in mind that a new family of launchers with more powerful and less toxic propellants is slowly replacing the old ones, and that in terms of components China has almost everything it needs," the magazine wrote.

The Almanac also highlighted more and more cooperation between China and Italy in the field of science in an editorial, saying that "China is coming closer ... and relations between Italian and Chinese researchers are closer as well, as confirmed by joint geological research along the new Silk Road as well as collaboration on cultural heritage projects."

In an article titled "The CNR on the New Silk Road," researcher Alessandro Pasuto from the CNR's Research Institute for Hydrogeological Protection said that the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) offers a significant opportunity for scientists who study landslides and earthquakes.

"We're talking about vast areas that include the Himalayan and the Karakoram mountain ranges, which are among the most tectonically active areas on the planet," said Pasuto, who is also the co-scientific head of the Sino-Italian Joint Laboratory on Geological and Hydrological Hazards, a joint lab set up in cooperation between the CNR and the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
China, India should become partners, not rivals nor enemies: Chinese FM

Xinhua) 15:43, July 15, 2021

Photo taken on March 22, 2020 shows an empty road at India Gate during a public curfew in New Delhi, India. (Xinhua/Javed Dar)

China and India should not be a threat to each other, but an opportunity for each other's development, and China and India are partners, not rivals, let alone enemies, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said.

DUSHANBE, July 15 (Xinhua) -- China and India should not be a threat to each other, but an opportunity for each other's development, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Wednesday.

Wang made the remarks during a meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.

He noted that since the foreign ministers of the two countries met in Moscow last September, the frontline troops of the two militaries have got disengaged at the Galwan Valley and the Pangong Tso Lake area, and the situation in the China-India border area has generally been easing.

However, China-India relations are still at a low point, which serves no one's interests, he added.

Wang said that the essence of China-India relations is how the two major developing countries view each other, and how the two neighbors live in harmony and achieve mutual success.

A visitor watches images of "Splendid China" photo exhibition at the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) in Mumbai, India, Aug. 19, 2019. (Photo by Fariha Farooqui/Xinhua)

He stressed that China's strategic judgment of the bilateral relations remains unchanged, adding that neither country should be a threat to each other, but an opportunity for each other's development, and China and India are partners, not rivals, let alone enemies.

The principles of China-India relations should continue to be mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, non-aggression, non-interference in each other's internal affairs, and mutual respect for each other's core interests, Wang stressed.

At present, he added, China and India shoulder more important responsibilities than ever for peace and prosperity in their respective regions and the world at large, and should attach greater importance to the common strategic interests and deliver more benefits to the two peoples.

The Chinese foreign minister pointed out that the truth of the China-India border issues last year is clear, and China is not to be blamed.

China is ready to seek a mutually acceptable solution to the issues that require emergency treatment through negotiation and consultation with the Indian side, Wang said.

He underscored the significance of consolidating the results of disengagement between the militaries of the two countries, refraining from taking any unilateral actions in the sensitive disputed areas, and avoiding the recurrence of the situation resulting from misunderstanding and miscalculation.

Wang said that the two countries need to take a long-term view and prevent border-related incidents from causing unnecessary disruptions to bilateral relations.

A man uses a phone with Chinese Oppo brand at a shopping mall in Chennai, India, Oct. 8, 2019. (Xinhua/Lui Siu Wai)

For his part, Jaishankar said that as two major developing countries, the two sides have much in common and should strengthen cooperation in many areas.

The Indian side has not and does not want to change its strategic judgment of India-China relations and is willing to work with China to push bilateral relations out of the trough, he said.

He added that India and China should find a solution to the boundary issue that serves the interests of both countries through dialogue and consultation.

Both sides believe that bilateral relations should be lifted out of the current low level as soon as possible, so as to ensure their development in a sound and steady manner, Jaishankar said.

The two foreign ministers agreed that both countries should strengthen their consultations on border issues through existing mechanisms, consolidate the results already achieved, and strive to shift from emergency response to normal management and control, in a bid to jointly safeguard peace and tranquility in the border areas.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Inspired by their passion for watches, Ludwig Wurlitzer and Philipp Man founded Chronext in 2013, after coming up with the idea while studying Business Management at Kings College London. The next eight years would prove the validity of the concept. Then the pandemic came along, pushing the whole world onto the internet, and the business became a runaway success. In 2020  an annus horribilis for the watch industry  the company turned over 100 million euros for the first time, with a compound annual growth rate of 46% from 2018 to 2020, according to the company literature. This year, several big names from the watch industry and e-commerce have joined Chronext. Jacob Fonnesbech Agraou, an online sales veteran from eBay, joins the board as chairman, where he is joined by Norbert Platt, former CEO of Richemont, as an adviser, and Hamdi Chatti, former head of Louis Vuittons watch division. So, what is the secret of Chronexts success, and how have they captured the spirit of our times?

Watches selection: Omega, Panerai, Rolex, TAG Heuer  Chronext

Digital natives with a passion for old-school quality

Is it because the co-founders of Chronext are also watch fanatics? Certainly, quality and authenticity are a fundamental concern. The last thing they want is to provide a market for counterfeits, or to surrender control to third parties. Each watch that passes through their hands is scrutinised by watchmakers in the Cologne workshop. Every item is treated appropriately, depending on its status. The patina of vintage models is carefully preserved, while contemporary models that have been worn are polished up. Once they have been spruced up and authenticated, these Certified Pre-Owned and vintage watches enjoy a 2-year Chronext guarantee, and are ready to be posted on the online sales platform. New watches have a double guarantee: they have the original brand warranty, given that the cases are not opened, plus the Chronext guarantee of newness, precision and water-tightness.

Patek Philippe Nautilus  Chronext

... and new school hybrid sales methods

Are you happy to buy online, or would you prefer to hold your dream watch in your hands, and talk to an expert? Chronext has chosen not to choose. While some younger customers have no hesitation in buying online  with home delivery and 14 days right of return  other clients might prefer to click & collect. A watch adviser will welcome them in one of the Chronext lounges  in Berlin, Cologne, Paris or London, for instance  where they have the opportunity to try on the watch and ask questions (a vital part of the watch buying process!) before giving in to temptation, or not.

Where do the watches come from?

Chronexts stock includes some 7,000 new or certified second-hand watches from 49 brands. The watches come from individuals, retailers and watchmakers, who sell them to Chronext, either outright or on consignment; but in any case, every watch is authenticated and controlled. Chronext has a large European footprint and a global client database, with eight dedicated websites for different markets (Italy, Austria, Switzerland, France, Netherlands, United Kingdom and World, with a .com extension). In a sector where competition between different distribution channels is fierce, Chronext, which has served over 100,000 clients since it was launched, prefers to remain discreet in terms of its partner brands and retailers.

Omega Speadmaster Snoopy  Chronext

Where do the customers come from?

Younger customers are flocking to vintage and Certified Pre-Owned products, with their attractive pricing  you can get hold of a Rolex Datejust for half the price of a new model! Add to that the sustainable aspect and the personal touch of pre-owned, and its easy to see why the younger generations are hooked. Chronext expects that second-hand and vintage sales will soon reach the same level as new watch sales.

Chronext offers models starting at 1,000 euros, with no upper limit, which gives an indication of the treasures to be found there. In 2014, Chronext sold a Patek Philippe for 540,000 euros. Might we see special limited editions, or partnerships with watchmakers or retailers? Thats not currently on the cards; Chronext intends to stick to its winning formula of discretion and success.
[Photo/Agencies]

By Mark Pinkstone

Even though the World Health Organization's team of international experts found it was highly unlikely that the COVID-19 virus came from a Chinese lab, the administration of US President Joe Biden seems to be holding on to ploys of its predecessor by ordering intelligence agencies to find answers to the origin, instead of respecting scientists on such a scientific matter.

In fact, no one in the world has found the cause to be emanation from a lab, and it is considered more likely to have been transmitted to humans from a bat or other creature.

Like a broken record, former president Donald Trump and successor Biden have repeatedly run their narrative that the virus escaped from a lab in Wuhan, Hubei province, without one shred of evidence. It's all part of their China-bashing campaign.

But politicians being politicians, some of their entire lives are based on deceit to keep themselves in power. In 2011 when Biden was vice-president to then president Barack Obama, Biden was full of praise for China, saying that he remained convinced that a successful China could make the United States more prosperous.

During his six-day visit to China in August 2011, Biden met with Chinese leaders on bilateral, regional and global issues. He noted that the two countries also compete as they cooperate, adding that "the immense talent of the Chinese people, the incredible hard work and perseverance of the Chinese people and their leaders have literally lifted tens of millions of people out of poverty and built an economy that now helps fuel the world's prosperity".

Fast-forward to the G7 summit in the UK in June 2021, when Biden, now president, did a complete U-turn and called on world leaders to resist China's globalization.

US animosity with China has a long history, but it was escalated by Trump, who used rhetoric against China as a smoke screen to hide his deficiencies in many respects. He called the COVID-19 outbreak a "hoax" and blamed China for its spread. Hardly a day went by without Trump stirring up animosity among his constituents and using his intelligence agencies to fully spread the word worldwide.

The US administration has 17 intelligence agencies spying on its people and world leaders. That does not include countless subagencies, such as the National Endowment for Democracy, spending billions of US taxpayers' money on clandestine operations in Hong Kong and other places to undermine sovereignty. German Chancellor Angela Merkel was furious when she discovered the US was bugging her phone for 12 years.

In addition, the US plays the lead role in the Five Eyes network of spies, which also includes Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the UK and is used as a major conduit to spread anti-China propaganda throughout the world.

During the Trump administration, these activities were masterminded by then secretary of state Mike Pompeo, and even though the US administration has changed hands from Republicans to Democrats, the intelligence framework has remained in place and was inherited by Pompeo's successor, Antony Blinken.

What is worrying the US is China's rise on the world stage. Whereas the US has some 800 military bases in 70 countries throughout the world to show its might, China has used a more diplomatic and economic approach through its Belt and Road Initiative to link Asia with the Indian subcontinent, the Middle East and Africa. Instead of putting "boots on the ground", China's objective is to lift poorer countries out of poverty, as it has successfully done.

While the US continues to spread its democracy ideology throughout the world with might, China has not spread its ideology to anyone. There is nothing to be afraid of, as a fickle Biden once said (before he was president): "Our desire for your (China's) prosperity is not borne out of some nobility. It is in our self-interest that China continues to prosper."

The question is: Which Biden should we put our faith in?

The author is a veteran journalist and former chief information officer of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
By Wu Minwen

On the morning of July 2, Gen. Paul La Camera took over ROK-US Combined Forces Command (CFC) and U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) at a ceremony held at Camp Humphreys, the headquarters of USFK in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi-do of ROK officially taking charge of all American troops stationed in ROK as well as ROK-US Combined Forces. The ROK-US CFC is always headed up by an American commander with his ROK counterpart as deputy commander. In other words, ROK troops are commanded by the American commander.

This division of power can be traced back to the period of the Korean War. When the Cold War ended, the international situation was drastically changed, so was the situation in East Asia. In the mounting protest by ROK residents against American troops stationed in their country, the two countries reached an agreement in 1994 for the ROK to take back the command of peacetime operations from the US side. Since then, every ROK administration, from Roh Mu-Hyun and Lee Myung-bak to Park Geun-hye and Moon Jae-in, negotiated with Washington about the wartime command of ROK troops, but the deadline of handing over the command has been postponed over and over.

The US has taken an unmistaken passive and non-cooperative attitude toward the handover of wartime command because, with the implementation of its Indo-Pacific Strategy, it has seen changes in ROKs geopolitical value and the wartime command of ROK troops.

Although the quadrilateral mechanism doesnt include ROK, that doesnt mean it is not important in the Indo-Pacific strategy. The military alliance between Seoul and Washington began during WWII and the Korean War. Even today, the Korean Peninsula is in a state of truce as the main parties to that war still havent signed a peace agreement, which means, theoretically, the war isnt over. The US has deployed the THAAD system in ROK to monitor northeast and northern China, and the American military base in ROK is a forward position from which troops can reach Chinas Yellow Sea, Bohai Sea, East China Sea and southeastern coastal areas in the shortest time.

Since the Korean War, the US-ROK military alliance has been the most important barrier to ROKs security. The country not only needs Americas nuclear protection, but also highly relies on the hi-tech military equipment and intelligence provided by the US. Its national defense system would be like a sieve without Americas Global Hawk, E-8C reconnaissance plane, F-35B fighter and other hi-tech devices.

After ROK President Moon Jae-in and US President Joe Biden met at the White House on May 21 this year, the joint statement issued by the two countries mentioned the so-called importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait for the first time. This move, which crossed the bottom line for China, was partly the result of Bidens pressuring and partly a reflection of Seouls determination to defend the bilateral alliance. In return, Washington not only scrapped the restriction for ROK to launch missiles with a range of more than 180km and a warhead weighing more than 500kg but also allowed it to launch submarine-based missiles. In early July, ROK successfully launched a submarine-based missile and became the eighth country worldwide to master that technology.

On July 5, the ROK military sent the destroyer Wang Geon (DDH-978), Lynx helicopter, three high-speed boats and more than 200 naval officers to participate in the Pacific Vanguard joint maritime exercise led by US Navys 7th Fleet. Although Seoul claimed to not target any third country, Americas China-targeting Indo-Pacific Strategy wouldnt change a bit because of ROKs participation.

Its been nearly 30 years since Washington and Seoul began negotiating the transfer of wartime command of ROK troops in 1994, but no decisive progress has been made partly because their alliance is not based on equality, in which Seoul doesnt really have much say, and partly because ROK itself isnt that assertive or insistent either. For the US, losing command of ROK troops would impair its position in Northeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific Strategy; for ROK, while it feels chagrin at being overwhelmed or pressured by the US, it also enjoys the super powers protection.

Now Paul LaCamera has just assumed the role as commander of the CFC, and Moon Jae-ins term is about to expire, and a recent poll shows him and his political rival taking turns in the top spot on the support tally. The political prospects in ROK may make it hard for the country to take back its military command, not to mention that its request doesnt really matter if Uncle Sam simply refuses to give in.

In general, the ROK is vital for the US-led Indo-Pacific Strategy. Although it has close economic ties with China and has been cautious not to upset this strong neighbor, it has always been wary of Chinas rise. Judging from its frequent interactions with the US recently, ROK can no longer conceal such wariness and has no will to either.

(The author is from the College of Information and Communication, PLA National University of Defense Technology)

Disclaimer: This article is originally published on the news.youth.cn, and is translated from Chinese into English and edited by the China Military Online. The information, ideas or opinions appearing in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of eng.chinamil.com.cn.
BEIJING, July 15 -- "Any foreign military aircraft are forbidden to land on China's territory without the approval of the government of the People's Republic of China (PRC), and any unauthorized entry into China's territorial air space by foreign military vessels and aircraft will lead to serious consequences", said Senior Colonel Wu Qian, a spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense, in a written statement released Thursday on the official website of the ministry.

According to media reports, a US military transport aircraft landed in Taiwan on July 15, China expressed serious concerns toward this provocative move by the US side, said Snr. Col. Wu.

"Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory, we solemnly urge the US side to stop playing with fire and immediately quit such hazardous provocative actions," Wu said.

The US should stop sending erroneous signals to the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces and avoid escalation of tensions in the Taiwan Strait, the spokesperson stated.

In addition, Wu warned the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities of not misjudging the current situation and taking risks to invite the wolf into the house, adding that any provocations of seeking "Taiwan independence" through collusion with external powers can only bring Taiwan in danger.

"China must be and will be reunited. No one should underestimate the resolve, will and ability of the Chinese people to defend their national sovereignty and territorial integrity," said Wu. He stated that the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army keeps on high alert and will take all necessary measures to utterly smash any attempt toward "Taiwan independence".
Former U.S. President George W. Bush, who sent U.S. troops to Afghanistan in 2001 to wipe out training grounds for al-Qaeda terrorists after the September 11th attacks, says he thinks it is a mistake for U.S. troops to be pulled out now as Taliban insurgents take control of more and more territory in the country.

Bush, since leaving office in 2009, has rarely commented on the actions of three subsequent U.S. presidents -- Barack Obama, Donald Trump and now Joe Biden.

But with Biden rapidly pulling American forces out of Afghanistan and saying they all will return home by the end of August, Bush says he is worried how the Taliban, if they take power again after American forces ousted them two decades ago, will treat women and children, along with others who have supported U.S. and NATO forces.

In an interview released Wednesday, Bush, from his summer estate in the northeastern U.S., told German state broadcaster Deutsche Welle, "I'm afraid Afghan women and girls are going to suffer unspeakable harm." Asked if it is a mistake for Biden to pull troops out of Afghanistan, Bush said, "I think it is, yeah, because I think the consequences are going to be unbelievably bad, and I'm sad."

The Taliban claims it already controls 85 percent of the country, a figure which the U.S. disputes even as Pentagon officials express concern about militant group's rapid takeover of territory and its advance toward the capital, Kabul. Already, more Afghans are said to live in territory controlled by the Taliban than that overseen by the Afghan government.

Bush launched the U.S. war in Afghanistan in his first year in office in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people in the U.S. American forces helped Afghan resistance units to overthrow the Taliban-run government and targeted al-Qaeda. It became America's longest war.

Bush said Afghan women, who have been terrorized by the Taliban, are "scared" by the prospect of living under Taliban rule again. Bush said he is also worried about the fate of thousands of Afghans who acted as interpreters for U.S. and NATO troops over the last 20 years.


France's Bastille Day celebrations, though scaled back, returned Wednesday to the famed Champs-Elysees in Paris, after a one-year absence due to COVID-19.

French officials limited the crowd size to about 10,000, less than half the 25,000 that usually line the famed boulevard to watch the traditional parade.

Spectators reportedly had to show special passes proving they had been fully vaccinated, recently recovered from the virus, or had a negative coronavirus test. Heavy rain lowered attendance.
Bangtan Boys, also known as BTS, will take part in this year's "Global Citizen Live," a 24-hour broadcast featuring performances by the world's biggest stars.

The event is to be held on Sept. 25 by Global Citizen, an international education and advocacy organization. It will feature live performances and events across the world as part of a campaign "to unite the world to defend the planet and defeat poverty."

Other artists participating in the event include Billie Eilish, Ed Sheeran and The Weeknd. They will take the stage in iconic locations like London, New York, Rio de Janeiro and Seoul.


There was widespread public anger this week after the government belatedly admitted a shortage of vaccines for the over-55s and the inoculation schedule was pushed back yet again.

Since online bookings for jabs were abruptly halted on Monday and equally abruptly resumed on Wednesday, the government has retreated into sullen silence.

Responding to accusations of lying or deliberate secrecy, the government merely put out a statement saying, "There are no snags in vaccine supplies." It refused to comment further, citing alleged confidentiality agreements with drug makers.

So far only 15.6 million people or 30.6 percent of the population have had at least their first jab, almost unchanged from 29.8 percent at the end of June. But since then infections have spiked to over 1,600 a day and Seoul has gone into even tougher lockdown.
The highly contagious delta variant of the coronavirus is rapidly spreading in Southeast Asia as concerns mount over the efficacy of China's Sinovac Biotech vaccine, which has been used in several countries in the region.

Questions over the effectiveness of Beijing's vaccine have prompted some governments, including Thailand's, to consider giving people vaccinated with the Sinovac CoronaVac a booster shot, this time from another vaccine manufacturer such as AstraZeneca.

Sinovac is one of seven coronavirus vaccines that have received emergency use approval by the World Health Organization. Studies on the efficacy rate are ongoing, but Sinovac appears to be less powerful against the virus than other COVID-19 vaccines.

In Indonesia, the majority of vaccine doses offered so far -- nearly 90 percent -- have been made by Sinovac. Concerns about Sinovac have made some Indonesians hesitant to receive the shot. One-third of residents in the province of Jakarta said they are still undecided about whether to be vaccinated, according to a recent poll.

Ismayanti, 25, of Jakarta, told VOA that she is interested in getting vaccinated, but not with the Sinovac vaccine. "From the start, I was doubtful. Because [the World Health Organization] didn't immediately support or admit that Sinovac was effective. I still don't want to use it. Moreover, there are many doctors who died of COVID even though they had been fully vaccinated with Sinovac," Ismayanti said.

The Indonesian Medical Association said last month at least 10 doctors who were fully vaccinated with two doses of the vaccine have died.

Wahyu Jaya, a 30-year-old employee in Jakarta, told VOA, "If it's not that effective, why would I want to put it in my body? And since I've experienced COVID symptoms and the antigen test came back positive, I want to be sure. I'm ready to receive the vaccine, but, if possible, not this Sinovac."

Indonesia, the world's fourth most populous country, with more than 275 million people, has recorded more than 2.67 million cases of COVID-19 and 69,210 deaths, according to the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center. The country has administered more than 52 million vaccine doses, according to Johns Hopkins.


New Braunfels, TX (78130)

Today

Scattered clouds with the possibility of an isolated thunderstorm developing during the afternoon. High 94F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

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Woburn, MA (01801)

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Overcast with rain showers at times. High near 70F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

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Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian's Regular Press Conference on July 15, 2021

2021/07/15

CCTV: China announced the information about President Xi Jinping's attendance of the APEC Informal Leaders' Retreat. This will be the first multilateral summit to be attended by President Xi after the celebrations marking the centenary of the founding of the CPC. What's China's expectation of this meeting?

Zhao Lijian: At the invitation of New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, President Xi Jinping will attend via videoconference the APEC Informal Leaders' Retreat on July 16. This is an important meeting held at a critical time when the world is facing a resurgence of COVID-19 and the international cooperation against the virus has entered a new stage. China sets great store by the role of APEC as an important platform for regional economic cooperation. We hope all parties can uphold the vision of an Asia-Pacific community with a shared future, carry forward the Asia-Pacific partnership, send a positive message of fighting the coronavirus with solidarity and deepening economic recovery and cooperation, so as to inject strong impetus to the fight against the epidemic and economic recovery process in the Asia-Pacific region and the world at large, and make positive contribution to promoting common development and prosperity in Asia-Pacific.

China Daily: Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a press release that "a bus carrying Chinese workers in Khyber Pakhunkhwa Province, plunged into a ravine after a mechanical failure resulting in leakage of gas that caused a blast. Further investigations are underway". The Pakistani side also extended "sincere condolences to the families of Chinese and Pakistani workers who lost their lives in the incident". Do you have any comment? Can you update us on the investigation and Chinese casualties?

Zhao Lijian: China was astonished to learn that the incident has caused heavy Chinese casualties. The CPC and the Chinese government attaches high importance to this. Party and state leaders made important instructions right away. We must spare no effort to rescue the injured, properly attend to follow-up matters for the injured and deceased, promptly find out what happened, conduct in-depth assessment of security risks, and do our utmost to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan activated the emergency response mechanism, kept in close contact with the Pakistani side in both Beijing and Islamabad, and engaged fully in dealing with the emergency. We have asked the Pakistani side to lose no time in conducting a thorough investigation, properly transfer and treat the wounded, strengthen security measures, eliminate security risks, and ensure the safety and security of Chinese personnel, institutions and projects in Pakistan. The Pakistani side has expressed sympathy and condolences in various channels and pledged to do everything possible to rescue the injured and handle follow-up matters to ensure the safety and security of Chinese personnel, institutions and projects in Pakistan. On the same night of July 14, the Chinese ambassador to Pakistan and Pakistan's foreign secretary visited the injured in hospital and conveyed the sympathy and care of leaders from both sides. Today China will send out a cross-departmental joint working group to Pakistan to help with relevant work.

CCTV: On the occasion of the sixth anniversary of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on the Iranian nuclear issue, how does China view the prospect of the JCPOA? What is China's expectation for the negotiations on resuming compliance between the US and Iran?

Zhao Lijian: July 14 marks the sixth anniversary of the JCPOA on the Iranian nuclear issue. The JCPOA, the result of 13 years of painstaking negotiations, is an important outcome of multilateral diplomacy endorsed by the UN Security Council Resolution 2231. It is a classic example of resolving disputes through dialogue and consultation, and a key pillar for upholding the international non-proliferation regime and promoting peace and stability in the Middle East. Joint efforts to safeguard and implement the JCPOA serve the common interests of the international community.

China always believes that the full and effective implementation of the deal is the only effective way to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue. China welcomes the fact that the US seeks to return to the JCPOA. In the meantime, the US side needs to show sincerity by taking concrete actions to regain the trust of the international community. Negotiations on resuming the compliance of the deal have entered the final stage. All parties have shown their political will to reach an agreement, but there are still some differences that need to be bridged. The US should make an early decision to comprehensively and completely lift its illegal unilateral sanctions against Iran and third parties, while Iran should fully resume its compliance on this basis.

As an important party to the JCPOA, China is firmly committed to upholding the authority and effectiveness of the JCPOA and the Security Council resolution, and taking a constructive part in the negotiations between the US and Iran to resume compliance. We will work on all parties to build consensus, bridge differences and bring the JCPOA back on the right track at an early date. No matter how the situation may change, China will always stand on the right side of history, uphold justice, advance the political settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue through diplomatic means, and safeguard the international non-proliferation regime and peace and stability in the Middle East. In the meantime, we will firmly safeguard our legitimate rights and interests.

China News Service: From July 13 to 15, voluntary national reviews were presented at the High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development at the United Nations Economic and Social Council. What message did China send in its review?

Zhao Lijian: On July 14, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi delivered remarks at the second voluntary national review (VNR) on implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. He elaborated on China's new development philosophy featuring innovative, coordinated, green, and open development for all and achievements China made in five areas in fully implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

First, we always take development as our first priority. China has become the only country that has moved from the low human development category to the high human development category. China is the only major economy registering positive growth during the pandemic, making significant contribution to global economic recovery.

Second, we adopt a people-centered philosophy. We eliminated absolute poverty in China for the first time in history, launched an effective response to COVID-19, put in place the world's largest social security network and compulsory education system. People's sense of happiness, fulfillment and security keeps increasing.

Third, we always put into practice our belief in the harmony between man and nature. We have actively implemented the Paris Agreement, improved the industrial structure and energy mix, and embarked on a path of green, low-carbon and circular development.

Fourth, we embrace the trend of openness and win-win cooperation of our times. China has made the biggest contribution to global growth for 15 consecutive years. The Belt and Road Initiative, the China-Europe Railway Express, the green Silk Road and digital Silk Road inject powerful impetus into the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

Fifth, we pursue common development with all countries. China has always forged ahead with other developing countries in the spirit of solidarity. We are committed to deepening South-South cooperation. In the face of COVID-19, China has carried out the largest global humanitarian operation since the founding of New China. We honor our pledge to make Chinese vaccines a global public good and has made an important contribution to global vaccination.

Hubei Media Group: State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended the meeting of the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the SCO-Afghanistan Contact Group foreign ministers' meeting in Dushanbe yesterday. Could you offer us more information on the two events?

Zhao Lijian: At the meeting of the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the SCO, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that China stands ready to build on the momentum of the SCO's 20th anniversary to join hands with other member states and build a closer SCO community with a shared future. He put forward five proposals. First, strengthen solidarity and cooperation to consolidate the political foundation and lead by example in the international community's exploration for a new type of international relations. Second, share weal and woe to ensure lasting peace and security in the region, deepen security cooperation, and coordinate positions and actions on major issues. Third, stand together to combat the pandemic, reject vaccine nationalism, oppose political manipulation on study of origins, and safeguard solidarity and cooperation in this global fight. Fourth, promote openness and connectivity, dovetail development strategies to unleash the potential of BRI cooperation and support a sound economic recovery. Fifth, step forward and jointly reject it when certain countries put unilateralism above basic norms governing international relations, and strive to build a community with a shared future for mankind.

At the SCO-Afghanistan Contact Group foreign ministers' meeting, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that the SCO should endeavor to ensure that the situation in Afghanistan moves in a direction that serves the shared interest of the country and other regional countries. He also suggested efforts to make sure the US fulfills its responsibilities, prevent a resurgence of terrorist forces, advance the reconciliation process, enhance multilateral coordination and facilitate peace and reconstruction in Afghanistan. China will continue to play a constructive role in promoting a political settlement to the Afghan issue on the basis of fully respecting Afghanistan's sovereignty and following the "Afghan-owned and Afghan-led" principle.

Other foreign ministers at the meeting all agreed to take SCO's 20th anniversary as a new starting point to carry forward the Shanghai Spirit, deepen cooperation in various sectors, support peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan, and play a greater role in maintaining world peace and realizing common development.

Xinhua News Agency: State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi paid an official visit to Tajikistan on July 13 local time. Do you have more on that?

Zhao Lijian: During his official visit to Tajikistan on July 13 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Tajik President Emomali Rahmon and held talks with Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Muhriddin, with whom he also attended a signing ceremony for bilateral cooperation documents and jointly met the press.

State Councilor Wang Yi said that China and Tajikistan are friendly and close neighbors and comprehensive strategic partners. With the guidance of the two heads of state, bilateral relations are at their best level historically. China appreciates the tremendous amount of work Tajikistan has done to promote the organization's development during its rotating presidency. Next year will mark the 30th anniversary of the establishment of China-Tajikistan diplomatic relations. China stands ready to work together with Tajikistan to constantly cement political mutual trust, deepen cooperation in various sectors, foster a high-quality and profound community of development, forge an impregnable security community, and jointly safeguard security and stability in Central Asia.

The Tajik leadership extended warm congratulations to the CPC's centenary and commended China's remarkable development achievement. Tajikistan stands ready to deepen all-round cooperation with China, strengthen coordination and cooperation within the SCO, the China+Central Asia (C+C5) foreign ministers' meeting mechanism, CICA and other multilateral frameworks, and jointly work for positive outcomes from the SCO Summit.

Reuters: The Chinese Embassy in Pakistan confirmed casualties. And yesterday we heard that the incident was a bomb attack. However, Pakistan's Foreign Ministry said later that mechanical failure caused the gas leak and a blast. What is China's position on what actually happened? Was it an attack or an accident? Also, is China satisfied with the level of protection that Pakistan is offering Chinese citizens in the country?

Zhao Lijian: We noted the press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan. The incident is still being handled and investigated. China will work in close collaboration with Pakistan to investigate the incident.

China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic cooperative partners with unbreakable traditional friendship and political mutual trust. The two sides will follow the important consensus reached by our leaders, take the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year as an opportunity to maintain close communication and deepen strategic mutual trust, firmly support each other's core interests and major concerns, promote the high quality development of the CPEC, jointly fight COVID-19 and elevate bilateral relations to a new height to deliver greater benefits to both peoples and inject fresh impetus into developing a new type of international relations and building a community with a shared future for mankind.

The Pakistani side has said it places great emphasis on and will continue to take concrete measures to effectively protect the safety and security of Chinese personnel, institutions and projects in Pakistan. We appreciate this. The Chinese side will work together with Pakistan to strengthen security measures for bilateral cooperation projects and ensure the safety and security of all Chinese personnel, institutions and projects in Pakistan.

Shenzhen TV: According to media reports, the Penelakut Tribe in British Columbia announced on July 12 local time that it had found more than 160 "undocumented and unmarked" graves in its residential area, once home to the Kuper Island Residential School. This is the fourth "undocumented and unmarked" graves found in Canada since May this year. Do you have any comment?

Zhao Lijian: The news is shocking and outrageous. The graves discovered one after another have exposed systemic racism in Canada time and again. People cannot help but wonder, how many evils are left buried in Canada.

We noticed that Canadian leader responded that "I recognize these findings only deepen the pain that families, survivors and all Indigenous peoples and communities are already feeling as they reaffirm truth that they have long known". Some foreign netizens commented that the findings must have reaffirmed truth that the Canadian government has long known! Many rapporteurs and human rights experts of the UN Human Rights Council have urged Canadian authorities in a joint statement to conduct thorough investigations into the discovery of mass graves containing the remains of Indigenous Peoples in boarding schools. However, in the face of solid evidence, the Canadian government has made perfunctory responses and even shifted the blame to the Catholic Church. The Canadian side has been trumpeting the readiness to seek truth but has rarely taken real actions. The lip service would only hurt the Indigenous Peoples more. The practice has also fully exposed Canada's hypocrisy on human rights issues.

The Canadian side should show deep remorse and take concrete measures to thoroughly investigate the abuse and discrimination against the Indigenous Peoples, call for accountability and provide compensation, so as to earnestly address its systemic racism.

RIA Novosti: It is reported that the US is looking to setting up a line allowing direct high-level communication with China. The line could allow President Joe Biden to immediately reach Chinese President Xi Jinping through encrypted phone calls or messages. Does China think such a mechanism is necessary?

Zhao Lijian: As far as I know, there are multiple lines between China and the US for the communication of heads of state, and foreign affairs and defense authorities. These lines have been playing important roles throughout the years.

Beijing Daily: The 44th Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee will be held in Fuzhou, Fujian Province, from July 16 to 31. Can you brief us on China's work on World Heritage conservation?

Zhao Lijian: The 44th Session of the World Heritage Committee is the second time China has hosted the annual event in world heritage with milestone significance.

Since China acceded to the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage in 1985, it has been earnestly implementing the Convention with remarkable achievements. China now has 55 World Heritage sites and is one of the countries with the broadest categories of World Heritage sites. Among them, 14 are natural World Heritage sites and four are Mixed Cultural and Natural Heritage sites, the combined number of which ranks first in the world.

China's overall conservation of World Heritage sites is significantly better than the world average. According to the authoritative assessment on conservation of World Heritage by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), 63% of natural World Heritage sites and Mixed Cultural and Natural Heritage sites have a positive conservation outlook, while the number for China is 89%. The IUCN found 7% of the sites in the world in "critical" status, while zero in China.

For more than 30 years, China has been innovating the idea of World Heritage Conservation and improving its management, contributing China's wisdom, solution and strength to World Heritage conservation. China has incorporated World Heritage conservation into national strategy, built a fairly complete system for World Heritage conservation, management and monitoring, made full use of the specialized institutions and new technologies, and provided more and better pathways and approaches for World Heritage conservation. At the same time, China has been actively participating in the global governance in the field of World Heritage, supported UNESCO in implementing the Priority Africa strategy, and provided help to countries including Cambodia, Kenya and Nepal regarding heritage protection and renovation to the best our ability.

China has been conserving World Heritage, the shared asset of humanity, with a great sense of mission and responsibility. China is ready to take this session as an opportunity to have an in-depth exchange and cooperation with all countries in World Heritage conservation and make new contribution to the World Heritage cause.

SCMP: A geospatial imagery firm released a report saying that Chinese ships have been dumping sewage in waters of the Nansha Islands. An official on the Philippine side said the case is under investigation. However, the photo of a ship seen dumping waste accompanying the report was found to have been taken in the Australian Great Barrier Reef in 2014, not a Chinese ship. This has called into question the authenticity of the report. Do you have any comment?

Zhao Lijian: This is one of the best jokes recently. China strongly condemns the US firm who distorts facts, violates professional ethics and maliciously starts rumors to denigrate China. We are ready to work with regional countries to remove disturbances and jointly uphold peace and stability in the South China Sea.

Reuters: The US Senate passed legislation on Wednesday to ban import of products from Xinjiang, citing the ongoing genocide against Uyghurs and other Muslim groups. This policy will require importers to more thoroughly vet their supply chains in China. What is the Foreign Ministry's response to this? Can the ministry give any comment on the potential business impact in China, as well as whether China will be considering any concrete retaliatory actions?

Zhao Lijian: China has stated its position on Xinjiang-related issues on many occasions. The accusation of "forced labor" is a sheer lie. The true intention of the US moves to hype up this issue is to undermine Xinjiang's prosperity and stability, and deprive the people in Xinjiang of the right to subsistence, employment and development. What the US has done amounts to forced unemployment and forced impoverishment. It fully reveals the sinister intention of the US to use Xinjiang to contain China.

On human rights, the US is in no position to lecture others in a sanctimonious way. In the US, there are about 500,000 child farm-workers and many work over 72 hours per week. Tens of thousands of people are trafficked into the US and sold to sweatshops. At least 500,000 people in the US have been subjected to modern slavery. The label of forced labor suits the US better than anyone else.

The US should earnestly reflect on its own poor human rights record, pay more attention to its problems at home, and take concrete measures to deliver benefits to its people. It should stop wasting time and energy in smearing and attacking China by exploiting the issue of forced labor, stop moving forward with the relevant bill and stop manipulating the issue out of political agenda.

Beijing Youth Daily: An opinion piece published by the Washington Post on July 13 criticized the US of hoarding COVID-19 vaccines that leads to severe waste. The article pointed out that the greatest failure of the current US pandemic response is that it has become fixated on the disease at home while giving lip service and responding slowly to the threat abroad. The US attempts to reach the overambitious goal of vaccinating 70% of American adults with at least one dose by July 4. In the process, the government has hoarded vaccines in surplus, putting millions of vaccines on track to expire and end up in the trash. The waste is expected to continue into the fall. The United States purchased a whopping around 200 million additional Moderna doses for boosters, despite no evidence that boosters are needed for the general public. Do you have any comment?

Zhao Lijian: They remind me of a line by Chinese poet Du Fu: "while meat and wine go to waste behind the vermilion gates of the rich, the poor is frozen to death on an empty stomach by the roadside." Now even the US media cannot stand their country's selfish hoarding of vaccines.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that we need at least 11 billion doses to vaccinate 70 percent of the world to reach herd immunity and end this pandemic, noting that there is uneven access to vaccines. Indeed, the international community bears witness to such selfish practice of the US, which severely deprives developing countries of equal access to vaccines. This is not what a responsible country would do. How disgraceful!

The pandemic is spreading in many parts of the world with greater challenges posed by variants of the virus. In this context, the US practice of hoarding and wasting valuable vaccines is no different from strangling developing countries' vulnerable anti-epidemic lifeline. Every dose of the vaccines hoarded and wasted by the US could have been used to save someone's life. When the US throws surplus vaccines in the trashcan, we should not only think about the numbers of vaccines wasted, but also be mindful that the US is walking away from conscience and international responsibility.

China always believes that COVID-19 vaccines should be made a global public good and we need to ensure their accessibility and affordability in developing countries. We stand ready to continue to do our utmost to provide vaccines to other countries and work with all parties to build a global community of health for all and make greater contributions to the global fight against the pandemic.

Bloomberg: The Bloomberg has reported that the US Treasury has no plans to restart the regular China-US Strategic and Economic Dialogue. This dialogue started from 2006, and was halted in 2018 by the Trump administration. Does the foreign ministry have any comment?

Zhao Lijian: The US side is overthinking this.

Global Times: On July 12, Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) reportedly said that the nuclear contaminated water from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant would be diluted with seawater before being released into the sea. However, given that it would take too long to determine the concentration of tritium in the diluted water, TEPCO plans to forsake testing, and instead proposes to determine whether the level of tritium meets the requirement based on the amount of seawater mixed with it. In this scenario, up to 500 cubic meters of nuclear contaminated water would be released per day. On July 13, Japan's Tohoku Electric Power Company announced that the company's Onagawa nuclear power plant in Miyagi Prefecture had a hydrogen sulfide leak on July 12 with seven staff members reporting symptoms of poisoning. These latest incidents have once again raised concerns about loopholes in Japan's nuclear power management. What is China's comment?

Zhao Lijian: Since Japan made the unilateral and erroneous decision to release nuclear contaminated water into the ocean in April this year, there have been a succession of leaks with nuclear waste containers at the Fukushima nuclear power plant. There is now a hydrogen sulfide leak at the Onagawa nuclear power station. We wonder how many more leaks are yet to be discovered.

It is particularly alarming that TEPCO plans to skip testing the level of tritium in the nuclear contaminated water in order to save money and trouble. How Japan handles the nuclear contaminated water from the Fukushima nuclear accident bears on the global marine environment and international public health. It is by no means a private matter of one country or one company. Japan should take the concern of the international community seriously, and mustn't take the liberty of starting the discharge process before reaching consensus with all stakeholders including its neighbors and relevant international institutions.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has recently set up a technical working group on the disposal of nuclear contaminated water from the Fukushima nuclear accident in Japan, with participation of experts from China, the ROK and Russia. With the IAEA technical working group in place, Japan can forget about playing tricks to fool its own people and the rest of the world. Japan needs to stop fudging the issue and dodging its responsibility, adopt a sincere and responsible attitude, and prudently handle relevant issues in an open, transparent and scientific manner. Japan should cooperate thoroughly with the IAEA working group, and mustn't make the world pay for its wrong decision.

Reuters: India's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that the situation between China and India, referring to the border clashes, was not in the interests of both sides, and was hurting the countries' relationship. It followed a meeting between China and India's top diplomats in Tajikistan. I want to ask whether the Chinese side feels this meeting has changed the current situation between China and India at all and whether the Chinese side is participating in any further concrete discussion about solving the issue?

Zhao Lijian: The Chinese side has released information on the two foreign ministers' meeting. You may refer to that.

The Paper: The situation of COVID-19 epidemic has been worsening in Indonesia recently, with biggest daily increase in coronavirus infections globally. You said China will provide urgently needed assistance to Indonesia the other day. Could you share any information on the specific steps China has taken in this regard?

Zhao Lijian: As major developing countries, China and Indonesia have been leading international anti-epidemic cooperation. Early last month, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Indonesia's coordinator for cooperation with China and coordinating minister Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan held the inaugural meeting of the China-Indonesia high-level dialogue cooperation mechanism, during which the two sides reached important consensus on anti-epidemic and public health cooperation.

Our hearts are with the Indonesian side who is faced with pressure in fighting epidemic. This morning, Assistant Foreign Minister Wu Jianghao and Deputy Coordinating Minister Odo R.M. Manuhutu had a Secretary-General Special Meeting under the HDCM to exchange in-depth views on anti-epidemic and public health cooperation. The Chinese government will provide Indonesia with finished product of vaccines and emergency supplies such as oxygen generators and ventilators. Chinese local governments, enterprises and non-governmental organizations such as the Red Cross Society will also provide more support to Indonesia. China will also organize expert exchange meeting to share with Indonesia its experience in vaccination, research on mutant strains and medical resource scheduling. A matchmaking meeting will be held to facilitate Indonesia's purchase of medical supplies in China. In response to Indonesia's request for the building of a regional vaccine production center, China has proposed a roadmap of cooperation and stands ready to work with Indonesia to promote COVID-19 vaccine research and development and whole-industry-chain cooperation, expand other vaccines cooperation, improve people's health and well-being, enhance the accessibility and affordability of vaccines, especially in developing countries and advance the building of a community of health for all.

Indonesia spoke highly of the anti-epidemic cooperation between the two countries, saying that the large amount of vaccine provided by China has played an important role in Indonesia's response to the epidemic. Indonesia thanked China for its timely help at the critical moment of the epidemic in Indonesia and hoped to continue to receive valuable support from China.

China is ready to keep in close communication with Indonesia to properly implement various cooperation arrangement and help Indonesia win the battle against the epidemic at an early date.

AFP: Two questions from AFP. South China Morning Post has reported that authorities in Yunnan have put up border walls and fences to prevent illegal entry from neighboring countries including Myanmar. Can you confirm this and provide any details of China's border enforcement in Yunnan? My second question is whether you have any response to reports that a US military plane landed in Taiwan this week?

Zhao Lijian: On your first question, I'm not aware of the situation. I can assure you that China and Myanmar regulate borders in accordance with law.

On your second question, the Ministry of National Defense has made a response. I'd refer you to the competent authorities if you have more specific questions.
Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, has insisted Princess Diana would be very proud of her sons Prince William and Prince Harry.

The 61-year-old royal  who has daughters Princess Eugenie, 31, and Princess Beatrice, 32, with her ex-husband Prince Andrew  grew up close to the late Princess of Wales, and has said shes confident Diana would be pleased with who her two sons have become.

Sarah believes Diana  who died in a car crash in 1997  would be obsessed with her grandchildren, as well as being equally proud of the two women her sons have chosen to marry - Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex.

She said: "She would be very proud of her sons and their wives. And she would be just like me, obsessed with her grandchildren. Because that's what she loved.

[Diana] adored my girls. She adored the boys. This would be her haven. Her heaven.

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If she were sitting with me right now, I know she would say, 'I am so proud of both of my boys and the wonderful wives they have chosen. Because each has got her own voice."

Sarah  who is affectionately known as Fergie  had been friends with Diana since they were teenagers, and Sarah credits her friend with helping her navigate life in the public eye.

She added: "We were best friends from when she was 14 and I was 15. She taught me so much of public life. She was so brave. We used to have the most incredible time together."

And the Duchess of York also shot down reports that she and Diana had fallen out prior to Dianas death, as she insisted the pair were always strong.

Speaking to People magazine, she explained: "We promised each other we would always be together - there was never any daylight between us. But everybody wanted that, because we were so strong together. People want to break something so strong."
(The Center Square)  Louisiana U.S. Sen. John Kennedy has introduced a bill to limit protections for social media companies that secretly leverage user data to promote divisive content.

Kennedy, a Republican, blasted Silicon Valley behemoths such as Facebook and Twitter for provoking platform users and blamed the manipulative business practice for causing unnecessary social conflict.

Social media giants are using peoples data to manipulate them into spending more time on their sites, but the price is a more polarized America, Kennedy said in a statement. Its time to stop rewarding platforms that use their algorithms to target users with content that plays on individuals emotions without their consent.

The bill would deny legal immunity under the Communications Act of 1934, a Roosevelt administration law that allows Section 230 protections for websites hosting third-party content.

Critics allege the internet-based juggernauts should be defined as publishers under the law, not neutral platforms, and thereby subject to the same regulatory scrutiny as radio- and TV-based companies.

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Kennedy highlighted the use of so-called hot buttons, or selectively identified issues that cause strong emotional reactions, which are then implemented into algorithms to intentionally show users content designed to agitate them.

If these companies wield user data to foment division, they should not continue to enjoy such unfettered liability protections, Kennedy said.

The 69-year-old first-term senator announced his reelection bid in June. He reportedly raised more than $3 million last quarter with roughly $1 million occurring in the past 30 days.

Now in campaign mode, Kennedy posted a Fox News interview to his Twitter account Tuesday  one day after filing the Senate legislation  wherein he decries internet political censorship.

I trust social media like I trust Bill Cosby as a bartender, he said.
NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Compass, Inc. (NYSE: COMP), a leading real estate technology company, today announced its expansion to Indianapolis. The company welcomes 23 top agents representing more than $160 million in 2020 sales volume. Principal agents joining Compass in Indianapolis include: Carrie Holle of The Carrie Holle Group, Greg Cooper and Lisa Phillips of The Cooper Group, Mike Feldman of Bond Real Estate, Erin Hundley, Ben Jones of The Jones Team, and Stacey Sobczak.

"We're thrilled to launch in Indiana with such a high-esteemed group of Founding Agents," said Rachael Rohn, Compass Regional President. "The market-leading agents joining Compass in Indianapolis are known for their exceptional client service, and we can't wait to supercharge their businesses with Compass' proprietary technology and programming. Our continued growth throughout the Midwest region will provide Compass agents with an expanding referral network."

Compass helps agents grow their businesses, serve more clients, save time, and stand out as valued, trusted and professional advisors in their markets. During the first quarter of 2021 Compass had revenue of $1.1 billion, an 80% increase from Q1 2020. While the U.S. residential real estate market grew transactions by 14% in Q1, Compass grew Total Transactions by 67%.1

Carrie Holle brings her team of seven agents to Compass, representing $65 million in 2020 sales volume. The Carrie Holle Group runs one of the highest-producing teams in the metropolitan-Indianapolis area, specializing in the luxury market for both buyers and sellers.

"I have been watching Compass' growth and evolution, and have been impressed with their innovation and forward-thinking approach," said Carrie Holle, Compass Agent, Indianapolis. "After seeing their agent-centric offering first-hand, I knew they had everything I was searching for in a brokerage: unparalleled technology, beautiful marketing, incredible support and services, and the dream team of innovators and executives. Compass will enable me to grow my luxury business in a way I wouldn't be able to anywhere else."

Other agents joining Compass in Indianapolis released the following statements:

"We came to Compass to join the most elite group of brokers in the country. They have technology that's unparalleled, support of their clients that is unmatched and innovation that leads the industry. Compass is the real estate brokerage of the future."  Greg Cooper , Compass Agent, Indianapolis

, Compass Agent, "Compass was the missing puzzle piece that will help take my business to the next level. Every brokerage says they have great support, branding and marketing but none of them aligned with the sophisticated and luxurious image that I was striving for. I'm thrilled and honored to be partnered with a company that is singlehandedly changing the real estate industry for both agents and clients alike."  Mike Feldman , Compass Agent, Indianapolis

, Compass Agent, "We were blown away by the technology platform that Compass provides its agents, as efficiency and ease-of-use for our systems is a top priority. We definitely have a high expectation on design and overall branding and are excited that Compass aligns with the style and vision we have for our business. We are proud and excited to be Founding Agents in Indianapolis and look forward to having an impact on Compass' expansion into the market."  Erin Hundley , Compass Agent, Indianapolis

and look forward to having an impact on Compass' expansion into the market."  , Compass Agent, "Compass is a tech-forward and agent-centric company that puts the agent in the best position possible to serve, work with, and provide the best outcomes to their clients. I'm excited to be a part of the Compass Indy growth from the start."  Ben Jones , Compass Agent, Indianapolis

, Compass Agent, "I'm thrilled to have this awesome opportunity with Compass and honored to be one of the Founding Agents in Indiana . This will offer my clients the newest technology, tools and marketing available and will enable me to provide superior service to my clients in the luxury market. Networking with Compass' top agents in other leading markets across the country will also help to further broaden our services."  Stacey Sobczak , Compass Agent, Indianapolis

Compass also welcomes Michelle Powell as Broker of Record for Indiana. Michelle brings nearly two decades of operational and real estate experience.

Compass is home to nearly 21,000 agents operating in over 50 markets in the U.S. In 2020, Compass agents assisted home sellers and buyers to transact approximately $152 billion in residential real estate. With 4% of the U.S. market, Compass is the largest independent real estate brokerage by Gross Transaction Value.2

About Compass

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Founded in 2012, Compass is a leading real estate technology company, providing an end-to-end platform that empowers its residential real estate agents to deliver exceptional service to seller and buyer clients. The platform includes an integrated suite of cloud-based software for customer relationship management, marketing, client service, brokerage services and other critical functionality, all custom-built for the real estate industry. Compass agents utilize the platform to grow their business, save time and manage their business more effectively. For more information on how Compass empowers real estate agents, one of the largest groups of small business owners in the country, please visit www.Compass.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Statements contained in this press release that refer to future events or other non-historical facts are forward-looking statements that reflect Compass' current perspective on existing trends and information as of the date of this release. Statements containing words such as "could," "believe," "expect," "intend," "will," or similar expressions constitute forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results may differ materially from Compass' current expectations depending upon a number of factors affecting Compass' business, including, but not limited to, expansion into new markets, prevailing market conditions, the impact of general economic, industry or political conditions in the United States or internationally, and risks related to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The foregoing list of risks and uncertainties is illustrative, but is not exhaustive. For information about other potential factors that could affect Compass' business and financial results, please review the "Risk Factors" described in Compass' Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") on May 13, 2021, and Compass' other filings with the SEC. Except as may be required by law, Compass undertakes no obligation, and does not intend, to update these forward-looking statements after the date of this release.

1 We calculate Total Transactions by taking the sum of all transactions closed on the Compass platform in which our agent represented the buyer or seller in the purchase or sale of a home (excluding rental transactions). We include a single transaction twice when one or more Compass agents represent both the buyer and seller in any given transaction. 14% figure based on NAR data as of March 2021.

2 Gross Transaction Value is the sum of all closing sale prices for homes transacted by agents on the Compass platform (excluding rental transactions). We include the value of a single transaction twice when our agents serve both the home buyer and home seller in the transaction.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/compass-expands-to-indiana-301334707.html

SOURCE Compass
Brian Stelter interviews Michael Wolff about the release of his new book "Landslide;" his assertions about Fox News and Rupert Murdoch; the relationship between Fox and Donald Trump; and the state of the media. "I think the media has done a terrible job on this," Wolff says.
The 2024 Republican gubernatorial primary still is nearly three years away, but Fort Wayne businessman Eric Doden is raising money for his campaign as if voters are heading to the polls next week.

Doden announced Wednesday he's raised $938,684 since May 6 when the Valparaiso University Law School graduate shocked many Hoosiers by launching his bid for governor less than four months after Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb was sworn in for his second, four-year term.

State campaign finance records confirm Doden has received $902,500 in so-called large donations, each worth $10,000 or more, primarily from backers in northeast Indiana.

Indiana law requires large donations be publicly reported within one week of receipt. A list of Doden's donations under $10,000 is due to be submitted Thursday to the Indiana Election Division.

Doden, who served as president of the Indiana Economic Development Corp. under Republican former Gov. Mike Pence, said he's so far spent less than $10,000 on his campaign, and has $928,980 cash on hand ahead of his upcoming, 92-county "Main Street Tour."

"It shows that Hoosiers believe in our vision for a strong future, where Indiana would be well served by my authentic, bold, no-nonsense approach to tackling our states most pressing challenges and pursuing excellence," Doden said.

But Doden hasn't been alone in hitting up Hoosier Republicans for big donations over the past couple of months.

Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, who is term-limited in her current post and expected to seek the state's top job in 2024, has raised $182,500 in large contributions since the May 18 primary from supporters in southwest Indiana, according to state campaign finance records.

Support Local Journalism Now, more than ever, the world needs trustworthy reportingbut good journalism isnt free. Please support us by making a contribution. Contribute

Records show Crouch also started the year with $659,452 in her campaign account. So she and Doden likely are even for cash on hand when donations to Crouch worth less than $10,000 are added to her total.

Notably, Holcomb has collected nearly $70,000 in large donations since May, records show. Holcomb also had $1.77 million in campaign account at the end of last year.

Watch Now: Riding Shotgun with NWI Paramedics

The governor likely is a long way from endorsing a successor. But records show Crouch donated $2.5 million to Holcomb's gubernatorial campaigns in 2016 and 2020, and she instantly would dominate the actual and potential field of GOP gubernatorial candidates in fundraising if Holcomb chooses to return the favor.

Republican Attorney General Todd Rokita, a Munster native widely believed to be eyeing the governor's office, received no large donations in the first half of the year, according to state campaign finance records.

Though Rokita recently has been sending frequent fundraising email messages seeking donations of as little as $5 to help him stave off the threats to "Hoosier values" he claims are posed by "liberal Democrats" and "federal overreach."

Rokita had $380,000 in his campaign account at the end of last year, records show.

Get to know these new Indiana laws enacted in 2021
Police in Nairobi have arrested a self-confessed child killer and recovered the bodies of two of his victims in Kabete area.

The suspect, 20-year-old Masten Milimu Wanjala, admitted to kidnapping two children in Shauri Moyo area of Nairobi. The kids  Charles Opindo Bala, 13 and Junior Mutuku Musyoka, 12  went missing on June 30 and July 8 respectively.

Following his arrest, Wanjala led detectives to the scene where he killed the children in cold blood and dumped their bodies.

Prior to his capture, Milimu Wanjala had contacted Musyokis mother Felista Wayua demanding Sh50,000 ransom for her sons release.

He had also contacted Opindos father, Tony Opindo, asking for Sh30,000 to free the child. The suspect is believed to have abducted Opindo on his way from the Sagaret Primary School in Majengo.

The bodies of the two children were found near Kabete Approved School.

Detectives from the Buruburu Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) visited the scene and conducted forensic analysis and took photos of the scene.

Nairobi Region police commander Augustine Nthumbi said investigations were ongoing to establish if Wafula was working alone. The suspect is believed to have killed over 10 children.

The suspect could have been together with other people. We are working hard to know if there were other players in this murder. We are investigating a murder incident, he said.

Detectives are interrogating the suspect to establish the whereabouts of the other children he is believed to have kidnapped and executed.

The arrest comes amid rising cases of abductions across the country
Veteran Kenyan lawyer John Khaminwa has offered a helping hand to the fugitive cop Caroline Kangogo on the condition that she surrenders.

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has tasked the experienced Senior Counsel with seeking court orders to stop police from arresting corporal Kangogo.

I urge her to turn herself into our law firm (Khaminwa Law firm) as we are ready and willing to represent her. It is in her best interest that she should receive the full protection of the law assisted by the Law Society of Kenya and by our law firm, Khaminwa said.

Another condition the lawyer has attached to his offer is that Kangogo must surrender the weapons she is said to be in possession of to the police or to any of Khaminwas law firm offices in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Malindi.

Khaminwa said the anticipatory bond he is seeking will allow Kangogo to tell her side of the story and have a fair hearing.

She should not be arrested under any circumstances. If it becomes necessary for the police to interrogate her, they will do so without arresting her and if the police intend to take any further action against her in court of law they are at liberty to do so, the lawyer told the press at the Milimani Law Courts.

It may very well be that she is not responsible. She has not shot anybody at all. We havent heard her side of the story

It may very well be that she is sick and she needs medication. Thats quite possible, the lawyer reasoned.

John Khaminwa wants Caroline Kangongo to surrender to avert any danger she may be facing.
President Uhuru Kenyatta, in his capacity as the Chairman of the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA), has endorsed the appointment of two special envoys to help accelerate the fight against malaria on the continent.

The two nominees of ALMA, Amb Anthony Okara (Kenya) and Prof Sheila Tlou (Botswana) were endorsed and commissioned by President Kenyatta today at State House, Nairobi during a virtual meeting convened to receive ALMAs 2021 first and second quarter performance report.

As part to their broad mandate, the envoys have been tasked to work with the continents regional economic communities including the East African Community (EAC), Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to prioritise the fight against malaria in their programming.

The report was presented to the President by ALMA Executive Secretary Joy Phumaphi at the meeting also attended by Health CS Mutahi Kagwe and the organizations senior advisor Dr Willis Akhwale.

President Kenyatta applauded ALMA for the progress made towards the establishment of a digital malaria repository for the continent saying the database will assist African nations to share best practices.

I congratulate the ALMA secretariat for keeping the fire burning in the fight against malaria despite the challenges brought about by Covid-19 pandemic, President Kenyatta said.

The Head of State expressed satisfaction that his stated agenda of digitization, adoption of country scorecards and the establishment of 15 multi-sectoral End Malaria councils was on track.

He particularly commended ALMA for the growing involvement of Africas youth in the fight against the tropical disease, and called for the establishment of a continental youth army to boost anti-malaria efforts.

We need to involve the youth to ensure we are able to keep our agenda against eradicating malaria on course despite the Covid-19 pandemic, the President said.

On capacity building of African countries through training, President Kenyatta commended ALMA saying the organizations efforts had led to the increasing adoption of anti-malaria scorecards by African nations.

The ALMA scorecard for accountability and action tracks malaria as well as reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health (RMNCAH) and neglected tropical diseases (NTD) indicators on the continent.
At DEFEA 2021, which takes place from 13 to 15 July, the Israel Shipyards displays a model of the Reshef-class vessel. The Israeli company is one of the largest shipbuilding and repair facilities in the eastern Mediterranean.

A model of Reshef-class vessel (Picture source: Navy Recognition)



The Reshef Class vessels, will be based on the ISL S-72 proven design.

The SAAR 72 is a multi-mission vessel using a modular design, in Corvette configuration, she can be used to conduct naval warfare missions. In OPV (Offshore Patrol Vessel), she can be armed with lighter weaponry.

The SAAR S-72 is a stealth multi-purpose corvette derived from the Saar 4.5 missile boats fully designed by Israeli Shipyards. The ship has a length of 72 meters and a displacement of 800 tons. She has an endurance of 21 days with a crew of 50 people including officers and sailors. It can also accommodate 20 passengers or commandos.

The SAAR 72 are powered by two shaft power plant consisting of two MTU 16V1163M94 V16 diesel engines with a capacity of 5920 kW. The ship can reach a maximum speed of about 30 knots and has a cruising range of 3,300 nm (5.500 km).

The vessels will significantly empower the Israeli Navy capabilities in the future combat field and will assist in protecting Israels Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) as well as the off shore oil & gas facilities within Israels territorial waters. All combat systems on board the new ship will be of Israels defense industry produce.

Israel Shipyards Ltd. is one of the largest privately-owned shipbuilding and repair facilities in the Eastern Mediterranean. Its main offerings cover SA'AR class missile corvettes, including SAAR 4, SAAR 4.5 and SAAR S-72, Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs); Fast Patrol Craft, including SHALDAG MK II  MK V; commercial ships; tugboats and multipurpose boats.

In recent decades, the company has built and delivered a large number of these vessels, which are in active service with the Israeli Navy as well as in the Navies, Coast Guards and law enforcement authorities of countries around the world.
SC says it will hear on Tuesday application against three-day relaxation in Covid restrictions in Kerala for Bakrid.
Prosecutors seek six-year suspended sentence for Michael Calvey

 screenshot from a video by Moscows Meshchansky District Court

16:42 15/07/2021

MOSCOW, July 15 (RAPSI)  Prosecutors asked Moscow's Meshchansky District Court to sentence U.S. investor Michael Calvey to a six-year suspended jail sentence, RAPSI learned in the court.

Prosecutors also insist that suspended sentences ranging from 4 to 5.5 years imprisonment are to be given to other defendants in the case - Philippe Delpal, Vagan Abgaryan, Maxim Vladimirov, Ivan Zyuzin, Alexander Tsakunov and Alexey Kordichev.

Calvey was accused of a large-scale fraud in a deal on the purchase by Vostochny Bank of shares in First Collector Bureau. However, in December of 2020, investigators changed the charges to those of embezzlement.

Investigators allege that the price of the asset was overstated, and the transaction brought losses to the bank, referring to the audit report of PricewaterhouseCoopers on the deal, which valued the sold shares at 600 thousand rubles ($8,000), what, investigating authorities believe is an indication of a crime.

At the same time, Delpal explained that expert estimation of the value of the shares in dispute made 254 million rubles (about $3.4 million at the current exchange rate), and stated that the assessment could not be complete without the inclusion of the assets associated with the shares; in Delpals opinion in this case the total value makes 4 billion rubles ($54 million).

Calvey denies allegations insisting that the deal was fair as both companies agreed its terms and stood for it, including a person reporting an alleged crime to law enforcement bodies. He noted that a report has been filed with police by a member of Vostochny bank board of directors Sherzod Yusupov. According to Calvey, the real reason of his prosecution is a wide corporate dispute related to the control of the bank by two groups of shareholders: Baring Vostok and stockholders coming from Uniastrum bank, which was reorganized and joined to Vostochny in early 2017.

Baring Vostok company founded by Calvey in 1994 focuses on private equity investments in the CIS and Russia. The company has invested in shares of Yandex, Vkusvill, Tinkoff Bank and other major projects.
Justice Ministry unveils bill prohibiting foreigners from monitoring detainees' rights

 RIA Novosti, Andrey Stenin

11:15 15/07/2021

MOSCOW, July 15 (RAPSI)  Russia's Justice Ministry has introduced legislation prohibiting foreign citizens as well as lawyers and civil servants from becoming members of public monitoring commissions that monitor detainees' rights.

The bill establishes that commissions members cannot be persons who have citizenship of a foreign state or a residence permit or other document confirming the right to permanent residence of a citizen of the Russian Federation on the territory of a foreign state. Also, members of the commissions cannot be lawyers, persons holding government positions in the Russian Federation, positions of the federal public service, deputies of representative bodies of municipalities, officials of local self-governments, elected officials of local self-government, the Ministry says in the statement.

The document also changes the requirement for non-profit organizations that have the right to nominate candidates for such commissions, by reducing the period for carrying out human rights activities by such NGOs from 5 to 3 years.

Moreover, the bill contains provisions establishing independence of commissions from state authorities, local self-government bodies, state and municipal organizations, as well as the inadmissibility of interference in their activities on the part of political parties, as well as international and foreign organizations.

The proposed amendments are to be made to the federal law on public control over observing of human rights in places of detention and on assistance to detainees.
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Remarks on Letters Opposing Politicization of Origins Study by 48 Countries to WHO Director-General

2021/07/16

Q: On July 15, 44 countries submitted a joint letter to the WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on the origins study of virus that caused COVID-19 and 4 other countries sent separate letters. In the letters, they welcome the report of the WHO-convened global study of origins of SARS-CoV-2: China Part, stress that the study of origins is a matter of science and oppose politicization of this issue. What is China's comment?

A: Forty-eight countries have sent letters to the WHO Director-General on the issue of origins study, stressing that the virus is the common enemy of mankind, and it can only be defeated by solidarity and cooperation of the international community. They welcome the publication of the report of the WHO-convened global study of origins of SARS-CoV-2: China Part and believe that the global study on origin-tracing should be based on and guided by this scientific report. They point out that study of origins is a matter of science, and should be conducted around the world by scientists. They emphasize that origins tracing shall not be politicized and call on the WHO Secretariat to cooperate with member states to advance the study of origins around the world in accordance with relevant resolution of the World Health Assembly.

Since the beginning of the epidemic, China has taken a scientific, professional, serious and responsible attitude in tracing the origins of the virus. China takes the lead in working with the WHO in global origins tracing. Since last year, we have invited WHO experts to China twice to carry out origins study. Earlier this year, authoritative international experts from 10 countries including the US, UK, Japan and Australia formed a joint expert group with their Chinese counterparts. They conducted a 28-day joint study in China, during which they jointly analyzed data, conducted field trips, paid visits and had exchange of views to keep building science-based consensus. With concerted efforts, this joint study has delivered positive results and produced many important conclusions. On March 30, the WHO officially released the report of the WHO-convened global study of origins of SARS-CoV-2: China Part. The formulation of this report follows WHO procedures and adopts a scientific approach. It is authoritative and science-based and has been widely recognized and respected by the international community. It has laid a sound foundation for advancing global origins tracing. China's open and transparent attitude on tracing the origins of the virus has also been fully recognized by international experts.

However, for quite some time, a handful of countries, led by the US, have been stigmatizing the epidemic, putting a geographical label on the virus and politicizing the origins study. They blatantly disregard the achievements scientists made together and turn a blind eye to science and truth for their own selfish interests. They publicly clamor for investigations conducted by intelligence agencies and falsely accuse China of not being transparent and cooperative by all means regardless of the facts. These actions have seriously disrupted and undermined international cooperation in global origins study, created great difficulties and obstacles for countries to fight the epidemic and save lives, and aroused wide dissatisfaction and opposition in the international community.

Developing countries, in the joint letter, have voiced overwhelming support for justice, which stands in stark contrast to the moves by the US and a few other countries coerced by it to seek political manipulation, reject science and distort facts. This fully reflects what is the shared aspiration of the international community and where the justice lies. It fully demonstrates that those who are impartial and objective, champion fairness and justice are in the majority. We urge relevant parties to stop politicizing the issue of origins tracing, stop using this issue to scapegoat others and shirk responsibility, stop deliberately undermining international cooperation on global origins study. They should adopt a truly responsible and scientific attitude, and work with the international community to make due contributions to defeating the virus and protecting peoples health and well-being.
James Marshall Banagan, 90, died on July 13, 2021. Known to many by his nickname, Jimmy, he was born in Palmer, Maryland on April 9, 1931. He was the son of the late George Marshall Banagan and Hilda Morris Banagan. He attended Holy Angels School and was a 1948 graduate of St. Mary's Academy. Jimmy joined the Coast Guard in November of 1954 and went in the Coast Guard Reserves in January 1955. He was employed by C & P Telephone Company from 1956 to 1976.



Jimmy married the love of his life, Dot, on September 29, 1956. In 1971, Jimmy and his wife, in partnership with Eddie and Patsy Bailey, opened B & B Maintenance of Maryland Inc. in Bushwood. When he and Dot retired in 1986 the business was passed on to the next generation when they turned it over to her niece Julie Buckler and nephew Greg Payne. Over the past 49 years, through hard work and dedication, the business has grown into the leading maintenance service provider in Southern Maryland.



Jimmy was an active member of his community and his contributions numerous. He worked at Holy Angels Church dinners, served on the St. Clements Hundred Osprey Gala Committee, 7th District Optimist Club 1st President, Charter President (1968), Lt. Governor (1969-1970), Optimist of the Year (1986) and Blessing of Fleet (Chairperson/Co-Chairperson). 50-year Charter member of 7th District Optimist Club (2018), Admiral of Chesapeake Bay (1975) Charter Member 7th District Fire Department (1948-1949), Judicial Nominating Committee (16 years) Judicial Nominating Committee Chairperson (four years), St. Mary's Agriculture & Seafood Commission (three years), Aquaculture Advisory Committee (three years), Treasurer, Commissioner William E. Bailey (2 terms), St. Mary's County Nursing Home Board (six years), St. Clements Island Board (14 years), St. Clements Hundred Osprey Gala (five years), appointed to Democratic Central Committee, American Legion Post #221 (50 years), Boy Scout Master (10 years), Sacred Heart Church Cemetery Committee, and Democrat of the Year 2005.



Jimmy and Dot were both distinguished alumnae of SMA and were recognized as pillars of the community by St. Mary's Ryken High School for their outstanding contributions to improve the quality of life in their community. Jimmy was active in Democratic politics. When Eddie Bailey ran for St. Mary's County Commissioner, Jimmy was his campaign treasurer. Eddie was elected to two terms and Jimmy enjoyed the down-home exposure to politics. Jimmy also served on Johnny Wood's fundraising committee for over thirty years. As a staunchly loyal democrat, he could be found working the polls faithfully. Jimmy was a man of the world with many interests and hobbies. There wasn't a subject you could bring up that he didn't have some knowledge about.



He loved to share stories of what he learned of other cultures on his travels. Antiques (That Oyster Can Collection was his pride and joy!) and collectibles including their history and why they are important, bird watching, taxidermy in his younger years, scouting and his role in founding the Sea Scouts, horticulture, and the history of the 7th District and Potomac River are just a few of the varied interests Jimmy enjoyed talking with other like-minded folks about. With his wealth of knowledge about so many topics, you were fortunate if you got seated by him at a dinner party. He was a great conversationalist! He traveled extensively throughout the United States and enjoyed his trips to Australia, China, Italy, Alaska, Africa, and Ireland.



Jimmy was predeceased by his wife of 50 years Dorothy Gass Banagan. Although he had no children of this own, Jimmy considered his nieces Jackie Payne Norris and Julie Payne Buckler his "Number Ones." The family is receiving friends on Monday, July 19, 2021 from 9:15 am to 10:30 am at Holy Angels Catholic Church, Avenue, Maryland where Optimist Prayers will be said at 10:30 am. A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 am. Interment will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Bushwood, MD. Pallbearers will be Steven J. Bailey, William E. Bailey, Jr., J. Greg Payne, R. Christopher Gass, David B. Cullins, Jerry W. Cheseldyne. Honorary pallbearers will be 7th District Optimist Club.



Contributions may be made to St. Clements Hundred, P.O. Box 71, Colton's Point, MD 20626, and St. Mary's Ryken High School, 22600 Camp Calvert Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650.
On June 7, 2021, NASAs Juno spacecraft flew closer to Jupiters ice-encrusted moon Ganymede than any spacecraft in more than two decades. Less than a day later, Juno made its 34th flyby of Jupiter. This animation provides a starship captain point of view of each flyby. For both worlds, JunoCam images were orthographically projected onto a digital sphere and used to create the flyby animation. Synthetic frames were added to provide views of approach and departure for both Ganymede and Jupiter. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS

On June 7, 2021, NASA's Juno spacecraft flew closer to Jupiter's ice-encrusted moon Ganymede than any spacecraft in more than two decades.

Less than a day later, Juno made its 34th flyby of Jupiter, racing over its roiling atmosphere from pole to pole in less than three hours. Using the spacecraft's JunoCam imager, the mission team has put together this animation to provide a "starship captain" point of view of each flyby.

"The animation shows just how beautiful deep space exploration can be," said Scott Bolton, principal investigator for Juno from the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio. "The animation is a way for people to imagine exploring our solar system firsthand by seeing what it would be like to be orbiting Jupiter and flying past one of its icy moons. Today, as we approach the exciting prospect of humans being able to visit space in orbit around Earth, this propels our imagination decades into the future, when humans will be visiting the alien worlds in our solar system."

The 3:30-minute-long animation begins with Juno approaching Ganymede, passing within 645 miles (1,038 kilometers) of the surface at a relative velocity of 41,600 mph (67,000 kph). The imagery shows several of the moon's dark and light regions (darker regions are believed to result from ice sublimating into the surrounding vacuum, leaving behind darkened residue) as well as the crater Tros, which is among the largest and brightest crater scars on Ganymede.

It takes just 14 hours, 50 minutes for Juno to travel the 735,000 miles (1.18 million kilometers) between Ganymede and Jupiter, and the viewer is transported to within just 2,100 miles (3,400 kilometers) above Jupiter's spectacular cloud tops. By that point, Jupiter's powerful gravity has accelerated the spacecraft to almost 130,000 mph (210,000 kph) relative to the planet.

Among the Jovian atmospheric features that can be seen are the circumpolar cyclones at the north pole and five of the gas giant's "string of pearls" - eight massive storms rotating counterclockwise in the southern hemisphere that appear as white ovals. Using information that Juno has learned from studying Jupiter's atmosphere, the animation team simulated lightning one might see as we pass over Jupiter's giant thunderstorms.

The camera's point of view for this time-lapse animation was generated by citizen scientist Gerald Eichstadt, using composite images of Ganymede and Jupiter. For both worlds, JunoCam images were orthographically projected onto a digital sphere and used to create the flyby animation. Synthetic frames were added to provide views of approach and departure for both Ganymede and Jupiter.

As planned, the gravitational pull of the giant moon has affected Juno's orbit, resulting in the reduction of its orbital period from 53 days to 43 days. The next flyby of Jupiter, the 35th of the mission, is scheduled for July 21.

More About the Mission

JPL, a division of Caltech in Pasadena, California, manages the Juno mission for the principal investigator, Scott J. Bolton, of the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio. Juno is part of NASA's New Frontiers Program, which is managed at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, for the agency's Science Mission Directorate in Washington. Lockheed Martin Space in Denver built and operates the spacecraft.

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University of Iowa physicists have gained new insights about the sun's electric field. The researchers measured electrons streaming from the sun, a main constituent of the solar wind, to determine the boundary in energy between electrons that escape the sun's clutches and those that don't. CREDIT Jasper Halekas lab, University of Iowa

As the Parker Solar Probe ventures closer to the sun, we are learning new things about our home star.

In a new study, physicists led by the University of Iowa report the first definitive measurements of the sun's electric field, and how the electric field interacts with the solar wind, the fast-flowing current of charged particles that can affect activities on Earth, from satellites to telecommunications.

The physicists calculated the distribution of electrons within the sun's electric field, a feat made possible by the fact that the Parker Solar Probe jetted within 0.1 astronomical units (AU), or a mere 9 million miles, from the sun--closer than any spacecraft has approached. From the electrons' distribution, the physicists were able to discern the size, breadth, and scope of the sun's electric field more clearly than had been done before.

"The key point I would make is you can't make these measurements far away from the sun. You can only make them when you get close," says Jasper Halekas, associate professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Iowa and the study's corresponding author. "It's like trying to understand a waterfall by looking at the river a mile downstream. The measurements we made at 0.1 AU, we're actually in the waterfall. The solar wind is still accelerating at that point. It's really just an awesome environment to be in."

The sun's electric field arises from the interaction of protons and electrons generated when hydrogen atoms are stripped apart in the intense heat generated by fusion deep within the sun. In this environment, electrons, with masses 1,800 times less than that of protons, are blown outward, less constrained by gravity than their weightier proton siblings. But the protons, with their positive charge, exert some control, reining in some electrons due to the familiar attraction forces of oppositely charged particles.

"Electrons are trying to escape, but protons are trying to pull them back. And that is the electric field," says Halekas, a co-investigator for the Solar Wind Electrons, Alphas, and Protons instrument aboard the Parker Solar Probe, the NASA-led mission that launched in August 2018. "If there were no electric field, all the electrons would rush away and be gone. But the electric field keeps it all together as one homogenous flow."

Now, imagine the sun's electric field as an immense bowl and the electrons as marbles rolling up the sides at differing speeds. Some of the electrons, or marbles in this metaphor, are zippy enough to cross over the lip of the bowl, while others don't accelerate enough and eventually roll back toward the bowl's base.

"We are measuring the ones that come back and not the ones that don't come back," Halekas says. "There's basically a boundary in energy there between the ones that escape the bowl and the ones that don't, which can be measured. Since we're close enough to the sun, we can make accurate measurements of electrons' distribution before collisions occur further out that distort the boundary and obscure the imprint of the electric field."

From those measurements the physicists can learn more about the solar wind, the million-mile-per-hour jet of plasma from the sun that washes over the Earth and other planets in the solar system. What they found is the sun's electric field exerts some influence over the solar wind, but less than had been thought.

"We can now put a number on how much of the acceleration is provided by the sun's electric field," Halekas says. "It looks like it's a small part of the total. It's not the main thing that gives the solar wind its kick. That then points to other mechanisms that might be giving the solar wind most of its kick."

The paper, "The sunward electron deficit: A telltale sign of the sun's electric potential," was published online July 14 in The Astrophysical Journal.

###

Contributing authors include Laura Bercic, from University College London; Phyllis Whittlesey, Davin Larson, Marc Pulupa, and Stuart Bale, from the University of California, Berkeley; Matthieu Berthomier, from the University of Paris-Saclay; Justin Kasper, of the University of Michigan and the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory; Anthony Case and Michael Stevens, of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory; and Robert MacDowall, of NASA Goddard Space Flight Center.

NASA funded the research.

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After only missing by a length on Sunday, Daddy Let Me Drive ($9.00) lifted off cover to just prevail in Wednesday's (July 14) top pace at Inverness Raceway.

Rodney Gillis angled the seven-year-old son of I Can Only Imagine into second-over flow behind Eastcoast Invader as Chase N Madi rated a 1:01.1 first half mile. On the second circuit, Daddy Let Me Drive improved steadily in the slipstream of Eastcoast Invader, who pushed clear of Chase N Madi by two lengths off the home turn. But upon cornering for home, Daddy Let Me Drive shifted into another gear, using :28.3 closing speed to nab Eastcoast Invader by a neck in 2:00.1. J J Knights Image, the 3-5 favourite, saved third after being boxed through the far turn.

Donald Beaton, of Port Hood, N.S., owns and trains 21-time winner Daddy Let Me Drive.

The complete results from Wednesday's six-race card are accessible via the following link: Wednesday Results  Inverness Raceway.
Despite being subjected to sustained pressure from Sicario through the entire second circuit of Wednesday's (July 14) featured $11,500 Preferred 2-3 Handicap Trot at Grand River Raceway, Willyorwonthe ($4.10) proved a determined winner  digging deep to preserve the slimmest of victories.

The eight-year-old Angus Hall gelding cleared for the lead from post 4, overtaking Tymal Houdini midway on the first turn and controlling the terms through a :28.2 first quarter. As driver Colin Kelly slowed the tempo nearing a :58.3 half, Sicario, driven by Austin Sorrie, began his first-over ascent from fourth. The two duelled through a :28 third sectional before Sicario stuck his nose in front briefly on the final turn.

Undeterred, Willyorwonthe repelled his outside challenger in a stretch-long duel, reaching by a nose in a seasonal best 1:56.1. Tymal Houdini finished third, beaten a length, after stalking from the pocket throughout.

Kyle Bossence trains 44-time winner Willyorwonthe for Phil Maguire.

The sub-featured Fillies and Mares Preferred 3, which was contested for an $8,500 purse, saw Smoke N Reactor ($8.30) record a pillar-to-post, 1:54.2 victory  also a seasonal mark  in line to owner-trainer J.R. Plante. The seven-year-old AUckland Reactor N mare turned aside a first-over challenge from Emblynette on the backstretch before evading pocket rival Casimir Swamp Girl by a length to score the 10th win of her career and her fifth so far this season.

Complete results for Wednesday's 10-race card can be found via this link: Wednesday Results  Grand River Raceway.
Trainer Dr. Ian Moore has a one-two punch set to fire in the cavalcade of stakes action slated for The Meadowlands on Saturday (July 17).

In the evenings big event, the $700,000 Meadowlands Pace, Dr. Moore will send OBrien Award winner Lawless Shadow to post with Mark MacDonald driving following a headstrong second-place finish by a neck to Southwind Gendry in the elimination.

He was all revved up, Moore told Trot Insider of the noticeable hold first-time driver Mark MacDonald had on the horse. I told Mark [to] put him on the gate. I guess Mark sat a little off [the gate] and he was wanting to go. He had quite a hold of him. Hes all excited [for the final]  he texted me at about two oclock in the morning with the draw list, continued Moore. We drew pretty decent and he likes our chances, and I guess I do too.

I gave him two days off, said Moore of his son of Shadow Play. I was planning on going home Sunday and coming back maybe Wednesday or Thursday, but its not going to work out for me. I was worrying about it, but Im not going to worry about it now. Everything will have to wait.

Lawless Shadow lands in Post 5 for the 2021 Meadowlands Pace Final with Dr. Moore potentially having a couple of changes in store for the sophomore.

The only thing I thought  and Im still thinking about it  is that Lawless [Shadow] seemed to level off down the stretch there, and then when Perfect Sting came on the outside of him he came back. So I thought about opening him up, Dr. Moore said, but I dont know if Ive got enough [nerve] to do that. I might do it the week after the Golds, but I thought about opening him up so he could see a little more. As it stands right now, he wears a closed bridle, but the blinds on him Ive got them set back so theyre right on the edge of his eyes. Im thinking about it.

The field for the $700,000 Meadowlands Pace, an open event for three-year-olds, that takes place Saturday, July 17 (post time, 9:46 p.m. [EDT]) at The Meadowlands, with post position, horse (driver, trainer), and morning line odds.

1. Perfect Sting (David Miller, Joe Holloway) 7-2

2. Hellabalou (Andrew McCarthy, Eddie Dennis) 8

3. Chase H Hanover (Brian Sears, Scott Cox) 15

4. Southwind Gendry (Yannick Gingras, Ron Burke) 3

5. Lawless Shadow (Mark MacDonald, Ian Moore) 10

6. Rockyroad Hanover (Dexter Dunn, Tony Alagna) 15

7. One Eight Hundred (Tim Tetrick, Nancy Takter) 9-2

8. Abuckabett Hanover (Andrew McCarthy, Tony Alagna) 15

9. Charlie May (Brett Miller, Steve Carter) 5

10. American Courage (Matt Kakaley, Travis Alexander) 10

The Meadowlands Pace marks one of the last stateside stakes engagements this month for Lawless Shadow, who Dr. Moore said will ship back to Woodbine Mohawk Park following the final.

Because of the schedule of January and February, I didnt pay him up to many U.S. stakes early, Dr. Moore said. So the next one he was in is the Hempt at Pocono, but thats not until the middle of August. When hes done there, hell be coming back. I think Century Farroh doesnt have anything until the first of August too, so I may bring him back home too.

Last seasons OBrien Horse of the Year, Century Farroh competes a few races before his stablemate in a division of the $265,400 William Haughton Memorial. The five-year-old son of Mach Three enters off a fourth-place finish in the $113,000 Roll With Joe by 1-1/4 lengths while pacing his final quarter in :25.4 off a pylon-skimming trip for a mile in 1:48.4-- his fastest performance of the year.

I think Dave wasnt expecting that [fast final quarter], which is why he left him in. I'm hoping he wont leave him in this week.

Century Farroh has drawn Post 2 on Saturday, with his Haughton division set for Race 7.

1. Ana Afreet N (TBA, Jeff Cullipher)

2. Century Farroh (David Miller, Ian Moore)

3. Brassy Hanover (Brian Sears, Jeff Cullipher)

4. Backstreet Shadow (Tim Tetrick, Ron Burke)

5. Angers Bayama (Andy McCarthy, Tony Alagna)

6. Allywag Hanover (Tim Tetrick, Brett Pelling)

7. Stars Align A (Joe Bongiorno, Jenn Bongiorno)

8. Ruthless Hanover (Brian Sears, Tom Cancelliere)

9. Warrawee Vital (Brian Sears, Ron Coyne)

10. Catch The Fire (Scott Zeron, Todd Luther)

To view the entries for the card, click the following link: Saturday Entries - Meadowlands Racetrack.
Birlasoft announced that it has achieved Advanced Consulting Partner status in the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Partner Network (APN). Achieving AWS Advanced Consulting Partner status further strengthens Birlasofts cloud portfolio and will enable the company to leverage AWS to accelerate its enterprise clients digital transformation journeys.

With over three decades of enterprise digital and IT services experience, Birlasoft has pioneered various transformational projects for global customers. Through strategic investment in the cloud, Birlasoft has been instrumental in helping clients meet their business goals in an accelerated manner and enabling them to deliver improved experiences to their end customers.

As an AWS Advanced Consulting Partner, Birlasoft will continue to build new solutions and offerings on AWS for its clients, including end-to-end transformation services with special focus on Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Application Modernization, and Large Data Centre Migrations. Leveraging its domain depth combined with AWS cloud, Birlasoft will make focused investments in developing platforms and solutions for industries where the need for digitalization is much higher and will enable speedier transformation.

Ajit Singh Chawla, SVP and Global Head  Digital Business Unit, Birlasoft said, Birlasoft is actively engaged with its customers in their digital transformation journeys. Cloud adoption is key to that transformation, and we are delighted to extend our relationship with AWS. This Advanced Consulting Partner status is a testimony of our capabilities and continued commitment towards investing in technologies that help us build transformative solutions. Our partnership with AWS will enable us to accelerate the value delivery to our customers who are setting their sights on cloud transformation initiatives to make their organizations resilient, agile, and sustainable in the long term.

Mitali Biswas, CIO, CK Birla Hospitals said, Birlasoft has been a trusted partner for us in our digital journey. Birlasoft migrated our PACS software, Electronic Medical Records, and Images to AWS, enabling anytime, anywhere access of the patient records to our medical staff, which increased our effectiveness and efficiency to treat patients during this pandemic. They also helped us with adopting AWS Cloud, getting the maximum value from our investment. Now, as an AWS Advanced Consulting Partner, Birlasoft will be able to further accelerate our digital transformation and add value to our business.

Jasjeet Singh, Head Partner and Alliances, India, AISPL said, Cloud-enabled digital transformation is a strategic priority for organizations in India. Through Birlasoft, an AWS Advanced Consulting Partner, our aim is to equip these organizations with the tools to make the transition to the cloud confidently, with Birlasofts proven consulting and technical skills and AWS leading cloud services and migration experience supporting them.
Hitachi announced that it has completed the acquisition of GlobalLogic Inc. (GlobalLogic) pursuant to the terms of the definitive agreement signed on March 31, 2021. As announced in the press release dated March 31, Hitachi Global Digital Holdings LLC (HGDH), a U.S. subsidiary of Hitachi, has acquired 100% of the outstanding shares of GlobalLogic Worldwide Holdings, Inc. (GlobalLogic Worldwide Holdings), the parent company of GlobalLogic, and GlobalLogic Worldwide Holdings and GlobalLogic have become wholly owned subsidiaries of HGDH.

With more than 21,000 professionals working in engineering centers, and design studios around the globe, GlobalLogic specializes in advanced digital engineering, experience design, and data services to help clients accelerate innovation and the development of new digital products and experiences, through collaborative creation on a global scale. The acquisition of GlobalLogic will enhance Hitachi Groups ability to deliver on its strategy to promote Social Innovation Business through digital technology to solve the issues faced by customers and society. In addition, Hitachi Group will be able to further accelerate the digital transformation of social infrastructure on a global scale by expanding its core Lumada digital solutions business globally.

GlobalLogics capabilities combined with Hitachis Lumada will enable GlobalLogic to deploy Hitachis extensive library of digital solutions to the global market and help customers and societies solve their issues through agile application development in the cloud. Furthermore, Hitachi expects collaboration between GlobalLogic and Hitachis five sectorsIT, Energy, Industry, Mobility, Smart Life, and its automotive systems business (Hitachi Astemo) will add tremendous value to its wide range of products, adding advanced digital technologies, and creating new Lumada solutions. Through these efforts, Hitachi and GlobalLogic will work together to address the growing market for digital innovation, and promote the global expansion of the Lumada businessadvancing Hitachis mission to increase social, environmental, and economic value of customers by focusing on three key areas of Environment, Resilience, Security & Safety, and contribute to realize a sustainable society.

Toshiaki Higashihara, Executive Chairman & CEO, Hitachi Ltd., said, We are very pleased to welcome GlobalLogic to the Hitachi Group. Hitachi aims to become a global leader in the social innovation business by accelerating digital transformation of social infrastructure by combining the innovativeness of GlobalLogics advanced digital product engineering and experience design capabilities with the reliability that Hitachi has established in mission-critical fields. Through collaborative creation with customers around the world, Hitachi and GlobalLogic will work together to resolve issues faced by society and customers leveraging Lumada and contribute to improve peoples quality of life by focusing on three key areas of Environment, Resilience, and Security & Safety.

Shashank Samant, President and CEO of GlobalLogic, said, Joining the Hitachi Group creates a unique opportunity to bring together the power of Operating Technology (OT), Information Technology (IT) and IoT/Digital Engineering under one umbrella. We are excited to join forces with Hitachi and eager to forge our combined talent and experience in domain and digital to create innovative outcomes for our clients, and greater value for society.
Sonali Kulkarni, Lead  Financial Services, Accenture in India, said, The investment outlay towards digital payments is a welcome inclusion in the Union Budget. As per a recent Accenture research report, in India, 66.6 billion transactions worth USD 270.7 billion are expected to shift from cash to cards and digital payments by 2023. This shift is expected to intensify the existing competition in the Indian payments space and ultimately, enhance consumer experience and convenience. However, the exact nature of the scheme of the outlay and its implementation will be instrumental in its success. We are seeing some notable innovation coming out of Indias fintech ecosystem  be it for digital payments, credit and risk management, underwriting or security. The initiative to set up a fintech hub in Gujarat International Finance Tech-City (GIFT) will spur investment and innovation designed to help financial institutions not just meet compliance requirements but also build more-personalized customer products and services. The move to set up a new asset reconstruction company and an asset management company to take care of stressed assets of banks will facilitate more options for banks to manage their NPAs as the true impact of the pandemic on NPAs is still unclear, and is expected to be fully known only by Q1 FY2022. The disinvestment and privatization related announcements related to the banking and insurance sectors will enable much needed capital infusion, and thereby, unlock new growth opportunities in FY 22.

Lt. Gen Dr. SP Kochhar, DG, COAI, said, We welcome the budget as it is pro-investment and pro-growth. It will provide the much-needed impetus to economic growth post the pandemic and will set us on the path to becoming Atmanirbhar Bharat. However, we are a bit disappointed that concerns of the telecom sector, which is the backbone of digital India, remained unaddressed. We were expecting a reduction in the burden of levies, such as LF and SUC on the telecom sector. The Government has also not considered the request of the Industry to exempt the GST from the payment of Govt Levies such as LF, SUC and spectrum installments etc. As the telecom operators are going to launch 5G services in the country, it is imperative that 5G enabled telecom equipment are available to them at a reasonable price. Thus, there was the need for a reduction in customs duties on telecom equipment. It would have been a much awaited relief if the government provided the right incentives to the sector. We will continue to engage with the Government in these areas in the times to come.

Vinu Cheriyan, CFO & Director Operation at Sennheiser India, said, For 2021-2022 Union Budget, the government has made some notable announcements that are aimed towards the overall development on the ease of doing business. The central government plans to create manufacturing global champions via PLI scheme in 13 sectors will help the manufacturing sector to double its growth rate, which will end up creating huge job opportunities across. Additionally, the Government of India has chosen a big infrastructure push by allocating budgets to construct national highways which will improve the connectivity in tier 2 and tier 3 cities. This will further help in ensuring seamless movements and deliveries across India, thus strengthening the overall development of industry and commerce, further giving a push to the audio accessories industry in India . We appreciate the governments initiatives and look forward to a fruitful year ahead.

Mr. Rajeev Singh, Managing Director  BenQ India, said, A very significant budget as India is coming out fast from effects of COVID 19, Government has given strong emphasis on spending on Infrastructure along with big push for Atmanirbhar Bharat. Alongside, there is no change in direct taxes largely which were moderated for companies last time. This will mean more money in the system and will act positively towards faster growth of economy. Government has also given additional push to education and skill development segment in the budget which will result in extensive use of technology which in turn will give a boost to virtual classroom and Blended and Hybrid Learning.

Mr. Ranga Reddy, CEO, Maveric Systems, said, The finance minister has given a boost to the economy through higher allocation to Infrastructure and health; thrust to the manufacturing sector and higher quantum to social welfare schemes. The governments move to earmark INR1,500 crore to provide financial incentives to boost digital payments is a positive step. This will massively help in giving a fillip to the digital payments ecosystem in the country. Financial technology will continue to serve as the backbone to help make this possible. The plan to increasingly use AI, ML, and data analytics in the year 2021 is very encouraging. While some rationalization has been done on indirect taxes, direct taxes have been left untouched save the withdrawal of tax benefits on merger and acquisition. Overall, I believe a very positive and bold step towards developing a strong foundation for a fast-paced economy.

Supria Dhanda, Vice President and Country Manager for India, Western Digital, said, I would like to congratulate the Government on its first paperless budget to push India in its digital journey. The economic survey highlighted Indias aspiration to compete on Innovation with the top ten economies. Allocation of INR 50,000 crore for the National Research Fund for next five years is a definite step towards boosting the research ecosystem in a coordinated way. Focus on Innovation and R&D, coupled with the PLI for electronic manufacturing schemes lays down a very strong foundation in building a self-reliant digital India. We are confident that the technology industry will join hands with the Government in its plan to enhance manufacturing capabilities and expand R&D centres.

Mr. Rahul Agarwal, CEO & Managing Director of Lenovo India, said, The six pillars of the Union Budget 2021 add enormous value to the economic relief post the pandemic issues and paint a futuristic picture for the new year. It has managed to address some of the key issues around Atmanirbhar Bharat, education and Digital India that presents significant business opportunities for global corporates such as Lenovo. With the PLI scheme announced along with the increased focus on Make in India in this budget, we are confident that it will encourage local manufacturing, and further bolster the local PC market. Lenovo will also support the government in enriching Indias economy, by boosting digital infrastructure in the field of education and additional focus on promoting inclusive development. The national education policy also creates an opportunity to build the Indian EdTech ecosystem to make it best across the globe for research & innovation, and empowers the citizens to scale up their skills.

Mr. Dipesh Kaura, General Manager, Kaspersky (South Asia), said, The budget for FY 2021- 22 was one with the aim to achieve and enhance our countrys top priorities, by investing in the healthcare sector and major infrastructures. Enhanced healthcare systems, extensive research and development, and major infrastructure developments are definitely the need of the hour and have been effectively taken care of by the budget allocation set by our FM. The goal to empower 15000 schools and adapt to a hybrid education model is also a very promising step taken towards the digital transformation of the country. However, to make this a success, securing the hybrid education system is equally important, especially in the near future. While pursuing a hybrid model of learning (in-person and remote), the educational sector continues to attract the attention of cybercriminals on the Internet. From July to December 2020, 270,171 users globally encountered various threats disguised as popular learning platformsan increase of 60% when compared to the first half of 2020. These numbers state the growing need for cybersecurity and why it is important to build a robust and secure digital infrastructure for the education sector. Similarly, cybersecurity tools will also be needed for the seamless functioning of advanced technologies like deep analytics and artificial intelligence that the government plans to use to identify tax evaders, fake billers and for the digital census. The newer technologies can be used considerably for sectors like BFSI, healthcare, education, and can help in extensive R&D, provided that they are used with utmost security so as to avoid their misuse by cybercriminals who are capable of creating more chaos than one can expect. It will be interesting to see Indias education and other sectors further progressing towards digitalisation in the next 1-2 years, and cybersecurity experts and companies like us will be glad to help the country secure this digital future at every step taken forward.

Mr. Vikas Garg, Chief Financial Officer at Paytm, said, The Finance Minister has presented a balanced budget that is aimed at maximum growth of all sectors in the coming year. The Rs.1500 crore proposed scheme to incentivize digital payments is a welcome move that will accelerate the growth of cashless transactions in our country. During the pandemic, digital payments emerged as one of the key enablers of empowerment at the grassroots and brought millions of people under the fold of the formal economy. Governments continued emphasis on increasing investment in Infrastructure, Insurance and digital payments will ensure financial inclusion of the masses.

Mr. Sanjay Gupta, Vice President and India Country Manager, NXP Semiconductors, said, The Union Budget 2021 has been the first-ever digital budget marking a major milestone in the digital journey of India. The budget has put the much-needed focus on Atmanirbhar Bharat and the need to grow the innovation and R&D sector in the country on a sustained basis. We are excited about the announcement of INR 50,000 crores for the National Research Foundation over the period of five years. This will surely boost the overall research and innovation ecosystem of the country. R&D is the lifeline for any organization and any country to continue to prosper in changing dynamic times. In India, we have to focus parallelly on design-in-India in addition to Make-in-India to continue to be ahead of the curve. Looking forward to having more and more companies leverage this increased R&D budget from govt and develop future researchers and Innovators. The voluntary vehicle scrapping policy would play a major part in phasing out the old and unfit vehicles thereby encouraging uptake in environment-friendly means of transport like electric vehicles. Overall, we are hopeful that Budget 2021 will propel India in the direction of becoming a global economic superpower.

Mr. S Sriram, Chief Strategy Officer at iValue InfoSolutions, said, Budget 2021 was positive given the challenge around higher fiscal deficit due to lower income. It is great to see emphasis on growth front keeping fiscal deficit priority low for the next 2-3 years. The key highlights of the budget include additional allocation to health and wellbeing in a Covid ravaged year with Rs 35,000Cr allocation to Covid vaccination with 4 Indian vaccines shortly. It is also great to see 35% enhancement of Government capital expenditure at Rs 5.54 lac Cr to revive economy around Road, Rail and Metro infrastructure. It is encouraging to see focus around disinvestment with 2 PSU banks and 1 Insurance company being planned for the year with Rs 1.75 lac Cr target. FDI in insurance enhancement from 49% to 74% augers well for a country with very low penetration. The voluntary vehicle scrapping policy is set to help auto sector and address the pollution challenges. While Rs 20,000Cr PSU bank recapitalisation looks on the lower side, reopening of IT assessment cases period reduction from 6 to 3 years should give comfort to tax payers on documentation. Planned LIC IPO should set the mood right on disinvestment. The government could have put more money in the hands of people to sustain the recovery along with sops to Business on CapEx investments.

Mr. Prashanth GJ, CEO at TechnoBind, said, Increased spend on Healthcare and Infra are welcome moves  as this will have a cascading effect on the economy in the medium term. Whether it is Highways or Railways the enhanced allocation is very encouraging. Also interesting is the Bad Bank which will help address the stressed assets through an ARC model. This will help keep the Banking system insulated from the spike of bad loans that are expected now  thereby allowing them to do business as usual by giving the much-needed support of credit in the system. The MSME allocation has been doubled  this too will help SME businesses in general which is a big market for us in the country. Support for furthering the idea of Digital India is also seen and it is very welcome  encouraging digital payments and the use of AI/ML in governance is exciting. Emphasis on Digital Payment is very good as this will go a long way in bringing in financial inclusion. Provisions in the GST and customs duty rationalization is something we look forward to.

Mr. Shibu Paul, Vice President  International Sales at Array Networks, said, The fiscal deficit for 2020-21 was estimated at 9.5% of GDP, the governments aim is to bring it down by 5% of the GDP by 2025-26 which is ambitious and certainly a welcoming initiative. The highlight in this budget is the announcement of the Asset Reconstruction Company and Asset Management Company to help banks tackle bad loans which have been a call by economists for many years. The significance given to the investments and initiatives in the infrastructure development with a few coming under the PPP model will boost the overall development which includes increased investment opportunity from various sectors. The governments proposal to use data analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning-driven for the Ministry of Corporate Affairs database is a boost to the digitalization where the Version 3.0 of MCA-21 includes additional modules for e-scrutiny, e-adjudication, e-consultation and compliance management. Connecting more than 1,000 mandis into E-NAM is an excellent move. Setting up a separate administration structure for ease of doing business would help many organizations from various sectors. The faceless dispute resolution panel would help the citizens by keeping them safe from tax harassment. The importance given to healthcare sector to fight Covid and any future healthcare issues, the stress made in green energy projects like keeping aside Rs 1,000Cr for solar energy and Rs 1,500Cr for renewable energy along with voluntary scrapping policy and the weightage given to education has made this budget wholesome.

Mr. Gurpreet Singh, Managing Director at Arrow PC Network (Titanium Partners  Dell Technologies), said, Regressive rules had certainly affected the ease of doing business for many organizations and start-ups. However, the governments announcement of establishing a separate administrative structure especially for ease of doing business will help many organizations benefit in the future. Revision of the definition of small companies by raising the capital base to Rs 2 Cr from the current limit of Rs 50 lakh will give a big boost to companies affecting their monetary status. Though not much of changes have been made in terms of income tax slabs, the move to make changes in tax evasion has instilled confidence in common man that they would not be facing tax harassment. Earmarking Rs 1,500Cr for promoting digital mode of payment and changing the tax audit limit from Rs 5Cr to Rs 10Cr will benefit many and will allow transparency. Hiking of FDI from 49% to 74% is a good move. The announcement that the forthcoming census would be digital shows the governments initiative to practice what is being preached. On the other end, the emphasis on education, power and infrastructure sector will support the overall development of the nation.

Mr. Rajendra Chitale, CFO at Crayon Software Experts India, said, It is a welcoming move that the government is emphasizing on the implementation of data analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning for the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) database. We also welcome the digitization process and the introduction of e-scrutiny, e-adjudication, e-consultation and compliance management in MCA 3.0. After the adversities of 2020, tax holiday for another year to startups is a commendable move for the government. Again, the tax audit bar raised to Rs 10 cr for those transacting 95 per cent digitally shows the governments commitment towards bringing in greater transparency. Apart from that the governments promise on removing GST anomalies and the amount of Rs 1,500 crore earmarked for a scheme to boost digital payments are other welcoming moves for a stronger digitized India.

Mr. V Satish Kumar, CEO at EverestIMS Technologies, said, The Union Budget 2021 augurs well for the economy and markets overall. With the aggressive investment, monetization, and recapitalization initiatives, the Government is taking steps towards getting the economy back on the rails. The focus on infrastructure, public transport, and highways will see a jump-starting of multiple tracks of the economy. For the IT Sector, this will translate into an increase in projects, business, and interventions that will be needed to support all these economic programs. Another good move for the IT sector was that the Tax holiday for start-ups has been extended by one year and exemption on capital gains on investment in start-ups extended by one year. India has always been a resilient economy and these efforts will provide the elevation we need to take off and lead in the coming years.

Mr. Sonit Jain, CEO of GajShield Infotech, said, Budget 2021 lays a strong foundation in Infrastructure, Health and Education. It provides a big boost in making India a leader in the World Economy and manufacturing hub of the world. Not only does it give an impetus to easing in doing business in India, it also gives a big push to rural development, which was impacted, the most, during the pandemic. The budget has a vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and will motivate Indian entrepreneurs to make products in India for the World. Overall it is a pro-growth budget and will further fuel the growth of Indian IT companies with its strong focus on Digital India.

Mr. Vivek Sharma, MD  India, Lenovo Data Center Group, said, This is a pro-growth, pro-technology budget with a vision to disinvest where required and re-energize infrastructure, healthcare, banking, and agriculture sectors through numerous employment and capital generating reforms. There is a strong focus on Digital India be it through setting a fintech hub at GIFT city, enhancing digital payments and use of AI, ML etc in governance, or making tax appellates faceless and tech enabled  all provide a solid foundation for a forward looking data-economy.

Mr. Ketan Patel, Managing Director  HP India Market, said, Todays budget announcement confirms governments focus on developing infrastructure and skills which will have short and long term benefits to Indian economy & people. From a technology point of view, the incentives for creating digital infrastructure, education and skilling spells out the governments intent on developing the countrys human capital. Steps like international collaboration to develop new skills will help Indian youth prepare for modern job requirements and make them global ready. The announcement of the National Digital Educational Architecture (NDEAR) is a welcome step, which will help build a Digital First mindset in the entire education system in India and help students and educators adopt new ways of learning and teaching. In addition, we welcome the doubled allocation for MSME sector which will incentivise digital transformation of our small businesses that are the backbone of our economy.

Mr. Rajesh Nambiar, Chairman and Managing Director for India, Cognizant, said, Coming as it does during an unprecedented global crisis, the Union Budget for 2021 is justifiably focused on resetting the Indian economy and enabling it to emerge from the shadows of a prolonged and unforeseen disruption. The accent on improving healthcare, manufacturing and infrastructure as part of Indias mission to drive greater self-reliance will not only create more employment opportunities, but also accelerate the countrys shift towards digital modernisation and transformation that have become a key competitive differentiator in the new normal for businesses and governments alike. Measures such as establishing a world-class fintech hub, and further incentivising start-ups will provide impetus to innovation, entrepreneurship and R&D in the country. Providing financial and tax audit incentives to promote digital transactions is a progressive step that will result in greater transparency and reduced compliance burden. Consistent with Indias towering role in todays knowledge economy, initiatives such as broadening foreign academic collaborations, leveraging synergies between various research institutions, universities, and colleges across India, amending the Apprenticeship Act to provide enhanced post-education apprenticeship and training opportunities to graduates, and moving towards implementing a Higher Education Commission of India will help enhance the quality of education as well as the vocational and industry skills available in the country. The proposed National Digital Educational Architecture is a welcome move to encourage a digital-first mind-set across the countrys education ecosystem for it to reinvent itself and rise to the learning and employability needs of the digital era. Leaving the tax rates alone signals a stable tax environment. Reducing the time limit for re-opening of assessment to three years, setting up a faceless income tax appellate tribunal, and strengthening the NCLT with e-Courts and a conciliation mechanism for contractual disputes will increase corporate and investor confidence by paving the way to greater transparency and expeditious action. There isnt much in the budget for the IT industry, a sector that has done outstanding work to keep essential services rolling in various parts of the world through immensely difficult circumstances. We were hoping for an announcement related to the easing of SEZ rules for the IT industry.

Mr. Rajesh Goenka, Director, Sales & Marketing, RP tech India, said, Overall it is a very pleasant budget without any surprises which is good because in the current scenario consistency and continuity is more important rather than having mere aspirations. This is overall a balanced budget and only enhances the momentum set by our prime minister and finance minister in the last two years. In terms of IT hardware industry, there is no major change, however, with the government investment, the overall market demand is likely to grow up. IMF has also forecasted the industry growth 11 to 11.5 per cent, which is good for the industry. So overall we are optimistic about the budget.

Mr. Hari Om Rai, CMD, Lava International Limited, said, It is a historic budget making a mark of the beginning of a new India. Government has given a clarion call to the industry with the announcement of creating global champions from India and backing this strategy with new, development finance institution. Now the responsibility shifts to the industry to not only dream but dream big and stand together with the government to make the country progress from poverty to wealth over the next three decades.

Dr. Rishi Bhatnagar, President, Aeris Communications, said, I believe that this budget has established the essentialism for the use of technology to make India Atmanirbhar and future ready. As this budget was presented digitally, it has laid the foundation of adopting and using disruptive technologies by all sectors in the country. Today, Artificial Intelligence and IoT technologies are being used by Aeris Indian enterprise clients not only to optimise operations, but also to plug revenue leakages, reduce NPAs and much more. This budget elaborated how the Government is using & promoting technology to achieve record GST collections this year, ensuring good governance and even enabling the very first digital census to be carried out this year, which is indeed a big revolution in Indias census exercise. This will make the process faster, eliminating human errors with the use of mobile application rather than pen and paper. Announcements were also made to enable a global competitive edge with natural growth, for instance, the policy on voluntary vehicle scrapping which will help control air pollution index across cities. This is in-line with our objective of promoting electric/battery-operated variants across the automotive and smart fleet sector.

Mr. Warren Harris, CEO & MD Tata Technologies, said, With a significant outlay on Infrastructure spend and the much-needed Vehicle Scrappage policy, the government of India has finally set the tone for recovery of Auto Sector which has been significantly impacted by the pandemic. This will not only help boost the demand for production of Commercial vehicles but also support the entire transportation ecosystem. Also, while it would have been good to see some more initiatives to promote Electric Vehicles in this budget, we are glad that the government has noted Indias critical role in the global automotive supply chain post COVID 19. Specific initiatives through Production linked schemes, creation of infrastructure for R&D and enabling skill development in new-gen technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) will help drive investment in Engineering and Research .

Mr. Vikas Khanvelkar , M.D, DesignTech Systems, said, This year budget is presented during unprecedented time as mentioned by Hon. Finance Minister (FM) Nirmala Sitharaman. As expected it aims to give a boost to economy by increasing expenditure in many sectors. Hence Fiscal deficit of 6.8% looks difficult but it is achievable through ambitious divestment program announced in the budget. Focus on health by providing Rs.64000 Crores for Swastha Bharat is a good move. Provision of Rs.35000 Crores for vaccination is also a very good step. On Industrial front, extending the already announced Production Linked Incentive Scheme for electronics sector to 13 more additional sectors by providing Rs.1.97 lakh crores over 5 years is a really welcome and great move to support Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative to increase domestic manufacturing. This will give a strong push to grow manufacturing sector and create job opportunities. Mitra scheme for creating world class companies in Textile field will help grow textile exports. Voluntary vehicles scrapping scheme is also very good for automotive sector which was long awaited. Overall I feel the budget is in the right direction to get our economy back on track to take India to 5 Trillion Economy.

Mr. Leo Joseph, Managing Director, Xerox India, said, As expected, the core needs of the economy, coming out of a pandemic-hit year, take prominence in the Union Budget 2021. However, long-term, the budget focuses on the D in India  standing for both development and digitization. The progressive budget lays the roadmap for greater digitization in governance. A budget presented and disseminated in a digital format for the first time to a digital census will pave the way for the government to serve citizens through technology and data more seamlessly. The promise of minimum government, maximum governance can only be realized through greater investments in technology and focus on greater R&D and innovation  which the budget does.

Mr. Rakesh Deshmukh, Co Founder and CEO, Indus OS, said, The announcement of the National Language Translation Mission is a much needed effort by the government to reach our citizens in the language they understand. At Indus App Bazaar, the usage of apps in Indian languages on our platform has increased 2.2 times last year. We believe that with an enhanced app store ecosystem we will be able to break linguistic barriers and adding more value to the next half a billion Indian customers. Moreover, for Atma Nirbhar Bharat to be successful, the focus should be on technology innovation as a whole. We appreciate the governments focus on innovation and R&D in the budget 2021.

Mr. Mike Chen, General Manager, TCL India, said, We do welcome the recent PLI scheme of the government. However, we need to ease up the duty imposed on raw materials keeping in mind the make in India thought. We should also be getting added incentives so that transformative measures can be taken. The industry contributes 25% of the countrys GDP.

Mr. Avneet Singh Marwah, Director and CEO of Super Plastronics Pvt. Ltd, a Kodak brand Licensee, said, Government intends to boost local manufacturing through its announcements in various PLI scheme in next five years. As part of consumer electronics, televisions should be considered to be included into the scheme. Also a dedicated Freight Corridor will be a game changer for supply chain of manufacturing. By spending on infrastructure, India will be competitive at global stage. Like metals, Govt should consider taking back customs duty on panels as there is increase of prices by 300% on the raw materials.

Mr. Rajiv Bhalla, MD, Barco India, said, The budget is a major step in the right direction. It outlays a strong focus on infrastructure, healthcare, capital spending, disinvestment, monetization, job creation and digitization. These measures are not only progressive and recovery-led, if implemented correctly would ease the burden on the economy and lead India towards the projected v-shaped growth and development. The budget talks about structural reforms in banking, enhancing debt financing and credit limits for businesses and asset monetization. This will lead to an increase in government spending, which, in turn will spur demand, therefore net positive for the industry. The several initiatives around job-creation, startups, reskilling, rural development and better quality of services to people are positive as a Nation cannot progress without care for the environment and inclusive all-round transformation.

Mr. Rishab Mehta, CEO & Founder, GrayQuest, said, This years Union Budget was in the spirit of do no harm in terms of any adverse policies being implemented. Broadly, the various decisions laid out in this years budget are more incremental rather than transformational in nature. Accessibility and affordability of education across the weaker economic strata of society has been a perennial challenge in our country, especially this year with the disparity increasing manifold due to lack of online education infrastructure both at school and student level. This years budget has indicated a good intention of progress in addressing this gap. Governments decision to strengthen over 15,000 schools under NEP, set up 100 new Sainik Schools, raise allocation for Eklavya schools in hilly areas etc. will provide a fillip to quality education. This budget has also laid down several measures which are further boosting the cause of both startups and especially fintech startups. Once again, we believe the steps taken relating to startups, although incremental in nature, point towards a long term policy goal of the government to signficantly boost the sector via favourable policies, albeit with incremental steps taken every year instead of a big-bang transformational reform. The decision to extend capital gains tax exemption by another year is another step in that respect. Specific to fintech, the setting up a world-class Fintech hub at Gift city will add impetus and government recognition to the growing relevance of Fintech companies in India, which is essential considering that it is a regulated sector.

Mr. Kartik Sharma, Co-Founder, DcodeAI, said, The governments continued efforts to boost the excellence of education in India is greatly appreciated. With an emphasis on strengthening the Nation First Policy in Union Budget 2021, the government will offer robust remedial solutions that are aligned with the vision of creating a thriving education ecosystem. With a focus on education for all, providing quality education through National Education Policy (NEP), collaboration with Japan for the sharing of technology and knowledge, skilling youth and launch of data analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning driven MCA21 Version 3.0, the government have rolled out incentives to provide impetus to the activities and subsequently to the growth of EdTech as well as of skill-tech enterprises. Such incentives along with funding provisions will create space for collaboration amongst start-ups, especially in the education sector and open up new avenues of career growth for Indian professionals.

Dr. Yogesh Bhatia, Founder, Detel, said, We appreciate the Governments vision of Atma Nirbhar Bharat post the most unprecedented year of 2020. Many domestic players were badly affected and expecting some strong moves by the government. The thrust on automobile sustainability by introducing voluntary scrappage policy will progress the auto sector significantly and curb pollution issues and soaring crude oil bills. This announcement will replace the 15-20 years old pollution causing vehicles and generate massive demand for e-vehicles in the market. We welcome the Indian governments move on long awaited scrappage policy and focus on better road infrastructure. We eagerly await for more details by the government.

Mr. Karthikeyan Natarajan, President and Chief Operating Officer, Cyient, said, Coming out of the pandemic year, the Finance Minister has laid down a well-rounded Budget. Focus on setting up of Fintech Hub at Gift City, enhancing digital payments and use of AI in governance  all provide a strong platform for Digital India. Allocation of Rs 50,000 crore towards National Research Foundation will work towards boosting Indias Innovation Quotient on the global map and is a welcome move. Allocation of funds as incentives for promoting digital payments is also a step in the right direction and a significant step in ease of doing business. Lastly, increase in allocation for highways and railways will lead to employment generation and boost the economic growth of the nation.

Mr. Ramanujam Komanduri, Country Manager, Pure Storage India, said, Budget 2021 looks promising and rightly focuses on public healthcare, given the disruption caused due to the pandemic. We are particularly excited about the Finance Ministers announcement of smooth delivery of digital services as part of the next wave of digital revolution. AI, ML, and Data Analytics are making greater inroads in India, as was observed in the budget. These are all essential elements of the modern data experience. We are looking forward to the next phase of Digital India which will be a big growth driver for businesses and individuals alike.

Mr. Nikhil Rungta, Country Manager, India, Verizon Media, said, This is a get well budget with an expansionary outlook and focused on growth. Given the times it might not be a radical budget, but it is practical and thoughtful, which will propel consumption and growth of business. This budget has also rightly signalled the need for greater inclusion in Indias workforce. Women being allowed to work in all sectors and in night-shifts with adequate protection, and social security benefits extended to gig workers will provide an impetus for women to step up their contribution towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Mr. Suman Reddy, Managing Director, Pega India said, As the first budget during recovery of the pandemic, we are optimistic that the slew of measures announced on healthcare and infrastructure will provide impetus to the economy. The agenda to focus on the six pillars including infrastructure, innovation and R&D clearly sets India on a path of recovery. In a significant break from tradition, Governments Atmanirbhar package focuses on increasing spend towards the creation of jobs and rural development, generous allocations for development schemes, handing more monetary benefits to the common man, and easing rules to attract foreign investments. Enhancing the digital backbone of the country, the announcement on the fintech hub at the GIFT -IFSC and R&D investment of 50,000 crores over 5 years will ensure that the overall research ecosystem of the country is strengthened with a focus on identified national priority thrust areas. The move to establish a National Digital Educational Architecture (NDEAR) in the context of a Digital First Mindset to ensure digital learning, as well as planning infrastructure, will empower the youth of the nation.

Mr. Sudhindra Holla, Director, Axis Communications, India & SAARC said, We are upbeat on the six pillars of the government agenda including focus on infrastructure, innovation and R&D that is all set to strengthen Indias power as a global digital hub. We are optimistic by the renewed focus on road safety with advanced traffic management system with speed radars, variable message signboards, GPS enabled recovery vans along with the outlay of  2.28 lakh crores for developing the highways, roads, and railways. Good to see pertinent steps taken to revitalize the economy with key focus on allocating budget for healthcare, metro railways, ports, airports, and logistics to boost urban infrastructure. These in turn will be stepping stones towards invigorating Smart Cities planning and urban development and help in generating more jobs.

Mr. Nikhil Rungta, Country Manager, India, Verizon Media, said, Taking insights from the learning curve of Covid-19, the government has done well to take appropriate measures to improve the lives of citizens and pave way for economic recovery. This is a get well budget with an expansionary outlook and focused on growth. Given the times it might not be a radical budget, but it is practical and thoughtful, which will propel consumption and growth of business. This budget has also rightly signalled the need for greater inclusion in Indias workforce. Women being allowed to work in all sectors and in night-shifts with adequate protection, and social security benefits extended to gig workers will provide an impetus for women to step up their contribution towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Mr. Balajee Sowrirajan, Managing Director, Samsung Semiconductor R&D (SSIR), said, We are very optimistic with the focus given on Innovation and R&D being identified as one of the key pillars, I believe Design for India will gain momentum and localization of product designs will lead towards an aspirational and Innovative India. These will lead to the next phase of inclusive growth with increased emphasis on skilling and job creation. Furthermore, with a significant increase in Capex from 4.39 lakh crore to 5.54 lakh crore, the Atmanirbhar Bharat Initiative will be strengthened with more focus on domestic manufacturing and production, laying the foundation for the 5 Trillion Dollar Economy by 2030.

Mr. Rajan Navani, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, JetSynthesys, said, Im happy to see the Union Budget 2021 is a forward-looking one, with massive spend commitment by the government across many sectors combined with large divestment and monetisation, along with the privatisation of two public banks and one insurance company. This is a great trajectory for banking in India. Also, the increase in FDI in insurance to 74% with management control will help in attracting FDI from the world, further boosting the economy. Im particularly excited about the governments commitment to set aside an outlay of INR 50000 Cr for the National Research Foundation, the setting up of a new Fintech hub, and an allocation to incentivise digital payments. Also, as we complete 75 years of independence, the move to exempt senior citizens over 75 years from filing tax returns if they are only on pension is a great tribute to their contribution to India. The budget also had a number of bold initiatives to simplify tax processes for businesses and honest tax-payers. The extension of the tax holiday and exemption of capital gains will also enable businesses and startups to focus on growing their business. Most importantly, the proposed use of data analytics, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, optimising the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and tax portals, is indicative of the New India of 2022. I hope this forward-looking budget will help revive Indias economy, propelling it further towards a digitally empowered tomorrow.

Mrs. Kanika Agarrwal, Chief Investment Officer, Upside AI, said, The theme of the budget this time can be summarized in three words: infrastructure, disinvestment and capitalization. These are exactly the areas the government should be focused on so it will, as always, come down to execution. It is important to watch how the government executes its DFIs, PLI scheme expansion, asset reconstruction company, PSU recapitalization. Similarly, it is heartening to hear of the governments intention to minimum government, maximum governance. The overhaul of redundant customs duty structure, GST simplification, higher FDI in insurance, stronger NCLT, single Securities Markets Code and making tax assessments easier are all encouraging signs. Further, it has committed a larger outlay (albeit still only 2.5% of GDP terms) on infrastructure spending across rail and rural. We hope this will get employment back up as the country looks to fill the hole in the economy left behind by COVID. Disinvesting/ privatizing PSUs and insurance companies is the correct move. While the intention to privatize and disinvest has been there nearly every budget, given the difficulty the government has had with this target in the past, we remain cautious on how the centre will balance its books and manage the committed deficit. One area we wish the speech had paid more attention to is the governments AI/ ML strategy. Given the strategic significance of cutting-edge technology on our place in the world in the coming decade, it would have been good to encourage innovation via a scheme, sandboxes, etc in the budget speech. The devil remains in the details, but we are happy with the direction in which the government intends to move with this budget.

Mr. Vaibhav Lall, Founder  Khojdeal, said, The COVID-19 pandemic wreaked unprecedented havoc on the startup sector in the Indian ecosystem. There was a much needed support required by the cash-strapped industry from the Union Budget to take them out of the conundrum. We therefore welcome the FMs decision to extend the tax holiday and capital gains exemption incentives by one more year. Also the initiative to include 1 lakh digital villagers in the next 5 years is great news for businesses with penetration in tier 3 and tier 4 regions. Icing on the cake are the GST provisions provided for SMEs earning less than 5 cr  to file GST only once in the quarter of a year. The budget will not also provide much needed time for start-ups to get back up on their feet but also boost the overall performance of the SME sector.

Mr. Bhaskar Rao Abburu, CEO & Managing Director, iRam Technologies, said, We expected more from the Union budget 21-22. While the focus has been on infrastructure, FM has allocated Rs. 93,400 Crores for roads only, no allocation has been made for development of Smart Cities. Though FM talked about double digit growth of the manufacturing sector for India to become $5 Trillion economy, no roadmap has been laid out for the same. We also need more clarity on how Rs. 2217 Crores allocated for setting up 42 Urban centres to tackle pollution problem will be used. Change in definition of Small companies may benefit some Small-scale companies, provided more support for Small scale companies are announced.

Mr. Nitin Chavan, CEO, Aquapay Payment Technologies Pvt Ltd, said, We welcome the budget presented by the Finance Minister as we believe it offers much for the FinTech space. The proposal to set up Global FinTech Hubs at GIFT and the allocation of Rs. 1,500 crore for promoting digital modes of payment are both measures that will give the sector a boost. Moreover, the incorporation of one-person companies to incentivise innovation in start-ups and the focus on R&D in AI and ML should make for an even more vibrant and thriving start-up environment than we already have today. Lastly, the setting up of a separate Asset Reconstruction syndicate for dealing with NPAs is a much-needed measure. Together with recapitalisation of PSBs, it should set the stage for a much-needed clean up of bank balance sheets.

Mr. Manish Patel, Founder & CEO, Mswipe on digital payments, said, Small retailers and kiranas were instrumental in growing the share of digital payments in India and in providing easy payment solutions to their customers since the onset of COVID 19. The budget provision of Rs.1500 crore to incentivize digital modes of payments comes as a recognition of these very efforts and will go a long way in encouraging Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to switch to accepting digital payments. The announcement by the Honourable Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has met the industrys expectation of providing financial incentives that enable small businesses to adopt digital solutions. As Indias largest POS acquirer and end-to-end digital enabler of SMEs, Mswipe sees this as a great boost for digital payments infrastructure as well as growth in share of small businesses in online commerce. Further, the budget allocation of Rs.15,700 crore to support the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which is more than double of this years budget estimate, is also a positive step. Similarly, the proposed development of a world class fintech hub at GIFT-IFSC is yet another effort in the direction of placing India as a leading innovation ecosystem on the global fintech map.

Mr. Kunal Kislay, Co-founder, CEO, Integration Wizards Solutions, said, Union Budget 2021 has highlighted the governments focus in kickstarting the economy through boosting the infrastructure which in turn will create more jobs. Further, with a heavy budget of 5.4 lakh Cr, we can see the government recentering their attention towards building a stronger infrastructure via highways, railways, ports and energy, considering the high allocation towards MORTH. A robust tech integration would be needed in order to avert health hazards and keep a check on OSH. Additionally, promoting Atmanirbharta through extensive plans for the future of the retail and manufacturing sector which strengthens the fact that boosting the industrial sector was a key driving agenda of this budget. Out of the six pillars for the vision of Atma Nirbhar Bharat, Innovation and R&D stands to be pivotal for the enterprise tech sector. Through the 30-lakh-crore plan set up by the Finance ministry, improved credit access for enterprises is likely to bring about relief in the sector and also encourage the new entrants. The Tax audit threshold has been increased from 5 Cr to 10Cr, which is not a monetary gain but a convenience for MSMEs and startups. The Budget is focused on reviving the growth of our economy that was hampered by COVID.

Anu Prasad, Founder & CEO of India Leaders for Social Sector (ILSS), said, The Education Budget 2021 comes as a much-needed respite for small charitable Trusts amidst post-COVID fund crunch and current compliance structure for the sector. The key focus areas in education: will be effective implementation of NEP, setting up of Higher Education Commission and International research collaboration. These resources and opportunities will empower the youth of our country and our country will benefit from the demographic dividend. The good news for the education sector is that; government channelized efforts towards digitization, be it the additional allocation for MGNREGS, aim for technology-driven education National Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Mission. We strongly believe these efforts will converge into building a holistic blueprint for development on all human development indicators and benchmarks.

Jyotsna Chaman, Co-Founder, Vaaya, said, The COVID-19 pandemic has affected not only the revenues but also the operational functions of the retail sector. While mass-production suffered tremendously as the pandemic continued to spew its wrath, customization was also on a low. This ordeal arises owing to auxiliary issues such as mass job losses, decrease in purchasing power, et al. Overall- revenues declined but expenses were constant, if not hiked. Recuperating from this deep blow would definitely require support from the Union Budget. While Make in India is a well-thought out initiative, the prowess to carry it ahead comes from digital and man-power advancement, which are main asks from the budget. This would also help to ensure seamless supply chains that would add to profits. Additionally, there is also an immediate need to simplify as well as reduce GST slabs so as to ensure participation from the retail sector and increase collection. The rollout of National Retail Policy is long awaited and would provide a framework and direction to the Indian retail sector- another important expectation from the budget. Incentives can be rolled out to new entrants into the industry so as to encourage them to create a niche for themselves and also contributing to Indias economy on the whole.

About Vaaya: Vaaya is a sustainable and body-positive clothing brand that embraces simplicity, comfort, beauty and good design. Each garments story begins at the grassroot level, with handpicking the weavers, dyes, prints, pattern and style, bringing you a unique design that is reflective of traditional Indian artisanal skills fused with modernity. Each piece is handcrafted using indigenous weaves and handwork that stands at the intersection of local and global, classic and contemporary.

Dr. Ajay Data, Founder & CEO, VideoMeet, said, The announcement by the Honorable Finance Minister regarding the startups was much required at the moment and will help the fledgling startups with meager resources to continue with their business operations without worrying about the compliance with complex taxes. The announcement comes soon after Prime Minister announced setting up of Rs 10,000 crore fund for seed funding of startups. These moves by the government make the intent of government clear that it wants to promote entrepreneurship and help the enthusiastic young entrepreneurs in the country. The setting up of separate administration structure to promote ease of doing business is a laudable move by the FM. Also, as predicted startups were given importance under this budget, and the industry is poised to be greatly benefited with the Tax holiday extended by another year till 31 March 2022.

Mr. Dhruv Agarwala, Group CEO, Housing.com, Makaan.com and Proptiger.com, said, Amid a sharp improvement in consumer sentiment with regard to property purchases post the start of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout, the governments move in the Budget to extend the benefit of additional Rs 1.5 lakh tax deduction on home loan interest, until March 31, 2022, will act as a further impetus to the residential property sector. This move will augur well, especially for the affordable housing segment, which will also benefit from the decision to offer a tax holiday for affordable housing projects for one more year, to boost supply. The support announced today by the Honourable Finance Minister for rental housing too will go a long way in boosting the real estate market and will ease a lot of pressure points in the rental home market. This will also help migrant workers to a great extent and will support them in remaining in metros and other big cities during times of financial hardships such as the one presented by the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the long-standing demand of the real estate industry to expand the definition of affordable housing so as to include homes priced more than Rs 45 lakhs in big metro cities, has sadly not been addressed. The infusion of lakhs of crores into Indias infrastructure segment, with a focus on improving connectivity, will be particularly beneficial for Indias housing sector. The proposed debt financing for REITs and InvITs, and the setting up of the Development Financial Institution for augmenting funds for infra and the real estate sector is expected to provide a major fillip to the sector, and will attract more investments in the sector. The proposed extension of the tax holiday for start-ups by one more year, a tax exemption for relocating funds to IFSC, and a tax holiday for the aircraft leasing business in GIFT city, are some of the other measures that would also help Indias real estate sector as a whole.

Mr. Gaurav Shinh, CEO & Founder, DAAS Labs, said, The Budget 2021-22 has left the data science community quite excited for what is to come. For me it was really interesting when the Government announced that it will launch multiple data analytics, AI, ML driven models for e-security, e-education, e- consultation, and compliance management. Also, the prospect of using Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in GST Fraud Tracking is quite motivating and intriguing. The Governments continued support for the startup is quite uplifting as the Government is setting aside Rs 15,700 crore in FY22 and has reduced margin money requirement from 25% to 15% for startups. The proposal of extending the tax holiday for start-ups by one more year will also give more confidence to the entrepreneurs.

Mr. Sai Srinivas, Co-founder and CEO, Mobile Premier League(MPL), said, Governments budget announcement has been extremely encouraging for the start-up ecosystem in India. The extended exemption on capital gains for investments will definitely make more funds available for budding entrepreneurs and growing organizations alike. Digital payments infrastructure has played a very important role in the growth of the mobile gaming industry. It is very encouraging to see the governments efforts to strengthen digital payments through incentivization. The Rs 1,500 crore boost will further support migration of more people towards digital payments and will have a positive impact on the mobile skill gaming industry. The incentivizing of one person companies is especially heartening as it promotes the development of more game creators that will help in strengthening the gaming industry in India. The move has also allowed conversion of one-person companies to any other kind, reducing residency limit from 182 days to 120 days. India is at the cusp of creating a wave of mobile gaming unicorns, these measures only support that momentum. With these announcements acting as winds in our sails the Indian Gaming Industry can aspire to be the Global Hub of game development.

Mr. Aditya Narang, Co-founder & MD, SafeHouse Technologies, said, We see this budget as a great step for India to become one of the largest economies. This is absolutely a pro-technology budget with a focus on Atma Nirbhar Digital India. Given the scenario today, we look forward to the government incentivizing AI and Data protection. We hope to see introduction of legislation and regulatory bodies by the government for timely interventions to make cyber security accessible not only to establishments but also for individuals.

Mr. Rajesh Uttamchandani, Director, Syska Group said, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that for a 5-trillion-dollar economy, our manufacturing sector has to grow in double digits on a sustained basis. We welcome the measures exercised by the honorable Prime Minister Shri Modi Ji and his government in the Union Budget towards boosting electronic manufacturing in the country. The government led by Modi Ji has pledged an infusion of Rs 1.97 lakh crore on various PLI schemes over the next 5 years, starting this fiscal. This is in addition to the Rs 40,951 crore towards the PLI scheme to help expand and boost exports. Today, Indias manufacturing industry has tremendous potential to place the country on the global manufacturing map, simultaneously boosting several employment opportunities to Indias youth. Our manufacturing companies need to become an integral part of global supply chains. With a budget of Rs 15,700 crore, which is more than two times that of the previous year, this will help strengthen the MSME sector in terms of productivity development, technology adoption, strengthening of infrastructure and more. As a company, Syska has always been aligned with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat promoting sustainability through our products and creating new job opportunities. The budget has a positive, expansionary approach towards the manufacturing sector, which is reflected through the incentives and strengthening of the PLI schemes provided by the government.

Mr. Kishan Jain, Director at Goldmedal Electricals said, The Union Budget 2021 has provided massive opportunities for companies looking to set up manufacturing facilities in the country. Given our current economic situation across the globe caused by the pandemic, the Finance Ministers decision to infuse INR 1.97 lakh crore towards various PLI scheme is laudable in addition to the Rs 40,951 crore towards the PLI scheme to help expand and boost exports. As correctly stated by FM Nirmala Sitharaman, our manufacturing companies need to become an integral part of global supply chain. Further, the provision of INR15,700 cr towards the MSME sector, will provide a further fillip to the Governments flagship Make in India initiative. As a company, Goldmedal Electricals has always been at the forefront of introducing innovative and sustainable solutions that make our planet not only smarter but also sustainable for generations to come and support governments vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Mr. Niraj Hutheesing, Founder and Managing Director, Cygnet Infotech, said, We welcome the measures announced by the government of India in the Union Budget 2021. Significant capital expenditure in infrastructure and health care sectors will be a big asset for India. Promotion of digitization at large, and digital transactions particularly, is another positive aspect of the budget. There has been political will to take a big deficit for the next year. Simplifying the tax regime is another important aspect of this Budget. To ease compliance, the Finance Minister has increased the tax audit limit from 5 crore to 10 crores for the companies that conduct most of their business through digital modes. Additionally, the government is also planning to take steps to reduce inverted duty structures in GST and has proposed to review over 400 old exemptions in indirect taxes and will begin extensive consultation from October 2021. The budget also provided impetus on one of the most hard-pressing issues, namely tax evasion cases. The use of digital technologies such as automation solutions and data analytics tools can help in removing anomalies in the GST tax infrastructure and make it transparent to a great extent. All the measures announced today will further enable companies such as Cygnet Infotech to develop technology solutions for businesses to help them adhere to the taxation norms.

Mr. Gaurang Sinha, Director of Go-to-Market Strategy at Flock, said, We welcome the Finance Ministers announcement to introduce the scheme allowing 1-person company(s) for start-ups and innovators to be exempted from paid-up capitals and turnover norms, in the Union Budget today. This will enable India to develop new technologies and boost employment like never before. Additionally, the governments move towards boosting emerging technologies such as the internet of things (IoT), machine learning (ML), artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics, will accelerate the growth of our digital economy. Further, the adoption of video conferencing for various tasks by the Government will encourage the use and demand for professional communication and collaboration platforms. We believe that with all of these measures, this new decade looks great for the Indian start-up ecosystem.

Mr. Kapil Makhija, CEO, Unicommerce, said, We appreciate the governments continued push towards digitization and strong infrastructure. The focus on development of roadways, dedicated freight corridor and airports will provide a great boost to logistic sector enabling faster product movement across the country. The strong road and rail connectivity will also help in making e-commerce logistics more sustainable in smaller towns, leading to higher growth of the e-commerce sector. We are optimistic that the governments focus on encouraging digital transactions and strong push towards manufacturing in India, will boost the e-commerce growth in in the long run. The pandemic led to the acceleration of digitization across levels as online shopping became the new necessity and organizations were seen automating processes with technology solutions to bring in more efficiency. We are confident that upcoming e-commerce policy will provide further support to the industry and encourage MSMEs to join the e-commerce brand wagon.

Mr. Ramesh Mamgain, Country Manager, India and SAARC, Commvault, said, The Union Budget 2021 is sui generis considering that it is Indias first-ever Digital Budget. The gesture of doing away with the paper versions of Budget underlines governments commitment towards PMs Digital India vision. A renewed focus on infrastructure would mean accelerated technology adoption, which cannot be accomplished without data privacy measures, propelled by data protection. This approach would help in strengthening Indias data protection framework to protect individual information, with investments in key technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to secure cloud-based infrastructures. While the capital expenditure on the physical connectivity  road, railway and port  has been highlighted throughout, I am sure that digital connectivity will ultimately become a cornerstone of everything we do in the current times. Overall, it is an inclusive and pro-growth budget, presenting a balanced stance on the pathway to recovery.

Jaya Vaidhyanathan, CEO, BCT Digital, said, 2021 budget is more of an Infrastructure and Healthcare budget. Glad to see the stimulus to the economy keeping these spends in its core. Governance is also paid attention to. We would have loved to see some more announcements for the BFSI sector over and above the notable mentions like FDI limit being lifted for the insurance sector. And Interesting to see the conversation happening to see the shadow bad bank. While the Stressed assets are being moved to the asset recovery unit, we still have to wait and watch. It does make sense to take the assets to specialist to monetize it, but it also has the inherent risk of the bank just moving the bad assets rather than works on preventing issue of bad loans or prevents NPAs. So we have to pay attention to its execution. And it is also to be seen who is going to be at the helm of the asset recovery to ensure that execution happens in the right way. There was emphasis on governance issues , and it goes with the turf of independent directors. So overall largely infra and healthcare, things have not been shaken up much, and attention is paid to economic recovery, but it is yet to be seen if this is a V share or U shape recovery. Let us hope the budget is executed well.

Mr. Sunil Sharma, managing director  sales, Sophos India & SAARC, said, The Governments Union Budget 2021 is built on the foundation of new technologies such as Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML) which will empower businesses with econsultation, escrutiny, and compliance management. This is surely going to enhance enterprise cybersecurity as AI has immense potential to bring in scalable and effective defenses against sophisticated attacks like ransomware. That said, this increased penetration of digital technologies brings with it additional cyber risks that one should be vary of. As per our recent survey, with 100% Indian businesses being concerned about their current level of cloud security, there is a need for initiatives that promote the development of cybersecurity skillsets. Additionally, this reskilling process should also take care of security of cloud environments which are the backbone of the accelerated digital transformation that India is witnessing due to the pandemic. While we welcome the Governments proposed steps in strengthening MSMEs that provide employment to millions of people, we need more impetus on building skilled cybersecurity professionals in the country. The Governments allocation of Rs. 3,000 crore towards skill development that will help reskill Indias youth and boost the overall economy, is a step in the right direction.

Mr. Varun Babbar, Managing Director, Qlik India, said, The Union Budget 2021 is truly a balanced and reformative framework that looks forward to bolstering an economy towards faster recovery and growth which was otherwise ravaged by the pandemic. We appreciate the governments vision of an Atma-Nirbhar Bharat by providing economic assistance through tax reliefs, incentives and new policies. Continued support in areas like education and technology as well as providing breathing room for startups through initiatives like providing tax relief for one more year will help to kickstart a resilient economy for all industries. The governments allocation of Rs. 1500 crores towards promoting digital modes of payment will also boost Indias digital payment infrastructure. Aligning with our focus to provide active intelligence and real-time analytics, the governments allocation for infusion of Rs. 20,000 crores will help to reform the countrys surge in digital payments for the post-pandemic future.

Mr. Dhruvil Sanghvi, Chief Executive Officer, LogiNext said, We welcome the incentives proposed by Honourable Finance Minister Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman. Strengthening global and national supply chains is of paramount importance for economic growth. The proposals to set up freight corridors across the country, as well as the proposal for a future ready rail system, along with development of national highways will bridge the gaps that currently exist, bringing in better connectivity between production and consumption markets. Furthermore, the push towards digitisation along with proposals of the one year tax holiday for startups and extending cap gains tax exemption for investment into start-ups shows the intent towards making it easier to do business in India and push forward on the technology wave.

Mr. Ravi B. Goyal, Chairman & MD, AGS Transact Technologies Ltd., said, Budget 2021 effectively addresses the impact of the pandemic on overall economy. The budgets significant concentration on healthcare, allied industries and economic revival is a welcome move and may provide much needed respite in the near future. The proposed recommendation of allocating INR 1500 crores is a constructive step towards strengthening the overall payments infrastructure and bridging the digital divide in the country. We await more details on how this allocation will be used effectively to accelerate the already remarkable growth of digital transactions in the country. We also laud the Governments move to set up a world-class fintech hub, Gujarat International Finance Tec (GIFT), which will spur innovation, growth as well as boost employment. Additionally, the introduction of two new metro technologies and steps towards building a strong transit ecosystem will go a long way in making India integrated economy.

Mr. Sameer Katole, CEO, Crossloop, said, The Honble Finance Minister laid major emphasis on enhancing domestic manufacturing of electronic equipment. The Union Budget 2021 has a strong focus towards the revival of the economy and extensive plans for Atmanirbhar Bharat. It shows extreme commitment towards a strong comeback for the sectors which faced major backlashes in 2020. The budget covered several demanding issues faced by the economy earlier and with an attention concerning startup community, the extension of tax holiday for start-ups by one more year is an important decision made. This will encourage the survival of startups and give them the required support for bounce back. Further, the increased spending on PLI for electronic manufacturing schemes is a positive sign. The 2.5% taxation on manufacturing of smartphone parts is also a vital decision as it will boost the inclusive growth of the country and further bring major changes in the consumer electronic and domestic manufacturing segment.

Mr. Sanjeev Singhai, Founder of wellnessta App, said, Kudos to our bold Prime Minister, under whose leadership the Honble Finance Minister continues to steer the Indian Economy through difficult times of the pandemic. The stamp of commitment to make India a $5 trillion economy is very evident in this budget as the FM continues with her economic reforms. New announcements to support MSMEs and Startups with policies and reliefs are welcome steps. The announcement of Rs. 10,000 cr fund to support private equity and Rs. 5,000 cr VC Funds for distressed MSME assets along with Rs. 15,700 cr provisions MSME sector showcases Government commitment to support these two sectors. Extension of tax holidays for a year and capital gain exemptions are a welcome step. This will significantly help MSMEs and Startups to regain the lost grounds due to pandemic, step up manufacturing, exports and to create more employment in the country.

Mr. Yashash Agarwal, CEO, Gamezop, said, The proposed broadening of the definition of Small Companies to include those up to Rs. 2 Cr. in paid up capital (as opposed to current limit of Rs. 50 lakh) as well those who have turnover of up to Rs. 20 Cr. (as opposed to Rs. 2 Cr. currently) is meaningful.Companies that qualify as Small Companies are subject to lesser number of compliances in conduct of board meeting, internal financial control reporting, annual return and financial statements, and so on. Hopefully, from here we will see further reduction in compliance burden for startups.

Mr. Surya Phadke, Chairman at Doot said, We welcome the Honble Finance Ministers scheme to allow 1-person company(s) for innovators/startups to be exempt from Paid-up capitals and other norms. Further, the change in the dividend distribution tax laws is welcome and we hope will attract more foreign retail investors in the start-up sector. The government has also marked a change in several sectors to go paperless and reduce the tax-payers involvement in filing of taxes & compliance documents. The tax holiday on capital gains for start-ups has been pushed forward to 31st march 2022 which provides an additional philippe to the start-ups in all sectors.

Mr. Samir Bhatia, Founder & CEO, SMEcorner, said, The Hon. Finance Minister has presented a budget which will provide tremendous stimulus to the economy, and in particular, the MSME segment. Increase in import duties for certain products and rationalization of duties in the case of many items manufactured by MSMEs will help local industry compete against imports and boost their revenues. Besides, other changes such as increasing the limit for tax audit to 10crs of annual turnover for digital MSMEs is a very welcome step. Overall, the budget will provide a major impetus to all sectors of the economy which was much needed. I give 100/100 to this budget!

Mr. Balakrishnan Anantharaman, Vice President and Managing Director, Sales, Nutanix India, said, The outlook for innovation from the 2021 budget remains strong, with a lot more focus on making an Atmanirbhar ecosystem. Today tech startup companies have become the backbone for the growth of the country, we are optimistic about the initiatives taken to strengthen Indias digital drive and to further amplify the digital economy. The impact of the pandemic has forced sectors that operate traditionally to change their models rapidly to support modern trends. Two-thirds (70%) of the public sector are of the opinion that COVID-19 has caused IT to be viewed more strategically in their organisations, and hence the budgets intention to push for innovation and R&D is one step in the right direction for the tech sector, in establishing a Digital First mindset throughout India.

Mr. Diwakar Nigam, Managing Director, Newgen Software, said, The first paperless union budget underlines our governments focus on three key areas, including innovation, skill development, and digital governance. The budget has come with encouraging announcements for the healthcare, infrastructure, and innovation ecosystem. The move to provide a greater impetus to R&D with an outlay of Rs 50,000 crore in the next five years will foster a culture of innovation, growth, and research. Furthermore, the focus on digital education, re-aligning the existing scheme of training programs, and partnering with UAE and Japan for skill development will help India in producing high-quality digital talent. The proposal to build a world-class fintech hub, digitization of railways, and first-ever digital census, reconfirms the governments emphasis on creating a digital economy. Furthermore, the emphasis on technology, such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning-driven platform to enable e-courts and compliance management will go a long way in accelerating the nations digital initiatives. Moving ahead, we look forward to the expansion of the scope of corporate tax across the board, simplification of GST, and special monetary incentives for product software companies.
Keeping pace with the upcoming 5G revolution, OPPO Reno5 Pro 5G was the first 5G-ready smartphone from the Reno series in India with an AI Highlight Video feature. In addition to this, it is the first smartphone in India to be powered by a flagship-level chipset- MediaTek Dimensity 1000+. Offering a 65W SuperVOOC 2.0 Flash Charge and a slim design, the smartphone comes with OPPOs industry-first Reno Glow design. The OPPO Reno5 Pro 5G, with its outstanding features, will empower consumers to Live the Infinite.

Oppo Reno5 Pro 5G Specifications

Brand: Oppo

Oppo Display: 6.5-inch AMOLED panel

6.5-inch AMOLED panel Processor: Octa-Core MediaTek Dimensity 1000+

Octa-Core MediaTek Dimensity 1000+ OS: Android 11

Android 11 Memory: 8GB 128GB ROM

8GB 128GB ROM Back Camera: 64MP + 8MP+ 2MP + 2MP Rear Cameras

64MP + 8MP+ 2MP + 2MP Rear Cameras Front Camera: 32 MP

Battery: 4350 mAh

4350 mAh Colors: Aurora Blue, Moonlight Night, Star Wish Red

Design and Display

The Reno series is often planned, explored every year with new materials and finishes. The OPPO Reno5 Pro 5G has a special back panel with matte blue paint with little specks that shimmer under the sun, identical to stars.

It is a fairly ergonomic device, especially with curved front and back panels, with a thickness of 7.6 mm and a weight of only 173 grams. The cameras are installed in a slightly elevated rectangular box from behind.

A Super AMOLED display with a curve resolution of 6.5 inches with full HD+ and a refresh rate of 90 Hz. On the top left, there is a single boom-punch entry and a fingerprint reader in the monitor below. The HDR10+ is also consistent with a maximum brightness of 1,100nits.

Performance

The OPPO Reno5 Pro 5G is Indias first smartphone to pack the newly announced 1000+ chipset Dimension. It incorporates 5G and can at least be an option to Qualcomm Snapdragon 865, on paper.

The OPPO Reno5 Pro 5G will sport a high-performance octa-core architecture alongside 5G at 7 nm as one of Indias first smartphones to be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 1000+ chipset. Besides the basic 8GB + 128GB version, other variants may also be available.

Software

OPPO recently confirmed ColorOS 11.1 based on Android 11. Fortunately, OPPO Reno5 Pro 5G is one of the first smartphones to introduce this application.

Media Player controls will allow you to adjust the display from the notification bar between the connected audio devices. Touch sensitivity can be adapted during games through the floating Game Space window and boosts overall reaction when playing fast-paced FPS titles.

But its pretty much because everything else stays the same as the beta, including the Flex Drop floating window function that is difficult to run. Nevertheless, ColorOS 11 is the king of versatility and is also configured in terms of regular multi-tasking and software output in the MediaTek chipset. In combination with a fluid 90 Hz monitor, this allows for a silky smooth software interface.

Camera

A Quad-Camera array is on the back of the OPPO Reno5 Pro 5G: a main 64MP F/17 camera, an ultra-wide 8MP lens, a 2MP macro photographer, and a monochrome 2MP. A 32 MP auto shooter is on the front.

Overall quality is impressive for pictures taken during daylight. Also, pictures are clean and sharp, with the right information. Like the Reno 4 Pro model, the camera often appears to magnify. This is not so much about the hardware as it is all about the AI or the program since it just activates the HDR when work is clearly to be performed on the scene. Thats not the case in most scenarios and this allows certain cut-off highlights to be used.

If you shoot a white bowl of fruit or a person in the background. The images are also very good since the algorithms of OPPO ensure the item is exposed correctly. It is just the HDR that occasionally functions a little slow. The new sensor also has better autofocus and a wider dynamic range around the board, as portrait shots and low-light images.

Camera Samples

Battery

The battery life of slim smartphones is typically short. But the Reno5 Pro 5G will impress and offer a whole day of battery life on a single charge, much like the Reno4 Pro. If you play less, youre able to comfortably accommodate a single charge for around one day and a half battery life, which is so slim for the appliance.

The 65 W SuperVOOC loader is more impressive. It has a 4350 mAh battery which fills up in around 30 minutes and half the battery in just 13 minutes, which is the fastest charge rate you get in this section.

Some AI charging capabilities, such as customized night charges, are enabled by the handset. In the afternoon, your phone will learn about your charging patterns and maximize power input to prevent overloading your battery and therefore not degrading easily. You can also maximize power consumption during sleep mode on the phone.

Final Verdict

The interface visual design of the OPPO Reno5 Pro 5G is unique in the market. The Reno5 Pro 5G delivers all the characteristics of a far more costly flagship device from the premium feel of hand to the fabrics. The 1000+ Axis blends all the output you need except for hard games. New tricks in its sleeves have enhanced the software.

Charge rates are fantastic, while the battery capacity is adequate to see the work of the day. The price of the Reno5 Pro 5G is marginally around 35,990. Well, the Reno5 Pro 5G has decent photos, a good build, but will lag a little behind as they face high-end, flagship processors. Hence, the Reno5 Pro 5G is an excellent option if you are looking for quality design, paired with relatively high-performance images and videos from Instagram.
DMCC  the worlds flagship Free Zone and Government of Dubai Authority on commodities trade and enterprise  has completed a European roadshow. Two Memorandum of Understandings (MoU) were signed during the show to strengthen collaboration with key counterparts, attract foreign direct investment to Dubai and showcase the ease of doing business in the UAE.

The roadshow included events in Spain, Monaco, Belgium and The Netherlands with various meetings held with strategic partners at each stage.

Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, DMCC, said: This roadshow forms an integral part of DMCCs ongoing strategy to engage with key markets and stakeholders in line with our mandate of attracting innovators, investors, entrepreneurs and business leaders to Dubai. We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to be on the ground to showcase the potential Dubai and DMCC offer. While our business district continues to grow, with now over 19,000 members, we are seeing increasing and sustained interest from European markets. Through the two partnerships we signed, we are confident that our trade ties will strengthen further and we will be unlocking a host of mutually beneficial opportunities.

The DMCC team met with Jean Castellini, Minister of Finance and Economy - Ministry of State Monaco during the visit to the city to discuss boosting Dubai-Monaco trade opportunities. While in Spain, DMCC signed an agreement with Fomento del Trabajo Nacional, the main employer organisation in Cataluna, to further develop the existing relationship between the two parties and showcase the commercial appeal of Dubai to firms in the region.

David Tornos, General Secretary, Fomento del Trabajo Nacional, said: We have collaborated with DMCC on several occasions and decided to formalise our relationship through this agreement based on our shared goals. DMCCs ecosystem offers great value add to the host of Spanish businesses looking to reach new global markets. We see tremendous potential through this collaboration and we very much look forward to what the future holds.

The second MoU was signed with Rotterdam Partners, an Investment and Promotion Agency in The Netherlands, to cooperate on matters of mutual interest and benefit. The MoU was signed in the presence of the Mayor of Rotterdam, Ahmed Aboutaleb, who welcomed the agreement.

Wilbert Lek, Managing Director, Rotterdam Partners, said: Dubai and Rotterdam have a lot in common, foremost a passion for innovation. Through our collaboration with DMCC, we will offer Dutch companies the opportunity to explore a thriving business and commercial hub in Dubai and we are looking forward to welcoming companies from the Emirates to Rotterdam. We are excited to be working with DMCC and opening doors for businesses in both cities, to learn and grow.

Before concluding the roadshow, the DMCC team travelled to Belgian city of Antwerp to meet with various diamantaires and discuss possible routes of collaboration to drive growth in the international diamond industry.

In Barcelona, DMCC hosted its flagship Made for Trade Live event, in partnership with the UAE General Consulate in Barcelona, Fomento del Trabajo Nacional and Banco Sabadell. Those in attendance had the opportunity to engage with various stakeholders and become better acquainted with the unique opportunities available to connect to global markets through DMCC.

Participants also obtained information on DMCCs Crypto Centre, launched in May and set to be a hub for the development and application of crypto and blockchain technologies. DMCC also had a presence at the 4YFN event, the worlds largest exhibition for start-ups in the mobile industry and attended the Mobile World Congress. -- TradeArabia News Service
Saudia Cargo has won the On-Time Hero Award at the Heroes of the Pandemic Awards 2021 for its remarkable on-time performance in delivering cargo in Saudi Arabia and its global markets.

Under the theme Recognising Excellence in Governance & Logistics, the awarding ceremony held in Dubai on July 12, 2021, brought together in-person the industrys top government officials, executives and decision-makers who joined live and via webcast. The event was organized by Transport & Logistics Middle East.

Saudia Cargos On-Time Hero Award under the Air Transport Category recognises the cargo airlines on-time delivery performance in moving lifesaving medical cargo across continents, including time-and-temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals like medicines, vaccines and other life necessities.

Commenting on Saudia Cargos latest accolade, the cargo airlines CEO Teddy Zebitz, said: We see our role at Saudia Cargo evolving from facilitating trade, to keeping humanity safe. It was a matter of being switched on and fully alert to ensure the supply chains hold intact against this global threat to humanity.

Those shipments, which mainly involved food and medical supplies like masks, PPE, ventilators, PCR test kits, medicines, among other medical goods, were successfully transported from different destinations globally through our dedicated Saudia Cargos team and partners pilots, crew, cargo specialists, people on the ground. They are undoubtedly the heroes of our time.

Since the Coronavirus pandemic emerged, Saudia Cargo stepped up efforts to transport vital medical cargo and other essential goods within and outside of the kingdom using its strategic location connecting the East and the West. By end 2020, it successfully transported more than 500,000 tons of cargo and operated over 6,000 cargo flights.

In line with the recently launched Saudi National Transport and Logistics Strategy where the country is envisioned to become the next global aviation and logistics hub, backed by government and private sector funding totaling $147 billion spread over nine years, Saudia Cargo continues to innovate and widen its network across the world, building on its strength as one of the leading air cargo carriers with robust logistics support. -- TradeArabia News Service
Schneider Electric, a leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation and Aveva, a global leader in industrial software, driving digital transformation and sustainability, said that their combined technology offerings are supporting the sustainability initiatives of mining companies in four key pillars: energy efficiency, yield improvement, low greenhouse emission technology adoption, and new green processes.

The two companies were joined by Rio Tinto, a leading global mining and metals company; Brazilian iron ore miner Vale and IDC for a virtual global media presentation discussing sustainability in the mining, metals and minerals (MMM) industry.The speakers focused on how digitalization and industrial software are making the mining, metals and minerals industries cleaner, safer, efficient, and more sustainable.

Global decarbonization is heavily reliant on the sustainable production of minerals and commodities. A thriving and healthy mining and metals sector is crucial for the global economy and to support the innovation of new technologies and materials needed for climate change reduction, environment protection, and the circular economy.

Schneider Electric and Aveva are providing the tools required by organizations to make informed decisions that will empower people across the mining, minerals, and metals value chains to be more strategic in their choices based on sound advice with sustainability in mind. They are assisting operators and managers in these choices leaving these organizations well positioned to tackle some of the challenges associated with adopting sustainable practices, potentially resulting in reduced operating costs and thus providing the rare ability of appeasing all stakeholders.

According to an IDC Technology Spotlight, sponsored by Aveva and Schneider Electric, Transitioning to Sustainable Mining, Minerals and Metals Practices, the top three market pressures driving the sustainability agendas of mining and metals organizations are: Need to improve brand equity; reduce the risk of an adverse event; and ensure compliance with current and future regulations.

Technology has a critical role to play in supporting mining companies, said Ben Kirkwood, Senior Research Manager, IDC Energy Insights - WW Mining. Efforts to hit sustainability targets and gain greater visibility and control over operations will enable corporate insight and action relating to energy, water usage, and management of the operational environment. IDCs global analysis of the revenue growth and profitability of industrial companies shows that those with a committed and ongoing sustainability-based strategy combined with a long-term, funded, digital transformation agenda considerably outperform their competitors.

The IDC Technology Spotlight also reinforces the fact that as the industry continues to experience backlash from its perceived stagnant position on sustainability, platforms with added analytics are enabling improved operational efficiencies while enhancing the visibility of the changes being made.

Digitally integrated operations can address key areas of an organizations sustainability agenda by combining power and process intelligence and controls, said David Willick, VP North America, Mining, Minerals and Metals Segment, Schneider Electric. Digitalization is a critical evolution for the resources industry, and Schneider Electric and Aveva are uniquely qualified to help. We are experts at marshalling the power of connected systems and human insight to bring operational performance to its highest level. Together, we have won the trust of the worlds leading companies with thousands of implementations onsite and in the cloud. Today our joint customers can benefit from our shared customer-centric innovation culture, unmatched R&D capabilities, and extensive sector-specific expertise.

Although the benefits of digital transformation are crystal clear, the mining industry has thus far been limited by legacy infrastructure, data inadequacies, and piecemeal optimization programs, said Martin Provencher, Industry Principal, Mining, Metals and Materials, Aveva. Increasingly virulent cyberattacks and a growing mandate for decarbonized minerals have further emphasized the importance of having high data availability and embracing a secure, cloud-first approach to visualize and contextualize enterprise-wide processes across global operations. The combination of Schneider Electric's energy management solutions, automation systems and services, and Avevas Digital Mining Transformation solutions enable our customers to transform conventional mining operations into intelligent, resilient and sustainable undertakings.

Paramita Das, General Manager, Global Marketing and Development, Rio Tinto, said if consumers are demanding more sustainable products, customers are also announcing ambitious ESG goals. OEMs, particularly in the automotive sector, are adopting sustainability initiatives faster than suppliers in several high-priority areas. On its part, Rio, is using multi commodity partnerships to solve for ESG.

Gilberto da Cunha Vieira, Electrical and Automation Engineer Leader, Vale, spoke about unifying operations for safety and sustainability.

Corporate Knights recently named Schneider Electric the world's most sustainable company. According to the IDC Technology Spotlight, Schneider Electrics EcoStruxure platform combined with Avevas Digital Mining and Metals Transformation solutions can provide the operational and organizational insight required to make sustainable operations and improved decisions through the collection and analysis of data. The partner companies aim to decarbonize the mining, minerals and metals value chains through the provision of an industrial IoT platform with technology and software elements supporting the capability for energy management and automation.TradeArabia News Service
Microsoft Qatar alongside a global consortium of partners led by Ooredoo joined the Ministry of Transportation and Communications to bring to life the Tasmu Platform, a one-of-a-kind, ground-breaking, smart city solution.

Built on Microsofts highly available, scalable, and secure Azure cloud infrastructure, Tasmu Platforms advanced and intelligent services will evolve the countrys digital ecosystem for all enterprises, start-ups, entrepreneurs, and citizens. The platform functions as a digital marketplace that streamlines the coordination of public services across all five sectors, thus driving the adoption of smart solutions for service providers and service consumers across Qatar. Through the platform, innovators and entrepreneurs can implement smart solutions to improve and facilitate their digital performance within each priority sector, outlining their key performance indicators to meet the needs of the people of Qatar.

Jassim bin Saif bin Ahmed Al Sulaiti, Minister of Transport and Communications, said: At the Ministry of Transport and Communications, our role is to revolutionise and secure our countrys future through research, development, and innovation. For years, we have been deploying innovative solutions and unlocking advanced technologies to provide a positive economic and societal impact on our country. Today, with the launch of the Tasmu Platform, we are bringing to life the backbone of Qatars smart country vision. Built to be a unified authority orchestrating the entire nation, the platform will ensure improved sector alignment, better use of resources, and focused investments. We are incredibly proud of this pioneering smart-city solution, and we strongly believe that it may become a model and blueprint for future smart country projects around the world.

Microsoft as the global technology enabler, brought more than its advanced resilient technologies and renowned expertise; they engaged their highly reputable local and global partner ecosystem including Malomatia as the master service integrator; Delta Partners Group as strategic programme partners; PwC as the international project management office; Accenture as the consulting firm; Tata as the system integrator, Atos as the technology infrastructure enabler and security partner, Oliver Wyman as smart sectors transformation roadmap developer and Deloitte Smart Qatar as programme transformation office operations contractor.

Reem Al Mansoori, Assistant Undersecretary of Digital Society Development, at the Ministry of Transport and Communications, said: Tasmu has been intensifying its efforts to build and sustain a Smart Qatar that is digitally powered and boasts a competitive economic environment to improve the quality of life for our people and visitors. The launch of the Tasmu Platform is a major step in establishing an innovative digital ecosystem in Qatar. It will help build significant partnerships between the public and private sectors to understand and meet the needs of the local community. As we continue to welcome global creators and accelerators of smart cities from around the world to Qatar to revolutionise its digital landscape, there is no doubt that the Tasmu Platform, with its high-tech capabilities that fosters interconnectivity, will soon serve as an international benchmark for smart city developments around the world.

Powered by Microsoft Azure and Internet of Things, the Tasmu Platform is a sustainable, resilient and innovative platform features world-leading data capabilities and strong governance to encourage cross-sector collaboration and data-sharing, while ensuring privacy and security.

Lana Khalaf, General Manager of Microsoft in Qatar, congratulated the Ministry of Transport and Communications for achieving a key milestone in Smart Qatar Tasmu Programme. She said: We are proud and privileged to contribute to Tasmu in partnership with MoTC, Ooredoo and our global partners to enable Qatars Vision 2030. We envision Tasmu as a smart city hub for Qatar and the region that enables diverse solutions for converting data into insights, supporting strategic decision-making and resource management for major entities in Qatar and the region, and helping to deliver a better life for citizens, residents and visitors.

She added: We stand ready, as ever, to work with the government in driving a culture of technology innovation to usher in a new era of socio-economic prosperity, and accelerate the countrys digital transformation agenda. By joining hands to harness the power of integrated cloud-based technologies, people in Qatar will soon have access to facilities that create endless potential value.

The Tasmu Platform forms the foundation of Qatar's digital transformation and aims to be a single point-of-contact for citizens, service providers and other smart city ecosystem players, to enable an end-to-end smart city experience. In the next decade, the Platform will facilitate the launch of more than 200 Tasmu smart solutions and applications across five key sectors: Transport, Healthcare, Logistics, Environment, and Sports.

Sheikh Nasser Bin Hamad Bin Nasser Al Thani, Chief Commercial Officer at Ooredoo, said: We were immensely proud to launch Tasmu Platform and kick-start the phenomenal Tasmu Project that will propel our country towards its goal of becoming the worlds first truly smart nation. As a leading telecommunications operator with innovation firmly at the heart of our strategy, working with some of the worlds greatest technology innovators, we are committed to supporting Qatar National Vision 2030 and the digital transformation of our beloved country. We are proud to be playing such a pivotal role in this inspiring project with our esteemed partners, and extend our gratitude to the government of Qatar for placing its trust in us to deliver Tasmu Platform.

The Platform currently provides more than 80 products and 37 smart city services, spanning across five main pillars: Internet of Things device on-boarding and management, Enablers and accelerators, Smart city value addition, Revenue generation, and Platform support.

The number of services will be enhanced on a continuous basis under the Open Innovation Plan, allowing developers to create, combine, and integrate their smart solutions within the Tasmu Platform. Services enabled can range from helping users get around the city, to paying bills, interacting with government services, making hospital appointments, to managing their smart urban places, homes, and offices, as well as facilitating their lives in a sustainable and a productive fashion.

Smart solutions already operational on the Tasmu Platform include, Virtual Consultation, a Healthcare smart solution developed in partnership with the Ministry of Public Health; the Tasmu Digital Farmer Community, an environment smart solution developed in collaboration with the Agricultural Affairs department of the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) and Tasmus National Food Security Analytics smart solution, which was formed in collaboration with the Food Security department at MME.

To deliver a simple, easy to navigate and an effective customer experience, the Platform will be supported by the Tasmu Mobile Application, available to Qatars residents and visitors.

It is noteworthy that Microsoft has established plans to deliver the intelligent and trusted Microsoft Cloud services from a new cloud data-center region in Qatar with Microsoft Azure, and Office 365, Dynamics 365 and Power Platform. Microsofts cloud spans 60+ announced cloud regions across the globe with Azure available in 140 countries and delivers a comprehensive set of enterprise-grade cloud computing services for developers and businesses of all sizes to create new customer experiences, transform their business and operations and accelerate the pace of innovation.-- TradeArabia News Service
Euro Motors (EM), the official importer of BMW Group vehicles in Bahrain, has announced the launch of its brand-new We Buy Your Car campaign.



For those thinking of selling their used BMW, they can now sell their vehicle directly back to dealership, without having to purchase a new one.



Customers must take snapshots of their used BMWs exterior and interior, as well as photo evidence of the vehicles current mileage. With a rapid evaluation, Euro Motors will send across a competitive price, where each customers payment is 100% guaranteed.



Euro Motors will also be offering trade-in support, ensuring car buyers looking to drive home an all-new BMW model can enjoy up to BD2,000 ($5,275) of savings, a company statement said.- TradeArabia News Service
Pirelli presents its very first high load index tyre: a new type of tyre dedicated primarily to electric or hybrid cars and SUVs.

Made to support the weight of new vehicles equipped with batteries, the tyre is perfect for heavier vehicles, such as electric cars. It is designed to provide low rolling resistance as well as a high level of driving comfort.

The new tyre features the HL (high load) marking on the sidewall as an indication of its capabilities and is able to support 20% more weight compared to a standard tyre and 6-9% more weight than an extra load XL tyre of the same size.

The Lucid Air will be the very first car to use the new Pirelli HL tyres. The Pirelli P ZERO for this model will be available in the following sizes: HL 245/35R21 99 Y XL on the front axle and HL 265/ 35R21 103 Y XL on the rear axle, specifically designed for the new luxury electric sedan produced and sold later this year in the United States of America. In accordance with Pirelli's Perfect Fit strategy, the P ZERO tyres for the Lucid Air have been jointly developed with the car manufacturer, to fully meet the required performance standards. To identify the specific design for the American manufacturer, these tyres will be marked LM1 on the sidewalls.

Pierangelo Misani, Pirelli's Senior Vice President of R&D and Cyber, said: The search for cutting-edge technical solutions has always been at the very heart of Pirelli's business. The attention we devote to all new forms of sustainable mobility now leads us to technology that is capable of anticipating the future demands of car manufacturers for their new electric and hybrid vehicles, which increasingly require specialised performance from tyres.

Lucid Air represents a technological breakthrough in terms of efficiency and performance. The new Pirelli HL tyres are integral to achieving such benchmarks, said Eric Bach, SVP of Product and Chief Engineer at Lucid Motors.

These bespoke P ZEROs will also benefit from Pirelli Elect and PNCS technologies. Pirelli Elect offers low rolling resistance to increase range, reduced rolling noise to maximise comfort, and a compound engineered for grip to respond to the instant toque demands of the electric transmission, as well as a structure capable of supporting the weight of the battery pack.

To further increase interior comfort, PNCS technology which consists of a special sound-absorbing material placed within the tyre, helps deaden air vibrations that would otherwise be transmitted to the inside of the vehicle. The benefits of this system can be felt both inside and outside the car. -- TradeArabia News Service
The Opec+ agreement will be extended from its current March 2022 expiry to December 2022 and from April 2022, the UAEs baseline will rise by 15% from 3.17 million barrels per day (b/d) to 3.65 million b/d, said a report, highlighting the progress made to resolve the Opec+ standoff.



Such an agreement  if formally ratified  would likely come alongside an incremental 0.4 million b/d monthly ramp-up in output from August to December 2021, reported Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG), a Japanese bank holding and financial services company, in its latest Oil Market Weekly.



If the contours of such a deal transpire, then this articulates to markets that Opec+ still remains united around a singular coordinated message with credible (much-needed) tapering of its remaining 5.8m b/d production still subject to curbs in the coming months. This development puts a lid on sustained oil price rises and is on net, neutral-to-bearish, in our view, MUFG said in the report.



Oil price forecasts



We continue to expect a tight global oil market in the near-term, which could push Brent crude sporadically north of $80/b this quarter, the report said.



However, todays oil price strength is tomorrows oil price weakness. US shale is displaying the first signs of recovery and higher oil prices offer the space for tactical producer hedging, fuelling prospects of a shale output return in 2022, while ample spare capacity and a flat, long marginal supply curve restrain the narrative of a bull supercycle.



With this, we believe oil prices are currently hovering close to peak cyclical levels in firm overshoot territory. Our quarterly profile is for Brent to regress lower and end Q3 and Q4 2021 at $73/b and $64/b, respectively, and to average $58/b in 2022. Under the weight of higher Opec+ production, steadily rising shale, the eventual return of Iranian supply, juxtaposed with a more normalised demand profile, we gradually lean short oil further out along the curve.  TradeArabia News Service
Saudi Arabia has launched an initiative at Jeddahs Red Sea Operations Centre to provide tourist yachts with entry licenses in half an hour, a media report said.



The centre assists foreign yacht owners, and their local agents, in Arabic and English to receive licenses to cross into Saudi waters, reported Arab News.



Any request should include the yachts registration, its classification, and its marine radio certification, Hasan Al-Asmari, centre manager commander was quoted as saying in the report.



A list of the names of the onboard staff, safety and insurance certificates are also necessary for applying for a license. In 30 minutes, we reply to the request via email with the license approved.
Help India!



As dozens of Muslim women in India found themselves victims of an online fake auction in which their pictures were shared and circulated on a website under the derogatory Sulli Deals, the incident has left the targetted women in shock and trauma. The victims are now seeking legal remedies to prevent further such incidents.

Ghazala Ahmad and Ubair ul Hameed | TwoCircles.net

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NEW DELHI  After more than dozens of Muslim women in India were put up for sale in a fake auction online by unknown persons, the Muslim women victims have been left scarred by the incident.

The targeted women TwoCircles.net spoke with said the incident has sent a shiver down their spine as they dont even know on how many virtual or physical platforms the pictures were shared and the extent to which their pictures are being misused.

In a shocking instance of growing Islamophobia in India, pictures of over 80 Muslim women were uploaded to a website and put up for sale online in a fake auction, sparking widespread indignation on social media.

The existence of the website was initially brought to light on July 4 when some women on Twitter began sharing their fear and indignation at finding their photos on the website without their consent.

Journalist Fatima Khan wrote, Woke up this morning to realise my name, along with those of many other Muslim women was up on GitHub as a list of Sulli Deals. Thankfully by the time I came across it, it had been taken down. But just the screenshots sent shivers down my spine.

Khan further wrote, How is this acceptable? What will be the punishment, if any, meted out to the people who made this list? Muslim men are lynched, Muslim women are harassed and sold online. When will this end?

The pictures of Muslim women were uploaded to GitHub, which is an open software development platform, under the title Sulli deal of the day. Hindu right-wing trolls use Sulli as a derogatory slang term for Muslim women. Following the outrage, GitHub said in a statement that it has shut down the user accounts following the investigation of reports of such activity, all of which violate our policies.

Although the website was taken down after being mass reported following outrage, a Twitter user, who claims to be Sulli Dealers Right Hand wrote that the website will be back, hours after the website was taken down.

Acting on a complaint by National Cybercrime Reporting Portal, Delhi Police registered the case under IPC Section 354 A (punishment for sexual harassment) against unknown persons on June 7. We sent notices to GitHub to share all crucial details about this website on Wednesday (June 7), Prem Nath, Joint Commissioner of Delhi Police, Cyber Cell, said and added, An FIR has been lodged and investigation is on.

However, for the targeted Muslim women, the experience is nothing less than traumatizing.

Afreen Fatima, who is an activist, and General Secretary of Fraternity Movement, an independent youth organization in India and whose picture was in the list of the Sulli Deals with the caption Sulli deal of the day, told TwoCircles.net that the incident is a result of deep-rooted Islamophobia and desire of Hindu men to have Muslim women that make them do so.

Fatima said that Sulli Deals is not an isolated incident sexualizing Muslim women. This website emerged only 20 days ago and we got to know about it only when our pictures circulated on this website. This is a kind of harassment that is ever existing. It has flourished because it has impunity and support from the establishment and powerful people, she said.

Fatima blamed the Hindu right-wing gatherings for the sexualization of Muslim women. The reason it has come so far is that the Indian right-wing held gatherings and rendezvous where they give speeches furthering sexual violence, rapes and abduction of Muslim women publicly and on record. We have videos where Hindu priests are caught saying that one should rape Muslim women to reclaim that they are real Hindu and nationalist, she added.

Fatima is referring to several Hindu Mahapanchayats held in Haryana recently where hate speeches were made against the Muslim community. On July 4, during one such Hindu Mahapanchayat in Pataudi in Haryana, a young man accused of shooting anti-CAA protesters near Jamia Millia Islamia last year encouraged the crowd to kidnap Muslim women.

Making it clear that all that has happened in the Sulli deals incident is evidence that it is not something new, Fatima said, Anyone who is trying to delink this whole incident from the Hindu majoritys apartheid against Muslims is trying to dilute the gravity of what has happened and is happening. There is filth in Hindu Majoritys mind and blood on all their hands.

Another target of the online fake auction Nabiya Khan, a poet and a Muslim Activist said, People are trying to whitewash this whole issue as women only, which is not. Only Muslim women are on their target, and when we assert this we are branded for dividing women community based on religion. The kind of intimidation and harassment Muslim women face, upper castes Savarnas are not even close to it or the fear we go through.

Khan said that the solidarity that the Muslim women get is fine but those offering solidarity should stop equating our traumas and struggles with theirs.

They enjoy the privilege of being the majority and upper caste. And this can be proved with the outrage we witnessed during the Bois locker room incident. We cant see any such outrage when it comes to Muslims or Muslim women, she said.

Speaking about the response of her family towards the incident, Khan said, My parents are unaware of this. They will be worried if they got to know and will ask me not to upload pictures or remove them. Not because they dont understand the issue, but because they are concerned. And their concern is justifiable. But removing pictures is not the solution. If not pictures, they will use our names next time; they can morph the pictures and misuse it.

Khan said that most of her friends stood in support of her. They condemned the issue and felt outraged because they know the impunity enjoyed by upper-castes Savarnas. Many of them were also victims of the Sulli Deals. We came in solidarity with each other and decided to go legal. We have filed a collective FIR in the case and look forward to action, she added.

Although her pictures were shared online and sometimes this prevents women from sharing their pictures online or going offline, Khan is deterred not to remove her pictures.

We are not going to remove our pictures. If we did, this will give more strength and chances to them to threaten us. We have created this online space to speak for ourselves and others after a long struggle. We cant let it go due to some faceless trolls. Our activities on the internet will be usual. We are not intimidated, we are angry, she said.

Another Twitter user who identifies herself as K on Twitter told TwoCircles.net that she is not sad about what happened to their images but worried and concerned about the vulnerability of women and to which extent their existence can be misused against them.

Women are the easiest target for the right-wing brigade. They (right-wing trolls) have all the privilege to get away as they enjoy impunity from the State and government, she said.

She said that the moral policing women are facing after this incident is another obstacle that women face.

The worst thing about this incident is that men are telling us not to post our pictures on social media from now onwards. Have they ever wondered why women who wear hijab or veils are getting raped? Their pictures are misused as well, she commented.

Legal recourse

The Muslim women victims of the online fake auction are now seeking legal remedies which can help them to find a solution to combat or limit such incidents.

We are going to pursue this matter legally, as it has not started today and is not going to end today. We need to take a strong step so that it can never happen again. We will also try to find out a way to identify all such platforms which propagate such content, out of our knowledge, Twitter user K said.

Incident widely condemned

Many governmental and voluntary organizations came out in support and condemned the Islamophobic campaign to target, harass and intimidate Muslim women.

The National Commission for Women (NCW) took suo moto cognizance of the Sulli Deals incident. Rekha Sharma, Chairperson of NCW has written to Delhi Police demanding FIRs to be filed and investigation to be started in the matter seeking Delhi police to provide the information about the investigation within 10 days. A copy of the letter has also been sent to the Delhi Commissioner of Police Cyber Cell.

Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) has also sent a notice to Delhi police directing them to ensure fair and speedy investigation. It has asked the Delhi police to provide a copy of the FIR registered in the matter by July 14.

In a letter issued by Swati Maliwal, Chairperson of DCW, she has written, Many women had to leave social media platforms after their images got circulated. This is a very serious matter and constitutes cybercrime.

Delhi Police Special cell has filed the case under section 354 A of the Indian Penal Code and the investigation is ongoing.

On the same lines, Mumbai Police has issued letters to Twitter India, Github, and the CEO of Github Nat Friedman to reveal the information of the Sulli Deals user.

An FIR was also registered by Mumbai police as one victim is a resident of Mumbai, Maharashtra.

The Editors Guild of India also released a press statement after they found that images of journalists and other professionals were misused on the app.

The vile attack is symptomatic of underlying misogyny in some sections of the society, especially against Muslim women as well as those who have been outspoken critics of the current government, reads the letter.

The letter further states, The EGI is deeply concerned about the misuse of digital media spaces to harass women journalists to intimidate and silence them.

Although many legal complaints were made by women and these organizations, Police after starting the investigation have not made a breakthrough or arrests in the case till now.

Online targeting of Muslim women in India is nothing new

The Sulli Deals incident did not happen in isolation. The targeting of Muslim women in India  both online and offline has been going on for some time. Earlier this year, on the Muslim festival of Eid, a YouTube channel run by an Indian namely the Liberal Doge posted pictures of Pakistani women and asked viewers to rate the women and auction them off to each other based on their physical appearance.

An investigation by an independent media outlet Article14 revealed that there were scores of accounts on social media with content that demeaned Muslim women as sex objects for Hindu men. The nature and content of these posts point towards an organized but obscene, and illegal, campaign by followers of the Hindutva right-wing ecosystem, the report said.

According to the report, these accounts share hundreds of pornographic videos of women in hijab every day, with inflammatory captions such as Hindu tigers, f*CK us.

Many times, these accounts use images of actual Muslim women stolen from their social media accounts as their display pictures and post them with obscene and Islamophobic captions.

Women from Kashmir, Shaheen Bagh protestors, Muslim women professionals across the spectrum have been targeted by these Hindutva extremists with Islamophobic, racist, casteist, and misogynist abuse, day in and day out.

After the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian constitution in Jammu and Kashmir, an army of right-wingers started abusive campaigns against Kashmiri Muslim women. In fact, Chief Minister of Haryana Manohar Lal Khattar went on to say that they will bring girls from Kashmir for marriage after the abrogation of the provisions of Article 370 of the Constitution.

Following the abrogation, YouTube was abuzz with misogynistic songs directed towards Kashmiri women.

Kashmiri women and Indian Muslim women have been subjected to this kind of sexism and sexualization through their pictures, if not their bodies.

Muslim media professionals like Rana Ayyub and Arfa Khanum Sherwani have been the target of hate and threats of sexual violence on social media platforms like Twitter. Activists and women who are vocal and critical of Islamophobic and anti-Muslim policies and the ruling Hindu Bhartiya Janata Party are also on their target.

Sulli Deals amid rise in hate crimes against Muslims under BJP

The Sulli Deals incident targetting Muslim women has occurred amid a rise in hate crimes against Muslims in India, especially since the BJP government came to power at the Centre in 2014. Every other day stories of Muslims getting beaten, abused, and lynched are making headlines. Earlier this month, the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) said that the organization was concerned about religious freedom conditions in India.

International rights organization Human Rights Watch (HRW) in February, accused the Indian government of adopting laws and policies that systematically discriminate against Muslims and stigmatize critics of the government.

Prejudices embedded in the government of the ruling Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have infiltrated independent institutions, such as the police and the courts, empowering nationalist groups to threaten, harass, and attack religious minorities with impunity, HRW had said.

For victims of the Sulli Deals, the incident has only highlighted the vulnerability of being an outspoken Muslim women in India.

Ghazala Ahmad is a multimedia journalist. She covers stories related to Muslims, women, disadvantaged groups, minorities, communalism, politics and discrimination. Her Twitter is @ghazalaahmad5.

Ubair ul Hameed is an independent multimedia journalist hailing from Kashmir. His work has appeared in The Wire, The Quint, Madhyamam, Muslim Mirror among many others. His Twitter is @ubairulhameed.
MAJOR RESTORATION ANNOUNCEMENT!!

We have some very special news for you!

Over the last two years, we have been working with les Ailes Anciennes at le Bourget in France to create a plan which can help both Just Jane and Lancaster B.VII NX644, which the French team is restoring. NX664 rolled off the same production line, just a few dozen places after NX611, at the Austin Motor Company satellite plant in Longbridge, Birmingham. She is currently under restoration with les Ailes Anciennes at le Bourget near Paris, France.

As you know, we can typically only perform major restoration work on NX611 during the winter periods each year since the aircraft must be in taxiable condition during the summer season to help raise the funds we need for her continued restoration. Due to this schedule, there are various restoration tasks which we know cannot be completed within any particular six month, off-season period; the biggest of these tasks involving the wings, of course.

As a result, we have been networking with many of the Lancaster groups/owners around the world to find cooperative areas of mutual benefit, as you will have seen from our recent dealings with the South Yorkshire Air Museum and the rear fuselage of KB976. Through these conversations, we have developed a plan to help both les Ailes Anciennes in France and ourselves.

While les Ailes Anciennes has made great progress with NX664s fuselage, they have yet to tackle the aircrafts wings  so here is the plan we have conceived to assist each team. We will borrow NX664s outer wings, one at a time, and bring them to LAHC. We will start with NX664s port wing, first building a jig to mount it in and then restoring it into a taxiable condition. Once this wing is ready, we will swap it out for NX611s port outer-wing to allow Just Jane to continue her taxi-runs over the following season. NX611s port outer wing can then take its turn in the jig and undergo restoration to airworthy condition. This means that we can work on the wing for a full twelve month period without having to stop and start.

Once NX611s port wing is finished, it will go back on the airframe, at which point we can return NX664s port wing to France and repeat the same process with the starboard outer wing in a similar fashion. We are expecting this to be a 4 year plan and it certainly presents the biggest and most complex aspect of the whole project. While all the wing project is underway, we will still be restoring the rear fuselages for KB976 and NX611, hopefully making up the time we lost due to COVID, so that the restoration as a whole will still meet our 10 year plan to have Just Jane back in the air.

This wing project has huge benefits for NX611, as we can get a jig made without disrupting the taxy run season. We can also learn a lot about the wing and the best methods for working on it before we even attempt the airworthy restoration for NX611, and furthermore, we can have a full, 12 month period working on each wing, making the restoration proceed much more efficiently. The added benefit to the warbird world and all those whom love the Lancaster is that another example will get her wings refurbished as well  so whats not to like!

There is just one problem, however. Since we will be running the wing project alongside the rest of the restoration, we will need to raise an additional 500,000 over the next four years to fund the additional effort. To help manage this target, we have started a Gofundme campaign so that anyone can donate to the project and we can spread the news about this huge step forward.

We would be so grateful for any support you can give us whether it be financial or by sharing the link for the campaign on social media, over the internet and/or by word of mouth.

For those in the UK who would prefer to donate by cheque, please send them to the address below.

Panton Bros  Lancaster Restoration Fund

Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre

East Kirkby Airfield

East Kirkby

Lincs

PE23 4DE

Or you can donate online, but please note that it is for the WINGS FUND HERE

This is the single best opportunity we have to take a huge step forward with NX611s restoration to airworthy condition. I cannot over stress how exciting and important this step is!

Whats more, weve already started! The first wing has already arrived and you can see photos of the delivery below. Special thanks must go to Welchs Transport who moved the wing for us  the had to spend 65 hours in customs at Calais before receiving clearance to proceed to the UK.

Stay safe and thanks for your support!

Andrew Panton

Thats all for this particular update. We hope that you have enjoyed reading it. As can be seen, a lot of work remains to be done, but the aircraft is well on the way back to flying condition. It is being done in a methodical and careful manner in order to keep the aircraft available for ground-running operations during the summer months. For those interested in helping support this important project, please click HERE

Be sure to check out their store HERE as well There are many cool items to buy which will help get Just Jane back in the air!
Yesterday the Science and Industry Museum and Manchester City Council announced that they will no longer lease the historic Lower Campfield market hall building which houses the Air and Space Hall. The majority of the aviation collection on display will be returned from loan to their home organizations, which include the the RAF Museum. Many new onward destinations for loan are currently being planned to ensure that the collections can continue to be enjoyed by the public across the UK.

PRESS RELEASE 

The Science and Industry Museum and Manchester City Council announce today that the museum will no longer lease the historic Lower Campfield market hall building which houses the Air and Space Hall.

This hall, which is closed due to the extent of repairs needed, and many of the objects within it, formed Manchester City Councils Air and Space Museum, which opened in 1983.The Air and Space Hall was originally taken on by the North Western Museum of Science and Industry in 1985 due to the disbanding of Greater Manchester Councils Air and Space Museum, before transferring to the Science Museum Group in 2012.

The majority of the aviation collection on display will be returned from loan to their home organizations, which include the RAF Museum. Many new onward destinations for loan are currently being planned to ensure that the collections can continue to be enjoyed by the public across the UK.

The RAF Museums Avro 707A and English Electric P1A will be rehomed at Boscombe Down Aviation Collection, and the Avro 504K will find a new home at the Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome in Essex  where members of the public will soon be able to see them on display. The Yokosuka Ohka II will travel to the Pima Air & Space Museum in Arizona, USA, while the Avro Shackleton will travel to its spiritual home at the Avro Heritage Museum in Woodford, Stockport. Many aircraft will also return to The Aeroplane Collection at nearby Ellesmere Port.

Maggie Appleton, RAF Museum CEO said: We are delighted to be re-homing these aircraft and sharing them with new audiences to enjoy and connect with their stories. I know they will resonate with audiences and communities, with some even having local stories linked to them. As a National Museum, the RAF Museum is committed to sharing the story of the Royal Air Force with everyone, and having jewels from our collection on display in different parts of the country, and indeed the world, means that this story is more accessible and available. I look forward to visiting each site to see them on display.

Science and Industry Museum Director, Sally Macdonald, says: The decision to vacate our lease has not been easy but its the right thing to do for our visitors, the building and the city. Since the Science Museum Group took on the Science and Industry Museum in 2012, we have been working hard on an extensive and intensive program of urgent repair and conservation work to the buildings the museum inhabits so we can continue to inspire visitors with ideas that change the world.

We have just completed a 5million new Special Exhibitions Gallery which over 20,000 visitors have already enjoyed, and we are investing 11.3million in our iconic Power Hall, due to reopen in 2023. We are also undertaking repairs valued at over 3m to the 1830 Station and 1830 warehouse.

As a charity we have invested significant resource to maintain and repair the Air and Space Hall since we have taken on its stewardship, however historic buildings do have a complexity of issues that date back many decades. The repair and investment work required to bring this beautiful building back to life is substantial, the space presents real challenges in the sustainable display of historic objects and ultimately, it is the responsible thing to now pass the building back to Manchester City Council, ready for its next chapter. We take seriously our responsibility to look after our globally significant buildings, which include the worlds oldest surviving passenger station and railway warehouse and we have to prioritize these buildings that we own.

I would like to thank all of the visitors, volunteers and partners that have helped to make the Air and Space Hall such a special place for many. We will continue to tell stories and display iconic objects demonstrating the regions transport innovation in our galleries, in our new talks and learning programs and online.

Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, says: The Council welcomes the significant investments which are being made to improve the Science and Industry Museum across the heritage buildings that the museum owns. We recognise that to thrive and continually attract visitors museums need to evolve over time. As such, we support the planned changes. This creates an opportunity to introduce new activities into the Lower Campfield Market building to help support Manchesters economic recovery from the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic. Working with Allied London, we are developing proposals to refurbish both Upper and Lower Campfield Markets to create and support jobs. These will be brought forward in due course.

The museum collection, including objects of scale, will continue to be used to tell the story of aeronautics in the North West and will be used in future galleries to showcase the huge contribution the region has made in aviation history.

Update on 07/15/21

The Avro 707A WZ736 and English Electric P1A WG763, whom both served extensively at Boscombe Down, are to be rehomed at Boscombe Down Aviation Collection following their move from Science & Industry Museum in Manchester.
Easterseals West Kentucky to Hold Career Fair

Easterseals West Kentucky, Inc. is holding a career fair on Friday at their Adult Services location at 1908 N. 14th Street, Paducah from 10am to 2pm.Easterseals West Kentucky has openings for Early Childhood Educators, CNAs, Direct Support Professionals, Secretary, Community Living Supports, Case Managers, and a position in Medical Records.There will be members of management and current employees to discuss our available career opportunities, pay, and benefits.
Editor's Note: Under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), China has worked with all other countries to build a community with a shared future for mankind, which has boosted confidence and added impetus for development of Asia and the world. For the celebration of the 100th funding anniversary of the CPC, we are launching the CPC in eyes of foreign military students series, viewing China and CPC from the perspective of foreign soldiers.

The first batch of COVID-19 vaccine provided by the Chinese government to Zimbabwe is delivered and installed at Beijing Capital International Airport on the afternoon of February 14 2021. This is one of the first vaccine assistance provided by the Chinese government to African countries.(file photo from huanqiu.com)

By Blessed Ncube, Second lieutenant of Zimbabwean Army

Walking in the streets and lanes in China, I can always feel friendliness of the Chinese people. Every time I was in trouble, they'd offer help with amiable smile on their faces like they were my friends.

I came to China in 2019 and have studied and lived in the PLA Army Engineering University for more than two years. During this period, Ive learned much more about the Communist Party of China (CPC), the ruling party in China and had a deeper understanding of this peace-loving country and its peace-loving people.

Chinas adherence to the path of peaceful development sets an example for the world. In my opinion, peace means a safe and stable environment in which a country can develop steadily and its people can live and work in peace and contentment. Such a safe and stable environment can be found everywhere in China. Under the leadership of the CPC, Chinas productive force has developed by leaps and bounds in the past 40-plus years and peoples living standards have been raised dramatically. Such remarkable achievements would not take place if there were not a good and safe environment.

China used to suffer from foreign aggression and it fought long and hard for national liberation. The peaceful life it enjoys today is created by Chinese people through unremitting and arduous revolutionary struggles under the leadership of the CPC. That historical period drenched in the blood has made the CPC and Chinese people be aware more keenly of how precious peace is and therefore cherish and safeguard peace with greater efforts.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the resuming of Chinas legitimate seat at the United Nations. China has always held up high the banner of peace and development all these years. Whether they are attending United Nations peacekeeping operations or carrying out escort tasks at the Gulf of Aden and in waters off the Somalian coast, Chinese soldiers are making contributions to world peace with concrete actions.

In addition, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) proposed by China is also conveying the concept of peaceful development. The initiative is committed to promoting infrastructure connectivity among countries along the Belt and Road and advocating exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations. As the BRI advances, it has considerably boosted economic and trade cooperation between China and African countries and brought about tangible changes for African people. Zimbabwe is also cooperating with China on several projects under the BRI framework, which has not only driven our economic and social development but also created many jobs.

Moreover, whether in pushing the international community to tackle climate change and other global challenges through solidarity and cooperation, or playing an important role in addressing regional hotspot issues, China always adheres to multilateralism and advocates unity and cooperation. Last year, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic made the world more supportive of the China-proposed vision of a community with a shared future for mankind. Chinas actions in helping other developing countries fight against the COVID-19 demonstrate its sense of responsibility as a major country and deliver its commitment to peaceful development. China has also provided COVID-19 vaccines to Zimbabwe, making Zimbabwe one of the first countries in Africa to start vaccination against the virus.

The CPC always adheres to peaceful development and makes unremitting efforts to maintain world peace and stability. I believe if every member of the international community sticks to and works for peaceful development, the world will become a better place for all.

(This article is based on an interview by the PLA Daily with Zimbabwean Army Second Lieutenant Blessed Ncube, who had once studied at China's PLA Army Engineering University.)
by Nirmala Carvalho

A circular from the superintendent of police in Sukma district instructs all local stations to closely monitor missionary activities. The document smacks of bias and arbitrariness, said a former spokesman for the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India. A police officer is required by the constitution to protect the freedom of individual citizens and guarantee their safety.

Mumbai (AsiaNews)  In a circular that could spark controversy, Sunil Sharma, Superintendent of Police (SP) in Sukma district, has instructed his subordinates and the officers in charge of all local stations to closely monitor the activities of Christian missionaries and converted tribal individuals.

Tribal Christians and Christian missionaries are working regularly in many areas of the district to prepare the tribals for conversion, says SP Sharma. They try to entice tribals to convert, and this raises the possibility of conflict between local tribals and converted Christians. In fact, conflicts between missionaries and tribal people are a big issue in many tribal areas.

The directive tells officers to Constantly monitor the activities of Christian missionaries and converted tribals living in the district and report immediately if any of their actions seem suspicious.

According to the police officer, the circular is more preventive in nature than repressive. He sent it in response to religious conversion activities in the nearby districts, noting that he did not want such a situation to arise in Sukma.

While acknowledging that everybody has the right to follow their faiths, SP Sharma added that The police have been asked to gather their own information through their network on religious conversion activities by enticement.

Father Babu Joseph SVD, a former spokesman for the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI), spoke to AsiaNews about the issue.

The circular issued by the superintendent of police in Sukma district, Chhattisgarh, ordering his subordinates to monitor Christian missionaries smacks of bias and arbitrariness, said the clergyman. A police officer is required by the constitution to protect the freedom of individual citizens and guarantee their safety.

From his circular it appears that the main cause of social tensions in the district under his jurisdiction is the alleged activity of religious conversion by Christian missionaries. However, as a matter of fact, social tensions are not one way  they are always two or more ways.

That being the case, the SPs pointing at Christian missionaries without mentioning troublemakers from the majority is nothing more than playing existing power games. A real police officer is expected to use rules to ensure justice for all, especially those who are victims.

Unfortunately, Father Babu noted, it has become routine for some organisations and some in the administration to target Christian missionaries under the pretext of religious conversion as if they did nothing else for society.

In fact, I have always wondered why some right-wing organisations have rediscovered love for tribals whose lives have improved thanks to the intervention of Christian missionaries.

Tribals have been there all this time and no Christian missionary forbids anyone from helping Tribals improve their lot. But when a Christian missionary helps Tribals, his action is always labelled as an act of conversion for corruption.

We have to challenge such hypocrisy. Our tribal brothers and sisters are honourable citizens of this country, just like everyone else, and have every right to determine the course of their life, including their religious beliefs.
by Paul Nguyen Hung

In the parish of Vinh Hoa, many families are unable to leave their homes because they are in isolation. Fr Kim brings food and gifts and tells them "feel safe, because the parish community is always with you and prays for you".

Ho Chi Minh (AsiaNews) - At least 3,820 people attend the parish of Vinh Hoa, in Ho Chi Minh, whose vicar is Fr John Kim Le Hau Han. But Covid-19 infections continue to increase, so more and more parishioners find themselves in isolation.

Yesterday, 2,830 new cases of the coronavirus were recorded in Vietnam, bringing the total number of infected to 38,239, about 20,000 of whom are in Ho Chi Minh City.

Fr. Kim, however, has not lost heart. Armed with a protective suit, he visits families in need and, together with other volunteers, distributes food and basic necessities to those unable to leave their homes. Masses and prayers are still held exclusively online.

The parishioners appreciate Fr John Kim's attention and many said they were happy and moved by the gifts received. On the 13th of each month, the parish distributes food to the poorest of the poor, Catholics and non-Catholics alike, to alleviate some of the hardship of this period.

"People here are frightened and disoriented by the pandemic," says the priest. The local government has also supported the cleric in his activities around the parish, granting him permission to visit some families living in streets closed due to the infection. In recent days, a doctor from the local epidemiological unit also accompanied Fr Kim on his visits, which always end with a house blessing. "Feel safe, because the parish community always accompanies you and prays for you," said the priest addressing some families.

Fr. Kim also thanks benefactors who have supported the parish of Vinh Hoa, giving them the opportunity to take care of people living in difficult circumstances due to the pandemic.
This comes as Iran pursues its uranium enrichment programme. Nuclear talks in Vienna are on hold until Irans new president, Ebrahim Raisi, takes office. Israels military wants to be ready for pre-emptive attacks. Netanyahu accused of failing to fund readiness against the threat.

Jerusalem (AsiaNews/Agencies)  Israels military has reportedly asked for a significant funding boost, to the tune of billions of shekels, to prepare for war with Iran or, at least, to get ready for a pre-emptive strike.

This comes as a response to Tehran's decision to push on its uranium enrichment programme and suspend nuclear talks in Vienna until the transfer of power is completed in early August between the outgoing president, moderate Hassan Rouhani, and the winner of last Junes presidential elections, extreme right-winger Ebrahim Raisi.

The request for more money came yesterday, during early state budget talks, which Prime Minister Naftali Bennett wants to see approved in the coming months.

For Israeli political and military leaders, indirect talks underway on restarting the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in Vienna, Austria, between Iranian and US officials are doomed to fail.

According to Israeli TV Channel 12, citing an unnamed source in the Jewish States security establishment, the military is preparing to target sites in Iran within a few months if nuclear talks collapse.

The military's goal is to nip in the bud Irans nuclear ambitions and prevent it from producing an atomic bomb, a goal Tehran has strongly denied having for years.

For Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz, Against the greatest threat  Iran arming itself with a nuclear weapon  we have no choice but to expand our force build-up, to continue to rely on our human capital and to adapt our capabilities and our plans.

Meanwhile, the former Israeli Prime Minister and current opposition leader Benjamin Netanyahu, certainly not someone soft on the Islamic Republic, is now accused of ignoring the Iranian threat.

Netanyahu did not allocate the funding required for any complex operations in case of conflict, unnamed security sources told Channel 12.

The inaction of the former administration could lead to a scenario where Israel is effectively waving a gun without any bullets in it, this according to defence officials.

Prior to the report, Netanyahu published an op-ed in Israel Hayom arguing that the new Bennett-led government was silent while the Iranians are rushing toward the bomb.
The office in Marmaris, in the Aegean region, was attacked. An assailant, known to the police for a similar attack in the past and already apprehended, fired more than 100 shots. No casualties or injuries were reported. A month ago a party stafer died in a similar incident against a HDP office in Izmir.

Istanbul (AsiaNews/Agencies) - For the second time in less than a month, an office of the Turkish opposition pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) has been attacked. Shots were fired at the local branch in Marmaris, a city in the Aegean province of Mugla, yesterday. According to initial information no one was injured and the assailant has reportedly already been arrested.

A person armed with a shotgun targeted the district office in the early hours of the morning. The assailant, 28-year-old A.T.D., was identified and apprehended by the police. He had been involved in a similar attack on the Hdp headquarters in 2018 and was on trial for "damaging property".

Interviewed by Bianet Guven Goknar, co-chairman of the Hdp in Marmaris, reports that more than 100 bullets were fired during the attack. The assailant entered, covered the camera and fired five shotgun magazines'. He used a type of ammunition called a 'dumdum bullet' and fired 'more than a hundred shots', shattering 'windows, tables. There are 15 bulletsin the fridge alone," he added.

"It is a planned attack with the aim of frightening and intimidating. First Izmir, then Marmari, these are no coincidences," Goknar said, recalling last month's attack on Izmir's provincial headquarters, in which a woman affiliated with the party died, first tortured and then shot dead. The victim's name was Deniz Poyraz and her murderer Onur Gencer, close to the nationalist forces and already known to have fought against the Kurds in Syria in the past.

Commenting on yesterday's attack, the office of the deputy governor of Marmaris defined the assailant as a "mentally unstable" person. This is a way - Goknar continued - to cover up responsibility for the crime. They said the same thing after the murder of Deniz Poyraz. This is a way to protect the assailants." "We claim democracy in this country. They cannot intimidate us. We will not give up on this country" he concludes.

The recent wave of repression and violence against opposition parties has also raised concerns in the European Parliament, whose members adopted a resolution condemning Ankara last week by 603 votes to two. According to MEPs, there is a "terrible" human rights situation in Turkey, coupled with a "continuous erosion of democracy and the rule of law".
Arrested in May, the bishop has not yet been released. The 10 priests arrested with him were released, while the seminarians were sent home. The religious were allegedly "brainwashed" during "political sessions". The Catholic community prays for Msgr Zhang's release and that he be left in peace.

Rome (AsiaNews) - The fate of the bishop of Xinxiang (Henan), Msgr Joseph Zhang Weizhu, arrested in May along with 10 priests and as many seminarians, is still unknown.

AsiaNews has ascertained that the police detained Mgr Zhang in the seminary in Cangzhou (Hebei). The official version is that at the time of the arrest, the authorities had invited the bishop and the priests "for tea". The police have since released the 10 religious and sent the seminarians home. However, Msgr Zhang has not yet returned to his home.

The Bishop of Xinxiang has been in office since 1991. He is recognised by the Holy See, but not by the Chinese government, which makes him a "criminal". In the same way, the 10 priests arrested are also "criminals" because they refuse to sign up to the so-called "Independent Church" and submit to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), as required by the New Regulations on Religious Activities.

The arrest of Msgr Zhang is a further demonstration that the agreement between the Vatican and China on the appointment of bishops has not changed the past dynamics, with the CCP continuing to tightly control the activities of religious personnel.

The Catholic community in Xinxiang denounced the treatment meted out to Msgr Zhang and the priests. Isolated and subjected to "political sessions", the faithful believe they have been subjected to a veritable "brainwashing", during which the principles of religious freedom granted by the Party are inculcated.

Highlighting their serious concern about his situation, the faithful of the diocese have written a prayer that the bishop may have peace and freedom: "Lord our God, Father of all peoples, you have chosen your servant, Bishop Zhang Weizhu, to be the pastor of your people. We pray that you will give him the strength and courage to face the difficulties encountered during his ministry; we pray that you will give him physical and inner peace. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who is God, and lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, for ever and ever".
Harris made her first map using recipes from the Eat, Drink & Be Merry in Maryland cookbook first published in 1932. The book focuses on famous recipes from wealthy Marylanders and champions many historic homes, hunt clubs and hotel restaurants. Using mostly Medusa, the Maryland Historical Trusts online database of archaeological sites, Harris located where each of the 512 featured recipes originated from and input the information into the database. Her boyfriend, who works in geographic information system mapping, then used geocoding technology to turn the coordinates into a scalable map.
Perkins told investigators that he had picked up the woman earlier, according to charging documents. The woman had called Hinson to state she was on her way to the Super 8 in Havre de Grace and Hinson told her to call when she was closer, and she called Hinson several times from Perkins cell phone en route to the hotel, according to the documents.
This seems an indication that the meeting was not one that would provide immediate action to address the violence. There was to be more rehashing of what policing and public safety actually looks like. Afterward, U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen said the discussion largely focused on the need for a comprehensive strategy. Somebody needs to tell the senator that Mayor Scott already developed a comprehensive plan, but there is little evidence that its implementation is making a difference.
However, even before the pandemic, residents seeking to access and enjoy the Chesapeake Bay are limited by the fact that the vast majority of the Chesapeake Bays 11,684 miles of shoreline are privately owned and that public access points to the bay are few and far between with many lacking the infrastructure to get people out safely onto the water. Parks on the Chesapeake Bay that allow swimming, like Sandy Point State Park, often reach full capacity during the summer and droves of people seeking to enjoy some time on the water are turned away.
Then I read the letter, Less argument, more honest debate; Braver Angels show how to cross the partisan divide by Karyne E. Messina. The author stated that she was optimistic that we can train ourselves to engage in thoughtful discussions on the other side of the divide. There was no indication that change is taking place, so what is the benefit of these thoughtful discussions?
Under the law, the oversight board includes at least five people: the mayor or his designee, the City Council president or his designee, the comptroller or his designee, the city solicitor or an appointed member of the city law department, and a member of City Council appointed by the council president. If the mayor and council president agree, two additional members take seats: the deans of the law schools at the University of Maryland and University of Baltimore.
Were going to really need to look at fare integration, making sure that you dont have to have two different fare types if youre getting into Virginia, Arnold said. How can we make sure that were branding and messaging similarly, and then really coordinating that service? We dont want to have a MARC train pull in right after a VRE train has pulled out.
Duluth, MN (55816)

Today

Sunny. High near 90F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Clear skies during the evening followed by isolated thunderstorms overnight. Low 62F. W winds shifting to ENE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Film crews based their operations in Two Harbors this May while they filmed scenes from Far, Far Away. The help of local officials to secure film shooting locations is just one of the benefits that is attracting more filmmakers to the North Shore.
Dakota graduated from Bret Harte in 2013 and went to Davidson College, NC where she earned a bachelor's degree in Arab studies. After spending time studying in the Middle East and Europe, she is happy to be home, writing about the community she loves.

Comment Policy Calaveras Enterprise does not actively monitor comments. However, staff does read through to assess reader interest. When abusive or foul language is used or directed toward other commenters, those comments will be deleted. If a commenter continues to use such language, that person will be blocked from commenting. We wish to foster a community of communication and a sharing of ideas, and we truly value readers' input.
The lawsuit filed this week alleges the company violated federal law by refusing to hire female workers for demolition and laborer jobs or to assign women to such positions. The company regularly assigns workers to customers using sex-based criteria provided by those customers and asks whether customers prefer workers of a particular gender, the lawsuit alleges.
I did orientation for new clients weekly with Miss Natalie, for many years, wrote Ms. Jabs in an email. I love how shed complete each session by telling participants they were kings and queens and their bodies were palaces. The way she said it, everyone walked out a little taller. She had a theatrical flare, a winning smile and a really big heart. She had a way of inspiring people around her to be their best selves.
We very much appreciate the $9,000 in aid from MEMA, he said. These funds will go directly to offset our costs on capital expenditures such as our new engine we placed in service in January and the new Fire Station and Event Center we are building over the next two years. "
Police said officers responded to a call at 9:34 p.m. June 11 in the 10700 block of Hickory Ridge Road after a report of shots fired. When they arrived, police said they found Case, of Columbia, in a parking lot with a gunshot wound. He was transported to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore, where he was in critical condition until June 13, when police said he died.
It is the obligation of our department to do even better in our de-escalation training, and to prevent the use of excessive force in the future, Pittman said in a statement. Body cameras will help. Training will help. Allowing police chiefs to dismiss officers who do not meet department standards would help as well, and we must work toward that end.
Its was up to a jury to determine which narrative to believe about Jarrod Ramos, and whether or not he was insane at the time of the crime. Their decision about whether or not the 41-year-old is criminally responsible will determine whether hes sent to a psychiatric hospital indefinitely or spends the rest of his life in prison.
His trial had been delayed numerous times. First it was postponed as he and his attorneys explored the rarely utilized insanity defense. Then, one of the public defenders withdrew from the case because of health concerns. Another delay happened after the defendant pleaded guilty to every count in the indictment. And again, twice, because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The equivalent of two months of rain has fallen over two days, according to the French national weather service, with flood warnings issued for 10 regions. No injuries or deaths have been reported, but forecasters warned of mudslides and more rain Friday.
If you are old enough to remember the hit comedy movie of 1980, Caddy Shack, then you will recall that a gopher infestation was threatening a golf course in Nebraska. The somewhat deranged groundskeeper was tasked with getting rid of the pest. His efforts at eradication include shooting, f
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The Tribal Council elections are coming up and Char-Koosta News has new election logos. We can't decide which is the best. That's where you come in. Check out the logo options below and then vote. Which logo do you prefer? Answer below!

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According to a joint report released Thursday by PolicyLink, a research firm that focuses on advancing racial and economic equity, and The Bridgespan Group, a New York-based consulting firm that has advised billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott on her massive contributions, more than 90% of donors who supported racial equity initiatives in 2018 have yet to report how much they gave in 2020.
The focus should be on inoculating people who have not yet been vaccinated at all, not giving booster shots to those whove already rolled up their sleeves, he said. The makers of all three vaccines say they offer protection against the delta variant though Pfizer has said it plans to ask the U.S. to authorize a booster.
I wouldnt be there if Rick Bayless didnt call me, said Andres. He said, Say Jose, theres a place near me and if I could choose the people I want near me, I would love if it was you. I thought, s---. To have a restaurant near Rick its like, thank you man. And obviously well look into it.
Back in the day, (lesbian bars could survive) because that was the only place you could meet gay women and get to know them or date them or whatever. But now, its not that way anymore, because theyre all over. You can meet them anywhere; you can meet them on Facebook. I met my wife on Facebook, believe it or not, Summit said with a laugh.
I woke up because I was hearing some noise. I couldnt understand what was happening. I looked outside and I saw the patio area sinking down. The pool area started sinking down, the caller said. There are many parts of the building that went down. The building just went into a sinkhole. There will be many, many people dead.
Eight FBI agents are on the ground in Haiti helping with the probe, said to a senior Biden administration official, who agreed to give the information only if not quoted by name because he was not authorized to comment publicly. In addition, officials from the Justice Departments criminal and national security divisions, the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. attorneys office for the southern district of Florida are working with Haitian national police.
Haitian officials contend that Christian Emmanuel Sanon, a doctor and pastor who divided his time between Florida and Haiti, conspired with the others to take the reins of the country once Moise was killed. During a raid of Sanons residence, they say, the police found six holsters, about 20 boxes of bullets and a DEA cap  suggesting that it linked him to the killing because the team of hit men who struck Moises home posed as agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration.
At the heart of the European road map is increased prices for carbon. Nearly every sector of the economy would have to pay a price for the emissions it produces, affecting things like the cement used in construction and the fuel used by cruise ships. Proposed taxes on imports of goods made outside the EU, in countries with less stringent climate policies, could potentially invite disputes at the World Trade Organization.
If the Mayor and Superintendent can boast about this program in public, they can release the public records that explain how it works and let us see whether it disproportionately harms people of color, said Ariana Bushweller, an ACLU attorney in a news release. It is unfortunate that we have to ask a court for this basic information.
Too many people, especially on the South and West sides, are just plain scared, Lightfoot said, scared to come out, scared to congregate, enjoy the warmth of a summer day or night for fear that ordinary moments will become the scenes of tragedy. This reality is what pains me personally the most.
We must continue our outreach now more than ever to protect Cook County residents, particularly those who are vulnerable and have not yet been vaccinated, Preckwinkle said. All you need to do is listen to the news of the evening about the spread of the delta virus. What a perilous timeline.
With stops at the 95th/Dan Ryan station as well as a modal freight center in suburban Bedford Park, his visit also offers some photo opportunities for local Democrats up for reelection next year. Road and bridge projects have long been one of the tangibles elected leaders can point to on the campaign trail when constituents ask, What have you done for me lately?
First, the state will award 55 new licenses in each of two lotteries: one on July 29 for companies that scored at least 85% on their applications, and another Aug. 5 specifically for companies that score well and also qualify as social equity applicants. That category is for those who live in areas disproportionately affected by the war on drugs, have cannabis-related convictions or have a family member with an eligible conviction.
In addition, the FEC said Kellys name and title as chair must not be included on the letterhead of any solicitation that solicits funds in amounts and from sources prohibited by (federal law) because using her name and title in that manner would identify the solicitation as being sent on Congresswoman Kellys behalf in violation of the (federal law).
China will improve the delivery logistics system in the rural areas to further facilitate the flow of agricultural produce to urban households and consumer goods to rural areas, as part of the effort to advance rural vitalization, increase farmers' income and unlock rural consumer demand, the State Council's executive meeting chaired by Premier Li Keqiang decided on Wednesday.

"Expanding the logistics services, especially express delivery, to rural areas is an apparent trend. This will both boost rural consumption and sales of agricultural produce," Li said.

Integrated development of e-commerce and delivery logistics in rural areas will be advanced. The Internet Plus approach will be employed to better align urban markets and logistics firms with farm households and farmer cooperatives.

Specialized agricultural product delivery services and cold-chain storage and processing facilities will be developed. All this will help boost the sales of agricultural produce and in particular support the development of distinct local business sectors in the rural areas that have just been lifted out of poverty.

The efforts to cover all administrative villages with delivery services will be advanced based on local conditions. Faster progress will be made to shore up the infrastructural weak links of rural delivery logistics.

In rural areas in east and central China, the role of market forces will be better leveraged and enterprises will be guided in setting up outlets in villages, to provide better delivery services in rural areas.

In rural areas in west China, postal service providers need to fully play their basic role in the last-mile delivery and cooperate more closely with sectors such as express delivery and supply and marketing, to extend delivery services to more villages.

"While adhering to market-oriented methods and competitive development, we should also place greater emphasis on the provision of public services. Support will be provided to improve relevant infrastructure in rural areas." Li said, "The reform of government functions must be steadily advanced to ensure fair competition."

The reform of government functions in the delivery sector will be deepened. Unwarranted and unnecessary restrictions will be removed. The development of last-mile delivery services in rural areas will be encouraged.

Existing facilities in the villages will be utilized when developing integrated delivery logistics service stations at village level, to effectively lower the costs of last-mile delivery service in rural areas. Oversight on delivery logistics services will be strengthened, to promote fair competition and protect people's lawful rights and interests.
Workers assemble cars at a workshop of an automobile manufacturer in Qingzhou City of Weifang, east China's Shandong Province, April 16, 2021. [Photo/Xinhua]

China's gross domestic product (GDP) expanded 12.7 percent year on year in the first half of 2021 as recovery continues to firm, data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed Thursday.

The figure puts average H1 growth for the past two years at 5.3 percent, 0.3 percentage points faster than the two-year average of Q1 growth from the 2019 level, according to the NBS.

In the second quarter, the country's GDP grew 7.9 percent year on year, the data showed. On a quarterly basis, the economy expanded 1.3 percent in Q2.

Other major economic indicators showed continued improvements across the board, with industrial output rising 15.9 percent and retail sales up 23 percent year on year in the first half.

The country's surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5 percent in June, 0.7 percentage points lower than the same period last year. A total of 6.98 million new urban jobs, or 63.5 percent of the annual target, were created in the first half.

In the six-month period, China's per capita disposable income increased 12.6 percent year on year in nominal terms to 17,642 yuan (about 2,731 U.S. dollars), basically keeping pace with the GDP increase.

In the first quarter of 2021, the Chinese economy grew 18.3 percent year on year as strong domestic and foreign demands powered recovery from a low base in early 2020 when COVID-19 stalled the world's second-largest economy.

"The national economy has, in general, sustained a steady recovery in the first half," said Liu Aihua, a spokesperson with the NBS.

Liu, however, cautioned of uncertainties stemming from the global spread of the pandemic and the unbalanced recovery domestically.

But considering the supply-demand cycle, market confidence and the increasingly strong domestic demand, China's economy is expected to maintain the recovery trend in the second half of 2021, Liu added.

China has aimed for an economic expansion of over 6 percent in 2021. It also aims to create more than 11 million new urban jobs and expand domestic demand and effective investment, which are expected to put the economy firmly back to pre-pandemic vibrancy.

The World Bank, in a report last month, forecast that China's economic growth will be at 8.5 percent in 2021.

China's recovery has broadened as its economic activities have continued to normalize under the country's effective containment of COVID-19, the report noted.
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China on Tuesday criticized Japan for referring to the stability around Taiwan for the first time in Defense of Japan 2021 white paper.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said at a press briefing that Japan has been recently grossly interfering in China's internal affairs, and making groundless accusations regarding China's normal national defense and military activities. Japan is also pointing fingers at China's legitimate maritime activities and playing up the so-called "China threat," which is wrong and irresponsible.

China deplores and rejects this, Zhao said.

Stressing that Taiwan is part of China and the Taiwan question is purely its internal affair, he said China never allows interference in the Taiwan question in any form by any country.

"China must and will be reunified. A complete reunification of China is most beneficial to regional peace and stability," Zhao said.

The Diaoyu Island and its affiliated islands are China's inherent territory, he said, noting that by conducting patrol and law enforcement activities in waters off the Diaoyu Islands, China is exercising its legal right.

Zhao said the Coast Guard Law is just a routine piece of domestic legislation, not targeted at any specific country. It is totally in line with international law and international practice. In fact, many countries, including Japan, have enacted similar laws and regulations long before China, he added.

He also said the "Indo-Pacific Strategy" aims to stoke bloc confrontation and create cliques for geopolitical games, which marks the comeback of a Cold War mentality and retrogression and "should be swept into the dustbin of history."

"We once again urge Japan to approach the relevant issues with the right mentality and show respect for China's sovereignty and sincerity in upholding regional peace and stability," Zhao said.
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China on Wednesday criticized the United States for repeatedly fabricating lies on Xinjiang, which "lays bare its hypocrisy and hegemony on human rights."

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian made the remarks at a press briefing when answering a question about the U.S. government's "updated Xinjiang Supply Chain Business Advisory."

"The U.S. has been spouting the same old lies in the Xinjiang-related reports it issued one after another. The repetition of lies just lays bare its hypocrisy and hegemony on human rights," Zhao said.

"Speaking of genocide, crimes against humanity and forced labor, I would like to ask you a question. Why can the U.S. always come up with these unfounded charges against other countries? The simple answer is that they are the sins the U.S. once committed," he added.

The U.S. side should know that no matter how hard it tries to fabricate lies on Xinjiang, their sinister plot of containing China by using Xinjiang as an excuse is doomed to fail, he said.

"For the U.S., the right way forward is to reflect on itself, avoid going down the wrong path further and earnestly face up to and address its own problems," Zhao said.
 Flash

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Wednesday, exchanging views on the heavy Chinese casualties in Pakistan.

The Chinese side was shocked by the incident, hoping that the Pakistani side could quickly find out its cause, conduct rescue and treatment work at all costs, deal with the aftermath in time, and prevent similar incidents from happening again, Wang said.

If it is a terrorist attack, the criminals must be immediately arrested and severely punished, he added.

Lessons should be learned from the incident, and the security measures for China-Pakistan cooperation projects should be further strengthened to ensure the safe and smooth operation of the projects, Wang said.

Qureshi, on behalf of the government and the people of Pakistan, expressed sincere condolences to the Chinese side.

Preliminary investigation showed that it was an accident and no background of terrorist attacks has been found, Qureshi said.

China is Pakistan's most important friend and most reliable partner, and China's loss is Pakistan's loss, he stressed.

Pakistan will spare no effort to treat the wounded, thoroughly investigate the truth of the incident, lose no time in sharing the progress of the investigation with China, and do its utmost to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel in Pakistan, Qureshi added.
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Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend an informal leaders' meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) from Beijing via video link on Friday, at the invitation of New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying announced Thursday.

The meeting is initiated by this year's APEC chair New Zealand. Leaders will focus on the region's response to COVID-19 pandemic and its vision for a better future.
During the span of 100 years since the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in 1921, the CPC has been a party adhering to a people-centered governance philosophy, dedicated to improving peoples lives and realizing the great rejuvenation of Chinese nation.

The CPCs governance model which follows the path of socialism with Chinese characteristics has not only improved the lives of Chinese people but also contributed to better prospects of billions of people living in different corners of the world. With a global vision, the CPC leadership has rolled out the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) that connects China with countries and regions along the routes for cooperation and coordinated development; its also a platform for building a community with a shared future for mankind. Now, the BRI is becoming an important engine for global economic growth.

Photo taken on Nov. 8, 2020 shows an Orange Line metro train leaving a station in Pakistan's eastern city of Lahore. The Orange Line metro train service is a major project of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, part of the Belt and Road Initiative. (Photo by Sajjad/Xinhua)

During the past century, the CPCs political vision and governance system has stayed stable. Policies and strategies have been readjusted in light of the demands of the times, but its political focus on the people-centered development roadmap has remained unflinching.

Freeing more than 770 million people from the shackles of poverty is nothing less than a miracle. Thanks to the CPC, the Chinese people have truly become the master of their country, society, and individual destiny. The elimination of extreme poverty is an achievement that represents 70 percent of the global poverty reduction effort. China has become the first developing country in the world to attain the poverty reduction goal in the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, said Acting Consul General of China in Lahore Peng Zhengwu.

Usually it happens that after accomplishing a task and coming through it victorious, people will traditionally hanker for respite and rest. Believe it or not, in China, the case is the other way round. President Xi Jinping, also General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee rolled a new dice. In an important speech he delivered at the ceremony to present the July 1 Medal, the Party's highest honor, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, on June 29, 2021, he said, "The greater our cause is, the more challenging it is, and the greater the responsibility we need to assume." President Xi urged all Party members to maintain high morale, work diligently, overcome challenges, and continue the fine traditions of hard work and plain living, and put the interests of the people above personal interests.

From my perspective, consultative democracy is a cornerstone of the CPCs governance system. The Party comes from the people, has its roots among the people, and is dedicated to serving the people. Consultative democracy engenders social harmony. With consultation on the grass roots level, leadership comes close to the ordinary people, and social conflicts are reduced. With public participation in the decision-making process, polarization winds down. The value of consultative democracy is weighed up in the way it is practiced during the annual two sessions of the National Peoples Congress (NPC) and Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).

The making of China's Outline of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) for National Economic and Social Development and the Long-Range Objectives Through the Year 2035 is also reflective of how the CPC-led Chinese governance mechanism and Chinese democracy work with the participation of people in different sections of society.

During the drafting stage of the Outline, President Xi toured different parts of China to listen to the voice of the people, and held several seminars to collect the advice from different areas and social strata. When the annual two sessions were held in Beijing in March 2021, he also discussed the drafted version of the Outline with NPC deputies and CPPCC members multiple times. In August 2020, China began soliciting public opinion online regarding compiling the 14th Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development. As a result, a total of over one million comments poured in. As much as 1,000-odd of which were sorted out. The drafting group reviewed these 1,000-odd pieces of advice one by one, and embraced all that deserved to be adopted. The group made 366 amendments and took 546 pieces of advice and proposals from the Chinese society. During the two sessions, the draft version was mulled over by NPC deputies and CPPCC members and 55 amendments were made. These details explain China's "whole-process democracy" and governance mechanism.

The CPCs global vision is well-acclaimed on account of its advocacy for multilateralism and practical initiatives in building multilateral platforms for international cooperation and dialogue. The platforms which China has initiated include the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, China International Import Expo, Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, China-Arab States Cooperation Forum, China-CELAC Forum, Boao Forum for Asia, China-ASEAN Expo, Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations, and World Internet Conference among many others. On the global stage, China has successfully hosted a number of major regional and global summits, involving the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, Group of 20, the BRICS, and Shanghai Cooperation Organization. It also spearheaded the establishments of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

China proposed the BRI in 2013 that aims to reinvigorate the ancient Silk Road trade routes and promote its spirit of peaceful cooperation, openness and inclusiveness, mutual learning, and win-win results, by building a modern trade and infrastructure network connecting all regions and continents involved. The project has been overwhelmingly well-received by people from participating countries throughout the world.

President Xi has given top priority to BRI projects as ultimately people are the main beneficiary. In November 2019, he visited the Port of Piraeus, some 10 kilometers southwest of Athens, the capital city of Greece, a flagship project of the BRI after China COSCO Shipping Corporation Limited acquired a majority stake of the port and took over its management and operations in 2016. Xi talked with local staff representatives and asked them about their work and lives. The staff expressed gratitude to COSCO for providing jobs in difficult times during the Greek debt crisis and said they feel proud and are fully confident in the port's future.

The BRI is a major platform for building a community with a shared future for mankind, and it is an initiative that promotes common development and also protects human rights. The BRI serves as one of the manifestations of Chinas efforts to advance human rights around the world. Upholding the principle of extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits, and pursuing open, green, and clean cooperation, the BRI promotes policy, infrastructure, trade, financial, and people-to-people connectivity, and targets high-standard, sustainable, and people-centered goals.

According to a study released by the World Bank, if implemented fully, the BRI could help lift 32 million people out of moderate poverty  those who live on less than US $3.2 a day. It could boost global trade by up to 6.2 percent, and up to 9.7 percent for the corridor economies. Global income could also increase by as much 2.9 percent. China is striving to help create a just and rational global governance system featuring cooperation and mutual benefit, and eventually build a community of harmony between humanity and nature.

______________

YASIR HABIB KHAN is special correspondent of China Today in Pakistan. He is also founder and president of Institute of International Relations and Media Research (IIRMR).
NEWS PROVIDED BY

Catholic League

July 15, 2021



NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 /Christian Newswire/ --

Catholic League president Bill Donohue comments on some delinquent health professionals:

Doctor-induced maladies are called iatrogenic, typically the result of an unintended diagnosis. Unfortunately, when it comes to sex and drugs, there is no shortage of doctors who are giving lousy advice these days.

Health professionals across the nation have recently been advising people how to handle sexual relationships during the pandemic. What they are saying would shock many Americans.

The New York City Health Department says that "The risk of spreading the virus through feces (poop) is thought to be low, though the virus has been found in the feces of people who have COVID-19. Research is needed to know if the virus can spread through sexual activities involving oral contact with feces (such as rimming)."

For the uninitiated, this proviso is aimed mostly at homosexuals. Instead of telling the truththis is a filthy and dangerous practicethe health experts simply exercise caution.

This same health department has a message for straights as well as gays. If you are going to have sex parties, a.k.a. orgies, "pick larger, more open and well-ventilated spaces. Bring and use alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Wear a face mask and avoid kissing." Yes, be sure to wear your mask.

The Washington D.C. Health Department is just as helpful. "Rimming, or any sexual activity that involves putting the mouth on the butt/anus, might pass COVID-19. The virus has been found in feces." Similarly, the San Francisco Department of Health advises, "Cleaning sex toys, sheets, rings, masks, collars and other items is important."

The incredibly tolerant attitude that these health experts exhibit when it comes to sordid sexual practices during the pandemic is at odds with their treatment of the faithful. They all placed burdensome restrictions on houses of worship.

Last year, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio went after Jews with a vengeance. "My message to the Jewish community, and all communities, is this simple: the time for warnings has passed. I have instructed the NYPD to proceed immediately to summons or even arrest those who gather in large groups." The mayors of Washington D.C. and San Francisco made similar statements, and were sued by the local archdiocese for imposing draconian restrictions on their churches.

So what does our number-one guru doctor have to say about all of this? Earlier this year, Dr. Anthony ("Double Mask") Fauci warned church-goers that "coughing or sneezing" in a house of worship could be dangerous. Even talking was a problem, and "singing even more than talking."

Now weigh that with what "Double Mask" said about hooking up online. "If you're willing to take the riskand you know, everybody has their own tolerance for risksyou could figure it out if you want to meet somebody. If you want to go a little bit more intimate, well, then that's your choice regarding that." Just make sure there is no singing.

We spent well over a year learning that COVID-19 is a respiratory disease that can kill. Happening at the same time has been the legalization of marijuana in many states. So where are all the medical professionals warning about that?

The disconnect is astonishing. We are a nation obsessed with respiratory diseases. We are also doing everything we can to stop people from smoking. Marlboro's that is. But marijuana is perfectly fine.

The American Medical Association has warned against marijuana legalization, but a majority of physicians, health administrators, pharmacists and nurses support it. The CDC details all of the negative mental and physical effects of the drug yet it does not take a position against its legalization. Yet we know from drugabuse.gov that "Because of how it is typically smoked (deeper inhale, held for longer), marijuana smoking leads to four times the deposition of tar compared to cigarette smoking."

And what does "Double Mask" have to say about this? Practically nothing. Yes, Fauci is on record saying, "Smoking is terrible under any circumstance." But he has not said a word about marijuana legalization. He's too busy sending up flares about other respiratory problems.

The sex advice from these health experts clearly sanction, if not celebrate, promiscuity. Thus do they play a role in promoting STDs, including AIDS. The drug advice they give is similarly delinquent, making them responsible for the increase in marijuana-induced behavioral and physical maladies.

Do not believe for a second that these sages simply want to be non-judgmental. Last year some 1,300 health professionals roundly defended the urban riots that took place, saying that despite the need to abide by stay-at-home orders, Black Lives Matter protesters were justifiedeven when ignoring social distancingbecause of the "pervasive lethal force of white supremacy."

It all depends on the demographics of the group under consideration, and the cause they are promoting, not health and safety measures. No wonder health officials have seen their credibility atrophy.

If all doctors simply told the truth, more lives would be saved. If more of them were like those associated with the Catholic Medical Association, we wouldn't have these problems. Regrettably, too many health issues are iatrogenic in nature.
Lately, I have happened across stories of ordinary, middle-aged adults coming to faith. These people had no real connection to a church or a believing community. I have found their stories fascinating and enlightening as God met them where they were.

Anne Lamott

Most recently I read Anne Lamotts book, Traveling Mercies which is a collection of autobiographical essays about life and faith. Her journey to faith was unexpected and almost unwelcome.

Anne grew up in a dysfunctional family and spent a lot of time at the homes of her friends. These second homes had more of a faith base than her own and she came to believe in a spiritual aspect to life from an early age. However, her adolescence and young adulthood were tumultuous. She became addicted to alcohol and drugs. She eventually came to faith in her mid-30s.

Her brief prayer of accepting Gods salvation was, I quit. All right. You can come in. It was more a prayer of resignation than repentance.

Richard Morgan

Another account I stumbled across was of Richard Morgan who was challenged by the question, What could make you believe in God?

He immediately knew that it wasnt science or reason that would convince him. This was odd because he had placed a lot of value on science and philosophy and had done a lot of research in this area.

As he thought about the question a Bible verse from years previous jumped into his mind, We love because he first loved us (1 John chapter 4 verse 19). Suddenly he understood that it was love that could make him believe in God. At this moment, he could barely understand what was happening to him and he says, That was at 10:24 on the morning of the 12th April, 2008. I remember looking at my watch cause I was thinking, you know, if I am having a nervous breakdown it might be useful to know what time it started to happen to me!

You can read the full transcript here.

Andrew Klavan

A further account I read was in, The Great Good Thing by Andrew Klavan. The book is a memoir of how the author, a secular Jew became a Christian. His was a long, slow journey to faith.

After many years, he got to the point of believing intellectually that there must be a God, so one night he decided to pray. He was in a good place in his life, he had a good job, a loving family, a nice place to live so he simply prayed, Thank you God and fell asleep.

The next morning, he knew something had changed, he felt a sense of joy that he hadnt experienced before. He took one small step toward God and prayed a sincere prayer. Again, not what we would call a prayer of repentance and faith. Nevertheless, a prayer of recognition and acceptance.

Paul, Lydia and Rahab

Then there are the surprising stories in the Bible of people coming to faith. Paul travels to Damascus planning violence against Christians, but he becomes a Christian on the way (Acts chapter 9).

Lydia gathers with a group of women by a river praying to a God she knew little about. She meets Paul who had come to Macedonia after receiving a vision of a man asking for help but he finds Lydia instead. Paul leads her to faith in Jesus (Acts chapter 16).

Rahab puts her faith in God because she heard how he had dried up the waters of the Red Sea and provided his people with a way of escape from the Egyptians. An event that everyone else in Jericho also knew but it didnt move them to faith (Joshua chapter 2 verse 10).

As I read these stories, I sensed that these people werent looking for God but he was looking for them. Their prayers werent traditional prayers of repentance and faith but genuine cries from the heart. God heard their cries and he planted faith in them.

For all these people and many more like them, faith wasnt just an intellectual shift but something that happened in their hearts and changed their lives.
Overshadowed by the enormous Nyiragongo volcano, the city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo on lake Kivu has experienced years of conflict between Rwandan and Congelese troops, and in the past few days has been further overwhelmed by a volcanic eruption that has destroyed 500 of the citys homes.



19 years after the last deadly blast that killed hundreds, thousands of people fled to neighbouring Rwanda on the past weekend, leaving hundreds of children separated from parents during the desperate flight to safety. Some children (supported by the Red Cross during this time) have since returned to the area, picking through the rubble for scraps of material to sell for food.

During this time, we ask for your prayers for these people who have been wracked by conflict and environmental disaster, that the Lord would make their way clear for them. DRC Team Leader Leonard Kiswangi commented on the issues these people are facing.

 A whole generation between 1994 and 2019 live in permanent fear with no meaning in life other than a fight for identity and survival. life in this part of the world, is really hard and there has been no time where we could say that real peace and sustainable development has prevailed. Many people, under such devastating and bloody wars cry out saying that death was better than living in the context where all seems to describe hell! Peace, more particularly inner peace is the most needed life ingredient people are longing for. 

Please pray for the

- safety and well being of the city community, and for the healing hands of support and grace offered by Rwanda and NGOs in the area.

- work of Leonard and team as they provide whatever support is possible to churches in the region

- end to conflict and war in DRC.

- security and rebuilding of the city.

- love of Christ to be present through all Christians near and far to the people of DRC.
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If you have any questions or need further assistance, please call our customer service team at 319-352-3334 or email legals@waverlynewspapers.com.
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By filing for bankruptcy relief, the Diocese is seeking to ensure a fair and equitable outcome for everyone involved, Bishop Michael R. Cote, the leader of the diocese, said in the written statement and video. That is because the bankruptcy court will centralize all litigation and oversee a settlement that ensures that all survivors are included and treated fairly. Individual private litigation could deplete the Dioceses funds with the first case, leaving other survivors without any possibility of compensation.
When we looked out over the water, we saw the dog was swimming, the man was clinging to a sheet of ice, which was a clue, at least to us, he either didnt have enough energy to get back in or likely too hypothermic to swim back in, Jonathan Goldfarb, a Fairfield resident, said. At that point we had just looked at each and took whatever clothes we needed to take off to go in the water.
The boards vote Wednesday came less than a month after the Connecticut state legislature approved a provision that would withhold some state money from towns whose schools use Native American mascots. As a result of the measure, North Haven would have stood to lose its allotment of slot machine revenue from the states two federally recognized indigenous tribes, which totals $87,000 annually for the town.
We were very gratified that the governor and lawmakers took action to begin basing managerial employees pay and benefits on those secured by union members in contract negotiations, Nugent said. That will begin the long-overdue process of achieving equity and reducing compression in salaries. It should also help to blunt the impact of next years retirement cliff on the delivery of vital public services.
The station itself, which caters to more than 700,000 Amtrak customers and more than 1 million Metro-North riders each year, is the subject of the Moving Union Station Forward Plan, which proposes renovating the original building and adding new parking and passenger amenities, the plan reads. In the half mile surrounding the station, a new transit-oriented development program is encouraging several mixed-use developments featuring commercial and residential space. New Haven is also increasing access to Union Station via the Downtown Crossing project, which will convert Route 34 from an expressway into an active mobility corridor with low-speed car traffic. Combined, these new developments and infrastructure projects are reshaping Union Station into a modern economic and transportation hub with better connections between the station and downtown.
Deadline Extensions Implemented During Coronavirus Crisis Apply to Tax Appeals

A state tolling law enacted during the coronavirus crisis postponed the running of time limitations for filing legal documents, and that law applies to appeals submitted to the Board of Tax Appeals, the Ohio Supreme Court ruled today.

In a unanimous per curiam opinion, the Supreme Court reversed the BTAs determination that the 2020 tolling law did not apply to cases appealed from the tax commissioner to the BTA. The Ohio tax commissioner, who originally argued that the taxpayer had missed the deadline for filing its appeals to the BTA, changed position after the BTA dismissed the appeals and the matter was submitted to the Supreme Court. Both parties urged the Court to reverse the BTAs determination.

The parties argued that House Bill 197 extended the deadline to file an appeal. The taxpayer also contended that a separate tolling order issued by the Ohio Supreme Court (See Chief Justice Tolls Time Requirements to Aid Courts in Crisis) also gave it extra time to appeal. The Court clarified that its order governed time limitations imposed by court rules and did not apply to time limits for filing an appeal at the BTA, which are imposed by statutes.

Click to Expand

Taxpayer Disputes Assessment

Ronald Chapman and Chapman Enterprises of Carroll, Ohio, challenged tax assessments issued against them by the Ohio tax commissioner. The tax commissioner made a final determination upholding the disputed assessments. The determination was received by Chapman on May 4, 2020. Under R.C. 5717.02(B), Chapman had 60 days from the date he and his company was served to appeal to the BTA. Because of the July 4 holiday, the deadline for the appeal was July 6.

As required by state law, Chapman delivered a notice of their appeals to the tax commissioner, which was received on June 26, 2020, and presented their notices of appeal to the BTA on July 27,2020.

Chapmans appeals were initiated in the midst of the coronavirus outbreak. The General Assembly enacted House Bill 197 in March 2020, to impose emergency measures to protect citizens during the health crisis. Effective March 27, H.B. 197 tolled numerous time limitation periods imposed by state law. Section 22 of the bill stated that certain time limitation periods set to expire between March 9, 2020 and July 30, 2020 would be tolled until the end of the official coronavirus emergency or July 30, whichever came first. Because the coronavirus crisis continued through 2020, the tolling order ended on July 30, 2020.

Chapman filed the notices of appeal during the time when the 60-day limitation period was suspended  or tolled. As a result, H.B. 197 suspended that 60-day period and restarted it after July 30, 2020, the company maintained.

State Rejects Appeal

Before the BTA, the tax commissioner requested that the BTA dismiss Chapmans appeals, arguing the deadline to submit them was July 6. The BTA agreed with the commissioner and dismissed the appeals, stating the provisions in H.B. 197 did not apply to BTA appeals. Chapman appealed the decision to the Supreme Court, which is required to consider this type of dispute.

While the tax commissioner argued that Chapman missed the deadline to appeal, the office changed course while the case was pending before the Supreme Court. Rather than submitting a brief.

opposing Chapmans appeal, the commissioner joined Chapman in requesting the BTAs dismissal be reversed and the case be remanded to the BTA. The commissioner stated it had concluded that H.B. 197 applies to all statutorily established statutes of limitations in the Ohio Revised Code and Ohio Administrative Code, including the BTA appeal process stated in R.C. 5717.02.

Supreme Court Examined the Tolling Statute

The Supreme Court noted that Section 22(A)(1)(c) of H.B. 197 stated that a statute of limitations set to expire between March 9 and July 30, 2020, would be tolled, including the period of limitation for any administrative actions or proceeding. Section 22(A) (10) similarly tolled any other criminal, civil, or administrative time limitation.

While R.C. 5717.02 speaks of an appeal rather than limitation period, the Court held that the 60-day time limitation for filing an appeal to the BTA is functionally the same as a 60-day limitation period for initiating an administrative proceeding at the BTA. And even if Section 22(A)(1)(c) did not apply, the Court noted that Section A(10) would toll the 60-day period as an administrative time limitation.

Because Chapman submitted its claim during the period when H.B. 197 tolled the 60-day period for filing its BTA appeal, the Court remanded the cases to the BTA for consideration on the merits.

2020-1389 and 2020-1390. Chapman Ents., Inc. v. McLain, Slip Opinion No. 2021-Ohio-2386.

Please note: Opinion summaries are prepared by the Office of Public Information for the general public and news media. Opinion summaries are not prepared for every opinion, but only for noteworthy cases. Opinion summaries are not to be considered as official headnotes or syllabi of court opinions. The full text of this and other court opinions are available online.
Mona Lisa in New York by Yevgenia Nayberg. (Ages 4 to 8. Prestel Junior. $14.95.) Whats a famous face to do when shes just plain over it? Mona Lisa, from her perch in Paris, laments, I know everything and everyone knows me. But when she visits New Yorks Metropolitan Museum of Art, Mona Lisa magically sneaks away from her gilded frame for a walk around the city ... and is shocked to be ignored by blase city-dwellers. Befriended by Tag (a mustachioed graffiti art figure who, like Mona Lisa, has sprung to life), the lady tours the city and feels the magic of a Brooklyn slice, jazz, and a dance on the High Line.
In Hampton, riders must be 18, four years older that the state requires. Also speed limits in Hampton are set at 15 miles per hour; the state law allows up to 20 miles per hour. Additionally, Hampton is using geofencing, for the pilot areas, which limits where people are allowed to use the scooters and where they can park. In the pilot areas, there are designated intersections where motorized scooters can cross.
The departments partnership with the Connecticut-based Center for Policing Equity will last three to five years, according the centers website. Researchers will analyze data from Norfolk police, identify possible biases and provide improvement recommendations based on their findings. Officials said the program intends to alleviate policing disparities and help build a better relationship between law enforcement and Norfolks communities.
The comments reflect an escalation of tension over the issue of masks in schools, which are required in instructional settings until July 25. Districts are awaiting guidance from the state about whether masks will be required in the fall. If the state extends the requirement, the decision will be out of local school districts hands.
The indictment, which is a formal criminal charge, relates to a juvenile patients injuries in 2019 while at Cumberland Hospital, during the time in which Burrell, a King William resident, worked there. According to the indictment, Burrell is charged with maliciously causing bodily injury with the intent to disfigure, disable or kill.
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. (AFP Photo)

Washington: The much sought-after Indian talent is moving to Canada from the US due to the country's outdated immigration policies, particularly on H-1B visas, experts have told American lawmakers.

This is mainly because of the per-country quota on issuing the employment-based Green Card or permanent residency, the experts said on Tuesday, urging the US Congress to act fast to prevent the Indian talent from moving to Canada from the United States.

Without Congressional action, the total backlog for all three employment-based categories for Indians would increase from an estimated 9,15,497 individuals currently to an estimated 21,95,795 individuals by fiscal 2030, executive director of National Foundation for American Policy Stuart Anderson said.

"We should let that number sink in: Within a decade, more than 2 million people will be waiting in line for years or even decades for employment-based green cards," he submitted in his testimony before the House Judiciary Committee-Subcommittee on Immigration and Citizenship.

Testifying before the panel on "Oh, Canada! How Outdated US Immigration Policies Push Top Talent to Other Countries, Anderson said that highly skilled foreign nationals, including international students, are choosing Canada over America.

"This has happened in response to how difficult it is to work in the United States in H-1B status or gain permanent residence, and the comparative ease of international students and foreign nationals working in temporary status and then acquiring permanent residence in Canada," he said.

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. Technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China.

The number of international students from India enrolled in graduate-level computer science and engineering at US universities declined by more than 25 per cent between 2016-17 and 2018-19 academic years, according to an analysis of US government data by the National Foundation for American Policy (NFAP).

To place the significance of the decline in context, international students represent approximately 75 per cent of the full-time graduate students at US universities in computer science, and in the 2016-17 academic year, two-thirds of the international students at the graduate level in computer science at US universities were from India.

At the same time, fewer Indian students were coming to America, the number of Indian students attending Canadian universities rose from 76,075 in 2016 to 1,72,625 in 2018, an increase of 127 per cent, according to the Canadian Bureau for International Education, he said.

"In sum, Canada's immigration policies are much better than America's for facilitating the entry of talented individuals. Congress established America's policies in 1990, before smartphones, e-commerce, social media, cloud computing and the daily use of the internet exploded the demand for high-skilled technical labour.

"The world has changed since 1990, the US immigration policy has not, Anderson said.

The Canadian government has made it increasingly easy for employers to attract and retain talent. On the other hand, numerical restrictions on high-skilled temporary visas block the vast majority of foreign-born applicants from working in America in a given year, Anderson said.

In March 2021, employers filed 3,08,613 H-1B registrations for cap selection for FY 2022 for only 85,000 H-1B petitions.

"That means over 72 per cent of H-1B registrations for high-skilled foreign nationals were rejected even before an adjudicator evaluated the application, he said.

Jennifer Young, the CEO of Technology Councils of North America, said that fast-growing Canadian companies are permitted to hire highly-skilled foreign talent, or people with skillsets most commonly found among H-1B applicants in the United States, in as little as four weeks, pre-pandemic.

By comparison, the United States immigration system is paper-based, causing nearly all applicants significant delays in processing, she said.

Young said that a former colleague of hers, Ketaki Desai, and her husband were both educated in the United States, on student visas. They were fortunate to obtain H-1B status upon graduation and were strong contributors to the US economy.

After 18 years and realising their path to permanent residency was looking very bleak, they left the United States for Toronto, Canada. They bought a house and are actively recruiting and helping individuals leave the US workforce and join them in Canada, she told the lawmakers.

With more than 1,00,000 H-1B cap submissions denied annually, the United States has turned away millions of qualified, highly-skilled, and often US-educated individuals who are going to other countries to contribute to their economy, Young said.

She said that the matter of raising or eliminating H-1B visa and per country immigrant visa caps have often fallen victim to incorporation into an overall immigration reform bill.

Sudip Parikh, CEO and Executive Publisher, Science Journals, American Association for the Advancement of Science, told lawmakers that it is critical that US immigration policies reflect a 21st-century approach in the same way that Congress is now working on legislation to advance research and innovation in critical technologies to compete with China.

Parikh urged Congress to expand dual intent visas to include foreign student visas (e.g., F-1 visas) to allow them the option to apply for permanent residency and adjust post-graduation immigration law to ease entry to work for skilled graduates.

"Some organisations have recommended proposals to 'staple a green card' to international students graduating with a diploma in specific, targeted fields of study to meet US demands, he said, urging Congress to continue to exempt higher education and research institutions from the H-1B visa caps.
Bengaluru: The Janata Dal (Secular) would field its candidates in at least 150 seats and the party would announce the list of its candidates by January 15 next year, former Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy said on Thursday. "Before January 15 next year, when the election will be one year away, we are planning to select candidates for at least 150 assembly constituencies, so that they can start working," Kumaraswamy told reporters at JP Bhavan, the party headquarters here.

Replying to a query on the party's preparations for the assembly elections, the JD(S) second-in-command said his party can contest anywhere between 150 and 170 seats to form a government independently. Kumaraswamy said he would tour at least five districts a day for the next one week and meet party leaders at the district level to discuss the party organisation, appointment of party office bearers at the village, taluk and district level in view of the next assembly polls.

He said he would communicate to the people about the necessity of a regional party for the overall development of Karnataka, his party's vision on education, policies to deal with agrarian crisis and unemployment. He said the people of Karnataka have been watching the functioning of the two national political parties -- the Congress and the BJP in Karnataka. Questioning the appointment of Karnataka incharge by the two national parties, he claimed this system is akin to the feudal way of governance to loot the state's resources.

"Karnataka is rich in resources.Whenever the national parties come to power, their party is to loot the resources of the state, which is similar to the fund collection during feudalism.The national parties loot our resources to divert funds for elections in other states," Kumaraswamy charged. Kumaraswamy had formed a coalition government with the Congress in 2018 when no political party got a clear majority.

However, his government survived only for 14 months and came down owing to resignation by the Congress and the JD(S) MLAs, most of whom joined the BJP, contested the assembly by-elections in December 2019 on the BJP ticket and became ministers.

Following the developments, the party's strength in the Karnataka assembly slipped from 37 in 2018 to 32 in 2019.

The JD(S) has been considered a party of dominant Vokkaligas with a stronghold in the old Mysuru region.

However, the party intends to break that image and aims to become a regional party with its presence across the state in the next assembly elections.
Hyderabad was lashed by rains last year which left a trail of destruction at various places in the city. (Photo: PTI/File)

Hyderabad: Normal life was thrown out of gear at several places here and some districts of Telangana on Thursday following heavy rains. Some residential localities in the city suffered inundation, official sources said. More than 20 localities in the state capital, which experienced rains since Wednesday, received above 100 mm rainfall by this morning.

Several residential colonies, including at Nagole, Dilsukhnagar and Saroornagar, faced inundation and residents had a tough time trying to bail out water from their houses.

The car of D Sudheer Reddy, MLA from LB Nagar here, was stuck in water when he was visiting rain-affected areas and the vehicle had to be pushed to make it move.

Reddy said relief personnel were on the job following the downpour.

The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation's (GHMC) Disaster Response Force (DRF) teams were on the field trying to address problems caused by the rains, a GHMC official said.

The GHMC has provided a helpline number to the citizens for any emergency assistance.

Meanwhile, Jagtial, Nirmal and other districts in the state have also witnessedheavy rains.

Rivulets and other water bodies were in spate at some places and low-lying areas faced inundation.

The Met Centre of IMD here said light to moderate rain or thunderstorm is very likely to occur at most places over Telangana in the next few days.

It also said heavy rain is very likely to occur at isolated places in Rajanna Sircilla, Karimnagar, Siddipet and other districts in the next few days.

Police warned mischief mongers against circulating old videos of flash floods claiming them to be recent.

Hyderabad was lashed by rains last year which left a trail of destruction at various places in the city.
In an informal interaction with mediapersons at Telangana Bhavan on Wednesday, Rama Rao said Rajendar stands not for self-respect but self-deception. (ANI)

Hyderabad: Telangana state minister and Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) working president K.T. Rama Rao has for the first time reacted to ousted minister Etala Rajendar's episode in TRS on Wednesday.

Although Rajendar had been sacked from the Cabinet on May 2 and he quit the TRS on June 12, Rama Rao had maintained a studied silence on the issue all these days. This was even after several cabinet ministers and other TRS leaders attacked Rajendar for his criticism of TRS leadership and Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao.

In an informal interaction with mediapersons at Telangana Bhavan on Wednesday, Rama Rao said Rajendar stands not for self-respect but self-deception. He said TRS gave Rajendar many big opportunities, both in party and government. But he had crossed the party line when he openly joined Opposition parties in criticising TRS government's schemes and initiatives while being a minister.

The party working president claimed he personally made all efforts to retain Rajendar within the party-fold till the last minute, but gave up after Rajendar publicly announced that he would not meet the CM at all.

Rama Rao expressed anger at Rajendar for making baseless allegations against TRS and its leadership ever since he joined BJP in June. He advised the former minister to self-introspect as to what TRS has given him and come out openly and explain what injustice had been done to him in the party.

Rama Rao rubbished Rajendar's allegations that the Chief Minister had ordered a land grab probe against him based on a random complaint sent by some unknown persons without any evidence. He said no CM will order for a probe against a cabinet minister in response to a random complaint without obtaining primary evidence.

"Rajendar is just deceiving himself by making allegations that there is no place for self-respect in TRS. He received a lot of respect both in the party and government," Rama Rao maintained.

He stated that TRS had been strong in Huzurabad constituency even before Rajendar joined the party. It will remain strong even after he has left the TRS.

Rama Rao asked Rajendar why he continued in the cabinet if, as being claimed by him, there was a gap between himself and Chief Minister for over past five years. He pointed out that the CM did not take any action against Rajendar even after the latter criticised cabinet decisions in public.

"Despite being a minister, he publicly found fault with decisions taken by the cabinet, instead of expressing his disagreement within the cabinet, he said.

The party working president pointed out that Rajendar had admitted to all his mistakes on purchasing assigned and endowment lands. This is a clear violation of norms due to which there is no scope for Rajendar to gain sympathy from voters in upcoming Huzurabad by-polls.
KURNOOL: The Krishna River Management Board (KRMB) has dashed off a letter to TS GENCO, asking it to stop power generation at Srisailam, Nagarjunasagar dam, and Pulichintala via drawing waters from Krishna river.

Board member (Power) LB Maunthang on Thursday requested the TS power utility to stop power generation and have further release of water immediately through Srisailam Power House, Nagarjunasaar dam, and Pulichintala project. It had been agreed that the quantum of water drawn for power generation purposes is incidental to irrigation and drinking water needs.

The Andhra Pradesh engineer-in-chief (ENC) has written two letters in June to KRMB, urging it to prevail upon TS GENCO to stop power generation by use of Krishna waters.

Earlier in the day, representatives of AP farmer's associations met KRMB chairman MP Singh and sought his intervention in restraining Telanagana from going ahead with the contentious Palamur-Ranaga Reddy Lift Scheme.

Alleging that the Palamur Lift project was illegal as it was taken up without obtaining necessary permissions, they urged him to direct TS to stop moving ahead.

The delegation that represents farmers' interests on Krishna river ayacut and Nagarjuna Sagar Ayacut in Andhra Pradesh said the power generation at Srisailam, Nagarjunasagar and Pulichintala was a blatant violation of the pact on sharing of Krishna water.

In their memorandum, they urged the KRMB to protect Srisaialam, Nagarjunasagar, and Pulichintala with Central Industrial Security Forces (CISF). At this rate, if TS drains out Krishna waters for power generation, it is difficult to meet the quota of water allocations as guaranteed by Brijesh Kumar Tribunal, they said.
New Delhi: Chinas Peoples Liberation Army is building permanent structures at a number of points at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim as it seems to be intending to put its troops in the forward areas for much longer period.

These permanent structures will help the Chinese to consolidate their positions at the LAC and also help them to push their troops to forward areas at a much faster pace. A new Chinese camp is seen to be coming up a few kilometres inside Chinese territory opposite the Naku La area in northern Sikkim. This camp is just a short distance away from where the Indian and Chinese soldiers had clashed last year. Similar permanent structures have also come up at many forward positions in Ladakh where the PLA soldiers are already deployed. These will help Chinese soldiers to remain in these forward positions even during the harsh winter. The road infrastructure on the Chinese side is already well maintained.

Following increased activity by the Chinese PLA in the eastern Ladakh sector this time, India has rushed additional troops to the area. Sources said nearly 20 companies (or 2,000 personnel) of the ITBP have been sent to eastern Ladakh to assist the already sizeable presence of armed forces there while more have been kept on standby.

The Indian Army deployed over 50,000 soldiers in Ladakh to counter any threat from the Chinese Army. Tension at the LAC has been going on between Indian and Chinese forces in the Ladakh sector since last year.

Security sources said they were closely monitoring the situation in eastern Ladakh and have already sent ITBP reinforcements. In addition, ITBP formations in Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh and even Leh have been kept on standby.

A detailed security review of the prevailing situation was being done on a regular basis at the highest governmental level. The sources claimed at present adequate security personnel were deployed in eastern Ladakh to deal with the situation and the activities of the Chinese PLA were being kept under constant check.

As of now the situation is well under control though Chinese forces did try to advance into Indian territory. We rushed more reinforcements, but our security situation is being handled well by the commanders. Both the ITBP and the Army are coordinating their efforts well, a senior home ministry official remarked.

The standoff between Indian and Chinese troops at Hot Springs, Gogra Post and the Depsang Plains is still continuing. Earlier this week, some Chinese nationals had protested against Indian villagers celebrating the birthday of the Dalai Lama at Demchok in Ladakh by displaying banners from across the Indus.

In February this year, India and China had reached an agreement to disengage from the north and south banks of Pangong Tso to the pre-standoff positions. After both sides disengaged in Pangong Tso, further negotiations collapsed. China has so far shown no interest to further de-escalate the situation in other friction points, especially in the Depsang Plains, where it is blocking Indian troops from patrolling.
The crisis in Punjab was precipitated after the public utterances of disgruntled Congress legislator Mr Sidhu against the Congress government and the CM Captain Amarinder Singh. (Representational Photo:PTI)

New Delhi: Crisis in Punjab Congress intensified on Thursday as there was speculation that disgruntled legislator Navjot Singh Sidhu may be appointed as the state unit chief. Sources said that Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh has registered a strong protest against the proposed move with the party high command. General secretary Incharge of Punjab, Harish Rawat, has said that both Captain Amarinder Singh and Mr Sidhu will have to work together in Punjab and that Captain Amarinder Singh will continue as the chief minister.

The crisis in Punjab was precipitated after the public utterances of disgruntled Congress legislator Mr Sidhu against the Congress government and the chief minister of the state.

Several leaders from Punjab have demanded that action should be taken by AICC office bearers against Mr Sidhu for his "constant public utterances". A large majority of legislators and leaders from Punjab have thrown their weight behind Captain Amarinder Singh.

Rahul Gandhi has had several rounds of meetings with leaders as well as legislators from Punjab on the crisis. Mr Sidhu has met Mr Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, while Captain Amarinder Singh met Congress president Sonia Gandhi. Leaders in the know of things claim that it will be impossible for the Punjab chief minister to contest elections under the leadership of Mr Sidhu.

The major issue in the Punjab imbroglio is that Mr Sidhu has made it into a personal battle against his own chief minister. This has not only irked the leadership but has also demoralised the party cadres.

Insiders claim that the formula being worked upon included Mr Sidhu as the state unit chief along with two working presidents. Apart from being the chief minister, Captain Amarinder Singh will also hold the position of chief of the campaign committee.

The problem in Punjab Congress has been going on for more than two months now. Mrs Sonia Gandhi had constituted a high-powered committee to deal with the issue. All leaders, including the Punjab chief minister, have met the committee.

The Congress high command wants to end the Punjab crisis as soon as possible as elections are round the corner and the party should be seen united instead of fighting each other. Assembly elections in Punjab are slated for early next year.
VIJAYAWADA: The AP High Court sentenced district education officer of Prakasam district V. S. Subba Rao to undergo two-week simple imprisonment and imposed fine of Rs 1,000 in a contempt of court case.

A single judge bench, headed by Justice Battu Devanand, observed that though it had issued an order on August 22, 2019 for release of encashment of earned leave of the petitioner, who was a retired second-grade teacher, within a period of two weeks, it was implemented on 06-01-2021 after a delay of 14 months. When the court asked the respondent as to why he should not be punished for non-compliance with its order, he sought pardon.

However, the court observed that such type of wilful, intentional and deliberate disrespect towards its orders were not excusable. He was found guilty of the offence which is punishable under Sections 10 and 12 of Contempt of Court Act, 1971.

However, the court at the request of respondents counsel suspended the sentence of imprisonment for a week from July 13.
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Fort Hood, TX (76544)

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Scattered thunderstorms. High 91F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

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Variably cloudy with scattered thunderstorms. Low 72F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
Fort Hood, TX (76544)

Today

Partly cloudy early. Scattered thunderstorms developing in the afternoon. High 91F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

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Thunderstorms likely in the evening. Then a chance of scattered thunderstorms later on. Low 71F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
This blog covers software patent news and issues with a particular focus on wireless, mobile devices (smartphones, tablet computers, connected cars) as well as select antitrust matters surrounding those devices.
Paris Hilton is "proud" of Britney Spears for speaking out about her conservatorship but admitted it "broke [her] heart" to hear her friend's testimony.
The 2024 Republican gubernatorial primary still is nearly three years away, but Fort Wayne businessman Eric Doden is raising money for his campaign as if voters are heading to the polls next week.

Doden announced Wednesday he's raised $938,684 since May 6 when the Valparaiso University Law School graduate shocked many Hoosiers by launching his bid for governor less than four months after Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb was sworn in for his second, four-year term.

State campaign finance records confirm Doden has received $902,500 in so-called large donations, each worth $10,000 or more, primarily from backers in northeast Indiana.

Indiana law requires large donations be publicly reported within one week of receipt. A list of Doden's donations under $10,000 is due to be submitted Thursday to the Indiana Election Division.

Doden, who served as president of the Indiana Economic Development Corp. under Republican former Gov. Mike Pence, said he's so far spent less than $10,000 on his campaign, and has $928,980 cash on hand ahead of his upcoming, 92-county "Main Street Tour."

"It shows that Hoosiers believe in our vision for a strong future, where Indiana would be well served by my authentic, bold, no-nonsense approach to tackling our states most pressing challenges and pursuing excellence," Doden said.

But Doden hasn't been alone in hitting up Hoosier Republicans for big donations over the past couple of months.

Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, who is term-limited in her current post and expected to seek the state's top job in 2024, has raised $182,500 in large contributions since the May 18 primary from supporters in southwest Indiana, according to state campaign finance records.

Records show Crouch also started the year with $659,452 in her campaign account. So she and Doden likely are even for cash on hand when donations to Crouch worth less than $10,000 are added to her total.

Notably, Holcomb has collected nearly $70,000 in large donations since May, records show. Holcomb also had $1.77 million in campaign account at the end of last year.

Watch Now: Riding Shotgun with NWI Paramedics

The governor likely is a long way from endorsing a successor. But records show Crouch donated $2.5 million to Holcomb's gubernatorial campaigns in 2016 and 2020, and she instantly would dominate the actual and potential field of GOP gubernatorial candidates in fundraising if Holcomb chooses to return the favor.

Republican Attorney General Todd Rokita, a Munster native widely believed to be eyeing the governor's office, received no large donations in the first half of the year, according to state campaign finance records.

Though Rokita recently has been sending frequent fundraising email messages seeking donations of as little as $5 to help him stave off the threats to "Hoosier values" he claims are posed by "liberal Democrats" and "federal overreach."

Rokita had $380,000 in his campaign account at the end of last year, records show.

Get to know these new Indiana laws enacted in 2021
SOUTHFIELD, Mich., July 14, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The SME Education Foundation will receive $6 million from the state of Michigan as part of the approved School Aid Fund Budget (PA 48 of 2021) crafted with bipartisan support from the Michigan Legislature. The award will double the number of schools participating in the unique manufacturer/educator partnership-driven SME PRIME initiative, which offers education and career-readiness opportunities to high school students.

The SME Education Foundation will receive $6 million from the state of Michigan for its SME PRIME initiative.

Through the Foundation's Partnership Response In Manufacturing Education (PRIME) initiative, schools are provided a curriculum tailored to give students hands-on training on modern, industry-standard equipment and allows them to explore futures in manufacturing, engineering and STEM-related careers.

Coordinated by highly qualified Foundation education program managers, SME PRIME also encompasses professional development for instructors, summer and extracurricular STEM opportunities for students, and increased scholarship eligibility and access.

Since 2011, SME PRIME schools have been initiated in 63 communities across 22 states, creating opportunities for more than 100,000 students. There are currently 17 SME PRIME schools in Michigan.

Representative Joe Tate (D-Detroit), aware of the work and accomplishments of SME PRIME through his participation on the SME Education Foundation board, along with bill sponsor Representative Brad Paquette (R-Niles), encouraged legislative colleagues to support the program  and to scale it to a statewide commitment. Senator Wayne Schmidt (R-Traverse City) and Senator Jim Stamas (R-Midland) played critical roles in the bipartisan, bicameral effort.

"Our SME PRIME schools have been a model; a unique approach to STEM education and career preparation implemented by scores of schools across the nation," said SME Education Foundation Vice President Rob Luce. "We're grateful for Joe Tate's leadership and Senator Schmidt's and Stamas' support in sharing our expertise with legislative colleagues to ensure opportunity for Michigan's high school students."

Joe Kann, president of the SME Education Foundation Board of Directors, said, "This bipartisan budget bill is transformational for schools and students throughout Michigan. The SME PRIME initiative is a critical component of that transformation, creating educational opportunities and employment readiness for young people."

The Michigan Manufacturers Association (MMA), which represents traditional and advanced manufacturing enterprises across the state, has been a partner in developing SME PRIME schools and critical to supporting efforts by an industry facing a limited talent pipeline and misperceptions about work environments and opportunities for young people. Having seen the success of SME PRIME firsthand, the MMA was instrumental in obtaining state support for the model initiative.

"This expansion of the SME PRIME school initiative benefits students and Michigan manufacturers," said John Walsh, President and CEO of the MMA. "Our manufacturing partners need ambitious, creative, and prepared young people ready to take their place in advanced manufacturing. We are proud to advocate for our manufacturing partners  and to be a key contributor to expanding this opportunity for students."

The award from the State of Michigan is the single-largest financial commitment received by the SME Education Foundation in its history, dating back to 1979.

"The SME Education Foundation, as the philanthropic arm of SME, has been responsible for inspiring and preparing students through scholarships and educational opportunities for decades," said SME Executive Director and CEO Bob Willig. "They've earned this historic award through high standards and achievement. I'm proud of this exceptional recognition of their important work, their contributions to education and their commitment to young people  and ultimately our industry."

"MMA has been proud to be an active partner with SME and are glad to be a champion for PRIME before the Michigan Legislature," said Mike Johnston, MMA's Vice President of Government Affairs. "Finding talent is the number one issue our members talk about and bringing strong CTE programs like PRIME is key to solving Michigan's talent shortage. This is the first step in showing young people throughout the state the great future that lies with manufacturing careers today and tomorrow."

About SME

SME connects manufacturing professionals, academia and communities, sharing knowledge and resources to build inspired, educated and prosperous manufacturers and enterprises. With nearly 90 years of experience and expertise in events, media, membership, training and development, and also through the SME Education Foundation, SME is committed to promoting manufacturing technology, developing a skilled workforce and attracting future generations to advance manufacturing. Learn more at SME.org, follow @SME_MFG on Twitter or facebook.com/SMEmfg.

About the SME Education Foundation

The SME Education Foundation inspires, prepares and supports the next generation of manufacturing and engineering talent. Since its organization by SME in 1979, the SME Education Foundation works to bring students, educators, industry and communities together through its SME PRIME program; awards annual student scholarships and conducts the Student Summit Event Series held at SME events in North America. Visit the SME Education Foundation at smeeducationfoundation.org. Follow @mfgeducation on Twitter or at facebook.com/SME.Education.Foundation.

About MMA

For nearly 120 years, the MMA has been serving Michigan manufacturers and related industries by providing effective representation at Michigan's Capitol, timely educational seminars, quality and competitive-rate insurance programs, informational e-newsletters and a monthly magazine. Visit mimfg.org for more information.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/michigan-education-budget-awards-6-million-to-sme-prime-initiative-301333878.html

SOURCE SME
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Wharton, TX (77488)

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Partial cloudiness early, with scattered showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. High 91F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%..

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Mostly cloudy skies early with thunderstorms developing late. Low 73F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
Comedian Yoo Jae-suk / Courtesy of KBS





By Dong Sun-hwa







Comedian Yoo Jae-suk has donated 50 million won ($44,000) to the underprivileged.







Yoo handed over the cash to the nongovernmental organization, G-Foundation, July 12. The money is expected to be used to provide menstrual pads for women in need and to support families that have been hit hard by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.







This is not the first time that the comedian has offered a helping hand through G-Foundation, a Christian foundation for international development. In January, he contributed 50 million won to the organization so as to help low-income teenage girls buy menstrual products.







"We are thankful to Yoo for continuing his charitable contributions streak," G-Foundation's CEO Park Chung-kwan said. "Yoo's donation will be a big help for those who are currently going through tough times due to the global health crisis."







Yoo, one of the most popular comedians in Korea, made his TV debut in 1991 on KBS's "Comedian Festival." Since then, he has appeared in a series of hit shows, such as SBS's "Running Man" and MBC's "Hangout with Yoo." He recently inked a contract with a new management company  Antenna Music  which was established by his close friend, Yoo Hee-yeol.







Yoo is also one of the most charitable celebrities; last year, he donated 100 million won to the Samsung Life Public Welfare Foundation. He also gave 100 million won to the Hope Bridge Korea Disaster Relief Association to help people combat the pandemic.


A pedestrian walks past the facade of the Seoul Cinema in Seoul, July 4. Yonhap



Hit first by multiplexes, then by the pandemic, old-time movie houses pushed out of business



By Kwak Yeon-soo



Since the coronavirus outbreak, movie theaters, once teeming with cinephiles, have been struggling to stay afloat.



Compared to multiplex operators, times for independent theaters were tougher. Small, independent theaters had been suffering a dramatic fall in audience numbers since the late 1990s when multiplexes run by nationwide theater chains appeared and absorbed movie fans by offering a wider selection of films.



The lingering pandemic has dealt a final blow to the already struggling independent cinemas that have failed to entice audiences back.



Seoul Cinema's recent announcement that it would close its shutters permanently at the end of August after 42 years in business is no surprise at all to those who are familiar with the film industry. Old movie houses have found it tough to hang in there.



"Seoul Cinema, which has been loved as the cultural center of Jongno District for over 40 years, will close permanently on Aug. 31," it said in a statement.



"Hapdong Film, the operator of Seoul Cinema, is preparing for a new era and challenges that lie ahead. We'd like to express our heartfelt thanks to visitors who have supported us for a long time."



During its peak, Seoul Cinema was once one of the three major landmark theaters in Seoul along with the now defunct Dansungsa and Piccadilly Cinema.



Dansungsa, which was built in 1907, suspended operation in 2010; while multiplex cinema CGV has occupied the Piccadilly since 2016.



Movie buffs expressed their sadness and regret following the announcement.



"I still remember going to Seoul Cinema to watch The Bodyguard with my mother when I was 15. It seems hard to believe now, but back then, there was ticket scalping going on," said Koo Hye-in, an officer worker in her 40s.





Movie fans queue to purchase tickets for "Ghost in Love," starring Han Suk-kyu and Kim Hee-sun, at Seoul Cinema in this 1999 file photo. Korea Times file



It was in 1978 when Hapdong Film, a film importer and distributor, acquired Segi Theater that specialized in screening old classics and changed its name to Seoul Cinema before reopening it the following year.



Opened as a single-screen theater, the cinema expanded to three screens  introducing the country's first multiplex system  in 1989. Along with several indie theaters in the central districts of Jongro and Chungmuro including Hollywood Silver Cinema and Daehan Cinema, it became one of Seoul's most visited first-run theaters.



Yi Kyung-yull, director general of the Korean Screen Development Association, recalled that Jongno District was the center for domestic film consumption until the 1990s.



"Movie theaters in the Jongno area were a popular destination for Seoul residents. People always had to go downtown to watch movies there because there were no multiplex chains until 1998. Back then, going to the movies was a big treat. As the industry grew bigger, they became an intrinsic part of the movie business," he said.



Movie premiere events were often held at Seoul Cinema and people had to queue to purchase tickets and enter the cinema building.



Seoul Cinema cited financial difficulties due to COVID-19 as the main reason for the scheduled closure, but industry officials say that the pandemic-hit theater may have lost some of its old-world charm already in the 2000s.



"The pandemic surely dealt an economic blow to movie theaters, especially small, independent ones, but their profitability had already deteriorated due to multiplex chains run by large conglomerates," Yi said. "However, this was rather a universal phenomenon."





A man looks at a wall filled with old movie posters at Seoul Cinema, July 4. Korea Times file




By Dong Sun-hwa







Companies collaborating with K-pop megastars BTS have seen a boost in their brand awareness in Southeast Asia, according to the latest

conducted by Malaysia-based e-commerce group iPrice.







"After listing down six of BTS's notable brand endorsements in the last three years, we found that Google searches on one of those brands surged up to 83 percent in Southeast Asia (for a certain period) thanks to BTS," an iPrice official told The Korea Times Wednesday.







To date, the seven-piece act has joined hands with a myriad of brands, including McDonald's and Coca Cola, helping them beef up their global sales.







According to iPrice, BTS's recent collaboration with Coca Cola earned the drink manufacturer an 83 percent increase in brand interest compared with the same period in the previous year. In the case of McDonalds's and Louis Vuitton, interest in those brands jumped by 57 and 44 percent, respectively. Electronics giant Samsung, which released a BTS edition of the Galaxy S20+ phone last July, saw 43 percent growth on a year-on-year basis.







Indonesian e-commerce site Tokopedia has also capitalized on BTS's popularity. Interest in its brand was in decline in 2019, but it bounced back by 32 percent in 2020, after BTS became its brand ambassador.







iPrice said V, Jungkook and Jimin are the three most popular members in Southeast Asia. In its analysis, the company said V, who takes up 26 percent of the region's Google searches, seems to be the No. 1 player in terms of popularity in the region.







"Trailing behind are Jungkook and Jimin, who account for 25 percent and 20 percent, respectively," it said.







Meanwhile, BTS  consisting of RM, Jin, Suga, j-hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook  has been leading the Billboard's main single chart for seven weeks in a row with its summer anthem, "Butter." It is now the longest-running BTS song on the Hot 100 chart.


By Park Jae-hyuk







BlackRock Real Assets, an affiliate of the world's largest asset manager, said Thursday it has acquired a 100-percent stake in IGIS Private Equity, which has been rebranded as the Korea Renewable Energy Development & Operation (KREDO) Holdings.







This is BlackRock Real Assets' first investment in Korea's offshore wind sector through its latest Global Renewable Power strategy that raised $4.8 billion earlier this year. More than a third of the money has been injected into climate-related infrastructure in the Asia Pacific, according to the company.







BlackRock Real Assets plans to invest more than $1 billion in KREDO Holdings to help Korea reduce CO2 emissions by 7 million tons and contribute to the government's net-zero initiative.







"We are delighted to make a material commitment to the energy transition in South Korea," BlackRock Renewable Power managing director Charlie Reid said. "We believe that offshore wind will play a vital role in the nation's road to decarbonization and that KREDO Holdings is ideally placed to partner with us."







KREDO Holdings CEO Doh Jeong-hoon said: "We believe that BlackRock Real Asset's investment combined with KREDO Holdings' capability will contribute meaningfully to this effort."







BlackRock Korea head Choi Man-yeon also said his company is pleased to demonstrate its local investment capabilities in renewable power via this transaction, while supporting Korea's commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050.




By Anna J. Park



The number of people entering and leaving Korea fell last year by the largest rate on record as the COVID-19 pandemic caused global air traffic to grind to a virtual halt, while governments tightened screening of international travelers.



According Statistics Korea, Thursday, 1.23 million people arrived in Korea last year, down by 15.9 percent compared to 2019. It was also the sharpest fall seen since 2000.



Last year, 233,000 foreign nationals entered Korea, down 46.8 percent compared to 2019. While fewer foreigners arrived in Korea, the number of Korean nationals who returned to their home country last year reached the highest level on record, due to international students and Koreans living abroad returning from overseas as the pandemic spread.



A closer look at the numbers shows that people who visited Korea for short-term stays longer than 90 days in 2020 plummeted 61.6 percent year-on-year, while those who arrived here for employment dropped 54.3 percent. The number of foreign nationals who entered Korea to attend school last year also fell by 31.6 percent compared to 2019.







By nationality, Americans topped the list of net arrivals of foreigners in Korea in 2020, while Chinese ranked No.1 when it came to net departures. While most Americans who entered Korea intended to stay here briefly, the bulk of Chinese visitors arrived here to work.



Specifically, 56.1 percent of Americans who entered Korea last year came for short-term stays, while 22.6 percent were Korean Americans and 12 percent came to work. Also, 27.6 percent of Chinese entrants came to Korea for employment, while 20.9 percent arrived here to study.



Meanwhile, 49.1 percent of Vietnamese nationals who entered Korea last year came here either for marriage or immigration, while 29.8 percent came to study and 14.5 percent were visiting the country briefly.



Most Thai nationals who entered Korea  78.7 percent  came here for short-term stays, while 10.2 percent came here to work.


An IT company employee works in an office in Pangyo at around 10 pm, July 9, 2021. Korea Times photo by Lee Hae-rin



Chronic ailments among software engineers and some 50,000 commuters make it attractive place for orthopedics



By Lee Hae-rin



Pangyo Techno Valley, South Korea's equivalent of Silicon Valley, has no nightlife to speak of, compared to other brand-new towns around the greater Seoul region. Stretching across a 670,000-square-meter area in central Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, it is home to some 1,300 high-tech startups and IT giants that employ over 70,000 people, including software engineers, programmers and graphic designers who work invariably day and night.



Contrary to the boring nightlife, there's a defining characteristic that makes the Pangyo Techno Valley a unique outlier  it has become a mecca for orthopedic clinics.



Pangyo is unrivaled in terms of the number of orthopedic facilities. According to Statistics Korea, there are 3.64 orthopedic hospitals for every 10,000 people in Pangyo. The figure is six times higher than the entire average of Seongnam (0.56). The figures for Gimpo and Gwanggyo, two other Gyeonggi Province cities, are 0.4 and 0.55, respectively.



Sitting in a chair all day and working long hours to meet deadlines for the releases of games or other IT products, software engineers, programmers and technicians there are prone to chronic back, neck and wrist problems.



Lee Su-woon, communications director at Naver's union, said overtime work has been part of life for IT workers, particularly software engineers or other computer technicians who work under extreme pressure to meet deadlines for the releases of their products.



"The deadlines are the ultimate guideline that all people in the industry must meet under any circumstances," she said.



In addition, she said some IT employees are also exposed to cardiovascular diseases because their working environment requires them to work long hours without physical movement.



"An unofficial survey taken by a group of workers here found about 10 percent of employees here had worked overtime during the past six months," she told The Korea Times.





Seen above is a night scene of Pangyo Techno Valley at around 9 pm, July 12. Korea Times photo by Lee Hae-rin




By Kang Seung-woo







Rep. Tae Yong-ho of the conservative main opposition People Power Party (PPP) urged the government, Thursday, to review whether to allow employees of organizations dealing with important national secrets to work from home, claiming that their environments could be vulnerable to North Korea's cyber attacks.







"The increase in people working from home or working remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic could be a golden opportunity for North Korea to extract confidential information from certain institutions," Tae wrote on Facebook.







His claim came after three major South Korean organizations fell victim to cyber attacks originating from North Korea in recent months. They include the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI), Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering (DSME).







The KAERI is a government-funded research institute in charge of developing nuclear technology, while KAI is the nation's sole aircraft manufacturer. DSME is a major shipbuilder specializing in the construction of submarines and other naval vessels.







Citing this recent series of hacking incidents, Tae, a former North Korean diplomat-turned-South Korean politician, said, "North Korean hackers are going all-out to steal the technology of our small nuclear reactors and missiles."







He added that some 6,000 hackers are attacking South Korean organizations every day in cyberspace.







The lawmaker also said that the separation of internal and external networks is imperative.







"These kinds of hacking incidents could have been prevented if the internal and external networks had been separated. However, some organizations are still connecting the two networks while staff are working at home," he said.







"Under the current circumstances, no matter how often passwords are changed and manpower and facilities are reinforced, North Korean hackers will penetrate their networks in the end."







Tae said that in North Korea, Pyongyang never allows the linking of internal and external networks at it most vital institutions. "Those who work for the foreign ministry or other organizations dealing with confidential information are not allowed to enter with their personal laptops or tablets."


A street near Hongik University, Mapo District, one of Seoul's busiest nightlife areas, is crowded with people in this July 6 photo. Yonhap



By Bahk Eun-ji



People in their 20s and 30s are complaining of being stigmatized as the main culprits of the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, in which the number of infections among people in this age group is significantly higher compared to during previous waves.



Many young people point out that the government is trying to leave the responsibility for controlling the fourth wave to them while they have been pushed to the back of the line in the country's vaccination plans.

In recent weeks, public health authorities have urged people in their 20s and 30s to abide by the social distancing guidelines, all the while suggesting that they are the most responsible for the spreading of the virus.



In Seoul and the surrounding metropolitan area, the number of infections per 100,000 people grew from 1.3 in the third week of June to 3.1 in the first week of July. But the increase rate was higher among people in their 20s, from 1.6 to 5.2 during the same period.



"The country's virus containment measures are now facing another critical crisis. The situation in the Seoul metropolitan area is particularly serious, so we urge people in their 20s and 30s in the metropolitan area, who hold the key to the containment measures working, to be more patient," Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum said in a press briefing on July 8.



In response, young people have said that they are unable to understand the government's message because they are the last group planned to be vaccinated according to the government's vaccination schedule, and thus have lower vaccination rates than other age groups, making them more vulnerable to infection.



Lee Ye-na, a 25-year-old graduate school student in Seoul, said that she has been anxiously trying to sign up for leftover vaccine doses since last month but to no avail.



"I feel uncomfortable that we didn't get the vaccine unlike other age groups. I understand that elderly people had to receive the shots because they are more vulnerable, but it's so unfair for the government and the media to say that our generation is the most responsible for this fourth wave of the pandemic," Lee said.









"If the vaccines had been promptly supplied and we had already been inoculated, the situation wouldn't be this bad."





People stand in line to take coronavirus tests at a screening center in Seoul Plaza, Thursday. Yonhap
U.S. Pentagon spokesman John Kirby / AP-Yonhap



The scope and timing of any joint military exercise between South Korea and the United States will be made in close consultation between the allies, a U.S. Defense Department spokesman said Wednesday, stressing that any decisions on joint drills have been and will continue to be mutual.



John Kirby also noted each exercise may look different because of changes in the security environment.



"What I can tell you is that, as in all military operations and exercises that we conduct on the peninsula, we do it in consultation and close coordination with our ROK allies," the Pentagon spokesman said at a press briefing, referring to South Korea by its official name, the Republic of Korea.



"I don't have every detail of every event. But I can tell you broadly, we're going to continue to remain committed to readiness and appropriate capabilities on the peninsula because we have such a serious commitment to our ROK allies," he added when asked about the possibility of an upcoming joint exercise being scaled down.



North Korea periodically lashes out at U.S.-South Korea joint exercises, accusing them of being war rehearsals while also calling them a hurdle to inter-Korean dialogue.



The allies are expected to stage their regular summertime joint event in August, but many believe Seoul may wish to scale it down amid its efforts to bring the recalcitrant North back to talks.



Kirby refused to answer a hypothetical question about what the U.S. would do if Seoul asked to reduce or postpone the upcoming exercise, but reiterated that any future decisions on such events will be mutual.



"The motto of, you know, "We Go Together," it's absolutely true, and that includes discussions about what training events are going to happen, how they're going to be scoped, when they're going to occur, how many people are going to participate, what activities they're going to conduct. All that's done in close coordination with our South Korean allies," he said, referring to the motto of the 28,500-strong U.S. Forces Korea.



"It's not unilateral. It's bilateral. It's with them and taking their concerns and their desires into account. It's a mutual decision when we conduct training events on the peninsula," he added.



Kirby also noted the scope and contents of a training exercise may change over time.



"The training regimen there and anywhere else around the world is a dynamic effort. It changes over time to include all kinds of regional security factors. as well as the readiness and capabilities of the units involved," he said. (Yonhap)


Driving in line, small business owners flicker their emergency lights in protest against the government's Level 4 social distancing rules, which came into force on July 12 in the capital area, on July 15. More than 400 people took part in the protest, driving from Yeouido Park to Daehangno. The highest-level distancing rules ban private gatherings of more than two people after 6 p.m. and require all multi-use facilities to close after 10pm. Many small businesses have been suffering amid the prolonged pandemic. Yonhap




By Jun Ji-hye







A woman in Uiryeong County, South Gyeongsang Province, recently gave birth to her ninth baby, drawing attention from many people at a time when the low birthrate has become one of the biggest problems facing Korean society.







According to Uiryeong County, which has a population of around 26,000, Lee Gye-jeong, 46, gave a birth to a boy on June 15.







Beginning with their first daughter who was born in 2004, Lee and her husband, Park Seong-young, 48, have so far had five daughters and four sons including the latest one.







The couple originally worked and lived in Seoul, but returned to their hometown in 2007 when Lee was pregnant with their third child. They run a daycare center in the small town now.







While the couple say the nine children have made them happy, they have also faced difficulties raising so many children in the small town which lacks many crucial facilities such as hospitals.







"If all my children grow up healthy, I couldn't ask for more," Park said. "My children are the biggest gift in my life."







South Gyeongsang Provincial Council Chairman Kim Ha-yong and other council members visited the family's home, July 8, to encourage the couple and congratulate them on their ninth baby.







"The birthrate in the province has declined consistently for the past six years. The province has implemented various policies to promote childbirth, but to no avail," Kim said. "The news about this family will give hope to many residents."


Former Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-youl, who declared his presidential bid in late June, speaks during a discussion with workers of startup companies held at startup hub TIPS Town in Seoul's Gangnam District, July 8. Joint Press Corps



Yoon's support rate falls below 30% for 1st time in 4 months



By Jung Da-min





Gyeonggi Province Governor Lee Jae-myung, a leading presidential hopeful of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea, speaks during an appearance on a radio show by local broadcaster CBS, Wednesday. Joint Press Corps

Former Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-youl, who has been a leading presidential hopeful since he resigned from his post in March, has been losing luster in the race in recent weeks. Recent polls of potential presidential candidates showed that Yoon's popularity has been declining, with him losing out to Gyeonggi Province Governor Lee Jae-myung, a leading hopeful of the ruling liberal Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), in a hypothetical two-way race.



In a poll of 1,001 adults conducted from Saturday to Monday by pollster Hangil Research, 43.9 percent of respondents said they would vote for Lee in a hypothetical one-on-one competition, while 36 percent said they supported Yoon. In a hypothetical one-on-one competition between Yoon and Rep. Lee Nak-yon, former chairman of the DPK, Yoon received 36.7 percent, ahead of Lee who garnered 31.7 percent.





Rep. Lee Nak-yon, former chairman of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea and now one of the party's presidential hopefuls, speaks during a press conference to present policy promise on women's security, at the National Assembly in Seoul, Sunday. Yonhap

But in another poll of 1,011 adults conducted Saturday and Sunday by WinGKorea, former DPK Chairman Lee won support of 43.7 percent, beating out Yoon who received 41.2 percent.



Although Yoon was still ahead of the Gyeonggi governor and former DPK chairman in favorability polls of all potential contenders, the gap between him and the runner-up has been narrowing, demonstrating his declining popularity.










A former head of the state audit agency joined the main opposition People Power Party (PPP) on Thursday in a move widely seen as a step toward running for the presidency.







Choe Jae-hyeong, the former chairman of the Board of Audit and Inspection (BAI), expressed his intention to join the PPP during his meeting with party Chairman Lee Jun-seok earlier in the day, according to party officials.







PPP plans to hold a ceremony later in the morning to welcome Choe's entrance into the party. (Yonhap)


Former Board of Audit and Inspection Chairman Choe Jae-hyeong, left, speaks during a welcome ceremony held by the conservative main opposition People Power Party (PPP) to mark Choe's joining the party, held at its headquarters on Yeouido, Seoul, Thursday. On the right is PPP Chairman Lee Jun-seok. Joint Press Corps



Ruling bloc slams Choe for damaging BAI's political neutrality



By Jung Da-min



Former Board of Audit and Inspection (BAI) Chairman Choe Jae-hyeong, a potential presidential contender for the opposition bloc, joined the conservative main opposition People Power Party (PPP), Thursday, in what seems to be a prelude to his official declaration to run for president next year.



Choe's joining the main opposition party came 17 days after he resigned from the top auditor post and eight days after he told media that he would enter the political arena. This is the first case of a strong presidential hopeful joining the main opposition party, as former Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-youl, another strong contender who has been leading polls of presidential hopefuls, has yet to decide whether to join.



The PPP announced Choe's joining the party after he met PPP Chairman Lee Jun-seok and other members of the leadership at its headquarters in Seoul.



"Since I decided to enter the political arena, I've drawn the conclusion that I should join a political party to become a subject of change in politics, rather than looking at it from a critical perspective outside the party," Choe said during a ceremony held by the PPP to mark his membership.









"In a reality where all of the people suffer, the most important goal is leadership change and I believe the main opposition PPP should be at the center of realizing this."



Choe said the country was too divided, and various policies that had been introduced with good intentions were not working out properly in practice, resulting in the people suffering. He said he would pursue change and coexistence as his political values.



With the former audit agency chief moving closer to making a presidential bid with the main opposition party as his political base, the composition of the opposition bloc's presidential hopefuls is expected to change. Some PPP members have expressed support for Choe as an alternative to Yoon.



Choe has emerged as a strong presidential contender as he had been at odds with Cheong Wa Dae and the liberal ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) over the BAI's audit into the Moon Jae-in administration's policy to close the Wolsong-1 nuclear reactor prematurely. One of Moon's campaign pledges was to phase out the use of nuclear energy and expand that of renewable resources.



He offered to resign from the top auditor position June 28, bringing expectations he would run in the presidential election for the opposition. He has a reputation for transparency due to his long career as a judge and then BAI chairman.





Former Board of Audit and Inspection Chairman Choe Jae-hyeong, left, fills out an online application form to join the conservative main opposition People Power Party (PPP) at the party headquarters on Yeouido, Seoul, Thursday, with PPP Chairman Lee Jun-seok helping. Joint Press Corps
Ruling Democratic Party of Korea Chairman Rep. Song Young-gil, fourth from right, poses with other party members during their visit to a candidate site for the National Assembly's branch in the administrative city of Sejong, Thursday. The ruling party is seeking to build a branch there for balanced regional development, while the main opposition People Power Party remains inactive in discussions on the issue. Yonhap




Global streaming giant Netflix said Thursday it will appeal a recent Seoul court decision that sided with local internet service provider SK Broadband in a dispute over network usage fees.







Last month, the Seoul Central District Court dismissed a request from Netflix that the video streaming service operator is not liable to pay network usage fees to SK Broadband. The court also rejected Netflix's request to confirm that it has no obligation to negotiate with the Korean company.







"There has never been a case globally where a court or a government forced content providers to pay for network fees," the video streaming company said in a statement. "The decision may topple the global internet ecosystem developed by content providers and internet service providers." (Yonhap)


By Robert Song





When I was growing up as a young boy in Canada, I was smaller than most of the other boys. But I quickly realized, if I didn't act tough, some of the bully types would pick on me. It worked most of the time since bullies like to pick on weaker kids.



Like a playground bully, China has been bullying the world with its mercantilist trade policies, forced transfer or outright theft of intellectual property and wolf diplomacy. Is China too big and powerful to contain? Must we just let the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) push all nations around? I believe that with a strong action plan, the CCP can be contained but it will take time and a unified strategy from all freedom-loving nations.



First step, since trade and economics feed this hungry bully, all aspects of trade and investments must be scrutinized and limited. For example, all Chinese companies listed on foreign stock exchanges with ties to the CCP or PLA must be ousted. Tariffs across the board should be imposed on China to level out their harsh mercantilist approach and all investments into Chinese companies must be checked to again filter out CCP- or PLA-connected entities and be disallowed.



Second step, strongly vet all Chinese workers at universities, research centers and high-tech companies in the U.S. Many have already been found and kicked out but there are surely more hidden away learning and stealing information. The leakage of valuable skills and information costs the U.S. billions every year and helps to prop up the CCP.



Third step, close down all the Confucius Institutes in the world. They are fronts for the CCP to spy on the local scene and to always dampen any anti-CCP sentiments while giving steeply discounted lessons in Mandarin and other Chinese cultural activities. Confucius would surely be rolling over in his grave if he knew what these centers were really doing.



Step four would be to ban all online/offline media by the CCP which are a propaganda tool to criticize the West and soften the nefarious image of the CCP. Some of the better-known ones are CGTN (TV), Global Times and China Daily. No non-Chinese media are allowed in China, so why this unfair non-reciprocal situation exists always boggles the mind. Also, all CCP-bought ad space on Facebook, Twitter and newspapers should be banned as their main function is to push the communist agenda.



Step five is to gradually decouple all sensitive industries away from China. Rare earths and drugs are two examples of traditional sectors, but future high-tech ones like AI, machine learning and networks pose even greater threats as these can seep into the lives of every individual. Since China is well-known for its voracious appetite for dominating any one sector, all efforts must be made to limit their access to U.S. investments and know-how.



Step six would be to sanction all CCP members and their families from travel to the U.S. and studying there. The ruling elite families love to send their children to American schools, so this would hurt them hard and be extremely disruptive. Until the CCP cooperates fully in the investigation of the origins of COVID-19 and also make changes to their human rights issues, these sanctions must continue.



Some feel that the China threat is not that serious and advocate doing business as usual with China. Since most mainstream media are reluctant to publish negative content on China for economic reasons, most people without digging deeper do not feel the genuine threat. China is the world's greatest existentialist threat right now, not climate change as Joe Biden mentioned recently, and the world's leading countries must unite to tame this bully before it is too late.





Robert Song (robertssong@me.com) is a Korean-Canadian business owner in Seoul, who also runs a blog at ccpblues.com.


By Tom Plate





There are always concerns about Japan, with its background of not only brilliant accomplishments but also unforgettable aggressions, but now that Japan is in the foreground again, albeit with cheerless Olympics, historic debt and China's rise, who can be sure what's next?



Recall that the geopolitically pivotal region of East Asia began its major transformation in the mid-1960s, when Japan's wildly successful Tokyo Olympics proved an early marker of its emergence as an economic powerhouse. This was at the same time Mao Zedong's China was still reeling from the Great Leap Forward that triggered the greatest recorded mass famine in history.



By contrast, by the 1980s there were times when it seemed as if the Japanese could afford to buy almost anything anywhere (such as America's Rockefeller Center), whereas across the East China Sea not many Chinese seemed to have any money to buy much besides bags of rice. And all this was not so very long ago.



Fast-forward to today's Tokyo Olympics, eviscerated by a prowling pandemic into little more than an international TV event  the great citizens of the colorful Tokyo metropolis mostly off-camera in a new state of emergency, and the nation's economy sagging under a Mount Fuji of debt, the product of inept government that since the 1990s seemed to lack what its over-regulated business community had in excess: ideas that worked.



Even though Japan's economy still weighs in at number three  still leading Germany, the United Kingdom, France and India  the sense of stasis is unsettling. Japanese note the seemingly effective and polished centralized direction from Beijing, as well as the concessional measure of entrepreneurial decentralization, as factors behind China's roaring economic charge into the 21st century.



Might in the economic regard Japan's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) deserve less respect than the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)? This rankles. But change happens.



The central government in Tokyo and the nation's business and entrepreneurial community are culturally Japanese to the core, to be sure. But the renowned secular consensus-unitarianism no longer offers magnetic appeal. And so at almost every opportunity, the business community is finding ways to polish its act and regionalize, leaving the LDP-led government in the rust.



Perhaps no scholar has analyzed this extraordinary bifurcation more cogently than University of Southern California professor Satori N. Katada: "Japanese foreign economic policy is moving into unchartered territory," writes this careful scholar in her book "Japan's New Regional Reality" (Columbia University Press): "The distance between the Japanese government and big business has widened significantly since the mid-1990s  The government machinery is struggling to keep up."



Not unlike Beijing, Tokyo had preferred to conduct trade relations one-on-one with other countries. But Japan's private sector seems more at home than ever with multinational constructs and regional arrangements.



This dynamic has the potential to convert Japan into a leading cosmopolitan economic actor. This was already in motion when the Trump administration unceremoniously dumped the Trans-Pacific Trade Pact (TPP) and the Japanese filled it, to the consternation of narrow-minded Trumpsters. Notably, China was not a TPP member and had no plans to be one; Japan's zest offered quite the contrast with Washington's petulance. Smartly, the Biden economic crowd wants back in.



Japanese thinking about regional economic deal-architecture could stand out. In China, the Xi Jinping regime continues to suck space away from prominent entrepreneurial leviathans; in the U.S., the White House seeks to call to account those parts of the nation's business sector that it deems insufficiently public interest-minded. A rough parallelism could be noted.



But in Tokyo, informed people are asking whether "the state's interventionist role and its ideology live beyond its usefulness," as Katada deftly frames it. For Japan, the willingness to accept  even seek out  global standards of institution-building and rule-setting might be said to reflect a final rejection of past provincialism and a new referencing of the global cosmopolitan playbook.



Might China someday also sign on to a liberal economic coalition? The safe prediction, of course, is that China, under Xi Jinping, feels that it can say "no" to anything that has a Western (or un-Communist Chinese) feel. And perhaps that will remain so.



But intense contacts with the outside world to keep a gigantic economy buoyant can have its own unintended internal effect. Surely over time, outside voices have already impacted Japan in ways its forefathers never could possibly have foreseen. Perhaps China will become more like Japan?



In my hopeful Pacific scenario, Japan is envisioned as evolving an Asian "third way" that adds to peace and security: A deep culture with an astronomical literacy rate reads the tea leaves of the future not by recoiling but by dynamically evolving.



Its precarious but influential position between China and the U.S. becomes not just an annoyance or threat, as far as Beijing is concerned, nor just a reliable adjunct offset to China, as far as Washington is concerned, but for the region provides an invaluable non-ideological psychology for coping with reality. Yet, this is optimistic, at a juncture in history when optimism is not rampant in the Land of the Rising Sun.



I accept that if you support Japan taking a more assertive role in any way, you run the risk of having people feel you suffer from serious memory loss. Or that some Japanese do: for example, offering to help the U.S. defend Taiwan is most definitely a bad neighbor policy for Tokyo.



A progressive geo-economic evolution may well be just what the region needs; re-militarization is not. Only a fool underestimates the Japanese, but it's a fool's errand to bait Beijing, particularly over Taiwan. Japan does best and offers neighbors its best when it keeps its military on a leash while unleashing its impressive entrepreneurial powerhouses. I hope it sees that clearly.





Professor Tom Plate (platecolumn@gmail.com), author of the "Giants of Asia" book quartet (Marshall Cavendish International), Loyola Marymount University's distinguished scholar of Asian and Pacific affairs and the Pacific Century Institute's vice president, is a regular op-ed contributor to the South China Morning Post, where this column appeared earlier this week. The views expressed in the above article are the author's own and do not reflect the editorial direction of The Korea Times.


North Korea should focus on meeting people's needs



North Korea has reported a food shortage to the United Nations, saying in a voluntary national review that its food production fell to the lowest level in 10 years in 2018. It cited natural disasters, weak resilience, insufficient farming materials and a low level of mechanization as reasons for the drop.



The North admitted that it failed to achieve its national production target of 7 million tons of food  according to the report, the reclusive state produced 4.95 million tons of food in 2018, the lowest in a decade. The shortfall appeared to be the direct result of a series of typhoons and floods that devastated farming areas in the North.



This is first time that Pyongyang has submitted such a voluntary national review report, showing how serious conditions are in the North. More worrisome is that the problem might get worse this year. In June, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un acknowledged that his country was facing a "tense" food shortage.



To feed its 25.8 million population, the North needs 5.5 million tons of food every year; however, the country is expected to face a shortage of 1.3 million tons this year, according to a research institute in Seoul. This indicates that Pyongyang will have to import food from other countries, such as China, or accept food assistance from the international community.



On July 1, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) also said in a report that North Korea will likely face a food shortage of around 860,000 tons this year. This is raising the need for the international community to provide food aid.



Adding fuel to the fire, food prices in the North have been soaring since the start of 2021. In addition, its economy is expected to be aggravated further due to the failure of the Kim regime's economic development plans. The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the situation. The North sealed its borders to prevent the coronavirus from finding a way into the country, thereby making it hard to engage in cross-border trade with China.



The Moon Jae-in government has already offered food aid to Pyongyang, but the North has yet to accept the proposal amid stalled inter-Korean relations and deadlocked denuclearization talks with Washington. We urge the Kim regime to change its hardline stance and embrace Seoul's humanitarian assistance to help its people.



It is also necessary for the North to change its "byongjin policy" of strengthening military capability and rebuilding a moribund economy at the same time. The Kim regime should refrain from further developing its nuclear and missile programs, and concentrate on meeting the basic needs of its citizens, while moving toward denuclearization, peace and prosperity. Without doing this, the North cannot avoid a food crisis as seen in the great famines of the 1990s.








Yanolja, a leading South Korean travel platform operator, said Thursday it has received a 2 trillion-won ($1.75 billion) investment from Softbank's Vision Fund, the second-largest investment into a South Korean company after $3 billion for e-commerce giant Coupang.







Yanolja, which has been seeking to go public, plans to use the funds for business expansion, digital transformation and others, the company said.







In 2019, Yanolja received $180 million in funding from GIC, Singapore's sovereign wealth fund, and U.S. travel firm Booking Holdings, which put Yajolja's valuation at just 1 trillion won.







But with the investment by Vision Fund led by billionaire Softbank founder Masayoshi Son, its valuation may top 10 trillion won, according to industry sources.







Founded in 2005 as an information portal for "love hotels," Yanolja has grown into a scaled-up company that now also operates its own hotel brands and provides design and construction services for other accommodation businesses.







Since 2019, Yanolja has been offering cloud-based bookings and room management services.







Last year, Yanolja logged an operating income of 16.1 billion won and sales of 192 billion won in South Korea despite the pandemic-caused slump in the tour industry.







When its overseas sales are counted, last year's overall revenue is estimated at 300 billion won. (Yonhap)


In these three images, health workers in protective suits carry out COVID-19 screening tests at K-Lab, a test center in Indonesia operated exclusively by LX Internatonal and its predecessor, LG International. Courtesy of LX International



By Yi Whan-woo



LX International, the trade arm of LX Group which spun off from LG in the spring, reaffirmed its commitment to helping Indonesia fight the coronavirus.



On Thursday, the company announced that it plans to donate 60 respirators to the Indonesian government and to Korean nationals living there.



For Korean nationals aged 65 or older, the firm is offering COVID-19 screening tests for free at K-Labs, test centers that have been operated exclusively by the firm and its predecessor LG International since the start of the pandemic in 2020.



The commitment illustrates LX International's appreciation toward the government and people of Indonesia for their support of the company's work there for years, according to Lee Chang-hyun, who is in charge of LX International's Indonesia office.



LX International's businesses in the Southeast Asian country range from renewable energy to healthcare, food, minerals and digital content.



"Indonesia is a strategic location where our major businesses are concentrated," Lee said in a press release, Thursday. "We hope our small offer of support is helpful for the government and people of Indonesia, as well as Korean nationals there, as they unify their efforts against the continued spread of the coronavirus."



The world's fourth-most-populous country has recently become the new epicenter of the pandemic in Asia, with more infection cases a day than even hard-hit India.



For instance, Indonesia reported 54,517 cases, Wednesday, a single-day national record, while India had 38,792.



Against this backdrop, 50 of the 60 respirators will be donated to Indonesian hospitals and the remaining 10 to Korean households in Indonesia.



The donations will be made next week and consultation is underway between LX International and the Indonesian health ministry to ensure their quick and safe delivery.



The company already donated test kits and other medical equipment twice: in March 2020 and April of this year.



"Respirators are a must-have item at emergency medical centers for the treatment of COVID-19. The Indonesian health ministry has been making efforts to ensure sufficiency in the number of respirators," LX International said.



The company has been running K-Labs at an airport and in populated districts in the Indonesian capital of Jakarta as well as in Bandung, one of the country's other major cities.



The labs are designed and managed strictly observing Indonesia's heath regulations.



They are officially designated by the Korean Embassy in Indonesia to provide COVID-19 screening of travelers planning to come to Korea.






Park Jin-kyu, deputy minister at the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, holds an online meeting with corporate officials in the steel industry to better cope with the scheduled implementation of the EU's carbon border adjustment measure (CBAM) at the Sejong Government Complex, Thursday. Courtesy of Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy



The EU's new tax to take effect starting in 2026



By Kim Hyun-bin



The government and business circles are working together to cope with the implementation of the European Union's carbon border adjustment measure (CBAM), which is expected to have a heavy impact on Korea's steel and other industries that are not categorized as eco-friendly.



"Even though the CBAM is being implemented, cooperation between private sector and government could turn the crisis into an opportunity," Deputy Trade Minister Park Jin-kyu said. "Our industry will preemptively prepare and counter the global trend of carbon neutrality to create a positive effect."



The move came after the European Commission passed the world's first carbon border tax on carbon-intensive products in five categories: steel, aluminum, cement, fertilizer and electricity, Wednesday (CET), in part to meet new climate change targets.



The new tax will be phased in from 2026, and is designed to protect European industries from lower-priced products produced by overseas competitors that have not been charged for their carbon emissions output, the EU Commission said.



Under the proposal, a transitional phase will be initiated from 2023 to 2025 that will require importers to monitor and report their emissions. It will become mandatory for importers to purchase digital certificates stating the tonnage of carbon dioxide emissions embedded in their products.



If they do not abide by the procedures, importing companies could be fined and other penalties are set to apply.



Against this backdrop, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy held a meeting with related companies, Thursday, to devise strategies to better cope with the EU's CBAM implementation. Key steel companies and committees took part in the online meeting, including officials from POSCO, Hyundai Steel, Dongkuk Steel and the Korea Iron and Steel Association.



"We will thoroughly analyze the CBAM bill and state our position as well as consult with the EU and the key related countries involved. We will explain our carbon neutrality policies and emissions trading system and will work so that our efforts towards carbon neutrality will be well recognized," the trade ministry said.



According to data released by the Korea International Trade Association, the country's steel exports to the EU reached $1.52 billion with over 2.2 million tons of steel, the highest among the five categories that are affected by the EU border carbon tax initiative.



Once implemented, local steel and aluminum firms are expected to be heavily affected by the new measures as well.



Steel production emits large amounts of greenhouse gases relative to other industries. The process of making steel involves heating iron ore, which produces carbon dioxide as a byproduct. Producing one ton of steel generates almost two tons of carbon dioxide.



Aluminum is Korea's second-most-exported good to the EU, with an export volume of over 52,000 tons, valued at $186 million.



"The CBAM will take effect starting in 2026 and there is a three-year grace period starting in 2023, so there won't be any impact on local companies until 2025. The EU did not specify how much the carbon tax will be when imposed, as the details of the other sectors included in the bill also need to be ironed out, so we will have to wait and see," Hana Financial Investment senior researcher Park Sung-bong said. "However, there are studies from the Federation of Korean Industries that state that the CBAM will incur an additional 600 billion won annually in taxes for local companies."





POSCO Center in Gangnam District, Seoul / Courtesy of POSCO
A baby orca named Toa is cared for by Department of Conservation staff as wildlife rescuers in New Zealand are scrambling to keep the orca alive with volunteers scouring waters off Wellington to find its mother, New Zealand, July 14. AFP-Yonhap



Wildlife rescuers in New Zealand were scrambling to keep a stranded baby orca alive Wednesday, as volunteers scoured waters off Wellington to find the calf's mother.



The killer whale, a male aged four to six months, washed ashore on rocks just north of the capital on Sunday and was refloated by wildlife officers after distressed members of its family pod swam off, the Department of Conservation said.



Named Toa  Maori for 'warrior'  the 2.5 meter (eight foot) orca is unweaned and unable to survive alone in the ocean.



"He's still young, that's one of the big challenges we have," marine species manager Ian Angus told AFP.



"We have to think about how we ensure we get him back to his mother because he needs help, certainly with the feeding.



"How do we locate his mother? That's the second big challenge, which we're now struggling with."



Angus said an air and sea search was under way off Wellington for Toa's pod and the public were encouraged to report any orca sightings.



Toa is being kept in a makeshift pen set up between two jetties at the seaside suburb of Plimmerton.



It is being fed via a tube every four hours and monitored around the clock by wetsuit-clad volunteers to ensure it does not beach itself again.





A baby orca named Toa is cared for by Department of Conservation staff and volunteers in Plimmerton, New Zealand, July 14. AFP-Yonhap
Sri Lankan children walk down a mountain after attending their online lessons in a forest reserve in Bohitiyawa village in Meegahakiwula, Sri Lanka, July 2. Climbing rocks and sitting on tree tops is not part of their curriculum but children in villages surrounding the capital city are doing just that to be able to catch mobile signals to access their online classes. AP-Yonhap



Getting online school lessons for residents of a remote Sri Lankan village requires a trek through dense bushes sometimes visited by leopards and elephants. The teachers and about 45 schoolchildren in Bohitiwaya then climb more than 3 kilometers (2 miles) to the top of a rock to find an internet signal.



Information technology teacher Nimali Anuruddhika uses the signal to upload lessons for her students who haven't been able to go to school because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The students who also live in the village make the same climb to download online lessons sent to them by their teachers.



Not all have mobile devices or laptops, with four or five children sharing one device.





Sri Lankan students sharing one smartphone attend their online classes from a tree house on a mountain in a reserve forest in Lunugala, Sri Lanka, July 3. AP-Yonhap



Their parents, most of whom are farmers, often accompany their children. H.M. Pathmini Kumari, who accompanies his sixth-grade son, said the children climb the rock twice a day and their safety is a big concern for parents.



The village in the central-eastern part of the island country lacks basic amenities, and its children had been studying in a government school, now closed, that is about 16 kilometers (10 miles) away.



In the village of Lunugala, about 60 kilometers (37 miles) away, adults escort schoolchildren to a mountaintop treehouse in a forest reserve. It's about 10 meters (30 feet) high and has internet access. They take turns uploading their homework and downloading lesson plans.



Schools in Sri Lanka have been closed for the most part since March 2020.





A Sri Lankan woman holds her smartphone for her daughter to take online classes from a signal reception point on a mountain in a reserve forest in Lunugala, Sri Lanka, July 3. AP-Yonhap
Local residents and rescue workers gather at the site of bus accident in Kohistan district of Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, July 14. AP-Yonhap



A blast on a bus killed 13 people in north Pakistan on Wednesday, including nine Chinese nationals in what Beijing said was a bomb attack but Islamabad called a vehicle failure.



Two Pakistani soldiers were also among the dead after the explosion sent the bus over a ravine, local government and police sources told Reuters.



Chinese engineers and Pakistani construction workers have for several years been working on hydroelectric projects as part of Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative in the western province of Khyber-Paktunkhwa, where the blast occurred.



China's embassy in Pakistan confirmed that nine of its nationals died. Terming the explosion a bomb attack but not giving more details, the Chinese foreign ministry offered condolences and urged both a thorough investigation and protection of its personnel and projects.



Pakistan's foreign ministry said a mechanical failure caused a gas leak which led to the explosion.



However, the province's top police official, Inspector General Moazzam Jah Ansari, earlier told Reuters foul play was suspected. "Looks like sabotage," he said.



A senior administrative officer of the Hazara region, who asked not to be named, said the bus was carrying more than 30 Chinese engineers to the Dasu dam in Upper Kohistan.





A handout photo made available by the Rescue 1122 shows Pakistani rescue officials inspecting the scene of a blast that targeted a bus carrying Chinese engineers to the site of Dasu Dam in Kohistan, Pakistan, July 14. EPA-Yonhap
An ambulance transporting Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro arrives at the Vila Nova Star Hospital, Sao Paulo, July 14. AFP-Yonhap





This handout photo obtained from the Twitter account of Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro (@jairbolsonaro) shows President Bolsonaro on his hospital bed in Brasilia, July 14. AFP-Yonhap
People loot an area near a burning warehouse after violence erupted following the jailing of former South African President Jacob Zuma, Durban, South Africa, July 14. Reuters-Yonhap



Surveying the uneasy standoff between South African soldiers and huddles of young men faced off Wednesday across the rubble-strewn street in front of Soweto's Maponya mall, Katlego Motati shook her head sadly.



''I'm standing here against vandals and hooligans,'' the 32-year-old said of the weeklong unrest and looting sparked by the imprisonment of ex-President Jacob Zuma, which has left at least 72 people dead.



She was one of scores of residents who came out to stand against the rioting that has rocked poor areas of South Africa.



''When I saw the destruction ... I was in tears, seeing how all this has panned out,'' Motati said. ''At the end of the day, we will be struggling because of this. Our economy is going to be really damaged.''



South African police and the army grappled to bring order Wednesday to impoverished areas in Gauteng and Kwa-Zulu-Natal provinces that have been hit by rioting and theft sparked by Zuma's imprisonment last week.



More than 200 violent incidents happened overnight, the government said.



Authorities dramatically increased to 25,000 the number of army soldiers deployed to assist police in restoring order, Minister of Defense Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula announced Wednesday night, an acknowledgment that widespread patrols may be needed to prevent renewed attacks by gangs of poor youths.



Some 1,234 people have been arrested in the mayhem, and many of the deaths were caused by chaotic stampedes as thousands of people ransacked shops, stealing food, electrical appliances, liquor and clothes, police said.



Motati said she knows some of those who took part in the looting.



''People my age, in my neighborhood, are bragging about stealing things and getting shopping carts full of stuff,'' she said. ''Soon they will be coming to my place to borrow sugar. Those things won't help them.''



Motati, a trained chef with her own catering business, said it is hard to find clients amid the coronavirus pandemic.



''The pandemic has worsened things, for sure, but poverty, unemployment was bad already,'' she said of the economy, which was in recession before the pandemic.





Residents of Soweto shouts slogan in front of Maponya Mall in Soweto, as they protest against the wave of violence and looting that afflicted several South African provinces over the past four days, July 14. AFP-Yonhap



South Africa's jobless rate of 32 percent, is even higher among people younger than 35. Although the country of 60 million has Africa's most developed economy, it is one of the most unequal in the world, with more than 50 percent of people living in poverty and many suffering chronic food insecurity, according to the World Bank.



South Africa's poverty has grown since 1994 when apartheid, the brutal system of racial oppression, ended with democratic elections, exacerbating frustrations.



''The pandemic and lockdowns put even more people out of work. ... This was just an opportunity for people to take whatever they could get,'' Motati said. ''I don't think it stems from Zuma being locked up  it was building before that. Then one person kicks down the door and others follow.''



The violence erupted last week after Zuma began serving a 15-month sentence for contempt of court for refusing to comply with a court order to testify at a state-backed inquiry investigating allegations of corruption while he was president from 2009 to 2018.



The protests in Gauteng and Kwa-Zulu-Natal provinces escalated into a spree of theft in township areas, although it has not spread to South Africa's other seven provinces, where police are on alert.



KwaZulu-Natal, the eastern province that is Zuma's home area and where the protests first ignited, has seen significant violence. Trucks going to and from Durban, South Africa's largest port, may have to travel in convoys protected by the army, business leaders said.



The province is the center of South Africa's largest ethnic group, the Zulus, where Zuma has drawn considerable support. However, the Zulu monarch, King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, appealed Wednesday for an end to the mayhem and for peace to be restored.



''My father's people are committing suicide,'' he said. ''When food cannot be delivered because trucks and warehouses are burned, our people will go hungry.''



The violence ''has brought shame to all of us,'' he said.





A factory burns in the background while empty boxes litter the foreground from looted goods being removed, on the outskirts of Durban, South Africa, July 14. AP-Yonhap



Arson has damaged several factories and the government ordered gasoline not be sold in containers to discourage illegal fires.



A tense order appeared to have been achieved Wednesday by security forces in Gauteng, South Africa's most populous province which includes the largest city, Johannesburg.



''I can confirm that currently it's calm in Gauteng,'' said army Col. Mmathapelo Maine, as soldiers brandishing rifles stood by, protecting the large Maponya mall in Soweto.



''We have control of the situation and this is with the cooperation of the community,'' Maine said.



Across the street, scores of residents lined up to buy bread from a truck selling directly to people instead of delivering to shops that had been closed.



South African President Cyril Ramaphosa met online Wednesday with National Assembly political party leaders to urge all to work together to restore order.



Ramaphosa had consultations ''with different sectors of society to develop a society-wide response,'' said Tyrone Seale, the president's acting spokesman.



''The president said the destruction witnessed by the nation hurt all South Africans, not only those in the affected areas,'' he said. ''And it hurt the poor, the elderly, and the vulnerable the most.''



At Soweto's Diepkloof shopping center, business owners assessed the damage.



''It's just like being raped,'' said Thandi Johnson, looking at her shop, TWJ Events Supply, that had been cleaned out the day before by rioters. ''And then you see the rapist walking past you,'' she said gesturing toward residents walking by.



''Twelve years I've been working on this business and it's destroyed in one day,'' she said, shaking with anger as she looked at where she had sold balloons and decorations for children's parties and other events.



''They pushed me aside,'' she said of the rioters. ''I pleaded with them that I am one of them, but they just came in and took everything. Look!'' she said pointing to the bare shelves. ''I didn't come here by train, I'm a Sowetan! I'm born here.''



Johnson said she is worried that insurance will not cover her losses because she is not covered for political violence. ''I'll be finished,'' she said.





Local women uses brooms while a man sorts the rubble while cleaning the inside a clothing store at Diepkloof Square after looting and vandalism in Soweto, July 14. AFP-Yonhap
Japanese girls selected the most beautiful female K-pop idols on Ranking.Net. Want to know who made the top rankings? Then keep on reading!

Ranking.net is a website that determines rankings through users' and experts' votes in different categories. While anyone can make an account and vote, Ranking.Net also takes into account the opinions of experts who vote for the rankings.

TWICE Tzuyu and Chaeyoung Selected as the Top Two Most Beautiful Female K-Pop Idols

Ranking at the top of this ranking is none other than TWICE's visual makane, Tzuyu! Experts who voted for the female idol noted that Tzuyu ranked at the top of TC Candler's "100 Most Beautiful Faces in the World" list in 2019, proving her beloved visuals. Others also noted that despite being 172cm tall, Tzuyu's face does not appear bigger than her members', proving her small fa

Previously, Japanese plastic surgeon Mikiya Takasu said Tzuyu is one of the top ten female artists chosen by clients as their model when coming to his surgery clinic. She was the only foreigner on his list and the only K-pop idol mentioned.

The surgeon praised Tzuyu's harmonious features, saying her facial contour is perfect. He also complimented her perfect nose and pretty double eyelids.

ALSO READ: Japanese Plastic Surgeon Praises TWICE Tzuyu for Her Natural Beauty

Ranking in second place is fellow TWICE member Chaeyoung. Experts who voted for Chaeyoung said that since she is in charge of rap, many believed she would be cool and chic.

However, the more people get to know Chaeyoung, they discover that she is petite, cute, and full of energy.

Chaeyoung was praised for her positive energy and for her beauty that gets better and better with time.

BLACKPINK Lisa Selected as the Third Most Beautiful Female K-Pop Idol by Japanese Girls

Ranking in third place is none other than BLACKPINK's main dancer, Lisa! Experts praised the Thai idol for her beautiful and cool style. In addition, many appreciated the idol's extraordinary, cute, and chic personality.

In 2020, Lisa ranked number one on TC Candler's "100 Most Beautiful Faces of 2020" list. For the South East Asia version of this list, Lisa ranked at number one.

These are the Most Beautiful Female K-Pop Idols, According to Japanese Girls

1. TWICE's Tzuyu

2. TWICE's Chaeyoung

3. BLACKPINK's Lisa

4. IZ*ONE's Kim Chaewon

5. IZ*ONE's Kim Minju

6. TWICE's Mina

7. NiziU's Ayaka

8. TWICE's Momo

9. TWICE's Sana

10. Red Velvet's Irene

11. ITZY's Yuna

12. TWICE's Dahyun

13. TWICE's Jihyo

14. NiziU's Rio

15. IZ*ONE's Ahn Yujin

16. TWICE's Jeongyeon

17. Girls' Generation's YoonA

18. NiziU's Mako

19. TWICE's Nayeon

20. IZ*ONE's Jang Wonyoung

For more K-Pop news and updates, always keep your tabs open here on KpopStarz.

KpopStarz owns this article.

Written by Alexa Lewis
BTS' label, Big Hit Music, responds to reports of BTS featuring in Coldplay's song.

Keep on reading to know more.

BTS Reportedly Featuring in Coldplay's Upcoming Song + Big Hit Music Responds

Recently, there have been rumors circulating online that BTS will be featuring in an upcoming song of the British rock band Coldplay, called "My Universe."

The rumors first started of a potential collaboration in the making when BTS sang a cover of Coldplay's "Fix You" during their appearance on MTV's "Unplugged" earlier this year in February. The rumor was fueled even more when Coldplay visited Seoul, South Korea, back in April.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Printing Company Refuses to Print BTS and Stray Kids Photos, Claims They are LGBTQ+ Propaganda

BTS' fandom, ARMY, further believes that BTS will be featuring in a Coldplay song after MatchLyric, a website catering to song lyrics, had shared the lyrics of the song called "My Universe," which credits its artists as "Coldplay feat. BTS."

According to MatchLyric, "My Universe" is part of Coldplay's new album "Music of the Spheres," which is expected to be released sometime this year as the date has not yet been announced.

Regarding the rumors, Big Hit Music, BTS' label, released a response to the Korean media outlet, Newsen on July 15 KST, simply saying, "It is difficult to confirm."

However, ARMY took to their social media accounts to share their excitement on the potential collaboration, and are anticipating on what kind of "healing" music BTS and Coldplay would release together.

BTS and Coldplay have not yet made an official collaboration. However, on several occasions, they have shown respect and support for each other through their own social media accounts.

Meanwhile, Coldplay recently released their new song "Higher Power" back on May 7. While BTS just released the CD version of "Butter," which includes their new song "Permission to Dance," on July 9.

Are you hoping for the two bands to collaborate?

BTS Snags a Triple Crown on Weekly Gaon Charts

Gaon Chart has revealed this week's rankings based on the data accumulated from July 4 to July 10.

For this week, BTS has topped multiple Gaon charts, earning them a triple crown. For Gaon's album chart, the CD version of BTS' "Butter" had claimed the No.1 spot, with their new song included in the version, "Permission to Dance," topping the Download chart.

In addition, BTS has remained at the top for their 17th consecutive week on the Social Chart 2.0.

Besides that, BTS also remained in the Top 4 on other charts, such as taking No.3 on the Streaming chart and No.4 on the Digital chart with "Butter."

Meanwhile, BTS recently performed "Butter" and "Permission to Dance" on "The Tonight Show," starring Jimmy Fallon.

Congratulations to BTS!

YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN: 7 K-Pop Groups That Almost Disbanded

For more K-Pop news and updates, always keep your tabs open here on KpopStarz.

KpopStarz owns this article.

Written by Robyn Joan
Because of BTS, brands are gaining more interest from consumers!

Keep on reading to know more.

Study Reveals BTS' Collaborations Have Greatly Boosted Brand Interest in Southeast Asia

iPrice Group, a Malaysia-based online aggregator that compares and catalogs products for simplified consumer shopping experience, recently shared a study on BTS and how brands collaborating with the group saw an increase in their brand interest.

According to an official from iPrice Group in an interview with The Korea Times on July 14, Wednesday, iPrice Group found that the Google searches for one of the brands that BTS had collaborated with saw an increase of up to 83 percent in Southeast Asia for a certain period because of BTS, after listing down six of the most notable brand collaborations the group had in the last three years.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: BTS to Participate in Louis Vuitton's Fashion Show in Seoul

For the past eight years since BTS' debut back in 2013, the group had collaborated with numerous brands, and the number of brands that they collaborate with has only increased thanks to their growing and booming popularity. Most recently, the seven-member group has collaborated with top brands such as FILA, Tokopedia, Coca-Cola, McDonald's, Samsung, and Louis Vuitton.

According to the study conducted by iPrice Group, the recent collaboration of BTS with Coca-Cola has earned the drink manufacturer an increase of 83 percent in their brand interest, as compared to the previous year of the same time period.

In addition, McDonald's, the fast-food giant that recently collaborated with BTS to release the "BTS Meal," saw an increase of 57 percent in their brand interest. While Louis Vuitton, who selected BTS as their global ambassadors earlier this year, has an increase of 44 percent.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: McDonald's Philippines Sells Over 3 Million Chicken Nuggets on 'BTS Meal' Launch

Besides brand interest, Samsung also had an increase of 43 percent in their growth on a year-on-year basis after they released a special BTS edition of their Galaxy S20+ phone in July of last year.

Tokopedia, an Indonesian technology site specializing in e-commerce, also collaborated with BTS in 2020. In 2019, Tokopedia saw a decline in their brand interest. However, after BTS became their brand ambassador the following year, they were able to regain 32 percent in their brand interest.

The Most Popular Members of BTS in Southeast Asia Based on iPrice Group's Study

iPrice Group also included in their study the most popular members in BTS within Southeast Asia. According to their study, V is currently the most popular member in the region, taking up 26 percent of Southeast Asia's Google searches.

Following V is BTS' youngest member, Jungkook, who takes up 25 percent of the region's Google searches, while Jimin, the third most popular member, takes up 20 percent.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: BTS Reportedly Featuring in Coldplay's Upcoming Song + Big Hit Music Responds

Suga takes up 10 percent, Jin with nine percent, RM with six percent, and J-Hope with three percent.

Meanwhile, BTS recently featured in Louis Vuitton's Men's Fall-Winter 2021 Collection as they made their runway debut.

For more K-Pop news and updates, always keep your tabs open here on KpopStarz.

KpopStarz owns this article.

Written by Robyn Joan


MATERIAL HANDLER (Warehouse/Transport/Maintenance Worker) Company: Central Arizona Project Location: Phoenix, AZ Starting Pay Range: $21.49 - $22.59/hour Closing Date: 7/27/21 Job#: 966 About the Pay Note: The pay range listed reflects our STARTING PAY RANGE only and does not reflect the full range which steps up to $27.55 per hour (top pay typically reached within two years with proven mastery of skills and good performance). About Central Arizona Project Central Arizona Project, a 336-mile system that brings Colorado River water to central and southern Arizona, delivers the state's single largest renewable water supply and serves 80% of the state's population.



We employ nearly 500 people who enjoy a team oriented and safety focused work culture. The close community of a small company is driven to help fulfill our extremely valuable mission. We offer highly competitive salaries and excellent benefits including membership in the Arizona State Retirement System, 401(k), medical, dental, vision and life insurance coverage, 4-10 work schedule, and significant investment in employee training and development. Employees are eligible for benefits on their first day of employment. CAP is truly a great place to work! About the Responsibilities As a Maintenance Worker, you would perform supply chain warehouse tasks associated with the operation and maintenance of Central Arizona Project (CAP) Headquarters, Pumping Plants, Check Structures, Turnouts and Aqueduct facilities. Related duties consist of transporting supplies, equipment and hazardous material to remote locations along the 336-mile aqueduct; receiving functions involving detailed inspections of machined, fabricated and purchased material and equipment; identifying and tagging financial assets; issues materials and supplies; and completes transfer tickets from the main and satellite warehouses. Some of the duties include: Transports supplies, equipment and hazardous material to remote locations along the 336-mile aqueduct operating large trucks over 25,000-GVW and light trucks  ton to 1  ton and a 4WD propane truck. Performs vehicle and equipment pre-maintenance and safety checks as required Performs shipping and receiving functions including accurate, timely data entry into CMMS, financial and document management systems. Collaborates with Work Planners, Team Leaders and Supervisors in the inspection of shipments. Resolves any discrepancies in shipments with inventory control, procurement, accounting and vendors. Properly documents and tags all accountable property items. Assists Inventory Control with weekly cycle counts at main warehouse. Prepares sections scheduled for inventory by arranging and facing parts in proper locations. Performs spot inventories when issuing or stocking material. Conducts spot inventory weekly at satellite warehouses. Stores all incoming items by stock number and location, rotating older dated stock to the front. Creates bin boxes for new items and removes bin boxes of stock found to be obsolete. Stages incoming direct charge and inventory items according to issue ticket instructions and transportation schedules. Why is THIS Job Awesome?

Working for Central Arizona Projects MC&D department provides stability, a great work life balance while working a 4/10 work schedule. Benefits are another huge reason why people like working here. We offer retirement options, great health insurance, nine paid holidays, and accrued vacation and sick time. CAPs safety culture is top notch with very high standards and is also VPP certified. We provide proper training, PPE, tools and equipment to do your job safely and effectively every day. This position offers a variety of job functions that keeps the work interesting and enjoyable. You will get to see the whole project visiting all the pumping plants, check structures and meeting people from all the other departments within CAP. As an employee, you will have the autonomy to collaborate with many different functions within the organization, make decisions, take initiative, and utilize your skills to the fullest. There are also many opportunities for advancement. CAP has apprenticeships to apply for and offers professional development such as, tuition reimbursement program for those interested in furthering their education. In short, working for Central Arizona Projects MC&D department is an awesome place to work. About the Qualifications The minimum requirements include: A high school diploma or equivalent; three (3) years of work experience in warehouse methods and techniques, ability to safely operate heavy trucks over 25,000 pounds (GVW), forklifts 3,000 to 15,000 pounds, light trucks  ton to 1  ton along with general warehouse material handling equipment; the ability to use computer software programs, including enterprise asset management, financial, document management and Microsoft Office Suites and have the commitment to providing top customer service. A valid Class B Commercial Driver's license and a good driving record. (Note: A Hazardous Materials and tanker endorsement is required within six (6) months of hire date). Must have the ability to become certified to operate a 5000-pound liquid propane forklift and a 3000-pound electric forklift. Must maintain a CDL and follow all (Department of Transportation) DOT Hazardous Materials Carrier Regulations. Preference give to those candidates with knowledge of basic overhead crane and hoist hand signals, proper use of hand tools, inventory control and the ability to assist Material Control Specialists; proficient in the safe use of other material handling equipment such as electric cart and electric pallet jack. Having a Forklift certification and a Hazardous Materials and Tanker endorsement is a plus. Please note: This is a safety-sensitive position and requires physical testing along with a DOT annual physical examination. If you are experienced and highly skilled in the responsibilities of this job (mentioned above), have a team-focused positive approach to work, and are looking for a rewarding career with a stable organization in the North Phoenix area, then we encourage you to APPLY ONLINE TODAY at www.cap-az.com/jobs. EOE

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Location: 4030-El Dorado(HaulingDrivers)



Job Title

CDL Driver

Primary Location

Placerville, California

Employee Type

Employee

Job Description

El Dorado Disposal, a Waste Connections company, is looking to hire a safety conscious Garbage Truck Driver to join the team in Placerville, CA! This is a physical job where you will be working outside in all weather conditions. This is a full time, year round position. The schedule is Monday-Friday 3:30am or 4:30am to early afternoon, occasional Saturdays as needed. Starting pay is $25/hour. You will also be eligible for great family benefits including medical, dental, vision and a 401k with a company match! WE OFFER: Competitive Wage

Safety Bonuses of up to $1,000 a year

Boot Allowance of up to $200.00 a year

Uniforms Provided along with PPE gear.

Overtime DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Ability to safely operate a garbage truck on specified routes to collect solid waste. Waste experience preferred , but not required.

Ability to read route sheets and service each customer identified on the sheet or assigned by the dispatcher.

Perform routine inspection and maintenance on vehicles such as checking fluids, safety equipment, and tires.

Ability to perform a physically demanding job, loading and unloading, at times with no helpers.

Operate hydraulic hand controls to lift/load refuse and dispose of trash at designated facilities.

Courteous interaction with our customers and perform other miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned. WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL EFFORT: Extensive physical activity. Requires strenuous physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects over 50 pounds.

Work environment involves some exposure to physical risks such as moving mechanical parts. Which require following basic safety precautions.

The employee is exposed to outside weather, including frequent wet conditions, as well as exposure to fumes and vibration. Noise level is usually moderate. MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS: Valid Class A or B CDL with air brakes endorsement required.

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Minimum 1 year of experience that is directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.

Basic knowledge of truck components in order to complete pre- and post-trip inspections. To be considered for any of our current openings you must complete an application at www.wasteconnections.com. Application information and additional instructions can be found once you select your position of interest. We offer excellent benefits including: medical, dental, vision, flexible spending account, long term & short term disability, life insurance, 401K retirement and unlimited opportunities to "Connect with Your Future". Waste Connections is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer (Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran)




Elementary Special Education Teacher Job Description: If you currently do not hold proper licensure for the position, we will consider applicants who are willing to seek a SPED endorsement.



Basic Function: To devise and implement programs for students who have special needs that prevent them from learning through traditional methods. To assist and ensure that every student achieves his/her level of educational excellence in the areas of academic, career, and social/emotional development through collaborative partnership with students, family, educators and community.



Essential Functions: Demonstrates ability to enhance academic performance and support for implementation of the school district student achievement goals. Helps parents to understand the specific problems of educationally handicapped students and the goals and operation of the program, apprising them of problems and progress.

Accepts and demonstrates responsibility for creating a classroom culture that supports the learning of every student.

Creates an environment of mutual respect, rapport, and fairness.

Participates in and contributes to a school culture that focuses on improved student learning.

Communicates with students, families, colleagues, and communities effectively and accurately. Demonstrates competence in content knowledge appropriate to the teaching position. Determines specific learning problems, skill deficiencies, or social adjustment difficulties of students and initiates remediation programs in these areas.

Provides students with substitutes for other classes.

Understands and uses instructional strategies that are appropriate to the content area. Demonstrates competence in planning and preparing for instruction. Works closely with other teachers to help the students maintain satisfactory classwork, homework, and behavior, and communication.

Uses students developmental needs, background, and interests in planning for instruction.

Selects strategies to engage all students in learning.

Uses available resources, including technologies, in the development and sequencing of instruction. Uses strategies to deliver instruction that meet the multiple learning needs of students. Makes available a wide-range of teaching materials and equipment, including reading materials at many levels, instructional games, and resource materials.

Provides opportunities for students to explore life and career goals.

Demonstrates flexibility and responsiveness in adjusting instruction to meet student needs.

Engages students in varied experiences that meet diverse needs and promote social, emotional, and academic growth.

Connects students prior knowledge, life experiences, and interests in the instructional process.

Uses available resources, including technologies, in the delivery of instruction. Uses a variety of methods to monitor student learning. Evaluates each student in terms of initial needs and progress toward remediation.

Prepares progress reports, IEP updates according to the EIP, and year-end evaluations, administering pre-tests and post-tests as appropriate and necessary.

Participates in selection and evaluation of students for admission to the program of education for such students.

Participates in case conferences about educationally handicapped students.

Performs basic attendance accounting and similar record-keeping functions pertinent to the educationally handicapped program.

Completes Individual Education Plans (IEP) appropriately in a timely manner and attends IEP meetings.

Works as a team member with auxiliary personnel (AEA) staff within the building, parents and students. Demonstrates competence in classroom management. Establishes and maintains standards of individual student behavior. Creates a learning community that encourages positive social interaction, active engagement, and self-regulation for every student. Creates a safe and purposeful learning environment. Engages in professional growth. Demonstrates habits and skills of continuous inquiry and learning.

Works collaboratively to improve professional practice and student learning.

Applies research, knowledge, and skills from professional development opportunities to improve practice.

Establishes and implements professional development plans based upon the teacher needs aligned to the Iowa Teaching Standards and district/building student achievement goals. Fulfills professional responsibilities established by the school district. Adheres to board policies, district procedures, and contractual obligations.

Demonstrates professional and ethical conduct as defined by state law and individual district policy.

Contributes to efforts to achieve district and building goals.

Demonstrates an understanding of and respect for all learners and staff.

Collaborates with students, families, colleagues, and communities to enhance student learning.



Specifications/Qualifications: Proper education and licensure as required by the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners. EOE

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OB/GYN Associates, P.C. in currently recruiting for a float nurse to work full time (40 hours) Monday thru Friday, between the hours of 8-5. Sign-on bonus available! This position will provide nursing support to ambulatory patients throughout the office. The float nurse will have a wide range of responsibility, including but not limited to, assessing patient vitals, acquiring patient history with accurate documentation, record concerns or symptoms and provide assistance with the patients questions and concerns as well as help provide patient education. Float nurses may assist as a primary nurse, procedure nurse, triage nurse or in other nursing roles after orientation. The expectations of a float nurse, besides providing exceptional patient care, includes the ability to prioritize in their assistance of others, be knowledgeable and current in carrying out the specific responsibilities in all clinical nursing areas, and be able to build and maintain staff relationships. The requirements for this position include completion of an accredited nursing program and must possess a current RN license. For additional information or to apply for the position, please forward a cover letter and resume to Jackie Martin, RN, BSN via email by clicking apply now.

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Specialist 1, Student Records Management -SAT Req # 21001 Job Summary Under minimal supervision, will be responsible for closing out and issuing certificates for students who complete programs of study, will audit course work ensuring all program requirements have been met. Manage graduation tables in Banner. Will track and monitor students who are working in Competency Based Education (CBE) programs, will send out missing attendance reports for students who have not been in attendance. Provide daily support to all School of Applied Technology (SAT) staff and faculty. Understands all SAT policies and procedures in addition to Office of Registrar and Academic Records policies and procedures. Will have the ability to register, withdrawal and drop students from courses. Scan and index permanent student files into Etrieve. Troubleshoot problems experienced by faculty and staff with SAT secondary reporting systems. Assist faculty with grade changes and course changes. Be proactive in responding to follow-up items. Has firm knowledge of FERPA regulations, maintains confidentiality when dealing with student records. Provides education verification within FERPA policys. Required to assist students, staff and faculty in person, via email and over the phone. Essential Responsibilities and Duties Responsible for the maintenance of graduation tables in Banner, auditing and issuing certificates to students who have successfully completed program training. Makes decisions based on policy and processes, for both Competency Based Education (CBE) and Legacy reporting systems. Troubleshoot and research registration, scheduling concerns for faculty, staff and students. Monitor and ensure that policy and procedures for both SAT and ORAR are being upheld. Monitor daily system generated reports for both the legacy and CBE systems. Send out notices to advising and instruction regarding missing attendance in the legacy system, send out notices to instruction for CBE related issues. Retrieve and research students records as needed. Assist with the preparation of student records for long term storage by filling documents, imaging documents into Etrieve. Works with general office equipment (e.g. copy machines, fax, scanner, computer, sub-systems, etc.) Other duties as assigned. Preferred Qualifications -Experience with Banner software, Etrieve, and student records retention. -Ability to effectively communicate with faculty and staff. -Experience working in Higher Education and student services environments. Minimum Qualifications -Associates Degree or completion of 60 credit hours higher education. -Zero (0) to two (2) years direct, paid, full-time experience working a student services environment. -Trade offs will be considered on a one-to-one ratio (eg. 2 years related experience in lieu of 60 credit hours of education). -Part time experience will be considered on a prorated basis. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities -Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. -Ability to work with diverse populations. -Ability to work well in a collaborative, team oriented environment. -Ability to work in a fast-paced, flexible environment, have the ability to change as the need arises. -Excellent organizational skills including the ability to multitask. -Provide excellent customer service. -Ability to understand, utilize and perform complex tasks on SAT student information systems. -Make sound and equitable decisions. -Ability to learn new software programs. -Banner computer software and student systems, word processing excel, web navigation skills, database management. -Ability to solve problems creatively. -Ability to understand and enforce school and departmental policies and procedures. -Ability to communicate effectively with a broad range of diverse people, abilities, culture, ethnic background, to maintain good working relationships across the College. -Ability to work with all groups in a diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural and ethnic background of community college students, faculty and staff, including those with disabilities. Non-Essential Responsibilities and Duties Special Instructions Full consideration will be given to applicants who apply on or before the priority review date indicated above.

More information about Salt Lake Community College benefits: http://i.slcc.edu/hr/docs/benefits/benefits-summary-current.pdf FLSA Non-Exempt SLCC Information Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) is fully committed to policies of equal employment and nondiscrimination. The College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability, religion, protected veteran status, expression of political or personal beliefs outside of the workplace, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. SLCC is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (URS). This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check. All Candidates must apply at SLCC job site. For immediate consideration, please click Apply. SLCC is an AA/EEO employer. https://jobs.slcc.edu/postings/49782

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Logistics done differently. Are you someone with a keen eye for spotting top-level talent and the know-how to successfully bring them on board? At XPO Logistics, we believe that hiring great people is critical to our success. As the Recruiter,youll be empowered to develop and implement staffing strategies to recruit qualified employees, create a robust talent pipeline and establish XPO as an employer of choice. We're excited to have you join us in this significant role that is critical in positioning XPO for long-term success. Pay, benefits and more. We are eager to attract the best, so we offer competitive compensation and a generous benefits package, including full health insurance (medical, dental and vision), 401(k), life insurance, disability and more. What youll do on a typical day: Collaborate with hiring managers and the HR team to ensure positions are filled with highly talented candidates in a seamless manner

Coordinate and ensure the accuracy and efficiency of recruiting processes, and the associated paperwork related to staffing, relocation, etc.

Represent and participate in professional and college recruitment events to foster strong relationships and fill open positions

Utilize online sourcing techniques to identify qualified candidates What you need to succeed at XPO: At a minimum, youll need: Bachelors degree or equivalent related work or military experience

1 year of progressively responsible experience in HR, specifically in employment, high-volume recruiting, EEO and compliance

Experience with Microsoft Office

Bilingual English/Spanish Itd be great if you also have: 2 years of progressively responsible experience in HR, specifically in employment, high-volume recruiting, EEO and compliance

Excellent organizational, verbal and written communication skills

Strong interpersonal and customer service skills Be part of something big. XPO is a leading provider of cutting-edge supply chain solutions to the most successful companies in the world. We help our customers manage their goods most efficiently using our technology and services. Our greatest strength is our global team energetic, innovative people of all experience levels and talents who make XPO a great place to work. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, disability, veteran or other protected status. XPO adheres to CDC, OSHA and state and local requirements regarding COVID safety. All employees and visitors are expected to comply with XPO policies which are in place to safeguard our employees and customers. All applicants who receive a conditional offer of employment may be required to take and pass a pre-employment drug test. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. All employees may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.




Description

The Dallas ISD Board of Trustees on Jan. 28 adopted three calendars for the next two school years, with the majority of schools set to have a traditional calendar. Click the appropriate calendar below to see your campuses schedule for the 2021-2022 School Year: Base Calendar

Intersession Calendar

School Day Redesign 1

School Day Redesign 2 Develop and implement lesson plans that fulfill requirements of the district's curriculum program and show written evidence of preparation as required

Prepare lessons that reflect accommodations for differences in student learning styles

Present subject matter according to guidelines established by Texas Education Agency, Board of Trustee policies, and administrative regulations

Establish efficient classroom management procedures

Establish and maintain standards of pupil behavior

Establish a system of students evaluation within the guidelines prescribed in state law or adopted by the school district

Continually evaluate and record various aspects of students' progress and report to parents as needed and required

Teach within the course of study for the subject area at the grade level as prescribed in state law or adopted by the school district

Understand and plan lessons leading to subject area objectives and assume the responsibility for written lesson plans for substitutes

Provide a variety of planned learning experiences using a variety of media and methods in order to motivate students and best utilize available time for instruction

Identify pupil needs and cooperate with other professional staff members in assessing and helping students resolve health, attitude, and learning problems

Be available for counseling with students and parents before and after school.

Share the responsibility of interpreting the educational programs to the community through such activities as open house and PTA meetings

Plan and coordinate the work of aides and other paraprofessional and student teachers (when applicable)

Participate cooperatively with the principal to develop the system by which he/she will be evaluated in conformance with the district's uniform guidelines for evaluation and assessment

Keep accurate records of student information; compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other documents required by the school and district

Performs all other tasks and duties as assigned

Regular and punctual attendance at the worksite is required for this position WORK ENVIRONMENT: The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Travel throughout the district is integral to this job. A remote working environment /alternate work arrangement is not an option for campus-based employees/campus-based positions because regular and punctual attendance at the worksite and performing all duties at the worksite are essential job duties for all campus-based personnel.



Qualifications

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required of this job: Bachelor's Degree from an accredited university; valid Texas teacher certificate with required endorsements for subject and subject level assigned.

Demonstrated general knowledge of curriculum and instruction.

Demonstrated knowledge of various routine tasks, duties, and procedures and the ability to follow specific instructions with little or no previous experience.

Present subject matter according to guidelines established by Texas Education Agency, Board of Trustee policies, and administrative regulations.

Establish efficient classroom management procedures.

Demonstrated flexibility to cope with the challenges of a rapidly changing world

Demonstrated willingness to remain current with the latest developments in the profession






Location: United States of America (remote)

Location: San Francisco - California

Location: Indianapolis - Indiana

Job Description Sr. Customer Experience (CX) Commerce Manager Business Group: Customer Experience (CX) Business Unit: Global Sales & Marketing Reports to: CX Commerce Leader Work Location: Remote - Anywhere in the US or EMEA Eligible for Relocation: No Summary Rockwell Automation is the largest company in the world dedicated to industrial automation and information. Here, we connect the imaginations of people with the potential of technology to make the world more intelligent, more connected and more productive. From improving the production of medicines that boost human health to reducing waste in an oil and gas plant, the work we do changes how we live. We truly believe we are doing things never before possible. And we need the brightest minds to help make that happen - the makers, the forward thinkers, the problem solvers. That's where you come in. The work of the Customer Experience (CX) center recognizes the need for increasingly new and innovative experience delivery to address changing market needs and increasingly demanding user expectations of how they engage with companies. The team has a strategic brief to enhance our customer and partner experience across their entire customer journey and across our entire portfolio offering. Unlocking value for our customers via digital experience. This role reports to the Direct Customer Experience Leader and can be located anywhere in the US or EMEA. What you will do Design and integrate frictionless commerce experiences throughout all phases of the customer journey and respective touchpoints. simplifying customer workflows.

As a CX commerce manager you connect business strategy, design knowledge, and customer needs to develop, deliver, and maintain a set of capabilities and their associated customer experiences that are relevant, feasible, and valuable for the customer and the business. You are focused on optimizing these capabilities and experiences to achieve the desired customer outcomes, user necessities and business goals while maximizing return on investment.

The commerce capabilities are focused on solving the customer pains and delivering new gains and enabling the business to be profitable.

You are empowering stakeholders and colleagues to deliver the highest value. You are defining what problem to solve, for who, why, and when. You drive the product vision, and you push your development team towards the north star of your vision.

You will work with folks of all kinds to create a powerful engine of experimentation, creativity, and improvement. You oversee improving the development team and the business, and you are in charge of keeping the customer happy.

On top of that, you distill quantitative and qualitative data from metrics, customer research and feedback, market trends, competitive analysis, and more - all so that you can make the highest ROI decision available.

From this distillation of information, it is your responsibility to prioritize products and features that the team should be focusing on as well as convincing stakeholders and senior management to get on board. As a good CX commerce manager, you also lay out an actionable plan to execute these proposed ideas.

Once it is time to build a capability or experience you ensure that details are taken care of, it is well tested and ready to be implemented on time. Once implemented, the job isn't done. You need to determine the success of the capability/experience by understanding how customers interact with it. This feedback gives us context and data for future iterations of the capability/experience and informs ongoing roadmaps. Skills you have Communication Whether in person or through other mediums you should be spending time with customers to understand that what your team is building is valuable for your customers. Time with customers will also help you plan upcoming features. Product Backlog Management You are responsible for managing the capability feature backlog and ensuring that that the development team have a steady flow of feature development work. You prioritize which features your team will work on in upcoming sprints. Strategic Planning You oversee determining not just the immediate next work items of the capability, but also the long-term capability/experience strategy and vision. It is critical to stay in sync with changes in the industry and in the competitive landscape. Capability Performance Management You are responsible not just for the current performance of the capability, but also for the future performance. You have a vision for where you are taking the product, and that your vision will work well together with their visions of other capabilities. User story creation, specification definition In your role you make sure that we have comprehensive specs for new features and capabilities. Part of the spec includes business goals, user stories, product requirements, and customer context. You will also be responsible for delivering wireframes and customer journeys as part of your spec. You will own the definition for what a good user experience looks like. Collaboration with Other Teams You will spend a significant chunk of your time in meetings with various cross-functional teams like sales, marketing, business development and our enterprise transformation office. You will also meet with stakeholders and sponsors to keep them up to date with your progress or pitch them your capability vision and for additional investments. Furthermore, you will regularly meet with customers and users to understand their pains and confirm whether your capability is solving their needs. Data Analysis and metrics Data is crucial to making well-informed capability and experience decisions. In your role you should be able to understand and pull data together to run analyses. You should be able to measure, interpret and explain key performance indicators After all, if you don't understand the data, you'll struggle to identify what business value your product is meant to drive and delivering. Basic qualifications BS/BA degree in a relevant discipline

Nice to have: An advanced degree in a behavioral Science related field

Legal authorization to work in the US/EMEA is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this job opening. Preferred qualifications You are someone who wants to influence your own development, who views a job title not as the final definition of who you are, but the starting point. At least 5+ years of Customer Experience, Design Thinking or Service Design experience, ideally designing and building experiences in a B2B context.

Proficiency in service design methods including customer research, customer journey mapping, and service blueprinting

Hands-on experience in designing experiences across a variety of digital touch points and non-digital channels

Deep knowledge of project management processes, systems development methods, organizational change management concepts, and business process improvement methods.

Self-starter with strong business judgment who can initiate action and follow through with well-defined solutions and action plans.

Outcome oriented. Define, track and measure KPIs.

Excellent communication and organization skills, including experience speaking and presenting at large audiences

Ability to work harmoniously in a matrixed organization and with cross-functional teams.

Proficiency with virtual collaboration and whiteboarding tools such as Mural or Miro

A passion creating great customer experiences Who we are We are a global leader in industrial automation and digital transformation. We connect the imaginations of people with the potential of technology to expand what is humanly possible, making the world more productive and more sustainable. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, we employ approximately 23,000 problem solvers dedicated to our customers in more than 100 countries. EEO Statement Rockwell Automation is an Equal Opportunity Employer including disability and veterans. If you are an individual with a disability and you need assistance or reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact our services team at +1 (see application details). This position is part of a job family. Experience will be the determining factor. #LifeAtROK #LI-Remote **For the right candidate, this position could be worked remotely from any location in the US We are an Equal Opportunity Employer including disability and veterans. If you are an individual with a disability and you need assistance or a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact our services team at +1 (see application details).






SOLICITATION NUMBER: 72011721R06 Solicitation for a Translator/Communications Assistant, Cooperating Country National Personal S SOLICITATION NUMBER: 72011721R06 ISSUANCE DATE: 07/07/2021 CLOSING DATE/TIME: 08/07/2021 at 11:59 p.m. Chisinau Time SUBJECT: Solicitation for a Translator/Communications Assistant, Cooperating Country National Personal Service Contractor (CCN PSC) under the Local Compensation Plan. Dear Prospective Offerors: The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking offers from qualified persons to provide personal services under contract as described in this solicitation. Offers must be in accordance with Attachment 1, Sections I through V of this solicitation. Incomplete or unsigned offers will not be considered. Offerors should retain copies of all offer materials for their records. This solicitation in no way obligates USAID to award a PSC contract, nor does it commit USAID to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the offers. Any questions must be directed in writing to the Point of Contact specified in the attached information. Sincerely, /s/ Ellen Zehr Contracting Officer Date Monday, July 12, 2021 - 3:00am



Job Attachment



57/1 Banulescu Bodoni St., ASITO 5th Fl., 2005 Chisinau, Moldova. Phone: +373 (22) 20-1800; Fax: 23-7277;http://moldova.usaid.gov SOLICITATION NUMBER: 72011721R06 ISSUANCE DATE: 07/07/2021 CLOSING DATE/TIME: 08/07/2021 at 11:59 p.m. Chisinau Time SUBJECT: Solicitation for a Translator/Communications Assistant, Cooperating Country National Personal Service Contractor (CCN PSC) under the Local Compensation Plan. Dear Prospective Offerors: The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking offers from qualified persons to provide personal services under contract as described in this solicitation. Offers must be in accordance with Attachment 1, Sections I through V of this solicitation. Incomplete or unsigned offers will not be considered. Offerors should retain copies of all offer materials for their records. This solicitation in no way obligates USAID to award a PSC contract, nor does it commit USAID to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the offers. Any questions must be directed in writing to the Point of Contact specified in the attached information. Sincerely, /s/ Ellen Zehr Contracting Officer 57/1 Banulescu Bodoni St., ASITO 5th Fl., 2005 Chisinau, Moldova. Phone: +373 (22) 20-1800; Fax: 23-7277;http://moldova.usaid.gov I. GENERAL INFORMATION 1. SOLICITATION NO.: 72011721R06 2. ISSUANCE DATE: 07/07/2021 3. CLOSING DATE/TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: 08/07/2021 at 11:59 p.m. Chisinau Time 4. POSITION TITLE: Translator/Communications Assistant 5. MARKET VALUE: Basic Annual rate (in U.S. Dollars): $17,894 to $26,826 In accordance with AIDAR Appendix J and ADS 309, the Local Compensation Plan (in effect at the time) of the U.S. Embassy to Moldova forms the basis of compensation. The LCP consists of the local salary schedule, which includes salary rates, authorized fringe benefits, and other pertinent facets of compensation. Final basic compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value. This salary range is not inclusive of other benefits and allowances. 6. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Employment under any contract issued under this solicitation is of a continuing nature. Its duration is expected to be part of a series of sequential contracts; all contract clauses, provisions, and regulatory requirements concerning availability of funds and the specific duration of the contract shall apply. The initial CCNPSC contract will be for an initial five year period, with possible renewal pending continued need for the position, contractor performance, and funds availability. 7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Chisinau, Moldova. 8. SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Foreign Service National Security Certification 9. STATEMENT OF DUTIES: The Translator/Communications Assistant provides written translation and oral interpretation for Mission personnel from English into Romanian or Russian, or Romanian or Russian into English. While the position is located in the Development Outreach Communications (DOC) team of the Program Office, the incumbent is expected to provide services to the Mission Front Office, technical and support offices. S/he be familiar with technical and specialized terminology, as well as with certain terms that may be unique to the U.S. Government or international organizations. S/he will interpret written and spoken material while ensuring that meaning and context are maintained. The Translator/Communications is required to produce, using word processing programs including Microsoft Office and Google G Suite, finished and/or edited materials ready for submission to end users or for further distribution. 57/1 Banulescu Bodoni St., ASITO 5th Fl., 2005 Chisinau, Moldova. Phone: +373 (22) 20-1800; Fax: 23-7277;http://moldova.usaid.gov MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Written and Oral Translation Provides timely and accurate written translations, as requested by Mission personnel, in day to day communication with Government of Moldova (GOM), civil society and private sector counterparts, and other partners and beneficiaries. Provides Romanian/Russian - English translation of documents, such as reports, studies, and activity documents and English - Romanian/Russian translations of key documentations that is prepared by the Mission. Provides oral interpretation services to USAID staff during meetings with GOM, engagements with media, civil society and private sector counterparts, and other partners and beneficiaries. Reviews written translation materials in order to ensure accuracy and preservation of original meaning of source material Consults with technical offices and subject matter experts in order to understand specialized concepts and translate them appropriately In a timely manner, provides condense written translation versions of documents, as requested by Mission personnel and approved by Supervisor. Administrative Tasks As needed, assist DOC Specialist in administrative and logistic needs related to DOC activities such as media monitoring and social media monitoring/content development. Provides support services for preparation and during high level and regular site visits, in close collaboration with control officers and the DOC team SUPERVISORY RELATIONSHIP: Employee is expected to work independently, receiving general guidance from the DOC Specialist and Program Officer. Supervision Exercised: None. 10. AREA OF CONSIDERATION: Open to All Interested CCN (Cooperating Country National) Candidates. "Cooperating country" means the country in which the employing USAID Mission is located. "Cooperating country national" ("CCN") means an individual who is a cooperating country citizen or a non-cooperating country citizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the cooperating country. 57/1 Banulescu Bodoni St., ASITO 5th Fl., 2005 Chisinau, Moldova. Phone: +373 (22) 20-1800; Fax: 23-7277;http://moldova.usaid.gov NOTE: ALL CCNs MUST HAVE THE REQUIRED WORK AND/OR RESIDENCY PERMITS TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR CONSIDERATION. THE MISSION DOES NOT SPONSOR WORK PERMITS. 11. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The work requested does not involve undue physical demands. 12. POINT OF CONTACT: Completed offers (including all required documents - see section IV below) must be submitted electronically to: (see application details) . When submitting an application, the solicitation number and the title of the position are to be mentioned in the subject line of the email. II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION Education: Minimum of college/university studies in English, Romanian, and Russian or translation/interpretation or related is required. Prior Work Experience: Minimum of three years of translating and providing oral interpretation from Romanian and Russian into English, and from English to Romanian and Russian is required. Language Proficiency: Level V English ability is required. Level V Romanian is required. Level V Russian is required. Only offerors clearly meeting the above minimum qualifications will be considered for further evaluation. FOREIGN SERVICE NATIONAL SECURITY CERTIFICATION AND MEDICAL CLEARANCES: The ability to obtain the required foreign national security certification and medical clearances for the position is considered a minimum qualification. See section V below. The probationary period is three months. III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS Selection Process and Basis of Evaluation: Offerors who clearly meet the aforementioned minimum education and work experience qualification requirements may be further evaluated through review of the offeror's submitted required documents (see section IV below) and ranked based on the below evaluation and selection factors. A competitive range may be established of the highest-ranked offerors, who may be further evaluated through technical/language tests, interviews, and reference checks to determine the most qualified/highest-ranked offeror. Reference checks may be conducted with individuals not provided by the offeror, and without prior notification to the offeror. Any offeror not receiving satisfactory reference checks will no longer be considered for the position. Negotiations may be conducted with the most qualified/ highest-ranked offeror at the conclusion of evaluations. 10 points - Education: Minimum of college/university studies in English, Romanian, and Russian or translation/interpretation or related is required. Additional education in the aforementioned areas is desired. 57/1 Banulescu Bodoni St., ASITO 5th Fl., 2005 Chisinau, Moldova. Phone: +373 (22) 20-1800; Fax: 23-7277;http://moldova.usaid.gov 30 points - Experience: Minimum of three years of translating and providing oral interpretation from Romanian and Russian into English, and from English to Romanian and Russian is required. Additional experience in the aforementioned areas, especially with the USG, is desired. 30 points - Knowledge: Ability to perform basic and more in-depth research and analysis using electronic and printed resources in a variety of technical subject areas in order to become familiar with the terminology relevant in each of the subject areas, where translation and interpretation is required. Advanced knowledge in one or more of the aforementioned areas is desired. 30 points - Skills and Abilities: Should be a fully proficient user of MS Word, Power Point and Excel, including ability to format text, create and edit charts/graphs. Should be able to utilize Internet search engines (Google etc.) to obtain factual, background and other material as may be required for translation and interpretation. Should be willing to learn how to use simultaneous interpretation equipment available at the Mission. Should be tactful and discreet in dealing with employees and external contacts, and maintain confidentiality of any privileged information and/or communications at all times. Additional skills and abilities will be desired. TOTAL POSSIBLE POINTS: 100 points IV. PRESENTING AN OFFER/APPLYING FOR THIS POSITION 1. Eligible Offerors are required to complete and submit through email all the below documents in order to be considered for the position. a. Completed DS-174 (application for Employment as Locally Employed Staff) which can be retrieved here: https://eforms.state.gov/Forms/ds174.pdf Offerors must complete the DS-174 form in English, and are advised to include all of their current and previous work experience related to this position. Offerors may use continuation pages to further explain their relevant work experience, if needed. An Internal Offeror's experience acquired before/after joining U.S. Government should correspond to the information provided in the Official Personnel Folder (OPF). Any discrepancy found between the current application form (DS-174) and the information provided in the OPF related to offeror's qualifications could make the offeror ineligible for the position. b. A cover letter of no more than 2 pages that demonstrates how the Offeror's qualifications meet the evaluation and selection factors in section III. Excess pages (beyond 2) will not be read or considered. c. A CV or standard resume of no more than 4 pages. d. Names of three professional references, including at least one current/former supervisor, that have knowledge of the offeror's ability to perform the duties set 57/1 Banulescu Bodoni St., ASITO 5th Fl., 2005 Chisinau, Moldova. Phone: +373 (22) 20-1800; Fax: 23-7277;http://moldova.usaid.gov forth in the solicitation. This information may be included in the cover letter or resume/CV. Offerors who do not include all above required documents in their offer submission will not be considered for this position. Offers must be received by the closing date and time specified in Section I, item 3, and submitted to the Point of Contact in Section I, item 12 by email with appropriate attachments. Documents/offers received through links to Google Drive, Sky Drive, and/or any other private cloud computing database/websites will not be considered. To ensure consideration of offers for the intended position, Offerors are to prominently reference the Solicitation number in the offer submission NOTE: Due to the high volume of applications received, we may only contact applicants who are being considered. Thank you for your understanding. V. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSC HIRES Once the Contracting Officer (CO) informs the successful Offeror about being selected for a contract award, the HR unit will provide the successful Offeror instructions about how to complete and submit the following forms, needed to obtain medical and security/facility access. 1. Questionnaire for Employment Authorization (U.S. Embassy Moldova form) 2. Authorization for Release of Information (U.S. Embassy Chisinau's form) 3. Certificate of Criminal Records (obtained from the pertinent authorities) Failure of the selected offeror to accurately complete and submit required documents in a timely manner may be grounds for the CO to rescind any conditional pre-contract salary offer letter and begin negotiations with the next most qualified/highest ranked offeror. VI. BENEFITS/ALLOWANCES The local compensation plan (LCP) is the basis for all compensation payments to locally employed staff /CCNPSCs. The LCP consists of the local salary schedule, which includes salary rates, authorized fringe benefits, and other pertinent facets of compensation such as health and life insurance, and retirement allowance. As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a PSC is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances: 1. BENEFITS: Health Insurance coverage Defined Contribution Fund 12% 2. ALLOWANCES (as applicable): 57/1 Banulescu Bodoni St., ASITO 5th Fl., 2005 Chisinau, Moldova. Phone: +373 (22) 20-1800; Fax: 23-7277;http://moldova.usaid.gov The Mission provides meal allowance in accordance with the Moldova Local Compensation Plan, in amount of $770. Additional information may be provided to the selected offeror at time of salary offer. VII. TAXES Local Employed Staff are responsible for paying local income taxes. The U.S. Mission does withhold year-end local income tax payments. VIII. USAID REGULATIONS, POLICIES AND CONTRACT CLAUSES PERTAINING TO PSCs USAID regulations and policies governing CCN/TCN PSC awards are available at these sources: 1. USAID Acquisition Regulation (AIDAR), Appendix J, "Direct USAID Contracts With a Cooperating Country National and with a Third Country National for Personal Services Abroad," including contract clause "General Provisions," available at https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1868/aidar_0.pdf . 2. Contract Cover Page form AID 309-1 available at https://www.usaid.gov/forms . 3. Acquisition & Assistance Policy Directives/Contract Information Bulletins (AAPDs/CIBs) for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals available at http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds- cibs. AAPD 16-03 Expanded Incentive Awards for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals AAPD 06-08 AIDAR, Appendices D and J: Using the Optional Schedule to Incrementally Fund Contracts 4. Ethical Conduct. By the acceptance of a USAID personal services contract as an individual, the contractor will be acknowledging receipt of the "Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Executive Branch," available from the U.S. Office of Government Ethics, in accordance with General Provision 2 and 5 CFR 2635. See https://www.oge.gov/web/oge.nsf/OGE%20Regulations. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: The United States Government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.




Location: 4050-Chiquita Canyon Landfill



Job Title

Shop Laborer

Primary Location

Castaic, California

Employee Type

Employee

Job Description

Chiquita Canyon Landfill, a Waste Connections company, is looking to hire a Shop Laborer to join our team in Castaic, CA! The schedule will be Monday-Friday 7:00am-3:30pm, plus some required Saturdays and overtime. Pay will start around $18 per hour. Responsibilities Include: Wash/blow out machines during scheduled preventative maintenance.

Assist with daily preventative maintenance on equipment.

Move and assist in the set up of fans, air compressors, light towers as needed.

Diagnose, repair, perform daily inspections and, scheduled PMs on misting systems and fans.

Drive the lube truck, perform the daily PM tasks, and take on a back- up lube tech role.

Receive filter/parts orders, place parts in the proper storage shelves. Help with inventory control.

Maintain water filtration system at wash pad. Clean wash pad after every use.

Keep shop clean, empty trash, sweep floors, and deep clean work areas as needed.

Keep tire storage area clean, organized.

Assist mechanics with other tasks as needed. Working Conditions and Physical Effort: Extensive physical activity. Requires strenuous physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects over 50 pounds.

Work environment involves some exposure to physical risks such as moving mechanical parts which require following basic safety precautions.

The employee is exposed to outside weather, including frequent wet and/or humid conditions, as well as exposure to fumes and vibration. Noise level is usually moderate. Requirements: At least 1 year of work experience. Preferably in a facility maintenance/mechanic type role

The ability to stand outside throughout the shift

Ability and will to work in all weather conditions

Must pass drug screen and pre-employment background check. To be considered for any of our current openings you must complete an application at www.wasteconnections.com. Application information and additional instructions can be found once you select your position of interest. We offer excellent benefits including: medical, dental, vision, flexible spending account, long term & short term disability, life insurance, 401K retirement and unlimited opportunities to "Connect with Your Future". Waste Connections is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer (Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran)




Location: 6501-Georgia Hauling



Job Title

Diesel Mechanic

Primary Location

Acworth, Georgia

Employee Type

Employee

Job Description

American Disposal, a Waste Connections Company, is looking for an experienced Diesel Mechanic to join the team at our Hauling location in Acworth,GA. This position will work the 2nd shift: 1:00pm-Midnight Monday through Friday. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Perform repairs and assigned preventative maintenance services. Performs inspections, diagnosis, and repair of electrical, hydraulics, suspension, brake and air systems on vehicles and equipment.

Utilize vehicle computer electronic systems to interpret failure modes to initiate or assign repairs.

Complete required paperwork utilizing fleet maintenance software program associated with repairing vehicles, documenting parts usage, and accounting for repair times.

Reviews, completes, or assigns repairs identified on Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports.

Conducts safety checks on vehicles and equipment.

Performs service calls for emergency breakdowns.

Maintain a clean, safe work environment in compliance with corporate and OSHA standards.

Typical schedule is Monday-Friday, occasional Saturdays as needed. REQUIREMENTS: Minimum 5 years of experience that is directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.

Must provide own personal tools.

Valid Class B CDL with air brakes endorsement preferred.

Welding/fabrication experience a huge plus! We offer excellent benefits including: medical, dental, vision, flexible spending account, long term disability, life insurance, 401K retirement. Waste Connections is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer (Minorities/Female/Disabled/Veterans)




DENTIST Dr. Jeffery A. Saladin, Dental Corporation is seeking Associate Dentists to diagnose and treat diseases, injuries, and malformations of teeth and gums and related oral structures, and provide preventive and corrective services. Work location: Modesto, CA. Req. DDS/DMD and State dental license. Multiple openings. Please send hard copy resume & cover letter to Dr. Jeffery A. Saladin, Dental Corporation  ATTN: Tonya Christopher, 1164 National Drive, Ste. 40, Sacramento, CA 95834. Please include the office location you wish to apply for in the cover letter.

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Job Title: Material Handler Shift: 12 Hour Night Shift  7:00pm  7:30am SUMMARY: This position is responsible for handling materials at production work cells. The Material Handler acts as a liaison between the Packer and warehouse. All personal efforts must maintain alignment with company standards and a continuous improvement mindset. Comar offers competitive compensation, 401K match, career growth, comprehensive medical plan, tuition reimbursement, complimentary steel toed boots each year, Employee Assistance Program for you and family members, Employee Recognition, work life balance, among other perks. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. Our dynamic plastics manufacturing company is seeking a Material Handler for our plastics facility in Hoschton, GA. This position will be responsible for handling materials at the warehouse and will act as a liaison between the plant and the warehouse. About 30% of your duties will require you to operate a sit-down fork lift and 70% of responsibilities will include material handling, color changes, minor machine operation, and other assigned warehouse duties. This position offers an excellent benefits plan that includes 401K match, Comprehensive Health Package, Employee Assistance Program, Work/Life Balance, Career Growth, Tuition Reimbursement, among other perks. QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  Must be able to lift 25 lbs. and occasionally move more than 100 lbs.  Must have the physical stamina to lift, stoop, bend crawl, reach, bend, stand and incorporate other movements required in 12-hour shift schedule.  Able to work effectively in a 12 hour shift day (30 minute lunch break and three 10 minute breaks will be given).  Excellent organizational and communication skills.  Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with demonstrated ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks and demands.  Must be able to work autonomously.  Have basic computer skills.  Possess a Team Player mentality.  Ability to read and understand a Production Schedule and Work Order Pick List.  Ability to obtain a forklift license.  3-5 years of experience executing various duties within a warehouse environment - material handling, minor machine operation, and at least 2-3 years driving sit-down forklifts and pallet jacks to provide and supply production lines with needed materials.  Demonstration of a solid safety record  Proficiency in using Warehouse Management systems and reporting to accurately input and capture data that will involve scanning in production and inventory counts.  Must be able to perform minor machine operation duties such as cleaning screens and grinders, performing color changes, etc.  Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with demonstrated ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks and demands.  Strong technical aptitude, creative, analytical and problem-solving skills is a must.  Self-motivated, conscientious, and possess a results-oriented mindset.  Excellent organizational and communication skills. Ability to abide by and execute all safety protocols.  Team-spirit and proactive "can-do" mentality.  Uses sound judgment and has the ability to work efficiently in stressful situations. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES No Supervisory responsibilities. EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE High School diploma or GED; or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. LANGUAGE SKILLS Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence and memos. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization. MATHEMATICAL SKILLS Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. REASONING ABILITY Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations. CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS Ability to obtain forklift certification offered on-site. PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to, use hands to finger, handle, or feel and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand and walk. The employee is required to reach with hands and arms. The employee must frequently lift and/or 25 pounds up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision. WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts and outside weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

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Senior Software Engineer, Big Data Santa Clara Valley (Cupertino) , California , United States Software and Services Summary

Posted: Jul 14, 2021 Role Number: 200263540 Imagine what you could do here. At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming phenomenal products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Are you passionate about developing data platforms at scale? Do you love the idea of solving a new business, technical problem every other day with open source technologies? Are you passionate about big data in cloud? If so, Apple's Global Business Intelligence (GBI) team is looking for highly motivated, detail oriented, technical savvy, ambitious professionals who like to think outside the box! Key Qualifications We re looking for 4+ years of experience in professional programming experience

We are seeking a strong foundation in Computer Science fundamentals such as data structures and algorithms is required

We want you to have experience with Java, scala or Python programming language

We want you to have experience working in Cloud

Experience with Hadoop, Hive, Spark is a plus

Passionate about Big Data technologies

Working knowledge of the full SW development lifecycle

Proven ability to develop and ship high quality software products Description The GBI Big Data Engineering team in responsible for building tools and frameworks that many application depend on to analyze Apple's big data. We use the latest big data technologies. We're looking for someone who is passionate about working in team to build platform which can live up to Apple's high standards. As a part of our team you'll be responsible for designing and developing well engineered creative solutions to tackle our business needs. You'll be working at the framework and application level. We seek a self starter, visionary person with strong leadership capabilities. Ability to communicate effectively, both written and verbal, with technical and non-technical multi-functional teams. You will interact with many other group's internal team to lead and deliver best-in-class products in an exciting fast-paced environment. Dynamic, smart people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. Will you join us in crafting solutions that do not yet exist? Education & Experience BS CS, BS MIS or equivalent Additional Requirements Apple is an Equal Opportunity Employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We also take affirmative action to offer employment and advancement opportunities to all applicants, including minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities. Apple will not discriminate or retaliate against applicants who inquire about, disclose, or discuss their compensation or that of other applicants.

We at Apple we are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to applicants with physical and mental disabilities. Learn more.








Description



Representative, Bilingual Admissions & Outreach

Admin/Pro-Tech Longmont, CO ID: 1203080 Full-Time/Regular Front Range Community College Representative, Bilingual Admissions and Outreach - Boulder County Campus Who We Are We are the largest community college in Colorado, enrolling close to 28,000 credit students annually. We were one of 30 colleges in the initial American Association of Community Colleges Pathways Project , recently selected as a "Most Promising Place to Work" in Diverse Magazine, and profiled as one of six top community colleges for transfer student success in a recent Aspen Institute publication. We have developed a strong strategic plan focused on improving student graduation and transfer rates and have made significant investments in advising and other student support programs. We also have a strong commitment to inclusion, equity, and diversity. We are actively seeking to hire a workforce that matches our student community and will support our Philosophy of Inclusion . We are guided by the philosophy "One College, Many Communities." Campuses share many common values, goals, and practices, but are also given the opportunity and flexibility to develop unique cultures and programs that serve individual communities. In addition, we have a clear vision outlined in its strategic plan. For more information, visit the following: www.frontrange.edu and VISION 2020 . Who You Are As the Bilingual Admissions & Outreach Representative, you will work under the direction of the Director of Admissions and Outreach to project an effective and consistent image of Front Range Community College (FRCC) by educating prospective students and community members about all campuses and programs. You will encourage students to apply and enroll in the college and ensure successful navigation through the admissions and enrollment processes. In this position, you will have a special focus on under-represented populations, specifically the Latinx/Hispanic population, in both high school and community settings. SELECTION PROCESS: Position will remain open until filled with a priority deadline of July 26, 2021. In your application please include a resume and cover letter that specifically addresses how your background and experience align with requirements, qualification and responsibilities of the Bilingual Admissions & Outreach Representative. SALARY: Mid 40's Annually BENEFITS: 2020 - 2021 APT & Faculty Benefits PRIMARY DUTIES: Student Recruitment and Community Outreach: Develop relationships with middle and high schools and community organizations in the Boulder County Campus service area to promote the benefits of FRCC, including educational opportunities, campus resources, campus events, and scholarships.

Identify and connect with community organizations that serve a high number of Latinx students and families; develop an outreach plan to connect with these organizations.

Disseminate college and program informational material to prospective students, continuing students, parents, community members, and secondary education professionals through presentations at on and off campus venues, such as college and community fairs/events, high schools, community agency meetings, and businesses.

Assist students with the enrollment process, including completion of admissions application/required forms and reviews for accuracy, authenticity, and timeliness of information and required documents; assist with advising, class registration, financial aid, and payments.

Provide support for students with limited English skills who want to enroll at FRCC from inquiry through enrollment.

Serve as a liaison between various departments and agencies and the student, clarifying procedures and practices. Refer students to appropriate resources as needed.

Support and facilitate the broader communication of FRCC as a Pathways College related to marketing and promoting the student experience and culture.

Travel frequently to local area schools, agencies, events, and other campuses.

Assist the department with planning and organizing events on campus, including but not limited to counselor workshops/presentations, orientations, open houses, large group visits, and presentations for community organizations and school partners.

Organize and conduct Information Sessions in English and in Spanish.

Collect & enter event data using the departmental monthly reporting mechanisms and Recruit/CRM to document events, inquiries, and enrollment funnel activities.

Prepare reports that document activities and other information as requested.

Assist and participate in collaborative departmental efforts and programming related to student recruitment, onboarding, enrollment, and student success initiatives.

Assist in the ongoing development and implementation of the Campus Outreach Plan to align with the college equity and inclusion work, enhance the diversity of our student body, and achieve enrollment goals.

Serve as a positive cultural broker for the Spanish speaking community.

Provide interpretation for Spanish speaking community who need access to services in other Student Affairs departments, clarify procedures and practices, refer to appropriate internal and external resources as needed.

Support students with limited English proficiency who want to participate in ESL courses or developmental education courses.

Support students and families who may identify as undocumented/DACAmented. Serve as a resource for school, community, and internal partners to understand processes for students who are undocumented.

Serve on campus and community committees related to prospective students, college promotion, and target-population outreach and recruitment. Serve on the college wide Bilingual Committee.

Co-facilitate programing with other Admissions & Outreach staff to best meet the needs of future students, including the pilot program First Generation Leadership Academy. Collaborate with FRCC-Boulder County Campus staff & faculty to coordinate the Latinx, Excellence, Achievement, and Development Scholars (LEADS) program.

Assist with the development of recruiting materials in Spanish such as letters, flyers, brochures. Required Skills

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES : Professional-level proficiency to read, write, and speak English and Spanish: Serve as a positive cultural broker with the Spanish speaking community. Assist with the translation of materials and provide effective interpretation.

Relationship Building & Collaboration: Relate to prospective students of all ages, as well as their family and supporters, to provide them with the highest level of customer service. Collaborate with schools, community organizations, and other FRCC staff to develop strong relationships and programming.

Communication: Speak effectively to clearly communicate to small groups, large groups, or one-on-one about FRCC, enrollment processes, and resources. Create well-written newsletters, correspondence, and resources. Follow-up with future FRCC students after meeting with them one-on-one or at an event.

Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity: Work with individuals and groups with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Be able provide them with resources that will support them as they start their higher education journey and know that they matter.

Event Planning: Collaborate with FRCC with FRCC staff and faculty to develop and execute on campus events. Coordinate with school and community partners to develop programing to support a college-going culture in the Boulder County Campus service area.

Critical Thinking: Ongoing evaluation of outreach efforts and admissions practices. Provide recommendations on innovated changes based on research and promising practices. Required Experience

REQUIRED EDUCATION/TRAINING & WORK EXPERIENCE: Associate's degree and two (2) years' experience in student facing roles related to admissions, recruitment, or a combination of experiences. OR Bachelor's degree and demonstrated experience with enrollment services in admissions, recruitment, and/or retention. AND Experience working with diverse populations and cultures. Professional working proficiency to read, write, and speak bilingual English/Spanish. Strong computer software skills, especially Microsoft Office Suite and the Internet.

Experience with helping to implement events. PREFERRED EDUCATION/TRAINING & WORK EXPERIENCE: Experience working in a community college setting. Welcoming. Respectful. Inclusive. Together, we are FRCC.



Requirements

See job description.




Magnolia, AR (71754)

Today

Variable clouds with showers and scattered thunderstorms. High 84F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms in the evening. Partly cloudy skies overnight. Low near 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
NASA And Big Tech Are Facing Off Over This Rare Gas

Smart investors are preparing to profit from a supply squeeze in an $18-billion market.

So, whats a supply squeeze?

Simple: When the supply of something goes DOWN at the same time demand for it goes UP...

A supply squeeze triggers.

When that happens, you can potentially make more in a short time than you would normally make over a lifetime.

For example, it just happened with lumber.

The coronavirus shut down logging. Supply DOWN.

At the same time, the coronavirus ramped up home remodeling. Demand UP.

In one year, you could have made 400%... more than you would have made in a lifetime.

Even better  if you invested in the smaller lumber companies in this supercyclethe ones whose earnings are tied directly to the price of lumber--you could have made even more.

Early investors in the lumber supply squeeze saw share price increases of over 400% on West Fraser Timber (NYSE:WFG) ... 515% on Canfor (OTCMKTS:CFPZF)

... 677% on Interfor Corporation (OTCMKTS: IFSPF)

But lumber is a renewable resource. We can always plant more trees.

But when it happens with a non-renewable resource prices can go exponential.

So now, early investors are getting in position for a new supply squeeze in a relatively under the radar non-renewable resource -- helium.

In short: A post-coronavirus supply squeeze could trigger helium sooner than we first thought  helium is already a market projected to be worth $18.1 billion by 2025.

Why? 40% of supply has been taken off the market.



Heres one stock that could profit from it

RARE AND GETTING RARER: 40% OF U.S. SUPPLY IS ABOUT TO DISAPPEAR... AND IT'S HEADED TO ZERO

So, what's about to happen?

The global market for this non-renewable resource is set to groweven by conservative estimatesat a CAGR of over 11% by 2025

And, 40% of the US supply has now disappeared, while in the coming weeks, the entire U.S. national reserve will be shut down.

Since the First World War, a federal reserve in Amarillo, Texas, has been stockpiling this strategic gas, providing some 40% of the supply.



Most of that has been used up now. Between 2005 and 2018, the Reserve sold off more than $2 billion in these precious reserves. Now, its mostly been depleted, and in September, the reserve will be shut down, while the existing price ceiling will disappear.

In the past, we were considered a flywheelwhenever there were impacts in the delivery system, we could ramp up and produce  where the shortages were short-term, Samuel Burton, BLM manager for Reserve told the Smithsonian Magazine. Now, as we wind down our program, there really needs to be more [] found, more production created, and more secure delivery systems in place.



Longer term, the supply of this non-renewable resource could be heading toward zero.



In fact, prices have just broken out of their 19-year trading pattern...





Raw helium is now selling for ~$350 per Mcf, while refined helium is selling for a whopping $600-$650 per Mcf, making it a fantastic low volume/high-value commodity.



Thats what happens when the US takes over 2 billion cubic feet off the market.

And could go exponential as this news filters up through the media.

WHY YOU HAVEN'T HEARD ABOUT THIS SUPPLY AND DEMAND SQUEEZE (YET)

While this boring resource is quietly going up the smartest resource investors are piling in before the squeeze.

They may soon be followed by the really big money...

Including resource ETF firms like BlackRock and Vanguard... with $9T and $7T in assets under management.

So, right now, there's a small window of opportunity to get in... ahead of the big money.

When this big money floods in, you can expect the price of this resource to go much higher...

With the price of small stocks like this one with the potential to go up substantially.

Investors haven't heard about it yet because it doesn't affect their daily lives...

But soon they will because it could affect everything from computers to MRIs...

To Google, Facebook, Amazon, Netflix and more.

SUPPLY SQUEEZE 2021:

Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Netflix could soon be locked in a battle for this resource because existing mines are rare.

There are only 14 refineries in the entire world, with 7 in the United States.

But one little known stock is building up a portfolio of some of the most favorable land where this non-renewable resource can be extracted in North America.

In fact, Beacon Securities Limited recently initiated coverage on this tiny stock...

And said it could deliver well-level payouts of only a few months and IRRs of 122%-635%. Returns like these would rival (or beat) most O&G plays in Canada and the U.S and that doesnt even factor in that the helium supply squeeze is likely just beginning.

Smart investors will want to be in before the story of this non-renewable resource -- helium -- is all over the news.

Few people know anything about this $18.1 billion helium market...

But Helium is critical to our daily lives because it has the lowest melting point of all the elements (-272.2 C)...

Which makes it the go-to commodity when it comes to cooling.

There is no substitute.

Liquid helium is used for cooling everything from magnets in MRI machines and ventilator machines to supercomputers and data centers.

About 30% of the worlds helium supply goes into MRI scanners...

While another 20% of the worlds helium supply goes into the manufacture of hard disks and semiconductors.

With Big Tech companies such as Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Netflix being heavy users of helium in their massive data centers, we may soon see them all scramble to secure it.

If that happens... the earliest investors will be rewarded with more gains in a short time...

More gains than you would normally make in a lifetime.

THE #1 STOCK TO PLAY THE 40% DROP IN THIS NON-RENEWABLE RESOURCE

Canadian junior explorer Avanti Energy Inc. (TSX:AVN.V; US OTC:ARGYF) is in a prime position to benefit from the emerging helium rush.

It has a team with a proven exploration and discovery track record, working to discover key tracts of Canadas Montney (for $8 billion oil giant Encana), one of the richest natural gas deposits in the world. Now, its snapping up prime new helium territory ahead of what might be the biggest rush in history.

Avanti have made four key license acquisitions--two in Alberta and two in Montana (the Montana acquisitions are not closed yet, but the Company is confident they should close soon).

On June 14th, Avanti announced its biggest play yet, an intention to acquire the helium license rights a massive ~50,000 acres of highly prospective helium land in Montana. If completed, that will bring its total prospective helium holdings to some 75,000 acres in North America.

Remember, these are the same guys who discovered the Montney.



So why is Beacon Securities Limited so bullish on this stock? Lets try to read between the lines

REASON #1: We are running out of helium. The US government has now sold off 2 billion cubic feet of the helium it had in reserve. That reserve was 40% of supply. And by September, by law, it has to begin disposal of all helium assets and operations, including the helium storage reservoir and pipeline system.

Canaccord Genuity Capital Market says the helium market is chronically undersupplied.



Cormack Securities says: The current landscape for new entrants into this emerging industry has never been better. Currently there is a global helium supply shortage that is being multiplied by the growing demand, which has driven renewed interest into securing reliable sources. This growing demand in part is responsible for the US Federal Helium Reserve depleting its resources.



Eight Capital says: Prices have been anywhere from $200 to $400/MCF. As a frame of reference, natural gas trades at about $3/MCF. Base case, we could see helium demand outpace supply at least until 2025.

REASON #2: Avanti is acquiring the helium rights to land in some of the best helium prospecting areas in North America, in Alberta and Montana, both ground zero for helium.

In March, Avanti acquired the license for over 6,000 acres from the Government of Alberta in highly prospective helium territory, and its snowballed from there.



Now, Avanti boasts the Knappen and Aden projects in Alberta and has made its even bigger strategic move on Montana.



Knappen is ~6,000 acres of nitrogen-rich helium in multiple zones. Gas analysis shows helium concentrations up to 2.18% and nitrogen up to ~98%. It also shows the presence of several deep structural high features that are ideal for trapping helium. Aden is a ~2,500-acre play with a closed structural high, also ideal for trapping helium, and multiple shows of up to 2%. Its also the first asset to advance into the exploration phase and drilling is expected by the end of this year already.

And lets not forget that Avanti Energy Inc. (TSX:AVN.V; US OTC:ARGYF) is led by the same team that identified, modeled and developed the infamous Montney play for $8 billion oil giant Encana (now Ovintiv Inc  NYSE: OVV). Beacons guidance aptly notes that the Montney project has achieved nearly 300,000 boe/d in production over the past 15 years, so it seems like this team knows how to explore and discover.

Bet the jockey, not the horse And perhaps double down when you learn that the jockey has a proven track record of discovering gargantuan oil/gas assets for massive conglomerates, and even once more when you learn that the jockey has been buying a considerable amount of stock at levels higher than where the share price sits as I write this piece

Perhaps the early innings of this new helium exploration gig reminds Bakker and his team of their prior successes?

Is The Montney of Helium About to be Discovered in Montana?





In April, Avanti moved to acquire the license to a 12,000-acre land package in Montana that is on-trend with an active, nitrogen-rich helium drilling area in Saskatchewan. Although the acquisition is not closed yet, it has been announced, and the collection of 2D and 3D seismic shows several structures prospective for helium trapping, while multiple gas analyses show notable concentrations of helium, suggesting upward migration of helium and good potential for deeper helium-rich zones. (In the 1970s, the USGS drilled high-grade helium wells nearby, yielding commercially viable helium at todays prices.)



And the biggest move yet  on June 14th, Avanti announced its intention to capture ~50,000 more acres of licenses in Montana.



The highlights from this highly prospective helium property are enough to boost investor confidence many times over. They include:

Several closed structural highs, ideal for the trapping of helium, that exhibit 70m to 170m of relief.

Surrounding wells showing helium in multiple Devonian and Cambrian targets with helium percentages of up to 2%. (1.5% to 2.2% in the Cambrian and 0.7% to 1.7% in the Devonian).

Helium shows associated with favorably high nitrogen percentages of up to 96%.

Area well logs and core analyses indicating excellent reservoir quality in Devonian and Cambrian target intervals.

The next moves that could boost this stock will be the finalization of due diligence on this 50,000 acres, which is expected to be done next month, and then the start of the drilling campaign before the end of this year.



REASON #3: You cant invest in helium directly. Most of these companies are private and super profitable so their executives are collecting multi-millions in profits every year. There are very few public companies for investors to get in on. That makes Avanti a rare opportunity to potentially get in on the ground floor of the next big supply squeeze for a gas that is one of the most critical drivers of the global economy.

Thats why Beacon Securities Limited has set an initial price target of $3.80 per share on Avanti Energy Inc. (TSX:AVN.V; US OTC:ARGYF), noting: We believe critical mass has been achieved and Avanti now has a key asset on which its world-class technical team can explore. We maintain our $3.80 price target and our Spec Buy rating.



And in their report Beacon Securities Limited indicates that Avanti may deliver well-level payouts of only a few months and a IRR of 122-635% on its land packages; and Beacon further opines that Returns like these would rival (or beat) most oil and gas plays in Canada and the US.

Everythings lined up here:

A supply squeeze is coming SOON, and September marks the end of the massively important US federal helium reserve in Texas.



Prices just broke out of a 19-year trading pattern but will almost certainly go higher. Small stocks like Avanti could go up even more.



Beacon Securities Limited has placed its initial bet on Avanti and sees upside to $3.80, but we think it could potentially go higher because longer-term this resource is non-renewable... and currently appears headed toward zero supply.

Plus, Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Netflix may need to battle over it.



By: Richard Sanderson

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FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS. This publication contains forward-looking information which is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements in this publication include that prices for helium will significantly increase due to global demand and use in a wide array of industries (including key technology sectors) and that helium will retain its value in future due to the demand increases and overall shortage of supply; that Avanti can pursue exploration of the recently acquired licenses of property in Alberta; that Avantis licenses in respect of the Alberta property can achieve drilling and mining success for helium; that Avanti will be able to acquire the rights to helium on the 12,000 acres of land in Montana pursuant to its recent letter of intent announced on April 16, 2021, and the helium rights to the ~50,000 acres of land in Montana pursuant to its recent letter of intent announced on June 14, 2021; that the Avanti team will be able to close on the aforementioned Montana helium license acquisitions; that the Avanti team will be able to develop and implement helium exploration models, including their own proprietary models, that may result in successful exploration and development efforts; that historical geological information and estimations will prove to be accurate or at least very indicative of helium; that high helium content targets exist in the Alberta and both Montana projects; and that Avanti will be able to carry out its business plans, including timing for drilling and exploration. These forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Risks that could change or prevent these statements from coming to fruition include that demand for helium is not as great as expected; that alternative commodities or compounds are used in applications which currently use helium, thus reducing the need for helium in the future; that the Company may not fulfill the requirements under its Alberta licenses for various reasons or otherwise cannot pursue exploration on the project as planned or at all; that the Company may not be able to acquire the helium rights to the Montana lands as contemplated in the letter of intent or at all; that the Avanti team may be unable to develop any helium exploration models, including proprietary models, which allow successful exploration efforts on any of the Companys current or future projects; that Avanti may not be able to finance its intended drilling programs to explore for helium or may otherwise not raise sufficient funds to carry out its business plans; that geological interpretations and technological results based on current data may change with more detailed information, analysis or testing; and that despite promise, there may be no commercially viable helium or other resources on any of Avantis properties. The forward-looking information contained herein is given as of the date hereof and we assume no responsibility to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law.

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Mauritius has opened its borders to international travellers, both vaccinated and non-vaccinated, from today, 15 July 2021.

Phase 1 of reopening of the borders for the Indian Ocean Island, which runs from today until 30 September 2021, allows vaccinated guests to stay in one of 14 chosen resort bubbles.

Holidaymakers will be able to enjoy facilities within their chosen hotel including the swimming pool and beach. If guests stay for 14 days and have negative PCR tests during their stay in the resort, they will then be able to leave the hotel and travel around the island freely for the rest of their stay, exploring the islands many attractions. However, for shorter stays, they may leave the resort earlier and travel back home.

The approved Covid-19 safe resorts are available on: www.mauritiusnow.com

The decision to reopen Mauritius borders, announced in June, came following the successful acceleration of the countrys vaccination programme. International tourism represents a large amount of the island nations GDP and the Mauritian government took the decision in January to include tourism workers and hotel staff as frontline workers to ensure visitors will be welcomed into a safe and secure environment in Mauritius.

Hon. Steven Obeegadoo, Deputy Prime Minister of Mauritius and Minister of Tourism, said:

Mauritius is delighted to be welcoming international visitors into our safe and secure environment on the island. We are in a unique position to be able to allow international visitors, both vaccinated and non-vaccinated, to our resort bubbles and quarantine hotels before allowing guests to experience the islands attractions. The safety and security of Mauritian citizens, residents, and those visiting the island is paramount and we are grateful to those who have cooperated throughout the pandemic to make this possible. The acceleration of our vaccination programme has enabled us to partially reopen our borders and we look forward to fully opening our borders in October.

Travellers to Mauritius must undergo a PCR test between five and seven days before departure and a negative result is required to enter the island. Vaccinated travellers must also have a PCR test on arrival at the airport in Mauritius and on day 7 and 14 of their resort holiday, as applicable.

Air Mauritius, Emirates and other global airlines will add additional flight capacity from 15 July 2021 which will increase in the lead up to the full reopening of 1 October 2021.

Phase 2 of the reopening of the borders, which takes place on 1 October 2021, will vaccinated travellers to enter Mauritius without restrictions upon presentation of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before departure.

International visitors can book their resort holidays either via tour operators or directly with the hotels. Other hotels have been confirmed as full quarantine hotels which will only be open to unvaccinated travellers, when returning to Mauritius.

For full details of entry requirements and safety protocols, visit www.mauritiusnow.com
Pursuant to General Notice No 1068 of 2021, members of the Public are hereby being informed that for the purpose of preventing the spread of Covid-19 in Mauritius, all persons resident of the village of Bois Cheri shall remain indoor until 04 August 2021 at 6a.m.

2. Moreover, persons resident in the area specified above shall, at no time, leave that area, and persons not resident in the area specified above shall, at no time enter that area.

3. However, paragraph 2 shall not apply to the following persons or class of persons who have to leave, or enter, the area specified above:

(a) a person who has to avail himself, or to any other member of his family, of medical treatment, or to

procure medicine, or any other item essential for his or his familys subsistence or livelihood;

(b) a person who is authorised to be outdoor strictly on allocated days or authorised to carry out specific activities;

(c) employees of the Disciplined Force while on official duty;

(d) a Judge or Magistrate, or an officer of the Judiciary, designated by the Chief Justice;

(e) a medical practitioner for the purpose of attending a hospital or private health institution, or for the purpose of domiciliary visits;

(f) a pharmacist for the purpose of attending his pharmacy;

(g) a person who has to avail his pet of veterinary treatment;

(h) a person required to attend a Court by virtue of a summons issued by the Court;

(i) a person who is issued with a permit by the Commissioner of Police under section 3(2) of the Quarantine Act 2020.

Members of the Public are hereby informed that the Police will exercise strict control with regards to persons entering and exiting the re-defined Red Zone. Residents of the above mentioned area shall at no time travel outside this area and non-residents shall at no time enter this area except frontliners of the essential services.

Penalty

Unauthorised persons found outdoor shall commit an offence under the Quarantine Act 2020 and shall, on conviction be liable to a fine not exceeding 500, 000 rupees and to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years.
European police may also turn a blind eye to weed if it is in small quantities and clearly stated that it is for personal use. If you carry cannabis in more significant amounts, it may seem like you will sell it, and such commercial intent is to be avoided. If you buy cannabis to share with a group of people in Europe, you should quickly divide it into smaller quantities before the police search.
We thank God that this terrible pandemic has continued to ease, and that people in our communities have been able to begin reclaiming a sense of normalcy in their lives, Allentown Bishop Alfred Schlert said. We also thank God that Catholics can once again get back to their normal and regular attendance at Mass.
On the same day he posted that image, Kauffman shared a video of the Tree of Life shooting, a post supporting the shooter, references to hate crimes and a photo of white supremacist and antisemitic stickers he pasted onto a display case at the Chabad Lubavitch Jewish Center in Ocean City, Maryland, the news release states.
Those people being paid tipped minimum wage are on the mind of Sen. Christine Tartaglione, D-Philadelphia, who has filed bills to make changes. But while there is broad support for raising the tipped minimum wage  often paid to restaurant servers and other food service industry employees  the question is by how much, and should there even be a separate tipped wage in the first place?
Mike Hatala, owner of the 12 Penny Saloon Gay Campground on Route 502, contends the Jewish Community Center of Scranton asked him to cover a sign at the entrance of his campground out of homophobia  an accusation Dan Cardonick, the executive director of the Jewish Community Center, flatly denied. Both the 12 Penny Saloon Gay Campground and JCC Camp Daleville use the same 100-plus-acre location and facilities, with the Jewish camp operating until 5:30 p.m. on weekdays, and the gay campground operating from 6 p.m. on Fridays until 6 p.m. on Sundays.
I hope that this redistricting process, for both Congress and the state Legislature, wont be as one-sided as last time. In 2011, there was a Republican governor and Republican Legislature. Is it any surprise that the congressional map they rushed into law was thrown out by the state Supreme Court in 2018 as being illegally gerrymandered?
Race was, and still is, a technological tool used by the ruling class to divide the working class. I believe it is helpful to think of race more like a gear in a machine than a feeling of superiority. This is one way in which it is systemic. It is part of the system, part of the machinery.
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Sayre, PA (18840)

Today

Partly cloudy in the morning followed by scattered thunderstorms in the afternoon. High 83F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Clear to partly cloudy. Low 62F. Winds light and variable.
Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
International

Two Pakistan security personnel killed in IED blast

ISLAMABAD, JUL 15 (IANS) | Publish Date: 7/15/2021 12:54:42 PM IST

Two Pakistani security personnel were killed during an improvised explosive device explosion in Balochistan province, an army statement said on Thursday.

The Army launched a search operation following the incident to apprehend the perpetrators, the militarys media wing Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in the statement.

Such cowardly acts by inimical elements, backed by hostile intelligence agencies cannot sabotage the hard-earned peace and prosperity in Balochistan, xinhua news agency quoted the statement as saying.

A spike in terrorist incidents targeting security forces has recently been witnessed in the country.

On Tuesday, two security personnel including an officer, and three terrorists were killed in a clash in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

On June 25, the ISPR said that five soldiers from paramilitary troops were killed after terrorists targeted a patrol party in Balochistans Sibi district.
Julie Leven and her husband Des brought their camper up to visit their son in northern New South Wales, Australia, just before Christmas last year. They noticed masses of white dots moving over the black road surface as they drove back to their house in Gilgandra, some 430 kilometers northwest of Sydney, at night. They immediately discovered the dots were mice.



When the Levens arrived at their home, they saw a scene of rodent carnage. Mice had infested their house in such large quantities that it had become uninhabitable.

The critters had gnawed their way into the pantry and destroyed everything they could reach. Their feces and foul urine were strewn across the soft furnishings and beds from one end of the house to the other. The rats had even eaten the insulation surrounding the engine wire in two tractors, destroying the hay bundles that had been collected.

Invasive Outbreak

In Australia, outbreaks of this invasive species are not uncommon. "We have data dating back to the 1900s essentially demonstrating that there are mouse plagues somewhere in Australia every four or five years, and within any given location, it might be every seven or ten years," says Peter Brown, an ecologist at CSIRO in Canberra who studies vertebrate pests. But, on the other hand, farmers tell Brown that this is the greatest mouse epidemic they've ever seen.

Related Article: Woman Wakes Up to a Mouse Gnawing Her Eyeballs as Australian Mouse Plague Worsens



Rainfall

The major cause is considered an excess of food due to a wet and rainy summer. Following many years of severe drought, which culminated in the terrible bushfires of 2019-2020, eastern Australia had abundant rainfall during much of 2020, notably in agricultural regions. Mice are opportunistic feeders who consume practically everything, but cereal crops offer the most appealing bounty.

According to Brown, one of the most important predictors of mouse populations is rainfall. "Our models rely on rainfall as a proxy for food availability because if it's a good year for producing crops, it's a good year for all sorts of other things that mice eat," he adds.

Population

Population surveys from September to November 2020-springtime in the Southern Hemisphere-showed that mouse activity was quickly increasing. Trapping-in particular, inspecting captured female mice for scars from past pregnancies, which indicate fecundity-and mouse chew cards, which are tiny squares of paper soaked in canola oil that researchers distribute for mice to gnaw on-are used to track this. The higher the mouse activity at a certain place, the more chewing there is when the cards are gathered.

"We were keeping an eye out for what was going on in different regions in spring and summer last year, and northern and western New South Wales was starting to emerge as a bit of a hot zone of activity," Brown says.

Agricultural Damages

Throughout the summer, mouse populations exploded, causing significant agricultural damage that the state government pledged AU$150 million to assist farmers in dealing with the assault.

Mouse Plague

The house mouse (Mus musculus) has arrived in Australia with British colonists in the late 1700s, swiftly establishing itself in local ecosystems and posing a threat to native species. "In Australia, competition with introduced rodents is one of the risks to native rodents," says Emily Roycroft, an evolutionary biologist at the Australian National University in Canberra. "It's generally pretty difficult for the ecosystem to maintain more than one species that are comparable in that manner when creatures consume similar foods and have similar body sizes," Roycroft adds.

Also Read: Scientist Claims That Wasps Aren't Just Pointless Creatures

For the most recent updates about the environment and the animal kingdom, don't forget to follow Nature World News!
Extreme heat, high winds and uncommonly dry conditions are combining together to bring about what may be developing to be another record wildfire season in California.

Wildfire in Doyle

Firefighters making effort to stop the Beckwourth Complex Fire in Doyle, California, combated against flames, smoky conditions and gusty winds that are approaching at a high pace. As the fire came nearer, it forced the firefighters to retreat, so they could form another group because the fire was severe.

Doyle is a small town containing about 700 residents and it is located in Northern California close to the border with Nevada, around 45 miles northwest of Reno, Nevada. An operations station chief with the U.S. Forest Service, Jake Cagle, said: "We're seeing unusual fire runs, things that we weren't trained to witness"

A resident of Doyle, Tom Pourchot, had made plans to remain at home, but eventually evacuated quickly when he noticed the firefighters retreating over the weekend.

Also Read: Human-Induced Climate Change to Blame for the Increasing Forest Fire in the US

High Temperatures

Pourchot said the sound over the hill was like an incoming cargo train, adding that the view of the firefighters backtracking made him develop a second thought about his plans to stay put. He said the experience was terrifying. He said: "When you sight the firemen running like that, probably the best time to go ahead and leave."

As per Inciweb, the early-season fire has progressed to just below 100,000 acres burned. The conditions of the fire across majority of the state of California are unusual for this time of year.

Doyle hasn't experienced high temperatures below 90 degrees in just a day since the 25th of June, and the high records have reached its peak in the triple digits in recent days. For this time of year in Doyle, the average high temperature is 88 degrees.

A fire behavior analyst with the U.S. Forest Service, Diondray Wiley said: "Today, our fuels are six to seven weeks parched than they should normally be, implying we are looking at the dryness we'd witness in mid- to late-August."

Firefighters' Efforts

Temperatures that are more than 100 degrees, together with extreme and unusual drought conditions all over much of the West and Southwest, have made yards and forests become tinderboxes.

Residents who have already been compelled to relocate are very grateful for the efforts firefighters are making.

Reno, Nevada, resident Adrian Mendoza told AccuWeather National Reporter Bill Wadell: "I really thank them so much because of everything they are doing is for us. They are putting their lives at risk for all of us, our families, our kids, their own families."

With conditions as terrible as this, residents know particularly what firefighters are laying on the line when they get ready for work.

Related Article: Wildfires Are a Real but Undisclosed Risk for Millions of Areas and Homes

For more news, updates about wildfires and similar topics don't forget to follow Nature World News!
In this aerial image, A fire burns in a section of the Amazon rain forest on August 25, 2019 in the Candeias do Jamari region near Porto Velho, Brazil. According to INPE, Brazil's National Institute of Space Research, the number of fires detected by satellite in the Amazon region this month is the highest since 2010. (Photo : Photo by Victor Moriyama/Getty Images)

For the first time, scientists have proven that the Amazon rainforest is releasing more carbon dioxide than it can absorb. According to research, annual emissions total one billion tonnes of carbon dioxide.

The massive forest had previously served as a carbon sink, absorbing the emissions that have accelerated the global catastrophe, but is now contributing to its worsening, according to experts.

The majority of the emissions come from fires, many of which are intentionally set to clear land for cattle and soy cultivation. However, even without fires, the south-eastern Amazon has become a source of CO2 rather than a sink due to rising temperatures and droughts.

Absorbing Carbon

Since 1960, growing trees and plants have absorbed almost a quarter of all fossil fuel emissions, with the Amazon playing a key role as the world's biggest tropical forest. So losing Amazon's ability to collect CO2 is a harsh reminder that reducing fossil-fuel emissions is more important than ever.

Over the previous decade, tiny planes were employed to measure CO2 levels up to 4,500 meters above the jungle, revealing how the whole Amazon is changing. However, previous research that suggested the Amazon was becoming a CO2 source relied on satellite data, which may be hindered by cloud cover or ground tree surveys, which can only cover a small portion of the enormous region.

According to the scientists, the fact that section of the Amazon was spewing carbon even when there were no fires was particularly concerning. They believe it is the outcome of each year's deforestation and fires, leaving nearby woods more vulnerable the following year.

In addition, because trees provide a large portion of the region's rainfall, fewer trees mean more severe droughts and heat waves, as well as more tree deaths and fires.

Related Article: Too Late? Amazon Greenhouse Study Shows Worsening Climate Conditions Despite Initiatives





Deforestations

Brazil's president, Jair Bolsonaro, has been chastised for promoting greater deforestation, which has reached a 12-year high while fires have reached their worst level since 2007.

"The first terrible news is that forest fire creates about three times more CO2 than the forest absorbs," said Luciana Gatti of Brazil's National Institute for Space Research, who led the study. The second bad news is that areas with 30% or more deforestation have carbon emissions that are ten times greater than those with less than 20% deforestation."

"We have a really negative loop that makes the forest more prone to uncontrolled fires," she added, explaining that fewer trees meant less rain and greater temperatures, making the dry season even worse for the remaining forest.

Trade and Exports

Brazil exports a large amount of Amazonian wood, cattle, and soy. "To rescue the Amazon, we need a worldwide agreement," Gatti added. However, some European countries have stated that they will oppose a trade agreement between the EU and Brazil and other countries unless Bolsonaro promises to do more to combat Amazon deforestation.

Carbon Hotspot

From 2010 to 2018, 600 vertical profiles of CO2 and carbon monoxide, generated by fires, were taken at four locations in the Brazilian Amazon and published in the journal Nature. As a result, it was discovered that fires created 1.5 billion tonnes of CO2 per year, whereas forest growth removed 0.5 billion tonnes. The 1 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is equal to Japan's yearly emissions, making it the world's fifth-largest polluter.

Prof Simon Lewis of University College London remarked, "This is a very outstanding research." "It's an incredible achievement to fly every two weeks and maintain consistent laboratory readings for nine years."

"What scientists have feared would happen is a positive feedback, in which deforestation and climate change cause a release of carbon from the remaining forest, reinforcing more heat and carbon loss," he added

"We now have solid proof that this is taking place. The sink-to-source narrative in the south-east Amazon is just another harsh warning that climate consequences are speeding up."

Ratio

The airborne research campaign, according to Colorado State University professor Scott Denning, was "heroic." "The forest in the south-east is no longer expanding at a higher rate than it is dying. This is bad news: having the world's most prolific carbon absorber go from a sink to a source implies we'll have to phase out fossil fuels far quicker than we anticipated."

According to a satellite study published in April, the Brazilian Amazon has emitted roughly 20% more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than it has absorbed over the last decade. Tropical forests are absorbing less CO2 than they were 30 years ago, according to a study published in 2020 that followed 300,000 trees for 30 years. "They're complementary studies using fundamentally different techniques that arrive at quite similar conclusions," Denning explained.

"Imagine if we could prevent forest fires in the Amazon - it might serve as a carbon sink," Gatti added. "However, we are doing exactly the reverse - we are hastening climate change."

Gains and Loss

"The saddest thing is that we don't make judgments based on science," she added. "People believe that turning more land to agriculture would increase production, but the detrimental impact on rain actually reduces productivity."

According to research published on Friday, the soy sector in Brazil loses $3.5 billion per year due to the initial rise in severe heat that follows forest loss.

Also Read: Climate Tipping Points Inevitably Leads to Dire Environmental Consequences

For the recent climate and weather updates, don't forget to follow Nature World News!
On Saturday, a shark cruelly attacked a man to death after he walked into the sea off a Brazilian beach to pee while he was drunk.

How it Happened

51-year-old Marcelo Rocha Santos was having some drinks together with his friend at the Piedade Beach in the Brazilian city of Jaboatao dos Guararapes before the unfortunate incident happened, Eminetra.co.nz reported.

It was reported that the victim walked into the sea at about 2 p.m. ET when the shark rushed out of the water and mauled him. An eyewitness, Edriano Gomez, revealed to the outlet that at the time Santos got into the water, the weather was not bright but cloudy and the sea had started to storm, a type of weather that rejuvenates shark activity.

Gomez said to Eminetra.co.nz: "It was my friend who was at sea with the man that was mauled. All of a sudden, he noticed the victim suffering. There was so much blood in the water."

The second eyewitness, Ademir Sebastiao da Silva, said Santos and his friend went into the sea to urinate since the vicinity had no toilet. He told the outlet he was close to him with water up to his waist.

Also Read: Stunning Beach in Brazil Has Highest Rate of Shark Attacks in the World

Victim's Mutilated Remains Wahes Ashore

The mutilated remnants of the victim washed ashore following the attack and photos captured by observers revealed the animal had cut off one of his arms and chopped off a big chunk of flesh out of his lower limb.

The body of the victim, with no vital signs, was conveyed to a hospital in the city of Recife close to where the incident happened, where the doctors confirmed he was dead, as per the publication.

Not less than 12 shark attacks have taken place in the past at the same location on the beach where Santos passed on. A lifeguard on duty during the time of the attack was not able to rescue the victim, News-Logics.com reported.

Bull Shark Vs. Tiger Shark

While there were so many caution signs at the beach warning people not to go into the water, it was reported that the lifeguards did not tell the men to leave the water because they went only as deep as the waist.

Although the type of shark that mauled the man wasn't definite, experts have a suspicion it could be either a bull shark or a tiger shark, the outlet reported.

Shark, any of the diverse species of cartilaginous fishes that are predators and make up the order Selachii and class Chondrichthyes.

Sharks vary from other elasmobranchs, however, and look like normal fishes, in the fusiform shape of their body and in the position of their gill clefts on every side of the head. Though there are extraordinary, sharks generally possess tough skin that is dull gray in colour and toothlike scales normally roughens it.

Related Article: Rising Number of Shark Attacks in Australia Reveals A Darker Story

For more news, updates about shark attacks and similar topics don't forget to follow Nature World News!
Over a thousand fake medical laboratory test reports were allegedly prepared by Michael Mandaza of Euro-Pacific 24 Hour Private Hospital in Mabvuku between 2017 and 2021 netting him US$40 to $80 a test although no work was done except creative writing on a computer and the use of a rubber stamp for a non-existent laboratory.

This followed complaints by more than 200 of his patients who suspected they were given fake medical results and approached the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission on June 14.

Exactly one month later, after police and ZACC investigations, Mandaza yesterday appeared in court on fraud charges. He was not asked to plead to the charges when he appeared before magistrate Mr Dennis Mangosi, who remanded him in custody to today to hear his bail application.

And in his remand hearing, the State led by Mr Ephraim Zinyandu outlined the alleged scam.

Mandaza is alleged to have been collecting blood, sputum and other samples for laboratory tests and charging the patients a test fee.

He then allegedly prepared reports on a computer for the Sampling Diagnostic Laboratory which does not appear to exist, using the name of Dr Jasper Chimedza, who is Secretary of Health and Child Welfare, and claiming someone called Martin Jones prepared the results and someone called Michael Chigwada reviewed them.

Police investigations could not find any Sampling Diagnostic Laboratory. No such laboratory is registered with the Medical Laboratory and Clinical Scientists Council of Zimbabwe and the Health Professional Authority of Zimbabwe.

There is no such entity at 13 Robson Manyika Avenue, the address on its paperwork. Mr Jones and Mr Chigwada are not registered or listed as scientific staff anywhere.

But a ZACC raid on Monday on Mandaza hospital at Kamunhu Shopping Centre in Mabvuku and his home in nearby Zimre Park in Ruwa did find patient files, a date stamp of Sampling Diagnostic Laboratory and computers allegedly used in preparing results.

They had to in the end break into his personal locker to recover around 1 000 files dating back to 2017.

The investigation started when renal patient Ivy Chaitezvi (67), liver patient Simbisai Chisue and 200 others, suspected their test results were not proper, lodged their complaint with ZACC. Herald


ANC chair Gwede Mantashe is at the receiving end of criticism for his claim that the ongoing looting of businesses has nothing to do with demands to release former president Jacob Zuma, but has become a get-rich-quick scheme by criminal elements.

In an interview with Newzroom Afrika about the government's response to the unrest, Mantashe said: I can assure you this is not anything to do with Zuma. It is everything to do with thugs who want to get rich quick and steal as much as they can, as soon as possible.

Mantashe said it will take a long time to rebuild the economic infrastructure that has been destroyed, and the working class and the poor will be affected most.

The government is under pressure to provide answers about its efforts to quell the tensions in parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, as infrastructure is destroyed and businesses looted in violent protests that started at the weekend.

The army is not the solution, Ramaphosa must engage the people  #FeesMustFall activist Bonginkosi Khanyile

President Cyril Ramaphosa must go on the ground and engage masses, listen to their grievances and commit to solutions, say Fees Must Fall activist ...

The demonstrations were fuelled by the arrest of former president Jacob Zuma who is serving a 15-month sentence at the Estcourt prison. The Constitutional Court found him guilty of contempt of court after he failed to appear before the state capture inquiry.

Some accused Mantashe of dodging accountability while others denied the scores of people looting supermarkets are criminal elements.

Defence minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula on Wednesday said she asked President Cyril Ramaphosa to deploy another 25,000 soldiers to quell tensions in areas affected by the looting and violence in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.

Addressing MPs, Mapisa-Nqakula said the president wasn't satisfied with the initial deployment of 2,500 soldiers.

He said he is unhappy with those numbers and that we should not worry about the cost, but we should be worried about the rampant looting and also about the lives of South Africans who are being killed, said the minister.




The battle to ensure Chief Justice Luke Malaba stays in office intensified yesterday, with top government officials describing the ongoing Constitutional Court (ConCourt) challenge as lawfare.

ConCourt judges started hearing an application by Zanu PF activist Marx Mupungu, who wants a May High Court ruling that said Malaba ceased to be Chief Justice after reaching the previous retirement threshold of 70 years reversed.

Information secretary Ndavaningi Mangwana offered a running commentary on Twitter of the hearing that was broadcast live on ZBC-TV and streamed live on the State broadcasters social media platforms.

Mangwana tweeted: I am keenly following the Malaba case at the ConCourt. There is no doubt that this country now faces a lawfare. Those fighting this country have taken their battle to the Judiciary arena.

Presidential spokesperson George Charamba responded to the tweet and declared that those behind the alleged lawfare would not win.

Lawfare describes the use of law as a weapon of war. Mangwana was challenged by his followers to explain if he meant that Zimbabweans that were not happy with the decisions of the Executive had no right to approach the courts.

Yes, they have the right to approach the courts for recourse, he responded. But to try to paralyse the Judiciary so as to create a so-called constitutional crisis is both cynical and mischievous.

True to Charambas vow, the ConCourt dismissed the application by Zimbabwe Lawyers of Human Rights NGO Forum executive director Musa Kika to have judges recuse themselves from the matter.

The ConCourt judges, led by Deputy Chief Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza, did not give reasons for the dismissal.

Advocate Thembinkosi Magwaliba, who was representing the judges after they were cited as respondents, said reasons would be given later in the full judgment.

Following the dismissal of Kikas application, Mupungus case in which he is seeking non-confirmation of the High Court ruling, which is against Malabas extended tenure, will now be heard on Friday.

Kika had cited 18 judges in his latest application seeking their recusal from presiding over the matter.

The same judges were also cited as respondents in his first application in which he challenged the extension of Malabas tenure.

In his application, Kika argued that the High Court ruling handed down on May 15, 2021 by a three-member panel affected the same judges who were set to make a determination on Mupungus application at the ConCourt.

Kika, represented by lawyer Eric Matinenga, filed his application a day before Mupungus case was set to be heard.

But Malabas lawyer, Magwaliba, argued that Kika cited all the judges of the ConCourt in bad faith to disable the court and pleaded with the court to dismiss the application. Newsday
CIVIC society organisations (CSOs) yesterday said they were unfazed by President Emmerson Mnangagwas threats to deregister them over allegations that they are pursuing a regime change agenda.

On Wednesday, while addressing a Zanu PF politburo meeting, Mnangagwa issued a stern warning to non-governmental organisations (NGOs) accusing them of meddling in the countrys politics.

He said his government would not hesitate to deregister NGOs threatening the sovereignty of the country.

Information ministry secretary Ndavaningi Mangwana took to Twitter to say: As the election season unfolds, we are observing a notable number of NGOs diverting from their operational mandates to delve into political matters, that amounts to interference in the internal affairs of our sovereign country.

But yesterday, the NGOs said they were unmoved by Mnangagwas threats and would continue to discharge their duties without fear.

Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition spokesperson Marvellous Khumalo said CSOs would remain guided by the laws of the country.

What we will do as CSOs is that we will be guided by the laws of the country, Khumalo said.

You would recall that we wrote to Harare provincial development co-ordinator Tafadzwa Muguti requesting that he furnishes us with the pieces of legislation that support his directives because as CSOs, we will be comfortable to do things that are within the confines of the law.

We dont want to go outside the provisions of the Constitution and other pieces of legislation.

He added: We are not taking it as tough times ahead so far. What these people are saying at this point in time are just threats. We are not inviting sideshows as of now because politicians will always try to possibly distract us from our mandate and scope of work. We will not be drawn in.

Khumalo said while NGOs appreciated that the statement by Mnangagwa was made while addressing a Zanu PF politburo meeting, they were also a live to the fact that the politburo was not a government structure.

We wait for further engagements through normal government procedures and we are not worried with what political parties say behind closed doors. We will be guided by the law, he said.

Political analyst Ashton Bumhira said: The only way out of this situation is national dialogue to resolve the political and economic crisis affecting the country.

In Zimbabwe, the social contract is broken and the current government is seeing shadows and is very paranoid. Government is suffering from a deficit of legitimacy from the 2018 disputed elections and from failing to deliver on electoral processes.

Heal Zimbabwe Trust programmes manager Edknowledge Mandikwaza said NGOs were a critical development partner that complemented government, hence restricting their operations destroyed creativity in addressing the socio-economic challenges facing the country.

Instead of restricting the civic space, government must appreciate that most social services that it cant provide are being provided by CSOs that it is intending to criminalise, Mandikwaza said.

Threats against NGOs started last month when Mnangagwas spokesperson George Charamba blasted the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum, Young Lawyers Association and Law Society of Zimbabwe for launching court challenges against constitutional amendments. Newsday
ZIMBABWE United Passenger Company (Zupco) workers who are not yet vaccinated have allegedly been barred from conducting their duties, CITE has learnt.

The transport company allegedly sent WhatsApp messages to members of the staff on Tuesday evening requesting them to bring their Covid-19 vaccination cards and national identity cards before they are allowed to resume their duties.

To date, 955 656 people have received their first dosage of the vaccine while 619 883 have received both doses.

Zupco conductors who spoke to CITE on condition of anonymity said when they reported for duty on Wednesday, they were notified that all those who have not been vaccinated would not be allowed to work.

The messages that they sent us were informing us to bring both vaccination and national identity cards. They also stated that those who havent been vaccinated should report to the Kelvin depot, said one employee.

When we got to work in the morning there was a sign at the ticket office stating that NO ID, NO VACCINE, NO JOB. They told us that only those with vaccination cards would be allowed to collect ticket books and report for duty.

The source said after those with vaccination cards had left, their supervisors told them that they would be marked absent on the work register.

The dispatcher and yard supervisor instructed us to write down our names, work numbers and ID numbers on sheets of paper which they said would be taken to HR. They said all those without vaccination cards would not be marked present. According to company policy, if one is marked absent for 5 consecutive days their contract gets terminated.

Another source said the conduct of the management was very insensitive as they did not make an effort to seek reasons why the employees have not yet been vaccinated.

Their decision was sudden and insensitive, they could have conducted this in a better way. Its like we are being forced to get vaccinated. When this vaccine was first introduced the government said those who want can get it. It was never a forced matter, said the source.

Some of us have health conditions. I personally react to certain drugs hence my resistance to get vaccinated, but they do not care about all that. If anything happens to my health they will not assist m Zupco acting chief executive officer, Everisto Madangwa dismissed claims that they were forcing the employee to get vaccinated.

Madangwa explained that the company has, since the rollout of the campaign in April, been encouraging its members of staff to get vaccinated since they interact with people on a daily basis.

Noone is being forced to take the vaccine. We are only encouraging our employees to take it as soon as possible. We actually started this campaign around April when the vaccination program was introduced. Seeing the upsurge of figures of Covid-19 cases of late, we saw it fit to intensify our campaign, said Madangwa.

We ferry members of the public on a daily basis. We must ensure that our passengers are safe. The vaccine will also protect the members of staff themselves. We are faced with a situation where we have to make a choice to ensure that both our clients (passengers) and our staff are safe from the virus.e in any way, they wouldnt care. Cite.org.zw
The memo that proved to be the tipping point, Fiscus said, was one she sent to health care providers seeking clarification on what to do when minors came seeking a vaccine without a parent present. The language used, she said in a statement excoriating officials and politicians who would get in the way of potentially life-saving vaccinations, had been approved by the health departments own legal personnel.
Jordan had help from a madam in the United Kingdom, with whom he shared and referred prostitutes and johns. The indictment notes that two of the women traveled from California to New York for sex work.
Moreover, Parnas did eventually share documents with House Democrats investigating Trumps pressure campaign on Ukrainian officials for dirt on then-Democratic challenger Joe Biden. Prosecutors did not object when the Ukrainian-born businessman made numerous media appearances, detailing his dealings with Trump and Giuliani.
Feingold said the whole family was close. We were born in Tunisia, she said. We came here because there were better job opportunities for my father.
He just had a baby three or four months ago.... I just cant believe it, Quinones, 38, said. He was nice, caring. He was a people person. He was always trying to help people.
Our goal is to provide every rescued pup with a loving forever home, the nonprofits website says. Our dogs come in to the rescue for many different reasons. Many were abandoned at high-kill shelters. Some were turned in by owners who could not properly care for them, and others we rescued from ads online such as craigslist.
Garners family and its supporters want the inquiry to probe possible false statements on the case by top city officials; any lack of discipline of cops found to have committed misconduct; allegations that laws were violated during Garners stop, arrest and use of force; the leaking of his arrest history and medical conditions, and the lack of medical care by officers on the scene.
A gunman shot Simeon three times outside the deli about 2:20 p.m.  striking him in the torso and arm  and ran off, police sources said. Simeon may have been riding a Citi Bike when he was shot, sources said.
The woman was zipping north on the Whitestone Expressway in Flushing when she rear-ended the Postal Service truck near Linden Place just before 7 a.m., according to authorities.
A girl was going crazy stopping traffic and going, I cant believe it. I cant believe they shot him, Iris recounted. His grandmother came running out of his building with no shoes on. She was yelling, Where is he? She pushed the officers away from the door to get to her grandson but it was too late.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services launched an investigation into the 41-year-old doctor from Napa in April, after a person reported her for selling the alleged coronavirus treatment to a family member. According to court documents, the licensed homeopathic care provider offered homeoprophylaxis immunization pellets she claimed contained the COVID-19 virus and would create an antibody response in the immune system.
Smart, a freshman at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, was last seen alive around 2 a.m. on May 25, 1996, leaving an off-campus party with Paul Flores, who has long maintained that he walked her part of the way home before returning to his own dorm. But authorities believe Flores actually brought Smart back to his room, where he killed her during a rape attempt.
The chief told reporters on Wednesday that Cummings was not the target of Harrods gunfire, which investigators believe was meant for a couple seated in a parked car nearby the hotel. The 29-year-old from Annapolis allegedly escaped house arrest weeks before the killing after he managed to cut off his ankle monitor and flee.
Brown was fatally shot April 21 while inside his car near his home in Elizabeth City. His cause of death was a gunshot to the back of the head, autopsies confirmed. None of the several officers at Browns home that morning were charged with crimes.
The case is pretty far from being closed, far from being just put aside as an accident or a civil matter or anything like that, he said. Were still very aggressively pursuing to understand the case to the extent to where if there are any criminal elements attached to what happened.
The unidentified child from Canton was only briefly pinned by the elevator before rescue workers arrived and freed him, but they were unsuccessful in reviving the child, whom local stations said had no pulse when first responders arrived.
The crooked cop was fired from the Jackson County Sheriffs Office after internal affairs investigators found some of those drugs hidden in his patrol car in the summer of 2018. The scandal led prosecutors to drop charges in almost 120 cases involving Wester between 2016 and 2018.
I want to make it very clear that the victims of this tragedy are not going to be sacrificing their funds and their property for a memorial, Hanzman said, according to WSVN. He suggested a state or federal agency could purchase the property at fair market value to create a memorial.
The California-born funnyman said he took two different tests to make sure he had the virus and both came back positive. The diagnosis forced him to cancel his remaining shows at the Tobin Center in San Antonio, Texas, where he had been performing since late June.
The Genesee County Human Oppression Strike Team, known as G.H.O.S.T., took over the case and learned the young woman had met Flowers and Erwin on the social media app MeetMe and had been living with them, according to the sheriffs office. The investigation revealed that the couple was facilitating people to come have sex with this special-needs individual, Swanson said.
Minneapolis became the first city in the state to ban the practice in 2019. It has since been followed by other cities, such as St. Paul and Duluth. With the order, Minnesota now joins a list of 20 states which, along with Washington, D.C., have laws in place to protect LGBTQ youth from the dangers of the practice, according to the think tank Movement Advancement Project.
The video was initially posted on the TikTok account belonging to a woman named Lakyn, who was vacationing with her husband Stephen on the island of Kauai in June for their honeymoon. Out of privacy, the couple requested that their last name not be published.
The note also stated that 38-year-old Corey Brewer was holding her captive, had a knife and was sexually and physically assaulting her, NBC News affiliate WPXI reported. Walmart employees found the note and turned it over to police on July 8, according to the station.
Laurel Eich, who was an employee of the business, admitted to detectives that she did perform a procedure to extract 13 teeth from an unidentified person and used anesthetic disposed of by the dental office, according to the Washoe County Sheriffs Office.
The mayor said 14 people remain unaccounted for, including 10 victims whose bodies have been recovered but not yet identified, AP said. This leaves potentially four more victims to be found. Of the 14 people considered not accounted for, the mayor said 12 are the subject of missing persons reports, and detectives are trying to verify information about the other two.
Now, Aguilar is charged with three counts of being an accessory after the fact, two counts of tampering with evidence, one count of conspiracy to tamper, one count of destroying records and four counts of lying to investigators.
Chandler Halderson, 23, reported his parents Bart Halderson, 50, and Krista Halderson, 53, missing on July 7, claiming the couple never returned after leaving their Village of Windsor home to spend the July 4th holiday weekend with an unknown couple at their cabin in White Lake, authorities said.
Thousands of people in neighborhoods of the city of Maastricht and other villages along the Maas River were ordered to evacuate Thursday evening amid threats of flooding, and centers were set up to house them. The Maas is the Dutch name for the Meuse River.
We have been constantly engaging business improvement districts, Times Square and many others, making adjustments where people raise concerns. We take them really seriously. Thats why wed like to see a little consistency if were working with people constantly trying to address issues together, he said. Times Square, we put a huge number of officers there, everyone sees it, and well keep them there as long as we need, and we will address the issues.
Adams, who is known for working past midnight, including overnights at Brooklyn Borough Hall during the height of the pandemic as well as his mayoral campaign, wound up giving the media a tour of his Brooklyn apartment to quell concerns about where he lays his head.
If Breyer waits till after the midterm elections, the Senate could fall back into the hands of Republicans. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has made it clear that he would consider blocking a replacement for Breyer until after the 2024 presidential election.
An administration official disputed those claims. Treasury Department estimates indicate that 97% of recipients of the tax credit have wages or self-employment income, while the other 3% are grandparents or have health issues. The official, who requested anonymity to discuss internal analyses, noted that the credit starts to phase out at $150,000 for joint filers, so there is no disincentive for the poor to work because a job would just give them more income.
Our idea is and remains that Ukraine remains a transit country for natural gas, that Ukraine just as any other country in the world has a right to territorial sovereignty, Merkel said. She added that Germany stood ready to react to Moscow should Russia not respect this right of Ukraine that it has as a transit country.
Since March, the American Civil Liberties Union has acted as an intermediary by forwarding requests from advocacy groups in Tijuana and elsewhere along the border for up to 35 families a day. The ACLU said in May that about 2,000 people were admitted through the efforts to settle a lawsuit it filed against the government. ACLU attorney Lee Gelernt said the Biden administration wont allow a more recent number to be released.
The board had paper ballots to go back to in case it encountered any issues with tabulating the results. And regardless of ones ideological views about ranked-choice voting, no one with any serious knowledge of the system believes it is inherently anti-democratic or illegitimate. This is due in part to the numerous other cities and countries, including in Australia and Ireland, that have successfully implemented such systems. No, the biggest legitimate concern with the New York fiasco is the way an election administration mistake with no bearing on the actual results has been weaponized to fuel conspiracy theories that further undermine voter confidence, both in New York City and elsewhere.
Due to a number of recent changes in our laws, law enforcements traditional ability to search and seize illegal firearms has been inhibited. Among these are a reduction in stop and frisk and the issuance of summonses as well as the elimination of plain clothes units in New York City. Compounding this are the dozens of new laws and transformative alterations to existing laws that have occurred over the past two years that have far-reaching impact on how law enforcement is able to do their jobs including the ability to search and seize handguns. Although the goal of these acts of the Legislature were no doubt well-intended, the consequence is that thousands of illegal weapons seized each year will no longer be taken off the streets. This highlights the need for a conversation about how we can protect the public from illegal guns and what new tools can be fairly utilized by police going forward.
Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex and I are deeply passionate about bringing the inspirational and positive stories of extraordinary women from around the world to a global audience of all ages. The team collaborating on the series are first class, and Netflix are the perfect partner.
As someone who has moved with my family from California to Florida and back again, I understand that relocation is a big change, not only for the employee but also for their families, DAmaro wrote in a letter to staffers. Therefore, moving these roles to Central Florida will take place throughout the next 18 months, providing flexibility in timing to accommodate individual situations and needs.
The cruise industry halted in March 2020, and only in the last month has sailed in the Western Hemisphere. Canada, though, remains off the board. The block of Canadian ports prompted the U.S. government to pass a law that would temporarily allow foreign-flagged cruise ships sailing from U.S. ports for Alaska sailings to bypass the requirement of docking at at least one foreign port during their sailing. Without a Canadian stop on the itinerary, most cruise lines would have been blocked from Alaska sailings without the U.S. intervention.
By comparison, the chicken kare-kare, a chicken and vegetable stew that shared the same box, was mild. There were two pieces of crunchy cabbage and one crisp green bean in my box, almost as if theyd fallen in by accident (I was disappointed, as Id seen loads of veggies in the chafing dish; next time Ill pay more attention and ask for more), but alongside were four massive pieces of skin-on dark meat, one entire leg and three split thigh pieces, all in mild, vaguely peanutty sauce the color of pad thai with a deep, forever-stewed chicken essence as its core flavor. All was ladled over a heap of rice.
Prosecutors said the younger Tuck was inside the Capitol when an officer tried to stop him. He used his open palm to strike the officer and, when the officer grabbed him again, used his elbow to strike the officers hand before walking further into the building, authorities say.
An investigator texted Long from Swigers phone and arranged for another drop off at the hotel later that day. When Long showed up, in the same car that police observed on surveillance footage from earlier, he was arrested.
Risking everything, thousands of Cubans are bravely confronting their brutal, authoritarian government. They desperately need the worlds support to lift up their demands for freedom. One of the most powerful messages America can send right now is offering to put our partisan differences aside, and stand firmly, together, behind this historic call for true self-determination, Wasserman Schultz said in a statement. The Cuban people are courageous and strong, but their plea for free speech, assembly, internet access, and a chance to choose their own leaders cannot be met with silence.
Forensic scientists are like artists, Perper told The Miami Herald in 1994 as he was preparing his move to Broward from the Allegheny County Coroners Office in Pittsburgh. An artist is painting an object or doing the sculpture and, at some time, its finished. You can continue forever to chisel another detail into it, another crease. But sometimes, you have to move to another challenge. For me, Broward is that challenge.
City Manager Randy Knight told commissioners that having the firms help opens the door to get us in and maybe have more conversations about acquiring the property or perhaps put a mechanism in place that would guarantee it becomes ours should they ever decide to sell it in the future if were not able to negotiate something.
He said peaceful protestors have the right to express their views. But it cant be where you shut down commerce or you shut down the ability to use these arteries. Its very important that people are able to get, especially in a place like Miami where the traffic can be really bad, and, again, again you never know someone may need to get to a hospital or something like that.
I think its just downright hypocrisy were seeing from the governor, and even law enforcement in how theyre applying this law. It goes to show how our fears that we had earlier  that it will be used against Black people fighting for equal rights, he added.
But, he added, placing all of the blame squarely on the foreign policy of the United States is just wrong. Yes, the embargo has hurt the Cuban people and it needs to be lifted. But the blame for how the people of Cuba have been treated by this socialist, communist dictatorship is squarely on the leaders in Cubas government who have totally failed them, period.
While it is shocking these claims where submitted by the Florida Department of Children and Families, the state agency entrusted with assisting vulnerable and needy individuals, I commend the agency for correcting its conduct, cooperating with our investigation, and resolving its liability for its past actions, said Joseph Harrington, the acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington. Together with our partners in the Justice Departments Civil Division and the USDA, we will continue to investigate and hold accountable those who misuse and wrongfully obtain SNAP funding.


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Oswego, NY (13126)

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Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 77F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph..

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Clear skies. Low 68F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph.
Lieutenant Gov. Kathy Holchul and CCC President Dr. Brian M. Durant take a tour of the schools new DRI-funded Culinary Institute due to open on Aug. 30 on Wednesday, July 14. The institute is the first finished project funded by the $10 million awarded to Auburn in July of 2018. A Buffalo native, Hochul entertained students with a tale of her expert chicken wing technique  and secret sauces.
Djaquinn Johnson, seen here in his 2020 mugshot, was sentenced this week for felony assault.
Geneva, Switzerland (PANA) - The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a major backsliding in childhood vaccinations, with 23 million children worldwide missing out on routine immunizations last year, two UN agencies reported on Wednesday
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - Foreign ministers of the 15-member countries of the UN Security Council will meet Thursday in New York on Libya to unravel the political impasse and finalize the roadmap of the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum (LPDF)
Abuja, Nigeria (PANA) - The Senate on Thursday approved President Muhammadu Buharis request for ongoing external loans to the tune of $8,325,526,537 (USD) and 490,000,000 (Euros) under the 2018-2020 External Borrowing (Rolling) Plan
ASOS, Experian, Severn Trent are among the notable names in the diary for Thursday.

( ) will deliver a trading update on Thursday following a strong half-year that saw its revenue rise 25% to nearly 2bn.

However, the fast fashion firm warned that the tailwind it experienced during lockdown could slow as the relaxation of restrictions opens up high streets again, leaving customers less dependent on its online offering.

While few details are expected on profits, sales trends will be eyed closely in North America as well as the performance of the firms core UK market.

However, while lockdown may revive competition, the return of parties and social events could offset any declines.

Also in focus will be any details on the companys profit outlook for the full year.

eyed for US recovery news

Credit data firm Experian PLCs ( ) trading update on Thursday will be eyed for any information on how the US economic recovery is progressing.

The expectation is that the firms consumer division will be the key driver of top-line growth, however, any comments on which areas of the US are holding up best will be taken in context with how the pandemic is spreading in different parts of the country.

washes up with trading update

Severn Trent PLC ( ) is in the diary with a trading statement on what looks like a fairly busy Thursday.

We last heard from the water company in May when it reported results and much of the sector announced investments under the governments Green Recovery programme, with the FTSE 100 utility tapping shareholders for 250mln to help fund its six projects.

SVTs results for the year to end-March 2021 showed a 17% fall in underlying profits due to new tariffs, the net impact of the pandemic on consumption and investment in its services.

Lower water demand from businesses was partially offset by an increase in demand from households last year, resulting in a 50mln reduction in revenue.

This should be recoverable in the future, said analysts at Hargreaves Lansdown, with trends moving back towards normal with the reopening of the economy and managements comments in this update expected to help investor understanding.

For its sustainability credentials, SVT may hopefully also explain why the scale of the water industry illegally discharging sewage is so bad and what plans there are to improve it.

A recent study found water companies illegal sewage discharges were 10 times worse than the Environment Agency (EA) estimates, with the growing outcry over sewage discharges into rivers leading to the EA publishing full details of the scale of the problem earlier this year.

Thursday July 15

Trading announcements: ASOS PLC ( ), Experian PLC ( ), ( ), Severn Trent PLC ( ), PLC ( ), ( ), ( )

Finals: ( ), ( ), ( )

FTSE 100 ex-dividends: None

Economic data: UK unemployment, UK earnings, US jobless claims
This progress, coupled with a strong gas price forecast, is the best possible start we could have aimed for with our Phase I gas development planning, says CEO.

Hartshead is developing its Phase I gas fields in the UK's Southern Gas Basin.

Hartshead Resources NL (ASX:HHR) (FRA:P6V0) has made strong progress on its Phase I Concept Select work program in the UK Southern Gas Basin.

The work schedule is taking place across Hartsheads Phase I assets  the Viking Wx and Victoria gas fields  within its wholly-owned and operated production seaward licence in the Southern Gas Basin.

So far, work at the gas fields has included key development planning tasks, such as subsurface interpretation and modelling and frac modelling and design, as well as development well, production facility and commercial gas transportation planning.

The Viking and Victoria fields host a combined 217 billion cubic feet in audited 2C contingent gas resources and are historical producing gas fields.

With development activities underway at the Phase I fields, Hartshead intends to define a development concept and gas export route next year, make a final investment decision in 2023 and achieve first gas in 2024.

Best possible start

Hartshead Resources CEO Chris Lewis said: Progress is on track with the subsurface, development drilling and production facilities aspects of the Concept Select work.

It is also very encouraging that we are now engaged in discussions with multiple third-party infrastructure owners to secure an export route to monetise our gas resources.

This progress, coupled with a strong gas price forecast, is the best possible start we could have aimed for with our Phase I gas development planning.

Developing assets in UK Southern Gas Basin

Hartsheads Concept Select work program covers development activities across two Phase I gas fields within the companys wholly-owned and operated P2607 licence, spanning 729.5 square kilometres.

Specifically, the licence comprises five blocks in Quads 48 and 49 on the United Kingdom Continental Shelf within the Southern Gas Basin.

It contains multiple gas fields, some of which have been only partially developed, and several exploration prospects. These are divided into three phases for workstreams and operations across the licence.

Subsurface interpretation and modelling

The geophysical re-mapping of the Victoria and Viking Wx gas fields, based on the interpretation of existing 3D seismic datasets, has now been completed by Xodus Group.

Building of geo-cellular static field models of each field has commenced, which combines the new mapping with the recently updated petrophysical well log interpretations.

This will be used to construct full-field dynamic reservoir simulation models, which will then be history matched to the historical gas production from the fields.

The reservoir simulation models will be used to generate production profiles and updated resource outputs for the Concept Select, third party infrastructure hosts and engineers for the optimisation of production well frac design.

Frac modelling and design

So far, Fenix Consulting Delft has analysed three historically fracced production wells in the Victoria and Viking Wx fields.

The analysis has provided information on the wells fracture characteristics, such as near-wellbore permeabilities, fracture dimensions and proppant concentrations achieved during the previous operations.

The results from this review will help design and optimise new fracs in planned future development wells on the Phase I fields.

Development well planning

A review of the potential development well trajectories for the Victoria and Viking Wx fields from one or multiple well centres has been completed by Fraser Well Management (FWM).

FWM are now developing well designs and costings for drilling from single and dual well centres, which are capable of reaching the furthest extents of the Victoria and Viking Wx fields, while simultaneously allowing optimal levels of well fracturing to be achieved.

Production facilities planning

Currently, Hartsheads Greenfield Concept Select study is underway as part of the Petrofac contract. This is interfacing with subsurface, well and frac engineering and HSEQ.

So far, Petrofac has completed capital cost estimations for myriad potential development concepts, while operating expense estimations are underway.

Support is also being provided to progress the tie-in and offtake options with third-party infrastructure hosts.

Commercial gas transportation

Finally, discussions are underway with some potential third party infrastructure hosts, where possible export routes for gas from the Victoria and Viking Wx fields have been identified.

A series of workshops are planned with the potential host operators to commence feasibility studies for the tie-in of Hartsheads facilities and gas offtake.

The feasibility studies will commence once Hartshead' terms of reference for the tie-ins have been established. These will be evaluated before the company enters an indicative commercial agreement.

UK gas market update and forecast

Todays work program update was released in tandem with a review of the UKs gas market, with the UK Domestic and European gas markets continuing to support a robust UK gas price.

Over the last six months, the UKs gas pricing has increased more than 80%, with the current spot price sitting at 85 pence per therm.

Even more significantly, the near-term gas price has increased 105% since the Hartshead projects were acquired in February this year. Near-term natural gas futures are around 100 pence per therm, compared to 47.5 pence per therm around the time of the buy.

The UK gas futures curve also points to a long term price above 45 pence per therm.

Hartsheads own economic evaluation of the Phase I development has used a gas price assumption of 45 p/therm which demonstrates robust project economics.
Orcadian Energy's ( ) Steve Brown joins Proactive London on their first day of dealings as a listed company in London.

The North Sea focused, oil and gas development company is now trading on AIM with the placing of new shares raising gross proceeds of 3 million for the company.

The plan now is to progress with the pilot oilfield towards a Field Development Plan; including an FPSO market approach with Crondall as Brown explains.
Hipgnosis wants a full Competition Authority inquiry into the streaming industry

( ) has thrown its weight behind a call from MPs to change how much musicians and writers get paid from streaming.

A report by the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) committee said a complete reset of the market is required with artists splitting royalties on a 50/50 basis with music companies, rather than getting around 16% as they do now.

Only a complete reset of streaming that enshrines in law their rights to a fair share of the earnings will do," said Julian Knight, chair of the DCMS committee.

Hipgnosis welcomed the report, with founder and chief executive Merck Mercuriadis saying it had got to the nub of the issue,

"This is an impressive report from the DCMS Committee.

In a short space of time, our members of parliament have been able to distil why the songwriter and artist are not being remunerated properly with some accuracy and we both applaud and support their efforts.

Mercuriadis added it is essential that the unhealthy control that the major recorded music companies have over streaming negotiations is addressed and to expose the fundamental flaws that exist within the music industry.

He wants a full Competition Authority inquiry into the streaming industry to show the economic consequences of this dominance.

Paul McCartney, Kate Bush and Jessie Ware are also among hundreds of musicians who have written to the Prime Minister calling for changes.

The committee suggested it would be a straightforward change to bring streaming in line with radio where the income split is half and half.

Record labels, though, said it was not a fair comparison.

"Streaming is 24-7 in every country in the world, you can listen to the greatest record store ever - it's clearly a sale, it's not radio, it's on-demand," said David Joseph, CEO of Universal Music UK told the committee.

Music industry trade body the BPI added that streaming was "enabling more artists than ever" to earn a "long-term, sustainable income" and expressed concern about possible changes on new talent.

According to the BBC, Spotify is believed to pay between 0.002 and 0.0038 per stream, while Apple Music pays about 0.0059 and YouTube about 0.00052 (or 0.05 pence) per stream.

This income goes to rights-holders who are everyone involved from record companies to artists with the money divided up between them, but not equally claim the artists.
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The Asia Pacific multi-asset gold producer has secured 158,125,983 shares for a 19.785% stake in KIN after outlaying more than $25.3 million at 16 cents per share.

KIN is making strong progress in growing resources at the Cardinia Gold Project.

( ) has received strong validation of its exploration strategy and growing inventory with prominent Asia Pacific gold producer ( ) (OTCMKTS:STBMY) becoming an initial substantial holder.

This status was attained on July 14 with St Barbara now holding 158,125,983 shares for a 19.785% stake after outlaying more than $25.3 million at 16 cents per share.

It follows strong newsflow from Kin in recent months that has seen the companys market cap reach approximately $111.9 million.

Strong quarter

The companys progress and successes at the flagship Cardinia Gold Project (CGP) in Western Australia during the June quarter were reviewed this week by managing director Andrew Munckton.

READ: Kin Mining reflects on busy June quarter ahead of further gold resource upgrades, regional exploration at Cardinia

Regional exploration has been expanded at CGP; the resource has been boosted to 1.23 million ounces grading 1.28 g/t; and as of June 30, 2021, the company had $7.44 million in cash available to fund work across its flagship asset.

Munckton said: Thanks to the successful $12.8 million capital raising, completed last quarter, Kin Mining has been able to maintain an impressive pace of exploration results and resource development activity during the June quarter  notwithstanding the capacity constraints and personnel shortages being experienced across the sector.

We delivered a further increase in the mineral resource at the Cardinia Gold Project to 1.23 million ounces, including a 15% increase in the all-important, higher-confidence measured and indicated components to 762,000 ounces.

This incorporated the results from earlier drilling programs at the Bruno-Lewis and Hobby deposits."

Ongoing work

He also spoke about upcoming work, saying: We are now working towards the next resource update for the CGP scheduled for the September quarter, which will include the impressive results generated from infill and extensional drilling at our developing Cardinia Hill deposit.

Major aircore programs also continued across the project during the quarter, targeting the next step-change in growth at the CGP.

Its been really pleasing to see two new areas emerge as early contenders in this regard  Eagle-Crow and Mount Flora.

The objective of the regional program is to systematically test the wide range of exploration opportunities across the companys broader tenement holding to determine the potential for new discoveries and emerging satellite opportunities to complement the core 1.23-million-ounce CGP."
The appointment of the new non-executive directors James Davis and Mitch Taylor follows the resignation of Graham Holdaway in May 2020 and John Sergeant in May 2021.

"We welcome the additional capacity the new directors bring to the board at an important time for KIPT in its evolution," says chairman.

( ) has restored its board to full strength by appointing two new non-executive directors - James Davis and Mitch Taylor - following the resignation of Graham Holdaway and John Sergeant.

KPT believe both appointments bring significant skills to the board and will seek confirmation by shareholders at the company's next general meeting.

Important time in KPT evolution

Kangaroo Island chairman Paul McKenzie said: We are pleased to welcome the additional capacity the new directors bring to the board at an important time for KIPT in its evolution following the wildfires of January 2020.

We particularly note the continued support of our major shareholder Samuel Terry Asset Management with its appointment of Mitch Taylor to the board.

Investment management experience

Davis has more than 35 years of experience in investment management across timberland, economic infrastructure, real estate, private equity and special situations.

Most recently he was head of Funds Management at New Forests Asset Management and prior to that he held director roles at Hastings Funds Management Limited and Royal Bank of Scotlands Strategic Investments Group.

He has served on numerous investment committees and boards including as chairman of both Timberlink Australia and Tasmanian-based plantation owner Forico.

He is chairman of ASX-listed property investor Eildon Capital Ltd (ASX:EDC) and a non-executive director of ASX-listed New Energy Solar Ltd (ASX:NEW) and is also a member of the Advisory Board for AGR Partners, a US-based private equity firm focused on agribusiness.

Commercial fund management experience

Taylor is a portfolio manager at Samuel Terry Asset Management Pty Ltd, which manages the Samuel Terry Absolute Return Active Fund, the largest shareholder of KIPT.

He has more than 10 years of commercial experience in funds management and experience in a variety of commercial transactions and corporate situations across a range of industries.

He holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Sydney, a Master of Applied Finance from Macquarie University, and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Okapi aims to deliver a JORC 2012 resource estimate for the Tallahassee Uranium Project in coming months and subsequently kick off a 10,000 metres drilling program.

The company will be well-funded with about A$6.3 million in cash upon completion of a placement.

( ) (FRA:26O) directors have demonstrated their faith in the companys new uranium strategy and its existing gold strategy with on-market purchases of shares and listed options.

Interim chairman and non-executive director Peretz Schapiro on July 12 acquired 150,000 shares worth $42,000 in an indirect interest, marking his first purchase in the company.

On July 14 company secretary Leonard Math purchased 102,298 shares in an indirect interest for almost $30,000, increasing his total number of securities held to 197,536.

Executive director David Nour on July 12 acquired 200,000 OKRO Listed Options exercisable at $0.30 each and expiring on March 31, 2023 with this transaction valued at $15,803.

He now holds 3,495,060 Fully Paid Ordinary Shares along with 300,000 of the Listed Options in a direct interest.

Transformational acquisition

Okapis shares jumped as much as 55% on Monday after it signed a transformational binding agreement to acquire 100%of Tallahassee Resources, which holds a portfolio of large, high-grade uranium projects in the US.

Tallahassee has a 100% interest in mineral rights that cover about 7,500 acres in the Tallahassee Creek Uranium District of Colorado together with an option to acquire 100% of the Rattler Uranium Project.

The Tallahassee Uranium Project contains a JORC 2004 resource estimate of 26 million pounds of uranium (U3O8) at a grade of 540ppm U3O8, with exploration upside.

The Rattler Project includes the historical Rattlesnake open pit mine from which 285,000 tonnes of ore was mined between 1948 and 1954 at grades of 2,800ppm U3O8 and 10,000ppm vanadium (V2O5) for 1.6 million pounds of U3O8 and 4.5 million pounds of V2O5.
The companys updated inferred estimate for the Canadian project comprises a high-grade component of 1.47 million ounces at 10.1 g/t as well as a maiden BIF-hosted resource of 242,000 ounces at 3.7 g/t.

Autecos subsequent 50,000 metres drill program is well underway and is generating strong results.

Auteco Minerals Ltd ( ) has increased the inferred mineral resource estimate for the Pickle Crow Project in Ontario, Canada, by 71% to 1.7 million ounces of gold.

This strong result includes a high-grade vein-hosted resource of 4.5 million tonnes at 10.1 g/t for 1.47 million ounces of gold, an increase of 47 per cent.

In addition, the new estimate contains a maiden JORC inferred resource of 2.1 million tonnes at 3.7 g/t for 242,000 ounces of gold hosted within the adjacent Banded Iron Formation (BIF).

Promisingly, Autecos drilling carried out since the cut-off for the resource update has intersected even more high-grade gold outside the resource.

Exceptional result

Auteco executive chairman Ray Shorrocks said: To grow the high-grade resource by almost 50 per cent by adding 470,000 ounces at more than 10 g/t is an exceptional result.

Achieving that at a cost of around A$15 per ounce is even better.

Pickle Crow now has genuine scale and is truly high-grade by any measure. These factors highlight the quality of the mineralised system.

And the good news continues to flow, with the new drilling program already intersecting significant high-grade mineralisation outside the updated resource envelope.

Exploration and growth program

Autecos resource update is the successful culmination of the September 2020 exploration and growth program, which was underpinned by 45,000 metres of drilling.

This campaign resulted in the addition of 710,000 ounces of gold at A$15.25 per resource ounce, in addition to the discovery of numerous new veins and mineralised zones such as Carey.

The Pickle Crow mine was one of Canadas highest-grade historical producers, with 1.5 million ounces of gold produced at a grade of 16.1 g/t between 1935 and 1966.

Gold was sourced from narrow high-grade quartz-carbonate veins mined from underground, this style of mineralisation forms the bulk of the inferred mineral resource also

Autecos subsequent 50,000 metres drill program is well underway and is already generating strong results.

The company is fully funded for its growth strategy with A$26.8 million cash on hand on March 31, 2021

Phase two drilling

Auteco has to date completed a total of 5,622 metres of drilling in 14 diamond drill holes in the phase two drilling program.

The drilling has continued to test the extent and continuity of newly discovered veins to the northwest of Shaft 3.

Assay results have been partially received for five holes, and assays are yet to be received for a further nine.

Strong intersections returned from drilling northwest of Shaft 3 include:

1.8 metres at 16.6 g/t gold from 61.5 metres;

3.3 metres at 8.0 g/t from 836.4 metres;

1.8 metres at 21.2 g/t from 838 metres;

4.9 metres at 4.7 g/t from 514 metres, including 2.1 metres at 10.4 g/t; and

1-metre at 14.1 g/t from 432 metres.

Furthermore, the company aims to begin concept-stage exploration target testing, which has yielded immediate results with the Carey discovery that returned an intersection of 20.4 metres at 5.3 g/t gold.

Forward work plan

Auteco has devised a forward work plan to the end of 2021 for the Pickle Crow Project which has been summarised into three key activity categories:

Growth and exploration : Continue the dual strategy of near-mine resource growth and regional discovery focused exploration.

: Continue the dual strategy of near-mine resource growth and regional discovery focused exploration. Resource update : Complete an updated mineral resource estimate.

: Complete an updated mineral resource estimate. Pathway to production: Commence high-level activities to demonstrate a pathway to production

The three-staged approach will continue to focus on exploration and growth, preparing for a year-end resource estimate and completing activities that potentially demonstrate a pathway to production for the Pickle Crow deposit.

- Ephrems Joseph
Proceeds of the placement will strengthen Makos balance sheet and provide a pathway to accelerate exploration at the Tchaga Prospect on the Napie Gold Project.

Mako is exploring West Africas Birimian Greenstone Belts which hosts over 400 million ounces of gold.

( ) has gained a new substantial shareholder in Delphi which has picked up an 8.93% interest in the company.

Wilhelm K.T. Zours majority-owned Delphi Unternehmensberatung Aktiengesellschaft (AG) and related entities picked up the stake by participating in Makos $10 million placement.

The placement at an issue price of 8 cents per share was strongly supported by new and existing institutional investors.

Mako is now fully funded to deliver an accelerated exploration program as part of its growth strategy at the flagship Napie Gold Project in Cote dIvoire.

High-quality institutional investors

Mako managing director Peter Ledwidge said: We are extremely pleased by the overwhelming support from quality domestic and international institutional investors.

Attracting such high-quality institutional investors speaks to the potential of the project and experience of our team.

Proceeds of the placement will strengthen Makos balance sheet and provide a pathway to accelerate exploration at the Tchaga Prospect on the Napie Project as we move towards and beyond a maiden mineral resource estimate.

The funds raised will also allow us to implement significant drill programs on other prospects at Napie and to fast-track exploration on our Korhogo Project.

We are pleased to welcome a number of new institutional shareholders to our register and sincerely thank our existing shareholders for their continued support.
The webinar was live-streamed and can be viewed at any time on the Proactive Youtube channel.

Archer Materials Ltd, Cirralto Ltd and XTEK Ltd presented on Tuesday, July 13

Earlier this week Proactive held a Technology Webinar, attracting investors from inside and outside of Australia and setting the scene for three ASX-listed tech companies  ( ), ( ) and ( ) to present on their stories, strategies and future plans.

The webinar, which included three 12-minute presentations followed by a 5-minute Q&A session was live-streamed and can be viewed at any time.

To watch the full webinar, follow this link.

Archer highlights global-scale

Archer Materials chief executive officer Mohammad Choucair introduced investors to the global-scale in opportunity its technology represents.

The Sydney-based technology company is one of very few companies in the world building a quantum computing chip and the only one listed on the ASX doing so.

Holding a market cap of A$263.9 million, A$6.61 million cash in the bank at March 31, 2021, and no debt, he said the company was well-funded to act on its key activities.

These include progressing its deep-tech development with a focus on milestones in the operation of the 12CQ chip, strengthening commercial opportunities and advancing international prosecution of patent applications.

He said: Archers objective is to build a quantum chip that can function at normal conditions on modern-day devices.

We are on the path to achieving this and it is absolutely exciting to be in this position.

Choucair highlighted that according to BCG and , value for investors in the multi-billion-dollar quantum computing economy is expected to increase rapidly as the commercial viability of quantum hardware matures.

For one, the CSIRO reported Australian quantum tech could create A $4 billion revenue and 16,000 new jobs by 2040;

The US National Quantum Initiative Act was signed into US law on December 21, 2018;

The US is strengthening investments in quantum tech and preparing a quantum-ready workforce; and

More than 100 companies in the UK are active in quantum computing with more than 1 billion of investment expected.

To watch this presentation, click here.

Cirralto outlines niche market

Cirralto managing director Adrian Floate outlined the companys niche market as a software vendor to investors coupled with payments and finance.

He said: Were on a mission to fundamentally change the way people do business by implementing digital tools that streamline business processes, improve efficiency and payment practices so businesses can trade faster and get paid quicker.

Floate highlighted the business transformative year since between August 2020, which saw the company sign a binding share sale agreement to acquire Invigo, as well as referral agreements with and Fresh Supply Co Ltd.

He said: We are hitting the market hard  and we are getting recognition from market participants that they want to work with us to unlock the revenue potential in their existing networks.

To watch this presentation, click here.

XTEK's soldier solution innovations

To conclude the event, XTEK managing director Philippe Odouard spoke about the companys world-class innovations in soldier solutions.

He said the business revolved around helping the soldier on the front-line, which include Ballistic Solutions such as helmet systems, hard armour, soft armour and ballistic shields as well as technology solutions under the umbrella Actionable Intelligence.

These include XTatlas, SARBI and the AirWolf: Sensor to Shooter system.

Odouard emphasised the companys worldwide commercial coverage, comprising three facilities in Australia, a wholly-owned subsidiary in the US, HighCom Armour, and 45 agents in North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia Pacific.

To view this presentation, follow this link.
Element 25 Ltd (ASX:E25) is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.

Element 25 celebrates historic maiden manganese shipment from Butcherbird

Element 25 Ltd's (ASX:E25) first manganese ore shipment from its flagship Butcherbird project has set sail from Port Hedland in Western Australia.

The manganese developer exported 27,000 tonnes of high-grade manganese concentrate from its wholly-owned project, Australia's largest onshore manganese resource, on Wednesday, July 14.

Offtake partner OM Materials Pte Ltd (OMS) - a subsidiary of fellow ASX-lister OM Holdings Limited - is set to receive the maiden ore shipment.

Overall, the first-ever export kicks off a broader four-stage plan that positions Element 25 to provide high-grade manganese concentrate to the global electric vehicles market.
Infinity Lithium Ltd (ASX:INF) is seeking to develop its 75% owned San Jose Lithium Project and produce battery grade lithium hydroxide.

Infinity Lithium makes strong progress with test-work for San Jose Lithium Project in Spain

Infinity Lithium Corporation Ltd (ASX:INF) (FRA:3PM) is making strong progress with test-work as part of the EIT InnoEnergy funded program to produce battery-grade lithium hydroxide from the San Jose Lithium Project in Spain.

The test-work program funded by EIT InnoEnergy is undertaken and managed by industry-leader Dorfner Anzaplan in Germany and the company's Technical Advisory Committee in Australia with results generally consistent with pre-feasibility study (PFS) assumptions.

EIT InnoEnergy is part of a platform funded by the European Battery Alliance (EBA) with which Infinity is working closely.



Foundation for feasibility study

This work is intended to provide the foundation for a feasibility study for battery-grade lithium hydroxide production from San Jose.

The test-work program is based on the PFS delivered in 2019 and is intended to confirm study process assumptions and better define process engineering design criteria.

Lab-scale feasibility level test-work has now progressed to the fourth stage (crystallisation) after progressing through roast, leach and solution purification stages.

Larger-scale of 10s of kilograms feasibility level test-work kicked off in the first quarter of 2021 and has progressed to provide sufficient flotation concentrate to undertake upscaled roasting test-work.
It has outlined near-term, medium-term and long-term plans that will see it develop new applications and open new markets above and beyond its target markets.

The companys target markets - smart cities, casinos, smart surveillance and the retail industry  are very large and growing.

( ) ( ) is focusing on scaling rapidly as it set out its focus over the next five years to increase its customer base.

The world-leading artificial intelligence (AI) solutions provider has outlined its near-term, medium-term and long-term plans that will see it develop new applications and open new markets above and beyond its target markets.

The companys target markets - smart cities, casinos, smart surveillance and the retail industry  are very large and growing.

Its solutions are having transformational impacts on multiple industries including city councils, casinos, fuel retail and large-scale surveillance facilities.

Its new solutions under development are expected to have similar impacts on many more industries.

Near-term

In the one to two years near-term plan, the company plans to invest in marketing and sales channel development as well as in the productisation of its world-leading products.

It is also planning to accelerate growth in smart cities and the casino markets.

During this period, the target is to achieve more than 100 customers, generating annual recurring revenue (ARR).

Medium-term

In the next two to four years, the company plans to invest in its technology platform to make it robust and scalable to multiple adjacent markets.

In two to three years, it plans to grow from 35-plus cities to more than 100 cities.

It also plans to grow its analytics active on 10,000 plus cameras to 100,000 plus cameras in two to three years.

SenSen also plans to crack the broader retail market and grow to 1,000 plus stores in two to three years from its current 250 plus stores.

As for the casino market, it is targeting to hit 30 plus casinos in two to three years from its current base of two casinos in Melbourne and the Philippines.

Longer-term

In the three to five years, plans are afoot to open its platform to third-party application developers.

The aim is to develop new applications and open new markets above and beyond its target markets.

It also plans to invest in building the application developer ecosystem to exponentially increase the customer base and associated revenues.
The company is developing the Araguaia project as the next major ferronickel mine in Brazil and aims to supply nickel to the EV battery market

(LON:HZM, TSX: HZM) said significant progress has been made on its Araguaia nickel project in Brazil.

Competitive tendering for the supply of key processing equipment, electric furnace and project management (EPCM) services have been completed, and financing talks remain on track.

"In the six months since the completion of the value engineering work, significant progress has been made on plans to implement the project, said chief executive Jeremy Martin.

Tenders have been completed for approximately US$230mln of key equipment and services to be supplied under contract with industry-leading vendors. This progress has enabled the project execution plan to be further advanced and to better reflect the current context in Brazil, allowing us to successfully deliver a tier-one nickel project.

We have made progress with the senior debt facility following completion of due diligence by the lending syndicate, with credit committee approval on track for Q3 2021.

It is exciting to see an increase of activity on the ground in Brazil as our preparation to start construction in the coming months intensifies," he added.
It said the installation of the new ventilation system is part of the development and sustainability practices at Farellon and is designed to assist with productivity improvements over the next few months in advance of the mill start-up

The ventilation system involves the installation of a new 125 HP main exhaust fan, located in the northwest outside area of the mine

Altiplano Metals Inc ( ) (OTCMKTS:ALTPF) said work for a new ventilation system at its Farellon copper-gold mine in Chile is progressing with the completion of the pre-installation civil works and the arrival of the new fans.

The Canadian mining company said the installation of the new ventilation system is part of the ongoing development and sustainability practices at Farellon and is designed to assist with productivity improvements over the next few months in advance of the mill start-up.

READ: Altiplano Metals begins significant underground drilling at its Farellon copper-gold mine in Chile

The upgrade in ventilation maintains the health and well-being of the workers as the mine deepens, improves operational efficiencies, and provides the opportunity to increase the amount of equipment and personnel working on each shift underground, Altiplano's country manager for Chile Andres Encina said in a statement.

The ventilation system involves the installation of a new 125 HP main exhaust fan, located in the northwest outside area of the mine, and three auxiliary fans located in the operational levels of the mine. The installation work is expected to continue over the next two weeks.

Altiplano Metals is focused on the acquisition and development of near-term, cash-flowing assets and exploration projects of significant scale. The Edmonton-based company is looking to grow into a mid-tier producer of copper, gold, and silver with its goal to have three cash-flowing assets by mid/late 2021.

Contact the author at stephen.gunnion@proactiveinvestors.com
Serpa has nearly 35 years of experience in the mining industry developing mines and was most recently Director of South America Institutional Affairs for Imerys

Serpa will succeed Arao Portugal as country manager for the Toronto-based companys Brazilian subsidiaries when Portugal retires at the end of September

( ) ( ) announced it had appointed veteran mining engineer Paulo Serpa as its new country manager in Brazil.

Serpa will succeed Arao Portugal as country manager for the Toronto-based companys Brazilian subsidiaries when Portugal retires at the end of September, according to a statement.

Portugal will remain active with the company and serve as special adviser to CEO Mike Mutchler, Amarillo told shareholders.

We expect this to be a smooth transition, Mutchler said in a statement. Paulo will build on the strong foundation set by Arao and lead the construction phase of our flagship Posse Gold Project at Mara Rosa. In addition to Paulo, weve made several other key hires in Brazil, where we are building a strong operating team in anticipation of making a construction decision.

Serpa has nearly 35 years of experience in the mining industry developing mines. He was most recently Director of South America Institutional Affairs for Imerys, a French multinational company that produces and processes industrial minerals, where he worked on 24 industrial mine sites.

On behalf of the Board of Directors and the entire Amarillo team, Id like to thank Arao for his leadership, said Mutchler. Arao was instrumental in acquiring our License to Install for Posse, securing several critical contracts for the developing Posse, and strengthening our team in Brazil. We wish him well in his retirement, even as we continue to access his considerable experience and expertise as we build Amarillo into Brazil's next gold producer.

Amarillos Posse project is on the companys Mara Rosa Property in Goias State. A 2020 definitive feasibility study outlined a resource of 32 million tonnes at 1.1 grams per ton gold for a total of 1.2 million ounces in the high-confidence measured and indicated category. The project is anticipated to produce 102,000 gold ounces per year in its first four years and have an average annual gold production of 84,000 ounces based on an initial 10-year mine life.

Contact Angela at angela@proactiveinvestors.com

Follow her on Twitter @AHarmantas
Falcon Gold (CVE: FG  OTC: FGLDF) CEO Karim Rayani joined Steve Darling from Proactive to share news the company has again added to their portfolio by acquiring land in Newfoundland.

Rayani telling Proactive, this is a significant land package within the Hope Brook Area of Newfoundland. The company has staked a total of 996 claims which amounts to 24,900 hectares and butts up against First Mining Gold, -Benton joint venture, and
Energy Fuels CEO Mark Chalmers said the transaction has all the hallmarks of a true win-win for both parties

CUR will acquire 100% of Energy Fuels Tony M, Daneros and Rim mines in Utah, as well as the Sage Plain property and eight DOE Leases in Colorado

Energy Fuels Inc (NYSEAMERICAN:UUUU) (TSE:EFR) said that International Consolidated Uranium Inc (CVE:CUR) (OTCQB: CURUF) has struck a definitive asset purchase agreement with its subsidiaries to acquire a portfolio of conventional uranium projects in Utah and Colorado.

In connection with the transaction, the companies have agreed to enter into toll-milling and operating agreements, which positions CUR as a potential near-term US uranium producer.

With the toll-milling agreement for production from the projects to be executed on closing of the transaction, CUR will become the only current US uranium developer (other than Energy Fuels) with guaranteed access to Energy Fuels' White Mesa Mill, which is the only permitted and operating conventional uranium mill in the US, said the companies in a joint statement.

Following the purchase agreement, CUR will acquire 100% of Energy Fuels Tony M, Daneros and Rim mines in Utah, as well as the Sage Plain property and eight DOE Leases in Colorado, for the following consideration:

Energy Fuels will receive a payment of US$2.0 million in cash, payable on closing of the transaction;

The issuance of that number of CUR shares that results in Energy Fuels holding 19.9% of the outstanding CUR shares immediately after closing of the transaction;

A payment of CA$3 million in cash on or before the 18-month anniversary of closing of the transaction;

Payment of an additional CA$3.0 million in cash on or before the 36-month anniversary of closing of the transaction;

The payment of up to CA$5.0 million in contingent cash payments tied to achieving commercial production at the Tony M Mine, the Daneros Mine and the Rim Mine.

The operating agreements will allow the projects to continue to be managed by the experienced team at Energy Fuels, ensuring a smooth transition, said the company.

"This transaction has all the hallmarks of a true win-win for both parties. Energy Fuels currently holds the largest and highest quality portfolio of uranium production, development, and exploration projects in the US. The assets we are selling to CUR are proven US uranium mines, and in fact production from these mines since 2006 has accounted for over 1,050,000 lbs of US uranium production, which would rank those mines as fifth among all current uranium producers in the US over those years, Energy Fuels CEO Mark Chalmers said in a statement.

However, because Energy Fuels is focusing its attention on its core projects  the Nichols Ranch and Alta Mesa ISR properties and the Pinyon Plain, La Sal and other conventional properties, we do not believe markets have properly valued the projects within our expansive portfolio of exceptional assets. We believe that, in order to realize the full value of our expansive portfolio, certain assets, such as the projects, can be repositioned to the benefit of Energy Fuels and its shareholders, provided we find the right vehicle to unlock the value of these assets. In this transaction, we believe we have found that vehicle in CUR.

The Energy Fuels boss will join the CUR board once the transacton is done. Chalmers said that he has known the team behind CUR for almost 15 years.

I have watched keenly as they have gained market support for their consolidation strategy. This is why we have structured the transaction to provide Energy Fuels with significant exposure to the future share price performance of CUR through a 19.9% equity interest and speaks to our belief in and our commitment to these assets, said Chalmers.

My joining the CUR board, as well as Energy Fuels' entering into the toll-milling and operating agreements for the projects, should also be strong signals as to how important we view our alliance with CUR for these assets."

Meanwhile, International Consolidated Uranium CEO Philip Williams said his companys strategy has been to acquire uranium projects around the world, create critical mass, and target the acquisition of larger, more advanced projects.

While the recently announced acquisition of the high-grade Matoush Project in Quebec was a big step forward for CUR, today's acquisition and alliance with Energy Fuels represents a giant leap, added Williams.

Contact the author Uttara Choudhury at uttara@proactiveinvestors.com

Follow her on Twitter: @UttaraProactive
Menshevik confectionary whose ex-owner was acquitted of murder declared bankrupt

 RAPSI, Vladimir Burnov

13:05 15/07/2021

MOSCOW, July 15 (RAPSI)  Moscows confectionary Menshevik, whose ex-owner Ilya Averyanov had been acquitted over the 2017 murder of a security guard, was declared bankrupt, according to the Moscow Commercial Court order.

The court based its ruling on a report on the financial standing of the debtor submitted by the bankruptcy commissioner, according to which the properties and assets of Menshevik were insufficient to pay off its debts, and restoration of the confectionarys financial and economic operations was impossible.

The Moscow Commercial Court introduced a supervisory procedure against Menshevik in 2020 after recognizing its debt worth nearly 900,000 rubles (about $12,000 at the current exchange rate) to the applicant, DHA company.

On October 20, 2020, the Supreme Court of Russia upheld acquittal of ex-owner of Menshevik Ilya Averyanov of murder.

On January 29, 2020, jurors acquitted the man of killing a guard during the shooting on the factorys premises in 2017 and beating a passerby, who burnt up poplar wool near the factory in 2016.

Thus, Averyanov was found not guilty of intended infliction of severe bodily harm and murder.

Investigators claimed that on December 27, 2017, a conflict arose between former and current owners of the factory. Ex-owner Averyanov allegedly took out the gun and shot several times, fatally wounding a guard.

The defendant insisted that he used the gun for the purposes of self-defense, and a shot was fired recklessly.
VOA, July 9, 2021

By Gul Rahim Niazman, Roshan Noorzai



Taliban have distributed leaflets, ordering locals to follow strict rules that are similar to those they imposed on Afghans when they last governed the country from 1996 to 2001. Taliban have distributed leaflets, ordering locals to follow strict rules that are similar to those they imposed on Afghans when they last governed the country from 1996 to 2001.

BALKH, AFGHANISTAN - Many Afghans who hoped the Taliban would reform their extreme views amid ongoing talks with the Afghan government and the U.S. troop withdrawal have been disappointed by the new severe restrictions imposed on the local population in some of the districts that they have recently captured.

Several residents of Balkh, a district in northern Balkh province that is located 20 kilometers north of the provincial capital, Mazar-e Sharif, confirmed to VOA that the Taliban have distributed leaflets, ordering locals to follow strict rules that are similar to those they imposed on Afghans when they last governed the country from 1996 to 2001.

They want to impose the restrictions that were imposed on women under their rule, said Nahida, a 34-year-old resident of Balkh district, adding that the restrictions targeting women include not leaving our houses without a male companion and wearing hijab. Before their ouster by the United States in 2001, the Taliban mandated Afghans follow a strict interpretation of Sharia law, forcing women to cover themselves from head to foot and preventing them from leaving their houses without a male companion.

That changed after 2001 when the new Afghan government, supported by U.S.-led forces, introduced laws to encourage more girls to attend school and to have more women participate in the workforce.

Nahida, who requested to be identified by her pseudonym due to safety concerns, said the groups new restrictions will be difficult for women to follow since many of them are the breadwinners of their families and they have to work outside.

Another resident of Balkh, who requested anonymity due to fears of retaliation by the militants, said salons were ordered not to shave or trim beards when the Taliban controlled the district last month.



Public floggingg of a women by Taliban in 2020 (Photo from Social Media) Public floggingg of a women by Taliban in 2020 (Photo from Social Media)

It is possible that they impose more restrictions. In some of the mosques, during the Friday sermons, Mullahs say that the Sharia law should be implemented, another Balkh resident told VOA.

In several districts of Takhar, Badakhshan, and Kunduz province that came under the Taliban control recently, local reports claim the Taliban issued similar restrictions on women and forced men to grow beards.

Violations

The acting U.S. ambassador in Kabul, Ross Wilson, in a tweet on Wednesday, warned that the Talibans growing violence violated human rights and triggered fears that a system this countrys citizens do not support will be imposed.

While no progress has been reported in the intra-Afghan peace talks that started in Doha, Qatar last September, Wilson called on the Taliban to negotiate in good faith and a genuine will.

In a sign of breaking the long stalemate, a Taliban delegation and a group of Afghan politicians met Wednesday in Tehran. In a joint statement, both sides agreed that a peaceful solution should be sought.

Meanwhile, the Afghan forces have vowed to continue their counterattacks to recapture the districts lost to the Taliban.

In a press conference on Tuesday, Afghanistans national security advisor, Hamdullah Mohib said that the security forces had recaptured 14 districts, adding that the government forces will recapture the districts buildings, that have fallen to the Taliban in recent weeks.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) in a statement Wednesday accused the Taliban of forcibly displacing residents and burning their homes in an apparent retaliation for cooperating with Afghan forces.

Not Surprising

Heather Barr, a HRW senior researcher for womens rights in Asia, said that reports about the Taliban recent crackdown on women and media were not very surprising since her organizations investigation has found that the Talibans policies are not that different from what they were in 2001.

It is very concerning indeed for human rights, Barr told VOA, adding that some of these abusive attitudes are actually intensifying as they are feeling triumphant in gaining control of more and more territory.

The watchdog group in a report last year said although the Taliban, at least at the leadership level, have portrayed themselves as having reformed their hardline views, they have continued to impose extreme restrictions enforced by the militants.

This skepticism was also shared by Sher Jan Ahmadzai, the director of Center for Afghanistan Studies at the University of Nebraska.

There is no evidence to substantiate their claims that they have changed their tactics of dealing with the local populace in the areas of their control, said Ahmadzai.

He added that local reports from the areas under the Taliban show the militants have forced residents to feed them and forced the women not to venture out of their houses without their partners or relatives from their families.

It is difficult to confirm such posts by independent organizations because they are not allowed to report from areas under the Taliban openly, Ahmadzai said.

Press Restrictions

Nawbahar, the only FM radio station in Balkh district, was forced to broadcast Talibans Tarani (chants) and anti-government messages instead of music when the militants entered the district last month, according to local journalists.

It is against the freedom of expression, lamented Abdul Aziz Danishjo, a journalist in Mazar-e Sharif, who said the Taliban had forced Nawbahar editor and other staff to go to the radio station and start broadcasting what the Taliban want.

Nai, a local media watchdog, has reported that nearly 20 radio stations have ceased broadcasting in Afghanistans northern provinces due to the Talibans restrictions and ongoing fighting.

Some local journalists view the Taliban crackdown as a major blow to journalism in Afghanistan, a country ranked by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) at 122nd out of 180 nations for violations against journalists.

Mohammad Yaqoob, a local journalist in Balkh province, said the growing violence and Taliban restrictions mean many parts of Afghanistan will be cut off from the rest of the world, making it harder to monitor the human rights violations.

As a journalist, I would say that the Taliban and the government should follow the media laws, Yaqoob said.

Yaqoob added that the warring parties should not impose their views on the local radio stations in the areas that come under their control.

The RSF charges that violence against journalists and media outlets has increased significantly despite of peace talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government.
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The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has accused the Centre of trying "to suppress the voice of the people" by targeting the international communications platform, Twitter, here on Thursday.

Referring to the revelations made by the global media giant in its latest transparency report, NCP National Spokesperson and Minister Nawab Malik flayed the Central government for its alleged attempts to harass Twitter by seeking information from it almost n a daily basis.

"Twitter is a platform where the common people can air their views in a transparent manner. Even in India it is being used in a big way for the public to voice their opinions freely and fearlessly, as it gives them an outlet to highlight injustice," said Malik.

"However, the government of India is scared that it is unable to snatch the freedom of people to speak up because of Twitter. In this country, many things are controlled, there is no platform for people to raise their voice. Twitter is revealing the truth, so the government is harassing it in such a manner," added Malik.

The NCP leader pointed out that if there are fake posts, messages or videos, many laws in the country, including the Information Technology Act, can be invoked to handle them, book them and take action against those indulging in such activities.

His comments came in the wake of Twitter's recent transparency disclosures, claiming that 25 per cent of all requests pertaining to accounts' information originate from India, which is the highest in the world, overtaking the USA which is now relegated to the second slot.
Amid talks of the opposition joining hands to counter Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee plans to go to Delhi later this month to meet the opposition leaders.

Though Banerjee termed it as a normal visit, her proposed visit to Delhi for the first time after her landslide victory in the Assembly polls has triggered speculation over her playing a bigger role in the opposition front in the next general elections.

Answering a question at the state secretariat Nabanna, Banerjee said, "I didn't go to Delhi after the elections. The Parliament session will start soon. The Covid-19 situation is also better. So I will go to Delhi during the Monsoon Session and meet some leaders there."

The Monsoon Session of the Parliament will commence on July 19 and will continue till August 13.

When asked whether she will meet Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, the Chief Minister said, "I shall meet her (Sonia Gandhi). I will also meet some other leaders. I also want to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind, if I get appointment."

Sources in the CMO said that the Chief Minister is likely to go to Delhi on July 25 and her visit might extend for even four days. Sources close to Banerjee also said that apart from Sonia Gandhi, she might meet several opposition leaders like Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, and Aam Aadmi Party chief and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, among others.

The Chief Minister's announcement is even more important because political strategist Prashant Kishor met Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday, besides conducting meetings with Sharad Pawar.

"It is not the right time yet to predict anything, but she (Mamata Banerjee) will surely judge the situation in the national capital. Her visit to Delhi certainly has a political significance," a senior Trinamool Congress leader said.

Talks of an anti-BJP front got revived after leaders of various political parties and prominent individuals congregated at NCP chief Sharad Pawar's New Delhi residence last month.
Nearly half the vaccination centres in Delhi were closed on Wednesday and new vaccinations dropped nearly 50% compared to the previous day, as the state government ran short of supplies again.

Officials warned that the pace was likely to drop further on Thursday.

Just over 64,000 doses were administered on Wednesday at 671 vaccination centres  the city has 1,374 centres in all.

On Tuesday, 129,000 doses were administered.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar told his Chinese counterpart on Wednesday that the relationship between the two countries is being impacted in a negative manner by the existing situation in Eastern Ladakh getting prolonged.

Jaishankar met the State Councilor and Foreign Minister of China, Wang Yi, on the sidelines of SCO Foreign Ministers' meet in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

Recalling their last meeting in Moscow in September 2020, the External Affairs Minister emphasised the need to follow through on the agreement reached then and complete the disengagement process, resolving the remaining issues along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh at the earliest.

"The External Affairs Minister pointed out to the State Councilor that the successful disengagement in the Pangong Lake area earlier this year had created conditions for resolving the remaining issues. It was expected that the Chinese side would work with us towards this objective. The EAM, however, noted that the situation in the remaining areas is still unresolved," said a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs.

Jaishankar recalled that both sides had agreed that a prolongation of the existing situation is not in the interest of either side. It is visibly impacting the relationship in a negative manner, he added.

India emphasised that maintenance of peace and tranquility in the border areas has been the foundation for the development of ties since 1988. The attempts to change the status quo last year that also disregarded commitments under the 1993 and 1996 agreements have inevitably affected ties, Jaishankar said.

"He emphasised that it was, therefore, in mutual interest that the two sides work towards early resolution of the remaining issues along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh, while fully abiding by bilateral agreements and protocols," the statement added.

The two ministers noted the agreement between both sides in the last meeting of the WMCC on June 25, 2021 to hold another round of meeting of senior military commanders. They agreed that this should be convened at the earliest.

The MEA said they also agreed that in this meeting, the two sides should discuss all the remaining issues and seek a mutually acceptable solution. There was also an understanding that both sides will continue to ensure stability on the ground and neither side will take any unilateral action that could increase tension.
In his address at the meeting of the SCO foreign ministers' contact group on Afghanistan in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, Jaishankar also emphasised the need for ensuring that Kabul's neighbours are not "threatened by terrorism, separatism and extremism".

"The challenge is to act seriously and sincerely on these beliefs. Because there are forces at work with a very different agenda. The world is against seizure of power by violence and force. It will not legitimise such actions," Jaishankar said.

He also called for ceasing violence and terrorist attacks against civilians and state representatives and pitched for settling conflict through political dialogue, and by respecting the interests of all ethnic groups.

The EAM said the world, the region and the Afghan people all want an "independent, neutral, unified, peaceful, democratic and prosperous nation".

"Peace negotiation in earnest is the only answer. An acceptable compromise that reflects the Doha process, Moscow format and Istanbul process is essential. The future of Afghanistan cannot be its past," he tweeted.

"A whole new generation has different expectations. We should not let them down," Jaishankar added.

The Doha process, Moscow format and Istanbul process are separate frameworks for dialogue to resolve the conflict in Afghanistan.

Jaishankar is on a two-day visit to Tajikistan on the invitation of Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Muhriddin to take part in the meeting of the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers. The meeting discussed the achievements of the organisation as it celebrates the 20th anniversary of its formation this year.

It will also assess the preparation for the upcoming SCO Council of Heads of States on September 16-17 2021 in Dushanbe and exchange views on the current international and regional issues.
The United Arab Emirates on Wednesday became the first Gulf state to open an embassy in Israel, as its envoy hailed the trade and investment opportunities that closer ties would bring at a flag-raising ceremony also attended by Israels president.

Brought together by shared unease about Iran, the UAE and Bahrain normalised relations with Israel last year under the Abraham Accords crafted by the administration of then-U.S. President Donald Trump.

Sudan and Morocco have also moved to form ties with Israel.

The UAE embassy opening, which is situated in the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, followed the inauguration of Israels embassy in the UAE last month.
Northbrook, IL -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/14/2021 -- The Biometric system market size is projected to grow USD 36.6 billion in 2020 to USD 68.6 billion by 2025; it is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 13.4% during the forecast period. increasing use of biometrics in consumer electronic devices for authentication and identification purposes, the growing need for surveillance and security with the heightened threat of terrorist attacks, and the surging adoption of biometric technology in automotive applications are the major factor propelling the growth of the biometric system market.



COVID-19 Impact on the Biometric System Market



The coronavirus will have an impact on the global supply of biometric systems, which will largely depend on how the situation globally stabilizes and by when the factories start operating in full capacity. The demand for contact-based biometric systems has been affected the most due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even after the pandemic recedes, the demand for contact-based biometric systems is likely to fall drastically to avoid coronavirus spread. Similarly, contactless biometric systems, such as face recognition, iris recognition, and voice recognition, are expected to witness a boost in demand during post-COVID-19.



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Single-factor authentication to lead the biometric system market during the forecast period



Single-factor authentication accounted for a larger market share in 2019, and a similar trend is likely to be observed in the coming years owing to the convenience, cost-effectiveness, and fast responsiveness of the single-factor authentication technique. In this authentication type, biometric technologies such as fingerprint, face, and iris recognition are used prominently. The single-factor authentication method is mainly used in government, travel and immigration, and banking applications. Significant adoption of facial and fingerprint recognition solutions in consumer electronics has spurred the demand for single-factor authentication-based biometric systems.



Hybrid biometric system market is expected to be the fastest-growing segment during the forecast period



The highest CAGR of hybrid biometric systems is attributed to the increasing adoption of efficient and reliable biometrics. Multimodal biometric solutions offer enhanced safety against spoofing or forgery through multi-level authentication. In addition, many countries, such as the US, India, and the UK, have adopted multimodal authentication systems (a combination of two or three biometric modalities, using contact-based or contactless systems) for security checkpoints at country borders due to the heightened threat of terrorist attacks.



Software offering is expected to be the fastest-growing market for biometric system market during the forecast period



Software play a significant role in ensuring the interoperability and compatibility of biometric devices. The adoption of cloud-based services and AI for biometric devices is expected to boost the requirement for associated software to ensure the compatibility of devices and operating systems for different applications. It is feasible for customers to integrate add-on features in existing hardware by updating the software. Software in biometrics systems complement the function of hardware by storing and recalling spatial data; they also allow live data streaming.



APAC to lead biometric system market during the forecast period



APAC is expected to provide lucrative growth opportunities to the players in the biometric system market in the next few years, owing to the rapid economic growth in major countries of this region. China, Japan, India, and South Korea are the key countries in APAC. The growth of market in APAC is also attributed to technological advancements, increased awareness among the masses regarding the use of biometric systems for security purposes, and lowered cost of devices based on these technologies. Moreover, these countries have taken numerous initiatives for the protection of their citizens. In Japan and China, biometric security systems have been deployed at airports, banks, ATMs, government institutes, and other public places.



Key market players



In 2019, Thales (France, www.thalesgroup.com), Safran (France, www.safran-group.com) , NEC (Japan, www.nec.com), ASSA ABLOY (Sweden, www.assaabloy.com), and Fujitsu (Japan, www.assaabloy.com) dominated the global biometric system market.
Northbrook, IL -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/15/2021 -- According to the new market research report "Aircraft Braking System Market by Aircraft Type, End Use (OEM, Aftermarket), Actuation (Power Brake, Boosted Brake, Independent Brake), Component (Wheels, Brake Discs, Brake Housing, Valves, Actuators, Accumulator, Electronics), Region - Forecast to 2026", published by MarketsandMarkets, the market size is projected to grow from USD 10.9 billion in 2021 to USD 13.1 billion by 2026, at a CAGR of 3.6% from 2021 to 2026. The market is driven by various factors, such as rise in demand from OEMs and increasing number of commercial flights.



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The aircraft braking system market includes major players Honeywell International Inc. (US), Meggitt PLC (UK), Safran (France), Crane Co. (US), and Parker-Hannifin Corporation (US). These players have spread their business across various countries includes North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. COVID-19 has impacted their businesses as well. Industry experts believe that COVID-19 has affected aircraft braking system production and services by 710% globally in 2020.



Demand for actuation in braking system will drive the demand for actuators segment



The actuators segment is expected to be the largest market by value. Actuators in braking systems are used to convert the hydraulic fluid pressure into motion. Brake actuators are used to move the piston to apply pressure to the discs together, thus generating friction to stop the aircraft. The majority of brake actuators used on commercial aircraft are hydraulic, although electrically powered electromechanical actuators are also present in the market. Brakes on the Airbus A220 (formerly known as the Bombardier C-series) and the Boeing 787 are actuated electromechanically.



The independent brake segment is projected to witness a higher CAGR during the forecast period



Based on actuation, the independent brake segment is projected to be the highest CAGR rate for the aircraft braking system market during the forecast period. The growth of the independent brake segment of the aircraft braking system market can be attributed to the increasing demand for general aviation and regional aircraft.



The Unmanned Aerial Vehicles segment is projected to witness the highest CAGR during the forecast period



Based on the aircraft type, the unmanned aerial vehicles segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR rate for the aircraft braking system market during the forecast period. UAVs are commonly termed drones and are mostly known for their wide usage in various military missions such as border surveillance. They are also used for mapping, surveying, and determining weather conditions of a specific area. Certain remotely piloted UAVs are designed to operate as loitering munition for defense forces.



Browse in-depth TOC on "Aircraft Braking System Market"



560  Tables

42  Figures

321  Pages



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The OEM segment is projected to witness the highest CAGR during the forecast period



Based on the end use, the OEM segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR rate for the aircraft braking system market during the forecast period. OEMs are responsible for the installation of braking system in an aircraft during the assembly stage and are then made available for delivery to aircraft manufacturers. Over the years, there has been a significant rise in the demand for different aircraft types across regions. According to Airbus, it delivered 863 commercial aircraft to 99 customers in 2019.



The North America market is projected to contribute the largest share from 2021 to 2026



North America is projected to be the largest regional share of the aircraft braking system market during the forecast period. The key factor responsible for North America, leading the aircraft braking system market owing to the rapid growth of the technologically advanced braking system in the region. In North America, the rise in aircraft orders and supplies is encouraging manufacturers of aircraft braking system to increase their sales year on year. The increasing demand for commercial aircraft and the presence of some of the leading players operating in the market, such as Crane Co., Parker-Hannifin Corporation, Honeywell International, Inc, are expected to drive the aircraft braking system market in North America. These players are focusing on R&D to increase their product lines and using technologically advanced systems, subsystems, and other components for manufacturing aircraft braking system.



Related Reports:



Aircraft Landing Gear Market by Type (Main, Nose), Platform (Fixed Wing, Rotary Wing), Application (Commercial, Business, Military), Aircraft Type (NBA, WBA, VLA, RTA), and Region - Global Forecast to 2021



Aircraft Tires Market by Application (Commercial, & Defense), By Aircraft Type (VLA, NBA, WBA & RTA), by Product Type (Radial & Bias), by End User (OEM, Retreaded, & Replacement), by Platform (Fixed & Rotary Wing), and by Geography - Global Forecast to 2020



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Our 850 fulltime analyst and SMEs at MarketsandMarkets are tracking global high growth markets following the "Growth Engagement Model  GEM". The GEM aims at proactive collaboration with the clients to identify new opportunities, identify most important customers, write "Attack, avoid and defend" strategies, identify sources of incremental revenues for both the company and its competitors. MarketsandMarkets now coming up with 1,500 MicroQuadrants (Positioning top players across leaders, emerging companies, innovators, strategic players) annually in high growth emerging segments. MarketsandMarkets is determined to benefit more than 10,000 companies this year for their revenue planning and help them take their innovations/disruptions early to the market by providing them research ahead of the curve.



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Edison, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/15/2021 -- HTF MI Analyst have added a new research study on Title Global Roast and Ground Coffee Market Report 2021 with detailed information of Product Types [, CoffeeBeans, Packaged Coffee Powder], Applications [HotDrinks, Food and Suppliments] & Key Players Such as Eight O' Clock Coffee Company, JACOBS DOUWE EGBERTS, The J.M.Smucker Company, Keurig Green Mountain, Ajinomoto Foods, Haco Asia Pacific, Industria Colombiana deCafe, LUIGI LAVAZZA SPA, Mauro Demetrio, Paulig Group, PEET'S COFFEE & TEA, Strauss, Tres Coracoes Alimentos & Trung Nguyen etc. The Study provides in-depth comprehensive analysis for regional segments that covers North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa with global outlook and includes Clear Market definitions, classifications, manufacturing processes, cost structures, development policies and plans. The facts and data are well presented in the Roast and Ground Coffee report using diagrams, graphs, pie charts, and other pictorial representations with respect to its current trends, dynamics, and business scope & key statistics.



If you are a Roast and Ground Coffee manufacturer and deals in exports imports then this article will help you understand the Sales Volume with Impacting Trends. Click To get FREE SAMPLE PDF (Including Full TOC, Table & Figures):: https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/3213389-global-roast-and-ground-coffee-market-22



Impact Analysis  Global Roast and Ground Coffee Market Research

Analysts at HTF MI constantly monitor the Roast and Ground Coffee industry factors with impacts of current events; with this study an update of how industry players have tackled latest scenario and what key strategies have made significant difference is showcased.



Key Highlights from Roast and Ground Coffee Market Study.



Revenue and Sales Estimation  Historical Revenue and sales volume is presented and further data is triangulated with top-down and bottom-up approaches to forecast complete market size and to estimate forecast numbers for key regions covered in the report along with classified and well recognized Types and end-use industry. Additionally, macroeconomic factor and regulatory policies are ascertained in Roast and Ground Coffee industry evolution and predictive analysis.



Manufacturing Analysis the report is currently analysed concerning various product type and application. The Roast and Ground Coffee market provides a chapter highlighting manufacturing process analysis validated via primary information collected through Industry experts and Key officials of profiled companies.



FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS: In order to better understand Roast and Ground Coffee market condition five forces analysis is conducted that includes Bargaining power of buyers, Bargaining power of suppliers, Threat of new entrants, Threat of substitutes, Threat of rivalry.



Competition  Leading players have been studied from Roast and Ground Coffee Industry depending on their company profile, product portfolio, capacity, product/service price, sales, and cost/profit.



Demand & Supply and Effectiveness  Roast and Ground Coffee report additionally provides distribution, Production, Consumption & EXIM** (Export & Import). ** If applicable



Have Any Query? Ask Our Expert @: https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/3213389-global-roast-and-ground-coffee-market-22



Geographically, the following regions together with the listed national/local markets are fully investigated:

- APAC (Japan, China, South Korea, Australia, India, and Rest of APAC; Rest of APAC is further segmented into Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, New Zealand, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka)

- Europe (Germany, UK, France, Spain, Italy, Russia, Rest of Europe; Rest of Europe is further segmented into Belgium, Denmark, Austria, Norway, Sweden, The Netherlands, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania)

- North America (U.S., Canada, and Mexico)

- South America (Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Rest of South America)

- MEA (Saudi Arabia, UAE, South Africa)



The Latest Trends, Product Portfolio, Demographics, Geographical segmentation, and Regulatory Framework of the Roast and Ground Coffee Market have also been included in the study.



Market Growth by Applications: HotDrinks, Food and Suppliments



Heat map Analysis, 3-Year Financial and Detailed Company Profiles of Key & Emerging Players: Eight O' Clock Coffee Company, JACOBS DOUWE EGBERTS, The J.M.Smucker Company, Keurig Green Mountain, Ajinomoto Foods, Haco Asia Pacific, Industria Colombiana deCafe, LUIGI LAVAZZA SPA, Mauro Demetrio, Paulig Group, PEET'S COFFEE & TEA, Strauss, Tres Coracoes Alimentos & Trung Nguyen



Market Growth by Types: , CoffeeBeans, Packaged Coffee Powder



Book Latest Edition of Study Global Roast and Ground Coffee Market Study @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buy-now?format=1&report=3213389



Introduction about Global Roast and Ground Coffee



Global Roast and Ground Coffee Market Size (Sales) Market Share by Type (Product Category) [, CoffeeBeans, Packaged Coffee Powder] in 2021

Roast and Ground Coffee Market by Application/End Users [HotDrinks, Food and Suppliments]

Global Roast and Ground Coffee Sales (Volume) and Market Share Comparison by Applications

Global Global Roast and Ground Coffee Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2025)

Roast and Ground Coffee Competition by Players/Suppliers, Region, Type and Application

Roast and Ground Coffee (Volume, Value and Sales Price) table defined for each geographic region defined.

Global Roast and Ground Coffee Players/Suppliers Profiles and Sales Data

Key Raw Materials Analysis & Price Trends

Supply Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers, Industrial Chain Analysis

........and view more in complete table of Contents



Check Complete Report Details @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/3213389-global-roast-and-ground-coffee-market-22



Thanks for reading this article; HTF also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research according to clientele objectives. Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report like North America, Europe or Asia
Manchester, UK -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/15/2021 -- The laundry industry is quite a large one, catering to the need of hospitality businesses, private individuals, as well as those of other people who might be in need of their services. Not unusual is the effort of commercial laundry services, which have farther reach and influence, delivering excellent laundry services to the corporate and business world. The United Kingdom is not left out of the reach of these services, as The Linen Group, a family-owned and commercial laundry outfit, is a highly renowned business, regarded by many, as an excellence-driven laundry service provider in Manchester.



Responding to a query, The Linen Group's spokesperson commented, "Getting the laundry services done for our clients help them in more ways than one. It helps them focus on other things that help to scale their work, while we get their laundry done; they can also always get to improve on other processes. In Manchester, we have carved a niche for ourselves in this regard, and our clients are ever-ready to keep working with us, also referring others to do the same. Without mincing words, we have been providing Manchester hoteliers with impeccable, dependable, competitively, bespoke laundry solutions since 1987".



As one of the leading laundry solutions in Manchester, The Linen Group are no doubt, specialists in providing bespoke hotel laundry solutions to hotels or hospitability businesses of different sizes and strengths, be it national chain hotels, or family-owned boutiques. They are confident of providing their clients with transformative commercial laundry services that work, and meet the demands of their customers. The Linen Group has over 35 years of laundry experience, and they are the first Manchester laundry service to use innovative RFID technology. Their automation laundry system is also largely renowned and respected.



The spokesperson further added, "We do not have customers, we have partners; and we ensure that we have a mutually beneficial relationship that guarantees your success, while we also reserve a respected position as a laundry service provider with a difference! Our excellent customer service helps us to preserve long-lasting relationships; we have supplied one of our clients for over 28 years, and we keep doing all we have to do to make sure that we keep at our best. The Linen Group's laundry is equipped with the latest machinery which generates water, chemical, and energy efficiencies, and these savings are passed directly on to our customers".



As one of Manchester's best laundry service, The Linen Group offers Manchester hoteliers a laundry service that is local, transparent, green, and cost-efficient. They are conscious of their clients' needs, and they do all their best to meet it in record time.



About The Linen Group

The Linen Group is a family-owned commercial laundry service that provides quality services to hotels in Manchester. They are regarded as one of the best laundry services in Manchester with their intelligent linen laundry service.



Contact Information:



The Linen Group.

Unit 4, Shentonfield Road

Manchester, M22 4RW

Phone: 0161 428 8099

Email: info@thelinengroup.co.uk

Website: https://www.thelinengroup.co.uk/
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Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. Trace begun at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Exceptions.pm line 129 HTML::Mason::Exceptions::rethrow_exception('Can\'t call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.^J') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 160 HTML::Mason::Component::run_dynamic_sub('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7fc0039f32c0)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7fc003a26378)', 'main') called at /var/cache/mason/obj/1784076917/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj line 17 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 138 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7fc0039f32c0)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1305 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1295 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 958 HTML::Mason::Request::call_next('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7fc003a26378)') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html line 149 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 138 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7fc003749208)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1303 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1295 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 484 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 484 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 436 HTML::Mason::Request::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7fc003a26378)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7fc003a26378)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7fc002d943e0)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7fc0039dc3c0)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7fc0039dc3c0)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0
Amateur radio tower: Judge says Framingham zoning board of appeals 'erred' A judge overturned a ZBA decision and ruled a magnificent 80-foot high amateur radio tower can be erected in the City of Framingham



The Framingham Source story says:



The Framingham Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) will discuss the 2020 court case involving amateur radio operator Galina Filippova versus the ZBA, which ruled in favor of Filippova, at its meeting on Wednesday, July 14 at 7 p.m. in the Memorial Buildings Blumer Community Room. The public can attend the room in person or via Zoom.



Judge Howard Speicher ruled against the Framingham Zoning Board of Appeals, and reinstated Filippovas building permit, which had been previously revoked by the ZBA.



In 2019, Galina Filippovas husband Mikhail Filippov KD1MF was issued a permit by the board to build an 80-foot amateur radio tower on the couples property, located at 273 Prospect Street. But once Filippova began to pour the foundation for the project, neighbors voiced complaints, and the ZBA voted not to issue the permit.



Read the full story at

https://framinghamsource.com/index.php/2021/07/13/judge-says-zba-erred-amateur-radio-tower-can-be-erected-in-framingham/



Eastern Massachusetts ARRL report

https://ema.arrl.org/2021/06/24/framingham-amateur-misha-filippov-kd1mf-wins-in-ma-land-court-decision/



"Attorney Fred Hopengarten K1VR literally wrote the book on how to get a personal radio tower approved by your local government"

https://ema.arrl.org/2019/12/12/neighbors-are-fighting-a-framingham-mans-ok-to-erect-an-80-foot-ham-radio-tower/
Baku, July 15, 2021 (SPS) - The South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Naledi Pandor on Wednesday underlined the right of the Saharawi people to self-determination in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter and its relevant resolutions carrying decolonization.

Speaking at the Midterm Ministerial Conference of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAP), Ms. Pandor said: As an NAP, we should not be indifferent to the plight of those calling for decolonization, build a state and enjoy human rights ". "Our solidarity and support for the peoples of Palestine and Western Sahara must therefore give us courage and impetus and ensure that their struggle remains ours, in accordance with the principles of Bandung and the United Nations Declaration on the granting of independence to the countries and to the colonial peoples ", underlined the head of the South African diplomacy.

The Conference, which was held by videoconference under the chairmanship of Azerbaijan, with the participation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the National Community Abroad, Mr. Ramtane Lamamra.SPS

125/090/TRA
EQS Group-Ad-hoc: Inficon Holding AG / Key word(s): Conference

INFICON to Publish its Second Quarter 2021 Results on Thursday, July 29, 2021



15-Jul-2021 / 17:41 CET/CEST

Release of an ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.



Corporate Contact

Matthias Trondle

Chief Financial Officer

+423 388 3510

matthias.troendle@inficon.com





Bad Ragaz/Switzerland, July 15, 2021 INFICON Holding AG (SIX Swiss Exchange: IFCN) looks forward to welcoming you to the Media/Analyst Conference on INFICON's second quarter and half-year 2021 results. INFICON will host a Web Conference via Microsoft Teams on Thursday, July 29, 2021 at 09.30 a.m. CEST. The presentations and the following question and answer session will be in English. You may join the presentation using the following links http://bit.ly/IFCN_WebConference https://ir.inficon.com/conference-calls-or-webcasts/ Please make sure that you have access to Microsoft Teams. During the Web Conference, participants will first be in a listen-only mode. After the prepared remarks, Management will take questions via the voice or chat functionalities provided. The Web Conference will be recorded and later archived in the investors' section of the INFICON website. On July 29, 2021, INFICON will issue a press release at 07:00 a.m. CEST on the second quarter and first-half year 2021 results. At the same time, the accompanying presentation visuals and the full half-year report will also be available for download in the Investors' section of the INFICON website, www.inficon.com. Communication Calendar The communication calendar of INFICON is continuously updated and available on online in the Investors' section of the INFICON website, www.inficon.com. E-Mail Alerts To automatically receive notification via e-mail of the latest financial information from INFICON, sign-up for news in the Investors section of the INFICON website. 07:00 a.m. CEST: Publication of Media Release, Half-Year Report, and Presentation

09.30 a.m. CEST: Web Conference via Microsoft Teams ABOUT INFICON

INFICON is a leading provider of innovative instrumentation, critical sensor technologies, and advanced process control software that enhance productivity and quality in sophisticated industrial vacuum processes. These analysis, measurement and control products are essential for gas leak detection in air conditioning/ refrigeration, and automotive manufacturing. They are vital to equipment manufacturers and end-users in the complex fabrication of semiconductors and thin film coatings for optics, flat panel displays, solar cells and industrial vacuum coating applications. Other users of vacuum based processes include the life sciences, research, aerospace, packaging, heat treatment, laser cutting and many other industrial processes. We also leverage our expertise in vacuum technology to provide unique, toxic chemical analysis products for emergency response, security, and environmental monitoring. INFICON is headquartered in Switzerland and has world-class manufacturing facilities in Europe, the United States and China, as well as subsidiaries in China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Korea, Liechtenstein, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, the United Kingdom and the United States. INFICON registered shares (IFCN) are listed on SIX Swiss Exchange. For more information about INFICON and its products, please visit www.inficon.com. This press release and oral statements or other written statements made, or to be made by us contain forward-looking statements that do not relate solely to historical or current facts. These forward-looking statements are based on the current plans and expectations of our management and are subject to a number of uncertainties and risks that could significantly affect our current plans and expectations, as well as future results of operations and financial condition. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

End of ad hoc announcement
Lake Charles, LA (70615)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms in the morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. High 89F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms likely. Low 73F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.
We created beach patrols that never existed before and we ended up saving hundreds of lives, Jim McCrady said. My greatest satisfaction as a lifeguard is the impact you can have helping the public. Being able to pass down this legacy to my brothers as well as my nephew and son was really important. Its a really good feeling. Having the ability to work with my family is so meaningful. It was really a unique experience. I got to see them every day, which was really cool.
I would like them to know that they are terrible people, that they have to live with this in their heart. And one day theyre going to stand before a maker and they will have to explain what theyve done, and He will be their judge, not me. God will judge them.
Additional officers were called to the school at around 7:30 a.m. Thursday to help get the 17-year-old boy under control, according to a Pembroke Pines police spokesperson. The school is located at 12800 Taft Street in Pembroke Pines.
He said that at about $25 million, nearly three-quarters of the citys budget is earmarked for the sheriffs contract. Cooper City is currently paying the Sheriffs Office $24.2 million for both police and fire services and that amount is expected to rise to $25.3 million in October.
There are things we can do and unfortunately cannot do, said Suarez, according to NBC 6. We are not an agency of foreign policy. We dont have tanks, we dont have bombs, we dont have planes. We dont have any of those things. What we can do is advocate and what we need to do is talk to each other, not at each other.
To be very clear, we do not think those protesting for Cuban freedom in Miami, Tampa or anywhere else should be charged with a felony for blocking traffic. We generally dont think they should be charged at all except in extraordinary circumstances. Were glad theyre exercising a freedom granted to them by the U.S. Constitution.
Finally, the people have had enough and are protesting from east to west, in every province. We need to urge our government and particularly, President Joe Biden, to take decisive action in support of the Cubans. Cuba is 90 miles from our country and has caused serious difficulties for the United States throughout the world, but particularly in Venezuela, Nicaragua and Peru. Our government must act decisively in support of the Cuban people who have always been strong allies of the U.S. Although Cubans can protest, the Castros stripped them of all weapons in 1960. These brave Cubans need our help. President Biden should form a coalition of governments throughout the world who will support the Cuban people in this dramatic and hopeful moment.
The Civil Guard has opened an investigation after 200 kilos of hashish was found in a helicopter in Torremolinos.

The discovery was made on 2 July in the mountains behind the Costa del Sol town, and police arrested one man.

The Guardia Civil believe that the helicopter belonged to a network of drug traffickers, transporting hashish from Morocco to Spain by air.

This would be nothing new, in fact, at the beginning of this month the Guardia Civil smashed a drug-trafficking network that used this same modus operandi, which resulted in eleven arrests and a thousand kilos of hashish being seized. The group had built a hidden heliport in a remote area near Casares, in Malaga province.
Spain's King Felipe VI has joined a tribute in Madrid that serves as a harsh reminder of the Covid pandemic that has, already, claimed almost 100,000 lives in the country - among them, more than a hundred health workers.

The tribute to coronavirus victims in the Plaza de la Armeria of the Royal Palace in Madrid this Thursday (15 July) comes a year after the first State act, and was specially dedicated to health personnel, who since February 2020 have been in the frontline of the battle against the virus.

During the ceremony Spains Grand Cross for Civil Merit was posthumously awarded to more than 120 doctors, nurses or orderlies who lost their lives doing their job.

A year ago we gathered in this same place to honour the victims of the coronavirus. I said that it would be a day that would leave a mark on us. Today we return to remember those who have not been with us since then and show our deep respect to the health personnel who, at the beginning of the crisis, tried to control a virus for which there was no known remedy and there was no vaccine," said Felipe VI.

Ministry of Health data shows that more than a hundred health professionals have died in this pandemic, and about 130,000 have been infected with Covid-19 during a pandemic that, despite the advances in vaccines, still continues to hit, especially the younger age groups.
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Arab, AL (35016)

Today

Showers and thunderstorms. High around 75F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms likely. Low 68F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
Students at Texas A&M have access to a variety of disability resources throughout campus in order to aid in accessibility for all.
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MBABANE  Acquisition of shares in Eswatini Mobile Limited by the Public Service Pension Fund (PSPF) has been approved by the ECC.

The Eswatini Competition Commission (ECC) examines merger notifications in order to make a determination on the effects of such transactions on competition and then either gives conditional approval, approval with conditions or prohibits the transactions based on the outcome of the analysis. According to the ECC 2021/22 first quarter report, the acquiring firm is PSPF, which is a Fund established in terms of the Public Service Pensions Order of 1993 and it is based at Sixth Floor Ingcamu Building, Mhlambanyatsi Road, Mbabane.

The Fund is constituted by all civil servants who are its members. PSPF is a defined benefit Fund established for the management and administration of pensions for government (public sector) employees. The assets of the Fund consist of contributions made by its members and government (as their employer) as well as from yields from investments of the Fund. The primary nature of PSPFs business is that of a pension fund. At a secondary level and as part of PSPFs investment portfolio, the acquiring firm has an ownership stake in various business enterprises actively engaged in real estate leasing, hospitality and forestry.

registered

The target firm is Eswatini Mobile Limited and their registered office is at Madlenya House, First Floor, Corner Gwamile and Mdada Street, Mbabane, Eswatini. Eswatini Mobile carries on the business of mobile telephone network services provider, retailers and agents for the purpose of trading in and resale of mobile telephones and such related gadgets. The goods comprise mainly of mobile telephones, modems for the provision of internet connections and such related goods. The main business is the provision of a mobile telephone network service provider. In reaching the decision, the Commission considered the products of the firms and concluded that the relevant market was the provision of mobile telephone network services and related business in Eswatini.

There are overlaps between the activities of the merging firms due to the fact that the acquirer is already a shareholder in the target. Pursuant to the implementation of the proposed transaction, PSPF will acquire control over Eswatini Mobile with 48.8 per cent shareholding.

Post-merger, the market shares in the relevant market, market concentration, countervailing power and barriers to entry will not be affected. The transaction is unlikely to result in the substantial lessening or prevention of competition, ruled Commission.

Therefore, the transaction was approved without conditions. Meanwhile, in another notable transaction, the Commission also approved without conditions the acquisition by Wellom Investments Proprietary Limited of 55.52 per cent shares held by businessman Moses Motsa and 10.03 per cent shares held by North Wind Trading 196 CC in Lidwala Insurance Company Limited.
The photograph on the front page of the Times on June 14, 2021 showed a large gathering of people having a good time at one of two music concerts. In the photo only one person wore a mask.

In the two functions, thousands were reportedly not wearing masks. Seven days later  a typical time it takes for contact to transfer into coronavirus infection  we had a surge in infection rates. The organisers deserve large portion of the blame; pure selfishness. Then, a week ago, a stronger surge in infections, coinciding with big gatherings in the recent riots. Sounds like the India scenario of January 2021. With South Africa well be creating our own COVID-19 brand at this rate.

Dangerously

But the current troubles in this country and now South Africa have made COVID-19 dangerously irrelevant to many people. Can you believe that? But, despite these other worries of violence and destruction, as well as food and fuel shortages being on our minds at present, we cannot neglect to take care. Im willing to bet my last cent (getting close) that this spike were now in was avoidable. Its human behaviour, not some irreversible wave like a tsunami. The countrys leadership is exemplary in its public display of wearing masks but itll have no impact unless masking and distancing are very strictly enforced countrywide. Unfortunately, semi-masking and non-masking are the new normal. Not easy; the mask is uncomfortable and the unrelenting enemy of the spoken word.

Apart from the loss of loved ones, the crippling aspects of COVID-19 are mental fatigue and financial loss. The most worrying today is not what we know; its what we dont know. Especially not knowing when it will end. Well it wont end. These viruses dont; they fade as a result of herd immunity, though a more accurate term would be herd protecto-immunity. This comes through two phenomena: protection through vaccination, and immunity through having caught it and given your body the opportunity to create immunity to the more severe effects of the virus. That ironically is the upside of having more infections  more people getting immunity without needing a vaccine.

Risk

What you hope is that the number of deaths can be minimised; thats the bottom line. Apart from the recent blip weve done well there. But you cannot go flat out to allow everyone to get infected because the more people the virus infects, the more chances it has to mutate. This can increase transmission risk, decrease the effectiveness of vaccines, and make the pandemic harder to control. And you would be shunned by every country in sight. And even the vaccination part has question marks attached to it. A one-off? No, most likely a periodic re-vaccination until the virus fades into a relatively weak state. In the UK now theyre already talking about a booster for existing vaccinations.

We must get the vaccinations done as fast as possible. One day you feel encouraged, for instance, by the minister of Healths most recent statement. And then, once one or two promised dates glide silently by, your doubts re-emerge, especially reading that approval by the Ethics Research Committee is responsible for the delay in delivery of the 500 000 AstraZeneca doses. Yet you then read a plausible series of explanations from the committee; another unresolved talk-show. And when you read the minister of Healths statement of June 22, 2021 its a little worrying that we will be receiving the doses in trenches. Have things got that bad? Before I start digging could I please get clarification on that one? Oh, of course  tranches. But as I retreat penitently, asking forgiveness for that light, but irreverent, jest to relieve the tension, may I suggest that our health workers and services personnel across the country deserve medals for what theyve gone through and achieved.

Raids

Hardly anyone alive today in the generally peaceful parts of the world can remotely visualise what it felt like to be in a war where a bomb could take your house  and even you  at any moment. And there were many enemy raids, mainly in Europe and the Far East in World War II. Just like pandemic waves, you didnt know when the next one was coming and how severe it would be. Folk came out of it, though part of the post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)  they called it shell-shock in those days  must surely have been seeing your neighbour a millionaire through selling arms to the government while youd lost both yours fighting for the same government. A bit like Eswatini experiencing a huge building boom in the middle of a pandemic while the private sector  the frontline artillery  takes an enormous hit, with many losing businesses and jobs. With COVID-19, violent death on the streets and imminent shortages creating the triple-whammy, mid-2021 is the most challenging ever for emaSwati.
SITEKI  Chiefs and Members of Parliaments (MPs) together with Lubombo Regional Administrator (RA) Themba Msibi on Tuesday held a meeting at the RAs offices.

However, there was a notable absentee who happened to be Siphofaneni MP Mduduzi Gawuzela Simelane. The media was barred from being part of the meetings agenda. Last month, the meeting was indefinitely postponed by the RA following the demise of Othandweni Umphakatsi Chief Maphilingo Shongwe. The RA together with chiefs under this region had summoned Simelane subsequent to his stance of openly being amongst the leaders of the call for the election of a prime minister (PM) in Parliament.

Lubombo RA, Msibi could not be reached for comment as his cellphone rang unanswered when called yesterday.

This publication wanted to ascertain the agenda of the meeting and why Simelane was not part of it. However, Regional Secretary (RS), Jane Mkhonta confirmed the meeting, stating that it was a routine meeting where chiefs and MPs met to discuss issues that bother the region. There was nothing serious that was discussed. I can only confirm that there was a meeting to that effect, she evasively said. Chairperson of the Lubombo MPs forum, Dvokodvweni MP Mduduzi Magagula was a bit coy to divulge the agenda of the meeting. I can confirm that there was a meeting between chiefs and MPs in the presence of the RA. But I left early as I was not ok and I even submitted my sick-sheet, he diplomatically said.

Uploaded

Called to question his absence in the meeting, Siphofaneni MP, Simelane said he saw the notification informing them to attend the meeting after being uploaded to their Whatsapp group but he did not attend because he was busy. I was busy and couldnt attend. I saw the notification informing us about the meeting on our Whatsapp group but had to attend to other pressing issues which needed my attention, he said. Malindza Umphakatsi Chief Ndlondlo Tsabedze asked not to comment about the meeting. The chief stated he has not been given a mandate to do so. It was a meeting between chiefs and MPs and I cannot comment about the issues discussed. Yes, we did met but I am not mandated to talk about its agenda, he said. Meanwhile, chiefs and the RA had summoned Siphofaneni MP, Simelane into a meeting which was prompted by his purported stance in supporting the issue of an elected PM. The postponement of the meeting took place during the midst of the countrywide petitions delivery campaigns by the youth to their respective constituencies MPs.
MBABANE  Some motorists have been found to have contravened curfew regulations due to the fuel woes currently being experienced in the country.

The motorists have since raised concerns over the curfew hours not being favourable to them, more especially during the current fuel shortage crisis in Eswatini. The fuel shortage that hit the country saw fuel stations not functioning normally. Over and above, the curfew hours added to the motorists frustrations as after queueing for hours, they would sometimes be forced to return home without having refuelled their vehicles due to the curfew hours. Eswatini curfew hours start at 6pm to 5am and is one of the longest curfews in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Region.

Curfew

Government announced the curfew as a means to minimise the spread of COVID-19. Some of the motorists who were interviewed yesterday morning at Mbabane Galp Filling Station at Eveni and in the Mbabane Central Business District (CBD), said they started queueing from as early as 4am which was within the curfew hours. They said they had no choice, but to bend the regulations to get fuel. They said they wanted to be early so that when the stations started operating at 6am, they would be the first in the queue. Yesterday, Galp Filling Station at Eveni, Galp Filling Station in the city centre, Engen Filling Station at Woodlands and Puma Filling Station, were the only filling stations fuelling cars in Mbabane. However, some of the filling stations had to close early as they ran out of fuel. At the Engen Filling Station, which is adjacent to Galp, only diesel was available.

Minister of Natural Resources and Energy Peter Bhembe acknowledged the complaint about the curfew hours effect on motorists during the present situation. He said government had been engaging with relevant stakeholders in finding a solution to the fuel predicament and crafting a way out of the curfew hours. He said they had a meeting on Tuesday where the issue of the curfew hours was also deliberated. He said the ministry would soon announce the changes that they hoped would assist emaSwati not to continue suffering that much when it came to fuel challenges. He said in their meeting, they addressed a number of issues which included the fuel issues within government and said all the changes would be detailed and published in due course.

Bhembe said as the country had resolved to source fuel from Mozambique, he was hopful that would be of great help in ensuring that pumps didnt run dry. On Tuesday, the minister urged the public not to resort to panic buying of fuel. He assured the public that in as much as the service stations would not have fuel at the same time; the country would not entirely run dry. The minister said despite the disruption, oil companies, working with all relevant stakeholders, were making means to ensure that there was fuel in the country. He added that he was hopeful that the situation would improve each day as companies were employing alternative measures.
The National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) today (July 14) celebrated a significant achievement in its ongoing sustainability journey after being awarded The Middle Easts Best Bank for Corporate Responsibility by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2021  the global financial sectors most esteemed accolades across the region and the world.

NBBs nomination came as a result of the significant strides made by the bank to integrate ESG principles into its framework, the positive initiatives delivered over the past year, as well as its continued market leadership and ongoing efforts to operate sustainably.

The bank was evaluated based on a set of criteria that measured NBBs efforts throughout the year, assessing merits that fell under specific categories, including, contributions towards the community and individuals during Covid-19, Heritage Preservation, Enhancing the Entrepreneurship Ecosystem, Diversity and Inclusion, Talent &Training, and Corporate Responsibility as part of ESG.

NBB has set many firsts in its quest for sustainability excellence as it strives to conduct business in a responsible manner, ensuring that its approach to sustainability is aligned to the UN SDGs, the Bahrain Bourse voluntary ESG Guideline, and Bahrains Economic Vision 2030.

The banks sustainability framework contains seven pillars: economic growth, responsible banking; serving customers; nurturing the workforce; community investment; preserving natural resources; and governance and ethical behavior.

Commenting on the award win, Chairman Farouk Yousuf Khalil Almoayyed said: "It gives us great pleasure to receive this honour from Euromoney, recognising NBBs efforts as a leader in the field of sustainability."

"We are very proud of this accomplishment which stands testament to the efforts exerted by the Bank to transform NBB into an institution focused towards the future and a responsible, and conscientious entity that operates with a sustainable framework for generations to come. Today, NBB is reaping the rewards of its strategic shift as an ESG-driven, digitally capable, responsible and transparent banking institution with a unique value proposition for everyone it serves," remarked Almoayyed.

"I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Banks Board and management for their invaluable support and guidance, acting as role models and allowing the Bank to excel, and above all, to our customers for their unwavering loyalty and the people of NBB whose efforts have paved the way for the Banks numerous milestones including this regional accolade," he added.

Since 2019, NBB has been steadily introducing initiatives in line with its established ESG strategy and implementation roadmap, and has been paving the way to a complete integration of ESG guiding principles into its operations.

With corporate responsibility as the driver of its strategy, the bank focused on strengthening its departments to maintain business sustainability and are well-positioned as a market benchmark in terms of compliance with regulations, corporate governance and risk management, by placing a foundation for the involved committees to further drive its future ESG plans.

Further commenting on the Euromoney awards, CEO Jean-Christophe Durand said: "It is an honour for us at NBB to receive such recognition at a local and regional level. This award underlines the significant progress we have made in executing and bringing to life our responsible banking strategy, in line with our role as a national leader and avid contributor to the kingdoms long-term socio-economic wellbeing."

"The accolade underscores our achievements to-date and further pushes us to operate as part of Team Bahrain, adding value to society, and delivering on our brand promise to Enrich the Lives of Generations for years to come through our commitment to a more sustainable, transparent method of operation in the Kingdom and the region," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
The UAE, represented by the Ministry of Finance (MoF), has signed an agreement to promote and protect mutual investments with Hungary.



The agreement aims to enhance economic cooperation, provide an optimal investment environment, and secure a comprehensive balance between rights and obligations between investors and the host country, thus stimulating business initiatives for sustainable economic development.



Younis Haji Al Khoori, Undersecretary of Ministry of Finance, signed the agreement on behalf of the UAE, while His Excellency Osama Naffa, Hungarian Ambassador to the UAE signed it on behalf of the Hungarian side, in the presence of senior officials from MoF.



The agreement protects both nations' investments from all non-commercial risks including nationalisation, confiscation, judicial seizures, and freezing; and it creates a conducive environment for mutual investments and licensing. It also covers transfer of profits and revenues in convertible currency and provides investors a just and immediate compensation for their investments in case of their appropriation for the public interest in accordance with the approved law and provided that the compensation value is in accordance with the market value of the investment prior to its seizure.



Younis Haji Al Khoori reaffirmed the UAE's keenness to protect the UAE investments abroad and provide the optimal economic environment to attract foreign investments in accordance with a legal and legislative system that is in line with international best practices. He said: Agreements on protection and promotion of investments provide the legal framework and grant national and most-favoured-nation (MFN) treatment in the management, maintenance and expansion of investments, with emphasis on non-interference in all investment-related subjects.



He added: Hungary is one of the UAE's leading economic partners in the Central and Eastern European Countries (CEECs). This agreement underscores both nations' efforts to bolster bilateral relations, enhance cooperation in the economic and financial sectors, and encourage the growth of mutual investments.- TradeArabia News Service
Abengoa, an international provider of sustainable solutions for the infrastructure, energy and water sectors, has announced that it has produced the first permeate, that is, the first desalinated water, at the Rabigh 3 desalination plant that it is building in the Saudi city of Rabigh.

The engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract for this project was awarded to a consortium of Abengoa, Sepco III (Power China) and Sidem (Veolia) in 2018. Acwa Power, a leading Saudi developer, investor and operator of power generation and water desalination plants, is the majority owner of the Rabigh 3 desalination plant. The commissioning of this plant is scheduled for the first quarter of 2022. Upon completion of the project, the desalinated water will be supplied to the state-owned Saudi Water Partnership Company (SWPC). Set to become the largest reverse osmosis (RO) desalination plant in Saudi Arabia, the Rabigh 3 facility is also a model of innovation and sustainability in its design and construction, which allows it to reduce the energy consumption and increase plant availability, said a statement from Abengoa.

This important milestone was achieved by the leading Spanish group during the operational tests as part of the commissioning phase of the 600,000-cu-m-per-day plant and represents a further step towards its commercial operation.

The Rabigh desalination plant will guarantee the supply of drinking water to more than three million people in the cities of Makkah, Jeddah and Mastorah.

So far, Rabigh 3 has exceeded 4.5 million safe man hours, achieving the highest levels of safety standards and meeting the established health and safety objectives, stated Abengoa.

Acwa Power was recently recognised with the prestigious Makkah Excellence Award in the Economic Excellence category for this mega project.

The award, presented on June 10 by the Governor of Makkah Province Prince Khalid bin Faisal Al Saud to representatives of Acwa Power, reinforces the company's commitment to delivering essential water supply reliably and responsibly to communities in Saudi Arabia.-TradeArabia News Service
The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), the economic development arm of the UAE, signed an agreement with Rwanda to provide a concessionary loan valued at $15 million to finance the RamburaNyange section of the Rubengera-Muhanga road project.

The financed project will support Rwanda governments strategic transportation infrastructure development programme - a core component of its broader national economic transformation strategy.

The loan agreement was signed by ADFD Director General Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi and Ambassador of Rwanda to the UAE Emmanuel Hategeka in the presence of ADFD Deputy Director General Khalifa Abdullah Al Qubaisi and several senior officials from both sides.

The Rwanda road rehabilitation project of RubengeraMuhanga covers 61 km connecting the countrys Southern and Western provinces. In addition to major repairs, it includes expanding the width of the road from six metres to 7.5 metres while adding shoulders and rebuilding water drains.

ADFD will support development of a 22-kilometre roadway running between the towns of Rambura and Nyange.

ADFD Director General Al Suwaidi said: Improving road infrastructure is a key pillar of the continued economic development and social growth strategy of Rwanda. While it brings numerous benefits, one major impact is that it will better connect trade routes across multiple Central African nations, a region that represents growing international trade potential for the UAE.

"ADFDs support of this strategic project will directly benefit the Rwandan people while also contributing to economic growth in the African region and expand trade opportunities.

Rwanda Ambassador Hategeka said: Improving the Rwandan road infrastructure was a key pillar of the success of the Rwanda Vision 2020 and will continue to be as we implement Vision 2050. Strengthening the connection of our rural and urban centres contributes to many aspects of our national economic and social development agenda, touching everything from small and medium enterprises, trade, travel and tourism to food security.

"We have a long history working in co-operation with Abu Dhabi Fund for Development and the United Arab Emirates and greatly value their support on this important infrastructure development project.

The project is expected to reduce travel times between cities, increase road safety and improve access to employment opportunities, healthcare and education facilities for residents. The improved roads will also better accommodate heavy trucks and promote an increase in cross border trade among neighbouring countries, including Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

This is the second project ADFD has supported in Rwanda in a relationship that started in 1981 with the AED14m construction of the Kigali International Airport in the nations capital city.-TradeArabia News Service
Egypts biggest food discovery and ordering platform elmenus said it has secured new funding from three new investors, based in the Mena region and North America.

Fawry Group - the renowned digital transformation and e-payment platform  is leading the investment from Egypt following its new strategy to take minority stakes in fast-growing Egyptian technology businesses. It is being joined by another Egyptian group Marakez - a leading real estate developer, in the project, said a statement from the company.

The investment from North America has been received from New York-based hedge fund Luxor Capital Group.

As well as investing, Fawry will work closely with elmenus to develop innovative solutions to benefit restaurants and consumers, it stated.

On the key investment, CEO Ashraf Sabry said: Fawry is looking forward to its journey with elmenus, working closely with the executive team and entering many ventures together. By this investment, we show our desire to not only be a payment catalyst but to be a strategic partner to elmenus, its customers, restaurants and their riders."

"The Egyptian food space has high growth potential, with technology disrupting the status quo, as customers needs in food service provision rapidly change," he added.

elmenus - which now has over 1.5 million monthly users - is a comprehensive platform for restaurant information and food discovery in Egypt, and its aim is to personalise food recommendations at a dish level. By the end of 2021, elmenus expects to empower 12,000 restaurants with new data and tool offerings to help them scale their businesses, across 20 Egyptian cities, said a top official.

Investment has also been received from New York-based hedge fund, Luxor Capital Group, which has $11 billion of assets under management. elmenus is its first investment in the Mena region, remarked its CEO Amir Allam.

Attracting new investment from Fawry, Luxor Capital and Marakez - following the endorsement of industry veteran, David Buttress (the former CEO of global food ordering firm, JustEat, who was appointed to the board earlier this year) - validates elmenus unique strategy.

"We are accelerating the adoption of online ordering by users, while enabling restaurants with new verticals - to help them scale. This funding demonstrates the investors strong belief in our position in Egypt, and our capability to dominate the market, Allam added.-TradeArabia News Service
Saudi's sovereign wealth fund Public Investment Fund (PIF) along with Cosco Shipping Ports has jointly bought a 40 per cent equity stake in Red Sea Gateway Terminal Limited (RSGT) for $280 million.

The investment will help to transform RSGT into both a regional and global logistics hub in line with PIFs mission of unlocking new economic opportunities locally and globally.

RSGT will benefit and enhance its value proposition with the support of and a leading global ports operator like CSPL, which they will bring new momentum to the growth of RSGTs business volume.

The RSGT location is on the main East-West trade routes, with close proximity to the main cargo end destinations on the West Coast of Saudi Arabia and captures significant intra-Red Sea trans-shipment cargo volumes.

Both new shareholders will help drive future growth on seaside and landside logistics.

As the economic engine of Vision 2030, PIF is driving the diversification of Saudi Arabias economy. The investment in RSGT for a 20 per cent stake come in line with its 2021-2025 strategy that focuses on 13 key priority sectors, including transport and logistics.

Saudi Industrial Services Company, the kingdom's leading strategic investor in ports and terminals, logistics parks and services, and water solutions, played a key role in the transaction with the divestment of its 21.2% direct equity stake in RSGT to PIF and Cosco. For the deal, Sisco will be receiving a total gross proceeds of SR556.5 million ($148 million). The application of the proceeds, which is currently under review, will support the companys strategic objectives of enhancing shareholder returns and optimising its portfolio. In addition, LogiPoint has also divested its 4% direct equity stake in RSGT and will receive gross proceeds of SR105 million ($28 million). With this deal, Siscos effective shareholding reduces from 60.6% to 36.36%, but the group will continue to consolidate RSGT from an accounting perspective.

RSGT officially declared the 40% equity sale today (July 15) following the completion of all necessary conditions and obtaining all regulatory approvals.

The transactions imply an enterprise value for RSGT of $880 million and a total gross inflow of equity value for the founding shareholders of $280 million.

As per the deal, the founding shareholders will reduce their combined shareholding to 60%.

CEO Jens O. Floe said: "This is a significant milestone for RSGT, demonstrating both our strength as a business and the confidence which the industry and investment community have in our strategic planning and implementation. Working closely with PIF and CSPL, we will accelerate our shared vision, further strengthen our customer offering, and elevate our mandate to meet the increasing demand for terminal and logistics services."

"RSGT will continue to focus on developing a niche emerging market operator with a keen focus on ports in the Red Sea and East Africa," he added.

Having commenced operation in 2009, RSGT is located at the world-class Jeddah Islamic Port, a crucial logistics hub serving as a global trade nexus linking Asia, Europe, and Africa, as well as an increasingly important regional business center.

Moreover, RSGT continues to bring excellence to the trade with the 30-year concession (BOT agreement) with Saudi Arabian Ports Authority (Mawani)  announced in late 2019 and commenced in April 2020.
Dana Gas' H1 2021 collections from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), and Egypt, have increased 106% year-on-year to $185 million (AED678m), the highest level in more than five years.

Dana Gas, which owns a 35% stake in Pearl Petroleum, saw its share of collections from sales of condensate, LPG and gas in the KRI jump 85% to $87 million in the first half 2021 as compared to $47 million in the same period the previous year.

The company received cash dividends of $48.3 million from Pearl Petroleum over this period. For the same period, the Dana Gas share of Pearl Revenue was $87 million, EBITDA $74 million, Net Income $57.4 million, Cash Balances $61 million and Gross Debt $93 million. The company share of total KM 250 expansion CAPEX is $220 million, which will be funded at the Pearl level. Dana Gas share of Pearl Petroleum production for the first half 2021 averaged 150 MMscf/d of gas, 5,250 bbls/d condensate and 350 MT/d of LPG.

In Egypt, Dana Gas collected $98 million during H1 2021, compared to $43 million received in the same period of 2020, representing a 128% increase.

Dr Patrick Allman-Ward, CEO of Dana Gas, said: This is one of our best collection periods in the past several years, driven and supported by the strong rebound in oil prices. The respective governments of both the KRI and Egypt are meeting their payment obligations, ensuring the petroleum industry investors are receiving their current monies on time and catching up on overdue payments. This provides us with the confidence to reinvest in our operations, notably in the KRI where our expansion plans are well underway. We are in the process of constructing our new KM250 gas train which is on track for first gas in Q2 2023. In Egypt, we continue to work diligently to maintain production and to prepare for drilling our exciting exploration well in our offshore Block 6 Concession Area which holds material potential of over 20 tcf of gas resources. -- TradeArabia News Service
Egypts Nile Air has launched two new weekly flights between Al Ain and Cairo. The inaugural flight recently landed at Al Ain International Airport (AAN), owned and operated by Abu Dhabi Airports.



Francois Bourienne, Chief Commercial Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports, said: We are pleased to welcome two new weekly flights between Al Ain and Cairo, which strengthens our connectivity with the Egyptian capital and facilitates the travel journey of passengers between the UAE and Egypt. The introduction of the new flights comes as part of the expansion of Al Ain International Airport and the introduction of new routes, to increase our airlines network and offer our passengers the best travel experience.



Nile Air CEO, Captain Mohamed Sadek, said: It has been just over five years since we first started flying between Cairo and Al Ain, UAE, and despite the massive impact of the pandemic affecting travel, Nile Air remains committed to operating to Al Ain, preserving the important relationship between United Arab Emirates and Egypt.



Outbound flights will depart from Cairo International Airport on Mondays and Fridays at 15:40 LT and land at Al Ain International Airport at 21:15 LT. Return flights will depart from Al Ain International Airport on Mondays and Fridays at 22:15 LT, landing in Cairo International Airport the following day at 00:05LT.  TradeArabia News Service
British Airways said it has teamed up with AirPortr to create new convenient fast bag drop areas before heading to the departures concourse at its London flagship Terminal 5 at Heathrow airport.

Starting from July 19, British Airways passengers travelling from T5 will be able to drop off and check in their luggage with partner AirPortr as soon as they step off the Heathrow Express.

The new fast bag drop service is free of charge to customers who have already checked in at home.

AirPortr also offers customers the opportunity to have their luggage collected and checked in from their home or office up to 24 hours before their flight, at rates from 19 ($26.2) onwards.

According to BA, with the first drop-off point planned at the Heathrow Express train platforms, customers will be able to quickly and securely drop-off their luggage at peak times, before travelling bag-free straight through to security.

AirPortrs team will ensure that once collected, bags are sealed and monitored throughout the delivery process.

Passengers will also be able to track their luggage online from the moment it leaves their doorstep, or at the T5 key access areas, right up to the bag being loaded onto the aircraft. Customers using the services also receive digital bag tag receipts.

Director of Customer Experience Tom Stevens, said: "Ahead of July 19, BA has been busy investigating and trialling ways to ensure that we can offer our customers the smoothest journey through the airport possible."

"We believe this contactless initiative with AirPortr allows our customers to avoid baggage check-in queues and move through the airport without the hassle of carrying luggage, as well as offering the reassurance that we are doing everything we can to ensure the safe delivery of their bags from doorstep to destination.," he added.

Randel Darby, CEO and Founder of AirPortr Technologies said: "Were proud to be able to play our part in helping British Airways and its customers with the restart of international travel this summer."

"Seamless, contact-free journeys through the airport are in everyones best interests and removing bags from the equation makes this possible for many more people," stated Darby.

"As the specialist in this space, were excited to be working with British Airways once again to lead development of innovative new baggage solutions, for the benefit of customers travelling in a post-pandemic world," he added.

As well as the AirPortrs luggage service, British Airways also offers a special twilight baggage drop service the night before travel from Heathrow Terminal 5, when customers are able to deliver their bags to the airport terminal between 4 and 9pm the day before they travel.

"BA continues to explore how it integrates other technologies to further streamline the customer experience, including trialling digital travel apps to ensure customers meet the entry requirements for their destination before arriving at the airport," said Stevens.

"Customers can currently use VeriFLY on all flights to the US, Canada and France as well as on all inbound flights. The airline has also recently announced its involvement in IATAs Travel Pass," he stated.

"The digital travel solution will begin on British Airways flights from Heathrow to Geneva and Zurich," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
As part of his working visit to Balkan province, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov took part in the groundbreaking ceremony for a new international airport in the village of Jebel, as well as in celebrations on the occasion of the opening of the White Yurt of Turkmen building in the city of Balkanabat.

Speaking at the ceremony of starting the construction of a new air harbor, the head of state noted that the new international airport with the total area of 275 hectares would be able to service 100 passengers per hour. According to the project, the airport complex will feature a number of facilities, including passenger and cargo terminals, a control center, a rescue and fire service building. There will be also built a modern 3200-meter long runway, two taxiways and a parking lot for six aircrafts and four helicopters.

According to the established tradition, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov gave a symbolic start to construction by throwing the first piece of concrete into the foundation of the new airport to the applause of the audience. Other ceremony participants followed the example of the head of state.

 TURKMENISTAN.RU, 2021
New Delhi/Dushanbe, Jul 12 (UNI) Foreign ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) began arriving in the Tajik capital Dushanbe for meetings that would focus on the situation in Afghanistan in the wake of the US pullout and the Taliban taking control of more territories.

Tajikistan is chair of the eight-nation grouping this year that comprises Russia, China, India, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan.

Beside the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers meeting Tuesday, the grouping's top diplomats are also scheduled to attend the SCO-Afghanistan Contact Group meeting.

They will exchange views among them and their Afghan counterpart on promoting regional security and stability, advancing the process of peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan, and deepening cooperation between the SCO and Afghanistan.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will participate in the confabulations.

The ministers at their July 13-14 engagement will also consider a draft plan of joint action to facilitate Afghanistans social and economic reconstruction, said Russias Special Presidential Envoy for SCO Affairs Bakhtiyer Khakimov.

"Within the SCO framework, we plan to discuss another initiative put forward by Uzbekistan, which is a draft plan of joint action to help Afghanistans social and economic reconstruction," Khakimov told TASS.

"We believe that such a document should be worked out by all the ministries and agencies concerned and approved, for instance, at the level of heads of government. It is crucial to draft a serious and solid document," said the Russian Foreign Ministrys Ambassador at Large.

Khakimov pointed out that the SCO countries have multiple economic projects for cooperation with Afghanistan and are currently discussing ideas of how to rebuild old infrastructure.

He drew attention to the fact that about 160 facilities were built in Afghanistan with the assistance of the erstwhile Soviet Union, most of which were operational at the time of the Soviet troops withdrawal from the country.

"Now there are ideas to reconstruct and develop them. Taking into regard that a variety of bilateral projects are being implemented by Russia, China, India, Uzbekistan and other SCO countries, why not put them under the SCO auspices?" Khakimov added.

The Dushanbe meeting will consider several important documents for subsequent adoption in the SCO Council of Heads of State in September this year

UNI SRJ SHK2106
Taliban say participants of Doha talks failed to agree on ceasefire 19 Jul 2021 | 11:13 AM Doha, Jul 19 (UNI/Sputnik) The delegations of the Afghan government and the Taliban movement (banned in Russia) have been unable to agree on a ceasefire during the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha or release of imprisoned Taliban members, Mohammad Naeem, the spokesman for the Taliban's political office in the Qatari capital, said after the two-day talks. see more..

Participants of Doha talks agree on need to reach compromise - Communique 19 Jul 2021 | 11:02 AM Doha, Jul 19 (UNI/Sputnik) The delegations of the Afghan government and the Taliban movement (banned in Russia) have agreed to reach a compromise that benefits all Afghans and is based on the principles of Islam, according to a communique that was read out by Abdullah Abdullah, the head of the Kabul delegation and chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation, at a press conference on Sunday. see more..

Another three cases of COVID-19 detected among people involved in Olympics - Reports 19 Jul 2021 | 10:53 AM Tokyo, Jul 19 (UNI/Sputnik) Three more people involved in the Summer Olympics have tested positive for the coronavirus, the Kyodo news agency reports citing the Organizing Committee. see more..

Distrust in Japanese government grows ahead of Olympic Games - Survey 19 Jul 2021 | 10:51 AM Tokyo, Jul 19 (UNI/Sputnik) The rating of Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Sugas government has dropped to a record low of 31 percent ahead of the Summer Olympics, according to a new survey released by the Asahi Shimbun newspaper on Monday. see more..
28th Workshop on Space Technology for Socio-Economic Benefits: "Space Exploration - A source of inspiration, innovation and discovery" In partnership with the International Astronautical Federation (IAF)

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 22-24 October 2021, in conjunction with the 72nd International Astronautical Congress Hosted by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre VENUE: Dubai World Trade Centre, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Please check this website regularly for updated information.

Applications deadline: 31 August 2021 - OPEN

Introduction

The United Nations, through its Programme on Space Applications implemented by the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, and the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) are co-organizing the Workshop on Space Technology for Socio-Economic Benefits on the theme "Space Exploration - A source of Inspiration, Innovation and Discovery" to provide space emerging countries with capacity building opportunities in using space science, technologies and applications for space exploration in support of sustainable economic, social and environmental development and on the role of industry.

The Workshop will be held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from 22 to 24 October 2021 in conjunction with the 72nd International Astronautical Congress (IAC), and it will be the 28th in the series of such workshops.

Workshop Objectives

The Workshop will provide a forum for discussion on space science, technologies and applications for space exploration in support of sustainable economic, social and environmental development and as a source of inspiration, innovation and discovery. Considering the direct and/or indirect relevance of space to all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the workshop will address the specific elements of SDG 4 (quality education), SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth), SDG 10 (reduced inequalities), SDG 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure), in addition to SDG 17 (partnerships for the Goals). The Workshop will serve as a platform to ensure inclusive development in the areas of space technologies taking people, students, private sectors, researchers, academia, innovators and other actors on board in bringing benefits of space exploration to the end users.

The main objectives of the Workshop are to:

Raise awareness about the international and national entities, space agencies, industry and civil society activities related to Space Exploration Raise awareness about planetary protection concepts and guidelines Raise awareness about capacity-building efforts on space exploration and discuss synergies and common areas of work Promote and discuss inclusiveness on space exploration Raise awareness on the efforts of the international space community on how space exploration and innovations can trigger inclusiveness through new partnerships involving space emerging nations and industries Bring together policy- and decision-makers, and the research and academic communities to help integrate space into policy and the decision-making process

Presentations made during the Workshop will be published on the website of the Office for Outer Space Affairs to increase awareness about the capabilities and benefits of space technology applications. The report of the Workshop and its recommendations will be distributed to the participants and the space technology user community.

Programme



Opening session: Covering the background and the objectives of the workshop.

Session 1a: Space Exploration for All - National and International Perspective

Space exploration activities have peaked in recent years. This journey of space exploration is not limited anymore to the developed nations. Thanks to an inclusive approach implemented by space-faring countries, several developing and space emerging nations are also delving into space exploration. The session will present space exploration efforts by the international and national entities, space agencies, industry and civil society and reveal the latest and future approach towards space exploration

Session 1b: Space Exploration for All - Industry Perspective

Space exploration activities have peaked in recent years. This journey of space exploration is not limited anymore to the developed nations. Thanks to an inclusive approach implemented by space-faring countries, several developing and space emerging nations are also delving into space exploration. The session will present space exploration efforts by the international and national entities, space agencies, industry and civil society and reveal the latest and future approach towards space exploration

Session 1b: Space Exploration for All - Civil Society Perspective

Space exploration activities have peaked in recent years. This journey of space exploration is not limited anymore to the developed nations. Thanks to an inclusive approach implemented by space-faring countries, several developing and space emerging nations are also delving into space exploration. The session will present space exploration efforts by the international and national entities, space agencies, industry and civil society and reveal the latest and future approach towards space exploration

Session 2: Planetary protection

Space exploration aims also to give answers to some of the fundamental questions that we are posing today. Is there life in other celestial bodies of the Solar System? Was there life? Planetary protection aims at protecting locations where life could have existed or exists today. This session will also cover the protection mechanism in place for returning samples to Earth through examples.

Session 3: Capacity-Building for Space Exploration

This session will cover activities to develop capacity in space exploration. It will showcase national, regional and international projects and initiatives supporting the development of skills, infrastructure and capabilities related to space exploration.

Session 4 (Panel discussion): Opportunities for space emerging countries to join efforts in space exploration

Selected members from previous sessions of the Workshop

Closing session: High level closing remarks

Breakout sessions

Breakout interactive sessions will be organised on specific topics to get contributions from participants on the objectives of the workshop. The topics for the breakout sessions are:

Forum on the opportunities related to space education and capacity-building; UNOOSA's Access to Space for All initiative; and Forum on space for youth - innovative ideas on space exploration.

Registration

Interested parties are requested to apply through this link.

The deadline for applications is 1 September 2021.

Working Language

The working language of the Workshop will be English. All participants are required to have good English language skills.

Sponsorship

The Office for Outer Space Affairs of the United Nations and IAF are responsible for organizing the Workshop. Sponsorship of the workshop is still open to other interested entities. Interested parties may contact Mr. Jorge Del Rio Vera, United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs.

Expected Participants

The Workshop is being planned for a total of 100 participants including, engineers, innovators, educators, and policy- and decision-makers and senior experts from the following groups: international, regional, national and local institutions, United Nations agencies, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, research and development institutions, and also from industry. Participants should be in senior managerial or decision-making responsibility at governmental agencies, national and regional institutions, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations or industry. Applications from female applicants are particularly encouraged.

Participants funded by the Office might be eligible for a waiver on the IAC 2021 registration fee of the IAC.

Financial support

Within the limited financial resources available, a limited number of selected participants will be offered financial support to attend the workshop. This financial support will defray the cost of travel (a round trip air ticket - most economic fare - between the airport of international departure in their home country and Dubai, UAE) and/or the room and board expenses for the duration of the workshop. The co-sponsors of the workshop will jointly select participants on a competitive basis. Successful applicants will be notified of the outcome within two weeks after the deadline.

Life and Health Insurance

Life/major health insurance for each of the selected participants is necessary and is the responsibility of the candidate or his/her institution or Government. The co-sponsors will not assume any responsibility for life and major health insurance, nor for expenses related to medical treatment or accidents. Please pay attention to the online application form when registering for the Workshop.

Contact Information

For additional information on the Workshop programme, please contact: Mr. Jorge Del Rio Vera or Ms. Hazuki Mori, United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs.

The focal point for IAF is Ms. Isabella Marchisio
Commencement of Legislation to Permit Abortion

Further to the result of the referendum on abortion, the Hon Samantha Sacramento MP, as the Minister with responsibility for justice, has appointed today, July 15th, as the date that the Act comes into force in order to permit abortions to be carried out by Gibraltar Health Authority doctors at St. Bernards Hospital in certain, tightly defined circumstances.

Further to the commencement of the legislation, the Gibraltar Health Authority will commence provision of an abortion service which will include abortions up to the 12th week of gestation in cases where the continuance of the pregnancy would involve risk, greater than if the pregnancy were terminated, of injury to the physical or mental health of the pregnant woman. Later abortions will also be possible under the Act where the termination is necessary to prevent grave permanent injury to the physical or mental health of the pregnant woman; or the continuance of the pregnancy would involve risk to the life of the pregnant woman, greater than if the pregnancy were terminated; or if there is a substantial risk that the foetus is suffering from a fatal foetal abnormality.

The service will be provided by the GHAs Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at St. Bernards Hospital, strictly within the scope of the new law.

In providing this holistic service, the Gibraltar Health Authority will ensure that abortion care is not just about ending the pregnancy but that it is also about supporting the women involved whether they decide to request an abortion or decide not to do so. Support will be offered and made available to those who wish to take it up, before or after an abortion.

The service may be accessed by women direct, by calling a new number that has been set up for this purpose which is a confidential direct line with a voice mail and call back facility or, if the woman prefers, by GP (or other healthcare professionals) referral.

Women accessing the service will be offered non-judgmental medically accurate information, an optional cooling-off time and will also be offered non-directional counselling by the GHA mental health services. If, following the consultation, the woman decides to not request an abortion she will be referred for antenatal care and offered such support as she requires.

If, following the consultation, the womans choice is to continue to request an abortion it will (in non-emergency cases) be for two Gibraltar Health Authority doctors to be satisfied, in good faith that the case falls within the law. If the doctors so certify the most appropriate method of termination will be discussed with the woman. Counselling and support will be available.

The Minister for Health, Care, Justice and Equality, the Hon Samantha Sacramento MP, said: Although some may disagree with the result of the referendum, the result was clear and it imposed a duty on me to commence this legislation within 28 days. Before doing so I met with healthcare professionals within the GHA to ensure that a safe, non-judgmental, confidential and holistic service is available to women who seek abortions and that such service is undertaken at St Bernards Hospital strictly within the framework set out in the law. There is a strong emphasis in the pathways on therapeutic support being made available by GHA mental health services upon referral at any stage for those who may wish to avail themselves from this. I am now assured that this is all in place and as such have commenced both the legislation, in my role as Minister for Justice, and the service, as Minister with responsibility for Health. Training has already been undertaken by clinical professionals in the GHA to ensure that all services are seamless and coordinated.

I have also met and consulted with representatives of the Gibraltar Pro Life Movement with a view to formalising a partnership in the support that they can offer the community through the charity Carelink Gibraltar.

I hope that the sensitivity of the non-judgmental and non-directional service to be provided will give women who come into contact with it with all relevant information and options available to them allowing them to make the right choice for themselves as to whether or not to request a termination and the support they need regardless of what decision they make.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the professionals at the GHA who have been involved in ensuring that the services have been set up to be delivered safely and in such a timely manner.
The World Customs Organization (WCO), with the support of integrity experts from the Mauritius Revenue Authority and Turkey Customs Administration, has successfully delivered an integrity development workshop for the benefit of the State Customs Services of Turkmenistan. The workshop was held online over three days from 7 to 9 July 2021, with the participation of more than 30 Customs officers from various operational structures of headquarters and regional Customs offices. The mission was conducted with the financial and technical support of the WCO Regional Office Capacity Building for Europe region.

The objective of the mission was to support the Turkmenistan Customs in further improvement of integrity development strategies in Customs and meeting international commitments in the area of fighting corruption. The workshop participants were updated with the latest WCO tools and instruments on integrity and given highlights on the importance of implementing the WCO Revised Arusha Declaration on Good Governance and Integrity in Customs.

Customs officers discussed latest anti-corruption trends, explored psychological and behavioral insights in support of anti-corruption strategies, and outlined the importance of enhancing transparency measures and effectiveness of the internal control function, including co-operation and information exchange between Customs and national anti-corruption authorities. The training exercises also included activities on integrity self-assessment, managing conflicts of interest, corruption risk mapping and analysis.

The workshop participants separately stressed the role of the Revised Kyoto Convention in supporting anti-corruption strategies and enhancing efforts towards efficient and modern Customs procedures adapted to the international trade environment. Having entered into force on 3 May 2021, the RKC provisions have been actively taken up for implementation by the State Customs Service. It was particularly emphasized that the RKC key elements which include the application of simplified procedures in a predictable environment, the optimal use of information technology, the utilization of risk management for efficient control purposes, a strong collaboration with trade and other stakeholders, considerably contribute to the success of anti-corruption strategy. The WCO noted a significant progress of Turkmenistan in its efforts to adapt its procedures to international standards, which is exemplified by the countrys accession in June 2021 to the Customs Convention on Containers, 1972 and to the Convention on Customs Treatment of Pool Containers Used in International Transport (1994).

The WCO looks forward to continuing its cooperation with the Turkmenistan Customs to further strengthen its integrity agenda. For more information, please, contact: capacity.building@wcoomd.org, integrity@wcoomd.org.
Fort Polk, LA (71446)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms in the morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. High 86F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms likely. Low 71F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
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Man Arrested After Fleeing, Fighting Police

By West Kentucky Star Staff





PADUCAH - A Tennessee man is in custody after fleeing from police and then fighting with officers during his arrest on Wednesday.According to the Paducah Police Department officers were called to a home on Old North Friendship Road, where a woman told them she had asked the man, 24-year-old Daytrien Hunt of Milan Tennessee, repeatedly to leave the home and that he refused.Officers say Hunt told them he would leave to go to the home of another friend nearby on Old Friendship Road. While they allowed Hunt to retrieve his things, officers learned Hunt had two outstanding bench warrants. When Hunt was told he was under arrest for the warrants, officers say he dropped his things and fled on foot.After losing sight of Hunt during the chase, officers were able to locate the home Hunt had originally told them he would go to. After getting permission to search the home officers say they found Hunt under a bed holding a pair of scissors to his neck. He then scuffled with officers, causing a slight head injury to one officer before being subdued and arrested.After the incident police say they found marijuana and a marijuana grinder while searching the property Hunt abandoned.Along with being arrested on the two bench warrants for failure to appear, Hunt now faces charges of second-degree fleeing or evading police, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting arrest, and third-degree assault on a police officer.
Two Arrested on Parole Violations After Complaint

By West Kentucky Star Staff

PADUCAH - A complaint of a suspicious vehicle on Monday ended with two people being arrested for parole violations with one now facing drug charges according to the Paducah Police Department.Police say officers were called about 12:30am Monday to the area of Husbands and 11th streets were they found a car matching the description of a suspicious vehicle. They say the driver of the car, 29-year-old Kelly Johnson of Louisville, told them she did not have a drivers license and a computer check then revealed a warrant charging her with parole violation.Police said they also ran a check on the passenger in the car, 20-year-old Corey Copeland of Paducah, and found that he also had an outstanding warrant charging him with parole violation.Officers searched the vehicle and allegedly found a syringe, a small pipe commonly used to smoke marijuana and a white crystal substance and a brown substance in a contact lens case. Officers say the brown substance was determined to be methamphetamine.Johnson and Copeland were both arrested on the warrants, while Johnson was also charged with first-degree possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving with a suspended or revoked operators license.
Authorities Search for Suspect in Recent Thefts

By West Kentucky Star Staff

WESTERN KENTUCKY - A Wickliffe man already facing numerous theft-related charges is wanted again in connection with two more recent thefts.On July 4, Ballard County deputies responded after two vehicles were seen leaving Grassy Lake Farms on Barlow Road.Deputies stopped one of the vehicles driven by Josh McClain, who admitted to driving onto the private property.While questioning McClain, K9 Kony reportedly alerted to the presence of items containing suspected methamphetamine.McClain was arrested and taken to the Ballard County Jail.The next day, deputies learned two chainsaws had been reported stolen from Grassy Lake Farms.Deputies said McClain admitted to stealing the chainsaws. They also located Katey Hargrove of LaCenter, owner of the second vehicle, and she reportedly admitted to having the stolen chainsaws. She was arrested and later released.Authorities obtained an arrest warrant for McClain on burglary charges, but he had already bonded out of jail.Deputies got consent from Hargrove to search her home for McClain, but deputies said he fled out of the rear window.Later Hargrove was allegedly seen attempting to dispose of items containing methamphetamine. She was arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance, tampering with physical evidence, and fleeing or evading police.After searching the area for about four hours, McClain was arrested but bonded out soon after.On July 8, police searched a home on County Farm Road. Deputies said McClain had several items stored at the house, including a toolbox that was reported stolen.McClain was charged with possession of the stolen items and arrested again on July 10, but was released the same day.A joint investigation with the Carlisle County Sheriff's Office has identified McClain as a suspect in two more recent thefts.Anyone with information on McClain's whereabouts is asked to contact law enforcement.
Caldwell Deputies Rescue Woman in Flooded Jeep

By West Kentucky Star Staff

CALDWELL COUNTY - A woman was rescued from flash flooding in Caldwell County after several inches or rain over the weekend.Deputies responded to Enon Road Sunday morning when a woman said her vehicle had been swept off the road and she couldn't open the door because the it was wedged between two trees. She also couldn't roll down her windows due to wet electrical components.Pennyrile Central Dispatch pinpointed the woman's exact location and a deputy arrived to find a Jeep almost completely submerged. He attached a tow strap to himself and waded about 40 feet into the water, then broke a window to help the woman out of the vehicle. The deputy attached the tow strap to her and another deputy helped pull them to safety.
Grants to Benefit Western Kentucky Riverports

By West Kentucky Star Staff

Owensboro Riverport Authority

Eddyville Riverport and Industrial Development Authority

Hickman Fulton County Riverport Authority

Paducah-McCracken County Riverport Authority

Louisville-Jefferson County Riverport Authority

WESTERN KENTUCKY - Gov. Andy Beshear announced Thursday awards for critical repairs and equipment replacement at several western Kentucky riverports.The $500,000 in funding is in the form of grants to be matched by the authorities that operate the riverports.The awards, recommended by the Kentucky Water Transportation Advisory Board and administered by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, will fund five projects at the following five riverports:$34,807 toward purchase of a compact track loader for daily handling of bulk products. The new loader will be used on the new spud barge for marine construction activities and will be one of three loaders used for daily operations.$126,500 toward repair of the main loading dock to improve safety and prevent issues caused by corrosion of the steel components. The project will involve replacing eroded dock tieback rods, installing new whalers and steel plates on the dock, grouting to fill voids and installing new precast concrete fenders.$136,265 to replace a 40-year old front-end loader with a newer model used to load and unload bulk materials between trucks and barges. The loader is essential to material handling operations.$23,625 to purchase a clamshell bucket used to transfer bulk products. This will replace one of two aging clamshell buckets that require frequent maintenance. The new equipment will bring reliability, eliminate lost time due to repairs and improve safety for the machine operator.$178,803 toward construction of a 1,775-foot rail line to bypass an outer rail loop in a high traffic area. The new rail infrastructure will improve safety and allow rail traffic to move more efficiently in and out of the port.The 2021 Kentucky General Assembly appropriated the funding for the grants, and riverports applied for the grants to the Water Transportation Advisory Board. The Board includes seven industry members appointed to serve a four-year term by Gov. Beshear to advise on matters related to water transportation. Duties range from evaluating riverport grant requests to recommending action to optimize waterway and riverports for future economic growth. Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) staff provides technical support.KYTC Secretary Jim Gray noted that the Commonwealth has a comprehensive transportation system comprising multiple modes."Kentucky's riverports play a vital role in the flow of freight across our waterways," said Secretary Gray. "These funds will go a long way to upgrade daily operations and spur economic opportunities."
Murray Schools Release Back-to-School Information

By West Kentucky Star Staff

MURRAY - The Murray Independent School District has released the 2021-2022 Back to School fee dates and information for each of their respective schools: Murray Elementary, Murray Middle, Murray High, and Murray Pre-school Head Start.The district also reminded families that Governor Andy Beshear lifted the mask mandate in public settings throughout the Commonwealth on June 11, so students, staff, and the public are not required to wear masks while on district property, transportation, or activities. However, anyone may choose to wear a mask if they prefer.July 27 - Fee Day - 7:30-12:00July 27 - Volunteer Training 12:15 @ MES GymnasiumJuly 27 - New Family Orientation  5 p.m.July 27 - Kindergarten Social  6 p.m.July 28 - Supply Pick-up - 11a.m.-1p.m.July 29 - Front Porch VisitsAug. 2 - Back to School Night4:45 - 5:30 - Kindergarten5:30 - 6:00 - 1st Grade6:15 - 6:45 - 2nd Grade7:00 - 7:30 - 3rd GradeAug. 5 - First Day for Students$30 fee is required on fee day (This fee covers Science & Social Studies Curriculum Supplements, Destiny, Assessments and Accelerated Reading (AR) ).Tuesday, July 274:00  6:00 5th Grade Back to School Fee Night5:30  7:00 7th Grade Back to School Fee NightWednesday, July 283:00  5:30 6TH Grade Back to School Fee NightThursday, July 293:30  6:30 4th Grade Back to School Fee Night6:00  7:30 8th Grade Back to School Fee Night6:30  7:15 Parent Volunteer Training w/Sherry Purdom in the MMS LibraryAugust 5, first day of classes for students.$30 fee (Please be prepared to pay your fee at the assigned date/time. This fee covers the cost of computer technology, computerized instructional programs, locker maintenance, grade level activities, science and art programs.).Student schedule pick-up must include fee payment. All student fees are $125 and may be paid at pick-up OR through "My School Bucks" app.Monday, July 26 (Please enter at Sycamore Road entrance).Seniors and Juniors from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.Students may also pay for school parking tags as well for $10 per year. Those must be paid separately.Tuesday, July 27 Sophomores 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (also any upperclassman unable to come on Monday)"Tiger Night"- 4 to 6 p.m. for any families grades 10-12 to visit MHS to meet teachers, walk schedules, etc. *may include freshmen student families who cannot attend Thursday evening but they should pay their fee and pick-up schedule when they arrive.Thursday, July 29Freshmen - Orientation from 2:30-4 p.m.Students are encouraged to come and meet teachers, tour the building, meet staff in a fun orientation to Murray High School.Parents can drop students at "M" entrance and return at 4 p.m. for the evening Tiger Night below."Tiger Night"- 4 to 6 p.m. for predominately freshmen families to have a specific evening to meet staff and learn about Murray High. * Freshmen parents unable to attend are encouraged to come on Tuesday, the 27, and families unable to attend Tuesday, may attend Thursday's "Tiger Night".August 5, first day of classes for students.Murray Preschool Back to School/Meet the Teacher will be Friday August 6. Letters are currently being mailed to parents, explaining which school the child will be attending with time and place of event.MISD 2021-2022 Volunteer ProgramThe 2021-2022 MISD Volunteer Program will resume and all training dates have been scheduled.All MISD volunteers are required to attend yearly volunteer trainings, and also have a current approved state background check on file. (While, background checks are good for five years, there is a suggested $10 fee for new and updated background checks).There are twelve volunteer trainings provided to begin the school year. After these trainings, an updated on-line training will be provided through our MISD Volunteer page website. However, the online training will not be available until after in-person trainings are conducted. If you seek to volunteer quickly in any capacity, it is recommended to attend one of the below trainings.Tuesday, July 27 @ 12:15 MES GymThursday, July 29 @ 6:30 p.m. MMS LibraryThe following dates will be @ MISD Central Board Office-Board Room at 208 S. 13th Street in Murray:Tuesday, August 10 at 8:30 a.m., noon, and 5:15 pmFriday, August 13 at 8:30 a.m. and noonTuesday, August 17 at 8:30 a.m., noon and 5:15 p.m.Friday, August 20 at 8:30 a.m. and noon
Kentucky Looks to Modernize Unemployment System

By The Associated Press

FRANKFORT - Kentucky is extending its search for a company to modernize its pandemic-stressed unemployment insurance system.The state is seeking a contract partner to overhaul its outdated technology for processing jobless claims.State Finance and Administration Cabinet spokeswoman Jill Midkiff said Wednesday that the state will go through a rebidding process. She said that's due to the need for additional safeguards against cyber attacks. Midkiff said the state will request enhanced security to protect the personal and financial information of jobless claimants.Like other states, Kentucky was overwhelmed by record waves of claims for jobless assistance caused by the coronavirus.
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Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-14 22:24:49|Editor: huaxia

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The Chinese Embassy in Pakistan strongly condemned a blast that happened Wednesday morning in Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, leaving nine Chinese nationals and three Pakistanis dead.

At around 7:00 a.m. local time, the shuttle vehicles of the Dasu Hydropower Project for which a Chinese company was contracted to build, were hit by a blast when they were heading towards the construction site, the embassy said in a statement, adding that the Pakistani side is investigating into the incident.

After the blast, the embassy immediately activated the emergency response plan, and contacted the Pakistani military and Pakistani government departments including the foreign ministry and interior ministry, asking the Pakistani side to conduct the rescue and treatment work at all costs, enhance the security guarantee for the Chinese institutions, projects and personnel in Pakistan, and find out the truth of the incident as soon as possible, according to the statement.

The Pakistani military organized and started the rescue work immediately after the blast and dispatched helicopters to transfer the injured, the statement added.

The embassy expressed deep condolences to the dead and sincere sympathy to the injured in the blast, according to the statement.

Pakistani officials said the blast happened in the Upper Kohistan district of the province, and over 30 were injured in the incident.

Assistant Commissioner of Dasu area of the district, Asim Abbasi told Xinhua that the death toll might further rise because several of the injured were in critical condition.

Deputy Commissioner of the district Muhammad Arif told media that the seriously injured have been airlifted to hospitals with better facilities in the province, adding that the security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a search operation.

No group or individual has claimed the blast yet.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-14 22:38:02|Editor: huaxia

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TOKYO, July 14 (Xinhua) -- A panel of the Japanese government on Wednesday proposed a plan to raise the average minimum hourly wage by a record of 28 yen (0.25 U.S. dollars) to 930 yen (8.4 dollars) in fiscal 2021, local media reported.

The labor ministry's advisory panel proposed the 3.1-percent increase of the minimum wage in its guidelines.

If the proposal is realized, it will log the biggest increase since fiscal 2002, and will likely strike a further blow to businesses that are already struggling amid the COVID-19 pandemic, according to local media reports.

The proposed jump came as Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga pledged to achieve an average hourly rate of at least 1,000 yen (9.03 dollars) "as soon as possible" to make sure part-time workers can earn more, and narrow the wage disparity between non-regular workers and regular employees.

The hike by 28 yen will surpass the previous record increase of 27 yen in fiscal 2019, according to the ministry.

However, the gap of minimum wage between urban and rural areas remains large, even though Suga seeks to stimulate regional revitalization.

Under the new plan, the minimum wage in Tokyo would be the highest at 1,041 yen (9.40 dollars) among the nation's 47 prefectures, while seven prefectures in rural areas would mark the lowest at 820 yen (7.40 dollars).

The new minimum hourly wages will come into effect around October after local panels in each prefecture finalize the revised versions by August, with consideration on their economic situations. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-14 22:45:14|Editor: huaxia

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The sign of the euro is seen at a shop in Brussels, Belgium, Dec. 30, 2018. (Xinhua/Zheng Huansong)

The ECB has vowed to create a "riskless, accessible and efficient form of digital central bank money," emphasizing that "a digital euro would complement cash, not replace it."

FRANKFURT, July 14 (Xinhua) -- The European Central Bank (ECB) decided on Wednesday to launch a two-year investigation phase of a digital euro, marking the formal start of a central bank digital currency (CBDC) project for the 19-member currency bloc.

The investigation phase aims to address key issues regarding design and distribution, the ECB said in a statement. The investigation "will not prejudge any future decision on the possible issuance of a digital euro, which will come only later," the ECB noted.

The announcement came nine months after the ECB published its report on a digital euro. The central bank subsequently held a public consultation and carried out technical analyses and initial experiments. "No major technical obstacles were identified to any of the assessed design options," the ECB said on Wednesday.

ECB officials previously said that it may take about five years before the official introduction of a digital euro, should they decide to proceed with the project after the investigation phase.

Banknotes of the euro are seen in Brussels, Belgium, Dec. 28, 2018. (Xinhua/Zheng Huansong)

According to the ECB, the investigation phase will focus on a possible functional design of the digital currency, shed light on possible changes to the EU legislative framework, assess the potential impact of a digital euro on the market, and define a business model for supervised intermediaries.

The ECB has vowed to create a "riskless, accessible and efficient form of digital central bank money," emphasizing that "a digital euro would complement cash, not replace it."

In the coming months, the central bank will also have to interact closely with other European institutions to define the necessary legislative framework. Fabio Panetta, member of the ECB Executive Board, wrote a letter to the members of the European Parliament informing them that the related policy objectives and uses of a digital euro, including in a global context, would be discussed by the end of this year.

"The Eurosystem will drive this project forward with the necessary degree of caution, inherent in our mandate to provide stability - both monetary and financial," Panetta wrote in a separate blog post on Wednesday. 
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-14 23:01:32|Editor: huaxia

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BERLIN, July 14 (Xinhua) -- German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier addressed his compatriots in a video message on Wednesday and urged them to get vaccinated against the coronavirus.

"We are very fortunate to have found a means to protect ourselves and others," Steinmeier said. "Let's use it!" Only by fully vaccinating the largest possible number of people could the protection against the particularly contagious Delta variant of COVID-19 be increased, he said.

As of Monday, more than 36.3 million people in Germany had been fully vaccinated, bringing the country's vaccination rate to 43.7 percent, according to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), the federal agency for infectious diseases. More than 49 million people have received at least one vaccine dose.

Steinmeier said he was proud of "what this society has demonstrated over the past year and a half: solidarity, reason, discipline, inventiveness and mutual help." In the current situation, it is "up to the community" to take responsibility, he said.

Delta has been the dominant COVID-19 variant in Germany since the end of June, currently accounting for 59 percent of new infections, according to RKI. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 00:29:19|Editor: huaxia

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ADDIS ABABA, July 14 (Xinhua) -- The African Union (AU) on Wednesday expressed its deep concern over the worsening security and humanitarian situations in the Sahel region.

The urgent call was made by the AU's Peace and Security Council in a statement issued on Wednesday that followed its latest meeting that dwelt upon the situation in the Sahel region.

The council associated the worsening security and humanitarian situations in the region due to increasing attacks by terrorists, criminals and armed groups operating in the area.

It further expressed concern over the socio-economic challenges that are being compounded by the adverse effects of climate change and the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

It condemned violent extremism, drugs, small arms trafficking, transnational organized crimes for negative cumulative effects on governance, institutional capacity building and state-building efforts across the Sahel region.

Meanwhile, the pan African bloc commended the G5 Sahel Joint Force for its continued commitment to restoring durable peace and security in the region in spite of the capacity challenges facing the Joint Force.

It, however, underscored the urgent need to redouble efforts in mobilizing predictable and sustainable funding as well as the required material resources to enable the G5 Sahel Force to more effectively discharge its mandate. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 00:39:29|Editor: huaxia

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Shi Qiushi (R), a primary school teacher, brings ginger onto delivery vehicle in Longcheng Town of Tongdao Dong Autonomous County, central China's Hunan Province, Aug. 28, 2019. (Xinhua/Li Ga)

BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) -- China will improve the delivery logistics system in the rural areas to further facilitate the flow of agricultural produce to urban households and consumer goods to rural areas, as part of the effort to advance rural vitalization, increase farmers' income and unlock rural consumer demand, the State Council's executive meeting chaired by Premier Li Keqiang decided on Wednesday.

"Expanding the logistics services, especially express delivery, to rural areas is an apparent trend. This will both boost rural consumption and sales of agricultural produce," Li said.

Integrated development of e-commerce and delivery logistics in rural areas will be advanced. The Internet Plus approach will be employed to better align urban markets and logistics firms with farm households and farmer cooperatives.

Specialized agricultural product delivery services and cold-chain storage and processing facilities will be developed. All this will help boost the sales of agricultural produce and in particular support the development of distinct local business sectors in the rural areas that have just been lifted out of poverty.

The efforts to cover all administrative villages with delivery services will be advanced based on local conditions. Faster progress will be made to shore up the infrastructural weak links of rural delivery logistics.

In rural areas in east and central China, the role of market forces will be better leveraged and enterprises will be guided in setting up outlets in villages, to provide better delivery services in rural areas.

In rural areas in west China, postal service providers need to fully play their basic role in the last-mile delivery and cooperate more closely with sectors such as express delivery and supply and marketing, to extend delivery services to more villages.

"While adhering to market-oriented methods and competitive development, we should also place greater emphasis on the provision of public services. Support will be provided to improve relevant infrastructure in rural areas." Li said, "The reform of government functions must be steadily advanced to ensure fair competition."

The reform of government functions in the delivery sector will be deepened. Unwarranted and unnecessary restrictions will be removed. The development of last-mile delivery services in rural areas will be encouraged.

Existing facilities in the villages will be utilized when developing integrated delivery logistics service stations at village level, to effectively lower the costs of last-mile delivery service in rural areas. Oversight on delivery logistics services will be strengthened, to promote fair competition and protect people's lawful rights and interests. 
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 08:24:11|Editor: huaxia

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RIO DE JANEIRO -- Hospital admissions and deaths due to COVID-19 have declined in Brazil thanks to progress in vaccination against the virus, Brazil's Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) said on Wednesday.

In its weekly bulletin on the pandemic, the federally-funded medical research facility said that for the first time since December, no Brazilian state has reported intensive care units with over 90 percent occupancy. (Brazil-Coronavirus-Vaccine)

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HOUSTON -- The death toll from the severe winter storm in U.S. Texas reached 210 statewide, local media reported Wednesday.

Fifty-nine storm-related fatalities were added to the total as media quoted the new update from the Texas Department of State Health Services. (US-Houston-Winter storm)

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TUNIS -- The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has approved a grant of 60 million euros (about 71 million U.S. dollars) to Tunisia to support economic recovery and social inclusion.

The main objective of this program is to support the dynamic of economic recovery by improving the investment climate, preserving employment and promoting social inclusion by using new mechanisms to overcome the social challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19, according to a statement released by the AfDB. (Tunisia-ADB-Economy)

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GENEVA -- To date, the Delta variant of the novel coronavirus has been identified in 111 countries, territories or areas, and is on the way to becoming the dominant strain of the virus worldwide, causing an increase in new infections and deaths, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday.

Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Ecuador are among the 15 countries that reported their first cases of the highly infectious variant in the past week, the WHO said in a press release. (WHO-COVID-19-outbreak) Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 09:57:40|Editor: huaxia

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PARIS, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Loss of trust makes multilateral action and international cooperation very difficult, said United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres recently.

In an interview with French newspaper "Le Monde," Guterres said the loss of trust on a global scale is caused by "growing inequalities."

Thus, strengthening the fragile international cooperation mechanism will be one of the pillars of his second term as the UN chief until 2027, he said.

Guterres added that the relations between great powers are more "dysfunctional" than ever, while the prevention and mediation of conflicts have become increasingly difficult due to the complex international relations. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 10:51:32|Editor: huaxia

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by Mao Pengfei, Nguon Sovan

PHNOM PENH, July 15 (Xinhua) -- "I'd like to commend the CPC (Communist Party of China) and the Chinese people for the great achievements over the past century, particularly the first centenary goal," Cambodia's Senate President Samdech Say Chhum said recently.

"These accomplishments have been made possible thanks to the wise leadership of the CPC," Chhum told Xinhua in an exclusive written interview, adding that the eradication of absolute poverty is a key factor for China to reach its goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects.

Chhum, also vice president of the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP), said he highly appreciates the CPC and the Chinese government for not only successfully controlling the spread of COVID-19 in the country, but also actively promoting international partnership and cooperation to fight against the pandemic.

He also extended his sincere gratitude to China for offering necessary medical supplies and vaccines to Cambodia amid the pandemic, particularly for supporting the Cambodian government's vaccination campaign.

"China has strongly encouraged the development, production and equitable distribution of vaccines and to make the vaccines a global public good," he said.

It is impressive that China is the only major economy in the world which registered positive economic growth last year during the pandemic, he said. "I believe these remarkable attainments serve as an impetus to the revival of the economy in the region."

Chhum said he is optimistic that China's new development paradigm of "dual circulation," a necessary policy to prepare China for a more sustainable and resilient economy, "will continue to accelerate the development pace of China."

With the huge potential of domestic consumption and the spillover effects from the advancement of technology in China, the new development paradigm will also "foster regional and global economic recovery," he said.

Chhum said that only through promoting multilateralism and international cooperation can the world effectively address daunting challenges facing humanity.

"In this context, the CPP warmly welcomes and strongly supports the CPC's proposal for a new type of international relations and building a community with a shared future for mankind, as we firmly believe that it will significantly contribute to global peace, development and prosperity," he said.

Chhum thanked the CPC for its strong support for the CPP in maintaining peace, stability and development over the past years.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of the CPC as well as the 70th anniversary of the founding of the CPP, he noted, adding that both countries will jointly organize meaningful celebration activities in the spirit of solidarity and cooperation. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 11:04:30|Editor: huaxia

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WASHINGTON, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Freedom in the United States is more rebellious, focuses on individual desires, and is based on human weaknesses, while China's freedom is more philosophical, focuses on social connections and is based on human decency, a Chinese reporter has said recently.

"Both Chinese and Americans value freedom, but both have their own definition of what it means," noted Xu Ruyi from China.org.cn in an interview with PR Newswire, a distributor of press releases headquartered in New York City.

"We cannot, in the guise of 'universal values,' judge something against our own standards, regardless of others' intrinsic features," she stressed.

To elaborate on the issue, Xu gave three perspectives according to her own research.

"First, freedom or liberty in America originated from struggles and battles against colonialism and slavery for example," she said.

She took U.S. protests against face mask wearing as an example, saying that those involved are actually protesting against interference in individual freedom by the government.

Secondly, Americans put individual freedom and rights first. They do help each other, they do work hard; but individuals come first, she noted, adding that it's simply not possible to talk about freedom without considering the group a person belongs to in China.

"If I choose not to wear a face mask during the pandemic, I will alarm the people around me, and if I get infected, I may infect others and add to the medical burden," she said. "In this case, I would rather sacrifice some of my own freedom to protect the greater freedom of others."

Last but not least, Americans believe humans are born sinners while Chinese believe in natural kindness, and that's why Americans are skeptical of the intentions and motives of others, Xu pointed out.

"When there is a requirement for face masks, an American will probably question first whether it represents an intrusion of his or her freedom, while the first thing that comes to a Chinese mind is more likely to be: This must be a scientific way to protect me," she explained. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 13:13:16|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, July 15 (Xinhua) -- The People's Procuratorate of Liaoning Province has ordered the arrest of Yu Zhigang, former vice president of China University of Political Science and Law, for suspected bribe-taking.

Yu's case was transferred to procuratorial authorities for review and prosecution following the conclusion of an investigation by the National Supervisory Commission, the Supreme People's Procuratorate said in a statement on Thursday.

Further handling of the case is underway.

Yu has been expelled from the Communist Party of China and removed from public office over serious violations of Party discipline and laws. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 13:57:24|Editor: huaxia

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Workers work at the general assembly line of truck maker FAW Jiefang in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province, July 7, 2021. China's gross domestic product (GDP) expanded 12.7 percent year on year in the first half of 2021 as recovery continues to firm, data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed Thursday. The figure puts average H1 growth for the past two years at 5.3 percent, 0.3 percentage points faster than the two-year average of Q1 growth from the 2019 level, according to the NBS. (Xinhua/Zhang Nan)

BEIJING, July 15 (Xinhua) -- China's gross domestic product (GDP) expanded 12.7 percent year on year in the first half of 2021 as recovery continues to firm, data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed Thursday.

The figure puts average H1 growth for the past two years at 5.3 percent, 0.3 percentage points faster than the two-year average of Q1 growth from the 2019 level, according to the NBS.

In the second quarter, the country's GDP grew 7.9 percent year on year, the data showed. On a quarterly basis, the economy expanded 1.3 percent in Q2.

Other major economic indicators showed continued improvements across the board, with industrial output rising 15.9 percent and retail sales up 23 percent year on year in the first half.

The country's surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5 percent in June, 0.7 percentage points lower than the same period last year. A total of 6.98 million new urban jobs, or 63.5 percent of the annual target, were created in the first half.

In the six-month period, China's per capita disposable income increased 12.6 percent year on year in nominal terms to 17,642 yuan (about 2,731 U.S. dollars), basically keeping pace with the GDP increase.

In the first quarter of 2021, the Chinese economy grew 18.3 percent year on year as strong domestic and foreign demands powered recovery from a low base in early 2020 when COVID-19 stalled the world's second-largest economy.

"The national economy has, in general, sustained a steady recovery in the first half," said Liu Aihua, a spokesperson with the NBS.

Liu, however, cautioned of uncertainties stemming from the global spread of the pandemic and the unbalanced recovery domestically.

But considering the supply-demand cycle, market confidence and the increasingly strong domestic demand, China's economy is expected to maintain the recovery trend in the second half of 2021, Liu added.

China has aimed for an economic expansion of over 6 percent in 2021. It also aims to create more than 11 million new urban jobs and expand domestic demand and effective investment, which are expected to put the economy firmly back to pre-pandemic vibrancy.

The World Bank, in a report last month, forecast that China's economic growth will be at 8.5 percent in 2021.

China's recovery has broadened as its economic activities have continued to normalize under the country's effective containment of COVID-19, the report noted. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 14:20:37|Editor: huaxia

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Staff members work at the mass COVID-19 vaccination center inside the Cape Town International Convention Center ahead of its opening, in Cape Town, South Africa, July 6, 2021. As Africa is grappling with a third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, its total caseload surpassed 6 million on Wednesday, following an increase of 1 million cases within only about one month since June 12. (Xinhua/Lyu Tianran)

ACCRA, July 14 (Xinhua) -- As Africa is grappling with a third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, its total caseload surpassed 6 million on Wednesday, following an increase of 1 million cases within only about one month since June 12.

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Africa reached 6,027,574 as of Wednesday afternoon, the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) said.

Meanwhile, World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for Africa Matshidiso Moeti said that the past week has seen a 43-percent jump in mortalities, with 5,197 new deaths recorded, pushing the death toll from the pandemic to 153,549 across the continent.

The upsurge of cases and mortalities has prompted many African countries to further tighten their preventive measures and accelerate the pace of vaccination, but challenges remain.

VARIANTS-DRIVEN INFECTIONS

Some African countries have reported that the upsurge in cases was largely driven by variants, including the highly transmissible Delta variant.

WHO Regional Office for Africa tweeted on Monday that at least 16 African countries have reported the appearance of the Delta variant, and the variant has been found to be 30 to 60 percent more transmissible than the other variants.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said in a televised address on Sunday that the highly infectious Delta variant was pushing the third wave of the pandemic, and the infections "remain extremely high," so the public system was under pressure with increasing cases and hospital admissions.

South Africa, so far the only African country with more than 2 million cases, has seen 4,200 deaths within the past two weeks.

South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia, Ethiopia and Egypt are the countries with the most cases in Africa, according to the Africa CDC.

TIGHTENED PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Battling a more severe wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, many African countries have once again tightened their preventive measures and accelerated their vaccination campaigns.

Sierra Leone reintroduced a one-month curfew nationwide and limited the number of people for social events from early July, while Botswana announced on Tuesday a decision to close schools from Friday till Aug. 16.

According to the latest figure from the Africa CDC, by July 8, some 52 African countries have acquired about 70.4 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines, 53.3 million of which have been administered.

Moeti said last Thursday that the delivery of the COVID-19 vaccines to Africa through the COVAX facility, donations, and direct purchases from manufacturers have been accelerated, injecting vitality into the continent's fight against the pandemic.

"With much larger COVID-19 vaccine deliveries expected to arrive in July and August, African countries must use this time to prepare to rapidly expand the roll-out," Moeti said in a statement.

The WHO regional director for Africa urged governments and partners to expand vaccination sites, improve cold chain capabilities and embark on community-based awareness campaigns to boost COVID-19 jabs.

CHALLENGES REMAIN

Despite the progress, many African countries are still struggling with an inadequate supply of vaccines and relatively low inoculation rates.

Botswanan President Mokgweetsi Masisi said on Tuesday that the country found itself in a dire situation of rapidly rising cases and inadequate vaccines for the vulnerable population.

"Like many African countries, Botswana is facing a challenge of vaccine availability," which makes it difficult for the country's vaccine rollout plan to go smoothly, said the president.

Namibian Health Minister Kalumbi Shangula said in a statement Monday that the COVID-19 death toll was "quite concerning," urging the public to report to the nearest health facilities for medical help when feeling unwell.

Namibia, with a population of around 2.5 million, has accumulated more than 100,000 confirmed cases and has seen over 2,000 related deaths.

Rwanda, a country recognized by the WHO for its fruitful results in dealing with the virus early last year, now records hundreds of new cases daily. Rwandan Minister of Health Daniel Ngamije was quoted as saying that the number of COVID-19 cases is "skyrocketing."

CHINESE VACCINES BRING HOPE

China is a major COVID-19 vaccine provider that boosts the African continent's immunization drive and China's successful vaccination campaign also serves as an inspiration for African countries, said Cavince Adhere, a Nairobi-based international relations scholar.

"The vaccination breakthrough in China mirrors the sterling performance of public health measures it imposed at the onset of the pandemic to halt the virus spread," he said, adding that China's impressive performance in vaccination will have a positive impact across the globe amid the resurgence of the pandemic caused by COVID-19 variants.

On July 3, the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority approved the use of China's Sinovac COVID-19 vaccine. The country's government, political parties, labor and civil society organizations have given a thumbs-up to the Chinese vaccine, which they said would bolster the country's fight against the pandemic.

Acting Health Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane welcomed the vaccine as a turning point and much-needed relief for the country's vaccination rollout program.

Zimbabwe received a batch of Sinovac vaccine doses purchased from China last Thursday, its largest single COVID-19 vaccine order so far. Zimbabwe's Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care John Mangwiro said the delivery will accelerate the country's inoculation program.

So far, 5,259,921 patients across Africa have recovered from the disease, said the Africa CDC. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 14:45:42|Editor: huaxia

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A university in northwest China's Gansu Province has set up courses to cultivate painters of Thang-ga, a unique style of painting often described as an encyclopedia of Tibetan culture.

Gansu Normal College for Nationalities set up the courses in the hope to preserve the Tibetan painting style, which was listed as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2008.

Thang-ga is a Tibetan word that refers to scroll paintings mounted with colorful satins and fabrics. The scrolls are hung in palaces, temples, homes, and prayer halls for Tibetans to worship.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 15:34:14|Editor: huaxia

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A group of young adults from 13 African countries visited a revolutionary memorial museum in Xing County of Lyuliang City, north China's Shanxi Province on Tuesday, as part of a five-day tour of the area.

Invited by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, the group learned how the military protected the local people and fought against the Japanese invaders under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), and how the civilians supported the military.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 18:21:30|Editor: huaxia

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MANILA, July 15 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines' Department of Health (DOH) reported on Thursday 5,221 new COVID-19 infections, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the Southeast Asian country to 1,490,665.

The death toll climbed to 26,314 after 82 more patients died from the viral disease, the DOH said.

The Philippines, which has around 110 million population, has tested more than 14.7 million people since the outbreak in January 2020.

The country is studying whether to impose travel restrictions on Malaysia and Thailand which are also battling a surge of Delta variant infections, Health Secretary Francisco Duque said.

Duque said the DOH has a "surveillance system" that closely monitors the COVID-19 situation in the two Southeast Asian countries. "The bureau will get a signal if it's time to expand the travel ban."

The Philippines has banned inbound travelers from Indonesia, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates to curb the Delta variant.

The Philippines has detected 19 Delta variant cases so far from samples taken from returning Filipinos who were immediately isolated upon arrival. Eighteen patients have recovered while one died, the DOH said.

Duque said no community transmission of the Delta variant has been monitored so far. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 18:24:55|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday sent a message of condolence to Iraqi President Barham Salih over a fire accident that caused heavy casualties in a hospital in the Middle East country.

In his message, Xi, on behalf of the Chinese government and people, expressed deep condolences to the victims and extended sincere sympathies to the bereaved families and the injured. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 18:48:23|Editor: huaxia

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NAIROBI, July 15 (Xinhua) -- An endangered chimpanzee relocated from a Zoo in Iran has safely arrived at a wildlife sanctuary located in the north-western Kenyan county of Laikipia where it is expected to realize physical and mental healing.

The four-year-old chimpanzee named Baran, or rain in Persian will be hosted at the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary based at the Ol Pejeta wildlife sanctuary where it will mingle with other rescued counterparts and regain health.

"I am very happy to see Baran in a better place with others of her kind and it is good that she will learn how to survive in nature," Jafar Barmaki, Iranian Ambassador to Kenya said in a statement released in Nairobi on Wednesday evening.

Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) partnered with Ol Pejeta conservancy and animal welfare lobbies to carry out the month-long relocation exercise for the endangered chimpanzee that was previously hosted at Iran's Eram zoo.

According to Ol Pejeta conservancy, the relocation was informed by a growing concern over loneliness that the chimpanzee experienced at the Eram zoo where there were no peers to interact with for balanced development.

The female chimpanzee was born prematurely at the main wildlife center in the Iranian capital of Tehran, lost her mother and was later moved into a cage for protection since she was unable to bond with peers.

Baran will be placed in quarantine for 90 days as stipulated by the KWS and will benefit from 24-hour veterinary support and monitoring in order to adjust her to the new life in Kenya.

"She will become an ambassador for her species and help raise awareness on the plight of wild chimpanzees in Africa," said Olpejeta conservancy.

The private wildlife sanctuary has played host to infant chimpanzees rescued from traffickers to ensure they start a new life in a natural habitat.

According to Ol Pejeta conservancy, the illegal trade in great apes for pets and meat, threatens the survival of chimpanzees, orangutans and gorillas roaming Africa's tropical forests.

Stephen Ngulu, head of Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary said Baran's relocation to Kenya will help raise visibility on threats facing African primates including poaching, shrinking habitat and climatic stresses. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 19:50:14|Editor: huaxia

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COLOMBO, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Thirty six percent of the population above the age of 30 years in Sri Lanka have been administered with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, Health Promotion Bureau (HPB) Director Ranjith Batuwanthudawa was quoted by local media as saying on Thursday.

In capital Colombo, one of the worst affected by the virus, 70 percent of the target population have received the first dose of the vaccine, while 25 percent have received both doses, Batuwanthudawa said.

"Considering the other two districts in the Western Province, 66 percent in the Gampaha district were given the first dose while 21 percent have received both the doses," Batuwanthudawa said.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa last week put forward a comprehensive mechanism for vaccinating a majority of the Sri Lankan population against COVID-19 before September.

Rajapaksa said the amount of coronavirus vaccines scheduled to be received in July will be made available to the public, and the districts identified as high-risk areas for spreading the coronavirus will be given priority in vaccine distribution. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 22:14:30|Editor: huaxia

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BEIRUT, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri announced on Thursday his resignation after failing to form a non-partisan cabinet in the crisis-torn country, al-Jadeed TV channel reported.

"I have just met with the President who informed me about his rejection to some of the names mentioned in my last cabinet lineup. The President told me that we will not be able to cooperate together in forming a new government," Hariri said after his meeting with President Michel Aoun at Baabda Palace.

Lebanon has been going through its worst economic and financial crisis, exacerbated by the absence of an efficient government capable of implementing structural reforms to unlock billions of U.S. dollars in international aid.

The country has been running without a cabinet since Aug. 10, 2020, when caretaker Prime Minister Hassan Diab resigned following the Beirut port's explosions which killed more than 200 and wounded thousands of others.

Hariri was appointed as new prime minister on Oct. 22, 2020, but he has failed to form a new cabinet because of his differences with Aoun over distribution of ministerial portfolios.

The United States, France, Russia and other international actors have been pressing Lebanon to form a cabinet to save the country from collapse. Political experts warn about complete chaos after Hariri's resignation. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 22:32:20|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, July 15 (Xinhua) -- The Communist Party of China (CPC) has extended appreciation for congratulatory messages on the Party's centenary sent from overseas.

The CPC received congratulatory messages and good wishes from many foreign countries' political parties, governments, parliaments, international organizations, civil groups, and their leaders, as well as foreign diplomatic envoys in China, friendly personages, overseas Chinese, and compatriots from China's Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions and Taiwan.

Entrusted by the CPC Central Committee and Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, the General Office of the CPC Central Committee and the International Department of the CPC Central Committee expressed sincere gratitude in a statement released on Thursday. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 22:39:21|Editor: huaxia

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NAIROBI, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Africa's COVID-19 deaths that have spiked by more than 40 percent in the recent weeks are a testimony of the severity of a third wave currently sweeping across the continent, a World Health Organization (WHO) official said on Thursday.

Matshidiso Moeti, WHO regional director for Africa, said that the limited supply of oxygen and manpower in the already overwhelmed critical care facilities has fuelled COVID-related deaths in the continent.

"Deaths have climbed steeply for the past five weeks. This is a clear warning sign that hospitals in the most impacted countries are reaching a breaking point," Moeti said in a statement.

She said that the dire shortage of health workers, equipment and infrastructure to provide emergency care to critically ill COVID patients has undermined efforts to minimize fatalities in Africa.

According to Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), the continent's COVID-19 total caseload rose to 6,072,120 as of Thursday while fatalities hit 154,602.

Moeti said that Namibia, South Africa, Tunisia, Uganda and Zambia accounted for 83 percent of new deaths recorded in the past week adding that the continent's case fatality rate stood at 2.6 percent against the global average of 2.2 percent.

She noted the most severe COVID-19 infections and deaths ever recorded in Africa have been driven by new variants and general apathy towards containment measures like wearing masks and social distancing.

According to Moeti, the Delta variant which is currently the most transmissible has been detected in 21 African countries while Alpha and Beta variants have been identified in 35 and 30 countries respectively.

She said that hospital admissions have increased rapidly in 10 countries while six are grappling with a shortage of intensive care beds hence minimizing chances of survival for severely ill COVID patients.

Demand for medical oxygen according to Moeti has spiked and is estimated to be 50 percent higher than at the same time in 2020, yet the supply has remained lackluster.

"The number one priority for African countries is boosting oxygen production to give critically ill patients a fighting chance," said Moeti, adding that a rapid WHO assessment of six African countries grappling with surges found that only 27 percent of the medical oxygen required is being produced.

She said that strengthening the treatment and critical care capabilities of African countries alongside speedy roll-out of vaccines is key to reducing fatalities linked to COVID-19. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 23:39:54|Editor: huaxia

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JERUSALEM, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Israel on Thursday launched a national plan to open the economy to imports, the state's finance and economy ministries announced in a joint statement.

The plan is expected to reduce the regulatory burden on importers, especially small and medium-sized ones, by removing trade barriers, the statement said.

This will expand the range of products marketed in the country and increase competition, lowering prices and saving about 5 billion new shekels (1.53 billion U.S. dollars) a year for the Israeli economy.

The plan aims to reduce the cost of living, raise productivity, and increase growth in the Israeli industry and the Israeli economy in general.

It is based on a reform carried out in Switzerland in 2010 and will align Israeli regulation with the import principles of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development countries, the ministries noted.

The plan will exempt importers from presenting manufacturer's certificates on the product's compliance with Israeli standards. They will only have to present lab tests to confirm the suitability. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 23:46:25|Editor: huaxia

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BRUSSELS, July 15 (Xinhua) -- The European Union (EU) stands ready to help flood-affected countries in their endeavour, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Thursday.

"My thoughts are with the families of the victims of the devastating floods in Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands and with those who have lost their homes. The EU is ready to help. Affected countries can call on the EU Civil Protection Mechanism," she said on Twitter.

According to the Brussels Times, at least six people have died as a result of the heavy rainfall and flooding across Belgium. In Germany, police said the floods have claimed at least 42 lives, many more are still missing.

Belgium, one of the countries affected by floods following heavy downpours, already activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism on Wednesday.

A flood rescue team and a helicopter were sent from neighbouring France to Liege, a city located in eastern Belgium. Italy and Austria have also offered flood rescue teams, and the European commission is coordinating the effort.

The EU will finance up to 75 percent of the transport costs, said the European Commission.

The EU is also monitoring the situation from space with the help of Copernicus, the EU's Earth observation program.

Days of uninterrupted heavy downpours have resulted in floods in Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands, causing casualties and property damage. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 23:56:11|Editor: huaxia

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RABAT, July 15 (Xinhua) -- The Moroccan navy rescued 344 illegal immigrants from July 10 to 14 off the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts, the Moroccan news agency MAP reported Thursday.

The illegal immigrants, mostly sub-Saharan, including women and children, experienced difficulties in makeshift boats en route to the Spanish coast, MAP said.

Many of the illegal immigrants were in deteriorating health conditions and given the necessary first aid, it added.

They were transferred to the nearest Moroccan ports and handed over to the competent security authorities.

Morocco has become a transit country for African migrants seeking to reach Europe. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-16 01:46:52|Editor: huaxia

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Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis (R) meets with visiting Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte in Athens, Greece, on July 15, 2021. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and visiting Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte called on Thursday for a just and effective common European policy to deal with the migration challenge. (Photo by Lefteris Partsalis/Xinhua)

ATHENS, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and visiting Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte called on Thursday for a just and effective common European policy to deal with the migration challenge.

Greece has been at the forefront of the crisis since 2015, while Lithuania is faced with increasing migratory pressure on its borders with Belarus.

"Greece has stood by Lithuania from the very beginning of the recent migratory situation it faces, as Lithuania stood by Greece when we faced our challenges," Mitsotakis said in a joint statement with Simonyte broadcast on Greek national television ERT.

"Our shared aim is to achieve a just and effective common European policy, one that will clearly not overburden member states exposed to migratory pressures because of their geography but will instead ensure a fair and proper sharing of responsibility across the Union, always in the spirit of solidarity," he said.

The two countries agreed to coordinate their positions during the negotiations over the new European Pact for Migration and Asylum, the Greek leader said, stressing that the migration crisis poses significant challenges for the whole of the European Union (EU) and should be addressed collectively by the whole of the EU.

"If we are a Union, we are union for something. I am very thankful to the Greek government for its technical support and expertise that it already provides and will be providing along the way. The experience of those who have dealt with similar situations is very useful and very important," Simonyte said. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-16 02:23:50|Editor: huaxia

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HELSINKI, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Finnish analysts have welcomed the reports on China's economic growth in the first half (H1) of 2021 and noted that Finnish companies active in China have also benefited from this development.

"The growth of the Chinese economy during the first half of 2021 was very fast," Ilkka Korhonen, head of research at the Bank of Finland Institute for Emerging Economies (BOFIT), told the local business daily Kauppalehti, adding that if the same rate of growth continues all through this year, China would be able to reach its official gross domestic product (GDP) growth target in real terms.

China's GDP expanded 12.7 percent year-on-year in the first half of 2021 as recovery continues to be firm, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) of China said on Thursday.

Timo Hirvonen, chief economist at Swedish bank Svenska Handelsbanken in Finland, told Kauppalehti that the growth figures matched the expectations.

He noted that there were concerns in the markets about how domestic demand would develop in China, especially in services. "But the data we now have indicate that the service sector has developed well during the second quarter (Q2) and industrial exports from China have also continued well."

Commenting to Kauppalehti, Petri Vuorio, director for entrepreneurship, business policy and EU affairs at the Confederation of Finnish Industries (EK), said that "2021 has been a record year" for Finnish companies that operate locally on the Chinese market.

Vuorio noted that Finland's goods exports to China have increased this year by over 20 percent and that last year, exports of Finnish food products to China nearly doubled. China's current focus on reducing emissions further improves the related Finnish industries' business prospects there.

Timo Vuori, senior executive and vice president of the Finland Chamber of Commerce, confirmed to Kauppalehti the Finnish companies' positive assessment of the Chinese market.

"The trade policy risks must be identified, but at the same time companies must be brave to benefit better from the possibilities offered by the Chinese market," Vuori was quoted by the newspaper as saying. However, he said he was concerned about the prospects of air traffic and tourism between Finland and China.

Klaus Bjorkgren, vice president at Nordic Match, a boutique mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and strategy advisor that focuses on projects between the Nordic states and China, told Kauppalehti that their customers had reported more "market efforts" than "withdrawals" when assessing company takeovers and investments on the whole.

Bjorkgren said that companies that have operations in China, have been able to join the growth there more than earlier. He noted that the growth figures in China look better than previously expected, especially in the field of consumption. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-16 02:35:22|Editor: huaxia

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Photo taken on March 30, 2021 shows an exterior view of the headquarters of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva, Switzerland. (Xinhua/Chen Junxia)

The diplomats highlighted that COVID-19 is a common enemy of mankind, and it can only be defeated by solidarity and cooperation of the international community.

The diplomats stressed that the study of origins is "a matter of science, and should be conducted around the world by scientists." "Origin-tracing shall not be politicized," they said.

GENEVA, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Permanent representatives of 48 countries to the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG) on Thursday addressed to World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, and voiced their support to advance the study of origins of SARS-CoV-2 globally and opposed the politicization of the origin-tracing.

The diplomats highlighted that COVID-19 is a common enemy of mankind, and it can only be defeated by solidarity and cooperation of the international community.

People walk past a restaurant which has reopened in Geneva, Switzerland, on May 11, 2020. (Photo by Li Ye/Xinhua)

Cooperation on the study of origins of the SARS-CoV-2 is an important aspect of the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, they said in the letter. "As provided in the resolution WHA 73.1 entitled COVID-19 response, the purpose of the origin-tracing is to identify the zoonotic source of the virus and the route of introduction to the human population, including the possible role of intermediate hosts."

The diplomats stressed that the study of origins is "a matter of science, and should be conducted around the world by scientists."

"Origin-tracing shall not be politicized," they said. "Otherwise the global cooperation on the study of origins will be hindered, and the global anti-pandemic efforts will be jeopardized."

The diplomats also welcomed the publication of the Joint Report of the WHO-convened global study of origins of SARS-CoV-2 and appreciated the hard work of the scientists of the joint experts group, stressing that the global study on origin-tracing "should be based on and guided by this scientific report."

They called on the WHO Secretariat, in accordance with the relevant resolutions of the World Health Assembly (WHA), to cooperate with member states to advance the study of origins around the world, and take effective measures to prevent political factors from interfering with the study process. 
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-16 03:08:18|Editor: huaxia

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KUWAIT CITY, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Kuwait will vaccinate teenagers aged 12 to 15 against COVID-19 next week, the Kuwaiti Ministry of Health announced on Thursday.

Teenagers of this age group will receive two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine before the start of the new academic year in September, the ministry' Abdullah Al-Sanad said in a press statement.

In March, Kuwaiti Health Minister Bassel Al-Sabah announced the resumption of study at schools from September, affirming that all students, teachers, and administrative bodies will complete the vaccination by then.

Kuwait reported 1,385 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday, taking the tally of inflections to 382,084, while the death toll rose by 16 to 2,174. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-16 04:25:23|Editor: huaxia

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CAIRO, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Arab League (AL) Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul-Gheit expressed on Thursday "great disappointment" over the decision by Lebanese Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri to step down.

"The consequences of Hariri's stepping down may be dangerous for the future of the situation in Lebanon," the AL chief was quoted as saying in an AL statement.

Aboul-Gheit made the remarks from the U.S. city of New York where he is participating in a UN Security Council session on Libya, according to the statement.

He held all Lebanese politicians responsible for "such a deteriorating condition" that the Lebanese people don't deserve, vowing that the AL would continue its support for Lebanon in this crucial stage of its history.

Hariri gave up the effort to form a new government on Thursday after a meeting with President Michel Aoun, citing that "it's clear that nothing changes and it seems that we disagree with the president."

Hariri's failure to form a non-partisan cabinet in the crisis-torn country narrows the chances for a cabinet formation any time soon to save the country from worsening financial conditions.

Aboul-Gheit urged the international community to stand by Lebanon and support its people in this critical phase. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 05:28:56|Editor: huaxia

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TRIPOLI, July 14 (Xinhua) -- The African Union (AU), the European Union (EU), and the United Nations (UN) on Wednesday issued a joint statement expressing concern over the situation of illegal immigrants detained in Libya.

"The AU-EU-UN task force reiterates its continued commitment to work with Libya and support the overall efforts of the interim government on migration management, in line with international law, and for the benefit of all involved," said the statement.

The statement also expressed concern about the fact that there are almost 6,000 most vulnerable migrants and asylum seekers currently in detention centers.

"Severe overcrowding, lack of adequate facilities and provision of basic services, restricted humanitarian access and human rights violations result in unacceptable conditions for the men, women and children detained," the statement explained.

It strongly urged the Libyan authorities to end the current detention system, calling for an immediate release of women and children and substantial improvement of conditions in the detention centers.

Libya has been suffering insecurity and chaos since the fall of the late leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, making the North African country a preferred point of departure for illegal immigrants who want to cross the Mediterranean Sea to European shores.

So far in 2021, more than 16,000 illegal immigrants have been rescued, while 234 died and 510 went missing off the Libyan coast on the Central Mediterranean route, according to the International Organization for Migration. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 14:50:18|Editor: huaxia

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ADDIS ABABA, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Ethiopia has registered 106 new COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours, taking the nationwide tally to 277,318 as of Wednesday evening, the country's health ministry said.

The ministry said two new deaths and 65 more recoveries were reported during the same period, bringing the national death toll to 4,349 and total recoveries to 262,167.

Ethiopia, Africa's second-most populous nation, has so far reported the largest number of COVID-19 cases in the East Africa region.

According to the ministry, Ethiopia currently has 10,800 active COVID-19 cases, of whom 125 are severe.

Amid the national push for vaccination, the East African country has so far administered a total of 2,077,549 COVID-19 vaccine doses, according to the ministry.

It received the first batch of China's Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccines donated by the Chinese government in March.

Figures from the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed that Ethiopia's COVID-19 cases accounted for about 5 percent of Africa's total.

Ethiopia is among the countries the hardest hit by COVID-19 in Africa, following South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia and Egypt. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 18:40:10|Editor: huaxia

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Eye drops are put into a patient's eye who received a corneal transplant surgery in the Eye Bank of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on June 30, 2021. The Eye Bank of Ethiopia, one of Africa's first-ever eye banks, is giving reliefs to thousands of people who are unable to see due to damage on cornea -- a window-like part of an eye that helps someone to see clearly. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

ADDIS ABABA, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Tariku Hussien, 21, is one of the over 2,500 Ethiopians who regained their sights in corneal transplant surgery in the Eye Bank of Ethiopia.

The bank, one of Africa's first-ever eye banks, is giving reliefs to thousands of people who are unable to see due to damage on cornea -- a window-like part of an eye that helps someone to see clearly.

"I had lost interest in life as my family and relatives were not helpful to me," said Hussien who started to work as a machine operator in China-assisted Ethiopia-Djibouti Standard Gauge Railway service after he regained his sight following the transplantation.

According to a recent study by the Ethiopian Ministry of Health, more than 300,000 Ethiopians were blind due to corneal scarring.

In Ethiopia, corneal damage is largely caused by infectious disease such as trachoma, injury and natural factors, according to Menen Ayalew, Medical Director of the Eye Bank of Ethiopia at the Menelik II Hospital in Addis Ababa, capital of Ethiopia.

Ayalew, who is one the few cornea surgeons in the East African country, said that the bank has restored the sights of some 2,532 needy people until the end of 2020 using corneas that were recovered from the dead persons.

"We replace the damaged cornea of a patient with healthy one's which passed through rigorous check up using high tech machines and equipment," the medical director stated.

Hussien associates regaining his vision as a second chance of life.

"I had lost my interest in life until my cornea was replaced. Now, I have achieved my dream of joining university as a computer science student," he said.

"I am very much grateful to the person who donated his or her corneas and the Eye Bank who helped me to regain my vision and enjoy a brighter future," he added.

Once a cornea is retrieved from a dead person, it will be diagnosed against transmittable diseases such as HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B and C, Syphilis, COVID-19 before transplantation takes place.

The bank collects corneas from the dead persons either from the dead persons who pledged to donate their corneas to the bank post-mortem, as well as from a corpse of a dead person who passed away in hospitals.

According to Ayalew, the collection of corneas from corpses of dead persons who passed away in hospitals is conducted through consent agreements from the deceased person's close kin.

"In both cases, the collection of the corneas should be done within eight hours before the organs of the dead persons start to rot," Ayalew said.

Since 2003, the Eye Bank of Ethiopia has obtained more than 10,000 pledges to donate their corneas post-mortem.

Ayalew, however, indicated that the bank has so far managed to collect insignificant numbers of corneas from those people.

"This is due to low awareness among the public about the very functions of the bank and its poor tracing system," she said.

The former Ethiopian president, Girma Wolde-Giorgis, who officially inaugurated the Bank back in 2003, was the first individual to pledge his corneas to the bank.

According to the medical director, the late Ethiopian president's family were true to the former president's promise as they collaborated with the Eye Bank of Ethiopia in recovering his corneas upon his death in 2018.

The East African country introduced the corneal transplantation service in 2003 after a tripartite agreement was reached between ORBIS international, the Eye Bank of Ethiopia and the Addis Ababa City Administration.

The bank retrieves corneas of a dead person as young as two years.

Frew Shibeshi, 32, is another recipient of a foreign cornea and able to see after the transplant with the help of the Eye Bank of Ethiopia.

"Words cannot explain how delighted I was when I saw people, objects and everything around me after my sight was restored. It was like coming from darkness to light," Shibeshi told Xinhua in a recent interview.

Patients at the eye bank have to pay around one-fifth of the processing fee of the cornea transplant, amounting to about 100 U.S. dollars. The balance is covered by the Ministry of Health and Sight Life, an international NGO which replaced ORBIS international.

Currently, the number of cornea transplantation centers in Ethiopia has grown to nine including in regional cities such as Mekele, Jimma, Hawassa, Gonder and in private hospitals in Addis Ababa.

"Giving someone sight can mean changing them from being a burden to being a productive member of society," Menen said. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 20:40:13|Editor: huaxia

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by Marwa Yahya

CAIRO, July 15 (Xinhua) -- "Demand for sacrificial livestock is very weak this year because of the relatively high prices and decline in supply," said Hussein Abdel-Rahman, chairman of the Egyptian farmers' syndicate, noting the COVID-19 crisis has impacted the related markets in different ways.

The prices of inputs such as medicine and fodder in raising the animals have increased because most of them are imported from abroad, Abdel-Rahman told Xinhua.

Meanwhile, the decreasing prices of beef this year also have forced the small animals' feeders to quit producing new breeds, which highly reduced the number of the offered animals, he added.

He attributed the weakness of the purchase force across the country to the reluctance of feeders despite the government's incentives of low-interest loans.

Eid al-Adha, a significant religious festival of Islam, will start on July 20, coinciding with the Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to the Saudi holy city of Mecca.

Known as the Festival of the Sacrifice, Eid al-Adha is marked to commemorate the prophet Ibrahim's readiness to sacrifice his son in order to demonstrate his dedication to God.

The animals to be sacrificed during the feast are usually goats, sheep, cows or camels, separated into three parts of which at least one third must go to the poor.

However, "demand for the animals this year is very low compared to the years before the spread of the pandemic," agreed Fares Othman, who has been raising and selling sacrificial livestock over the past 24 years.

"Sales until now are less than average, as I have only reached 35 percent of the target," Othman said, adding prices of fodder increased by 100 percent compared with 2020.

The clients who used to take two rams only buy one now, he said.

After shopping around in a big market in southern Cairo, Mostafa Abdel Aal, a 49-year-old teacher, bought a sheep only with 4,600 Egyptian pounds (293 U.S. dollars).

"My income has been cut since the spread of COVID-19 in 2020, so I have decided to limit the cost of this year's sacrificial animal," he explained, noting he needed to save money so that he could afford the salaries of the employees in his company.

Ashraf Moataz, a 58-year-old employee in an electricity distributing company, decided to share a cow with five others.

"Without sacrificing a cow, my family won't feel the beauty of the feast," he said, while bargaining with another buyer on sharing the payment.

"Witnessing the process of distributing the beef to poor people and cooking them for my family is the joy of the feast," Moataz told Xinhua.

Egypt reported on late Wednesday 89 new COVID-19 cases, raising the total infections in the North African country to 283,409 including a death toll of 16,418, according to the country's health ministry. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 23:58:36|Editor: huaxia

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People wearing face masks walk on a street in Tangier, Morocco, on July 15, 2021. Morocco's COVID-19 tally rose to 549,844 on Thursday as 2,571 new cases were registered during the past 24 hours. (Photo by Chadi/Xinhua)

RABAT, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Morocco's COVID-19 tally rose to 549,844 on Thursday as 2,571 new cases were registered during the past 24 hours.

The country's coronavirus death toll rose by 14 to 9,418, while 420 people were in intensive care units, said a statement by the Moroccan Ministry of Health.

The total number of recoveries from COVID-19 in Morocco increased to 528,645 after 1,389 new ones were added, the statement said.

Meanwhile, 11,031,195 people have received the first vaccine shots against COVID-19 in the country, with 9,553,617 the second doses.

The North African country launched a nationwide vaccination campaign on Jan. 28 after the arrival of the first shipment of China's Sinopharm vaccines. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-16 00:47:53|Editor: huaxia

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NAIROBI, July 15 (Xinhua) -- A new vaccine should be developed by 2025 to boost the war against tuberculosis (TB) that has been claiming 4,000 lives daily in high-burden countries of the global south, experts said Thursday.

Speaking at a virtual forum to mark the 100th anniversary of the BCG vaccine against TB, the health experts said there was an urgency to invest in a different candidate that is more effective at containing the highly infectious bacterial disease that affects the lung.

Lucica Ditiu, the executive director of Stop TB Partnership, an international health lobby group, said that governments, industry and donors should mobilize resources to support research and development of a new vaccine against the disease.

"Today, we call on the world to provide sufficient financial resources and political will by 2023 to allow for the rollout of an effective TB vaccine by 2025," said Ditiu.

Statistics from Stop TB Partnership indicate that 12.65 billion shillings (about 117 million U.S. dollars) was invested in TB vaccine research in 2019, against a target of 550 million dollars annually over a period of four years in order to achieve the 2025 deadline.

Experts said the only TB vaccine that has been in existence for the last 100 years has proved effective in protecting children against the disease but has weaker potency in adolescents and adults.

David Lewinsohn, chair of Stop TB Partnership's Working Group on New TB vaccines, said there were 15 candidates under different stages of development in the last 15 years, adding that fast-tracking their approval will hasten elimination of the disease by 2030.

He said that investments in the next generation vaccine technologies coupled with reforming the regulatory regimes and public awareness to boost uptake is key to ensuring TB jabs are widely available to high-risk groups.

Carol Nawina, a Zambian health advocate and TB survivor, said that targeted investments, policy reforms and political goodwill is key to boosting vaccine equity and hastening elimination of the disease. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 10:35:26|Editor: huaxia

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WELLINGTON, July 15 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand's Alert Level system for the COVID-19 needs an urgent revamp to suit the evolving pandemic, said University of Otago researchers in an article in journal Lancet Regional Health.

The researchers said the current alert level system was designed for last year's pandemic context, calling for an upgraded system that better suits Maori communities, and reflects new health knowledge, such as strengthening measures on face masks and ventilation to prevent virus spread from air.

COVID-19 transmission in countries outside New Zealand is driving the emergence of new variants that are increasingly transmissible and may evade protection by current vaccines. In practice, this means that true collective immunity will be difficult to achieve using vaccines alone.

To navigate the new variant phase of the pandemic, New Zealanders need to have vaccination and public health and social measures working together, particularly while the majority of New Zealanders are unvaccinated, the paper said.

The researchers said New Zealand needs an Alert Level system to support transition into a post-vaccination future.

New Zealand reported five new cases of COVID-19 related to recent returnees in managed isolation facilities with no cases in the community reported on Thursday. The total number of confirmed cases is 2,438, according to the Ministry of Health. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 10:36:49|Editor: huaxia

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SYDNEY, July 15 (Xinhua) -- As of Thursday, Sydney, Australia's most populous city, was into the 20th day of its strict lockdown following the nation's largest outbreak of COVID-19 for 2021.

What's more, the end to the drastic effort to curb the spread of the virus is a dispiritingly long way off, with Premier of New South Wales (NSW) Gladys Berejiklian announcing on Wednesday that the lockdown would continue in the Greater Sydney Region (GSR) for at least two more weeks.

"We will obviously assess the situation at the end of the two weeks and provide further information beyond that," Berejiklian dourly noted in her daily COVID press conference, which has become an all-too-familiar ritual for NSW residents.

One issue raised in the conference was whether NSW should have begun the lockdown earlier. Did they take too long to go into lockdown, enabling the virus to take root in the community?

It is certainly understandable from an economic point of view why the government was reluctant to introduce the strict measures, knowing fully well the severe financial pain it would cause.

Shane Oliver, a leading economist from AMP Capital, has estimated that the current lockdown is costing the national economy 1 billion Australian dollars (about 745.4 million U.S. dollars) every week.

One expert with a sympathetic outlook towards the government's timing dilemma is Stephen Leeder, the Emeritus Professor of Public Health and Community Medicine at the University of Sydney.

Speaking to Xinhua on Wednesday, Leeder said the government had been "damned if they do, damned if they don't" in regard to when to enter lockdown.

"On one side there were the health experts who mostly would have liked the lockdown to have begun earlier but on the other side they had to consider the economic sorts, who clearly did not want to see that happen too quickly, if at all."

Leeder thinks there are three main reasons why the lockdown has not stifled the virus as efficiently as earlier ones.

"Firstly, as we all know by now, the Delta strain is transmitted between people much more quickly than earlier variants of the coronavirus," he said.

"Secondly, the virus has found its way into what I would call complex communities. By this I mean they are intergenerational family groups, so it has been able to trigger micro-epidemics throughout Sydney's south-west."

"The third reason, which is really only my opinion, is I think some people have not taken the lockdown as seriously as before. They have become too blase about it."

His attitude towards the introduction of the lockdown is largely shared by Prof. Catherine Bennett, an epidemiologist from Deakin University.

In an opinion piece in the Conversation in late June, Bennett chose her words judiciously regarding the lockdown commencement.

"Should they have gone into a full lockdown on Sunday, June 20, when they had a total of 10 cases? I don't think you could defend that epidemiologically," she wrote.

Now, some three weeks on, Bennett remains cautiously optimistic about the way the outbreak is unfolding in NSW and the state's handling of the situation.

"I still think it is controllable," she told Xinhua. "But the trouble is there have been outbreaks such as in south-western Sydney. By the time one new case is found, they find two or three cases among their close contacts who are already infectious. There are multiple chains and they need to trace all their contacts upstream to find other missed cases."

The latest announcement of the lockdown's extension, which initially was only going to be for two weeks beginning June 26, was of little surprise to many weary observers who have watched the steady rise of COVID-19 statistics.

On Thursday, NSW reported 65 new local coronavirus cases in the 24 hours up to Wednesday 8:00 p.m. with 28 of those having been infectious while in the community. One small glimmer of hope is that the figure was an improvement on the previous day, when 97 new cases were found. Overall, NSW has recorded 929 locally acquired cases since the outbreak began on June 16.

So now more than 5.3 million people within the GSR must remain housebound until at least July 30, only venturing beyond their front doors for a strict set of reasons such as shopping, medical care, or essential work. Masks continue to be mandatory.

This new way of life has come as a rude shock for NSW, which had prided itself on being able to competently control the disease.

Since early 2020, Sydney has had limited lockdowns compared to Melbourne, Australia's second largest city, which has repeatedly endured the financially and socially debilitating effects of lengthy lockdowns.

Now, with the GSR firmly locked down, that sense of complacency is shattered with people left to wonder just how long this dire situation will continue. The answer to that, according to Prof. Stephen Leeder, is no time soon.

"We need to get the number of new cases much, much closer to zero," he said. "That could be another four, five, six weeks. Think of it this way; we were previously dealing with a force four cyclone, now it's like a force six. We really need to be more vigilant."

And meanwhile, throughout much of NSW, the people will continue to keep their doors slammed shut while they bide their time waiting for the virus to be tamed once more. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 11:59:25|Editor: huaxia

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SYDNEY, July 15 (Xinhua) -- COVID-19 continues to wreak havoc throughout Australia's most populated state of New South Wales (NSW) with a further 65 new locally acquired cases being recorded in the 24 hours up to 8:00 p.m Wednesday local time.

Speaking at her daily COVID-19 press conference on Thursday, Premier Gladys Berejiklian expressed concern that 28 of those cases were out in the community while infectious.

"The number in the last 24 hours is too high," she said, predicting Friday's new case numbers could rise.

Berejiklian did, however, see a positive sign in the latest statistics, noting that they were a "welcome drop" to the previous day's figures of 97 new cases.

"They're not growing exponentially. That tells us the settings that we have in place are having an impact," she said. "My strongest message to everybody is keep doing what you are doing. Keep sticking to the rules."

Residents in Greater Sydney have plenty of COVID-19 rules to abide by since being placed in lockdown on June 26 and they will remain under lock and key until July 30, at the earliest.

The lockdown, unlike earlier ones, has been slow to curb the spread of the virus with experts attributing that, at least in part, to the presence of the highly contagious Delta strain.

The virus has infiltrated vulnerable sections of the community including major hospitals, with health authorities confirming on Thursday that a fully vaccinated nurse at Westmead Hospital, in Sydney's west, had tested positive.

Liverpool Hospital, in the city's southwest, which is the outbreak's epicenter, had to close some of its operating theaters for deep cleaning after a patient returned a positive test on Wednesday.

By Thursday, there were 73 hospitalized COVID-19 patients in NSW, including five who are receiving ventilation.

Overall, NSW has recorded 929 locally acquired cases since the outbreak began on June 16.

Meanwhile, neighboring states are stepping up their own restrictions and strategies to contain the disease.

In Queensland, to the north of NSW, authorities are dealing with three new locally acquired COVID-19 cases on Thursday.

The patients include a boy, 12, who flew to the state's capital city, Brisbane, after completing quarantine in Sydney, and one of his parents. The third case is a vaccinated worker at Brisbane International Airport.

Queensland has yet to ban people from NSW entering the state, but Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has warned if the virus continued to spread she "wouldn't hesitate" to introduce a hard border.

Victoria, which recorded 10 new locally acquired cases in the 24 hours prior to Thursday, has already closed its border to NSW.

The southern state also announced on Thursday that mandatory mask wearing would be reintroduced in all workplaces and secondary schools, and health authorities are reportedly considering other ways to reduce the likelihood of an outbreak. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 13:50:14|Editor: huaxia

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ULAN BATOR, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Mongolia confirmed 1,439 new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections over the past 24 hours, bringing the national tally to 143,128, the country's health ministry said Thursday.

A total of 9,350 samples were tested across the country in the past day.

Meanwhile, COVID-19 death toll rose by four to 734 and the number of recoveries grew by 3,347 to 118,219, the ministry said in a statement.

The Asian country launched a nationwide vaccination campaign in late February, with the aim of vaccinating at least 60 percent of its population of 3.3 million.

So far, 55.4 percent of the country's total population have been fully vaccinated against the virus, according to the ministry. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 15:13:33|Editor: huaxia

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WELLINGTON, July 15 (Xinhua) -- The signing of a cooperation agreement on low-carbon hydrogen between New Zealand and Singapore heralds the start of greater collaboration as both countries transform towards low carbon economies, New Zealand's Energy and Resources Minister Megan Woods said on Thursday.

The cooperation arrangement between New Zealand's Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and Singapore's Ministry of Trade and Industry and the National Climate Change Secretariat was signed on Thursday by Woods and Tan See Leng, Singapore's second minister for trade and industry.

"This arrangement builds on the Singapore-New Zealand Enhanced Partnership signed in 2019 and marks the start of a journey between our two countries to collaborate on the production, deployment and research into a new hydrogen economy," Woods said in a statement.

"Hydrogen is a key future fuel option that will help us meet our climate goals by enabling us to decarbonize transport and industry applications in particular that will be hard to electrify," she said, adding that New Zealand has an abundance of renewable energy that could be used to produce hydrogen, potentially for export.

Sharing knowledge about hydrogen, both from its use and deployment through small demonstration projects up to large scale construction, will assist both countries to transform their respective energy and transport sectors, Woods said.

This arrangement is the second such hydrogen cooperation document signed by New Zealand following the 2018 memorandum with Japan, she added. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 19:04:09|Editor: huaxia

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NEW DELHI, July 15 (Xinhua) -- India's southern state of Kerala reported five more cases of Zika virus from its capital city Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday, taking the total to 28 in the state.

Confirming the five new cases, state's Health Minister Veena George said two persons were diagnosed in Anayara area, and one each in Kunnukuzhi, Pattom and East Fort areas.

"With this a total of 28 people in the state have been diagnosed with the Zika virus," she added.

According to her, a cluster of Zika virus has been identified within a 3-km radius of Anayara area, and steps were being taken for the extermination of mosquitoes in the area to prevent its spread to other places.

Following the detection of these cases, the state health minister called an emergency meeting of her ministry to chalk out a strategy to control the virus spread.

Besides, a control room has been set up locally in the wake of the Zika virus outbreak in Thiruvananthapuram. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 20:00:41|Editor: huaxia

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A medical worker takes swab sample from a man for COVID-19 test in Shah Alam of Selangor state, Malaysia, July 15, 2021. Malaysia reported 13,215 new COVID-19 infections, the highest daily spike since the outbreak, bringing the national total to 880,782, the Health Ministry said on Thursday. (Photo by Chong Voon Chung/Xinhua)

KUALA LUMPUR, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia reported 13,215 new COVID-19 infections, the highest daily spike since the outbreak, bringing the national total to 880,782, the Health Ministry said on Thursday.

Health Ministry Director-General Noor Hisham Abdullah said in a press conference that 13 of the new cases are imported and 13,202 are local transmissions.

Another 110 deaths have been reported, pushing the total deaths to 6,613.

The official added that new variants including the Delta variant are partly responsible for the surge, being more infectious and able to be transmitted more quickly compared to previous strains.

"New variants including Delta can infect close contacts in five seconds compared to at least 15 minutes for previous variants besides being capable of airborne transmission," he said.

He also said the investigations are continuing on an outbreak of COVID-19 among workers at a vaccination center in Selangor state, with authorities working to trace the source of the infections.

Some 204 health workers at the center located in Selangor state capital Shah Alam had tested positive following a mass screening, however, most had been vaccinated and found to be asymptomatic or with mild symptoms, according to Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.

Some 6,095 more patients have been released after recovery, bringing the total cured and discharged to 765,800 or 86.9 percent of all cases.

Of the remaining 108,369 active cases, 885 are being held in intensive care and 432 of those are in need of assisted breathing. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 23:23:16|Editor: huaxia

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NEW DELHI, July 15 (Xinhua) -- India's overall exports in June stood at 49.85 billion U.S. dollars, up by 31.87 percent compared to the same month last year, data released by the federal ministry of commerce and industry Thursday said.

According to the ministry, overall imports in June stood at 52.18 billion U.S. dollars, compared to 30.05 billion U.S. dollars in June last year.

"India's overall exports (Merchandise and Services combined) in June 2021 are estimated to be 49.85 billion U.S. dollars, exhibiting a positive growth of 31.87 percent over the same period last year and a positive growth of 17.17 percent over June 2019," reads a statement issued by the ministry.

"Overall imports in June 2021 are estimated to be 52.18 billion U.S. dollars, exhibiting a positive growth of 73.65 percent over the same period last year and a positive growth of 1.08 percent over June 2019."

The ministry said India's overall exports (Merchandise and Services combined) in April-June 2021 are estimated to be 147.64 billion U.S. dollars, exhibiting a positive growth of 50.24 percent over the same period last year and a positive growth of 10.92 percent over April-June 2019.

Likewise, the ministry said overall imports in April-June 2021 are estimated to be 156.58 billion U.S. dollars, exhibiting a positive growth of 80.75 percent over the same period last year and a negative growth of (-) 3.48 percent over April-June 2019.

Taking merchandise and services together, the overall trade balance for June 2021 is estimated at (-) 2.34 billion U.S. dollars as compared to 7.75 billion U.S. dollars in June 2020, a decline of (-) 130.13 percent, the ministry said. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 23:27:34|Editor: huaxia

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BRUSSELS/BERLIN, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Heavy downpours in several west European countries in the past few days have been wreaking havoc, leading to disastrous flooding that causes rising casualties and damages.

Flash floods from heavy rainfall in western and southern Germany have left many missing. Casualties in Rhineland-Palatinate and North Rhine-Westphalia alone have risen to at least 42, police and local authorities said on Thursday.

In the last two days, some areas in Germany recorded up to 200 litres of precipitation per square meter. The flash floods were caused as neither rivers nor saturated soil were able to absorb the unusually high amount of rainfall.

Several cities and small towns in Germany were hit by floods that blocked roads and highways, cut off electricity and even swept away entire houses. Many local police stations issued the highest warning and urged people to stay home.

The Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler area as well as Euskirchen, south of Cologne, were hit particularly hard, with 18 and 15 reported deaths respectively, according to local police. Two districts have been evacuated due to the danger of a dam burst at the Steinbach Dam in North Rhine-Westphalia.

There were "many others who are still in danger," said Malu Dreyer, minister president of Rhineland-Palatinate, adding that the actual extent of the damages could not yet be estimated.

Other than human casualties, the severe weather conditions caused "major power blackouts" in the Eifel, a hilly region at the border of North Rhine-Westphalia and Rhineland Palatinate, a spokesperson of electricity provider Westnetz said in a statement.

In Belgium, between Tuesday and Thursday, non-stop heavy rains have hit hard the eastern half of the country, according to the Belgian weather forecast.

Torrential rain has caused severe disruptions in Belgium on Thursday, with entire streets and villages inundated by heavy flooding. The downpour has turned streams and streets into raging torrents, sweeping away cars and flooding entire villages.

Four bodies were found in the municipality of Verviers in the province of Liege in the central east part of the country, according to Belgian news website 7sur7. According to the Brussels Times, at least six people have died as a result of the heavy rainfall and flooding across Belgium.

"Our country is currently hit by extreme rainfall. We sympathise deeply with all affected families and local authorities," said Prime Minister Alexander De Croo on Twitter.

Public transport in Brussels is also heavily disrupted. The rains will continue to fall in the east and central part of the country, causing more rivers to overflow.

There are growing concerns that the Meuse River, which originates in France and flows through Belgium and the Netherlands before draining into the North Sea, may completely flood over the course of Thursday, causing more damage to towns nearby along its course.

In the neighboring Netherlands, heavy rainfall has caused severe nuisance in southern Dutch province Limburg on Wednesday and Thursday, with streets and houses being flooded and some people having been evacuated.

In the city of Valkenburg, soldiers helped to evacuate people from their flooded homes or care centers on Thursday. A hospice and two other care centers were already evacuated on Wednesday evening.

Fire brigades from other provinces helped to remove people from homes and pump the water away. The evacuated have been taken to shelters. About 400 households are without electricity.

The heavy downpour in Limburg was over early Thursday morning, but the drainage of the water is now the problem. The peak flow of Maas river (Meuse river in Belgium) has not yet been reached and the water will continue to rise for the next few days.

At around 3 p.m. local time, the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI)lifted the weather code red for Limburg. However, the KNMI warned that there is still a threat of flooding. This is also caused by water coming from Germany, where extreme rainfall also led to serious problems.

The EU (European Union) Civil Protection Mechanism, which coordinates member states in improving prevention, preparedness and response to disasters, has been activated to tackle heavy floods, following a request for assistance from Belgium on Wednesday.

A flood rescue team and a helicopter have been mobilised from France to assist with local rescue efforts, mostly in flooded areas around city of Liege. Italy and Austria have also offered flood rescue teams.

The European Commission coordinates and finances up to 75 percent of the transport costs of the assistance, according to a statement released Thursday on humanitarian aid operations.

"My thoughts are with the families of the victims of the devastating floods in Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands and with those who have lost their homes," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen tweeted.

"The EU is ready to help. Affected countries can call on the EU Civil Protection Mechanism," she added.

Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarcic said: "The EU stands in full solidarity with Belgium at this difficult time and is providing concrete support. We express our condolences to the families who lost loved ones. I would like to thank the local and French first responders for their efforts. We stand ready to provide further assistance."

In addition, the EU's Copernicus emergency satellite mapping is providing assessment maps of the affected areas.

The bloc's 24/7 Emergency Response Coordination Centre is in regular contact with the Belgian authorities to closely monitor the situation and channel further EU assistance. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 09:12:50|Editor: huaxia

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By Matthew Rusling

WASHINGTON, July 14 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Democrats and Republicans are in a knockdown, drag-out fight over voting laws -- one the White House said is a major priority for U.S. President Joe Biden.

On Tuesday, Biden spoke in the U.S. city of Philadelphia, claiming the GOP is trying to chip away at voters' rights via the passage of new laws by multiple state legislatures.

"They want to make it so hard and inconvenient that they hope people don't vote at all," Biden said.

"This year alone, 17 states have enacted -- not just proposed, but enacted -- 28 new laws to make it harder for Americans to vote," Biden said.

The speech came eight months after former President Donald Trump claimed he lost the election due to cheating in a number of districts, and Republicans are pushing for laws they believe will thwart future discrepancies at the ballot box.

Biden said his party will fight back.

"We must pass the For the People Act," Biden said, referring to a sweeping legislation passed in the House but blocked by Senate Republicans. "It's a national imperative."

The bill, which has no GOP support in the Senate, needs 10 Republican votes to pass.

The speech came after Republican-led states, including Florida and Georgia, recently put in place a number of new voting laws.

In Texas, the issue grabbed nationwide headlines this week, as over 50 Democratic members of the state's legislature boarded a plane and left, in a bid to paralyze the Texas House of Representatives before a vote on voting laws could be taken.

Two-thirds of the House's 150 members must be present for a vote to occur, and State Governor Greg Abbott threatened to have the members arrested.

The lawmakers "will be cabined inside the Texas Capitol until they get their job done," the governor told KVUE ABC, a local TV station, in an interview earlier this week.

For his part, Biden has put Vice President Kamala Harris in charge of the issue for their party, but the White House said Biden can push the agenda via public speeches.

"Democrats fear that Republicans are taking steps that will suppress the vote and affect how votes get counted in future elections," Brookings Institution Senior Fellow Darrell West told Xinhua.

"There are lawsuits underway regarding some of the state election bills that have been enacted. Courts will rule on them over the course of the coming year," West said.

Christopher Galdieri, an assistant professor at Saint Anselm College, told Xinhua he believes some sort of voting bill will be passed by Congress this year, although it might not be the For the People Act that Biden is pushing.

"This is an issue lots of Democratic constituencies care a lot about...(But) there's not a ton of consensus within the party on these issues, or much chance of GOP buy-in, which means every Democratic vote is crucial," Galdieri said.

The fight began to attract media attention earlier this year, when the Republican-led state of Georgia passed a package of new voting laws.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp contended the laws made it "harder to cheat," but Democrats were outraged, arguing that the laws are a throwback to those in place over 50 years ago that discriminated against African Americans.

Georgia's Election Integrity Act of 2021 requires voters to provide identification when requesting absentee ballots. The law also stipulates that all counties must allow early voting, but that no one can allow voting outside of a time frame of 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.. It also puts a limit on early voting days, which critics said could cause longer waiting periods in more densely populated areas that lean Democratic.

Republicans said there are no discriminatory practices implicit in the Georgia law, or in similar laws proposed or enacted by GOP state legislatures.

Republican National Committee (RNC) Communications Director Danielle Alvarez said in a statement on Tuesday that Biden and Democrats "have an election power grab playbook: lies and theatrics.... Biden is continuing their dishonest attacks on commonsense election integrity efforts."

Pam Kerry, a retired accountant in the U.S. state of Pennsylvania, told Xinhua that she would like to see a law that tightens voter ID requirements.

Cary Dale, a store manager in the Washington DC area in her 40s, told Xinhua that she doesn't trust Republicans on the issue of voting rights.

Many polls show Americans favor voter ID laws. A Monmouth University Poll published last month found that 80 percent of Americans support the requirement of some form of identification before an individual can vote. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 10:39:02|Editor: huaxia

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LOS ANGELES, July 14 (Xinhua) -- The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted to craft an apology for the historical mistreatment of Native Americans in the most populous U.S. county, local media reported Wednesday.

The motion, approved Tuesday, highlighted the disproportionate health and economic burdens faced by the Gabrieleno Tongva, Fernandeno Tataviam, Ventureno Chumash, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Kizh and other local tribes as a result of discrimination, according to a report by local Pasadena Now news website.

The motion also called for an update on the ongoing work to identify county policies, procedures and practices that may have harmed California Native Americans, said the report.

Hilda L. Solis, chair of the board, released a statement, noting that telling the truth is the first step to address systemic and historical wrongs.

"Los Angeles County must acknowledge and apologize for its role in the displacement and maltreatment of Native people," Solis said, adding, "In order to truly heal and move forward together, we must start by telling the truth. The First Peoples of this land faced violence, exploitation, and dispossession at the hands of many government entities, including actions sanctioned or directly carried out by Los Angeles County."

Solis said the county would work together with local tribal leaders to develop a public statement that "acknowledges, corrects and disseminates the true historical record of the county's relationship with Native people."

Supervisor Janice Hahn, who co-authored the motion, was also quoted by the report as saying that an apology would be just a first step.

"The crimes and atrocities committed against the Native American people here in L.A. County, in California and across the country are a dark stain on our nation's history," Hahn said. "An apology is quite literally the least we can do -- but it is an important step to begin to heal the wounds of the past."

Los Angeles County is home to more Native Americans/Alaska Natives than any other county in the United States. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-15 22:06:48|Editor: huaxia

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WASHINGTON, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Politics is causing needless deaths in the battle against COVID-19, said a CNN analysis on Wednesday.

"The task of persuading holdouts, skeptics and the merely disinterested to get their shots is being complicated by the further politicization of the pandemic -- a trend that will cost lives and exacerbate an already stark tragedy that has deepened the nation's ideological estrangement," it warned.

According to a report on Wednesday by Al Jazeera, the COVID-19 caseload in the United States is rising again after months of decline, with the number of new cases per day doubling over the past three weeks, driven by fast-spreading Delta variant, vaccine resistance and Fourth of July gatherings.

"Many Americans view their individual freedom as absolving them of the idea that getting vaccinated is a public duty," the CNN analysis explained, adding that "even the act of publicizing life-saving vaccines can founder on political divides." Enditem
South Boston, VA (24592)

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Ambassador Chen Xiaodong met with General Secretary of the South African Communist Party and Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Blade Nzimande

2021/07/15

On July 14, Ambassador Chen Xiaodong met with General Secretary of the South African Communist Party (SACP) and Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Blade Nzimande via video link.

Ambassador Chen warmly congratulated the SACPs centenary and wished the SACP would make greater contribution to the well-being of the South African people. Ambassador Chen said that China is ready to continue to strengthen vaccine cooperation with South Africa and work for the early benefits of Chinese vaccines for the South African people. It is important for all countries around the world to strengthen solidarity and coordination, oppose bad-faith attempts including associating the virus with certain countries and regions, and related moves of stigmatization. It is important to keep global source-tracing efforts on a sound course based on science.

Dr. Nzimande warmly congratulated the CPCs centenary and made positive comments on the outcomes of the CPC and World Political Parties Summit. He said the SACP is ready to continue to deepen relations with the CPC and make contribution to building a better world.

Dr. Nzimande, on behalf of the SACP, firmly supported Chinas principled position on the issue of COVID-19 source-tracing and condemned the United States for using this issue to attack and smear China. He also said that the South African government highly appreciates the important role of China in fighting against the pandemic, called on the international community to stay united in the fight against the virus, and reiterated that South Africa is ready to strengthen cooperation with China under the framework of the World Health OrganizationWHO. The South African side thanked China for its open, transparent and fruitful cooperation with the WHO on COVID-19 source-tracing, opposed some countries attempts to politicize scientific issues for political gains, moves to pressure the WHO as well as any unilateral actions that serve the interests of individual countries.
Wang Yi Meets with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi

2021/07/15

On July 14, 2021 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in Dushanbe.

Wang Yi said, China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic cooperative partners. On issues concerning each other's core interests, the two sides firmly stand together, and support each other forever. This fine tradition should be carried on. China is ready to take the opportunity of the celebration of the 70th anniversary of China-Pakistan diplomatic ties to sum up the experience of growing bilateral relations, chart development directions, and jointly address changes in international and regional situations, elevating bilateral relations to a new height. China will continue to provide vaccines for Pakistan, and help it completely defeat the virus.

Qureshi offered warm congratulations on the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China. He said, Pakistan sincerely welcomes and supports the rise of China, and it is committed to carrying forward the traditional friendship between Pakistan and China. Pakistan appreciates China's precious support for its fight against the pandemic. China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is praised by Pakistani governing and opposition parties and supported by the whole country. Pakistan hopes to deepen the mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries, push for more outcomes of this major project and boost its development and revitalization.

The two sides exchanged in-depth views on the situation in Afghanistan, holding the view that there are both challenges and new opportunities in the country. The "Afghan-owned and Afghan-led" principle shall be fully implemented. We should leverage the role of neighboring countries, strengthen communication and coordination of relevant stakeholders, and jointly address and navigate the evolution of the Afghan situation. Both sides agreed to strengthen close coordination, prevent the terrorist forces from recurring, promote restart of intra-Afghan talks, and establishment of a broad and inclusive political architecture, making joint efforts for the peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan.
The Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, yesterday, described as a lame denial, the Kenyan Ambassador to Nigeria, Wilfred Machage's attempt to exonerate Kenyan President, Uhuru Kenyatta, from the circumstance that led to the alleged abduction and extradition of its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, to Nigeria, saying that it has incontrovertible evidence against Kenyetta's involvement.

IPOB alleged that the Kenyan President betrayed Mazi Kanu because of financial inducement by Nigerian government and promise of oil business, describing the Kenyan government denial as a smart but belated attempt to cover up its atrocities.

This came as Nobel laureate, Wole Soyinka, said Nnamdi Kanu was kidnapped by the federal government and his arrest was wrong.

Equally, Coalition of South East Youth Leaders, COSEYL, has asked the federal government to immediately return the abducted Leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra IPOB Nnamdi Kanu to Britain where he is a citizen.

In Britain, some southeast elders have stormed the United Kingdom Parliament in London to protest against President Muhammadu Buhari's genocide in their region while urging the British authorities to prevail on Nigeria to halt the killings.

In a related development, the Minister of Justice and Solicitor-General of the Government of Alberta, Canada, Kelechi Madu, has slammed the Nigerian Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Abubakar Malami, over the re-arrest of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu.

Meantime, four suspected members of the Eastern Security Network, ESN, of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, yesterday, were paraded for allegedly planning to plant explosives in a military checkpoint along Owerri/Orlu road in Imo State.

Kenyatta's involvement in Kanu's abduction-- IPOB

A statement by IPOB Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, entitled "We have incontrovertible evidence of how Uhuru Kenyatta betrayed our leader because of oil money" maintained that Kenyan security forces abducted Mazi Kanu at the Nairobi International Airport and tortured him for eight days before handing him over to Nigeria government for extradition.

IPOB statement read in part: "The attention of the global family of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, ably led by our great leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has been drawn to the lame denial by the Kenyan Ambassador to Nigeria, Wilfred Machage, of Kenya's involvement in the criminal abduction of our leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

"This denial is another smart but belated attempt to cover up their atrocities but unfortunately for them, we already have incontrovertible evidence of how the dirty deal between Nigeria and Kenya was struck. Our intelligence gathering has revealed all those involved in the heinous crime.

"The fact remains that Kenyan security forces abducted our leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, at the Nairobi International Airport and tortured him for eight days. Our Leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu was traveling with British passport.

"Contrary to claims by the Nigeria Government, our leader was not traveling with any Nigeria passport because he is not a Nigerian. He was born in Biafra and he has since publicly renounced any connections with Nigeria.

"From our intelligence, Kenya betrayed our leader because of financial inducement and offer of oil by Nigeria. The negotiations was midwifed by the Nigerian Ambassador in Nairobi who bargained with President Uhuru Kenyatta and the Kenyan Immigration Authorities. Uhuru Kenyatta was blinded by the oil money offer and he consented to the wickedness.

"We have it on good authority that Kenyan Police tortured our leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, for eight days without food. The Kenyan President, Uhuru Kenyatta and Ambassador to Nigeria, should be ashamed of themselves for betraying an innocent man because of money. But we assure them that they will pay heavily for this treachery!"

FG kidnapped Nnamdi Kanu, his arrest was wrong --Soyinka

Speaking with BBC Pidgin yesterday, the literary icon said there would be an uproar in the country if the truth of how Kanu was arrested becomes known.

"It's not for me to tell the president to prepare itself because it's going to be a huge squawk when the truth about how Kanu was arrested comes out.

"People are alleging this or that. That is one phase whether Nigeria has acted outside international law," Soyinka said.

"The second issue, however, has to do with Kanu's conduct outside the nation. There's been a level of hate rhetoric which has been unfortunate, from Kanu. Hate rhetoric is an issue that can only be judged by the laws of any nation.

"Was it right 'to have been kidnapped?' You can say intercepted as much as you want but I think Kanu was kidnapped. That is wrong internationally and morally."

Commenting on the reactions that have trailed the swiftness with which the federal government arrested Kanu, the Nobel laureate said the federal government has not shown the same eagerness in going after bandits and insurgents.

"The government cannot wash itself clean on what seems to be a kind of comparative energy in pursuing the destabilised forces in the nation," he said.

"If we take ourselves back, once when I threw a challenge to Buhari, what I expect from a true leader is to issue an order, give a deadline that any illegal occupant of any villages, farms is given 48hours to quit after which the mighty forces of the nation will be unleashed on them. It was ignored.

"Years later, he came to say 'we will respond to these people in the language they understand'. This is what I expected him to have said years ago at the beginning of the insurgency.

"Their leadership, the Miyetti Allah, should have been arrested years ago, long before IPOB was declared a terrorist organisation."

He said rather, the Miyetti Allah group has continued to act unchecked while the federal government has refused to "mount the same energy against them".

"So people are right to say there has been an unequal and irregular approach to security and enforcement in this nation," he added.

He advised the federal government to stop the blame game and take action."

South-East elders protest at UK Parliament

The South-East leaders in a video of the protest as obtained by SaharaReporters, noted that the government was fuelling the crisis in the region.

It also accused the government of allowing attackers in form of herdsmen to maim and kill innocent people.

One of the elders said: "It has been a long time, all of us came together. And now, we are here. This is the British parliament. This is the House of Commons and House of Lords, the mother of all parliaments. We are bringing this letter because of the problem in Igboland and the South-East generally, which can be classified as genocide. People are being killed daily.

"The humiliation of the Igbo and South-East in Nigeria is unbelievable. Young boys and young girls are marched out of their houses by fully armed soldiers.

"They go into their houses and arrest them and they disappear and nobody asks any questions. It should stop. It must not be allowed to continue.

"We are appealing to the members of the British parliament to please prevail on the Buhari government. We cannot go to our farms, the herdsmen are there, killing and maiming our people."

Igbo people in the UK have been protesting against various issues and decisions in Nigeria, including the recent arrest of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, who is in the custody of the Department of State Services in Abuja.

Malami, a disgrace to rule of law, says Canadian Justice Minister

Madu, in a post on his LinkedIn page, said if reports that Kanu was abducted from Kenya were true, Malami was not only a disgrace to the rule of law but also not worthy to be a public officer.

The Canadian official, who is also the Deputy Government House Leader, said Nigeria and Kenya violated international law in the manner Kanu was extradited and called on world leaders to apply appropriate sanctions.

Madu, who demanded the release of Kanu, urged the Nigerian government to ensure his safety.

"The Attorney General of Nigeria, Abubakar Malami is a disgrace to the rule of law and not worthy to be an officer of the court. He has shown himself to be a bigot who does not understand what it means to live in a pluralistic society governed by the dictates of the rule of law," he wrote.

He also called on the international community and leaders of nations to use all their power to ensure "real consequences for these arbitrary violations of internationally accepted democratic norms and rules that govern civilized people."

Madu said, "Nigeria is burning, and the people of Nigeria, except those who are holding the country down, want out. You cannot destroy the hope and aspiration of a people destined for greatness and expect them to bow down in servitude.

"You cannot destroy a generation of people and expect them not to fight for their freedom. The power of guns, state-sponsored terrorism will not achieve peace or the preservation of Nigeria.

"The Igbo and other ethnic groups in Nigeria who are calling for Nigeria to be renegotiated do not seek violence or war. They seek peace. They seek progress and the advancement of their people. They seek fairness, safety, equity, and justice for their people.

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"They seek the opportunity for their children to grow up and achieve their God-given abundant potential. They seek the rise of a people with the work ethic, intellect and capacity to be a truly global super power on the continent of Africa. They seek dignity over inhumane treatment. They seek life over death.

"Friends of the black world must unite and liberate the people of Nigeria from this bondage and from the claws of corrupt and inept politicians who have no business being near the corridor of Nigeria's political power."

Return Nnamdi Kanu to UK, Igbo youth leaders tell FG

COSEYL in a statement jointly signed by its President Goodluck Ibem and Secretary General Kanice Igwe, described the attack as "barbaric and mindless."

According to the statement, "the true and only killers in the country are the murderous herdsmen/terrorists who kill people all over the country".

"The federal government has turned a blind eye to their atrocities and are only interested in arresting, tormenting, and dehumanizing innocent citizens who are not of Fulani extraction.

"Government took all the pains and spent enormous resources to bring Nnamdi Kanu from far away Kenya while the Boko Haram terrorists, ISWAP and murderous Fulani herdsmen/terrorists are busy killing Nigerians in their thousands.

"We demand that the Nigerian government should return Nnamdi Kanu to Britain where he is a citizen and if the federal government wishes to extradite him to Nigeria, they must follow due process of extradition according to international law. "

According to the statement, "the true and only killers in the country are the murderous herdsmen/terrorists who kill people all over the country."

4 ESN members arrested in Imo

The State Commissioner of Police, Abutu Yaro, confirmed this to newsmen in Owerri.

Yaro said that they were apprehended after ESN members engaged the security forces in a gun battle and in the process, they fell to the superior power of the police force.

Vanguard News Nigeria
analysis

As the continent continues to combat the pandemic and starts to plan recovery efforts, the views of the group most affected must be heard.

The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed and amplified inequalities around the world. Amidst lockdowns and economic shocks, it is no surprise that women in Africa have been hit particularly hard. According to the Brookings Institute, more than 70% of women across the continent now face economic insecurity. From job losses to increases in unpaid labour, a rise in domestic violence, and disruptions to education, African women have shouldered great mental, physical, and economic stress.

Yet despite the pandemic's outsized impact on African women, their voices are seldom included in recovery efforts, especially at the highest levels. In my home country of Ghana, where I served as a member of the National Democratic Party's COVID-19 Technical Response Committee, I could count the number of other women involved in decision-making on two hands. This reality is reflected across the region and the world. Women constitute only a quarter of health ministers in Africa. Worldwide, they account for just a quarter of decision-makers on COVID-19 response panels despite making up 7 in 10 frontline workers.

This is part of a larger pattern. In 2020, only 14 countries worldwide had cabinets where women held at least half of posts. Only one - Rwanda - was in Africa. By now, it is no secret that African women are rarely included in government circles. And when they are, they often suffer severe harassment. According to a 2016 study of female parliamentarians, four in five had experienced psychological violence linked to their job, one in four physical violence, and one in five sexual violence.

I know this first-hand. As a parliamentary candidate in Ghana's recent elections, I experienced an avalanche of discrimination with bitter criticism of everything from my makeup to my medical qualifications despite being a board-certified surgeon. This vitriol is not only a threat to women's safety but a deterrent that dissuades qualified female candidates from running in local and national elections alike.

As countries continue to combat the pandemic, it is essential that the voices of all affected parties - especially women - are heard. Because the impact of COVID-19 has been gendered, the voices of women must be front and centre if we want to respond effectively and build more equitable societies.

We have already seen how female-led countries tended to respond to the pandemic most successfully, with numbers of cases and deaths systematically lower in countries led by women. In the US, one study of governors found that states with female leaders had lower fatality rates. In India, women-led councils have pushed for better access to clean water, which is critical for preventing the spread of the virus. There is plenty more research and anecdotal evidence suggesting that when women are in leadership, governments are more likely to respond to crises in ways that support socio-economic development. When we exclude or dissuade women from political office, societies lose.

My fellow countryman Kofi Annan once noted that "there is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women. No other policy is as likely to raise economic productivity or to reduce child and maternal mortality. No other policy is as sure to improve nutrition and promote health, including the prevention of HIV/AIDS. No other policy is as powerful in increasing the chances of education for the next generation."

What he did not include in that statement is the reality that women are not only facilitators of peace but also the backbone driving our development. It is not just because of altruism; it is often because women have experienced developmental challenges first-hand: the face of poverty in Africa is female. These lived experiences might explain why studies show that female politicians are more likely to prioritise health, education, and related indicators.

Gender equality is undoubtedly a regional and global imperative. The African Union calls for "a more inclusive society where all the citizens are actively involved in decision making in all aspect". The United Nations declares that all sustainable development goals hinge upon the achievement of gender equality. Yet as we navigate COVID-19 recovery, we need more attention to gender equality than ever before. We have lost too much during this pandemic to let the carefully fought gains of recent decades disappear.

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To avoid regression, we must recognise that gender equality is critical to the ability of our societies and economies to recover and that diverse leadership is a crucial dimension of this journey. Instead of seeking to go "back to normal", it is time to introduce a "Great Reset" by promoting governance models that amplify women's voices and engage women as decision-makers.

Dr Grace Ayensu-Danquah, MD, MPH, FACS, is a US board Certified Surgeon Specialist, a Member of Ghana's Food and Drug Administration Technical Advisory Committee for Vaccines and Biological Products and a former NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Ghana's Essikado-Ketan Constituency.
analysis

The Conversation Africa recently held its first policy dialogue session where seasoned academics in Nigeria and the country's Minister of State, Health, Dr Adeleke Mamora, discussed the country's handling of COVID-19 so far as well as its preparedness for the next pandemic. In this interview, Doyin Odubanjo, Folasade Ogunsola, Christian Happi and Oyewale Tomori provide their assessment and verdict on Nigeria's chances of successfully handling another pandemic.

What has been the most frustrating aspect of managing COVID-19?

Doyin Odubanjo: It's communication. I think we underestimated what is required. And by no means am I trying to undermine the need for vaccines, or laboratory testing, and all of that. But what you need more than anything else is behavioural change management.

You can have the testing capacity, but the people will not go to the labs; you have masks as a controlling measure, but the people will not put them on.

We were dependent more on using law enforcement, instead of understanding that we needed to communicate effectively to get people to change their behaviour and follow the directives that we gave for their benefit.

Folasade Ogunsola: The greatest problem we have is that our systems around health and education are broken. If you're going to do research in health, it requires knowledge. It requires that you have strong educational systems. It requires that you have strong healthcare systems.

What we have seen across Africa generally is that we have a reactive approach to health rather than a proactive approach.

Oyewale Tomori: There are two things that contribute to our problems. First of all, we learn lessons and forget them as fast as we learn them. We boast about the 2014 Ebola outbreak. But what followed in 2015, what followed in 2016? We had Lassa fever. It got worse in 2016. It got worse in 2017. Lassa fever in 2018 was even worse than in previous years, that is, until 2019 came and we said we never had it as bad. This year - 2021 - it's reducing, because every effort is on COVID-19, and reporting of other diseases is neglected.

Comparing this pandemic with others, what have been the gaps and the gains?

Oyewale Tomori: One way to measure gains is by the differences in your response between the epidemics. Your response depends on how well you prepare. And the longer the space between those epidemics, the more we (Nigeria) forget what happened during the previous outbreaks. And at the sight of each new outbreak, we prepare our ammunition at the war front, piling icing on a rotten cake.

The Minister of Health says Nigeria started to build up laboratories in response to COVID-19. We shouldn't be building laboratories now, 60 years after independence. What we count as success is actually repairing the damage caused by past neglect. We should be ashamed instead of self back-patting.

Christian Happi: Nigeria was privileged to have some kind of skeletal infrastructure in place to respond to COVID-19. Maybe a bit better than some other African countries that had nothing. But the question is, could it have done more? Could it have been be better prepared? The answer is yes.

Were we better prepared? The answer is no.

Are we testing enough to represent what is going on in the country? I don't believe that we're testing enough, which means we could do more.

At the peak of the pandemic, or some time last year, we had a lot of treatment centres that were active. But after a while, when the number of cases was going down, many of them got deactivated. Now that Africa is experiencing a resurgence, can those new centres be reactivated and do we have what it takes to handle a surge like the one that is happening in India and some other African countries? The answer to that is no.

How can Nigeria catch up with the rest of the world?

Doyin Odubanjo: I think policymakers and decision makers have to engage better and more with researchers. We need to build that synergy and close that science to policy gap. We need to note that economic plans are a waste of time without the input of science.

So we have, for instance, a national economic committee in Nigeria, but we don't have scientists on board. We don't even have the Minister of Science and Technology there. The president of the Nigerian Academy of Science is also absent. Yet we'll give speeches that say we know that science, technology and innovation is what drives the economy in this day and age.

We need the private sector very badly to get things running, because apart from the money, there are some efficient systems that the private sector can bring on board to help us manage our public health system.

Christian Happi: It is crucial that Nigeria invest a lot in health security. And more importantly, it is critical for Nigeria and Africa to invest in vaccine facilities. It is dangerous for a country of 230 million not to have a single facility that can help provide vaccine in case of emergency. It is dangerous for a continent of 1.3 billion people not to have production facilities that can help the continent to respond to an epidemic or pandemic.

Folasade Ogunsola: We talk about research, but we don't fund it. There is a gap between doing the research, having the product or the prototype, and commercialisation. When we've done the research, you have a product. Taking it the next step requires government, requires the private sector and requires a policy framework that helps to drive that process. That's missing in Nigeria.

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How prepared is Nigeria for the next pandemic?

Doyin Odubanjo: It's a simple phrase, "we're not prepared". So that's the real takeaway. If we do all the things that have been said, and we address them, maybe we'll be prepared, but we're not prepared. No.

Folasade Ogunsola: Fundamentally, preparedness builds on a system that's working - and that system is broken. So if we're really going to prepare for the next pandemic, or we're going to get the trust, we have to build the systems and make sure that they're strong. We need good health systems, we need good educational systems.

Christian Happi: Nigeria would need to rally all its forces - in public health, the private sector and in academia - coming out with a framework that can prepare the country better.

There are many programmes and projects already being piloted in Nigeria like early warning systems for pandemic preemption and response. Nigeria needs to leverage such initiatives in order to strengthen the health system and prepare the country better for pandemic response.

Doyin Odubanjo, Executive Secretary, Nigerian Academy of Science; Christian Happi, Professor of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Redeemer's University; Folasade Ogunsola, Professor of Clinical Microbiology, University of Lagos, and Oyewale Tomori, Fellow, Nigerian Academy of Science
The Private Sector Financing Programme aims to spearhead an increase in much-needed private investment in small and medium-sized enterprises, farmers' organizations and financial intermediaries.

Rural businesses, which are so vital for transforming our food systems, will get a much needed boost from an ambitious new financing programme launched today by the UN's International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), as part of its broader efforts to address rising hunger and poverty levels in the world's poorest countries.

The Private Sector Financing Programme (PSFP) aims to spearhead an increase in much-needed private investment in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), farmers' organizations and financial intermediaries servicing small-scale farmers, which are too often neglected by investors. It will provide loans, risk management instruments (such as guarantees), and equity investments.

"We can end poverty and hunger! But to achieve this, we urgently need to stimulate more private sector investments to rural areas and unlock the immense entrepreneurial potential of millions of rural SMEs and small producers," said Gilbert F. Houngbo, President of IFAD. "With access to capital, they can attract more investors and partners, grow their businesses and create employment opportunities - especially for young people and women."

As part of its launch, the PFSP announced its first loan of US$5 million to a Nigerian social impact enterprise, Babban Gona, which has a strong background in successfully moving small-scale farmers from subsistence to a more market-orientated model.

The loan will help Babban Gona support 377,000 small-scale rice and maize producers in Nigeria with a comprehensive package of training, quality inputs, and marketing services. Babban Gona will also store and sell the harvest on behalf of its farmers when prices are higher. They aim to create up to 65,000 jobs for women and 66,500 jobs for youth by 2025. By committing these funds, the PSFP aims to stimulate larger contributions from other investors and help Babban Gona meet its target to raise $150 million to reach millions of small producers.

Lack of financing and access to financial services prevents rural SMEs and small-scale farmers from harnessing opportunities offered by a growing demand for more diverse and nutritious food globally. SMEs involved in food processing, packaging, transport and marketing are essential to small-scale farmers, providing them with services, inputs, and market opportunities, which contribute to increasing their income and employment.

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, financial service providers only met about 30 percent of the $240 billion that rural households required in their demands for finance. In addition, the lending gap to agricultural SMEs was around $100 billion annually in Sub-Saharan Africa alone.

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IFAD aims to mobilise $200 million for the PSFP from public, private and philanthropic sources to leverage a total of $1 billion in private investments. This will improve the lives of up to 5 million small-scale farmers. The PSFP will focus its investments on job creation, women's empowerment, building farmers' resilience and accelerating climate change mitigation.

"With growing hunger and poverty and the urgent need to make our food systems more sustainable and equitable, business as usual is not an option. We need to innovate now," said Houngbo. "This is why IFAD is creating new instruments to catalyse increased private sector investments to rural areas where they are needed most."

IFAD's investments, combined with its 40 years of experience working with rural communities, global field presence and large portfolio in agriculture, give it an advantage in attracting private investors who may be cautious about investing in agriculture and rural economies.

The PSFP is part of IFAD's wider ambition to increase its engagement with the private sector to reach millions more rural people and double its impact on eradicating hunger and poverty by 2030. To this end, in 2019 IFAD amended its founding agreement to enable it to invest directly in private sector entities. Previously, IFAD only channelled investments to rural areas through grants and sovereign loans to governments. IFAD's loan to Babban Gona is IFAD's first loan to a private sector entity.
A heavy downpour on Sunday caused floods that devastated many parts of Jalingo, the Taraba State capital

Residents of at least seven communities in Jalingo Local Government Area of Taraba State have been counting their losses since floods on Sunday devastated their communities.

Some of the worst hit areas are Mayo Gwoi, Abuja Phase 2, Nukkai, Barade and part of Abuja Phase 1.

Apart from washing away many homes and rendering many homeless, the floods also washed away farm crops and livestock.

Residents who spoke to PREMIUM TIMES blamed the disaster on a poor drainage system in many parts of the state capital, caused by uncontrolled physical development.

Many of the victims who are yet to relocate despite signs of more rains said they need government support to get new homes.

Though no life was lost in the disaster, Dauda Sani, a community leader in Abuja Phase 2, said the flood destroyed many houses in his area.

Another victim who gave her name as Aunty Tobi said she lost valuables such as books, personal documents, animals and foodstuff.

A widow and mother of five who gave her name as Sarah said she sent her children to relatives and friends in different places after her house was submerged on Sunday.

"I need to relocate from this area too but I have no money to do so," she told Premium Times on Tuesday

Bala Sani of Barade community said he could not remove anything from his house after the flood struck .

"When we saw the rising water coming like a strong wave, we all ran away leaving our property. I thank God that I did not lose any of my family members."

'We lost many things'

Philip Garba, who spoke on behalf of the head of Abuja Phase 2, Thomas Umar, said over 100 houses were destroyed in the community.

"We lost so many things. We need help and assistance from government and good Samaritans for us to be able to return to normal life."

He said people living in homes close to the river banks in the community were willing to relocate but need assistance to do so.

Government intervenes but...

Governor Darius Dickson Ishaku was in Abuja on Sunday when the disaster occurred.

He flew into the state later the same evening and visited some of the flood-ravaged areas to assess the damages and sympathise with residents. Mr Ishaku said the state government would immediately provide food and other relief materials.

The governor accused the federal government of abandoning the state to its fate in and failing to assist with relief materials for the flood victims.

He said the state government would provide relief materials to the affected areas to help cushion their pains.

Mr Ishaku said though he learnt that officials of the federal Ministry of Humanitarian Services and Disaster Management "claimed to be in the state the previous week", he was yet to ascertain the claim.

"This assistance from the federal government does not get to us. We get assistance from certain proxies but not from the government," he said but provided no details.

The governor also urged those residing in riverine areas to vacate the areas.

Mr Ishaku said the state government would send engineers to assess the damage caused to roads and bridges in the areas with a view to carrying out urgent repairs.

Premium Times contacted the humanitarian services ministry and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on the governor's claim but got no response.

A special assistant to the minister, Halima Oyelade, when reached by the reporter on the telephone promised to get back after getting details from the department concerned but refused to pick several calls afterwards.

But the permanent secretary of the state ministry of special duties and humanitarian services, Usman Madu, said "NEMA had reached out to the ministry" and promised to deliver relief materials.

Mr Madu disclosed this on Tuesday while presenting the "first batch" of relief intervention to the victims of the disaster at the Jalingo local government secretariat.

He said the food items which include rice, garri, semovita and assorted seasoning were from the state government.

He said NEMA had promised to intervene through the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) but he could not comment on the matter until the items are received.

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"I cannot comment on what we are yet to receive but we were informed that NEMA is bringing some relief materials to the state, which we are waiting to receive.

"The details of the affected persons have been taken for necessary action. Those who own houses and other properties, we will see how we can give them succour. Cooperate with government officials on ground to carry out the task," he said.

While commending Governor Darius for the prompt response to the situation, the chairman of Jalingo LGA, Nasiru Boboji, said the council would work with the leaders of the affected communities to ensure that all victims benefited from the relief items.

He said he had earlier visited the affected areas with the member representing Jalingo 1 constituency in the state House of Assembly, Yahuza Abubakar, who was also at the distribution venue.

Speaking during the distribution, Mr Abubakar said, "the governor has promised to assist you more after this immediate intervention. We are providing food items to enable you eat before we get other forms of assistance".
analysis

A new memoir by axed senior officer Jeremy Vearey suggests this might be key to saving the SAPS.

It is common knowledge that the South African Police Service (SAPS) leadership is in crisis. The problem is frequently attributed to a broken and opaque appointment system for senior managers. While this is true, a new memoir by recently axed (Major-General) Jeremy Vearey hints at a source much deeper than faulty organisational systems: shadows born of officers' pasts.

In psychology, the 'shadow' refers to the unconscious elements of a person's personality. Because conscious minds evolved to generate positive self-stories, the 'shadow' is where we bury aspects of ourselves with which we refuse to identify. Psychoanalysts suggest that by confronting and making peace with our shadow, we become whole.

This is difficult for anyone to do, but much harder for leaders of a police organisation born of former enemies. As Vearey describes the freshly formed SAPS of 1995, it was 'a Frankenstein's monster ... of the old South African Police and ten homeland police forces.' Although the SAPS is a very different organisation today, Vearey's book suggests that it remains steeped in mistrust and weighed down by the inefficient bureaucracy it birthed.

'I first met the enemy on 17 August 1987 at 1:30 pm,' writes Vearey in the opening pages of his memoir, Into Dark Water. The enemy was apartheid's South African Police (SAP), the precursor to the SAPS that he would one day help lead.

At the time, he was a teacher and member of uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK), the armed wing of the African National Congress (ANC). The Security Police arrested, detained and tortured him before he was jailed on Robben Island.

Vearey's memoir hints at a source of the SAPS crisis much deeper than faulty organisational systems

He was released in 1990 as part of the negotiated settlement between the ANC and apartheid government. By 1995 he found himself working in the building where he was once tortured, and drinking with the men who had arrested and assaulted him.

And while these encounters revealed that some were 'all too human outside the battlefield,' the personal and workplace conflicts would continue for decades. Not only between the old guard and new, but among any who feared, doubted or needed to deal with their fellow officers to move forward.

One way in which the SAPS tried to navigate the uncertainties of its birth was through bureaucratisation. In Vearey's telling, this took the form of irrational bureaucrats, 'admin Nazis' and 'petty ... management politics,' a new performance system and obsession with statistics that are 'often more manipulated than real.'

Reflecting on the consequences of this, Vearey recognises that the link between police work and reported crime is a 'fallacy' driving a 'charade' of police practice. Victims are 'devalued and reduced to mere metrics' while station commanders are subjected to 'gratuitous bullying' by superiors when reported crime increases.

And when pressure mounts, the SAPS embarks on 'endless ... restructuring ... in a race to secure positive statistics.' Knee-jerk reforms lead to 'countless misfired police operations and misdirected government initiatives,' inconsistent planning, poor communication and a failure to evaluate for impact.

According to Vearey, the link between policing and reported crime is a 'fallacy' driving a 'charade'

The enemy of an honest SAPS officer can be as banal as the organisational culture that saturates their working lives. And yet this culture, too, is partly born of unresolved and mismanaged pasts. Crudely put, red tape is a means to compel trust between colleagues where it is lacking.

Sometimes the bureaucratic and personal overlap. Vearey recounts occasions where a task team's success led to management interference. When he objected in 2002, he was suspended without pay. Such attacks followed him throughout his career. He fought on, chasing his vision of justice and running from his shadow, but at what cost? How much energy do police spend fighting internal battles or covering their backs rather than doing their jobs?

When Vearey was appointed to the rank of brigadier, a senior colleague told him he'd 'been promoted to the level of your future enemies ... They will invite you to ride in the train. And when it is in motion, they will open the doors and throw you out.'

The advice was given in the stairwells during smoke breaks because they believed colleagues had bugged their offices. The echoes of this mistrust reverberate in the corridors of SAPS power today as officers struggle to live with 'toxic masculinity of unresolved pasts.'

It's not only fellow senior managers with whom Vearey has clashed. In one instance, police leaked information to gang hitmen hired to kill him. In another, his colleagues colluded with gangsters and journalists to publish lies in the Sunday Times, which later accepted it had been duped. In 2016, after Vearey helped convict Colonel Christiaan Prinsloo for selling thousands of firearms to gangsters, he was rewarded with a demotion.

It may take more than transparency of appointments for long-serving officers to process their pasts

At other times, the enemies were his former MK soldiers and leaders of government. When Vearey recorded ANC MP Vytjie Mentor's statement alleging corruption involving former president Jacob Zuma, the Gupta brothers and others, a senior police leader authorised rogue operations to sabotage investigations - apparently with Zuma's backing. When Vearey pushed back, a top general allegedly said he would 'finish [him] off.' But Vearey fought on, surviving various attempts at dismissal.

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When National Commissioner Khehla Sitole said in 2018 the SAPS was introducing a programme called Simunye (we are one) to address management conflicts, Vearey reflected, 'Siyinhlakanhlaka: we are divided ... there was still no unity within police management. Our spears are still stained with old blood.'

Although not covered in the book, Vearey's opponents won their greatest victory in May 2021 when he was dismissed for posting 'disrespectful' social media messages. Considering that the SAPS retains in its ranks all manner of officers found guilty of serious offences and criminality, Vearey's dismissal raises questions about SAPS commitment to accountability.

But these battles take their toll on the individuals involved, the SAPS and the communities left to fend for themselves while police wage war with each other.

South Africa's police leadership is in crisis. Although it's a good place to start, it may take more than transparency of appointments for long-serving officers to accept their shadows and let light into the 'dark water' of the SAPS, as Vearey attempts for himself with his book.

Andrew Faull, Senior Researcher, Justice and Violence Prevention, ISS Pretoria
The Cameroonian authorities have congratulated Nigeria over the arrest of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Mr Felix Mbayu, a Special Envoy from President Paul Biya of Cameroon, congratulated Nigeria when he was received by President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja on Tuesday.

He said Biya looked forward to a situation in which Nigerian territory would not be available for the Ambazonian movement to destabilize Cameroon, "as some people are taking advantage of crises in the two English speaking parts of Cameroon to break the country apart."

Like IPOB, Ambazonia is seeking to break out of Cameroon.

Mr Mbayu, who is also Minister Delegate in Charge of Cooperation with the Commonwealth, said President Biya was happy with the role Nigeria was playing in Africa.

He said the two neighbours shared not just borders and historical ties, "but also common challenges."

"These challenges border on security specially, and it is incumbent on us both to find common solutions," he added.

Buhari, while speaking, said Nigeria would offer the best support possible to ensure that the Republic of Cameroon remained an indivisible country.

The President, while saying Nigeria was acutely aware of the separatist agitation by the Ambazonian movement, stressed that it was in the interest of Nigeria "to ensure that Cameroon is stable, and we will be steadfast in our support for you."

Buhari, in a statement issued by his spokesman, Femi Adesina, said Nigeria and Cameroon shared historical ties and common borders, which make it imperative for the two countries to look out for each other's well-being.

"That was why when I first came to office in 2015, I immediately visited all our neighbours, because we are very clear about the value of good neighbourliness.

"You will have problems if your neighbours are not cultivated. And our relationship with Cameroon had been very clear since when I was serving in the military. The country offered us needed support during our Civil War," the President said.
Nnewi  The Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, has raised the alarm over the alleged refusal by the Department of State Services, DSS, to allow its leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, see his doctors.

IPOB has therefore warned that if the Federal Government allows its leader to die in DSS custody following its refusal with its security agency to allow him to see his doctors, IPOB will bring down Nigeria and the consequences of what they will do in Nigeria can only be better imagined.

IPOB in a late statement on Wednesday, by its Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, following the alleged deteriorating condition of its leader's health, alleged that every attempt by Mazi Kanu's personal physicians to gain access to him has been rebuffed by the DSS, thereby worsening his health condition.

According to the Biafra agitating group, "Mazi Nnamdi Kanu must be released to enable him to undergo a proper medical examination having gone through the most horrendous inhumane treatment and torture at the hands of the Kenyan security agents."

Also Read: FG helpless, uninterested in dealing decisively with bandits, insurgents -- Kukah tells US Congress

IPOB statement read in part. "We the global family of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, ably led by our great leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, wish to alert the world and men of good conscience about the deteriorating health condition of our leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu who has been in detention at the Department of State Services, DSS, dungeon since his illegal abduction in Kenya and criminal repatriation to Nigeria.

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"Every attempt by his personal physicians to gain access to him has been rebuffed by the DSS, thereby worsening his health condition.

"We are alerting the world about this anomaly to compel the Nigerian government to grant our leader's doctors access to see him for a thorough medical examination bearing in mind the terrible torture he underwent for eight days in the hands of the Kenyan security agents.

"We wish to unequivocally state that no harm should befall our leader, we will bring down Nigeria if anything untoward happens to him. The consequences of what we will do in Nigeria can only be imagined than experienced. This is not a threat but a promise! Nigeria has been winning and dining with bandits and terrorists, but dehumanizing and killing peaceful agitators and freedom fighters.

"We urge human rights organizations, UN, AU, EU, ECOWAS and other relevant organizations across the globe to rise in defence of justice and compel the Nigeria government and her compromised security agencies to grant our leader's personal doctors unfettered access to him.

Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, our indefectible and courageous leader must not die in DSS custody, neither should he suffer any serious health complications, otherwise Nigeria will cease to exist.

"Our leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has not committed any crime against Nigeria or Kenya government to warrant being treated as a criminal, after all a sitting President in Nigeria threatened blood of monkeys and baboons will flow in Nigeria if he was not allowed to rule Nigeria.

"Human rights organizations and men and women of good conscience across the world should not watch idly while our leader is being dehumanized by the wicked Nigeria security agents.

"Our leader's fundamental human rights have been grossly violated by the Nigerian and Kenyan governments and continue to be violated with each passing day under the illegal custody of the DSS."
Thomas Makama, the founder of the Bertrams Residents Movement, in his backyard in Johannesburg, South Africa. July 5, 2021.

Johannesburg  Grandmothers are joining community patrols - from their patios - to help reduce crime on Johannesburg's dangerous streets

As looters ran through the streets of Johannesburg, South African grandmother Evelyne turned off her lights, stood by her window and carefully lifted her curtain, surveying the chaos as gunshots and screams filled the night air.

The 72-year-old was guarding her property, but she was also gathering information to share with her neighbourhood watch team, made up of a few male patrollers and about a dozen grandmothers in the inner city's Bertrams neighbourhood.

"I was scared to go outside, but I heard that there were gunshots coming from a nearby shop and groups of men running through the streets," said Evelyne, who relayed her observations to her team who then alerted police.

"One man tried to jump over my wall but I shouted through the window and he ran away," Evelyne, whose full name is being withheld to protect her identity, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

South Africa's worst violence in years broke out after last week's arrest of former president, Jacob Zuma, with soldiers deployed to stop crowds looting everything from washing machines to fridges and groceries.

The unrest comes at a time of frustration with COVID-19 restrictions, government corruption scandals and inequality that persists 27 years after the end of white minority rule, with unemployment hitting a new high of 32.6% this year.

One of the most unequal countries in the world, South Africa saw its highest murder rate in a decade in 2020, with 21,000 homicides, or 58 a day, a figure five times higher than the global average, according to government statistics.

Residents say rising unemployment fuels drug use and crime, as more than a year of COVID-19 lockdowns has triggered major job losses, particularly in construction, the informal sector and private homes.

The grandmother lookout team - who generally patrol from the safety of their patios - have become more valuable than ever, said Thomas Makama, founder of the neighbourhood watch scheme.

"About two shops were looted, but we managed to stop up to 10 shops from being attacked because we were on the lookout and called police for urgent backup," said Makama, who called and visited the grandmothers to gather information.

"It's dangerous work," said 61-year-old Makama, who never carries a weapon and relies on his people skills to engage with criminals and police and dissipate danger.

EXTRA EYES

Makama founded the Bertrams Residents Movement in 2015, after the community helped him get back his home when he was evicted and forced on to the streets by "hijackers" who were trying to illegally take over the site where he lived.

Makama, who was working as a panel beater and unable to afford rent for his family of six, had been given permission to build a shack on the land by its owners, who lived in Canada.

"The community realised what had happened and protested my eviction. We got legal support and eventually returned," said Makama, sitting alongside his corrugated iron shelter. "The community saved my life, so now I dedicate mine to them."

Makama patrols the streets at night on foot to make sure residents are safe, while the grandmothers act as extra eyes, quickly phoning Makama if they hear or witness crime.

Residents say Makama comes quickly at any hour to calm people down as they wait for the police to arrive.

"It takes two to fight crime: we need the community involved because they are there 24 hours and they know what is happening in their environment," said Bertrams police captain Richard Munyai, cautioning residents not to approach criminals.

"They mustn't be heroes, just informers."

Criminologist Anine Kriegler said the grandmothers sitting on their porches and looking out their windows are using a tried-and-tested method known as natural surveillance, which deters criminals by increasing the number of eyes on them.

"Grandmothers have been playing an important role in looking after young people for most of human history," said Kriegler of the University of Cape Town.

Such surveillance tools, which also include keeping entrances well-lit and cutting down bushes to eliminate hiding spots, offer a low-cost alternative to barricading yourself behind high walls and electric fences, she said.

"The wealthy buy themselves ... fortification that harms natural surveillance," she said. "We can't look out for each other if we live in fortresses."

Although many South Africans have lost faith in the police, with some even resorting to vigilantism, communities can work together to improve their security through neighbourhood watches, she said.

Makama is a firm believer in non-violent crime prevention, citing how one grandmother called him to stop a drug dealer beating his daughter. The police rushed to the scene and arrested the man who is still in prison today.

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"There are a lot of problems but we do something to protect one another instead of waiting for things to get better," agreed Evelyne.

The group, made up of just 18 regular volunteers, also helps the community respond to illegal evictions, contact the government over water or electricity cuts, escorts children safely to school and runs a soup kitchen.

"We play an important role, even though we do it free - we do it because we care," said Elizabeth, a 60-year-old volunteer.

Uncertain whether looting would continue as darkness fell, Makama was preparing for another sleepless night, determined to give back to neighbours who have helped him over the years.

He described how he nearly cried at Christmas when he was short of food and 72-year-old Evelyne delivered a trolley filled with groceries to his door.

"If you love and protect your community, they will love and protect you too," he said.

(Reporting by Kim Harrisberg @KimHarrisberg; Editing by Katy Migiro. The Thomson Reuters Foundation is the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, and covers the lives of people around the world who struggle to live freely or fairly. Visit http://news.trust.org)
THE bill to prohibit open grazing and related matters in Delta State, Wednesday, passed second reading on the floor of the State House of Assembly.

The bill, Delta State Livestock Breeding, Rearing and Marketing Regulation, which is being sponsored by the member representing Ughelli South Constituency in the House, Mr Reuben Izeze and 24 other members of the House, was debated during plenary presided over by the Speaker, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori.

Izeze who opened debate on the merit of the bill, said the bill was long over due to the activities of killers herdsmen, adding that the bill is needed to protect every community.

According to the Lawmaker, the bill when passed and assented to, would help to regulate movement and other activities of livestock dealers in every part of the state.

Izeze commended Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, other Southern Governors and Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria for their resolution against open grazing in the Southern part of the country.

He, however said resolutions were mere persuasive, adding that enabling law is needed to enforce ban on open grazing.

Speaking in favour of the bill, the Deputy Majority Leader of the House, Mr Kenneth Preyor, the Deputy Chief Whip, Chief Solomon Ighrakpata, the member representing Warri South West Constituency, Mr Emomotimi Guwor and others, described the bill as a welcome development.

They said the bill would help to curb the menace of the ravaging herdsmen, adding that the bill has come to save the lives of Deltans.

The Speaker of the House, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori referred the bill to the House joint committee on Special bills, Agriculture and Natural Resources after it was unanimously supported by all members.

Meanwhile, the Chief Press Secretary to Delta State Governor, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, has said the state government had begun work towards enacting a law to prohibit open grazing in the state.

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Ifeajika, who stated this on a Delta Broadcasting Service live television programme monitored by our Correspondent, said Delta State Livestock Breeding, Rearing and Marketing Regulation Bill, 2021 was already before the House of Assembly.

He said the Bill had scaled first reading at the parliament, expressing optimism that the bill would be passed and made ready for the Governor's assent before the September deadline set by the Southern Governors' Forum in their recent meeting in Lagos.

Commending the Speaker, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori and members of the Assembly for their commitment towards ensuring that the Bill was passed on time, he said: "It is true that the Southern Governors' Forum had set September deadline for states to pass their anti-open grazing laws.

"For us in Delta, we would have had ours passed and ready long ago if not for the strike embarked upon by the parliamentary workers. However, the Bill is already before the House and it has passed through first reading while the second reading has been slated for Wednesday.

"I am very optimistic that the Law will be ready in Delta before the September deadline set by the Southern Governors' Forum. I must commend the Speaker and members of the House for their commitment in ensuring that the Bill gets the urgent attention it deserves".

Vanguard News Nigeria
As part of measures to provide adequate security during President Muhammadu Buhari's Thursday's visit to his home state, Katsina for the commissioning of some projects, the State Police Command has announced restriction of movement of persons, vehicles, motorcycles and herders in some major highways in the state.

The highways include Dutsinma - Kankara road, Dutsinma - Tsaskiya road and other roads leading to the event ground.

The Command's Spokesperson, SP Gambo Isah who announced the restriction of the movement said the roads will be temporarily closed for six hours.

Isah however solicited the cooperation of the members of the public to comply with the restriction order.

According to him, "the Command wishes to announce the temporary closure of Dutsinma - Kankara road, Dutsinma - Tsaskiya road and other adjoining roads to the venue of the two events on 15th July 2021 from 13:00hrs - 18:00hrs. Members of the public, especially Commuters, herders, pedestrians and cyclists are hereby directed to use other alternative roads.

"The Command enjoins good people of the state to always partner and cooperates with the Nigeria Police Force and other sister agencies towards a successful and hitch-free commissioning ceremony," he said.

The President is expected to commission the Zobe Regional Water Supply Project in Dutsinma LGA and the newly built Tsaskiya road in Safana LGA of Katsina state.

Vanguard News Nigeria
El CPTPP abre nuevos mercados a los productos de nuestras empresas exportadoras. Contribuye a su intercionalizacion, que es pieza fundamental de nuestra politica comercial, siempre fomentando el empleo descentralizado?????? https://t.co/dPlvKszpSA
Presidente @FSagasti: Lo que necesita el pais ahora es la convergencia de diferentes puntos de vista y experiencias, unidos de tal forma que podamos forjar un nuevo Peru. Tenemos el derecho y deber de trabajar juntos.#200AnosDespues#UnidosHacemosHistoria pic.twitter.com/IXJWLrQyD8




In a press conference at the Government Palace, Ugarte affirmed that said schedule indicates that the vaccination of people aged 40-49 will continue in July and will be completed between August and September this year.





In addition, he said that the vaccination of people between 30 and 39 years old may begin next August and continue until October.





Meanwhile, the population aged 20 to 29 can get vaccinated starting September and the process should end in November, while the inoculation of people between 12 and 19 years old may begin in October and run until December.





He pointed out that the vaccination drive is aimed at 27.4 million people, including minors between the ages of 12 and 17.





Amount of vaccine doses





Ugarte reported that 59.1 million COVID-19 vaccine doses will be left for the next government to be used as of August.





"We are leaving enough vaccines for the next authorities to complete the vaccination of all (eligible) people and the process planning until the end of the year, to rely on a route of continuity," he said.





According to the minister, 19.6 million vaccines will be available until July this year, which will serve to immunize people aged 40-49 and move on to the next age groups.





(END) LIT/RMB/MVB

The Government of Peru has prepared the COVID-19 vaccination schedule that will be in effect until the end of the year according to the age group which will be passed on to the next administration to serve as a guide to continue with the immunization process in the country, Health Minister Oscar Ugarte has reported.Published: 7/15/2021




"The gross domestic product (GDP) has grown 48% in May this year from May 2020, but that is not a good comparison because the performance in May last year was quite bad. Therefore, the 48% rate should not be treated with exaggeration," the minister said.





"But, if we compare May this year with May 2019 a regular year the decline has been very small; that is to say, in May 2020, the Peruvian economy has already produced almost as much as it did in May 2019. We are on the right track," he added.





Mendoza believes that Peru's economic recovery has surpassed the Government's expectations, and the figures prove it.





"In the first quarter of this year, the growth rate was the same as that of the first quarter of 2019, which was a regular year. The May figure reported by the National Institute of Statistics and Informatics (INEI) on Thursday confirms the good performance of the economy," he explained.





The government official highlighted the strong recovery in construction and fishing sectors in May this year.





"The construction sector grew 20% compared to May 2019, which is a very high rate. The same is occurring with fishing, but this is not the case for mining or oil yet," he remarked.





Projections





The Cabinet member reiterated that the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) expects a 10% increase in GDP for this year, while the Central Reserve Bank (BCR) expects a 10.7% GDP growth rate.





(END) CNA/JJN/RMB/MVB
??En mayo de 2021, la #ProduccionNacional se incremento en 47,80% explicado por el resultado favorable de la mayoria de sectores productivos, con excepcion del Agropecuario.



??Mas informacion??

???Nota de prensa: https://t.co/07GZcZrhGi

??Informe Tecnico: https://t.co/EEPb16uIIh pic.twitter.com/Xx166ssawM
Presidente @FSagasti en @canalN_: No vamos a tolerar actos de violencia. Respetamos el derecho de manifestarse pacificamente, pero lo de hoy marca un quiebre. pic.twitter.com/2H4a4rEY81
Presidente @FSagasti en @radio_santarosa: Pese a las dificultades, este Gobierno demostro que se puede gobernar bien, con transparencia y que nuestro pais puede ser gobernado de una manera adecuada, sin corrupcion, con transparencia y respetando la independencia de los poderes. pic.twitter.com/PFH7i0slcZ
YEREVAN, JULY 15, ARMENPRESS. The flow of foreign nationals seeking to get vaccinated against COVID-19 in Armenia is viewed also as an opportunity of boosting tourism.

PR and Digital Marketing Expert at the Tourism Committee of Armenia Gayane Ayvazyan told Armenpress that currently a new term  vaccine tourism, is under circulation worldwide. Several countries are already using this opportunity, boosting the tourism sector which was the most affected from the pandemic.

We also see trends in this respect. There is a flow of Iranian nationals to Armenia in recent period. This shows that there is an interest towards the vaccination which can boost tourism, the field which was heavily affected by the pandemic, she said.

According to the recent order of the minister of healthcare of Armenia, only those foreign nationals, who will stay in Armenia over 10 days, can get vaccinated against COVID-19.

This 10-day timetable aims at showing more coordinated approach to the issue and boosting tourism. The new change allows tourism companies to form packages, enable tourists not only to tour across Armenia, but also to get vaccinated for free and return back home. This can give a new impetus for the field, the expert said.

According to her, this process is something new, the government is trying, learning and improving the gaps. Vaccine tourism is developing in the United Arab Emirates, the United States, New York in particular. Bali also wants to boost the field. Armenia as well can use this opportunity. Gayane Ayvazyan said these days there is a major flow of Iranian tourists in Armenia, but there are also Russian, Indian citizens among those who are being vaccinated.

Reporting by Anna Gziryan

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, JULY 15, ARMENPRESS. President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian sent a congratulatory letter to Vice President, Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum on the occasion of birthday, the Presidential Office told Armenpress.

President Sarkissian highly appreciated Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoums personal contribution to the strengthening of friendly ties and developing the mutual partnership between Armenia and the UAE.

I am convinced that the high-level relations between the two countries which are based on mutual trust will further expand and deepen in the future with joint efforts, involving new prospective cooperation programs, the letter reads.

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, JULY 15, ARMENPRESS. Caretaker Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan says Azerbaijan is trying to create an impression that Armenia opposes peace and the peace treaty.

Whereas Armenia has already publicly welcomed the April 13 statement of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs which in particular says, I quote: Having in mind the terms of their OSCE mandate and the aspirations of all the people of the region for a stable, peaceful, and prosperous future, the Co-Chairs stress that special attention should be paid to the achievement of a final comprehensive and sustainable settlement on the basis of the elements and principles well-known to the sides. In this respect, the Co-Chairs call on the parties to resume high-level political dialogue under the auspices of the Co-Chairs at the earliest opportunity. They reiterate their proposal to organize direct bilateral consultations under their auspices, in order for the sides to review and agree jointly upon a structured agenda, reflecting their priorities, without preconditions, he said.

Pashinyan reminded that the principles well-known to the sides, which are put on the basis of the settlement of the Karabakh conflict, are three  peoples right to self-determination, non-use of force or threat of force and territorial integrity.

This statement of the Co-Chairs is thus nothing more than a proposal of a roadmap for the establishment of peace in the region, and Armenia has welcomed this statement and positively reacted to its provisions. I want to officially state once again that Armenia is ready for the resumption of the peaceful settlement process of the Karabakh conflict with the format and content of the statement of the Co-Chairs. And I think that the Azerbaijani leadership would be better to listen to the calls of the mediators, instead of making unconstructive actions and statements, and to express a clear position over the statement of the Co-Chairs. Its clear that we will diligently pursue the exercise of the Artsakh peoples right to self-determination, Pashinyan said.

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, JULY 15, ARMENPRESS. A key factor which hinders the establishment of regional peace and stability is that, despite its commitments, Azerbaijan still has not returned all Armenian prisoners of war, Caretaker Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said at the Cabinet meeting today.

In any case, so far we have managed to return 104 POWs in cooperation with our international partners. We will continue working on returning our POWs. The comprehensive settlement of the Karabakh conflict, the demarcation and delimitation works and the unblocking of regional communications have been, are and will be among our priorities, he said.

According to him, with such unconstructive actions Azerbaijan not only violates the November 9 statement, but also tries to distort the process of unblocking the regional infrastructure as enshrined by the January 11 trilateral statement, the peace talks and the regional stability in general.

Azerbaijans such actions are a challenge to the international law and all those forces which are interested in establishment of peace and stability in the region, and we will continue our consultations and cooperation with those forces, he said.

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, JULY 15, ARMENPRESS. The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has announced that the 2021 Aurora Prize events willtake place in Venice, Italy, on October 8-10, 2021.In addition to the Ceremony, during which the 2021 Aurora Prize Laureate will be named and the Aurora Dialogues, there will be ample opportunities for the guests and participants, including members of the Aurora Prize Selection Committee, Aurora Humanitarians, and other representatives of Auroras community, to explore the rich Armenian legacy of this location, the IDeA Foundation told Armenpress.

The 2021 Aurora events in Venice will mark the first time the Aurora Prize Ceremony takes place in Europe and will highlight the extensive connection between this universally important cultural site and the spirit of Aurora, with its deeply embedded respect for the human life shared by every Armenian and every member of Aurora global movement alike. It will also be the first offline Aurora Prize Ceremony since the breakout of the global COVID-19 pandemic.

On October 19, 2020, the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative marked its 5th anniversary at a virtual fundraising event in New York City, dedicated to Auroras core philosophy of Gratitude in Action. Broadcast live from The New York Public Library, the event featured Aurora Co-Founder and member of the Aurora Prize Selection Committee Vartan Gregorian, who sadly passed away in April 2021.

The 2021 Aurora Prizemain events in Venice are intended to give a chance for our guests to come together for the first time since we were forced to bring all our events online. The last year and a half has been hard on everyone, and weve suffered many a painful loss. That is why weare very excited about the opportunity to express gratitude to our wonderful community, to bring global humanitarians to Venice and to introduce them to the Armenian legacy of this location and to its rich and fascinating history, said Noubar Afeyan, Co-Founder of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative.

The first Armenian communities were established in the region centuries ago, and the history of their successful development and integration echoes the complex and compound identity defining the modern Armenian people and their global impact. No matter where they were born, from Yerevan to Los Angeles, from Beirut to Moscow, all Armenians possess an acute understanding of the importance of kindness, humanity, and gratitude, strongly reflected in Auroras vision.

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is transforming the Armenian experience into a global movement based on the philosophy of Gratitude in Action, and we are very happy to have the 2021 Aurora Prize Ceremony in Venice, one of the most important Armenian heritage sites, and to highlight our presence in Europe after the success of last years US event.Aurora continues to successfully enhance the humanitarian angle, and we cant wait to share this special moment of celebrating modern-day heroes and the work they do with members of Auroras community, said Ruben Vardanyan, Co-Founder of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative.

In the meantime, nominations are still open for the 2022 Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity. Until October 31, 2021, any person can submit a nomination for candidates they believe have overcome great personal challenges to help others.

* * *

About the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is a foundation that seeks to address on-the-ground humanitarian challenges around the world with the focus on helping the most destitute. Its mission is rooted in the Armenian history as the Initiative was founded on behalf of the survivors of the Armenian Genocide and in gratitude to their saviors and strives to transform this experience into a global movement.

All Auroras activities are based on the universal concept of Gratitude in Action. It implies that countless people around the world who have received aid in time of crisis can best express their gratitude by offering similar assistance to someone else. By involving Aurora supporters around the world, this will become a global endeavor that will snowball to expand the circle of saviors and most importantly  the number of those saved.

Addressing urgent humanitarian challenges, the Initiative provides a second chance to those who need it the most. True to its vision  We believe that even in the darkest times, a brighter future is in the hands of those who are committed to giving others help and hope  Aurora welcomes all who embrace this philosophy.

This eight-year commitment (2015 to 2023, in remembrance of the eight years of the Armenian Genocide 1915-1923) aims to promote action-based philanthropy focused on tangible results. This is achieved through the Initiatives various programs: Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity, Aurora for Artsakh, #AraratChallenge movement, Aurora Dialogues, Aurora Grants, Aurora Community, Aurora Index, and the 100 LIVES Initiative.

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is the vision of philanthropists Vartan Gregorian, Noubar Afeyan and Ruben Vardanyan who have been joined by thousands of supporters and partners. Auroras Chair, Dr. Tom Catena, draws on his experience as a surgeon, veteran, humanitarian and the 2017 Aurora Prize laureate to spread the message of Gratitude in Action to a global audience.

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is represented by three organizations  the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative Foundation, Inc. (New York, USA), the 100 Lives Foundation (Geneva, Switzerland) and the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative Charitable Foundation (Yerevan, Armenia).

About the Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity

The Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity is a global humanitarian award. Its mission is to recognize and support those who risk their own lives, health or freedom to save the lives, health or freedom of others suffering as a result of violent conflict, atrocity crimes or other major human rights violations. The Aurora Prize Laureate is selected based on the nominees demonstration of courage, commitment and impact.

On behalf of the survivors of the Armenian Genocide and in gratitude to their saviors, an Aurora Prize Laureate is honored each year between 2015 and 2023 (in remembrance of the eight years of the Armenian Genocide 1915-1923) with a US $1,000,000 award, which gives the Laureate a unique opportunity to continue the cycle of giving and to support the organizations that have inspired their humanitarian action.

The Aurora Prize Selection Committee is comprised of Nobel Laureates Shirin Ebadi and Leymah Gbowee; former president of Ireland Mary Robinson; human rights activist Hina Jilani; former president of Mexico Ernesto Zedillo; Medecins Sans Frontieres Co-founder and former foreign minister of France Bernard Kouchner; former CEO of Unilever and Co-founder and Chair of IMAGINE Paul Polman; human rights activist and Co-founder of The SentryJohn Prendergast and President of the Carnegie Corporation of New York Vartan Gregorian (1934-2021). The Committee is chaired by the Director of the Institute of Global Health Innovation at Imperial College London Lord Ara Darzi.

World famous peace and human rights activist Benjamin Ferencz and Academy Award-winning actor and humanitarian George Clooney are the Committees Honorary Co-Chairs, and its honorary members include two-time President of Costa Rica and Nobel Laureate Oscar Arias; Artistic and General Director of Mariinsky Theatre and Principal Conductor of the Munich Philharmoniker Valery Gergiev and former foreign minister of Australia and President Emeritus of the International Crisis Group Gareth Evans.

We honor the memory of Elie Wiesel (1928-2016), inaugural Selection Committee Co-Chair, President of the Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity; Nobel Laureate.
YEREVAN, JULY 15, ARMENPRESS. Newly-elected President of Iran Sayyid Ebrahim Raisi has addressed a message to Armenias caretaker Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, the Armenian Embassy in Iran reports.

I highly appreciate your sincere congratulation on my election as President of Iran.

The relations between Iran and Armenia are based on ancient cultural relations between the two nations which have always been friendly. The two countries same positions on international and regional matters, which were accompanied by constructive cooperation, are indicators of the importance of our relations.

The common challenges have made inevitable the deepening of the mutual cooperation between the two countries, aimed at ensuring peace and preserving stability in the region, the message reads.

The President-elect of Iran expressed hope that the two sides will be able to take influential steps for strengthening the cooperation in different areas.

I wish you health and happiness, and to the government and the people of Armenia  success and welfare, the message says.

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, JULY 15, ARMENPRESS. Caretaker Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan received Anthony Barsamian, Co-Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Armenian Assembly of America and head of the regional office of the Assembly Arpi Vardanyan. Issues related to the Motherland-Diaspora relations and pan-Armenian agenda were discussed at the meeting.

As ARMENPRESS was informed from the Office of the Prime Minister, Nikol Pashinyan welcomed the guests and said, We have passed through a rather difficult period and I think we have reached a new point not only in Armenia and Artsakh as a result of the well-known developments, but also the developments outside Armenia have changed and re-formulated the agendas, I mean in the context of the activities of the Armenian Assembly of America, I mean the fact of the recognition of the Armenian Genocide by the President of the USA, which is a new reality.

I also think that it's important to compare our preceptions on how the Motherland-Diaspora relations should be, what we should do in this new period, what we should continue doing like in the past and where we need some changes and reconsiderations. This and other similar meetings are important for comparing our perceptions and views, so as we could outline our direction and goals. I think we have a new reality, but that reality needs to be defined, what does it mean and what new goals and tasks should be set in this new reality, what are the responsibilities of the Armenian Government and what are the responsibilities of the Diaspora organizations and how those relations should be organized. I am glad we have the opportunity to discuss those issues''.

Anthony Barsamian thanked Nikol Pashinyan for the reception and said, ''Mr. Prime Minister, I am thankful for the reception. First of all, we offer condolences to the country and personally you, we visited Yerablur pantheon, the tombs of the victims. The Armenian community of the USA shares the grief of the loss, since it is directly related to us.

We have come to congratulate you on the completion of the elections, to meet you and the members of the new Government, to listen to your vision. As American-Armenians, we wish the best to this country. We will work, we will guarantee our support to Armenia, we will work with different parliamentary parties, we will work with you as the leader of the country, in order to achieve the best for the country. We are cooperating also with your staff, as in the recent years, and now and in the future we will continue our joint work.

I must say that the Biden's administration has a positive attitude towards us. We will continue to work to deepen Armenian-American cooperation and strengthen Armenia's role in the region''.
YEREVAN, JULY 15, ARMENPRESS. Acting Minister of High-tech Industry of Armenia Hayk Chobanyan received on July 15 the delegation led by Ambassador of China to Armenia Fan Yong.

As ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the Ministry, greeting the guests, Hayk Chobanyan noted that its extremely important for Armenia to develop high technology industry with the goal of ensuring the countrys development and security, and in this context, cooperation with China, as a developed industrial country, is of key importance. Highly praising China's achievements in the fields of high technologies, digitalization, innovation, military industry, the Acting Minister noted that Armenia is interested in developing cooperation with China in all directions.

Emphasizing the educational component, Chobanyan suggested the Ambassador to consider the possibility of implementing joint educational programs with the National Polytechnic University of Armenia and Chinese universities. The acting minister invited the ambassador and Chinese companies to participate in the Digitec Expo exhibition.

Ambassador Fan Yong thanked for the reception and said that he has also talked about the importance of the Armenian-Chinese cooperation in high technologies during the meetings with the Armenian PM and Deputy PM. The Ambassador expressed readiness, in addition to educational institutions, to promote the development of cooperation with Chinese business companies.

The interlocutors also referred to the possibilities of implementing joint research programs on the use of technologies in high-tech industry, healthcare, agriculture, renewable energy, and other fields.
YEREVAN, JULY 15, ARMENPRESS. In order to verify the information spread on social networks about the shootings from Shushi direction on July 15, the staff of the Artsakh Human Rights Defender collected facts about the incident. ARMENPRESS reports Artsakh Human Rights Defender Gegham Stepanyan wrote on his Facebook page that their staff visited Armenavan district of Stepanakert. During the meeting with the residents, the fact was confirmed that at about 17:00, the Azerbaijani side fired short shots 4-5 times. The information was also confirmed by the relevant state bodies.

''The Russian peace-keeping forces have been informed about the incident. According to the information received from the Ministry of Health and from the Stepanakert military hospital, there are no casualties. By grossly violating the trilateral declaration on ceasefire, the Azerbaijani side resorts to provocative measures more frequently in the recent days, aiming to continuously intimidate the civilian population and forming an atmosphere of fear and tension. The introduction of clear mechanisms for investigating incidents is simply a necessity to curb the aspirations of the Azerbaijani side and rule out provocations.

Azerbaijani encroachments on the physical and mental immunity of the people of Artsakh should receive adequate assessments by the Russian peacekeepers and the international community, inclyuding public assessments'', Gegham Stepanyan wrote.
YEREVAN, JULY 15, ARMENPRESS. The Defense Ministry of Armenia assesses the statement issued by the Azerbaijani defense ministry that allegedly the Armenian armed forces opened fire against Azerbaijani positions from the positions of Gegharkunik Province as a provocative act.

ARMENPRESS reports the statement issued by the Defense Ministry of Armenia reads as follows,

''The defense ministry of Azerbaijan, which has started to spread disinformation nearly on daily basis, today also did not refrain from provocative information actions.

Particularly, the defense ministry of that country issued a statement, according to which the units of the Armenian armed forces opened fire at the Azerbaijani positions from the military positions in Gegharkunik Province on July 15.

The information does not correspond to reality. The Armenian armed forces have not violated the ceasefire regime. The Armenian units only take measures aimed at countering the actions of the adversary in case of necessity''.
MELBOURNE, Australia, July 15, 2021--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Rio Tinto Chief Executive Jakob Stausholm, said: "The global economy, in particular China, recovered strongly and we are intensely focused on servicing our customers with as much product as we can. However, we faced some challenges in the first half notably at our Pilbara operations, which were impacted by replacement mine tie-ins and materially higher rainfall. Heightened COVID-19 constraints, which resulted in numerous travel restrictions, added further pressure on the business and limited our ability to access additional people, particularly in Western Australia and Mongolia, in order to deliver operational improvements or maintenance initiatives and accelerate projects.

"Safety is our first priority and our performance in this area remains robust in challenging conditions. However, as identified shortly after my appointment, operationally we are not where we want to be. Our first half performance has reaffirmed my belief that we have identified the right priorities to strengthen the business: to become the best operator, strive for impeccable ESG credentials, excel in development and secure a strong social licence. We have made initial progress against our priorities, but a large volume of work remains to make Rio Tinto even stronger, so we can continue to deliver superior returns to shareholders, invest in sustaining and growing our portfolio, and make a broader contribution to society."

Production* Quarter 2

2021 vs Q2

2020 vs Q1

2021 H1

2021 vs HY

2020 Pilbara iron ore shipments (100% basis) (Mt) 76.3 -12% -2% 154.1 -3% Pilbara iron ore production (100% basis) (Mt) 75.9 -9% -1% 152.3 -5% Bauxite (Mt) 13.7 -6% +1% 27.3 -4% Aluminium (kt) 816 +4% +2% 1,619 +3% Mined copper (kt) 115.5 -13% -4% 236.1 -11% Titanium dioxide slag (kt) 298 +14% +7% 577 +4% IOC iron ore pellets & concentrate (Mt) 2.7 -2% +16% 5.1 -5% *Rio Tinto share unless otherwise stated

Q2 Operational update

Our colleague Nico Swart was tragically killed in a shooting incident whilst driving to work at Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) in South Africa on 24 May. Our sympathies are with Nico's family and we are offering ongoing support to his family, friends and colleagues.

We continue to prioritise the safety of our people and communities as some regions experience a resurgence of COVID-19. We have exceeded 30 months without a fatality on site but our all injury frequency rate (AIFR) of 0.39 has seen a slight increase versus the second quarter of 2020 (0.37), and prior quarter (0.35), which underlines that there is no room for complacency.

We expect iron ore shipments to be at the low end of the guidance range which remains subject to COVID-19 disruptions, tie-in and ramp up of brownfield replacement mines and management of cultural heritage. Mined copper and bauxite production is expected to be at the low end of the guidance range. Full year titanium dioxide slag production guidance has been removed as a result of risks around the timing of resumption of operations at RBM in South Africa, due to an escalation in the security situation. We are working with the local and federal governments and police to ensure we can safely resume operations.

Pilbara iron ore production of 75.9 million tonnes (100% basis) was 9% lower than the second quarter of 2020 due to above average rainfall in the West Pilbara, shutdowns to enable replacement mines to be tied in, processing plant availability, and cultural heritage management. Shipments of 76.3 million tonnes (100% basis) were 12% lower than the second quarter of 2020 with some additional drawdown of inventories. Ongoing COVID-19 restrictions and a tight labour market have further impacted our ability to access experienced contractors and particular skill sets.

Bauxite production of 13.7 million tonnes was 6% lower than the second quarter of 2020 due to ongoing system instability following severe wet weather in Eastern Australia in the first quarter.

Aluminium production of 0.8 million tonnes was 4% higher than the second quarter of 2020, underpinned by the ISAL smelter in Iceland and the Becancour smelter in Quebec operating at full capacity, and the Kitimat smelter in British Columbia nearing completion of its pot relining cycle.

Mined copper production of 115.5 thousand tonnes was 13% lower than the second quarter of 2020, with lower recoveries and throughput at Escondida as a result of the prolonged impact of COVID-19, and a planned relocation of the in-pit crusher at Kennecott in April. On 31 May, an anticipated slope failure occurred in the south east wall of the Bingham Canyon pit at Kennecott. There were no injuries or damage to equipment as the slide was accurately predicted by our geotechnical experts. Mining in the affected area restarted progressively in June. No ore has been sterilised and we expect to recover the material from the slide which is largely copper bearing ore. Mining rates will however be slower due to the size distribution of the material, and therefore some high-grade production scheduled for late 2021 will be deferred to 2022.

Titanium dioxide slag production of 298 thousand tonnes was 14% higher than the second quarter of 2020 due to consistent production at the Fer et Titane (RTFT) metallurgical complex in Quebec. Following weeks of violent disruptions, our RBM operations have been significantly hampered. As a result, we have declared force majeure, with all operations curtailed.

Production of pellets and concentrate at Iron Ore Company of Canada (IOC) was 2% lower than the second quarter of 2020 due to labour and equipment availability issues impacting product feed. Force majeure declared in April following the fire at the port has been lifted.

On 17 June, Peter Cunningham was appointed as Chief Financial Officer with immediate effect. Peter also joined the Rio Tinto Board as an executive director at the same time. On 7 July, we announced the appointment of Isabelle Deschamps who will join on 25 October as Chief Legal Officer & External Affairs, succeeding Barbara Levi.

On 4 June, we announced the appointment of Ben Wyatt as a non-executive director of the Rio Tinto Board. Mr Wyatt, an Australian citizen, and former Treasurer and Aboriginal Affairs Minister in the Western Australian Government, will join the Board on 1 September 2021.

In the second quarter, we entered into four partnerships to progress our work to decarbonise our value chain. These include one with the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) to study whether hydrogen can replace natural gas in alumina refineries to reduce emissions, and one with POSCO to jointly explore, develop and demonstrate technologies to transition to a low-carbon emission steel value chain.

The full second quarter production results are available here.

Story continues

This announcement is authorised for release to the market by Steve Allen, Rio Tintos Group Company Secretary.

LEI: 213800YOEO5OQ72G2R82

Classification: 3.1 Additional regulated information required to be disclosed under the laws of a Member State

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715006088/en/

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Category: General
Catt Sadler shared surprising news with fans on Tuesday: She has a breakthrough COVID-19 infection  and she's stressing the importance of getting vaccinated against the virus.

The entertainment reporter, who said she's fully vaccinated, revealed her diagnosis on Instagram Tuesday alongside a photo of herself in bed. "Im fully vaccinated and I have Covid," she wrote in the caption. "Im telling you this so that you understand that the pandemic is very much NOT over." Sadler also said that she has the Delta variant, which is responsible for outbreaks across the country. "Delta is relentless and highly contagious and grabbed ahold of me even after getting vaccinated," she said.

Catt Sadler says she has COVID-19 after getting vaccinated. (Photo by Gregg DeGuire/FilmMagic)

Sadler said she was "caring for someone who contracted COVID," although they thought it was "just the flu" at the time. "I did come into close contact with the virus, but I wore a mask, and again I'm fully vaccinated," she said. "I assumed I would be fine. Well I'm not. I'm one of many breakthrough cases that we are seeing more of each and every day."

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Sadler said that her symptoms are "not mild," listing off two days of fever, a "throbbing" head, "extreme congestion," "serious fatigue" and "even some weird puss coming out of my eye" as examples.

"If you are not vaccinated and not wearing a mask, I assure you you don't want to feel like this and not only are you bound to get sick eventually, you'll be spreading it to others," she wrote. "As in my case  I got this from someone who wasn't vaccinated :/."

Sadler then offered up this advice: "If you are vaccinated, don't let your guard down. If you're in crowds or indoors in public, I highly recommend taking the extra precaution of wearing a mask." She stressed that the COVID-19 vaccine "isn't [fool]-proof," adding, "vaccines lessen the likelihood of hospitalization and death, but you can still catch this thing. So continue to protect yourselves."

Story continues

As of May 1, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention transitioned from monitoring all reported COVID-19 cases to focus on those where people were hospitalized or died from breakthrough cases.

According to CDC data, 4,909 people in the United States have been hospitalized with breakthrough cases of COVID-19 and 988 have died as of July 6.

As of Tuesday, nearly 160 million Americans have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The Delta variant, which is listed as a "variant of concern" by the CDC, now makes up more than 31 percent of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., per CDC data.

Sadler's news comes just days after reports of a series of breakthrough COVID-19 infections in the Massachusetts resort town of Provincetown. "Overwhelmingly, the affected individuals have been fully vaccinated for COVID-19," reads a statement from the Barnstable County Department of Health issued on Tuesday. "The moderate intensity of symptoms indicates that the vaccines are working as predicted."

Other reports of breakthrough cases have popped up across the country, including in a fully vaccinated California man who contracted the virus during a trip to Las Vegas. Doctors in Kansas also report a slight uptick in breakthrough COVID-19 cases, particularly in people with compromised immune systems or underlying health issues. "It's a small number of patients," University of Kansas Health System medical director Steve Stites told Kansas City, Mo., news station KMBC-TV.

"It's misleading to just talk about the number of breakthrough infections rather than the percentage  which is incredibly low," one infectious disease expert, Dr. Amesh Adalja, senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, tells Yahoo Life. "No vaccine is 100 percent protective, and it is extremely unlikely, as evidenced by the percentage, that a breakthrough infection occurs."

Dr. Richard Watkins, an infectious disease physician and professor of internal medicine at the Northeast Ohio Medical University, agrees. "Breakthrough infections are rare, and if it does happen, there is almost no risk of death if a person is vaccinated."

According to clinical trial data, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is 95 percent effective at preventing symptomatic COVID-19 infections, the Moderna vaccine is 94.1 percent effective and the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is 66 percent effective (but 100 percent effective against hospitalizations and deaths).

But people also have individual responses to a vaccine, a pulmonary critical care expert, Dr. Reynold Panettieri, director of the Institute for Translational Medicine and Science at Rutgers University, tells Yahoo Life. "Not all individuals get the same immune response to a vaccine, especially the elderly and those with immunosuppression," he says.

Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease specialist and professor at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, agrees. "People who are frail and immunocompromised wont get the benefits of 95 percent protection, because their immune systems may not respond as well," he says. "Instead, they may get 80 percent protection."

Theres also the possibility that a COVID-19 variant could "evade protection of the vaccine, in part," Schaffner says. It's unclear at this point whether the Delta variant is more likely to infect fully vaccinated people than other variants, but Adalja points out that Delta is becoming the "dominant version" of the virus in the U.S. "So, if someone is to be infected whether it is a breakthrough or an ordinary infection, its likely to be with a Delta variant," he says.

Doctors stress that while breakthrough infections can happen, they're not common and usually not serious. "Most breakthrough infections, when they do occur, are mild," Adalja says.

Over time and as more people are vaccinated against COVID-19, it's expected that these breakthrough cases will become even less common, Schaffner says. "The virus will have more difficulty finding new people to infect as more people become protected from the vaccine," he says. "Thats the whole concept of herd immunity."

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A Sydney Covid-19 patient has urged people to listen to medical advice and take the vaccine rollout seriously in a video filmed from his hospital bed.

The man, known as Khaled Elmasri, 47, is a patient at Belmore Medical.

Dr Jamal Rifi, who treated him, said the 47-year-old had to be admitted to intensive care as he struggled to breathe.

In a video, Dr Rifi, speaking in Arabic, says Mr Elmasri wishes to share a message so people understand the severity of coronavirus from someone who got very sick.

Khaled Elmasri, 47, speaks about Covid-19 from hospital in Sydney. Source: Central and Eastern Sydney PHN

Mr Elmasri says he knew coronavirus was a serious disease but he didn't take it seriously enough.

I was careful but I dont think I was careful enough, Mr Elmasri says.

I should have committed 100 per cent.

Mr Elmasri says its only now after a few days that he is once again able to speak and breathe a bit more normally.

Its really important to take advice from doctors and follow their medical advice, he says.

Take the vaccine programme seriously. I didnt take it seriously enough to put my name down for a vaccine beforehand. With hindsight I feel I should have done that. I have learnt my lesson the hard way.

Mr Elmasri says he is now going to get vaccinated.

Photos of Covid patients inside Sydney hospital

As of Wednesday, 71 people in NSW are being treated for coronavirus in hospital with 20 of those in intensive care and four on ventilators.

Images captured by Australian photojournalist Kate Geraghty have offered a rare glimpse at life inside Sydneys hospitals during the pandemic.

Ms Geraghty snapped photos from inside St Vincents Hospital on Tuesday with the images shared on the hospitals Instagram page.

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Two men are pictured with the virus with one of them requiring an oxygen mask to breathe.

Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant told reporters on Wednesday, one person in the ICU was aged in their 20s and two in their 30s.

Story continues

The reason I take the time to read out those age profiles, it really is to dispel the misconception that Covid is mild and younger age groups it can impact, she said.

Yes it is less likely to lead to hospitalisations in younger age groups but it still can be a serious illness [causing] admission to ICU ... so it's important to keep ourselves and loved ones safe so please follow the public health advice.

NSW reported 97 new cases of Covid-19 on Wednesday with lockdown extended a further two weeks.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

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Singapore has so far suffered only a mild coronavirus outbreak

Singapore police are investigating several karaoke bars for breaching coronavirus restrictions and have arrested 20 foreign women for alleged "vice-related activities" after an outbreak linked to the nightspots, authorities said.

The city-state has seen a spike in cases this week connected to the bars -- including a 10-month high of local transmissions on Wednesday -- and the number of infections in the cluster now stands at 87.

A staple of Singapore nightlife, the karaoke bars typically have blacked-out windows and are frequented by foreign female "hostesses".

Police said in a statement late Wednesday they were investigating three nightspots for breaching virus measures by allegedly providing "hostessing services".

Under current virus restrictions, the bars were only supposed to be operating in a limited fashion, providing food and drinks.

Twenty women, aged 20 to 34, from South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, have been arrested for "suspected involvement in vice-related activities" at the bars, police said.

The first reported infection in the cluster was a Vietnamese hostess on a short-term visitor pass to Singapore who had been to many of the bars, officials said.

Another infection linked to the cluster was a passenger on a cruise, which was forced to return to Singapore earlier than scheduled Wednesday after the case was detected.

Singapore has so far suffered only a mild outbreak, but Health Minister Ong Ye Kung warned there was "potentially a very big cluster" emerging from the nightspots.

"We knew about cases like these happening in Korea's and Hong Kong's nightlife scene where people come very close together, some with hostesses, which led to big clusters," he told a press conference.

"We have never allowed such activities for more than one year. So for this to happen has been troubling and disappointing."

The government is encouraging people who have visited certain karaoke bars since June 29 to get virus tests, which they have promised will be confidential.

cla/sr/leg
A SoftBank mobile shop in the Ginza shopping district in Tokyo, Japan. Photo: Yuki Iwamura/ AFP via Getty

Asian and Middle Eastern venture capital investment in UK tech startups accelerating in 2020, with Japan's SoftBank (SFTBY) leading the way.

Tech startups received nearly twice the amount of Asian capital in the first six months of 2021 as they did during 2020, with Asian investment in the UK exceeding 1.7bn ($2.4bn) in 2021, compared with 1bn last year. This equates to 13.2% of total investments made in the the UK.

This year is on track to be an even better year than 2020 for investment flows from Asia to the UK, according to data from Dealroom.co for the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sports Digital Economy Council.

Other big Asian investors in the UK in 2020 included: Singapore's GIC and Temasek, Hong Kong's DST Global, and Chinese tech giant Tencent (TCEHY).

There are currently 577 UK startups with Asian investors, including unicorns with a multi-billion dollar valuation like Checkout.com and listed tech companies like Farfetch (FTCH), according to the report.

Other fast-growing UK tech firms backed by Asian investment include eToro, Deliveroo (ROO.L), Cazoo, and Arrival (ARVL). The three most attractive sectors for Eastern capital are fintech, software enterprise and health.

Asian investors took part in a record number of deals in the UK last year, totalling 106, according to figures from Dealroom.co. The total for 2021 has already reached 95. They were involved in 28 fintech deals in 2020 alone, as well as 18 software enterprise deals and 17 healthtech deals.

Venture capital (VC) investment in the UK has reached 12.3bn in the first half of 2021, compared with 10.8bn for the whole of 2020.

Asian investment in UK tech startups in 2016 compared with 2020. Image: Dealroom.co

This strong flow of capital from East to West saw Europe become the fastest growing major region by VC investment, faster than the US, China and Asia. The continent has the most unicorn cities with 170 cities playing host to at least one billion-dollar firm.

"The UK tech sector is home to the most innovative, most exciting and most globally scalable startups in the world, so its no surprise Asian investors are recognising just what a wealth of talent we have here," said Matt Warman, minister for digital infrastructure.

Story continues

Warman added: "Its also a huge compliment to have a region that has been at the forefront of tech and innovation for decades to believe so strongly in what weve built here in the UK and to want to be a part of that."

Investors from the Middle East, also included in Asian investment data, have stepped up their investment in the UK, challenging the dominance of Japan in particular.

Between 2016 and 2020, Japans investment in UK tech has shrunk from 72% to 24%, as other investors in the region have stepped up their backing for UK tech startups and scaleups.

Investors from this region include the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, which invested in Cinch, and the Qatar Investment Authority, which were involved in UK mega rounds including Starling Bank and Tandem.

"The UKs tech sector is thriving like never before and attracting the attention of forward-thinking Asian investors, in particular those long-term investors of sovereign wealth funds and pension funds," said Julia Hawkins, general partner at LocalGlobe. "If the benefits of the immense increase in value in tech are to be shared across UK society, our own long-term investors, pension funds and institutions need to wake up to the future economic power houses being built on their doorstep."

Read more: UK enjoys COVID recession wealth boom as savings rise by 200bn

The strong flow of investment is complemented by similar flows the other way, with leading UK-based venture capital firms increasingly investing in startups in Southeast Asia in particular.

In the last 18 months, VC firms headquartered in the UK invested 1.45bn in Asian startups. In 2020, the total was 720m over the course of the year  a figure that has already been reached in the first half of 2021.

This trend is led by the UKs most active investors in Asian startups including Baillie Gifford, Eight Roads Ventures, Index Ventures (US-UK), RTP Global, and LightRock.

Watch: What are SPACs?
The other population of hydrilla in Cayuga County, at Dons Marina in King Ferry, was dredged in early 2019. After the dredging, weekly monitoring was carried out by staff of the Finger Lakes Institute at Hobart and William Smith Colleges, and they found a small patch of hydrilla plants in that area that spring. During the summer of 2019, the Army Corps of Engineers applied endothall in a granular form. Hydrilla has not been found in any surveys of this area since 2019.

Since it seems highly likely that hydrilla will be found in the future at additional sites around Cayuga Lake, carried and dropped by boats and birds, we want to find it early, so we can take measures to stop it from proliferating. We also want to prevent its movement to other area lakes and rivers. One thing you can do to help us find any new patches of hydrilla is to become a hydrilla hunter. Information on how to identify and report hydrilla can be found on the Cayuga Lake Watershed Networks webpage at cayugalake.org. There are also hydrilla information boxes managed by the Cayuga Lake Watershed Network at the launches, marinas and parks near the present treatment areas in the village of Aurora; at Stewart Park, Cass Park and the Cornell Sailing Center in Ithaca; and in the Myers Park and Salt Point areas in Lansing.
"Putting our culinary institute on one of the key marquees in this town, to be able to show how much we have progressed ... we are not going to stop here," Durant said.

Soules admitted that there were challenges, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The initial plan was to open the institute last fall, but the ongoing health crisis prevented that from happening.

Despite those hurdles, Soules revealed that the project came $100,000 under budget.

For Soules, the facility is a place for students and young entrepreneurs to find their spirit and an "escape for choice and freedom and expression through one's chosen craft."

"The culinary institute is a house, a home, a hope, an opportunity," he said. "A living, breathing destination for education, life skills for today, the future and beyond."

Through the institute, Cayuga Community College will offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in culinary arts. Durant said the program has received at least 30 applications for the fall semester. Some of the students who will participate in the program attended Wednesday's ceremony.
The Syracuse-based brigade of the New York Army National Guard is getting a new leader.

According to a news release, Col. Sean Flynn, a veteran of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, who served in the Operation World Trade Center response to the 9/11 terror attacks, will take command of the New York Army National Guard's 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team during a ceremony at Fort Drum on Saturday.

Flynn will take over from Col. Robert Charlesworth who has headed the brigade since 2019.

The 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team is headquartered in Syracuse and is a light infantry brigade of more than 4,000 soldiers, composed of three infantry battalions, a cavalry squadron, an artillery battalion, a brigade engineer battalion and a support battalion. Elements of the brigade are located across New York from Long Island to Jamestown.

A traditional military change of command in which the flag of the 27th Brigade will be transferred to Flynn Saturday, signifying the transfer of authority for the 4,000 soldiers of the brigade.

"In this position Colonel Flynn will be a tremendous commander, mentor and Soldier who will represent the brigade at the highest and most professional level," Major Gen. Thomas Spencer, commander of the 42nd Infantry Division, said in a statement.
HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

The Arkansas Supreme Court issued an order last year requiring any new eviction complaints to state that they would not be prevented by a moratorium under the CARES Act. That moratorium, which covered federally subsidized mortgages or properties, ended last July. The state Supreme Court did not issue a similar order regarding the CDC moratorium, which took effect in September.

Kendall Lewellen, managing attorney at the Center for Arkansas Legal Services, said eviction procedures vary across the state but that for the most part, she has seen courts enforcing the CDC's moratorium by allowing a hearing on whether the tenant qualifies for protection under the moratorium. If so, the court either schedules another hearing for after the moratorium expires or gives the landlord a court order that doesn't take effect until after the moratorium expires.

HOW AFFORDABLE ARE THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

There is a shortage of affordable rental homes available to low income households in Arkansas, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition. It says the annual household income needed to rent a two-bedroom home in Arkansas is $29,514.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

A surge in homelessness and evictions is possible, but it's unclear what the scale of it would be. One indication of the scope of the problem is recent census data showing that more than 65,500 Arkansas residents said they were very likely or somewhat likely to be evicted within two months.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Quince was buried last month in a private cemetery plot arranged by Staten Island public administrator Edwina Frances Martin, an official who handles some estates. Her office said no relatives had come forward to make arrangements for Quince, and officials didn't want to postpone laying her to rest any longer but could continue trying to connect with her kin. The agency also posts a list of its burials in case families or friends are looking for information.

The Associated Press reached her brother Paul, who said that the family doesn't keep in close touch and that he didn't know of her death until a reporter contacted him.

After a rough childhood on Staten Island, Quince left home at an early age and briefly pursued a military career in the late 1970s, Paul Quince said. She lived in places including Hawaii and Puerto Rico, ultimately returning to New York, he said.

She struggled for decades with homelessness, drug use and other problems, according to her bio on the Womens Forum website.

She had a tough life, her brother said, but she always wanted to go to school."

She was working toward it the last time he saw her, at lunch about five years ago, he said. She mentioned that she had applied to college and sought a scholarship.
We categorically condemn Irans dangerous and despicable reported plot to kidnap a U.S. citizen on U.S. soil, she said.

She said law enforcement actions like those announced Tuesday were part of a strategy to defend U.S. citizens and interests that includes actions taken to defend U.S. forces from Iranian-backed militant groups and diplomatic efforts to constrain Iran's nuclear program.

The indictment in Manhattan federal court described the plot as part of a wider plan to lure three individuals in Canada and a fifth person in the United Kingdom, along with individuals in the United Arab Emirates, to Iran.

The identities of the alleged victims were not released but Brooklyn-based Masih Alinejad confirmed that authorities had told her she was among the targets.

I knew that this is the nature of the Islamic Republic, you know, kidnapping people, arresting people, torturing people, killing people. But I couldnt believe it that this is going to happen to me in United States of America, Alinejad told The Associated Press.
Renault India on Thursday has announced that it has commenced exports of its sub-four metre compact SUV Kiger to Nepal. The automaker has sent 122 Kiger models to the Himalayan country, where the French auto manufacturer has 15 retail outlets. Also, Renault has said that it plans to expand the export network to other SAARC countries.

(Also Read: Renault Megane EV to debut in September 2021 in Munich)

The B-segment Renault compact SUV is based on the Renault Kwid. The Kiger has been developed by the automaker's French and Indian engineering teams. The car has been specially developed keeping emerging markets like India in focus, as Renault claimed earlier. It has been produced locally as well.

The compact SUV gets pure vision LED headlamps with LED DRLs, C-shaped LED taillights, diamond-cut alloy wheels, shark-fin antenna etc. Inside the cabin, it gets 20.32 cm floating touchscreen with wireless smartphone replication, ARKAMYS audio system, wireless charging technology etc.

The Renault Kiger is available in four different trim options - RXE, RXL, RXT and RXZ. It gets a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine as the power source. The engine is available with three different transmission options - a manual gearbox, an Easy-R AMT and an X-Tronic CVT.

Talking about Kiger compact SUV's export commencement to Nepal, Venkatram Mamillapalle, Country CEO & Managing Director, Renault India Operations has said that the car has already established itself as a breakthrough product and has seen tremendous acceptance amongst a wide set of car buyers.

Meanwhile, the French automaker has said that besides focusing on product portfolio expansion, it is also increasing network coverage to reach more customers. The automaker claims that currently, it has more than 500 sales and service touchpoints in India, including over 200 service centres.
LOS ANGELES  Award-winning adult creators Callum & Cole have pledged to raise money for Pineapple Support, the adult industrys leading mental health resource, by climbing Ben Nevis, Britain's tallest mountain.



The duo launched a Givelively fundraising page for those that wish to support their venture, setting an initial goal to raise $1,500 in donations for Pineapple Support. "We decided to take on the 7-9 hour climb to raise money for a charity thats close to both of our hearts," says Cole.



"Mental health is really close to home for me; its something Ive battled with most of my life," says Callum. "Im in a good place now and have been for the last few years. Something I found that brings me peace is my love for the outdoors and this climb will be a challenge but one Im buzzing to achieve. I truly understand the important role Pineapple Support plays in our industry and would love to use this opportunity to support them in supporting others."



Pineapple Support was founded by British performer Leya Tanit in 2018, after a string of losses in the adult industry from depression and other mental illnesses. The organization, which is a qualified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization in the United States and a registered charity in the UK, has so far connected over 2000 adult performers to mental health services, including free and low-cost, therapy, counseling and emotional support.



"Im both touched and inspired by Callum & Coles generosity with this brave fundraiser, says Tanit. The challenge theyve set themselves is also a wonderful example of how setting goals, helping others, exercising and enjoying time outdoors can have an incredibly powerful effect on mental health. The entire Pineapple team is behind you, Callum & Cole, and we thank you for undertaking this adventure to give back to your community.



Those wishing to donate or find out more information should visit Callum & Coles fundraiser page on Givelively.

Photo via Instagram @callumxcole
Neville dispenses quickly with the early stuff  Bourdain dropping out of college, washing dishes in Cape Cod  even his years as chef at Manhattans Brasserie Les Halles. It really starts at age 44, when Kitchen Confidential, his wickedly funny memoir about the underbelly of the restaurant world, catapults him into stardom and a life as a globetrotting raconteur bold enough to swallow a still-beating cobra heart or a sheeps testicle.

The transformation is dizzying: People are shouting to Bourdain in the streets. Hes sitting down with Letterman, and with Oprah. Theyre saying Brad Pitt wants to play him. It was like he died and was reborn, says his brother, Chris Bourdain.

In footage from his various shows, which culminated with Parts Unknown on CNN, we accompany Bourdain to an idyllic lunch in Provence with chef-buddy Eric Ripert, or to Vietnam, where he guzzles that cobra heart. Or to Haiti, where an episode on local cuisine leads to a chaotic scene of hungry youths seeking food. In a 2006 episode of No Reservations shot in Beirut, violence flares up between Israel and Hezbollah, and the crew is left to lounge by a pool for days while conflict rages. I had begun to believe the dinner table was the great leveler, Bourdain says. Now Im not so sure.
Rose Houk lives at the base of Mars Hill, where A.E. Douglass pioneered the science of tree ring dating.

The NPS/USFS Roving Rangers volunteer through a unique agreement between the Flagstaff-area national monuments and the Coconino National Forest to provide interpretive ranger walks and talks in the Flagstaff area each summer.

Submit questions for the Ask a Ranger column to askaranger@gmail.com.
While her yard and was buried in several inches of mud, Kahler said some water also made it into the house and garage.

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Kahler said she believes they would have been fine if the drainage underneath Linda Vista hadnt been overwhelmed.

And she said she was frustrated that more hadnt been done to stop the flooding before it reached town. She was angry that it was seemingly up to just herself and her neighbors to build up all the walls that were needed.

Kahler said when they moved into their home in April, she and her husband knew about the flood risk. Her husband works on the Flagstaff Hotshot crew and actually helped fight the Museum Fire.

But after talking to some of their friends, and seeing all that the city and county was building, Kahler said they figured the flooding would mostly stick to the channel or be blocked by their sandbag wall.

When we bought it, because there hadnt been flooding, we werent too concerned, she said.

Kahler said members of the hotshot crew were on their way to help her and her neighbors reinforce the walls before the flooding hit.

Its a race against time right now, said Scott Richards, another of Kahlers neighbors.
Sunday, July 11

On this date in 1835, Capt. James H. Tevis, early Arizona pioneer and founder of Tevistown, now known as Bowie, was born.

On this date in 1850, Louis J.F. Yeager arrived with 11 other men to establish a ferry at Yuma Crossing. They began by building a stockade on the California side of the river.

On this date in 1854, William Fourr, pioneer Arizona miner and rancher, was born.

On this date in 1923, the Arizona Cattle Growers Association met at Flagstaff and voted to incorporate.

On this date in 1958, the 30,000-acre Monument Valley Tribal Park, the first park established on the Navajo reservation, was established by a resolution of the Navajo Advisory Committee of the Navajo Tribal Council.

Monday, July 12

On this date in 1832, William Kirkland, who is said to have been the man who raised the first American flag in Tucson in 1855, was born.

On this date in 1917, it was reported that a burro slaughter house had been set up at the Arivaca Land and Cattle Co. ranch. Burro meat and hides were reportedly being dried and shipped east.
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The fact that the OMB will not be pursuing the change at this time will ensure that essential community services, funded by various federal agencies which consider population size and MSA status, will continue into the foreseeable future," said Bismarck Mayor Steve Bakken. We are very grateful the current threshold will remain in place at 50,000 people."

Federal statisticians who originally had recommended the change said it was long overdue, given that the U.S. population has more than doubled since the 50,000-person threshold was introduced in 1950. Back then, about half of U.S. residents lived in metros; now, 86% do.

The committee of federal statisticians that made the recommendation said Tuesday that it would now support putting it on hold pending additional research and outreach to municipalities and others.

Updates to these standards are considered every decade. Even though the proposal was made during the Trump administration, and put on hold in the Biden administration, statisticians say any changes to the standards aren't based on politics.

Of the 734 public comments the Office of Budget and Management received about the proposed change, 97% opposed it, the agency said Tuesday in a notice of its decision.
This limited supply compromises national security. In recent years, the Army has only just barely met the Pentagons minimum cognitive-aptitude benchmark for new personnel. Whats more, recruits tend to be drawn from a shrinking segment of the population  from a small number of mostly southern states and families of veterans, a group whose share of the population is lower than at any time since World War II. The armed forces continue to enjoy public support, but this skewing of the recruiting pool risks widening the divide between service members and the citizens theyre sworn to defend.

The U.S. needs to persuade a broader cross section of Americans to consider military service. More generous enlistment bonuses should be offered to candidates who are qualified for critical positions and willing to sign up for six-year contracts. The services should expand outreach beyond recent high-school graduates to community-college and technical-college students, who are more likely to have specialized skills and score higher on aptitude tests. More recruiters should be stationed in communities with low military participation, and those who bring in high-performing recruits should be rewarded. To attract enlistees from non-traditional backgrounds, a greater share of the Pentagons $500 million advertising budget should be spent on social-media campaigns emphasizing the career benefits of joining the military, as a new YouTube series for the Army aims to do.
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(CGTN) China urges the U.S. not to play with fire and immediately stop its risky and provocative actions, not to send wrong signals to the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces and avoid exacerbating tensions in the Taiwan Straits, Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Wu Qian said on Thursday.





Wu made the remarks in response to reports of a U.S. military transport plane landing in China's Taiwan.

Taiwan is an inseparable part of China, and any foreign military aircraft landing on China's territory must obtain the permission of the government of the People's Republic of China, Wu said, adding that any trespass of foreign ships or planes into China's airspace will have serious consequences.

"We warned the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities not to miscalculate the situation, invite the wolf into the house or make desperate moves," he said. "Collusion with external forces to seek 'independence' or provoke (the mainland) will only lead Taiwan into danger."

China must and will be reunified and no one should underestimate the Chinese people's strong resolve, firm determination and great capabilities to defend our national sovereignty and territorial integrity, said Wu.

The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) remains on a high alert, he added, and will take whatever measures are needed to resolutely crush any "Taiwan independence" attempts.

Zhu Fenglian, spokeswoman for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, also said on Thursday that China firmly opposes military collusion of any form between the Taiwan region and the United States, and will resolutely safeguard its sovereignty and security.

"On the question of Taiwan, we urge the U.S. side to abide by the three joint communiques between China and the United States and stop any provocation," she said.

The DPP authorities' collusion with external forces is leading the people in Taiwan to disaster, and the DPP's attempts will surely fail, added Zhu.
Today is Wednesday, July 14, 2021. Let's get caught up.

Here's what you should know today: Senate Democrats reached a deal on a $3.5 trillion budget that largely backs President Biden's top priorities; Pope Francis is back at work after 10-day hospitalization; and it was the Shohei Otahni show at MLB's All-Star game.

Keep scrolling for today's top stories, this date in history and celebrity birthdays.

TOP STORIES

Senate Democrats' $3.5T budget deal backs up Biden's goals

WASHINGTON (AP)  Senate Democrats say they have reached a budget agreement envisioning spending an enormous $3.5 trillion over the coming decade, paving the way for their drive to pour federal resources into climate change, health care and family service programs sought by President Joe Biden.

The accord announced Tuesday night marks a major step in the partys push to meet Bidens goal of bolstering an economy that was ravaged by the coronavirus pandemic and setting it on course for long-term growth  and includes a Medicare expansion of vision, hearing and dental benefits for older Americans, a goal of progressives.
President Biden has set a goal of conserving 30% of the nation's lands and waters by 2030 to restore biodiversity, make natural spaces more accessible for all Americans and combat climate change.

"I'd be happy to talk with the governor if he wants a real understanding of the program," Vilsack said. The secretary was governor of Iowa from 1999 to 2007.

Responding to Vilsack's comments, Ricketts said that "there is no way that existing voluntary programs will reach 30% in nine years (and) either the Biden administration is going to fall far short or they aren't telling the whole story."

The plan "provides no detailed plan about how 30% will be achieved," the governor said in a written statement.

If Vilsack reaches out, Ricketts said, he "would be happy to get on the phone to explain why 30-by-30 is a bad deal for Nebraska."

As Ricketts has criss-crossed the state, 50 Nebraska counties have adopted resolutions to block the Biden administration's plan.

"It's hard for me to understand why the governor would be against parks in cities, support of tribal restoration, expansion of fish and wildlife habitat," Vilsack said.
"This is just the latest one," he said.

Kukulski also said the hillside itself is definitely city parkland. But at the top of the hill is the canal.

"It's not perfectly defined as to whether it was squarely our responsibility or what the BBWA owns," he said.

Davis believes it's pretty clear.

"We fight anytime we're asked to pay our neighbor's share," Davis said.

Regardless of how it shakes out, both the city and the BBWA are invested in the long-term health of the canal, which supplies irrigation to 17,000 acres of agricultural land in eastern Yellowstone County.

The BBWA is currently working through the county to secure American Rescue Plan Act grant funding to line the length of the canal with material that will help prevent seepage.

But ultimately the goal will be to address the problems created by the unstable land over which the canal now passes. As the canal moves east through Billings it eventually reaches the neighborhoods east of downtown below Park Place at about North 14th Street.

From that point, the canal passes under the Rims and moves to the Heights where it eventually reaches the crop fields in eastern Yellowstone County.
Active cases of COVID-19 in North Dakota rose again on Thursday and hit the 200 mark for the first time in about a month.

The state Health Department's coronavirus dashboard shows that active cases have jumped by nearly one-third since the start of the workweek. They're still relatively low -- reported active cases peaked in North Dakota at 11,656 last Nov. 11 -- but health officials around the country are expressing concern about rising case numbers as the new delta variant spreads and vaccination rates lag.

North Dakota's state lab has confirmed 20 cases of the delta variant in the three weeks since it was first detected in the state, along with 1,256 cases of four other variants. Coronavirus vaccinations in the state plateaued weeks ago and remain under 50% of the adult population. Health experts believe a minimum 70% is needed for herd immunity.

Thursday's state dashboard identified 32 new COVID-19 cases from 2,098 tests processed Wednesday. State officials calculated a positivity rate of 1.59%, and a 14-day rolling average test positivity rate of 1.58%, in the target range of less than 5%.
The U.S. Drought Monitor is a partnership of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Struggling producers

This week's crop report from the National Agricultural Statistics Service rates 75% of topsoil and 80% of subsoil in North Dakota as being short or very short of moisture -- about the same as the previous week.

Fifty-four percent of the state's staple spring wheat crop is rated in poor or very poor condition, up 4% over the week. More than one-fourth of the corn crop and one-third of the soybean crop remain in those categories. Nearly one-third of the durum wheat crop also is rated poor or very poor.

The North Dakota Wheat Commission is hosting a virtual preharvest wheat market update on Monday. Industry and grain trade experts will discuss markets through harvest and beyond, targeting factors that specifically impact spring wheat and durum. The free webinar begins at 9 a.m. CST. Registration is required, at www.ndwheat.com.

Pasture and range conditions in North Dakota are 71% poor or very poor. Stock water supplies are 77% in those categories. Both percentages are slight improvements over the week.
Vargas has said that CTU Security used its company credit card to buy 19 plane tickets from Bogota to Santo Domingo for the Colombian suspects allegedly involved in the killing. One of the Colombians who was killed, Duberney Capador, photographed himself wearing a black CTU Security polo shirt.

Nelson Romero Velasquez, an ex-soldier and attorney who is advising 16 families of the Colombians held in Haiti, said Wednesday that the men had all served in the Colombian militarys elite special forces and could operate without being detected, if they had desired. He said their behavior made it clear they did not go to Haiti to assassinate the president.

They have the ability to be like shadows, Romero Velasquez said.

The predawn attack took place at the presidents private home. He was shot to death and his wife wounded. Its not clear who pulled the trigger. The latest suspects identified in the sweeping investigation included a former Haitian senator, a fired government official and an informant for the U.S. government.
China has struck back aggressively, arguing that attempts to link the origins of COVID-19 to a lab were politically motivated and suggesting that the virus might have started abroad. At WHO's annual meeting of health ministers in the spring, China said that the future search for COVID-19's origins should continue  in other countries.

Most scientists suspect that the coronavirus originated in bats, but the exact route by which it first jumped into people - via an intermediary animal or in some other way - has not yet been determined. It typically takes decades to narrow down the natural source of an animal virus like Ebola or SARS.

Tedros said that "checking what happened, especially in our labs, is important" to nailing down if the pandemic had any laboratory links.

"We need information, direct information on what the situation of this lab was before and at the start of the pandemic," the WHO chief said, adding that China's cooperation was critical. "If we get full information, we can exclude (the lab connection)."

Throughout the pandemic, Tedros has repeatedly praised China for its speed and transparency despite senior WHO officials internally griping about obfuscation from their Chinese counterparts.
Gov. Doug Burgum on Wednesday presented the state's highest honor to U.S. Olympic gold medalists Monique Lamoureux-Morando and Jocelyne Lamoureux-Davidson.

The Grand Forks twin sisters are the 45th and 46th recipients of the Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award, members of a hall of fame begun in 1961 with bandleader Lawrence Welk.

The governor announced the honor for the Lamoureux sisters in June 2020, but an award ceremony was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"When they took that hard-earned and well-deserved place at the top of the podium in the (2018) Winter Olympics, the eyes of the world were fixed upon them, and I know that all of North Dakota stood in awe of their accomplishments: two athletes from North Dakota, from Grand Forks, from right here, realizing the dream that theyd been working so hard to achieve since childhood," Burgum said at Wednesday's event in Grand Forks.

The sisters, who also advocate gender equity and opportunities for disadvantaged youth, were honored with a dual portrait to be hung Thursday in the hall of fame on the ground floor of the North Dakota Capitol.
Testimony in the livestreamed trial in Grand Forks began on July 2. Jurors started deliberating Tuesday afternoon.

Defense attorney Steven Mottinger told the jury during closing arguments Tuesday that Pendleton had been experiencing extreme emotional disturbance on the day of the killings because the officers came to evict him and his mother despite the stress of COVID-19 which Pendleton said had them in self-quarantine early in the pandemic.

Pendleton also thought the officers had killed his mother, but ballistics tests showed the bullet was from Pendleton's semiautomatic rifle.

Grand Forks County prosecutor Carmell Mattison said Pendleton prepared for the confrontation by stocking up on ammunition and that he fired a minimum of 48 rounds using a high velocity weapon with full metal jacket bullets.

During the first exchange, Pendleton shot 20 rounds blindly through the bedroom wall, not knowing who was on the other side, Mattison said.

The only person who was prepared on May 27, 2020, was the defendant, Mattison said. Pendleton was waiting for law enforcement to open that door so he could pull the trigger, she said.
BILLINGS, Mont.  Federal officials will give the public more time to comment on a contentious proposal to expand bison grazing on public lands in north-central Montana, officials said.

The move comes after Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte criticized the Bureau of Land Management for holding just one virtual meeting on the proposal, which covers about 108 square miles south of Malta.

Ranchers in the area have been resistant to plans by Bozeman-based conservation group, American Prairie Reserve, to assemble a 5,000-square-mile expanse of public and private lands that would hold at least 10,000 bison.

John Mehlhoff, area director for the Bureau of Land Management, said the open comment period would be extended through Sept. 28 because of heightened interest in the proposal.

The agency did not agree to Gianfortes request for at least five in-person meetings in surrounding counties. It gave its preliminary approval of the proposal earlier this month and found the plan would not have a significant economic or environmental impact.

Massive herds of bison once migrated through the area but were hunted to near extinction in the 19th century.
I'm David Rosenthal, and this is a place to discuss the work I'm doing in Digital Preservation.
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How India Walton would revamp policing in Buffalo On her campaign website, Walton lists 14 short-, medium- and long-term goals under the heading "public safety."

Our complaints on the officers mostly are about their conduct. Now that we have the body cameras, we go back and look at the body cameras and see, what was their conduct? Was it outside of the policies or rules or what have you? Lockwood said.

During the meeting, Lockwood explained the departments hiring process, which includes extensive background checks such as interviews with people who know them, a psychological examination, a check of the persons social media accounts and drug testing.

Four lawsuits tied to Buffalo police to cost city $215,000 The payouts are part of 13 personal injury and general litigation settlements totaling $300,000 that the citys Law Department presented Tuesday to the Common Councils Claims Committee.

A new candidate also undergoes a roundtable process, which consists of representatives from the police department and the citys human resources and law departments. If a racially controversial social media post has surfaced during the background check, it is brought up at the roundtable and the candidate has to explain. A decision is made right then and there whether to hire the person, Lockwood said.

A new hire is on probation for the first 18 months and can be fired if association and membership with white supremacy groups is discovered and proven. After the 18-month time frame, such accusations must go through arbitration to fire the officer. The FBI, the Erie County District Attorney and the state Attorney General may be involved in the investigation.

The Buffalo News: Good Morning, Buffalo The smart way to start your day. We sift through all the news to give you a concise, informative look at the top headlines and must-read stories every weekday. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.
Two weeks after the body of a 45-year-old Angola grandmother who had been reported missing was found in a pond off State Route 438, a Brant man has been charged in her death.

Keith Renaldo Jr., 38, was arraigned Wednesday before Brant Town Justice Jeffrey W. Gier on one count of second-degree murder.

"She was shot twice," Erie County District Attorney John Flynn said Thursday.

Gina Baca, a mother of four and grandmother of four who is a member of the Seneca Nation of Indians, was reported missing by her mother June 27. The last time her mother had heard from her was a text Baca sent the day before.

State police and the Seneca Nation of Indians marshals began a search using drones and K-9 units and issued a plea to the public for help in locating her.

On July 1, authorities located the white BMW that Baca had been driving in a clearing off of Route 438, which runs between Gowanda and Irving through the Cattaraugus Indian Reservation. The area is known as a "party spot" that's near a popular swimming hole, Flynn said. Later the same day, searchers located Baca's body in a pond about 2 miles from where her car was found.

Baca had shotgun wounds to her head and the left side of her body, Flynn said.
DiNoto says that if state leaders are serious about reducing gun violence, they will make the illegal possession of a handgun a Class B felony. DiNoto says the illegal possession of assault rifles should be a Class B felony as well.

He also says the Legislature should take the unusual step of mandating those defendants be jailed without bail, until a judge decides a bail amount at a later court appearance. Further, DiNoto urges an end to the practice of releasing the names and addresses of witnesses and victims in the case to defense lawyers.

Cuomos team had no immediate comment about the letter from DiNoto, who is one of four candidates for sheriff and the only one without an established-party line. Also running for sheriff are John C. Garcia, who won the Republican primary; Kimberly Beaty, who won the Democratic primary; and Karen Healy-Case, who has the Conservative Party line.

The race so far has featured few detailed policy ideas from the candidates. DiNoto intends to speak about his at a news conference Thursday morning.

We owe it to the people of Erie County to do whatever is necessary and take the proper measures to keep our neighborhoods safe from gun violence, while also being careful not infringe on the constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens to legally bear arms, he says in the letter.
"The library, she has said, is her second home, so it all makes sense that we're doing it there," said Joy Testa Cinquino, assistant deputy director of development and communications for the library.

Doyle "is a regular speaker that we annually have speak at a couple of our libraries about her 'Eye on History,' which involves decades of research about the local African American community. She has done a lot of programming in the libraries," Testa Cinquino said.

"Annually, she does a program where she acknowledges local women, and that program, 'Roses for Outstanding Women,' usually takes place in one of the libraries. It has taken place at our downtown branch before, and it has also taken place at the Merriweather Library, where every year she chooses at least 30 women and recognizes them for the terrific legacy that they are bringing to our community," Testa Cinquino added.

Doyle is a columnist for the Buffalo Criterion, the oldest continuously-published African American newspaper in Western New York.

The weekly paper, for which she has been a columnist for more than 40 years, was founded in 1925 by Frank E. Merriweather Sr. and his wife, Camilla. It is still published by the Merriweather family, for whom the Frank E. Merriweather, Jr. Library is named.
The Ohio Street site, officially called the Guterl Specialty Steel site after a later owner, has stood vacant since 1982.

The portion of the plant that is not contaminated is operated now by Allegheny Technologies Inc.

The radioactivity is not airborne, so ATI workers have nothing to fear, project manager Natalie Watson said.

"It's very low-level material. It doesn't pose any imminent threat to health or the environment unless people were to live on the site, exposed to the material day after day for hours, basically all day, in order to obtain a dose that would pose an actual risk," Watson said.

The demolition of the so-called "excised property," to the north of the ATI plant, is currently projected for 2032, but the exact timetable depends on the availability of federal funding, Watson said.

The demolition and soil removal would take about two years. After another two years of groundwater monitoring, the trench project would take about a year to dig.

The Energy Department would be responsible for monitoring the water during the treatment phase, Watson said.
Abode's latest Emoji Trend report also examined the three most misunderstood emojis in the world. The "eggplant"  symbol edged out the "peach"  and the "clown"  emoji respectively as the most confusing for users.

The vast majority of emoji users (90%) believe the modern-day hieroglyphs make it easier for them to express themselves. Eighty-nine percent of respondents said emoji simplify communicating across language barriers. And 67% said they think people who use emoji are friendlier, funnier and cooler than those who don't.

A slight majority of respondents said they are more comfortable expressing emotions through emoji than talking on the phone or in-person. More than half of global emoji users (55%) said using emoji in communications has positively impacted their mental health.

Seventy-six percent of those surveyed said emoji are an important communication tool for creating unity, respect and understanding. And 88% said they feel more empathetic toward people who use emoji.
Marc Thiessens recent column tries dishonestly to give credit to Donald Trump for development of Covid-19 vaccines. The two main vaccines were developed by Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech, both developed using the mRNA mode. This approach has been worked on for years. Pfizer collaborated with BioNTech (a German company) in 2018 for development of RNA vaccines; they received financial assistance from the German government. Moderna was founded for RNA vaccine development also; its name comes from mode plus RNA. These vaccines were developed early in 2020 and human testing was being done in March. Operation Warp Speed (OWS) was not signed until May 15, 2020, so credit for the development of these vaccines cannot be given to OWS.

OWS was good legislation, helping with mass production and distribution of the developed vaccines. Can Trump be even given credit for OWS? Trump was consistently downplaying the virus, saying: It is a hoax. No Americans are infected. One American is infected, 15 are infected, but it will disappear  in about a week. It will be gone by Easter. The summer weather will kill it, etc.
DUBLIN, July 15, 2021--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The "Human Rights Organizations Global Market Report 2021: COVID-19 Impact and Recovery to 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

This report provides strategists, marketers and senior management with the critical information they need to assess the global human rights organizations market as it emerges from the COVID-19 shut down.

The global human rights organizations market is expected to grow from $15.49 billion in 2020 to $15.56 billion in 2021 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 0.5%. The growth is mainly due to the companies rearranging their operations and recovering from the COVID-19 impact, which had earlier led to restrictive containment measures involving social distancing, remote working, and the closure of commercial activities that resulted in operational challenges. The market is expected to reach $18.91 billion in 2025 at a CAGR of 5%.

Companies Mentioned

Amnesty International

Human Rights Watch

Civil Rights Defenders

Human Rights Without Frontiers International

Physicians for Human Rights

Anti-Slavery International

Global Rights

UN Watch

European Centre for Minority Issues

International Federation for Human Rights

Reasons to Purchase

Gain a truly global perspective with the most comprehensive report available on this market covering 12+ geographies.

Understand how the market is being affected by the coronavirus and how it is likely to emerge and grow as the impact of the virus abates.

Create regional and country strategies on the basis of local data and analysis.

Identify growth segments for investment.

Outperform competitors using forecast data and the drivers and trends shaping the market.

Understand customers based on the latest market research findings.

Benchmark performance against key competitors.

Utilize the relationships between key data sets for superior strategizing.

Suitable for supporting your internal and external presentations with reliable high quality data and analysis

The human rights organizations market consists of revenue generated through human rights services by entities that are engaged in promoting causes associated with human rights either for a broad or a specific constituency. Establishments in this industry address issues such as protecting and promoting broad constitutional rights and civil liberties of individuals and those suffering from neglect, abuse, or exploitation, promoting the interests of specific groups such as children, women, senior citizens, or persons with disabilities, improving relations between racial, ethnic, and cultural groups, and promoting voter education and registration.

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Organizations and human rights defenders are working towards protecting the digital human rights of individuals. According to the Pew Research poll of US adults in November 2019, the majority of Americans consider their online and offline activities are being tracked and monitored by companies and the government. Data collection has become mainstream that it breaches the privacy of individuals as everything is being tracked over the internet. To safeguard the interests of individuals using digital technology, human rights organizations are spreading awareness and are fighting to bring laws into place.

The human rights organizations market covered in this report is segmented by type of organizations into nongovernmental organizations; intergovernmental organizations; governmental organizations; international organizations and by application into all humans; children; women; disabled; LGBTQ; others.

In September 2020, Alwaleed Philanthropy, a charitable and philanthropic organization founded with a mission to help mitigate poverty and transcend international boundaries, has joined the Saudi Human Rights Commission to sign a memorandum of cooperation aimed at improving the protection of human rights of women and young people in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Human Rights Commission is a Saudi government organization working for the protection and promotion of human rights in line with international standards.

The rise in hate crimes is expected to drive the human rights organizations market. Hate crime is a form of criminal violence upon a person or property, caused in whole or in part by an offender's bias against a race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender, or gender identity. As per the annual report of FBI published in 2019, physical attacks against individuals have risen, accounting for 61% of the 7,120 cases reported by law enforcement authorities nationally as hate crimes in the USA. Government and non-governmental organizations aim to curb the abuses that challenge people's human rights, which further aids in the growth of the human rights organizations market.

Increasing attacks against human rights defenders are anticipated to hinder the human rights organization market. Attacks against human rights organizations that strive to safeguard human rights are rising at an alarming rate. For instance, in 2019, the Business and Human Rights Resource Center has tracked around 572 attack cases that were related to business-related activities, which is up from 492 cases in 2018. These attacks cause a sense of fear and timidness among individuals who work for human rights protection and challenges human rights protection activities, which thereby impedes the growth of the market.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/4ja1ws

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005582/en/

Contacts

ResearchAndMarkets.com

Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager

press@researchandmarkets.com

For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470

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Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - ION Energy Limited (TSXV: ION) (OTCQB: IONGF) (FSE: 5YB) ("ION" or the "Company") is very pleased to announce that the maiden exploration drilling program announced in June has been successfully completed at the company's 100% owned Baavhai Uul Lithium Salar Project in south eastern Mongolia.

Highlights

First ever drilling program successfully completed on a Lithium Salar project in Mongolia





21 core drill holes completed for 823.2 metres





Brine samples collected and initial samples submitted for analysis





Basin targets remain open and brines intersected are shallow





Additional drilling and sampling is currently being planned

"The company is highly encouraged by the stratigraphic lithologies and brines intersected in the maiden drilling program at Baavhai Uul and both basin targets remain open in area. These are the first of many exciting Lithium Salar targets that ION Energy is generating in Mongolia for drilling in 2021," said Ali Haji, CEO of ION Energy Ltd.

Baavhai Uul

The Company has completed the drilling of 21 drill holes through the highlighted prospective basins. Collection of core samples, sediments and shallow brine from aquifers has been completed and submitted to SGS Laboratories (ISO 17025 Certified) in Ulaanbataar, Mongolia for assaying results of which will be analysed in the coming months.





Figure 1: Diamond RC Rig in L1 at Baavhai Uul

To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/6906/90361_badbe9afa4a77910_002full.jpg





Figure 2: Salar at Baavhai Uul

To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/6906/90361_badbe9afa4a77910_003full.jpg





Figure 3: Brine being pumped to surface at Baavhai Uul

To view an enhanced version of Figure 3, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/6906/90361_badbe9afa4a77910_004full.jpg





Figure 4: RC Drilling at Baavhai Uul

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To view an enhanced version of Figure 4, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/6906/90361_badbe9afa4a77910_005full.jpg





Figure 5: Core samples being collected at Baavhai Uul

To view an enhanced version of Figure 5, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/6906/90361_badbe9afa4a77910_006full.jpg

The technical information disclosed in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Don Hains, P. Geo., a Qualified Person (QP) as defined in NI 43-101.

About ION Energy Ltd.

ION Energy Ltd. (TSXV: ION) (OTCQB: IONGF) (FSE: 5YB) is committed to exploring and developing Mongolia's lithium salars. ION's flagship, 81,000+ hectare Baavhai Uul lithium brine project, represents the largest and first lithium brine exploration licence award in Mongolia. ION also holds the 29,000+ hectare Urgakh Naran highly prospective Lithium Brine licence in Dorngovi Province in Mongolia. ION is well-poised to be a key player in the clean energy revolution, positioned well to service the world's increased demand for lithium. Information about the Company is available on its website, www.ionenergy.ca, or under its profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

For further information:

COMPANY CONTACT: Ali Haji, ali@ionenergy.ca, 647-871-4571

MEDIA CONTACT: Siloni Waraich, siloni@ionenergy.ca, 416-432-4920

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe the Company's future plans, objectives or goals, including words to the effect that the Company or management expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as "believes", "anticipates", "expects", "estimates", "may", "could", "would", "will", or "plan". Since forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Although these statements are based on information currently available to the Company, the Company provides no assurance that actual results will meet management's expectations. Risks, uncertainties and other factors involved with forward-looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the Company's objectives, goals or future plans, statements, potential mineralization, exploration and development results, the estimation of mineral resources, exploration and mine development plans, timing of the commencement of operations and estimates of market conditions. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Ion Energy's expectations include, among others, uncertainties relating to availability and costs of financing needed in the future, changes in equity markets, risks related to international operations, the actual results of current exploration activities, delays in the development of projects, conclusions of economic evaluations and changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined as well as future prices of lithium, and ability to predict or counteract potential impact of COVID-19 coronavirus on factors relevant to the Company's business. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate and 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/90361
LONDON, July 15, 2021--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MMS Holdings Inc. (MMS)  an award-winning, data-focused CRO  announced today that it has been selected by Health Data Research UK (HDR UK)  the national institute for health data science  as a partner to support the International COVID-19 Data Alliance (ICODA) initiative. MMS was selected from a pool of some of the worlds top clinical research organizations to provide data engineering services to support a globally coordinated, health data-led research response to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.

ICODA is an open and inclusive global collaboration of leading life science, philanthropic and research organizations that have come together to harness the power of health data to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Uniting data from a broad set of contributors will enable discoveries that will help treat and prevent COVID-19 and coordinate effective data responses to health challenges of the future.

"The International COVID-19 Data Alliance (ICODA), convened by Health Data Research UK is delighted to partner with MMS for data engineering services in support of our existing driver projects and upcoming Grand Challenges pilots," said Neil Postlethwaite, Technical Director, ICODA. "We look forward to the MMS team supporting our data contributors with their expertise to accelerate contribution of data to the ICODA initiative. Their domain specific knowledge and experience will ensure our researchers have access to higher quality data sets and are able to focus on answering key research questions in the COVID-19 pandemic."

"The values that MMS were built on closely match those of HDR UK and ICODA, and we are proud to help them in making data accessible to health researchers and scientists around the world," said Alan Nicolle, Senior Director, EU & SA Operations, MMS. "At MMS, we take a people-first approach to every project, program, and pipeline. Its this focus that allows us to consistently reach or surpass these critical research goals."

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During the pilot phase of the project, MMS will provide flexible service levels based on the capability of each contributor to transform their data to ICODA standards. The MMS biometrics and data science team will provide simple guidance to the full range of data services and data mapping as needed.

After the pilot completes, MMS data scientists will use learnings to develop tools to further enable contributors such as open-source code and training that academic researchers can use to transform their own data. Additionally, later phases of the engagement may include data mapping and incorporation of real-world health data.

Learn more about ICODA here: https://www.hdruk.ac.uk/covid-19/international-covid-19-data-alliance/

ABOUT MMS

MMS Holdings (MMS) is an innovative, data-focused CRO that supports the pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device industries with a proven, scientific approach to complex trial data and regulatory submission challenges. Strong industry experience, technology-enabled services, and a data-driven approach to drug development make MMS a valuable CRO partner, creating compelling submissions that meet rigorous regulatory standards. With a global footprint across four continents, MMS maintains a 97 percent customer satisfaction rating, and the company has been recognized as a leading CRO in Global Health & Pharmas international awards programs for the last three consecutive years.

For more information, visit www.mmsholdings.com or follow MMS on LinkedIn.

ABOUT HDR UK

Health Data Research UK (HDR UK) is the national institute for health data science. Our mission is to unite the UKs health data to enable discoveries that improve peoples lives.

Health Data Research UK is a registered charity (no. 1194431) funded by UK Research and Innovation, the Department of Health and Social Care in England and equivalents in Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland, and leading medical research charities. HDR UK was set up in 2018 to support research on health data at scale to advance our understanding of disease and enable new discoveries that will ultimately improve health and care. We have established national research programmes that use data at scale, and we are building an infrastructure to enable the responsible access and analysis of this data. Our work is structured around three themes:

Uniting health data  which includes the UK Health Data Research Alliance and the Health Data Research Innovation Gateway.

Improving health data  which includes tools, methods, Health Data Research Hubs and the BHF Data Science Centre.

Using health data  which includes research discoveries and skills development across four national priority areas: Understanding the Causes of Disease, Clinical Trials, Public Health and Better Care.

We are delivering this strategy through our inclusive, team-oriented One Institute ethos - bringing together NHS, universities, research institutes and charities - built on our values.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005058/en/

Contacts

Don F. McLean

media@mmsholdings.com

+1 734-245-0165
Nutrien (TSX:NTR)(NYSE:NTR) is a global specialty chemicals company focused on the agricultural sector. Within the companys potash operations, Nutrien increased sales volumes by over one million tonnes in 2020 and took actions to further reduce the companys cash cost of production per tonne, which resulted in record-low costs for Nutrien.

Future potash outlook

The outlook for potash appears to have improved for 2021, starting the year at much higher prices than the average in 2020, while remaining very affordable for growers. For the companys nitrogen business, Nutrien achieved record-high sales volumes through higher combined ammonia operating rates at the companys North American facilities and the benefit from recent brownfield debottleneck expansions, which were brought on budget.

Opportunistic capital deployment

Recently, Nutrien sold its 26% equity position in the Misr Fertilizers Production Company nitrogen facility in Egypt for $540 million. This was a very opportunistic sell by the company to take advantage of an overvalued asset. The company expects to redeploy the proceeds to generate higher returns for shareholders. This is another example of Nutriens commitment to a continual and rigorous portfolio review to optimize the companys business.

During 2020, Nutrien made significant strides towards its goal to be the leader in sustainability in the global agriculture sector. Nutrien is working on a broader climate-smart strategy, with numerous investments made over the years to develop climate-friendly products and services. For example, Nutrien is one of the leading producers of blue- and low-carbon ammonia, with approximately one million tonnes of production capability.

Comprehensive long-term climate strategy

Over the past year, the company has achieved an approximate 20% improvement in its overall environmental, social, and governance (ESG) ratings and made substantial progress compared to the companys peer groups. Nutrien also expects to unveil a comprehensive long-term strategy in the third quarter of 2021 to continue to demonstrate the companys leadership in this area.

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In the area of safety, health, and environment, 2020 was Nutriens most successful year to date. The company sent more workers home safe each day and maintained a low level of environmental incidents. It appears that the companys safety culture and leadership are the primary drivers of these superb results. By focusing on prevention of incidents, increasing awareness through leadership presence, and creating an open dialogue environment, the company improved performance.

End-to-end carbon program

Overall, Nutrien expects to build on last years excellent results and has indicated to the investment community that the well-being of employees and the communities in which it operates will always be the biggest priority. The company recently announced what it expects to adopt the worlds leading carbon management and sustainable agriculture program. Based on the progress made, Nutrien appears uniquely positioned to offer the industrys most comprehensive end-to-end carbon program.

The program should make it easy for growers to adopt more sustainable agronomic practices that generate significant financial benefits for the grower, while also delivering positive carbon outcomes that can be seamlessly verified, thereby creating carbon credits that can be traded. This represents a huge opportunity for Nutrien and could result in a sharply higher share price.

The post A Top Canadian Stock Id Buy With $500 Right Now appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada.

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The Motley Fool recommends Nutrien Ltd. Fool contributor Nikhil Kumar has no position in any of the stocks mentioned.

2021
The third developer betas for iOS 15, iPadOS 15 and macOS Monterey started rolling out today, and key among the changes they bring is a set of updates to Apple's browser. Safari is getting some design updates, including easier access to reloading, sharing and Tab Groups in macOS Monterey, as well as improved navigation features in iOS 15.

One of the changes in the macOS Monterey beta that we didn't like was the removal of the tabs bar. Senior editor Devindra Hardawar pointed out that while the new menu in its place allowed Apple to devote more screen space to website content, it made sorting through your tabs messy and tedious. With today's beta release, though, Apple's brought back the standalone Tab bar, which will be enabled by default, like it was on Big Sur.

In addition, you'll also get one-click access to controls including Reload and Sharing, as well as access to new features like Tab Groups from the toolbar. If you liked the thin menu that gave you more space for browsing, you can still adopt it, and Apple's refined this to make it easier to see page titles while you rack up more tabs.

These changes will also come to iPadOS in a future beta update, which is nice since deputy editor Nathan Ingraham also criticized the removal of the tab bar in our preview.

On iOS 15, Apple's tweaked Safari to make it easier to use with one hand. When you're entering a search, the field will now appear on top of the keyboard so it's nearer the bottom of the screen, making it easier to edit your query. When you're done typing, you can dismiss the keyboard by swiping down on it. Apple also added a Reload option to the long-press menu on the left side of the tab bar.

If you haven't already, you can enroll in Apple's beta program to check these previews out for yourself. But be warned, you'll need to be sure you want to risk running potentially unstable software. If you can't wait a bit longer for the stable release, make sure you back up your data before installing the updates. You can find out how to do so here.
Former Namibian football star Marley Ngarizemo has lost 15 relatives including his father, brother, sister-in-law and an aunt since the third wave of Covid hit the southern African nation last month.

Another six currently are in hospital.

"You do not know whether the world is ending," says the 42-year-old, who played for Namibia at the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations.

"You can compare it to a tsunami, you can compare this to a volcano, you can compare it to genocide. I don't know. It's like there is poison in the water, and every drop you take might have it, or might not have it."

Namibia, which has a population of 2.5 million, currently has the world's highest daily death rate, at 22 per million people, according to Our World in Data. Tunisia has the second worst rate at 13 and Suriname the third at 10.

To help cope with the continuing rise in cases, the government has built makeshift hospitals to accommodate patients. But even with those, health facilities and healthcare workers cannot keep up.

Not only are the number of sick Namibians rising, but so are the number who need to be treated in hospital.

The new isolation centre at the main hospital in the capital, Windhoek, is an unassuming building.

It looks like it was dropped into the middle of the car park.

Oxygen shortage

Before they enter the ward, the nurses have to put on full protective equipment, with multiple layers of masks and gloves, and special boots. It takes 15 minutes.

The nurses are constantly going through this procedure so that they are able to monitor the the oxygen levels of patients, most of whom are sleeping or are in a semi-conscious state.

Donnovan Soresbeb says it is emotionally exhausting to see so many patients die

Donnovan Soresbeb says this wave has been physically and emotionally exhausting for him and his fellow nurses, adding that it was scary how quickly the condition of a patient could deteriorate.

"You lose patients that were okay a few minutes ago. You turn your back, and then they're gone," the nurse tells the BBC.

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"Some are [staying] so long in hospital, that you kind of give up on them, and it is hard, but you keep hoping for the best."

Hospitals across Namibia are at capacity and there is not enough oxygen for patients.

"Mr Ngarizemo's father passed away less than 24 hours after the oxygen was removed"", Source: Samantha Granville, Source description: Journalist, Image: Marley's father

Doctors have described having to make decisions "for the greater good", in which they take sick patients off oxygen to save the supply for a patient who is more likely to survive.

Mr Marley's father was a victim of the lack of oxygen.

When he took a turn for the worse, doctors immediately put him on oxygen. But once his numbers improved, the oxygen was removed.

Less than 24 hours later, Mr Marley's father had passed away.

Namibia was unprepared for the third wave, due to a perfect storm of government complacency, misinformation regarding vaccines and a deep case of fatigue with measures to control the spread of the virus.

Social media has been flooded with fake posts criticising the safety and efficacy of the vaccines.

Those who do want to get a vaccine, do not know if and when it will be available to them because of shortages, and the government has been changing its stance on how it should be distributed.

Graph showing daily deaths from coronavirus

During a sombre address to the nation at the end of June, President Hage Geingob told Namibians that the worst was yet to come.

"Expert projections and simulation tools indicate that the rising incidence curve, during this third wave, is expected to peak around mid-August and may continue well until mid-September 2021," he grimly stated while announcing a raft of lockdown measures.

"Only you and I can stop the further spread of this virus from ravaging our homes and communities," he concluded.

Despite this appeal, many Namibians continue to disregard the rules.

Masks hang off one ear and rarely cover peoples' mouths and noses.

Food markets, clothing stores, and restaurants will chase you down with hand sanitiser when you walk in, but they are not limiting the number of people who can enter.

Large gatherings of young people are still taking place in public spaces, in breach of regulations that supposedly restrict gatherings to 10.

One group of teenagers who regularly meet up in a Windhoek shopping mall said they were worried about passing on the disease to their elders, but they also want to socialise.

There are signs though that some are beginning to take things more seriously.

The death of influential traditional ruler Vekuii Rukoro (C) prompted some to take the disease more seriously

For example, initially people in the country's Herero community, which makes up about 7% of the population, appeared to ignore warnings and continued with big traditional gatherings.

Then as some died, the funerals themselves became super-spreader events. But the recent passing of a paramount chief, Vekuii Rukoro, changed attitudes.

There is fear everywhere, says Herero elder Josua Musuuo.

"The whole nation is dying, this corona is finishing us. All the elderly are dying.

"So, everyone at the village homesteads and all these people sitting here are all in fear, fear of death, they are all waiting to die."

As for Mr Ngarizemo, he believes that a lot of the deaths in his family could have been avoided had the government introduced tighter restrictions earlier, and communities had taken more personal responsibility.

"Imagine people have survived HIV and now people are just dying by this disease - left, right and centre - and no-one can manage it. It's really tough, it is frightening."
Plainclothes police detain an anti-government protester during a protest in Havana, Cuba, Sunday, July 11, 2021. Hundreds of demonstrators went out to the streets in several cities in Cuba to protest against ongoing food shortages and high prices of foodstuffs, amid the new coronavirus crisis. (Ramon Espinosa/Associated Press - image credit)

The gap between the Biden administration and the Trudeau government this week on Cuba was wider than the straits that separate Havana from Key West.

U.S. President Joe Biden said the United States "stands firmly with the people of Cuba as they assert their universal rights. And we call on the government of Cuba to refrain from violence in their attempt to silence the voices of the people of Cuba."

The protests  which saw thousands of Cubans march through cities across the island  are a "clarion call for freedom," said Biden.

When CBC News asked for one, Global Affairs Canada issued a statement through spokesperson Ciara Trudeau on the protests in Cuba. The department has not posted it with other statements on its website.

The statement declares support for "the right to freedom of expression and assembly" but doesn't point fingers at the regime in Havana. Instead, it calls on "all parties to uphold this fundamental right."

"Global Affairs Canada urges all sides to exercise restraint and encourages all parties involved in the crisis to engage in peaceful and inclusive dialogue," says the statement.

Ramon Espinosa/Associated Press

The "all sides" language was jarring to Cuban exile Michael Lima Cuadra, who came to Canada as a political refugee in the 1990s and is a member of the newly-formed Council for a Democratic Transition in Cuba.

"The language is very neutral," he said. "And there is a saying by Desmond Tutu that if, in times of oppression, you choose to be neutral, you are taking the side of the oppressor."

Government statement echoes regime's spin, says critic

Global Affairs' statement went on to discuss shortages of food and medicine in Cuba  strongly implying that hungry bellies and a lack of vaccines drove the protests, rather than any desire for political change.

In that sense, it aligns closely with the spin the Cuban Communist Party has put on events, said Cuban-Canadian Fannia Brito of Gatineau, Quebec.

Story continues

"The Cuban people are not asking for medicine, or for COVID treatments," she said. "The Cuban people have taken to the streets, with tremendous valour, to demand the end of the dictatorship, the end of the oppression. That is what the Cuban people are demanding."

Eliana Aponte/Associated Press

Video of the protests clearly shows the crowds shouting slogans such as "Freedom!" and "Down with Communism!".

The GAC statement departs from the language Canada typically uses when talking about other authoritarian regimes in the region in that it contains no call for a return to democracy  no suggestion that it's time to end Cuba's 62-year-old one-party state.

When asked about Cuba this week, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that "we have always called for greater freedoms and more defence of human rights in Cuba, and we'll continue to be there to support Cubans in their desire for greater peace, greater stability and greater voice in how things are going."

That's not nearly good enough, said Lima Cuadra.

'They need Canada'

"We urge the government of Canada to listen to the demands of people, to support them in their peaceful struggle for democracy, and to condemn  openly condemn  the repression, the wave of arbitrary arrests, the intimidation, in the same manner they have done with the regimes in Venezuela and Belarus," he said.

"It's very important that when people are struggling for democracy, democratic governments take a public stand. That's what gives those movements support and legitimacy. Without the voices of democratic governments, those movements cannot subsist. They need Canada."

The Trudeau government consistently has treated Cuba in a markedly different fashion than it has other authoritarian regimes, such as those of Venezuela, Nicaragua and Belarus. It was at the forefront of calls for the removal of the Nicolas Maduro government in Venezuela and was the second government in the world to recognize opposition leader Juan Guaido as the country's president.

The Trudeau government has sanctioned Venezuela repeatedly, as it did the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua and the Lukashenko regime in Belarus. It has cited flawed elections, the repression of protests and the suppression of political opposition to justify those sanctions.

Canada's position is that the Maduro regime lost democratic legitimacy on January 10, 2019, after he and his mentor Hugo Chavez had held power consecutively for 20 years. Long before Canada declared Maduro's legal mandate over, it routinely condemned his government's democratic transgressions.

Sean Kilpatrick/Canadian Press

Such language is absent from current Canadian government statements on Cuba, where there are no real elections, no vestiges of independent courts, no opposition legislators, mayors or governors  all of which are still hanging on in Venezuela.

For Cuba, there are no Canadian sanctions, but rather professions of loyalty, friendship  and commercial interest.

"Canada and Cuba have a well-established, significant and growing commercial and investment relationship," says the Global Affairs website. "Cuba is Canada's top market in the Caribbean/Central American sub-region."

The family photo

The public highlight of Justin Trudeau's visit to Cuba in November 2016 was a Q&A session with a group of students at the elite University of Havana.

Trudeau sat flanked by the outgoing leader, Raul Castro, and his protege Miguel Diaz-Canel, the man who leads Cuba today. (Raul Castro, 90, is retired.)

Fred Chartrand/The Canadian Press

Canada would be "a steadfast and unflinching friend to Cuba," Trudeau told the Communist Party leaders. "We disagree with the approach the United States has taken with Cuba. We think that our approach is much better  of partnership, of collaboration, of engagement," he said, describing Cuba at one point as an "ally" of Canada.

Trudeau's hopes of meeting the dying Fidel, stoked to the last minute by the Cuban Embassy in Ottawa, were foiled when he was told the maximum leader was too ill.

In lieu of an audience with Fidel himself, three of his sons delivered Trudeau a photo album showing the Castro and Trudeau families together.

Praise for the regime, no mention of elections

Then-U.S. president Barack Obama, who had visited earlier in the year, had set out conditions for his visit to Cuba.

Two months before he travelled, Obama said that if he were to visit Cuba, "then part of the deal is that I get to talk to everybody"  including dissidents.

Trudeau laid out no public conditions for his visit and the civil society group he met with did not include the kind of dissidents Obama met  some of whom had spent decades in prison or had undergone hunger strikes opposing one-party rule.

Instead, the civil society representatives who met with Trudeau were selected for their opposition to sexism, homophobia and racism  ideologically comfortable terrain for the Cuban Communist Party.

That same day, across town, Trudeau's wife Sophie was praising Cuban leaders' "very open-minded and open-hearted" commitment to gender equality.

Absent from the Trudeaus' comments on Cuban soil were such words as "democracy," "rule of law" and "elections."

'Deep and lasting affection'

When Fidel Castro finally died ten days later, Trudeau paid tribute "on behalf of all Canadians" to the "larger than life leader who served his people for almost half a century."

"A legendary revolutionary and orator, Mr. Castro made significant improvements to the education and health care of his island nation," the prime minister said.

"While a controversial figure, both Mr. Castro's supporters and detractors recognized his tremendous dedication and love for the Cuban people who had a deep and lasting affection for 'el Comandante'".

Those remarks kicked off a short-lived string of parodies.

Trudeau also praised Fidel Castro as "Cuba's longest-serving president"  not a difficult achievement, since Cuba's last free election was in 1948.

The statement was condemned in the Cuban diaspora and raised eyebrows around the world.

'Complicity with dictatorship'

Canadian tourists are critical to Cuba's economy. More than twice as many Canadians enter Cuba every year than the citizens of any other nation  including Cuba itself. Canadian tourist dollars and Canadian investments are important for the survival of Communist Party control.

Some Cuban-Canadians worry that, just as change appears possible, Prime Minister Trudeau's personal and family history will influence the actions of a country that weighs heavily in Cuba's future.

In 1960, during the earliest days of the Castro regime, Pierre Trudeau was rescued in the Straits of Florida while trying to paddle to Cuba. He was later derided by John Diefenbaker in the House of Commons for conducting his "love affair" with the Cuban Revolution "by canoe."

In 1964, the elder Trudeau came back to tour the island. He returned with his family in 1976. That famous visit  which featured Trudeau shouting "Viva el primer ministro Fidel Castro!" on television  was a propaganda coup for the regime. Pierre Trudeau was the first leader of a NATO nation to visit the island since the communist takeover.

Fred Chartrand/Canadian Press

Justin Trudeau, who has spoken of making private visits to the island during his younger years, was visibly moved by Castro's presence at his father's funeral in Montreal. Fidel was given the role of honorary pallbearer.

Fannia Brito said Trudeau's obvious emotional attachment to Castro's legacy makes Cuban-Canadians suspect his motives. She said calls, emails and requests for meetings by her community are being ignored by Liberal Party politicians.

"It's incredible that the government has not pronounced itself either for or against, but has almost complete silence," she said. "It demonstrates the complicity of this government with the dictatorship.

"We want an answer, we want a public response. And we're not going to stop until we get it."
MIAMI (AP)  Some Black Lives Matters activists say a double standard is being used as people blocked busy roadways in Florida this week in support of antigovernment demonstrations in Cuba, with limited action taken by law enforcement despite a new law enhancing penalties against disruptions by protesters.

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into Florida law a measure earlier this year that boosts penalties against demonstrators who turn violent and creates new criminal penalties for those who organize demonstrations that get out of hand. Provisions of the law also make it a felony to block some roadways and give immunity to people who drive through protesters blocking a road.

The bill was introduced after last summer's protests for racial justice during which some Black Lives Matter protesters were met by police with tear gas and arrests when they took to the streets for days at a time.

Demonstrators on Tuesday in Miami, Tampa and Orlando temporarily blocked busy roads, chanting support for the Cubans who had taken to the streets in the communist nation Sunday to air grievances about poor economic conditions and other issues.
Its setting up for a great competitive race, Scholz said.

The other conservative challenger, Fond du Lac County District Attorney Eric Toney, trailed behind with just $41,500 raised, according to a report provided by the campaign ahead of official filing.

In the first half of 2017, then-incumbent Schimel raised $298,000  about $113,000 less than Kaul has raised this year. Schimel also had less cash on hand at that point, with $381,000 in the bank compared to Kauls $537,000.

Owens campaign noted that his funds were raised in just two months. Owens, who also serves as affiliate faculty at the UW-Madison Law School, reported having $250,000 on hand. Toney reported having $27,800 on hand.

Our campaign has worked tirelessly. Our fundraising numbers are a direct reflection of our teams determination to win and Wisconsins craving for new leadership in Madison, Owens said. In just two months, we raised a record sum for a first-time candidate and from all 72 counties. We are the team that will defeat Josh Kaul and his radical policies in November.

Kauls campaign said it has more cash now than Schimel had raised by the end of that year in December 2017.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 15)  Davao-based businessman Dennis Uy is now facing a hurdle in his planned takeover of the Malampaya gas facility as the Department of Energy now "extensively reviews" his company's acquisition deals after the Senate questioned its capability to finance such purchases with only $100 (or about 5,000) capitalization.

In a statement issued Thursday, Energy Chief Alfonso Cusi said he ordered DOE officials to re-evaluate the sales purchase agreement between global giant Chevron and Udenna Corporation's subsidiary UC Malampaya Philippines.

"We will continue to exhaust all measures in thoroughly evaluating the legal, financial, and technical aspects of the transaction, the official said.

In March last year, Uy's Udenna formally secured a 45% controlling interest in the gas field in offshore Palawan.

READ: Dennis Uy officially part of Malampaya consortium

Cusi's statement comes after the Senate earlier this week grilled DOE officials as lawmakers raised eyebrows on the revelation that Udenna's unit Malampaya Energy XP Pte. Ltd.the winning bidder for the purchase of Shell Philippines Exploration's 45% operating stake in Malampaya gas fieldhas a capital of only $100.

This, despite the fact that the sale-purchase agreement costs $460 million.

READ: Davao's Dennis Uy acquires Shell's Malampaya stake

Senate Committee on Energy Chairman Sherwin Gatchalian questioned Cusi on the financial clout of Uy's group to finance the transaction.

"Basically that is the capital, will it qualify? Will this be declared as financially qualified?" he said.

Cusi argued, however, that agreements between the funders, buyer, and seller are already "beyond us".

The energy secretary stressed the agency is more focused on the group's capacity "to continue to work, their ability to fund the development, their ability to continue the exploration work and that they have to satisfy with us."

Lawyer Raymond Zorrilla, Udenna's spokesperson, said in a statement the group "sufficiently addressed" the concern.

"In addition, the seller was satisfied with our financial capabilities, among others, which is why it awarded the contract to us. With all due respect, being a private contract, the seller was in a better position to determine who is best suited to continue the Malampaya operations after conducting its own due diligence," Zorilla said.

In a separate statement, Malampaya Energy defended its financial clout. "Firstly, Malampaya is a producing asset and generates sufficient free cash to fund its planned exploration activities. Secondly, Malampaya Energy and UC Malampaya Philippines (both Udenna-related entities) have over P10 billion in cash on their balance sheets."

Udenna's transaction with Shell is expected to be completed by end-2021. Following the agreement, the business tycoon now owns 90% of the gas field offshore Palawan.

Davao-based Uy, a good friend of President Rodrigo Duterte and a supporter of his 2016 election campaign, has been building his business empire for the past years, expanding to oil, shipping and logistics, real estate, and property development, education, tourism, and infrastructure.

His latest venture is the country's new telco player DITO Telecommunitya joint venture between Udenna and Chinese state-owned China Telecommunications. DITO is now challenging the duopoly of Globe Telecom and PLDT with an investment of over 257 billion for five years. Officials previously said China Telecommunications provides technological expertise to the new telco player.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 15)  Financial technology players' growth momentum in the Philippine market is expected to continue, even surpassing traditional banks in capturing unbanked Filipinos, according to credit rater Moody's Investors Service.

In its report issued Thursday, Moody's said fintech firms in the countryespecially those operating mobile wallet applicationsare "poised to grow rapidly" as 70% of Filipino adults are still unbanked.

Conventional banks, however, "remain slow" in bolstering their digital services and responding to the threat fintech companies pose to their retail business.

"Fintech companies can capture the unbanked population ahead of incumbent banks with more competitive digital products," Moody's said.

Moody's cited key areas of retail business that fintech firms can witness growth, including depository services, credit cards, remittances and unsecured lending.

For instance, Moody's said fintech players can snatch banks' existing and potential depositors as mobile wallets do not demand a minimum deposit balance.

"Although fintech products will expand the pool of customers in the financial system by attracting the unbanked population, it will be challenging for banks to win market share from fintech companies with established franchises because most of them have been slow in digitalization," Moody's said.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Filipinos were forced to embrace digital payments as part of the new normal, subsequently lifting mobile wallets' user base.

PLDT's Voyagerthe operator of PayMaya has said the mobile wallet now has a whopping 38 million users. Globe's GCash, meanwhile, has an even wider reach with about 40 million users.

Earlier last month, Voyager said it was hoping to secure a digital bank license from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

RELATED: PLDT's Voyager gets $167-M funding to boost PayMaya
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 14) The United States top infectious diseases expert is encouraging local support for Filipino scientists and research institutions as he lauded their contributions in the field of science and medicine.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), recently underscored the importance of sustained government support for the local scientists, as doing so will help boost the countrys economy.

I want to emphasize the importance of sustained local support for scientists and scientific institutions in the Philippines and elsewhere, Fauci, also the chief medical adviser for US President Joe Biden, said during his address at the annual scientific meeting of the National Academy of Science and Technology on Tuesday.

This support is the necessary foundation to attract funding from outside the country, he added. It is also an essential element for economic vitality and growth.

Fauci highlighted the important role of Philippine institutions when it comes to infectious diseases research, including on dengue and malaria.

He also expressed hope that the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine  which the NIAID earlier recognized as a center of excellence  will continue to get the assistance it needs.

Hopefully, this institution and others will continue to receive Philippine government support so that they remain competitive for both funding and talent, he said.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 15)  The upcoming PDP-Laban assembly on Saturday will still be considered invalid even with the presence of President Rodrigo Duterte, the party chairman and "the most popular" person in the group, Sen. Aquiliono "Koko" Pimentel III warned onThursday.

"If the most popular person in the party will attend, a meeting which we have not recognized, it does not change the fact that we still do not recognize that meeting," Pimentel told CNN Philippines' The Source.

"The violation and the defects from the start are still there," he added.

Pimentel, the son of the party's co-founder, Sen. Aquilino "Nene" Pimentel Jr., said that national council meeting, which will also be held on Friday, is not authorized either.

Pimentel noted that the PDP-Laban activities which will be held by the faction led by ousted party vice chairman Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi is still "clearly violative" of the party's constitution, especially since party president Sen. Manny Pacquiao was not involved in the agenda.

The upcoming activities will include discussion of committee reports and election of the party's new set of officers.

Pimentel also expressed confidence that Duterte's attendance will not weaken the faction led by him and Pacquiao, as this was already evident in the ongoing "word war" between the two leaders.

The senator added that PDP-Laban is a party of ideology and not based on personalities.

"Hindi po kami (we are not) personality-based," he said. "Our chairman happens to be the President of the Republic of the Philippines, a very charismatic person with very huge following and very popular, so those are facts about him."

"Pero pagdating sa partido (But when it comes to the party), when you call for a meeting, you do not keep the party president blind of the details of the event," Pimentel added.

Malacanang earlier stressed that Duterte continues to recognize the leadership of Cusi despite his expulsion brought by the widening rift within the ruling party.

READ: Pacquiao-led faction expels Cusi, 2 others from PDP-Laban

Pacquiao is among those being floated as a presidential candidate in next year's polls. The boxer-turned-politician was caught in a word war with the President after claiming that corruption in the government is two or three times worse in the present administration.

He also criticized the President over his alleged soft stance on the West Philippine Sea.

In a May 31 assembly boycotted by Pacquiao, the Cusi-led faction adopted a resolution pushing for Duterte to run for vice president next year and allowing him to choose his running mate in the 2022 polls.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 15)  Sen. Koko Pimentel urged the supporters of President Rodrigo Duterte not to force him into the vice presidency, especially if the chief executive conveyed that he wants to retire from politics.

"Una sa lahat kasi, I have heard the President say a lot of times na pagod na siya, ito na ang last office na hahawakan niya. He has reached the highest position under our presidential form of government," Pimentel told CNN Philippines' The Source on Thursday.

[Translation: First of all, I have heard the President say a lot of times that he's tired, this is the last office that he will handle. He has reached the highest position under our presidential form of government.]

"Ang sabi nga niya noong nahalal siya, 'hindi na ako mamumulitika' because siguro father of the nation na siya," Pimentel added. "Ilang beses kong narinig iyon. Naniwala naman ako."

[Translation: He said when he was elected, 'I will not get involved with politicking' because maybe he considers himself as the father of the nation. I heard that a lot of times. I believe him.]

The senator also stressed that if the President already made those claims, no one should force him to run for vice president.

"Sa tingin ko pag ganun na po ang sinabi ng isang tao, in fairness to him and out of respect for him, 'wag na natin siyang pilitin, tapos ino-nominate niyo pa na VP after being president," he said.

[Translation: For me, if a person said something like that, in fairness to him and out of respect for him, let's not force him, yet they would still nominate him for VP after being president.]

Back in May, the PDP-Laban faction led by ousted vice chair Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi adopted a resolution pushing for Duterte to run for vice president next year and to choose his running mate. Since then, Duterte has been saying that he is entertaining the idea, but only if there is "space" for him to run.

READ: Duterte on running for VP: Maybe, if there's space

Meanwhile, party president Sen. Manuel Pacquiao is among those being floated as a presidential candidate amid his ongoing word war with Duterte on various issues.

Pimentel, the former president of PDP-Laban, has backed Paquiao in calling the Cusi-led activities as invalid, hinting a widening rift within the party.

RELATED: Duterte's attendance will not legitimize upcoming PDP-Laban assembly - Pimentel

He clarified, however, that should Duterte push through with his VP bid, they will not be dismissive of his political plan and will be willing to discuss with him as a fellow partymate.

Pimentel noted that running for public office should not be a ground for a possible "expulsion" even if Duterte is floating the idea of once again vying for another national post.

He also clarified that his opinion on a possible Pacquiao-Duterte tandem is only a response to a "hypothetical question coming from objective minds" since the two PDP-Laban factions are pushing for two different positions for their two leaders.

He did not say, however, whether he will personally support the tandem.

READ: Pimentel floats idea of possible Pacquiao-Duterte tandem
(CNN)  Children will likely pay the price for adults in the US not getting vaccinated at high enough rates to slow or stop the spread of COVID-19, which has been surging in most states, a vaccine expert said.

If vaccination rates among adults and kids 12 and older keep lagging amid increased spread of the Delta variant, the youngest members of the population will be most affected, said Dr. Peter Hotez, a vaccinologist and dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine.

"Transmission will continue to accelerate ... and the ones who will also pay the price, in addition to the unvaccinated adolescents, are the little kids who depend on the adults and adolescents to get vaccinated in order to slow or halt transmission," he said.

In 46 states, the rates of new cases this past week are at least 10% higher than the rates of new cases the previous week, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.

In Los Angeles County, the country's most populous, there has been a 500% increase in cases over the past month, according to the county's latest health data.

As cases increase, only 48.2% of the population is fully vaccinated, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And though many may brush off the risk of low vaccination rates to children, citing their low COVID-19 mortality rates, Hotez said they are still at risk for serious complications.

In Mississippi, seven children are in intensive care with COVID-19, and two are on ventilators, State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs tweeted Tuesday evening. Many more adolescents could be hospitalized, Hotez said, adding that up to 30% of children infected will develop long-haul COVID-19.

Nationwide, the overall number of new daily COVID-19 hospitalizations will likely increase over the next four weeks, an ensemble forecast published Wednesday by the CDC projects. There will likely be 2,100 to 11,000 new confirmed COVID-19 hospital admissions on August 9, the forecast says. Hospitalizations had been on a steady decline since late April, US Department of Health and Human Services data shows.

Scientists also are now learning about neurological consequences to long-haul COVID-19, Hotez said. Some studies have shown impacts on the brain of people who have been infected with the virus. One study in April found 34% of Covid-19 survivors received a diagnosis for a neurological or psychological condition within six months of their infection.

"What you're doing is your condemning a whole generation of adolescents to neurologic injury totally unnecessarily," Hotez said. "It's just absolutely heartbreaking and beyond frustrating for vaccine scientists like myself to see this happen."

Debate over vaccine mandates

With experts stressing the importance in vaccinating a majority of Americans against the virus, some officials are debating whether to mandate vaccinations at the local level. Some schools and employers have already implemented measures requiring students and employees to be vaccinated before returning.

Last month, Morgan Stanley announced unvaccinated employees, guests and clients would be banned from its New York headquarters. In April, Houston Methodist, a network of eight hospitals, said it would require all of its employees to get vaccinated. Of the 26,000 employees, 153 resigned or were fired as a result of refusing the vaccine.

That same month, the American College Health Association issued a policy statement recommending COVID-19 vaccination requirements for all on-campus college and university students for the upcoming fall semester, where state law and resources allow.

But many states are moving to block such requirements.

At least seven states -- Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Indiana, Montana, Oklahoma and Utah -- have enacted legislation this year that would restrict public schools from requiring either coronavirus vaccinations or documentation of vaccination status, a CNN analysis found.

Such legislation can hurt the nation's 48 million Americans under the age of 12, former Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius said Tuesday. Currently, COVID-19 vaccines are only available in the US to people 12 and older. Vaccine trials are underway for children 6 months through 11 years old.

"If we start with a lens on the children and wanting children to get back to school, which is what we all say is the priority, then we have to get more serious about employers and schools and universities stepping up and saying, 'It's great if you don't want to be vaccinated. But if you don't, you really can't have access to places that will put you in contact with folks who can't get vaccinated,'" Sebelius said.

The CDC announced last week it prioritizes in-person learning, even if all COVID-19 safety measures aren't in place. As K-12 schools will have a mix of vaccinated and unvaccinated people, it's necessary to layer strategies such as masking, physical distancing and, most importantly, vaccinations for everyone eligible -- people age 12 and older, the agency said.

The federal government can support vaccine use by expediting the full approval of available vaccines, Sebelius said. Vaccines are now available in the US under emergency use authorization.

"Getting full approval -- getting out of the emergency use authorization and into full approval -- is something that will clear up any legal questions that private employers may have," she said.

What surges could mean for the school year

Most officials and health experts have stressed the importance of students being able to safely return to school in the new academic year, but vaccine hesitancy could impact how districts move forward.

Only a quarter of Americans age 12 to 15 are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, according to data published Tuesday by the CDC, making them the age group with the lowest rate of vaccination.

California's K-12 schools were directed Monday to turn away students from campuses for refusing to wear face coverings in class, but the rules were revised just hours later to give schools more leeway in implementing protocol.

Despite the initial guidance stating, "Schools must exclude students from campus if they are not exempt from wearing a face covering under (California Department of Public Health) guidelines and refuse to wear one provided by the school," Alex Stack, spokesperson for Gov. Gavin Newsom's office, insisted the intent was not to turn away students.

"The way (the guidance) was written didn't accurately reflect the intent, so it was rewritten," Stack told CNN, acknowledging the statement came across as "banning kids." "It's important to get this right so parents and students know what to expect going in to school year."

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said the city's guidance could change as the school year gets closer, but for now, families should assume masks will still be worn in schools come September.

"We've been constantly working with the CDC, but we also in this case have been very careful given everything the city has been through ... for now, we're sticking with the idea that, you know, wearing the masks is the smart thing to do in schools," de Blasio said.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Young children will pay the price if enough US adults don't get vaccinated against Covid-19, expert says."
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 16)  The International Labor Organization (ILO) and the Government of Japan launched an initiative that will provide assistance to small companies in the Philippines that were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a statement, the ILO said the new project called Bringing back jobs safely under the COVID-19 crisis in the Philippines: Rebooting small and informal businesses safely and digitally aims to make workplace of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) safer and more productive so that they can reopen and operate safely without having to implement lockdowns.

It will be a one-year project, with funding worth $2.2 million (around 110.37 million) from the Japanese government, it added.

Khalid Hassan, director of the ILO Country Office for the Philippines, said given the challenges these businesses are facing, urgent measures are critical to support them in dealing with the impact of COVID-19, and to build back better and safer.

We need to also help people access safe and decent jobs in their own town, he added.

The program will cover provinces and non-metropolitan regions in the Philippines where COVID-19 risks are high, yet support is limited.

It aims to help in preventing and mitigating the impact of the health crisis and engage small business as well as the informal sector.

Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuhiko Koshikawa emphasized the important role of MSMEs in economic recovery, saying it is equally important to ensure occupational safety and health in the sector to sustain jobs and businesses in the new normal.

"This includes ensuring a safe return to work, digitalized operations, and safer and more productive workplaces, he pointed out.

MSMEs represent 99% of businesses, employing 7 out of 10 workers in the country, ILO noted.

Moreover, these firms contribute to 40% of the Philippines gross domestic product, it added.

But with lockdowns implemented to control the spread of coronavirus, movement was restricted including economic activities. This led to many businesses temporarily suspending operations or worst permanently shutting down.

The program will support existing programs of the different stakeholders, including existing programs under the Philippine governments COVID-19 response, specifically the National Employment Recovery Strategy and the Decent Work Country Program of the Philippines

It will supplement key policies and programs through safer and more digitalized operations of MSMEs in provinces, ILO said. As part of the Safety + Health for All Flagship program of the ILO, the project is aligned with the ILOs four policy areas for COVID-19 response.

This initiative will be implemented in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment, the Department of Information and Communications Technology, the Department of Trade and Industry, the National Anti-Poverty Commission, and employers and workers organizations in the Philippines, it also said.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 15) -- After "Kita Kita," real-life friends Alessandra de Rossi and Piolo Pascual are teaming up again for a new film coming out Thursday on Netflix.

De Rossi, alongside Empoy Marquez, starred in Kita Kita, a 2017 hit romantic movie produced by Spring Films, which Pascual co-founded.

Now, their latest collaboration "My Amanda" is both in front of and behind the camera. The film was directed and written by de Rossi, and co-produced by Pascual.

My Amanda tells the story of best friends Amanda (de Rossi) and TJ (Pascual), who "share every aspect of their lives together," read the movie's description.

The award-winning actress said she drew inspiration from her real-life experiences and that My Amanda's script was written "specifically" for Pascual, whom she previously credited for turning her life around after Kita Kita.

"It is about my friendships. Most of my friends are men," de Rossi said in a taped interview with CNN Philippines' New Day that aired on Thursday.

"Because he gave me an out-of-the-box character in Kita Kita. And I was thinking maybe I could do something out of the box for Piolo. And out of the box means showing the real Piolo," de Rossi added.

For his part, Pascual praised de Rossi's writing skills, saying "what is nice about this script that she wrote is more than half the time she was ad-libbing."

On accepting the role of TJ, the actor said: "It was easy. Because all she asked me is to 'come as you are.'"

"She goes: Just come to the set and you don't have to prepare because you are the exact character that I need," he added.

Favorite parts

Pascual described their film as a "visual delight" that is meant to be seen on a big screen.

Another thing to watch out for is what is "borne out of [the] relationship" between the lead characters of My Amanda, he added.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 15) Independent research group OCTA is recommending an extension of the general community quarantine in NCR Plus until the end of July.

In its monitoring report released on Thursday, OCTA said the NCR Plus  Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal  would benefit from retaining its GCQ status to prevent a resurgence in COVID-19 cases.

This is based on the risk assessment using Covid Act Now (developed with Harvard Health Institute, Bloomberg, Microsoft), low vaccination coverage, and the state of COVID-19 in the regions surrounding the NCR, OCTA said in its report.

The extension will also prevent an NCR Plus resurgence, it added.

The group, however, did not specify whether its recommendation was to place the bubble under a restricted or a regular GCQ.

Citing threats of coronavirus variants, OCTA Research fellow Ranjit Rye earlier proposed the extension of the current quarantine status in Metro Manila, which has been under GCQ "with some restrictions alongside Rizal and Bulacan.

Meanwhile, Laguna and Cavite have been under GCQ "with heightened restrictions.

OCTA reiterated its call for the national and local government units to continue expanded COVID-19 testing, tracing, and isolation and to enforce strict border controls to curb the spread of the virus.

The Philippines has so far recorded over 1.4 million COVID-19 cases.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 15)  An unknown number of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines may be discarded after the storage facility in a major vaccination site in Alabang, Muntinlupa encountered issues, local government officials said on Thursday.

Muntinlupa City said the vaccines stored in the Festival Mall facility will not be used anymore to ensure safety and efficacy. Local officials are still verifying how many Pfizer doses may have to be thrown out.

"Ayon sa inisyal na pagsusuri, nagkaroon ng pagbabago sa temperature na maaaring makaapekto sa kalidad ng bakuna. Prayoridad natin ang kapakanan ng bawat isa kayat nagdesisyon pong huwag nang gamitin ang mga bakunang ito. Mas mabuti na pong sigurado tayo dahil kaligtasan ng mga babakunahan ang nakasalalay dito," the statement said.

[Translation: Based on our initial investigation, there was a change in the temperature, which may affect the quality of the vaccines. We decided not to use the vaccines. It's better to be safe.]

The Department of Health, however, said the said vaccines will likely be validated by experts to determine its efficacy.

The vaccination activities in the mall will be temporarily suspended while they are fixing the storage facility.

Vaccines should be stored at a specific temperature identified by the manufacturer to guarantee its quality.
(CNN)  The Biden administration is examining the possibility of setting up an emergency hotline with the Chinese government similar to the so-called "red phone" established between the US and the Soviet Union during the Cold War, which allowed for direct communication with the Kremlin as a way to avert nuclear war.

While the concept is still in its infancy and has yet to be formally raised with the Chinese, the Biden administration wants to develop a rapid communication tool that could be folded into a broader effort to reduce the risk of conflict between the US and China, according to a US official and another source familiar with early conversations about the device.

A hotline to Beijing would let President Joe Biden, or top officials on his national security team, immediately send encrypted phone calls or messages to President Xi Jinping or those around him, according to the two sources. For example, urgent information could be shared about sudden military movements or warning messages sent about cyber hacks.

The idea of setting up a hotline with Beijing dates back to at least the Obama administration, though the concept wasn't codified into a classified national security memo until the final year of the Trump administration, according to a source familiar with the memo.

Biden administration officials have continued to pursue the idea, sources said, but there remain numerous details to work out, including whether the Chinese would even agree to use the device. There have long been issues with securing rapid responses from Beijing when it comes to urgent matters, current and former US officials told CNN. The top-down nature of the Chinese political system means that most contact beyond leader-level engagement is disincentivized.

A similar hotline to China already exists at the Pentagon and is supposed to be used exclusively for military matters but rarely is.

"We do have a hotline. It's known to have, the couple of times we've used it, just rung in an empty room for hours upon hours," said Kurt Campbell, the senior National Security Council Indo-Pacific coordinator, earlier this year during a conversation about US-China diplomacy and Taiwan.

The issues with the current system coupled with China's increasingly offensive military have led to mounting concerns among US national security officials about the potential of miscalculation with China, and a feeling that more needs to be done to increase communication.

"There is a worrisome shortage of tools for incident management in the US-China relationship. It is pretty urgent that the US government pursues working lines of communication which allow them to respond to a crisis or to prevent a crisis. We need a 911 operator so to speak," said Danny Russel, a former assistant secretary at the State Department. Russel added that it is imperative to also consider tools "that can be integrated into a wider crisis communication strategy, with the focus on broad risk reduction."

A senior administration official declined to discuss the device when asked about it but did say that "generally speaking, of course we have an interest in ensuring that competition with China is managed in a responsible way. We have been clear this relationship will be defined by competition and we welcome that stiff competition, but we will also continue to work to ensure this competition doesn't veer into conflict."

Working out the technical details

Officials at the State Department and the National Security Council are still working on how the device would technically work, sources told CNN. The next step would be developing the overall concept and working it into the Biden administration's plan for engagement with China. Then the device would need approval from the White House and from Chinese officials before being implemented.

While the "red phone" between the US and Russia was viewed as a useful tool that increased communication during the Cold War, its recent effectiveness is questionable. For example, the Obama administration used the hotline to the Kremlin to warn Russia not to interfere in the 2016 US elections, a warning that was not heeded.

The efficacy of a new hotline with China would be highly dependent on Beijing's commitment to using it and placing it in a position where Xi would have regular access to it.

"There would be advantages to setting up this kind of tool for high-level messaging with China on strategic cyber concerns, but you have to make sure it is connected to the right place in the chain to connect with leadership effortlessly and quickly," said Chris Painter, former State Department coordinator for cyber issues under President Barack Obama. "You may not get information back that you want, but it could be used to send messages back and forth to put people on notice."

Trouble with timely responses from China

In recent years the US and other countries have been unable to secure timely responses from China on pressing issues. For example, in the last year it has been challenging to get answers from China surrounding Covid-19, US officials said.

"There are challenges when it comes to reaching Chinese officials during times of difficulty. That is largely because the way their system works is top down. During the early days of the Covid-19 outbreak, we often did not get any response to critical questions," said a former US official who served in Beijing.

In 2014, China's state-owned oil company dispatched an oil rig to a contested area of the South China Sea and they would not respond to calls from Vietnam to discuss the matter.

The idea of connecting the White House and Beijing has been loosely discussed for years, but implementation had always seemed far off.

"We discussed the idea of a cyber messaging system with Chinese officials during the Obama administration. It was brought up in the context of our cyber discussions, but we did not make much progress. It was not clear where it was going to be placed in China, and China did not have the same history of confidence-building measures with the US that Russia did, so they viewed it in a more suspicious way," said Painter. "But I think now they understand more about how it could be used. It is not a silver bullet, by any means, but it does give you a useful tool."

On the whole, the Biden administration has said it plans to keep open lines of communication with China, though the early encounters have been tense.

During the Biden administration's first face-to-face with Chinese officials earlier this year, the two sides traded diplomatic barbs rarely seen in front of the cameras. While national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Biden's "priorities and intentions" were clearly laid out, both sides walked away without scheduling follow-up meetings or setting up any working groups.

When asked about a future meeting between Biden and Xi, the White House has not given any details.

"The administration is doing some hard thinking about what it is they really would want to pursue and how they foresee making headway on engagement with China. They have been careful and smart not to prematurely rush into full-scale engagement with China," Russel said.

And as the administration develops its diplomatic approach, former US officials say that merely setting up a new hotline won't be enough.

"Strategic risk reduction can be good, but up to a point, akin to basic hygiene. The central issue is that Beijing is hostile, predatory and highly capable, so the US must organize to defend and push back across the board. The Biden administration has said that they plan to do that. So while setting up a phone line can be useful, we shouldn't sink too much significant into it," said David Feith, a former State Department official who worked on China during the Trump administration.

As the China challenge mounts, Biden officials have publicly recognized the difficult nature of that challenge, and how much work it will take to address it.

"Do I think it's possible that the United States and China can coexist and live in peace? Yes, I do. But I do think the challenge is going to be enormously difficult for this generation and the next," said Campbell at an event last week.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Biden administration looks to set up 'red phone' to China for emergency communications."
(CNN)  After 26 Colombians were accused of assassinating Haitian President Jovenel Moise, a retired special forces soldier in Colombia has told CNN that they were actually hired to provide the leader security, and that he himself was approached for the job by a US-based company.

Matias Gutierrez, 45, told CNN he was contacted in early June by a fellow veteran named Mendivelso Gersain, who put him in touch with another man  retired Sgt. Duberney Capador  recruiting a group of private security guards to travel to Haiti.

Capador told the men he was working for a US-based company and created a WhatsApp group to coordinate the recruitment effort, Gutierrez alleged. The logo of Florida-based firm CTU Security was added as the icon of the WhatsApp group, which, Gutierrez said, at some point had more than 250 people in it.

"They only mentioned a company based in the US, and a job as private security in Haiti. Security for the President of Haiti, who was believed to be under death threat," Gutierrez told CNN.

Colombian police had already named CTU Security as the recruiter for the Haiti operation, but their Haitian counterparts believe a Haitian-born American, Christian Emmanuel Sanon, had hired CTU to recruit the 26 Colombians, characterizing them as mercenaries, as well as two Haitian-Americans.

When asked about the 26 Colombians and two other Haitian-Americans who are suspects in the investigation, Sanon emphasized that "he doesn't know anything at all," according to a source close to the investigation, who cannot be named because they are not authorized to discuss the affair. "He doesn't know. He doesn't know. This is what he said since the day authorities interviewed him," the source said.

CTU Security is headquartered in the Miami area and run by a Venezuelan man, Antonio "Tony" Intriago.

CNN has tried repeatedly to contact CTU Security since Saturday and has been unable to identify contact information for Intriago. Colombian police say they are working with Interpol to provide information on Intriago.

On Monday, Colombian police also claimed that the airfares for 19 the Colombian men were paid with a credit card linked to a company based in Miami.

About a month after the first recruitment approach was made, according to Gutierrez, Moise was killed in his private residence in the early hours of July 7. Capador was gunned down in an operation by Haiti police shortly afterward, on the same day, and Gersain remains detained as one of 20 Colombians captured after the assassination.

Gutierrez told CNN he had been in contact with the recruited Colombian guards several times while they were in Haiti. They told him the job was to supplement the Haitian presidential guard.

"They were not working in the inner circle," Gutierrez said. "A country would never put the safety of a president in the hands of a stranger. The inner circle is always a group of presidential guards or secret service in civil clothes. Our group was uniformed and working in support of the inner circle."

According to the Colombian police, Capador travelled to Port-au-Prince on May 10 with another Colombian man, retired Capt. German Rivera. A group of 11 retired Colombian soldiers followed them on June 4. It's unclear when Gersain arrived in Haiti.

At the end of May, Dimitri Herard, the Haitian chief of the General Security Unit at the presidential palace, also traveled to Ecuador through Bogota, according to the Colombian National Police. The force said July 12 that it is investigating whether Herard, while in Colombia, met with any of the Colombian nationals allegedly involved in the assassination.

Herard is currently under disciplinary measures in Haiti and was due to appear in court Wednesday, but he missed his appearance, citing "a precautionary measure ordered by the General Inspector of the Haitian Police," according to a letter from Herard that CNN has seen.

Gutierrez questions Colombians' involvement

Gutierrez, who works as a security guard for an oil company in Bogota, says he was attracted to the job by the good pay and the possibility to travel: "In Colombia, any job would pay you some three hundred USD, while this offer was for $2,700 per month, with food and accommodation included. I know people who are working right now in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, people in Kabul or Yemen, or even Syria. It was a similar job offer to those ones."

Gutierrez told CNN he is part of a wide network of retired special forces and commandos who work as private security at home and abroad. Colombian veterans are highly sought by private security companies because of their combat experience garnered from sustained warfare among the Colombian state, left-wing guerrillas and paramilitary groups.

Capador's sister told CNN her brother was also looking for a better salary abroad, saying he was struggling to get by on the state pension he received after 20 years of service in the Colombian army.

Gutierrez, as well as several relatives of other Colombians who traveled to Haiti, told CNN the accusations against the men do not add up.

"It was all a plot. How can you have this type of assassination and not have a single dead but the President himself? If my fellows had done the job, they would have had to enter the residence and kill the guards before killing the President. You would have seen a combat scene," Gutierrez said.

Capador's sister also told CNN she spoke with her brother in the morning on the day of the President's assassination, and that he told her they had arrived too late and could not save the target they had been hired to protect.

She said she last heard from her brother on the afternoon of July 7, when he told her he was negotiating the Colombians' surrender to the Haitian police, Capador told CNN, a claim CNN has not been able to independently verify.

After the news broke from Haiti, everything turned quiet on the WhatsApp group created to coordinate the recruitment effort, Gutierrez claims.

"Our group was called 'First Flight.' They created other groups because there were more than 250 people in that group, and they could not add more. Then everyone left. There's less than 50 people in it now."

Gutierrez said he felt the fact that there were so many people on the WhatsApp group suggested that the operation was nothing untoward.

"You don't do that if you need to kill somebody," he said.

"I've done those operations when I was in the military, and they would send a commando to kill a guerrilla leader or something similar. You're never more than eight people. Eight is the maximum, because otherwise too many people make the operation harder. This time they were adding more and more people."

His thoughts, he says, are for the families of the detained guards: "They didn't even receive their first salary, they had just got there. Now this happened, and probably the Colombians are going to be charged. Who knows when they'll see them again."

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Retired soldier claims 26 Colombians accused in Haiti assassination were actually hired to protect the President."
(CNN)  The head of security at Haiti's presidential residence has been placed in police custody, according to a close associate, as authorities continue to investigate the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise.

Dimitri Herard, who is the head of the General Security Unit of the National Palace, is being held at a police station in Port-au-Prince, according to associate Carl Martin, who is coordinating Herard's legal defense team.

When Herard asked the police why he was being held for the night, he was told the decision "came from above," said Martin, who spoke with Herard on Wednesday evening.

The Haitian National Police have not responded to CNN's request for comment.

Earlier on Wednesday, Herard did not appear for a court inquiry ordered by the Port-au-Prince public prosecutor, citing a mandatory appearance at the Inspector General's office.

"I have the honor to inform you, following the invitation sent to me by the public prosecutor's office of Port au-Prince. I am currently under a precautionary measure ordered by the General Inspectorate of the Haitian Police. As a result, I am not available to comply with the request of the public prosecutor," he said in a letter to the public prosecutor that CNN has seen.

"While I am willing to respond once this protective measure expires, I respectfully request a stay of execution from your office for this purpose as may be required," he added.

Moise was killed last Wednesday during an attack on his private residence, throwing the country into political chaos with multiple figures vying to lead the country. Authorities say the operation involved at least 26 Colombians, some former members of the Colombian military, hired through a Florida-based security company.

Herard, the head of security at the presidential residence, traveled to Ecuador through Bogota, the capital of Colombia, at the end of May, according to the Colombian National Police. The force said July 12 that it is investigating whether Herard, while in Colombia, met with any of the Colombian nationals allegedly involved in the assassination.

But several people, including relatives of Colombian suspects, told CNN the accusations against the men do not add up.

Matias Gutierrez, a retired special forces soldier in Colombia told CNN on Wednesday that the 26 Colombian suspects were actually hired to provide the President security, and that he himself had been approached for the job by the Florida company.

"They only mentioned a company based in the US, and a job as private security in Haiti. Security for the President of Haiti, who was believed to be under death threat," Gutierrez said.

"It was all a plot," he added. "How can you have this type of assassination and not have a single dead but the President himself? If my fellows had done the job, they would have had to enter the residence and kill the guards before killing the President. You would have seen a combat scene."

CNN has tried repeatedly to contact the Florida company, CTU Security, since Saturday. Colombian police say they are working with Interpol to provide information on its owner, a Venezuelan man.

Three US citizens have also been allegedly linked to the attack. James Solages and Joseph Vincent, both naturalized US citizens originally from Haiti, were detained last week. While, on Sunday, police detained Christian Emmanuel Sanon, also believed to be a naturalized US citizen, who is accused of orchestrating a complex multinational hit job in order to realize his own political ambitions.

Sanon has repeatedly emphasized that "he doesn't know anything at all," according to a source close to the investigation who cannot be named because they are not authorized to discuss the affair. Police have not announced any formal charges against Sanon, and it is not yet clear if Sanon has retained legal representation to address the charges. CNN was not able to reach him for comment.

Several of the suspects held by authorities also worked as US law enforcement informants, with ties to the FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration, according to people briefed on the matter. In total, at least 39 people have been implicated in the assassination so far.

The US has sent senior FBI and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agents to assist in the investigation, and the government is still evaluating requests for assistance from the Haitian government, said State Department spokesperson Ned Price on Tuesday.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Head of security at Haiti's presidential residence in police custody."
(CNN)  Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director-general of the World Health Organization, said access to raw data was a challenge at the start of the investigation into the origins of COVID-19 and called on countries to be cooperative with future phases.

We have done the phase one, and the phase one has shown some progress, but there are also some challenges that have to be addressed, he said during a news briefing in Geneva Thursday. One of the challenges is what you mentioned, you know, access to raw data, especially the data at the start of the pandemic, the raw data was not shared.

In the second phase, we are asking, actually, China to be transparent, open and cooperate, especially on the information, raw data we asked for at the early days of the pandemic, he said, noting WHO would be discussing phase two of the investigation with member states.

Tedros later said that he didnt think momentum had been lost on the origins investigation.

We need to continue the study in order to know what exactly happened, he said. If we know what happened, then we can prevent future similar crises or problems.

The investigation is one of the basics for outbreaks, regardless of their size, he said, and what is done when any outbreak happens, so that the origins can be understood.

There is the other part of it, especially considering the unprecedented nature of this pandemic, the number of people that died and the number of people that suffered, Tedros said. Take the number of deaths alone, more than four million, I think we owe it to them to know what happened. And everybody should cooperate to know what happened, and to prevent the same crisis from happening again. And thats why we need cooperation.

Read more here.
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Meanwhile, at the most recent meeting, District 6 Supervisor Jerry Engdahl asked Sebourn for an update on the census.

She said the totals will be completed by September, but by October her office should have the numbers so they can be used by gWorks.

We should have the results ahead of time, Sebourn said.

(Currently) gWorks is trying to get all those digitalized on the computer system for us. So when we get those numbers in September, we can enter them into the computer and so we can start working on that process.

Sebourn said she needs to start filing the results by Dec. 9 and they have to be finalized by Dec. 31.

County officials said they believe this software will give them an easier and smoother process for redistricting.

Originally, census data gathering was going to be finished in July 2020. Instead, that process was completed a few months later in October. Those delays affected the timeline for the approved census redistricting data, which is needed before further efforts can start.

Platte County Board Chairman and District 2 Supervisor Jerry Micek said the state looks at the census before handing the results to the County.
He worked his tail off to get there, Whitmore said. Actually, they both did.

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Ramaekers and Whitmore also credited Gaston in his leadership as he helped prepare Ramaekers for the competition.

Justin really took everything by the horns and led everything, Whitmore said.  He set us up for success.

Ramaekers said by never competing or taking a mechatronics course, the experience was a bit interesting. But, he added he and Gaston did extra work so he could learn more about the subject.

I just appreciate Justins help for that, Ramaekers said. He helped me prepare for the competition.

For the conference  which was held over Zoom - Ramaekers and Gaston took a written and oral exam. They were then given a series of problems that they had to solve and write down their solutions, Whitmore said.

Gaston - who graduated from CHS earlier this year  wasnt going to let this competition go by him. He and his partner were ready to compete at state in 2020 but the contest was canceled due to COVID-19.

By winning the silver medal this time around, Gaston said that allowed him to have some closure on not competing the year prior.
Jews will observe a fast day starting Saturday night; after the Sabbath ends Saturday, the holy day of Tisha BAv begins.

Tisha BAv is a Day of Mourning to commemorate many terrible disasters that occurred throughout Jewish history. The holy day is a fast day that occurs on the ninth (tisha) day of the month of Av in the Jewish calendar.

According to the Talmud (one of the Jewish holy books of commentary on the Torah), Tisha BAv is the day on which five separate misfortunes occurred. On the ninth of Av it was decreed that our fathers should not enter the Land, the Temple was destroyed the first and second times, Bethar was captured and the city [Jerusalem] was ploughed up (Mishna Taanit 4:6).

The fast day of Tisha BAv is one on which observant Jews commemorate multiple historical disasters. First, this is the day when the 12 spies, sent by Moses to scout the land of Canaan, returned to give their report. Ten of the spies (Joshua and Caleb were the exceptions) stated fearfully that the land was full of giants and that the Israelites would be slaughtered by the Canaanites. Of course, that negative report caused the Israelites to succumb to despair and to lose faith in God. Therefore, God decided that the generation that departed from Egypt would never see the Promised Land, but would die out in the desert.
Thus far, 21 sets of remains have been returned to Native American families over the four years, said Renea Yates, director of the Office of Army Cemeteries.

Disinterment is done at the request of family members, Yates said, and the Army works through tribal authorities to find the relatives of children whose identities are known through their headstones and archived records from the Carlisle Indian Industrial School.

We are working several requests with other individual families at this time, Yates said, which could lead to a fifth disinterment project at Carlisle in 2022.

Process

The recovery of remains is complicated by the fact that the gravesites were moved in 1927 as the Carlisle Barracks expanded. The area where the children were originally buried is now beneath buildings, Trimble said.

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This is likely the explanation for the unknown remains, Trimble said. The soldiers who exhumed the remains, placed them in new caskets, and re-buried them in 1927 were not experts in identifying complete skeletons  virtually no one at the time was. The soldiers would have inadvertently mixed up different sets of remains, particularly in cases where graves were very close together.
Now, she has a full-time job as a client support specialist with the Bill Wilson Center, where she works with young people who are in situations like hers. She says she doesn't worry about money like she used to, choosing to save most of what she gets from the guaranteed income program. She used some of it to buy things for her brother, whose interest in expensive electronics grows as he gets older.

And she used the money to save for a down payment for her dream car, a blue Subaru WRX.

I'm proud of myself, of where I am, she said. I don't have to stress and then isolate myself and overthink, Oh, Im not going to have enough money to pay my rent or pay my phone bill.

Santa Clara County's program has cost the county $1.4 million so far. Participants get the money on a debit card, which they can use for purchases or to withdraw money from an ATM. County officials ask them to fill out surveys to monitor how they are doing, but they haven't completed a thorough analysis, said Melanie Jimenez Perez, who oversees the program.

An analysis of a guaranteed program in Stockton found full-time employment increased among participants after the first year of receiving the money.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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Democrats see this as a landmark program along the same lines as Social Security, saying it will lead to better outcomes in adulthood that will help economic growth. But many Republicans warn that the payments will discourage parents from working and ultimately feed into long-term poverty.

Some 15 million households will now receive the full credit. The monthly payments amount to $300 for each child who is 5 and younger and $250 for those between 5 and 17. The payments are set to lapse after a year, but Biden is pushing to extend them through at least 2025.

The president ultimately would like to make the payments permanent  and that makes this first round of payments a test as to whether the government can improve the lives of families.

Biden invited beneficiaries to the White House to mark the first round of payments, saying in a Thursday speech that the day carried a historic resonance because of the boost it will give families across the nation.

This would be the largest ever one-year decrease in child poverty in the history of the United States of America, the president said. Millions of children and their families, starting today, their lives are about to change for the better. And our country would be better off for it as well.
Even after the White House explained that federal workers would not be enlisted for this effort, Rep. Madison Cawthorn (R-N.C.) warned that this could lay the groundwork to go door to door and take your guns. They could go door-to-door and take your Bibles.

Now that would be unconstitutional.

But going to extraordinary lengths to fight a pandemic isnt. In 1796, Congress passed An Act Relative to Quarantine, authorizing the president to direct the revenue-officers and the officers commanding forts ... to aid in the execution of quarantine and in the execution of the health laws of the states.

The president was George Washington, a man with some passing knowledge of the Constitution.

But you dont have to go back centuries to understand that federal action is neither illegal nor unconstitutional. Helping localities promote vaccination was part of the March COVID relief package, and such efforts been underway since April.

Besides, whats wrong with going door to door to inform people where, how and why they should get vaccinated?
Luckily, people vulnerable to Type 2 diabetes can reverse their risk. The National Diabetes Prevention Program is a research-based program focusing on healthy eating and physical activity which showed that people with prediabetes who take part in a structured lifestyle change program can cut their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 58% (71% for people over 60 years old). Visit reverseyourrisk.com to find a program, resources and to take a short risk quiz to see if you are at risk for developing diabetes.

Reverse Your Risk is a campaign funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to increase awareness of National Diabetes Prevention Programs in Missouri. This evidence-based program is designed to prevent and/or delay the onset of Type 2 diabetes in adults at high risk.

About the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services: The department seeks to be the leader in protecting health and keeping people safe. More information about DHSS can be found at http://health.mo.gov or find us on Facebook and Twitter @HealthyLivingMo
During the summer of 2015, and with their mother's permission, Skaggs took the girl and her brother with him on a road trip in his semi-truck.

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During the trip, Skaggs and the minors stopped at a truck stop in South Dakota, where he provided alcohol to them. After consuming the alcohol, Skaggs raped the girl while her brother slept in the top bunk of the semi-truck.

When the minors returned home, interviews were conducted by a social worker with the Virginia Department of Social Services and an investigator with the Lee County, Virginia, Sheriff's Office.

During the interview, the girl said that Skaggs had asked if she wanted to have sex, and she said no. Skaggs then took off her clothes and his own clothes and held her down while having sex with her. The girl recalled trying to get Skaggs off of her but said he kept holding her down and covering her mouth so she could not scream to her brother.

In or around the fall of 2015, a medical examination concluded that the girl was pregnant. She gave birth to a child in the spring of 2016.

The FBI collected DNA samples from Skaggs and from the girl's child. The DNA test results indicated Skaggs was the child's father with a probability of paternity greater than 99.999%.
APTC and VIT representatives with 4 of the 6 students awarded with bursaries.
When you Fail to Plan, you Plan to Fail. What does your messy desk say about you?
I have had the opportunity to serve as Lindas immediate supervisor for the past seven years, (during which) I have routinely witnessed Lindas passion for teaching and learning and her dedication to her students, Midock said. Quite honestly, Linda is second to none.

Haselton was also awarded Nathanael Greenes Educator of the Year award for 2020 and has been nominated for the Raising Caine award through GCPS 41 times since 2013. She also began an after-school remediation program in 1998 that she ran for 20 years.

This next school year will be my 25th and my last, as I will be retiring in June 2022, Haselton said. I never expected to be a teacher when I was in college getting a political science degree. It was when I was a Cub Scout den leader for my son and working with nine boys as they went through second grade through fifth grade that I realized I wanted to work with children; I was a career-switcher and it was the best decision I ever made.

Haselton said she loves being the intervention teacher because she understands where her students are coming from.
The Albemarle County school division will take over the Bright Stars preschool program, ending a 26-year-old partnership between the school system and local government.

Bright Stars is the countys public preschool program. Serving 4-year-olds, the program has been part of the countys social services department and is funded by local government and the Virginia Preschool Initiative. In the coming school year, the school division will take over the financial management of the program.

Officials say the transition will be seamless and wont affect services provided to families.

Maya Kumazawa, director of budget and planning for the division, told School Board members last week that the division would assume the leadership role of the Bright Stars program.

The division now will be responsible for applying for state preschool funds, known as the Virginia Preschool Initiative, as well as all programming and decision-making. The department of social services previously applied for and administered those funds.
Mathon said this is a common piece of feedback that he and Rosensweig have received and that they are working to create this component for the framework.

Members of the Planning Commission were most concerned with ensuring that developers would be held accountable for following through on proposed affordable housing projects.

Planning Commissioner Rory Stolzenberg said he liked that the proposal would have the potential to allow affordable housing development in any part of the city as opposed to just specific areas.

It lets us kind of turn that dial to say we want to make sure that projects are able to pencil in in every neighborhood, he said. In sensitive neighborhoods that have historically kind of been disenfranchised in the zoning process, we can create that dialogue.

City Councilor Michael Payne said he liked the framework, but wants to make sure plans for affordable housing projects would be followed through on.

[We need to] just make sure we dont end up in a situation where projects dont pencil out and we have a de facto downzoning for some neighborhoods that had racial covenant redlining  How do we ensure that were actually monitoring and keeping units affordable as part of the requirements of any overlay? Payne said.

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The climate author David Wallace-Wells suggested that current conditions should be regarded as heralding a permanent emergency. With policymakers struggling to absorb the very serious implications for human societies of current models, it is frankly difficult to take in the suggestion that these models may underestimate the threat. The prospect of the jet stream becoming locked, and weather systems such as tropical storms ceasing to move in the way to which we are accustomed, carries nightmarish possibilities.

If there is anything positive to be taken from this new information, and reports of the suffering and destruction caused by the heat, it can only be that it intensifies the pressure on policymakers to act. On July 7, the Switzerland-based Financial Stability Board issued a warning in advance of a G20 meeting in Venice. It urged finance ministers and central banks to take more notice of far-reaching climate impacts. Just how far-reaching these impacts will be depends on decisions taken by governments in the next months and years. So far, binding commitments to make the cuts in carbon emissions that are needed to avoid temperature rises above 2 degrees Centigrade are notable by their absence. With every worrying piece of climate news, the stakes ahead of Novembers U.N. climate change conference keep growing.
Andhra Pradesh: Fishing in troubled waters: No cheers for Vizag fishermen as fishes vanish, demand drops

July 15,2021 | Source: News Meter

The first fishing voyage to the sea has failed to bring cheers to fishermen of the Vizag region. Mechanized boat operators said they are not earning much due to low catch and low demand for fishes After the 61-day long deep sea fishing ban of the government ended, the fishermen set sail for the sea on June 16 from Vizag Harbour. Some mechanized boats returned to the harbour with their catch. But they were disappointed as the catch was far below their expectation. "We went on the first voyage with a lot of hope. But, we could hardly recover our expenses of Rs 60,000 incurred during the 14-day voyage," said PC Appa Rao, president of AP Mechanized Boat Operators' Welfare Association. Some boats returned with the brown prawn and other popular varieties. "As exporters are not interested to purchase the brown prawn citing low demand, we sold the catch in the domestic market at low prices," said Appa Rao. Normally, the first outing to sea after the ban fetches returns worth over Rs 4 lakh. But, this time they could manage to fetch catch worth around Rs 2.5 lakh only which is sufficient to meet fuel and other expenses only. The drop in brown prawn prices has set alarm bells ringing among mechanized fishing boat owners in the Vizag region. The marine food exporters are not ready to shell out more for brown prawns.



Citing that the demand for the Indian farmed Vannamei Shrimp is high in other states and abroad, the seafood exporters are offering low prices and very few are purchasing brown prawns. "Brown prawn should fetch us at least Rs 420 a kg. Then we will earn some profits. Otherwise, we will incur more losses," said Ch Satyanarayana Murthy, President of Visakha Dolphin Boat Operators' Association Pollution is the biggest reason for the low catch. Fishermen said due to the untreated effluents released by various industries into the sea, several fish species die and many do not breed. Deficient pre-monsoon rain is also another factor for the poor catch. The seafood lovers said Silver Pomfret or white pomfret (popular as Chanduva in local parlance) which is a species of butterfish and seer fish (konam in Telugu) have vanished from the market.



Key highlights



1) Out of 24 exporters in Vizag, only 3 to 5 purchase brown prawn (marine prawn)



2) Vizag fishing harbour operates over 700 mechanized boats and trawlers



3) Price of seer fish and silver pomfret range between Rs 700 and Rs1,000 a kg



4) Andhra Pradesh has been contributes over 45 per cent of the total export revenue in the seafood sector.



5) Andhra Pradesh exported 2,79,992 MT of marine products worth Rs 15,831.74 crore during 2020-21



6) Andhra Pradesh exported 2,93,314 MT of marine products worth Rs15,498.64 crore during 2019-2020.
Andhra Pradesh: Readies DPRs for construction of two cargo jetties

by Samdani MN

July 15,2021 | Source: The Times of India

After dilly-dallying for over three years, the state government has readied Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for construction of two cargo jetties - at Manchineallapet in Srikakulam and Chinthapalli in Visakhapatnam. The DPR for construction of another jetty at Budagatlapalem in Srikakulam is expected to be ready shortly. The state government is gearing up to float tenders for construction of the new jetties. In fact, the state government had proposed construction of new jetties in seven locations including Budagatlapalem, Chinthapalli, Manchineelapeta, Bhimili, Visakhapatnam fishing harbour, Rajayyapeta and Biyyaputhipa almost two years ago. The state requested the Centre to grant the financial assistance to take up the projects for the benefit of the fishermen under Coastal Berth Scheme (CBS), which is part of Sagaramala project. The Centre readily agreed to extend its support and directed the state government to ready the DPRs but it asked the state government to give 50 per cent as matching grant to its support. Sources said that each project would cost around Rs 30-40 crore.



The delay in readying the blue-print and unwillingness of the state government to share the burden is believed to have resulted in the delay of launching the project works. The state government had recently communicated to the Centre that the experts had visited the locations and submitted their reports on Manchineelapetta, Chinthapalli and Budagatlapalem. It said that it was waiting for inputs from the experts on the remaining four locations. The nodal officer is being persuaded for the pending inputs. We will forward the inputs as and when we receive, the state told the union ministry of shipping and ports. According to sources, the government had finalized the DPRs for Manchineelapetta and Chinthapalli and had uploaded the required documents for final clearance from the Centre. It also said that the DPR for Budagatlapalem was under finalization and the documents would be uploaded shortly. It said that DPRs of other locations, including Visakhapatnam fishing harbour, were pending due to the delay of inputs. The Centre is of the view that a floating structure, because of its inherent advantages, is an attractive solution.



The floating jetties have the advantage over the conventional quay and fixed concrete structures as they are a cost-effective solution and much cheaper than the price of conventional structures. Also setting up of floating structures is much faster when compared to conventional jetties. Usually, floating structures can be built in 6-8 months as compared to 24 months for conventional structures and its environmental impact is minimal. Expansions are easily feasible due to modular construction techniques, the Centre said.

 2021 Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd.
India: To oppose ditching of fishing subsidiaries at WTO: Report

July 15,2021 | Source: Money Control

India is likely oppose the scrapping of fisheries subsidies at a key meeting of trade ministers at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) on July 15, Bloomberg reported. Hectic negotiations are underway in Geneva on the matter of declining global fish stock which is also encouraged by government subsidies. Under the mandate from the WTO's 11th Ministerial Conference held in Buenos Aires in 2017 and the UN sustainable development goal target, negotiators have been given the task of securing agreement on disciplines to eliminate subsidies for illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.



They also aim to secure pacts to prohibit certain forms of fishery subsidies that contribute to overcapacity and overfishing, with special and differential treatment being an integral part of the negotiations. While developed nations are pushing for prohibitions on subsidies, India wants an equitable and balanced outcome as the country provides support to its small and marginal fishermen who depend on the sector for sustenance. Unlike some nations that provide billions of dollars of subsidies to their fishermen, India's subsidy amounts to only about Rs 770 crore. The government provides subsidies on things like fuel and boats. New Delhi is likely to push for phased scrapping of subsidies so as to reduce the impact on the fishing industry and poor fishermen, the report added. The sector provides livelihood to about 16 million Indian fishermen and fish farmers at the primary level and about twice the number along the value chain.



India will also argue that developed nations should assume more responsibility for the huge amounts of subsidies and should cut it down to reduce overfishing. The share of the fisheries sector in the total GDP (at current prices) increased from 0.40 percent in 1950-51 to 1.03 percent in 2017-18. WTO negotiations on fisheries subsidies were launched in 2001 at Doha, with a mandate to clarify and improve existing WTO disciplines on fisheries subsidies. That mandate was expanded in 2005 at the Hong Kong meet, including with a call for prohibiting certain forms of fisheries subsidies that contribute to overcapacity and overfishing.
Dubbed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as chronically homeless, these individuals face a gauntlet of obstacles in the quest for a safe place to live. HUDs endless End Homelessness in 10 Years campaigns, despite efforts by well-intentioned individuals and agencies, failed to overcome decades of budget cuts and congressional antipathy towards the broken and broke men and women wandering the streets.

Lesser known, though, is how HUDs policies grow homelessness. Millions of people not in HUD-funded shelters (for reasons including capacity and inflexible regulations) fail to qualify as homeless by HUD, and thus are ineligible for assistance. As Jani Koester, a longtime advocate for students experiencing homelessness in Madison, told me, If you are self-paying in a motel or doubled up, you are given a few phone numbers for other resources but not included in the system for HUD housing supports. Koester convened a committee to address the invisible homeless family and youth population across Dane County.

Why expand services for those who lack places of their own to live? Because research confirms that family and youth homelessness becomes the unwitting feeder system for adults on the streets. Trauma and instability experienced by youngsters can fester into adult homelessness. As I interview parents, I ask if they were homeless as kids. Many were.
Defense attorneys argued that Ramos suffered from a delusional disorder as well as autism and obsessive-compulsive disorder. They contended Ramos became consumed with the idea that the article had ruined his life. As his defamation appeals failed, his lawyers said he came to believe there was a vast conspiracy against him involving the courts and the newspaper.

Prosecutors, however, repeatedly pointed to shortcomings in the mental health evaluations done by the defense, which relied mostly on interviews with Ramos and his sister.

Prosecutors said Ramos acted out of revenge for the article. They said his long, meticulous planning for the attack and the manner in which he carried it out  including plans for arrest and long incarceration  proved he understood the criminality of his actions.

They emphasized how Ramos called 911 from the newsroom after the shooting, identified himself as the gunman and said he surrendered  evidence he clearly understood the criminality of his actions. He was arrested while facedown under a desk.

Anne Colt Leitess, the Anne Arundel County states attorney, said that although Ramos has personality disorders like narcissism, he does not have serious mental illness that would have qualified him to be found not criminally responsible for five murders.
Denton, TX (76205)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms in the morning, then partly cloudy late. High 92F. Winds NNE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

A few clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 72F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
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Ethio Telecom, the state-run telco in Ethiopia, reported an 18.4% rise in full-year revenue to end-June to 56.5 billion birrs ($1.29 billion) and a 22% jump in subscribers to 56.2 million.

According to Firehiwot Tamiru, the CEO of Ethio- telecom achieved through network optimising work to enhance customer experience and satisfaction. The company offered 34 new and 28 revamped local and international products and services.

Mobile voice accounts for 47.5% of the total revenue while Data and Internet contribute 27%, International business shares 11%, Value Added Service accounts for 9.5% and the remaining 5% comes from other sources, said a press release from the company.

The CEO also said the expansion of 4G services outside the capital Addis Ababa was one of the reasons behind the jump in revenue despite it being a challenging year.

"Our total subscribers reached 56.2 Million achieving 108% of the subscriber base target and an increase of 22% from June 2020 landing. Mobile voice subscribers reached 54.3 Million, Data and Internet users 25 Million, Fixed Services 912K, and Fixed Broadband subscribers reached 374K. Population and geographic coverages are 95% and 85.4% respectively. Telecom density has reached 54.8%," the release said.

Frehiwot said 6.58 million customers had signed up to use its mobile money service, known as Telebirr, which it launched in May. The platform allows users to send and receive money, deposit or take out cash at appointed agents, pay bills to merchants and receive cash sent from abroad.

"Currently, we are running 132 projects on infrastructure and system capacity expansions and enhancements aiming to boost network coverage capacity and quality of services out of which projects like the expansion of 4G/LTE and 4G/LTE Advanced, Modular Data Center, smart poles, Next Generation Business support system are completed," the release said.
Were zooming up on the start of school. Im super excited Washington State University is going to completely be back to normal, with no restrictions. That is the appropriate response to the end of the pandemic, and it is a statement against irrational fear, and pro-science. COVID-19 has now
St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church will host a program for anyone interested in learning the teachings of the church Christ founded, the Catholic Church. The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults series starts Wednesday, Aug. 11 at 6:30 p.m. and continues each Wednesday at 123 Heath Street in Enterprise. For more information, call 334-347-6751 or 334-464-1930.

Enterprise Womens Day Class of Community Bible Study will begin Aug. 16. The class will meet on Mondays from 10 a.m. until noon in the chapel of First Baptist Church located on 302 North Main Street. For those who cannot meet in person, a dedicated online Core Group will be offered. The class will spend 30 weeks studying 1 and 2 Peter and Revelation. Online registration is open now for the in-person class or the online Core Group at enterprise.cbsclass.org, or interested parties can contact the Class Coordinator by phone at 334-494-2039 or by email bandL@yahoo.com. Registration will be offered throughout the year. A Childrens Ministry is in progress, and children will be put on a waiting list.
To incentivize shopping downtown, All In Credit Unionthe super sponsor of the eventwill randomly reimburse a set number of transactions up to $25 for members who use their All In credit card at a downtown shop or restaurant over the two days. The credit union is also sponsoring a $250 downtown shopping spree; Kendrick said shoppers who provide receipts of purchases totaling $25 will be entered to win the giveaway, and additional tickets can be purchased for $5. All proceeds will go to the Shop with a Cop program for its back to school shopping event.
This years Wiregrass United Way Pacesetter Kickoff will begin at 8:30 a.m. with a short program followed by an exciting service project on Tuesday, Aug. 3, at the Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center in Dothan.

United Way volunteers will package 30,000 meals to feed individuals and families in need throughout southeast Alabama, and these meals will be distributed by the Wiregrass Area Food Bank.

Each year, approximately 100 area businesses and organizations agree to conduct their employee fundraising campaign for the Wiregrass United Way between early August and mid-September. These businesses are considered Pacesetters because they jump-start the annual United Way campaign and set the pace for the remainder of the year. It is not too late for companies to register to be a Pacesetter.

Pacesetters are vital to the success of the overall campaign because they allow the Wiregrass United Way to start their overall fundraising one month early. The United Ways goal is to complete all employee campaigns by the end of October to avoid raising money during the holidays. Additionally, the Pacesetter campaign enables the Wiregrass United Way to have a significant amount of money raised when the official campaign kickoff is held on Sept. 23.
WHAT IS THE AFFORDABILITY IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Florida's Tampa Bay area has seen some of the highest rent increases in the country over the past year, with median rents about $1,500 a month in May, surging nearly 16.9% from a year earlier, according to Realtor.com. Cities in South Florida, including Miami and Fort Lauderdale, saw rents spike nearly 6% over the same time period. South Florida already has some of the country's most expensive rents, with monthly median rent about $2,000.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Housing advocacy groups are bracing for more homeless families as the federal moratorium expires. But it's hard to tell how big of a problem it will be, according to Ron Book, who chairs the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust.

We don't know what we'll really face, Book said. But I've had sleepless nights thinking about the elderly who could become homeless for the first time."

The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that more than 400,000 Floridians are not current on rent  and about a fourth of them believe they are likely to be evicted within two months. Where they will go is an open question.
Elsewhere in the state, by the end of the first week of June, the metro Atlanta county of Cobb had distributed roughly $3.5 million of the $22.8 million in federal rental assistance funds it received. Nonprofits that are distributing the funds there have said rigorous federal eligibility requirements made it hard to come up with a coordinated system to process applications, according to county officials. In nearby DeKalb County, an even smaller share of the money has gone out so far. County officials have blamed delays on a cyberattack in March on a server handling rental assistance applications.

The state's money can go toward 12 months of past due rent and utility bills and is paid to landlords and utility providers, according to the community affairs department's website. Siegel said if landlords choose not to participate, she'd like to see money flow directly to tenants.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Courts have tried to connect tenants to rental assistance programs. But in some counties, there's not enough collaboration between the programs and the court system and applications aren't reviewed fast enough to prevent eviction orders, said Viraj Parmar, managing attorney with the Housing Court Assistance Center in Atlanta.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?
In June 2000, Jaar filed a civil suit against the U.S. government seeking the return of a large amount of cash taken from him along with his passport and tourist visa when he was stopped in a rental car by customs agents. He was not arrested at the time, but Jaar said he learned he was under investigation for money laundering.

The government later returned his property and did not file charges. Jaar, who dropped the lawsuit, described himself in court papers as the owner of a successful import business in Haiti. He said his family has operated the enterprise since 1944.

Authorities in Haiti are investigating Moises killing with help from Colombias government, which has said at least 18 former Colombian soldiers suspected in the slaying have been arrested and remain detained in Haiti. Charles said three Haitians also have been arrested and at least three suspects killed, adding that they continue to investigate those detained to identify the masterminds behind the slaying.

The detained Haitians have been identified as Solages, Joseph Vincent and Christian Emmanuel Sanon.
In an intolerable start to the corruption trial of Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakely, jury selection began in secret. While the judge ultimately opened the proceedings Tuesday afternoon, it is unfortunate that it took a court filing from The Daily and other media outlets before transparency prevailed.

Open criminal court proceedings are a fundamental component of our court system, a system that at its core recognizes that jurors  members of the public  are the ultimate arbiters of justice. Whatever may be the case in Russia or China, in America the First and Sixth amendments to the U.S. Constitution and numerous court rulings have made clear that the transparency of criminal proceedings is paramount.

As far back as 1908, the Alabama Supreme Court noted the universal policy underlying the judicial systems of this country (that) secrecy in the exercise of judicial power  is not tolerable or justifiable.

This fundamental precept is especially important in public corruption trials such as the one that began Monday in the prosecution of Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakely. Unlike most criminal trials, prosecutions for the alleged corruption of a public official are focused not on a single victim, but on the betrayal of the public trust.
At last check, there were no Alabama co-sponsors on either H.R. 82 or S. 1302, the Social Security Fairness Act. This is the first-time efforts to repeal the unfairness of the Windfall Elimination Provisions and the Government Pension Offset (a reduction in your Social Security or your spousal annuity) has been in both the House and the Senate at the same time. This affects Civil Service employees hired during the late 1970s.

Public servants across the country receive reduced Social Security benefits due to the current law. The repeal of these outdated laws affects more than 2.5 million Americans. This repeal is a small fix that affects 716,662 federal retirees, 83% of whom are women. A large majority (more than 70%) of spouses and survivors see their Social Security benefits eliminated completely. The Civil Service Retirees Medicare cost comes out of pocket due to reduced or no Social Security contribution.

We are asking our senators and representatives to look after the people who had careers in public service by working as Civil Service employees for our government.
National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines plans to form a cargo carrier as part of efforts to shore up its business that has been hard hit by Covid-19 outbreaks.

The carrier has converted seven passenger planes into cargo carriers  five wide-bodied Airbus A350s and two narrow-bodied A321s, Vietnam Airlines chairman Dang Ngoc Hoa said at its annual shareholders meeting Wednesday.

In June, its cargo transport revenue, which normally accounts for 10 percent of the total, surpassed that of passenger transport.

According to Vietnam Airlines CEO Le Hong Ha, the airlines has considered establishing a cargo carrier for years, but the time was not considered opportune.

Over the past two years, and especially in recent months, cargo transport has generated bigger revenues, so Vietnam Airlines is considering the plan more seriously, Ha said.

Chairman of retail company Imex Pan Pacific Group, Johnathan Hanh Nguyen, has asked for permission to establish a cargo airline named IPP Air Cargo with an investment of $100 million, but the national aviation authority has informed the transport ministry that it will not recommend the establishment of any new carrier until 2022, given the pandemic situation.

Budget airline Vietjet has re-configured 4 Airbus A321s to transport cargo.

Meanwhile, foreign express delivery giants like DHL and UPS have increased flights and payloads to transport goods to Vietnam by air.

According to a transport ministry report sent to the government, the proportion of cargo transport in local airlines total revenues in one year amid the Covid-19 outbreaks tripled against the pre-pandemic period.

In the first half of this year, Vietnam Airlines racked up losses of some VND9.823 trillion (nearly $427.1 million). It has estimated consolidated losses of VND14.526 trillion this year, up nearly 30 percent against last year, and consolidated revenues of nearly VND37.4 trillion, down 11.6 percent.
People sit at prescribed distances from each other at a supermarket in HCMC, waiting for their turns to shop, July 11, 2021. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran.

Among a range of measures that HCMC can take for effective pandemic containment, foreign experts advise increased public awareness that allows for smart and not strict social distancing.

On July 9, HCMC began its second 15-day citywide social distancing order under Directive 16 as the nations current Covid-19 epicenter seeks to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The order requires people to stay home and only go out to buy food, medicines or work in essential factories and businesses allowed to remain open.

Andrei Akhmetzhanov, Assistant Professor, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, said the introduction of stricter control measures is mainly guided by how much the healthcare system is stretched, therefore he assumed that the healthcare system in HCMC has been under significant pressure recently.

A recent mobilization of 10,000 medical personnel for the city is evidence, he said.

Recently, HCMC has been recording several hundred new cases daily, accounting for the most cases in Vietnam since new wave hit the country late April. On July 14, the citys and nation's total numbers topped over 17,200 and 31,000 respectively.

Akhmetzhanov predicted that the city could see a rise in case numbers in the first or the second week after announcing social distancing. He explained that there was some delay in reporting of new cases, not all cases are confirmed right away, there is an incubation period of about five days from their day of infection plus another five days or more will go before the person would seek healthcare and get tested. It means that case numbers people see today in HCMC were infected about two weeks ago.

As a result, if the healthcare system was already stretched, there will be much more pressure for one more week. Moreover, the higher counts of severe cases can't be avoided, unfortunately.

Nonetheless, it is proven that with social distancing, the cases will go down sooner or later. In other words, if people comply with the regulations by staying home and restricting their social activities, HCMC will see the numbers go down.

"At this moment, people need to understand and try to help the government by following the rules," Akhmetzhanov said.

Associate Professor Alex Cook, Vice Dean of the Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, Singapore, said it was a good time for HCMC authorities to apply social distancing because the number of cases was growing, indicating additional infections that the local government did not know about. One of the problems is there is a greater percentage of cases which are unlinked, suggesting the virus is widespread in the community.

Cook said that looking at the number of cases, the situation in HCMC is quite similar to that of Singapore in April last year when the city state enforced its own social distancing called circuit breaker. That measure helped Singapore to bring down the number of community cases to a manageable level. If that can be replicated, "it may not be too late for HCMC."

With the Delta variant, which is about twice as transmissible as the original Wuhan strain, control is challenging, highlighting the urgency to get vaccines into bodies as fast as possible, Cook said.

In Singapore, the authorities had a small scale of social distancing a couple of months ago, because they were getting concerned that there were too many community cases. Covid-19 vaccination in Singapore has been acting like a car brake on the transmission of the Delta variant, cooling down the transmission ability, he added.

In the longer term, Cook said Singapore aimed to stop counting new cases on a daily basis and focus on counting severe cases. This can happen when the disease has become endemic, something that people live with, once herd immunity is achieved with vaccination.

Social distancing risks

On July 9, HCMC authorities announced that they will continue with the mass testing that began June 26 and target collecting 1.3 million samples a day.

Assessing the risk in mass testing, considered a measure that could help Vietnam to "find all positive cases," Cook said the authorities may not know if positive cases found are current or recovered (from previous periods) or a combination.

In fact, when Singapore carried out mass PCR testing, it found that there were people who had Covid-19 a month before testing and had antibodies in their blood. In other words, they recovered from mild infections but they still tested positive by PCR testing because there were still fragments of the virus in their noses and respiratory tracts.

On balance, Cook said, mass testing was valuable but some thought would be needed on what to do with the positive test results, since not all of them will be infectious. What Singapore did in such cases was to carry out serology tests afterwards and assumed that seropositives were those who had recovered. That is not a completely fool-proof solution though, because of the (small) risk of reinfections.

"If there is sufficient capacity, follow up serology testing might be valuable in making isolation and contact tracing easier."

In reality, Cook said, Singapore is doing regular mass testing for some high risk groups such as healthcare workers and foreign workers working on construction sites. Tests are done once a week or every two weeks.

Moreover, Singapore is looking at using new technologies like breathalyzers to try and detect the virus in people's breaths.

Sharing similar concerns about the risks in mass testing, Professor Juhwan Oh with the Seoul National University College of Medicine, South Korea, said it could lead to a huge loss of resources because there are people who have been negative for a long time, and healthcare workers have to "do the same job" during this period. For example, among 1,000 people, there may be just one positive case.

Moreover, there is a high risk of infection spreading from long queues waiting for mass testing if someone is positive, Oh said, adding that it had happened in Wuhan, China last year.

He recommended that instead of doing mass testing, Vietnam may consider increasing personnel to test at isolation and quarantine facilities, which will work well. He said high risk groups could be the possible target of more extensive testing compared to previous weeks, with more number of tests per person, instead of doing it for everyone regardless of risk.

Oh also said he strongly supported Vietnams zero Covid strategy.

"However, mass testing will outgrow a situation or prove unhelpful for implementing that strategy by wasting testing capacity and the time of the officers."

Pointing to another risk in the new social distancing in HCMC, Oh said Vietnam should notice that poor people carry a higher risk of being infected if one family member tests positive because they share a room together. At the same time, the rich are safe during social distancing. This happened in India last year as the country had a lockdown to contain Covid-19.

To reduce the risks of infection in families, Oh said Vietnam may need to increase the number of quarantine facilities in every community.

"Increasing quarantine centers may help reduce the number of intensive care units (ICU) in the future."

Emphasizing the importance of "speed" in the new wave, Oh said authorities should increase human resources for contact tracing, testing, and quarantining in order to facilitate early detection and preventive monitoring. Otherwise, actions are delayed, leading to people circulating in the community during even one day delay. In fact, Vietnam had done these tasks quite well until March 2021, he said.

Akhmetzhanov, meanwhile, said that some people escaping from quarantine facilities in Vietnam showed they did not have much faith in them.

Health and the economy

Several experts said HCMC could have been late in applying social distancing because it was trying to implement the nations strategy of containing the pandemic alongside economic development.

On July 7, the Vietnamese government asked the public to be understanding in case social distancing or lockdowns were imposed on a large scale to contain the coronavirus.

The Government Office, citing Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, said the coronavirus situation in HCMC remained dire, posing a serious infection threat to nearby areas. This called for stricter, more aggressive measures.

Oh said the trade-off concept of health and economy has no room in a Covid-19 situation. If a country contains the pandemic well, the economic loss can be small, but if it does not reduce the scale of the pandemic, the economic loss could be high.

"If you let the number of deaths increase, your economic loss will increase too. You will lose both. That's the worst situation."

He recalled that this was the situation in the U.S. and U.K. last year before vaccination.

Oh emphasized that other countries, Vietnam in particular, can resort to "smart, not strict social distancing," by increasing people's awareness of Covid-19 transmission mechanisms between two persons. People would, on their own volition, wear masks, keep physical distance of two meters, and ensure interpersonal hygiene. In closed spaces, ventilation must work well.

According to Akhmetzhanov, the rising number of new cases in Vietnam, South Korea and Japan are connected to the so-called economic opening.

In Taiwan, authorities adopted a careful approach. For example, if the number of new cases per day not linked to previous infections is below 10 for seven days, the local government would open up carefully, he said.

Akhmetzhanov hoped that the relief package announced by the Vietnamese government about a month ago will support small businesses to adjust operations and survive the pandemic.

Cook said vaccination was realistically the only means out in the long term, because the virus is set to become endemic on a global level.

"Any other interventions like social distancing are stop-gap measures to delay things until the vaccine becomes available."
Vials labelled "Astra Zeneca Covid-19 Coronavirus Vaccine" and a syringe are seen in front of a displayed AstraZeneca logo, in this illustration photo taken March 14, 2021. Photo by Reuters/Dado Ruvic.

Thailand is considering imposing limits on exports of locally manufactured AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccines to fight its own crisis, a move likely to impact neighbors and stir concerns of vaccine protectionism.

Any attempt to regulate exports could further slow vaccine rollout to Malaysia, Vietnam and Indonesia, which are also battling spikes in infections and supply disruptions caused by earlier export curbs imposed by India.

The move also marks a fresh setback to AstraZeneca, which had initial delays in regional production and delivery and hoped to put it back on track from this month and meet its supply commitments to the region.

Nakorn Premsri, a key member of the National Vaccine Committee, told reporters when asked about a plan to place a quota on vaccine exports that the committee had "agreed in principle" on such a draft order.

"Right now, the order has not been issued yet," Nakorn said, adding that various agencies will need to review it and consider its impacts.

He did not address at what levels export quotas might be set.

Thailand is suffering its worst coronavirus outbreak yet, with hundreds of deaths in recent weeks and more than 8,000 new infections reported on many days this month - and only about 5 percent of its more than 66 million population is fully vaccinated.

AstraZeneca said in a statement its Thailand-manufactured vaccine "is of critical importance" to neighboring countries where the pandemic is also accelerating.

"We are actively working with the government in Thailand and governments across Southeast Asia to continue to deliver equitable vaccine access to the region," the statement said.

In late June, AstraZeneca Thailand said its partner Siam Bioscience, owned by King Maha Vajiralongkorn, would produce 180 million doses this year, just over a third for Thailand and two thirds for elsewhere in Southeast Asia.

"Right now we will talk with the vaccine manufacturer so they can deliver the vaccine to Thailand in a suitable manner that matches the outbreak situation in the country," Nakorn told reporters.

AstraZeneca delivered 6 million doses, as promised, to Thailand in June when the country's mass vaccine rollout started. A Thai official last month said a similar volume would be delivered in July, short of the previously announced 10 million monthly doses.

Thailand has been producing the AstraZeneca vaccine since June and is slated to export it to several other countries in Southeast Asia, as well as Taiwan. The Philippines and Malaysia are among countries that have experienced delivery delays.

Thailand's government has so far used the AstraZeneca's viral vector vaccine and Sinovac inactivated virus vaccine.
People in HCMC line up to shop at a supermarket in Binh Thanh District, July 14, 2021. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran.

Vietnam recorded 801 local Covid-19 cases Thursday morning in 11 cities and provinces, with HCMC reporting 603 cases.

Of the new cases detected in the southern metropolis, 547 were found in quarantine zones and locked down areas and 56 are being contact traced.

The city's neighbor Dong Nai Province recorded 72 cases, with 16 coming into close contact with previously confirmed patients, 47 returning from HCMC, and nine having unclear infection sources.

Mekong Delta's Dong Thap Province registered 36 cases that are associated with existing patients.

Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province that borders HCMC recorded 17 cases, including nine have contact with Covid-19 patients, two returning from HCMC and six being contact traced.

An Giang Province in the delta reported eight cases: four are linked to previous cases and four returned from HCMC.

In central Vietnam, Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa provinces got 18 cases each, and all have been isolated prior to their test results.

Ninh Thuan Province recorded seven cases, one having contact with a Covid-19 patient and six with unknown transmission sources.

The case in Central Highlands's Dak Nong Province is associated with a previously confirmed case.

Hanoi got 11 cases linked to previous patients and the nearby Hung Yen Province had 10 cases that are also related to confirmed patients.

Since April 27 when the new wave started, Vietnam has recorded 34,659 infections in 58 of the nation's 63 cities and provinces.

HCMC has the most infections, 19,405.

The nation has got more than 4.14 million of its 96-million population vaccinated and 286,772 have received two doses.
People flying to HCMC are tested for Covid-19 at Hanoi's Noi Bai Airport, July 14, 2021. Photo by VnExpress/Giang Huy.

Vietnam recorded 1,889 new local Covid-19 cases in 26 localities Thursday night, with HCMC accounting for the majority of the cases.

1,399 cases were recorded in HCMC, 122 in Binh Duong, 63 in Dong Thap, 60 in Dong Nai, 41 in Long An, 33 in Da Nang, 30 each in Ben Tre and Phu Yen, 17 each in Vinh Long and Binh Thuan, 13 in Binh Phuoc, 12 in Hung Yen, 11 in Can Tho, 10 in Ninh Thuan, seven in Hanoi, four each in Soc Trang, Quang Ngai and Khanh Hoa, three each in Bac Ninh and Tra Vinh, and one each in Binh Dinh, Ca Mau, Vinh Phuc, Lam Dong, Dak Lak and Bac Giang.

The HCMC Center for Disease Control (CDC) also added 689 more cases that had previously been detected in quarantine zones to its tally.

In HCMC, 1,260 newly recorded cases have been contained within quarantine and locked down zones, and 129 are being contact traced.

Among the southern localities, 80 of the cases in Binh Duong are close contact cases, 13 others returned from HCMC, and 29 are being contact traced.

57 cases in Dong Thap have been contained within quarantine zones, and six are being contact traced.

26 cases in Dong Nai have been contained within quarantine zones, seven returned from HCMC, and 27 are being contact traced.

27 cases in Long An have been contained within quarantine zones, seven returned from HCMC, and seven are being contact traced.

29 cases in Ben Tre are close contact cases, and one is linked to the Binh Dien Market in HCMC.

16 cases in Vinh Long are linked to a company in Long Ho District, and one returned from HCMC.

Seven cases in Binh Phuoc are close contact cases, and six are linked to the Thu Duc Market in HCMC.

Four cases in Can Tho are close contact cases, three others are linked to the Tan An Market in the city, two returned from HCMC and two returned from Binh Duong.

Two cases in Soc Trang are close contact cases, and two returned from HCMC.

One case in Tra Vinh is a close contact case, one returned from HCMC, and one returned from Tien Giang.

The case in Ca Mau returned from HCMC.

In central Vietnam, 27 of the cases in Da Nang have been contained within quarantine zones, one returned from HCMC, and five are being contact traced.

All the cases in Phu Yen, Binh Thuan, and Quang Ngai have been contained within quarantine zones.

All the cases in Ninh Thuan and Khanh Hoa are linked to existing Covid-19 patients.

All the cases in Binh Dinh, Lam Dong and Dak Lak returned from HCMC.

In northern Vietnam, the cases in Hanoi, Bac Ninh and Hung Yen are close contact cases while those in Vinh Phuc returned from HCMC.

The case in Bac Giang, a 23-year-old woman, is being contact traced.

Since April 27 when the new wave started, Vietnam has recorded 37,237 infections in 58 of the nation's 63 cities and provinces.

On Thursday alone, the nation recorded 3,379 cases, an all-time high daily tally.

HCMC has the most infections, 21,493 cases.
The discussion, set to begin at 3 p.m. Pacific time, is part of a larger project of the newspaper titled Defending America, which draws on our nations principles and rich history to educate the public on the critical issues facing the United States today, such as constitutional rights, censorship, integrity of elections, and the threat of socialism.

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Based in New York City, The Epoch Times was founded by a company affiliated with Falun Gong, a popular movement in China that reportedly drew persecution from the Chinese government and has been critical of the Chinese Communist Party.

Steninger was appointed to the county commission in 2014 by then Gov. Brian Sandoval after the death of Grant Gerber, and elected to the position in 2016. He was editor and co-publisher of the Elko Daily Free Press from 1992 to 1999.

Steninger has been a vocal opponent of coronavirus restrictions imposed by Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak.
ELKO  Vitality Unlimited, established in Elko in 1971, was recently informed by the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration that they have been awarded two grants at $4 million each.

These grants will enable Vitality Unlimited to expand their already successful Carson City and Dayton Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics to add a new CCBHC in Reno.

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Vitality Unlimited opened their first CCBHC, Vitality Integrated Programs  Complete Behavioral Health, in Elko on July 1, 2017, as part of a public-private partnership between Vitality Unlimited and the State of Nevada Department of Public and Behavioral Health. The Carson City and Dayton CCBHCs opened February 1, 2019. The expansion into the Reno location will occur sometime after August 31, 2021.

To qualify for certification, CCBHCs provide core services across the lifespan, utilize evidence-based practices and health information technology, report on quality measures, and coordinate care with primary care providers and hospitals in the community.

Populations to be served are adults with serious mental illness, children with serious emotional disturbance, and those with long term and serious substance use disorders, as well as others with mental illness and substance use disorders.

The demonstration program reflects a broader administration-wide strategy to create a health care system that results in better care, smarter spending and healthier people.

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COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)  The University of South Carolina president has indicated he does not plan to ask the Legislature for permission to change the names of nearly a dozen campus buildings that a special committee says honors racists and Civil War figures.

Instead, interim university president Harris Pastides said he will encourage school leaders to concentrate on honoring deserving people on new buildings with the same committee suggesting a number of prominent Black leaders.

The police killing of George Floyd in May 2020 led to the removal of building names and statues to racists and Confederates across the South.

None of that happened in South Carolina because of a law called the Heritage Act passed in 2000 that requires a two-thirds vote from the General Assembly to change the name of any building based on a historical figure. In the past 21 years, lawmakers have not even taken a vote on any request from the Civil War or segregation eras.
Words matter, Carville insists. You ever get the sense that people in faculty lounges in fancy colleges use a different language than ordinary people? They come up with a word like Latinx that no one else uses. Or they use a phrase like communities of color. I dont know anyone who speaks like that. I dont know anyone who lives in a community of color.... This is not how voters talk. And doing it anyway is a signal that youre talking one language and the people you want to vote for you are speaking another language.

In the real world, for example, people wake up to headlines like these, which arrived in my inbox as I composed the preceding paragraph: UAMS officer kills gun-wielding man; Police ID man fatally shot at apartment complex; and 15-year-old arrested in killing of Jacksonville man.

One medium-sized southern city; one ordinary weekday in July.

Abolish the police? In which solar system, pray tell?

So no, what with homicide rates rising sharply nationwide, I was not surprised to see Eric Adams, a Black former NYPD captain who campaigned on making New Yorkers feel safe and restoring confidence in the citys police, winning a Democratic primary that makes him the citys de facto mayor-elect.
The Nashville Tennessean first broke the news on Tuesday, the day after Tennessee's top vaccination official, Dr. Michelle Fiscus, was fired from her post.

This approach to vaccinations not only makes the recovery from covid-19 more difficult, but threatens vaccine take up for all infectious diseases in the future.

What reasons have been given for stopping all vaccines?

Republican lawmakers accused the health agency of attempting to pressure minors to be vaccinated.

In a June hearing lawmakers chastised the state's health department.

The Department of Health is targeting our youth, Republican Rep. Scott Cepicky said during the hearing. When you have advertisements with a young girl with a patch on her arm all smiling, we know how impressionable our young people are.

In a surprising move they then discussed dissolving the entire health department to stop its vaccine advertisements. Department leaders are scheduled to reappear before the lawmakers for more questioning on July 21.

Despite what top Republicans have claimed, there is a wealth of vaccine skepticism present in the GOP. This action in Tennessee could be a precursor to similar moves in other Republican controlled states at a time where the Delta variant is spreading across the country.

What actions have been taken to prevent adolescents from getting access to vaccines?

If the health department must issue any information about vaccines, staff are instructed to strip the agency logo off the documents,

The health department will also stop all COVID-19 vaccine events on school property ,

, The health department will take steps to ensure it no longer sends postcards or other notices reminding teenagers to get their second dose of the coronavirus vaccines.

What has the reaction been?

The President of the Tennessee Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (TNAAP) Dr. Anna Morad stated on Tuesday that, "Actions that weaken Tennessees overall public health readiness are clearly a step in the wrong direction at the wrong time."

And Dr. Michelle Fiscus, the former head of the Tennessean vaccination program, said many people and lawmakers were buying into anti-vaccine rhetoric and conspiracy theory instead of listening to actual science," and that she was being scapegoated for challenging the lawmakers.

What is the covid-19 situation in Tennessee?

This development is particularly bad in a state which has already been slow in its vaccine rollout. As of July 15, only 38.88% of the population is fully vaccinated.

In terms of cases and deaths, the state has seen 859,116 cases and 12,535 deaths. Tennessee ranks in the top five states with most cases per 100,000 people throughout the pandemic with 12,580 cases per 100,000 people.

Tennessees count of known delta variant cases rose from 27 on June 24 to 125 as of Monday, according to state virus data.
Aerial photo taken on July 13, 2021 shows terraced fields where highland vegetables are cultivated in Anding District of Dingxi, northwest China's Gansu Province. Taking advantage of the cool summer climate in Dingxi, a plateau city in northwest China, local farmers have been encouraged to plant more than 20 varieties of highland vegetables. By successfully selling these vegetables to the country's coastal provinces, the local highland vegetable businesses have proven a key industry that boosts rural income growth. (Xinhua/Ma Xiping)

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[ Editor: WXL ]
People look at cherry blossoms in full bloom at Jing'an Sculpture Park in east China's Shanghai, March 2, 2021. (Xinhua/Wang Xiang)

SHANGHAI, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Shanghai plans to increase the number of parks in the city to more than 1,000 by 2025 from the current level of over 400, the municipal government said at a press conference Wednesday.

The newly built parks will include 50 community-based parks and 200 village parks. A total of 300 pocket parks will also be built or renovated in the city between 2021 and 2025, it said.

The Thousand Parks Plan is one of Shanghai's key moves as it strives to build itself into a city of parks during its 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) period.

"The project aims to enhance the citizens' sense of happiness, sharpen Shanghai's soft power and promote the integration of the city and the parks," said Zhu Xinjun, chief engineer of Shanghai Landscaping and City Appearance Administrative Bureau.

[ Editor: WXL ]
Wang Yang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, attends a meeting organized by the United Front Work Department of the CPC Central Committee in Beijing, capital of China, July 14, 2021. Senior members of non-communist parties and prominent individuals without party affiliation put forward proposals on fostering a new development paradigm in China at the meeting. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Senior members of non-communist parties and prominent individuals without party affiliation put forward proposals on fostering a new development paradigm in China at a meeting attended by top political advisor Wang Yang on Wednesday.

It is of immense significance that members of non-communist parties and people without party affiliation study and offer ideas on how to foster a new development paradigm in China in the first year of the country's 14th five-year development plan (2021-2025), said Wang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference.

Wang encouraged them to have a good understanding of major policies issued by the CPC Central Committee and address difficult and major problems, based on unique advantages of each party and group.

Proposals were put forward about various development topics including the development and opening-up of the country's border regions, integration of the domestic market, and the use of digital technologies in enterprises.

The meeting was organized by the United Front Work Department of the CPC Central Committee.

[ Editor: WXL ]
The Asian community in the US has been in collective trauma following an alarming increase in racial discrimination and hate crimes against them. While the slaying of six Asian women in Atlanta in March was the most tragic of those, racially motivated violence has been happening all the time, taking place in multiple forms and jeopardizing every age group of this community.

A 2019 Pew report showed that about 76% of Asian Americans have personally experienced discrimination or been treated unfairly because of their race or ethnicity. According to statistics from Stop AAPI Hate, nearly 3,000 hate incidents against Asian Americans were reported in March alone, almost doubling that over the previous 11 months. Spiking racism, said respondents, has become their primary stressor during the pandemic rather than the pandemic itself.

However, the current wave of hatred and violence against Asian Americans is far from exceptional. Both the countrys long history of racial oppression and its anti-China propaganda have carried a foreshadowing of the current spike of racism.

Written history of anti-Asian racism

Bigotry against Asian immigrants began as soon as the first generation of Chinese workers set foot on American soil during the California gold rush in the 1850s. In the face of the rising anger among white laborers for the salary competition created by Chinese laborers, the Anti-Coolie Act was passed by the California legislature to impose taxes on Chinese miners in 1862. It was the first law in California to specifically target Chinese people.

Screenshot of the PBS documentary "The Chinese Exclusion Act"

In the following years, hostility and attacks from white settlers mounted continuously until the murdering of 19 Chinese residents by a mob in Los Angeles' Chinatown marked a climax of the anti-Asian fervor in 1871. The massacre was followed by the Page Act of 1875 and the Chinese Exclusion Act in 1882 to successively prohibit the entry of Chinese women and ban the immigration of Chinese laborers. Those restrictions persisted for more than six decades until the Magnuson Act repealed the Chinese Exclusion Act in 1943.

Screenshot of the PBS documentary "Silent Sacrifice"

Racial violence and oppression also victimized other Asian immigrants in the same period. In 1905, the Japanese-Korean Exclusion League was formed in San Francisco to exclude Japanese and Korean immigrants. World War II saw the forced internment of around 120,000 Japanese Americans in concentration camps in the wake of the attack on Pearl Harbor. The Gentlemens Agreement of 1908 further prohibited the entery of Japanese laborers. Similarly, the Tydings-McDuffie Act in 1934 reduced the quota of Filipino immigration to only 50 people per year.

Increasing political invective

While grounded in the long racist history and coupled with multiple social factors, the alarming increase in anti-Asian violence and hate crimes during the pandemic turned out to be more politically driven. In 2020, former US president Donald Trump and several members of his administration repeatedly used racist terms and referred to COVID-19 as China Virus and Kung Flu virus. Similar labels and language were also used by some other American politicians and celebrities to stigmatize China as the culprit of the outbreak.

Screenshot from Donald Trump's address in which he called COVID-19 "the Chinese virus."

Screenshot of former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeos claiming there is evidence the coronavirus came from Chinese lab

Though racist sentiments had been deeply entrenched and accumulating with the governments growing encouragement of white supremacy, Trumps incendiary rhetoric deflecting blame onto the Chinese has directed public resentment to Asian Americans, unleashing a tsunami of hate and violence against Asian Americans nationwide.

Let numbers tell

A poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found 60% of Americans believe that discrimination against Asian Americans has soared in 2021 over the previous year, about 7 in 10 Asian Americans say that discrimination against them has increased.

A research report by the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University, San Bernardino showed that hate crimes targeting Asian Americans increased by 169% in 15 of the Americas largest cities in the first quarter of 2021 over the same period in 2020.

According to an Stop AAPI Hate national report, the organization recorded 6,603 hate incidents against Asian Americans from March 19, 2020 to March 31, 2021. The report found that Chinese individuals have reported more hate incidents, of 43.7%, followed by Koreans (16.6%), Filipinos (8.8%) and Vietnamese (8.3%). For types of discrimination, verbal harassment (65.2%) and shunning (18.1%) make up the majority of the total incidents reported.

A study conducted by the Pew Research Center from April 5 to 11, 2021 found that 45% of Asian respondents say they have experienced at least one of the five specific offensive incidents listed in the report since the start of the coronavirus outbreak. In an open-ended question of the reasons for the rise in violence against Asian Americans, about 20% directly cited former President Donald Trump and his rhetoric about China as the source of the pandemic.

Human rights defender or offender

"If there is anything that can be more callous, more vicious, and more capable of gripping and crushing people's hearts during the pandemic than the COVID-19 virus, hate crimes and xenophobic violence against racial minorities and vulnerable groups are definitely at the top of the list," noted an opinion piece in The Diplomat magazine.

Even though Trump is no longer in office, stigmatizing China and politicizing COVID-19 remain the framework and blueprint of the current US government in its confrontation with China. While the tactic did seem to drive it closer to the goal of diverting attention from its incompetent pandemic containment while tarnishing Chinas reputation, the backlash is hurting one of its most vulnerable and marginal groups. Asian Americans, in addition to the fear of and stress from the raging pandemic, are meanwhile subject to the wrath from its own countrymen for things they are not responsible for.

As the instigator rejected any responsibility, neither have victims of the xenophobic violence received formal apology or seen their safety fully guaranteed yet. Perhaps it is time for America and the rest of the world to reflect on how the professed defender of human rights impairs the right to life of its own citizens, antagonizes other countries at the cost of scapegoating its own people, and advocates equality while encouraging racial injustice in its own country.

[ Editor: GSY ]
Foreword

Through the continuous endeavors of the whole Communist Party and the people of all nationalities, the dream of a well-to-do life that the Chinese people have kept pursuing for thousands of years has come true!

"We have realized the first Centenary Goal and a well-off society has been built on the Chinese land," Chinese President Xi Jinping stately declared at the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China on July 1.

Nowadays, from the south to the north, from the urban to the rural areas, stories about shaking off poverty are being told everywhere on the vast Chinese land. Being well-off means being well-fed, well-clothed, and living in peace, means medical and old-age care, and means physical, mental, and spiritual enrichment. It is also the sense of gain, happiness, and safety.

The special column "My Farewell to Poverty" is opened to provide a platform for people from various fields in several regions to tell their own stories.

Today I feed the silkworms, tomorrow they will bring me wealth  this is my way to prosperity.

If you don't believe it, have a look: my house, furniture, appliances, and deposits, are all "spitted out" by the silkworms!

My family has once kept silkworms in the 1990s. It was unexcepted that half was dead. I had no choice but to work a casual job in Guangdong, which was a way to raise a family but not enough to get rich.

These years, the government has introduced precision poverty alleviation policies to encourage people to raise silkworms. I wondered: I have tried it before, but why did I fail?

I went back home with the idea of giving it a try to continue my former career. I was upset in the beginning not knowing why I earned a few thousand yuan while the other families earned tens of thousands in a year.

The poverty alleviation staff investigated and told me that it was due to my backward techniques.

I was introduced to a sericulture cooperative in Nanning to be an apprentice. I firstly imitated the way they made beds for silkworms with bamboo weaving and disinfected with lime. Gradually, I found the way.

"The little silkworms are weak and should be managed meticulously. By the critical period of silkworm growth, special attention is needed to prevent disease," I cannot forget the words of the technician.

People always say that technology is the best tool to increase harvest, which I believe. This thing largely increased the survival rate of the silkworms: my income has been increased by more than  60,000 by sericulture. In 2017, I stepped up my efforts to expand the scale and earned more than  80,0000.

Since that, my business has been getting better every year.

To help others get rid of poverty, I established a sericultural training base to share my expertise with other villagers. Last year, I took the lead in establishing a farmer's specialized cooperative of edible mushroom cultivation. The cultivated mushrooms received very good responses as soon as they were on the market.

The intellectuals have a saying when talking about the current situation of the Zhongshan village:

The silkworms are busy spitting silk, making the farmland full of fragrance. The cars are running all over the village, and every family is living in fine buildings. Everyone works hard, and every family is on the way to a well-off life.

The article is contributed by Zhou Shixing, translated by Fei Jinglun.

Find the original piece at https://epaper.gmw.cn/gmrb/html/2021-07/08/nw.D110000gmrb_20210708_5-01.htm

[ Editor: WXY ]
Talking about our Xiaogang village, everybody knows it is the origin of the all-round contract system.

At the moment when villagers pressed their fingerprints on the agreement for conducting this pioneering system, everyone was unconvinced: why the food is not enough although we have worked so hard with all available farmlands, oxen, and farm tools?

After adopting the all-round contract system, were able to produce grains enough for five years with one years work. I felt so satisfied at that time.

Things were getting better every day thanks to the policies of the Communist Party of China.

The first agritainment "Jinchang Shifu" in Xiaogang village was opened by my fourth son and me in 2008. When President Xi Jinping inspected the village in 2016, the turnover had reached 70,000 to 80,000 yuan. After that, there have been more visitors to the village and the annual income could be more than 200,000.

"Agritainment is to make the farmers happy," as Xi said, has finally come true.

Village cadres are made a good point in saying that larger scale of agriculture could bring more benefits. In 2017, I sold 7 mu of land for  800 per mu, which turned me into an investor from a farmer. At the end of the year, every person in the village received  350 in dividend. By this year, the dividend has risen to  600.

Today, the villagers have no difficulties with food and clothing, and people have their own nice buildings and cars, which used to be unimaginable.

A better life can better grasp people's hearts. I have four children, all of whom worked away from home some years ago. In recent years, everyone has come back home. It is good to see everyone live together. This village's development in the future depends on the youngsters.

My two grandchildren who graduated from college are also back. The guide that you saw in the memorial hall of the all-round contract system is my granddaughter, Yan Mei. Before July 1, she went to a speech competition and asked me what to speak about. I told her to just narrate the development of our Xiaogang village in recent years.

In fact, I always tell tourists about the all-round contract system, agritainment and the changes of the village. The more I narrate, the more I feel in my heart: our village is connected to Zhongnanhai, and our life will be better under the Partys leadership.

The article is contributed by Chang He, translated by Fei Jinglun.

Find the original piece at https://epaper.gmw.cn/gmrb/html/2021-07/09/nw.D110000gmrb_20210709_7-01.htm

[ Editor: WXY ]
The adoption by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine of several important laws, in particular on the role of international experts when selecting members of the High Council of Justice and the High Qualification Commission of Judges, is a positive signal, but progress is also needed in other sectors, Spokesman of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Gerry Rice has stated.

More progress is needed in other sectors ... Discussions with the authorities will continue, he said at a traditional briefing of the fund, asked about Ukraine's chances of receiving the second tranche under the Stand-By Arrangement.

Commenting on the recent visit of a Ukrainian delegation led by Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko to Washington, Rice called the meetings very constructive.

According to him, the issues of management in the National Bank of Ukraine, banking supervision and withdrawal of banks from the market, fiscal deficit, restoration and strengthening of the anti-corruption system were discussed.
Ukraine and Hungary intend to sign an agreement on mutual recognition of education-confirming documents and academic degrees in the near future, Deputy Head of the President's Office Ihor Zhovkva said following working consultations with diplomatic adviser to the Prime Minister of Hungary Janos Balla.

"The disposition to search for a mutually acceptable solution to sensitive issues of education and national minorities opens up a window of opportunity for us to transfer these issues from the political to the expert level and normalize bilateral Ukrainian-Hungarian relations," the presidential press service said, citing Zhovkva.

The interlocutors also positively assessed regular bilateral contacts between representatives of the authorities of Ukraine and Hungary and the continuation of activities of corresponding subgroups of the interdepartmental working group on education.
A positive decision to open the EU border for Ukraine after the imposed quarantine restrictions is a matter of several days, Vice-President of the European Commission for Interinstitutional Relations and Foresight Maros Sefcovic has said.

"I know that if it comes to the infections, your numbers look very promising. So I believe that it is a matter of days where we can expect the positive decision. As you understand everybody here is very careful because we see how the situation is volatile. But everything points to the positive decision concerning opening the borders for Ukraine and respecting your COVID certificates," Sefcovic said in an interview with Interfax-Ukraine.

He said that the Ukrainian COVID certificate looks the same as the European one.

"I have to say that yesterday me and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal spent a lot of time together 'playing' with our smart phones and I was quite impressed with what he has in the smart phone: COVID certificate which is exactly the same as I have. On the top of it he has the birth certificate, a driving license, residence permit and all the documents which we are now recommending to our Member States to do exactly the same to put it into as we call it electronic wallet for the documents. I saw it myself. I am not technical expert but I think that it looks exactly the same as it looks in my phone," Sefcovic said.

In addition, the Vice-President of the European Commission said that the European Medical Agency has certified vaccines such as Pfizer, Moderna and European AstraZeneca.

"We never got the full documentation for Sputnik, so that's not completed and the other producers did not ask. That probably is one of the things which still have to be discussed by the experts," he said, answering a question about what vaccines from those recognized in Ukraine will be recognized by the EU.
The lawyers for Ukrainian MP from the Opposition Platform - For Life faction Viktor Medvedchuk have appealed the court's decision to prolong his house arrest until September 7.

"Medvedchuk's lawyers have filed an appeal against the extension of his house arrest. Can the appellate court judges make a lawful and fair decision? It will be an interesting process," parliamentarian Renat Kuzmin of the Opposition Platform - For Life faction said on Facebook on Thursday.

According to earlier reports, Kyiv's Pechersky District Court on July 9 extended Medvedchuk's house arrest until September 7.

Parliamentarians Medvedchuk and Taras Kozak of the Opposition Platform - For Life faction were notified on May 11 that they are suspected of high treason and attempting to misappropriate national resources in Crimea. According to Prosecutor General Iryna Venediktova, the suspicion against them is based on three episodes of illegal activity and cooperation with "the aggressor country."

According to investigators, Medvedchuk conspired with an official of the Russian government to extract minerals on the Black Sea shelf in 2015. Another episode of the criminal proceedings concerns the transfer of information containing state secrets to the Russian security services. The third episode of illegal activity relates to anti-Ukrainian subversive activities, in particular, devising the "anti-Ukrainian" Luch project.

On May 12, Medvedchuk arrived at the Prosecutor General's Office, read a copy of the note of suspicion presented to him, and said that he did not intend to hide from the investigation and that the suspicions are politically motivated.

Kozak, according to law enforcement agencies, is in Russia. At the same time, according to Medvedchuk, Kozak is in the territory of Belarus. Kozak has been placed on the wanted list. There is a court decision on his detention to select a restrictive measure for him.

The court originally placed Medvedchuk under house arrest until July 9, 2021.
The European Union welcomes the adoption by Ukraine of legislation aimed at comprehensive reform of the judicial system.

"The European Union welcomes that Ukraine took a decisive step this week towards comprehensive reform of the judiciary aiming at restoring the public and investors' trust in the justice system," a statement by the Spokesperson of the European External Action Service (EEAS) made public in Brussels on Thursday reads.

The statement says that in the last few days, the Ukrainian Parliament adopted two crucial pieces of legislation that foresee a transparent re-establishment of the High Qualification Commission of Judges and an integrity assessment of the current and future members of the High Council of Justice  "two key judicial governance bodies in Ukraine."

"In both of these reforms, international experts will have a temporary but decisive role in line with the recommendations of the Venice Commission. The European Union has decisively supported the preparation of these reform laws and will provide all the necessary assistance to ensure their successful implementation," the statement reads.

In this regard, the representative of the EU diplomatic service expressed confidence that "it will not only allow renewal of the judicial system, strengthening the rule of law and better protection of fundamental rights in Ukraine, but will also reinforce the strategic, multi-dimensional partnership between the EU and Ukraine."
An exclusive interview with Vice-President of European Commission for Interinstitutional Relations and Foresight Maros Sefcovic for the Interfax-Ukraine News Agency

Text: Nataliia Pushkaruk, Dmytro Koshovyy

- During your visit the Memorandum of Understanding on the strategic partnership between the European Union and Ukraine on raw materials and batteries was signed. Mr. Sefcovic, please, explain us how exactly our cooperation in this area will be intensified due to this document?

- It is very important to put it into the context because the EU is now really a number one if it comes to electromobility. Last year Europe had the highest number of electric vehicles sold in the world, despite of the COVID pandemic. Electric vehicles represented 10.5% of new cars sold in 2020. Sales of electric vehicles reached 14% in the first quarter of 2021 . I am confident that this trend will continue.

On Wednesday, the Commission will adopt the Fit for 55 package comprising of 12 legislative proposals allowing Europe to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions by -55% already by 2030. It would be another important push for electromobility in Europe. This is translating also in huge efforts of the industry on the ground in the EU where we have currently ca. 70 major industrial projects developed along the entire value chains.. 15 of them are the future battery cells gigafactories and we expect that by 2025 we will produce batteries for 6 to 8 million vehicles per year. For experts, this means ca. 450 gigawatt hours of manufacturing capacity per year. That led to the huge interest from the European and foreign investors. The level of investments in the sector reached more than 120 billion Euros in 2019 and 2020 alone, i.e.s ca. 3 times more than in China.

So there is a huge dynamic. We are your neighbor. Of course, you are our associated partner and therefore I think that Ukraine should be a part of that effort, part of that success. That was the reason why we want to accelerate the cooperation in the area of raw materials and batteries.

Ukraine is a country of great potential. You have all the minerals. You have 117 of 120 minerals which are commonly used. From the European list of 30 critical raw materials you have 21. All critical sectors of the economy are dependent on a secure supply of raw materials, including digital technologies, , wind mills, photovoltaics, hydrogen, aerospace, drones, - for all that you need these very specific raw materials. Therefore, this Memorandum of Understanding is so important, because we can both look for what would be the best solution for Ukraine and for the EU. What it would mean in practice first and foremost for Ukraine - to get the raw materials from the soil. It would also be extremely advantageous to exact and process these materials in a sustainable and socially responsible way, meaning with the lowest carbon footprint, and ethic credentials. There is a commitment to restore the nature into initial stage before extraction. Also, that labor laws are of course compatible with how we are treating workers in Europe which I have no doubt will be the case. Because this is very important for the subsequent use of the raw materials in the vehicles. People do not want to have the electric vehicles where somebody would say: 'Ok. You are clean now but your battery has very high carbon footprint' or 'The raw materials have been source in the way you destroyed the nature' or 'There have been employed the child labor' or something like that.

That is why we put so much emphasis that on the first phase we will be working very closely with our Ukrainian friends on approximation of policies and regulatory mining frameworks so all these important environmentalal and social aspects can be addressed. Therefore, as we did today we invite not only the representatives of Ukrainian government (in your case Ministry of Ecology is the first Ukrainian member in both European Battery Alliance and European Raw Materials Alliance) but also as many companies as possible so there could be the networking, mutual exposure to the possible business interest, so we can see concrete projects for which we can then look for business interest or financial support through the European Investment Bank (EIB), European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) or other investors.. To conclude, the first is approximation of policies and laws. The second - better networking through these both alliances. And the third - it is important to work jointly on how to make sure that Ukrainian companies with the European partners can bid for financing of research & innovation projects under Horizon Europe which is the biggest publicly supported research fund with a total budget of almost 100 billion Euros for the next seven years, of which 925 million Euros for batteries alone. I would say these are three key parameters.

Let me also note that we have recently signed a similar agreement with Canada.

- Can you please give us some examples of these raw materials?

- I think that if it comes to these critical raw materials what we discuss most often is lithium. According to our foresight study, European battery industry would need 18 times more lithium already by 2030 and 60 times more by 2050. With this huge demand comes a huge opportunity for Ukraine not only for extracting lithium but also for refining lithium notably due to the unavailability of the refining capacity in Europe.

There will also be an increasing demand for cobalt. Currently, Europe imports close to 70% of cobalt from Congo and other places far away. And again Ukraine has deposits of cobalt.

Then, rare earth. Europe imports 98%-99% of rare earths from China, while some of its demand could be covered by supplies from Ukraine. We need rare earths for batteries, for magnets used in wind turbines, etc.

- It is a big dream for Ukraine to become a new China for Europe. Do we really have a chance for this?

- I think you can do better than China.

I understand the President, the Prime Minister and your business leaders who want to ensure that Ukraine builds an entire vertically integrated value chain around critical raw materials and that as much value added as possible remains in Ukraine... Ukraine clearly could be the key supplier of raw materials and components for these future technologies for Europe.

- Yesterday we visited Irshansk ore mining and processing plant. Is there a interest for European company to take part in privatization of this company on the 31 of August?

- That is to be seen. More generally, I think it would be good if your ministries and industrial actors become members of the European industrial alliances to allow for networking and matchmaking between your industrial projects and European companies and investors via the business investment platforms. All the biggest companies in Europe are members of these alliances. Information about interesting projects and auctions in Ukraine could be distributed via the Alliances . That I hope will be the practical consequence of having Ukraine in both alliances..

- How do you assess efforts of Ukraine in green transition? What perspectives does cooperation on climate change, environmental protection and decarbonisation of energy and mobility systems open for our country and for EU-Ukraine relations?

- I can totally associate and relate to Ukraine because I am your neighbor, I am from Slovakia. So I know that industrial transformation and the green and digital transitions are complex. And on the top it you have huge tension at your Eastern border. So I appreciate your efforts in this area.

At the Climate change conference in Glasgow (COP 26) the whole world, every country will be. What we believe is necessary - revising the climate goals upwards. So I understand that Ukraine is also considering to increase the ambition from minus 40% to more ambitious target.. I understand that also there are clear intentions to cut energy generated from coal and increase to 20% energy produced by renewable energy sources. These are all very important goals.

I was highlighting that I believe Ukraine has a huge potential in transport because technology exists. Of course what you need is charging stations what we called in our 'Brussels English' an alternative fuel infrastructure to charge electric vehicles or to have in the future hydrogen fuel stations - maybe for trucks. In Germany and some other countries they are already using hydrogen locomotives for trains and more and more hydrogen is considered as a fuel for maritime or ship transportations. That is one area where I think that Ukraine can do even more because you are a big country and you have a very important transport center.

- What is the risk for Ukraine from Carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM)?

- The College of Commissioners will adopt proposals of 12 laws forming the so-called Fit for 55 package, including the CBAM. CBAM, our climate instrument, will apply to sectors with high emissions and at risk of carbon leakage, such as iron, steel, fertilizers, cement and electricity. The idea there is to motivate our trade partners to effectively address the GHG emissions by ensuring that carbon has its price.

By putting the price on carbon, we are incentivizing the industry to look for the new clean and less energy intensive technologies And consequently fight climate change and preserve our environment and biodiversity. We encourage Ukraine to develop its emissions scheme and would be ready to share our experience and know-how gained under our Emissions Trading System (ETS).

- Ukraine has carbon tax only 30 cents for one ton. Ukrainian government proposed 1 Euro for 1 ton. To your mind, is it enough?

- In the EU we use a market mechanism where the price is governed by supply and demand. The current price is 55 Euros per ton of CO2.

High carbon price creates an incentive for our industry to use clean technologies, and implement energy efficiency measures and so on and so forth. We recognize and appreciate that the point of departure for Ukraine is different than for EU Member States . Nobody expects Ukraine to reach this price level now. Ukraine, should however consider adopting a roadmap that would guide its efforts to establish its effective ETS system with the right carbon price.

- What are the expectations of the EU in the context of reforms in Ukraine, in particular judiciary reform, fight with corruption? How much further help of the EU, European perspective of Ukraine depends on the progress of our country in these spheres?

- Ukraine's achievements over the last three decades have been very impressive especially because of the very difficult geopolitical environment you are living in. You had lots of challenges, you had invasion, annexation of your territory. As you know, the EU has always been at your side. If you look at the macro-financial assistance for 16 billion Euros - I think it's by far the biggest assistance Ukraine has received. And we are ready to continue with these efforts. If you look at what you have accomplished over the last years it is quite clear that you have made an important progress in reforming media areas, public administration, anticorruption, macroeconomic stabilization. Now it is very important to continue this reform to strengthen further the rule of law. That is very intense discussion we also have in the EU and our Member States. Now we are issuing rule of law reports every year where we are assessing how the rule of law is respected in all our M.ember States. So it is not something specific for Ukraine, it is a really important task because it is about the performance of the state, it is about common values, it is about what is the atmosphere in the society. Also, it is very important to see the determination of Ukraine's leadership to reform the judicial system in line with recommendation of the Venice Commission.

We also welcome President Zelenskyi's commitment to tackle oligarchs' interest and influence in Ukrainian political and economic life. All these steps, which I mentioned, will really contribute to make Ukraine stronger, more resilient. Also, it would bring other support through macro-financial assistance. 600 million Euros were disbursed last December and I think once all these steps which I mentioned will be accomplished, the second tranche would come immediately after that.

- What are your expectations, when the border of the EU will be open for Ukrainians again? And what are the perspectives of mutual recognition by the EU and Ukraine vaccination certificates?

- I have to say that yesterday me and Prime-Minister Denys Shmygal spent a lot of time together 'playing' with our smart phones and I was quite impressed with what he has in the smart phone: COVID certificate which is exactly the same as I have. On the top of it he has the birth certificate, a driving license, residence permit and all the documents which we are now recommending to our Member States to do exactly the same to put it into as we call it electronic wallet for the documents. I saw it myself. I am not technical expert but I think that it looks exactly the same as it looks in my phone.

Also, I know that if it comes to the infections your numbers look very promising. So I believe that it is a matter of days where we can expect the positive decision. As you understand everybody here is very careful because we see how the situation is volatile. But everything points to the positive decision concerning opening the borders for Ukraine and respecting your COVID certificates.

- And how about the vaccines. What vaccines from those recognised in Ukraine will be recognized by the EU?

- The European Medical Agency certified Pfizer, Moderna and European Astra Zeneca. We never got the full documentation for Sputnik, so that's not completed and the other producers did not ask. That probably is one of the things which still have to be discussed by the experts.

But as I said it looks quite positive. So let's keep fingers crossed that the situation will not deteriorate in Ukraine or in my country, your neighbors in Europe and that we can hopefully start travelling more normally as in the past.
MI5 Director General Ken McCallum is photographed in London, Britain (Photo : UK Government/Handout via REUTERS)

Britain's top domestic spymaster cautioned the population on Wednesday to treat the threat of spying from Russia and China as vigilantly as terrorism, warning that foreign agents were seeking to steal technology, sow discord and attack infrastructure.



Following are the key threats as seen by Security Service (MI5) Director General Ken McCallum:



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RUSSIA, CHINA, IRAN



- Their agents are ready to kill on British soil, and kidnap or lure dissidents back home.



- They carry out cyberattacks.



- Their spies steal research and undermine companies.



- Their spies seek malign influence by targetting ordinary British citizens and spread misinformation.



- 1911 Official Secrets Act needs to be updated: "It is not currently illegal to be in a key position of influence in the UK and be secretly in the pay of a foreign state."



TERRORISM



- The internet: "If you wanted me to pick the one theatre that shapes the UK terrorist threat more than any other, I would actually pick the internet."



- Extreme Islamist - still MI5's biggest job is tackling it. Very substantial resources are focused on Syria.



"Please do not anyone imagine Syria is somehow sorted or has gone away as a potential source of terrorist threat to our country."



Re-emerging threats in Somalia.



Afghanistan: "As NATO and U.S. forces now withdraw, terrorists will seek to take advantage of opportunities - including propaganda opportunities - to rebuild."



- Northern Ireland: in March and April there was the worst public disorder for several years.



"I can't say current strains are all about the Protocol - they're not. And neither can I say current strains have nothing to do with the Protocol - that wouldn't be true either."



"Many of the powerful aspirations of the Belfast Agreement remain unfulfilled; and the legacy of the past still casts a long shadow."



- Far right: about 1/5 of counter-terrorist investigations. High prevalence of teenagers - some as young as 13.



ENCRYPTION - TECH COMPANIES



WhatsApp CEO Will Cathcart says security agencies want Orwellian access. MI5 says that is not correct.



"End-to-end encryption done in the way Facebook is currently proposing, will hand a gift to terrorists M15 has to find and tackle - and a gift to child abusers."



"The public needs the tech companies to find solutions which both maintain users' privacy and support everyone's safety. That means lawful access, on an exceptional warranted basis."


U.S. charges four with plot to kidnap New York journalist critical of Iran

Masih Alinejad, 37, Iranian journalist, poses for a portrait in London (Photo : REUTERS/Toby Melville)

U.S. prosecutors have charged four Iranians, alleged to be intelligence operatives for Tehran, with plotting to kidnap a New York journalist and human rights activist who was critical of Iran, according to a Justice Department indictment unsealed on Tuesday.



In recent years, Iranian intelligence officers have tricked a number of overseas activists to travel to destinations where they were kidnapped and sent back to Iran, U.S. authorities said.



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While the indictment did not name the target of the plot, Reuters has confirmed she is Iranian-American journalist Masih Alinejad, who has contributed to the U.S. government-funded Voice of America Persian language service and reports on human rights issues in Iran.



Asked by Reuters to confirm that Alinejad was the target of the plot, the Department of Justice declined to comment.



But Alinejad, reached by phone by Reuters after the indictment was released, said she was in a state of shock. She said she had been working with the Federal Bureau of Investigation since the agency approached her eight months ago with photographs taken by the plotters.



"They showed me the Islamic Republic had gotten very close," she said.



The four Iranians hired private investigators under false pretenses to surveil the journalist in Brooklyn, videotaping her family and home as part of a plot to kidnap her, according to prosecutors.



The four defendants planned "to forcibly take their intended victim to Iran, where the victim's fate would have been uncertain at best," Audrey Strauss, the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, said.



The Iranian operatives hired private investigators in Manhattan to surveil Alinejad and her family, claiming that she was a missing person from Dubai who had fled the country to avoid paying a debt, prosecutors said



Prosecutors said the Iranian operatives had researched how they might spirit the journalist out of New York on a high-speed boat headed for Caracas.



Iran directed the operation against the journalist with "the intention to lure our citizen back to Iran as retaliation for their freedom of expression," said Assistant Director Alan E. Kohler Jr. of the FBI's Counterintelligence Division.



In 2019, Iranian intelligence officers lured Ruhollah Zam, a journalist living in France, out of the country, capturing and later executing him in Iran on sedition charges, prosecutors said.



Representatives for the Mission of Iran to the U.N. could not be reached for comment.



Alinejad said she had drawn the ire of Iran by publicizing women in Iran protesting laws requiring head coverings, as well as accounts of Iranians killed in demonstrations in 2019.



Alinejad said Iranian operatives had tried multiple times to lure her to Turkey with threats and promises to meet family, she said.



FBI agents warned Alinejad earlier this year that Iran was planning to kidnap her, moving the journalist and her husband to a series of safe houses as they investigated the case.



She said she was still reeling from reading the indictment.



"I can't believe I'm not even safe in America," she said.


A shopper uses the mobile payment service Apple Pay at a supermarket, amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, in Ronda, (Photo : REUTERS/Jon Nazca)

Apple Inc is working on a service to let shoppers pay for purchases in instalments, Bloomberg reported, a move that could help the iPhone maker tap into the thriving "buy now, pay later" sector.



The U.S. tech giant will use Goldman Sachs Group Inc, its partner since 2019 for the Apple Card credit card, as the lender for the loans made through Apple Pay, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter.



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The service will allow Apple Pay users to pay for their purchases through four interest-free payments made every two weeks or across several months with interest, according to the report.



Apple shares opened 2% higher to hit a record high of $148.48 on Wednesday.



In the United States, Australia and Europe, BNPL is marketed as an alternative to credit cards. The service has soared in popularity during the pandemic as consumers seek other options to make purchases that are easier on their wallets.



However, the prospect of going up against a behemoth like Apple, as well as other entrants including PayPal, is likely to test Australian pure-play BNPL firms that have so far gone unchallenged in a fertile U.S. market.



Shares of Australia-listed Afterpay, the country's biggest BNPL provider which derives a big chunk of its revenue from the United States, dived nearly 10% on Wednesday. Smaller rivals Zip Co Ltd and Sezzle fell sharply.



In the United States, however, shares of Paypal and Affirm recouped some of their losses from Tuesday's fall as some analysts said the concerns might be exaggerated.



"We believe the concerns over the competitive impact of added BNPL offering by Apple are overblown," Wedbush Securities analyst Moshe Katri said.



"All these Centre companies, including PayPal, Affirm already built ecosystem offering products and services around the merchants they serve. BNPL is just another product or service offered to merchants as a natural extension of Apple's ecosystem."



In contrast, Citi analysts said in a client note that Apple Pay was a bigger threat than potential offerings from banks or credit companies given its wide reach and superior consumer experience on a mobile website or in-store.



In Australia, where the regulation of the fast-growing sector is light and adoption is higher compared to other markets, nearly 30% of the consumers in the country have a BNPL account, according to a Deloitte report.



The sector's fast-paced growth attracted Swedish firm Klarna, which has emerged as a major rival in Australia, and caught the attention of mainstream U.S. companies.



U.S. payments giant PayPal launched its service in Australia on Wednesday and raised the ante by saying it would do away with late fees, an area that had earned Afterpay close to A$70 million ($52.23 million) in fiscal 2020.



A Goldman Sachs spokesperson declined to comment, while Apple was not available for comment.



Afterpay said competition reinforces the significance of the sector and that each BNPL player operates a different model and generate revenue in different ways.



A Zip spokesman said Apple's reported move validated the company's business where it was growing customer numbers despite increased competition.



($1 = 1.3401 Australian dollars)


An Amtrak Acela Express train departs South Station in Boston, Massachusetts (Photo : REUTERS/Brian Snyder/File Photo)

A U.S. government commission on Wednesday proposed a $117 billion plan to remake the Northeast Corridor - the Boston-to-Washington train route that is the nation's busiest - by 2035, potentially cutting travel times and boosting capacity.



The route, which runs through major Northeastern cities including New York and Philadelphia, carried about 800,000 passengers a day before the COVID-19 pandemic, the Northeast Corridor Commission said in a statement.



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Advocates argue the plan can help take more private cars off clogged American roads and eliminate some airplane trips, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.



The commission - comprised of state, federal and Amtrak national passenger rail officials - said it had only identified $17 billion of the funding needed. It said the $100 billion in unmet costs would be shared between the federal government and states the route runs through.



The panel, created by Congress, said Northeastern state governments, the federal government, eight commuter rail agencies, and Amtrak worked "to develop a detailed and efficient sequencing of infrastructure investments covering 150 projects."



The improvements would include repairs or upgrades to rail track, tunnels, bridges and stations and allow for a big jump in train service.



Much of the infrastructure along the heavily used corridor is aging and needs replacement. The crucial 111-year-old Hudson Tunnel, also known as the North River Tunnel, connecting New York and New Jersey, was damaged in 2012 during Superstorm Sandy.



By 2035, the proposed work would cut nearly half an hour from an average trip of nearly three hours on high-speed Acela trains from Washington to New York and from a little over 3-1/2 hours from New York to Boston. Amtrak also runs slower Northeast Regional trains along the corridor with lower-cost tickets.



The upgrades along the 457-mile (735-km) Northeast Corridor would allow trains to travel at 160 miles per hour (258 km) on 132 miles, up from the current 32 route miles (52 km) that can travel at 150 mph (240 kph).



The plan "supports new travel patterns as our economy returns to full strength," said Amit Bose, deputy administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration and commission co-chair.



President Joe Biden - once dubbed "Amtrak Joe" for his custom of commuting from his home state of Delaware to Washington by train - has called for $80 billion in new spending on high-speed rail projects across the United States.



A bipartisan infrastructure deal being considered by Congress calls for $66 billion for passenger and freight rail to repair and expand existing rail networks, including the corridor.



Amtrak in April asked for $31 billion from Congress over five years to overhaul the Northeast Corridor.



Amtrak wants to expand across the country and by 2035 add as many as 39 new corridor routes and 166 cities.


U.S. investigators are studying the backgrounds of Colombian mercenaries accused of assassinating Haiti's president last week to see if any of them had past ties to U.S. government agencies, a U.S. source familiar with the investigation said.



Seventeen Colombians and two Haitian-Americans were arrested last week by Haitian authorities and accused of shooting President Jovenel Moise dead in his home, an event that further destabilized the poor Caribbean nation.



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The source said that so far U.S. investigators have not found hard evidence of any connections between the Colombian suspects, who include former members of the Colombian military, and the U.S. government. But they believe some evidence of links are likely to turn up.



One of the two Haitian-American men arrested and accused of taking part in the assassination was a former informant for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the DEA said on Monday. Two U.S. government sources identified him as Joseph Vincent, 55, of Florida.



Vincent and the other Haitian-American man accused of joining the assassination, James Solages, 35, told a source they acted as interpreters.



Meanwhile, court documents and a defense lawyer said that a Haitian living in Florida who Haitian investigators want to talk to about Moise's murder cooperated with the DEA in a large-scale drug trafficking investigation.



Rodolphe Jaar, who was jailed by U.S. federal authorities in 2015 for his alleged role in a conspiracy to smuggle cocaine via Haiti, is the subject of a wanted poster which Haitian police issued related to the assassination.



Documents filed in Federal court in Miami, Florida, allege that Jaar "conspired to have a portion of a 420 kilogram cocaine load that arrived in Haiti," from Colombia or Venezuela in February 2012 and was ultimately headed for the United States set aside "for his personal gain/interest."



At a sentencing hearing in 2014, a federal prosecutor told the court that Jaar "was cooperating with the DEA at the time of the offense, making them aware of a drug shipment that was coming into Haiti", and that "because of his efforts" the DEA was able to seize more than half of the drugs and make an arrest. Prosecutors recommended a reduced prison sentence for Jaar due to his cooperation.



A third Haitian-American, Christian Emmanuel Sanon, was arrested on Sunday by Haitian authorities, who accused him of being a mastermind of the attack.


Chantel Springer walks with her son Jasiah in the Brooklyn borough of New York, U.S., (Photo : REUTERS/Brendan McDermid/File Photo)

A Brooklyn Starbucks supervisor who aspires to be a doctor will pay the rent and build savings for her son. Across the country, a San Francisco area mother who attends college is getting back to class herself now that she can more easily afford after-school care for her youngest child.



Those are some of the ways about 39 million U.S. households could benefit from monthly federal checks started Thursday as part of a massive expansion of the child tax credit. The Center on Poverty and Social Policy at Columbia University estimates that the expansion can lift 5 million children out of poverty and reduce the U.S. child poverty rate by up to 45%.



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The approach is notable both for its wide reach - the checks issued this week will reach nearly 90% of U.S. children, according to Internal Revenue Service estimates - and for distributing half the money monthly instead of in one lump at tax time.



"It's really giving families the help that they need in the moment to help meet some of their basic needs," said Mario Cardona, chief of policy and practice for Child Care Aware of America, an advocacy group.



The program, which is not limited to low-income families, is being likened to a universal basic income for children. Single parents earning up to $75,000 and couples making up to $150,000 can receive the full credit.



Under changes made by the American Rescue Plan passed in March, families will receive up to $3,600 for every child under age 6 and $3,000 for those ages 6 to 17, up from $2,000 per child. A minimum income requirement was removed and the credit was made fully refundable, making it more accessible to parents who don't work and those with low tax bills.



Critics say the expanded credit is expensive and may discourage people from working. But supporters say the funds may enable more parents to work by potentially helping them pay for child care.



The $105 billion expansion expires at the end of this year. President Joe Biden and other Democrats are pushing to extend it.



"It's probably the most profound measure on behalf of children in our country," said Rep. Jackie Speier, co-chair of the Democratic Women's Caucus. "It is a Social Security for children."



PARENTS USE THE MONEY AS THEY SEE FIT



Chantel Springer, 25, will use the $300 she will receive from the tax credit this month to help pay the rent on the Brooklyn apartment she shares with her mother and three-year-old son. Starting next month, Springer, a Starbucks shift supervisor who is studying biochemistry and wants to be a doctor, plans to stash the money in a savings account for her son.



Jess Hudson's two children, ages 10 and 14, are going back to in-person schooling in the fall. She will also return to campus to finish earning her bachelor's degree in political science.



The $500 she will receive monthly this year will cover most of the $585 monthly cost of after school care for her 10-year-old son. "Being able to have that money now so that we can step back into the economy, we can step back into work and school, I can't even overstate how important that is," said Hudson, 36, who wants to work in public policy after she graduates in December and eventually go to law school.



Michelle Rodriguez, 39, turned to credit cards to help cover the added grocery bills and internet costs she faced after her three sons, ages 5, 6 and 7, switched to virtual school in their San Diego home.



The $750 she will receive monthly this year from the child tax credit will let her start paying off some of that debt now instead of waiting until next tax season, said Rodriguez, who works with families fleeing domestic violence.



It will also provide some relief during a time that is usually financially tight. The savings she receives from her annual tax refund typically run out by the fall.



"I can breathe a little bit more," she said.



DISTRIBUTION OBSTACLES



Families that do not file taxes or who have not received pandemic relief checks from the IRS may need to sign up to receive the cash, raising some concerns that the program may not easily reach families in need.



A senior Biden administration official told reporters on Wednesday that only about 35 million families would receive the July payment because some families had not yet registered. But the administration expects to achieve the IRS estimate of reaching 39 million families soon.



Some parents are nervous that receiving a portion of their tax credit may throw off their budgeting next year.



Annie Watson, a 33-year-old early childhood education consultant in Kansas City, is saving the advanced $1,100 payments she and her husband will receive for their four children, ages one, five, seven and 11.



The couple typically owes taxes each year and she estimates they may break even after receiving the expanded tax credits - meaning they may need all or part of the cash they're receiving now to pay their tax bill next year.



Administration officials said they are working with nonprofits and grassroots organizations to conduct outreach and raise awareness about the program. Families can opt out of receiving the advance payments by filling out a form online with the IRS.



Watson added she is grateful to have the cash on hand in case emergencies come up, especially since it seems likely her husband may need to leave his job at a bakery later this year when she returns to traveling for work.


A tanker truck transporting fuel is pictured along the streets en route to a gas station, in Mexico City, Mexico (Photo : REUTERS/Henry Romero/File Photo)

The commercial arm of Mexican state oil company Petroleos Mexicanos (Pemex) has temporarily banned new business with Trafigura AG, according to a document and a source, as investigations into the energy trader's conduct in several countries deepen.



The world's largest independent commodity traders https://www.reuters.com/article/us-oil-corruption-traders-factbox-idUKKBN28E2RJ are facing scrutiny globally for alleged corruption after years of investigations into bribes of public officials in several countries in Latin America.



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Pemex and other state oil companies have become wary of doing business with merchants, which include Trafigura and rival Vitol.



Earlier this month, PMI Comercio International suspended new deals with Trafigura and its subsidiaries until further notice, according to company communication seen by Reuters. The document did not state a reason for the ban.



Mexico is the world's fourth-largest importer of refined oil products and a prominent buyer of natural gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG). Many foreign trading houses and oil companies buy Mexican crude from Pemex and also supply refined products or LNG for Mexican state companies.



Employees at PMI, which is in charge of Pemex's fuel imports, were told to honor existing agreements with Trafigura but not take on new deals as of early July, a source familiar with the operations said.



Mexico's longstanding business relationships with Trafigura and other energy traders have become increasingly difficult to sustain because of additional layers of compliance progressively imposed by the company and its units, several sources said.



The primary reason for the increased scrutiny is that Pemex and its subsidiaries are worried about exposure to companies under investigation for corruption elsewhere, two of the sources said.



All sources spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter.



Other Pemex units continue trading with the Geneva-based trader, another source said. Reuters was unable to determine the frequency and size of the trading relationship, but the Americas accounted for 31% of Trafigura's oil revenues in 2020.



"We see no basis for new business to be suspended with Trafigura and look forward to clarifying the situation with PMI at the earliest opportunity," a Trafigura spokeswoman said, adding that its compliance standards have been reviewed by independent external counsel.



Pemex did not immediately respond to a request for comment.



At least two cargoes of gasoline and naphtha supplied by Trafigura were scheduled to arrive at Mexican ports this month, according to two sources with knowledge of the supply, confirming that shipments purchased before the suspension decision were not canceled.



In addition, a contract between Trafigura and Mexico's power company Comision Federal de Electricidad to supply LNG to the nation remains in effect, according to two separate sources.



Trafigura's two biggest trading divisions are oil and metals. The company traded about 6.4 million barrels per day of crude and refined products in the first half of this year, making it the biggest oil trader after Vitol.



Brazilian prosecutors in 2018 announced a probe into alleged bribery involving merchants Trafigura, Vitol and Glencore and officials at state-controlled company Petrobras.



Vitol, the largest commodity merchant, agreed last year to pay $164 million to U.S. and Brazilian authorities after admitting it bribed officials in Mexico, Brazil and Ecuador to obtain and retain business with state oil companies there.



Ecuador's state company Petroecuador has since 2020 removed Vitol and Gunvor from its suppliers list amid the probes.



President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador in June reiterated that Mexico wants Vitol to make public the name of the state oil company official who accepted bribes from Vitol.



PMI temporarily banned trading with Vitol in December. Mexico is trying to renegotiate some of its contracts with Vitol after the trader acknowledged paying kickbacks to win business. The ban remains in place, the source said.


Egypts prosecution annulled the asset freeze on Alaa and Gamal, the sons of late ousted president Hosni Mubarak after being exonerated of charges of illicit gains.

The decision renders Alaa Mubarak, his wife, and son, as well as Gamal Mubarak, his wife, and two daughters no longer prevented from the disposal and management of their funds, judicial sources said on Thursday.

The case of manipulating the stock exchange began in 2012 but Mubarak's sons were released on bail. In February 2020, Alaa and Gamal Mubarak were acquitted by the Cairo Criminal Court.

The former president's 30-year rule came to an end following mass protests that started in January 2011. He passed away in February 2020 at a Cairo hospital after suffering complications from surgery.

Following his ouster, Mubarak and his sons stood trial for various charges.

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A famous dentist accused of harassing male patients while providing dental care at his clinic was sentenced to 16 years of rigorous imprisonment by an Egyptian criminal court on Thursday.

The official charges levelled against the dentist is indecently assaulting four men.

He was detained in January merely one day after the countrys prosecution received an online petition filed by a lawyer of three males who accused the doctor of previously sexually harassing them and inciting them to commit debauchery with him.

TV commercial director Tameem Younis and actor Abbas Abu El-Hassan are among the plaintiffs, according to previous public posts on their social media accounts.

Younis said in a live Instagram video earlier this year that he was sexually harassed when he was 22 years old by the dentist while receiving dental care at his clinic.

The online petition comes amid a MeToo wave that encouraged several sexual abuse victims to come forward and report to the authorities incidents of sexual misconduct they experienced.

Other sexual violence-related incidents have been under investigation in the past months.

Thursdays ruling against the dentist is appealable.

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An Egyptian military plane carrying tons of vital medical equipment and drugs left Cairo on Thursday heading for Tunisia to help the Arab country overcome its current severe health crisis, the Egyptian Armed Forces announced.

This is the fourth military plane within 24 hours sent to Tunis with medical aid prepared by the Egyptian health ministry.



According to the Egyptian Armed Forces, the military plane was sent upon the directives of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi to continue Egypts humanitarian air bridge to Tunisia.

An Egyptian military aircraft loaded with medical equipment and supplies arrived at Tunis-Carthage International Airport to help support efforts against the #Covid19 pandemic. #TnPR  Tunisian Presidency -   (@TnPresidency) July 15, 2021

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Egypts President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi discussed the latest developments concerning the Decent Life presidential initiative with a group of Egyptian businessmen on Thursday, as its first conference is going to be held later at the Cairo International Stadium, the presidency announced.

According to the presidency, El-Sisi said that the Decent Life initiative is the biggest development project in the history of modern Egypt, which falls under the umbrella of the Vision 2030 agenda. The initiative aims to upgrade all aspects of life in the Egyptian countryside, adding that the state was determined to finish all the phases of the project in the shortest possible time in cooperation with the private sector, civil society, and development partners.

The Egyptian president thanked the businessmen for their contribution to the Decent Life project in order to achieve economic and social developments in the country, adding the initiative was a huge leap for Egypt and will reflect positively on the industry and business sector.

According to the presidency, the meeting included a discussion about the initiative and its goals to upgrade and modernize 4,584 villages across the governorates on all levels, including the social, health, education and economic level, and how those goals meet the sustained development goals of the United Nations.

Those villages represent 58% of the Egyptian population, the presidency said, adding that its initial cost is nearly EGP 700 billion (about $44.6 billion).

The first stage, involving the development and upgrading of 1,500 villages and their infrastructure, was discussed in the meeting.

The presidency stated that the initiative aims to end multi-dimensional poverty in the Egyptian countryside in cooperation and coordination of different specialized institutions in Egypt.

Egypts Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and Head of Egyptian General Intelligence Service Abbas Kamel also attended the meeting.

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Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly said on Thursday that the Decent Life initiative to upgrade life in the countryside is Egypts biggest megaproject in its modern history.

The Suez Canal was Egypts megaproject in the 19th century, the construction of Aswan High Dam was Egypts megaproject in the 20th century and the Decent Life project is Egypts megaproject in the 21st century, said the Egyptian prime minister in the first conference on the Decent Life initiative held at Cairo International Stadium.

In a presentation in front of Egypts President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, Madbouly described the project as the hardest, biggest and most comprehensive project that would change and upgrade the quality of life in Egypt over the past seven years.

Describing it as the biggest in the world, Mostafa Madbouly said that it is the only project in the world to fulfill all the United Nations sustained developments goals in the 21st century.

There are already more than 20 presidential initiatives on health, education, as well as other issues, under the umbrella of Decent Life initiative, the premier said in his presentation.

According to the prime minister, the Decent Life initiative costs more than EGP 700 billion (about $44.6 billion).

It is a 100 percent Egyptian project, he added.

Madbouly revealed that the project started as an experiment two years ago in 375 villages, and has currently grown to 4,584 villages.

Decent Life was first initiated in 2019 when the president charged the Ministry of Social Solidarity with developing Egypts poorest 1,000 villages.

In December 2020, President El-Sisi decided to expand the initiative to 4,500 villages within the framework of Egypts Sustainable Development Strategy: Vision 2030.

He also added that the first phase, which was launched on Thursday during the conference, will include many projects including infrastructure projects and schools as well as modern houses.

Mostafa Madbouly added that EGP 1.4 billion (just over $89 million) will allocated to SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) in the Decent Life project.

Chairwoman of the Board of Trustees of Decent Life Initiative Aya Omar said during the conference that the initiative received EGP 5.5 billion as donations to the projects from the private sector.

During the conference, the World Bank Group's Senior Vice President for the 2030 Development Agenda, UN Relations and Partnerships Mahmoud Mohieldin participated in a recorded video praising the Decent Life initiative.

The UN considers this initiative as one of the best practices to apply the programs of the sustained developments in the world, Mohieldin said, adding that UN made this judgement based on international standards like fighting poverty and gender equality.

More to follow ...

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Egypts President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi said on Thursday that Egypts national security, including its rights, is a red line that cannot be crossed.

In a public speech during the inauguration of the Decent Life initiative in Cairo, El-Sisi reiterated Egypts demand that Ethiopia and Sudan sign a legally binding agreement on the filling and operation of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).

"Lets make a legally binding agreement that will bring prosperity, security and peace to all of us," President El-Sisi said.

We have the economic and military power to impose our will and defend our interests. We have several options and we will consider them according to the situation and the circumstances at time, he added.

This is the first time the Egyptian President tackled the GERD issue publicly following the United Nations Security Council meeting on the Ethiopian dam last week.

We managed to put the GERD issue on the international agenda during the UNSC meeting, El-Sisi said.

We spoke with the Sudanese and the Ethiopians and made it clear during all our talks that we want the Nile [used] for cooperation and partnership, he said, adding that Egypt that does not intervene in other countries affairs or internal issues.

We offered to our brothers in Sudan and Ethiopia our cooperation and expertise in agriculture and energy on the condition that Egypts water rights not to be touched, El-Sisi said as he spoke informally in his speech about the GERD.

Tension have escalated in recent weeks as Ethiopia has gone ahead with its second filling of the dam in July without reaching an agreement with downstream countries Egypt and Sudan.

Sisi said he understands that the Egyptian peoples concern is legitimate, but assured them that "Egypt is a big country and we should not be worried."

El-Sisis words concerning the GERD came as he officially inaugurated the first phase of the Decent Life initiative in a public event held at Cairo International Stadium.

"New Republic"

El-Sisis inaugurated the first phase of the Decent Life initiative in a public event held at Cairo International Stadium.

I declare the start of Egypts new republic tonight, El-Sisi said in his speech as he announced the launch of the first phase of the Decent Life megaproject in front of thousands of spectators representing the different villages from all over the country that are participating in the initiative.

This is the greatest project aimed at upgrading and developing the Egyptian countryside, the Egyptian president said.

In his speech, El-Sisi recounted how the project aims to raise the standard of living of 58 million Egyptians in more than 4,000 villages in the time span of only three years at a cost of more than EGP 700 billion (about $44.6 billion).

The launch of this promising project is the launch of Egypts new republic, the modern civilian state based on citizenship, democracy and stability," the Egyptian president said.

The Decent Life project was first initiated in 2019 when the president charged the Ministry of Social Solidarity with developing Egypts poorest 1,000 villages.

In December 2020, President El-Sisi decided to expand the initiative to include 4,500 villages within the framework of the Sustainable Development Strategy: Egypt's Vision 2030.

The enormous volume of work required to develop the 4,500 villages means they have been divided into three groups of 1,500 villages each.

The first phase started in January 2021 with a budget of nearly EGP 200 billion (about $12.7 billion) and is due to be completed by the end of FY 2021-22.

During the launch, President El-Sisi honored a group of governorate executives, Decent Life volunteers and members for their work in the past two years.

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When war broke out last year in Ethiopia's northern Tigray region, Solomon Alabachew acted fast, grabbing his Kalashnikov and rushing to the front with his fellow ethnic Amhara militia fighters.

Their swift seizure of western Tigray -- a stretch of land Amharas claim was stolen from them decades ago -- stands as the greatest achievement of Solomon's life, the 37-year-old told AFP this week.

That helps explain his current fury at resurgent ethnic Tigrayan rebels, who on Monday began a new push intended to kick the Amharas out again, jump-starting fresh violence in an already gruesome eight-month-old conflict.

Two days later, Solomon dusted off his firearm, threw on his green fatigues and raced north, ending up in the Amhara mountain town of Adi Arkay with thousands of other combatants awaiting orders to advance.

They are part of a massive mobilisation called for by top officials in the Amhara region, which has long been embroiled in bitter land disputes with Tigray, its northern neighbour.

On Wednesday the Amhara government spokesman Gizachew Muluneh announced that regional special forces and militias would shift to "attack" mode to reverse the recent battlefield gains by the Tigrayan rebels.

His statement appeared just hours after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, winner of the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize, vowed to "repel" attacks by Ethiopia's enemies.

- 'We won't back down' -

The bellicose rhetoric came not a moment too soon for Solomon, who is itching to fight again.

"We came here to take the necessary measures, to annihilate and to pay sacrifice. All Amhara people, from top to bottom, have mobilised," he said.

"The people have been very patient with the government's approach so far, but even if the orders (to attack) don't come, we won't back down."

Abiy sent troops into Tigray last November, saying the move came in response to an assault on federal army camps ordered by the region's ruling party, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF).

It was the bloody culmination of a long falling-out between the young, reform-minded leader who took power in 2018 and the party that dominated national politics for nearly three decades before that.

It also represented a golden opportunity for Amharas to retake land in both western and southern Tigray that, in their eyes, the TPLF illegally annexed back in the early 1990s.

The United States has raised concerns about ethnic cleansing in western Tigray, where Amharan forces have been accused of expelling thousands of people.

But the war took a stunning turn last month when the Tigray capital Mekele fell to the rebels and Abiy declared a unilateral ceasefire, pulling most federal troops from the region.

Pressing their advantage, the rebels announced a new offensive this week, with a spokesman telling AFP it was intended to "liberate every square inch of Tigray".

The spokesman, Getachew Reda, also claimed the rebels were already in control of Alamata, the biggest town in southern Tigray, and would soon hold the western town of Mai-Tsebri, north of Adi Arkay.

- 'Trying to terrorise our people' -

Ethiopia's army has not responded to requests for comment on losses and gains. But in an interview with AFP, the head of Amhara's militia bureau, Colonel Bamlaku Abay, acknowledged some losses while asserting Getachew's claims were overstated.

"They have taken some places around Korem (a town in southern Tigray) and around Mai-Tsebri. They took those places when the military withdrew," Bamlaku said from his current base in Adi Arkay.

He added, though, that he was "very sure" the Amhara militias would push the rebels back once they deployed en masse, saying they were motivated by historical claims to the land.

"The TPLF is trying to terrorise our people and our land, but so far we have not responded," he said. "We will prevail. We have the truth on our side. They don't have the truth."

- 'Existential threat' -

Down the street from Bamlaku's office, Amhara militia fighters sipped coffee, polished boots and otherwise milled about on the streets of Adi Arkay, which is nestled among jagged mountains close to the pre-war border between Amhara and Tigray.

Hundreds of their comrades -- guns hanging from their shoulders, personal effects secured in Spiderman- and Bob Marley-themed tote bags -- walked south along the main road out of town, though Bamlaku said they were just taking part in a rotation and would return soon.

A federal military base sits at the southern entrance of Adi Arkay, but Amhara militia fighters told AFP they fully expected to lead the charge into both western and southern Tigray.

The goal is to stop the rebels at Mai-Tsebri, said Fenta Tereffe, a spokesman for North Gondar zone which includes Adi Arkay.

If not, he said, the rebels would push south all the way to Addis Ababa, killing Amharas as they go, he said.

He declined to estimate how many thousands of militia fighters had mobilised this week, but he stressed "we have got more than enough for the effort".

"Not only fighters, but also resources," he said, adding that at least some civil servants had opted to forgo their salaries this month to help fund operations.

Other non-combatants are also finding ways to contribute, with Amhara women preparing sacks of bread, dried injera and roasted barley that young people rush to the front, Fenta said.

"The Amhara people don't want war and they're well aware that there is no profit from war... But we now face an existential threat," he said.

Such stark statements highlight the intensity of feeling on both sides of the conflict, said an Ethiopian political scientist who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the situation.

"We are entering the most impassioned phase of the war in Tigray," he said.

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The death toll in South Africa's unrest rose to 117 on Thursday, as the country called up its army reserves in a bid to quell looting that has stoked fears of shortages and dealt a crippling economic blow.

The acting minister in the presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, told reporters that Johannesburg, South Africa's economic capital, was now "relatively calm" while the southeastern province of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) -- the epicentre of the violence -- "remains volatile."

Defence, security and police ministers and top army generals were dispatched to KZN to assess the situation and oversee the expanded deployment of security forces.

On Wednesday, the government said it would call out around 25,000 troops to tackle the emergency -- 10 times the number that it initially deployed and equivalent to about a third of the country's active military personnel.

Army chief Lieutenant-General Lawrence Mbatha ordered all reserve members to report for duty on Thursday, as the unrest entered its sixth day.

Minister Ntshavheni said "by this morning, 10,000 boots were already on the ground".

Stores and warehouses in Johannesburg and KZN have been ransacked, devastating crucial supply chains for food, fuel and medicines in Africa's most industrialised economy.

Thousands of business are estimated to have been plundered in what the minister described as "economic sabotage" masterminded by 12 suspects.

"Of the 12 alleged instigators, one is in custody and... the (police) tracking team has increased the surveillance of the remaining 11," she said.

In all 2,203 people have been arrested during the unrest for various offences including theft.

Looting continued on Thursday in KZN, but the situation was quieter in Johannesburg, where volunteers in the city's townships took part in cleanup operations.

Residents lined up for their turn to buy food and other essentials at a mall in Alexandra township in northern Johannesburg that had been spared looting, as 20 soldiers patrolled the floors.

Volunteers took part in a cleanup operation at the Jabulani shopping centre in Soweto.

Community leader Musa Mbele-Radebe, 30, told AFP: "The use of the army is quite good, because our people are quite scared of the army compared to the police.

"It only took four soldiers to control a situation of a thousand (people) that was gathering in this mall."

Zuma Protest

The unrest began a day after former president Jacob Zuma -- who commands support from some of the country's poor -- began a 15-month jail term on July 8 for refusing to testify to a commission probing corruption under his tenure.

Protests quickly turned into looting as crowds pillaged shopping malls, hauling away goods as police stood by, seemingly powerless to act.

As the crisis escalated, the armed forces on Monday said they were sending 2,500 troops to help restore order.

The figure was criticised by many as paltry, given that 70,000 soldiers were deployed last year to enforce a strict coronavirus lockdown.

On Wednesday, Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula told parliament she had requested "plus or minus" 25,000 troops.

The request came after President Cyril Ramaphosa warned that parts of the country "may soon be running short of basic provisions" following disruption to supply chains.

TV footage of the casual looting has deeply shocked many South Africans. Business confidence has been savaged at a time when the economy is already mired in unemployment, especially among young people.

Michael Sun, a safety official for the opposition Democratic Alliance, said he went on a tour of Johannesburg and saw a car dealer whose 50 vehicles were just burnt-out shells.

"The devastation is really bad," he said. "Lots of the people are salvaging what they can get. Lots of the smaller businesses don't have insurance -- they are struggling."

Locals have started forming vigilante groups to protect property and infrastructure in their neighbourhoods.

Tensions are high in Durban's Phoenix township between black South Africans and counterparts of Indian heritage where police Minister Bheki Cele said 15 people had died. The hashtag #PhoenixMassacre trended on Thursday.

Intelligence firm Pangea Risk said in a note that "in the immediate outlook, the deployment of additional... soldiers to (Johannesburg and environs) will further contain outbreaks of unrest," but "the security situation in KwaZulu-Natal is

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Related Neck rubs, tapped phones: Merkel has history with US leaders Merkel: Europe 'on thin ice' amid delta virus variant rise Chancellor Angela Merkel visits the White House in her diplomatic swan song Thursday, underlining how important the veteran German leader has been to the transatlantic relationship, but also highlighting the unanswered questions she leaves behind.

Merkel, who has dealt with four US presidents and is stepping down later this year, will meet President Joe Biden for an official working visit.

Starting with a breakfast at Vice President Kamala Harris's residence, before switching to the White House for one-on-one talks with Biden, and then an early dinner, the day is designed to "convey gratitude," a senior Biden administration official said.

The White House insists this is "very much a working visit," rather than a ceremonial farewell for the woman widely seen as Europe's steadiest leader during almost 16 years at the helm of the continent's biggest economy.

She and Biden will discuss climate change, Covid-19 vaccine distribution, and the future of Afghanistan now that US, German and other foreign troops are leaving.

Jihadist threats in Africa's Sahel region are on the agenda, the administration official said.

Reflecting Germany's pivotal role in NATO and transatlantic security, the two leaders were also set to discuss Russian "cyberattacks and territorial aggression," Ukraine's struggle against Russia and "countering China's rising influence."

Unresolved issues

However, Merkel is now out of time for resolving some of the pressing issues facing Europe and the United States.

These include the controversial Nord Stream 2 pipeline which is set to funnel Russian natural gas to Germany.

Not only will it bypass Ukraine, leading to fears that Russia is deliberately weakening its neighbor's economy, but the project underscores European energy dependency on an increasingly hostile Moscow.

Despite strong criticism of the pipeline, Biden in May waived key US sanctions on Nord Stream 2 after concluding that it was too late to stop the project and that it was better to seek cooperation with Germany.

Biden "will raise his long standing concerns" on Thursday, the official said, but clearly there is little in the way of movement that can be expected.

Biden has invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to the White House later this summer.

However, Nord Stream 2 is one of the reasons why Zelensky is nervous about how much he can count on European support against the far more powerful Russians.

On the flip side, Germany's next leaders will no longer be able to be sure that whoever holds power in the United States after Biden won't revert to the extraordinary disruption of the Donald Trump era.

"Trump's raging hostility forced Germany to examine the unhealthy aspects of its dependency on America," wrote Constanze Stelzenmuller, from the Brookings Institution think tank, in the Financial Times.

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Local Afghan leaders and the Taliban have agreed on a ceasefire in the western province of Badghis, its governor told AFP Thursday, days after the insurgents launched a major assault on the provincial capital of Qala-i-Naw.

"The ceasefire between Afghan security forces and the Taliban began at around 10:00 am today. The ceasefire was brokered by tribal elders," Badghis governor Hesamuddin Shams told AFP, adding the truce had no specific time frame.

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Minister of International Cooperation Rania Al-Mashat met on Thursday with several heads of chambers of commerce, business councils, and associations to explore opportunities to enhance the private sectors engagement in national development efforts by advancing international partnerships with international financial institutions (IFIs).

This meeting comes in line with the states efforts to scale up the private sectors engagement in the national economy and development process.

Al-Mashat claimed the meeting is a tool to enhance the establishment of a liaison between the representatives of the private sector in Egypt in order to create efficient partnerships between the private sector and multilateral and bilateral development partners.

This also creates integration between all stakeholders through development financings and technical support provided, which accordingly paves the way to unleashing the private sectors potential and supporting its role in enhancing the countrys development cooperation portfolio, Al-Mashat explained.

She also affirmed that the strengthened communication between business councils and chambers of commerce will lead to building effective cooperation mechanisms in the near future that will serve the achievement of Egypts Vision 2030.

On green financing, Al-Mashat emphasised that it is one of the most important financing tools in order to enhance the private sectors engagement, which has become one of the main areas of interest for IFIs.

In this respect, Egypt was the first country in the region to launch sovereign green bonds, which took place in 2020, with a value of $750 million.

In 2020, the Ministry of International Cooperation secured $9.8 billion in development financing, including $3.2 billion in support of the private sector from development partners such as the World Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the European Investment Bank (EIB), the French Development Agency (AFD), the African Development Bank (AfDB), and the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development.

These financings contributed to supporting several projects and companies across various sectors such as renewable energy, telecommunications, infrastructure, housing, tourism, and manufacturing, in addition to providing credit lines for small and medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).

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The European Union (EU) and the EU National Institutes of Culture's (EUNIC) foreign policy plan is to support the cultural and creative industry field in Egypt by raising social awareness of the importance of creative industries via job opportunities creation and achieving sustainable development

The EUNIC announced the recipients of grants from the EU and the EUNIC in the cultural and creative industry field for the year 2021. EUNIC supported 10 projects with small to medium grants.

The small projects are Echo by Nermin Habib, Bahgaga Mic by Ayman Helmy, On the Map by Medhat Anis, My Voice is Heard by Zahra Abdullah, and Hair by Valerie Aref.

The medium grants projects for the institutions are AFCA School of Art by the AFCA Art Foundation, Art Windows by Alwan and Awtar Foundation, Basarya BAVLab by Basarya for Arts Foundation, Urban Heritage Exhibition in Mansoura by the Urban Initiatives Platform Foundation CLUSTER, and Silsilah by Rezodanse Egypte Centre.

The grant winners were announced and signed their contracts in a special event held at the Italian Cultural Institute's terrace in Zamalek, on Sunday 11 July. The signing of the contracts was attended by the representative of the EU Juana Mira Cabello, Head of the Economic Cooperation Sector of the EU Michele Rizzi, Head of EUNIC and Director of the Italian Institute Davide Scalmani, and the cultural attache of the EU, along with a number of members of the EUNIC, Director of Cultural programming at the Goethe Institute Anne Eberhard, Communication Officer of The European Egyptian Cultural Programme (EECP) Mona Massoud, and Project Manager of the EECP Aya Dowara.

The EECP also works on several specialised components to support the cultural and creative sector, including the grant programme, which is organised annually, the artistic residency programme, a specialised programme to support art festivals  such as the Cairo Jazz Festival, Panorama of the European Film Festival, and Aswan Film Festival for Women  and training programmes to raise artists capacity in this important sector.

The EECP and EUNIC support individuals and small initiatives via small grants (Up to EGP 80,000 or approximately 4,000 Euros), and institutions that have more than two years of experience in the cultural scene through medium grants (Up to EGP 300,000 or approximately 15,000 Euros).

The projects develop new spaces in the fields of art, culture, and creativity. The Echo project trains women on contemporary dance and storytelling through performing arts in Port Said and Luxor. The fund also supported Bahgaga Mic, which trains a group of women on singing folklore monologues that they can perform in a concert by the end of the project with the famous band Bahgaga.

In Upper Egypt, in Sohag in particular, the On the Map project organises technical trainings and workshops in the film industry with the aim of professionally producing two short films. Another project in Upper Egypt is the My Voice is Heard project, which aims to enable women in Sohag to tell, write, and document their stories through holding open meetings and producing a book that collects their stories along with an open performance.

Finally, the Hair project demonstrates the societal models of hair styles, aiming to create a community dialogue about beauty, the body, and our perceptions of feminism, freedom, etc. through commissioning different artistic photographers.

As for the medium projects, the AFCA presents the school of arts to teach children outside of Cairo about performing theatre arts. The Art Windows project was chosen to train children in various forms of art and creativity in Dakahlia.

In Mansoura, the Urban Heritage Exhibition project will restore Andria Cafe and make it a platform that brings artists, creators and craftsmen together in one place, establishing alternative cultural spaces in Mansoura city.

The Basarya BAV-Lab and Silsilah projects, on the other hand, will take place in Alexandria. The lab will create an intensive formation with 12 artists that will work together collaboratively on exploring many potential relationships of incorporating music and visual arts together and create a unique original artwork.

Silsilah is a dance training programme aiming to provide a comprehensive training opportunity to a group of 10-15 young adults from Alexandria. By the end of the progaramme, Silsilah will produce an original dance piece and performance. It will be presented on the stage of the Great Hall of the Alexandria Library, with another performance planned to take place in Cairo.

The EUNIC in Egypt is a European network of 13 organisations engaging in cultural relations. EUNIC Egypt works though the Euro-Egyptian Cultural Programme and has been supporting the Egyptian cultural and artistic scene since 2019.

Its philosophy is to support artists through providing technical and financial capacities to put start-ups on track, support the already ongoing projects sustainability, and support organisations in developing projects and initiatives.

The EUNIC seeks to create a liberal space for the arts and cultural sector in Egypt, where countries and organisations share knowledge and expertise in order to introduce different cultures and bring them together.

The programme seeks to create European Egyptian partnerships in the creative sector that would enrich the cultural community dialogue, open the space for knowledge and expertise exchange, and monitor and seize opportunities to create new spaces for artists that would help them reach their goals.

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What is the role of UNODC in combating terrorism in the Middle East and the Gulf?

As the custodian of international norms and standards on crime prevention, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) works on a wide range of issues to help member states at large and particularly those in areas like the Middle East and the Gulf to improve their legal, regulatory, and institutional frameworks to prevent crime.

Terrorism prevention is also high on the priority list of the UNODC. We start by helping member states to develop and enhance existing legal and regulatory frameworks to comply with resolutions coming out of the UN Security Council in addition to the relevant treaties and conventions covering terrorism and its financing.

Thus, we work with countries to ensure that their domestic legal system recognise the major offences of terrorism and embed all the needed legal instruments to detect, prevent, and stop terrorism at the national, regional, and international levels. The second level we work on is helping countries to establish an appropriate, and to enhance the existing, institutional framework in their main law-enforcement and criminal justice bodies such as the police, the security services, the prosecution service, and the judiciary to ensure the active and effective detection, investigation, interrogation, and prosecution of terrorism cases in their jurisdictions.

The third level is building countries capacities to prevent the violent extremism and fundamentalism that leads to terrorist acts. In addition, we help countries put together methods to enhance public awareness with regards to terrorism.

Helping member states to build the needed national, regional, and international partnerships to help them face the threats of terrorism is particularly important. For example, on the national level, we support the establishment of national commissions and committees including all stakeholders, starting with the government and civil society such as NGOs, because terrorism prevention is a very complex exercise that needs the collaboration of the whole of society.

This is the reason why we also work with all national committees on countering terrorism in most member states, of course the Middle East and the Gulf included.

In light of the expansion of the use of social media and communication platforms, how does UNODC help in limiting the use of cyberspace and communication technology in terrorist operations?

A lot of efforts are being put in by UN member states, UNODC, as well as other UN entities, to prevent the use of the Internet for terrorism and crime.

In doing so, there are three different categories of prevention. First, we try to help member states in building the capacities of law enforcement to be able to detect and intercept the use of the Internet in committing crime at large and terrorist acts in particular, and of course we are also lean on partnerships with our agencies and international entities such as Interpol and Europol. As the regional representative of UNODC for the Gulf, I work very closely with GCCPOL, which is the entity that deals with criminal justice and law enforcement in the GCC countries.

The second category is the prevention of the use of Internet for recruitment by terrorist groups. With the technological revolution that we have seen in the whole world, and of course also in the Arab world and the GCC, terrorist groups have started targeting young people in particular and the users of social media platforms to try to inject their poisonous narratives and recruit more members to such groups.

We have seen hundreds of cases in many countries, Europe included, where youth in particular have been introduced to and recruited by terrorist groups over the Internet. As a result, they have in some cases travelled to join them in areas where such groups exist like Syria, Iraq, and Libya.

An important aspect of our task is working with religious institutions and establishments such as Al-Azhar in Egypt, the Bin Naif Society in Saudi Arabia, and Hedayah in the United Arab Emirates, to get the help of their scholars to counter the violent extremist narratives of the terrorist groups.

Do you have any agreements with communication service providers, usually foreign companies, to help in countering terrorism?

One of the main challenges that countries and the UN faces is the fact that most of the social media platforms are privately owned by global enterprises. However, when these have been approached, they have shown a full commitment and have engaged with us and UN member states to make sure that there are very strict measures that prevent the use of these social media platforms for the interest of the terrorist groups.

I would like to say that when such partnerships with the private sector came into force and the coordination actually started between member states and the service-providers, this helped very much in the war against terrorism worldwide.

Egypt has strategic relations and strong ties with the Gulf states. How have these been translated into joint efforts to combat terrorism and extremism?

Of course, it is not only the culture and traditions and the geographic space that link the Gulf countries with Egypt, but also the aspects and perspectives of national security and the common challenge of terrorism. Most of the coordination and cooperation we are doing with the Gulf countries is with the full participation of Egypt in the areas of countering terrorism, countering violent extremism, and more importantly in countering the financing of terrorism, because the financing of terrorism is actually the root cause for the existence of these groups.

There is a lot of cooperation between the Gulf countries and Egypt to share information, intelligence, and practices and experience in the area of countering terrorism and countering the financing of terrorism that is a challenge that is threatening the entire region.

Many Western countries are looking forward to working closely with such partnerships between the Gulf countries and Egypt, in order to benefit from the ability of the Gulf countries and Egypt and other Arab countries to use Muslim scholars to offer a moderate religious discourse to counter the narrative extremist groups may use to recruit new members.

Moreover, there are a lot of linkages and financial ties between the Gulf, Egypt, and Europe and the US, and that is why they seek to benefit from such solid partnership between the Gulf countries and Egypt in countering the financing of terrorism and working on the detection, interception, and prevention of money laundering and the illicit financial flows that are feeding terrorism not only in the region but also beyond.

One of the main manifestations of such partnership is the cooperation among the Gulf countries, Egypt, Morocco, Iraq, and Jordan to implement UN Security Council resolutions related to terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda, the Taliban, and the Islamic State group to detect and intercept the financing of such entities and individuals. The Gulf countries work very closely with Egypt and a number of Arab countries to ensure that they have a very advanced, progressive, yet harmonised, listing system that detects and dismantles such terrorist groups and dries out the financial means of financing them.

This has been very rewarding not only for the region, but also at the global and international levels as well, because it has revealed the involvement of certain entities and individuals in terrorist acts and in supporting terrorist groups, and it has helped in intercepting and drying up their financing sources.

In the light of the current tensions in the region, to what extent are you given powers to limit and investigate crimes related to terrorism, the Internet, and social media?

UNODC does not interfere directly with any ongoing investigations or interrogations, but rather puts countries in the best position to conduct the most effective investigations, detection, information, and evidence-gathering leading to interrogation and prosecutions. This takes place through helping them to develop and build capacities for law enforcement and to provide them with the best evidence-gathering techniques, like, for example, techniques to deal with cyber-crime, especially in relation to organised crime and terrorism.

We also help in building regional and international platforms for the coordination of criminal cases on organised crime and terrorism. For example, in the Gulf and through our work with the GCC Secretariat, we have been able to support the establishment of the GCCPOL, which is a platform that gathers law-enforcement and security agencies from all six Gulf countries to work on harmonising criminal intelligence. It also cooperates with its peers from international and regional platforms such as Interpol and Europol to make sure that global efforts on investigating, interrogating, and prosecuting such cases are done in coordination to achieve such objectives.

We are also working equally actively with global counter-terrorism and counter-organised crime programnes led by our headquarters in Vienna, while maintaining a fully collaborative partnership with our regional programme for the Arab states led by our regional office in Cairo.

Of the main challenges, one of the first is the nature of organised crime and terrorism. First, these have a changing nature, as they differ from one country to another depending on the goals of the criminals or terrorist groups. So, this crime is transnational, as it crosses the borders of the countries concerned and benefits from its existence in several countries to facilitate and implement criminal acts in other targeted countries.

That is why during intelligence-gathering and the detection and investigation of such crimes, the law-enforcement or the security agency of one country never has the full picture and the full information, because the information is scattered between several countries and several territories. Gathering this information requires a lot of coordination between law-enforcement and criminal-justice entities in other countries, and that is exactly the role of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime in enhancing and triggering international cooperation in investigating and prosecuting organised crime and terrorism.

There are many facets of terrorism. Is the role of the United Nations limited to combating religious terrorism?

Terrorism is an act of terror that is committed for religious, political, or criminal reasons by a group of any origin that is seeking to terrify people or governments in order to achieve a certain objective. It does not have to be for religious reasons, as some people might think.

For example, we see in some parts of Latin America and the Caribbean drug cartels and drug lords using terrorist acts against the government and peoples of the nations concerned in order to be able to pursue the illegal cultivation, production, and illicit trade in drugs. We have seen also that in other parts of the world certain extremists belonging to religious sects target people of different ethnicities to cleanse the society, as they claim.

It is unfortunate that in the last few decades there have been a lot of terrorist acts committed by terrorist groups hailing from a certain religious group, as it is more rewarding for them to hide under the cloak of religion. But, of course, we do understand that terrorism is much wider than any particular religion or belief, and that it includes, for example, the hate speech that might trigger a terrorist act.

Does the United Nations work to combat the ideology that leads to terrorism and human trafficking, or is it satisfied with military and financial solutions only?

Most of our work does not only aim at combating terrorism or preventing it but is primarily concerned with enhancing the ability of member states to counter violent extremism and the violent thoughts that lead to terrorist acts in the long run. We work on preventing terrorism by helping governments and presenting members of society, particularly the youth, with a well-balanced religious discourse that will attract them back to society and to a healthy mental state that denounces violent extremism.

In so doing, we take full advantage of the many entities and bodies in the Gulf countries, but also in the rest of the Arab region and Egypt, that work in this vein. For example, in the Emirates we have the Hedayah International Centre that works with the rest of the world on developing a counter-narrative to the fundamentalism and extremism that leads to terrorism. We work in Saudi Arabia with the Prince Mohamed bin Naif Centre that works on the rehabilitation of prisoners and terrorists. Al-Azhar in Egypt is playing a prominent role in developing the counter-narrative of what is called moderate Islam that explains to the Arab nations and the West that Islam is a religion that calls for peace and the security of all members of society and the rest of the world.

What are the types of crimes that are classified as human trafficking? What are the difficulties you face in eliminating these forms of crimes?

Human trafficking or trafficking in persons is one of the main types of organised crime, and the extent to which it can be harmful not only to countries but also to society and its members has many manifestations. The most famous, which some people may mistakenly believe is the only side of human trafficking, is the exploitation of prostitution in different countries. However, human trafficking also involves the exploitation of human beings in any sort of work that is aimed at bringing a financial return or a financial benefit to an organised crime group.

For example, we have forced labour, and exploitation at work, particularly in construction or farming, as we can see in some Western countries and in the Arab region, as well as trafficking in human organs. I believe trafficking in organs is one of the most shocking manifestations of human trafficking, and it shows the extent to which pressing socioeconomic factors, in addition to the disturbances and conflicts that are happening in a lot of countries, can push members of society who face poverty and have no source of income to sacrifice their organs to survive. Organised crime groups seek to take advantage of such tragic circumstances to traffic organs from whoever will financially reward them.

We also see emerging manifestations of human trafficking in the Arab region, such as arranged marriages where family members seek to traffic their underage daughters as temporary brides to whoever will pay the family. We have also seen that the political unrest and the armed conflict in many countries in the Arab world have caused the displacement of families from their homes, leaving them in poverty with no source of income and making them more vulnerable to human trafficking, which has resulted in the emergence of a new trend of trafficking in persons that is exploited by terrorist groups in what is referred to as jihad marriages. This refers to terrorist groups seeking to traffic females from different countries of the world and sexually exploit them to encourage foreign terrorist fighters to fight in battles.

The UNODC, being the custodian of the relevant protocols of the UN Convention Against Transnational Organised Crime, is exerting all possible efforts to help member states in countering such challenges and working together not only on detecting, investigating, and prosecuting cases of human-trafficking, but also and more importantly providing the victims with care and support. It provides the victims of human trafficking with all the social, health, and legal protections they need to recover from such atrocities.

In the Gulf countries, for example, we are working with national committees on combating human trafficking, as is also the case in Egypt. We are also working with the Arab League, which is the regional body that gathers the Arab countries to support the development of Arab responses against human trafficking and provides the needed victim care and support. The Arab network on combating human trafficking brings together all relevant entities from the Arab region to work harmoniously to fight human trafficking and provide its victims with all the needed care and support.

The UN plays an active role in many contentious issues. What funding sources enable it to play this role?

The UN depends on the contributions of its member states in supporting its activities worldwide. There are various sources of funding: the regular contribution for membership, or a countrys contribution to support a certain cause or certain activities, like, for example, for the UNODC Office for the Gulf Region to which the Gulf countries contribute 100 per cent of the needed funds for the Gulf region, in addition to contributing to our global activities aimed at helping other countries.

There are many countries in the world that support the fight against terrorism, the fight against drugs, and the fight against human trafficking and contribute specific funds to support those activities.

How has your background as an Egyptian judge affected your work and helped you to reach this high-ranking position in one of the most important and sensitive United Nations bodies?

I have been blessed with the knowledge and experience I gained from working for more than 18 years in Egyptian law enforcement and the judiciary. I started in the prosecution service and made my way up to the judiciary to become a judge, and this gave me a wide spectrum of experience on crime prevention and criminal justice, and it helped me very much in understanding crime and investigative techniques related to criminal justice and law enforcement.

It also gave me also a good understanding of the patterns of organised crime and terrorism, money laundering, and the financing of terrorism. My work as a judge provided me with knowledge and experience on how to analyse cases, how to weigh evidence, and how to issue balanced sentencing. Together with my academic education in the area of international criminal law, I was also lucky to study with one of the prominent figures who established this subject in Egypt, the late Mahmoud Sherif Bassiouni, who was also the head of a fact-finding mission in the former Yugoslavia.

By the time I joined the UNODC, I had a great deal of experience in the Egyptian judiciary, in addition to the academic knowledge that enabled me to take lead positions in Afghanistan and in the UNODC headquarters in Vienna, and now most recently as the regional representative of the Organisation for the Gulf Countries.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 15 July, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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During the Diplomacy Forum held in the Turkish Mediterranean coastal town of Antalya last month, Afghan Foreign Minister Haneef Atmar expressed his governments appreciation for Turkeys offer to assume responsibility for securing Kabul International Airport following the departure of US forces from Afghanistan. Turkey has an extremely important role both at a regional and global level, he told the state-run Anadolu news agency on the fringe of the conference. We very much welcome Turkeys willingness to sustain the capabilities and the facilities as well as the high-level technological arrangements for the airport. He added that this measure was necessary to ensure the continuous presence of diplomatic missions, consuls and embassies in the Afghan capital.

Ankara is certain not to disappoint. After all, it had been pushing for months to win such a strategic post to crown its efforts in Afghanistan. Even before the rise of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) 18 years ago, Turkey had been a player in Afghanistan, deploying troops as it sought to expand its economic interests and political influence. When Recep Tayyip Erdogan came to power as prime minister in 2003, he added a religious and Ottoman historical dimension to the countrys mission in the central Asian country. Last week, Washington and Ankara discussed the nuts and bolts of an agreement on how Turkey is to provide security for Hamid Karzai International Airport and the financial and logistical support Ankara will receive for that purpose.

For its part the Taliban movement has rejected the Turkish move out of hand. It insists all foreign forces have to go and that includes Turkish troops. Responding to Erdogans offer to secure the airport last month, a Taliban spokesman said that Turkey should withdraw its troops from Afghanistan under the 2020 deal for the pullout of US forces. The Taliban, which have asserted their control over more than 80 per cent of Afghani territory, are now within reach of Kabul, their main goal, and they claim that a takeover of the capital is a matter of time. If they succeed, they will expel President Ashraf Ghani and his government which authorised the fake security mandate to the Turks. Taliban spokesmen have frequently boasted that Afghanistan is the graveyard of empires, warning that even if another Islamic country attempted to move in, the Afghanis would consider it an occupying power that would meet the same fate as other invaders. Would this threat deter Erdogan from keeping the 500 Turkish troops - the largest remaining foreign military force - in that war-torn country?

Most likely not. The great Turkish leader will press forward in his glorious march which will reap benefit for the Turkish and Afghan people, the pro-Erdogan media tells us.

But that has not alleviated concerns aired by political elites in Ankara and Istanbul, including some from the very corridors of the ruling AKP. They are worried about the unknown that awaits Turkey and Turkish soldiers in countries where they are not welcome; it helps little to know that other influential players in the vicinity, from Russia to India and China, believe that Turkish expansionism harms their strategic interests.

Turkish opposition parties keep pressing for answers to their questions. What does Erdogan hope to achieve by taking on that complex and unquestionably risky task. At what cost is this going to come to Turkey, which is hardly in the best of economic states?

Mustafa Balbay, a political correspondent and columnist for Cumhuriyet newspaper, reminded readers that before heading off to Brussels last month, Erdogan revealed the result of his forthcoming summit with US President Joe Biden. The Turkish president said that Turkey was the only country that could take on the security task in Afghanistan after the US left. He predicted that, in exchange for making the offer, his and Bidens relationship would get off on the right foot.

What more could the US possibly want? Balbay asks.

He answers, One is reminded of Napoleons words, You dont have to love me. Its enough that you die for me.

Balbay relates that when Mustafa Kemal Ataturk saw World War II approach, he took steps to ensure Turkeys security. These included the Balkan Pact to the west and the Sadabat Pact to the east. The latter extended to Kabul. Ataturk knew very well that Afghanistan is the keystone of Asia. It is Chinas neighbour and a geography that Russia wants to keep under its coverage.

The Cumhuriyet columnist also noted that 60 per cent of Afghanistan is ungoverned territory. Plus its the worlds main source of drug production. The drug is produced and bought at the value of one in Afghanistan. It reaches the Turkish border at the value of 10, leaves Istanbul with a value of 100 and reaches a value of 1000 by time it reaches Brussels. This is the geography about which Erdogan said, We are the best equipped to provide security in Afghanistan. What kind of security? For who? For what in return?

Erdogan and his extremist right wing allies in the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) are not interested in such details, much less in answering such questions. What concerns them is staunching haemorrhaging support for the AKP and MHP in case elections occur soon. They calculated that sidling up to Biden with the offer of taking up guard duty in Afghanistan would take the pressure off of Ankara, shift the focus away from its repressive practices and violations of human rights, and maybe lead Washington to reconsider sanctions against Turkey for its purchase of the Russian-made S-400 missile system.

As for what makes Erdogan so confident about the mission in Afghanistan, he is counting on two factors: the fact that the majority of the population is Sunni Muslim, and the fact that the country has sizeable Turkic (Uzbek and Turkmen) minorities. Ankara has invested heavily in these during the past ten years, building schools in Afghanistan, offering large numbers of grants to study in Turkey, training Afghan civil servants, increasing the presence of Yunes Emre centres to disseminate Turkish culture and language, broadcasting Turkish films and television programmes, etc. All such activities have been instrumental in developing Turkeys soft power in Afganistan, especially in Uzbek- and Turkmen-speaking areas. In addition, Turkey and Afghanistan have broadened their scope of diplomatic and strategic cooperation. For example, Turkey has been heavily involved in training Afghan military and police officers. At another level, the AKP has also attempted to forge political ties with similarity minded Islamist parties in Afghanistan.

Nevertheless, the Afghan terrain remains as rugged and treacherous as ever. If Erdogan gets his way and Turkeys troops become the last NATO forces in Afghanistan, Turkey may soon be looking at another quagmire such as the one in Syria where every step we took ended in frustration, as Balbay put it. Essentially, Turkey didnt enter Syria; the Syrians entered Turkey, and the leaders of fellow NATO countries cant shower enough praise on Turkey for this. There are nearly six million Syrians in Turkey. Balbay suggests that if Kabul falls to the Taliban, thousands more displaced by war will cross the mountains barefoot into Iran and from there to Turkey, where there are already more than 500,000 Afghan refugees.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 15 July, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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On 23 August 1921, Faisal Bin Al-Hussein, son of the sharif of Mecca, was proclaimed king of Iraq, which had been carved by the British colonial power as a state out of the former Ottoman Empire after World War I.

Faisal was chosen by British colonial officials five months earlier at the Cairo Conference based on advice from T E Lawrence and Gertrude Bell, apparently as a reward to his family for its role in helping the allied powers defeat the Ottomans.

The event was marked as the founding date of the Kingdom of Iraq under a British mandate with partial sovereignty until the country was declared fully independent in 1932.

In other circumstances, the centenary of the founding of modern Iraq next month would have been celebrated as a major national event and an opportune moment to encourage Iraqis to take pride in their recent history.

But no crowds in colourful uniforms are expected to file into Baghdads main squares to celebrate the founding anniversary nor are military brass bands expected to play or choirs sing in the festivities.

The ruling political factions in Iraq have even proposed to declare 3 October as Iraqs national day, marking the day the country was admitted to the League of Nations as an independent state.

As Iraq turns 100 and remains trapped in loopholes, there is a pressing question on many peoples minds: is Iraq a state, and, if so, has it achieved anything as a country that makes its centenary worthy of celebration?

This controversy about the Iraqi state did not originate from its undermining by the sectarian oligarchs who seized the government following the US-led invasion of the country in 2003. Instead, it has its roots in the shaky political structure built by the post-independence elites formed under the British occupation.

Instead of engaging in state and nation-building in Iraq and in spreading democracy, the countrys colonial rulers were more interested in maintaining British power and in fostering a political class subservient to their rule which lost the Iraqis trust in them.

Part of the problem was Faisal himself. He was handpicked as king of Iraq by the British colonial authorities that were reorganising the administration of British Middle Eastern interests after World War I.

Faisal, the third son of Hussein, the Hashemite emir of Mecca, had no family ties or historical roots in Iraq, which had been part of the Ottoman Empire. The Iraqis showed no love for a man they viewed as a British puppet.

It was this British-orchestrated alliance between the newly created elites and the monarchy that was a blatant foreign import. It conceived the autocratic structure of the independent state of Iraq and remained an obstacle to its evolution as a functioning entity.

As it stepped out into the world, the new Iraqi state faced daunting challenges when it appeared that its founding fathers had not bothered much to glue its multi-religious, multi-sectarian and multi-ethnic groups together into a unified national identity.

The key problem was when the British colonial power favoured Iraqs Sunni Muslim Arabs, then about 20 per cent of the population, over the Shia Muslim Arab majority and the ethnic Kurds who had rebelled against British colonial rule.

The political engineering followed by Britain in Iraq not only failed to create a modern democratic state for the nation that the British occupied, but also influenced the post-colonial system and the ruling elites attitudes and behaviour.

The Iraqi stooges and sycophants to whom their British colonial masters handed political power did not opt for democracy, but rather converted the declared constitutional system into an autocracy, sometimes seeming little more than a bunch of family retainers.

Over the next four decades, the political and bureaucratic classes became increasingly corrupt and inefficient and fought to maintain the autocratic state in the face of increasing resistance by many in Iraqi society who struggled for a democratic government to replace the post-colonial order.

In 1958, top Iraqi army officers toppled the monarchy, brutally killed the young king, Faisals grandson, many other members of the former royal family and top political leaders, and replaced the government with one made up of the military coup-makers.

Regardless of the revolutionary and nationalistic expectations it had aroused, the coup undermined the transition to democracy in Iraq and thus acted as political dynamite that torpedoed Iraqs modernisation and democratisation.

Between 1958 and 1968, the country was ruled almost continuously by a factious and disarrayed military caste that created a stagnant political landscape characterised by political volatility and prone to authoritarianism. It was another lost decade in the Iraqis quest to take charge of their own history and carve out a viable state.

The Iraqi Baath Party coup in 1968 was a milestone when the clock of Iraqs political evolution completely stopped and the state began its descent into one-party rule interwoven with an ideological dictatorship. The new regime made pan-Arab nationalism the foremost ideology of the state, thus deepening Iraqs identity crisis.

When the former dictator Saddam Hussein seized power in a palace coup in 1979, the party became a vital tool to instill loyalty to his ruthless authoritarian rule as well as to help control the state apparatus alongside the military and the pervasive security services.

Like in the regime of his Baath Party counterpart in Syria, former Syrian president Hafez Al-Assad, Saddam made efforts to personalise his rule by preparing his two sons Uday and Qusay to succeed him in what many called a Saddam dynasty or a hereditary republic and turning Iraqs political clock back to 1921.

The US war on Iraq in 2003 underlined the fact that more than 80 years after it was founded, the Iraqi state was rotten to the core, as it had failed to repel the foreign invasion and the subsequent occupation, descending into a state of national humiliation.

In reality, the Iraqi soldiers and people did not fight the US invaders because they wanted to rid themselves of Saddam and of the regime that had hijacked the state and turned it into a family enterprise.

The state crumbled because it was too weak and exhausted to withstand the divisions and violence triggered by the invasion, and it is this that has continued to reverberate to the present day.

Related to the centenary of the Iraqi state and whether it is worthy of celebration, the question remains of whether the Iraqis still have faith in their state. It is true that the country has not been sold off or disintegrated, but the question of whether it can weather the present storms remains a matter of speculation.

Looking at the series of socio-political changes that have eroded the cohesion of the Iraqi state, it is hard not to conclude that sectarianism, ethnic affiliation and tribalism have become the norms that have undermined national identity and the states cohesion.

Iraq is also mired in economic failure, inefficiency, corruption and political turmoil caused largely by Iran-backed rogue militias that have undermined the governments sovereignty and set their sights on political power and overtaking the state.

A fundamental factor that underscores the absence of Iraqi sovereignty is Irans increasing influence in the country, turning it into a battleground for a fierce struggle over geopolitical interests and regional influence between the Islamic Republic and the United States.

Today, any euphoria in celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Iraqi state has been replaced by the apathy reflected in the widely used catchphrase of the la dawla, or non-state, used by Iraqis who view their state as one that does not exist.

Across Iraq, a lack of public authority, violence and disorder are the norm, and a diverse mix of individuals, groups, and religious institutions are involved in policing peoples everyday lives and the spaces in which they live.

At best, these non-state actors may still mimic the symbols, materials and duties of the state in an attempt to bolster their own claims to public authority. At worst, the Iraqi state may now have run its course and have run out of the space required to start the process of rebuilding.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 15 July, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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After considerable Western and international pressure, numerous warnings from humanitarian agencies, and a Russian-US summit meeting, Russia refrained from using its veto to prevent the passage of a UN Security Council Resolution to extend the use of the Bab Al-Hawa border crossing to deliver humanitarian aid to Syria for another six months.

The only remaining functioning border crossing between Syria and Turkey, Bab Al-Hawa is the lifeline for more than four million people in northwestern Syria.

Moscow only assented to the extension grudgingly, however. It stipulated that the UN secretary-general would have to submit a report on this mechanism six months from now. At that point, it could once again demand the border crossings closure if it comes up with a strategy to lay siege to the Syrian opposition in northwestern Syria.

The UN welcomed the passage of the resolution, stressing that the extension would make it possible to meet the humanitarian needs of millions of people. The US also expressed relief. Noting how this marked an important point in US-Russian relations, US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said that it shows what we can do with the Russians if we work with them diplomatically on common goals. I look forward to looking for other opportunities to work with the Russians on issues of common interest.

Until recently, Moscow had been adamant on the closure of the crossing, which is essential for the flow of humanitarian relief to areas still outside the Syrian regimes control. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had previously warned that his country would use its veto to prevent the resolution passing, insisting that humanitarian aid should be conveyed into northwestern Syria across the lines of conflict inside the country.

This would mean handing control of the distribution of relief to the Syrian regime, which would almost certainly disadvantage the more than four million Syrians in northwestern Syria of whom 2.6 million were displaced from other parts of the country.

Lavrov maintained that Moscow had documented attempts to prevent the arrival of humanitarian aid sent by the UN and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) via Damascus to northwestern Syria. It accused Ankara and the opposition group Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) of obstructing the relief convoys.

Inhabitants of northwestern Syria and the officials in charge of the relief agencies there say they have received no aid via the regime and that everything the UN sends is confiscated by Damascus and distributed to areas under its control. They denied the claim of Russias Ambassador to the UN Vassily Nebenzia that terrorists had been intercepting the aid.

Over the past two months, the European countries and the US have been urging the extension of the current aid delivery mechanism through Bab Al-Hawa. The subject was on the agenda of the meeting between Lavrov and his US counterpart Antony Blinken in May and of the summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Joe Biden in June.

Many observers had expected an agreement of sorts to emerge from these meetings, especially after Bidens remarks in his press conference following the Geneva meeting on 16 June on the need to preserve and reopen the humanitarian corridors in Syria so that we can get food, just simple food and basic necessities, to people who are starving to death.

Russia knows that the US would have alternatives for delivering aid into the areas controlled by the Syrian opposition if it insisted on shuttering Bab Al-Hawa, Syrian political analyst Said Muqbil told Al-Ahram Weekly.

It sustained the verbal pressure for a while. But in the end, it backed down because the alternative would be US sponsorship and there would be nothing a Russian veto could do about that. It was also clear that Bidens pressure wasnt motivated by the fact he had alternatives, but rather by his desire to test the extent to which Putin would respond to the desires of the new US administration and work with it to forge a new and balanced bilateral relationship.

Some Syrian opposition members believe that Russia only refrained from wielding its veto and assented to the extension of the Bab Al-Hawa mechanism because it had obtained pledges that internal crossings between regime-controlled areas and opposition-controlled areas could be reopened under Russian supervision, a measure that would boost the revival of the economy.

They also believe that Putin obtained promises from Washington that it would reduce US sanctions imposed on Syria under the Caesar Act.

Some 1,000 trucks per month pass through the Bab Al-Hawa crossing carrying food, drinking water and medical supplies to some of the neediest people in war-torn Syria. Humanitarian agencies have warned that closing the crossing could cause hundreds of thousands of deaths, and they have pleaded for depoliticising humanitarian relief.

Most of the inhabitants of northern Syria are dependent on humanitarian aid, a condition that has worsened with the failure of attempts to reach a political solution and to secure international protection against forced displacement.

The Western media believes that Russias insistence on closing down the crossing was an attempt to blackmail many parties in the region and internationally as well as within Syria, Muqbil said. It wants to use the hunger weapon to bring down the rest of the Syrian opposition in northwestern Syria, where HTS and other such groups operate under the supervision of and in close collaboration with Turkey.

Russia wants the Syrian regime to obtain the humanitarian aid so that it can use it to make up for shortages. Moscow wants to pressure Turkey into offering concessions that would widen the gulf between Ankara and Washington. Above all, it wants to tell the US and Europe that Russia is a force to be reckoned with in Syria and the Middle East and that it should have a say in these areas, he added.

The ongoing vaccination campaign against Covid-19 was another crucial reason for keeping the crossing open. According to the US NGO Human Rights Watch, some 55,000 doses of the vaccine were delivered through Bab Al-Hawa in April alone. Closing the crossing would imperil efforts to combat the spread of the virus.

Russia began its blockade of northwestern Syria in 2014 when there were four border crossings with Turkey. Last year, Russia refused to renew the UN mandate for them, leaving only one to continue to the expiration of its term on 10 July. The recently adopted UN Security Council Resolution 2585 barely managed to secure the extension of this mechanism at the last moment.

If a clash over the crossing has been averted for the next six months, there is no guarantee that it will be averted for another six after that when the renewal comes up for a vote again. Russia will then once again resort to the same ploy in order to up the pressure on Turkey, embarrass the US, weaken the Syrian opposition and support the Syrian regime and its rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts.

Closing the crossing in six months or a year will still cause a humanitarian catastrophe unless the international community puts in place a permanent and veto-immune mechanism for delivering humanitarian relief. If a UN Security Council resolution to this effect is not adopted, over four million people in northwestern Syria will continue to have a sword hovering over their heads.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 15 July, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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Egypt and the US have started work on creating a path to jumpstart negotiations between the Palestinians and Israelis in an effort to reinforce calm in the region and defuse the recent rising tensions.

The current regional and international situation is more conducive to progress on this track, especially after the change in government in Israel with the resignation of former prime minister and Likud Party leader Benjamin Netanyahu and the formation of a new cabinet formed of left and centre parties headed by right-wing leader Naftali Bennett.

Another feature of the international situation that is conducive to further talks is the presence of the new US administration in Washington under President Joe Biden.

On Sunday, US State Department Deputy Assistant Secretary for Israeli and Palestinian Affairs Hadi Amr arrived in Israel to discuss issues including the Gaza Strip and moves on the political track with the Palestinians. Amr will visit Ramallah within days to meet with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to discuss the same issues.

According to the Israeli media, Amr is working to realise two aims, the first of which is to prevent the triggering of renewed tensions between Israel and the Palestinian factions in Gaza. He is expected to put pressure on Israel to ease the siege on Gaza since the end of the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip in May.

The second aim is to focus on paving the way for the return of the Israeli government and Palestinian Authority (PA) to the negotiating table and to lead back to the peace process. Peace talks broke down several years ago after Israel took measures that destroyed the foundations of the peace agreement between the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) and Israel.

It also took advantage of Palestinian divisions by claiming that there was no Palestinian partner to work with on the political process. Israel argues that the PA has no representation in the Gaza Strip, which is under the control of Hamas.

Meanwhile, Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukri met with his Israeli counterpart Yair Lapid in Brussels, where he emphasised the importance of jumpstarting the current stalemate between the Palestinians and Israelis in order to relaunch fair and comprehensive talks based on international principles and UN Security Council Resolutions.

This would guarantee the creation of a connected and viable Palestinian state within the borders of 4 June 1967 with East Jerusalem as its capital, he said, and would be one of the main pillars of security and stability in the region.

Shoukri called on the Israeli government not to take measures that could undermine the chances of creating a suitable atmosphere for peace and stability or increase tensions and the possibility of escalation. Egypt has a clear and well-defined position on working on both tracks, in order to prevent the introduction of causes for escalation and forge ahead with the creation of a climate where the two sides can hold negotiations and make life easier for the Palestinian people.

The PA has preceded these efforts with a list of demands that are essential for rebuilding confidence with Israel and eventually the return to negotiations between the two sides. According to a document broadcast by Israels Channel 12 TV, which was not denied by the PA, a list of different Palestinian demands will be sent to the US as a prerequisite for Palestinian participation in the negotiations with Israel.

The document was produced after the PA found out that the US intends to promote an initiative for dialogue between the Palestinians and Israelis as a precondition for a return to the negotiating table by the two sides.

The Palestinian list includes humanitarian and political demands, as well as demands relating to Palestinians living in Israeli cities, most notably the re-opening of Orient House and other Palestinian institutions shut down in 2001 in East Jerusalem.

It also includes restoring previous arrangements at the Al-Aqsa Mosque, scaling down Israeli police activities at the mosque, and preventing raids on the mosque by Israeli settlers.

The demands include an end to the eviction of Palestinians from their homes in Jerusalem, especially in the district of Sheikh Jarrah, and the release of prisoners who should have been set free in 2014 as part of the Oslo Accords signed by the PLO and Israel in 1993 had Israel honoured its commitments.

The list also includes demands for the release of female prisoners, the elderly, minors and the bodies of martyrs.

The PA is demanding an end to the expansion of Israeli settlements, including construction in East Jerusalem, the evacuation of all settlement outposts on the Occupied Palestinian Territories, an end to the demolition of homes in the Jordan Valley and a halt of raids on Palestinian towns.

The demands include issues pertaining to Palestinians living in Israeli cities, such as renewing the process of the reunification of Palestinian families and increasing the number of work permits in Israel.

Regarding the Palestinian security apparatus, the list demands the return of weapons confiscated by Israel from the Palestinian security forces and the return of Palestinian officials and customs officers to the Al-Karameh Bridge, as was the situation after the Oslo Accords. The PA also wants to build an international airport on the West Bank, a free-trade zone near Jericho, and a railway system.

On economic issues, the PA wants to dedicate areas in Zone C (under Palestinian control according to the Oslo Accords), which represents 60 per cent of the West Bank, to factories, power plants and tourist projects. It wants to boost its activities in Zone B (areas under both Palestinian and Israeli control) and amend the Paris Protocol on economic relations to remove tariffs on goods going into the West Bank. It wants to see the upgrading of the cell phone network in the West Bank to 4G.

The Palestinian demands are partly based on the Oslo Accords and partly in reaction to Israels imposition of de facto policies since then. The PA needs these demands to be met in order to convince Palestinian forces of the viability of the peace process with Israel, after years of mistrust between the two sides beginning with the invasion of the West Bank in 2002 and Israeli policies to carry out the Judaisation of East and West Jerusalem.

According to Israeli analysts, the demands, if met, would improve conditions in the Palestinian territories but would be difficult for Bennett, Lapid, Minister of the Interior Ayelet Shaked, and Minister of Justice Gideon Saar to fulfill.

Channel 12 reported that it was clear to the Americans and Palestinians that the incumbent Israeli government would not be able to fulfill most of the demands. It said that the aim was to raise the threshold of the demands, because the PA understood it would likely see very few, if any, of them met.

Despite its urgency, the Palestinian issue is not a priority for Bennetts government, which is facing internal and existential troubles that could result in its demise due to polarisation within the coalition itself. This is a cabinet mostly composed of left and centre parties led by a right-wing figure with support from the party of Mansour Abbas, who represents some of the Palestinians inside Israel. It will need time to harmonise the positions of its key components.

Another challenge due to the composition of the government is the personal rivalry between Bennett and his predecessor Netanyahu, who is convinced that Bennett took advantage of the right-wing to win seats in the Knesset but now leads a government that does not respect the views of the right-wing in Israel.

This has caused Bennett to take up hardline positions, even more than Netanyahu on some issues, in order to maintain right-wing support and appeal to the mood in Israel.

Israel views the Gaza Strip as a more pressing matter because there are Israeli prisoners in Gaza whose families are putting pressure on the government, and the situation in Gaza is linked to the political and security situation in Israel.

There have been intermittent confrontations between Gaza and Israel, as well as international pressure on Israel to end the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. The PA is not present in Gaza and has no real influence there, which makes moving towards peace with the PA a more complicated option for the Israeli government.

The great gap between the Palestinian positions and demands, on the one hand, and what the Israeli government can deliver under the current circumstances, on the other, creates a serious obstacle for any mediation efforts to bring the two sides back to the negotiating table.

Nonetheless, reviving the peace process is a demand that is now supported by the efforts of influential players in the light of the currently bleak prospects for Palestinian-Israeli relations due to the possible collapse of the PA as it faces serious economic and internal challenges.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 15 July, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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Sukuk supply is expected to witness a surge in the second half (2H) of 2021 after experiencing strong growth during 2Q of 2021, backed by strong investor appetite and issuers refinancing and funding diversification needs, according to Fitch Ratings

In its commentary titled Global Sukuk Market Growth to Continue in 2021 and Beyond Global, Fitch said that seasonal patterns will affect quarterly sukuk issuance which, following the summer break, is expected to inch up in the remainder of 2021 and beyond.

The sukuk market experienced robust activity in 2Q of 2021 after a slowdown in 1Q of 2021, driven by the significant issuances from the Saudi Arabian Oil Company (the largest corporate sukuk issued to date) and the Indonesian, Turkish, and Omani sovereigns, according to Fitch.

The growth was driven by issuers aiming to diversify their funding and taking advantage of the low interest-rate environment amid continued fiscal deficits and still-challenging economic conditions. Investor demand remains intact due to new sukuk supply scarcity and the global hunt for yield, Fitch explained.

On global outstanding sukuk, Fitch revealed that it reached $754.1 billion in 2Q of 2021  representing 5 percent higher than 1Q of 2021.

Moreover, sukuk issuance with maturities of more than 18 months from the Gulf Cooperation Council region, Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkey, and Pakistan went up by 136 percent (Q-o-Q) to reach $23.4 billion in 2Q of 2021, with sukuk shares in the total funding mix leaping to 36 percent, according to Fitch.

It also pointed out the volume of outstanding Fitch-rated sukuk, which posted $131 billion, with 80 percent of issues being investment-grade.

Meanwhile, defaulted sukuk volumes remain small at 0.27 percent of gross sukuk issued to date, and include the 2021 sukuk default by PT Garuda Indonesia, according to Fitch.

A number of recent international sukuk issuances contained new clauses and revised terms in the documents to comply with the sharia standards of the Accounting and Auditing Organisation for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI). The changes aim to address the globally sizeable UAE-based sukuk investors, issuers, and arrangers that are subject to AAOIFI compliance rules. These changes have credit implications that could affect issuers liquidity, credit profile and ratings. Further changes may be made in the future to comply with AAOIFI standards, which Fitch will assess, Fitch illustrated.

Egypt is gearing up for issuing its first of its kind Islamic sukuk (bonds) after its related bill secured parliament approval in July.

Previously, Minister of Finance Mohamed Maait said that Egypt is expected to issue $2 billion in the first issuance.

In an exclusive interview published on Ahram Online during June, the global head of Islamic finance at Fitch Ratings Bashar Al-Natoor said that while Islamic finance represents about 82 percent of the total financing operation in Saudi Arabia, 42 percent in Kuwait, and 37 percent in Bahrain, the portion in Egypt doesnt exceed six percent.

He added that the value of Islamic finance ranges between $2.5 trillion and $2.7 trillion globally, covering five key grounds, including Islamic banking  representing 70 to 75 percent of Islamic finance  and Islamic bonds that account for around 15 percent.

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Everyone these days is talking about 2034: A Novel of the Next World War, the latest work of fiction by the well known writer Elliot Ackerman and retired Admiral James Stavridis. It imagines a military confrontation between the US and China that escalates into a world war in the year of the title. Appearing in March, the novel almost instantly became a New York Times Bestseller, which is not surprising at a time of universal turmoil, when various regional and international conflicts could drive the world to the brink of a major confrontation that could spiral out of control, especially given the end of the Pax Americana, the post-World War II order (the term is modelled on Pax Romana and Pax Britannica) in which US economic and military pre-eminence provided for a period of relative international stability. The great political philosopher Francis Fukuyama, who authored the End of History theory, found the novel so compelling that he dedicated a lead article to it in the American Purpose magazine. He felt that, in many ways, the fictional scenario of the next war was more plausible than many political and strategic studies on World War III scenarios.

Ackerman, born in 1980, has many successful novels under his belt. One of the best known is Dark at the Crossing (2017) whose protagonist, Haris Abadi, an Arab American, embarks on a journey of self-discovery and a search for a purpose. This leads him to Turkey and an attempt to cross into Syria to join the fight against the Bashar Al-Assad regime. Ackermans next novel, Waiting for Eden (2018), follows US Marine Corporal Eden who lies in a hospital in the US as the result of lethal burns from a bomb during his second tour in Iraq. The story is a metaphor for the wounds the American sociopolitical body sustained as a result of that war.

Ackerman, the recipient of numerous literary prizes, epitomises a generation shaped by the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq much as his parents generation was shaped by the Vietnam War. As a member of the armed forces, he served in both Afghanistan and Iraq, which helps explain the vivid detail with which he depicts combat and combatants in his fictional works.

The co-author, retired admiral James Stavridis, is also a naval historian and the recipient of numerous US and international decorations. Undoubtedly, he and Ackerman chose 2034 in the title to remind us of 1984, the famous dystopian novel by George Orwell, much as the title Waiting for Eden calls to mind Samuel Becketts Waiting for Godot.

In 2034, China triggers the war with a series of cyberattacks that paralyse US forces in the Pacific and, simultaneously, it helps the Iranians take control of an American F-35, a multipurpose warplane whose electronic surveillance and tracking systems are among the technological assets that give whoever owns them tactical air superiority. After the Iranians force the plane to land and capture the pilot, and the Chinese sink three US warships in the South China Sea, which Beijing regards as territorial waters, the US president is forced to make a choice. Either she can retaliate or she can back down as president John Kennedy did during the Cuban missile crisis with the Soviet Union. But in 2034, the White House did not avert the showdown that Kennedy had avoided in 1962, and the consequence was a major debacle for the US, which lost a major part of its navy. Moreover, China carried out its threat, which we already hear today, to take Taiwan by force on the grounds that it is part of Chinese national territory. This changes that balance of powers in Southeast Asia. The US, having lost much of its conventional forces, resorts to tactical nuclear weapons.

Here may reside one of the most important points of the novels military scenario. It predicts that the next world war could bring into play nuclear weapons or at least the threat of recourse to such weapons. Nevertheless the dominant determinant is cyber technology which China deployed as the weapon that sparked the fictional war in 2034. We are left with the question as to whether China will truly achieve cyber warfare superiority over the US in the 13 years left until the fictional world war Ackerman and Stavridis relate in their novel.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 8 July, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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China had never been remote from the history of our generation. Our political conscience opened with recent memories of the liberal phase in modern Arab history, with its blend of monarchy, the British occupation and the independence struggle. It grew to adulthood in the Arab nationalist era, when the republican order fused with the ongoing fight against colonialism and Israel. At one point in our journey, various versions of socialist thought seemed to take hold of our minds, shaping our political theorising. That is where China entered as a venerable international player. It was the first state to fight colonialism, it supported Palestinian rights and, thirdly, it embodied the regenerative aspect of Marxist theory: Lenin saw the working class as the leader of humanitys march to liberation and progress; Mao Zedong elevated the peasantry to the vanguard. In the 1960s, the annual Cairo Book Fair always featured a separate China wing. You would find stacks of Maos writings, and not least his Red Book, filled with citations and words of wisdom from his speeches and writings.

How much the world has changed since those days. China changed even faster. By the end of the Cold War and the fall of the Soviet Union, even as it stayed its communist course, China seemed more poised to cope with the gales of globalisation than its former socialist colleague and occasional ally in Moscow. Beijing had little need for a Donald Trump in order to assume its place as the other global superpower. It has already begun to shine as an economic giant, the worlds leading exporter, author of the Belt and Road initiative and a pioneer in IT and aerospace technology. After Covid-19 struck, when tensions escalated dangerously between Beijing and Washington, which had accused China of being responsible for the pandemic, observers had legitimate cause to speak of the onset of a new cold war. The truly new factor this time was that Beijing had taken Moscows place in the international power equations. On the other hand, crucial characteristics of the Cold War were missing: the arms race and the proxy wars.

On 1 July 2021, China celebrated the centennial of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC). The occasion served as a reminder that, officially at least, China is still communist, despite the notion that it is a Chinese flavoured socialist country with a social market economy. China is not a torch bearer, in the sense that Rome was a bearer of law, Anglo Saxon culture was a bearer of liberalism and capitalism, or the Soviet Union was the bearer of socialism. China wants to be the Middle Kingdom to which the world comes in search of intermediate goods and high tech manufactures. At the same time, it has no desire to expand beyond the industrial islands in the South China Sea, regardless of the pending mystery as to how to codify its sovereignty over them under international law. How did China get to this point? That complex question requires quite a bit of thought, not just on the part of the country celebrating but also by the rest of the world watching the celebration.

Perhaps this helps explain Washingtons bewilderment with respect to China since Biden took office. In his Interim National Security Strategic Guidance, he describes China as the only competitor potentially capable of combining its economic, diplomatic, military and technological power to mount a sustained challenge to a stable and open international system.

As the international historical tradition has it, communist China was born stripped of Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau. In Middle Eastern political language, these territories were not conceded but rather usurped. Yet Maoist China never went to war for them. Then, when Deng Xiaoping assumed power in 1978, China entered a period of strategic latency in which absolute priority was given to domestic development. After that, Chinese leaders clung to two notions. One was that China was not a developed nation. They continued to maintain that their country was a third world country and that it should be treated as such in international economic forums. Secondly, they insisted that China had no designs to become a superpower. Despite its regional problems, they say, it has continually worked, with considerable forbearance and magnanimity, to resolve these problems peacefully, as was the case with Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan and border issues and disputes over the islands. For those purposes, China accepted two political systems, one based on CPC rule, the other on Western democracy. Until recently, it was rare for China to speak of a regional or international role for itself and Beijing never used its right to veto in the UN Security Council except on issues that concerned it directly. Still, China has certainly benefited from its enormous demographic weight given that it was treated as a poor third world country in world trade systems and obtained an average of around 40 per cent of Western capital investments in the developing world.

It is worth noting that Washington described China as a competitor, signifying that it has the ability to compete with the US in certain fields. So we are speaking here, not of a conflict or a dispute but of a race. Perhaps it is a new kind of race, but all the same, the outcome depends on which side is the most able, the best adapted to the purpose and the most innovative.

China is being pragmatic in its intent to continue working with the current system, which benefits it. It seeks to avert conflict and confrontation, promoting cooperation and exchange that realises a net win for all. On the other hand a recent CPC report registered concern over the current wave of US emphasis on spreading liberal ideas and human rights. It cautions that the US is the greatest foreign challenge to Chinese national security, sovereignty and domestic stability.

A year ago, Netflix featured a documentary on the rise of China over the past four decades. It showed how China, with the aid of Western multinationals, has evolved into an emergent technological powerhouse as the influence of the six free economic zones spread inland. It predicted that by 2025, Chinas GNP would equal that of the USs. Perhaps it is already there. At least when measured in purchasing power parity, Chinese GDP comes to $23 trillion while American is $21 trillion.

The Covid pandemic may have had a negative impact on Chinas reputation as the origin of the virus. However, this was offset by Chinas response to the disease. China was the first country to be hit but was also the first to recover.

The Arab world knows far too little about China. Most of what we do know is reaped from Western and, particularly, US sources. Perhaps it is time we learned Chinese.

The writer is chairman of the board, CEO and director of the Regional Centre for Strategic Studies.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 8 July, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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Negotiations are in progress in New York over a proposed Security Council resolution calling on all parties in the dispute over Ethiopias Grand Renaissance Dam (GERD) to return to the negotiating table. The goal would be to hammer out a binding agreement on the rules for filling and operating the dam. The negotiations would take place under African Union (AU) sponsorship and be attended by key international observers. Egyptian and Sudanese diplomats are shuttling between influential world capitals in order to clarify the Sudanese-Egyptian position and the need for a binding agreement before the dispute reaches a point it can no longer be contained. Perhaps the most significant recent development in this regard was the statement released by the EU Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Commission on 8 July, expressing the EUs disappointment with Ethiopia for having proceeded with the second filling unilaterally and calling for a clear roadmap to ensure that serious negotiations between Cairo, Khartoum and Addis Ababa resume as soon as possible.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukris talks in Brussels were consistent with this and with Egypts desire to break the vicious circle of negotiating rounds with Addis Ababa that lead nowhere. It is not enough just to return to the negotiating table. There have to be genuine guarantees, especially on the technical track, that the talks under AU auspices will not end in failure again. The very fact that the UN Security Council (UNSC) convened to discuss this crisis is proof of how precarious it is, especially after the Ethiopian speech exposed Addis inveterate intransigence and persistent unilateralism. The Ethiopian spokesman made it clear that his government has no desire to consult with or share information with the downstream nations despite the peril GERD poses to Sudan and Egypt both in terms of water supply and the possible structural instability of the dam itself.

The positions of Egypt and Sudan, on the one hand, and Ethiopia, on the other, are so far apart on some crucial issues that third parties are needed to break the impasse between them. The parties most able to do this are the UN, the EU and the US. Egypt and Sudan want a timeframe for the anticipated new round of negotiations and they want the output to be consistent with the rules and principles governing the management of shared watercourses, as this is the best means to achieve sustainable development in all three countries, the fulfillment of their rights, and the sound, equitable and optimal usage of Nile waters. Egypt, which has consistently advocated such principles, has never denied Ethiopias right to develop and to generate electricity. Indeed, Egypt took the lead in submitting proposals for electricity grid linkups.

History tells us that crises of this sort start when the international community ignores the signs they are looming and that they end when the international community acts together to solve them before they escalate into major and extended conflicts. Although many UNSC members are reluctant to embroil that body in water disputes, which is understandable in the context of the intricate and sensitive nature of international relations, Egypt strongly believes that pre-emptive diplomacy is of the essence in order to forestall further deterioration of the situation after Ethiopia initiated the second filling of GERD, in a direct challenge to Cairo and Khartoum, and in defiance of international norms and principles. Ethiopia is not interested in talks that would lead to a binding agreement. It dismisses the notion of a dispute settlement mechanism and it refuses to discuss the dangers of drought and prolonged drought. In short, it places no value on the lives and wellbeing of millions of people in Sudan and Egypt. This type of behaviour can only generate more severe conflict in the near future.

If regional and international peace and security are to be preserved, then the countries that want to address this problem outside of the UNSC must treat Egypt and Sudans concerns seriously. International observers in any negotiating process must prove themselves effective in bridging points of view and imposing a roadmap. This is the only realistic alternative to the UNSC platform, which some fear would be too politically sensitive at this point as it would set a precedent for the international handling of water disputes while others caution that this is precisely the type of issue the UNSC should begin to consider in light of the spectre of mounting conflicts over water resources because of climate change.

The fact is that Ethiopia has already politicised GERD. The government there has capitalised on it for domestic gains and it has set its sights on regional gains, inspired by the unrealistic dream of weaponising water in order to impose its political hegemony over other Nile Basin countries.

International stakeholders in East Africa need to see Addis Ababas designs for what they are and act quickly to promote a roadmap to resolve this crisis.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 8 July, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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Lebanon's Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri steps down, cites 'key differences' with country's president



AP, , Thursday 15 Jul 2021



Hariri cited 'key differences' with country's president Michel Aoun



Lebanon's Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri stepped down Thursday, nine months after he was named to the post by the parliament, citing ``key differences`` with the country's president.



The development is likely to plunge the country further into chaos and uncertainty. Lebanon is going through an unprecedented economic crisis, described by the World Bank as one of the worst in the world in 150 years.



``It is clear that we will not be able to agree with the president,'' Hariri said, after a 20 minute meeting with President Michel Aoun.



Hariri met Wednesday with Aoun after weeks of a stalemate in renewed efforts to resolve the political deadlock and following a quick trip to Cairo, a close ally. He proposed a new 24-minister Cabinet and said he expected a response from Aoun by Thursday. There were reports this was a last-ditch effort by Hariri.



Hariri, 51, resigned from his post in October 2019 in a bow to nationwide protests which had demanded major reforms and condemned the entire political class. A year later, he was named once again to the post by parliament amid a crippling economic crisis and months after the massive Aug. 4 explosion in Beirut's port that compounded the country's woes. More than 200 people died in the blast that defaced the city and injured thousands. An investigation continues into what caused it.



But since Hariri was again named premier-designate, a power struggle has emerged between him on one side and Aoun and his son-in-law, Gebran Bassil, who heads the largest bloc in parliament, on the other. The top leaders locked horns over the shape of the government while the country's economic problems, unfolding since late 2019, worsened.



The disagreement was over who has more clout over the next Cabinet, which would oversee critical reforms and elections. The two sides have since been trading blame over who was responsible for the deadlock.



``I excused myself from forming the government. God help the country,'' Hariri said, before walking away. He is to speak to a local TV station later Thursday.



Regional and international mediation has failed to bridge the differences between the two sides. European Union Foreign policy Chief, Josep Borrell, said during a visit to Lebanon last month that a power struggle and a case of strong mistrust is at the heart of the fight between the political leaders.



It is not clear who would replace Hariri. The country's economic troubles have been made worse by the political bickering. The national currency, pegged to the dollar for nearly 30 years, has been in a free fall, losing more than 90% of its value since late 2019.



Immediately after news broke of Hariri's stepping down, the Lebanese pound hit a new low, selling for 20,000 to the dollar on the black market.



Lebanon's economy has contracted by over 20% in 2020, poverty has deepened with more than 55% of the population living below the poverty line



https://english.ahram.org.eg/News/417276.aspx
Egypt is a critical partner to US in climate action, energy transition: US State Department official



Doaa A.Moneim, , Thursday 15 Jul 2021



Livingston said Egypt has much to gain from the energy transition for its economy and energy sector



Egypt is a critical partner to the US in the efforts to address climate change issues and the energy transition towards green, said David Livingston, senior advisor to the US special presidential envoy for climate at the State Department.



Livingston made his comments during a webinar organised by the US-Egypt Business Council (USEBC) in Washington on Wednesday.



Livingston said Egypt has much to gain from the energy transition for its economy and energy sector, adding that the US has robust relations with Egypt in the field of generating hydrogen power and in power storage.



He pointed out to the priorities that the US working on currently relating to the climate change issue, including getting the US back into the climate action, revealing that the US has doubled its climate finance and tripled its climate adaptation funds as well.



In addition, the US is keen on raising the global ambition on the climate action, with more than 50 percent of the global GDP dedicated to reach zero-carbon goal by 2050.



Meanwhile, Egypts Ambassador to the US Motaz Zahran noted that Egypt has ambitious targets regarding the energy transition, citing Benban Solar Park  the biggest in the world and Egypts plan to be generate 20 percent of its power from renewables.



He added that Egypt targets generating about 42 percent of its power from renewable resources by 2025, stressing that the country is well-positioned to be a regional energy hub because of its location and its variety of energy resources.



Acting Secretary-General of the East Mediterranean Gas Forum (EMGF) and Undersecretary at the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Osama Mobarez said the EMGF is a model for collaboration despite the ongoing challenges globally.



He highlighted the support the US has paid for the forum since its onset in 2019 in line with the energy strategic dialogue launched between the two countries and the forum's effort to gather the government and the private sector.



Egypt redefines the concept of energy to be a catalyst for peace in the region instead of being a purpose of war and conflicts. EMGFs member countries are committed to make the forum a renowned international organisation and to attract international attention. Based on that, a number of leading countries and international institution have become observers to the forum, including the US, EU, and the World Bank, according to Mobarez.



https://english.ahram.org.eg/News/417292.aspx
KYODO NEWS - Jul 15, 2021 - 16:08 | All, Japan, World

The U.S. Marine Corps have held a drill in Japan with orders given in Japanese for the first time, according to the troops, in a move aimed at enhancing their partnership with the Self-Defense Forces.

Although it remains unclear whether the Marines will interact in Japanese in actual operations, the use of the language in a Marine training suggests Washington is attempting to engage Japan's Ground-Self Defense Force in new operations involving remote islands, according to an SDF source.

In a Marine exercise disclosed to Kyodo News on April 29 at an airfield on Ie Island in the southern island prefecture of Okinawa, a reporter of the wire service confirmed that a Marine directed other members in Japanese to move a rocket and fire it while pointing at a spot in the map.

The exercise was part of the Marines' new Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations, or EABO, in which troops practice securing a base for an attack on an island.

"We would very much like to increase our partnership and interoperability," said Capt. Brett Hermanson of the U.S. Marine Corps.

The U.S. Marines said, "They are learning and practicing Japanese phrases that will help them share information at the tactical level on the battlefield with their Japanese counterparts to help us fight together as an integrated force."

Meanwhile, a Japanese government official said the move is believed to be part of an "appeasement policy" under which the Marines aim to involve the GSDF in new operations by showing their pro-Japan attitude.

Even though EABO does not specify any particular places, a U.S. military source said the EABO training "could be tied to the defense of the Senkaku" Islands in the East China Sea, uninhabited areas controlled by Tokyo but claimed by Beijing, who calls them Diaoyu.

The SDF source said whether Marine units deployed to battle areas can ensure a supply route is a key factor in EMBO drills, and the U.S. side wants Japan's GSDF to provide logistical support.

In May, the Marines held a symposium on EABO with the GSDF in Shizuoka Prefecture, central Japan. The U.S. military source expressed willingness to hold more drills in Okinawa with the GSDF.

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KYODO NEWS - Jul 16, 2021 - 13:53 | World, All

Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman will travel to Tokyo next week to hold a trilateral meeting with her Japanese and South Korean counterparts on regional security issues such as North Korea, the U.S. government said Thursday.

The meeting will take place as part of Sherman's weeklong tour to Asia starting Sunday, which will also take her to South Korea and Mongolia. The State Department did not mention whether she will stop by China, as reported by a Hong Kong newspaper a day earlier.

During the trip, the deputy secretary will "reaffirm the U.S. commitment to working with allies and partners to promote peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and to upholding the international rules-based order," the department said in a press release.

In Tokyo, Sherman, Japanese Vice Foreign Minister Takeo Mori and South Korea's First Vice Foreign Minister Choi Jong Kun will meet Wednesday to discuss "trilateral cooperation on pressing shared challenges," the department and the Japanese Foreign Ministry said.

Agenda items for the trilateral meeting include North Korea, climate change and global health issues amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, according to the department.

The U.S. administration of President Joe Biden has attached importance to enhancing cooperation with Washington's two closest allies in Asia, whose bilateral relations have been increasingly fraught over wartime compensation issues.

Separate bilateral talks will also be held on Tuesday, the Japanese ministry said.

In her talks with Japanese officials, Sherman will discuss a range of issues, including climate and global health security, the department said.

In talks with Choi, Mori is expected to discuss bilateral issues related to wartime history. South Korean President Moon Jae In may visit Japan next week for the opening of the Tokyo Olympics.

The United States, meanwhile, has been rallying allies and like-minded countries around the world to counter China's growing military and economic assertiveness.

In Seoul, Sherman will meet with South Korean officials to discuss bilateral and multilateral cooperation on what they call "shared priorities," including the climate crisis, pandemic relief, and post-COVID-19 economic recovery.

From Seoul, the deputy secretary will travel to Ulaanbaatar to meet with Mongolian officials to reinforce their ties and discuss their shared values of democracy and human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, the department said.

On Wednesday, the South China Morning Post said Sherman will visit China next week to meet with her Chinese counterpart Vice Foreign Minister Xie Feng in Tianjin, citing a source who requested anonymity.

The newspaper said the move can be seen as an essential first step toward a potential leadership summit between the United States and China, which, if realized, would be the first since Biden took office in January.
KYODO NEWS - Jul 14, 2021 - 20:24 | World, All

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, at an online meeting with his ASEAN peers on Wednesday, reiterated Washington's position that it will not accept China's unlawful maritime claims in the South China Sea, according to the State Department.

Blinken also expressed deep concern about a military coup that occurred in Myanmar earlier this year, and called for ASEAN to take coordinated action for the cessation of violence and return to civilian rule in the member country.

The remarks came during the first foreign ministers meeting between the United States and the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations under the administration of U.S. President Joe Biden.

High on the agenda were the political crisis in Myanmar, the response to COVID-19 and disputes in the South China Sea, where China and its neighbors have overlapping territorial claims and where it has militarized artificial islands.

Blinken was quoted by an ASEAN source as saying the United States is "seriously concerned by recent developments" in the South China Sea as China's use of its maritime militia to coerce other claimant states has "escalated tensions."

On junta-ruled Myanmar, he pledged that the United States would continue to cooperate with other countries to take strong actions against the military regime until it reverses course, releases political detainees and restores democracy.

ASEAN, he was quoted as saying, "must take immediate action to hold the military accountable to the five-point consensus plan from which the junta has already tried to block and to back away."

ASEAN leaders came up with the plan at a special meeting in April during which they called for an immediate halt to violence in Myanmar and agreed to send a special envoy to the country, but not much progress has been made.

Myanmar's junta-appointed foreign minister, Wunna Maung Lwin, replied to Blinken's remarks by saying that his government is doing its best to implement what was agreed to at the ASEAN summit and that there has been some "relief" in the situation in his country.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said at the meeting, "It is now a critical time where the five-point consensus must be immediately implemented," according to a statement from her ministry.

The envisaged envoy would try to mediate in the dialogue process between various parties in the country, where pro-democracy forces were ousted from power in the Feb. 1 coup, with civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi put under house arrest.

The U.S.-ASEAN meeting also comes amid an increasingly assertive China, with the Biden administration framing the U.S.-China rivalry as a fight between democratic and authoritarian governments.

Blinken was quoted as saying that the United States is not asking anybody to choose between them but instead to promote accountability, especially when it comes to China's human rights abuses, its draconian national security legislation in Hong Kong and what he termed genocide and crimes against humanity in its far-western Xinjiang region.

The United States has been seeking to boost ties with ASEAN in addition to pursuing collaboration among four major democracies in the Indo-Pacific region -- the United States, Japan, Australia and India -- in a grouping known as the Quad.

China, for its part, has provided ASEAN countries with homemade vaccines and held an in-person foreign ministers meeting with ASEAN in the southwestern city of Chongqing in early June.

The virtual U.S.-ASEAN foreign ministers meeting was scheduled to be held on May 25, but it was postponed at the last minute because Blinken, who was heading to the Middle East at the time, could not participate due to a communication failure on the plane he was on.

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KYODO NEWS - Jul 15, 2021 - 20:15 | World, All

A U.S. Air Force aircraft has made a brief, unannounced stop at an airport in central Taipei, Taiwan media reported Thursday, swiftly triggering a backlash from the mainland.

China urges the United States "not to play with fire" and "immediately stop its risky and provocative actions," a Defense Ministry spokesman said in Beijing, adding it will take measures needed to resolutely crush any "Taiwan independence" attempts.

Radio Taiwan International reported Thursday that government officials of Taiwan and the United States have declined to comment on the reason for the U.S. military plane's landing at Songshan Airport in Taipei earlier in the day.

Communist China and democratic Taiwan have been separately governed since they split in 1949 as a result of a civil war. Their relationship has deteriorated since independence-leaning Tsai Ing-wen became Taiwan's president in 2016.

In recent years, fears have been growing that the leadership of President Xi Jinping, which considers self-ruled Taiwan as a renegade province, will try to achieve its cherished goal of reuniting the island with the mainland, by force if necessary.

The defense ministry spokesman said any foreign military aircraft landing on China's territory must obtain the permission of the mainland government.

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KYODO NEWS - Jul 15, 2021 - 13:56 | World, All, Coronavirus

Japanese airlines plan to put on special flights to allow Japanese residents in Indonesia to return home amid a surge of infections of the highly contagious Delta variant of the coronavirus, the Japanese Embassy in Jakarta said Wednesday night.

The embassy has started contacting residents to see if they want to take the Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways flight to return to Japan, it said.

An increasing number of Japanese expatriates and family members in Indonesia are returning home amid the surge and a shortage of hospital beds in Indonesia. But many have found it difficult to reserve flights to Japan.

About 50 expatriates working for Japanese major general contractor Shimizu Corp. and their family members were repatriated Wednesday from Indonesia on a chartered plane.

According to the Japanese Embassy in Jakarta, at least 330 Japanese nationals in Indonesia have contracted the virus as of Wednesday, of which 14 have died.

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New Delhi:

The out of control Chinese space station Tiangong 1 mostly burned up on re-entering the Earth's atmosphere above the South Pacific on April 2, according to Chinese space authorities.

The China Manned Space Engineering Office said that the space lab entered the atmosphere at around 8:15 am Beijing time (05:45 am IST) on Monday.

Launched in 2011 to carry out docking and orbit experiments, Tiangong-1 was part of Chinas ambitious plan to build a manned space station by 2022.

However, the satellite Tiangong 1 went out of control in March 2016 and had been floating in the space since then.

According to the US Joint Force Space Component Command, Tiangong 1 mostly broke up above the South Pacific.

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NW of Tahiti - it managed to miss the 'spacecraft graveyard' which is further south! Astronomer Jonathan McDowell tweeted.

Earlier, the plan was to bring the space lab back to Earth through a controlled final descent and make it land safely somewhere in the worlds oceans, according to the European Space Agency (ESA).

The Chinese space agency struggled to predict where exactly the space lab would crash and wrongly suggested that it would be off Sao Paulo, Brazil.

However, the ESA had predicted that Tiangong-1 would probably break up over water.

The agency had also said that the chances of anyone being hit by the debris of Tiangong-1 were "10 million times smaller than the yearly chance of being hit by lightning". Click Here For More Science News

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Mumbai:

Anil Ambani-led Reliance Group today said it has sent a Rs 1,000 crore defamation notice to Mumbai Congress president Sanjay Nirupam for making "false and baseless" allegations against the company.

The company will also file a contempt petition against Nirupam in the Bombay High Court, it said.

Nirupam had yesterday alleged that the "takeover" of debt-ridden Mumbai power business of Reliance Infrastructure by Adani Transmission Ltd was a deal executed at the behest of the Prime Minister's Office to "bail out" Anil Ambani.

"Nirupam has made several false, frivolous and baseless allegations and defamatory statements in relation to the proposed sale of Reliance Infrastructure's integrated Mumbai power business to Adani Transmission and linking it with the purchase of Rafale fighter aircrafts by the government from France," the company said in a statement here.

The Reliance wants Nirupam to immediately withdraw his allegations and apologise within 72 hours after the receipt of the notice, the statement said.

The company also demanded that Nirupam "desist from making any such statements concerning the Reliance Group without first ascertaining the facts."

RInfra had signed an agreement with Adani Transmission for 100 per cent sale of its Mumbai power business for a total consideration value of Rs 18,800 crore. With the execution of the deal, the company hopes to become debt-free and with up to Rs 3,000 crore cash surplus.

"We fear that the liability of both the companies will be passed on to the 30 lakh power consumers in Mumbai suburbs, 10 lakh of whom are slum dwellers," Nirupam had said yesterday while underlining the need for "transparency" in executing such mega deals.

When contacted today, Nirupam said he was yet to receive any such notice.

He, however, was unfazed, saying he would continue to raise such issues in future too to ensure that the people of the city are not subjected to hardships.

"Does demanding transparency in the deal and seeking proper investigation into it amount to defamation?.. If this is defamation, so be it," the Congress leader said today.

"Instead of threatening me with defamation, the company should address the issues raised by me and ensure 30 lakh elecricity consumers in suburban Mumbai are not put to any hardships of power tariff hike," he said.

He added that he already has a Rs 100 crore defamation suit filed against him in Bombay High Court, which is still pending.

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New Delhi:

The Election Commission of India on Wednesday supported a petition filed at the Supreme Court seeking ban on candidates contesting an election from more than one constituency.

A public interest litigation (PIL) was filed by BJP leader Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay wanting Section 33 (7) of the Representation of Peoples Act that allows a candidate to contest Lok Sabha or Assembly elections from two constituencies simultaneously to be scrapped.

According to the plea filed by Upadhyay, candidates contesting from more than one constituency often leads to a by-poll after a candidate wins from both the seats.

The poll panel in an affidavit said that the commission is of the view that the law should be amended to prevent a person from contesting in more than one seat.

If the legislature is in favour of the provision then an amendment should be made in the law, the affidavit said.

The poll conducting body also cited that viewing the expenditure, time election fatigue and harassment caused to the voters, Section 33(7) of the Representation of Peoples Act should be changed so that one candidate can contest from one constituency.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi contested from Vadodara and Varanasi constituency. He later resigned from Vadodara seat.



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Geneva:

China has launched a World Trade Organisation challenge against Washingtons proposal to slap USD 50 billion in tariffs on Chinese imports over Beijings alleged theft of intellectual property and technology, documents published on Friday showed.

In the text released by the WTO, Chinas delegation requested 'consultations' with Washington "concerning the proposed tariffs (and) measures that the United States accords to certain goods in various sectors including machinery, electronics, etc. originating in China."

A "request for consultations" is the first step in a full-blown legal challenge at the WTOs Dispute Settlement Body. If the United States rejects the request, China will likely renew it, a move that would automatically send the case to formal arbitration, triggering a long legal battle between the worlds top two economies at the WTOs internal court.

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President Donald Trumps administration announced the proposed tariffs last month. While the list of Chinese imports to be targeted has not been finalised and the measures have not yet come into force, Beijing has wasted no time in responding.

It has unveiled plans for painful import duties targeting politically-sensitive US exports, including soybeans, aircraft and autos, to retaliate against the looming tariffs. In its WTO filing, China argued that the measures are 'inconsistent' with multiple articles of international trade law to which the United States has agreed.

Beijing is expected to launch a separate WTO challenge against Washingtons tariffs on steel and aluminium, but the documents, in that case, have not yet been filed with the Geneva-based organisation. Meanwhile, the United States has initiated its own WTO case against China over what Washington describes as Beijings intellectual property breaches, including a failure to respect foreign patent holders.

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Tit-for-tat disputes at the WTO may prove to be just one battleground in a broader trade confrontation between the two powers, with fears rising of an all-out trade war.

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New Delhi:

The Aadhaar scheme was approved by experts and was not open to judicial review as it was a policy decision, the Union government told the Supreme Court on Wednesday.

In a digital era, Aadhaar is the best way to prevent money laundering and deliver subsidies and benefits, the government told the apex court bench which is examining the validity of the scheme. The five-judge bench comprising justices AK Sikri, AM Khanwilkar, DY Chandrachud and Ashok Bhushan is headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra.

"The policy decisions of the government approved by experts are not subject to judicial review," Attorney General KK Venugopal told the bench. He said that development would slow down if there was judicial review of every state action and "courts should not interfere in matters of technical expertise".

On the issue of violation of the doctrine of proportionality, Venugopal said that Aadhaar scheme satisfies the test of proportionality by showing a rational nexus between the means and the goal. All subsidies were part of right to life with dignity and would prevail over the right to privacy, he said, adding the state has a legitimate state interest in rolling out Aadhaar.

Referring to the issue of 16-digit virtual Aadhaar ID, Venugopal said that it is an excellent safety measure. The bench then asked whether it was the onus on the individual to generate and get a virtual ID. As Venugopal replied in affirmative, the bench asked as to whether 1.2 billion citizens can do it and said the Aadhaar may pass the test of "legitimate State interest", but the doctrine of proportionality has to be satisfied.

The bench also said that "biological attributes" are open ended and the authorities may expand and include some more biometric features in the Aadhaar scheme in the future and asked whether it would not amount to "excessive delegation of powers" by Parliament.

According to Venugopal, blood, urine and DNA may be added, but that will be subject to examination by the courts, just like right now the court is examining whether collection of fingerprints and Iris scans are a violation of privacy.

Making a strong point, the bench said the power of UIDAI to decide what is 'biological attributes" and the method of collecting it has to meet the test of proportionality.

According to the Union government, the Aadhaar Act was a "fair and reasonable law" which complied with the tests prescribed by the historic verdict on the right to privacy.

The SC had refused to pass an interim order extending the deadline of March 31 for linking of Aadhaar with the welfare schemes where benefits are transferred to citizens from the Consolidated Fund of India.

The bench is hearing on clutch of petitions challenging the constitutional validity of Aadhaar and its enabling 2016 law.

(With inputs from PTI)

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New Delhi:

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu on Friday launched a scathing attack at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that he is playing with Andhra Pradeshs sentiments.

The Prime Minister is playing with the sentiments of Andhra Pradesh. If he continues doing so Andhra Pradesh will make him disappear from history soon, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief Naidu said during a bicycle rally rally from Venkatayapalem village in Amaravati to the state legislative assembly at Velagapudi.

PM Modi is underestimating the power of Telugu people. The BJP is trying to weaken the state, which will never happen, the chief minister added.

Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi tried to topple the NTR government in 1984. Everybody knows what happened after that. If PM Modi plays with our sentiments. He will have to face the same, Naidu added.

On Friday, not only TDP but the Opposition also stepped up protest against BJP-led central government to demand special category status for Andhra Pradesh and implementation of the promises made in the AP Reorganisation Act-2014.

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New Delhi:

A woman from Finland on Wednesday became nations first transgender man to give birth. The Finnish woman, who went under hormonal therapy has since triggered controversy as the law in Finland require infertility to change gender.

"The baby weighed nearly four kilogramme and was 53 centimetre in length (at birth)," the transgender man, who did not reveal the name to protect family privacy, told media after childs birth.

The 30-year-old legally changed his gender from a woman in 2015 after spending years on testosterone therapy. But he cancelled his sex-change surgery to finish his physical transition to male, before trying to carry a child with his husband.

A person is required to give official evidence of their infertility in order to change legal gender from female to male, according to Finnish law for hormonal therapy.

Finnish medical units in practice mark their transgender patients as infertile, when the testosterone therapy has continued for a long time.

"Do I want the society to dictate what I can do with my body and my life? Nothing can stop me. I'm a free man," the man recalled in an earlier interview with one of Finlands leading daily while still pregnant.

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Among the Nordic countries, Finland is the only remaining country to require infertility to change their legal gender, triggering extreme criticism from human rights organisations.

The man was granted paternal leave.

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Beijing:

The world's top two economies edged towards an all-out trade war as China on Wednesday, rejected the US' demand to cut down trade deficit by $100 billion as "unviable" and announced plans to impose retaliatory tariffs worth $50 billion on 106 American products, including soybeans, cars and small aircraft.

The move comes after President Donald Trump's administration on Tuesday, published a list of about 1,300 Chinese exports worth $50 billion that could be hit by US tariffs because of Beijing's alleged theft of intellectual property and technology.

The Chinese Customs Tariff Commission of the central cabinet, in a retaliatory measure, decided to impose additional tariff of 25 per cent on 106 products under 14 categories worth $50 billion, the Ministry of Finance said in a statement.

Affected products will include a wide variety of agricultural products such as soybeans, corn, beef, orange juice and tobacco. A range of chemicals and automobiles, as well as aircraft with unladen weight between 15 tonnes and 45 tonnes, will also be subject to the tariffs.

However, it did not announce a date for their implementation.

"The date of implementation will depend on when the US government imposes the tariffs on Chinese products," it said.

ALSO READ: First Transgender man gives birth in Finland

The Ministry of Commerce (MOC) in a statement said that the US' move was "an evident violation" of rules of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

The US move "severely infringed on the legitimate rights and interests that China enjoys in accordance with the WTO rules, and threatened China's economic interests and security," the MOC said.

New tariffs China decided to impose on US products were a reaction to the "emergency" caused by the US violation of international obligations, it added. The economies of China and the US are highly complementary, and "cooperation is the only right choice for the two countries," the MOC said.

The MOC said China's decision was taken in retaliation to the US' proposed list of products subjects to additional tariffs, which covers Chinese exports worth USD 50 billion with a suggested tariff rate of 25 per cent.

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The US plans to apply the tariffs to about $50 billion worth of goods to punish China for its alleged theft of trade secrets, including software, patents and other technology.

Trump is demanding China to cut down $375 billion trade deficit by $100 billion in about a month. His move sparked concerns over a trade war between the two largest economies of the world.

China has already slapped tariffs on 128 US products, including wine and pork, totalling to $3 billion in retaliation to Trump's move to impose tariffs on steel and aluminium.

China, which enjoys $375 billion surplus for the first time directly rejected US President Donald Trump's demand to cut down the deficit by USD 100 billion.

"The Chinese government cannot artificially intervene in the number of deficit of surplus. That is not viable," Chinese Vice Commerce Minister Wang Shouwen told media briefing here today when asked about Trump's demand.

"It is unacceptable to ask China alone to cut the deficit by $100 billion as the trade gap is determined by market forces and the overall economic policies and structure of the US."

"We cannot dictate change in trade deficit or surplus. Cutting deficit requires efforts from both the sides. China alone cannot make that happen," he said, adding that the US do not want to sell what China wants to buy.

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"We hope the US can relax the restrictions of export of high-tech products to China," he said. "The US boasts many advantageous industries but is self-restricted in terms of exports to China. Fewer exports resulted in the big trade deficit," Wang said.

"We hope the US will actively respond to China's efforts to expand imports, Wang said, inviting American businesses to attend the first China International Import Expo in November and show their products and services to Chinese consumers.

"We are glad to see that President Trump has eased restrictions on exports of energy products, crude oil and liquefied natural gas to China after taking office, which used to be banned," Wang said, pointing out that such measures will help tackle the trade imbalance. Wang said the trade gap is not as big as the US claims. "Taking into account transit trade and service trade, the real gap is only a third of the figure released by the US government."

According to US Census Bureau data, the trade deficit with China ran to a record $375 billion in 2017. Vice Finance Minister Zhu Guangyao, who also addressed the media, dismissed the idea that political motives were behind China targeting US soybean imports to hurt American farmers to ramp up pressure on Trump.

"Business is business. We should analyse the challenge we face and the way we deal with it from the perspective of the economy," he said. "We are forced to bring forward the product list, and there are grounds for the specific items and their order on the list," Zhu said.

US soybeans sold to China account for 62 per cent of its total soybean exports, with 32.85 million tonnes of soybeans exported to China last year, or 34.4 per cent of China's total imports, Zhu said.

While US farmers can benefit from healthy Sino-US economic ties, the export amount to China was too big, he said.

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New Delhi:

Tamil actor and Makkal Needhi Maiam chief Kamal Haasan on Wednesday trained his guns at the AIADMK-led Tamil Nadu government for the delay in constitution of Cauvery Management Board.

Haasan, while addressing a press conference in Trichy said that the Tamil Nadu government was acting like a subservient government to the Centre rather than upholding the states rights.

We were hopeful that the Supreme Court order would be implemented in toto and the Centre will constitute the CMB within the deadline of six weeks. The court had unequivocally said that no extension will be granted under any grounds. But today, to our dismay we are witnessing a repeat of what happened in 2016, the actor-turned-politician said.

On being asked whether he will participate in the protest called by the film industry on the Cauvery issues, Haasan said that the cine world was his too.

He also denied going soft on the Centre over the Cauvery water issue and said that the move by the central government to seek a clarification from the Supreme Court was motivated politics and taken in wake of the upcoming Assembly elections in Karnataka.

The apex court, in its February 16 verdict had increased Karnataka's water share and reduced Tamil Nadu's per year share to 177.25 TMC.

The top court had given six weeks time to the Centre to formulate a scheme to ensure compliance of its judgement, which modified the Cauvery Water Dispute Tribunal award.

(With inputs from agencies)

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New Delhi:

BJP President Amit Shah on Tuesday assured Other Backward Classes that the Narendra Modi government would ensure passage of the OBC Bill in Parliament despite Congress' opposition to it.

"How much ever the Congress tries to oppose or create an obstacle, the Narendra Modi government at the Centre will pass the OBC Bill in both houses of Parliament.This is our decision and we will see to it that the community gets justice," he said addressing an Other Backward Classes convention here.

Shah said the Congress had created an obstacle in passing the bill in the Rajya Sabha, demanding induction of an OBC representative in the Commission.

He said the Modi government, which believes in the welfare of all communities, had done enough for OBCs.

"We have brought several schemes for all communities, including OBCs. Schemes such as Mudra Bank, Ujwal, Saubhagya and Pradhan Mantri Yojana,among others, have been implemented.

These schemes have reached the beneficiaries," he said.

Under the Mudra scheme, about 50 lakh OBC youth had availed loans of the total of nearly one crore people who had availed of it, he said.

Also, as many as one lakh poor OBC women have been provided gas connections, he added.

Apparently referring to the Siddaramaiah government's move on grant of religious minority tag for the Lingayat community, Shah alleged that Congress was adopting the divide and rule policy of the British and creating a wedge between communities.

On the other hand, the Modi government has been working for the welfare of all communities, including OBCs, with its development agenda of 'Sabka-Saath-Sabka-Vikas,' he said.

In a move weeks before the May 12 assembly polls, the state cabinet recently decided to recommend to the Centre to grant religious minority tag to the politically powerful Lingayats and Veerashaiva Lingayats.

Shah also assured the people that the killers of RSS and BJP workers would be hunted down 'even from the abyss' and imprisoned.

"How much ever Congress makes an effort to protect the killers of RSS and BJP workers, the next government under

Yeddyurappa's stewardship will hunt them down even from the abyss and send them to jail," he said.

Shah was on the fifth round of his campaign in Karnataka, where the assembly polls are scheduled for May 12.

Kaginele in Haveri district in north Karnataka is the birth place of saint, philosopher, composer and social reformer Kanakadasa (1509 to 1609).

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New Delhi:

People of Delhi are not cattles and their lungs already damaged due to the failure of authorities to stop unauthorised constructions in the capital, the Supreme Court said, lashing out at the Centre, the Delhi Government and civic agencies.

The SC said people of Delhi were suffering with problems such as pollution, parking and lack of green areas due to the unending unauthorised constructions.

People of Delhi are suffering. Children are suffering. Our lungs are already damaged. Lungs of our children will also be damaged. Why? Because the Union of India, Delhi government, Delhi Development Authority (DDA), municipal corporations of Delhi (MCDs) say you can do whatever you want but we will not do anything, a bench of justices Madan B Lokur and Deepak Gupta said.

People of Delhi are not cattles ...Everybody has some respect in the society, the bench added.

Pointing out continuous default on the part of authorities since 2006 in this matter, the SC told Additional Solicitor General (ASG) A N S Nadkarni that unless the authorities realise people of Delhi were important, nothing would change.

To which, Nadkarni said that the top court should monitor the situation and the authorities should be asked to perform their duties in a time-bound manner.

The court, however, said: We are not policemen. Why should we do it? Does the Supreme Court has nothing more to do?

When the Supreme Court says something, it is said there is judicial activism and judicial overreach. This is happening. The Government of India can shut its eyes but we cannot. We have the constitutional obligations.

The bench also questioned the government about the protests and dharnas by the traders against the ongoing sealing drive.

The Centre told the bench that there was no doubt that Delhi is in a mess but its intention was to make everything orderly and organised in the national capital.

The ASG, representing the Centre, also said striking down the Delhi Laws (Special Provisions) Act, 2006 and subsequent legislations, which protect unauthorised construction from being sealed, was not a solution to the problem and it was the task of the Delhi government and local bodies to ensure that regulations were adhered to.

Nadkarni said the Centre would hold talks with all the authorities concerned and come out with suggestions so that the problems could be solved. Agreeing to the suggestion, the advocates representing the Delhi government, DDA, the court-appointed monitoring committee said a meeting should be held in the office of the law officer.

"We expect that senior officials, who are in a position to take decision, would participate in the meeting, including the officials from the Delhi government, DDA, MCDs and Ministry of Urban Development and Housing," the bench said.

The bench, which posted the matter for hearing on April 9, also asked the Centre as to what it has done about commercial establishments in residential areas here. The Centre said any commercial establishments in residential areas which were violating law, would have to go.

When the Centre said that the Delhi government and other civic agencies have the power to regulate, the bench said, "You also have the power. You cannot say that you do not have the power and you are powerless. You cannot say so".

The bench clarified that it was not going to touch small traders who were selling essential commodities like milk and bread in the residential areas but the restaurants, which are operating without any fire safety norms in residential areas, and showrooms such as that of cars and clothes would have to go.

It referred to the last year's fire incident in restaurants at Kamala Mills compound in Mumbai, in which several people died, and said that even in Delhi, several restaurants were operating from first floor of the buildings in residential areas that too without any fire safety clearance.

The bench referred to the chequered history of unauthorised constructions and colonies in Delhi and said, "It is a 30-year-old problem. What have you done in these 30 years. The MCD was granting licences left, right and centre without having any concern for anybody."

"There is gross misuse of commercial establishments in residential areas. You have a 30-year explanation to give to the people of Delhi," the bench said, adding, "People of Delhi are not relevant to you."

The SC is hearing the arguments on the validity of the 2006 Act and subsequent legislations which protect unauthorised construction from being sealed.

(With inputs from agencies)
New Delhi:

In yet another case of infiltration in India, Chinese troops on Monday entered 6 km inside Indian border near Lake Pangong in Ladakh, according to the Intelligence report.

The Indian Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has prepared a detailed report about the Chinese infiltration and submitted it to the Home Ministry.

However, this is not the first time that China has made such an intrusive effort to enter in India. The PLA soldiers have been indulging in such un-military-like practices for a long time.

Earlier, China had penetrated 20 times India-China border in last few months.

According to the ITBP report, China intruded on 28 February, 7 March and 12 March 2018 through vehicles near North Pangong Lake.

Moreover, ITBP is also staging protests against this infiltration of China. The Chinese army infiltrated at 3 places near Pangong Lake.

Last year, on August 15, Chinese PLA soldiers invaded the same area of Pangong. However, the Indian troops had foiled the incursion bid of Chinese PLA soldiers along the banks of Pangong lake in Ladakh which reportedly resulted in stone pelting that caused minor injuries to people on both sides.

In 2018 too, Chinese soldiers tried to engage with the ITBP in northern Pangong, which the ITBP had countered.

The Asian rivals have been locked in a serious looking border standoff in Doklam plateau for the last one year and a series of rhetoric full of perils is on from the Chinese side while India has maintained its stand to resolve the issue peacefully.

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New Delhi:

The Public Works Department (PWD) will undertake remodelling of 94 dispensaries of the Delhi government as polyclinics, a pet project of the AAP dispensation.

As per the plan, the PWD will also soon start carrying out expansion and remodelling of around nine government hospitals, in order to increase the bed capacity.

Earlier this week, PWD Engineer-in-Chief Rakesh Kumar Agrawal had held a meeting with officials and discussed the execution of different projects.

"94 Delhi government's dispensaries will be remodelled as polyclinics in various areas of the city," an official said.

At present, around 30 polyclinics are operational in the national capital and the government has set a target of 150 such polyclinics.

According to the PWD, construction of new building and remodelling of existing buildings for expansion of the Acharya Shree Bhikshu government hospital (Motion Nagar) will be carried out.

Among the hospitals where expansion and remodelling works will be undertaken are Dr Hedgewar Aarogya Sansthan, Dada Dev Maternity and Child Hospital,Jag Pravesh Chandra Hospital.
New Delhi:

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Sunday slammed the Congress, Samajwadi Party (SP) and other Opposition parties, and said that they supported violence and disrupted the peace of the country.

Prasad, along with Union Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot and other Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders, was addressing the media at the partys headquarters in Delhi.

Both Prasad and Gehlot spoke on the recent violence complained at the time of Bharat Bandh, which killed at least 11 people, and the aftermath effects of the nationwide shutdown.

Prasad, while addressing the media, criticized the Opposition and said that they are indulging in politics in the name of Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar.

Prasad said, Babasaheb Ambedkar had said that the Dalit movement should neither be violent nor it will happen. The Dalit rights should be empowered, but they it should not be through the path of violence.

Lashing the Opposition of creating ruckus, he added, A large number of people belonging to the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, backward, neglected and poor from all over the country are associated with BJP. Hence, the Opposition is creating ruckus and politics in the name of Dalits.

Also Read: Bharat Bandh has left BJP scared, says BSP chief Mayawati

Our party is working to strengthen the SC/ST Act. This is being opposed by Rahul Gandhi, Prasad said while directly attacking the Congress president.

Union Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot, who was also present in the conference, supported Prasads words and slammed Congress. Gehlot said, The Congress has always tricked the interests of the Dalits. If there is any party favouring the interests of the Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribes and Backward Classes in the country, it is BJP.

Fearing the rising mass support for Modi ji, the Opposition is spreading bitterness, casteism, communalism, and philology in the country.

The press conference comes after BSP chief Mayawati slammed the BJP-led Centre and blamed them for the Bharat Bandh called by the Dalit groups and said that it had scared the party.

Mayawati said, Bharat Bandh protest was largely successful. This has left the BJP scared and authorities in the BJP ruled states have started atrocities towards dalits. Many dalits and members of their families are being arrested. I believe the proud Dalit communities will not forgive the selfish BJP Dalit MPs.

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New Delhi:

Haksar Haveli, the centuries-old heritage building in old Delhi where India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru got married to Kamala Nehru, is on verge of being destroyed by builders for their "financial lust", the Delhi High Court was told on Wednesday.



The issue was brought before the court by advocate M Qayam Ud Din, representing petitioner Kusum Sehgal, who submitted that unauthorised construction was being carried out in the famous heritage property and placed certain photographs of the ongoing construction before the court.



This prompted a bench of Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice C Hari Shankar to order an inspection of the property itself by authorities including the commissioner of North Delhi Municipal Corporation and police officials.



The court, while terming it as an "extremely serious" matter, said "stringent and immediate action is called for" and directed the Delhi Police to ensure that no construction is carried out in the building in violation of law.



The bench sought a report from the corporation to explain how such illegal construction was being done in properties, including two heritage buildings, without any permission and action taken against the officers who have permitted the same and directed the municipal body's commissioner to examine the matter.



Nehru had gone to the Haksar Haveli, situated in the walled city, to marry Kamala, who was residing with her family there, on .



The beauty of Haksar Haveli, which used to host lot of 'mushairas' and musical programmes till a few years ago in Old Delhi's Sitaram Bazar, is being taken away with illegal and unauthorised construction being carried out at the premises, the court was informed.



"One property which is being destroyed is of Indira Gandhi's mother who used to stay here. Even Jawaharlal Nehru had come here to marry Kamala. Builders are destroying this heritage building for their financial lust," the petition said.



Sehgal claimed the property was sold in 1966 to one Khandelwal family which thereafter sold it to some builder who is now carrying out the construction.



The counsel said despite a complaint to the corporation, no action has been taken to prevent destruction of the heritage building. Besides this property, the petitioner has also alleged illegal construction is being carried out in several other properties.



Advocate Anil Aggarwal, who has been appointed amicus curiae in the matter, said such illegal constructions are being completed in a quick but dangerous manner.



The court issued notice to the corporation on the plea, which alleged that no sanction has been taken from NDMC before construction, and listed the matter for further hearing on .

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New Delhi:

As many as 1,580 pilgrims will take part in the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra to China this year, with 500 of them taking the Nathu La pass route, the government said on Wednesday.

The 2018 yatra will be held from June to September through the Lipulekh route in Uttarakhand and the Nathu La route in Sikkim. The Nathu La pass route was shut by the Chinese after the Doklam standoff in 2017.

"There will be 18 batches of 60 yatris each in the Lipulekh route and 10 batches of 50 yatris each in the Nathu La route," Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh said in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha.

In 2017, following the Doklam standoff between the forces of India and China, a total of 392 pilgrims selected for travel to Kailash Mansarovar via the Nathu La route in eight batches were affected, the minister told the House.

China had refused permission to the pilgrims to undertake the yatra from the Nathu La route, saying that it would allow it only if India moved its troops from the Doklam area near Sikkim.

However, the yatra from the Nathu La side has resumed.

In 2015, 999 pilgrims undertook the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. In 2016 and 2017, 983 and 919 pilgrims respectively undertook the pilgrimage.

In response to yet another question on whether China is opposing India's efforts to construct a road and for providing other infrastructure facilities along the China-Tibet border on the Indian side, Singh said the government gives "careful and specific attention" to the improvement of infrastructure for the development of border areas in order to facilitate the economic development of these areas as also to meet India's strategic and security requirements.

"The Government does not allow foreign governments to interfere with government's right to undertake such improvement of infrastructure within India's territory," Singh added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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New Delhi:

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Monday blamed the Narendra Modi-led Centre for filing a delayed review petition against the Supreme Courts verdict on the dilution of the Scheduled Castes and Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 (SC/ST Act), saying that there would be no Bharat Bandh if the petition was filed at an early stage.

Mayawati, while addressing the media over the growing violence in the Bharat Bandh, said, The central government took a lot of time in filing the review petition against the Supreme Court verdict on the SC/ST Act. Had they filed the review petition in time, there wouldnt be any protests or Bharat bandh.

Adding that the minority communities were angry over the top courts decision, she said, The Dalit and Adivasi communities are angry over the Supreme Court judgment on the SC/ST Act. They have been raising this concern but the central government chose to keep mum.

The BSP chief accused the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) of indulging in casteism and caste politics and being anti-Dalits. She said, The Backwards are not getting their Constitutional rights. BJP is always doing politics of caste. The Dalits today are going towards darkness. They are being deprived of promotion in jobs.

Mayawati also condemned the violence created across various states, wherein a total of five people have been killed until now, while clarifying that the BSP has no role in the ongoing violence.

Also Read: LIVE | Bharat Bandh over ST/SC Act: Dalit protests claim four lives in Gwalior; curfew in MP's Morena

She said, The protest is justified. I support it. However, I have got to know that some people are spreading violence during the protests. I strongly condemn this. Our party is not behind the violence. I urge the authorities to initiate strong action against the culprits.

She also slammed the Centre for misusing its powers against the Dalits and the minorities, she said, The Dalits have been campaigning for their rights. Our party will not sit quietly if their voices are not heard.

She termed the process of privatisation of government departments as conspiracy and said, The continuous privatisation of government department is also a conspiracy. BJP doesnt want the Dalits to be promoted. All of this just makes it clear that the Narendra Modi-led government is against Dalits and backwards.

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New Delhi:

Facebook Inc. on Wednesday said that personal data of up to 87 million users was improperly shared with the political consultancy Cambridge Analytica  over 37 million more than previously disclosed by the whistleblower Christopher Wylie.

According to the new figures released by the Facebook's chief technology officer Mike Schroepfer, most of the users whose data were stolen were from the US.

"In total, we believe the Facebook information of up to 87 million people -- mostly in the US -- may have been improperly shared with Cambridge Analytica," Schroepfer said.

Earlier, the whistleblower of the Facebook scandal Christopher Wylie estimated that the data of 50 million users was stolen by the British firm Cambridge Analytica.

A day earlier, Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg had said that the social media major had taken big steps by taking down Russia's Internet Research Agency (IRA) pages that were targeting the US.

Regretting the data breach, Zuckerberg said, "Clearly we should have done more, and we will going forward".

After acknowledging the security lapses, the Facebook chief sought another chance for himself to lead the company.

This a huge mistake. It's my mistake. People make mistakes and learn along the way. Give me another chance," he told reporters during a conference.

"I have not, due to the CA situation, yet. We're still working through this. At the end of the day, this is my responsibility. There have been a bunch of questions about that. I started this place, I run it, I'm responsible for what happens here," he told reporters.

In an election year, Facebook's focus to be on India market

Amid the data breach row, Facebook has deployed technology tools like artificial intelligence and thousands of people to work on security as the company's "major focus" this year is to protect the integrity of upcoming elections in several countries, including India, on its platform, its founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg has said.

Also Read | India warns Facebook of stringent action if it sways electoral process

Terming 2018 a "big year" for elections, Zuckerberg said Facebook was enhancing its security features to prevent trolls from spreading information.

"This is going to be a big year for elections ahead with the US midterms and elections in India, Brazil, Mexico, Pakistan, Hungary and others. This is going to be a major focus for us," he said.

Several Indian states like Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh are scheduled to go for polls this year and the general elections are due in a little over a year from now.

The social media giant has been slammed over a major data breach scandal by Cambridge Analytica, a British firm linked to Donald Trump's presidential campaign.

(With inputs from agencies)

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ATHENS: Tourism is not to blameworthiness for a surge of COVID-19 infections in Greece, the tourism minister said on Wednesday after the government reintroduced restrictions aimed at saving the summer season. The recent surge in Covid-19 in Greece is not linked to the reopening of the country to international visitors in mid-May, Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis said here. "The opening of tourism was done very carefully, in the first 10 days of July just 74 out of 105,609 samples taken at the country's entry points were positive, just 0.07%," Haris Theoharis told a Greek hoteliers conference.

This week, the daily number of confirmed coronavirus cases nationwide surpassed 3,000 for the first time in four months. In June, this figure had dropped below 500 per day, according to reports. Citing experts, the Greek government has attributed the increase to the highly contagious Delta variant, which finds fertile ground among the unvaccinated.

The increase in Covid-19 cases in Greece is not related to tourism," Theoharis on Wednesday stressed at an event dedicated to the future of hotels in Greece, pointing to the results of checks carried out at the country's borders. In the first 10 days of July, only 74 positive cases were detected in 105,609 random samples taken at the borders, ports and airports, he said.

Security Council Extends Mandate of Political Mission in Yemen

The United States is set to begin evacuations of Afghan interpreters

Japan governments Panel proposes record rise in minimum hourly wage
MANILA: The Philippines government will ban all travellers from Indonesia from July 16 to July 31 to curb the spread of the highly infectious coronavirus Delta variant, presidential spokesman Harry Roque said on July 14.

"President Rodrigo Duterte has approved the travel curbs for all travellers coming from Indonesia or those with travel history to Indonesia within the last two weeks preceding arrival in the Philippines," Mr. Roque said in a statement. This action is undertaken to prevent the further spread and community transmission of COVID-19 variants in the Philippines," Roque added.

The inclusion of Indonesia brings to eight the list of countries banned by the Philippines. Travelers from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates are also not allowed to enter the country until July 31. The Philippines has detected the Delta variant in the samples taken from 19 returning Filipinos. No community transmission has been documented so far. According to Philippine Health Ministry, the country now has 1,485,457 confirmed Covid-19 cases, including 26,232 deaths.

Australia has strongly criticised the European Union's proposal to enact a carbon border tax.

Britney Spears can hire own lawyer in conservatorship case, judge rules

Greece: Tourism not contributing to surge of COVID-19 infections, says Minister
The Security Council today extended the mandate of a United Nations political mission overseeing a peace agreement between the Government of Yemen and the Houthi militia in the port city of Hudaydah.

Resolution 2586, which won the unanimous support of the 15-member Council on Wednesday, decides that United Nations Mission to Support the Hudaydah Agreement (UNMHA) will continue to facilitate and coordinate UN support to assist the parties to fully implement the Hodeidah Agreement as set out in the December 2018 Stockholm Agreement between the Yemeni government and Houthi rebels, Xinhua news agency reports.

Under the Stockholm Agreement, the two sides agreed on a cessation of hostilities in Hodeidah governorate and the mutual redeployment of forces from Hodeidah city and the ports of Hodeidah, Salif and Ras Issa. Resolution 2586 decides that UNMHA will oversee the governorate-wide cease-fire, the redeployment of forces, and mine action operations. It requests UN member states, particularly the neighbouring countries, to support the implementation of UNMHA's mandate.

The resolution requests the Secretary-General to report to the Security Council on a monthly basis on progress regarding the implementation of the resolution and to present to the council a further review of UNMHA.

The United States is set to begin evacuations of Afghan interpreters

Japan governments Panel proposes record rise in minimum hourly wage

Swedish rapper Yasin jailed over plot to kidnap rival artist
The United States is set to begin evacuations of Afghan interpreters who assisted US-led forces during the conflict and are deemed to be at risk.

Operation Allies Refuge is set to start during the last week of July, the White House said.

It comes as the US withdraws its forces from Afghanistan ahead of an 11 September deadline set by President Joe Biden.

In recent weeks, the Taliban have made rapid advances across the country.

"These are courageous individuals. We want to make sure we recognise and value the role they've played over the last several years," White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki told a briefing.

The initial evacuation will include about 2,500 people who are likely to be housed in military facilities, either in the US or a third country, while their visa applications are processed.

The Special Immigrant Visa program is offered to those who worked with the US government or the American-led military force during the Afghanistan war that began in 2001.

EXPLAINER: Who are the Taliban?

The threat of retaliation has been heightened as the Taliban make rapid advances across the country, seizing a series of border posts from Afghan forces, including crossings with Iran, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.

Taliban militants were reported on Wednesday to have raised their flag at the key Spin Boldak crossing near Kandahar.

Many fear Afghan security forces will collapse completely under the onslaught, with former US President George W Bush - who was behind the decision to send US troops to the country in 2001 - warning that the consequences of the US withdrawal were likely to be "unbelievably bad".

The Taliban, who controlled Afghanistan from the mid-90s until the US invasion, have been accused of various human rights and cultural abuses.

Japan governments Panel proposes record rise in minimum hourly wage

Swedish rapper Yasin jailed over plot to kidnap rival artist

Spain's top court rules lockdown unconstitutional
New Delhi: Amid the ongoing dispute with the Government of India, microblogging site Twitter has announced that the company is going to shut down the Fleet's feature facility from August 3 next month. This fleet feature was released as testing in South Korea, Italy, and Brazil, including India, last year.

Tell you that this feature was launched globally in November last year. With the help of this feature, users' photos and video posts automatically disappeared after 24 hours. Twitter has decided to discontinue the feature assuming that fleets feature users have not been able to attract much. At the same time, the company has expressed regret for it. Twin Tir has decided to close the Fleets feature for all its users globally, just a few months after it was launched.

Amid reports of the closure of the Fleets feature, Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk have demanded Twitter CEO Jack Dorsi replace the feature with a new feature. Elon Musk looks quite active on Twitter.

Flipkart brings new gift to users, win lots of prizes with correct answers

Twitter takes major action, removes fake accounts with blue ticks

Abhishek Balasara's iphonix Mobile online store Serving customers across the country now
New York, NY - The American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR), a national non-profit organization whose mission is to support and advance healthy aging through biomedical research, is proud to recognize the outstanding contributions of Andrea Gilmore-Bykovskyi, PhD, RN, with the 2021 Terrie Fox Wetle Rising Star Award in Health Services and Aging Research.

This award honors a health services researcher in an early or middle phase of his/her career who has already made important contributions with work that respects the value of multidisciplinary health services science and that is likely to be highly influential in shaping practice and research for decades to come.

Dr. Gilmore-Bykovskyi is the Deputy Director, UW Center for Health Disparities Research (CHDR); Informatics Lead, Care Core, Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center; and an Assistant Professor, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Nursing. She is also Affiliate Faculty, Division of Geriatrics, Health Service Care Research Program, in the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, and UW-Madison College of Engineering.

Dr. Gilmore-Bykovskyi is recognized for her dementia-focused health services research program, investigating social and behavioral communication patterns among individuals with moderate to advanced dementia, and the role of temporally situated observational measures and inclusion of persons with dementia and their caregivers in this line of research. Dr. Gilmore-Bykovskyi is currently leading a large observational study to investigate episodes of lucidity in advanced dementia, as well as considerations for strengthening progress in outcome evaluation among persons living with dementia through multidisciplinary and community-informed health services research.

The award is named in honor of Terrie Fox Wetle, PhD, who has devoted her professional career to three related domains. She has been a tireless advocate for inclusion of aging-related health services research in Public Health. She has lovingly and effectively mentored hundreds of new investigators in a broad array of disciplines. As inaugural Dean, she built a thriving School of Public Health at Brown University, while leading efforts to improve aging-relevant content in public health curricula. Professor Wetle sets an example of visionary leadership, mentoring and administrative excellence. In her honor, AFAR established the Terrie Fox Wetle Rising Star Award in Health Services and Aging Research in 2019.

"The needs of America's growing older population demand innovative health services," notes Stephanie Lederman, EdM, AFAR Executive Director. "The visionary work of Dr. Gilmore-Bykovskyi and Dr. Wetle exemplify applying research to improving the wellness of seniors and communities. AFAR is proud to support the future of health services and aging research with this award."

Nominations for the award are by invitation and are judged by an independent panel of leading aging researchers. The award is a framed citation and carries a cash prize of $5,000.

Dr. Gilmore-Bykovskyi will receive the award and present a lecture at the Annual Meeting of the Gerontological Society of America in November 2021. She will discuss progress in investigating social and behavioral communication patterns among individuals with moderate to advanced dementia, particularly in minority and diverse populations.

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About the Awardee

Dr. Gilmore-Bykovskyi is an Assistant Professor (tenure-track) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW) School of Nursing, Investigator and Informatics Lead of the UW Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (ADRC) Care Research Core, current Paul B. Beeson Scholar, and Affiliate Faculty in the UW School of Medicine & Public Health Division of Geriatrics. Dr. Gilmore-Bykovskyi leads a program of research focused on promoting effective and equitable care and research for persons living with, and at risk for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, particularly among vulnerable and high-risk groups at challenging points in the health and care continuum, such as during acute illness and advanced disease. Dr. Gilmore-Bykovskyi has served as PI on 8 federal/foundation research grants. Many of her contributions have focused on underrepresented and vulnerable populations, and have evaluated structural and care delivery-based barriers to optimal care and health services among persons living with ADRD. Dr. Gilmore-Bykvoskyi has led advances in ADRD health services research that have stewarded new areas of investigation surrounding ADRD-specific care delivery patterns and outcomes; having identified specific caregiver approaches that precipitate or mitigate non-cognitive symptoms (i.e. agitation), established the first electronic health record-based phenotype model for detecting ADRD cases using unstructured clinical data, and led some of the first research describing the specific transitional care needs of ADRD patients following acute illness care. Through efforts to ensure that the benefits of these advances reach all populations, Dr. Gilmore-Bykovskyi has also led formative and seminal efforts to identify barriers to inclusive research and intervene upon and fundamental mechanisms of research participation disparities among underrepresented ADRD populations. Many of these contributions have required integrating multiple complex data sources in novel ways encompassing mixed-methods and qualitative methods, behavioral observation, intervention research, and electronic health record and Medicare data analysis. Dr. Gilmore-Bykovskyi has supervised over 25 students across these studies, many from diverse backgrounds. Across a majority of this work, Dr. Gilmore-Bykovskyi has established new and successful partnerships with a range of clinical and community partners and partnered directly with people living with dementia and caregivers to fully integrate their perspectives into the research process and results. Dr. Gilmore-Bykovskyi has served on regional and national initiatives to address management of symptoms experienced by persons living with dementia, and has received funding from the American Nurses Foundation, the National Hartford Center of Gerontological Nursing Excellence, the National Institute on Aging, and the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities.

About AFAR
According to the World Health Organization, over 340 million children and adolescents (aged 5 to 10 years old) were classified as overweight or obese in 2016, a statistic that has risen from 14% since 1975. Childhood obesity is associated with a wide range of severe health complications and an increased risk of premature onset of illnesses, including diabetes and heart disease. Without intervention, children and young adolescents classified as obese are likely to remain so throughout adolescence and adulthood.

A new study conducted in the United Arab Emirates investigates whether asking early adolescents to evaluate the food choices of peers triggers deliberative thinking that improves their own food selection, even when the peers' food choices are unhealthy. The findings suggest that incorporating evaluations of the healthiness of others' food choices can be a tool to fight unhealthy eating lifestyles. This study is the first to ask early adolescents to evaluate the food choices of "remote peers" (real or fictitious children of the same age who are not physically present). In this instance, the remote peers were fictitious students of the same age identified as coming from another school whose varied (healthy or unhealthy) food choices were shared in writing before the young adolescents participating in the study selected their own food.

The findings were published in a Child Development article, written by researchers at the American University of Sharjah, the University of Granada, Zayed University, University of St. Gallen, New York University Abu Dhabi, Center for Behavioral Institutional Design and the Luxembourg Institute of Socio-Economic Research.

"We initially hypothesized that early adolescents who evaluate the healthiness of food choices of remote peers will make healthier decisions irrespective of the healthiness of the remote peers' choice," said Ernesto Reuben, lead researcher and professor at the Center for Behavioral Institutional Design at New York University Abu Dhabi. "Our second hypothesis suggested that asking young adolescents to evaluate the healthiness of the choices of remote peers will trigger more deliberative decision-making among 6th graders compared to 5th graders, because cognitive development even in the short span of one year may result in greater reliance on reasoned decisions made more slowly and thoughtfully, rather than intuitive decisions that are made impulsively. Growth in reliance on deliberative decision making with age during early adolescence would mean that being asked to evaluate the food choices of a remote peer could have a higher impact on the healthiness of food choices of the older students compared to the younger ones."

Participants included 467 students (54.5% female) in the 5th and 6th grades recruited from three international primary schools in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The sample was predominantly of middle to high socioeconomic status.

The week before the experiment, an email was sent to parents of participating students to inform them that they would not need to bring a snack for one of their school breaks on the day of the study. Participants were presented with four different food trays each with five different food items of similar nutritional value evaluated by a nutritionist at the Burjeel Hospital in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Each adolescent was asked to select four food items from the trays. Before making their own food choices, they were informed about the four food items chose by an unknown remote peer attending a different school who was also participating in the experiment.

In each participating school, different classes were randomly assigned to one of four treatments (variables):

Healthy Peer: the remote peer's food items were all relatively healthy: an apple, a banana, a pear, and water.

Unhealthy Peer: the remote peer's food items were all relatively unhealthy: gummi bears, a lollipop, chips, and chocolate milk.

Healthy Peer with Evaluation: after receiving the information about the remote peer's choices but before choosing their own food, participants had to evaluate the remote peer's decisions in terms of healthiness and explain their evaluation. The peer's choices were the same as in Healthy Peer treatment (apple, banana, pear and water).

Unhealthy Peer with Evaluation: mirrors the Healthy Peer with Evaluation treatment but uses the peer's choices of the Unhealthy Peer treatment (gummi bears, a lollipop, chips and chocolate milk).

Participants were also asked to evaluate the healthiness of the peer's choices as 'very unhealthy,' `unhealthy,' `healthy,' or `very healthy.' Participant's knowledge of the healthiness of the food items was also measured (how they thought parents from their school would rank the different food trays from unhealthiest to healthiest).

The findings indicated that the mere fact of being asked to evaluate the choices of a remote peer led young adolescents to choose significantly healthier food, whether or not the peer's food choice was healthy or unhealthy. In addition, even the small age difference between 5th and 6th graders mattered. Evaluating the peer's choices improved the healthiness of the food choices of 6th graders more than those of 5th graders.

"These findings show that making individuals think more deliberately affects their decision-making--moreover, the stage of their cognitive development matters," said Francisco Lagos, professor of economics at Zayed University and the University of Granada. "The findings also have important public health implications: having a better understanding of how young adolescents develop, evaluate, and subsequently make food choices can help us design effective strategies to improve people's eating habits while they are young."

The authors acknowledge that the adolescents in the study made their decisions without social interaction, whereas food choices are often made by adolescents in social contexts. In addition, study participants were provided popular, familiar healthy food items such as fruit, but not healthy options sometimes considered less attractive, such as green vegetables. Participants were also from relatively affluent and educated families in which adults may be more likely to emphasize the benefits of health eating. The findings are based on specific age cohorts and may not apply to younger adolescents with less capacity for deliberative thinking. Finally, one of the main challenges in improving eating habits is finding effects that last long-term and this study evaluated only short-term effects.

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This research was supported by a grant from the College of Business at Zayed University as part of a project on the Remedies against childhood obesity.

Summarized from Child Development, Early adolescents' food selection after evaluating the healthiness of remote peers' food choices by Cobo-Reyes, R. (American University of Sharjah), Lacomba, J.A. (University of Granada), Lagos, F. (Zayed University and University of Granada), Zenker, C. (University of St. Gallen), Reuben, E. (New York University Abu Dhabi, Center for Behavioral Institutional Design, and the Luxembourg Institute of Socio-Economic Research). Copyright 2021 The Society for Research in Child Development, Inc. All rights reserved.
Workforce

OPM grapples with questions about travel reimbursements for remote workers

Government human resources leaders are planning for the transition out of the pandemic and reviewing policies to facilitate a hybrid workforce long term.

Already, the locality pay system has been raised as a policy area potentially in need of new laws or regulations.

The pay scheme for many government employees is based on the General Schedule. A percentage rate increase supplements the base pay of many feds based on their office location as part of a system called locality pay.

Workers who dont come into the office regularly are classified as remote workers, as opposed to teleworkers, who come into the office at least twice a pay period.

Remote workers official duty station is their home or telework center. For teleworkers, its the location of the agencys physical offices. An employees duty station determines their locality pay.

In addition to locality pay, an increasingly dispersed workforce is also raising questions about travel rules, said Rob Shriver, the associate director of employee services at the Office of Personnel Management, at a July 13 GovExec event.

The question: who pays the bill when remote workers are required to trek to the agencys physical office?

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office had moved to a hybrid model long before the pandemic hit. In March 2020, about 88% of the agencys workforce was teleworking anywhere from one to five days a week, said Danette Campbell, director of the agencys Telework Program Office.

A key best practice learned at USPTO is to sometimes bring remote workers to a central location, depending on business needs, she said.

Certainly not bringing them back simply for the sake of having them all come to one place, but making sure that when they do come back theres an opportunity for extended collaboration, for training, for networking events, she said. Again, we have been operating in this environment for many years now and have deployed this model.

Campbell did not mention any cost restraints that have arisen from this practice, but Shriver said that concerns have been raised to OPM and the General Services Administration about travel rules and remote workers.

Currently, OPM teleworking guidance states that for workers whose official worksite is their telework location, trips to the main worksite qualify as official business subject to travel reimbursement requirements.

If remote workers located outside the locality pay area of their office are required to come in by the agency, the agency must pay the travel costs, Shriver said.

OPM has been hosting working group sessions with stakeholders from in and out of government, including agency chief human capital officers, he said.

Some agencies have raised that as an obstacle to them approving more workers for remote work because of the budgetary impact, he said. Of course, you can see the other side of that story as well - is it fair to put [employees] on the hook for those travel costs? Its tough, because maybe thats a benefit of being a remote worker, is that you get to work from your home, but a cost is [that] on the rare opportunities they need to bring you in, youve got to cover that.

Shriver didnt say what, if any, action OPM will take in terms of travel costs or locality pay.

The pay system was not designed for this world where you may have a significantly higher number of people working remotely than was happening prior to the pandemic, but it does accommodate that, he said. The bottom line is that the policy is there to support remote workers, but there may be some obstacles and disincentives. We are taking a look at that and working with stakeholders to see if there should be some changes.
Workforce

Labor Department seeks funding for staffing surges

The Labor Department wants to staff up to combat shortages across the department, including in worker protection agencies like the Occupational Health and Safety Administration, Secretary Marty Walsh told lawmakers at a July 14 Senate Appropriations subcommittee hearing.

The Biden administrations budget request proposes a 13.5% staffing surge at DOL, which would mean an additional 2,100 full-time-equivalent employees.

The department has around fewer 3,000 employees than it did four years ago, said Walsh.

If we dont have the staff and dont have the employees to protect the workers, then we cant be on the job sites. We cant be checking wage and hours. We cant be making sure people are working in safe conditions, he told lawmakers. Our intention with this investment that were asking for today, and with the intention of the American Rescue Plan, is to staff back up to build back pre-four-years-ago level, but also enhance that.

The Department of Labor isnt the only civilian agency looking at a proposed staffing surge next year.

President Joe Bidens fiscal year 2022 budget request asks for an increase of over 50,000 full-time equivalent civilian employees in the Executive Branch. That increase is not uniform across agencies, though: some cabinet agencies would see decreases in staffing and others, increases.

Worker protection agencies within DOL in particular have lost 14% of their staff over the last four years, Walsh wrote in his testimony.

The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs is one worker protection agency at DOL. It enforces nondiscrimination laws for federal contractors.

It currently has 421 employees, as compared to a high of 755 in fiscal year 2011. Staffing levels have prompted reshuffling of the offices work so that it can maximize  very limited resources, an agency leader told FCW.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, which enforces workplace health and safety standards, has also been severely understaffed, Walsh said.

Certainly wed had a difficult time keeping up with the average volume of business, but when you throw COVID-19 and the atrocities of some of the workplaces in our country with COVID-19, it made it very complicated, he said. We are currently in the process of hiring up and staffing up at OSHA so that we can have more inspectors who can go out to job sites.

An August 2020 DOL Inspector General audit of OSHAs inspection process found that it had severe issues in addressing increased levels of whistleblower complaints during the pandemic. OSHA is charged with enforcing various whistleblower protection laws, such as those that make it illegal for employers to retaliate against workers who report unsafe working conditions, along with other health and safety regulations.

The problem we have with OSHA is that we have seen an increase in cases and weve also seen a decrease in OSHA inspectors, Walsh said. Were seeing increased potential problems and we have fewer people to go out and investigate those problems, so we have a lot of cases that are going kind of unchecked if you will.

DOL wants to double the number of OSHA inspectors by the end of Bidens first term, Walsh said. The Departments budget lists 1,820 FTEs in FY 2020 and proposes 2,250 for FY 2022.

So what were doing here is making sure that we have enough inspectors out there that when an employee calls the office with a complaint, were able to respond to that and not have it sit in a pile, he said.

DOL received $100 million in the American Rescue Plan for OSHA and is requesting an additional $73 million funding increase in its budget request.

The COVID relief funding will help restore the office to levels closer to five years ago, Walsh said, while new funds will enable to office to expand beyond that. Walsh said he wants the office to do more proactive work with businesses, as opposed to compliance.

Unemployment insurance

During the hearing, Walsh also elaborated on the departments plans to deal with a myriad of problems surrounding unemployment insurance, including fraud.

The agency is asking for $100 million in its budget request to develop unemployment insurance technology to deploy in states, which deliver the benefits. Many have antiquated information technology systems that struggled to scale up to meet rising demand during the pandemic.

DOL also received money in the American Rescue Plan to address unemployment insurance.

The agency is starting by sending teams into states to give technical assistance and learn what challenges exist. DOL will also focus on ID verification, technology modernization and grant-giving to states, Walsh said.

The budget request also states that the department will update the funding formula for state workforce agencies, a mechanism state officials have said inhibits tech modernization.
(Adds context, operational data)

By Paula Laier

SAO PAULO, July 15 (Reuters) - Brazilian retailer Magazine Luiza will raise funds through a follow-on share offering and buy technology and e-commerce company Kabum Comercio Eletronico for 2.7 billion reais ($528 million), the company said in a securities filings on Thursday.

The retailer will pay 1 billion reais in cash and 75 million shares in a cash and stock deal, it said in the filing. The deal's value may rise to 3.866 billion reais depending on certain targets being met by Kabum by 2024.

The value is based on the 22.93 reais closing price of Magazine Luiza shares on Wednesday. Closure of the deal is subject to approval by Brazil antitrust watchdog CADE.

Kabum, founded in the city of Limeira, in Sao Paulo state, in 2003, focuses on sales of products related to games.

Magazine Luiza said it would issue 150,000 new shares to fund the acquisition. Based on Wednesday's closing price, the offering, to be priced on July 22, could raise 4.6 billion reais.

Magazine Luiza, one of Brazil's largest retailers, said it will expand the number of stores in the country from 1,440 by the end of this year to 1,680 by 2023. It plans to raise the number of distribution centers to 33 by the end of 2023 from 26 in 2021.

($1 = 5.11 reais) (Reporting by Paula Arend Laier; Editing by David Goodman, Jason Neely and Dan Grebler)
We are in an upward-bound market right now, the S&P is up over 18% so far this year, and its tempting to just sit back and the portfolio appreciate. Returns are solid, and if theyre not as high as they were in 2019, they are more broad-based then they were when tech pulled back earlier this year. Theres a positive feeling in the air.

Its easy to be complacent in an atmosphere like this, but some Wall Street pros believe that now is the time to diversify the portfolio, and shift into multiple income strategies, instead of just banking on the share price gains. In other words, take a long look at dividend stocks.

See: TipRanks Dividend Calculator

Yes, dividend stocks are classic defensive plays, useful for protecting yourself when markets decline, but they work in a bull market, too. While they typically show less volatility than the markets generally  rising less in the bulls, and falling less in the bears  they make up for that with the dividend. A reliable dividend stock will pay out no matter what the market conditions, providing a regular income stream.

Bearing this in mind, we used the TipRanks database to zero-in on two stocks that are showing high dividend yields  at least 7%. Each stock also holds a Strong Buy consensus rating; lets see what makes them so attractive to Wall Streets analysts.

Ready Capital Corporation (RC)

Unsurprisingly, well start with a real estate investment trust. These companies, which buy, own, lease, and manage real properties in the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Ready Capital, based in New York City, deals mainly in commercial properties, as well as real estate loans and mortgage backed securities in the commercial sector. The company also originates new loans, providing financing and servicing for mortgages on commercial and multi-family properties.

The company reported, on June 28, that its 2Q21 business with Freddie Mac, in the small balance loan (SBL) and small multifamily bridge-to-agency businesses increased more than 36% from the first quarter. RC closed on 72 of these Freddie Mac loans, worth a total of $223 million, and had a firm Q3 pipeline of an additional $130 million.

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Also in June, the company declared its Q2 dividend payment. At 42 cents per common share, the declared dividend is the highest since March of 2020 and marks a reversal of the pared back payments implemented during the corona pandemic. The dividend annualizes to $1.68 and yields over 10%.

Covering this stock for BTIG, analyst Tim Hayes takes a bullish view  and the dividend is one reason why.

strong 1Q21 momentum has carried into 2Q21, which should drive very strong results and dividend coverage... Management is confident that it can achieve a 10%-plus ROE even after PPP earnings have run its course, as it continues to take market share in high-ROE, government-sponsored businesses and the broader small balance commercial (SBC) market. As RC continues to scale and increase origination volumes, we expect there could be additional upside to the dividend, which has increased over the past four consecutive quarters and offers the most attractive yield in the sector, Hayes explained.

To this end, Hayes rates RC a Buy along with a $18.50 price target that implies 23% upside from current levels. (To watch Hayes track record, click here)

A look at the Wall Street consensus on Ready Capital shows that Hayes is not alone in his optimism. This stock has received 6 recent reviews, and they break down to 5 Buys and just a single Hold to support the Strong Buy consensus rating. The shares are priced at $15.01 and have an average price target of $16.75, which implies ~11% upside for the next 12 months. (See RC stock analysis on TipRanks)

Enterprise Products Partners (EPD)

From real estate, well shift over to energy, another sector well-known for paying strong dividends. Enterprise Products is a midstream company, working in the transport segment of the energy sector; specifically, Enterprise moves the product from the well head to the refining, storage, or transport points.

Enterprise gathers, treats, processes, transports, and stores natural gas; transports, fractionates, and stores natural gas liquids, and operates NGL import/export terminals; and operates marine transportation assets on the US intracoastal waterway system. The companys operations are centered in Texas and Louisiana, but pipelines, storage, and refining facilities extend into Appalachia, the Midwest, the Rocky Mountains, and the Southeast. Enterprise boasts over 50,000 miles of pipeline in total, along with storage space for 160 million barrels of oil and 14 billion cubic feet of natural gas.

Increased demand for fuel as the COVID restrictions were lifted powered EPDs revenues well past their pre-pandemic levels in the first quarter of this year. Enterprise reported over $9.1 billion in Q1 revenues, up 22% from the year-ago quarter. EPS was 61 cents, higher than the last three quarter, although flat on a yoy basis  and 20% higher than the analyst estimates.

Enterprises cash flow, like the revenues and earnings, were sound. In Q1, the company reported cash flow from operations (CFFO) of $2 billion, matching the yoy number. In the 12 months ending on March 31, the company paid out 68% of its cumulative CFFO in distributions to shareholders, and reported a free cash flow of $3.1 billion for that period.

The companys dividend has been steady for the last two years. The company has a 12-year history of reliable dividend payments, and gradual growth. Earlier this months, Enterprise declared its Q2 payment of 45 cents per common share; at an annualized rate of $1.80, this gives a yield of 7.3%, more than triple the average yield found among S&P-listed stocks.

Top analyst TJ Schultz, rated in the top 2% of Wall Streets stock pros, is impressed by this midstream company, and it shows in his commentary: When there are issues, EPD has opportunities. This was demonstrated in 1Q... EPD beat consensus by 14% due to marketing opportunities induced by Winter Storm Uri. We continue to view EPD as a core MLP holding that can grow distributions through commodity volatility due to its large and diversified asset base.

Getting into details, Schultz adds, the partnership's multi-year organic growth backlog helps provide visibility on long-term distribution growth. EPD has grown and should continue to grow its fee-based cash flows as announced projects enter service and ramp. The large market capitalization relative to the rest of the midstream MLP space should mean easier access to and lower cost of capital and better trading liquidity. We believe the diverse asset base adds stability to the cash flows and is defensive in a softer equity market or energy tape specifically.

In line with this bullish view, Schultz gives EPD a $29 price target, implying a potential upside of ~20% for the next few months. (To watch Schultzs track record, click here)

Once again, were looking at a stock with a Strong Buy analyst consensus  and this time, that consensus, based on 6 reviews, is unanimous. EPD shares have an average price target of $28.83, very similar to Schultzs and also suggesting ~20% one-year upside. (See EPD stock analysis on TipRanks)

To find good ideas for stocks trading at attractive valuations, visit TipRanks Best Stocks to Buy, a newly launched tool that unites all of TipRanks equity insights.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the featured analysts. The content is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment.
While retail investors grew more comfortable buying cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum in 2021, the decentralized application world still has a lot of work to do when it comes to onboarding a mainstream user base.

Phantom is part of a new class of crypto startups looking to build infrastructure that streamlines blockchain-based applications and provides a more user-friendly UX for navigating the crypto world, something that can make the entire space more approachable to a non-developer audience. Users can download the Phantom wallet to their browsers to interact with applications, swap tokens and collect NFTs.

The crypto wallet startup has banked a $9 million Series A round led by Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), with Variant Fund, Jump Capital, DeFi Alliance, Solana Foundation and Garry Tan also participating. The round, which closed earlier this summer, comes as some venture capital firms embrace a crypto future even as volatility continues to envelop the broader market. Last month, a16z announced a whopping 2.2 billion crypto fund, the firm's largest vertical-specific investment vehicle ever.

Image via Phantom

The co-founding team of CEO Brandon Millman, CPO Chris Kalani and CTO Francesco Agosti all come aboard from crypto infrastructure startup 0x.

At the moment, Phantom is best-known among the Solana community, where it has become the go-to wallet for applications on that blockchain. The startup's ambition is to interface with more and more networks, currently building out compatibility with Ethereum and looking to embrace other blockchains, aiming to be a product built for a "multichain world," Millman tells TechCrunch.

Alongside building out support for other networks, Phantom wants to build more sophisticated DeFi mechanisms right into their wallet, allowing users to stake cryptocurrencies and swap more tokens inside the wallet.

The startup says they have some 40,000 users of their existing wallet product.

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Building out a presence on the popular Ethereum blockchain, which already has a handful of popular wallet providers, will be a challenge, but Phantom's broadest challenge is helping a new breed of crypto-curious users interface with a network of apps that still have a long way to go when it comes to being mainstream-friendly.

"The entire space is kind of stuck in this 'built by developers for other developers mode,' " Millman says. "This bar has been kind of stuck there, and no one is really stepping up to push the bar up higher."
TORONTO, July 15, 2021 /CNW/ - Drone Delivery Canada Corp. (TSXV: FLT) (OTCQX: TAKOF) (Frankfurt: A2AMGZ or ABB.F) (the "Company" or "DDC") is pleased to announce that, with the assistance of its sales agent Air Canada (TSX: AC), it has signed a commercial, definitive agreement, effective July 15th, 2021, with the University of British Columbia ("UBC") to deploy DDC's patented drone delivery solution at the Stellat'en First Nation for UBC's 'Remote Communities Drone Transportation Initiative' ("DTI") program.

DRONE DELIVERY CANADA SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH UBC FOR REMOTE COMMUNITIES DRONE TRANSPORTATION INITIATIVE (CNW Group/Drone Delivery Canada Corp.)

The project will enable defined-route deliveries utilizing DDC's Sparrow drone and its DroneSpot takeoff and landing zones as well as additional drone flight infrastructure as required. The solution will be used to transport a variety of cargo for the benefit of the Stellat'en First Nation and the Village of Fraser Lake, located in Central Northern British Columbia, Canada.

DDC is expected to commence deployment of site infrastructure summer of 2021 and expects to begin providing drone delivery services under the agreement in the second half of 2021. The term of the agreement is 12 months. This deployment will be DDC's fourth First Nations project and its first in British Columbia.

All operations will be conducted in accordance with appropriate Canadian regulations. Flights will be remotely monitored by DDC from its Operations Control Centre located in Vaughan, Ontario.

"We're pleased to have finalized our contract with Drone Delivery Canada and to be moving on to the next stage of this project. As we transition into a new phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, and with the risk of wildfires, we are looking forward to learning about how this innovative transportation technology can be used to meet community needs and help address inequities in access to health-care supplies and services," said Dr. Michael Allard, Vice Dean, Health Engagement, UBC Faculty of Medicine."

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"Based on the isolated location of our community and the needs of our residents, drone transport may enhance our access to COVID-19 testing and medication without traveling and endangering other members of our community," said Chief Robert Michell of the Stellat'en First Nation, located about 100 kilometres west of Prince George. "The futuristic potential of this initiative is exciting. With drone technology, there is so much you can do."

"We are pleased to sign this definitive agreement with UBC for their 'Remote Communities Drone Transportation Initiative' at the Stellat'en First Nation. The UBC Faculty of Medicine is a recognized global leader and we applaud their initiative to embrace drone delivery to benefit First Nations communities. We also look forward to working with LifeLabs as an important partner in this project. LifeLabs will be supporting the project to ensure an end-to-end solution by participating in data evaluations, sample logistics and training," said Michael Zahra, President & CEO of DDC. "As an award-winning global leader, DDC is pleased with our continued business successes in the drone delivery industry."

"Improved delivery times of essential supplies to remote locations can make all the difference in protecting the Stellat'en First Nation community and saving lives," said Charles Brown, President and CEO of LifeLabs. "We are proud to be participating in this project that will also help to advance our knowledge for the future use of drone technology to transport clinical materials and samples for lab testing."

Additionally, the Company is pleased to announce that it is working on the next generation Sparrow delivery drone, in response to market demand. The current Sparrow has been successfully implemented at numerous commercial projects and will continue to be commercially available. The next generation Sparrow is already well into development and is expected to have the same range of 30km and payload capability of 4.5kg, along with next generation motor technology, next generation battery technology, touchless cargo drop functionality, an optional public announcement system and an optional aircraft parachute. The new functionality is expected to further address customer demands and evolving regulatory requirements.

The Company expects to reallocate Robin XL engineering resources to focus on completing the next generation Sparrow and Condor development, testing and commercialization as priorities, based on expected market demand in Canada and internationally. The Company will look to complete the Robin XL commercialization as market demands may indicate.

About UBC's Drone Transport Initiative

For more information, please see: https://www.med.ubc.ca/news/ubc-receives-750k-td-ready-challenge-grant-to-deliver-health-care-supplies-by-drone-to-remote-b-c/

About the University of British Columbia

For more information, please see: https://www.ubc.ca

About Stellat'en First Nation

For more information, please see: https://www.stellaten.ca

About LifeLabs

LifeLabs is Canada's leading provider of laboratory diagnostic information and digital health connectivity systems, enabling patients and health care practitioners to diagnose, treat, monitor, and prevent disease. We support 20 million patient visits annually and conduct over 100 million laboratory tests through leading edge technologies and our 6,000 talented and dedicated employees. We are a committed innovator in supporting Canadians to live healthier lives, operating Canada's first commercial genetics lab, and the country's largest online patient portal, with more than 5 million Canadians receiving their results online. LifeLabs is 100% Canadian owned by OMERS Infrastructure, the infrastructure investment manager of one of Canada's largest defined benefit pension plans. Learn more at lifelabs.com .

About Drone Delivery Canada Corp.

Drone Delivery Canada Corp. is an ISO 9001 certified, award-winning drone technology company focused on the design, development, and implementation of its proprietary logistics software platform, using drones. The Company's platform is used as a Software as a Service (SaaS) model for government and corporate organizations globally.

Drone Delivery Canada Corp. is a publicly listed company trading on the TSX.V Exchange under the symbol FLT, on the U.S. OTC QX market under the symbol TAKOF and on the Frankfurt exchange in Germany under the symbol A2AMGZ or ABB.F .

Read more at: www.DroneDeliveryCanada.com or on DDC's social media:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/drone-delivery-canada

https://www.youtube.com/dronedeliverycanada

https://www.facebook.com/dronedeliverycanada

https://www.instagram.com/dronedeliverycanada

https://twitter.com/DroneDeliveryCa

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Notice Regarding Forward Looking Information

Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking information that involves substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Such statements often address expected future business and financial performance, financial condition, and other matters, and often contain words or phrases such as "expect," "may," "can," "believe," "forecast," "estimate," "goal," "target," "will," and other similar expressions, and variations or negatives of these words or phrases. This forward-looking information is subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company, including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, market acceptance, and dependence upon regulatory approvals (both in Canada and internationally). Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward looking information. Except as may be required by applicable securities law, the parties undertake no obligation to update forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

SOURCE Drone Delivery Canada Corp.

Cision

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DUBLIN, July 15, 2021--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The "Egypt Buy Now Pay Later Business and Investment Opportunities (2019-2028) Databook - 75+ KPIs on Buy Now Pay Later Trends by End-Use Sectors, Operational KPIs, Retail Product Dynamics, and Consumer Demographics" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The growth of the e-commerce industry is also providing a boost to the growth of the Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) payment method in Egypt.

According to the Q4 2020 BNPL Survey, BNPL payment in the country is expected to grow by 130.6% on annual basis to reach US$ 182.9 million in 2021.

FinTech company valU partnered with Amazon's subsidiary PayFort in Egypt. The customers of valU in Egypt will have access to 3 - 60 months installment options for their online purchases. The BNPL payment method has also increased retailer sales by 8-13%, depending upon the segment.

Shahry is another BNPL provider in the country that has partnered with different e-commerce websites in the country such as Souq. Consumers can make purchases from different e-commerce players without leaving the Shahry mobile app. This integration allows Shahry to charge their merchants a commission on every purchase made through their mobile application. Within the first year of its operations, the company was able to register more than 15,000 users on its platform and have also raised US$650,000 for expanding its operations.

As the growth of the e-commerce industry continues to rise, an increasing number of people will adopt the BNPL payment method, thus boosting the growth of the digital payment ecosystem in the country.

Medium to long term growth story of BNPL industry in Egypt remains strong. The BNPL payment adoption is expected to grow steadily over the forecast period, recording a CAGR of 36.8% during 2021-2028. The BNPL Gross Merchandise Value in the country will increase from US$ 79.3 million in 2020 to reach US$ 1641.9 million by 2028.

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This report provides a comprehensive view on size and structure, industry dynamics, market trends, consumer attitude and behaviour, and competitive landscape in Buy Now Pay Later industry in Egypt. The report focuses on data-centric analysis of Buy Now Pay Later market dynamics to help companies understand business and investment opportunities along with risks.

It details market opportunities across 40 market segments in Buy Now Pay Later for the period 2019-2028 and identifies opportunities in Egypt. It captures essential KPIs such as Gross Merchandise Value, Volume, and Average Value Per Transaction across end-use segments.

Reasons to Buy

In-depth Understanding of Buy Now Pay Later Market Dynamics: Understand market opportunities and key trends along with forecast (2019-2028). Understand market dynamics through essential KPIs such as Gross Merchandise Value, Volume, and Average Value Per Transaction.

Insights into Opportunity by end-use sectors - Get market dynamics by end-use sectors to assess emerging opportunity across various end-use sectors.

Develop Market Specific Strategies: Identify growth segments and target specific opportunities to formulate BNPL strategy; assess market specific key trends, drivers, and risks in the BNPL industry.

Get Insights into Consumer Attitude and Behaviour: Drawing from proprietary survey results, this report identifies and interprets key Buy Now Pay Later KPIs, including spend by age, gender, and income level.

Scope

Egypt BNPL Market Size and Spending Pattern

Gross Merchandise Value Trend Analysis

Average Value Per Transaction Trend Analysis

Transaction Volume Trend Analysis

Egypt Buy Now Pay Later Spend Analysis by Channel: Market Size and Forecast

Online Channel

POS Channel

Egypt Buy Now Pay Later in Retail Shopping: Market Size and Forecast

Gross Merchandise Value Trend Analysis

Average Value Per Transaction Trend Analysis

Transaction Volume Trend Analysis

Egypt Buy Now Pay Later in Home Improvement: Market Size and Forecast

Gross Merchandise Value Trend Analysis

Average Value Per Transaction Trend Analysis

Transaction Volume Trend Analysis

Egypt Buy Now Pay Later in Leisure & Entertainment: Market Size and Forecast

Gross Merchandise Value Trend Analysis

Average Value Per Transaction Trend Analysis

Transaction Volume Trend Analysis

Egypt Buy Now Pay Later in Healthcare and Wellness: Market Size and Forecast

Gross Merchandise Value Trend Analysis

Average Value Per Transaction Trend Analysis

Transaction Volume Trend Analysis

Egypt Buy Now Pay Later in Education: Market Size and Forecast

Gross Merchandise Value Trend Analysis

Average Value Per Transaction Trend Analysis

Transaction Volume Trend Analysis

Egypt Buy Now Pay Later in Automotive: Market Size and Forecast

Gross Merchandise Value Trend Analysis

Average Value Per Transaction Trend Analysis

Transaction Volume Trend Analysis

Egypt Buy Now Pay Later Analysis by Consumer Attitude and Behaviour

Buy Now Pay Later Sales Uplift by Product Category

Buy Now Pay Later Spend Share by Age Group

Buy Now Pay Later Gross Merchandise Share by Income

Buy Now Pay Later Gross Merchandise Value Share by Gender

Buy Now Pay Later Adoption Rationale Gross Merchandise Value Analysis

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/m22aqx

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005618/en/

Contacts

ResearchAndMarkets.com

Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager

press@researchandmarkets.com

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LONDON, July 15, 2021 /CNW/ -- Plant-based seafood brand Good Catch announces the OurWay food van  treating hungry sandwich lovers to free fish-free subs in a bid to motivate consumers to encourage Subway to go fish-free for good.

Good Catch OurWay recipe cards to make you own #FISHFREEFORGOOD sub at home

With a recent New York Times investigation into Subway tuna sandwiches revealing that no tuna DNA was present in the tuna subs they analysed, Good Catch is on a mission to spread the word about tasty plant-based seafood and prove there is nothing fishy going on when it comes to its 100% fish-free tuna  the only tuna that's truly sustainable.

These headlines also follow the recent airing of Netflix documentary Seaspiracy, which exposed that if we continue to overfish as we are, populations of nearly all seafood face collapse by 2050[1].

The Good Catch OurWay van will tour prime locations in London, UK; New York City and Austin, Texas on Thursday 15th July.

For one day only, the special sandwich vans will offer passers-by free Good Catch plant-based tuna subs, with no catch (or bycatch!). Vegans, vegetarians and meat-eaters are all welcome, the sandwiches are delicious and for everyone to enjoy  with absolutely no traces of tuna DNA, or DNA of any other sea animals, for that matter.

Chad Sarno, Co-Founder at Good Catch notes; "Our mission is to make plant-based seafood that's good for the sea and all life who call it home. Large commercial fishing is one of the most destructive activities in our oceans. We can do better. We're here to offer great tasting seafood alternatives without bycatch, mercury or environmental damage. With the Subway news grabbing headlines across the globe, this is the perfect moment to inform people that there is a better way to enjoy the taste and experience of delicious seafood without harm to our oceans. We want to encourage Subway, and other businesses, to add fish-free options for goodness to all."

Good Catch is a chef-driven innovative food company that makes delicious plant-based seafood without a catch  including plant-based tuna. Its blend of peas, chickpeas, lentils, soy, fava beans and navy beans delivers the rich flavour and delicate texture of seafood.

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For people wanting to join the fish-free mission, they can simply create their own at home and share a picture tagging @goodcatchfoods to encourage @subway to go #FishFreeForGood.

[1] Source: Science Magazine

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1573991/Good_Catch.jpg

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1573990/Good_Catch.jpg

Good Catch OurWay recipe cards to make you own #FISHFREEFORGOOD sub at home

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SOURCE Good Catch

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(Bloomberg) -- Google software engineers reported something in a recent survey that surprised higher-ups: they felt as productive working from home as they did before the pandemic.

Internal research at the Alphabet Inc. unit also showed that employees want more collaboration and social connections at work, according to Brian Welle, a human resources vice president. Welle declined to provide exact figures but said more than 75% of surveyed employees answered this way. Most staff also specifically craved physical proximity when working on new projects.

Theres something about innovative work  when you need that spark, Welle said in an interview. Our employees feel like those moments happen better when theyre together.

Thats partially why, despite the rebound in productivity, the technology giant is sticking with its plan to bring most employees back to offices this fall. As Google deliberates which individual employees will get to continue working full time from home and who will need to come in, some staff are increasingly frustrated by the lack of clear direction and uneven enforcement of the policy. Internal message boards lit up this month when a senior Google executive announced he was going to work from New Zealand. Meanwhile, most lower-level staff are waiting to learn if they can relocate, or have to come into the office.

Googles transition back to office life is being closely watched. The search giant practically invented the luxurious Silicon Valley campus, with its abundant free food, nap pods and other perks. Google is saving around a billion dollars a year on expenses thanks to remote work, yet the company has invested far more on recent real estate expansions in San Jose, California; New York City; and elsewhere. And even Google must contend with personnel unwilling to surrender the comforts or economic benefits of remote work  especially with a white-collar workforce that has had no qualms rebelling against management.

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Workers in many industries have decided to quit their jobs rather than give up virtual work. While some tech companies went fully remote during the pandemic, others that havent, like Apple Inc., have also dealt with staff resisting a return. A new cottage industry sprung up around remote work as smaller cities try to lure rich tech employees from the coasts. Google and Apple have some of the best offices, said Evan Hock, a co-founder of MakeMyMove.com, an online directory for remote work. If theyre dealing with it, its safe to assume that everyone else will be too.

Welle runs Googles People Analytics, a division that tracks staff performance and opinion, and shared findings this week as Google opened its Mountain View headquarters to staff on a voluntary basis. In September, Google will ask most of its workforce to return three days a week. When the pandemic struck, overall measures of productivity quickly plummeted, Welle said. It was only this May that those productivity figures, tracked in self-reported employee surveys, bounced back  a pleasant surprise for Welles division. Google only shared survey figures from its engineers; the company employs thousands of non-engineers as well.

Also in May, the company relaxed its return-to-work policy. Chief Executive Officer Sundar Pichai told staff about a new plan for a hybrid work model  60% of the company would return to their old offices three days a week; a fifth could apply to relocate to other offices; and another fifth could apply to work remotely full-time. Google said it would notify staff of those decisions in August, and the company set up an internal tool for employees to submit and track these requests.

But that messaging, on occasion, has been clumsy.

That latest internal spark set off in June, when Urs Holzle, a powerful executive overseeing Googles technical infrastructure, emailed staff about his plans to move from California to New Zealand for at least a year. For many underlings waiting on approvals to change their work situations, this unexpected news felt flippant and unfair. Under Googles policies, a transfer to cheaper cities can mean a pay cut.

Several employees complained about Holzles decision in text threads and on memegen, the companys internal messaging board. The email was very tone deaf, said Laura de Vesine, a senior engineer who works under Holzle. Obviously theres an enormous double standard.

It was even the subject of a cartoon from Manu Cornet, a veteran Google software engineer with renown inside the company for his comics spoofing its culture. Cornet recently left Google for Twitter Inc.

A Google spokesperson said that Holzles relocation request was approved last year but was delayed because of the pandemic. In his email, Holzle said he would continue to work on California hours. The spokesperson said that Holzle is supportive of remote work and that there will be employees across all levels of his division who will be approved to relocate or work remotely.

Holzle, Googles eighth employee, is known internally for building the teams managing its sprawling data centers and server farms. Im not retiring, just changing my location! Holzle wrote in an email to staff, which was reviewed by Bloomberg News. In an earlier email from May, Holzle had noted that remote employees might be left out of impromptu office conversations where we know collaboration happens. CNET reported earlier on Holzles email and staff reactions.

In internal messages about Holzles move, some frustrated Google staff resurfaced an email from an ex-colleague native to New Zealand. That person wrote that they were leaving the company in April 2020, after being unable to get authorization to work remotely from the country, according to a copy reviewed by Bloomberg News.

Welle declined to comment specifically on Holzle, but said Google will be flexible with certain requests. There is an opportunity for exceptions, he said.

In recent years, Google employees have gone to war with management over a number of issues. Staff have complained that, in response, company brass has put up barriers to communication and made decisions with less transparency. Meanwhile, executives have complained that a more activist employee base has forced them to withhold information.

Google pays lavish salaries to many employees and isnt at risk of a mass exodus over an office return. Still, some are departing. De Vesine, the Google engineer, considered moving from the pricey Bay Area during the pandemic but did not have management sign-off. The uncertainty about what Googles policies will be has left me stuck, she said. And I got tired of waiting. She is planning to leave Google for a remote position at another company. De Vesine said she was not speaking on behalf of the employee labor group, the Alphabet Workers Union, of which she is a member.

Welle stressed that Googles guidelines around remote work may still change. The proportion of employees it expects to return to the office is still an estimate. Google isnt sharing how many employee remote work requests have been approved so far. But Welle called the overall employee reception to the transition positive.

So far, so good, he said. Lets see how it unfolds.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com

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The combined expertise of Liquibox and WestRock results in a pioneering approach to e-commerce packaging, designed for brand differentiation and waste reduction.

RICHMOND, Va., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- With the rise of e-commerce, many brands are experiencing leakages, costly returns and brand reputation damage when trying to force traditional brick-and-mortar liquid packaging formats through the rigors of the online fulfilment supply chain. Liquibox and WestRock, two leaders in sustainable packaging, present a Ships In Own Container (SIOC) bag-in-box solution for Amazon that delights consumers, reduces waste and ensures products arrive undamaged.

Liquibox and WestRock launch an Amazon SIOC bag-in-box solution

The combined expertise of Liquibox and WestRock results in a pioneering approach to e-commerce packaging for liquids.

The combination of Liquibox's first-to-market recycle-ready Liquipure flexible packaging, its wide portfolio of dispensing taps and fitments and WestRock's high impact Meta box designs, means the most optimal e-commerce liquid format is now within reach for beverage, liquid food and home care brands that want to grow in online retail. Through this partnership, customers have access to a turn-key solution to start selling online in no time that covers everything from packaging, service and testing needs to the filling and mandrel case forming equipment.

Bag-in-box is one of the fastest growing segments in the liquid packaging market, expected to reach over 2 billion liters of global volume annually by the year 2024 (source: GlobalData). The new recycle-ready bag-in-box solution designed by Liquibox and WestRock is smaller and lighter than bottles, which minimizes environmental impact by eliminating the need for void fill and overpackaging as well as reducing transportation and storage costs.

Following rigorous performance tests, the new packaging passed ISTA 6-Amazon.com-SIOC test in an Amazon APASS certified lab and therefore does not require additional protective boxes. This not only reduces waste but makes it easy for customers to ship and satisfying for consumers to un-box their product  an ideal solution for online fulfilment.

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"Packaging waste is costly  for the business and for the planet. We're excited to be working with WestRock and Amazon on accelerating change to sustainable e-commerce packaging," says Ken Swanson, Liquibox CEO. "Our new e-commerce-ready bag-in-box is good for the environment, good for consumers, and good for business."

"At WestRock, our vision is to imagine and deliver on the promise of a sustainable future," says Pat Lindner, president of Commercial, Innovation and Sustainability at WestRock. "Innovation is a critical element to achieving a circular economy where packaging sits at the center. We're excited to partner with Liquibox to offer this eco-friendly solution to the liquid packaging market."

Learn more about this disruptive packaging format at liquibox.com/ecommerce.

About Liquibox

Founded in 1961, Liquibox is a global leader in liquid packaging and dispensingworking in partnership with customers to create a safer and more sustainable future. Liquibox is committed to delivering high-quality, innovative flexible packaging solutions that offer reliable product protection. The company is inspiring change around the world, working as one across 19 global locations powered by a dedicated workforce of nearly 1,400 employees. They are headquartered in Richmond, Virginia (USA). For more information, please visit www.liquibox.com and www.linkedin.com/company/liquibox.

About WestRock

WestRock partners with our customers to provide differentiated, sustainable paper and packaging solutions that help them win in the marketplace. WestRock's team members support customers around the world from locations spanning North America, South America, Europe, Asia and Australia. Learn more at westrock.com/sustainability.

Media contacts

Liquibox:

Anastasia Khodakova

Global Marketing Director

akhodakova@liquibox.com

WestRock:

Courtney James, 470-328-6397

Senior Manager, Corporate Communications and Public Relations

courtney.james@westrock.com

Packaging built for selling liquids online

Liquibox and WestRock deliver the ultimate e-commerce packaging

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SOURCE Liquibox
MONTREAL, July 15, 2021 /CNW Telbec/ - Mackagethe luxury outerwear specialisthas appointed New York City fashion veteran Tanya Golesic as Chief Executive Officer.

Tanya Golesic headshot. (CNW Group/Mackage)

Golesica Canadian who has lived and worked in New York for over twenty yearsbrings a rare depth of global high fashion experience to Mackage, underscoring the company's commitment to worldwide growth in the luxury space.

"Tanya's results-driven approach will build brand desirability through innovative digital marketing, focused product assortments and international expansion in key markets. All will serve to accelerate the brand's current trajectory," says Patrick Elfassy, Mackage's Executive Chairman.

Golesic joins Mackage from Jimmy Choo, where she served as President of the Americas for five years. While there, she focused on generating brand heat with various high-visibility collaborationsincluding Jimmy Choo x Off-White and Jimmy Choo x Timberland. Golesic was also a member of the executive team in Jimmy Choo's sale to Capri Holdings, the multi-brand parent company founded by Michael Kors.

Additionally, she formerly served as the Global Chief Commercial Officer at Canada Goose. While there, she helped to recontextualize Canada Goose with product placements and partnerships at luxury fashion brands, including Marc Jacobs, among others. Golesic has also held leadership roles at Marc Jacobs International (LVMH), The Jones Group and Ralph Lauren.

"Mackage has the capability to innovate at the highest levels in terms of fabrications, materials and sustainability, with the distribution and brand recognition to scale significantly," says Golesic. "The company's superior craftsmanship and creativity is the DNA that allows us to authentically hone our global luxury positioning and build out our incredible aspirational narrative."

About Mackage:

Founded by Eran Elfassy in 1999, Mackage specializes in creating luxury outerwear with a careful calibration of elevated aesthetics and high performance functionality. Elfassy launched the company after being inspired by his brothers' experience in the leather industry; two years later, Elisa Dahan joined, and together, they've evolved Mackage into what it is today. The company also retains a focus on best practices when it comes to sustainability and ethics; future initiatives will soon be rolled out. Mackage is sold in over 40 countries worldwide, as well as through its own e-commerce platform at www.mackage.com.

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SOURCE Mackage

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OTTAWA, ON, July 15, 2021 /CNW/ - Long time union leader Sam Hammond of the Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario (ETFO) succeeds Shelley L. Morse as President of the Canadian Teachers' Federation (CTF/FCE).

Sam Hammond CTF President (CNW Group/Canadian Teachers' Federation)

Hammond was elected President-Designate of the CTF/FCE by acclamation at the Federation's 100th Annual General Meeting in 2020. His two-year term begins today.

Hammond is honoured to represent over 300,000 elementary and secondary school teachers from coast to coast to coast.

"I've been actively engaged in the critical work of the CTF/FCE since attending my first annual meeting in July 2004 and have worked tirelessly to solidify ETFO's place in the labour movement," said Hammond. "This has allowed me to forge solid alliances with unions and union leaders across the country. We should be very proud of our individual and collective efforts to protect our members, our fundamental collective bargaining rights and publicly funded public education."

First elected to the ETFO Provincial Executive, Hammond served as Vice-President and First Vice-President before becoming President in 2009. He has served as a President-Designate and Vice-President on the CTF/FCE Executive Committee and has chaired both the Finance and Constitution and Bylaws Committees as well as the Advisory Committee on the Teaching Profession.

A recipient of the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal and Toronto Pflag's Ally Award, Hammond is unconditionally committed to the essential work of the CTF/FCE and has been a member of the Federation's Board of Directors for 12 years. He taught all grades from Junior Kindergarten to grade eight; was an instructor in the Labour Studies Program at McMaster University and taught Collective Bargaining for the CLC and qualifications courses for Brock University.

The following four leaders in public education were elected CTF/FCE Vice-Presidents, serving two-year terms alongside Hammond on the Executive Committee from 2021-2023:

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Clint Johnston, Vice-President (British Columbia Teachers' Federation)

Jenny Regal, Vice-President (The Alberta Teachers' Association)

Paul Wozney, Vice-President (Nova Scotia Teachers' Union)

Heidi Yetman, Vice-President (Quebec Provincial Association of Teachers)

The CTF/FCE Executive Committee also includes outgoing President Shelley L. Morse, in the role of Past President (2021-2022) and Secretary General Cassandra Hallett.

The Canadian Teachers' Federation

Founded in 1920, the Canadian Teachers' Federation is the national voice for the teaching profession. As the national alliance of provincial and territorial teacher organizations, the CTF/FCE represents over 300,000 elementary and secondary school teachers across Canada.

Canadian Teachers' Federation (CNW Group/Canadian Teachers' Federation)

SOURCE Canadian Teachers' Federation

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NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- OUTFRONT Media Inc. (NYSE: OUT) announced today that it will report results for the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2021 after the market closes on Thursday, August 5, 2021. The earnings announcement will be available in the Investor Relations section of the Company's website, www.OUTFRONTmedia.com.

OUTFRONT Media Logo. (PRNewsFoto/OUTFRONT Media Inc.)

The Company will host a conference call to discuss the results on Thursday, August 5, 2021 at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time. The conference call number is 800-458-4121 (U.S. callers) and 323-794-2093 (International callers) and the passcode for both is 5283729.

Live and replay versions of the conference call will be webcast in the Investor Relations section of the Company's website, www.OUTFRONTmedia.com.

About OUTFRONT Media Inc.

OUTFRONT leverages the power of technology, location and creativity to connect brands with consumers outside of their homes through one of the largest and most diverse sets of billboard, transit, and mobile assets in North America. Through its technology platform, OUTFRONT will fundamentally change the ways advertisers engage audiences on-the-go.

Contacts:

Investors

Media Gregory Lundberg

Courtney Richards Senior Vice President, Investor Relations

PR & Events Specialist (212) 297-6441

(646) 876-9404 greg.lundberg@OUTFRONTmedia.com

courtney.richards@OUTFRONTmedia.com

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SOURCE OUTFRONT Media Inc.
Advancing beyond protein targeting to develop novel autophagosome-tethering compounds (ATTECs) to catalyze and selectively enhance the degradation of disease-causing entities through autophagy

Initial focus on a genetic neurodegenerative disorder with potential to treat a range of diseases without current therapeutic options

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- PAQ Therapeutics, a biotechnology company pioneering a new approach to restoring heath and curing disease through autophagy, today announced the completion of its $30 million Series A financing. PAQ's approach and technology expands the therapeutic potential of autophagy - the body's most versatile mechanism for natural cellular degradation  to target not only disease-causing proteins but lipids, pathogens and other substrates with the goal of restoring health. Sherpa Healthcare Partners led the Series A financing with participation from Huagai Capital, MSA Capital, and MRL Ventures Fund, joined by seed investors, Nest.Bio Ventures and Matrix Partners China.

PAQ Therapeutics Logo

PAQ's novel autophagosome-tethering compounds (ATTECs) are small molecules with the potential to selectively catalyze autophagy-dependent degradation of a wide range of disease-causing substrates, including proteins and non-protein substrates, such as aggregates, mitochondria, lipids and pathogens. PAQ is initially focused on a genetic neurodegenerative disorder, with the potential to expand the breakthrough ATTEC platform to target disease-causing protein and non-protein targets for a range of diseases with limited treatment options. The Series A financing will allow the company to advance its ATTEC platform and progress its pipeline programs.

"PAQ's team of global experts are working to hijack the powerful autophagy pathway to directly target and eliminate disease-causing substrates from the body," said Nan Ji, Ph.D., PAQ's Co-founder, President and CEO. "PAQ's ATTEC technology provides a complementary and differentiated platform to targeted protein degradation (TPD), which works through the ubiquitin-proteosome (UPS) pathway. Our autophagy-dependent approach further supports a pivotal moment in the evolution of drug discovery and design by expanding our ability to target the disease-causing substrates beyond proteins underlying diseases with limited or no treatment options."

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Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the global PAQ team collectively brings decades of drug discovery experience and significant expertise in autophagy research. Joining Dr. Ji as co-founders are Huaixiang Hao, PhD, Head of Biology and Professor Boxun Lu of Fudan University in Shanghai, China. PAQ's scientific advisors are distinguished research leaders in autophagy, neuroscience, drug discovery including:

David Rubinsztein, PhD, Professor of Molecular Neurogenetics and a UK Dementia Research Institute Group Leader, University of Cambridge

Jared Rutter, PhD, Distinguished Professor of Biochemistry, Dee Glen and Ida Smith Endowed Chair for Cancer Research, University of Utah

Jin-Quan Yu, PhD, Frank and Bertha Hupp Professor of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute

"Dr. Nan Ji has assembled a strong team of leading autophagy researchers and scientific advisors focused on advancing the ATTEC platform," said Cheng Xing, Managing Partner of Sherpa Healthcare Partners. "We see tremendous potential for autophagy-dependent degradation to achieve major therapeutic innovations leveraging the flexibility of small molecules to create cures and overcome serious diseases where therapeutic options are limited for patients."

About PAQ Therapeutics

PAQ Therapeutics is a biotechnology company pioneering a new approach to restoring heath and curing disease through autophagy, the body's most versatile mechanism for natural cellular degradation. With our ATTEC (autophagosome-tethering compound) technology, we are developing a novel class of small molecule degraders capable of binding a diverse array of substrates to the autophagy pathway. PAQ's research advances are driving an important new class of degradation therapies with the potential to fundamentally transform drug discovery and development and target a range of substrates including proteins, aggregates, lipids, organelles and pathogens.

About Sherpa Healthcare Partners

Sherpa Healthcare Partners ("Sherpa") is a healthcare-focused venture capital fund founded in 2018 by an experienced team of healthcare investment professionals. The team has made over 50 investments in leading companies in key areas such as Pharma, GeneTech, MedTech and Medical services. Sherpa is committed to investing in impactful technologies and supporting the success of aspiring entrepreneurs.

About Nest.Bio Ventures

Nest.Bio is a venture creation and venture capital firm focused on leveraging technological breakthroughs to develop, fund, and commercialize next-generation therapeutics globally. As an active partner in the transformation of revolutionary science into leading healthcare companies, Nest.Bio brings deep scientific, financial, operational and transactional expertise to create an ideal international ecosystem for entrepreneurs, scientists and seasoned executives.

About Matrix Partners China

Matrix Partners China is an early-stage venture capital firm in China founded in 2008. With biopharmaceutical and medical technologies as one of its most dedicated areas, Matrix Partners China is committed to building long-term relationships with driven entrepreneurs and helping them build industry-leading companies.

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SOURCE PAQ Therapeutics
CHANGZHOU, China, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The signing ceremony between Changzhou National Hi-Tech District (CND) and Pelliconi Group was held online on the afternoon of July 5th, 2021. CEO Marco Checchi signed the agreement on behalf of Pelliconi while seated in his office in the firm's Bologna, Italy headquarters.

Deputy director of CND Management Committee Li Hao and director of CND Investment Promotion Bureau Luo Xiaoxia attended the event, accompanied by commercial consul of the Consulate General of Italy in Shanghai Alessandra Palumbo, director of China-Italy Chamber of Commerce (CICC) Suzhou Giacomo Bove and representatives from the consulting firms that helped to facilitate the partnership.

Pelliconi Group signed the investment agreement with Changzhou National Hi-Tech District (PRNewsfoto/Changzhou National Hi-Tech District)

CND continues to promote exchanges and partnerships with Italian companies with a focus on leveraging resources across channels to seek opportunities in different industry fields. CND is quite well-known among Italian companies as one of China's most attractive investment destinations for its strategic geographical location, comprehensive infrastructure, large talent pool and business-friendly environment. So far, 14 enterprises from Italy have set facilities in CND. The signing of the agreement paving the way for the construction of a production plant for high-end packaging materials marks the cooperation achievement between Pelliconi and CND also opens a new chapter for Italian group's continuous expansion in the Chinese market. Pelliconi has long been known for its commitment to embracing change and innovation. The company has built a good reputation worldwide for its high-quality, low-carbon and environmentally-friendly packaging materials. With its mature business concept and advanced manufacturing technologies, Pelliconi expects to accelerate its growth with the new Changzhou facility and the revenue that the facility is expected to generate for the group's global operations. The signing of the agreement also represents a milestone for CND with the vitality that the facility will inject into the high quality development. CND will provide more high-quality, convenient and efficient service for the project and ensure the smooth construction of the project and the early completion of the project.

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About Changzhou National Hi-Tech District (CND)

Changzhou National Hi-Tech District (CND) is located in the heart of the Yangtze River Delta. There are more than 1,800 foreign-invested companies in CND. Related link: http://cznd.changzhou.gov.cn/

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SOURCE Changzhou National Hi-Tech District
TORONTO, July 15, 2021 /CNW/ - Together, Ontarians have faced some of the toughest obstacles of this pandemic. But our work is not over. The Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO) has launched a new #FullyVaccinated social media campaign to encourage everyone to receive both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, and is calling for mandatory vaccination for health-care workers in contact with patients.

So far, 69 per cent of Ontarians over 12 years old have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, while only 50 per cent have received their second dose. Ontario must continue to keep the momentum going until all who are eligible to receive the vaccine get both doses.

"Ontario, Canada and many places around the world are facing highly contagious COVID-19 variants. The best defence to beat this virus is to get vaccinated and encourage everyone around you to receive both doses of the vaccine," says RNAO President Morgan Hoffarth. "We call on all Ontarians, Canadians and everyone around the world to join us in our #FullyVaccinated social media campaign to stop the spread of COVID-19 once and for all."

In addition to the #FullyVaccinated campaign, RNAO is also calling for the Ontario government to mandate COVID-19 vaccination for all health-care workers, especially those working directly with patients.

To increase vaccination rates, the provincial government must make it easier and faster for health-care workers to get fully vaccinated by:

bringing vaccinations to workplaces

providing an additional two paid sick days for workers to be vaccinated

"As nurses, we are trusted health-care leaders for evidence-based practice. We advocate for patients' physical, mental and emotional needs. To ensure patients are receiving the best quality care possible, we call on all nurses to get two doses and become role models for other health-care workers," says RNAO CEO Dr. Doris Grinspun.

"Marginalized communities and individuals have been a prime target for COVID-19 and even now, they are struggling to access the vaccine. The Ontario government must bring vaccines to workplaces and add an additional two paid sick days (one per dose) to keep the province on the right track," says Grinspun.

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What: #FullyVaccinated is a social media campaign to encourage all eligible Ontarians to receive both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

How to participate: Tag @RNAO in your photos on Twitter or @registerednurses on Instagram of you and your loved ones before, during or after receiving your COVID-19 vaccine. Include the hashtag #FullyVaccinated along with your reason for receiving the vaccine. Participants have a chance to be featured in RNAO's fully vaccinated hall of fame on social media. Also, see our website for #Fullyvaccinated images to share on social media and use as your Twitter banner and email signature.

The Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO) is the professional association representing registered nurses, nurse practitioners, and nursing students in Ontario. Since 1925, RNAO has advocated for healthy public policy, promoted excellence in nursing practice, increased nurses' contribution to shaping the health system, and influenced decisions that affect nurses and the public they serve. For more information about RNAO, visit RNAO.ca or follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

SOURCE Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario

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TORONTO, July 15, 2021 /CNW/ - Royal Bank of Canada (TSX: RY) (NYSE: RY) today announced the successful completion of a 5-year US$750 million Green Bond offering.

RBC (CNW Group/Royal Bank of Canada)

The transaction is RBC's second Green Bond offering, following its inaugural EUR500 million 5-year Green Bond in 2019. Importantly, it represents RBC's first issuance through its Sustainable Bond Framework which was launched in 2020 as part of the bank's commitments to advancing its sustainable finance and environmental, social and governance (ESG) leadership.

The proceeds will finance or refinance a portfolio of assets primarily in the categories of renewable energy, green buildings, sustainable land use and clean transportation.

RBC Capital Markets LLC, Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, ING Financial Markets LLC, and NatWest Markets Securities Inc. served as joint bookrunners on the deal. Academy Securities Inc., Samuel A. Ramirez & Company, Inc., R Seelaus & Co., LLC, and Siebert Williams Shank & Co., LLC served as joint lead managers and represent broker dealers owned and/or operated by leaders across underrepresented groups, including people of color, women, and service-disabled veterans. The engagement of these diverse broker dealers in the transaction elevated the offering, facilitating allocations into unique pockets of demand and further enhancing distribution.

"Our second Green Bond is another important step forward in advancing our Purpose-driven approach to accelerating the transition to a net zero economy and in supporting projects and organizations that share in our goal of contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive future," said Lindsay Patrick, Head, Strategic Initiatives & ESG, RBC Capital Markets. "We have long believed that capital can be a positive force for change. Partnering with a diverse syndicate of underwriters and issuing in the U.S., RBC's second home market, further diversifies our Green Bond investor base as we seek to create long-term, sustainable value for our clients, communities, employees, and shareholders."

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In February 2021, RBC announced progress and bolder goals through its Climate Blueprint with an increased commitment to mobilize $500 billion in sustainable finance by 2025, following the 2020 achievement of its initial $100 billion commitment. RBC also committed to net-zero emissions in its lending by 2050, aligned with the global goals of the Paris Agreement. More details can be found through a series of recent reports which together demonstrate RBC's accelerated commitments to helping clients thrive and communities prosper:

2020 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Performance Report offers insights into overarching strategies, new and continuing commitments, and performance related to relevant ESG topics.

2020 Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) Report highlights progress in implementing the recommendations of the TCFD to disclose the risks and opportunities associated with climate change.

2020 Green Bond Report provides investors with updates regarding RBC's EUR500 million 5-year Green Bond offering from 2019, including: details on its Green Bond Asset Portfolio; the allocation of proceeds to that Portfolio; and, the associated environmental impacts.

RBC has long-established environmental leadership, dating back to 1991, when it launched its first corporate environmental policy. In 2017, RBC was the first Canadian bank to publish a TCFD aligned disclosure outlining the steps it was taking to manage climate risks and opportunities, and describing the organization's ongoing commitment to climate-related disclosures.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the Green Bonds or any other securities, nor shall there be any sale of the green bonds in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

ABOUT RBC

Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 86,000+ employees who leverage their imaginations and insights to bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada's biggest bank, and one of the largest in the world based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our 17 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 27 other countries. Learn more at rbc.com.

We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/community-social-impact.

SOURCE Royal Bank of Canada

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DUBLIN, July 15, 2021--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The "South East Asia Tire Market, By Vehicle Type, By Demand Category, By Radial vs. Bias, By Rim Size, By Tire Type, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2016-2026" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The South East Asian Tire Market was valued USD9.54 Billion in 2020 and is forecast to grow at CAGR of 6.32% in the next five years.

Based on consumer spending behaviour across the South East Asian countries, consumers mostly prefer two-wheelers for their daily commuting purpose. Due to this, the sales of two-wheelers are increasing at a brisk pace which is fuelling the automotive fleet which in turn is boosting the demand for automotive replacement tires.

In addition to that, major automotive manufacturers are increasing the production of vehicles, especially two-wheelers across the region which is directly generating the demand for OEM tires across the region. Moreover, construction and mining activities in this region are continuously increasing and hence demand for commercial vehicles and OTR vehicles is generously increasing which is susceptible to drive the market of automotive tires in the forecast period.

The Indian Sports Apparel Market is classified based on vehicle type, demand category, radial vs bias, tire type, rim size, country, and company. On the basis of vehicle type, the South East Asian Tire Market is segmented into passenger car, light commercial vehicle, medium & heavy commercial vehicle, two-wheeler, three-wheeler and OTR.

In terms of demand category, most of the tire sales are constituted by replacement tires. Due to greater replacement needs for fleet vehicles in the region, majority of tire sales are contributed by replacement tires. Based on technology, market is segmented into radial tires and bias tires.

On the basis of tire type, the market is bifurcated into run flat tires and non-run flat tires. Non-run flat tires being traditional tires, are easily available in the market, hence they are currently dominating the tire market in this region. Market in terms of rim size is segmented into 14 inches, 15 inches, 16 inches, 17 inches, 18 inches, and 19 inches & above. By country, the market is segmented into Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Cambodia, etc.

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Gajah Tunggal, Suryaraya Rubberindo, Bridgestone, Michelin, Sumirubber, etc., are among some of the leading brands operating in the South East Asian Tire Market.

Apart from these brands, other tire brands are also increasing their brand awareness, price schemes and elevating product portfolio in the region to increase their customer base. Major companies in the South East Asian Tire Market are also focusing on increasing their dealer and distributor network and launching technologically advanced products to grab a larger share in the region's tire market.

Report Scope:

Years considered for this report:

Historical Period: 2016-2019

Base Year: 2020

Estimated Year: 2021

Forecast Period: 2022-2026

South East Asia Tire Market, By Vehicle Type:

Passenger Car

Light Commercial Vehicle

Medium & Heavy Commercial Vehicle

Two-Wheeler

Three-Wheeler

Off-the-road

South East Asia Tire Market, By Demand Category:

OEM

Replacement

South East Asia Tire Market, By Radial Vs Bias:

Radial

Bias

South East Asia Tire Market, By Rim Size:

Up To 14 inches

15 inches

16 inches

17 inches

18 inches

19 inches & above

South East Asia Tire Market, By Tire Type:

Non-Run Flat Tires

Run Flat Tires

South East Asia Tire Market, By Country:

Indonesia

Vietnam

Thailand

Malaysia

Philippines

Singapore

Cambodia

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the South East Asian Tire Market.

Companies Mentioned

Gajah Tunggal Tbk PT

Suryaraya Rubberindo Industries PT

Bridgestone Corporation

Michelin

Sumirubber Malaysia Sdn Bhd

PT Industri Karet Deli

Saovang Rubber JSC

Danang Rubber JSC

Casumina (The Southern Rubber Industry Joint Stock Company)

Maxxis International

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/o4e7yd

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005564/en/

Contacts

ResearchAndMarkets.com

Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager

press@researchandmarkets.com

For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470

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New state-of-the art facility supports Transplaces customer growth and logistics innovations

DALLAS, July 15, 2021--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Transplace, the leading provider of logistics technology and services, today celebrates the grand opening of its new center of excellence located at 4909 W. Magnolia St. in Rogers, Ark. The ultra-modern facility extends logistics solutions and supply chain strategies for the worlds leading brands and most active shippers. Located in Northwest Arkansasa globally-recognized logistics hubthe new office is situated near renowned retailers, suppliers and shipper customers, with expectations for exponential growth.

Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson attended Transplaces grand opening. "Northwest Arkansas is a focal point for innovation, commerce and new business opportunities," said Governor Hutchinson. "Transplace is an industry leader and longtime business partner in this community. We anticipate even more progress as they expand to include hundreds of future new hires."

Michael Preston, Arkansas Secretary of Commerce and Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Committee said, "Our region is an incubator for high-tech advancements and progressive enterprises. Transplaces move from Lowell to this larger, cutting-edge operations center underscores the companys tremendous growth over the years. This expansion is just the beginning of even more progress as we look forward to continued prosperity for our region."

The new Rogers facility is 150,000 sf. As one of the worlds largest managed transportation services providers, Transplace offers shippers network scale and flexibility, while lowering operational risks and supply chain costs.

"For over 20 years, Transplace has made a commitment to Northwest Arkansas and our new center of excellence will infuse leading-edge logistics technology, as well as new job opportunities," said Frank McGuigan, CEO of Transplace. "Our proximity to iconic brands that are among the largest, most prolific shippers, enhances communications, streamlines multi-shipper collaborations and optimizes transportation budgets."

Story continues

The new operations center extends Transplaces investments in AI, machine learning and predictive analytics. Transplace will continue innovations to its transportation management system, SaaS application, Logistics Solutions Platform and other solutions to support shippers in Northwest Arkansas, across North America and Europe.

"Todays grand opening marks another exciting step in Transplaces strong growth journey," said Jack Daly, Partner, and Alex Minasian, Principal at TPG Capital, Transplaces majority shareholder. "The new center of excellence will drive significant job creation and business momentum in Arkansas Northwest region and builds on the companys leadership in supply chain innovation. We are proud to support Frank and the team in this important milestone."

To learn more about innovations in logistics management services and customized supply chain strategies, connect with a Transplace expert: transplace.com/contact/connect-with-an-expert/

About Transplace

Transplace powers one of the largest managed transportation and logistics networks in the world. Our tech-enabled services and solutions platform are backed by the unrivaled combination of innovative technology and a dedicated team of domain experts, engineers and data scientists. We are committed to thrilling our customers by consistently improving supply chain performance and providing greater visibility and control of their logistics networks. Companies of all sizes rely on Transplace to deliver trusted outcomes through best-in-class logistics management, strategic capacity and cross-border services. Follow the company on Twitter, Facebook, Transplace.com and the Transplace Industry Blog.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005737/en/

Contacts

Media Contact: press@transplace.com

Grace Platon | +1 214.901.4744

GraceP@TheCarbonAgency.com
Justice's signature line now available to even more girls with Walmart as exclusive fashion retailer

MISSISSAUGA, ON, July 15, 2021 /CNW/ - Today, Walmart Canada announced a new partnership with Justice, bringing its popular tween assortment to even more girls just in time for back to school. With this strategic partnership, Justice's signature line of fresh, trend-inspired designs across tween apparel, accessories and home will be available at Walmart's low prices, beginning August 19 on Walmart.ca and in 326 Walmart stores nationwide.

Justice launches at Walmart Canada with a new back to school collection that includes more than 140 items across tween fashion, footwear, jewelry and accessories, bedding, backpacks and stationery. (CNW Group/Walmart Canada Corp.)

As parents and kids alike look forward to finally going back to school, Justice launches at Walmart Canada with a new back to school collection that includes more than 140 items across tween fashion, footwear, jewelry and accessories, bedding, backpacks and stationery. Customers will find athleisure separates including fashion leggings starting at $8, tie dye sweatshirts and joggers starting at $13, and oversized hoodies starting at $18. The collection will also feature bedding sets, pillows, throws ranging from $20-$40. New styles will be added seasonally.

"Justice is a popular brand our customers know and love, and with the back-to-school shopping season underway, this new collection comes at the perfect time for our customers looking to elevate their style," said Marlise Wilson, Sr. Director Kids Apparel, Walmart Canada. "We're thrilled to partner with Justice as its exclusive fashion retailer as we continue to expand our assortment, offering customers quality, on-trend and accessible style at an incredible value."

Justice, owned by Blue Star Alliance, is known for its cutting-edge tween apparel and accessories that translate each season's aspirational trends into looks that help girls feel confident. From 90s inspired streetwear and athleisure separates with bold and vibrant prints to denim featuring the latest silhouettes, washes and distresses, Justice offers the latest styles for every girl at a price point attainable for every Walmart customer.

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"Bringing Justice to Walmart Canada is such a natural fit," says Ralph Gindi, President of Bluestar Alliance. "Justice connects to so many girls in an incredibly impactful way, we wanted to make sure even more consumers would have the opportunity to grow up with the brand. This is truly an exciting moment for Justice and its core consumer.

Walmart Canada will be the exclusive in store experience for the Justice brand. With Walmart's incredible scale and reach, Justice will bring the same quality, design and trends to more doors than ever before. The most unique aspect of this partnership is the ability to utilize the core Justice design team. According to Justice Design Lab President, Kat DePizzo, "I am so thrilled to continue this beloved brand on in partnership with Walmart. I was able to maintain the heart of the Justice design and product team, all who have been responsible for creating the amazing products that our customers have known and loved for years. I have spent 14 years with the Justice brand, and I couldn't be more excited to bring it back to the Canadian customer in even more doors than ever before. We've been busy creating a back-to-school assortment that is on-trend, fashion first, and with the same quality and value that our customer expects. This once-in a-brand opportunity to partner with Walmart is a career milestone for me."

About Walmart Canada

Walmart Canada operates a chain of more than 400 stores nationwide serving 1.5 million customers each day. Walmart Canada's flagship online store, Walmart.ca is visited by more than 900,000 customers daily. With more than 100,000 associates, Walmart Canada is one of Canada's largest employers and is ranked one of the country's top 10 most influential brands. Walmart Canada was recently recognized as a LinkedIn Top Company of 2021 and was also named one of Canada's most popular brands (based on Google searches). Walmart Canada's extensive philanthropy program is focused on supporting Canadian families in need, and since 1994 Walmart Canada has raised and donated more than $500 million to Canadian charities.

About Justice

Justice, owned & managed by Bluestar Alliance, is the premier tween girls' brand, building exciting and powerful connections through fashion and fun. We create apparel and lifestyle products that celebrate every girl's unique sense of self. From must-have trends to pop-culture, the Justice brand is all about inspiring and empowering every girl, every day. Your girl is the heart of Justice. Additional information about Bluestar Alliance can be found by visiting the corporate website, www.bluestaralliance.com.

Walmart Logo (CNW Group/Walmart Canada Corp.)

SOURCE Walmart Canada Corp.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/July2021/15/c6132.html
Its just hard. It wasnt supposed to be like this, Heflin said. I just have to come to terms that things do happen. I never thought of the bad, thats for sure.

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Heflin, who lives in Caroline County, said she focused on the positive aspects of the donation to the point she didntmake that she couldntconsider any other outcome. About 95 percent of liver recipients survive the first year, and the odds of longer survival times are even higher with living liver transplants, said Dr. Vinay Kumaran, a surgical director at HumeLee.

Thats because livers from deceased donors go to the sickest people, those who need them the most, Kumaran said. Living donations are often given between family memberssuch as the Caroline County sistersand typically are done before the health of the recipient deteriorates so badly.

In the weeks after the surgery, Heflins worries about her sister seemed to affect her own recovery. She has ongoing nerve pain around the site, and because of the stress of constantly second-guessing if she did the right thing, shes not sleeping or eating well.
McAuliffe pointed out that more than 40 percent of Virginias high school students end their education upon graduation. He said community colleges and technical schools can offer those students a path to better, higher-paying jobs while also helping the state grow by filling needed jobs.

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Im a huge advocate of community colleges, McAuliffe said. I think they are the best investment you can have to get right into the workforce.

He emphasized that his plan would help with financial aid, just to make it easier for you to be successful.

Another key to the plan also aims to address what McAuliffe called a teacher shortage in the state, pointing to pay as the big problem. He said the average Virginia teacher salary compared to the average worker ranks 50th in the nation, which called disgraceful.

McAuliffe pointed out another part of his plan after one young Germanna student told him she wanted to be a teacher.

The plan, he said, would pay for the college education of students who commit to teaching in state public schools for five years.
ATLANTA (AP)  Two recent high-profile faculty appointments could be a fundraising and enrollment bonanza for Howard University, one of the nation's most prestigious Black colleges. Many other Black schools are not so fortunate; in fact, many are struggling.

Some, especially smaller private colleges, have been fighting for their survival for years, with weak endowments, aging buildings and steady enrollment declines, all made worse by the coronavirus pandemic.

"While larger HBCUs often have the funding resources necessary to attract accomplished talent like Nikole Hannah-Jones and Ta-Nehisi Coates, many smaller institutions need donors to step forward, contributing much-needed financial resources for us to compete," said Dr. Paulette Dillard, president of Shaw University, a private Black university in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Hannah-Jones accepted a faculty position at Howard amid controversy over whether she would be granted tenure at the University of North Carolina after critics questioned her credentials, specifically her Pulitzer Prize-winning work "The 1619 Project," which traces the country's history with slavery. Coates, a Howard graduate, is a journalist and best-selling author who also recently joined Howard's faculty.

Billions of dollars in federal virus relief will help higher education, but it may not be enough to change the long-term fortunes of some historically Black schools. An Associated Press analysis of enrollment and endowment data shows wide disparities among 102 historically Black colleges and universities, and a further divide between private and public institutions.

As one example, the five wealthiest private Black colleges had endowments ranging from $73,000 per student to more than $200,000, far above the median endowment of less than $16,000 per student. The largest endowment for a public Black college was less than $25,000 per student, though the public schools also receive state aid.

Overall enrollment in historically Black colleges has declined 11% in the most recent 10-year period for which data is available, from 325,609 in 2010 to 289,507 in 2019. Enrollment at some campuses dropped by half during that span, and several administrators said enrollments dropped further during the coronavirus pandemic last year.

As a rule, Black colleges also haven't had the fundraising ability of other universities. The cumulative endowment for all historical Black colleges through 2019 was a little more than $3.9 billion. That's about equal to the endowment for the University of Minnesota alone.

Of that amount, just eight private Black colleges held 54% of the total: Spelman College, Hampton University, Meharry Medical College, Xavier University of Louisiana, Morehouse College, Tuskegee University, the Morehouse School of Medicine and Howard, which counts Vice President Kamala Harris among its graduates.

Last summer's protests over racial injustice brought renewed attention to historically Black colleges and universities and led to a surge in private donations, at least for some.

Mackenzie Scott, the ex-wife of former Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, gave $560 million to 22 Black colleges, including some with very limited endowments, as well as to the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and the United Negro College Fund, both of which raise money for Black colleges and universities. Netflix founder Reed Hastings and his wife, Patty Quillin, split $120 million among the United Negro College Fund, Spelman and Morehouse. Former New York mayor and entrepreneur Michael Bloomberg pledged $100 million for student aid at the four historically Black medical schools.

"It's allowing the schools to see the opportunity to be bigger than they previously thought was possible," said Harry Williams, president and chief executive of the Thurgood Marshall fund.

Yet many lesser-known schools continue to struggle and scrape for money. Shaw, one of the oldest historically Black colleges in the South, has an endowment worth just $8,436 per student and did not benefit significantly from the wave of private giving last year, said David Byrd, the college's vice president of finance.

The college is able to "pay the bills" and get by, he said, but still has $26 million in deferred maintenance. Shaw and other smaller Black colleges that mostly depend on tuition are counting on help from the federal coronavirus relief championed by President Joe Biden and passed by Congress this spring. That aid package will send roughly $2.6 billion to historically Black colleges, although the U.S. Department of Education has not yet announced how it will allocate the money.

Shaw plans to use the money to fix older buildings and dormitories and expand a variety of student services. The federal aid can be used to make up for lost tuition income during the pandemic, hire more faculty, offer pay raises and upgrade heating and air-conditioning systems.

Wilberforce University in Ohio, another small historically Black private college, plans to use its pandemic relief money in similar ways, after the government forgave much of the university's $25 million in federal debt.

"The bottom line: It's very beneficial to the faculty, staff and students at this university, because now we have some additional opportunities for support," said William Woodson, Wilberforce's financial vice president.

Student debt is a significant drag on graduates of historically Black colleges, and administrators say it hurts enrollment. Limited endowments mean their campuses can't subsidize tuition as much as wealthier colleges.

A large percentage of students enrolled at historically Black colleges come from the poorest families, those making $20,000 a year or less, which forces them to borrow. Federal figures show the typical Black college graduate who borrowed money owes $52,000 in student loan debt, roughly double what the typical white student owes.

In addition to giving more financial aid to students, many Black colleges are considering using their federal pandemic money to create campus work-study jobs through which students can earn income, provide subsidized child care, buy personal computers and help students pay for high-speed internet connections.

At Shaw, officials hope renewed national interest in historically Black colleges and the role they play could spark enthusiasm for schools with much smaller endowments that have had to choose between updating buildings, closing programs or keeping tuition affordable for their students.

More than 80% of Shaw's undergraduates are eligible for federal Pell Grants, compared to roughly 45% of Howard students. But Byrd, the school's financial officer, said that's also where the university has had an impact for the past century and a half: giving low-income students the tools to find a career and succeed.

He said it's "really tough to predict" how long it will take for the university to recover from the pandemic. Its finances are primarily driven by tuition and donations, yet enrollment has dropped by nearly 53% from 2010 to 2019. He cited the need for continued federal relief or private donations that trickle down to the smaller schools.

"People think we want a handout for nothing. We have a proven track record for producing a certain type of kid for 150 years," Byrd said. "So, it's not really a handout; it's an investment."
WASHINGTON (AP)  Welcoming Angela Merkel to the White House for a final time, President Joe Biden renewed his concerns to the German chancellor Thursday about a major, nearly complete Russia-to-Germany gas pipeline but said they agreed Russia must not be allowed to use energy as a weapon.

The two discussed  though made no apparent headway  on differences over the Nord Stream 2 pipeline during a largely friendly farewell visit for Merkel as she nears the end of a political career that has spanned four American presidencies.

On a personal note, I must tell you I will miss seeing you at our summits, Biden said as he stood by Merkel, the second-longest serving chancellor in Germany's history, at a late afternoon White House press conference. "I truly will.

Merkel, who had a famously difficult relationship with former President Donald Trump, showed her ease and familiarity with Biden, who has long been a fixture in international politics, repeatedly referring to him as "Dear Joe.

Asked to compare her relationship with Biden to hers with Trump, Merkel remained diplomatic, saying only that it was in any German chancellors interest to work with every American president." She added with a smile, "Today was a very friendly exchange.
Despite the antagonisms between Modi and Twitter, he has been an enthusiastic user of the platform in building popular support for his Bharatiya Janata Party. His government has also worked closely with the social media giant to allow Indians to use Twitter to seek help from government ministries, particularly during health emergencies. Bharatiya Janata Party's social media team has meanwhile been accused of initiating online attacks against critics of Modi.

Still, earlier internet restrictions had already prompted the Washington-based Freedom House to list India, the world's most populous democracy, as partly free instead of free in its annual analysis.

The law announced in February requires tech companies to aid police investigations and help identify people who post mischievous information. That means messages must be traceable, and experts say this it could mean end-to-end encryption would not be allowed in India.

Facebooks WhatsApp, which has more than 500 million users in India, has sued the government, saying breaking encryption, which continues for now, would severely undermine the privacy of billions of people who communicate digitally.

Officials say they only want to trace messages that incite violence or threatening national security. WhatsApp says it cant selectively do that.
In short, the department cant hire enough new troopers to replace those who are leaving the force.

The number of trooper applicants decreased dramatically from 2,594 in 2017 to just 1,556 in 2020  a 47 percent decline. Of those applicants, 75 percent voluntarily dropped out of consideration in 2017 when they learned what the job entailed. In 2019, the percentage of dropouts increased to 84 percent.

Of the 258 applicants who remained in 2019, the majority either failed their physical or written tests, were disqualified due to a prior felony, or did not have a college degree. And these less-qualified candidates struggle . to meet certification standards, Settle says.

It costs Virginia taxpayers $108,260 to train just one new state trooper. Their average annual pay is $56,691, which is lower than that offered by many local police and sheriffs offices in the commonwealth.

Settle calculated that candidates who failed to pass the academy or left VSP before full retirement age resulted in a net loss of $68.7 million over the last five years. That puts the $18.6 million he is requesting in proper context.

Because of the large number of vacancies, state troopers are facing mandatory overtime, cancelled days off, and longer than optimal deployments.
Criticism of Postal Service is unwarranted

Post Office is failing the public [Letters, July 7] attacked the United States Postal Service, claiming when [a] package has been shipped by the Post Office, I usually plan on not getting it at all, much less when promised.

As an online bookseller shipping exclusively by the USPS, I have to disagree with this. I must also point out the Mail Innovations shipping method the writer mentions is in fact a hybrid delivery system which mostly relies on UPS until the final step of shipping, when the postal service is used.

The letter writer also makes the blanket statement that the Post Office has major morale problems, another claim with which I disagree. I regularly use the post offices in Spotsylvania, Spotsylvania Mall, Locust Grove and Culpeper, and the vast majority of postal workers Ive encountered have been both pleasant and professional, as are the local delivery people.

As for the writers complaint about late or missing parcels, I can show piles of recent receipts tracking deliveries completed ahead of their projected arrival dates.
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General Dreykov (Ray Winstone), the one who took in Natasha and Yelena and submitted them into being the killing machines of their assassin days, is at it again. He has an army of female assassins that are forced to obey his every command, and wont stop until he reaches global domination.

To make things worse, a seemingly robotic and invincible supersoldier known as Taskmaster is on Natasha and Yelenas every trail. To avoid further terror and seek revenge on their lost childhood and adolescence, the sisters must reunite with the help of Mom and Dad to take down Dreykov once and for all.

In whats a proper sendoff for Johanssons Black Widow character, the action is frequent and consistently top-notch. Youll be hard-pressed to find better hand-to-hand combat sequences, which is so fitting for a character thats been entertaining us in those sequences for the past decade.

David Harbour looks like hes having a blast in his goofy fatherly role, reliving the glory days of his characters super-soldier past. Florence Pugh is also an absolute knockout as younger sister Yelena. Her on-screen chemistry with Johansson is undeniable, and you cant help but feel a passing of the torch that exceeds beyond the characters theyre playing in life imitating art.
The United States will begin an evacuation operation at the end of July for Afghans who helped the U.S. military during the nearly 20-year war, but it was not clear how many will be evacuated or where they will go while their visa applications are processed.



The White House announced Operation Allies Refuge on July 14, saying flights out of Afghanistan will be available first for special immigrant visa applicants already in the process of applying for U.S. residency.



White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki cited security concerns as the reason she could not say how many Afghans are expected to be among those evacuated in the first flights or where they will be taken.



"The reason that we are taking these steps is because these are courageous individuals," Psaki said. "We want to make sure we recognize and value the role they've played over the last several years."



Biden has faced pressure from members of Congress to come up with a plan to help interpreters and others who worked with the U.S. military and therefore face retaliation from the Taliban after the U.S. completes its withdrawal next month.



U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken last month told a congressional committee that there were about 18,000 applicants "in the pipeline." Half of them were actively in the process of applying for special immigrant visas, he said.

The Biden administration has not yet announced a third country or U.S. territory that could host Afghans while their applications are processed.



Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby said on July 14 the Pentagon has identified an unspecified number of overseas locations as "potential candidates," but no final decisions have been made.



Much about the Biden evacuation plan remains unknown, said Krish OMara Vignarajah, president and CEO of the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, which has helped resettle thousands of Afghans in the United States.



One of her concerns is how the plan will help people in areas outside Kabul evacuate, especially in light of gains made by the Taliban in more rural areas.



"Unfortunately, there are still far too many questions left unanswered, including who exactly and how many people are eligible for evacuation," Vignarajah told the Associated Press. "How will those outside the capital access safety?"



The official who will lead the State Department coordination unit charged with overseeing Operation Allies Refuge is Tracey Jacobson, a former chief of mission in Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Kosovo.



Russ Travers, deputy homeland security adviser and former head of the National Counterterrorism Center, is coordinating the interagency policy process for the evacuation, officials said.



The White House also announced that Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall, the White House homeland security adviser, would lead a U.S. delegation to a security conference in Uzbekistan this week to discuss Afghanistans security issues with leaders from Central Asia.

With reporting by AP and Reuters
The Taliban has proposed a three-month cease-fire in exchange for the release of 7,000 of its fighters, an Afghan government negotiator said, as the militant group captured a key border crossing with Pakistan in a sweeping offensive ahead of the August 31 deadline for the pullout of U.S. forces from the war-torn country.

"It is a big demand," Ahmad Nader Naderi, a key member of the government team involved in peace talks with the Taliban, told a news conference in Kabul on July 15.

Naderi said the militants also demanded the removal of their leaders' names from a United Nations blacklist.

There was no immediate official reaction from the Afghan government to the proposal.

The Afghan government last year released more than 5,000 Taliban prisoners to help kick-start peace talks in Doha, but negotiations have so far failed to reach any political settlement.

Naderi also accused the Taliban of destroying half a billion dollars' worth of administrative buildings in 116 districts of 29 provinces.

"[They have destroyed] 260 buildings that are the property of the people of this country. They have been destroyed, blown up, or burnt down. If you look at how much money is spent, it is worth at least $500 million," Naderi said.

The Taliban immediately denied the allegations.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's Foreign Ministry confirmed Taliban fighters had captured a key border crossing with Pakistan. There had been conflicting reports about the status of the border from Chaman to Spin Boldak in Afghanistan, with the Afghan government claiming it had retaken it from the Taliban and the insurgents insisting they remained in control.

"They have taken control of Spin Boldak border crossing," Pakistans Foreign Ministry spokesman Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri confirmed on July 15, a day after the Taliban said it had seized the town.

Meanwhile, Pakistani security forces used tear gas to disperse hundreds of people who tried to force their way across the border from Chaman to Spin Boldak. An Afghan Taliban source told AFP that hundreds of people had also gathered on the Afghan side, hoping to travel in the other direction.

The border was closed July 14 by Pakistan officials after the Taliban seized Spin Boldak crossing and raised its flag above the town.

As fighting rages across much of Afghanistan, the UN's refugee agency has warned the spiraling conflict could trigger a humanitarian catastrophe.

"Afghanistan's on the brink of another humanitarian crisis," Babar Baloch, a spokesman of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said on July 13.

A failure to stem the "violence will lead to further displacement within the country, as well as to neighboring countries and beyond, he said.

This story is based on reporting by Radio Azadi correspondents on the ground in Afghanistan. Their names are being withheld for their protection.

With reporting by AFP, and Reuters
Here are a couple of ways to support the community and have a good time:

 Silver Key Gala at Boot Barn Hall, 13071 Bass Pro Drive, 6 to 10 p.m. Aug. 7. For $150 have heavy hors doeuvres, one complimentary adult beverage, casino fun money to use at game tables, live music, dancing, and silent auction. Black tie and Roaring Twenties-style dress encouraged. Reservations required at silverkey.org/gala or 884-2300.

 The Cheyenne Village Shrimp Boil at Country Club of Colorado, 125 Clubhouse Drive, 5:30 p.m. Aug. 27. For $100 enjoy cocktails by the pool, huge platters of seafood with corn and potatoes and have fun making your own smores at the firepit. Reserve ticket before Aug. 20 at cheyennevillage.org (click on news/events) or call 572-7478.

Mighty fine sipping

Gregor Huesgen, owner of Downtown Fine Spirits & Wines, 103 S. Wahsatch Ave., is offering two limited-edition whiskeys from Distillery 291 in honor of the sesquicentennial of the city of Colorado Springs. The 150th Anniversary Barrel Select 291 Colorado Whiskey and Colorado Bourbon Whiskey are $99.99 each. There are 45 bottles of each available. Sampling is available at Cork & Cask, 60 E. Moreno Ave., and Cerberus Brewing Co., 702 W. Colorado Ave.
Colorado Springs, CO (80903)

Today

Except for a few afternoon clouds, mainly sunny. High 86F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

A few clouds. Low 59F. SSE winds shifting to NE at 10 to 15 mph.
The City of Loveland has hired an outside law enforcement and public safety consulting firm to conduct reviews of its police department following the forceful arrest of Karen Garner in June 2020, according to a news release from the city Thursday afternoon.
Barry Fagin is a former Colorado CASE Professor of the Year and a recipient of the ACLU National Civil Liberties Award. His views are his alone. Readers can write Dr. Fagin at barry@faginfamily.net.
City Editor

Tom Roeder is the Gazette's City Editor. In Colorado Springs since 2003, Tom has covered the military at home and overseas and has cover statehouses in Denver and Olympia, Wash. His main job, though, is being dad to two great kids.
Colorado Politics senior political reporter

Joey Bunch is the senior correspondent and deputy managing editor of Colorado Politics. His 32-year career includes the last 16 in Colorado. He was part of the Denver Post team that won the Pulitzer Prize in 2013 and he is a two-time finalist.
West Point eyes cloud-based Common App platform

To widen the pool of applicants and more easily collect data on prospective students, West Point is looking to a cloud-based Common Application platform.

The Common App was developed in 1975 to streamline the college admissions process and is accepted by over 900 member colleges in the United States. Applicants fill out one basic application, which can then be sent to several colleges. Individual institutions can add custom requirements, such as the congressional district data and service academy-specific questions West Point requires.

Currently, West Point receives approximately 15,000 applications each year, through what a July 9 request for information described as an antiquated, error-ridden online process that is not mobile friendly. The Common App offers several benefits to the school: It would increase the visibility of the West Point brand, make it easier for applicants to apply and allow the school to batch upload candidate data daily into its Academy Management System for use by admissions and ROTC programs.

Through the Common App, West Point officials said they expect to see a 45% increase in applications over the next four years.

Academy officials are looking for a turnkey cloud-based system that would make application processing easier and open files on prospective students. The system should also give applicants access to the schools candidate portal within 24 hours of an applications submission.

While the Common App is a popular tool for college admissions, it is not universal: neither the Naval or Air Force academies use it, nor does MIT, Georgetown or the University of California system.

Read the full RFI here.
Three steps to building digital resilience

A framework for building resiliency in cities should have three phases: respond and restore, expand and optimize, accelerate and innovate, according to IDC.

Business continuity, disaster recovery, those are very important, but we have to be learning and adapting to the disruptions we have responded to, and we need to then enhance and invest in a wise way based on what weve learned, said Ruthbea Yesner, vice president at IDCs Government Insights, during a July 14 webinar titled Building Resiliency in Smart Cities.

The research organization defines digital resilience as the ability for an organization to rapidly adapt to business disruptions by leveraging digital capabilities to not only restore business operations, but also to capitalize on the changed conditions.

Within that context, the frameworks first phase -- respond and restore -- is about fixing immediate problems, such as service outages or, in the case of the pandemic, standing up new government services to keep residents informed. An IDC survey at the end of February found that about half of government organizations said they were still in that phase, focusing on reducing operating costs and promoting business continuity.

As 2021 continues, Yesner said she expects more entities to shift into the second phase of expansion and optimization. This is when government officials can assess where they are and what they learned in the first phase. If IT solutions were quickly deployed to support the sudden shift to remote work in the first phase, then in the second phase agencies should evaluate whether that technology was sufficient and whether it will be useful in the long term.

Eventually -- perhaps after another budget cycle, Yesner said -- agencies will move into the final resiliency phase of accelerate and innovate, where they will invest in workforce development, implementation of cloud technologies and automation.

Digital resiliency doesnt end just by expanding capabilities, she said. Why not take it to the next level and really think about what you can do?

IDCs Digital Resiliency Framework further breaks down into six organizational dimensions. They are:

Leadership and organization resiliency.

Trust and reputation resiliency, or how an agency manages issues like security and privacy.

Workforce resiliency, or the ability to enable and empower workers via flexible working environments and opportunities for career development.

Operational resiliency, or asset management.

Financial resiliency.

Consumer and ecosystems resilience, such as management of digital equity.

For purposes of the webinar, Yesner focused on workforce resiliency to illustrate how the framework can be applied. This is literally one of the major things that I think a lot of government organizations are talking about right now, she said.

The first step is to think about business priorities from citywide, countywide and statewide perspectives. Its not one department, Yesner said. These are really enterprise-level considerations.

In the first phase, agencies typically are focused on workforce safety and planning and business continuity. In the expand-and-optimize phase, agencies might start looking at how to support productivity, collaboration and workspace management, she said, before they turn to innovation such as robotic process automation to help free workers from mundane tasks.

Then agencies should assess the technologies needed in each phase. In the first, respond-and-restore phase of workforce resiliency, for example, the focus should be on security and talent management plus scaled communications, Yesner said. In the second phase (expand and optimize), agencies might start looking at artificial intelligence and machine learning or low- and no-code development, while the third phase -- accelerate and innovate -- would bring in cloud and blockchain, for instance.

The time now is to take a proactive stance on digital resilience, move beyond thinking about just reaction and disaster response, and more on that enhancing and extending capabilities and this cautious investment in terms of what will help you in the future, she said.

COVID-19 highlighted the way disruptions can affect government and its constituents. For instance, network outages increased by 64% in March 2020, compared with the prepandemic period, IDC found, and cyberattacks -- more than 60% of which are ransomware or data theft -- on government organizations have increased exponentially. The February survey found that 45% of respondents said they were not sufficiently prepared for the disruption the pandemic brought.

Still, government agencies across the board stepped up and showed that digitization works.

Their technology is fundamental to doing the work of government properly and meeting the needs of constituents, Yesner said. Smart cities and communities have to be better prepared to respond and adapt quickly. Theres really no ifs, ands or buts about it.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Environmental groups hailed a sweeping $3.5 trillion domestic spending plan announced by Democrats, saying it would make transformational investments in clean energy and jobs and put the nation on a path to cut greenhouse emissions by at least 50% by 2030. The plan also would move the country toward a carbon-free electric grid by 2035, with 100% of U.S. electricity powered by solar, wind, nuclear and other clean energy sources.

But with few details made public, and narrow Democratic majorities in the House and Senate, the deal reached late Tuesday was far from settled.

At least one prominent Democrat, West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin, signaled he will oppose plans to curb subsidies for fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas. Both fuels are crucial to his rural states economy.

Anybody moving in a direction where they think they can walk away and not have any fossil (fuel) in play, thats just wrong, said Manchin, the chambers most conservative Democrat and chair of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.

Eliminating fossil fuels, which are major contributors to global warming, wont happen," Manchin told reporters Wednesday. It cant happen and it doesnt do a darn thing but makes the world worse.
Six months later, languishing in a DC Jail cell, locked down most of the time, he feels deceived, recognizing that he bought into a pack of lies, Davis wrote.

Jensen faces charges including civil disorder and assaulting, resisting or impeding a law enforcement officer.

Davis said he tried to book a plane ticket for Jensen but wasnt able to, leading him to believe that his client is on a no-fly list.

Few of the more than 500 people charged in the Capitol riot remain locked up while they fight the charges.

An appeals court ruling in March that led to the release of a mother and son charged in the riot set standards for how judges should weigh whether to keep Jan. 6 defendants locked up awaiting trial.

The appeals court found that the judge who ordered Eric Munchel and his mother Lisa Eisenhart detained failed to show how they could be a threat to the community, noting that they didnt assault anyone or destroy anything on Jan. 6.

Judges have since cited that ruling in several decisions releasing defendants.

But the appeals court also said last week that people could still be found to be a danger to the public and kept in jail even if they didnt commit violence on Jan. 6.
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The man told the witness that the house was owned by a 50-year-old who was running the trafficking ring and decided to have Tibbetts killed after the publicity surrounding her disappearance got too big. The man allegedly said he and an associate followed through with a plan devised by the 50-year-old to stab Tibbetts and frame a Hispanic man for the death.

The Freses said they learned Tuesday about a criminal investigation that centered on a 50-year-old man who allegedly met one of his sex trafficking victims in May 2018 at a gas station in Brooklyn, Tibbetts' hometown of 1,700 people that is roughly 50 miles (80 kilometers) west of Iowa City.

The woman told investigators that the man lured her to a house in the nearby town of New Sharon, where she was repeatedly drugged, raped, and held against her will until August 2018, court records show. The woman said she sometimes would hear other women's voices in the home.

Law enforcement officials used the information to obtain a warrant to search the home days after they interviewed her in March 2019, but it had already been vacated by the 50-year-old man. They did not charge him, and Mahaska County's sheriff said recently the kidnapping and sex trafficking allegations were never substantiated.
CHATHAM  After an unruly meeting involving shouts and heckling from residents, the Pittsylvania County School Board voted 4-3 to reject the states policy on transgender students.

The 27-page document dictates to school districts how to treat transgender students, including allowing them to use the bathroom that matches their gender identity.

More than 100 residents attended the Tuesday meeting and loudly spoke out against the transgender policy, urging the board to go against state law. All residents who voiced their opinions opposed county schools implementation of the state policy.

I feel it would be a complete distraction for every other child in the classroom for a male student to walk in with a dress, county resident Jimmy Miller told the board during public comment at the start of the meeting.

The crowd showed up in response to rumors on social media that the school board would make policy changes addressing transgender students and so-called critical race theory.

School board chairman J. Samuel Burton started off the meeting before the public spoke, telling those in attendance that neither item was on the agenda.

I know a lot of folks have been looking at social media, Burton told the angry crowd.
Charges against a Texas man suspected in the abduction of a 12-year-old Bassett girl were certified to Henry County Circuit Court on Tuesday.

Kaleb Merritt, 21, of Spring, Texas, appeared in Henry County Juvenile and Domestic Court for a preliminary hearing on charges of rape, abduction and solicitation of a girl that began with an online relationship in December and culminated with the girls disappearance from her home in February.

An Amber Alert was issued, and police caught up with Merritt and the girl in Henderson, N.C.

At Tuesdays hearing, the girl was called to the stand to testify, and she said that it was her intention to run away with Merritt because she loved him.

A portion of an interview between Merritt and investigators read at the hearing indicated that Merritt did not consider himself kidnapping a child but that the two had agreed to run away together.

The Bulletin had published the name of the girl when she was considered a missing person, but because of her age and the nature of the case, she isnt named in this account.
FREDERICKSBURG  Jennifer Catron was alone with her dog when she heard a loud noise outside her home in the 400 block of Morningside subdivision about 5 p.m. Wednesday.

Moments later, at least one large tree had fallen onto her roof.

Im not sure if it was a microburst or a tornado, but whatever it was sounded really, really loud, Catron said, who said she dove under a dining room table just before her home was damaged. Now I can see the sky through every bedroom.

Catron had already called her insurance company by early evening and arrangements had been made to house her and her husband, who wasnt home when the storm struck, in a motel.

And while shes not looking forward to the process of getting their home repaired, she said she was thankful that no one was hurt.

Christy Brown, who lives in the same subdivision, had a tree take out part of her front porch. But the tree did not strike the main part of the house, where her son-in-law and several grandchildren were at the time.

Im just glad no one was hurt, Brown said. And at least we have another door to get in and out of the house.
Who are some of your musical influences?

My brother Brandon Godette has always been a driving force. Hes a few years older than me, and hes an incredible drummer, too. Our parents knew each other way back when, and when it was time for our dads to go play, they would take Brandon, but Im trying to play, too. There was never enough room for Xavier. So, something had to change. I had to get better. That was a main drive.

My little cousin, also, Jaden Ward. He is 17 and will smack anyone off of drums.

Then, theres (North Carolina drummers) Jay Hilliard, J.B. Jackson, Josh Wyatt. A lot of my influences come also from my friends, because were all doing the same thing.

How would you describe your music?

Im all over, honestly. Everything I play is different. Right now, Im in an emo punk band about to tour. I play a bunch of jazz. I grew up in Morehead City, Beaufort, Newport, and thats all southern rock. There was classical training in high school. I would just say that my music is really everything. Even if its not a genre I prefer, if someone says, Hey, I need you to play this, I can do it.

If you could open a show for any artist, who would it be and why?
Sharpe said she wanted the school board to end the emergency power  not as a dig at Contreras, but as a resumption of responsibility.

Contreras said she thought she might still face a situation where it would be useful to make a quick decision to respond to the pandemic on behalf of the district.

According to Nora Carr, the districts chief of staff, only about 26% of teenagers in Guilford County are vaccinated and children under 12 dont yet have the opportunity to receive a shot.

If the schools faced a surge in COVID-19 cases, Carr said, it could be useful for the district to act quickly between school board meetings.

As much as we would all like this to be over, Carr said, its not over yet.

Board member Pat Tillman also praised Contreras and district staff in their handling of the pandemic, but questioned how long the superintendents emergency powers should last.

In truth, I havent used the powers and if you voted to take them away, I can live with that, Contreras said.
In December, UNCG alumni and administrators told trustees they would revert the Virginia Dare Room to its original name, the Great Hall, the moniker given to the main reception hall when the Alumni House opened in 1937.

A Washington Post column from 2018 pointed out that Virginia Dare  the first English child born in the New World  had been embraced as a symbol of white supremacy dating back to before the Civil War up through the modern era.

UNCG graduates and administrators said they were uncomfortable with the association.

Moreover, Virginia Dare had no connection with UNCG except for the fact her portrait hung in the room as the result of a long-ago design choice. Her portrait, in fact, was the reason the space became known as the Virginia Dare Room. UNCG administrators had found no evidence that trustees ever formally changed the rooms name from Great Hall.

But trustees balked at the renaming plan and ordered the Virginia Dare name to remain  at least until UNCG found a donor willing to pay for renovations.

That search ended Wednesday.

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In theory, thats a nice thing to say. I just wonder if the letter writer who wants us to respect peoples choices feels the same way about women who want to make their own personal health care decisions without government interference or harassment from self-appointed members of the morality police.

Jim Galler

Stokesdale

War on truth

To obliterate the dreams of a people is a most vile encroachment on human dignity and life. I will suggest that America has engaged in this contemptible endeavor since its inception. And no people have borne the brunt of this diabolical imposition on humanity more so than Americas Black sons and daughters.

Early 18th century America introduced a most pernicious campaign of intellectual, philosophical and physical slander into the cultural bloodstream. White privilege expanded and thrived while the nation was propelled into a bonfire of racial chaos  and a socio-political structure void of a soul.

The wicked oppression of Black people is now the truth that haunts the consciousness of a nation constructed around a strategic chorus of lies. America is not godly. America is not just. America is not equal, relative to the treatment of its inhabitants.
But when tomorrows leaders are ones who grew up dancing with friends of different faiths, maybe.

Cave of the Yellow Dog has been called an ethnographic drama because family life in Mongolia is meticulously documented by director Byambasuren Davaa, a woman born and educated in Mongolia.

Her only cast is a Mongolian nomadic family that raises sheep to survive. The script builds upon local folklore.

At the center is 6-year-old story Nansal, a girl who finds a white dog with floppy black ears in a cave. Shepherds fear the dog will bring wolves towards their flocks.

Folklore suggests dogs may have spiritual gifts. Sheep farmers talk of sacrifice and reincarnation. An ageless grandma, maybe 100, explains being reborn as human is unlikely. If one buries a dog with its tail under its head, then it may be reborn as a person with a ponytail.

The discovery of the dog provokes Buddhist-inspired lessons about seeing ourselves in all living beings.

The film has subtitles, so cuddling on a couch might be wise. But much of the film is intuitive, with a small girl finding a dog and teaching her dad to love and accept him.

The most powerful character is the mother.
A suspect has been cited in connection with Thursday's Grizzly Gulch fire just outside Helena, which officials believe was human-caused.

Lewis and Clark County sheriffs Capt. Shane Hildenstab said authorities have a person of interest and believe the fire was started by a cigarette butt.

The sheriff's office confirmed that the suspect, who was cited with negligent arson, was detained early Thursday morning and released from custody, according to a press release from the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation. The name of the suspect has not been released.

The fires, comprised of four to five fires that burned together into one larger fire and estimated to be around five acres, was reported about 5:15 a.m. in the 1500 block of Grizzly Gulch.

Hildenstab said there were no evacuations ordered.

The lack of wind really helped, he said.

The fire was about 35% contained as of 5 p.m. Thursday, the DNRC said.

I think were looking pretty good, said Chris Spliethof, fire management officer with DNRC.

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He said hose had been laid down around the area. He said the fire mostly burned through grass and trees.
Its kind of nice for them to get out of the elements, she said.

Like many in the hospitality industry, Davis has struggled to hire staff for the Wise River Club. She said Ed and Rachel Stepan and Lori and Ken Johnson have pitched in to help serve meals.

Davis said she hopes crews can contain the wildfire so that no one loses a structure.

Williams said the plan is to fight the Alder Creek Fire and do it safely.

Its rough terrain and its tough to get into, he said.

The fire was first detected July 8. A cause has not been determined.

GOOSE FIRE

Meanwhile, overnight infrared mapping showed the lightning-sparked Goose Fire 32 miles south/southeast of Ennis at 3,790 acres on Wednesday  up from the 3,236 acres estimated on Tuesday but down from 3,850 acres estimated Tuesday night.

The Forest Service reported some good news Wednesday: A prescribed fire north of Elk Lake from earlier this year and a wildfire east of the lake last year are helping to slow progression of the fire to the south. Also, a road and the lake itself will assist as barriers that lack vegetation.
Citing nearly 1,400 wildfires that have burned more than 141,000 acres in the state, Gov. Greg Gianforte on Wednesday issued an executive order declaring a wildland fire emergency across the entire state.

The order is effective immediately.

The state of emergency opens the door to more resources and assistance, and allows Gianforte to mobilize the state's National Guard and activate the Emergency Management Assistance Compact.

The compact is a mutual aid agreement between states to share resources during an emergency or disaster.

Montana faces critical fire conditions that pose significant threats to our communities, infrastructure, first responders, and way of life, Gianforte said in a press release. As our firefighters battle active fires across the state with more to come, this executive order helps ensure they have the suppression resources, supplies, and fuel they need to safely and aggressively respond.

More than three-quarters of the fires in Montana so far have been human-caused, the release says.
Opening two new medical schools in Montana would stretch and possibly overwhelm the state's physicians who provide the clinical training that students need to become doctors, according to leaders of a University of Washington medical school program that relies on those teaching physicians.

The University of Washington School of Medicine's WWAMI program in Montana requires its students who have finished their academic work to complete clerkships and clinical rotations to graduate, and then those graduates must be matched with residencies. WWAMI  an acronym of the five states participating in the program: Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana and Idaho  uses hundreds of Montana physicians for that hands-on training, in addition to physicians in the other four states.

That's why plans by the for-profit Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine to build a campus in Billings and the nonprofit Touro College and University System to build an osteopathic medical school in Great Falls have WWAMI officials worried.

"The biggest concern that everyone has is around clinical resources," said Dr. Suzanne Allen, vice dean of academic, rural and regional affairs for UW's School of Medicine. "At some point, there's not enough of those clinical resources to go around for everyone to have a good learning experience."
State Sen. Shane Morigeau, D-Missoula, announced his candidacy Wednesday for Montana State Senate District 48.

Morigeau is looking forward to serving his constituents for the first time as an elected, four-year state senator, he said in a news release.

He was appointed by the Missoula County commissioners last November to serve the remainder of the term of Democrat Nate McConnell, who resigned Nov. 5 citing the need to care for his children.

I think I showed last session that Im prepared to hit the ground running and get to work for my constituents, Morigeau said in the release. I've committed my career to fighting back against the rich and powerful to protect Montanans, and that work isnt even close to being done. We have way too many politicians in Helena that are out of touch from the day-to-day realities and hardships Montanans experience. Im eager to get back there and continue my advocacy.

If elected, Morigeau wants to continue the work hes done in his past several years in the Legislature, he said. Education, consumer protection, environmental issues and public land protection are just a few of the statewide issues he plans to target next legislative session.
JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  As many Asian countries battle their worst surge of COVID-19 infections, the slow flow of vaccine doses from around the world is finally picking up speed, giving hope that inoculation rates can increase and help blunt the effect of the rapidly spreading delta variant.

With many vaccine pledges still unfulfilled and rates of infection spiking across multiple countries, however, experts say more needs to be done to help nations struggling with the overflow of patients and shortages of oxygen and other critical supplies.

Some 1.5 million doses of the Moderna vaccine arrived Thursday afternoon in Indonesia, which has become a dominant hot spot with record high infections and deaths.

The U.S. shipment follows 3 million other American doses that arrived Sunday, and 11.7 million doses of AstraZeneca that have come in batches since March through the U.N.-backed COVAX mechanism, the last earlier this week.

Its quite encouraging, said Sowmya Kadandale, health chief in Indonesia of UNICEF, which is in charge of the distribution of vaccines provided through COVAX. It seems now to be, and not just in Indonesia, a race between the vaccines and the variants, and I hope we win that race.
The temperature was 30 below zero when a buddy and I embarked on an ill-conceived December duck hunt on the Clark Fork River.

We were in an aluminum canoe with a rambunctious dog. Shelf ice almost closed the river below Warm Springs in places. The wind howled and the ducks were sitting tight.

Suddenly a trio of ducks exploded and the dog leaped, nearly capsizing our canoe. Had we rolled, we surely would have died. Luckily, my partner was a better paddler than dog trainer. He righted the canoe, and we continued our trip.

This was nearly 46 years ago and is now just a memory. But it helped me to forge a bond with the river, where I have continued over the decades to hunt, fish, photograph and birdwatch.

The state has been working there for six or seven years now to treat mining wastes that contaminated the river, so I returned recently to see what progress has been made.

If you want to see Clark Fork cleanup, drive down to the river from the Galen exit on I-90. Upstream, its tall shrubs, bird life and a worn anglers path. Downstream, its barren, dangerous walking, and streambanks devoid of fish. Which has been repaired by the Department of Environmental Quality?
For those who think trapping is a management tool, remember that trapping has driven wolverines, fishers, lynx, pine martens and river otters to the endangered list or close to it.

Brian Giddings, former furbearer coordinator for Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, stated, FWP regulates furbearer trapping seasons for recreational harvest opportunities. Montana's harvest seasons are not based on reducing or controlling diseases. Backing him are professional biologists writing in Trapping and Furbearer Management in North American Wildlife Conservation, "Regulated trapping will not (and is not designed to) eradicate diseases

Traps are indiscriminate. They maim and kill any animal, bird or even fish that triggers them. Random killing of animals is hardly management. Federal trapper Dick Randall said that for every target animal he trapped, he caught and discarded two non-targets.

Its guaranteed that many more elk calves, fawns and bear cubs will die with the addition of wolf snares and the extended wolf trapping and snaring season using bait. This helter-skelter killing spree should not be condoned by any conservation or hunting organization.

When you donate to an organization, first make sure that it does not condone trapping.
From June 30 to July 3 running 9 p.m. to midnight, the Hardin inspectors only checked 18 boats.

We didnt see as many boats as we expected, said Sean Flynn, FWPs eastern AIS supervisor. We know boats are moving at night, but this operation only encountered a small number of mostly local boats.

Sen. Mike Cuffe, R-Eureka, was an early supporter of the states invasive species prevention programs. The stakes, particularly in the Columbia River Basin which is the last major mussel-free basin in the country, are too high not to step up with funding, he said.

I think the message is finally getting out there across the board that the program is effective, that were doing a good job, because its a total game changer if we get (mussels) into a body of water, he said. The further we can keep them at bay, the better, and our guys are doing a damn good job.

The Legislatures role has largely been focused on funding the program. After mussel larvae were detected in two Montana reservoirs in 2016  no positive detections have occurred since  the state quickly stood up a more than $6 million program.
Smith River floating discouraged

Due to safety concerns and low flows, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff discourages any floating on the Smith River.

The Meagher County Sheriffs office issued a pre-evacuation notice for the Smith River corridor from Camp Baker to the confluence with Blacktail Creek due to the Ellis Fire, which had grown to nearly 900 acres as of Wednesday afternoon.

The portion of the Smith River from the confluence of the North and South forks to Eden Bridge south of Great Falls remains closed to all fishing daily from 2 p.m. to midnight because of low flows and high water temperatures. The gauge at Eagle Creek is measuring 55 cubic feet per second and well below what is recommended for floating.

More restrictions due to the fire are possible. For more information on the Ellis Fire, visit https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7625/.

Regional raptors topic of talk

WHITEHALL Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park will host a free talk titled Raptors of the Region with Mary Maj at 8 p.m. Friday in the parks campground amphitheater.
Todays Highlight in History:

On July 15, 1834, the Spanish Inquisition was abolished more than 3 1/2 centuries after its creation.

On July 15:

In 1870, Georgia became the last Confederate state to be readmitted to the Union. Manitoba entered confederation as the fifth Canadian province.

In 1910, the term Alzheimers disease was used to describe a progressive form of presenile dementia in the book Clinical Psychiatry by German psychiatrist Emil Kraepelin, who credited the work of his colleague, Alzheimer, in identifying the condition.

In 1913, Augustus Bacon, D-Ga., became the first person elected to the U.S. Senate under the terms of the recently ratified 17th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, providing for popular election of senators.

In 1916, Boeing Co., originally known as Pacific Aero Products Co., was founded in Seattle.

In 1918, the Second Battle of the Marne, resulting in an Allied victory, began during World War I.

In 1975, three American astronauts blasted off aboard an Apollo spaceship hours after two Soviet cosmonauts were launched aboard a Soyuz spacecraft for a mission that included a linkup of the two ships in orbit.

In 1976, a 36-hour kidnap ordeal began for 26 schoolchildren and their bus driver as they were abducted near Chowchilla, California, by three gunmen and imprisoned in an underground cell. (The captives escaped unharmed; the kidnappers were caught.)

In 1985, a visibly gaunt Rock Hudson appeared at a news conference with frequent co-star Doris Day (it was later revealed Hudson was suffering from AIDS).

In 1997, fashion designer Gianni Versace, 50, was shot dead outside his Miami Beach home; suspected gunman Andrew Phillip Cunanan, 27, was found dead eight days later, a suicide. (Investigators believed Cunanan killed four other people before Versace in a cross-country rampage that began the previous March.)

In 2002, John Walker Lindh, an American whod fought alongside the Taliban in Afghanistan, pleaded guilty in federal court in Alexandria, Virginia, to two felonies in a deal sparing him life in prison.

In 2011, Rupert Murdoch accepted the resignation of The Wall Street Journals publisher, Les Hinton, and the chief of his British operations, Rebekah Brooks, as the once-defiant media mogul struggled to control an escalating phone hacking scandal. Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony announced they were breaking up after seven years of marriage.

In 2016, Donald Trump chose Indiana Gov. Mike Pence, an experienced politician with deep Washington connections, as his running mate.

In 2018, President Donald Trump arrived in Finland for a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Earlier, in an interview with CBS News, Trump named the European Union as a top adversary of the United States.

In 2019, avowed white supremacist James Alex Fields Jr. was sentenced to life in prison plus 419 years for killing one and injuring dozens of others when he deliberately drove his car into a crowd of anti-racism protesters during a rally in Charlottesville, Virginia.

In 2020,: George Floyds family filed a lawsuit against the city of Minneapolis and the four police officers charged in his death, alleging the officers violated Floyds rights when they restrained him and that the city allowed a culture of excessive force, racism and impunity to flourish in its police force. (The city would agree to pay $27 million to settle the lawsuit in March 2021.) As coronavirus cases surged to record levels in the Los Angeles area, organizers canceled the 2021 New Years Day Rose Parade in Pasadena for the first time in 75 years. Walmart became the largest retailer to require customers to wear face coverings at all of its stores. Thousands of auto racing fans gathered at Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee for a NASCAR All-Star race, the nations largest sporting event since the pandemic began; it was won by Chase Elliott.

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All Eastern Illinois University students will wear masks in all classrooms, whether they are vaccinated or not, making it possible for all students to attend classes in-person.
CHARLESTON  All Eastern Illinois University students will wear masks in all classrooms, whether they are vaccinated or not, making it possible for all students to attend classes in-person.

University's President David Glassman announced the requirement in a clarifying email sent Tuesday to students who had questions following a universitywide announcement on July 1 that stated the expectation that all students should be vaccinated in the fall. The earlier announcement was unclear on whether unvaccinated students would be allowed to attend classes in-person.

"All students can expect a wonderful experience at EIU whether or not they are vaccinated," Glassman said in the email. "All students will be able to enjoy face-to-face, in-person classes and attend exciting and fun events and activities, including the return of Homecoming and countless other great Panther traditions."

Unvaccinated individuals will be allowed to attend events, classes and gatherings but must follow the social distancing rules both indoors and outdoors, except in their rooms or apartments.

According to EIU's guidelines, all students will be asked to wear masks in "all classrooms, the Student Health Center, the Shield Covid-testing site on Court 5 of the Student Recreation Center, and on the Panther Shuttle." Students also will be required to wear masks in all labs and studios.

"In any classroom, there's going to be distanced seating and traditional seating," said public information coordinator Josh Reinhart. "All students will be masked and students can select the type of seating based on their comfort level."

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Reinhart added, "There's no way to really identify in a classroom who may or may not be vaccinated because students might not want to disclose that personal information."

Students will be able to voluntarily submit their vaccine information to Eastern Illinois University. What methods will be used to collect this information are still to be determined.

The submitted information will not affect students' ability to attend class, but will be created so the university will know which students will still take part in COVID-19 surveillance programs. All unvaccinated faculty, staff, and students will still need to take part in the COVID surveillance program, according to the guidelines.

This program, which aided in contact tracing efforts throughout the last school year, selected a random sample of unvaccinated students and employees to be tested at the Student Rec Center. Selected students were notified via text or email message indicating when they would need to participate in SHIELD testing, which involved providing a saliva sample to be tested for the coronavirus.

According to Reinhart, the university is following CDC guidelines for higher education, which were released in December. They plan to continue to follow guidelines from the CDC and partner organizations such as Illinois Department of Public Health and the Illinois Board for Higher Education.

"Any future updates from any of those agencies will be taken into account moving forward," said Reinhart.

Students will be able to update their vaccination status after classes begin, as well. EIU will hold free vaccination clinics on-campus beginning the week before classes.

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WASHINGTON (AP)  Former President Donald Trump insisted Thursday that he wouldnt have used the military to illegally seize control of the government after his election loss. But he suggested that if he had tried to carry out a coup, it wouldnt have been with his top military adviser.

In a lengthy statement, Trump responded to revelations in a new book detailing fears from Gen. Mark Milley that the outgoing president would stage a coup during his final weeks in office. Trump said he's not into coups and never threatened, or spoke about, to anyone, a coup of our Government. At the same time, Trump said that if I was going to do a coup, one of the last people I would want to do it with is" Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

The mere mention of a coup was a stunning remark from a former president, especially one who left office under the cloud of a violent insurrection he helped incite at the U.S. Capitol in January in an effort to impede the peaceful transfer of power to Democrat Joe Biden. Since then, the FBI has warned of a rapidly growing threat of homegrown violent extremism.

Despite such concerns, Trump is maintaining his grip on the Republican Party. He was meeting on Thursday with House Republican leader Kevin McCarthy and has stepped up his public schedule, holding a series of rallies for his supporters across the country in which he continues to spread the lie that last year's election was stolen from him.

His comment about a coup was in response to new reporting from I Alone Can Fix It: Donald J. Trumps Catastrophic Final Year" by Pulitzer Prize-winning Washington Post reporters Carol Leonnig and Philip Rucker. The book reports that Milley was shaken by Trumps refusal to concede in the weeks after the election.

According to early excerpts published by CNN and the Post on Wednesday ahead of its release, Milley was so concerned that Trump or his allies might try to use the military to remain in power that he and other top officials strategized about how they might block him  even hatching a plan to resign, one by one.

Milley also reportedly compared Trump's rhetoric to Adolf Hitler's during his rise to power.

This is a Reichstag moment, Milley reportedly told aides. The gospel of the Fuhrer.

Milley's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. But Milley has previously spoken out against drawing the military into election politics, especially after coming under fire for joining Trump on a walk through Lafayette Square for a photo op at a church shortly after the square had been violently cleared of protesters.

Trump, in the statement, mocked Milley's response to that moment, saying it helped him realize that his top military adviser was certainly not the type of person I would be talking coup with."

The book is one of a long list being released in the coming weeks examining the chaotic final days of the Trump administration, the Jan. 6 insurrection and the outgoing president's refusal to accept the election's outcome. Trump sat for hours of interviews with many of the authors, but has issued a flurry of statements in recent days disputing their reporting and criticizing former staff for participating.

There is no evidence that supports Trump's claims that the election was somehow stolen from him. State election officials, Trumps own attorney general and numerous judges, including many appointed by Trump, have rejected allegations of massive fraud. Trump's own Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency called the 2020 election the most secure in American history.

Trump remains a dominant force in Republican politics, as demonstrated by McCarthy's visit on Thursday to the former president's summer home in Bedminster, New Jersey.

Trump and McCarthy were expected to spend their meeting discussing upcoming special elections, Republicans record fundraising hauls and Democrats they see as vulnerable in the 2022 midterm elections, according to a person familiar with the agenda who spoke on condition of anonymity to describe a private meeting. McCarthy previously met with Trump in January at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida.

Meanwhile, Republicans who are eyeing White House bids of their own aren't crossing Trump, who remains popular with many GOP voters.

GOP Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas, a potential 2024 presidential contender, said "no comment, when asked if he thought Trumps statement was appropriate for a former president. A member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and an Army veteran of two combat tours in Iraq, Cotton declined to comment again when asked if he wanted to criticize Trumps remark.

I think he has the right to say what he wants to say, said Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, when asked if he was comfortable with a former president even hypothetically entertaining the idea of a coup.

You know, Donald Trump speaks for himself and he always has, said Cruz, another potential White House candidate in 2024.



Associated Press writers Robert Burns and Alan Fram contributed to this report.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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The U.S. Navy has one paramount mission: prepare to defend our nation and our national interests through the application of violence at sea. Getting and staying ready to do just that is pretty much a full-time job, leaving little time to dabble in politics.

So why has the Navys senior-most officer, Admiral Michael Gilday, insisted on including politically charged books on his officially endorsed reading list for all naval personnel? Its especially confounding when one considers the lack of evidence suggesting that the Navy has a diversity problem.

Gildays refusal to address congressional concerns about his list and his subsequent fact-free assertions of racism are leading Americans to question whether the Navy is being politicized.

During a recent House Armed Services Committee hearing, Gilday refused to acknowledge feedback pouring in from sailors troubled by what they perceive as woke diversity training. When pressed on why he included Ibram X. Kendis problematic book How To Be An Antiracist on his Professional Reading Program, he offered little in the way of explanation.

His nebulous response  I am the chief of naval operations, not a theorist  answered nothing. Rather, he merely doubled down on the righteousness of his decision.

Coming from the man who stands at the pinnacle the Navys hierarchy, Gildays endorsement carries enormous weight. Many sailors who might wish to raise uncomfortable but respectful questions about woke instruction fear doing so would risk ostracism and negative career consequences.

Thats what prompted two veterans, Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., and Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, to establish a new whistleblower hotline. Judging from the litany of troubling complaints flooding in, it was sorely needed.

Undoubtedly, Gilday was motivated by forces outside the Navy. A July 1 memo cites the turmoil inflamed by a contentious presidential campaign and the death of George Floyd. He responded first by forming a group called Task Force One to look into diversity and equity in the Navy.

Task Force Ones final report sadly provides little raw data, only anecdotal or subjective opinion surveys. Among its few factual findings:

 Minority junior officers enjoy higher retention rates than white officers.

 Retention rates for female officers are rising.

 There is no disparity in promotion rates up to mid-grade level officers, while minorities receive senior enlisted promotions at a higher rate than whites.

The report did find a racial disparity favoring whites in senior officer promotions and junior enlisted promotions. It infers racism as the reason but offers no analysis of promotion boards to justify that conclusion.

The report acknowledges, however, that since 2000 the Navy has made significant strides at increasing its racial, gender and ethnic diversity. Its enlisted population today is 60 percent more racially diverse, 56 percent more gender diverse, and over 300 percent more ethnically diverse than 20 years ago.

There is an internal report that describes a military largely free from extremist activity. The 2018 Gang and Domestic Extremist Activity Threat Assessment recorded only three interactions with police and service members having extremist associations, while 80 cases in the same time period had gang affiliations, which had the highest year-on-year growth rate increase. Moreover, responding to a 2018 request from Rep. Keith Ellison, D-Minn., the Department of Defense reported only 27 incidents of extremist activity over the previous five years.

Gilday and other Navy leaders should course-correct to steer the service out of a political morass. A good first step would be to stop defending indefensible books like Kendis.

Brent Sadler is a senior fellow for naval warfare and advanced technology at The Heritage Foundation.

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Music Notes

The legendary Oak Ridge Boys are scheduled to return to the region.

Members of the Country Music Hall of Fame, the quartet will appear during Symphony of the Mountains 75th Anniversary season on Saturday, Sept. 18, at the Toy F. Reid Eastman Employee Center in Kingsport. Tickets are on sale now for $35.

Fans of country music know The Oak Ridge Boys best for such hits as Elvira, Yall Come Back Saloon and Thank God for Kids. Intact with the same lineup since the early 1970s, members are long-bearded William Lee Golden, golden-voiced Duane Allen, the excitable tenor-singing Joe Bonsall and bass-booming Richard Sterban.

Out of all four of us, said Sterban last year, theres no one who can interpret a song and communicate that song to an audience like William Lee can. When he sings Thank God for Kids, you can look into an audience. It touches people. They have tears in their eyes. Hes a master at that.

Formed during World War II as The Oak Ridge Quartet, they quickly gravitated to Americas most prominent stages. By the end of the 1940s, they were regulars on Nashvilles esteemed Grand Ole Opry.
Even school districts are getting into the act. Earlier this year, the Murray School District in a fast-growing suburb of Salt Lake City began providing broadband for its families using a slice of the broadband spectrum called Citizens Broadband Radio Service and reserved for various kinds of wireless providers. Although the area has numerous internet providers, there were no low-cost plans; when the pandemic hit, existing systems became overburdened and internet speeds slowed sharply.

While most metropolitan broadband is being launched in small cities, the push for large, already overburdened school districts, like Dallas, to provide broadband is a sign that the market isnt working. Jason Eyre, the Murray districts technology supervisor, has been approached by districts from Tucson, Arizona, to Las Vegas for advice on setting up broadband networks.

Localities, including housing authorities, should cut deals with low-cost providers, such as the one connecting low-income neighborhoods in Detroit. Local governments should also demand that contracts with broadband providers include low-cost services and speed guarantees in exchange for the right to build out underground cable and other infrastructure. And regulators must keep large companies from crowding out local providers during the upcoming auction for CBRS spectrum.

Nor are consumer subsidies, such as the temporary Emergency Broadband Benefit, which helped low-income families pay for broadband during the pandemic, sufficient even if they are made permanent  for one thing, they pay for just a fraction of service costs. Both local and federal authorities also must ensure that subsidy programs, whether for customers or providers, dont benefit companies at the expense of consumers. New federal legislation should direct infrastructure funds to states and cities that put the broadband needs of consumers first.

Andrea Gabor, a former editor at Business Week and U.S. News & World Report, is the Bloomberg chair of business journalism at Baruch College of the City University of New York and the author of After the Education Wars: How Smart Schools Upend the Business of Reform.
The Earl Scruggs Centers Summer Concert Series is made possible through the generosity of Presenting Sponsor, the Don and Carla Beam Family Foundation. To purchase tickets or to learn more about the Earl Scruggs Centers Summer Concert Series, visit www.earlscruggs.org/events, or call 704-487-6233.

Library hosts Murrays Mill presentation

Make a trip to the Patrick Beaver Memorial Library in Hickory on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. to learn more about Murrays Mill, one of the sites preserved by the Historical Association of Catawba County.

Executive Director Bo Teague will highlight some of the history and stories surrounding Murrays Mill, which was built by John Murray in 1913.

Murrays father, William, operated a grist mill on the site in Catawba as early as 1883. John Murray built the current two-story structure in 1913, and the family continued to operate the mill until 1967.

The Historical Association of Catawba County purchased the Mill and General Store in 1982 and has been operating them ever since. The original house of William Murray and the houses of John Murray and Lloyd Murray are still on the property. The John Murray house is currently available for tours.
DOVER, Del. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes.

Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent. Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to oust tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they would face eviction within the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Delaware:
Unable to gain a confident handle on hosting an in-person event as the world reemerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Royal Agricultural Fair once again made the decision to cancel its show for the second straight year.

The announcement began emanating out of Canadas largest city, Toronto, late in the afternoon on July 14. In making the decision regarding the closure of its 2021 show, only one other time era delivered a blow equal to canceling the Royal Winter Fair on multiple occasions  World War II.

Initially, we were optimistic that we would be able to gather at Exhibition Place this year to celebrate Canadian excellence in food, agriculture, and equestrian sport, stated Charlie Johnstone, chief executive officer at The Royal. But as the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 continues to create havoc around the world, it became clear that we werent going to be able to host The Royal in a traditional way, continued Johnstone.



Ultimately, this decision may have come down to hosting the event in Canadas largest and most densely populated city, Toronto. While Canada has been extremely slow to reopen in recent months, Americas largest metropolitan areas have been reopening to in-person events at a rather steady place.

New York City, Americas largest city, plans to reopen all of its Broadway Theatre events in September. Had the Royal Winter Fair taken place in 2021, it would have been held from November 5 to 14, a full two months after New York City opened its Broadway Theatre district. The Big Apple and Toronto are just 500 miles or 800 kilometers apart. New York City also has roughly three times the number of people compared to Toronto.

Dairy important, but horses rule

Those in dairy circles have a deep appreciation for Canadas Royal Winter Fair as it has grown into the undisputed King of the Dairy Showring. Earning first place at Canadas premier dairy show all but cemented All Canadian honors in respective dairy breeds.



As important as dairy is to the Royal Winter Fair, it is secondary to the shows star attraction  horses. Events such as the horse show may have played the largest role in canceling the 2021 show. However, no comment was made in that regard by show organizers.

The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair is the largest combined indoor agricultural fair and international equestrian competition in the world. In a typical year, The Royal brings together thousands of competitors and animals and nearly 300,000 guests to celebrate the best in agriculture, local food, and equestrian competition. The dairy cattle show is held in the later portion of the event with a rather stringent time line to complete the show in order that the horses may have the highly coveted main showring.

The 100th show in 2022

Royal Winter Show organizers have every intention to have the show in 2022. However, show organizers also said that about the 2021 show as late as February 2021 when the Royal Winter Fairs board of directors voted to hold an in-person event.



Should the 2022 show come to fruition, it would be the 100th rendition for the event that began after the close of World War I. Its revered distinction as the Royal came via Great Britains King George V in 1920. Toronto almost immediately began construction of facilities befitting a royal event.

As for 2022 and the 100th Royal Winter Fair, Were excited to be setting our sights on 2022, which will mark The Royals 100th Anniversary, concluded Johnstone. As we approach our second century, The Royal is more relevant than ever, and it is our privilege to be Canadas home for local food, agricultural, and equestrian excellence.

To comment, email your remarks to intel@hoards.com.

(c) Hoard's Dairyman Intel 2021

July 15, 2021
ACS has three innovation labs in Australia  Harbour City Labs in Sydney, River City Labs in Brisbane, and Bay City Labs in Melbourne.

A Look in the Labs is an Information Age series profiling the high-growth startups based in our labs  what they do, their ambitions, and the advantages theyve gained being based at the ACS Innovation Labs.

This week, we speak with Andrew Wong, CEO of KOBA Insurance.

Business KOBA Insurance

Established 2020

CEO Andrew Wong

Based at Bay City Labs, Melbourne

Online at Website, LinkedIn



What does your business/product do and how does it help people/other businesses?

KOBA Insurance offers a data driven approach to car insurance.

Its the same type of comprehensive coverage youre used to, just paid differently.

We only charge you for what you use, literally by the kilometre.

How did the idea for your business come about?

Connected cars are coming. Most car manufacturers have already started to release cars that are pre-connected to the internet.

And insurance brands all over the world are jumping onto the trend, just not here in Austalia yet.

Was being an entrepreneur always one of your lifes goals and what have you learned about being an entrepreneur?

Yes!

I loved going to the airport as a kid. Id run into the terminal and collect up the old baggage trolleys then walk them out to the street and sell them to the people unloading their cars. It made me a dollar and saved them a dollar.

What has been the biggest challenge and the biggest milestone for your business so far?

It takes a lot to get full compliance and regulatory approval to become an insurance company.

We have great partners and everyone has been amazingly positive and encouraging on our journey to launch.

Where would you like your business to be in two years?

I hope that in 2 years time we will be hitting our full potential and flying up the growth J curve.

We want to have TV ads, big brand ads, and multiple product lines.

What is the best business or life advice youve ever been given?

I have two: Done is better than perfect, which I learned from my old boss, and Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning from Bill Gates.

What made you decide to move into the ACS Innovation Labs and how has it assisted your business?

ACS has an amazing community of early adopters and digitally native members.

It's great to be around eager, hungry, passionate people.

For more information on the ACS Innovation Labs, visit the websites of Harbour City Labs in Sydney, River City Labs in Brisbane, and Bay City Labs in Melbourne. If you're interested in joining successful Australian businesses in the ACS Innovation Labs, email scale@acs.org.au
The IT industry is scooping up graduates more than any other. Image: Shutterstock

Software and IT services are hiring the most graduates in Australia as the need for local tech talent continues to grow, according to social media company LinkedIn.

The IT industry beats out construction, corporate services, manufacturing, and health care when it comes to taking up graduates, which Country Manager of LinkedIn Australia and New Zealand, Matt Tindale, said is another sign of ongoing digital transformation.

The shift that businesses have had to make towards adopting digital which has increased demand for investment in IT infrastructure, digital content, design and learning has been the main reason for this entry level hiring, he said.

The continued move to online in many areas of our lives, from meetings, studying and shopping have played roles in driving greater demand for graduate skilled professionals in the software and IT industries.

LinkedIns insights come from measuring the number of entry level job postings from certain industry categorisations.

It also scans LinkedIn profiles for bachelor and associate degree completion dates to determine who is classified as a recent graduate.

ACS Australias Digital Pulse report 2021 also quantified the need for graduate employees, finding industry wants a further 60,000 tech workers every year but there are only around 7,000 IT local graduates coming out of study annually.

IT degrees are also becoming more popular with 41,000 domestic enrolments in 2019 as the future workforce begins adapting to demand.

But despite the industry hiring swathes of recent graduates, its not always a matter of grads walking into entry level positions.

Interviews for technology companies are some of the most difficult in the world, often involving hours-long technical tests on platforms like HackerRank alongside multi-staged interviews with management.

LinkedIn found IT graduates tend to take around three months before landing a job  a higher rate than other industries.

Tindale said LinkedIn noted a drop in the number of IT job postings from where it sat in the early stages of the pandemic.

Our broader industry trends reveal that job posting [year-on-year] growth in software and IT services has declined six per cent in March-May 2021 as compared against March-May 2020, Tindale said.

This suggests that some of the transient demand in this sector last year is starting to return back to normal levels.

Australian workers have been feeling the squeeze this past year as the combination of remote work and pandemic-related uncertainty has taken its toll.

A recent survey from Elmo Software found 42 per cent of workers have felt burnt out in the past three months, an increase on the 34 per cent who felt that in the previous quarter.

Greater feelings of burnout coincided with a decrease in job security, with just 47 per cent of respondents saying they felt secure in their job compared with 55 per cent who felt secure last quarter.
ALGIERS (Reuters) - Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune on Wednesday ordered the release of 101 members of a protest movement that forced his predecessor Abdelaziz Bouteflika to step down, the presidency said.

Elected in December 2019, Tebboune has vowed to carry out economic and political reforms and urged the opposition to opt for dialogue to maintain stability.

Algerians late last year voted a new constitution to give the prime minister and parliament a greater role, despite a low voter turnout after a boycott by a large part of the opposition.

Mass protests broke out in February 2019 demanding reforms and the departure of the entire ruling elite, resulting in the resignation of Bouteflika and the detention of several senior officials over corruption charges.

The government later banned demonstrations to stop the spread of the coronavirus, and arrested several protesters defying authorities.

Wednesday's pardon marks the 59th anniversary of the country's independence from France.

(Reporting by Hamid Ould Ahmed; editing by Richard Pullin)
US Department of State spokesperson Ned Price (File Photo)

Washington DC [US], July 15 (ANI): US State Secretary Antony Blinken and French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian called for joint US-European efforts to stand up to Russia and China, US State Department has said.

A State Department spokesperson Ned Price said on Thursday the meeting took place on Wednesday in Washington.

"They agreed on the need for joint US-European efforts to stand up to Russian aggression and to address the People's Republic of China's human rights abuses, coercive trade practices, and aggressive foreign policy," Price said.

They also reviewed ongoing efforts to return to mutual compliance with the JCPOA. The officials also discussed the situation around the recent assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise, as well as France's troop reconfiguration in the Sahel region of western Africa and the situation in Lebanon.

"The Secretary and Foreign Minister discussed how to build on 60 years of close partnership in space. The Secretary invited France to join the United States in applying longstanding principles for the peaceful uses of outer space to advance safe and responsible space exploration activities on the moon and Mars through the Artemis Accords," the statement said.

Secretary Blinken further welcomed France's Villa Albertine initiative, which will establish French cultural centres throughout the United States, strengthening our close ties and sense of shared values, it added. (ANI)
ATHENS (Reuters) - Greece has offered to share its experiences on migrant issues with Lithuania as it handles a sharp rise in the number of people crossing its border, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Thursday, after what he called an "orchestrated effort" by Belarus to pressure its neighbour.

The comments, following a meeting with Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte in Athens, come as Lithuanian and EU officials have accused Minsk of using illegal migrants to pressure the European Union because of the bloc's sanctions. []

"What Belarus is doing is simply unacceptable," Mitsotakis said, adding that the leaders had discussed how to ensure proper reception facilities, speed up asylum procedures, and also how to "effectively and quickly return those not entitled to international protection".

Amid rising tensions between the European Union and Belarus this year, more than 1,700 people have crossed the border into Lithuania, including 1,100 in July alone.

"The total number might not seem very frightening but what is frightening is the trend," Simonyte said, adding that more than 20 times more people had entered than in previous years.

Greece, which has long accused its neighbour Turkey of exploiting the migrant issue, bore the brunt of the crisis in 2015 when more than 1 million people entered the European Union from countries such as Syria and Afghanistan.

At the same time, Athens has also faced criticism for its handling of the migrant issue and accusations, which it strongly denies, of illegal "pushbacks" of migrant boats entering its waters from Turkey.

Mitsotakis repeated that while migration was a problem for the EU as a whole, it particularly weighed on states with external borders. He said he had agreed with Simonyte to coordinate common positions regarding the new EU migration and asylum pact.

They agreed that the new policy should not overburden member states that saw more migratory pressures because of their geography, he said.

Story continues

"Lithuania will also seek a more effective migration policy", Lithuanian PM spokeswoman told Reuters.

The European Union's executive launched a plan in September to overhaul migration rules to resolve years of bitterness over refugees fleeing the Middle East and Africa.

The most sensitive element would de facto oblige each state to host some refugees - something firmly opposed by eastern nations Poland and Hungary.

(Reporting by James Mackenzie in Athens and Andrius Sytas in Vilnius; Editing by Frances Kerry)
Representative Image

New Delhi [India], July 15 (ANI): Russia Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin on Thursday met with Indian Ambassador to Russia DB Venkatesh Varma and discussed a wide range of issues on bilateral cooperation.

The issues that were discussed by the two leaders included matter concerning the forthcoming chairmanship of New Delhi in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in August this year.

"On July 15, Russian Deputy FM Sergey Vershinin and Indian Ambassador to Russia D.B.Venkatesh Varma discussed a wide range of issues of Russia-India cooperation within the UN with an emphasis on the forthcoming New Delhi's chairmanship in the #UNSC in August this year," Russian Embassy in India tweeted.

Earlier this month, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar was on his three-day visit to Russia. He met the Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yury Borisov and reviewed the economic cooperation between the two countries.

Jaishankar stated that the relationship between India and Russia has been among the steadiest in the world and called for constant nurturing of the bilateral ties that have remained strong years after the Second World War. (ANI)
Representative image

Baghdad [Iraq], July 15 (ANI/Xinhua): Iraq reported on Wednesday 9,635 new COVID-19 cases, the highest daily record since the outbreak of the pandemic, raising the nationwide caseload to 1,457,192, the Iraqi Health Ministry said in a statement.

The ministry also confirmed 47 more deaths, bringing the death toll from the virus to 17,677, while the total recoveries in Iraq climbed by 5,813 to 1,326,073.

"If the rise in infections continues, we will take the most strict measures, including imposing a full curfew and closing borders to stop the spread of COVID-19," the ministry said in a separate statement.

A total of 12,343,068 tests have been carried out in Iraq since the outbreak of COVID-19 in February 2020.

Iraq has been pushing forward its vaccination drive since the drug authority approved in January the emergency use of Sinopharm vaccine and other COVID-19 vaccines. (ANI/Xinhua)
S Jaishankar met his Kazakh counterpart Mukhtar Tileuberdi

Tashkent [Uzbekistan] July 15 (ANI): External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Thursday met his Kazakh counterpart Mukhtar Tileuberdi and discussed Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA), COVID-19 cooperation, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and Afghanistan.

In a tweet, Jaishankar said, "Good to meet with DPM and FM Mukhtar Tileuberdi of Kazakhstan. Discussed CICA, Covid cooperation, SCO and Afghanistan."

Jaishankar is on a two-day visit to Taskent to attend the Central-South Asia Conference 2021.

Uzbekistan is hosting the Central-South Asia Conference 2021 in Tashkent titled the International Conference on Central and South Asia Regional Connectivity, Challenges and Opportunities.

Earlier in the day, Jaishankar called on Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in Tashkent and discussed the current situation in and around Afghanistan.

During the meeting, Jaishankar reiterated India's support for peace, stability and development of Afghanistan.

The EAM began his Tashkent visit by inaugurating the IT room of India Uzbekistan Entrepreneurship Development Centre in Tashkent and also met Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen on the sidelines of the Tashkent Conference on Central-South Asia connectivity.

He also met Zalmay Khalilzad, US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation and Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall, Deputy NSA of USA.

Foreign Ministers and other high-ranked leaders from Russia, Japan and the US have participated in 'the International Conference on Central and South Asia Regional Connectivity, Challenges and Opportunities,' which is being held in Uzbekistan.

Around 250 participants and 40 delegates from different countries have taken part in this discussion. (ANI)
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan (File Photo)

New Delhi [India], July 15 (ANI): In view of requests received from students, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday announced changes in the dates of the fourth session of JEE Main 2021. The fourth session will now be held on 26, 27 and 31 August, and on September 1 and 2, the Education Minister said.

"In view of the persistent demand from the student community and to enable the candidates to maximise their performance, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has been advised to provide a gap of four weeks between session 3 and session 4 of the JEE(Main) 2021 Exam," Pradhan tweeted.

"Accordingly, the JEE(Main) 2021 session 4 will now be held on 26th, 27th and 31st August, and on 1st and 2nd September 2021. A total of 7.32 lakh candidates have already registered for JEE(Main) 2021 session 4," the Minister added.

He further informed that registrations for the JEE(Main) session 4 is still in progress and dates for registration will be further extended up to July 20.

The change in schedule came after NTA on July 13 released the admit card of the third session of the JEE main exam which coincided with the fourth session exam dates.

Session three of JEE (Main)-2021 will be conducted at 334 cities throughout the country and abroad on July 20, 22, 25, and 27.

In an effort to support the student community, the National Testing Agency (NTA) is organizing the JEE (Main)- 2021 in four sessions. Two of these sessions have already been completed in February (Session 1: from 23 to 26 February 2021) and March (Session 2: from 16 to 18 March). The April and May sessions were rescheduled.

The UGC NET December 2020 cycle examination scheduled for May 2021 was also postponed by the government in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. (ANI)
Representative image

Vientiane [Laos] July 13 (ANI): With investments by China in infrastructure projects in Laos increasing, there is growing concern in the Southeast Asian country about falling into a 'debt trap'.

A number of Chinese-backed highway projects are part of the communist nation's Belt and Road initiative a massive economic zone linking it to Europe by land and sea, NIKKEI Asia reported.

However, the developing nation of Laos, which is recovering from the pandemic doldrums, has no other choice but to rely upon China for its developmental projects. COVID-19 pandemic, which has decimated the crucial tourism industry has left Laos with no other option but to join hands with China.

The government of Laos in early June also permitted a new expressway linking the capital Vientiane in the central part of the country with Pakse in the south.

Laos is calling the 578 km, $5.1 billion expressway as its flagship project in the country. This route had also been proposed by a Chinese consulting company known as the Henan Provincial Communications Planning and Design Institute.

Laos has also just embarked on a study for a mock-up of another proposed expressway linking Boten, which borders China, with Bokeo Province on the border with Thailand. The 180 km expressway would cost $3.8 billion and allow travel from southern China to Thailand via Laos in just 90 minutes, NIKKEI Asia reported.

Another Chinese-led expressway has already been completed. It is a 110 km highway that links Vientiane with Vang Vieng, this highway is 95 per cent Chinese-owned and now under a build-operate-transfer scheme. Control and profits of the expressway will take 50-years to return to the Laotian government.

The overall cost of construction of these three Chinese-led expressways will total USD 17.8 billion i.e; four times larger than the government's fiscal 2020 spending and close to the country's gross domestic product.

But these roads and expressways are not the only Chinese investment in the country, a high-speed rail service linking Vientiane to southern China is also scheduled to open in upcoming months, this railway project is the first railway project that has been primarily financed, built and operated by China, and connect another nation with China's own railway network, NIKKEI Asia reported citing Xinhua reports.

China's increasing support to Laos shows Beijing's strategic aim to add Laos to 'trap' list

Laos' official debts have exceeded 60 per cent of GDP, directing the nation towards its inability to repay. The Global Development also cited Laos as one of eight countries with particularly heavy debts to China and now China's growing interest in lending capital to Laon in different forms could be devastating for the country. (ANI)
Kathmandu, Jul 15 (PTI) Nepal's government on Thursday recommended President Bidya Devi Bhandari to summon the new session of the House of Representatives on July 18, according to a Cabinet minister.

A Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba made the decision to summon the meeting of the reinstated House on July 18, Home Minister Bal Krishna Khand told reporters.

This would be the first meeting of the 275-member lower house of parliament after it was unconstitutionally dissolved on May 22.

A five-member Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court led by Chief Justice Cholendra Shumsher Rana on Monday reinstated the dissolved House of Representatives for a second time in five months.

The bench issued a mandamus to appoint then Opposition Leader Deuba as the Prime Minister by Tuesday and also ordered summoning new session of House of Representatives on July 18.

President Bhandari had dissolved the lower house for the second time in five months on May 22 at the recommendation of then Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and announced snap elections on November 12 and November 19.

Nepali Congress President Deuba took the oath of office and secrecy on July 13 along with four new ministers - two each from Nepali Congress (NC) and CPN-Maoist Centre.

He has replaced 69-year-old Oli, who has accused the apex court of 'deliberately' passing the verdict in favour of the Opposition parties.

Deuba is required to seek a vote of confidence from the House of Representatives within 30 days of his appointment as the Prime Minister, as per the constitutional provisions. PTI SBP ZH ZH ZH
By Panarat Thepgumpanat and Panu Wongcha-um

BANGKOK (Reuters) -AstraZeneca has asked Thailand to extend the timeline for the delivery of 61 million doses of its COVID-19 vaccine by five months, a deputy minister said on Thursday, a move likely to further disrupt the country's sluggish vaccine rollout.

The reported request points to a slow production ramp-up at its local manufacturing partner, which had initial production and delivery issues, even as AstraZeneca reassured it would be back on track from this month to meet its supply commitments to Thailand and other Southeast Asian nations.

The comments come a day after Thailand said it was considering curbing exports of the locally produced AstraZeneca vaccines to fight its own crisis, sparking concerns of vaccine protectionism.

The Thailand dispute marks a fresh setback for the drugmaker which had other production glitches earlier and is in a legal battle with the European Union over shipment delays, while its vaccine has been linked to rare cases of blood clotting.

Deputy Health Minister Sathit Pitutacha told MCOT television station that AstraZeneca had requested to delay the delivery of all 61 million doses it pledged to Thailand from its Thai production facility from December this year to May 2022.

AstraZeneca did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Sathit's statement.

Sathit also said the drugmaker had the capacity to produce 15 million doses of vaccine per month at the Siam Bioscience production facility it is contracted with in Thailand and that capacity could expand in the future.

AstraZeneca was now promising to deliver 40% of what is produced at that facility to Thailand, Sathit said, adding that Thailand will ask the company for more doses.

"We must negotiate with them, because in this situation we need more vaccine," Sathit said.

"We want 10 million doses because the original plan was 10 million doses," he said referring to the previous monthly delivery target.

Story continues

Thailand is suffering its worst COVID-19 outbreak yet and reported a record 98 coronavirus deaths on Thursday, taking total fatalities to 3,032 since the pandemic began last year.

It also reported 9,186 new infections, bringing total cases to 372,215.

Thailand's main vaccine rollout started last month and only about 5% of its more than 66 million people have been fully vaccinated.

POSSIBLE EXPORT CURBS

Sathit's comments on monthly production of 15 million doses are among the first clear statements of the production by Siam Bioscience, which has been shrouded in a veil of secrecy.

The company is 100% owned by King Maha Vajiralongkorn, and Thai officials have long dodged questions as to whether it was falling short of production goals. Thailand has strict laws against insulting the monarchy that punish offenders with up to 15 years in prison.

Responding to a request for comment on possible export curbs, AstraZeneca said late on Wednesday its Thai-manufactured vaccine "is of critical importance" to neighbouring countries where the pandemic is also accelerating.

"We are actively working with the government in Thailand and governments across Southeast Asia to continue to deliver equitable vaccine access to the region," it said.

AstraZeneca does not make its distribution deals public, but its website says its Thai production would supply several countries in Southeast Asia including Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia. Taiwan also has a deal to purchase Thai-manufactured AstraZeneca vaccines.

"We are continuing to closely observe and pay attention to this. We are also maintaining close touch with AstraZeneca," Taiwanese Deputy Health Minister Hsueh Jui-yuan told reporters.

He said that apart from 117,000 AstraZeneca vaccines that arrived from South Korea earlier this year, the rest of their direct order from the company for 10 million doses is from Thailand.

A representative of Indonesia's health ministry said "there doesn't seem to be an impact" in the shipment of AstraZeneca in light of possible Thailand export curbs.

(Additional reporting by Ben Blanchard in Taipei and Stanley Widianto in Jakarta; Editing by Ed Davies and Ana Nicolaci da Costa)
Representative image

Tashkent [Uzbekistan] July 15 (ANI): Uzbekistan is all set to host a two-day high-level meeting in the capital city of Tashkent on July 15 and 16 to discuss the 'challenges and opportunities in Uzbekistan'.

Around 250 participants and 40 delegates from different countries will take part in the discussion, the conference is titled "The International Conference on Central and South Asia Regional Connectivity, Challenges and Opportunities".

"This conference is very important for us, the main purpose of this conference to deepening cooperation between countries from Central Asia and South Asia in trade and energy issues and other brands of cooperation. We have inauguration sessions, plenary sessions, and many high-ranking delegations will also be there in the conference," Dilshod Saidjanov, First Deputy Director, Agency for Information and Mass Communications under the administrations of the president of Uzbekistan told ANI.

He also informed that Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, Pakistan PM Imran Khan, Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar and other high-ranked leaders from Russia, Japan and the US will also participate in the conference.

"We are facing difficulties to reach out the sea since many years ago (I mean to the ocean) and we are expecting cooperation in trade routes and now we have to pass two countries to get the sea. That's why we are looking for a different face of transportation," Dilshod said.

He also expressed that Uzbekistan has worked with many countries that have played different roles for them. "But we are very near to Afghanistan than Pakistan, India, and China by the ocean. We need cooperation from South Asian countries."

Uzbekistan also expressed concerns about the war-torn situation in Afghanistan and wished it to be normalised soon.

"To the best of my knowledge to understand Afghanistan we have had normal economic trade earlier, economic development is the only way to make Afghanistan stronger and probably more peaceful. Everyone wants better development in Afghanistan. We agree with other countries in Central Asia, including Afghanistan, Pakistan and South Asia, that we want normal trade in the region," said Saidjanov.

Story continues

The city of Tashkent is decorated with flags and lights ahead of the Central-South Asia Summit. The main goal of the conference is to strengthen trust, good neighbourhood and friendly relations between the states of Central and South Asia.

Dilshod, while talking to ANI also informed that Uzbekistan started transportation from Mazar-e-Sharif Afghanistan and has planned to enter Pakistan to reach Karachi and different parts of South Asian countries. The reason behind economic cooperation between Central and South Asian countries is to secure this region for everyone.

The President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev also proposed an initiative to strengthen regional connectivity in the context of the new open foreign policy strategy of Tashkent. The idea is aimed at further deepening economic cooperation in Central Asia, with access to South Asia, which has historically been closely linked to the country's social-cultural, and civilisations dimensions.

For better connectivity, Uzbekistan has established a railway route to Afghanistan and is planning to extend the railway line to Pakistan and other countries as well.

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has also participated in the meeting. Indian Ambassador to Uzbekistan Manish Prabhat, while talking to ANI, stressed on the importance of the conference and what are India's expectations from the high-level visit.

He said, "India has been talking to all the countries for connectivity since the year 2000. Iran and Russia were working together along the north transport corridor. Today many countries work together. India wants every possible connection to be maintained in these countries."

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will also hold meetings with representatives of many countries on the sidelines of summit including Afghanistan, European Unions and Kazakhstan. (ANI)
No al Green Pass in Italia per entrare nei bar e nei ristoranti. Il Green Pass potrebbe invece essere utile per concerti, stadi, discoteche. Il M5S chiarisce la propria posizione nel dibattito sulla possibilita di utilizzare il Green Pass - come annunciato in Francia - per avere accesso a servizi e attivita commerciali. "In tutti questi mesi di pandemia gli italiani hanno accettato responsabilmente di limitare la propria liberta per un preminente interesse di salute pubblica. Le famiglie hanno dovuto reinventare la loro normalita e commercianti e imprenditori hanno dovuto fare grandi sacrifici, quando purtroppo non sono stati costretti a chiudere. Dopo tutto questo non si puo tornare indietro", si legge in un post pubblicato sulla pagina Facebook del MoVimento Cinque Stelle.

"Lo abbiamo sempre detto - prosegue il post - che la gradualita delle riaperture e agire concretamente, privi di ideologismi, fosse la strada corretta per ritornare alla normalita. Oggi, grazie alla diffusione dei vaccini, ai contagi non corrispondo piu molti ricoveri perche abbiamo messo in sicurezza i soggetti fragili. Per scongiurare chiusure non motivate chiediamo pero che vengano rivisti i parametri che ancora regolamentano l'assegnazione delle zone di rischio e non sono piu attuali".

"Ci sono luoghi con grandi afflussi di persone dagli stadi ai concerti fino alle discoteche, che devono aprire e per queste attivita riteniamo certamente utile l'introduzione di un Green Pass per arginare la circolazione di varianti piu contagiose del virus. Una misura che pero non puo prescindere dalla gratuita dei tamponi per le persone che, per vari motivi (patologie pregresse, fragilita, ecc...), non possono vaccinarsi. Diverso il discorso per attivita come bar o ristoranti: in questo momento introdurre il Green Pass per accedervi significherebbe solamente limitare una ripresa cosi faticosa, dopo mesi di sacrifici. Come sempre, quindi, adeguatezza e proporzionalita sono i criteri che ci muovono. Su questo lavorera il MoVimento, in Parlamento e al Governo, per non rendere vani tutti i sacrifici dei cittadini", conclude la nota.
PARIS  The Link Art Gallery in Paris will host the annual Midwest Photography Juried Exhibition Friday, July 23- August 27. The exhibit is open to all photographers in Illinois and Indiana.

There is an Adult Division, ages 18 and up, and a Youth Division, ages 10-17. Each photographer may submit up to three entries. The fee is $20 for Art Center members, $25 for non-members and $15 for students for up to three entries. All fees are non-refundable. All photographs must have a wire attached to the back for hanging. Sawtooth hangers are not accepted.

Photographs previously exhibited in juried shows at the Art Gallery are not eligible to be entered. All photos must have been taken by the exhibitor. The gallery accepts all forms of photography and all forms of photography will be judged together.

As this show has become very popular, in the event the gallery receives more entries than they are able to exhibit, it will be left up to the judges discretion to cut entries from the show.

The judge for this years competition is Rhonda Yocum, a retired teacher and photographer from Terre Haute, Indiana. The judge will select works to be included in the exhibit and present awards to the winning photographers.

The following awards will be given:

Adult Division: First Place, $100; Second Place, $75; and Honorable Mention, Ribbon.

Youth Division: First Place, $50; Second Place, $25; and Honorable Mention, Ribbon.

Receiving dates for the Photography Show are Friday, July 16, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, July 17-18, 1-3 p.m.

The opening reception will be held Friday, July 23, from 5-6:30 p.m. The judge will be critiquing the exhibit and handing out the awards at approximately 5:30 p.m.

For an entry form, questions or any additional information, please feel free to contact the Link Art Gallery at 217-466-8130. Information about the photography show is also available on their website at www.parisartcenter.com.

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MATTOON  The Mattoon school board approved a resolution to the governor that requests local control for COVID-19 mitigation measures and opposes any statewide mask mandate for schools.

The resolution calls for the state to "declare and recognize that COVID-19 mitigation measures are subject to local school board discretion" and "to remove all COVID-19 mandates in place for school districts."

Superintendent Tim Condron said since the resolution was placed last week on the board's July 13 agenda, school districts have received new Illinois State Board of Education recommendations based on U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance.

Nevertheless, Condron said he felt it was important for the board to still vote for local control as state COVID-19 recommendations continue to be updated while the district plans for the 2021-2022 school year.

"A statewide mask mandate for schools would not be based on science and is inconsistent with Illinois Phase 5 guidance for all other venues and gatherings in the state," the resolution states. "COVID-19 mitigation measures, including masking policies, should be determined by local schools boards and superintendents, in consultation with local public health departments."

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) reported last week that it is fully adopting the CDC updated guidance for COVID-19 prevention in kindergarten-12 schools. The state updates align with CDC guidance that activities can resume for fully vaccinated people without wearing a mask, except where required by federal, state, and local rules and regulations.

One element of the updated guidance is that masks should be worn indoors by all individuals age 2 and older who are not fully vaccinated. IDPH reported that for schools that serve children under age 12, the guidance emphasizes implementing layered prevention strategies of masking, distancing and testing to protect people who are not fully vaccinated.

Schools are encouraged to follow the CDC guidelines so they can stay within the bounds of grant funding.

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Under the American Rescue Plan Act, we are required by our ESSER III grant application to create a plan for the safe return to instruction that is aligned with the CDC school guidance, Charleston Superintendent Todd Vilardo said.

The ESSER III, or the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Funding, requires the district to also collect input from the public. The district has been collecting public commentary for the development of a plan for safe return to in-person instruction, which it started pulling together on July 15.

The Illinois State Board of Education allocated around $6.3 million and around $10 million in ESSER III grants to Charleston and Mattoon school districts, respectively.

We are going to listen, we're going to follow the CDC guidance, and we're also going to continue to monitor our case data and consult with the Coles County Health Department officials all of the mitigation strategies  not only on the mask wearing but all other mitigation strategies such as social distancing strategy, cleaning and disinfecting, quarantining, and isolation, Vilardo said.

Condron said the district does have more flexibility under the new guidance, but wants to ensure there is local control for whether students under age 12 have to wear masks at school. He noted that students and staff will likely need to wear masks on school buses this fall due to mitigation measures for such public transportation.

Mattoon parent Todd Farris, who has three children in the district, said he feels that mask mandates at schools are not needed, particularly for younger students. Farris added that his 6-year-old has trouble breathing while wearing a mask. The parent said he appreciates the school district's resolution.

"We are pushing forward with the resolution and I hope we will get some response back," said board President Michelle Skinlo.

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We are actively supporting all teammates affected by reductions with opportunities and tools for internal placement, severance payments, and outplacement assistance and coaching.

BB&T had 2,134 employees in Forsyth County, according to a 2018 workforce report to Forsyth County Board of Commissioners. It also has about 1,700 employees at its Triad Corporate Center complex in Greensboro.

Cantey Alexander, Truists regional president for the Triad, said in December 2019 the bank has about 3,800 employees in the region.

Core details

Loan revenue for Truist was at $3.68 billion when including the recovery to the loan-loss provision and $3.24 billion when excluding the recovery.

By comparison, Truist had $3.28 billion in loan revenue excluding the provision in the first quarter and $3.45 billion a year ago. When including the provision, first-quarter loan revenue was $3.24 billion and second-quarter 2020 loan revenue was $2.6 billion.

Fee revenue was $2.4 billion, up 9.5% from the first quarter, but down 0.7% from a year ago.

Insurance, as had been the case with BB&T for several years, was the top revenue producer at $690 million, up 18.8% year over year.
As an avid fan of science fiction, Hal Tenny didnt know what to think when he was contacted in late 2015 about the possibility of working as a visual consultant on the film Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2.

James Gunn, the films director, had always been one of Tennys daughters favorite directors, and now, Ramsey Avery, the films supervising art director, was emailing him.

I thought it was a hoax, so I immediately Googled the persons name to make sure he was a real person and what he actually did, Tenny said. Then I was floored because Ive never done anything close to that before.

Throughout his consulting work on the film, Tenny was able to do everything at home, mostly via email. Much of his fractal work was further conceptualized by other concept artists, as well as four or more visual effects companies.

I initially sent them probably over 300 images as sampling images for them to look at and see if they could use them anywhere, he said. From there, they took a lot of that imagery and shared it with other concept artists. They might have further modified the image or worked with the image or combined images to come up with finished designs for the actual film itself.
Q: When should I remove a birds nest? Birds have built a nest in the ceiling of my front porch, and their excrement makes a mess below on the porch. I love birds, and dont want to decrease their population any more than I have to. I think the birds are barn swallows.

D.G.

Answer: Many species of songbirds do go through the nesting cycle more than once each summer. Some, like bluebirds will use the same nest box, and others, like cardinals, will build a new nest each time.

You can destroy the nest over your porch after the young birds have left. Barn swallows often switch to another nest the second go-round.

Barn swallows are distinctive in appearance, so you are probably correct in that identification. However, Eastern phoebes have similar nesting habits. The difference is that phoebes always incorporate moss in their nets, while barn swallow nests are made up almost entirely of mud. It may contain some grass, but no moss. Phoebes will sometimes reuse a nest, but they can easily construct a new one if the old one is destroyed.
The task force was set up to give parents a place to report alleged incidents of harassment or incidents of teachers trying to influence students political views with their own.

The release of those complaints, Berger said, will provide evidence that students are being indoctrinated, an idea that got pushback from a few committee members.

Robinson stepped forward when Sen. Don Davis (D-Greene) asked about specific cases of indoctrination.

Robinson said he heard from a parent whose child was told by his teacher that he couldnt do a project on Robinson for Black History Month. The teacher gave the student another Black person to research.

When were talking about indoctrination in this bill, were talking about students being compelled to go along with things that they blatantly dont believe in, Robinson said.

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He laid out a scenario in which two young boys of different races drift apart because of what they learned in school.

As the teacher continues to push a narrative, you slowly see your friend in a different light, not because of anything you did or they did, but because of something that was forced on you in a classroom, Robinson said.
UNC School of the Arts has set up a new scholarship program in hopes of recruiting a more diverse group of students.

The Winston-Salem arts conservatory announced Wednesday that it will work with a New York foundation to recruit, train and support talented students who might be missed through traditional avenues, according to a news release.

UNC School of the Arts said it plans to award 10 full scholarships to undergraduates from eight U.S. cities, including Charlotte, Dallas and Philadelphia. The first Posse Artists will enter UNCSA in fall 2022. School officials said they hope theyll get at least one scholar for each of its five arts divisions.

Once on campus, Posse Artists will be able to take part in workshops, retreats and other events with UNCSA faculty, foundation representatives and other scholarship winners.

The school said it will use existing and new scholarship funds and a $500,000 grant from the Posse Foundation to pay for the Posse scholarships.

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The Forsyth County Sheriffs Office will host the Mancakes: Better Together  Inaugural Father and Son Pancake Breakfast essay contest, during which the winner of a full-tuition scholarship at Carolina University in Winston-Salem will be recognized, the sheriffs office said Tuesday.

Carolina University is sponsoring the essay contest and giving away the scholarship.

This will be life-changing to the applicant who is selected, Sheriff Bobby Kimbrough Jr. Carolina University is an educational institution with deep roots in our community. They are committed to investing in their hometown, and we are excited to offer this unique opportunity to the young men of Forsyth County.

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The essay contest is open to rising high-school male seniors who live in Forsyth County, the sheriffs office said. Eligible students can submit an essay in response to the question, How do we overcome systemic poverty in Winston-Salem, which has one of the worst socioeconomic upward-mobility rates in the United States?

Top prize is a four-year tuition scholarship to Carolina University, the sheriffs office said. Second prize is a $500 gift card and third prize is a $250 gift card.
More than 1,000 new COVID-19 cases were reported Thursday across North Carolina, the first time thats happened in nearly two months.

The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services reported there were 1,020 new cases statewide  the most since 1,020 were reported May 21.

DHHS lists COVID-19 cases and deaths on the day they are confirmed by medical providers and public health officials, so people may have been infected or may have died days or weeks before their cases were counted.

The latest daily case total is nearly double the 540 cases reported for Monday and up 25 from the 995 reported for Tuesday.

Since mid-March 2020, North Carolina has had 1.02 million COVID-19 cases and 13,519 COVID-19 related deaths, the latter up seven from Wednesdays report.

North Carolina officials are concerned that some of the uptick in cases may be because of the delta variant, which has been classified as a variant of concern by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The delta variant spreads faster than other COVID-19 variants and could pose an increased risk of hospitalization.

The vast majority of the news cases, 99%, have occurred in people who are not fully vaccinated.
More than a year after the police killing of George Floyd and the avalanche of donations toward racial equity initiatives that followed, the actual gift amounts and their destinations remain largely unknown, complicating efforts to gauge the effectiveness of the donations and their recipients.

According to a joint report released Thursday by PolicyLink, a research firm that focuses on advancing racial and economic equity, and The Bridgespan Group, a New York-based consulting firm that has advised billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott on her massive contributions, more than 90% of donors who supported racial equity initiatives in 2018 have yet to report how much they gave in 2020.

The study further highlights the limitations experts have experienced tracking charitable dollars for racial equity causes amidst America's racial reckoning. So far, only $1.5 billion of the nearly $12 billion that was pledged can be tracked to actual charitable recipients, according to the philanthropy research organization Candid.
The work I have done and the message that I have broadcast over the years will be judged by the people of Georgia," Miller told WDUN-AM on Thursday. "And I believe the people of Georgia will respond appropriately.

Miller noted that he presided over the Senate during part of the election law debate, when Duncan retreated to his office.

I presided when others would not preside. I stepped up," Miller said during the radio interview. I intend to stand in the gap and run my own race and not worry about others.

The other Republicans in the race are Jeanne Seaver of Savannah and Mack McGregor of Lafayette.

Jones, of Jackson, was stripped of his committee chair post in January after calling for a special session to consider action to overturn Biden's victory. Unlike Miller, Jones also signed a court brief supporting a failed lawsuit by Texas officials challenging election results in Georgia and other states.

Jones' demotion may have had more to do with the internal politics of the Senate after he lost a leadership challenge to Miller, but he has worn his demotion as a badge of honor for supporting Trump.
Airline travel was responsible for more than 900 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions in 2019, a number that's expected to triple by 2050, according to the United Nations.

Lincoln's Executive Travel believes it has a plan to help reduce the industry's impact on the planet.

The travel management company on Wednesday announced its new ETGreen initiative, which has a goal of planting 1 million trees.

The initiative, which Executive Travel plans to start in September, will plant a tree for every airline ticket bought through the company.

Steve Glenn, who founded the company and is now its chairman, said the plan is to purchase seedlings and either give them to customers to plant or plant them for them if they don't have anywhere to put them.

Glenn said he hopes to partner with local businesses, nonprofits and other organizations to plant trees in areas where they are needed. He also has plans to plant trees on land he owns around Lincoln for what will be called the Glenn Family Forest.

"Planting trees not only helps our environment, but it also helps to beautify the communities in which we live," Glenn said.
Heres some of what happened while the world was distracted by the coronavirus: Hungary banned the public depiction of homosexuality. China shut Hong Kongs last pro-democracy newspaper. Brazils government extolled dictatorship. And Belarus hijacked a passenger plane to arrest a journalist.
The president gave a nod to Sanders, who noted their past rivalry and yet spoke with similar urgency about the moment before them  how the future of democracy rests with how well they can connect with people who feel the government has forgotten them.

When it came time for Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to call on senators who had raised their hands to speak, there were no pointed questions or objections, only enthusiasm, according to a person in the room who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the private meeting.

Senators emerged enthralled by the possibility of doing something big for the country.

Truly transformative," Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., said, using a word both Biden and Sanders now share.

The relationship between Biden and Sanders goes back years, the president having already spent decades in the Senate by the time the Vermont lawmaker was elected in 2006.

While Biden was the ultimate senator's senator, Sanders has always been an outsider on Capitol Hill, a declared independent, rather than member of the Democratic Party, with his rumpled suits, gruff demeanor and unrelenting focus on liberal causes.
LAUREL -- No one in the Laurel-Concord-Coleridge school district is likely to ever again take lightly those voter registration ads stressing that every vote matters.

Not after Tuesday, when an $18.5 million school bond issue to provide funding for a new high school and elementary school improvements passed by a single vote.

On Wednesday, superintendent Jeremy Christiansen recalled hearing several anecdotes about voters who made a special trip to Hartington on Tuesday afternoon to drop off their ballot at the Cedar County Courthouse.

"I certainly anticipated it would be close, but I didn't anticipate it would be a one-vote margin," Christiansen said.

The official results show 596 votes in favor of the measure and 595 against it. Voter turnout was 65% for the election, which was conducted via mail-in ballot.

Cedar County Clerk David Dowling, who's also the election commissioner, said Nebraska law does not require automatic recounts in issue elections such as school bonds or sales tax measures. The vote was canvassed Wednesday morning and declared official.

"We did run (the ballots) through again to make sure the result came out the same," Dowling said.
Crime-and-courts

topical alert

HEROIC ACTIONS STOPPED MANIAC

Sheriff says undercover deputy who shot maniac at gas station 'probably' prevented a mass shooting

Michael Izquierdo / MICHAEL IZQUIERDO, michael.izquierdo@journaltimes.com Caledonia Fire Department firefighters put their hose back in the truck after spraying down the scene Tuesday afternoon at the Mobil gas station at 10616 Northwestern Ave. in the Franksville area of Caledonia. That morning, an undercover Racine County Sheriff's Office investigator shot and killed a gunman who had shot the investigator and killed a 22-year-old Elkhorn man at the Pilot Service Center 2.3 miles northwest of the Mobil station. Diana Panuncial / DIANA PANUNCIAL diana.panuncial@journaltimes.com Racine County Sheriff Christopher Schmaling speaks at the Tuesday afternoon press briefing regarding fatal gunfire in Caledonia that morning.

YORKVILLE  Racine County Sheriff Christopher Schmaling gave an impassioned speech to the Racine County Board on Tuesday evening.

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The speech came hours after one of Schmalings undercover investigators shot and killed a gunman  identified as a 32-year-old from Hartland  who had, just minutes before, shot and killed a 22-year-old man from Elkhorn for no reason at the Pilot Travel Center near Interstate 94 in Caledonia.

The 22-year-old has now been identified as Anthony F. Griger of Elkhorn.

Folks, Ive never seen anything like this in my whole life, he told the board.

Sheriff: Man 'viciously executed' at Caledonia gas station; shooter killed by undercover cop; officer hurt The officer who killed the alleged shooter was just starting his shift, filling up an undercover unmarked vehicle at the Mobil station in Franksville when the killer pulled into the station, Racine County Sheriff Christopher Schmaling said; an exchange of gunfire followed and the shooter was killed. The officer was shot but is reported to be conscious and alert, recovering at Ascension All Saints Hospital. The 22-year-old man who was killed at the Pilot station in Caledonia was just filling up his car when he was "executed," according to Schmaling.

Schmaling called on the County Board to support law enforcement both with words and with funding, specifically for training, wages and equipment.

Schmaling also revealed that the investigator was shot at least twice, and that Schmaling personally picked up the 21-year-veteran deputys wife and child to bring them to Ascension All Saints Hospital to visit him. Late Wednesday afternoon, the Sheriffs Office said in a news release that the investigator is in the hospital recovering from multiple gunshot wounds which fractured several bones in the area of his pelvis. The Investigators injuries are non-life threatening. The Sheriffs Office wishes their friend and colleague a speedy recovery, and we appreciate the support from our community.

Judging by the shooters actions prior to his death, Schmaling said Tuesday night that it appeared the man had intended to commit a mass shooting but was stopped short by the investigator, who coincidentally was gassing up his undercover vehicle at the Mobil gas station at 10616 Northwestern Ave., 2.3 miles southeast of the Pilot Travel Center, when the shooter arrived.

The Gun Violence Archive defines a mass shooting as four or more people are shot or killed in a single incident, not involving the shooter. That definition is derived from the FBIs definition of a mass murder, which is when four or more people are killed by any means during the same incident.

Somers House shooting was the 31st mass shooting this month in the U.S. Sunday's shooting at a Kenosha County tavern that left three dead and two others in serious condition was the 31st mass shooting in the first 18 days of April and the 150th in 2021 in the U.S.

Gas station shootings are Racine County's sixth and seventh homicides in 2021 Authorities referred to the shootings as an "active shooter incident" that could have been much more deadly had the shooter not been killed by the undercover Racine County Sheriff's Office investigator.

At Ascension All Saints Hospital after the shooting Tuesday morning, Schmaling said, the wounded investigator only asked one question: Sheriff, did I hit anybody innocent?

Thats what he asked, Schmaling continued. Nothing else. Thats what he asked.

If it werent for that investigators actions, the situation probably would have been more of a mass shooting, Schmaling said, predicting that the suspect wouldve continued shooting other people at the gas station and elsewhere.

According to authorities, the Caledonia Police Department was responding to the shooting at the time but was not on scene when a shootout between the undercover investigator and the gunman occurred.

Its unfortunate, truly unfortunate, Schmaling said. But I look back at what happened  I hate to say this  but I am glad that it was him (the investigator), and not a random citizen (who was shot at). Because he was armed and he was trained.

He knew what to do when somebody came at him. Otherwise, this maniac wouldve gone on another rampage.

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<&rdpEm><&rdpStrong>Below, read a full transcript of or listen to Schmalings speech:</&rdpStrong></&rdpEm>

As you can imagine, this has been nothing short of just an unbelievable day for law enforcement. I am pleased to report today that our deputy investigator was involved in this unfortunate tragic incident is alive, and is well, and is surrounded by his family tonight.

Im not going to disclose his name today, but I will tell you this: He is a 21 year veteran. Ive had the opportunity to work with him for, for almost 21 years, shoulder-to-shoulder, on many cases. And I can tell you he is an outstanding investigator. Hes done a great job in bringing some of the most ruthless criminals to justice in our community.

Today he found himself, literally pumping gas at a local gas station, but unbeknownst to him, just down the road about a mile and a half was the unspeakable. A horrific incident was occurring. An individual came into our community at 7:30 in the morning at a gas station where most people are just getting gas and getting your morning cup of coffee. Weve all done that. I do that daily, literally daily. I get my morning cup of joe if you will. And theres a 22-year-old young man getting his car tank full of gas and getting ready to go to work and along came this, for lack of better words a maniac came in.

I watched that video. And I can tell you that in my 27 years of service, I had never seen  I spent a decade in investigations, Ive seen some very horrific things  folks, Ive never seen anything like this in my whole life.

He (referring to the suspect) lied in wait. He sat there and waited for the right opportunity. And when he (the 22-year-old) was done pumping gas, he (the suspect) quietly walked up to him and shot him dead.

Then rummaged through his pockets to find a set of car keys to get into his vehicle, to find out he didnt want that car. He got out of that vehicle, and found another random person driving to the gas station  which by the way, could have been any one of us  and he shot at that person. That person got out of there as fast as they could. When he realized there was no other victim that he could attack, he got back into his vehicle and headed eastbound on Highway K, and went into the Mobil station.

What he didnt know is that our investigator was beginning his shift, was loading up. He is an on his undercover officer with my office. He has a very special assignment. Hes very talented, very skilled at what he does, and hes filling up his squad car, getting his morning cup of coffee I imagine and doing what he wanted to do. And along came this individual.

This individual, is clear to me after watching the video, had no idea who he is about to encounter. And this, were splitting seconds here. He came out, gun drawn and approached the investigator, and started to shoot at him. We are again splitting seconds. The investigator immediately began firing back at him, falling to the ground and taking on at least two rounds, and then firing back at him.

At the end of the day, the suspect is deceased. It is unfortunate that anyone had to lose their life today. But my heart goes out to this 22 year old young man at the Pilot Station when this whole incident began, who was going to work, was just putting gas in the car.

I look back, at this I have a 23 year old son, who goes to the gas station and hes got $10 or $15 in his pocket just the top off the tank. Unbeknownst to him, there might be somebody lurking around the corner who wants to end everything that he is about. And thats what happens. Its sad, and its tragic.

So where do we go from here? We have great partnerships, as the state statutes mandate. We bring in outside agencies. I chose to bring in DCI, Division of Criminal Investigations with State of Wisconsin to come in and handle this very unfortunate event. They handled the officer-involved shooting as you can imagine, and we are taking care of these unfortunate situation at the Pilot station. We have a great working relationship with the Caledonia Police Department, and they are working with that situation as well and working collaboratively with all of us.

So, I bring this to your attention because you are the County Board of Supervisors and when I look back at his entire situation today and look back at the loss of life and what could have happened and what we did prevent, when I went to the bedside of our investigator this morning  just before eight oclock this morning  there with his wife who I picked up at her home and her child, and talking to him. He wasnt worried about anything, but the person that he had seen what he was firing back at this person who was trying to end his life and the lives of others, and hes seen beyond that, was another innocent person who was getting in their car.

And he was thinking to himself As Im firing, are my rounds going to hit somebody innocent? And thats what he asked me to hospital, while he lied there with bullet holes in his own body, he said Sheriff, did I hit anybody innocent?

Thats what he asked. Nothing else. Thats what he asked.

So, those are the county employees that you have here. These are the budgets that you pass, the equipment that we need, and the training that we deserve, and put within and instill within our staff.

So, as you prepare your budget, please look at these situations. This is where the rubber meets the road. This is where the training comes into play. This is where the equipment comes in handy, if I may, right?

We have to think about the mental health for our staff as well. I spent most of my day talking to our staff on second shift, and I will be through third shift tonight talking to our staff tonight, to try to deal with this situation. What they want to know: Do I stand for them? Am I going to back them up? if you will. And will this board, stand with them when they do the right thing? When they protect the community? When they protect themselves in a spirit of public safety?

So I dont need an answer from you tonight but I just ask you to ask yourselves, do we support law enforcement? Do we support public safety? Do we support the fundamental role of government, which I believe is the protection of its people?

Now its easy for me to say as your sheriff  Ive been a sheriff for going on almost 12 years, Ive been this job for 27. My hair probably shows that with the gray hair. But at the end of the day, I love this job, and I have a great staff, and everyone in this room should be proud of the staff that we have. They are out there every day, every night, giving selflessly of themselves. They put their lives on the line.

This investigator today, I him personally; I know his family.

He left this morning to fill up his tank of gas, and he was going to go out and do an operation that I knew about  nothing related to what happened. This was supposed to be another day for him, another day of bringing justice to our community. But it ended in tragedy.

Its unfortunate, truly unfortunate, but I look back at what  I hate to say this  but I am glad that it was him, and not a random citizen, because he was armed and he was trained. He knew what to do when somebody came at him. Otherwise, this maniac wouldve gone on another rampage. He just shot a 22-year-old young man, executed, and he was going to go right down the line. And this was 7:30 in the morning, that this this gas station was flourishing but people are getting their gas and their coffee and all the rest. He would have undoubtedly went right through the line, and probably would have been more of a mass shooting. But our investigator was able to stop that in its tracks.

Yes, he suffered injury injuries. Yes, he put his life on the line. But that is what we do. I dont want you to lose sight of that.

So, today I just make a plea  not only for law enforcement and public safety in general, but you have other items on your agenda as well that pertain to what we do in law enforcement with the corrections or deputies  and I just ask that you give that some consideration when we start looking at somebodys budgets, and some of this equipment.

Now I know there are some people in this room that dont support law enforcement. I know there are some people that vocally said that there should be citizens making traffic stops.

Ive heard this. I think its ridiculous. I think its insane. Look at what happened today. You want a citizen making a traffic stop of this young man? He just executed a 22 year old, for no reason? Theres a family preparing a funeral tonight, for that reason. But we should have a citizen making a traffic stop? Thats insane and idiotic, if anything else.

I would just suggest that we just reel things in as a community. Were not Minneapolis. Were not California. Were not New York. We are in Racine, Wisconsin. Were different.

We have a trained professional law enforcement arena here. We can do this job. We have demonstrated this job. But we need your support. Everyone in this room, we need your support. So, that said, that is my update.

I wish I could provide you more information but as you can imagine DCI is leading the investigation. And I think, out of respect to that investigation, and out of respect for the victims in this matter, Ill leave it at that. So thank you for your time and your attention. Thank you.

PHOTOS AND VIDEOS from scenes of reported Tuesday morning gas station shootings Close
The officer who killed the alleged shooter was just starting his shift, filling up an undercover unmarked vehicle at the Mobil station in Franksville when the killer pulled into the station, Racine County Sheriff Christopher Schmaling said; an exchange of gunfire followed and the shooter was killed.

The officer was shot but is reported to be conscious and alert, recovering at Ascension All Saints Hospital. The 22-year-old man who was killed at the Pilot station in Caledonia was just filling up his car when he was "executed," according to Schmaling.
Minimum five years

In the second case, Devon Vaughn is charged with arson in connection with a fire that destroyed the B&L Office Furniture store at 1101 60th St. The store has since moved to a new location in the Kenosha Trade Park on 75th Street.

Each of the arson crimes carries a mandatory minimum prison term of five years.

These cases are the direct result of the dedicated, skilled and collaborative efforts of ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) and its federal, state and law enforcement partners, Frohling said. Along with our partners, the Department of Justice is committed to holding individuals who engage in arson and other violent offenses accountable for their actions.

I commend all the law enforcement agencies for their tireless efforts and the United States Attorneys Office for their diligence in charging these crimes that were committed during the civil unrest in Kenosha last August, ATF Special Agent in Charge Kristen de Tineo of the Chicago Field Division added. ATF, alongside our partners, will continue to investigate those violent acts, and appeal to the public for their assistance, to ensure those responsible are held accountable.

Kenosha Interim Police Chief Eric Larsen also issued a statement.
Marcuvitz said the village attempted to work with the Ericksons to reach agreement on a price for land and access rights which were required by (the Wisconsin Department of Transportation) for the improvements needed to the East Frontage Road and to find an alternate parcel of land to relocate the business.

The village and the Ericksons were not able to reach an agreement on the price for the land. As a result, in January 2020, the village proceeded with a jurisdictional offer of about $1.6 million for 1.5 acres of land and access rights required by WisDOT. The Ericksons did not challenge the offer and were paid in February 2020.

In June 2019, the village also found a 13.3-acre parcel of land the Ericksons could relocate their business to, meeting the same characteristics of their property now. It was in Mount Pleasant and it was located along East Frontage Road. The village also offered to pay for moving expenses.

The Ericksons declined this relocation option and it expired in February 2020.
John McCarthy, 32, of Hartland had attempted to leave the Pilot Travel Center in the vehicle of the mortally wounded Elkhorn man  Anthony F. Nino Griger, 22  but couldnt operate it, the DOJ news release said. McCarthy attempted to carjack another Pilot Travel Center patron before fleeing in his own vehicle to the Mobil station.

At approximately 7:30 a.m. a white, adult male subject at the Pilot Gas Station on Highway K ... shot and killed a patron filling their vehicle with fuel, the DOJ stated in the news release. The subject (McCarthy) then attempted to leave in the patrons vehicle but couldnt operate the vehicle. The subject then attempted to carjack another patrons vehicle, but the patron drove away. The subject fired several rounds into the patrons vehicle as it fled. This patron was not injured. The subject then entered his own vehicle and drove to the Mobil Gas Station on Highway K in Franksville ... The subject exited his vehicle, approached a man filling his fuel tank, and attempted to carjack the vehicle. However, the man the subject approached was a Racine County Sheriffs Deputy in plainclothes with an unmarked police car.
TOWN OF RANDALL  Campers began rolling into the Country Thunder grounds near Twin Lakes Wednesday as festival organizers, local businesses and the sheriffs officials prepared to welcome the biggest crowd in more than a year back to the state for the four-day country music event.

The majority of the early arrivals  like Adam Robinson, of Arlington Heights, Ill., and Ken Schleich, of Woodstock, Ill.  came with RVs.

Weve had this spot for eight years, Schleich said. We became friends with everyone around us, and have added more sites. Were so glad to be back. Some of us havent seen each other since the last festival.

A few campers did erect tents Wednesday despite the thunderstorm forecast for Wednesday night. In fact, rain started to fall at 3 p.m. The National Weather Service forecast also calls for a change of showers and thunderstorms Thursday and Friday.

We have meteorologists who are keeping an eye on everything out here, Capt. Dan Ruth with the Kenosha County Sheriffs Department said, adding they get frequent updates and plans are in place to evacuate the grounds if such a situation arises.

Ruth said all deputies on the grounds will be wearing body cameras this year. He offered some tips to help keep festival goers safe.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions that was enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, has been the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and have fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing that they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rent.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they would face eviction within the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Wisconsin:
In testimony supporting the bill, WMC lobbyist Scott Manley said it would address the harm caused by PFAS while protecting businesses and local governments from costly and frivolous lawsuits, noting that the Evers administration has sought bids from law firms to investigate and potentially sue polluters.

Shankland called on the Senate, which has yet to schedule a vote on the bill, to stop it in its tracks.

This was a broad approach to try and help our municipalities, bill sponsor Rep. Elijah Behnke, R-Marinette, told The Associated Press last month. Is it perfect? No. But I dont think any legislation is.

With thousands of variations, PFAS have been used for decades in hundreds of products, including firefighting foam and water-resistant fabrics. Some compounds have been linked to cancer, liver disease and problems with the immune system.

The DNR is monitoring more than 40 PFAS contamination sites across the state, including in Madison, where they have resulted in health advisories for fish. PFAS have affected dozens of private drinking wells in La Crosse and Marinette.

Marinette City Council member Doug Oitzinger said corporate polluters must be responsible for environmental damages.

This bill threatens to make it more difficult  or even impossible  to do that, he said. The people of this community cant afford to sign away their rights to hold polluters accountable.

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They also allege that Selah already knew that their request for a $1.7 million dollar grant had been denied in the fall of 2019 and never let local supporters know that  even as they made the December announcement that the house was open for business.

So, instead of opening the Pleasant Prairie Selah Freedom House which was intended to combat human trafficking in the Chicago-Milwaukee corridor, the Florida-based program pulled back, put the local house on the market and also pulled out of its Chicago house and sent some of the residents there to its Florida facilities. Over the course of several months, local backers tried in vain to contact the Selah organization in Florida to try to find out what was going on.

The small army of local volunteers and organizations had checked all the boxes to make Selah House become a reality, but their efforts were not rewarded.

Perhaps Rep. U.S. Rep. Bryan Steil, who represents Wisconsins First Congressional District and has sponsored legislation to curb human trafficking, can use some of his political clout to turn this around. Steil has said, Human trafficking on a global scale is a $150 billion operation. We need to put a dent in that, we need to end that.
What a wonderful and diverse view one could see while riding a float in the Racine Fourth Fest parade. Many floats celebrated their ancestral heritage, like Alicia Villa (#50) who beautifully sang Latino songs while wearing her authentic Guadalajara (Mexico) dress from her Jalisco ancestral home. Being in the float in front of her (#49  Sons of Norway), we too were celebrating our heritage.

A friend visiting from Connecticut kept commenting impressive, amazing when he viewed the crowds along the parade route, representing the ethnic diversity of Racine, with thousands of our citizens smiling, waving and enjoying Americas Independence Day. America really is a spectacular melting pot. Racine and the Fourth Fest parade truly typifies the diversity and opportunity which makes the United States a special nation. We need to remember that spirit of togetherness, every day of the year.

Tusen takk (a thousand thanks, in Norwegian) to everyone who participated in this years Fourth Fest and to all the parade organizers.

Mike Palecek, Racine

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1. Yes. They are not doing their duty as lawmakers; they should face consequences.

2. Yes. The Democrats may have a point, but they should be required to return to work.

3. No. With no filibuster option available, Democrats would be unable to stop a bad bill.

4. No. Most Texas voters oppose the GOPs voting measures, so they had to be stalled.

5. Unsure. Abbott wants to take a stand, but jailing lawmakers may be too harsh.

Vote

View Results
Killeen, TX (76540)

Today

Partly cloudy in the morning followed by scattered thunderstorms in the afternoon. High 92F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms likely in the evening. Then a chance of scattered thunderstorms later on. Low 72F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
The plot involves Sophie Sheridan who plans to wed her fiance, Sky, and wants her father to walk her down the isle at the ceremony. Sophie never knew her father and can only guess at his identity after reading her mothers journal. She narrows the identity of her father down to three men  and invites all three to the wedding on the Greek island of Kalokairi where her mother, Donna, runs a hotel.

Monroe, a director and choreographer living in New York City, agreed to return to central Nebraska to work with Crane River Theater on the musical. He choreographed Newsies for Crane River Theater in 2019.

I do believe that certain characters do transform, he said. They do learn things about themselves, whether its the two people who were having an affair 21 years ago, went separate ways but still recognize that their love is strong  and thats where they need to be.

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Monroe also looks at the character of Sophie as someone who transforms.

She recognized that finding her identity is not related to her parents, but related to actually who she is and who she wants to become, he said. I think there are some merits to that in regards to how the arc of the show goes.

When it comes to the music, Monroe understands how his audience can connect to it.
Were pleading for anyone who has not been vaccinated yet and is eligible to seek it as quickly as they can, she said.

Current vaccines from Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson are highly effective against the coronavirus and its variants, Anderson said.

Some individuals may have breakthrough cases with mild symptoms, though.

We should not see folks who are fully vaccinated have serious illness and be hospitalized, she said.

Wearing a mask will reduce the chance of spreading or contracting the virus and its variants.

A concern for CDHD is that too many people have put the pandemic and its concerns behind them going into the summer season.

I think the majority of the people believe the pandemic is over, but what were seeing in surrounding states is very clear evidence that it is not over, Anderson said. It was on hiatus in June. Its going to come back again, and it is indeed making its appearance now.

Anyone who develops respiratory symptoms should be tested for COVID-19.

Its important for us to get ahead of this variant as much as we can, Anderson said.
In India, the worlds biggest democracy, populist Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been accused of trying to silence voices critical of his administrations response to a brutal infection wave that tore through the country in April and May. His government has arrested journalists and ordered Twitter to remove posts that criticized its handling of the outbreak after introducing sweeping regulations that give it more power to police online content.

In Russia, the government of President Vladimir Putin has used the pandemic as its latest excuse to arrest opposition figures. Associates of jailed opposition figure Alexei Navalny have been subjected to house arrest and charges that the mass protests against his arrest violated regulations on mass gatherings.

In neighboring Belarus, authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko extended his quarter-century iron grip on power by winning an August 2020 election that the opposition -- and many Western countries -- said was rigged. The huge protests that erupted were met with tear gas, rubber bullets and mass arrests.

Then, in May, a Ryanair plane flying from Athens to Vilnius was forced to land in the Belarusian capital of Minsk after the crew was told of an alleged threat. Opposition journalist Raman Pratasevic, a passenger, was taken off the plane along with his girlfriend and arrested.
Sue shared that there are also 23 other tenants all supporting at least 85 jobs at the Food Enterprise Center. The tenants are:

In summary, Sue noted that through these many activities, VEDA is building wealth in the region, increasing its tax base, and improving the quality of life in our communities. VEDAs work also creates opportunities for the community to be involved through investors supporting businesses at the Food Enterprise Center to grow and expand, and through generous community residents who support Community Hunger Solutions with their financial contributions and volunteer time.
Wayne Cook, son of Mr. and Mrs. Art Cook of Viroqua, has the distinct honor of playing first chair solo trombone in the University of Wisconsin All-State Band. He was chosen over 19 others trombone players from all over the state for the coveted position.

At a meeting of the program committee for the Viroqua Centennial Celebration, the members deplored recent careless journalism wherein Vernon County Judge Lincoln Neprud was scored as a leader of a minority attempting to force the appearance of Mr. Gerald L. K. Smith onto the Centennial program against the wishes of a majority. It was brought out that Judge Neprud had nothing whatever to do with this matter and that credit or blame for any part of the program belongs to the committee in charge. Because of such errors the program committee respectfully requests that future publicity be cleared through the Publicity Committee Chairman Mr. Alson Tollefson. It was also voted that regardless of premature reports in certain papers, Mr. Gerald L. K. Smith, native son, will definitely appear on the Centennial program, as originally planned. This was determined by a definite majority of the program committee.
River Bluff Daze returns to Ferryville, Saturday, July 24. The free event features numerous activities throughout the day.

The schedule is as follows:

8:30 a.m., join an expert guide for nature hike at Sugar Creek Bluff. Meet at the Ferryville Boat Landing to carpool up to Sugar Creek Bluff. Hikers will see birds, wildlife, wildflowers and experience the panoramic view of the Mississippi River Valley;

9

a.m., Farmers Market in Sugar Creek Park featuring Amish goods, produce, crafts, quilts, bird houses, yard ornaments and a variety of products, plus free coffee to sip while it lasts. Brat Fry by Ferryville Farmers Market Committee featuring Wisconsin brats. Transportation between Sugar Creek Park and the Ferryville Community Center for the Tractor Pull will be available via tractor and wagon;
Criminal complaints have been filed against the following people in La Crosse County Circuit Court:

Stephanie A. Nelson, 40, La Crosse, is accused of theft of movable property. According to the complaint, Nelson stole an inoperable automobile from a La Crosse residence Oct. 15, 2020, and sold it to another person. Her July 15 initial court appearance was continued to July 22. She is free on a signature bond.

Xavier James Neal, 20, Fort Worth, Texas, is accused of false representation/party to a crime. According to the complaint, Neal and another man approached a West Salem residence July 4 and told the homeowner they were there to fill cracks in her asphalt driveway. They said the job would cost $400 to complete. After filling the cracks, the two men told the homeowner she owed $7,400. She negotiated the payment down to $6,058, and the two men accepted her check and left in an unmarked truck. Neal has an initial court appearance set for July 20.
Brian R. Fitch faces felony charges of second-degree sexual assault by use of force and causing a child 13-18 years old to view sexual activity and misdemeanor battery. According to the criminal complaint filed Tuesday in La Crosse County Circuit Court, a woman told La Crosse police she was sexually assaulted in the city sometime in February 2012, when she was 17 years old. She recalled being highly intoxicated and was invited by Fitch to lie down on his bed. She said she was awakened by the sound of a pornographic VHS tape before Fitch pinned her to the bed and sexually assaulted her. She said Fitch ignored her pleas to stop. She said the assault didnt end until a male came into the bedroom and pulled Fitch away.
He also states in the bulletin that the parish at St. James the Less has grown in the last 15 months, and that he is donating $12,000 from book royalties for a wheelchair lift and ramp for the church.

As of Thursday, Altman has received nearly $750,000 in support from online crowdfund sites.

Last Sunday, the Diocese tapped Monsignor Robert Hundt to oversee Mass at St. James the Less. During a sermon, he read a statement from Bishop Callahan to the parish, as heard in an audio recording.

Instead of working for all souls, the actions and words of Father Altman have caused great division within the parish, the bishops statement said. I recognize the difficulty that many of you may have in understanding such a decision, but it is important for each of us as individual parishioners and as an entire Diocese to come together in an effort not to cause further division and scandal.

Hundt continued in his own words with a message on rebuilding the parish.
He also states in the bulletin that the parish at St. James the Less has grown in the last 15 months, and that he is donating $12,000 from book royalties for a wheelchair lift and ramp for the church.

As of Thursday, Altman has received nearly $750,000 in support from online crowdfunding sites.

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Last Sunday, the diocese tapped Monsignor Robert Hundt to oversee Mass at St. James the Less. During a sermon, he read a statement from Bishop Callahan to the parish, as heard in an audio recording.

Instead of working for all souls, the actions and words of Father Altman have caused great division within the parish, the bishops statement said. I recognize the difficulty that many of you may have in understanding such a decision, but it is important for each of us as individual parishioners and as an entire diocese to come together in an effort not to cause further division and scandal.

Hundt continued in his own words with a message on rebuilding the parish.
RICHMOND, Va. (AP)  Microsoft said Thursday it has blocked tools developed by an Israeli hacker-for-hire company that were used to spy on more than 100 people around the world, including politicians, human rights activists, journalists, academics and political dissidents.

Microsoft issued a software update and worked with the Citizen Lab at the University of Toronto to investigate the secretive Israeli company behind the hacking efforts. Citizen Lab said the company goes by several names including Candiru, which according to legend is a parasitic fish found in the Amazon that attacks human private parts.

Microsoft said people targeted in precision attacks by the spyware were located in the Palestinian territory, Israel, Iran, Lebanon, Yemen, Spain, the United Kingdom, Turkey, Armenia, and Singapore. Microsoft did not name the targets but described them generally by category.

Citizen Lab said Candiru's spyware infrastructure included websites masquerading as advocacy organizations such as Amnesty International and Black Lives Matter.
Lambert said shes aware of several districts across the state that have put forth policy language to limit discussion of race and U.S. history in classrooms, including the Germantown and Burlington school districts. She also said the public has pressured school board members in districts such as Waukesha and others across the state to limit or ban the use of critical race theory, despite a lack of evidence that the theoretical framework is being used directly in classroom discussion.

The point of the letter was to remind districts about what the law says about what they need to do with respect to race in their classroom, Lambert said.

Her letter included a number of state and federal statutes that require districts to teach about race at all grade levels, ensure that students understand and appreciate different cultures and value systems of American society, address systemic racial climate problems, and use appropriate teaching strategies to reduce racial disparities in academic achievement.

WILL responded to Lamberts letter Tuesday in an open letter saying that, by invoking critical race theory, Lambert and the ACLU promoted the teaching of racial essentialism in K-12 curriculum  the idea that race defines the experiences and abilities for all members of that race.
Lucas Herro was in his element, as he calls it, as he sat in silence in a ground blind on a piece of land near the remote burg of Burr Oak.

It was his fourth season of Wisconsin spring turkey hunting, and he desperately wanted to shoot a tom.

This early May hunt, he thought, might be the one.

We were in position on the edge of a window. There was a field behind and in front of us. We had a decoy set up behind us as well as in front of us, Herro recalled, not missing a detail.

We knew the hens were hanging out in the field. We sat no more than an hour and the hens came in silent, towing a tom.

Lucas, along with his friend and hunting partner, Knute Aasen, were poised for action. The adrenaline was flowing. The tom was getting closer and closer. This was it, right?

The tom came within 10 yards. It was too close, and we needed to let the shot spread out a little bit, Herro said. We got to see him. He came out from that window (in the blind) in full strut. It was phenomenal.

I have always wanted to see that. It was the first time I had seen a tom in any kind of hunting experience. It is unlike any other hunting experience. Words dont do it justice.
The final touches are coming along on unit No. 1. The bathroom already has a tiled shower and an original window thats now a shelf.

The kitchen has new appliances and a counter that extends long enough for a few seats.

The living space has tape marks on the hardwood floors marking where the daybed will fit.

At 260 square feet, this is the smallest new apartment in Lancaster city.

This home is tiny enough to be called a micro-apartment. The five apartments at Dwell, 30 N. Water St. each have lots of natural light, high ceilings and complete kitchens and bathroom. Thats Steve and Jennifer Youngs recipe to make smaller spaces greater.

Its meant to be efficient, higher-end living for an affordable price, says Steve Young.

While tiny living might not be for everyone, each apartment here was claimed by a tenant before construction ended. For the city, new ideas like this to offer good-quality, safe and affordable residences are welcome, says the citys department of community planning and economic development.

(To look around one of the apartments, click and drag your mouse on a computer. On mobile, move your device to look around.)

A building with potential

A few years ago, Steve Young opened Warehouse 210, a co-working space in a former tobacco warehouse on West Grant Street. Later came plans for Enclave, a community of art studios and galleries in shipping containers.

Steve and his wife Jennifer noticed the property on nearby Water Street. It was for sale by owner and a pre-20th century building, the kind of space they renovated like State and Main in East Petersburg and through ventures such as Domain Lancaster.

The building on Water Street had long been the home of In and Out Camping & Relief Association, a private social club with roots in the late 1800s. When the association dissolved in 2009, the bar closed. By the time Steve and Jennifer stepped inside, the building had been vacant for about a decade.

There were holes, places where the outside was coming in, Jennifer says. It just wasnt very pleasant initially.

Still, it was in a great location so they purchased it just before the pandemic brought life to a halt. The couple owns the property through BE Enterprises, named after their teenage daughters.

Efficient living

The Youngs envisioned Dwell as efficient living in downtown Lancaster. The apartments theyve created range from 260 square feet to a bit more than 400 square feet. Traveling overseas reinforced the idea that you dont need a lot of space.

You dont really need an insane amount of space to live in, Steve says. You just need an efficient, functional space.

Each apartment has air conditioning and its own appliances, including a washer-dryer combo. Each space comes with Internet, access to the co-working space and a streaming service that has yet to be determined. Tenants pay $895 a month plus their own electric.

The apartments have different layouts and features. Barn doors on tracks save space. Some of the window wells have shelves. Appliances tuck underneath countertops.

Everything is designed purposefully, Steve says.

Tiny but better

Bekah Church signed up for her apartment at Dwell even before it was finished. Church is a stage manager for Fulton Theatre. When the theater closed, she moved in with family in Maine with plans to return to Lancaster.

A friend obsessed with tiny home shows discovered the Dwell website in the fall and shared it with Church. Dwells across the street from the theater and she liked Steves passion for the project.

This is too good of an opportunity to pass up, she says.

On floor plans alone, she picked her apartment, one large enough for a separate bedroom. When she moves (in time to prep for Fultons Fun Home), shes looking forward to the bright light, the reliable heat and having an older building thats well laid-out.

Its kind of like tiny living but it doesnt feel like it, she says.

Church also says she feels lucky to find a one-bedroom apartment for $895 a month. In her apartment search, she found more places closer to $1,200 a month.

Small approval

To create the small apartments, the Youngs needed a special approval. The minimum size for an efficiency in Lancaster is 400 square feet. A one-bedroom unit must be at least 550 square feet. The citys zoning hearing board granted a variance for those minimum sizes.

There is a housing inventory problem in the City and metro area, which is pushing up prices and causing other pressures, staff from Lancasters department of community planning and economic development wrote in an email. We encourage a diversity of housing development, both in terms of housing type and serving all income levels.

Dwell isnt the only new small home approved in the city. A tiny home was set up at 765 Saint Joseph St. a few months ago. Also, a building at 351 W. James St. received relief from the space requirements, the department says.

Social club to apartments

For the Youngs, they spent more than a year renovating the building into Dwell. The first floor had a bar and details from the 1970s: lots of dark wood, paneling and drop ceilings.

Through construction, they remove the modern additions, exposed brick walls and changed the location of the stairway, giving tenants a separate entrance. The entrance and hallways are tagged with graffiti-style art from artist Ramon Trevino.

They added a third floor and an addition in the back of the building, which added space, an accessible entrance and a fire escape.

The building is now nearly 3,600 square feet, including about 1,200 of commercial space on the first floor.
FUNDRAISER: New Life Mission - Haiti, will host a chicken barbecue fundraiser from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 17, at New Life Fellowship, 420 E. Fulton St., Ephrata. Meals are $10 and include a quarter-chicken, barbecue potatoes, pasta salad, roll/butter and a whoopie pie. A quarter-chicken only can be purchased for $6. Preorders are suggested, but not required, for this drive-thru event. To order, call 717-869-3537 or email newlifemissionshaiti@gmail.com. Proceeds benefit the construction of Cindys Medical Center.

FOOD TRUCK: The Big E Food Truck Fundraiser will be held from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 21, at the Kmart parking lot, 1605 S. Market St., Elizabethtown. Vendors include Blazing Swine Barbecue, Good Life Ice Cream, Wich Way Sandwiches, Mac Stack and Fuego Latino. Blazing Swine dinners (pork barbecue, bun, coleslaw, a bag of chips and water) will be pre-sold for $10 at this link: forms.gle/dp15qpehLo2xdfyY6. Deadline to order is July 15. Other trucks will be in-person orders. Proceeds benefit the Big E Booster Club and the athletes of Elizabethtown Area High School.

DINNER PARTY: Susquehanna Valley Community Connection invites the public to The Lighter Side of Life dinner party Friday, July 23, at the Lancaster Country Club, 1466 New Holland Pike. Punch will be served at 6 p.m. with dinner at 6:30. There will be a special comedy presentation with music by Mark Cable, Story of My Life-Live, Laugh & Love. Cost is $30 per person. Include name of each guest with payment made payable to SVCC. Mail your reservations to Eleanor Doutrich, 560 Friendship Ave., Lancaster, PA 17601. Information: 717-208-7136.

Three weeks notice of an event is appreciated. Please place the date of the event or the deadline date to register at the top of the press release. Email your information to news@lnpnews.com.
AMSTERDAM (AP)  A top official at the European Medicines Agency said a decision on whether to recommend that Modernas COVID-19 vaccine be authorized for children is expected late next week. If approved, it would be the first such license for the shots use in children globally.

At a press briefing on Thursday, Dr. Marco Cavaleri, the EU drug regulators head of vaccines strategy, said its expert committee was currently evaluating Modernas application to extend the use of its coronavirus vaccine for children 12 to 17 years old.

We expect that the committee will reach a conclusion by the end of next week, he said.

Modernas vaccine was given the green light for use in anyone 18 and over across the 27-nation European Union in January. It has also been licensed in countries including Britain, Canada and the U.S., but so far its use has not been extended to children. To date, the vaccine made by Pfizer-BioNTech is the only one approved for children under 18 in Europe and North America.

The EMA said last week there was a  possible link  between the vaccines made by Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech to very rare cases of chest and heart inflammation, mostly in younger adult men. They said the effects were mostly temporary and that the benefits of vaccination still far outweighed the risks of COVID-19.

Last week, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the EU has now delivered enough vaccines to immunize 70% of its adult population and many countries are looking to inoculate children, despite the significantly lower risk they face from COVID-19.

Although Britains regulatory agency has authorized the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children, its vaccine advisory group has yet to recommend that teens be immunized. Moderna has also filed for its vaccine to be licensed for younger teens and children in the U.S.

Many public health officials say rich countries should donate their vaccines once their adult populations are covered, pointing out that millions of people in developing countries at high risk of the disease, including health workers and the elderly, have yet to receive a single shot.

In June, WHO's vaccines director Dr. Kate O'Brien said that vaccinating children against COVID-19 is not a high priority given the extremely limited vaccine supplies globally. While more than 3 billion doses of COVID-19 shots have been administered, fewer than 2% have been in poor countries, where the easier-to-spread delta variant is now fueling explosive surges.
The former Lancaster County woman charged with killing her newborn girl and putting her in a dumpster nearly 14 years ago waived extradition on Wednesday.

Tara Brazzle will be brought to Lancaster within a few weeks where she will begin legal proceedings in her criminal case, according to Lancaster County District Attorney Heather Adams.

Brazzle, 44, was arrested July 2 after getting off a plane at San Jose International Airport in California. She is charged with one count of homicide in the death of the baby whose body was found Sept. 24, 2007, in a dumpster behind the YMCA.

At that time, the YMCA was located on North Queen Street in the city; Brazzle, who went by the last name Indrakosit then, was an employee at the Y.

Adams said Brazzle had given birth at her Strasburg Township home several days before placing the body in the dumpster.

In 2018, investigators uploaded the babys DNA into a public genetic genealogy database and essentially built a reverse family tree, leading them to Brazzle, Adams said at a news conference last week announcing the arrest.

Pennsylvania court records do not list an attorney for Brazzle. Her boyfriend of several years said last week that Brazzle had told police that the baby died in childbirth and that she did not harm it.

Once Brazzle is returned to Pennsylvania, she will be held at Lancaster County Prison and her case will begin with a preliminary arraignment and preliminary hearing, neither of which have been scheduled.

The investigation is continuing and anyone with information is asked to call Sgt. Randell Zook at 717-735-3322.

Pregnancy known or not?

Though the man who found the newborns body had worked with Brazzle and said last week that he remembered her being pregnant around the time, another former coworker of hers at the time told LNP | LancasterOnline this week that she did not recall Brazzle being pregnant. The man on Wednesday acknowledged he could have been mistaken, as Brazzle did have other children.

Adams said while she couldnt go into detail on Wednesday, law enforcement is confident that the man is mistaken as to his timeframe We would not be able to make any additional comments on whether the pregnancy was known at this time, citing the ongoing investigation and prosecution.
A former Lancaster County public defender is hoping to reduce the number of people held in pretrial detention.

Michelle Akritas, an attorney who recently left the Lancaster County Public Defenders office after five years of service, started a nonprofit bail fund this month aimed at combating the inequity she sees in the system.

I think its part and parcel with society moving forward from mass incarceration, she said

Akritas said that when she left the public defenders office last year and was thinking about what to do next in her career, the topic of a bail fund kept coming up in her conversations.

Bail is the process of releasing an accused person prior to trial in exchange for some security that the person will return to the court for future hearings. An amount of money set by the judge is typically the security used to ensure a defendants return, with that money being forfeited if a defendant does not show up.

An individual who is unable to post bail is held in jail prior to facing a hearing. A bail fund works by using funds, typically raised through donations, to post bail for those who cannot do so.

In Lancaster County as of the end of May, 66% of the 665 people being held at Lancaster County Prison were being held there pretrial, according to Warden Cheryl Steberger, although it is unclear how many of those are there because they cannot pay their bail amounts.

Questioning the effectiveness

Akritas and other bail reform advocates question the effectiveness of using monetary bail as a way to ensure a defendant shows up to court. She pointed to data from The Bail Project, a national nonprofit, that shows a nearly 90% return rate for people for whom they post bail.

According to a study on court appearances by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, more than 75% of defendants show up for all of their court hearings.

So thats really not a (good) justification, Akritas said. Its undisputable that the cash bail system does end up being a tax on the poor.

Lancaster County District Attorney Heather Adams said she is wary of the idea of a bail fund because she is concerned those administering it might not be aware of all the factors in a case, such as a suspects prior criminal history and the details of the alleged crime.

Adams said that while setting bail is a function of the judiciary and not her office, she does think the system is functioning well here and there are methods in place for reevaluating bail when necessary.

Bail can be adjusted

President Judge David Ashworth said that there are several points during a criminal case in which a persons bail can be adjusted if a judge feels it is unfair. Ashworth said he met with Akritas and her partners at the Central Pennsylvania Equity Project and he and they dont see eye to eye on what Lancasters bail data shows and how it should be viewed.

As I explained to them, I think it is inappropriate to apply what is going on nationally to the system here in Lancaster, he said.

The Central Pennsylvania Equity Project recently presented what it said was data showing inequity in Lancaster Countys bail system at a prison board meeting. But Ashworth said the process of setting bail is specific to the facts of each defendant and crime, and so looking at a dataset which shows a persons alleged crime, prior criminal history score and bail amount is not a good method for evaluating the system.

He said that what should be done, and is being done, by court administrators and judges is to look at cases individually, and to address specific situations when there is a problem with the amount of bail that was set.

Ashworth also said that although he did not have exact figures, very few of the pretrial detainees at Lancaster County Prison are there because they cannot pay bail.

Fund in its infancy stage

Akritas said the Lancaster Bail Fund is currently in its infancy stage. She is applying to be a project of the Alliance for Global Justice  an organization that also sponsors a Pittsburgh-based bail fund  which would enable her to collect donations under their 501c(3) designation while acquiring her own.

She is also hoping to be part of this years Extraordinary Give community fundraising event in November.

Right now were just building community relationships, She said. The main goal is not to just raise a bunch of money and start bailing people out, we are going to try to work together in the community to end pretrial incarceration.

As of Wednesday, the fund had raised close to $2,000 of its $50,000 goal on donorbox.org, but the fund has not started posting bail yet. Akritas said that at a meeting next week she and other community advocates expect to discuss how the fund could be used. And she said she is open to all ideas.

So if anyone has ideas of input on how they think this money could be used, thats going to be something I want more community input on, she said,

More information on the fund can be found on its temporary website at centralpennequityproject.org/bail-fund, on Twitter @LancBailFund, or by emailing bailfundlancaster@gmail.com.

Editor's note: An earlier version of this story misstated The Lancaster Bail Funds association with the Alliance for Global Justice. The fund is currently applying to be a project of the fund.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Sheltered in a downtown D.C. hotel, the Democratic lawmakers who left Texas to block a restrictive voting bill are living a life of stress and scrutiny.

After bolting the state Monday in order to sabotage the bill by denying a quorum in the Texas House of Representatives, the more than 50 state legislators find themselves balancing a punishing schedule of political lobbying, outside work and family obligations, all under a national spotlight.

Many have left young children behind; most have other professional obligations back in Texas. All seem to be operating on minimal sleep.

"It's surreal," said Rep. Gene Wu of Houston. I can't even describe to you how weird it has been.

Wu said he realized just how big a story their exodus had become when they arrived via private plane at Dulles airport on Monday. He overheard a group of German tourists talking in the airport about the fugitive Texas legislators.

Their goal is to hold out until the end of their special legislative session on Aug. 7, but Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott can call another special session 30 days after that. Abbott has also threatened the legislators with arrest the moment they return to Texas.

In the meantime, they're working the Capitol and the White House, seeking some sort of federal voter-protection move that would supersede any state-level laws.

The Texas State Legislature is a part-time body with an annual salary of $7,200. So the vast majority of the delegates have other primary jobs back in Texas that they abruptly left behind.

The lawmakers describe 16-hour days of essentially operating in shifts, with some working the Capitol and doing media interviews, while others carve out four hours or so to handle their other jobs.

We have a number of attorneys. Weve had several folks doing Zoom hearings, said Rep. Erin Zweiner of Austin.

The Covid-19 pandemic weirdly turned out to be an unexpected training ground, she said, since everybody is already practiced in teleworking. Without that cultural shift, a lot of peoples ability to earn a living would be severely hindered, she said.

And not everyone has a job or a business they can handle via Zoom.

Weve got a lot of practice during the pandemic, said Rep. John Bucey of Austin. But several, he said, are here at the total expense of their careers.

Bucy came to Washington with his 17-month old daughter Bradley and his wife Molly, who is 27-weeks pregnant. The trio actually drove 23-hours straight rather than fly with the other representatives because Bradley is too young to wear a facemask on a plane.

It's really hard, he said. There's no childcare here. My wife works. I work.

Zweiner came to Washington with her three-year-old daughter Lark, for both practical and sentimental reasons, she said. Her husbands work schedule didnt allow him to solo-parent and Zweiner said the idea of being away from her daughter for weeks was heart-wrenching.

Now Lark is a low-key Twitter star: the toddler attended a group meeting with New York Democratic Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand; she watched the movie Frozen on an iPad sitting on a Gillibrand staffers lap and Gillibrand gave her a U.S. Capitol coloring book.

Zweiner said Lark has been an absolute champ, but acknowledged Thursday that By day 4, shes getting a little grumpy with the process  she needs some kid time.

The balancing act is not just causing family sacrifices. Some Democrats are already paying a price back home in the Legislature, as Speaker Pro Tempore Joe Moody was stripped of his leadership position Thursday.

It is only one of the ways the Texas GOP is trying to turn up the heat just days into the showdown. Republican House Speaker Dade Phelan said he would have a plane ready in Washington this weekend to bring Democrats back home, while Abbott began running targeted campaign ads against absent lawmakers in likely competitive House districts in 2022, putting absent Democrats faces on milk cartons.

There is no excuse for their PR stunt, and I join thousands of Texans in demanding that these Democrats get back to work, Abbott said.

The non-stop meetings have been a mixed bag so far. On Thursday the Texas lawmakers huddled with Sen. Joe Manchin, a moderate West Virginia Democrat. Manchins vote is pivotal to pass the stalled voting-rights legislation through Congress, which would preempt much of the measure that Texas Republicans are advancing in their legislature.

Very good meeting, Manchin said after exiting the gathering.

But approving the bill, known as the For the People Act, also hinges on weakening a procedural rule called the filibuster, which requires 60 votes to advance most legislation in the Senate. Senate Republicans used the rule last month to block debate on the measure. And Manchin, whose vote would also be required, has rejected the idea.

Texas state Sen. Nathan Johnson, said after the meeting that Manchin, described (the For the People Act) as aspirational.

The Texas governor has accused the legislators of hanging out on a taxpayer-paid junket but the representatives defended their decision to leave the state, saying the move had already partially succeeded by shining a national spotlight on the issue.

We are not here on vacation, state Sen. Jose Menendez Id much rather be home with my family. We are here to do a job.

Representatives say they're currently too busy go out to dinner, take their kids to a museum or any of the other typical Washington-visitor activities.

I think we will get to a normal routine and a more reasonable baseline, Zweiner said, something where it's down to just 12-hour work days."

The decision to hole up in Washington is aimed at ratcheting up pressure on President Joe Biden and Congress to act on voting at the federal level. The day after they arrived, Biden delivered a speech in Philadelphia calling Republican-led efforts to curtail voting accessibility un-American and un-democratic.

About 20 of the state legislators held a press conference Wednesday, joined by a handful of Democratic Texas state senators who had flown in to offer support. Outside the downtown D.C. hotel where the contingent is living and working, about a dozen demonstrators held signs with messages like Do your job! and Who paid for the private jet?

The accusation that they're wasting public money particularly rankles. The delegation had maintained that the entire trip is being funded by donations through the state's Democratic Caucus. They're also in the midst of a public debate as to whether to decline their $221 per diems.

Some pointed out that their presence in D.C. was a personal financial disaster because of the jobs they left behind. Wu, an attorney with two young children, said he worried about making his next mortgage payment.

Our mission here, in Washington, is to use this time in this legislative session between now and Aug. 7 to say to the U.S. Senate that we need to pass federal voting rights legislation. And we need it now, said Rep. Chris Turner of Arlington, the leader of the Texas House Democrats. And were going to get into some good trouble, as best we can, while were doing it. 



AP reporters Brian Slodysko in Washington and Paul Weber in Austin contributed to this story.



Follow Khalil on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ashrafkhalil
Columbia Borough police

THEFT

COLUMBIA: A Dewalt duffel bag containing $800 in miscellaneous tools was stolen from a work van in the 300 block of Walnut Street sometime between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. on July 11, police said.

Ephrata police

INVASION OF PRIVACY

ADAMSTOWN: Shane Michael Lehman, 40, of Adamstown, was charged with two counts of criminal attempt of invasion of privacy after he was found to have surreptitiously placed a hidden camera inside a heater vent in the bathroom of a residence in the 400 block of Adamstown Road at 6:36 p.m. on March 17, police said. Lehman admitted to placing the camera with the intent of recording himself having sex with a woman in the bathroom, police said. The camera was then left in the vent for several days as multiple people used the bathroom until it was found by another person, police said.

Lancaster police

UNLAWFUL DISSEMINATION OF AN INTIMATE IMAGE

LANCASTER: Devante Robert Crosby, 28, of Lancaster Township, was charged with unlawful dissemination of an intimate image after texting a video clip of a nude woman in a shower to another person sometime before 4:14 p.m. on April 6, police said. The woman, who has a protection from abuse order against Crosby, was not aware that Crosby had the video of her and had previously warned him four times not to contact her, police said.

Lititz Borough police

CRASH

LITITZ: Lightning struck a light post in the 100 block of East Main Street, causing the light post to fall into the street, at 4:52 p.m. on July 12, police said. An approaching vehicle then struck the light pole as it was lying in the roadway, though no injuries were reported, police said.

Manheim Township police

ASSAULT

LANCASTER TWP.: Kayizha J. Glenn, 20, of Lancaster, was charged with simple assault after striking another person in the face and spitting on them in the 1600 block of Judie Lane at 12:43 p.m. on July 4, police said.

HARASSMENT

LANCASTER TWP.: Kieara A. Martinez, 19, of Lancaster, was charged with harassment after striking another person in the head during an argument in the 1600 block of Judie Lane at 12:43 p.m. on July 4, police said.

MANHEIM TWP.: Barkeley S. Beidler, 27, of Lancaster, was charged with harassment after continuing to contact a person after being repeatedly instructed to cease contact during an altercation in the 200 block of Granite Run Drive at 7:15 p.m. on July 8, police said. Beidler also dumped a bag of trash inside the persons vehicle, police said.

THEFT

MANHEIM TWP.: An unknown thief stole a $1,700 air conditioning unit from a residence under construction in the 300 block of Amber Drive sometime between June 18 and June 21, police said.

Manor Township police

HARASSMENT

MANOR TWP.: John Robertson, 28, no fixed address, was charged with harassment after making harassing calls to a business in the 2100 block of Columbia Avenue after being terminated at 8:30 a.m. on July 9, police said.

MANOR TWP.: Elix Castro-Cruz, 40, of Mountville, was charged with harassment after striking a woman, causing her to sustain a minor injury, during an argument at a residence in the 500 block of Hershey Mill Road at 5:36 p.m. on July 9, police said.

Northern Lancaster County Regional police

FRAUD

WARWICK TWP.: Amy Kristina Diem, 49, of Lititz, was charged with three counts of bad checks after presenting checks from herself on three separate occasions to Members 1st Federal Credit Union at 901 Lititz Pike and accepted payment from an account with insufficient funds, causing the back a $500 monetary loss, on July 13, police said.

Northwest Regional police

HARASSMENT

MOUNT JOY TWP.: John Phillip Dressler, 39, who is homeless, was charged with three counts of harassment, stalking and unlawful restraint after preventing a woman from leaving a motel room by grabbing her by the arms and pushing her away from the door at the Red Rose Motel at 2346 South Market Street before he was separated by another motel guest at 2:25 a.m. on July 13, police said. Dressler then sent 57 text messages to the woman over the course of about three hours, the vast majority of which were highly vulgar and disparaging sexually related comments, police said. The woman did not respond to any of Dresslers messages, police said.

Pequea Township police

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF

PEQUEA TWP.: Alexan Rodriguez, 30, of Lancaster, was charged with criminal mischief after damaging a security camera outside a home on Hamels Court at 3:15 p.m. on June 13, police said.

THEFT

PEQUEA TWP.: Several unlocked vehicles were entered on Autumn Way in the Penn Grant Commons neighborhood in the West Willow Area during the night of July 13-14, police said. One vehicle which had the key fob was stolen but later recovered in the same development, while a firearm and ammunition was stolen from another vehicle and has not yet been recovered, police said.
U.S. Rep. Lloyd Smucker will attend a town hall-style meeting tonight in Elizabethtown hosted by a local conservative group, an event thats billed as being open to all patriots and anyone that loves freedom.

Smucker is appearing at the invitation of the Free PA Capital Area chapter, whose conservative members are likely to provide a receptive audience for the Republican lawmaker. A notice published on the groups Facebook page says journalists are not allowed to cover the event, and attendees are barred from recording the event on video or audio.

Free PA's statewide network was born out of frustrations over the pandemic lockdowns and former President Donald Trump's loss in the 2020 election. Its members now champion a range of conservative views, from supporting state Sen. Doug Mastriano's efforts to conduct a partisan audit of the election to opposing the COVID-19 vaccination effort. Members are also active in pressing local school districts to ban teaching of critical race theory and bar transgender athletes from playing on sports teams.

While its not unusual for lawmakers to accept invitations from private groups, tonights event fits a pattern Smucker has followed since he was first elected to Congress in 2016. Instead of hosting public forums open to any of his constituents, Smucker opts for telephone town hall events that most constituents get no advance notice of. In fact, he hasnt hosted an in-person town hall since April 2014, when he was a member of the Pennsylvania Senate, according to a review of LNP | LancasterOnline archives and Smuckers social media accounts and websites.

Limiting access to forums hosted by lawmakers isnt unique to Smucker, especially over the past few decades when town hall meetings were targeted by activist groups hoping to embarrass politicians.

Still, Smuckers predecessor, former U.S. Rep. Joe Pitts, hosted town halls regularly during his nearly 20-year-long tenure, including contentious ones during the debate over health care reform that saw angry attendees demand that Pitts do more to block socialized health care, according to LNP | LancasterOnline archives.

And U.S. Rep. Scott Perry, the Republican representing the neighboring 10th District, held at least one public town hall in 2019 that drew supporters and opponents alike, WITF reported at the time. Perry, unlike Smucker, represents a more closely divided district and was a top target of Democrats in 2020.

Phoning it in

Instead of in-person forums, Smucker has made frequent use of tele-town halls during his four-and-a-half years in the House -- more than 50 in all, his office said. But constituents in the 11th Congressional District, made up of Lancaster and southern York counties, often get no warning of when hes hosting a call-in meeting, and dial-in information is not widely advertised ahead of time.

For the phone forums, a random group of constituents receives an automated call from Smuckers office instructing them to remain on the line to listen to the town hall. Recordings of these calls are not made available afterwards, so respondents who are busy or hang up part way through a call have no option to replay it later.

Smuckers office said tele-town halls are often targeted to people living in specific parts of the district. Since the start of the pandemic, his office said the congressman has held at least one telephone forum each month. His office will call anywhere from tens of thousands of residents to hundreds of thousands of them, according to Eric Reath, Smuckers spokesperson.

Reath said constituents cant call into the telephone forums due to limited technology, but those who wish to participate can use the contact form on Smuckers website to request to be added to the next tele-town hall. Calls are scheduled based on Smuckers voting schedule that month, Reath said. During a tele-town hall, attendees can signal that theyd like to ask the congressman a question, and his staff working behind the scenes can select individual callers to voice their questions.

Smucker is not alone in using tele-town halls to speak with a large number of voters. But other lawmakers advertise their phone forums ahead of time and offer call-in information to anyone who wants to participate. Thats the practice of Smuckers Pennsylvania colleague, U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, R-Lebanon, who hosted a tele-town hall as recently as April.

More recently, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted elected officials to find new ways to engage with residents, with some holding drive-in town halls, including Pennsylvania Democrat Sen. Bob Casey.

Smucker's office did not indicate whether the congressman plans to host any in-person town hall events in the near future, and there are no plans for one publicly available as of publication of this story.

Best practices

When done right, town halls offer an opportunity to bring people together and reduce polarization, said Adam Lawrence, a government and political affairs professor and director of the Walker Center for Civic Responsibility and Leadership at Millersville University.

Its fair to expect our elected officials to meet with and respond to citizens from all walks of life, of all political stripe, regardless of their opinions, Lawrence said. Democracy is not supposed to be conducted in a form in which elected officials only meet with those that support them.

Hes from a super safe district, hes an incumbent, Lawrence said. Its going to be extremely difficult to unseat him. Theres really little for him to gain to hold these things But there are plenty of safe incumbents who hold these things regularly. I dont think we should necessarily let him off the hook. Citizens should expect their elected officials to hold town halls.

Smuckers office said he regularly meets with constituents with a variety of viewpoints, and he will meet with anyone in his district, no matter their point of view. And the congressman provides responses to inquiries about his votes by letter, though some constituents complain that these are automated responses that do not take their input seriously.

Smucker didnt always avoid hosting public forums open to all constituents, holding some when he represented southern Lancaster County in the state Senate from 2009 to 2016.

In 2012, Smucker pointed to his town hall meetings as a reason why he would not appear at a debate with his Democratic challenger.

My Senate schedule and own town hall meetings allow me to have a great deal of contact with my constituents, Smucker wrote in response to his Democratic challenger, Tom OBriens, invitation.

During the 2018 midterm election, Smucker was criticized for not holding town halls in his first House term. That year, Jamie Beth Schindler wrote a column in LNP | LancasterOnline about wanting to bring her two children to a congressional town hall to learn more about being an informed member of their democracy  something she said was instilled in her by her dad, who taught civics.

As an alternative to hosting an in-person town hall, Smucker invited Schindler, 45, of Mountville, and her kids to a private meeting with him at his district office.

A one-on-one meeting has its place, but it doesnt replace a town hall, Schindler said. What it showed them was that their congressman has talking points that they stick to, regardless of where the conversation might go.

Schindler said she wouldnt attend an in-person town hall at this time if Smucker began hosting them, noting that her children are too young to be vaccinated. But if it werent for COVID-19, she would attend them frequently.

Accessibility to everyone in the community, regardless of whether they voted for him or not, in a public setting aids transparency and the democratic process, Schindler said.

Editor's note: An earlier version of this story misrepresented Schindler's children. She has a son and daughter.
When: Supervisors meeting, July 8.

What happened: Supervisors discussed actions they will take to address the problem of frequent power outages in the township, primarily in Bainbridge.

Background: Chairman Steve Mohr said July 9 there are up to two power outages per week in the township. One recent outage lasted six to eight hours. Mohr said Met-Ed marked dead trees for removal a few years ago, but the trees have yet to be taken down. Thousands of trees need to be removed, he said. However, supervisors said trees do not always cause the outages. Mohr said the most frequent outages affect Race Street to Front Street in Bainbridge.

Whats next: Township solicitor Matthew Creme will write a letter to Met-Ed documenting the outages and requesting the power company take steps to prevent frequent outages, including tree trimming. If Met-Ed doesnt comply, the township will file a formal complaint with the Pennsylvania Utility Commission.

Budget: After reviewing a year-to-date budget update provided by Secretary-Treasurer Kathy Hipple, Vice Chair Justin Risser said the townships engineering/general consulting expenses are high so far. The township has spent $21,285 on engineering/general consulting this year compared to $22,641 in all of last year, Hipple said by phone July 9. Risser expressed concern about securing funding for upcoming projects, including the repair and replacement of the Governor Stable Road bridges. Supervisors discussed approaching Perdue Agribusiness for a charitable contribution for the bridge projects. They also directed office assistant Ed Haugh to seek grants to help pay for infrastructure. Currently, the township does not charge residents real estate taxes.

Quotable: Real estate tax is not the answer for your infrastructure, Mohr said. Let that be known.

Other business: Mohr and Hipple reported that Impact Missions, a Christian housing ministry, will help a property owner at the corner of Apple Alley and Chestnut Street with demolition work and trash removal. Mohr said neighbors have complained about the house, part of which is falling apart, as well as excessive trash on the property. The group intends to remove all the trash by the end of September with the help of local church youth groups.

New top cop: Mohr introduced A.J. Hall, Susquehanna Regional Police Departments new chief. He replaces Haugh, who recently retired and now works part time in the township office. Hall, a Lancaster native who lives in Mount Wolf, has been with Susquehanna Regional since 2002. He previously worked for Lancaster city police for nine years. Halls salary is $102,000, of which Conoy Township pays a portion.
THE ISSUE

A Pennsylvania state lawmaker and ardent supporter of former President Donald Trump is launching a forensic investigation of the states 2020 presidential election, demanding cooperation from counties and mimicking a widely criticized partisan effort in Arizona, The Associated Press reported last week. State Sen. Doug Mastriano, R-Franklin County, issued letters to three counties July 7, giving officials there a sweeping information request, with the threat of subpoenas for holdouts who do not respond affirmatively by Julys end. The effort is facing strident opposition from Democrats, and any Senate-issued subpoenas for a partisan Arizona-style election audit will almost certainly be challenged in Pennsylvanias courts.

The 2020 presidential election is over. It was over eight months ago. Joe Biden is the president; he won Pennsylvania by a margin of more than 80,000 votes.

The so-called Big Lie  the false claim that the election was stolen from Donald Trump  sadly continues to be perpetuated. But the reality is this: Trump is the former president and theres no constitutional mechanism that would magically reinstate him except for another presidential election three years from now, should he choose to run.

Republican state senators like Ryan Aument, of Mount Joy, and Scott Martin, of Martic Township, know this.

We have no idea whether state Sen. Doug Mastriano knows it because hes a QAnon-promoting conspiracy theorist who organized a bus trip to the Trump rally that preceded  and instigated  the violent Jan. 6 insurrection. Hes also, unfortunately, chair of the state Senate Intergovernmental Operations Committee.

Forget about unnecessarily performing another audit of the November vote. Instead, we ought to audit Mastrianos motives: He likely will seek the GOP gubernatorial nomination next year, so hes clearly willing to say or do anything to win the support of Trump and the Trump base.

According to the AP, Mastriano recently briefed Republicans in the state Senate about his plan to bring an Arizona-style audit to Pennsylvania.

Wed like to think his proposal was met with mocking laughter and a chorus of hell, no. The Arizona audit, conducted by a private company called Cyber Ninjas (because you really cant make this stuff up), has been panned, even by some Arizona Republicans, as a botched and anti-democratic, partisan sham. (Note: We use the term audit loosely in our references to it in this editorial.)

Alas, Pennsylvania state Sen. Camera Bartolotta, R-Washington County, told the AP that she doesnt know the details of Mastrianos plan, but, I do know that there are millions of Pennsylvanians who have questions and concerns and there is a lack of trust.

As weve said repeatedly, if there are concerns and a lack of trust among Pennsylvanians regarding the electoral process, thats because some Republicans have ginned up fears about voting  mail-in voting, in particular  in support of the Big Lie and hastily created legislation that they hoped would give them an electoral advantage. (That legislation rightly was vetoed by Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf.)

It must be stated again  and apparently, again and again and again: No evidence of widespread voter fraud has been found that might have altered the election outcome in Pennsylvania or any other state. This has been confirmed by Trumps former election cybersecurity chief, former Attorney General William Barr and numerous Republican elections officials.

Republicans were not able to find evidence of fraud, so they took baseless claims of election irregularities and inconsistencies to the courts, which mostly rejected those claims. (In a couple of Pennsylvania cases, however, Republican voters were charged with using the identities of their dead mothers in order to vote in the 2020 election. Fortunately, the culprits were caught. The system worked.)

The funding behind the Arizona audit is shadowy  which strikes us as problematic  and Maricopa County, where the audit is taking place, will need to spend millions to replace the voting equipment that was compromised by the Cyber Ninjas review.

In Pennsylvania, as The Philadelphia Inquirer reported, Mastriano sent letters last week to Philadelphia, Tioga and York counties seeking election-related equipment and materials needed to conduct a forensic investigation of the 2020 election and the 2021 primary.

Mastrianos requests were sprawling and include essentially all election-related materials, such as ballots, mail ballot applications, mail ballot envelopes, voting machines, ballot scanners and vote-counting equipment, ballot production equipment, poll books, and computer equipment used throughout the election process, the Inquirer noted.

The letters warned that the Senate committee Mastriano chairs may issue subpoenas if counties dont respond by July 31 with a plan to comply.

Pennsylvania acting Secretary of State Veronica Degraffenreid then issued a directive Friday prohibiting third-party access to electronic voting systems. Such access, she said in a news release, would undermine chain of custody requirements and strict access limitations necessary to prevent both intentional and inadvertent tampering with electronic voting systems.

The state, she said, would decertify any voting equipment handed over to a third party, meaning that it couldnt be used in an election, and would not reimburse a county for equipment replacement.

In response, the AP reported Wednesday, one of the three Pennsylvania counties targeted by Mastriano  Republican-controlled Tioga County  decided against allowing access to its voting equipment.

These are extremely expensive machines and our position is we need to follow the direction that the secretary has given us, Tioga County solicitor Christopher Gabriel said, according to the AP.

Commissioners Chairman Roger Bunn said the county had audited the 2020 presidential election according to state law requirements and had found no problems with it before certifying the results.

We expect that Philadelphia also will deny access to its voting equipment, and we hope York County does the same.

If, having struck out in those counties, Mastriano eyes Lancaster County, we have faith that commissioners Chairman Josh Parsons will slam the door here, too. Parsons, a Republican, preaches fiscal prudence.

And as Gov. Wolf noted on Twitter, Mastrianos proposed audit is a profound waste of time and taxpayer money.

On the subject of taxpayer money: LNP | LancasterOnline reported earlier this week that all but three county school districts  Columbia Borough, Donegal and Warwick  are raising property taxes this year.

If the Republican-controlled state Senate wants to address a genuine problem facing its constituents  instead of wasting time and money revisiting the accurate results of a legitimate election  it would tackle property tax reform.

That would not help former President Trump, but it would help Pennsylvania seniors on fixed incomes.

And state lawmakers might find themselves so busy doing actual and necessary work that theyll leave our democracy intact.
Summer can be tricky with a little one. Under 6 months? They cannot wear sunscreen. Under 2 months? No bug spray. Under 12  18 months? No blankets in the crib. Planning on swimming? Better have swim diapers.

All of these restrictions may be overwhelming if you just want to go outside and enjoy the summer. Luckily, there are a TON of products on Amazon that allow you to do just that. I highly recommend all of these products. They helped my little one and me enjoy her first summer while keeping her safe and protected.

Plus, all of the items on this list make great baby shower gifts for the expecting parent.

A quality baby carrier is important for any time of the year, but especially for the summer. This #1 best seller in the Soft Baby Carrier category from Amazon is made of lightweight mesh fabric that allows airflow to keep parent and baby cool in these hot, sweltering summer months  especially if you want to take a walk or run errands, but do not want to drag along a big, bulky stroller.

The Infantino carrier features extra-padded breathable shoulder straps for parents while also providing head support for baby. The waist belt is adjustable to offer the right fit with lumbar support, and fits all body shapes according to customer reviews on Amazon. The ergonomic M seat position also supports baby in the proper position.

The carriers minimum weight recommendation is 8 pounds and has a maximum weight recommendation of 40 pounds. As your little one grows, you can convert from facing-in folded seat to facing-in expanded seat, facing-out, or back carry.

Purchase the Infantino Advanced 4-in-1 Light & Airy Convertible from Amazon by clicking here

I cannot rave about these swaddle blankets enough, especially for a summer baby! They are lightweight and soft, and made of a single layer of 100% natural cotton muslin that is super breathable to keep your little one cool. Their breathability also keeps your baby safe from overheating.

At 44 x 44, they are large enough to drape over car seats or strollers to keep the hot sun off their skin. Or to swaddle them in without them getting too hot. They are also durable and hold up to many, many washings. In fact, my daughters used theirs well into their toddler years so they are worth the investment for the four-pack of blankets.

Purchase the aden + anais essentials Swaddle Blanket from Amazon by clicking here.

Having a stroller fan for my daughters first trip to the beach was a game changer. I kept her under a canopy, which was great, but it had blocked the breeze. With a fan to help circulate the air, she was still able to stay cool. It is great for car rides too when rear facing seats do not always get the circulating air from the vents.

This fan comes on a flexible tripod, so it can be mounted anywhere  car seats, strollers, or even car head rests if you want to keep it out babys reach. It has three speeds, LED lights for nighttime, and a fan cover designed to keep little fingers out and away from the blades. You will not need to worry about batteries since this fan has a rechargeable battery that lasts from 2.5 to 10 hours and recharges with a USB cord.

Purchase the battery operated stroller fan from Amazon by clicking here

Sunscreen is not recommended for babies under the age of six months. So finding the right sun protection if you want to spend time outdoors is very important. One of the best things you can invest in is a hat with a wide brim and neck coverage.

The i Play hat on Amazon provides just that. Not only does it provide 50+ UPF sun protection, but it is comfortable for baby with a wicking liner for comfort and quick-dry material for active play. It also features an adjustable toggle for a custom fit and allows it to grow with your little one.

Purchase the i Play hat from Amazon by clicking here

Most window shades for vehicles are the pull-down style that attaches with suction cups. While they can provide great sun protection, they often do not cover the whole window. Sometimes the suction cups lose suction and fall off during car rides, leaving your baby with no sun protection. Not to mention, there is no way you can put the window down with one of them attached.

A great alternative is the Munchkin Brica Magnetic Stretch to Fit Sun Shade. One 14 x 28 shade stretches to 18 x 34, providing full coverage on most vehicle windows. It also attaches with magnets to the car doorframe, so you do not have to worry about it sliding or losing suction and falling off.

The best part about the Brica Sun Shade is you can still roll your window down while the shade is attached, since it is attaches to the doorframe and not the window itself. The shade blocks harmful UV-A and UV-B rays and glare but does not obstruct the view. An important safety feature for the driver of the vehicle so it does not create blind spots.

Purchase the Munchkin Brica Magnetic Stretch to Fit Sun Shade by clicking here

Bug spray is not recommended for babies under two months old. So what can parents do if they want to hit up a walking trail or park in the evening during those buggy summer months? Your best bet is a mosquito net for your babys stroller.

This mosquito net from Amazon stretches to fit most standard strollers, double strollers, and car seats. It can also be used for pack and plays and play yards if you want to spend the evening outside.

It is machine washable and easy to store in a diaper bag to take with you anywhere. It is a simple item worth having on hand to keep mosquitos, bees, flies, and other bugs away from your baby while you enjoy the summer weather.

Purchase this Mosquito Net for Strollers from Amazon by clicking here

The more uses you can get out of one product, the better, since that means less stuff to haul around in a diaper bag or your vehicle. One of my favorite products are these versatile covers. They serve as a nursing cover, car seat cover, and shopping cart cover. When you are not using it, it can be worn as a scarf or thrown in the diaper bag to keep handy while you are out and about.

Each cover is made of extra wide, ultra-stretchy and breathable fabric  providing maximum airflow for parent and baby. The pattern is also a neutral gray color, so it will coordinate with other patterns and fabrics well.

This Dodo Babies Nursing Cover comes as a set and includes a matching pacifier holder, two pacifier clips, and comes packaged in a reusable gift bag  making it a great shower gift for the expecting parent.

Pick up the Dodo Babies Nursing Cover from Amazon by clicking here

You may think you can get away with using a regular diaper for the pool, but trust me, you cannot. Regular diapers swell and turn into a waterlogged mess as soon as they hit the water. And once your little one is out, the weight of the absorbed water makes the diaper sag to the point of falling off. Plus, most public pools will require swim diapers for any child that is not potty-trained.

Huggies Little Swimmers disposable swim diapers may seem pricey for such a small pack, but if you plan to hit the water with your little one, they are well worth it. They have stretchy sides for comfort and are made of a unique absorbent material that will not swell like regular diapers. When your little one is done in the water, simply tear the sides for quick changing.

Since most parents may be so focused on stocking up on regular diapers, swim diapers may not even cross their mind. Grabbing them a pack or two as a baby shower gift is a great idea.

Pick up a pack of Huggies Little Swimmers Disposable Swim Diapers from Amazon by clicking here

Sometimes, you just need to put your baby down. It gets hot and sweaty carrying a little one around, and they get heavy. While putting them in a car seat or stroller is always an option, some babies do not enjoy that and they do not always get the best airflow. So what does a parent do if they are hanging out outside, camping, at the beach, etc.?

Invest in a portable play yard. You will not regret it. The Regalo My Play Deluxe Portable Play Yard opens to 48 x 48 x 26, but folds up small enough in size like a folding lawn chair with a carrying strap. It is also lightweight at just under 14 pounds unlike bulky pack and plays. The sides are made of a mesh see-through material, and comes with a canopy to keep bugs out and block the sun. This play yard can grow with your baby and can be used from ages six to 24 months. It is also easy to wash down between uses.

Purchase the Regalo My Play Deluxe Portable Play Yard that is great for indoor and outdoor use from Amazon by clicking here

Since it is recommended that babies not use blankets in their cribs, due to SIDS, until the ages of 12  18 months, these wearable sleeveless blankets are wonderful for summer nights when the air conditioning is cranked in your home. That air can be chilly, and these blankets help keep your little one covered while still staying safe.

Made of 100% natural cotton, they are lightweight and breathable. The full-length zipper allows baby to kick around and have coverage on their legs without the risk of becoming tangled up and moving the blanket up to their face, as they could with loose blankets. The zipper also comes in handy for those middle of the night diaper changes when you dont want to fumble around with a bunch of those little snaps,

Pick up a two-pack of Elys & Co. 100% Cotton Wearable Blankets from Amazon by clicking here

This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase one of these items, we may receive a commission.
This editorial appears in the July 16, 2021 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.

EDITORIAL

Afghanistan at a Crossroads:

Graveyard for Empires or

Start of a New Era?

[Print version of this editorial]

July 10After the hasty withdrawal of U.S. and NATO troops from AfghanistanU.S. troops, except for a few security forces, were flown out in the dark of night without informing Afghan alliesthis country has become, for the moment but likely not for long, the theater of world history. The news keeps pouring in: On the ground, the Taliban forces are making rapid territorial gains in the north and northeast of the country, which has already caused considerable tension and concern in Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, and they have captured the western border town Islam Qala, which handles significant trade flows with Iran. At the same time, intense diplomatic activity is ongoing among all those countries whose security interests are affected by the events in Afghanistan: Iran, Pakistan, India, Russia, China, to name only the most important.

Can an intra-Afghan solution be found? Can a civil war between the Afghan government and the Taliban be prevented? Can terrorist groups, such as ISIS, which is beginning to regain a hold in the north, and Al-Qaeda, be disbanded? Or will the war between Afghan factions continue, and with it the expansion of opium growing and export, and the global threat of Islamic terrorism? Will Afghanistan once again sink into violence and chaos, and become a threat not only to Russia and China, but even to the United States and Europe?

If these questions are to be answered in a positive sense, it is crucial that the United States and Europe first answer the question, with brutal honesty, of how the war in Afghanistan became such a catastrophic failure, a war waged for a total of 20 years by the United States, the strongest military power in the world, together with military forces from 50 other nations. More than 3,000 soldiers of NATO and allied forces, including 59 German soldiers, and a total of 180,000 people, including 43,000 civilians, lost their lives. This was at a financial cost for the U.S. of more than $2 trillion, and of 47 billion for Germany. Twenty years of horror in which, as is customary in war, all sides were involved in atrocities with destructive effects on their own lives, including the many soldiers who came home with post-traumatic stress disorders and have not been able to cope with life since. The Afghan civilian population, after ten years of war with the Soviets in the 1980s followed by a small break, then had to suffer another 20 years of war with an almost unimaginable series of torments.

It was clear from the start that this war could not be won. Implementation of NATOs mutual defense clause under Article 5 after the 9/11 terrorist attacks was based on the assumption that Osama bin Laden and the Taliban regime were behind those attacks, which would thus justify the war in Afghanistan.

But as U.S. Senator Bob Graham, the Chairman of the Congressional Joint Inquiry into Intelligence Community Activities Before and After the Terrorist Attacks of September 11, 2001, repeatedly pointed out in 2014, the then-last two U.S. presidents, Bush and Obama, suppressed the truth about who had commissioned 9/11. And it was only because of that suppression that the threat to the world from ISIS then became possible. Graham said at a November 11, 2014 meeting in Florida:

There continue to be some untold stories, some unanswered questions about 9/11. Maybe the most fundamental question is: Was 9/11 carried out by 19 individuals, operating in isolation, who, over a period of 20 months, were able to take the rough outlines of a plan that had been developed by Osama bin Laden, and convert it into a detailed working plan; to then practice that plan; and finally, to execute an extremely complex set of assignments? Lets think about those 19 people. Very few of them could speak English. Very few of them had even been in the United States before. The two chairs of the 9/11 Commission, Tom Kean and Lee Hamilton, have said that they think it is highly improbable that those 19 people could have done what they did, without some external support during the period that they were living in the United States. I strongly concur. Where did they get their support?

This question has still not been answered in a satisfactory manner. The passing of the JASTA Act (Justice Against State Sponsors of Terrorism) in the U.S., the disclosure of the 28 previously classified pages of the Joint Congressional Inquiry report into 9/11 that were kept secret for so long, and the lawsuit that the families of the 9/11 victims filed against the Saudi government delivered sufficient evidence of the actual financial support for the attacks. But the investigation of all these leads was delayed with bureaucratic means.

The only reason the inconsistencies around 9/11 are mentioned here, is to point to the fact that the entire definition of the enemy in this war was, in fact, wrong from the start. In a white paper on Afghanistan published by the BuSo (Civil Rights Movement Solidarity in Germany) in 2010, we pointed out that a war in which the goal has not been correctly defined, can hardly be won, and we demanded, at the time, the immediate withdrawal of the German Army.

Once the Washington Post published the 2,000-page Afghanistan Papers in 2019 first under the title At War with the Truth, at the latest, this war should have ended. They revealed that this war had been an absolute disaster from the start, and that all the statements made by the U.S. military about the alleged progress made were deliberate lies. The investigative journalist Craig Whitlock, who published the results of his three years of research, including the use of documents obtained under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), and statements from 400 insiders, demonstrated the absolute incompetence with which this war was waged.

Then, there were the stunning statements of Lt. Gen. Douglas Lute, the Afghanistan czar under the Bush and Obama administrations, who in an internal hearing before the Office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction in 2014 had said:

We were devoid of a fundamental understanding of Afghanistanwe didnt know what we were doing. What are we trying to do here? We didnt have the foggiest notion of what we were undertaking. If the American people knew the magnitude of this dysfunction  who would say that it was all in vain?

After these documents were published, nothing happened. The war continued. President Trump attempted to bring the troops home, but his attempt was essentially undermined by the U.S. military. Its only now, that the priority has shifted to the Indo-Pacific and to the containment of China and the encirclement of Russia that this absolutely pointless war was ended, at least as far as the participation of foreign forces is concerned.

September 11th brought the world not only the Afghanistan War but also the Patriot Act a few weeks later, and with it the pretext for the surveillance state that Edward Snowden has shed light on. The Patriot Act revoked a significant part of the civil rights that were among the most outstanding achievements of the American Revolution, and enshrined in the U.S. Constitution, and it undermined the nature of the United States as a republic.

At the same time, the five principles of peaceful coexistence, which are the essence of international law and of the UN Charter, were replaced by an increasing emphasis on the rules-based order, which reflects the interests and the defense of the privileges of the trans-Atlantic establishment. Tony Blair had already set the tone for such a rejection of the principles of the Peace of Westphalia and international law two years earlier in his infamous speech in Chicago, which provided the theoretical justification for the endless warsi.e., the interventionist wars carried out under the pretext of the responsibility to protect (R2P), a new kind of crusade, in which Western values, democracy and human rights are supposed to be transferredwith swords or with drones and bombsto cultures and nations that come from completely different civilizational traditions.

Therefore, the disastrous failure of the Afghanistan warafter the failure of the previous ones, the Vietnam war, the Iraq war, the Libya war, the Syria war, the Yemen warmust urgently become the turning point for a complete shift in direction from the past 20 years.

Since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic at the very latest, an outbreak that was absolutely foreseeable and that Lyndon LaRouche had forecast in principle as early as 1973, a fundamental debate should have been launched on the flawed axiomatics of the Western liberal model. The privatization of all aspects of healthcare systems has certainly brought lucrative profits to investors, but the economic damage inflicted, and the number of deaths and long-term health problems have brutally exposed the weak points of these systems.

The strategic turbulence caused by the withdrawal of NATO troops from Afghanistan, offers an excellent opportunity for a reassessment of the situation, for a correction of political direction and a new solution-oriented policy. The long tradition of geopolitical manipulation of this region, in which Afghanistan represents in a certain sense the interface, from the 19th Century Great Game of the British Empire to the arc of crisis of Bernard Lewis and Zbigniew Brzezinski, must be buried once and for all, never to be revived. Instead, all the neighbors in the regionRussia, China, India, Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, the Gulf States and Turkeymust be integrated into an economic development strategy that represents a common interest among these countries, one that is defined by a higher order, and is more attractive than the continuation of the respective supposed national interests.

This higher level represents the development of a trans-national infrastructure, large-scale industrialization and modern agriculture for the whole of Southwest Asia, as it was presented in 1997 by EIR and the Schiller Institute in special reports and then in the study The New Silk Road Becomes the World Land-Bridge. There is also a comprehensive Russian study from 2014, which Russia intended to present at a summit as a member of the G8, before it was excluded from that group.

In February of this year, the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Uzbekistan agreed on the construction of a railway line from Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, via Mazar-e-Sharif and Kabul, Afghanistan, to Peshawar in Pakistan. An application for funding from the World Bank was submitted in April. At the same time, the construction of a highway, the Khyber Pass Economic Corridor, between Peshawar, Kabul and Dushanbe was agreed to by Pakistan and Afghanistan. It will serve as a continuation of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a showcase project of the Chinese BRI.

These transportation lines must be developed into effective development corridors and an east-west connection between China, Central Asia, Russia, and Europe as well as a north-south infrastructure network from Russia, Kazakhstan and China to Gwadar, Pakistan on the Arabian Seaall need to be implemented.

All these projects pose considerable engineering challengesjust consider the totally rugged landscape of large parts of Afghanistanbut the shared vision of overcoming poverty and underdevelopment combined with the expertise and cooperation of the best engineers in China, Russia, the U.S.A., and Europe really can move mountains in a figurative sense. The combination of the World Bank, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) New Development Bank, New Silk Road Fund, and national lenders could provide the necessary lines of credit.

Such a development perspective, including for agriculture, would also provide an alternative to the massive drug production plaguing this region. At this point, over 80% of global opium production comes from Afghanistan, and about 10% of the local population is currently addicted, while Russia not so long ago defined its biggest national security problem as drug exports from Afghanistan, which as of 2014 was killing 40,000 people per year in Russia. The realization of an alternative to drug cultivation is in the fundamental interest of the entire world.

The Covid-19 pandemic and the risk of further pandemics have dramatically underscored the need to build modern health systems in every single country on Earth, if we are to prevent the most neglected countries from becoming breeding grounds for new mutations, which would defeat all the efforts made so far. The construction of modern hospitals, the training of doctors and nursing staff, and the necessary infrastructural prerequisites are therefore just as much in the interests of all political groups in Afghanistan and of all countries in the region, as of the so-called developed countries.

For all these reasons, the future development of Afghanistan represents a fork in the road for all mankind. At the same time, it is a perfect demonstration of the opportunity that lies in the application of the Cusan principle of the Coincidentia Oppositorum, the coincidence of opposites. Remaining on the level of the contradictions in the supposed interests of all the nations concernedIndia-Pakistan, China-U.S.A., Iran-Saudi Arabia, Turkey-Russiathere are no solutions.

If, on the other hand, one considers the common interests of allovercoming terrorism and the drug plague, lasting victory over the dangers of pandemics, ending the refugee crisesthen the solution is obvious. The most important aspect, however, is the question of the path we as humanity choosewhether we want to plunge further into a dark age, and potentially even risk our existence as a species, or whether we want to shape a truly human century together. In Afghanistan, it holds true more than anywhere else in the world: The new name for peace is development!
This article appears in the July 16, 2021 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.

[Print version of this article]

Eulogy for Thomas H. Wysmuller

(May 10, 1944 to June 29, 2021)

When the clouds are full,

And the tempest master

Lets the loud winds sweep

From his bosom deep

Like heralds of some dire disaster,





Then the heart alone

To itself makes moan;

And the songs come slow,

While the tears fall fleeter,

And silence than song by far seems sweeter.





Oh, few are they along the way

Who sing when skies are gray!

I met Tom in 2015 at the tenth Heartland Institute Conference on Climate Change in Washington, D.C., where he gave a slide show that the sky wasnt falling and the sea wasnt rising. He came around giving his contact cards to everyone at my table. We met again in the hall and soon found we were kindred spiritsboth of us were born in Holland under Nazi occupation; his family emigrated to the U.S. in 1948. The name Wysmuller is the anglicized form of the Dutch Wijsmuller.

Tom attended public schools in New York City, graduating from Bayside High School in 1961. His early jobs involved summers in the Netherlands working on the familys ocean-going tug and salvage business and stints as a meteorologist at the Royal Dutch Weather Bureau. Tom went on to attend New York University (BA, 1966), The New School for Social Research, Long Island University, and Stanford University. His ties to NYU remained strong, having become Director of and Acting President of their Medallion Society, and eventually President and a multi-decadal director of NYUs Alumni Association for all of NYUs schools. In 2017, Tom arranged for Jason Ross, a Schiller Institute Science Adviser, to address the NYU Tandon School of Engineering, on the New Silk Road.

In 1968, Tom was one of nine people chosen through a series of nationwide exams for NASA Executive Interns in the U.S. He worked at NASA before, during, and after the Moon landings. His programming skills were so well-known throughout the agency that at one point he was the youngest person ever selected to serve on NASAs Source Selection Board for agency-wide computer services.

In 2009 he co-founded the NASA TRCS (The Right Climate Stuff) research group. He considered it one of his greatest achievements when in 2018, he solved the discrepancy of Sea-Level Rise (SLR) reported by the University of Colorados and NASAs Satellites in comparison to land-coupled tide gauges. His reverse-engineering technique showed how a programming error generated the much higher rate of SLR being reported by satellites vs. world-wide tide gauge measurements.

Tom was deeply concerned with the poor of the world and specifically for the African countries, who were slated for genocide under climate guru policies. He was committed to a huge expansion of nuclear energy and advanced technology worldwide, especially because he thought that Mars moon Phobos would be an ideal jumping off point for moving humanity further out into the solar system.

A novel was written about his grandfathers heroism, sailing ocean-going tugs in the worst of weathers to save ships and lives; it was soon banned by the Nazis. His great-aunt, Tante Truus, risked her own life numerous times to save thousands of Jewish refugee children, members of the Dutch Resistance movement, and others whose lives were in danger under Nazi occupation.

In 2012, Toms oncologist gave him only a year to live. But Tom had a mission and continued to debunk the climate hysteria, and prevent its deadly policiesfor nine more years. He traveled the world, using slides to show the very slow, linear rise in sea level that has been steady since the end of the Little Ice Age. Over the years, he gave numerous presentations including in Porto, Portugal; London, England; Greece, Delft Technical University, and chaired Water Day at UNESCOs IHE Delft Institute for Water Education. He addressed the German Parliament, the 24th World Conference on Climate Change in Rome, and had the honor of chairing the Oceanography Section of the World Congress on Oceans in Qingdao, China.

His meeting with Lyndon and Helga LaRouche in 2015 gave expanded scope to his mission. He understood the urgency of getting the U.S.A. to accept the invitation from China to join the One Belt, One Road program. Tom was among the first climate dissidents with the courage to call for the complete exoneration of Lyndon LaRouche.

In the last five years of his life, he probably put more than 2 million miles on various cars and vans, driving from his home in Maine, to meetings with UN officials, to medical appointments in Texas, where he always took the occasion to visit with his NASA friends. One of his personal highlights was a January 26, 2016 joint appearance with Helga Zepp-LaRouche at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., in an EIR forum on the topic, Only a Scientific and Cultural Renaissance Can Stop a new Dark Age.

Tom believed that he lived in the Golden Age of Humanity, due to our collective developments of technologies, exploration of our solar system, and awareness of ourselves, the Earth, and our Universe.

Humanity has explored the Earth to greater heights, the depths of the oceans, the mysteries of our genetic make up and much more. What an exciting time to have contributed to our knowledge and wisdom!

Tom passed away on the morning of June 29. He is survived by his son, John; his daughter, Jannine; his brother, Allan; his son-in-law, Aziz, and step-grand-daughter, Laila; many cousins, nieces, and nephews; and countless friends. He was predeceased by his wife, Catherine, and his brother, Andrew.

He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
This article appears in the July 16, 2021 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.

Frederic k Douglas s: A Constitutionalist Speaks the Fourth of July

[Print version of this article]

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July 3This Fourth of July, Helga Zepp-LaRouches call for a worldwide health platform to fight pandemics, involving the collaboration of Russia, China, India, and the United States, among other nations, may help Americans remember the international characteristic of the American Revolution, from Frances Marquis de Lafayette, Germanys Baron von Steuben, and Polands Casimir Pulaski and Thaddeus Kosciuszko, to the monarchs Catherine the Great of Russia and Carlos III of Spain. It may also call to mind that revolutionary world mission that Franklin Delano Roosevelt had enunciated, prior to Americas entry into World War Two, in his 1941 Four Freedoms speech:

In the future days, which we seek to make secure, we look forward to a world founded upon four essential human freedoms.

The first is freedom of speech and expressioneverywhere in the world.

The second is freedom of every person to worship God in his own wayeverywhere in the world.

The third is freedom from wantwhich, translated into world terms, means economic understandings which will secure to every nation a healthy peacetime life for its inhabitantseverywhere in the world.

The fourth is freedom from fearwhich, translated into world terms, means a world-wide reduction of armaments to such a point and in such a thorough fashion that no nation will be in a position to commit an act of physical aggression against any neighboranywhere in the world.

That is no vision of a distant millennium. It is a definite basis for a kind of world attainable in our own time and generation.

Two of FDRs freedomsFreedom from Want, and Freedom from Fear everywhere in the world,are addressed directly by that world health proposal. Only an international defense against pandemics can keep any nation truly safe. We are only as healthy as our sickest nation.

Why dont many Americans get FDRs message any longer? What blocks them from acknowledgement of their own revolutionary history? For example, when talking about the threat and challenge posed by todays Russia and China, would Americans be startled to know that the post-Revolutionary United States pioneered work in 1840s Russia and in 1860s China to create the beginnings of transcontinental rail systems as part of an alliance against Rule Britannia, the colonial naval power of the British Empire?

Would they be embarrassed to admit that the Belt and Road Initiative, and the improved alliance between Russia and China, were the intended, desired outcome of Abraham Lincolns diplomatic missions to both nations between 1861 and 1865, and that both of those nations supported the Union cause just as fervently as Americas special relationship ally today, Great Britain opposed and sought to undermine America at every turn?

Declaration of Independence Co-Signers Convention

American citizenship, from the time of the Revolution, has carried implications beyond mere privileges of birthright. As the Rev. James Luther Bevel, Director of Direct Action for Martin Luther King and the intellectual author and organizer of the May, 1963 Birmingham Childrens March, said to his friend, fellow civil rights organizer, Rev. Alonzo Shepherd, at a meeting held in Shepherds Philadelphia church on the early evening of Kings birthday, January 15, 1993, You have to ask the American people whether or not they have actually co-signed the Declaration of Independence. Because, judging from the present state of America, I dont know whether they actually agree with it.

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EIRNS/Stuart Lewis

Bevel never believed in, and often preached against blaming the government of the United States for anything, because the people are the government. We have the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. What else do you need? The American Revolution was already made for you. If you still find yourself oppressed by injustice, the first thing you have to do is take out the 51% that you are contributing, at least, to the condition that you must have, somewhere along the line, agreed to go along with.

He suggested that there be an annual Declaration of Independence Co-Signers Convention, in which, after a reading of the Declaration, people go up and co-sign it. This might be one way to begin to remedy the true problem of the sorry state of American politics, education, and daily life: the failure to take responsibility for citizenship. He believed that, as Cassius says in Shakespeares Julius Caesar, The fault, dear Brutus, lies not in our stars, but in ourselves, that we are underlings.

To illustrate: The suppression of true American History is a condition that is tolerated by, not imposed upon, its citizens. Lies are told today about the Founders, and Preservers, of the nation, starting with who they even are. The lies stand because the citizens do not dispute them. Names like Alexander Spotswood of Virginia, Matthew and Henry Carey of Philadelphia, or Friedrich List of Pennsylvania and Germany, are unknown. The roles of others, like Frederick Douglass for example, are greatly distorted. This must be corrected.

One might argue that the United States has developed such disregard for its Revolutionary history these days that virtually no one has stopped to consider that we may be neglecting to even commemorate the actual process leading up to the 250th birthday of our nation. One might ask, for example, whether the focus given to 1619, the year when slavery officially commenced in the American colonies, a fact recently twisted into the America was founded on racism falsehood by the New York Timess 1619 project, is less an attack on the Pilgrims landing from the Mayflower at Plymouth in 1620, than on the American Revolutions process of birth.

The 1763-1776 organization of the American Revolution was the most successful conspiracy for freedom in recorded human history, a conspiracy that angered the British into creating in 1782 the Foreign Office, to prevent the American Revolution from being repeated anywhere in the world, ever again.

I Shall Never Prove a Traitor

More study, writing, publishing, and preparation went into the 1776-83 process than has accompanied any comparable process in historyif there even be another process that could be called comparable. And perhaps that is exactly why no one consults those original sources to learn the truth. Perhaps never in history has such a record of success at not only conducting but perpetuating a revolution through a process of Constitutional government been so thoroughly ignored by so many people that simultaneously purport to hold undying fealty to that very Revolution of which they know nothing. Whether one agrees or not, for example, that the March 5, 1770 Boston Massacre, in which five colonials were killed including an escaped slave by the name of Crispus Attucks, were the appropriate event from which to date the end of the beginning of that process, the fact that it came and went in 2020 without any significant attention being called to it, is what must be immediately remedied in defense of not only the true history, but the very sanity of our citizens.

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NARA

A note about Attucks. Consider that Attucks, born in Framingham, Massachusetts, appears twice in history booksonce in the fall of 1750, twenty years before the Boston Massacre, as Ran away from his master William Brown of Framingham, a mulatto fellow, 27 years of age, named Crispus, 6 feet 2 inches high. and then in 1770, in an account of the bloody events of March 5 by the Massachusetts Gazette, quoted and recounted by authors Sidney and Emma Kaplan:

It was then that another group of citizens, apparently led by a tall robust man with a dark face, appeared on the scene. Five martyrs fell that night: Samuel Gray, ropemaker; James Caldwell, mate; Samuel Maverick, apprentice joiner; Patrick Carr, an Irish leather worker; and the stout man, the first to die, named Attucks, who was born in Framingham, but lately belonging to New Providence (Bahamas)killed on the spot, two Balls entering his breast. On Thursday, the corpse of Attucks was taken from Faneuil Hall, all the Bells tolled a solemn Peal, and the five were interred in one Vault in the middle burying-ground.

To understand what this meant, consider that African-American war veterans were not allowed to be buried together with white veterans at Arlington National Cemetery until 1948, 84 years after it was established.

The latest critical race theory fads notwithstanding, Crispus Attucks at Boston, Salem Poor at Bunker Hill, the First Rhode Island regiment, Bostons Bucks of America, the Volunteer Chasseurs from Haiti, and Colonel John Glovers Marblehead fishermen, many of whom were Indians and never enslaved or newly free Africans, were American Revolutionary patriots. When the 15-year-old James Forten, captured by British sailors when his ship, the Royal Louis was defeated by the British frigate Amphion, was adopted as a playmate by the captains son and offered the life of an aristocrat, he replied, I am here a prisoner for the liberties of my country; I never, never shall prove a traitor to her interests!

Our 250th Anniversary

In any case, it is certainly indisputable that in less than four years from now, on April 18 of 2025, the anniversary of Paul Reveres ride, even the most historically parsimonious will have to admit that the 250th anniversary is upon us. Preparations are already being made for the Olympics which will take place in Paris in 2024, and Los Angeles 2028.

How are we, the citizenry, preparing our nation, and other nations, for the 2020-2026 world-historical turning point we are already in? Will we, perhaps instigated by the British forces we fought a quarter millennium ago, launch a new set of population wars against the modern-day-equivalent of colonial populations in Africa or Asia? Or will we, in four years, be members of a depopulated, sick nation that has lost the moral fitness to survive, having abandoned the original purpose of the American Revolutionthe promotion of the General Welfare of all humanity? The whole world would prefer to celebrate that anniversary, but will not be able to do so, unless the citizens of the United States take back their revolutionary history.

This history is readily available in source material and in the writings of those who worked to found the country. This is a body of work unlike any in any other nation in the world. The Federalist Papers alone, that series of essays written jointly by Hamilton, John Jay, and James Madison, supplied the people of the emerging state of New York with a public presentation of a Platonic dialogue, as in a drama, a dialogue carried out among the three authors, as well as with fellow delegates from the other newly forming states, and, as representatives of the committee advocating the Constitution, with the American citizenry as a whole.

American society after seven years of conflict, and four of questionable self-government, required to be so addressed, and so convinced, through a density of argument and vigorous discussion that few among todays electorate are literate enough to follow. (It should be a prerequisite that anyone in todays United States, and particularly the Congress, who attempts to argue for a Constitutional Convention, should be required to read the Federalist Papers aloud, and then simply asked to state in their own words what those essays mean. The same should be required of history teachers, judges, and lawyers, among others.)

Familiarizing students in our junior high and high schools, as well as colleges, with the source-documents revealing the untold history of pre-colonial, colonial, and revolutionary America, would immediately dissipate the most insipid of critical theory movements. This means, for example, discovering the ideas behind the 17th century colonial movements associated with Alexander Spotswood of Virginia, John Winthrops Commonwealth of Massachusetts, et al., the United States of the two American Revolutions 1776-1783 and 1861-1865, and the aborted third American Revolution 1932-45.

To Honorably Return

Today, however, to paraphrase Frederick Douglass:

What, to the American mind, presently enslaved in the service of British imperial/financial policy, and militarily deployed in no-win warfare, whether in Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq or in unacknowledged conflicts and clandestine operations, in Africa and other parts of the world, is the Fourth of July?

We have made a mockery of the words spoken by our greatest Secretary of State, John Quincy Adams, exactly 200 years ago, on July 4, 1821:

[America] has, in the lapse of nearly half a century, without a single exception, respected the independence of other nations, while asserting and maintaining her own. She has abstained from interference in the concerns of others, even when the conflict has been for principles to which she clings. She goes not abroad in search of monsters to destroy. She is the well-wisher to the freedom and independence of all. She is the champion and vindicator only of her own. She will commend the general cause, by the countenance of her voice, and the benignant sympathy of her example.

How, at this late hour, might we honorably return to the original mission of this nation and its brilliant leadership that strove to attain, in a self-perfecting process of self-government, a higher standard than that characterized by their personal inadequacies or their momentary political practice?

This July 4, we supply, in opposition to the intentionally false representations of American history that have become epidemic in the past three decades, and to the various fad-flavors of the Frankfurt Schools critical theory now running amuck, an accurate account of Frederick Douglass 1852 Fourth of July address. This exercise will hopefully inspire the reading of the words of other true founders, and re-founders of the republic, as Douglass, in fact, was. This speech is one of the clearest presentations of the Socratic (Platonic) method of education, and its use in early American politics.

The speech, What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July? while usually represented as an attack on the Constitution, is, in fact, a defense of the Constitution. Todays illiteracy in, and unfamiliarity with the 19th century practice of the ironical-polemical style in public speaking, along with downright lying about the speechs content, has allowed it to be so grossly misrepresented as to cause its actual intended message to be unrecognizable.

The Douglass speech, divided in three distinct sections, required of the more than 500 people that crowded Rochester, New Yorks Corinthian Hall on July 5, 1852 to hear it, a level of objective introspection born of careful listening to a nuanced argument, presented in multiple voices by a single speaker, that would be summarily rejected by the unmusical narrow-mindedness of any comparable audience assembled in todays United States.

The multiple oratorical and literary devices employed by Douglass throughout his speech were usual and familiar to an American audience of that time. From The Columbian Orator, Caleb Binghams text-book on the art of eloquence owned by Douglass from a very young age, to the Lectures on Rhetoric and Oratory delivered by John Quincy Adams at Harvard in 1806-1808, everyone that intended to persuade others knew vocalization was an essential part of elementary literacy. The collapse of spoken language in contemporary America, now ongoing for about a century, has allowed idea-comprehension to be severely compromised, mugged, and hacked.

With that proviso, we present some excerpts from the Douglass Fourth of July Speech in the hope that during this Fourth, after reading, perhaps aloud, the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights, that families and groups, as well as individuals, might read the Douglass speech, preferably in its entirety, to correct the misrepresentation which you are virtually certain to hear.

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New York Historical Society Frederick Douglass, c. 1865.

The Constitution Is Greater than our Present Practices

So that there can be no doubt on where Douglass stood with respect to the Constitution of the United States, we quote the following from that third and final speech-section that Douglass called The Constitution. To set the context, we first quote the section immediately preceding, in which Douglass excoriates his audience, using the voice of one who is part of the one-seventh of the country that were still enslaved, as the freed slave Douglass stood there, speaking to that New York audience in 1852:

Fellow citizens! I will not enlarge further on your national inconsistencies. The existence of slavery in this country brands your republicanism as a sham, your humanity as a base pretense, and your Christianity as a lie. It destroys your moral power abroad; it corrupts your politicians at home. It saps the foundation of religion; it makes your name a hissing, and a bye-word to a mocking earth. It is the antagonistic force in your government, the only thing that seriously disturbs and endangers your Union. It fetters your progress; it is the enemy of improvement, the deadly foe of education.

Then, there is a complete break with this stream of argument. First, Douglass sets upprepareshis audience, by first seeming to strengthen his denunciation of the Constitution and its authors:

But it is answered in reply to all this, that precisely what I have now denounced is, in fact, guaranteed and sanctioned by the Constitution of the United States; that the right to hold and to hunt slaves is a part of that constitution framed by the illustrious fathers of this Republic.

This is the inevitable conclusion, and from it there is no escape.

Douglass then says:

But I differ from those who charge this baseness on the framers of the Constitution of the United States. It is a slander upon their memory, at least, so I believe.

In that instrument I hold that there is neither warrant, license, nor sanction of the hateful thing; but, interpreted as it ought to be interpreted, the Constitution is a GLORIOUS LIBERTY DOCUMENT. Read its preamble, consider its purposes. Is slavery among them? Is it at the gateway? Or is it in the temple? It is neither. While I do not intend to argue this question on the present occasion, let me ask, if it be not somewhat singular that, if the constitution were intended to be, by its framers and adopters, a slaveholding document, why neither slavery, slaveholding, nor slave can anywhere be found in it. What would be thought of an instrument, drawn up, legally drawn up, for the purpose of entitling the city of Rochester to a track of land, in which no mention of land was made? (All emphasis in the original.)

This Fourth of July, if you hear this Douglass speech either referred to by various commentators, or as either a sound-byte or text, they will not tell you this context. What you will hear, instead, is this passage:

What, to the American slave, is your Fourth of July? I answer: a day that reveals to him, more than all other days in the year, the gross injustice and cruelty to which he is the constant victim. To him, your celebration is a sham; your boasted liberty, an unholy license; your national greatness, swelling vanity; your sounds of rejoicing are empty and heartless; your denunciations of tyrants, brass fronted impudence. There is not a nation on the earth guilty of practices, more shocking and bloody, then, are the people of the United States, at this very hour.

Go where you may, search where you will, roam through all the monarchies and despotisms of the old world, travel through South America, search out every abuse, and when you have found the last, lay your facts by the side of the everyday practices of this nation, and you will stay with me, that, for revolting barbarity and shameless hypocrisy, America reigns without a rival.

Our Constitutional Responsibilities

You will not be read, or told about, this paragraph, which comes immediately before the above, and will be omitted:

At a time like this, scorching irony, not convincing argument, is needed. O! Had I the ability, and could I reach the nations ear, I would, today, pour out a fiery stream of biting ridicule, blasting reproach, withering sarcasm, and stern rebuke. For it is not light that is needed, but fire; it is not the gentle shower, but thunder. We need the storm, the whirlwind, and the earthquake. The feeling of the nation must be quickened; the conscience of the nation must be roused; the propriety of the nation must be startled; the hypocrisy of the nation must be exposed; and its crimes against God and man must be denounced.

And that is exactly what Douglass does, in voicing the ensuing passage, which we intentionally quoted here in reverse order from its appearance. Douglass states his method, then, using a change of voicing, demonstrates his method in the ensuing section, then shifts his voice again. Douglass employs three voices, alternatelythat of the slave, that of the present citizen of the slavery-compromised United States, and that of the free American citizen of the future, though presently endangered, revolutionary American Constitutional republicthat promise of the Constitution which had yet to be fulfilled, to be brought into existence. That America of the future was the America of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, and was physically represented by the 19th century Apollo Project known as the Trans-Continental Railroad.

In conclusion, we will now refer to Douglass beginning voicing, that of Douglass, the fellow citizen of the compromised republic:

Fellow citizens, I am not wanting in respect for the fathers of this republic. The signers of the Declaration of Independence were brave men. They were great men toogreat enough to give fame to a great age. It does not often happen to a nation to raise, at one time, such a number of truly great men. The point from which I am compelled to view them is not, certainly, the most favorable; and yet I cannot contemplate their great deeds with less than admiration. They were statesmen, patriots and heroes, and for the good they did, and the principles they contend for, I will unite with you to honor their memory.

They were peace men; but they preferred revolution to peaceful submission to bondage. They were quiet men; but they did not shrink from agitating against oppression. They showed forbearance; but that they knew its limits. They believed in order, but not in the order of tyranny. With them, nothing was settled that was not right. With them, justice, liberty, and humanity, were final, not slavery and oppression. You may well cherish the memory of such men. They were great in their day and generation. Their solid manhood stands out the more as we contrast it with these degenerate times.

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Library of Congress

The complex country of which we are the descendants requires that this generation of Americans, Frederick Douglass fellow-citizen descendants, have as much dedication to the Constitution, and to the Republic now, as Douglass had thenin his case, even in the face of the then-extant practice of slavery. His support for the Constitution, rather than for self-destructive purgative violence like John Browns doomed-to-fail 1859 raid at Harpers Ferry (or the present-day police action antics of Antifa, etc.) is how Douglass found himself able to catalyze the recruitment of 179,000 African-American troops to fight in the War of the Secession in the two years, 1863-65.

By means of this caliber of dedication, only, can the Four Freedomsthe gift that Franklin Roosevelt wanted to give to the world, after fascism nearly destroyed it in 1945be extended to humanity. Such dedication is given only to those whose knowledge of the history of ideas is extensive enough to allow them to know who they are, not only as individuals, but as the higher process of current history of which they are truly comprised.
This transcript appears in the July 16, 2021 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.

Stopping the Swiss-EU Negotiations and Voting Down the CO 2 Tax Law

[Print version of this transcript]

This is the edited transcript of Swiss entrepreneur Reinhard Greters presentation to a June 16, 2021 online seminar on the reasons for the failure of the EU-Switzerland Framework Agreement and the CO 2 law. The seminar was sponsored by the Burgerrechtsbewegung Solidaritat (BuSo), the Civil Rights Movement Solidarity, a German political party founded by Helga Zepp-LaRouche. Subheads have been added.

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Wikimedia/Andrew Toskin

EU and Swiss Government Systems Differ

The government systems of the EU and Switzerland could not be more different. Below is a list of the divergences.

The EU has a top-down system of government. That means, parliament and government decide, and citizens have to act on it, no matter what the topic. The EU citizens can vote once every four years and based on the results of the individual countries, parliamentary groups are put together in the EU Parliament. This means that individuals are not elected as members of parliament, but those who are elected to the EU Parliament are sent depending on the party strength of the individual country.

Switzerland has a system that is organized from the bottom up. That means that the highest authority in the state are the citizens. The parliament, both the National Council (representatives, large chamber) and the Council of States (two representatives per canton, small chamber) are also elected every four years. In Switzerland, we maintain a concordance system, which means that the four parties with the most voters make up the Federal Council, which is then elected by parliament. This constitutes itself, that is, the departments are determined and distributed cooperatively and the Federal President, who heads the body, is newly appointed every year.

Direct democracy allows the following in our system:

 No long-term power for individual members of the government.

 If the federal state and parliament decide something that some of the citizens do not like, a referendum can be called, which requires a collection of 50,000 valid signatures. This can block a deal in that there is a referendum on it. This deprives the Federal Council of the power to make decisions without public consent.

 If some of the citizens want to bring a concern to the people, there is the right of initiative, which requires a collection of 100,000 valid signatures. This means that the issue can be brought before the people in a vote.

 In addition to the right to vote, we can also vote on technical issuesfor example, on tax increases or reductions, or additions or deletions to the constitution, or on the enactment or deletion of laws, etc.

 We usually have four voting days per year.

 Our constitution can only be amended by means of a referendum. This also requires a cantonal majority where small cantons carry equal weight to big ones.

How did this system affect the Framework Agreement?

Some History of the Framework Agreement

A brief historical summary: In 1992 the Swiss people decided against joining the European Economic Area (EEA). This fact led to bilateral agreements being negotiated on an equal footing in order to regulate a regular relationship in mutual coexistence.

In the meantime, the EU emerged from the EEA. The question of direct EU participation became once again the center of attention. EU membership would totally undermine our direct democracy, and this fact divided the citizenry.

The government then sent a membership application to Brussels, but this was never put into effect. Membership in the EU would not have stood a chance in a referendum.

Then came the idea of the Framework Agreement, an action by the then President [of the European Commission], Jose Manuel Barroso, and with that began the misery. Above all, Left and Green circles and also the federal administration, as well as a majority in the Federal Council, were in favor of such an agreement.

Negotiations began, and the problem was that the Swiss negotiator was an EU supporter. He then responded to the EUs demands too quickly and too naively. Most of the treaty was to the advantage of the EU. It was then negotiated and negotiated ... and for a long time it was agreed not to disclose the content. Years later, this treaty was revealed, and three issues emerged that the people would never have agreed to. These official topics were:

 Wage protection was mainly demanded by the trade unions, their fear being that citizens who immigrate from the EU would lower our wage level.

 The Union Citizens Directive, an intrusion into our social system, was fought above all by right-wing circles. Every EU citizen would have the right to receive the same social benefits even though he never paid for them.

 The free movement of people, also opposed by right-wing circles, their fear being that citizens who immigrate from the EU would undermine our social system.

These three points were discussed and negotiated from bottom to top and vice versa until no one understood what it was all about. In my opinion, these reasons were all a pretext; what it really was about was never clearly stated. The following is a selection:

 We recognize financial equalization among the cantons, that is to say; financially strong cantons support financially weak cantons. These amounts do not have to be repaid by the weak cantons. (This right would be nullified.)

 Our cantonal banking system would be undermined (state support is not allowed).

 Since the cantons are the owners of our National Bank, their surpluses are distributed to the cantons (state aid, that would no longer be possible.)

 We would be required to adopt current and future EU law. We could still vote against it, but if the EU officials didnt like it, we would be subject to compensatory measures or, better, sanctions. (Why should we punish ourselves?)

 We would be required to accept future laws that we cannot anticipate.

Framework Agreement Would Nullify Swiss Constitution

Many provisions in this Framework Agreement are diametrically opposed to our Constitution. That would be the end of our direct democracy. The EU has insisted that it is no longer ready for further negotiations. The pressure on the Federal Council not to sign this treaty grew steadily. According to the Federal Council, this treaty would never have had a chance of being adopted in a popular vote. According to surveys, those in favor of joining the EU are only at around 10%. This means that many party members are no longer fully behind the decisions of the party leadership. For these reasons, the Federal Council broke off the negotiations. The supporters of the Framework Agreement are simply sore losers who are already trying to restart negotiations or want to ask the Federal Council to apply for membership.

Switzerland is under no compulsion to act; most bilateral agreements are to the advantage of the EU, so why should the EU terminate these agreements? I also took a look at the trade balance between Switzerland and Germany. Switzerland imports one billion fewer goods from Germany than the other way round, which means that Germany earns one billion euros every year with Switzerland. Hopefully, the EU will not open a trade war against Switzerland.

Access to the domestic market (in which we would have to adopt all EU rules) is not absolutely necessary for Switzerland. A market access like we have to all countries with which we trade would be sufficient. We do not ask the EU to adapt to our rules if they do business with us. Trade between countries only takes place in statistics, in reality trade is between suppliers and buyers, who are usually harassed by regulatory and fiscal measures from their own countries as well.

It follows that only well-run companies can create wealth, but never politics. If our negotiators would rather sit in the chair of the opposing side, rather than in their own, when drafting contracts, then nothing useful can come about. At least nothing that is in line with our direct democracy.

Many politicians feel far too important; they would like to make their own decisions like their colleagues abroad, but thanks to our system, they cannot do that. That is why you should never send a Federal Councilor to negotiate. What is said is said; a Federal Councilor can then no longer deviate from his statement, whereas a negotiator can object that he must first consult the government on this issue. A Federal Councilor should only be sent abroad to for the signing and toasting.

That was a resume of the last 30 years of cooperation between Europe and Switzerland.

The CO 2 Laws Provisions

Now to the CO 2 law.

First, good news: on June 13th, this law was rejected in a vote by the people; that is, the government has lost to the people. Two months before the vote, the polls were still at 60% for the law. In the last week before the vote, the ratio had deteriorated to 50:50, so a close result was expected. After the votes were counted, 51.6% were against and only 48.4% were in favor.

But how did this CO 2 law come about? This was decided in parliament (the legislative authority) by the Left-Green side and handed over to the Federal Council (the executive authority) for execution. Only one party opposed this, the Swiss Peoples Party (SVP). On the other hand, a referendum was then called by the people. Thus a referendum vote was forced. The idea for this law was related to climate change (which has been taking place since our planet has existed, even without people), with the claim that climate change was man-made.

Here are some examples of this law:

Basically, everything that pollutes the climate is charged a fee, and people who live climate-consciously get something back (steering tax). So, what pollutes the climate, who pays, and who gets something back? A huge administrative task that requires additional federal staff. It was promised that only about 20 new jobs were needed?!? Until everything works smoothly, it will require many times more staff in the future.

Oil and gas pollute the climate. A petroleum price surcharge of CHF (Confoederatio Helvetica franc) 0.12 per liter is required; those who drive a lot pay more. That seems fair at first sight. In rural areas, however, where people are dependent on a car, they usually drive longer distances and are therefore asked to pay more.

Fuel oil penalty fee: CHF 2,200 per household per year, for a family of four. This is CHF 550 per person. Not all of them can switch to more climate-friendly heating systems in the short term.

Flying pollutes the climate. A fee of between CHF 30 and CHF 120 is added to the regular flight price, depending on the destination, short- to long-haul routes.

Road pricing: costs. CHF 1,000 per 10,000 kilometers. People who depend on a car and drive longer distances are, again, asked to pay more. Should driving only be possible for the rich?

Fee for the use of nuclear power: Electricity comes from the outlet! Who calculates who consumes how much nuclear power? It mainly affects companies, tenants, and homeowners. The landlords will pass on these additional costs directly to the tenants. Another huge administrative effort. (With 20 additional positions, throughout Switzerland?!?)

Solar power obligation: CHF 2,600 per household per year, with the aim of replacing all oil heating systems by 2030. If a homeowner converts to solar power, there are costs (depending on the location, between CHF 80 and 100,000). The remuneration is a maximum of CHF 5,000 (a  30-year period is required until the whole thing is amortized). Many older homeowners who live on retirement income would no longer get mortgages or loans to finance a renovation.

That is just a selection from the catalog of demands that Left-Greeners employ. This catalog can be expanded immeasurably in the future. So, an absolute sham for the citizens, nothing more than hidden taxes or a Left-Green fee monster.

We are rich and we can afford it, is the proponents motto.

Another goal is to raise (create) a climate fund of CHF 1,000,000,000 to finance environmentally friendly projects. Then whatever that is, its an incredible redistribution mechanism.

During the referendum campaign, the supporters [of the Act] lied about the incentive taxes that citizens would have to pay, whatever the case. This exposed to the citizens the sham package in this law, which ultimately led to this positive result for the opponents of this law.
EIR LEAD EDITORIAL FOR THURSDAY, JULY 15, 2021

Systemic Breakdown, Systemic Solution

July 14 , 2021 (EIRNS)The planet is deep into a systemic breakdown crisis, which is spinning off distinct, profound explosions on every continentAsia, Europe, Africa, the Caribbean. They may each appear to have different, immediate triggers; but the backdrop to each and all is the collapse of the worlds economic and financial system, and the related COVID pandemic which continues to rage like the Masque of the Red Death that it is. In each circumstanceas globallythese crises are fraught with danger, and with opportunity.

 In Afghanistan, the pullout of American and NATO troops after a 20-year unmitigated failure, now threatens to make that country the new cockpit for British terrorism, drug-running and geopolitical destabilization targeting Russia and China, in particular. But there is also a meeting underway today in Tajikistan of the Foreign Ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which is discussing the concrete proposals of China and Russia, among others, for stabilizing that situation based on the pursuit of common development, such as through Belt and Road projects, and open and inclusive regional cooperation to create conditions for common security against terrorism, separatism and extremism. Will SCO member India, which has not yet joined the Belt and Road, now act on the understanding that it is in its fundamental interest that Afghanistan be stabilized by all of its neighbors working together?  In South Africa, the politically motivated jailing of former President Jacob Zuma has triggered a wave of protests and now violent riots and looting which have left a death toll of 72 people, as of tonight. Half of South Africas 60 million people live in poverty; 43% are unemployed; and the pandemic is ripping a path of destruction across the country and all of Africa, where vaccination levels are close to zero in most countries. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has just restated the obvious: We need at least 11 billion doses to vaccinate 70% of the world and end this pandemic.... Everyone, everywhere must have access to COVID-19 vaccines, tests, treatments and support.  In the Caribbean, Haitian President Jovenel Moise was assassinated on July 7, in a black operation carried out by mercenaries and hitmen, many of whom were former informants and stringers for the DEA, the FBI and other U.S. agencies. Two days later, the de facto new President of Haiti called for the U.S. to send troops into that countrywhere African levels of poverty, hunger and disease have existed for decades. (As for COVID, not a single vaccine has yet been administered in Haiti.) Two days after that, street demonstrations were conjured up in nearby Cuba, with funds and political support from the U.S. State Department, NED, and allied NGOs, intended to launch a full-scale destabilization and regime-change operation against Cubawhich for 60 years has endured sanctions and an embargo, which have gravely worsened the economic and pandemic crisis in that country.

The answer for the broader Caribbean Basin, including Mexico and Central America, is for the United States to cooperate economically with China to bring the Belt and Road into that region, and revive large-scale American exports of capital goods in the process. The answer for Africa, is U.S. cooperation with Chinas Belt and Road activity in that continent, to construct everything required for a modern health system (and associated infrastructure) to be built in every nation. The answer for Afghanistan lies in the same direction.

The solution for the United States will be found by reviving a scientifically driven industrial economy, whose purpose is to bring advanced development to every corner of the planetand the Solar System.

Is the systemic crisis bringing us to that branching point in history?
Putin Has Dialogue with Media about His Article On the Historical Unity of Russians and Ukrainians

July 14 , 2021 (EIRNS)Speaking to reporters in St. Petersburg on July 13, Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in an extensive exchange about on why he wrote his July 12 feature On the Historical Unity of Russians and Ukrainians, posted on the Kremlin website. Yesterday he made the point that it was because the anti-Russian project began in Ukraine and that the Ukrainian government has suppressed those forces who want to improve relations with Russia. In response to a question raised in his Direct Line with Vladimir Putin, the President suggested he would write such an article. The idea which is slightly more than just an article, emerged, Because the conditions that are taking shape are fundamentally different from what they were only recently. There is every indication that an anti-Russia agenda is being pursued, and of course, this is bound to be of concern to us, Putin said.

The article not aimed only at Russians and Ukrainians.

I do not divide people into them and us. In the article I also write that we are a common entity, and so it is intended for all of us, including those who live in modern Russia, those who live in modern Ukraine and the sponsors of the current political leadership of Ukraine. They should also know what we are and what we think about each other. I believe that this is important for all of us, said the President. He responded to a later question that If they want to have a discussion, I think they should take a break, read the article carefully, analyze it and review some of the archival material. I think this is exactly what they will do and they will find something to talk about. When I say they I mean the political leadership of todays Ukraine.

He also advised:

It does not matter to us how a neighboring statein this case, Ukrainewill shape its foreign policy and its roadmap. What matters is ... that nobody creates problems or threats for us. What we see, however, is that military development of this territory is starting, which is worrying. ... And I think that our concerns will eventually be heard by those involved. After all, it is not Ukraines doing. It is happening on Ukrainian territory and people are being used. I really do hope that our concerns will be taken seriously.

As for gas transit he said:

Russia, Gazprom, we signed a five-year contract to deliver a certain amount of Russian natural gas to our consumers in Europe via Ukraine. The Normandy format [raised by Zelensky in Berlin] ... has nothing to do with commercial projects like Nord Stream or Nord Stream 2 or the transit of our gas through the territory of Ukraine. Despite all the current difficulties, Russia undertook certain obligations under this contract and will fully meet them.

In part of his earlier response, he explained:

However, there are also certain circumstances that compelled me to present this material today. After all, there are many people in Ukraine, millions of people who want to restore relations with Russia. ... There are also political forces that advocate normalization in this respect. But, judging by what we see, they are being deprived of any opportunity to implement their political goals. They are simply removed from the political scene through non-systemic, illegal methods. Some are simply killed in the streets, and then after this kind of crime nobody looks for the criminal. Or people are burned alive, like the tragic events in Odessa,

referring to the neo-Nazi arson attack on the trade union building in May 2014.
SCO Foreign Ministers Meet on Afghanistan: The Name of Peace Is Economic Development

July 14 , 2021 (EIRNS)--A central question at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Foreign Ministers meeting today in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, was whether the Afghanistan disaster could become a success for the SCOs approach. In particular, whether the prospect of massive infrastructure development of Afghanistan would be enough to begin healing wounds and outflanking terrorism. The Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced his approach July 13, stressing the uniqueness of the SCO, upon its 20th anniversary. The core concept of the SCO is the "Shanghai Spirit ... mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations, and pursuit of common development.

Wang Yi elaborated at todays opening session of the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs. CGTN reported on Wang Yis address: Noting that the SCO has created a new model of cooperation featuring solidarity and collaboration among countries with different social systems and development paths, Wang made several proposals.... [T]to set an example for the international community in exploring a new type of international relations, the member states should firmly support each other on issues concerning each others core interests and major concerns, adding that they should cooperate closely in the face of external interference and challenges. He called upon the SCO to jointly counter the three evil forces of terrorism, extremism and separatismspecifically including the East Turkistan Islamic Movement. Further, joint work on the Belt and Road should involve strengthened cooperation in science, technology and innovation, and that all progressive forces should resist certain countries putting unilateralism and bullying practices above the basic norms of international relations.

Wang Yi met on the conference sidelines with Indias Foreign Minister Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.

Jaishankar met separately with Afghanistans Foreign Minister Mohammed Hanif Atmar. Jaishankars statement stressed the need to end the bloodshed and assured Atmar of Indias continued cooperation in strengthening regional and global consensus to achieve a political settlement in Afghanistan. Atmar emphasized that Taliban attacks in collusion with foreign fighters and regional and international terrorist networks were escalating and that overcoming this common threat was of vital importance to regional security. In turn, Atmar met with Pakistans Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, and reiterated his warning about the Taliban as a major regional threat, that required practical cooperation between regional countries, particularly Pakistan, in closing shelters and ceasing funding sources of the Taliban, and encouraging the group to resume meaningful talks and find a political solution.

There was also a meeting of the SCO Contact Group on Afghanistan. Wang Yi pressed the group to weigh in on the United States to join in on the reconstruction of Afghanistan (contrary to Asia Times and various commentators, who are sure that Russia and China want to freeze the U.S. out). Wang Yi was direct: The hasty U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan presents severe challenges. The U.S. cannot shirk its responsibility for the current situation, as the U.S. expressed its readiness to help Afghanistan maintain stability and conduct a peaceful reconstruction. So, the SCO member states should urge the U.S. to honor its commitments. The SCOs Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure is perfectly designed to tackle terrorism, extremism and separatism and to stop its spread. The SCO should make full use of existing cooperation mechanisms in economy, trade, culture and other fields to support Afghanistan in enhancing its capacity for independent development.... China will continue to follow the principle of Afghan-owned and Afghan-led. 

Sun Zhuangzhi, the executive director of the Chinese Research Center at the SCO, explained the Belt and Road approach to Asia Times: The SCO is able to devise a plan that will pave the way for political stability, its security, economic development, and development of infrastructure projects in Afghanistan. According to the Asia Times, Wang Yi means for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to extend to Kabul, which already involves two building blocks: 1. China Telecom and Afghan Telecom 2017 deal to build a Kashgar-Faizabad fiber optic cable system and expand it to a China-Kyrgyzstan-Tajikistan-Afghanistan Silk Road system. 2. The February 2021 deal for a railway connecting Islamabad, Kabul and Tashkent.
Bass Features Padilla and Jones-Sawyer at Virtual Town Hall

Timely topics covered included the infrastructure bill, police reform and vaccine hesitancy

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An array of timely topics were addressed at the Fighting for Los Angeles virtual town hall hosted by U.S. Congresswoman Karen Bass on July 13. Joining her for the forum were U.S. Senator Alex Padilla and State Assembly Member Reginald Jones-Sawyer.

More than 1,000 people tuned-in for the Zoom event to hear first-hand the status of important legislation on the state and federal level. All three elected officials shared insight on diverse subjects such as the infrastructure bill, police reform, child tax credit and vaccine hesitancy.

Weve known Alex for a very long time as L.A. council president and California secretary of State, but now hes in a much bigger role as a U.S. senator, so we want to hear from him. Assemblyman Jones-Sawyer has played such a leading role in the state legislature on criminal justice reform so we look forward to hearing from him as well, said Bass in her introductory remarks.

Padilla, who serves on the Senates Budget, Homeland Security, Judiciary, Rules, and Environment and Public Works Committees and chairs the Immigration Sub-committee, revealed that the bi-partisan infrastructure bill has made significant progress. We have a deal, Congresswoman, he said. The Senate Democratic members of the budget committee got together with leadership and were going to have a $3.5 trillion plan that well be announcing.

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What it really means is that were not just investing in infrastructure like roads and bridges, but also in jobs and American families in a way that emphasizes inclusivity and equity. Far too often in history, our communities have been left out. We (Black and Brown people) are going to be prioritized in this plan in terms of where projects are sighted, who gets the jobs and extending the child tax credit, he said.

Its not the finish line, but its a huge big step. This infrastructure plan is a way to help our economy for decades to come, Padilla stressed.

Applauding the news of investment in both physical and human resources, Bass said, The idea that were putting this bi-partisan package together is really sweet justice because it brings us back to where we should be  putting people first.

Another announcement by Padilla concerned the child tax credit, which he said people who filed a 2019 or 2020 tax return should receive a check starting July 15. Families with children under six-years-old will receive $300 for each child and people with children between the ages of 7-to-18 will receive $250 per child.

Even if you didnt file a 2019 or 2020 tax return, you can still sign up for the child tax credit because youre eligible for it if you have children, insisted Padilla.

Jones-Sawyer spoke about the plans for the states historic budget surplus of more than $100 billion.

Because of the surplus, we were able to put $30 billion in a rainy-day fund and pay off debt. Its really because we started doing smart budgeting. We started by doing one-time monies instead of bloating the budget with ongoing costs and that has done us well until this day, he said.

In my district alone, Im able to give Kedren Mental Health Center, which is located in South L.A., $30 million to upgrade their facilities, which had become dilapidated. Now, we can send homeless there and people with mental health problems there, even law enforcement officers with mental health problems can go right there in our own neighborhood, noted Jones-Sawyer.

He added that a $15 million disbursement will go to UCLAs Rev. James Lawson Labor Center for renovations of the building and millions more will be allotted to combat homelessness. In the area of housing, Jones-Sawyer imparted the good news that the state of California has designated $5.2 billion to aid renters and landlords adversely affected by the pandemic.

Also, the states eviction moratorium has been extended to September 2021. So, during the summer and into the fall, no one has to worry about being evicted during this time, said the assembly member, who also chairs the Public Safety Committee.

In that capacity, he cited the committees passage of the Peace Officers Education, Age and Employment Act, which mandates that peace officers must be 21-years-old and complete classes, such as sociology, that highlight the importance of critical thinking.

We want to bring in people that are better educated and more mature. Research shows that college-educated law enforcement officers have the lowest amount of police violence than anyone else. So, we want quality individuals, not just focus on the quantity of people, explained Jones-Sawyer.

All of the legislators urged the audience to consider getting the COVID-19 vaccination. Commenting on the increase in vaccine hesitancy, Bass said, I realize that the vaccine  just like any medicine you take  can have side effects. But, considering that hundreds of millions have taken this vaccine already, I consider it to be safe. Its been in development for over a decade.

Also, the hospitalizations and deaths occurring now are from people who are not vaccinated. I just hope people are not deterred by that. The African American, Latino and Native American populations are disproportionately affected and we have been dying, she insisted.

As the town hall concluded, Bass added, This has been an amazing hour and I hope we can do this again, but in person.

To learn more about the California rental assistance program, visit https://housing.ca.gov/covid_rr. For information on the child tax credit, visit https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021.
Biden Nominates Garcetti as Ambassador to India

President Joe Biden has nominated Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti as the U.S. ambassador to the Republic of India. The White House made the announcement on July 9, following weeks of speculation in the local media about the potential appointment.

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If confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Garcetti would serve a country where he has some ties. He has visited India multiple times and speaks some Hindi and Urdu. Also, the mayor lived and conducted fieldwork on nationalism, ethnicity, and human rights in Southeast Asia and Northeast Africa.

Today, the President announced that I am his nominee to serve as U.S. Ambassador to India. I am honored to accept his nomination to serve in this role, said Garcetti.

I love Los Angeles and will always be an Angeleno. I want you to know that everyday, I am your mayor, I will continue to lead this city like it is my first day on the job, with passion, focus, and determination.

I have committed my life to service  as an activist, as a teacher, as a naval officer, as a public servant, and if confirmed, next as an ambassador. Part of that commitment means that when your nation calls, you answer that call. And should I be confirmed, Ill bring this same energy, commitment, and love for this city to my new role and will forge partnerships and connections that will help Los Angeles, he added.

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Elected officials and civic leaders in the Black community expressed strong support for Garcettis nomination as they extended congratulations to the mayor. U.S. Congresswoman Karen Bass described the mayor as an excellent diplomat who persuaded more than 400 U.S. mayors to adopt the Paris Climate Agreement in his roles as co-founder of Climate Mayors and chair of C40Cities, a network comprised of 97 international cities focused on climate change.

For as long as Ive known Mayor Garcetti, Ive known his determination and Ive known his heart. In the face of any obstacle in our citys way  whether it was climate change or the COVID-19 pandemic  one of Mayor Garcettis greatest strengths was always to bring everyone to the table and to unify around a common goal, said Bass, who chairs the House Foreign Affairs Committee on Africa, Global Health and Global Human Rights.

While we will absolutely miss his leadership here in Los Angeles, I look forward to continuing to work with him  this time on the world stage  to better the lives of all Americans. I urge the Senate to swiftly confirm the nomination of our Mayor, she stressed.

Commending Garcetti as L.A.s chief executive since 2013, Councilmember Mark Ridley-Thomas noted, Governing a city as magnificent, complex and diverse as Los Angeles is no easy feat, and Mayor Garcetti has done a remarkable tour of duty.

For more than two decades of service, he has led with head and heart. I salute him for his notable contributions to Los Angeles  and respect his commitment to continued public service, he said.

Danny J. Bakewell, Sr., executive publisher/chairman of Bakewell Media and chairman of the board of Los Angeles Brotherhood Crusade, also acknowledged Garcettis leadership while serving in L.A.s highest elected office.

Mayor Eric Garcetti has done a great job of guiding Los Angeles through some of the most challenging times in American history. He has worked tirelessly to build a city of inclusion, and has been an advocate of equity for African Americans and all communities of color, he remarked.

We will miss his leadership here in Los Angeles, but I also understand why the Biden/Harris administration would select him to be the ambassador for India given the challenges and critical need to have someone of his character and credibility to navigate the relationship between the U.S. and India. I wish him and Amy (his wife) well, as they embark on this next phase of their lives in public service, said Bakewell.

As L.A. mayor, Garcetti has chalked up several accomplishments and experiences that will be beneficial in his new role. He led the citys response to the COVID-19 pandemic, spearheaded L.A.s successful bid to host the 2028 Summer Olympics and championed Metros addition of new transit lines and adoption of an all-electric fleet.

In the nomination news release, the White House cited Garcettis overseeing of the busiest container port in the Western Hemisphere, the largest municipal utility in the country, and one of the busiest airports in the world, in reference to the Port of L.A., Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, and Los Angeles International Airport, respectively.

Prior to being elected mayor, Garcetti served 12 years as the councilmember for Council District 13 and six years as council president. He also taught at Occidental Colleges Department of Diplomacy and World Affairs and at USCs School of International Relations. Garcetti earned his B.A. and M.A. degrees at Columbia University and studied international relations as a Rhodes scholar at Oxford

University.

Despite the excitement about his nomination, Garcetti is expected to remain in Los Angeles for the immediate future due to the lengthy Senate confirmation process. He told KNX Newsradio on July 9 that, Ill still be here probably for some months, and Im going to run through that tape of loving every single day that Im honored to be your mayor.

Garcetti, who has reached his term limit and cannot seek another four years as mayor, is scheduled to leave office in December 2022, but would vacate the position early if confirmed by the U.S. Senate. The City Charter authorizes Council President Nury Martinez to serve as acting mayor until an interim mayor is selected by the City Council or a special election is held.

While a disruption in leadership will bring unanticipated challenges  transition also creates room for ingenuity and opportunity, said Ridley-Thomas.

It is incumbent upon the City Council to lean into this change, and work with collective nimbleness, perseverance, compassion, and the pursuit of justice, to address the myriad of issues facing this city  of which the homelessness crisis and recovery from the pandemic remain front and center. In the end, Its all about leadership.

City News Service contributed to this article.
Black Californians Are the Number One Target of Hate Crimes

Miya Ponsetto, the Piru, California woman who falsely accused a Black teenager of stealing her phone at a New York City Hotel in December 2020, has been charged with a hate crime.

Two Californian men have been charged with a hate crime in Oregon for allegedly assaulting a Black gas station attendant.

A Berkeley woman was charged with a hate crime after she allegedly harassed a Black Amazon delivery driver, shouting racial slurs at him and physically stopping his attempts to escape the confrontation.

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Hate crime incidents in California shot up by 31% in 2020, the highest since 2008. And According to the state attorney generals annual report, this surge can be attributed to a massive spike in anti-Black hate crimes in major California cities.

Last year, Black people accounted for 6.5% of Californias population but were the targets of 30% of total hate crimes, an 87% increase from 2019.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta, who held a press conference to address the hate crime epidemic, promised to attack this issue head on.

We need to be more victim-centered with how we address hate crime by providing care and healing in language and with cultural competence, Bonta told Sacramentos ABC10. We need to strengthen our reporting and tracking system so that we can really get a handle on the full depth of the challenge.

When it comes to hate crimes, Black Americans are the most targeted racial group in the country, with Anti-Black hate crimes making up 47.1% of all racially motivated hate crimes in 2018 and 48.5% in 2019.

According to the Los Angeles County Commission on Human Relations 2019 Hate Crime Report, 2019 also saw a 64% increase in hate crimes targeting trans people, many of which were Black or Brown, according to the Human Rights Campaign.

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Yet another year with alarming levels of bias-motivated crimes underscores just how urgent it is to address this hate crimes epidemic, said Alphonso David, the Human Rights Campaigns first Black president. This year, we saw a tragic new record of fatal violence against transgender and gender non-conforming people in this country, particularly against Black and Brown transgender women.

2020 also saw a 107% increase in anti-Asian hate crime in California as racially motivated civil unrest ravished the country.
Black Lives Matter at Eight Yearsand Counting

Over the last year #BlackLivesMatter has been measured as the largest racial and social justice movement in history, fed by the indomitable Spirits of #GeorgeFloyd, #BreonnaTaylor, #AhmaudArberyand in Los Angeles #DijonKizzee, #FredWilliams, and the more than 1200 people who were killed by police in 2020 all across this country and those whose lives were stolen in 2021#DaunteWright, #MaKhiaBryant, #FrederickHolder, and more. Their Spirits joined #EzellFord, #MikeBrown, #RedelJones, #MitriceRichardson and so many others who, since 2013, breathed life into Black Lives Matter. The years spent building Black Lives Matter, gave the cry for justice a movement home.

When #TrayvonMartins murderer, George Zimmerman, was acquitted on July 13, 2013, the world erupted and our co-founder Alicia Garza penned a love letter to Black people, closing with the words Black Lives Matter. The words, amplified by Patrisse Cullors and Opal Tometi, became a rallying cry for those with the vision and will to end state-sanctioned violence against Black people and build a world of freedom and justice. For eight years we have struggle and organized. And while the size and scale of the movement is a win unto itself, there are also tangible victories that have moved us forward in a substantive way.

As the world cracked wide open last year, it became clear that police and prisons required abolition, not reform. #DefundThePolice and #ReimaginePublicSafety became the clarion calls. We engaged Black voters and ran Trump out of the White House. Old school prosecutors, like Jackie Lacey, were ousted and visions for progressive justice reform took hold, where refuse to prosecute children as adults, end the racist death penalty, stop penalizing people for the neighborhoods in which they live through gang and other enhancements, and stop privileging the rich and penalizing the poor through the cash bail system. We launched Peoples Budget LA and got $150 million cut from LAPD and $250 million pledged to the Black community. We defunded police in LAUSD schools by 35% and invested nearly $100 million in Black student achievement. With the passage of Measure J, we allocated County funds away from jails and sheriffs and invested hundreds of millions of dollars in the things that actually make communities safe, like good jobs, mental health resources, youth programs, re-entry programs, and economic development. We launched #VerifiedBlackOwned to highlight and deliberately invest in Black-owned businesses. We put more than $3 million in the form of $1000 mini-grants directly into the hands of Black families that were struggling in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic through the Black Lives Matter Survival Fund. We celebrated Black women through #BlackWomenAreDivine, and provided healing justice to the families of those killed by police and the organizers who support them. We stepped into our own power and challenged everyone from Hollywood to corporations to politicians to say definitively that Black Lives Matter, with many actually putting their money where their mouth is.

Some will tell us that the Black Lives Matter moment is closing, that its time to move on and return to normalcy. Racist systems are doubling down, by increasing funding to police, banning critical race theory, criminalizing houselessness and poverty, attempting to recall progressive prosecutors, eroding voting rights, violently assaulting protestors, and clinging desperately to old forms. While we cannot realistically expect the protest to number in the hundreds of thousands, we must maintain the revolutionary Spirit that our Ancestors and those on whose behalf we struggle demand. We must pass the Kenneth Ross, Jr. Police Decertification Bill (SB2, authored by Senator Steve Bradford). We must pass bold visionary federal legislation like the BREATHE Act and the Peoples Response Act (introduced by Rep. Cori Bush). We must continue to #DefundThePolice and move them out of mental health calls, traffic stops, schools, public transportation, housing, and other places where they bring harm, not safety. We must #EndPoliceAssociations, directly challenge their legitimacy as unions, and recognize them, instead, as protectors of White-supremacist-capitalism. There is so much more work to be done to topple systems of white supremacy and oppression and build a new world fit for the inheritance of our children and the generations to come. Today was recommit and step courageously into that sacred duty. Black Lives STILL Mattereight years inand counting.

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Cal AG Rob Bonta Hits Google With Lawsuit Over Play Store

Last week, California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the California Department of Justice (DOJ) is joining a multistate lawsuit against Google.

In the claim, California joins 35 other states and the District of Columbia in accusing the Mountain View-based company of violating national and state laws (the federal Sherman Antitrust Act and Californias Cartwright Act) with its Google Play Stores monopolization of the smartphone app market.

Google has violated the trust of Android phone customers by limiting consumer choice and raking in outrageous commissions on app developers. Android customers are effectively stuck using the Google Play Store for apps, where they pay a premium, said Bonta.

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Calling Googles dominance of the Android-app market anti-competitive, Bonta pointed out that customers are impacted the most by Googles actions.

A more competitive app marketplace could open innovation, leading to more choice, better payment processing, improved customer service, and enhanced data security, he added.

The lawsuit, filed in a U.S. District Court in San Francisco, is the second multi-state lawsuit California has joined against the tech giant. Last year, Cal DOJ joined another U.S. Department of Justice lawsuit claiming Google stifles its competition by signing exclusionary agreements with smartphone manufacturers to dominate their operating systems, blocking out its search engine and other app competitors.

In the absence of Googles anticompetitive conduct, there would be two main channels for consumers to obtain apps on an open Android operating system: (i) direct downloading and installation of apps or app stores; and (ii) apps or app stores pre-installed on devices by device manufacturers and/or mobile network operators, reads the 144-page complaint in which phrases with sensitive information have been redacted.

But Google has closed off its purportedly open Android operating system from competition in app distribution, it continues. To accomplish this, Google degraded direct distribution channels, and then cut deals to discourage and disincentivize any remaining potential competition.

Responding to the states legal action, Googles senior director of government affairs and policy Wilson White wrote in a blog post that the suit isnt about fairness. Instead, in his view, its about a handful of developers who want access to the benefits of Googles app store without paying for it.

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The complaint limits its definition of app marketplace to Android devices only. This completely ignores the competition we face from other platforms such as Apples incredibly successful app store, which accounts for the majority of mobile app store revenues, according to third party estimates, White wrote.

White insists Google allows both developers and consumers to have options.

Device makers and carriers can preload competing app stores alongside Google Play on their devices, he said. In fact, most android devices ship with two or more app stores preloaded. And popular Android devices such as the Amazon Fire tablet come preloaded with a competitive app store and no Google Play Store.

Technically, Bonta says, consumers do have the option to install app stores they choose or to buy apps directly from developers. But he says Google discourages this type of sideloading through a convoluted process that forces users to click through often-misleading security warnings and multiple permission screens.

This burdensome series of red flags leaves consumers with the impression that alternative app stores are inferior at best and high risk at worst. Over 90 % of all Android app distribution in the United States is done through Googles Play Store, said the Cal DOJ in a press release.
Councilmember Curren Price Addresses Needs of Neighbors Affected by Botched Fireworks Detonation

More than 100 residents came out on July 12 to Trinity Recreation Center for a community forum, hosted by Councilmember Curren Price and the South Central Neighborhood Council, regarding the LAPD Bomb Squad truck explosion that occurred at 27th and San Pedro streets.

During the meeting, Councilman Price informed the crowd that his office has been on the ground for weeks helping dozens of neighbors with housing, cash assistance, food, clothing and new refrigerators, among other services.

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On June 30, what was intended to be a controlled detonation of explosives, ultimately resulted in a blast that sent 17 neighbors and first responders to the hospital, as well as destroying an LAPD Bomb Squad truck.

Price added that his office had no knowledge that this was transpiring in District 9 and now we are being asked to wait and be patient for the results of an investigation.

I am outraged! This is something that should have never happened. Whoever made this decision to detonate dangerous explosives in a densely populated neighborhood has to answer to the people that are now suffering because of it; our community demands justice, said Councilman Price, who lives 10 blocks from where this devastation occurred and felt the shock wave of the blast when the truck exploded.

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On July 8, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) concluded the collection of evidence from the scene and will be providing a comprehensive report of their findings at a later date to be determined. Councilman Price indicated that he personally reached out to George Gascon, L.A. County District Attorney, urging his office to also look into the matter.

The neighborhood along 27th and San Pedro streets sustained major damage, including 15 homes that were yellow tagged, with three structures that suffered extensive damage making them uninhabitable, along with multiple cars destroyed and the displacement of more than 75 people in the wake of the aftermath.

To help neighbors, Councilman Price has been working with dozens of City and County partners in establishing a Local Assistance Center at Trinity Park to make it easier and more accessible for victims to get the help they need, with 29 organizations to assist, including the Emergency Management Department, the L.A. City Clerks office, Building and Safety, as well as the Red Cross. To date, more than 120 paper claims have been filed for property and personal damages.

Councilman Price reached out to the Carpenters Union and they have agreed to donate their services and expertise in repairing the three most severely damaged properties that have been identified by Building and Safety. In addition, with the assistance of the Coalition for Responsible Community Development, a local non-profit, they will begin replacing the windows on 27th Street this week that were blown out by the explosion and Councilman Prices office will be covering the costs.

The truth of the matter is the victims of this explosion do not have the luxury of waiting. People are hurting and they need help now, said Councilman Price. At this moment, we are left to pick up the pieces and do whatever we can to help the people that are suffering, all because of a stupid decision that gave little regard to the lives and property of this working class-neighborhood.

Under the direction of Councilman Price, the Local Assistance Center will remain open until Friday, July 16 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. where victims can file claims, receive mental health counseling referrals and other supportive services. For more information, contact the Local Assistance Center directly at (213) 486-8137 or Councilman Curren Prices District Office at (323) 846-2651.
COVID  Delta Variant On Rise Throughout Black Community

Los Angeles County has issued a recent warning that COVID-19 cases, and in particular the Delta variant, throughout the county are on the rise. African Americans in particular are suffering the effects of the virus more than other communities at an alarming rate and are encouraged to get vaccinated.

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Healthcare has recently provided data showing members of the African American community are suffering more than any other community from the effects of COVID-19 and are encouraging unvaccinated Californians to get vaccinated.

When asked, why should we be concerned about the Delta variant? MLK and healthcare officials said, The virus is highly contagious and that it spreads quickly and can cause a more severe illness than previous strands of the virus.

Public Health researchers are finding that people infected with the Delta variant are almost twice as likely to be hospitalized as those who are infected with the Alpha variant. The unvaccinated population is at an even greater risk.

For the first time in months, cases are on the rise; more people are going to the hospital and it is those within the Black and Brown communities, and other communities of color who are being most affected.

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While health officials dont believe that the new variant will cause another massive outbreak of the virus, health experts believe it will cause an increase in COVID-19 cases in communities where vaccination rates are lower, posing the most serious risk to those who are older, sicker and unvaccinated.

Throughout California, the Delta variant is on the rise and is responsible for 38% of new cases as of the end of June. This is up from 5.6% of new cases in May, according to the States public health department.

In Los Angeles County, the Delta variant is spreading like wildfire. The Delta variant made up nearly 50% of new COVID-19 cases in L.A. County; four weeks earlier, it was less than 5%.

MLKCH, which is the leading medical institution within the South Los Angeles community has seen a steady increase in the number of cases. In the past eight weeks, they have seen 117 new COVID-19 cases and the numbers continue to rise.

Dr. Elaine Batchlor, president and CEO of MLKCH said, If youve been waiting to get your COVID vaccine, now is the time to stop waiting and do it. COVID vaccines are powerful weapons to protect yourself and prevent the continued spread of COVID in our community, including the Delta variant. The Delta variant is spreading quickly and can cause more severe illness. Unfortunately, the Black community is lagging behind in COVID vaccination and as a result, is experiencing higher rates of infection and hospitalization. Lets not allow this terrible disease to decimate our community again.

In the past eight weeks, over 51% of all new cases have been Black/African Americans and 42% of all new cases have been Latino/Hispanic. These higher infection rates are also representative in the statistics of those receiving the vaccination since in communities like Compton, only 53% of residents have been vaccinated. In Watts, the number is right at 50%, which is an extremely lower number than in more affluent communities throughout Los Angeles County where the numbers are hovering between 70 and 80%.

The COVID-19 vaccine is highly effective against the virus in general and in particular, the Delta variant. All three vaccines in the United States (Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson) show strong protection against severe disease and death from the Delta variant.

MLKCH also warns that if you have previously been infected with COVID, you are still at risk for becoming infected by the Delta variant. However, the immunity from the COVID-19 vaccines still remains strong and is the best option for protecting individuals and their loved ones from being infected or suffering extreme symptoms from the virus.

Individuals are encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible and reminded that finding locations at local distributions locations is free and easy.

Although the CDC no longer recommends people who are fully vaccinated to wear mask, health experts have said it may make sense for people living in areas where vaccination rates are low and Delta cases are increasing to continue covering their faces.

People are also reminded that the following are high-risk setting for COVID-19

Indoor gatherings

Large crowds

Places such as senior living facilities or airports where infections could be high.

For this reason, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health now recommends that all people wear face masks when indoors regardless of ones vaccination status.
Ethiopia Is Open for Unity, Business, Progress and Empowerment

With archaeological findings that date back to around 980 BC, Ethiopia sits along the easternmost peninsula in Africa.

Not only does the culturally rich nation count as Africas oldest country, but some believe its the oldest in the world.

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With a population of 112 million  roughly 70 percent of whom are 30 and under  Ethiopia has never suffered under colonization.

Moreover, unlike most others on the continent, Ethiopia has beaten back all attempts by would-be colonizers.

That and the many current reforms has Fitsum Arega, the Ethiopian Ambassador to the United States, beaming confidently with expectations about the future of his nation.

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There is economic reform, vast investment opportunities in agriculture, manufacturing, and energy, Ambassador Arega told the Black Press during a meeting at the Ethiopian Embassy in Washington, D.C.

Ethiopia is an ancient country that takes care of its tradition and culture, the Ambassador remarked.

We have a useful population, and that is the force for transformation.

Ambassador Arega continued:

We want to engage more in manufacturing which requires labor and skill. Ethiopia is a very good country from the textile business point of view, and we import cotton; we have power that is all generated from green energy.

Winemaking is good because of our soil and because in the daytime it is hot and at nighttime, it is very cold. So that is good for fermentation, so as you see, we are coming up with so many opportunities. Some we didnt always know about.

Ambassador Arega said President Sahle-Work Zewde and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who just won another five-year term after a landslide election victory, have made reform their mission.

The election was the first of its kind in terms of free and fairness, the Ambassador stated.

He said access to free education, rich agricultural and technology, and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam  or the GERD  only buoys leaders and citizens confidence.

Among Ethiopias priorities are sustainable economic development, agriculture, food security, conservation, and sustainable use of natural resources, the Ambassador noted.

There were people opposed to reform and those still against reform and, as a result, there has been conflict where half the people in the northern part have been displaced, Ambassador Arega explained.

We have to bring them back to their former way of life; that is a priority, the Ambassador insisted. We have a home-grown economy reform program where we are enabling the private sector to play more of a role. In the past, the public sector played a big role.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Ambassador Arega noted that Ethiopia had invested heavily in infrastructure and built the fastest electric railway over rugged terrain.

We want to build on democracy, Ambassador Arega declared, noting that everyone is proud that the African Union continues to headquarter in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa.

We want to ensure that the aspirations of the people are sustained and engage all opposing parties and those with different views.

The Ambassador, who twice met with NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., said the Black Press of America help must tell Ethiopias story of reform and prosperity.

Dr. Chavis announced, I am so very pleased to state on-the-record that the Black Press of America via the NNPA is now in the process of establishing a strategic media partnership between the NNPA and the Ethiopian Press.

Our two trade associations will work together henceforth on economic sustainability interests, international media relations in print, digital and social media, and on sponsoring mutual trade delegations between the United States and Ethiopia with specific focus on Black-owned businesses in America and in Ethiopia.

This will be another answer to the centuries-long prayers of all people of African descent for global unity, progress and empowerment.

Others, he demanded, refuse.

I went to Congress to discuss the GERD issue, and one of the congressmen opened a New York Times article [quoting just one farmer in Egypt], who complained about what we are doing, Ambassador Arega demurred.

Weve been sending many things to help balance the stories, but they dont.

In 2011, Ethiopia announced to build a hydroelectric dam on its Abbay River, known to outsiders as the Blue Nile or Nile River.

The dam was named the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) because it was designed to bring about the economic and renewal of Ethiopia, Ambassador Arega told NNPA Newswire.

In an op-ed, he wrote that the GERD would be the largest hydropower dam in Africa.

When completed, it is expected to generate more than 5,000 MW installed power generation capacity and will have more than two times the capacity of Hoover Dam.

The total capacity of the reservoir is 74 billion cubic meters to be filled over several years. It will cost nearly $5 billion to complete the dam, Ambassador Arega continued.

The GERD has now reached 81 percent completion, including 98.5 percent of civil, 55 percent electromechanical, and 55.3 percent of the hydroelectric structure.

Ethiopia generates 85 percent of the Nile River flow, but colonial-era and postcolonial agreements on the Nile, to which Ethiopia was not a party, have given Egypt the disproportionate amount of water while giving Sudan a lesser amount, the Ambassador wrote.

These agreements gave zero water allocation to Ethiopia. Egypt today wants to keep the old colonial arrangement in place in one form or another.

According to a 2018 World Bank report, About 70 percent of the population in Ethiopia live without electricity.

The GERD aims to provide access to electricity to more than 60 million Ethiopians and provide affordable electricity to the service, industrial and agricultural sectors.

It also aligns with Ethiopias green development ambitions as it represents a sustainable socio-economic project replacing fossil fuels reducing CO2 emissions, Ambassador Arega continued.

Therefore, for Ethiopia, building the GERD is not a matter of choice, but an economic and developmental necessity and the way out of poverty for a nation of 112 million people.
Eulogy for Janet Sparrow

Janet Cruz Sparrow passed away after a long battle with a brain tumor on Saturday, June 5, 2021. Janet Sparrow was born on May 4, 1934 to Eulogio and Inez Cruz. Along with her beloved brother, Emilio, she was born and raised in Los Angeles and she always said she never wanted to live anywhere else. Janet loved Los Angeles and all the opportunities the city had to offer.

She married Edward A. Sparrow and together they raised three beautiful children, Douglas, Jacqueline and David. She dedicated much of her life in the raising of their three children and towards a desire to learn, a desire to work very hard for what she wanted in life, and a desire to serve and mentor others.

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Janet earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education from California State University, Los Angeles, a Masters Degree from Loyola- Marymount University and Juris Doctorate Degree from the University of West Los Angeles School of Law.

Janet possessed a strong work ethic and she passed this belief on to her beloved children. She began her career as an elementary school teacher and went on to become an elementary principal. After receiving her law degree she accepted a position with Howard Hughes Aircraft Company in the Subcontracts Department and rapidly moved up the career ladder. She often described this job as the most interesting and rewarding part of her career. She was given the opportunity to travel extensively for the company and to supervise and mentor those who worked in her department. She retired in 1999.

Her professional accomplishments include: Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Kinecta Federal Credit Union, Secretary and Treasurer of the Ladera Senior Association, Trustee for Catholic Charities, Whos Who of American Women 1989-1990, mentor for Teach for America, and ABCTVs Hometown Hero for the mentoring of potential teachers.

Janet was energetic, had a strong passion for life and possessed a love of travel. The love of travel took her to almost all of the United States and to every continent in the world except Antarctica. One or more of her children would travel with her because she wanted them to see the world and what it had to offer.

Janet believed strongly in helping others whereby she became a busy volunteer after she retired. To name a few, she was a dedicated volunteer for Daniel Freeman Hospital for seven years until the hospital closed and is a loyal volunteer for St. Jerome Catholic Church where she has primarily served as a Lector, Eucharistic minister and Sacristyn.

Janet leaves behind her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, her loyal dog Tony and a host of friends to carry on her legacy and love for life.
Haitian American Artist Brings His Vision, Gift to States COVID Campaign

Californias Your Actions Save Lives art campaign recently unveiled two Safety First murals in San Francisco. The artworks, created by the Grammy-nominated visual artist Serge Gay Jr, were commissioned to encourage people to continue to take safety precautions against COVID-19 even though the state reopened last month, according to the governors office.

One is located in the Castro, the citys renowned historical gayborhood, as it is affectionately called by some locals, and the other in the Tenderloin, near downtown  two well-known districts steeped in the Golden Gate Citys famous history of Leftist political organizing and the visibility of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ+) people.

The Tenderloin mural, which he dedicates to the citys transgender community, was inspired by the idea of, breaking free because during the pandemic, we were all just home and kind of stuck there, said Gay.

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The mural, he explains, emphasizes the feeling of being free, once you get vaccinated you have that experience back again, that freedom of moseying around the city, said Gay.

Gays second artwork is located at 2390 Market Street in the Castro.

Gay says he chose the Castro district strategically since the area has a history that is committed to the safety and protection of the LGBTQ+ community.

The state says the Your Actions Save Lives campaign equips Californians with information about what they can do to help stem the spread of COVID-19. To get the word out, it partnered with The Center at the Sierra Health Foundation and 20 local artists across the state to reach communities that have been hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The project engages Latino, Black/African American, Asian American/Pacific Islander, Native American/Indigenous and LGBTQ artists and communities, according to a press release from the governors office.

The arts initiative, organizers say, is designed to raise awareness of critical actions Californians have taken to help stop the spread of COVID-19, such as wearing a mask, washing hands, physical distancing and getting vaccinated.

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These accomplished artists are tapping into their culture and creativity to share empowering messages with communities that have been hard hit by COVID-19. Art has incredible power, and we believe these works will spark important conversations, connections and inspiration throughout the state, said Chet P. Hewitt, president and CEO of The Center at Sierra Health Foundation.

According to Gay, he celebrates the Tenderloin for its inclusion of Black and Brown people. The message behind the mural places an emphasis on freedom of movement following the COVID-19 pandemic and encourages the public to get vaccinated, says the artist whose collaboration with film director Matt Stawski clinched him a Grammy nomination for Best Short Form Video.

I wanted to really kind of also showcase our trends visibility, said Gay.

The work that Gay produced for the statewide art project captures the diversity of Black and Brown people in San Franciscos LBGTQ+ community. Gay says, because of his own personal experiences, he realizes that it is important to represent Black and Brown people in his work. He remembers feeling unwanted and invisible when he first moved to San Francisco from Miami.

Being part of the LGBT community is just wanting to kind of have the opportunity to show diversity on everything, said Gay.

As a third-generation artist, Gay wants Black people to recognize themselves in his artwork. When he sees artwork centered around Black people, Gay says, he often thinks to himself, This is me, it resonates with me when I see another artist painting something that I can relate to.

The fine artist attributes his artistic style (some critics have described it as graphic realism)  as well as his personal flair  to his Haitian culture and heritage as well as his upbringing in Miami, which taught him life lessons about the importance of community. As a Haitian American artist, Gay wants his work to indicate that Blackness is not a monolith. Gay pays homage to his Haitian roots through his artwork which celebrates various Black communities in the Bay Area  African Americans as well as African and Caribbean immigrants, he explains.

I have this sense that everything is like a celebration of our culture, identity, and roots. So, I tend to put down a lot in my work, bringing the fresh immigrant story, almost like an outsider perspective, said Gay.

Although there is misinformation and disinformation, Gay wants his work to reassure people that the vaccine is safe. Racial disparities in the healthcare system had a devastating impact on Black communities across the nation. Gay stressed that the number of lives lost due to COVID-19 in Black and Brown communities indicates that people need to get vaccinated.

An award-winning artist, Gay says the COVID-19 pandemic pushed various Black communities to, come together to fight for a cause.

He said it important for Black and Brown communities to remember what we have learned through this and figure out how we move forward and how we deal with it the next time.

Through his artwork, Gay takes on the responsibility of, educating people to go back to what happened in the past and to learn from the past, he said.
Jehovah Witnesses Hold Virtual Event in 240 Lands, 500+ Languages

Breaking a century-old tradition in the name of health and safety, the largest convention organization in the world has moved its annual in-person event to a virtual format for the second year in a row, canceling nearly 6,000 conventions in 240 lands.

For 24 consecutive years, the summers in Long Beach featured Jehovahs Witnesses visiting the city, filling hotels and restaurants as they held their conventions at the Long Beach Arena. In 2020, the pandemic unexpectedly interrupted that tradition, moving the international religious organization to cancel in-person conventions worldwide and launch a global virtual event. This was a first for Jehovahs Witnesses, who have held public conventions in stadiums, arenas, convention centers and theaters around the world since 1897.

Powerful by Faith! is the theme of the 2021 convention, which will be delivered in more than 500 languages virtually over six weekends during July and August. The program, usually held Friday through Sunday, will be available in six installments corresponding to morning and afternoon sessions  uniting some 15-20 million people in 240 countries. Sessions are also available for streaming or download.

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Linnie and Cathy Brown of Los Angeles used to attend the three-day program at the Long Beach Arena. It gave us a sense of normalcy despite the devastation of COVID-19, Linnie said while reflecting on last years virtual convention. Whether virtual or in-person, the conventions offer pragmatic solutions to the problems we face. This year, the couple is once again looking forward to drawing closer as a family by watching the virtual program together.

The continued risk of bringing thousands of people together prompted the organization to opt for a virtual platform for the second consecutive year. However, the move has not curbed the enthusiasm for the annual event. Jehovahs Witnesses worldwide are inviting the public to this historic occasion.

Faith has helped our global brotherhood to continue to thrive even during a pandemic, said Robert Hendriks, U.S. spokesman for Jehovahs Witnesses. Our faith will continue to unite us in worship  even virtually  as millions gather in private homes around the world to enjoy a powerful and inspiring spiritual program.

All are invited to attend the event by going to jw.org or JW Broadcasting on the free JW Library iOS or Android App, or on streaming platforms like ROKU TV, Apple TV, and others. The program is free and accessible to all. The schedule for download and global streaming is listed below.

For more information, contact Jehovahs Witnesses United States at (718) 560-5600 or [email protected]
New Strain of Covid Proving Fatal to Unvaccinated People

Dont put away that mask. While the American public might be celebrating the lifting of the tightest COVID-19 restrictions in most parts of the United States, the coronavirus pandemic is far from over.

According to medical doctors, the United States is currently dealing with a new strain of the virus, the Delta variant, which is more lethal and virulent than previous strains. The Delta variant originated in India towards the end of last year and was first identified in America in March.

The Los Angeles County Health Department is so worried about a new outbreak, its told residents to mask up again.

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Since the Delta variant is more infectious than other variants, Public Health recommends wearing a mask around others in indoor spaces, regardless of vaccination status, said the LA County Department of Health in a tweet.

Dr. Jerry Abraham, director of Kedren Vaccines at Kedren Health in Los Angeles, has already seen signs of the new strain in the Los Angeles community. He said medical professionals are already gearing up for what he called the 5th wave of the coronavirus pandemic.

Its already in LA, he said. We assume the rates will go back up.

Like other viruses, COVID-19 is constantly mutating. When the virus encounters new hosts (particularly unvaccinated bodies,) it changes and gets stronger. The best way to eliminate the disease is to vaccinate about 70 % of residents in a community (herd immunity,) so the virus doesnt have any places to grow and survive.

Dr. Eric Feigl-Ding, an epidemiologist and health economist and a senior fellow at the Federation of American Scientists in Washington, D.C., emphasized this point during a recent Ethnic Media Services virtual briefing on the efficacy of continued mask use.

The more warm bodies the virus has, the more opportunity it will have to mutate, said Feigl-Deing, who is also the Chief Health Economist for Microclinic International, a San Francisco-based non-profit that bills itself as an organization that revolutionize how deadly diseases are prevented and managed worldwide.

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If you let it spread, it will mutate, he warned.

Feigl-Ding added, at this stage, reaching herd immunity is not realistic, and we need to look at alternative solutions to contain the virus, such as continued mask usage, ventilation, hand washing, disinfecting surfaces and air purification devices.

But over the last year, the debate about vaccinations became political. A large number of people who supported former President Donald Trump downplayed the virus and accused Democrats of overstating the severity of the pandemic. A lot of those skeptics even refused to take the vaccines.

Some say they dont trust the science. Others do it to resist what they see as pressure coming from liberals.

But health experts say, refusing to take one of the three vaccines approved to fight COVID-19 in the United States is dangerous and only allows the virus to thrive.

Data is beginning to show the effects of politicizing public health. Deaths and infections are going up in red states, while the numbers have been steadily declining in blue states.

A study from the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore, Maryland, finds that states with Republican governors have experienced the highest number of COVID-19 cases and deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Medical News Today.

Medical data shows that 99 % of recent Covid 19 deaths were unvaccinated people, according to Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nations leading virologist and director of the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

Abraham is a big proponent of vaccination and estimates his clinic has given about 300,000 inoculations to people in the South Los Angeles area. But he still sees worrying trends. According to Abraham, only about 40% of Black Men in the area are vaccinated.

He is also troubled by the attitude he sees in a demographic he calls the Invincibles (young people in their late teens and early 20s who dont think theyll ever get sick.) Many of them, Abraham says, ar reluctant to take the vaccination, even though theyre eligible.

Abraham said he encountered many Invincibles at the recent Juneteenth celebration in Los Angeles, and many of them had a nonchalant attitude towards Covid-19. He said many young people he encouraged to get vaccinated said, Ill get over it. They think if they eat right and are healthy, theyll survive Covid, he said.

But Abraham said healthy people can get sick and still need to get vaccinated.

Youre never going to exercise or eat your way off a ventilator, said Abraham.

Abraham also warned the situation would worsen during the fall when it gets colder, and people spend more time inside.

Its not a matter of if, said Abraham.

He also said that pandemic diseases are becoming more common. There are several reasons why this could be occurring, such as overpopulation, children growing up in sterilized environments, poor nutrition, global warming, poor health and poor sanitation in the developing world.

And we live in an increasingly globalized world, so its easy for a disease that originated on the other side of the world to end up in the West.

What happens in South Asia will affect us in L.A., said Abraham.
PA Supreme Court Judge Rips Cosby Prosecutor: He Broke the Rules

While social media and many who still have not understood the Pennsylvania Supreme Courts decision to overturn Bill Cosbys conviction continue to mislabel their decision as a technicality, the chief justice remarkably refuted those claims.

He also blasted Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele, saying the case was a case of bait and switch.

[Steele] didnt just break the deal [Cosby had with former prosecutor Bruce Castor], he broke the rules, Chief Justice Max Baer told Philadelphias local ABC News affiliate.

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What we said is were not gonna let the commonwealth, the state through the district attorneys to engage in that kind of reprehensible bait and switch, Justice Baer asserted.

He emphasized that the courts decision wasnt to protect Cosby but the 13 million Pennsylvanians against that kind of conduct.

Justice Baer concluded that it wasnt the Supreme Courts duty to find guilt or innocence on the part of Cosby. However, what the court did find was an illegal prosecution on the part of Steele.

What we found was what the state did was inappropriate, Justice Baer insisted.

Cosby won his freedom on June 29 after spending nearly three years in prison after a 2018 conviction of indecent aggravated assault.

The comedian and his team have since argued with those who have called the decision by the Supreme Court to overturn his conviction a technicality.

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Youre sitting in a room trying to explain something, and there is a knock on the door. You say, who is it? [The response is], It is the truth. So, people start jumping out of the window, Cosby told the Black Press in his only extensive interview since his release.

The courts decision was not a technicality, said Cosby. These people sound like they havent read what the judges have written. Its not a technicality. These [detractors] dont want to know anything. Its like the woman who said she knows five women that I drugged and raped. Well, where are they?

Steele responded to Justice Baer.

Despite former prosecutor Bruce Castor providing written affidavits directly to Steele and offering his testimony in pre-trial hearings, Steele incredulously claimed he didnt know a previous deal existed between the commonwealth and Cosby.

To be very clear, prosecutors, in this case, did not believe there was an agreement not to prosecute or immunity for the defendant at the time we moved forward on the case, and we do not believe it now, Steele told ABC News. If we had believed there was an agreement or immunity, we would not have moved forward in our attempt to bring Cosby to justice.

Meanwhile, Cosby has already begun plans to resume his stand-up career.

He plans to appear at an autism event in August to entertain those supporting that cause.

The I-Spy legend is also taking part in a documentary about his life and trials produced by former ABC Good Morning America producer Michelle Major.

Theres a big smile on my face, Cosby insisted. A big smile on my face because I was there.

I know what happened, and Im watching and hearing these fascists and Nazis, and I watched them really come out of the woodworks as termites. The infestation of when [former President] Donald Trump came through, and they just let it all hang out. Thats who they are.

Thats who their ancestors are. They want their ancestors to be people who came here for religious freedoms after being persecuted  but by whom? Things werent right in dear old England.

They got on these ships, but you were criminals, and people signed on to look after wealthy peoples findings. Christopher Columbus got as lost as a White man can get, but got off the boat, took a flag, and said he would name this and so forth and so on.
Pitzer College Names Kimberly Shiner VP for College Advancement and Communications

Pitzer College has named Kimberly Shiner, a proven leader in higher education fundraising and external relations, as its new vice president for college advancement and communications effective August 1. Shiner was selected in May following a competitive national search.

Shiner brings to this new role more than 20 years of leadership experience as a successful fundraiser, team builder, and communications professional. She currently serves as the associate vice president for university advancement, Office of Philanthropic Giving, at California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB), where she has worked for the past seven years. At CSUSB, Shiner played a leadership role in the universitys first comprehensive campaign, which exceeded its $50 million goal and was completed a year ahead of schedule.

Prior to CSUSB, Shiner was in leadership positions at the University of Southern California (USC), where she worked for 13 years in various roles. As senior executive director of development for USC government and civic engagement, she managed fundraising and communications for her division. Shiner also served as senior associate director of foundation relations for the Keck School of Medicine of USC and as executive director of development, corporate, and foundation relations for the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, where she was a key member of the team that cultivated numerous principal gifts, including the $200 million gift to name the college.

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In addition to her extensive experience in educational advancement, Shiner has worked with communications firms in Los Angeles and Orange counties, conducting media relations and developing strategic plans.

Throughout her professional life, Shiner has distinguished herself as a passionate promoter of higher education and a champion of diversity, equity, and inclusion. She has demonstrated a deep commitment to civic engagement and service in many organizations at many levels. She earned her bachelors degree in journalism and her masters degree in public administration (nonprofit management) from California State University, Northridge.

Kimberly received enthusiastic support from every constituency that interviewed her, said Pitzer College President Melvin L. Oliver. I am confident she will be successful leading the recently combined areas of Advancement and Communications at Pitzer, and I know she will help further Pitzers ability to live out our values.

Pitzer College is a nationally top-ranked undergraduate liberal arts and sciences institution. A member of The Claremont Colleges, Pitzer offers a distinctive approach to a liberal arts education by linking intellectual inquiry with interdisciplinary studies, cultural immersion, social responsibility and community involvement. For more information, please visit www.pitzer.edu.
Public Health Monitors Variant Outbreaks, Urge Students to Get Vaccinated Before School Year

Current numbers on outbreaks of Delta Variant are lower than earlier in the year.

Over 99% of the COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths we are seeing are among unvaccinated individuals, said Barbara Ferrer, PhD, MPH, MEd, director of Public Health. Of the cases reported, nearly 87% were under 50-years-old.

Los Angeles County is still dealing with the Delta Variant of COVID-19 as the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (Public Health) stated they were investigating 55 ongoing outbreaks earlier this week, which had risen from 44 reported a month ago. These numbers according to Public Health are lower than what was observed in February, but vaccinations are still being recommended at the best safety precaution against the variant.

The COVID-19 vaccines are the most effective and important tool to reduce COVID-19 transmission and the spread of variants like the highly transmissible Delta variant, said Ferrer. Getting fully vaccinated is the way we protect you, your family and our community from COVID-19 and the Delta variant.

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Public Health is encouraging everyone unvaccinated to get fully vaccinated as schools and colleges start for the 2021 -2022 school year. Unvaccinated parties are still being asked to wear masks indoors or in vehicles with others for their safety. Upon request, employers are required to offer unvaccinated employees, who work indoors, with a respirator for voluntary use. Employees should consider wearing a higher level of protection, such as wearing two masks (double masking) or wearing a respirator (N95) when working in close quarters with others. Employers are also required to report any cluster (three or more lab confirmed cases of COVID-19) of worksite COVID-19 cases to Public Health.

As of Monday, July 12, Public Health reported some delays to the numbers of new deaths but stated 1,059 new cases of COVID-19. There were 372 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 with 16% of nearly 7,120,000 individuals testing positive with symptoms.

Public Health identified 1,258,685 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of L.A. County and a total of 24,543 deaths. Cases across the Southland: Los Angeles County shows 11,993,375 cases, Long Beach with 53,885 cases and Pasadena with 11,425 cases.

According to race and ethnicity, COVID-19 statistics show: American Indian/Alaska Native with 2,029; Asian with 57,228; Black with 48,915; Hispanic/Latino with 637,649; Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander with 4,291; White with 133,084; those of other race and ethnicity with 100,228 and 209,951 under investigation.

For more detailed information on COVID-19 vaccination plans in L.A. County and to sign up for a vaccination newsletter, visit: www.VaccinateLACounty.com

For more information and statistics on COVID-19 in Los Angeles County, please visit http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/

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Always check with trusted sources for the latest accurate information about novel coronavirus:

*Los Angeles County Department of Public Health http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/

*California Department of Public Health https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Immunization/ncov2019.aspx

*Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019- ncov/index.html Spanish https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index-sp.html

*World Health Organization https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus

*LA County residents can also call 2-1-1
Reward in 2009 Inglewood Shooting of Preschool Teacher Now Totals $35,000

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors offered or renewed $10,000 rewards today for information leading to the killers of a 24-year-old preschool teacher sitting in a parked car in Inglewood in 2009 and a 53-year-old father of three shot to death in the backyard of his Windsor Hills home in 2019.

Supervisor Holly Mitchell recommended the reward in the case of Crystal Crawford, a Los Angeles resident killed on May 31, 2009. In 2019, Inglewood approved a $25,000 reward so the reward money now totals $35,000.

Around 10:30 p.m. that night, Crawford and three friends were sitting in a car parked in a residential neighborhood near 95th Street and Eighth Avenue when another car pulled up alongside. Someone inside the second car shouted something and then opened fire before speeding away.

Crawfords boyfriend drove her to Centinela Hospital, where she died the following morning.

Anyone with additional information on the killing was urged to call Inglewood Police Department Detective Michael Oppelt at 310-412-8683 or an anonymous tip line, 888-412-7463.

Mitchell also asked the board to renew a $10,000 reward for information about the Feb. 8, 2019, killing of 53-year-old Timothy Jackson at his home in the 3500 block of Floresta Avenue in Windsor Hills. That reward was set to expire Saturday but will now be available for at least 90 days.

Jackson, a father of three children who worked in the real estate industry, was found dead in his backyard with multiple gunshot wounds by deputies responding to 911 calls reporting gunfire around 10:30 p.m.

Mitchell encouraged anyone with information on Jacksons killing to call the Sheriffs Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500 or Crime Stoppers at 800-222- TIPS (8477).

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Two Women Lead Metro to New Heights; First Time in 28-Year History

New Metro President Stephanie Wiggins and Metro Board Chairperson Hilda Solis are set to implement a new vision for the transportation agency.

On Tuesday, July 6, Los Angeles City Mayor Eric Garcetti joined newly appointed Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins and Metro Board Chair Hilda L. Solis for the annual State of the Agency Address. Metro employees, community leaders, and stakeholders sat among the audience, participating in the navigation of Metros future.

The panel included Mayor Garcetti, Supervisor Solis, Metros Chief Executive Officer Wiggins, and Ara Najarian, Glendale City Council member and Metro Board member. The gathering connected with community and reflected on how Metro can do more for the people.

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The CEO of Metro stated, Under my leadership, we will pursue new and more effective ways of addressing homelessness. Wiggins continued, We will address unhoused people on our system with compassion and dignity. We will collaborate with our city and community partners and social services.

The chief executive officer is looking to transform the way Metro collaborates with the community by introducing more inclusivity and non-aggressive practices within their foundation. This will include the use of outreach teams that will care for unhoused individuals, health clinicians, and other key staff to elevate the Metro experience. The main purpose of Metro is to connect the community to their destination and propel the city into the future.

Wiggins began her four-year term as Metro CEO last month; she has built a strong rapport in her previous position as chief executive officer of Metrolink. In addition to her credentials and experience as Metros executive director of vendor/contract management, Wiggins has helped various parts of the L.A. region. In 2018, she became their first woman of color in a chief executive officer position.

As the new CEO for L.A. Metro, she will oversee its multi-billion-dollar budget and be entrusted with another multi-billion-dollar financial plan that recent calculated reports have counted Metros current fiscal year to be $6 billion. Wiggins has shown within the first month, that the navigation of Metro is in the right hands.

One of the essential ingredients to Metros success include the PATH team. According to a press release found on Metro.net, the program was introduced in 2017. Metro PATH became active under the watch of former Metro Board Chair John Fasana. He offered this statement at the time, Fortunately, Metro is in a position to partner with L.A. County Department of Health Services (DHS) and People Assisting the Homeless (PATH) to begin to address the dire homeless situation that tragically affects so many people.

Metro PATH is part of the unsheltered action plan that includes County-City-Community teams (C3); they directly engage with the people experiencing homelessness and connect them with the necessary services. C3 consists of nurses, substance abuse counselors, mental health professionals, and former individuals who experienced homelessness and took shelter in Metro stations, trains, and buses.

The subject of inclusivity was also introduced during the assembly on July 6; in addition to racial equity, Wiggins highlighted gender and age. Chief Executive Officer Wiggins announced a new branch entitled the Youth Council; it looks to elevate the perspective of young riders in the conversation about our future. Numbers have shown a significant amount of the Metro passenger demographic are the citys youth.

During the gathering, Wiggins shared that approximately 66,000 student TAP cards being used, about 4.7% of the countys K-12 population. The Metro Youth Council is an initiative looking to empower the youth riding public transportation by zooming into their needs and safety. This directive is following the pilot program that launched in May; the Metropolitan Transportation Authority Board of Directors approved a 23-month experimental system that will make buses and trains free for students starting in August, low-income riders will also receive the courtesy in January.

Wiggins stated, I believe the focus on initiatives like the youth council and our fareless initiative are about making decisions that impact riders today and far into the future. The Metro CEO explained that the plan is to nourish the Metro system transformation and to create an impetus of being the first choice of transportation in the City of Los Angeles. Comparing the use of public transportation to places such as New York and London, Wiggins said, In those cities, its just what people do. Public transportation is their obvious choice. I want Angelenos to think that way.

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Following those announcements, was the ceremonial passing of the gavel from former Metro Chair Mayor Garcetti to the new leader of the Metro board, Supervisor Solis. As the title exchange was officiated, Mayor Garcetti stated, This is the first time in our history that both the chair and CEO are women, and I always say sometimes some lucky men sneak through but if women just ran the world, wed all be better off. Solis and Wiggins will be the first combination of women as chair and CEO to concurrently serve at Metro in its 28-year history.

Supervisor Solis went on to outline her goals as the new Metro Chair; they were aligned with the overall vision Wiggins outlined in earlier parts of the gathering. Solis called for an increase in attention towards affordable housing; she looks to obtain additional properties that would dedicate to the construction and staging of new stages. The new Metro board chair noted she would like to also direct her focus to affordable housing locations.

The newly appointed Metro Chair stated, Many bus riders have an average annual income of just $18,000 a year. These are the residents that need affordable housing the most. By increasing transit service and tapping into affordable housing projects, we can help prevent displacement of vulnerable communities and give support to riders that need it the most.

The Metro Board of Directors has already begun to prioritize affordable housing. As of June 24, Solis and other board members voted to update the Joint Development Policy, to organize the construction of income-restricted housing on unused Metro-owned property.

The overall goal for Metro is connection, not only in a physical sense but in the hearts of the community. Metro CEO Wiggins and Metro Chair Solis are synchronized in the mission to elevate the riders experience but also connect their path to a higher quality of life.
Unapologetically Fighting for Black Student Success // No. 3

At Compton College, every student is a success story, which is not just a statement, but our campus motto. I believe every community college student can be successful with the right academic and student support services. And that right there is the key, support. No one succeeds alone, and our Black students are no exception. In our continued fight for Black student success, we must be bold and innovative in addressing this student groups issues while removing the barriers that keep them from meeting their goals. But implementing more programs and services is not enough. Its time to expand our reach beyond the academic institutions and build a system of support both on campus and in the alumni community so students feel confident in their abilities and have role models who prove that success is possible.

This third article in my Unapologetically Fighting for Black Student Success series focuses on alumni as partners in education. Graduates are in a unique position to mentor and guide current students and hold colleges and universities accountable for student success.

Establishing University Connections

Alumni are linked to their alma mater in many ways, a connection that starts in their first days on campus. When I started my second year at the University of California, Santa Cruz, I didnt see too many students like me, so I created a program called Destination Higher Education that invites admitted Black students to the campus to learn more about the university and meet other students. Today its the most significant recruitment activity at UC Santa Cruz for admitting Black students, representing 4.6% of the student body. Its programs like this that begin to build meaningful connections. After finishing my bachelors degree in American studies at UC Santa Cruz, I returned to education to earn a doctorate at the University of California, Irvine, where I previously worked as director of the Early Academic Outreach Program. While at UCI, I re-established a partnership between local school districts, including Compton Unified School District and the university. Today, I continue to work with students while connecting with the university, in addition to supporting three different scholarships I established at my alma maters. Yet, I know students from across the nation tell stories about finding a shortage of support and lack of connection to their higher education institution.

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After graduation, many students are ready to move on, but alumni need to continue their relationship with their alma mater and classmates. They can become involved in efforts to improve the college experience of current students and make changes on many levels. Colleges and universities rely on alumni for donations, job placement leads, and serving as ambassadors of the brand. In return, alumni must take an activist role and motivate institutions to create programs and policies that promote equity and inclusion. In spring 2018, I wrote a piece for UC Santa Cruz Magazine titled Stay Connected; It Isnt All About the Money. In this article, I encourage alumni to become connected or reconnected with the university. Furthermore, I mentioned that being engaged is not always about money (though, of course, colleges and universities will gladly accept a donation). Instead, it is about giving back to students (remember when you were one?) and maintaining a connection with the academic programs, fellow alumni, and, most importantly, with UC Santa Cruz, which has made a difference in my life.

More than ever, Black alumni must advocate and support Black students at the institutions we attended and graduated from.

Developing Alumni Connections

At UC Santa Cruz, I was fortunate to meet lifelong friends who are now prominent alumni  including Bill Casher, the associate director of laboratory operations at (PPD) Gilead Sciences. Back then, we were active in the UC Santa Cruz Black Mens Alliance (BMA), a dynamic group that focuses on building community, discussing current topics, and participating in community service projects. In June 2020, after the murder of George Floyd, we reconnected with the BMA by establishing an alumni group that meets weekly; not surprisingly, we found the same sense of community from our university days. Being together again, we realized we have so much power as a group, and we need to do more than talk on a Tuesday, Bill noted. We found that we were ready to pursue a level of activism much larger than ourselves and our own thoughts. I am proud to be a part of this group that now directly works with undergrads. So many in our group are accomplished in their field. I agree with Bill that we have a responsibility to help, whether that means getting students in touch with professionals in their areas of interest or listening about their campus experiences as Black men and offering guidance.

Bill explained that after graduating, many alumni do want to give back and often will just write a check. But Black people deserve more than that, they need more than that, he said. We need to build community, a sustainable model to engage universities to serve the Black student population. Back then, the goal of BMA was to put our words into practice; the same is true for our alumni group today. We are now focusing on building monetary support, creating mentorship, recruitment, and retention programs, and utilizing our network to bridge the gap between professions and graduation. We also want to help with student debt and show how the cost of college disproportionally affects students of color.

What we hear on our weekly phone calls is that universities often neglect their alumni in specific demographics, particularly Black alumni. When they reach out, they dont account for the Black student experience or the Black alumni experience. There is a disconnect there  it is very obvious  and alumni need to change that. There are many groups of alumni from our California community colleges and universities that are meeting and interacting with our students, now its time to formalize these groups and meet with college and university leaders to discuss the Black student experience and ask the colleges and universities what role or assistance they need from us. After the initial meeting, we must make sure we hold these colleges and universities accountable for their actions or lack of action related to Black student success.

Closing the Loop

As president/CEO of Compton College, I am held accountable by the elected Compton Community College District Board of Trustees, residents, faculty, staff, managers, and most importantly, our students. But for me, I am not just a college president. I am a Black college president, and with that comes an additional layer of accountability linked to the history of the Black experience in America. I have a responsibility to do more for my community than the generation before so I can continue the legacy of the people who achieved so much in previous years. I see this accountability as a great opportunity to support our students, and we need to act now to improve the success of Black students. I am fully aware of how vital Compton College is to our community, offering educational opportunities along with economic and social mobility. Thats why I make no apologies for my work toward ensuring the success of Black students. This student group is already underrepresented in higher education, so it is worrisome to see these same students overrepresented in enrollment decline. Bringing in alumni  and not just Black alumni  as activists and changemakers is one way we can help Black students achieve.

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In closing, in fall 2019, I led an accreditation visit to the college program in San Quentin State Prison and met individual students who are from the neighborhood where I grew up. People from our community. They were surprised to see a young Black male as a community college president. And I dont take that lightly. While I am in this position, I need to use this platform as a college activist, not just a college president, to make sure education is accessible to all. I personally understand the struggles many in my community face to obtain an education. I recognize the variety of obstacles in their way, and thats what we will talk about next week  examining how we can remove some of those barriers that are keeping Black students from accessing and completing their education.
Thursday, July 15, 2021

From the synopsis of a decision issued yesterday by the Montana Supreme Court

The Montana Supreme Court held unanimously today that the State Legislature exceeded the scope of its legislative functions when it issued subpoenas for the electronic records of Judicial Branch Court Administrator Beth McLaughlin. The Court ruled that the subpoenas sought information not related to a valid legislative purpose, information that is confidential by law, and information in which third parties have a constitutionally protected individual privacy interest. The subpoenas arose from the Legislatures stated concern about the practice of polling judges for what it called prejudg[ing] legislation and issues that may come before the courts. In todays Opinion, the Court first rejected the Legislatures argument that the Supreme Court had no authority to rule on the case because it presented a direct conflict between the two branches of government that could be handled only through negotiation between the branches. Citing a courts unflagging responsibility to decide cases and controversies, the Supreme Court noted that disputes over the scope of legislative subpoena power had been litigated in numerous cases and are squarely within the authority of the courts. It referred to the U.S. Supreme Courts recent decision in Trump v. Mazars, in which the High Court ruled on Congressional subpoenas to the President and set forth a balance of factors that courts must consider in examining subpoenas to minimize interbranch confrontation. The Montana Supreme Court rejected the Legislatures argument that it needed McLaughlins e-mails to investigate the potential for bias among judges who could be considering court challenges to legislation. First, under the Montana Constitution, the Judicial Standards Commission, not the Legislature, investigates allegations of judicial misconduct. Any concern about a judge making statements about cases that are or could come before the courts would be within the exclusive authority of the Judicial Standards Commission and the Supreme Court. Second, the U.S. Supreme Court in Republican Party v. White (2002) struck down as a First Amendment violation a Minnesota law prohibiting candidates for judicial election from announcing their views on disputed legal and political issues. Impartiality, the Supreme Court explained in White, guarantees a party that the judge who hears the case will apply the law to that party in the same way the judge applies it to any other party. A judges views regarding the relevant legal issues in a case is not a necessary component of equal justice. The Supreme Court explained in White that impartiality also means open-mindedness: This quality in a judge demands, not that he [editor's note: or she] have no preconceptions on legal issues, but that he be willing to consider views that oppose his preconceptions, and remain open to persuasion, when issues arise in a pending case. The Montana Supreme Court emphasized the rules of judicial conduct that encourage judges to share their special expertise with the Legislature on matters concerning the law, the legal system, and court administration.

...In a separate concurring opinion, Justice Sandefur noted his complete concurrence in the comprehensive analysis and holdings in the majority opinion but wrote separately to further concur in Justice McKinnons special concurrence, as supplemental reasoning wholly consistent with the Courts main analysis and holdings. Justice Sandefur further stressed the critical importance of adherence and respect for the constitutional separation of powers and the rule of law in the face of the reckless crisis unscrupulously ginned-up for the purely partisan purpose of undermining the constitutional function of Montanas duly-elected non-partisan Judicial Branchto conduct independent review of legislative enactments for compliance with the supreme law of this state, the Montana Constitution.

From Justice McKinnon's special concurrence

By addressing the particulars and substance of the subpoenas (public records and records retention, Opinion,  22-31; use of state resources to lobby, Opinion,  32-37; statements by judges, Opinion,  38-45; overbreadth, Opinion,  47, process attendant to issuing subpoenas, Opinion,  48) the Court, though correct on the law, obscures the mark. In doing so, the Court implicitly lends credibility and legitimacy to a legislative act which was blatantly designed to interfere with, if not malign, a coequal and independent branch of government. The constitutional doctrine of separation of powers does not tolerate the control, interference, or intimidation of one branch of government by another. Upon this basis I would quash the subpoenas.

Noting that Montana is not 17th century England [editor's note: not yet]

In conclusion, it seems fitting, given the circumstances of this litigation and its blemish upon Montanas history, that a final reference to Marbury v. Madison be had. The powers of the legislature are defined, and limited; and that those limits may not be mistaken, or forgotten, the constitution is written. Marbury, 5 U.S. (1 Cranch) at 176. The constitutional doctrine of separation of powers is one such limit. It is upon this basis that I would resolve these proceedings.

Justice Sandifer

Contrary to the irresponsible rhetoric that has and will likely continue to spew forth from those intoxicated with their long-sought unitary control over the political branches of government, this case is not about judicial disregard of the publics right to know, noncompliance with applicable public records retention laws, judicial bias, or judicial lobbying. The Courts opinion clearly lays bare the absurdity of those patently false and intentionally inflammatory political talking-points, revealing a far more sinister motive. Beyond the smoke-screen of the catchy but demonstrably false allegations leveled against the judiciary is an unscrupulously calculated and coordinated partisan campaign to undermine the constitutional function of Montanas duly-elected nonpartisan judicial branch to conduct independent judicial review of legislative enactments for compliance with the supreme law of this statethe Montana Constitution.

(Mike Frisch)

https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/legal_profession/2021/07/from-the-synopsis-of-a-decision-issued-yesterday-by-the-montana-supreme-court-the-montana-supreme-court-held-unanimously-tod.html
Thousands of people across Cuba protested last Sunday in the largest anti-government demonstrations on the island in decades.

Shortly after the protests began, Cuban officials blocked access to social media sites including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Telegram. Such sites are often used in the organizing of political protests.

A London-based internet traffic observer, NetBlocks, said Tuesday that disruption of those social media services continues in Cuba.

This does seem to be a response to social media-fueled protest, NetBlocks director Alp Toker told The Associated Press.

Thousands of Cubans joined demonstrations in cities and towns across the Caribbean island on Sunday. They were protesting an economic crisis and the governments actions in connection with COVID-19. Some protesters called for an end to Cubas communist political system.

The countrys problems have worsened since the United States increased economic and travel restrictions against Cuba during the administration of former President Donald Trump. In 2018, the United Nations estimated that Americas longstanding financial and trade restrictions on Cuba had cost the countrys economy $130 billion over almost 60 years.

The current economic crisis has led to shortages of food, medicine, and widespread power outages. In addition, a rise in COVID-19 infections and a lack of vaccines has pushed some hospitals to the edge of collapse.

Cuba's government accuses opponents in the U.S. of organizing the recent political uprising on the island. It also says the U.S. government finances their efforts.

Both anti-government protesters and government supporters took to the streets on Sunday. By Monday, no large crowds were reported, as security forces were deployed to the streets.

Many protesters had used their phones to capture images to send to others and publish online. But internet access was restricted during the protests and by Monday, the government was blocking most major social media sites except for Twitter, NetBlocks said.

One Cuban citizen discussed the situation over email with VOA Learning English Wednesday. The person asked not to be identified because of the sensitive nature of the issues discussed.

The emailer told VOA that internet access had returned in Cuba, but that the system was operating at a very slow speed. And, the person wrote, the only news and information currently available to the Cuban public is that provided by government-owned media.

The individual said the demonstrations were fueled by electricity cuts, shortages of food and medicines and long lines for buying basic necessities. The situation had gotten worse because of COVID-19 restrictions.

Internet access in Cuba has been costly and mostly rare until fairly recently. Cuba was basically offline until 2008, said Ted Henken, a Latin America expert at New Yorks Baruch College. He told the AP the biggest change came in December 2018, when Cubans got access to mobile internet for the first time. Today, more than half of all Cubans have full internet access, Henken said.

Since early 2019, this access has led to some smaller political events and protests being held on the island. In response, the government sometimes cuts access to social media. Henken says it does so mainly to hide its own repressive actions.

Cuba also restricts independent media within the country and routinely blocks access within Cuba to many news websites and blogs, Human Rights Watch reports.

Gino Ocumares lives in Havana and spoke to Reuters as he tried but failed to connect to the web on his wireless device. "Our weapon is the internet. If they take away the internet we are unarmed," he said. "The government does not want people to see the truth."

In other countries, government internet shutdowns before or after protests have become common. A British digital privacy research group, Top10VPN, estimated that in 2020, there were 93 major internet shutdowns in 21 countries.

Last year, the Ethiopian government shut down internet access across the country for three weeks following civil unrest. The shutdown in Ethiopias Tigray area has continued for months. In Belarus, the internet went down for more than two days after a disputed election in August 2020 led to mass protests.

Major internet disruptions by governments have happened this year in Myanmar, Armenia, Uganda, Iran, Chad, Senegal and the Republic of Congo.

Im Bryan Lynn.

Bryan Lynn wrote this story for VOA Learning English, based on reports from The Associated Press, Reuters, VOA News and additional reporting. Caty Weaver was the editor.

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page.

Quiz - Cuba Is Latest Nation to Restrict Social Media During Protests Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz

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Words in This Story

decade  n. a period of ten years

disrupt  v. to cause something to be unable to continue in the normal way

respond  v. to say or do something as an answer or reaction to something that has been said or done

access  n. the right or ability to approach, enter or use

routine  adj. things that happen on a regular basis


An international rights group says the United States should accept millions of refugees who will be forced to flee the effects of climate change.

Refugees International is a group that supports displaced people around the world. It released its report Wednesday.

The group says the United States has a special responsibility to lead on issues of climate change, migration and displacement.

The Institute of Economics and Peace is a not-for-profit research group based in Australia. It estimates that as many as 1.2 billion people around the world could be displaced by 2050.

Refugees International created a task force in the spring to produce its report. It is made up of former U.S. government and United Nations officials. Leaders of non-governmental groups and climate experts are also involved.

Their report urges that: From Haiti and Honduras to Bangladesh, Burkina Faso and thousands of communities in both the Global South and Global North, those at risk need policy solutions today.

Kayly Ober is with Refugees International. She said her group believes that the Biden administration should acknowledge the reality of climate-related migration and offer new forms of protection and support for the displaced.

The task force is also advising that the U.S. should recognize people displaced by climate change face what would amount to persecution under the 1951 United Nations treaty on refugees.

Biden ordered a study of climate migration problem

In February, U.S. President Joe Biden asked National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan to examine how to identify and resettle people who will be displaced by climate change.

A top administration official told VOA that the administration is actively working on a report on climate change and its impact on migration, including forced migration, internal displacement and planned relocation. The official said that a version of the report would be made public by the fall.

U.S. Senator Edward Markey of Massachusetts, a Democratic Party member, is supporting legislation on that issue. It would offer support for people fleeing climate change events who do not meet the definition of a refugee under international law.

Opposition to the groups proposals

Some lawmakers and immigration policy groups are likely to oppose any expansion of immigration.

Ira Mehlman is with the Federation for American Immigration Reform, a group that calls for changes to immigration policy. He said the proposal from Refugees Internationals task force would harm Americas ability to deal with the causes of climate change.

Mehlman noted that the American immigration system is already struggling with more than 1.3 million asylum cases. He added that inviting millions of people to be considered refugees based on claims of harm as a result of climate change would cause the system to collapse.

Roy Beck is with the group NumbersUSA, which calls for immigration restrictions. Beck called the task forces proposal for few immigration limits problematic. He said that migration and refugee resettlement harm the ability of lower-skilled Americans and minorities to get and hold jobs.

Earlier this year, Biden announced the U.S. would increase climate-related aid for developing countries by 2024 compared to spending under former President Barack Obama. For the financial year of 2022, Biden has called for spending $2.5 billion on international climate programs.

Ober of Refugees International praised the administration for the effort to deal with the issues of climate change and migration. The group said Bidens proposed spending is notable but still less than what experts want.

The group's report said $2.5 trillion in spending is needed worldwide.

Im Steve Herman.

Steve Herman reported this story for VOA News. Mario Ritter Jr. adapted it for VOA Learning English. Hai Do was the editor.

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Words in This Story

solutions n. something that is done to deal with and end a problem

impact n. a powerful or major influence or effect

internal --adj. existing or taking place inside something such as within the borders of a country

relocation v. to move to a new place

acknowledge v. to accept or not deny that something is true, correct or exists; to admit

persecution n. the cruel or unfair treatment of a person, especially for reasons of politics, religion or race

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The number of COVID-19 cases in the United States is increasing again after months of falling numbers.

The number of new cases a day has increased by 100 percent over the past three weeks. Experts say the increase has been caused by the fast-spreading delta variant, low vaccination rates and recent holiday gatherings in the country.

Confirmed infections rose to an average of about 23,600 a day on July 12, up from 11,300 on June 23. Those numbers come from reports from Johns Hopkins University. Every state except two  Maine and South Dakota  reported that case numbers have gone up over the past two weeks.

It is certainly no coincidence that we are looking at exactly the time that we would expect cases to be occurring after the July 4th weekend, said Dr. Bill Powderly. He is the co-director of the infectious-disease division at Washington Universitys School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri. July 4th  or Independence Day -- is a major American holiday.

At the same time, parts of the country are dealing with strong anti-vaccine beliefs. And the highly contagious Delta variant of the coronavirus, which was first discovered in India, is making an ever-larger share of infections in the United States.

Nationally, 55.6 percent of all Americans have received at least one COVID-19 shot, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Even with the latest increases, case numbers in the U.S. are still much lower than they were earlier this year. They reached a high of 250,000 cases a day in January.

The number of people dying from COVID-19 each day is also much lower than six months ago. The country is now reporting fewer than 260 deaths per day on average. Over the winter, there were more than 3,400 COVID-related deaths being reported each day. The large drop shows how effectively the vaccine can prevent serious illness and death in those who become infected.

Still, health officials in places such as Los Angeles County in California and St. Louis, Missouri, are asking even vaccinated people to return to wearing face coverings in public. Officials in Chicago, Illinois, announced Tuesday that unvaccinated visitors from Missouri and Arkansas must either quarantine for 10 days or get a test showing they do not have COVID-19.

The state of Mississippi has the lowest vaccination rate in the country. The states Health Department began blocking posts about COVID-19 on its Facebook page because of a rise of misinformation about the virus and the vaccine.

Mississippi officials are also asking people 65 and older, and those with serious health problems, to stay away from large indoor gatherings. The request comes after a 150-percent rise in hospitalizations over the past three weeks.

Louisiana also has one of the nations lowest vaccination rates. Officials in the city of New Orleans said Tuesday they are likely to extend until autumn the restrictions in place to fight the virus. They say those planning to attend large indoor gatherings must be vaccinated or have proof they are not infected. State health officials said cases of the coronavirus are increasing, largely among non-vaccinated people.

In many states, however, officials are not willing to accept the possibility that restrictions may be needed again, even if case numbers are rising.

Alabama is OPEN for business. Vaccines are readily available, and I encourage folks to get one," said the states Republican Governor Kay Ivey. The state of emergency and health orders have expired. We are moving forward.

Dr. James Lawler is a leader of the Global Center for Health Security at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. He said bringing back face coverings and limiting gatherings would help. But he agreed that most of the places seeing higher rates of the virus are exactly the areas of the country that dont want to do any of those things.

He said that areas around the world where the delta variant has become the most common form of the virus have reported hospitals full of younger adults.

Thats what the critical care doctors describe and thats whats coming to the U.S., Lawler said.

He added, I think people have no clue whats about to hit us.

While the U.S. government has seen success in vaccinating older Americans, young adults have shown less urgency to get the shots.

Im Susan Shand.

The Associated Press reported this story. Susan Shand adapted it for Learning English. Ashley Thompson was the editor.

_____________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

coincidence - n. a situation in which events happen at the same time in a way that is not planned or expected

contagious - adj. able to be passed from one person or animal to another by touching

quarantine - n. separating someone who has an infectious disease

expire - v. to no longer be valid after a period of time

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PORTLAND, Ore. (AP)  More people living along the eastern edge of an Oregon wildfire were told to evacuate late Thursday as the inferno began spreading rapidly and erratically in hot afternoon winds and threatened to merge with a nearby, smaller fire that had also exploded in size.

The Bootleg Fire, the largest wildfire currently burning in the U.S., has now torched an area larger than New York City and has stymied firefighters with erratic winds and extremely dangerous fire behavior. The fire, pushed by winds from the south, has the potential to move 4 miles (6 kilometers) or more in an afternoon and there is concern it could merge with the smaller, yet still explosive Log Fire, said Rob Allen, incident commander for the blaze.

The Log Fire started on Monday as three smaller fires but exploded to nearly 5,000 acres (2,000 hectares) in 24 hours. It is also being fanned by winds from the south, Allen said.

Firefighters were all pulled back to safe areas due to intense fire behavior and were scouting ahead of the main blaze for areas where they could make a stand by carving out fire lines to stop the inferno's advance, he said.

Crews are watching the fire, nearby campgrounds "and any place out in front of us to make sure the publics out of the way, Allen said. He said evacuation orders are still being assessed.
The process for realigning Idahos political map with a decades worth of population expansion finds itself in roughly the same spot as it was 10 years ago  under pressure to get the job done without any time to spare.
A judge on Wednesday denied a request by the prosecution to charge Paul Flores, who accused of killing Cal Poly student Kristin Smart, with rape.

San Luis Obispo County Superior Court Judge Craig Van Rooyen denied the motion by the District Attorney's Office to charge Flores, 44, with two counts of drugged rape stemming from two alleged and unrelated incidents in Los Angeles County several years ago. I

Flores is charged with murdering Smart, a 19-year-old college freshman who went missing on May 25, 1996. She was declared dead in 2002 and her body has never been recovered.

Ruben Flores, 80, Paul Flores' father, is the second defendant in the case and is charged with murder accessory after the fact. He is accused of hiding Smart's body after she died.

Both men made their first in-person court appearance Wednesday since they were charged on April 14, and have pleaded not guilty.

Van Rooyen approved a request by Bob Sanger, Paul Flores' attorney, to reschedule a July 20 preliminary hearing in the case for Aug. 2.

The prosecution's request to amend Paul Flores' criminal complaint was filed on June 25, the same day the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office allowing San Luis Obispo County officials to prosecute the rape counts. The rapes are alleged to have involved two female victims in 2011 and 2017.

The request was made to support the prosecution's theory that Flores also tried to rape Smart, although the statute of limitations on that particular allegation has expired.

Before getting into arguments, however, Van Rooyen denied a motion by Sanger, Paul Flores' attorney, to close the proceedings to discuss the prosecution's request and defense opposition.

After denying the motion to close the court, Van Rooyen unsealed the records related to the prosecution's request, which contained information that Sanger described as "prejudicial" to a potential jury.

The prosecution's motion was based on a law that allows officials to connect cases with sex offenses that were committed in the commission of the same crimes or contained offenses in the same class of crimes.

Deputy District Attorney Chris Peuvrelle cited evidence discovered in the investigation, including search results of Flores' computer that contained home-made rape videos and Google searches of rape fetish pornography, which showed the defendant's "propensity" to commit such crimes.

In addition, Peuvrelle cited the discovery of tramadol and flexeril, which he described as date rape drugs.

"This case is exactly why the legislature has this law," Peuvrelle said, adding that Flores' conduct is consistent with that of a serial rapist. "Quite frankly, Paul Flores is the poster boy for why this law exists," he said.

Sanger, however, argued that there was no evidence that Smart was raped or murdered. He mentioned incidents involving reports of suspects before Smart went missing, including a report of a peeping tom that was never followed up on by police, and the idea that she could still be alive somewhere. He cited alleged information that Smart had several different aliases and that she was pregnant shortly before she disappeared.

"What I just heard is just what I was concerned about, a closing argument with a lot of innuendo and persuasive language that tie things together that [are not] tied together," Sanger said. "I'm very disappointed in the idea of making an emotional argument as opposed to sticking to the facts and the law."

Van Rooyen denied the prosecution's motion to add the drugged rape charges, stating there was a possibility it could inappropriately influence a jury. He added that Los Angeles County officials could still prosecute Flores for the alleged rapes.

The preliminary hearing, which is expected to last 12 days, was rescheduled for 9 a.m. on Aug. 2 in Dept. 5 of San Luis Obispo County Superior Court.
From left, Cadets Julia Gundlach and Olivia Orahood, study agar plates for bacteria colonies inside the Air Force Civil Engineer Center Readiness Laboratory at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla, June 29, 2021. The cadets were part of the 2021 U.S. Air Force Academy Summer Research Program May 24  July 2. The cadets worked with experienced Air Force scientists on two project topics  developing a sampling methodology for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances and finding potential solutions to naturally remove and break down the complex, synthetic chemicals in water. The second project explored using bacteria to treat runways and prevent erosion and dust.
Derek T. Muller (University of Iowa - College of Law) has posted Electoral Votes Regularly Given (55 Georgia Law Review 1529 (2021)) on SSRN. Here is the abstract:

Every four years, Congress convenes to count presidential electoral votes. In recent years, members of Congress have objected or attempted to object to the counting of electoral votes on the ground that those votes were not "regularly given." That language comes from the Electoral Count Act of 1887. But the phrase "regularly given" is a term of art, best understood as "cast pursuant to law." It refers to controversies that arise after the appointment of presidential electors, when electors cast their votes and send them to Congress. Yet members of Congress have incorrectly used the objection to challenge an assortment of pre-appointment controversies that concern the underlying election itself. This Essay identifies the proper meaning of the phrase "regularly given," articulates the narrow universe of appropriate objections within that phrase, and highlights why the failure to object with precision ignores constraints on congressional power.
FILE - In this Monday, May 24, 2021 file photo, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO), speaks at the WHO headquarters, in Geneva, Switzerland. The head of the World Health Organization said Thursday, July 15 that he is asking China to be more transparent as scientists search for the origins of the coronavirus and acknowledged it was premature to rule out that the pandemic may have been linked to a laboratory leak.
Aditya Atholi graduated from Center High School and Rice University. He has worked at the local, state and federal levels of government. He is a former Marine artillery officer who currently lives and works in Deep East Texas.
Awa Sibi finished decking out her food cart in 2019, ready to take her West African catering business Les Delices De Awa to the streets of downtown Madison early the following year. The cart was just one of the many investments shed made in her business, believing that any entrepreneur must spend money to make money.

When you start a business, thats what you do: You invest everything you make, Sibi said.

In 2020, Sibi figured, she could get a food cart license and begin selling stews, meat pies and juices to office workers and others downtown.

Frankly, it was going to be a great year because I had my work lined up, and then none of it happened, Sibi said. The pandemic took hold and the city stopped issuing new food cart permits. Today, the cart is still waiting in the parking lot outside Sibis Waunakee home.

The cart was parked the whole time. And this year again, its parked, because so much happened, Sibi said. It just was hard for me to get back on my feet.
Rob: What did you think of the line the show walks in sending up the cultural stereotypes of a bygone era (Strong says of the townspeople: "Its kind of modern  color-blind casting) but doing so with such affection?

Lindsay: I mean, its sort of how I feel about musical theater. I adore Carousel while also recognizing that, when Julie Jordan sings a song about how abuse is kind of fine because Billy loves her! and he cant help it!  thats problematic. South Pacific is both anti-racist (Youve got to be carefully taught) and pretty racist (Bloody Mary). But it gets to a point I make a lot about musicals, which is that they can be complex, and they can be about anything.

I wonder what musical references you specifically got? And did it matter?

Rob: Im sure I missed a whole bunch  like calling a local business Hammerstein & Sons was so obvious it was like they were throwing viewers like me a bone to feel smart. But I think even if you are only casually aware of old-fashioned musicals, it captures the general feel of them  the colors, the energy, etc.  that you get the reference even if your only reference point for Hello Dolly! is the clip in Wall-E.
We really need an easy place for the public to see whats going on and also enable some trust that the county is being open and transparent and has the best interest of county residents at heart, she said.

In 2019, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources named Dane County, the city of Madison and the Wisconsin Air National Guard as responsible for remediating contamination at the airport. In September 2020, the Air National Guard Readiness Center chose Truax Field to receive a remedial investigation for PFAS.

And the DNR approved interim actions to reduce the movement of PFAS compounds from the airport via Starkweather Creek, like studying samples of Starkweather Creek in order to better understand the distribution and concentration of PFAS in areas within and just downstream of the airport boundary.

Finally, Dane County is working to improve storm water pipes that may be leaking or broken. Its all a process and a project that moves very slowly, but its definitely underway, Jones said.

The resolution next heads to four more committees before the Dane County Board could take it up for final approval.

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In a statement Wednesday, Madisons downtown advocacy group joined other opponents of locating a bus rapid transit route and stops along State Street and the Capitol Square.

DMI President Jason Ilstrup said the opposition to the location stems from wanting to have public conversations about what the future of State Street could be and keeping that vision flexible.

If you place larger bus rapid transit stations on the street, it limits what you can do with that vision moving forward, Ilstrup said.

The future bus rapid transit line aims to be a high-frequency, limited-stop service that would move more people around the city faster. When its implemented in 2024, its expected to have two stops on the 100 to 300 blocks of State Street and on the Capitol Square.

Bus rapid transit is a priority of Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway and her administration. The federal government also set aside $80 million for the project, making Madison one of six BRT projects recommended for funding next year.
McDonell said its not common for elections not to have registered candidates, though it does happen more frequently in smaller towns and villages.

At least two candidates have filed to run in recent special elections for Dane County Board seats. On July 13, Timothy Rockwell won the election over Kristen Morris for the vacant District 19 position that was left by former supervisor Teran Peterson, who moved out of the district and resigned.

In 2019, two candidates each ran for three vacancies on the Board after former supervisors left to accept jobs in Gov. Tony Evers administration.

It can be a tough decision at any time to commit to running for office, but Eicher said its even more of a difficult choice considering the challenges Dane County is facing.
That role is supposed to be played in the U.S. by the FAA. But it issues commercial space transportation licenses when a launch will not jeopardize the public health and safety, property, U.S. national security or foreign policy interests, or international obligations of the United States. No consideration is given to whats being sent aloft and there is no meaningful mechanism for public input.

Why isnt NASA in charge? Taxpayers have funded NASA to the tune of $650 billion since it was founded in 1958, funds used to build its extensive infrastructure, develop spaceflight technologies and fund an incredible array of space missions. This work was implemented by its astronauts, 17 of whom died in the line of duty.

Why should a bunch of Johnny-come-lately rocket-loving rich guys be allowed to stand on NASAs taxpayer-supported shoulders and turn space into a commercial free-for-all?

And are celestial billboards really in the offing?

The rule where technology is concerned: If it can be done, it will.

Lorin Robinson is a writer and former chair of the Journalism Department, University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

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Dear Editor: We agree with writer Megan Severson ("Want to make it safer for our kids? Buy electric school buses") that the time has come to address student health by taking as many dirty diesel buses off Wisconsin roads as possible. While electric buses are one solution, there is another technology capable of reducing emissions and cost for state school districts and their surrounding communities: propane.

Propane buses are here now. There are more than 22,000 propane school buses in over 1,000 districts in the United States  including more than 1,000 in Wisconsin in over 40 districts. And they are proven clean. According to a West Virginia University study released in 2019, propane school buses reduce nitrogen oxides by at least 94%. In real-world applications of stop-and-go bus driving, the study showed diesel emissions are 34 times higher than propane.
As she stood in the jury box, she turned to Fairbanks, seated 5 feet away.

Im so sorry you felt you had to do this, Mr. Fairbanks, she said.

Ten minutes later, Condolucis son, Joe Condoluci, spoke  condemning Fairbanks for murdering my father. Joe Condoluci said his dad was a tough disciplinarian who moved his family around because he had been a federal informant in a motorcycle gang. But he said he was not an irredeemable man. Joe Condoluci said his father had helped him overcome a drug addiction. He also organized collections of nearly expired food from a grocery store  collections that he would then deliver to food pantries, Joe Condoluci said.

Joe Condoluci addressed something else  the swing set that Fairbanks had pointed to as purported evidence that the elder Condoluci was trying to lure children.

Turns out, the swing set needed repairs. So Mattieo Condoluci was working on it as a gift to his 11-year-old grandson. It wasnt bait for neighborhood children.

The facts that he had in his mind were not facts; they were just made-up thoughts in his head as to why he needed to kill my father, Joe Condoluci said. Its not fair, its not right, for someone to take the law into their own hands. He killed my father in cold blood.
Like many states, Tennessee never enacted a moratorium last year that would have halted eviction proceedings. Instead, the state is under the CDC moratorium.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Earlier this year, the Tennessee Housing Development Agency announced it received $384 million in federal funding to be used for rental assistance. The statewide program is estimated to help 25,000 to 30,000 families cover up to 12 months of rent or utility payments as long as the financial difficulties were sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program applies to 91 out of Tennessees 95 counties, with the states largest metro areas excluded because they have their own federally funded rent relief programs.

Attorneys representing tenants, however, note that some relief has been difficult to obtain due to qualification requirements or landlords refusing to participate in the rent relief process.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Eviction cases where a judge determined the tenant was not protected by the CDC declaration have been allowed to proceed in Tennessee. According to Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and The Cumberlands, many landlords who pursued evictions during the moratorium did so to assert nonrenewal of a lease.
He also states in the bulletin that the parish at St. James the Less has grown in the last 15 months, and that he is donating $12,000 from book royalties for a wheelchair lift and ramp for the church.

As of Thursday, Altman has received nearly $750,000 in support from online crowdfunding sites.

Last Sunday, the diocese tapped Monsignor Robert Hundt to oversee Mass at St. James the Less. During a sermon, he read a statement from Bishop Callahan to the parish, as heard in an audio recording.

"Instead of working for all souls, the actions and words of Father Altman have caused great division within the parish," the bishop's statement said. "I recognize the difficulty that many of you may have in understanding such a decision, but it is important for each of us as individual parishioners and as an entire diocese to come together in an effort not to cause further division and scandal."

Hundt continued in his own words with a message on rebuilding the parish.
Guglielmo said their pizzas will be personal-sized in the 11- to 12-inch range. They dont have plans for other menu items to start, but may add cheese and charcuterie plates. Alessandro is skilled at making his own charcuterie, he said.

Monachello said he never went to culinary school, but learned to cook from his mother, his aunts and his grandma. Guglielmos experience is as a consumer, Monachello said, adding that their two backgrounds provide a kind of symbiosis.

Guglielmo, who grew up in New Jersey and moved to Madison after medical school and residency in Tennessee, said hes always been a very food-motivated person.

Its what bonded the men. The first thing they did together outside of RED was go to one of chef Dan Foxs Slow Pig events, said Guglielmo, who married his wife, Betsy Guglielmo, in 2017.

Monachello is godfather to the couples 18-month-old daughter, and the friends have been to Sicily together three times, Guglielmo said.

The new restaurant will be five blocks from Cafe la Bellitalia, but Monachello calls the two completely different concepts, with Mio Fratello having an Italian heritage from the inside, and Bellitalia offering more American-Italian food.
Halderson showed up to the property on July 5, which belongs to the partner of his girlfriends mother, and asked to go swimming in the pool. Halderson was gone for more than an hour when the partner noticed him return dry and the pool cover still on.

The partner said she saw Halderson with the Subaru near a shed on the property, and when he eventually returned to the pool, Halderson appeared to be washing off, and he looked like he wasnt paying attention to anyone else around, the complaint said.

Dane County Sheriffs detectives searched the area near the shed, eventually finding a torso wrapped in pants, a black belt and nylon black rope. The search of a nearby tank revealed a pair of scissors, a saw blade and the handles of what may be bolt cutters. The remains were identified as those of Bart Halderson.

Nearly a week before the grisly discovery, a family friend and co-worker of Krista Halderson became concerned when she didnt show up for work on July 2  the day Chandler Halderson claimed his parents left for the trip  as her absence wasnt prearranged.

That afternoon, the co-worker visited the Haldersons house on Oak Springs Circle, found both vehicles in the garage and knocked on the door until Chandler Halderson opened it.
The DNA on the envelope was Kahls.

The complaint also cites evidence placing Kahl in the area at the time Zimmermann was attacked and Kahls own shifting statements about his activities that day.

Kahl admitted he was going from door to door trying to scam for money by telling people he needed money to repair a tire on his car. The money was actually used to buy crack cocaine.

Kahls attorney, Assistant State Public Defender Jon Helland, opposed the probable cause finding, telling Circuit Judge Juan Colas that there is scant evidence to support the charge in the criminal complaint.

Helland said that at best, prosecutors had testimony concerning a jailhouse snitch, who told Madison police Detective Allen Rickey in 2008 about statements Kahl made at Fox Lake concerning his involvement in Zimmermanns death.

But you take that statement out, you have almost no evidence that Mr. Kahl is responsible for the death of Brittany Zimmermann, Helland said.

Without hearing an argument from Moeser, Colas said the evidence was sufficient and ordered Kahl to stand trial.
When people comment farmers need to feed the world they apparently havent looked at the farmers bottom line or noticed that the U.S. has 3 billion bushels of corn carryover this year alone and no reason to think it will go down, he wrote. Farming these days is tough. Solar panels provide a diversity of land use and fits into our farms financial plans for the future.
According to the memo, the bill could even preclude enforcement actions unrelated to PFAS contamination, including crimes.

While a court would likely view such an interpretation as absurd or unreasonable, it is significantly less clear how a court would interpret the provision in the context of DNR enforcement actions under the environmental remediation law, it states.

Utilities call for quick re-vote on permit; opponents say courts should decide power line's fate Reissuing the permit would without former Commissioner Mike Huebsch, who stepped down last year, would remove all questions of potential bias, the utilities argue and render court challenges moot.

Rep. Katrina Shankland, D-Stevens Point, who requested the memo, said the bill is an attempt to undermine the states spills law, which is also being challenged in the courts by Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, the states largest business group.

It is deeply troubling that WMC and its allies appear to be working to gut this bedrock environmental protection in the courts and in the Legislature, while at the same time, we continue to uncover more and more PFAS contamination across Wisconsin, Shankland said. This law is the only tool the DNR has in its toolbox right now to hold polluters accountable and clean up PFAS-contaminated water and soil.
After a stormy Wednesday and overnight, a gloomy Thursday will give way to a beautiful stretch of weather for southern Wisconsin, with plenty of sunshine and warming temperatures into next week, according to forecasters.

As forecasters were warning, southern Wisconsin was hit by rounds of storms Wednesday afternoon and then Wednesday night into early Thursday, with the second round more severe.

The counties of Columbia, Dane, Green, Iowa, Lafayette, Rock and Sauk were under a tornado watch from 6:15 p.m. to midnight, and a tornado warning was issued at 9:12 p.m. for a small area east of Wisconsin Dells that lasted until 9:45 p.m.

A storm that swept through eastern Baraboo closed the Sauk County Fair carnival for the night and downed trees into power lines and a home along Second Street.

Tom Thebault, general manager of the carnival company at the Sauk County Fair, said the storm came in too fast to evacuate fairgoers and staff.

There was really no warning, not even on the apps that we use, he said. Rain yes. The winds that we had? No.
BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP)  Some performance venues across Vermont are preparing to reopen with help from federal money after the coronavirus pandemic forced them to close.

So far, 43 Vermont performance venues benefitted from the $13 million from the Shuttered Venue Operator Grant program, part of federal pandemic relief assistance.

From Brattleboro to St. Albans, from Derby Line down to Bennington, theres gonna be a real shot that your community theater, your community venue will be reopened very soon, Vermont's Democratic U.S. Rep. Peter Welch told MyNBC5.

Two Burlington locations are preparing to reopen.

The Vermont Comedy Club, which received more than $400,000, is set to reopen Labor Day weekend. The Flynn Center, which received more than $1.8 million, plans to open again in October.

The funding came through right at the perfect time for us to be able to hire our contractors and start booking talent, said Natalie Miller, co-owner of Vermont Comedy Club.

Miller said the club is getting ready for the reopening.
Every child is born with great potential, and its inspiration that unlocks that potential," he said. "My love affair with science, invention and space did that for me, and I hope this gift does that for others.

The Air and Space Museum on the National Mall has been undergoing major renovations since 2018. It remains closed and is scheduled to reopen on July 30.

At this moment, the first human to set foot on Mars might be in elementary school, said Ellen Stofan, the Smithsonians under secretary for science and research and former director of the National Air and Space Museum. As the largest and most visited aerospace museum in the world, the museum wants to spark that passion and enrich the imagination and ingenuity of every student who visits the Smithsonian.

Bezos stepped down as Amazon CEO this month. In a blog post to employees earlier this year, Bezos said he planned to devote more time to side projects, including Blue Origin, his philanthropic initiatives and overseeing The Washington Post, which he owns.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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DETROIT (AP)  General Motors is telling owners of some older Chevrolet Bolts to park them outdoors and not to charge them overnight because two of the electric cars caught fire after recall repairs were made.

The company said Wednesday that the request covers 2017 through 2019 Bolts that were part of a group that was recalled earlier due to fires in the batteries.

The latest request comes after two Bolts that had gotten recall repairs caught fire, one in Vermont and the other in New Jersey, GM spokesman Kevin Kelly said.

Owners should take the steps out of an abundance of caution, he said. The steps should be continued until GM engineers investigate and develop a repair, he said.

The cars should be parked outdoors after charging is complete, GM said in a statement. We are moving as quickly as we can to investigate this issue, the company said.

Vermont State Rep. Tim Briglin, whose 2019 Bolt caught fire, said he drove it to work and back home in Thetford, Vermont, on June 30, depleting the battery to around 10% of its range. He plugged it into a 240-volt outdoor charger around 8 p.m. and left the Bolt in his driveway after the car messaged that it would be fully recharged by 4 a.m.
Grabowski's analysis of Medicare data indicates that nationwide, about 78% of residents and 56% of staff completed their vaccinations as of the week ending June 20.

Statistics posted by Medicare reveal big disparities between states. In Alaska, 91% of residents are vaccinated, but in Florida it's 69%. In Hawaii, 82% of staffers are vaccinated, but in New York it's 62% and in Louisiana, 42%. Staff vaccination rates are important because infected staffers can unwittingly bring the virus into a nursing home before they develop symptoms.

Within states, there can be big differences among counties, and even among nursing homes in the same community, said Terry Fulmer, president of the John A. Hartford Foundation, which works to improve care for older adults.

We now have a Delta variant and we could have a surge," said Fulmer. My concern is that residents will die and that staff will die, and it could have been prevented.

Medicare's parent agency, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, acknowledged in a statement that it has work to do. We are focused on making this data more consumer-friendly and easy to navigate," the agency said.
Upon identification of the release, all drilling activities at the location were suspended and containment and cleanup activities were started, Rude-Young said. She said the investigation was continuing.

Even if the drilling mud was primarily clay, Matteson said, the silt can still harm sensitive aquatic organisms. And she said the spill made opponents even more worried about what could happen if the pipeline were to leak near that spot, since the heavy oil the pipeline will carry could sink and go undetected for some time.

Rita Chamblin, an activist from the Bemidji area, said she got few answers last week when she tried contacting the MPCA to see how officials there were going to respond.

Would we have ever known about it had we not had people there?" Chamblin asked.

Melissa Lorentz, an attorney with the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy, said Enbridge's permits specifically prohibit the discharge of drilling mud into waters along the route.

Enbridge spokeswoman Juli Kellner said the cleanup is complete. She said the company reported the spill immediately.

There were no impacts to any aquifers nor were there downstream impacts because environmental control measures were installed at this location, Kellner said.

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Idahos leaders, however, have chosen to do nothing but the lazy work. Any elected leader with the ability to press a button can vote to give away your tax dollars or aimlessly cut regulations. Literally. Our lawmakers actually press one of two buttons when voting on a law. The Right-Wing Party has gotten so used to doing the lazy work, its convinced itself we dont need quality schools. Its convinced itself that Idahos workforce can succeed without basic skills or infrastructure. Its convinced itself that Capitalism is alive and well in the Gem State even though it does everything it can to snuff out Capitalism. Lets not forget, they couldnt even get Medicaid Expansion done  you did that. The only time the Anti-Capitalists actually worked in the last couple of years was when they tried to take your healthcare away.
We were about a mile and a half down in the bowels of the earth when the tour guide said she was going to turn off all the lights in the cave to show us what a cave looks like naturally. As my eyes adjusted to the darkness around me, I realized I had never been in that kind of darkness.

Carefully I raised my hand just inches in front of my face and saw absolutely nothing. Total and complete darkness enveloped me like a shroud. I could feel the weight of it.

That was on my last trip to Mammoth Cave in Kentucky, about six or so years ago, as my family and I were on vacation that summer.

Darkness frightens us, and rightly so. It is the fear of what is lurking in that blackness that troubles us.

As I was standing in the cave, I was certain we would be attacked by a bunch of bats at any moment. But the lights were not off that long, and the ranger soon threw the switch back on. I could hear audible sighs of relief.

The Bible tells us that you and I live in a very dark world. It is darkened by the effects of sin, disease and death. We know these realities all too well, and we try to fend them off as long as we can.
Officers who have worked the case still have many questions about how the Parkers made it from Hickory to Phoenix, a distance of 2,000 miles.

Alfano said the Parkers likely lived out of their car for several months, and it probably took them three months to reach Arizona.

They essentially would stop at rest stops and beg, plead for money, hold up signs for money, Alfano said. Then eventually they were able to save up enough money to start renting, have the residence they were staying at when they finally reached Arizona.

He added, Weve got to talk to a lot more people. Its still developing.

Did the Parkers have any help and will anybody else be charged?

Alfano said the Marshals Service and the Hickory Police Department are currently investigating whether anyone helped the Parkers in their run from the law. No charges had been announced as of noon Wednesday.

On Tuesday afternoon, Hickory police Chief Thurman Whisnant said, I can assure you, between the Marshals Service and us, we will both be doing our due diligence to see what we can learn about that, and Im sure well have more on that in the days to come.
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

For those looking to halt the spread of COVID-19 at a community level, the first rule may be this:

"You can't just talk about COVID," said Elisa Sobo, chair and professor of anthropology at San Diego State University.

Sobo and Noe Crespo of the School of Public Health were co-principal investigators on the SDSU team that contributed to a national coalition's report, "Carrying Equity in COVID-19 Vaccination Forward: Guidance Informed by Communities of Color." Released today, it outlines strategies to ensure a more equitable, community-based rollout of life-saving vaccines.

In San Diego County's most heavily Hispanic and Latino communities, the SDSU team found there are any number of interconnected issues beyond one's trust in the vaccines that can play into one's willingness and ability to get the vaccine. They range from worries over having enough to eat to anxiety over who'll look after the kids if their caregiver is knocked out for a day by vaccine side effects.

For this population, Sobo said, COVID-19 is "one little tiny thing  the tip of the iceberg" in a life that is tough already.

It's not always facts people need to be convinced to get a vaccine, the national coalition found after comparing results from six different regions. Mostly it's access, which the coalition said can be there on paper but unattainable in reality due to the array of daily barriers and previous bad experiences with the health care system.

The SDSU team included researchers from the College of Arts and Letters and focused on South San Diego County. It is one of six university-based groups across the country participating in the national CommuniVax Coalition, led by Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security and Texas State University.

The project was designed in part to find ways to reduce the disproportionate, devastating impact of the pandemic on historically underserved Black and Latinx communities.

"There is no one size fits all solution," the coalition said today in releasing its report. "We must empower and equip local communities to have a guiding hand in their own public health interventions."

Project manager Griselda Cervantes said the researchers conducted interviews and focus groups, sent mass emails and connected with community leaders to find their perceptions "of what is needed in their community in order to recover from this pandemic" and to promote overall wellness for the future.

While mass vaccination sites such as the one at Downtown San Diego's Petco Park provided a solution for many, Cervantes said the team found many useful much smaller community level efforts that "started out just wanting to help neighbors, then grew because they realized that there was a need."

The SDSU team's fieldwork is still underway, she said, working to identify additional unvaccinated individuals.

Crespo, associate professor of health promotion and behavioral science and co-lead of the SDSU project team, said San Diego's border location presented issues rarely seen in other research sites for the study, which included agricultural regions of Idaho and in Maryland, the mostly Black Prince George's County.

For those in families that regularly cross the border (both northbound and southbound), COVID-19 is a "binational experience where availability and eligibility look differently," he noted. For example, there are currently more vaccine varieties available in Mexico, and the eligibility criteria are different.

And for some, Crespo said: "The main issue is trying to avoid any contact with formal institutions so that it doesn't come back to negatively impact you later." Some immigrants worry that taking a vaccine could make them a 'public charge or public burden," potentially making them ineligible for permanent admission after receiving a certain level of public benefits.

The legal rule doesn't apply to health care and COVID-19 vaccination, Sobo noted. But some don't want to take a chance, thinking "I have to stay under the radar to keep my docket clean."

"People in the south region mostly want vaccination but there are other kinds of barriers," Sobo added. "You're supposed to be able to get time off work. But that's hard to do if you need the money or you know that if you do go your boss is going to give you the stink eye, and you're going to get stigmatized, and then you're going to get the worst assignment.

"We might call them little things but they mount up to big, big barriers," Sobo said.

In addition to Sobo, Crespo and Cervantes, the SDSU CommuniVax team included Corinne McDaniels-Davidson, director of the Institute for Public Health at SDSU; Susan Kiene, professor of global health; and two graduate student research assistants, Diego Ceballos in the School of Public Health and Latin American Studies, and Sarah Song in the Department of Child and Family Development.

The SDSU team found promotoras (community health workers), who are trained to provide basic health education in Latinx communities, play an essential role in helping community members overcome barriers to vaccination and other health care access.

Cervantes said community-based organizations don't always know of all the funding sources they can tap into to support their needs, and the SDSU team is working with these groups' leaders to provide funding guidance

That's part of a possible long-term spinoff from the project. While the CommuniVax coalition that included SDSU was formed late last year amid the height of COVID-19's devastating impact across the world, it has a purpose beyond academic publications, Sobo said.

"The larger holistic project is aiming to really make some durable change that sticks in the health infrastructure," she said, "so that we don't get into this kind of a problem to begin with next time that there's a rampant virus making its way around."

More information: Carrying Equity in COVID-19 Vaccination Forward: Guidance Informed by Communities of Color. Carrying Equity in COVID-19 Vaccination Forward: Guidance Informed by Communities of Color. www.centerforhealthsecurity.or  ational-report-2.pdf
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Coronavirus-linked deaths in Africa surged by 43 percent in the space of a week, driven by a lack of intensive-care beds and oxygen, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Thursday.

Fatalities associated with COVID in the WHO's Africa region, which includes North Africa, rose to 6,273 in the week of July 5-11, compared with 4,384 in the previous week.

The agency's regional director, Matshidiso Moeti, told a virtual press conference that the rise was "a clear warning sign that hospitals in the most affected countries are reaching breaking point".

It was crucial for countries to beef up oxygen production to help patients suffering from the disease's worst symptoms, she said, speaking from the Congo capital of Brazzaville.

The WHO said the rise in deaths paralleled a chronic shortage of vaccines, a spread in the more contagious Delta variant, which was now being detected in 21 African countries, along with public fatigue over prevention measures.

Africa has officially recorded over six million cases of COVID-19, a figure that is far lower than on other continents but one that experts say is likely to be a big underestimate.

Funding appeal

Separately, after talks with the World Bank on Thursday, African leaders appealed for "at least $100 billion" in commitments of financial support by year's end to help their countries "recover better" from the pandemic.

"There's still a lot to be done to overcome this crisis," said Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara, who opened the meeting in Abidjan.

"Less than three percent of Africa's total population has received a first dose of vaccine, compared to around 54 percent in the United States and European Union."

Moussa Faki Mahamat, chairman of the Africa Union Commission, called for help to restructure the debt of struggling African countries, which faced "pressing needs for immediate liquidity to buy vaccines and set down the foundations of economic recovery".

He said the pandemic had caused joblessness in Africa to rise by between 25 and 30 million people, while 40 million had fallen back into extreme poverty.

The meeting was called to discuss World Bank aid for African countries over the next three years.

The aid is administered via the bank's International Development Association (IDA), which renews the programme every three years.

The talks have been brought forward by a year to help poor countries cope with the impact of the pandemic.

Over the last three years, the IDA has allotted $22 billion (19 billion euros) annually on average. Of the 76 beneficiary countries, 39 are in Africa.

In May, the international community promised at a meeting in Paris to help Africa fight the pandemic, but did not give a figure in monetary terms.

Explore further Covid spreading in Africa at record pace, says WHO

 2021 AFP
Credit: University of Texas at Arlington

An international team led by physics researchers at The University of Texas at Arlington has published a paper in Bioactive Materials that describes a breakthrough method of photodynamic therapy (PDT), an emerging cancer treatment.

Nil Kanatha Pandey, a doctoral student in physics Professor Wei Chen's lab, is the first author of "Aggregation-induced emission luminogens for highly effective microwave dynamic therapy." The study was led by Chen in collaboration with Lingyun Wang, a professor of chemistry and chemical engineering at South China University of Technology.

PDT combines photosensitive molecules, or photosensitizers, with light at the site of a tumor to produce a powerful oxygen species that destroys cancer cells. Researchers view PDT as a promising cancer treatment due to its minimal invasiveness and side effects, but the procedure is not without obstacles.

"In human tissue, the depth that light particles can reach is limited," Chen said. "For cancers located deep within an organ or muscle, PDT is less effective because we can't deliver light to the site of the tumor."

Conventional photosensitive molecules used in PDT are also dependent on oxygen, which is often absent near the site of tumors. But an alternate method of tumor destruction known as thermal ablation offers a pathway to overcome the challenges of traditional PDT.

Thermal ablation is considered one of the most effective treatments in combined cancer therapy because it leads to improved tumor sensitivity to PDT, chemotherapy, immunotherapy or radiotherapy. During thermal ablation, the tissues are heated with microwave technology, causing the blood vessels to dilate, which increases blood flow. This heat also boosts the oxygen contained within the blood itself, thereby enhancing the efficacy of the treatment.

In its study, the team employed microwave technology to activate a special type of photosensitive molecule known as aggregation-induced emission luminophores (AIEgens). AIEgens are a new material that offer enhanced oxygen production over traditional photosensitizers. Chen and his researchers discovered that heating the cancer-affected area with microwave irradiation to activate AIEgens allowed for deep tissue penetration and generated a reactive oxygen species that killed the cancer cells.

The team asserts that the proposed method of microwave-induced PDT can be used either on its own or in combination with other cancer treatment methods such as surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy or radiotherapy.

"The microwave-induced PDT is a new phenomenon that has many advantages over traditional photodynamic therapy, such as maneuverability, faster ablation time and negligible side effects," Chen said. "Most notably, it allows for deeper penetration of tissue."

Chen's team believes that its findings not only solve the issues of traditional PDT, but also help to improve conventional microwave ablation therapy by reducing the microwave dose needed to achieve the same outcomes, thereby decreasing the occurrence of side effects of microwave irradiation.

Chen said the combination of AIEgens and microwave technology could lead to the discovery of more effective methods of cancer treatment for hard-to-reach tumors.

"This finding will benefit investigations into photodynamic therapy by researchers around the world and open a door to new applications of AIEgens," Chen said. "Our primary goal is to make PDT as effective and accessible for cancer patients as possible."

More information: Nil Kanatha Pandey et al, Aggregation-induced emission luminogens for highly effective microwave dynamic therapy, Bioactive Materials (2021). Nil Kanatha Pandey et al, Aggregation-induced emission luminogens for highly effective microwave dynamic therapy,(2021). DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2021.05.031
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Millions of Chinese people face bans from public spaces including schools, hospitals and shopping malls unless they get a COVID-19 vaccine, under new edicts covering nearly two dozen cities and counties.

The coronavirus first emerged in the central Chinese city of Wuhan in late 2019, but since then the country has largely brought it under controland Beijing is determined to keep it that way.

The tough new rules, which follow the emergence of the highly contagious Delta variant across Asia, will be imposed on numerous second-tier cities in a possible marker of what is to come for the whole country.

China has a national target of inoculating 64 percent of its 1.4 billion population by end of the year, and new measures suggest high levels of coercion.

In Chuxiong city in the southern province of Yunnanhome to about 510,000 peopleall residents above the age of 18 need to get at least one dose of the vaccine by July 23, according to a government notice posted late Wednesday.

Those who fail to meet the deadline "will not be allowed to enter public facilities including hospitals, nursing homes, kindergartens and schools, libraries, museums, and prisons or take public transport", the notice said.

A month later, two shots will be required to enter public buildings.

Similar notices were issued by authorities in at least a dozen cities and counties across the country, including six in eastern Jiangxi province, one in Sichuan, one in Gaungxi and three in Fujian province.

Many say they want to inoculate 70 to 80 percent of the local population by Septemberexceeding the national target.

Tianhe county in central Henan province threatened to stop paying wages to and dismiss any state employee not inoculated by July 20, according to an official notice issued Monday.

At least a dozen places have stationed volunteers at government buildings, train stations and other busy public spaces to note down the names and contact information of those who are not vaccinated.

It is unclear whether this information is then shared with the local pandemic prevention task force.

The move has led to an online backlash.

"At first you (the government) said vaccination was voluntary, now you are forcing us!" wrote one angry user of China's Twitter-like Weibo.

"I just got my second dose, but this new policy sounds like a royal decree: disappointed and disgusting!" complained another.

China's success in squashing the coronavirus outbreakplus vaccine safety concernsled to a low uptake when the country's vaccination campaign was launched last year, and officials have been using a series of incentives to ramp up inoculation numbers.

As of Tuesday, China had administered more than 1.4 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines, the National Health Commission said, without specifying the number of people vaccinated.

Explore further China vaccine doses pass one billion mark

 2021 AFP
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In recent years, meteoric progress has been made in the world of deep learning, but at the present time, there are virtually no medical products on the shelf that use this technology. Consequently, doctors continue to employ the same tools used in previous decades.

To find a solution to this problem, the research group of Professor Yael Yaniv of the Faculty of Biomedical Engineering joined forces with the research groups of Professors Alex Bronstein and Assaf Schuster of the Taub Faculty of Computer Science. Now, under their joint supervision, research by doctoral students Yonatan Elul and Aviv Rosenberg has been published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. In the article, the authors demonstrate an AI-based system that automatically detects disease on the basis of hundreds of electrocardiograms, which are currently the most widespread technology employed for the diagnosis of cardiac pathology.

The new system automatically analyzes the electrocardiograms (ECGs) using augmented neural networksthe most prominent tool in deep learning today. These networks learn different patterns by training on a large number of samples, and the system developed by the researchers was trained on more than 1.5 million ECG segments sampled from hundreds of patients in hospitals in different countries.

The electrocardiogram, developed more than a century ago, provides important information on conditions affecting the heart, and does so quickly and non-invasively. The problem is that the printouts are presently interpreted by a human cardiologist, and thus, their interpretation is, by necessity, pervaded by subjective elements. As a result, numerous research groups worldwide are working on the development of systems that will automatically interpret the printouts efficiently and accurately. Moreover, these systems are able to identify pathological conditions that human cardiologists, regardless of their experience, will not be able to detect.

The system developed by the Technion researchers was built according to requirements defined by cardiologists, and its output includes an uncertainty estimation of the results, indication of suspicious areas on the ECG wave, and alerts regarding inconclusive results and increased risk of pathology not observed in the ECG signal itself. The system demonstrates sufficient sensitivity in providing alerts regarding patients at risk of arrhythmia even when the arrhythmia is not demonstrated in the ECG printout, and the rate of false alarms is negligible. Moreover, the new system explains its decisions using the accepted cardiology terminology.

The researchers hope this system can be used for cross-population scanning for the early detection of those who are at risk of arrhythmia. Without this early diagnosis, these people have an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

Explore further New artificial intelligence tool could speed up diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases

More information: Yonatan Elul et al, Meeting the unmet needs of clinicians from AI systems showcased for cardiology with deep-learningbased ECG analysis, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2021). Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Yonatan Elul et al, Meeting the unmet needs of clinicians from AI systems showcased for cardiology with deep-learningbased ECG analysis,(2021). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2020620118
Will COVID-19 vaccines work if I have a weak immune system? Credit: AP Illustration/Peter Hamlin

Will COVID-19 vaccines work if I have a weak immune system?

Probably not as well as they do in healthy people, but the shots should offer some protection.

It's why vaccinations are still recommended for people with immune systems weakened by disease or certain medications. It's also important that your family, friends and caregivers get vaccinated, which will make it far less likely that they pass on the virus.

About 3% of U.S. adults have weakened immune systems. Among them are people with HIV or AIDS, transplant recipients, some cancer patients and people with autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and lupus.

COVID-19 shots weren't studied in large numbers of people with weak immune systems. But limited data and experience with flu and pneumonia vaccines suggest they won't work as well as they do in others. That means people with weakened immune systems should keep taking precautions like wearing masks and avoiding large crowds.

"It's prudent to use all the precautions you were using before you were vaccinated," said Dr. Ajit Limaye, a transplant expert at University of Washington Medicine in Seattle.

Although most cancer patients should get vaccinated as soon as they can, people getting stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy should wait at least three months after treatment to get vaccinated, according to guidance from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. That delay will make sure the vaccines work as well as they can.

For transplant recipients, researchers are looking at whether an extra dose might make the vaccines more effective.

French guidelines recommend a third COVID-19 dose for the immunocompromised, including organ recipients. Israel recently began giving an extra dose of the Pfizer vaccine to transplant patients and others with weak immune systems. Some U.S. transplant recipients seek out a third dose on their own in hopes of more protection even though the federal government hasn't authorized extra vaccinations.

Explore further Extra COVID vaccine may help protect transplant patients

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
A new Brown School study sheds light on the impact of geographic location on cancer diagnosis and survival. Credit: Shutterstock

Adolescents and young adults living in rural versus metropolitan U.S. counties and those living farther from the hospital where they were diagnosed are more likely to be detected at a later cancer stage, when it is generally less treatable and have lower survival rates compared with those living in metropolitan counties and closer to the reporting hospital, finds a new study from the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis.

"A number of studies have indicated that place of residence can influence cancer survival; however, few studies have specifically focused on geographic factors and outcomes in adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer," said Kimberly Johnson, associate professor and lead author of the paper "Associations between geographic residence and US adolescent and young adult cancer stage and survival," published in the journal Cancer.

Johnson and her co-authors examined National Cancer Database data on nearly 180,000 AYAs aged 15 to 39 years who were diagnosed with cancer from 2010-14. They determined residence in metro, urban or rural counties at the time of diagnosis using Rural-Urban Continuum Codes. Distance between the patient's residence and the reporting hospital was classified as short (less than 12.5 miles), intermediate (between 12.5 and 50 miles) or long (more than 50 miles).

Odds of a late-stage diagnosis were found to be 1.16 times greater for AYAs living in rural counties and 1.2 times greater for AYAs living at long versus short distances from the reporting hospital. The rate of death was 1.17 times greater for those living in rural versus metro counties and 1.30 times greater for long versus short distances to the reporting hospital.

"Hopefully, this research will draw attention to geographic disparities in AYA cancer survival," Johnson said. "It will be important to conduct further research to understand the mechanisms for these findings and to develop interventions to address these disparities."

Explore further Urban and rural rates of childhood cancer survival the same, study finds

More information: Kimberly J. Johnson et al, Associations between geographic residence and US adolescent and young adult cancer stage and survival, Cancer (2021). Journal information: Cancer Kimberly J. Johnson et al, Associations between geographic residence and US adolescent and young adult cancer stage and survival,(2021). DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33667
In this Tuesday, July 6, 2021 file photo, a health worker prepares a Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at a vaccination center, in Lahore, Pakistan. A top official at the European Medicines Agency said on Thursday, July 15 a decision on whether to recommend that Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine be authorized for children is expected late next week, in what could be the first such license for the shot's use in children globally. Credit: AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary, file

A top official at the European Medicines Agency said a decision on whether to recommend that Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine be authorized for children is expected late next week. If approved, it would be the first such license for the shot's use in children globally.

At a press briefing on Thursday, Dr. Marco Cavaleri, the EU drug regulator's head of vaccines strategy, said its expert committee was currently evaluating Moderna's application to extend the use of its coronavirus vaccine for children 12 to 17 years old.

"We expect that the committee will reach a conclusion by the end of next week," he said.

Moderna's vaccine was given the green light for use in anyone 18 and over across the 27-nation European Union in January. It has also been licensed in countries including Britain, Canada and the U.S., but so far its use has not been extended to children. To date, the vaccine made by Pfizer-BioNTech is the only one approved for children under 18 in Europe and North America.

The EMA said last week there was a " possible link " between the vaccines made by Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech to very rare cases of chest and heart inflammation, mostly in younger adult men. They said the effects were mostly temporary and that the benefits of vaccination still far outweighed the risks of COVID-19.

Last week, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the EU has now delivered enough vaccines to immunize 70% of its adult population and many countries are looking to inoculate children, despite the significantly lower risk they face from COVID-19.

Although Britain's regulatory agency has authorized the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children, its vaccine advisory group has yet to recommend that teens be immunized. Moderna has also filed for its vaccine to be licensed for younger teens and children in the U.S.

Many public health officials say rich countries should donate their vaccines once their adult populations are covered, pointing out that millions of people in developing countries at high risk of the disease, including health workers and the elderly, have yet to receive a single shot.

In June, WHO's vaccines director Dr. Kate O'Brien said that vaccinating children against COVID-19 is "not a high priority" given the extremely limited vaccine supplies globally. While more than 3 billion doses of COVID-19 shots have been administered, fewer than 2% have been in poor countries, where the easier-to-spread delta variant is now fueling explosive surges.

Explore further European regulator recommends Pfizer shot for children 12-15

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

The latest investigations into a promising new genetic test for glaucomathe leading cause of blindness worldwidehas found it has the ability to identify 15 times more people at high risk of glaucoma than an existing genetic test.

The study, just published in JAMA Ophthalmology, builds on a long-running international collaboration between Flinders University and the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute and other research partners around the world to identify genetic risk factors for glaucoma. "Early diagnosis of glaucoma can lead to vision-saving treatment, and genetic information can potentially give us an edge in making early diagnoses, and better treatment decisions," says lead researcher Associate Professor Owen Siggs, from Flinders University in South Australia and the Garvan Institute of Medical Research in Sydney, NSW.

Senior author, Flinders University Professor Jamie Craig, says the latest research highlights the potential of the test in glaucoma screening and management.

"Genetic testing is not currently a routine part of glaucoma diagnosis and care, but this test has the potential to change that. We're now in a strong position to start testing this in clinical trials," says Professor Craig, a consulting ophthalmologist who also runs a in world-leading glaucoma research program at Flinders University, funded by Australia's NHMRC.

The latest results benchmarked the performance of genetic testing on 2507 Australian individuals with glaucoma, and 411,337 individuals with or without glaucoma in the UK.

One in 30 Australians will ultimately develop glaucoma, many of whom are diagnosed late due to lack of symptoms.

Once diagnosed, several treatment options can slow or halt the progression of glaucoma vision loss.

The new test, performed on a blood or saliva sample, has the potential to identify high-risk individuals before irreversible vision loss occurs.

Members of the research team are also launching a spin-out company to develop an accredited test for use in clinical trials, with recruitment expected to begin in 2022.

Explore further Scientists develop test that will help prevent glaucoma-related blindness

More information: Association of monogenic and polygenic risk with the prevalence of open-angle glaucoma, JAMA Ophthalmology (2021). Journal information: JAMA Ophthalmology Association of monogenic and polygenic risk with the prevalence of open-angle glaucoma,(2021).
Neighbors stand on a roof in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Monday, July 12, 2021. Credit: AP Photo/Matias Delacroix

Haiti on Wednesday received its first coronavirus vaccine since the pandemic began, welcoming 500,000 doses as the country battles a spike in cases and deaths.

The Pan American Health Organization said the United States donated the doses via the United Nations' COVAX program for low-income countries.

Spokeswoman Nadia Peimbert-Rappaport told The Associated Press that the shipment was Moderna vaccine.

"The arrival of these vaccines is quite promising and now the challenge is to get them to the people that need them the most," the regional health agency's director, Dr. Carissa Etienne, said in a statement.

The doses will be administered for free, said Dr. Marie Greta Roy Clement, Haiti's minister of public health and population.

"This first allocation of vaccines puts an end to a long period of waiting, an end to a long period of waiting not only for the Haitian population but also for the people of the region who were very concerned that Haiti was the only country in the Americas that had not yet introduced the COVID 19 vaccine," she said in a statement.

Haiti has reported more than 19,300 confirmed coronavirus cases and more than 480 deaths as it fights a wave of COVID-19 cases that has forced hospitals to turn away patients. Experts believe those numbers are widely underreported since there is scant testing in Haiti, which has more than 11 million people.

Homes at the Bois Patate neighborhood are crowded together in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Monday, July 12, 2021. Credit: AP Photo/Matias Delacroix

Some 756,000 doses of AstraZeneca shots had been slated to arrive in May via the COVAX program but were delayed given the government's concern over possible clotting as a side effect and a lack of infrastructure to keep the vaccines properly refrigerated.

The Pan American Health Organization has said it would help Haiti's Health Ministry solve those problems and would prioritize vaccinating health workers.

It was not immediately known when inoculations would begin and where.

Experts have previously warned of potential problems that could complicate vaccination efforts, including a surge in gang violence that has people afraid to leave their homes or travel to certain areas because they fear for their lives.

Haiti also is now reeling from the July 7 assassination of President Jovenel Moise.

Moise had declared a health emergency on May 24 and imposed a curfew and safety measures, including mandating the use of face masks when entering businesses. But few Haitians are following the measures while buying groceries in bustling marketplaces or riding in crowded colorful buses known as tap taps.

Children look into the camera inside a school turned shelter, created about a month ago for families displaced by gang violence in Petion Ville in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Tuesday, July 13, 2021. President Jovenel Moise was assassinated on July 7. Credit: AP Photo/Matias Delacroix

A youth waits to for his turn to fill containers with water from a neighbor who sells it for the equivalent of twenty cents of a dollar per bucket at the Bourdon quarter of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Monday, July 12, 2021. Haiti has one of the lowest rates of access to clean water and sanitation infrastructure in the western hemisphere. Credit: AP Photo/Matias Delacroix

A youth looks into the camera inside a school turned shelter created about a month ago for families displaced by gang violence in Petion Ville in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Tuesday, July 13, 2021. President Jovenel Moise was assassinated on July 7. Credit: AP Photo/Matias Delacroix

A view of the private residence of President Jovenel Moise in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Tuesday, July 13, 2021. Moise was killed and his wife wounded during an attack on his home on July 7. Credit: AP Photo/Matias Delacroix

A boy carries a tank of gas as he leaves a gas station in Port-au-Prince, Tuesday, July 13, 2021, almost a week after President Jovenel Moise was assassinated in his home. Credit: AP Photo/Fernando Llano

Last month, the nonprofit St. Luke Foundation for Haiti said the country's insecurity was interfering with oxygen being imported as a liquid, then being converted to gas and delivered.

"It is hard and dangerous work to refill 320 tanks per day, in the red zones of Port au Prince," it said.

Explore further Haiti awaits first vaccines amid delays, renewed promises

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

A new study led by the University of Oulu in Finland refutes the belief that high hemoglobin levels are always desirable for health. A study based on two large human cohorts as well as experimental work supported that lower hemoglobin levels may protect against both obesity and metabolic syndrome. The phenomenon may be related to the body's response to low-oxygen conditions and is used, for example, by endurance athletes in high-altitude training.

Hemoglobin is a protein in the blood that is responsible for transporting oxygen to the tissues of the body. Hemoglobin levels vary from one individual to another, with normal levels in Finnish population ranging from 117 to 155 grams per liter in females and 134 to 167 grams per liter in males.

A recent study published in the high-profile scholarly journal Science Advances showed that individual differences in hemoglobin levels are strongly associated with metabolic health in adulthood. The hemoglobin levels were associated with body mass index, glucose metabolism, blood lipids and blood pressure, with subjects having lower hemoglobin levels being healthier in terms of metabolic measures. The study examined hemoglobin values within the normal range.

"We found a clear association between hemoglobin levels and key cardiovascular traits, and the associations became more pronounced as the subjects aged," say the principal investigators, Professor Juha Auvinen, doctoral student Joona Tapio and postdoctoral researcher Ville Karhunen.

The effect of lower hemoglobin observed in the study is related to a mild oxygen deficiency in the body and the corresponding response (so-called HIF response) which is activated as a result. The research team of Professor Peppi Karppinen is internationally known for its studies on this phenomenon. The finding reinforces the understanding of the central role that the HIF response has in regulating the body's energy metabolism.

"Hemoglobin levels are a good measure of the body's ability to carry oxygen. A mild lack of oxygen activates the HIF response, which makes the body's energy metabolism less economical and thus may protect against obesity and unfavorable metabolism," explains Karppinen, who led the study.

Working at the Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine and Biocenter Oulu, Karppinen's team has already shown in previous research that activation of the hypoxia response protects mice from obesity, metabolic syndrome, fatty liver and atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). The study now published is the first in which the link between oxygen deficiency and wide range of metabolic health markers is demonstrated in humans as well.

"Although this study uses multiple methods to establish links between lower body oxygen levels and metabolic health, it is very challenging to establish causality for the observed associations in human data. However, combining evidence from different components of the study, the results support that hypoxia response may also play an important role in peoples' metabolic health," explains further Professor Marjo-Riitta Jarvelin, co-leader of the study from Imperial College London, UK and University of Oulu, Finland.

"We also already know that in people living high above sea level, low oxygen levels in the habitat cause long-term activation of the HIF response. These people are slimmer, and they have better sugar tolerance and a lower risk of cardiovascular death," says Karppinen.

A key question in the future is therefore: how to reduce the body's oxidation levels if needed, so as to achieve a permanent low-level activation of the HIF response and thus protection against obesity? According to Karppinen, the HIF enzymes that cause a hypoxic response could potentially be used as targets of obesity and metabolism drugs in humans. Currently they are being used in Asia to treat renal anemia.

The study was based on a large cohort of people born in Northern Finland in 1966. In the study, the health and well-being of more than 12,000 people has been regularly monitored since birth. The results were also replicated in The Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study cohort material, five multicentre study in Finland, which covers in the present study a total of more than 1,800 individuals. This work was conducted especially in collaboration between researchers from Universities of Turku and Tampere in Finland and from Imperial College London, UK.

Obesity and metabolic syndrome are major health problems worldwide, connected with numerous comorbidities and premature mortality. Half of Finnish adults are overweight and a quarter have metabolic syndrome. Childhood obesity is also increasing, and the same phenomenon can be seen globally. New ways of preventing and treating obesity are urgently needed.

More information: Juha Auvinen et al, Systematic evaluation of the association between hemoglobin levels and metabolic profile implicates beneficial effects of hypoxia, Science Advances (2021). Journal information: Science Advances Juha Auvinen et al, Systematic evaluation of the association between hemoglobin levels and metabolic profile implicates beneficial effects of hypoxia,(2021). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abi4822

Provided by University of Oulu
COVID-19 cases and deaths in the United States and the United Kingdom have dropped after more than half of the population were vaccinated. Credit: Ourworldindata | Teguh H. Sasongko | The Conversation

With the exception of Singapore, Southeast Asian countries have recorded unprecedented spikes in daily case numbers and deaths during the last several weeks.

In April 2021, Thailand recorded an eight-fold increase in 7-day average daily new cases. The trend in the last few weeks have been worse. Malaysia's seven-day average daily new cases per million population more than doubled between May 1 (94.2 per million population) and July 11 (254.43 per million).

With a population nearly ten times that of Malaysia, Indonesia has recorded an almost seven-fold increase for the same parameter from May 1 (18.85 new cases per million) to July 11 (126.98 new cases per million).

Indonesia' daily case numbers for the last few days is breaking records, without a significant increase in test numbers. On July 14 2021, Indonesia broke another record of 54,517 new COVID-19 cases.

Indonesia is now considered Asia's new COVID-19 epicenter, overtaking India. What has prevented Indonesia from showing a similar spike with India during its worst days in terms of incidence rate per million population was simply the country's low test coverage.

The increase in case numbers has been followed by spikes in deaths as well.

Why cases are increasing

Two things contribute to increased COVID-19 cases in several countries in Southeast Asia: human mobility and activities and the spreading of new coronavirus variants.

The drastic rise of COVID-19 cases in Thailand during April 2021 was preceded by increased activities in workplaces that peaked in March.

In Malaysia and Indonesia, being Muslim countries, most people celebrated Eid in May. Despite government restrictions, people traveled to meet their families ("mudik" in Indonesia or "balik kampong" in Malaysia). We can easily relate the current spikes with the increase in mobility.

Additionally, the government's effort for economic recovery following the 2020 economic downturn has also been attributed to an increase in cases.

In Malaysia, for instance, more than 50% of about 9.300 new cases between February and April 2021 were found in workplaces, among construction and factory workers.

It's also clear that the new SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern are significant factors in the unprecedented spike. The Delta variant, for example, has shown transmission capacity and immune evasiveness that was never seen before for a coronavirus. This means there is increasing risk for the delta variant to wreak havoc an otherwise healthy immune system. What happened in India was a clear sign of this.

All four variants of concern (Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta) have been found in Southeast Asia, mainly in Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Singapore and Indonesia. The COVID cases are increasing in those countries, although Singapore tough measures have managed to control it.

The death also increase

A sharp increase in the death toll has accompanied the rising COVID-19 cases.

The weekly average of daily new deaths in Thailand recorded over a 100-fold increase over the period from April 1, 2021 (< 0.01 deaths per million population) to July 13, 2021 (1.05 deaths per million population).

Malaysia recorded a 24-fold increase (0.13 deaths per million population on April 1 compared to 3.13 deaths per million population on July 13) for the same parameters and period. Although Indonesia has recorded "only" 6.5-fold increase for the same period (0.51 vs 3.32), the country's death toll is now the worst in the region.

As of July 13, Indonesia's case fatality rate with 2.61 deaths for every 100 confirmed cases of COVID-19 remains the highest in Southeast Asia (Malaysia 0.75%; Thailand 0.81%).

When we published the Indonesian version of this article last month, Malaysians showed an 11-fold higher risk of being infected with COVID-19 than Indonesians (21.32 -Indonesia- vs 236.46 -Malaysia- new cases per million population).

In a mere one month, this gap is closing only 2-fold as of July 11 (126.98 -Indonesia- vs 254.43 -Malaysia-). This has happened amidst sterling efforts to increase testing capacity in Indonesia.

Vaccination as a solution

The United Kingdom and United States experience shows that vaccination is the most effective strategy in stopping the pandemic.

Even though both countries saw a recent spike in cases, with Delta being the dominant variant there, we do not see a corresponding spike in hospitalisations and deaths, as seen in Southeast Asia with lower vaccination coverage.

The United Kingdom and the United States experienced a surge of cases, hospitalisations and deaths in early 2021. Now in almost all of the parameters their numbers have significantly lowered. As of July 12, 51.55% of the UK's population and 47.69% of the US's population have been fully vaccinated.

On May 28, 2021, the US Center for Disease Control (CDC) issued bold recommendations for those who have been fully vaccinated. The agency has decided to remove the obligation to wear masks, social distancing and post-international-travel quarantine to those with complete vaccinations.

Test-Trace-Isolate

Test-Trace-Isolate (TTI) remains the key strategy to controlling the pandemic.

The principle of this effort is to detect as many cases as possible as quickly as possible, preventing them from becoming sources of virus spread. Upon detection, patients must be separated from the general public and be given medical care if necessary.

The government also has to meet WHO's 5% maximum positivity rate standard, used as a marker of adequacy in test coverage. If the positivity rate is still above 5%, the number of tests must be increased.

And until the majority of the population gets vaccinated, we should continue to wash hands, wear masks, maintain distance, avoid crowds and limit travel to control the pandemic.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
(HealthDay)Two major U.S. health systems say they will not administer the controversial new Alzheimer's drug Aduhelm.

The decisions by the Cleveland Clinic and Mount Sinai's Health System in New York City are the latest fallout from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's widely criticized approval of the Biogen drug on June 7, The New York Times reported.

Many experts say there's no clear evidence the drug helps slow mental decline in Alzheimer's patients, and the approval has triggered congressional investigations.

After an expert panel review of "all available scientific evidence on this medication," the Cleveland Clinic has decided not to carry the drug at this time, the clinic said in a statement, the Times reported.

Individual doctors can prescribe Aduhelm, but those patients would have to go elsewhere to receive the drug that's administered as a monthly intravenous infusion, the clinic added.

Mount Sinai's decision not to administer Aduhelm was influenced by calls for a federal investigation into the FDA decision and the agency's relationship with Biogen, Dr. Sam Gandy, director of the Mount Sinai Center for Cognitive Health in New York City, told the Times.

Many Alzheimer's experts have said that it is unclear that the drug actually slows cognitive decline while there is also evidence that Aduhelm could cause brain swelling or bleeding, the Times reported. The drug is also expensive, with a price tag pegged at $56,000 a year.

In a recent survey of nearly 200 neurologists and primary care doctors, most said they disagreed with the FDA decision and did not plan to prescribe the drug to their patients, the Times reported.

Last week, in response to growing criticism, acting FDA Commissioner Dr. Janet Woodcock called for an independent federal investigation into the agency's approval process.

"To the extent these concerns could undermine the public's confidence in FDA's decision, I believe it is critical that the events at issue be reviewed by an independent body," she said at the time.

Explore further Medicare mulls coverage for controversial Alzheimer's drug

More information: Visit the National Institute on Aging for more on Visit the National Institute on Aging for more on Alzheimer's disease.

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Australia's second largest city was preparing to enter a fresh lockdown Thursday, as countries across the world struggle to quash surges in COVID-19 cases propelled by the highly infectious Delta variant.

The coronavirus continues to spread havoc from Asia to Africa and the battle against the disease is being hampered by new strains such as Delta, which was first seen in India.

The virus has reappeared in places long believed to have dodged the worst of the pandemic, with Australialauded for its successful "COVID zero" strategyfacing a resurgence that has grown to almost 1,000 cases nationwide in a month.

About 12 million Australians will be under stay-at-home orders by late Thursday as the country's second biggest city Melbourne goes into a "hard and fast" lockdown, joining Sydney.

State premier Dan Andrews said he took the decision to return the cityand surrounding Victoriato its fifth lockdown "with a heavy heart" but it was an "absolute necessity".

"Nothing about this virus is fair," he said.

In Tokyonow just over a week away from the opening ceremony of the virus-postponed Olympicslocal authorities recorded 1,308 new cases, the highest number since January.

The virus is posing a unique challenge for Games organisers, who have been forced to ban spectators from almost all events and impose strict rules on visiting athletes.

Further dampening the Olympic spirit, organisers Thursday confirmed that an athlete in Japan and five Olympic workers, mostly contractors, had tested positive for COVID-19.

Countries where healthcare infrastructureand vaccine rollout capabilitiesremain limited are under particular pressure, with Rwanda set to go into a new lockdown on Saturday as cases skyrocket.

The East African nation had previously avoided the worst of the pandemic by enforcing some of the strictest containment measures on the continent.

But hospitals have been overwhelmed as the country battles more virulent variants, including Delta, in recent weeks, with a critical shortage of beds and medicines.

Asia's epicentre

In Asia, Indonesia Thursday posted a record 56,757 daily infections, as the Delta variant spreads through the world's fourth-most populous nation, which is overtaking India as the region's COVID-19 epicentre.

The China-based Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank said it was loaning the Southeast Asian nation $500 million to boost its response as Indonesia's deadliest wave yet brings scores of hospitals to the brink of collapse.

Vaccine doses are flowing into the hard-hit country by the millions, including from Japan and the United States, while Jakarta on Thursday approved the Pfizer-BioNTech jab for emergency use. Indonesia has said it is on track to receive about 50 million doses of the jointly made jab through this year.

Also facing chronic shortages of medical supplies is Myanmar, where residents across the coup-hit country's biggest city defied a military curfew in a desperate search for oxygen to keep their loved ones with COVID breathing.

Millions in Yangon and the second city of Mandalay have been ordered to stay home, but the death toll continues to rise and volunteer teams are stepping in to remove the bodies of victims from their neighbourhoods.

Residents told AFP they had slipped out in the dead of night to secure spots in lines to refill oxygen cylindersdismissing claims from the country's military rulers that there is more than enough to go around.

Painting a more optimistic picture despite rising caseloads of its own is neighbouring Thailand, where three more islands opened to vaccinated foreign tourists Thursday as part of the kingdom's push to revive its battered tourism industry.

The country launched a "sandbox" scheme on July 1, allowing vaccinated travellers to visit Phuket island. Tourists do not have to quarantine in a hotel but cannot leave the island for two weeks.

Explore further Russia sets another COVID record as world battles Delta variant

 2021 AFP
Figure 2MRI scans showing a range of neurological complications (A, B, C) MRI brain and spine scans from a White girl aged 2 years with ADEM (case number 4, appendix p 7; the full patient history is given in appendix p 1). There are multiple hyperintense foci on the axial T2-weighted (A) and T2 FLAIR (B) images involving both cerebral hemispheres, including the basal ganglia, thalami, and subcortical and periventricular white matter (green arrows). Sagittal T2-weighted image of the spine (C) shows a focus of hyperintensity within the cord close to the conus (red arrow). (D, E, F) MRI brain scans from an Asian boy aged 11 years who presented with PIMS-TS, encephalopathy, and MERS (case number 48, appendix p 11; the full patient history is given in appendix p 1). Axial T2-weighted image (D) shows a focus of hyperintensity involving the splenium of the corpus callosum along the midline (green arrow). The B1000 (E) and the ADC maps (F) from the diffusion-weighted imaging shows subtle diffusion restriction involving the lesion. (G, H, I, J) MRI spine scans from an Asian boy aged 16 months who presented with Guillain-Barre syndrome (case number 8, appendix p 7; the full patient history is given in appendix p 2). Sagittal T1-weighted images before (G) and after contrast (H) show enhancement of the lumbosacral nerve roots (green arrows). The axial T1-weighted post-contrast images (I, J) show bilateral enhancement of the nerve roots. ADEM=acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. FLAIR=fluid-attenuated inversion recovery. PIMS-TS=paediatric multisystem inflammatory syndrome temporally associated with COVID-19. MERS=mild encephalopathy with reversible splenial lesion. ADC=apparent diffusion coefficient.

Although the risk of a child being admitted to hospital due to COVID-19 is small, a new UK study has found that around 1 in 20 of children hospitalized with COVID-19 develop brain or nerve complications linked to the viral infection.

The research, published in The Lancet Child and Adolescent Health and led by the University of Liverpool, identifies a wide spectrum of neurological complications in children and suggests they may be more common than in adults admitted with COVID-19.

While neurological problems have been reported in children with the newly described post-COVID condition pediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2 (PIMS-TS), the capacity of COVID-19 to cause a broad range of nervous system complications in children has been under-recognized.

To address this, the CoroNerve Studies Group, a collaboration between the universities of Liverpool, Newcastle, Southampton and UCL, developed a real-time UK-wide notification system in partnership with the British Pediatric Neurology Association.

Between April 2020 and January 2021, they identified 52 cases of children less than 18 years old with neurological complications among 1,334 children hospitalized with COVID-19, giving an estimated prevalence of 3.8%. This compares to an estimated prevalence of 0.9% in adults admitted with COVID-19.

Eight (15%) children presenting with neurological features did not have COVID-19 symptoms although the virus was detected by PCR, underscoring the importance of screening children with acute neurological disorders for the virus.

Ethnicity was found to be a risk factor, over two thirds of children being of Black or Asian background.

For the first time, the study identified key differences between those with PIMS-TS versus those with non-PIMS-TS neurological complications. The 25 children (48%) diagnosed with PIMS-TS displayed multiple neurological features including encephalopathy, stroke, behavioral change, and hallucinations; they were more likely to require intensive care. Conversely, the non-PIMS-TS 27 (52%) children had a primary neurological disorder such as prolonged seizures, encephalitis (brain inflammation), Guillain-Barre syndrome and psychosis. In almost half of these cases, this was a recognized post-infectious neuro-immune disorder, compared to just one child in the PIMS-TS group, suggesting that different immune mechanisms are at work.

Short-term outcomes were apparently good in two thirds (65%) although a third (33%) had some degree of disability and one child died at the time of follow-up. However, the impacts on the developing brain and longer-term consequences are not yet known.

First author Dr. Stephen Ray, a Wellcome Trust clinical fellow and pediatrician at the University of Liverpool said: "The risk of a child being admitted to hospital due to COVID-19 is small, but among those hospitalized, brain and nerve complications occur in almost 4%. Our nationwide study confirms that children with the novel post-infection hyper-inflammatory syndrome PIMS-TS can have brain and nerve problems; but we have also identified a wide spectrum of neurological disorders in children due to COVID-19 who didn't have PIMS-TS. These were often due to the child's immune response after COVID-19 infection."

Joint senior-author Dr. Rachel Kneen, a Consultant Pediatric Neurologist at Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust and honorary clinical Senior Lecturer at the University of Liverpool said: "Many of the children identified were very unwell. Whilst they had a low risk of death, half needed intensive care support and a third had neurological disability identified. Many were given complex medication and treatments, often aimed at controlling their own immune system. We need to follow these children up to understand the impact in the long term."

Joint senior-author Dr. Benedict Michael, a senior clinician scientist and MRC Fellow at the University of Liverpool said: "Now we appreciate the capacity for COVID-19 to cause a wide range of brain complications in those children who are hospitalized with this disease, with the potential to cause life-long disability, we desperately need research to understand the immune mechanisms which drive this. Most importantly- How do we identify those children at risk and how should we treat them to prevent lasting brain injury? We are so pleased that the UK government has funded our COVID-CNS study to understand exactly these questions so that we can help inform doctors to better recognize and treat these children."

"Neurological manifestations of COVID-19 infection in UK hospitalized children and adolescents: a prospective national cohort study" is published in The Lancet Child and Adolescent Health.

Explore further Study highlights neurological impact of COVID-19 on children

More information: Stephen T J Ray et al, Neurological manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 infection in hospitalised children and adolescents in the UK: a prospective national cohort study, The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health (2021). Stephen T J Ray et al, Neurological manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 infection in hospitalised children and adolescents in the UK: a prospective national cohort study,(2021). DOI: 10.1016/S2352-4642(21)00193-0
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

The number of people being vaccinated against COVID-19 in South Africa is on the rise after a bumpy start. But the more positive attitudes are not always reflected in vaccine registrations and vaccinations, according to the latest results of the Coronavirus Rapid Mobile Survey. The survey follows a nationally representative sample of South Africans. The same people are contacted on a monthly basis and asked questions about a wide range of issues such as their income, household welfare, and their knowledge and behavior related to COVID-19. The research was done by experts at the universities of Stellenbosch and Cape Town. Ronelle Burger, one of the lead researchers of the survey, spoke to The Conversation Africa about the findings.

How is South Africa doing?

Our survey found an increase in the proportion of adults willing to get vaccinated from 71% in March 2021 to 76% in May 2021.

Vaccine acceptance in South Africa is now comparable to high-income countries such as Australia and Germany.

But nearly one in four participants were still hesitant about getting vaccinated. About one in 15 were strongly opposed to vaccinations. This group may not be open to persuasion.

What are the gaps between intention and action?

We also found a large gap between the proportion of people saying they were willing to vaccinate and those who had actually taken action. In the survey we used the electronic registration for vaccination as a proxy to measure people's ability to convert intention into action.

In the age group of people older than 60, 78% said they were willing to vaccinate. Nationally, by the beginning of July 2021, only 55% this group had registered for vaccination. This shows that there are many people who say they are willing to be vaccinated but have still not taken action to get themselves registered. It is important to understand this gap between intent and action. The international literature suggests that this is most likely attributable to underlying uncertainty and distrust, requiring more assurances or due to a high time or money cost of registrations and vaccinations.

This interpretation aligns with the large gaps we see in vaccine registrations across the provinces and Limpopo's strong lead at 77% versus the 55% average. Limpopo is the country's poorest province, and has a large population of elderly who are mostly illiterate and live in rural areas. It also has the lowest share of people covered by medical schemes. To ensure an equitable and efficient vaccine rollout the province chose a different path. Community health workers were provided with smartphones and went into communities to help older people get registered for vaccination. Royal and religious leaders were among the first to get the jab, and this helped to encourage people to vaccinate. And vaccine sites were set up in areas that are easy to access.

What needs to be done?

The international literature and the case study of Limpopo suggest that addressing this intent-action gap requires a three-pronged strategy.

The first is to provide accurate information about vaccine safety and side effects. Vaccine safety was a major concern among respondents. People expressed concerns about the possible side effects and that the vaccine testing might have been rushed. Such communication should be done in languages that people understand, on platforms that are readily accessible.

Communication campaigns must be tailored to address those who are still fearful. For example, vaccine acceptance was higher among people living in traditional settlements, among isiZulu, isiTsonga and Setswana speakers, and black respondents. It was significantly lower among respondents living in urban formal residential housing who are Afrikaans speakers, and white and Coloured respondents. Vaccine acceptance also remains low among young people.

The second thing is to increase trust by working with community leaders and networks to spread the correct information about vaccines. In our survey, more than half of the respondents who were on the fence said they would get vaccinated if a trusted community leader got vaccinated and stayed healthy.

The third thing to do is to remove barriers for those who do want to get vaccinated. Some of these barriers are access to internet and other resources required to register for vaccination, being far from vaccination sites and not having time to go to a vaccination point during the work day.

What about vaccination inequality?

The worst case scenario of uneven vaccine distribution would be a localized version of the global events where rich nations have vaccinated large proportions of their populations and poor countries are dealing with constant resurgence. The same could happen if there isn't a concerted effort to make sure that people who don't have access to private health services are vaccinated at the same rate as their richer counterparts. South Africa could see continued COVID-19 hospitalisations and deaths among the poorest communities. Currently, the proportion of people older than 60 with medical aid who have been vaccinated is around double of those without.

But the National Department of Health has shown increased awareness of this situation and seems willing to take measures to address this. For example, COVID-19 vaccinations will also take place over weekends and plans are under way to set up mobile vaccination sites at the pay points for old age grants.

Explore further White people more likely to be vaccinated than Black people, but both are equally hesitant

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Credit: International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis

According to the World Health Organization, a third wave of COVID infections is now all but inevitable in Europe. A COVID tracker developed by IIASA researcher Asjad Naqvi, aims to identify, collect, and collate various official regional datasets for European countries, while also combining and homogenizing the data to help researchers and policymakers explore how the virus spreads.

While many comparisons have been made between the COVID-19 pandemic and similar events in history, one thing sets this pandemic apart from others: the unprecedented amount of knowledge and data that is constantly being generated to understand how the pandemic is unfolding. For a high-income region like Europe, the quality of information made available on a daily basis is exceptionally high compared to the rest of the world. Using this information to make comparisons between different European countries is however not a simple task.

Almost all European countries make COVID-19 data available in the form of maps and trend graphs, but access to data behind these visualizations varies from country to country, with most allowing some form of access to regional data, while others do not release this information publicly. European countries also tend to define regions differently. The European Commission and Eurostatthe statistical office of the European Unionfor instance, use homogenous units known as Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics (NUTS), where NUTS 0 denotes countries, NUTS 1 are typically provinces, NUTS 2 are districts, and NUTS 3 are sub-districts. In addition, differences in testing practices and how COVID-19 related hospital admissions and deaths are recorded, further complicate the comparison of data. Lastly, not all European countries are part of the European Union, and therefore are not subject to Eurostat reporting or data sharing requirements.

To overcome some of these challenges, IIASA researcher Asjad Naqvi has developed a COVID-19 tracker that presents data on daily COVID-19 cases at the sub-national level for 26 European countries from January 2020 until the present. Although several innovative datasets that collect unique COVID-19 related information, such as the Oxford COVID-19 Government Response Tracker and the Complexity Science Hub (CSH) Tracker have come onto the scene since the start of the pandemic, Naqvi's tracker aims to identify, collect, and collate various official regional datasets for European countries, while also combining and homogenizing the data at the NUTS 3 or NUTS 2 level. This homogenized dataset makes it possible to explore how the virus spreads in terms of cumulative cases, daily cases, and cases per capita in Europe at a daily resolution.

"One of my aims in developing this tracker was to ensure data transparency, while also making the data consistent and ready for analysis. The paper identifies sources of COVID-19 datasets for 26 European countries and how to access each of them. The data set currently contains over 0.5 million data points at the NUTS 3 or NUTS 2 level," Naqvi explains.

The tracker's data, which is discussed in a new paper published in the journal Scientific Data, can be merged with country or continent-level datasets, such as primary surveys, data from national statistical offices, or data from Eurostat, to conduct comprehensive analyses on the causes and implications of COVID-19. The paper contains a detailed discussion of data sources in each country, including their strengths and weaknesses, and the raw country-level files are provided in an online repository. According to Naqvi, this is one of the very few datasets that has been continuously updated since August 2020 to provide consistent daily information on a regional level for Europe.

The map, for example, clearly illustrates that Germany, on the whole, insulated itself well against the virus and that Sweden and Czechia were particularly hard hit since the start of the pandemic.

Naqvi notes that the tracker can be used for a host of different research questions. It can, for instance, be mapped onto NUTS-level regional data including various economic, demographic, health, tourism, and labor related indicators, some of which also have a monthly or even a weekly frequency. Since data for individual countries are provided, a detailed country-specific analysis can also be done if regional or micro data are available for analysis. Other datasets cataloged on platforms such as the Oxford COVID-19 Supertracker, provides a range of interesting information on various policies put in place by countries during the pandemic. The tracker data can be combined with several innovative global datasets containing NUTS-level information for European countries. As the data for the tracker has a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC-BY), anyone can access it at any time. The data base will continue to be updated regularly until countries stop publishing regional COVID-19 data.

Explore further COVID-19 impacted access to abortion care all over Europe

More information: Asjad Naqvi, COVID-19 European regional tracker, Scientific Data (2021). Asjad Naqvi, COVID-19 European regional tracker,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s41597-021-00950-7
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus E.Shestakov meets the Ambassador of Cuba

On July 14, 2021 the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus, Evgeny Shestakov, met with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Cuba to the Republic of Belarus, Juan Valdez Figueroa.

During the conversation, the parties exchanged views on topical issues on international and regional agenda.

The sides expressed mutual satisfaction with a friendly and constructive nature of the Belarusian-Cuban cooperation and noted their commitment to further expanding interaction on all issues on the bilateral agenda.

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Reintjes said it was a challenge to put together shows that were accessible but didnt water down the subject.

Paths forward

The Space for Hope, meanwhile, comprises recent works with a more optimistic theme.

(They took the title from writer Rebecca Solnit: We dont know what is going to happen, or how, or when, and that very uncertainty is the space of hope.)

The pieces are drawn from an open call without any boundaries on geography and an emphasis on underrepresented voices.

Casey Schachner, a University of Montana MFA graduate now based in Tennessee, carved two handholds into a block of marble. Marked with a sign (please touch), two viewers can extend hands to each other.

Emma Ulen-Klees, of Bozeman, pushes viewers to rethink single-use excess by taking a closer look at what plastic, or specifically microplastics, are. She scanned and magnified individual fragments collected in Hawaii. Seen at large scale with their wholesome and welcoming consumer colors (canary yellow and baby blue), their permanence seems easier to understand.
Hundreds of people gathered in the shade outside the new Missoula Public Librarys front doors on Wednesday afternoon to celebrate a grand opening that was nearly five years in the making.

Featured guests with the library board, county commission, Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, the downtown partnership and many others offered their congratulations before cutting the ribbon and letting the community into the completed space.

This building represents the truth of our community and that we care for one another, said Missoula Mayor John Engen.

In 2016, Missoula voters approved a $30 million bond to build a new library. With the support of the Payne family, the building was able to remain downtown. The librarys capital campaign raised an additional $6.5 million to expand services by including space for partners like the University of Montana.

Even if you didnt vote for the library, thank you for those tax dollars youre going to pay, said Mae Nan Ellingson, co-chair of the librarys capital campaign.

Missoula first voted to support a public library in 1894. From then, the community has continually come together to envision what its library could be in the future.

You have built a library that reflects the legacy of your past, it serves your diverse information needs today and it is an incubator for the future, said Jennie Stapp, the state librarian for Montana. This great structure is a physical reflection of the value you place on your community and in that you should be immensely proud.

Most speakers noted the collaborative nature of the new library  Stapp said its the only one of its kind in Montana.

Attendees flooded through the front doors to explore the interior. Children sprinted upstairs to the second floor to survey their new reading areas and interactive spaces. Most gravitated to the spectrUM Discovery Area, a hands-on science center made possible through a partnership between the library and the university.

The interactive children's area first launched on campus at the Skaggs Building, and later moved between two different locations in town before finally settling in its permanent home at the new library.

Kids in attendance saw liquid nitrogen demonstrations and cow eye dissections, among other scientific exhibits.

Becca Monson brought her children to check out the new space. She home-schools them and frequently visited the library at its old location.

This is really cool, Monson said.

Monsons son was preoccupied with the exhibits at the watershed experience, playing with the toy fish in the waterway built to resemble the Clark Fork River going through town.

We havent been here since they opened it, and its amazing, Monson said.

She and her family are most excited to utilize the spectrUM space and were eager for its return after the pandemic and library construction. They plan to return often, she said.

But spectrUM is only one of the universitys spaces in the library. On the first floor families can check out the UM Living Lab directed by Rachel Severson, an associate professor of developmental psychology.

I have been blown away by the reception from visitors, Severson said. This is something very near and dear to my heart.

The UM Living Lab officially opened on July 1 and is funded through a $1.3 million Science Education Partnership Award from the National Institutes of Health. Children and their families are able to participate in studies and scientific activities, and meet researchers.

The space is the newest additional to the national living lab initiative that has 40 locations worldwide.

All but three are located in science centers or museums where you have to pay an entry fee to get in  we are one of three that is located in a public library and that means theres zero barriers to entry, Severson said.

The grand opening included an ice cream celebration outside, with a specialty ice cream flavor story time swirl, created and donated to the library by Big Dipper Ice Cream. Other events, which occupied all four floors of the building, included author readings, chemistry shows, virtual reality and a live broadcast of Montana Public Radios Pea Green Boat.

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For the second year in a row, the religious organization Jehovahs Witnesses of the United States of America have canceled their annual convention in Missoula.

Since 2012, the event has drawn about 3,500 extremely well-dressed people to the Adams Center on the University of Montana campus for a multi-day gathering in the summer.

The pandemic halted those plans in 2020 and organizers decided to hold a virtual event this year.

Jehovahs Witnesses have held conventions in Montana for over 40 years, explained Charles Ersland, a Bozeman-based media representative for the organization. I would say theres a little bit of disappointment. Being together is what you miss. Its pretty incredible.

Ersland estimated that there are probably 300 Jehovahs Witnesses in Missoula, so the vast majority of conference attendees come from out-of-town and spend money at hotels, restaurants and local shops.
The sheriff told the county board that the suspect then rummaged through Griger's pockets for a set of keys, but then decided he didn't want that car.

"He got out of that vehicle, and found another random person driving to the gas station ... and he shot at that person. That person got out of there as fast as they could, Schmaling said.

Schmaling has said a motive for the initial shooting has not been determined. He released Griger's name Wednesday and said his family, including his wife, had asked for privacy.

Schmaling said he had watched video of the Pilot Travel Center shooting and described it as an execution.

The suspect then got back into his own vehicle and sped off to the Mobil station, where he encountered the investigator pumping gas into his unmarked squad car, officials said.

This individual, is clear to me after watching the video, had no idea who he (the suspect) is about to encounter. And this, were splitting seconds here. He came out, gun drawn and approached the investigator, and started to shoot at him. We are again splitting seconds. The investigator immediately began firing back at him, falling to the ground and taking on at least two rounds, and then firing back at him, Schmaling said.
BANGKOK (AP)  Production of the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine at a factory in Thailand has fallen short of its target, likely delaying the country's plan to acquire a total of 61 million doses until next May, a government official said Thursday.

The projected supply shortfall will complicate plans to inoculate at least 70% of the countrys 69 million people this year as Thailand battles record-high daily increases in COVID-19 cases and deaths. Cases have risen with the spread of the more contagious delta variant of the virus.

Deputy Health Minister Sathit Pitutacha said in an interview with MCOT Television that AstraZeneca had asked for the extension until next May to complete delivery, and that while the timeframe is flexible, the government will still negotiate for as much monthly supply as possible.

He said that according to AstraZeneca, the current production capacity of the factory operated by Siam Bioscience, a company owned by Thailand's king, is 15 million doses per month, and that AstraZeneca has agreed to provide 40% of that to Thailand. Sathit said production could increase in the future.
This is a letter of thanks: thanks to the supporters of the Blackfoot-Clearwater Stewardship Act, furthering wilderness, timber management, recreation, and cold, clean water for the Blackfoot.

Thanks to Pyramid Lumber in Seeley Lake, Great Divide Cyclery in Helena, Grizzly Hackle Fly Shop in Missoula and to 57 other business and labor supporters.

Thanks to the Lewis and Clark, Missoula and Powell county commissions, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Nation, and five other tribes and government supporters.

Thanks to the Clearwater Resource Council, Lolo Restoration Committee, Seeley-Swan Fuels Mitigation Task Force and nine other collaborative group supporters.

Thanks to the Big Blackfoot Chapter of Trout Unlimited, Helena Hunters and Anglers, Montana Bowhunters Association and 15 other sportsmen and -women groups.

Thanks to MTB Missoula, the Montana Back Country Horsemen, Yellowstone River Parks Association and nine other recreation groups.

Thanks to the Bob Marshall Wilderness Outfitters, Rich Ranch Outfitters, Blackfoot River Outfitters and 20 other outfitter and guide supporters.
We are disheartened to report another COVID death. We extend our sympathy to the family and friends, Burke County Health Director Danny Scalise said. We encourage as many residents as possible to consider taking the safe and effective vaccines available to help prevent any further spikes of the virus within our community. We continue to ask residents to please stay at home when they are sick with any COVID-like symptoms and not visit family, friends, events, etc. to reduce the chance of passing COVID-19 and other infections.
VALDESE  The Valdese Family Friday Nights summer concert series will continue its 2021 season with The Super 60s beginning at 7 p.m. Friday on Temple Field behind the Old Rock School.

Critics agree that for musicianship and authenticity, it doesnt get any better than The Super 60s. Comprised of professional musicians who have a deep respect for tunes from the musically rich decade of the 1960s, they are sure to create an event that will transport listeners back in time to the days when life was simple.

Craig St. John (guitar and lead vocals) was born and raised in the Chicago area. St. John began his musical education in one of Americas first megachurches, the First Baptist Church of Hammond, Indiana. He received extensive formal voice instruction, learning to sight read sheet music, develop vocal arrangements and perform for very large audiences. He is a multi-instrumentalist, playing guitar, keyboards, saxophone and percussion, who has performed for more than 30 years, touring the U.S. with the 1980s San Diego-based hard rock band Teazer.
According to prosecutors, medical personnel went to Lopezs residence on a report of a baby not breathing. He was breathing when they got there but was taken to St. James Healthcare and then transported to Primary Childrens Hospital in Salt Lake.

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A doctor there said the baby had suffered an injury to the left side of his brain which included a bleed on the brain and swelling of the brain and a piece of the infants skull had to be removed to relieve the swelling.

That same doctor reported that the injuries sustained are indicative of trauma associated with child abuse.

During a police interview, Lopez said that while holding his son, he had stepped on some cords, causing a DVD player to fall. He said he was startled, jumped up or back, then turned and the infants head must have struck a dresser.

But in a subsequent interview, Lopez admitted he freaked out, did shake the infant back and forth and was responsible for the injuries. He pleaded guilty to assault on a minor in December 2019.

Delays in a presentence investigation delayed sentencing until Thursday. Demers said his client had not only stayed out of trouble during that time, he was employed and working long shifts and was enrolled to take courses this fall at Montana Tech.
The June 15 guest view published in the Montana Standard titled Our outdoor heritage, authored by Representatives Wylie Galt, Casey Knudsen, and Sue Vinton, suggested that Republican legislators worked to improve Montanans' recreational opportunities during the 2021 legislative session. They claimed to have improved wildlife management, expanded elk hunting opportunity, reduced efforts to shut off access to public lands, improved habitat, and reformed Montanas outdoor management agencies. They accused Montanans, frustrated with their actions, of generating false claims about their work.

As a group of Montana resident sportsmen, the Butte Skyline Sportsmens Association respectfully disagrees with many of these claims. From our perspective, the 2021 legislative session was one of the most demanding and frustrating experienced, because of Republican-sponsored legislation. We do appreciate Republican-sponsored HB 353, which authorized replacement hunting licenses for harvested game deemed unfit for consumption, and the portion of HB 637 that increased Block Management reimbursement to landowners. We also appreciate funding allocated to the Habitat Montana Program through HB 701. However, funding allocation to the Habitat Montana Program  a program Butte Skyline Sportsmen's Association views as one of the most beneficial to Montana resident sportsmen and general public lands users  was not the result of Republican effort. Montanans spoke clearly, through their votes on Ballot Initiative 190, regarding our desire for this funding. Subsequently, Montanans had to fight Republican legislators to include this funding in HB 701.
Sheriff Quinn Riess reported the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board was on scene Thursday morning and despite rain and inclement weather, the investigation was proceeding. The cause of the accident is still unknown. Riess said the investigation would continue through the day no matter the weather conditions.

I know they are trying to make arrangements for its removal probably sometime (Thursday) afternoon, Riess said. With the weather as it is and the conditions getting back and forth to the site I dont know if that plan is still in effect or if it is being put off because getting equipment to site is going to be a challenge.

Riess does not know when the results of the federal investigation will be made available to the public.

A debriefing will be done Thursday afternoon for the emergency responders who searched the 250x150 yard crash site for wreckage or other passengers from the plane. Riess said he was very impressed with professionalism of the 60 to 80 responders that deployed to search.

He said there are new and seasoned people in every department and the debriefing is being done to verify fact vs. myth and to make sure everyone is handling it appropriately.
Grants are approved on a five-year cycle, meaning the trail project should have been initiated by 2020. Shutt said the county received two bids in 2019 but were rejected because they were nearly $90,000 above the grant funding.

He also told the council that secondary roads funds could not be used to cover the 20% required local match. If the city wanted to move the project forward, it would need to come up with the funds.

He and Lassiter also said it could drop the award and reapply later.

The council eventually agreed to move forward with the current grant award and asked Shutt to develop new bid documents for a possible January bid opening.

The council did not specify where it would get the local match funding, but members suggested the Roundy Fund would be the likely source.

In final action, the council received an update on Columbus Junctions LULAC Council 3176. Community advocate Araceli Vazquez and former state director Mike Reyes said the Center for Disaster Philanthropy awarded a COVID-19 grant that will support the community advocate position through 2022.

Among her efforts, Vazquez said she helped develop food drives and distribution, purchased 10 Chromebooks for the library and distributed over 3,000 facemasks.
During the three-week trial, prosecutors gave jurors proof that Calk played a pivotal role in getting approval for a $9.5 million real estate construction loan and another $6.5 million so Manafort could finish construction on a Brooklyn condominium and avoid foreclosure.

Defense lawyers argued that Calk could not win approval for the loans without the bank's loan committee and underwriters agreeing to the terms. And they noted that the loans were obtained at a time when Manafort was considered wealthy and successful and had not yet been criminally charged.

Early in the trial, Anthony Scaramucci testified that he never would have enabled Calk to get the interview for the administration post if he had know that Calk was helping Manafort to get millions of dollars in loans for his real estate ventures.

Scaramucci had testified that Manafort, who served as Trumps campaign manager for a key stretch from June to early August 2016, reached out to him in mid-to-late December 2016 to encourage him to consider Calk for an important position.

At the time, Scaramucci was working on Trump's presidential transition team.

Although Calk had hoped to become Secretary of the Army, he eventually interviewed for other positions because that post had already been filled, Scaramucci said.

Manafort lost his position in Trumps campaign over his ties to Ukraine. Special counsel Robert Muellers Russia investigation led to his criminal conviction and a sentence of over seven years in prison for financial crimes related to his political consulting work in Ukraine. In December, Trump pardoned him.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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A locally designed and built catamaran for use on remote outer atolls in the Marshall Islands is this week trialing use of a solar-powered 15hp engine. This trial is expected to lead to experimenting with solar powered engines for a variety of small craft in the country as part of a large-scale sustainable ocean transport program underway in the Marshall Islands.
Cannabis stickers on a Weed World store window are pictured the day New York State legalized recreational marijuana use amid the coronavirus disease pandemic in the Manhattan borough of New York City on March 31, 2021.
Editor

Zaldy Dandan is the recipient of the Best Editorial Writer Award of the Society of Professional Journalists, and the CNMI Humanities Award for Outstanding Contributions to Journalism. His three books are available on amazon.com
Dogecoin creator Jackson Palmer has returned to Twitter to post a thread blasting cryptocurrency, calling it an inherently right-wing, hyper-capitalistic technology that is being used to scam the vulnerable.

According to Palmer, the technology was built primarily to amplify the wealth of its proponents through a combination of tax avoidance, diminished regulatory oversight and artificially enforced scarcity.

Palmers lambasting of the cryptocurrency space should not come as a surprise. In January 2018, he wrote an article for Vice about his creation of Dogecoin, noting that it had a $2 billion valuation, which represented something very wrong.

As of today, thanks in part to the efforts of high-profile posts from Elon Musk punting the token, Dogecoins market capitalisation has grown to $26 billion  and again, thats with a massive plunge from its highs.

Of course, there are going to be detractors who argue that hes just resentful that he built this ultra-valuable joke and never cashed in. In his Vice piece, he talks about stepping away and giving up his coins back in 2015:

By 2015, the energy in the community had changedthose who got burned by the scammers began to disappear and the communitys interest in Dogecoin declined, as did its price in US dollars. At the same time, confidence in Bitcoin was shaken: hacks and scams dominated the news cycle, and merchant adoption failed to grow at forecasted rates. Despite these events, huge sums of venture capital continued to pour into fresh cryptocurrency companies backed only by buzzword-laden websites and lacking any discernible business model. In light of all this, in 2015 I decided to back away from any involvement in Dogecoin and cryptocurrency in general. I handed development of Dogecoin over to a team of community members that I trusted. I made it clear at the time that any Dogecoin I previously heldthe small amount I have now came from people tipping me after I lefthad been sent to charity drives run by the community, and that Id made zero profit from my involvement with the project.

In his Twitter thread, Palmer said that despite claims of decentralisation, the cryptocurrency industry is controlled by a powerful cartel of wealthy figures.

With time [they] have evolved to incorporate many of the same institutions tied to the existing centralised financial system they supposedly set out to replace, he said.

The cryptocurrency industry leverages a network of shady business connections, bought influencers and pay-for-play media outlets to perpetuate a cult-like get rich quick funnel designed to extract new money from the financially desperate and naive.

While financial exploitation existed before cryptocurrency, Palmer argued that cryptocurrency is almost purpose-built to make the funnel of profiteering more efficient for those at the top and less safeguarded for the vulnerable.

Cryptocurrency is like taking the worst parts of todays capitalist system (eg. corruption, fraud, inequality) and using software to technically limit the use of interventions (eg. audits, regulation, taxation) which serve as protections or safety nets for the average person, stated Palmer.

Lose your savings account password? Your fault. Fall victim to a scam? Your fault. Billionaires manipulating markets? Theyre geniuses, he said.

This is the type of dangerous free for all capitalism cryptocurrency was unfortunately architected to facilitate since its inception.

There are many in the cryptocurrency community who believe the exact opposite to Palmer that crypto can be an egalitarian force  and theyll point to whats going on in El Salvador, or other emerging markets, where holders use the asset as a way to avoid failing currencies.

I am often asked if I will return to cryptocurrency or begin regularly sharing my thoughts on the topic again. My answer is a wholehearted no, but to avoid repeating myself I figure it might be worthwhile briefly explaining why here  Jackson Palmer (@ummjackson) July 14, 2021

Reporting with Bloomberg.
First National Bank (FNB) has started blocking its clients from buying cryptocurrency with their credit cards from overseas exchanges.

One MyBroadband reader said that they tried to purchase a small amount of cryptocurrency through Binance on Thursday morning and were blocked.

Binance is the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the world by trading volume, according to CoinGecko and CoinMarketcap.

With this move, FNB joins Absa and Standard Bank in banning clients from buying cryptocurrencies using their credit cards from offshore crypto-asset exchange providers.

As per the exchange control regulations, the purchase of cryptocurrency will no longer be allowed, and all international Debit and/or Credit Card transactions will be declined, FNB said in a message to clients.

Customers who wish to purchase International Cryptocurrency Assets may consider a SWIFT transaction via our Foreign Exchange Desk, in accordance with applicable Foreign Exchange Allowances.

Farzam Ehsani, the CEO of South African cryptocurrency exchange VALR, took issue with FNBs message to clients on Twitter.

This message is false, FNB. The purchase of cryptocurrency most certainly is allowed in SA from local platforms, Ehsani stated.

Kindly correct your message. This is a disservice to your customers as you are currently spreading fake news.

The South African Reserve Bank recently published a set of documents stating that several common uses of cryptocurrency in South Africa are actually criminal offences.

This includes transferring crypto assets offshore or to decentralised exchanges, whether from your own wallet or a local exchange provider like Luno, VALR, and AltCoinTrader.

According to the Reserve Bank, transferring cryptocurrency overseas is a violation of South Africas exchange control regulations  a set of laws that date back to 1961.

Contravening South Africas exchange control regulations carries a penalty of a R250,000 fine and possibly up to five years imprisonment.

The fine may be increased up to the value of the offending transaction under certain circumstances. However, the regulations specifically link this escalation to any security, foreign currency, gold, bank-note, cheque, postal order, bill, note, debt, payment or goods.

However, while it may be a criminal offence to transfer crypto-assets out of South Africa, and the Reserve Bank may have blocked the international purchase of cryptocurrency via credit card, South Africas central bank has also said that it remains legal to buy crypto assets in South Africa.

You are also allowed to make use of your Single Discretionary Allowance and Foreign Investment Allowance to move money to an offshore cryptocurrency exchange and buy assets from there.

The Reserve Bank stated that you are under no obligation to return them to South Africa once you have purchased crypto assets offshore.

When asked for clarity on the ban on credit card purchases from exchanges like Binance, the Financial Surveillance Department of the Reserve Bank (FinSurv) provided the following statement:

Credit and/or debit cards, including co-branded cards issued by banks  as licensed by American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard or Visa  may not be utilised to purchase crypto assets on a foreign crypto-asset exchange.

According to FinSurv, international credit card purchases from South Africa are allowed under Section B.16(E)(i) of the Currency and Exchanges Manual for Authorised Dealers.

It states:

Resident individuals or local entities in whose name one or more bank credit and/or debit cards have been issued may be permitted to make permissible foreign currency payments for small transactions (e.g. imports over the Internet), by means of such credit and/or debit cards.

However, FinSurv said that the purchase of crypto assets from a foreign crypto-asset exchange is not regarded as a payment for imports.

It did not further clarify what makes buying cryptocurrencies on a credit card any different from buying any other digital good.
A key warehouse used by Samsung was destroyed and several of the companys service centres ransacked during riots in KwaZulu-Natal on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The warehouse in Cato Ridge belonged to Value Logistics, which Samsung used as its main staging warehouse between the Durban port and the rest of South Africa.

Samsung was not the only client housing goods at the warehouse, and the destruction of the facility is a major blow not only to the KwaZulu-Natal region but the whole of South Africa.

Fortunately it was not our only facility, though it was our biggest facility, said the director of integrated mobility at Samsung South Africa, Justin Hume.

Hume told MyBroadband that the plundering of the warehouse does create some potential disruption for Samsung with respect to its home appliance products.

No mobile phones were kept at the facility, Hume said.

He added that Samsung didnt have a lot of TVs stockpiled at the warehouse as these are produced at a factory in a different location and dont sit in warehouses for long.

Hume said that the biggest blow for Samsung was not even the loss of the warehouse, but the destruction of several service centres around the KwaZulu-Natal area.

While the service centres dont have a big financial impact on Samsung, losing them negatively impacts the companys ability to serve customers in the region.

#Watch Value Logistics in Cato Ridge is being looted and trucks set alight right now. Management says many people are stealing Diesel as many fueling stations are closed. #eNCA #KZNshutdown #KZNViolence #Shutdown pic.twitter.com/IKa5vuqZrG  Ronald Masinda (@RONALDMASINDA) July 14, 2021

Posts on social media on Tuesday showed looters making off with TVs and other appliances housed at the Value Logistics warehouse.

On Wednesday the rioters returned, this time setting fire to trucks parked at the facility.

SABC News reported that a minibus taxi crashed into a Value Logistics truck, killing both of the occupants of the taxi.

The South African National Defence Force arrived on the scene on Wednesday and arrested several looters, SABC news journalist Nonkululeko Hlophe reported.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala also visited the site and confronted looters.

#sabcnews #sabckzn The Value Warehouse is on fire at Cato Ridge. Goods from here have been looted. pic.twitter.com/GytGbiFz3k  Nonkululeko Hlophe (@Leko3) July 14, 2021

SABC News report on destruction of Value Logistics

Now read: Mustek building burned to the ground
The Automobile Association (AA) said the weaker Rand and higher oil price would result in much higher fuel prices in South Africa.

Fuel prices were already trending higher before the widespread looting and unrest of the past few day, the AA said.

But now, the daily Rand/US dollar exchange rate has spiked from R14.35 to nearly R14.80 since 12 June.

South Africa imports a lot of fuel, which will inevitably cost more in Rand terms. Meanwhile, international oil prices remain on the advance, adding further pressure.

The mid-month data indicates that petrol is set for an increase of 87 cents a litre, diesel 58 cents, and illuminating paraffin 56 cents. The AA expects little respite before month-end.

The AA said that while the supply of fuel will not push the prices of fuels higher, the weakening Rand resulting from the riots will play a major role as the exchange rate is a key indicator for the local fuel price.

In a related development, South African Petroleum Refiners (SAPREF), which runs a massive refinery complex in Durban supplying 35% of South Africas refined fuel, has declared force majeure.

SAPREFs declaration of force majeure means that events beyond its control  the recent lawlessness  has forced it to shut down the refinery, the AA said.

It warned that if an operational refinery were to be overrun by criminals, surrounding areas would be at great risk.

The Association advised motorists to avoid unnecessary journeys and to buy no more fuel than necessary, to preserve current stocks for essential and emergency services.

Now read: Food and fuel shortages hit parts of South Africa
South Africa will significantly ramp up the number of soldiers deployed to help quell riots following days of looting and destruction of businesses, after the government said a military presence may be helping to ease the violence.

Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula told lawmakers that troops in the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng will be boosted to 25,000 from about 5,000 now, following a discussion between the government and opposition parties.

We are seeing less incidence of violence and looting reported, acting Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni had earlier told reporters in Pretoria, the capital. More than 1,700 people have been arrested, she said.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the army announced that all of its reserve members were to report for duty at first light on 15 July.

Protests erupted on July 10 after former President Jacob Zuma was incarcerated for defying a court order to testify before a graft inquiry and degenerated into a free-for-all in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, two of the countrys main economic hubs. At least 72 people have been killed, making the uprising the deadliest since apartheid ended in 1994.

Marauding mobs have ransacked hundreds of businesses and destroyed telecommunications towers and other infrastructure, while transport networks and a program to vaccinate people against the coronavirus have been disrupted. The government logged 208 separate incidents of violence overnight Tuesday.

Business Leadership South Africa, one of the main business lobby groups, estimates that damages amount to more than 5 billion rand ($343 million) and counting for the retail industry alone. More than 200 malls were targeted, over 800 stores were looted and 100 were completely burnt, its Chief Executive Officer Busi Mavuso said in an emailed reply to questions.

It will take 2 to 3 years to recover the infrastructure lost here, Colin Coleman, former chairman of Goldman Sachs Group Inc. in Sub-Saharan Africa said in an interview to Bloomberg TV. To restock these centers will take 10 weeks and we are going to have severe shortages for some time.

Ntshavheni urged people not to resort to panic buying because there is enough food for everyone, and said the security agencies will escort vehicles carrying goods from KwaZulu-Natals Durban port, the countrys largest, to destinations inland to safeguard supply chains. She described the violence as economic sabotage.

We are not at liberty to announce who are behind it, she said. If we do so we will jeopardize the investigation and possible prosecution of people.

Some business groups have urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to give the police and army additional powers to end the violence, fearing that communities and private militias will mete out their own form of justice. Video footage published on Johannesburg-based radio station Kaya 959s website showed private security guards firing live ammunition at a mob on Tuesday.

While the government has shied away from declaring a state of emergency  a measure the apartheid regime used to counter opposition to White-minority rule, Ntshavheni said it could review its stance depending on how the situation evolves.

Ramaphosas office said hed consulted with the leaders of religious groups, business and political parties on how best to restore stability.

The destruction witnessed by the nation hurt all South Africans, not only those in the affected areas, and it hurt the poor, the elderly and the vulnerable the most, the presidents office cited him as saying. Several areas of the country may soon be running short of basic provisions following the extensive disruption of food, fuel and medicine supply chains.

The turmoil has exacerbated economic hardship caused by the coronavirus and associated lockdowns, and rattled the financial markets. Economists from accounting firm PwC estimate that the upheaval could shave 0.4 of a percentage point from the nations gross domestic product.

The rand steadied on Wednesday after plunging to the weakest level since April a day earlier. The currency was 1.8% stronger at 14.47 per dollar as of 8:25 p.m. in Johannesburg. A foreign exit from South African stocks has gathered pace, with non-residents selling 4 billion rand of local equities on Tuesday, the largest outflows since November.

Paper producer Sappi Ltd., building supplies company Cashbuild Ltd. and state port and freight rail operator Transnet SOC Ltd. have joined a long list of firms whose operations have been interrupted. Hapag Lloyd AG told customers that its shutting some of its container-shipping facilities.

Retailer Mr Price Group Ltd. said 109 of its stores were entirely looted, and another 539 were closed, while fast-food restaurant operator Famous Brands Ltd. said 99 stores have been damaged and non-operational.

Now read: Major food shortages expected in South Africa
I was advised recently by a fellow resistor that Pacaso Homes is advertising to hire prophets in Northern California in an effort to convince residents and local government of the benefits to us all of the fractional ownership of our homes.

Well, of course thats not the job title, but it is the job description. This employee ...will be responsible for evangelizing the power of Pacaso to support a more sustainable housing market and economy among local government, community and business leaders.

In part, ...will be evaluated on your ability to ... recruit local and vocal validators, supporters, and business partners, and advocate for Pacaso when needed.

Evangelize huh? Guy Kawasaki who, himself, was an evangelist for Apple, wrote about how to evangelize a product. You should look him up and read some of the ways in which evangelists operate. His step by step advice for evangelists includes marketing tactics like Make it great. It's very hard to evangelize crap. Position it as a cause .... Love the cause. ... Localize the pitch. ... Look for agnostics, ignore atheists. ....
Howell Mountain vintner Randy Dunn on Tuesday sent an email to the county urging supervisors to remember this offer. Rogersons helicopters represent some of the best firefighting helicopters in the United States, he said.

If you must go out and get bids for other copters, make sure that the bidders are offering copters of equal or greater capabilities, he wrote.

Rex Stults of Napa Valley Vintners said the wine industry alone suffered $2 billion in losses from recent fires. In that context, $2 million for a local firefighting helicopter isnt that much.

Again, just looking at every option, leaving no stone unturned in terms of what can we do to put ourselves in a better place than we are right now, he told supervisors on Tuesday. So thanks for this conversation.

County Supervisor Ryan Gregory expressed a similar view.

Wed sort of want to kick ourselves a little bit if we spent that money and (the helicopter) went unused, Gregory said. But I think wed kick ourselves a lot harder if we something happened and we didnt have that available and things got out of control.

Belyea stressed the helicopter would be available only for daytime operations.
MONTEREY, Calif. (AP)  Two women died when their small plane crashed into an empty home in a luxury gated community in the hills of Northern California, relatives said Wednesday.

Mary Ellen Carlin of Pacific Grove was flying the plane Tuesday, and Alice Diane Emig of Rancho Cordova and her dog, Toby, were on board, Emig's family told Monterey Bay-area news station KSBW-TV.

The twin-engine Cessna 421 crashed into the home in the gated community about 5 miles (8 kilometers) from the city of Monterey shortly after departing from Monterey Regional Airport, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

The crash sparked a fire in the house that spread to nearby bushes, but crews got it under control Tuesday.

Carlin, the owner of the plane and a flight instructor, was planning to fly Emig from Monterey to Mather in the Sacramento area, family told the TV station.

Relatives said deputies told them no one survived the crash.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  Los Angeles County leaders are moving forward with a plan to return prime beachfront property to descendants of a Black couple who built a resort for African Americans but were stripped of the land by local city officials a century ago.

The Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Tuesday to pursue an action plan created by the county chief executives office on returning the land to the descendants of Willa and Charles Bruce once the state allows it.

The county would be a sponsor of state legislation that is needed to enable the transfer.

We are on an important road to set a precedent that could be replicated across the country as we work to put actions behind our commitment to an anti-racist agenda and anti-racist county, Supervisor Holly Mitchell said. We cannot achieve racial equity until we confront our past and make it right.

The plan discusses transferring the land, assessing the propertys worth, determining who the legal heirs are and limiting the property tax burden on the family, the Southern California News Group reported Wednesday. More details are expected later this year.
LAS VEGAS (AP)  Federal law enforcement officials said Wednesday that they dismantled a key international cocaine and money-laundering hub in an ongoing investigation that began six years ago in Las Vegas and has involved more than 30 other countries.

The top federal prosecutor and the FBI chief in Las Vegas told reporters that the probe became public after the recent arrests of six people in Nevada, Arizona, California and Washington state on conspiracy, drug and money-laundering charges.

Acting U.S. Attorney Christopher Chiou and Aaron Rouse, special agent in charge of the Las Vegas office, were flanked by representatives of law enforcement agencies in Australia, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Israel, Romania and United Kingdom.

Rouse said the case did not arise from a casino-related investigation.

The FBI chief said millions of dollars were involved, but he wouldnt specify an amount.

He characterized the conspiracy as a cog in a drugs-and-money operation supporting trans-national criminal organizations that he said will be crippled by the six arrests and dozens of others in other places in the six-year operation dubbed Operation Money Maker. Rouse declined to provide exact numbers, places or details of those cases.
However, do these and other flaws, such as his unilateral ban on capital punishment after voters specifically refused to end it, warrant a recall election that will cost more than $200 million? Since Newsom would be seeking reelection anyway just a year later, it seems to waste money better spent on Californias many serious issues.

Moreover, the recall campaign seems destined to fail, given Newsoms relatively strong position in polling of voters, which is why he and the Legislature changed the rules for an earlier election. They didnt want to risk that unforeseen events might damage him were the election to be held in October or November.

If recall proponents  Republicans, mostly  were to have a fighting chance of success, they would need to coalesce behind one well-known, well-financed candidate to succeed Newsom, as demonstrated by Californias first and only gubernatorial recall, that of Gray Davis in 2003.

Davis, who was more unpopular than Newsom is now, probably would have survived the recall had movie star Arnold Schwarzenegger not offered himself as a replacement. There were 135 would-be replacements on the 2003 ballot and were likely to have nearly 100 this year, but none has anywhere close to Schwarzeneggers drawing power.
Jero and their two larger-than-life Irish wolfhounds greeted us and introduced us to the family, his mother, Ceci, and sisters, Ana and Ximena. We proceeded to the back porch, which provides a breathtaking view of the vineyards.

We next explored the property with Jero at the wheel, climbing the roads in their agile off-road vehicle.

The tour included trails lined with various native vegetation, rows of manicured vines and a brief reservoir pit stop. Beside the water, while enjoying a sip of wine we were greeted by their friendly horses who curiously made their way into the conversation.

We love the outdoors and being in touch with nature, Jero explained. We run daily, hike and ride the horses across the property, exploring every corner.

After the fascinating drive, we got back to the house where Xavier awaited and greeted us with a sip of tequila as he proudly gave us a brief history of his quest for this land.

Xavier, a successful entrepreneur, was born in Mexico where he developed a love for wine and the outdoors. He set his sights on Napa where he envisioned his dream of owning a vineyard. The seven-year quest culminated when he found this perfect spot.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan turned Israel from ally into adversary, friend to foe, partner on the international stage to convenient whipping boy in order to gain political points domestically and tumultuous applause in the Muslim world, according to The Jerusalem Post comment.

Already in 2009, Israels ambassador at the time, Gabby Levy, was quoted in a Wikileaks cable as saying that Erdogan was a fundamentalist who hates us religiously.

On Monday evening, that same Erdogan called new Israeli President Isaac Herzog with a simple message: Lets start afresh.

Lovely sentiment, though considering Erdogans track record, its rather difficult not to question his sincerity.

In May, following riots on the Temple Mount, the Turkish president had this to say about Israel: Israel, the cruel terrorist state, attacks the Muslims in Jerusalem.

Yet, on Monday, his office put out a statement of his call with Herzog that said the Turkish president underscored that Turkey-Israel relations were of great importance in terms of security and stability in the Middle East, and that there was a great potential for cooperation between the two countries in various areas.

The very next day, however, his office put out another statement, less conciliatory, slamming Israel for house demolitions and saying we condemn Israels unlawful and inhumane practices and hereby reiterate our support for the judicial process to hold Israel accountable for its crimes in the occupied territories.

Israel knows Erdogan well, and what it has come to know after 18 long years is a staunchly anti-Israel Islamist who consistently tries to inflame the Muslim world against the Jewish state, often peddling in antisemitic rhetoric to do so.

He is a leader with neo-Ottoman fantasies.

Israel knows how Erdogans Turkey has hosted an office of Hamas, where attacks against Israelis have been planned. It knows about the money laundering for Hamas coming out of Turkey, as well as the provision of passports for members of the terror organization.

It knows about Turkish efforts to scuttle an Israeli-Cypriot-Greek natural gas pipeline; about the way it constantly tries to undermine Israel in various international forums; and about its occasional support for Iran (when it suits its interests).

And those are just some of the actions Ankara has taken against Israel. There are also the myriad actions it has taken against others in the regionfrom the Kurds to the Egyptians to the Cypriots and Greeksthat Jerusalem finds loathsome.

But when Erdogan calls and whispers sweet nothings, () Israel must harbor no illusions about who it is dealing with, the comment added, in particular.
Miami Mayor Francis Suarez suggested that the US should explore the option of air strikes against Cuba, Business Insider reported.

"What should be contemplated right now is a coalition of potential military action in Cuba," Suarez, a Republican, said in comments on Fox News. Suarez, whose father was born in Cuba and was formerly mayor of Miami, pointed to US interventions in Panama and Kosovo as potential models to follow.

When asked if he was calling for air strikes in Cuba, Suarez said, "What I'm suggesting is that option is one that has to be explored, and one that cannot be just simply discarded."

Suarez's remarks came after Cuba on Sunday saw the largest anti-government protests in years, with thousands demonstrating against a lack of freedoms and a growing economic crisis under Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel and the Communist regime. South Florida has the largest population of Cuban Americans in the country, and Miami in recent days has seen demonstrations in solidarity with the anti-government protestors in Cuba.

Also, Suarez defended the US embargo on Cuba, saying: "I don't think the embargo is cruel at all. I think the Cuban people aren't asking for a lifting of the embargo. They're going out on the streets every single day talking about the failure of the communist regime to provide for its people ... It has failed for six decades."
For some, the thought of computers gaining the ability to see and make decisions may induce Black Mirror-style nightmares. But for technologists like Tigran and Vahan Petrosyan, brothers from Armenia, its the stuff of PhDs, Forbes reported.

While one brother was working in Switzerland and the other in Sweden, they realized they had the same pain pointthe laborious process of capturing and labeling the data necessary to train machines to use computer vision.

Then, a breakthrough: Vahan devised an algorithm that makes it possible to automate parts of the process and speed it up ten times and the brothers knew they were on to something.

After dropping out of their respective programs, the Petrosyans launched software business SuperAnnotate last year to share the tech with others. It allows us to create larger datasets, Tigran, now the startups CEO, says. We also help companies manage those datasets, because the quality usually suffers when you are doing this at scale.

SuperAnnotate covers a substantial part of a computer vision projects life cycle, Tigran adds, helping companies compile, organize and annotate their data. Thousands of people are using the tools today, SuperAnnotate claims, with revenue recently tripling quarter to quarter.

The SaaS startup raised a $14.5 million Series A round.

TJ Nahigian, a cofounder and managing partner at Base10 Partners, says his team met SuperAnnotate at its beginnings, when Nahigian judged a pitch competition in Armenia that the brothers won.

Base10 was looking to start investing in computer vision and when they realized that many of the startups they talked to were already using SuperAnnotate, the choice became clear. This is a trend we have been excited about for a long time and it wasnt until recently that it became technically possible because of companies like SuperAnnotate, Nahigian says.

According to Petrosyan, one of the startups main goals is to make computer vision accessible to non-technical people. Everyone with a computer and a smart camera can set up their system anywhere they want and have the right infrastructure to build that, he says. We want to be that core infrastructure.
7 injured, including children, after major road accident near Armenia town bridge

World oil prices falling

France ambassador to Armenia makes social media post in Armenian

Rare stone discovered outlining ancient Rome city limits

New nanoparticle accurately diagnoses cancer through simple urine test

World's largest planetarium opens in China

Terrible road accident casualty is Samvel Avetyan who miraculously had survived Artsakh war

Zangeneh: OPEC+ can't ignore Iran's return

Charles Michel: EU can help with demarcation of Armenia-Azerbaijan border at level of experts

Gunshots heard in central Yerevan again

Aliyev continues to 'feed' Europe with talks about peace

Residents of Armenia's Kajaran launch petition demanding the release of their mayor

German Chancellor visits one of the regions most affected by flooding

Magnitude 5.7 quake hits Iran's Fars Province

Armenia Special Investigation Service issues statement on Goris mayor Arush Arushanyan

Funeral of Karabakh hero Artur Aghasyan held in Martuni

Armenia's newly elected parliament to hold first session on July 26

Armenia acting PM hosts CEO of Flagship Pioneering and Moderna Therapeutics Noubar Afeyan

37-year-old citizen of Armenia parks car and jumps off bridge

Armenian analyst on Turkish-Azerbaijani tandem's pressure on Armenia and Russia's and Turkey's presence

168.am reports on the judges of Armenia Constitutional Court who supported or were against decision on elections

5.1 magnitude earthquake hits California's north coast

Armenian human rights activist on the opposition and the Constitutional Court's decision on snap elections

Araghchi: Vienna talks have to wait until next Iranian government takes charge

Florida man hits live alligator and tries to throw it onto buildings roof

132 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

Three-headed baby born in India

Opposition party to appeal Armenia Constitutional Court's decision on snap elections in ECHR

Armenia Constitutional Court upholds Central Electoral Commission decision on snap parliamentary election results

One nation, 3 states: Azerbaijan delegation in Northern Cyprus for first time

Assad inauguration held in Syria

POWs who returned to Armenia from Azerbaijan are questioned

Two more members of opposition Armenia bloc apprehended

Pashinyan: Strengthening the Armenia southern regions resistance is one of EU 2.6bn assistance programs

Armenia acting PM: We are ready to start negotiations according to OSCE Minsk Groups co-chairs statement

Germany floods death toll rises to more than 130

Charles Michel: Useful to be able to withdraw Armenian, Azerbaijani armed forces from disputed territories

Adjacent areas closed off before European Council President leaves Armenia government building

Armenia Police: 16 people apprehended today from outside government building

Acting premier: Azerbaijan refuses to provide corridor to Armenia

Pashinyan: Armenia-EU contacts have never been so intense

Netherlands Armenian organizations demand explanation from their MFA over Dutch ambassador's visit to Shushi

Tight surveillance outside Armenia government building, several people apprehended

Five new cases of coronavirus reported in Karabakh

European Council President visits Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan

911 motorcycles to serve on Yerevan streets

Police apprehend opposition Armenia bloc member

Armenia President condoles with Germany colleague

Taliban stepping up attacks in Afghanistan, says US intelligence

187 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

Captain Artur Aghasyan posthumously awarded highest title of Hero of Artsakh

California physician charged with selling fake Covid immunization pellets

Biden to meet with Iraq PM

Armenia citizens can enter Georgia through 2 checkpoints

Armenia soldier, 20, dies

Newspaper: Armenia opposition blocs holding their breath awaiting Constitutional Court decision of today

Newspaper: Armenia ex-President Kocharyan is Yerevan mayor Marutyan's 'lifebuoy'

Eiffel Tower reopens to visitors after nearly 9 months

'Bloodthirsty vampire' arrested in Kenya

There are 21615 people or 5,448 families displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh

Lavrov says US mission in Afghanistan failed

Azeri parliamentary group in occupied Northern Cyprus to commemorate 47th anniversary of Turkish troops' landing

Vietnam calls on Washington to lift Cuba embargo

Germany declares regime of military catastrophe due to flooding

Armenia Ambassador, Russia Deputy FM discuss provision of international humanitarian aid to Karabakh

Sputnik Armenia: 2 missing Armenian servicemen find themselves in territory under control of Azerbaijan Armed Forces

Karabakh Ombudsman: People of Artsakh have never lived and can never live in peace with Azerbaijan

Remains of former Armenian footballer found

Armenia acting PM introduced to businessman's newly opened brandy factory

Armenia ex-deputy MOD: If Pashinyan is still in power after November 9, 2020, it means he has unfinished business

Armenia Chamber of Advocates holds 3rd meeting to provide legal aid to Armenian captives in Azerbaijan

European Council President Charles Michel arrives in Armenia

Yerevan court to announce decision on pre-trial measure against Sisian mayor tomorrow

Alexander Lapshin on Yerkir.am's article about his talks with journalist, Armenia acting PM and ex-spokesperson

Young members of ARF-D protesting against EU representative's visit to Armenia

Lukashevich at OSCE: Assistance in future solution to Nagorno-Karabakh issue in South Caucasus is required

Digest: Azerbaijan opens fire near Armenia border, EU to lift restrictions for Armenian citizens?

Opposition 'Armenia' bloc member: Law-enforcement authorities need to explore disclosure of Lapshin-Karapetyan talk

Armenia acting PM receives Deputy Chief of General Staff of Russia Armed Forces

Armenias Karahunj village head testified against Goris city mayor, says lawyer

Armenian National Committee addresses letter to Belgian FM condemning Ambassadors visit to Shushi

Dollar goes down again Armenia

Azerbaijan starts construction of tunnels in Karabakh occupied territories

Armenia Prosecutor General's Office charges head of Lori Province's Jrashen village with abuse of official powers

Armenia ambassador to Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore is recalled

At least 70 people die in Germany and Belgium due to floods

Armenia ambassador to US to now serve as envoy to UK

France and US urge Lebanese politicians to form cabinet

Armenia funeral commission set up in connection with Djivan Gasparyan's passing

Mayor of Armenias Goris to be arrested

European Council chief's Armenia visit agenda is announced

Beijing urges WHO to investigate theory that COVID-19 was imported to Wuhan

2022 US federal budget envisages $950K for Glendale Armenian museum, says Congressman Schiff

Condition of newborn left at Yerevan building entrance continues to stabilize

Azerbaijan setting up new military unit in occupied Aghdam of Artsakh

1,200 apartments to be built in capital Stepanakert, 20 new districts to be constructed in Karabakh villages

Reuters photojournalist killed in Afghanistan

Armenia ex-President Kocharyan: Fear, uncertainty not respected in international relations

About 20,000 translators from Afghanistan in US apply for evacuation

MOD: Azerbaijan army opened fire on Armenia positions
YEREVAN.  In the snap [parliamentary] elections [on June 20], the [ruling] Civil Contract Party received a mandate from the citizens to open a peaceful era for Armenia and Artsakh [(Nagorno-Karabakh)]. Acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this at Thursdays Cabinet meeting of the interim government of Armenia.

"This mandate presupposes the creation of a favorable environment around our country, the opening of regional communications, the establishment of regional stability and lasting peace.

After the snap NA [(National Assembly)] elections, however, what we had predicted happened and is happening, saying that there is a high probability that Azerbaijan, in spite of the peace-loving statements made in the international arena, will do everything to hinder peace in the region, and [it] will do this with a tactic that is also predictable: showing that Armenia or Artsakh are supposedly against peace, against the [border] delimitation and demarcation processes, and against this background, will create false justifications for building an aggressive policy, the manifestations of which we see in recent days; but we have seen that in recent months as well.

In particular, the working groupworking at the level of deputy prime ministers of Russia, Armenia, and Azerbaijanis carrying out quite constructive and effective work on the opening of regional communications. And Azerbaijan's incomprehensible statements about the so-called 'Zangezur Corridor' have nothing to do with the work done by the working group and, more importantly, with the content of the January 11 trilateral statement in Moscow, which reveals what the 9th point of the November 9 trilateral statement means and how it shall be implemented.

My interpretation is unequivocal: Azerbaijan is making statements about the corridor in order to disrupt the work of the trilateral working group and not to permit the opening of regional communications. Why? Because Azerbaijan's goal is to continue its about-30-year policy of blockade of Armenia.

But we will continue the workwithout hesitationat trilateral working group to break the blockade of Armenia, and with the support of Russia and our international partners, we will achieve the opening of regional communications; that is, the unblocking of Armenia," Pashinyan added.
The Taliban have approached the Afghan government with a three-month ceasefire proposal, the Afghan government delegation at negotiations with the Taliban in Doha (Qatar) Nader Naderi noted.

In return, he said, they demand the release of the previously captured 7,000 militants of the movement, TASS reported.

The Taliban proposed a three-month truce but demanded that the Afghan government release 7,000 prisoners from among their supporters, the Pajhwok news agency quoted Naderi as saying at a press conference in Kabul.

According to him, this is a serious demand, there is a release of 5,000 Taliban from prison that did not improve the situation and even led to an escalation.

The press conference was held ahead of a meeting in Kabul on Thursday for a delegation of 11 Afghan politicians to travel to Doha for talks. These consultations, which have been ongoing since September last year, have been interrupted several times and recently resumed. So far, they are at the level of experts, including Naderi. From the outset, Doha failed to move beyond the substantive discussion of the agenda for future peace talks. Discussions so far are considered preliminary.
YEREVAN.  Azerbaijan is trying to portray that Armenia is against and hinders the border delimitation and demarcation work. Acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this at Thursdays Cabinet meeting of the interim government of Armenia.

"The reality is exactly the opposite. It is Azerbaijan that is against the delimitation and demarcation work because it has brought obviously falsified maps to the arena, trying to substantiate the presence of its armed forces in a number of parts () of the sovereign territory of the Republic of Armenia," Pashinyan added.

Also, he stressed: "Both the international community and Armenia have clearly expressed their position on this issue: withdrawal of Azerbaijani forces from the given territories, border line, and the Armenian and Azerbaijani armed forces mirror withdrawal to the permanent deployment areas, deployment of Russian border guards or international observers on the border line, and preparation and startunder international auspicesof [border] demarcation and delimitation works.

This proposal of ours remains valid. We are working with our partners, particularly our Russian partners, in this regard, whereas Azerbaijan has not responded to this proposal in any way.

Azerbaijan is trying to create the impression that Armenia is against peace and the peace treaty. But Armenia has repeatedly publicly welcomed the April 13 statement of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs ()."

Pashinyan reminded that there are three precepts for the settlement of the Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) conflict: self-determination of peoples, exclusion of the use of force or threat of using force, and territorial integrity.

This statement by the Co-Chairs is a proposal for a roadmap for the establishment of peace in the region, and Armenia has welcomed this statement. Armenia is ready to resume the process of peaceful settlementin the format and content noted in the Co-Chairs' statementof the Karabakh conflict.

I believe Azerbaijan's leadership would do well to heed the calls of international mediators instead of destructive actions and statements, and also express a clear position on the Co-Chairs' statement," Nikol Pashinyan said.
Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte has sent a congratulatory message to acting Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan on his victory in the snap parliamentary elections held in Armenia. The congratulatory message particularly reads as follows:

The holding of free and competitive parliamentary elections attests to Armenias commitment to continuing on a democratic path after the velvet revolution. The reforms and democratic transformations in Armenia havent gone unnoticed. I sincerely hope you will continue to implement those major reforms, in spite of the unfavorable security environment.

With the hope for ongoing cooperation, I express confidence that together we will be able to successfully contribute to the deepening of the close partnership between Armenia and the Netherlands. The Netherlands will strengthen economic cooperation, particularly in agriculture and the IT sector.

We attach great importance to our partnership within the scope of the EU-Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement, and I anticipate an effective summit of the Eastern Partnership at the end of this year. I also highly appreciate our close cooperation within the framework of the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

Unfortunately, we had to postpone your planned visit to the Netherlands in April of this year due to the pandemic in both of our countries. I sincerely hope the year 2022 will be more favorable in this regard, and I look forward to hosting you in the Netherlands with pleasure to mark the successes of our diplomatic relations of the past thirty years. I wish you success in overcoming the challenges facing Armenia and for the benefit of the Armenian people.
Military Prosecutor of Armenia, Deputy Prosecutor General Vahe Harutyunyan today paid a regular visit to the central recruitment station of the Ministry of Defense of Armenia along with Head of the Conscription and Mobilization Service at the Ministry of Defense Armen Avtandilyan in order to learn about the organizing of conscription.

The Military Prosecutor personally followed the drawing and observed the procedure and conditions for holding the drawing and attached importance to the fact that the conscripts have no concerns.

Harutyunyan also witnessed the organizing of medical checkups held at the central recruitment station and was told that there are cases of returning conscripts from the central recruitment station for double checkups.

Based on the course of the drawing and medical checkups and the recommendations, the Military Prosecutor gave instructions to raise the level of organization of conscription.

At the end of the visit, Harutyunyan wished the conscripts a good service and assured that the conscripts proper service and protection of their rights will be in the focus of the Military Prosecutors Office.
At this moment, Chairman of the State Revenue Committee of Armenia Eduard Hovhannisyan is in his office and is giving instructions, I dont have such information. This is what Spokesperson of the State Revenue Committee Lusine Mkrtchyan told Armenian News-NEWS.am, touching upon the news according to which Hovhannisyan has resigned.

If we receive such news, we will post it on our official website properly and in a timely manner, she added.

The Government of Armenia told Armenian News-NEWS.am that it hasnt received such an application.

Hraparak.am reported that, based on its information, Chairman of the State Revenue Committee Eduard Hovhannisyan has submitted his resignation letter. Hraparak.am wrote the following: In particular, we were told that Hovhannnisyan learned about his dismissal before the government session this morning. Basically, it came as a surprise. After the session, he went to the State Revenue committee, gathered the employees, held a meeting and announced his resignation. We were told that he has already submitted his resignation letter to Nikol Pashinyan [acting Prime Minister of Armenia]. There were people who tried to console him, telling him to not take it too hard and that he will have another position.
By the decree of President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian, architect Sashur Kalashyan was recently awarded the Anania Shirakatsi Medal for his remarkable contributions to the development of architecture and urban development.

President Armen Sarkissian today hosted the merited architect and granted the high state award to him. Its a great honor for me to grant this medal to you on behalf of our people and state because you have made tremendous contributions to Armenian culture and architecture. The architecture that you have presented and advocated throughout your life is very harmonious with Armenian national architecture. What you have done is of tremendous value, he said.

Sashur Kalashyan expressed gratitude for the appreciation and for valuing his past career.

Sarkissian and Kalashyan touched upon the preservation of Armenian historical and cultural heritage, including architectural monuments, as well as the importance of care for them.

Merited architect Sashur Kalashyan is one of the architects of the Tsitsernakaberd Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex and the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute in Yerevan. He has designed and built the Komayri State Historical-Architectural Reserve-Museum, other museums, a center for childrens creations, the puppet theater, etc.
Acting Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan today received Co-Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Armenian Assembly of America Anthony Parsamian and Armenia Assembly of America Country Director Arpi Vartanian, as reported the Office of the acting Prime Minister.

Pashinyan greeted the guests and stated the following: Armenia went through a rather difficult period, and I believe we have reached a new milestone due to not only the events that took place in Armenia and Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), but also the events that took place abroad and that have changed or transformed the agendas. This is also in the context of the activities of the Armenian Assembly of America and the US Presidents recognition of the Armenian Genocide which is, nevertheless, a new reality and a new milestone.

I also believe that, in this context, it is important to compare our notions about how the Armenia-Diaspora relations need to be in this new period and what the expectations are. This meeting and similar meetings are very important in order to compare the notions and perceptions. I am glad that we have an opportunity to discuss all this today.

Parsamian expressed gratitude to Nikol Pashinyan for the reception and stated the following: Mr. Prime Minister, thank you for receiving us. First of all, we express condolences to the country and you. We visited Yerablur Military Pantheon and the tombs of the victims. The Armenian Assembly of America shares the pain for the losses since it is directly linked to the Assembly as well. We have come to congratulate you on the end of the elections and meet with you and the members of the new Cabinet. As Armenian Americans, we wish Armenia the best. We will work and guarantee our support to Armenia. We are also working with your Office.

I must say that the Biden administration has a positive attitude towards the Armenian Assembly of America. We will continue to make efforts for deepening of Armenia-US cooperation and strengthening of Armenias role in the region.

Issues related to Armenia-Diaspora relations and the advancement of the pan-Armenian agenda were discussed during the meeting.
The Ministry of Defense of Armenia today hosted Armenian-Italian military-political consultations held by the delegations led by Head of the General Department for Defense Policy and International Cooperation at the Ministry of Defense and Head of the International Relations Office of the Italian General Staff, Brigadier General David Morpurgo.

As reported the official website of the Ministry of Defense, issues related to regional security and international developments, as well as the cooperation between the Ministries of Defense of Armenia and Italy were discussed during the meeting.

It was decided to resume the conduct of measures for the cooperation that was interrupted last year, regardless of the restrictions due to the coronavirus and in observance of the health norms.

Based on the reached agreements, Armenia and Italy signed a military cooperation plan for the year 2021 that envisages the implementation of 11 actions in Armenia and Italy during the second semester of this year. The actions will be exchange of experience, personnel preparedness and continuation of military-political consultations.
The sole purpose of arresting the heads of different communities of Syunik Province who organized the self-defense of Syunik Province during the war is to weaken resistance in Syunik Province. This is what member of the opposition Armenia bloc Ishkhan Saghatelyan told reporters in front of the Special Investigation Service today.

Syunik Province is being attacked by Baku and Yerevan, and arresting the heads of communities is political persecution. There are heads of other communities who are also being repressed and resigning and against whom cases are being launched. This is the image of the current authorities, he added.

Saghatelyan also said Armenia bloc will use all the possible resources to fight against the incumbent authorities.

We have a group of law-enforcement officers, and our objective is to show the real image of these authorities for those who still dont understand who these authorities really are. We will also inform international organizations about all these unlawful acts, he said.

The court is examining the motion of the Special Investigation Service to arrest Mayor of Goris Arush Arushanyan, who is charged with ensuring maximum votes in favor of Armenia bloc and giving a bribe to record the desired result during the elections.
US Senate passes bill to ban imports from Xinjiang

Beijing asserts that facilities such as these are vocational training camps. File photo: AFP

The US Senate passed legislation on Wednesday to ban the import of products from China's Xinjiang region, the latest effort in Washington to punish Beijing for what US officials say is an ongoing genocide against Uighurs and other Muslim groups.



The Uighur Forced Labour Prevention Act would create a "rebuttable presumption" assuming goods manufactured in Xinjiang are made with forced labour and therefore banned under the 1930 Tariff Act, unless otherwise certified by US authorities.



Passed by unanimous consent, the bipartisan measure would shift the burden of proof to importers. The current rule bans goods if there is reasonable evidence of forced labour.



The bill must also pass the House of Representatives before it can be sent to the White House for President Joe Biden to sign into law. It was not immediately clear when that might take place.



Republican Senator Marco Rubio, who introduced the legislation with Democrat Jeff Merkley, called on the House to act quickly.



"We will not turn a blind eye to the CCP's ongoing crimes against humanity, and we will not allow corporations a free pass to profit from those horrific abuses," Rubio said in a statement.



"No American corporation should profit from these abuses. No American consumers should be inadvertently purchasing products from slave labour," Merkley said.



Democratic and Republican aides said they expected the measure would get strong support in the House, noting the House approved a similar measure nearly unanimously last year.



The bill would go beyond steps already taken to secure US supply chains in the face of allegations of rights abuses in China, including existing bans on Xinjiang tomatoes, cotton and some solar products.



The Biden administration has increased sanctions, and on Tuesday issued an advisory warning businesses they could be in violation of US law if operations are linked even indirectly to surveillance networks in Xinjiang.



Rights groups, researchers, former residents and some Western lawmakers and officials say Xinjiang authorities have facilitated forced labour by detaining around a million Uighurs and other primarily Muslim minorities since 2016. (Reuters)
'Vaccinated helpers may arrive from next month'

'Vaccinated helpers may arrive from next month'

Relief may be on the way for Hong Kong families struggling to hire foreign domestic workers, as authorities are reportedly ironing out a plan to allow fully vaccinated helpers to come to the SAR to work  as early as next month.



Thats according to the chairman of the Hong Kong Union of Employment Agencies, Thomas Chan, who told an RTHK radio show on Thursday that he was informed of the latest developments by the Philippine Consulate General.



Chan said out of around 5,000 domestic helpers stuck in the Philippines and Indonesia due to a ban on flights, around 20 to 30 percent of them have taken one dose of a Covid vaccine, while less than 10 percent are fully inoculated.



"We estimate that it will be at least late July or even early August for people to have taken both doses. If the government really eases [the entry ban], I think it will be at least mid-August [when they get here], because they still have to deal with some travel paperwork," he said.



The agency representative added that Indonesian authorities are also highly supportive of Hong Kongs potential policy change, saying they would try and provide vaccinations for those intending to work in the SAR.



Hong Kong has seen an acute shortage of foreign domestic helpers since officials suspended flights from the Philippines and Indonesia in April and June, respectively.



Chan noted that local families are paying more to attract helpers, who are now getting an average monthly pay of between HK$5,500 and HK$6,500.



He added that some workers are also demanding better work conditions and rejecting offers that require them to take care of children or the elderly.
Deal to Further Woven Alphas Automated Mapping Platform (AMP) Initiative

TOKYO -- (BUSINESS WIRE) --

Woven Planet Holdings, Inc. (Woven Planet), a subsidiary of the Toyota Motor Corporation, announced the acquisition of CARMERA, Inc. (CARMERA), a U.S.-based spatial AI company, which specializes in bringing next-generation road intelligence to automated mobility at scale. This is the second major deal for Woven Planet in North America, following the April 2021 announcement to acquire Level 5, the self-driving division of Lyft.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210714005892/en/

Once the deal is closed, the CARMERA team will report into the Automated Mapping Platform (AMP) organization of Woven Alpha, Inc. (Woven Alpha). Woven Alpha focuses on exploring new strategic areas for business expansion and incubates several innovative projects such as Woven City and Arene, which is Woven Planets open software platform. AMP is a connected crowdsourced software platform that supports the creation, development and distribution of high definition (HD) mapsa key enabler for smart and safe automated mobility.

The Woven Alpha team plans to develop AMP to become the most globally comprehensive road and lane network HD map platform, enabling high-precision localization support to automated vehicles. The acquisition of CARMERA will accelerate AMPs shift from the R&D stage to the next phase of commercialization by bolstering the platforms engineering team with top experts in the development of HD maps. In addition, it will provide access to CARMERAs sophisticated map update, change management and IoT sensing technology.

Together, the teams will tap into CARMERAs ability to successfully update HD maps from crowdsourced, camera-based inputsa significantly cheaper and faster approach than traditional methods. This will strengthen AMPs ability to serve a comprehensive set of road classes and features, reflecting changes in lane markings, traffic signals, signs and more in near real-time, and support its future multi-regional commercial launch.

CARMERA will join Woven Planet Group as a wholly-owned subsidiary, expanding the companys footprint beyond its Tokyo headquarters by adding New York and Seattle offices to its planned offices in Silicon Valley and London.

Comment from Mandali Khalesi, Vice President of Automated Driving Strategy and Mapping, Woven Planet:

AMP has been a key project of Woven Planet since its foundation, helping support its vision of Mobility to Love, Safety to Live. Weve been progressing steadily in bringing safe automated mobility to the passenger and commercial vehicle segments, such as our recent announcements with Isuzu Motors Limited and Hino Motors, Ltd., and with Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation. Im really excited to welcome CARMERA to Woven Planet. With CARMERA joining the team, well be able to hit the accelerator. CARMERAs software stack, which is focused on real-time HD map changes and proprietary hardware custom-tailored to crowdsourcing, is an ideal complement to AMPs mapping efforts. In addition, their world-class experts will allow us to bring forward the execution of key strategic milestones and jumpstart operations in the United States.

Comment from Ro Gupta, CEO and Co-founder, CARMERA:

Woven Planet and AMP have been highly aligned with CARMERAs culture and mission from the beginning. Our teams have a common view of the unmet need for ubiquity in advanced mobility data going forward, including maps. Woven Planet, thanks to its software-first automotive DNA, shares our commitment to the end-userto creating a technology stack that can be used safely and without friction by all stakeholders from data originators through to data consumers. This validates and furthers our founding thesis that richer, faster spatial intelligence is both critical to the next generation of Mobility for All and viable at global-production scale. Im beyond excited for CARMERA to join the Woven Planet organization, as it continues to strengthen its footprint in North America and ramp up its software-first development of mobility innovations.

An earlier partnership between Woven Planetunder its predecessor organization Toyota Research institute - Advanced Development, Inc.and CARMERA in Tokyo, Detroit and Ann Arbor, Michigan, laid the groundwork for this deal. Woven Planet and CARMERA participated in collaborative projects in 2018, 2019 and 2020, which proved the companies can successfully develop and update HD maps from commodity, device-agnostic sources, such as commercially available dashboard-mounted cameras.

About Woven Planet Group

Woven Planet Group represents a carefully curated blend of expertise and resources dedicated to bringing the vision of Mobility to Love, Safety to Live to life. Through innovations and investments in automated driving, robotics, smart cities, and more, we are transforming how humankind lives, works, and moves. We exist to design, build, and deliver secure, connected, and sustainable mobility solutions that benefit all people worldwide. Founded in 2018 as Toyota Research Institute - Advanced Development (TRI-AD), Woven Planet Group is composed of four complementary companies: Woven Planet Holdings, Woven Core, Woven Alpha, and Woven Capital.

For more information, please visit: https://www.woven-planet.global/

About CARMERA

CARMERA is a spatial AI company, built on the revolution of vehicular crowdsourcing and remote sensing to capture street-level change, at global breadth and high definition depth. CARMERA employs an open systems approach to working with the worlds leading automotive companies, commercial mobility operators, and mapping platforms. With a team hailing from leading geospatial, machine learning and computer vision organizations, and venture backing from GV (Google Ventures) among others, the company is headquartered in New York City and Seattle. CARMERA is the recipient of multiple industry awards, including Frost & Sullivans 2020 North American Mapping Company of the Year.

For more information, please visit: https://www.carmera.com/

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A Mexican court has sentenced a man who approved flawed construction work at a school where 26 people died in a 2017 earthquake to 208 years in prison, prosecutors said.

Nineteen children were among those crushed to death when the private Rebsamen elementary school in the capital collapsed after the 7.1-magnitude quake.

Juan Mario Velarde, described as the director responsible for works, approved the structural safety of the school without carrying out the necessary tests and despite construction irregularities, the Mexico City prosecutor's office said.

He was sentenced "for his criminal responsibility in the crime of homicide" over the 26 deaths, it said in a statement on Wednesday.

The "historic sentence" was the result of "professional malpractice and a completely fraudulent action," prosecution spokesman Ulises Lara told the Milenio television station.

Despite knowing that "there were serious structural risks," Velarde allowed the school to continue operating, Lara said.

In October, school owner and head Monica Garcia Villegas was sentenced to 31 years in prison for culpable homicide.

She was arrested after it was discovered that she had built a large apartment on top of the classrooms, the weight of which is thought to have contributed to the building's collapse.

Critics allege that cost-cutting, corruption or incompetence by construction firms and the authorities contributed to the destruction caused by the quake, which left 369 people dead.

sem-dr/ft
MEXICO CITY (AP)  A judge sentenced a Mexican building expert to 208 years in prison Wednesday for signing off on defective remodeling work blamed in the collapse of school that killed 26 people during a 2017 earthquake.

It was the longest sentence yet handed down in relation to the magnitude 7.1 quake of Sept. 19, 2017, though it is largely symbolic, because Mexico does not permit life imprisonment and limits sentences to 60 years.

City prosecutors said Juan Mario Velarde, the responsible director of the remodeling, was convicted of 26 counts of homicide. He is one of hundreds of private experts who are paid to oversee safety and standards on building sites.

In 2020, the owner and director of the private elementary school that collapsed in Mexico City was sentenced to 31 years in prison. That woman, Monica Garcia Villegas, was convicted of charges equivalent to manslaughter.

Much of the Enrique Rebsamen school fell, killing 19 students and seven adults, all employees of the school.

Garcia Villegas was prosecuted because officials said her decision to improperly build an apartment atop part of the school contributed to its collapse.

As in other cases, authorities apparently failed to enforce building and operation regulations prior to the quake, which killed a total of 228 people in the capital and 141 others in nearby states.
South Africa mustered its army reserves on Thursday in a bid to quell looting that has ravaged supplies of food and other essentials and dealt a crippling blow to its economy.

"All reserve members are to report for duty at first light tomorrow morning 15 July 2021 at their respective units," army chief Lieutenant-General Lawrence Mbatha said in orders issued overnight as the unrest entered its sixth day.

Soldiers should "report ready with their necessary equipment," the defence ministry said in a statement.

On Wednesday, the government said it would call out around 25,000 troops to tackle the emergency -- 10 times the number that it initially deployed.

Stores and warehouses have been ransacked and torched around the economic capital of Johannesburg and in the southeastern state of KwaZulu-Natal.

The disruption has severed supply chains and choked transport links, savaging deliveries of food, fuel, medicine and other essentials.

According to official figures, 72 people have died and more than 1,200 people have been arrested, while South Africa's consumer goods regulatory body estimates that more than 800 shops have been plundered.

The unrest began a day after former president Jacob Zuma -- viewed as a champion of the poor by leftwing radicals -- began a 15-month jail term on July 8 for refusing to testify to a commission probing corruption under his tenure.

Protests quickly turned into looting as crowds pillaged shopping malls, hauling away goods as police stood by, seemingly powerless to act.

As the crisis escalated, the armed forces on Monday said they were sending 2,500 troops to help restore order.

The figure was criticised by many as paltry, given that 70,000 soldiers were deployed last year to enforce a strict coronavirus lockdown.

On Wednesday, Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula told parliament she had submitted a request for "plus or minus" 25,000 troops.

The request came after President Cyril Ramaphosa told leaders of political parties that parts of the country "may soon be running short of basic provisions" following disruption to supply chains.

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TV footage of the casual looting has deeply shocked many South Africans. Business confidence has been savaged at a time when the economy is already mired in unemployment, especially among young people.

Locals have started forming vigilante groups to protect infrastructure in their neighbourhoods.

A group of commuter minibus operators armed themselves with sticks and firearms on Wednesday and violently beat up suspected looters in the Johannesburg township of Vosloorus.

sn/ri
Twenty states, led by Alabama, have filed a brief supporting South Carolina in a lawsuit over the state's fetal heartbeat abortion law.

South Carolinas fetal heartbeat law was struck down in an error-filled district court opinion, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall wrote. Although Planned Parenthood and the other plaintiffs challenged only the laws regulation of abortion after a fetal heartbeat is detected, the district court enjoined the law in its entirety  including portions of the law that dozens of other states already have and regularly enforce.

South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster and the other defendants in the lawsuit filed an appeal last week, arguing the lawsuit was filed by third parties, Planned Parenthood South Atlantic and the Greenville Womens Clinic, that dont have the legal standing to contest the law's constitutionality.

The appeal also argued the federal district court erred by not recognizing the severability clauses, which say any portion deemed unconstitutional should be deleted while the rest of the law stands, within the bill when it issued an injunction against the law in March.

The South Carolina bill was signed by McMaster on Feb. 18, and the lawsuit against it was filed the same day.

The other states that joined Alabama's brief were Alaska, Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah and West Virginia.

At least 24 states require an abortion provider to offer to display the image from an ultrasound so the pregnant mother can view it, Marshall wrote. Yet the district court enjoined South Carolinas ultrasound disclosure law. Same for South Carolinas requirement that abortion providers make the fetal heartbeat audible for the pregnant mother if she would like to hear it  a law that at least 16 other states have also enacted. And same for South Carolinas requirement that an ultrasound be performed before an abortion is conducted  a requirement shared by at least 12 other states.

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Th bill required an ultrasound and, if a heartbeat is found, an abortion is criminalized except in cases of rape, incest, medical emergency or fetal abnormality.

Abortions previously were banned in South Carolina after 20 weeks. Fetal heartbeats can be detected as soon as six weeks after conception, according to americanpregnancy.org.

The district court tread on South Carolinas sovereign ability to decide for itself the purposes of its legislation, completely ignoring the General Assemblys clear intent, written in the text of the law, that if any part of the law were held unconstitutional then the remainder would not be invalidated, Marshall wrote.

Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: States, News, Alabama, South Carolina, Abortion, Abortion

Original Author: Jon Styf, The Center Square

Original Location: Alabama, 19 other states offer support for South Carolina abortion law
There were no last-minute surprises. The deadline for the Chicago Bears to sign Allen Robinson to a long-term extension passed Thursday at 3 p.m., leaving the wide receiver to play the 2021 season under the franchise tag.

Robinson will make $17.9 million under the tag but wont be able to sign a new contract with the Bears until after next season at the earliest.

If Robinson and the Bears remain at odds in their negotiations into next offseason, his representatives would then be able to begin conversations with other teams and test the open market starting March 14.

In the meantime, he will have to put his contract wishes on the back burner and work through any lingering hard feelings. The Bears report to training camp at Halas Hall on July 27.

At the end of the day, its out of my control, Robinson said of his contract status last month. Right now, Im just focusing on things I can control  coming back, being the best player I can be and trying to help the offense continue to improve. Thats the main focus for me.

Robinson had 102 catches for 1,250 yards and six touchdowns last season becoming just the fourth player in team history to record at least 100 receptions in a season. Brandon Marshall reached that milestone twice with 118 catches in 2012 and 100 the next season. Matt Forte set an NFL record for receptions in a season by a running back with 102 in 2014, and Marty Booker had 100 grabs in 2001.

In three seasons with the Bears, Robinson has averaged six catches for 70 yards per game while totaling 17 touchdowns. In his two postseason games with the Bears, Robinson has contributed 16 catches, 198 yards and a TD.

With veteran Andy Dalton projected to be the Bears Week 1 starter at quarterback and rookie Justin Fields pushing to get himself ready to play, Robinson figures to remain the Bears top target in the passing game and should be set up for another productive season.
By Byron Kaye and Renju Jose

SYDNEY (Reuters) -The Australian state of Victoria was ordered into a five-day lockdown on Thursday following a spike in COVID-19 infections, joining Sydney as the country's two main population hubs battle an outbreak of the highly contagious Delta variant.

From midnight, the state of 6.6 million people was told to stay home except for grocery shopping, essential work, exercise, healthcare and getting vaccinated. The lockdown in Australia's second-largest city of Melbourne is its fifth since the pandemic began a year and a half ago.

Combined with a stay-home order already in force in Sydney, the measure means nearly half Australia's 25 million population is under lockdown.

"You only get one chance to go hard and go fast," Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews told a televised news conference.

"If you wait, if you hesitate, if you doubt, then you will always be looking back wishing you had done more earlier. I am not prepared to avoid a five-day lockdown now only to find ourselves in a five-week or a five-month lockdown."

Melbourne spent about third of 2020 under curfew as the epicentre of the country's initial outbreak, suffering most of Australia's 31,400 cases and 912 deaths to date.

But it had largely avoided new infections while an outbreak in a Sydney beachfront suburb - 900km (560 miles) north - quickly spread through that city and surrounding areas last month.

That changed this week when a team of Sydney furniture movers travelled to Melbourne while infectious and introduced the virus to an apartment building.

By Thursday, dozens of Melbourne venues were listed as virus-exposed including a shopping centre, public transport routes and the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground stadium during a football match attended by thousands of people.

After nearly two weeks without a new case, the state had recorded 18 new infections in the past two days, spooking authorities who have emphasised the ease with which the Delta variant can travel between even passing contacts.

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Adjoining South Australia state reintroduced mandatory quarantine for people arriving from Victoria, while neighbouring New Zealand also suspended quarantine-free arrivals from the state. With a "travel bubble" pause already in place with New South Wales, most direct flights between the countries are now effectively grounded.

STABILISING SYDNEY

The Victoria lockdown came as the New South Wales authorities reported a dip in daily cases, prompting hopes that a lockdown in place in Greater Sydney since June 26 will not be extended beyond a scheduled end date later this month.

"Whilst the case numbers are bouncing around, we are seeing a stabilisation. They are not growing exponentially," Premier Gladys Berejiklian said in Sydney.

Berejiklian described the new case numbers as a "welcome drop", but warned infections could rise due to the growing number of infected people moving around in the community, particularly in Sydney's south-west.

Case numbers would still need to drop significantly for the city to leave lockdown, given 28 out of the 65 new infections reported were people active in the community, she added.

Of the more than 900 people in New South Wales who have been infected during the latest outbreak, 73 have been moved to hospital, with 19 people in intensive care. Two deaths have been reported, the first for the country this year.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison, under pressure due to a sputtering vaccination rollout, said he would ask state leaders at a pandemic cabinet meeting on Friday to endorse a new programme of relief payments for businesses impacted by lockdowns.

Lockdowns "should be a last resort but sometimes with the Delta variant you come to that position a lot more quickly than you used to", Morrison said.

Just over 12% Australia's adult population of around 20.5 million have been fully vaccinated https://graphics.reuters.com/world-coronavirus-tracker-and-maps/vaccination-rollout-and-access, with officials pointing to changing medical advice for vaccines and supply constraints.

Morrison is also expected to suggest using pharmacies earlier than expected to speed up the roll-out of the vaccines, one source familiar with the schedule told Reuters.

Australia previously expected pharmacies to begin administering Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine around late September, though the supply of inoculations continues to be the major inhibitor.

(Reporting by Renju Jose, Jonathan Barrett and Byron Kaye; editing by Lincoln Feast.)
Two more men have been arrested in the June 22 murder of a 19-year-old man in Key West, weeks after city police first named a suspect.

Daino Lamont Gaines, 18, and Cortez Rees Leatherwood, 20, face charges of first-degree murder and robbery in the fatal shooting of Jossue Emmanuel Gomez.

Gaines was arrested Wednesday night in Miami and locked up in the Miami-Dade jail without bond while Leatherwood was arrested Thursday in Key West and taken to the county jail on Stock Island.

Both face charges of first-degree murder and robbery and are being held without bond. It was unclear Thursday whether either had a lawyer.

Last month Key West police called Angel John Font, 21, a suspect in the murder. Font, who has also been arrested on charges of first-degree murder and robbery, remains in the county jail on Stock Island without bond. It was unclear if he has retained a lawyer.

Gomez was found bleeding from a gunshot wound at 3 a.m. on June 22. He was found in the street next to his car at the intersection of Amelia and Howe streets in the citys Bahama Village neighborhood, police spokeswoman Alyson Crean said.

Gomez was airlifted to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he later died

Font was arrested two days later on outstanding warrants after police and federal agents tracked him down in Merritt Island.

During the arrest, Font told police that he had stayed overnight in a small building on the property and was waiting for his brother to show up from Key West in an RV, according to the Brevard County Sheriffs Office arrest report.

Key West police have not released details about the murder case or suggested a motive.

When asked which of the three men police believe fired a gun at Gomez, Crean said she couldnt answer.

Detectives havent put it out there, she said.

Crean said Thursday that arrest reports were not yet available.
(Reuters) -Barrick Gold Corp, said on Thursday second-quarter gold production fell 5.4% from the previous quarter, dented by planned maintenance shutdowns at Nevada Gold Mine in the United States and Pueblo Viejo in the Dominican Republic.

Total preliminary gold production fell to 1.04 million ounces in the three months ended June 30, from 1.10 million ounces in the first quarter, the company said.

Analysts on average had expected production of 1.15 million ounces, according to Refinitiv IBES.

The Canadian miner projected second quarter all-in sustaining costs per ounce, a key industry metric, to be 6% to 8% higher than in the prior quarter.

The world's second largest gold miner by reserves, which hopes the Porgera gold mine in Papua New Guinea could restart this year after reaching an agreement with the government in April, said it remains on track to achieve its 2021 forecast.

Copper production rose 3.2% to 96 million pounds from the prior quarter, the company said.

Barrick said all-in sustaining costs per pound are expected to be 20% to 22% higher than prior quarter, largely due to lower sales at Lumwana mine in Zambia and maintenance at Zaldivar mine in Chile.

The company reiterated that its gold and copper production in the second half of 2021 is expected to be higher than the first half.

Barrick is scheduled to report second-quarter results on Aug. 9.

(Reporting by Arunima Kumar in Bengaluru; Editing by Sriraj Kalluvila)
TechCrunch

Several weeks ago, the Linux community was rocked by the disturbing news that University of Minnesota researchers had developed (but, as it turned out, not fully executed) a method for introducing what they called "hypocrite commits" to the Linux kernel -- the idea being to distribute hard-to-detect behaviors, meaningless in themselves, that could later be aligned by attackers to manifest vulnerabilities. A public apology from the researchers followed. Equally certain, maintainers and project governance are duty bound to enforce policy and avoid having their time wasted.
President Biden meets with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in the Oval Office on Thursday. (Evan Vucci / Associated Press)

President Biden and German Chancellor Angela Merkel sought to broaden cooperation between their countries in meetings at the White House on Thursday, in what will likely be the final visit of one of America's foremost allies before she leaves the post she's held for 16 years, through four U.S. presidencies.

The two leaders, whose countries are pillars of the transatlantic alliance, discussed a range of issues where they have common ground: climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic and security challenges in Afghanistan, Iran, Libya and eastern Europe.

But they also tried to bridge two gaps between them, involving Russia's nearly complete Nord Stream II gas pipeline to Germany, which the United States opposed, and the administration's desire for Germany to take a tougher stance toward China, its largest trading partner.

Biden called Merkel "a great friend, a personal friend and a friend of the United States" in comments to reporters as the two leaders began their meeting. He heaped more praise on her at a news conference later, thanking her for "strong, principled leadership" and being "a stalwart champion of the transatlantic alliance."

Merkel, whose relations with former President Trump were notably tense, said at the outset, "I am very much looking forward to deepening the relationship again." Later she twice described the meetings with Biden as "very friendly" and told reporters the two nations "share the same values" and are equally determined to tackle international problems "at a crucial moment."

The chancellor began her day at a working breakfast with Vice President Kamala Harris, and near its end joined Biden in signing a formal declaration for future cooperation on the array of global challenges. They capped the visit with a ceremonial dinner that included officials from both countries.

Among the Americans was a bipartisan group of invitees including two former secretaries of State, Hillary Clinton and Colin Powell, Congress' two top Republicans  Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy of Bakersfield  and Stephen Hadley, former President George W. Bush's national security advisor.

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Biden, responding to several questions at the news conference that were unrelated to U.S.-German relations, said he was not considering sending military troops to Haiti amid the unrest following the assassination of its president; called Cuba, which has been engulfed by protests over food and medicine shortages, "a failed state"; and expressed guarded confidence that he would achieve his agenda in Congress for infrastructure and social spending.

The looming departure of Merkel, Europe's longest-serving and most important leader, could complicate Biden's efforts to renew multilateral relations with allies after their tensions with Trump, and to solidify the alliance as a bulwark against Russian and Chinese aggression. Merkel is expected to leave the chancellorship after German elections in September.

"She's always infuriated her peers with her ambiguities, but in truth she was actually very predictable," said Constanze Stelzenmuller, a Germany expert at the Brookings Institution, a Washington think tank. Merkel's departure and replacement by a less experienced successor, she continued, "introduces an element of uncertainty at a time when allies would like to have more certainty in the capital of Europe's anchor economy."

On the issues that divided Biden and Merkel, he could be helped by the fact that German public opinion has turned against China and the Nord Stream II pipeline.

The pipeline, which bypasses the key gas route through Ukraine to connect Russia and Germany directly, could be completed by August but has become less popular given Germans' concerns about the risk from Russia to Ukraine's security. Also, German intelligence officials have issued dire warnings about Russian and Chinese meddling in the country's upcoming elections "at levels not seen since the Cold War."

Merkel's reluctance to confront China "has alarmed policymakers in Germany," Stelzenmuller said. "Managing China's rise will require using our considerable trade, technological and regulatory leverage to delineate clearer red lines. That is where Merkel has been overtaken by shifts in expert and also public opinion."

At the news conference, Merkel affirmed Biden's positions on China related to fair trade, human rights and the territorial sovereignty of Hong Kong, stating that there is "a common understanding that China, in many areas, is our competitor." She added, "How we deal with China ought to rest  and does rest  on our shared values."

Merkel reaffirmed her support for an infrastructure bank, a Biden proposal to have the world's largest democracies offer financing to developing countries as a more transparent and energy-efficient alternative to Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative.

On Nord Stream II, the State Department last spring eased off the threat of sanctions over the project, partly because the pipeline's imminent completion rendered it a moot point. But Texas Sen. Ted Cruz and other Republicans have held up Senate confirmation of Biden's nominee to head the CIA until the administration imposes sanctions against companies helping Russias state energy company on the pipeline.

Biden said imposing sanctions on a nearly completed project "didn't make a lot of sense." He did secure a pledge from Merkel to counter Russia should it use the pipeline to threaten Ukraine.

"Our idea is and remains that Ukraine remains a transit country for natural gas, and that Ukraine has a right to territorial sovereignty," Merkel said. "We will be actively acting should Russia not respect this right."

She did not elaborate on what that action might be. Biden said both countries would look for "practical measures" they could take in such a scenario.

Despite pressure from Republicans in Congress, Biden had appeared eager to find a middle ground on the pipeline dispute, said Ian Bremmer, president of the Eurasia Group, a global risk assessment firm in New York. "He does not want to have problems with the Russians while he's focusing on China, and he also wants to be seen as more aligned with the Europeans."

Biden, who has met with Russian leader Vladimir Putin as well as Merkel, has invited Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky to the White House for a meeting this summer, though no date has been set.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Sending U.S. troops to Haiti following the assassination of President Jovenel Moise is "not on the agenda at this moment" but Marines will be sent to bolster security at the U.S. Embassy in the country, President Biden said at a news conference Thursday.

Why it matters: Haitian authorities requested the Biden administration to send soldiers to help stabilize the country after Moise was killed by a group of armed men who entered his home last week.

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What they're saying: "Were only sending American Marines to our embassy," Biden said. "The idea of sending American forces to Haiti is not on the agenda."

The big picture: Haiti has been on edge since Moise's killing, and some Haitian officials fear that the country's police force will be unable to maintain order, according to AP.

Several suspects have so far been arrested in the investigation into the assassination, including Dimitri Herard, the chief of security at Haiti's presidential palace.

Editor's note: This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.

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Black Lives Matter blamed the "cruel and inhumane" U.S. embargo on Cuba for the country's crisis as its citizens protest President Miguel Diaz-Canel's authoritarian regime.

The organization accused the United States of causing instability through historic economic embargoes that led to "pain and suffering" for Cubans for nearly 60 years. The group also praised the Cuban government for granting black revolutionaries asylum in the past.

"Black Lives Matter condemns the US federal government's inhumane treatment of Cubans, and urges it to immediately lift the economic embargo," the group wrote Wednesday.

DEMOCRATS DIVIDED ON CUBA RESPONSE FOLLOWING ANTI-REGIME PROTESTS

Diaz-Canel admitted Wednesday in a televised address that his government's failures played a role in the protests.

"The extortionist ring known as the Black Lives Matter organization took a break today from shaking down corporations for millions & buying themselves mansions to share their support for the Communist regime in #Cuba," said Republican Florida Sen. Marco Rubio.

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Republican Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley echoed Rubio's remarks, saying, "Heres the Black Lives Matter org supporting the brutal & oppressive dictatorship in #Cuba."

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Hillel Neuer, a Canadian-born international lawyer and director of a United Nations watchdog group, said Black Lives Matter "just sided with the oppressor."

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Black Lives Matter's statement called on President Joe Biden to end the embargo in Cuba, calling it a "blatant human rights violation" that "must come to and end."

The same sentiment has been repeated by independent Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, who tweeted Monday it was "long past time to end the unilateral U.S. embargo on Cuba."

The U.S. embargo is "undermining Cubans' right to choose their own government," Black Lives Matter said, but the organization did not underscore that Cuba is a communist one-party state. While the country does have elections, Cuba's government has faced condemnation from human rights groups and Western governments for being undemocratic.

Story continues

The protests in Cuba represent a "clarion call for freedom and relief from the tragic grip of the pandemic and from the decades of repression and economic suffering to which they have been subjected by Cuba's authoritarian regime," Biden said in a statement Monday.

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Despite the administration's support of the people's protest movement, it has stopped short of implementing policies between Cuba and the U.S.

Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: News, Black Lives Matter, Cuba, embargo, United States, Marco Rubio

Original Author: Kaelan Deese

Original Location: Black Lives Matter blames 'cruel and inhumane' US embargo for Cuban unrest
BLM is calling on political leaders to respond to the protests by lifting the economic embargo.

Black Lives Matter has called the U.S. governments decades-long embargo on Cuba cruel and inhumane.

The organization has addressed the growing anti-government protests in the island nation, sparked by shortages of food, electricity, medicine, and other vital resources.

Since 1962, the United States has forced pain and suffering on the people of Cuba by cutting off food, medicine and supplies, costing the tiny island nation an estimated $130 billion, BLM recently wrote in a statement on its Instagram account.

The organization noted that the embargo was instituted with the explicit intention of destabilizing the country and undermining Cubans right to choose their own government and is at the heart of Cubas current crisis.

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Thousands of Cubans have participated in protests against Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel. They are demanding more freedoms, more life-sustaining resources, and access to vaccines amid a reported spike in COVID-19 cases and deaths in recent weeks.

This month, protestors gathered in Havana to push back against a government they allege has left them starving during the ongoing pandemic.

Black Lives Matter is calling on the US government to respond to the crisis by lifting the economic embargo.

The group said the people of Cuba are being punished by the U.S. government because the country has maintained its commitment to sovereignty and self-determination, adding, United States leaders have tried to crush this Revolution for decades.

(Photo by Natasha Moustache/Getty Images)

Instead of international amity, respect, and goodwill, the U.S. government has only instigated suffering for the countrys 11 million people- of which 4 million are Black and Brown, BLM wrote.

Several Republicans were quick to clap back at BLM following the statement, accusing the civil rights advocacy organization of supporting Cubas Communist government, per The Hill.

Story continues

The extortionist ring known as the Black Lives Matter organization took a break today from shaking down corporations for millions & buying themselves mansions to share their support for the Communist regime in #Cuba, Cuban American Sen. Marco Rubio R-Fla. tweeted Thursday.

Conservative commentator Ben Shapiro, co-founder of Daily Wire, retweeted BLMs statement, saying: Reminder: BLM is a horrible communist organization and always was.

Odette Casamayor-Cisneros, associate professor at the University of Pennsylvania, called BLM blind and deft to Cuban people.

I am Black & Cuban and deeply hurt by the #BLM statement on Cuban protests, Dr. Casamayor-Cisneros tweeted. They are blind and deft to the Cuban ppl, to their demands. With whom is their solidarity? Certainly not with the people in the streets. LISTEN to us.

A similar education and awareness that #BLM rightfully demands for white people is what I ask for them. I ask BLM to put aside their preconceptions abt #Cuba and listen to the Cubans on the island, their reality not the speeches #BLM wants to believe, she added.

Self-described feminist Emily Schrader, a columnist with Israels Jerusalem Post, called BLMs statement shameful.

Apparently Black Lives Matter unless its black lives in Cuba living under a communist dictatorship who want to be free, Schrader tweeted. Marxism is an egregious crime against humanity. Shame on BLM.

American Conservative Union Chair Matt Schlapp said BLM was siding w Communist overseers in Cuba.

He added, BLM Inc has laid bare to the world that it was never about race so much as destroying America and pushing Marxism, Schlapp wrote.

Siding w Castroism over oppressed Afro Cubans is a tipping point. But maybe BLM got a beachfront house out of the deal.

Meanwhile, President Joe Biden is urging Cuban officials to take seriously the pleas of the demonstrators, theGrio reported.

We stand with the Cuban people as they bravely assert their fundamental and universal rights, and as they all call for freedom and relief from the tragic grip of the pandemic and from the decades of repression and economic suffering, read the caption on the official POTUS Twitter account, along with a link to Bidens statement.

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President Biden said he strongly supports the protesters.

The Cuban people are demanding their freedom from an authoritarian regime, he said during a recent White House event.

The U.S. stands firmly with the people of Cuba as they assert their universal rights. And we call on the government of Cuba to refrain from violence in their attempt to silence the voices of the people of Cuba, he added.

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The post Black Lives Matter condemns U.S. government amid Cuba crisis appeared first on TheGrio.
Democratic mayoral nominee Eric Adams in New York City on July 7, 2021.

As we stood backstage with Eric Adams last month in Brooklyn, just before he walked out to give his speech to a packed house, each of us shook our head back and forth in quiet recognition. New York City had just sent a message: Working people remain the core of the Democratic Party.

Much has been written  and much will be written  about the meaning of what Eric accomplished. But as the new nominee of Democrats to become mayor of New York, no one can credibly dispute how he did it. With a clear message and unassailable authenticity as a man who fought through poverty and racism, he gathered a historic coalition of Black, Latino, Asian American and Pacific Islander, and immigrant working class people.

And if he ultimately wins, it will be the first time in more than a century that a person of color from a blue collar background will lead the city.

A refreshingly authentic political figure

Our deep hope is that our party learns from Erics campaign and is inspired by his message. To help with the former, we offer our thoughts here on the details of just how it all came together.

At a church in Harlem early on in the campaign, Eric prepared the congregation for the influx of candidates they were about to sit through Sunday after Sunday. He said, thats part of the process, then added, But you all know, I am not new to this; I am true to this. Knowing laughter followed.

Erics message was simple: I lived the life of the working class and low-income people who need help. Who better to make sure they get it?

Authenticity is a tool, Eric argued. To lead the city out of crisis, New Yorkers must hear you and believe you before they follow you. Although he has been an elected official for 15 years, he had always led this fight with the zeal of an outsider. Now, Eric asked the city what a guy from the neighborhood could do from the inside.

Barcott and Wigler: Sen. John Warner's Foxhole Doctrine: Democrat or Republican, we're all fellow soldiers.

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As shootings skyrocketed in the city mid-spring, Eric stood on the steps of Bronx Borough Hall to roll out a detailed anti-violence plan that was far more comprehensive than anything his opponents had released. As a former police officer and outspoken NYPD reformer, he had the credibility that they didn't  but we also got the strong sense that the other campaigns were weary of triggering the loud minority of defund supporters.

I dont know why no one else is talking about this, Eric said to the agitated applause of dozens of Black and Latino working class anti-violence advocates.

Adam's message resonates with voters

That moment was undoubtedly a turning point. Soon after, a daylight assassination in Park Slope and a brazen shootout in Times Square would force the other candidates to attempt to catch up. At that point, we knew from internal polling that Eric was, deservedly, the most trusted candidate on public safety issues.

But Erics popularity, ultimately, was not just based on his crime message. For his voters, racial justice was consistently the second-most important issue, and we knew balancing the two was critical. Soon after, in what was maybe the most emotional moment of the campaign, police violence victim Abner Louima held hands with Eric in City Hall Park and endorsed him.

Prashar: If you want to know how battle over defund police plays out, watch New York City election

From our lead on safety, a final critical insight for us was that voters trust in Eric to bring down crime led to trust in other areas of concern, including the economy and public health. As Eric has said repeatedly, public safety is the key to prosperity.

While many outside observers saw our leadership on the issue of safety, we also led the pack of candidates in Erics ability to tackle inequality. Our second TV spot, Rally, delivered a message that transcended ideologies and geographies  that our city and country fundamentally remain unequal, and that those injustices need to be addressed to really uplift working families.

Where other candidates offered half-baked policies and platitudes, Eric emotionally saw the arc of history and argued for a moral crusade to fix the inequality in our city that harms people of color and outer borough white voters alike.

Solutions, not revolutions

In an era of lofty rhetoric from some, Erics message and policy were also decidedly practical, not ideological. Here too was another important insight: Working-class voters badly need their government to deliver for them, and they are much more interested in solutions than revolutions.

And although Erics core coalition was overwhelmingly of color, he had uniquely stitched together white working-class support from every corner of the city. This, perhaps, is the most important lesson: The type of working people who built the modern Democratic Party are still very much its future. But we risk allowing their alienation to turn to abandonment without speaking to them on their issues in a credible voice.

Some will say that New York is not the nation, that we cannot win nationally by focusing on the politics of cities. But thats the wrong take. The increase in Donald Trump's vote with Latinos happened in cities and suburbs alike. And when people of color across the country are motivated to turn out  we win. Working-class voters are investing in doers, not just dreamers.

On primary election night, as we stared out at a sea of diverse faces, we saw the future of our city and country. Our brief moment of reflection ended, and the weight of purpose was present again. Eric picked his head up and focused out the doorway. The final speaker bellowed his name and the crowd cheered. After years of fighting from the outside as the voice of concern, the spotlight shifted to him.

Nathan Smith (@NathanRHS) and Evan Thies (@EvanThiesNYC) are senior advisers to Eric Adams campaign for mayor, and co-founders at Red Horse Strategies and Pythia Public Affairs, respectively.

You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter. To respond to a column, submit a comment to letters@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Adams' campaign exceeds platitudes with practical, successful strategy
The flight tipped on its nose as it was preparing for a flight to Frankfurt on June 18

A British Airways jet collapsed on its nose at Heathrow Airport after a mechanic was too short to lock its landing gear into place, a report has revealed.

The lead mechanic was tasked with securing the nose landing gear of the Boeing 787-8 in the down position before a planned flight to Germany last month.

But according to the Air Accidents Investigation Branch report, he was not tall enough to reach a pin needed to lock landing gear, so asked a taller colleague to perform the task. However, the second mechanic put the pin in the wrong recess.

The error meant the nose landing gear suddenly retracted into the flying position when the hydraulics were tested by an engineer on the flight deck.

It caused the aircraft to smash down to the ground as it was being prepared for a flight to Frankfurt, causing extensive damage to the lower nose, the landing gear doors and engine cowlings.

A cargo loader who was on the ground beside the aircraft and the co-pilot on the flight deck received minor injuries, the report stated.

The correct (left) and incorrect position (right) for the nose gear locking pin on the British Airways jet - AAIB/East Anglia News Service

It added that the lead mechanic had used a set of portable steps to install the four locking pins for the main landing gear of the aircraft.

The successful installation meant that the main landing gear did not retract when the hydraulics were tested and only the nose of the aircraft was affected.

Hundreds of passengers witnessed the incident, which took place just before 7am on June 18.

Investigators found that the nose landing gear locking pin had accidentally been put in a recess called the apex pin inner bore instead of the correct hole which was adjacent to it.

An identical error was made on another Boeing 787 in 2018, causing its nose to collapse on the tarmac. As a result, Boeing said work should be carried out to stop the locking pin being placed in the wrong position.

The Federal Aviation Administration stated in January last year that the work should be done on all relevant Boeing jets within three years. But the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) report found that the work had not yet been done on the British Airways aircraft involved in the accident.

It added that British Airways was now planning to expedite the incorporation of the recommended safety improvement to its fleet.

The airline added in a statement: Safety is always our highest priority and we are working closely with the AAIB on the continuing investigation.
Surfer Kolohe Andino practices his moves Tuesday during last-minute training at Bolsa Chica State Beach in Huntington Beach before heading to the Tokyo Summer Olympics. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

Next stop, Tokyo.

San Clemente surfer and Team USA member Kolohe Andino got in some last-minute practice Tuesday before heading to the Tokyo Summer Olympic Games for the debut of surfing.

Andino's father, Dino Andino, a former pro surfer, and U.S. Olympic coach Brett Simpson were on hand for the training session. It was Andino's last practice before heading to Japan on Wednesday.

Andino and John John Florence of Hawaii will make up the U.S. men's team. Another San Clemente surfer, Caroline Marks, and Carissa Moore of Hawaii form the U.S. women's team.

Kolohe Andino, left, poses for a photo with a young fan while getting in some last-minute Olympic training at Bolsa Chica State Beach. (Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times)

Kolohe Andino does a backside snap while getting in some last-minute Olympic training at Bolsa Chica State Beach. (Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times)

Team U.S.A. coach Brett Simpson, center, congratulates Kolohe Andino on a good training session at Bolsa Chica State Beach. Andino's father, Dino Andino, is seated on the left. (Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times)

Kolohe Andino, left, paddles out during last-minute training session at Bolsa Chica State Beach in Huntington Beach. (Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times)

Surfer Kolohe Andino, from left, talks to his U.S. Olympic coach, Brett Simpson, and his father, Dino Andino, at Bolsa Chica State Beach. (Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times)

More visual journalism from the Los Angeles Times

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A California woman was arrested and slapped with two charges - for distributing fake vaccine cards, and selling bogus medications that she claimed would give lifelong immunity to COVID. Joan Slatkin/Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

A California woman was charged on Wednesday with distributing fake vaccine cards.

The Justice Department alleged that Juli Mazi, 41, was distributing the cards along with the sale of bogus pills.

According to the DOJ, Mazi made false claims that the pills provide lifelong immunity to COVID.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

A California woman licensed to practice as a homeopathic doctor was arrested and charged this week for allegedly giving out fake vaccine cards.

The Department of Justice said in a news release on Wednesday that Napa resident Juli Mazi was charged with one count of wire fraud and one count of false statements related to health care matters. Mazi's alleged scheme involved the sale of bogus medicine and falsified vaccine cards. According to the DOJ, this is the first time someone has ever been charged for giving out fake versions of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) vaccine cards.

According to a criminal complaint seen by Insider, Mazi claimed the pills, which she called "homeoprophylaxis immunization pellets," contained a minute amount of the COVID virus. She told customers that ingesting them would give someone lifelong immunity to COVID. Along with the pills, Mazi would give away counterfeits of the CDC's COVID vaccination record cards.

The sham cards falsely indicated that Mazi's customers received the Moderna COVID vaccine, per the complaint. The complaint noted that Mazi also instructed her customers on how to fill the false vaccine cards out using real Moderna vaccine lot numbers.

Per the DOJ, Mazi would encourage her customers to buy her pills for their children and babies, claiming that US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-authorized vaccines contain "toxic ingredients."

"This defendant allegedly defrauded and endangered the public by preying on fears and spreading misinformation about FDA-authorized vaccinations, while also peddling fake treatments that put people's lives at risk. Even worse, the defendant allegedly created counterfeit COVID-19 vaccination cards and instructed her customers to falsely mark that they had received a vaccine, allowing them to circumvent efforts to contain the spread of the disease," said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco in the DOJ's news release.

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"Spreading inaccurate or false medical information about COVID-19 for personal gain, as the complaint alleges, is dangerous and only seeds skepticism among the public," said agent Craig Fair, from the Federal Bureau of Investigation's San Francisco field office, in the DOJ's news release.

The FBI has warned that dealing in fake COVID vaccine cards online is a crime. Facebook, eBay, and other online marketplaces have removed listings of counterfeit COVID vaccine cards to stop sellers from profiting off the sale of these illegal items. However, Insider's Chris Stokel-Walker revealed in an investigation in May that it is easier than one may think to just print vaccine cards through online print-on-demand services.

Read the original article on Insider
A California woman who pretended to have coronavirus and then coughed at a group of Walgreen employees in a bid to escape the store with a collection of stolen items has been convicted on a federal charge.

Carmelita Barela was found guilty on Wednesday of robbery affecting interstate commerce in connection with the incident, which occurred amid the peak of the coronavirus pandemic last year.

According to a criminal complaint, the 36-year-old and another woman entered the drug store, not far from the San Francisco Civic Center, maskless and with empty bags on April 6, 2020. When the manager approached the pair and asked if they needed any help, the second woman began to cough without covering her mouth, prompting the manager to request she leave if she was sick.

Instead, Barela joined in and started coughing as well, the U.S. Attorneys Office said in a statement Wednesday. They continued pulling items off the shelves and filling their bags with about $90 of products, telling workers we have COVID, before exiting the Walgreens without paying.

Barela was indicted in June 2020 and convicted this week following a two-day trial.

The spread of COVID-19 has forced almost all of us to make sacrifices and to rely on each other to maintain our safety and good health, said acting U.S. Attorney Stephanie Hinds in the statement.

Unfortunately, some people have tried to use the crisis to intimidate essential workers and to commit crimes, she continued. This conviction demonstrates that those who seek to exploit the pandemic and commit crimes for their own personal gain will be held accountable.

Barela faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine when she is sentenced next month.
Not all California legislators have disclosed whether they've been vaccinated against COVID-19. Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Gardena), center, told The Times he's been vaccinated, but neither Sen. Brian Jones (D-Santee), right, nor Sen. Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield), left, responded to repeated inquiries. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

As millions of Californians return to in-person work with a requirement to say whether they've been vaccinated for COVID-19, legislators who represent some of those residents have refused disclosure, either ignoring the question or insisting their employers  the state's taxpayers  don't have the right to know.

In a survey conducted by The Times, 12 members of the California Legislature refused to disclose their COVID-19 vaccination status. Eleven of the lawmakers are Republicans, accounting for almost 40% of all GOP members.

There are no current requirements that lawmakers get vaccinated, and a number of safety protocols are in place inside the state Capitol. Even so, there are few, if any, repercussions for legislators who choose not to vaccinate. Capitol guidelines advise lawmakers and staff to provide vaccination information to health officials, but members of the state Senate and Assembly have no traditional workplace manager and, for the most part, answer only to their constituents.

"I'm not going to, because it's my choice," said state Sen. Brian Dahle (R-Bieber), when asked Monday about why he refused to disclose whether he's vaccinated against COVID-19.

Dahle and his wife, Assemblywoman Megan Dahle (R-Bieber), both declined to answer vaccination questions this week while the Legislature was in session. Several other legislators also rejected The Times' repeated efforts to determine their vaccination status or to learn the reasons for their unwillingness to provide it.

"I'm not answering any of those questions," Assemblyman James Gallagher (R-Yuba City) said as he walked toward an Assembly floor session.

Some of the legislators who wouldn't comment revealed last year that they had contracted COVID-19. Last summer, Assemblywoman Autumn Burke (D-Marina del Rey) said that she had tested positive for COVID-19. Several weeks later, during the final days of the legislative session, state Sen. Brian Jones (R-Santee) revealed he, too, had tested positive.

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Both Burke and Jones declined to comment on their vaccination status when approached this week in Sacramento and would not say whether they believe contracting COVID-19 provided them adequate immunity. At least three other legislators who also became infected with COVID-19 last year told The Times they have received a vaccination: Assembly members Tom Lackey (R-Palmdale) and Patrick O'Donnell (D-Long Beach) and state Sen. Josh Newman (D-Fullerton).

Burke was the only Democrat in the Legislature who would not provide information on her COVID-19 vaccination status  the rest said they have been fully vaccinated.

Because Democrats hold a supermajority of seats in both the Senate and Assembly, their near-total vaccination status as reported to The Times would mean at least 90% of the Legislature is vaccinated  far surpassing the percentage of the public that has been inoculated. Slightly more than half of all Californians are fully vaccinated against the disease, according to state statistics released this week.

But data provided by Senate and Assembly administrators show the percentage of legislative vaccinations drops when adding staff members to the mix, putting the vaccination rate among the workforce of the Legislature at 85%.

Several Democratic lawmakers have been eager to talk about their vaccinations.

"The answer is hell yeah and I'm resentful of science deniers coming to the Capitol and infecting vaxxed people with COVID," Assemblyman Marc Levine (D-Greenbrae) posted on Twitter after being contacted by The Times. "We have families. Don't put everyone at risk."

On Wednesday, a group of Democratic legislators posed for photos on the Capitol steps wearing T-shirts emblazoned with the word "VACCINATE." A second photo showed the lawmakers throwing their masks into the air in celebration.

The effort comes on the heels of increasing concerns across the state about the rising number of COVID-19 cases sparked by the dangerous Delta variant and the tapering off of vaccination rates. In the last two and a half weeks, the Assembly has reported 10 confirmed cases of the virus. Four of those have been in people who said they were fully vaccinated. The San Francisco Chronicle reported Sunday that Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood) is considering requiring COVID-19 vaccinations after the recent outbreak.

"Theres no question, at some point, that vaccinations are going to have to become mandatory" in workplaces, said David Magnus, a professor and director of the Center for Biomedical Ethics at Stanford University. "We just have to understand that this isnt a matter of personal individual autonomy, this is a matter of public health. There has to be a balancing."

The highest-ranking Republican in the Assembly, GOP Leader Marie Waldron of Valley Center in San Diego County, did not respond to repeated requests for information. But she has urged the Legislature to remain in session in Sacramento this year after last year's public health shutdowns, participating in work that typically includes long hours in the state Capitol's tight quarters.

"This year, lawmakers must get to work and stay at work despite the pandemic," she said in a Facebook post in January.

Waldron and six other Assembly members refused to comment on their vaccination status. Besides Burke, Dahle and Gallagher, The Times was unable to obtain information from Assemblywoman Laurie Davies (R-Laguna Niguel), Assemblyman Kelly Seyarto (R-Murrieta) or Assemblyman Thurston "Smitty" Smith (R-Apple Valley).

"I dont discuss my medical records with anyone but my husband and my doctor," Davies told a Times reporter.

A similar response came from Smith, whose spokesperson said in an email that staffers "do not disclose Assemblyman Smith's personal health with members of the media or constituents."

In the 40-member state Senate, all but five lawmakers said they are fully vaccinated, with inoculations disclosed by both Democrats and Republicans. The five who refused to do so are Dahle, Jones and Sens. Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield), Melissa Melendez (R-Lake Elsinore) and Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa).

Magnus said only those with underlying medical conditions and serious, well-established religious objections should be entitled to a COVID-19 vaccine exemption.

"Unless they meet those standards, then there is really no legitimate reason for them to not be vaccinated. Otherwise, they are doing something wrong that puts other people at risk," he said.

For some Republicans, the topic of COVID-19 vaccinations could prove politically thorny when it comes to their supporters who might be skeptical of the safety or necessity of the vaccine.

Bogh, a first-term Republican who won in an Inland Empire district in 2020 where Democrats have a slight edge in voter registration, recorded a public service announcement this year touting COVID-19 vaccines as "one of our most powerful tools against this virus." But she avoided taking a clear stand on the urgency of vaccinations.

"If you choose to get vaccinated, you should get the first one available to you," the senator says in the video.

Californians who aren't vaccinated, state and federal health officials say, should wear a mask in public and maintain at least six feet of physical distancing. Many retail shops and other businesses have signs specifically requiring unvaccinated customers to follow mask mandates and physical distancing rules.

In the state Capitol, the rules require all lawmakers, staff and visitors to wear masks. Only when a legislator or staff member is alone in an office with the door closed, legislative officials said, can they remove their mask  a policy reconfirmed in the Assembly this month after the cluster of new cases.

Anyone who is unvaccinated or who declines to disclose their status must be tested twice a week for COVID-19, legislative officials said.

It's unclear whether any of the dozen legislators who refused to discuss their status are not vaccinated against COVID-19. If so, photos that several of them have posted on their social media accounts could raise concerns about whether they are at risk for contracting the disease or spreading it to associates and constituents.

Both Sen. Dahle and Assemblywoman Dahle posted photos in May and June of themselves unmasked while with constituents in their rural Northern California districts, often standing shoulder to shoulder with local residents. Davies, elected in November to represent a portion of Orange County, posted similar photos over the July 4 holiday.

Seyarto, representing a Riverside County district where former President Trump won by double digits last fall, posted photos on Facebook this month of various events where he was maskless, including photos showing others wearing masks.

Grove, the former Senate GOP leader, was maskless while attending a large Christian music concert last summer outside the state Capitol that drew criticism from Sacramento County health officials. Last week, she posted a photo of herself standing close to documentary filmmakers affiliated with the concert's performer, Sean Feucht.

Though disclosure of a private persons vaccination status might rightly be limited to employers for most Californians, the equation changes for those who serve in elected office and are accountable only to voters, Magnus said.

"Theres nobody who they work for in the way other people do," he said. "Politicians are in a very different category as public figures."

Times staff writers Patrick McGreevy, Phil Willon, Taryn Luna, Ari Plachta and Melody Gutierrez contributed to this report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Inside a Chinese bitcoin mine

New data shows Bitcoin mining in China was already in sharp decline before the latest crackdown by the government.

The research by the Cambridge Centre for Alternative Finance (CCAF) found China's share of mining fell from 75.5% in September 2019 to 46% in April 2021.

It also revealed Kazakhstan was now the third most significant Bitcoin mining nation.

Miners earn money by creating new Bitcoins, but the computing used consumes large amounts of energy.

They audit Bitcoin transactions in exchange for an opportunity to acquire the digital currency.

Global mining requires enormous computing power, which in turn uses huge amounts of electricity, and consequently contributes significantly to global emissions.

The CCAF's Cambridge Bitcoin Electricity Consumption Index shows that at time of writing Bitcoin consumed almost as much electricity annually as Colombia.

China moves

In June the Chinese authorities took strong action against Bitcoin.

The authorities told banks and payments platforms to stop supporting digital currency transactions causing prices to tumble.

The data from the CCAF covers a period before the crackdown, but it shows China's share of global mining power was already in significant decline prior to the action by the Chinese authorities.

The Cambridge researchers observed that the crackdown, once enacted, effectively led to all of China's mining power "disappearing overnight, suggesting that miners and their equipment are on the move".

Kazakhstan is a heavy user of coal-fired generation

Experts say the miners are highly mobile.

"Miners pack shipping containers with mining rigs", said David Gerard, author of Attack Of The 50 Foot Blockchain, "so that in effect they are mobile computer data centres, and they are now trying to ship those out of China".

It's not clear where they will go, but even before the crackdown the geography of mining was shifting.

Kazakhstan, a country rich in fossil fuels, saw an almost six-fold increase in mining - increasing its share from 1.4% in September 2019 to 8.2% in April 2021.

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According to the US Department of Commerce, 87% of Kazakhstan's electricity "is generated from fossil fuels" with coal accounting for more than 70% of generation.

The country is now the third largest miner of Bitcoins, behind the US, which saw its share of global mining power also rise significantly - to 16.8%.

Raining money

The data also revealed the close ties between sources of cheap electricity and Bitcoin mining.

Researchers found a seasonal movement of mining between Chinese provinces in response, it was suggested, to the availability of hydro-electric power.

Mining moved from the coal-burning northern province of Xinjiang in the dry season, to the hydro-abundant southern province of Sichuan in the rainy season.

The researchers noted that "this seasonal migration has materially affected the energy profile of Bitcoin mining in China", adding that it illustrated "the complexity of assessing the environmental effects of mining".

Sichuan banned Bitcoin mining in June.
Paul Biris / Getty Images

Canada rejected a plan to get locals vaccinated inside a US border tunnel using a surplus of COVID-19 shots from Michigan.

A Canadian mayor proposed a plan to have residents jabbed inside the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel.

"Our government will not let this happen," said Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

Oh, Canada...

The Great White North has reportedly turned down a quirky plan for Canadians to get vaccinated against the coronavirus inside a US border tunnel using a surplus of hundreds of thousands of COVID-19 shots from Michigan.

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens of Ontario had proposed a plan to get residents jabbed inside the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel in the Detroit River, the Associated Press reported.

The idea was to have Canadians stand along the border tunnel where a white stripe was painted to mark the border and have healthcare workers inoculate them along the border itself.

"We're not trying to send a man to the moon here. We're using the infrastructure to accomplish a shared goal," Dilkens said, according to the AP. "This is a sensible, reasonable alternative to vaccines heading to the landfill."

But now the plan, Dilkens said, "is dead."

"Our government will not let this happen," said the mayor.

The Canada Border Services Agency shot down the proposal, telling Dilkens that the makeshift tunnel clinic could cause a disturbance to traffic and have "significant security implications," the AP reported.

Additionally, the Public Health Agency of Canada explained that problems could arise if the person administering the vaccine shot accidentally reached across the tunnel's white stripe into the country.

"A vaccine cannot be imported into Canadian space without the express consent of Health Canada," agency executive vice president Kathy Thompson said, according to the AP.

Michigan has 500,000 vaccines that are set to expire in early August, the news outlet reported, citing a state health department spokeswoman.

Read the original article on Insider
DETROIT (AP)  The Canadian government has rejected a creative plan to have Ontario residents line up inside a U.S. border tunnel to tap into a surplus of COVID-19 vaccine held by Michigan, a mayor said.

A white stripe was painted inside the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel in the Detroit River. Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens proposed that Canadians would stand along the border while health care workers jab them.

Were not trying to send a man to the moon here. Were using the infrastructure to accomplish a shared goal, Dilkens told the Detroit Free Press. This is a sensible, reasonable alternative to vaccines heading to the landfill.

Motor vehicle travel between the countries is prohibited during the pandemic except for commercial truck traffic and workers deemed essential. Dilkens said partnering with Michigan, which has a vaccine surplus, would reduce the waiting time for Canadians who need a second shot.

But the Canada Border Services Agency told Dilkens that the tunnel clinic could disrupt travel and carry significant security implications.

Separately, Public Health Agency of Canada warned there could be trouble if the person giving the shot reached across the tunnel's white line into Canada.

A vaccine cannot be imported into Canadian space without the express consent of Health Canada, said Kathy Thompson, executive vice president at the agency.

More than 500,000 vaccine doses held by Michigan are set to expire by early August, said Lynn Sutfin, spokeswoman at the state health department.

Its dead, Dilkens said of his plan. Our government will not let this happen.
HONG KONG/PARIS (Reuters) - The Cannes Film Festival will show a new documentary on Friday chronicling the 2019 Hong Kong pro-democracy protests and shining a light on protesters' stories, in a surprise addition to the line-up for the cinema showcase.

"Revolution of Our Times," by native Hong Kong filmmaker Kiwi Chow, follows several protesters and documents clashes with police, in what the director previously described to Reuters as his attempt to help the movement live on.

China introduced a sweeping national security law a year ago to crack down on what it deems subversion, secessionism, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces, and cinemas, universities and art galleries have cancelled screenings or exhibitions of protest-related works.

The Hong Kong government recently enacted new guidelines that allow authorities to censor films on the basis of safeguarding national security.

"Being able to have a premiere in the Cannes festival is a good chance to let the world know that there are still people persisting in Hong Kong," Chow told Reuters. "I hope they can understand what happened in 2019 and bring some inspiration to the world."

Chow said he worked freely on the documentary, without trying to think about any potential backlash.

"I try my best to ignore whether the documentary will cross the red line," he said.

Cannes organisers said they had kept the screening under wraps in part as the film was not fully finished until the last minute, but had been interested ever since seeing early clips.

"We're proud to put forward this film, through which cinema can shine a light on an important moment in world news," Cannes festival director Thierry Fremaux said in a statement.

Chow has made feature films, including dystopian film "Ten Years: Self Immolator" in 2015 and romantic drama "Beyond The Dream," which was released in Hong Kong theatres last year.

He told Reuters in June that he was inspired to turn his camera to the protests when he, too, became an activist in 2019 and saw city workers such as cleaners in small acts of resistance.

(Reporting by Jessie Pang and Sarah White; Editing by Leslie Adler)
ANNAPOLIS, Md.  Three years and 17 days after the mass shooting, an Anne Arundel County jury ruled Thursday the man who killed five Capital Gazette employees was sane, and therefore criminally responsible, during the attack that shocked the tight-knit town of Annapolis and that he is culpable for his crimes.

Their verdict brings closer to a conclusion the legal case stemming from the June 28, 2018, murders of Gerald Fischman, Rob Hiaasen, John McNamara, Rebecca Smith and Wendi Winters. Six people survived the attack, which has been billed as the deadliest attack ever on an American newsroom.

Now, Jarrod Ramos, 41, will almost certainly spend the rest of his life in prison. At sentencing, prosecutors are seeking at least five life sentences without the possibility of parole.

His trial had been delayed more than half a dozen times. First it was postponed as he and his lawyers explored the rarely utilized insanity defense. Then, one of the public defenders withdrew from the case because of health concerns. Another delay happened after he pleaded guilty to every count in the indictment. And again, twice, because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The sanity proceeding officially began one day after the third anniversary of the shooting  and about a decade after his and the papers paths first crossed.

At trial, Ramos attorneys argued he was insane at the time of the crime because a combination of mental conditions led him to become obsessed with the newspaper after it covered his 2011 harassment conviction and developed delusions that the courts were persecuting him, too, as they rejected a deluge of defamation lawsuits and repeated appeals.

Prosecutors contended Ramos was a calculated and callous criminal who killed because he wanted revenge, not because he was mentally ill. They said he never got over the article about him because of his narcissistic personality. Hed fantasized about attacking the paper since 2013, but began plotting his strike meticulously after the courts rejected his last appeal in 2016.

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As predicted, the case hinged upon the conflicting testimony of mental health experts: Four psychiatrists, three psychologists and a neurologist testified at Ramos trial.

Dr. Sameer Patel, a forensic psychiatrist with the Maryland Department of Health who evaluated Ramos for the court, and Dr. Gregory Saathoff, a psychiatrist at the University of Virginia and for the FBI who prosecutors retained, stepped up to the stand to say Ramos was sane. Their opinions cited overwhelming evidence of planning and lawful behavior ahead of the awful attack.

A psychiatrist who dedicated decades to studying the countrys most violent criminals, Dr. Dorothy Lewis served as the outlier. Ramos couldnt have pursued the insanity plea without her opinion.

She diagnosed Ramos with obsessive compulsive disorder, delusional disorder and autism spectrum disorder. Lewis said the first disorder allowed him to become fixated, the second prompted him to lose touch with reality and the latter prevented him from appreciating the extent of pain he caused.

Prosecutors raised doubts during Lewis testimony that she understood the legal insanity standard in Maryland. Judge Michael Wachs acknowledged he wasnt convinced but said he wouldnt strike her testimony because of the possibility of an appeal.

Ramos own sister testified at trial. Michelle Jeans offered one of the few looks into his mostly isolated life. She told of how her already awkward brother became consumed by clearing his name via the courts and estranged from the rest of the family  including her, eventually.

But survivor after survivor of the shooting stepped up to the witness stand, saying how Ramos moved methodically about the office suite like a man on a mission. They recalled witnessing their colleagues die and holding their breath beneath desks in fear that theyd face the next blast from the barrel of his tactical shotgun.

Patels testimony proved pivotal. Having spent more time with Ramos than any other expert, he provided haunting details about the gunmans motivations, his chilling thoughts during the attack and the extent to which he went to ensure he wouldnt get hurt by responding police officers. Patel said there existed no mental health condition that could excuse his conduct.
The FBI used this picture in its documents against Josiah Colt. Feds say he joined people storming the Senate chamber at the Capitol on January 06, 2021. Win McNamee/Getty Images

A man pictured dangling from the Senate gallery has pleaded guilty in the Capitol riot, per reports.

Josiah Colt admitted to obstruction and will cooperate with feds against other accused rioters.

He was also pictured sitting in what he thought was Nancy Pelosi's chair, court documents say.

See more stories on Insider's business page.

A man who was pictured dangling from the Senate gallery during the Capitol riot has pleaded guilty, and is willing to cooperate against other accused rioters, according to The Washington Post.

Josiah Colt, a supporter of former President Donald Trump, was facing up to five years in jail, but hopes to reduce that with his plea, the Post reported.

He admitted one count of obstruction, Law & Crime reported, in return for which prosecutions dropped several other charges.

Colt, 34 from Idaho, was accused of entering the Capitol on January 6, court documents seen by Insider say. He was identified by the FBI as the man pictured dangling from the Senate balcony.

Per the FBI, he later sat in what he believed was House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's chair. It actually belonged to then-Vice President Mike Pence.

He admitted bringing a pistol to DC, but said he left it in his hotel room on the day of the riot, The Post reported.

Another picture prosecutors say shows Josiah Colt in the Senate chamber at the Capitol on January 06, 2021. Win McNamee/Getty Images

Colt apologized in a statement to CBS2 News the next day, saying that he got "caught up in the moment."

"I said my peace then I helped a gentlemen get to safety that was injured then left," he wrote. He claimed he had tried to prevent other protesters from doing damage to the Capitol, which he called "sacred ground."

Colt has not admitted being part of any paramilitary group, but traveled to Washington DC with two other men the night before after crowdfunding for the trip, prosecutors say.

Case files show a Facebook post by one of his companions, Ronnie Sandlin, appearing to associate the men with the armed, far-right Boogaloo movement. A picture shows Colt masked and asleep with a gun in his hand, with a caption reading: "My fellow patriot Josiah Colt sleeping ready for the boogaloo Jan 6th."

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Boogaloo is also used as a slang term for violent uprising. Colt commented underneath "Ready for any battle," with a laughing-crying emoji.

Colt denies any association with paramilitary movements and said in court that the post was a joke, according to Law & Crime, which cited him as saying: "Taken out of context, it looks worse than it is."

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Colt was turned in by a family member who tipped off the FBI and confirmed he was the man in the pictures, prosecutors say.

Read the original article on Business Insider
By Fabian Cambero and Aislinn Laing

SANTIAGO (Reuters) -A Chilean judge ordered on Thursday the release of two delegates to Chile's constitutional convention shortly after they were detained during a protest over political prisoners, according to a court filing.

Armed police wearing helmets and flak jackets hauled off the two delegates, Alejandra Perez and Manuel Woldarsky, early Thursday afternoon in a chaotic scene relayed on video uploaded to social media. Protesters screamed at security forces as the representatives were loaded onto a truck with other detainees.

A judge shortly after ordered the delegates be released, together with nine other protesters, stating that security forces had failed to respect the "right of expression and assembly established in the Constitution," according to the court filing.

Both delegates confirmed on social media that they had been freed following their brief detention. The situation, however, led leaders of the constitutional convention to postpone the afternoon's session.

Chile's Carabinero police force did not respond to a request for comment on the case.

The delegates belong to the Lista del Pueblo, a group of independent representatives to Chile's newly elected constitutional convention who are not affiliated with existing political parties. The group garnered the third largest number of votes during the election of representatives, behind left- and right- leaning coalitions.

"We went to accompany the mothers of political prisoners in a peaceful protest when we were invaded by this contingent (of the police)," said Rodrigo Rojas, another member of the movement who attended the protest.

Perez and Woldarsky had joined a group of protesters that say the Chilean government took political prisoners during massive, and sometimes violent, demonstrations over inequality that took place in late 2019. The government has rejected the allegations that the detentions were politically-motivated.

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Those protests opened the door to a referendum last October in which Chileans voted to rewrite the current constitution - drafted during Augusto Pinochet's 1973-1990 military dictatorship.

The 155-strong constitutional convention is dominated by independent candidates, some of them with roots in the 2019 protests.

(Reporting by Aislinn Laing and Fabian Cambero; Writing by Dave Sherwood; Editing by Alex Richardson)
By Aislinn Laing

SANTIAGO (Reuters) -The leaders of a Chilean late-stage human trial of the CoronaVac COVID-19 vaccine developed by China's Sinovac on Thursday recommended a third dose of the jab to protect against the more contagious Delta variant.

The trial leaders said a separate in vitro laboratory trial to determine the vaccine's effectiveness against the Delta strain of the virus showed that neutralizing antibodies reduced four-fold compared to those produced against the original coronavirus strain first found in China.

Chinese scientists have previously reported a smaller three-fold reduction.

Dr Alexis Kalergis, the director of Chile's Millennium Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy which also ran a clinical trial with 2,000 participants, said less 3% had contracted COVID-19 six months after receiving a second vaccine shot.

However, the study showed a drop-off in protective antibody levels after six months and Kalergis said he recommended the application of a third, "booster dose" to provide better protection against virus mutations.

"The natural decrease in antibodies after vaccination highlights the need to strengthen immunity with booster doses to compensate and enhance the neutralization of the virus," he said.

Many countries from China to Indonesia and Brazil rely heavily on Chinese vaccines for protection against COVID-19, but questions have been raised about whether they provide enough protection against the Delta variant.

Sinovac spokesman Liu Peicheng has previously told Reuters that a booster shot could quickly elicit stronger and more durable antibody reaction against the Delta variant, but did not provide detailed data.

Thailand said Monday it will use AstraZeneca Plc's COVID-19 vaccine as a second dose for those who received Sinovac's shot as their first dose in a bid to increase protection.

Kalergis also noted that Chilean trial participants issued doses 28 days apart had a "more robust immunity" than those who received doses 14 days apart.

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Chile has bet big on CoronaVac, using it to roll out one of the world's fastest vaccination campaigns.

So far, it has issued 18.1 million CoronaVac doses, as well as vaccines developed by Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca and Cansino, and has fully inoculated 76% of its adult population.

(Reporting by Aislinn Laing; Editing by Richard Pullin)
Rescuers are trying to pump water out of the tunnel

A rescue mission is under way to save 14 workers trapped in a flooded tunnel being built in southern China.

Teams are pumping water out of the highway tunnel to find the workers who were caught when it collapsed in the early hours of Thursday.

Hundreds of rescuers, along with 22 fire trucks and five pumping stations, are trying to locate the workers.

Investigators are trying to discover what caused the flooding at the tunnel in Zhuhai, Guangdong province.

Construction workers heard strange noises about 1km (0.6 miles) inside the tunnel, officials say.

An evacuation was ordered at around at 03:30 local time (19:30 GMT on Wednesday), but water began gushing into the tunnel and 14 of the workers could not make it out.

"We feel deeply guilty and deeply blame ourselves," said Yan Dawu, deputy general manager of the construction company.

The area where they were working is under a reservoir, according to reports.

The local fire department has dispatched 19 vehicles and 100 people to take part in the rescue effort, and crews have arrived from other areas, China's Global Times reported.

A rescue headquarters has been set up at the site, local media say.

In March, two workers were killed in the same tunnel when a wall caved in and they were struck by falling stones.

The Xingye Highway Express Line is a highway that runs north to south through Zhuhai city, according to local media.

Click here to see the BBC interactive
Only Facebook knows for sure what's popular on its platform at any given moment. The rest of us, viewing our individual feeds and seeing only how our own posts fare, are left to guess.

Facebook could change that by giving the world real-time windows onto the social network. But it has long resisted doing so  and new reports suggest it's afraid greater transparency will just make it look bad.

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Driving the news: A New York Times column by Kevin Roose describes a debate inside the company over whether to expand CrowdTangle, a tool Facebook offers that provides data on posts' performance.

Roose had long used CrowdTangle, a startup Facebook acquired in 2016, to compile regular Top 10 lists of Facebook posts and share them on Twitter. The lists are almost always dominated by right-wing authors and news outlets.

CrowdTangle measures only posts' engagement  whether people click on or react to them. Facebook regularly criticized Roose's posts by saying that more accurate lists could be compiled by looking at reach  how many people actually see a post.

One problem: Reach data is only available to Facebook's own staff.

The upshot: Advocates of sharing reach data with the public lost the debate inside Facebook, Roose reports, and now the company is splitting up the CrowdTangle team.

Current and former employees told Roose that "Facebooks executives were more worried about fixing the perception that Facebook was amplifying harmful content than figuring out whether it actually was amplifying harmful content."

Why it matters: Facebook content shapes much of popular political opinion in the U.S. and globally. That has turned the social network into the information battlefield of our time  but it's shrouded by the fog of war, and only Facebook can change that.

Yes, but: Whatever controversies Facebook's transparency efforts provoke, Facebook still offers more engagement data than rivals like YouTube and TikTok provide.

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Facebook continues to make CrowdTangle available and says CrowdTangle's reorganization is aimed at improving it.

"The entire point was to better integrate CrowdTangle into the product team focused on transparency," Facebook spokesperson Joe Osborne said in a statement.

Between the lines: Roose's portrait of a Facebook leadership more focused on protecting its image than sharing the truth found echoes in the publication last week of "The Ugly Truth," a critical book about the company by two other New York Times reporters.

According to "The Ugly Truth," during the crisis within Facebook following revelations of Russian meddling in the 2016 election, top executives took a "blame the messenger" approach when they learned that an investigation by their security head had been tracking Russian-sponsored misinformation.

The big picture: "Transparency" is an oft-stated aim for Facebook, but, like most large corporations, the social network wants to retain the ability to choose and shape the stories its data tells the world.

Facebook's reluctance to publicize reach data, like Google's resistance to revealing details of its search algorithm formula, may also stem from fears that more the public knows about how its platform works, the easier it is for bad actors to game it.

Facebook also has a record of conflict and delays in efforts to provide academic researchers with data.

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Iowa Department of Criminal Investigations/Court TV

Defense attorneys representing Mollie Tibbetts convicted killer presented more bombshell new claims on Thursday, a day after a judge delayed sentencing due to new information pointing to other potential suspects.

Cristhian Bahena Rivera, an undocumented farmworker, was convicted in May of abducting the University of Iowa student while she was out jogging, killing her, and dumping her in a cornfield. He maintains that he was abducted by two masked men, who forced him to help them kidnap and kill Tibbettsa story the jury ultimately didnt buy.

But, in a July 8 motion, his attorneys said two people came forward separately after seeing Bahana Riveras testimony on TV to corroborate parts of his story. One was an inmate, Arni Maki, who said another inmate named Gavin Jones had admitted to kidnapping Tibbetts for sex trafficking, keeping her in a trap house run by a 50-year-old man named James Low, then killing her when the publicity around the case blew up and plotting to blame it on a random Hispanic person.

Sentencing Delayed in Mollie Tibbetts Case After Bombshell New Info Emerges

The second person was Jones ex-girlfriend, who came forward to say that Jones had once held a gun to her head and admitted he killed Tibbetts. Jail records and court records confirm the relationships between Jones and Maki, and Jones and his ex-girlfriend, defense attorneys Jennifer and Chad Frese said.

On Thursday, the attorneys revealed that they only found out after the trial that another woman was picked up by an Iowa state trooper on the side of Highway 92 in 2019. She told authorities that she had been introduced to Low at a Caseys store in Brooklyn, Iowa, in May 2018 and was lured back to a trap house where she was then drugged and prostituted nightly for weeks.

Tibbetts vanished from the same town two months later in a case that was seized upon politically due to the suspects undocumented status.

This woman indicated that she was in a room by herself but that she could hear voices of other women, and voices of men, and Low talking in the morning saying, Did you have a good time, was it worth it? Jennifer Frese said. This woman was deemed credible, as law enforcement requested from a magistrate a search warrant and they were granted a search warrant for James Lows residence.

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Low was taken into custody last week by federal authorities on unrelated illegal weapons charges and hasnt been charged in relation to any missing persons cases.

However, Chad Frese said investigators never provided them with information about their investigation into Low, or the second womans abductioninformation he believes may be exculpatory for Bahena Rivera.

They had that two years prior on trial, he said. They sat on information.

Mollie Tibbetts Accused Killer: Armed, Masked Men Put Her Body in My Trunk

Low was recently named a suspect in the disappearance of an 11-year-old Montezuma, Iowa, boy named Xavior Harrelson, who vanished in May this year and hasnt been found.

We have information that three people have vanished out of thin air in this small rural county, Jennifer Frese said. Mollie Tibbetts, Xavior Harrelson, and the woman that reported being abducted in May of 2018 and sex trafficked.

Chad Frese added, Theres something rotten in this area and [prosecutors] dont want to help us provide any information.

But prosecutor Scott Brown said Thursday there was zero evidence linking the three cases, and prosecutors would strongly resist any effort to help dig up new evidence.

They want to go and knock themselves out trying to find out all this confusing information thats just been presented to the court, go right ahead and do it, he said Thursday. But there is nothing in the rules, nothing in the case law, that compels the state to chase its tail because theyre asking us to do it.

He said previous jailhouse statements by Maki had been passed on to the Freses before trial but they apparently were uninterested because the statements didnt line up with some of what Bahena Rivera had said.

Theyve got buyer's remorse when it comes with this information, he said.

Judge Joel Yates indicated Thursday he may set a date for a hearing on whether a new trial is warranted.

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Delta Air Lines is lamenting the unfortunate naming of a new COVID-19 variant. VanderWolf Images / Shutterstock.com and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Delta Air Lines does not use the name of the new COVID-19 variant named "delta" by the World Health Organization.

CEO Ed Bastian told the Wall Street Journal "we just call it the variant."

The Greek alphabet is used when naming variants to discourage stigmatization based on their country of origin.

See more stories on Insider's business page.

Delta Air Lines has joined Corona beer in the exclusive club of brands that have been wronged by the naming of the novel coronavirus and its variants.

Among the latest variants of the novel coronavirus is B.1.617.2 variant, better known as the "delta" variant. The World Health Organization began giving variants official names based on letters of the Greek alphabet to reduce stigmatizing names based on country of origin.

The delta variant, for example, was first discovered in India and has been known for being more easily transmissible than predecessors, even among vaccinated individuals. Dr. Scott Gottlieb, the former head of the Food and Drug Administration, believes the Delta variant will peak in late September, as Insider's Dr. Catherine Schuster-Bruce reported, as it's now the dominant strain in the US.

But Delta Air Lines isn't amused at the irony and its chief executive officer, Ed Bastian, told the Wall Street Journal that they don't call the delta variant by its WHO-given name. "We just call it the variant," Bastian said.

Dr. Henry Ting, Delta's chief health officer, first joked about the association in a June tweet when replying to a customer that joked the variant should be named after rival United Airlines. "We prefer to call it the B.1.617.2 variant since that is so much more simple to say and remember" Ting tweeted on June 29.

Corona, the Mexican beer brand, was famously the butt of jokes in the early days of the coronavirus pandemic. One tagline, "it's corona time," was also co-opted by meme creators throughout the pandemic.

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Delta just posted a $776 million GAAP pre-tax profit for the second quarter of 2021 that was largely attributed to an increase in leisure flyers and the opening of more international destinations to Americans. Daily passengers numbers reported by the Transportation Security Administration similarly continue to climb despite the rampaging delta variant.

Read More: Airline workers have lower rates of COVID-19 than the general population - and airline CEOs say it's proof that flying is safe

More aircraft are also joining the Delta fleet to cater to the increased demand. Delta just announced an order for 29 Boeing 737-900ER and 7 Airbus A350-900XWB aircraft, all acquired second-hand.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The highly contagious delta variant, also known as B.1.617.2, is a big concern for South Carolina, state health officials said.

The variant, first detected in India last year, has spread rapidly across the globe and now accounts for more than half of all new COVID-19 cases in the United States.

Because the delta strain is so transmissible, states with low vaccination rates, like South Carolina, are particularly vulnerable, S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control officials said.

As of Thursday, only 43.5% of eligible South Carolina residents had been inoculated, according to DHEC data.

While only a small number of delta cases have been identified in South Carolina to date, DHEC officials fear the variant, which is driving COVID-19 spikes in other parts of the country with comparable vaccination rates, could soon spark an outbreak in the Palmetto State.

Missouri is having a frightening surge in COVID-19 cases, overwhelming some of their hospital systems, and 96% of those new cases are delta variant, assistant state epidemiologist Jane Kelly said during a media briefing last week. We dont want that happening here. We need to increase our statewide vaccination rates.

Heres what you need to know about the delta variant in South Carolina.

Why is delta more concerning than other COVID-19 variants?

Delta has multiple mutations that make it more contagious and better able to evade the bodys immune defenses, giving it an advantage over other strains.

This particular delta variant is faster, it is fitter, it will pick off the more vulnerable more efficiently than previous variants, and therefore if there are people left without vaccination, they remain even at further risk, Mike Ryan, executive director of the World Health Organizations health emergencies program, said last month.

Scientists estimate the delta variant is between 40% and 60% more transmissible than the alpha variant, which itself is 50% more transmissible than the original coronavirus strain identified in Wuhan, China.

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Delta also appears to sidestep part of the bodys vaccine-induced immune response, leading to lower efficacy rates for the COVID-19 shots currently on the market.

More research is needed to determine whether delta causes more severe illness than other coronavirus strains, but experts regard it as more dangerous because it can burn through unvaccinated populations quickly due to its hyper-transmissibility.

The most important thing thats different about the delta variant is how much easier it is to spread, Kelly said. Its got a better spike protein adhesion factor, so its just better to adhere and get into cells.

Does the delta variant cause different symptoms?

Some evidence suggests delta variant symptoms differ somewhat from the symptoms most commonly associated with COVID-19, such as fever, cough and loss of taste or smell.

Headaches, sore throats and runny noses are more common in delta cases, according to data collected in Britain, where the variant comprises nearly all new cases.

Overall, however, the symptoms remain similar.

Kelly, the DHEC epidemiologist, said she believed the difference in deltas reported symptoms was likely the result of ascertainment bias, which occurs when the data sampled is not representative of the target population.

Theres nothing about the delta variant that makes me think from a biological point of view or from a medical point of view that it should cause different symptoms or a different presentation, she said.

Robert Bollinger, an infectious disease doctor at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, surmised that the variation in symptoms may have more to do with the people being infected than the virus itself.

People getting infected now are a lot younger than they were with the earlier variants, because the older people are vaccinated at a much higher rate, he told the LA Times. So are some of the differences that are being reported related to the virus, or just the fact that its younger people getting infected? I dont think we really know that yet.

How many delta cases are there in South Carolina?

As of July 7, DHEC had confirmed 12 delta cases in South Carolina, two more than the week prior. (DHEC updates the number of variants identified in the state every Friday).

Seven of the 12 confirmed delta cases were in the Lowcountry, four were in the Midlands and one was found in the Pee Dee region. No delta cases have been identified in the Upstate, according to DHEC.

Because COVID-19 cases must be genomically sequenced to identify their characteristics, and the state sequences only a tiny fraction of its cases, the true number of delta cases in South Carolina is undoubtedly greater than 12.

We know that there are more instances of the delta variant in our state than what weve identified since not every COVID-positive sample is sequenced for variants, Kelly said last week. We know delta variant is here. Were concerned its going to spread quickly just as it has done in other states with low vaccination rates.

Of the 195 samples sequenced at DHECs public health laboratory in June, 78% were identified as variants of concern, a designation the CDC uses to describe strains that show evidence of increased transmissibility, more severe disease or resistance to vaccines or medical treatments.

Just over 5% of the variants of concern DHEC identified were of the delta variety.

State health officials could not immediately provide the percentage of delta samples sequenced this month, but it is believed to have increased.

We are at 10% (delta), but are starting to see that were going regionally significantly higher, Dr. Helmut Albrecht, medical director of the Center for Infectious Diseases Research and Policy at Prisma Health and the University of South Carolina, said Wednesday. It will be the predominant strain in South Carolina, as well, within the next couple weeks.

How effective are vaccines against the delta variant?

All three coronavirus vaccines on the market in the United States are highly protective against delta.

A series of recent studies conducted in Britain, Scotland and Canada found that two doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine were between 79% and 88% effective against the variant.

Moderna and Johnson & Johnson also have announced that their vaccines remain protective against delta, albeit with slight drops in potency.

A single shot of the Pfizer vaccine, however, was only 33% effective against symptomatic delta cases, the Public Health England study found. Thats down from a 50% one-dose efficacy against the alpha variant, the health agency reported.

A study published last month in the journal Nature also found significant differences in the immune responses of people who had received just one vaccine dose compared to two. Only 13% of people effectively neutralized the delta variant after a single dose of the Pfizer vaccine, but 94% were able to do so after two doses, researchers found.

When it comes to the delta variant, Its very clear that one shot of the mRNA vaccines  the Pfizers and the Modernas  is not enough, Albrecht said.

Will booster shots be needed to combat the delta variant?

The short answer is not at this time, but possibly in the future.

Israel recently began offering COVID-19 booster shots to its most vulnerable citizens after its Ministry of Health released data showing that the Pfizer vaccine was only 64% effective at preventing all coronavirus infections, down from 95% in May, before delta became widespread.

Pfizer, which said its own studies are consistent with Israels findings, last week announced plans to seek U.S. authorization for a third COVID-19 vaccine dose to boost immunity and protect against the delta variant.

Federal health officials responded to the companys announcement by reiterating that booster shots for fully vaccinated Americans were not currently necessary.

We continue to review any new data as it becomes available and will keep the public informed, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said last week in a joint statement. We are prepared for booster doses if and when the science demonstrates that they are needed.

DHEC has echoed federal health experts on the issue of booster shots.

Some individuals who have severe immunocompromise, for example people who are organ transplant recipients, have benefited from getting a third shot to increase their immune response, Kelly said last week. But for the general public, theres no need for booster shots at this time.

What are DHEC recommendations for protecting against delta?

The public health recommendations for protection against the delta variant are the same as for any coronavirus strain, Kelly said.

Wear a mask, avoid crowded public settings, keep your distance, wash your hands, she said. But the most-effective thing you can do, by far, is get vaccinated.

While the World Health Organization last month recommended that fully vaccinated people wear face masks and practice social distancing due to the delta variants spread, neither the CDC nor DHEC has adopted similar masking guidance for vaccinated individuals.

Michael Sweat, director of the COVID-19 Epidemiology Intelligence Project at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, said he agrees with the CDCs decision on masks.

The vaccine really does work well against this variant, he said. There is a risk youre going to catch it and get sick, but youre not likely to get a very serious infection.

This story will be updated.
Senate Democrats have a new pay-for to finance a "soft" infrastructure bill: renegotiating Medicare prescription drug prices to save $600 billion  setting up a battle between progressives and well-capitalized drug companies.

Why it matters: By targeting pharma, Democrats are opening up a funding stream President Biden didn't initially include in his $4 trillion Build Back Better agenda. It relied on hiking taxes on corporations and Americans earning over $400,000.

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Democrats also pick a fight with an industry prepared to spend millions to fend off attempts to alter its lucrative reimbursement rates.

Using drug-price savings to finance an already complex legislative package adds another powerful player to a game with no margin for error  complicating final passage of the legislation.

What they are saying: It's time that the pharmaceutical industry realizes that the federal budget is not a cow to be milked, Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) told Axios.

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), chair of the Senate Budget Committee, not only confirmed the $600 billion figure but suggested it was slightly higher.

"I am definitely in favor of saving money from pharmaceutical drug prices," said Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.). I think Medicare should be competitive. Its bullshit that Medicaid is and Medicare is not. That doesnt make any sense at all.

The federal government already exerts its considerable market power to negotiate down Medicaid drug prices.

The big picture: Renegotiating Medicare drug prices has long been a goal of Democratic politics, but the industry has successfully thwarted efforts to cut its profits.

In May, the path ahead for the Houses drug pricing bill  HR 3, the technical name for a measure allowing Medicare to negotiate prices  suffered a blow when 10 centrist Democrats signaled their opposition in a letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.).

In the Senate, any bill would face an even heavier lift, because it would require the support of all 50 Democrats.

Driving the news: Democrats are proceeding with a two-track infrastructure process: a $579 billion infrastructure "hard" package to pay for roads and bridges, and a Democrat-only, $3.5-trillion, tax-and-spending plan covering other concerns like climate change and child care.

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Biden paid Senate Democrats a lunchtime visit Wednesday to sell both packages. "Were going to get this done," he later told reporters.

Democrats working on the bipartisan component insist they're closing in on a deal, Axios' Alayna Treene reports.

"I am optimistic that we can resolve the remaining issues and be in a place for floor action next week," Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.) said.

Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.), a key negotiator, echoed the same timeline.

Between the lines: The industry is counting on Democrats like Sen. Bob Menendez (N.J.), whose state is home to many drug companies, to fend off any challenges. Menendez was noncommittal.

"I got to look at the whole package," he told Axios.

"They will be at the table and participate in some way. What this is, and whats the amount? Thats an open question."

His Democratic colleague from New Jersey, Sen. Cory Booker, appeared more open to the proposal.

"Its an aberration of the free market not to be able to negotiate for drug prices," Booker told Axios.

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Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis suggested Tuesday that Florida-based companies should attempt to provide internet access to Cuba after the communist country shut off the internet to suppress recent protests and dissent.

"What does the regime do when you start to see these images?" DeSantis said during a press conference referring to videos coming out of Cuba showing violent government crackdowns against anti-communist protesters in the streets. "They shut down the internet. They dont want the truth to be out, they dont want people to be able to communicate."

LIVE UPDATES: CUBA'S CRACKDOWN DOESN'T SILENCE PROTESTERS, GOVERNMENT CONFIRMS 1 MAN DEAD

DeSantis continued, "And so one of the things I think we should be able to do with our private companies or with the United States is to provide some of that internet via satellite. We have companies on the Space Coast that launch these things."

The Florida Republican said that he would reach out to some Florida internet providers to "see what are the options" to make his plan a reality.

DeSantiss office did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fox News.

CUBAN AMERICAN PROTESTERS SHUT DOWN EXPRESSWAY IN MIAMI, BLAME BIDEN FOR LACK OF SUPPORT

Thousands of Cubans have taken to the streets to oppose the communist government that has had a stranglehold on power for the last six decades, and the government reported that at least one person has died.

Cubas president, Miguel Diaz-Canel, has blamed the United States for the turmoil and called for his supporters to take to the streets to fight back against the protests .

"We are prepared to do anything," he said. "We will be battling in the streets."

The unrest in Cuba has spilled into the United States, where protesters in support of Cuban independence took to the streets in Tampa, Florida and called on President Biden to take action .

"Where is Biden?" the protesters could be heard chanting. "Where is Biden?"

Story continues

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Biden released a statement earlier this week that said, "We stand with the Cuban people and their clarion call for freedom and relief from the tragic grip of the pandemic and from the decades of repression and economic suffering to which they have been subjected by Cuba's authoritarian regime."

On Tuesday, Bidens Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas warned Cubans that if they attempt to flee the island nation they will not be welcomed into the United States and will instead be settled somewhere else.

"The time is never right to attempt migration by sea," Mayorkas said at a press conference. "To those who risk their lives doing so, this risk is not worth taking. Allow me to be clear. If you take to the sea, you will not come to the United States."
An air tanker drops fire retardant on the Dixie fire in the Feather River Canyon in Plumas County. (Paul Kitagaki Jr. / Sacramento Bee)

While the Sugar fire in Plumas neared the 100,000-acre milestone, firefighters on Thursday were continuing their efforts to contain the Dixie fire in Butte County.

Officials estimated the size of the Dixie fire at 2,250 acres, according to fire Capt. Jacob Gilliam of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection in Butte County. The blaze has had no containment.

Gilliam said the fire was burning in the scar of the 2018 Camp fire, but moving north, away from populated areas.

Still, the smoke and flames are stoking traumatic memories for some who survived that terrible fire, which decimated the town of Paradise and killed more than 85 people.

"It's kind of nerve-racking," said David Little of the North Valley Community Foundation, which provides relief and recovery efforts for the Camp fire victims. "The fire started just a couple of miles [away], on the same road, as the Camp fire in 2018. It's really a sense of deja vu that's uneasy."

Gilliam said about 350 firefighters and support personnel were assigned to the blaze Thursday. Their priority will be the fire's southwestern perimeter, which is closest to the county's populated areas.

"There's a history of a strong down-canyon winds in that Jarbo Gap area, and so firefighters are really trying to secure that south and west flank," he said.

Meteorologist Eric Kurth with the National Weather Service in Sacramento said temperatures near the fire will be in the upper 80s Thursday. Fairly typical wind gusts of up to 17 mph can be expected.

Mandatory evacuation orders were in effect for the High Lakes area, and warnings were extended to the Rock Creek and Robin areas, the Plumas County Sheriff's Office said.

Evacuation warnings were also extended in the Philbrook area to the Plumas County line, the Butte County Sheriff's Office said. An evacuation warning remains in place for the Pulga and east Concow areas.

Meanwhile, the Sugar fire in Plumas National Forest continued to grow Wednesday afternoon after conditions grounded firefighting aircraft and spot fires spread across the west side of Frenchman Boulevard, officials said.

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In a morning briefing, U.S. Forest Service operations section chief Jake Cagle said the afternoon brought wind gusts of over 35 mph, and the fire began generating fire whirls.

"Unfortunately, due to the wind and the smoke visibility, we had to set down our aircraft," which enabled the spot fires to become more established, he said.

As of Thursday morning, the fire had swelled to 99,937 acres, on the brink of becoming the state's first 100,000-acre "mega-fire" of the year.

The Sugar fire is part of the Beckwourth Complex, which also contains the 594-acre Dotta fire that is 99% contained. Combined, they have already surpassed the 100,000-acre threshold.

In the path of the fires, the Lassen County Sheriff's Office expanded mandatory evacuation order to areas including Doyle Proper on the west side of U.S. 395, from Laura Drive to County Road A26. Previously issued evacuation orders for other parts of Doyle remain in place.

The Sugar fire was 68% contained Thursday morning, officials said.

California's ongoing drought is only adding to firefighters' challenges during an already active fire season, officials said, contributing to bone-dry vegetation that ignites easily and spreads fire fast.

Although the Dixie fire is within the Camp fire burn scar, Gilliam said there is plenty of dry brush and grass to fuel the flames.

"Even though they're younger fuels  just several years old  it's still very dry, and it's burning," he said.

Firefighters are defending the same containment lines against the Dixie fire that they used in the Camp fire, he said.

Those who remember that 2018 fire hoped that would be the only similarity between the two blazes.

"We've dealt with enough stuff in this area," Little said, "and we don't need another one."

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Larry Nassar. Rena Laverty/AFP/Getty Images

A report released Wednesday by the Justice Department's inspector general found that the FBI made "numerous and fundamental" errors while investigating the "extraordinarily serious" allegations of sexual abuse made against Larry Nassar, the former national team doctor for USA Gymnastics.

In 2015, after USA Gymnastics conducted its own internal investigation into accusations of abuse, the organization's then-president, Stephen Penny, went to the FBI field office in Indianapolis to report the allegations. The report found that the Indianapolis agents failed to respond to the accusations with "the utmost seriousness and urgency that they deserved and required," and went months before launching an investigation.

Once the FBI probe did begin, agents made several missteps, including not interviewing gymnasts who wanted to meet, the report states. Later, the Indianapolis agents did not accept responsibility for the errors, and a supervisory special agent claimed that the allegations made against Nassar were "very vague" and Penny was "kind of a snake oil salesman kind of guy." The FBI said in a statement the "actions and inactions of certain FBI employees described in the report are inexcusable and a discredit to this organization."

Between the time the FBI was first told of the allegations and authorities in Michigan arrested Nassar on state charges, at least 40 girls and women say they were molested by Nassar. He was found guilty on federal child pornography and sexual abuse charges, and sentenced to decades in prison. Hundreds of girls and women have come forward to say Nassar abused them while he worked for USA Gymnastics and Michigan State.

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A former Iranian political prisoner, Ahmad Batebi, will join a delegation of Iranian dissidents on a goodwill mission to Israel next week, he told Fox News in an exclusive interview. He also attacked the Biden administration over its decision to reengage in negotiations with Iran on a nuclear deal.

Batebis critique follows the Biden administration's decision earlier this year to resume nuclear talks with Iran and comes just one day after the FBI said Iranian intelligence agents plotted to abduct an Iranian American journalist on U.S. soil.

"Negotiation is just the time you give them for making bombs, atomic bombs," Batebi said. "If the Biden administration continues this policy, definitely you will get a bad result, and Biden is responsible."

Batebi was arrested in 1999 while protesting against the oppressive Iranian regime. He was imprisoned for nearly a decade until he escaped and fled through Iraq. Batebi ultimately received asylum in the U.S.

BIDEN SAYS IRAN WILL NOT GET A NUCLEAR WEAPON ON HIS WATCH

"Yesterday, the FBI released a new statement, an important statement, about four Iranian Intelligence Service members in the United States who tried to kidnap an Iranian American journalist. They are here, they are in our home," Batebi, now a U.S. citizen, said.

"In Vienna, [the United States] has negotiations for a nuclear deal. How is it possible that the U.S government can accept that the Iranian regime comes here to kidnap an American, on American soil? And [on the] other side, they go talk to, you know, [to] this regime [on the] other side," Batebi told Fox News.

"It doesnt make sense," he continued.

Next week, Batebi will join over a dozen Iranian expatriates and dissidents on a historic trip to Israel to show solidarity with the Israeli people, who endured thousands of rocket attacks from Iranian-backed Hamas earlier this year.

Several former U.S. officials will accompany Batebi and the other dissidents, including Len Khodorkovsky, a former deputy assistant secretary and senior adviser at the State Department who said participants will meet with Israeli government officials, business leaders and civil society groups.

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Bijan R. Kian, a board member with the Institute for Voices of Liberty, which organized the trip, believes bringing free Iranians to Israel can help build a better future between the people of both nations.

"We organized this historic mission to Israel to show the solidarity of free Iranians with the people of Israel, and to separate freedom-seeking people of Iran from the criminal, inept and corrupt regime that has forced itself upon them," Kian said.

"We come to Israel in the spirit of Cyrus the Great, remembering our ancient bond of friendship and looking forward to building a better future, and strengthening the relationships between the people of Israel and the people of Iran in tomorrows free Iran," Kian continued.

Batebi told Fox News: "This is [the] first time that a group of non-Jewish Iranian people will go to Israel."

Despite decades of tension between Iran and Israel, Batebi said Iran "didnt have any problem with Israel" prior to the Islamic revolution. He said he's hopeful a cultural relationship between the people of both countries can improve relations.

"All these issues [are from] four decades of Islamic Republic in Iran," Batebi told Fox News. "I strongly believe cultural relationship can break this wall and cultural relationship can build up a new relationship for both countries."
Three Ethiopian regions previously untouched by the war in Tigray confirmed Thursday they were deploying forces to back military operations there, signalling a potential widening of the conflict.

The reinforcements are coming from Oromia -- Ethiopia's largest region -- as well as the Sidama and Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples' (SNNP) regions, according to official statements and state media reports.

The mobilisation follows Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's warning Wednesday that his forces would repel any attacks by its enemies, effectively tearing up a government-declared ceasefire on June 28.

"Oromia and Sidama regional special forces have moved towards the front line. The Sidama special forces have arrived at the front line," state-affiliated Fana Broadcasting Corporate reported, adding that SNNPR forces had arrived as well.

Abiy sent troops into Tigray last November, saying the move came in response to an assault on federal army camps ordered by the region's ruling party, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF).

The 2019 Nobel Peace Prize winner declared victory in late November, but fighting persisted and TPLF leaders remained on the run.

Then the war took a stunning turn in late June when rebels retook the Tigray capital Mekele and Abiy declared a unilateral ceasefire, pulling most troops from the region.

This week the rebels -- who have rebranded as the Tigray Defence Forces (TDF) -- launched a new offensive intended to drive ethnic Amhara forces off disputed territory in western and southern Tigray.

In response Amhara security forces and militias have mobilised en masse, and a spokesman for that region, Gizachew Muluneh, said Wednesday it was shifting to "attack" mode to reverse the rebels' battlefield gains.

- 'Stand united' -

AFP journalists who on Wednesday visited the town of Adi Arkay, near the Amhara-Tigray border, saw thousands of newly-mobilised Amhara militia fighters awaiting orders to advance.

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Officials in northern Amhara said they feared TDF fighters wanted to push south towards Addis Ababa and topple the government.

Oromia president Shimeles Abdisa said at a press conference that Tigrayan leaders wanted to "destabilise" the entire country.

"We condemn in the strongest terms possible those who are working hard to revitalise this terrorist group. We should stand united to do whatever it takes to incapacitate it," Shimeles said.

TDF spokesman Getachew Reda declared this week that the force would "liberate every square inch of Tigray".

Two days after the TDF took Mekele, he told AFP that its forces were prepared to march on Addis Ababa if that were necessary "to secure Tigray".

It was not clear Thursday how many troops from the various regions were being sent towards Tigray.

A military spokesman reached by phone declined to answer questions about ongoing operations.

rcb/txw/ri
BRUSSELS (AP)  The European Unions top court ruled Thursday that Polands way of disciplining judges is contrary to EU law, further straining relations between the bloc and its increasingly recalcitrant member state.

It was the latest development in a six-year dispute and the second major ruling in a week, coming on the heels of a Polish court saying that temporary injunctions issued by the EUs top court regarding the national judiciary and the constitution are not binding.

Over the past years, the Polish government has increasingly denounced EU action against its decisions on the judiciary as politically motivated.

The Luxembourg-based European Court of Justice said in a statement that the disciplinary regime for judges in Poland is not compatible with EU law.
Jul. 14A former Centerville Schools employee indicted last week on sexual battery charges was indicted Wednesday on additional charges.

Bryan Christopher Miller, 36, of Kettering, pleaded not guilty Wednesday in Montgomery County Common Pleas Court to seven counts of sexual battery, the same day he was indicted for additional charges of tampering with evidence and two counts of illegal use of a minor in a nudity-oriented material or performance.

Miller is accused of having a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old Centerville High School student in 2016, according to Greg Flannagan, Montgomery County Prosecutor's Office spokesman. His accuser is now 21, and the case was investigated by the Centerville Police Department, Flannagan said.

Miller was the Centerville High School Performing Arts Center technical director, a position that apparently has since been cut, and was named the 2017 Theatre Educator of the Year by the Ohio chapter of the Educational Theatre Association.

Miller also worked as a custodian at the high school, but he resigned effective April 1, according to minutes from the April 19 Board of Education meeting.

Miller is no longer in custody in the Montgomery County Jail after posting $50,000 bond, court records show.
BANGKOK (Reuters) - AstraZeneca is seeking to delay delivery of 61 million doses of its COVID-19 vaccines to Thailand by five months, a Thai official said Thursday, as the Southeast Asian country weighs vaccine export curbs to shore up domestic supplies.

At the centre of the drug maker's regional supply challenge is its local production partner Siam Bioscience, which has been shrouded in a veil of secrecy.

ROYAL OWNERSHIP

Siam Bioscience is owned by King Maha Vajiralongkorn, as part of his vast fortune including land and property estimated at between $30 and $60 billion. According to its shareholder list, the king holds all but two of its 48 million shares.

It was founded in 2009, with 4.8 billion baht ($147.19 million) in registered capital, according to commerce ministry data.

ASTRAZENECA CONTRACT

In October 2020, Siam Bioscience signed a letter of intent with the Thai health ministry and AstraZeneca to produce the COVID-19 vaccine for distribution in Southeast Asia.

Details of the contract have not been made public.

Thailand has relied mostly on AstraZeneca for its vaccine supply and has reserved 61 million doses with the company.

NEW TERRITORY

In January, Siam Bioscience's deal with AstraZeneca came under fire from a banned opposition politician, Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, who questioned why the contract went to a company that was owned by the king and had never made vaccines before.

AstraZeneca said at the time that Siam Bioscience had passed the same rigorous quality and capacity checks it conducts on its more than 20 licensed manufacturers worldwide.

In March, Thanathorn was charged with the crime of defaming the Thai monarchy over his comments on the king's company. The maximum penalty is 15 years in prison.

He has denied wrongdoing and said the government's legal action was politically motivated.

Siam Bioscience's website describes its business as developing and manufacturing biopharmaceutical products such as one that treats anaemia in patients with kidney disease.

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PRODUCTION PROBLEMS

Thai officials said earlier this year that AstraZeneca's Thai partner would supply 180 million to 200 million doses to Asian countries this year, including Thailand.

Siam Bioscience began vaccine delivery in June and had some initial production issues, prompting shipment delays to the Philippines, Malaysia and Taiwan. AstraZeneca on June 28 said it was on schedule to meet its Southeast Asia supply commitments and exports would start in July.

But Thailand's deputy health minister said on Thursday AstraZeneca's local facility currently had the capacity to make 15 million doses per month and it was promising to deliver 40% of the output to the country, adding that capacity could increase later.

That would amount to 6 million doses, below the previously agreed 10 million a month from July. A day earlier, Thailand said it was considering imposing limits on exports of locally manufactured AstraZeneca vaccines.

Siam Bioscience did not respond to Reuters requests on Thursday for comment.

AstraZeneca on Wednesday said export of the Thai-made vaccines were "of critical importance" to neighbouring countries. It did not respond on Thursday to a request for comment on its deliveries to Thailand.

($1 = 32.6500 baht)

(Reporting by Patpicha Tanakasempipat; Editing by Miyoung Kim, Martin Petty)
Earlier this year, Erkin Peksoz wanted a COVID-19 vaccine so badly that he drove 640 miles roundtrip from Chicago to Quincy to get a Johnson & Johnson shot.

Peksoz was happy with that decision  until recently, when the more contagious delta variant of the virus emerged. Now, hed like to get a shot of a Moderna or Pfizer vaccine, in hopes of increasing his protection.

Until delta, I was not worried at all, said Peksoz, a consumer data consultant who lives in Buena Park. I feel like Im half-vaccinated now.

In clinical trials before the delta variant began to spread, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine was found to be 66% effective at preventing COVID-19, while Pfizer and Moderna were 95% and 94%, respectively, although all three were found to be highly effective at preventing hospitalization and death from the illness.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and most experts are not recommending that people who received Johnson & Johnson vaccines, or any other vaccine, get booster shots. Still, a number of individuals who got Johnson & Johnson shots are starting to wonder if a booster might be a good idea, given the rapid spread of the delta variant, a handful of experts whove publicly recommended it and what theyre seeing in other countries.

Its become a topic of discussion on social media, and patients are asking their doctors for advice. Some have already gone to local pharmacies and gotten Moderna and Pfizer vaccines, even though they previously received Johnson & Johnson shots.

Were well aware of this going on, said Dr. Mia Taormina, chair of the department of infectious disease at DuPage Medical Group. Whats happening here is people are not being forthcoming. Theyve received Johnson & Johnson, theyre worried, and theyre just showing up at CVS and Walgreens and not even disclosing they received the Johnson & Johnson (vaccine).

Both CVS Health and Walgreens say they follow CDC guidance, but neither answered questions about whether they have any way of knowing if a person seeking a vaccine has already been vaccinated. Illinois largest health insurer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, said it isnt aware of any claims for vaccines being denied because the second dose of a vaccine came from a different manufacturer than the first.

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Doctors say there are good reasons for people to follow CDC guidance and not seek out boosters for Johnson & Johnson vaccines now.

If youre under 65, and youre otherwise healthy, in all probability youve developed protective antibodies, Taormina said.

Also, its unknown whether getting a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, on top of Johnson & Johnson, might cause problems, said Dr. Michael Angarone, an associate professor in the department of medicine and division of infectious diseases at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

We know that vaccines are not without side effects, Angarone said. He worries that for people who have autoimmune diseases, extra doses of vaccine could trigger flare-ups of those illnesses. I think when we dont know the benefit, and we know theres potential risk, in my mind, that is a risk I dont think we want to put people under.

The focus should be on inoculating people who have not yet been vaccinated at all, not giving booster shots to those whove already rolled up their sleeves, he said. The makers of all three vaccines say they offer protection against the delta variant though Pfizer has said it plans to ask the U.S. to authorize a booster.

Still, in recent weeks, several prominent health experts made headlines for publicly encouraging people who received Johnson & Johnson to get Moderna and Pfizer shots.

Dr. Vin Gupta, a faculty member at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington and an NBC News analyst, tweeted late last month that people who got Johnson & Johnson should get a Moderna or Pfizer shot as a booster. Most I know who got J&J are doing it and are telling others the same  since two seems better than 1 (regarding) delta, he tweeted.

Dr. Angela Rasmussen, a virologist at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization at the University of Saskatchewan, also tweeted last month that she got a Pfizer vaccine to top off the J&J vaccine I received in April.

I think I did the right thing to make sure I am as protected as possible from the delta variant and thus am protecting others who only have one shot, she tweeted. Sometimes public health requires making tough decisions without a complete data set to support it.

Many people have also been looking at what other countries are doing with booster shots.

Canadas National Advisory Committee on Immunization last month said that a first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine should be followed up with a dose of Pfizer or Moderna, partly to elicit a better immune response. Germany has made a similar recommendation.

Though the AstraZeneca vaccine is not the same as the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, they rely on similar technology.

And even among experts who dont recommend the general public get a booster shot, some are recommending boosters for select patients.

Taormina, with DuPage Medical Group, said in the last couple of months shes recommended Pfizer or Moderna shots to about half a dozen patients who had already gotten the Johnson & Johnson vaccine but are immunosuppressed and didnt develop antibodies after getting it.

Doctors and health experts are hopeful more data in coming months will help show who, if anyone, needs boosters.

Some people, however, dont want to wait, now that the delta variant is spreading. The delta variant now comprises more than half of new COVID-19 cases in the U.S., though Illinois had only 288 known cases due to delta as of Wednesday.

Peksoz, who is in his 40s, has already lost one close friend to COVID-19. Though Peksoz is healthy, the illnesss unpredictable nature makes him nervous. Ive seen very unhealthy friends have it and not even know it, and healthy friends who are in the hospital for 10 days, he said.

Though Peksoz wants a shot of Pfizer or Moderna, he said he wont likely get one at the moment. He doesnt want to be dishonest about the fact that he already got a Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which he would potentially have to do to get another shot.

I just dont want to lie, Peksoz said. Its a very upsetting situation where we have a surplus of vaccines, and a third of the country doesnt even want vaccinations, and people who want to have better protection cant get it.
PRAGUE (AP)  Zuzana Hejnova, a two-time world champion in the 400-meter hurdles, won't compete in the Tokyo Olympics due to an Achilles tendon injury, she said Thursday.

Hejnova's back and Achilles problems prevented her from competing this season and she wont fully recover for the Tokyo Games, which open in eight days.

The 34-year-old Czech Republic athlete said she could barely walk let alone to train properly" in recent weeks.

I feel much better now but to represent your country at the Olympics, you need to be in top form, Hejnova said.

Hejnova had planned to retire after the Tokyo Games, originally scheduled for 2020, but she still had hoped to compete despite the one-year postponement because of coronavirus pandemic.

She said Thursday she now plans to retire.

Hejnova won gold at the world championships in 2013 and 2015. She also took bronze at the 2012 London Olympics and finished fourth at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games.

___

More AP Olympics: https://apnews.com/hub/olympic-games and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
Jul. 15Former Hawaii first lady Vicky Cayetano is considering a run for governor next year to bring a "fresh perspective " to the position.

Cayetano, 65, is currently president of the Hawaii region of the laundry services company PureStar, which includes United Laundry Services, Hawaiian Linen Supply, Maui Linen Supply and Alii Linen Services. She confirmed to the Honolulu Star-Advertiser on Wednesday that she is thinking about entering the gubernatorial race in 2022 to succeed Gov. David Ige, who is term-limited and unable to run for reelection.

"I hope to bring a fresh perspective to the state government and how we look at problems and how we find solutions, " she said.

Cayetano is of Chinese ancestry but was born in Manila. She moved to the U.S. with her family when she was 3 years old and lived in Northern California before moving to Hawaii.

and served as the state's first lady until 2002 as her husband served his second term in office. Since leaving office she said she's remained "very active " in the community.

"I enjoy public service, I have to say. There's nothing more gratifying than doing something to better your community, " she said.

Cayetano is a board member for the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra, a supporter of the Hawaiian Humane Society, and said she also supports a number of health care organizations. Her laundry business notably serves Hawaii's health care and hospitality industries and has partnered with both hospitals and hotels.

She also has been recognized for her business success. The University of Hawaii at Manoa's School of Travel Industry Management gave Cayetano its Legacy in Tourism Award for "her contribution to Hawai 'i's travel and tourism industry." She also won Pacific Business News' 2018 Women Who Mean Business Career Achievement Award.

In 2020 Cayetano was co-chair for the mayoral campaign of Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi, who she said she expects to do well in office.

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She points to her time as first lady two decades ago as an inspiration for her own run for governor.

"During the time I've seen my husband in public service, he's really inspired me with his commitment to making life better for the community, " Cayetano said.

Cayetano, who would run as a Democrat, is forming a campaign team and said it's too early to discuss her political platform.

"I haven't officially declared my candidacy ... but I think through the campaign, I will definitely be rolling out my plan, " she said.

Former Gov. Cayetano served as a Democrat, while Blangiardi ran for mayor as an independent.

If Cayetano enters the race for governor next year, she could face off with former Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell and Lt. Gov. Josh Green, both of whom are possible candidates next year.

Were she to win, she would be the first former first lady and the second woman to serve as Hawaii's governor.
JAKARTA (Reuters) - Former Indonesian maritime affairs and fisheries minister Edhy Prabowo was sentenced by a court on Thursday to five years in prison for accepting bribes in a corruption scandal involving the export of lobster larvae.

Edhy, who is a politician from the Gerindra party, was arrested last November at Jakarta's airport after returning home from a trip to the United States with his wife.

As minister he had reversed a ban on the export of lobster larvae, igniting criticism over sustainability concerns.

"The defendant Edhy Prabowo was proven legitimately and convincingly to be guilty of committing acts of corruption," said head judge Albertus Usada.

The former minister was also fined 400 million rupiah ($27,624) for accepting bribes and banned from running for office for three years.

His lawyer said Edhy, who had denied the charges, would consider appealing.

"Based on the facts, the verdict is not right, there is no evidence that he received the money," said lawyer Soesilo Aribowo.

Indonesia's anti-corruption body (KPK) has prosecuted hundreds of politicians, officials and businessmen since its formation in 2002, becoming one of the countrys most respected agencies.

The latest verdict will be seen as a win for the agency, after concerns that a 2019 law governing the KPK would fatally undermine its powers and capacity to fight graft.

According to the global watchdog Transparency International (TI), worsening graft saw Indonesia drop three points on its corruption perception index last year to rank 102 out of 180 countries.

($1 = 14,480.0000 rupiah)

(Reporting by Stanley Widianto and Agustinus Beo Da Costa; Writing by Kate Lamb; Editing by Ed Davies)
French authorities have announced that a preliminary investigation is under way into doping allegations made against Bahrain Victorious after their hotel and team bus were searched at the Tour de France on Wednesday night.

The team issued a statement on Thursday morning acknowledging the search of both the hotel and the team bus, saying that the police had requested copies of training files.

The Marseille prosecutors office said the raid was part of an investigation launched on July 3 into the possible acquisition, transportation, possession and importing of a prohibited substance or method for use by an athlete without justification by members of Team Bahrain Victorious, currently in action at the 2021 Tour de France.

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A statement added: The preliminary investigation is continuing to determine the reality or not of the offenses that justified its initiation.

The existence of this investigation and the operations carried out do not in any way predict the existence of criminal offenses. Anyone suspected or prosecuted is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Last month, Bahrain Victorious general manager Milan Erzen defended the team after anonymous allegations were published in French newspaper Le Parisien following successes in the Giro dItalia and the Criterium du Dauphine.

It is understood several officers took part in the search at the hotel, which continued into the early hours of Thursday morning, although no arrests were made.

In a statement, the teams technical director Vladimir Miholjevic said: Following stage 17, we were greeted by several French police officers. We were not given a warrant to read through, but the team complied with all the officers requests.

Bahrain-Victorious riders took the start of stage 18 on Thursday (Christophe Ena/AP)

We are committed to (the) highest level of professionalism and adherence to all regulatory requirements and will always be cooperating in a professional manner. The process had impacted our riders; recovery and meal planning and as a professional team, the wellbeing of our team is a key priority.

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Bahrain Victorious, who have enjoyed a successful Tour to date despite the loss of their main general classification hope Jack Haig in a stage three crash, took the start of Thursdays stage 18 of the race.

Wout Poels leads the king of the mountains classification in the Tour (Daniel Cole/AP)

They collected back-to-back wins on stages seven and eight through Matej Mohoric and Dylan Teuns, while Wout Poels leads the king of the mountains classification and sprinter Sonny Colbrelli, twice in the top three on mountain stages, sits third in the points classification.

Pello Bilbao is the best placed of the teams riders overall, sitting 10th, almost 13 minutes off Tadej Pogacar in the yellow jersey.

Their Briton Fred Wright, 22, is the youngest rider in this years Tour.
The Wrap

Michael Wolff, the author best known for the tell-all Fire & Fury: Inside The Trump White House, appeared on Reliable Sources this weekend to promote his newest book  but also took the opportunity to air some of his grievances with host Brian Stelter. What started as a general complaint about all media and Wolff defending comments hes made in the past quickly turned into the veteran writer tearing into Stelter directly. I think you yourself, you know, while youre a nice guy, youre full
WASHINGTON  Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger on Thursday called for the firing of two county-level election officials, citing "continued failures" in handling and administering elections in Fulton County.

"Fulton Countys continued failures have gone on long enough with no accountability. Rick Barron and Ralph Jones, Fultons registration chief, must be fired and removed from Fultons elections leadership immediately. Fultons voters and the people of Georgia deserve better," Raffensperger tweeted.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported earlier this week that 200 absentee ballots in Fulton County had been scanned twice before the recount.

Ga. Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger on Nov. 11, 2020.

Three separate audits of Georgia's 2020 election results found no evidence of widespread voter fraud.

Fact check: No evidence of fraud in Georgia election

Local county officials have been at war over whether or not to fire Barron, the county's election's director. Democratic members of the Fulton County Commission want to keep him, while Republican members want to fire him, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

In a statement Thursday responding to Raffensperger, Fulton County Commission Chairman Robb Pitts, a Democrat, defended Barron and accused the secretary of state of trying to appease primary election supporters who soured on him after he rejected allegations of widespread fraud in the last election.

Raffensperger, a Republican, faces primary challenger U.S. Rep Jody Hice for another term. Hice has been endorsed by former President Donald Trump, who repeatedly attacked Raffensperger after Biden won the state in 2020. Trump also on Wednesday said he would not support Sen. Butch Miller, running for lieutenant governor in the state. Though Miller backs Trump, he has not repeated Trump's false claim that he was cheated out of 16 electoral votes.

Democratic and Republican representatives review absentee ballots at the Fulton County Election Preparation Center Nov. 4 in Atlanta.

Contributing: Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Georgia's Raffensperger calls for firing of Fulton election officials
BERLIN (Reuters) - German Health Minister Jens Spahn called on China to make it possible for investigations into the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic to continue, saying more information was needed.

Speaking during a visit to the World Health Organization headquarters in Geneva on Thursday, Spahn also announced a 260 million euro ($307 million) donation to WHO's ACT-Accelerator programme, which aims to ensure the entire world, including poorer countries, receive coronavirus vaccines and tests.

"I call on China to make it possible for the investigations into the origins of COVID to be continued," he said.

($1 = 0.8465 euros)

(Reporting by Thomas Escritt, editing by Kirsti Knolle)
Jul. 15In the wake of two separate videos shared across social media that show two visitors touching endangered Hawaiian monk seals, Gov. David Ige warned tourists that anyone who touches or disturbs the seals "will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."

"I want to be clear that this behavior is absolutely unacceptable. Visitors to our islandsyou're asked to respect our people, culture, and laws protecting endangered species that are found nowhere else in the world. For those who don't, make no mistake, you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, " Ige said in a post on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter on Wednesday.

The widely circulated videos of the two visitors touching monk seals have angered many Hawaii residents. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is investigating the recent incidents. Dominic Andrews of NOAA's Office of Law Enforcement declined to comment because the investigation in ongoing.

One of the videos recently posted on TikTok show a Louisiana woman touching a resting seal at a beach on Kauai while she was on her honeymoon in June. The video went viral across social media with numerous comments by viewers condemning the woman's actions.

In a Monday interview with the Star-Advertiser, the woman's husband apologized and said they were unaware of the laws pertaining to the endangered species. He said authorities had contacted them to assess a fine. He described the fine as "hefty " but did not disclose the amount.

NOAA's Office of Law Enforcement is expected to release details on the case once it completes its investigation in the coming weeks.

Kauai Prosecutor Justin Kollar said, "We want visitors to understand the reason these social media videos are met with such outrage here is that people who live here feel very strongly that we live in a very special place, that our natural resources are essential to what makes this a special place. And we place a high emphasis on protecting those resources, " Kollar said.

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"When people feel like Hawaii is being disrespected by visitors who are looking for social media clout, the response is going to always be outrage, " he added.

Another video shared by @hhhviral on Hungry Hungry Hawaiian Viral's Instagram page shows a visitor named Alex Magala touching a resting seal on a rocky shoreline. It's not immediately known when the encounter took place. However, his Instagram account reveals he visited Oahu in mid-May.

"I never touched a seal in my life, " Magala says in the video before he slowly approaches the resting mammal and touches it. The seal snaps its tail up and pops its head up, causing Magala to step back. Soon after, the visitor again approaches the seal and appeared interested in feeding it as he asks the person taking the video whether they have any food.

The seal barked at Magala before it entered the water and swam away.

In an Instagram post Tuesday, Magala apologized for his actions. "I just found out that I did a wrong thing." He said he thought the seal, which appeared to be covered in green algae, was dead because it wasn't moving. Once it started to move, "I was trying to calm it down and was not interfering, " he said in the post.

Magala could not be reached for comment Wednesday.

The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and NOAA said they plan to hold a joint news conference Friday to address the recent incidents.

Hawaiian monk seals are one of the most endangered species in the world, according to NOAA. Protected by federal and state laws, the population is estimated at 1, 400approximately 1, 100 seals in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and 300 seals in the main Hawaiian islands.

NOAA says the public must maintain a distance of 50 feet to view monk seals and 150 feet for a pup with its mother.

It is considered a class C felony to touch, harass, capture, injure or kill monk seals. Violators face penalties of imprisonment or fines.

In 2018, NOAA fined an Alabama man $1, 500 after he posted an Instagram video of himself touching a Hawaiian monk seal and harassing a sea turtle while vacationing on Kauai.

Hawaii residents say something needs to be done to deter people from disturbing monk seals.

Joyce Hseih of Waikiki recommended stiffer penalties for first-time violators. "The punishment should be more severe than just a $500 or $1, 000 fine." When she encounters an individual at a beach attempting to disturb a resting seal, Hseih said she asks that person how they would they feel if a stranger approaches your sleeping child and touches the child.

Kalani Kaanaana, cultural director of the Hawaii Tourism Authority, said, "We share in the frustration of the community who are just appalled by the behavior of these visitors who are breaking federal law and showing total disrespect to Hawaii and our home and our natural resources."

The agency has an ongoing partnership with DLNR and NOAA to educate visitors via public service announcements on how to respectfully view marine wildlife. The organization also posts messages on its website and social media pages. Kaanaana said they have asked airlines, hotels and tour companies to also educate visitors.

The agency won't be able to control "bad apples, " Kaanaana said, but will continue to send messages in every platform it has to ensure visitors know the law.

For those who think they are entitled to approach the seals because they spent a lot of money to vacation in Hawaii, "I'm sorry but you're mistaken, " he added.

"My direct request to visitors who are thinking of coming to Hawaii or who are already here is to please respect our laws. Please respect our natural resources and communities. Be a mindful traveler and be cautious about what you do because it has far-reaching impacts, " Kaanaana said.
A grizzly bear that was shot and killed is the same one that yanked a California woman from her tent during a fatal attack  and DNA proves it, Montana wildlife officials said.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks said Wednesday that DNA testing confirmed that the bear killed by wildlife officials on Friday was the same one that fatally attacked a camper.

The DNA samples from the bear, saliva sample at the scene of the attack and samples from two chicken coops that were raided in the area all match up, Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials said in a news release.

On July 6, Leah Davis Lokan, a 65-year-old from Chico, California, was camping near Ovando, a small rural town northwest of Helena, when she was attacked by the grizzly.

A 400-pound grizzly drags camper from her tent in fatal attack, Montana officials say

She and two other campers were woken up by a bear earlier in the night. They removed food from the area, secured their tents and went back to sleep.

Hours later, the couple in the group was startled by the sounds of a grizzly attack. The 400-pound bear had yanked Lokan from her tent, wildlife officials said.

The couple sprayed the grizzly with bear spray, and he wasnt seen again before being found by wildlife officials after it entered a home, about 2 miles from the campsite. The grizzly had also raided a chicken coop.

Killed grizzly believed to be same bear that yanked camper from tent, Montana cops say

The Powell County Sheriffs Office took a report from a resident who came home and found her door ripped off and large claw marks were present, the sheriffs office said on Facebook on Friday. A short time later a male grizzly bear was killed in the area.

Officials from the sheriffs office and Fish, Wildlife and Parks said early indications were that it was likely the same bear. DNA testing confirmed it.

Bears have been increasingly wandering into new areas in Montana as the population grows, state wildlife officials said. The state is home to the largest grizzly population in the continental U.S.

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The majority of bear encounters dont involve any conflict, and bears are typically seeking a food source or protecting their young.

People recreating outdoors in bear territory should always carry bear spray and know how to use it, secure food, and keep a safe distance from any wildlife.

Watch how bear with a chicken feeder stuck on its head finally was freed in Colorado

Bear or frog? Park rangers snap photo of oddly-posed bear  and people have questions

Grizzly bear with cub charges at man running on Idaho trail, officials say
Meena's two-month-old baby was kidnapped twice

A two-day old baby born to daily wage workers in India's western state of Gujarat was kidnapped not once but twice. BBC Gujarati's Bhargava Parikh finds out why.

"I don't let my son out of my sight anymore," said Meena Wadi, a poor labourer who lives in Gandhinagar city in Gujarat.

The 25-year-old mother is still reeling from her child being taken from her twice in two months.

Meena's ordeal began the day after she returned home from the hospital with the baby - 1 April.

She said a woman, claiming to be a nurse at the hospital where she had given birth, visited her home and told her the baby needed to be vaccinated. So, Meena, along with her son, accompanied the woman to the hospital. The woman took the baby and asked Meena to wait while he was being photographed.

Hours passed, but the woman didn't return. A frantic Meena began looking for her. "Hearing my cries, the security guards asked me what had happened. When I told them, they called the police," she said.

More than 43,000 children went missing in India last year, according to the Ministry of Women and Child Development. In Gujarat, official data says about 3,500 children disappear every year.

Child rights activists say the numbers could be higher as poor parents rarely register missing reports - but Meena and her husband, Kanu registered a police case immediately.

The search

"Meena didn't know anything about the woman, not even her name. She couldn't describe her either," said police inspector HP Zala, who headed the investigation.

So Mr Zala and his team turned to CCTV footage in the area around the hospital. That's where they found the first clue - a woman walking towards the main road with a bundle hidden under her sari. Could it be the baby? It was hard to tell.

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After questioning nearly 500 rickshaw drivers, they pieced together what happened: the woman in the footage had taken a rickshaw to a neighbouring village. Eyewitnesses said she had a baby with her.

Again, police scanned the CCTV footage from the village and questioned shop owners along the highway, following a trail of clues that led them to another village, where the woman was reportedly last seen.

A search of the area took them to an abandoned farm where they found women's clothes and an Aadhaar card, a national biometric ID. Puzzled, they went to the address listed on the ID.

They found a woman with a baby, but the baby was not Meena's.

A child disappears every eight minutes in India

The woman told the police her husband had eloped with another woman, who allegedly stole her things, including the ID they had found. The baby, she added, was from her second marriage.

"We started looking for her husband and found a couple staying with a child at the address given by the first woman," Mr Zala said. A DNA test confirmed that this baby was Meena's.

The couple were arrested but have since been released on bail.

The woman allegedly admitted to kidnapping Meena's baby and trying to falsely implicate the man's first wife by dumping her clothes and ID in the farm. But the man reportedly told police he did not know any of this and assumed the baby was his.

The woman said she had delivered a stillborn baby, and was afraid that her husband would leave her if she went home without a son.

Police say her story is not uncommon.

"There is a desire among parents to have sons instead of daughters," former police officer Deepak Vyas said. "They want sons no matter what. Driven by this craze, people abduct children from poor families."

A second attempt

Meena and Kanu were elated to have their son back but their happiness was short-lived.

On 9 June, two months after he was returned to them, he went missing again.

Meena was out collecting scrap while the baby slept under a tree, she said. But when she came back, he was not in his cradle.

When she and her husband rushed to the police station, Mr Zala said he was surprised to see the couple again.

Again, surveillance footage in the area led to a suspect - a man with a child who was seen on a bike the day the baby went missing.

But when the police tracked him down, the man told them he was not the one on the bike that day - it was his friend who lived in the neighbouring state of Rajasthan.

Meena says she doesn't let her child out of her sight now

Mr Zala's team contacted police in Rajasthan and together they raided the mason's house - the baby was with him.

He and his wife, who have since been arrested, told the police they kidnapped Meena's baby because they did not have a child of their own.

"He used to work at a construction site with Meena's husband. When he found out about the baby, he hatched a plan to abduct him," Mr Zala said.

Four days later, Meena was again united with her son.

The police now visit the family regularly to check on the baby - Meena said they bring him gifts and play with him.

"The police love him more than we do," she added.

Mr Zala doesn't deny it: "We can't let the baby out of our sight."
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  Authorities in Haiti on Thursday forcefully pushed back against reports that current government officials were involved in the killing of Haitian President Jovenel Moise, calling them a lie.

Leon Charles, head of Haitis National Police, denied a report from Caracol news, a Colombian-based private TV station, that claimed interim Prime Minister Claude Joseph was the mastermind of the July 7 killing.

The police warns of all propaganda creating a diversion, he said, adding that the government has no evidence to support those claims.

Haitian authorities have otherwise not been very forthcoming with information about who might have been behind the killing, suggesting that media reports implicating current officials had struck a nerve in the government.

In Colombia, Gen. Jorge Luis Vargas, the head of that country's national police force, told reporters that he had no information suggesting Joseph had any role in the plot.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden said Thursday that he will send U.S. Marines to bolster security at its embassy in Haiti but that deploying American troops to stabilize the country is not on the agenda.

Haitis interim government last week asked the U.S. and the United Nations to deploy troops to protect key infrastructure following the assassination. Biden had signaled he was not open to the request, which comes as he is drawing down U.S. forces in Afghanistan this summer.

Mathias Pierre, Haiti's elections minister, told The Associated Press that he believes the request for U.S. troops is relevant given what he called a fragile situation and the need to create a secure environment for elections scheduled to happen in 120 days.

He also said the words not on the agenda leave the option open.

This is not a closed door. The evolution of the situation will determine the outcome, Pierre said. In the meantime, the government is doing everything we can to stabilize the country, return to a normal environment and organize elections while trying to come to a political agreement with most political parties.

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Charles, the police chief, said the head of Moises security detail, Dimitri Herard, had been removed from his post and placed in isolated detention after officials interrogated him. Police had announced his detention in recent days. Charles said authorities will meet with him a third time before deciding the next steps.

Herard has not officially been named as a suspect in the investigation, but many Haitians have questioned how attackers could have invaded the president's house and killed him with no injuries among those assigned to protect him.

The press conference was held a day after the Colombian TV station aired a report it said was based on information from FBI sources and Haitian authorities as well as telephone calls, pictures and testimony from those accused of participating in the plot.

Im issuing a formal denial to these allegations, Charles said, calling them a lie.

Joseph, the interim prime minister, was about to be replaced when the assassination occurred. Moise had named him to the post in April following the resignation of Joseph Jouthe, who held the post for just over a year.

Two days before the assassination, Moise announced that he had chosen a new prime minister, neurosurgeon Ariel Henry. But the new prime minister had not yet been sworn into office as of July 7, and Joseph has insisted he is in charge of the government, a claim that has been recognized by the U.S. and others.

Charles said police have arrested 23 people in the killing, including 18 former Colombian soldiers, three Haitians and two Haitian-Americans. Police also have issued seven arrest warrants, searched 10 buildings, conducted 27 interrogations and placed four high-ranking police officers in isolation, he said.

He added that the investigation has benefited from the help of the FBI and foreign countries that he did not name.

On Thursday, a group of FBI agents gathered at Moise's private home and met with other officials as they entered and exited the compound under the gaze of curious onlookers while Haitian police officers walked to their vehicles with bags containing unknown items.

Eight FBI agents are on the ground in Haiti helping with the probe, said to a senior Biden administration official, who agreed to give the information only if not quoted by name because he was not authorized to comment publicly. In addition, officials from the Justice Departments criminal and national security divisions, the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. attorneys office for the southern district of Florida are working with Haitian national police.

The U.S. law enforcement officials are focused on tracing the origin of weapons used in the attack, investigating any possible U.S. link to the killing and looking into potential charges that could be filed against anyone involved in the United States.

He added that a U.S. delegation that arrived in Haiti on Sunday visited the airport and seaport in Port-au-Prince and discussed additional training and equipment that could be provided to secure that critical infrastructure.

The official noted international fatigue for Haiti, adding that U.S. officials said they made clear to the competing Haitian factions that building a coalition government would go far to reenergize support in the international community.

Meanwhile, the Pentagon issued a statement saying that a small number of the Colombian suspects had received U.S. military training and education programs while serving in the Colombian military. It said it had no additional details to offer pending a review that is still in progress.

The U.S. has provided substantial support to the Colombian military over the years and has trained many of its forces.

On Thursday, Colombian President Ivan Duque told private radio station La FM that only a small group of the former Colombian soldiers linked to the killing knew it was going to be a criminal operation. He said the others were duped and thought they would be traveling for a mission to provide protection.

Once they were over there, the information they were given changed, Duque said, adding that they ended up involved in these unfortunate events.

___

Madhani reported from Chicago. Associated Press writers Astrid Suarez in Bucaramanga, Colombia; and Zeke Miller and Robert Burns in Washington contributed to this report.
In Haiti's capital, mourners laid flowers at a tribute to President Jovenel Moise on Wednesday, marking one week since his assassination.

On the same day, scattered protests broke out as fuel shortages added to concerns over insecurity.

Moise was shot dead at his home by what Haitian authorities describe as a unit of assassins, including two Haitian Americans and 26 Colombians, five of which are still on the run.

A third Haitian American, Christian Emmanuel Sanon, was arrested on Sunday by Haitian authorities. They have accused him of being a mastermind of the attack.

Another name that has come to light is World Wide Capital Lending Group who Haitian police say is responsible for fundraising the crime.

The company, which is based in Florida did not reply to a request for comment.

Police name former Haitian Senator John Joel Joseph as a key player in the plot.

He supplied weapons and planned meetings. Authorities are searching for him.

Moise's killing has plunged poverty-stricken Haiti into chaos.

The fuel shortage has paralyzed Haiti's biggest city, Port-au-Prince.

Residents blamed the fuel shortage on gangs and opportunistic black market sellers.

On Wednesday Haiti's U.N. Ambassador Antonio Rodrigue appealed for support, "These challenges include organizing an inclusive national dialogue, organizing democratic, free and transparent elections and significant support for the government's ability to meet the socio-economic needs of the population."

Washington has sent a team of experts to investigate Moise's murder, with a focus on any connection to the United States.
Live jazz is back in Bushnell Park, not just with the Greater Hartford Festival of Jazz over the weekend, but already with the grand return of the Paul Brown Monday Night Jazz series, in its 54th year.

The Paul Brown series kicked off July 12 and continues through Aug. 16. But the jazz resurgence doesnt end there: In March, the Hartford Jazz Society, which produces the popular Monday concerts, released an 11-track CD that provides an overview of the state of jazz in the Hartford area.

One of the societys board members, the dedicated local jazz fan Sherman Schlar, says it was his idea to put together a CD as a promotional item to get more members. I contacted the musicians and said, Would you be able to donate a track? We paid for the production of the CD and worked on the cover with a graphic artist, Andres Chaparro, whos a huge jazz fan. Schlar says hes not aware of any other jazz society producing their own compilation CD.

Some of the 11 numbers on Straight from the Hart Vol. 1 have been previously released, Schlar says. Others  including the first song on the album, Steve Davis distinctive take on the Beatles classic Yesterday  havent. Noah Baermans Somethin Blue (Now!) and Frank Kozyras Jerrys Groove are among the new tracks.

One contribution, pianist/composer Warren Byrds Smilin in the Dark was recorded 20 years ago. Schlar says he first heard it as part of the pre-show music piped into an auditorium before a jazz show in Middletown. It has a haunting quality to it, he says. I had to track it down.

People are already asking for Volume 2, Schlar says. For 2022, thats definitely possible.

The CD is available for sale at concerts, but is also being given to new Jazz Society members. Another membership perk is access to five exclusive playlists Schlar has compiled featuring jazz musicians from Hartford, Connecticut in general and Western Massachusetts. The playlists are sorted by themes: Jazz Masters, Young Lions, Latin All-Stars, Big Band and Beyond Category.

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Whether live or recorded, the local acts demonstrate the multigenerational legacy of jazz the Hartford Jazz Society formed 61 years ago to promote. For example, Schlar calls trombonist Steve Davis, who teaches at the Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz and will be performing at the Bushnell Park series July 26, one of the patriarchs of the Hartt scene, and notes that Dezron Douglas, who appears on the Straight from the Hart CD, studied with Davis. Sarah Hanrahan, who also studied at the Institute, contributed the final track on the CD; its called Here for Jackie.

Wesleyan University in Middletown is another school well represented on Straight from the Hart, with tracks from pianist Noah Baerman, vibraphonist Jay Hoggard and others.

The concert series is named for its founder, bassist Paul Brown, who died in 2016. The series also regularly pays homage to legendary alto saxophonist Jackie McLean, who founded Hartfords Artists Collective and after whom the Jackie McLean Institute at the University of Hartfords Hartt School is named.

Schlar says that much of the Hartford jazz scene maintains McLeans straight-ahead, hard bop influence.

The concert series is funded by local arts grants and sponsorships as well as a GoFundMe campaign the society started to make sure theyd be able to produce shows again after having to go on hiatus last year. Schlar also says that Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin has been very supportive.

The format this year is exactly the same as before, Schlar says: six free shows of two jazz acts each, a revered local act followed by a national headliner.

The opening concert of the 2021 series featured the the KingPorter Band plus the Rene McLean Band in a tribute to the 90th anniversary of the birth of Jackie McLean.

The schedule for the remaining five concerts, with opening acts at 6 p.m. and headliners at 7:30 p.m.:

July 19: The Taylor McCoy Quartet and the Camille Thurman Quartet

July 26: New England Jazz Ensemble, then Steve Davis Correlations Band featuring Nat Reeves plus special guest Abena Koomson-Davis.

Aug. 2: The Andrew Wilcox Sextet and the Warren Wolf Quartet

Aug. 9: The Mary DiPaola Quartet with Nat Reeves, then Firey String Sistas

Aug. 16: Agua Pa Chocolate and Miguel Zenon Quartet

More information on the series can be found at hartfordjazzsociety.com/ongoing-jazz-series-2/.

Christopher Arnott can be reached at carnott@courant.com.
OTTAWA (AP)  The Toronto Blue Jays' return to their home ballpark is trending in a very good direction, Canada's deputy chief public health officer said Thursday.

The Blue Jays have played their home games this year in Dunedin, Florida, and Buffalo, New York, because the U.S.-Canada border remains closed to nonessential travel. Toronto also played all its home games in Buffalo last year.

Major League Baseball needs an exemption for games to be played in Canada because not all players and team staff have been vaccinated against COVID-19.

The team has applied for an exemption, and the health official, Dr. Howard Njoo, said there has been a lot of good back-and-forth between the Blue Jays and the government over the application.

But Njoo, speaking in a virtual news conference, would not say when an announcement would be made about the Blue Jays' return to Rogers Centre.

Were looking at, I would say, last details. But at this point I would say there arent any showstoppers or anything that we really cant continue to discuss and move forward on, Njoo said.

So I cant give you a date in terms of when a possible decision would be made for the NIE or national interest exemption, but I would say that in terms of the discussions from a public health perspective, theyve been going very well.

A team spokeswoman said the club continues to work with the federal government toward a July 30 return. The Blue Jays open a three-game series against Kansas City on that date. The venue is listed as TBD on the Major League Baseball website.

If the Blue Jays are not given an exemption for the 10-game homestand July 30, the next homestand begins Aug. 20.

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More AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
Jul. 15Honolulu firefighters today rescued an injured woman after she broke her arm while hiking the popular Makapuu Lighthouse Trail.

Five units with 16 personnel responded to an 11 :42 a.m. 911 call and arrived on scene 10 minutes later. A landing zone for the Honolulu Fire Department's Air1 helicopter was designated at Sea Life Park's parking lot.

According to HFD, the 35-year-old Oahu resident was hiking with her baby, husband and other family members when she fell and fractured her right arm near the trail's summit.

Four firefighters drove a Rapid Response Vehicle up the paved trail met the woman and her family near the summit at about noon. HFD determined that it be faster for the patient to be transported via the RRV than by helicopter.

Once HFD finished transporting the woman, care was transferred to Honolulu Emergency Medical Services at 12 :20 p.m.

The rest of the woman's family exited the trail unassisted. No other injuries were reported.
By Anna Mehler Paperny

TORONTO (Reuters) - A juvenile rib, a tooth and survivors' testimony that children were dragged from their beds in the middle of the night to dig graves in an apple orchard gave clues on where to conduct the radar search that found unmarked graves of children at a former Canadian residential school, researchers said on Thursday.

Sarah Beaulieu, a specialist in ground-penetrating radar from the University of the Fraser Valley, conducted searches in May on the site of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School in British Columbia. They led to the discovery of about 200 suspected unmarked graves of children, some believed to be as young as 3, sparking a public uproar.

Beaulieu said her search covered barely 2 acres (nearly a hectare)of a 160-acre (65-hectare) site.

"This investigation has barely scratched the surface," she told reporters in the first in-depth technical briefing on the discovery.

The suspected graves are relatively shallow - between 0.7 and 0.8 meter (2.3 and 2.6 feet) below the surface - in line with reports that children were forced to dig them, Beaulieu said.

Starting in 1831 and as recently as 1996, Canada's residential school system forcibly separated indigenous children from their families, subjecting them to malnourishment and physical and sexual abuse in what the country's Truth and Reconciliation Commission in 2015 called "cultural genocide."

Survivors who spoke with Reuters recalled perpetual hunger and haunting loneliness, with schools run under the threat and frequent use of force.

Tkemlups te Secwepemc Chief Rosanne Casimir, who revealed the discovery in May, on Thursday reiterated a call for the Canadian government and the Roman Catholic Oblates of Mary Immaculate, which ran the school, to release records that will enable the First Nation to identify the remains.

The Oblates of Mary Immaculate has told Reuters it provided all records except its Codex Historicus, or daily record, which it is digitizing, and personnel records, on which it is seeking legal guidance.

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Beaulieu said the news of children who died at abusive, assimilationist institutions run by churches on the Canadian government's behalf was not new and was known for generations.

Once Canada's largest residential school, the Kamloops school operated from 1890 to 1978 and at one time had as many as 500 students.

The discovery of the graves rocked Canada, prompting searches elsewhere and forcing Canadians to confront their country's genocidal treatment of indigenous peoples.

Since then, similar discoveries have been announced at Cowessess First Nation in Saskatchewan and near Cranbrook, British Columbia, among other locations.

While the Canadian government and some Canadian bishops have apologized, no pope has, despite the significant role the Catholic Church played in the largely church-run schools.

(Reporting by Anna Mehler Paperny; Editing by Jonathan Oatis and Dan Grebler)
CHICAGO  Police will be forbidden from using deceptive tactics while interrogating minors under a measure Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed into law Thursday, making Illinois the first state in the nation to ban the practice.

Advocates of the new law say lying or using other means of deception while questioning a young person in police custody can lead to false confessions and ultimately wrongful convictions. Thats what Terrill Swift, who spent nearly 15 years in prison after falsely confessing to a 1994 rape and murder, says happened to him. DNA evidence later tied the crime to a previously convicted murderer and sex offender.

We can all agree that one day in prison wrongfully is too long, Swift, one of the Englewood Four teens who were wrongly convicted of the crime, said during a bill signing at Northwestern Universitys Pritzker School of Law.

The law, which takes effect Jan. 1, bars police from knowingly providing false information about evidence or making unauthorized statements about leniency while questioning those 17 and younger. Any confession made under those circumstances will be inadmissible in court unless prosecutors can prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the confession was voluntarily given.

My deep hope is that Illinois is setting an example for the entire nation to pass this law in all 50 states, Pritzker said.

The governor also signed measures that prevent statements made during restorative justice practices from being used in court; allow state prosecutors to petition courts for lighter sentences for people previously convicted in their counties; and create a task force to study ways to reduce the states prison population through resentencing.

These are the latest changes to the criminal justice system signed into law by Pritzker, who earlier this year signed a sweeping proposal from the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus that will abolish cash bail beginning in 2023 and require universal police body cameras by 2025, among other changes.

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CHICAGO  Terrill Swift was 17 years old when Chicago police officers asked him to come down to the station and lied to him during an interrogation, accusing him of raping and murdering a woman with three other teens he didn't know.

Swift, a member of the so-called "Englewood Four," spent more than a decade in prison for a crime he did not commit. He was exonerated in 2012 based on DNA evidence.

"This happens so much, and it's something that needs to change," Swift said Thursday, visibly emotional as he spoke to a room full of exonerated people gathered at the Northwestern Pritzker School of Law.

Gov. J.B. Pritkzer signed a bill Thursday making Illinois the first state to bar law enforcement officers from lying to minors during interrogations, a practice critics say increases the likelihood of a minor making a false confession.

If a law enforcement officer knowingly "deceives" a minor during an interrogation  "the knowing communication of false facts about evidence or unauthorized statements regarding leniency"  any statements from the minor would be inadmissible as evidence in court, according to the bill, which takes effect Jan. 1, 2022.

"This bill, I truly believe, could have saved my life," Swift said.

Study: Police misconduct, such as falsifying evidence, is a leading cause of wrongful convictions

'A watershed moment': Illinois becomes first state to mandate Asian American history in public schools

The bill received wide support in the Illinois General Assembly and from the states chiefs of police, the Illinois States Attorneys Association and Cook County States Attorney Kim Foxx.

"This is about public safety," Foxx said Thursday. "Trust and legitimacy in our criminal justice system is how we get people who would be reluctant to engage with us to engage  when we convict the right people."

Harold Richardson, left, Vincent Thames, second from left, Terrill Swift, and Michael Saunders, right, pose for a photo on Jan. 17, 2012, after a hearing in Chicago for the four men known as "the Englewood Four," whose 1994 rape and murder convictions were overturned in November 2011.

Illinois state Sen. Robert Peters said the signing is Chicago's first step in the "long journey to end the infamy of the false confession capital of the world."

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It was previously legal for police in all 50 states to lie during interrogations. False confessions have played a role in about 30% of all wrongful convictions overturned with DNA evidence, according to the Innocence Project, a nonprofit working to exonerate wrongly convicted people. People under 18 are two to three times more likely to falsely confess than adults, according to a 2017 article in the New York University Law Review.

"Most people dont realize that this is legal in the first place, which is part of the problem," said David Thompson, president of Wicklander-Zulawski & Associates, Inc., a consulting and law enforcement training firm that supported the bill. "A lot of juveniles are unaware that this tactic is permissible, which puts them in a vulnerable position."

Police don't all act 'the same way': White officers use force more often, Chicago police study finds

'I want justice to be served': Man claims Chicago cop framed him for murder at 15. Lawyers say they can prove it

Illinois is the first state to pass such a bill, but similar legislation is pending in New York and Oregon, according to the Innocence Project. In Illinois, there have been 100 wrongful convictions predicated on false confessions, 31 of which involved minors in recent years, according to the state's chapter of the national nonprofit.

"This moment is about repairing the harm that has been done by this system, especially to those from Black, brown and Indigenous communities," Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton said Thursday.

The Innocence Project highlighted a series of group exonerations of young people in Illinois and several high-profile cases outside the state, including the Central Park Five. In New York, five Black and Latino teens, now also known as the Exonerated Five, were coerced into confessing to a rape they didnt commit in 1989 and served prison time before being exonerated in 2002.

Rebecca Brown, director of policy at the Innocence Project who was involved in the Illinois bill, said enforcement of the new law is predicated on a previous statute that mandates the recording of interrogations. Former President Barack Obama, then a state senator, introduced that legislation in 2003.

"The presence of a video tape will have a chilling effect on the use of deception now that is it also law," Brown said.

Twenty-seven states mandate the recording of interrogations in criminal investigations, Brown said.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Illinois bans law enforcement from lying to minors in interrogations
DES MOINES, Iowa  The judge overseeing the case of Cristhian Bahena Rivera, convicted in May of murdering University of Iowa student Mollie Tibbetts, has delayed his sentencing after defense lawyers filed new motions claiming the state withheld relevant information about the case.

On July 8, Bahena Rivera's attorneys filed a motion seeking a new trial, saying that two new witnesses had approached police during their client's trial with statements that could corroborate Bahena Rivera's version of Tibbetts' death. Bahena Rivera testified during the trial that he was abducted by two masked men who forced him to assist them in the murder and left him with Tibbetts' body.

On Tuesday, his attorneys filed another motion alleging that prosecutors had failed to disclose another investigation in the summer of 2018, when Tibbetts disappeared, into a man living less than 30 miles from Tibbetts' hometown of Brooklyn who was allegedly operating a sex-trafficking ring. Defense attorneys also wrote that at least 10 children have gone missing in and around Poweshiek County in recent years.

Bahena Rivera's attorneys asked the judge to push their client's sentencing to a later date, saying additional time is needed to prepare for a new trial hearing. Wednesday, Judge Joel Yates granted that motion.

Cristhian Bahena Rivera testifies from the witness stand on Wednesday, May 26, 2021, at the Scott County Courthouse in Davenport, Iowa. Bahena Rivera is on trial after being charged with first-degree murder in the death of Mollie Tibbetts in July 2018.

A Thursday hearing will now consider a motion from the defense to compel prosecutors to hand over evidence. Hearings on the motion for a new trial and on Bahena Rivera's sentencing will be set at a later date.

Tibbetts' parents, who would have had the opportunity to speak at Thursday's sentencing hearing, did not immediately return messages seeking comment.

More: The untold story of Mollie Tibbetts final moments  and her familys 3-year struggle to reclaim her memory

Tibbetts, a 20-year-old studying psychology at the University of Iowa, disappeared while jogging near her hometown of Brooklyn, Iowa, in July 2018. Bahena Rivera was convicted on May 28 of first-degree murder after jurors heard evidence that Tibbetts' blood was found in the trunk of his car and that, after a lengthy interrogation, he had led investigators to where her body had been hidden in a cornfield.

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The mandatory penalty for first-degree murder in Iowa is life in prison without the chance of parole.

Tuesday's filing by the defense team raises the possibility of a new suspect, not just in Tibbetts' case, but in other disappearances in and around Poweshiek County  including that of 11-year-old Xavior Harrelson, last seen May 27.

According to the new motion, defense attorneys learned Tuesday of a 2019 search warrant seeking access to a New Sharon home where a 50-year-old man was believed to be staying. In that warrant, investigators described interviewing a woman who alleged she had met the man in Brooklyn and been invited to his home, where she was then held against her will and sexually abused for more than four months before escaping.

No criminal charges have been filed against the man in that investigation, and the Mahaska County Sheriff's Office said Wednesday the allegations were never substantiated.

In the state's response to the defense's motions, filed Wednesday afternoon, prosecutors say the new reports contradict Bahena Rivera in several respects.

"The information is wholly different than the testimony of the defendant and would have most certainly caused his testimony to be further questioned," prosecutors write, adding the new evidence would not have made a difference if presented at trial. "It would make no sense for the defense to offer the testimony of the defendant and then offer a different version of events that contradicts his testimony."

Expert: New filings present procedural tangle for Judge Joel Yates

Once defense attorneys file a motion for a new trial, a case cannot proceed to sentencing until the judge resolves it one way or another, said Bob Rigg, professor and head of the Criminal Defense Clinic at the Drake University School of Law.

"The court is probably going to take all these matters under advisement  Im sure the court is getting an earful today by both sides, and probably well have a pre-motion hearing tomorrow on the issues of, what are the parameters of how we proceed at this point?" Rigg said.

While motions for new trials are common in cases, to have such dramatic new claims emerge at such a late date is less so, Rigg said.

"Youre making an allegation that other individuals actually committed the homicide, theres an admission by someone on that basis, and theres some corroborating evidence for verification of that," he said. "I would say thats rare."

And while prosecutors argue the defense should have paused the trial to investigate if they thought the new evidence might be significant, Rigg says that's not as simple as it might sound.

"Youre putting a judge in a hell of a bad situation, basically asking the jury to stop deliberating, if final arguments have been made and youve given final instructions," he said.

Still, although the last-minute delay will likely be frustrating to many, Rigg said it's important that the court system take the time it needs to ensure a just result.

"I think everyone should keep in mind to calm down and let the judge work through this case  hes got a lot thrown at him quickly, as far as I can tell, and hell figure it out," Rigg said. "The system is not set up for immediate gratification; its set up to try to get things right."

Contributing: Andrea Sahouri, Des Moines Register.

William Morris covers courts for the Des Moines Register. He can be contacted at wrmorris2@registermedia.com, 715-573-8166 or on Twitter at @DMRMorris.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Mollie Tibbetts murder: Cristhian Bahena Rivera sentencing delayed
Associated Press

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris on Saturday both marked the one-year anniversary of U.S. Rep. John Lewis' death by urging Congress to honor the legacy of the civil rights icon by enacting laws to protect voting rights. Biden said he often reflects on the last conversation he and his wife, Jill, had with Lewis, days before the Georgia congressman died. Instead of answering our concerns for him, he asked us to remain focused on the unfinished work  his lifes work  of healing and uniting this nation, Biden said in a statement.
Horse trainer Bob Baffert leaves federal court on Monday in the Brooklyn borough of New York. (John Minchillo / Associated Press)

Trainer Bob Baffert scored his first legal victory in the wake of the positive medication test of Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit on Wednesday when a New York federal judge said it was unconstitutional for the New York Racing Assn. to ban him from running horses in that state.

Brooklyn Judge Carol Bagley Amon said that NYRA acted improperly by suspending Baffert without holding a hearing let alone a prompt one.

Medina Spirits positive test for betamethasone, a legal anti-inflammatory except on race day, prompted Churchill Downs to ban the seven-time Kentucky Derby winner from running at its track for two years. After Medina Spirit finished third in the Preakness Stakes and was not expected to run in the Belmont Stakes, NYRA announced the temporary ban with no time frame associated with it.

New Yorks prestigious meet at Saratoga starts Thursday and Baffert has had at least one owner move their horse from his barn because he could not race at that track.

Bafferts ban from Churchill Downs has not yet been challenged. The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission has not announced the positive or given Baffert a hearing over the Medina Spirit drug positive, which could lead to the horses disqualification. The samples are undergoing further testing.

It is Bafferts contention that Medina Spirit was administered the drug in an ointment to treat a skin rash on the horses hind quarter. When the case is filed and heard in Kentucky, it will likely be argued that the rule that prohibits betamethasone on race day is only applicable when administered in an inter-articular manner.

I have said from the beginning that, following the Kentucky Derby, there was an improper rush to judgment and Mr. Baffert has been treated unfairly, said Craig Robertson, Bafferts attorney. This is one step, in one venue, toward righting those wrongs. I am grateful for a court system that protects an individual when his Constitutional rights have been trampled on by an entity like NYRA.

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David ORourke, NYRAs president, said his organization is reviewing the decision to determine legal options and next steps."

What is clear, however, is that Mr. Bafferts actions and behavior can either elevate or damage the sport," O'Rourke said. "We expect Mr. Baffert to exert appropriate controls over his operation.

Baffert has not publicly commented on his situation since days after he disclosed the presence of the positive test in early May.

My hope is that this ruling will lead toward cooperation between the parties and not further division, Robertson said. Bob Baffert and NYRA have had a good relationship in the past. My hope is that they can get to that point again for the overall good of horse racing.

Baffert has not been sanctioned in California, where both Santa Anita and Del Mar have indicated that they would wait until more is known and the process plays out. If Baffert is sanctioned in Kentucky, California would honor the ruling, which by statute would not be for more than 30 days. Churchill Downs ban is by a private entity, not a state regulatory body.

Del Mar opens its summer meeting on Friday. Baffert has three horses entered for opening day.





This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A judge rejected the Arizona Senate's motion to dismiss a lawsuit seeking the disclosure of records related to its 2020 election audit in Maricopa County.

American Oversight, a left-leaning watchdog group, filed the lawsuit seeking to force compliance with Arizona's Public Records Law. But attorneys for the GOP-led Arizona Senate argued that the various documents and donor information sought in the case are not subject to public disclosure rules because they are held by Cyber Ninjas, a private firm based in Florida, and its subcontractors.

Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Michael Kemp said in his ruling on Thursday, which preceded an Arizona Senate hearing on the audit's progress, that he "completely rejects" the arguments presented by the defendants' attorneys.

"Nothing in the statute absolves Senate defendants' responsibilities to keep and maintain records for authorities supported by public monies by merely retaining a third-party contractor who in turns hires subvendors," Kemp wrote.

ARIZONA JUDGE PRESSES FOR DISCLOSURE OF DONORS FUNDING MARICOPA ELECTION AUDIT

The judge said that allowing documents related to the audit to remain undisclosed "would be an absurd result and undermine Arizona's strong public policy in favor of permitting access to records reflecting governmental activity."

So far, the Arizona Senate has disclosed that it agreed to pay Cyber Ninjas $150,000 for a portion of the audit's cost. The rest has been raised by donors. OANN anchor Christina Bobb is helping to raise funds through a nonprofit group, Voices and Votes, while covering the review as a reporter.

Kemp argued it is irrelevant if the Arizona Senate does not have audit information that is in the hands of Cyber Ninjas, saying they must demand those records from the private firm he said is "contractually obligated ... to fully cooperate with the Senate by providing the information or documents."

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The judge said the audit information is covered under Arizona's public records law because Arizona Senate President Karen Fann has stated that the audit is a public function.

Kemp also rejected the Arizona Senates motion to consolidate American Oversights lawsuit with another public records lawsuit brought by the Arizona Republic.

"Starting now, the Arizona Senate is going to have to face real, public accountability," said Austin Evers, American Oversights executive director. "For months, the public has been asked to trust the word of senators about the sham audit of the 2020 election. Arizona law does not allow the Senate to outsource democracy and shroud it in secrecy. This ruling makes clear that the Senate must immediately begin releasing records to the public."

The Arizona Senate's defense team is "considering appellate options, but no determinations have been made yet," attorney Kory Langhofer told the Washington Examiner.

Critics of the audit say that the results from two previous election machine audits conducted for the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors showed no irregularities in the county's 2020 election. The mostly Republican Maricopa County Board of Supervisors and Democratic Secretary of State Katie Hobbs have raised repeated concerns about the audit.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

President Joe Biden won Arizona by more than 10,000 votes out of more than 3.3 million that were cast across the state. His lead of roughly 2 percentage points was due partly to his advantage in Maricopa County, where the Democrat scored nearly 45,000 more votes than former President Donald Trump.

Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: News, Arizona, Arizona Senate, Law, Campaigns, 2020 Elections

Original Author: Kaelan Deese

Original Location: Judge rejects Arizona Senate's bid to dismiss lawsuit seeking Maricopa audit records
Steve Schuh, county executive of Anne Arundel County, holds a copy of The Capital Gazette near the scene of a shooting at the newspaper's office, Friday, June 29, 2018, in Annapolis, Md. Associated Press/Patrick Semansky

Jarrod Ramos was found criminally responsible for the murder of 5 at the Capitol Gazette newspaper.

A jury rejected a defense that Ramos was criminally insane at the time of the killing.

Ramos went on a 2018 rampage following a yearslong vendetta against the newspaper.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

A jury in Annapolis, Maryland, found Jarrod Ramos criminally responsible on Thursday for the murders of five people at the Capitol Gazette newspaper in 2018.

The jury rejected the mental-illness argument Jarrod Ramos's defense had put forward.

Ramos, 41, carried out a vendetta-fueled shooting spree at the newsroom, killing Gerald Fischman, Rob Hiaasen, John McNamara, Rebecca Smith and Wendi Winters.

Ramos had filed a lawsuit against the Gazette years earlier, accusing the paper of filing a defamatory article in which he reportedly harassed a woman for a year after contacting her on Facebook.

He became obsessed with the paper after that.

Ramos had pleaded guilty to 23 charges in 2019 related to the mass shooting at the newsroom, but his attorneys argued that he was insane at the time of the killings because of mental conditions and should be sentenced to a mental-health facility instead of prison, the Baltimore Sun reported.

Ramos had pleaded guilty to 23 charges in 2019 related to the mass shooting at the newsroom, but his attorneys argues he was insane at the time because of his mental conditions.

A jury rejected the argument and found him criminally responsible for the murders.

Prosecutors are seeking at least five life sentences without the possibility of parole, The Sun reported.

Read the original article on Insider
(Reuters) - Here's what you need to know about the coronavirus right now:

Melbourne joins Sydney in lockdown

The Australian state of Victoria was ordered into a five-day lockdown on Thursday following a spike in COVID-19 infections, joining Sydney as the country's two main population hubs battle an outbreak of the Delta variant.

From midnight, the state of 6.6 million people was told to stay home except for grocery shopping, essential work, exercise, healthcare and getting vaccinated. The lockdown in Australia's second-largest city of Melbourne is its fifth since the pandemic began a year and a half ago.

Indonesia grapples with 'worst-case scenario'

Indonesia is already grappling with a "worst-case scenario", a senior minister said on Thursday, adding the government was preparing for a further climb in cases.

Indonesia began its vaccine rollout in January, but only about 5.8% of its 270 million people have received both shots.

Wednesday's tally of more than 54,000 cases was the latest of many peaks in the past month, and up more than tenfold on the number of infections at the start of June.

Singapore races to find karaoke guests, hostesses

Singapore was racing on Thursday to find people linked to a growing cluster of infections that were traced to KTV lounges in a fresh outbreak that has prompted a wider crackdown on vice and nightspots breaking social distancing rules.

The city state has been largely successful in preventing the spread of virus, but the advent of the Delta variant has heightened concern.

The 56 new local cases reported on Wednesday were the highest daily tally in 10 months, and three-quarters were traced to KTV clubs.

Thailand says AstraZeneca asked to delay vaccine delivery

AstraZeneca has asked Thailand to extend the timeline for the delivery of 61 million doses of its vaccine by five months, a deputy minister said on Thursday, a move likely to further disrupt the country's sluggish vaccine rollout.

Story continues

The reported request points to a slow production ramp-up at its local manufacturing partner, which had initial production and delivery issues.

Germany's BioNTech denied it was in talks with Thailand's Thonburi Healthcare Group for a deal to import 20 million doses of the coronavirus vaccine to Thailand.

Most Britons want restrictions to remain

Two thirds of people in Britain think at least some coronavirus restrictions should stay in place after July 19 when Prime Minister Boris Johnson plans to do away with them in England, according to an opinion poll published on Thursday.

Sixty-six percent of people taking part in the poll by Kantar Public wanted some, most or all of the restrictions to remain and 60% thought everyone should continue to wear face masks in shops and on public transport.

Johnson has said people in England should use their own judgement about whether to use masks after July 19.

Thousands rally in Greek capital against vaccinations

More than 5,000 anti-vaccine protesters rallied in Athens on Wednesday to oppose Greece's coronavirus vaccinations programme.

Shouting "take your vaccines and get out of here!" and calling on Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to resign, the protesters gathered outside parliament under a heavy police presence.

Police in Paris clashed with protesters railing against President Emmanuel Macron's plan to require a COVID-19 vaccine certificate or negative PCR test to gain entry to bars, restaurants and cinemas from next month.

Risk of COVID spread from athletes is 'zero', IOC chief says

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach said on Thursday there was "zero" risk of Games participants infecting Japanese residents with COVID-19, as cases hit a six-month high in the host city.

"Risk for the other residents of Olympic village and risk for the Japanese people is zero," Bach said, adding that Olympics athletes and delegations have undergone more than 8,000 coronavirus tests, resulting in three positive cases.

(Compiled by Linda Noakes; Editing by Nick Macfie)
The Kentucky Hemp Association is asking a state judge to stop police from conducting what it says are illegal and improper raids on hemp businesses selling products containing Delta-8 THC. It is a substance touted as marijuana lite.

The group claims state police illegally raided two lawful hemp retail stores June 15 in Morehead, Since then, said Dee Dee Taylor, an association member and chief executive officer of the Hemp Wellness Center in Louisville, the Casey County sheriffs office illegally raided five stores in that county, state police raided a Hardinsburg store and a police task force raided a store in Hardin County.

We are not criminals, said Taylor. These raids are being conducted by an opinion letter from the state agriculture department.

The non-profit trade group asked a judge in Boone Circuit Court Tuesday to stop police from using an April 19 letter from the state Department of Agriculture to target hemp products containing Delta-8 THC.

The association sued Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles and State Police Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr. in their role as state officials.

The agriculture departments letter came from Joe Bilby, the departments general counsel. He told Kentucky hemp license holders that the department had received public inquiries about the legal status of products containing Delta-8 THC under federal law and state law.

I am writing this letter to advise you that Delta-8 THC is a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law and Kentucky law; that distributing products containing this substance is illegal; and distributing such products could lead to your expulsion from the hemp licensing program as well as potential exposure to criminal prosecution, said Bilby.

For that reason, you should not manufacture, market, or distribute products containing Delta-8 THC. Failure to heed this guidance could result in the revocation of your hemp license and expose you to the risks of prosecution by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.

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Sean Southard, a spokesman for the agriculture department, said Kentucky has 445 licensed hemp growers.

When hemp advocates first approached policymakers about legalizing hemp, they assured everyone that hemp was different from marijuana and that it was not an intoxicating substance, said Southard. Relying upon those assurances, the Kentucky General Assembly and the United States Congress passed laws legalizing hemp by creating a definition to separate it from psychoactive forms of cannabis that puts users in an altered state.

Now, some want to argue that lawmakers accidentally legalized an intoxicating synthetic substance called Delta-8 THC. This position is outside the mainstream, so much so that even Colorado  a state known for legalizing recreational marijuana  has banned Delta-8 THC products, Southard said.

Southard said claims that Delta-8 THC is natural are false. Delta-8 THC products do not contain compounds naturally extracted from the hemp plant, he said. They contain synthetic Delta-8 THC compounds created in a lab.

He cited news reports that found some Delta-8 THC products are being made with battery acid and pool chemicals and have made people sick. He noted that poison control centers in Virginia, Michigan, and West Virginia have issued bulletins warning about the toxicity of the products.

If legislators wanted to legalize this product, it would be simple enough for them to enact a law saying so, he said. Because they havent, we have to follow the law and educate our license holders about what is legal and what isnt.

The hemp association argues that the substance is a legal derivative of hemp under the applicable state and federal legislation that regulates hemp production.

It also says that inaction from the courts could have a potential billion-dollar impact to Kentuckys economy, hemp growers, producers, and retail store owners.

A state police spokesman said KSP does not respond to pending litigation.

Joining the hemp association in the lawsuit are Kentucky Hemp Girl, a retail store in Burlington in Boone County, and Rocky Ridge Hemp, a hemp farm in Cynthiana.

The Boone Circuit Court Clerks office said Thursday afternoon that no court hearing has been scheduled yet on the lawsuit.
Los Angeles County will again require residents to wear masks indoors regardless of vaccination statues starting this Sunday because of recent increases in new coronavirus cases and rising concerns over the Delta variant of the virus.

Why it matters: The latest order in the most populous county in the United States comes after it reported 1,537 new COVID cases, an 83% increase over the last week.

Stay on top of the latest market trends and economic insights with Axios Markets. Subscribe for free

What they're saying: Though the county will allow some exceptions to the order, the masking requirements will be similar to what they were before California officially reopened in June, Muntu Davis, the county's health officer, said Thursday, according to the Los Angeles Times.

"Were not where we need to be for the millions at risk of infection here in Los Angeles County, and waiting to do something will be too late given what were seeing now," Davis said.

Zoom out: Local health officials in Sacramento and Yolo counties also called for residents to wear masks indoors, though neither are mandatory.

What to watch: Davis expects the latest order to remain "in place until we begin to see improvements in community transmission," according to the Times.

"Anything is on the table if things continue to get worse, which is why we want to take action now," Davis added.

He said further restrictions could be implemented if conditions worsen.

Editor's note: This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.

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As a teen, Ava Devine didnt have the words to fully describe their gender, nor a peer group for guidance and reassurance.

I think that was the most isolating time for me because I didnt have that community of other people who were experiencing similar feelings as me to lean back on because I didnt know it existed, Devine said.

There are about 1.2 million nonbinary LGBTQ adults in the United States, according to a recent study by the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law. Until now, there hadnt been a comprehensive study on nonbinary people.

Devine said being nonbinary is not a linear scale that goes from male to female and that its important to acknowledge the different ways  identifying as both or neither or not associating with any gender at all  in which a persons gender might deviate from the gender binary.

Nonbinary defined: Stars like Demi Lovato, Elliot Page, Sam Smith identify as nonbinary

When I think of nonbinary, I consider it as anyone who identifies outside of the traditional assumption of male and female, Devine said.

Nonbinary is not simply a term that means "neither man nor woman," says Marquis Bey, a professor of African American Studies & English at Northwestern University.

To me, nonbinariness is the refusal and interrogation of gender itself, Bey wrote in an email to USA TODAY. It is, I think, an imaginative call to consider how to be and live and love without, and as a staunch rejection of, gender.

'By far not the only term'

Traditionally, nonbinary has been used as an umbrella term for a spectrum of identities, according to the Human Rights Campaign. But the term nonbinary is sometimes recognized only as a default alternative to man or woman, said Eden Anai Luna, a nonbinary program manager at the Los Angeles LGBT Center.

It is by far not the only term," Luna said. "And because we're still using nonbinary as a default term, we're erasing components of the culture and the community (that) in some ways have existed before the modern context with the word 'nonbinary.'"

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Cine Julien, a nonbinary student from the University of Central Florida, said that while nonbinary serves as a descriptor for gender identity, it shouldnt inhibit nonbinary people in their self-expression.

Flags promoting LGBTQ+ and transgender pride fly above the stadium as streamers are shot into the air before the game between the San Francisco Giants and the Chicago Cubs at Oracle Park.

Nonbinary is a label, but it is not a constraint on how you identify yourself, Julien said. Youre able to identify yourself as much as you want to, as freely as you want to, as masculine or feminine as you want. It is about what makes you feel like youre living your most authentic self, and thats all that matters.

The UCLA survey found that 76% of LGBTQ nonbinary adults are between 18 and 29. Most are white, live in urban areas and struggle to make ends meet, the study said.

Want more coverage? Sign up for This Is America, USA TODAY's newsletter on race and identity

But Luna added that many nonbinary people they work with who don't speak English, who speak Spanish, who were born outside the U.S., who are a bit older than the age range in the survey may have different contexts (for nonbinariness) in their respective cultures.

Further, Julien said nonbinary people of color share a feeling of alienation within the LGBTQ community.

I think its pretty alarming that we still have to fight for visibility in issues that most pertain to us, and were not able to talk about them because its always someone who is white at the forefront, Julien said.

Jules Gill-Peterson, an associate professor of English and Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies at the University of Pittsburgh, said the exclusion faced by nonbinary people of color also extends to recent media and cultural representation, which she said tends to center on white nonbinary people.

Florida middle school suspends multiple students for fight over LGBTQ Pride flag after video is shared on Twitter

And even though nonbinary and its related terms are frequently associated with youth culture because young people often serve as tastemakers in shaping the language that we use to talk about gender and sexuality, theres no historical shortage of people who expressed themselves in gender-nonconforming ways, Gill-Peterson said.

Abbie Rolf, a genderqueer mental health counselor specializing in gender-affirming therapy, said that nonbinary people are a vast array of ages, but some people dont necessarily have an immediate opportunity to explore their genders.

Just because you recognize that a thing exists, or you're recognizing discomfort, or you're recognizing euphoria, in certain circumstances doesn't necessarily mean that you have the language to identify or explore your identity, said Abbie, who prefers to use their first name.

The impact of transphobia

Nonbinary people may also be at an increased risk for mental illness and similar forms of distress. The Williams Institute found that LGBTQ nonbinary adults experience high rates of psychological distress, and nearly 94% of respondents reported considering suicide.

Gill-Peterson said mental health survey results like these reveal the effect of transphobia on nonbinary peoples lives rather than reflect a natural tendency toward mental illness.

If you have to spend your entire childhood and adolescence and maybe a lot of your adulthood figuring out how to describe yourself because no one is helping you in figuring out how to survive then, of course, youre going to experience a negative impact on your mental health, Gill-Peterson said. It would be bizarre not to.

1 in 4 LGBTQ youths identify as nonbinary:It's important to include them in the conversation, experts say

New York to offer gender-neutral 'X' designation for driver's licenses with new law

Abbie also pointed to a struggle with aesthetic expectations of gender norms in being nonbinary, mainly the expectation that all nonbinary people present as androgynous (blurring the line between masculine and feminine in their presentation).

Because the society that we live in likes to categorize and likes for people to fit in neat and tidy little boxes," they said. "With being the other may come danger and safety concerns, and oftentimes a lack of respect and not being treated with dignity."

Despite the challenges nonbinary people might face in coming to terms with their identities, Devine said, the initial fear and uncertainty fade with time.

The biggest thing is, it gets better," Devine said. "If you are able to find the resources or the community, you come to understand yourself better, and its not always as scary as it seems at first."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Nonbinary LGBTQ adults, 1.2M in US, living their 'most authentic self'
Lara Trump tells Fox News that Cubans and father-in-law deserve freedom from socialism (FoxNews)

Lara Trump has compared the massive protests in Cuba to the removal of her father-in-law, Donald Trump, from Twitter.

The wife of the former US presidents son, and a Fox News contributor, told viewers on Wednesday that Cubans deserved to be freed from socialism  and that Mr Trump also deserves to be back on Twitter.

She told Fox News colleagues that Cuban Americans in Florida had told her that what they see in America is frighteningly close to what they started to see happen, in Cuba, over 60 years ago, in an apparent reference to Mr Trumps ban from Twitter, and the island nations turn to Communism.

When you take the sitting president of the United States off of social media, it is a real slippery slope, said Ms Trump. It's very easy to see how these folks ended up in this place in Cuba. We should take it as a warning. In America, freedom isn't free. We have to fight for it.

The former president was barred from Twitter for falsely alleging that the 2020 US election was rigged against him, and for arguably inciting the deadly 6 January Capitol riot.

Cubans on Sunday took to the streets of the capital, Havana, for the largest protests in decades, amid outrage at an economic crisis that has been worsened by food and medicine shortages, the Covid outbreak, and sanctions imposed by Mr Trump on the countrys 62-year-old Communist government.

Cuban president Miguel Diaz-Canel, in a televised address on Wednesday, admitted that the countrys government had to gain experience from the disturbances and carry out a critical analysis of our problems in order to act and overcome, and avoid their repetition.

He also blamed social media and the influence of the US for the wave of protests. The White House has dismissed those accusations.

Republicans, including Florida senator Marco Rubio and governor Ron DeSantis, have in recent days called on US president Biden to retaliate, and for the international community to aid Cubans.

Story continues

Ms Trump, during her contribution on Fox News, asked of Democrats who were pushing these Socialist, Communist ideals on America, where are they?

Ms Trump immediately came in for criticism for her take on Wednesday, with a Twitter user, ralph blair, writing: Lara Trump hates the dictators in Cuba but loved the idea of Donald J Trump as America's dictator.

Additional reporting by the Associated Press.

Read More

Florida allows Cuba protesters to shut down highway despite making it felony for Black Lives Matter

Watergate reporter hits out at Trump officials for not speaking sooner about Hitlerian administration

DeSantis sells anti-Fauci t-shirts as Florida Covid death toll hits 38,000
Russian President Vladimir Putin. Getty

Leaked documents purportedly from the Kremlin claim that Putin planned to sow discord by supporting Trump.

The reported Russian plan worked remarkably well.

Sparking dissent and division is a new way to attack democracies around the world.

See more stories on Insider's business page.

Leaked documents reportedly from the Kremlin suggest that Russian President Vladimir Putin approved a concerted effort to sow chaos in the US with a plan to "facilitate" Donald Trump winning the presidency in 2016.

The plan worked.

In the biggest upset in modern political history, Trump stunned America and the world to become the 45th president of the US. And it was just as divisive as Putin reportedly desired.

The documents, which The Guardian first reported on, serve as an eye-opener as to how Putin capitalized on the divisiveness of American politics leading up to the contentious presidential election, and sowed dissent to further those divides.

According to the papers, Russian officials believed a Trump win would cause internal turmoil in the US and weaken the nation on the world stage. Putin approved a bold plan to use "all possible force" to help move Trump toward victory, the documents say.

Russia's "active measures" were a way to defeat its adversaries with "force of politics rather than the politics of force," according to Clint Watts, a fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute. Putin's victories extended beyond winning any single election, Watts writes. His greatest success was building sympathetic audiences that Russia could use to disrupt nation-states from within their borders, Watts wrote.

Russia continued its campaign in 2020, according to a March 2021 report by Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines. The report found no evidence of direct vote tampering, but assessed that Putin authorized Russian operatives to undermine confidence in the electoral process and to exacerbate "sociopolitical divisions in the US."

Story continues

Russia's disinformation campaign is now aiming at undermining confidence in COVID-19 vaccines, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal.

Putin apparently understood a harsh truth - that America's people could be used as a weapon against it.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The flooded town of Erdorf on July 15, 2021. Harald Tittel/picture alliance via Getty Images

Western Germany was hit by devastating flooding after heavy rains.

At least eight people are dead, dozens are missing, and houses have collapsed.

Police say people are trapped on roofs and more houses could cave in.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

At least eight people are dead and dozens more are missing in western Germany after devastating floods that destroyed houses and left people trapped on their roofs.

The flooding hit western Germany this week, and police said the people died in cities and towns across the region, the Associated Press reported. The floods came after days of heavy rain in the region, the AP said.

A car is seen in a flooded street following heavy rainfall in Hagen, Germany, July 14, 2021 REUTERS/Leon Kuegeler

A spokesperson for the Koblenz police said there was "an unclear number of people on roofs who need to be rescued," German newspaper Deutsche Welle reported.

Video footage shows a flooded road in the city of Hagen:

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Six houses collapsed in the Rhineland-Palatinate state, and police said that around 25 more buildings in the Schuld region could be destroyed, according to DW.

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Lebanese President Michel Aoun rejected Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri's proposal for a new government, prompting Hariri's resignation and deepening the country's political crisis.

Why it matters: Lebanon's political stalemate is contributing to the country's economic collapse, and caretaker Prime Minister Hassan Diab has been pleading for international help to avert an imminent social explosion." But key international players say they'll withhold aid without a new government and economic and political reforms.

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Driving the news: Hours before Aoun rejected Hariri's proposal, Secretary of State Tony Blinken and French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian had sent a joint message to the Lebanese president stressing the need to form a new government as soon as possible.

The message was conveyed by the U.S. and French ambassadors in Beirut on Thursday, a day after Blinken and Le Drian met in Washington and agreed to push for a new, reform-minded government in Beirut.

Blinken and Le Drian also discussed possible sanctions against Lebanese politicians involved in corruption or in preventing the formation of a government.

We will coordinate the measures of French and American pressure against those responsible for this impasse," Le Drian said.

Flashback: Diab resigned after the Beirut explosion last August but political infighting has prevented the formation of a new government.

After Aoun rejected his proposed technocratic cabinet  which came after 8 months of negotiations  Hariri said it would be "impossible" to reach a deal with the president.

"May God help Lebanon," he said.

The latest: The Lebanese pound plunged to a new low against the dollar after the news. It has lost more than 90% of its value over the past year.

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BEIRUT (AP)  Lebanons Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri stepped down Thursday over what he called key differences with the president, deepening a political crisis that has left the Lebanese without a government for nine months even as they endure an unprecedented economic meltdown.

With no clear candidate to replace Hariri, Lebanon is likely to slide deeper into chaos and uncertainty. Prospects for forming a government to undertake desperately needed reforms and talks for a recovery package with the International Monetary Fund are now even more remote.

Poverty has soared in the past several months and dire shortages of medicines, fuel and electricity have marked what the World Bank describes as one of the worlds worst economic crisis of the past 150 years.

I have excused myself from forming the government, Hariri said after a 20-minute meeting with President Michel Aoun. May God help the country."

Later, Hariri  one of Lebanons most prominent Sunni Muslim leaders  told Al-Jadeed TV that he has no intention of endorsing a replacement. According to Lebanons sectarian-based political system, the prime minister is picked from the ranks of Sunnis.

Without Hariri's backing, prospects of forming a government would become even more remote. Aoun said he would soon set a date for consultations with parliamentary blocs on naming a new prime minister-designate.

Hariri told the TV that when this happens, his bloc would consult with our friends and allies and see what to do."

After news broke of Hariri stepping down, protesters  mostly his supporters  blocked roads and set fire to tires in several parts of Beirut, decrying the deepening crisis. Troops deployed to break up a protest at the edge of Beirut, firing in the air and using armored vehicles to open roads. Protesters pelted the soldiers with stones.

The national currency, in free fall since the crisis erupted in late 2019, plunged to a new low, selling for more than 20,000 to the dollar on the black market. The Lebanese pound, pegged to the dollar for 30 years, has lost more than 90% of its value.

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Frances Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, whose country ruled Lebanon for about 25 years until its independence after World War II, called the failure to form a new government yet another terrible incident demonstrating the inability of the Lebanese leaders to find a solution to the crisis that they have generated.

They totally failed to acknowledge the political and economic situation of their country, he told reporters at U.N. headquarters in New York after chairing a Security Council meeting on Libya.

We are a few days from the first anniversary of the blast in Beirut at the port that killed and wounded thousands, Le Drian said. It is somehow cynical destruction of the country that is ongoing, and this is just yet another step."

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called Hariri's resignation yet another disappointing development for the Lebanese people.

It is critical that a government committed and able to implement priority reforms be formed now, Blinken said in a statement.

In a last-ditch effort to end the deadlock, Hariri had proposed a 24-member Cabinet to Aoun on Wednesday, and said he expected a response from the president by Thursday.

Aoun, who has blamed Hariri for the deadlock, said the premier-designate had rejected the idea of changing any names on the proposed list, indicating he already planned to step down and was finding a pretext to justify his decision.

International calls have mounted for Lebanese leaders to form a new government. In an unusual move, the French and U.S. ambassadors to Beirut recently traveled to Saudi Arabia to discuss Lebanon with Saudi officials. The two said Lebanon is in desperate need of a new, pro-reform government to lead it out of its economic and financial crisis.

But for months, the effort has been blocked by a power struggle between Hariri on one side and Aoun and his son-in-law, Gebran Bassil, who heads the largest bloc in parliament, on the other.

They locked horns over the shape of the Cabinet that will oversee critical reforms and elections scheduled for next year. Each side blamed the other for the deadlock, which has paralyzed Lebanon even as the meltdown accelerated and inflation soared.

Nabil Bou Monsef, a political commentator in An-Nahar newspaper, said that naming a new prime minister would now be even more difficult.

We may not be able to form a government or find an alternative to Saad Hariri, he said. President Michel Aoun will now consider himself victorious in getting rid of Saad Hariri. But in reality, (Aoun) has opened the gates of hell for the whole country and his rule.

Regional and international mediation has failed to bridge the differences between the Lebanese leaders. European Union Foreign policy Chief, Josep Borrell, said during a visit to Lebanon last month that a power struggle and a case of strong mistrust is at the heart of the political crisis.

The 51-year-old Hariri has served as prime minister twice, the first time from 2009-2011. His second time came in 2016, in an uneasy partnership with Aoun, an ally of the Shiite militant Hezbollah group, which is backed by Iran. At the time, Hariri had backed Aoun for president, ending nearly two years for Lebanon without a head of state, while he stepped in as premier.

In 2017, in a reflection of a feud between Saudi Arabia and its regional rival Iran, Hariri suddenly resigned in a televised address from Riyadh and accused Hezbollah of taking Lebanon hostage. The move was seen as forced on Hariri by the Saudis, and he was quickly restored to power, but it signaled the end of his traditional alliance with the Sunni regional powerhouse.

Then, in October 2019, Hariri resigned, bowing to nationwide protests demanding major reforms. A year later, parliament named him once again to the post, months after the government of Hassan Diab resigned in the wake of the massive Aug. 4 explosion in Beiruts port. More than 200 people died in the blast that defaced the city and injured thousands, compounding Lebanons woes. An investigation continues into what caused it.

Talks with the IMF also came to a halt after Diabs resignation. The deadlock left no one to address the spiraling crisis, rooted in years of mismanagement and corruption.

Lebanons economy contracted by over 20% in 2020 and poverty deepened, with more than 55% of the population living below the poverty line.

___

Associated Press writer Bassem Mroue in Beirut contributed to this report.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker has approved new legislation that will provide Illinois schools with expanded dental services.

The new law will provide dental services for students during the school day including teeth cleaning, cavity fillings, and other dental needs at no extra cost to taxpayers. The dental services will be provided at the school by local dental professionals.

Dave Marsh, who is director of governmental relations for the Illinois Dental Society, says that this new legislation will be completely covered by Medicaid and Illinoisans who use this program will not have to pay anything out of pocket.

It is all covered by the Medicaid program, so the appropriation for the Medicaid is what pays for this program completely, Marsh said.

The dental program has already been available in some school districts across the state, Dave Marsh said this new legislation will help fix the issues that this program has previously faced.

It is an existing program just without any regulatory or statutory authority, Marsh said. So we fixed those problems by putting this legislation out there.

The Chicago public school system has been using the dental program for the past couple of years and has been having great success using the program.

Aixa Arredondo, the pre-K lead ambassador for the Stagg School of Excellence said that this new legislation is extremely helpful to citizens in low-income areas.

I work in a very low-income area so a lot of the residents do not have dental insurance, Arredondo said. These parents are not able to afford the dental care that their children need, this legislation helps fixes that problem.

The dental program is not a mandate and students need to have a parent's signature to be involved in the program. This gives parents the ability to seek dental care somewhere else if they can do so.

According to the Center for Disease Control website, 34% of children from deprived areas and more than two times as likely to have dental decay compared to 14 percent in less deprived areas.

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Arredondo said that this legislation will help students from these areas get the dental help they need but also instills good dental hygiene routines.

Their teeth are being cleaned and they are learning how to properly brush their teeth, Arredondo said. They are also sent home with clean toothbrushes and toothpaste and even floss.

The new law will go into effect across the state starting Jan. 1, 2022, after being approved and signed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

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Original Author: Andrew Hensel, The Center Square

Original Location: New legislation expands dental services in Illinois schools
Chinese Communist Party supporters wave flags and shout in front of police officers and protest groups at Shinjuku Central Park on July 1, 2021 in Tokyo, as China's ruling party marks its 100th anniversary. Takashi Aoyama/Getty Images

A local Chinese government committee posted a video recommending nuclear strikes in response to Japan's support of Taiwan.

The video asks Chinese viewers to combine their "old and new hatred" toward Japan.

It has received 6,673 likes so far, with up-voted comments voicing their approval.

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The official social media account of a local municipal authority in China has reposted a video that calls for nuclear strikes on Japan if Tokyo continues to support Taiwan.

"If Japan intervenes in military affairs to reunify Taiwan, I must recommend the 'exceptional theory of nuclear strikes on Japan,'" reads the title of the video, which was posted on Sunday by the municipal committee of Baoji, a major city in the province of Shaanxi.

The "exceptional theory" refers to the idea that China can make an exception for Japan in its "no first use" policy with nuclear weapons. The "no first use" policy declares that China can only use nuclear weapons in self-defense.

The video was posted to Xigua, a Chinese video platform akin to YouTube. It was originally created by "Liu Jun Tao Lue" or Six Army Strategy, a military commentary channel with over two million followers. The original channel has since taken down its posting of the video.

In the video, a narrator responds to Japanese Deputy Prime Minister Taro Aso's comment earlier this month that Japan would need to help defend Taiwan if the latter were to be invaded. Japan's annual white paper on defense also expressed concerns about Taiwan's survival, warning of a crisis if US-China relations continue to sour.

The video's narrator said Japan "has not learned its lesson from history" and advocated for "continuously using nuclear bombs until Japan announces its unconditional surrender for the second time."

The video suggested China should "combine the new and old hatred" for Japan, asking Chinese viewers to channel their disdain from Japan's World War II invasion of China with their resentment over Minister Aso's recent Taiwan statements.

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China and Japan's old history of conflicts and war crimes, such as the Nanjing Massacre, have long caused dissension between the two nations.

"Our country is undergoing major changes unlike any in the last century... In order to ensure the peaceful rise of our country, it is necessary to take measures," said the video, right before repeating its recommendation of nuclear strikes on Japan.

By Thursday, the Baoji government's posting of the video had garnered 6,673 likes and 150,000 views, and Chinese social media users appear to praise the video in the comments section.

"This video is what many people of our country think," wrote one commenter.

"Good! I fully support this! The day of revenge is coming!" said another, while one more wrote that Japan's nuclear reactors would "take care of business" if China fires missiles at them.

All three comments have accrued hundreds of likes.

The Baoji municipal government did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

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In this July 1, 2021, file photo visitors wear masks as they walk in a shopping district, in the Hollywood section of Los Angeles. AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, File

Los Angeles County will reinstate an indoor mask mandate for all beginning Saturday.

The announcement comes as the county faces a worrisome rise in recent COVID-19 cases.

A public health officer said on Thursday that he expects the order to remain in place until conditions improve.

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The nation's largest county will reinstate an indoor mask mandate regardless of vaccination status amid a troubling increase in COVID-19 cases.

Los Angeles County's public health officer Dr. Muntu Davis made the announcement at a virtual press conference on Thursday. The new order will go into effect at 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, Davis said.

"This is an all-hands-on-deck moment," he said.

While some exceptions will apply, including people being allowed to take their masks off while out to eat and drink, the measure will be a return to the county's precautions before the state officially reopened exactly one month ago.

The announcement comes as LA County faces a rapid increase in recent COVID-19 cases. In the past week, the county reported more than 1,000 new cases each day, according to The Los Angeles Times, marking a more than 250% increase from two weeks earlier.

Davis said Thursday saw 1,537 new cases, noting the county's recent numbers mark "substantial community transmission."

Officials are also concerned about the spread of the highly contagious Delta variant, which prompted public health officials to recommend the same indoor-mask guidance as a precaution two weeks ago.

Davis said he expects the new mandate will remain in place until "improvements" in community transmission start to be observed, but he warned that further measures could become necessary if cases continue to rise.

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Former member of the military who suffered a traumatic brain injury, Jansen Ng of East Gwillimbury, Ont., has charitable plans for his $65 million Lotto Max jackpot win from the July 6 draw.

The 41-year-old occasional lottery player bought a Quick Pick ticket at Marinas Express Mart on Leslie St. in Sharon, Ont., while he was playing Pokemon Go.

"I had heard on the news that the jackpot had been won in my local municipality of York Region, but it didnt really click that it could be me," Ng said.

"A few days after the draw, I went to check the ticket on a ticket checker and the message said, Please See Retailer. I thought the ticket checker was malfunctioning and decided to check the ticket at home on the OLG Lottery App."

When Ng saw the "Big Winner" message on the app he was in disbelief and kept checking it on other devices. He finally went back to the retailer with the ticket and thats when he truly got excited.

The first person Ng told about his win was his pastor.

I felt the responsibility of this win immediately. I wanted to be sure to use this money responsibly, so I felt my pastor was the best person to work that through with me.Jansen Ng, Lotto Max $65 million winner

Ng wants to continue to support charities and is exploring ways to set up not-for-profit foundations.

"I have travelled extensively over the years, saw much poverty and want to try to make the world a better place with some of this money," he said. "Lottery winnings used strategically and intentionally can impact the community far beyond just a simple donation."

$65 million Lotto Max winner Jansen Ng of East Gwillimbury with Kim Clark, OLGs Vice President of Lottery and Customer Success (OLG)

Ng also help fellow veterans and others with non-visible injuries that impact their quality of life.

"At one point, I was almost homeless because I didnt know how to deal with my injury," he shared.

"I was struggling with making decisions and some of the things I did were strange and irrational, but I kept the true cause hidden from the people around me. I hope to help some who are struggling as I did without having to face more personal hardships."

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There is one material items he plans to buy himself, a new electric car, but not much much else.

"Im still going to be the guy who donates blood every two months and cuts his own hair," Ng said. "I have been cutting my own hair for the last 10 years, not as a result of the pandemic, and think I do a pretty good job at it."
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Data: NSF Survey of Earned Doctorates, U.S. Census Bureau; Chart: Connor Rothschild/AxiosStudents from underrepresented communities are earning more Ph.D.s, yet doctoral degrees in science and engineering are still overwhelmingly conferred on white students, according to an analysis from the National Science Foundation.Get market news worthy of your time with Axios Markets. Subscribe for free.Why it matters: Today's doctoral candidates are tomorrow's teachers, mentors and researchers who can hel
Jul. 14MORGANTOWN  Tuesday, the one-year anniversary of Magistrate Ron Bane's first day on the job, he released the 2021 quarterly court carda report showing caseload and trends.

In the quarter ending June 30, Bane heard 92 felony preliminary and extradition hearings, a 31.34 % decrease from the first quarter of 2021. Bane held 274 misdemeanor hearings, a 18.21 % decrease and 122 civil, a 19.74 % decrease.

Overall, he heard 589 cases, or 16.22 % less than in the first quarter.

Bane noted that, because the county only has four magistrates, there are times spent on call or vacation which reduce the ability to hear cases.

He repeated a call for a fifth magistrate for the countya need expressed by many of Monongalia County's magistrates over several years. The state legislature is responsible for designating the authorized number of magistrates in each county.

"Should Monongalia County get a fifth magistrate judge in the future, court efficiency to schedule cases could be increased by 20 percent. Typically, magistrate court dockets can be scheduled up to eight weeks ahead of time and additional magistrates would open up docket time so scheduling could be separated in those instances where cases must be heard and adjudicated in a timely manner, " Bane said.

The information in the report only covers cases heard by Banenot by any of the county's three other magistrates.

The goal of the court card is to engage the public and build a database of the court's workload to support an increased number of magistrates for the county, Bane said when he released the first one in April.

Some changes were made to the court card with the goal of streamlining the publication.

"When discussing the initial court card format with the public, grouping items like extraditions with felonies, and domestic protective orders and protective safety orders with civil cases seemed to help make it more explainable, " Bane said.

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Bane also announced that since his last quarterly report was released in April, he has purchased a home in Westover and moved out of Morgantown.

"I'm just a little further away from the office but conveniently near the main Mountain Line bus depot. I'll always have fond memories of Morgantown, my hometown, but when opportunity knocks in life, I encourage everyone to answer the call, " he said.

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Jul. 15A Maplewood man has been charged with second-degree murder in the shooting death of a St. Paul man in what authorities believe was a drug deal gone wrong.

Brian Devon Booth, 20, is suspected of fatally shooting Kiefer M. Morgan, 30, on July 6 in Morgan's home as the two haggled over the sale of a bag of marijuana, according to the criminal complaint. Morgan's 1-year-old was in the room when he was shot and his other children, ages 3 and 4, were in another room, according to his fiancee.

Booth fled to Iowa, where he was arrested on July 8 and extradited back to Minnesota.

According to the criminal complaint, about 6:45 p.m. on July 6, police responded to a 911 call at 1140 Pacific St. in the Dayton's Bluff neighborhood on a report of a man being shot. They found Morgan dead. He had been shot five times  twice in the chest and once in the stomach, hand and arm.

Morgan's fiancee's mother, who was not named in the complaint, told police that she had just returned from the laundry mat when she saw Morgan talking to a man in the kitchen. Three men had come to the house to buy marijuana, according to the complaint, but Morgan had only let one inside.

The mother said that the man was making her very nervous and she could tell something was wrong, the complaint said. She described him as "looking uncomfortable" and being "fidgety."

As she went toward the living room, the two males outside began kicking the exterior door. She grabbed a chair and tried to block the door. She held the door "with all her might" but said the door was "coming down." She said she heard gunshots and then the door was kicked all the way open. She ran to the children and got them into the back bedroom, the complaint states.

Police were able to trace the shooting to Booth because he had prior arrests and his phone number was on file, the complaint said. The phone number matched the number of the phone of the man who allegedly shot Morgan.

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Morgan's fiancee was able to pick Booth out of a police lineup, the complaint said. Phone records also put Booth's phone at the scene of the crime.

On July 7, using a warrant, police searched Booth's house and found .40-caliber rounds of ammunition, among other items.

Booth has a theft conviction from July 16, 2000; a theft conviction for stealing a purse and car Jan. 2, 2019; pending charges for stealing a car Feb. 3, 2020; and possessing a firearm and stealing credit cards June 2.

Booth's record shows that he and several other juveniles were implicated in multiple purse snatchings in St. Paul. The group would grab a woman's purse, use the credit cards to buy electronics and sometimes return with the car keys to steal the woman's car.

His next court appearance will be held remotely July 30.
Oliver Daemen. Blue Origin

Oliver Daemen, an 18-year-old from the Netherlands, is joining Jeff Bezos' spaceflight.

Daemen is Blue Origin's first paying customer and replaces the anonymous auction winner.

Daemen has a pilots license, is fascinated by space, and will go to college for physics this fall.

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When Oliver Daemen blasts off on July 20, he'll be making history as the youngest person to travel to space.

The Dutch teen will join Amazon and Blue Origin founder Jeff Bezos, Bezos' brother Mark, and aviator Wally Funk aboard Blue Origin's New Shepard spacecraft, which will be carrying human passengers for the first time ever.

Daemen, who is currently 18, is Blue Origin's first paying customer - he bid for the seat at an auction last month, ultimately losing out to an anonymous bidder who paid $28 million for the opportunity. But Daemen is flying in that passenger's place after "scheduling conflicts" arose, Blue Origin said in a blog post on Thursday.

In a video posted to Twitter, Daemen said he's "super excited" to go into space.

"I've been dreaming about this all my life," he said. "I am super excited to experience zero-g and see the world from above."

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According to Dutch news service RTL Nieuws, Daemen has already left for Texas, where New Shepard will launch, in order to complete astronaut training ahead of liftoff on Tuesday.

So who is Oliver Daemen and how did he become a passenger on the highly anticipated spaceflight? Here's what we know so far.

Daemen is the son of Joes Daemen, the CEO of a private equity firm

Joes Daemen founded Somerset Capital Partners, a real estate private equity firm, in 2005. The firm is based in Oisterwijk, Netherlands.

According to CNBC, Daemen participated in the auction and had already secured a seat on Blue Origin's second flight, but the company "moved him up" when the auction winner deferred. Daemen's father paid for the seat, though the company hasn't disclosed how much he paid, CNBC reports.

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He'll be a college freshman in the fall

Daemen graduated high school in 2020 and took a gap year - beginning this September, he'll attend the University of Utrecht in the Netherlands where he'll study physics and innovation management, according to Blue Origin.

He's a fan of underwater adventures and water sports

If Daemen's Instagram account is any indication, he's spent much of his free time on the water. Over the years, he's posted pictures of himself snorkeling, surfing, and wakeboarding.

He's rubbed elbows with Dutch celebrities

Daemen posted a photo to his Instagram account in 2018 of him, his sister, DJ Martin Garrix, and Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen.

He's fascinated with flight and outer space

Daemen spent his gap year working on getting his pilots license, and this trip to space is the culmination of a lifelong interest, according to Blue Origin.

"Flying on New Shepard will fulfill a lifelong dream for Oliver, who has been fascinated by space, the Moon, and rockets since he was four," the company said.

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MEXICO CITY (AP)  About 44 police, detectives and members of Mexicos National Guard are apparently being held hostage by a group of farmers in a land dispute, the Interior Secretary of the southern state of Oaxaca said Thursday.

Francisco Garcia Lopez said the farmers are holding the officers until the government agrees to return farmland they say belongs to them.

The officers do not appear to have been mistreated so far, and President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said they are negotiating, but they have not been taken hostage.

Residents of the village of Santiago Textitlan seized about 24 police and 20 guard officers Tuesday. They say they were forced off the land last year by assailants who have not been identified.

Garcia Lopez said we are going to continue negotiating. There will be no use of force.

Many farms in southern Mexico are held under common title by communities, but boundary disputes are common and can last for decades.

Lopez Obrador has consistently ordered troops not to engage in confrontations, even when those involve drug traffickers and even when it means they are held against their will for brief periods. In 2019, the president ordered the release of a detained drug lord to avoid bloodshed.
The Miami man charged with murder following Monday mornings shooting at a North Miami-Dade grocery store was out on bond after being charged with attempted murder in an incident involving the same store.

Each event ended with the arrest of Amon Bush. The 35-year-old will remain in custody of Miami-Dade Corrections  not granted bond now that hes got a second-degree murder charge on top of his attempted second-degree murder charge from 2020.

Bush lives two blocks, as the crow flies, from Js Food Market, 7606 NW 17th Ave. Thats where an arrest report, in a narrative that seems as if it came from security camera footage, says Bush talked with a man, then went to the front of the store and talked with the man again before shooting him in the chest.

The still-unidentified man died at the store around 7:30 a.m. Monday. Miami-Dade police arrested Bush at his home around 11:55 p.m. that night.

Another morning at Js Food Market

A probable cause affidavit says ShotSpotter alerted Miami-Dade cops at 4:23 a.m. on the day after Christmas in 2019 to five shots fired near 7515 NW 17th Ave. Police say Izaal Simmons got hit with a triple shot of bullets on his right side  right side of his face, right shoulder, right arm.

The investigator viewing surveillance camera footage from Js Food Market says Simmons was at the front counter when Bush walked in, picked up his items and went to the front register.

You remember me? the affidavit quotes Simmons as saying to Bush. You scared to look my way because you think Im going to jump on your ass, right?

Simmons kept talking, mentioning possibly stabbing Bush. The affidavit says Bush remained silent and let Simmons talk, but could be seen holding a handgun in his right hand. After Simmons left, the affidavit says, Bush checked out and departed, items in his left, gun in his right hand.

The affidavit says the stores surveillance cameras show Bush walking south on Northwest 17th Avenue when Simmons pulls up next to him in a Chrysler 200.

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A muzzle flash can be seen in the distance, the affidavit says and Simmons Chrysler races away while Bush continues walking down the sidewalk.

Simmons said he caught Bush breaking into his car earlier in 2019 and they had a fight over it. Despite his earlier words on Dec. 26, he said he pulled up alongside Bush to squash everything when Bush shot him. He later picked Bush out of a photo lineup.

For Bushs part, he said he remembers stopping in at Js to buy a soda, but didnt remember having a problem with anyone.

Bush was arrested March 2, 2020, on a second degree attempted murder. He was released after posting $25,000 bond on March 3.

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Two people hit, one of them dead, after drive-by shooting in Florida City, police say
MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - A Honduran toddler who was found alone in southern Mexico after becoming separated from his father on their journey to the United States will be sent back to his country on Friday, according to officials involved in the case.

The boy, Wilder, gained international media attention when he was found alone on a roadside earlier late last month in Mexico's Veracruz state, half naked and crying, near a truck that carried migrants in suffocating conditions.

"The little one will arrive in San Pedro Sula on Friday morning accompanied by a Child Protection officer from Mexico," said Lutgarda Madrigal, attorney for the Protection of Girls, Boys and Adolescents in Veracruz, which was in charge of Wilder's case.

Upon arrival to Honduras, Wilder would be reunited with his mother Lorena Garcia, according to a source familiar with the matter who asked not to be named.

Garcia, who is from the rural area of Copan, Honduras, told Reuters that Wilder left with her husband Noel Ladino in a bid to migrate to the United States with a human smuggler. It was unclear why the father and son became separated before Wilder was found by Mexican security authorities.

After Mexican immigration authorities circulated photos, Garcia identified herself to Honduran officials as Wilder's mother using a document that matched the vaccine records the boy carried.

Garcia said she had spoken to her husband by phone but his whereabouts were still unknown.

(Reporting by Lizbeth Diaz, writing by Cassandra Garrison, editing by Richard Pullin)
Haitian police announced late Wednesday the arrest of two more people, one with ties to Florida and another with a drug-linked past, in a blossoming probe into the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise.

A week after Moises shocking killing, which also left his wife Martine wounded and whisked to South Florida for treatment, Haitis interim national police chief, Leon Charles, assembled journalists to update them on his investigation and renew a pledge to answer the question of who is behind the murder and who bankrolled it.

One of the new arrests was of Gilbert Dragon, a soft-spoken former rebel leader who played a key role in the bloody 2004 coup that ousted Haitian President Jean-Bertrand Aristide.

Dragon was second-in-command at the time to Guy Philippe, the coup leader who was arrested in 2014 just days before he was going to be sworn in as a senator, and flown to the United States by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration on drug charges. Philippe later pleaded guilty to money laundering.

Also among the recently arrested is Reynaldo Corvington, who had his own security company in Haiti called Corvington Courier & Security Services. Its homepage boasts Integrity-Independence-Confidence.

Public records and social media show that Corvington has family in South Florida, although his company is not registered in the Sunshine State.

In a presentation that identified the two newly arrested men, who brought to 23 the number of suspects in custody, Charles identified the Doral-based firm CTU Security and said its Venezuelan-emigre owner Antonio Intriago is now a person of interest. Intriago has disappeared, not answering his phones or knocks on his door.

Charles also named Walter Vientemilla, who heads a South Florida lender called Worldwide Capital Lending Group, as a person of interest. The Miami Herald and the McClatchy Washington Bureau tried repeatedly to reach Vientemilla, leaving messages with his employees that he did not answer. Charles alleged that a Worldwide Capital Lending meeting served as a forum to plan the assassination.

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Haitis President Jovenel Moise was assassinated in his home on July 7.

Seven arrest warrants have been issued and dozens of interrogations have taken place involving members of the presidents security team and those in custody, police said. On Wednesday, the head of the General Security Unit of the National Palace (USGPN) failed to show up in court to answer questions about the assassination from an investigative judge. In a letter to the judge, Dimitri Herard said he could not appear because he is being held in isolation by the inspector general of the police, the equivalent of internal affairs.

Haitian police said four police officials fall into this category, including Herard.

Five Haitians are now in custody along with 18 Colombian security men who were arrested in the hours after the July 7 assassination at the presidents private residence in the Pelerin 5 neighborhood of metropolitan Port-au-Prince. All of the Colombians, Charles said Wednesday, are ex-military.

We are advancing, he said about the investigation, which has now been joined by a team from the Federal Bureau of Investigation that arrived in the country. We are retracing what happened.

In Colombia, the radio station Caracol on Wednesday broadcast what it said were messages sent over Whatsapp between the Colombians who were being recruited. One man who said he helped arrange the work for them, Carlos Arturo Garcia Zamora, insisted they were duped. The men thought they were contracted to provide security, he said, sharing a Whatsapp message to all of them.

Gentlemen, the proposal is as follows: There is an American company that needs special forces personnel, commandos with experience, to realize a job in Central America. The pay is between $2,500 and $3,500 month, read the message broadcast by Caracol, which went on to say 100 men were needed initially but it could grow to 500 and could involve urban combat.

Importantly, the message said the operation would be under the protection of the American government. They are going to equip us and they are going to pay us our salaries.

When the assault began on the Haitian presidents residences, invaders shouted it was a DEA operation, something strongly denied by the DEA and other U.S. agencies.

Charles Wednesday said one of the men sought by Haitian police, Joseph Felix Badio, an ex-government functionary, is the one who fabricated the DEA logo used by the group. Also a hat emblazoned with DEA was found in the home of another Haitian American in custody, Christian Emmanuel Sanon, who has ties to South Florida going back more than 20 years.

The Miami Herald and McClatchy reached out via social media to Garcia, who hails from Tulua and said he had 21 years experience in the Colombian army. He did not respond to requests for an interview.

Charles, Haitis interim police chief, alleges that the contract soldiers entered Haiti via Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic on June 6, and that James Solages, until April a maintenance director at a Lantana senior-living center, was one of the people who led coordination efforts. Charles showed a photograph of what he said was a meeting of Worldwide Capital Lending Group, which Solages, 35, attended along with Sanon, the Haitian doctor from South Florida arrested in connection with the assassination. Intriago was also shown to be at that meeting.

Aside from those two South Florida men, West Palm Beach resident James G. Vincent, 55, surrendered to Haitian authorities, saying he worked with the Colombians as a translator and was a former DEA informant. In an unusual move, the DEA issued a statement saying one of the Haitian arrests involved a former informant.

Charles said late Wednesday that Haitians provided vehicles, homes, arms, even a fake logo of the DEA as part of the plot that involved at least three individuals with drug trafficking ties, an ex-Haitian senator, a former anti-corruption official and a bankrupt Haitian doctor, Sanon, who lives in South Florida.

Police have now issued wanted posters for those four individuals and have searched 10 buildings and homes that they believe may have been used in the plot, or housed some of the suspects.

Still unanswered is a motive for the gruesome assassination and an explanation as to why none of the members of the presidents security detail were killed or injured in the overnight-hours attack.

The police will not stop, Charles said, adding that there are others they are looking for. The police are mobilized 24-7.
Be prepared, not scared.

That's the mantra in the rural Northern California town of Paradise, virtually destroyed by a wildfire less than three years ago. Today Paradise sits 10 miles from the Dixie Fire, an uncontained blaze that has swept through more than 3 square miles of mostly brush and timber since igniting Wednesday.

The fire is one of more than 70 in 12 states from California to Minnesota fueled by weeks of heat, drought and other factors in a relentless loop this summer.

Paradise Mayor Steve Crowder lost his home and his business in 2018 to the Camp Fire, the most deadly wildfire in modern U.S. history. He's back, and his family's embroidery and shirt printing business, A Stitch Above, will be back as soon as the building is completed, he said.

Crowder said he is "trying to play rumor control" to keep residents calm.

"Difficult access and steep terrain are slowing the progress of suppression efforts," fire managers said in a statement, adding that the fire "continues to burn away from populated areas."

Crowder said he and fire officials were cautiously optimistic.

"It is supposed to heat up a little bit, but there is no expectation of any big wind event, which is good," Crowder told USA TODAY. "So Cal Fire is hoping to have another good day today."

Town officials tried to calm nerves in a Facebook post: "There are still NO EVACUATION WARNINGS OR EVACUATION ORDERS for the Town of Paradise," the post said. It added that town, California fire and Butte County authorities were closely monitoring the blaze.

Joyce Mclean rebuilt her burned-out home and will do so again if necessary, she told KHSL-TV.

We just take each day as it comes, and if it happens, it happens, Mclean said. Theres not much that we can do about it.

But some residents were on edge. Larry Peterson, whose home in neighboring Magalia survived the previous blaze, said some of his neighbors were getting their belongings together in case they had to flee.

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Anytime youve got a fire after what we went through, and another one is coming up, youve got to be concerned, he told the TV station.

More than 34,400 wildfires have burned 2,255,218 million acres this year in the U.S., the National Interagency Fire Center estimates. The Pacific Northwest Region of the Forest Service said it had moved to Preparedness Level 5, the highest.

"This is quite early in the fire season to reach that level," the Forest Service tweeted.

West to remain 'tragically dry' for at least a week. Oregon blaze may burn until fall.

The largest blaze is the Bootleg Fire in Oregon, which has has now torched an area larger than New York City and has stymied firefighters for nearly a week with erratic winds and extremely dangerous fire behavior.

It remains only 7% contained, the Forest Service says, and full containment is expected before October. The fire Thursday started growing rapidly, prompting evacuation orders for more Oregonians.

Were trying to determine where is it moving, how far and how fast, to determine what to do with evacuation levels, said Gert Zoutendijk, spokesman for the Oregon office of the State Fire Marshal. The big word is for everyone in Lake County to be aware and start getting signed up for the alert system if they have not already.

Triple-digit temperatures could smash records in the Upper Midwest in coming days. The glum silver lining: "There is the chance that smoke from nearby wildfires can keep the sky hazy, which could curb some of the heat," AccuWeather meteorologist Jessica Storm said.

Firefighters Garret Suza, right, and Cameron Taylor, with the Chiloquin Forest Service, search for hot spots on the North East side of the Bootleg Fire, Wednesday, July 14, 2021, near Sprague River, Ore.

A heat dome building in the northern Rockies will cause temperatures  already above normal  to rocket higher into next week, Accuweather says.

In Montana, Sunday's record high of 104 in Billings, set in 1955, is projected to be tied. Triple-digit temperatures were forecast to rise into early next week, AccuWeather meteorologist Jessica Storm said. Monday's forecast high temperature is 105 degrees, which would equal the record from 1960.

A heat dome occurs when there is a strong change in ocean temperatures from west to east in the tropical Pacific Ocean. Warm air coming from the western part of the Pacific Ocean gets trapped in the jet stream as it approaches land. When that hot air arrives over land, the atmosphere traps the hot air as if a lid were put on it.

It already has been a hot summer. The nation has set 585 all-time heat records in the past 30 days, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. They include 349 daily high temperatures and 236 warmest overnight lows.

Temperatures were expected to ease later next week, but don't look for cool weather anytime soon, Storm said.

"Extreme heat is expected to relent slightly as next week continues, but temperatures are still anticipated to remain well above normal," she said.

Contributing: Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Wildfires in the West: More extreme heat and weather this weekend
By Carlos Vargas

BOGOTA (Reuters) - Many of the Colombian ex-soldiers accused of involvement in the assassination of Haiti's president went to the country as bodyguards, Colombian President Ivan Duque said on Thursday, but others had detailed knowledge about the planned assassination.

Haitian authorities have said President Jovenel Moise was shot dead at his home by a unit of assassins. Eighteen Colombians have been detained and three others killed by police. Families and colleagues back in Colombia have told journalists the men were hired to act as bodyguards.

"There was a big group that were taken on a supposed protection mission, but within that group, there's a smaller group, which were those who apparently had detailed knowledge of what was to be a criminal operation," Duque told local La FM radio.

(Reporting by Carlos Vargas; Writing by Julia Symmes Cobb, Editing by Franklin Paul)
NASA's Mars rover Perseverance has sent pictures back to Earth of a unique rock formation within what the space agency called an "ancient lakebed" in its latest reported discovery during it mission on the Red Planet.

"Check out this patch of rock I found: looks kind of like garden pavers, and is probably exposed bedrock," read a message from the research robot's Twitter account on Wednesday. "Material like this, from the early days of this ancient lakebed, can help capture what that lake was like. Spending a few days investigating"

Perseverance arrived on Mars on Feb. 18 after a six-month journey through space. The rover's landing site was at the Jezero Crater, and "scientists believe the area was once flooded with water and was home to an ancient river delta," according to NASA.

NASA'S PERSEVERANCE MARS ROVER MARKS 100 DAYS ON THE RED PLANET

The rover is being assisted by Ingenuity, NASA's Mars helicopter, which made its ninth flight on Mars earlier this month. Ingenuity made history on April 19 by completing the first controlled flight by an aircraft on a planet other than Earth.

"My science team is poring over these color images from the #MarsHelicopters latest flight," Perseverance's Twitter account posted last week along with video of Martian terrain. "Ingenuity crossed over a region that would be tricky for me to drive on, adding a new perspective to the picture of Jezero Crater that Im piecing together."

INGENUITY MARS HELICOPTER SETS STAGE FOR SPACE FLIGHT ON OTHER WORLDS, NASA TEAM MEMBERS SAY

Perseverance's mission on Mars includes searching the Red Planet for signs of ancient microbial life, collecting samples, surveying the geological features within the Jezero Crater, and sending images back to Earth.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Perseverance marked NASA's ninth landing on Mars and is the agency's fifth rover. She is also the largest, weighing in at more than a metric ton.
Nearly 200 absentee ballots in Fulton County, Georgia, were double-counted in the 2020 election.

A review of mail-in ballot digital images made public under Georgia's new voting law revealed duplicates that appeared before a recount. One such ballot contained a write-in for hip-hop star Kanye West and actor Dwayne Johnson for president and vice president, respectively.

As reported by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, there is no indication the double-counted ballots influenced the final total votes for either former President Donald Trump or President Joe Biden, though the duplicates would have given Biden 27 more votes if they were tabulated.

VoterGa, a group that organized a lawsuit seeking a high-resolution re-scans of ballots and an in-person review of unsealed 147,000 absentee ballots, said duplicates are just one form of evidence in the 2020 election process that suggest fraud in the contest.

GEORGIA OBSERVER SAYS FULTON COUNTY ELECTION WAS SLOPPY BUT NO FRAUD FOUND

If were finding this in Fulton County, were probably going to find it throughout the state. The question is, why did it happen? said David Cross, a member of the group contesting the election results. The simple fact that it happened and we found it here means that it probably occurred elsewhere.

Carter Jones, an independent monitor of Fulton's elections, posited an election worker may have lost track of which ballots were scanned. He said the chances of organized fraud were small.

Its Fulton failing to follow proper election protocols again, he said. Fulton is so poor at managing the actual process that if they had actually tried to rig the election, they would have bungled it, and we would have found out.

Biden received nearly 73% of the vote in Fulton County, a Democratic stronghold, while Trump was favored by 26% of residents. Biden garnered 243,904 more votes in the county.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Trump lost the state of Georgia by around 12,000 votes, and Republican allies of the former president have sought to contest the ballot counts throughout the state, particularly in Fulton County, after election officials were slower to report tallies in the aftermath of the election. Fulton's two separate recounts attested to the validity of the tallies.

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Trump made headlines after November for asking Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to "find" the necessary votes to solidify his election victory in the once solid-red state, prompting the opening of a criminal investigation in February.

A report written by an independent election observer monitoring the November election in Fulton, which includes much of Atlanta, found the county's election was sloppily handled but did not uncover any fraud. Raffensperger opened an investigation last month into the handling of paperwork in Fulton County related to the use of drop boxes for the 2020 election.

Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: News, Georgia, Voting, Vote Recounts, Voter Fraud, Election Fraud, 2020 Elections

Original Author: Jake Dima

Original Location: Nearly 200 absentee ballots initially counted twice in Georgia's Fulton County
Data: Proyecto Inventario; Map: Will Chase/Axios

Sara Naranjo, 88, took to Cuba's streets this past week because she is "done with being hungry, unemployed, without water, without power." Naranjo is one of thousands of Cubans to take part in what activists said were the largest anti-government protests on the island in decades.

What's happening: People like Naranjo, who remembers Cuba before the revolution, joined thousands of younger Cubans, who have only known Communism, in the massive street protests despite their fear of the governments harsh response.

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Why it matters: Sundays seemingly spontaneous mobilizations across the island were something unseen in 60 years of castrista rule.

Anti-government protests even erupted in the southeast province of Santiago de Cuba, Fidel Castros stronghold during the revolution and where he is buried.

So much hunger ate away at our fear, one demonstrator, Wendy Guerra, told the independent Cuban news site 14yMedio.

The big picture: The pandemic deepened Cubans frustrations with lack of food and resources that had simmered for decades.

Tourism, mostly from Canada and Europe, dried up along with the hard currency it provided.

Mismanagement of the islands state-run economy, already under a U.S. embargo since 1962, sent Cubas GDP crashing by 11% last year, its worst showing since the former Soviet Union stopped subsidies in the early 1990s.

Chronic power cuts and shortages of food and medicines have been more acute, while the nearly quarter-million people who have had coronavirus have had to seek treatment from a healthcare system on the verge of collapse.

Vaccinations have been scarce since the government decided not to participate in the COVAX sharing program for developing nations and to develop its own shots.

Between the lines: Pockets of overt dissidence had been growing even before Raul Castro, Fidel Castros younger brother and his deputy during the revolution, stepped down in June as head of the Communist Party.

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Movimiento San Isidro, a young coalition of artists, journalists and academics formed in 2019, urged more Cubans to make their dissatisfaction public.

Musicians and San Isidro members, Maykel Osorbo and El Funky, were joined by Yotuel, Gente De Zona, and Descemer Bueno to release the song Patria y Vida (Homeland and Life), which became an anthem for this weeks protesters.

Its lyrics demand no more lies and no more doctrine, telling those who cling to the revolution that their time is past.

The growing availability of the internet, though also controlled by a state-run company, has allowed like-minded Cubans to share their frustrations more easily, like they did on Sunday.

The protests erupted days after #SOSCuba began to trend on social media, with Cubans demanding humanitarian assistance to address the islands many crises.

Where it stands: At least one person  36-year-old Diubis Laurencio Tejeda, who was from an especially impoverished part of Havana  has died during the protests, according to local reports.

The government shutdown the internet and phone lines after the first protest on Sunday.

Reliable information regarding arrests is hard to come by with estimates ranging between 200 and 5,000 people.

In Washington, the Biden administration has said the protests are remarkable, but has not yet indicated whether further policy changes were coming.

The U.S. has warned Cubans who might attempt to emigrate across the Florida Straits that they would be turned back.

In Havana, meanwhile, President Miguel Diaz-Canel has pointed to the U.S. embargo as the cause of his countrys economic woes and accused U.S. authorities of financing and promoting non-conventional warfare.

On Wednesday, the Cuban government announced that tariffs on the private import of food, medicine and personal care products would be lifted at least until December.

By the numbers: 3.5% of all Latinos in the U.S. are of Cuban ancestry or Cuban immigrants, the fifth largest Latino or Hispanic cultural group.

Most live in Florida. The states weight in the Electoral College means Cuban Americans have outsized political influence.

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Jul. 15A Powell man pleaded guilty to five armed robberies in February and March at the same Doller General in Dayton.

David Joseph Carter II, 21, robbed the Salem Avenue store while armed with a gun on Feb. 3, 8, 13 and 28 and March 7, according to the U.S. Department of Justice Southern District of Ohio.

He reportedly showed a gun and stole cash during each robbery.

Shortly after the March 7 robbery, the Dayton Police Department's Violent Offenders Unit searched the apartment where Carter was staying and found the clothing and shoes he wore during the robbery.

Carter, who is a Butler County Jail inmate, pleaded guilty Wednesday to interfering with commerce by threats or violence and to brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, according to the DOJ.

He faces a minimum of seven years and up to life in prison.
(Reuters) - Pfizer on Thursday said it was only in talks with the Thai government, after a Thai hospital group said it was signing a deal for 20 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines.

"We are in ongoing discussions with Thailands Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health only," Pfizer said in a statement after the chairman of hospital operator Thonburi Healthcare Group Pcl said he was signing a deal for 20 million doses with BioNTech on Thursday.

(Reporting by Ludwig Burger; Writing by Chayut Setboonsarng; Editing by Ed Davies)
A fleet of Chinese vessels squatting in the disputed waters of the South China Sea is damaging the environment with a stream of sewage, according to satellite imagery that has Beijing steaming and provoked a complaint from Philippine officials.

It is a serious defamation against China, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told reporters, per the South China Morning Post. China expresses its strong condemnation.

Chinese officials adopted a more lighthearted posture in the transcript of the press briefing Thursday, which quoted Zhao as saying that the report is one of the best joke[s] recently. The underlying dispute is no laughing matter, however, as the assembled vessels represent an assertion of Chinese sovereignty over waters claimed by the Philippines in a region prized by military strategists across the globe.

When the ships dont move, the poop piles up, Simularity CEO Liz Derr, whose company conducts geospatial imagery analysis of the South China Sea, said this week. We've done this from space because that's really all anybody can do right now because the area is really militarized, but I wholeheartedly encourage the government to validate our findings, question our findings, understand the science, and see for themselves.

MANNY PACQUIAO PRODS DUTERTE TO GET TOUGH ON CHINA AS PRESIDENTIAL SHOWDOWN LOOMS

The vessels dropped anchor in March, with Beijing portraying the fleet as fishermen seeking shelter from prospective bad weather. International observers regard the fleet rather as a move by Chinas maritime militia to reinforce Beijings claim to control over the waters around the Spratly Islands  valuable waters for Philippine fishermen that are now home to Chinese military outposts constructed on artificial islands.

"The continuous swarming of Chinese vessels poses a threat to the safety of navigation, safety of life at sea, and impedes the exclusive right of Filipinos to benefit from marine wealth in the [Philippiness exclusive economic zone], a Philippine government agency protested this week.

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Simularitys report surfaced as U.S. and Philippine officials marked the fifth anniversary of an international tribunals ruling that Chinas claim to sovereignty in the area is illegitimate.

We call on the PRC to abide by its obligations under international law, cease its provocative behavior, and take steps to reassure the international community that it is committed to the rules-based maritime order that respects the rights of all countries, big and small, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said this week.

Chinas aggression in the region has benefited from Philippine President Rodrigo Dutertes hesitance to confront Beijing, but the report of the damage done by the sewage stirred the presidents team.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

"Our position on the entry of waste and garbage is clear, Duterte spokesman Harry Roque told reporters Thursday. If proven, if the wastes are not returned to their source, they can hear harsh words and a warning that they should stop it because the Philippines is not a toilet of anyone.

Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: News, Foreign Policy, National Security, China, South China Sea, State Department, Rodrigo Duterte, Antony Blinken

Original Author: Joel Gehrke

Original Location: Philippines warns about sewage from ships squatting in South China Sea
Jul. 15ANDERSON  New charges were filed against an Anderson man Wednesday after a couple accused him of assault and robbery at a local motel, according to authorities.

A previous warrant was issued for Amorn Chordpunyawongse, 39, on June 21 for Level 4 felony unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon, Level 5 felony battery by means of a deadly weapon, Level 6 felony pointing a firearm at another and Level 6 felony intimidation.

On Wednesday, Madison County filed five new felonies: Level 3 felony robbery resulting in bodily injury, Level 4 felony unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon, two counts of Level 5 felony intimidation and Level 6 felony battery resulting in moderate bodily injury.

Anderson police responded to a battery at 12:24 p.m. May 24, according to an affidavit of probable cause by APD Officer Cora Betteridge. The battery took place at the Mar Jon motel, 1327 E. 53rd St.; the victims went to a nearby tobacco store to call police.

Jaden Elder and his girlfriend, Kayla McBride, were waiting for her at the store. Elder had two broken teeth and a hole in his lip where his tooth had gone through.

Medics were called to the store and treated Elder, according to the affidavit.

Earlier, Elder and McBride had pulled up to the motel on his moped. Elder said a man who goes by the name of China, later identified as Chordpunyawongse, walked out of one of the rooms at the Mar Jon with a silver pistol. The couple said Chordpunyawongse cocked the gun and acted like he was going to hit McBride but then punched Elder in the face.

That punch knocked Elder, the moped and $200 to the ground; Chordpunyawongse grabbed the money, according to the affidavit. He then went into the motel room where he was staying before leaving with two women. That's when the couple went to the tobacco shop to report the robbery.

McBride told police that Chordpunyawongse has had an issue with her family for a while and threatened to burn down her home in the 2700 block of Jackson Street shortly before the house caught on fire, according to the affidavit.

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Elder told Betteridge that Chordpunyawongse was wanted on a Madison County warrant for an incident in which Chordpunyawongse is accused of striking Elder with a gun.

Betteridge said a background check on Chordpunyawongse showed he was a serious, violent felon and should not possess a handgun.

Chordpunyawongse was last seen in a green older model Honda with a red bumper, according to the affidavit.

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@_TraciMiller on Twitter, email her at traci.miller@heraldbulletin.com, or

call her at 765-640-4805.
A federal judge denied the request of a group of seven lawyers, including Sidney Powell and Lin Wood, who petitioned through their legal counsel on Wednesday to release the footage of a Detroit sanctions hearing on Monday over concerns about misinformation.

Linda Parker, a judge for U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, rejected the motion in a brief opinion that said 13,000 people viewed the proceedings and the courtroom was viewed by far more people than if it was conducted in person. Donald Campbell, the lawyer representing the seven pro-Trump attorneys, insisted the public release of video of the hearing that focused on whether they would face penalties for their 2020 election litigation seeking to overturn the results would help his clients "refute what they believe to be public mischaracterizations" of the proceedings, according to The Detroit News.

The six-hour hearing was initially available for viewers to livestream but removed per court rules.

LIN WOOD DISTANCES HIMSELF FROM MICHIGAN ELECTION LAWSUIT IN SANCTIONS HEARING

"On a matter of this importance for the country, the rule of law and the practice of law itself, the video of the proceedings already made should be available for the public for them to judge the arguments of counsel and the entire hearing itself," Campbell wrote in his motion.

Attorney General Dana Nessel, who has defended the integrity of the November election, testified during the hearing, saying the lawyers' unsuccessful 2020 lawsuit was "obviously questionable" with "layers of hearsay." Powell stood her ground and maintained she and others upheld the "highest standards" as they backed former President Donald Trump's claims of widespread fraud.

"We have practiced law with the highest standards," Powell said. "We would file the same complaints again. We welcome an opportunity to actually prove our case. No court has ever given us that opportunity."

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Contrary to Powell's defense, Wood distanced himself from the so-called "Kraken" litigation.

I played absolutely no role in the drafting of the complaint, just to be clear, he said. I did not review any of the documents with respect to the complaint. My name was placed on there, but I had no involvement.

The judge asked Wood if he had given any of the other lawyers permission to put his name on the lawsuit.

I do not specifically recall being asked about the Michigan complaint, but I had generally indicated to Sidney Powell that if she needed a quote-unquote trial lawyer, I would certainly be willing or available to help her, he responded, noting he offered to help Powell but did so broadly. Would I have objected to being included by name? I dont believe so.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Powell and others sued the state in a lawsuit, King v. Whitmer, asserting widespread election fraud took place on behalf of three Republican Electoral College electors and three local GOP officials. The lawsuit was dismissed, as were dozens of other cases around the country challenging the results. The Supreme Court determined in February it would not weigh in on the Michigan case.

Powell has been sued for defamation by two election technology companies.

President Joe Biden won the state of Michigan and its 16 electoral votes by more than 154,000 votes. More than 250 countywide audits confirmed the accuracy of the certified results, Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced in March.

Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: News, Michigan, Sidney Powell, 2020 Elections, Election Fraud, Detroit, Voter Fraud, Voting, Donald Trump

Original Author: Jake Dima

Original Location: Judge denies request by pro-Trump lawyers to release video of Detroit sanctions hearing
By Catarina Demony and Sergio Goncalves

LISBON (Reuters) - Portugal on Thursday extended to a wider area of the country measures aimed at stemming a surge in coronavirus infections, with authorities scrambling to salvage the summer holiday season.

"We continue in a race against time between the vaccination and the pandemic," Cabinet Minister Mariana Vieira da Silva told a news conference. "The situation continues to deteriorate."

Last week the government designated 60 municipalities as high or high-risk, but this number now rose to 90 as the more contagious Delta variant continues to spread, already representing all new cases in the Lisbon area and the popular Algarve region.

A night curfew starting at 11 p.m. is in place in the 90 municipalities, which include Lisbon, Porto and tourist magnet Albufeira, where working from home also remains compulsory whenever possible. Mainland Portugal has 278 municipalities.

In 47 of the designated 90 municipalities - where the risk of transmission is deemed higher - people wanting to dine indoors at restaurants on Friday evenings or at the weekend must present a negative coronavirus test, a vaccination certificate or proof of recovery.

Supermarkets will from now on be able to sell rapid coronavirus tests, Vieira da Silva said.

Case numbers in Portugal, which has a population of 10 million, have been rising steadily in recent weeks, returning to levels last seen when the country was under a strict lockdown. It reported over 4,000 cases on Wednesday for the first time since February.

Daily deaths and hospitalisations remain well below February levels, with new cases primarily reported among younger, unvaccinated people.

Authorities have accelerated the inoculation rollout, but on Thursday, they temporarily suspended an "open house" vaccination service that allowed people over 40 to get the shot without booking an appointment in advance.

(Reporting by Catarina Demony and Sergio Goncalves; Editing by Frances Kerry)
The case against a retired Boise police officer who faced multiple felony rape charges will continue after an Ada County judge declined to accept an agreement Wednesday that included guilty pleas to only two misdemeanor charges.

Scott Wayne McMikle appeared for a virtual hearing Wednesday morning for what was supposed to be his sentencing. He had agreed to guilty pleas on two misdemeanor counts of sexual battery as part of a deal with prosecutors. An amended charging document containing the two misdemeanors was filed May 19, according to court records  a noticeable downgrade from the nine felony rape counts he was charged with in February.

In Idaho, a felony rape conviction carries a potential sentence of up to life in prison.

Despite the deal, Magistrate Judge David Manweiler told the court that he did not feel comfortable with the plea, because of the seriousness of the initial charges. He rejected the agreement, which allowed for McMikle to withdraw his guilty plea to the misdemeanors. With the agreement off the table, the original charges  nine counts of rape  were reinstated.

Manweiler noted that he was not the judge who initially approved the plea deal. That judge later recused themselves from the case. Manweiler did not identify the judge and it was unclear why they stepped away. There are no formal court filings announcing the recusal, so the judges identity is not known.

When reached for comment on the changing charges against McMikle, Emily Lowe, a spokesperson for the Ada County Prosecutors Office, sent a statement to the Idaho Statesman: The complexion of the case has changed, as such the case will be proceeding as a felony on the original complaint. We cannot comment further on pending litigation.

In December 2020, the Meridian Police Department began investigating after being contacted about an alleged rape in 2008, according to Stephany Galbreaith, public information officer with MPD. Police learned that the suspect was McMikle, who was then retired and living in Hammon, Louisiana.

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Each rape count against McMikle relates to the same victim, who was incapacitated and unable to consent or defend herself against the suspect, Galbreaith said in February, when McMikle was arrested.

McMikle worked for the Boise Police Department from 1983 to May 2015 and retired as a corporal. The alleged crimes occurred between April and December in 2008, during his tenure with BPD.

Upon hearing of Meridians investigation and a subsequent warrant being issued for McMikles arrest, Boise police opened an internal inquiry to review any past complaints made against McMikle, said BPD spokesperson Haley Williams in February.

The Boise Police Department holds its employees to the highest standards and will investigate all allegations of misconduct, Williams said in a statement after McMikles arrest.

Boise Police did not immediately respond to a question about the status of that internal investigation.

McMikles next court appearance is a preliminary hearing scheduled for Aug. 18.
Sharon Osbourne, left, and Elaine Welteroth were recorded in conversation after an incident on "The Talk" that led to Osbourne's firing. (Rich Fury / Getty Images, left; Rodin Eckenroth / Getty Images, right)

Elaine Welteroth fully supported Sharon Osbourne, her fellow panelist on "The Talk," and said she also felt "set up" by producers in search of ratings as Osbourne dissolved in tears after the harsh exchange that led to Osbourne's firing earlier this year.

The new revelation comes courtesy of audio obtained by the Daily Mail of a conversation that took place March 10 between the two women and included Sharon's son, Jack, and an unnamed makeup artist. That was the day after Osbourne defended friend Piers Morgan for not believing statements the former Meghan Markle made in the interview she did with Prince Harry and Oprah Winfrey.

It was also the day Osbourne and Sheryl Underwood had a tense, on-camera exchange that wound up with Osbourne, who is white, lashing out at Underwood and asking her Black cohost to "educate" her as to what exactly Morgan had said that was racist.

CBS put "The Talk" on an extended hiatus to deal with the situation. On March 26, Osbourne was fired from the show she had been on since its 2010 debut. This week, guest panelist Jerry O'Connell was announced as Osbourne's permanent replacement.

In the March 10 recording made public Wednesday afternoon  and it's unclear who recorded it  Welteroth tries to comfort Osbourne, who seems nearly in hysterics.

Osbourne says she was told by producers just four minutes before the televised conversation that some people might not agree with her opinion about Morgan's stance and was asked if she would be OK talking about it. She said sure.

"I never thought it was gonna be ... that," Osbourne says. "Because ... whatever you say, you just look guilty. And now everybody's gonna have that little seed of doubt: 'Well you know, maybe she's a bit racist.' ... These people here, that run this, have no ethics. They don't care. They just want numbers, numbers, numbers."

Welteroth tells Osbourne that Underwood is still Osbourne's friend who loves and respects her and wasn't trying to attack her.

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"Here's the thing that I just want you to just know," says Welteroth, who is Black. "Sheryl and I are held to a different standard by Black people and people of color out there who expect us to say something about every racist anything ... and it puts us in such a f up position. That even if we don't have the information, if we don't even really care, if we don't really wanna engage, it feels like there's a spotlight on us, you know?"

Osbourne, who had apparently spent the night before fielding attacks on Twitter over her defense of Morgan, replies, "Now I feel the big picture. I know what happened. I know what happened ... they set me up. CBS set me up. And they don't care because they just want ratings. They don't care. They don't care that I will now have to go around and people think I'm racist. They don't give a s. They just want ratings. That's all."

Welteroth goes on to say, "It felt like we were all set up  particularly you  but I also felt set up because I was like sitting there and Sheryl goes, 'What would you like to say?' I'm like ... what the f? I don't have nothing to say. Why are we having this conversation right now?"

She wonders why they were even discussing things on the show that hadn't been said on the show but rather on social media.

"There's this pressure to demonstrate how to talk about this stuff, but we haven't ever been guided on how to f do this," Welteroth says. "I'm not a D&I [diversity and inclusion] expert. I didn't know I was gonna come on here and be the  I don't know how to do that, actually."

Osbourne responds with a touch of humor, saying, "No! Neither do I, I'm just a f old woman [background laughter] that has a lot of stories. I don't f care if you're an alien. Are you a nice alien? Then come sit down."

Representatives for Welteroth, Osbourne and "The Talk" did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The initial discussion about Morgan happened March 9 after the former "Good Morning Britain" host walked off his show permanently after a discussion about Meghan's claims to Winfrey that there was racism in the royal family, which Morgan didn't believe.

"You fight for your queen and your country, and hes a royalist," Osbourne said. "I think he is hurt by Meghan, terribly. Thats why he wont drop it. Its a personal thing for him."

On the March 10 show, Underwood asked Osbourne what she had to say to those who said the former Americas Got Talent judge was providing cover for a racist. Osbourne declared that neither she nor Morgan is a racist, and the conversation went sideways.

I feel even like Im about to be put in the electric chair because I have a friend who many people think is a racist, so that makes me a racist, Osbourne said on air. She dropped an F-bomb aimed at her cohost as the show went to commercial break and told Underwood not to cry during their exchange, saying if anyone should be crying it should be her.

Its not the exact words of racism," Underwood explained. "Its the implication and the reaction to it. To not want to address that because [Meghan] is a Black woman and to try to dismiss it or to make it seem less than what it is, thats what makes it racist, Underwood said, adding that she didnt want anyone to think the panel was attacking Osbourne for being racist.

Osbourne apologized publicly via social media March 11, saying she had panicked, felt blindsided during the segment. Underwood, meanwhile, moved on with a forgiveness first attitude. Still, there was disagreement about whether Osbourne had reached out personally to Underwood to say she was sorry.

The events of the March 10 broadcast were upsetting to everyone involved, including the audience watching at home, CBS said in a statement March 26. As part of our review, we concluded that Sharons behavior toward her co-hosts during the March 10 episode did not align with our values for a respectful workplace.

"We also did not find any evidence that CBS executives orchestrated the discussion or blindsided any of the hosts.

"The Talk" came back in April with an episode where cohosts Underwood, Welteroth, Amanda Kloots and Carrie Ann Inaba engaged with a diversity and inclusion expert. Inaba announced a couple of weeks later that she would be taking a leave of absence from the show to focus on her health.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
TOKYO (Reuters) - Human rights groups on Thursday called for Japan to cancel a real estate project involving Myanmar's defence ministry, saying the project is linked to the military, which has waged a deadly crackdown since the February 1 coup.

Japan's private firms and a state entity are engaged in a multi-million dollar hotel and office development on land owned by Myanmar's defence ministry, Reuters reported earlier.

Rights groups, including Human Rights Watch, said https://www.hrw.org/news/2021/07/15/japan-stop-real-estate-project-myanmar Japan failed to assess the risk associated with doing business in Myanmar.

"We strongly condemn the fact that Japan's public funds likely ended up in the hands of the Tatmadaw," said Yuka Kiguchi, Executive Director of Mekong Watch, referring to Myanmar's armed forces.

Through rent payments, the Y Complex project benefits Myanmar's defence ministry, which is controlled by the military under the country's constitution, the groups say.

Japanese company and government officials have said they thought the rent, which was paid by an intermediary, was ultimately going to Myanmar's government, not the military.

(Reporting by Ju-min Park; Editing by Gerry Doyle)
People are seen outside the California Diner restaurant in Arbat Street, Moscow, Russia. Artyom Geodakyan\TASS via Getty Images

Delivery Club launched temporary QR code tattoos to encourage and remind Russians to get vaccinated.

Restaurant patrons in Moscow are currently required to show a QR code proving they are vaccinated or have a negative COVID-19 test in order to eat indoors

Russia is currently battling a fresh wave of COVID-19, with vaccine hesitancy hampering containment.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

Want to enter a restaurant in Moscow? You'll need a QR code for that.

QR codes showing proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test are currently required by the city in order to dine inside at restaurants and bars. While most people carry their QR codes on their smartphones, the food service company Delivery Club is now offering a more novel way of proving vaccination.

They teamed up with Everink Tattoo - a startup that makes temporary tattoos - to produce temporary QR code tattoos you can stick on your arm.

Each tattoo is waterproof and lasts for about two weeks. There are six designs to choose from, and the tattoos cost 590 rubles (about $8) each. One design features a floral pattern, while another offers the saying "I believe in you," the Moscow Times reported.

Delivery Club said it hopes these tattoos can highlight the importance of getting vaccinated while also giving a much-needed boost to restaurants and bars that have been hard hit by the pandemic, reported Reuters.

Tattoo wearers will still be required to show identification along with their QR code tats, in order to enter establishments, according to the Moscow Times.

Russia is currently experiencing a new wave of COVID-19 cases, with more than 171,000 cases registered this past week, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.

At the same time, it's also struggling with a low vaccination rate due to vaccine hesitancy, as some remain skeptical of the Russian-made Sputnik V vaccine, reported Al Jazeera.

Only around 13% of the population - or about 19 million people - has been fully vaccinated, according to Johns Hopkins.

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"With our temporary tattoos, we want to defuse the current situation a bit, and along the way diversify and make the process of presenting QR codes at city institutions more interesting," Delivery Club told RIA Novosti news agency in a statement.

Delivery Club and Everink did not respond immediately to requests for comment from Insider.

Read the original article on Insider
Days after a nearby condo tower collapsed in the middle of the night, Marash Markaj lay in bed with his 9-year-old daughter, holding her close as nerves kept her awake and her mind raced about the implications of the unsafe structure violation Miami Beach inspectors had just placed on their own condo tower.

Markaj had seen cracks in the basement garage of the Port Royale Condominium, where he has owned an eighth floor unit for five years. But management had recently told residents the building was safe. So, though he wasnt sure what exactly to make of the July 6 warning that his building could be demolished if repairs werent forthcoming, he soothed his little girl.

I said no baby, relax, Markaj told the Miami Herald on Tuesday. I swear, I had to go to bed and hug her for one hour before she fell asleep.

Though building failures are rare, the devastating June 24 collapse of the 12-story Champlain Towers South in Surfside has created unease at aging condo towers slapped amid a reactive wave of building inspections with alarming, difficult-to-understand violations  and undercut trust in assurances from property managers and government officials that identified problems are under control.

In Miami Beach alone, inspectors have recently visited more than 500 older buildings undergoing Miami-Dade Countys 40-year recertification process, which requires structural and electrical evaluations of older buildings after 40 years, and every 10 years after that. The city has ordered evacuations at two apartment buildings, and identified others, like the Port Royale Condominium at 6969 Collins Ave., as working to address structural issues and safe for occupancy.

The Port Royale Condo, at 6969 Collins Ave., was given an unsafe structures violation on July 6, but documents and photos detailing the violation, and an engineers assurance that the building was safe to occupy, were not released by the city until July 14.

At Port Royale, where a July 6 violation was placed on the front lobby window with bright red tape reading IMPORTANT NOTICE, gashes are visible in a concrete column of the parking garage, a chunk of an exterior wall is broken off, and cracks are visible in the garage and near multiple windows. Cited issues at the tower, constructed in 1971 with 164 units, included structure deterioration and concrete spalling. The buildings management has since stressed that it remains safe, and a spokeswoman for the city government told the Miami Herald on July 9 that crews had done shoring  reinforcing areas that need repair  to fix the problem.

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Still, Markaj said he and some of his neighbors occupying the buildings one-bedroom units remained uneasy about the situation as specific details and documents illuminating the problems at the building and any efforts by the homeowners association to address them were in short supply. The shoring didnt actually begin until Wednesday, when crews installed a system of steel posts in the garage. And efforts to glean more information took time or were met with resistance: Miami Beach City Hall took four days to release building records and pictures detailing the violation and the buildings response, and a property manager has refused to discuss the building with the Herald, going so far as to warn Markaj not to speak to a reporter.

Be careful what you say, Amarilys Oliu, a Port Royale condo owner who serves as building manager, said to Markaj on Tuesday morning, pointing her finger at him. Youll be sorry.

The flow of information

In an email to owners on July 9, Oliu disclosed the violation but said city inspectors had on July 2 told management everything was fine after a walk-through. She wrote that the buildings engineering firm had already responded to the city about the violation, though that response was not attached to the email.

Port Royale Condo owner Marash Markaj took this photo of the shoring that was done Wednesday, July 14, to support an area that needed concrete repairs in the buildings basement garage.

Meanwhile, other buildings with similar sounding violations have been evacuated. On July 3, the city cleared out the three-story building at 1619 Lenox Ave. in South Beach after inspectors found a flooring system failure in a vacant unit and exterior wall damage.

In the case of the Devon Apartments, a low-slung 1931 building at 6881 Indian Creek Dr., the city recently gave tenants one week to vacate the two-story, 30-unit building over deficiencies in structural components. Officials said the building is not in danger of imminent collapse, but the city still ordered about a dozen residents to vacate the property. The unsafe structures violation described evidence of structure deterioration, including spalling concrete.

Spalling occurs when salt water seeps into porous concrete and causes the reinforced steel rods known as rebar in the support beams to rust and expand. That expansion can then cause the concrete to break up, weakening beams. While it is unknown to what extent, if any, the issue contributed to the Champlains collapse, concrete spalling was observed in inspections of the parking garage before the tower fell.

Some of the Port Royales spalling is visible from a neighboring property. A piece of exterior wall is gone, revealing a mesh of rebar.

A Miami Beach building inspector photographed this spalling in the concrete on the south side of the Port Royale Condo before issuing the building an unsafe structures violation on July 6. The concrete has broken off, revealing rebar.

Markaj said a city building inspector visited the building in the last week, but when he tried to speak to the inspector, Oliu interrupted the conversation and escorted the inspector away.

She dont want nobody to talk to nobody, said Markaj.

Considered safe

When Beach administrators finally released records Wednesday morning  one week after the violation notice  they revealed more than 20 photos showing the cracks and spalling, and a July 8 letter signed by an engineer with an assurance about the Port Royales safety.

Based on our structural visual inspections and the measurements of safety taken by our contractor, we believe, at this time this building can be considered safe, wrote Hialeah-based Arshad Viqar of Inspection Engineers Inc.

A Miami Beach building inspector on July 6 photographed this section of spalled concrete on the exterior of the Port Royale Condo at 6969 Collins Ave.

A Wednesday letter from the same engineer said that some columns in the garage need repair, necessitating the shoring, and that a complete structural report will be prepared within a few days.

When asked about the violation Tuesday morning at the Port Royale, Oliu declined to comment or provide an engineering report. Oliu and other building employees referred to the Heralds previous reporting on the violation as incorrect, even though the violation is logged in a public municipal database and as of Wednesday afternoon, the violation remained open.

Laura Veitia, another Port Royale condo owner, was not as concerned about the violation, though she said other owners have been sending the city pictures of cracks and spalling since the Surfside collapse.

She does worry that any expensive repairs could be difficult for some of the buildings owners. She said the Port Royale underwent a painful assessment in 2011 for the buildings 40-year recertification  just over $50,000 per unit  that included major concrete restoration, railing replacement and window replacement.

That building is probably one of the most frugal in terms of spending money, Veitia said. We do have a lot of owners there on fixed incomes. It is hard for some people to come up with $50,000.

Public records show that process was not completed until 2014. The building is currently going through the 50-year recertification.

Miami Herald reporter Martin Vassolo contributed to this report.
Saudi Arabia will host another downsized hajj from Saturday, with only residents fully vaccinated against the coronavirus permitted and overseas Muslim pilgrims barred for a second year.

The kingdom seeks to repeat last year's success that saw no virus outbreak during the five-day Muslim ritual.

It is allowing 60,000 residents of Saudi Arabia to participate, higher than in 2020 but drastically lower than in normal times. People will begin to arrive on Saturday, a day before the start of rites.

In 2019, some 2.5 million Muslims from around the world participated in the annual hajj -- a key pillar of Islam that is a must for able-bodied Muslims at least once in their lifetime.

Earlier this month, the hajj ministry said it was working on the "highest levels of health precautions" in light of the pandemic and the emergence of new variants.

Chosen from more than 558,000 applicants through an online vetting system, the event is confined to those who have been fully vaccinated and are aged 18-65 with no chronic illnesses, it said.

The pilgrimage, which typically packs large crowds into congested religious sites, is potentially a super-spreader of the virus.

Aside from strict social distancing measures, the ministry said it will introduce a "smart hajj card" to allow contact-free access to camps, hotels and buses to ferry pilgrims around religious sites.

The card system would also help track down any missing pilgrims, it added.

Authorities have deployed black-and-white robots to dispense bottles of sacred water from the Zamzam spring in Mecca's Grand Mosque, built around the Kaaba, the black cubic structure towards which Muslims around the world pray.

The revered Black Stone in the Kaaba -- which it is customary but not mandatory to touch during the pilgrimage -- is expected to be kept out of reach.

- 'Frustration is growing' -

Saudi Arabia has so far recorded more than 503,000 coronavirus infections, including over 8,000 deaths.

Story continues

More than 20 million vaccine doses against coronavirus have been administered in the country of over 34 million people.

The hajj went ahead last year on the smallest scale in modern history, with authorities initially saying only 1,000 pilgrims were allowed but local media saying up to 10,000 took part.

No infections were reported as authorities set up multiple health facilities, mobile clinics and ambulances to cater for the pilgrims, who were taken to the religious sites in small batches.

They were also given amenity kits that included sterilised pebbles for the "stoning of Satan" ritual, disinfectants, masks, a prayer rug and ihram, the traditional seamless white hajj garment, made from a bacteria-resistant material.

Hosting the hajj is a matter of prestige for Saudi rulers, for whom the custodianship of Islam's holiest sites is their most powerful source of political legitimacy.

But barring overseas pilgrims has caused resentment and anguish among Muslims worldwide, who typically save for years to take part.

"The Saudi government wants to play it completely safe by barring foreign pilgrims for the second consecutive year," Umar Karim, a visiting fellow at Britains Royal United Services Institute, told AFP.

"But frustration is growing across the Muslim world that could raise questions about the kingdoms role as the custodian of holy mosques and result in a reduction of its religious soft power.

"It also spells disaster for the hajj economy worldwide."

- 'Weigh on recovery' -

The hajj and year-round umrah pilgrimages are usually a key revenue earner for the kingdom, not to mention airlines and travel agencies.

In normal times, they together rake in some $12 billion (10.3 billion euros) annually, keeping the economy humming in Mecca.

But downsizing the rituals, which will run until Tuesday, the first day of post-Ramadan holidays, has hit government revenues and battered businesses that support hundreds of thousands of jobs in the holy city, from travel agents to street barbers and souvenir shops.

Mecca has seen a construction boom in recent years that added shopping malls, apartments and luxury hotels, some offering spectacular views of the sacred Kaaba.

But most premises have seen fewer customers since the pandemic.

"The Saudi government's confirmation that the hajj pilgrimage will be extremely limited this year will weigh on the kingdom's economic recovery," said Capital Economics, a research consultancy.

"The government is clearly concerned that a larger hajj could spark a surge in Covid-19 cases and possibly risk importing new virus variants, which could force them to tighten restrictions that harm the economy."

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Sen. Ron Wyden (D., Oreg.)  one of the leading members of Congress pushing to end the federal prohibition of cannabis  argues the federal government is "disconnected from reality" when it comes to legal marijuana.

"The federal government is still living in the era of reefer madness," said Wyden in an interview with Yahoo Finance Live. "The feds are just completely disconnected with what's really going on out on the ground across America."

Wyden pointed to his home state of Oregon  which legalized adult marijuana use in 2014  as evidence that ending the federal prohibition would work.

"Skeptics said, 'Oh my goodness, Western civilization is going to end. People are going to be so confused. The law isn't going to work.' We didn't see any of that, and revenue  which is used for priorities like education and mental health  has gone up six-fold in a very short time."

Wyden, along with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D., N.Y.) and Sen. Cory Booker (D., N.J.) unveiled a draft of their proposal on July 14. The plan would remove cannabis from the federal list of controlled substances, expunge non-violent convictions, create grant programs to aid small businesses and restorative justice programs, and would tax and regulate cannabis.

From left, Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J.,Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., announce a draft bill that would decriminalize marijuana on a federal level Capitol Hill in Washington, on Wednesday, July 14, 2021. The bill, called the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act, would not only decriminalize marijuana, but also expunge the records of those with non-violent convictions related to cannabis and invest money into restorative justice programs. (AP Photo/Amanda Andrade-Rhoades)

Wyden, who is chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, said the trio wanted to tax marijuana in a way similar to tobacco and alcohol.

"We wanted to give a real leg up to small businesses and minority entrepreneurs. So for example, the tax rate for them would be something like one-half of what it is for the big guys," said Wyden. "The money goes to try to address some of the harm that was caused by the failed War on Drugs, and particularly give our small businesses a real shot at creating good-paying jobs."

The draft bill will face a serious challenge in the Senate and it doesn't yet have the backing of the White House. The proposed legislation goes beyond decriminalization, which President Biden said he supported on the campaign trail.

Story continues

When asked about the proposal on Wednesday, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters "nothing has changed" about Biden's position.

"So often on these kinds of issues, political change is sort of grassroots up. It's not coming from necessarily the top," said Wyden. "I think there are a lot of powerful arguments to make this a bipartisan issue as we go. I mean, the fact is blue states and red states have legalized. The fact is that we have a powerful state rights argument."

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The legislation would end federal prohibition and let states make their own decisions on cannabis.

Wyden said the bill would likely come before the Senate Finance Committee, which will have hearings on the topic. The senators are asking for input on the plan before September 1.

"This is going to promote the opportunity for safer and fairer conduct with respect to cannabis in every part of the country with sensible oversight, sensible health policy, sensible tax policies," said Wyden.

Jessica Smith is chief political correspondent for Yahoo Finance, based in Washington, D.C.

Read more:
Reuters

MANILA (Reuters) -Philippine senator and boxing star Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao was voted out as leader of the country's ruling party on Saturday, weeks after challenging President Rodrigo Duterte over his position on China and record on fighting corruption. Pacquiao, 42, who is seen as a possible contender to succeed Duterte in next year's presidential election, had long been among the president's strongest supporters, backing his bloody war on drugs and bid to reintroduce the death penalty. But ties between them soured last month after Pacquiao railed at what he called Duterte's soft stance on Beijing's aggressiveness in the South China Sea, and said he was probing graft in the government.
(Bloomberg) -- South Africas death toll from days of riots rose to 117 even as the worst of the violence appeared to ease, with the deployment of thousands of soldiers starting to take effect.

Authorities have arrested almost 1,500 people, including one of 12 who allegedly helped instigate the unrest, resulting in rampant looting and the destruction of businesses in two key provinces, acting Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni told reporters in Pretoria, the capital, on Thursday.

The situation remains volatile in KwaZulu-Natal, the heart of the violence, while the economic hub of Gauteng should stabilize by Friday, she said. About 10,000 troops are now on the streets, leading to a drop in the number of incidents.

These are not demonstrations, this is economic sabotage, Ntshavheni said.

Protests erupted on July 10 after former President Jacob Zuma was imprisoned for defying a court order, before spiraling out of control as marauding mobs began to loot stores and all manner of institutions from banks to medical facilities. The rising death count represents the most lethal uprising since the buildup to the end of apartheid in 1994, when violent demonstrations and subsequent crackdowns were relatively commonplace.

Telecommunications towers and other infrastructure have been destroyed, while transport networks and a program to vaccinate people against the coronavirus have been disrupted.

Business Leadership South Africa, one of the main business lobby groups, estimates that damages amount to more than 5 billion rand ($343 million) and counting for the retail industry alone. More than 200 malls were targeted, over 800 stores were looted and 100 were completely burnt, its Chief Executive Officer Busi Mavuso said in an emailed reply to questions.

Insurance Headache

Attention is now turning to whether insurance companies will be able to cover the cost of the carnage, with claims estimated to run into several billions of rand. Much of that will have to be considered by Sasria, a South African state-owned company that provides cover for social unrest and rioting.

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The sheer number of affected businesses means its likely that processing claims will be slow and an interim fund may have to be set up for support, said Martin Kingston, representing Business Unity South Africa, another industry group.

BUSA is calling for a rolling 24-hour curfew in the key provinces and a full deployment of the armed forces to bring an end to the crisis.

Transnet SOC Ltd., the state-owned ports, freight rail and pipelines operator, said Friday its port and terminal operations at Durban and Richards Bay on the KwaZulu-Natal coast are slowly starting to normalize. Richards Bay has cleared all shipping backlogs and the Transnet pipeline network is functioning, it said in a statement.

Infrastructure Lost

It will take two-to-three years to recover the infrastructure lost here, Colin Coleman, former chairman of Goldman Sachs Group Inc. in Sub-Saharan Africa said in an interview with Bloomberg TV. To restock these centers will take 10 weeks and we are going to have severe shortages for some time.

Some business groups have urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to give the police and army additional powers to end the violence, fearing that communities and private militias will mete out their own form of justice. Video footage published on Johannesburg-based radio station Kaya 959s website showed private security guards firing live ammunition at a mob on Tuesday.

I really would like to see our president talking to people and giving a level of affirmation and confidence, Fani Titi, chief executive officer of South African-born specialist banking group Investec Plc, said in a call on Thursday. At this point in time we need much firmer communication. There is an issue around food security and anxiety around fuel supply.

The rand was 0.1% stronger at 14.57 to the dollar as 8:13 a.m. in Johannesburg Friday, still set for a decline of 2.4% this week.

(Updates rand trading and adds Transnet comments. An earlier version of this story corrected the reference to the arrest of alleged instigators.)

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The death toll in South Africa's unrest rose to 117 on Thursday, as the country called up its army reserves in a bid to quell looting that has stoked fears of shortages and dealt a crippling economic blow.

The acting minister in the presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, told reporters that Johannesburg, South Africa's economic capital, was now "relatively calm" while the southeastern province of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) -- the epicentre of the violence -- "remains volatile."

Defence, security and police ministers and top army generals were dispatched to KZN to assess the situation and oversee the expanded deployment of security forces.

On Wednesday, the government said it would call out around 25,000 troops to tackle the emergency -- 10 times the number that it initially deployed and equivalent to about a third of the country's active military personnel.

Army chief Lieutenant-General Lawrence Mbatha ordered all reserve members to report for duty on Thursday, as the unrest entered its sixth day.

Minister Ntshavheni said "by this morning, 10,000 boots were already on the ground".

Stores and warehouses in Johannesburg and KZN have been ransacked, devastating crucial supply chains for food, fuel and medicines in Africa's most industrialised economy.

Thousands of business are estimated to have been plundered in what the minister described as "economic sabotage" masterminded by 12 suspects.

"Of the 12 alleged instigators, one is in custody and... the (police) tracking team has increased the surveillance of the remaining 11," she said.

In all 2,203 people have been arrested during the unrest for various offences including theft.

Looting continued on Thursday in KZN, but the situation was quieter in Johannesburg, where volunteers in the city's townships took part in cleanup operations.

Residents lined up for their turn to buy food and other essentials at a mall in Alexandra township in northern Johannesburg that had been spared looting, as 20 soldiers patrolled the floors.

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Volunteers took part in a cleanup operation at the Jabulani shopping centre in Soweto.

Community leader Musa Mbele-Radebe, 30, told AFP: "The use of the army is quite good, because our people are quite scared of the army compared to the police.

"It only took four soldiers to control a situation of a thousand (people) that was gathering in this mall."

- Zuma protest -

The unrest began a day after former president Jacob Zuma -- who commands support from some of the country's poor -- began a 15-month jail term on July 8 for refusing to testify to a commission probing corruption under his tenure.

Protests quickly turned into looting as crowds pillaged shopping malls, hauling away goods as police stood by, seemingly powerless to act.

As the crisis escalated, the armed forces on Monday said they were sending 2,500 troops to help restore order.

The figure was criticised by many as paltry, given that 70,000 soldiers were deployed last year to enforce a strict coronavirus lockdown.

On Wednesday, Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula told parliament she had requested "plus or minus" 25,000 troops.

The request came after President Cyril Ramaphosa warned that parts of the country "may soon be running short of basic provisions" following disruption to supply chains.

TV footage of the casual looting has deeply shocked many South Africans. Business confidence has been savaged at a time when the economy is already mired in unemployment, especially among young people.

Michael Sun, a safety official for the opposition Democratic Alliance, said he went on a tour of Johannesburg and saw a car dealer whose 50 vehicles were just burnt-out shells.

"The devastation is really bad," he said. "Lots of the people are salvaging what they can get. Lots of the smaller businesses don't have insurance -- they are struggling."

Locals have started forming vigilante groups to protect property and infrastructure in their neighbourhoods.

Tensions are high in Durban's Phoenix township between black South Africans and counterparts of Indian heritage where police Minister Bheki Cele said 15 people had died. The hashtag #PhoenixMassacre trended on Thursday.

Intelligence firm Pangea Risk said in a note that "in the immediate outlook, the deployment of additional... soldiers to (Johannesburg and environs) will further contain outbreaks of unrest," but "the security situation in KwaZulu-Natal is unlikely to be contained in coming days".

bur-sn/tgb
More than 1,700 people have been arrested since disorder broke out

The South African government plans to deploy 25,000 troops after days of widespread looting and violence.

The military deployment - to counter riots sparked by the jailing of former President Jacob Zuma - would be the biggest since the end of apartheid.

At least 117 people have died and more than 2,000 have been arrested in South Africa's worst unrest in years.

Hundreds of shops and businesses have been looted and the government says it is acting to prevent food shortages.

Citizens are arming themselves and forming vigilante groups to protect their property from the rampage.

More than 200 incidents of looting and vandalism were recorded on Wednesday, the government said, as the number of troops deployed doubled to 5,000.

But Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula said she had submitted a request for the deployment of 25,000 soldiers to the two provinces hit by violence - KwaZulu-Natal, where Durban is located, and Gauteng, which includes Johannesburg.

The government has been under pressure to put more boots on the ground to tackle the unrest.

Shopping malls and warehouses have been ransacked or set ablaze in several cities, especially Durban.

Dr Dulcy Rakumakoe, who runs a chain of medical centres in Gauteng province that have been looted, told the BBC more action was needed.

"We've started with the clean-up but we can't even think about the rebuild because we are not sure when the unrest will be totally done," she said. "It's still not safe to even go in and rebuild."

The unrest subsided on Thursday although KwaZulu-Natal remains volatile. During clean-up operations, an additional 45 bodies were found.

Protests began last week after Zuma handed himself in to police to serve a 15-month sentence for contempt of court.

Zuma's supporters reacted furiously to his imprisonment, blockading major roads and calling for a shutdown to demand his release.

The protests descended into riots on a scale rarely seen in South Africa, with businesses in every sector looted, burnt and petrol-bombed in cities and towns across KwaZulu-Natal.

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Army reservists were called to report to their units on Thursday.

The request came after President Cyril Ramaphosa warned that parts of the country "may soon be running short of basic provisions" following disruption to supply chains.

The wreckage to businesses comes as South Africa's economy struggles with unemployment and Covid-19 restrictions.

Wielding sticks and guns, a group of minibus drivers violently beat up suspected looters in a township near Johannesburg on Wednesday.

Durban resident Lauren Alexander says the situation in the city is like a "war zone".

"It is frightening because we don't actually know what's happening next," the 26-year-old told BBC Radio 1 Newsbeat.

"Our road's all blocked off, a lot of our food shops are closed, which frightens us a lot because we've got to ration our food now."

Troops 'too little too late' for looting victims

By Nomsa Maseko, BBC News, Durban

Private residents armed with shotguns, pistols, garden spades and machetes have become the only defence against mobs who continue to raid areas that still have supermarkets, factories and warehouses left untouched following six days of riots in Durban.

In some areas, supermarkets that haven't been raided are fast running out of basic supplies. Snaking queues are forming as people buy anything they can get their hands on.

We passed one shop that was shut up because it had sold out of food - though the residents guarding the area said they were hopeful of more supplies soon.

The deployment of 25,000 troops by the government has been described as "too little too late" by people who have lost their livelihoods and businesses.

They say they've been let down by the government's reactive stance since violent protests began.

Click here to see the BBC interactive
Police officers look at the remains of looted shops during protests in downtown Durban, South Africa, 12 July 2021

Leading a comfortable life in South Africa's coastal city of Durban, John - not his real name - risks running out of food for the first time ever following the mass looting and burning of supermarkets and shops after protests over the imprisonment of former President Jacob Zuma spiralled out of control.

"Middle-class people like me now face shortages. On Tuesday, I could not get bread and milk until I became aware, through our neighbourhood WhatsApp group, of a community organisation giving it out.

"I went to their hall. We had to queue, and each person was given two loaves of bread and one litre of milk. I don't know where they got the stocks from but they gave out 8,000 loaves. Today [Wednesday], they don't have any," he added.

More than 200 shopping malls have been looted in South Africa, business leaders say

Durban, the main city in KwaZulu-Natal, is the political heartland of Zuma.

He began a 15-month prison sentence last Thursday for contempt of court after he disobeyed an order from judges to appear before an official inquiry investigating corruption allegations against him from his nine-year tenure as president.

Zuma's supporters reacted furiously to his imprisonment, blockading major roads and calling for a shutdown to demand his release.

The protests have since descended into riots on a scale rarely seen in South Africa, with businesses in every sector looted, burnt and petrol-bombed in cities and towns across KwaZulu-Natal.

Fears of fuel shortages

Similar unrest has swept through the economic hub of Gauteng, but KwaZulu-Natal remains the main flashpoint, with the riots reaching, or coming close to, some affluent neighbourhoods, terrifying shop owners and residents like John.

He said that only two or three shops in his suburb remained open. And this was for only a few hours a day.

Warehouses, factories and shops have been torched

"We are stocking up on dry food, and things like potatoes and onions. The shop owner said farms are inaccessible, and there will be no vegetables once his stocks run out," John added.

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His other worry is medication for his chronically ill wife.

"Some of the big pharmaceutical chains have been looted or are closed. I went to a small pharmacy that is still open. I queued for three hours to get medication. Baby food and nappies are in huge demand," John said.

There are also fears of fuel shortages - something most South Africans have never experienced in their lives.

"At my petrol station, only one pump is open. There are long queues. I have half a tank of petrol left," John added.

Police say they were overstretched, making it difficult for them to stop looting

He does not need much fuel at the moment though, as it is not safe to travel outside his suburb.

Furthermore, some adjacent suburbs have been blocked off by residents who have formed neighbourhood watch groups, or what local media call "defence squads", to prevent invasions.

"They don't allow any non-resident in, not even during the day, so even if I want to, I can't take a drive there to look for groceries," John said.

In his suburb, the neighbourhood patrol operates only at night. He has joined it, along with about 25 other men.

"Some have guns, but most of us just carry sticks, pipes and torches. I never thought I'll ever do this, but we have no choice. There are no police; no soldiers," he said.

"We block all intersections with our cars. Some of us will stand there; others will do foot patrols.

"If we get suspicious of someone we'll tell them to leave, and we've had a few instances of unregistered cars. We suspect they had come to survey our area to plan an attack," John said.

Raising money to help victims

In some other Durban neighbourhoods there have been violent confrontations, with large numbers of looters managing to raid shops and some homes before armed residents opened fire, forcing them to retreat. Some were shot.

Local leaders from both communities stepped in to negotiate a "no looting; no shooting" agreement, hoping that this will prevent a further escalation of conflict and help restore stability in a country shaken by the unrest.

Jailed former President Jacob Zuma portrayed himself as a champion of the poor

On Monday, President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered the deployment of soldiers to help police contain the riots, but for many it is too late.

Business owners - some with no insurance - have been left with no income after their shops were ransacked or went up in flames.

Communities in other parts of South Africa have now come together, trying to raise funds to help them rebuild their lives.

But it will be no easy task in a country where the economy - already reeling from the coronavirus pandemic - is in deep crisis.

It has led to fears of further job losses in a nation where more than 32% of the workforce is unemployed - a key factor in the scale of the looting the country has witnessed over the past few days.
The shooting that left an innocent woman dead in her Sisson Avenue apartment last month began as a revenge plot over someone elses stolen dirt bike, new court records show.

Sylvia Pebbles Cordova, 56, was killed when rounds from a variant of an AK-47 assault rifle tore through her first-floor Parkville apartment while she was cooking dinner and struck her in the head, according to an arrest warrant affidavit released Wednesday afternoon.

They were going to kill for a bike? Like, what are your morals? You have no sympathy, Jennifer Hernandez-Cordova, one of Cordovas daughters, said. [They were like] No let me stand in front of here, lets drive out, and Im going to shoot into the house. The first floor. What? Not caring if there was anyone? What if there was children in there? What if we were there? What if my daughter was there? My daughter lived with her, are you kidding me? I wouldve been burying my mother and my daughter.

Omar Reyes, 21, was arrested late last month in Puerto Rico and charged with Cordovas murder. He was extradited to Hartford this week and arraigned Wednesday on charges of murder, conspiracy to commit murder and possession of an assault weapon and high-capacity magazine.

Reyes was ordered held on $1 million bond but a second suspect in the murder, 24-year-old Edwin Roman, remains at large.

The events that precipitated the late afternoon shooting on June 9 began earlier in the day when a fight erupted at a house a few blocks away on Heath Street, a witness to the shooting told investigators, the warrant affidavit shows.

The witness  who is not named publicly for fear of reprisal, according to the affidavit  was at his cousins Heath Street home when two men robbed him of his Yamaha dirt bike at gunpoint, he told police.

He hitched a ride to meet his friend, Reyes, at his Martin Street home where Reyes and Reyes friend, whom the witness did not know, grabbed a pistol and a long rifle, the witness told police. Reyes and Reyes friend hopped on a silver scooter and the witness on another dirt bike and all three set off to confront the two robbers on Sisson Avenue.

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Police surveillance cameras connected to the Capital City Command Center captured Reyes and the other man arriving on a scooter near the Sisson Avenue scene just before the shooting occurred with what appeared to be a long gun wrapped in a sweatshirt on the other mans lap, detectives wrote in the affidavit.

Off camera Reyes and Reyes friend went behind the home at 28 Sisson Avenue to confront the robbers and the witness heard an argument begin before two gunshots rang out from Reyes scooter, according to the affidavit.

As all three rode out of the driveway and away from the house, the witness said he heard more gunshots as Reyes and Reyes friend fired into the house, according to this account to police.

Cordova was inside her first-floor apartment of the multi-family home cooking dinner at the time the shots rang out.

Her family said that the autopsy report showed three gunshot wounds, including one to her body, another that grazed her face and a fatal wound to the head.

The first officers on the scene after the shooting noticed the bullet damage to the home and, after receiving no answer at Cordovas apartment, kicked down her door and found her inside already dead, records show.

Detectives used the network of police surveillance cameras to track the scooter and dirt bike back to Reyes Martin Street home, where they set up surveillance that night, according to the affidavit. They ultimately spotted the witness and Reyes mother talking outside and confronted both.

Another person was standing in an open shed behind the home, where officers saw the silver scooter with the same license plate from the surveillance video at the shooting and found a black handgun on top of an ATV, records show. Officers peering through another cars windows on the property also spotted the rifle and a high-capacity magazine in the backseat.

Officers seized the vehicles and weapons and interviewed both Reyes mother and the witness, who both positively identified Reyes as one of the men on the scooter, according to the affidavit.

Hartford police developed warrants to charge Reyes and Roman, of Garden Street, with murder but could not immediately locate either.

Reyes was arrested three weeks later by U.S. Marshals and Puerto Rican police on the island until he was extradited to Connecticut late Tuesday.

Roman faces the same charges but remains at large and police have asked anyone with information about his whereabouts to call the departments tip line at 860-722-8477.

I do believe theyre going to find him eventually, Hernandez-Cordova said. It sucks we got to keep waiting because now we got to deal with the trial, the court proceedings with Omar, then with Edwin when he gets caught.

Its unclear what charges the witness will face, but Cordovas family says they wont stop pursuing justice for their mothers death until everyone involved is held responsible.

They both acted, and the third guy (the witness) too, Geovanny Hernandez, another child of Cordovas, said. If he had never went to the North end and got these people, this would have never went down like this. ... Im definitely not going to stop fighting.

Zach Murdock can be reached at zmurdock@courant.com. Jessika Harkay can be reached at jharkay@courant.com.
A Pembroke Pines officer at Charles W. Flanagan High School was physically attacked by a student he was escorting to the principals office, police said.

Additional officers were called to the school at around 7:30 a.m. Thursday to help get the 17-year-old boy under control, according to a Pembroke Pines police spokesperson. The school is located at 12800 Taft Street in Pembroke Pines.

Police said the student was being disruptive at school prior to the fight.

Both the officer and the teen were reported to be in good condition after the scuffle.

Police said Thursday that the juvenile committed battery and will be charged.

A spokesperson for Broward County Public Schools said it would continue to work with law enforcement regarding this matter. School leadership is also in communication with the students parents.
The New York City Police Department is hunting for a suspect seen on surveillance video dumping a bottle of soda on an elderly man before beating him and sending him to a hospital.

Footage showed the 83-year-old man speaking with the unidentified perpetrator as he attempted to exit a Bronx city bus on May 31. Moments later, the suspect, who did not move out of the elderly man's way, is seen pouring bright green soda on the victim's head before striking him at least once in the face.

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Law enforcement later said the victim was struck multiple times and hospitalized for over a week with several face fractures, a spokesperson for the NYPD told the Washington Examiner in an email.

NYPD HUNTING FOR SUSPECT SEEN ON VIDEO HURLING CINDER BLOCK AT MAN'S HEAD

The suspect has been described as a black male, who is roughly 5-feet 11-inches tall, between ages 30 and 40.

Also this week, the NYPD has enlisted the help of the public to identify three other individuals, one of whom was seen on video launching a cinder block at an unsuspecting male on a sidewalk last Wednesday. The trio of suspects was seen pummeling the first victim and another man before they fled the scene with $450 in cash.

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New York City's five boroughs experienced a more than 32% increase in grand larceny, a 31% uptick in auto theft, and a 16% increase in robbery for the month of June, compared to numbers from the same time frame in 2020. Murders and burglaries were down, though police made 361 gun-related arrests, equating to a roughly 100% jump from last year.

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Tags: News, New York City, New York, NYPD, Crime, Police, Law Enforcement, Video

Original Author: Jake Dima

Original Location: Suspect dumps soda on elderly man and hospitalizes him after beating on NYC bus: Video
For Durhams Sarai Faison, a working mother of two, the monthly checks that began Thursday from an expanded child tax credit bring a sense of relief.

During the coronavirus pandemic, Faison and her husband became a one-income household for a time as they juggled virtual schooling for their 9-year-old daughter and caring for their 3-year-old son at home. Now as they transition back to working full-time outside of the house, their expenses, particularly day care, are rising.

What these payments will allow us to do is pay for child care expenses, and it takes away a layer of stress that is inherent in trying to return to the workforce and financially plan for a new setting, said Faison, who works in clinical development at a pharmaceutical company.

Sarai Faison, of Durham, spoke about what the expanded child tax credit would mean to her family during a press call organized by the North Carolina Democratic Party. Faison, a working mother of two, said the payments would take away a layer of stress as she returns to her job at a pharmaceutical company.

Millions of parents will receive their first monthly check from the expanded child tax credit Thursday, even as the Biden administration seeks ways to deliver the money to eligible parents who are not signed up.

In North Carolina, 1.1 million families, which includes 1.8 million children, will receive a check in July, according to the White House. Overall, families in the state will receive $476 million in July.

The American Rescue Plan, passed by Democrats in March, expanded the annual child tax credit from $2,000 per year to $3,600 for children under 6 and $3,000 for children 6 to 17. And, instead of being able to claim the full amount when filing income taxes as late as April, it called for prepayment of half the total through monthly checks from July to December.

A married couple with children ages 7 and 9 making less than $150,000 would receive $500 monthly ($250 per child) through December and then be able to claim the remaining $3,000 credit on their tax returns.

The full credit is available to any parents making less than $150,000 (couple) or $112,500 (individual), including those who previously did not make enough money to qualify for the full credit. The tax credit phases out at $400,000 (couple) and $200,000 (individual).

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Several policy centers have estimated that the program could cut child poverty nationally in half. In North Carolina, the payments could lift 137,000 children out of poverty including six in 10 Native American children, half of all Black children and nearly half of all Latino children, according to figures provided by Rep. Deborah Ross, a Wake County Democrat.

In her district, Ross said, the parents of 184,000 children will receive the credit.

This child tax credit recognizes how hard parents are working to raise the next generation, Ross said. This tax credit helps pay for child care. It helps pay for school supplies. It helps when the car breaks down and it recognizes how hard our families are working and how many of these families are living paycheck to paycheck.

Faison said her friends and others she knows through her time as a volunteer at her daughters school will use the money to catch up on rent, get back-to-school clothes or just financially catch up after lost income during the coronavirus pandemic.

The beauty of it is every family has different needs at different times, she said.

Michelle Hughes, the executive director of NC Child, said many families in the state have reported financial troubles.

What we know is one-third of all adults in North Carolina are reporting theyre struggling to pay for food, rent, health care, transportation. This money is going to be a huge boost to those families to support their kids, she said. This money comes at a time when many families are desperate and can use this financial support.

Anyone eligible who filed taxes in the last two years will automatically receive the monthly payment. Another 470,000 people with 720,000 children were added when they signed up through the non-filer portal for stimulus checks in 2020 or 2021, administration officials said. About 1 million parents have opted out of the monthly money and will instead claim the entire credit when they file their taxes

The IRS estimated that about 39 million families with 60 million children are eligible. The Treasury Department said roughly $15 billion was being sent to families Thursday, a figure that could rise each month as more eligible parents get signed up.

People who did not file taxes and have not signed up through the stimulus portal can register at IRS.gov. As many as 5 million families nationally could be missing out, Hughes said.

One of the biggest challenges is making sure parents know this support is available to them. NC Child and other agencies are working to get this information into the hands of parents, especially low-income parents who often have not made enough money to file taxes and are going to miss out on this opportunity, Hughes said.

The expanded child tax credit is only in place for one year, but Democrats are pushing to extend the additional credit. The Biden administration wants to extend the credit for years and years, making it part of the nations overall economic security compact. A budget proposed by Senate Democrats includes an extension of the expanded child tax credit.

Ross, like most Democrats, supports making it permanent. She and other Democrats are hosting events and working with community organizations to make sure parents know the credit exists and, if they are not getting it, to register for it.

Hughes said there will be measurable impacts from the additional money, though it may take a few months.

I am hoping what well see is a decrease in hunger and food insecurity. Well see children showing up to school ready to learn, in stable housing and being fed. We do think we will see some measurable change in childrens health and well-being as a result of the child tax credit, Hughes said. One thing we all need to remember is that growing up in an economically insecure family, growing up in poverty, growing up in a low-income family, its a huge stressor for those families and those kids and it has an impact on those children and their development.

For more North Carolina government and politics news, listen to the Under the Dome politics podcast from The News & Observer and the NC Insider. You can find it at link.chtbl.com/underthedomenc or wherever you get your podcasts.

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On The News & Observer's Under the Dome podcast, were unpacking legislation and issues that matter, keeping you updated on whats happening in North Carolina politics twice a week on Monday and Friday mornings. Check us out here and sign up for our weekly Under the Dome newsletter for more political news.
An Afghan official said Thursday a ceasefire had been negotiated with local Taliban leaders in a western province that had come under assault by the militants in their sweeping campaign across the countryside.

Badghis governor Hesamuddin Shams said no time frame had been set for a truce, which comes after the Taliban last week stormed the provincial capital Qala-i-Naw -- their first major attack on a city since US-led foreign forces began their final withdrawal from the country in early May.

"The ceasefire between Afghan security forces and the Taliban began at around 10:00 am today. The ceasefire was brokered by tribal elders," Shams told AFP.

After taking hold of the rest of the province, Taliban militants swooped on Qala-i-Naw, where Afghan forces and Taliban fighters engaged in street battles.

Afghan forces, which have been facing a crisis in the country, later said they had flushed the militants out of the city.

The Taliban have captured scores of districts across the rugged countryside, as well as key border crossings with neighbouring countries, choking off revenues much needed by Kabul while also filling their own coffers.

On Wednesday, they captured the border crossing of Spin Boldak along the frontier with Pakistan, raising their flag above the town.

- Border crossing closed -

Pakistan's foreign ministry confirmed on Thursday that the Afghan side of the border crossing was in the militants' hands.

Border officials on the Pakistan side in Chaman swiftly shut the crossing, causing chaos for traders and families queuing up to cross.

"An unruly mob of about 400 people tried to cross the gate forcefully. They threw stones, which forced us to use tear gas," said a security official on the Pakistan side, who asked not to be named, adding that the situation was later brought "under control".

He said around 1,500 people had gathered at the border Wednesday waiting to cross.

An Afghan Taliban source told AFP that hundreds of people had also gathered on the Afghan side, hoping to travel in the other direction.

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"We are talking to Pakistani authorities. A formal meeting to open the border is scheduled for today, and hopefully, it will open in a day or two," he said.

Later on Thursday, a Pakistani border official told AFP that the border would open Friday for pedestrians from both sides.

The crossing provides direct access to Pakistan's Balochistan province, where the Taliban's top leadership has been based for decades, along with an unknown number of reserve fighters who regularly enter Afghanistan to help bolster their ranks.

- 'The situation will turn bad' -

A major highway leading from the border connects to Pakistan's commercial capital Karachi and its sprawling port on the Arabian Sea, which is considered a linchpin for Afghanistan's billion-dollar heroin trade that has provided a crucial source of revenue for the Taliban's war chest over the years.

Islamabad on Thursday announced it had invited a number of "Afghan leaders" to a peace conference over the weekend, but an aide to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani told local media his government had asked for it to be postponed, with politicians already heading to Qatar.

Soon after capturing Spin Boldak border town, scores of Taliban fighters rampaged through the town, looting homes and seizing vehicles of government officials who had fled, according to local residents.

"The bazaar is closed and traders are scared that the situation will turn bad," Mohammad Rasoul, a trader in Spin Boldak, told AFP by phone.

"They fear that their products will be looted. There are scores of opportunists waiting to loot."

Nader Nadery, the spokesman for the government's negotiating team in Doha where peace talks with the Taliban have been stalled for months, said the Taliban have offered a three-month ceasefire in return for thousands of prisoners being released.

However, he later said that no formal proposal had been made.

Peace talks launched in Qatar last year have so far failed to reach any political settlement, and the latest offensives suggest the insurgents are now set on a military victory.

bur-jds/ecl/to
Afghan government negotiator Nader Nadery announced on Thursday that the Taliban offered the Afghan government a ceasefire in exchange for the release of thousands of captured Taliban fighters.

The proposition comes in the wake of major Taliban gains over the course of this year, following the gradual withdrawal of U.S. troops from the country. In addition to the release of 7,000 prisoners, the Taliban also demand the removal of the names of several Taliban leaders from a United Nations blacklist, Nadery said, according to the BBC.

So far, the government has not said whether it will accept the ceasefire offer, a proposal Nadery described as a "big demand."

The Foundation for the Defense of Democracy's Long War Journal shows that the Taliban nearly tripled their area of control since mid-April, now controlling the majority of Afghan districts. The Taliban say they control 85% of Afghanistan's 409 districts, a claim the Afghan government disputes.

US PLANS TO EVACUATE AFGHANS WHO HELPED DEPARTING TROOPS

An infographic map depicting the different areas of control of Afghanistan in April 2021. (Screen shot with permission from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracy's Long War Journal)

An infographic map depicting areas of control on July 13, 2021. (Screen shot with permission from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracy's Long War Journal)

In a speech delivered on July 8, President Joe Biden promised that all U.S. troops will leave Afghanistan by Aug. 31, meaning that a three-month ceasefire could see a cessation of hostilities until after the pullout is complete.

A similar deal was struck last year, in which 5,000 Taliban prisoners of war were released. According to BBC correspondent Lyse Doucet, it is believed that this deal ultimately worsened violence in the country, as many of the released fighters returned to the battlefield.

Many analysts fear a total collapse of the Afghan government following a total U.S. withdrawal. Economist and analyst Cornelia Meyer, writing for Arab News, warned of the danger of another "Great Game" taking place in the shattered country as different regional powers compete for resources and influence.

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Despite these worries, Biden has shot down any suggestions of U.S. troops staying.

"How many more  how many more thousands of American daughters and sons are you willing to risk? I will not send another generation of Americans to war in Afghanistan with no reasonable expectation of achieving a different outcome," he said to those suggesting extending the U.S. presence in the country in his July 8 speech.

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Tags: Afghanistan, War in Afghanistan, Taliban, prisoners, National Security, Joe Biden

Original Author: Brady Knox

Original Location: Taliban offer three-month ceasefire in exchange for release of 7,000 prisoners
Taliban fighters in 2020. Noorullah Shirzada/AFP via Getty Images

Taliban members successfully took control of a major border crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan on Wednesday.

The border crossing that links Wesh, Afghanistan, with Chaman, Pakistan, is the second busiest entry point in Afghanistan and links the country to Pakistan's sea ports, with 900 trucks using the crossing every day. Afghan officials said government forces have pushed the Taliban back in Wesh, but civilians and Pakistani officials say the Taliban is in full control and has suspended travel across the border, Reuters reports.

The United States plans on finishing its withdrawal from Afghanistan by August 31, and over the last several months, the Taliban has been sweeping across the country, seizing key border crossings in order to collect the revenue. In recent days, the militant group has taken control of crossings in the Herat, Farah, and Kunduz provinces.

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The Tampa Police Department say they arrested a man responsible for a July 5 murder in Ybor City on Wednesday afternoon, according to a news release.

Marquis Lezate Walter, 28, from North Tampa, faces a charge of premeditated murder in the first degree, police said.

Walter got into an argument with another man on July 5, police said. Later in the night, he returned to shoot the same man while he was walking to his car near the intersection of Third Avenue and 17th Street, police said. Walter fired several shots, the release said.

Surveillance video was used to identify Walter, according to Tampa police. Walter was arrested by the U.S. Marshalls Task Force and transported to the Orient Road Jail.
BACK THE BLUE signs line a road in Moosic prior to a visit by President Donald Trump visit to Mariotti Building Products, Thursday, Aug. 20, 2020, in nearby Old Forge, Pa. Jacqueline Larma/AP

A college student was charged with a hate crime after she destroyed a "Back the Blue" sign in front of a Utah police officer.

Lauren Gibson, 19, was arrested and charged after an officer accused her of "smirking in an intimidating manner" at him.

The misdemeanor, which violates Utah's 2019 hate-crime law, carries a sentence of up to one year in prison.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

A 19-year-old woman was charged with a hate crime after she destroyed a "Back the Blue" sign in front of a police officer.

On July 7, Lauren Gibson, a college student from California, was driving with her friends in Panguitch, Utah, when one of the cars was pulled over for speeding by a deputy officer with the Garfield County Sheriff's Office.

Gibson told The Daily Beast that she was upset by her friend getting pulled over and picked up a "Back the Blue" sign that she said her friends previously found on the side of the road, waved it at the officer writing the ticket, stomped on it, and threw it in the trash.

"I just wanted to, I don't know, make her feel better or something or stand up for her," Gibson told The Daily Beast.

Gibson was arrested by the sheriff's deputy, who accused her of defacing the pro-police sign "in a destructive manner" and "all while smirking in an intimidating manner," Garfield County Sheriff's Deputy Cree Carter wrote in an affidavit.

She was charged with disorderly conduct as well as criminal mischief with a hate-crime enhancement after state prosecutors claimed the latter crime was committed with "the intent to intimidate or terrorize another person," which is in violation with Utah's 2019 hate-crime laws. The misdemeanor carries a sentence of up to one year in prison.

"Due to the demeanor displayed by Gibson in attempts to intimate law enforcement while destroying a 'Pro Law Enforcement' sign the allegations are being treated as a 'Hate Crime' enhanced allegation," Carter wrote in his affidavit.

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The American Civil Liberties Union in Utah condemned Gibson's arrest and subsequent hate crime charge, saying they were "extremely troubled and disappointed" by the decision of the Garfield County Attorney's office.

"This kind of charging decision sends an extremely chilling message to the community that the government will seek harsher punishment for people charged with crimes who disagree with police actions," the organization said in a statement. "This concern is even greater because we do not view the enhancement as supportable under the language of the statute."

In a statement released Wednesday, the Garfield County Sheriff's Office said a deputy performed the traffic stop after observing the three cars speeding but did not give them a ticket. The Sheriff's Office also said the officer did not issue a ticket after noticing "tobacco products in a vehicle and advised them that due to their age they could not possess those products in Utah."

According to the press release, a group then exited one of the vehicles after the traffic stop was completed and returned with a "Back the Blue" sign, which the deputy suspected was stolen from the gas station but later learned it was not, The Beast reported. The Sheriff's Office said Gibson then "showed extremely aggressive and violent behavior toward the officer in a very busy parking lot."

"The simple fact is, while this officer was doing his doing in a proactive and compassionate manner, he was singled out and attacked by this person because he was a law enforcement officer. We are greatly disturbed by the hatred shown to law enforcement officers for no apparent reason.

Gibson has not yet filed a plea in the case, though said she said she doesn't "feel like I did anything wrong," she told The Beast.

"If it was a dentist's sign or something and I just crushed a dentist sign or something in front of them, like, nothing would have happened," she said. "It's the same thing. It's just an occupation."

Read the original article on Insider
Jul. 14NEW ULM  A Mankato teen who was found guilty of sexual assault was sentenced to four years in prison.

A Brown County District Court jury found Malachi Henessey Rodriguez, 19, guilty of felony criminal sexual conduct following a trial in May. Rodriguez was accused of sexually assaulting a girl he knows in a New Ulm hotel room last August.

Rodriguez was sentenced Tuesday to four years in prison and 10 years probation. He'll be eligible for release after 32 months.
The push to bring fugitive Texas Democrats back to Austin could be reaching new heights.

House Speaker Dade Phelan said Thursday that he will charter a plane Saturday from Washington, D.C., to Austin to retrieve the Democrats who fled to the nations capital to avoid voting on an elections bill that they say would restrict voting rights.

I am demanding all of our colleagues in D.C. to contact my staff immediately in order to secure their seat on the plane and return to Austin in order to do the states business, Phelan, a Beaumont Republican, said in a statement. The State of Texas is waiting.

The decamped Democrats, however, said they wont be riding.

The Speaker should save his money. We wont be needing a plane anytime soon as our work to save democracy from Trump Republicans is just getting started, they said in a shared statement. Were not going anywhere and suggest instead the speaker end this charade of a session, which is nothing more than a monthlong campaign for Gov. Abbotts re-election. The speaker should adjourn the House Sine Die.

The plane will be on standby at Dulles International Airport, and Phelans team said his political campaign, not taxpayers, will pay for the flight. Phelan, however, cant force the Democrats to get on the plane.

Earlier this week, Republicans voted overwhelmingly to send law enforcement to track down and arrest the Democrats, but Texas law enforcement doesnt have jurisdiction outside of the state.

Phelans announcement is the latest in an extraordinary week in Texas politics, which saw more than 51 House Democrats flee the state on their own chartered planes and bring proceedings in the chamber to a halt. Democrats have said they are fighting to protect voting rights and have decamped to Washington to urge Congress to pass new voting rights legislation that would preempt states from passing restrictive legislation.

Republicans have said Democrats are walking off the job and neglecting their duty to debate the issues at the Capitol and pass legislation.
Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan on Wednesday called on state Democratic lawmakers to give up their daily stipend of $221 as they hunker down in Washington, D.C. to avoid passing a voting reform bill.

At least 51 of the states 67 House Democrats boarded a private plane for the nations capital Monday in an effort to prevent a quorum and deny Republicans the ability to pass a controversial voting bill.

Another nine Democratic Senators are believed to have joined the House members in D.C.

TEXAS SENATE PASSES REPUBLICAN-BACKED VOTING REFORM BILL

"While these Texas Democrats collect taxpayer money as they ride on private jets to meet with the Washington elite, those who remain in the chamber await their return to begin work on providing our retired teachers a 13th check, protecting our foster kids, and providing taxpayer relief," Phelan said in a statement Wednesday. "Those who are intentionally denying quorum should return their per diem to the State Treasury immediately upon receipt."

Texas Democrats flew to D.C. to meet with President Biden and encourage Congress to pass federal legislation barring increased voter regulations under the "For the People Act" and the "John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act."

While Texas House members have been unable to pass a voting reform bill under the special session called by Gov. Greg Abbott, Senate Republicans passed their version titled Senate Bill 1 Tuesday.

HERE'S WHAT IS ACTUALLY IN THE TEXAS ELECTION BILLS DEMOCRATS KEEP COMPARING TO JIM CROW

Despite a number of Democratic Senators leaving the special session for Washington, a quorum in the Senate was maintained with 22 of its 31 members present, allowing for the passage of the bill.

Some Democrats have rejected the notion that their trip to Washington means they are not working.

"Were doing our jobs," state Rep. Chris Turner told Fox News Tuesday. "We're working harder doing what were doing right now than we would be if we had stayed in the chamber to watch them run through a voter suppression bill on a party-line vote."

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But not all Texas Democrats in Washington said they would keep the per diem amount allotted to lawmakers under a special session.

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"Representative Beckley will not be accepting any per diem payments and will return any per diem that has been paid to her each day that she has not been in Austin since the quorum break," her spokesman said in a statement Wednesday, adding her office has been working since Monday to ensure the proper paperwork is filed and money returned to the state.

The special session called on July 8 by Abbott was set to last for 30 days, meaning Texas Democrats could be remaining in the nations capital for several weeks to come.

Hillary Vaughn contributed to this report.
Thousands of Cuban protesters, angered over food and medicine shortages, low COVID-19 vaccination rates and electricity outages took to the streets Sunday and Monday for the first time in nearly 30 years. The protests are a rare defiance of the Communist government's intolerance for dissent.

On Wednesday, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel for the first time acknowledged government shortcomings after previously blaming the unrest on social media and agitation from the U.S.

There was at least one death reported by officials in the unrest: Diubis Laurencio Tejeda, 36, died Monday according to Cuba's Interior Ministry.

Here's what we know so far about the demonstrations in Cuba:

What started the Cuba protests?

Young protesters marched on Havana, the island's capital, chanting "We want freedom" and "We want vaccines." Demonstrations have also taken place in Miami, which has a sizeable Cuban and Cuban-American population.

The protests were fueled in part by Cuba suffering its worst economic crisis in years, which has led to food shortages and high prices.

'We are fed up': Thousands of demonstrators throughout Cuba protest shortages, rising prices

A mixture of the coronavirus pandemic, sanctions from former President Donald Trump and problems in the state-run economy have helped to cripple the Caribbean island.

Some protesters called for political change after six decades of Communist Party rule, beginning with Fidel Castro's revolution in 1959.

The last time there was a major demonstration in Cuba over economic hardship took place nearly 30 years ago in 1994, according to the Associated Press.

How is Cuba reacting?

Police have arrested at least a dozen protesters and tear-gassed Cubans in response to the unrest. Cuban authorities blocked internet service during the weekend unrest to stem the flow of information outside the country.

Diaz-Canel warned protesters they would face a strong response on Sunday. "We are not going to hand over the sovereignty or the independence of the people," he said, reported the Miami Herald.

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On Wednesday, he called for protesters to stop the violence during a televised address, while also taking some government blame.

We have to gain experience from the disturbances, he said. We also have to carry out a critical analysis of our problems in order to act and overcome, and avoid their repetition.

Before Diaz-Canel spoke, Prime Minister Manuel Marrero announced actions to improve the stability of the nation's national electricity system and customs flexibility for Cuban citizens to bring back food and medical supplies when traveling to foreign countries.

What about the U.S. sanctions on Cuba?

While former President Barack Obama thawed the United States tense relationship with Cuba, Biden has not lifted sanctions imposed on Cuba by the Trump administration.

President Joe Biden had promised to reverse Trumps policies on Cuba during the 2020 presidential campaign.

"The Cuban regime under President (Miguel) Diaz-Canel will likely sharpen its response at some point, complicating any sort of opening to Cuba on which Biden campaigned," Ryan C. Berg, an expert on Latin American at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, told USA TODAY.

"At the very least, these protests  their size, scope, and their organic nature  will force the Biden administration to think more deeply about Cuba, which was a back burner issue for the administration."

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Monday that the United States is "assessing how we can be helpful directly to the people of Cuba."

However, Biden advisers have also said the administration was reviewing its Cuba policy and signaled that no changes were imminent.

Biden expressed support for the Cuban protesters.

The Cuban people are demanding their freedom from an authoritarian regime, Biden told reporters Monday. We call on the government of Cuba to refrain from violence in their attempt to silence the voices of the people of Cuba.

Related: As protests roil Cuba, Biden faces pressure to keep Trump policies despite campaign pledge

What are Cubans in the U.S. saying? What's patria y vida?

John Suarez, executive director at the Center for a Free Cuba, said the protests are a direct response to the Cuban government's policies.

What's causing the troubles in Cuba is the internal blockade that the regime has placed on Cubans, Suarez said. That's why the Cubans are protesting the regime. Theyre not out front of the U.S. Embassy protesting the U.S. embargo, they're protesting the government because they know who's responsible for what they're suffering. It's not an accident.

Jaime Suchlicki, director at the Cuban Studies Institute, said Cubans are appreciative of support they're getting from outside the island.

Cuban flags are raised and waved in downtown Fort Myers on Tuesday, July 13, 2021 as part of a march demanding freedom for the Cuban people that are still in Cuba. The event in Fort Myers was called the Walk for Cuba. About 1,000 people attended the event.

"They appreciate any support that comes from the outside that curtails the power of the Cuban government, that allows them to operate, that allows the freedom and more respect for human rights," Suchlicki said.

Cuban Americans feel strongly about what's happening. It's been 60 years of a dictatorship in the islands, so therefore they're expressing their points of view and trying to influence policy," Suchlicki added.

Cuban athletes in the U.S. who defected from the island are using their platforms to support protesters in their home country.

At the MLB All-Star Game New York Yankees pitcher Aroldis Chapman and Texas Rangers outfielder Adolis Garcia wore hats with the messages SOS CUBA and Patria y Vida, which means homeland and life, a play on the Cuban Communist Partys motto of homeland or death.

Related: 'Cuban people are demanding their freedom': Biden expresses support for protesters

Contributing: The Associated Press, Rebecca Morin, Elinor Aspegren, Deirdre Shesgreen

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Cuba protests: What started them and what's next for Communist nation
(Bloomberg) -- A consortium that includes CNIC Corp. and GIC Pte are nearing a deal with China Three Gorges Corp. for a 25% stake in its overseas asset portfolio that could be valued at as much as $2 billion, according to people familiar with the matter.

The group could reach a deal to buy the stake in China Three Gorges international unit as soon as this week, one of the people said, asking not to be identified as the matter is private.

The consortium also includes other funds in Greater China, the people said. Bloomberg News reported in March that Chinese state-backed fund CNIC and Singaporean sovereign wealth investor GIC were among those in talks for the asset.

The hydropower company plans to use the funds raised in the potential deal to fund development of the overseas portfolio, including acquisitions, the person said.

A $2 billion transaction would be the companys second biggest disposal, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. In 2016 it completed the sale of Three Gorges Jinshajiang Chuanyun Hydro Development Co. for 30 billion yuan ($4.6 billion) to China Yangtze Power Co., in which China Three Gorges has a majority stake.

Negotiations are ongoing and China Three Gorges could still decide not to sell the assets, the people said. A representative for GIC declined to comment. Representatives for China Three Gorges and CNIC did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

China Three Gorges has continued its decade-long run of acquiring overseas assets even after the U.S. Department of Defense added it to a list of firms said to have ties to the Chinese military, barring them from U.S. exchanges.

The company purchased Spanish solar park assets with more than 500 megawatts of capacity from X-Elio Energy SL in August. It announced in February that it had agreed to acquire a 400 megawatt renewable energy portfolio in Spain for 500 million euros ($592 million).

The state-owned power giants subsidiary China Three Gorges Renewables Group Co. raised 22.7 billion yuan ($3.5 billion) last month in an initial public offering in Shanghai, the countrys biggest this year.

Story continues

(Updates with detail of companys biggest disposal in fifth paragraph.)

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2021 Bloomberg L.P.
Former President Donald Trump is finding himself at odds with many in the GOP when it comes to the coronavirus vaccine.

While he has put out statements in recent days denouncing the media at large for not adequately praising him or his administrations efforts to develop a vaccine quickly, many of his followers in Congress are sending different messages about it.

The former commander in chief said in a tweemail on Sunday that his administration did a great job  with respect to the pandemic and said his predecessor left the cupboards bare. He claimed that without the vaccine, the entire World would have ended up like it was in 1917, the Spanish Flu, where as many as 100 million people died.

GO AWAY: BIDEN'S 'DOOR-TO-DOOR' HUNT FOR UNVACCINATED REJECTED

Trump, who has been vaccinated, also brought up the work that his administration did to develop the vaccine in tweemails sent on June 18 and June 28.

Despite Trump's push for praise, there appears to be a disconnect between his stance on the vaccine and some of his most ardent acolytes.

During the Conservative Political Action Conference in Texas last weekend, the crowd cheered when writer and speaker Alex Berenson said: The government was hoping that they could sort of sucker 90% of the population into getting vaccinated, and it isnt happening.

A day later, House GOP freshman Marjorie Taylor Greene tweeted that people should Just say NO! to the vaccine, citing people who reported very serious life changing vaccine side effects.

Late last month, Wisconsin GOP Sen. Ron Johnson, who has been known to promote contrarian viewpoints, hosted a press conference with people and families who said that the negative side effects of the vaccine outweighed its benefits.

In a statement, Johnson said the whole group was pro-vaccine, noting that in the vast majority of people, the vaccine has been administered with little or no side effects, although he alleged certain people are certainly downplaying what is happening when it comes to adverse side effects.

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Following the White House's failure to reach its Fourth of July vaccination goal of getting at least 70% of adults with one shot by the holiday, the administration came up with a proposal that included targeted door-to-door outreach, which also received blowback from those on the Right.

Colorado GOP Rep. Lauren Boebert rebuked the concept, calling those who would work on the campaign "needle Nazis," while Greene likened them to Nazi-era "medical brown shirts."

"President Trump, like me, thinks Americans are smart enough to make their own decisions," Boebert added. "The beauty of this country is the ability to decide for yourself what is best. The role of government is not to force, have million dollars lotteries or door-to-door pricks, pun intended."

Last week, Arizona Republican Andy Biggs criticized the government's push, saying, In 2021, the nine most terrifying words in the English language: I'm from the government, have you been vaccinated yet?

There are other Republicans, those of whom are not as tied to the "Make America Great Again" movement, encouraging people to get vaccinated.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell urged people to the vaccine during a press conference on Tuesday, saying, "We need to keep preaching that getting the vaccine is important," and he called the current lag to be perplexing, though he didn't directly answer questions about members of his own party who are pushing against vaccinations.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

When asked about the apparent divergence, a spokesperson for the Republican National Committee directed the Washington Examiner to two tweets from chairwoman Ronna McDaniel.

"As Trump and Republicans were leading Operation Warp Speed, Biden was spreading doubt about the vaccines efficacy. Biden should thank Trump for developing a vaccine in record time," one tweet read, while the other reads, "Is the DNC calling on companies to police and censor text messages?" The later was in response to an article about the Biden administration working with cell phone carriers to potentially flag misinformation in text messages.

A spokesperson for Trump did not immediately respond to the Washington Examiner's requests for comment.

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Original Author: Mike Brest

Original Location: Trump calls for more praise on vaccine development as acolytes dance around skepticism
ANKARA, Turkey (AP)  Turkey marked the fifth anniversary of a failed military coup with a series of events Thursday commemorating the people who died trying to quash the uprising against the government.

The observances kicked off with visits to grave sites and memorials honoring the dead, where prayers were held. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan led a ceremony in parliament before attending other events, including the opening a museum commemorating the crushing of the July 15, 2016 coup attempt.

On that night, factions within the military used tanks, warplanes and helicopters to try to overthrow Erdogans government. Heeding a call from the president, thousands took to the streets to oppose the takeover attempt.

A total of 251 people were killed and around 2,200 others were wounded as the coup-plotters fired at crowds and bombed parliament and other government buildings. Around 35 people who allegedly participated in the plot also were killed.

We will never be a be able to repay the brave men who, through their sacrifices that dark night, brought a (bright) morning for our nation and democracy, Erdogan said Thursday. Through its resistance on July 15, our people not only averted a coup attempt but also prevented an attempted occupation (of) our country.

Two brothers, Huseyin and Cengiz Hasbag, were among thousands of people who rushed to the streets after Erdogan called on the people to resist the attempt. Cengiz died in violence that took place on the Bosporus bridge, which links Istanbuls Asian and European shores and has since been renamed the July 15 Martyrs' Bridge.

I said, Cengiz, I will go out for Allah and the Prophet, and pursue my cause, Hasbag told The Associated Press, recalling the night five years ago. Cengiz said, Brother, I will come too.

On the bridge, the brothers began to help people wounded by soldiers taking part in the coup. Hasbag said he then heard a noise that sounded like an explosion.

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I looked at my brother Cengiz. He was martyred by a bullet that entered his right shoulder and chest, he said.

Turkey has blamed U.S.-based Muslim cleric Fethullah Gulen, a former Erdogan ally, for the attempted coup. Gulen rejects the accusation. The Turkish government designated his network a terrorist group.

Government officials insist that Gulens network remains a threat to Turkey. In a speech in parliament on Wednesday, Erdogan said his government was determined to go after the network until the last member is neutralized.

The government declared a state of emergency after the failed coup and launched a massive crackdown on Gulens network. Tens of thousands of people were arrested for alleged links to the coup and to Gulen. Some 4,900 people were sentenced to prison, including around 3,000 who were given life sentences, the state-run Anadolu Agency reported.

More than 130,000 people were fired from public service jobs through emergency decrees, among them teachers and police officers. Defense Minister Hulusi Akar said this week that 23,364 military personnel were fired from the armed forces for their alleged ties to the network.

Critics say the arrests and dismissals went too far and Turkey's broad terror laws were used to target all government opposition.

More than 100 people with purported links to Gulen were detained abroad or extradited to Turkey to stand trial, including a nephew of the cleric who was reportedly captured by Turkish security in Kenya.

Schools, cultural centers and associations set up across the world by Gulens transnational network were shuttered or transformed to institutions tied to the Turkish government.

Turkey has also repeatedly requested the clerics extradition from the U.S.

___

This version corrects name of bridge to the July 15 Martyrs Bridge., not the July 15 Bridge.

__

Robert Badendieck and Mehmet Guzel contributed from Istanbul.
ANKARA, Turkey (AP)  In a surprise move, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan dismissed the rector of Istanbuls most prestigious university whose appointment seven months ago led to relentless daily protests and hundreds of arrests.

Melih Bulu was removed from his post as rector of Bogazici University in a presidential decree issued early on Thursday. No reason was given for his dismissal. Bulu was a former political candidate from Erdogans ruling party.

Students and faculty had led mostly peaceful protests against Bulu since his appointment in January, denouncing his links to the government and demanding that the university be allowed to elect its own president.

Some of the protests turned violent earlier in the year, with police detaining hundreds of demonstrators at the university and in solidarity protests elsewhere, some of them taken away following raids to their homes. Most were later released.

Top government officials have said terrorist groups are provoking the protests, and Erdogan has called the protesting students terrorists.

Bulus deputy, Mehmet Naci Inci, was named acting rector until a new appointment is made.
In trying to understand the assassination of President Jovenel Moise, Ive been pondering its roots in recent Haitian political history.

Haiti is divided into two factions: the Haitian people, who need everything, and the elite or business class, who have everything. It is basically that stark. And thats what is being fought over as Haitians and the international community decide how to proceed with governance after Moises killing.

In the three decades Ive reported on Haiti, Ive seen two foreign occupations. One in 1994, when Americans went in to return President Jean-Bertrand Aristide to office after hed been deposed in a coup in 1991, and another that began in 2004, when Aristide once again was ousted from the presidency. That coup led to the United Nations mission to stabilize Haiti, which remained in the country for 13 years.

In many ways, the arguments and discord today in Haiti circle back to those two occupations and the reasons they were put into place.

Today, Haitis youthful population might not even recognize Aristide, but his name is still synonymous there with the peoples struggle for representation in government and for a better life. He ran on a platform to give all Haitians what he called a seat at the table.

Those words still resonate, as a team of U.S. officials arrived in Haiti on Sunday to help with the investigation of Moises assassination. Monday, the team met with three Haitian officials  acting Prime Minister Claude Joseph, Prime Minister-Designate Ariel Henry and Senate President Joseph Lambert  who all are vying to grab presidential authority. But none of them are constitutionally acceptable or associated with popular movements.

In the years after Aristide, the U.N., U.S. and the Organization of American States had undue influence on Haitian elections. After the 2010 earthquake, they supported  largely behind the scenes  a self-declared Duvalierist, Michel Martelly, in a controversial and irregular election, and then Moise, Martellys chosen successor.

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Both Martelly and Moise were elected while the United Nations still was patrolling pro-Aristide neighborhoods of the capital, keeping the peace by firing rounds into the tin-and-cardboard shantytown houses where so many Haitian voters reside.

The right-wing, anti-democratic faction was able to triumph again  not in coups, but in elections  with the help of the U.N. occupation and the rest of the international community.

The fact is, the Haitian people are not a population the international community feels competent to deal with, whereas political figures such as Martelly and Moise, who claimed to be in charge and able to run the country, are familiar and acceptable.

Both men seemed comfortable with Haitis rising business class  often called the mafia by Haitians. The members of this mafia are on good terms with the international community. They speak perfect English. They have nice houses and invite diplomats to dinner. They have servants and armored cars and working generators so that they dont have to suffer when blackouts come. They can talk a very good game.

But did Martelly and Moise run the country properly? No.

A Haitian appeals court report found that both men participated in siphoning funds from a $2 billion petroleum discount account set up by Venezuela to benefit Haitian social programs. And thats only one of the many corrupt schemes they and their close associates have been accused of, to say nothing of undermining Haitis institutions  including the Legislature, municipal bureaucracies and the courts  and allowing gangs to control Haitis streets and kidnap, rob and kill innocent civilians.

Whats most disturbing is that the support the OAS, the United States and the United Nations gave Martelly and Moise seemed to blind them to other actors on the Haitian scene. There are, after all, plenty of well-spoken progressives who want to help their countrymen have a better life, with free education, as well as healthcare, sanitation, COVID-19 vaccines (by the time of Moises death, his government had offered zero vaccines to the people), retirement pensions  and security in the streets. These were among the goals of the Aristide administrations. They are still what Haitians hope for.

If the international community insists on supporting men such as Claude Joseph, whom Moise had fired as prime minister just days before his murder, there will be no free and fair elections, and the future will continue to be dark and dysfunctional for the Haitian people.

Amy Wilentz is the author of The Rainy Season: Haiti Since Duvalier and Farewell, Fred Voodoo: A Letter From Haiti.

2021 Los Angeles Times
The State Departments point person on Israel-Palestine warned Israeli officials during his talks in Jerusalem this week that the Palestinian Authority is facing dangerous economic and political crises, three Israeli officials told me.

Why it matters: The Palestinian Authority is going through a deep legitimacy crisis after the postponement of the parliamentary elections and the death of a political activist in the custody of Palestinian security forces.

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The situation has been exacerbated by a financial crisis largely driven by the coronavirus pandemic.

Driving the news: Hady Amr, the deputy assistant secretary of state for Israeli-Palestinian affairs, arrived in the region on Sunday, meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbass aides and senior government officials in Ramallah before meeting Israeli officials in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

Israeli officials who attended the meetings with Amr or were briefed on it told me he stressed that he came back from Ramallah very concerned. I have never seen the Palestinian Authority in a worse situation," Amr said, according to Israeli officials.

The Israeli officials added that Amr told them that the combination of the financial and political crises puts the Palestinian Authority in a very precarious situation.It is like a dry forest waiting to catch on fire," he said, according to sources.

The State Department declined to comment.

The big picture: Amr proposed several measures the Israeli government can take to help the Palestinian economy and the Palestinian Authoritys budget, and ultimately strengthen its standing in the occupied West Bank.

Whats next: A source familiar with Amrs talks told me that he stressed to both Palestinian and Israeli officials that he isnt going to press them or beg for them to take steps and they will have to work it out themselves. If you want the U.S. to help, we will be happy to do it."

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(Reuters) - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) said on Wednesday it has sued Amazon.com Inc to force the retailer to recall hundreds of thousands of hazardous products that it had distributed on its platform.

By a 3-1 vote, the CPSC voted to file an administrative complaint saying the Seattle-based e-commerce giant was legally responsible to recall the products as they posed a serious risk of injury or death to consumers.

The products included 24,000 carbon monoxide detectors that failed to go off, nearly 400,000 hair dryers that lacked required protection against shock and electrocution, and "numerous" children's sleepwear garments that could catch fire, according to the CPSC.

"We must grapple with how to deal with these massive third-party platforms more efficiently, and how best to protect the American consumers who rely on them," CPSC Acting Chairman Robert Adler said.

The regulator added that Amazon had taken unspecified actions for some of the products, but it was not enough. (https://refini.tv/2UOb7SV)

Amazon said in a statement it was "unclear" why the CPSC rejected its offer to expand its recall program, including for products sold by third parties, or sued to force actions "almost entirely duplicative" of what it had taken.

The company said it had removed "the vast majority" of the products in question from its store and provided full customer refunds.

(Reporting by Chavi Mehta in Bengaluru and Jonathan Stempel in New York; Editing by Shounak Dasgupta)
By Humeyra Pamuk and David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The United States is preparing to impose sanctions on Friday on a number of Chinese officials over Beijing's crackdown on democracy in Hong Kong, and warn international businesses operating there about deteriorating conditions, two people with knowledge of the situation told Reuters.

The sources said the financial sanctions would target seven officials from China's Hong Kong liaison office, the official platform which projects Beijing's influence into the Chinese territory.

A separate updated business advisory issued by the State Department would highlight U.S. government concerns about the impact on international companies of Hong Kong's national security law. Critics say Beijing implemented that law last year to facilitate a crackdown on pro-democracy activists and free press.

"Let me talk about the business advisory," U.S. President Joe Biden said when asked about it at a news conference with visiting German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

"The situation in Hong Kong is deteriorating. And the Chinese government is not keeping its commitment that it made on how it would deal with Hong Kong, and so it is more of an advisory as to what may happen in Hong Kong. It's as simple as that and as a complicated as that."

The moves mark the Biden administration's latest effort to hold the Chinese government accountable for what Washington calls an erosion of rule of law in the former British colony that returned to Chinese control in 1997.

Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said at a regular news conference on Friday that the U.S. should stop interfering in Hong Kong.

China would make a "resolute, strong response" to U.S. actions, he said.

Both people, who asked not to be identified, said the Hong Kong measures were still subject to change. One of the sources said the White House was also reviewing a possible executive order on immigration from Hong Kong, but that it was still not certain to be implemented.

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The U.S. Treasury Department has declined to comment on the issue following media reports this week about possible new sanctions.

"We know that a healthy business community relies on the rule of law, which the national security law that applies to Hong Kong continues to undermine," State Department spokesman Ned Price said on Tuesday when asked about the issue.

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman is preparing a visit to Japan, South Korea and Mongolia next week. The State Department's announcement of her trip made no mention of any stop in China, which had been anticipated in foreign policy circles and reported in some media.

The State Department on Tuesday strengthened warnings to businesses about the growing risks of having supply chain and investment links to China's Xinjiang region, citing forced labor and human rights abuses there, which Beijing has denied.

(Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk, David Shepardson, Michael Martina and David Brunnstrom; Additional reporting by Gabriel Crossley; Editing by David Gregorio and Kim Coghill)
By Michael Martina

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Senate passed legislation on Wednesday to ban the import of products from China's Xinjiang region, the latest effort in Washington to punish Beijing for what U.S. officials say is an ongoing genocide against Uyghurs and other Muslim groups.

The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act would create a "rebuttable presumption" assuming goods manufactured in Xinjiang are made with forced labor and therefore banned under the 1930 Tariff Act, unless otherwise certified by U.S. authorities.

Passed by unanimous consent, the bipartisan measure would shift the burden of proof to importers. The current rule bans goods if there is reasonable evidence of forced labor.

The bill must also pass the House of Representatives before it can be sent to the White House for President Joe Biden to sign into law. It was not immediately clear when that might take place.

Republican Senator Marco Rubio, who introduced the legislation with Democrat Jeff Merkley, called on the House to act quickly.

"We will not turn a blind eye to the CCP's ongoing crimes against humanity, and we will not allow corporations a free pass to profit from those horrific abuses," Rubio said in a statement.

"No American corporation should profit from these abuses. No American consumers should be inadvertently purchasing products from slave labor," Merkley said.

Democratic and Republican aides said they expected the measure would get strong support in the House, noting the House approved a similar measure nearly unanimously last year.

The bill would go beyond steps already taken to secure U.S. supply chains in the face of allegations of rights abuses in China, including existing bans on Xinjiang tomatoes, cotton and some solar products.

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The Biden administration has increased sanctions, and on Tuesday issued an advisory warning businesses they could be in violation of U.S. law if operations are linked even indirectly to surveillance networks in Xinjiang.

Rights groups, researchers, former residents and some Western lawmakers and officials say Xinjiang authorities have facilitated forced labor by detaining around a million Uyghurs and other primarily Muslim minorities since 2016.

(Reporting by Michael Martina; additional reporting by Patricia Zengerle; Editing by Leslie Adler)
ISLAMABAD (AP)  A Taliban surge has put the insurgent force in control of key border posts, opened up fresh sources of revenue and rattled many of Afghanistans neighbors.

In the Uzbek capital of Tashkent, a two-day regional meeting that begins Thursday was originally supposed to deal with connectivity in South and Central Asia, encouraging trade ties and transport issues. But it has morphed into a high-level gathering of senior U.S., Russian and EU officials that most certainly will be consumed with Afghanistan and the impact of the rapidly advancing Taliban.

In recent weeks, the Taliban have gained control of key border posts with neighbors Iran, Pakistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

In many instances, Afghanistans security forces and military have put up little to no resistance, after often being left without resupplies or reinforcements. Two weeks ago, more than 1,000 Afghan military men fled across the border into Tajikistan. The Taliban did not pursue them.

The Taliban have also issued statements, including from their senior leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, who negotiated last years deal with the U.S., assuring Afghanistans neighbors they have nothing to fear from the insurgent movement.

The Taliban surge comes as the U.S. and NATO all but wind up their nearly 20 years in Afghanistan. Earlier this week, the U.S. Central Command said the American withdrawal was 95% complete, after President Joe Bidens mid-April announcement that America was ending the forever war.

The Tashkent meeting will have representatives of U.S. Homeland Security as well as Washingtons special Afghan peace envoy, Zalmay Khalilzad. Also attending are Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, as well as Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The five Central Asian States had a separate meeting with Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall, President Joe Bidens assistant for homeland security. Afghanistan figured prominently in their talks, which centered on ways to cooperate on regional security.

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"Participants in the meeting voiced their adherence to creating stable conditions that would help peaceful settlement in Afghanistan, said a statement from the Turkmenistan foreign ministry following the meeting.

The goals of the gathering are now unclear. Rather than the original agenda of highways and railroads, the powers are likely looking for some regional consensus over what a final peace can look like and action from all the players to push that through. The fear is not only over Taliban gains; without a peace deal, Afghanistans many warlords may turn to a new, destructive civil war among themselves to seek power or preserve their interests.

We call on countries of the region and the broader international community to play a constructive role in support of the Afghan peace process, Borrell said, adding he will make a personal plea at the Tashkent conference.

The conference gathers many of Afghanistans neighbors, including Pakistan, Iran, Russia, China, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Several of them have been accused of backing factions inside Afghanistan and fomenting violence for their own gains. They also have concerns about militant groups inside Afghanistan that threaten them, like the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan and the Islamic State group. The Taliban are seen by many, including the U.S., as useful bulwarks against those groups.

In Tashkent, Afghanistans President Ashraf Ghani is expected to meet Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines. At the same time, Pakistan will be hosting a meeting in Islamabad with the Afghan political leadership, apparently aiming to heal regional rifts. That meeting may begin as early as Friday.

The relationship between the two countries is fraught with suspicion and heated mutual accusations.

Ghani has accused Islamabad of fomenting violence in Afghanistan because the Taliban leadership is headquartered in Pakistan. The Taliban also often use Afghan refugee camps in Pakistan for rest and relaxation. Many Taliban leaders also have their families in Pakistans key cities of Karachi on the Arabia Sea and Quetta in southwestern Baluchistan province, where the insurgent movement also brings its wounded for treatment.

Pakistan, however, says it has used its influence with the Taliban to get them to the negotiation table, even as it says that influence is waning as the insurgents gain more territory inside Afghanistan.

Pakistan also accuses Afghanistan of harboring the Pakistani Taliban  the anti-Pakistan militant Tehreek-e-Taliban group, which is separate from the Afghan Taliban and which stepped up its attacks against Pakistans military in recent months. Pakistan also blames Afghanistans intelligence agency of aiding the Pakistani Taliban as well as the Baluchistan Liberation Army, a secessionist movement blamed for attacks against Chinese interests in Pakistan.

The volatility of the regional players makes the relationships often a delicate balance.

The key regional players all share a desire for a more stable Afghanistan, and they back the peace process. But the risk is that they will work at cross purposes by supporting competing factions within Afghanistan, said Michael Kugelman, deputy director of the Asia Program at the U.S.-based Wilson Center.

And at the end of the day, while the Taliban is happy to hear out the Chinese, the Russians, and the Iranians, it has the luxury of shrugging off what they say about easing violence, redirecting their full attention to the battlefield, and finishing off a fight they believe theyre winning.

___

Associated Press writers Daria Litvinova and Vladimir Isachenkov in Moscow contributed to this report.
Reuters

Jordan Spieth said he had done everything he could to end his long wait for a fourth major after falling just short in a thrilling final day of the British Open on Sunday. The Texan ended up in second place, two shots behind compatriot Collin Morikawa who produced a bogey-free final round to claim his second major title. Spieth had begun the day in third place but two bogeys in his first six holes, following on from bogeys on the last two holes of his third round on Saturday, ultimately cost him the chance of repeating his 2017 Open win.
President Joe Biden lifted Nord Stream 2 sanctions to entice Germany's government to cooperate in safeguarding Ukraine from Russian aggression, the president said Thursday alongside German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

During the joint press conference at the White House, the president reiterated his "view on Nord Stream 2 has been known for some time" but added, "Good friends can disagree."

"By the time I became president, it was 90% completed, and imposing sanctions did not seem to make any sense," he continued in the ornate East Room. "It made more sense to work with the chancellor on finding out how she would proceed based on whether or not Russia tried to essentially blackmail Ukraine in some way."

Biden said both he and Merkel asked their "teams to look at practical measures we can take together and whether or not your energy security, Ukrainian security, are actually strengthened or weakened based on Russian actions."

Biden waived sanctions, originally enacted by the Trump administration, against companies helping Russia complete the Nord Stream 2 pipeline in March 2021. Merkel's government heartily petitioned Biden to do so, as the country relies on Russia to supply natural gas.

Earlier in the press conference, the German leader told reporters the entire European Commission negotiated with Russia and Ukraine to extend the natural gas contract through 2023.

"We have a number of instruments at our disposal, which are not necessarily on the German side. But on the European side," Merkel said through a translator of possible malign Russian activity in the energy industry. "At this point in time, I hope we will never have to make those decisions."

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You can watch Biden and Merkel's full press conference below.

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Tags: News, Nord Stream II, Joe Biden, Russia, White House, Angela Merkel, Germany

Original Author: Christian Datoc

Original Location: US lifted Nord Stream 2 sanctions to gain German cooperation in safeguarding Ukraine, Biden says
A US military Black Hawk helicopter that emergency landed in Bucharest on Thursday (AP)

A US Black Hawk military helicopter has been forced to emergency land during a training exercise in Bucharest, the Romanian capital, after it lost altitude.

The helicopter, which landed near the citys Arc De Triumph on Thursday, took out two lamp posts and halted traffic on a road where it came to landing.

It was one of several aircraft taking part in rehearsals for two upcoming military parades; one marking the end of the Romanian Army's military missions in Afghanistan, and another for a Romanian Air Force celebration day.

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Video footage from Thursday appeared to show the helicopter losing altitude and hovering several feet above traffic as Romanian police cleared an area for its landing. It remains unknown what caused the incident, which is under investigation.

"We regret the incident that happened Thursday, with a helicopter of the US Armed Forces that was forced to land in Charles de Gaulle Square in Bucharest," Romania's ministry of defence said in a statement. "The pilot managed to control the aircraft so that there are no victims, and the material damage is reduced."

A Romanian military official told Reuters at the site of the crash landing that the participation of all aircraft in the two events, on Tuesday and Wednesday, had been immediately cancelled while investigations were ongoing.

The US embassy in Romania added that it was "closely following the developments and "working with our Romanian partners to resolve the situation and we will provide updated information as it becomes available.

Romania  which became a member of NATO in 2004  has participated in Afghanistan military missions for 19 years with more than 32,000 troops. It repatriated its last 140 troops from the country at the end of May.

US forces are set to fully withdraw from the country by 31 August.

Additional reporting by the Associated Press.

Read More

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US to begin evacuation of Afghans who aided US military
The U.S. military once trained some of the Colombian soldiers arrested in connection to the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise, according to the Pentagon.

At least 26 Colombians and two Haitian Americans were said to have participated in the incident where armed men stormed Moise's home on July 7 and shot both him and his wife, Martine, who is expected to recover from her injuries, with high-powered rifles. A Pentagon spokesperson did not confirm exactly how many of the arrestees received U.S. training, though he indicated the service members were instructed while they were actively serving in the Columbian armed forces.

A review of our training databases indicates that a small number of the Colombian individuals detained as part of this investigation had participated in past U.S. military training and education programs, while serving as active members of the Colombian Military Forces, Lt. Col. Ken Hoffman told the Washington Examiner in an email on Thursday.

South American officials have indicated that at least 13 of the Columbian suspects in the plot were once soldiers in the country's military.

SUSPECT IN ASSASSINATION OF HAITI PRESIDENT WAS FORMER DEA INFORMANT

On Thursday, Dimitri Herard, who helmed Moise's protective detail at the presidential palace, was detained by police in Haiti. The development was confirmed by a law enforcement spokesperson, according to the New York Times.

Herard was one of four individuals tasked with protecting the leader who have been sought for questioning in the aftermath of his death, as authorities have raised questions about how the attack could have taken place. The head of the presidential guard and two other security personnel were detained earlier in the week.

At the time of the assassination, the armed men identified themselves as members of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, though U.S. authorities have maintained the DEA was not involved in the killing.

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However, the DEA has confirmed that one of the Haitian American suspects arrested in connection to the violence was a confidential informant. Joseph Vincent, a 55-year-old Florida resident, and James Solages, 35-year-old Haitian American Florida resident, were apprehended by authorities last week. The agency did not specify which of the two was the informant.

"Following the assassination of President Moise, the suspect reached out to his contacts at the DEA," the law enforcement body said in a statement. "A DEA official assigned to Haiti urged the suspect to surrender to local authorities and, along with a U.S. State Department official, provided information to the Haitian government that assisted in the surrender and arrest of the suspect and one other individual."

The informant suspect was arrested once before, over two decades ago, for allegedly providing false information to obtain a U.S. passport. Following the apprehension, he became a source "at times" for the DEA.

A third Haitian American, Christian Emmanuel Sanon, has since been arrested and accused of being the lead organizer of the plot.

Haiti's interim government, spearheaded by temporary premier Claude Joseph, has requested U.S. military assistance to maintain order in the poor nation that has since seen spouts of social unrest following Moise's death. President Joe Biden has not ruled out sending help, and a U.S. delegation made up of agents with the FBI and Homeland Security arrived on Haitian shores earlier in the week.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

On Sunday, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby indicated the military was "analyzing" a request from Haiti, though the situation was not an immediate U.S. security threat.

"We are aware of the request by the Haitian government," Kirby said during a segment on Fox News. "We're analyzing it, just like we would any other request for assistance here at the Pentagon. It's going through a review. I'm not going to get ahead of that process."

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Tags: News, Haiti, Foreign Affairs, World, Assassination, Military, Colombia, Pentagon

Original Author: Jake Dima

Original Location: US military trained Colombian soldiers arrested in assassination of Haitian president, Pentagon says
Members of the Uyghur minority group have been detained at camps in Xinjiang

The US Senate has passed a bill to ban imports from China's Xinjiang region, in response to alleged abuses of the mostly Muslim Uyghur minority group.

The legislation would create an assumption that goods manufactured in Xinjiang are made with forced labour, unless proven otherwise.

The Uyghur Forced Labour Prevention Act must pass the House of Representatives before it can be signed into law.

The US has already banned imports of Xinjiang cotton and tomatoes.

The Chinese state has been widely accused of human rights abuses in Xinjiang against the Ugyhurs and other Muslim minority groups.

Experts estimate at least a million people in the region have been detained in camps or imprisoned as part of a crackdown that began in 2017.

Many thousands more who are not detained are subject to extensive surveillance and state control.

China denies all allegations of human rights abuses, saying its network of detention camps in Xinjiang are for "re-education" of the Uyghurs and other Muslims.

The US bill, which passed by unanimous consent on Wednesday, means that importers of products from the region will have to prove the goods were not made with forced labour.

Under the legislation, the US Department of Homeland Security will also be required to create a list of entities that work with the Chinese government in the repression of Uyghurs and other ethnic minority groups, the Bloomberg news agency reported.

"We will not turn a blind eye to [the Chinese government's] ongoing crimes against humanity, and we will not allow corporations a free pass to profit from these horrific abuses," Republican Senator Marco Rubio said in a statement.

It is not clear when the bill will be discussed in the House of Representatives. Its passage follows a warning to US firms that still have supply chain and investment ties in Xinjiang that they "could run a high risk of violating US law".

Western governments have in recent months hardened their stance on companies operating in Xinjiang. Last week, the Biden administration added 14 Chinese firms and other entities to its economic blacklist over the alleged abuses in the region

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Earlier this month, French authorities opened a "crimes against humanity" probe into four fashion brands over claims from the European Uyghur Institute and others that the retailers were profiting from the use of forced labour.

Xinjiang produces 85% of China's cotton and accounts for a fifth of global supplies.

You may also be interested in:

Click here to see the BBC interactive
Baljinder Singh, 60, cleans shoes of devotees visiting a mosque in Punjab as a voluntary service

Founded some 500 years ago in what is now India's Punjab region, Sikhism is the world's fifth-largest religion. But what makes its members habitual do-gooders? Author Jasreen Mayal Khanna writes on the tradition of selfless service ingrained in the community.

Think of any scene of disaster and you'll find Sikh volunteers rallying to the site, feeding migrants, helping riot victims, and rebuilding homes after earthquakes.

From the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar to the Paris terror attacks, the farmers' marches in India to the protests in America against George Floyd's killing, people from this 30 million-strong community worldwide have made it a tradition to help complete strangers in their darkest moments.

Through the pandemic, they reached new heights.

In Maharashtra in western India, a gurdwara (the Sikh place of worship) fed two million people in 10 weeks last year. Other gurdwaras in India melted the gold they had collected over the last 50 years to set up hospitals and medical colleges. Sikh NGOs set up "oxygen langars" - langars are the community kitchens in the gurdwaras - providing free oxygen to people as India gasped and reeled through its deadly second wave of coronavirus.

How did Sikhs become the Good Samaritans of the world? Most religions tell their followers to help others and to do good - but how have the Sikhs gone from talking to doing so effectively?

It goes back to their founder Guru Nanak who preached that selfless service (seva as it is called) and hard work are as important as prayer.

When Sikhs visit the gurdwara, they spend time in front of the holy book, giving thanks and praying, but they spend an equal amount of time helping cook and serve the langars or meals, looking after the devotees' shoes and cleaning the premises.

A Sikh volunteer checks a woman patient of Covid-19 in Delhi

Sikh temples thus aren't just places of worship - they are soup kitchens and homeless shelters and community centres, a place to call home if you have none.

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By making seva the song of the Sikhs, Guru Nanak instilled service in their DNA. This is why Sikh vegetable vendor, Baljinder Singh, has spent every Friday afternoon for the last 40 years looking after the footwear of the Muslims praying in his local mosque in Punjab. "For me humanity is above any religion," he says.

Studies say redirecting our focus from our own problems to helping others can do wonders for our mental health. Giving is associated with benefits - lower BP, lower mortality rates, better moods and higher markers of happiness.

There's also something powerful and soothing about working by hand. Talk to pashmina yarn spinners or Japanese makeup brush producers, and they liken the painstaking work they do to a type of meditation.

Take 97-year-old Nisharat Kaur Matharu who has been cooking for a homeless shelter in Southall, London, during the pandemic.

Ms Matharu is at the age when she could put her feet up. But she believes as long as your hands and feet work, you should use them to serve others. The work is thus its own balm - a kind of meditation without the hard work of getting your mind to be still.

Then there's the dancing Sikh Hasmeet Singh Chandok who was often mistaken to be Muslim in Nova Scotia where he lives. To spread awareness, he started making bhangra videos which went viral. Instead of becoming bitter, he helped others and found happiness himself.

Sikhism is the world's fifth-largest religion

The secret to being good is that it's actually a natural outcome of other behaviours and attitudes. Sikhs pray daily for two things.

The first is "sarbat da bhalla" or the welfare of all and by doing this, they accept all beings as worthy. This is the root of seva and why gurdwaras are open to all.

The second is eternal positivity - what they call "chardi kala". Sikhs chant these two words in every moment of life, when they visit the gurdwara, at weddings and celebrations and to each other when life deals them a blow.

The motivation for doing seva, thus, is to find purposeful happiness in our life.

Psychologists agree that we need two kinds of happiness to lead full lives.

Hedonistic happiness depends on external factors such as compliments or purchases or travel and eudaimonic - a greek work for happiness or welfare - happiness comes from learning a new skill, spending time with family or doing community service. Sikhs are adept at incorporating both.

Does that mean all Sikhs are joyful and joy giving?

Certainly not. The community has seen excesses, patriarchy, crime - and these problems are as widespread among Sikhs as their virtues are. For instance, drug abuse and drug-related crimes are far higher in Punjab compared to other Indian states according to the The Punjab Opioid Dependence Survey conducted in 2015.

Sikhs are as flawed and as human as the rest of us and I don't want to argue that they are better than the rest of us. They aren't. However, the exhortations of their faith and their conditioning leads to a greater proportion of them doing good work than others.

In Sikhism, doing good turns into a celebration and not a duty. This is its secret. This is why Chandok makes his wonderful videos. Or why the Sikhs at the Indian farmers' protests against the new farm bills fed the police.

On the outside these acts of seva may look like grand selfless gestures but while practising them one experiences tranquillity and meaningful joy. It's a solution as extraordinary as it is simple.

Jasreen Mayal Khanna is the author of Seva: Sikh Secrets on How to Be Good in the Real World
More than half of Virginias adult mental health institutions are temporarily halting the admission of new patients in response to serious staffing shortages, according to a letter sent out by Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services Commissioner Alison Land.

Five of Virginias eight institutions have stopped admitting new patients and must reduce their bed capacity limit to reflect their staffing levels. The letter said no person would be unsafely discharged, but the hospitals will not be able to admit new patients until patient volume is low enough to account for staffing shortages.

The department currently has 1,547 direct patients support staff vacancies. The department has tried to staff its facilities with international nurses and temporary contracts, which Land said is incredibly expensive and sometimes triples the cost of regular employees. Many of the contract staff have also stopped renewing contracts or leaving prior to the end of the contract.

Land said the pandemic led many staffers to find other types of work and recent exit interviews show staffers leaving because of increased hours and a lack of safety. With the ongoing shortages, she said the work environment has become dangerous and both staff and patients are at a greater risk of physical harm. There have been at least 63 serious injuries to staff and patients since the beginning of June and there are 4.5 injuries or incidents daily.

Mental health institutions are not the only places suffering from staffing shortages. Similar shortages have been affecting businesses in recent months and business groups have urged the government to take action, such as ending the additional $300 in weekly federal unemployment benefits instituted during the pandemic.

The shortages, Land said, makes it harder to provide effective treatments to patients.

The department is working to fix the shortage and intends to increase bed capacity when it is feasible to do so. Land said she does not want the temporary halt to last one day longer than it needs to.

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In response, the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police & Foundation said the mental health system is broken and the current situation prevents officers from transporting those with mental health problems to locations at which they can receive help.

There is literally no place for people to go who are in critical need of mental health services, VACP said in a statement.

Law enforcement does not have a viable choice: if an [emergency commitment order or temporary detention order] is ordered and there is no psychiatric bed, the only option is street release, the statement said. This is not a viable or responsible option for the treatment and care of an individual in mental health crisis. More than 25 years ago, Virginia made a verbal commitment to community-based mental health care to eliminate the use of state institutions. The verbal commitment has never been realized. The mental health system says it lacks capacity to meet the needs of the mentally ill. Law enforcement cannot answer this lack of capacity nor meet the expectations of the public when it comes to mental health care. Virginia is in a state of crisis, and no one is listening.

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Tags: States, News, Virginia, Mental Health

Original Author: Tyler Arnold, The Center Square

Original Location: Some Virginia mental health institutions halting new patients amid staffing shortage
The Biden Administration has formed a multi-agency task force to address the growing threat posed by ransomware attacks, a senior administration official said Wednesday.

Driving the news: Several ransomware attacks have plagued U.S. companies in recent months.

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President Biden on a call with Vladimir Putin last week demanded the Russian leader crack down on cyber gangs operating in Russia, warning the U.S. would "defend its people" against ransomware attacks.

Details: The interagency group, which has been active since April, regularly convenes with the White House, providing frequent updates on its efforts to prevent critical breaches by cybercriminals.

The task force's priority actions include building an international coalition to facilitate cooperation to address ransomware threats.

It will also explore working with public and private partners to promote reporting of ransomware incidents and payments.

What they're saying: "We're looking for an enduring impact on the ransomware that's plaguing companies around the world, governments around the world," a senior administration official told reporters, per CBS. "No one thing will achieve that."

Worth noting: The State Department announced Thursday that its Rewards for Justice (RFJ) program is offering a compensation of up to $10 million for information leading to the identification of suspected cybercriminals.

Go deeper: Russian ransomware group's dark websites mysteriously go down

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The White House is creating a new group to investigate and tackle ransomware, including cryptocurrency payments, Politico reported Wednesday.

The task force will try to find ways of halting ransom payments made through cryptocurrency platforms, the report said. It will also try to help potential ransomware victims bolster their internal defenses and launch attacks against ransomware operators.

The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) will host a conference, and other branches of the government will provide different resources for potential ransomware victims, according to the report, which cited Anne Neuberger, the White Houses deputy national security adviser for cybersecurity and emerging technologies.

Related: US State Department Offers to Pay for Cybercrime Tips With Crypto

A spokesperson for FinCEN didnt respond to CoinDesks request for comment by the time of publication. A spokesperson for Neuberger couldnt immediately be located.

Ransomware has become an increasingly important focus for U.S. lawmakers and federal officials after several high-profile attacks on different infrastructure firms, including Colonial Pipeline and JBS, a meat processing company. Both companies paid ransoms in bitcoin to their attackers, though federal officials were later able to recover most of the amount paid by Colonial Pipeline.

More recently, software firm Kaseya suffered a ransomware attack, which may have affected hundreds of other firms that rely on Kaseyas product to help manage their computer networks.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Senate Judiciary Committee announced its plans to hold a hearing on ransomware later this month, and other lawmakers have sent companies questions about paying ransoms.

Related: Dont Blame Bitcoin for Ransomware

Its unclear what sort of proposed regulations around crypto may emerge from the White Houses task force. Members of an international Ransomware Task Force said in an April report that more consistent enforcement of anti-money laundering and know-your-customer laws would be the most effective tool for preventing payments, rather than attempting to ban cryptocurrency or prevent its use entirely.

Related Stories
California officials say a wildfire has erupted near the site of the deadliest blaze in recent American history, burning out of control across some 1,200 acres and prompting evacuation warnings in Butte County.

What's happening: While the Dixie fire is currently moving away from Paradise, was on Thursday just 10 miles from the town that was devastated by the 2018 Camp fire. Residents are worried flames could attack the town again, per AP

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Larry Petersen, whose home in nearly Magalia survived the Camp fire, told KHSL-TV that some of his neighbors were "starting to get their stuff together," noting that everybody is "a little worried about it, just no one wants to go through that again."

The big picture: The Dixie fire is one of 68 large wildfires firefighters are battling across the U.S., which have burned across more than 1 million acres, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

There are 14 large fires in Idaho, 12 in Montana, 11 in Arizona, eight in California, six in Washington, two in Wyoming, one in New Mexico, one in Colorado, one in Utah and one in Minnesota.

The largest fire in the U.S. is the Bootleg fire, 15 miles northwest of Beatty, Oregon, which has razed 212,377 acres and was 5% contained as of Wednesday, per the U.S. Forest Service.

Of note: Hot, dry conditions linked to human-induced climate change have exacerbated the situation for firefighters across the country.

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Country music singer Willie Nelson and former U.S. Rep. Beto O'Rourke are fund-raising for a group of Texas Democrats threatened with arrest by Gov. Greg Abbott (R) after fleeing the state to block GOP-led voting restrictions.

Why it matters: O'Rourke created a buzz when he ran as a 2020 Democratic presidential candidate, and now he's using his platform to raise money for the Texas House Democrats.

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By the numbers: By Wednesday afternoon, a fund-raising site for the 57 lawmakers had "raised $526,780 from 14,654 donors, for an average of $36 per donation," according to the Dallas Morning News.

O'Rourke thanked Nelson and wife Annie Nelson in a statement on Tuesday for "generously matching the next $5K in donations to support Texas Democrats in their fight for voting rights."

The big picture: The Texas Democrats fled to Washington, D.C., on Monday night. They have said they'll stay away for as long as necessary to block the Republican voting bill from passing.

That would require the group to remain out of state for at least the remainder of the special session.

The NAACP has said it will offer to pay the Democrats' bail if they're arrested upon their return to Texas.

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A Wyoming bar is facing backlash this week after selling T-shirts advocating violence against LGBTQ people.

The shirts, which feature a man with a pistol and the words In Wyoming, we have a cure for AIDS, we shoot (expletive) (expletive)," prompted outrage on social media for their violent nature and use of homophobic slurs.

"I like to think I'm a pretty resilient person," said Scott Cheney, president of the board of directors at Wyoming AIDS Assistance. "But to see this in a state that I love so much, it made me want to cry."

The Eagle's Nest, a bar popular among motorcyclists in Cheyenne, the state's capital, will no longer sell the shirts, the business owner said this week, according to local media outlets.

The bar's owner, Ray Bereziuk, told The Cheyenne Post that the shirts were sold out and he didn't intend to stock more, adding that he is in the bar business, not the apparel business.

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Wyoming Equality, a nonprofit LGBTQ advocacy organization, shared a photo of one of the shirts on Facebook. The post said the group "failed to convince a local bar to pull these shirts from circulation."

"We hoped that they would choose to stop selling them when they realized the harm it did to the LGBTQ community and those living with AIDS," the post said.

Wyoming Equality decided not to share the name of the business, saying "we do not want them to gain notoriety / sell more shirts off the pain of our community."

"This shirt is not who we are," the post said. "Let's make that clear. Today and everyday."

Facebook

In a statement to USA TODAY, Gov. Mark Gordon said he was disheartened to hear about the hateful message on the shirts.

This hurtful rhetoric is not reflective of our states values, and does nothing but promote hate and division," he said in the statement.

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State Rep. Landon Brown called the shirt despicable in a statement to USA TODAY. While he supports free speech, he said "free speech doesn't mean consequences dont exist."

Brown said the sale of the shirts may also make the state less welcoming to new industries and businesses.

"Im disappointed and frankly Im hurt that anyone in Wyoming feels this way against EITHER of the communities named in the shirt," he said in the statement. "I stand in solidarity with those affected and condemn the sale of such an egregious and irresponsible item.

Cheney told USA TODAY the shirts contribute to narratives that Wyoming is not welcoming to LGBTQ people and will push away young LGBTQ people and businesses.

"We know that Wyoming is better than this shirt but, unfortunately, it's a small group of people that are going to paint the story," he said.

The shirts also brought back memories of growing up gay in Gillette, Wyoming, where Cheney said he was called homophobic slurs in high school and often dreamed about moving.

"(The shirts) struck terror in every LGBTQ person I know in Wyoming," Cheney said. "They felt unsafe and scared, but at the same time there was anger and spite."

Sara Burlingame, executive director of Wyoming Equality, told the Washington Post that the bar's owner said he started selling the shirts soon after the murder of 21-year-old college student Matthew Shepard.

In 1998, Shepard was beaten and left to die after being tied to a fence. His murder sparked a line of state and federal hate crime bills, though not in Wyoming, one of three states that does not have hate crime legislation.

Contributing: The Associated Press

Contact News Now Reporter Christine Fernando at cfernando@usatoday.com or follow her on Twitter at @christinetfern.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Wyoming bar faces backlash for selling shirt advocating LGBTQ violence
In our opinion, St. Augustines coolest pet-friendly attraction is the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. This is the place to go to experience Old Florida scenery and see quaint historical buildings. Youll even have an opportunity to drink from a real spring locally known as the fountain of youth - the magical fountain Ponce de Leon was seeking when he first set foot on St. Augustines shores in 1513. Pets are welcome just about everywhere in the park, so bring them along for the fun.

No need to worry about great places to stay with your pooch, because St. Augustine offers a wide selection of pet-friendly hotels!

Its not surprising that historical small towns have a love for pets. Many such towns have roots in farming, value family and community, and want to preserve the things that matter - just like most animal lovers. Bob Johnson, owner of Wake Forests The Cotton Company, sums it up perfectly:
Back in the 1970s and 80s, he said Lynchburg was discharging more than a billion gallons of combined sewage out of the century-old wastewater pipes, annually.

To date, the city has eliminated 93% of its combined sewage volume, through both separation or capture for treatment, and doubled the wet water capacity of its wastewater treatment plant.

Now, the program has reached the final stretch.

If the city receives the requested $50 million in ARPA funds, it can address the remaining projects and complete the program within the next five years.

When the department finishes the program, he said it will have eliminated more than 95% of the citys overflow, and continue to reduce the frequency and volume, as well as capturing more trash and debris that gets into the system.

With additional storage capacity in sewer lines and greater ability to treat wastewater, it will improve city water quality and meet necessary environmental standards.

The ARPA funding also would free up money to address the other needs in the sewer system, separate from CSO projects, according to Mitchell, and would work to keep rates low for city customers.
The argument for bonds is that roads are a generational investment so its fair to spread that cost over generations. Few people could afford to buy a house if they had to pay for it all in cash.

The gas tax may have made sense in the 1920s, but it makes less sense with each passing day: Decades ago Virginia had to start dipping into other revenue streams to pay for roads and will have to do so even more in the future. Electric cars use no gas, so those drivers pay no gas tax for the roads they drive on.

More broadly, Byrd favored the state paying for roads over schools, which he saw as a local responsibility. Thats the philosophical basis of the disparity we see today between schools in the states most affluent communities and the schools is not-so-affluent places.

Heres the ultimate historical irony: Today Northern Virginia is a stronghold of liberal Democrats, who voted to take down Byrds statue but still benefit from his fiscal policies: They get lots of fancy roads while rural Virginia has schools held together by duct tape.
Japan is a mix of energies and panoramas. The great number of nuances of this destination makes it one of the most visited in the world, receiving around 8 million average tourists each year.

Tokyo is the main tourist destination in Japan. Its main attractions are the result of a mix of culture, society, and politics, qualities that give this city its own special character for any visitor. Without a doubt, Tokyo is an unforgettable destination.

Nikko is a city steeped in culture and religion. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, its history is closely associated with the Tokugawa Shoguns. In addition, it has a national park that borders spectacularity.

Kamakura has one of the best collections of shrines and temples. It is very famous for its huge Buddha statue. Unfailingly, Kamakura is a city that you cannot miss.

Kyoto is the second most popular tourist destination in Japan. Its fame is mainly due to its excellently preserved historical sites (15 of them declared world heritage sites by UNESCO). Kyoto was the capital of Japan and residence of the emperor (from 794 to 1868) and is the source of various aspects of Japanese culture as we know it today. Kyoto has many attractions and is a must-see if you travel to Japan.

Osaka is another vibrant large Japanese city. It is one of the most important ports and commercial centers in Japan. It combines history and modernity. Osaka is without a doubt a destination that you cannot miss.

Modern Hiroshima is known as a place of Peace. Destroyed by an atomic bomb during the Second World War, Hiroshima's main attractions are its Peace Park and Museum of Memory. Don't forget to visit the nearby Miyajima Islands and its famous glittering Torii Gate.

Nara is a beautiful place with splendid temples that perfectly represent the best of Buddhist culture.

Nagasaki was one of the most important ports during the ancient world in the 17th century and the meeting point between Japan and the Western world. These cultural crossroads make Nagasaki the most European city in all of Japan.
One cant talk grocery stores without a mention of the sticky little coupons housewives of the 50s and 60s couldnt get enough of. Trading stamps were a way to get the silverware, small appliances, jewelry and gadgets housewives wanted but were too practical to buy. It was OK to be a bit extravagant in redeeming the stamps  those dream items were now theirs for free.

In Council Bluffs, the Hinky Dinky stores led the stamp innovation. National chain Krogers embarked on a plan to create their own trading stamp rather than have to dilute profits by contracting with a third party like Sperry and Hutchinson, which operated S&H Green Stamps. To help offset the costs of developing such an operation they invited a dozen non-competing regional chains, like Hinky Dinky, to participate in their new Top Value stamps.

Safeway president Lingen Warren resisted the stamps. He was finally ousted as president and the stores began giving Gold Bond stamps. SuperValu food stores likewise gave Gold Bond stamps.
U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst, a combat veteran, on Wednesday criticized President Joe Bidens haphazard withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan, warning it could heighten the risk of future terrorism there as well as in the United States.

Instead of a sound foreign policy decision, the Iowa Republican branded Bidens decision as a clear, callous political message calculated for a front page or prime-time talking point on the 20-year anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

In announcing the withdrawal, Biden said speed is safety, Ernst said during a call with reporters. However, Gen. Scott Miller, who until this week was the top military commander in Afghanistan, painted a much more disastrous picture, saying that the country could soon slide into a violent Civil War.

Biden ordered the withdrawal, saying he doesnt want to sacrifice more American lives. He has pushed back against the notion the U.S. mission has failed even though it is unlikely the Afghan government will control all of the country after the U.S. leaves. The future of the country is in the hands of the Afghan government reaching a peace agreement with the Taliban, which is making rapid advances across the country.

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WASHINGTON  The Biden administration said Wednesday that it is prepared to begin evacuation flights for Afghan interpreters and translators who aided the U.S. military effort in the nearly 20-year war  but their destinations are still unknown and there are lingering questions about how to ensure their safety until they can get on planes.

The Operation Allies Refuge flights out of Afghanistan during the last week of July will be available first for special immigrant visa applicants already in the process of applying for U.S. residency, according to the White House.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki declined to detail how many Afghans are expected to be among those evacuated in the first flights or where those evacuated will be taken, citing security concerns.

The reason that we are taking these steps is because these are courageous individuals, Psaki said. We want to make sure we recognize and value the role theyve played over the last several years.

Confirmation on the timeline of the evacuation flights came as President Joe Biden was set to meet Wednesday with Gen. Austin Scott Miller, who earlier this week stepped down as the top U.S. commander in Afghanistan. Psaki said Biden wanted to personally thank Miller for conducting an orderly and safe drawdown of U.S. troops.
The woman said she was injected for days. She would wake up feeling foggy, dazed and sexually violated. She had bruises on her legs, arms and hips and described some as restraint marks, according to the warrant.

She wasnt directly threatened but, according to the warrant, the man had a gun and she overheard him and his roommate talking about what would happen to her if she tried to leave. The woman said sometimes she heard other womens voices in the house and wondered if they were also being held against their will but she didnt know.

The woman eventually escaped with help from her ex-boyfriend and his sister, the warrant said. She said she hadnt seen the man since.

This 50-year-old hasnt been arrested or charged in connection with this womans report, but he was charged earlier this month in federal court with possessing an unregistered sawed-off shotgun on May 29 in Iowa County. He remains in jail pending trial.

According to the motion, the prosecution became aware of information that could be relevant to the Tibbetts killing but didnt disclose to the defense there also were unresolved abduction investigations pending at the time the inmate tipped them off to the new information.
DES MOINES  Officials have voted to declare two Iowa counties as Second Amendment sanctuaries where any laws hindering gun rights cannot be enforced, joining similar efforts across the country and coming even as Iowa has significantly loosened firearms regulations.

Republican supervisors in Jasper County unanimously approved a resolution Tuesday and Republican supervisors in Hardin County did the same Wednesday, becoming the first Iowa counties to implement such measures.

Elsewhere in the U.S., at least 1,200 local governments have declared themselves sanctuaries insulated from state and federal gun laws since 2018, when high-profile mass shootings prompted calls for stronger regulations. An ordinance passed in Columbia County, Oregon, last year is the first to face a legal challenge over whether it can be enforced.

The Iowa resolutions say the county supervisors want to ensure that citizens rights are protected against legislation on the state or federal level.
IOWA SENATORS

OFFER SUPPORT

During his weekly call with Iowa reporters, Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, who has been in Washington since 1975 and the U.S. Senate since 1981, said it was up to Reynolds to make the decision she did.

I think the governor is in the right and helping the governor of Texas out because the federal government is not doing its job, he said. If it was doing its job, we wouldnt have anybody crossing the border.

Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, a second-term Red Oak Republican in the U.S. Senate since 2015, told reporters during a separate teleconference that she believes Iowa taxpayers have a right to know what duties Iowa State Patrol troopers are performing in Texas, how much money is being spent and other details of the current mission.

I believe transparency is always the best policy, and so I would love to know, of course, what our state troopers are doing, she said. I do support the governors efforts there. But since our taxpayer dollars are being spent on that, yes, we should have some accountability on, you know, what those troopers missions are and how theyll be utilized at the border.
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Well, any loss for a pedo is a win for me. Fuck Roy Moore. And fuck all his child molesting friends.

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Sorry for submitting 3x, I forgot about the error and got confused!

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Why is that error happening when submitting posts?

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"this page is temporarily unavailable" but it's an official lj page. not like my page won't refresh. so it looks like it didn't submit

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I don't think anyone knows, but it's def site wide as it happens in other comms too (I've now learned to ignore it lol), and has been on for around a week now afaik... very odd

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Fuck Roy Moore

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Learn more about LiveJournal Ratings in Hello! Your entry got to top-25 of the most popular entries in LiveJournal!Learn more about LiveJournal Ratings in FAQ

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That is sad

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lol are we the only community left thats not DOA?

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Omggggggg that clip



I hadn't seen it before

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Hit dogs holler  he would've been better off not bringing this lawsuit

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same; wish guiliani would try it and get torn to shreds

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I've been reading these stories about (https://www.rawstory.com/rudy-giuliani-desperate-drunk/) Giuliani and that hes basically a washed up drunk now.

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lol it's always fun when losers lose

too bad there are actual victims

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Honestly, I love how SBC has used his ability to stay in character for so long for exposing shit.

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80 million is outrageous, your reputation isnt worth dog shit Roy Moore let alone 80 million.

Also I cant stop thinking about Sacha denying that hes never smoked weed before so strongly, I just didnt take him for someone whos never had a joint

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The security Sasha most have on himself. Oh my God does he love to piss off people in this country. He will go to the underbelly and gladly spotlight on it all while trying to against some kind of horrific humor. Im not about have enjoyed every word the man has ever said. Im just saying it takes some guts to do what hes done for the last several years and trying to show us exactly how America really is

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He legit puts himself in danger doing some of this shit, I know it turned out fine but my heart was in my mouth when he got on stage in front of a bunch of lunatics with guns

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As crazy town as the alt right trump loving republicans are now, I hope he stays safe tbh

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Excellent work, as always, Sacha

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Good. Fuck that guy.

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OF COURSE Trump endorsed this mother fucker.

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And the judge also ruled that he can't re-file the lawsuit, so a big fuck you to Moore for wasting the courts time.

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China is set to release another 10 million tons of coal from its reserves to prevent shortages amid soaring coal prices and tight supplies in the fifth such release this year.

The Chinese government will release further volumes of coal if the market demands it, the Chinese state planner, the National Development and Reform Commission, said, as carried by Reuters.

Each of the four previous releases were of 5 million tons each.

As per Reuters estimates, China holds around 40 million tons of coal in its reserve bases.

Because of its geopolitical spat with Australia, China has been restricting coal imports from this major supplier, which tightened the coal supply in China and led to surging coal prices. China has been forced to buy increasing amounts of Indonesian and Russian coal to accommodate domestic demand, triggering a more than 25-percent price hike compared to January levels.

Last month, China began to look to put soaring coal prices under control by starting an investigation into the market and coal prices to prevent speculation and hoarding of supply.

Chinese state planner, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), and the state market regulator announced in June a probe into the coal prices in the worlds largest energy consumer, according to a statement from NDRC carried by Reuters.

The Chinese authorities will check abnormal trading and speculation, as well as crack down on hoarding and driving up prices, the statement reads.

The surging price of coal is affecting the downstream sector and the real economy, according to the Chinese state planning body.

Chinas coal market has been distorted since the Chinese authorities banned coal imports from Australia as part of the dispute between the two countries, which has affected coal supply into China. Australia used to be Chinas second-largest thermal coal supplier before the geopolitical rift at the end of last year.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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New Mexico, the Land of Enchantment, was concerned when Bidens pause on oil and gas drilling leases took hold, but six months into the new administration the states oil industry continues to go from strength to strength. After uncertainty about political decisions concerning oil and gas, following a year of low demand that drove down both oil prices and production levels, New Mexico has surpassed North Dakota as the second-largest oil producer in the U.S. following a boost in oil production this spring, not seen since the pre-pandemic period.

At the beginning of the pandemic, in the spring of 2020, the rig count in the region dropped significantly as oil prices hit a low of -$40 a barrel due to demand destruction. Now, however, with a relatively successful vaccination rollout and fewer restrictions, both demand and oil prices are bouncing back in a big way. The impact on New Mexico of this rebound has been stark, with roughly 75 rigs now back online in the state.

In March, oil production in the state increased to 35.8 million barrels compared to 33.7 million barrels in January, with only Texas producing more oil. The states production centers primarily around the southeast Permian Basin region, as extraction levels in this area keep rising.

New Mexico and other U.S. oil states have been able to benefit significantly from the OPEC+ oil production cuts this year, allowing some U.S. oil firms to return to pre-pandemic output levels in response to the growing global demand.

New Mexico expects its Permian Basin region to prosper in the coming years, as it has a competitive advantage compared to other oil states thanks to low operating costs and high-quality wells.

Despite difficulties in 2020, oil revenue in New Mexico totaled around $4 billion, with $2 billion of this figure contributing to the states general fund.

Dawn Iglesias, the state Legislative Finance Committee Chief Economist, explained of the revenue, This faster-than-expected recovery that weve seen in prices and production is leading to higher revenue collections for this fiscal year versus our consensus forecast and will likely lead to an uptick in projections for the next fiscal year.

Now, New Mexico is looking forward to seeing what other ways the energy sector could help bring in more revenue, create more jobs, and cause less waste while the demand for oil and gas remains high.

The plugging of thousands of abandoned oil wells across the state could create over 65,000 jobs and bring in billions in revenue, according to a recent study.

President Biden has proposed greater federal funding to plug oil wells across the U.S., making them safer for local residents and the environment as well as saving money for states which have been footing the cost up until now.

Related: Colombia Looks Offshore To Revitalize Its Oil Industry

New Mexico, an arid, desert state, is now looking at ways to reuse wastewater, a biproduct of oil and gas production. As the water could contain pollutants, harmful to animals and humans, much of the wastewater is simply pumped back underground to be disposed of. However, many argue that this water could be treated at a cheaper cost to make it useable.

Mathias Sayers, vice president of legal at NGL Energy Partners, stated While it was just produced water disposal in the past, now its produced water management. This suggests that finding a way to treat and reuse this water in other industries could reduce waste, create jobs, and bring in more state revenue.

As New Mexico looks to keep its oil and gas industry ticking over for years to come, the state must explore the potential for greater revenue and job creation in the energy industry while demand remains high to profit from the finite energy source.

By Felicity Bradstock for Oilprice.com

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As expected, OPEC leaders Saudi Arabia and UAE have reached a so-called solution to the current export quota conflict. For two weeks, the global oil market was shocked by the strong position taken by Abu Dhabis power brokers, which demanded higher baseline production quota. OPEC sources now have stated that both countries have reached a compromise on production.



Even that the first reactions to the so-called agreement which includes a higher base line production level for the UAE are positive, the deal in reality is nothing more than a band aid. Officials in many oil importing nations are hoping that the agreement will help to cool soaring prices.

Reuters reports indicate that Riyadh has agreed to Abu Dhabi's request to have its baseline production level lifted to 3.65 million barrels per day (bpd) when the current pact expires in April 2022, according to the source. The current baseline for the UAE was around 3.17 million bpd.



With this gesture, Riyadh looks to keep the current OPEC+ agreement in place, while giving room to Abu Dhabi in order to claim a potential win-win situation. However, the higher production baseline will only be implemented in April 2022, and is a long way from the requested 3.8 million bpd at present. Knowing both sides, the first reactions will be positive, indicating a renewal of the Riyadh-Abu Dhabi-Moscow tandem, showing the market that OPEC is not heading towards a possible breakdown or implosion. It also shows that analysts that were expecting Abu Dhabi to leave OPEC were too quick to draw conclusions. Still, the unease about production quota may persist in the UAE, and the conflict could flare up again at the next OPEC+ meeting.

The high-profile clash between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed is not over, instead, its just been pushed aside for the moment being. For both parties, a more volatile oil (and gas) market is not the goal, as both pursue a stable situation where prices stay at a level that is acceptable for both producers and consumers.

OPEC also wants to continue the overall strong cooperation of the last years, as non-OPEC, especially Russia and FSU countries are starting to become unhappy about production and export levels. Russian companies are for sure willing to up the ante, bringing additional volumes to the market to reap the gains at present. Some other OPEC producers, including Iraq are also unhappy about missing out on higher revenues or market share due to OPEC policies.



Battling COVID-19s economic impact, high unemployment, and the ongoing threat of energy-transition polices in the EU and OECD, a growing amount of countries want accelerate the monetization of their hydrocarbon resources. The UAE-Saudi spat is only a sign on the wall of future problems within the cartel. Whatever analysts were stating, MBS and MBZ are maybe competing on lots of issues, but oil and gas are still a binding factor for decision making and cooperation. Saudi Arabia also knows that Abu Dhabis continues to invest in increasing its production capacity, which it aims to boost to around 5 million bpd by 2030.

Related: Oil Stabilizes After Saudi-UAE Compromise Removes Major Uncertainty



The increases in production capacity are likely to become a point of contention within OPEC during the next couple of years. Today, ADNOC Offshore has awarded drilling contracts to Schlumberger, ADNOC Drilling and Halliburton, targeting integrated riggless services across six of ADNOC Offshore's artificial islands in the Upper Zakum and Satah Al Razboot fields. ADNOCs investments until 2025 are already set at $122 billion on growth projects, including the ramp-up in oil production capacity to 5 million bpd by 2030 from around 4 million bpd at present.

On the sidelines, OPEC+ is also keeping an eye on U.S. shale developments. Until now, higher oil prices have not significantly boosted shale oil production, but this could change if prices go even higher. Oil prices of $75-80 are high enough for most drillers to commercially produce their reserves.

The last thing OPEC wants is a new wave of U.S. shale oil onto the market. The current market environment, even with a more belligerent Abu Dhabi, is too positive for Arab and Russian producers to destroy. External factors such as the COVID-19 Delta variant and a slowdown in Chinese oil imports is also being assessed. The European Green Deal presented today is still not seen as a major deal breaker, looking at the internal weakness of the European Union and lack of speed of implementation in general. With the global economic recovery picking up pace, and with oil demand on the rise, there is room for more production, but new conflicts within OPEC, and diverging production strategies are on the horizon.

By Cyril Widdershoven for Oilprice.com

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Oil prices dropped early on Thursday as the market assesses the prospect of higher crude supply from the OPEC+ group after a reported compromise between key OPEC members Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

As of 11:21 a.m. EDT on Thursday, WTI Crude prices were down by 0.53 percent at $72.78 and Brent Crude was falling by 0.56 percent at $74.37.

Oil prices extended losses from Wednesday, when the market fell sharply after reports emerged that Saudi Arabia and the UAE had resolved their nearly two-week-long standoff over baseline production levels that was blocking a unanimous OPEC+ deal on oil supply. Under the compromise, the UAE will see its baseline production level lifted to 3.65 million barrels per day (bpd) after the current pact expires in April 2022, according to a Reuters source. The current baseline for the UAE is around 3.17 million bpd.

A new date for OPEC and OPEC+ meetings will be set soon, various sources told media on Wednesday.

Oil came under pressure on Wednesday also because of the weekly inventory report from the Energy Information Administration. Although the EIA reported a crude oil inventory draw of 7.9 million barrels for the week to July 9, it estimated builds in gasoline stocks despite lower production at U.S. refineries. Gasoline stocks increased by 1 million barrels for the week to July 9, which compared with a significant draw of 6.1 million barrels reported for the previous week. Production of gasoline last week averaged 9.9 million bpd, which compared with 10.6 million bpd for the previous week.

The data also showed a large reduction in implied demand over the week, with total product supplied falling by 2.24MMbbls/d. Gasoline and distillate fuel oil implied demand fell by 760Mbbls/d and 676Mbbls/d respectively, ING strategists Warren Patterson and Wenyu Yao said on Thursday, commenting on the not very supportive report.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Serious differences over China and the Nord Stream-2 Russia to Germany natural gas pipeline are expected to be high on the agenda as President Joe Biden hosts outgoing German Chancellor Angela Merkel for what's expected to be her last visit as head of state to the White House on Thursday. She steps down this fall after long ago affirming she wouldn't seek a fifth term in 2021, and since becoming chancellor has made 23 official visits to Washington. The two sides are hoping to mend deeply strained relations ahead of Germany's election in ten weeks.

Two main points of contention going back into the Trump administration which have soured relations on an unprecedented scale between Berlin and Washington have remained Germany's more 'open' and cooperative relationship with China as well as Nord Stream-2, the latter for which Germany and European companies have come under prior US sanctions, but which Biden reversed for the main German company overseeing its side of the project, now said to be over 95% complete.

Congressional hawks have lately criticized Biden for getting "soft" on the NS2 pipeline, essentially 'greenlighting' it for completion to the benefit of Russia and the detriment of Ukraine. Despite the prior firm US stance that the project should be halted, including via coercive and punitive measures, it now seems the working assumption on the part of the administration is that its completion is inevitable.

According to a preview of the Biden-Merkel White House meeting in CNN:

Biden will raise his "long-standing concerns" over Nord Stream 2 with Merkel, including his desire to ensure it isn't used for coercive purposes against Ukraine, according to one official. Instead, officials believe Biden's decision earlier this year to waive congressional sanctions on Germany has allowed "diplomatic space" for talks between the two sides, even if no resolution on the thorny issue has been found.

So it appears Thursday is all about "making assurances" so that each side can save political face - not just on Russia-Ukraine and the NS2 controversy, but on the deeply divergent approaches to China.

CNN further cited a Council on Foreign Relations analyst and senior fellow, Matthias Matthijs, to say it's "clear" that Germany "wants to move ahead with the pipeline and wants to reassure the US that this won't give (President Vladimir) Putin's Russia the opportunity to blackmail the EU."

Biden and Merkel Still Far Apart on China: Biden and Merkel will make all the right noises at their meeting this week. But deep transatlantic tensions persist. https://t.co/x6WJK7fEuO  Pham Quang Vinh (@vinhlhq2015) July 15, 2021

"The Germans are hoping to get the basic go-ahead on (Nord Stream 2), a commitment from the US that it can increase its exports of Liquefied Natural Gas to Europe, and will want to avoid to get drawn into a new Cold War with China, where Berlin has its own commercial interests," Matthijs added.

The first foreign leader to visit the White House was in April, when Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga met with Biden and the two issued a joint statement highlighting a united front against China expansive claims in the South China Sea. Merkel will be the first European leader to visit the White House in what's been a very slow pace of hosting foreign leaders since Biden entered office.

Earlier in the day Merkel met with Vice President Kamala Harris at the Naval Observatory...

Image source: UPI/Rex/Shutterstock

Biden is expected to "convey gratitude" for her years of leadership in Europe and the world as Chancellor of Germany, hence Thursday's meeting is also largely symbolic and as a farewell visit of sorts, despite the White House emphasizing her brief tour is a "working" visit.

By Zerohedge.com

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The Court of Justice of the European Union upheld on Thursday a lower tribunal's ruling which had said that Russia's access to the OPAL gas pipeline should be limited.

The court case is a win for Poland against an appeal of the lower court's ruling filed by Germany.

The OPAL pipeline, operated by OPAL Gastransport, is a 470-kilometer (292 miles) long pipeline, which links the operational Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline of Russian gas giant Gazprom to Germany.

The European Commission (EC) granted in 2016 an exemption to the OPAL operator from EU energy solidarity regulations, meaning that Gazprom could use OPAL to ship natural gas at almost full capacity of the pipeline.

The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), based in Luxembourg, annulled in 2019 the 2016 decision that allowed Gazprom to increase gas shipments through the OPAL pipeline.

Germany appealed at the Court of Justice of the European Union and lost the case, after the court sided with Poland on Thursday.

According to today's court decision, which is final, the EU must take into account the concerns expressed by Poland, as well as Lithuania, about the rising Russian supply to Europe, because the exemption of Gazprom from EU energy legislation was "in breach of the principle of energy solidarity."

According to Reuters, today's ruling is not expected to significantly change Gazprom's gas deliveries via OPAL, as they had already been reduced before the court case.

Poland's gas company PGNiG said, commenting on the ruling:

"The Court of Justice of the European Union has ruled that the European Commission violated the principle of energy solidarity by issuing a decision on the OPAL gas pipeline. The verdict strengthens Poland's energy security and may be important for the further fate of the Nord Stream 2 project."

Poland is one of the most vocal opponents to the Gazprom-led Nord Stream 2 project from Russia to Germany, concerned about Russia using gas sales and its gas monopoly Gazprom as a political tool. Poland, several other EU countries, and the United States see Nord Stream 2 as further undermining Europe's energy security by giving Gazprom another pipeline to ship its natural gas to European markets.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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Iran will not return to the negotiating table with the United States until it forms a new government, The Washington Post has reported, citing U.S. government officials.

The new government should take office in August.

The update should be welcome by all parties involved as it reduces the uncertainty about the future of the talks after the sixth round ended last month. No side had previously given any indication on when the next round would start.

"They are not prepared to come back before the new government," one unnamed diplomatic source told Reuters this week, adding, "We are now talking probably not before mid-August."

"We were prepared to continue negotiating but the Iranians requested more time to deal with their presidential transition," said a spokeswoman for the U.S. State Department, as quoted by Reuters.

"When Iran is done with its process, we are prepared to plan our return to Vienna to continue with our talks," the spokeswoman added. "We remain interested in seeking mutual return to compliance with the JCPOA, though as (Secretary of State Antony Blinken) has made clear, this offer will not be on the table indefinitely."

At the end of last week, a Russian diplomat involved in the talks said that about 90 percent of the work on the deal was done, but the remaining 10 percent involved sensitive political matters that had yet to be settled by the negotiators. These included the possibility of the United States again withdrawing unilaterally from the deal.

Ulyanov noted that the U.S. side had said it could not provide guarantees that would not happen because of its legislation. According to him, however, the guarantee is pretty obvious: if one side, he said, begins to "misbehave", the other side would have the right to respond in kind. For instance, if the United States were to pull out of the deal, Iran would recommence enriching uranium.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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The commercial arm of the state-run oil giant in the world's fourth-largest oil products importer has banned any new business with global commodity trader Trafigura AG, according to documents seen by Reuters, as the investigations surrounding the global oil trader's role in alleged corruption continues.

The commercial arm of Mexico's state-run oil giant, Pemex, has temporarily banned all new business with Trafigura.

It follows crude oil trader PMI Comercio International's similar action earlier this month, canceling new business interactions until further notice.

All other divisions within Pemex continue to do business with Trafigura.

And it's not just Trafigura that is in the hot seat.

Over the past two years, some of the world's largest oil traders have become the envy of many smaller traders for managing to pull some outlandish profits amid one of the worst oil crises in history. These traders, including Big Oil companies and independent traders, have been doing a rip-roaring business ostensibly by following Warren Buffett's mantra of being greedy when others are fearful and having access to esoteric resources such as giant underground storage caverns.

But those profits came at a price. Some of those large traders gained the upper hand through underhanded deals. Vitol Group, the world's largest oil trading firm, agreed in December to pay a shockingly small fine and disgorgement of $164 million to the DOJ and CFTC for oil bribes in Brazil, Mexico, and Ecuador. Vitol has also been saddled with penalties by the CFTC for attempting to manipulate two S&P Global Platts physical oil benchmarks.

Meanwhile, Trafigura is facing a lawsuit in Brazil that seeks damages from the company and its former executives on corruption allegations involving Petrobras. The lawsuit is seeking to freeze $187 million of the defendants' assets.

By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com

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Hanson is a registered voter in Sarpy County, where he has lived since 2006, according to county records.

A countys sheriff must reside in the county for which they hold office, but a candidate doesnt need to live in the county when he or she files for election, said Justine Kessler, the elections manager for the Douglas County Election Commission.

The commission wont accept election office filings until early January, as spelled out in state law. Non-incumbents have until March 1 of the election year to file, Kessler said.

Once a candidate is elected, he or she must live in the county by the time of he or she is sworn in, Kessler said.

Hanson said Thursday that he has purchased a lot in Douglas County and just paid his first installment of property taxes. He said hes looking for a home builder.

If elected, Hanson said, he will have moved in by the time he takes office.

Hanson said people have asked him whether he would consider a run for Sarpy County sheriff, but he has rejected that idea.

My law enforcement culture, my cultural center, is Douglas County law enforcement, he said.
We landed in a spot that we think is exciting, and one that we think will be very beneficial to a lot of people, Kalcevich said in an interview.

The Parks Department consulted with the Omaha Police Department on the trail hours adjustment. Police leadership was supportive of the change, Kalcevich told council members. National data related to the safety of unlimited trail hours is limited, Kalcevich said, but his team found nothing overwhelming to give them pause.

Trail users must follow all Nebraska bicycle laws and safety guidelines. The use of trails is considered an at-your-own-risk activity, and there is a recommended speed limit of 20 mph.

Trail users should not stop along the trails or in the parks from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. unless an emergency situation arises, the rules state.

City officials looked to peer communities such as Minneapolis, Denver, Chicago, Boulder and Park City, Utah, when considering the trail hours. Kalcevich said many of them keep trails open. Omahas parks remain closed from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m.

We should encourage, not discourage, multimodal transit on all of our trail systems, Council President Pete Festersen said this week during a public hearing on the changes. I think thats what this does.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP)  A fund formed in response to the deadly racial violence four years ago in Charlottesville, Virginia, said Thursday it will award $3 million in grants to more than three dozen groups and sites nationwide to help preserve landmarks linked to Black history.

Recipients of money from the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund include a consortium of civil rights sites and Black churches in Alabama; work to establish an African American heritage trail in Colorado; and preservation of the church where Emmett Till's funeral was held in Chicago after his lynching in Mississippi in 1955.

Other grants announced Thursday include money to hire a director for Save Harlem Now!, a historic preservation effort in New York; repairs to the African American Museum and Library in Oakland, California; and research on enslaved people at Hacienda La Esperanza in Puerto Rico.

Grants ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 will go to recipients that represent centuries of Black experience and help tell the full story of U.S. history, said Brent Leggs, executive director of the fund. The nation should value the link between architecture and racial justice, Leggs said.
SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine (AP)  A pipeline company has dropped a federal lawsuit against a Maine city, bringing an end to a yearslong legal battle over a local law that stopped the company from bringing crude oil from Canada.

South Portland and Portland Pipe Line Corp. were in court for more than six years over the city's Clear Skies ordinance. The law stopped the pipeline company from reversing the flow of an old pipeline to bring the crude oil to Maine.

The company gave up its fight on Thursday, the Portland Press Herald reported. The company had wanted to bulk-load crude oil onto marine tank vessels in South Portland's harbor. It has instead agreed with the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to dismiss its appeal of a prior federal court judgment upholding the city's ordinance.

South Portland Mayor Misha Pride said he is proud of our community for having the fortitude to stand up for what we believed to be right, and to invest the time and financial resources necessary to defend ourselves. The city has spent $2.8 million fighting the lawsuit, the Press Herald reported.
CALEDONIA, Wis. (AP)  A Wisconsin gunman who killed a 22-year-old man who was pumping gas later shot himself in the head after exchanging gunfire with an undercover sheriff's investigator, authorities said Thursday.

John McCarthy, 32, of Hartland, killed himself after confronting the undercover sheriff's investigator at another gas station not far away in Caledonia on Tuesday, the state Department of Justice said in revealing new details about the shooting.

The Racine County Sheriff's Department named McCarthy as the shooter earlier Wednesday.

Both McCarthy and the investigator were struck by gunfire before McCarthy fatally shot himself, the justice department said. The investigator, whose name hasn't been released, is recovering at a Racine hospital from wounds that arent considered life-threatening.

McCarthy lay in wait for 22-year-old Anthon Griger, of Elkhorn, as he filled up his vehicle at the Pilot Travel Center at 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Racine County Sheriff Christopher Schmaling said. The sheriff said McCarthy executed Griger.

Officials have not identified a motive for the shooting.
ANKARA, Turkey (AP)  Turkey marked the fifth anniversary of a failed military coup with a series of events Thursday commemorating the people who died trying to quash the uprising against the government.

The observances kicked off with visits to grave sites and memorials honoring the dead, where prayers were held. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan led a ceremony in parliament before attending other events, including the opening a museum commemorating the crushing of the July 15, 2016 coup attempt.

On that night, factions within the military used tanks, warplanes and helicopters to try to overthrow Erdogans government. Heeding a call from the president, thousands took to the streets to oppose the takeover attempt.

A total of 251 people were killed and around 2,200 others were wounded as the coup-plotters fired at crowds and bombed parliament and other government buildings. Around 35 people who allegedly participated in the plot also were killed.

We will never be a be able to repay the brave men who, through their sacrifices that dark night, brought a (bright) morning for our nation and democracy, Erdogan said Thursday. Through its resistance on July 15, our people not only averted a coup attempt but also prevented an attempted occupation (of) our country.
In the U.S., all 50 states and Washington, D.C., have taken steps to prevent bullying and protect children, but no federal law exists to directly address it even though 60% of teens have experienced cyberbullying.

More generally, all levels of government must commit to massively re-fund the infrastructure of community  vital gathering places such as libraries, playgrounds and youth clubs. This may give us the best possible chance of reversing the loneliness crisis and reconnecting with one another. Since the 2008 financial crisis, funding for community infrastructure has been slashed across much of the world. For instance, federal support for U.S. libraries decreased by more than 40% from 2008 to 2018, while the United Kingdom has closed nearly a fifth of its libraries, about 800 total.

Individuals also have clear roles to play. As we emerge from this prolonged period of social isolation, we can commit to making this a summer of reconnection. This means rushing less and stopping to talk more, whether to a neighbor, a postal carrier or someone who appears to be lonely. It means breaking out of our self-suffocating digital privacy bubbles and engaging with those around us, even when our default is to scroll on our phones. It means showing more gratitude to those who care for others in society and saying thank you more to our partners, our friends, our colleagues  even our Alexa.

We inadvertently built a lonely world, but it doesnt have to remain that way.

Noreena Hertz is the author of The Lonely Century: How to Restore Human Connection in a World Thats Pulling Apart.
Farms, Fire and Forest:

Adolph Sutro and Development "West of Twin Peaks"

Copyright  2003 by Richard Brandi

In 1880, Adolph Sutro bought hundreds of acres west of Twin Peaks and planted thousands of trees during the next 20 years He created a huge forest in the middle of San Francisco. The forest might have been turned into rows of tightly packed houses on rectangular street grids, with little regard for the contours of the land--had it not been for Sutro's long stewardship and the 20-year probate after his death. A stewardship marked by farms and fires.

Today some of San Francisco's most desirable neighborhoods cover Sutro's farms and forest: Forest Hill, St. Francis Wood, Ingleside Terrace, Westwood Park and adjacent areas. Desirable for their generous lot sizes, detached homes, gently curving streets, and landscaping, these neighborhoods owe their unique design to the City Beautiful movement of the early 20th century and the mania to rebuild after the 1906 earthquake and fire.

The Breasts of the Indian Maiden ---Twin Peaks Block Development

Although San Francisco grew rapidly after 1849, development west of Twin Peaks lagged for decades. The land west of the hills was one vast sand dune, swept by wind and fog most of the year. A ridge of tall hills, three times taller than Telegraph Hill, cut off the western part of San Francisco from the bay side.

Starting with Mount Sutro (elevation 918 feet) near Cole Valley, running south to Twin Peaks (called Los Pechos de la Choca or "the Breasts of the Indian Maiden" by the Spanish, 919 feet), and ending at Mt. Davidson (936 feet), these hills sheltered the City by the Bay from the fog and offshore wind. But they also blocked development.

View of Twin Peaks looking north standing on Mt. Davidson in 1903. The road running left to right is present day Portola Drive. Tower Market stands near the white farmhouse on the left. Photo courtesy of Greg Gaar.

This vast area was home to few attractions: the beach, a racecourse and scattered farming. The Beach and Ocean Race Course, built in 1865 just south of what is now Sigmund Stern Grove, featured horse racing. Large crowds made the journey through the hills on weekends. "Road houses" such as the Ocean House near the beach or Lake House near Lake Merced 1 offered food and drink.

The only road over Twin Peaks began at present-day 17th Street and Collingwood, ran east along the present-day Market Street, up Corbett, down Portola Drive, and south along Junipero Serra Boulevard to Ocean Avenue. (Today's Upper Market and Portola streets closely follow the old road, although they are twice as wide.) 2

In 1872, the road was paved, christened the Mission and Ocean Beach Macadamized Road, and a tollhouse was erected at the top of 24th Street. 3 The rock for paving the road probably came from a quarry just off the road in Edgehill, where the First Church of the Nazarene now stands at Waithman and Portola. It was in operation until 1916. Landslides still occur as result of the quarrying. 4

The toll for the 2-3 mile trip was 10 cents for a horse, 25 cents for a one-horse carriage, 40 cents for a two-horse carriage, and 50 cents for a four-horse carriage. In keeping with the agrarian nature of the area, loose cattle, sheep and hogs could be driven over the road free of charge. The tolls were unpopular and expensive, worth about $6 in today's dollars for a one-horse carriage. The City bought the road and abolished tolls in 1877. 5

At the western base of the hills, at the present intersection of Ocean Avenue and Junipero Serra Boulevard, travelers could rest their horses and fortify themselves at Farley's saloon. Bernard Farley established the saloon in 1863, and he and his sons worked and lived there for the next 50 years. Sons John, James (a blacksmith in 1877, then a bartender in 1888), and Bernard Jr. (a bartender in 1893) sold their own brand of elixir, "B. Farley's Wonderful Discovery," in 1899. 6

Adolph Sutro Buys a Farm

Adolph Sutro is remembered for building the Cliff House and Sutro Baths, battling the Southern Pacific railroad, and serving as a populist mayor (in 1895-96). But when he arrived in San Francisco in 1879, he was just another silver millionaire (his $900,000 from the Nevada Comstock silver mine was worth about $22 million in today's dollars). Sutro went on a spending spree, buying property in downtown San Francisco and the undeveloped land west of Twin Peaks, later to become the Richmond and Sunset districts. He eventually owned about 1/12 of the city. 7

Sutro is quoted as saying, "I took my money and invested in real estate... when everyone was scared and thought the city was going to the dogs. [There was an economic depression at the time.] I bought every acre I could lay my hands on until I had 2,200 acres in this city." 8

His largest single piece of real estate was the 1,200-acre Rancho San Miguel, the remnant of a large Mexican land grant originally awarded to Jose Noe in 1845. Noe and his successors did some grazing but little else with the land. 9

Sutro's parcel ran from the present-day University of California-San Francisco (UCSF), south along Stanyan Street, up over Twin Peaks in an imaginary line due south (aligning roughly with present-day Genesee Avenue), continuing south in the Ocean View district, then east to Junipero Serra Boulevard and to Laguna Honda reservoir (click on the map at right for a closer view in a new window). 10 It contained Mount Sutro (which Sutro named Mount Parnassus), Twin Peaks, and Mt. Davidson (called Blue Mountain). Before Sutro, these hills were called the San Miguel Hills.

(Continued on Page Two...)
West Portal - Introduction

Welcome to the "virtual" version of the West Portal History Walk, a self-guided historical tour along West Portal Avenue. With support from the California Council for the Humanities, participation from the merchants of West Portal Avenue and a great deal of work by Richard Brandi, the walk debuted in storefront windows on February 1, 2002.

Richard is a West Portal resident and fourth-generation San Franciscan who dug through historical collections for representative images and wrote this brief history of the neighborhood.

Surrounding the West Portal neighborhood are the unique urban developments of Forest Hill, St. Francis Wood, Balboa Terrace, and other "residential parks" that were designed with prohibitions on commercial use. West Portal Avenue acted as the commercial strip serving these neighborhoods.

This almost complete separation of commercial and residential districts later became commonplace with the advent of true suburbs after World War II. In the setting of a major city, and with neighborhoods whose very existence was owed to the construction of mass transportation (the Twin Peaks streetcar tunnel), this balanced relationship between developments is historically significant.

We hope you enjoy yourself on this trip to one western neighborhood's past!

The West Portal History Walk

First stop

Index of the walk:



Introduction (Poster)



Image: Poster of the downtown and outlying districts shaking hand through the Twin Peaks Tunnel. Courtesy of the California Historical Society.

Contribute your own stories about western neighborhoods places.!
The Minister of Health, Mr Kwaku Agyeman-Manu, has given the assurance that in spite of frustrations in accessing vaccines from the global market, the government was determined to vaccinate a greater chunk of the population

He said although over 1.2 million Ghanaians had so far been vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus, we want to vaccinate 20 million people, which represents about 60 per cent of the population and by this, we will achieve herd immunity.



Mr Agyeman-Manu was speaking at a meeting between the Ministry of Health, the Japanese government and the United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) to review the country partnership over a period of time.



The health minister explained that out of the number that had been vaccinated, 381,000 of them had received their second jabs, with plans underway to ensure the rest got their second jabs.



Review meeting



The meeting was to celebrate the successes chalked up in the long-term relationship between the government, Japan and UNICEF.



It was on the theme: Celebrating successes and exploring more opportunities to give every child in Ghana a fair chance in life.



Universal health coverage



Mr Agyeman-Manu said the government appreciated the immense support from the Japanese government and other development partners towards the countrys universal health coverage drive and strengthening the health system, specifically the COVID-19 response.



We have had a long and successful relationship with the government of Japan and UNICEF in the implementation of various initiatives related to improving the health of Ghanaians. As a sector, we have benefitted immensely from technical support and grant aid provided, he stated.



He said Ghana had defined universal health coverage as all people having timely access to high quality health services irrespective of ability to pay at the point of use. We are aware that most of these programmes implemented with support from Japan and UNICEF have accelerated our progress towards attaining our universal health goals, especially in improving access to quality health services, including maternal and child health services.



Access to health services



The health minister also pointed out that access to health services had been enhanced in several regions and districts, with the support provided towards strengthening CHPS services, especially in the five regions in the northern part of Ghana.



During the COVID-19 pandemic, access to testing facilities were also enhanced with the support provided to the Noguchi Memorial Institute of Medical Research, which placed the institute at the fore of the detection of the virus in Ghana, even before other facilities were brought on board.



The recently installed COVID-19 testing and diagnostic machine at the Eastern Regional Hospital has also contributed to the testing capacity for Ghana and reduced the waiting period from several days to a few hours, he stated.



The Government of Japan has contributed nearly $1 million to procure ultra-cold chain equipment, designed to store COVID-19 vaccines at very low temperatures, as part of an ongoing strategic partnership with the Government of Ghana to shore up COVID-19 vaccinations and population immunity in the country.



The investment is expected to ensure capacity building and training of over 140 health staff on how to operate and maintain the cold chain equipment and monitor the COVID-19 vaccines distribution.



The Japanese Ambassador to Ghana, Mr Himeno Tsutomu, said Japan strongly emphasised human security as one of the philosophies of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development.





Human security is not only about protection but also empowerment, and so it is profoundly important to intervene in the areas of health and nutrition as well as to fight against COVID-19.



This new contribution has brought the total of Japans support through UNICEF in Ghana to approximately $3.3 million since 2019, he stated.



Building back better



The UNICEF Representative in Ghana, Ms Anne Claire Dufay, for her part, said the strategic partnership was essential to build back better and strengthen health systems for the future.



Together, we are making a difference in the lives of children and their families, she said.









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Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The immediate past Deputy Ambassador to China, Dr Charles Dwamena, has bade farewell to Chinese Government Officials and institutions with whom he had a close working relationship during his term of office.



Having successfully completed his term of office, Dr China, as the diplomat is popularly known, embarked on a thank you and farewell tour to major cities and provinces in China to thank the Chinese officials and institutions for their support and also to bid them goodbye.



The thank you tour that took him to cities including Qingdao, Hangzhou, Shanghai and Wuxi ended with a visit to Wenzhou City where he met the city officials and officials of Wenzhou Medical University, his alma mater.



At a banquet hosted in his honour by the Wenzhou Municipal Government, the former Deputy Ambassador thanked the city officials for their immense support during his duty tour. He thanked the city government for the donation of medical supplies to Kumasi city during the pandemic as well as the governments support for the Embassys programs including the annual Ghana- Sino (Wenzhou) Cooperation Forum.



He observed that, Wenzhou City has largely developed on its own, with very little aid from non-Wenzhou people and that Ghana, under the leadership of H. E. President Nana Addo, has also chosen a path of development beyond aid. The Vice Mayor of the City, Mr Yin Zhijun, thanked the Diplomat for boosting the cooperation between Ghana and China, particularly Wenzhou. He indicated the enhanced cooperation has resulted in an increased volume of trade between Wenzhou and Ghana, which currently stands at RMB 1.5 billion per annum.



Whiles in Wenzhou City, Dr Charles Dwamena paid a farewell visit to the Wenzhou Medical University where he thanked the leadership of the school for training over 100 Ghanaian doctors and also offering to set up a RMB 30 million Advanced Vision Center of Excellence at the Tamale Teaching Hospital to enhance eye care in Tamale and beyond. He expressed the hope that although the COVID-19 pandemic has slowed down the implementation of the Project, the officials will take the necessary steps to speed it up as soon as possible.



He appealed to the authorities to offer the incoming Ambassador and his Deputy the maximum support so as to ensure continuity of all initiated programs. The Vice President of the Wenzhou Medical University, Prof Jin Shengwei, thanked Dr Dwamena for his continuous support to his alma mater and assured him of the universitys commitment to the Cooperation Agreement signed with the Tamale Teaching Hospital and pledged to ensure the continuation of all initiated projects.



At a brief ceremony organized later that day, the Wenzhou Medical University conferred on Dr Charles Dwamena, the prestigious Outstanding Alumni Award, which is the highest award conferred on past students of the university. Notable alumni of the University who have received this award include Prof. Shen Xiaoming- Vice President of Shanghai Jiaotong University, Dr. Zhou Jian - Co-inventor of the HPV vaccine and Prof. Miao Tianrong - an International Vision Expert. Dr Charles Dwamena is the first African Alumni to be awarded this prestigious award.



Dr China later on met the members of the Ghanaian Community and encouraged them to explore more opportunities whiles in China so as to be able to direct investment back home. Present at the meeting were Dr Percy Akweteh, Mr Emmanuel Tachie and other leaders of the Community.



Dr Charles Dwamena has successfully completed his duty tour in China and is scheduled to return to Ghana by the end of July to continue serving Ghana, his motherland.





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Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The Ga East Municipal Hospital has revealed it is currently out of oxygen and health practitioners to sustain admitted COVID-19 patients and to cater for new ones.



Speaking in an interview on Asaase Radio, Dr Joseph Oliver-Commey, the acting Director of Ghanas Infectious Disease Centre explained that the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for critical COVID-19 patients is full, and the ward for severe cases is also filled to capacity and can no longer admit new patients due to inadequate oxygen and staff.



The only reason why you can take patients into your ICU is when you have oxygen and adequate staff to handle them, he said.



At the moment we are constrained by lack of oxygen and it is not only the infectious disease centre, almost all the ICU centres are constrained by oxygen including the use of high flow oxygen, very expensive that patients cannot afford.



He added: We are not saying we cant look after the patients but the things to use to look after them, the nurses, the oxygen is a problem.



You narrow it down only to oxygen, I said oxygen plus the personnel, so I could have the oxygen but not the personnel and if I dont have the personnel, why do I put a patient on the bed?



He advised Ghanaians to adhere strictly to all COVID-19 safety precautions as the government is yet to fully vaccinate all the citizens.



What is important at this time is that we stick to the measures that have helped us. Unfortunately, we are behaving like a country that has vaccinated 50% of its population. Even the UK and the USA are able to open up their stadia because they know they have been able to vaccinate all their people but we have not done even two percent of our population yet the ordinary Ghanaian behaves as though there is no tomorrow.



This is my humble plea to all Ghanaians, if you fall sick, and you fall severely ill, government cannot help you, I would not be able to help you and so is your next door neighbour, so consciously prevent yourself from getting COVID-19, Dr Oliver-Commey said.



Meanwhile, Dr Anthony Nsiah Asare, the Presidential Advisor on Health, has warned of a third wave of COVID-19.

According to him, records from the Ghana Health Service indicate an increase in the active, critical and severe cases.

Dr Asare warns that Ghana would continue to witness an increase in COVID-19 cases if Ghanaians do not adhere strictly to the safety protocols.

Source: asaaseradio.com









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The police has dropped a case of sexual abuse and extortion which was reported on May 17, 2017 against Godwin Kwame Dadzawa at the La Police Station in Accra.



With this development, it means the police will not prosecute Mr Dadzawa, and as such he is now a free man.



The Daily Graphic on May 20, 2017 reported the arrest of Dadzawa for allegedly demanding sex as payment for terminating the pregnancy of a woman whereupon he was arrested near Bukom in Accra, following a complaint by the woman.



This was after the supposed victim, a 22-year-old student and a resident of La, in Accra, reported to the police that she was allegedly locked up for four days by Dadzawa in his clinic where he aborted her one-month old pregnancy.



Police report



But a police report signed and issued by the Tesano Divisional Police Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Oduro Amaning, who was then the La District Commander, dated June 28, 2021, said, There was not enough evidence to indict Godwin Kwame Dadzawa.



Based on that the then District Commander, ACP Oduro Amaning, has since closed the case as frivolous, It said.





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The Minority in Parliament has served notice to rely on the Chairman of the Public Account Committee (PAC) to write officially to the Auditor-General (A-G) to audit the account of the First Lady, Mrs Rebecca Akufo-Addo.

This follows the decision of the First Lady to refund the GH899,000 allowances she has received from the state since 2017.



Yesterday, the Office of the President released a press statement that it had received a cheque covering the amount from Mrs Akufo-Addo.



Addressing the press in Parliament yesterday, the Minority explained that an audit by the A-G would help to determine whether the money the First Lady was using to refund the allowance she was paid, was indeed her own resources, or funds she took from her foundation which was funded by state agencies such as Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) and GCB.



We welcome the decision by the First Lady to refund the allowances paid to her since January 2017, but we need to ascertain whether that is the money she actually received and whether interest has accrued on the money and she has to refund same, it said.



The Deputy Minority Leader, Mr James Klutse Avedzi,who addressed the media, said If the First Lady is not interested to receive allowances, then all state sponsorship for her non-profit organisation should also be refunded since she is not personally interested in that.



As Chairman of the Public Account Committee (PAC), we are serving notice that we will write officially to the Auditor General to go into auditing the account of the First Lady as well as the Second Lady, he said.



Refund of allowances



Mrs Akufo-Addo reportedly returned to the state an amount of GH899,097.84 being the full refund of allowances paid her since January 7, 2017.



She issued a Consolidated Bank Ghana Limited cheque with number 000002 for the amount.



The refund follows her rejection of proposed allocated salaries approved by Parliament, which has since generated controversy and engendered public debates over the propriety to consider salaries and other emoluments for presidential spouses in consonance with Article 71 office holders.



Interest must be paid



Reacting to the development, Mr Avedzi acknowledged that the decision by the First Lady to refund the GH899,000 she received from the state should come with some interest that the money would have accrued.



So we are calling on the A-G to go into the accounts of the First Lady to ascertain that the money she actually refunded was the money she received and also compute the interest that would have accrued, if that money had been put to interest-bearing account.



The A-G must also ascertain whether there is sufficient money in the account so that the cheque she has issued will not bounce, he said.



First Lady cant be under Article 71



He asserted that if former First Ladies were legally paid allowances, there was nothing wrong for the current First Lady and Second Lady to also receive allowances from the state.



But when you put the First Lady under Article 71, it is an infringement on the Constitution and that is the point we are raising because there is nowhere in Article 71 that the spouses of the President had been stated to be part of public office holders



She can continue to receive allowance but once we are not equating you to a Cabinet minister it is wrong, he said.



Extend auditing to former First Ladies



In a reaction, the New Patriotic Party MP for Nhyiaeso, Mr Stephen Amoah, welcomed the call by the Minority for the A-G to audit the account of the First and Second ladies.



He, however, called for such auditing to be extended to all former First Ladies, especially the wife of former President John Mahama, Mrs Lordina Mahama, who started taking huge salaries from 2012 and her foundation also received funds from the state.

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Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has emphatically stated that the House neither discussed nor approve salaries and allowances for Presidential Spouses as being bandied about.



According to him, members of parliament were not even provided with a copy of the Prof. Ntiamoah Baidu committee's report to peruse.



Threw Down the Gauntlet



Speaking on Okay Fm's "Ade Akye Abia" programme, the NDC MP stressed that the committee's report did not even make it to the floor of parliament, let alone have members debate on it and approve the recommendations thereof.



"The Heavens can bear me witness I was a member of the seventh parliament and I did not see any committee's report so I don't even know where this claim of parliamentary approval is coming from because our standing orders is clear. Before the House approves something, members of parliament must have a copy and I can tell you authoritatively that no member of the house has a copy of the committee's report.



"I challenge anybody who claims otherwise to come out to dispute what i'm saying. Parliament is a house of records and that is why we should not be joking with certain things," he fumed.



The former deputy Education Minister in the erstwhile John Mahama regime, noted that the country must begin to act seriously and be truthful about some of these things.



Prof. Yaa Ntiamoa-Baidu Committee



The Professor Yaa Ntiamoa-Baidu Committee, in a report dated 18th of June 2020, submitted its recommendations to President Akufo-Addo in fulfilment of the Article 71 provision of the 1992 Constitution which enjoins every sitting President, before the end of his four-year mandate, to set up a Committee to make recommendations on the emoluments for Article 71 officeholders.



As part of the five (5) member committees report, they recommended the payment of a salary equivalent to a Cabinet Minister who is a Member of Parliament (MP) to the First Lady while her husband is in office and the payment of a salary equivalent to 80% of the salary of a Minister of State who is a Member of Parliament (MP) if the spouse served one full term as President or 100% of the salary of a Minister of State who is a Member of Parliament (MP) if the spouse served two or more full terms as President.



Emoluments Backlash



When news of the report went viral last week, it came under intense criticisms from sections of the Ghanaian public, particularly from the opposition National Democratic Congress, who have kicked against the payment of salaries to the First and Second Ladies.



Due to the public backlash, First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo and Second Lady Samira Bawumia have refunded their allowances since 2017.



Watch Video Below





First & Second Ladies' Salaries Refund

Her Excellency Rebecca Akufo-Addo, in a statement dated 12th July 2021, "decided not to accept any monies that have been allocated to be paid to her pursuant to the recommendations of the Prof. Yaa Ntiamoa-Badu Committee, as approved by Parliament".



She cited the extremely negative opinions from critics which are seeking to portray her as a self-serving and self-centred woman as a reason for her refund.



In view of this, she "in consultation with the President of the Republic, has decided to refund all monies paid to her as allowances from the date of the Presidents assumption of office, i.e., from January 2017 to date, amounting to GH899,097.84."



The Second Lady, Samira Bawumia has also indicated she will refund a total amount of eight hundred and eighty-seven thousand, four hundred and eighty-two (GHc 887,482) she's received as allowances from January 2017 to March 2021.



The decision of the two leading ladies of the Republic to refund their allowances is motivated by a recent public outcry that has characterized the recommendation by the Presidential Committee on Emoluments for Article 71 office holders for the First and Second Ladies to be paid salaries.

Source: Isaac Kwame Owusu/Peacefmonline.com/[email protected]









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Social commentator, Bernard Allotey Jacobs has lauded First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo and Second Lady Samira Bawumia over the refund of their allowances.



Critics have condemned the payment of salaries to the President and Veep's wives.



To some Ghanaians, there is no need for the First and Second Ladies to receive monthly salaries as recommended by the Professor Yaa Ntiamoa-Baidu Committee.



Due to what she terms as extremely negative opinions from critics, the First Lady in consultation with President Akufo-Addo ''decided to refund all monies paid to her as allowances from the date of the Presidents assumption of office, i.e., from January 2017 to date, amounting to GH899,097.84."



The Second Lady has also indicated she will refund GH 887,482 she's received as allowances from January 2017 to March 2021.



Allotey Jacobs, speaking to host Kwami Sefa Kayi on Peace FM's ''Kokrokoo'', believed the First Lady's refund is an act dignity saying ''she has dignified herself. People will respect her for it''.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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The Finance Committee of Parliament has tabled a request for the waiver of $13.1 million tax and duties for the purchase of vehicles for the official use of Members of Parliament (MPs) and the Council of State from 2021 to 2024.



The waiver will cover import duties, import national health insurance levy (NHIL), import GETFund levy, import value-added tax (VAT), EXIM levy, COVID-19 levy, African Union (AU) levy, inspection fees and withholding tax (IRS tax deposit) on the vehicles.



Report



The request for the tax waiver was contained in a report which was laid by the Chairman of the Finance Committee, Mr Kwaku Kwarteng yesterday.



The report observed that the loans were necessary to provide the framework for the disbursement of funds by the NIB to finance the purchase of vehicles for MPs and Council of State members.





The report said the need for a safe and reliable means of transport for MPs, in particular, in the performance of their functions between Parliament House and their respective constituencies could not be overemphasised.



The report said the committee noted that in respect of the MPs, the agreement required an undertaking by the Parliamentary Service of Ghana to make deductions from the remuneration of the beneficiaries at source and to issue a single cheque to cover the monthly repayments of the loan.



In the case of the members of the Council of State, it said the Ministry of Finance was required to secure an undertaking from each beneficiary to ensure that allowances were channelled through their accounts with the NIB and to mandate the NIB to effect deductions for the purpose of the loan repayment.



Additionally, the loan agreements require each beneficiary to obtain a comprehensive insurance to cover the vehicles purchased, the report said.



Numbers



The report said the committee agreed with the Ministry of Finance that the number of vehicles to be purchased by each beneficiary member be capped at two for the purposes of the tax waiver which shall not exceed the cedi equivalent of $43,750 for any member.



Thus, any member who purchases more than two vehicles will be required to foot the tax bill on the extra vehicles even if the total tax exemption on the first two has not exceeded the tax exemption cap, it said.



Discontinuation



According to the report, the committee took note of recent concerns expressed by many sections of the public about the burden the current vehicle loan arrangement for MPs and members of the Council of State imposed on the public purse.



These legitimate concerns are fuelled by the fact that of all the Article 71 officeholders, it is only MPs and Council of State members who benefit from these vehicle loans, part of which are re-paid by the state, it said.



The report added: The committee took the view that as representatives of the people, MPs cannot continue to leave these concerns unattended which weakens the confidence Ghanaians have in us and we have a responsibility to reflect the values and ideals of the people we represent.



Accordingly, the committee strongly recommended to Parliament the discontinuation of the current vehicle loan agreement for MPs and the Council of State members.



Members of Parliament and the members of the Council of State should have similar duty post vehicle arrangements as other Article 71 officeholders have. And the committee respectfully recommends that Parliament and the Parliamentary Service take the necessary steps to ensure that this happens.



The instant vehicle loan arrangement for MPs and Council of State members before us today should, therefore, be the last one the state is sponsoring, it added.



Background



On July 7, 2021, the Deputy Minister of Finance, Mrs Abena Osei-Asare, on behalf of the Minister of Finance, laid a $28 million medium-term loan agreement involving the government, MPs of the Eighth Parliament and the National Investment Bank Limited, to finance the purchase of vehicles for MPs of the current Parliament.



Besides, the Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mr Ebenezer Kojo Kum, also laid in the House a $3.5 million medium-term agreement among the government, the members of the Council of State and the National Investment Bank (NIB) Limited to finance the purchase of vehicles for members of the Council of State.



The loan agreements and the request for the waiver of taxes were presented to the House on July 13, 2021 and referred to the Finance Committee for consideration and report.

Source: graphiconline.com









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Nana Aba Anamoah has publicly sent a message to the President of Ghana, H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, asking when he will pay the the GHc 3 million promised for a set of conjoined twins.



The famous Ghanaian TV Personality took to twitter to question the President and his government on when they will fulfill the promise they made to cover the cost of a surgery to separate a conjoined twins at the Accra Regional Hospital.



H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo promised to settle the GHc 3 million cost of a surgery after some concerned Ghanaians took to social media to raise funds to to separate a conjoined twins.



Nana Aba Anamoah was at the fore front of this campaign to raise funds and her actions drew a lot of attention including the President who offered to settle the surgery bill but according to Nana Aba, they are yet to see that money reflect in their account.



No news has been heard from the office of the President in connection to the promise he made and it looks as if it was one of the infamous campaign tricks to gain public affection.



She tweeted, Good evening, @NAkufoAddo I hope youre well. How soon will the Ridge Hospital receive the monies promised for the surgery? Thanks once again. God bless you.



Tweet below-







Good evening, @NAkufoAddo I hope youre well.



How soon will the Ridge Hospital receive the monies promised for the surgery?



Thanks once again. God bless you. pic.twitter.com/b33OVZdKhb

 n.a (@thenanaaba) July 12, 2021

Source: twitter/ghanacelebrities.com









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Credit: X-ray: NASA/CXC/Leiden Univ./A. Botteon et al.; Radio: LOFAR/ASTRON; Optical/IR:PanSTARRS

When the titans of spacegalaxy clusterscollide, extraordinary things can happen. A new study using NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory examines the repercussions after two galaxy clusters clashed.

Galaxy clusters are the largest structures in the Universe held together by gravity, containing hundreds or even thousands of individual galaxies immersed in giant oceans of superheated gas. In galaxy clusters, the normal matterlike the atoms that make up the stars, planets, and everything on Earthis primarily in the form of hot gas and stars. The mass of the hot gas between the galaxies is far greater than the mass of the stars in all of the galaxies. This normal matter is bound in the cluster by the gravity of an even greater mass of dark matter.

Because of the huge masses and speeds involved, collisions and mergers between galaxy clusters are among the most energetic events in the Universe.

In a new study of the galaxy cluster Abell 1775, located about 960 million light years from Earth, a team of astronomers led by Andrea Botteon from Leiden University in the Netherlands announced that they found a spiral-shaped pattern in Chandra's X-ray data. These results imply a turbulent past for the cluster.

When two galaxy clusters of different sizes have a grazing collision, the smaller cluster will begin to plow through the larger one. (Because of its superior mass, the bigger cluster has the upper hand when it comes to gravitational pull.) As the smaller cluster moves through, its hot gas is stripped off due to friction. This leaves behind a wake, or tail, that trails behind the cluster. After the center of the smaller cluster passes by the center of the larger one, the gas in the tail starts to encounter less resistance and overshoots the center of its cluster. This can cause the tail to "slingshot" as it flies to the side, curving as it extends away from the cluster's center.

The newest Chandra data contains evidenceincluding the brightness of the X-rays and the temperatures they representfor one of these curving "slingshot" tails. Previous studies of Abell 1775 with Chandra and other telescopes hinted, but did not confirm, that there was an ongoing collision in this system.

A new image of Abell 1775 contains X-rays from Chandra (blue), optical data from the Pan-STARRS telescope in Hawaii (blue, yellow, and white), and radio data from the LOw Frequency ARray (LOFAR) in the Netherlands (red). The tail is labeled in this image along with a region of gas with a curved edge, called a "cold front," that is denser and cooler than the gas it is plowing into. The tail and the cold front all curve in the same direction, creating a spiral appearance. A separate labeled image shows the field of view of the Chandra data.

Astronomers previously found that Abell 1775 contains an enormous jet and radio source, which is also seen in this new composite image. This jet is powered by a supermassive black hole in a large elliptical galaxy in the cluster's center. New data from LOFAR and the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) in India reveals that the radio jet is actually 2.6 million light years long. This is about twice as long as astronomers thought it was before and makes it one of the longest ever observed in a galaxy cluster. The structure of the jet changes abruptly as it crosses into the lower density gas in the upper part of the image, across the edge of the cold front, implying that the collision has affected it.

According to the new study, the gas motions inside the cluster could be responsible for other structures detected by observing Abell 1775 in radio waves, such as two filaments located near the origin of the jet (one of these is labeled). The LOFAR and Chandra data have also enabled the researchers to study in great detail the phenomena that contribute to accelerating electrons both in this galaxy's jet and in the radio emission near the center of the larger cluster.

Credit: X-ray: NASA/CXC/Leiden Univ./A. Botteon et al.; Radio: LOFAR/ASTRON; Optical/IR:PanSTARRS

There is an alternate explanation for the appearance of the cluster. As a small cluster approaches a larger one, the dense hot gas of the larger cluster will be attracted to it by gravity. After the smaller cluster passes the center of the other cluster, the direction of motion of the cluster gas reverses, and it travels back towards the cluster center. The cluster gas moves through the center again and "sloshes" back and forth, similar to wine sloshing in a glass that was jerked sideways. The sloshing gas ends up in a spiral pattern because the collision between the two clusters was off-center.

The Botteon team favors the slingshot tail scenario, but a separate group of astronomers led by Dan Hu of Shanghai Jiao Tong University in China favors the sloshing explanation based on data from Chandra and ESA's XMM-Newton. Both the slingshot and sloshing scenarios involve a collision between two galaxy clusters. Eventually the two clusters will fully merge with each other to form a single, larger galaxy cluster.

Further observations and modeling of Abell 1775 are required to help decide between these two scenarios.

A paper describing the results by Botteon's team has been published in the journal Astronomy and Astrophysics and is available online. The separate work on the "sloshing" theory led by Dan Hu has been accepted for publication in The Astrophysical Journal and is also available online.

Explore further Abell 2384: Bending the bridge between two galaxy clusters

More information: 1) Nonthermal phenomena in the center of Abell 1775: An 800 kpc head-tail, revived fossil plasma and slingshot radio halo, arXiv:2103.01989 [astro-ph.CO] 1) Nonthermal phenomena in the center of Abell 1775: An 800 kpc head-tail, revived fossil plasma and slingshot radio halo, arXiv:2103.01989 [astro-ph.CO] arxiv.org/abs/2103.01989 A. Botteon et al, Nonthermal phenomena in the center of Abell 1775, Astronomy & Astrophysics (2021). DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202040083 2) The Merger Dynamics of the Galaxy Cluster Abell 1775: New Insights from Chandra and XMM-Newton for a Cluster Simultaneously Hosting a WAT and a NAT Radio Sources, arXiv:2103.03382 [astro-ph.CO] arxiv.org/abs/2103.03382 Dan Hu et al, The Merger Dynamics of the Galaxy Cluster A1775: New Insights from Chandra and XMM-Newton for a Cluster Simultaneously Hosting a Wide-angle Tail and a Narrow-angle Tail Radio Source, The Astrophysical Journal (2021). DOI: 10.3847/1538-4357/abf09e Journal information: Astronomy and Astrophysics , Astrophysical Journal , Astronomy & Astrophysics
The numbers refer to the number of companies that had identified each risk. Credit: Adams/Abhayawansa

Many UK companies will have to make statements about the risks of climate change to their businesses under new proposals being put forward by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). So-called "premium-listed" companies that follow the highest regulatory standards are already having to make such statements in their financial reports as of this year, but the FCA now wants to roll it out to most other listed companies by 2023 (and other financial bodies such as asset managers).

This will involve UK companies reporting on business risks such as more frequent and extreme weather events, rising temperatures and rising sea levelsin line with the recommendations of the international Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).

A number of companies around the world are following these requirements already, while the G7 finance ministers recently made a commitment to make climate-risk reporting mandatory for companies registered in their countries. In the US, for example, a debate is now underway about what form these disclosures should take and whether firms should be legally liable for their assessments.

This all reflects the fact that political discussions around the world in 2020 and 2021 have been dominated by the severe risks around climate changeand also future pandemics. Leading accounting bodies and others are pushing for companies to disclose risks related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which means pandemics as well as climate change.

There has already been a shift in investments to favor companies that address such risks, and making risk-reporting mandatory in company disclosures is crucial to getting this trend to continue.

Yet for now at least, most companies are still reporting on such risks at their own discretion. Our newly published research shows the scale of the challenge. We examined all publicly available disclosures by the world's top ten airlines and top five hotel and cruise companies. Many are household names, and they are among the most threatened by pandemic and climate risks in the world. Here's what we found.

The disclosure shortfall

We examined the companies' disclosures in the months leading up to the pandemic. These included annual reports, sustainability reports, websites, stock exchange submissions, and disclosures under the CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project) global system for reporting environmental impacts.

These risks are about the present as much as the future. Holidaymakers are already being faced with climate effects such as less snow at certain ski resorts, floods, wildfires, heatwaves and other extreme weather events. Loss of biodiversity is making some destinations less popularnot least Australia's Great Barrier Reef. And before coronavirus, airlines and hospitality companies had already experienced substantial economic costs from SARS and Mers.

Yet only six out of our 20 companies treated pandemics as a separate risk category in their disclosures. Others referred to the lesser risks of epidemics and disease outbreaks, but often did not explain how their business operations and profits could be affected.

One cruise provider had listed controlling the transmission of diseases onboard and protecting employees as its only pandemic-related risks. The bigger risks of reduced passenger demand, route closures and disruptions to operations and supply chains were not mentioned. Few of the airlines and hotel companies discussed these either.

Meanwhile, only four companies explained strategies for mitigating pandemic-related risks. These were limited to assurances of having disaster recovery and business continuity plans.

The numbers refer to the number of companies that had identified each risk. Credit: Adams/Abhayawansa

Disease risks identified by companies

Our 20 companies showed only slightly better awareness of the business risks from climate change. Five of themincluding four airlinesdid not disclose any potential risks. Among those that did disclose risks, the focus was on reducing fuel or energy use and carbon emissionsreflecting the increased risk of regulation and pressure from stakeholders to reduce emissions.

But other risks such as customers switching to "greener" alternatives or extreme weather were usually not acknowledged. Strategies for addressing the longer-term effects of climate risks were also rarely considered.

Companies and their climate-risk strategies

These limited disclosures show how much needs to change in airlines and hospitality for climate and pandemic risks to be treated appropriately. And when you consider that these firms are among the most threatened, other sectors could well be even worse at risk reporting.

The IFRS problem

One other difficulty in this area relates to the IFRS Foundation, which issues International Financial Reporting Standards that have to be followed in some 140 countries, including the UK (though not the US). The foundation recently published a proposed Practice Statement on Management Commentary, which relates to how companies should disclose factors that might affect their cashflow and value.

In their management commentaries, companies can incorporate any mandatory requirements about risk reporting such as the ones being proposed in the UK, or choose to follow recommendations like those of the TCFD if they are based in a country with looser rules. Unfortunately, the IFRS proposals are not entirely helpful in encouraging companies to make such disclosures.

The proposals require risks to be disclosed only to the extent that they affect a company's "enterprise value" and future cash flows from an "investor perspective." This goes against efforts over the past decade to encourage companies to think about the value they create for society and their impact on the environmentincluding the European Commission's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive.

The problem is that systemic risks such as climate change are impossible to quantify in monetary terms, particularly in relation to a particular date in the future. Trying to do so is both time-consuming and largely futile. Our research indicates that companies are likely to downplay or ignore risks that cannot readily be translated into financial costs or which may take more than, say, five years to come about.

When identifying risks, companies should also consider their effect on the long-term value of society and the environmentnot only enterprise value as the IFRS Foundation proposes. As countries put more requirements in place around companies reporting such risks, they need to make this part of their agenda as well.

Explore further In world first, New Zealand to make banks report climate impact

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
This undated photo provided by his family in July 2021 shows Oliver Daemen. The 18-year-old from the Netherlands is about to become the youngest person in space. Blue Origin announced Thursday, July 15, 2021, that the teenager will be traveling on the July 20 launch in West Texas. Credit: Daemen Family via AP

An 18-year-old is about to become the youngest person in space, rocketing away with an aviation pioneer who will become the oldest at age 82.

Blue Origin announced Thursday that instead of a $28 million auction winner launching with founder Jeff Bezos on Tuesday, the Dutch son of another bidder will be on board. The company said Oliver Daemen will be the first paying customer, but did not disclose the price of his ticket. But a family spokesperson said it will be considerably less than the winning bid.

Daemen snagged the fourth and last seat on the space capsule after the auction winner stepped aside because of a scheduling conflict. The offer came in a surprise phone call from Blue Origin last week, he said.

"This is so unbelievably cool!" Daemen said in a statement. "The flight to and into space only takes 10 minutes, but I already know that these will be the most special 10 minutes of my life."

He added in a video posted by Dutch broadcaster RTL: "I am super excited to experience zero-g and see the world from above."

Also on Blue Origin's first launch with passengers: Bezos' brother and Wally Funk, one of 13 female pilots who went through the same tests in the early 1960s as NASA's Mercury 7 astronauts but never made it into space because only men were allowed.

This 2021 photo provided by his family shows Oliver Daemen in an airplane cockpit. The 18-year-old from the Netherlands is about to become the youngest person in space. Blue Origin announced Thursday, July 15, 2021, that the teenager will be traveling on the July 20 launch in West Texas. Credit: Daemen Family via AP

The four will blast off from West Texas atop a New Shepard rocket for a 10-minute flight. The Amazon founder will become the second person to ride his own rocket into space, following Virgin Galactic's Richard Branson by nine days.

The teen tourist was going to be on the second launch for paying customers, according to Blue Origin. But once the auction winner dropped out, the company seized on the idea of flying the oldest and youngest people in space on the same flight, the family spokesperson noted.

His undisclosed ticket cost will be donated to charity, just as most of the winning $28 million was distributed this week to a variety of space education and advocacy groups.

"This marks the beginning of commercial operations for New Shepard, and Oliver represents a new generation of people who will help us build a road to space," Blue Origin CEO Bob Smith said in a statement.

This 2006 photo provided by his family shows Oliver Daemen. The 18-year-old from the Netherlands is about to become the youngest person in space. Blue Origin announced Thursday, July 15, 2021, that the teenager will be traveling on the July 20 launch in West Texas. Credit: Daemen Family via AP

Blue Origin has yet to open ticket sales to the public or disclose its anticipated prices. That's expected following the upcoming flight.

Daemen took a year off after graduating from high school last year to obtain his private pilot's license. He'll attend the University of Utrecht in the Netherlands in September.

His father is Joes Daemen, founder and CEO of Somerset Capital Partners, a private equity firm in Oisterwijk, Netherlands. Both father and son were on their way to Texas on Thursday to prepare for the launch, according to their spokesperson..

The elder Daemen said he bid on the seat during the June 12 auction. "But when the bids started to skyrocket during the auction, we dropped out," he said in a statement.

Blue Origin said the unidentified auction winner will catch a future flight.

This undated image provided by Blue Origin shows an illustration of the capsule that will be used to take tourists into space. Blue Origin announced Thursday, July 15, 2021, that instead of an auction winner launching with founder Jeff Bezos on Tuesday, Oliver Daemen, 18, will be on board. The company said he'll be the first paying customer, but did not disclose the cost of his ticket. Credit: Blue Origin via AP

Daemen already has gotten some good space-traveling advice from Dutch astronaut and two-time space flier Andre Kuipers. According to the statement, Kuipers told him "not to make the classic mistake of taking pictures in the short time he is up, but to fully enjoy the view of our beautiful planet."

Soviet cosmonaut Ghermon Titov holds the record for the youngest to fly in space. He was 25 when he blasted into orbit four months after Yuri Gagarin, the first person in space. John Glenn was 77 when he launched aboard space shuttle Discovery in 1998, 37 years after becoming the first American to orbit the world.

Explore further Richard Branson announces trip to space, ahead of Jeff Bezos

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

What are the fundamental skills that young children need to develop at the start of school for future academic success? While a large body of research shows strong links between cognitive skills (attention, memory, etc.) and academic skills on the one hand, and emotional skills on the other, in students from primary school to university, few studies have explored these links in children aged 3 to 6 in a school context. Researchers from the University of Geneva (UNIGE) and Valais University of Teacher Education, Switzerland (HEP-VS), in collaboration with teachers from Savoie in France and their pedagogical advisor, examined the links between emotion knowledge, cooperation, locomotor activity and numerical skills in 706 pupils aged 3 to 6. The results, to be read in the journal Scientific Reports, show for the first time that emotion knowledge, cooperative social behavior and locomotor activity are interrelated and associated with numerical skills. These results are in line with the political and scientific consensus on the importance of social-emotional skills in early schooling and suggest that locomotor activity should be added to these fundamental skills.

A growing number of studies are examining the fundamental abilities that prepare children for school and that are particularly crucial for their future academic success. "Among these abilities, 'emotion knowledge' contributes significantly and is a long-term predictor of social behavior and academic success," says Edouard Gentaz, professor in the Department of Psychology at the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences (FPSE) of the UNIGE and the last author of this study. On the other hand, few studies have examined the links between socio-emotional and academic skills in preschool children. "To fill this gap, we joined forces with the HEP-VS and a team of teachers from Savoie in France and their pedagogical advisor to examine how emotion knowledge, social behavior and locomotor activity are associated and linked to the numerical skills in 706 pupils aged between 3 and 6 years old," continues the Geneva-based researcher. Unlike most research that generally examines school results through reading tests, this study focuses on numerical learning, the performance of which is less correlated with parents' socio-economic level than language skills.

Original tests adapted to the preschool age and educational context

To examine the links between the four variables studied, age-appropriate tests were developed in close collaboration with 33 volunteer teachers, who participated in an interactive workshop in which they were trained to set up, perform and evaluate the different tests in a standardized manner. Thus, emotion knowledge was assessed through two emotion comprehension tasks. The first measured the recognition of the primary emotions of anger, fear, joy and sadness as well as a neutral facial expression and the second measured the understanding of the external causes underlying these emotions in others. This second task was subdivided into two different subtasks: the teacher successively presented the student with five drawing scenarios illustrated by a picture of a character with a blank face facing a particular situation (e.g., "This boy has just received a present for his birthday') and then asked the student to indicate, among five illustrations of facial expressions, the one that corresponded to what the character felt in each situation, first by pointing to it (non-verbal responses) and then by naming it. The assessment of mathematical skills included three numerical tests. For example, the first test sought to assess whether students understood that the cardinal of a collection does not change when the spatial arrangement or nature of its elements is modified: the teacher placed a photograph in front of the student showing four collections of objects (two of which were composed of the same number of elements) and asked the student to indicate which collection contained the largest number of objects, which contained the fewest, and which two collections contained the same number.

Working closely with the teachers and their advisor, the psychologists developed observation grids to assess the locomotor activity and social behavior of the pupils. For locomotor activity, the grid created made it possible to rate the children's performance on an agility course consisting of various installations on the ground and in the air. As for social behavior, the grid developed made it possible to evaluate the children's reactions and attitudes during the practice of two different team games (one with a ball and the other without) observed by the teachers.

Key skills to promote numerical learning

The results of this study reveal that emotion knowledge, locomotor activity and social behavior are interdependent and associated with pupils' numerical skills from the age of 3 to 6 years. "Indeed, specific statistical analyses (regression and mediation) show that high scores on tests assessing emotion knowledge, locomotor activity and social behavior predict better mathematical performance in these students," notes Thalia Cavadini, researcher in the Department of Psychology at FAPSE and first author of the study. "Thus, our results are in line with the scientific consensus on the importance of social-emotional skills at the beginning of schooling and suggest that locomotor activity should be added to these fundamental skills," she concludes. Furthermore, this study is the first to show that emotional, social and locomotor skills promote school learning in toddlers.

More information: Thalia Cavadini et al, Emotion knowledge, social behaviour and locomotor activity predict the mathematic performance in 706 preschool children, Scientific Reports (2021). Journal information: Scientific Reports Thalia Cavadini et al, Emotion knowledge, social behaviour and locomotor activity predict the mathematic performance in 706 preschool children,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-93706-7
Indus River dolphins once swam from the Himalayas to the Arabian sea.

Freshwater dolphins are flourishing in a stretch of Pakistan's main river after a helping hand from fishermen mobilised to defend a rare species driven to near-extinction.

Identifiable by their saw-like beaks, Indus River dolphins once swam from the Himalayas to the Arabian sea, but now mostly cluster in a 180-kilometre (110-mile) length of the waterway in southern Sindh province.

A glimpse of a dolphin cutting through muddy water to gasp for air is a regular sight along the mighty river, but most villagers nearby were unaware their neighbours were on the brink of extinction.

"We had to explain that it was a unique species only found in the Indus and nowhere else," Abdul Jabbar, who gave up fishing for a job on the dolphin rescue team, told AFP on the banks of Dadu Canal, which he patrols by motorbike.

Decades of uncontrolled fishing and habitat loss caused by pollution and man-made dams saw the dolphin population plummet to around 1,200 at the turn of the century.

They are classed as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, which says their numbers have fallen by more than 50 percent since the 1940s.

Dolphin hotline

In a bid to turn around the fortunes of the mammals, Pakistani wildlife officials began a painstaking door-to-door awareness campaign with the local fishing community on the riverbanks and arterial canals.

A glimpse of a dolphin cutting through muddy water to gasp for air is a regular sight along the mighty river, but most villagers nearby were unaware their neighbours were on the brink of extinction.

They offered advice on dolphin-friendly nets and warned against harmful and illegal poison-fishingthe practice of using chemicals to kill small fish used for poultry feed.

The World Wide Fund for Nature also offered up one million rupees ($6,300) worth of loans, encouraging fishermen to set up alternative businesses.

With the help of the provincial wildlife department, they established a dolphin monitoring network of 100 volunteers and a handful of paid staff, and a 24-hour phone helpline for villagers to call if they see a dolphin in distress.

Jabbar's commitment is now boundless.

He recently missed the birth of his child when a dolphin became trapped in one of the river's canals.

"The doctors were preparing for the caesarean and I needed to be with my wife. But when the call came, I rushed that night to rescue the dolphin," he told AFP.

The latest survey, from 2017, showed numbers had rebounded to about 1,800 and wildlife officials expect the population has increased further since.

Decades of uncontrolled fishing and habitat loss caused by pollution and man-made dams saw the dolphin population plummet to around 1,200 at the turn of the century.

Diminishing territory

Local legend has it that the first Indus River dolphin was once a woman, transformed by a curse from a holy man angry that she forgot to feed him one day.

Previous generations believed the dolphinsknown locally as bullenwere cursed.

They have evolved to be functionally blind, allowing for a sharpened sense of sonar as they cut through the muddy waters of the river hunting for prey.

Harmful fishing practices are not the only hazards facing dolphins.

Every January, when water levels are at their lowest, the floodgates to canals are shut for cleaning, creating pools and lagoons that become death traps for stranded marine life.

Wildlife Department official Adnan Hamid Khan told AFP that the recent steady rise in dolphins had been a "success story".

"But with a larger population comes food shortages, decreased range of movementtheir breeding ground and territory has shrunk."

Abdul Jabbar gave up fishing for a job on the dolphin rescue team.

Local legend has it that the first Indus River dolphin was once a woman, transformed by a curse from a holy man angry that she forgot to feed him one day.

Indus River dolphins first came under threat during British colonial rule when dams were built to control the waterway's flow, and later from the discharge of hazardous chemicals when factories sprung up along its banks.

Untreated sewage from rapidly expanding cities and towns is also dumped into the water, Khan said.

But with fishermen on their side, there is some hope for the species.

"Now we save the dolphins with as much dedication as we would a human being," said Ghulam Akbar, another volunteer monitor who also turned to farm fishing in an attempt to limit his impact on the river.

"They breathe like we humans do. Every compassionate man should save them."

Explore further Endangered dolphins are different species, find scientists

 2021 AFP
Two teeth discovered in Puerto Rico provide the first evidence of a Caribbean rodent with North American roots. Researchers named the new genus and species Caribeomys merzeraudi. This artist's reconstruction shows the likely position of the fossil molars in C. merzeraudi's skull. Credit: Jorge Velez-Juarbe

Two fossil teeth from a distant relative of North American gophers have scientists rethinking how some mammals reached the Caribbean Islands.

The teeth, excavated in northwest Puerto Rico, belong to a previously unknown rodent genus and species, now named Caribeomys merzeraudi. About the size of a mouse, C. merzeraudi is the Caribbean's smallest known rodent and one of the region's oldest, dating back about 29 million years.

It also represents the first discovery of a Caribbean rodent from a North American lineage, a finding that complicates an idea that has persisted since Darwinthat land-dwelling mammals colonized the islands from South America. The presence of C. merzeraudi in Puerto Rico suggests a second possibility: Some species may have rafted from North America.

The tiny rodent joins two other types of animals, an extinct rhinoceros-like species and bizarre, venomous shrews known as Solenodons, as the only known examples of Caribbean land-dwelling mammals with North American roots.

"This discovery demonstrates that overwater dispersal from North America was also a potential pathway to the Caribbean," said study co-author Jorge Velez-Juarbe, associate curator of mammalogy at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. "This challenges what we thought we knew about the origins of Antillean terrestrial mammals."

Jorge Velez-Juarbe discovered a fossil site in San Sebastian, Puerto Rico, with fellow undergraduate students in 2006. Excavations have produced fossils from sharks and rays, fish, turtles, a gharial, sea cows and the oldest known frog and rodents in the Caribbean. From top, the paleontologists pictured here are Lazaro Vinola Lopez, Jorge Velez-Juarbe, Francois Pujos and Laurent Marivaux. Credit: Pierre-Olivier Antoine

While Caribbean ecotourism brochures generally don't feature splashy images of rats, the islands were once home to a rich representation of rodents, including spiny rats, chinchillas, rice rats and hutiasall descendants of South and Central American forebears.

Fossil and molecular evidence suggest these rodents arrived in the islands in multiple waves over time, though how they got therewhether by scurrying over an ancient land bridge, island-hopping or raftinghas been hotly contested. The paucity of fossils from the early years of the Caribbean Islands further obscures the picture of the region's past biodiversity.

Caribeomys merzeraudi's teeth were so unusual that researchers initially struggled to discern what kind of animal they had come from, said study co-author Lazaro Vinola Lopez, a doctoral student in vertebrate paleontology at the Florida Museum of Natural History.

"We didn't know what it was for several months," he said. "We wondered whether this could be some other rodent from the Caribbean or even some kind of strange fish. It was so puzzling because they're not similar to anything else we had found in that region."

The team eventually pinpointed several tooth characteristics that are hallmarks of rodents known as geomorphs, a group that includes kangaroo rats, pocket mice and gophers. Caribeomys merzeraudi is the first geomorph found outside North America.

The advanced state of wear on this Caribeomys merzeraudi fossil molar, seen from above in this CT image, leads researchers to believe it came from an old adult. Credit: The Palaeontological Association

An exceptionally thick layer of tooth enamel, among other features, sets C. merzeraudi apart from its relatives and could indicate these rodents belonged to a distinct West Indian branch that evolved in isolation over several million years, Vinola Lopez said.

Scientists found the teeth while screen-washing sediment collected from a river outcrop in San Sebastian, a site that has yielded fossil sharks and rays, fish, turtles, a gharial, sea cows and the oldest known frog in the Caribbean, a coqui. In 2019, the team excavated fossil evidence of two large chinchillas, which likely grew up to 30 pounds. These South American rodents once shared Puerto Rico with the humble C. merzeraudi, which weighed less than a quarter pound.

Today, hutias, bats and Solenodons are the "last survivors of what was once a much more diverse group of Caribbean mammals" that included sloths and primates, Velez-Juarbe said.

Discovering C. merzeraudi opens up the tantalizing possibility that Caribbean mammals with North American origins may not be as exceptional as previously thought, Vinola Lopez said. But there's only one way to find out: "Go back to the locality and see what else we can find."

Explore further Coqui fossil from Puerto Rico takes title of oldest Caribbean frog

More information: Laurent Marivaux et al, An unpredicted ancient colonization of the West Indies by North American rodents: dental evidence of a geomorph from the early Oligocene of Puerto Rico, Papers in Palaeontology (2021). Laurent Marivaux et al, An unpredicted ancient colonization of the West Indies by North American rodents: dental evidence of a geomorph from the early Oligocene of Puerto Rico,(2021). DOI: 10.1002/spp2.1388
This April 23, 2017, photo shows Herbert Glacier near Juneau, Alaska, in the Tongass National Forest. The Biden administration said Thursday, July 15, 2021, that it is ending large-scale, old-growth timber sales on the nation's largest national forest, the Tongass National Forest in Alaska, and will instead focus on forest restoration, recreation and other non-commercial uses. Credit: AP Photo/Becky Bohrer, File

The Biden administration said Thursday that it is ending large-scale, old-growth timber sales in the country's largest national forestthe Tongass National Forest in Alaskaand will focus on forest restoration, recreation and other noncommercial uses.

The U.S. Agriculture Department, which includes the Forest Service, also said it will take steps to reverse a Trump administration decision last year to lift restrictions on logging and road-building in the southeast Alaska rainforest, which provides habitat for wolves, bears and salmon.

A 2001 rule prohibits road construction and timber harvests with limited exceptions on nearly one-third of national forest land. The Trump administration moved to exempt the Tongass from those prohibitions, something Alaska political leaders had sought for years.

Restoring those protections in the Tongass would return "stability and certainty to the conservation of 9.3 million acres of the world's largest temperate old growth rainforest," the Agriculture Department said. It expects to initiate a rulemaking process next month that will include a chance for public comment, Forest Service spokesperson Larry Moore said.

Under the plans announced Thursday, large-scale, old-growth projects that were being planned for the forest will not go forward, Moore said. Smaller timber sales, including some old-growth trees, will still be offered for local and cultural uses such as totem poles, canoes and tribal artisan use, the Agriculture Department said.

Conservationists cheered the announcement.

"Old-growth forests are critical to addressing climate change, so restoring roadless protections to the Tongass is critical," said Andy Moderow of the Alaska Wilderness League, calling the forest an "unmatched treasure."

In this July 31, 2013, file photo, tourists visiting the Mendenhall Glacier in the Tongass National Forest are reflected in a pool of water as they make their way to Nugget Falls in Juneau, Alaska. The Biden administration said Thursday, July 15, 2021, that it is ending large-scale, old-growth timber sales on the nation's largest national forest, the Tongass National Forest in Alaska, and will instead focus on forest restoration, recreation and other non-commercial uses. Credit: AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File

Randi Spivak, public lands program director at the Center for Biological Diversity, said old-growth trees are "carbon-storing champions" and shade salmon streams in the Tongass.

"We need to hang on to what we have," Spivak said of old-growth trees, her voice cracking. "You cannot replace them, not in our lifetime."

Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy, a Republican, criticized the announcement, saying southeast Alaska communities "need fundamental access, like roads, and the economic and resource development opportunities roads provide."

U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan, part of Alaska's all Republican congressional delegation, has said the rule restricting road construction hinders opportunities for timber harvests, mineral development, connecting communities and energy projects.

Plans for the Tongass follow a decision by the Biden administration to suspend oil and gas leases in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. A 2017 tax-cut law passed by congressional Republicans called for two lease sales to be held in the refuge. A January lease sale in the refuge drew a tepid response.

In an action that angered environmentalists, the Biden administration has defended a Trump-era decision to approve a major oil project on Alaska's North Slope that state leaders have supported.

More than 9 million of the Tongass' roughly 16.7 million acres are considered roadless areas, according to a federal environmental review last year. The majority of the Tongass is in a natural condition, and the forest is one of the largest relatively intact temperate rainforests in the world, the review said.

Explore further In Alaska forest, Reagan biographer sees a winning GOP strategy

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

The business world is familiar with Peter Drucker's assertion that "If you can't measure it, you can't improve it." For the sake of environmental sustainability and food security, there is an urgent need for agriculture to improve its use of nitrogen fertilizers, but can we properly measure it?

A new paper published in Nature Food offers the first comprehensive comparison of the most advanced international efforts to measure how nitrogen is managed in agriculture. Zhang et al synthesize results from nearly thirty researchers from ten different research groups across the world, including universities, private sector fertilizer associations, and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). They each estimated how much nitrogen is added to croplands as fertilizer and manure, how much of the added nitrogen is harvested in crops, and how much is left over as potential environmental pollution.

"This intercomparison project enables researchers, agronomists, and policy makers to identify where we can improve nitrogen budget estimates," said lead author, Associate Professor Xin Zhang of the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science. "This knowledge is the basis for improving sustainable nitrogen management and for addressing food security and environmental pollution challenges."

Nitrogen matters because it is essential for farmers to obtain good crop yields, but when a large fraction of it is not taken up by the intended crops, it leaks into the environment as nitrate in groundwater, rivers, lakes, and estuaries, where it contributes to noxious and harmful algal blooms and can pose human health risks. Excess nitrogen can also be lost from croplands as gaseous pollutants that pose respiratory human health risks and contribute to climate change and stratospheric ozone destruction. Hence, nitrogen needs to be managed carefully to maximize food production but minimize environmental pollution.

''Learning how to monitor nitrogen use in agriculture is a fundamental component of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda," said coauthor Dr. Francesco Tubiello of the FAO in Italy. "This study supports the development of improved national statistics that can be used to this end.''

"At first blush, this new study demonstrated some surprising and troubling differences among the ten research groups, suggesting that our ability to measure, and thus manage this essential nutrient and potent pollutant is not as good as it needs to be," said Eric Davidson, Professor at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science. "Digging into the data more deeply, however, many of these differences were explained by varying definitions and methods used by the different groups."

There is widespread agreement among these experts that use of nitrogen fertilizers in still growing, the average global efficiency of their use is stagnant, and so the surplus nitrogen that is not taken up by crops is also growing at a troubling rate. The types of crops and the geographic regions where improvements in measurement were also identified, thus facilitating needed improvements in both measurements and management.

"The United Nations Environment Programme adopted a resolution in 2019 calling for a global action to promote sustainable nitrogen management," noted contributing author Dr. Luis Lassaletta of Universidad Politecnica de Madrid. "Cutting nitrogen waste in half by 2030 would be an ambitious goal that would significantly improve environmental quality," he added.

The first step to action, however, is to obtain good estimates of nitrogen budgets in agricultural systems, as demonstrated in this study, so that we can better manage what we are able to measure with greater confidence.

"Quantification of global and national nitrogen budgets for crop production" was published in Nature Food on July 15.

Explore further Standardizing efficiency estimates for crop nitrogen use

More information: Quantification of global and national nitrogen budgets for crop production, Nature Food (2021). www.nature.com/articles/s43016-021-00318-5 Journal information: Nature Food Quantification of global and national nitrogen budgets for crop production,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s43016-021-00318-5
The psychological toll of losing a job due to COVID-19 caused many young hotel and restaurant workers to consider changing careers, according to a Washington State University study.

In the study, the laid-off and fully furloughed hospitality employees reported being financially strained, depressed, socially isolated and panic stricken over the pandemic's effects, leading to increased intention to leave the industry all together. The intention to leave was particularly strong among women and younger workers.

"It's a warning sign for my industry that the younger generation was really hit hard," said Chun-Chu Chen, an assistant professor in WSU's School of Hospitality Business Management and lead author on the study in the International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management. "We've already witnessed that as the hospitality business is recovering and trying to hire more people, they cannot find the workers they want. There are many factors for that, but one may be that because of the pandemic, people think that hospitality is no longer an industry they want to work for."

Chen added that previous research has indicated that younger workers may not have as strong of a career identity as more experienced employees, making it easier for them to change careers.

Unemployment in the hospitality industry reached 37.3% in April 2020 after many lockdown measures were put in place, according to U.S. Labor Statistics. Chen heard about the impact directly from his own hospitality students who had lost jobs and decided to find out more about how other lodging and food service employees were faring during the pandemic.

For this study, Chen and coauthor WSU Professor Ming Hsiang Chen surveyed more than 600 laid-off and fully furloughed hospitality workers in June 2020. While all the workers in the study had no income at the time, furloughed workers reported somewhat less distress than those who were laid-off, a difference the authors said employers should note for the future.

"Being furloughed is not good, but it's a little bit better than being laid-off," said Chen. "One possible explanation is that if you are furloughed, you are technically still part of the organization, so you still have a sense of community, of belonging."

That feeling of being connected is important in a profession that tends to attract people who are very social, Chen said. In fact, the researchers found that social isolation was the most important factor predicting wellbeing for these workers. But it was financial strain and the perceived impact of the pandemic that predicted whether the workers were considering a career change.

The researchers found one protecting factor for unemployed or furloughed workers' wellbeing: self-efficacy, or the belief that they had personal control over their own circumstances.

However, when it came to some of Chen's unemployed hospitality students, that sense of personal control may have meant they decided to move on.

"I've seen some of my students actually looking for really good jobs in other service industries," said Chen. "I have mixed feelings about their decisions. Our students are well-equipped to thrive in most positions in the service sector. However, as much more opportunities are available right now, I would encourage them to stay in the hospitality industry."

Explore further Ending furlough will hit older workers hard: How to soften the blow

More information: Chun-Chu (Bamboo) Chen et al, Well-being and career change intention: COVID-19's impact on unemployed and furloughed hospitality workers, International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management (2021). Chun-Chu (Bamboo) Chen et al, Well-being and career change intention: COVID-19's impact on unemployed and furloughed hospitality workers,(2021). DOI: 10.1108/IJCHM-07-2020-0759
A team of researchers created a new method to capture ultrafast atomic motions inside the tiny switches that control the flow of current in electronic circuits. Pictured here are Aditya Sood (left) and Aaron Lindenberg (right). Credit: Greg Stewart/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

Electronic circuits that compute and store information contain millions of tiny switches that control the flow of electric current. A deeper understanding of how these tiny switches work could help researchers push the frontiers of modern computing.

Now scientists have made the first snapshots of atoms moving inside one of those switches as it turns on and off. Among other things, they discovered a short-lived state within the switch that might someday be exploited for faster and more energy-efficient computing devices.

The research team from the Department of Energy's SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Stanford University, Hewlett Packard Labs, Penn State University and Purdue University described their work in a paper published in Science today.

"This research is a breakthrough in ultrafast technology and science," says SLAC scientist and collaborator Xijie Wang. "It marks the first time that researchers used ultrafast electron diffraction, which can detect tiny atomic movements in a material by scattering a powerful beam of electrons off a sample, to observe an electronic device as it operates."

Capturing the cycle

For this experiment, the team custom-designed miniature electronic switches made of vanadium dioxide, a prototypical quantum material whose ability to change back and forth between insulating and electrically conducting states near room temperature could be harnessed as a switch for future computing. The material also has applications in brain-inspired computing because of its ability to create electronic pulses that mimic the neural impulses fired in the human brain.

Lead researcher Aditya Sood discusses new research which could lead to a better understanding of how the tiny switches inside electronic circuits work. Credit: Olivier Bonin/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

The researchers used electrical pulses to toggle these switches back and forth between the insulating and conducting states while taking snapshots that showed subtle changes in the arrangement of their atoms over billionths of a second. Those snapshots, taken with SLAC's ultrafast electron diffraction camera, MeV-UED, were strung together to create a molecular movie of the atomic motions.

"This ultrafast camera can actually look inside a material and take snapshots of how its atoms move in response to a sharp pulse of electrical excitation," said collaborator Aaron Lindenberg, an investigator with the Stanford Institute for Materials and Energy Sciences (SIMES) at SLAC and a professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Stanford University. "At the same time, it also measures how the electronic properties of that material change over time."

With this camera, the team discovered a new, intermediate state within the material. It is created when the material responds to an electric pulse by switching from the insulating to the conducting state.

"The insulating and conducting states have slightly different atomic arrangements, and it usually takes energy to go from one to the other," said SLAC scientist and collaborator Xiaozhe Shen. "But when the transition takes place through this intermediate state, the switch can take place without any changes to the atomic arrangement."

The team used electrical pulses, shown here in blue, to turn their custom-made switches on and off several times. They timed these electrical pulses to arrive just before the electron pulses produced by SLAC's ultrafast electron diffraction source MeV-UED, which captured the atomic motions happening inside these switches as they turned on and off. Credit: Greg Stewart/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

Opening a window on atomic motion

Although the intermediate state exists for only a few millionths of a second, it is stabilized by defects in the material.

To follow up on this research, the team is investigating how to engineer these defects in materials to make this new state more stable and longer lasting. This will allow them to make devices in which electronic switching can occur without any atomic motion, which would operate faster and require less energy.

"The results demonstrate the robustness of the electrical switching over millions of cycles and identify possible limits to the switching speeds of such devices," said collaborator Shriram Ramanathan, a professor at Purdue. "The research provides invaluable data on microscopic phenomena that occur during device operations, which is crucial for designing circuit models in the future."

The research also offers a new way of synthesizing materials that do not exist under natural conditions, allowing scientists to observe them on ultrafast timescales and then potentially tune their properties.

"This method gives us a new way of watching devices as they function, opening a window to look at how the atoms move," said lead author and SIMES researcher Aditya Sood. "It is exciting to bring together ideas from the traditionally distinct fields of electrical engineering and ultrafast science. Our approach will enable the creation of next-generation electronic devices that can meet the world's growing needs for data-intensive, intelligent computing."

Explore further New way of switching exotic properties on and off in topological material

More information: "Universal phase dynamics in VO2 switches revealed by ultrafast operando diffraction" Science (2021). Journal information: Science "Universal phase dynamics in VO2 switches revealed by ultrafast operando diffraction"(2021). science.sciencemag.org/cgi/doi  1126/science.abc0652
The bluntnose sixgill shark (Hexanchus griseus) is, together with the blue shark (Prionace glauca), the only medium-sized shark which is still relatively abundant in the Costa Brava and is returned to the sea. Credit: Ignasi Nuez /SUBMON

Some shark species, such as the basing shark and the spiny dogfish, are in populational decline in the Costa Brava, and even blackspotted smooth-hounds can have disappeared due to the fishing pressure of this marine region in the Catalan coasts. The coincidence of fishing areas with the distributional natural habitat of the sharks worsens the risk of bycatches of sharks by the fisheries.

These conclusions result from an article on the state of the pelagic shark populations in Costa Brava published in the journal Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems by Ignasi Nuez and Manel Gazo, researchers at the Faculty of Biology, the Biodiversity Research Institute (IRBio) and the entity SUBMON, together with Lluis Cardona, from the Faculty of Biology and IRBio of the University of Barcelona.

Sharks, the great unknown of the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean is a marine region with a high biodiversity of sharks cataloged as vulnerable species by the IUCN, such as the case of the basing shark. The ongoing decline of sharks in the Mediterranean coasts has been described for years in the scientific bibliography.

The vital strategy of these cartilaginous fish (Chondrichthyes) is characterized by a late sexual maturity and low rates of growth and fecundity, "conditions that make it harder for them to tolerate an intense fishing activity, and which makes them more vulnerable than ray-finned fish (teleosteans)," says lecturer Lluis Cardona, member of the Department of Evolutionary Biology, Ecology and Environmental Sciences (BEECA) and IRBio.

The improvement of fishing technology "enabled us to understand fishing in more areas, deeper areas and for a longer time. This interaction with the fishing sector has limited the survival of shark populations, be it target species or bycatches," says Manel Gazo, lecturer at the Department of BEECA and IRBio and director of SUBMON.

Have smooth hounds disappeared in Costa Brava?

As part of the study, the team analyzed the recorded bycatches by trawlers and longline fishing boats in the fishing harbors of Costa Brava. In particular, they found information on five species of large-sized sharks (more than 200 centimeters): the common tresher (Alopias vulpinus), the basing shark (Cetorhinus maximus), the bluntnose sixgill shark (Hexanchus griseus), the shortfin mako shark (Isurus oxyrinchus), and the blue shark (Prionace glauca), apart from three medium-sized species (90-100 centimeters), like the school shark (Galeorhinus galeus), the spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias), and the smooth-hounds (Mustelus spp).

The results of the study, which cover the period from October 2016 to July 2017, confirm the lack of smooth-hounds (Mustelus spp) captures, "which suggests that the disappearance of this genus in the Costa Brava, may be due to fishing pressure. In addition, the populations of species such as the basing shark and the spiny dogfish are in decline," says Ignasi Nuez, the first author of the article.

"If we consider all sampled fishing gears, the diversity of species that are accidentally captured is the highest in pair-trawling, followed by bottom longline fishing and last, by surface longline fishing. However, the incidence of each fishing gear is not the same for all species. Bycatches of basing sharks, for instance, take place almost exclusively with trawlers, while the great part of bycatches of blue sharks, shortfin mako sharks, or the common threshers take place in longline gears."

Although bycatches take place over the year with a similar frequency, the highest number of bycatches is correlated to the warm months of the year (from May to October), when the water column is stratified.

"According to the fishermen, the coincidence of the fishing areas with those areas where the sharks are distributed, together with the belief that fishing attracts sharks, are the main responsible factors for bycatches," says Ignasi Nuez.

Science and fisheries: Collaboration to protect sharks

The study highlights the local ecological knowledge brought by the fishing sector as an essential element in the methodology of this work. "Counting on the fishing sector's will to collaborate has been key when carrying on with the study. The current knowledge and the past one of the presence of different species of sharks in our coasts, as well as the areas, periods and used gears to fish, can only come from the fishing sector," notes Manel Gazo.

"We have not found a good way to avoid shark bycatches, apart from the application of policies and modifications in fishing gears," he continues. "What is clear is that the solutiononce we find ithas to come up bearing the fishing sector in mind."

Promoting training for fishermen on manipulation techniques and release of sharks that get trapped in fishing gears, or adding reduction mechanisms on bycatches can be options to mitigate the mortality of sharks caused by fisheries. The allocation of protected marine areas would also help to reduce the loss of biodiversity, "but nowadays, we do not have enough information on the space distribution of many shark species. Therefore, this strategy is at the risk of being ineffective," says Ignasi Nuez.

Sharks in the Mediterranean: More science, more protection

Sharks are apical predators in coastal and oceanic ecosystems. Their role is decisive in the control of trophic networks, although there is a great diversity of species and not all of them have the same relevance. However, there is a lack of knowledge on the biology and ecology of sharks in the Mediterranean. "Populations of sharks decreased in the Mediterranean before there was a minimally developed scientific infrastructure to study them. Therefore, when we wanted to study them, there were none," says Lluis Corona. "Therefore, we do not know about their ecological role, but we must thank that, for now, a fish longer than 25cm has no predator in the western Mediterranean except for humans. This was not the case when sharks were more abundant, but we do not know to which extent this was important."

Now, a total of twenty-five species of elasmobranchii (sharks and rays) are protected by a recommendation of the General Fisheries Commission of the Mediterranean (GFCM), a mandatory regulation for all the EU Mediterranean countries by transposing the regulations to member states.

"The regulation framework exists. What we need to improve is its implementation in order to reach a proper application of the regulation. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the training of the fishing sector and the inspectors in matter of the current regulation and the protected species," says Manel Gazo. "In the Mediterranean region, there are not only fishing fleets of the EU countries, this is why we need to support the other countries that have no infrastructures or real control on the fishing activity."

Explore further Mediterranean sharks risk 'disappearing': conservationists

More information: Ignasi Nuez et al, A closer look at the bycatch of mediumsized and large sharks in the northern Catalan coast (northwestern Mediterranean Sea): Evidence of an ongoing decline?, Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems (2021). Ignasi Nuez et al, A closer look at the bycatch of mediumsized and large sharks in the northern Catalan coast (northwestern Mediterranean Sea): Evidence of an ongoing decline?,(2021). DOI: 10.1002/aqc.3651
Smoke fills the air near the Bootleg Fire, Tuesday, July 13, 2021, near Sprague River, Ore. Credit: AP Photo/Nathan Howard

A blaze that erupted near the flashpoint of the deadliest wildfire in recent U.S. history was heading away from homes on Thursday but survivors of the 2018 blaze in the town of Paradise worried that history could repeat itself.

The Dixie Fire had burned 3.5 square miles (9 square kilometers) of brush and timber near the Feather River Canyon area of Butte County and moved into national forest land in neighboring Plumas County.

There was zero containment, however, and officials kept in place a warning for residents of the tiny communities of Pulga and east Concow to be ready to leave.

In its early hours, the fire raced along steep and hard-to-reach terrain about 10 miles (16 kilometers) from Paradise, the foothill town that was virtually incinerated by the Camp Fire that killed 85 people.

Larry Peterson, whose home in neighboring Magalia survived the previous blaze, said some of his neighbors were getting their belongings together in case they had to flee.

"Anytime you've got a fire after what we went through, and another one is coming up, you've got to be concerned," he told KHSL-TV.

Other locals stocked up on water and other items.

"We pretty much left with our clothes on our backs" during the previous fire, said Jennifer Younie of Paradise. "So this time we are looking to be more prepared and more vigilant."

Beverly Houdyshell, 79, who's home burned down, sits at her granddaughter's house in Doyle, Calif. on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. Houdyshell, said Tuesday that she's too old and too poor to rebuild and isn't sure what her future holds. "What chance do I have to build another house, to have another home?" Houdyshell said. "No chance at all." Damage was still being tallied in the rural community of Doyle, Calif., where flames swept in during the weekend and destroyed several homes, including Houdyshell's. Credit: AP Photo/Haven Daley, File

Joyce Mclean's home burned last time but she has rebuilt it and will again if necessary, she told the station.

"We just take each day as it comes and if it happens, it happens," Mclean said. "There's not much that we can do about it."

Ironically, the blackened scar of the previous blaze was standing between the fire and homes.

"Everything's pretty much burned between them and the fire," Butte County Supervisor Bill Connelly told the Sacramento Bee. "Some bushes and grass have grown back, but it's probably not a direct threat at this time."

The blaze is one of nearly 70 active wildfires that have destroyed homes and burned through about 1,562 square miles (4,047 square kilometers)a combined area larger than Rhode Islandin a dozen mostly Western states, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

Operations Section Chief Bert Thayer examines a map of the Bootleg Fire, Tuesday, July 13, 2021, in Chiloquin, Ore. Credit: AP Photo/Nathan Howard

In southern Oregon the Bootleg Fire, the largest wildfire currently burning in the U.S., covered more than 355 square miles (919 square kilometers) early Thursday after a day of extreme behavior and explosive growth. Twenty-one homes have been destroyed and another 1,900 remained threatened in the Fremont-Winema National Forest area just north of California that's been gripped by a historic drought.

"This fire is going to continue to growthe extremely dry vegetation and weather are not in our favor," Joe Hessel, an incident commander, said in a statement.

The nearby Log Fire, which originated as three tiny fires on Monday, ballooned to more than 7.5 square miles (19 square kilometers) as winds pushed the flames eastward through wilderness.

Tim and Dee McCarley could see trees exploding into flames in their rearview mirror as they fled the fire last week at the last minute. They had put off their departure to pack more belongings and search for their missing cat.

Veterinarian Tawnia Shaw, with The Happy Pet Vet team, examines horses that had been left during a Level 3 evacuation during the Bootleg Fire, Tuesday, July 13, 2021, near Sprague River, Ore. Credit: AP Photo/Nathan Howard

"The sheriff's department had been there and they said, 'If you don't get out of here now, then you are going to die,'" said Tim McCarley, 67, as he, his wife and stepson rested Wednesday at a shelter at the Klamath County Fairgrounds.

"We were running around like a chicken with its head cut off, throwing stuff into the car. Then we say, 'Okay, that's it  we got to go."

Tim McCarley was allowed to return briefly after the fire had passed over their rural community northwest of Bly. He found his home still standing and their cat inside unharmed. But the flames had crept within 5 feet (1.5 meters) of their house, the heat melting their trailer and storage units until they looked "like a melted beer can," he told The Associated Press in a phone interview.

The National Weather Service tweeted late Wednesday that a "terrifying" satellite image showed gigantic clouds fueled by smoke and hot air had formed over the firea sign that the blaze was so intense it was creating its own weather, with erratic winds and the potential for fire-generated lightning.

Firefighter Gary Robinson, with Pacific Habitat and Fire, eats dinner by headlamp after a 12-hour shift fighting the Bootleg Fire, late Tuesday, July 13, 2021, in Bly, Ore. Credit: AP Photo/Nathan Howard

"Please send positive thoughts and well wishes to the firefighters. ... It's a tough time for them right now," the tweet read.

Extremely dry conditions and heat waves tied to climate change have swept the region, making wildfires harder to fight. Climate change has made the American West much warmer and drier in the past 30 years and will continue to make weather more extreme and wildfires more frequent and destructive.

An extreme heat wave late last month sucked vegetation dry in the Pacific Northwest, where firefighters say they are facing conditions more typical of late summer or fall than early July. The Northwest Interagency Coordination Center moved the region up to the highest alert level Wednesday as dry gusts were expected in some areas and new fires popped up.

In California, the state's largest fire so far this year grew to 156 square miles (404 square kilometers) north of Lake Tahoe near the Nevada state line.

Fire from the Bootleg Fire glows in the distance on Tuesday morning, July, 13, 2021 near Bly, Ore. An army of firefighters is working in hot, dry and windy weather to contain fires chewing through wilderness and burning homes across drought-stricken Western states. A high-pressure system that created the second intense heat wave of the year is weakening Tuesday, but temperatures are forecast to remain above normal on the lines of more than 60 active large fires. Credit: AP Photo/Nathan Howard

The Bootleg Fire smoke plume grows over a single tree on Monday, July, 12, 2021 near Bly, Ore. An army of firefighters is working in hot, dry and windy weather to contain fires chewing through wilderness and burning homes across drought-stricken Western states. A high-pressure system that created the second intense heat wave of the year is weakening Tuesday, but temperatures are forecast to remain above normal on the lines of more than 60 active large fires. Credit: AP Photo/Nathan Howard

Smoke fills the air near the Bootleg Fire, Tuesday, July 13, 2021, near Sprague River, Ore. Credit: AP Photo/Nathan Howard

Beverly Houdyshell, 79, who's home burned down sits at her granddaughter's house in Doyle, Calif. on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. Houdyshell, said Tuesday that she's too old and too poor to rebuild and isn't sure what her future holds. "What chance do I have to build another house, to have another home?" Houdyshell said. "No chance at all." Damage was still being tallied in the rural community of Doyle, Calif., where flames swept in during the weekend and destroyed several homes, including Houdyshell's. Credit: AP Photo/Haven Daley, File

Kim Berge, left, holds her kitten River for an examination by veterinarian Tawnia Shaw after evacuating to a Red Cross shelter near the Bootleg Fire on Tuesday, July, 13, 2021 in Klamath Falls, Ore. A high-pressure system that created the second intense heat wave of the year is weakening Tuesday, but temperatures are forecast to remain above normal on the lines of more than 60 active large fires. Credit: AP Photo/Nathan Howard

Art Garcia and his dog Shiro rest after evacuating to a Red Cross shelter near the Bootleg Fire on Tuesday, July, 13, 2021 in Klamath Falls, Ore. A high-pressure system that created the second intense heat wave of the year is weakening Tuesday, but temperatures are forecast to remain above normal on the lines of more than 60 active large fires. Credit: AP Photo/Nathan Howard

Firefighters from Oregon and other nationwide agencies meet at Chiloquin High School before heading toward the Bootleg Fire, Tuesday, July 13, 2021, in Chiloquin, Ore. Credit: AP Photo/Nathan Howard

Tim McCarley talks about their evacuation from the Bootleg Fire while at a Red Cross center on Wednesday, July 14, 2021 in Klamath Falls, Ore. Credit: AP Photo/Nathan Howard

Dee McCarley hugs her cat Bunny, whom she took with her while evacuating from the Bootleg Fire, while at a Red Cross center on Wednesday, July 14, 2021 in Klamath Falls, Ore. Credit: AP Photo/Nathan Howard

The Beckwourth Complex, a merging of two lightning-caused blazes, was 68% contained but new evacuations were ordered on the north side as winds carried embers ahead of the fire, Plumas National Forest officials said Thursday morning.

The fire "has been creating its own independent weather patterns as the day progresses," a statement said.

A wildfire threatening more than 1,500 homes near Wenatchee, Washington, grew to 14 square miles (36 square kilometers) by Thursday morning and was about 10% contained, the Washington state Department of Natural Resources said.

About 200 firefighters were battling the Red Apple Fire near the north-central Washington city renowned for its apples. The fire was also threatening apple orchards and an electrical substation, but no structures have been lost, officials said.

Explore further Wildfires torch homes, land across 10 states in US West

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Plasma rockets could help us humans get to Mars. Credit: NASA

Faster space maneuvers and safer, more sustainable, propellants may soon be possible thanks to a new three-year partnership between The Australian National University and French propulsion company ThrustMe.

Led by the ANU Research School of Physics, the joint research program will explore how electrothermal plasmas can help advance space propulsion technology.

ANU researcher Associate Professor Cormac Corr said, "I am delighted to be able to collaborate with this vibrant new space company, enabling Australia to rapidly strengthen capability and expertise in space-related research.

"Through our combined expertise we have the know-how to push the boundaries of plasma technology into new industries."

The novel tech also comes in handy on Earth, and Associate Professor Corr is currently studying the ground-based use of electrothermal plasmas in industrial material processing and waste gas disposal applications.

Principal engineer at ThrustMe, Trevor Lafleur, said a key part of the research program would examine alternative propellants for electrothermal plasma technologysuch as water, carbon dioxide and nitrogen.

"We are very happy to be able to work with a world-class institution like ANU on this exciting project. Leveraging our combined plasma physics and space expertise will help to develop innovative new plasma systems to meet emerging space-based, and ground-based, market needs."

ThrustMe is a pioneer in alternative propellants, and recently made history with the world's first in-orbit demonstration of an iodine-fuelled propulsion system based on electrostatic plasma technology.

"The right propellant is important not just for performance, but also for factors related to safety and sustainability," said Ashley Pascale, an ANU Ph.D. student working on the new project.

"My research into electrothermal plasmas at the ANU School of Physics in collaboration with ThrustMe will potentially have many interesting applications including satellite constellation deployment, rapid collision avoidance and even the simulation of space environments here on Earth to test satellite components and materials"

The ANU thruster plume in action. Credit: ANU

This partnership comes at an exciting time for Australia's space development.

ThrustMe's CEO and founder Ane Aanesland, a former ANU postdoctoral fellow said: "Australia is quickly emerging as a space nation with a flourishing ecosystem of new space companies and an excellent research infrastructure.

"We already have a foot on the ground, and our collaboration with the ANU is a first step in expanding into the Asia-Pacific region and helping to contribute to the rapidly growing Australian space industry."

Explore further Iodine thruster could slow space junk accumulation
Biden has held out the new monthly payments, which will average $423 per family, as the key to halving child poverty rates. But he is also setting up a broader philosophical battle about the role of government and the responsibilities of parents.

Democrats see this as a landmark program along the same lines as Social Security, saying it will lead to better outcomes in adulthood that will help economic growth. But many Republicans warn that the payments will discourage parents from working and ultimately feed into long-term poverty.

Some 15 million households will now receive the full credit. The monthly payments amount to $300 for each child who is 5 and younger and $250 for those between 5 and 17. The payments are set to lapse after a year, but Biden is pushing to extend them through at least 2025.

The president ultimately would like to make the payments permanent  and that makes this first round of payments a test as to whether the government can improve the lives of families.

Biden invited beneficiaries to the White House to mark the first round of payments, saying in a Thursday speech that the day carried a historic resonance because of the boost it will give families across the nation.
HUDSON FALLS  Two men who were thought to be distributing lethal quantities of fentanyl throughout the area are heading to prison.

More than 450 grams of the deadly narcotic have been removed from the street, according to a news release from the Washington County District Attorneys Office.

Kassun Brown pleaded guilty in Washington County Court on Wednesday to a felony count of possession with intent to sell.

Brown was arrested on Dec. 11 after police found over 400 grams of fentanyl. Police also seized a kilo-press, which is used to cut and package the drug for resale and a money counter.

Brown, who has previous residences of Queens and Schenectady, is expected to receive 12  years in prison when sentenced on Aug. 13.

Also arrested in December was Michael Williams, aka Menace, who had 40 grams of the drug. Williams previous addresses include Hudson Falls, Glens Falls and Queensbury.

He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 29 and faces up to 8 years in state prison.

Washington County District Attorney Tony Jordan said it is a significant amount of fentanyl, which is 100 times more potent than heroin.
If you go back to last year, the Republicans wanted to wind it down at the end of the year, Stefanik said. That was punted and included in a partisan package that House Democrats passed to continue to extend it. They may very well extend it again.

Jeff Mead, general manager of Cool Insuring Arena in Glens Falls, said if the benefits are extended, it would spell trouble for the arena, which was forced to furlough its staff at the onset of the pandemic.

When you mention that the extra unemployment may be continue past September, thats certainly concerning for us because we ramp up right after Labor Day, he said. We really have no employees right now that can operate our events and food and beverage.

Mead added if the arena is unable to operate, the impacts would be felt throughout the Glens Falls region because arena events bring scores of people into the downtown area.

Other businesses said theyve struggled to offer competitive raises and are concerned about losing their current workers to higher-paying jobs.
The conference gathers many of Afghanistans neighbors, including Pakistan, Iran, Russia, China, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Several of them have been accused of backing factions inside Afghanistan and fomenting violence for their own gains. They also have concerns about militant groups inside Afghanistan that threaten them, like the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan and the Islamic State group. The Taliban are seen by many, including the U.S., as useful bulwarks against those groups.

In Tashkent, Afghanistans President Ashraf Ghani is expected to meet Pakistans Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines. At the same time, Pakistan will be hosting a meeting in Islamabad with the Afghan political leadership, apparently aiming to heal regional rifts. That meeting may begin as early as Friday.

The relationship between the two countries is fraught with suspicion and heated mutual accusations.

Ghani has accused Islamabad of fomenting violence in Afghanistan because the Taliban leadership is headquartered in Pakistan. The Taliban also often use Afghan refugee camps in Pakistan for rest and relaxation. Many Taliban leaders also have their families in Pakistans key cities of Karachi on the Arabia Sea and Quetta in southwestern Baluchistan province, where the insurgent movement also brings its wounded for treatment.
An obscure New York law prohibited barbers from performing their duties on Sundays.

Until now.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Tuesday signed legislation to repeal the section of New Yorks business law that made it illegal for barbers to engage in shaving, hair cutting or other work of a barber on the first day of the week.

Barbering on Sunday was considered a misdemeanor. For a first offense, the barber would be fined no more than $5. Repeat offenses would result in fines of between $10 to $25, a jail sentence of 10 to 25 days, or both.

But the law was rarely enforced. State Sen. Joe Griffo and Assemblyman Billy Jones introduced legislation to repeal the language prohibiting barbering on Sundays. It received unanimous support in the state Legislature.

Barbershops and salons, like all small businesses, have faced significant, unprecedented and strenuous challenges during the coronavirus pandemic, said Griffo, a Rome Republican. By removing outdated and unnecessary laws such as this, these businesses will be provided with an additional opportunity to recover financially as we work to rebuild our local and state economies.
TRENTON, N.J. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month.

The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in New Jersey:
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP)  A doctor who worked for New York's corrections system and took issue with a crackdown on prescription drug abuse is suing the agency, saying he was forced to quit and faced harassment for seeking appropriate care for his patients.

At issue is a policy shift the system made five years ago to increase oversight at a time of heightened concern regarding overprescribing painkillers in prisons. Some critics including the plaintiff, physician Michael Salvana, argue the new restrictions have left patients with conditions from multiple sclerosis to spinal injuries suffering needlessly.

The lawsuit filed last month in federal court in northern New York claims the states corrections agency violated Salvanas rights to speak up against the policy. Salvana said his superiors' inhumane interference in his patients' care caused him to leave his role as facility director in central New York at Walsh Regional Medical Unit in Rome, New York, that has 125 beds for prisoners with complicated medical needs.

It was very depressing, Salvana said in an interview. It's depressing to see these patients and knowing you cannot do anything to change it. Youre fighting a battle that you essentially cant win. It was very depressing and as a result I couldn't watch it anymore."
GALLOWAY TOWNSHIP  Stockton University is planning special exhibits and events, including a virtual Ta-Nehisi Coates guest lecture, throughout the upcoming school year to celebrate the colleges 50th year of educating in South Jersey, officials announced at Wednesdays Board of Trustees meeting.

This is historic, and its pretty exciting, said President Harvey Kesselman, adding it was particularly meaningful for him as a member of the inaugural class at Stockton.

Stockton State College opened for classes to a group of 1,000 students in September 1971 at the Mayflower Hotel in Atlantic City while construction was being completed on the Galloway Township campus.

The college has grown tenfold since then, serving nearly 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students and more than 60,000 alumni.

A 50th anniversary website, stockton.edu/50, has been set up for alumni and students to reminisce and learn more about Stocktons history.

+8 Building Stockton's legacy: Kesselman reflects on five years Five and a half years ago, Harvey Kesselman was ready to say goodbye to the university where

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This year, due to the pandemic, the students took their pledge in a virtual ceremony Tuesday and received their pin the following day.

Chantina Portes, 39, of Galloway Township, was happy to be heading on to the next chapter in her career. Inspired by her son, who is autistic, Portes said she wants to work with developmentally disabled children.

As a working mother, going to school full time was hard, but the pandemic added another level of difficulty because most of her work was online and she needed a quiet place to learn.

I would say my car was my library, my everything. I studied in the car, I ate in the car while I studied, Portes said, joking that she should have bought stock in gasoline. It was rough but, hey, so is life.

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New veterans clinic in Northfield to be ready by 2023 NORTHFIELD  A long-awaited new and larger Atlantic County veterans clinic will be built nea

Northfield resident Paul Venesz, 33, had already gone to college for communications, but after getting laid off from a newspaper job, found his way to the beverage industry. Two years ago, he decided to make a change and follow in the footsteps of his mother, Susan, a retired nurse midwife.

Everyone in the neighborhood would come to her for help if they were hurt or sick. She never had to worry about having a good paying job, Venesz said.
She was my partner in everything, Frances said.

From the moment Franchesca went missing, the family plastered the Atlantic City Boardwalk with missing flyers. They organized rallies. Every Thanksgiving, family and friends go to New Jersey to feed and clothe the needy. Its a way to honor Franchesca during her favorite time of year, to feel close to her in the last place she was seen alive. But it also represents a fading hope that their presence might soften someones heart and unlock the truth.

When Frances comes across news stories about human remains found, a few times near where Franchesca went missing, she calls medical examiners.

She asks: Do they belong to my sister?

On occasion, they have.

A few months after Franchescas foot was found, the family said, her femur was discovered in the same waters.

In 2015, her tibia.

Its so bittersweet, Frances said. I get this sense of joy, like a spiritual joy, that Franchesca is like spiritually cheering me on, Yes girl, yes.

But then she calls her sister Tina, her voice a mix of grief and worry.
The rewards come from the State Department's Rewards for Justice program. It will offer a tips-reporting mechanism on the dark web to protect sources who might identify cyber attackers and/or their locations, and reward payments may include cryptocurrency, the agency said in a statement.

The administration official would not comment on whether the U.S. government had a hand in Tuesday's online disappearance of REvil, the Russian-linked gang responsible for a July 2 supply chain ransomware attack that crippled well over 1,000 organizations globally by targeting Florida-based software provider Kaseya. Ransomware scrambles entire networks of data, which criminals unlock when they get paid.

Cybersecurity experts say REvil may have decided to drop out of sight and rebrand under a new name, as it and several other ransomware gangs have done in the past to try to throw off law enforcement.
All three were to jump simultaneously.

Instead, as the boy jumped, his two classmates swept his legs out from under him with their legs, causing him to fall backward and strike his head on the gym floor.

The boy was knocked unconscious, according to the petition, and his classmates "dragged (him) across the gym floor to the bleachers." They did not tell Kreiter the boy was injured.

"Rather than alert Defendant Eugene Kreiter, or any other adult, of Plaintiff's serious condition, (the) Defendants ... stood in front of (the boy), blocking him from view" of the teacher.

The North Scott case is not the first of its kind. Children have been seriously injured in at least three other states while taking part in the so-called "skull-breaker challenge," which has been popular on the social-media app, TikTok.

Capturing the results on a cell phone is the goal as participants do as they did to the North Scott boy  sweeping their victims' legs out from under them as they land from a jump.

Prosecutors in New Jersey charged two minors with aggravated assault after a victim who was tricked into the challenge suffered a head injury, including a concussion and seizure.
Rock Island-Milan School Board members green-lit more than $1.5 million in bids for the new administration center, warehouse and production kitchen in a special meeting Wednesday. Administrators said they would get started placing orders for the project this week.

Board members voted unanimously to approve low base bids for three contracts for the project. A $667,578 contract was awarded to Treiber Construction for building concrete and a $670,246 contract was awarded to Bush Construction for pre-engineered metal building materials (PEMB). A third contract for $213,140 was awarded to K&V Steel Erectors for erection of the building.

The work, funded through district reserves and bond sales proceeds, is scheduled to begin this summer.

Chief Financial Officer Bob Beckwith said the project was being bid in phases because of the long lead times required for the delivery of some of the materials. This first phase includes the building concrete, the pre-engineered metal structure and the erection of the building.

According to district documents, the project is under estimated budgets by $113,836.

Beckwith said he expected to return to the board in late August with bids for all the other needed trades, furnishings and all of the finish work for the project.
The Rock Island Arsenal stands to benefit from millions of dollars included in the Defense Appropriations bill for fiscal year 2022.

U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos, D-Moline, announced a total of $58 million is included in the bill that would bolster manufacturing at the Rock Island Arsenal's Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center (JMTC). Bustos is a member of the House Appropriations Committee, the committee that authorizes government spending.

"The Rock Island Arsenal and Air National Guards 182nd Airlift Wing play key roles in our nations defense and possess unique capabilities to support the mission readiness of our military," Bustos said in a news release Tuesday. "These critical funding bills invest in their skills and expertise to ensure our nations defense technologies are state-of-the-art and our service members are well-equipped to carry out their duties. Ill continue to be a strong voice for our men and women in uniform and the world-class workforce behind them that help drive our local economy."
PHOENIX (AP)  Arizona's largest county approved nearly $3 million Wednesday for new vote-counting machines to replace those used in the 2020 election, which were given to legislative Republicans for a partisan review of the results.

The GOP-controlled Maricopa County Board of Supervisors said the machines were compromised because they were in the control of firms not accredited to handle election equipment. Secretary of State Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, had said she would seek to decertify the machines if the county planned to use them again.

State Senate Republicans used their subpoena power to take control of Maricopa County's voting machines after former President Donald Trump claimed without evidence that the 2020 election was rigged against him in Arizona and other battleground states.

The Senate hired Cyber Ninjas, a small cybersecurity consulting firm led by a Trump supporter who has spread conspiracy theories backing Trump's false claims of fraud, to recount all 2.1 million ballots and forensically review voting machines, servers and other data. The firm had no prior experience in elections, and experts in election administration say it's not following reliable procedures.
Our hearts our broken that people on the trip lost somebody, people at home lost somebody, he said. That matters more than anything else.

A park helicopter took two paramedics to the river late Wednesday to treat and stabilize the injured rafters after receiving a satellite phone call from someone on the trip asking for help. Seven passengers who were injured were airlifted out of the canyon, Baird said. She wasn't sure of the extent of their injuries.

Baird said the park will help the other rafters who want to cut their trip short get off the river, she said.

The flood hit the camp set up about 40 miles (64 kilometers) downstream from where the rafts launched at Lees Ferry near the Arizona-Utah state line, turning the normally greenish-colored river into a muddy brown. Forecasters had issued a flash flood watch for the area Wednesday, but it's not clear whether the rafting guides were aware.

Radar showed about an inch (2.5 centimeters) of rain along that stretch of the Colorado River, according to the National Weather Service.

Park officials did not immediately release the name of the rafter who died. At least two other people have died this year on Grand Canyon rafting trips that draw tens of thousands of tourists, locals and researchers annually.
Paula Teel, a Bettendorf resident, told city council on Tuesday that she moved to Iowa from Illinois looking for a place she could see nature and wildlife.

We have a wooded ravine behind us. It's like we're living in the country in the middle of the city, she said. It is about a quality of life issue for the people that live in this area. And I hope that that's taken into consideration.

Dolan said they didnt have a plan for moving wildlife, but that he hoped to keep as many trees as possible on the Davenport side that already exists.

A main concern several residents brought up was the added traffic with 26 more homes going through the Lincoln Road entrance to the cul-de-sac. Coming off Kimberly Road, Lincoln Road  which is an outlet for other neighborhoods  has two sharp turns before the Kimberley Road intersection that residents said were difficult to maneuver in without an additional outlet. One resident said he had to pull over to let another car pass if there was a parked car on it.
Fields collected Ross' original works. The prolific artist didn't sell his work, but some were donated to PBS stations, according to a New York Times profile. They rarely come on the commercial market.

These pieces are so valuable, and hopefully are passed down through the family, Craig said.

Ross inscribed a message on the back of one of the paintings Chris owns. It reads No one could ever be more proud of a namesake than I am of you. I wish for you a future filled with success and happiness. God bless my friend  Bob Ross 1993.

Their collection includes four paintings, a set of carved figures and two painted platters.

We know everything is original artwork. We hope to get them authenticated, Chris said.

That authentication has to be done in person, at Bob Ross, Inc., in Virginia. So this summer, the family plans to take a road trip. It's important to them to keep the paintings safe and have the art on record.

To our family, these paintings are priceless. Bob Ross art cant even be bought, so these are even more special to us, Fields said.
Several organizations and school districts in the Illinois Quad-Cities are in line to receive hundreds of thousands of federal dollars to support Head Start programs.

According to a news release from Illinois Democratic U.S. Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, $21.9 million from the American Rescue Plan, signed into law by the president in March, will go to Illinois Head Start programs.

The funding is aimed to "support the return to fully operational, in-person Head Start services for the children under the age of 5 most impacted by inequities exposed by the pandemic in Illinois," according to the release.

The $1.9 trillion stimulus package included $1 billion to expand Head Start programs across the country.

These entities in western Illinois will receive funding, according to the release.
State Rep. Tony McCombie, R-Savanna, is considering a bid for state Senate District 37 after the remapping of state House districts would force her to face a fellow Republican in the 2022 primaries.

McCombie is serving her third term in the Illinois House. Rather than challenge State Rep. Andrew Chesney, R-Freeport, or State Rep. Tom Demmer, R-Dixon; McCombie said she is exploring the new 37th State Senate District.

If McCombie decides to run in the 37th District, she would likely have to primary freshman State Sen. Win Stoller, R-Germantown Hills, to win election.

"Democrat politicians drew this map behind closed doors and consolidated me with other Republicans, aiming to push me out of office," McCombie said in a news release. "Rather than challenge a House colleague, many community leaders I represent are encouraging me to run to continue to represent them in the state Senate in District 37."

The new boundaries of the 37th Senate District includes portions of Bureau, Henry, LaSalle, Lee, Marshall, Peoria, Putnam, Rock Island, Stark, Whiteside and Woodford counties. If elected, McCombie would have to move from her home in Savanna.
"As the Commission's counsel, I am well aware of the law regarding public records," Lacey wrote. "The discussion involved a draft document that is not a public record. Please refrain from giving legal advice to the Commission, they are not your clients. You have continuously attempted to insert yourself into the affairs of the Commission, despite being repeatedly asked not to do so. I see this as a continuation of a pattern of harassment and it needs to stop."

Hoyt, who did not return a message seeking comment, sent Lacey and the Civil Right Commission an email on June 3 stating she considered Lacey's email a formal denial of her records request.

The next day, she filed a complaint with the Iowa Public Information Board requesting it review and determine the legality of Lacey's and the commission's actions in the "hope this body can require compliance with our request and order remedial training to the Director and the Commission" of Iowa's open meetings and open records laws.

"We regret having to involve IPIB, but we have been otherwise unable to gain compliance," Hoyt wrote, adding Lacey's response to the records request alleging harassment contains "mischaracterizations."

Lacey and the commission have asked the state board to dismiss the complaint for lack of standing.
Following the assassination of Haiti President Jovenel Moise on July 7, concern has increased, both globally and locally.

Friends of the People of Haiti (FOPH), a Moline-based nonprofit, is worried about the effect the assassination will have on its contacts and friends in Haiti.

Its a tragedy, of course; its a sadness, Luann Polissaint, president of the organization, said.

The nondenominational organization partners with St. Annes Catholic parish in Haiti to help build houses, install water purifiers and introduce seed loans for locals, among many other projects, through mission trips.

When she first got the news of the assassination, Polissaint contacted the priest at St. Annes to check on the status of the community and ask what their organization could do to help.

His response back to me was all we can do is pray together, she said.

The three interpreters that FOPH uses during its trips to Haiti live in Port-au-Prince, Jacmel and Gonaives, all in Haiti, and are also concerned about the impact the assassination will have.
For others, the recent attention has spurred fresh conversations. Trujillo talked about her grandmother being taken when she was 6 and telling stories about how she was always so hungry and cold.

Trujillo said while her grandmother made it home, unlike other children, that experience shaped who she was.

Our communities and Indigenous people have known about these atrocities for a very long time, but being able to bring them to light and talk about them  no matter how painful  is part of that process toward healing, said Trujillo, a member of Sandia Pueblo who has been focused on bringing together Indigenous youth to highlight the need for more mental health resources and educational opportunities.

For Diindiisi McCleave, moving forward with healing will require more research, data and understanding.

The biggest part of the work starts with the truth, and that includes not only truth from the federal government in this case and the churches that ran the schools, but hearing the truth from the perspective of the people who experienced it, listening to the testimony of survivors and descendants and understanding the full scope and impact of these experiences," she said.
The culture that weve had in this organization hasnt been one for workers of color, hasnt been one for women, hasnt been one for nonbinary folks, James said.

Matt Smelser, a spokesperson for the Audubon Society, referred to a May statement from the group, which said bullying and other bad behavior won't be tolerated going forward. The organization also continues to search for a permanent CEO and has committed to remaining neutral in the unionization efforts, he added.

Back at Mass Audubon, ONeill says the organizations board has added new members so that 17% of them are people of color. The staff of more than 950 is about 65% white.

Scott Edwards, a Harvard ornithologist who is among the recent additions to the group's board, said the jurys still out on whether these early steps from green organizations are enough. Some will have to re-imagine their mission and pivot more to urban populations, he said.

Organizations will have to think creatively about how to get communities of color more connected with nature, said Edwards, who is Black. Show them that their voices are needed and wanted. Make them feel included in the larger effort of conservation.
Police will be forbidden from using deceptive tactics while interrogating minors under a measure Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed into law Thursday, making Illinois the first state in the nation to ban the practice.

Advocates of the new law say lying or using other means of deception while questioning a young person in police custody can lead to false confessions and ultimately wrongful convictions. Thats what Terrill Swift, who spent nearly 15 years in prison after falsely confessing to a 1994 rape and murder, says happened to him. DNA evidence later tied the crime to a previously convicted murderer and sex offender.

We can all agree that one day in prison wrongfully is too long, Swift, one of the Englewood Four teens who were wrongly convicted of the crime, said during a bill signing at Northwestern Universitys Pritzker School of Law.

The law, which takes effect Jan. 1, bars police from knowingly providing false information about evidence or making unauthorized statements about leniency while questioning those 17 and younger. Any confession made under those circumstances will be inadmissible in court unless prosecutors can prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the confession was voluntarily given.
A roundup of legislative and Capitol news items of interest:

PAY HIKES, STUDIES APPROVED: Members of the Legislative Council on Wednesday approved pay raises of 1.1 percent to cover cost-of-living increases, similar to other state workers, for legislative employees.

The panel also approved eight interim study panels, including five that are statutory committees tracking tax expenditures, fiscal policies, health policy oversight, state government efficiency reviews and the Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS).

The three new interim panels were a Health Insurance Mandate Review Committee, a Regents Universities Study Committee and a Brady-Giglio List Study Committee.

A Giglio or Brady list is a list compiled, usually by a prosecutor's office or a police department, containing the names and details of law enforcement officers who have had sustained incidents of untruthfulness, criminal convictions, candor issues, or some other type of issue placing their credibility into question.
U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst, a combat veteran, on Wednesday criticized President Joe Bidens haphazard withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan, warning it could heighten the risk of future terrorism there as well as in the United States.

Instead of a sound foreign policy decision, the Iowa Republican branded Bidens decision as a clear, callous political message calculated for a front page or prime-time talking point on the 20-year anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

In announcing the withdrawal, Biden said speed is safety, Ernst said during a call with reporters. However, Gen. Scott Miller, who until this week was the top military commander in Afghanistan, painted a much more disastrous picture, saying that the country could soon slide into a violent Civil War.

Biden ordered the withdrawal, saying he doesnt want to sacrifice more American lives. He has pushed back against the notion the U.S. mission has failed even though it is unlikely the Afghan government will control all of the country after the U.S. leaves. The future of the country is in the hands of the Afghan government reaching a peace agreement with the Taliban, which is making rapid advances across the country.
Supporters say the new law clarifies that the inspector generals jurisdiction is limited to complaints that relate directly to lawmakers public duties, but critics, including some legislators who voted for the measure, contend that it puts new limitations on what types of wrongdoing can be investigated.

If Pope were to read about an alleged misdeed by a lawmaker in the newspaper, she wouldnt be able to open an investigation unless someone filed a complaint with her office. Even then, she would only be able to investigate if the allegation directly related to a lawmakers public job.

Pope pointed to the case of former Republican state Rep. Nick Sauer, who resigned from the House in 2018 after being accused of sharing nude photos of an ex-girlfriend online, as something that would now fall outside her jurisdiction.

In her letter, Pope also notes that she would not be able to investigate allegations of tax evasion by a lawmaker if it did not involve his or her legislative salary.

State Rep. Avery Bourne, a Republican from Morrisonville, said during a debate on the House floor that the ethics commission, of which she is a member, provides an appropriate check to prevent unwarranted intrusion into lawmakers private lives.
A two- to three-mile stretch of 250th Street had other minor damage, Showalter said, including damage to outbuildings like grain bins and machine sheds as well as to corn stalks.

"Luckily, we had no injuries whatsoever with all of the damages that we had," he said.

In Bremer County to the east, Pickett said there were no houses destroyed there either, but "a lot of damage reports, way too many to even mention" with regard to the up-and-down tornado through his county. He said the tornado first entered the county from the west, and went across 240th Street to 235th Street.

Half a building was "gone" on 240th Street, while tree limbs fell on homes, outbuildings and cars along that stretch as well as on nearby Fern Avenue, Pickett said.

In the 1700 block of 235th Street, an older man was unable to get out of his home when live power lines went down and tree limbs blocked his lane. Pickett said Alliant Energy and Waverly Fire helped reopen his lane.

Along Grand Avenue south of Highway 3, several evergreen trees were uprooted and houses were at least partially damaged, he said.

A machine shed was destroyed on the Ken and Lorie Henning farm in Shell Rock, and there was damage to the Husky stadium at Oelwein High School.
We know that vaccines are not without side effects, Angarone said. He worries that for people who have autoimmune diseases, extra doses of vaccine could trigger flare-ups of those illnesses. I think when we dont know the benefit, and we know theres potential risk, in my mind, that is a risk I dont think we want to put people under.

The focus should be on inoculating people who have not yet been vaccinated at all, not giving booster shots to those whove already rolled up their sleeves, he said. The makers of all three vaccines say they offer protection against the delta variant though Pfizer has said it plans to ask the U.S. to authorize a booster.

Still, in recent weeks, several prominent health experts made headlines for publicly encouraging people who received Johnson & Johnson to get Moderna and Pfizer shots.

Dr. Vin Gupta, a faculty member at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington and an NBC News analyst, tweeted late last month that people who got Johnson & Johnson should get a Moderna or Pfizer shot as a booster. Most I know who got J&J are doing it and are telling others the same  since two seems better than 1 (regarding) delta, he tweeted.
Other activities include an archeological dig box, activity tables, discovery boxes and a dress-up trunk inside the museum.

The Tri-State Museum and Visitor Center will host additional Hometown Thursday events on July 22 and July 29.

Concert in the Park scheduled for Wednesday

The Belle Fourche Arts Council will host a concert at Herrmann Park at 7 p.m. Wednesday featuring the band "Black Sheep and the Shepherd."

According to a news release, there is no admission charge for the concert, but a free-will offering will be taken. Donations assist the Arts Council to provide the concert series and a scholarship award for a Belle Fourche student.

The Congregational Church will also serve ice cream at the concerts, for a free-will offering.

Some chairs are provided but those who attend are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on, the news release said.

In the event of inclement weather, concerts will be moved to the Belle Fourche Recreation Center. A decision to move the concert is typically made at 6 p.m.

For more information about the Arts Council and the summer concerts, call 605-723-1200.
When Nebraska stopped reporting virus statistics late last month, officials said data on the pandemic will still be available through public records requests, and they said statistics on the virus' spread are available from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But they said the data reported on those sites may differ from what the state had been reporting. And television station KETV reported that its public records request for COVID-19 case and vaccination numbers was denied.

In the weeks since the state stopped providing the figures, Nebraska has seen its cases per week nearly double as the highly contagious delta variant of the virus spreads. CDC figures showed 489 cases last week, up from 456 the week before and 253 cases two weeks earlier.

Nationwide, the average number of new cases doubled over the past three weeks, going from 11,300 a day on June 23 to about 23,600 a day on Monday.

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska has more than doubled over the past two weeks from 43 new cases per day on June 28 to 86.29 new cases per day on Monday, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.
DETROIT (AP)  The Canadian government has rejected a creative plan to have Ontario residents line up inside a U.S. border tunnel to tap into a surplus of COVID-19 vaccine held by Michigan, a mayor said.

A white stripe was painted inside the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel in the Detroit River. Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens proposed that Canadians would stand along the border while health care workers jab them.

Were not trying to send a man to the moon here. Were using the infrastructure to accomplish a shared goal, Dilkens told the Detroit Free Press. This is a sensible, reasonable alternative to vaccines heading to the landfill.

Motor vehicle travel between the countries is prohibited during the pandemic except for commercial truck traffic and workers deemed essential. Dilkens said partnering with Michigan, which has a vaccine surplus, would reduce the waiting time for Canadians who need a second shot.
BERLIN (AP)  Former President George W. Bush criticized the Western withdrawal from Afghanistan in an interview with a German broadcaster released Wednesday, saying he fears that Afghan women and girls will "suffer unspeakable harm."

Asked in an interview with German international broadcaster Deutsche Welle whether the withdrawal is a mistake, Bush replied: "You know, I think it is, yeah, because I think the consequences are going to be unbelievably bad."

The war in Afghanistan began under Bush after the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks on the United States. Washington gave Taliban leader Mullah Omar an ultimatum: hand over al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden and dismantle militant training camps or prepare to be attacked. Omar refused, and a U.S.-led coalition launched an invasion in October.

The withdrawal of U.S. and NATO troops set in motion earlier this year by current President Joe Biden is now nearing completion. Taliban fighters have been surging through district after district, taking control of large swaths of the country.

In the DW interview, which marked outgoing German Chancellor Angela Merkel's final official visit to the U.S., Bush said Merkel had supported the deployment in Afghanistan in part "because she saw the progress that could be made for young girls and women in Afghanistan."
The bill, which takes effect Oct. 12, would also prohibit individuals who don't receive emergency use vaccines from being denied the chance to participate in school activities such as sports.

DeWine signed the legislation just hours after his top medical advisor warned that vaccination trends have led to the development of two Ohios when it comes to combating the coronavirus, increasing vulnerability to the diseases highly contagious delta variant.

A day before signing the bill, the governor said the FDA needs to move coronavirus vaccines from emergency use authorization to full approval as soon as possible. He said the emergency element is leading to vaccine hesitancy in the state.

On Thursday, a DeWine spokesperson said the governor is confident the ban won't be needed for long.

The prohibition was limited to vaccines that do not have full FDA approval, said Dan Tierney. We are confident that these vaccines, proven repeatedly to be very safe and very effective, will be approved by the FDA, thus rendering this issue moot.
Robertson and Fracker were charged after a photograph showed them standing next to a statue of John Stark  a New Hampshire native who served as a general in the American Revolution  while Fracker made an obscene gesture.

Both men were fired from the police department a short time later.

Since then, two more men from Western Virginia have joined a growing list nationwide of people charged with storming the Capitol as Congress met to certify an election won by now-President Joe Biden. A short time earlier, Trump had urged his supporters to fight like hell against an election that he said was rigged against him.

In a motion filed June 30 to have Robertson jailed, prosecutors said a search of his Ferrum home the day before revealed a M4 rifle on a bedroom dresser and a partially assembled pipe bomb in the garage. Federal agents also found that Robertson had ordered 37 more guns online, although they had not been delivered to his home.

Equally troubling, Aloi said, were comments allegedly made by Robertson in an online gun forum on June 10.

I have learned very well that if you dip your toe into the Rubicon  cross it, Robertson wrote, according to court records. Cross it hard and violent and play for all the marbles.
Lands department is using $25 million in emergency funding for employee bonuses that she hopes will be effective Aug. 1, and to bring in out-of-state contract staff to work in the five hospitals where admissions are temporarily halted.

The General Assembly will convene Aug. 2 to determine how to spend $4.3 billion in federal aid to Virginia under the American Rescue Plan Act, the federal stimulus package approved in March in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lawmakers earlier this year made changes to how they oversee mental health. The Joint Subcommittee to Study Mental Health Services in the Commonwealth in the 21st Century, the panel created in 2014 that Land addressed, has come to an end. Its morphed into the Behavioral Health Commission, which will hire an executive director.

Sen. Creigh Deeds, D-Bath, chaired the subcommittee and will also chair the new commission.

Im proud of the things weve done. But we havent done enough. We just havent done enough, Deeds said. Were going to expect more, were going to demand more, and were going to do more.
Court-packing danger

remains a possibility

I am sympathetic toward Mark Norton and Brian Glass for their responses on July 12 and 13 to my July 9 RTD Letter to the Editor, which urged a constitutional amendment for 18-year term limits of U.S. Supreme Court justices. Their letters instead urged, respectively, more drastic term limits for congressional representatives first and then, possibly, for Supreme Court justices.

When my letter was published, I emailed it to Michael W. McConnell, a professor at Stanford Law School, guessing that he might do a better job on the same subject at the national level. He wrote back enclosing his June 30 testimony to President Joe Bidens Presidential Commission on the Supreme Court. As it happens, the outline of the proposal for a constitutional amendment in my letter agrees with McConnells proposal. Some highlights of his testimony below might be of interest.
A construction worker was injured Thursday morning when a pipe failed during a pressure test at the Crystal Spring Tower project site at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital.

A cap detached from the pipe during the test and struck a worker, said Alabama-based firm Robins & Morton, which is managing the construction of the new 10-story, 500,000-square-foot tower addition to the hospital.

Carilion said the incident happened about 11:30 a.m., and both Roanoke Fire-EMS and hospital emergency department staff responded.

The worker was taken to the hospital to be treated for injuries. The persons condition couldnt be immediately confirmed Thursday afternoon.

None of our operations have been interrupted, and the construction is operating normally, read a statement shared by Carilion spokesman Pete Larkin.

Right now, our focus is on helping the injured worker, he added.

Robins & Morton also said its immediate focus was on helping the worker and their family.

The company thanked medical responders for their swift assistance.
CHRISTIANSBURG  Charges from a Blacksburg carjacking that was a postscript to a fatal shooting last November in Salem are headed to a grand jury.

That was the outcome of a brief hearing Thursday in Montgomery County General District Court, where Zane Chandler Christian, 25, of Christiansburg faced charges of carjacking, grand larceny auto theft, and using a gun to commit a felony. After defense attorney Deborah Caldwell-Bono of Roanoke stipulated that there was enough evidence to send the case on, Judge Gino Williams certified the charges to a grand jury  meaning that a grand jury will review the evidence and decide if Christian should be tried in circuit court.

Chief Deputy Commonwealths Attorney Patrick Jensen said the charges linked to the carjacking likely would be heard by a grand jury that meets in October.

In Salem, Christian is scheduled for a three-day jury trial starting Sept. 29 on charges of first-degree murder, two counts of maliciously shooting or throwing an object at a vehicle, two counts of child abuse or neglect, and using a firearm to commit a felony.
A New River Valley Regional Jail officer who died at his Giles County home earlier this month was shot by his wife, according to prosecutors.

Mary Huskey Palmer, 50, of Narrows was arrested Monday in connection with the death of her husband, Sgt. Arthur Woody Woodrow Palmer III, 38. She is charged with second-degree murder and using a gun to commit a felony, and she has a Nov. 15 preliminary hearing scheduled in Giles County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.

Commonwealths Attorney Bobby Lilly said Thursday that investigators think Arthur Palmer was killed at his home on July 3, and that his body was found there on July 5.

Arthur Palmer had a daughter, who is still a minor, from a different relationship, Lilly said.

Lilly declined to discuss other aspects of the couples life or the alleged circumstances of Palmers death, saying the investigation continues.

Defense attorney Fred Kellerman of Christiansburg declined to comment, saying he was just beginning to familiarize himself with the case.
DUBLIN  Unionized Volvo North America workers narrowly approved a new six-year contract with the company Wednesday, less than a week after rejecting the same deal.

The strike will end, with workers returning to their jobs on Sunday and Monday, according to United Auto Workers spokesman Brian Rothenberg. But, there are still issues to be worked out for salaried employees, who voted 54-40 against their part of the contract.

The new contract eliminates the two-tier wage structure, immediately raised wages for some employees, sped up progression to top pay for all employees and guaranteed no health insurance increases over the life of the agreement.

This agreement allows us to continue providing our employees with a great quality of life, with guaranteed wage growth and excellent benefits, said NRV Vice President and General Manager Franky Marchand. It will also help secure the plants long-term growth and sustainability. Our focus now will be on getting trucks to customers as quickly as we can, and strengthening our relationship with our employees.

On Friday, 60% of UAW members taking part voted no on the terms of that tentative agreement, which was struck on July 1. It was the third failed deal since negotiations began this spring.
Youve got murder, youve got escape, and then somewhere down at the bottom you have that you didnt answer your phone calls, Kelleter said.

If he committed that infraction, then well deal with that, the attorney added. But its not an escape, and they know it ... He shouldnt be going back to prison for not answering his phone for one night, when they know he was at home the whole time.

The Bureau of Prisons has not filed a response to Martinovichs petition, and a spokeswoman declined Tuesday to speak about the case, citing the pending case.

Martinovich  the former CEO of MICG Investment Management in Newport News  was convicted at a month-long trial in 2013 of 17 of the 25 financial fraud counts he faced.

Among other things, jurors found that he had schemed behind the scenes to artificially inflate the appraisal of a company held by one of his hedge funds as a way of boosting the performance fees that he and the company garnered.

He later pleaded guilty to using investors money to pay for his trial lawyer, and was sentenced to 13 years and eight months behind bars on the 18 charges.
Since the foundations inception in 1997, donors, sponsors, and grantors have contributed more than $18 million to projects and programs that enhance one of the most visited national park units.

Proceeds from the sale of the North Carolina specialty license plate for the Parkway are a great driver of this philanthropy. These financial contributions led to many successful projects along the Parkway, including structure-saving renovations at historical Humpback Rocks Farm, Johnson Farm, and Polly Woods Ordinary, the creation of the first ADA-compliant trail at Abbott Lake, musical programming at the Blue Ridge Music Center, and reconstruction of the waterwheel and flume at picturesque Mabry Mill.

These projects are possible through coordination between four foundation offices on or near the Parkway in Winston-Salem, Asheville, Galax and Roanoke. Our organization does not have an office inside National Park Service Headquarters as incorrectly stated in the column.
Miller hired the states first Black assistant attorney general  future state legislator and judge Billy Robinson  and the first female one.

(One night when Robinson was traveling through rural Virginia en route to a hearing the next day he was stopped by a police officer who didnt believe Virginia had a Black lawyer in the attorney generals office, which gives you some sense of that era; that prompted an unhappy Miller to issue formal ID cards to all his staff.)

Miller was also the first Virginia attorney general to believe that part of his role included consumer protection  something of a radical notion at the time but one we now routinely see every time an attorney general takes on some kind of fraud or price gouging.

Politically, Miller was a transitional figure  the son of a liberal Democrat who challenged the Byrd Machine then an establishment favorite and later an adviser to and supporter of some Republicans, including Mark Obenshain, the son of the man he defeated for attorney general. Miller may not have changed, the but state certainly changed around him.

Miller came from a family of political dissidents. His father, Francis Pickens Miller was one of the few Democrats in those days who dared to challenge the political machine of U.S. Sen. Harry Byrd Sr. that controlled the state.
However, future measures to help people and businesses are unclear. When India implemented social distancing, the international media reported that people were adversely affected. The question now is on how Vietnam plans to live with the Covid-19 pandemic situation for a long period of time.

Vaccine is key

Many scientists and experts in the medical field have strongly recommended adapting to living with the Covid-19 pandemic situation. However, this can only be possible when a majority of the population has been vaccinated and a threshold of community immunity has been reached. In recent months, developed countries have stepped up on vaccination drives. Singapore and Australia now already have a clearer roadmap to survive and live with the Covid-19 situation.

The difficulty for Vietnam today is lack of better access to the vaccine. In the early stages of the pandemic in the beginning of 2020, effective preventive anti-pandemic measures made us complacent towards prioritizing the importance of the vaccine. The Ministry of Health was slow in reaching out to vaccine producers, far slower than many other countries.

The current amount of vaccines that Vietnam receives are mainly from the COVAX program and the relatively large amount of aid from some countries such as Japan and the United States. Over the last few months, Vietnam has tried diplomacy to improve its vaccine strategy, by reaching out to suppliers and governments of developed countries that have excess vaccine supply, and who could possibly help Vietnam. There has also been a strong move by Vietnam to involve in vaccine production technology to ensure a long-term source of vaccine in the country.

The latest data shows that only 4% of the population, or about 3.9 million people in Vietnam, have completed their first dose of the vaccine, while the number of people who have completed their second dose is only 0.2%. Vietnam's goal is to get 150 million doses of the vaccine, enough for 70% of the population, but current agreements are set at only 105 million doses. However, more important is the time to receive this vaccine and deploy it on a larger scale for all the people.

Social distancing vital

When the rate and number of new infections are predicted to increase beyond the capacity of the health system, there is no other way but to strictly follow social distancing rules. The health system, even in rich and developed countries, does not have enough Intensive Care Unit (ICU) beds to accommodate a sudden increase in the number of patients. Maybe many people don't realize it, but an ICU in France comes with a private room and at least five medical staff. The equipment within an ICU is complicated and not everyone knows how to use all these complicated devices. Therefore, there is no other way than to adopt to maximum social distancing measures. At the same time, with the implementation of social distancing, it is necessary to take into account its consequences and look for more functional solutions.

Currently, it cannot be estimated how much economic damage will occur as a result of implementation of social distancing every single day that passes in Ho Chi Minh City. This loss will affect the lives of many persons, families, and businesses. When France implemented social distancing for two months, it was estimated that the damage during that time was EUR 120 bn, about EUR 2 bn per day. Britain's social distancing in 2020 also averaged about EUR 800 mn per day. In Australia it was about EUR 63 mn per day, in New South Wales about EUR 90 mn per day, and in Malaysia about EUR 150 mn per day.

Perhaps the Ho Chi Minh City government also has a plan to provide support in dire situations on an urgent priority basis. On social network sites we have seen volunteer groups helping in many difficult situations. The spirit of love and compassion in these difficult times has also reawakened in the Vietnamese people.

Even as social distancing is implemented, the reorganization of daily life and essential business and production activities also need to be maintained. The first is to ensure that the circulation and distribution of food is kept to a minimum by ensuring supply, prioritizing home delivery, or ordering in advance to be delivered later. Agencies or businesses also need to maintain a minimum number of employees for important work to be done. Take a simple example such as those who work with paperwork, who can't work online, and have to go to the office to complete their shift, and have to also ensure social distancing among a number of people present at the office. Manufacturing plants can still be maintained if the pandemic prevention measures are strictly followed.

Another important issue that has received little attention in Vietnam is that of mental health. Social distancing on a weekly basis will negatively affect the psychology of people living in big cities because of narrow spaces and lack of greenery. In developed countries, after a period of separation, people have seen an increase in domestic violence, and the psychology of both adults and children is negatively affected. Some countries have education and propaganda programs specifically for children to help them better understand Covid-19, without causing fear or negative emotions.

The implementing of Directive 16 by Ho Chi Minh City authorities at this time is absolutely necessary. It is hoped that the City will quickly recover back to normal and soon stabilize the reorganization of essential services and goods. The relaxation of social distancing can only be done on the strength of the health system, while waiting for the vaccine supply. The budget needs to adjust to overspending in times like this, and if it has to be advanced for the future, this is also perfectly acceptable.

Dr. Vo Dinh Tri
Two women died when their small plane crashed into an empty home in a luxury gated community in the hills of Northern California
FLORENCE, S.C.  David Beasley, the executive director of the World Food Program and a former governor of South Carolina, will address the community and area business leaders at the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerces annual Membership Luncheon.

The World Food Program won the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize.

The luncheon will be held on Thursday, Sept. 9, at the Florence Center.

The Chamber Business Person of the Year, presented by Wells Fargo, will also be announced at the luncheon.

Beasley was the keynote speaker at the Florence Chambers Membership Luncheon in August of 2018, which saw a sellout crowd of more than 500 attendees at the Florence Center.

The last time David addressed our membership, it was to a sold-out crowd, Florence Chamber President Mike Miller said. Mr. Beasley spoke about an hour, and not a soul left the room. The conversation was engaging, informative and entertaining.

We expect him to share his thoughts on the WFP being awarded the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize and offer experiences the WFP faced under the worldwide COVID-19 conditions.

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 Joe Exotic (of "Tiger King" fame) prevails on technical guideline issue to secure resentencing on Tenth Circuit appeal | Main | Federal prison population starting to grow again as we approach six months into Biden Administration 

July 15, 2021

New fact sheets from Sentencing Project on disparities in youth incarceration

Via email this morning, I received details and links about notable new data assembled by The Sentencing Project. Here is the heart of the email:

Profound racial and ethnic disparities in youth incarceration define the American juvenile justice system. New publications released today by The Sentencing Project detail the scope of the problem and should raise alarms among policymakers and advocates committed to racial justice. Our new fact sheets show state-by-state incarceration rates by race and ethnicity and highlight where the problem is getting worse and better. Black Disparities in Youth Incarceration Black youth are more than four times as likely as their white peers to be held in juvenile facilities, a modest improvement since 2015s all-time high. In New Jersey, Black youth are more than 17 times as likely to be incarcerated than their white peers.

Latinx Disparities in Youth Incarceration Latinx youth are 28 percent more likely to be incarcerated than their white peers, a sharp improvement over the course of the decade. In Massachusetts, Latinx youth are five times more likely to be incarcerated than their white peers.

Tribal Disparities in Youth Incarceration Tribal youths disparities have grown worse over the course of the decade, and they are now more than three times as likely to be incarcerated than their white peers. In Minnesota, Tribal youth are 12 times more likely to be incarcerated than their white peers.

The Sentencing Project has long recommended the use of racial impact statements to divulge the source of disparities such as these. To overcome them, states and localities must invest heavily in community programs that address inequality at all stages of life, with particular focus on accommodating the needs of children of color.

July 15, 2021 at 11:17 AM | Permalink

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SEOUL, South Korea, July 15, 2021--(BUSINESS WIRE)--INNORULES (CEO, Kil Kon Kim) announced that it supplied the companys Digital Decision Manager (DDM) to the future innovation project of one of the biggest insurance companies in Japan and the first stage system has been opened.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210714005035/en/

INNORULES Digital Product Manager (DPM) is a product information management system that supports the development of new products quickly and easily by disassembling and assembling the product information, structure and attributes. INNORULES, a Korean professional developer of Business Rule Engine, supplied the Digital Product Manager to the innovative digital transformation project of one of the biggest insurance companies in Japan. INNORULES is planning to expand into the South East Asian financial market upon this opportunity. (Graphic: Business Wire)

INNORULES is a professional developer of a Business Rule Engine (BRE) solution. BRE simplifies tasks and improves the speed and efficiency of system building. Many Korean financial companies including insurers, brokerages, and banks have adopted the INNORULES product.

The Japanese company has been preparing for this next-generation project since 2016. It is the biggest project in 30 years with an investment of about USD 1.746 billion.

The Japanese company first met the INNORULES product when they visited Korea to benchmark Korean insurance companies and it eventually chose INNORULES after conducting the Benchmark Test.

The Japanese company adopted INNORULES Digital Product Manager (DPM) for their key tasks and simplified their merchandise structures such as insurance sales, insurance premium receipt, and premium settlement process.

In addition, INNORULES played a role in the core of the project by improving the performance of the clients legacy system, which is composed of massive accumulated data. Previously, it was difficult to convert a new product swiftly since it needed to consider the impact of adding new products on the existing system.

Story continues

The newly launched system utilized INNORULES DPM to standardize common tasks and to separate product development processes according to the characteristics of products. The Japanese company is expecting to reduce the time to develop and modify a product by one-third from almost a year. The company plans to introduce the newly adopted system to their car insurance and fire insurance system by 2025.

INNORULES is planning to expand into the South East Asian market upon this opportunity.

INNORULES Chief Executive Officer Kil Kon Kim said, "It is very meaningful to provide our product for the core business of the Japanese financial company that is usually very cautious. Having been recognized for our stability and technological capability for years, we receive continuous inquiries from other Japanese financial companies since a new system launched through the recent contract."

"Based on the deals with the Japanese company and domestic companies, we are planning to expand into the major South East Asian countries including Indonesia and Malaysia that are preparing for new financial projects," Kim added. "We expect more than 20% growth of the overseas sales this year."

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210714005035/en/

Contacts

INNORULES CO.,LTD

Yosep Park

+82-2-416-2501

marketing@innorules.com
Two states have made their way back onto Chicago's orange list, which requires travelers to test negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours of their visit or quarantine for 10 days on arrival to the Windy City.

Missouri and Arkansas landed on the list because of rising COVID-19 infection rates that recently pushed both states above the threshold for unrestricted visits set by the city earlier in the pandemic, Chicago officials said in announcing the change.

Chicago hasn't had any states on its travel advisory list since June 1. The additions come as COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations are trending upward in western and southern Illinois, which shares a border with Missouri.

Missouri and Arkansas are reporting more than 15 new cases each day per 100,000 local residents. They're the only two U.S. states with infection rates above those levels.

Tourists ride a trolley through a shopping center in Branson, Missouri

Liz Sanders/Bloomberg via Getty Images Tourists ride a trolley through a shopping center in Branson, Missouri, U.S., on Tuesday, June 29, 2021. President Biden set a goal for 70% of American adults to get at least one Covid-19 shot by July 4. Despite ample vaccine supplies he missed that target, largely because the government has struggled to give away shots in rural, deeply conservative regions that are bastions of support for his predecessor.

"We are doing very well right now here in Chicago, but across the whole U.S., you know, cases actually are up a little bit...they're up 5 to 10% across the whole country," Chicago Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Allison Arwady said during a Facebook Live event covered by a local NBC station.

Chicago has made clear that it won't be shy to amend travel restrictions as the COVID-19 situation evolves, especially as a new, rapidly spreading Delta variant is making its way around the world.

As vaccination rates rise, COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths continue to fall in Chicago. The city is now reporting fewer than 60 new coronavirus infections per day, according to the latest available city data.

More than 50% of Chicagoans have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, while nearly 57% have received at least one dose of the vaccine. The city continues to urge everyone to get vaccinated and recommends that travelers bring along their original vaccine cards.

Meena Thiruvengadam is a Travel + Leisure contributor who has visited 50 countries on six continents and 47 U.S. states. Find her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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Caravan bringing home remains of Rosebud Sioux children to stop in Sioux City

Matt Rourke, Associated Press Interior Secretary Deb Haaland meets with young people from the Rosebud Sioux Tribe in South Dakota after a ceremony at the U.S. Army's Carlisle Barracks, in Carlisle, Pa. The disinterred remains of nine Native American children who died more than a century ago while attending a government-run school in Pennsylvania were headed home to Rosebud Sioux tribal lands in South Dakota on Wednesday after a ceremony returning them to relatives. The caravan will stop in Sioux City Thursday night for a ceremony and leave early the next morning.

SIOUX CITY -- A caravan bringing home the remains of nine Rosebud Sioux children, who died at a Pennsylvania boarding school more than a century ago, will stop in Sioux City Thursday.

Ten Native American children -- nine from the South Dakota tribe and one from the Alaskan Aleut Tribe -- were recently disinterred from a cemetery on the grounds of the Carlisle Barracks, which also houses the U.S. Army War College. The Rosebud Sioux Tribe, which is also known as Sicangu Lakota, spent several years negotiating the repatriation of the children's remains.

The cemetery contains more than 180 graves of students who attended the former Carlisle Indian Industrial School  a government-run boarding school for Native American children. This is the Army's fourth disinterment project at the school in as many years.

"With the recent unearthing of our Native children's bodies at boarding schools, this has been hard and emotional for all First Nations in the U.S. and Canada," said Trisha Etringer, a member of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska.

Etringer is involved in organizing a community meal/prayer service at 8 p.m. Thursday at War Eagle Park in Sioux City. She said a fire will be lit at the park for anyone who wants to pay their respects before 8 p.m.

The Sicangu relatives will depart from the Tyson Events Center parking lot at 8 a.m. Friday. The Winnebago Tribe will provide refreshments beforehand, beginning at 7 a.m. A morning prayer will follow at 7:30 a.m. Sioux City Police officers will escort the relatives into and out of the city, according to Etringer.

Carlisle Indian Industrial School, which was founded by an Army officer, opened in 1879 and housed some 10,000 Indigenous children before it shut down in 1918. Students were forced to cut their braids, dress in uniforms, speak English and adopt European names. Infectious disease and harsh conditions claimed the lives of many of the children buried there.

The Army is fully funding the cost of the project  about $500,000 per year, including travel to the transfer ceremony, as well as transport and reburial of the deceased children.

"The Army's commitment remains steadfast to these nine Native American families and one Alaskan Native family. Our objective is to reunite the families with their children in a manner of utmost dignity and respect," Karen Durham-Aguilera, executive director of Army National Military Cemeteries, said in a statement issued last month.

Since 2016, dozens of Native American and Alaskan Native families have requested that their ancestors be returned from Carlisle. The Rosebud Sioux Tribe's youth council members encouraged the tribal council to seek the return of the children's remains after a visit to the Carlisle grounds in 2015.

The children's English names, and where available their Native Americans names, were: Dennis Strikes First (Blue Tomahawk), Rose Long Face (Little Hawk), Lucy Take The Tail (Pretty Eagle), Warren Painter (Bear Paints Dirt), Ernest Knocks Off (White Thunder), Maud Little Girl (Swift Bear), Friend Hollow Horn Bear, Dora Her Pipe (Brave Bull) and Alvan  also known as Roaster, Kills Seven Horses and One That Kills Seven Horses; and Sophia Tetoff of the Alaskan Aleut tribe on Saint Paul Island in the Bering Sea.

The Carlisle Indian School Digital Resource Center archives at Dickinson College include newspaper clippings detailing the deaths of some students or identification cards with name, tribal affiliation, date of arrival and date of departure, with the reason for the latter often listed as "death," the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported.

Dennis Strikes First arrived Oct. 6, 1879, and died Jan. 19, 1887, of typhoid pneumonia. A news item indicates that he was the son of Blue Tomahawk of Rosebud Agency, Dakota, and calls him a "bright, studious, ambitious boy, standing first in his class, and of so tractable a disposition as to be no trouble to his teachers."

Another clipping detailed the Dec. 14, 1880, deaths of Ernest Knocks Off and Maud Little Girl, describing it as a "sad and mysterious coincidence." Ernest was sent to the hospital in October to receive treatment for a sore throat, but he wouldn't agree to take any medicine, leaving him "weak and exhausted." Maud Little Girl was said to have died of pneumonia and was called a "bright, impulsive, warm-hearted girl, much beloved by her school mates."

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

Special Journal report - Stolen lives: The epidemic of missing and murdered Indigenous women Close

Harvard returning Standing Bear's tomahawk to Nebraska tribe BOSTON  A tomahawk once owned by Chief Standing Bear, a pioneering Native American civil rights leader, is returning to his Nebraska tribe after decades in a museum at Harvard.
SIOUX CITY -- A caravan bringing home the remains of nine Rosebud Sioux children, who died at a Pennsylvania boarding school more than a century ago, will stop in Sioux City Thursday.

Ten Native American children -- nine from the South Dakota tribe and one from the Alaskan Aleut Tribe -- were recently disinterred from a cemetery on the grounds of the Carlisle Barracks, which also houses the U.S. Army War College. The Rosebud Sioux Tribe, which is also known as Sicangu Lakota, spent several years negotiating the repatriation of the children's remains.

The cemetery contains more than 180 graves of students who attended the former Carlisle Indian Industrial School  a government-run boarding school for Native American children. This is the Army's fourth disinterment project at the school in as many years.

"With the recent unearthing of our Native children's bodies at boarding schools, this has been hard and emotional for all First Nations in the U.S. and Canada," said Trisha Etringer, a member of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska.

Etringer is involved in organizing a community meal/prayer service at 8 p.m. Thursday at War Eagle Park in Sioux City. She said a fire will be lit at the park for anyone who wants to pay their respects before 8 p.m.
Months after taking office in 2019, Beck was indicted on charges of mail fraud, wire fraud, money laundering and filing false tax returns.

Beck's defense has yet to present its case. Lawyers argued Tuesday as the trial opened that Beck hadn't hurt the association but instead turned it from losses to profits. They argue that Beck was an innovator and that even if his methods were unconventional, there's no proof he meant to hurt the association. They also suggested Green Technology Services provided useful data, even if witnesses were unaware.

Sonya McKaig testified that Beck asked her to start reviewing insurance applications for the association, which writes coverage for property owners who can't find it on the normal insurance market. The Georgia Underwriting Association, authorized under state law, is owned by state-regulated insurers who share in its risks.

Both McKaigs testified they did real work, although most billings were for money flowing to Green Technology Services.

McKaig said she reviewed information on applications, allowing GUA to charge correct premiums. Beck directed her each month to roll into her bill a separate bill from Green Technology Services. That amount was typically $28,700 a month, with Beck telling McKaig to mark up the amount by another 5% for herself, according to her testimony.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  A judge allowed Britney Spears to hire an attorney of her choosing at a hearing Wednesday in which she broke down in tears after describing the cruelty" of her conservatorship.
The blaze, which has burned an area larger than New York City, has destroyed about 20 homes and 2,000 more are under evacuation, but much of it was burning in remote areas of the Fremont-Winema National Forest. On Wednesday, the fire was 5% contained.

But even when the flames don't enter densely populated areas, the impact of the increasingly intense fires around the U.S. West is felt directly by Native American tribes, who have managed the land for millennia.

We couldnt do ceremonies because of the fire and our hunting grounds, we could not hunt there, said Hockaday of last year's fire. About 40 square miles (103 square kilometers) of our original territory is closed to us right now.

Members of the Klamath Tribes in Chiloquin, Oregon, are concerned the Bootleg Fire will affect their ancestral territory as well.

There is definitely extensive damage to the forest where we have our treaty rights. I am sure we have lost a number of deer in the fire, said Don Gentry, chairman of the Klamath Tribal Council in Chiloquin, Oregon.

Gentry said although the active fire was 25 miles (40 kilometers) from the tribes administrative headquarters, the council declared a state of emergency Wednesday because of its erratic behavior and rapid growth.
Midkiff said at least one bidder withdrew because of the multi-million dollar cost increase" it claimed would be needed to meet the enhanced security.

To ensure fairness and (to) find the most qualified bidder to build a secure, modern system," she added, rebidding is necessary.

The state will issue its revised request for bids as soon as possible, Midkiff said. The new round of bidding is not anticipated to cause a material delay in launching the new system, she said. The Lexington Herald-Leader first reported the state's rebidding decision.

In April, Kentucky temporarily shut down its unemployment system for a few days to bolster security protections. State officials said they suspected that individuals or criminal enterprises attempted to hack into the systems customer data.

Problems with the antiquated system have become a recurring political headache for Beshear.

Like other states, Kentucky was overwhelmed by record waves of claims for jobless assistance caused by the coronavirus. Tens of thousands of Kentuckians found themselves in limbo for months as they waited for their jobless claims to be processed. The state has paid out more than $6 billion in unemployment benefits to Kentuckians since March 2020, Beshear's administration said.
TORONTO  Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Thursday Canada could start allowing fully vaccinated Americans into Canada as of mid-August for non-essential travel and should be in a position to welcome fully vaccinated travelers from all countries by early September.
ATLANTA (AP)  Former President Donald Trump is declaring his opposition to a high-ranking Georgia Republican's bid for lieutenant governor, another sign of how state-level politics is being reordered by Trump's insistence that all Republicans repudiate his 2020 election loss.
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. (AP)  A judge has denied a prosecutor's bid to file rape charges against the man accused of killing California college student Kristin Smart, who went missing 25 years ago.

The San Luis Obispo district attorney's office had sought to add two rape charges  for offenses they say were committed in Los Angeles County after Smart disappeared  to the complaint filed against Paul Flores in Smart's death, KEYT reported Wednesday.

The judge ruled against the DA's motion and scheduled a preliminary hearing in the murder case for Aug. 2, according to the San Luis Obispo Tribune.

Paul Flores, now 44, was the last person seen with Smart on May 25, 1996, at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, where they were both freshmen. Prosecutors said he killed Smart while trying to rape her in his dorm room after he had agreed to walk her home from a party, where she had gotten intoxicated.

Her body has never been found.
Indeed, Parnas was, by his own admission, not cooperating with the Congressional demand as of the day of his indictment. To accept Parnass conspiracy theory, the Government would have to have known that, one day in the future, Parnas would change his mind and decide to cooperate with the Congressional demand, he said.

The judge also said the conduct of prosecutors since the charges were brought undermine the selective prosecution argument.

The Government consented to allowing Parnas to produce documents to the House impeachment committee, and it has not objected to Parnass media interviews and television appearances, Oetken said.

The judge did, however, grant a request by Parnas to allow him to face a separate trial on charges that he cheated investors in a business titled Fraud Guarantee."

Parnas and Fruman face charges that they made sizable contributions while trying to get Americans interested in investigating Bidens son in Ukraine. Parnas and Fruman worked with Giuliani to try to convince Ukraine to announce a probe of Biden. Giuliani, a Republican, has said he knew nothing about the donations.

Trumps efforts to press Ukraine for an investigation of the Bidens led the House to impeach Trump, though he was acquitted by the Senate.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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MADISON, Wis. (AP)  The son of a Wisconsin couple who went missing last week was formally accused Thursday of killing his father and dismembering his body, while authorities announced that additional human remains were found in another location.

Chandler Halderson, 23, who was living with his parents in Windsor, is charged with first-degree intentional homicide, hiding and mutilating a corpse and providing false information on a kidnapping in regards to the death of 50-year-old Bart Halderson. Bart Halderson's wife, 53-year-old Krista Halderson, remains missing.

Authorities a week ago discovered the remains of 50-year-old Bart Halderson in the town of Cottage Grove. The remains found Wednesday and revealed Thursday where found on state Department of Natural Resources land near Sauk City. They have not been identified.

Meanwhile, Dane County Circuit Court Commissioner Brian Asmus set bail for Chandler Halderson at $1 million after arguments by prosecutors and Halderson's attorney.
"When the first one checks in, it's exciting," said Gary Hawkes, communications director for the NHSFR. "It's a tell-tale sign that things are getting started."

Not far behind Ember and her rodeo queen friends was 16-year-old Ross Price, who traveled from Carlisle, South Carolina, to compete in four events.

Ross and his family drove 17 hours to Lincoln to get their spot in line on Thursday, arriving around 7:40 a.m. The family drove their pickup and horse trailer with a caravan of family and friends, including Ross' cousin Katie, who is competing in shooting.

This year's National High School Finals Rodeo will be Ross' first, after a bull-riding injury last year hospitalized him for six weeks. At the time, he was told he'd never be able to ride again.

Ross, who has been competing in rodeo since he was 6 years old, said he practiced every day while recovering in order to make it to Lincoln this year. He will compete in bull riding, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping and team roping.

"I'm really looking forward to it," he said. "It's been a long journey to get here. It's hard but it's worth it."
Six weeks later, he learned the county agreed with him.

Thats rare, said Rob Ogden, the county assessor. He couldnt think of any other commercial building-and-land combination in Lincoln with no taxable value, though he knew of a couple parking lots assessed at zero.

That grain elevator needs to be torn down to make that land worth anything, Ogden said. And the cost of tearing down the concrete monster comes up to more than what the value of the land is.

But the land clearly has some value. A similar but slightly larger lot next door was assessed at $322,000, even though its primary building, a steel shed, was valued at zero. The old ice warehouse to the north is sitting on a larger lot valued at more than $450,000.

Ogden agreed. And if his office could, it would assign a negative value to the elevator, to reflect its cost of demolition, and a positive value to the lot. Even if they canceled each other out -- even if the combined assessment still fell to zero -- it would be more accurate.

But his offices system wont allow that, he said.

Woolsoncroft wouldnt even try to estimate the cost of tearing down the elevator and its 7-inch concrete walls. But any talk of demolition is misguided, he said.
A federal freeze on most evictions that was enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, has been the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and have fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing that they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rent.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they would face eviction within the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Iowa:
GILLETTE, Wyo. (AP)  A magician and comic has canceled performances at libraries in northeastern Wyoming because of online and phoned in threats over a social media post about her being a transgender woman, she said.

The Campbell County Library posted on its Facebook page that Mikayla Oz, 24, was cancelling shows planned for Wednesday and Thursday in Gillette and Wright out of safety concerns for herself, library staff and patrons, the Gillette News Record reported.

The fact that Oz is a transgender woman was shared on a social media post, leading to misinformation about her performances and calls to protest the events, library officials said.

Oz, who is from Des Moines, Iowa, has performed at libraries, schools and other events. She says the show she planned is family friendly and doesn't have an LGBTQ message.

She was initially willing to do her show despite some complaints, but then she started receiving violent and frightening threats online and by telephone, she said.

Library director Terri Lesley said her staff also received threats by a patron.
Magician Mikayla Oz was set to perform her first show in Wyoming on Wednesday. She booked six shows for kids and teens at the Campbell County Public Library in Gillette about a year ago, she said, and was excited to bring her family-friendly show about the magic of reading to the state.

Then, last week, the library began receiving calls and emails and noticing social media posts protesting Ozs shows after community members found out she is transgender.

Library leaders didnt know Oz is transgender when they booked her  and, Youth Services Director Darcy Acord said, it wouldnt have mattered.

On Saturday, the Iowa-based magician told the library she still wanted to go through with the show. But by Tuesday, after both Oz and the library received multiple threats from community members, Oz decided it wouldnt be safe for her or the kids to go through with the performance.

They said, You better not f-ing come to our town, Oz said of a phone call she received Monday night, if you do, theres going to be issues.

She also got an email with a similar message: You aint f-ing welcome in Gillette.
Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts temporarily banned evictions for 2 1/2 months near the start of the pandemic, before the CDC moratorium was in place. Ricketts' order expired at the end of May 2020.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Nebraska has earmarked $200 million from the coronavirus aid package Congress passed in December to help tenants with back rent, utility bills and other expenses.

The program, which is managed by the Nebraska Investment Finance Authority, offers up to $20,000 in assistance to renters or homeowners who need help paying up to 15 months of their bills. But the aid is only available to people who make 80% or less of their countys median income and can show theyre unable to pay rent because of a financial hardship caused by the pandemic or theyre at risk of becoming homeless.

So far, more than $15.8 million has been distributed to 4,420 households in Nebraska by the state agency and local programs in Lincoln and Omaha.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?
Iowa senators support

During his weekly call with Iowa reporters, Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, who has been in Washington since 1975 and the U.S. Senate since 1981, said it was up to Reynolds to make the decision she did.

"I think the governor is in the right and helping the governor of Texas out because the federal government is not doing its job, he said. If it was doing its job, we wouldn't have anybody crossing the border."

Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, a second-term Red Oak Republican in the U.S. Senate since 2015, told reporters during a separate teleconference that she believes Iowa taxpayers have a right to know what duties Iowa State Patrol troopers are performing in Texas, how much money is being spent and other details of the current mission.

"I believe transparency is always the best policy, and so I would love to know, of course, what our state troopers are doing, she said. I do support the governor's efforts there. But since our taxpayer dollars are being spent on that, yes, we should have some accountability on, you know, what those troopers missions are and how they'll be utilized at the border."
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP)  South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem on Thursday fired the warden and deputy warden of the state penitentiary in Sioux Falls, following an investigation into an anonymous complaint that alleged supervising corrections officers regularly sexually harassed their fellow employees.

The governor had suspended Darin Young, the former warden, on Tuesday, along with Secretary of Corrections Mike Leidholt. Noem said Thursday she has also suspended Stefany Bawek, who was the director of a prison work program called Pheasantland Industries.

The anonymous complaint released by Noems office alleges that supervising corrections officers at the prison were allowed to sexually harass employees and that attempts to report the harassment were ignored. The complaint states that schedules at the prison were adjusted so the officers could work in the same vicinities as their interest/victims" and that employees who did not give in to the harassment were made to suffer by being placed in less desirable posts."

Requests for comment left at phone numbers listed for Young, Jennifer Dreiske, the former deputy warden, and Bawek were not immediately returned.
You don't have to take my word for it; the data speaks for itself. The renewable energy industry has helped us create the 5,000 strong renewable energy workforce our state boasts, and Iowa saw $22 billion in capital investment. These economic boosters were coupled with $127.9 million generated in annual state and local tax payments and $68.9 million in annual land lease payments. All of this is to say, the time and effort Iowa leaders have put into making Iowa a destination for renewable energy investment have brought economic benefits to all Iowans -- not to mention the positive impact made with domestically produced energy that is good for the environment.

Along with my colleagues in Congress, I want to see Iowa landowners empowered to participate in renewable energy projects as they see fit so they can enjoy those economic benefits. Land lease payments have brought a flood-proof, drought-proof, derecho-proof crop that is available to our farmers. Participation in the many renewable energy projects across our state means consistent, reliable income at a time when many of Iowa's farmers are facing their financial future with uncertainty. It also means valuable local tax dollars into our schools and county roads that helps keep property tax increases at bay.
Break-in at the Warming Shelter

It was an odd choice of venue for a burglary.

A Sioux City woman was arrested July 2 after breaking into the Warming Shelter on Nebraska Street and then returning a few hours later.

At around 6:30 p.m. July 2, 36-year-old Doua Mee Lor of Sioux City broke into the Warming Shelter, 916 Nebraska St., which was closed at the time, according to a criminal complaint.

Lor kicked in the door to the manager's office and took several sets of keys and ransacked the office. She also broke into another locked room where laptops and other equipment were held, then took a shower and stole a blanket and soaps, according to the complaint.

She left the scene, but returned at around 10:15 p.m., by which time officers had arrived at the shelter. The keys taken during the burglary were found on her. Lor was arrested and booked into the Woodbury County jail shortly thereafter.

Lor faces a charge of third-degree burglary and was held on $5,000 bond.

Stolen canoe

Even a canoe can't be left unattended anymore.
Stephen Metcalf: In 2017, the short story Cat Person appeared in the New Yorker magazine, and thus an unknown writer named Kristen Roupenian joined the tradition of J.D. Salinger, John Cheever, Alice Munro.* But her story did something theirs never did: It went viral. It went really viral, and everyone I knew read it. We talked about it on this podcast. You pretty much had to read it. You had to have an opinion about it. You had to hash it out with the people you knew online and off. Cat Person told the story of a young woman, a college sophomore, who has a romantic relationship with an older man. Hes kind of a slob, sort of a know-it-all, kind of a loser, but somethings intriguing about him. The woman is both attracted to and repelled by his charms. They have sex. The sex is bad. Theres a long description of that. She then ghosts him, and over a course of texts, increasingly the veneer comes off her paramour, and his rage and misogyny surface right at the end of the story.

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A curious fact about Cat Person was unknown until last week: Many of its core details were taken from an actual persons actual life. So we spoke to Alexis Nowicki, who wrote the Slate essay  Cat Person and Me.

Alexis, you write, The similarities to my own life were eerie: The protagonist was a girl from my small hometown who lived in the dorms at my college and worked at the art house theater where Id worked and dated a man in his 30s, as I had. You go on to say that you recognize the man and the story, toowell get to that. But you ask, How did Roupenian, a person Id never met, somehow know about me? That mustve been a very strange experience. And for quite a long time, you actually didnt know the answer to that question. You lived with the omnipresent virality of the story, with an overwhelming but then-unconfirmed suspicion that it was partially about you. What was that like? And then how did that finally come to an end when you realized it really was about you?

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Alexis Nowicki: I mean, at first it just felt wild. There was a phase of my life where I would, as a fun fact, sometimes tell people, Oh, I think this story is about me. But I didnt have evidence. So I convinced myself that it wasntthat it was a crazy coincidence, partly in order to make myself feel OK and not totally creeped out by the similarities. And it wasnt until my exwhom I called Charles in the piecedied that I found out it actually was about me, and I had to process it in a real way. But I had been avoiding it, really, until then.

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Metcalf: You had a suspicion that if it were untrue, it would be merely paranoid, but it wasnt paranoid at all. It was rooted in fact, but it also brought your alienation into a new phase. I mean, things that had really happened to you had been, in some sense, repurposed. What was that like?

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Nowicki: My first instinct was actually to reach out to Kristen Roupenian herself, but I realized I was too angry at the time. It wasnt going to have a good result. I talked to an old writing teacher, coincidentally, and she suggested I try writing about it. My mom had also said the same thing. When my mom said it, I kind of brushed it off becauseI dont know, it was just my mom. But as soon as a writing teacher said I should do it, I did.

I think it ended up being the best thing I could have done in terms of empowering myself to reclaim the narrative. Also, [Charles] was the first death Ive experienced. So maybe this is something that happens every time someone dies, but I felt so scared of losing the memories I had, since I was suddenly the only person who had them. I was so scared of forgetting them and of remembering instead what Kristen wrote in Cat Person. So I just felt that I needed urgently to make a record of everything that happened in our relationship. And then once I had written it, I thought, oh, this is actually something that might be of interest to others.

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Allegra Frank: Something that was really interesting to me about your story beyond literally every part of itwas that the original short story immediately engendered a ton of conversation. But this was an essay I was sharing with friends who had read the story, friends who hadnt read the story. It felt like everyone I knew had interest in or an opinion on it. What was that experience like, for you, watching as people responded in real time to the reality of your situation, your life?

Nowicki: I had not gone viral before, which is a strange experience. It felt too overwhelming while it was happening to really process it. A lot of people were sending me tweets from fiction writers who felt that they were maybe threatened by the essay or felt I was saying that you cant take anything from real life when youre writing fiction, which of course is not true. And I dont think I was saying that. I didnt pay a lot of attention to or care very much about those tweets. I felt like the overwhelming responsewhich I did pay more attention towas that people seemed to understand that this is actually a pretty complicated, nuanced situation. And theres no real right and wrong here. I was really pleased to see that so many people got that. But of course, because its Twitter, people want to take sides.

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Heather Schwedel: I found it interesting how some people seemed to want to gleefully discredit Roupenian and use this as evidence, like, oh, shes a bad writer, she steals things. My reaction to that was that I wanted to defend the story, still. She has admitted that what she did was wrong, but theres still so much that I appreciate about the story. How do you think of the story today? Are you able to separate yourself from it?

Nowicki: I understand why it had the reaction that it did and the reception that it did. I understand why people loved it at the time. Unfortunately, I think Im never going to be able to separate myself from it. And I dont think I was able to read it at the time, even, with any sort of distance, because it was just such a different experience for me reading it and recognizing myself in it. But if she had just changed a few key details, and if I hadnt been so recognizable in the piece, and if my ex hadnt  I wonder what reaction I wouldve had to it. I probably would have some more appreciation for it.

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Frank: Even though so many explicit details in the story come from your life, the pivotal scenes are not taken directly from your relationship. I do wonder about what it would have been like for you if there was a version of the story that was still inspired by you but without that same specificity.

Nowicki: I think about the idea of autofiction a lot. I mean, I work in book publishing, and in my job as a publicist, Im constantly thinking about how I need to get readers to see an author as credible with fictional stories. Often, the way I go about doing that is by saying the author is from a similar background or has had a similar experience to the narrator they write about. In my opinion, theres no black and white and no clear answer on what is an OK amount to borrow from someones life. I think the least you can do is change recognizable details.

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Frank: In late June, I remember seeing news about casting for the Cat Person movie, which was the first time I had thought about the story in quite some time. I wonder if you have any thoughts on the fact that is a movie in the works based on the story itself. Ive seen some people say, Well, actually if theres a movie to be made, it seems like its Alexis story more than the original.

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Nowicki: Its interesting. Ive seen some good tweets about doing something sort of Adaptation-style. Honestly, I dont think I will watch the one that is slated to come out. I wonder if it will be changed in some way.

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Metcalf: Were living through a funny moment where theres some weird premium in Hollywood on basing movies on true stories and insisting on that truth, even when a cursory fact-check reveals its been reworked almost beyond recognition. But theres some value for certain audience members in believing that theyre getting a history lesson, as well.

I mean, for all of human history, fiction has often been autofiction to some degree, right? Its drawn upon real experience. But what made this story so unique in some sense is that this was a very small-canvas short story by an unknown writer that achieved unprecedented virality. That must have shocked its author when it happened. I mean, it was probably a story she anticipated would be read by a few hundred people when she wrote it. This sense of awesome responsibility came after the fact, I would imagine, of it going viral. And so its a bizarre quirk of fate in the age of the internet, that the two of you got co-elevated and she was suddenly faced with the responsibility of not having sufficiently fictionalized the story. And you were faced with this weird existential vertigo of watching things that had happened so exclusively to you suddenly become part of a nearly universal conversation among our peers. It feels like virality plays a huge part in whatever the ethics may or may not be of the story.

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Nowicki: Yeah, absolutely. And thats part of why its so complicated, and why I dont explicitly say she did something wrongthere was no way she knew it would go viral. I think there was no way she even knew that the New Yorker would publish it when she submitted it. She had not published writing there before. I dont think she meant to hurt anyone. I mean, I know she kind of stalked me on social media, but I imagine that when she wrote the story, she had no way to know I would end up working in book publishing and be someone who would be participating in the conversations people were having around Cat Person. I very well could have gone in a different direction with my life.
Theres a certain expectation thats set when a movies logline boils down to Someone steals Nicolas Cages pig, and so he sets out to get it back. Pigs premisewidely compared, after the release of its trailer, to that of John Wick (which saw Keanu Reeves wipe out a group of Russian gangsters in retaliation for killing his pet puppy)and the casting of Cage suggest a gonzo action flick. If thats what youre after, Pig wont necessarily disappoint you, but this thriller is not really comparable to anything thats come before it. A healthy serving of carnage doused with some original-recipe Cage rage arent really the movies main course. Instead, director Michael Sarnoski aims to serve up an existential crisis.

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Cage stars as Rob, a man whose entire existence seems to revolve around the truffle pig with whom he lives. Together, they go hunting for the delectable fungi in the woods outside of Portland. At home, in a little shack, Rob cooks meals for the two of them. Its apparent that some kind of trauma has driven Rob to where he is now, but otherwise, his life seems idyllic, interrupted only by visits from Amir (Alex Wolff), an unctuous up-and-comer in the truffle trade who shows up at the foragers door to take the precious tubers off their hands (hooves?). Amir and Rob are polar oppositesif anything, Amir comes across as a mix between Successions Roman and Kendall Roybut Amir is the only other person in Robs orbit, which also makes him the only person Rob can turn to when, in the middle of the night, someone kidnaps his beloved hog.

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One stop on the duos journey to retrieve the pig does involve getting bloody, but otherwise, the Wick comparisons can really only be drawn to the way Sarnoski makes Portlands food scene, into which Amir and Rob must dive, feel like a labyrinth. Pig is unpredictable, not because it doesnt draw out a clear arcit doesbut because it defies the conventions weve been led to expect from movies like it. Rob is an inexorable force, but his talent isnt for gun-fu or murdering his enemies with a pencil. Its for seeing the truth. As the movie slowly doles out details of his past, it also reveals why Rob is so good at homing in on the decisions that people regret or are too afraid to make. And those scenesquiet, measured, psychological close readsare devastating. Fear of failure is a common emotion, and one that can often make the road less traveled seem like its not a real option. When confronted with that explicitly, characters crumble like towers of sand.

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Pig also ventures into the realm of sense memory, with Proustian moments that drive its characters back into their own histories, pushing the film deeper into contemplative depths its revenge-movie premise would never really suggest. But to give anything further away would ruin the fun. Pig is a small film with a few big surprises executed very well, and well worth going into as blind as possible.

In recent years, Cage has become a pop culture curio, but hes the kind of actor who never gives less than 100 percent in any given role, and often gives quite a bit more. The best of his recent roles, in Kick-Ass, Into the Spider-Verse, and Mandy, have capitalized on the total earnestness that he seems incapable of letting go. That furrow in his brow suggests less a willingness to fight and more a permanent state of concerntheres something about his now well-worn features that immediately reads as vulnerability, as if he wouldnt strike back if you made fun of him but would be hurt, deep down. Its this quality, at odds with the tough-guy roles hes often slotted into, that makes him so magnetic and fascinating to watch, and so perfect in Pig. And though its a tall order to act as his scene partner, Wolff pulls it off, striking a delicate balance between inner insecurity and outward entitlement that deteriorates as the movie goes on.

At the end of the day, Pig is a little slim, which is both a blessing and a curse: a blessing in that its not contorting itself to set up a sequel or open up into a broader universe, a curse in that it wraps up so neatly that it feels almost abbreviated. Then again, to go on too long would spoil the relatively simple story Sarnoski is trying to tell. Sometimes the best meals are the ones that leave you wanting more.
Dear Prudence is Slates advice column. Submit questions here.

Dear Prudence,

I never got along with my stepsister, Pam, because our parents married and moved six kids into a four- bedroom house. As the two girls, we were crammed together and constantly fought. We made each others life a living hell as only teenage girls can. We are both in our thirties now. I am civil towards Pam, but we have gone years without speaking directly to each other. She did invite me to her wedding, but I declined as I was in grad school.

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Now, my partner and I are expecting twins. They look likely to be the only grandchildren as my brothers and stepbrothers are all confirmed bachelors. Pam has been struggling with infertility for years and years now. At the news, Pam got extremely enthusiastic and started bombarding me with texts, calls, and support. It made me uncomfortable, and I asked my mother to intervene. I even told Pam that this was all too much.

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Then, she got into a very public feud on social media with my best friend. She had organized my baby shower, and Pam got livid. She went on a rant where she was the aunt, my best friend was overstepping and needed to know her place. These were her babies. Pam later deleted the post, but I was sent screenshots by multiple people. I dont know if it was just a one-time incident or not, but I dont care. It freaked me out. My partner and I agreed that we dont want Pam involved in our lives at this point.

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Pam has apologized but not respected our requests. She has sent us unsolicited multiple gifts that we sent back, and we had to block her number. My mother and stepfather tell me we are being too cruel and dont understand what Pam has gone through over the years. I am very sorry for her struggles, but her position has no bearing on mine. They have persisted trying to plead her case so much that we had to cut down our communication with them. I am getting physically sick from the stress. What do we do?

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 Stressed Out

Dear Stressed Out,

I dont think what Pam has done justifies cutting her off for life, but I absolutely think youve made the right decision by blocking her for now. You do not want to be physically sick from stress during your pregnancy, and you did the right thing by ending contact with her.

Now tell your mom or stepfather that you dont want to discuss Pam anymore, or theyll be next. I know that sounds harsh, but youre the most vulnerable person in this situation, and you have to protect yourself.

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Im getting the feeling that Pam is acting irrationally in a way that goes slightly beyond the family antics that tend to surround big life events, and beyond a normal reaction to fertility struggles. Who knows what else is going on with her. At some point after your babies are born, if you feel you have the emotional stability and bandwidth, maybe you can check in with your mother and stepfather about what exactly she has gone through and how its affecting her, and decide if theres a place for her in your and your babys life.

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Dear Prudence,

My house sits outside a housing development on two acres. We have the only real trees since the developer cut all their old growth down and put up fragile little twigs that give no shade.

There are no parks nearby.

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During the pandemic, we noticed that the local mothers would bring their children to the far side of our property and let them play in the shade. My husband and I put out a nice wooden picnic bench and a tire swing off a tree. Everything was fine for months until we noticed a lot of trash left there. We put out on the local social media page for our neighbors to be mindful this was private property and to please pick up after themselves. It still continued.

We had to take the tire swing down because children were using it dangerously (and even trying to climb our trees), and their mothers were not paying any attention. Then we started getting complaints from people. The straw that broke us was finding our picnic bench had been vandalized with profanity carved into it. My husband had made the bench himself. We dragged the bench back behind the house and posted again on social media that our generosity was at its limit, and for people to please stay off our property. We also got outside cameras based on advice from friends.

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What happened then is that one of our neighbors decided to have a family party on our property and got miffed the picnic table was gone, so they went right behind our home and dragged it back to its original position. My husband came home to find the party in full swing. He went up and asked them what the hell they thought they were doing. There was a confrontation: No violence, but threats to call the police came from both sides. My husband told them we had cameras and to leave. They did, but on the video you can see them making obscene gestures and the license plates of their cars.

We ended up contacting the HOA of the development over everything, since social media and common courtesy has netted us nothing. They put in an official reprimand to all residents about leaving us alone, but they also want the video of the people from the party so they can make an example out of the trespassers. My husband has gotten very bitter about this entire affair and wants to give them the videos. I just want this over with. We tried to be good neighbors, only for it to blow up into this. What should we do?

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 Want a Good Fence

Dear Good Fence,

Well, this has definitely gotten out of hand. Your neighbors were dead wrong for stealing the picnic bench, but at this point, I dont see the point of handing over the video and escalating things further. Put a little sign up at your property line that says private property. Maybe a big sign. And in the future, dont offer your space to the public unless you can do it without any expectations at all about how it will be used. Your heart was in the right place when you made the offer, but generosity that comes with rules and conditions almost always leads to frustration.

How to Get Advice From Prudie

Submit your questions anonymously here. (Questions may be edited for publication.) Join the live chat every Monday at noon (and submit your comments) here, or call the Dear Prudence podcast voicemail at 401-371-3327 to hear your question answered on a future episode of the show.

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Dear Prudence,

I am in the process of being diagnosed with a disorder of the autonomic nervous system, and I have recently been suffering from what is likely gastroparesis. Im barely able to eat and have lost five pounds in a week; Im vomiting upwards of seven times per day and have needed IV fluids three times in seven days because I cant keep fluids down. I also injured my back right before this flare up of symptoms and still have occasionally severe pain. (The condition can also cause chronic pain.) Im already on a lot of medications, and Id like to explore the possibility of medicinal marijuana if my stomach symptoms and pain persist, but my husband is military and was raised to be very against any kind of drugs. We also have two young children, and he worries about them being exposed to drugs or accidentally consuming it. I have tried to broach the subject with him before, but for severe mental health issues instead of physical. I just want him to have an open mind about things and see how much Im suffering. Is it even possible to have a rational conversation about it with him?

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 Seriously, I Just Want to Eat

Dear Seriously,

Your husband is living in the dark ages, and his outdated views should not keep you from getting whatever medication you need to be able to eat and relieve your pain. The only part of his concern that is at all valid is his nervousness about your children consuming the medical marijuana accidently. So get a safe and keep it there. Problem solved.

Im not gonna sugar-coat this. I have a real problem with his willingness to see you suffer and his failure to eagerly embrace anything that would make you feel better. Plus, I would bet money that hes fine with guns and prescription medications and alcohol in the home. And he has access to the same internet you do. So, if he wanted to learn about whether marijuana was safe, totally mainstream, and available for delivery to your door like a pizza in many states, he could. The military thing isnt an excuse to be so stubborn that hes willing to keep you from a substance that could allow you to keep a sip of water down.

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Youre married, I get it: You would rather get him to agree that this is a good idea than to do something that he finds scandalous. So take some time to educate him and attempt to get him on board. But not a lot of timelike, one 5-minute conversation before you go to get the prescription. This is your decision, not his. And once youre feeling better, I hope you give some thought to what it looks like for a spouse to care about your wellbeing and whether he meets that standard.

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Introducing Big Mood, Little Mood

Danny Lavery has a new Slate podcast! Listen and subscribe to Big Mood, Little Mood, where Lavery will be chatting with special guests, doling out advice, and talking about feelings, from the monumental to the minute. New episodes every Tuesday and Friday.

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Dear Prudence,

Im in a wedding in a couple of weeks, and Im worried about the makeup choice the bride has made for us. She is someone who is very trendy and doesnt stop to think about how a trend actually looks. She sent a photo of her makeup. Its a very trendy color palette and it looks terrible. I think shes planning on having the same color palette for all the bridesmaids. I dont think it would look good on any of us, all of whom have fair complexions. My question is, would it be rude to take some of the makeup off and put on colors that would look better? Im thinking about doing it during the reception when she wont notice, but maybe just before pictures too. I dont like having my picture taken and am very self-conscious about how I look because I feel like I have a lot of masculine features. Theres a guy there that I kind of like, and I dont want to look terrible in front of him. What is appropriate etiquette?

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 Makeup Take-Off

Dear Makeup Take-Off

Yes, you can rub your eyes by mistake (wink) or unintentionally (wink) get very sweaty and have to find a mirror and correct your makeup, butsorry!not until after the pictures are taken.

This gives me a chance to share my theory about being a bridesmaid, which is that if you agree to be one you are agreeing to be 1) decoration and 2) an assistant. So the best way to go into it is to completely abandon the idea of looking the way you want to look or having the day you want to have. Switch your mindset so that the point of the event is to be selfless and make the experience as great as possible for the bride. Make it into a game that only you know youre trying to win. How supportive can you be? What can you do to help the bride have the best day of her life while you have a day that youve had four times for four different friends and that is costing you tons of money? I know that sounds a bit unhealthy, but I think this approach is realistic, based on the nature of the event and how our culture treats weddings, which can be messed up on multiple levels. If youve signed up for it, lean into it.

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Of course, at some point you will end up having funafter all, youll be with friends drinking and eating and dancingbut think of the fun as a perk of a very important and very challenging job rather than an expectation.

As far as the guy, hopefully your up-close interactions will happen after youve had that unfortunate allergy attack and been forced to wipe off your clown makeup and replace it with something more understated. But keep in mind that youre still going to have the same face and the same personality that you always do, and someone whos really attracted to you is ultimately not going to be put off by a little glitter eyeshadow.

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Dear Prudence Uncensored

Live a little! Wear some eyeshadow!

Jenee Desmond-Harris and Lauren Williams discuss a letter in this weeks Dear Prudence Uncensoredonly for Slate Plus members.

Dear Prudence,

Theres a bookno, more than a book, lots of booksinside of me, just begging to pour out of my head. Mental illness and neurodivergence have been some really terrible, almost life-ending roadblocks to pursuing my writing dreams, but my new therapist has been a real help in getting me back to believing that I can be the writer I hope that I am. In our last session, she suggested that since I get so scared by trying to start something on a blank page but find talking out my book so easy, I should try talking out my writing and using a transcription service. It seems like a perfect solution; however, Ive been so scared that a transcriber would find my book dumb that I just  cant. (And I really need to use a human transcriber because of course my unusual accent plus mild speech impediment has led to some really terrible auto-dictation results.) What if they think my book sucks? Or the fact I use a hilariously bad approximation of a British accent when I write the love interests dialoguehow could they not find that idiotic? Or worse, hurtful, like Im making fun? I know dictation is the solution to get back to writing again, filling the void that this years-long writers block has hollowed out in me, but  how do I manage that feeling of judgment I know is coming any time I hit record on the Voice Memo app?

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One Day a Writer

Dear Writer,

This is a moment to ask yourself what you would prefer: The terror of a stranger listening to your words, or the disappointment youll feel if you never write and publish your book. If your fear of the latter is stronger, good! Youll need to draw on that for motivation.

I hate to say it, but this is not going to be the only time youre potentially judged during this process. Youll eventually need editing, and (assuming you go the traditional publishing route) youll have to pitch to agents, and if all goes well, the public will read (and review!) what you write. You might even be asked to speak about it in public. Its all horribly anxiety-inducing and involves many opportunities for people to let you know if they think your work is crap.

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I am glad you have a therapist who believes in you and is willing to brainstorm solutions, because writing is hard and causes a lot of angst and insecurity for almost everyone, with or without mental illness. As you continue to work on this, you should ask them to help you go beyond finding work-arounds and actually learn to deal with the difficult emotions that will surely show up throughout this very tough process.

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Dear Prudence,

My husband and I had extra embryos after our twins were born via IVF. We donated them to his sister, and she had Charlie. We never expected Charlie to be anything but our beloved nephew, but then my sister-in-law died of an unexpected brain aneurysm last year. Charlie was only 3. My husband and I took custody.

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I cant tell you how this tragedy has warped our family in ways that we are still finding out. Charlie is adapting beautifully, but my mother-in-law isnt. She gets very upset if Charlie calls me Momma or my husband Daddy. Or if our twins call Charlie their brother instead of cousin. She has accused me of trying to erase her daughter more than once.

My husband and I have every intention of telling Charlie about his mother and his origins, but he is 4 years old. My family is urging me to come home with the kids, that distance is the best thing I can do here, and that my mother-in-law needs to deal with her grief, not take it out on us. What should I do?

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 Mother Maybe

Dear Mother Maybe,

Your mother-in-law is understandably devastated, but shes wrong to lash out in this way. Putting aside the origin of the embryo, it seems totally reasonable that a kid who is raised in a family from the time hes in preschool would be allowed to call the parents mom and dad. Stay firm on that.

It would be wise to consult with a family therapist on the nuances of this, but I think Charlie is old enough to know about his mother. In fact, he never should have had a chance to forget! You dont want to have to sit him down and tell him about her in a big reveal that could be confusing and traumatizing. His origins should be discussed openly and often, so nothing about what happened feels secretive or shameful. Your mother-in-law can play an important role there. Have a talk with her about how challenging this has all been and how youd like her help in making sure Charlie feels included in your family but also knows and appreciates his real (first? biological? birth? other? Im not at all sure what terminology to use here, especially with the unusual embryo situation, but you can figure it out together) mom.

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Tell MIL youve put up some photos of her daughter and Charlie together in his room (and do it, obviously) and are going to start mentioning some memories the two of them had together and how much she loved him. And ask for help creating some traditions that honor her. For example, you could celebrate her birthday as a family every year, or cook her favorite foods on her favorite holiday.

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I predict shell get over the names your son uses for you and your husband as long as shes assured that her late daughter is not forgotten. And Im hopeful that she can be legitimately helpful when it comes to helping Charlie feel good about where he came from and where he is.

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Classic Prudie

My family planned an important vacation for this coming June. This vacation will be in a remote location, a helicopter ride away from medical services, and it is important to us for cultural reasons. Surprise, surpriseI learned Im pregnant, and I will be 36 weeks at the time of this trip. I asked my doctor, and she said it was pushing it to go on vacation at that time. I have already had one easy, uncomplicated birth. Also, my husband will be coming with us, and he is a doctor. My sister is threatening to cancel the vacation for everyone because she is too worried about me going. Ive assessed the risk as minimal, if any, and in any event, I am an adult! Should my sister shut her trap and let us all go on this vacation? Weve agreed to respect your advice.
Last month in Tennessee, social studies teacher Matthew Hawn was dismissed from his position after having his students read an essay by Ta-Nehisi Coates and watch the video of White Privilege, a poem written and performed by Kyla Jenee Lacey. The school board claimed their decision was rooted in several inappropriate terms used in the poem, but Lacey has good reason to be skeptical of that claim. Hawns firing happened within the current uproar about kids being taught about Americas long history with racism, currently (incorrectly) labeled as critical race theory.

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This was only the latest time Laceys poem, which you can watch below, has gone viral. I spoke with Lacey about her poems fame, how she uses experiences with racism as fuel for her work, and finding her power. A history major who is now a writer, performer, actor, painter, comedian, and poet, she garnishes her exquisite observations about racism with the occasional fuck. Our conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

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Julia Craven: How did you feel when you found out that Hawn was fired after playing your poem for his students?

Kyla Jenee Lacey: Initially, I was a bit shocked that a group of people would go that far. The work had been used as curriculum at different schools in different parts of the country, as well as different countries. Then I was a bit angered. I have a sensitivity towards my art. And one of the things that angered me the most was them saying that I wasnt a credible source, and Im not sure how Im not a credible source to my own experience.

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The poem went viral a few times, and in the very first wave of its virality, a lot of the white people who were upset continuously said, Well, you need to learn your history. You need to learn your education. I have a degree in history. That is literally what my degree is in.

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Its always a thing where white people are so quick to denounce the education of someone whos Black when their lack of education is offended.

What does this situation say to you about this moral panic thats happening around critical race theory, or in actuality, just teaching kids about racism?

Where does it stop? Our entire country was built on the premise of racism. So how do you teach what manifest destiny is without teaching that white people decided that this [country] was theirs? Because, really, thats what colonialism is. Colonialism is a white man saying, This is mine, and another white man agreeing, obviously by force and by violence, but thats what it is. So how do you teach that? If not the truth, what are you going to teach the kids?

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One thing that the school board mentioned in their decision to dismiss Hawn was the inappropriate language in your poem. What was your reaction upon hearing that? Did that strike you as being the real reason why?

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I know its not the real reason why. I have their required reading list. And in the books that they are required to read, theres sexual assault, murder, a lot of cursing. So I know that it was just a terrible excuse for their discomfort. And this is coming from somebody who was 16 years old having to, who grew up in a mostly white neighborhood, in my latter childhood, reading Mark Twain and reading the word n***er over 200 times in a book.

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Huck Finn was bad.

Thats classic literature, but the fact that I say, Youre not racist because you dont use the N word, but yall use n***as every day, now its too much? Now, its superfluous? Fuck out of here.

One thing that I also wanted to ask you about isyoure really funny. I was looking through your Twitter, obviously.

I actually take pride in my Twitter names. That is like my big thing, and a lot of people who follow me like my Twitter names.

I saw yesterday that it was Martin Luther Vandross. And now its For Whom the bell hooks, and these are both really great.

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Ive had John Linen Closet, and Chipotle Mayo Clinic was a fave. Audre Lorde Willing, Alice Walker Texas RangerI think that was one of my faves. I have a list of over 200 and Im really into them. Thats my big thing.

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What made you decide to start writing?

Ah, so my first poem was copyrighted when I was 10 years old. That is a true story. Its a very emo poem. So Ive always been a writer. I was a foreign language major before I switched to history. Ive always been interested in how language works, in etymology, as well as crafting language. Words have always been a thing for me. I was a nerd. I mean, I studied Latin, German, French.

Ive always loved writing and Ive always loved making people laugh and entertaining people.

It seems like a lot of the backlash around the White Privilege piece appears to be about not allowing you to have range as an artist or as a Black woman, which is, Im sure quite frustrating.

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I was born in Chicago and, when I was nine, we moved to a very white suburb of Orlando. I grew up 20 minutes away from where Trayvon Martin was murdered. And I was a thespian in high school, but I was always back-burnered. My drama teacher saidshe had a Henry David Thoreau shirt on, and I said, Oh, the father of transcendentalism, and she said, Oh, youre not as flighty as I thought you were.

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That is the sentiment of growing up. A lot of my teachers didnt like the fact that their brightest student was their darkest student. My fifth grade teacher said I wasnt ready to be tested for gifted [classes], but literally every single Friday, she would send me to a kindergarten class to tutor this other kid in reading because I had the highest reading scores. I was allowed to advance the education of a white student, but not my own education. So, for me, going to college was deprogramming who other people thought I was.

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My performance career started later than everybody else, because I never had that encouragement. I never had somebody say, Youre really good at this. Youre really good at poems.

I would have never in a million years imagined that I would be a poet, but I was always writing poems. I just never thought that this could be a career or this could be something. So even when people say Im funny, thats a big deal for me because, Black women arent allowed to be funny. Women arent allowed to be funny, let alone Black women, or there has to be some sort of raunchiness around itand, listen, I love a good dick joke, do not get me wrong. But there always has to be something extra around, or even just aesthetically. Struggling against being told I wasnt good enough to do something during my childhood definitely hindered me in my adulthood from putting myself out there.

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That explains, on a more personal level, what made White Privilege so resonant. Whenever I was listening to it, I could feel the very specific experiences that backed it up, even if I didnt know what they were. I could tell that you were speaking from a place of deep personal experience and that you had been thinking about it for a while.

Absolutely. I definitely feel like as a Black person, I face a fair amount of discrimination. And then on top of that, being a Black woman, I face even more.

I remember Toni Morrison said she didnt consider herself an author until after her third novel. Her third novel. She considered herself an editor who wrote, or a teacher who wrote, but she never considered herself an author because women tend to do that. We tend to shrink ourselves to make everybody else feel comfortable about our accomplishments. So for me, because Im good at a lot of things, I find myself believing that Im not allowed to say that. Im not allowed to be proud of those things at once. Im not allowed to be proud of the commas behind my name at once. So thats when you were like, what do you do, I was like, Which one do you want me to say? You know what Im saying? Like Im not allowed to say all of them. I cant say I do comedy. I have to put one thing behind my name.

Some people were attributing the poem to Ta-Nehisi Coates on Twitter. They werent saying my name. Somebody tweeted, Teacher gets fired for having kids read a Ta-Nehisi Coates essay and a poem on white privilege. So people amalgamated that and made it like he wrote the poem.

Am I allowed to say, No, youre wrong. This is my work? That was a thing when the poem was going viral, people had no problem sharing the work, but hearing my name was where that was too much. Somebody even said to me, Your name isnt important, the message is. Fuck you! Because if I didnt exist, the work wouldnt.

To understand more about how the fight over teaching racial equity is affecting our schools, listen to this episode of What Next.
By all accounts, the climate crisis is already here. Deadly heat domes across the Pacific Northwest, a petroleum pipeline leak in the middle of the ocean that set the Gulf of Mexico on fire, and the deadly floods in Germany and Belgium in the past few weeks alone have proved that the world is changing in response to how we have changed it.*

No one should be surprised by this. For decades, scientists have been ringing the alarm bell about anthropogenic climate change. Over 30 years ago, NASA scientist James Hansen told the U.S. Congress that the greenhouse effect is here. And long before then, in the 1800s, scientists like Svante Arrhenius calculated that doubling the amount of CO2 that was in the atmosphere in 1895 would lead to global warming of 5 to 6 degrees Celsius in average global temperatures. That wasnt too far off, said Peter Kalmus, a climate scientist at NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory, speaking on his own behalf. It was just that Arrheniuss timeframe for how quickly humans would emit those gasses was way off, Kalmus added: It only took about 125 years for that increase in CO2 fraction that he thought would take 3000 years. He grossly underestimated the rate of emissions from burning fossil fuels that we actually did.

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Arrheniuss original prediction represents a lot of the current problems faced by climate change models. Understanding where we are on the climate change timeline requires multiple stepswe need to know how much greenhouse gas has been emitted, how much those greenhouse gases have increased the global temperature, and then finally, we need to take one last step that even Arrhenius never tookwe need to understand how those changes in global temperature will affect the climate we experience. Its this last bit that is trickiestwe know the current proportion of carbon in our atmosphere (currently around 420 parts per million), what we dont know is how to accurately predict all the consequences of the temperature increase caused by that extra carbon.

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The scientific community has done a really good job projecting when we would get to 1.2 degrees Celsius, which is about where we are now, Kalmus said. The community hasnt done as good of a job projecting how bad climate impacts would be at 1.2 degrees Celsius.

Indeed, from heat domes to wildfires to rapidly melting ice sheets, a lot of the very real effects of the climate crisis that we are seeing seem far worseor far fromwhat was predicted. So in this summer in which it feels impossible to look at the news without seeing a climate catastrophe of some kind, I asked several climate scientists how the constant onslaught of tragedy affects where they put us on the climate timeline. What they had to say was not particularly reassuring.

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Its already worse than what I imagined. I feel like the heat dome event in the Pacific Northwest moved up my sense of where we are at by about a decade, or even more, said Kalmus. I think a lot of my colleagues probably feel the same.

In many ways, the climate crisis has moved now from an abstract concern to a very real one, according to Lise Van Susteren, an expert on climate grief and mental health as it intersects with climate change. Its not a storm that lasts 36 hours. Its not the aftermath of a flood. Were being cooked to death.

According to Van Susteren, this magnification of the climate crisiswhich is in turn amplified by the growing conversation around climatehas meant that more and more people are becoming concerned with the existential threat that the climate crisis poses. Indeed, the mental health effects of the climate crisis on the communities facing it are vast and varied: anxiety, grief, and pre-traumatic stress disorder (Van Susterens term), to name a few. And yet, real action still remains limited.

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Jennifer Atkinson, a professor of environmental humanities at the University of Washington, agrees. Its no longer a kind of vague concern about things happening in the future, its the realization that the world is unraveling around us right now. And the loss is piling up every day, she said. Its also the despair and outrage that the suffering and loss didnt have to happen.

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The extreme uncertainty of the climate crisisas proven by the fact that even the best predictions failed to account for the worst of the effectshas its own unsettling effect. I think the fact that its kind of happening faster and in a different way than we anticipated just exaggerates that sense of kind of confusion and loss of kind of intellectual stability that leads to things like climate grief, according to Susan Clayton, a professor of psychology and environmental studies at the College of Wooster.

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Part of the reason its been so hard to predict these effects in the first place is because they are complicated, non-linear processes, as Kalmus calls them. Scientists have to account for hundreds of variables, which means predictions are often far from perfect. Models for the melting of ice sheets in the Arctic, for example, are actually more optimistic than whats currently happening in places like Greenland and Antarctica, because those models havent taken into account the other processes that could accelerate melting (water can creep in under the ice sheets, causing them to slip off into the ocean more quickly, for example). The models, in this case, have proven overly conservative, not including some important real world processes, Michael Mann, a prominent climate scientist and the director of the Earth System Science Center at Pennsylvania State University, said about the ice sheet predictions.

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In other words, even as we watch the effects already happening, we still have to contend with how they will multiple and exacerbate one another. We have a lot to learn about specifics about how climate breakdown and how its going to affect civilization, Kalmus added. I think theres still a lot we dont know there.

Beyond what we can already see, anyway.
This article is part of Privacy in the Pandemic, a Future Tense series.

Pandemics have a history of shocking societies into new ways of living, and COVID-19 is no different. It has changed our families, our cities, how we love, and how we grieve. As quarantine pushed us inside and in front of our screens, our relationship with technology underwent significant changes as well. This is especially true as governments have tried to collect and analyze data in new ways to combat the ongoing pandemic. However, the methods and sources that public health officials have tapped remain opaque. Public health officials and their partners now stand at a crossroads: embrace transparency and reveal how they are collecting, analyzing, and distributing data to fight COVID-19 or risk permanently losing the trust and support of their constituents.

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In recent years, both governments and private companies have learned the importance of transparency the hard way. Edward Snowdens disclosures of NSA bulk surveillance sparked a societal debate over the privacy of our data, how its used, and the extent to which we control it.

At the same time, civil society has put greater pressure on companies to publicly explain how they collect and disclose information to government agencies like the NSA and FBI. Those same agencies have had to adapt to new legislation meant to hold them accountable for their abuse of data. Together, these changes were supposed to win back consumers confidence in American companies, and citizens trust in the American government.

Over the course of the pandemic, it seems many of the lessons of the Snowden era have been forgotten. COVID-19 has triggered a wave of opaque data sharing between the private sector and the government, with policy makers seeking out private partners to develop contact tracing applications, facilitate the exchange of public health data, improve the distribution of vaccines and personal protective equipment, and more. The $2.2 trillion financial aid package included in the proposed 2020 COVID relief bill led to a boom in federal lobbying filings and saw the federal government award upwards of $36 billion to private contractors. The result has been fluid transfers of data between public and private stakeholders which have largely taken place out of the public eye. This has left the public in the dark about how these deals have operated to date or how they may open new pathways for data to be exploited in the future, putting our civil liberties at risk.

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As we continue to combat COVID-19 and begin to reflect on our collective response, transparency is an essential prerequisite to assessing the true efficacy and proportionality of data sharing during the pandemic, and holding the caretakers of our data accountable. A tapestry of initiatives have tried to catalogue the wide range of data collaboratives created since the onset of the pandemic, including GovLab, Open Government Partnership, and GitHub. However, the these initiatives are only as good as the information they can access. That is why it is crucial that data collaboratives adopt the same reforms that were implemented in the Snowden era, such as transparency reporting. These reports are about more than just information disclosure: They reveal the inner workings and culture of these organizations and their relationship with their public partners. Transparency reports offer a clarity that can jump-start a cycle of critique and reform, allowing the public to hold the caretakers of their data accountable.

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Without transparency into how our data is collected, analyzed, and disclosed, were forced to evaluate these data sharing deals through the lens of their efficacy, but doing so can be deceptive. For instance, the Department of Health and Human Services partnered with Palantir to develop HHS Protect, which is touted as offering the best and most granular publicly available data on the pandemic. Palantirs platform draws insights from over 200 separate data sources and has become a reliable way to measure the capacity of hospitals around the country and helps to allocate public resources.

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At the same time, a coalition of civil society groups are suing the Departments of Homeland Security and Health and Human Services for allegedly withholding information regarding data collection and sharing for HHS Protect. Without knowing how a tool like HHS Protect collects, tracks, and shares information, theres no telling how data can be shared and used once its been logged. This is especially concerning when U.S. agencies like the FBI have a history of conducting warrantless queries on the databases of other government agencies, mining the data of Americans. Its no surprise that racial and immigrant justice groups are rightly concerned over how that data might be used by other agencies, like U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, to surveille vulnerable populations.

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It is difficult to hold private contractors accountable during the pandemic when they are exempt from the policies meant to hold them to task. Existing exemptions within the Freedom of Information Act allow companies to withhold commercial information from disclosed documents. During the pandemic, this power has been abused. After Deloittes failed implementation of the $44 million Vaccine Administration Management System that the company built for the CDC following an exclusive no-bid contract, Cat Ferguson of MIT Technology Reviews Pandemic Technology Project requested documents on the project under the Freedom of Information Act. The documents she received were heavily redacted, with key details of the project removed, including the sums and justifications of financial expenditures, justifications for why Deloitte was qualified to build such a platform, and the names of the entire development team. These same loopholes within the FOIA system are the focus of the lawsuit against Palantir.

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This secrecy is helping no one. In fact, it calls into question the federal governments pandemic-related partnerships with the other 6,300 companies with which they drafted contracts in 2020. Past crises have taught us that the exceptions we make and the precedents we establish during emergencies can remain long after the crisis has dissipated. The Snowden disclosures came twelve years after the initial implementation of the Patriot Act, and it was only last year that the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit ruled that the subsequent dragnet surveillance employed by the NSA may well have been unconstitutional. The COVID-19 pandemic has catalyzed another wave of data sharing between public and private institutions. Its crucial that both corporations and governments begin to disclose and clarify how citizens data has been leveraged during the pandemic before they are again held accountable for not doing so.

Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society.
Some of the most powerful investors in Silicon Valley want to scan your eyeball. You almost certainly shouldnt let them.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffmann, and major venture capital firm Andreesen Horowitz are all backing a recently revealed plan by a company called Worldcoin, which mashes up three big ideas: Its a cryptocurrency company, and its a Universal Basic Income project, and also its a biometric-scanning company. Worldcoin: Its a coin for the world. If, first, the world will share its irises.

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According to a recent report by Bloomberg, Worldcoins goal is to use cryptocurrency as a way to spread money more equitably around the world in a setup similar to a universal basic income. A UBI is a system in which every member of a society receives a regular government payment to cover their essential needs, potentially eliminating the need to work as automation increases. To make its proposed system of redistribution and authentication work, the company intends to use eye-scanning orbsless than 20 of which are currently being testedto confirm users identities. In essence, the test subjects are getting paid with cryptocurrency in exchange for sharing access to their irises.

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Worldcoins job postings promise to create a new global digital currency that will launch by giving a share to every single person on earth. Bloomberg explains that the company wants to use dedicated hardware devices (the mysterious orbs) to ensure the humanness and uniqueness of users, while also protecting privacy and the transparency that blockchain is founded upon. According to the head of the new startup, a former theoretical physicist named Alexander Blania, the scanner will produce a unique numerical code for each persons iris and then delete the image. But outside of that, very few details about how the orbs work and what the security measures for storing this numerical data are have been provided.

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Digital privacy experts have raised significant alarms over the use of such an authentication methodand the uses of biometric identification in general. As Cindy Cohn, the executive director of the Electronic Frontier Foundation, explains: biometric identifiers are extremely dangerous, they cant be revoked, they cant be reissued. Youre pretty much stuck with your iris, fingerprint, and DNA foreverthis isnt a password that can be changed whenever its compromised. Given the slew of data breaches of digital companies in recent years like Equifax, TransUnion, and LinkedIn, Cohn argues that the idea that [biometric information] would go to one company and never go anywhere else really ought to be laughed off the face of any presentation about any of these kinds of identifiers. While the exact privacy and security consequences of leaked iris scans may be limited currently, submitting to mass use of biometric identifiers from private companies is opening a Pandoras box that may never close again. That alone makes me scared enough to never give Worldcoin my eyeball.

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Now, thats not to say that biometric identifiers are anything new, or that theyre even bad on face value. You probably already use some every dayunlocking your iPhone or accessing an app with your face. Those uses have raised some privacy experts alarms; they are also very convenient, and thus have seen wide user adaption. Ross Schulman, senior counsel and policy technologist at New Americas Open Technology Institute, points out that theres nothing inherently bad or evil about biometric identification. (New America is a partner with Slate and Arizona State University in Future Tense.) Biometric identifiers can operate as good means of authentication, plus you cant forget them. Furthermore, even if the data were leaked from a company like Worldcoin, Schulman explains that it would be useless without the algorithm used to evaluate itits not like they just take a photo of your iris and store that somewhere, he says. The security Worldcoin is using is almost certainly a lot more complicated. But if a hacker obtained your biometric information and got access to the companys algorithm and encryption processthat is, the means of interpreting the numerical code generated by your iristhat could be an entirely different story. Plus, with Worldcoin, the company will have to maintain the data from your iris scan, whereas with an Apple, your face data is stored locally on the device, not in the cloud.

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But the topic that concerns both Schulman and Cohn is what Worldcoin plans to do with the data. Nobody is 100 percent sure, as the full details of the crypto companys operation have yet to be publicly released. Of the biometric data, Schulman asks, Can it be used somewhere else? Cohn worries that you cant just look at what Sam Altman wants to do with this thing, right now. You have to think about what future uses could be made for it? News of Worldcoin was reported before the company had planned to announce it, so much so that the top website when you google Worldcoin is for a completely different cryptocurrency called Worldcoin Global. And Worldcoin Global makes it clear that iris scanners are not in its future:

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Even if Worldcoin has the purest intentions and never sells any of the data or personal information, theres still a big player in the tech scene who might want access to your iris scans and crypto-transactionsgovernments. Cohn points out that if you think that when you provide biometric data that youre just giving it to a private company, youre probably wrong, because governments really want this information. And while Worldcoin promises to delete the photo of your iris, theres legitimate concerns over how governments might influence the company in the future. The United States has a well-documented history of getting big tech companies to hand over personal data from their users. China already uses facial recognition and biometric technology to identify people on camera systems, and recently worked with Tencenta major gaming and software companyto use facial scans to catch Chinese children playing video games after a government-instated gaming curfew.

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There are also some concerns to be raised about how effective this iris scan system will be. As Schulman points out, we dont yet know what the false positive rate is for Worldcoins system. No system is going to be perfect at identifying people every single time, and in a matter as sensitive as authentication for financial transactions, there is a huge difference between 99 percent accuracy and 99.99999 percentand so on. In fact, Matthew Greena professor at Johns Hopkins Information Security Institutetold Recode that Nobody has any idea how to build an affordable iris scanner that isnt vulnerable to some kind of spoofing.

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Even assuming the iris scan system put in place by Worldcoin is overwhelmingly effective, this seems like an especially risky move given that there are effective, cheap, and existent alternatives to biometric scans for improving user security and authentication. Biometric identification, while it is better on one dimension, is really, really bad in anotheryou have to look at these things holistically, Cohn explains. In other words, biometrics might be a great way of authenticating identity, but when considered holistically, the privacy concerns likely far outweigh the benefits. Cohn and Schulman both point out that we just dont need to use biometric information to confirm peoples digital identities. First, its important to keep your apps and software fully updated. There are also simple security solutions like dual-factor authentication. Plus, there are physical solutions like a YubiKey. These are physical devices that you carry with you and plug in to computers that support added security measures to authenticate users and can provide one-time passwords for access to accounts and systems.

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And even if more companies follow Worldcoins move toward biometric authentication, there is beginning to be pushback by activists and regulators against the use of the technology. Maine recently passed the strictest state-level facial recognition ban in the country, prohibiting the vast majority of uses of facial recognition technology by law enforcement. But its unclear whether information obtained by technology like Worldcoins would fall directly under such legislation if police in the state sought it. One of the gold standards in regulatory protections against improper uses of biometric information is Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act. Under BIPA, companies must inform users what data is being collected, the length of time collection and storage will occurboth in writingwhile also obtaining a users written consent. This includes a slew of biometric information, from iris scans to voiceprints and DNA. An extension of this law nationally could go a long way in fighting against unwanted uses of our data and biometric information domestically. (In August 2020, Sens. Jeff Merkley and Bernie Sanders introduced exactly thatthe National Biometric Information Privacy Act, though the legislation never made it out of committee.)

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Its unclear how Worldcoins iris-scanning system will make money, so it would be premature to assume their product will see wide adaptation the way the iPhone has furthered facial-identification technology. At least to me, this is one case where ease-of-use doesnt justify an unneeded technical solution whose negative externalities were likely underestimating. While we all work and grapple with how to best move forward in securing ourselves and our biometric data, in situations where you have the option to consent to the collection of sensitive information, the easiest solution is to say no.

Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society.
France imposes stricter PCR testing on travellers from Spain and Portugal



Tests must be taken within 24 hours, not 72

The huge rise in cases within Spain is naturally un-nerving the French authorities where the level of Covid is much lower and the decision has been taken to tighten the restrictions on travellers from Spain.

From this weekend, travellers from Spain and Portugal who are not vaccinated must supply a negative covid test carried out at most 24 hours before entering the country, and not 72 hours as was the case up until today.

Secretary of State for European Affairs, Clement Beaune, made the announcement this Thursday morning in an interview on the France Info station in which he reiterated his recommendation to the French who have not yet booked their vacations, that they do not go to Spain or Portugal this summer due to the large increase in Covid cases in the last month. The news is an additional blow to the tourist sector after the United Kingdom announced yesterday that it was re-imposing the quarantine requirement on unvaccinated tourists who return from the Balearic Islands.

As of Thursday morning ( July 15) the accumulated incidence rate in Spain has reached 469 cases per 100,000 of population, having quadrupled in the last month.


The Slovak Radio building includes an excellent concert hall, with one of the biggest organs in Slovakia and a recording studio.

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This article was published in Bratislava City Guide. With this detailed, pocket-sized guide, it is impossible to get lost in the Slovak capital.

It is impossible to miss the distinctive upside-down pyramid-shaped building opposite the offices of the National Bank of Slovakia. This was the headquarters of Slovakias public-service radio, designed by the Slovak architect Stefan Svetko (and others) and built between 1963-85.



Ironically, Svetko was not invited to the official opening of his building due to his critical opinions of the communist regime.



The structure is one of the first steel buildings in Slovakia, reaching 61 metres into the Bratislava sky, with an antenna adding a further 19 metres.



It contains generous inner spaces, including an excellent concert hall, with one of the biggest organs in Slovakia, and recording studios. Six radio stations still broadcast from the tower and public concerts are held.

Opening hours:

The radio is open for performances.

Ticket prices:

Admission begins at 5.

For more information on pricing visit the official website of the radio.

Slovak Radio (Slovensky rozhlas) Address: Mytna 1, Bratislava; Phone: +421 (0)2 5727-3624; Website: www.rtvs.sk

Related article

Related article Bratislava travel guide: Lost in Bratislava? Impossible with this City Guide! Read more

15. Jul 2021 at 7:00 | Compiled by Spectator staff
Ex-intelligence agents and gang members reportedly laundered money through Chinese firms

The laundered money was allegedly used for bribes during the era of Smer-led governments.

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Former members of the Slovak Information Service (SIS) intelligence agency, who are now facing several charges in corruption-related cases, and members of the organised crime group Takacovci, reportedly laundered dozens of millions of euros through China.

A team of investigative reporters working for the Aktuality.sk news website, the Investigative Centre of Jan Kuciak and the Investigace.cz website uncovered a big scheme through bank documents collected by the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), a consortium of investigative centers, media and journalists operating in Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, Central Asia and Central America.

Scheme involving Chinese firms

When Ludovir Mako, former head of the Financial Administrations Criminal Office and IT entrepreneur Michal Suchoba met in Bratislava, they usually discussed business.

Mako used to park near Suchoba and take money from the boot. In one of his testimonies Suchoba described that the money was usually brought in gigantic shopping bags, with one weighing 20-25 kilograms. Mako would usually bring at least two of them, Aktuality.sk reported.

A businessman reportedly pleaded guilty in corruption-related cases Read more

When Suchoba asked about the origin of the money, Mako reportedly said that it came from China, and explained how the scheme worked.

The money was brought to the bank in Slovakia in person, or sent via bank transfer. People with Chinese names as well as Slovaks were depositing dozens of millions of euros into accounts for several months, as the documents from OCCRP show. The money was subsequently sent to China, Hong Kong, Taiwan or South Korea, Aktuality.sk reported.

In my experience, the biggest tax frauds happen on the Chinese markets, Suchoba told the police, as quoted by Aktuality.sk.

Mako, who also faces corruption-related charges but is cooperating with the police, said that he does not know about the testimonies of Suchoba, so he cannot comment on them. Neither can he comment on criminal matters in a preparatory phase.

Bribes for police and politicians

The same companies as in this case are said to be used in so-called Laundromats  for money laundering  in big international corruption scandals.

It is possible that this system of money laundering was used by several groups trading in diesel and the organised crime group Takacovci. The police was informed about the practices by former SIS agent Frantisek Bohm, who meanwhile committed suicide. Together with Suchoba, he said that a big portion of the money was used as bribes for police or politicians.

Investigation of mafia in the police resulted in detention of a million in cash Read more

In this respect, several former police officials, as well as incumbent Governor of the National Bank of Slovakia Peter Kazimir and Hlas chair Peter Pellegrini, are mentioned.

There were several branches in the Chinese Laundromat. One was reportedly represented by Bohm and the T.P.Patriot company, where he served as a sleeping partner. They laundered money from carousel frauds with VAT. The money was then sent to Asia.

Bohm was working with a Chinese man nicknamed Kajo, who even appeared in one picture with Mako.

Another important part of the network was Lion King company, sending payments worth hundreds of thousands of euros to Asia, or former SIS member Dusan Kemeny, according to Aktuality.sk.

15. Jul 2021 at 11:29 | Compiled by Spectator staff
Former special prosecutor offered 70,000 for release. Court decides he will remain in custody

The trial of Dusan Kovacik concluded its sixth day.

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The trial of former special prosecutor Dusan Kovacik concluded its sixth day. The court also dealt with Kovaciks request for release.

The former special prosecutor, who is currently in collusive custody for preventative reasons, tried to persuade the court to change it to custody using an electronic monitoring device.

Kovacik offered to provide a financial guarantee of 70,000 if his seized property was released. Since judge Pamela Zaleska refused his request, Kovacik will remain in custody.

Former mafia boss claims he does not know Kovacik

Among the witnesses who testified on Wednesday was the former alleged boss of the Takacovci mafia gang, Lubomir Kudlicka. He stated that he does not know Kovacik.

I would never think of asking someone to impact the defendant in my favour or arrange something for him, he emphasised, as quoted by the TASR newswire.

Former special prosecutor stands trial Read more

At the trial, the former special prosecutor said that it was the first time he had seen Kudlicka in his life.

On Tuesday, a subordinate of the former chair of the Special Prosecutors Office testified.

Juraj Novocky, currently a European prosecutor representing Slovakia, said that he does not doubt that Kovacik approved the decision not to file a complaint against the release of Kudlicka from custody in 2017. The former special prosecutor was to obtain 50,000 for that according to the testimony of a former member of the Takacovci group, Matej Zeman.

A former prosecutor of the Special Prosecutors Office Blanka Godzova told the court that she received an order from Kovacik regarding this matter. She, therefore, did not lodge a complaint against the decision to dismiss. The former head of the Criminal Office of the Financial Administration, Ludovit Mako, also confirmed that he had handed over 50,000 to the former special prosecutor.

Mako testified that Kovacik leaked information

During his testimony, Mako described how he had taken parts of the investigation file from Kovacik, which was not allowed.

Kovacik was selling decisions and information, charges say Read more

Mako also testified that the former special prosecutor had helped him ward off suspicions about a plot to murder National Criminal Agency investigator Jan Curilla by making the entire investigation file available.

The National Criminal Agency detained Dusan Kovacik at the end of October last year. He resigned shortly after the indictment.

The former special prosecutor is charged with founding, conspiring and supporting a criminal group; accepting a bribe; the abuse of power by a public official; and endangering a confidential fact.

15. Jul 2021 at 17:17 | Compiled by Spectator staff
The vaccination rate of excluded communities lags behind the Slovak average. Trnava-based carmaker will suspend production again.

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Good evening. Catch up on the main news of the day in less than five minutes with the Thursday, July 15 edition of Today in Slovakia . We wish you a pleasant read.

Border-crossing rules to change for the partially vaccinated

Vladimir Lengvarsky (Source: TASR)

Slovakia will not return to the traffic light system that divided foreign countries into green, red and black according to their epidemic situation. This was suggested after the Constitutional Court suspended the effectiveness of the Public Health Authority ordinance to check whether it is in compliance with the Constitution.

Instead, the ministry will propose a similar system with slightly different rules for people vaccinated with one dose of the vaccine. The Constitutional Court's main objection is that the ministry allowed people vaccinated with only the first dose of two-dose vaccines to avoid quarantine, even though the antibodies needed to fight Covid-19 are not created until after the second dose.

From Monday, July 19, when the ordinance becomes effective, fully-vaccinated people should still be able to avoid quarantine while it will remain obligatory for unvaccinated people, as it was set on July 9. Those vaccinated with the first dose of a vaccine will be obliged to enter quarantine, but this may end once they test negative with a PCR test, which can be taken immediately. The precise wording of the new ordinance should be published on July 16.

Coronavirus and vaccination news

(Source: TASR)

PCR tests found 29 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday; 5,909 tests were performed that same day. The number of people hospitalised with confirmed or suspected Covid-19 cases remained unchanged at 105 and one death was confirmed.

on Wednesday; 5,909 tests were performed that same day. The number of people hospitalised with confirmed or suspected Covid-19 cases remained unchanged at 105 and one death was confirmed. The vaccination rate in the marginalised Roma communities and among homeless people against Covid-19 lags behind the Slovak average . "Vaccination with the first dose in such communities, according to the indications from our monitoring, has so far reached a very low level of the national average. Only 42 out of 266 municipalities and towns where the organisation operates directly are above ten percent," said Andrej Belak from Healthy Regions, a budgetary organisation of the Health Ministry.

. "Vaccination with the first dose in such communities, according to the indications from our monitoring, has so far reached a very low level of the national average. Only 42 out of 266 municipalities and towns where the organisation operates directly are above ten percent," said Andrej Belak from Healthy Regions, a budgetary organisation of the Health Ministry. The outpatient clinic Mlynska Dolina now vaccinates people with the first and second dose of the Covid-19 vaccine without registration. They vaccinate every day between 8:00 and 15:00, with Moderna from Monday to Friday and Pfizer from Saturday to Sunday.

If you like what we are doing and want to support good journalism, buy our online subscription . Thank you.

Photo of the day

(Source: TASR)

Tourists bathe in a former quarry near the village Benatina in the district of Sobrance, in which, after being flooded by groundwater, a lake was created. Thanks to the colour of the water and the environment, the lake reminds visitors of a small Croatia. Despite the ban on swimming on warm summer days, the lake is an attraction for people.

Feature story for today

Historian Martin Javor said that it is hard to comprehend what people who left overseas from Slovak territory at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries were experiencing back then.

Disembarking in New York must have been an unbelievable shock, especially when nobody had left the village for 1,000 years, he opined.

Mistaken for Native Americans. How Slovak emigrants used to arrive to the US Read more

In other news

The Antimonopoly Office initiated administrative proceedings in the matter of acquiring indirect sole control of Geosan Investicni from Kolin, Czech Republic over the company Vahostav SK.

in the matter of acquiring indirect sole control of Geosan Investicni from Kolin, Czech Republic over the company Vahostav SK. Night storms caused an energy calamity in the area of central Slovakia . More than 30,000 offtake spots had interrupted distributions of electricity for more than three minutes. In the morning, 9,000 offtake spots were still without electricity.

. More than 30,000 offtake spots had interrupted distributions of electricity for more than three minutes. In the morning, 9,000 offtake spots were still without electricity. When using Bratislava public transport , it will be necessary to press the button again when boarding and exiting starting on Monday. Currently, the door opens automatically to limit the spread of coronavirus. DPB justifies the change by the improving epidemic situation.

, it will be necessary to press the button again when boarding and exiting starting on Monday. Currently, the door opens automatically to limit the spread of coronavirus. DPB justifies the change by the improving epidemic situation. The new Agriculture Minister Samuel Vlcan replaced the director of the State Forests . Former director Tomas Cuka was replaced by Tibor Koszeghy.

. Former director Tomas Cuka was replaced by Tibor Koszeghy. Trnava-based carmaker Stellantis wrote on social media that it will suspend its production again due to a lack of components . It will not produce on July 16, with the exception of the press shop, and on July 17 and 18.

. It will not produce on July 16, with the exception of the press shop, and on July 17 and 18. Investments in the hotel sector in selected countries of Central and Eastern Europe (Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Slovakia) reached only 370 million euros last year. This is a slump of 74.2 percent from a record 1.4 billion in 2019. (SITA)

Do not miss on Spectator.sk today

Tatras tourist industry in sore need of workers after laying off employees due to Covid-19 Read more

Former special prosecutor offered 70,000 for release. Court decides he will remain in custody Read more

Ex-intelligence agents and gang members reportedly laundered money through Chinese firms Read more

Summer tourist season better than last year, but still far below pre-pandemic times Read more

Listening to music in an upside down pyramid Read more

If you have suggestions on how this news overview can be improved, you can reach us at editorial@spectator.sk.

15. Jul 2021 at 17:35 | Nina Hrabovska Francelova
Odds-on favourite Keg Stand took the lead with a quarter-pole move and made it stand up, capturing his second straight stakes event in Wednesdays (July 14) $156,320 Pennsylvania Sire Stakes at The Meadows. S I P took the other split in the event for freshman colt and gelding trotters, known as the Hickory Pride.

Global Pandemic, winner of both previous career starts, hustled to the point but yielded to Keg Stand, who entered the Hickory Pride off a Pennsylvania All-Stars triumph. The son of Bar Hopping and Palm Beach Bi kept to his task for Dexter Dunn, defeating Global Pandemic by a half length in a sharp 1:55.1. Parola Hanover finished third.

He has a really good attitude, and hes really happy all the time, said Nancy Takter, who conditions the $30,000 yearling acquisition for Black Horse Racing, Christina Takter and John Fielding. We were looking for a Bar Hopping  my dad (Jimmy Takter) trained him  and he was the one we felt looked the best. He was actually a little physically immature when we bought him, but hes a beautiful horse now.

She said Keg Stand would be pointed to either the Kentucky Sire Stakes or the Peter Haughton.

S I P made it look easy, forcing the challenging Kosher Mahoney to retreat to the pocket and defeating him by three lengths in 1:57, with Troycen third. Yannick Gingras drove the son of Bar Hopping and Barbara Brooks for trainer Ron Burke and the Burke Racing Stable, Hatfield Stables, Brixton Medical Inc. and Weaver Bruscemi LLC.

Gingras said he would have released Kosher Mahoney had his driver, Tim Tetrick, been determined to take the point.

If hed wanted to go, that was fine, but I wanted him to go a little faster, Gingras said. He was content with the two-hole, and I was happy with that, too. This colt is getting better with every start, and thats good.

$60,000 Pennsylvania Stallion Series  Two-Year-Old Trotting Colts and Geldings

Amour Deaner, Ginger Tree Brad and A One A each won a division in Wednesdays sub-feature. Amour Deaner earned his victory in impressive fashion, inching away late despite being parked every step from post 8.

Hes a funny horse, said winning driver Anthony MacDonald. Hes always been durable, so you just keep him at his work. Horses arent stupid. He knew the horse on the front was a little compromised, so once he wheeled up to his bridle, he wanted to keep going, and he did. Hes clearly a better colt than I am a driver.

Tim Twaddle trains the Father Patrick-Midgard Supremacy gelding for Thestable Amour Deaner. Patrick Hanover was second, beaten 2-1/2 lengths, with 45-1 long shot Bar Coins third.

Aaron Merriman collected four wins on the 14-race card.

Live racing at The Meadows continues Thursday (July 15), when the 14-race program features a $16,637.47 carryover in the final-race Super Hi-5. First post is 12:45 p.m.

(Meadows Standardbred Owners Association)
Tony Verruso and Christopher Petrelli were victorious in their respective splits in the North American Amateur Drivers Association trotting series Wednesday (July 14) at Monticello Raceway.

Verruso scored with Winneress in 2:00.1 in the first $6,000 division, while Petrelli and Katkin And Coke scored in 2:00.2 in the second split.

In his division, owner-driver Verruso sent Winneress to the lead, and they had command as the quarter mile timer flashed :29.3.

I had planned to follow Alan (Schwartz with Raceace), who had the pole, but when Raceace went off stride before the start, I found myself on the lead as we headed to the quarter, Verruso related. And that was a big break for us since Alan's horse was the one to beat.

Once on the lead, Verruso cruised by the 1:00.3 half two lengths in front. Still handy on the lead, Winneress trotted by three-quarters in 1:30.3, but when they rounded the final turn and headed for pay dirt, Verruso braced for challenges. They came  but none could overtake the pacesetting Winneress, who zipped home a solid one-length winner.

Because of a racing infraction, second place was awarded to With Our Luck (Joe Lee). Cinnamon Stick (Bob Krivelin) was moved up to third.

Symon Spicer trains the winner, who paid $4.60 to win.

In the second split, Chris Petrelli also used the front end. Katkin And Coke showed the way by the quarter in :28.3 and the half in :58.2. With the fast early fractions, no one took aim at the leader. When they trotted by the third stanza, Petrelli's trotter was the one to catch  but no one could, and Katkin And Coke cruised home a 2:00.2 winner. Fashion Possessed rallied to be second for Tony Beltrami, while Joe Lee finished third with Coco Hall.

Owen Eiler Jr. trains Katkin And Coke, who paid $13.00 to win, for the Bada Bing Stables.

(NAADA)
At its mid-year meeting held on June 28, The American Horse Council Board of Trustees elected 2021-22 officers. Among them is U.S. Trotting Association Director Marilyn Breuer-Bertera, who was named Vice Chair.

Breuer-Bertera, of Northville, Mich., has been on the AHC Board since 2016 and a board member of the USTA since 2010. She is chair of the Legislative Advisory Committee that supports racing states in their individual legislative efforts. She is a past director of the Michigan Harness Horsemens Association, serving as secretary of that board for 15 years.

Breuer-Bertera and her husband, Rocky Bertera, a trainer and blacksmith, race a small stable of horses in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana. She grew up on a farm in central Michigan, racing harness horses at the Michigan county fairs with her father. She also holds a B.S. in Education  Physical Education and Business Education  from Central Michigan University.

Other AHC officers named are:

Chair: Dr. Rick Mitchell (United State Equestrian Federation)

International veterinarian, Rick Mitchell, DVM, MRCVS, DACVSMR, has been named Chair of the American Horse Council Board of Trustees. Dr. Mitchell has been involved in national and international equine competitions as both a rider and veterinarian. The 2016 Olympic Games marked his sixth visit to the Olympics as an attending veterinarian for the U.S. Equestrian Team.

Dr. Mitchell has served on the AHC Board since 2012 and been chair of the AHC Health and Regulatory Committee for several years. Dr. Mitchell attended Guilford College majoring in biology then received his B.S. from North Carolina State University, and his DVM from Oklahoma State University. He is currently in private veterinary practice limited to equine medicine and surgery with an emphasis on lameness. He has been in practice with Fairfield Equine Associates in Newtown, Conn., since 1989, where he is president.

Dr. Mitchell has served on various boards, including the United States Equestrian Federation, Connecticut Veterinary Medical Association, and the American Association of Equine Practitioners. He is a founding member of the International Society of Equine Locomotor Pathology and is currently Chair of the Foundation for the Horse.

Secretary: Dr. Glenn Blodgett (American Quarter Horse Association)

Dr. Blodgetts professional contributions are immense. He has been committed to the betterment of the American Quarter Horse breed and steadfast in his involvement dating back to 1991 when he began serving Texas as an AQHA Director. He has served as chairman of the Stud Book and Registration Committee and also served on the AQHA Hall of Fame Selection Committee from 1995 to 2009. In 2011, he was elevated to director-at-large and in 2012 was elected to AQHAs Executive Committee. In 2015, Dr. Blodgett served as the AQHA Executive President.

As a member of the American Association of Equine Practitioners for 41 years he received the AAEP Distinguished Life Membership Award in 2016. Blodgett has served on the organizations Board of Directors as well as the Racing Ethics and Ethics Ad Hoc committees. In addition, Dr. Blodgett served on the first Texas Racing Commission and served as the commissions vice chairman from 1993-1995.

Dr. Blodgett has been recognized by numerous organizations. In 1990, he was named the Equine Practitioner of the Year by the Texas Veterinary Medical Association; in 1991, he received the AQHA Register of Merit Award; in 1992, he received the Joan Pew Award from the Association of Racing Commissioners International; in 2004, he was awarded an adjunct professorship in the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences at Texas A & M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences; in 2006 Oklahoma State University Graduate of Distinction in Animal Science; in 2011, he was named the Outstanding Texas A & M University Alumni; in 2012 he received the AQHA Racing Council Special Recognition Award; in 2013 Dr Blodgett was inducted into the Texas Hall of Fame; in 2017 he was awarded the Golden Spur Award by the National Ranching Heritage Center; in 2019 he was inducted into the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame.

He also continues to share his knowledge and experience with the next generation. He teaches at Texas A & M University as an adjunct graduate faculty member, and he mentors 25-30 senior veterinary students each year at the Four Sixes Ranch.

Blodgett joined the AHC Board in 2015.

Treasurer: Matt Iuliano (The Jockey Club)

Matt F. Iuliano was named executive vice president and executive director of the Jockey Club in 2009 where he oversees all matters concerning the American Stud Book and represents the Jockey Club as it interacts with industry organizations. Iuliano joined the Jockey Club staff in June 2001. Prior to that, he served in several executive capacities at Churchill Downs Inc. over the course of a 12-year stint. He was also director and operations manager of Lasma East, an Arabian horse farm at the time, in LaGrange, Ky., for seven years.

He received a bachelors degree in animal science and a masters degree in physiology and biophysics from Colorado State University before earning an MBA and a law degree from the University of Louisville.

Iuliano joined the AHC Board in 2017.

In addition to the officers, the other AHC board members include Past-Chairman Jim Gagliano (The Jockey Club), Dr. Tom Lenz (AAEP), Don Marean (USTA), Alex Waldrop (NTRA), Joe Wilson (Thoroughbred Racing Associations), Billy Smith (American Paint Horse Association), Jean Ligon (Coalition of State Horse Councils), David Foley (American Association of Equine Practitioners), Russell Williams (USTA) and Tom OMara (USEF) for the 2021-22 term.

AHC also confirmed the Chairs of the five AHC Committees:

Equine Welfare Committee: Dr. Tom Lenz, American Association of Equine Practitioners

Health & Regulatory Committee: David Foley, American Association of Equine Practitioners

Show & Competition Committee: Billy Smith, American Paint Horse Association

Racing Advisory Committee: Alex Waldrop, National Thoroughbred Racing Association

Recreation, Trails and Land Use Committee: Jean Ligon, Coalition of State Horse Councils

As the national association representing all segments of the horse industry in Washington, D.C., the American Horse Council works daily to represent equine interests and opportunities.

(American Horse Council)
Trainer Virgil Morgan Jr. and driver Chris Page doubled up with two wins each in the first leg of Buckeye Stallion Series action for two-year-old filly pacers at MGM Northfield Park on Wednesday night (July 14). Six divisions were contested, each carrying a purse of $17,500.

Morgan trainee Cruzinbytheseaside turned in the fastest mile of the night as Greg Grismore led the Downbytheseaside filly to the win. The filly sat third early in the mile before moving and drawing away to win by 1-3/4 lengths. Cruzinbytheseaside is owned by Carl Howard and Larry Wills.

Morgan picked up his second win with Bowery and Ryan Stahl in 1:55.4. The filly, also by Downbytheseaside, took the long way to the winners circle as she was hung most of the mile before winning by a length. The winner is owned by Morgan, Let It Ride Stable and Bottom Line Racing.

Page picked up his first win of the BSS with Fantasy Life for trainer Ron Burke. Fantasy Life, another Downbytheseaside filly, stopped the timer at 1:55.3 to win by a head and returned $35.60 to her backers. The filly is owned by Burke Racing Stable, Weaver Bruscemi, J&T Silva-Purnel & Libby and Beasty LLC.

Pages second win of the of the night was behind McAngel for trainer Sandy Beatty. McAngel took the overland route to victory in 1:55 getting up by a half length. The filly is owned by Lawrence Crawford.

The other winners include Future Ex Wife with Aaron Merriman for owner Craig Stein in 1:54.3. The Fear The Dragon filly won by a length.

Osceola Hanover, by Racing Hill, came home for Mike Wilder and Scott Betts in 1:56.1. The filly is owned by Timothy Betts, Nicholas Catalano and Keith Pippi.

The Buckeye Stallion Series returns to Northfield Park on Monday (July 19) for the second leg of the two-year-old trot. First race post time is 6 p.m.

(Ohio Harness Horsemen's Association)
Art Gray is this week's Harness Racing Alumni Show guest.

Gray, a former presiding judge for the New York State Racing and Gaming Commission, shares his insights and thoughts about a recent letter he sent to several horse racing media outlets regarding Bob Baffert's case with the New York Racing Association.

Gray also shares information that he received from Baffert's California peers, some thoughts on the Medina Spirit investigation, HISA, and his personal view of the newly introduced whipping rules in New Jersey.

The entire episode appears below:

(with files from the Harness Racing Alumni Show)
The Buckeye Stallion Series returns to Eldorado Scioto Downs Thursday (July 15) for the third leg of the three-year-old filly pace. Four divisions will be contested, each with a purse of $17,500.

Two previous winners will go to the post in the first race on the card. Pal O Mine Hanover (Western Vintage), with Jeremy Smith for Clarence Foulk, won at Miami Valley in 1:54.3 and has earned $22,935. Heavenissofaraway (Racing Hill), for Tony Hall and Anette Lorentzon, has only one start, a BSS win at Northfield in 1:54.

Two more winners will square off in the fifth race, as Reachthruthesky As (McArdle) with Chris Page for Lorentzon faces Cousin Margin (McArdle) with Jason Merriman for Joe Stevens. Reachthruthesky was a BSS winner at Northfield in 1:55.3, while Cousin Margie was also a winner at Northfield in 1:54.

The seventh race on the card will feature four Stallion Series winners, including two-time winner Pompatuse Of Love. The Mr Wiggles filly was a winner at Miami Valley and Northfield Park for trainer Kim Dailey. Kayne Kauffman will drive and looks for his second BSS win behind Pompatuse Of Love.

Nora Tova (Western Terror) will look for her fourth win of the year and second BSS win for Billy Davis Jr. and trainer Lonnie Graber. Diamond Official (Art Official) was a BSS winner at Miami Valley. Brett Miller is scheduled to drive for Trent Stohler. Finesse (Western Vintage) has won five times this year, including a BSS win at Miami Valley, and will have Chris Page in the bike for trainer Kent Sherman.

A total of 39 fillies are entered for 34 different trainers. Kyle Ater leads the trainers with three entries.

First race post time at Eldorado Scioto Downs is 6:15 p.m.

Action in the Buckeye Stallion Series continues Monday (July 19) from MGM Northfield Park, where two-year-old trotters compete in the second leg.

(Ohio Harness Horsemen's Association)
Dresden Raceway will be celebrating its Black heritage on Sunday, Aug. 1, with a special card of racing.

Dresden Raceway is unique as it is located on the original 100-acre property known as the Dawn Settlement, which Josiah Henson purchased in 1841.

Henson, who was the inspiration for Harriet Beecher Stowes novel Uncle Toms Cabin, owned and bred racehorses throughout his life right on the property now known as Uncle Toms Cabin.

In his will, Henson left half of the proceeds from his prized Hambletonian stallion called John to his son, Peter. Hambletonian is highly regarded as the father of horse racing in North America. This draws the conclusion that racehorses have been in the area of Dresden Raceway for over 160 years.

Dresden Raceways rich history includes many Black families that will be honoured on Aug. 1, including the List family, the McCorkle family, the Grineage family, the Simmons family, the Davis family, the Prince family, the Tanner family, Duwayne Guest and Josiah Henson himself.

This is something that is very unique to Dresden Raceway when comparing us to other tracks in Canada, said track announcer Gary Patterson. We have generations of Black families who are such a big part of our history.

Patterson added, The contribution that these families have made to harness racing is huge, but the contribution they have made to Dresden Raceway is exponentially greater because they are local and were the building blocks of our track.

Post time will be 1 p.m. on Aug. 1. All fans who wish to attend the day are asked to register through the Dresden Raceway Facebook page or email [email protected].

(Dresden Raceway)
The Prince County Horsemen's Club will hold their annual general meeting on Wednesday (July 21) at The Oval at Red Shores Summerside.

The meeting is open to all 2020 members in good standing, and a list of individuals eligible to vote will be posted at the door.

Doors will open at 7 p.m. ADT, and the meeting will start at 7:30 p.m. All required COVID-19 protocols will be enforced.

(PCHC)
Monthly child tax credit payments start landing in families bank accounts on Thursday.

On Thursday evening, U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger invites the public to learn more about the monthly credit expanded by the American Rescue Plan as well as other issues facing the regions families, small businesses and communities.

The Central Virginia lawmaker will host a telephone town hall at 6 p.m. Participants can call in or watch via livestream on her website or Facebook page.

Spanberger will share information about the help the credit promises to provide to Virginia parents and children. Earlier this year, she voted for the payments as part of the American Rescue Plan. Experts estimate the credit could lift more than 5 million kids out of poverty.

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During the town hall, the Democrat said she will answer constituents questions about their challenges during Virginias economic recovery and their ideas for improving the Seventh District.
Thats the goal of this whole night is that ... we try to do a fun activity for kids and families, he said. Theyre able to showcase what services they might provide as an organization, but also provide a fun night for the family.

For law enforcement, he said, National Night Out gives police and other agencies an opportunity to interact with the community.

We dont have a magic wand to solve crimes, he said. We work with the community day in and day out, both in the taking of reports of crimes and the investigation. So having that relationship with your local law enforcement agency is a vital one, he said.

There are also times, he said, parents may see a police officer and make idle threats, such as if a child is bad, police will arrest them, which gives kids a negative view of law enforcement. National Night Out is a chance to help counteract some of those negative impressions people may have, and build relationships with family, parents, grandparents and others for the community.

Businesses or organizations interested in participating in National Night Out can email Briggs via policeinfo@scottsbluff.org or contact her at 308-630-6279. If she is not available, people can leave a voicemail.
Simply put, Billy & The Downliners present a non-stop, high energy, rock and roll extravaganza. Youll have the chance to hear your favorite rock songs played with the energy and enthusiasm that these classic gems deserve. Billy and his dynamic band, The Downliners, will take you on a journey from the 50s rock and roll of Elvis, Buddy Holly and the Everly Brothers, to the psychedelic 60s of the Rolling Stones, The Beatles and a string of one-hit wonders. Billy and his amazing band also capture the sounds of the 70s with Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles and the piano man  Billy and Elton. From American Rock to British Invasion and everything in-between, Billy & The Downliners have the unique ability to take on the personality of the audience, making each performance a one of a kind!
Gering Public Schools does not have plans to revise or adopt health standards for the upcoming academic year, according to a district statement.

Gering Public Schools Board of Education and district administration continue to monitor the proposed health standards shared by the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE). It is important to note that these standards from NDE are still in draft form and the decision to adopt them, once finalized, lives at the local school board level, the statement reads. GPS leadership also understands that there are many passionate beliefs and perspectives regarding these draft health standards.

As these standards are finalized and reach the local level where school boards decide what to adopt, GPS welcomes families and public input at the board meetings.

Charles Jones, Banner County School principal, said the district is awaiting the second draft.

Since they are revamping it even from the original draft that was sent out, we dont really have a stance at this time, he said. Well wait to see how it plays out.

Kimball Public Schools Superintendent Trevor Anderson said the district is also waiting for the second draft before deciding whether they support or oppose the standards.
Despite changes to the law, a Texas federal court has been a bridge for "patent trolls," critics say
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Purple Heart Homes said it was just being a good neighbor when it donated and installed a ramp at the home of Tariq Lowery, one of the victims of the drive-by shootings on June 28.

Tariq was injured when he was shot in the leg during the shooting that killed his cousin, AhMiyahh Howell. Another child was injured in another shooting soon after.

Brad Borders, the vice president of community outreach at Purple Heart Homes, said it was simply a matter of PHH seeing a way they could help.

Its outside of our mission. Our mission is for veterans, were not shifting our mission, but this was a critical need in our community, Borders said. Lo and behold, we had a metal ramp that was donated to us, one that is super easy to put in and doesnt take a lot of time. And it was the perfect width and length they needed at their house.

Borders said he had met several officers through the trauma recovery classes for first responders at Western Avenue Baptist, which helped in building his relationship with the Statesville Police Department.

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He said Community Resource Coordinator Pam Navey made him aware that Lowreys family home wasnt wheelchair accessible. While PHH focuses on veterans, he knew there was a role for it to play.
And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.  Luke 24.27

Recently, a popular evangelical megachurch pastor in Atlanta said that the Christian faith needs to unhitch itself from the Old Testament, because it presents so many problems for modern man coming to faith in Jesus Christ.

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I disagree. First of all, we as a modern society are not as nearly advanced as we like to think we are, and the Old Testament story is not nearly as backwards as some might like to say it is. Second, what are we to make of Jesus, who always went to the synagogue and taught from the Old Testament Scriptures; and who also gave us the Sermon on the Mount based on the Ten Commandments? And what are we to make of what Luke said about Jesus explaining who he was from the Old Testament Scriptures?
The family of an unarmed Black man who was fatally shot by sheriff's deputies in North Carolina says he died because of the officers' intentional and reckless disregard of his life, according to a $30 million civil rights lawsuit filed Wednesday.

Andrew Brown Jr. was killed April 21 by Pasquotank County Sheriffs deputies while they were serving drug-related warrants at his Elizabeth City home.

The deputies surrounded Brown in his BMW before his car backed up and moved forward. They fired several shots at and into his vehicle. He was killed by a bullet to the back of his head.

All individual defendants did so with shocking and willful indifference to Browns rights and with conscious awareness that it could cause Brown severe bodily harm or death, according to the lawsuit filed in a federal court in eastern North Carolina.
"Love is patient," it reads. "Love is kind."

After looking into some other options, Colossians 3:12-14, seemed like a good fit, closing with, "... over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."

I compiled my notes into a Google doc, made a print and packed it in a red folder for my flight to South Florida.

When I arrived at the Postcard Inn Beach Resort and Marina in Islamorada, where the wedding was to take place on the beach, I got even more excited. And nervous. I was confident I would do OK, but I wanted to crush it and validate the faith Ryan and Nat had placed in me.

The wedding planner, Elizabeth Seligman, gave me some valuable tips, such as when to ask everyone to rise and when to sit.

"When you say, 'You may now kiss the bride,' get out of the way so you're not in the picture," she said.

Got it.

I hope.

I feared forgetting to walk away and spoiling the image.

As Ryan and Natalie gathered with a little more than 100 family members and friends on a sun-splashed afternoon, I prayed that my preparation matched the magnitude of the moment.
Tazewell, Va.  A Baptist Valley couple is facing child endangerment charges as a result of their infants death.

Tazewell County Sheriff Brian Hieatt said Evan Ray Stanford and Kayla Nicole Stanford were charged after their child died at Carilion Tazewell Community Hospital from what authorities believe was an overdose of suboxone and methadone.

Hieatt said the child died April 22 and his officers had been investigating the incident since then while awaiting a report from the state medical examiner. The criminal complaint filed against the Stanfords said the cause of death was toxic effects of Buprenorphine, (Suboxone), and methadone.

The complaint also states Sgt. Michelle Conklin interviewed both parents and they admitted touching the infants face and mouth with suboxone residue on their hands. The complaint also states a witness said she saw methadone delivered to the mother three weeks prior to the death.

It also says the parents stated the child was with them the entire day and night April 22 and was in the room with them from the time he went to sleep until they found him unresponsive. Child endangerment is a class six felony and carries a potential sentence of from one to five years.
Clean Science IPO allotment status check: The company is coming off a massive success with its initial public offering being subscribed 93.41 times. That also means there are a huge number of investors waiting eagerly to find out their IPO allotment status. Clean Science and Technology is a speciality chemical manufacturer that is in the process of raising funds and by the last day, its subscription jumped to 93.41 times. Investors can now go online and check their share allotment - as per the red herring prospectus Clean Science IPO allotment status was to happen on 14 July. So, here is how investors can do a Clean Science and Technology IPO allotment status check online:

Investors need to go to a website first called Link Intime India - click here. There, investors need to locate and click on a few tabs before they are shown their allotment status. So, click on the box shown in the centre and it will show various names there in the drop-down, select Clean Science and Technology Limited  IPO, if it is there or else wait. If it is there you need to type in your PAN, application number or DP Client ID. Thereafter, you can submit the form. If you are lucky, your Clean Science IPO allotment status will be provided to you.

Also read: Looking for a smartphone? Check Mobile Finder here.

All about Clean Science and Technology IPO - Highlights:

1. Clean Science IPO received bids for 1,14,92,30,160 shares against 1,23,02,672 shares on offer, data on BSE showed.

2. Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs) segment was subscribed 156.37 times, non-institutional investors 206.43 times, and Retail Individual Investors (RIIs) nine times.

3. The 1,546.62-crore initial public offering (IPO) was entirely an offer for sale (OFS) by existing Clean Science and Technology promoters and other shareholders.

4. Clean Science and Technology had raised 464 crore from anchor investors.

5. The offer was managed by Kotak Mahindra Capital Company Limited, Axis Capital Limited, and JM Financial Limited.

6. Clean Science and Technology equity shares of the company will be listed on both the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).

The Pune-based Clean Science and Technology manufactures specialty chemicals like performance chemicals, pharmaceutical intermediates, and FMCG chemicals.

Company's customers include manufacturers and distributors in India as well as other international markets, including China, Europe, the US, Taiwan, Korea, and Japan.
Crawler (RoboPlanet), Aerial drone (UIB), Pioneer (Blueye). Credit: BugWright2

Different types of RITs were recently tested on a double-skin supramax bulk cargo carrier owned by Greek shipper Oceanbulk Maritime. The testing was carried out by Belgian certification company Bureau Veritas that established proof of concept and confirmed the operational purpose of the remote tools.

Greek technical services specialist Glafcos Marine provided and operated the RITs, which included an aerial drone, magnetic crawlers and a miniature remotely operated vehicle (ROV). Glafcos Marine is a partner in the EU-funded BugWright2 project working to bring RITs closer to market.

Inspecting ship holds, structure and tanks

The inspection took place during the bulk cargo carrier's recent visit to the Neorion shipyard on the island of Syros, Greece, for work on the stern requiring a specific ballast condition. The miniature ROV was used to perform the underwater inspections of flooded tanks, eliminating the need for deballasting. Additionally, the holds and structure were examined by the aerial drone and magnetic crawlers equipped with ultrasonic thickness measurement (UTM) sensors. These two technologies saved time and money by rendering cherry pickers (cranes with platforms attached to the end), staging and rope access unnecessary. By moving across both vertical and inverted planes, the drones and crawlers also provided the steadiness needed for close-up pictures and UTM readings.

Paillette Palaiologou, Vice President Hellenic, Black Sea & Adriatic Zone for Bureau Veritas, was impressed by the results. "The quality, resolution and detail of the imagery are excellent. We also now have a better understanding for the potential to combine, for example, drones and crawlers. We can make an initial overall survey with a droneeven in harder to reach areas, such as cross deck penetrations, as we did in this case. In addition, if closer examination is deemed necessary a crawler can be used for more detailed imagery," she reported in a news item posted on "Hellenic Shipping News Worldwide."

Palaiologou went on to explain why such RITs are important: "They help with accuracy, speed and record-keeping in all conditions. Our surveyors and clients will increasingly be able to focus on analyzing the information and data acquiredwith greater safety, at greater overall speed and at less expense, rather than the challenges of acquiring what we need to know."

Oceanbulk Maritime's Milena Pappas commented on the RIT testing: "During the tests on site, it was evident that robotic services could be a very useful and efficient tool, especially in difficult areas (upper parts of cargo holds) and during adverse conditions (full ballast tanks). By utilizing drones and ROVs, all close up inspections and UTM could be completed in a much safer, efficient and quicker way."

This effort furthers the BugWright2 (Autonomous Robotic Inspection and Maintenance on Ship Hulls and Storage Tanks) project's goal to change the European landscape of robotics for infrastructure inspection and maintenance. Glafcos Marine co-founder and managing director Leonidas Drikos described Bureau Veritas' testing initiative as "a big step, actually the biggest so far, towards shifting ship inspections from purely human to combined human-robot execution."

Explore further Overcoming rough seas hurdle in offshore wind farm maintenance

More information: BugWright2 project website: BugWright2 project website: www.bugwright2.eu/
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Data privacy is an important topic in the digitalised economy. Recent policy changes have aimed to strengthen users' control over their own data. Yet new research from Copenhagen Business School finds designers of cookie banners can affect users' privacy choices by manipulating the choice architecture and with simple changes can increase absolute consent by 17%.

A website cookie banner is the consent management tool that allows users to give their consent to process their personal data. Given the current legal framework, users need to actively provide consent.

The manipulations of the banner can therefore affect the user decision about whether to make an active choice at all and what the outcome of this choice would be, accept or decline consent. The research findings provide empirical evidence that shows people's data privacy decisions can be easily manipulated.

"Choice architecture should be designed to benefit the user to make more informed decisions, which are essential for free markets to work efficiently. Exploiting psychological mechanisms in design, to manipulate users to the benefit of the website owner is problematic," says Associate Professor Jan Michael Bauer from the department of Management, Society and Communication, Copenhagen Business School.

"Detailed user data has become valuable as it allows to better understand customer behavior and improve the targeting of advertisements. Users and customers deserve and should demand a choice environment that allows their own need satisfaction and not one that benefits the website owner," adds Bauer.

The research highlights that the ability of website owners to manipulate the outcome of user privacy decisions is at odds with the ideals of the ePrivacy Directive and GDPR.

The research paper is published in the Computers in Human Behavior journal.

Privacy manipulation

When the researchers started the project in 2019, there was very little academic research about the impact of cookie banner design elements on acceptance rates. And few guides and rules were available beyond a case ruling about the use of pre-ticked boxes in cookie banners.

The empirical evidence supporting the study's conclusions was gathered through an experiment testing different banner designs on a public website. The researchers analyzed how their manipulations affected 1493 user interactions with the cookie banner and the resulting privacy choice, i.e., whether to give or decline consent.

While several official guides on banner design have been published since the experiment was conducted, the researchers argue that website owners remain in a privileged position.

"If they would use their expertise and design skills to elicit their user's privacy preferences in a neutral way, we would potentially welcome this and not have a problem. Nudging users to make a privacy choice is potentially a good thing, manipulating them into providing consent is not and should be opposed," states Bauer.

Protecting user data

Initially, the researchers wanted to create awareness and action by policy makers and acknowledge that the problems of manipulative choice architecture in the digital spacealso called dark patternsremain important topics for debate. They introduce a conceptual distinction between choice-making architecture and choice outcome architecture that might help to have a more structured debate.

"We see this analysis of the choice-making architecture and a choice outcome architecture as a helpful deconstruction of this privacy decision when it comes to protecting user data," says Jan Michael Bauer.

The choice-making architecture captures all elements of the choice environment that might deter or encourage people from/to make a decisione.g., the complexity of the choice or required effort. The researchers argue there are many cases in which it might be beneficial to nudge people to decide without affecting the outcome (e.g., organ donation and elections). Increasing choice-making is however not the same as nudging people towards one choice outcome.

"In some cases, we might be more confident that selecting one specific option is likely to make users better off and target the choice outcome itself (e.g., cigarettes unhealthy foods). However, interventions that favor a specific outcome is suspect to manipulation and warrants more scrutiny," says Bauer.

Learning about dark patterns

While regulators hopefully catch up with the digital world, the researchers conclude that it will be up to the consumer to detect, avoid and resist manipulative choice architecture. "One way forward for users and consumers could be to learn about the broader issues surrounding dark patterns and the tricks used in websites and apps to hopefully become less responsive to these manipulations. Even though these manipulations are often subtle, they should be called out," adds Bauer.

"One helpful approach can be to treat aggressive prompts and design element that favor a specific choice outcome as a warning sign to pause and reflect: do I really want to share my data? An issue not limited to data privacy as many websites and online shops gear up with dark patterns in the fight for user attention and to increase sales," concludes Bauer.

More information: Jan M. Bauer et al, Are you sure, you want a cookie?  The effects of choice architecture on users' decisions about sharing private online data, Computers in Human Behavior (2021). Journal information: Computers in Human Behavior Jan M. Bauer et al, Are you sure, you want a cookie?  The effects of choice architecture on users' decisions about sharing private online data,(2021). DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2021.106729

Provided by Copenhagen Business School
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

The pandemic has taught us that almost all companies have to sell on the internet. Bots are a technology that facilitates e-commerce. They are digital assistants that can answer customer queries about products that are sold or help to locate them, as well as supporting customers in the purchasing process. "In whatever language; and moreover, chatbots never get tired: They're available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year," said Jordi Cabot, the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC) researcher who created Xatkit, a company specialized in their development. This technology has existed for some time in big companies and is now also helping improve the digital competitiveness of SMEs. Indeed, the introduction of bots is expanding: this type of artificial intelligence already generates over 40% of the traffic on the internet.

Xatkit is a new UOC spin-off which offers pre-trained bots for e-commerce. Once installed in the shops, they read the products that are sold and are automatically set up to begin to help the customers who arrive. They are also prepared to continue learning by themselves. "Our bots can do any task that a human salesperson would do, from recommending products or showing offers to notifying the shop when clients ask for a product that they are not currently offering," said Cabot.

Beyond e-commerce: digital assistants using text or the phone

Digital assistants do not just simulate human conversations on chat windows (so-called chatbots), but can also be used to answer telephone calls or comments made on websites or social media in any language. At present, Xatkit creates bots that can understand and speak in English, Spanish and Catalan.

The technological improvement of bots means that these assistants can currently engage in "complex conversations and process management tasks, processing customers' requests," explained Jordi Cabot. This technology allows customer service costs to be optimized. Cabot, a member of the research faculty at ICREA and leader of the research group SOM Research Lab of the UOC's Internet Interdisciplinary Institute (IN3), who developed Xatkit with Gwendal Daniel, a researcher from his group, indicated that the key to the development of digital assistants is that they have a specialized platform to define their functionalities and guarantee the quality of the training of the bot, testing and monitoring the behavior in order to improve its effectiveness.

Bots created with open-source software

The Xatkit team works with open-source software, making it easy for clients to set up the digital assistants. Its platform is committed to integrating state-of-the-art technology in processing and understanding natural language to optimize the quality of the conversations. In addition to understanding what the client says, Xatkit summarizes and automatically translates texts, and also analyzes the feelings of the buyers. "The bot can figure out whether the client is annoyed and adapt its answer to the situation," explained Jordi Cabot.

From research to entrepreneurship

The initiative of the UOC researchers to develop conversation bots began as a research project but, unlike other research, "we thought that, in view of the subject and the innovation behind it, it could help many organizations and have a bigger social impact," indicated Cabot. Thus, the creation of this new spin-off from the UOC's research activity allows the research group's technological expertise on digital assistants to reach the market. "Xatkit takes advantage of the state-of-the-art technology that we generate in the research to develop more innovative solutions and the research team learns from the application of the technology in real cases, thanks to the creation of the company," said the researcher.

"We recommend combining the role of researcher with that of entrepreneur, because this improves the quality and impact of the research," according to Cabot and other researchers in an article published for the 8th International Virtual Workshop on Software Engineering Research and Industrial Practice. Faced with the lack of more investment by industry in R&I, the experts said that as researchers they can "become the partners that companies need, and thus moreover bring the ideas of the research to the market."

The researchers are committed to promoting open resources, strengthening the triangle of collaboration between research, SMEsas technology suppliersand end clientswhich could be big corporations -, or as a fruitful relationship which provides real cases of technological development. "If as researchers we don't find the appropriate SME to collaborate with our research, we create it, like we did with Xatkit," they concluded.

Spin-offs from UOC research activity

At present the UOC has four spin-offs. Before Xatkit, it created Immersium Studio, specialized in the development of immersive technology (virtual, augmented and mixed reality); Care Respite, with the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, specialized in dependent people monitoring technology for carers; and Open Evidence, an international quantitative consultancy that promotes operating strategies and models for decision-making processes through data-based computational intelligence.

The Xatkit project won the jury award at Spin UOC 2021, the UOC's annual entrepreneurship, innovation and knowledge transfer program, promoted by the Hubbik platform.

Explore further Teaching chatbots regular human language

More information: Jordi Cabot et al, All Researchers Should Become Entrepreneurs, 2021 IEEE/ACM 8th International Workshop on Software Engineering Research and Industrial Practice (SER&IP) (2021). Jordi Cabot et al, All Researchers Should Become Entrepreneurs,(2021). DOI: 10.1109/SER-IP52554.2021.00019

Provided by Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)
In this Aug. 28, 2014 file photo, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks at the launch of a campaign aimed at opening millions of bank accounts for poor Indians in New Delhi, India. India's new social media regulations is at the heart of a standoff that puts digital platforms like Twitter and Facebook under direct government oversight. The new rules, in the works for years and announced in February 2021, apply to social media companies, streaming platforms and digital news publishers. The new rules make it easier for the government to order social media platforms with over 5 million users to take down content that is deemed unlawful. Critics say Modi's Hindu nationalist government is imposing what they call a climate of "digital authoritarianism." Credit: AP Photo/Saurabh Das, File

It began in February with a tweet by pop star Rihanna that sparked widespread condemnation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's handling of massive farmer protests near the capital, souring an already troubled relationship between the government and Twitter.

Moving to contain the backlash, officials hit Twitter with multiple injunctions to block hundreds of tweets critical of the government. Twitter complied with some and resisted others.

Relations between Twitter and Modi's government have gone downhill ever since.

At the heart of the standoff is a sweeping internet law that puts digital platforms like Twitter and Facebook under direct government oversight. Officials say the rules are needed to quell misinformation and hate speech and to give users more power to flag objectionable content.

Critics of the law worry it may lead to outright censorship in a country where digital freedoms have been shrinking since Modi took office in 2014.

Police have raided Twitter's offices and have accused its India chief, Manish Maheshwari, of spreading "communal hatred" and "hurting the sentiments of Indians." Last week, Maheshwari refused to submit to questioning unless police promised not to arrest him.

On Wednesday, the company released a transparency report showing India had submitted most government information requestslegal demands for account informationto Twitter. It accounted for a quarter of worldwide requests in July- December last year.

In this Sept. 27, 2015, file photo, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, right, hugs Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi at Facebook in Menlo Park, Calif. Officials say a sweeping internet law, announced in February, that puts digital platforms like Twitter and Facebook under direct government oversight are needed to quell misinformation and hate speech and to give users more power to flag objectionable content. Critics of the law worry it may lead to outright censorship in a country where digital freedoms have been shrinking since Modi took office in 2014, many calling it "digital authoritarianism." Facebook's WhatsApp, which has more than 500 million users in India, has sued the government, saying breaking encryption, which continues for now, would "severely undermine the privacy of billions of people who communicate digitally." Credit: AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File

It was the first time since Twitter started publishing the report in 2012 that the U.S. was displaced as the "top global requester," it added.

"India's plans for the internet appear to be like that of a closed ecosystem like China," said Raheel Khursheed, co-founder of Laminar Global and Twitter India's former head of Politics, Policy and Government. "Twitter's case is the basis of a touchstone on how the future of the internet will be shaped in India."

Tech companies are facing similar challenges in many countries. China has been aggressively tightening controls on access to its 1.4 billion-strong market, which is already largely sequestered by the Communist Party's Great Firewall and by U.S. trade and technology sanctions.

India is another heavyweight, with 900 million users expected by 2025.

"Any internet company knows that India is probably the biggest market in terms of scale. Because of this, the option of leaving India is like the button they'd press if they had no options left," said tech analyst Jayanth Kolla.

The new rules, in the works for years and announced in February, apply to social media companies, streaming platforms and digital news publishers. They make it easier for the government to order social media platforms with over 5 million users to take down content that is deemed unlawful. Individuals now can request that companies remove material. If a government ministry flags content as illegal or harmful it must be removed within 36 hours. Noncompliance could lead to criminal prosecutions.

In this Monday, Dec. 14, 2020, file photo, a protesting farmer rests on his tractor trailer blocking a highway with other farmers at the Delhi- Haryana border, on the outskirts of New Delhi, India. Relations between Twitter and Modi's government have gone downhill ever since a tweet by pop star Rihanna in February sparked widespread condemnation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's handling of massive farmer protests near the capital. At the heart of the standoff is a sweeping internet law that puts digital platforms like Twitter and Facebook under direct government oversight. Critics of the law worry it may lead to outright censorship in a country where digital freedoms have been shrinking since Modi took office in 2014. Credit: AP Photo/Manish Swarup, File

Tech companies also must assign staff to answer complaints from users, respond to government requests and ensure overall compliance with the rules.

Twitter missed a three-month deadline in May, drawing a strong rebuke from the Delhi High Court. Last week, after months of haggling with the government, it appointed all three officers as required.

"Twitter continues to make every effort to comply with the new IT Rules 2021. We have kept the Government of India apprised of the progress at every step of the process," the company said in a statement to the Associated Press.

Apar Gupta, executive director of the Internet Freedom Foundation, says he worries the rules will lead to numerous cases against internet platforms and deter people from using them freely, leading to self-censorship. Many other critics say Modi's Hindu nationalist government is imposing what they call a climate of "digital authoritarianism."

"If it becomes easier for user content to be taken down, it will amount to the chilling of speech online," Gupta said.

The government insists the rules will benefit and empower Indians.

A woman looks at the Twitter page of pop star Rihanna in New Delhi, India, Thursday, July 15, 2021. It began in February with a tweet by Rihanna that sparked widespread condemnation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's handling of massive farmer protests near the capital, souring an already troubled relationship between the government and Twitter. Moving to contain the backlash, officials hit Twitter with multiple injunctions to block hundreds of tweets critical of the government. In the same month, the Indian government announced the new rules, in the works for years, that apply to social media companies, streaming platforms and digital news publishers. Credit: AP Photo/Manish Swarup

"Social media users can criticize Narendra Modi, they can criticize government policy, and ask questions. I must put it on the record straight away . . . But a private company sitting in America should refrain from lecturing us on democracy" when it denies its users the right to redress, the ex-IT minister, Ravi Shankar Prasad, told the newspaper The Hindu last month.

Despite the antagonisms between Modi and Twitter, he has been an enthusiastic user of the platform in building popular support for his Bharatiya Janata Party. His government has also worked closely with the social media giant to allow Indians to use Twitter to seek help from government ministries, particularly during health emergencies. Bharatiya Janata Party's social media team has meanwhile been accused of initiating online attacks against critics of Modi.

Still, earlier internet restrictions had already prompted the Washington-based Freedom House to list India, the world's most populous democracy, as "partly free" instead of "free" in its annual analysis.

The law announced in February requires tech companies to aid police investigations and help identify people who post "mischievous information." That means messages must be traceable, and experts say this it could mean end-to-end encryption would not be allowed in India.

Facebook's WhatsApp, which has more than 500 million users in India, has sued the government, saying breaking encryption, which continues for now, would "severely undermine the privacy of billions of people who communicate digitally."

Officials say they only want to trace messages that incite violence or threatening national security. WhatsApp says it can't selectively do that.

In this Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021, file photo, India's Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, left, and Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar address a press conference announcing new regulations for social media companies and digital streaming websites in New Delhi, India. It began in February with a tweet by pop star Rihanna that sparked widespread condemnation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's handling of massive farmer protests near the capital, souring an already troubled relationship between the government and Twitter. Credit: AP Photo/Manish Swarup, File

"It is like you are renting out an apartment to someone but want to look into it whenever you want. Who would want to live in a house like that?" said Khursheed of Laminar Global.

The backlash over online freedom of expression, privacy and security concerns comes amid a global push for more data transparency and localization, said Kolla, the tech expert.

Germany requires social media companies to devote local staff and data storage to curbing hate speech. Countries like Vietnam and Pakistan are drafting legislation similar to India's. In Turkey, social media companies complied with a broad mandate for removing content only after they were fined and faced threats to their ad revenues.

Instead of leaving, some companies are fighting the new rules in the courts, where at least 13 legal challenges have been filed by news publishers, media associations and individuals. But such cases can stretch for months or even years.

Mishi Choudhary, a technology lawyer and founder of India's Software Freedom Law Center, says that under the rules, social media platforms might lose their safe harbor protection, which shields them from legal liability over user-generated content. Courts have to decide that on a case-by-case basis, she said. And their legal costs would inevitably soar.

"You know how it is in India. The process is the punishment," Choudhary said. "And until we get to a place where the courts will actually come and tell us what the legal position is and determine those legal positions, it is open season for tech backlash."

Explore further India says Twitter knowingly not complying with local laws

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

A pilot has filed suit against Delta Air Lines, alleging the company stole his idea for a text messaging platform used by crews.

The messaging app, which was rolled out in 2018, is used by gate agents, flight dispatchers, pilots, flight attendants and other workers who hustle to get planes out on time. They text updates on the status of everything from cleaning, catering, fueling and loading bags.

It replaced a decades-old mish-mash of communications by two-way radios, jetway phones, word of mouth and jaunts down the jet bridge to relay messages, according to Delta.

The suit by pilot Craig Alexander was filed in DeKalb County state court. In it, he says he shared his idea for a crew messaging app with the company before Delta's app was introduced. The complaint names Delta, CEO Ed Bastian, chief information officer Rahul Samant and other executives as defendants.

The lawsuit is seeking damages estimated at more than $1 billion for "stolen trade secrets and the unjust enrichment to Delta."

"Captain Alexander spent countless hours and more than $100,000 of his own money developing this innovative, game-changing communications platform for Delta, only to have his own employer steal it right out from under him like a thief in the night," Morgan & Morgan attorneys John Morgan and Keenan Nix said in a written statement.

Delta, for its part, issued a statement saying: "While we take the allegations specified in Mr. Alexander's Complaint seriously, they are not an accurate or fair description of Delta's development of its internal crew messaging platform."

Alexander, a Delta first officer on the Boeing 767 and 757, alleges he originally designed a text messaging system called "QrewLive" for crew members to resolve pre-flight departure issues. He said he presented it to Delta executives over several years, starting in 2014.

He alleges he received "verbal assurances that Delta would purchase his innovative text messaging platform." But, in 2017, Delta told him the text messaging system did not fit its needs.

The following year, Delta announced the launch of its Flight Family Communication app.

Alexander alleges the Delta platform was developed by using QrewLive, "even though the entire project was subject to a confidential non-disclosure agreement."

The complaint also alleges the Flight Family Communication app is saving Delta "hundreds of millions of dollars per year" by increasing on-time departures.

In 2018, Delta announced it had seen a 65% increase in its ability to get time-crunched flights out on time when there were circumstances such as late-arriving aircraft.

On an average day, Delta said about 11,000 messages were sent using the Flight Family Communication platformand even more when bad weather disrupts flights.

Delta said the app was one of a number of digital tools it had rolled out for employees over a couple of years, including a handheld tool for gate agents to help customers with seat changes and rebookings, handheld devices for flight attendants and a weather app for pilots.

Explore further Delta goes shopping for deals on the used-airplane lot

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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

A Picasso painting is to be sold in tokenised form, allowing investors to buy "shares" in the work, Swiss digital asset bank Sygnum announced Thursday.

Sygnum joined forces with Artemundi, a fund specialising in art investments, to offer the shares in Picasso's 1964 work "Fillette au Beret".

"This marks the first time the ownership rights in a Picasso, or any artwork, are being broadcast onto the public blockchain by a regulated bank, enabling investors to purchase and trade 'shares' in the artwork called Art Security Tokens (ASTs)," Sygnum said.

The value of the work, which measures 65 by 54 centimetres (29 by 24 inches), is estimated at four million Swiss francs (3.6 million euros, $4.2 million), the Zurich bank said in a statement.

As on stock exchanges, investors will be able to buy and sell shares in the painting on a secondary market through blockchain technology.

ASTs will go on sale for a minimum subscription of 5,000 Swiss francs, Sygnum said, stressing that it is regulated by Switzerland's financial market watchdog FINMA.

The work itself will be stored in a highly secure location, Sygnum said.

"Tokenisation lowers the barriers to art investment and opens up the art market to a broad range of new investors," Sygnum's director general and co-founder Mathias Imbach said in the statement.

In 2019, FINMA gave Sygnum permission to operate as a bank, making it one of the world's first crypto-banks.

Explore further Cryptocurrency wins votes of confidence from Texas governor, Department of Banking

 2021 AFP
This Feb 23, 2019, file photo shows the inside of a computer in Jersey City, N.J. The Biden administration will offer rewards up to $10 million for information leading to the identification of foreign state-sanctioned malicious cyber activity against critical U.S. infrastructure, including ransomware attacks. The administration is launching the website stopransomware.gov to offer the public resources for countering the threat. Credit: AP Photo/Jenny Kane, File

The State Department will offer rewards up to $10 million for information leading to the identification of anyone engaged in foreign state-sanctioned malicious cyber activity, including ransomware attacks, against critical U.S. infrastructure. A task force set up by the White House will coordinate efforts to stem the ransomware scourge.

The Biden administration is also out with a website, stopransomware.gov, that offers the public resources for countering the threat and building more resilience into networks, a senior administration official told reporters.

In another move Thursday, the Treasury Department's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network will work with banks, technology companies and others on better anti-money-laundering efforts for cryptocurrency and more rapid tracing of ransomware proceeds, which are paid in virtual currency.

Officials are hoping to seize more extortion payments in ransomware cases, as the FBI did in recouping most of the $4.4 million ransom paid by Colonial Pipeline in May.

The rewards come from the State Department's Rewards for Justice program. It will offer a tips-reporting mechanism on the dark web to protect sources who might identify cyber attackers and/or their locations, and reward payments may include cryptocurrency, the agency said in a statement.

The administration official would not comment on whether the U.S. government had a hand in Tuesday's online disappearance of REvil, the Russian-linked gang responsible for a July 2 supply chain ransomware attack that crippled well over 1,000 organizations globally by targeting Florida-based software provider Kaseya. Ransomware scrambles entire networks of data, which criminals unlock when they get paid.

In this July 3, 2021 photo, a closed Coop supermarket store in the suburb of Vastberga, Stockholm. Cybersecurity teams worked feverishly Sunday July 4, 2021, to stem the impact of the single biggest global ransomware attack on record, with some details emerging about how the Russia-linked gang responsible breached the company whose software was the conduit. The Swedish grocery chain Coop said most of its 800 stores would be closed for a second day Sunday because their cash register software supplier was crippled. Credit: Jonas Ekstromer/TT via AP, File

Cybersecurity experts say REvil may have decided to drop out of sight and rebrand under a new name, as it and several other ransomware gangs have done in the past to try to throw off law enforcement.

Another possibility is that Russian President Vladimir Putin actually heeded President Joe Biden's warning of repercussions if he didn't rein in ransomware criminals, who enjoy safe harbor in Russia and allied states.

That seemed improbable, however, given Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov's statement to reporters Wednesday that he was unaware of REvil sites disappearing.

"I don't know which group disappeared where," he said. He said the Kremlin deems cybercrimes "unacceptable" and meriting of punishment, but analysts say they have seen no evidence of a crackdown by Putin.

The White House updated lawmakers Wednesday on the administration's response to the recent rash of high-profile ransomware attacks, a threat it has deemed a national security priority.

This Feb 23, 2019, file photo shows the inside of a computer. The Biden administration will offer rewards up to $10 million for information leading to the identification of foreign state-sanctioned malicious cyber activity against critical U.S. infrastructure, including ransomware attacks. The administration is launching the website stopransomware.gov to offer the public resources for countering the threat. Credit: AP Photo/Jenny Kane, File

In this July 3, 2021 file photo, a sign reads: " Temporarily Closed. We have an IT-disturbance and our systems are not functioning", posted in the window of a closed Coop supermarket store in Stockholm, Sweden. The Biden administration will offer rewards up to $10 million for information leading to the identification of foreign state-sanctioned malicious cyber activity against critical U.S. infrastructure, including ransomware attacks. The administration is launching the website stopransomware.gov to offer the public resources for countering the threat. Credit: Ali Lorestani/TT via AP, File

In this July 3, 2021 photo, a sign that reads: "Coop Forum supermarket in Vastberga is closed due to IT disturbances, no prognosis as to when we will open again", on a closed Coop supermarket store in the suburb of Vastberga, Stockholm, Sweden. The Biden administration will offer rewards up to $10 million for information leading to the identification of foreign state-sanctioned malicious cyber activity against critical U.S. infrastructure, including ransomware attacks. The administration is launching the website stopransomware.gov to offer the public resources for countering the threat. Credit: Jonas Ekstromer/TT via AP, File

Sen. Angus King, an independent from Maine, said he was impressed with the "thoroughness with which they are confronting this issue," particularly with outreach to the private sector.

Explore further Ransomware gang goes offline, prompting questions

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Researchers say a sophisticated spyware campaign was used to target activists, journalists and others.

A spyware campaign using tools from a secretive Israeli firm was used to attack and impersonate dozens of human rights activists, journalists, dissidents, politicians and others, researchers said Thursday.

Statements from Microsoft security researchers and the University of Toronto's Citizen Lab said powerful "cyberweapons" were being used in precision attacks targeting more than 100 victims around the world.

Microsoft said it patched this week the vulnerability exploited by the group, known by the names Candiru and Sourgum.

Citizen Lab said in a blog post that "Candiru is a secretive Israel-based company that sells spyware exclusively to governments," which can then use it to "infect and monitor iPhones, Androids, Macs, PCs, and cloud accounts."

"We found many domains masquerading as advocacy organizations such as Amnesty International, the Black Lives Matter movement, as well as media companies, and other civil-society themed entities," Citizen Lab said.

Microsoft observed at least 100 victims in the Palestinian territories, Israel, Iran, Lebanon, Yemen, Spain, Britain, Turkey, Armenia and Singapore.

The US tech firm said it moved to thwart the attacks with Windows software updates that prevent Candiru from delivering its malware.

"Microsoft has created and built protections into our products against this unique malware, which we are calling DevilsTongue," a Microsoft statement said.

"We have shared these protections with the security community so that we can collectively address and mitigate this threat."

According to Microsoft, DevilsTongue was able to infiltrate popular websites such as Facebook, Twitter, Gmail, Yahoo and others to collect information, read the victim's messages and retrieve photos.

"DevilsTongue can also send messages as the victim on some of these websites, appearing to any recipient that the victim had sent these messages," said the statement from Microsoft Threat Intelligence Center.

"The capability to send messages could be weaponized to send malicious links to more victims."

Citizen Lab researchers found evidence the spyware can exfiltrate private data from a number of apps and accounts, including Gmail, Skype, Telegram and Facebook.

It can also capture browsing history and passwords, as well as turn on the target's webcam and microphone, according to the findings.

Citizen Lab said the Israeli firm's current name is Saito Tech Ltd, and that it has some of the same investors and principals as NSO Group, another Israeli firm under scrutiny for surveillance software.

Explore further Microsoft warns of PrintNightmare vulnerability due to flaw in Windows Print Spooler

 2021 AFP
In this Oct. 27, 2005, file photo the logo of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) is displayed during a third quarter press conference in Taipei, Taiwan. TSMC, the biggest contract manufacturer of processor chips for Apple Inc. and other global brands, said Thursday its latest quarterly profit rose 11.2% over a year earlier to $4.8 billion as demand for smartphones and consumer electronics increased. Credit: AP Photo/Chiang Ying-ying, File

TSMC, the biggest contract manufacturer of processor chips for Apple Inc. and other global brands, said Thursday its latest quarterly profit rose 11.2% over a year earlier to $4.8 billion as demand for smartphones and consumer electronics increased.

Sales in the three months ending June 30 rose 19.8% to $13.3 billion, said the company, headquartered in Hsinchu, Taiwan.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Inc. has said it expects faster growth as next-generation telecoms and computing generates demand for chips. A shift to working remotely in response to the coronavirus pandemic helped propel demand for communications technology.

The company, whose customers also include Qualcomm Inc., said in April it plans to invest $100 billion over the next three years to expand manufacturing and research and development.

Most semiconductors used in smartphones, medical equipment, computers and other products are made in Taiwan, South Korea and China. Shortages have cropped up as supply failed to keep up with demand.

TSMC operates a semiconductor wafer fabrication facility in Camas, Washington, and design centers in San Jose, California, and Austin, Texas.

It has announced plans to invest $3.5 billion in a second U.S. manufacturing site, in North Phoenix, Arizona, as concern grows over heavy American reliance on Asian sources for high-tech components.

Explore further Chipmaker TSMC says profit up 16.7% as demand revives

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Students in Glynn County Schools special education program will continue to benefit this year from a partnership the district has with College of Coastal Georgia that brings the students to the college campus to learn real-world skills theyll take beyond graduation.
Many device manufacturers have increasingly designed products to make them difficult to repair without specialized equipment and instructions, but that may change soon.
A sweeping and "highly active campaign" that originally set its sights on Myanmar has broadened its focus to strike a number of targets located in the Philippines, according to new research.

Russian cybersecurity firm Kaspersky, which first spotted the infections in October 2020, attributed them to a threat actor it tracks as "LuminousMoth," which it connected with medium to high confidence to a Chinese state-sponsored hacking group called HoneyMyte or Mustang Panda, given its observed victimology, tactics, and procedures.

About 100 affected victims have been identified in Myanmar, while the number of victims jumped to nearly 1,400 in the Philippines, although the researchers noted that the actual targets were only a fraction of the initial numbers, including government entities located both within the two countries and abroad.

The goal of the attacks is to affect a wide perimeter of targets with the aim of hitting a select few that are of strategic interest, researchers Mark Lechtik, Paul Rascagneres, and Aseel Kayal said. Put differently, the intrusions are simultaneously wide-ranging and narrow-focused, enabling the threat acor to siphon intelligence from high-profile targets.

The infection vector used in the campaign involves sending a spear-phishing email to the victim containing a Dropbox download link that, when clicked, leads to a RAR archive that's designed to mimic a Word document. The archive file, for its part, comes with two malicious DLL libraries ("version.dll" and "wwlib.dll") and two corresponding executable files that run the malware.

Upon successfully gaining a foothold, an alternative infection chain observed by Kaspersky leverages removable USB drives to propagate the malware to other hosts with the help of "version.dll". On the other hand, the purpose of "wwlib.dll" is to download a Cobalt Strike beacon on the compromised Windows system from a remote attacker-controlled domain.

In some instances, the attacks incorporated an extra step wherein the threat actor deployed a post-exploitation tool in the form of a signed-but-rogue version of Zoom video conferencing app, using it to hoover sensitive files to a command-and-control server. A valid digital certificate was used to sign the software in an effort to pass off the tool as benign. Also spotted on some infected machines was a second post-exploitation utility that steals cookies from Google Chrome browser.

LuminousMoth's malicious cyber operations and its possible ties to Mustang Panda APT may also be an attempt to shift tactics and update their defensive measures by re-tooling and developing new and unknown malware implants, Kaspersky noted, thus potentially obscuring any ties to their past activities and blurring their attribution to known groups.

"APT actors are known for the frequently targeted nature of their attacks. Typically, they will handpick a set of targets that in turn are handled with almost surgical precision, with infection vectors, malicious implants and payloads being tailored to the victims' identities or environment," Kaspersky researchers said.

"It's not often we observe a large-scale attack conducted by actors fitting this profile, usually due to such attacks being noisy, and thus putting the underlying operation at risk of being compromised by security products or researchers."
Threat intelligence researchers from Google on Wednesday shed more light on four in-the-wild zero-days in Chrome, Safari, and Internet Explorer browsers that were exploited by malicious actors in different campaigns since the start of the year.

What's more, three of the four zero-days were engineered by commercial providers and sold to and used by government-backed actors, contributing to an uptick in real-world attacks. The list of now-patched vulnerabilities is as follows -

CVE-2021-1879 : Use-After-Free in QuickTimePluginReplacement (Apple WebKit)

: Use-After-Free in QuickTimePluginReplacement (Apple WebKit) CVE-2021-21166 : Chrome Object Lifecycle Issue in Audio

: Chrome Object Lifecycle Issue in Audio CVE-2021-30551 : Chrome Type Confusion in V8

: Chrome Type Confusion in V8 CVE-2021-33742: Internet Explorer out-of-bounds write in MSHTML

Both Chrome zero-days  CVE-2021-21166 and CVE-2021-30551  are believed to have been used by the same actor, and were delivered as one-time links sent via email to targets located in Armenia, with the links redirecting unsuspecting users to attacker-controlled domains that masqueraded as legitimate websites of interest to the recipients.

The malicious websites took charge of fingerprinting the devices, including collecting system information about the clients, before delivering a second-stage payload.

When Google rolled out a patch for CVE-2021-30551, Shane Huntley, Director of Google's Threat Analysis Group (TAG), revealed that the vulnerability was leveraged by the same actor that abused CVE-2021-33742, an actively exploited remote code execution flaw in Windows MSHTML platform that was addressed by Microsoft as part of its Patch Tuesday update on June 8.

The two zero-days were provided by a commercial exploit broker to a nation-state adversary, which used them in limited attacks against targets in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, Huntley previously added.

Now according to a technical report published by the team, all the three zero-days were "developed by the same commercial surveillance company that sold these capabilities to two different government-backed actors," adding the Internet Explorer flaw was used in a campaign targeting Armenian users with malicious Office documents that loaded web content within the web browser.

Google did not disclose the identities of the exploit broker or the two threat actors that used the vulnerabilities as part of their attacks.

SolarWinds Hackers Exploited iOS Zero-Day

The Safari zero-day, in contrast, concerned a WebKit flaw that could enable adversaries to process maliciously crafted web content that may result in universal cross-site scripting attacks. The issue was rectified by Apple on March 26, 2021.

Attacks leveraging CVE-2021-1879, which Google attributed to a "likely Russian government-backed actor," were executed by means of sending malicious links to government officials over LinkedIn that, when clicked from an iOS device, redirected the user to a rogue domain that served the next-stage payloads.

It's worth noting that the offensive also mirrors a wave of targeted attacks unleashed by Russian hackers tracked as Nobelium, which was found abusing the vulnerability to strike government agencies, think tanks, consultants, and non-governmental organizations as part of an email phishing campaign.

Nobelium, a threat actor linked to the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR), is also suspected of orchestrating the SolarWinds supply chain attack late last year. It's known by other aliases such as APT29, UNC2452 (FireEye), SolarStorm (Unit 42), StellarParticle (Crowdstrike), Dark Halo (Volexity), and Iron Ritual (Secureworks).

"Halfway into 2021, there have been 33 zero-day exploits used in attacks that have been publicly disclosed this year  11 more than the total number from 2020," TAG researchers Maddie Stone and Clement Lecigne noted. "While there is an increase in the number of zero-day exploits being used, we believe greater detection and disclosure efforts are also contributing to the upward trend."
Rep. Adrian Smith, R-Neb., and Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., have introduced legislation in their respective legislative chambers that will allow year-round E15 sales.

The actions of the two Nebraska lawmakers come as the result of a D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals decision earlier this month to reverse a 2019 rule by the Environmental Protection Agency that lifted outdated restrictions on E15 (a 15% ethanol blend).

EPAs rule, which went into effect in June 2019, ultimately allowed for E15 sales year-round.

Smith, co-chair of the U.S. House Biofuels Caucus, introduced the legislation along with other members of the caucus.

The legislation would ensure the EPA can grant waivers to allow E15 and higher blend fuels to be sold at retailers year-round. He said it would provide key stability and predictability for family farmers and biofuels producers across the country.

Smith long has been a supporter of the uninterrupted sale of E15. He said year-round sales of E15 provide consumers consistency in their fuel tank and farmers consistency in their production.
I think Grand Island needs a state veterans cemetery, Shuda said.

Construction could start in 2022, with the cemetery itself ready to start accepting burials possibly by 2023, he said.

Once the project is approved, the 10% match is reimbursed to the state of Nebraska and can be used for elective elements in the project, such as a carillon tower, entrance or waterfall.

In addition to honoring veterans, the project would benefit Grand Island redevelopment efforts, Hero Flight Association member Jay Vavricek said Wednesday.

This fits well within the master plan that was developed in the city, Vavricek said. It dovetails and tells me the west side of Capital Avenue could also need a spark. This would give confidence for other redevelopment to also occur nearby.

CRA approved the payment as part of its bills for a check to be provided to Hero Flight the next day, Regional Planning Director Chad Nabity explained.

Donations for the project still may be sent to the Hall County Hero Flight Association, 131 S. Locust St., Grand Island, NE 68801, or dropped off at any Five Points Bank location or at Hall County Courthouse, 111 W. First St., Grand Island.

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PLIP payments compensate participants for 80% of both the loss of the eligible livestock or poultry and the cost of depopulation and disposal based on a single payment rate per head. PLIP payments will be calculated by multiplying the number of head of eligible livestock or poultry by the payment rate per head, and then subtracting the amount of any payments the eligible livestock or poultry owner has received for disposal of the livestock or poultry under the Natural Resources Conservation Service Environmental Quality Incentives Program or a state program. The payments will also be reduced by any Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP 1 and 2) payments paid on the same inventory of swine that were depopulated.

There is no per person or legal entity payment limitation on PLIP payments. To be eligible for payments, a person or legal entity must have an average adjusted gross income of less than $900,000 for tax years 2016, 2017 and 2018.

Applying for assistance

Eligible livestock and poultry producers can apply for PLIP starting July 20 by completing the FSA-620, Pandemic Livestock Indemnity Program application, and submitting it to any FSA county office. Additional documentation may be required. Visit farmers.gov/plip for a copy of the Notice of Funding Availability and more information on how to apply.
If the coronavirus has taught anything, its technology savviness. As the pandemic winds down, the National Junior Angus Association has aimed to continue fostering tech skills for its youth cattlemen and cattlewomen.

Holly Martin, communications director for NJAA, said a world turned upside-down never stopped NJAA from offering its activities. This year events such as the National Junior Angus Show, which is underway at Grand Islands Fonner Park, are looking a little more like traditional shows.

Last year was an uncommon year, Martin said. We, ag people, are very excited to be back to normal.

There are 801 junior members who have descended upon Fonner Park from 37 states. During the course of the week, the members have had opportunities to compete in more than 20 contests, events, educational clinics and other activities.

Like many events, the national shows normal will look a little different this go-round, Martin said, but some coronavirus-inspired ideas will still be utilized.

Some of those things stuck, and we decided were actually a better solution than before, she said.

As solutions that bring people together, remote activities still are being utilized, Martin said.
Gaming group to host Scrabble night

Scrabble Game Night is set for 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Monday at Primrose Assisted Living, Capital Avenue and North Road.

The group usually meets the third Monday of each month in the Pub on the second floor at Primrose. All Scrabble players are welcome; bring a board if you have one. There is no registration required and there is no fee to play. Masks are required while in the building.

For more information, call La Vonne at 308-382-2663.

This weekend at the Grand ...

A Quiet Place Part II is showing this weekend at the Grand Theatre. 316 W. Third St. Showtimes are 7:15 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

With the newly acquired knowledge of the seemingly invulnerable creatures weakness, grief-stricken Evelyn Abbott finds herself on her own, with two young teens, a defenseless newborn son, and with no place to hide. Now, 474 days after the all-out alien attack in A Quiet Place (2018), the Abbotts summon up every last ounce of courage to leave their now-burned-to-the-ground farm and embark on a peril-laden quest to find civilization.
WASHINGTON (AP)  U.S. factory output slid last month as a shortage of computer chips disrupted auto production.

Manufacturing production dipped 0.1% in June  third drop in five months, the Federal Reserve reported Thursday.

Overall, industrial production  including output at factories, mines and utilities  rose 0.4% last month after increasing 0.7% in May. Industrial output is up 9.8% from a year earlier.

The chip shortage pushed production of cars, trucks and auto parts down 6.6% in June. Excluding autos, industrial production rose 0.4% last month.

The manufacturing sector continues to be hobbled by supply constraints,'' said Stephen Stanley, chief economist at Amherst Pierpont Securities. The highest profile example is the struggle by automakers to manage through a chip shortage.''

Utility output climbed 2.7% in June as Americans cranked up the air conditioning to battle a heat wave across much of the country. Mining output rose 1.4% on an uptick in oil and gas production.
A July 9 column by Ron Roeber in the Independent claims that the New Innovation Initiative for USDA and the 30x30 plan are very similar. It claims that the initiative would cut the environmental footprint of U.S. agriculture in half by the year 2050. Other than that, few details are given about the initiative aside from the radical goal of conserving sensitive and marginal lands to enhance carbon sinks. Given only these details, you would be right to question why Gov. Pete Ricketts did not have the same reaction to this plan as the 30x30 plan.

I would now like you to see what the New Innovation Initiative is, straight from the USDA. Its statement at the time: U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced the Agriculture Innovation Agenda, a department-wide initiative to align resources, programs, and research to position American agriculture to better meet future global demands. Specifically, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will stimulate innovation so that American agriculture can achieve the goal of increasing production by 40 percent while cutting the environmental footprint of U.S. agriculture in half by 2050.
Paris, TX (75460)

Today

Scattered showers and thunderstorms, especially early in the day. High 89F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Clear to partly cloudy. Low near 70F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
SPRINGFIELD  Four men have pleaded guilty to poaching in Williamson County, according to a news release from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

IDNR conservation police and the Williamson County States Attorney teamed up to curb poaching in southern Illinois last month by collecting $5,000 in fines after four defendants pled guilty to unlawful use of a rifle.

Our officers monitor Illinois public lands and check in on hunters who hunt on private lands during the states various hunting seasons, Captain Eric Manker, IDNR Office of Law Enforcement, said. During the second firearm deer season, CPOs Johnson and Spinka located four subjects from Indiana who were deer hunting with rifles. The subjects didnt have the required permits or hunting licenses, and had in their possession two untagged, harvested deer.

Defendants Jon Reynolds, Tim Allen, James Hall, and Cade Cruse were cited for hunting with a rifle, no permits and no hunting license, IDNR said.

Reynolds and Allen also were cited for unlawful take of a three-point buck, unlawful take of a doe, fraudulently obtaining permits, and unlawful possession of deer, IDNR said.

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MURPHYSBORO  The Jackson County Health Department is warning the public of the recent sharp increase in the number of reported COVID-19 cases.

For the first 15 days of July, 106 new cases were detected in the county, compared to 42 cases for the whole month of June. This averages out to 7.1 new cases per day for July so far, versus 1.4 new cases per day for June.

That's according to a news release sent out by the department's administrator, Bart Hagston, on Thursday.

This same trend is seen across Southern Illinois, as a whole, with the number of new cases more than doubling the last two weeks, according to the department.

In late June, Jackson County was down to only four active cases of COVID-19, but was up to 97 active cases as of July 15.

"All of this data translates to increased local risk of contracting COVID-19," the department said.

The sharp increase is due to a number of factors including:

 Relatively low vaccination rates for Jackson County (38%) and the region.
Kentucky officials said Thursday that Sunrise agreed to refer any service applicants who identify as LGBTQ to another provider in good standing with the state's health and family services cabinet.

Sheller previously said that Sunrise already offers to help steer same-sex couples to other child services agencies that are a better fit. Sheller has said that Sunrise willingly and gladly accepts LGBTQ youths and does not put children in conversion therapy, which tries to change a persons sexual orientation or gender identity.

Like many other states, Kentucky contracts with private agencies like Sunrise for some of its child welfare services. Beshears administration had set a June 30 deadline for Sunrise to sign a new contract, threatening to stop placing children with the agency if it refused. But the governor said recently that children were still being placed with Sunrise.

Sunrise traces its roots to caring for Civil War orphans. It has contracted with the state of Kentucky for more than 50 years.
MONTICELLO  Kids are swimming, kayaking, doing archery, learning about science and all the fun things they always do at 4-H Memorial Camp in Monticello.

One big thing is different this year.

As part of the pandemic protocol, which was tighter in Illinois this winter when Andy Davis, University of Illinois Extension camp director was planning this years event, the camp is not just for kids.

Instead of bunking in the cabin with other kids, mom, dad and siblings hunker down together at night and enjoy activities together during the day.

Each family gets their own cabin during the three-day, two-night summer camp located at a lake and surrounded by trees.

All of the things that make camp great like outdoor adventures, hiking, boating, and swimming are just as fun socially distanced once we flipped to a family camp model, Davis said.

The camp organizers have held family camps before, so they knew how to run it.
That prompted an uproar from Yarbrough and Pappas. Those two offices are tasked with the next steps of handing out property taxes: After Kaegis office makes the assessments, including the exemptions, Yarbroughs clerks office calculates the final rates based on how much revenue is needed for the government, while the treasurers office run by Pappas collects those levies.

Pappas in a July 8 letter, however, demanded Kaegi certify in writing that his calculations are correct. Yarbrough followed suit the next day.

Given the major errors with the Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption program revealed recently in the Chicago Sun-Times, we cannot in good conscience perform the aforementioned calculations pursuant to our fiduciary duty to the citizens of Cook County, Yarbrough wrote in a Friday letter to Kaegi.

She went on to say the programs demographics are a group that should be protected, not subjected to the exploitation that precipitates from an inefficacious government program.

Pappas said in her statement Wednesday: I still believe that the assessor has an ethical responsibility to correct any data errors relating to senior freeze exemptions. I have made my position clear.
Per the initial law, 75 dispensary licenses were to have been distributed over one year ago, but of the 900-plus applicants for those licenses, only 21 achieved the perfect score necessary to be entered into the final lottery. That caused the governors office to pause the final lottery amid backlash from equity advocates.

That lottery will now be held Aug. 19 with all 21 finalists eligible to win licenses.

While the initial lottery allowed only applicants that were tied for the highest score to reach the lottery, the new lotteries will instead apply to those who received 85 percent or more on their 250-point application.

The first new lottery for 55 licenses includes any firm that scored at least an 85 percent on its initial application that has not hit a 10-license limit. That lottery will be held July 29.
The following is based on a collection of news articles that appeared in the Daily Independent in 1943:

On Feb. 6, 1943, the article said that Ardell Charles Brown, 60, was beaten to death in a Grand Tower street about 6 p.m. by Delbert L. Newton, 28, of Grand Tower, according to Sheriff Tanner Hanson.

Hanson continued by saying a boy named Joseph Worthen came along to where Newton stood over the dead or dying Brown, a former Grand Tower police officer, and that Worthen and Newton put his body in a car. Worthen said Newton refused to go with them to the doctors officer. The boy said he did not know whether Brown was dead at that time or not. He was pronounced dead at a doctors office a few minutes later.

Sheriff Hanson, saying Newton was jailed here Saturday night sometime after the killing, had this to say for himself: He (Brown) called me into the street and ask me if I was still mad at him. He reached into his pocket for something and I hit him with my fist and he fell. Officers are investigating a report that the aging ex-law officer was clubbed to death.

Sheriff Hanson said he was told that Brown, some years ago had arrested young Newton on two or more occasions for drunkenness, disorderliness, and fighting. Reports of threats by Newton to get him, were being investigated.
The development of the COVID-19 vaccine in such a short time is in and of itself a remarkable achievement, but the distribution of the vaccine has proven to be a difficult challenge. Utilizing pharmacists to vaccinate has helped to get the vaccine out quickly and efficiently and as importantly  safely.

About nine out of every 10 people live within five miles of community pharmacist, which makes pharmacies a great location to get a vaccine. The convenience factor is especially important to minorities. The vaccine hesitancy among minority communities is well-documented. According to a recent Washington Post-ABC News poll, just 63% of black adults say they would likely get the COVID-19 vaccine while 70 percent of whites and 78 percent of Hispanics said they were likely to get the vaccine. The last thing we need to do is to make it harder for minorities to get vaccinated.

Science and technology have helped us navigate the COVID-19 crisis and it will be science and technology that will help us get through the next healthcare crisis and there will most certainly be another healthcare crisis in the not-too-distant future.

We would be well-served to look at the successful policies that have been so valuable during the COVID-19 pandemic and build on those successes. Tele-medicine works and allowing pharmacists to vaccinate has also worked.
Government-and-politics

editor's pick alert featured

Clyburn: Federal plan to mean real rescue

BRADLEY HARRIS, T&D Congressman Jim Clyburn's Help is Here Town Hall drew a large crowd to the Santee Conference Center. BRADLEY HARRIS, T&D U.S. House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn speaks with citizens Tuesday about key details of the American Rescue Plan.

SANTEE  Congressman James Clyburn held a public meeting Tuesday evening in the town he calls home in South Carolina.

The U.S. Majority Whip held the Help is Here Town Hall at the Santee Conference Center.

The town hall served as a one-stop shop for citizens in Orangeburg and surrounding areas to learn about a new tax credit and Medicaid expansion, discuss various issues and get vaccinated.

Clyburn spoke to a large crowd about the American Rescue Plan, specifically detailing the Child Tax Credit, Medicaid expansion and health care. Clyburn also spoke on the pandemic and vaccination rates.

The congressman said the CTC will reduce poverty numbers across America.

Clyburn says focus should be on supporting S.C. State University U.S. House Majority Whip James Clyburn says he will continue supporting his alma mater South Carolina State in the aftermath of the universitys board ousting President James Clark on Tuesday morning.

Heres what the experts have said. The Child Tax Credit goes to every family if youve got children under 6, you get $3,600 per child. If they are over 6 up to 17, you will get $3,000 per child, Clyburn said.

The experts say that of all the children in the United States of America currently living in poverty, as a result of this bill, half of them will be immediately lifted out of poverty, Clyburn said.

The funds will be released by the IRS beginning July 15. Payments will be made monthly.

Representatives of the IRS were present to answer questions regarding the tax credit and other issues.

Acting president says new chapter begins at S.C. State A day after being named acting president of South Carolina State, retired U.S. Army Col. Alexander Conyers issued an open letter saying a new chapter has begun at the university.

The percentage of children in the 6th Congressional District that will receive the CTC  92.1% in this district. Thats 136,000 children, Clyburn said.

So many people went into poverty because of COVID-19, so this is the American Rescue Act, Clyburn said.

Provisions in the American Rescue Plan will also give citizens relief from the high costs associated with health care.

It lowers health care insurance costs for 9 million Americans who are buying their health care insurance through Healthcare.gov. It saves an average of $50 per person, per month. It benefits over 230,000 South Carolinians. It reduces deductibles for new coverage by 90%, Clyburn said.

Clyburn is also working to expand Medicaid in South Carolina, which is one of 12 states to refuse expansion of the program that provides health care coverage to low-income people.

Attorney: S.C. State president exploring legal options following ouster An attorney representing the ousted president of South Carolina State University said James Clark will explore his legal options following what the lawyer called an unfair termination.

Clyburn said the expansion would greatly impact the affordability of nursing home care.

If we were to expand Medicaid in South Carolina -- $600 million in federal funds over the next two years. Thats a lot of money thatll pay for a lot of infrastructure. We will have fewer uninsured residents, and we will reduce the racial health disparities that exist in South Carolina if we expand Medicaid, Clyburn said.

The expansion impacts low- and middle-income citizens, Clyburn said.

Clyburn also encouraged citizens to continue getting vaccinated. Attendees and others had the opportunity to get vaccinated at the event.

Two mobile vaccination stations were located outside the center. The vaccines were facilitated by Family Health Centers Inc.

I thought it was important to add the vaccinations to this. Originally we were not. We were going to just focus on the American Rescue Act, but in recent days, we see numbers going up and vaccinations going down. And its pretty clear according to the reports that Ive seen, 99.5% of all the people that are contracting the virus now seem to be people who have not been vaccinated, Clyburn said.

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The administration ... by July 4th wanted 70% of the people in the country to be vaccinated, and we didnt get there. We got to 67%. South Carolina is right around 41%, and of course, Im pretty concerned about that, Clyburn said.

Clyburn is the chair of the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis.

It is my job to make sure the monies spent on the coronavirus are efficiently spent, effectively spent and equitably spent, Clyburn said.
The anti-Asian bias of the pandemic is on display, with a timeline including top government officials using anti-Asian slurs as names for the coronavirus and blaming China for its existence.

There's also a listing of various attacks that had Asian victims, like the shootings at spa businesses in Georgia in March, where six women of Asian descent were among the eight people killed.

In the center of the show are items collected by the museum showing how Asian Americans have tried to push back against bias in the past year, like photographer Mike Keo's series of images of Asian Americans sharing their identities with the hashtag, #IAMNOTAVIRUS.

Another piece is a collection of yellow whistles, which visitors are encouraged to take. Dr. Agnes Hsu-Tang and Oscar Tang founded the Yellow Whistle Project this year, offering the items as a security measure in case help is needed and making them yellow in a reference to how the color has been weaponized as a xenophobic slur against Asian Americans.

It was important to include both the history and the pandemic-related material, said Herb Tam, curator and director of exhibits at the museum.
The administration has said it will begin the evacuation of Afghans who helped the U.S. in the war effort by month's end.

Officials have said that one possibility is to relocate them to neighboring countries in Central Asia where they could be protected from possible retaliation by the Taliban or other groups.

The White House and State Department have declined comment on the numbers to be relocated or where they might go.

Connor says he is happy it is being done but says the way it is being handled is a "public relations" move.

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"Our seeming mistake in planning will hurt us later when we need future such help from those in foreign nations," Connor said. "We need to show loyalty to those who showed us loyalty, and many an interpreter was responsible for saving many an Americans life."

"I think the hasty nature of the pullout, and not planning to protect many interpreters/families and extricate much of our weaponry/equipment, sends a bad message," Connor said. "In making the decision to leave, this administration should have done a much better job of planning to protect Afghan allies. Thats something I will think about throughout the rest of my life, as we appear to have left many of those allies behind to a cruel fate."
COLUMBIA  S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster presented the Order of the Palmetto, the states highest award, to Col. William Mellard Bill Connor V, a retired U.S. Army Infantry officer and former senior representative of U.S. Army North to South Carolina, during ceremonies at the S.C. Statehouse on July 8.

Following a lengthy nomination and approval process, which included letters of recommendation from U.S. Congressmen Joe Wilson and Jeff Duncan, Connor received the award based on his distinguished service to both the state and nation.

This is an award that cannot be bought nor applied for, McMaster said. This is reserved for those who statewide, nationally or beyond have distinguished themselves in service to the people of South Carolina. Bill Connor is one of those people.

McMaster added: This speaks to a strong Judeo-Christian tradition and a strong military tradition [here in S.C.]. Combine those two traditions with the people who came here from all over, and over the centuries having faced every obstacle known to man in a place that is paradise, and you end up with some real talent. Thats what we have, and Bill Connors life reflects everything that Ive just said.
The community is invited. You can expect that we have been praying over it. Ive been praying over it for weeks. ... I am praying that right now at a time when our country is in a lot of peril and division that we will focus on what unites us instead of what divides us. I plan to talk about how we deal with the spirit of heaviness, Thompson said.

These campgrounds were developed as the brush harbor services to bring people together to keep God in the center of all. I wish that every year we had one night that was a history night to pass stories down, word-of-mouth stories, even the ghost stories that they tell about the little cemetery there, Thompson said.

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The countrys first Methodist bishop, Francis Asbury, and other preachers traveled through the South on riding circuits in the late 1700s, inviting residents from surrounding areas to hear their sermons. This period was known as the Great Awakening and became the genesis of many current Methodist congregations. Bishop Asbury documented his visit to Cattle Creek in 1788.

His preaching was circa 1745 to 1816. He came through that area and preached there one time, Thompson said.
In his first major executive decision, South Carolina State Acting President Alexander Conyers announced Thursday that the university will clear account balances of more than 2,500 continuing students.

The move will provide much-needed relief to students who were previously unable to return to college due to financial hardship caused primarily by the COVID-19 pandemic.

We are committed to providing these students with a clear path forward so they can continue their college education and graduate without the burden of financial debt caused by circumstances beyond their control, Conyers said. Our university was founded on the tenet of providing students with access to a quality affordable education. Thats exactly what we intend to do. No student should have to sit home because they cant afford to pay their past due debt after having experienced the financial devastation caused by a global pandemic.

The vast majority of the students set to receive notification of aid beginning Thursday are continuing students not yet registered because of past due account balances and students who stopped out of college entirely because they and their families could not afford to pay.

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WASHINGTON (AP)  Facebook is asking that the new head of the Federal Trade Commission step away from decisions on whether to continue the agency's antitrust case against the social network giant, asserting that past public criticism of the companys market power makes it impossible for her to be impartial.

Facebook Inc. petitioned the agency Wednesday to remove Chair Lina Khan from taking part in decisions on the FTC's antitrust lawsuit against the company. A federal judge recently dismissed the suit by the FTC and one from a coalition of states, saying they didn't provide enough evidence to prove that Facebook is a monopoly in the social networking market. The judge, however, allowed the FTC to revise its complaint and try again.

Khan has been a persistent critic of Amazon, Google and Apple, as well as Facebook.

FTC officials declined comment on Facebooks motion, which came two weeks after Amazon requested that Khan be removed from taking part in antitrust investigations of that company. The agency could be expected to respond formally at some point. Khan has said she would seek the opinion of FTC ethics monitors if issues arose of potential conflict of interest.
The states that signed onto the amicus brief are: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah and West Virginia. All but three have Republican governors.

Several other groups have submitted filings in support of South Carolina, including the Southern Baptist Convention and an anti-abortion group of obstetricians and gynecologists.

Attorneys for Planned Parenthood have not responded in court.

Actions by an even higher court could also dictate outcomes in this case. On Tuesday, Lewis ruled she would stay further motions following the U.S. Supreme Courts decision to take a case from Mississippi  which wants to enforce an abortion ban after 15 weeks of pregnancy. The court will likely hear that case in the fall, with a decision likely in 2022.

About a dozen other states have passed similar or more restrictive abortion bans, which could take effect if the U.S. Supreme Court were to overturn Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 court decision supporting abortion rights. Federal law supersedes state law.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)  Santee Cooper is starting the process of looking for a new leader for the state-owned utility.

At Tuesday's board meeting  the first for new board chairman Peter McCoy  the leader of the Human Resource Committee promised the board regular updates. "This is a tremendous undertaking for the board, said David Singleton, the leader of the committee.

Singleton said he will talk to the state commission that approves salaries for agency heads to get a pay range and get together a search committee to hire a consultant to find and weed through possible candidates.

The board is looking to replace Mark Bonsall, who was hired two years ago to overhaul and stabilize Santee Cooper after the state-owned utility lost billions of dollars as a minority partner in the construction of two nuclear power plants that never produced a watt of power.
"A South Carolinian's decision to get vaccinated is a personal one for them to make and not the government's," McMaster wrote. "Enticing, coercing, intimidating, mandating or pressuring anyone to take the vaccine is a bad policy which will deteriorate the public's trust and confidence in the State's vaccination efforts."

Republican state leaders in Arizona and Missouri also have pushed back against the federal strategy as articulated by Biden: "Now, we need to go to community-by-community, neighborhood-by-neighborhood, and oftentimes, door-to-door  literally knocking on doors  to get help to the remaining people protected from the virus."

Biden is warning that people refusing the vaccinations are potentially putting their communities at unnecessary risk, backing up the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Controls findings that the majority of South Carolinians now being hospitalized and dying from COVID-19 aren't fully vaccinated.

The Associated Press reports that an analysis of newly reported data in the first two weeks of June by DHEC found 94% of new cases were in not-fully-vaccinated individuals. Of cases where the agency could determine vaccine status, most of the 92 people hospitalized and all of the 11 who died of COVID-19 during those two weeks weren't completely vaccinated.

So the message may not get to South Carolinians with door-to-door visits, but the people of the state need to know the risks in making their choices about COVID vaccinations. Despite all the debate, it appears the best medical advice available, particularly for those in middle age and older, is to get the shots.

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In Bearcats case, the bankruptcy filing was converted last year from chapter 11 to chapter 7  liquidation  leaving the company with no chance of revival. But another operator is attempting to take over some of the companys wells prior to its dissolution.

If we give ourselves a window of time where the forfeiture of the bonds takes place, that will probably be the best for all parties, including the state, to make sure that we go forward with an abandonment for these wells that clearly need to be forfeited, but also provide an opportunity for that other operator, Christensen said.

The commission will require Bearcat to surrender up to $2,250,430 in bonds by Oct. 15. But thats unlikely to cover the full costs of reclamation, according to Lottie Mitchell, an organizer with the Powder River Basin Resource Council.

Though past reforms have improved the bonding program, its still just not enough to cover the costs of actually plugging and reclaiming all of the wells that a company has, Mitchell told the Star-Tribune.

Dozens of wells owned by four other oil and gas companies  WC Operator, Urroz Oil & Gas, Salt Creek Operating and Lodestone Operating  were declared abandoned by the commission during Tuesdays hearing.
Casper

top story

Electric scooters hit a detour on their road to Casper

John Minchillo, Associated Press Sharable electric scooters by Bird Rides, Inc. wait on downtown sidewalks for pedestrian use, Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2019, in downtown Cincinnati. The scooters could be coming to Casper, but some of the city's rules need to be changed first.

Caspers effort to bring electric scooters to town will be making a detour.

In June, Bird Rides proposed bringing a fleet of at least 50 e-scooters to Casper, but city code as it stands now prohibits scooters from riding downtown  on streets or sidewalks.

And downtown, with its higher concentration of things to do and places to go (and slower driving speeds), seems to be the councils main target area for the scooters. That means the code has to change before Birds flock can land in Casper.

Electric scooters could be coming to Casper. But some laws need to change first. As Casper city code stands now, people arent allowed to ride scooters (or other toy vehicles including skateboards, roller blades and skates) on streets or sidewalks downtown.

City Attorney John Henley brought the first draft of a revised ordinance to the council during a work session on Tuesday evening. But after over an hour of discussion and myriad suggested changes from council members, its pretty much back to the drawing board.

The original draft would have banned the e-scooters from downtown altogether  which the city defined as the area from David and Beech Streets between A Street and Midwest Avenue.

Council members said they already see people using e-scooters, either their own or rented ones from a local shop, on sidewalks and streets downtown. While its technically not allowed under city code, those rules dont seem to be enforced.

And while dockless e-scooters like the ones Bird would bring have a geofencing feature which can stop riders from going into certain areas, privately owned scooters or rentals from local shops like Gordons Rents dont have those restrictions built in.

That just takes the allure of the whole thing away, by taking that area away, council member Bruce Knell said. Our downtown is only 20 miles per hour anyway Id sure be interested in seeing us take the boundary off.

All of the council members present Tuesday indicated they wanted a revised ordinance to allow the scooters downtown. Most also said theyd be in favor of changing more of the existing code, which now says people cant ride bikes, skateboards, skates, scooters or other toy vehicles downtown, to allow those to be ridden in the streets in that area.

I dont think this is going to open up the floodgates, Vice Mayor Ray Pacheco said, of skateboards and scooters and bicyclists and roller skaters I think were overthinking some of this stuff. If we eliminate this, I dont think its going to be that crazy.

Pollock said most people, including herself, dont even know those things are banned downtown right now. Removing that boundary may even encourage people to use alternative transportation to get around or go to work, she said.

And even though bikes are not allowed downtown, council member Shawn Johnson said, some of the streets in that area have marked bicycle lanes.

Even after the council settles on a draft, the ordinance still needs to pass three readings. That can be done in three weeks if a special meeting is called. During that process, residents can also give input which may further change the new ordinance.

The aim is to get the scooters out and operational in time for at least part of the summer. Caspers viable scooting season is relatively short thanks to snow and cold temperatures, so if the city wants to try bringing Bird in, it doesnt have long.

The proposed ordinance, as presented on Tuesday, would add definitions for the scooters and lumps them in with many existing provisions for bicycles. Those prohibit riding on sidewalks except on roads with speed limits of 30 mph or more, require riders to give right-of-way to pedestrians and prevent riders from doubling up on bikes or scooters designed for one person.

Just like bikers, scooter riders would also be subject to traffic rules while riding in the streets.

Speeds would be capped at 15 miles per hour, and riders would be required to keep both hands on the handlebars. The ordinance also proposes limiting ridership to those over 16 years old.

But during Tuesdays meeting, several council members proposed removing the age limit altogether, and instead letting Bird or other e-scooter companies make those restrictions.

Were treating them sort of like bikes, Pollock said. You dont have to be a certain age to ride a bike. People who buy these privately and own them, what if theyre not 16?

On roads with speed limits of 30 miles per hour or more, the ordinance would allow people to ride the e-scooters on sidewalks as long as they go 8 mph or slower.

As written, the code would allow riders to park the scooters only on sidewalks or at designated docking stations, and always in an upright position. The provision prohibits people from leaving them in the street, alleyways, near bus stops, loading zones or handicapped parking areas.

The first draft also says they cannot be parked where they would interfere with pedestrians, reduce the walkable sidewalk to less than 5 feet wide or violate standards of access established by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

That was one of the main concerns the city attorney brought up in June when Bird first made its proposal. Some areas, especially downtown where the scooters will likely be most popular, have narrow sidewalks or roadways obscured by parking that may make it difficult to navigate safely, Henley said.

Henley also said while it would be nice to have the scooters available to ride along the North Platte, Bird and other companies have had persistent problems with people leaving the scooters in rivers, lakes or launching them off bridges.

The ordinance as proposed also adds a section regarding the business side of the e-scooters  requiring the company to secure hundreds of thousands of dollars in insurance, register with the city clerk and compensate the city for any losses.

If passed, it would also require Bird (or any other scooter company considering coming to Casper in the future) to notify and cooperate with Casper police of any missing or stolen scooters.

Law enforcement, under the current draft of the ordinance, would have the authority to seize or move any scooters that violate the citys rules.

Bird has already brought the scooters to Evanston and Rock Springs, territory manager Michael Covato said. On Monday, Cheyenne passed three ordinances which will allow Bird to bring e-scooters into town in time for Frontier Days at the end of the month.

Caspers proposed contract would levy a $3,000 base fee for any company wanting to bring e-scooters to the city, plus an additional $25 per scooter. In Cheyenne, the base was set at $200 and $5 per scooter.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP)  An 18-year-old is about to become the youngest person in space, rocketing away with an aviation pioneer who will become the oldest at age 82.

Blue Origin announced Thursday that instead of a $28 million auction winner launching with founder Jeff Bezos on Tuesday, the Dutch son of another bidder will be on board. The company said Oliver Daemen will be the first paying customer, but did not disclose the price of his ticket. But a family spokesperson said it will be considerably less than the winning bid.

Daemen snagged the fourth and last seat on the space capsule after the auction winner stepped aside because of a scheduling conflict. The offer came in a surprise phone call from Blue Origin last week, he said.

This is so unbelievably cool!" Daemen said in a statement. The flight to and into space only takes 10 minutes, but I already know that these will be the most special 10 minutes of my life.

He added in a video posted by Dutch broadcaster RTL: I am super excited to experience zero-g and see the world from above.
Typically, only governors can call special sessions. But the House never fully adjourned this year under a plan to allow Bedke to simply call lawmakers back to the Statehouse without needing Littles OK.

There is some disagreement among legal experts over whether the Legislature is still in session because the Senate officially adjourned, while the House only recessed. But lawmakers are proceeding on the belief that the Legislature is only recessed.

McGeachin was backed at the news conference by about 20 people, some identified as health care workers. Several of them spoke in favor of lawmakers or Little intervening in the matter.

About 75 supporters also filled the room, sometimes jeering reporters as they asked questions, even interrupting McGeachin when she tried to respond.

They cheered when McGeachin said she would be acting governor later Thursday, meaning she could issue an executive order potentially stopping mandatory vaccines by employers.

But Little's spokeswoman, Marissa Morrison, said he was only out of the state for about 15 minutes in the morning after landing in eastern Washington on his way to northern Idaho. She said he planned to fly out of Coeur d'Alene when he returned to Boise and would not be out of the state again on the trip.
Magician Mikayla Oz was set to perform her first show in Wyoming on Wednesday. She booked six shows for kids and teens at the Campbell County Public Library in Gillette about a year ago, she said, and was excited to bring her family friendly show about the magic of reading to the state.

Then, last week, the library began receiving calls and emails and noticing social media posts protesting Ozs shows after community members found out she is transgender.

Library leaders didnt know Oz is transgender when they booked her  and, Youth Services Director Darcy Acord said, it wouldnt have mattered.

On Saturday, the Iowa-based magician told the library she still wanted to go through with the show. But by Tuesday, after both Oz and the library received multiple threats from community members, Oz decided it wouldnt be safe for her or the kids to go through with the performance.

They said, You better not f-ing come to our town, Oz said of a phone call she received Monday night, if you do, theres going to be issues.

She also got an email with a similar message: You aint f-ing welcome in Gillette.
We are at perhaps one of the most critical times of this pandemic. We are definitely seeing a resurgence in Cheyenne, Steenbergen said. Some of our health facilities are being stretched harder than wed like for them to be, we have a lot of people missing work because of sickness, our numbers are definitely going up. So, it is a very important time to focus on this vaccination idea and make sure that your business is safe. Several businesses have reached out already to the Chamber to let them know they also believe its important and that they are working to get their employees vaccinated, Steenbergen said.
University of Wyoming trustees Wednesday approved a notice of intent for the creation of a school of computing at the institution  an effort that will likely take at least five years to fully launch but that leaders hope will catalyze greater economic return.

The plan aligns with first-year president Ed Seidels overarching mission for the university, which leans on digital innovation as a main tenet of the institutions future. He explained to trustees that Wyomings sole public 4-year university needs better ways to compete for new students and faculty, as well as for public and private dollars.

He added that as technological tools become more ubiquitous in the workforce, the digital divide between those with the skills and those without will only continue to grow.

The changes we have to make to address these issues are rather urgent, he told trustees. We need to be preparing now for the jobs that will be available in 2030.

The school of computing would play a key role in that mission, Seidel explained.
The founders never contemplated the desire of anyone to serve lengthy terms in office, far from family and professional concerns. They believed that short terms would produce rotation in office, which would, they further believed, protect against corruption and the arrogance of power that often are byproducts of numerous terms in governmental positions. Modern-day opponents of congressional term limits offer several arguments against inorganic ceilings. There is a genuine concern that term limits will, for example, decrease the capacity and expertise of Congress, undercutting its ability to pass wise, effective legislation and policies. Experience matters, it is said, as it does everywhere else. The numerous and varied problems that Congress confronts requires skills often acquired through years of serving in Congress. Opponents of term limits are quick to note that freshmen members will be likely to defer to experienced lawmakers, those skilled in the art of making laws, which will have the net effect of extending or consolidating the power of those boasting years of experience.
The Gillette News Record wrote:

Every time the Gillette City Council discusses spending money to improve the Energy Capital Sports Complex or any number of other projects, it gets an earful from angry residents about wasteful and wanton spending.

Yet, when were gluttonous with our water consumption, where are those same people demanding we all be more responsible?
NO definitive decision has as yet been taken to mothball Atlantic Train I, industry insiders have said.

According to these insiders, reports of the plant being mothballed should be seen as part of the ongoing fight between BP and Royal Dutch Shell, two of the worlds largest energy companies, for control of the still lucrative liquefied natural gas (LNG) complex at Point Fortin.
In April of this year, a 17-year-old girl named Aicha got into a boat with 58 men, women and children in the west African country of Mauritania, and set off for Europe.

Within two days, their food and water were done.

On the fourth day, the fuel for the engines had run out.

The boat began drifting in the unforgiving Atlantic Ocean, with no land or ship in sight.

People began screaming out for water. A human can only survive without it for three days.
The international community, as represented by the Core Group, must be stopped from repeating its misguided policies that have helped to push Haiti into a state of sustained crisis.

On Saturday, the Core Group, which is an informal bloc of diplomats in Haiti who represent the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Brazil, Spain, the European Union, the United Nations and the Organisation of American States, issued a statement acknowledging Dr Ariel Henry as designated prime minister.
Many lives and our economic survival depend on the availability of vaccines in sufficient numbers to vaccinate 70 per cent or greater of the adult population.

We are reopening for business before the 70 per cent target is achieved and before more is known about the Delta variant, described as relentless. That is a significant risk, but I do acknowledge movement in a safer direction with the reported arrival last week of enough doses of Sinopharm vaccine for 400,000 people and the Prime Minister being pictured taking it.
Canvassing can help validate that information, he said.

Ballot-counting bubble issues

Another big issue is whether the ballots were properly counted.

County officials have insisted that there could be no bleed-through of marks made by voters on one side of the ballot to another. Even if that did occur, they said the ballots were printed in a way that those stray marks could not affect races on the other side of the sheet because of how the bubbles for voters to fill were aligned.

But Logan showed the senators evidence he said shows misalignment of those bubbles as well as actual ballots where stray marks could result either in a vote for someone for whom the person did not intend or could invalidate the choice for that race because it appeared more than one vote had been cast.

He said the problem appears to be confined only to votes cast on Election Day, as the preprinted early ballots were properly aligned. But that still amounts to about 168,000 ballots that were printed and cast at voting centers.

Separately, Logan wants access to images of the signatures on the early-ballot envelopes.
The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer:

It is absolutely true, as Kalman P. Hettleman, an education policy analyst stated in his July 12 opinion column headlined States must address school inequities that President Joe Biden must not flinch in the struggle for school equity.

However, what is even more true is that individuals desiring to truly make a difference in our country today must not flinch from becoming teachers. The path to social justice, racial equality, economic stability and the acceptance that all lives matter starts at the schoolhouse door. That is how it has been for more than two centuries and that is how it will be for future generations to come.

Hettlemans column focuses on the need to have all schools receive adequate dollars, and more particularly, schools in poor communities receive additional allocations to remedy inequalities in existing school funding systems. While this is a noble and worthy stance, and most certainly, the schools in the least economically stable communities need extra to counter the impact of poverty, the remedy goes beyond increasing funding.

What all schools, be they public, private or charter in rich or poor communities need is more highly competent, well-trained teachers in every classroom.
Sierra Vista police arrested two California men on suspicion of drug and weapon charges on Wednesday following the investigation of the shooting deaths of a man and a woman outside a restaurant, officials said.

According to a news release from the Sierra Vista Police Department, a fight that led to the shootings Tuesday night appears to be tied to a debt owed on illegal drug sales.

Video of the shootings shows a Chrysler 300 pull up next to a Dodge Challenger in the Filibertos restaurant parking lot, police said. One of the victims, Landon Klein, 25, gets out of the Chrysler, walks to the drivers window of the Challenger and has a brief conversation with Devon Neff.

Klein is then seen punching Neff several times before walking away, police said. Neff pointed a gun out of the window and shot Klein, according to police.

Police said Neff then got out of his car and walked to the rear of the Challenger as the passenger door of the Chrysler opened. Neff allegedly shot the passenger, Honeylynne Garcia, 25, several times, police said.

Neff left the scene, later calling police and reporting himself as the shooter and claiming self-defense, police said.
An estimated 91% of Tucsons families with children 17 and younger are eligible for the latest federal child tax credit, a study says. The monthly payments should show up in peoples bank accounts starting Thursday, July 15.

Tucson is ranked as one of the top 10 cities nationwide when it comes to the proportion of families with children that will receive benefits from the latest federal coronavirus relief package, the LendingTree study says. The study focused on the 100 largest cities nationwide.

This latest effort, known as the American Rescue Plan, will provide up to $3,600 annually per child to qualifying families with kids younger than 6. Families with kids between ages 6 and 17 will receive up to $3,000 per child.

Payments go out on the 15th





Payments will not be provided in a lump sum. Half of the money will be apportioned in monthly payments through the end of 2021. Eligible families can claim the other half when they file their 2021 taxes next year.

The money will be sent out on the 15th of each month for the rest of the year.
According to UES report to regulators on the death of the Kingman customer, the utility had shut the customers power off on May 13 for nonpayment of $1,885, after the customer had failed to keep up with three separate payment plans since April 2020.

The customers name and address and other information was redacted from the public version of the UES report, amid privacy concerns.

The customer had established service in 2010 and been disconnected for nonpayment and reconnected six times from 2011 to May 2019, when UES said it found evidence the customer had removed the companys electric meter and replaced it with a meter stolen from another address.

The utility reached a compromise to bill the customer $620 for reconnection, including $370 for the estimated cost of power used through the bogus meter but no payment was made, and the account was closed and the arrearage referred to a collection agency.

The customer reestablished service in April 2020 but failed to keep up with three separate payment plans, prompting UES to cancel the payment arrangement and demand full payment of $1,885 in late April of this year.

After sending a disconnect notice and trying to reach the customer by phone over the subsequent two weeks, UES shut the customers power off on May 13.
Alabama Republican Party Chairman John Wahl said Paschal is a man of exceptional character whose message resonated with Shelby County residents.

"It is something we've been working on for a long time, breaking that stereotype that liberals have put out there that there are no conservative minorities. That is not true. We are super excited about Kenneths election and believe it is just the beginning, Wahl said.

The political parties in the Alabama Legislature are almost entirely divided along racial lines. Paschal will be the only Black Republican. The Alabama Senate and House each have one white Democratic member.

The GOP-controlled Legislature in 2017 had to redraw legislative maps under court order to fix racial gerrymandering in 12 districts. The ruling came after Black lawmakers filed a lawsuit challenging the maps as stacking and packing Black voters into designated districts to make neighboring districts whiter and more likely to elect conservative Republicans.

Paschal told The Associated Press that after leaving the military, he thought about where he fit politically and said that is with the Republican Party because he is conservative.

On the campaign trail, he said some people wrongly presumed he was a Democrat.

We have put people in the box based on your skin color. ... Hopefully, we can change that," he said.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
One of Perry's lawyers, Brendan Hurson, said he had left his extremist ideology in the rear view mirror.

FBI agents seized a rifle, ammunition, a black tactical vest containing two ballistic plates and other gun accessories when they searched his Dundalk home in October 2020. Perry had a 2002 burglary conviction that made it illegal for him to possess a firearm.

In April 2020, Perry had his girlfriend buy the lower receiver of a rifle at a Baltimore County gun shop. Perry purchased other gun components from Amazon last year to build a complete weapon, having the parts shipped to his home in his girlfriend's name.

Perry told FBI agents that his fiancee decided to buy the gun for her self-defense because he often traveled for work. She told the agents she wasn't involved in assembling the rifle but that a neighbor had helped Perry build it. She also said she had seen Perry wearing body armor with the rifle slung around his neck while he washed dishes.

Perry insisted that it was his girlfriends weapon, but conceded that the FBI would probably find his fingerprints on it, said a court filing that accompanied Perrys guilty plea. Perry also admitted that he would have used the weapon himself for self-defense if put in a position that it was necessary.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The Biden administration on Thursday convened the first meeting of its community violence intervention collaborative, a group of mayors and administration officials that will share best practices and work closely with the federal government to reduce gun violence.

The White House has touted its investments in these programs as one of the ways it is working to reduce gun violence and combat crime, as Republicans are increasingly looking to use a nationwide increase in violent crime as a political cudgel against Democrats ahead of next years midterm elections.

According to details shared first with The Associated Press, Thursdays meeting was led by Susan Rice, director of the White House Domestic Policy Council, and Julie Rodriguez, director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs. It included the mayors of 10 cities involved in the 15-city collaborative: Atlanta; Chicago; Baltimore; Los Angeles; Philadelphia; Newark, New Jersey; Miami-Dade County, Florida; St. Paul, Minnesota; Washington, D.C.; and Austin, Texas.

The mayors will continue to meet biweekly throughout the summer, and monthly into the fall, to share best practices.
PHOENIX (AP)  A U.S. prosecutor trying to send a Phoenix driving school owner to Iraq to face charges in the 2006 killings of two Iraqi police officers acknowledged Thursday that statements made by people claiming to have witnessed the crimes contained inconsistencies but still urged a judge to sign off on the request.

Prosecutor Todd Allision said documents provided by the Iraqi government in its extradition request establish probable cause to support the two murder charges against Ali Yousif Ahmed Al-Nouri, an Iraqi native who came to the United States as a refugee in 2009 and became a U.S. citizen in 2015.

Ahmed is accused of participating in the two attacks on the streets of Fallujah as the leader of an al-Qaida group. Ahmed has denied being involved in the killings and being a member of a terror group.

Ahmeds attorney, Jami Johnson, said some people who gave investigators information didnt witness the shootings and learned about them secondhand. Johnson also said a man in Iraqi police custody who claimed to be a member of the terror group once told investigators that Ahmed took an officers gun during one of the killings, while saying another time that someone else made away with the weapon.
When Mylan acquired the right to market and distribute the devices in 2007, an EpiPen package cost about $100. Today, it costs more than $650 without pharmacy coupons or manufacturer discounts.

The proposed settlement comes three weeks after U.S. District Judge Daniel Crabtree dismissed most of the claims against Mylan. But he allowed other antitrust claims against the company to proceed to trial, which is scheduled to begin Sept. 7.

A Pfizer spokesperson denied any wrongdoing in an email to KCUR, saying the resolution reflects a desire by the company to avoid "the distraction of continued litigation and focus on breakthroughs that change patients lives.

Rex Sharp, a lawyer for the plaintiffs, said his clients were pleased that Pfizer had agreed to the settlement, noting it would still need the court's approval. He said they look forward to going to trial on the remaining claims against Mylan.

When Crabtree dismissed most of the claims against Mylan, he also granted a summary judgment to Mylans former CEO, Heather Bresch, the daughter of Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia. Most of the price hikes occurred during her tenure. She stepped down in 2020 following Mylans merger with Pfizers Upjohn unit to form Pennsylvania-based Viatris.

-

This story has been corrected to reflect that Mylan, which has merged to form Viatris, is based in Pennsylvania, not Maryland. It also clarifies that Meridian Medical Technologies is based in Maryland.

For copyright information, check with the distributor of this item, KCUR-FM.
At this stage of any investigation such as this, it is exceedingly difficult to know precisely what evidence, witnesses, and information are of ultimate importance, and what evidence, witnesses, or information proves to be of little value, the State Law Enforcement Division and the Colleton County Sheriffs Office wrote in court papers.

Colleton County deputies turned the investigation over to state police almost immediately.

The Post and Courier's lawyer argued the state agency was heavy-handed with how it blacked out information in the reports. He said the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act requires the agency to say exactly how any information not released would affect the investigation instead of allowing officials to just say it might cause a problem.

State police released 18 pages of reports last month. All but one page had redactions and some pages were entirely blacked out.
Ten years ago: Rupert Murdoch accepted the resignation of The Wall Street Journals publisher, Les Hinton, and the chief of his British operations, Rebekah Brooks, as the once-defiant media mogul struggled to control an escalating phone hacking scandal. Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony announced they were breaking up after seven years of marriage.

Five years ago: Donald Trump chose Indiana Gov. Mike Pence, an experienced politician with deep Washington connections, as his running mate.

One year ago: George Floyds family filed a lawsuit against the city of Minneapolis and the four police officers charged in his death, alleging the officers violated Floyds rights when they restrained him and that the city allowed a culture of excessive force, racism and impunity to flourish in its police force. (The city would agree to pay $27 million to settle the lawsuit in March 2021.) As coronavirus cases surged to record levels in the Los Angeles area, organizers canceled the 2021 New Years Day Rose Parade in Pasadena for the first time in 75 years. Walmart became the largest retailer to require customers to wear face coverings at all of its stores. Thousands of auto racing fans gathered at Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee for a NASCAR All-Star race, the nations largest sporting event since the pandemic began; it was won by Chase Elliott.

Todays Birthdays: Actor Patrick Wayne is 82. R&B singer Millie Jackson is 77. Rock singer-musician Peter Lewis (Moby Grape) is 76. Singer Linda Ronstadt is 75. Rock musician Artimus Pyle is 73. Arianna Huffington, co-founder of The Huffington Post, is 71. Actor Celia Imrie is 69. Actor Terry OQuinn is 69. Rock singer-musician David Pack is 69. Rock musician Marky Ramone is 69. Rock musician Joe Satriani is 65. Country singer-songwriter Mac McAnally is 64. Model Kim Alexis is 61. Actor Willie Aames is 61. Actor-director Forest Whitaker is 60. Actor Lolita Davidovich is 60. Actor Shari Headley is 58. Actor Brigitte Nielsen is 58. Rock musician Jason Bonham is 55. Actor Amanda Foreman is 55. R&B singer Stokley (Mint Condition) is 54. Actor-comedian Eddie Griffin is 53. Actor Reggie Hayes is 52. Actor-screenwriter Jim Rash is 50. Rock musician John Dolmayan is 49. Actor Scott Foley is 49. Actor Brian Austin Green is 48. Rapper Jim Jones is 45. Actor Diane Kruger is 45. Actor Lana Parrilla (LAH-nuh pa-REE-uh) is 44. Rock musician Ray Toro (My Chemical Romance) is 44. Actor Laura Benanti is 42. Actor Travis Fimmel is 42. Actor Taylor Kinney is 40. Actor-singer Tristan Mack Wilds is 32. Actor Medalion Rahimi is 29. Actor Iain Armitage (TV: Big Little Lies Young Sheldon) is 13.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP)  A gunman who killed nine co-workers at a California rail yard in May harbored dark thoughts about harming two specific people, according to a report by customs agents who questioned him upon his return to California from a trip to the Philippines in 2016.

The two names were redacted from the report released Wednesday by U.S. Customs and Border Protection after a Freedom of Information Act request from the Bay Area News Group, the Mercury News reported.

It is unclear if the two people were among the shooting victims or connected to the Valley Transportation Authority, where on May 26 Sam Cassidy, 57, carried out the deadliest mass shooting in Bay Area history.

The report raises new questions about why federal customs agents at the San Francisco airport appear to have never informed the VTA or local law enforcement just 35 miles (56 kilometers) away about what the agency labeled a Significant Encounter with Cassidy.

Santa Clara District Attorney Jeff Rosen said Wednesday that he had received a copy of the redacted report last week.
Many of the new arrivals are economic migrants found ineligible for asylum by Italian authorities. Most other European Union nations have been largely unresponsive to Italy's repeated appeals that they take in some of the asylum-seekers, many of whom want to reach jobs or families in northern Europe.

Amnesty International said that in the first six months of this year, more than 7,000 people intercepted at sea were forcibly returned to a Libyan camp.

Detainees held there told Amnesty International they faced torture and other ill-treatment, cruel and inhuman detention conditions, extortion and forced labor, the report said.

At another detention facility, in Tripoli, according to the group's report, Former detainees there said that guards raped women and some were coerced into sex in exchange for their release or for essentials such as clean water. 

For years now, rights groups and officials at U.N. agencies that work with migrants and refugees have cited survivor testimony about systematic abuse in the camps, including forced labor, beatings, rapes and torture. The abuse often accompanies efforts to extort money from families before migrants are allowed to leave Libya on traffickers' boats.
Departing human rights ombudsman Adam Bodnar said the verdict amounted to telling the top European court that Poland will not apply its rulings.

But Poland's justice minister, Zbigniew Ziobro, who is behind the controversial changes to the justice system, praised the ruling saying it defends Poland's constitutional order against the lawless interference and aggression of the law coming from European bodies.

Wednesday ruling was triggered by a 2020 interim decision by the European Court of Justice that ordered the suspension of a new chamber at Polands Supreme Court that was set up to discipline judges and prosecutors.

Critics view the chamber as a tool for sanctioning those critical of the changes the government has made to the judiciary since winning power in 2015. The government insists the changes are needed to free the justice system of lingering influences of the communist era, but critics say they just put the justice system under political control.

The changes have put Poland on a collision course with the EU that has triggered sanctioning procedures, and Wednesday's ruling only adds to the conflict.
While Tucson is still months away from the official end of the 2021 monsoon season, the city has already received more rain than what 2020's disappointing monsoon season graced us with.
Theres no mystery why Trump wants to keep his baseless narrative alive. The fiction transforms him from a loser to, if not a winner, at least a victim.

It maintains his presumptive claim on his partys 2024 presidential nomination if he decides to seek it, and it gives him a cause around which he can raise money.

The consequences go well beyond Trumps political future. As Jonathan Rauch of the Brookings Institution writes in his important new book, The Constitution of Knowledge: A Defense of Truth: When compromise fails, ungovernability sets in.

Rauch argues that one root of our current political crisis is an epistemic war, a battle over whether such a thing as objective truth exists  or whether politicians should be free, as one Trump aide argued, to invent alternative facts.

Epistemic warfare is now the modus operandi of the Republican Party, Rauch told me last week. Its become a substitute for ideology or policy.

He said he considers Trump the greatest innovator in disinformation since the 1930s. (And yes, he means since Adolf Hitler and Josef Stalin.)
Damon said he will not be working this fall so he can get his family settled in New York and get his kids ready for new schools.

He talked with Doane about shooting Stillwater, what the COVID-19 pandemic taught him, his past films, how his children view his work and why he wants to make sure his children are grounded.

Look  theyre growing up with a lot more stuff than  their mom or I ever had and so  thats  so we keep an eye on that, Damon tells Doane, admitting that he worries about it.

Yeah, I worry  but, you know  I think when I got to Harvard I met a lot of kids who are very wealthy,  and some of them were in a lot of pain there. Their parents werent there for them, you know, like at all. And I remember thinking Oh, I get it,  like, thats money doesnt solve anything.

The release of Stillwater was delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The film is arriving at a time when the industry hopes to rebound.

Hopefully people will get back in the habit of coming out together and going so that we can all still have jobs, Damon says.

You say hopefully. Do you worry about that? Doane asks.
Ever dreamed of opening an artisan boutique and settling down for good in an idyllic village in Italy's deep south where it's warm almost all year-round  and get paid to do it?

For those willing to take the plunge, it could soon no longer be just a dream.

The region of Calabria plans to offer up to 28,000 ($33,000) over a maximum of three years to people willing to relocate to sleepy villages with barely 2,000 inhabitants in the hope of reversing years of population decline.

These include locations near the sea, or on mountainsides, or both.

This isn't money for nothing, however. In order to get the funds, new residents must also commit to kickstarting a small business, either from scratch or by taking up preexisting offers of specific professionals wanted by the towns.

There are a few other catches too.

Applicants must take up residency and  sorry boomers  be a maximum of 40 years old. They must be ready to relocate to Calabria within 90 days from their successful application.

It's hoped the offer will attract pro-active young people and millennials eager to work.
Oklahoma has earned the approval of the U.S. Department of Education for its plan to use about $1.4 billion in federal stimulus money for elementary and secondary education.

The approval for state and education leaders take on how Oklahoma should deploy the American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief means the feds will distribute the final third, $498 million, allocated for the state.

Oklahomas recovery plan, called Ready Together Oklahoma, is dynamic and robust guidance that addresses the most pressing matters for students and families amid the pandemic, said State Superintendent Joy Hofmeister. We are proud of our work toward recovery, and we are grateful to the USDE for their swift approval of our plan.

The funds come with the requirement that at least 20% be used to address students learning loss and social-emotional needs.

Oklahoma is targeting its stimulus funds to safely reopen and sustain the safe operation of schools and to equitably expand opportunity for students who need it most, particularly those most affected by the learning conditions amid the pandemic.
Wright and state Rep. Melissa Provenzano visited VSM over the Fourth of July weekend as residents in 50 apartments faced a deadline to get out of their homes because they had been deemed uninhabitable by management. The visit came just days before the city was to shut off the complexs water for failing to pay a $108,000 past-due bill. The potential catastrophe was averted with a last-minute payment.

Wright told her fellow councilors Wednesday that a common misconception about Vista Shadow Mountain is that it serves exclusively low-income tenants, when in fact it is a mixed-income complex with rents ranging from $700 to $1,400 a month. Unfortunately, she added, the deplorable conditions at VSM are not uncommon in Tulsa.

There are more of these scenarios in our city, and I think were shining a light, and I think we need to have a broader discussion about policy and a game plan for moving forward, Wright said.

Becky Gligo, executive director of Housing Solutions, a nonprofit advocacy group, was among the volunteers who recently hosted a pop-up resource clinic for VSM tenants.
Hern said his office was also not part of the event organization. But he reiterated that we need to work together to reach a solution all the tribes agree to.

One thing I will say is we cant keep taking a bunch of steps forward and a bunch of steps back, Hern said.

For his part, Kunzweiler stressed his interest in being accessible to the crowd and drew attention to his cellphone number  which he showed on a projector screen  at least twice. In doing so, he said he wanted to hear from anyone who had questions about how the McGirt ruling could affect them.

Though he at times struggled to be heard over the crowd, Kunzweiler attempted to show how the state court system has lost out on the opportunity to help victims of crime whose cases can no longer proceed there after not being pursued in federal or tribal courts.

But Golden said tribal and federal courts have got to have a little bit of time to adjust to the drastic increase in cases following the ruling.

Theyre adding more prosecutors. Theyre adding more staff, she said. She added: For (the panel) to imply the federal government is inept to prosecute these cases, or more inept than they are, is  condescending to the federal government.
Of the three people selected to join Jeff Bezos on his trip to space, an 82-year-old Oklahoma State University alumna has more than earned it.

Bezos announced in an Instagram video that Wally Funk would have a spot on his flight into space as an honored guest. If it happens, she will become the oldest person to enter space.

She is used to being the first of things.

She graduated from OSU in 1960 to become the youngest member of the Mercury 13, a group of 13 women who successfully underwent the same rigorous testing as the first astronauts. It was a private venture meant to pave the way for women in space but was canceled.

Funk is scheduled to join Bezos, his brother and an auction winner to board Blue Origins first crewed spaceflight on Tuesday  the anniversary of the 1969 Apollo moon landing.

She was the first woman to become a Federal Aviation Administration inspector and National Transportation Safety Board air safety investigator, investigating more than 450 accidents in her career.

Throughout her life, Funk has been a flight instructor. She estimates logging more than 19,500 hours and teaching more than 3,500 students.
SINGAPORE -- Singapore reported its highest number of local coronavirus cases in 10 months on Wednesday, after the discovery of a cluster among hostesses and customers of KTV karaoke lounges.

Of the 56 new community infections, 42 were linked to the KTV outbreak, the health ministry said.

The ministry has been investigating infections among what it said were Vietnamese hostesses who frequented KTV lounges or clubs and has offered free COVID-19 testing to anyone potentially exposed.

The first known case was a Vietnamese woman who sought medical help on Sunday, local media reported.

Singapore has yet to reopen KTV lounges and clubs and authorities said the places where the virus spread were operating as food and beverage outlets.

Singapore police said in a statement theyhad arrested 20 women late on Wednesday, among them South Koreans, Malaysians, Thai and Vietnamese, for alleged vice activities at KTV lounges

Police also planned to step up checks and enforcement on such activities, the statement said.

Health Minister Ong Ye Kung had earlier warned police would take action against violators.

"Any outlets providing hostess services, dice games and all this very close contact, were never allowed," he told local media, according to CNA.

"So for this to now happen has been troubling (and) disappointing."

Ong said there was no plan to reverse recently loosened restrictions because of the cluster, citing progress in vaccinations.

Among those infected was also a cruise passenger hospitalised on Wednesday. Nearly 3,000 passengers and crew were confined to their cruise cabins, awaiting for COVID-19 tests.

Singapore has dealt swiftly with most of its coronavirus outbreaks and imposed targeted restrictions in May aimed at slowing the spread of the Delta variant.

It is aiming to complete the vaccination of two-third of its population by Aug. 9.
Vietnams Ministry of Health on Wednesday announced that it has so far distributed a total of 8,166,800 million doses of various COVID-19 vaccines to authorities and agencies throughout the country.

According to the Ministry of Health, Vietnam received just 3.9 million jabs in the first half of 2021, far fewer than domestic demand, due to a global shortage of vaccine supply.

As more shipments of vaccine are expected to land in Vietnam in July, the Southeast Asian country is anticipating to have received a total of 8.8 million doses by the end of the month.

The jabs will be administered on the principle of parity and transparency, the ministry stated.

Vaccine distribution will be carried out under the prime ministers direction and will prioritize outbreak sites, as well as provinces and cities in key economic regions, areas undertaking government-level economic development plans, locales with many industrial zones, industrial clusters with a large number of workers and dwellers, and places along international border gates.

Based on these criteria, Ho Chi Minh City, Bac Giang Province, and Bac Ninh Province were given vaccine priority due to the grave developments of COVID-19 infections in these areas.

The Ministry of Health will stick to these criteria in the near future, the ministry affirmed.

Provinces and cities that have received the jabs are required to push forward with their vaccination plan for prioritized demographics, as stated in the Prime Ministers Resolution, or add more priority groups if the situation calls for it.

In Vietnams current inoculation campaign, priority groups for COVID-19 vaccination include workers in at-risk or essential sectors, namely industrial zones, manufacturing plants, transport services, credit services, tourism, hospitality, food and beverages, banking, healthcare, medicine, medicine supplies, retail, wholesale, traditional markets, customs, electricity and water, as well as teachers, notaries, lawyers, and auction houses.

On top of that, frontline workers, residents in tourism hotspots, freelance workers, Vietnamese citizens preparing for work, study or residence in foreign countries, foreign experts, and diplomats in Vietnam will also be prioritiszed.

The Ministry of Health expects to receive 124 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine by the end of the year.

The ministry said on Wednesday that U.S. vaccine maker Pfizer would provide an additional 20 million doses, co-developed with BioNTech, to administer to 12-18-year-olds.

After successfully containing the disease for much of the pandemic, Vietnam has faced a more stubborn outbreak since late April, with a surge in daily infections reaching record levels, adding to pressure on the government to accelerate inoculations.

However, the vaccination campaign is still in its early stages, with fewer than 300,000 people fully vaccinated thus far.

It has so far used AstraZeneca's viral vector vaccine and last week took delivery of 97,000 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA shot.

The country said it would offer Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine as a second dose option for people inoculated 8-12 weeks prior with a first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine.

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After being dismissed from his job as a teacher at Nguyen Du Middle School in Da Lat City of Lam Dong Province 15 years ago, Le Cao Tanh went for a career in law and eventually triumphed over his old employer in a wrongful termination lawsuit.

Discussing with Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper, Le Cao Tanh revealed that he has just received the decision from the judge panel of the High Peoples Court in Ho Chi Minh City, which stated Tanhs victory in his wrongful termination lawsuit against Nguyen Du Middle School.

As per the lawsuit that Tanh filed, he was once employed as a literature and civic education teacher at Nguyen Du Middle School in Da Lat.

In 2006, Tanh was fired for slapping a student who verbally attacked him.

He subsequently brought the case to court, requiring the Lam Dong Department of Education and Training to revoke the dismissal and pay him an amount of compensation after his effort to mediate with the school management failed.

Two years later, he appealed the lawsuit at a trial after both the Peoples Courts of Da Lat City and Lam Dong Province dismissed his case.

During the pursuit of the case in the following years, Tanh studied the law and passed the bar exam to become a lawyer in 2010.

His lawsuit, however, would drag on ten more years due to repeated instances of appeals from both sides.

In early 2020, the ruling came in his favor as the Peoples Court of Lam Dong Province turned down the appeal of Nguyen Du Middle School, stating that they had to reinstate Tanhs position and compensate him VND615 million (US$26,593).

Discontent with the ruling, the Nguyen Du management continues to appeal to the High Peoples Court in Ho Chi Minh City, but the judge panel there reserved the decision made by the Peoples Court of Lam Dong Province.

This decision will be considered final unless another appeal is filed to the Supreme Peoples Court of Vietnam.

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South Korean sport shoe maker Changshin Vietnam has allowed all workers in its three factories in Dong Nai Province to be off from work for epidemic prevention following the detection of COVID-19 positive cases among its workers.

Changshin Vietnam Co. Ltd., located in Vinh Cuu District under the southern province, released the decision on Wednesday after rapid coronavirus antigen tests returned some positive cases at some workshops of the company.

Accordingly, nearly 42,000 workers at three factories in Vinh Cuu and two other districts, Long Thanh and Tan Phu, began their leave from 2:30 pm on Wednesday, said Dang Tuan Tu, the companys trade union president.

The leave, which will last until next Monday, is aimed at protecting the health of workers and their families and the overall community, Tu said.

During the leave period, the company will disinfect all its premises, identify all direct contacts of the positive coronavirus cases, and continue the rapid testing for those workers who have yet to be tested, the trade union president said.

Depending on the actual situation, the company will issue further notice to its workers," he said.

Following the detection of COVID-19 infections at Changshin Vietnam, the Dong Nai administration is considering to blockade two related locations, Trang Dai in Bien Hoa City and Thanh Phu Ward in Vinh Cuu District, said Phan Huy Anh Vu, director of the provincial Department of Health.

This image shows workers at a workshop of Chingshan Vietnam Co. Ltd. waiting for their samples to be taken for COVID-19 testing. Photo: B.A. / Tuoi Tre

As Changshin Vietnam is a labor-intensive manufacturer, whose workers are living in many rented houses and residential areas, the department has warned about risks of new infection clusters in the coming time.

Dong Nai health workers confirmed 177 coronavirus infections on Thursday morning, which have taken the provinces tally of patients to 697 cases since April 27, when the pandemics fourth wave erupted in Vietnam.

Among the latest cases, 82 were detected in Dong Nai's Bien Hoa City, while 34 and 24 cases were reported respectively in Cam My and Nhon Trach, two districts in the province.

Bien Hoa is leading the province in infection rates, at 42 percent of the total COVID-19 cases, followed by the districts of Thong Nhat, Nhon Trach, and Cam My.

Recent COVID-19 outbreaks in Dong Nai originated from people coming from wholesale markets in Ho Chi Minh City, the local health department said.

The Ministry of Health confirmed 805 coronavirus cases on Thursday morning, taking Vietnams total patient number to 38,239, including 9,624 recoveries and 138 deaths, as recorded since early 2020.

Since April 27, the Southeast Asian country has registered 43,710 domestic infections.

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A shipment of 921,400 AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine shots, a portion of a 30-million-dose order, has arrived in Ho Chi Minh City.

The batch landed at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in the southern Vietnamese city on Thursday morning.

This is part of the 30 million doses that Vietnam Vaccine JSC (VNVC) has purchased from AstraZeneca with the assistance from the Ministry of Health.

AstraZeneca previously sent a total of 985,600 jabs via three shipments on February 24, May 25, and July 9.

According to Ngo Chi Dung, chairman and general director of VNVC, the 921,400 doses will be handed over to the health ministry so that they can be administered to local residents, particularly citizens in virus-hit areas.

Vietnam has so far received more than nine million COVID-19 vaccine shots, including about 6.5 million doses of AstraZeneca via the COVAX scheme, purchase, and donations from Japan; 2,000 doses of Sputnik V donated by the Russian government; 500,000 doses of Vero-Cell by Sinopharm gifted by the Chinese government; 97,000 doses of Pfizer/BioNTech through direct purchase; and two million jabs of Moderna donated by the U.S. via COVAX.

A total of 4,146,767 doses have been administered since the country rolled out inoculation on March 8, with 286,772 having completed the two-dose regimen.

Vietnam had documented 38,239 COVID-19 cases as of Thursday morning, with 9,624 recoveries and 138 deaths, according to the Ministry of Health statistics.

The country has recorded 34,710 local infections in 58 provinces and cities since the fourth outbreak began on April 27.

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Two brothers drowned while swimming at a beach in Cua Lo Town, located in the north-central Vietnamese province of Nghe An, on Wednesday.

The bodies of the two victims, 43-year-old V.V.H. and 40-year-old V.V.H., brothers from Nghi Loc District, were handed over to family members on Wednesday evening, according to Cua Lo authorities.

The two men were swept into the sea by strong currents while swimming at Cua Lo Beach at around 7:45 pm that same day, according to some witnesses.

Witnesses called local authorities for help.

Rescuers swiftly arrived at the scene and managed to retrieve the first victims body at around 8:00 pm on Wednesday and the second about 20 minutes later.

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A man from the northern Vietnamese province of Hung Yen has attempted to kill himself by jumping off his house after murdering his six-year-old grandson with a knife.

The incident took place in Phung Hung Commune, Khoai Chau District on Wednesday afternoon, a district-level police official confirmed later the same day.

At around 1:00 pm, residents contacted local police after Nguyen Van Hung, 51, locked the door of his house from the inside and threatened his wife and six-year-old grandson with a knife.

Hung later attacked the boy with his weapon and rushed to the third floor, before attempting suicide by jumping off the house.

Both Hung and the grandson were brought to the hospital for emergency treatment.

The man survived the fall, but the young boy succumbed to his serious injuries.

Preliminary information showed that the incident arose from Hung jealousy in his relationship with his wife, Thanh Nien (Young People) newspaper reported.

Further investigation is ongoing.

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Two women in Dak Nong Province, located in Vietnam's Central Highlands region, have been slapped with hefty fines totaling more than VND1.01 billion (US$44,000) for purchasing eight endangered Bengal monitors against the law.

According to the penalty decision signed by provincial chairman Ho Van Muoi, Phan Thi Truong, 34, hailing from Krong No District, had to pay a fine of VND285 million ($12,430) for illegally buying two Bengal monitors weighing 4.9kg in total.

Nguyen Thi Hue, 49, from the same district, has been fined VND725 million ($31,610) for unlawfully purchasing and keeping six other Bengal monitors weighing a total of 12.1kg.

The Bengal monitor, whose scientific name is Varanus bengalensis, is found widely distributed over the Indian subcontinent, as well as parts of Southeast Asia and West Asia, with its length ranging from about 61 to 175cm from the tip of the snout to the end of the tail.

In Vietnam, this large lizard is classified as a rare and endangered wild animal protected by the law.

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This could be a miracle of TV nature

US media report Jennifer Carpenter is returning to Dexter, despite he character Deb having been killed off (newsflash, spoiler) in Season 8.

Thats likely to see her revived via flashback storylines. Given the return is set 10 years after Dexter undertook his lumberjack career, hopefully there will be no discernible difference to her appearance. The series is also being referred to as a reimagining in some circles.

Also returning is John Lithgow who featured as the villain of Season 4.

As all Dexter fans know, we saw the end of the Trinity Killer, so that by definition means its a flashback, Lithgow told Deadline. It was just wonderful to rejoin that gang  including Michael [C. Hall] and Jennifer Carpenter and [showrunner] Clyde Phillips.

I think in this case, the story thats being told is worth telling in a way that other proposals didnt, and I think enough time has passed where its become intriguing in a way that it wasnt before, Hall said of the returning season. And lets be real: people found the way that show left things pretty unsatisfying, and theres always been a hope that a story would emerge that would be worth telling. I include myself in the group of people that wondered, What the hell happened to that guy? So Im excited to step back into it. Ive never had that experience of playing a character this many years on.

Dexter will screen in Australia on Paramount+ later this year.
Actor Jerry OConnell will become a new co-host for US chat show The Talk.

He joins Sheryl Underwood, Carrie Ann Inaba, Elaine Welteroth and Amanda Kloots.

Becoming the first full-time male co-host of the show, his casting follows the high-profile departure of Sharon Osbourne.

OConnell (Star Trek: Lower Decks) has been a frequent guest host in the past few months.

First of all, I want to say you ladies have been so welcoming to me, OConnell said this week. I mean, I came here as a guest months ago, and just from the moment I walked in, youre just gracious, youre kind, youre fun, and it worked. And here we are. Were going to have a lot of fun, we really are.

The Talk screens in Australia on 10.

Source: Hollywood Reporter
Crime

Local animal group helps roosters involved in Rusk County alleged cockfighting incident

Courtesy Representatives from Animal Investigation and Response, a nonprofit from Fort Worth, administer care to the roosters who were seized in an alleged cockfighting incident in Rusk County. Rusk County Pets Alive is helping find the roosters new homes. Courtesy Representatives from Animal Investigation and Response, a nonprofit from Ft. Worth, administer care to the roosters who were seized in an alleged cockfighting incident in Rusk County. Rusk County Pets Alive is helping find the roosters new homes. Courtesy Rusk County Sheriffs Office deputies seized 87 roosters, arrested 13 men and issued 23 citations for illegal cockfighting allegations on July 4 on County Road 2132. Courtesy Rusk County Sheriffs Office deputies seized 87 roosters, arrested 13 men and issued 23 citations for illegal cockfighting allegations on July 4 on County Road 2132.

Roosters seized in Rusk County during an alleged cockfighting incident earlier this month will soon have safe homes thanks to the efforts of a local animal advocacy group.

On July 4, 13 men were arrested on illegal cockfighting charges after Rusk County Sheriffs Office deputies found a crowd of men and roosters in cages at an address on County Road 2132.

While many men ran into the woods, 87 roosters and nine vehicles were seized and 23 citations were issued, Rusk County Sheriff Johnwayne Valdez said last week.

Lisa Waugh, a co-founder of Rusk County Pets Alive, said the Humane Society of the United States asked Rusk County Pets Alive to take legal custody of the birds from the sheriffs office. Seventy-five of the roosters were transferred to the group on Tuesday morning from the sheriffs office.

American Pets Alive is a national organization dedicated to reducing the number of animals euthanized in shelters. Rusk County Pets Alive was founded in 2018 and its focus is on saving animals and reducing overpopulation at its local shelter, the Henderson Animal Center.

Valdez said the local chapter in Rusk County received 75 roosters after the others died.

Rusk County Pets Alive is responsible for marketing the roosters on petfinder.com and handling the paperwork for adoption contracts and information on rehoming retired roosters for adopters. Animal Investigation and Response, a nonprofit from Fort Worth, is handling the roosters daily care, Waugh said.

Waugh said the roosters have been taken to a secure location in Gilmer for continued care and vetting, including microchipping, dewormer, disease testing, behavior assessment and wound treatment, until the birds are cleared for adoption.

Rusk County Pets Alive has never been involved in a rooster rescue before, but we were proud to join this group of organizations along with Sheriff Johnwayne Valdez to help set a new standard in Texas. Traditionally animals confiscated in fighting rings were automatically euthanized, Waugh said. This has been proven to no longer be acceptable practice. The combining of forces of The Humane Society of the United States, Animal Investigation and Response and Rusk County Pets Alive harnesses a tremendous amount of resources, which can be marshaled for good. We are creating a world in which all are truly valued.

She noted the roosters have calmed down tremendously.

Once they are taken out of a stressful environment and treated humanely they quickly become docile, Waugh said. Only a few are still fractious and are being cared for by knowledgeable techs.

Including the incident on July 4, the sheriffs office has responded to two cockfighting cases in the last month, Valdez said.

Its against the law and if people call them in or stumble upon it, obviously were going to act on them, Valdez said. Cockfighting is illegal and as long as its illegal our job is to enforce it.

Since sharing the news of the cockfighting arrests on Facebook, Valdez said the response was huge, noting the roughly 1,200 comments.

It is never my intention to euthanize these birds, Valdez said. (Wed) much rather than give them a chance, I couldnt be happier with the outcome.

An adoption event for the roosters will be held in Gilmer in about a week, Valdez said.

He added he cant say enough about the job of the Humane Society, Rusk County Pets Alive, and Animal Investigation and Response.
Jennifer Hoitsma of Tyler rides her bike with daughter Lucy, 3, in tow and Penelope, 7, on her own bike on the Legacy Trails during the grand opening event for Legacy Trails in Tyler. The paved trail offers space for bicyclists, hikers and walkers to exercise between Tyler and Gresham.
As the United States continues its troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, disputed reports indicate a rising number of asylum seekers of Afghan origin are crossing Turkeys eastern border, Al-Monitor writes. Videos posted on social media this weekend reportedly showed a stream of asylum seekers entering Turkey through its eastern border with Iran, raising concerns among local officials and humanitarian agencies.

For years, Afghans, Pakistanis and asylum seekers from various other nations have made the irregular border crossing by foot in search of security and better work opportunities, usually making headlines only when hit by tragedy such as boat accidents in Lake Van or traffic incidents like one this Sunday that killed at least 12 migrants. Local news reports are now linking an alleged spike in border crossings to the ongoing US troop withdrawal from Afghanistan and territorial gains by the Taliban in the country, prompting rumors of a looming migration wave to Turkey.

It is too early to talk about a mass influx, but there is an increase in the number of arrivals and there are unconfirmed news stories about an accumulation of people on the Iranian side seeking to cross into Turkey, Metin Corabatir, president of the Ankara-based Research Center on Asylum and Migration, told Al-Monitor. He added, We have to observe what will happen in Afghanistan to see what comes next.

In a statement Tuesday, the Turkish Interior Ministrys deputy minister and spokesperson Ismail Catakli claimed videos depicting a refugee influx were misleading and that Turkish borders remained under tight control following the construction of several border walls. We would like to reiterate that our fight against irregular migration continues without interruption, Catakli said in the statement, adding that 62,687 irregular migrants had been detained on Turkeys eastern border so far this year. In response, Rusen Takva, a journalist documenting migration flows along Turkeys eastern border, posted videos Tuesday showing asylum seekers entering the country and stated that at least 1,500 people were making the crossing each day and that their numbers were increasing.

Turkey currently hosts about 4 million refugees, including about 3.7 million Syrians and an estimated 200,000 asylum seekers of Afghan origin. As US President Joe Biden calls for American troops to complete their withdrawal from Afghanistan by Aug. 31, reports indicate a growing number of Afghan nationals may seek refuge outside the country, with Turkey as a potential destination or transit country to Europe for some displaced individuals.

According to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, about 270,000 Afghans have been displaced since January 2021, primarily due to insecurity and violence, raising the total number displaced Afghans to 3.5 million. The developments come as Taliban officials claimed Friday they had taken control of 85% of the territory in Afghanistan. The UNHCR remains deeply concerned about the increase in violence in Afghanistan, Selin Unal, a spokesperson for the UNHCR in Turkey, told Al-Monitor. We are watching the developments closely and continue to assist displaced Afghans affected by the violence.

Unal said people seeking international protection could file applications with Turkeys provincial directorates of migration management after entering the country, where they can qualify for additional assistance while their claims are reviewed. She added UNHCR data has yet to reflect media reports alleging increased border crossings to Turkey.

Underlining the lack of credible sources and monitoring systems to confirm recent migration reports, Corabatir noted the profile of new Afghan arrivals in Turkey has changed in comparison to previous years. The new arrivals are educated and worked mostly in government bureaucracies and they fear if the government collapses, the Taliban would take revenge on them, Corabatir told Al-Monitor. He added that some Afghan nationals had paid smugglers between $2,000-$4,000 to secure Turkish entry visas only to find they had been scammed, and then decided to enter Turkey by foot across its mountainous eastern border.

The developments come as officials in Washington and Ankara continue to discuss Turkeys potential role in running and guarding Kabuls international airport following the US withdrawal. Taliban officials called such plans reprehensible Tuesday and warned Turkish officials of possible consequences if Ankara maintains a troop presence in the country.
Singapore is on the verge of becoming Asia's first major country to fully vaccinate the majority of its population against COVID-19, stepping closer -- at least in theory -- to exiting the pandemic. A government that once spared no effort to trace every case and contain transmission is now drawing up a road map for "living with" the virus. Rather than focusing on "herd immunity," officials now say the disease is unlikely to disappear but can be managed as a less threatening endemic illness like influenza, Nikkei Asia writes.

For the rest of Asia, the city-state will be a testing ground for that approach. Starting Monday, with new community infections consistently in the single digits, Singapore is easing some domestic safety measures. Groups of five, for example, will be allowed to dine at restaurants for the first time in nearly two months, instead of just pairs.

While many restrictions will remain in place -- from mandatory masks to check-ins with a tracing app at public places -- the government has been weighing exit strategies alongside a significant rise in the vaccination rate.

As of Saturday, about 69% of Singapore's 5.7 million residents had received at least one of the required two shots -- more than double the figure two months earlier -- according to the Ministry of Health. The ratio of individuals who had received both doses reached 40%.

"We expect 50% of our population to have received two doses of vaccines around the week of July 26," Health Minister Ong Ye Kung told reporters last Wednesday, adding that Singapore is no longer constrained by vaccine supplies. "That is an important milestone, we can open up even further," Ong said.

Other Asian economies have a long way to go to reach a similar threshold. Fully vaccinated ratios as of late last week stood at almost 17% in Japan, 11% in South Korea, 5% in Indonesia and less than 1% in Vietnam. Several Southeast Asian nations are fighting severe waves of infections, with cities like Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City forced into lockdowns.

Singapore, though, is quickly catching up with countries in the West that have achieved high vaccination rates, including the U.S. at 47% and Germany at 42%. Israel was the first to cross the 60% mark.

Worryingly, Israel has seen daily cases climb from single digits back above 500 in recent weeks, largely sparked by transmissions among unvaccinated young people. Yet Health Ministry data shows only a modest increase in severe cases so far, to 47 as of Sunday, and local media reports say the government is adopting a "soft suppression" strategy. "

There are already indicators and signs from countries with very high vaccination rates that it may well be possible to make COVID-19 more like influenza in terms of morbidity and mortality, provided you have high vaccine coverage," Lawrence Wong, the government's COVID task force co-chair and finance minister, told a briefing last Wednesday. "So this is why we think that it is possible that we could enter into a scenario of 'endemic COVID' where Sars-CoV-2 is treated more like influenza, and we will be able to get on with our lives normally," he said, using the official name of the virus that causes COVID-19. "We are therefore preparing this road map toward this transition of a new scenario."

What might that road map look like?

Details have not been announced, but Ong, Wong and fellow task force minister Gan Kim Yong offered some hints in a Straits Times op-ed late last month. They suggested that "living normally with COVID" would mean, for example, that an infected person can recover at home; that people can get themselves checked regularly using fast and easy tests; that more safety rules can be eased; and that people can travel to less risky countries with mutually recognized vaccine certificates. Some pieces are already in place. Residents can find COVID-19 self-test kits at pharmacies.

The Temasek Foundation, a non-profit organization under state-owned fund Temasek Holdings, also started distributing one free fingertip oximeter per household. The small devices, available through supermarkets and pharmacies, check blood oxygen levels -- the decline of which can be a telltale sign of COVID-19.

Meanwhile, the government has stopped disclosing details of coronavirus cases. Previously, it shared information on every patient, such as ages and places they visited.

A true shift to "living with COVID" would help spur the economy, which marked a record 5.4% contraction last year. The relief would be especially sweet for the food services and event sectors, which have long been required to limit operating capacity.

But with infections soaring in neighboring countries such as Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia, a resumption of travel resembling anything like the pre-pandemic days is likely to take more time. This means Singapore's bread-and-butter transport and tourism sector will continue to suffer, pressuring the government to rethink its growth model.

There are also lingering concerns about the virus itself. One is the risk of the delta and other variants undermining vaccine effectiveness. Pfizer is seeking authorization for third doses after data from Israel showed reduced effectiveness months after inoculation, considering the delta strain's increased transmissibility.

Another worry in Singapore is a relatively low vaccination rate among the elderly, even though seniors were given priority. Health Minister Ong said the ratio of people who have received at least one shot or made an appointment for the first one was 71% among the 70-plus age group -- the lowest among all eligible age groups as of last week. "What we really need to do is to get more of our seniors vaccinated," Ong stressed. "It's not a matter of the elderly saying 'I don't go out therefore I'm safe.' When society opens up, your family members go out and they can bring the virus back home."

Nevertheless, hopes are high as the government expects two-thirds of the population will have had two doses by early next month, right around Singapore's Aug. 9 foundation day. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong is expected to speak about Singapore's COVID-19 situation and its future at the annual National Day Rally.
This year the world celebrates the 60th anniversary of the creation of the Non-Aligned Movement, which has become the second largest political institution after the UN General Assembly. At the heart of the Non-Aligned Movement is the desire for peace and the strengthening of global solidarity, therefore, in recent years, the role of the Movement in the face of global difficulties has increased even more.

The historical Bandung principles, which encourage respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, as well as non-interference in the internal affairs of countries and other principles, are fully consistent with the priorities of Azerbaijan's foreign policy. President Ilham Aliyev said this today, opening an online conference of the Foreign Ministers of the Non-Aligned Movement.

Azerbaijan became a member of the Non-Aligned Movement 10 years ago, gained authority there and in 2016, by a unanimous decision of all member states, Baku was entrusted with the chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement in 2019-2022. In October 2019, Azerbaijan organized the XVIII Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement in Baku. Then Ilham Aliyev promised to take practical steps to uphold the legitimate interests of the countries of the Movement, to protect justice and international law. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Baku, Azerbaijan launched a number of international initiatives to mobilize global efforts against the pandemic, in particular, a database was created covering the basic humanitarian and medical needs of the Movement's member countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) is using this database in the fight against the pandemic as a resource for identifying the needs of the NAM member countries.

Azerbaijan provided humanitarian and financial assistance to more than 30 countries in the fight against the pandemic, made a voluntary financial contribution to WHO in the amount of $ 10 million, half of which was intended for the member states of the Non-Aligned Movement.

Baku also condemned the behavior of some countries that have purchased vaccines in a volume that exceeds their needs. To date, more than 82% of the vaccines available in the world have been purchased by wealthy nations, with only 0.9% of vaccines in low-income countries. Such an attitude prevents developing, especially underdeveloped countries from protecting their populations. On behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement, Azerbaijan put forward a resolution at the UN Human Rights Council to ensure equal and universal access for all countries to vaccines, and in March the resolution was unanimously adopted. According to Ilham Aliyev, the Movement should take coordinated and targeted steps for the period after COVID-19. It may be useful to hold a high-level meeting of the member states of the Non-Aligned Movement to exchange views and determine a position on the recovery period after the pandemic, as well as the creation of a UN High-level Panel on global recovery after the coronavirus.

In his speech, Ilham Aliyev also touched upon the liberation of his territories from the Armenian occupation, which lasted almost 30 years. During this period, Armenia carried out ethnic cleansing against Azerbaijanis, more than a million of whom became internally displaced persons. In February 1992, Armenia committed the Khojaly genocide, hundreds of civilians were killed, including 106 women and 63 children. The Khojaly genocide is recognized by 13 countries.

In 1993, the UN Security Council adopted four resolutions demanding the immediate, complete and unconditional withdrawal of the Armenian armed forces from the occupied territories of Azerbaijan. Several influential international organizations, including the Non-Aligned Movement, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the OSCE, have also adopted relevant decrees and resolutions. However, Armenia ignored the demands of leading international organizations, since its only goal was to maintain the status quo and consolidate the occupation, the President of Azerbaijan said.

In his words, in recent years, Armenia has deliberately violated the negotiation process, threatened Azerbaijan with a new war for new territories. In 2020, Armenia carried out three military provocations on the state border and the former line of contact, as a result of which military personnel and civilians were killed.

In September last year, Armenia launched a large-scale military offensive against Azerbaijan. In response to this aggression, the Azerbaijani army launched a counter-offensive operation and liberated most of the occupied territories.

After being defeated in the 44-day war, Armenia signed an act of surrender on November 10, 2020 and was forced to withdraw its troops from the other occupied territories of Azerbaijan, which itself ensured the implementation of the UN Security Council resolutions. Thus, Azerbaijan put an end to the 30-year-old conflict, restored its territorial integrity and historical justice by military-political means. The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has remained in history, the President of Azerbaijan said.

He called this victory a triumph of international law, justice and values of the Non-Aligned Movement, recalling that the countries of the Movement emphasized in the final document of the Baku summit the inadmissibility of the violent seizure of territories and confirmed that no state recognizes the legality of the situation resulting from the occupation of the territories of Azerbaijan. In July 2020, the Non-Aligned Movement adopted a communique in connection with the provocation committed by the Armenian armed forces on the state border. In October 2020, a statement was adopted as part of an online meeting held at the ministerial level. In both documents, the countries of the Non-Aligned Movement supported Azerbaijan's position and expressed solidarity in its efforts to restore its territorial integrity.

"Here I want to emphasize a specific event that took place during the Patriotic War of Azerbaijan: several members of the UN Security Council, not taking into account the UN Security Council resolutions adopted in 1993, tried to adopt a biased resolution. However, during the discussions in the Security Council, seven members of the Non-Aligned Movement, who supported the position Azerbaijan insisted on adding a reference to the aforementioned Security Council resolutions to the text under discussion. Such a decisive position of the Non-Aligned Movement countries demonstrated their adherence to the Bandung principles and values of the Movement. We perceive this position as a gesture of historical friendship in our bilateral relations, "Ilham Aliyev said.

He recalled that during the occupation, Armenia destroyed cities and villages, all cultural and religious monuments in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan, even cemeteries were wiped off the face of the earth. The goal of Armenia was to erase the trail of Azerbaijanis who lived in these territories for centuries. The city of Agdam was destroyed to such an extent that it is called Hiroshima of the Caucasus. After the liberation of the city of Fizuli from the occupation, not a single building remained there to raise the flag Azerbaijan. All of them were destroyed by Armenia, "the President of Azerbaijan said.

According to him, trips of foreign diplomats and journalists to the liberated territories are now regularly organized: "They have witnessed the atrocities committed by Armenia. International media have documented and highlighted the facts of deliberate destruction and desecration of the cultural and religious heritage of the Azerbaijani people, destruction of cities and villages."

But today Azerbaijan has already started reconstruction work in the liberated territories. Modern urban planning is carried out there. The liberated territories will become a green energy zone. "Azerbaijan, having demonstrated a unique experience of transformation, will turn a destroyed territory four times larger than the territory of Luxembourg into a space of well-being with high living standards," Ilham Aliyev promised, stating that the priority of his country is the dignified and safe return of hundreds of thousands of internally displaced persons to their families. the edges.

Numerous mines laid by Armenia remain the main difficulty in this process. After November 10, 2020, as a result of a mine explosion, about 30 Azerbaijani citizens were killed, more than 100 people were injured. Mines delay the process of reconstruction in the liberated territories and the return of internally displaced persons to their homes.

Demining such vast areas requires significant time and resources. Ilham Aliyev noted that Armenia evades providing maps of minefields and called on the international community to force Yerevan to hand over mining maps of all liberated territories to Azerbaijan.
On July 15 at night, the Azerbaijan Armys positions in the vicinity of the Shusha city came under fire by small arms, according to the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry.

The fire was opened by the illegal Armenian armed detachments that are in the territory of Azerbaijan, where Russian peacekeepers are temporarily deployed. Retaliation fire was inflicted to suppress the activity of the opposing side.

There are no losses or wounded among the military personnel of the Azerbaijan Army Units.
Iranian President-elect Ebrahim Raeisi has congratulated Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on the liberation of the Azerbaijani territories from the Armenian occupation, according to the Iranian embassy in Baku.

It was reported that Raeisi has responded to Ilham Aliyev's congratulatory message on the occasion of his election as Iran's next president sent on July 19.

Expressing appreciation over the Azeri sides congratulatory message, Raeisi, for his part, felicitated Azerbaijans success in liberating its soil, Mehr news agency reported.

The ties between the two countries stretch back to common culture and history and brotherly relations of the two nations, he said, adding that there is a great capacity for further expanding and deepening ties.

With the return of Azerbaijans sovereignty over occupied territories and revival of common borders, itd be better to use the new opportunities and enhance the level of cooperation with mutual efforts to ensure regional peace and security, Raeisi added.

The politician also wished Ilham Aliyev health and success the Azerbaijani nation prosperity.
An institute for genocide studies will be established in Turkey by the decree of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, according to Resmi Gazete.

Yesterday, Erdogan signed a new decree establishing the International Institute for the Study of Genocide and Crimes against Humanity under the auspices of the Rector of Istanbul University.
The Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry has appealed to authorities in neighboring Tajikistan to facilitate the passage to their common border of hundreds of ethnic Kyrgyz who fled Afghanistan amid a major Taliban surge that is raising security concerns in neighboring former Soviet republics, Radio Liberty reports.

The ministry also said on July 15 that it had turned to the United Nations for assistance in bringing to Kyrgyzstan ethnic Kyrgyz who entered Tajikistan from Afghanistan -- many with livestock -- on July 13-14.

According to the ministry, 91 Kyrgyz men, 77 women, and 177 children from the village of Andemin in Afghanistan's Vakhon district in the Badakhshan region are currently in Tajikistan and require assistance to reach Kyrgyzstan.

While fleeing Afghanistan, the ministry said, two Kyrgyz children had died of unknown causes.
Miami Mayor Francis Suarez suggested that the United States should explore the option of air strikes against Cuba.

"What should be contemplated right now is a coalition of potential military action in Cuba," Suarez, a Republican, said in comments on Fox News. Suarez, whose father was born in Cuba and was formerly mayor of Miami, pointed to U.S. interventions in Panama and Kosovo as potential models to follow.

When asked if he was calling for air strikes in Cuba, Suarez said, "What I'm suggesting is that option is one that has to be explored, and one that cannot be just simply discarded."

Suarez's remarks came after Cuba on Sunday saw the largest anti-government protests in years, with thousands demonstrating against a lack of freedoms and a growing economic crisis under Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel and the Communist regime. South Florida has the largest population of Cuban Americans in the country, and Miami in recent days has seen demonstrations in solidarity with the anti-government protestors in Cuba.
Russia has received observer status in the Non-Aligned Movement, the press service of the Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan that chairs the organization reported on Wednesday.

"On July 13-14, 2021, a Mid-Term Ministerial Conference of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) was held under the chairmanship of the Republic of Azerbaijan in a virtual format. <...> By the adopted political declaration, as well as in accordance with the appeal of the Russian Federation, this country is assigned observer status in the Non-Aligned Movement," the statement said.

The decision was made to extend Azerbaijans chairmanship of the organization until the end of 2023. Additionally, the conference participants agreed to hold the next NAM summit at the end of 2023 in Uganda.

In May, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, following talks with his Azerbaijani counterpart Jeyhun Bayramov, reported that the decision on granting Russia observer status in the NAM was almost ready and would be approved soon.

The Non-Aligned Movement is an international organization uniting countries, whose foreign policy is based on the refusal to join any military-political blocs, and the peaceful coexistence of peoples on the principles of independence and equality. It unites 120 countries, while 17 states and 10 international organizations have observer status. In 1970, guest status was introduced granting the right to participate in all NAMs open meetings and events. Russia received this status in 1995.
The use of the Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine has been approved in Nigeria, the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) said in a statement, TASS reports.

"The Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF, Russias sovereign wealth fund) announces the approval of the Russian Sputnik V vaccine against coronavirus by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control of Nigeria (NAFDAC). Nigeria has become the 68th country in the world to approve the Russian vaccine. Total population of all countries, where Sputnik V is approved for use, now exceeds 3.7 billion people, which is nearly half of the global population," the statement said.

"Nigeria is the most populous nation in Africa, and the approval of Sputnik V will provide for using one of the safest and most effective vaccines in the world. Sputnik V is based on a proven human adenoviral vectors platform and is successfully used in over 50 countries. Approval in Nigeria will make an important contribution to the countrys fight against the pandemic," CEO of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) Kirill Dmitriev said.

According to RDIF, "Real world data obtained during vaccination with Sputnik V in a number of countries (Argentina, San-Marino, Serbia, Hungary, Bahrain, Mexico, UAE, Philippines among others) demonstrate that Sputnik V is one of the safest and most effective vaccines against coronavirus".
The OPEC+ countries have not yet agreed with the UAE on the parameters and conditions for a deal to soften oil production restrictions, and consultations are still underway, the UAE Ministry of Energy said.

"We note recent media reports that a compromise has been reached between the UAE and OPEC+ participants on a future oil supply deal. We would like to stress that no agreement has yet been reached with OPEC+. Deliberations and consultations between concerned parties are ongoing," TASS cited the ministry as saying.

Bloomberg reported earlier, citing the agencys sources, that the OPEC+ countries had managed to come to terms with the UAE.

The OPEC+ countries have been unable to agree on the softening of restrictions until the end of the year since early July.
On the sixth anniversary of the JCPOA, Iran Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif advised President of the United States Joe Biden to learn from the proven inefficiency of the sanctions policy against Iran.

In a Wednesday tweet, Zarif wrote, "6 years ago today, #JCPOA resolved a UNSC Chapter VII issue without resorting to war."

"Obama realized his "crippling sanctions" would not cripple Iran or its centrifuges. Trump ineptly thought "maximum pressure" would. Never will," he added.

"@POTUS should look closely at these figures," the foreign minister said addressing US President Joe Biden by releasing a table in his tweet.
Vietnam as of July 10 had reported 26,608 Covid-19 infection cases and 110 deaths.

Nguyen Trung Cap, Deputy Director of the Central Hospital for Tropical Diseases

According to Worldometers, more than 4 million deaths have been reported so far out of 186 million infection cases globally, with deaths accounting for 2.16 percent.

In the US, the fatality rate is 620,000 out of 34 million, or 1.79 percent. The fatality rates are 2.55 percent in the UK, 2.47 percent in Russia, 2.45 percent in Germany, 5.04 percent in China, 1.84 percent and 1.23 percent in South Korea.

The rates in Southeast Asia are 2.64 percent in Indonesia, 1.76 percent in the Philippines and 1.45 percent in Cambodia.

Meanwhile, the rate in Vietnam is 0.41 percent as of July 10 morning, which is lower than that in many other countries.

Nguyen Trung Cap, Deputy Director of the Central Hospital for Tropical Diseases, who has been taking part in treating severely ill patients since the day Covid-19 broke out in Vietnam, explains the varying rates.

Why is the death rate of Covid-19 patients in Vietnam lower than in other countries in the world?

The pandemic waves in Vietnam so far mostly occurred in industrial zones, and the infections are mostly young workers, with few underlying health conditions, so the death rate has been low. However, we also saw some relatively high death rates in some outbreaks which occurred in hospitals with seriously ill patients.

In all outbreaks, we strictly control F0 cases when they are found and try to curb the number of severely ill patients, not letting the figure go beyond the capacity of the intensive care medical system. The shortage of ventilators, the lack of oxygen, and exhausted medical workers have never happened in Vietnam.

We have succeeded in curbing the Covid-19 death rate at a low level compared with many countries in the world.

The fourth outbreak occurred on a large scale with a high number of infections, which requires the treatment system to make greater efforts to preserve this achievement.

As you have said, the intensive care system plays an extremely important role in helping reduce the Covid-19 death rate. What do you think about the capability of the system in Vietnam?

Resuscitation and Emergency is a difficult speciality which requires thorough training. They work hard and the income is modest. It is difficult to attract doctors to the speciality.

Emergency and resuscitation equipment such as ventilators, dialysis machines and ECMO are very expensive, and they are not as profitable as other machines (ultrasound machines, vascular interventions, etc.). So they are not among priority investment items for many hospitals.

This is true except for the three big healthcare centers Hanoi, HCMC, and Hue-Da Nang, and some large provinces which have good resuscitation and emergency equipment, and good staff. Meanwhile, the capability in other localities remains modest.

In the outbreaks so far, Hanoi, HCMC and Hue-Da Nang have been giving support to other cities and provinces. However, if the outbreak is a large scale and if they cannot get strong support anymore, some localities will face difficulties in treating severely ill patients.

According to Worldometers, more than 4 million deaths have been reported so far out of 186 million infection cases globally, with deaths accounting for 2.16 percent. Meanwhile, the rate in Vietnam is 0.41 percent as of July 10 morning, which is lower than that in many other countries.

Many asymptomatic Covid-19 patients or patients with mild symptoms may recover on their own, so some experts believe that it would be better to isolate them and watch their health conditions at home, so as to ease pressure on treatment facilities. What is your opinion?

Newly infected patients may or may not have symptoms. Most of them will enter the recovery period after seven days. But in many cases, patients dont have considerable initial symptoms, but turn critically ill, or even die after 7-8 days. It is impossible to know in advance which cases will be mild or severe.

Covid-19 patients are considered asymptomatic or having mild symptoms if they don't have any symptoms or only have mild symptoms from the day of infection to the day of full recovery.

Do you think we need some solutions to classify severely ill and mildly ill patients?

The key time to classify patients is the 7th-8th day from the time of infection. However, the difficulty is that many cases have no symptoms, so it is difficult to define which day is the 7th or 8th day of the disease.

So, we consider the cases tested positive for nCoV in the first week as the ones at risk of turning severe which need to be closely watched, especially on the 7th-8th day. Meanwhile, those, who dont turn worse after the 8th day will be considered as mild cases. They dont need further treatment and need to be put under quarantine and wait for recovery.

The biggest problem now is that some physicians still make mistakes, considering patients with no symptoms or mild symptoms as mildly ill patients who dont need close care. As a result, severe symptoms were not discovered in a timely way.

The second difficulty is that in order to recognize early the risks of the disease turning more severe, it is necessary to have blood coagulation and immunology tests and proper interpretation.

Since Covid-19 is a new disease, these kinds of tests still cannot be carried out in many places. As a result, doctors only discover problems when they see severe clinical manifestations, such as dyspnea or shock, and the treatment, therefore, is less effective.

The third difficulty is that even the patients with severe lung damage and respiratory failure may not have signs of dyspnea. This condition is called silent hypoxia. If physicians are inexperienced or lack the equipment to measure blood oxygen saturation, it could lead to a critical situation.

What does the healthcare sector need to do to minimize the number of asymptomatic patients who may become critically ill?

Its necessary to consider newly discovered Covid-19 patients as a high-risk group that needs to be closely watched for one week. If any signs of patients getting worse are discovered during that time, patients need to be transferred to the treatment area in accordance with the pathogenesis regimen.

Only the patients who dont have signs of getting worse after one week will be considered as mildly ill patients and transferred to a quarantine area where they will wait for recovery.

In Hai Duong and Bac Ninh, where Covid-19 outbreaks occurred, we applied a treatment model called 3-floor tower.

The treatment system can be imagined as a tower. There are more patients on lower floors with fewer medical workers, while there are fewer patients on higher floors but more medical workers and more technical equipment.

Newly discovered patients need to be placed on the second floor of the tower. If they dont have signs of getting worse after 7-8 days, they will be transferred to the first floor. If they get worse, they will be transferred to the highest floor of the tower to receive intensive treatment.

Nguyen Lien

Health ministry releases Pfizer allocation plan, suggests vaccine mixing Deputy Minister of Health Truong Quoc Cuong has just signed a decision on the allocation plan of 746,460 doses of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to provinces, cities and hospitals across the country.
State President Nguyen Xuan Phuc on July 14 had phone talks with his Romanian counterpart Klaus Iohannis.

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President Phuc expressed gratitude toward Romanias support and prompting the signing of agreements on trade and investment between Vietnam and the EU during the term Romania was rotating chair of the bloc.

He said he was delighted that these agreements have positive influences on the bilateral economic cooperation as two-way trade turnover was up by 10% to 300 million USD in 2020 despite the pandemic.

For his part, President Iohannis affirmed Romania stood ready to accompany Vietnam in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic. He informed the Vietnamese counterpart that his country would donate 100,000 AstraZeneca vaccines to Vietnam and would consider giving more vaccines to assist Vietnam in the coming time.

The two state leaders also exchanged opinions on measures aimed at bolstering bilateral relations, especially in the fields of economy and trade, education and training, as well as human resources, among others./.

Source: VNA
Lo Sanh Phin is now the only Dao man in Ha Giang Province still weaving screens to make paper, a traditional craft of the Dao.

Lo Sanh Phin weaves vau screen.

The Dao make their own paper for use in worship rituals and ceremonies. The manual process of making paper involves spreading pulp on screens woven from a type of bamboo called vau. Weaving these screens is harder than weaving more common items like baskets and papooses.

Phin says it takes him about five days to complete a screen.

In the past villagers brought their damaged screens to my uncle to repair. When he got old and weak more than a decade ago, he transferred the job to me.

Phin cuts vau plants into pieces about 90cm long. He removes the outer bark and splits the bamboo into strips as thin as toothpicks.

The loom used to weave screens is 90cm long and 30cm wide. Phin uses a small bamboo tube to propel the vau strips across plastic warp threads on the loom. When he has finished weaving a screen, he dries it in the sun to make it durable and firm.

He dries the sreens to make them durable and firm.

Trieu Thi Muis family in Thanh Son Hamlet has been making paper for 4 generations. She says she used to buy screens in the market for US$80 a piece, but they were not as good as she had hoped.

Now she buys Phins screens so she can produce higher quality paper.

Screens sold in the market are difficult to use because they are round. They are not as fully stretched as Phins products. Phins vau screens can be used for 2 to 3 years, and only cost about US$35 a piece.

Phin earns between US$120 - 150 a month from selling his screens. He says the extra income is good, but what he really wants is to transfer the craft to someone younger.

Im nearly 70 years old. I want to transfer the craft to someone younger, but there are very few people who want to do this work. It requires meticulousness and carefulness. A few children in my family have learned to do it.

Lo Duc Chiu, head of Thanh Son Hamlet said, Ha Giang Province has only Lo Sanh Phin making screens for the paper-making craft. Screens are indispensable to the paper-making craft of the Dao. We need some incentive policies to encourage young people to keep on doing the craft and preserve this aspect of Dao culture.

Source: VOV/VOV5

H'mong ethnic group continues traditional paper-making craft The unique paper-making craft of the H'mong ethnic group in Hoa Binh Province has been going strong for 300 years.
Still glowing from news SpaceX will build a second rocket-related facility in its industrial park, McGregor reportedly is in the running as a new location for another large company considering locations in Texas and Oklahoma.

McGregor has a 9,600-acre industrial park that easily could accommodate such a development. Elon Musks SpaceX has leased land there since 2003, testing rocket engines that have powered manned spaceflight and supply runs to the International Space Station, and sent satellites into orbit for a range of customers.

Musk tweeted over the weekend that a new McGregor facility would produce 800 to 1,000 rocket engines per year. The initiative would create hundreds of jobs at SpaceX in McGregor, where the company already employs about 500, according to sources. McGregor Mayor Jim Hering told the Tribune-Herald he would not be surprised if production starts by years end.

Hering, though, declined to get specific Wednesday when asked about reports of another prospect possibly considering McGregor for a manufacturing facility.
Wacos rap and hip-hop scene will get an out-of-town boost Saturday night when Houston-area rapper Peso Peso drops in to headline an 8 p.m. show at Mezcals Sugar Shack, 1225 Richland Drive.

It is a chance for the Texas City musician to broaden his audience reach and for Waco hip-hop podcast Pirscription & Maryjane, which invited him, to pull in new listeners as well, said Waco rapper and promoter DJ Pirscription (Payton Bryce).

Peso Peso will cap an evening featuring Rico Roger, Texas Joe, Chedda Blanco, Erasmo G and Dobleuve. Waco graffiti artist Skcoobaveli will create a mural onsite as part of the event.

Peso Peso (Mario Herrera Jr., 26) is best known for his raps and songs Fasho, Uber and Gummo Freestyle, which have enjoyed millions of views on YouTube, and his 2019 album Hardest Ese Eva. He presently records on The Sauce Familia label.

Waco artist Rico Roger will shoot a music video with Peso Peso during his time in Waco. Bryce expects Peso Peso to draw a young and predominantly Hispanic crowd and said he is the first of two notable Houston-area performers booked for Waco in the coming month.
Were excited about this for a number of reasons, Norcross said. Were going to be able to, hopefully, get these folks to the resources they need before theyre in that crisis.

Prosper Waco CEO Suzii Paynter March said CCAST has a caseload of between 25 and 30 people at any given time. The social worker will work with those people on an individual basis, and will go with police to mental health calls involving people who are already on the CCAST roster.

They told us that some of these folks might have 100 touches with the police in a year, or 30 arrests in a year, March said. So there is something that is systemically repetitive.

The social worker will conduct initial needs assessments with people the CCAST unit has contact with to determine if they need housing, transportation, education assistance, employment or mental health care. The worker would follow up with each person at least once a month.

March said compared to police, who show up after the situation has already deteriorated in an interventionist role, social workers are trained in what she calls the service of accompaniment, the long-term help that lasts long after the 911 call.
The fourth floor of the McLennan County Courthouse is about to get another makeover as county officials search for space in the cramped 119-year-old building for two new courtrooms created this year by the Texas Legislature.

County commissioners earlier this month approved a $193,816 budget to turn the former grand jury chambers, complete with its marble columns from Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia, and colorful stained-glass skylights, into a temporary courtroom for another county court-at-law.

The new court, which will be presided over by county appointee Ryan Luna, will be McLennan Countys third county court-at-law. It is set to come online Sept. 1, which puts the county in the position of being awarded new courts with no firm plans or designated places to put them.

County Court-at-Law Judge Brad Cates said he, Luna and County Court-at-Law Judge Vik Deivanayagam will confer to see which of the three judges will sit in the fourth-floor courtroom. Staffing for the county courts is on the second floor, where Cates and Deivanayagams courtrooms are located.

The county courts-at-law handle misdemeanor cases, civil cases with claims up to $250,000 and contested probate matters.

The Legislature also created a new state district courtroom for McLennan County, the countys fifth state district court, but it is not effective until Oct. 1, 2022. That gives the county a bit more time to decide where that courtroom will go. Commissioners are considering long-range plans that likely will include moving up to four of the countys state district courts into the recently gutted former downtown jail on Columbus Avenue. That plan could carry a $10 million price tag, County Judge Scott Felton said.

Luna toured the old grand jury chambers Wednesday with his fellow county judges and two judges from the 10th Court of Appeals  Chief Justice Tom Gray and Justice Matt Johnson. Luna said he is eager to get to work in whatever courtroom he and other county officials decide should be his.

The 10th Court of Appeals is operating a justice short since the May retirement of Justice John Neill, of Burleson. Gov. Greg Abbott will name his replacement. The intermediate appellate court, which has clamored for years for more space, has operated on the fourth floor of the McLennan County Courthouse since its creation in 1923. When the courthouse was built in 1902, it was designed to eventually house an appeals court on the fourth floor.

Commissioners took over the law library on the fourth floor almost two years ago for the countys mental health court and have wrangled about all the space they can from the old courthouse.

Cates said there is no certainty the former grand jury space will be remodeled for use as a county court-at-law before Sept. 1, when Luna starts work.

Anything like that is going to generate some logistical issues, but from a practical standpoint, there just isnt that much space in the courthouse right now and so you have to make due with what youve got, Cates said. I think Judge Felton is trying to do his best to come up with something short-term, and I think they are working on a long-term plan. But how they intend to ultimately get it done is still up in the air.

Gray and Johnson are not pleased with the plan. They said they received limited to no information from Feltons office before learning almost accidentally of the plans to remodel the grand jury chambers. The justices fired off a three-page letter to Felton on Wednesday afternoon outlining their thoughts on the changes and forwarded it to Waco Mayor Dillon Meek, State Sen. Brian Birdwell, State Reps. Charles Doc Anderson and Kyle Kacal and the commissioners court.

The city of Waco by statute is responsible for providing space for the 10th Court, which has remained in the courthouse through an interlocal agreement between the city and county. But as the court, which could be in line to add a fourth justice, and county government have grown over the decades, there have been conversations about the 10th Court leaving the courthouse, despite the historical ramifications that presents.

Gray and Johnson reminded Felton in the letter that the 10th Court already surrendered office space to the county when the mental health court was built. Also, the justices noted that the appellate court, funded by the state, paid $27,150 to the county six years ago as part of an interlocal agreement to put a new heating, ventilation and air-conditioning unit in an area behind the old grand jury room and to allow the court to use other space in the chambers for storage and supplies in an effort to replace the offices the court surrendered in the old law library.

That agreement included moving the HVAC unit (the air handler) into the attic so that we could make full use of the additional floor space in the storage area because it would be climate controlled, the letter to Felton states. Although that project has never been completed, notwithstanding that the funds were paid and the project was started years ago (permits for the work were issued in 2017), we have now learned, somewhat accidentally, that all that space, is going to be used for the new county court at law and that the anticipated project completion date is September 1, 2021, a mere 45 days from now.  This obviously means that we will never receive the benefits of the interlocal agreement.

Johnson, a noted courthouse historian who joined the appellate court in January after serving as 54th State District judge, said Wednesday that the 10th Court has been blindsided by Judge Scott Feltons actions. He said they are contrary to the prior agreement between the court of appeals and the county.

I have seen the plans for the new courtroom that includes a jury box but has no jury deliberation room, Johnson said. On day one, the new space will not work well for jury selection or jury trials. It is unfortunate that the county is embracing a site plan as dysfunctional as the old Hillcrest Hospital. It really is a shame that our historical courthouse is being chopped up and not preserved. The entire approach is penny wise and pound foolish.

Gray, whose office is 20 feet from where the construction is set to begin, said he is concerned the 10th Court will never get back the space it has surrendered, despite the county labeling the renovation as temporary.

We have given up space in the past that the county had allocated to us and this will cause us a disruption, both in the temporary process of the construction, the ongoing operation of two trial courts on the floor that was not designed to accommodate that and then our growth planning for the future. The options have been severely limited, Gray said Wednesday.

According to plans approved by commissioners, the project includes demolition of the existing walls, the construction of two new offices plus two new restrooms, the installation of new flooring, complete painting of the space, lighting and electrical upgrades, a technology package and new furniture.

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Matter of Balance class forming

The Area Agency on Aging of the Heart of Texas will start a new fall prevention class, A Matter of Balance, on Thursday. The class will meet from 10 a.m. to noon for eight weeks at Emerald Cottages of Waco, 2412 Marketplace Drive. It is free. The program is available to people who have fallen or have a fear of falling. It emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls.

For more information, call 254-292-1857.

Faith Walk barbecue dinner

Faith Walk Church, 700 S. Robinson Drive, will have a barbecue chicken and sausage plate dinner from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Proceeds will go toward parking lot improvements at the church.

Plates cost $10. To pre-order, call 254-235-1595.

Prizes will be given away as part of a raffle.

La Vega vaccination clinic

La Vega ISD will have a COVID-19 vaccination clinic from 2 to 7 p.m. Monday at La Vega High School, 555 N. Loop 340.

The follow-up clinic for the second dose will be Aug. 9.

The free vaccination clinic is for La Vega ISD students and their families and the Bellmead community.
In the U.S., vaccination has been amazingly effective at protecting older, high-risk individuals, but our problem lies with the unvaccinated, especially young adults who may believe the pandemic is petering out. Adults ages 18 to 29 have the lowest vaccination rate of any age group in the U.S. Fortunately, younger adults who are infected have fewer hospitalizations and lower mortality rates, although the problem of long-haul COVID-19 residual symptoms remains a risk. There is also the danger of spreading the virus to other unvaccinated people or to immunocompromised patients who can remain susceptible despite vaccination.

If current trends continue, delta could soon become the dominant U.S. strain. Cases are already rising in parts of the U.S. where vaccination rates are low and the delta prevalence is high.

What can we do? There is no good option but to vaccinate as many as quickly as possible  ensuring vaccination of all those eligible in the U.S. and ultimately of the entire planets population.

Now we are faced with another nettlesome public health dilemma: whether to mandate vaccination of children for school attendance, as we do for other childhood vaccines.
Im old enough to remember when, along with lowering the debt and deficit, anti-protectionism and so-called family values, a strong opposition to population control was one of the bedrock principles of the conservative movement and Republican Party.

But apparently, like lowering the debt and deficit, anti-protectionism, and so-called family values, a strong opposition to population control has been another casualty of the Trump era, a faded memory of the right-wing populists who prefer owning the left over principles and policies.

How else to explain the utter weirdness that occurred on the right-wing, Trump-loving cable network Newsmax the other night?

Anchor Rob Schmitt, previously a host at Fox News, suggested that COVID-19 vaccines are generally kind of going against nature.

He added, Like, I mean, if there is some disease out there  maybe theres just an ebb and flow to life where somethings supposed to wipe out a certain amount of people, and thats just kind of the way evolution goes. Vaccines kind of stand in the way of that.
Mandate vaccine

Several of my friends report that people they know tested positive for COVID, even though they were fully vaccinated. I realize that reports like this constitute anecdotal data. However, COVID cases are up 97% in the last week. In addition, Texas is one of 34 states where COVID cases have risen over 50% in the last week and 45 states are moving in the wrong direction. What worries me is that in a little over a month students will return in-person to campuses where there are no mask or vaccination mandates. In view of this, I hope those who have not been vaccinated will care about others and get one, and those of us who are vaccinated will be vigilant, wearing masks and taking precautionary measures. Doesnt it seem a little silly and ridiculous that the University of Texas requires a meningitis vaccination, yet does not require one for COVID?
The story was COVID was so horrible. We all almost died, barely survived. But now theres hope and things are starting to turn around. I think they were honestly disappointed that our story didnt fit the narrative of the piece that was already written, Baker said. Our story was the opposite.

Bakers Candies thrived duringthe pandemic, Baker said, which may not have been the story GMA wanted to portray. The business was able to host a major sale in September 2020 not only celebrating the one year anniversary of their retail store, but also as a thank you to their customers who supported them throughout the pandemic.

Our fans have really lifted us up, Baker said last year.

Still, Baker recognizes that there were businesses that didnt thrive as much.

It (COVID) was so sinister because it picked winners and losers, Baker said. And we know that there were businesses that were devastated and we have a lot of businesses that weve been partners with for decades that didnt survive.

Not only did the chocolate factory not fit into GMAs narrative, but the spot also had some inaccuracies.
BEIJING (AP)  Chinas government rejected U.S. accusations of forced labor in Xinjiang and accused Washington on Thursday of hurting global trade after lawmakers endorsed import curbs and American companies were warned they face legal risks if they do business with the region.

The measures add to rising pressure on companies that buy clothing, cotton, tomatoes and other goods from Xinjiang, where the ruling Communist Party is accused of holding more than 1 million members of mostly Muslim ethnic groups in detention camps. Washington has blocked some imports, while Beijing has whipped up Chinese consumer anger at brands that express concern about possible forced labor.

The so-called human rights and forced labor issues in Xinjiang are completely inconsistent with the facts, said a Ministry of Commerce spokesman, Gao Feng.

The U.S. approach has seriously undermined the security and stability of the global industrial chain and supply chain, he said. China firmly opposes it.

Gao gave no indication of possible Chinese retaliation.
Biden administration has created a cross-government task force and instigated bounties to catch cyberterrorists.

In response to the growing ransomware threat and the aftermath of a series of high-profile breaches to U.S. infrastructure, the Biden administration is using a number of tactics, according to a senior administration official, including offering rewards of up to $10 million for information leading to the identity of the perpetrators.

Other options discussed include launching disruptive cyberattacks against hacker gangs and establishing partnerships with businesses to improve the speed with which information about ransomware outbreaks is disseminated among the different parties.

According to a report published on Wednesday by POLITICO, the White House has formed a cross-government task force to coordinate a range of defensive and offensive measures against ransomware, which has previously gone unnoticed.

Anne Neuberger, the administration's deputy national security adviser for cyber and emerging technology, provided senators with an early look at the administration's cyber and emerging technology strategy during a 35-minute briefing on Wednesday afternoon in the Senate chamber.

Members of Congress and experts have urged President Joe Biden to respond more forcefully to Russian President Vladimir Putin's inaction against ransomware operators, who have in recent months crippled much of the East Coast's gasoline supply, crippled a major meat processing company, and breached the IT software vendor Kaseya, among hundreds of other companies that are connected to the internet.

In the words of a Senate aide who asked to remain anonymous to speak candidly, federal agencies are taking actions under the supervision of the task force, including promoting digital resilience among critical infrastructure companies, working to halt ransom payments made through cryptocurrency platforms, and coordinating activities with United States ally countries.

In addition, a senior administration source said that the interagency group is "watching efforts weekly" to "implement the national counter-ransomware campaign." The White House receives frequent briefings on the actions of the agencies, according to the source.

The administration is also considering new cooperation with cyber insurance providers and critical infrastructure companies to enable businesses and the government to share information about ransomware attacks more quickly.

Congress is now debating a variety of potential options.

In the next week or next week, a bipartisan group of senators is expected to introduce legislation that would require a wide range of companies, including critical infrastructure operators, to inform the government when they have been hacked or otherwise compromised.

Legislation along these lines is now being developed by the House Homeland Security Committee.

Because of a paucity of information on private-sector breaches, the federal government argues that it is more difficult for them to protect the country against cyber threats.

During a briefing for senators on Wednesday, officials asked for more authority to establish minimum cyber standards for critical infrastructure. A second Senate employee also requested anonymity to disclose the private discussion.

According to Neuberger's first assistant, senators were also told that the White House will unveil three more measures in the coming days, which they would consider.

According to the Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, a new interagency website, stopransomware.gov, would be launched to collect defensive recommendations from various government agencies and organizations.

According to the organization, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) of the Treasury Department will hold a virtual conference on ransomware in August.

Aside from that, the State Department will use its "Rewards for Justice" program to provide cash incentives to anyone who gives information that leads to the arrest of ransomware operators.

On Tuesday, the REvil cybercriminal group disappeared without a trace, providing a bright spot in the anti-ransomware effort.

We don't know if the United States or Russia tampered with REvil's infrastructure or whether the criminals took the initiative and shut down their servers on their own, as other groups have done in the past in the wake of internal squabbles or increased official scrutiny.

In response to questions from reporters, the senior administration official declined to give any more information on the mystery.

"We have taken note of the disruption in REvil infrastructure," the official said, adding that "we have no more comment on it at this moment."
Republicans in the Senate have mostly remained quiet, even though the deal has received bipartisan backing.

On Tuesday night, Senate Democrats agreed on a $3.5 trillion budget plan that would expand Medicare, fund climate change initiatives, and fulfill other parts of President Joe Biden's economic agenda. The plan, which Democrats hope to pass on top of a bipartisan infrastructure bill, would also fund other parts of President Biden's economic agenda.

Following a long discussion with Democrats on the Senate Budget Committee, Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York said they had reached a bipartisan budget committee agreed on a budget reconciliation package that would finance what President Joe Biden has referred to as "human infrastructure."

Following the meeting, according to White House readout, Mr. Biden "thanked the Senate Democratic Caucus for the groundbreaking work they had done to reach the budget resolution agreement announced last night," and he also "touted the benefits of the historic bipartisan infrastructure framework that forms the other half of his domestic economic agenda.

Republicans in the Senate mostly remain silent on the $579 billion bipartisan infrastructure deal, which has garnered widespread bipartisan support.

Although the deal was negotiated by a small group of Senate Republicans, including Mitt Romney of Utah and Susan Collins of Maine, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has yet to express support for it publicly.

The Democrats are putting pressure on Republicans to finish the specifics this week, but Republicans believe an infrastructure plan won't be completed until the next week.

The framework is mainly concerned with tangible things such as roads and bridges. It also includes money for high-speed internet access, which is a key goal for both parties.

At this point, there doesn't seem to be much excitement among Republicans to support the deal, which may be due in part to the fact that negotiators are still working on converting the plan into real legislation.

The Democrats are putting pressure on Republicans to complete the specifics this week, but Republicans believe an infrastructure package won't be finished until the next week.

Even though just 11 Republican senators signed on to the bipartisan accord, the proposal would still pass the 60-vote barrier even if every Democratic senator voted in favor of it as well.

However, several Senators have indicated that they may withdraw their support in light of the fact that Democrats are set to pass a separate $3.5 trillion party-line plan via reconciliation in the coming weeks.

To achieve this legislative outcome, Democrats must unite in an equally split Senate against a unified Republican opposition - if they are to pass.

'This agreement is troubling to me,' said Sen. Jerry Moran of Kansas, a Republican sponsor who spoke out on Wednesday.

Others argue that the fate of the bipartisan agreement should not be linked to the success of the Democrat-only proposal.

Despite repeated assurances from House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the House will only adopt a bipartisan measure if the Senate passes a party-line infrastructure package.

The second Republican supporter, Sen. Lindsay Graham, told reporters on Wednesday that the two cases "cannot be linked at all."

Republicans have also begun to express dissatisfaction with the financing methods, making it more difficult for additional Republicans to accept a deal.

Since this bigger measure is unlikely to gain support from any Republicans, it will need support from all 50 Democrats, which means that it will need support from both ideological extremes of the Democratic Party.

The bipartisan agreement includes measures to repurpose coronavirus relief money and unspent federal jobless assistance. Still, some experts are dubious that the financing arrangements would be sufficient to cover the costs of the agreement.

A recently published blog article by Howard Gleckman, a tax specialist at the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center, referred to it as "pixie dust."

Given their aversion to increasing the national debt, the Republican Party is capitalizing on this.

In a Tuesday interview, Sen. John Cornyn of Texas said that Republicans want to "simply make sure that the pay-for are reasonable, that they are genuine, and that they are not illusory."

Sen. John Thune, the second-ranking Republican senator in the Senate, told reporters on Tuesday that a proposal that is fully funded would be "a precondition for a significant number of Republicans to support" it.

Thune said the next day that the $3.5 trillion spending agreement might "place downward pressure on Republican votes" in the coming weeks.

"I don't believe it is beneficial.

"We have people that are really interested in passing an infrastructure bill," he added.
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WATCH NOW: Hilarious, poignant 'Little Miss Sunshine' musical opens July 23 at Waterloo Community Playhouse

WCP PHOTO Unbeknownst to the family, Grandpa (Rick Johnson) has been teaching Olive (Sophie Lang) all the dance moves he knows -- mostly learned from watching strippers, in 'Little Miss Sunshine.' WCP PHOTO Olive Hoover (Sophie Lang) is tormented in her dreams by a trio of 'mean girls,' from left to right, Ashleigh Panning, Charlotte Malchek and Macie Graham in a scene from 'Little Miss Sunshine.' WCP PHOTO In a scene from the Waterloo Community Playhouse production of "Little Miss Sunshine," the Hoover family sets on a road trip to the Little Miss Sunshine beauty pageant, clockwise from left, Kim Camarata (Mom), Rick Johnson (Grandpa), Sophie Lang (Olive), Taylor Mast (Dwayne), Jens Petersen (Uncle Frank) and Neal Petersen (Dad). WCP PHOTO Richard (Neal Petersen) uses a pay phone in rural Arizona to reach his agent, while his teenage son Dwayne (Taylor Mast) contemplates his vow of silence in WCP's 'Little Miss Sunshine.' WCP PHOTO Miss California Sunshine (Christine Dornbush) sings her YouTube hit song "Dolor," to the delight of the pageant audience in a scene from the WCP musical, 'Little Miss Sunshine.' WCP PHOTO In this WCP 'Little Miss Sunshine' scene, Uncle Frank (Jens Petersen) runs into his old boyfriend Joshua Rose (Nate Smith), who is with his new boyfriend Larry Sugarman (Blake Drivinosky).

WATERLOO  Sophie Lang describes herself as a very calm, very chill kind of person.

The 14-year-old landed the lead role as Olive Hoover in the Waterloo Community Playhouse summer musical, Little Miss Sunshine, opening July 23.

And the character couldnt be more different than Lang.

Olive is really exuberant and up in everyones business all the time. She loves to dance. Shes fun to play, and its fun to be the star, said Lang, who has previously been cast in smaller roles. She starts at West High School this fall.

Little Miss Sunshine is a modern musical comedy adapted by James Lapine and William Finn from the Oscar-winning movie about a family trying to change their luck by chasing after Olives coveted beauty pageant title.

Its such a fun show and surprisingly poignant, said Artistic Director Greg Holt.

Like the film, the musical puts this dysfunctional family on the road in a rusted-out VW van making an 800-mile trek to California. The cast includes the beleaguered mom (Kim Camarata), a suicidal uncle (Jens Petersen), a silent and moody teenage boy (Taylor Mast), and dad (Neal Petersen), a failing motivational speaker, along with Olive and her grandpa (Rick Johnson), kicked out of his retirement home for using drugs, who decides to become Olives choreographer.

The family hits plenty of potholes along the road, Holt said. Some family situations come up that are universal and audiences can relate to and recognize.

The musical has some adult language and situations. Grandpa, for example, has choreographed Olives dance routine with some inappropriate moves to the song, Shake Your Badonkadonk. Unfortunately, he remembered the moves from strippers he saw years ago.

Thats been one of the biggest challenges for Lang. That kind of dance is something I would never normally do. Its one thing to learn the moves, and then think, oh, wait, I have to do this in front of people. The cast and crew think its hilarious, and the audience will love it.

Lang said shes having a grand old time getting to know the other cast members, as well. Holt spoke with Langs mom about the role so there were no surprises.

The music may be unfamiliar to audiences, but it is still memorable, Holt said.

Ive been hearing it over and over again, and Im still enjoying the heck out of it. Its actually exceedingly difficult music, a little discordant and tricky to sing and perform.

Songs include The Way of the World, No Mans Land, No One Gets Left Behind and Do You Think Theres a Heaven.

In addition to the six family members, there is a six-person chorus that fills a variety of roles.

A live band will be on stage throughout the show. Music directors are Luke Overton and JKalien Madison. Choreographer is Camille Malchek.

Set design by Keely Wright is representational with the use of multiple backdrops. Technical director is Scott Schuster and Dante Benjegerdes is lighting designer. Annette Rubin is costumer.

Everyone has come together and worked hard to form a strong ensemble cast and crew, and put together a great show, Holt added.

Photos: Waterhawks Ski Team performs July 9 Close

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DENVER  A Denver Community Schools student was expelled last month, but Superintendent Brad Laures wont say how long the expulsion will last.

When contacted shortly after the June 9 expulsion hearing, he refused to comment to The Courier about it, including what action was taken by the Board of Education following the 15-minute closed session. Laures said any information about the session would be made public with the release of the meetings minutes.

The minutes, posted on the districts website Wednesday, note that the board unanimously accepted the expulsion agreement and waiver of hearing with the addendum that the board could revisit and alter the conditions or length of expulsion. Laures declined to say how long the expulsion would last or explain any conditions for the student to return to school.

As the minutes state, there are conditions, he wrote in an email. I can not give you specific information on those conditions or other information related to this situation as these items are confidential and protected under state and federal law.

Laures pointed to the federal Family Educational and Privacy Rights Act, which prohibits the disclosure of educational records without parental consent.

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WATERLOO  A plan to add pickleball courts and more parking to a city park that will be constructed and paid for by a nearby long-term care facility is one step closer to approval.

The Waterloo Leisure Services Commission unanimously recommended a 75-year lease agreement with Friends of Faith Retirement Homes Inc., which operates Friendship Village at 660 Park Lane.

Friendship Village will pay the city $10 for the lease, which will run through Dec. 31, 2096. The City Council will vote Monday to set a public hearing on the matter for Aug. 2.

The long-term deal will allow Friendship Village to lease a 2.13-acre portion of next-door western Bontrager Park in order to manage its storm water detention, construct up to three pickleball courts and add a 100-stall parking lot, according to city documents.

The agreement specifies Friendship Village will keep the property open and available to the public except by advance approval of the leisure services director.

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We waited until he got back after the war to get married, and he hated to talk about it. We got married, and he opened a smoke shop in Cedar Falls, she recalls. He had a heart attack and died when he was just 62.

They had no children, but Margaret helped take care of numerous nieces and nephews and their children. She has traveled to England and Europe, including searching for her grandfathers grave in Denmark, as well as Australia and New Zealand.

At 80, Margaret returned to work at Southdale School. Im very proud about that. I went to school with the third-graders for two, three and four days a week to help the children who couldnt read very well. I did that until I was 90.

Thats when third-grade teacher Mary Ellen Maynard said she was going to retire, and I decided to retire again too. Kids would come up to tell me something exciting and I couldnt hear them very well, so it was time.

While she doesnt have an explanation for her longevity, she gives a nod to having regularly walked two miles. Ive done a lot of walking in my time. John and I used to hit the ditches for wild asparagus, bittersweet and mushrooms  he loved being outdoors and knew the names of all the birds and animals. After he passed, I still walked.
Residents were encouraged to take debris from damaged trees on private property to the city's yard waste facility at 2749 Independence Avenue from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week.

The NWS bureau in La Crosse, Wis., also sent survey teams Thursday to map and evaluate damage from a tornado that touched down near Charles City and a "possible tornado" near Oelwein.

A team determined the one tornado near Charles City was an EF0, and another was an Ef1.

Strong thunderstorms swept through early Wednesday evening and then later Wednesday night, with winds up to 50 miles per hour in some places and "pockets of heavy rainfall," the NWS La Crosse bureau said. Oelwein recorded 2.5 inches of rain overnight, while Charles City got nearly 2 inches.

Diane Wells of rural Greene saw significant tree damage, and a metal storage shed was destroyed, but her house was spared, save for two west-facing windows that were hit by a flying tree limb.

Facing what looks to be several thousand dollars in cleanup costs -- as most insurance policies offer little, if any, coverage for tree removal -- Wells said she plans to check with local organizations to see if there is any sort of public assistance available.
State Department spokesperson Ned Price said Wednesday that the Central Asian nations will make sovereign decisions about their level of the cooperation with the United States" after the Afghanistan withdrawal.

Its not only in our interests and, in fact, it is much more and certainly in the immediate interests of Afghanistans neighbors that Afghanistan be stable and secure, Price said.

The administration has given few details of what kind of security access it is seeking in the region, or from which countries. While the U.S. can manage strike and counterterror capability for Afghanistan from Gulf nations or from U.S. aircraft carriers, closer is much better. That's especially true for intelligence operations to track developments in Afghanistan.

Any such agreement would likely be discreet.

The U.S. also reportedly looked at neighboring countries for the temporary relocation of Afghan translators and other U.S. employees.

Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby confirmed this week that the United States still was actively courting countries in Central Asia. We are talking about and discussing with countries in the region about the possibilities of being able to use facilities and infrastructure" closer to Afghanistan, he said.
Senators support

During his weekly call with reporters, Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said it was up to Reynolds to make the decision she did.

I think the governor is in the right and helping the governor of Texas out because the federal government is not doing its job, he said. If it was doing its job, we wouldnt have anybody crossing the border.

Sen. Joni Ernst said during a separate teleconference that she believes Iowa taxpayers have a right to know what duties Iowa State Patrol troopers are performing in Texas, how much money is being spent and other details of the mission.

I believe transparency is always the best policy, and so I would love to know, of course, what our state troopers are doing, she said. I do support the governors efforts there. But since our taxpayer dollars are being spent on that, yes, we should have some accountability.

Ernst said one of the biggest concerns is that an uncontrolled border leads to human trafficking, gun trafficking, as well as, predominantly in Iowa, drug trafficking, especially methamphetamine.

Governors spending
Among its routes, ITA said it plans to operate flights to New York from Milan and Rome, and to Tokyo Boston and Miami from Rome. Destinations from Rome and Milans Linate airport will include Paris, London, Amsterdam, Brussels, Frankfurt and Geneva.

Italian news agency LaPresse, quoting a statement from ITA, reported that ITA's board on Thursday approved an industrial plan for the new company starting this year and running through 2025.

ITA, according to its statement, plans to operate a fleet of seven wide-body and 45 narrow-body aircraft at the start and to add 26 more planes later this year. By the end of 2025, ITA aims for a fleet of as many as 105 aircraft.

Alitalia currently has some 10,000 employees. The new company may take on some of the workers, who in recent years staged strikes to demand more attention to the airlines future. In recent months, they also faced uncertainty over getting paid on time.

ITA said it will start operating this year with some 2,750 to 2,950 employees in its aviation sector, raising the number to 5,550-5,700 by the end of 2025.

All the persons will be hired with a new work contract that assures greater competitiveness and flexibility compared to other operators in the sector, ITA noted.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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This seems like a suitable time for an update from our founder.

30 years in Hong Kong



30 years ago today, as a young banker, I moved to Hong Kong - one of my better decisions. Here I made my home, my fortune and my family, and hopefully gave something back to make HK a better place than it would have been - we each do what we can, and that's what makes a cosmopolitan city.

Sadly, I doubt that I would make the same decision if I were 25 today. HK may have better days ahead, but for now, increasing government economic intervention, a rollback of political rights and the red iron fist of authoritarianism are sucking the dynamism out of the city and making it a far less welcoming place, not just for international immigrants to HK, but for our brightest local minds planning their future and deciding whether it lies in HK.

Many of my predictions in "The most likely outcome for HK" (3-Sep-2019) have come to pass, thankfully without material bloodshed. The civil service, legislature and district councils have been, or are being, cleansed of pandemocrats in a kind of inverse McCarthyism. Pro-democracy media have either been shut or are self-censoring. In schools, the Liberal Studies curriculum has been replaced with "Citizenship and Social Development", and teachers are being watched more closely. In universities, Student Unions are being derecognised. The public broadcaster RTHK has been reined in (although I still appear on its air, while I can).

There's nothing we can do about the politics and authoritarianism until China itself is ready for change, but within the new framework, HK can move back towards free-market policies and away from central planning if its policy-makers so choose. There's no reason why an authoritarian Government can't overcome entrenched monopolies and remove legislative barriers to competition, for example. Indeed, with a compliant legislature it should be easier in some respects. Trying to nudge them in that direction is where I will focus my remaining quota of "public interest" time, health permitting.

On that subject, I won't be providing regular updates, but 13 months in, I've bought myself some time with life-extending drugs, managing the cancer to maintain a decent quality of life, punctuated every 4 weeks by a drug "depot" injection (jelly in my belly) and a couple of days of discomfort, watching more Netflix than I should. And pills, lots of expensive pills, which I am fortunate to afford. This combined androgen deprivation therapy, also known as chemical castration, deprives hormone-sensitive prostatic cancer cells of testosterone until they mutate to become "castration-resistant", hopefully not for another few years.

The therapy strains to convert men into boys, reversing puberty with interesting but minor side-effects. I am ever more youthful, the Benjamin Button of corporate governance. When the treatment fails, other weapons can be deployed, some of which are still in development. The longer I survive, the better the available treatments will be, so it's a race to stay ahead of the disease. Every month in which my PSA chart (and other key readings) remain flat and don't look like a stock bubble is a bonus.

Coming soon: the China Bubble

Speaking of bubbles, today is another beautiful but scorching day in HK - the air is clear, as is more often the case now, and we must give the Government some credit for curbing emissions - better late than never. Sadly, no visitors are allowed (even if vaccinated), and we are all trapped in the COVID-free SAR bubble, although the continuing emergency regulations would imply that COVID lurks around every corner - even if you're a vaccinated person lying on a beach, you risk a fine without a masked tan line.

Anyone who leaves the country must do hotel quarantine on return, even if they are fully vaccinated. HK residents cannot return from certain "A1" countries, including the UK, resulting in bizarre schemes like the "wash-out fare" now being advertised by Cathay Pacific which requires you to spend 4-6 weeks getting home and released from quarantine. It might be easier to charter a cruise ship and sail from Southampton. Many HK residents we know have simply given up trying to return this summer and are instead enjoying the parts of the world where COVID rules are being scrapped or relaxed, replaced with sensible guidance. That must account for at least part of the net outflow in our passenger data, along with the fairly obvious brain drain.

The HK and mainland Governments are inching towards opening the "boundary" with the mainland and Macao, at which point HK will become part of a one-Country "China bubble", isolated from the rest of the World until mainland authorities are ready to open up. We would guess 1-Oct-2021 (National Day) for the China Bubble to open, and 1-Jul-2022 for international visitors to China (including HK & Macao). We expect that the Beijing Winter Olympics, scheduled to start on 4-Feb-2022, will either be postponed or for teams-only, arriving into a strictly-quarantined bubble.

Catch me tomorrow morning on RTHK's Backchat for more on this subject.

David M Webb

Founder, Webb-site.com

 Webb-site.com, 2021

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Stigma is a barrier

What makes assistance and identification of those with suicidal ideation so hard? The stigma. Delgado knows four caregivers in her community alone who committed suicide. These aren't just hidden heroes, she says of the unsung dedicated caregivers, they are forgotten heroes. The stigma around thoughts of suicide makes it difficult for people to have the conversation and admit they need help,

Shaina Purser is a caregiver to an Army veteran of Afghanistan and Iraq and the mother of a special-needs child. She works within the nonprofit space providing education, encouragement and support to military and veteran families.

"Before I self-identified as a caregiver, I felt a great sense of failure in caring for my husband. I thought this was just my problem and that I was failing because I couldn't do it right, she says. When I made the decision to take my own life, I felt like I was at the edge of a cliff, trying to hold on. Despite this, Purser was expected to push through and endure, a hallmark of the military mindset. This only further compounded her feelings of failure and isolation.

"I tried to take my own life and I wasn't successful, Purser says. My shame was so profound that I couldn't imagine telling anyone about it. I hardly left the house and was in a very dark place. It was hard to imagine how my life could continue. I survived, but it felt like that was worse."

Her husband left the military and then her daughter was diagnosed with autism. In the process of reaching out to various organizations to advocate for them both, Purser began to meet other people like herself, share stories and call herself a caregiver, a job that had a title and a definition. She quickly realized that she was not alone. With this knowledge, she went on to earn a master's degree in social work at the University of Southern California, specializing in military social work. Utilizing her own experience as a military family member and caregiver, she has become a champion for raising awareness of issues affecting military families.

Her message to caregivers is simple: You are not alone. Accept help, reach out for help, and if help says no, don't take that for an answer. She also urges caregivers to advocate for themselves as much as they would for their family members, and to connect with other caregivers to understand that these experiences are common.

"You have a purpose and a story to tell, Purser says. You were not put on this earth to just care for your veteran. Your life matters just as much, and you have something to give to this world."

Honoring the military caregiver role

Melissa Comeau is a caregiver to a combat-wounded Marine. She is also an adviser for PsychArmor, a nonprofit that provides education programs for military service members, veterans and their families, and worked with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the insurance company USAA to develop the S.A.V.E. training program for military and veteran caregivers, which helps people take an active role in suicide prevention. (S.A.V.E. is an acronym for signs of suicide, asking about suicide, validating feelings, encouraging help and expediting treatment.) Comeau is working to change the stigmatized and negative language around suicide from phrases like failed suicide attempt or committed suicide to died by suicide.

"We hear a lot about the issue of veteran suicide, Comeau says, but we don't focus at all on the caregivers. This issue is so shameful within the caregiver community that it's hard to get people to open up. Just having these conversations can feel as if your loved one has become an overwhelming burden, that you would rather die than care for the one you love.

What's more, military caregivers have always been looked at as a solution, a safety net for the veteran, rather than being seen as people with their own issues. We can't sacrifice one population for another, Comeau says.

Add to that the COVID-19 pandemic, which further separated an already isolated population and took the lives of many veterans who were vulnerable through toxic exposure, among other medical issues.

"Most of us have been unable to grieve together, to attend funerals or process the trauma in all of this loss, Comeau says. This only adds to the sense of despair and anxiety.

As part of VA's S.A.V.E. program, Comeau narrated a training video to help people recognize the warning signs and offer assistance to caregivers who might be experiencing suicidal ideation. She also acts as a peer supporter for other caregivers.

"Those gentle nudges from a peer are super helpful, Comeau says. If another caregiver can share their experience and offer to get on the crisis line, it's much more powerful than a doctor or health care worker."

Some of the stories coming to light can help normalize these feelings and identify people who are struggling. There are women who describe no longer wearing a seat belt because they feel that it might be better for everyone if they died in a car accident. Others talk about holding the key to the gun safe so their veteran can't access it, but they worry that no one is holding it for them. Many fantasize about not being there, or just driving away.

Normalize the guilt and fear

Social media can also be a place for caregivers to convene, share and form community. Being able to chime in on Facebook to support a fellow caregiver can change the course of a bad day. The AARP Family Caregivers Discussion Group, for example, is an honest and supportive private forum where civilian and military caregivers buck one another up and share advice, best practices and motivational moments.

"The next step is to normalize the sense of guilt and fear around being a long-term caregiver, Delgado says. Once organizations are willing to talk openly about this, the caregivers will follow. They have to be brought into the conversation and be part of the solution to create a web of support and help."

"The VA is beginning to focus on this issue, and there are many promising telehealth possibilities for caregivers, Delgado says. This study is only a start, and we need to encourage more research and better evidence-based approaches to serve this important population.
En espanol | COVID-19 vaccination rates among U.S. nursing home workers continue to lag nationwide, with only 1 in 5 facilities hitting an industry target of getting 75 percent of their health care staff fully vaccinated, a new AARP analysis of government data shows. A handful of states have especially low vaccination rates among both staff and residents.

Nationally, 56 percent of nursing home workers are fully vaccinated. But in Louisiana, just 41 percent of workers are, representing the lowest staff vaccination rate of any state or territory, the analysis finds. In Florida, home to over 700 nursing homes, only 42 percent of workers are fully vaccinated.

Although a much higher share of nursing home residents are fully vaccinated nationwide  78 percent  some states are reporting much lower rates. In Arizona, just 63 percent of residents  fewer than 2 in 3  are fully vaccinated, the lowest of any state. In Florida, only 68 percent of residents are.

Low vaccine uptake among both staff and residents in nursing homes leaves residents highly vulnerable to a resurgence of the virus, experts say.

More than 650,000 nursing home residents have been infected with COVID-19 during the pandemic, and more than 130,000 have died from the virus. Nearly a third of the more than 600,000 U.S. COVID-19 deaths have been in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and other long-term care settings. The virus has disproportionately killed older Americans; more than 80 percent of victims have been 65 or older.

AARP's analysis, released Thursday, also shows that COVID-19 cases and deaths in nursing homes are continuing to decline to all-time lows. Yet the newly released vaccination rates  which the federal government only required nursing homes to publicly report starting in June  are a new cause for alarm, says AARP's Susan Reinhard, senior vice president and director of the AARP Public Policy Institute.

"They show we've not passed the threat of COVID to nursing home residents, she says. In some states, the situation is really, really serious  there are just not enough people vaccinated, particularly as this delta variant takes off.

Missing the target

Two of the country's largest nursing home trade groups, the American Health Care Association (AHCA) and LeadingAge, had set a target to vaccinate 75 percent of nursing home workers in every facility nationwide by the end of June. At the time, it was estimated that this rate among staff would provide facilities with a high degree of herd immunity.

Only 20 percent, or 1 in 5, of the nation's 15,000-plus nursing homes achieved the target as of June 20, according to AARP's analysis. Hawaii, which has hit the 75 percent staff vaccination goal in 86 percent of its facilities, reports the highest rate. California follows, with 66 percent of facilities hitting the target, then comes Vermont with 55 percent.

But in 46 states, less than half of nursing homes have reached the 75 percent staff vaccination threshold. In Kentucky, with the lowest count, only three percent of facilities have vaccinated 75 percent of staff. In Georgia, only 4 percent of facilities have hit the target, while only 5 percent did in Alabama, Florida and Idaho.

David Gifford, chief medical officer of the AHCA, which represents more than 14,000 nursing homes and other long-term care facilities across the country, has said the rates show more work needs to be done.

"Vaccination rates among long-term care staff continue to mirror other health care settings and general population rates, especially in certain parts of the country, because there continues to be a large amount of misinformation circulating around these safe and effective vaccines, Gifford said in a statement last month.
There is one exception: an outdoor sporting event where thousands of fans are seated close together and lots of shouting and cheering is taking place. Some stadiums have sections specifically for fully vaccinated fans. However, if you're in an area where you could be around unvaccinated people, you may want to bring your mask with you.

The same consideration should be given for a beach trip or other outdoor travel excursions. Spending time on the beach or hiking in the woods is a very low-risk activity. But there's the hotel, there's the restaurant, we go to playgrounds, we go to other things, particularly in indoor venues, Schaffner says. Plus, it's important to remember that masks are still required on planes, buses, trains and other forms of public transportation in the U.S.

Dining in restaurants is one activity many Americans are anxious to get back to. Wondering whether it's safe to do so, since you'll be without a mask for the majority of the meal? That's one scenario where your personal risk tolerance comes into play.

Schaffner and his wife recently dined indoors with a group of friends. That was a big move for us, he says, noting that he has yet to get on an airplane and still prefers virtual meetings to in-person conferences. However, everyone at his table was fully vaccinated and the servers wore masks. Some restaurants also present fewer risks than others, with lots of space and good ventilation. But if you're going to be packed in a bar and no one is wearing masks and it's really loud and people are shouting at one another and it's not very well ventilated, that is a very high-risk setting, says Wen, who adds that she will not go to indoor restaurants unless she's certain the people around her are fully vaccinated.

"Think about it this way: Risk is cumulative. So the chance of you going to a restaurant and acquiring coronavirus that one time, if you're vaccinated, is probably low. But if you're going to a crowded bar every night, especially in an area of high coronavirus transmission, at some point, the raincoat [or the protection provided by the vaccine] may not work and you could get infected, she says.

Heading back to the office soon? Many businesses are bringing employees back to the office after a year and a half at home. But few companies are requiring workers to be vaccinated.

Wen's advice? Ask your co-workers about their vaccination status. If they're fully vaccinated, I would have no limitations on interacting with them; I would have no limitations on being in a crowded conference room with people who are fully vaccinated without masks, she says, adding that being around other vaccinated individuals is a very safe situation. However, if these are people who are unvaccinated, then there is risk. And you should consider whether you can reduce that risk by not being in these settings.

If you are fully vaccinated and still decide to wear a mask at the office, there's no need for most people to go back to a snug-fitting N-95 mask or even a double mask for added safety measures. Those recommendations were really in the context of no vaccination, Gandhi says. Especially if you're in the office all day, make sure your mask is comfortable.

Visiting with young, unvaccinated grandkids is another scenario where individual preferences come into play. It's unlikely that vaccinated grandparents will infect little ones, but it's important to pay attention to how you feel, Gandhi says.

If you're coming down with any symptoms of illness, in this era of the delta variant, get tested first, she says. But if you feel well, you should feel very secure that you're not going to pass [COVID-19] on to an unvaccinated grandchild.

The risk is also low that unvaccinated kids will get their vaccinated grandparents sick, based on what we know about how well the vaccines protect against COVID-19. Still, if you want to be on the safer side  maybe your family members are less cautious in their day-to-day activities  there are ways to do so, Schaffner says.

Parents can tell their kids to hug grandma and grandpa around the waist when they greet them and wear masks during the visit. And that keeps the close contact with those little rascals who can bring the virus in from their playgrounds very brief, Schaffner says. And for overnight guests? Just be thoughtful about it and get a clear sense of what your own risk is, he adds.

Bottom line: Don't get rid of your mask just yet

Even if you chose not to wear your mask after getting the vaccine, don't toss it out just yet. It's unlikely the CDC will change its guidance once again, but you may want to put your mask back on during routine cold and flu seasons  especially now that they're more socially acceptable than they were before the pandemic.

"After all, we did learn that when we did the things to prevent COVID, we virtually eliminated influenza, another killer virus, Schaffner says. So I think there will be much more spontaneous acceptance of masking and other elements of social distancing during flu season.

And if you prefer to wear one in the meantime, don't make an opera out of it, he says. If you're a little bit concerned in certain circumstances, then you can wear your mask.
Pfizer and BioNTech submitted their vaccine to the FDA for full approval in early May, as did Moderna on June 1. Both companies requested priority review of their applications, which would mean a six-month timeline for the approval process, says Walter Orenstein, M.D., associate director of Emory Vaccine Center and professor of infectious diseases at Emory University School of Medicine. The standard approval process takes approximately 10 months.

Pfizer and BioNTechs request for priority review was granted by the FDA on July 16, and public health experts say they are confident that both the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines will receive full approval in the months to come.

What full approval may mean

If the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines receive full approval as expected, their manufacturers will be able to distribute and market their products for use in the populations for which they are approved even after the official public health emergency ends. Pfizer and BioNTech are seeking approval for their vaccine's use in people 16 and older; Moderna is seeking approval for those 18 and older.

Experts say full approval could also play a role in shaping vaccine mandates. Employers already can require that workers be vaccinated against COVID-19 (although exceptions apply and workers can seek exemptions on medical and religious grounds), but full FDA approval may prompt additional mandates from employers, schools and other institutions. The U.S. military, for one, has said that it will consider a vaccine mandate once the COVID-19 vaccines receive full approval.

Still, Schaffner says he doesn't expect an avalanche of mandates  and some institutions aren't waiting for full approval to put vaccine requirements in place. Many colleges and universities have already announced vaccination mandates for the coming school year, as have employers, particularly health care providers.

Impact on vaccine hesitancy

Some polling data suggests that full FDA approval may boost vaccination rates among those yet to receive a COVID-19 shot. According to a June survey from the Kaiser Family Foundation, 31 percent of unvaccinated adults said they would be more likely to get a vaccine if one of the vaccines currently authorized for emergency use received full FDA approval. But both Schaffner and Orenstein note that full agency approval is not likely to mitigate all the reasons for vaccine hesitancy, which include concern about side effects and lack of trust in the government.

Schaffner encourages older adults and anyone who is not yet vaccinated to speak to their health care provider about the vaccines and any concerns they have.

Orenstein points out that the full approval process itself should reassure people that the FDA is not forgoing preexisting standards or procedures when it comes to licensing the COVID-19 vaccines. The full approval process is a comprehensive one, he says. People need to feel  that it's not rushed.


Youanmi Project Update July 2021

Perth, July 15, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - West Australian focused gold exploration and development company, Rox Resources Limited ( ASX:RXL ), in conjunction with its joint venture partner Venus Metals Corporation Limited ( ASX:VMC ) is pleased to provide an update on activities at the Youanmi Gold Project, and in particular the high-grade, near surface Grace deposit, located within the OYG JV area (Rox 70% and Manager, VMC 30%).Aside from its significant investment in drilling the OYG JV has also been conducting a range of activities to evaluate early stage mining opportunities at the near surface, high-grade Grace deposit. This will feed into the broader Youanmi Feasibility Study that has been initiated following the significant resource upgrade for the Youanmi Project (ASX release 23 June 2021). To drive the Feasibility work programs Rox has recently appointed a highly experienced Mine Planning Engineer.Rox Managing Director Alex Passmore commented:"We are very pleased to provide this update on some of the many ancillary exploration and development activities that are happening at Youanmi and to report that the organisation is building out a highly capable team to deliver Feasibility studies on the restart of mining at Youanmi, and ultimately transitioning into development. The Grace orebody has been confirmed as shallow and free-digging in nature. These results support the concept that Grace will be an early contributor to production and cash flow upon the development of the Youanmi project."Understanding the Grace DepositThe Grace Deposit is one of several north-south trending lines of mineralisation that occur within accommodation structures within the Youanmi Granite that are related to geological displacement and emplacement of gold mineralisation at the Youanmi gold project.Gold mineralisation at Grace is hosted in quartz-sericite altered shear zones within granite. It is characterised by high grade, semi-continuous to discontinuous ore shoots.To better understand the controls on mineralisation and the style and continuity of structure the Company resolved to cut a "window" into the top of the mineralisation by removing the cap rock in the south end of Grace (with an approved POW for that purpose).Ditchwitch trenches have been cut to: (1) gain further knowledge from long face exposures and (2) yield samples for gravity test work and other grade estimation analysis. Free gold is readily panned from trenches where mineralised zones occur.Rox's strategy of continuing development of Grace is based on first understanding in detail the more densely drilled and now cut southern area near the Youanmi Main Pit, and applying the knowledge to the rest of the less densely drilled areas to the north (Figures 3 and 4*). Grace presents as an early opportunity for gold production within the overall development plan for Youanmi.Ripping TrialA Ripping Trial was conducted on Grace mineralisation and surrounding material to ascertain whether the material will be free dig or require blasting in an early mining scenario.The trial was conducted in the existing Youanmi Main Pit on the eastern ramp which is within the granites. The results show that Grace oxidised granites to a depth of 60 vertical metres below surface will not require drilling and blasting, which represents a significant cost saving with respect to any future Grace open pit mining costs.Figure 5* shows the area where the ripping trial was conducted which was very successful in that the Cat D10 machine was easily able to rip the in-situ material in the old ramp full depth in a single pass.This information will be applied to any study work on open pit mining in this specific area and geology (i.e Grace oxidised granite to 60 metres depth).Consultants and ContractorsAll dozer work was completed using a Caterpillar D10 Dozer supplied by Johnson Plant Hire Services out of Perth with all the tasks completed safely, on budget and on time.The "Ditchwitch" was provided by Beeline Services from Mt Magnet and owner Barry Wallace completed the task on site safely and efficiently.JT Metallurgical Service's Principal Brant Tapley is managing the Gemeni Table work for Rox and also advising Rox on gravity circuit configuration optimised for the Grace mineralisation.Ongoing Resource and Exploration DrillingAside from the above activities at Grace, drilling programs to drive resource growth are progressing very well with 4 drilling rigs on site at present (three diamond and one RC). An aircore rig is due to commence drilling regional targets shortly with further details on the regional exploration program to be released in due course.A highly experienced Principal Resource Geologist has recently been appointed to oversee the resource development programs.*To view tables and figures, please visit:About Venus Metals Corporation Limited

Venus Metals Corporation Limited (ASX:VMC) is a West Australian based Company with a focus on gold and base metals exploration. The Company aims to increase shareholder value through targeted exploration success on its projects.

The Company's major gold project is the Youanmi Gold Mine, located 500km north east of Perth. The Youanmi Gold Mine is now jointly owned by Venus Metals (30%) and Rox Resources Limited (70%) (OYG JV); Indicated and Inferred Resources of the mine is 1.7 million ounces of gold.

Exciting new discoveries at the Youanmi Gold Mine have been made at the Grace prospect in footwall granites where very high grades of free milling gold have been intersected, including 25m @34.7g/t Au from 143m (RXRC 287) and 13m @60.49 g/t from 181m (RXRC 239). The Grace Prospect may substantially add to the Youanmi Gold Mine resources.


Image: DroneGun MKIII(TM) evaluation by US Government customers

Sydney, July 15, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - DroneShield Ltd ( ASX:DRO ) ( OTCMKTS:DRSHF ) is pleased to announce it has received an initial order from a high-profile US critical infrastructure federal agency.The order is comprised of a portable drone defeat system.Oleg Vornik, DroneShield's CEO, commented, "US Government, through its various agencies, is the single largest counterdrone customer globally. Smaller orders such as this, are an important initial step-stone commitment, leading to larger acquisition programs following the evaluation process. We have now successfully been through this sequence with other Government customers, both in the US and globally.We are pleased to continue expanding the breadth of our U.S. Government customer base, now across several high profile Federal and State agencies.This is our first sale to a US critical infrastructure agency. Critical infrastructure faces a number of drone threats, across terrorism, illicit surveillance of the facilities, and others - with an inherent difficulty of discerning between different levels of threats.This initial deployment will serve as a reference case for expected follow-on sales with this and related customers."About DroneShield Ltd

DroneShield Ltd (ASX:DRO) (OTCMKTS:DRSHF) is an Australian publicly listed company with its head office in Sydney and teams in the US and UK. We specialise in RF sensing, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Sensor Fusion, Electronic Warfare, Rapid Prototyping and MIL-SPEC manufacturing.

Our capabilities are used to protect Military, Government, Law Enforcement, Critical Infrastructure, Commercial and VIPs throughout the world.

Through our team of primarily Australian based engineers - we offer customers bespoke solutions and off-the-shelf products designed to suit a variety of terrestrial, maritime or airborne platforms.

DroneShield is proudly exporting Australian capability to customers throughout the world and supporting Australia's defence, national security and other organisations protect people, critical infrastructure and vital assets.

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Operations Update

Sydney, July 15, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - PYX Resources Ltd ( NSX:PYX ) has performed strongly in the first half of the year due to a boost in premium zircon production, sales volume growth, and ongoing price increases. During H1 2021, the Company raised its premium zircon selling price three times, resulting in a US$355 per tonne price increase during the first six months of the year.The price increases reflect the general lack of premium zircon supply globally due to continued supply issues in South Africa and low inventory levels in China, while reduced Australian sales of Heavy Mineral Concentrate (HMC) to China have created a further void of premium zircon in the market, leading to higher customer demand and, consequently, higher market prices. Indonesian zircon prices have now reached their highest price point since 2013.Oliver Hasler, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, commented: "I am delighted with our achievements during the first half of 2021. The mineral sands industry is currently experiencing a strong upcycle, and market conditions are now ideal for the implementation of the Company's growth strategy. This comprises developing our newly acquired Tisma deposit so that production can get underway soon. As the world strives to resolve the climate crisis, it is becoming more apparent that electric vehicles and renewable energy will rely on increased supplies of metals like zircon."In H1 2021, PYX sold 3,250 tonnes and produced 3,501 tonnes of premium zircon, resulting in a year-on-year production increase of 25%. Sales volume has shown a strong year-on-year growth of 14%, while maintaining a tight finished goods inventory. Customer demand continues to increase and show particular interest in PYX's zircon due to its low aluminium oxide (AI2O3) of under 0.2%. In addition, the uranium + thorium content of PYX's zircon is less than 450ppm, making it ideal for producing fused zirconia, the unique end product, which can be used for a wide range of applications due to its very high melting point, chemical stability at high temperature, hardness, corrosion resistance and high refractive index.In February 2021, the Company completed the acquisition of Tisma in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia, converting PYX into the second largest producing mineral sands company globally in terms of JORC-compliant zircon resources. This acquisition was an excellent strategic addition to PYX's resource base and a milestone in the consolidation of the Indonesian mineral sands mining business, and was highly accretive for the Company. Planned capacity increases will enable the Company to meet further global demand, increase margins, and grow market share.To this purpose, in June 2021, the Company completed a US$8.4m placement to fund a capital expenditure and working capital programme at Tisma to ramp-up production of 65.5 grade premium zircon.In March 2021, the Company announced that it had entered into a 3,600 tonnes two-year binding Offtake Agreement with India-incorporated Microtech Zircon, a member of Delta Tiles, a group of companies which fall under the brand name Geo Gres.On 25 May 2021, the Company announced that it would start to explore a dual listing of PYX's ordinary shares on the Standard Segment of the London Stock Exchange; this process continues and the Company looks forward to updating shareholders in due course.Notably, the Company continues to be very successful in managing work-related accidents, with zero lost-time injuries in addition to having no reported COVID-19 incidents.About Pyx Resources Limited

PYX Resources Limited (NSX:PYX) is a global producer of premium zircon listed on the National Stock Exchange of Australia. The Company's flagship asset is the Mandiri mineral sands deposit, located in the alluvium sediment rich region of Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. Boasting the world's 5th largest producing deposit of zircon, PYX is a large-scale, near-surface open pit operation in production since 2015 and with exploration to date validating the presence of additional Valuable Heavy Minerals such as rutile, ilmenite among others within its mineral sands.


Noosa Mining & Exploration Investor Conference Presentation

Perth, July 15, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Musgrave Minerals Ltd ( ASX:MGV ) ( FRA:6MU ) ( OTCMKTS:MGVMF ) provide the Investor Conference Presentation for the Noosa Mining and Exploration Conference.Musgrave's 2021 objectives are to target Major High-Grade Systems and Near-Term Production.Musgrave's Total Mineral Resource is 6.4mt @ 3.2g/t Au for 659koz Au with an opportunity for further discoveries through successful regional drilling programs ( e.g. Big Sky).The company remains well funded within a strong $AUD gold price environment.To view the presentation, please visit:About Musgrave Minerals Ltd

Musgrave Minerals Ltd (ASX:MGV) is an active Australian gold and base metals explorer. The Cue Project in the Murchison region of Western Australia is an advanced gold and copper project. Musgrave has had significant exploration success at Cue with the ongoing focus on increasing the gold and copper resources through discovery and extensional drilling to underpin studies that will demonstrate a viable path to development in the near term. Musgrave also holds a large exploration tenement package in the Ni-Cu-Co prospective Musgrave Province in South Australia.
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Malibu, CA, July 15, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - In this segment of The Ellis Martin Report with speak with Jonathan Wiesblatt, the CEO of Rockridge Resources ( CVE:ROCK ) ( OTCMKTS:RRRLF ). Rockridge has intersected additional Copper Mineralization and Plans Upcoming Summer Exploration Program at the Knife Lake Copper Project, Saskatchewan. Listen to the update and interview as the company steps out to discover more copper.To listen to the Interview, please visit:To view the announcement, please visit:About Rockridge Resources Ltd

Rockridge Resources (CVE:ROCK) is a publicly traded mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral resource properties in Canada and other mining-friendly jurisdictions. The Company's Raney Gold Project is a high-grade gold exploration project located in the same greenstone belt that hosts the world-class Timmins and Kirkland Lake lode gold mining camps. The Company's Knife Lake Project is in Saskatchewan, which is ranked as the #3 mining jurisdiction in the world by the Fraser Institute. The project hosts the Knife Lake deposit, which is a VMS, near-surface copper-cobalt-gold-silver-zinc deposit open along strike and at depth. Rockridge's goal is to maximize shareholder value through new mineral discoveries, committed long-term partnerships, and the advancement of exploration projects in geopolitically favourable jurisdictions.
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Aaron Tveit knows the hard work it takes to get on stage and make a performance.

Hes done it on Broadway since his debut in 2006.

Yet, the Tony Award nominee found himself in uncharted territory when he joined the cast for Schmigadoon!

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The six-part series is a parody of iconic musicals that stars Cecily Strong and Keegan-Michael Key as a couple on a backpacking trip designed to reinvigorate their relationship when they discover a magical town in which everyone is living in a studio musical from the 1940s. They then discover that they cant leave until they find true love.

The cast also includes Jaime Camil, Fred Armisen, Kristin Chenoweth, Dove Cameron, Ariana DeBose, Jane Krakowski, Alan Cumming and Ann Harada. The six-episode series premieres on Friday, July 16, on Apple TV+.

We were all together, I think to do the finale, but we had a day before that we were in preproduction where the whole cast got together, he says. We read through the entire six episodes in an afternoon. That was spectacular because without that you wouldnt have gotten to even see what other people were doing. The fact that we had that experience together really set the bar high. I left there thinking, Oh wow, I thought I was prepared. But I need to be matched to the level that everyone is bringing to this.'

In the series, Tveit plays Danny Bailey, who is the town outcast. He works for the carnival and keeps to himself much of the time until he meets Strongs character, Melissa.

The series pays homage to legendary musicals such as Carousel, which Tveit is a fan.

I get to live out all of my Carousel Billy Bigelow dreams as Danny Bailey, he says. There are all these influences. This is a character that Ive always wanted to play, so it was a big thrill for me.

The challenge for Tveit was the dancing needed for the role. The series was choreographed by Christopher Gattelli.

He spent a lot of time with me one on one, he says. He really had specific references to this Gene Kelly-type song and dance man. He wanted Danny to kind of embody him. Danny is a rough and tumble guy, but then, can break into song and dance, which I think is also interesting. The dance element was the one thing that I found myself really drilling and practicing. I wanted to make sure that I was totally ready for that when I stepped foot on set. Worrying about the steps helped me not worry too much about the singing.

Tveit has been performing all his life on stage and screen. He appeared in Moulin Rouge! and is the only actor nominated for a Tony Award for best actor this year.

With Schmigadoon!, he hopes that viewers will enjoy the feel and tone of the show.

With in-person performances not happening for more than a year, he hopes there is joy to be found within the series.

Its about celebrating life, he says. After the difficult 15 months or so that weve had, I hope that the joy comes through that we had making it. I hope it travels across the screen into peoples living rooms.

Tveit says there is also some real messaging from all of the characters.

There are these very one-dimensional kind of old musical theater tropes, he says. But they are changed by these two contemporary people that they meet and change for the better. The show has representation and inclusion.

Tveit is no stranger to New Mexico as he has toured here with Broadway shows and filmed the movie Big Sky in the area in 2015.

I love New Mexico and hope to make it back there one day, he says.

NOW STREAMING

Aaron Tveit is one of the many stars in Schmigadoon!, which premieres on Friday, July 16, on Apple TV+.
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Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

SANTA FE  More than 96% of New Mexicos new COVID-19 cases since February have occurred in individuals that have not been fully vaccinated, top state health officials said Wednesday.

Human Services Secretary David Scrase also said during a briefing with reporters that an even larger share of recent deaths related to the virus  more than 98% over the last five months  were unvaccinated individuals.

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While there have not been an insignificant number of breakthrough cases reported, or confirmed infections among vaccinated New Mexicans, Scrase said the states elevated vaccine administration rate is generally keeping COVID-19 spread at a manageable level.

Were in a good spot in New Mexico because of all the vaccinations weve done, Scrase said.

A total of 71.8% of New Mexicans age 18 and older had received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine as of Wednesday, while 63.7% of adults had gotten all necessary shots, according to state Department of Health data.

The rise in vaccination rates in recent months has coincided with a drop in new cases, hospitalizations and deaths in New Mexico. But the virus is still spreading and three additional deaths were reported Thursday, bringing the states death toll to 4,362 individuals since the pandemic hit in March 2020.

Meanwhile, the Delta variant of COVID-19 that originated in India has caused a spike of new cases and hospitalizations in several states in recent weeks, including Missouri and Arkansas.

The variant has also been on the rise in New Mexico, albeit at lower rates than in other states, as it made up about 3% of all new cases statewide several weeks ago and now makes up about 14% of new cases, Scrase said.

He said he expects the Delta variant to spread more in the coming months, particularly among unvaccinated individuals, since it is a more contagious strain of COVID-19.

I think we have to stay vigilant, stay on our toes, and really look toward any new emerging trends that could affect the health of New Mexicans, Scrase said.

With a new school year set to start in New Mexico next month, Scrase and Health Secretary Tracie Collins also said its likely the state will continue to require face masks in schools for students and teachers who are not vaccinated.

While a final decision has not been announced, Collins said the state was following guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines on the issue.

She also said more information about federal approval for the vaccine to be administered to children younger than age 12 could be available this fall. Currently, only individuals 12 and older are eligible to get the shot.

The Wednesday briefing came a day after U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy lauded New Mexicos vaccine administration efforts during a visit to the state.

But Murthy cautioned theres still work to be done, saying two-thirds of those who are unvaccinated believe myths about the COVID-19 vaccine, such as fears it can lead to infertility, cause mutations in peoples DNA or even infect individuals with the virus.

Were seeing the scale and speed of misinformation spread really increase, in part aided and abetted by technology platforms, Murthy told the Journal.
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Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

Eric Allen, a sergeant who was fired from the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Detention Center, charged with beating an inmate, and whose conduct led to the settlement of three lawsuits, was found dead along with his wife by the side of a highway in southwest Colorado late last month.

Montezuma County Sheriff Steve Nowlin said that, on June 30, deputies were called to the side of the well-traveled U.S. 160, near the county line, for reports of a blue Ford Expedition that had been sitting there for several days. When they arrived, they found Eric Allen and his wife, Yong Allen, both 56, dead.

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Nowlin said Eric Allen had been shot in the head and deputies found a handgun in the car. He said it was very possible that the wound was self-inflicted, but that detectives are still investigating.

Yong Allen had no signs of trauma and investigators are waiting for a forensic evidence examination to determine how she died, Nowlin said.

The mystery is how did she die, Nowlin said. We found a lot of other information I cant reveal yet that probably makes sense of how this all came about.

Nowlin said it appeared as though the couple  who lived in Roswell  had been traveling for months and deputies are still trying to trace their steps.

Eric Allen, the one-time vice president of the correctional officer union, had been with the jail since 2003 and was fired in 2018. He joined other former employees in a whistleblower lawsuit against the county, alleging he was charged with a crime and wrongfully terminated for his union advocacy. That suit is pending and a settlement conference was set for December 2021.

Allen frequently made headlines after three inmates alleged that he used excessive force or directed excessive force to be used on them in the fall of 2015. Video footage showed that one was shocked with a stun gun and then Allen told guards to twist her wrist until she shuts up and stops crying. Allen used a knee strike and pressure point compliance techniques on another and slammed his face into a cabinet, according to court documents. And a third said Allen used a Taser and mace on him after he requested his antidepressants and a breathing medication.

All three inmates sued Bernalillo County in separate suits. Their lawsuits settled for $1.1 million in December 2017. That same month Allen was indicted on charges of aggravated battery with great bodily harm. However, a jury acquitted him in 2018.
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Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

The 2021 Albuquerque mayoral race is taking a day trip through the citys administrative hearing process due to a battle over public financing.

Bernalillo County Sheriff Manuel Gonzales mayoral campaign has appealed City Clerk Ethan Watsons decision to deny Gonzales taxpayer funding for his campaign.

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A hearing on the appeal is scheduled for 10 a.m. Thursday via Zoom video conference. A link is available at cabq.gov/clerk/news.

Whats at stake with this appeal?

About $600,000.

Publicly financed mayoral candidates can collect a limited amount of private money to launch their campaigns but commit to an overall spending limit of $661,309  most of which comes from a taxpayer-supported city fund. Gonzales would have received $603,739 if certified.

Watson already has certified Mayor Tim Keller  the incumbent seeking reelection  for the financing and disbursed the money.

Should Watsons decision not to certify Gonzales hold up, the sheriff could continue running by changing to private funding.

Political analyst Brian Sanderoff, president of Research & Polling Inc., said theres a limited amount of money flowing into local elections like a mayors race. Right now, it can go into political action committees supporting the candidates. There is currently a PAC fundraising in support of Gonzales and one doing the same for Kellers candidacy.

If Watsons decision is upheld, and Gonzales must turn to private funding, his campaign would likely draw money away from what the PAC might have raised, Sanderoff said, never making up for what was lost in public financing.

Thats money that cant be replaced, he said.

How did we get here?

Watson last week notified Gonzales he was denying the sheriffs public financing application, citing concerns about possible fraud during the qualification process. At issue are the $5 qualifying contributions mayoral candidates must collect from individual voters to prove they have sufficient community support. The clerks office had verified more than 4,100 such contributions for Keller and for Gonzales. Each only needed 3,779 to qualify. However, Kellers campaign has filed two ethics complaints against Gonzales alleging fraud. In the first, a voter provided a signed statement saying that Gonzales personally told the voter he did not need to give $5 and that Gonzales campaign would cover the contribution. The second alleges that Gonzales campaign forged voter signatures on nearly 150 of the $5 contribution receipts submitted to the Clerks Office. Kellers team has provided signed statements from about 40 voters asserting the signatures on the Gonzales documentation are illegitimate.

How did Watson justify his decision?

The City Clerk is responsible for certifying public financing applicants, which includes determining if they have met requirements of the citys Open and Ethical Elections Code and complied with related rules the Clerk established.

The Clerks 2021 rules say he shall not certify candidates for certain reasons. That includes if the Clerk determined the candidate has been found to have submitted any fraudulent Qualifying Contributions or any failed acknowledgment forms for Qualifying Contributions  where the Applicant Candidate knew or should have known of the fraudulence or falsification or if he determines the candidate has been found to have made a materially false statement in a report or other document submitted to the City Clerk.

Watson said he could not certify Gonzales had complied with those rules and parts of the code, citing documents presented with the ethics complaints.

What is the basis of the appeal?

Gonzales campaign is making several arguments, including that Watson is not a neutral decision-maker due to his appointed city position and that it has not been proven to any standard of proof that the questioned Gonzales contributions are fraudulent. But in a separate filing in one of the ethics cases, the Gonzales campaign acknowledged there were problems with some of the signatures submitted. The appeal also contends that Gonzales submitted more than enough contributions to qualify for public financing even if those being challenged were removed.

Is Watson a Keller appointee?

Yes. However, the City Clerk is among the few appointed jobs in city government that also require the City Councils consent. The City Council in March 2020 confirmed Watsons appointment on a 9-0 vote.

Other appointed jobs that require City Council consent are chief administrative officer, deputy administrative officer, police chief, fire chief and city attorney.

Who is conducting the hearing on Gonzales appeal?

Thursdays hearing is with hearing officer Ripley Harwood, a local attorney with more than 30 years of legal practice. Harwood is under contract to serve the citys Office of Administrative Hearings, which handles a range of administrative hearings, from personnel matters to appeals related to the citys body art ordinance.

What happens during and after the hearing?

Gonzales has the burden of providing evidence to demonstrate that the Clerks decision was improper, according to the City Charter. The hearing officer must rule within three days of the hearing. The parties  Gonzales and the City Clerk  have the right to appeal the hearing officers decision to State District Court.

What does all this mean for the election ballot?

Nothing. Qualifying for public financing and qualifying for the ballot are separate processes overseen by different entities. Bernalillo County Clerk Linda Stover last month certified that both Gonzales and Keller qualified to be on the Nov. 2 ballot, having each surpassed the requirement of obtaining 3,000 petition signatures.

What is happening with the pending ethics complaints against Gonzales?

The citys Board of Ethics & Campaign Practices is still set to hold hearings on both ethics complaints against Gonzales campaign  the first on Friday and the second on July 22. If the board decides Gonzales violated city code or regulations, it can impose a fine, issue a written finding of censure and refer applicable matters to state authorities.
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Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

SANTA FE  New Mexico launched a plan last year to offer scaled-down support services to thousands of families who have been waiting years for more comprehensive help under a developmental disabilities program.

But it didnt have the immediate impact officials had hoped.

Fewer than 100 individuals are now receiving the support services  out of about 2,000 invited to apply for the program. Another 180 are in the eligibility process to qualify.

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The state Department of Health is now examining how to persuade more people to participate and acknowledging that enrolling 2,000 new participants was too aggressive an early target.

Some families, health officials said, are already receiving services through Medicaid or other programs and may not want the supports program.

But, for many families, officials said, the new program can offer services they arent getting otherwise or not getting enough of  such as widened doors to accommodate wheelchairs, respite care so parents can take a break, and other help.

Weve got a lot of work to do so people understand what a value this is to their family, said Jason Cornwell, director of the Developmental Disabilities Supports Division of the Department of Health.

He acknowledged the participation level wasnt what the agency had been shooting for and said the department is examining how to better reach families.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and state legislators authorized about $7 million last year to fund the program.

Its part of state efforts to provide help to the roughly 4,000 families on the waiting list for more comprehensive services through the Developmental Disabilities Waiver program.

Some families have been waiting 13 years for their turn to receive the services. Its called a waiver program because the federal government has waived the requirement to use a nursing home or similar setting to provide services.

Terribly disappointed

The new supports waiver, as its called, was intended to expand services available to families on the waiting list.

State Sen. Gerald Ortiz y Pino, D-Albuquerque, said the launch of the program hit some snags, including a lengthy application process that dampened participation.

He said he was terribly disappointed in the number of people enrolled so far.

I think its a classic example of how a bureaucracy really has a hard time picking up on something new, Ortiz y Pino said in an interview Wednesday.

Rep. Elizabeth Thomson, D-Albuquerque, said she is hopeful the program will gather momentum. The state absolutely has to better serve people on the waiting list, she said.

I know the departments really want to do this well, Thomson said, and they really want to get people with disabilities the help they need.

Tim Gardner, legal director at the nonprofit group Disability Rights New Mexico, said the idea of getting 2,000 people to participate right away was never realistic.

Some families, even as theyre on the waiting list, are able to get services through Medicaid or schools, making the supports program unnecessary or less urgent.

But Gardner said enrolling fewer than 100 families is disappointing.

A letter from the state, he said, may not be a good way to reach and convince some people to participate. Others may have a history of disappointment in their interactions with state agencies, he said.

Theres a natural distrust certain people have, Gardner said.

But he said the new supports waiver is a good option for many people on the waiting list.

Its a limited program, he said, but its a good program.

We can really, really help

Cornwell said the launch of the program faced unexpected challenges. It was started in July last year amid the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, when families may have been especially reluctant to venture out for doctor visits or other steps needed to qualify for the program.

The Department of Health has also run into skepticism, Cornwell said, from families who fear theyll lose their spot on the waiting list if they accept the support services.

The state, he said, is working to assure people they will keep their place in line and show them that  for many families  the supports program will offer more comprehensive services than they can get now.

This is not a bait and switch, Cornwell said.

The services available under the supports waiver, he said, were crafted in response to surveys asking families on the waiting list what they needed.

The program can pay for respite care, day programs and environmental modifications, such as widened doorways.

Cornwell encouraged any family who received a letter about the program to email him  jason.cornwell@state.nm.us>href=http://jason.cor>jason.cornwell@state.nm.us  or call the number on the letter.

This is an opportunity to really improve the quality of life for their loved one and their family, he said. They should pick up the phone.

We can help. We can really, really help.
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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.  Sen. Ben Ray Lujan said one of his plans to address human migration in the Americas is to continue the work started by a border-security bill signed by former President Donald Trump in his final days in office.

The New Mexico Democrat was part of a bipartisan team of senators who traveled to Mexico, Ecuador, Colombia and Guatemala last week. The delegation talked about the root causes of migration, COVID-19 and other matters with presidents, government officials and other leaders in the countries.

In an interview about the trip, Lujan said he supports improving technology to screen vehicles traveling across the U.S. border, and perhaps eventually expanding the technology to Latin American countries.

From a national security perspective, one of the issues that I raised with each of the four presidents  was the importance of border security, he said. And what Ive been advocating is getting to 100% screening of passenger vehicles and commercial cargo containers coming into the United States. And then also for us to be screening all vehicles and cargo containers leaving the United States.

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Lujan said hes paying close attention to a law sponsored by former New Mexico Rep. Xochitl Torres Small that Trump signed in January. The law calls for the Department of Homeland Security to make a report outlining the cost and effect of using high-tech screening technology to scrutinize all vehicles and containers flowing through the border, which would mark a significant change to how many vehicles are currently examined by border officials. Lujan said hes waiting for the report to come out and hopes it will lead to increased screening.

Another key way to affect human migration is to support economic development in Latin America.

To that end, Lujan said another strategy discussed on the trip is how best to promote nearshoring, as opposed to offshoring, manufacturing. Nearshoring, Lujan said, is to outsource manufacturing work to nearby Latin America countries as opposed to cheaper alternatives in Asian countries. Lujan said the offshoring method created supply chain problems during the pandemic.

If you open up more economic opportunities to do business, from states like New Mexico, with other Latin American countries, it helps us create jobs back home, helps you create jobs (in Latin America), and helps you create safer areas in the Americas, he said.

WHITE HOUSE HIGHLIGHTS ABQ: The White House on Monday issued a memo to cities across the country urging them to use their American Rescue Plan relief money on crime-prevention matters, and Albuquerque was used as an example in the memo of a city using federal relief money for those purposes.

We know that the rise in violent crime over the last 18 months is a complex and multi-dimensional challenge for communities around the country, and that it requires a comprehensive response, wrote White House officials Susan Rice, Gene Sperling and Julie Rodriguez. And we know that cities and states need a strong partner in the federal government to get that done.

They cited nine cities, including Albuquerque, Tuscon and Cincinnati, as cities that used COVID relief money to address crime, which is rising in many metropolitan areas around the country.

Albuquerque was singled out for investing $3 million to expand a gunshot detection system, $5 million to refurbish station houses, $1 million for new cars and $450,000 to recruit more officers.

Ryan Boetel: rboetel@abqjournal.com
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Rep. Marian Matthews, D-Albuquerque, was asking the right question of Brian Blalock, secretary of New Mexicos Children, Youth and Families Department.

Referring to the death of 4-year-old James Dunklee Cruz of Albuquerque, allegedly beaten to death by a friend of his mother despite repeated referrals and warning signs to CYFD he shouldnt be in his mothers care, Matthews wanted to know: How does that happen?

Blalock, predictably, said he couldnt answer because to do so would be contrary to confidentiality laws to speak about a specific case. But since James was killed and his estate and child advocates have filed a lawsuit against the state, here is the next question: Who are these confidentiality laws protecting?

There was one positive takeaway from the five-hour legislative hearing by the House Health and Human Services Committee. Blalock, a lawyer who has led CYFD since he was brought here by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham when she took office in January 2019, said the agency is working on a new transparency policy that will allow it to be more forthcoming with the public while maintaining compliance with confidentiality laws.

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Under New Mexico state law, he said, we could be doing a much better job of being transparent when child abuse fatalities occur.

While Blalock is to be commended for working on a transparency policy, this begs the question as to why the agency has stonewalled on these cases when even the head of the agency admits state law allows more disclosure.

Meanwhile, controversy continues to swirl around the agency.

Fired whistleblowers have filed complaints with the attorney general and state auditor alleging impropriety in a sole-source software system acquisition  an allegation rejected by the agency, which says the whistleblowers have no credibility.

And three civil actions have been filed in a case in which CYFD returned children to the custody of parents in Hobbs. They had been removed from parental custody after police were called to a Walmart parking lot where the couple panhandled in 90-degree weather with their four young children. Three appeared dirty, red in the face from the heat and wore no shoes. The baby had severe diaper rash and sat wrapped in a blanket in a car seat. Criminal child abuse charges were filed against the parents, and the children were placed in foster care in 2019. CYFD returned them to the parents on a trial basis, and within weeks the parents had skipped town with them. The baby ultimately was dumped at a North Carolina hospital after suffering a brain injury that left her permanently blind.

The complaints against CYFD in that case were brought by two whistleblower caseworkers, two guardians ad litem, both attorneys representing the children and a former foster mother who filed a counterclaim against CYFD after her foster parent license was revoked over postings she made on social media expressing concern for the children.

As for transparency, heres an except from a court document filed in the caseworker whistleblower case. CYFDs efforts to conceal its misconduct went into overdrive in November of this year when the youngest of the children was abandoned by her mother at a hospital.  Those efforts have included lying to the press and ordering its employees to stonewall the Fifth Judicial District Attorneys investigation.

Yes, Blalocks commitment to a new transparency policy is welcome. So are the questions from Rep. Matthews.

CYFDs job is to keep children safe, so if they cant figure out a way to prevent these mistakes that are sometimes fatal, they need to revamp their system, said Albuquerque attorney Sara Crecca, who filed the wrongful death lawsuit in the Dunklee Cruz case. Thats their single job.

And without answers to questions like the ones posed by Matthews, New Mexicans have no way of knowing how well the agency is doing with this difficult task. Thats important, because its the children who pay for the mistakes. Sometimes with their lives.

This editorial first appeared in the Albuquerque Journal. It was written by members of the editorial board and is unsigned as it represents the opinion of the newspaper rather than the writers.
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BIRMINGHAM, Ala.  A fund formed in response to the deadly racial violence four years ago in Charlottesville, Virginia, said Thursday it will award $3 million in grants to more than three dozen groups and sites nationwide to help preserve landmarks linked to Black history.

Recipients of money from the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund include a consortium of civil rights sites and Black churches in Alabama; work to establish an African American heritage trail in Colorado; and preservation of the church where Emmett Tills funeral was held in Chicago after his lynching in Mississippi in 1955.

Other grants announced Thursday include money to hire a director for Save Harlem Now!, a historic preservation effort in New York; repairs to the African American Museum and Library in Oakland, California; and research on enslaved people at Hacienda La Esperanza in Puerto Rico.

Grants ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 will go to recipients that represent centuries of Black experience and help tell the full story of U.S. history, said Brent Leggs, executive director of the fund. The nation should value the link between architecture and racial justice, Leggs said.

I think it is critically important to acknowledge that the nation may be rich in diverse history but it has often done a poor job in representing that history, he said.

Grants are going to projects in 17 states plus Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia.

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The Action Fund was established by the National Trust for Historic Preservation after clashes during the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville in 2017 ended with the death of Heather Heyer, a civil rights activist. A white supremacist demonstrator who drove his car into a group of people was convicted in her killing and sentenced to life.

These grants will positively impact 40 communities nation-wide and result in the creation of a visible, preserved legacy of African American contributions, Lonnie Bunch, the first Black person to lead the Smithsonian Institution, said in a statement.

The Action Fund, with $50 million in funding from private donors, calls itself the largest effort ever to preserve sites linked to African American history.

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This story has been updated to correct the spelling of Lonnie Bunchs last name.
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FLAGSTAFF, Ariz.  Flood waters have invaded Flagstaff for a second day, leaving some roads unpassable and some residential streets looking like rivers.

Coconino County Emergency Management officials issued a shelter-in-place order Wednesday afternoon in the wake of major flooding. Residents were warned to move to higher ground and, under no circumstances, enter flood waters. Neighborhoods east of Flagstaff were primarily impacted, the Arizona Republic reported.

The National Weather Service issued flash flood warnings for Flagstaff, Doney Park and Winona through the late afternoon.

Videos residents shared on social media include footage of flowing water sending a Toyota Prius sailing down a street.

The rushing waters were expected as a byproduct of a burn scar caused by a wildfire two years ago, according to the Arizona Daily Sun. The scarred area is a few miles northwest of where flooding occurred a day earlier.

Receding waters, meanwhile, have left streets with debris and clogged drains.

The potential risk for flooding will likely be lingering. Meteorologists predict chances for rain through next Tuesday.

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PORTLAND, Ore.  More people living along the eastern edge of an Oregon wildfire were told to evacuate late Thursday as the inferno began spreading rapidly and erratically in hot afternoon winds and threatened to merge with a nearby, smaller fire that had also exploded in size.

The Bootleg Fire, the largest wildfire currently burning in the U.S., has now torched an area larger than New York City and has stymied firefighters with erratic winds and extremely dangerous fire behavior. The fire, pushed by winds from the south, has the potential to move 4 miles (6 kilometers) or more in an afternoon and there is concern it could merge with the smaller, yet still explosive Log Fire, said Rob Allen, incident commander for the blaze.

The Log Fire started on Monday as three smaller fires but exploded to nearly 5,000 acres (2,000 hectares) in 24 hours. It is also being fanned by winds from the south, Allen said.

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Firefighters were all pulled back to safe areas due to intense fire behavior and were scouting ahead of the main blaze for areas where they could make a stand by carving out fire lines to stop the infernos advance, he said.

Crews are watching the fire, nearby campgrounds and any place out in front of us to make sure the publics out of the way, Allen said. He said evacuation orders are still being assessed.

The main fire has destroyed 21 homes in an area north of the Oregon-California border that has been gripped by extreme drought. It was 7% contained as of Thursday, when authorities decided to expand previous evacuation orders near Summer Lake and Paisley. Both towns are located in Lake County, a remote area of lakes and wildlife refuges with a total population of about 8,000.

Were trying to determine where is it moving, how far and how fast, to determine what to do with evacuation levels, said Gert Zoutendijk, spokesman for the Oregon office of the State Fire Marshal. The big word is for everyone in Lake County to be aware and start getting signed up for the alert system if they have not already.

On Wednesday, the Bootleg Fire generated enormous smoke columns that could be seen for miles  a sign that the blaze is so intense it is creating its own weather, with erratic winds and the potential for fire-generated lightning.

Meanwhile, a fire near the northern California town of Paradise, which burned in a horrific 2018 wildfire, caused jitters among homeowners who were just starting to return to normal after surviving the deadliest blaze in U.S. history.

Chuck Dee and his wife, Janie, returned last year to Paradise on the foothills of Californias Sierra Nevada to rebuild a home lost in that fire. So when they woke up Thursday and saw smoke from the new Dixie Fire, it was frightening, even though it was burning away from populated areas.

It made my wife and I both nervous, he told The Associated Press in a telephone interview.

The Dixie Fire was tiny when it began on Tuesday, but by Thursday morning it had burned 3.5 square miles (9 square kilometers) of brush and timber near the Feather River Canyon area of Butte County northeast of Paradise. It also moved into national forest land in neighboring Plumas County.

There was zero containment and officials kept in place a warning for residents of the tiny communities of Pulga and east Concow to be ready to leave.

The Dixie Fire is part of a siege of conflagrations across the West. There were 71 active large fires and complexes of multiple fires that have burned nearly 1,553 square miles (4,022 square kilometers) in the U.S., mostly in Western states, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

Extremely dry conditions and heat waves tied to climate change have swept the region, making wildfires harder to fight. Climate change has made the American West much warmer and drier in the past 30 years and will continue to make weather more extreme and wildfires more frequent and destructive.

In the Pacific Northwest, firefighters say they are facing conditions more typical of late summer or fall than early July.

A wildfire threatening more than 1,500 homes near Wenatchee, Washington, grew to 14 square miles (36 square kilometers) by Thursday morning and was about 10% contained, the Washington state Department of Natural Resources said.

About 200 firefighters were battling the Red Apple Fire near the north-central Washington city renowned for its apples. The fire was also threatening apple orchards and an electrical substation, but no structures have been lost, officials said.

In Paradise, California, about 80 miles (129 kilometers) north of Sacramento, residents are focused on rebuilding. So far, 1,642 building permits have been issued with 923 homes completed, according to the citys website. The skyrocketing cost of lumber has complicated some projects, but Chuck Dee said he was fortunate to get his bid in place before the prices rose.

The Dees rebuilt house is a little smaller than the original one, and with a different floor plan  and this one was constructed with fire retardant siding. A local law also prohibits wooden fences from touching the houses.

The couple hope to move in once they get their utilities hooked up. In the meantime, theyre living in an RV. They said they dont regret moving back, having accepted that fires will be part of life in this part of California.

We cant wait to get back in this house and get started, Chuck Dee said.

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This story has been edited to correct that the size of the Log Fire is 5,000 acres, not 500 acres.

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Beam reported from Sacramento, California. Associated Press writers John Antczak in Los Angeles and Chris Grygiel in Seattle contributed to this report.
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DALLAS  A federal freeze on most evictions that was enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, has been the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and have fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing that they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rent.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they would face eviction within the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

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Heres the situation in Texas:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

The Texas Supreme Court suspended proceedings in most eviction cases in the state in March 2020, but they were allowed to resume about two months later.

After the CDC moratorium was issued, the court issued an order that directed judges hearing eviction cases to make sure the moratorium was followed. But at the end of March, the court dropped that language.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Federal funds have flowed into Texas to help tenants who qualify pay their rent. And attorneys from groups around the state have mobilized to represent renters in court.

When the pandemic began, several of the states big cities created their own rent relief programs, reallocating money and using reserves, said Christina Rosales, deputy director at Texas Housers, a nonprofit focused on housing issues. Since then, about $3.5 billion in U.S. Treasury Department funds have been distributed to the state and to dozens of cities and counties to help renters, she said.

The states Texas Rent Relief Program is distributing more than $1 billion. As of Thursday, it had paid out or was in the process of paying out more than $487 million, helping over 78,000 households.

Some cities, including Dallas and Austin, are providing additional protections for renters.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

After the state Supreme Court dropped the language from its order at the end of March addressing the CDC moratorium, advocates for renters say that whether it is followed has varied from court to court.

It has now become a patchwork of enforcement in the state of Texas, said Nelson Mock, an attorney with Texas RioGrande Legal Aid. And some courts are enforcing federal law, some courts are not enforcing federal law.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Theres a shortage of affordable and available rentals throughout Texas for extremely low income households, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition. And rent increases can be seen in Texas large cities, according to the latest figures from Realtor.com. The site says rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Austin stood at $1,300 in May, which was 8.7% higher than the previous year. In Dallas that figure stood at $1,230, which was up 9.3%.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CAUSE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Eviction cases are expected to increase once the CDC moratorium ends, and advocates for renters say homelessness could rise as well.

I think theres no question that homelessness will increase without other protections, Mock said. I think in every major city in the state of Texas, housing is at a premium, and affordable housing is very, very limited.

In January, an annual count of the homeless population in the Houston area found that about 15% of people surveyed said they were without a fixed address because of the pandemic.

Recent census data showed that 159,828 Texas residents believed they were very likely to be evicted within two months, while another 134,686 thought that was somewhat likely to happen.
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DENVER  A Colorado man killed his son almost a decade ago, after the 13-year-old boy learned things about his father that ultimately ruined their relationship, prosecutors told a jury in closing arguments Thursday.

Mark Redwine, 59, is on trial on charges of second-degree murder and child abuse resulting in the death of Dylan Redwine. The boy was reported missing on Nov. 19, 2012, while on a court-ordered Thanksgiving visit to his home outside the small southwestern city of Durango.

The defendants words and his deeds had pushed this loving boy to the point where Dylan no longer wanted to have any contact with the defendant and the only reason he had contact with the defendant was because the court ordered him to do so, District Attorney Michael Dougherty told jurors.

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Dylan Redwines remains were found a few miles from his fathers home in 2013, and his skull was found nearly three years later.

Mark Redwine told investigators that his son was asleep when he woke up that morning, and that he returned from errands to find him gone. His defense team has suggested the boy was killed by a wild animal.

Earlier in the trial, prosecutors revealed a compromising photo of Mark Redwine in womens lingerie while eating what appeared to be feces from a diaper. After Dylans older brother Cory Redwine testified in court that the siblings discovered the photos on their fathers computer, the prosecution argued that the discovery led to a slow decline in the way Dylan saw his father and their closeness.

Dylan was no longer simply an adoring young boy who just wanted to be with his parents. He came to recognize that his parents were people and he came to recognize the person that the defendant was in his life, Dougherty said.

Public defender Justin Bogan pressed the jury to consider any reasonable doubt arising from the prosecutions speculation on the motive as well as the lack of DNA evidence, weapon and cause of death.

The government, the prosecutors, the La Plata county sheriffs department, FBI, Colorado Bureau of Investigations, National Forest Service cannot tell you after nine years what happened because they dont know, Bogan said. If they dont know, you dont know.

Dougherty repeatedly called the case simple and tragic and said that Redwines behavior was consistent with second-degree murder because he knowingly killed Dylan with injuries not just one place, but two places.

The defense argued that expert testimony earlier in the trial showed Dylans skull was still in a peri-mortem state in 2015. He said that means it retained elasticity and wetness, making it susceptible to environmental factors like animal scavenging for three years before it was discovered.

Bogan called the investigation biased and sloppy because of evidence destruction by an expert who broke off a piece of Dylans skull during their examination and a scientist who revealed in court that the prosecution gave police reports to them before their testimony. Bogan also said investigators were selective with the evidence collected and called Redwine a target because cameras and GPS were set up to watch Redwine.

The prosecution emphasized that Dylans lack of text messages and social media activity on the morning of Nov. 19, 2012, show Redwines attempts to cover up the murder with stories contrary to Dylans usual behavior and plans for the day. Redwine said he agreed to drive Dylan to his friends house when he returned home from errands around 11 a.m. despite text messages that show his son planned to go to his friends house at 6:30 a.m.

If Dylan were alive that morning like this guy wants you to believe, he would have been in touch with his friend, responded to his mothers texts and showed activity on Facebook, Dougherty said.

Instead, Dylan was never heard from again, he said.

Meanwhile, the defense said that Redwine, the guy working in the oil field, didnt have enough time or knowledge to dismember a body, clean up effectively to evade a luminol test for blood and appear fine at work the next day.

Redwine was arrested after a grand jury indicted him in July 2017. He faces up to 48 years in prison if he is convicted.

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Nieberg is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on under-covered issues.
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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.  For Fabby Espitia-Archuleta, opening her restaurant, The EL ROI Cafe, alongside her husband was a dream several years in the making.

However, like many hopeful restaurateurs, her dream took a little bit longer to be realized thanks to the pandemic.

Now, however, her Downtown cafe is open  one year after it was originally slated to launch.

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Espitia-Archuleta opened The EL ROI Cafe with husband Joshua Archuleta in late May at 616 Lomas NW.

She said that the cafe is already gaining momentum with Downtown office workers in the few weeks since opening.

I think that we opened up at the right time in some sense because everything was opening back up, and now everythings opened back up 100%, Espitia-Archuleta said.

Espitia-Archuleta, a lifelong New Mexican, said she and her husband, who is half Native American from Ohkay Owingeh, combined their backgrounds to create a menu that includes traditional New Mexican foods like enchiladas and Pueblo staples like fry bread and mutton stew.

We took just a few of both of the staple dishes of each genre of New Mexican and Native American (foods) and put it on the menu, she said.

She said popular menu items include the fry bread green chile cheeseburger and the Indian taco. Prices range from $6 to $15.

The EL ROI Cafe also offers breakfast items like breakfast burritos, huevos rancheros and blue corn mush.

Espitia-Archuleta said she hopes to grow the restaurant so that it eventually has several locations in the city and in central New Mexico. She wants the restaurant to be a job creator for the community and an Albuquerque staple.

My goal is that you have the best possible experience coming in and eating with us, she said. I dont want anybody leaving here unhappy or unsatisfied.

The EL ROI Cafe is open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
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By most accounts, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)  at least in the form that its currently known  originated in Hawaii as something of a less intimidating alternative to surfing.

Though the art of propelling oneself through the water on a floating structure with a paddle likely has origins dating back thousands of years prior, the sport initially rose to prominence in the United States behind the efforts of surfing legend Laird Hamilton in the early 2000s. SUP has enjoyed a steady increase in popularity since then: According to a study conducted by the Outdoor Industry Association in 2013, SUP had the highest number of new participants among outdoor recreational activities.

The growth of SUP has followed a similar path in the Land of Enchantment. Matt Gontram, owner of New Mexico River Adventures, was one of the first to seize upon the opportunity in the state approximately a decade ago.

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When we started New Mexico River Adventures our very first year, we brought it into the fold right away, he said. We were the first river company to offer stand-up paddleboarding lessons and rentals. We were the ones to start it right on the Rio Grande.

Currently, Gontrams company offers a guided three-day trip on the Rio Chama for $495 or a half-day excursion on the Rio Grande for $90, but he says that SUP accounts for only a fraction of New Mexico River Adventures business, which is focused primarily on rafting. That said, Gontram admits that SUP has grown exponentially since NMRA first provided the option.

Lets be honest: Somebody looks at a whitewater kayak, theyre gonna be pretty intimidated to begin with  . You look at a paddleboard and anybody can get on one right away. You just stand on it, work on your balance and off you go, Gontram said. We dont take paddleboards down any difficult whitewater. It opens up accessibility to everyone.

Now the actual board pricing has gone down, competition has gone up in the stand-up paddleboarding industry. It opens it up to a wide variety of people, which I love to see. At the end of the day, its all about getting people out on the river.

Corey Spoores, owner of the Albuquerque-based MST Adventures, was initially turned on to SUP when he lived on Lake Erie in the early 2000s and he eventually brought that passion to New Mexico in 2017. Currently, MST Adventures offers five different SUP tours, which allow paddleboarders to traverse the Rio Grande at sunrise, at sunset, in the moonlight, during the Balloon Fiesta  and on a special brewery trip.

Being on or in the river when its 100 degrees outside is really pleasurable, and it sure as hell beats hiking in the Foothills, which radiates heat, Spoores said. People are seeing the physical benefits (and) the stress-relieving benefits of activity done along the river.

For the uninitiated, MST Adventures has a paddleboard fitness class thats also held on the waters of the Rio Grande. Its nothing too complicated, but it will help get the SUP-related muscles firing.

Were gonna do some very core-specific exercises so they can kind of know what it should feel like when theyre out paddling, Spoores said.

When it comes to boards, Spoores recommends that New Mexicans go the inflatable route for convenience and transportation purposes. Price can range anywhere from $200 to $1,200.

In New Mexico, only 0.003% of the state is covered in water. What does that mean to the layperson? It means youre driving a lot, he said. I think inflatable paddleboards are a really nice item for New Mexico. They dont take a lot of space to store. It doesnt take a lot of time to inflate them. And you dont need any special equipment to haul them. You dont need a truck, you dont need a roof rack. I can put three or four complete kits in the trunk of a Honda Accord.

Gontram, meanwhile, says NMRA just recently acquired a new fleet of SOL-brand inflatable paddleboards.

We love them. Theyre very stable, very stiff, compact, he said. We think theyre great.

As far as finding a suitable spot to paddleboard, well, most any body of water can be fair game. Of course, the more ambitious and adventurous will be able to find the prime locations.

Im not gonna give you my favorite spot because it wont be my favorite spot (any more), itll be everybody elses favorite spot.  If youre creative, you can find a place to paddle, Spoores said.
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The disgraced movie mogul and the Marchesa designer are legally divorced after the proceedings are finalized, roughly four years after their split following his sexual assault scandal.

Jul 15, 2021

AceShowbiz - Harvey Weinstein and Georgina Chapman's divorce has been finalised.

A final, sealed motion was filed in the former couple's contested divorce case in Manhattan Supreme Court on Monday (12Jul21), with online court records showing that the case is now "disposed" - meaning that the divorce decree has been signed by a judge and is therefore closed.

Attorneys for Marchesa designer Chapman and Weinstein, who is currently serving a 23-year prison sentence in New York for rape and sexual assault, have yet to comment.

Chapman split from Weinstein in late 2017 after the father of her two kids was hit with a string of sexual misconduct allegations.

She started dating "The Pianist" star Adrien Brody in 2019, and the pair made their red carpet debut at New York's Tribeca Festival last month (Jun21).

The couple stepped out together for the Tribeca premiere of Brody's new crime thriller "Clean", smiling as they posed for the cameras.



When splitting from Georgina four years ago, Harvey Weinstein stated, "Over the last week, there has been a lot of pain for my family that I take responsibility for. I sat down with my wife Georgina, who I love more than anything, and we discussed what was best for our family. We discussed the possibility of a separation and I encouraged her to do what was in her heart. In the end, she made the decision to separate."



He is set to face 11 further criminal charges in Los Angeles after a judge approved plans for his extradition. He's accused of sexually assaulting five women in California over the course of a decade.

The movie mogul denied any wrongdoing, insisting all of his sexual encounters were consensual.

If convicted in Los Angeles, he faces 140 years to life in prison.
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Hunter Ecimovic, known online as Hunter Echo, regrets making 'stupid' comments about his past relationship with the 'Stranger Things' actress and insists he never groomed her.

Jul 15, 2021

AceShowbiz - TikTok star Hunter Echo has apologised for making sickening comments about Millie Bobby Brown during a drunken livestream.

The influencer, real name Hunter Ecimovic, has been threatened with legal action for his "dishonest" and "offensive" claims during an Instagram Live session, in which he bragged about sleeping with the "Stranger Things" star last year (20) when she was 16.

He also made inappropriate sexual comments about the actress, prompting her representatives to issue a statement on Tuesday (13Jul21), which read, "Mr. Ecimovic's remarks on social media are not only dishonest, but also are irresponsible, offensive and hateful. Instead of engaging in a public discourse with him through the press or on social media, we are taking action to ensure that he stops this behavior once and for all."

Hours later, Hunter took to TikTok to apologise for his online comments, calling his rant "a stupid idea."

The 21 year old added, "I put up a livestream for about two to three hours, and in those two to three hours I was getting more and more drunk... I became more careless and I said stuff that should have never been said."

"My natural instinct when I see people doing that kind of stuff, or when I see what people are saying, I'm like, 'OK, let's make it way worse and let's antagonize,' which is so stupid. But that's how I decided to handle it."

And he accepts his comments stirred up a storm of negativity for Brown, adding, "People are trying to make it 10 times worse. There's already stories that are completely not correct, were never said. It's all being fabricated, because that's what happens, apparently... You guys are spreading stuff that's not true. Not at all. And then, like, you guys are just taking the information and just running with it. It's like a little rumour about something, and then it gets spread, and now it's like, it's just like true."

Wrapping up his lengthy apology, Hunter admitted he is not proud of what he said, explaining, "It looked horrible on my family, it looked horrible on me, it looked horrible on my friends. I am sorry for doing that livestream. I should have ended it the moment it started getting bad."

But he still insists he and Millie were intimate, adding, "I'm not OK with what I said. I'm not trying to justify it at all... I never groomed her (Brown). I never put pressure on her to like me...? It was consensual on both parts. Her parents approved of everything. I was living under their roof."
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The 'Ghost Rider' actor sets the record straight on the rumors suggesting he will play the controversial 'Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness' star in an upcoming TV series.

Jul 15, 2021

AceShowbiz - Nicolas Cage has "cleared the record" about his rumoured Amazon series about Tiger King's Joe Exotic, insisting the programme is "no longer relevant."

It was reported earlier this year (21) that the "Face/Off" star would portray the big cat collector in a scripted show based on the hugely popular Netflix docu-series and the Texas Monthly article "Joe Exotic: A Dark Journey Into the World of a Man Gone Wild", written by Leif Reigstad.

However, in an interview with Variety, Cage said that the planned programme had been scrapped.

"We should clear the record," he said. "I read two excellent scripts, which I did think were excellent, but I think Amazon ultimately felt that it was material that had become past tense because it took so long for it come together."

"They felt at one point that it was lightning in a bottle, but that point has since faded into the distance and it's no longer relevant."

The real Joe Exotic is currently serving a 22-year prison sentence for his role in a murder-for-hire plot against Carole Baskin. He recently asked former U.S. leader Donald Trump for an official pardon in his ongoing fight for freedom.

Another series about Carole Baskin is also developed following the success of Netflix's "Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness". Kate McKinnon has been tapped to play the animal rights activist.

In response to the project, Baskin asked the actress not to use live animals, "We hope McKinnon has a passion for animals and that her series will focus on the horrible lives captive big cats lead when exploited by breeders like Joe Exotic. We further hope she urges the public to support the Big Cat Public Safety Act that would end the cub petting abuse in America."
Marvel Studios TV

The Marvel series about the God of Mischief played by the 'Crimson Peak' actor has officially been confirmed by Disney to return for a second installment.

Jul 15, 2021

AceShowbiz - Tom Hiddleston's Disney+ series "Loki" will be returning for a second season.

"The Avengers" spin-off series - centred around on Thor's villainous brother, played by Hiddleston - has been a huge hit for the streaming service since it premiered in June (21).

The sixth, final episode of the first season was released on Wednesday (14Jul21), with a post-credits scene at the end of the episode revealing, "Loki will return in season 2."

No further details were given.

The finale of the first season also teased the upcoming film "Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness" - due for release in March 2022.

The Marvel Cinematic Universe has enjoyed massive success with their Disney+ series spinoffs, including their first offering "WandaVision" - which earned an incredible 23 nods when the Emmy Award nominations were announced on Tuesday. "The Falcon and the Winter Soldier", starring Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan, is also up for five awards at the ceremony in September.

Don Cheadle is up for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series at the Emmys, thanks to his 98-second appearance in the first episode of the series as Colonel James Rhodes.

As fans were baffled by his nomination, the actor told them he was confused as well. "Thanks, well wishers. sorry, haters. agreed, [shrug emoji] i don't really get it either. buuuuuuuuuut on we go," so he wrote on Twitter in response to the nod.

Neither Anthony Mackie nor Sebastian Stan received nomination.
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In a new interview, the Duchess of York also expresses how highly she thinks of the British monarch, saying, 'I really respect the monarchy of Britain, and I really love the tradition and culture.'

Jul 15, 2021

AceShowbiz - Sarah Ferguson is defending her ex Prince Andrew after he decided to step back from his public duties. While discussing the son of Queen Elizabeth II and their past marriage in a new interview, the Duchess of York had nothing but good words for her ex-husband.

In the interview with PEOPLE, Sarah called Prince Andrew a "kind, good man" and "a fabulous father" to their daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. She also made it clear that she remains supportive for the royal, saying, "Whatever challenges he has, I will stand firm to the co-parenters that we are together. So sometimes when Andrew's down, I'm up, or when I'm down, he's up, and we will always be supportive of each other."

Sarah also expressed how highly she thinks of the British monarch. "I really respect the monarchy of Britain, and I really love the tradition and culture," she told the magazine. "He has his own way, and I have my very Celtic, very spiritual way. So we are a good balanceAndrew has always stood very firmly with me, and he has never shut the door."

Prince Andrew announced that he stepped back from royal duty in November 2019, just days after a TV interview about his sex scandal aired. The royal was accused of having sex with a 17-year-old girl obtained for him by his friend and convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

In a statement announcing his decision, Andrew wrote, "It has become clear to me over the last few days that the circumstances relating to my former association with Jeffrey Epstein has become a major disruption to my family's work and the valuable work going on in the many organisations and charities that I am proud to support. Therefore, I have asked Her Majesty if I may step back from public duties for the foreseeable future, and she has given her permission."

"I continue to unequivocally regret my ill-judged association with Jeffrey Epstein," he continued. "His suicide has left many unanswered questions, particularly for his victims, and I deeply sympathise with everyone who has been affected and wants some form of closure. I can only hope that, in time, they will be able to rebuild their lives. Of course, I am willing to help any appropriate law enforcement agency with their investigations, if required."
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The hearing, which is closed to the public, is held to determine whether one of the 'Empire' alum's attorneys, Nenye Uche, has a conflict of interest representing him in the case.

Jul 15, 2021

AceShowbiz - Jussie Smollett has returned to court for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. The former "Empire" star, who has been accused of orchestrating a hate crime against himself in January 2019, insisted that he was not guilty.

At the five-hour hearing, which took place at the Cook County Courthouse on Wednesday, July 14, the 39-year-old actor maintained his innocence. He also described the ongoing trial against him as a "dog and pony show."

Smollett appeared at the private hearing to determine whether one of his attorneys, Nenye Uche, has a conflict of interest representing him in the case. The assumption emerged after Uche reportedly spoke with two of Smollett's alleged accomplices early on in the case.

The accomplices in question are brothers Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo. The siblings alleged that they were paid by Smollet to stage the hate crime against him because he was not happy with his salary. The Langston Hughes depicter in "Marshall" has said several times that Abel and Olabinjo were not telling the truth.

Uche, meanwhile, has denied repeatedly that he ever had conversations with the brothers. "The prosecution should focus on prosecuting the case as opposed to trying to prosecute the defense attorney," Uche stated at a previous hearing.

Judge James Linn was expected to hear Uche and the Osundairo brothers' testimony at the Wednesday hearing. If Uche was proven to have talked to the siblings, he could be disqualified from the case.

In January 2019, Smollett was accused of hiring the brothers to stage an attack on himself outside his Chicago apartment. He was initially indicted on 16 felony counts of filing a false police report, but Cook County State's Attorney Kim Foxx dropped all charges against him. In February 2020, he was hit with a new six-count indictment accusing him of lying.
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Aside from talking about how he was affected during the coronavirus lockdown, the 'Pig' star admits he was thankful to be close to his wife Riko, his sons, and four grandchildren.

Jul 15, 2021

AceShowbiz - Nicolas Cage found the experience of quarantine 'anxiety-inducing' and missed dining out at his favourite restaurants.

The "Face/Off" star will next be seen in the movie "Pig", playing Rob, a truffle hunter living in the Oregon wilderness who returns to his hometown of Portland to find his stolen pet.

And speaking to GQ magazine, Cage opened up on how he was affected during the coronavirus lockdown, which stalled production on Hollywood movies for months.

"Quarantine was, for me, very anxiety-inducing because we didn't know where it would lead," he told the publication. "And I do enjoy food immensely. Thats what I like to spend my money on, going to restaurants and talking to the chef. Thats almost a spiritual part of my life."

"Which is another reason why I thought that Rob was a good part for me because of my genuine regard for chefs and what they can accomplish. "The epicurean, culinary world has been very meaningful to me. It always came first--without the food, first, I couldn't enjoy the painting or enjoy the music. I put chefs at a very high level in the realm of art."

However, the 57-year-old admitted he was thankful to be close to his family, which includes his wife Riko, his sons Kal-El, 15, who he shares with his third wife Alice Kim, Weston, 30, by former partner Christina Fulton, and four grandchildren.

"...I did have my family and I did have my animals and caught up on a lot of viewing," he said. "I watched a lot of movies, which I think is among the best ways to say on point with the craft of film performance. So I got a lot done, but still, I did miss, 'Wow, theyve got soft-shell crab, I really wish I could have that soft-shell crab and combine it with some nice bit of chardonnay'."
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Announcing that their joint project titled 'Wild Side' will be coming out soon, the 'WAP' raptress and the 'Motivation' songstress unveil the racy artwork of their new single on Instagram.

Jul 15, 2021

AceShowbiz - Cardi B and Normani Kordei have been quietly cooking up a new project. The two female artists are joining forces for an upcoming track, which they have just announced on social media with a steamy teaser.

Making use of Instagram, both stars took to their respective page on Wednesday, July 14 to unveil the cover art for their single titled "Wild Side". In the racy artwork, the Bronx femcee and the former "The X Factor" contestant posed fully naked, with only their long strands of hair covering their private parts.

Cardi sat on a large silver slab with her collaborator propping herself up with one arm and lying with her legs slightly crossed across from the pregnant rapper. Set on a silver backdrop, the image exudes goddess-like vibe.

Cardi and Normani's joint track will be released on Thursday, July 15 as they announced with their post. "Get your coins ready @normani 7/15 9pm PST," so the former captioned the artwork on her account. Her "WAP" collaborator Megan Thee Stallion couldn't hide her excitement for the new song, replying under Cardi's caption, "Yassssssss."

After sharing the sultry artwork, Cardi took to her Instagram Story to hype up "Normani's big come back" into the music scene. "This song and everything is amazing. I'm so proud of her," the "Bodak Yellow" hitmaker gushed in a video. "I'm so excited. You guys are going to see Normani in a different light."

Meanwhile, Normani accompanied her post with a caption that read, "7/15 9pm PST! wild side ft. @iamcardib." Megan then made her way over to the former Fifth Harmony member's page and added, "My girllsss [heart eyes emoji]."

Normani and Megan previously teamed up for their song "Diamonds", which appeared on the "Birds of Prey: And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn" soundtrack.

"Wild Side" marks Normani's first single since she released "Diamonds" with Megan in 2020. As for Cardi, she released her last song "Up" in February of this year.
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The Virgin Galactic boss blames his dyslexia for making a blunder by unbuckling his parachute instead of his seat belt before taking off to space over the weekend.

Jul 16, 2021

AceShowbiz - Entrepreneur Richard Branson messed up during pre-flight checks before blasting into space on Sunday (11Jul21) - when he unbuckled his parachute instead of his seat belt.

The Virgin Galactic boss was on board his company's rocket, which blasted off in New Mexico for the one and a half hour trip to the edge of space and, on Wednesday, he told "Live with Kelly and Ryan" his job on the mission was to spot "mistakes" that might affect future flights.

But he wasn't expecting to be one of the people who made a huge boob right before take off.

"My task was what I do when I start any new company, (it was) just to check out little things that can go wrong or that need to be fixed for future astronauts," he smiled.

"For instance, I sat in the seat before going up, I put my parachute on, (and) they said, 'Right, now unbuckle your seat (belt) and you'll float around'. Of course, I'm dyslexic so I unbuckled the parachute and not the seat (belt). So I said, 'Maybe we should cover up that bit (parachute release button).' "

But everything else went to plan and the airline executive still finds it "impossible" to accurately relay what he saw from his rocket ship window.

"The Earth we live on is just the most beautiful planet in the universe and it's impossible to describe the whole experience," he shared.
In an industry-first initiative, Indias largest public relations consultancy, Adfactors PR, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with India Blockchain Alliance (IBA) to foster conversations around Blockchain technology in India.

IBA is the most influential voice in the Blockchain industry. It is a not-for-profit organisation that promotes evidence-based adoption of Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technologies (DLT) across public and private sectors. IBA is present in nine countries and has strategic tie-ups with global Blockchain bodies.

GAMEXX Awards 2021 Early Bird Discount Extended Last Date - Wednesday, June 30, 2021 - ENTER NOW

Adfactors PR is a market innovator in building new ecosystem partnerships that offer bespoke communication solutions to businesses on emerging technologies. The consultancy has industry-leading practices in Financial Services and FinTech sectors with 150-plus Indian and global clients in the space.

The global market of Blockchain is estimated to reach around $40 billion by 2025. Start-ups in Blockchain and Cryptocurrency have received nearly $100 million in investments during the first half of 2021, indicating the growing interest of investors in the technology.

Blockchain is known for reducing costs, removing process inefficiencies, enhancing traceability of data and bringing transparency. The technology finds applications across public healthcare, finance, energy, supply chain, capital markets, insurance, real estate, media, law and social impact projects among others.

With this MoU, Adfactors PR and IBA will create a synergy among different stakeholders in the financial ecosystem, including businesses, industry leaders, technologists and academicians to mainstream conversations around Blockchain, DLT, and Cryptocurrency over the coming years.

Adfactors PR Co-Founder and Managing Director Madan Bahal said, Our constant endeavour to assist businesses in a rapidly changing world has resulted in the launch of several industry-first Practices, including New Economy, Frontier Technologies and Mobility. All of these Practices focus on driving communications around the future of our society. Adfactors PR is excited to partner with India Blockchain Alliance to drive industry conversation around yet another realm of technology that is core to reimagining the financial world and content disbursement in the coming years.

IBA Founder Raj Kapoor said, With this partnership, IBA and Adfactors will align to see an India that leads the world in the adoption of blockchain technology that has transformed the economy and society to achieve significantly greater competitiveness, efficiency, service quality, social engagement and employment. This partnership will support our vision to encourage the responsible adoption of blockchain technology by industry and governments across India as a means to drive innovation in service delivery across all sectors of the economy. 

Over the last 24 years, Adfactors PR has been at the forefront of driving conversations around newer technologies that make a significant impact on society and the economy.
Akshat Srivastava, Associate Director, e-commerce at The Walt Disney Company, has quit the company after being associated for 6.5 years. He made this announcement via a LinkedIn post.

Srivastava was leading the D2C & third party eCommerce channel for Disney consumer products business in SEA, India & MENA. He had joined Disney in 2014 as a Category Manager and last served as Associate Director, e-commerce.

Before joining Disney, he has also worked with famous brands like EY, ITC & L'Oreal.
Gupshup, the leader in conversational messaging has launched conversational out-of-home ads. These phygital ad formats take traditional physical advertising surfaces like billboards, bus shelters, airport terminals, cabs and metro stations and trains and convert them into interactive surfaces with the addition of a QR code. The code, once scanned, opens a chat interface that connects the viewer with the branded bot in a 2-way conversation. This works on any device and needs no app download. The conversations are powered by Gupshup IP Messaging (GIP) which leverages Conversational AI to create interactive experiences. Gupshup aims to make OOH ads interactive and measurable for brands in order to increase advertising effectiveness and ROI. For media companies owning and selling advertising inventory, this technology can drive more inquiries and also help them offer more to brands than just inventory space.

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As a part of the campaign, Gupshup placed advertisements on financial literacy which, on scanning the QR code, take people to a chatbot that can offer customers access to financial literacy guides, education material and more. Another set of ads help provide people information on COVID 19 and vaccination (COVID 19 chatbot). All information was sourced from Government of India websites. The ads are placed in Mumbai at Andheri Link Road, Andheri Juhu Versova Link Road, the busiest bus stops, on the back of the cab seats, in metros as well as the Airports. (Link to OOH ads)

Conversational OOH ads have many advantages. They improve engagement. They help brands link offline to online. They help to re-target customers who look at physical ads. They enable the creation of detailed metrics on the people who view their ads. The conversations are dynamic and can adapt to the customer in real-time. They also enable commercial transactions wherein a person looking at the physical ad can interact with the brand via the bot, discover products and also buy them while chatting with the brand.

Brands that invest in OOH Advertising are looking for ways to make them interactive and measurable. Agencies that own and sell advertising inventory need to provide more than space to brands and leverage conversational technology to generate more enquiries for unsold inventory, explained Beerud Sheth, co-founder, and CEO, Gupshup. Our Conversational OOH Ads make physical surfaces interactive. With a simple QR-code scan, chatbots powered by conversational AI improve customer engagement and make ads more measurable. Its the perfect way to transition a physical 1-way customer experience to a digital 2-way conversation. We are committed to helping brands and media agencies leverage the power of conversational messaging to improve advertisement engagement and effectiveness, he explained.

Gupshup, recently raised $100 million in funding from Tiger Global Management, propelling the companys valuation to $1.4 billion. The company has long been the incumbent leader in business messaging in India. Most major brands in India across industries use Gupshup API for customer engagement across multiple messaging channels. Gupshups API enables over 100,000 developers and businesses to build messaging and conversational experiences delivering over 6 billion messages per month across 30+ messaging channels.
Mixed Route Juice, The Delhi based creative content agency, has bagged the creative and digital media mandate for BLAUPUNKT, one of the most loved and well-recognised German TV brand, in India. The agency bagged the account in a multi-agency pitch and will be responsible for their mainline and digital creative along with media duties for the brand.

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Commenting on this new association, Amrita Sharma, Co-Founder & Creative Head at MRJ said "The TV category in India is flooded with products offering innovations in their own way. Blaupunkt TV wanted to emerge as a distinctive niche category player. This portfolio addition to our kitty will help us experiment with the type of content we've been creating so far. Our campaign #HearNow will do justice to the product offering and help carve a niche."

Commenting on this association, Mr Avneet Marwah, CEO SPPL, the licensee for Blaupunkt in India, said, The team at Mixed Route Juice has done some amazing work in the past. We have a very long association with them. We are very excited about our new campaigns lined up for our upcoming brand Blaupunkt.

Since the late 1950s, Blaupunkt has followed current market trends, and introduced new appliances in short development cycles. The company, which belonged to the Bosch Group and had its headquarters in Hildesheim since the end of 1945, also offered a comprehensive range of consumer electronics. It has been a legendary brand in terms of its product portfolio and offerings.

Mixed Route Juice aka MRJ is a content and social agency that believes in innovation and ideation with creative punch. MRJ believes in creating content which gets a brand buzzing. The boutique agency which is into its seventh year of operations have successfully managed numerous brands namely - JW Marriott, THOMSON, DLF, IBIS, Radisson, OPPO, BOSE, VIVO, SAMSUNG and many others.
Indias multi-category, multi-brand beverage behemoth Parle Agro that has been dominating the fruit-based drinks category in the country for over three decades with iconic Indian beverages, has announced its diversification into the Dairy Category. The move is backed by years of devoted in-depth research and extensive investment in modern and innovative technologies to build a robust dairy infrastructure and introduce novel products to the Indian consumers. With this, Parle Agro is set to dynamically transform the dairy universe in India with innovations and new consumer experiences that havent existed in the category before.

Parle Agro makes its entry into the dairy segment with a high quality and premium range of flavoured milk products  SMOODH. With disruption ingrained in the companys philosophy, SMOODH becomes the only flavoured milk beverage in the market globally, to be available in 85 ml Tetra Pak cartons and priced at only Rs.10. With this offering, Parle Agro is gunning to grow the branded flavoured milk market in India from the current INR 800 crores to INR 5000 crores in the next four years.

SMOODH is a silky, wholesome and delicious flavoured milk beverage available in two universally popular consumer choices, Chocolate Milk and Toffee Caramel. Created combining the finest quality ingredients and the goodness of milk, this drink is sure to become a new favorite of consumers across all age groups.

Commenting on the launch of SMOODH, Nadia Chauhan, Joint Managing Director and CMO, Parle Agro said, Years of dedicated R&D have gone into developing this incredible product. And like all Parle Agro products, I am extremely happy and delighted to finally launch it in the market for our consumers to experience. As one of Indias leading Beverage Companies that has always been led by innovations, it has been a conscious effort to bring Indian consumers high quality and rich in taste products at the best value. SMOODH is in sync with this very vision.

Elaborating further on the impact that the innovative SMOODH will bring to the beverage industry, Ms. Chauhan added, SMOODH is a product that can be described as a technological marvel from all aspects  product, quality, price and pack-size. With the immense consumption opportunities that it presents, we are looking to create a substantial dent not just in the beverage category, but in the Rs. 10 Chocolate category as well which is currently an INR 4,300 crore industry.

Disruption in the Flavoured Milk and Rs. 10 Chocolate Category with SMOODH

SMOODH is the only brand in the flavoured milk category priced at an incredible value of Rs. 10/-. This gives Parle Agro the opportunity to break the pricing barrier, a factor that has hampered the growth of the flavoured milk category in India. The price and pack-size also enables Parle Agro to achieve high penetration and distribution for SMOODH.

SMOODH also meets the need of consumers looking for a quick energy boost or a quick sweet fix, equivalent to that of a Rs. 10 chocolate bite. Thus, with the unique and disruptive pack size and price for a chocolate milk beverage, Smoodh is sure make an impact not only in the flavoured milk category, but in the Rs. 10 chocolate category as well.

Since its soft launch, SMOODH has been seeing almost equal offtake in rural and urban markets, a phenomenon that has never been experienced by existing branded flavoured milk brands in aseptic cartons as they dont exist in rural markets. With this breakthrough combination in price and pack size, Parle Agro has brilliantly activated almost 80-90% of the rural market for flavoured milk which has never been activated to date, until the launch of SMOODH.

Speaking about the launch of SMOODH by Parle Agro, Adolfo Orive, President & CEO, Tetra Pak commented, Tetra Paks partnership with Parle Agro has been a partnership of many firsts, from the first Frooti package that made Tetra Pak a household name in India three decades ago, to being the partners of choice for this pivotal entry into the dairy segment. Were inspired by the vision they have for the dairy market in India, and with our integrated packaging, processing and services solutions, we are committed to supporting them in taking the category to new heights. In addition, SMOODH is being launched in the TBA 90 Ultra package, which is not just a first in India, but a global first for Tetra Pak. We are truly honored to be part of the Parle Agro story for over three decades and look forward to supporting this new phase of growth.

Technological Innovation and Infrastructure

SMOODH is currently being produced at two manufacturing locations - Mysore and Sitarganj. By the end of 2021, Parle Agro will have added two more manufacturing locations producing SMOODH. The company has invested INR 100 crores for the latest and most advanced manufacturing technologies at their plants to ensure the premium quality of SMOODH is maintained and remains top notch.

Future of Dairy Vertical at Parle Agro

SMOODH range of flavoured milk beverages is just the beginning of the innovative offerings that Parle Agro plans to bring to the dairy category. The company has set their vision on introducing a range of ground-breaking products under their dairy portfolio apart from flavoured milk products that will shake up and cause disruption in the dairy market.

Ms. Chauhan added, The dairy market is really dynamic. We envision a very high and untapped potential to further optimize products in this market. As a leading brand whose strength lies in establishing new categories, building brands and capturing market share, we are very passionate about setting and reaching ambitious goals. We will continue to innovate with our product line with the vision of making Parle Agro the #1 Beverage Company in India while creating a historic transformation in the dairy industry with never-before products.

Plans are underway for a state-wise launch of SMOODH with a distribution target of 2.2 million outlets across India. A strategic 360-degree marketing plan will be implemented post nationwide availability of the product.
slice, a fintech startup and credit card challenger, today announced the appointment of Nitin Basant as the companys Chief Data Scientist.

An alumnus of IIT Kharagpur, Nitin brings with him 14 years of highly skilled experience in the data science & analytics field.

Prior to joining slice, he was leading a global team of data scientists at FICO, a data analytics company in San Diego, California. Nitin has worked with clients globally across sectors such as financial services, insurance, telecom, retail, & manufacturing. With broad experience in R&D of analytic solutions, he has co-authored 5 patents in his professional career so far, out of which 3 have received a patent grant. In his new role, Nitin will be responsible for scaling up the data science & analytics team at slice.

Commenting on his appointment, Rajan Bajaj, Founder & CEO, slice said, Nitin brings with him tremendous depth & breadth in data science & analytics. Given how slice is already pushing boundaries in terms of simple, customised, & hassle-free customer experience, Nitin will be further driving a culture of data-driven decision making at slice. With minds like Nitin in our team, we have a well-rounded team on board to introduce more game-changing features & new growth initiatives.

Nitin Basant, Chief Data Scientist, slice said, The team at slice is challenging all conventional notions of customer experience & digital payments in India. I hope to push the boundaries in terms of how we can use data, ML and AI to deliver an unmatched experience to our customers. Having closely witnessed how data innovation can set organizations apart in the fintech space coupled with my experience at a global analytics firm, have helped me adopt best industry practices. slice has given me the opportunity to marry the two. Im excited to be a part of the team & also to come back to India to contribute my bit to the growing Indian fintech ecosystem.

slice has more than 3 million users. Despite the pandemic, the company continued hiring and strengthening its leadership team and recorded a 40-50% increase in average customer spends. slice also recently launched a game-changing rewards feature which makes slice super card the best way for millennials and gen z to make payments.
An interesting firing took place in Tennessee over parental consent and marketing vaccines directly to minors. Whether you want the Covid vaccine for yourself or not, allowing children as young as 12 to make healthcare decisions for themselves without parental knowledge can be frightening to consider. We can play devil's advocate. For instance, if teens are going to be sexually active, obtaining birth control without parental consent could be seen as verboten (to some) or common sense (to others) as teen pregnancy carries serious consequences. But, birth control pills and implantable IUDs carry health risk. The risk of teen pregnancy for both the boy and the girl can be life changing. But what about Covid vaccination? Is the risk reward equation similar? Especially for a vaccine that is still in the experimental stages and has incomplete data on risk to children, including their future fertility and their cardiac status. Both scenarios depend on the parents' politics, upbringing, life experience, maybe religion and personal point of view. Troubling to me, is that I read that Dr. Fiscus was sent a muzzle anonymously in the mail. She perceived it as a threat to keep quiet - and who could blame her? But what if it was sent from someone telling her she should not be muzzled? Either way, it's intimidating and I feel for her and her family, as she is likely worried about her safety. Just as many of us are worried about our kids' safety if vaccinated. And we know from muzzles. What a world.



This firing took place in Tennessee. You might recall that Nurse Tiffany Pontes-Dover was vaccinated for COVID on camera during a press event at her Chattanooga hospital back in December. Nurse Dover fainted on camera. Without getting into cloak and dagger territory, her formerly active social media Instagram account was ceased, and despite thousands of requests for proof she survived, there are questions as to whether she is alive or not. Has anyone asked Dr. Fiscus if she has been in contact with Nurse Dover, as a former senior vaccination official in the state?



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NPR: She Says She Was Fired For Saying That Teens Don't Need Parental Consent For Vaccines

Tennessee's top vaccine official says she has been fired as punishment for doing her job in the face of political pushback.

Dr. Michelle Fiscus was caught up in a controversy after she passed along legal guidance to health providers saying teenagers do not need parents' consent to receive a COVID-19 vaccine shot  a position established by decades of state law.

"Specifically, it was MY job to provide evidence-based education and vaccine access so that Tennesseans could protect themselves against COVID-19," Fiscus said in a scathing statement about her firing. "I have now been terminated for doing exactly that."

Tennessee's leaders have betrayed the public trust, Fiscus said, accusing them of putting their own political gains ahead of the people's well-being. She defended her colleagues in the health sector who have been fighting the pandemic  and she notably took umbrage that a lawmaker had called the state Department of Health's actions "reprehensible."

Fiscus said that "the 'leaders' of this state who have put their heads in the sand and denied the existence of COVID-19 or who thought they knew better than the scientists who have spent their lives working to prevent disease ... they are what is 'reprehensible.' I am ashamed of them. I am afraid for my state."

Because of the pushback from lawmakers, Fiscus said, Tennessee is halting all of its vaccination outreach efforts for teenagers and children  not only for COVID-19 but also for measles and other illnesses.
An invention attaches an old tractor tire to the bottom of a bale feeder to save the feeder from rust.
MONTICELLO, Ill. Kids are swimming, kayaking, doing archery, learning about science and all the fun things they always do at 4-H Memorial Camp in Monticello.

One big thing is different this year.

As part of the pandemic protocol, which was tighter in Illinois this winter when Andy Davis, University of Illinois Extension camp director was planning this years event, the camp is not just for kids.

Instead of bunking in the cabin with other kids, Mom, Dad and siblings hunker down together at night and enjoy activities together during the day.

Each family gets their own cabin during the three-day, two-night summer camp located at a lake and surrounded by trees.

All of the things that make camp great like outdoor adventures, hiking, boating, and swimming are just as fun socially distanced once we flipped to a family camp model, Davis said.

The camp organizers have held family camps before, so they knew how to run it.

The camp was closed in 2020. While minimal staff did repairs and maintenance, is was sad to see no campers, Davis said. Even though the camp is limited in size and arranged to suit pandemic protocol, it is alive with activity this year.

Only 15 families participate in each camp.

During this transitional pandemic year, there are also fewer camp weeks, fewer staff and fewer campers, but there is no shortage of fun and laughter. Even the odd scream can be heard as first-timers try out the zip line.

Were all super excited to be here, said Bethany Wood, the camps special programs director.
This has been a summer of legal surprises and important judicial decisions for agriculture. Kristine Tidgren, an attorney and the director of the Center for Agricultural Law and Taxation at Iowa State University, offers a rundown of what has happened and what it means for farmers. For more information look online at calt.iastate.edu.

Ethanol waivers

On June 25, the Supreme Court issued an opinion determining the availability of an extension to the small refinery hardship exemption. It was an interesting and unusual case. First, it was surprising that the court would take a case that was really looking at the definition of a single word (extension) in the statute. Its impactful because it opens the door for the EPA to grant exemptions but it doesnt guarantee those exemptions would be granted, so it still boils down to whether the Biden administration changes its approach.

This is an area of law with lots in flux. Just last Friday, the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals struck down a 2019 EPA rule that had allowed year-round sales of E15. The court said Congress had not granted the agency authority to make such a change.

Farm labor

The court looked at a rule in California that allowed union recruiters to come onto an agricultural employers property. This was a rule commonly attributed to Cesar Chavez and goes back to a time when migrant workers often lived on the farm. The employers argued that allowing union representatives on their property amounted to a taking, and that argument was ultimately successful with the court. It was a 6-3 ruling. The dissenters said it was not a straight-forward taking and made the point that the union should argue to provide compensation. Tidgren believes that was a really impactful case, especially in that part of the country.
Ruby Anne Murphy is only 3 months old and has spent most of that time in Phoenix Childrens 
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The second group of members from the Oklahoma Association of Student Councils (OASC) gathered on the Northwestern Oklahoma State University Alva campus for BASIC, a leadership workshop, July 11-16. Overall the university welcomed 231 high school students from across the state. Sixteen are high school graduates who came to Northwestern prior to the camp's start so they could prepare for their roles as junior counselors during the workshop.

Students attending for the week included high school sophomores, juniors and seniors. During the workshop, students were divided into 12 councils where they had to come up with a school name, mascot, colors and a school song and chant. Students in each council also were given real-life problems to solve and then act out their resolutions using skits. They also participated in breakout sessions that included leadership styles, team building, etiquette, school spirit and activities.

Junior counselors, members of OASC for July who have graduated high school, were assigned to each of the 12 councils. Those counselors included Noah Albert, Delaney Barghols, Andrew Celedron, Maggie Dansbury, Risa Fitter, Michael Forhan, Kami Fryer, Lisa Gouldsby, Jordyn Jastice, Constance Kettler, Madison Lake, Lucas Martinez, Madeline Mueller, Laurel Reesling, Brody Smith and Nadily Smith.

Students used various buildings around campus and stayed in university housing along with the directors: Karen Koehn of Alva, workshop director for junior counselors and state officers; Kristi Neerman of Tulsa, director of facilities; Martha Embry of Tulsa, director of curriculum and adult staff; and Janet Carter of Sulphur, director of registration.

Koehn added she is very thankful to Northwestern and the Alva community for their support in playing host to the event.

"Round two of OASC BASIC kicked off just as enthusiastically as our June session," Koehn said. "The difference our community makes in these young leaders will continue to serve our entire state. Thank you Alva for continuing to open your hearts to growing these leaders!"
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The Mossad is behind every attack against Iran, says former lawmaker
Lake Charles, Louisiana (70615)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms in the morning becoming more widespread in the afternoon. High 89F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms in the evening, then mainly cloudy overnight with thunderstorms likely. Low 74F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.
English rock band Pink Floyd released an album in 1979 entitled The Wall which explored abandonment and isolation, symbolized by a wall. Forty years later, these themes resonate with many in our post COVID world.

The Chinese coronavirus, and more so, the response by governments, the media, and the medical establishment, have isolated so many people from normal commerce and social activities of life. We were told to stay home, sheltering in place. Then Dr. Anthony Fauci, chief architect of the wall, told us, after first telling us that masks were unnecessary, to wear one, then two masks, hiding our faces and emotions from friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers.

Congregating in churches and other family events like weddings, funerals, and graduations was forbidden, and in some countries like Canada, still is. The hubbub of a busy restaurant was replaced by a handful of tables spaced so far apart that there might have been walls between tables.

A wall then grew between masked and unmasked, vaccinated and unvaccinated, those who believed government and media propaganda and those who actually tried to follow the science. The wall is now crushing children, one of the most vulnerable population groups, without the knowledge or voice to push back.

It is left to the few brave and outspoken adults left to speak for the children saying, as Pink Floyd did 40 years ago, Leave them kids alone! What have the media, CDC, and self-anointed experts like Dr. Fauci done to the kids?

Start with masks. A few weeks ago, published in JAMA Pediatrics, was a study looking at carbon dioxide content in inhaled air, with or without a face mask, in healthy children. For the follow the science crowd, this was a randomized, prospective clinical trial, the gold standard for research.

Children wearing surgical masks inhaled carbon dioxide at levels, Higher than what is already deemed unacceptable by the German Federal Environmental Office by a factor of 6. Kids reached this level of hypercapnia, not after a day in school with a mask, but after only 3 minutes. They found ample evidence for adverse effects of wearing such masks and suggested that decision-makers weigh the hard evidence produced by these experimental measurements accordingly, which suggest that children should not be forced to wear face masks.

YouTube screen grab

This was not Trump tweeting about masks but, instead, a proper clinical trial published in a prominent peer-reviewed medical journal. Did anyone in America read this European study?

Dr. Fauci, if he read the study, came to his own conclusion. During one of his many daily cable news appearances, rivaling in number only those of jailbird Michael Avenatti, he commanded,

Unvaccinated children of the certain age, greater than two years old, should be wearing masks. No doubt about that. Thats the way to protect them from getting infected because if they do, they can then spread the infection to someone else.

Despite the hypercapnia study results, children should remain masked until vaccinated, according to Dr. Fauci. How many of these children have already been exposed to COVID and now have antibodies, and immunity? Is anyone asking or even considering natural immunity, making this fear-mongering moot?

Can children even be vaccinated as Dr. Fauci demands? Actually no. The Pfizer vaccine is approved for 12 years and older, Moderna and Janssen 18 years and older.

He wants kids in school wearing masks, even toddlers not yet in school should be masked up. Good luck with that, especially on an airplane, where a two-year-old wont keep their mask on, resulting in the entire family being unceremoniously being kicked off the plane.

Are children super spreaders, as Dr. Fauci implies? One study from Israel found, Children and young people are less likely to catch COVID-19 and spread the virus to others compared to adults. A second review in the Archives of Disease in Childhood concluded, Children are not COVID-19 super spreaders: time to go back to school. A third study in the French Alps found that an infected child did not transmit the disease despite close interactions within schools.

Apparently, Dr. Fauci today disagrees with Dr. Fauci from January 2020 when he said,

Even if there is some asymptomatic transmission, in all the history of respiratory borne viruses of any type, asymptomatic transmission has never been the driver of outbreaks. The driver of outbreaks is always a symptomatic person even if there is a rare asymptomatic person that might transmit. An epidemic is not driven by asymptomatic carriers.

Yet Dr. Fauci wants children masked up or vaccinated, both unnecessary by his own statements. Time to say, Leave them kids alone!

What about the vaccines? There is a reason they are not yet approved for use in children, even under emergency use authorization. Their safety is still not confirmed.

There are stories like this Michigan 13-year-old boy who died in his sleep three days after getting his second vaccine dose. Or the CDC confirming, a month ago, 226 cases of myocarditis after COVID vaccination in those 30 years old and under. Or Medpage Today recommending, Based on the data to date, theres no compelling case for [COVID vaccine] right now for healthy kids.

Finally, the UKs vaccine advisory group, after looking at the first 12 months of their COVID experience, found the risk of children becoming seriously ill from COVID is extremely low, prompting this recommendation, Currently, under-18s are not routinely offered Covid vaccines, even if they have other underlying health conditions that put them at risk.

Perhaps with time and data, the science will lead to child vaccinations for COVID. Or perhaps not. So why the rush from Dr. Fauci, fanned on by the Biden administration and the media.

Even the FDA in their emergency use authorization document requires, The known and potential benefits of the productto treat the identified serious or life-threatening disease or condition, must outweigh the known and potential risks of the product.

Have we met that threshold? Is COVID in children serious or life-threatening enough to overcome the potential risks, known short term and unknown long term? Is the medical/government complex out over their skis on this one? Do they care?

Are children just collateral damage in the lefts quest for societal control? One only has to look at the robust abortion industry for an answer to that question. Are those pushing these draconian rules on children treating their own kids and grandkids this way? Or are those children in private schools, living and learning under a semblance of normality while the children of the masses suffer?

Hey government, leave them kids alone!

Brian C. Joondeph, M.D., is a physician and writer. He is on sabbatical from social media.

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Afghanistan, whose history can be traced back to around 500 BC and which has been ruled by various kingdoms and empires, has for long been a strategically important location, a gateway to India and close to the Silk Road that carried trade from the Mediterranean to China. No nation or ruler has ever unified the whole area, although the Soviet Union in the 20th century tried and failed to gain total control.

Afghanistan became significant for the U.S. in 2001 in response to the terrorist attacks of 9/11, which were planned and directed from Afghanistan. The terrorist group Al Qaeda led by Osama Bin Laden had become an important force in Afghanistan. It set up terrorist training camps, including experimenting with poison gas on dogs, recruited and trained about 20,000 jihadist volunteers from around the world, and directed the attacks in August 1998 on the U.S. embassies in Nairobi, Kenya, and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, killing 224 people. Al Qaeda was able to operate because it was protected by the Taliban government, which had gained control of the whole country in 1996. This group developed after the Soviet Union withdrew its troops in February 1989.

The Taliban refused the American request to expel Al Qaeda, and in October 2001 the U.S. and UK joined with the anti-Taliban Northern Alliance to eliminate the Taliban and Al Qaeda. Since then, the U.S. was militarily active; at its height, 110,000 U.S. troops were involved. The U.S. has suffered more than 22,000 military casualties, including 2,440 fatalities, and 3,800 private contractors killed, and has spent $144 billion for reconstruction and security in the area, and $815 billion on operational costs. Total U.S. expenses 2001-2019 were $2.26 trillion. Afghan personnel suffered most. Over 60,000 government security forces were killed and 100,000 civilians. Over the last twenty years, 150,000 UK forces served there, of whom 457 died. All British troops have now left the country.

After twenty years, the U.S. is withdrawing from the country with no claim of victory. One positive achievement can be claimed: Al Qaeda has been reduced in significance as a terrorist threat. No successful international terrorist attack has been planned from Afghanistan since 9/11. On the other hand, Al Qaeda, the Islamic State, and other terrorist groups still remain in varying numbers. The Afghan civil war probably will become more intense. The Taliban in July 2021, determined to eradicate Western influence, though no direct threat to the U.S. or NATO, is in control of over half of the country and has the momentum.

As a result of 9/11, President George W. Bush in April 2002 asserted that peace in Afghanistan would be achieved by helping Afghanistan develop a stable government. Afghanistan, he said, was the ultimate nation-building mission but he acknowledged that our government was not prepared for nation building. The U.S. mission for the last twenty years has been more limited. President Donald J. Trump declared in May 2016 that were getting out of the nation building business. In February 2020 the Trump Administration issued a joint declaration, the Doha deal, with the Taliban to work together to reach a comprehensible peace agreement for the benefit of all Afghans and contribute to regional stability and global security. This would include preventing the use of Afghan soil by any international terrorist groups or individuals active against the security of the U.S. and its allies; withdrawal of all troops; a political settlement and a comprehensive ceasefire.

Biden declared that the U.S. military mission would end by September 11, 2021, arguing that the U.S. had achieved its objectives set out two decades ago. The Biden argument is We did not go to Afghanistan to nation build. He asserted that the U.S. did not win, but it created some stability and checked the Taliban. There is no longer any reason for U.S. forces to remain. The Biden policy appears to be a move to withdraw all forces without conditions, a departure from the Trump policy, and may hamper peace talks between the Afghans.

The U.S., UK, and other countries have helped Afghan development; military security forces of army and police; governmental institutions, advances in human rights, womens rights, and free press, broadcast and social media, health care, education. But the Western countries have been unable to get the two Afghan sides to agree to a peace settlement. The country is unstable economically and politically, and for survival requires support from the international community.

For the U.S. and the UK, the pressing political factor was troop withdrawal. On July 12, 2021, the senior U.S, commander in Afghanistan resigned his position, symbolizing the end of the U.S. role in the Afghan war. It remains unclear how the U.S. will continue to support Afghan government forces to counter the aggression of the Taliban.

Questions remain over the correctness and consequences of U.S. and UK withdrawal. The U.S. is unlikely to alter the political and military dynamics of the region.

The main interest for the U.S. since 9/11 has been to prevent terrorist attacks planned from Afghanistan. Al Qaeda has been hurt, but Islamist terrorists remain in Afghanistan as well as in Somalia, Mali, and parts of the Sahel. Will the withdrawal of all troops affect the role of the U.S. as a global power, or diminish its international credibility? Was the human cost and financial expenditures worth the U.S. intervention? Can the Afghan government counter the Taliban in what is an existential fight?

The country is politically unstable, with corrupt political elites as well as extreme poverty. The Taliban has already been gaining control of an increasing number of the 400 districts in the country. It has begun to collect customs revenue, especially near the border with Tajikstan.

The Taliban insurgency will grow, even if government capitulation is not inevitable. Moreover, the Taliban has not ended its links, including family ties, with Al Qaeda.

Another problem is that the Doha agreement between the U.S, and the Taliban will be scrapped if the U.S. and NATO forces stay beyond the withdrawal deadline. NATO is likely to continue its mission of training security forces in Afghanistan. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has announced that our presence in Afghanistan is condition-based and the Taliban has to meet their commitments ...we will only leave when the time is right and the focus is on how we can support the peace talks. Similarly, the U.S. Congress has also recommended extending the deadline, holding that withdrawal should not be based on an inflexible timeline, but on fulfillment of commitments to peace by all parties, and that the U.S. should not simply hand victory to the Taliban.

The Taliban insurgency is likely to cause a new migration wave from the East, people fleeing from the Taliban. The problem will worsen after Pakistans decision to close a major border crossing with Afghanistan, citing the pandemic as the reason. Afghans are already immigrating illegally to Lithuania.

There is no easy solution for the U.S. or the democratic West in the Afghanistan imbroglio. At a minimum the U.S. should base its policy on two factors: it should insist on the Doha process with the Taliban to prevent the return of Al Qaeda, and it should support and assist the continuing talks in Doha between the Afghan government and the Taliban to bring about stability if peace cannot be achieved.

Image: Public Domain Pictures

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The first thing I learned at Army Officer Candidate School is that all officers have two primary duties: accomplish the assigned mission and take care of the men ('men' is an all-inclusive term that includes women). I didn't rise to the rank of general, nor did I go to West Point. Those people may have been taught something different, but I doubt it (West Point grads and/or General Officers, correct me if I'm wrong).

Assuming I'm correct, consider General Mark Milley's performance on 30 June before a House Armed Services Committee hearing to discuss the 2022 Defense Department budget. General Milley, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the highest-ranking and most senior military officer in the United States, when considering his first duty, must have assigned himself the mission: 'look woke during testimony.' On that, I rate him a 10 of 10. He succeeded.

But I rate his accomplishment of the second duty a 0 of 10.

During testimony, Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla) asked Milley about the teaching of Critical Race Theory in the U.S. military. In an effort (in my opinion) to divert attention from CRT, Milley responded, "I've read Mao Zedong. I've read Karl Marx. I've read Lenin. That doesn't make me a communist."

Milley, a college graduate ( West Point Princeton is a college), was trained to reason abstractly, can therefore realize and understand the dangers, consequences, and ultimate outcomes of communism. Why is that important? Patience.

Milley said, "I personally find it offensive that we are accusing the United States military, our general officers, our noncommissioned officers [NCOs], of being 'woke' or something else because we are studying some theories that are out there."

Milley specified general officers (I think he meant all officers since O-1 through O-6 are not general officers) and NCOs (E-5 through E-9). I omitted O-1 through O-10 and E-5 through E-9, focused on ranks E-1 through E-4. They comprise 55.9% of Army enlisted personnel. There is no requirement for a college degree or even a high school diploma for entry into the military. The only requirement is to be 18 years of age (17 with parental permission). These young men and women, the majority of the enlisted, have, as the late, great Rush Limbaugh said, "little skulls full of mush," meaning they are incapable of abstract reasoning because of lack of training. The military recognized this in 2014, instituted an 'up or out' program where "[y]ounger soldiers [are] expected to move up or out faster to get rid of rules that 'perpetuate mediocrity.'" It discharges soldiers who will never be able to eventually reason abstractly.

General Milley asked, "So what is wrong with understanding -- having some situational understanding about the country for which we are here to defend?"

Here's what's wrong. General Milley knows, I am certain, of the 'chain of command.' It is a line of communication from the most recently inducted soldiers to General Milley himself. But soldiers cannot effectively use it because they were not trained to reason abstractly. They are not capable of making the intellectual leap from extremism, about which they were (more or less) trained, to understanding what Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin specified in his memo: "We will not tolerate actions that go against the fundamental principles of the oath we share, including actions associated with extremist or dissident ideologies." Or of making the intellectual leap, therefore understanding, any other theories out there.

Austin, on February 5th, directed military leaders to conduct training by the first week of April to discuss what extremism is and how and when to report it. This standdown took place across the world for all branches of the military. It got mixed reviews. Some examples of this 'typical' military training follow:

Soldiers expressed frustration at 'check-the-blocks' training led by military personnel unprepared to answer questions about what activities constitute extremism.

A staff sergeant (an NCO who, according to Milley, is capable of abstract reasoning) said the training needed more real discussion about extremism. "You had a few people who were very loud and boisterous about their opinion, but then the [attitude of a] majority of people was, 'This was a waste of time.'"

Another sergeant said his training focused upon Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention training, or SHARP, as well as Equal Opportunity training, which is designed to prohibit discrimination. "It kind of felt like they were trying to pack in all of the mandated trainings in at once. A lot of people were like, 'What was the point of this?'"

A sergeant first class who led an extremism training class asked soldiers to identify the warning signs of extremism after each case study. "That was the frustrating part because there really were no warning signs [in the case studies]." He continued, "The bulk of the training focused on the examples, defining extremism and reporting extremist behavior, and the rest was giving 'proof that it exists.' The case studies were blatant examples of extremism, like a terrorist attack. Not addressed were less-obvious 'gray areas' for officers to figure out on their own. I would have preferred a clear list of examples with action items." That sentiment was shared by others.

The concept of 'death by PowerPoint' (which refers to canned, boring training) was expressed by Army personnel of all ranks after their training. Outside experts were seldom there to help facilitate the discussions, which left trainers without any subject matter expertise.

The soldiers were 'trained' on the nebulous concept of extremism rather than the process of abstract reasoning so they could understand. Remember at whom the training was aimed: E-1 through E-4. They seldom if ever question their supervisors (officers and NCOs), thereby ensuring desired outcomes. Can anyone say 'intimidation?'

So where are we? Soldiers were not trained to reason so that they could understand the actual nature and characteristics of political extremism. The sad thing is General Milley probably knew this but went ahead anyway with his remarks.

Correction: This article incorrectly identified Milley as a West Point graduate. He attended Princeton for his undergraduate degree.

Image: West Point

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Over the past weekend, we saw Cubans protesting Communism and calling for "libertad" in Havana. As I recall similar protests in Hong Kong and Beijing, the answer seems obvious to me. Let's offer a swap. Let the freedom-lovers come here, and let the wannabe Marxists in our country leave for the "workers' paradises" of Cuba, China, and North Korea.

The wannabe Marxists in this country are so unhappy. They see our nation as broken beyond repair. The ideas in their minds convince them that "they can make communism work" where others have failed. Instead, let them migrate to lands compatible with their politics.

Maybe they can make communism work in those places, but I doubt it. Instead of moaning endlessly about the fatal flaws of freedom here in America, let our Marxist "control freaks" go to places where the Marxist elites control everything. Were there ever two groups of "like-minded" people who deserve each other more?

Here in America, we'd have to cope with some changes once our Marxists leave. Since many American Marxists occupy leadership roles in American public schools and universities, significant vacancies would develop. Could America survive without our leftist educators? I think we could. It would be an adjustment, but I suspect we would thrive without our leftist educators.

Many other closet Marxists occupy places in the federal civil service. Their departure would cause brief disruptions of service. When they are replaced, however, by freedom-loving Americans, the federal civil service will once again be public servants instead of "useful idiots" secretly advancing Marxism.

Even though the leftist extremists in America control most of the news, they are having a hard time explaining the visuals coming out of Cuba, China, and North Korea. Are people sneaking into Cuba, China, and North Korea? If not, why not? In China, we see the communists doing all they can to control their people. People yearn for freedom.

Freedom and hope for a better life are the reasons why people are still trying to get into America. Do we have problems? Sure, but we also have a history of facing down our problems and dealing with them.

As I write this, I suspect that many of the American Marxists who leave for those "workers' paradises" in Cuba, China, and North Korea will quickly discover in their new homes that freedom was not as bad as they thought. If these prodigal Americans want to come home after tasting communism, should we allow them to return? I say yes, but will their new masters allow them the freedom to return? Freedom says "yes," but communism says "no."

Image: Democratic Socialists of America by Cory Doctorow. CC BY-SA 2.0.\

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President Biden's July 13 speech in Philadelphia to denounce current Republican attempts nationwide to restore election integrity was an angry, nonstop vomitus of lies and hysteria.

He began though with yet another Creepy Joe moment (it would hardly be a Biden speaking event without one):

0:17  Mr. Mayor (of Philadelphia), I uh I've I've compli  I'm thought you're a great mayor, still think you are, but your judgment in fiancees is even stronger, and your juh and uh, but but all of you

Biden committed yet another numbers (and syntactical) gaffe:

4:06  As a result, in two thousand and twenty, more people voted America than everAll told, more than a hundred fifty (150) Americans, of every age, of every race, of every background, exercise their right to vote (in 2020)

Biden enunciated (if that's the right word) several other amusing Bidenisms:

8:03  Denying women the right to vote until the 19th Amendment a hundred years ago, to poll taxes and literacy tests and the Ku Kluck Kan campaigns of violence and terror

15:08  Stum le some lesh state legislators, want to make it harder, for you to vote

16:34  Which bring me p'raps the most important thing we have to do. We have to for forge a coralition

19:34  Whether it's stopping foreign interference our elections or dispredit misinformation from within

More important than Bidenisms was his great cascade of lies. At the 4:48 mark, Biden made a long, hysterical attack on all those who challenged the 2020 elections results, including this falsehood:

More than 80 judges, including those appointed by my predecessor, heard the arguments.

No they did not. That is a lie. Those cases were dismissed without hearing on procedural grounds. No hearings on the merits were held.

At the 13:01 mark, Biden slandered the State of Texas:

13:01  In Texas, for example, Republican-led state legislature wants to allow partisan poll watchers, to intimidate votes, and imperil ana ana impartial, uh, poll workers. They want voters to dive further

How do voters "dive farther"? And how does one "intimidate votes"? Well  obviously Biden meant that Texas seeks to intimates voters. And that is a lie.

But here I want to focus on Biden's amazing claim that there is a new Republican plot and proposal to allow state legislatures a power to set aside a given state's popular vote for president and designate any electors those legislatures see fit.

17:07  You vote for certain Electors to vote for somebody for President. State legislature comes along under their proposal 

(What "state legislature"? What "proposal"? There is none. It's another lie.)

 And they say, no, we don't like those Electors; we're gonna point other Electors; we're gonna vote for the other guy, or woman

FACT CHECK TIME: The "proposal" that he is talking about is nothing new. There is no new "proposal." Instead, the proposal is as old as the U.S. Constitution. In fact, it is the U.S. Constitution  which gives state legislatures plenary power to designate any electors they damned well please to designate.

In fact  and this may surprise Democrats  there actually is no provision at all in the Constitution for any kind of popular election of the president.

For all the difference it makes to the Constitution, states need not even bother to have statewide presidential preference plebiscites. They can appoint their electors with no popular election at all.

Here is the Constitution's governing language:

Article II Section 1 The executive Power shall be vested in a President of the United States of America. He shall hold his Office during the Term of four Years, and, together with the Vice President, chosen for the same Term, be elected, as follows: Each State shall appoint, in such Manner as the Legislature thereof may direct, a Number of Electors, equal to the whole Number of Senators and Representatives to which the State may be entitled in the Congress: but no Senator or Representative, or Person holding an Office of Trust or Profit under the United States, shall be appointed an Elector. The Electors shall meet in their respective States, and vote by Ballot for two Persons, of whom one at least shall not be an Inhabitant of the same State with themselves. And they shall make a List of all the Persons voted for, and of the Number of Votes for each; which List they shall sign and certify, and transmit sealed to the Seat of the Government of the United States, directed to the President of the Senate.

Nothing new here. Nothing there requiring state legislatures to follow the will of a majority of presidential voters. Nothing there even requiring given states to have any presidential popular vote elections at all.

It's all in the Constitution. And Biden and his handlers made up all of their false claims.

Photo credit: YouTube screen grab, cropped.

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Legions of the conservative viewers who made Fox News the number-one cable news channel celebrated when Shepard Smith departed its lineup in 2019. According to the Daily Beast in 2019, he ditched his $15-million salary in the middle of a three-year contract because of criticism from higher-rated conservatives at Fox, including Tucker Carlson and Sean Hannity. I had come to the point where I switched channels when he came on because his snarky anti-conservative commentary was unbearable.

Smith took his time returning to the TV news business, and according to this Daily Beast story yesterday, he was in discussion with a number of other broadcasters including CBS before finally landing a job with CNBC, the business news channel owned by Comcast, reportedly receiving $5 to 6 million a year. Interestingly, this Beast article pegged his Fox salary at $30 million. Either estimate would mean Smith is paying a high price for avoiding criticism from colleagues.

The Beast writers hilariously describe Smith as "[a] traditional broadcast anchor with little appetite for the partisan or ideological programming," given how often he made nasty comments about then-president Trump. But it does tell us a lot about the ideological blinders worn by leftists in the agitprop media.

But even with a big salary cut, it looks as though Smith has turned out to be no bargain for his new employers at the Comcast subsidiary. His ratings have tanked, he doesn't get along with his new colleagues, and he is unhappy.

Whether it's a poor time slot, behind-the-scenes squabbles, an outdated news format, a slower post-Trump news cycle, or just a once-popular anchor taking his frustrations out on staffers, CNBC insiders have a lot of reasons for why Shepard Smith's show has failed to capture major ratings. But one thing many agree on is that it has not met the bosses' expectations. (snip) Smith's salary and the resources Hoffman has thrown at his show have created a tremendous amount of resentment from other CNBC talent, according to multiple insiders familiar with the situation.

The P.R. people at CNBC have a different spin, of course:

"It's been less than a year since we launched The News with Shepard Smith and we are incredibly proud of the high quality journalism and powerful storytelling the team produces every week night," a CNBC spokesman told The Daily Beast. "While news viewers' habits take time to change, The News has far outperformed in the 7pm timeslot from the same time period in 2020 and in June, viewers watched 7.2 million hours across TV, digital and social platforms, which was double-digit percentage growth month-over-month."

Given that there were 22 weekdays (MF) in June, that works out to 327,000 full hours of viewing per day, compared to Hannity's and Carlson's multimillion viewers per day over at Fox News. And the CNBC figures must include a lot of online viewership because Nielson Media Research says his show "averaged just 197,000 total viewers in June, losing a third of its viewers since the show's peak in February."



Smith interviews White House press secretary Psaki (YouTube screen grab).

Smith's poor ratings are not due to lack of investment by his new net:

The network built its star a new studio at CNBC headquarters in New Jersey and shelled out more money to build a separate one at Smith's palatial Hamptons home owing to the pandemic, according to the people familiar with the situation. The show staffed up with some of Smith's former Fox News colleagues, as well as CNBC veterans, almost all of whom worked quickly to launch the show before the 2020 election in the hopes of capitalizing on some of the increased news viewership around the historic race. But the viewers never seemed to show up.

There are a lot of unhappy campers, evidently including Smith:

[A]mid a wider re-evaluation of bullying in media workplaces, some staffers have complained that he is difficult to deal with. At least two people with direct knowledge of the situation described Smith as having regular "temper tantrums." When CNBC announced Smith was joining the business news channel, it tapped Sandy Cannold, a veteran TV producer, to help helm the show along with co-executive producer Sally Ramirez, a veteran of local television. But according to multiple people familiar with the matter, Cannold departed less than six months in, and clashed at times with Smith in front of staff. Other employees were also frustrated when, in recent weeks, the show laid off two of the few non-white employees on its production team.

I would say CNBC's parent Comcast and Smith deserve each other. Like the rest of the agitprop media, they force-feed leftism to a public that is less and less eager to buy what they are selling.
CNN is all in on forcing Americans to receive experimental drugs, cozying up to a violation of the Nuremberg Code, featuring several "medical analysts" calling for mandatory coronavirus vaccinations.

CNN's own medical analyst, Dr. Jonathan Reiner, told host Erin Burnett, "I do think it's time to start mandating vaccines. And I think that private industry and private organizations will do that." Reiner added, "75 million adults have chosen to not get vaccinated, and that choice has consequences. Now, we can't force you to take a jab in the arm but there are many jobs perhaps that can prevent you from working if you decide not to get vaccinated." ("Arbeit macht frei"...unless you are unvaccinated?)

Leana Wen, the former president of Planned Parenthood, also recently appeared on the flagging network to say unvaccinated Americans should be subjected to more draconian restrictions. Wen is on the record as stating that businesses should be allowed to return to full capacity only if "they are checking for proof of vaccination." Except in the case of illegal aliens undocumented workers, I'm sure. Does she think businesses should be forced to check for proof that their employees and customers are AIDS-free as well? And that they have had their measles shots, "regular" flu vaccines, etc.? If not, why? (If not Wen, does the WHO?)

During her CNN appearance, Wen bemoaned the fact that "it's easy if you're unvaccinated, you can do everything you want to do anyway." She recently wrote an op-ed in the Washington Post in which she said President Biden should have instituted a national vaccine mandate and chided him for failing to use the White House Independence Day event to tell folks that choosing whether or not to get vaccinated is not an "individual decision."

That's interesting. So Wen believes that what happens to your body is not up to you, but is really the government's bailiwick? Goodbye, America. Hello, Chinese Communist Partystyle totalitarianism. This is particularly preposterous coming from the erstwhile head of an organization that strongly supported the mantras "my body, my choice" and "keep the government out of our bedrooms."

Wen opined that if people wanted to opt out of the vaccinations, they should be forced to "sign these forms" and get "twice weekly testing."

"It needs to be hard for people to remain unvaccinated," she stated.

Since when is it the American government's job to selectively make life harder for some of its citizens? Who decided the whole "life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness" thing was a relic of the white male patriarchy that should be expunged with all due haste? Why, Wen, should we appropriate the un-representative forms of government that so many other nations have used to brutalize their peoples throughout history?

(When I was younger, my parents used to take me to a theme park where hens, ducks, and gerbils were kept in glass-enclosed cages. If they performed the "correct" action or made the "right" choice from among several options, they were "rewarded" with a bit of food. Kind of like the current Chinese social score system. That isn't "right" for the hens, ducks, and gerbils, let alone for human beings.)

Conversely, Wen averred that government needs to inform Americans, "If you are vaccinated, you can do all these things. Here are all these freedoms that you have." Yes, if you do as the government tells you to, the government will allow you some freedoms! Isn't that great, fellow hens, ducks, and gerbils?

It saddens me to no end to think that many Americans now have to be reminded that our freedoms don't come from others; they come from God. If they didn't, then people like Leana Wen and Dr. Fauci could tell the rest of us what freedoms we do or don't have.

So, yes, Wen and Reiner, let's mandate vaccinations against COVID-19. Let's mandate vaccine passports and proofs of vaccination. Let's also make opting for abortion legal through the third trimester. But let's prohibit polling places from requiring any form of ID to vote in American presidential elections.

Maybe one day someone will develop a vaccine against idiocy, hypocrisy, bullying, evil.

Maybe I will then assert that those vaccinations should be mandatory.

Democrats, "experts," and their sycophants in Big Business, Tech, Academia, and Media would go crazy, shouting, "How dare this bigoted, radical, right-wing fascist try to impose his will on the rest of us? It's our body, our choice!"

Point proven.

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"Just look out the window. See those wires? That's where electricity comes from."

"But how does it get into the wires?"

"At the other end of the wires, there's sort of a factory that has machines that make electricity. The machines are driven by steam turbines. The steam is made by burning natural gas or coal and sometimes the heat from small atomic bombs."

"Oh! I get it."

Ironically, as carbon-based energy is being hysterically blamed for the impending destruction of the Earth, schemes to put much more demand on the electrical grid abound. Meanwhile, last December, the CEO of Toyota Motors publicly claimed that there is not nearly enough electrical generation capacity available to significantly increase the number of all-electric automobiles:

"Progressive" communities such as Berkeley, CA have gone so far as to outlaw all new natural gas connections. Fortunately for the world, there's not a lot of new construction going on in Berkeley (go figure). But imagine the use of electricity to cook, heat water, and maintain comfort in the winter...rather than the much more efficient natural gas. Electricity is mostly made from natural gas, and it tends to lose some of its oomph as it travels through wires...whereas gas loses nothing as it travels through its pipe.

What about wind and solar? The chart below breaks down all sources of electricity and their percentage of the whole:

Bottom line: Solar is insignificant, whereas wind produces slightly more juice than hydro.

One particular problem with electricity is storage. Batteries work, but not with great efficiency. They also wear out, and the newfangled lithium batteries are largely a toxic nightmare. "Hydroelectric pumped storage" describes utilities that pump water uphill to a storage pond during "off-peak" periods...and then release the pumped water back downhill to run a turbine during the next peak demand period. Implied in all of this is that electrical demand varies throughout the day...with slack demand occurring during the wee small hours of the night and peak demand during the middle of the business day. This is particularly significant in warm climates while the A.C. is humming. To further deal with this problem, utilities have set up "peakers"...small generating stations close to areas of high electrical consumption. These are typically natural gas turbines similar to jet engines that automatically fire up when the grid is challenged.

Electricity first became an important commodity with the invention of the telegraph. Telecommunication is particularly valuable. Beyond his code, which anybody could've figured out, Morse invented the relay. A dot-and-dash signal traveling through a wire lost strength over distance. The relay is essentially a robot that automatically re-transmits the signal, thus allowing indefinite distances to be covered effectively as long as a source for new electricity was present at each relay station. Originally, since mechanical generation of electricity was not ready for commercial use, chemical cells were the source. The value of this development goes back to the Battle of New Orleans in 1814, in which the British forces suffered one of their greatest defeats. The Treaty of Ghent, ending the U.S.-British War of 1812, had already been signed...but the news had yet to travel by ship across the Atlantic for the troops on the ground to find out.

Periodic droughts affecting heavily populated coastal areas present a particularly significant potential for increased demand on the electrical grid: energy to be used for desalination. The desalination plant in Carlsbad, CA is situated right next to an electrical generating facility. The process involves reverse osmosis, which consumes lots of electricity. Ironically, the plant was built by an Israeli company  and electricity is actually cheaper in Israel than in resource-rich California. Meanwhile, most automobiles run on energy-dense gasoline, and the propagation of electric vehicles would put considerable stress on the grid just to perform a function that is already being effectively handled by other means.

Image: Light bulb goes off by WolfBlur via Pixabay, Pixabay License.

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The United States was founded on several principles that help make our nation free. One of the most important principles that we hold as a nation is that we have an inherent right to speak freely in public forums, a right enshrined in the First Amendment. The amendment protects all legal speech, especially political speech. Citizens and politicians alike share this freedom because it is essential for a functioning democracy. However, twice in our history, presidents were silenced for voicing their views on political matters.

John Quincy Adams and Donald Trump share a peculiar similarity. They were the only American presidents whom the political opposition censored. After Adams left office in 1829, he successfully ran for the House of Representatives in 1830.

While in Congress, Adams fiercely opposed slavery, an issue that eventually seemed to become intertwined with every issue America faced. Like his father, John Adams, Adams believed that slavery was an evil practice, and he regularly spoke out against it.

In 1836, Southern congressional Democrats passed a rule banning all speech related to slavery in front of the House. In the wake of this rule, Adams asked, "Am I gagged or am I not?" The gag rule stayed in effect until 1844 when Adams passed a motion to rescind this ruling.

Similarly, Trump has been censored by the immensely powerful pro-Democrat and pro-Chinese social media. After Biden was declared the victor in the 2020 presidential election, many in the mainstream media and social media asserted that anyone who questioned the outcome of the election was a threat to democracy.

Those who noted several unusual things about the election had to be silenced. Social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter removed actual evidence of voter fraud from their platforms. YouTube deleted videos showing anything that challenged the election (e.g., poll-watchers being locked out of voting areas and poll-watchers filling out voting cards). Videos that stayed up were "fact-checked." The "fact-checkers" relentlessly claimed that this was a fair election.

In the lead-up to the Senate's certifying the election, President Trump called on his supporters to peacefully protest the results of the election. When the Senate met to certify the vote on January 6, the Capitol Police let Trump supporters into the Capitol. At the end of the day, a federal employee had murdered Ashli Babbitt, and multiple police officers had been injured.

The left and mainstream media spun this event as an insurrection with Trump blamed for inciting the violence. Congress impeached him, and Twitter, Facebook, and several other social media websites removed him from their platforms. Since then, Democrats in politics and the media have spun the "insurrection" as the most violent attack in America since 9/11 or even the Civil War, despite a summer of violence by leftist groups.

Since his ban, Trump has relied on statements from his office, interviews, and Rumble to reach the public. This significantly diminished his reach. Like Adams, Trump was gagged. Trump is no longer able to share his views on major political issues as he once did. When he was on Twitter, he was able to communicate instantly with his followers. He reached billions of people in a few minutes. Now far fewer people read his statements.

As in 1836, political opponents silenced a former president from speaking in a public space. These leaders were gagged because of their political views. By censoring these leaders, their followers were also silenced. In both cases, this censorship escalated political division.

Trump recently sued Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and their CEOs. Because the defendants haven't even answered, we don't yet know what effect this lawsuit will have or even if the courts will allow it to go forward.

Near the end of his life and while still in Congress, Adams gave one of the most famous speeches of his political career. Speaking to Congress, he said the federal government  indeed, the president  must emancipate slaves. Otherwise, he predicted a bloody civil war pitting north against south. Representative Abraham Lincoln heard the speech, which inspired his Emancipation Proclamation.

We are currently at another crossroads as a country. Will we continue to allow social media platforms to censor speech? Will half the country continue to be gagged? Leaving this issue unaddressed can lead to our republic's destruction. Wise leaders will act now.

A free society requires the free exchange of ideas. Because social media positioned itself as the new public square, people must be able to voice their political views without fear of being banned. Ideas should be debated to determine which ones prevail. Without free speech, it is impossible to have a free society.

As a society founded on the principles of freedom, let's hope we can return to a day when people are freely able to voice their views.

Edward Kennelly is a graduate student at the University of Memphis studying public administration. He will be starting law school in the fall. He has worked on several statewide and local races. His works appear in the California Political Review and Citizens Journal. He hopes to continue working in politics.

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So are the rats fleeing the ship in Cuba?

It's always a bad sign when the elites start resigning during times of crisis, as if to get out early to save their skins. There's more than one now as Cuba erupts into protests and calls to end the communist dictatorship, so it's getting to be a pattern.

So here we got one report of a resignation of one of the regime's thuggier members, Cubas Deputy Minister of the Interior, Brigadier General Jesus Manuel Buron Tabit, according to top Cuba expert Carlos Eire, writing at the indispensible Babalu blog.

Eire has a loose translation of the news from ABC Spain:

Cubas Deputy Minister of the Interior, Brigadier General Jesus Manuel Buron Tabit, has resigned after questioning decision-making within the ministry and the Security Council, as well as the excessive use of police force to repress the demonstrations of 11 July, the day that began the wave of protests that spread throughout the island, as ABC has learned from sources close to the regime.

That's one of guys in charge of torture and internal spying. Based on his official photo, he looks like the kind of guy you wouldn't want to meet while chained in some Castroite dungeon:

But he's the guy who, after a career as a top Cuban internal security official, reportedly felt the government was going too hard on the protestors.

According to ABC of Spain (Google translate has some faultiness here, but you can get the gist):

His departure is motivated by disagreements with other commanders, differences with respect to the measures taken during the protests last weekend. "There is trouble within the Army and differences between the military of the old guard and young generals," say the sources consulted by this newspaper. The news would also have been confirmed by the analyst and writer Juan Juan Almeida in his program Juan Juan Al medio. According to Almeida, the also member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of Cuba, requested his resignation in the lobby of building A of the Ministry of the Interior. His words when he left office were: "Applying the law with strict adherence to it does not mean murder," said Juan Juan.

Maybe it's true, as the information about this blotting-paper-face apparachik is sparse.

It's also interesting that the Cuban government has denied the report, calling it "fake news." Perhaps that is true, too, given this guy's record. Or perhaps they forced him to "un-resign."

But after searching who this Castroite apparachik was over the years, it's likely he wasn't all that happy with the current Castroite government, so maybe he did want to quit, although there are reasons to think he didn't, as well.

Based on his career, before the uprising, he was doing things like this, as described by Juventud Rebelde, a Cuban state organ
President Biden inflames political debate to demagogic levels by equating reasonable legislation to ensure the integrity of the ballot box to Jim Crow (white supremacist) laws, and all The Wall Street Journal can do is call Biden's invidious comment "partisan rhetoric ... detached from facts."

Hasn't the Journal the capacity for outrage when Biden and the totalitarian-minded left resorts to the most vicious demagoguery that is millions of light-years "detached from facts"? The Journal did write, in the penultimate paragraph of its July 14 lead editorial, "Joe Biden, Jim Crow and Texas": "But Mr. Biden is distorting the truth to justify congressional passage of H.R. 1, a constitutionally dubious takeover of voting rules in all 50 states." Couldn't the Journal have inserted, at the very least in this editorial, the words "false claims"?

Yet that same day, July 14, that the Journal replied in the most tepid manner to outrageous comments from Biden and the no less outrageous action by Texas Democrats (imitating Wisconsin Democrats in the days of Gov. Scott Walker) in fleeing the state to prevent the enactment of voting law reforms, the Journal, in a second editorial, "Virginia GOP's Embarrassing Inquisition," came down hard on Virginia Republicans for complaining in a letter to University of Virginia president James E. Ryan (not named in the editorial) about tweets from Prof. Larry J. Sabato, chair of the school's Center for Politics, that employ what the Journal called "mostly typical Democratic invective."

Here is the example of Sabato's "typical Democratic invective" quoted by the Journal: "Trump who governed on the edge of insanity for four long years has gone over the edge. Yet million so of people and 90%+ of GOP members of Congress, still genuflect before this false god."

The Journal has difficulty with the "investigation" sought by the Virginia GOP as to whether the professor's "public display of bitter partisanship" broke university rules  presumably on fair comment and ethics. New York Times v. Sullivan stands for the principle of "robust" free speech, and Prof. Sabato is certainly "robust" in his denunciations of Donald J. Trump  but doesn't the Virginia GOP have a right to complain to the president of the University of Virginia about the professor's "outlandish" attacks on Mr. Trump? Has The Wall Street Journal no words to condemn the vilest demagoguery of Larry Sabato?

Or does the editorial board of The Wall Street Journal agree with the director of the University of Virginia Center of Politics that Donald J. Trump is insane and, in the manner of Caligula, arrogated to himself the aura of a divinity? Where are the words "Sabato's false claims" in this Journal editorial? Nowhere to be read.

Prof. Sabato is identified by the Journal as founder, as well as director, of the UVA Center of Politics. However "robust" the speech we tolerate (except when expressed by Republicans, conservatives, or Trumpists), is it seemly for the head of a university politics center to speak in the foulest of demagogic  and false  language? What example does this set for UVA students  other than to imitate the language of "typical Democratic invective"? How does such "invective" serve the national interest in reasoned political debate leading to wide consensus on public issues of great moment?

Here is another example of "Democratic invective" from the Journal's July 14 lead editorial on the president's casual use of the "Jim Crow" term to disparage Republicans, in the context of discussing the flight of Texas Democrat out of the Lone Star State to prevent the enactment of voting law reform by preventing a quorum in the Legislature: "'I left because I am tired of sitting as a hostage,' one lawmaker told the awaiting press at Dulles [Washington, D.C.] airport, 'while Republicans strip away the rights of my constituents to vote.'" Where are the words "baseless claims" to blast away at such an utter falsehood?

It is in the following paragraph that the Journal, tepidly, commented: "This partisan rhetoric is detached from the facts." Such "rhetoric" is so antithetical to reality as to fall to the level of Orwellian comment. Such comment demands the application of the sunlight of truth to serve as a disinfectant, per an observation of Louis Dembitz Brandeis in a 1913 Harper's Weekly article, prior to serving on the United States Supreme Court.

The Journal stated, in the concluding paragraph of the editorial on Biden's malicious use of the term "Jim Crow":

Before Democrats hail quorum breaking as heroism, they might recall that they are trying to pass the most radical agenda in decades with the narrowest majorities in decades. Who's really undermining democracy?

Of course, it is the Democrats who sought to undermine democracy while Mr. Trump was in the White House, and they are continuing their quest for totalitarian rule with Biden as president. And, yes, the Journal concluded its July 14 lead editorial with an oblique dig at the Democrats, but understatement is hardly effective against "Democratic invective." Opposition to the vilest sort of demagoguery that is typical Democrat speech must be shouted from the rooftops.

Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0.

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We live in an age of both public and private tyranny. Self-determined parameters no longer define our lives. We used to feel secure, with family, friends, work, and shared histories and beliefs. Now artificial constraints are imposed from all sides, with fancy names endorsing "diversity and inclusion" and decrying "unconscious bias." We all know that these phrases are false and vacuous. Diversity blatantly excludes conservatives, and bias against them is the norm.

These constructs serve to divide us into those who see what's happening with alacrity; the seemingly willfully blind, who just don't seem to care about their hypocrisy; and those who want to make their name and fortune by fixing your erroneous thoughts.

The Biden administration wants to spy on us, even reading our texts. Bidenistas want friends and relatives to tattle on us, too.

With COVID as the excuse, we must struggle against the absurd strictures to our movement and livelihood. We are told we are disloyal Americans if we don't want to be vaccinated with an unproven substance (and one that's killed more people recently than the virus itself), and we're kept from hearing any of the truth about either virus or vaccines, "for our own good." At work or school, we're no longer free to express ourselves; instead, we are subjected to woke ideology and demands for groupthink at every turn. We wonder, indeed, at our receding memory of a free society, one we lived in until recently. How did we lose it?

As a concrete example, corporate entities have publicly bowed to wokeness. If you scroll down to the end of this CEO pledge to "diversity," you'll notice that 1,670 large, public companies endorse what it says. They embrace and pay lip service to CRT, despite it demeaning a broad swath of our society, including, most likely, themselves.

Investors in these companies' stocks should be aware of this. People who buy their products need to know about it. Their self-destructive promises don't fulfill fiduciary duties to their stockholders or serve their customers, who certainly have the right to expect companies to pay attention to business, and not become social justice "warriors."

As Andrea Widburg wrote me, "My current stance is that anyone who is white and waffles on about diversity and systemic racism must give his job to a minority or other 'diverse' person. Otherwise, I'm plugging my ears and singing 'la, la, la.' Unless they stop preaching and start practicing, what they say is meaningless virtue-signaling."

This is all well and good, except when your plane is being flown by a person hired to combat the employer's "biases" rather than his ability to do his job properly.

The CEO document's intent is clear: to bow to the woke, no matter the absurdity. Spend a little time copying phrases into a Google search, as I have, to expose the underbelly of this beast.

Searching "Strategic inclusion and diversity plans" gets you myriad responses. I found it interesting that even the SEC has a diversity plan. I guess it's now a requirement, a bowing down to be done by all.

I also searched this clunky paragraph: "We will commit to rolling out and/or expanding unconscious bias education within our companies in the form that best fits our specific culture and business. By helping our employees recognize and minimize any potential blind spots, we aim to facilitate more open and honest conversations."

This gets you quickly to this oh, so helpful sales pitch. It's by a company selling anti-bias training. (And of course, asana's leadership is mostly made up of White people; privilege much?) No doubt, it's a company that is flourishing. It lays out the philosophy, quite helpfully.

From it, I learned that our life experience, accrued wisdom, and ability to sort impressions of others based upon trusting our own instincts and knowledge, are untrustworthy. We must wipe the slate clean. Asana suggests, in repetitive ways, that we throw over experience to combat our innate "biases." As a retired business owner, I can say with authority that had I not trusted my own experience and abilities to winnow through the field of potential hires, I would have made business decisions detrimental to my clients' well-being, as well as to my own bottom line.

To combat gender bias, companies must both set "gender-neutral" recruitment standards, and (in the very next bullet point) "create diversity goals." Don't these two statements contradict each other? What on Earth do they have to do with the qualifications of a future employee? It matters not, because it sounds good.

We're told that our "learned attitudes or stereotypes" involuntarily affect the way we think or act. We're fed a long laundry list of such "biases" to guard against. After all, if we are guilty of "idiosyncratic rater bias," how on Earth would we know it?

The process is inherently false, and the companies participating in it are being duped. Welcome to the New Age of Enlightenment!

Image: Stock photo of diverse business people by rawpixel; text added in Pixlr.

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Vietnam is proposing to impose a 5% export tax on steel billet, which could make offer prices from the country's mills uncompetitive in key Asian markets, sources told Fastmarkets on Thursday July 15.

The proposal has been drafted by the Vietnam Ministry of Finance, but is not yet official policy as it is awaiting final government approval, according to key billet trading sources.



News of the proposed export duty came after the ministry released a statement on Wednesday July 14 announcing that it will adjust import and export taxes across a range of commodities in an attempt to stabilize domestic price levels.



Some are saying the tax may get implemented from August, similar to Russia's export tax, but it is too soon to say, a South Asian billet trader told Fastmarkets.



This is the second time that the imposition of an export tax in Vietnam has been discussed, but it seems likely that it could end up being implemented this time given that Vietnams national coffers are quite depleted due to their Covid-19 fight, a Singaporean trading source said.



Sources said that, if the proposed duty came into force, it could become difficult for Vietnam to continue exporting billets.



Its going to kill the export billet market if it happens, and Asian billet buyer source told Fastmarkets. A 5% tax is around $35 per tonne at current prices, and buyers wont take the risk.



Fastmarkets understands that, from July 14, a major Vietnamese mill has been including a clause in billet sales contracts stipulating that the buyer must absorb the 5% export tax if it is brought in before shipment of the cargo.



The implementation of the tax would not necessarily force cfr China billet prices to jump up, however, given that buying prices in China are dictated by the country's domestic prices rather than supplier offers, the billet buyer source said.



Large Vietnamese billet exporters may not be very competitive any more if this export tax happens - a $34 per tonne tax is a pretty [significant] amount. We may see other parts of the world do this too in the future, a second South Asian trading source said.



And if they can't export a lot of billet, then that might also affect Vietnam's buying of imported scrap - particularly deep-sea cargoes, he added.



Vietnam is a major exporter of steel billet, selling several cargoes per month to key buyer markets including China, the Philippines and Indonesia.



China imported 248,322 tonnes of steel billet from Vietnam in the first five months of 2021, accounting for 41.8% of China's total billet imports over that time period, according to China's General Administration of Customs.



In 2020, China imported 679,244 tonnes of Vietnamese billet, a 531.4% year-on-year increase, according to customs data.



Two major Vietnamese mills were heard to have offered 3sp 150mm billet earlier this week at $683 per tonne fob, with a deal to China heard closed at this price on Wednesday, which would equate to $705-707 per tonne cfr China.



Fastmarkets weekly price assessment for steel billet, import, cfr China was $675-691 per tonne on July 9.



Vietnam's Ministry of Finance has also proposed a tax reduction to an appropriate level for some imports, especially given that domestic goods have almost no protection needs, the government said on July 14.



In 2020, steel imports to Vietnam amounted to 13.26 million tonnes, with a value of more than $8 billion, down 8.92% in volume terms from 14.44 million tonnes 2019, the Vietnam Steel Association said.
The ancient city of Varanasi, in central India, draws pilgrims from all around the world. One of the most important religious hubs and the holiest among all Hindu cities, Varanasi has a wealth of sacred sites ranging from temples to forts to river banks, but one that often gets overlooked is a shrine dedicated to the country itself.

The Bharat Mata Mandir (literally, Mother India Temple) located in Varanasi's Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith campus, was built by the university's founder and freedom fighter Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta. Instead of worshipping a god or a goddess, the temple has a huge topographical map of the Indian subcontinent carved in marble. The map is the temples deity.

Photo: MIXA Co. Ltd/Getty Images

Construction of Bharat Mata Mandir began in 1918 and completed in 1924. The temple was officially inaugurated in 1936 by Mahatma Gandhi. The 20th century Hindi poet Maithili Sharan Gupt, fondly called Rashtra Kavi (national poet) composed a poem on the inauguration of the temple which is also put up on a board in the building.

The massive relief map of the undivided Indian subcontinent lies flat on the floor of the temple. The map depicts the mountains, plains and oceans in an exaggerated vertical scale. It even shows the continental shelf and the countrys various islands. Every year on the occasion of Indias Republic Day and the Independence Day celebration, the oceans surrounding the landmass is filled with water and the land areas are decorated with flowers.

Photo: Anders Blomqvist/Getty

Aside from modern India, the map also shows Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Sri Lanka, based on the nationalistic concept of Akhand Bharat (undivided India), which posits that all the above mentioned countries are one nation. The term took root during Indias independence struggle in response to the Britishs divide and rule policy that sought to break solidarity among different factions and religions in India to weaken their movement.

The idea was propounded by activist and politician Kanaiyalal Maneklal Munshi and was supported by Mahatma Gandhi. During the 1937 annual session of Hindu Mahasabah, the Indian activist Vinayak Damodar Savarkar declared that India must remain one and indivisible from Kashmir to Rameswaram, from Sindh to Assam. He said:

All citizens who owe undivided loyalty and allegiance to the Indian nation and to the Indian state shall be treated with perfect equality and shall share duties and obligations equally in common, irrespective of caste, creed or religion, and the representation also shall either be on the basis of one man one vote or in proportion to the population in case of separate electorates and public services shall go by merit alone.

Even today, more than seventy years after Indias partition and after numerous wars with Pakistan, many Hindu nationalists still dream of a grand Indian reunification.

Photo: Dennis Jarvis/Flickr




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Note to Joe: Try These Two Easy Tricks to Promote Freedom in Cuba
Tampa - Ursula Therese Tomlinson, known to her friends as "Terry", passed away on June 26, 2021 after a short illness, at the age of 82, surrounded by her loved ones in Tampa, Fla. She was born in Germany on October 10, 1938 and was raised in Germany and Austria. In 1959 she moved to the Uni
The OnePlus Watch has a new update coming its way. The B.62 update for the wearable is now rolling out globally and it brings tons of optimizations and improvements. Here is what you can expect from this update:

According to the official changelog, the latest update for the OnePlus Watch introduces optimizations and design changes to some watch faces to make them look better. Some watch faces are also picking up additional information such as dates. If you want to change the watch face, you can now long-press on the current watch face to enter the editing mode.

Optimizations to the layout of some interface buttons now make them more intuitive and convenient to use. The volume control function is getting some design changes as well, making volume adjustment easier and convenient for users. OnePlus also promises optimizations to the remote control camera interface.

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Last but not least, the OnePlus Watch is picking up improvements to GPS positioning with the latest update. You should now see improved accuracy as well as speed while tracking your location with the OnePlus Watch, at least thats what the company claims.

The latest OnePlus Watch update is now rolling out incrementally

Ever since the OnePlus Watch reached consumers hands, there have been complaints of software issues left, right, and center. The Chinese company has been able to address some of those issues with updates in the past. However, theres still plenty of room for improvement. The latest update now aims to make the experience better for users.

As always, this is an incremental update, meaning it will roll out to a small group of users initially. Once the OTA (over the air) package is confirmed to be bug-free, OnePlus will make the update available to all eligible OnePlus Watch users globally.

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That said, user comments on the official thread announcing this update on the OnePlus forums suggest there are some bugs. At least a couple of users have confirmed that the red notification dot, that appears at the bottom of the watch face every time the watch receives a notification, is inconsistent. Sometimes it appears, sometimes it doesnt. The accuracy and speed of GPS positioning are also apparently unchanged despite OnePlus promising some improvements.

Nonetheless, if youve received this update in your OnePlus Watch, you might want to see it for yourself. Make sure that the watch has more than 40 percent of the charge remaining before proceeding with the update to avoid any issues.
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ISTANBUL - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan removed the contested rector of the prestigious Bogazici University in Istanbul, Melih Bulu, whom Erdogan named to the post on January 2 of this year and who has since been the subject of constant protests by students and professors of the university.



The surprise decision came with a public decree on Thursday in the country's Official Gazette, and was not accompanied by the naming of a replacement.



The removal of the rector was celebrated by tens of thousands on Thursday on social media as a "victory of the student resistance".



Protests regarded both the presidential nomination of the head of the university after the failed coup five years ago, which was considered a threat to academic autonomy; as well as the personal profile of Bulu, who was considered unqualified for the job and accused of partisanship due to his ties with Erdogan's AKP party, with which he also ran as a candidate for parliament.



The continuous student protests were quashed with force on several occasions by police, with the arrest of dozens of students.



Meanwhile, professors also held a form of silent protest for months on the university campus, standing still for long periods, similar to the Gezi Park protests in 2013 in Istanbul.
BEIRUT - Lebanese Prime Minister Designate Saad Hariri submitted his resignation to Lebanese President Michel Aoun on Thursday, thus renouncing the task of forming a government.



On Wednesday, Hariri had submitted a new proposal for forming a government, this time with 24 ministers, to Aoun.



On Thursday he went to the Baabda Presidential Palace in the early afternoon and after a brief meeting with Aoun he announced his decision to the media.



"May God protect Lebanon," Hariri said as he concluded his terse message after his quick meeting with Aoun.



Hariri was named last October in the middle of Lebanon's political and financial crisis, exascerbated by the devastating explosion at the Beirut port on August 4, 2020.



Former Prime Minister Hassan Diab resigned after the explosion.
RIACE - While the Comboni missionary Father Alex Zanotelli protests in front of Montecitorio, in Riace a day of fasting is underway against the Draghi government's migration policies.



"We are in connection with Fr Zanotelli's initiative," said the former mayor Mimmo Lucano.



"From the global village, the extreme outskirts of Italy, we organised a fast as an act of protest against the migratory policies of the Draghi government, which blocks NGO ships for futile reasons," Lucano said.



"These are inhumane choices in line with previous governments, because those who flee Libyan concentration camps have the right to political asylum. The time of denying human rights on the party of the government authorities was inaugurated with former minister Minniti, who had a strategic role in the criminalisation of solidarity and in the delegitimisation of the so-called Riace model, which came about by chance following a landing on the beach of Riace many years ago. Our idea was made concrete in a humane solution to the migration problem, to the innocent victims of decisions of war, of misery and poverty imposed by neo-liberal logic. A red wave of revolt from the oppression against the black wave of fascism, racism, and inhumanity. It's a day of fasting as protest," he said.


Charlotte Hawkins has said she keeps in touch with her former Good Morning Britain colleague Piers Morgan.

The journalist left the ITV news programme earlier this year following a row over comments he made about the Duchess of Sussex.

Hawkins reflected on her relationship with Morgan in an interview with Prima.

Piers Morgan left Good Morning Britain over his comments about Meghan (Jonathan Brady/PA)

She told the magazine: Piers Morgan and I still keep in touch.

We met up the other day and hed sent me a text beforehand saying he was looking forward to being able to annoy me again.

Its that mischievousness I love about Piers, and he does manage to annoy in a way no-one else can.

Hawkins also told the magazine she is a great believer in the more positive you are, the more positivity you attract.

She added: It might not be true at all, but I just kind of think if you look at things optimistically, hopefully, that will have an effect on how things are.

Hawkins said she aims to stay positive in life (Ian West/PA)

Thats my outlook on life, I suppose  always hopeful, always positive, and trying to have a positive spin on things because I think lifes too short to worry.

My husbands taught me not to use my energy worrying about things I cant control, which has been a really good lesson.

Hawkins also said she is full of admiration for her GMB colleague Kate Garraway after her husband was in hospital for a year with coronavirus.

She added: She inspires me. Shes gone through so much in her personal life and yet is able to carry on and it doesnt affect her professional life.

I knew how desperately heart-breaking it was and for her to be able to come into Good Morning Britain and to carry on presenting was incredible.

Hawkins discussed Piers Morgan and Kate Garraway in an interview with Prima (Nicky Johnston/Prima/PA)

I think she found that it focused her mind. Sometimes shed be up all night, shed be talking to Derek on FaceTime, then shed be straight into Good Morning Britain.

Shed be speaking to politicians and people whose relatives had died and were going through it.

Im amazed at how shes been able to cope in the way she has done.
Northern Irelands health minister has expressed concern following a spike in Covid-19 cases.

Some 1,083 cases were notified by the Department of Health on Thursday, up from 636 on Wednesday.

This is the first time the daily case number has been over 1,000 since the peak of the third wave of the pandemic in mid January.

The number of people testing positive over the past seven days is now at 4,437.

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The average seven-day incident rate per 100,000 people across Northern Ireland was 234 on Thursday.

Derry and Strabane had the highest rate at 372 followed by Belfast on 319 while Fermanagh and Omagh had the lowest rate at nine.

Robin Swann said the increase in cases is in the younger age groups, and urged all to take up the coronavirus vaccine.

We have seen the numbers climb in recent weeks but todays spike in cases is cause for concern, he said.

This is the first time since January that were reporting a daily change of over 1,000 positive cases, and while we are in a more fortunate position with a large proportion of the population now vaccinated we must remain cautious.

We need everyone to play their part in helping to stop the spread of the virus.

Our advice remains the same, stick to guidelines and regulations, all adults aged 18 and over should get vaccinated, and ensure you and your close contacts self-isolate if you test positive.

Unfortunately, we are seeing an increase in cases in the younger age group so I would make a particular appeal to this group to get vaccinated.

Covid-19 has left many with debilitating long-term health issues, dont put yourself at risk, get the vaccine.

We all want to enjoy the summer but we must continue to do it safely.

No further coronavirus-linked deaths were reported on Thursday leaving the toll at 2,159.

Meanwhile on Thursday morning there were 80 Covid-19 positive patients in hospital, with two in intensive care.

Chief medical officer Sir Michael McBride said vaccination is key to preventing serious illness.

With such high infection levels circulating in the community it is vital that all those eligible for vaccination come forward for their jab, he said.

Our vaccination programme has been very successful and there is no doubt that many people are alive in Northern Ireland today because they have been vaccinated.

Sir Michael said the health service is currently struggling to cope with the current levels of demand for care.

We simply cannot continue to add more pressure, he said.

We must work together to drive down infection levels.

This means we must all continue to follow the behaviours that we are all accustomed to, and that we know limit the spread of the virus.

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Earlier First Minister Paul Givan encouraged take up of the coronavirus vaccine as he received his second dose at the SSE Arena in Belfast.

He described the vaccine as key to escaping the shadow of the coronavirus pandemic and the impact on our lives.

Mr Givan described strength in numbers as important, adding: the more people get vaccinated the better equipped we are collectively we are to fight this virus.

To date, 2,145,799 vaccines have been administered.
The sausage war post-Brexit trade dispute between the UK and EU was not even handbags at dawn, a retail representative has told MPs.

Aodhan Connolly, from the NI Retail Consortium, told the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee the chilled meats dispute was peripheral and that much bigger problems for traders lie ahead.

A number of business, retail and manufacturing bosses addressed MPs during a hearing on the impact of the Northern Ireland Protocol.

The Protocol, part of the Brexit deal, is aimed at avoiding a hard border with Ireland by effectively keeping Northern Ireland in the EUs single market for goods.

A potential prohibition on chilled meats from Great Britain travelling to Northern Ireland is one result of the Protocol, which has created a series of economic barriers on Irish Sea trade.

A grace period to allow chilled meats to continue to be moved to Northern Ireland was extended until September 30, but there is still no agreement between the UK and EU on how to resolve the dispute in the long term.

Mr Connolly told the committee: On chilled meats, if people think that is what a trade war is they are really going to be surprised when there is an actual war. That was not a trade war, that wasnt even a trade handbags at dawn.

It is an emotive issue, but in trade terms it is a peripheral issue.

He added: There are some real concerns and the last couple of weeks we have been having lots of meetings with our grocery members on what is coming down the tracks. We are heading towards a perfect storm in October when we will need export health certificates.

We simply dont know if there is going to be the veterinary capacity, we simply dont know what the cost implications of that will be.

Goods entering Northern Ireland from GB face new checks at Belfast and Larne ports (David Young/PA)

There are lots of things coming at the one time.

Mr Connolly referred to the increase in October in the amount of administration needed for moving food from GB to NI as well as the start of border controls on EU products entering GB.

He said: For the consumer in GB, they wont really have felt any of this because those controls have not come in yet but theyll be phased in from October.

Were at the end of those supply chains so there could be a knock-on there.

Victor Chestnutt, director of the Ulster Farmers Union, said the chilled meats row was a red herring.

He said: There has been this unwillingness politically for Europe and the UK to engage on small issues that are very real on farms, and community tension therefore in NI is rising.

Victor Chestnutt of the Ulster Farmers Union (Cliff Donaldson/PA)

We did see some flexibilities, one on chilled meats, which I would say was a red herring. We are an exporting region, we can make all the sausages we need in NI. Yes, the choice is good for consumers, but that was a red herring really.

MPs were also told that one in five Northern Ireland manufacturing companies have reported that firms in the rest of the UK are unwilling to continue to supply them with goods following the Protocol.

Stephen Kelly, chief executive of Manufacturing NI, said: What we know is that 77% of manufacturers said that the first three months, following the end of the transition period, had a negative impact upon their business.

In terms of GB business, 36% said that they were currently struggling with the new processes and they believed that that struggle would persist. One third said it had a negative impact on their sales to GB, in both directions.

Most concerning was that one in five, 20%, said that their UK suppliers were simply unwilling to continue to supply to Northern Ireland.

Mr Kelly added: When we look at the EU side, 46% of EU suppliers are reported to be either unaware, unprepared or unwilling to supply to Northern Ireland.

The challenge that is identified there is that despite reports leading up to the end of 2020 that the EU was ready for no deal, there hasnt been that education programme in the EU that explains to suppliers and customers that goods destined for Northern Ireland are meant to freely flow.
Why Kylie Jenner Decided to Sell Half of Kylie Cosmetics: Details

Going global! Kylie Jenner isnt just relaunching a clean version of Kylie Cosmetics  shes also taking her revamped beauty brand international.

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And get this: its always been part of the plan. In fact, her goal to expand her beauty empire is the reason she decided to sell 51 percent of her company to Coty Inc. in November 2019 for $600 million.

The reason why I sold half my company was to have this big infrastructure to go global, the 23-year-old reality star revealed in her Inside Kylie Cosmetics Part Three: Kylie 2.0 Youtube video, which was released on Thursday, July 15.

Kylie Cosmetics, which has officially rebranded as both clean and vegan, will be sold at Douglas Cosmetics, Nocibe France, Harrods Beauty, Selfridges, Mecca Beauty, Ulta Beauty, Nordstrom, Boots UK, Gold Apple and Shoppers Drug Mart.

Expanding her empire wasnt the only impetus for the rebrand though. According to the Kylie Skin founder, giving her makeup a 2.0 upgrade was always her end goal.

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Ive learned so much, so much more than what I knew when I started Kylie Cosmetics, Jenner said. Being clean and vegan and cruelty-free and paraben-free, all these things are really important to me now. I was to just be really proud of everything that I release.

She continued: I want to be proud of the things that I make and the things that, you know, Im selling to people. I just want everyone to feel good when they wear my makeup and see the love that we put into it.

The relaunch, which will include 37 lip kits, 30 high glosses, 32 matte liquid lipsticks, nine lip liners and four lip blushes, has been causing quite the buzz on social media.

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In May, the Keeping Up With the Kardashians star completely wiped the Kylie Cosmetics Instagram clean, posting just one polaroid of herself. She captioned the picture, Something is coming.

We took this polaroid photo behind the scenes at my rebrand photo shoot, so I knew I wanted to tease with that photo, Jenner revealed in the Youtube video. A few days before, I was like I think we need to wipe the entire Instagram.

As such, someone went back to the beginning of 2015 and archived 8,000 posts from the past 6 years.

It seems as though it was worth it, as the post blew up, gaining more than 600,000 likes.

Kylie Cosmetics is available today on kyliecosmetics.com.
Joe Biden's campaign website for the 2020 presidential election stated that a President Biden would "forgive a minimum of $10,000/person of federal student loans," which would erase all of the student debt for 15 million of the nearly 45 million American borrowers.

Nearly six months into his presidency, that promise remains unfulfilled.

A blurb from the Biden 2020 campaign website. (JoeBiden.com)

The Biden administration has made some targeted moves to cancel debt for certain borrowers, and the pandemic payment pause on federally-backed debt payments will lead to roughly $100 billion in total student loan forgiveness between March 2020 and September 2021.

Prominent Democrats, meanwhile, continue to urge a skeptical President Biden to enact broad-based cancellation of up to $50,000 via executive action (as opposed to legislation passed by Congress).

Many Americans voted for President Biden because of his promise to provide direct relief to those struggling  and now is the time to act," U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) told Yahoo Finance in a statement. "I will continue pushing the administration to tackle the student debt crisis by cancelling up to 50K in student debt because it is critical to our economic recovery.

The White House did not respond to requests for comment.

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Biden backed May 2020 plan to 'immediately provide $10,000 in debt relief'

Then-candidate Biden called for student loan forgiveness several times during 2020.

On March 22, days before Congress passed the $2.2 trillion Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act stimulus bill, Biden tweeted that the federal government "should forgive a minimum of $10,000/person of federal student loans."

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In May 2020, Biden told The Late Show with Stephen Colbert that he backed a proposal to "immediately provide $10,000 in debt relief as stimulus right now  right now for students."

In October 2020, Biden told CNN town hall questioner that "I'm gonna make sure that everybody in this generation gets $10,000 knocked off their student debt as we try to get out of this God-awful pandemic."

The pitch was popular: Two national surveys from December 2020showed that more than half of Americans across the political spectrum supported student loan forgiveness.

"[Biden] was very explicit about planning to cancel at least $10,000 during the campaign, and he made the campaign promise in several places, him physically, but also within his campaign materials," Persis Yu, director of the National Consumer Law Center's Student Loan Borrower Assistance Project, told Yahoo Finance. "It was a prominent piece of his campaign promises, not one of the buried on page 45 of all the documents ... and it was certainly one that student loan borrowers are very eager for him to fulfill."

Democratic U.S. presidential candidate and former Vice President Joe Biden speaks to supporters at a campaign rally on the night of the New Hampshire primary in Columbia, South Carolina, U.S., February 11, 2020. (REUTERS/Randall Hill)

After he won the election, however, Biden's tone shifted.

In December 2020, President-elect Biden cast doubt on broad student loan forgiveness when he told a meeting of news columnists that the Democratic argument to cancel student debt through executive action was "pretty questionable," adding: "Im unsure of that. Id be unlikely to do that.

In February 2021, when a member of the audience in a CNN town hall asked President Biden if he would enact $50,000 in student loan forgiveness, Biden replied: "I will not make that happen."

It depends on whether or not you go to a private university or public university, Biden explained. It depends on the idea that I say to a community, Im going to forgive the debt, the billions of dollars of debt, for people who have gone to Harvard and Yale and Penn.

In May 2021, during an interview with The New York Times, Biden reiterated his reluctance to cancel debt: The idea that you go to Penn and youre paying a total of 70,000 bucks a year and the public should pay for that? I dont agree."

US President Joe Biden speaks about voting rights at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, July 13, 2021. (Photo: SAUL LOEB / AFP)

'They believe that they've been promised'

The basic argument for the president to being able to forgive student debt through executive action, as detailed by the Legal Services Center of Harvard Law School in a letter to Sen. Warren, is that the Education Secretary has the power to cancel existing student loan debt under a distinct statutory authority  the authority to modify existing loans found in 20 U.S.C.  1082(a)(4).

In March 2020, White House Chief of Staff Ron Klain told Politico that President Biden had asked Education Secretary Miguel Cardona to compile a memo on whether the president has the legal authority to forgive $50,000 in student loan debt through executive order.

"Biden is overdue  canceling student debt is overdue," Thomas Gokey, organizer of the Debt Collective, an activist group, told Yahoo Finance. "The time to have done it was the day one of the administration."

The Education Department has not responded to requests for comment on the memo, though ED recently hired Toby Merrill, who founded the Project on Predatory Student Lending at Harvard Law School and co-authored the legal analysis provided to Warren.

In any case, ED officials are now reportedly recommending that the White House at least extend the pandemic payment pause through January 2022.

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The stakes are high: Experts, advocates, and prominent Democrats stressed that some level of student loan forgiveness would be a crucial move before the pandemic payment pause ends.

"It would be prudent to make this decision before restarting payments," said Yu, who works with many low-income borrowers. "It doesn't make sense to make people start paying and then canceling their loans... [and] if we can clear the books of some of the debt, it could make turning the system back on a lot easier."

Yu added that a major federal loan servicer dropping out of the loan program at the end of the year presented a "recipe for disaster" since the government will need to transition roughly 8.5 million borrowers to another servicer.

"Why send out bills and notices to millions of people, and then just turn around and say, 'Just kidding, that's not true,'?" Seth Frotman, executive director of the Student Borrower Protection Center and a former student-loan ombudsman at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, told Yahoo Finance. "It [would] cause mass confusion and disappointment for borrowers."

Warren previously told Yahoo Finance that if the payment pause is lifted without cancellation, "we are facing a student loan time bomb that when it explodes could throw millions of families over a financial cliff."

Warren and other Democrats also asked ED about student debt collection practices in the face of a potential wave of student loan defaults when the pandemic payment pause expires.

"There's a lot of anxiety that folks are feeling," Yu said. "They believe that they've been promised some amount of debt cancellation. And for a lot of the folks we work with, it would make a huge difference in their lives to not have this burden going forward."



Aarthi is a reporter for Yahoo Finance. She can be reached at aarthi@yahoofinance.com. Follow her on Twitter @aarthiswami.

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NOVATO, Calif., July 16, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ -- Fernando Ceron Ayala, an industrial engineer, has completed his new book "Sentimientos y vivencias": a heartfelt voice of love, life, heartbreak, tranquility, and so much more. In this collection, the author makes use of metaphors to colorfully relay a life that wasn't easy but still, greatly fulfilling.
There has been a continuous fertility decline among most states in India over the years

If a state wishes to stabilise its population, it could start with focusing its political energy on improving female literacy and other. Representational Image (Representational image: PTI)

We cant have a sustainable planet without stabilising our population.

It is also no secret that coercive population control policies are not the way to stabilise population. The Narendra Modi government at the Centre was clearly aware of these well-known facts when it told the Supreme Court in December last year that India is unequivocally against forcing family planning on its people and that international experience shows that any coercion to have a certain number of children is counter-productive and leads to demographic distortions. In an affidavit filed in the Supreme Court, in response to a PIL seeking enactment of a law to control population, the health and family welfare ministry referenced the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development 1994, to which India is a signatory, and asserted that the country was unequivocally against coercion in family planning. It noted that the countrys family welfare programme was voluntary in nature.

More than six months down the line, Uttar Pradesh, ruled by the same BJP which calls the shots at the Centre, is singing a totally different tune. It has come up with a new population policy for 2021-2030 and wishes to bring in a law that would debar those with more than two children from contesting in local polls, prevent them from applying for or getting promotion in government jobs, and get various government subsidies. The proposed law also says that it shall be the duty of the government to introduce a compulsory subject relating to population control in all secondary schools.

Unsurprisingly, the Uttar Pradesh Population (Control, Stabilisation and Welfare) Bill 2021, which is open for suggestions from the public till July 19, has kicked up a storm.

The proposed law offers a slew of incentives to public servants who adopt the two-child norm such as two additional increments during their entire service, maternity or as the case may be, paternity leave of 12 months, with full salary and allowances.

All this is being done, the UP government argues, because there are limited ecological and economic resources at hand in the state and it is necessary and urgent that the provision of basic necessities of human life, including affordable food, safe drinking water, decent housing, access to quality education, economic/livelihood opportunities, power/electricity for domestic consumption, and a secure living is accessible to all citizens.

The state wants to bring down its gross fertility rate from 2.7 (at present) to 2.1 by 2026, and to 1.9 by 2030.

No one can have any quarrel with the idea of any state government wanting to provide basic necessities to its people. But where is the evidence to show that coercive measures help stabilise population in the long run, especially in democracies? Why is population control and population balance becoming the talking points instead of the real issues that need to be addressed so that the state can deliver the basics to its people.

There has been a continuous fertility decline among most states in India over the years. States like Kerala and Tamil Nadu, which have succeeded in sharply reducing their total fertility rate, have done so by focusing on female literacy, womens education, increasing age of marriage and overall human development. This is also true for other countries in the neighbourhood which have successfully stabilised their population.

There is a wealth of evidence that suggest that women with no, or low education, have higher fertility as compared to women with higher levels of education. Indias country-wide female literacy rate is 70.3 per cent, while the male literacy rate is estimated at around 84.7 per cent, going by a nationwide study by the National Statistical Office from July 2017 to June 2018. But a bunch of states, including UP, trail behind the national average when it comes to female literacy. Female literacy rate in Uttar Pradesh was pegged at 63.4 per cent, while male literacy in the state is around 81.8 per cent.

If a state wishes to stabilise its population, it could start with focusing its political energy on improving female literacy and other development indicators. Health activists are pointing out that states which have a dismal record in infant mortality, where institutional births are fewer, and where female illiteracy is high have a much higher birth rate than others.

The governments own surveys show that women in the lowest wealth quintile, and the least educated women, had on an average one more child than those with more than 12 years of schooling and in the highest wealth quintile.

The total fertility rate (TFR) in the country as a whole is coming down 19 out of 22 states now have a below-replacement fertility which means women in these states have less than two children. In UP too, the fertility rate is on a downward trajectory  it nearly halved from 4.82 in 1993 to 2.7 in 2016.

Political observers say the draft bill is less about population stabilisation and more about the politics of perception. Irrespective of whether it becomes a law or not, it is already being seen as a marker of muscular Hindutva that will keep the minorities in their place. With Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections inching closer, this could help consolidate the BJPs support base in the state.

As Ashwini Deshpande, professor of economics, Ashoka University, said in a recent commentary: The unstated, or often stated, argument is that certain communities have too many children. This stokes baseless majoritarian fears.

Of course, Uttar Pradesh isnt alone in believing in the power of the stick. Assam, also a BJP-ruled state, is debating a population control policy. Gujarat, another BJP state, says it plans to study the new population control laws in other states. In Gujarat, those with more than two children cannot contest local body polls.

Many states have experimented with the two-child policy in one form or another over the years. But they arent uniform, and its hard to quantify their impact. Population experts say coercive population policies can do harm  worsen the child sex ratio, malnutrition, etc  and should be avoided at all costs.

Its critical that we keep the fundamentals on the front-burner. The Uttar Pradesh government headed by Yogi Adityanath acknowledges that illiteracy and poverty can slow down population stabilisation. Women with no schooling have a higher fertility rate in UP, as in other states.

Theres an urgent need to act on the why in these areas, and not population control through coercion, if the goal is sustainable and inclusive development.
A line of traffic backed up on Main Street, heading out of Aspen on July 6, the Tuesday after the holiday weekend. So far, July 2 was the day that saw the most vehicles coming in and out of town, at 28,000, earning it second place behind July 3, 2003 as the busiest day for vehicles.
A little longer than the second-generation pickup, the (almost) all-new model will be initially offered with rear- or four-wheel drive, extended- or crew-cab configurations, as well as two options for the cargo box (five and six feet).Rated at 1,610 pounds (730 kilograms) for maximum payload and 6,720 pounds (3,048 kilograms) in terms of towing capacity, the Frontier doesnt have the right stuff to challenge the Ford Ranger. Thats a bit of a shame, but then again, the Japanese automaker is losing faith in pickups. Lest we forget, the Navara will be discontinued in Europe due to shrinking demand.Far better looking than its predecessor, the 2022 Frontier is offered exclusively with a 3.8-liter V6. The free-breathing mill is said to feature 93-percent new or redesigned parts compared to the old 4.0-liter engine.Rated at 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet (381 Nm) of torque, the direct-injected motor is matched to a nine-speed automatic transmission manufactured under license by Nissan-owned JATCO. JR913E is the internal designation of the gearbox, which is based on the Mercedes-Benz 9G-Tronic. Although its not the most efficient or strongest transmission out there, its far superior to the five-speed auto of the second-generation truck.Scheduled to arrive in dealer showrooms throughout the United States and Canada in late summer 2021, the refreshed Frontier matches the modern exterior with a utility-centric interior. The cabins focal points are the 7.0-inch Advanced Driver Assist Display and the optional 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Other noteworthy features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless charging, and Safety Shield 360."The all-new Frontier has surpassed our expectations  setting new standards for mid-size truck capability, technology, and power," declared Tim Fallon, vice president of the Nissan Canton Vehicle Assembly Plant. "The Canton plant team is full of pride and ready to produce the next generation of one of the strongest, most rugged trucks in the market," concluded Mr. Fallon.
Its relationship with Sauber will drive developments that will continue to reflect on production cars  such was the case with the development of the Giulia GTA and GTAm , Alfa Romeos latest performance sedans.As a historic Italian automotive brand, Alfa Romeo was born on the racetrack, said Alfa Romeo CEO, Jean-Philippe Imparato. Today, we are proud to continue honoring that racing DNA by placing it at the heart of the future of our brand. We are driven by passion and excellence. Formula One represents a cutting-edge laboratory for the future electrification of our range, fully coherent with our vision for the coming years. Furthermore, motorsports brings the incomparable global exposure we wish to leverage for a successful future.Since its official return to Formula 1 back in 2018, Alfa Romeo has developed multiple exciting young drivers such as Charles Leclerc (now at Ferrari) and Antonio Giovinazzi. Theyve also brought back former F1 champion Kimi Raikkonen. Next year, the team expects to take a massive step forward thanks to major regulation changes that include a new budget cap and ground effects-focused designs.As it stands now, Alfa Romeo Racing has amassed just 2 points in the 2021 Constructor Standings and is currently ranked ahead of just Williams and Haas. That being said, their drivers havent looked bad at all, finishing just outside the points on several occasions, instead of well towards the back of the grid.It was Kimi Raikkonen who secured a point at Baku while finishing less than a second behind McLarens Daniel Ricciardo (P9), with Giovinazzi taking his point in Monaco thanks to a P10 finish.
July 20 is Romanian Aviation Day and, on the morning of July 15, several birds were in the air to rehearse for the planned air parade to mark the occasion. It has since been canceled, local media outlet Digi24 reports.The same outlet notes that, while the exact causes of the incident are to be determined by the ongoing investigation, it is believed the helicopter experienced a malfunction in mid-air. The first video at the bottom of the page shows it flying in formation, before starting to lose altitude fast, to the point where its flying right above Aviatorilor Boulevard (Aviators' Boulevard, the mother of all ironies).The Black Hawk continues to drop, clipping trees and bringing down a pair of utility poles, before it lands safely in Charles de Gaulle Square. There were no injuries and very little damage, which is perhaps the most surprising part and maybe a testament to the skills of the pilots. Reports note that the two utility poles fell on a couple of cars, causing some damage. The pilots were not hurt either.Traffic was blocked in the area for a while. The helicopter will be taken to the Mihai Kogalniceanu airbase for the duration of the investigation, with the U.S. Embassy in the country saying that updates on the incident will be offered in due time.Aircraft making emergency landings on busy streets and highways are not such a rare sight. However, this is perhaps a first: its usually small, 2-passenger planes or the occasional small helicopter that make this kind of headlines. The Black Hawk is a troop or cargo military helicopter , with the ability to carry up to 14 personnel in full gear or 20 lightly equipped personnel, or 22,000 pounds (1,000 kg) in total, plus an additional 9,000 pounds (4,082 kg) as an external load.
If you get your news about Tesla from the fandomsphere, you may have the impression that the company will save the world with clean cars and people from their lousy driving skills with Autopilot FSD , and such. When you check more neutral sources, you see a company that is pretty much like all others. Drew Magary painted a portrait of the company in one of his columns that spares no words about how ordinary Tesla and Elon Musk would be.
Commissioned by the brands local distributor , Grand Chelem, and personalized via the Ad Personam program at the SantAgata Bolognese studio, the supercars boast different colors and a celebratory plaque, each symbolizing the corresponding theme.Mexico has become an influential force for a growing automotive community in Latin America, and were proud to celebrate this partnership with Grand Chelem, said the automakers Chief Marketing and Sales Officer, Federico Foschini. The four special edition models, designed with the brands Ad Personam program, present the endless possibilities available to clients when configuring their own Lamborghini vehicle .The four cars are about to embark on a journey throughout Mexico Citys most known landmarks. The Huracan Vita will take its Verde Ermes (green) and Oro Elios (gold) accents to the streets, as well as its eagle emblem that celebrates freedom and the success in life, according to Lamborghini. The Huracan Morte features the emblem of a skull that ritualizes the journey between life and death, and has a Blu Astreus (blue) color and Bronzo Serse (bronze) trim.For the Sogno, the Raging Bull has chosen a two-headed dragon plaque. The supercar has a Blu Symi (light blue) paint finish and Oro Elios (gold) accents. Last, but definitely not least, the Huracan Tempos snake plaque is representative of the reinvention of oneself by shedding the skin, the Italian carmaker states. This model has a Nero Nemesis (black) hue and Bronzo Serse (bronze) details, and a similar theme on the inside, just like the aforementioned versions of the supercar that are part of the companys celebrations.
Northrop Grumman announced that it broke ground on a new space for weapons technology development : the Hypersonics Center of Excellence, at its facility in Elkton, Maryland. The aerospace and defense technology company has ties with this particular location that go back to 1948. Since then, this is where numerous products for defense and space applications were developed.Now, its time to take things to the next level and dive even deeper into hypersonics. From design to production and integration, the company plans to deliver the full lifecycle for hypersonic weapons, at the 60,000-square foot facility.With technology developments moving so fast, it was important for Northrop Grumman to be able to respond to constantly evolving defense needs as quickly and as effectively as possible. According to it, this new center will integrate cutting-edge production technologies, and automated processes will be a big part of this, including the use of autonomous guided vehicles.According to a recent Federation of American Scientists (FAS) report for the U.S. Congress, theres an increased interest in developing hypersonic weapons, because of the current potential threats. Several countries are already working on weapons that can fly at a speed of more than Mach 5, which is 5 times the speed of sound.There are 2 main types, namely hypersonic glide vehicles (HGV), which are launched from rockets, and hypersonic cruise missiles that are powered by engines known as scramjets. The main advantages are the high speed, the low flight altitude that makes them more difficult to detect for ground-based radars, plus the fact that they can maneuver on the way to the target. Unlike ballistic missiles, hypersonic weapons dont have a fixed trajectory.Northrup Grumman is no stranger to scramjets and ramjets. With this new hypersonics production facility, its ready to make them even more effective, affordable, also delivering them faster to the U.S. military.
It looks like 19-seaters are making a comeback, in a new and improved version. Standard ones became obsolete because they werent cost-effective, compared to larger passenger aircraft . But this new, all-electric version promises to change that.Simply called the ES-19, this revolutionary aircraft is powered by an electric propulsion system consisting of a 400kW electric motor, a lithium-ion battery pack and a motor controller. Besides operating with zero emissions, the ES-19 will provide significant cost reductions.According to Heart Aerospace, its electric motor is almost 20 times less expensive than a turboprop of the same size, and even 100 times less expensive than the cheapest turbofan on the market. Plus, maintenance costs would also be 100 times lower. With these stats, the new 19-seater looks like it could easily compete with 70-seater turboprop aircraft that have replaced old-generation 19-seaters over the years.For now, the electric regional airplanes range is limited to what the batteries of today can provide  in this case, a 250-mile (400 km) maximum. This is why the ES-19 will be used for short travel distance at first, on heavy-requested routes or ones that difficult to reach by car, which makes it ideal for island-hopping and flying over mountainous terrain.Based in Gothenburg, Sweden, Heart Aerospace is a spin-off from a government-funded research project. Starting out just a couple of years ago, it has quickly developed an electric propulsion system, which is now at the heart of the ES-19. The purchase agreement with United and Mesa, for 200 electric aircraft , with the option for 100 additional ones, was part of a $35 million investment round, led by Breakthrough Energy Ventures.The first ES-19 for commercial use are expected to be delivered by 2026.
SUV

iSeeCars.com analyzed more than a million vehicles from the 2016 to 2020 model year, and Toyota dominates the list of fastest-selling new cars with the RAV4. The compacttook 9.5 days to sell on average while the fuel-sipping hybrid and plug-in hybrid took 11.1 and 12 days, respectively. The RAV4 has seen renewed interest thanks to the success of the PHEV, which had its best-ever monthly sales in June, leading some dealers to mark up its price due to high demand, highlighted executive analyst Karl Brauer.As expected, U.S. motorists cant get enough of used cars either. The fastest-selling used vehicle in June 2021 is the Tesla Model 3 with 17.6 days on average. Whats even more interesting about the iSeeCars.com study is the average price of a used Model 3 all-electric sedan, specifically $45,653 as opposed to $39,990 for a brand-spanking-new Standard Range Plus. Model 3s are so popular that consumers are willing to purchase used cars that were more expensive than new versions of the vehicle, added Brauer.In addition to the automotive industry, the chip shortage also affects Tesla Powerwall production. Current demand exceeds 80,000 units but the Palo Alto-based outfit wont be able to make even half that amount this quarter.As to why the automotive industry bleeds money over the semiconductor crunch, you can blame the virus that shall not be named for this blunder. Historically speaking, automakers have limited inventories of parts to just-in-time to reduce costs. When new-vehicle sales took a turn for the worse last year during lockdown, many semiconductor foundries decided to switch production from automotive chips to consumer electronics, especially chips that demand higher prices such as the specialized chips for 5G connectivity.According to analysts, the shortage will continue into Q1 of 2022.
SUV

After originally being manufactured in Graz, Austria, BMW made the second-generation X3 at their Spartanburg plant in South Carolina, United States. But once it was time for the arrival of its third generation, the compact luxury crossover once again turned into a proper import as its production was relocated to South Africa. Still, this X3 M features a few enhancements that will make it worthy of a triumphant return to its adoptive home.According to the scarce details shared by the folks over at the Drag Racing and Car Stuff channel on YouTube, this isnt a regular 473 to 503-hp X3 M (theres no mention if we are dealing with the regular or Competition version). Instead, it has been thoroughly enhanced with an e40 blend. And the spice seems to do wonders for the Germanas evidenced by the initial first run (with a flappy rear license plate), a solo yielding a 10.97 ET.Of course, theres no substitute for actual battles, and the X3 M has its job cut out for it as far as were concerned. Thats because its meeting a roster of hardened quarter mile warriors , in the form of a Suzuki Hayabusa motorcycle, a tuned 2015 Nissan GT-R running its own e70-ish mixture and some bolt-ons, along with a spectacular B-Rogue Built twin-turbo Audi R8 (which sounds like a hoot from the six-minute mark).After the initial presentations (for both the X3 M and R8) its time for the Bavarian to meet the Japanese master (at 2:46). Of course, the GT-R doesnt look deterred by whatever this X3 M hides underneath and finishes the run as the logical victor, with a 10.69s to 10.98s result. But, as far as we can tell from afar, its really not that big of a difference.One would expect the gap to widen from the 3:15 mark when its time for the Busa to showcase its crimson assets ... but again the difference is not that sizeable, as shown by the 10.5s to 11.13s passes. On the other hand, the R8 does come out for some fun at the 3:50 mark, nailing a couple of wins by a larger margin. Still, we really cant help but remain impressed by this constant X3 warrior...
The main stars of the light show are the meteors . Known as the Perseids, they take their name after the constellation Perseus, which they appear to come from when they lit up in the night (keep in mind that they do not actually come from the constellation). They are actually fragments of the comet SwiftTuttle that have been left behind as it travels along its 133-year orbit.Every year, as our planet passes through these debris trails, the fragments hit Earths atmosphere and disintegrate, resulting in blazing, colorful streaks across the sky. This spectacle is visible from mid-July to mid-August, with a peak in activity between 9 and 14 August.During the peak, up to 60 meteors can fall in one hour. According to NASA , if the sky is clear, people can actually spot about 100 shooting stars per hour. The Perseids can be viewed from all across the globe, but they are most visible in the Northern Hemisphere. Stargazers should keep an eye out for them during the pre-dawn hours, however meteors from the shower can sometimes be seen as early as 10 p.m.What should also be on their radar are the Perseids fireballs. They are larger, brighter blasts of color and light that can last longer than a regular meteor streak. Fireballs are the result of larger comet particles burning out in our atmosphere.Not all the shooting stars will be Perseids. Some are regular meteors that hit our planet, while others might come from weaker showers, such as the Alpha Capricornids, the Southern Delta Aquariids, and the Kappa Cygnids, which happen to be active around the same time as the Perseid shower.To find it out if the shooting star just witnessed is a Perseid, you can trace its streak backward and see if it comes from the constellation Perseus. If finding constellations isnt your forte, NASA says that you can tell them apart from other meteors because they burn out in our atmosphere faster.This summers Perseid meteor shower can be viewed from any location where there are no bright lights around, that is, provided that the sky is clear. You dont need any special equipment to view the natural fireworks above, just lay back and enjoy the show! Oh, and dont forget to make a wish!
The United States is "briskly" and "energetically" looking for "additional options" to combat the threat of future terrorist safe havens in Afghanistan, Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said during an appearance on Fox News Sunday.

Why it matters: While President Biden has set an Aug. 31 deadline to end U.S. military operations and Taliban forces continue to gain ground, terrorism experts increasingly fear the resurgence of al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.

Kirby said on Sunday that the United States is "working with neighboring countries that are closer to Afghanistan to see what the possibilities are."

"working with neighboring countries that are closer to Afghanistan to see what the possibilities are." The Pentagon did not immediately return a request for comment about which countries had been approached or were under consideration. However, when asked at a July 6 press conference about securing basing access in Tajikistan or Uzbekistan, Kirby said conversations had taken place with foreign ministers from both countries, though he declined to specify what was discussed.

"I won't detail the specifics of those conversations but clearly, we are, and continue to have conversations with leaders in neighboring nations about the kinds of possibilities for support that they can offer."



Afghanistan was also front-and-center on the agenda when Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with his counterpart in Turkey.

Driving the news: Earlier this month, U.S. troops pulled out of Bagram Air Base near Kabul, a "highly symbolic moment, as the sprawling air base had been the hub of U.S. operations in Afghanistan during two decades of war," Axios reported.

Biden has been repeatedly pressed about the drawdown with violence in Afghanistan escalating by the day. He has maintained that the original goals of the U.S. invasion have long since been achieved, and thus America's exit is "quite frankly overdue."

What they're saying: "We have the ability to do it even from afar, even from those bases in the Middle East, an aircraft carrier that's off in the Indian Ocean, we can do that," Kirby said. "And we've proven that we can done that, even in recent years, in places like Libya. It's not like we haven't done this before or that there's a scrap of earth that we can't reach if we absolutely need to."

The purpose that we went into Afghanistan for was to degrade and disrupt Al Qaeda, to limit their ability to project attacks outside Afghanistan. To a great degree, weve done that. The job's not over. This is not a closure, this is a transition, said Sen. Jack Reed, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, on NBC's "Meet the Press."

"I do think it's quite likely we're going to have to either  when we return to Afghanistan because, you know, of the existential threat to us or our allies  re-occupy Bagram or we may have to bomb it if there's some kind of an air mission," said Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.), an Air Force veteran who flew missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, this Sunday on "Meet."

Kinzinger added, "We only had 2,500 troops there, 5,000 NATO troops, and the Afghanistan government was doing 98 percent of the fighting against the Taliban. It's no wonder they're collapsing when the U.S. says, 'We're gone.' But it was really a small price to pay for frankly holding off the inevitable bad that unfortunately we're going to see."

Go deeper: Biden says U.S. military mission in Afghanistan will end Aug. 31
Grigorian, 38, is a member of the ruling Civil Contract party. He graduated from the Department of International Relations of Yerevan State University and later from the American University of Armenia, but has no experience of diplomatic work.

Grigorian coordinated electoral programs for the anti-corruption organization, Transparency International, before becoming one of the key figures of Armenias 2018 Velvet Revolution. He was appointed secretary of the Security Council after the revolution.

Chief of Pashinians staff Arayik Harutiunian introduced Grigorian to the staff of the Foreign Ministry on Wednesday. In his remarks he expressed confidence that Grigorian will encompass the tasks set to him by the government.

Grigorian, for his part, said that he was convinced that we will jointly implement all the tasks outlined in the electoral program of the Civil Contract party that will also be reflected in the governments program.

Armenia has had no foreign minister since May 31. In his farewell speech to the ministry staff former Foreign Minister Ara Ayvazian made it clear that he had resigned because of policy disagreements with Pashinian.

The reason for my decision to resign was to make sure that there are never any suspicions that this ministry could take some steps or agree to some ideas, initiatives going against our statehood and national interests, he said.

Later it was Grigorian who accused Ayvazian of torpedoing the government work on the repatriation of Armenian prisoners of war from Azerbaijan by lying that Yerevan had no minefield maps that it could pass on to the Azerbaijani side.

Ayvazians resignation was followed by the resignations of all four of his deputies. The resignation of one deputy minister, Armen Ghevondian, was not accepted by the government and he continued to serve not to leave the ministry without the leadership altogether.

Lawmaker Artur Hovannisian, a member of the Civil Contract party, confirmed that Grigorian is also their candidate for the post of foreign minister. He said that there was a discussion within the party on this issue. There are difficult processes that we must go through, and, yes, we need people who can make decisions in difficult situations based on the interests of the Republic of Armenia and implement these decisions, he said.

For the first time since coming to power Pashinian has made an appointment in the Foreign Ministry, bypassing the diplomatic corps. Acting Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Avinian said that the political appointment is needed for establishing a certain connection between the diplomatic corps and the political leadership in order to remove the differences that have existed to some extent. I think that on the whole this is a positive appointment, Avinian said.

Grigorian was one of the few officials who criticized the decision of the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) not to support Armenia in its current border standoff with Azerbaijan, advising that the CSTOs secretary-general show restraint in his public remarks.

Political analyst Armen Baghdasarian believes that if Grigorian is appointed foreign minister, there will be drastic changes as Armenia will start pursuing a pro-Western foreign policy.

Considering his track record, his numerous statements, I think it will be very difficult for him to pursue a pro-Russian foreign policy. In case of a sharp change in Armenias foreign policy, Russia will try to react as harshly as possible, Baghdasarian said.

Baghdasarian believes that career diplomats would not agree to cardinal changes in Armenias foreign policy, so Pashinian has been looking for a candidate for the top post outside the Foreign Ministry.

It is searching for and finding allies that is the main task of diplomacy. But Armenias dependence on Russia today in all respects, and primarily in the security sphere, is so great that I think it would not be a reasonable decision to appoint someone whom Russia absolutely does not trust, he said.
He said Armenia will use its military alliance with Russia to neutralize such threats.

Speaking on Wednesday, Aliyev complained that Yerevan is reluctant to sign a peace treaty with Baku eight months after a Russian-brokered ceasefire stopped the war in Karabakh. He said such a treaty must commit the two sides to recognizing each others territorial integrity.

This would presumably mean a formal Armenian recognition of Azerbaijani sovereignty over Karabakh.

The Armenians must think carefully about that because it could be too late for them in the future, said Aliyev.

In that context, he again referred to much of Armenias territory, including the capital Yerevan, as historical Azerbaijani lands and said Azerbaijanis will eventually return to their ancestral lands.

Pashinian hit back at Aliyev as he opened a weekly meeting of his cabinet in Yerevan. He said Baku is hampering regional peace and stability with statements threatening Armenias sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Armenia will defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity by all possible and impossible means, including the mechanisms of the joint Russian-Armenian military contingent and the Collective Security Treaty Organization, something about which we have been holding consultations with our partners, he said.

Pashinian also pointed to Aliyevs repeated threats to forcibly open a corridor connecting Azerbaijan to its Nakhichevan exclave via Armenias Syunik province. He said they run counter to the terms of the truce agreement brokered by Russian President Vladimir Putin on November 9.

The agreement commits Yerevan to opening rail and road links between Nakhichevan and the rest of Azerbaijan. Armenia should be able, for its part, to use Azerbaijani territory as a transit route for cargo shipments to and from Russia and Iran.

At a January meeting in Moscow, Putin, Aliyev and Pashinian agreed to set up a trilateral working group tasked with working out practical modalities of reopening the transport links. The group co-headed by deputy prime ministers of the three states held several meetings in the following months.

Pashinian claimed that Aliyevs threats are aimed at disrupting the groups quite constructive and productive activities.

Citing statements made by the U.S., Russian and French mediators co-heading the OSCE Minsk Group, he further disputed Aliyevs fresh claim that Azerbaijani unilaterally resolved the Karabakh conflict with its victory in the six-week war. He made clear that Yerevan will continue to pursue the realization of the Karabakh peoples right to self-determination.
Prime Minister Nikol Pashinians government announced plans to introduce the 15 percent export duty at an emergency meeting held on Monday. It said that international prices of copper and molybdenum, Armenias number one export item, have risen significantly over the past year, allowing mining companies to make excessive profits.

Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigorian objected to the measure during the cabinet meeting, saying that its implementation would be fraught with risks to the domestic economy. Pashinian dismissed Grigorians concerns.

The outgoing National Assembly promptly adopted relevant government-drafted amendments to an Armenian law on state duties.

Economy Minister Vahan Kerobian said the tax hike is expected to earn the government about 35 billion drams ($70 million) in additional tax revenues in the second half of this year.

Kerobian denied that the main purpose of the measure is to hurt owners and senior executives of the Zangezur Copper-Molybdenum Combine (ZCMC), the countrys largest industrial enterprise based in Kajaran, a town in southeastern Syunik province.

ZCMCs board of directors comprises Vahe Hakobian, a senior member of the opposition Hayastan bloc led by former President Robert Kocharian. The mayors of Kajaran and several other communities of Syunik are also affiliated with the bloc that finished second in the June 20 parliamentary elections.

During the election campaign Pashinian vowed to crack down on ZCMCs corrupt owners and wage political vendettas against local government officials supporting the opposition. He claimed that the mining company banned its employees from attending his campaign rally in Kajaran.

Over the past week, the elected mayors of Kajaran and the towns of Meghri and Agarak and two local government officials from another Syunik community have been arrested on different charges denied by them. Law-enforcement authorities moved on Thursday to arrest two other Syunik mayors affiliated with Hayastan.

Kocharians bloc has strongly condemned the arrests, saying that Pashinians administration is trying to suppress the countrys leading opposition force. The authorities deny any political motives behind the arrests.

Anna Grigorian, a Syunik-based parliamentarian representing Hayastan, insisted the new mining tax is part of the government crackdown. During the election campaign they [the authorities] made no secret of their plans to go down this path, she said.

On Wednesday masked officers of the National Security Service reportedly searched and sealed ZCMCs administrative offices in Kajaran and detained three company executives. The NSS did not comment on the raid as of Thursday evening.

Earlier this week, ZCMC said that the Armenian customs service is refusing without any explanation to allow more than 70 rail cars laden with its copper and molybdenum ore concentrates to leave the country.

According to the State Revenue Committee, the mining giant employing more than 4,000 people paid 41.7 billion drams ($84 million) in various taxes last year, making it Armenias third largest corporate taxpayer.
Under an agreement signed by Air Arabia and the Armenian National Interests Fund (ANIF) on Wednesday, the new airline will operate as their joint venture and use Yerevans Zvartnots international airport as its base.

The new company will adopt the low-cost business model operated by Air Arabia, the two sides said in a joint statement.

Work on securing the Air Operating Certificate (AOC)  which allows the airline to start operating  will commence shortly. More details about the launch date, fleet, and destination network will be announced in due course, added the statement.

We see tremendous potential for Armenia in building its airline sector, which will add sustained value to the economy through job creation and the development of travel and tourism sector, it quoted Air Arabias chief executive, Adel Al Ali, as saying.

Tatevik Revazian, the head of the Armenian governments Civil Aviation Committee, also stressed the economic significance of the deal when she spoke with RFE/RLs Armenian Service on Thursday.

The benefits of this project are very clear, she said. A large number of jobs will be created directly and indirectly. Aviation is an engine of economic development. We will have a very serious instrument for developing our economy.

Armenia has had no major domestic airlines ever since the state-backed Armavia carrier went bankrupt in 2013. The bankruptcy led the then Armenian government to liberalize the countrys aviation sector.

The decision allowed local and foreign carriers meeting safety standards to carry out flights to and from Armenia without any restrictions. The South Caucasus countrys air traffic with the outside world grew rapidly in the following years.

Revazian insisted that the new national airline will not be in a privileged position vis-a-vis small private carriers currently operating in Armenia. Nor will it prevent more foreign airlines from launching flights to Armenia, she said.

Competition is a healthy thing for everyone, said the official. It makes everyone work better.

Air Arabia already operates a regular flight service between the Emirati city of Sharjah and Yerevan. Its chairman, Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammed Al Thani, attended Wednesdays signing ceremony in Yerevan.

Al Thani also held separate meetings with President Armen Sarkissian and Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian.

"Armenia is currently going through a rather difficult period, Sarkissian told Al Thani. We appreciate our friends who are by our side, especially at this stage, starting new cooperation with a new project in Armenia.
In the last 7 months, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents have seized more fentanyl than the total for the year before, according to data from the agency.
PEORIA, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) -- An armed woman was hospitalized after investigators said Peoria police shot her Thursday afternoon.

According to a Peoria police spokesperson, the shooting happened just west of 67th Avenue along Peoria Avenue shortly before 2 p.m. The woman, later identified as 24-year-old Marissa Maguira, broke into some cars in the area, detectives said. When police confronted her, Burton had a gun and pointed it at them. She fired shots and two officers returned fire, investigators said. Police say Burton hit in the cheek and was taken to the hospital, but was released shortly after that. No police officers or witnesses were hurt.

Burton will be booked into jail on several charges including aggravated assault, police said. The Glendale Police Department will investigate the shooting.

Mesa police shoot armed woman during confrontation According to Mesa Police Assistant Chief Ed Wessing, a sergeant demanded the woman drop her weapon multiple times, but she refused and was shot by police.

This is the 37th shooting involving police in Maricopa County this year, and the third incident this week. Late Wednesday night, an armed woman was shot by police in Mesa. On Tuesday, an off-duty Glendale officer exchanged gunfire with a suspect who he saw driving erratically through a neighborhood.

Editor's Note: The Peoria Police Department said Friday morning that the suspect provided a fake name and date of birth to officers at the time of her arrest. All mentions have been updated to reflect the correct identity.
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Bluefield, WV (24701)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun during the morning will give way to cloudy skies this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 78F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Considerable cloudiness. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 61F. Winds light and variable.
Bluefield, WV (24701)

Today

Partly to mostly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 78F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 61F. Winds light and variable.
After another prolonged negotiation meeting ended without a contract Tuesday, ExxonMobil is preparing to operate with contractors for the foreseeable future.

Earlier this week, the company published an informational update for employees stating it would start training another class of contracted operators, which would be its third group since the lockout of more than 620 regular employees began in May.

While the organization will continue to be staffed primarily by fully-trained supervisors who started their careers in the field, we will continue to train and collaborate with competent contract work staff, representatives for the company wrote in an update. We expect contracting agencies to begin working to fill our needs as early as next week.

The company said it was making the step after seeing little progress from the United Steelworkers Union toward its position, despite meeting four different times since June 10.

The announcement comes in contrast to reports from the USW, which reportedly presented five different proposals to the company last week, all of which were rejected.

Richard Hoot Landry, USW District 13 staff representative, told the Enterprise last week conversations between the company and local bargaining committee had actually ended more positively than usual.

On Thursday, he said it had to be assumed that the companys statements were intended to intimidate employees and sow discord between the members.

They told us before at the table that we were moving in the right direction, Landry said. Im still trying to figure out why they would say they are disappointed when we are finding common ground.

Instead of a sign that ExxonMobil is digging in for an extended lockout, union leaders believe the company could be trying to draw attention away from the number of contractors it has had to train and recruit in order to keep meeting production obligations.

Regardless of discord at the negotiation table, ExxonMobil said its move to prepare for the long-term without its employees didnt mean an end to negotiations.

Later in the week, USW and ExxonMobil are supposed to start sub-committee meetings to discuss progressive raises for employees of its blending and packaging plant.

It is also worth clarifying that our USW represented employees remain employed by the Company while locked-out and we look forward to welcoming them back when there is a ratified contract, representatives wrote in a statement.

jacob.dick@beaumontenterprise.com

twitter.com/jd_journalism
Pancho Claus may be a fictional incarnation, but his influence within Houston's Hispanic community is just as real as the love they have for him.

The Mexican-American Santa Claus has been around for decades, dressed in a zoot suit and pushing a low-rider to deliver thousands of toys to children during Christmas. He's been painted on the walls of Washateria Las Americas since 1994.

WHAT ABOUT US? Third Ward residents say they're being forced out as gentrification moves in

Camilo Smith Houston Chronicle

The mural features a mariachi musician and an astronaut with the Houston skyline in the background, all centered around an image of the beloved community figure, per Houston's Chronicle's Olivia P Tallet.

Building owners Houston Avocado Company have since painted over the mural, leaving nothing behind except feelings of erasure and disappointment.

They took down a mural that was really a Latino history type of mural, said Richard Reyes, the creator and performer behind Pancho Claus, per Tallet. I was (painted) in the mural but it was really a larger story because it had everything from Zapatistas to immigrants to Latino astronauts."

Houston Avocado Company said the mural was in bad shape and that no one from the community approached them about the mural's condition or proposed a restoration initiative, indicating that something could have been worked out.

FOR THE CULTURE: Reginald Adams opens up about 'Absolute Equality' and the role of Juneteenth in Galveston

Reyes said he's not mad about the property owners' decision to paint over the mural, but it does raise larger questions about what the community can do to ensure it doesn't continue happening moving forward.

The company is considering demolishing the structure to make room for expansion at the nearby Houston Avocado Company facility.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP)  Two men have pleaded guilty to participating in a lottery scam that cheated victims in multiple states out of a total of about $600,000, federal prosecutors in Rhode Island said Thursday.

Kayan Kitson, 38, pleaded guilty Thursday in U.S. District Court in Providence to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud. Jason Wedderburn, 42, pleaded guilty to the same charge earlier this week.
American diplomats are escalating a charm offensive with Central Asian leaders this week as they work to secure a close-by spot to respond to any resurgence of outside militants in Afghanistan after the U.S. military withdraws.

But even as high-level U.S. diplomats head to the region, they're meeting with more doubts from Afghanistan's neighbors about any such security partnering with the United States. That stands in contrast to 2001, when Central Asian countries made available their territory for U.S. bases, troops and other access as America hit back for the 9/11 attacks plotted by al-Qaida in Afghanistan.

Theres distrust of the U.S. as a reliable long-term partner, after an only partly successful war in Afghanistan and after years of widely fluctuating U.S. engagement regionally and globally, former American diplomats say. Theres Russia, blasting out this week that a permanent U.S. military base in its Central Asia sphere of influence would be unacceptable.

Meanwhile, the Taliban leadership, more internationally savvy than it had been in 2001, has been visiting regional capitals and Moscow this summer in a diplomatic push of its own, offering broad pledges that it will pursue regional security, peace and trade whatever comes of its fight with the Kabul government.

I mean, I personally can see the value of an American base in Central Asia, but I'm not sure the Central Asian states see such value" currently, said John Herbst, who as U.S. ambassador to Uzbekistan helped arrange military access in Central Asia in 2001.

We've taken a hit through our failures in Afghanistan in credibility, Herbst said, after the U.S. neutralized al-Qaida in Afghanistan but struggled in fighting against the fundamentalist Taliban and in trying to strengthen a Kabul-based state. Is that a mortal hit? Probably not. But it's still a very powerful factor."

The former Soviet republics of Central Asia, which neighbor Afghanistan, watched years of fervent democracy-building calls abroad by the United States, then watched President Barack Obama disengage to an extent, and then President Donald Trump almost entirely, says Jennifer Brick Murtazashvili, a former U.S. Agency for International Development official in Central Asia, now a researcher on the region at the University of Pittsburgh.

I think it made the U.S. seem sort of aimless, Murtazashvili said. The U.S. hasn't had a very strong strategy, or a strong presence, in Central Asia for a long time.

But relations with Central Asia are now a security issue for the Biden administration as it seeks to make sure the fundamentalist Taliban doesnt again allow foreign Islamist extremists to use Afghanistan as a base to mount attacks on the United States or other outside targets.

State Department spokesperson Ned Price said Wednesday that the Central Asian nations will make sovereign decisions about their level of the cooperation with the United States" after the Afghanistan withdrawal.

Its not only in our interests and, in fact, it is much more and certainly in the immediate interests of Afghanistans neighbors that Afghanistan be stable and secure, Price said.

The administration has given few details of what kind of security access it is seeking in the region, or from which countries. While the U.S. can manage strike and counterterror capability for Afghanistan from Gulf nations or from U.S. aircraft carriers, closer is much better. That's especially true for intelligence operations to track developments in Afghanistan.

Any such agreement would likely be discreet.

The U.S. also reportedly looked at neighboring countries for the temporary relocation of Afghan translators and other U.S. employees.

Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby confirmed this week that the United States still was actively courting countries in Central Asia. We are talking about and discussing with countries in the region about the possibilities of being able to use facilities and infrastructure" closer to Afghanistan, he said.

To that end, the Biden administration invited the foreign ministers of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan to Washington earlier this month, shining the bright light of U.S. diplomacy on them.

And Biden's homeland security adviser, Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall, joined by U.S.-Afghanistan special representative Zalmay Khalilzad, headed with other Americans to a conference opening Thursday in Uzbekistan's capital drawing foreign ministers and presidents of almost all the regional countries and powers.

All are countries urgently and directly affected by whether Afghanistan again becomes a refuge for extremism upon the U.S. withdrawal.

For landlocked Uzbekistan, hopes of rapidly reaching outside markets hinge on completing a railroad to Pakistan's seaports  through Afghanistan.

For us, it is vitally important, Uzbekistan's ambassador to the U.S., Javlon Vakhabov, said. Afghanistan's U.S.-backed government in Kabul has promised its support for the project, and probably more importantly, so have Taliban leaders, in two visits to Uzbekistan.

We've been reassured that these people would not attack or ... harm the project, Vakhabov said.

Uzbek law meant to keep the former Soviet republic from aligning with any bloc now prohibits the country from hosting any foreign base or counterterror effort, he said, while stressing his country's positive feelings for the United States.

The region waits now to see if the Taliban makes good on its pledge to be a good neighbor, despite what may happen among Afghanistan's rival forces. If not, cooperation with U.S. security aims will likely increase, former diplomats said.

All the countries in the region, they have to worry about Taliban intentions. If the Taliban behaves, than great for them, Herbst, the former U.S. ambassador, said. If the Taliban doesn't behave, they need some help  and help from us.

___

AP Diplomatic Writer Matthew Lee contributed to this report.
HONOLULU (AP)  A Native Hawaiian congressman has introduced legislation to change requirements for passing down Hawaiian homestead leases to relatives.

Under federal law, about 200,000 acres across Hawaii are reserved for Native Hawaiian people who have at least 50% Hawaiian blood.

Families who have obtained leases to those acres may pass them on to spouses, children, grandchildren and siblings who have at least 1/4 Hawaiian blood.

U.S. Rep. Kaialii Kahele's proposal would lower this blood quantum requirement for passing down leases to 1/32.

The circumstances of Patrick Kahawaiolaa, the president of the Keaukaha Community Association, which is the oldest Hawaiian homestead community on the Big Island, illustrate the challenges facing families.

Under the current law, Kahawaiolaa's children may inherit his lease. But if his children dont marry Native Hawaiians, his grandkids may not qualify.

The blood quantum policy in the 1921 Hawaiian Homes Commission Act is a divisive issue in the Native Hawaiian community, Cedric Duarte, spokesman for the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, told Hawaii Public Radio.

The 50% amount was a compromise by Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole, who spearheaded efforts to create the program.

It was never Kuhios intent to apply any sort of limit or blood quantum, Duarte said.

Ranchers and sugar plantation interests lobbied to limit the program to full-blooded Hawaiians, while Kuhio insisted on a blood quantum of 1/32.

File cabinets at the department contain birth certificates and other vital records that can help applicants prove they are at least 50% Native Hawaiian.
HONOLULU (AP)  The governor of Hawaii is warning tourists to stay away from endangered monk seals.

Democratic Gov. David Ige took to social media Wednesday after videos of visitors touching the seals led to a federal investigation and fines.

Ige said in a post on Twitter that anyone caught disturbing a seal will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

He added: I want to be clear that this behavior is absolutely unacceptable. Visitors to our islands  youre asked to respect our people, culture, and laws protecting endangered species that are found nowhere else in the world.

Two widely circulated videos of visitors touching monk seals angered some Hawaii residents, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported Thursday.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said it will investigate the incidents.

One video shows a Louisiana woman touching a seal on Kauai.

When people feel like Hawaii is being disrespected by visitors who are looking for social media clout, the response is going to always be outrage, Kauai Prosecuting Attorney Justin Kollar said.

There are an estimated 1,100 Hawaiian monk seals in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and 300 in the main Hawaiian Islands. Its a felony under state and federal laws to touch or harass Hawaiian monk seals. Violations can include penalties of up to five years in prison and a $50,000 fine.
RICHMOND, Va. (AP)  A New Zealand man who was shot while allegedly trying to kidnap a 14-year-old Virginia girl he met online has reached a plea agreement with federal prosecutors.

Troy George Skinner, 28, of Auckland, New Zealand, was scheduled to face trial next month on two counts of attempted kidnapping and nine counts related to the production of child pornography. But electronic court records show that the jury selection process was terminated last week and a plea agreement hearing in the case has been scheduled for July 29.

Skinner was arrested in June 2018 after he showed up at the Goochland home of the girl and tried to break in. Authorities said the girls mother warned him several times that she had a gun, then shot him after he broke the glass on the second door he tried to open. Skinner recovered from a bullet wound to his neck.

It was not immediately clear what charges are included in the plea agreement. A spokeswoman for Acting U.S. Attorney Raj Parekh declined to comment on the terms of the agreement. Skinner's lawyers did not return telephone messages and emails seeking comment.

Federal authorities said Skinner met the girl online in December 2017, when he was 24 and she was 13, although she told him she was 16, an FBI agent wrote in an affidavit when he applied for a warrant to search Skinner's cell phones. They communicated via chat sessions and livestream video sessions, and had an online sexual relationship, according to the affidavit.

Authorities have not named the girl because of her age. In court documents, prosecutors said that when the girl tried to end their relationship, Skinner started harassing her and attempting to manipulate her with threats of suicide. The girl eventually cut off contact with Skinner.

Skinner left Auckland on June 20, 2018, traveled to the U.S. and arrived at the girls house uninvited on June 22 after stopping at a Walmart store and buying pepper spray, a folding knife and duct tape, according to the affidavit.

Former Goochland County Sheriff James Agnew said the girl, her teenage sister and her mother saw Skinner attempting to break in to their home. He disclosed that information in the days after Skinner's arrest.

Agnew said Skinner first tried to break down a basement door with a brick and appeared to ignore warnings from the girls mother that she was armed. Agnew said Skinner then climbed some steps to the deck and smashed a glass door with the brick. He said the girls mother warned Skinner again that she had a gun, but he reached in to try to unlock the door. She fired twice, hitting him once in the neck, Agnew said. Skinner collapsed in a neighbors yard.

A federal indictment filed against Skinner in September 2019 alleges that Skinner, while in New Zealand, induced the girl to engage in sexually explicit conduct to produce child pornography.

Skinner pleaded not guilty to the charges. His lawyers argued that because all of Skinner's contact with the girl was virtual and the two never physically touched each other, the images did not constitute child pornography.

The details of his plea agreement with prosecutors are expected to be revealed during the July 29 hearing in U.S. District Court in Richmond. He faces the possibility of decades in prison, but it is unclear what kind of sentencing recommendation could be included in the plea agreement.
Kim Brent / The Enterprise

Nine people, who were arrested last July on suspicion of drug trafficking conspiracy and money laundering during a Nederland fireworks shop, raid will stand trial soon.

The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Texas told The Enterprise that the defendants in the federal case are then expected to go to trial before U.S. District Court Judge Thad Heartfield on Sept. 21.
CURTIS BAY, Md. (AP)  A Baltimore police officer has been charged with murder in the death of his teenaged stepson, whose body was found in a hole in a bedroom wall last week, Anne Arundel County police announced Wednesday.

The death of 15-year-old Dasan Jones was ruled a homicide by asphyxiation and the teen's stepfather, Eric Banks, has been charged with first- and second-degree murder and child abuse resulting in death, police said. Banks had been in custody since he was charged with trying to disarm a police officer after Jones' body was found.

Officers were called to Banks' home July 6 to investigate a complaint that Jones was being held against his will. At first, Banks told police Jones wasnt there and had left his packed bags at the back door. After Banks gave police permission to search the home, officers found Jones' body in a hole in a bedroom wall.

After Banks was arrested and handcuffed, he tried to disarm an officer. As he fought with police, Banks said "My life is over" and choke me choke me," police said. Banks was held without bail on assault, resisting arrest and other charges.

Banks police powers were already suspended based on a previous incident and he was suspended without pay after he was charged with a felony. Police did not say what the previous incident was.

The alleged actions of Officer Banks are not only deplorable, but shocking to the conscience," Baltimore Police Commissioner Michael Harrison said in a statement released after the charges were announced. "This is a classic example of why I have advocated for the autonomy and authority to terminate officers when they are facing heinous criminal allegations.

The Baltimore Sun reports that Banks and his wife, the teen's mother, had filed for protective orders against each other in the two months before the teen's death. Banks petitioned for a protective order in May, accusing his wife of threatening him and making false complaints about him, then withdrew it two days later. In June, Banks' wife petitioned, saying Banks was stalking her, and was denied.

She obtained a protective order the day her son's body was found.

Banks attorney Warren Brown told the newspaper that Banks tried to kill himself a day before the teens body was found. Banks asserted that he found the teen dead in a bathtub and that he believed the boy had killed himself, Brown said.
If theres anything worse than shivering through the February freeze in darkened, powerless homes, it would be paying for the oversight that caused it even though it wasnt your responsibility. Unfortunately, that is what Texas consumers are looking at - unless lawmakers step up and put this burden where it belongs. Those two sources are utility companies, and to a lesser extent, the states Rainy Day Fund.

In the regular legislative session that ended in May, lawmakers properly required weatherization upgrades for power plants - but didnt decide who should pay for it. Most electricity providers plan to shift those costs to consumers in the form of billions of dollars in higher natural gas and electric bills for decades.

Thats not fair, especially since most utility companies made good profits in the past decade - in part because they didnt spend as much as necessary on winterizing their plants. A few utilities did make this investment but are now being penalized for their precautions because other companies that didnt are getting subsidies now to cover this expense.

Here we go again, said Tim Morstad, associate state director of AARP Texas. Private power companies that pocket profits during good times now seek to pad a fee onto ratepayer bills to pay for improvements they should have made long ago.

Since Gov. Greg Abbott is apparently going to be calling several special legislative sessions in the coming months, especially in view of the Democratic Party walkout in the current one, he could easily add this topic to a future agenda.

In addition to requiring utility companies to paying more of these costs, the Legislature should tap into some of the Rainy Day Fund for this expense. Its currently more than $11 billion, and with the oil and gas industry stabilizing this year, its short-term future looks good. Lawmakers have been good about not raiding this nest egg for routine expenses, but special occasions like this call for special measures. They could allocate $1 billion or $2 billion from this fund and it would still be in excellent shape. Sitting on a huge balance while consumers need help now makes little sense.

As the reality of climate change settles over Texas and the nation, weather extremes are probably going to become more common in future years. That means some colder weather in winters - like what we saw in February - and even longer and hotter summers, which are already challenging enough in Texas.

Most consumers will be struggling to pay these higher heating and cooling costs. If they have to bear the extra burden of weatherizing power plants, their bills could be more than they can handle. The Legislature can lessen that burden - but it must act soon.
Sapiah binti Mat Ajat, 80, gets a shot of Sinovacs COVID-19 vaccine at home, administered by a healthcare worker in Sabak Bernam, Malaysia, July 1, 2021.

Malaysia will stop using Chinas Sinovac COVID-19 vaccine, the health minister said Thursday without specifying why, days after Thailand and Indonesia announced that many of their citizens would get a non-Sinovac booster jab if they had received the Chinese shot.

Thailand and Indonesia announced their policies on a booster shot amid growing concerns about the effectiveness of the Chinese-made vaccine, and after some people in those countries died of the coronavirus despite being inoculated with two shots of Sinovac.

After authorities in Kelantan said the state would stop using Sinovac, Malaysian Health Minister Adham Baba confirmed the move and said it would soon apply nationwide because the country had ordered more vaccines from another company.

So, it started in Kelantan and soon other states will follow. As a replacement [for Sinovac] for the rest of the population that will be vaccinated, we will give Pfizers [vaccine], Adham said at a press briefing.

[W]e have secured 45.7 million [doses] of Pfizer compared to 16 million doses of Sinovac. Half of the Sinovac vaccines were already given and we will use the other half for the second dose.

Health Director-General Noor Hisham told reporters at the same briefing that the main vaccine for the countrys COVID-19 inoculation program would now be the American-made Pfizer shot.

Basically, it is because we have sufficient supply of the Pfizer vaccines  so now the main vaccine that will be used is the Pfizer vaccine, Noor Hisham said.

For those who have not yet been vaccinated, they will get the Pfizer vaccine.

Malaysia did not offer any other reason for stopping Sinovac inoculations.

On Monday, Thailands government said that it planned to give AstraZeneca jabs to those who had received the Sinovac vaccine as their first jab. The decision came after unconfirmed reports about the low efficacy of Sinovac and the weekend death of a nurse who was given both shots of the Chinese jab.

Last week, Indonesia said it planned to give a third vaccination to many of the 1.47 million medical workers inoculated with Sinovac, using a jab developed by Moderna  another American drug firm  to protect them from the highly contagious Delta variant of COVID-19.

An Indonesian volunteer group that keeps tabs on pandemic data, LaporCOVID-19, said more than 1,100 health workers had succumbed to the virus since the start of the pandemic. At least 85 had died this month although some had been fully vaccinated with Sinovac.

Another grim infections record

Malaysia is in the throes of a huge rise in coronavirus infections.

On Thursday, the country broke the daily case record for the third day in a row, reporting 13,215 new infections, bringing the total caseload to 880,782. With 110 new virus-related deaths, the pandemics death toll here rose to 6,613.

Noor Hisham said the Delta variant was the cause of this infection spike, and was currently the dominant strain in the country.

The Delta variant can infect after a mere 15 seconds of close contact with a positive case, compared with 15 minutes that previous variants had shown, he said.

Malaysia, too, was mulling mixing vaccines, reportedly to boost efficacy against different COVID-19 variants, but as of July 1 that idea was no longer on the table as the government felt that data on mixing vaccines was still inconclusive.

Malaysia has said that it would need to inoculate 80 percent of the population  26.2 million people  for herd immunity.

As of Thursday, 8.65 million had received at least one jab of vaccine. Of them, 4 million were fully inoculated.

Malaysia now has one of the fastest vaccination rates in the world, administering more than 400,000 doses a day, The Sydney Morning Herald reported Thursday.

Malaysias vaccine supply currently consists of jabs from Pfizer, AstraZeneca and Sinovac. Single-dose vaccines, Chinas Cansino and the American Johnson & Johnson, were recently approved for use by the countrys drug administration.

As of June 21, Malaysia had in hand 4.08 million doses of the Pfizer vaccine, 3.69 million doses of Sinovac and 828,000 doses of AstraZenecas jabs, the Ministry of Health said in a tweet.

Subsequently, on July 5, Malaysia received 1 million doses of Pfizer from the United States, which is giving away its excess vaccines.

Under a renegotiated deal with Pfizer, Malaysia is set to receive 25 million doses between July and September, Khairy Jamaluddin, the minister in charge of the vaccine rollout, told the Morning Herald.
Filipino fishermen and activists call for Beijings ships to leave Philippine waters in the South China Sea, during a rally outside the Chinese consulate in Metro Manila, July 12, 2021.

A U.S.-based geospatial imaging-analysis firm on Thursday defended its report alleging that anchored Chinese ships were dumping raw sewage in Philippine territorial reefs in the South China Sea, causing environmental destruction that could take decades to recover.

Officials in Beijing have rebuked the report by the company Simularity, Sewage from Anchored Ships is Damaging Spratly Reefs, while officials in the Philippines questioned its accuracy. The Chinese foreign ministry spokesman described it as a joke. In Manila, the Philippine defense chief called for an investigation into the reports allegations despite casting doubt.

Simularity found high concentrations of chlorophyll-a around hundreds of ships moored around the Spratly Islands, said Liz Derr, the firms co-founder and CEO, adding this indicated an abundance of phytoplankton and plant material  including fleshy algae  in the water and on the reefs.

In terms of determining where that chlorophyll is coming from, its a bit of a smoking gun that we are seeing big blooms of plants right where the ships are, Derr told the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) during an online forum on Thursday.

Simularity said it had compared recent satellite images of Philippine-territorial reefs with ones taken in 2016 and found a significant increase in areas that appeared white  or those covered in chlorophyll-a  and a decrease in dark areas  or those that lacked chlorophyll.

Ive really got no other explanation for why theres this big bloom of plants and chlorophyll right next to these ships, Derr said.

To rule out other factors that may be causing this overgrowth, such as climate change or rising ocean temperatures, Derr said Singularity looked for but could not find unoccupied reefs for comparison.

Excess phytoplankton can deplete oxygen in the water, asphyxiate fish and other marine life, according to marine experts. The uncontrolled growth of algae and other plants can overtake coral reefs and destroy marine habitat.

The excess nutrients in sewage are causing elevated concentrations of chlorophyll-a, leading to a cascade of reef damage that can take decades to recover, the report said in its summary.

During his daily media briefing on Thursday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian did not name the company but mocked its findings.

This is one of the best jokes recently. China strongly condemns the U.S. firm who distort[s] facts, violates professional ethics and maliciously start[s] rumors to denigrate China, he said.

The spokesman said China was willing to work with its neighbors to uphold peace and stability in the South China Sea.

China claims nearly all of the strategic waterway as its own, while Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam have their own territorial claims. Indonesia does not regard itself as a party to territorial disputes in the South China Sea, despite Beijing claiming historic rights to parts of the maritime region that overlap Indonesias exclusive economic zone.

Simularity based its report on satellite images which, it said, linked chlorophyll-a concentrations to Chinese ships anchored within Manilas exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

For this report we only used images from the European Space Agency, primarily because they are freely available, and enable anyone to reproduce our results, Derr told BenarNews in an email. Our research is based solely on analysis of the satellite images, and freely available imagery, algorithms, and scientific papers that validate our approach.

Simularity published its report on Monday, the fifth anniversary of a landmark international case in which the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled in favor of Manila in a Philippines lawsuit against Chinas extensive claims in the South China Sea.

The reports lead photo showing a ship discharging waste at Australias Great Barrier Reef was taken in 2014.

Honing in on that image, Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Tuesday questioned the reports findings.

Therefore, this intent to mislead has cast great doubt on the accurateness of the Simularity Report, he said while challenging conclusions based solely on satellite images.

Be that as it may, I have directed the Western Command who has jurisdiction over the WPS to verify and investigate, Lorenzana said, using an acronym for the West Philippine Sea, Manilas term for its South China Sea territories.

During her virtual meeting with Philippine journalists, Derr addressed concerns about the photo. She said it was used to illustrate the story, while conceding that the credit line for its source was small.

It was for context, because it was really hard to see that and understand it from the satellite imagery. At this point, I do regret it because it created some misunderstandings that I think have derailed the message a little bit. Our research is not based on that image, Derr said.

Chinese ships in Philippine waters

In March, security officials in Manila reported that about 220 ships, including some they alleged were manned by Chinese maritime militia, had anchored in Philippine waters, setting off a diplomatic spat.

Beijing claimed the ships were fishing boats taking shelter from bad weather, and insisted the area was its territory. It called Manilas complaint an unnecessary irritation.

Philippine officials later noted that Chinese ships lingered at Whitsun Reef and other waters of the EEZ. In April, Manilas foreign office started filing daily diplomatic protests demanding Beijing remove the ships.

On June 17, Simularity counted what it identified as at least 236 ships in the Union Banks and 11 others around Thitu Island, a civilian-inhabited outpost controlled by Manila. It estimated those ships were dumping at least 1,177 kg (2,594 pounds) of sewage at the Union Banks alone.

Derr told the journalists that dumping sewage into the sea was commonplace since international law allowed it beyond 12 nautical miles of any coast. The issue the study raised is the release of waste by ships anchored on reefs, a violation of international and Chinese laws.

China regulations stipulate that its ships may release sewage only when they are moving at a speed of at least four knots.

Ships dump sewage all day every day all over the world. This is not anything special. The fact that theyre not moving makes this a concern, Derr said.

She said the problem could be solved by directing ships to move away from reefs before dumping their sewage.

The waste is a problem and there are ways to resolve that problem that dont involve an international incident, she said.
Luang Prabang City street lined with French colonial-style buildings is shown in a photo taken in 2020.

A group of Thai and international organizations are urging the Thai government not to buy electric power from a major dam Laos is building on the Mekong River, saying that the dams operation will threaten the ancient Lao city of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The call comes ahead of a July 16-31 UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting scheduled to consider the impact of the 1,460 megawatt, U.S. $3 billion Luang Prabang Dam on protected areas.

The project will displace 581 families or 2,285 people and will affect 20 other villages in the northern Lao provinces of Luang Prabang and Oudomxay.

In a July 12 letter signed by six organizations and ten individuals, the group noted that work on the dam has already begun, reminding both the Thai government and the dams Thai-owned developer, the Ch. Karnchang Company, that a required heritage impact assessment (HIA) has not yet been completed.

UNESCO has called the town of Luang Prabang an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures with those built by the European colonial authorities in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Luang Prabang celebrated its 25th anniversary as a World Heritage Site last year.

Speaking to Radio Free Asia, a sister agency of BenarNews, on July 12, a representative of one of the letters signing groups pointed to the threats posed to the resources, culture, and livelihoods of the people of Luang Prabang town by construction of the dam, which is scheduled for completion in 2027.

These resources have already been impacted by other development, and if the Luang Prabang Dam is built, this will impact these resources even further, the representative said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

In March, Luang Prabang residents told RFAs Lao Service they were worried because the government had already begun construction on the project before its international approval process was complete.

Many expressed safety fears, saying the dam was too close to the city of 55,000 people.

At that time, three temporary ports had been completed, and service roads, a workers camp with water supply, and land clearance were about 99 percent complete. A Mekong river bridge, power lines and relay stations were in various stages of completion.

In July 2020, RFA reported after prior consultation on the Luang Prabang Dam had been completed in June, downriver Mekong nations Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand urged the developer to review the design of the dam to minimize the environmental, social, and trans-boundary impacts.

The site of the planned Luang Prabang Dam is seen in a July 12, 2021 satellite photo showing substantial construction work to build access roads and a sprawling work camp about 12 miles north of the World Heritage Site. [Courtesy Planet Labs Inc.]

All reports complete

Daovong Phonekeo, the Lao governments Minister of Energy and Mines, declined to comment on the letter, saying he had received no information about it, but an official of the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourisms World Heritage Department said that Laos has already completed all required impact reports.

Now, UNESCO is demanding a new world heritage impact assessment, he said.

Weve actually done an assessment that concluded the dam will have no impact on the [Luang Prabang City] world heritage site, either during the wet or the dry season. But UNESCO would not accept that assessment, he said.

Attempts by RFA to reach Thai authorities received no reply.

The protection of Luang Prabang City will be a major focus of the meetings beginning this week of UNESCOs World Heritage Committee, where the Committee will take decisions to ensure the preservation and safeguarding of the Outstanding Universal Value of [this] World Heritage property, Roni Amelan of the UNESCO Press Service told RFA by email on July 15.

The property has been subject to a number of World Heritage Committee decisions on its state of conservation since 1996, Amelan said.

The Luang Prabang Dam when completed will be part of a cascade of 11 Mekong mainstream dams that form the centerpiece of Laos controversial economic strategy to become the Battery of Southeast Asia by selling electric power to neighboring countries.

Though the Lao government sees power generation as a way to boost the countrys economy, the projects are controversial because of their environmental impact, displacement of villagers without adequate compensation, and questionable financial and power demand arrangements.

The 7th-century city, which served as royal capital and seat of government of the Kingdom of Laos from the countrys independence from France in 1953 until the communist takeover in 1975, has been a major center of tourism, a sector which brought in US$900 million a year before the 2020 pandemic shutdown.

Reported by RFAs Lao Service.
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Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Showers in the morning, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. High 76F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Clear skies with a few passing clouds. Low 62F. Winds light and variable.
Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Periods of rain. Rain becoming heavy at times overnight. Low 64F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall near an inch..

Tonight

Periods of rain. Rain becoming heavy at times overnight. Low 64F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall near an inch.
A Massachusetts man who used two children in his fentanyl selling operation has been sentenced to two years in prison
PITTSFIELD  The vast majority of criminal cases never make it to trial: Ninety to 95 percent are resolved by plea bargain instead.

But, what occurs during plea negotiations between prosecutors and defense lawyers happens outside the public eye, making it difficult to analyze trends in how prosecutors choose to exercise their discretion during sentencing.

A research initiative led by the Wilson Center for Science and Justice at Duke Law School in North Carolina aims to shed light on the issue.

Berkshire District Attorney Andrea Harrington and District Attorney Satana Deberry from Durham County in North Carolina are participating in a research project called The Plea Tracker. A third district attorney, David O. Leavitt, of Provo, Utah, is expected to join the initiative, too. The officials agreed to provide data about factors that prosecutors weigh when deciding to recommend prison, probation, dismissal or another case outcome.

There are three main areas of priority for my office that we have worked on developing a data tracking in this project; its racial justice, looking at regional disparities, and how we better empower victims, Harrington said during a virtual Thursday morning news conference.

Top of mind for Harrington is analyzing how well the office is serving the victims of crime, violent crime in particular, adding that the race of a victim has historically been a strong driver in case outcomes.

She wants Berkshire prosecutors to track the role of the victims input in our plea negotiations so that we can ensure that we are centering our victims appropriately and that were advocating for them equitably.

Harrington said she is concerned with regional disparities in the criminal justice system. While incarceration rates are declining in urban areas, according to Harrington, they are rising in rural communities. Meanwhile, Western Massachusetts is severely under-resourced when it comes to the availability of health care and trauma services, Harrington said.

Harrington said the plea tracker work builds on a Harvard study completed last year, which she said told us the things that we already know, but in really stark terms: That Black people receive sentences that are, on average, 168 days longer than white people, and Latino people receive sentences that are, on average, 148 days longer.

Since April, prosecutors in the Berkshire DAs office have been collecting information about plea bargains through online surveys. The prosecutors document factors including victim and defendant demographics, dangerousness risk, mental health and substance use treatment and the desires of crime victims.

The data will provide a first-of-its kind, detailed look into the actual negotiation processes across a range of cases, said Ronald Wright, a Wake Forest University law school professor and legal researcher.

That will illuminate how well prosecutors are living up to the promises they made on the campaign trail, and give journalists and other members of the public the information they need to analyze trends in cases that are resolved through plea bargains, he said.

Deberry said her office is focused on addressing racial disparities in our system and ensuring both defendants and victims are treated equitably.

Its through pleas that our country now has a system of mass incarceration that has disproportionately ensnared people of color, Deberry added.

In Berkshire County, prosecutors are using the online forms to report information to researchers, who will analyze the data and compile a report with their findings after one year of collection, ending around April 2022. Researchers also are working to centralize the data in an online dashboard tool, she said.

The aggregate data that we collect for the first year will be presented in a sort of formal report that would be available to the media. But, the actual data set itself is something thats owned by us as researchers, and the DA offices themselves, said Adele Quigley-McBride, a postdoctoral associate at Duke Laws Wilson Center who has been working on the project with Harringtons office.
LENOX  A proposal to locate a low-power cell antenna atop the state-subsidized Curtis housing complex is encountering high-voltage pushback from tenants and other residents concerned about claims of health impacts from wireless installations.

At Tuesdays monthly Lenox Housing Authority board meeting, Vice Chairwoman Kim Graham said no decisions were imminent on a lease application from the potential provider, Evolution Site Services of Pittsfield. The company is a regional developer of wireless communications facilities led by Christopher Ciolfi, who attended the meeting.

Quote I am going forward with this feeling confident, but sometimes the responsibilities of this board are not always going to be in agreement with the residents.  Kim Graham, vice chairwoman of the Lenox Housing Authority board, on the placing of a cellular telephone antenna on the Curtis

Ciolfi said he was approached by Verizon Wireless and was awarded the project by the Housing Authority, which reports to the states Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development, and by the town. Negotiations over a lease are incomplete as of this week, and needed town approvals also lie ahead.

The Curtis rooftop is the highest point in the downtown area, and the towns bylaw recommends using an existing structure rather than building a new free-standing tower, Ciolfi said. Were trying to work within the towns bylaw to reduce the visibility of the antennas, provide service and improve the coverage for the downtown area.

Meantime, the towns Planning Board continues to explore revisions in the bylaw governing telecommunications facilities.

Graham told nearly 50 residents attending Tuesdays meeting that the decision on placing the devices will be made by the town. After future informational forums and formal public hearings, the Lenox Zoning Board of Appeals will rule on a special permit for Ciolfis proposed lease agreement.

Its the third time in 15 years that a wireless installation has been discussed for the historic building, which was constructed in 1829 as a hotel and operated by the Curtis family since 1853. Under new ownership, it folded in 1976 and was purchased by the town in 1979 for subsidized housing.

Both of the previous wireless proposals, in 2002 and 2017, were shelved. The current application has been under discussion since spring 2020, after a 2019 town forum on wireless coverage gaps.

Trilby Miller, a registered nurse who lives at the Curtis, voiced concern about the health impact of wireless technology on babies and children.

It seems their developing brains are more susceptible to EMFs [electromagnetic fields] than are adult brains, she said.

She acknowledged ongoing debate about the effects on health from digital devices.

But I dont think theres any doubt that cell towers and antennas emit more concentrated frequencies of EMF radiation than digital devices and routers, Miller said. I find theres strong opposition to having a cell antenna or, eventually, multiple antennas on the roof of the Curtis.

She cited petitions circulated among more than 80 residents who are opposed to the installation.

Also, there are petitions circulating in the town for owners and concerned citizens who do not want a cell antenna on the historic Curtis Hotel in the heart of our town, she said.

Miller asked Lenox Housing Authority board members if they have any concern or responsibility to consider the health and welfare of your tenants.

Quote I find theres strong opposition to having a cell antenna or, eventually, multiple antennas on the roof of the Curtis.  Trilby Miller, a registered nurse who lives at the Curtis

Graham, the board vice chairman, acknowledged her concern as an individual.

I have done a lot of research, so, my responsibility to all of you is great, she said. I am going forward with this feeling confident, but sometimes the responsibilities of this board are not always going to be in agreement with the residents.

Several residents pushed back against the confidence, including Carol Ramsey, the tenants representative on the Housing Authority board who cited her own health sensitivities to computers.

Another tenant, discussing medical impacts, told the board that some people are very sensitive, but others arent. Your research showed you it was safe, but my research showed me it was not safe.

Graham said she believes the project would not be harmful.

I feel Im moving forth in a safe manner, speaking for myself, she said. We can agree to disagree.

Lenox mulls changes in its local telecommunications bylaw The Lenox Planning Board is at work on a bylaw proposal to regulate wireless communications facilities.

Also supporting the antenna were board Chairwoman Diana Kirby, who pointed to her belief that technology has come a long way in 20 years, and member Deborah Prew, who said that she felt very comfortable with the antenna.

Housing Authority Executive Director Barbara Heaphy also backs the project. The Curtis is the proposed location, she said, because it is the highest point in the area.

This is where cell service is a health and safety issue, including for ambulance and police, she said. I felt that was pretty important. I have not seen much that proves this is a real danger to anyones health.

Any frequency radiation from a cell antenna points upward, she noted. It would not come down.

Anthony Lepore, consultant to the town and the Housing Authority board, said the town will decide. Lepore is vice president and director of regulatory affairs for CityScape Consultants, a company he founded in 1995 that represents local governments on wireless technology issues. The firm is not affiliated with any tower owner or service provider.

He cited engineering studies showing that a vehicles electronic key fob produces more radio frequency exposure to people in close proximity than antennas on the roof would do.

Lepore said he believes residents of the Curtis, including elderly and handicapped tenants, are not at risk. According to the laws of physics, radio frequencies do not go down.

James Wilusz, executive director of Tri-Town Health Department, told the Curtis tenants that his group held an informational forum in October 2020, called Safe Cell Tower Siting. He urged residents to contact local, state and federal officials.

My biggest concern is advocacy for the town and public health in general, he said. Your voice is very powerful, and you need to take advantage of it.
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Vice President Kamala Harris leans in for a photograph with Stella Quatrini, after Harris spoke about the child tax credit at Brookline Memorial Recreation Center, Monday, in Pittsburgh. The payments for the tax credit will start being sent Thursday.
ADAMS  A printout showing a $6.5 million state wire transfer is today a treasured keepsake inside Adams Town Hall, after decades spent hunting support for one Greylock Glen project or another.

And yet, those steering plans for the now-approved outdoor recreation center still have another needle to thread.

The centers latest cost estimate was completed in November 2019, four months before the coronavirus pandemic began to create supply-chain problems and drive up prices for building materials, in some cases by 200 percent.

There are horror stories out there, said Donna Cesan, the Adams official who came back from retirement as community development director to shepherd the long-sought development.

Everyone knows it has volatility to it, she said of supply costs.

On Wednesday, Gov. Charlie Baker visited the Glen to put a kind of bow around the release of money, after decades of false starts on a slew of development plans for the thousand-acre state tract.

In an interview later, Cesan and Jay Green, the Adams town administrator, shared details of their game plan on making sure a quick start to construction isnt foiled by unexpectedly high bids.

When the town releases an invitation to bid next month, the document will break the Glen project into elements, with the core of the 11,000-square-foot building topping that list, Cesan said. Under the approach, known as bid alternates, companies interested in being tapped for the job provide bids not only for the entirety of the architects plan, but for significant pieces of it.

We can build the core of the building and, if we have to, we can add in phases, Cesan said.

For example, the design by Maclay Architects of Vermont calls for an approximately 1,000-square-foot space that will be occupied by an equipment outfitter serving those who visit the center. If bids come in higher than what was anticipated in late 2019, that piece of the project could be postponed, Cesan said, and a gear outfitter could set up an outdoor van or trailer temporarily to accommodate rentals.

We want to be smart about it, and public bidding is not an easy process, Green said.

Holding off on the retailers space, if needed, would enable construction to get started on the main elements of the center  its educational spaces, and food service and gathering rooms. Another bid alternate: gravel access roads, rather than paved.

Cesan said that despite the horror stories, the Vermont architect reports that for projects priced at about the time of the Glen center, the cost increase has been a more manageable 8.8 percent.

In an interview after his remarks at the Glen, Baker said there often is a spread in numbers when it comes to construction projects.

You typically put a contingency of some sort in there. Because stuff does happen most of the time in construction, the governor said. If there is some sort of an issue, or problems associated with the cost of goods or something else, well figure it out and make sure it happens. That will not be a problem with respect to getting this done.

Final design work

Cesan said she has a weekly call with the architect. Though all permits are in place and the centers design is complete, more work was needed to render plans for the system that will bring water into the new building.

Those additional steps include designing a small pump house.

There is some additional design work. That work is being done now, she said.

In addition to the $6.5 million released this spring by the state for the center, public money has prepared crucial infrastructure at the site.

The project has been advanced, for example, by a $2 million MassWorks grant that paid for new water and sewer systems and for Gould Road work. Another player has been the state Department of Conservation and Recreation, which made $3 million available for the venture after the town was designated as the Glen developer in December 2006. That money was used to advance planning and permitting and paid for work on hiking, biking and walking trails, among other things.

Adams invested as well. Residents committed nearly $1 million through the years, Cesan said in an earlier interview, not including staff time.
Scott Stafford has been a reporter, photographer, and editor at a variety of publications, including the Dallas Morning News and The Berkshire Eagle.
The Guthrie Center in Great Barrington will reopen Thursday with longtime Arlo Guthrie pal Rick Robbins telling some Ramblin Jack Elliott stories and singing some of his songs. Were having a regular hootenanny, said center director George Laye.
Attorney General Maura Healey announced July 1 that she had tapped Arwen Thoman, the deputy director of her insurance and financial services division, to fill the new role of a student loan ombudsman, with Erica Harmon serving as deputy ombudsman.
Events at the Hynes Convention Center and the Boston Convention and Exposition Center were wiped out after the state of emergency began in March 2020, cascading into scores of hotel room cancellations and widespread financial impacts.
Acute care hospitals in Massachusetts reported an 11 percent increase in a set of preventable incidents affecting patient health in 2020.
As of last week, there were 9.2 million unfilled U.S. job openings, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, while the number of unemployed stood at 9.5 million.
A house wren (Troglodytes aedon) perches on a broken tree along the Apache Springs Trail at Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico.
Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro speaks during the press conference at the Council on Chemical Abuse (COCA) RISE Center in Reading, PA Tuesday morning April 13, 2021 where Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro visited to announce the expansion of the Law Enforcement Treatment Initiative (LETI) in Berks County. The LETI program is a collaborative law enforcement program that allows Pennsylvanians seeking treatment for addiction to use their local law enforcement, including sheriffs, probation officers, and parole officers as a resource to contact participating treatment partners without the threat of arrest.
Jamaica plans to ask Britain for reparations over the Atlantic slave trade in the former British colony.



According to Reuters, a senior government official said via a petition the amount could be in the billions of pounds.

Spain and Britain were two of the countries at the epicenter of the slave trade, tearing Africans from their home continent to work on plantations of sugar cane, bananas and other crops that created fortunes for their owners.

"We are hoping for reparatory justice in all forms that one would expect if they are to really ensure that we get justice from injustices to repair the damages that our ancestors experienced," Olivia Grange, Minister of Sports, Youth and Culture, told Reuters. "Our African ancestors were forcibly removed from their home and suffered unparalleled atrocities in Africa to carry out forced labour to the benefit of the British Empire. Redress is well overdue."

According to the National Library of Jamaica, an estimated 600,000 Africans were shipped to the Carribean country since it was seized from Spain in 1655. Jamaica became independent in 1962 but is still part of the British Commonwealth.

RELATED: California To Study How Slavery Reparations Could Become Reality

To compensate slave owners, the British government took out a 20 million pound loan -- a huge amount at the time -- after it prohibited the trading of slaves in 1807. The ensuing interest on the loan wasnt paid off until 2015, Reuters reports.

The estimated worth of reparations could be some 7.6 billion pounds, a number estimated on a private motion by Jamaican lawmaker Mike Henry and based on the equivalent in todays terms to what Britain paid slaveholders.

"I am asking for the same amount of money to be paid to the slaves that was paid to the slave owners," said Henry. "I am doing this because I have fought against this all my life, against chattel slavery which has dehumanized human life."

The petition has been approved by Jamaica's National Council on Reparations and will be filed pending advice from the attorney general and three legal teams, said Grange. The attorney general will subsequently send it to Britain's Queen Elizabeth.
A mural honoring George Floyd in Toledo, Ohio, has collapsed after being struck by lightning. Photos circulating on social media show the mural, which was painted by artist David Ross following Floyds murder last summer, flattenz.

According to Newsweek, witnesses reported to the Toledo Police that the building on which the mural was painted was hit by lightning at approximately 4:30 p.m. local time on Tuesday (July 13). A separate witness told the Toledo Fire and Rescue Department that they had seen lightning hit the building, which is located on the corner of Summit Street and Lagrange Streetnear downtown Toledo, before the collapse.

Local station WTVG reported that its Doppler radar detected a lightning strike in the area around 4:30 p.m. local time.

RELATED: Derek Chauvin Sentencing: Former Officer Sentenced to 22.5 Years Murder of George Floyd
Dallas-based civil rights attorney Lee Merritt has officially launched his campaign for Attorney General of the state. He will run against current Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.

The lawyer, who has represented the families of Botham Jean, Atatiana Jefferson, and others, said in a July 13 statement, "Texas Republicans have launched an all-out assault on voter rights and civil liberties. This campaign is a response from the people of Texas. We are fighting for an executive branch in Texas that serves the needs of all its citizens and not just the elite. It's our turn."



In the campaign ad, Merritt calls out Paxton for voter suppression, siding with former President Donald Trump to overturn election results and downplaying the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

Watch below:
A grandmother who was diagnosed with both COVID-19 and pancreatitis reportedly beat both diseases after being given just a 10 percent chance of survival by doctors.

According to WABC-TV, 61-year-old Alisa White of Long Island, New York, returned to Huntington Hospital on Tuesday (July 13), six months after a procedure that saved her life.

White was initially admitted in January with severe pancreatitis after she survived a prolonged hospital stay with coronavirus. Her complications from COVID were a direct cause of her pancreatitis, WABC-TV reports.

Doctors placed White in a medically induced coma and had a cyst-gastrotomy procedure where an endoscope was used to clean out an infection. The grandmother of 11 endured seven surgeries during her hospital stay.

During a press conference captured by CBS New York, Dr. Demetrios Tzimas said White was given an estimate of a 10 percent chance of survival.

"She's really a walking miracle," he said during the presser. "Unfortunately she had such bad pancreatitis, most of her pancreas died, and she had a dead organ in her abdomen," Tzimas added, explaining that they removed as much damaged tissue as possible for a human to survive.

Appearing at the press conference White told Dr. Tzimas, "I want to thank you, thank you very much for saving my life."

"How many times could I have died? So many times I could have died," she added.

WABC-TV reports that doctors provided White with a gift card to one of her favorite restaurants, Texas Roadhouse so that she could take her children and grandchildren.
"Oliver represente une nouvelle generation de personnes qui vont nous aider a construire une route vers l'espace", a declare Bob Smith, patron de Blue Origin.

Diplome du lycee en 2020, titulaire d'une licence de pilote prive, et age de 18 ans, Oliver Daemen est le premier passager payant du vaisseau de l'entreprise aerospatiale Blue Origin. Il deviendra le 20 juillet le plus jeune astronaute de l'histoire lorsqu'il s'envolera aux cotes du milliardaire Jeff Bezos a annonce l'entreprise jeudi.

Cette annonce "marque le debut des operations commerciales pour New Shepard", le vaisseau de Blue Origin, a declare Bob Smith, le patron de l'entreprise. "Oliver represente une nouvelle generation de personnes qui vont nous aider a construire une route vers l'espace", a-t-il ajoute.

L'astronaute la plus agee aussi a bord du vol

Oliver Daemen n'est pas le vainqueur des encheres pour un siege a bord, remportees pour 28 millions de dollars. Ce passager a demande a rester anonyme, et s'envolera lors d'une mission future, a affirme l'entreprise.

Voler a bord de New Shepard permettra d'accomplir le reve de la vie du jeune homme, fascine par l'espace, la Lune et les fusees depuis ses 4 ans, detaille un communique. Il prevoit d'etudier la physique et la gestion de l'innovation a l'universite d'Utrecht aux Pays-Bas a partir de septembre.

L'entreprise n'a pas precise la nationalite d'Oliver Daemen, mais son compte Instagram public comporte des commentaires principalement ecrits en neerlandais.

Le futur etudiant rejoindra le fondateur de Blue Origin Jeff Bezos, son frere Mark, ainsi que Wally Funk, la future astronaute la plus agee de l'histoire a 82 ans, parmi les passagers du premier vol habite du vaisseau New Shepard.

Juste apres Virign Galactic

Bezos, fondateur d'Amazon et homme le plus riche du monde, espere rejoindre Richard Branson dans le club des milliardaires ayant atteint l'espace dans un vaisseau construit par leur propre compagnie. Richard Branson l'a accompli a bord d'un vaisseau de Virgin Galactic dimanche, un jalon important pour l'industrie du tourisme spatial, encore balbutiante.

Meme si Jeff Bezos arrivera deuxieme, Blue Origin vante que son experience de voyage est superieure a celle de Virgin Galactic, car a l'inverse de sa concurrente, Blue Shepard depasse la frontiere internationale reconnue de l'espace, a une altitude de 100 kilometres. Blue Origin affirme egalement que sa fusee est plus respectueuse de l'environnement.

Les ambitions de l'entreprise ne s'arretent pas au tourisme spatial puisqu'elle espere desormais devenir un sous-traitant majeur pour les missions de la NASA.

Sur le meme sujet Apres son voyage reussi dans l'espace, Richard Branson ouvre la voie au tourisme spatial

Actuellement c'est l'entreprise SpaceX d'Elon Musk qui represente le principal partenaire du secteur prive pour l'agence spatiale americaine, notamment en emmenant plusieurs astronautes vers la Station spatiale internationale depuis 2020. SpaceX developpe egalement une fusee d'exploration spatiale lointaine pour de futures missions habitees vers Mars.
Business

AP

Biden meets Dems at Capitol to firm up support for spending

Andrew Harnik/AP President Joe Biden (right) joins Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and fellow Democrats at the Capitol in Washington on Wednesday to discuss the latest progress on his infrastructure agenda. Andrew Harnik  staff, AP President Joe Biden speaks with members of the media after leaving a meeting with fellow Democrats at the Capitol in Washington, Wednesday, July 14, 2021, to discuss the latest progress on his infrastructure agenda. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik) J. Scott Applewhite - staff, AP Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., a key negotiator in the infrastructure talks, is surrounded by reporters as walks through the Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, July 13, 2021. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) Susan Walsh - staff, AP Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., finishes talking to reporters outside the West Wing of the White House in Washington, Monday, July 12, 2021, following his meeting with President Joe Biden. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh) J. Scott Applewhite - staff, AP Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., walks to his office as reporters ask about the infrastructure deal reached among Senate Democrats last night, at the Capitol in Washington, Wednesday, July 14, 2021. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) J. Scott Applewhite - staff, AP Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., speaks to reporters before meeting with Democratic members of the Texas Legislature who are trying to kill a Republican bill in Austin that would make it harder to vote in the Lone Star State, at the Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, July 13, 2021. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) J. Scott Applewhite - staff, AP Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., a negotiator in the infrastructure talks, speaks to reporters as senators arrive for votes at the Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, July 13, 2021. Yesterday, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., chair of the Senate Budget Committee, met at the White House with President Joe Biden to address roadblocks on on an infrastructure agreement.

WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden stepped up his bid to push his multi- trillion-dollar domestic plan through Congress on Wednesday, lunching with Senate Democrats a day after party leaders announced a compromise for pouring federal resources into climate change, health care and family service programs.

It is great to be home, Biden told reporters as he left the building where he spent 36 years as a Delaware senator. It is great to be with my colleagues, and I think we are going to get a lot done.

The closed-door session was Bidens first working meeting with lawmakers at the Capitol since becoming president. Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut said the president urged them to consider whether their plan would help people in his hometown of Scranton, Pa.

His point was that we need to be thinking about folks who have given up on democracy, Murphy said.

Biden received three standing ovations from his fellow Democrats, according to Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania.

The meeting was the start of Bidens efforts to firm up support for forthcoming legislation embodying his priorities among Democrats, whose skinny congressional majorities leave him with virtually no votes to lose.

Late Tuesday, top Democrats announced an agreement among themselves on plans to spend $3.5 trillion over the coming decade on a wide range of domestic programs, an expansion Biden has proposed financing with tax increases on the wealthiest Americans. Included in the proposal would be a top priority for progressives  an expansion of Medicare, the health insurance program for older Americans, to include vision, dental and hearing coverage.

A senior Democratic aide said the party will also propose extensions of tax credits for children, child care and some low-income people; money for environmentally friendly energy technologies; and a federal standard aimed at encouraging a shift to clean energy. The plan would also fund pre-kindergarten for toddlers and paid family leave and a pathway to citizenship for many immigrants, said the aide, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Yet those ideas are merely proposals right now, and Democrats will have to decide which programs are affected and by how much in future legislation. That will likely take months.

The initial plans fall short of even bolder progressive goals, like extending overall Medicare coverage to people as young as 60. Biden and party leaders face a tricky task of winning over moderates wary about tax increases and further ballooning budget deficits, and progressives demanding even more spending.

We know the road ahead is gong to be long. There are bumps along the way, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York said Wednesday. But he said Democrats would press ahead because we must make average American lives a whole lot better.

Underscoring the political complexities, West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin stopped short of saying that he would back all the policy initiatives that Biden and top Democrats are pursuing.

I really havent seen everything yet, said Manchin, one of the chambers more conservative Democrats.

Republicans could well oppose the effort unanimously, criticizing its costs and likely tax increases. Democrats will need support from all their lawmakers in the 50-50 Senate and could lose no more than three in the House.

Separately, a bipartisan group of senators is working to flesh out a related measure that would cost around $1 trillion  including $579 billion in new spending  on roads, water systems and other more traditional infrastructure projects, another Biden priority. Biden and that group had agreed to an outline of that measure last month, and bargainers are hoping to craft a compromise bill in coming days.

Together, the infrastructure and social program packages fall a bit short of the roughly $4.5 trillion Biden had proposed to help communities and families in every corner of the country. That means some increases Biden has proposed will have to be curtailed or cut.

The Democrats goal is to push a budget resolution reflecting Tuesdays agreement through the House and the Senate before lawmakers leave for their August recess. Budget passage would let Democrats move a follow-up spending bill that actually finances the partys priorities with just 50 votes and Vice President Kamala Harris tie-breaking vote in the Senate, not the 60 votes Republicans could otherwise require with a bill-killing filibuster.

The actual spending legislation would likely not start moving through Congress until the fall.

In discussing the budget agreement, Schumer and other lawmakers did not respond when asked if they had the support of all 50 Democratic senators.

Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., the budget committee chairman, and other progressives pushed initially for a $6 trillion budget top line, while party moderates insisted on a far lower price tag. Biden had proposed around $4.5 trillion.

The Democrats announcement Tuesday left many questions about their budget accord. These included how much it would raise through tax increases and other revenue to pay for its costs, how much would be spent on specific programs and how Bidens proposals would be curtailed or eliminated to fit into the legislation.

Schumer said the proposal would call for financing Bidens budget priorities in a robust way. He also said it would include the dental and hearing expansion of Medicare, a priority of Sanders.

Sanders said the agreement would end an era in which rich people and big companies arent bearing enough of the burden of financing government programs.

Those days are gone, he said. The wealthy and large corporations are going to start paying their fair share of taxes, so that we can protect the working families of this country.

Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., a leading moderate who helped shape the budget package, claimed the measure would be fully paid for with offsetting revenue, but he provided no details. Besides higher taxes on the wealthy and corporations, Biden proposes beefing up the IRS budget so it can collect more revenue from scofflaws.
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FILE - In this Oct. 14, 2020, file photo, housing activists erect a sign in Swampscott, Mass. A federal freeze on most evictions is set to expire soon. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes.
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BOISE - On Wednesday, July 14, Idaho Governor Brad Little hosted a roundtable with law enforcement leaders at Idaho State Police (ISP) headquarters in Boise to discuss Idahos growing drug threat and the connection to the United States-Mexico border.

The sustained availability of drugs and the impact from crime related to drug abuse  including property and violent crimes  present continuing threats to the health and safety of Idahoans, Governor Little said. Meth and fentanyl are the most serious and growing drug threats in Idaho and there is a direct tie to the loose border with Mexico.

Little referenced that in the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA), law enforcement reporting shows the supply of illicit fentanyl from Mexico in the region has become more prevalent. More than half of officers surveyed this year reported that investigations involving fentanyl were directly tied to sources in Mexico.

Little also said law enforcement reporting shows meth is primarily transported into Oregon and Idaho from Mexico through California. Of the Drug Trafficking Organizations investigated last year, 23 of 24 identified Mexico as the source country for drugs trafficked into the region.

Earlier this month, Governor Little sent a team of five ISP troopers to the border to assist the State of Arizona with their drug interdiction efforts. The troopers are five of ISPs expert criminal interdiction team. They are in Arizona to serve both as a force multiplier for local efforts at a time when its needed along the border and, importantly, to bring back to Idaho the experience of seeing and learning up-to-the-minute enforcement techniques.

The troopers deployed are trainers themselves and help teach hundreds of other state and local law enforcement right here in Idaho on illegal drug trends and updated enforcement techniques.

It is truly a fantastic opportunity to send our best criminal interdiction troopers to learn whats happening and whats working with law enforcement efforts to fight the flow of illegal drugs, and to be a force multiplier along the border when it is badly needed, Governor Little said. I want to thank these law enforcement leaders here with me today for sharing with us what they are facing.

Law enforcement leaders who participated in todays roundtable include ISP Colonel Kedrick Wills, Twin Falls Chief of Police Craig Kingsbury, Bannock County Sheriff Tony Manu, ISP Lt. Colonel Sheldon Kelley, ISP Lt. Colonel Bill Gardiner, ISP District 1 (Coeur dAlene) Captain John Kempf, and Fusion Center ISP Sgt. Bret Kessinger.

Additional information about drug activity in Idaho is available in the Oregon-Idaho HIDTA 2022 Threat Assessment available at https://oridhidta.org/reports.
BOISE - At their meeting on Wednesday, July 14 in Pocatello, Idaho Fish and Commissioners approved fall Chinook and coho salmon fishing seasons. The preseason forecast for fall Chinook salmon of 24,710 adults is similar to last years return of 27,322, and the coho forecast of 14,000 is nearly double last years return of 7,797.

Fall Chinook

Fishing for fall Chinook salmon will open in the following areas on August 18 seven-days per week.

Clearwater River from the mouth upstream to the South Fork of the Clearwater.

Middle Fork Clearwater River from the mouth upstream to Clear Creek.

South Fork Clearwater River from the mouth upstream to the confluence of Red and American rivers.

Snake River from the Idaho/Washington Border upstream to Hells Canyon Dam.

Salmon River from the mouth upstream to the Little Salmon River.

Fishing for fall Chinook Salmon in the following area will open September 1.

North Fork Clearwater River from the mouth upstream to Dworshak Dam.

Closing dates: The Clearwater River from Memorial Bridge to Orofino Bridge will close at midnight October 14, or may close earlier by order from the Director of Fish and Game.

All other areas open to fall Chinook salmon fishing will close at midnight October 31, or may close earlier by emergency order of the Director of Fish and Game.

Bag limits: Three adult Chinook, no limit on jacks (less than 24 inches). Possession limit is nine (9) adult Chinook. There is no season limit on fall Chinook.

Full seasons and rules brochure will be available on the Chinook fishing webpage by July 27.

Coho salmon

Fishing for coho salmon in the following areas will open September 1 for seven days per week in the following locations:

Clearwater River from the mouth upstream to the confluence of the South Fork and Middle Fork Clearwater rivers.

North Fork Clearwater River from the mouth upstream to Dworshak Dam.

Middle Fork Clearwater River from the mouth upstream to Clear Creek.

South Fork Clearwater River from the mouth upstream to the confluence of Red and American rivers.

Closing date: December 1 or by order from the Director of Fish and Game

Bag limits: Daily bag limit is two adult coho salmon, no limit on jacks (less than 20 inches). Possession limit is six (6) adult coho salmon. There is no season limit on coho salmon.

Full seasons and rules brochure will be available on the coho fishing webpage by July 27.
BURLEY, Idaho  Police have arrested a man they say is suspected of chasing a boy riding a bicycle with his pickup then running over the bike.

Cassia County Sheriffs Lt. Kevin Horak said Michael Guizar, 26, of Burley, will be facing finalized charges by the Cassia County Prosecutors Office.

At the least he will be charged with injury to a child, reckless driving and aggravated assault, Horak said.

The prosecutors office may file stiffer charges after reviewing the case, he said.

Horak said the sheriffs office seized Guizars pickup as evidence.

The incident occurred at about 9 p.m. Friday at the Burley skate park.

Private surveillance video was widely distributed on Facebook showing a man in a gray pickup chasing the boy. In one video he drove over the grass at the public park and in another video he drove up on the grass and sidewalk where the boy had jumped off the bike and ran. It appeared in the video that the pickup then struck the bicycle.
BIG RAPIDS  Michigan Works! West Central has received nearly $550,000 to help those hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic to complete short- and mid-term training programs in high-skill, high-wage career paths.

Through the Michigan Learning and Education Advancement Program (MiLEAP), individuals affected by the pandemic will have the opportunity to earn training credentials to advance their careers.

MiLEAP funds will assist job seekers in transitioning from education and training programs to high-skill, high-wage careers, resulting in industry-recognized credential attainment and reduced educational debt.

Michigan Works! West Central is partnering with a regional consortium to provide this funding to those who qualify. Consortium members include Ferris State University, Mecosta-Osceola Intermediate School District/Meceola Tech and West Shore Community College, as well as a wide variety of regional employers and training providers.

Individuals who were employed at the onset of the pandemic but did not have the right training credentials, were potentially the first to be laid off by employers. With the help of this program, we can help those clients attain high-level skills that lead to better employment, said Shelly Keene, executive director of Michigan Works! West Central. The goal of MiLEAP is to engage those hit hardest by the pandemic and develop meaningful opportunities to reconnect them to the workforce.

MiLEAP focuses on individuals who are dislocated, underemployed, essential workers, living in distressed communities and those who are economically disadvantaged. Michigan Works! West Centrals MiLEAP Navigator will provide eligible clients with assistance in assessing and overcoming barriers, identifying resources, and providing guidance and support.

MiLEAP participants also will receive individualized competency-based assessments and learning plans to successfully navigate the programs and complete training.

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) recently awarded more than $15.6 million for MiLEAP to 10 groups across the state that will work as regional consortiums to administer the training funds. Funds in the program will be available through June 2023.

"Along with Futures for Frontliners and Michigan Reconnect, MiLEAP is an innovative approach to providing education and training opportunities to support Michiganders," LEO Acting Director Susan Corbin said in a statement. "By offering training that is customized to the individual, MiLEAP will enable participants to take the next step on their pathway to financial security."

MiLEAP aligns with Michigans Sixty by 30 goal to increase the number of working-age adults with a skill certificate or college degree to 60% by 2030. LEO estimates that MiLEAP will help more than 5,000 job seekers across the state advance their careers.

Residents in Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Newaygo, Oceana and Osceola counties looking for more information about MiLEAP, eligibility requirement and how to apply, can contact Michigan Works! West Centrals MiLEAP Navigator at 231-791-7061. Information about MiLEAP also can be found at MWWC.org/MiLEAP.
BANGKOK (AP)  Health authorities in Thailand said Wednesday they will seek to impose limits on exports of locally produced AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine because the country doesn't have enough for its own needs.

The proposal comes as new cases and deaths are rapidly increasing along with the spread of the more contagious delta variant of the virus, straining hospital facilities and threatening to set back a recovery of the country's battered economy.

Limiting exports will pose a problem for Southeast Asian countries that have signed contracts to buy Thai-produced vaccines, though some may be able to obtain supplies elsewhere.

Dr. Nakorn Premsri, director of the National Vaccine Institute, said its vaccine committee agreed in principle to issue an order temporarily limiting exports, but did not give any details. The order would be issued by designating it a matter of national security.

A company owned by Thailand's king, Siam BioScience, was supposed to supply the country with 10 million doses of AstraZeneva vaccine a month, but acknowledged earlier this month that it can provide only 5 million to 6 million doses.

Siam BioScience was awarded a license by AstraZeneca to be a regional production hub supplying eight other countries despite having no experience in manufacturing vaccines.

Several countries have reported being told by Siam BioScience that they would not receive the contracted vaccines on time, lending weight to speculation that the Thai factory was having production problems. Nakorn said Wednesday that AstraZeneca is supposed to deliver at least one-third of its monthly production at the Thai facility to Thailand's government.

Thailand launched a mass vaccination campaign only in early June, and critics accuse the government of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha of failing to secure adequate and timely supplies of vaccines. Its plan at the beginning of the year would have allowed only about half the 69 million population to be vaccinated this year, and most of them in the second half of the year.

Thailand has so far administered 13.23 million vaccine doses. Around 9.88 million people, or about 14.3% of its 69 million population, have received at least one dose.

The government is now targeting 100 million doses by the end of the year, enough to vaccinate 50 million people, just over 70% of the population.

Thailand has been negotiating with other producers to make up for the vaccine shortfall. So far, it has only used vaccines from AstraZeneca and Chinas Sinovac and Sinopharm, although the government says it has agreements to also buy from Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson.

Health officials announced Monday that medical workers who received two doses of the Sinovac vaccine will be given booster shots of the AstraZeneca vaccine. They made the decision after a nurse who received two doses of Sinovac in May died Saturday after contracting COVID-19.

The head of the Thai Red Cross Emerging Infectious Diseases Health Science Center, Dr. Thiravat Hemachudha, said last week that a study he helped conduct found that Sinovac was less effective at fighting the delta variant, and that a booster dose of AstraZeneca would increase its efficacy.

Other Thais who have received only one dose of Sinovac will be able to get AstraZeneca for their second dose, Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said.

A nighttime curfew and other new coronavirus restrictions came into effect Monday in Bangkok and nearby provinces and in the countrys four southernmost provinces, which have been the most severely affected by the current virus surge.

The sharp rise in cases has caused a severe shortage of hospital beds for COVID-19 patients, prompting the authorities to allow patients to isolate at home and in community centers, and giving them access to antigen test kits that were previously limited to the medical community.

India also imposed limits on vaccine exports when it was hit by a devastating coronavirus outbreak earlier this year.
ACE Partners with Safe Space to launch first of its kind Whitepaper Report on the mental health of startup founders in Singapore

Action Community for Entrepreneurship (ACE), the national advocate for Singapores startup ecosystem, partnered with digital mental healthcare provider Safe Space to virtually launch their whitepaper report on the Mental Health of Startup Founders in Singapore.

Analyzing findings from over 70 pieces of expert insights and answers from clinical therapists, and over 150 founders from entrepreneur networks - The whitepaper report focuses on the perception of mental health among startup founders and improvements that can be made in the industry going forward.

As part of the virtual launch, ACE and Safe Space hosted a panel discussion focusing on Rethinking Mental Wellness in Workplaces.

Distinguished panelists include Mr Edward Chia, Member of Parliament for HollandBukit Timah GRC, Ms Antoinette Patterson, Co-Founder & CEO of Safe Space, Ms Ngo Lee Yian, Executive Director of Singapore Association for Mental Health, and Mr Jeff Yeo, Co-Founder of Big Tiny.

Mental Health in Startups: The Challenges and Coping Mechanisms

ACE and Safe Space launched this project to deepen understanding of the difficulties Singapore-based startup founders are facing, and what can be done to alleviate this often unspoken strain. The report found a number of interesting research findings and trends - some of which are alarming.

Whilst 78% of startup founders agree that mental health is important in a high-functioning team, only 12% admitted to having a mental health advocate in their startups. Another disconcerting finding was that although male founders were twice as likely to agree that running a startup had taken a toll on their mental health, they were twice as likely to confide in no one.

Our Safe Space mission is to ensure everyone has fast, affordable and discreet mental healthcare. As a startup ourselves, we understand the challenges faced by our fellow startup founders to upkeep their mental health whilst building a business. With the insights from the whitepaper, we have structured a startup package to ensure companies of all sizes have access to affordable mental healthcare Says Ms Antoinette Patterson, Founder/ CEO of Safe Space

The report found that the four common themes of difficulty faced by startup founders are Uncertainty, Managing Relationships, Working Alone, and Slow Progress, with top stressors being Challenging Business Environment (62%), Company Cash Flow Issues (35%), and Long Working Hours (34%).

To address these stressors, the top coping strategies employed by startup founders are Exercise (54%), Mindfulness (40%), Peer Support (36%), and Family Support (32%). In spite of these strategies, the report found that many founders lack practical strategies for managing stress, and are perhaps unaware that therapy is accessible online, where therapists are increasingly offering more flexible hours for sessions.

ACE and Safe Space are calling on all members within the startup ecosystem and their investors to show commitment and place greater importance on mental health. Members can take the first step forward by signing up for the Startup Mental Wellness Pledge - a statement that affirms that your startup is committed to implementing a practical and effective mental wellness policy.
The partnership will help to increase access to COVID-19 testing

International Finance Corporation (IFC) is partnering with Bengaluru-based genetic diagnostics and research company, MedGenome, to increase access to COVID-19 testing, and support research to better help understand the virus, its variants and manage future outbreaks.

IFC's $16.5 million (~Rs 123 crore) equity investment will support the expansion of MedGenomes diagnostic services, including COVID-19 testing, as well as boost genomic data from South Asian populations, which can help provide valuable insights into complex diseases and help develop effective medical solutions for diverse populations.

MedGenome is also working on genetic sequencing with research laboratories affiliated with the government of India to help monitor the evolution of the Coronavirus, identify new variants, and help develop effective treatments to contain the disease. In April 2021, the companys research effort led to a publication that identified gene variants that can influence peoples susceptibility to COVID-19.

The investment in MedGenome is part of IFCs $4 billion (~Rs29, 820 crore) Global Health Platform, which is providing financing to support the manufacturing and supply of vaccines, medical equipment, and therapeutics, as well as the logistics required to deliver vaccines and medications.
Opens cGMP Plasmid DNA Manufacturing Facility in Carlsbad

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. has opened a new cGMP plasmid DNA manufacturing facility in Carlsbad, California, US enabling it to meet rapidly growing demand for plasmid DNA-based therapies and vital mRNA-based vaccines.

The 67,000-square-foot facility, located on Thermo Fisher's Carlsbad campus, is part of an investment strategy to ensure customers can reliably meet growing global demand for cell and gene therapies and vaccines.

Plasmid DNA is increasingly used as a therapeutic agent in gene therapies and certain vaccines. Its advantages, including weak immunogenicity, increased safety and ease of manufacture, have dramatically increased demand for materials and manufacturing capacity globally.

The expansion in Carlsbad also benefits the growing life sciences ecosystem in California, and Thermo Fisher will add more than 150 new roles as manufacturing scales.

"Demand for commercial plasmid DNA is outpacing supply as the development of transformative gene therapies and vaccines accelerates globally," said Marc N. Casper, chairman, president and chief executive officer, Thermo Fisher Scientific. "Investments in state-of-the-art manufacturing such as this ensure that our customers have reliable access to the high-quality materials and capabilities that have become vital for the production of these new lifesaving medicines and the patients in need."
TB Alliances ZeNix trial in South Africa and Eastern Europe sought to optimize the 6-month treatment regimen with reduced exposure to the drug linezolid

The results of ZeNix, a Phase 3 clinical trial that took place in 11 sites across Georgia, Moldova, Russia, and South Africa, has revealed that the BPaL treatment remains effective against highly drug-resistant strains of tuberculosis (TB) with either reduced dosage or duration of the linezolid component of the regimen.

Simultaneously, with the maintenance of efficacy, there was a decrease in linezolid associated side effects. The results from the trial, which was led by TB Alliance, a non-profit TB drug developer, were announced ahead of an oral abstract presentation next week at the 11th IAS Conference on HIV Science, on July 15th.

The BPaL regimenwhich combines the antibiotics bedaquiline (B), pretomanid (Pa) and linezolid (L)received its first regulatory approval in August 2019 for use against highly drug-resistant strains of TB. Historically, treatment would take 18 months or longer, with reported global success rates averaging 43%.

This Phase 3 clinical trial shows how TB Alliances new six-month, three-drug treatment for highly drug- resistant TB can be administered with reducing the dosing of the drug linezolid. This regimen reduces the treatment time for highly drug-resistant forms of TB from 18 months or longer to a six month duration.

India has the leading number of TB cases globally, accounting for more than 1 in 4 of all cases of active TB disease, including approximately 120,000 cases of drug-resistant forms of TB.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set an ambitious goal of TB eradication in India by 2025, ahead of the 2030 target of the Sustainable Development Goals. This bold commitment may face headwinds in the context of the unforeseen challenges posed by COVID-19, as well as the low success rates of current DR-TB treatments, which limit the potential of expanding TB services.

Mel Spigelman, M.D., President and CEO of TB Alliance, said, We now have evidence that the BPaL regimen can be optimized to make it even easier to use. Until recently, patients with highly drug-resistant TB had to suffer through a combination of as many as eight antibiotics, some involving daily injections, for 18 months or longer.
A record number of votes were received to decide the industry-nominated winners of the Most Awards. The Awards are an annual celebration of service excellence by South Africa's media owners and media agencies.

The Most Awards 2021

This year, 492 people directly involved in the media buying and selling space submitted completed votes. This delivered one of the best response rates in the history of the Most Awards.Brad Aigner, managing director of FGI Research, which conducted the industry-wide Most survey, said, The response from our industry to this years Most Awards Survey has been fantastic. Given the very difficult challenges that everyone has faced, it is amazing and heart-warming that so many people were prepared to make their contribution by participating in the survey.The Marketing Services Award also enjoyed a record number of nominations in 2021. This suggests that this function is very much an important part of the media owner and media agency relationship dynamic. Given our circumstances over the past 18 months, the service and support of the marketing services team are possibly more critical now than it ever has been, Aigner said.This year, the Most Awards will see the merging of the Newspaper and Magazine categories into a single Print category. Similarly, TV and Cinema have combined for a single Broadcast category.A special Virtually Perfect Service Award  in recognition of the changing media sales environment as a result of the Covid-19 lockdown  will also be made. The award looks to recognise a sales team that took a firm grip on business unusual by making clients feel like it was business as usual through the innovative and effective use of virtual practices.An adjudication panel of 13 esteemed industry professionals judged the nominations for the individual Bell and Shepherd awards.The Bell Award honours an individual who, though not working for a media owner or agency, has made an exceptional contribution to the betterment of the media sector. The Shepherd Award is awarded to someone who not only has a significant presence in the media industry but also selflessly gives back to it.Aigner comments that the nominees for the Bell and Shepherd awards were outstanding and that the calibre of nominees would see any of them make worthy recipients.Similarly, Aigner said, The quality of nominations for the Legend and Rising Star awards has been phenomenal. It was very encouraging to see so many new names of up-and-coming young people in our industry being put forward.Winners across 21 categories of the Most Awards - which includes awards for individuals, media owners, marketing services, and media agencies - will be announced in a hybrid, live-streamed awards event on 8 September 2021 at 4pm.
South Africa's liquor industry, including the South African Liquor Brandowners Association (Salba), the National Liquor Traders (NLT) and the Beer Association of South Africa (Basa) is urging government to declare a State of Emergency as more than 200 liquor shops have been looted in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng during the ongoing protests.

A general view of a burning warehouse in Durban, after protests erupted. 14 July 2021. Reuters/Rogan Ward

Unrest leads retailers and malls to temporarily shut up shop Multiple retailers and shopping centres in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal have limited their operations or closed their doors as civil unrest and looting continues...

Lack of govt security support

We need job creation, not job destruction - Proudly SA CEO The current spate of looting will be a major setback for hundreds of thousands of our people and their families that depend on the income that they will now lose, says the Proudly SA CEO...

Beleaguered alcohol industry crippled further by looting SA's alcohol industry, already on its knees due to the fourth booze ban, is now faced with the additional challenge of having liquor stores looted during the ongoing riots...

After the ransacking of hundreds of retail stores, the warehouses of liquor companies and distributors had become a target of looting and vandalism.Basa confirms that Heinekens Pinetown warehouse was looted on Sunday, with all office equipment, IT equipment, batteries and tyres from trucks stolen. Crates, empty bottles and stock were also taken. Heinekens preliminary estimation of losses suffered is in the millions of rands.Furthermore, two SAB depots in KwaZulu-Natal were also looted and set alight on Tuesday, and there is a fear that the other three remaining SAB facilities in the province will also be targeted, says Basa. Courier companies carrying alcohol and raw material such as malt for export have also been attacked.Our big concern is that the focus is now shifting to our primary production sites (breweries and distilleries) where high volume pre-production alcohol is stored. Any attack on these sites poses a serious safety risk for our security personnel on site, as well as looters and surrounding communities," says Salba CEO Kurt Moore.The last few days have seen the country in turmoil with thousands of businesses and jobs being destroyed by crowds of looters and multiple incidents of arson and vandalism.The mass looting, threat to lives and livelihoods and destruction of property has reached proportions that require the rapid and effective deployment of SANDF troops to assist business owners. Many of these are small and medium enterprises and are unable to protect their employees, businesses and livelihoods alone, says Moore.Moore adds that the lack of police presence and SANDF support and visibility has resulted in more than 200 of Salba's members stores being deliberately targeted and looted. Millions of rands worth of stock at warehouses and retail premises across Kwa-Zulu Natal and Gauteng has been stolen and stores damaged.Basa says the destruction of scores of liquor outlets, depots, warehouses, distribution centres and specialised manufacturing facilities is threatening the total collapse of the alcohol industry, which is already on its knees due to the four alcohol bans that have been enforced over the past 16 months."While private security companies have tried to protect these facilities they have been overwhelmed by the number of looters and have received very little support from the SANDF and South African Police Service (SAPS), due to their own lack of capacity on the ground. It is estimated that the attacks on the Heineken and SAB facilities have resulted in losses amounting to millions of rands," the Beer Association said.Convenor of the National Liquor Traders, Lucky Ntimane said the industry believed that many of these attacks were politically orchestrated as well as coordinated by organised crime which served to grow the illicit alcohol sector. If the destruction continues unabated, the liquor industry will reach a point of no return and more than 200,000 people will be out of work.The industry urged the president to "take the necessary steps to stabilise the country, mobilise the necessary resources to restore law and order in the affected areas and prevent further violence, loss of life and economic destruction".
Mike Brown, chief executive of Nedbank was quoted saying, "Remote conferences are certainly better than no conferences." The virtual Top Empowerment Conference has kicked off at a pivotal time in South Africa's history. As parts of our country have been affected by the unrest, renowned South African attorney and politician, Mathews Phosa, has pleaded with members of our country to vow to never let this happen again on our soil and on our watch. He has passionately called for us to band together to form a united front rather than being divided.

Re-addressing the problems of the past and the present requires a great deal of collaboration, which is precisely what unfolded on day 1 of this pivotal conference. According to Priya Naidoo, group executive at Nedbank, Covid-19 has placed great urgency on growing our economy. Mike Brown echoed that transformation will boost economic growth, labeling transformation strategies as both moral and business imperatives that contribute to a sustainable future for all.Simo Mkhize, chief commercial officer at Cell C, has reiterated that "in order for a country to thrive there is a social compact required between business, civil society, the community, and government at large." Mkize also highlighted the importance of empowering the youth of South Africa through digital skills development, outlining that in this digital age, connectivity is a necessity in every household.Juliet Mhango, chief human capital and transformation oOfficer at Cell C, reminded us that our youth unemployment stats are staggering over 40% and Nazrene Mannie, executive director for the Global Apprenticeship Network in Geneva, Switzerland, has indicated that perhaps the answer lies in a continued effort to raise the profile of technical and vocational colleges.In a panel discussion hosted by Nedbank on repurposing the economy for growth and making sure nobody is left behind, Tanya Van Lil, CEO of SAVCA, was quoted saying that, we need more capital flowing into these [venture capital] funds and more variety of funds so that we can see more entrepreneurs being supported. Priya Naidoo, group executive at Nedbank went on to say that partnerships will move us to great economic growth.In a positive panel discussion hosted by the KZN Convention Bureau, Ravi Pillay, MEC for Economic Development, Tourism & Environmental Affairs in KwaZulu-Natal has been quoted saying that, we triumphed over apartheid, we will get through this." The overarching sentiment of the discussion was that local tourism is how we will recover post-Covid-19.Zodwa Ntuli, commissioner of the B-BBEE Commission has called for creativity and for empowered entrepreneurs to continue to empower others. The resounding message from day 1 of the conference, as Xolile George CEO at SALGA, has put it, the deeper the crisis the better the opportunity.Clem Sunter closed day 1 of the conference with an excellent talk about post-pandemic scenarios for South Africa. Although Sunter stated that our country is in tough shape and also made reference to the increasing unemployment rate, his call is to promote new business and entrepreneurship. Both Simo Mkhize and Tanya Van Lil resounded that this is a necessity and in the words of Ralf Fletcher, in a Q&A session with Sunter, there needs to be an SME entrepreneurial revolution.All in all, the belief in our people and the potential of our country will carry us through these tough times.Join us on day 2 for more insightful conversations, by clicking here
R300,000 can help change 10 families' lives this Mandela Day

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Jacaranda FMs Good Morning Angels has set out to raise R300,000 for 10 children awaiting treatment at the Nelson Mandela Childrens Hospital. From 14-20 July, the station will be collecting donations, revealing the total amount raised to the hospital and South Africa on Wednesday morning, 21 July during Good Morning Angels on Breakfast with Martin Bester.Gautengs health care system is severley drained as our daily heroes battle the third wave. To make matters worse, Johannesburgs Charlotte Maxeke hospital was hard-hit by a devastating fire in April, putting additional pressure on surrounding hospitals  The Nelson Mandela Childrens Hospital is one of them.In 2019, we aimed to raise R400,000 to help 10 children receive a R40,000 heart operation at the Nelson Mandela Childrens Hospital Heart Centre. Good Morning Angels raised R1,8m, and the Round Table added an extra R900,000, totalling R2,7m raised. As if by fate, we helped 67 children received the critical intervention they needed, and they need us again, comments Deirdre King, managing director at Jacaranda FM.In true Madiba spirit, no child is turned away from the Nelson Mandela Childrens Hospital because of a lack of funds. The hospital relies on donors and a small state subsidy to take care of the children. On average, R30,000 takes care of the cost of care per child. This includes medical procedures and a care pack consisting of PJs, slippers, toiletries, and toys (books, puzzles, crayons and colouring books).Individuals and corporates can help in the following ways:There is no need too big, and no deed too small. Whether you push the donate button or share the message on your device, we have the power to change a families life and save a beloved child  what a powerful way to honour Mandela Day, please join us. Adds King.For more info visit jacarandafm.com or tune in to one of their platforms.
The IAB Bookmark Awards will be celebrating 13 years of this digital excellence, giving recognition to pioneering agencies, brands and publishers, and Selae Thobakgale will lead the announcement of South African digital marketing's industry benchmarks alongside the 2021 Bookmarks Round Table of industry executives come 29 July.

Selae Thobakgale, co-founder of Strategy Network and chief strategy officer at The Odd Number

Congratulations on being announced as host of the upcoming IAB Bookmark Awards. How do you feel about this?

How did you celebrate the news, and what does this mean to you, personally?

As the host, what can we expect?

You have some major experience in the digital marketing industry. Could you comment on the impact of Covid-19 on the industry?

Studies done globally have revealed that digital adoption has taken a quantum leap as we have been forced to move toward digital channels because of the restrictions placed by pandemic lockdowns.

For me, overall, the greatest learning has been in adapting to change as a constant variable. This has allowed me to understand even more profoundly, the powerful role of consumer led creativity in a digital a world.

As the world of advertising has shifted, digital has grown and evolved into a channel that delivers real business results through this evolution. What can organisations no longer ignore?

A key shift in response to consumer behaviour has been an increase in the digitisation of consumer interactions and offerings.

The IAB Bookmark Awards celebrate 13 years of moving the industry forward this year. How has this platform contributed to the evolution of digital marketing excellence?

The more we empower, acknowledge and celebrate digital excellence, the more we innovate. This is how the industry keeps moving forward.





Registration is open until 28 July 2021.



The awards will be an honour to work created under the categories: Platforms, Community, Channels, Publishing, Campaign, Craft, Emerging Channels and Special Honours.



The 13th Annual Bookmark Awards, powered by DStv Media Sales and brought to you by Accenture Interactive, 24.com, Everlytic, Google, Joe Public, Tractor Outdoor, Absa, iProspect, Bizcommunity and Mediamark. To book a seat at the Bookmark Awards, head to https://www.iabbookmarkawards.co.za/ Registration is open until 28 July 2021.The awards will be an honour to work created under the categories: Platforms, Community, Channels, Publishing, Campaign, Craft, Emerging Channels and Special Honours.The 13th Annual Bookmark Awards, powered by DStv Media Sales and brought to you by Accenture Interactive,, Everlytic, Google, Joe Public, Tractor Outdoor, Absa, iProspect,and Mediamark.

We find out from the media and advertising titan what we can expect at the 2021 IAB Bookmark Awards.It is such an honour to be selected as the host. The unique proposition is my love and involvement in the marketing industry integrating with my presenting career.Working in the industry, I understand all the hard work that goes into what we do. So, to be a part of recognising and celebrating the excellence in our industry is very important for me. I feel a great sense of responsibility to do it well.I consider myself as being more than just a host, but an industry peer as well. So I am looking forward to bringing my insights and interacting with fellow industry peers from a place of understanding. However, let me not shy away from the fact that I will still do my best as a presenter to make the awards as memorable as possible.Covid-19 has had an impact at both industry levels and organisational levels.You are on mute was not a part of our daily lives pre-Covid-19.However, from a marketing point of view, we have not been immune to the economic impact of Covid-19. An ailing economy, reduced consumer spending, organisations reporting losses all eventually lead to marketing budget cuts. We have had to innovate with less and find new ways of making our digital marketing efforts connect more with people beyond just the sales objective.In addition to that, an increase in digital activity also means an increase in digital clutter. The competitive pool has new powerful entrants in the form of content creators, influencers etc. To be seen and heard requires more innovative thinking and an understanding of how to use digital tools to get our marketing objective across.Consumers have moved dramatically toward online channels. While this has obviously had a positive impact on the industry, we have had to respond adequately. Brands that failed to do so, are getting left behind. I think more and more brands have come to understand that a digital strategy should be a part of the fabric of the organisational strategy as well.Some of these transitions will be the foundation of a new way of doing business that will stick in the long term.13 years ago, was 2008. Facebook hadnt launched the like button yet, and Instagram did not even exist. To be a platform that contributed to digital marketing for this long is something worth celebrating. Not only does IAB as a whole, empower the media and marketing industries to thrive in a digital economy, they also enable excellence. The Bookmarks are a result of that.
If you're driving anywhere around the greater Joburg area, you're sure to encounter the exciting outdoor campaign for the all-new Hot 102.7FM.

The campaign focuses on getting listeners to adopt the Hot brand on the 102.7FM frequency, and to attract new listeners to the brand. There are 300 street pole ads, many in areas where the Hot brand has previously not been available, says Lloyd Madurai, MD of Hot 102.7FM. Were also running a campaign on digital billboards in high-traffic areas and shopping malls, with a primary focus on areas that will attract new listeners to the station.The street pole campaign has five different creative themes, reflecting the fun, the vibe, and the sound of the station. The ads re-ignite memories evoked by the stations signature Old Skool and R&B sound, says Madurai. Our thinking in the creation of these ads was to capture the DNA of the station on the boards. Were a fun brand, we love the music we play, and we love radio. We hope that our campaign will bring a feel-good factor, and even a smile to those who see it and that they will be encouraged to lock their radio into Hot 102.7FM.The digital billboards have a strong call-to-action with material that reflects the current on-air show, as well as a creative montage of some of the artists that listeners can expect to hear on Hot 102.7FM. Were getting a great response to the station, adds Madurai. Our WhatsApp line is constantly abuzz as old fans of the Hot brand transition with us and new listeners share their delight at being able to enjoy our brand.
South Africa's liquor industry, including the South African Liquor Brandowners Association (Salba), the National Liquor Traders (NLT) and the Beer Association of South Africa (Basa) is urging government to declare a State of Emergency as more than 200 liquor shops have been looted in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng during the ongoing protests.
Taking a break from his role as MC this year, Pepe Marais, founding partner and group CCO of Joe Public United is going to be speaking at this year's Nedbank IMC on the topic of 'Basic Instinct. Have we forgotten our marketing instinct?'
French citizens rioted in response to plans by President Macron to mandate vaccine passports to enter venues like shopping malls, restaurants bars, hospitals, bars, cafes and access public transport.

As we highlighted yesterday, people will have to provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test to enter any of these sites from August onwards.

Given that they would have to cover the bill for every single PCR test, the restrictions would make the vaccine de facto mandatory for anyone who wants to live a normal life.

People in Paris responded on Bastille Day with an unruly protest that led to French police using tear gas to disperse the demonstrators.

NOW  People chanting "Liberte" in Paris as they protest against mandatory vaccinations of health care workers and vaccination passports on Bastille Day (#14Juillet), a national holiday in France.pic.twitter.com/YrP4l0tXwy  Disclose.tv  (@disclosetv) July 14, 2021

The police stepped in shortly after scores of protesters marched down a boulevard in central Paris on Wednesday without permission from the Paris authorities, reports Reuters. Some wore badges saying No to the health pass.

Police vans and riot police also blocked off roads in an attempt to prevent the procession of the protest.

Protests against mandatory vaccines in Paris pic.twitter.com/XowKvm6P3d  Luke Rudkowski (@Lukewearechange) July 14, 2021

There were also riots and protests after the French government previously tried to make taking the vaccination a condition of using public transport, leading to the proposed bill being shelved.

It remains to be seen whether the unrest will build and force Macron into another U-turn.

France was beset with many months of Yellow Vest protests that began in late 2018 and only ended in March 2020 due to the first COVID-19 lockdown.

The Gilets Jaunes is a populist movement that unifies concerns shared by both the left and right, meaning it could rise again as a rebellion against COVID passes if the French government persists in mandating such draconian measures.
In April, employees posted a complaint in the companys internal messaging board about Abigail Shriers Irreversible Damage: The Transgender Craze Seducing Our Daughters. According to NBC News, the complaint calling on the removal of the book attracted the support of more than 467 Amazon corporate staff.

Currently, the book, which explores what the author describes as the trans epidemic in young girls, is listed among the top three bestsellers in the LGBTQ+ Demographic Studies category.

According to Shrier, the book does not classify transgenderism as a mental illness, as she is often accused of doing. However, the employees pointed to a paragraph that they say suggests she does. The passage reads: Many of the adolescent girls suddenly identifying as transgender seemed to be caught in a craze  a cultural enthusiasm that spreads like a virus.

One of the employees who quit, Selene Xenia, who identifies as trans had worked as a software engineer at Amazon for about seven years. Xenia quit in June, after the book monopoly companys decision to not ban the book.

The book literally has [craze] in the title and considers being transgender a mental illness in many senses throughout the book, Xenia said.

Referencing a decision the company made earlier this year to stop selling a similar book called When Harry Became Sally: Responding to the Transgender Movement, Xenia said: I found it extremely hypocritical for Amazon to say that it would stock this book and not another similar one. It looks like Amazon had to remove that particular book for PR reasons, not because they felt morally obligated to.

In a statement, Amazon said it will continue to sell the book because it believes providing access to written speech and a variety of viewpoints is one of the most important things regardless of whether those viewpoints differ from its stated positions.

Shrier said in a statement: This issue wont go away just because some disgruntled Amazon employees wish it would. And banning the book wont help these girls or anyone else.

My book goes out of its way to honor the experiences of transgender adults, never disparages them, and never implies that the trans identity is a mental illness, she added.

Following reports that Amazon employees were having issues with the listing of her book in May, Shrier tweeted that anyone who thinks my book advances a narrative of transgender identity as a disease hasnt read it, or is a bona fide idiot.
Greece has become the latest European country to be hit with mass protests after the government announced the unvaccinated would be banned from visiting bars, restaurants, cinemas and other public places.

Thousands of demonstrators descended on Athens and Thessaloniki, with crowds chanting Hands off our kids! and holding signs that said We say no to vaccine poison.

All nursing home staff and hospital workers will be mandated to get the vaccine from August 16, while hospital workers also face losing their jobs unless they get the compulsory jab from September.

NEW  Plan to vaccinate teenagers in Greece sparks huge protests today in Athens and Thessaloniki. pic.twitter.com/I8WWfBBHPp  Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) July 14, 2021

Teens as young as 15 will also be encouraged to get the vaccine with parental permission, another change that has angered protesters.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis effectively said that the new measures, which go into effect on Friday and will remain in place until the end of August, were a punishment for Greeks enjoying themselves too much and refusing to take the vaccine.

After a year and a half, no one can claim ignorance about the coronavirus anymore, said Mitsotakis. The country will not shut down again due to attitudes adopted by certain people Its not Greece thats a danger, but unvaccinated Greeks.

We stand with our brothers in Greece who are against compulsory vaccines and Vaccine passports.

Are you waking up people to what is happening.

You wont see this on the news. ! ,   !#NoVaccinePassports #EnoughIsEnough #ItEndsWithUs pic.twitter.com/QdUciUOQnG  Shaun K (@skbytes) July 14, 2021

As we highlighted yesterday, police in Paris were forced to used tear gas to disperse rioters who were irate at the governments plan to impose similar measures, including banning the unvaccinated from public transport.

Cities across France were hit with unruly demonstrations, with the Yellow Vest movement, which ended as a result of the first lockdown in March 2020, seemingly being resurrected.

There are plans to implement some form of vaccine passport in virtually every major western country, but judging by the response so far, it will face massive resistance from the public.

Massive protests all over Greece today after the prime minister issued what is essentially medical apartheid. The media is trying to spin it as an anti vaccine protest instead of what its really about : freedom of choice and bodily autonomy. https://t.co/tR2SoRlOc6  Eve (@EviEvakii) July 14, 2021

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HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month.

The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey.

Heres the situation in Pennsylvania:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Pennsylvanias court-ordered housing eviction moratorium ended in August 2020, but there also have been local moratoriums in at least two cities. In Philadelphia, an order that requires landlords to go through the Philadelphia Eviction Diversion Program before seeking a court eviction for nonpayment of rent is also about to expire but advocates say it may be extended. In Harrisburg, a citywide eviction moratorium  which also extended to rooming houses  expired in mid-June. In January, the state Supreme Court modified rules for landlords, giving them more time to seek repossession of their properties.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

In January, Pennsylvania used its share of the federal pandemic housing relief money to set up the $570 million Emergency Rental Assistance Program, which helps with rent, overdue rent, utilities and other housing-related costs linked to COVID-19. Another $280 million went directly to the state's larger counties and Pittsburgh. The program got running in March, but in some cases the money is just starting to be distributed.

There are tens of thousands of pending applications for the federal support in Philadelphia alone, according to Community Legal Services. There have also been grassroots efforts to support renters in Pittsburgh and Harrisburg. In the Harrisburg area, the Fair Housing Council of the Capital Region has conducted outreach, attending eviction hearings with renters and spreading information about the help they can provide.

Matthew Rich, a tenants lawyer for MidPenn Legal Services in Harrisburg, said Dauphin County has paid out rental support to slightly more than 200 applicants since March 1, but still has nearly 2,000 applications pending. I don't think it can be stressed enough how flooded the ERAP application system is across the board, across the state, Rich said.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Lawyers say procedures and practices have varied across the state, in some cases from courtroom to courtroom within a county. Early on during the pandemic, some judges put a hold on all eviction proceedings while others continued to evict renters for such issues as criminal activity, damage to a unit or having unauthorized people living in a home. Since early this year, courts have generally been handling eviction cases but not issuing final eviction orders in cases of nonpayment of rent. That has meant in many cases that landlords have not been authorized to take possession of their properties and change locks. Community Legal Services says about 2,000 renters in Philadelphia alone are poised to be evicted once the city courts begin to authorize that step.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Experts say there is a shortage of quality affordable housing in Pennsylvania, with a significant percentage of renters paying 30% to 50% of their gross income on rent. Like for a two-bedroom apartment, we're looking at an average of $1,000 a month, said Rita Dallago with the Pennsylvania Residential Owners Association in Camp Hill.

Philadelphia is affordable compared to other big cities, but it's the poorest of the nation's 10 largest cities, making its housing less affordable for its residents. Rich said affordable rental units can often be of lower quality. If you find a place that's affordable, it's usually affordable because there are problems with the property which make it affordable, Rich said.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

A recent U.S. Census Bureau study suggests more than 73,000 Pennsylvanians are somewhat likely or very likely to lose their homes to eviction over the coming two months. Many people involved with tenants and landlords fear there will be a spike in homelessness.

That's what we're hearing, Dallago said. And we do have a housing shortage  there's no two ways about it. And this housing shortage is going to get worse before it gets better.
Ron Kaiserman 63, P07

Partner, Kaiserman Co.

Elected 2013

Term Trustee, 20132017



Ron Kaiserman is a partner of the Kaiserman Co., the real-estate acquisition, development and management firm his father founded in the 1920s. The company manages more than four million square feet of office, commercial and residential properties in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.

Ron founded and serves as president of an affiliated real-estate firm, Shiramax. He supports a number of organizations in his hometown, including the Prince Music Theater, the Academy of Music of Philadelphia, the American Jewish Committee and Jewish Community Centers of Greater Philadelphia.

Along with his late brother Ken 60, Ron established the Kevy and Hortense Kaiserman Chair in the Humanities in honor of his parents, who were among the visionaries who helped found Brandeis. He also created a scholarship fund and served on the board of the Brandeis Alumni Association. His daughter, Shira, is a 2007 Brandeis graduate.
A Westman MLA has resigned from the provincial cabinet after Premier Brian Pallisters controversial comments on colonialism and reconciliation from last week.

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A Westman MLA has resigned from the provincial cabinet after Premier Brian Pallisters controversial comments on colonialism and reconciliation from last week.

As first reported by the Winnipeg Free Press on Wednesday morning, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Minister and Agassiz Progressive Conservative MLA Eileen Clarke has stepped down from her position.

Pallister drew public ire last week after denouncing vandalism to statues of Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II on Canada Day by claiming that Europeans who settled in Canada had only positive intentions.

Indigenous leaders across the province accused the premier of trying to rewrite history and ignore past injustices done to Indigenous people in Canada.

Agassiz encompasses Westman communities such as Neepawa, Carberry and Gladstone, among others. Clarke has represented the constituency since a 2016 byelection and has been on the Indigenous file for the provincial government since.

According to the Free Press, Clarkes decision to leave was communicated earlier this week and blindsided the premier and his senior staff.

Clarkes decision was backed up online by Tory backbencher and McPhillips MLA Shannon Martin.

"Shitty that its come to this, but her decision is understandable," Martin posted on Twitter.

Premier grilled

Though a Wednesday afternoon media conference featuring the premier and chief provincial public health officer Dr. Brent Roussin was intended to be a launch for the next round of Manitobas COVID-19 reopening plan, the Clarke news shared the spotlight.

The first question Pallister had to tackle on the subject was whether he and Clarke saw eye to eye on the issue of finding unmarked graves at former residential school sites.

"Absolutely. I think its a tremendous opportunity for Canadians to better understand our history and better understand the mistakes of the past so they arent repeated," he said.

Asked if he took responsibility for Clarkes resignation, Pallister said he stood by what he said.

"Thats a tough, tough portfolio and Eileens done a tremendous job in it," he said. "We need to continue with the work that shes helped set the stage for doing more with. Im tremendously appreciative of her work and Ill never stop loving Eileen Clarke."

Pallister was also pressed on how Manitobans can take his commitments to reconciliation seriously given previous comments he made last week and before.

"Id like to ask you to read last weeks comments with an open mind and ask yourself if I didnt pay tribute to the building of this country by Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, because I did," he said. "Id like you to look at it with an objective heart and mind and then look at my record and the record of my government in terms of reconciliation and making progress on it."

For Indigenous people not convinced of his record, the premier said they were entitled to their opinions.

The premier did not answer directly when asked if Clarkes resignation was a positive step toward reconciliation, saying he didnt want to comment on anything other than the former ministers good work in her role.

On a couple of occasions, Pallister declined to answer questions about Clarkes resignation, saying there would be an opportunity for them to be asked today.

First revolt since gang of five

Speaking to the Sun by phone ahead of Pallisters media conference, Brandon University associate professor and political science department chair Kelly Saunders said the last time Manitoba saw something like this happen was when the so-called "gang of five" resigned from cabinet under NDP premier Greg Selingers government.

"We do have a history of that in this province, but certainly not during the Pallister years have we seen this," she said. "This is new."

Saunders expressed doubt that the premier would be able to effectively control the damage from this latest turn of events.

"Through his spokesperson, we kinda saw the premier double down and refuse to apologize and in fact, parade out a series of what he thought were positive measures in his commitment to reconciliation that really fell flat and made the situation worse," she said about the aftermath of Pallisters comments from last week.

"He doesnt seem to have a sense of when its time to own up, maybe, to your comments if you felt you misspoke or were misrepresented and to take ownership or explain where youre coming from. This premier just seems to have a knee-jerk reaction of doubling down or shifting blame, making the matter worse."

While there are still two years until the next provincial election and fortunes can change over time, Saunders believes members of Pallisters party are thinking of him as an albatross.

"He is their biggest Achilles heel, and its going to be very difficult for them to salvage another winning government in the next election," she said.

No comment from Clarke, local MLAs

The Sun reached out to Clarkes constituency office to request an interview and received a reply stating that she would not be providing any comment to the media on Wednesday out of respect for the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs election happening the same day.

Brandons three MLAs  Len Isleifson, Central Services Minister Reg Helwer and Education Minister Cliff Cullen  did not respond to a request for comment on Pallisters comments and Clarkes resignation.

In a phone interview held Wednesday afternoon, Manitoba NDP Leader Wab Kinew noted that no ministers had resigned because of the crisis at Maples Long Term Care Home or after ICU patients from Manitoba had to be sent out of province during the peak of the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"This cabinet has stuck through many, many terrible things with Mr. Pallister," Kinew said. "His comments last week were racist and divisive and they were wrong, but to see Minister Clarke leave now suggests to me that theres a push on to get rid of Mr. Pallister. The question these other cabinet ministers need to answer is, do they agree with Mr. Pallisters racist comments? Do they support those comments or are they with Minister Clarke?"

Kinew believes that the premier doubling down on his comments from last week shows he didnt learn from the experience, even after a member of his cabinet resigned over them.

"Thats the thing thats dogged us throughout the pandemic: Mr. Pallister cant learn from his mistakes because he wont admit that he makes any mistakes."

In a statement sent to members of the media by email, Manitoba Liberal Leader Dougald Lamont applauded Clarkes decision to resign.

"A couple of years ago, I attended a meeting of the Southern Chiefs Organization at Long Plain First Nation. Ms. Clarke was scheduled to only provide greetings from the province but instead, for over two hours straight, she answered every single question from chiefs that were present," Lamont wrote. "Through this action, Minister Clarke displayed that she has always attempted to have an open dialogue between Manitoba and Indigenous leadership. Pallister has always made her job difficult, but the premiers latest fact-free historical revisionism, made her job as Minister of Indigenous and Northern Relations impossible. Eileen Clarke has done the right thing, for Indigenous People, and for Manitobans. She deserves credit for that."

The premier was also asked about the Free Press report from earlier this week that two members of the Progressive Conservative caucus had not been vaccinated against COVID-19, but declined to comment, citing privacy concerns.

 cslark@brandonsun.com

 Twitter: @ColinSlark

BREAKOUT BOX FOR THE PAGE 2 TURN: Cabinet shuffle

Premier Brian Pallister is changing things up after the resignation of Indigenous and Northern Affairs Minister Eileen Clarke became public knowledge on Wednesday.

Manitobas cabinet is being shuffled, with the swearing-in ceremony for the new ministers taking place today at 10 a.m. at the Legislative Building in Winnipeg.

A media availability for Pallister and the new cabinet will then be held at 11 a.m. at the Legislative Buildings grand staircase.

Both events will be streamed live on the provinces YouTube page, youtube.com/ManitobaGovernment.

The provinces previous cabinet shuffle took place in early January and saw new health, education and justice ministers appointed, among other changes.

 The Brandon Sun
Premier Brian Pallisters attempt to quell a firestorm over Manitobas history with Indigenous people backfired Thursday, when the new minister hed just appointed to steer reconciliation suggested residential schools were started with good intentions.

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Premier Brian Pallisters attempt to quell a firestorm over Manitobas history with Indigenous people backfired Thursday, when the new minister hed just appointed to steer reconciliation suggested residential schools were started with good intentions.

The comments came just moments into the job, prompting the Opposition leader to interrupt a press conference Thursday morning.

Now, Indigenous leaders are declining phone calls and demanding apologies.

"The residential school system was designed to take Indigenous children and give them the skills and abilities they would need to fit into society as it moved forward," Selkirk MLA Alan Lagimodiere told reporters shortly after being sworn in as minister of Indigenous reconciliation and northern relations.

"At the time, they really thought that they were doing the right thing. I'm saddened by the fact that it took individuals so long to recognize that process wasn't working."

Lagimodiere, who is Metis, acknowledged that those running the schools forbade Indigenous children from practising their languages and cultures.

"They thought they were doing the right thing. In retrospect it's easy to judge," he said.

NDP Leader Wab Kinew, who is First Nations, interrupted the news conference, walking up to Lagimodiere to confront him.

"I cannot accept you saying what you just said about residential schools," Kinew said, noting officials had stated they wanted to use the schools to replace all Indigenous language and culture with European ways of life.

"Any right-minded person at the time should have known and would have known  and many did know, and spoke up against it," Kinew said.

STEVE LAMBERT / THE CANADIAN PRESS Selkirk MLA Alan Lagimodiere, Manitoba's new minister responsible for Indigenous affairs, is confronted by Opposition leader Wab Kinew while making a statement to the press about residential schools.

"We'll give you a chance, but you can't be out here defending residential schools if you want to work with Indigenous communities."

Lagimodiere later tweeted that he "misspoke" in his 14 minutes at the podium, and he acknowledged the schools sought to "eradicate Indigenous culture," but he did not offer an apology.

Notable quotes It didnt take long for the new minister to show where his true loyalties lie The current provincial administration is obviously awash in racial bias and is beholden to a leader with an innate dislike for First Nation people.  Southern Chiefs' Organization Grand Chief Jerry Daniels click to read more It didnt take long for the new minister to show where his true loyalties lie The current provincial administration is obviously awash in racial bias and is beholden to a leader with an innate dislike for First Nation people.  Southern Chiefs' Organization Grand Chief Jerry Daniels Any progress at reconciliation has been set back and may be impossible while this government is in power.  Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Grand Chief Garrison Settee As a historian of residential schooling, Im appalled. They are dangerously out of touch with not only where most Manitobans are on this issue, but where the country seems to be going, particularly in this moment of reckoning. They're showing reckless abandoning of the truth.  University of Manitoba historian Sean Carleton I think its important that we do what we can to bring the community together and, unfortunately, todays comments will be viewed by many, including myself, as a step back in our reconciliation efforts here in Manitoba. I was quite shocked to hear them.  Winnipeg Mayor Brian Bowman Close

Former senator Murray Sinclair, who chaired the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, was unimpressed.

"They are trying to unring the bell now," Sinclair told the Free Press.

"Its a terrible thing to say. He should never have said it, and we should never forget he said that."

Kinew later told reporters that Lagimodiere might be among a cohort of Indigenous people who dont know their history due to colonial education systems.

The Manitoba Metis Federation was less sympathetic, arguing any Metis citizen who lived in the North would know about the legacy of assimilationist policies.

"Hes raised in the North. There's no way in hell this would be his position. He'd know the struggles of the Metis," said MMF president David Chartrand.

"It's unbelievable and unforgivable. It's an insult to all of those who went to day schools, to residential school, and all of those who lost their rights."

Its a terrible thing to say. He should never have said it, and we should never forget he said that.  Former senator Murray Sinclair

Lagimodiere said Thursday that the Pallister government had gone "above and beyond" what the TRC demanded for reconciliation, and that hed start his job by phoning each main Indigenous leader.

Chartrand said hed decline that call.

"Im not wasting an ounce of my energy for a minister that has no power and no jurisdiction and clearly is foolish enough to believe he does," he said.

He further criticized Lagimodiere for not speaking out during the premiers multiple spats with the MMF, including the federations difficulty in securing COVID-19 data and vaccines.

"It's just heartbreaking to watch this happen in front of us, and for a Metis person to sell their soul, or sell their principles, just to have that title of minister," Chartrand said.

"Im saddened he's allowed himself to be used by this premier."

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Selkirk MLA Alan Lagimodiere suggested residential schools were started with good intentions.

The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs said Lagimodieres comments were racist, but is open to working with him; regional chiefs demanded an apology and called for cabinet ministers to learn more about the province's history.

Thursdays cabinet shuffle was an attempt to change the channel after a torrent of criticism that culminated in the resignation of Eileen Clarke from the Indigenous and northern relations cabinet portfolio.

Respect in Selkirk The mayor of Selkirk says he has had a good working relationship with Alan Lagimodiere since the Tory MLA was elected in 2016. Larry Johannson said Lagimodiere, who was elevated to cabinet Thursday after Eileen Clarke resigned as Indigenous affairs minister, is well-respected in the community. click to read more The mayor of Selkirk says he has had a good working relationship with Alan Lagimodiere since the Tory MLA was elected in 2016. Larry Johannson said Lagimodiere, who was elevated to cabinet Thursday after Eileen Clarke resigned as Indigenous affairs minister, is well-respected in the community. "If he wanted a high-profile role right now, I think hes got it," said Johannson. He said he hopes having a representative from Selkirk in cabinet will help to advance infrastructure projects in his city. It bodes well for his constituents, including people who are First Nations and Metis, the mayor said. Lagimodiere, who is Metis and originally from The Pas, has been a practising veterinarian for decades and a member of the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association in good standing since 1985. He and his wife ran Selkirk Veterinary Services for more than 25 years. The executive director of the Selkirk and District Chamber of Commerce, Sheri Skalesky, said he listens to the local business community. He reached out to us right from the start and ever since then hes been in regular contact," said Skalesky. "Lagimodiere has always been very (engaging) and very approachable."  Erik Pindera Close

Last week, Pallister had suggested the people who came to the place that became Canada meant only to build things up, not destroy anything.

The premier doubled down earlier this week, and on Thursday said his remarks about people coming here to build things up included Indigenous people.

"Thousands of years ago, people came here as newcomers," Pallister said. "Indigenous people were the first Canadians. They were newcomers at that point in time."

The premier said "subsequent newcomers" from Europe survived only with the help of Indigenous people, and that is a model for reconciliation.

University of Manitoba historian Sean Carleton said that plays into tropes that Indigenous people walked from Asia to Alaska, and are thus immigrants.

"Its an attempt to delegitimize Indigenous people's millennia on these lands, from time immemorial," he said.

"I see it in chatrooms and right-wing blogs; I'm surprised the premier of the province, in a time when he's trying to calm things down is using these sort of dog-whistle claims."

Its an attempt to delegitimize Indigenous people's millennia on these lands, from time immemorial.  Historian Sean Carleton

Brandon University political scientist Kelly Saunders contrasted those comments with Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus contrite 2019 apology for disguising himself in blackface at a high school event in the 1980s. Trudeau said hed learned since then, putting an end to the issue for many Canadians.

"When were backed into a corner and we know there's no way out, most of us try to reach out, to self-reflect on our own actions and maybe learn from our mistakes and listen to others," Saunders said. "Then we try to move forward in a new fashion.

"There is that playbook, but unfortunately this premier seems unwilling or unable to do the right thing."

TWITTER Later Thursday, the minister issued a tweet, saying "in the moment, (he) misspoke."

In a tweet after the incident, the Progressive Conservative party caucus said Kinew had bullied Lagimodiere.

"The political showmanship of storming into someone else's press conference to bully a minister who was sworn in only 10 minutes earlier does nothing to advance that reconciliation," reads the tweet, which the party deleted after about a half-hour.

Kinew had said he is an honorary witness for the TRC, which the commission defined as people who help record historical events and defend the truth as part Indigenous oral traditions.

 with files from Kevin Rollason

dylan.robertson@freepress.mb.ca
OTTAWA - An international task force that includes three Canadian members of Parliament says social media sites must be held accountable for driving users to extremist content and legislators should consider regulations to combat the rise of antisemitism online.

Justice Committee chair Anthony Housefather waits to start an in-camera meeting in Ottawa, Tuesday March 19, 2019. An international task force that includes three Canadian members of Parliament says legislators should consider regulations to combat the rise of antisemitism online. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld

OTTAWA - An international task force that includes three Canadian members of Parliament says social media sites must be held accountable for driving users to extremist content and legislators should consider regulations to combat the rise of antisemitism online.

Liberal MP Anthony Housefather, along with Conservative Marty Morantz and the NDP's Randall Garrison, are joined by politicians from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia and Israel.

The task force was formed last September because of what lawmakers report is a distributing rise in antisemitism, with most of what they see happening online and in social media posts, which transcend countries' borders.

During a late Wednesday press conference, members as an example pointed to its rise following the Jan. 6 attack on the United States Capitol in Washington.

Another event several lawmakers said inflamed this type of discrimination was the recent fighting between Israel-Hamas.

"After the Gaza conflict, I have to say that I have never in my lifetime seen levels of antisemitism the way they have been in recent weeks," Housefather said, following the release of the task force's interim report.

"I've had families in my district come to me to tell me that they were afraid of having their kids play in parks wearing their kippas. I've had people tell me that they were worried about their mezuzahs being on their doors. We've had people driving through streets yelling hateful epithets at Jews.

"I've never seen that happen in this way in my country."

The report urged all levels of government and social media providers tofirst adopt a universal definition of antisemitism.

"The reality is that if we cannot clearly define a problem, we simply cannot effectively combat it," said Morantz.

It also recommended they should consider antisemitism in the context of online extremism. Housefather says antisemitism is not only a form of hate, but also disinformation, and pointed to how popular conspiracy theories, like QAnon, are connected to discriminatory beliefs about Jewish people.

The task force also called for countries to consider using independent oversight and regulation "where appropriate" to create safer spaces online.

"We applaud the advances that some platforms have made, but note that all still have significant work to do in order to address online antisemitic content," it reads.

Housefather illustrated the issue by saying people who are Holocaust deniers are not being driven to content that counters such falsehoods, but the algorithms used by social media giants are seeing them fed more of the same information.

He said companies need to held "accountable" for their algorithms and described how a regulator could ensure they follow their own policies when it comes removing hateful posts.

Last month, the Liberal government introduced a bill proposing to tackle online hate speech and propaganda on the eve of the House of Commons breaking for summer.

As the task force noted, the bill has yet to be debated by MPs. And what happens to that legislation could be determined by whether Canadians are sent to the polls before the House is set to reconvene in September.

Coming up with tougher measures to get websites to take down such content was something anti-hate and Jewish organizations told the task force it believed countries needed to do.

According to the report, the Australia-based Online Hate Prevention Institute recommended governments consider reforms that could allow them to levy sanctions against out-of-country companies that fail to remove "unlawful content inciting hatred or violent extremism" after enough time has passed.

The Canadian-based Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies also asked governments to develop clear rules for social media websites and search engines about preventing hate speech.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 14, 2021.
OTTAWA - Green party executives have taken a first step toward suspending Annamie Paul's membership in the party she leads, the latest development in a feud that has threatened her future in the top job.

Green party Leader Annamie Paul listens to a reporter's question at a press conference on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/ Patrick Doyle

OTTAWA - Green party executives have taken a first step toward suspending Annamie Paul's membership in the party she leads, the latest development in a feud that has threatened her future in the top job.

Dana Taylor, interim executive director of the Greens' main governing body, has kicked off a membership review that would suspend Paul's status and bar her from representing the party while it is underway, say three senior party sources. The Canadian Press granted the them anonymity because they were not authorized to speak about internal matters publicly.

The process, as outlined in the members' code of conduct, could ultimately result inPaul's party membership being revoked altogether, freezing her ability to lead a political party she would no longer belong to, ahead of a likely federal election this year.

The review emerged from a special meeting of the federal council Tuesday night, where Taylor announced the probe would go forward. Paul, who sits on the 13-member body, was not invited to the virtual meeting, the sources say.

They say the stated reason for the review is that Paul launched legal proceedings against the party, an accusation disputed by officials close to the leader. The code of conduct says legal action against the Green Party of Canada by one of its members automatically triggers a review headed by the executive director.

All three sources say the legal proceeding referred to in the membership review concerns a cease-and-desist letter sent from Paul's legal counsel to a federal council member or members. The details of the letter and whether it constitutes a legal action against the party  and is thus grounds for a review  remain unclear.

Taylor and party spokeswoman Rosie Emery both declined to comment, while Paul was not immediately available on Wednesday.

The membership review follows a months-long battle between party factions, in part over clashing views about how the party and its leader should respond to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Paul, who has led the party for nine months, faces a non-confidence vote by federal council on July 20 in a process distinct from the membership review. The non-confidence proposal requires three-quarters support in order to proceed to a party-wide vote the following month at a general meeting, where grassroots could render judgment on Paul's leadership.

Separately, the party brass has recently moved to withhold funding from Paul's campaign to win a downtown Toronto seat and temporarily laid off about half of the Green party's employees last week, including all staff in the leader's office.

All this has happened while the party recovers from New Brunswick MP Jenica Atwin crossing the floor to the Liberals last month, leaving the Greens with two seats in the House of Commons.

Last month, Paul fired back against party executives in response to an earlier move to push her out, calling them out for "racist" and "sexist" accusations that were included in a letter obtained by The Canadian Press. She is the first Black woman to lead a federal political party in Canada.

Green party membership can be revoked by a bare majority of council members present at a meeting following a review, the code of conduct says. The rules state that Paul, as a member of the federal council, would not be allowed to take part in any deliberations.

Membership rights are suspended until the matter is settled. A member is allowed 30 days to prepare their defence in front of party brass after being informed of a review.

The council is in an election period at the moment, with much of the current body poised to turn over as of Aug. 20. That leaves just enough time for executives to vote on their leaders status as a Green following her month-long defence period before they vacate their council seats.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 14, 2021.
OTTAWA - For the first time, a federal judge has expressly granted Canada's spy agency warrants to operate abroad even if it means breaking another country's laws.

A sign for the Canadian Security Intelligence Service building is shown in Ottawa on May 14, 2013. For the first time, a federal judge has expressly granted Canada's spy agency warrants to operate abroad even if it means breaking another country's laws. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

OTTAWA - For the first time, a federal judge has expressly granted Canada's spy agency warrants to operate abroad even if it means breaking another country's laws.

Federal Court Justice Simon Noel authorized warrants for the Canadian Security Intelligence Service five months ago, but public reasons in the top-secret matter were issued only this week.

The extraterritorial warrant powers allow CSIS to carry out specific investigations in other countries, either directly or with the assistance of foreign partners, concerning threats to the security of Canada.

The court's reasons mention no details about the nature of the particular threats being investigated, the techniques authorized or the region of the world where the probes would take place.

CSIS has always been able to probe security threats in Canada and abroad, but for years there was a lack of clarity on the extent of those powers overseas.

Legislative changes that took effect six years ago gave judges the authority to issue warrants permitting CSIS operations abroad, even when they might run afoul of another country's laws, but this is the first public indication of the powers' use.

Noel said CSIS may execute these powers outside Canada with the assistance of the Communications Security Establishment  the federal cyberspy service  and with foreign agencies acting under their own legal frameworks.

The application was supported by an affidavit sworn by a senior CSIS employee, Noel noted.

Given that it was the first CSIS application seeking these full extraterritorial warrant powers, Noel appointed Gordon Cameron, an experienced and security-cleared lawyer, as amicus curiae to assist the court.

During a full-day, closed-door hearing, the CSIS employee answered questions from Noel, counsel for the attorney general and Cameron.

When a warrant is issued, a judge's reasons are not automatically made public, except where they raise matters of an exceptional nature, Noel said.

In this case, the court believes the reasons "will be useful to the Canadian public, CSIS and the Attorney General of Canada in promoting the open court principle to ensure that the publics confidence in a judicial process that must at times operate contrary to this principle," he added.

In his original reasons, dated Feb. 17, Noel said the CSIS employee who testified said that, in the context of the planned operations, the spy service would not engage in activities that would be illegal in a foreign country.

In subsequent written and oral evidence, the employee said there might, in fact, be situations in which CSIS might need to carry out such activities abroad.

In supplementary reasons, dated June 10, Noel said he was satisfied that "in this case factual circumstances exist that might necessitate the Service using the powers without regard to the law of a foreign state."

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 15, 2021.
WINNIPEG - Manitobas justice minister has written to the provincial law society requesting it investigate the conduct of lawyers working with an organization that hired a private investigator to follow a judge.

Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Cameron Friesen looks on during the daily briefing at the Manitoba Legislative Building, in Winnipeg, Thursday Aug. 27, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/David Lipnowski

WINNIPEG - Manitobas justice minister has written to the provincial law society requesting it investigate the conduct of lawyers working with an organization that hired a private investigator to follow a judge.

"It is gravely concerning that a private investigator was hired to conduct surveillance of a member of the judiciary, ostensibly to embarrass or intimidate the judge," Cameron Friesen said in a statement Thursday.

Friesen said, as attorney general of Manitoba, he has asked the Law Society of Manitoba to initiate an investigation into the lawyers with the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms.

The centre is representing a group of churches in Manitoba that are challenging COVID-19 public health orders.

John Carpay stepped down as president of the Justice Centre this week after admitting in court to hiring a private investigator to follow the judge presiding over that case.

Friesen said he is gravely concerned by the actions of the centre and wants the lawyers involved to be held accountable.

"This is an obvious invasion of privacy and it is difficult to believe that these actions were not intended to influence the outcome of the court case," he said.

Lisa Bildy, interim president of the Justice Centre, responded to Friesen's comments and a Law Society complaint in a release Thursday night.

"These efforts to damage the professional reputations of our lawyers are groundless and unjustified," Bildy said in a statement.

"None of our staff lawyers or outside counsel ... had knowledge of or involvement in the surveillance of officials."

Bildy said the Justice Centre is already on record as saying that Carpay made "an egregiously poor decision, and has been condemned unequivocally by the Justice Centre's Board of Directors."

She noted that it was a unilateral decision made by one person in the organization who has departed on an indefinite leave of absence.

Bildy said in the meantime, the Justice Centre will continue its work.

Jay Cameron, another lawyer representing the Justice Centre in the challenge, told the court he was not involved in the decision to hire the investigator but had known about it for a couple of weeks.

The Law Society of Manitoba said earlier this week that it is looking into what happened, but would not comment on specifics of the case because investigations and complaints are confidential.

The Law Society of Alberta, which would be Carpay's regulator, would not say whether there's an investigation into his actions.

An Ottawa human rights lawyer confirmed he had filed a professional misconduct complaint with the society against Carpay, as well as against two other lawyers with the Justice Centre.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 15, 2021.
WASHINGTON - The two sides in the ongoing dispute over the Line 5 pipeline say they expect their mediation efforts to conclude before the end of August  just as opposition to a second cross-border energy conduit is ramping up.

This June 2020 photo, shot from a television screen provided by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy shows damage to anchor support EP-17-1 on the east leg of the Enbridge Line 5 pipeline within the Straits of Mackinac in Michigan. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy via AP

WASHINGTON - The two sides in the ongoing dispute over the Line 5 pipeline say they expect their mediation efforts to conclude before the end of August  just as opposition to a second cross-border energy conduit is ramping up.

A court-approved mediator says in court documents he will meet again Aug. 11 with officials from the state of Michigan and Enbridge Inc., Line 5's Calgary-based owner.

The documents, filed late last week in Western District Court in Michigan, offer no added clues as to the state of the dispute, which has been raging since November.

That's when Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, citing the risk of a spill in the Straits of Mackinac, where the line crosses the Great Lakes, abruptly revoked the easement that had allowed it to operate since 1953.

Enbridge insists the pipeline is safe and has already received the state's approval for a $500-million effort to dig a tunnel beneath the straits that would house the line's twin pipes and protect them from anchor strikes.

The company has made it clear it has no intention of shutting down the pipeline voluntarily.

While the dispute centres on whether the pipeline can continue to operate safely, the court case in particular is focused on matters of jurisdiction. Enbridge wants the case heard by a federal judge because a shutdown would raise "substantial federal questions," while the state insists it is for Michigan to resolve alone.

In a court filing of its own, Canada's federal government tried to up the ante, warning of damage to its relationship with the U.S. and the risk of undermining the future credibility of American foreign-policy decisions.

The court should instead set aside the case and give the two countries a chance to negotiate a settlement under the terms of a 1977 treaty that specifically governs pipelines that cross the border, Canada argued.

Michigan's attorney general has rejected that argument, casting doubts on whether any substantial bilateral discussions have even taken place. That prompted lawyers for the federal government to write to the court last month to insist that such talks are indeed ongoing.

"Representatives of the two countries are meeting bi-weekly to address the potential shutdown, including in the context of the 1977 treaty," wrote Gordon Giffin, a former ambassador to Canada himself who is serving as the federal government's lawyer in the case.

"Canada continues to believe that it would be contrary to the interest of both Canada and the United States, and contrary to the intent of the treaty, for court proceedings relating to the shutdown to proceed while this diplomatic process is ongoing."

Advocates, including Natural Resources Minister Seamus O'Regan, say Line 5 delivers more than half the propane and home heating oil consumed in Michigan, and is a vital source of energy for Ohio and Pennsylvania as well, to say nothing of Ontario and Quebec.

Shutting it down would be an environmental disaster in its own right, they argue, resulting in gasoline shortages, price spikes and some 800 additional oil-laden railcars and 2,000 tanker trucks per day on railways and highways throughout Central Canada and the U.S. Midwest.

As Line 5 has receded from the spotlight, however, environmentalists, activists and Indigenous communities in nearby Minnesota have set their sights on Enbridge's efforts to upgrade and expand Line 3, which carries heavy and crude oil 1,765 kilometres between Edmonton and Superior, Wis.

Opponents asked the Minnesota Supreme Court on Wednesday to overturn the regulatory approvals that allowed construction to begin last year. Protesters have been flocking to the Minnesota construction site ever since, hoping to conjure the same public outrage that helped to doom the defunct Keystone XL expansion project.

Enbridge is spending US$7.5 billion on the project, including $2.6 billion on the American leg. The company says the expansion would increase capacity by the equivalent of 10,000 railcars or 24,000 tanker trucks each day.

Opponents have long argued that expanding and upgrading cross-border pipelines will lead to more dependence on crude oil from Alberta's controversial oilsands, exacerbating concerns about climate change and the risk of spills in ecologically sensitive areas and Indigenous lands.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 15, 2021.

 With files from The Associated Press
MONTREAL - A Montreal police officer on trial for sexual assault denied groping the alleged victim and told a judge on Wednesday he was only trying to be benevolent by driving her back to her hotel in the dead of winter.

MONTREAL - A Montreal police officer on trial for sexual assault denied groping the alleged victim and told a judge on Wednesday he was only trying to be benevolent by driving her back to her hotel in the dead of winter.

Montreal police officer Roger Frechette faces one count of sexual assault against a woman from Ontario who was visiting Montreal in February 2019. He was the first police officer to be charged following an independent investigation by Quebec's police watchdog, the Bureau des enquetes independantes.

Montreal police officer Roger Frechette leaves the courtroom for the lunch break in his sexual assault trial, Tuesday, July 13, 2021 in Montreal.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz

The alleged victim is a woman in her 40s whose identity is protected by a publication ban. She had come to Montreal with her boyfriend for a Valentine's Day weekend when they were arrested downtown because they were arguing on the street after a night of drinking.

She testified earlier that Frechette made comments about her private parts when she was partially naked in her cell and later took her to her hotel room, where he allegedly groped her, licked her neck, grabbed her genital area and put her hand on his crotch.

Taking the stand in his own defence, Frechette denied anything happened. "None, no sexual attraction," he insisted. He said he made no sexual comments toward the victim and by taking her to her hotel was just trying to help, as she had told him she had no money and didn't know how to find her hotel.

"I was simply trying to help her," Frechette, 56, told the trial being heard by Quebec court Judge Lori Renee Weitzman.

He testified that after keeping tabs on her during his shift, he decided to wait for her outside the police station in his car after his shift, which coincided with her being released by police at around 5:30 a.m.

Frechette said he felt responsible for the woman's well-being after talking to her several times while she was in detention, and he had three hours to kill before a medical appointment that morning.

"I wanted to be sure she knew the route, she knew where to go," Frechette testified. Noting the alleged victim didn't have a jacket in -20C weather, he decided to give her a lift.

"It was a bit stupid. I shouldn't have done it," Frechette told the court.

He said he followed the woman into her hotel room because she said she wanted to make sure she could get into the building and told him she needed to talk. He said he later understood that to mean she was looking for money for a train ticket or a ride back to her home, which he refused.

Frechette testified that once he refused, it was the woman who groped him, and that when that happened, he pushed her away and left the hotel room as she stripped to take a shower. He said she told him to come back after his medical appointment.

He explained his frequent visits to her cell, which she called "creepy" in her testimony, were to keep her calm as she had been agitated, screaming and disrupting other detainees trying to sleep.

Under cross-examination, Frechette said it was the first time he'd gone to such lengths for someone in police cells. He told prosecutor Andree-Anne Tremblay it never crossed his mind to just give her directions to her hotel or money for the bus or a taxi.

Frechette, a 34-year veteran of the force, has been suspended with pay. His cross-examination continues Thursday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 14, 2021.

Note to readers: This is a corrected story. A previous version said Frechette was suspended without pay.
VANCOUVER - More than 1,400 properties in British Columbia's Cariboo region have been placed on evacuation order as wildfires rage across the province.

A wildfire burns on the side of a mountain in Lytton, B.C., Thursday, July 1, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

VANCOUVER - More than 1,400 properties in British Columbia's Cariboo region have been placed on evacuation order as wildfires rage across the province.

The order from the Cariboo Regional District covers roughly 1,000 properties south of 100 Mile House and 482 properties in the Canim Lake area, with residents warned of "immediate danger" from wildfires.

The District of 100 Mile House, roughly 200 kilometres north of Kamloops, has been placed under an evacuation alert, which means residents have been told they may have to leave their homes with little notice.

The Thompson-Nicola Regional District has issued an evacuation order for 117 properties near Young Lake due to the encroaching Sparks Lake blaze, which remains out of control. The Grizzly Lake wildfire, which currently covers more than 28 square kilometres, has prompted the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako to issue an evacuation order for the area southeast of the 900 and 800 Road, including Naltesby Lake and Little Bobtail Lake.

Evacuation alerts have also been issued for the community of Cache Creek and two properties in Momich Lake, with residents asked to pack all essential items in case the alert is upgraded to an order.

It comes as much of central and eastern British Columbia is under a special weather bulletin warning of smoky skies, with an Environment Canada meteorologist cautioning about the long-term potential for smoke.

Environment Canada issued the special air quality statement warning about the smoke for the next few days in areas stretching from the Interior of B.C. to Yukon and the Alberta boundary.

Doug Lundquist, a meteorologist with the Meteorological Service of Canada, said B.C. residents should be prepared for smoky skies to linger into the fall.

"We're going to see this for months," he said in an interview. "There's smoke all over, from Alaska down to Mexico. All we need ... is the wind to go the wrong direction and bring it back up from other locations."

Four areas in the province also remain under a heat warning including the Fraser Canyon where the village of Lytton was destroyed by fire last month, with predicted daytime highs of up to 38 C.

Lundquist said the extreme heat that gripped much of the province and shattered records is a "once in my lifetime" event.

"I've done this job for 34 years and I don't remember seeing anything as extraordinary as this," he said. "The smoke is coming a month earlier than we've seen before and we've never, ever had the heat like we've had at the end of June."

The BC Wildfire Service said much of the central part of the province is at extreme risk of wildfires with more than 300 fires burning.

Two dozen of them are highly visible or pose a potential threat to public safety. More than 1,760 square kilometres of land has burned since the wildfire season started on April 1.

The wildfire service said in a statement that more than 98 per cent of that area is from wildfires crews are currently battling.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has convened the government's incident response group partly because of the wildfire situation in B.C. to discuss preparations the federal government can take.

The government said in a statement that Trudeau and cabinet ministers who are part of the group have agreed to closely monitor the situation and deal quickly with any requests for help from their provincial counterparts.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 14, 2021.
EDMONTON - The continuing spread of a fatal wildlife disease in Alberta and Saskatchewan has a federal agency recommending a deer cull across a wide swath of the Prairies.

A deer is seen at the Michel-Chartrand Park in Longueuil, Que., Friday, Nov. 13, 2020. The continuing spread of a fatal wildlife disease in Alberta and Saskatchewan has a federal agency recommending a deer cull across a wide swath of the Prairies. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Paul Chiasson

EDMONTON - The continuing spread of a fatal wildlife disease in Alberta and Saskatchewan has a federal agency recommending a deer cull across a wide swath of the Prairies.

And soon-to-be-published research on chronic wasting disease has raised new fears about whether the illness could infect humans.

"I would say this question was answered with 'yes,'" said Hermann Schaetzl, a veterinary scientist at the University of Calgary.

Schaetzl's work was discussed in a recent report from the Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute, which advises the federal government on agriculture policy. Earlier this month, the institute concluded that in addition to human health concerns, the disease's spread over the last decade threatens Western Canada's agriculture, wildlife and food security.

"It's continuing to increase in its spread and the speed of its spread," said Ted Bilyea, the institute's strategy officer.

Chronic wasting disease affects animals such as deer, caribou, moose and elk, attacking nervous systems with universally fatal results. Like mad cow disease or Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in humans, it is caused by prions  misshapen proteins that can persist in the environment for up to a decade, able to transfer their shape to healthy proteins.

It was first found in Canada in 1996. Since then, it has appeared in deer and elk in Saskatchewan, Alberta and Quebec.

In 2019, Alberta found 11 per cent of animals submitted by hunters tested positive, up from seven per cent in previous years. It was also found in moose for the first time.

Maps in the report show that in 2008 the disease was limited to isolated outbreaks in Alberta and Saskatchewan. Now, it's considered well-established throughout Alberta's southeast quarter and Saskatchewan's southern half.

The report also discussed an experiment conducted on macaque monkeys, considered the closest animal analog to humans.

In 2006, German scientists began feeding macaques with meat from animals infected with the disease. Because it can take years for the disease to show, the monkeys weren't euthanized and tested until two years ago.

The first tests were ambiguous. But Schaetzl, who helped conduct confirmatory tests, said it became clear the monkeys had developed low-level infections.

"The more we did, the more we could confirm the macaques were infected."

Although Schaetzl's work is still being peer-reviewed, it has been presented in conferences and is widely discussed among disease experts.

"I was shocked when we first learned of the results," said Neil Cashman, a leading prion expert at the University of British Columbia. "It's absolutely confirmative that this happened  you could give macaques a prion disease through oral consumption of contaminated meat."

Because the disease is so new and takes so long to develop, Cashman said there could already be people suffering from a human form of chronic wasting disease.

"(For) many people with a spinal cord syndrome, it wouldn't even occur to the treating neurologist that this could be a prion disease," he said. "It's going to take some education and alertness to even think of the diagnosis."

To keep tainted meat out of the food supply, Saskatchewan and Alberta require deer and elk farmers to test every animal that dies on their farms, including slaughtered animals. If the disease is found on an Alberta farm, the herd is depopulated and the farmer is prohibited from restocking with animals susceptible to it.

There have been no cases of cattle catching the disease from wild animals.

"It's easy to go down a doomsday scenario but I don't think we're there yet," said Dr. Keith Lehman, Alberta's provincial veterinarian. "I think it's low-risk."

He points out macaques may be close to humans, but they're still a different species.

Still, Bilyea warns chronic wasting disease threatens Alberta's wildlife. It's already shrinking Montana deer herds.

It also threatens hunters  especially those who depend on game to fill the freezer. The report warns of dire consequences if the disease gets into caribou, a threatened species in the mountains and a staple for many northern First Nations.

"The southern range (of caribou) is pretty much the northern range for our survey," Bilyea said. "If (prions) pass through that, then we have a genuine food security problem for our northern people."

The report's first recommendation is the creation of a deer-depopulated buffer zone to separate caribou range from infected animals.

"We don't have any buffer zone," said Bilyea. "It's not a very pleasant idea, but this is not a very pleasant topic."

Alberta has previously tried deer culls in an effort to keep the disease confined to Saskatchewan. But Lehman said it might be time to try again.

"It's worth considering," he said. "I think it's justified."

Chronic wasting disease also threatens the reputation of Canadian agriculture.

A 2003 outbreak of mad cow disease in northern Alberta damaged Canadian food exports for years. Norway has already passed regulations prohibiting the import of Canadian hay and straw from jurisdictions with chronic wasting disease.

Cashman said he no longer eats deer or elk.

"I hear the alarm bells going off," he said.

"I would have expected a human case to emerge in the U.S. before Canada. But on the weight of evidence, I think it's not only not impossible, it's kind of expected at this point."

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 15, 2021.

 Follow Bob Weber on Twitter at @row1960

Note to readers: This is a corrected story. An earlier version had the wrong first name for Alberta's provincial veterinarian.
The latest news on COVID-19 developments in Canada (all times eastern):

The latest news on COVID-19 developments in Canada (all times eastern):

6:15 p.m.

Alberta is reporting one death and 46 new COVID-19 infections for a total of 569 active cases.

The province says 33 of the 113 people in hospital are receiving intensive care.

The seven-day average of daily cases sits at 40.

Some 74.3 per cent of eligible people 12 and older have received at least one dose of vaccine.

The province has announced outdoor prizes including free fishing and hunting licences to try to get more people vaccinated.

5:15 p.m.

More than 50 per cent of all eligible adults in British Columbia are now fully vaccinated.

The Health Ministry says in a news release that 79.3 per cent of eligible people 12 and older have had their first shot.

The province is reporting 41 new cases of COVID-19 and no new deaths over the past 24 hours.

Hospitalizations are down to 65 people, 11 of whom are in intensive care.

3:35 p.m.

Saskatchewan is reporting 18 new cases of COVID-19 today, and no new deaths.

Thirty more people have recovered, leaving the province with 363 active cases.

The province is also reporting 54 people in hospital, including nine in intensive care.

Provincewide, 73 per cent of those aged 12 and older have now received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine.

Fifty-six per cent of those 12 and older are fully vaccinated.

According to provincial statistics, of the 2,000 new COVID-19 cases reported in June, over 80 per cent were in unvaccinated people.

2:35 p.m.

Yukon is expanding the number of people allowed to gather under COVID-19 restrictions with more than three-quarters of residents fully vaccinated.

Premier Sandy Silver and chief medical health officer Dr. Brendan Hanley say organized gatherings of up to 200 people will be allowed immediately with masks, physical distancing and other public health protocols in place.

Hanley is recommending that fully vaccinated people can have personal gatherings of up to 20 people indoors and 50 people outdoors, but the unvaccinated are encouraged to stick with their safe six because they are at significantly higher risk of infection.

Hanley also encouraged daycares to return to full capacity beginning Monday now that cases associated with daycares in Whitehorse are under control and most have recovered.

1:35 p.m.

Manitoba is reporting 53 new COVID-19 cases and no new deaths.

However, nine earlier cases have been removed due to data correction, for a net increase of 44.

The five-day test positivity rate has fallen to four per cent provincially and 3.8 per cent in Winnipeg.

12:30 p.m.

Nova Scotia is reporting no new cases of COVID-19 and three recoveries.

As of today, Nova Scotia has 28 active cases of COVID-19.

Of those, two people are in hospital COVID-19 units, including one in intensive care.

Since April 1, there have been 4,128 positive COVID-19 cases and 26 deaths.

12:15 p.m.

New Brunswick is once again reporting no new COVID-19 cases.

Health officials have reported no new infections for nine consecutive days.

There are two active reported cases of COVID-19 in the province and no one is in hospital with the disease.

About 53.5 of New Brunswickers aged 12 and over are fully vaccinated and 79.9 per cent of eligible New Brunswickers have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine.

11 a.m.

Quebec is reporting no deaths attributed to the novel coronavirus for the second consecutive day.

Health officials are also reporting 75 new cases of COVID-19 today.

Officials say hospitalizations dropped by six, to 79, and 25 people were in intensive care, unchanged since Tuesday.

Authorities say 91,241 doses of vaccine were administered in the past 24 hours.

The provinces public health institute says 82.5 per cent of residents over 12 have received at least one dose of vaccine and 49.7 per cent are considered fully vaccinated.

10:30 a.m.

Ontario reports 153 new cases of COVID-19 in the province and seven more deaths linked to the virus.

Health Minister Christine Elliott says there are 28 new cases in Toronto, 23 in the Region of Waterloo, and 20 in Grey Bruce Region.

The Ministry of Health says that 180 people are in intensive care due to the novel coronavirus and 116 are on a ventilator.

Elliott says that more than 179,000 doses of a COVID-19 vaccine were administered since Tuesday's report for a total of more than 17.4 million doses in the province.

10:25 a.m.

The Nunavut government says it will begin testing waste water for COVID-19 in Iqaluit and Rankin Inlet.

Chief public health officer Dr. Michael Patterson says testing is part of a three-month pilot project.

With Iqaluit sitting steady at zero cases, Patterson also says restrictions can be eased even more in the city starting Friday.

Outdoor gatherings limits will increase to 100 people, while 15 people will be allowed to gather in a household.

Restaurants, bars and places of worship can also open at 50 per cent capacity.

There are no cases of COVID-19 in Nunavut.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 14, 2021.
GASPE, Que. - Prime Minister Justin Trudeau travelled to Quebec's Gaspe region on Wednesday and made a campaign-style announcement of $25 million to expand a wind turbine plant to produce blades destined for markets in the United States and Europe.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, second left, greets tourists as he takes a stroll on the boardwalk near the Perce Rock with Minister of National Revenue Diane Lebouthillier, left, following a meeting on Wednesday, July 14, 2021 in Perce, Que. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jacques Boissinot

GASPE, Que. - Prime Minister Justin Trudeau travelled to Quebec's Gaspe region on Wednesday and made a campaign-style announcement of $25 million to expand a wind turbine plant to produce blades destined for markets in the United States and Europe.

The project is a joint partnership with the Quebec government and plant owner LM Wind Power, a Danish subsidiary of General Electric, to produce 107-metre-long blades that the federal government says would be the largest in the world.

"We have the skills, expertise and resources here in Canada to be leaders in clean technologies," Trudeau told a gathering at the plant in Gaspe, about 700 kilometres northeast of Quebec City, alongside Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne and local MP and federal Revenue Minister Diane Lebouthillier.

"And our government will continue to take real actions to develop our industrial advantage when it comes to renewable energy."

Trudeau repeatedly cited the turbine project as an example of how the need to fight climate change can lead to the creation of high-paying, green energy jobs.

Wednesday's announcement also gave him an opportunity to visit a riding that could be hotly contested in an eventual election.

Trudeau has refused to confirm whether there will be a fall election, but he has done little to quell the rumours with his recent flurry of travel and spending announcements. With speculation that an election call is weeks away, Trudeau quickly criticized the Conservatives following Wednesday's funding announcement.

After listing a series of green-energy investments his government has recently made, the prime minister said, "It's been six years I've been trying to explain to Conservatives  who refuse to listen but Canadians understand well  that fighting climate change and protecting the environment is the way to secure the jobs of the future."

The GaspesieLes Iles-de-la-Madeleine riding narrowly remained Liberal in the last election, with Lebouthillier defeating her Bloc Quebecois rival by fewer than 700 votes. In just over a decade, the mostly rural riding in the east of the province has been held by the Bloc, the NDP and the Liberals.

Trudeau denied several times that Wednesday's announcement was any kind of election preview, and he challenged any opposition leaders skeptical of his motives to go and talk to the workers who would benefit from the investment.

"It's not an electoral interest, it's the interest of Canadian workers and the planet," he said.

The project to expand LM Wind Power's Gaspe plant will cost some $160 million. The federal government said in a news release it will provide "up to $25 million" that will help create 200 jobs and "maintain approximately 380 additional jobs for Canadian workers."

Quebec Energy Minister Jonatan Julien, who was also present at the announcement, said the provincial government would provide a loan of $29 million to the project, which he said would bring and maintain much-needed quality jobs to the region.

Trudeau began his day in Perce, where he hosted an economic roundtable discussion and strolled down the town's picturesque boardwalk for a photo with Lebouthillier, exchanging elbow bumps with curious locals and tourists.

During the opening remarks of the roundtable, Trudeau announced support for upgrades to the wharf at the Port of Cap-aux-Meules in the Iles-de-la-Madeleine. He added that Ottawa is withdrawing plans to transfer the port to a lower level of government, which has been a request of the mayor of the island chain.

As part of the announcement, Trudeau said the government would install a barge alongside the wharf to provide additional mooring by next season and would conduct a study to determine what longer-term repairs are needed.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 14, 2021.
Nothing but respect for my friend & colleague @Min_E_Clarke. She has been a tireless advocate for reconciliation & her efforts were noticed & appreciated by First Nations. Shitty that its come to this, but her decision is understandable #megwich #reconciliation

"Nothing but respect for my friend & colleague @Min_E_Clarke. She has been a tireless advocate for reconciliation & her efforts were noticed & appreciated by First Nations. Shitty that its come to this, but her decision is understandable #megwich #reconciliation"

 Tweet by Progressive Conservative MLA Shannon Martin





CTV Winnipeg reporter: "Do you feel like you have the full backing of cabinet and caucus right now?"

Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister: "Yes."

CTV Winnipeg: "Why do you say that?"

Pallister: "Because I do."

 From a media press conference on Wednesday

Quite frankly, we dont think he does.

And considering the lamentable comments Premier Brian Pallister made following the Canada Day toppling of a pair of statues on the grounds of the Manitoba legislature, he really shouldnt.

News broke Wednesday morning that Indigenous and Northern Affairs Minister Eileen Clarke had resigned from cabinet last Friday  less than a week after Mr. Pallister made controversial statements that asserted settlers to Canada "came here to build" the country, not tear it down like the Indigenous protesters who destroyed the statue of Queen Victoria in Winnipeg on July 1.

Quoting government sources, the Winnipeg Free Press first reported that Clarke surprised the premier and his senior staff with her decision, and made it clear internally that Pallisters comments last week had made her job as the governments chief liaison with Indigenous people "completely impossible."

Clarke later confirmed her resignation as minister took place on Friday, though she refused to make any direct comment to media, out of respect for the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs election that took place on Wednesday.

The loss of Clarke to Mr. Pallisters cabinet table is substantial  Ms. Clarke has brought a wealth of experience through her various leadership roles prior to her role in the Pallister government. She has spent years building up a legacy of community support, business acumen and leadership qualities in the town of Gladstone, which she has always called home.

Before she joined the Progressive Conservatives as the MLA for Agassiz in 2016, she was never shy about expressing her displeasure regarding poor government decisions and policies, particularly during her eight-year stint as mayor of Gladstone.

To her credit, with her principled resignation this month, she has shown herself to have a political backbone that so many of her colleagues apparently lack.

In response to news of her resignation, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Interim Grand Chief Leroy Constant thanked and praised the outgoing minister for her support to First Nations.

"While I am disappointed with her resignation, I understand the circumstance, and we commend her for this honourable decision in light of recent events," Leroy said in a press release.

"Ms. Clarke has always fulfilled her duties in a respectful manner and remained a staunch supporter of First Nations at all levels."

What a glowing comment from the Indigenous leadership of this province  to an outgoing Progressive Conservative minister, no less. Clearly she has earned some respect for her conduct while in charge of that portfolio.

Contrast that reputation with the premiers doubling down on his alternative version of colonial history yesterday, and her decision becomes rather obvious. That she has found herself backed into a corner and forced to choose between her duties as minister and any fealty to a premier who seems unwilling or unable to admit to poor judgment, is the fault of the premier.

Ultimately, she chose integrity over toadyism. Considering the political heft of the respect she carries within the party, and among the Tories political adversaries  including Liberal Leader Dougald Lamont, who gave her credit for "doing the right thing"  Mr. Pallister now faces the threat of Ms. Clarke becoming a trendsetter. With Mr. Pallisters popularity among voters polling the lowest of any premier in the country in recent months, that becomes a very real possibility.

People of good character should act when the need arises, and show support for those who make such difficult decisions.

It is therefore unfortunate that most of Ms. Clarkes fellow Tory MLAs, including those here in Brandon, could not bring themselves to publicly express their support for her decision.
The Australian sharemarket slipped deeper into the red today as Victorians prepared for another COVID lockdown.

The S&P/ASX 200 was mostly flat in early trade but ended 0.3 per cent lower at 7335.9 as the spread of the highly contagious Delta strain from Sydney to Melbourne prompted authorities to discuss and then after the close of trading declare a five day state-wide lockdown.

EY partner Duncan Hogg said investors had so far appeared happy to look through Sydneys travails over the past three weeks, but the fact that more than 10 million Australians could be back in lockdown weighed heavily on sentiment.

The S&P/ASX 200 fell 0.3 per cent on Thursday. Credit:Shutterstock

Not even an above-expectation jobs report - which showed unemployment at a decade low 4.9 per cent in June - could help the market gain momentum.

The market didnt react at all to those figures, it even fell a little bit, Mr Hogg said.

Which suggests to me that the investor base is going to be watching the COVID situation a lot more closely.

The major miners and utility firms were the only real source of support on Thursday.

BHP rose 1.1 per cent to $51.53 and within touching distance of its all-time high, while Rio Tinto closed 2.2 per cent ahead at $131.14.

Fortescue Metals gained 2.1 per cent to $25.72 - its highest since early January.

Rising inflation and a dovish tone from the US Fed helped the gold price rise to a four-week high of $US1829 an ounce, dragging local precious metal producers with it.

Newcrest added 1.5 per cent to $27.01, Northern Star was up 21 per cent to $10.85, and Evolution Mining gained 2.7 per cent to $4.95.

The big banks, health firms, energy stocks, retailers and technology firms all fell.

Zip Co lost another 5.6 per cent to $6.91 and Afterpay fell 2.3 per cent to $104.56 as the prospect of heightened competition from Apple continued to hurt the BNPL sector.

Spark Infrastructure added another 6.1 per cent to $2.63 and was trading near four-year highs after knocking back two takeover bids from a North American consortium.
When asked whether someone should disclose their mental illness to an employer, Lucy Brogden regrets her answer is no.

Im regularly contacted by people who are asked should they disclose their mental health issue either in the recruitment process or once they are within an organisation, says Mrs Brogden, who chairs the National Mental Health Commission.

I think Im not alone in being disappointed that generally I would counsel someone to say, dont disclose. I feel it can hold back your career at this stage and that is part of a lack of understanding that we have to overcome.

Lucy Brogden AM, the chair of the National Mental Health Commission. Credit:Renee Nowytarger

Mrs Brogden said she had received anecdotal reports of high-functioning employees who had felt it was safe to disclose their mental illness to an employer or manager before discovering that when they did, everybodys attitude towards them suddenly changed.
For artist Thea Perkins finally making a portrait of her grandfather, Charles, has been a significant moment in her burgeoning career.

Charles is a towering figure in Australian history, a civil rights activist who led the Freedom Ride in 1965 to raise awareness of Indigenous issues. The first Aboriginal man to graduate from university, he went on to advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders throughout his life.

Thea Perkins with her work at N. Smith Gallery in Paddington. Credit:James Brickwood

It took me a long time to take the image on because theres a lot to it, says Perkins, an Arrernte and Kalkadoon woman. Its about my own personal connection to him and my understanding of him but its also about his legacy. And reconciling that with his public figure. I wanted to take this on because of what was happening politically, especially with the Black Lives Matter movement.

She hopes the movement inspires a wider conversation but also conversations with more nuance. While hoping that momentum continues, she is not surprised to see change coming from citizens rather than politicians.
James, definitely no stranger to the courtroom, spent just $820. Presumably, he wasnt interested in joining the fight. Thats a change. A decision handed down on July 13 shows Ian eventually won out. He will now be able to stay put, as long as he pays Madeleine $1.165 million in exchange for her 25 per cent share. He has already shelled out $823,000. Meanwhile, James, usually based on the Mornington Peninsula, appears to have transferred his stake to his dad, gratis. Maybe with families  and court action  sometimes enough is enough. KINGS COURT In any royal court, the number of courtiers who attend clearly signals power and success. Our federal government is no different, shows the latest list of media advisers.

Clearly, the number of press secretaries you have denotes importance. Prime Minister Scott Morrison now has six  which is more than CBD can ever remember any PM having. Josh Frydenberg now has four, which seems overkill given the energetic Treasurers hardest working press officer is actually himself. Credit:John Shakespeare More puzzling is Communications Minister Paul Fletcher who has three media advisers. Why? He barely ever says anything. Foreign Affairs Minister Marise Payne  not a big talker, admittedly  has two media representatives for one of the biggest media beats in Parliament, while in-demand Health Minister Greg Hunt has a team of three to help him push out the pandemic press.

But then theres Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister Ben Morton. Ever ambitious, its no surprise hes got two press secretaries which is double that of the average assistant minister. Heck, its even one more than Defence Minister Peter Dutton. The former home affairs minister used to have three media advisers, more than anyone bar the PM. But now hes down to one  veteran staffer and former Tony Abbott consigliere Nicole Chant. Capable hands, sure. Then again, it doesnt take much manpower to shoot down every request that lands in the mailbox. Its worth noting that there was one blank spot on the media contact list. That of Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce. Court Jester needs no assistance. SIX OF THE BEST And what does the PM get for his six media advisers ? An appearance on the countrys most powerful FM radio breakfast program, The Kyle and Jackie O Show. During his audience with Kyle Sandilands and Jackie O Henderson, Morrison finally kicked into touch the rumour that he soiled himself at Engadine McDonalds, in Sydneys south, after his team, the Cronulla Sharks, lost the rugby league grand final in 1997.

It is the biggest urban myth ever, it is complete and utter rubbish, Morrison said. I found the whole thing incredibly amusing, I always joke about it ... it is absolute and total rubbish. The exchange might have been humiliating, but the endorsement from Sandilands, the top-rating Sydney breakfast host, was undoubtedly priceless. SEE YOU SMITH Tony Smiths announcement he would retire as Speaker of the House of Representatives at the next election has sent Liberal Party factional machines into overdrive. Smith held the Victorian seat of Casey for two decades. Liberal official David Lau, a former staffer to Senator Sarah Henderson, is a contender, as is Aaron Violi, a sales and partnerships manager who worked for Senator James Paterson. In true Liberal tradition, theres a dearth of women in the mix  even if Sky News presenter Peta Credlin has been put forward again. Credlin has repeatedly told CBD shes content at Sky. Presumably, that attitude hasnt shifted with her plum new role as a columnist at The Australian which will see her going head-to-head with her former nemesis Niki Savva who has now signed on to The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald.

FROZEN TRAFFIC The premiere of Disneys Frozen was literally traffic-stopping, with a block of Exhibition Street in front of Her Majestys Theatre shut down for the after-party. Melbournes red carpet royalty was out in force for the event, although AFL supremo Gill McLachlan found himself in the unaccustomed position of having to crouch down for the photocall to get in the same frame as his youngest daughter, Luna. Flying the flag for the ABC were radio breakfast presenter Sammy J, Rosehaven star Celia Pacquola and News Breakfast presenter Georgie Tunny and her musical theatre arm candy, Rob Mills. And in a subtle cultural shift that flags movement in the class/gender complexities that underpin social norms, contestants of RuPauls Drag Race Down Under have eclipsed Real Housewives of Melbourne stars on PR guest lists.

Contestants from RuPauls Drag Race out in force were Melbourne drag queens Karen from Finance, who suffered a wardrobe malfunction on the footpath when her elaborate black headdress fell off, and Art Simone, who turned up in blue hair and, gasp, mens clothes, deciding that 2 hours watching the show in heavy drag make-up while wearing a face mask was too much to bear. Disney suits in attendance were Kylie Watson-Wheeler, senior vice-president and managing director of the Walt Disney Company Australia, and Paula McKinnon, head of stage, Disney Theatrical Productions Australia. But in a move that must have broken their hearts, COVID-19 restrictions forced the closure of the merch shop. And worse for us, it turned the party teetotal. And the musical? Exactly the story of Disney slickness audiences would expect. Loading Child actor Stella Partridge playing Young Anna stole every scene she was in. A star is born.
Australians are about to sit down to the five-yearly self-analysis that is the census. As CEO of Humanists Australia Im one of a group of secular organisations asking Australians to mark No Religion on the census when the time comes.

At the last census in 2016, nearly a third of Australians (29.6 per cent) marked no religion but its likely, for a number of reasons, that this is a significant under-reporting of the true numbers of non-religious people in Australia.

At the last census, nearly a third of Australians (29.6 per cent) marked no religion. Credit:AP

You might think its a no-brainer  if you arent religious, thats what youll mark. Unfortunately, both the way the question is phrased and its positioning on the overall census, lend themselves to unconsciously inaccurate reporting.

OK, so its unlikely that anyone will accidentally write Jedi, Pastafarian or Satanist against the other box  but also please dont do this. As much as we all very much wish for there to be many Jedis walking the streets of our towns (may the Force be with us all in this time of pestilence), answers such as these will be counted as types of religion.
Loading He said the collaborating architects shared a love of substantial materials such as timber, masonry, concrete, stone and steel. The Sydney CBD has become kind of this soulless, dreary place, in my view, and I think Central Barangaroo is an antidote to that. Its a place about people. This is a new city, its a new hood. It will be something much more meaningful, coherent, beautiful. Camilla Block, also a director of Durbach Block Jaggers, said the timeless, archaic buildings would provide a backdrop for a precinct that was bustling 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The idea is that its got an easy vitality, but its continuous. William Smart, who is founder and creative director of Smart Design Studio, expected it would feel casual, a place where Sydneysiders could take your shoes off a bit more. Durbach Block Jaggers directors Camilla Block, Neil Durbach and David Jaggers are making their mark on the final stage of Barangaroo. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer It should feel quite different from Barangaroo South, it should feel much more connected to Millers Point and The Rocks. I think if we were building more towers down there wed only be getting more grief. While the masterplan principles guiding the design of the precinct have been finalised, the maximum building heights for the Central Barangaroo precinct have not yet made public.

The shape of development was likely affected by the confidential settlement the NSW government reached with Crown and Lendlease in 2019, following a long legal battle over views from their buildings at Barangaroo South. There is scope for taller towers above the Metro station, however, the precinct is broadly described as mid-rise. Durbach Bloch Jaggers and John Wardle Architects collaborated on Phoenix Central Park in Chippendale, which is used as an art gallery and performing arts space. It won the NSW Architecture Medallion in 2020. Credit:Martin Mischkulnig Architect Philip Thalis, a City of Sydney councillor, said the view towards Observatory Hill was pretty fundamental and basically anything [built] above six to eight storeys would be disastrous to that. Why the secrecy? Its our land.

Updated plans, which will detail potential uses and the parameters for development, are expected to be submitted to the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment before the end of the year. They will go on exhibition for public feedback. The precinct will be completed after the Metro station opens in 2024. William Smart wants to design a new warehouse-style office building using timber, concrete and brick. Credit:James Brickwood David Jaggers, also a director of Durbach Block Jaggers, said the timing of the project made it an exciting opportunity to reinvent part of the city for a post-COVID world. John Wardle, who collaborated with Durbach Bloch Jaggers on the Phoenix Central Park building, said the central staircase sweeping from the foreshore to Millers Point and Observatory Hill would become its own civic space.

Theres a massive scale shift from the waters edge up past Hickson Road to where it connects with the topography of Sydney thats set above it, so those steps are incredibly important, he said. Loading Mr Wardles firm is designing a corner block, fronting the foreshore park, which he describes as the sites navigational marker. It will include an underground auditorium, dubbed the town hall, for shows and public events. Nearby, Mr Smarts firm is designing a warehouse-style office block, featuring a 100-metre long atrium, on Hickson Road. He said timber, concrete and brick would add substance, strength and rawness. Id like to have a building thats more focused on masonry than chasing views, and talks more to the heritage of the site.

Loading Mr Jaggers said the architects had a vested interest in the future of Barangaroo and wanted to make a positive contribution. The fact we have to live in Sydney as well, we cant just fly back off to somewhere else, makes the pressure to do that [job] well even greater. Block agreed: We love Sydney. This is our home. This is what were invested in. There is an era for locals to have a voice and were very happy that its now, and its us.
But as fast as theyre moving, theyre just keeping pace with this virus, theyre not getting in front of it. And unless they get in front of it, we wont drive these numbers down. In fact, they will ultimately get away from us. That is why its with a heavy heart but with an absolute necessity and a determination to beat this Delta spike, just as we did a few weeks ago, that the Chief Health Officer and the public health team have recommended to me and my cabinet colleagues that we lock Victoria down. The lockdown will apply to the entire state, although Mr Andrews expressed empathy with regional areas where no cases have been recorded in this outbreak. Nothing about this virus is fair. Nothing about the fact that this virus has travelled from Sydney is fair. Thats just the reality we face.

I apologise to all Victorians that this is necessary. But part of my job is not just making popular and easy decisions, its doing what must be done and at this stage a state-wide lockdown is whats put to me as essential by the public health experts. Victoria also recorded another two new cases in addition to the two reported earlier on Thursday. COVID-19 commander Jeroen Weimar said there were now 18 active cases in the community associated with the latest outbreak. Mr Weimar said one of the new cases was also an attendee at the MCC members reserve at the MCG for the Carlton versus Geelong match on Saturday afternoon. There are now three cases linked to the AFL match on July 10.

Deputy Chief Health Officer Daniel OBrien has highlighted the excitement of football fans as a particular dynamic of concern at sports venues and authorities were examining CCTV footage to figure out where the people crossed paths. I think we know that you can aerosolise the virus when youre cheering, he said. The other late afternoon case was a personal contact for a known positive case from the Ariele Apartment complex in Maribyrnong. What are the new rules? Under the fifth lockdown rules, people will be allowed to leave home to get food or essential supplies, for two hours of exercise and no more than five kilometres from home, for care or caregiving, work or education (that cannot be done from home) or to get vaccinated.

Essentially there are those five reasons to leave for reasons from last year plus going and getting your jab and being vaccinated as part of the Commonwealth governments program, Mr Andrews said. [Theres] no need to panic buying [or] any of that, weve proven that theres no need to do that,  you can go and exercise, all the usual things that have applied over time. They have worked before, they will work again, theyve worked against different [strains] of this virus most recently, its worked against Delta, and they will work this time. If we all invest in this. If we all accept this its not where we want it to be and its not easy, but its essential. Otherwise, well be five weeks or five months, and Im just not prepared to wait for the sake of convenience. The two new cases announced earlier in the day  an adult and a child who sat separately at the MCG during Saturdays match between Carlton and Geelong  were on top of the 10 new cases officially recorded on Thursday but reported throughout the day on Wednesday.

Mr Weimar said those cases were not known to each other or the other two previously confirmed cases at the MCG. Mr Weimar said they were sitting in very different parts of the ground and that the MCG was now the focus of the states contact tracers. Both these cases put us in a serious situation. We need to establish whether there are any other people who were at the MCG  thats a critical bit of information we need to get to today. If you are getting those tier-1, tier-2 text messages and you havent got tested, we need you to come and do that now. Whatever youre doing at the moment, stop doing it. Please come and get tested so we can get that information and get you safe and secure.

Mr Weimar also noted that one of the new MCG cases was linked to two gyms in Melbournes west that were added to the official list of exposure sites on Wednesday morning. Despite concerns about further transmission at the MCG, Mr Weimar lauded the speed of the states health team. [In] the last 72 hours weve burned through seven rings [of contract tracing] exceptionally quickly. This is probably the fastest response weve ever seen to an outbreak moving more quickly than weve ever seen here in Victoria, or I suspect anywhere else in Australia. Reaction to the lockdown

Victorian Opposition Leader Michael OBrien speaking ahead of the announcement on Thursday said he believed the government was moving too early on new restrictions. We cant keep living like this, Mr OBrien said. A full lockdown would be a massive kick in the guts for a state thats done it so tough already, he said. Melbournes lord mayor Sally Capp said the five-day statewide lockdown was understandable but would hurt the city.

Every Melburnian should listen to the health experts and follow the rules for this reported snap lockdown, Cr Capp said. Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews announcing the state will enter a fifth lockdown on Thursday. Credit:Getty However, we need to acknowledge that lockdowns have a devastating impact on city businesses and hurt confidence. Mr Andrews invoked his own country heritage as he defended putting the entire state in lockdown as concerns about the outbreak has centred on Melbourne and its immediate surrounds. Nothing about this virus is fair. Nothing about the fact that this virus has travelled from Sydney is fair. Thats just the reality we face.

I apologise to all Victorians that this is necessary. But part of my job is not just making popular and easy decisions, its doing what must be done and at this stage a statewide lockdown is whats put to me as essential by the public health experts. I just again impress upon all of those viewers and listeners from parts of our state that are a long way from Melbourne - I know that part of the world, I grew up in a community very much like that, I know how inconvenient this is. Mr Andrews just took what sounded like a swipe at the NSW approach to lockdown by declaring retail closed and there would be no browsing. Retail is shut, closed, click and collect, contactless. If youre on the list, go to work, if not, you cant. We are going to can everything we can to try to extinguish this thing, to put it out in five days, he said.

Hume outbreak Meanwhile, it has emerged that a man in his 30s who contracted the virus at a Coles in Craigieburn was actually an acquaintance of a positive case who had recently returned from Sydney. Officials revealed on Wednesday that the man tested positive after visiting the supermarket in Melbournes north at the same time as a man who lives in the City of Hume who was infectious. Loading

Were confident with that particular exposure site that ... theyve spent a bit of time together to achieve that transmission, Mr Weimar said. Victorias latest coronavirus outbreaks, which now take in a total of 18 cases including at least two children, are both offshoots of Sydneys Delta clusters: three Sydney removalists who breached their permit conditions and a family who returned from Sydney and were supposed to be isolating at home. A primary school in the border town of Wodonga also shut its doors on Monday and sent all children and staff home after two students attended a tier-one exposure site on the weekend. The two students at St Monicas have not tested positive to the virus, however, the school has been closed as a precaution. Principal Jacqui Partington wrote to the school community earlier today, notifying them of an immediate shutdown and directing all students and anyone who has been on-site to isolate immediately until further notice.

We will remain shut down until we know for certain that it is safe to return to site, Ms Partington wrote. St Patricks Primary in Murrumbeena has been closed after a positive case attended the school. Credit:Joe Armao St Monicas is the fourth Victorian school to close in the past 24 hours, following the closure of St Patricks Primary in Murrumbeena, Bacchus Marsh Grammar and Barwon Heads Primary. Parents and carers at St Patricks Primary in Murrumbeena were asked to collect their children on Thursday morning after a student, the child who attended the MCG on Saturday tested positive for the virus. All grade 4 students at the Catholic school in Melbournes south-east were ordered to go directly to a testing station before heading home and isolating until further notice. Students in other year levels have been encouraged to get tested.

Mr Weimar said 315 members of staff at Bacchus Marsh Grammar were in isolation as primary close contacts, and 3000 students at the school were in isolation as secondary close contacts. He said 49 staff and 527 students at Barwon Heads Primary had been identified as either primary or secondary close contacts. Weve got local testing set up ... the school community has been fantastic, Mr Weimar said. Many schools also told their students to take their things home as the school bell rang on Thursday afternoon in anticipation of a return to remote learning. Tina King, the acting president of the Australian Principals Federation, said earlier in the day that schools were prepared for the announcement.

Ive spoken to a few secondary principals, they are telling their kids, take your stuff home tonight just in case, she said. Ms King said schools had plenty of practice in making a swift transition to remote learning and could potentially do so on Friday. Weve learnt how quickly we can do that transition, she said. The list of high-risk exposure sites now includes over 80 exposure sites, including public transport routes, a CBD pub, the MCG, Highpoint Shopping Centre and DFO University Hill in Bundoora. The mens toilet at Oakleigh shopping centre was added as a tier-1 location on Thursday afternoon. Western Australia on Wednesday enforced new border restrictions on visitors from Victoria, who must isolate for 14 days upon entering the state, while South Australia also tightened restrictions for Victorians, requiring them to undertake a COVID-19 test within 24 hours of arriving and not enter high-risk settings such as aged care for 14 days after arriving.

Four of the cases announced on Wednesday were residents of the Ariele Apartments complex at Maribyrnong in Melbournes north-west. The parents of one of those residents, a man in his 60s, also tested positive, making cases five and six. Cars queuing at a COVID-19 testing site in Craigieburn on Thursday. Credit:Justin McManus The seventh reported case was the man in his 30s who visited the Coles in Craigieburn Central. Case eight was a teacher from Bacchus Marsh Grammar who watched the Carlton versus Geelong AFL match at the MCG on Saturday with a friend who lives in the Ariele Apartments. Loading

Two of his family members have also tested positive, becoming cases nine and 10. There were 27,061 COVID-19 test results processed in the 24 hours to midnight on Wednesday, and more than 15,161 people received their vaccine doses. New exposure sites More than 20 exposure sites were added to Victorias list of locations visited by people with COVID-19 on Thursday evening, taking the total number of venues to more than 100. The new additions included three outlets at the Chadstone shopping centre in Melbournes south-east. The three stores  Target, Kmart and ZiNG Pop Culture  were all listed at tier-2 sites, meaning anyone who was there between 5.25pm and 6pm on Monday will need to isolate until they test negative for COVID-19.

Meanwhile, Banyule Councils Greensborough office and WaterMarc aquatic and leisure facility have been closed and hundreds of workers sent home, after a staff member who had worked in the Greensborough office on Monday returned a positive COVID-19 test result on Thursday. A Banyule Council spokesman said when the council became aware of the case, it took steps to immediately close its offices. The council recommended anyone showing symptoms get tested and monitor exposure sites. Disaster payments for affected Victorians The federal government and Victoria reached an agreement late on Thursday night on economic support measures to assist some people and businesses affected by the states snap five-day lockdown. Loading

Commonwealth funding will be available to workers in a number of areas declared as being hotspots by the Chief Medical Officer, Professor Paul Kelly. The areas deemed hotspots late on Thursday by Professor Kelly are Greater Melbourne, Moorabool Shire, City of Greater Geelong, Borough of Queenscliff and Surf Coast Shire. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said disaster payments of $375 would be available to anyone in those areas who lose between eight and less than 20 hours of work. A payment of $600 would be available to workers who lose more than 20 hours during the period of the lockdown. He said there will be no liquid assets test applied to eligibility for these payments.
And what does PM30 get for his six media advisers? An appearance on the countrys most powerful FM radio breakfast program, The Kyle and Jackie O Show. During his audience with Kyle Sandilands and Jackie O Henderson, Morrison finally kicked into touch the rumour that he soiled himself at Engadine McDonalds, in Sydneys south, after his team the Cronulla Sharks lost the rugby league grand final in 1997. It is the biggest urban myth ever, it is complete and utter rubbish, Morrison said. I found the whole thing incredibly amusing, I always joke about it ... it is absolute and total rubbish. The exchange might have been humiliating, but the endorsement from Sandilands, the top rating Sydney breakfast host, was undoubtedly priceless. A HOME, DIVIDED

Hows this for a family spat? One arm of Victorias well-heeled Baillieu family has just wrapped up a six-year legal squabble over the family home of the late gallerist and artist Marianne Baillieu. Born in Stockholm and educated in New Zealand, Baillieu became a celebrated contemporary artist who exhibited alongside luminaries including Jenny Holzer and Gareth Sansom. She passed away at 72 in 2012 and in her 1988 will, left her home in Melbournes waterfront Williamstown to her husband and children. Lawyer husband Ian - brother of one-time Victorian premier Ted Baillieu - was handed a 50 per cent stake, while their lawyer son James Baillieu and UK-based daughter Madeleine were each given a 25 per cent stake. Critically, Marianne stipulated that the bay-facing home should be sold within eighteen months of death. But that never happened. In 2015, Ian launched court action to gain full possession of his wifes home. And considering it was the address he had shared with Marianne for decades, who could blame him?

Those named as defendants in this legal broadside were his own son and daughter. But a breakdown of the legal costs spent by each of the parties outlined in court documents might indicate who was more invested in the fight. Ian spent $35,500 fighting to stay at Williamstown, while daughter Madeleine - who is married to a top UK-born Magic Circle firm lawyer Harry Upcott - spent $17,000 on legal fees. Son James - who is definitely no stranger to the courtroom - spent just $820. Presumably, he wasnt interested in joining the fight. Thats a change. A decision handed down on July 13 shows that Ian eventually won out. He will now be able to stay put, so long as he pays Madeleine $1.165 million in exchange for her 25 per cent share. He has already shelled out $823,000 and owes $116,500 next month.

Meanwhile, James - usually based on the Mornington Peninsula - appears to have transferred his stake to his dad, gratis. Maybe with families - and court action - sometimes enough is enough. BLOKES ONLY Tony Smiths announcement that he would retire as an MP and the Morrison governments long-serving speaker at the next election has sent the Liberal Partys factional machines into overdrive. Smith held the seat for two decades, which is plenty of time for a long list of hopefuls to set their sights on it. Already, Liberal official David Lau, who is a former staffer to Senator Sarah Henderson, is regarded as a contender, as is Aaron Violi, a sales and partnerships manager who worked for Senator James Paterson. In true Liberal tradition, theres a dearth of women in the mix - even if Sky News presenter and perennial preselection possibility Peta Credlin has been put forward as a starter by some wings. Its worth noting that Credlin has repeatedly told CBD that shes content at Sky. Presumably, that attitude hasnt shifted with her plum new role as a political columnist at The Australian, which will see her going head-to-head with her former nemesis Niki Savva who has now signed on to The Age and the Herald.
Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese has slammed a Labor motion backed by former NSW premier Bob Carr calling for a boycott of Israel over its treatment of Palestinians, saying it is counterproductive and is not supported by anyone in his party room.

Mr Albanese also pledged an ongoing opposition to the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement in his strongest comments since fractures emerged within Labor in recent months over Palestine and Israel.

Anthony Albanese has slammed a proposal for a boycott of Israel backed by former NSW premier Bob Carr. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen/Louie Douvis

I regard the BDS campaign as one that is based upon a racial targeting of a group, in this case Israel, and it is something that I have not supported, the Labor leader said in a Tuesday evening Zoom call hosted by the Executive Council of Australian Jewry.

It seems to me that the more contact that people have with each other, the better. We need more contact, not less contact.
Anthony Albanese has shown he is no Jeremy Corbyn.

For those who have been paying attention, he has never showed any signs of behaving like the former leader of the British Labour Party.

Labor leader Anthony Albanese has moved to stamp out anti-Semitic views in the Labor Party. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Albanese has a long history of standing up against the more extreme elements of his partys Left, including campaigning against the former Marrickville councils boycott of Israel over a decade ago.

But in a Zoom call hosted by the Executive Council of Australian Jewry on Tuesday night, Albanese, himself a prominent member of the Left, sent a message to the wider Labor movement - that anti-semitism is a scourge he will not stand for and it is separate to the complicated foreign policy issues thrown up by the Israeli Palestinian debate.
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk will fly to Tokyo this weekend to make the final pitch for Brisbanes 2032 Olympics bid but officials are taking nothing for granted when it comes to winning.

Ms Palaszczuk, who has stared down calls for her to not travel to Tokyo and take up a spot in hotel quarantine when she returned, said she would not leave the state if it was in a similar situation to NSW, which has been battling an ongoing COVID outbreak.

The Premier will fly out on Sunday and return to Queensland after about a week, when she will complete 14 days in hotel quarantine.

I am essentially flying in, doing the requirements of quarantine in Tokyo, she said.
Gillard said she was hoping to return home herself for Christmas and to be able to do home quarantine. She said she was fully vaccinated. Former Foreign Minister Alexander Downer and former Prime Minister Julia Gillard in London. Credit:Latika Bourke I suspect Im going to disappoint you with this answer because I dont drop into Australian domestic politics any longer, she said. I, when I came here, knew that I was running a risk, which I voluntarily assumed; I like you am aware of Australians in very hard circumstances trying to get home, she said. Gillard said she did not have a pressing humanitarian need to return home and had delayed her travel back so as not to displace a person in more need from being able to secure a flight and scarce quarantine spot.

Plan A: I was going to go home in August or September and then come back here but I decided when they announced the limitations on hotel quarantine places, I wouldnt displace someone who needed that place more than me. But I would obviously still very much like to get home for Christmas. My plan B - Im on plan B now - [is that] Id like to go back in November when I hope that vaccination rates are up in a way which means that the government can make some other arrangements. So Im very sorry to hear that youre here, she said, in her only reference to Eleanors personal circumstances. She said her home state of South Australia had volunteered to run home quarantine trials for the fully vaccinated and she was keeping her fingers crossed that the trial goes well so that she could take advantage of any changes to the requirement to quarantine in a hotel for 14 days at a cost of $3000. This was the first time Gillard commented publicly on the Australian pandemic travel blockade.

Loading Alexander Downer, who has been a critic of whats been dubbed the Fortress Australia policy of banning citizens from leaving and restricting the number who can enter, said every Australian had a human right to be able to return to their own country. The Australian government should make sure that youre able to do so [and] not lock you out because it suits a broader agenda, which is an absurd agenda - to eliminate COVID from Australia altogether, thats not a sustainable policy, he said. Downers comments were met with applause. He said he was shocked that the Australian governments were not already allowing home quarantine for Australians who were fully vaccinated.
One of the UKs most ambitious robotics projects has proven the concept for robotic teams repairing offshore wind farms. The project paves the way for human-robot teams at wind farms within 10 years and wind farms designed for robotic maintenance by 2050  a scenario that will be vital to the UK achieving its Net Zero targets.

The 4 million MIMRee project, which was funded by Innovate UK, has concluded this month and reported on its drive to develop an autonomous robotic team for inspecting and repairing offshore wind farms. Two years since starting the project, the MIMRee team, which includes academics from the University of Bristols Flight Laboratory in the Department of Aerospace Engineering, say they have successfully proven and demonstrated the core technologies at the heart of the concept.

Under the MIMRee scenario, a Thales autonomous mothership detects defects in wind farm blades using an onboard inspection system that can scan the structure of wind farms blades while they are still turning, sometimes at speeds of 200mph at their tips. The mothership then signals the blades to stop and launches a specially adapted drone that can transport a six-legged blade crawler onto them to effect repair.

The Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult, which has led the project, believes that within 10 years this scenario will be feasible at offshore wind farms with robots working semi-autonomously (that is, under the remote supervision of humans and only requiring technicians for intervention offshore when essential).

By 2050, such a system could be capable of planning its own missions and conducting them autonomously at wind farms of the future that are built for repair by resident robots. ORE Catapult estimates that this move will shift workers from hazardous environments at sea to onshore control room roles and reduce the cost of energy by 10% (including a 27% reduction in operating expenses).

This is not just a way for the sector to reduce costs, it is essential if the offshore wind industry is to achieve the scale of expansion needed for Net Zero, said Ben George, who leads ORE Catapults Operations and Maintenance Centre of Excellence (OMCE).

Today, conditions at sea make human-only missions subject to safety risks, delays, cancellations and extensive turbine downtime. This will not be a feasible way of running the super-sized offshore power stations of tomorrow that lie in deep waters hundreds of miles from shore.

The inspiration for the project was drawn from space exploration, the epitome of an extreme environment. Professor Sara Bernardini, who previously worked on mission planning for space mission operations, including the NASAs Mars Exploration Rovers programme, developed the AI system that controls how the MIMRee robots work together and communicate with humans.

Space provides a good example of humans working with robots. The current Mars exploration programme uses a team of robots, from helicopters to rovers, that can withstand extreme conditions. Astronauts are deployed selectively, where human ingenuity is most needed and risk to life is lowest. Likewise, future offshore work will be about humans being in the control room, developing and managing robotics and learning the skills required to work in teams with them, comments Professor Bernardini.

Drone technologies were adapted to take-off and land on the autonomous vessel when it is moving at high speed while it is carrying the blade crawler. This phase of the work was led by the University of Bristol, University of Manchester and Perceptual Robotics.

Professor of Aerial Robotics at the University of Bristol, Tom Richardson, said: The record breaking performance of renewables in the UK energy sector is a brilliant national success. MIMRee brought together industry and academia to tackling the key robotic challenges underlying the future support of this technology.

Another crucial technological breakthrough was developing a robots ability to repair blades. The BladeBUG robot was lent to the project by BladeBUG Ltd, a London start-up that has previously achieved the worlds first robotic blade walk at a working offshore wind turbine.

Wootzano Ltd fitted their patented electronic skin, used in harsh environments such as nuclear decommissioning and applied it to the feet of the crawler robot. The Wootzkin allows robots to navigate around slippery wind turbine blades monitoring for slips and avoiding falls whilst carrying out repairs.

The Royal College of Arts Robotic Laboratory developed the repair module that is capable of cleaning and recoating damaged blades.

Ben George concludes: This project has proven that such a system is possible and can handle the extreme environments at sea. We have tested each of its components in real-world settings, including at our offshore demonstration turbine off the coast of Scotland. Weve also developed a hardware-in-the-loop simulation system that allows individual robots to connect to a simulated environment so we can fine-tune their team behaviour before they go into field. It is highly significant that these technologies are being developed and demonstrated first in the UK  this puts us in pole position for a fast-growing global export market.

Dr Paul Gosling, Chief Technical Officer for Thales in the UK, said: Increasingly we are seeing the technologies around robotics, autonomy sensing and AI providing solutions enabling activities involving harsh environments to be undertaken using unmanned systems. The MIMRee work is a perfect example of a UK team of experts using this evolving technology to benefit society and the environment in the future. I am delighted Thales was able to contribute its expertise in the form of the autonomous mothership and camera sensing technology to make this activity a success.
LOWER BUCKS >> Governor Tom Wolf on Friday visited Bristol and Andalusia in Bucks County to tour communities affected by severe weather and flash flooding. The governor was joined by local officials and legislators to visit damaged homes and speak to residents.
Authum Investment and Infrastructure has emerged as the top bidder to take over Anil Ambani-promoted Reliance Commercial Finance (RCF), a company of debt-ridden Anil Ambani-promoted Reliance Group, with about Rs 1,600 crore offer.

This is the second Reliance Group company for which Authum has emerged as a winner. Last month, a consortium of lender led by Bank of Baroda had cleared a proposal of Authum to acquire Reliance Home Finance (RHF) as part of the resolution process.

Authum is a domestic NBFC with around 15 years of presence and over Rs 2,400 crore networth as on June 2021.

According to sources, Authum's resolution plan has been selected as the successful one, after several rounds of bidding and negotiation by the lenders and the lead bank Bank of Baroda with several bidders.

The voting for the successful bidder and the resolution plan for RCF started on June 7 and concluded on July 15, 2021.

Authum's plan with the highest Net Present Value of Rs 1,585 crore has received over 80 per cent of the voting and the plan had crossed the fair value as assessed by 2 independent valuers, sources said.

Lenders' recovery is high as Rs 1,240 crore of cash has already been distributed and the company has additional cash and cash equivalent of over Rs 250 crore as on June 30, 2021, which will be distributed along with plan proceeds.

RCF's resolution will result in overall debt reduction of Reliance Capital by over Rs 9,000 crore in a significant positive to the overall debt reduction plans of the company.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
SoftBank-backed unicorn Electric on Thursday opened reservations for its much-anticipated electric scooter. Consumers can reserve their Scooter on olaelectric.com by paying a refundable deposit of Rs 499. Those who reserve early will get priority delivery.

The firm said the scooter delivers an experience with class-leading speed, unprecedented range, the biggest boot space as well as advanced technology that makes it the best scooter, customers can buy. Ola said it will be priced aggressively to make it widely accessible. The company will reveal the features and price in the coming days.

Indias EV revolution begins today as we open reservations for our electric scooter, the first in our range of upcoming EVs, said Bhavish Aggarwal, chairman and Group CEO, Ola. With its incredible performance, technology and design along with aggressive pricing, it will help accelerate the transition to sustainable mobility. India has the opportunity and potential to become the world leader in EVs and at Ola, we are proud to lead this charge.

Ola Electric and Bank of Baroda this week signed the biggest long-term debt financing agreement in the Indian electric vehicle (EV) space. The 10-year debt of $100 million is towards funding and financial closure of phase 1 of the Ola Futurefactory, Olas global manufacturing hub for its electric two-wheelers. Ola had announced in December 2020 that it will be investing Rs 2,400 crore for setting up phase 1 of the factory.

The Ola Futurefactory is coming up on a 500-acre site in Tamil Nadu. At full capacity of 10 million vehicles annually, it will be the worlds largest two-wheeler factory.
OneCode, a platform to digitise the sales ecosystem, raised $5 million in led by Indias Surge and Nexus Venture Partners, with participation from WaterBridge Ventures.

The of OneCode is also supported by angel investors Aakrit Vaish (Haptik), Amrish Rau (Pine Labs), Anand Chandrasekaran, Arjun Vaidya, Ashish Dave (Mirae Asset), Cloud Capital, Gaurav Munjal (Unacademy), Harshil Mathur (Razorpay), Jitendra Gupta (Jupiter Money), Kunal Shah, Lalit Keshre (Groww), Miten Sampat, Pravin Jadhav (Raise Financial Services), Rahul Mathur (Bimape), Sandeep Srinivas (Redcarpet), Sujeeth Kumar (Udaan), Sweta Rau, and Vivek Ananda (Bounce).

Founded by Manish Shara and Yash Desai, OneCode connects a network of trusted and accessible sales agents to a pool of potential customers who may not be as tech-savvy. The startups mission is to digitise 50 million sales agents across India, and bridge the gap between brands and potential buyers who may need in-person interactions and physical touch points before committing to a purchase.

"OneCode helps to provide brands with an outsourced sales army, which empowers people in tier-2 and tier-3 cities to become sales agents with a steady source of income. Even during these tough times, it's heartening to see how we can still provide our sales agents with livelihood from the comfort of their own homes," shares Manish Shara, co-founder of OneCode.

The size of Indias population and demographic distribution has often meant that up to 95 per cent of businesses in the country rely on an agent network to raise awareness of a product, and get it in the hands of consumers. Additionally, many buyers often look for recommendations from someone close or familiar to them before making their purchase decision.

The platform works with a variety of financial institutions, such as banks, as well as discount brokers and credit card companies, like ICICI Bank, Axis Bank and RedCarpet. By using technology to mobilise this agent network, these are able to increase their distribution in tier-2 and 3-cities, said the company's statement.

Pratik Poddar, principal, Nexus Venture Partners, said, "We believe that India is a unique market where you can create a lot of value by empowering distribution partners. Manish and Yash are solving a large problem for the 50 million agents and financial services institutions and we are very excited to back the OneCode team."

To ensure sales agents are best equipped with the relevant skills and product knowledge to work independently across the country, OneCode also provides agents with comprehensive on-the-job training. Through interactive videos, sales agents can better understand how to sell, whom to sell to, and ways in which they can maximise their earnings.

OneCode is part of Surges fifth cohort of 23 that have developed new digital solutions to help and individuals live, work and learn better in a rapidly evolving Southeast Asian landscape.
surpassed its revenue guidance for the first quarter (Q1), which it hailed as its best ever, as it reported a 35.7 per cent year-on-year (YoY) increase in consolidated net profit.

This performance was aided by acceleration in demand thanks to the cloud and digital transformation, and supported by the companys new business strategy. Net profit grew to Rs 3,243 crore, and was up 9.1 per cent sequentially. Revenue grew 22.3 per cent YoY to Rs 18,525 crore and was up 12.4 per cent sequentially.

In US dollar terms, the company reported revenue of $2.4 billion, a growth of 12 per cent sequentially in constant currency terms. This is much ahead of the Streets expectation of 10 per cent sequential growth. The company said that of this 12 per cent growth, 4.9 per cent was organic and the rest from Capco. However, the companys margins declined by more than 200 basis points (bps) to 18.8 per cent.

Lauding the companys performance, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Thierry Delaporte said: Despite the severe onslaught of the pandemic, we delivered our best-ever quarter, with secular growth across all SMUs, sectors and GBLs. Our sequential revenue growth of 12.2 per cent was well ahead of the top end of our guidance range, both organically and with Capco.

The companys revenue guidance for Q2 financial year 2021-22 (FY22) ranges between $2.54 billion and $2.58 billion, representing a growth of 5-7 per cent.

Speaking on the Q2 guidance, Delaporte said, If you look at the guidance for the second quarter and what we have done in Q1, we see the company delivering double-digit growth for the fiscal. He added that growth was broad-based with all verticals and geographies reporting double-digit growth.

Aided by the acquisition of Capco, surpassed larger peers like TCS and Infosys on growth and profitability on a sequential basis.

While clocked in 12 per cent sequential revenue growth in constant currency, Infosys reported 4.8 per cent growth, and TCS 2.7 per cent.

Analysts cheer

Analysts were positive on the Wipro stock after the results, given the guidance it provided for the second quarter.

A note issued by ICICI Direct Research said: Wipro reported healthy set of Q1 numbers. We believe the company has reported robust organic revenue growth of 6 per cent and has given strong guidance of 5-7 per cent QoQ in Q2FY22E. This coupled with healthy deal wins prompt us to be positive on the stock. We would be revisiting our estimates and target price post the conference call.

Sanjeev Hota, head of research at Sharekhan by BNP Paribas, said the IT Ebit (earnings before interest and taxes) missed estimates.

Company provided strong revenue growth guidance... for Q2, in line with our expectations. The company closed 8 large deals with a TCV of over $715 million, down 49% [sequentially]. Strong demand environment, return of multi-quarter highest organic growth, improving deal pipeline, record-high hiring, client additions and healthy deal wins are expected to drive revenue growth in coming years. We have Buy rating on Wipro. As with its peers, Wipro saw attrition rise in the quarter to 15.5 per cent.
New Delhi based ZFW on Thursday announced its foray into the financial capital of the country where it plans to support over 15 brands with 50 dark kitchens and fulfilment centres.

As part of its first cohort in Mumbai, ZFW will support the growth of over 15 brands such as Keventers, Vadilal, among others, as part of its immediate launch plans in Mumbai, the company said in a statement.

ZFW is a hyper-local expansion platform for food and beverage (F&B) and direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands.

This expansion will help the platform scale up to the 100-store mark by August.

ZFW, which already partners with leading brands, has established a strong presence in Delhi-NCR with over 35 fulfilment centres.

is a very strategic move for us, as it's the third-largest market in India for food delivery and hyper-local e-commerce after Delhi and Bengaluru. Most brands on their expansion trajectory prefer to cover the major metros as their first milestones before scaling to tier-II and III as these are easy-to-access markets, ZFW founder Madhav Kasturia said.

As brands scale D2C capabilities and enter newer markets, supply chain and fulfilment costs often skyrocket. This is where ZFW steps in and assists with the rapid expansion through its dark kitchens and fulfilment centres, without operational hassles and upfront costs.

A brand can launch a new location in five days and service orders in less than 25 minutes.

Post Mumbai, ZFW is planning to launch operations in the southern region, like Bengaluru, and has started partnering with well-known brands for that market, the company added.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, 71 districts, 824 blocks, 50,309 gram panchayats and 1,00,275 villages have tap connections in each house after almost two years of launching 'Har Ghar Jal' mission, said Director, Bharat Lal.

At the launch of this ambitious programme on August 15, 2019, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, out of 18.94 crore rural households in the country, only 3.23 crore (17 per cent) had tap water connections. Today tap has reached to 7.72 crore (40.77 per cent) households, read an official statement.

States including Goa, Telangana, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Puducherry have achieved 100 per cent tap in rural areas.

"To achieve this mammoth goal of providing tap to every rural household in a short period of five years, Rs 3.60 lakh crore have been allocated by the government. In 2020-21 an amount of Rs 11,000 crore was allocated for the States/ UTs. For 2021-22, that is, the current financial year a four-fold increase in fund allocation has been approved by the Union Minister Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat so that there is no dearth of fund requirement to achieve the goal. In just three months, Rs 8,891 crore has been drawn by the States/UTs based on the fund utilization and requirement proposed under their Annual Action Plans (AAPs)," it said.

In 2021-22, Rs 26,940 crore has been allocated to States as 15th Finance Commission tied grant for water and sanitation to Rural Local Bodies/ PRIs. There is assured funding of Rs 1,42,084 crore for the next five years i.e. up to 2025-26. This huge investment in rural areas across the country, will accelerate economic activities and boost the rural economy. It will create new employment opportunities in villages, as per the statement.

Under Jal Jeevan Mission, water-scarce areas, quality-affected villages, Aspirational districts, SC/ ST majority villages and Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojna (SAGY) villages are prioritized for providing tap water supply. During the last 23 months, tap water supply has increased four-fold from 7 per cent to 33 per cent in 117 Aspirational districts. Similarly, more than 97 lakh households have been provided with tap water supply in 61 districts affected by Japanese Encephalitis- Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (JE-IES). 696 SAGY villages and 29,063 SC/ST majority villages have become 'Har Ghar Jal.'

The release further stated that in order to ensure safe tap water to children in schools, ashramshalas and anganwadi centres in the country, Prime Minister announced a 100-days campaign, which was launched by Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on October 2 2020. As a result, States/ UTs like Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andaman & Nicobar Islands have made provision of tap water in all schools, ashramshalas and anganwadi centres.

So far, 6,76,789 schools (65.7 per cent) and 6,74,611 (59.8 per cent) anganwadi centre across the country have been provided with potable tap water supply in adequate quantity for drinking and cooking mid-day meals, handwashing and use in toilets. Central Government has asked the States/ UTs to ensure that in few months, provision of safe tap water is made in all remaining schools, ashramshalas and anganwadi centres for better health, improved sanitation and hygiene for children.

Water quality monitoring and surveillance activities are being given top priority, for which anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, members of Self-Help Groups, PRI members, school teachers etc; are being trained so that they can test water samples for contamination by using Field test Kits (FTKs). There are 2,015 laboratories across the country. 195 water laboratories have been NABL accredited with improved infrastructure and trained technicians. State are upgrading water testing laboratories and securing NABL accreditation. These labs are open to public so that they can get their water samples tested at nominal cost.

Working in partnership with States, is making all efforts to ensure tap water supply of adequate quantity and in prescribed quality on a regular and long-term basis to every rural household in India by 2024, read the statement.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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All governments and people alike must take required actions to curtail the spread of COVID-19, said Delhi Chief Minister after the decision of the Uttar Pradesh government allowing 'Kanwar Yatra' while the Uttarakhand government cancelling it.

"COVID-19 is a major pandemic. All the governments and people must take all the required steps to curb the pandemic together," he said.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Uttarakhand government on Tuesday cancelled the Kanwar Yatra this year. Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh government decided to continue with the Yatra.

The Kanwar Yatra, in which Lord Shiva devotees from northern states, travel on foot or by other means to collect water from River Ganga at Haridwar, Uttarakhand, to offer at Shiva temples in their areas, is set to begin from July 25.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Amid the rising tension between the Tamil Nadu and the Karnataka governments over the Mekedatu dam project, an All-party delegation from Tamil Nadu will meet Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat over the matter in New Delhi on Friday.

The delegation will also seek permission to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In an all-party meeting called by the Tamil Nadu government on July 12, three resolutions over the Mekedatu dam project issue were passed.

Earlier on July 12, Karnataka Home Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Monday said that the Centre will have to give clearance to the project as per law and there is no reason Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa-led government will stop the project.

Responding to the comments of Bommai, Tamil Nadu Water Resource Durai Murugan said that the state has the right to take a legal course of action to stop Karnataka from constructing the Mekedatu dam.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
New Delhi [India], July 15 (ANI): Amid the ongoing military standoff with India, the Chinese Army is building permanent concrete structures near the Line of Actual Control, which will allow its troops access the disputed areas with India in a very short time.

Senior government sources told ANI that one such camp is coming up few kilometres inside the Chinese territory opposite the Naku La area in north area, which is barely a few minutes distance from the area where Indian and Chinese troops had clashed last year when the confrontation started and also in January this year.

"The Chinese are building permanent concrete structures which will allow them to deploy troops near the frontline areas. The road infrastructure is also very good which will allow them to reach the border areas with India much more swiftly than before," the sources said.

The building of these warm modern buildings have also been observed near the areas in eastern as well as the Arunachal sector, the sources said.

The buildings are also going to help the Chinese Army address the issue of its soldiers feeling uncomfortable during winters in forward areas, the sources said.

The Chinese troops were highly uncomfortable during their forward deployment with eastern in extreme winters forcing them to rotate 90 per cent of their manpower from there.

The building of permanent structures in the border areas also shows the Chinese intent of staying in forward locations for a long time.

The Chinese have disengaged from the Pangong lake area and sent troops back to the Rutog town in the Tibet area under their occupation. The Chinese have been building infrastructure there too, the sources said.

India and China have been in a standoff situation since last year after the Chinese aggressively moved into Indian areas and had violent face-offs with Indian security forces.

The two sides also clashed in the Galwan valley which led to the deaths of several Chinese and Indian soldiers. Though India has declared that it lost 20 troops in the clash, the Chinese have not yet acknowledged the number of its dead soldiers.

India and China have held several rounds of talks but the outcome has not been much.

The Chinese have also been dragging their feet on resolving the issues at friction points and are reluctant to commit to resolving the longstanding pending issues.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
With India firmly conveying to that the prolongation of the existing situation in eastern Ladakh was visibly impacting the bilateral ties in a "negative manner", Beijing on Thursday said it is ready to seek a "mutually acceptable solution" to the issues that require "urgent treatment" through negotiation.

During their hour-long in-person meeting on the sidelines of an SCO conclave in Dushanbe on Wednesday, External Affairs Minister also told his Chinese counterpart and State Councilor Wang Yi that any unilateral change in the status quo along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) was "not acceptable" to India and that the overall ties can only develop after full restoration of peace and tranquillity in eastern Ladakh.

The meeting in Tajikistan's capital took place amidst a stalemate in the disengagement process between the two militaries in the remaining friction points in eastern Ladakh after they withdrew troops and weapons from the Pangong Lake areas in February following series of military and diplomatic talks to resolve the standoff since May last year.

In a statement posted on its website on Thursday on Wang's talks with Jaishankar, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said, the minister stated that India- relations remained at a low point while the situation at the border has generally been easing after the withdrawal of troops from the Galwan Valley and Pangong Lake.

While reiterating China's stand that it was not responsible for the border situation, Wang said that  is ready to seek a mutually acceptable solution to the issues that require urgent treatment through negotiation and consultation with the Indian side.

While China moved its troops from Galwan Valley and Pangong Tso, the disengagement has not been completed from other friction points like Hot Springs, Gogra and Depsang.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In view of the current COVID-19 situation, Education Minister A Namassivayam decided to postpone the reopening of the colleges and educational institutions that were earlier scheduled to be open on July 16.

The decision was taken after a meeting of Chief Minister N Rangasamy with the Education Secretary and the Director, followed by a meeting with Deputy Governor Tamizhai Soundararajan, said Namassivayam

On July 11, Rangasamy had announced that and colleges would be opened for students from class 9 to class 12 in the first phase from July 16 in Pondicherry.

Meanwhile, parents and other political party leaders demanded that the opening of and colleges in Pondicherry be reconsidered, as the COVID-19 pandemic has not yet fully subsided.

Following this, Education Minister Namassivayam held consultations with Deputy Governor Tamilisai Soundarajan at the Governor's House in regarding the opening of and colleges.

At this consultative meeting, it was decided to temporarily postpone the school and colleges which were scheduled to open on July 16.

The reopening of educational institutions and colleges would be soon announced, said the Education Minister.

On a question regarding the position of the Puducherry government regarding National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate) selection, he said: "The government will take steps to take appropriate action in view of the situation of Puducherry students regarding the NEET examination. NEET examination is a policy decision of the Central Government and therefore Puducherry will decide accordingly. The Central Government has issued an order regarding the NEET examination.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
India on Thursday reported a net addition of 2,095 in active cases to take its count to 432,041. Indias share of global active cases now stands at 3.51 per cent (one in 28). The country is sixth among the most affected countries by active cases. On Wednesday, it added 41,806 cases to take its total caseload to 30,987,880 from 30,946,074  an increase of 0.1%. And, with 581 new fatalities, its Covid-19 reached 411,989, or 1.33 per cent of total confirmed infections.

With 3,497,058 more Covid-19 vaccine doses being administered on Wednesday, Indias total count of vaccine shots so far reached 391,340,491. The count of recovered cases across India, meanwhile, reached 30,143,850  or 97.28 per cent of total caseload  with 39,130 new cured cases being reported on Thursday.

Now the sixth-most-affected country by active cases, third by deaths, second by total cases, and first by recoveries, India has added 278,323 cases in the past 7 days.

India now accounts for 3.51% of all active cases globally (one in every 28 active cases), and 10.11% of all deaths (one in every 10 deaths).

India has so far administered 391,340,491 vaccine doses. That is 1262.88 per cent of its total caseload, and 28.07 per cent of its population.

Among Indian states, the top 5 in terms of number of vaccine shots administered are Uttar Pradesh (43691512), Maharashtra (42619370), Gujarat (32457543), Rajasthan (32206832), and Karnataka (29331677).

Among states with more than 10 million population, the top 5 in number of vaccine shots per one million population are Delhi (544483), Kerala (526616), Gujarat (508162), Uttarakhand (497064), and J&K (436854).

Backwards from here, the last 1 million cases for India have come in 23 days.

The count of active cases across India on Thursday saw a net addition of 2,095, compared to the net addition of 2,832 on Wednesday. States and UTs hat have seen the biggest daily net increase in active cases are Kerala (2535), Maharashtra (2365), Manipur (504), Mizoram (310), and Tripura (240).

With 39,130 new daily recoveries, Indias recovery rate stands at 97.28%, while fatality rate remained unchanged at 1.33%.

The Indian states and UTs with the worst case fatality rates at present are Punjab (2.71%), Uttarakhand (2.15%), and Maharashtra (2.04%). The rate in as many as 15 is higher than the national average.

Indias new daily closed cases stand at 39,711  581 deaths and 39,130 recoveries. The share of deaths in total closed cases stands at 1.46%.

Indias 5-day moving average of daily rate of addition to total cases stands at 0.1%.

Indias doubling time for total cases stands at 513.4 days, and for deaths at 491.2 days.

Overall, five states with the biggest 24-hour jump in total cases are Kerala (15637), Maharashtra (8602), Andhra Pradesh (2591), Tamil Nadu (2458), and Odisha (2074).

Among states with more than 100,000 cases, the five with worst recovery rates at present are Kerala (95.71%) and Maharashtra (96.17%).

India on Wednesday conducted 1,943,488 to take the total count of tests conducted so far in the country to 438,011,958. The test positivity rate recorded was 2.2%.

Five states with the highest test positivity rate (TPR)  percentage of tested people turning out to be positive for Covid-19 infection (by cumulative data for tests and cases  are Goa (17.19%), Dadra & Nagar Haveli-Daman & Diu (14.63%), Maharashtra (13.85%), Sikkim (12.7%), and Kerala (12.55%).

Five states with the highest TPR by daily numbers for tests and cases added  are, Sikkim (18.23%), Manipur (14.54%), Nagaland (11.58%), Kerala (10.03%), and Meghalaya (9.32%).

Among states and UTs with more than 10 million population, five that have carried out the highest number of tests (per million population) are Delhi (1202334), J&K (792757), Kerala (692905), Karnataka (537171), and Uttarakhand (523063).

The five most affected states by total cases are Maharashtra (6181247), Kerala (3103310), Karnataka (2876587), Tamil Nadu (2526401), and Andhra Pradesh (1929579).

Maharashtra, the most affected state overall, has reported 7243 new cases to take its tally to 6181247.

Kerala, the second-most-affected state by total tally, has added 15637 cases to take its tally to 3103310.

Karnataka, the third-most-affected state, has reported 1990 cases to take its tally to 2876587.

Tamil Nadu has added 2458 cases to take its tally to 2526401.

Andhra Pradesh has seen its tally going up by 2591 to 1929579.

Uttar Pradesh has added 83 cases to take its tally to 1707585.

Delhi has added 77 cases to take its tally to 1435281.
The Sirsa police on Thursday arrested five people days after lodging an FIR, which included a sedition charge, over an alleged attack on the deputy speaker's car during a farmers' protest.

The incident had taken place on Sunday and police had booked over 100 people, mostly unidentified, for sedition, obstructing public servants in discharge of their duty, murderous attempt on an elected representative and damaging public property.

Meanwhile, to protest the arrests, a group of farmers sat on a dharna near Baba Bhuman Shah Ji Chowk in Sirsa, demanding that they be released.

Police, however, said the arrests were made after they were identified based on the video footage of the incident.

Five protesters have been arrested. We analysed the video footage of the incident in the past two days. The pictures were magnified and later based on the evidence, the five who were identified have been arrested, Sirsa Superintendent of Police Dr Arpit Jain told PTI over the phone.

He said more people who were present near the site on Sunday have been identified and further action will depend on to what extent their involvement.

Earlier, the state government had taken a serious view of the incident, replacing Sirsa district police chief Bhupender Singh with Dr Arpit Jain while suspending an Inspector-rank official.

Deputy Speaker Ranbir Gangwa had told reporters here on Tuesday that those who pelted his vehicle with stones on Sunday cannot be called farmers.

"They cannot be called farmers. I can say those who attacked looked like addicts...," he had said.

Farmers carrying black flags had assembled outside Chaudhary Devi Lal University in Sirsa on Sunday during the day and raised slogans against the government.

While Gangwa, who is a BJP MLA from Nalwa in Hisar, was coming out of the varsity after attending a function, protesters targeted his car, police had said.

Despite heavy police presence, some managed to surround the vehicle and banged against it with their hands.

Gangwa's vehicle was pelted with stones as police were trying to escort it out of the area. Gangwa had escaped unhurt in the incident, police had said.

Farmers protesting the Centre's farm laws have been opposing public functions of the BJP and the Jannayak Janata Party (JJP) in the state.

Farmers, mainly from Punjab, and western Uttar Pradesh, have been camping at Delhi's borders for over seven months in protest against the Centre's three farm laws.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Over 41,806 fresh cases reported

India reported 41,806 fresh infections on Thursday, taking the cumulative caseload to nearly 3.9 million, according to central health ministry data. The country saw 581 more deaths due to the pandemic, taking the death toll to 411,989. The active caseload is at 432,041, while the total recoveries have surged to 3.01 million. As many as 391 million vaccine shots have been administered since the nationwide inoculation programme kicked off on January 16. Of these, 3.4 million were given on Wednesday. Read more

Keralas rising Covid cases may not be the start of Indias third wave

Health experts say the recent rise in Covid infections in Kerala may not be signalling the start of the third wave in India, a report in IndiaSpend said. Experts pointed to the absence of a steep rise in infections. Cases are increasing at a slow rate in Kerala, despite the relaxation of lockdown restrictions and the rise of the more transmissible Delta variant in the state, they tell us. Mobility is up, people are mixing and with Delta [variant dominating], the numbers should be shooting up, not stabilising, Rajeev Sadanandan, the chief executive of Health Systems Transformation Platform, a New Delhi-based nonprofit, and Keralas former additional chief secretary of health, told IndiaSpend. Read more

65% of those polled in a survey said they know someone who couldnt get a vaccine shot in last 30 days

As many as 65% of Indians polled in a survey by LocalCircles said they knew someone in their social circles who could not get a Covid dose when they went out for vaccination in the last 30 days, a report in ThePrint said. To the question if anyone in their social network  extended family, friends, colleagues, neighbours, etc.  faced a scenario in the last 30 days where vaccines at the centre were out of stock, 20 per cent said it happened with 4 or more individuals in their social network, 26 per cent said it happened with 2-3 individuals in their social network, while 19 per cent said it happened with 1 individual, the report said. Read more

Health ministry blames states for fall in vaccination numbers

The central government has blamed the states for the fall in vaccination numbers from the peak at the end of June when the Centre took over vaccine procurement, a report in The Indian Express said. Newly-appointed Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya blamed mismanagement for the long queues outside vaccination centres, saying the Centre had passed along advance information to states on vaccine availability. If long queues of vaccination beneficiaries are being seen, it is clearly evident what the real issue is and who is responsible for this state of affairs. Read here

Delta sub-lineages unlikely to be more transmissible than main variant: Panel

The Indian Sars-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium, or INSACOG has said the Delta variant's sub-lineages are unlikely to be more transmissible than the Delta strain itself, a report in the Scroll said. The body is a consortium of 10 laboratories that conducts genome sequencing of Covid-19 infections. Read here
India will make the best of its two-year term in the and underscore that it establishes the right to be a permanent member of the 15-nation body, Foreign Secretary has said, as the country prepares to assume Presidency of the Council with focus on maritime security, counter-terrorism and peacekeeping.

Next month, we have one of the most landmark events in our engagement in the UN. We will be president of the in the month of August, Shringla said.

We will make the best of our two-year term in the Security Council. We will leave our mark in the Council and our point is to say that India really, by its contribution, establishes the right to be a permanent member of UN Security Council, he said.

Shringla arrived in New York on Wednesday and will participate in two high-level events in the Security Council to be held under the current French Presidency. He will also meet UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Thursday and address the Council briefing on Libya.

India is Chair of the Libyan Sanctions Committee. Shringla's visit comes as India prepares to assume the Presidency of the powerful 15-nation UN body next month.

Speaking at a welcome event organised for him in the city by Jaipur Foot USA and Gracious Givers Foundation USA, Shringla said India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti has arranged new and very significant initiatives in the areas of maritime security, counter-terrorism and UN peacekeeping during India's upcoming presidency.

These are all subjects that are important to us and very unique initiatives are being organised, during India's presidency of the Council, he said, adding that the presidency will have "very high-level participation" from the country.

We are there to forge consensus, understanding. We are the bridge between countries in maintaining international peace and security. That is no small achievement if you consider the fact that we are not permanent members of the Council, he said.

Speaking about the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country, Shringla said we have come through a very difficult period in the second wave of the COVID19 pandemic.

The second wave, with the Delta variant, has been devastating, he said.

Shringla noted that up till the second wave, India had been helping countries and distributed over 66 million doses of vaccines to nations all over the world and provided hydroxychloroquine and essential pharmaceutical products to deal with COVID-19 to over 150 countries.

As India battled a devastating second wave of COVID19, many countries felt it was time to assist India in return, he said and referred to President Joe Biden's remark that India was there for the US and we will be there for them.

He also thanked the Indian-American community and diaspora for their efforts and help to India in combatting the pandemic.

Shringla noted that Jaipur Foot USA Chairman Prem Bhandari sent innumerable consignments of concentrators and cylinders to different parts of the country, which he said made a visible impact.

While COVID cases are declining in the country, Shringla said it does not mean that we cannot have a third wave.

This is something that can affect countries anywhere in the world, and countries, however, resourced and well-equipped to deal with such crisis, have found that they've been wanting given the sheer scale of numbers and the magnitude and severity of the pandemic.

Referring to India-US relations, Shringla said there is a new administration in the US but the continuity has been smooth and seamless.

One of the very important reasons is again the success of the Indian-American community that has contributed to a better understanding between our two great democracies and great nations that I would say have in many senses, the values and principles to lead the world in every aspect of it.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Maharashtra's caseload rose to 61,89,257 with the addition of 8,010 new infections on Thursday, while the death toll jumped to 1,26,560 after 170 patients succumbed to the respiratory illness, a health department official said here.

The state witnessed a drop in the daily COVID-19 cases, while the fatalities remained the same as compared to Wednesday,



when it had reported 8,602 new infections and 170 deaths. Significantly, Parbhani and Jalgaon cities did not report any new infection in the last 24 hours, the official said. The official said as many as 7,391 patients were discharged from hospitals in the last 24 hours, pushing the number of recovered cases to 59,52,192. Maharashtra's COVID-19 recovery rate is 96.17 per cent, while the fatality rate is 2.04 per cent, he said. The state now has 1,07,205 active cases. According to the official, out of 4,48,24,211 COVID-19 tests done so far, 2,14,935 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours. The official said currently 5,81,266 people are in home quarantine and 4,471 in institutional quarantine across the state. The highest active cases, 17,401, are in Pune district, followed by Thane and Mumbai at 15,653 and 10,925, respectively. According to the health department, of the total 59,52,192 recovered patients, the highest - 10,37,193 - were from Pune district, followed by Mumbai and Thane at 7,00,859 and 5,60,811, respectively.

Mumbai recorded 526 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, taking the tally to 7,29,791, while the death toll increased to 15,667 with the addition of 13 fresh fatalities, the official said. He said 346 more people tested positive for the infection in Pune municipal limits, taking the tally to 4,99,467, while the death toll jumped to 8,577 after 13 more patients succumbed to COVID-19 in the city. According to the official, Nagpur, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Nashik, Aurangabad and Amravati municipal corporation areas reported 11, 217, 62, 15 and 12 new COVID-19 cases, respectively.

Coronavirus figures for are as follows: Total cases 61,89,257; new cases 8,010; total deaths 1,26,560; recoveries 59,52,192; active cases 1,07,205; tests conducted so far 4,48,24,211.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Cabinet on Wednesday approved a proposal to extend the age limit for the of Health Department officials from 61 years to 62 years, said state Health Minister Rajesh Tope.

Addressing a press conference after the Cabinet meeting, Tope said he will meet Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and request him to provide an adequate quantity of COVID-19 vaccines to

needs 3 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses every month, he asserted.

He also informed that no new case of the Delta Plus variant of COVID-19 has been reported.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Diamantaire has landed in Antigua and Barbuda, where he has been staying since 2018 after leaving India, after 51 days of custody in neighbouring Dominica for illegal entry which his lawyers claim was a kidnapping plan, local media reported.

Choksi, 62, was given bail by Dominica High Court to travel back to Antigua for seeking medical help from a neurologist based there.

After depositing bail money of EC Dollars 10,000, Choksi in a shirt and shorts flew back to Antigua in a chartered plane, Antigua News Room reported.

While seeking bail, Choksi had attached his medical reports, including CT scan, which showed "mildly worsening hematoma".

The doctors recommend an urgent review of his medical condition by a neurologist and a neurosurgical consultant.

"The services are not currently available on the island (Dominica). All courtesies extended to him would be greatly appreciated," the CT scan report dated June 29 signed by Doctors Yerandy Galle Gutierrez and Rene Gilbert Veranes of Princess Margaret Hospital of Dominica said.

Choksi, wanted in a Rs 13,500 crore bank fraud case in India, had mysteriously gone missing on May 23 from Antigua and Barbuda where he has been staying since 2018 as a citizen.

He was detained in neighbouring island country of Dominica for illegal entry after a possible romantic escapade with his rumoured girlfriend.

His lawyers alleged that he was abducted from Jolly Harbour in Antigua on May 23 by policemen looking like Antiguan and Indian and brought to Dominica on a boat.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Prime Minister on Thursday showered praises on UP Chief Minister for dexterously tackling the Covid-19 pandemic in the countrys most populous state.

Addressing a public meeting in his parliamentary constituency Varanasi, Modi said UPs population was greater than several big nations, yet Adityanath and his team performed exceedingly well to bend the curve amid overwhelming challenges during the second wave.

The PMs remarks lay to rest murmurs of a purported thaw in the relationship between Modi and Yogi over the latters alleged Covid mismanagement in the state, and his style of functioning. Speaking in Varanasi, Modi urged people to follow Covid-appropriate behaviour and said although the positivity rate had slowed down, the danger was far from over as had been witnessed in some countries. Everyone should get vaccinated and follow all safety protocols, he said.





ALSO READ: Why are Covid vaccination rates low in India and vary across states?

The PM inaugurated various development projects and laid the foundation of some others, including an international convention centre with a seating capacity of 1,200. The combined value of all these projects is Rs 1,583 crore.

Speaking at the IIT-BHU ground, Modi said while projects worth more than Rs 10,000 crore had already been dedicated to the people of Varanasi, additional ones worth Rs 8,000 crore were underway in the temple town.

Modi said the positive turnaround in UP happened due to the unflinching focus of the Adityanath government on improving infrastructure, roads, railways, highways, etc. The development of this infrastructure will not only improve the quality of life, but provide a conducive environment for businesses to thrive, he said.

Modi recalled all flagship infra projects in UP, namely Defence Corridor, Purvanchal Expressway, Bundelkhand Expressway, Gorakhpur Link Expressway, Ganga Expressway, etc., which, he said, would take the state to the pinnacle in the coming decade.

Meanwhile, making an informal electoral pitch for the high-stake 2022 UP assembly polls, Modi firmly defended the new farm laws, citing record procurement of foodgrains to drive home his pro-farmer narrative. Modi said the Centre was working to improve the government procurement system and give more agri marketing options to farmers.
The situation prevailing in is a manifestation of "law of the ruler" and not "rule of law", the panel probing alleged post-poll violence in the state has said in a damning indictment of the Mamata Banerjee government, and recommended investigation in cases of rape and murder.

A livid Banerjee promptly hit back, accusing the Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of pursuing BJP's "political vendetta" and claiming the report was "leaked".

The panel, constituted following an order by a five-judge bench of the Calcutta High Court, also said the cases of alleged rape and murder be tried outside the state.

"The committee has recommended that grievous offences like murder, rape, etc should be handed over to the for investigation and these cases should be tried outside the state," the report, submitted to the court in sealed covers on June 13, said.

"The situation in the State of is a manifestation of 'Law of Ruler' instead of 'Rule of Law," the report of the seven-member committee said, as it highlighted "appalling apathy" of the government towards the plight of victims.

After the report was submitted on Tuesday, the court had directed that its soft copies along with annexures be supplied to the counsel for the petitioners, the Election Commission, and the Additional Solicitor General of India.

Banerjee, however, cried foul and claimed the report was leaked to the media by the rights panel.

She also said the team did not consult the state government or take into account its views.

"The BJP is now using impartial agencies to settle political scores and malign our state. The NHRC should have respected the court. Instead of leaking the findings to the media, it should have first submitted the same to the court.

"What would you call it other than political vendetta of the BJP? It is yet to digest defeat (in the assembly polls) and that is why the party is resorting to such tricks," she told a press conference.

A clutch of PILs filed before the court had alleged people were assaulted, forced to flee their homes and their properties destroyed in post-election violence.

A five-judge bench headed by Acting Chief Justice Rajesh Bindal had directed the NHRC chairman on June 18 to constitute a committee to examine all cases of alleged human rights violation during the violence that lasted several days.

"This was retributive violence by supporters of the ruling party against supporters of the main opposition party," the NHRC panel said in the report.

"It is indeed ironical that, in the land of Rabindra Nath Tagore, 'Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high; where the world has not been broken up into fragments by narrow domestic walls'; thousands of its citizens have been subjected to murder, rape, displacement and intimidation, etc. in the last couple of months," it noted.

The report also spoke of government machinery being used to further the objectives of the party in power.

"This may well be death knell for democracy in this great nation. It is high time that the rot is stemmed and this trend is reversed in the interest of having a vibrant democracy in this nation," the committee said in the strongly-worded 50-page report.

It warned that if the worrisome trend was not checked the "disease" may spread to other states also.

Maintaining that the acts of violence resulted in disruption of life and livelihood of thousands of people and their "economic strangulation", the report said, "The local police has been grossly derelict, if not complicit, in this violence."



Holding that violence and intimidation has continued, the report said that there is palpable "fear among victims against police and goons of ruling party."



It said that many displaced persons have not yet been able to return to their homes and resume their normal life and livelihood.

"There have been several sexual offences but victims are scared to speak out. Loss of faith in state administration among victims is very evident," the report noted.

The panel said neither senior officers nor political leaders condemned the violence, visited the spots, assuaged the victims or did anything substantive to ameliorate the problems.

"People were left on their own to protect the violation of their human and fundamental rights, including right to life, liberty, dignified living and health," the committee said, as it held reponsible "a pernicious politico- bureaucratic-criminal nexus" for the violence.

The seven-member panel recommended constituting a committee headed by a retired judge to monitor the implementation of the orders of the high court. The committee should have independent officers as observers in each of the affected districts.

It suggested that barring the grievous cases like rape and murder, which should be handed over to the CBI, others be probed by a court-monitored SIT. The trials, it said, should be conducted in fast track courts and witnesses given adequate protection.

The recommendations included ex-gratia payment, compensation for damage to property, rehabilitation of the victims, protection to women, static pickets of central forces and action against delinquent government servants.

Several teams under the seven-member committee headed by Rajiv Jain visited 311 spots across the state in 20 days before compiling the report.

The panel received around 1,979 complaints about over 15,000 victims from various sources including the NHRC itself, Legal Services Authority, WB Human Rights Commission, Commission for Women and petitions filed in courts.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Chief Minister Thursday ruled out any plans for the reopening of in the capital for now.

"Like we are seeing trends internationally that there will be a third wave of COVID-19. So, until the vaccination process if complete we would not like to take risk with children. So there aren't any plans to reopen as of now," Kejriwal told reporters.

He was responding to a question about whether in will begin to reopen like in other states.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Normal life was thrown out of



gear at several places here and some districts of on Thursday following heavy

Some residential localities in the city suffered inundation, official sources said.

More than 20 localities in the state capital, which experienced since Wednesday, received above 100 mm rainfall by this morning.

Several residential colonies, including at Nagole, Dilsukhnagar and Saroornagar, faced inundation and residents had a tough time trying to bail out water from their houses.

The car of D Sudheer Reddy, MLA from LB Nagar here, was stuck in water when he was visiting rain-affected areas and the vehicle had to be pushed to make it move.

Reddy said relief personnel were on the job following the downpour.

The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation's (GHMC) Disaster Response Force (DRF) teams were on the field trying to address problems caused by the rains, a GHMC official said.

The GHMC has provided a helpline number to the citizens for any emergency assistance.

Meanwhile, Jagtial, Nirmal and other districts in the state have also witnessedheavy

Rivulets and other water bodies were in spate at some places and low-lying areas faced inundation.

The Met Centre of IMD here said light to moderate rain or thunderstorm is very likely to occur at most places over in the next few days.

It also said heavy rain is very likely to occur at isolated places in Rajanna Sircilla, Karimnagar, Siddipet and other districts in the next few days.

Police warned mischief mongers against circulating old videos of flash floods claiming them to be recent.

Hyderabad was lashed by rains last year which left a trail of destruction at various places in the city.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Concerned over enormous misuse of the colonial era penal law on sedition, the on Thursday asked the Centre as to why it was not repealing the provision used by the British to silence people like Mahatma Gandhi to suppress freedom movement.

Agreeing to examine the pleas filed by of India and a former major general, challenging the constitutionality of section 124A (sedition) in the IPC, a bench headed by Chief Justice N V Ramana said its main concern was the "misuse of law" and issued the notice to the Centre.

The non-bailable provision makes any speech or expression that brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the Government established by law in India a criminal offence punishable with a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Mr Attorney (General). We want to ask some questions. This is the colonial era law and the same law was used by the British to suppress freedom movement. It was used by British to silence Mahatma Gandhi, Gokhale and others.

"Is it still necessary to keep this in statute even after 75 years of independence? asked the bench which also comprised justices A S Bopanna and Hrishikesh Roy.

Observing that the provision on sedition has been put to enormous misuse, it also referred to alarming misuse of section 66 A of the Information Technology Act even after the top court set it aside long back and observed: It can be compared to a carpenter, asked to cut a wood, cut the entire forest.

A factionist can invoke these types of (penal) provisions to implicate the other group of people, the CJI said, adding that if a particular party or people do not want to hear a voice, they will use this law to implicate others.

The bench wondered at the continuance of the in statute book for last 75 years and said: We do not know why the government is not taking a decision. Your government has been getting rid of stale laws."

The bench said that it was not blaming any state or government, but unfortunately, the executing agency misuses these laws and there is no accountability.

In a hearing, conducted through video-conferencing, the bench said that if a police officer in a remote village wanted to fix a person then he can easily do so by using such provisions.

Moreover, said the bench, there was very low percentage of convictions in sedition cases and these are the issues which are needed to be decided.

The CJI, on being told that another bench headed Justice U U Lalit has been hearing a similar plea which has been fixed for further consideration on July 27, said he would take call on posting of the matters and notify the date of hearing.

Attorney General K K Venugopal, who was asked to assist the bench in dealing with the case, defended the provision and said it be allowed to remain in the statute book and the court may laid down guidelines to curb the misuse.

Senior advocate Shyam Divan, appearing for the of India, said that a separate plea has been filed by the journalists body challenging the validity of section 124A (sedition) of the IPC and that plea can also be tagged along with the present one.

He said that besides challenging the validity, the Guild has also sought framing of guidelines to curb misuse.

The bench was hearing the fresh plea by former army officer, Major-General S G Vombatkere (Retd), challenging the Constitutional validity of section 124 A (sedition) of the IPC on grounds that it causes a "chilling effect" on speech and is an unreasonable restriction on free expression, a fundamental right.

The bench, referring to the credentials of Vombatkere, said that he gave his entire life to the country and his motive in filing of the case cannot be questioned.

The former Army officer challenged the constitutional validity of the on the ground that it causes "chilling effect" on speech and is an unreasonable restriction on free expression, a fundamental right.

His plea said section 124-A is wholly unconstitutional and should be unequivocally and unambiguously struck down".

The petitioner contends that a statute criminalising expression based on unconstitutionally vague definitions of ''disaffection towards Government'' etc. is an unreasonable restriction on the fundamental right to free expression guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) and causes constitutionally impermissible ''Chilling Effect'' on speech," the plea said.

The petition said there is need to take into account the "march of the times and the development of the law" before dealing with Section 124-A.

Earlier, a separate bench had sought response from the Centre on the plea challenging validity of sedition law, filed by two journalists Kishorechandra Wangkhemcha and Kanhaiya Lal Shukla--working in Manipur and Chhattisgarh respectively.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The head of the World Health Organisation acknowledged it was premature to rule out a potential link between the Covid-19 pandemic and a laboratory leak, and he said Thursday he is asking China to be more transparent as scientists search for the origins of the

In a rare departure from his usual deference to powerful member countries, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said getting access to raw data had been a challenge for the international team that traveled to China earlier this year to investigate the source of Covid-19. The first human cases were identified in the Chinese city of Wuhan.

Tedros told reporters that the UN health agency based in Geneva is asking actually China to be transparent, open and cooperate, especially on the information, raw data that we asked for at the early days of the pandemic".

He said there had been a premature push to rule out the theory that the virus might have escaped from a Chinese government lab in Wuhan - undermining WHO's own March report, which concluded that a laboratory leak was extremely unlikely.

I was a lab technician myself, I'm an immunologist, and I have worked in the lab, and lab accidents happen, Tedros said. It's common.

In recent months, the idea that the pandemic started somehow in a laboratory and perhaps involved an engineered virus has gained traction, especially with President Joe Biden ordering a review of US intelligence to assess the possibility in May.

China has struck back aggressively, arguing that attempts to link the origins of Covid-19 to a lab were politically motivated and suggesting that the virus might have started abroad. At WHO's annual meeting of health ministers in the spring, China said that the future search for Covid-19's origins should continue in other countries.

Most scientists suspect that the originated in bats, but the exact route by which it first jumped into people -- via an intermediary animal or in some other way -- has not yet been determined. It typically takes decades to narrow down the natural source of an animal virus like Ebola or SARS.

Tedros said that checking what happened, especially in our labs, is important" to nailing down if the pandemic had any laboratory links.

We need information, direct information on what the situation of this lab was before and at the start of the pandemic, the WHO chief said, adding that China's cooperation was critical. If we get full information, we can exclude (the lab connection).

Throughout the pandemic, Tedros has repeatedly praised China for its speed and transparency despite senior WHO officials internally griping about obfuscation from their Chinese counterparts.

Last year, The Associated Press found that WHO was frustrated by a lack of details from China during the early stages of the coronavirus' spread and showed that China was clamping down on the hidden hunt for the pandemic's origins.

Numerous public health experts have also called for an independent examination of Covid-19's origins, arguing WHO does not have the political clout to conduct such a forensic analysis and that the UN agency has failed after more than a year to extract critical details from China.

Any WHO-led mission to China also requires government approval for all experts who travel to the country, as well as permission to visit field sites and final approval on any trip report. WHO emergencies chief Dr Michael Ryan has previously said the agency works by consensus and cannot compel countries to cooperate.

Tedros' appeal for transparency was echoed by German Health Minister Jens Spahn, who urged Chinese officials to allow the investigation into the origins of the virus to proceed.

We do appreciate the cooperation of the Chinese government so far for the first mission," Spahn said. But that's not yet enough.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Concerned over enormous misuse of the colonial era penal law on sedition, the on Thursday asked the Centre why it was not repealing the provision used by the British to silence people like Mahatma Gandhi to suppress freedom movement.

Agreeing to examine the pleas filed by Editors Guild of India and a former major general, challenging the Constitutionality of Section 124A (sedition) in the IPC, a bench headed by Chief Justice N V Ramana said its main concern was the "misuse of law" leading to rise in number of cases.

It issued the notice to the Centre, which was accepted by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta.

The non-bailable provision makes any speech or expression that brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the Government established by law in India a criminal offence punishable with a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Mr Attorney (General), we want to ask some questions. This is the colonial era law and the same law was used by the British to suppress freedom movement. It was used by British to silence Mahatma Gandhi, Gokhale and others.

"Is it still necessary to keep this in statute even after 75 years of independence? asked the bench which also comprised Justices A S Bopanna and Hrishikesh Roy.

Observing that the provision on sedition has been put to enormous misuse, it also referred to alarming misuse of Section 66 A of the Information Technology Act even after the top court set it aside long back and observed, It can be compared to a carpenter, asked to cut a wood, cut the entire forest.

A factionist can invoke these types of (penal) provisions to implicate the other group of people, the CJI Ramana said, adding that if a particular party or people do not want to hear a voice, they will use this law to implicate others.

The bench wondered at the continuance of the in statute book for last 75 years and said: We do not know why the government is not taking a decision. Your government has been getting rid of stale laws."



The bench said that it was not blaming any state or government, but unfortunately, the executing agency misuses these laws and there is no accountability.

During the hearing, conducted through video- conferencing, the bench said that if a police officer in a remote village wanted to fix a person then he can easily do so by using such a provision.

Moreover, said the bench, in contrast to huge number of sedition cases lodged by police against persons, there was very low percentage of convictions in sedition cases and these are the issues which are needed to be decided.

Lawyer Vrinda Grover quoted Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data and said there has been a consistent rise in the number of sedition cases being filed and between 2016 and 2019, there has been a 160 per cent increase in the number of cases filed for sedition.

On the issue of cases culminating in convictions, she again referred to the data and said in 2019, 30 cases of sedition were decided, with 29 acquittals and one conviction, and the rate of conviction is abysmal, being 3.3 per cent.

The CJI, on being told that another bench headed by Justice U U Lalit has been hearing a similar plea which has been fixed for further consideration on July 27, said that he would take a call on posting of the matters and notify the date of hearing.

Attorney General K K Venugopal, who was asked to assist the bench in dealing with the case, defended the provision and said it be allowed to remain in the statute book and the court may lay down guidelines to curb the misuse.

Senior advocate Shyam Divan, appearing for the Editors Guild of India, said that a separate plea has been filed by the journalists' body challenging the validity of Section 124A (sedition) of the IPC and that plea can also be tagged along with the present one.

He said that besides challenging the validity, the Guild has also sought framing of guidelines to curb the misuse of the law.

The bench was hearing the fresh plea by former army officer, Major-General S G Vombatkere (Retd), challenging the Constitutional validity of Section 124 A (sedition) of the IPC on the grounds that it causes a "chilling effect" on speech and is an unreasonable restriction on free expression, a fundamental right.

It should be unequivocally and unambiguously struck down", the plea said.

The bench, referring to the credentials of Vombatkere, said that he gave his entire life to the country and his motive in filing of the case cannot be questioned.

The petitioner contends that a statute criminalising expression based on unconstitutionally vague definitions of 'disaffection towards Government' etc. is an unreasonable restriction on the fundamental right to free expression guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) and causes constitutionally impermissible 'Chilling Effect' on speech," the plea said.

There is need to take into account the "march of the times and the development of the law" before dealing with Section 124-A, it said.

Earlier, a separate bench had sought response from the Centre on the plea challenging validity of sedition law, filed by two journalists -- Kishorechandra Wangkhemcha and Kanhaiya Lal Shukla -- working in Manipur and Chhattisgarh respectively.

Meanwhile, during the day, former Union Minister Arun Shourie also moved the top court challenging the law.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Over two weeks to July 11, average daily new Covid-19 cases in have increased by 15.2% and the state accounts for about one in every four new infections in India, data from Covid19India.org show. No other state outside the north east is showing such growth in new Covid-19 cases. The Indian Council of Medical Research has projected, in some scenarios, that India's third wave could begin as early as August. Could the rise in then be heralding the start of the third wave in India?

Unlikely, say health experts, pointing to the absence of a steep rise in infections. Cases are increasing at a slow rate in Kerala, despite the relaxation of lockdown restrictions and the rise of the more transmissible Delta variant in the state, they tell us. "Mobility is up, people are mixing and with Delta [variant dominating], the numbers should be shooting up, not stabilising," Rajeev Sadanandan, the chief executive of Health Systems Transformation Platform (HSTP), a New Delhi-based nonprofit, and Kerala's former additional chief secretary of health, told IndiaSpend.

had about half as many people with Covid-19 antibodies compared to the average, ahead of the second wave, per health ministry data. "Hitherto uninfected pockets of people getting infected are sustaining the current high numbers," Gautam Menon, professor of physics and biology at Ashoka University, Sonepat, told IndiaSpend, adding that these are not increasing substantially.

The slow increase is due to Kerala's better case management, these experts say. The effects of the greater transmissibility of the Delta variant are being countered by better surveillance and the state's higher rate of vaccination. But given the high effective reproduction number of Covid-19 in the state---with one infected person infecting at least one other person, and more than 10% of tests returning a positive result--they caution that Kerala must track, trace and quarantine contacts of infected persons, increase testing and vaccination rates even further, and ease mobility restrictions slowly.

No exponential growth in Kerala's cases as seen in April-May

In April 2021, the average daily increase in cases in Kerala was exponential--reported cases went from 1,804 to 10,319 in just one month, an increase of 472%. In just five more days, cases had crossed the 20,000 mark, and in six days thereafter, the 30,000 mark, data show. By contrast, over the past two weeks, daily cases have risen by 15.2%, from 11,357 to 13,086.

"Epidemics surge and die down when a large number of people have been infected, just like a forest fire is controlled when many trees have been burnt. Then slowly, the epidemic starts picking up again, and builds into another surge, and the sequence continues," said Sadanandan. But the pattern in Kerala is different, he said. "When numbers start going up, people change their behaviour, and after a lag, the numbers start going down. When the numbers start falling, and people start dropping their guard, the numbers go up again. So talk of a third wave in Kerala is meaningless. The troughs and the crests are small, it is a slow burn."

This has been the case throughout the pandemic in Kerala, other than a spike in cases in April 2021, when the Delta variant began spreading in the state, Sadanandan said. Currently, because of the higher transmissibility of the Delta variant, cases have stabilised at a higher level, but the pattern remains the same. In the week to July 11, Kerala has reported an average 12,600 new cases a day.





Better surveillance, case outcomes and vaccination rates

One reason for the larger number of cases in Kerala could be the relatively lower seropositivity--or the prevalence of protective antibodies in people because of prior exposure to Covid-19--said Menon. Data from the third serosurvey conducted from during December 2020 show that 11.6% of those tested in three districts in Kerala had antibodies for Covid-19, while the average was 21%.

"Serological studies for Kerala indicate that a relatively small fraction of the population may have sustained a prior infection, so there may still be a reservoir of people to be infected there and thus a possibility of an abrupt third wave", said Menon. "The state has not flinched from taking rigorous measures to cope with their case numbers, so may be able to manage any increase better," added Menon.

Kerala has managed its Covid-19 patients better, agreed Sadanandan. "[Case] numbers did shoot up in 2021. Kerala was still able to manage the availability of hospital beds, medical oxygen and ICU beds and avoid the panic that occurred in some other places," he said.

Kerala's case fatality ratio of 0.5%--calculated on the basis of cases with known outcomes, whether the patient has recovered or passed away--is less than half of India's 1.3%, data show.

Kerala also has better testing and reporting systems for Covid-19, IndiaSpend had reported in February 2021. It has tested at almost double the countrywide average, data show. Until July 11, India had conducted 317,567 tests per million, compared to 688,299 tests per million in Kerala.

Kerala has also reported Covid-19 deaths more accurately than other states, we reported in June 2021.

At present, it is likely that Kerala's seropositivity is much higher than when the third serosurvey was conducted in the winter, as the Delta variant subsequently affected a lot of people in the state during the peak of India's second wave in April and May, said Sadanandan. "I suspect the seropositivity in Kerala will now be high, unlike last year. This, along with the protection from reasonable coverage of the first dose of vaccines, could be dampening the upward pressure of the virus," said Sadanandan. By July 11, Kerala has fully vaccinated nearly 16% of its adult population, while 43% have received at least one dose. Nationally, about 8% of adults are fully vaccinated and 32% have received one dose.

Kerala is also the only state, besides Maharashtra, that has its own genome sequencing programme to identify variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes Covid-19. Kerala accounts for 11% of all SARS-CoV-2 virus genomes sequenced in India, behind only Maharashtra and Delhi, per a database maintained by the CSIR Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB).

There is a lag in updating the database, per data shared by Vinod Scaria, a genomics scientist at CSIR-IGIB. In all, 5,400 samples from Kerala have been sequenced until now, Scaria told IndiaSpend.

Since March 2021, the prevalence of the Delta variant has been growing in Kerala. From no samples detected in February 2021, 88% of the samples tested in June 2021 were of the Delta variant, which is more transmissible than earlier Covid-19 variants. "The sequencing in Kerala is systematic compared to other states and is adequate," said Scaria. "But a state cannot remain isolated and all states need to do systematic efforts at sequencing to be able to identify emerging variants," he added.

Case reproductive rate, test positivity ratio remain high

Notwithstanding its better surveillance, reporting and case management, Kerala must remain cautious, experts say. "Kerala showed a brief spike in cases and its R number [effective reproduction number] continues to hover close to 1," said Sitabhra Sinha, professor of computational biology and theoretical physics at the Institute of Mathematical Sciences in Chennai.

The R number of a disease tells us the average number of people infected by one Covid-19 patient, on average, according to the World Health Organization. An R level lower than 1 means that the disease will eventually die out as one patient is not even infecting one other person, on average. An R level greater than 1 means the disease will grow fast. An R value equal to 1 would mean that the number of cases would continue at about the same level.

Currently, one Covid-19 patient in Kerala is infecting at least one other person, whereas the overall R value in India is less than 1, data show.

In addition, for the spread of Covid-19 to be considered under control, the test positivity ratio (TPR)--the ratio of the number of positive samples to total tests done--should be below 5%, according to the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, US. A ratio higher than 5% means that many positive cases are being missed and could continue to spread the disease untracked, we reported in September 2020. Kerala's TPR halved from an average 24% in May 2021 to 12% in June, but has stayed at just over 10% since June 20 till date.

To control the spread of Covid-19, "Kerala should repeat what they did in May 2020. Every case should be traced, tracked, and the infected and primary contact should be quarantined. That is the only way you can deal with the Delta variant," Sadanandan suggested.

Kerala began easing mobility restrictions imposed to control the spread of Covid-19 in mid-June. On July 10, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reportedly announced that the easing of restrictions would happen in phases, based on the state's average test positivity rate.

As it reopens, the state must "Increase random testing, stress vaccinations and the removal of vaccine hesitancy, look for any unusual rise in cases and new reported symptoms among positive cases", suggested Menon. "Open up slowly, reserving closed, ill-ventilated spaces for the last and encourage outdoor interactions where possible," he added.
In a bid to spur spending by states amid the Covid-19 pandemic, the Centre on Thursday released as compensation nearly half of the estimated (GST) shortfall for the current fiscal year under the back-to-back loan facility.

The Ministry of Finance released Rs 75,000 crore of the Rs 1.59-trillion estimated as GST revenue shortfall in a single instalment, to facilitate capital spending by states, besides allowing better management of the pandemic, with most states reeling from severe fiscal stress.

The remaining amount will be released to states in the second half of the fiscal year in steady instalments.

For effective response and management of the Covid-19 pandemic and a step-up in capital expenditure (capex), all states and Union Territories (UTs) have a very important role to play. For assisting states/UTs in their endeavour, the Ministry of Finance has front-loaded the release of assistance under the back-to-back loan facility during 2021-22 (FY22), the ministry said in a statement. The Ministry of Finance in the GST Council meeting on May 28 had proposed market borrowing to the tune of Rs 1.58 trillion to compensate states for the GST shortfall through back-to-back loans, like last year, assuming a 7 per cent growth in revenue. The requirement for FY22 has been pegged at Rs 2.7 trillion, of which Rs 1.1 trillion is expected to be met through cess collection.

All eligible states and UTs (with the legislature) have agreed to the arrangements for the funding of the compensation shortfall under the back-to-back loan facility, said the finance ministry.

Centre had projected a gap of Rs 30,000 crore spilled over from last year, which it expects to meet through Rs 1.58-trillion borrowing proposed for FY22. It is expected that this release will help states/UTs in planning their public expenditure for improving health infrastructure (infra0 and taking up infra projects, said the government statement.





The Centres borrowing programme for the remaining period of the first half of the current fiscal year  as announced in the issuance calendar for marketable dated securities for April 2021-September 2021 released on March 31  will remain unchanged, it stated.

Aditi Nayar, chief economist, ICRA Ratings, said the release of these funds from the Government of Indias (GoIs) own borrowings raised so far corroborates the inference that healthy tax and non-tax revenues have augmented cash flows of the central government. She added that the release of Rs 75,000 crore will substantially ease cash flows of state governments and help them ramp up expenditure.

This will complement the pick-up in momentum being seen after the phased unlocking, and bodes well for sustaining the nascent revival, said Nayar.

M S Mani, senior director, Deloitte India, pointed out that while the release of the compensation shortfall amounts committed to states would alleviate the fiscal position of states, the recovery of the amounts borrowed to make the payments would necessitate the extension of the period during which the compensation cess is levied beyond 2022.

States were promised compensation for five years after GST implementation in July 2017 revenue shortfall, assuming a 14-per cent annual growth, since states lost autonomy over indirect taxes. Compensation cess is levied on a few items in the 28-per cent GST slab, such as automobiles, cigarettes, and aerated drinks.

Aditya Singhania, partner, Singhanias GST Consultancy & Co., said the release of Rs 75,000 crore compensation in anticipation of the third Covid-19 wave will iron out the issues being faced by states in handling health and other capex.

Last year, the Centre had estimated a requirement of Rs 2.35 trillion, of which Rs 1.1 trillion was met by way of borrowing and another Rs 70,000 crore came from compensation cess collection, leaving a gap of Rs 55,000 crore, which the government had promised to fulfil over the course of time. The release of Rs 75,000 crore is funded from the borrowings of GoI in five-year securities, totalling Rs 68,500 crore and two-year securities for Rs 6,500 crore issued in the current fiscal year, at a weighted average yield of 5.6 and 4.25 per cent per annum, respectively.
In an attempt to bridge the skill-gap between the students and industry, and The National Association of Software and Service Companies (Nasscom) have provided, about 5,000 underserved students across Karnataka, Telangana and Delhi-NCR, skills in and Over 2,000 of them bagged jobs through the program that is aimed at making India's youth future ready.

As part of IBM's SkillsBuild career readiness program, and Foundation worked with 23 colleges to certify enrolled students on IBM-certified courses on emerging technologies including and in 2019. This program engaged students with an on-campus, 250 hour-long blended training model that uses online and face-to-face training to build skills in new-age technologies.

Subsequently, the program pivoted into a completely online mode of education and learning due to Covid-based restrictions in 2020. Students from 23 Tier-2 and Tier-3 non-technical institutions were trained by partners TMI and iPrimed. The colleges chosen for the program included Vijaya Evening College, East Point College, Vidya Vahini College, Vivekanand Degree College, Karnataka college Dharwad, Siddaganga College, KSS Arts, Science and Commerce College, Siddhaganga Women's College. Several other colleges in Dharwar, Bhagalkot, Gadag, Koppal, Nargund, Bangalore, and Tumkur in Karnataka and Faridabad in Haryana were also a part of the program.

Manoj Balachandran, Leader, Corporate Social Responsibility, India-South Asia said, "Aligned to the Skill India mission, IBM is committed to bridging the skills gap by working with an ecosystem of industry partners, academia and government to provide professional and technical skills to students and teachers. As the industry leader in emerging technologies, we consider it our responsibility to leverage that technical expertise in making skills training accessible to every learner across the country."

After the training, IBM and Foundation, in association with training partners, have been conducting placement drives across the country and have already placed over 2,000 students in leading technology organizations despite the challenges caused by the pandemic.

Nidhi Bhasin, CEO, Foundation, commenting on the completion of the program, said, "The Future is blended learning  be it a combination between face-to-face and online/digital mode or between structured curriculum and skills based or applications based learning, or a fantastic combination between all these. Despite the challenges during the ongoing COVID pandemic, NASSCOM Foundation is proud to work with IBM on this initiative.
India on Thursday said that it is "very" keen to finalise an agreement on fisheries in the as irrational benefits and overfishing by many countries are hurting domestic fishermen and their livelihood.

Commerce and Industry Minister also said that member countries still need to cover significant ground to make the negotiation text on the agreement balanced to meet the concerns of developing and least-developed countries (LDCs).

"We still need to cover significant ground to make the text balanced, to meet the just concerns of developing and LDC Members," Goyal said during an online ministerial meeting of the (World Trade Organisation) on the crucial fisheries subsidy.

The meeting was organised to iron out differences and conclude the negotiations soon to finalise text so that an agreement on fisheries can be reached in the forthcoming ministerial meeting of WTO in December in Geneva.

"India will be submitting proposals very soon to address our concerns including incorporating 'common but differentiated responsibilities' in sharing this common endowment," he said.

He expressed disappointment that the membership is still short of finding the right balance and fairness in the agreement.

"India is very keen to finalize the agreement because irrational and overfishing by many countries is hurting Indian fishermen and their livelihood," he added.

The minister pointed out that it is essential that big subsidy providers take greater responsibility to reduce their subsidies and fishing capacities, in accordance with the principles of 'Polluter Pays' and 'Common but Differentiated Responsibilities'.

Goyal cautioned that the WTO members should not repeat the mistakes made during the Uruguay Round three decades ago that allowed unequal and trade-distorting entitlements for select developed country members, particularly in agriculture.

"These unfairly constrained less-developed members who did not have the capacity and resources to support their industry or farmers then. Goyal expressed concern that any unbalanced or unequal agreement now would bind us into current fishing arrangements, which may not meet future requirements," the minister said.

He said that the proposed agreement has to provide for current and future needs as the per capita fisheries subsidy given by most developing countries is minuscule compared to advanced fishing nations.

Countries like India who are yet to develop fishing capacities, "cannot sacrifice their future ambitions" and allowing advanced nations to continue grant of subsidies is "unequal, unfair and unjust," he noted.

On special and differential treatment (S&DT), he said it is required to not only protect livelihoods of poor fishermen but also to address food security concerns, have necessary policy space for developing the fisheries sector and the need for a larger time period for any transition.

"India is committed to concluding the negotiations, as long as it provides for balancing current and future fishing needs, preserving space for equitable growth in fishing capacities in future, and an effective S&DT without any imbalances," he added.

While developed nations are pushing for prohibitions on subsidies, India wants an equitable and balanced outcome as the country provides support to its small and marginal fishermen who depend on the sector for sustenance.

Unlike rich nations which provide billions of dollars of subsidies to their fishermen, India's subsidy amounts to only about Rs 770 crore. The government provides subsidies on things like fuel and boats.

The objective of these ongoing negotiations is to discipline subsidies with the overall objective to have sustainable fishing and to eliminate IUU (illegal, unreported and unregulated) fishing subsidies and prohibit subsidies contributing to overcapacity and overfishing.

The 12th Ministerial Conference will take place from November 30 to December 3, 2021, in Geneva, Switzerland.

The sector provides livelihood to about 16 million Indian fishermen and fish farmers at the primary level and about twice the number along the value chain.

WTO negotiations on fisheries subsidies were launched in 2001 at Doha, with a mandate to clarify and improve existing WTO disciplines on fisheries subsidies.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The is learnt to have withdrawn a letter sent to iPhone maker seeking compliance of iMessage platform with the new IT rules, according to a source.

has explained to the ministry that iMessage is a feature in its mobile device like every phone has for sending out messages and not an app which can be downloaded by any user.

It also has less than 5 million users of iMessage which is another reason why it is out of the purview of Information Technology (IntermediaryGuidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021.

"Apple's iMessage is not an app available that can be downloaded by anyone. It is a SMS like feature of the phone and hence Meity has withdrawn a letter issued to for seeking compliance," the source said.

An Email query sent to the Ministry of Electronics and IT and Apple elicited no reply.

The new IT rules came into force from May 26.

The rule defines a social media platform which primarily or solely enables online interaction between two or more users and allows them to create, upload, share, disseminate, modify or access information using its services.

Social media platforms having more than 5 million users in India need to comply with the new IT rules. They are required to appoint a chief compliance Officer, nodal contact person and a resident grievance officer and each of them should be resident of India.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
All private in will now be under the purview of the Right to Information Act (RTI) and will have to compulsorily provide the information sought under the Act.

This will bring relief to students and their parents, running from pillar to post, for getting information from unaided, privately managed

The State Information Commission (SIC) has given this ruling and state information commissioner, Pramod Kumar Tiwari, in his order, sought appointment of public information officers in private

That unaided private schools should be under the purview of had been a matter of debate for quite some time.

Following an appeal filed by one Sanjay Sharma in respect to two reputed private schools of Lucknow, the SIC asked the chief secretary to instruct private school administrators to appoint officers to facilitate people to get information under the RTI Act, 2005.

Private schools did not provide information under RTI on the grounds that they were not funded by the state and were outside the purview of the Act.

However, the Supreme Court had ruled that if the development authority of a city provides land to a private school at concessional rates, the school will be considered adequately funded by the state.

The SIC also propounded that the district officer is bound to give all the information mentioned in the form to the petitioner on demand.--IANS

amita/dpb

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) restrictions on from issuing new cards will hit six banks and one non-banking company the most, as these lenders issue a large proportion of credit cards with the payment system operator.

All the credit cards issued by and RBL Bank are in the platform. Bajaj Finserv, has co-branded cards with RBL Bank and also issues cards with as payment system operator.

RBL, in a statement on Thursday, said its run rate of issuing 100,000 cards a month could potentially be impacted due to curbs on Mastercard. RBL has entered with an agreement with Visa on Wednesday though the technology integration will take 8-10 weeks.

Among credit card issuers including co-branded partners, RBL Bank, and Bajaj Finserv lending will be most impacted, in our view, as their entire card schemes are allied with Mastercard, Nomura said in a report.

HDFC Bank has 60 per cent of its card schemes tied to Mastercard, Amex and Diners, while for Axis and ICICI this is about 35-36 per cent, the report said.

is another private sector lender which has been issuing credit cards only with Mastercard. In the last four months, YES Bank has added almost 90,000 cards in its kitty. For new Credit card issuance, the Bank [Yes] is evaluating migration to other platforms for seamless transition, the bank said in a statement to Business Standard.

HDFC Bank  the countrys largest credit card issuer with close to 15 million cards  issues 45% of its cards in the Mastercard platform.

had barred HDFC Bank from new credit cards since December 2020. As a result, the largest private sector banks credit card base declined from 15.38 million in November to 14.85 million in May following the ban. HDFC Bank was adding around 200,000 cards every month before the ban.

ICICI Bank has become aggressive in the credit card segment in recent times as the private sector lender has been issuing 150,000 to 200,000 credit cards in each of the last four months. Almost 36 per cent of the ICICI Bank credit cards are issued with Mastercard.

ICICI Bank is the third largest credit player in the country, having a card base of close to 11 million, according to latest RBI data.

Axis Bank  the third largest private sector lender and fourth largest credit card issuer  issues almost 35 per cent of the cards with Mastercard. Axis Bank, which has seven million credit cards, issued around 100,000 cards in February and March though the figure fell to 50,000 in April.

Among major credit card players, SBI Card is the least dependent on Mastercard as only 10 per cent of its cards are on such a platform. TATA Card  a co-branded credit card of SBI Cards and Tata Capital  only issues cards as Mastercard as the payment system operator. SBI Card is the second largest card issuer in the country with over 11 million cards. SBI Card issue around 1 lakh cards every month.

In India, there are more than 62 million credit cards, as of May 2021. Sources said, over 50 per cent of the market share is captured by Visa, while Mastercard has about 30-35 per cent market share. Credit Cards are mostly issued with Mastercard, and Visa though public sector banks who are not a significant player in the credit card market  also issues home grown Rupay card of National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
The Reserve Bank of India's (RBI's) move to ban from issuing new cards for not complying with the local data storage guidelines may hit five private banks, a non-bank lender, and a major card-issuing company. The impact is expected to be felt for a few months as these players transition to other card networks.

According to Nomura Research, RBL Bank, YES Bank, and Bajaj Finserv are the ones most impacted by the ban as all their schemes are allied to Among others, IndusInd Bank, Axis Bank and ICICI Bank have 35-40 per cent of their schemes tied to Mastercard, the report said. Though HDFC Bank has 45 per cent of its schemes tied to Mastercard, since it is already restricted from issuing new cards, the lender is not incrementally impacted.

Cards-issuing major SBI Cards, too, will feel the heat due to the ban imposed on (see adjoining table), though its small exposure means minimal impact.

Private sector lender RBL Bank, the fifth-largest credit card issuer, said in an exchange notification that it has stitched together an agreement with Visa to issue credit cards. The bank estimates that it will be able to start issuing credit cards on the Visa payment network after the technology integration, which estimates could take about 8-10 weeks. In the interim, it expects its run rate of issuing 100,000 new credit cards per month to be impacted.

YES Bank, which had an exclusive tie-up with Mastercard for credit card issuance, told Business Standard: For new credit card issuance, we are evaluating a migration to other platforms for seamless transition.



Experts, too, expect a lull in card issuance by private Their other income could also take a small hit during this phase. However, public sector will not be impacted as they are increasingly issuing cards on the indigenous RuPay card payment network.

Suresh Ganapathy, associate director, Macquarie Capital Securities, said: For a few months, there will be lower issuance of credit cards, depending on who has how much proportion of Mastercard. Debit card issuance may also be slower, he said, adding that it was a supply issue, which can be corrected in subsequent quarters.

As of now, it looks like an 8-12 week problem, he added. For debit cards, many may move towards RuPay and for credit cards banks will move towards Visa.





The impact on players will vary, depending on their tie-ups with other card networks and the type of cards. For example, RBL Bank has a tie-up with Mastercard for credit card issuance but its debit and prepaid cards were enabled on other payment networks in addition to Mastercard. Similarly, YES Bank said, its are also available on Visa and RuPay platforms.

that have exclusive tie-ups with Mastercard are the ones that have to forge partnerships with other networks. Furthermore, another area of concern is co-branded credit cards, which are tie-ups between banks and vendors/merchants and a particular card network. After the ban, the new issuance of co-branded cards with Mastercard also has to stop.

Axis Bank, one of the largest credit card issuers, has a co-branded credit card with Flipkart on the Mastercard platform. Similarly, has co-branded credit cards with Tata Capital and Club Vistara on the Mastercard platform. RBL Bank has a co-branded credit card with Bookmyshow on the Mastercard platform.

In FY21, Axis Bank sourced nearly 200,000 credit cards through its partnerships with Flipkart and Google Pay, according to its annual report. The banks marquee card proposition Flipkart Axis Bank Credit Card, crossed a significant milestone of 1 million cards in force (CIF) in a record time of 20 months from its launch despite the pandemic slowing down acquisition for a few months, the bank said.

An email sent to Axis Bank seeking comments went unanswered. An SBI Cards spokesperson said: We have a diversified product portfolio on multiple networks, viz. Rupay, Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Our new customer acquisition impact is minimal as there are only a few co-brand credit cards on the Mastercard network.

It should be noted that the RBI ban is only on fresh issuances, while the existing cards business remains unimpacted.

Visa is the largest player in the space, followed by Mastercard and RuPay, according to industry estimates. But Mastercard is seen as enjoying a premium position in the industry. RuPay is seen as a disruptor, fast catching up with its global peers. While data on the market share of card operators is not available in the public domain, the National Payments Corporation of India had earlier this year said RuPays market share by volume was 34 per cent and 30 per cent by value.

According to the RBIs latest figures, there are 902.3 million and 60.23 million credit cards. In debit cards, all three players command a sizeable share, but in credit cards, Visa and Mastercard are the dominant players.
through UPI recorded phenomenal growth during the pandemic year 2020-21 and several countries have evinced interest to learn from Indian experience so that they could replicate the model, Financial Services Secretary Debasish Panda said on Thursday.

The COVID-19 pandemic, he said, has encouraged people to use digital means for financial transactions and "the growth during the pandemic is phenomenal".

More than 22 crore UPI financial transactions worth Rs 41 lakh crore were recorded during 2020-21 when the entire world was in the grip of the coronavirus pandemic, Panda noted.

"We are very pleased to see that happening in our country. The UPI platform has actually transformed (financial transactions) and a lot of countries are actually coming and trying to learn from our experience so that they could actually replicate it in their countries. That's the success which we have achieved," he said at ET Financial Inclusion Summit.

Earlier this week, Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launched BHIM-UPI QR-based payments in Bhutan. This is expected to benefit more than 2,00,000 tourists from India who travel to Bhutan each year.

With this launch, Bhutan will become the first country to adopt Unified Payment Interface (UPI) standards for its QR deployment. Bhutan will also become the only country to issue and accept RuPay cards as well as BHIM-UPI.

It is to be noted that India launched an indigenously-developed RuPay Card in Bhutan in 2019 and phase two was launched in November 2020.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
At Bagram air base, Afghan scrap merchants are already picking through the graveyard of U.S. military equipment that was, until recently, the headquarters of Americas 20-year occupation of their country. Afghan officials say the last U.S. forces slipped away from Bagram in the dead of night, without notice or coordination.

The Taliban are rapidly expanding their control over hundreds of districts, usually through negotiations between local elders, but also by force when troops loyal to the Kabul government refuse to give up their outposts and weapons.

A few weeks ago, the Taliban controlled a quarter of the country. Now its a third. They are taking control of border posts and large swathes of territory in the north of the country. These include areas that were once strongholds of the Northern Alliance, a militia that prevented the Taliban from unifying the country under their rule in the late 1990s.

People of good will all over the world hope for a peaceful future for the people of Afghanistan, but the only legitimate role the United States can play there now is to pay reparations, in whatever form, for the damage it has done and the pain and deaths it has caused. Speculation in the U.S. political class and corporate media that the U.S. can keep bombing and killing Afghans from over the horizon should cease.

The U.S. and its corrupt puppet government lost this war. Now its up to the Afghans to forge their future.

So what about Americas other endless crime scene,

U.S. Airstrikes on Iraqs Popular Mobilization Forces

The U.S. corporate media only mention when our leaders suddenly decide that the over 150,000 bombs and missiles they have dropped on and Syria since 2001 were not enough  and reason that dropping a few more on Iranian allies there will appease some hawks in Washington without starting a full-scale war with

But for 40 million Iraqis, as for 40 million Afghans, Americas most stupidly chosen battlefield is their country, not just an occasional news story. They are living their entire lives under the enduring impacts of the neocons war of mass destruction.

Young Iraqis took to the streets in 2019 to protest 16 years of corrupt government by the former exiles to whom the United States handed over their country and its oil revenues.

The 2019 protests were directed at the Iraqi governments corruption and failure to provide jobs and basic services to its people, but also at the underlying, self-serving foreign influences of the United States and over every Iraqi government since the 2003 invasion.

A new government was formed in May 2020, headed by British-Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi, previously the head of Iraqs Intelligence Service and, before that, a journalist and editor for the U.S.-based Al-Monitor Arab news website.

Despite his Western background, al-Kadhimi has initiated investigations into the embezzlement of $150 billion in Iraqi oil revenues by officials of previous governments, who were mostly former Western-based exiles like himself. And he is walking a fine line to try to save his country, after all it has been through, from becoming the front line in a new U.S. war on

Recent U.S. airstrikes have targeted Iraqi security forces called Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), which were formed in 2014 to fight the Islamic State (IS), the twisted religious force spawned by the U.S. decision, only 10 years after 9/11, to unleash and arm al-Qaeda in a Western proxy war against Syria.

The PMFs now comprise about 130,000 troops in 40 or more different units. Most were recruited by pro-Iranian Iraqi political parties and groups, but they are an integral part of Iraqs armed forces and are credited with playing a critical role in the war against IS.

Western media represent the PMFs as militias that Iran can turn on and off as a weapon against the United States, but these units have their own interests and decision-making structures. When Iran has tried to calm tensions with the United States, it has not always been able to control the PMFs. General Haider al-Afghani, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard officer in charge of coordinating with the PMF, recently requested a transfer out of Iraq, complaining that the PMFs are paying no attention to him.

Ever since the U.S. assassination of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani and PMF commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis in January 2020, the PMFs have been determined to force the last remaining U.S. occupation forces out of Iraq. After the assassination, the Iraqi National Assembly passed a resolution calling for U.S. forces to leave Iraq. Following U.S. airstrikes against PMF units in February, Iraq and the United States agreed in early April that U.S. combat troops would leave soon.

No Iraq Withdrawal in Sight

But no date has been set and no detailed agreement has been signed. Many Iraqis do not believe U.S. forces will leave, nor do they trust the Kadhimi government to ensure their departure. As time has gone by without a formal agreement, some PMF forces have resisted calls for calm from their own government and Iran, and stepped up attacks on U.S. forces.

At the same time, the Vienna talks over the JCPOA nuclear agreement have raised fears among PMF commanders that Iran may sacrifice them as a bargaining chip in a renegotiated nuclear agreement with the United States.

So, in the interest of survival, PMF commanders have become more independent of Iran, and have cultivated a closer relationship with Prime Minister Kadhimi. This was evidenced in Kadhimis attendance at a huge military parade in June 2021 to celebrate the seventh anniversary of the PMFs founding.

The very next day, the U.S. bombed PMF forces in Iraq and Syria, drawing public condemnation from Kadhimi and his cabinet as a violation of Iraqi sovereignty. After conducting retaliatory strikes, the PMF declared a new ceasefire on June 29th, apparently to give Kadhimi more time to finalize a withdrawal agreement. But six days later, some of them resumed rocket and drone attacks on U.S. targets.

Whereas Trump only retaliated when rocket attacks in Iraq killed Americans, a senior U.S. official has revealed that Biden has lowered the bar, threatening to respond with airstrikes even when Iraqi militia attacks dont cause U.S. casualties.

But U.S. air strikes have only led to rising tensions and further escalations by Iraqi militia forces. If U.S. forces respond with more or heavier airstrikes, the PMF and Irans allies throughout the region can respond with more widespread attacks on U.S. bases. The further this escalates and the longer it takes to negotiate a genuine withdrawal agreement, the more pressure Kadhimi will get from the PMF, and other sectors of Iraqi society, to show U.S. forces the door.

The U.S. Troop Presence in Iraq and the Iran Deal

The official rationale for the U.S. presence, as well as that of NATO training forces in Iraqi Kurdistan, is that the Islamic State is still active. A suicide bomber killed 32 people in Baghdad in January, and IS still has a strong appeal to oppressed young people across the region and the Muslim world. The failures, corruption and repression of successive post-2003 governments in Iraq have provided fertile soil.

But the United States clearly has another reason for keeping forces in Iraq: as a forward base in its simmering war on Iran. That is exactly what Kadhimi is trying to avoid by replacing U.S. forces with the Danish-led NATO training mission in Iraqi Kurdistan. This mission is being expanded from 500 to at least 4,000 forces, made up of Danish, British, and Turkish troops.

If Biden had quickly rejoined the JCPOA nuclear agreement with Iran on taking office, tensions would be lower by now, and the U.S. troops in Iraq might well be home already. Instead, Biden obliviously swallowed the poison pill of Trumps Iran policy by using maximum pressure as a form of leverage, escalating an endless game of chicken the United States cannot win  a tactic that Obama began to wind down six years ago by signing the JCPOA.

The U.S. withdrawal from Iraq and the JCPOA are interconnected, two essential parts of a policy to improve U.S.-Iranian relations and end the U.S.s antagonistic and destabilizing interventionist role in the Middle East. The third element for a more stable and peaceful region is the diplomatic engagement between Iran and Saudi Arabia, in which Kadhimis Iraq is playing a critical role as the principal mediator.

The fate of the Iran nuclear deal is still uncertain. The sixth round of shuttle diplomacy in Vienna ended on June 20th, and no date has been set for a seventh round yet. President Bidens commitment to rejoining the agreement seems shakier than ever, and President-elect Raisi of Iran has declared he will not let the Americans keep drawing out the negotiations.

In an interview on June 25th, U.S. Secretary of State Blinken upped the ante by threatening to pull out of the talks altogether. He said that if Iran continued to spin more sophisticated centrifuges at higher and higher levels, it will become very difficult for the United States to return to the original deal. Asked whether or when the United States might walk away from negotiations, he said, I cant put a date on it, (but) its getting closer.

What should really be getting closer is the U.S. withdrawal of troops from Iraq. While is portrayed as the longest war the United States has fought, the U.S. military has been bombing Iraq for 26 of the last 30 years. The fact that the U.S. military is still conducting defensive airstrikes 18 years after the 2003 invasion and nearly 10 years since the official end of the war, proves just how ineffective and disastrous this U.S. military intervention has been.

Weve Learned from  Now Lets Learn from Iraq

Biden certainly seems to have learned the lesson in that the U.S. can neither bomb its way to peace nor install U.S. puppet governments at will. When pilloried by the press about the Taliban gaining control as U.S. troops withdraw, Biden answered:

For those who have argued that we should stay just six more months or just one more year, I ask them to consider the lessons of recent history Nearly 20 years of experience has shown us, and the current security situation only confirms, that just one more year of fighting in Afghanistan is not a solution but a recipe for being there indefinitely. Its the right and the responsibility of the Afghan people alone to decide their future and how they want to run their country.

The same lessons of history apply to Iraq. The U.S. has already inflicted so much death and misery on the Iraqi people, destroyed so many of its beautiful cities, and unleashed so much sectarian violence and IS fanaticism. Just like the shuttering of the massive Bagram base in Afghanistan, Biden should dismantle the remaining imperial bases in Iraq and bring the troops home.

The Iraqi people have the same right to decide their own future as the people of Afghanistan, and all the countries of the Middle East have the right and the responsibility to live in peace, without the threat of American bombs and missiles always hanging over their and their childrens heads.

Lets hope Biden has learned another history lesson: that the United States should stop invading and attacking other countries.
At least 42 people have died in and dozens were missing on Thursday as swollen rivers caused by record rainfall across western swept through towns and villages, leaving cars upended, houses destroyed and people stranded on rooftops.

Eighteen people died and dozens were unaccounted for around the wine-growing region of Ahrweiler, in Rhineland-Palatinate state, police said, after the Ahr river that flows into the Rhine broke its banks and brought down half a dozen houses.

Another 15 people died in the Euskirchen region south of the city of Bonn, authorities said. People in region were asked to evacuate their homes.

In Belgium, two men died due to the torrential rain and a 15-year-old girl was missing after being swept away by an overflowing river.

Hundreds of soldiers and 2,500 relief workers were helping police with rescue efforts in Tanks were deployed to clear roads of landslides and fallen trees and helicopters winched those stranded on rooftops to safety.

Around 200,000 households lost power due to the

In Ahrweiler, two wrecked cars were propped steeply against either side of the town's stone gate and locals used snow shovels and brooms to sweep mud from their homes and shops after the floodwaters receded.

"I was totally surprised. I had thought that water would come in here one day, but nothing like this," resident Michael Ahrend told Reuters. "This isn't a war - it's simply nature hitting out. Finally, we should start paying attention to it." The have caused Germany's worst mass loss of life in years. Flooding in 2002 killed 21 people in eastern and more than 100 across the wider central European region.

Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed her dismay.

"I am shocked by the catastrophe that so many people in the flood areas have to endure. My sympathy goes out to the families of the dead and missing."

In Washington for a farewell visit before she steps down following a federal election in September, Merkel promised financial aid for those affected.

"You can trust that all branches of government, federal, state and local, will join forces to do everything they can to save lives, avert danger and alleviate hardship," she said.

Armin Laschet, the conservative candidate to succeed Merkel as chancellor and premier of the hard-hit state of North Rhine-Westphalia, blamed the extreme weather on global warming.

"We will be faced with such events over and over, and that means we need to speed up climate protection measures, on European, federal and global levels, because climate change isn't confined to one state," he said during a visit to the area.

Climate and the environment are central themes in the election campaign, in which Laschet is going head-to-head with Social Democrat candidate Olaf Scholz and Annalena Baerbock of the Greens.

'Catastrophe'

In Belgium, around 10 houses collapsed in Pepinster after the river Vesdre flooded the eastern town and residents were evacuated from more than 1,000 homes.

The rain also caused severe disruption to public transport, with high-speed Thalys train services to Germany cancelled.

Traffic on the river Meuse is also suspended as the major Belgian waterway threatened to breach its banks.

Downstream in the Netherlands, flooding rivers damaged many houses in the southern province of Limburg, where several care homes were evacuated.

In addition to the fatalities in the Euskirchen region, another nine people, including two firefighters, died elsewhere in North Rhine-Westphalia.

In the town of Schuld, houses were reduced to piles of debris and broken beams. Roads were blocked by wreckage and fallen trees.

"It was catastrophic," said 65-year-old pensioner Edgar Gillessen, whose family home had been damaged.

"All these people living here, I know them all. I feel so sorry for them, they've lost everything. A friend had a workshop over there, nothing standing, the bakery, the butcher, it's all gone. It's scary. Unimaginable."

Further down the Rhine river, the heaviest rainfall ever measured over 24 hours caused flooding in cities including Cologne and Hagen, while in Leverkusen 400 people had to be evacuated from a hospital.

In Wuppertal, known for its overhead railway, locals said their cellars had been flooded and power cut off. "I can't even guess at how much the damage will be," said Karl-Heinz Sammann, owner of the Kitchen Club discotheque.

Weather experts said that rain in the region over the past 24 hours had been unprecedented, as a near-stationary low-pressure weather system also caused sustained local downpours to the west in France, Belgium and the Netherlands.

Rainwater draining into the Rhine, where shipping traffic was partly suspended, was expected to test flood defences along the river, including in Cologne, on the lower Rhine, and Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle merge.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A top official at the European Medicines Agency said a decision on whether to recommend that Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine be authorised for children is expected late next week. If approved, it would be the first such license for the shot's use in children globally.

At a press briefing on Thursday, Dr. Marco Cavaleri, the EU drug regulator's head of vaccines strategy, said its expert committee was currently evaluating Moderna's application to extend the use of its vaccine for children 12 to 17 years old.

We expect that the committee will reach a conclusion by the end of next week, he said.

Moderna's vaccine was given the green light for use in anyone 18 and over across the 27-nation in January.

It has also been licensed in countries including Britain, Canada and the US, but so far its use has not been extended to children.

To date, the vaccine made by Pfizer-BioNTech is the only one approved for children under 18 in Europe and North America.

The EMA said last week there was a possible link between the vaccines made by Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech to very rare cases of chest and heart inflammation, mostly in younger adult men.

They said the effects were mostly temporary and that the benefits of vaccination still far outweighed the risks of COVID-19.

Last week, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the EU has now delivered enough vaccines to immunize 70 per cent of its adult population and many countries are looking to inoculate children, despite the significantly lower risk they face from COVID-19.

Although Britain's regulatory agency has authorized the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children, its vaccine advisory group has yet to recommend that teens be immunized.

Moderna has also filed for its vaccine to be licensed for younger teens and children in the US.

Many public health officials say rich countries should donate their vaccines once their adult populations are covered, pointing out that millions of people in developing countries at high risk of the disease, including health workers and the elderly, have yet to receive a single shot.

In June, WHO's vaccines director Dr Kate O'Brien said that vaccinating children against COVID-19 is not a high priority given the extremely limited vaccine supplies globally. While more than 3 billion doses of COVID-19 shots have been administered, fewer than 2 per cent have been in poor countries, where the easier-to-spread delta variant is now fueling explosive surges.

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By Koustav Samanta

(Reuters) - Fresh travel restrictions due to a resurgence in COVID-19 infections have dashed hopes for a recovery in Asian this year and worsened the outlook for the entire refining sector as jet supplies mount and erode overall refining margins.

While aviation in the U.S. and Europe recuperates on eased lockdown measures and summer travelling demand, Asia's worsening pandemic is expected to keep flights grounded and poses a serious challenge to refiners who are already facing the highest oil prices since 2018 and crude refining margins of less than $2.50 a barrel.

"The persistent weakness in jet fuel cracks would definitely weigh on overall refining margins in Asia," said Sukrit Vijayakar, director of Indian energy consultancy Trifecta.

"There is a part of the jet pool that cannot be blended away elsewhere. And its poorer cousin, kerosene, sells for far less than jet."

STALLED RECOVERY

Several Asian countries were among the first to emerge from COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020, but fresh flare ups of new strains in recent months have forced many key destinations to tighten movement restrictions again, including Japan, South Korea, Indonesia and Vietnam.

Graphic: Asia's refining margins start to lag U.S. and Europe as overseas travel picks up - https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/ce/qmypmdlqzvr/GlobalRefMargins.png

Scheduled flight capacity in Japan this week was 55.6% below the corresponding week in pre-pandemic 2019, while capacity in South Korea, Australia and India were down 46.4%, 56.7% and 40.1% respectively, according to aviation data firm OAG.

In contrast, European and U.S aviation capacity is recovering much faster, presenting refiners in those markets with a growing outlet for the fuels they produce.

Refiners in Asia, however, are saddled with growing quantities of excess jet fuel that they are unable to store for long due to its tendency to deteriorate in quality. That leaves them with two options: either hope to sell it to other regions, or blend it into other lower-value fuels and eat away at overall refining margins.

Graphic: Benchmark Asia refining margins by product - https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/ce/azgvoqxlnvd/AsiaRefiningMarginsJul2021.png

"Kerosene molecules continue to flow into both the gasoil and naphtha pools - and some into the bunker pool even - and will continue to do so as long as weak jet pricing calls for these blending operations," said Philip Jones-Lux, head of downstream at consultancy JBC Energy.

Some refiners in Southeast Asia might even be forced to cut runs temporarily if jet fuel's weakness persists, traders and analysts said.

WINTER RESPITE

Jet fuel's demand outlook is expected to improve by year end as vaccine rollouts accelerate and seasonal heating demand for kerosene kicks in, according to two refining sources.

That should help lift Asian jet refining profits, also known as cracks, from around $6-8 per barrel over Dubai crude during Q3 to $7-9 per barrel in Q4, market watchers said.

Graphic: Singapore jet fuel margins average less than half of long-term average as flights stay grounded - https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/ce/xegpbzxwepq/JetCrackSeasonalJul2021.png

The cracks, which are currently 52% lower than their 10-year seasonal average for this time of the year, have averaged $5.53 per barrel in Q2, compared with $4.03 per barrel in the first three months of the year, Refinitiv Eikon data showed.

ROAD VS AIR

Although an uptick in domestic flights in recent weeks has brought some respite, overall remains far below pre-pandemic levels as a majority of long-haul flights remain grounded.

This has led to a disconnect between consumption of jet fuel and ground transportation fuels which have benefited from more regular use this year as most governments avoided the full-scale lockdowns that were common in 2020.

This in turn has kept the price spread between jet and gasoil, called regrade, negative.

Graphic: Singapore jet 'regrade' seen staying negative while flights remain grounded - https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/ce/dgkvlrykrvb/SingaporeRegrade.png

"Given our expectation for leisure travel to be among the last sectors to see a 'normalisation' in demand, it is fair to assume that there will continue to be a disconnect between demand for motor fuels and that for jet fuel," said Peter Lee, senior oil & gas analyst at Fitch Solutions.

Jet fuel is expected to remain subdued well into next year, and it will likely take until December or January for jet regrade to recover to near its historical average.

"Jet/Kero is the key lagging product from a demand perspective, and we can expect negative regrades to continue well into next year," said Richard Gorry, managing director at JBC Energy Asia.

"The global recovery of air traffic is simply not sufficient to absorb rising production, and a strengthening diesel crack is keeping the regrade subdued."

(Reporting by Koustav Samanta; Editing by Gavin Maguire and Kim Coghill)

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The commander of US forces in Gen Scott Miller returned from the country almost winding up the longest American war, even as Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin assured that America's Afghan mission is not yet over and that it would continue to support Kabul.

Scott and his staff are home now, and we are grateful for their safe return. But our mission in is not over. The drawdown continues and will be complete by the end of August, Austin said hours after he welcomed Miller at the Pentagon on his return from Kabul after three years of his posting there.

The Department of Defense, he said, remains committed to protecting its diplomatic presence in the country, continuing to provide funding to the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces and advising Afghan security ministries, and preventing the re-emergence of violent extremist organisations.

"We will also be working closely with the State Department to help relocate those Afghans and their families who have been of such service to our mission. We take seriously our obligation to them, and we honour their contributions, Austin said.

US troops at the direction of President Joe Biden have all but returned from Biden has asked that all the US troops need to withdraw from Afghanistan by September 11. The Pentagon is likely to meet the goal weeks before that.

"As we have over the last 20 years, so must we continue to honour the service and sacrifice of those who have performed so bravely in the field. They and their families have struggled and sacrificed on our behalf. In many ways they still do. But they also have much for which to be proud, he said.

That we have not been attacked from Afghanistan since 9-11, that the Afghan government now has the opportunity to advance the progress which has been made in their country, and that the Afghan forces now have in their possession the capabilities, the advantages they need to defend their people -- all stand as testament to the skill, professionalism and courage of our troops and those of our allies," Austin said.

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Haiti's chief on Wednesday accused a Venezuelan businessman who owns a security company in Florida of travelling to numerous times as part of a plot to assassinate President Jovenel Moise, who was killed last week.

Leon Charles, head of the Haiti's National Police, said Antonio Intriago of CTU Security signed a contract while in but provided no other details and offered no evidence.

The investigation is very advanced, Charles said.

Intriago could not be immediately reached for comment.

Colombia's national chief has said that CTU Security used its company credit card to buy 19 plane tickets from Bogota to Santo Domingo for the Colombian suspects allegedly involved in the killing.

During a news conference Wednesday evening, Charles pleaded with Haitians to help officials track down suspects who remain on the run, including a former senator he described as a key suspect and is accused of providing weapons used in the July 7 attack.

Former Sen John Joel Joseph, a Haitian politician and opponent of the Tet Kale party that Moise belonged to, is one of five fugitives whom say are armed and dangerous.

We are looking for these assassins, and wherever they go we need to capture them, arrest them and bring them to justice, Charles said.

In a video posted last year on YouTube, the former senator compared Mose to the coronavirus, saying Haitians have died from hunger or been killed amid a spike in violence under his administration.

Insecurity has infected every single Haitian, Joseph said.

The police chief also announced the arrest of Gilbert Dragon, who led a rebel group known as the National Revolutionary Front for the Liberation and Reconstruction of The group seized power in parts of Haiti after the 2004 coup that led to the ouster of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide.

Authorities said they found several weapons at his house, including a saber, two grenades and an AR-15.

In addition, officers arrested a Haitian man identified as Reynaldo Corvington, who is accused of providing the suspects with housing and giving them sirens to use on top of their cars with help from another suspect, James Solages, a Haitian American who was detained in recent days.

Corvington owns a private security company called Corvington Courier & Security Service, which he established in 1982, according to its website, which provides tips on how to survive a kidnapping.

Police said they found several weapons at his house, including nine pistols and an AR-15.

Another of the fugitives identified by police is Joseph Felix Badio. Charles said Badio rented a house near Moise's home to help the suspects understand the layout of the area.

Badio previously worked for Haiti's Ministry of Justice and joined the government's anti-corruption unit in March 2013. The agency issued a statement saying he was fired in May following serious breaches of unspecified ethical rules, adding that it filed a complaint against him.

This villainous act is an affront to our democracy, the unit said in a statement.

Charles, the police chief, said four high-ranking officials who were in charge of the president's security detail are being held in isolation as authorities continue to track down other fugitives, including Rodolphe Jaar. He was born in Haiti, speaks English and has a college degree in business administration, according to court records. He is not a U.S. citizen.

Jaar, who once used the alias Whiskey, was indicted in 2013 in federal court in South Florida on charges of conspiring to smuggle cocaine from Colombia and Venezuela through Haiti to the U.S. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to nearly four years in prison, according to court records.

At his 2015 sentencing hearing, Jaar's attorney told the court that Jaar had been a confidential source for the US government for several years before his indictment. He also agreed to cooperate with federal authorities and asked for a lighter sentence, saying he had a wife, 1-year-old and elderly parents.

In June 2000, Jaar filed a civil suit against the US government seeking the return of a large amount of cash taken from him along with his passport and tourist visa when he was stopped in a rental car by customs agents. He was not arrested at the time, but Jaar said he learned he was under investigation for money laundering.

The government later returned his property and did not file charges. Jaar, who dropped the lawsuit, described himself in court papers as the owner of a successful import business in Haiti. He said his family has operated the enterprise since 1944.

Authorities in Haiti are investigating Mose's killing with help from Colombia's government, which has said at least 18 former Colombian soldiers suspected in the slaying have been arrested and remain detained in Haiti. Charles said three Haitians also have been arrested and at least three suspects killed, adding that they continue to investigate those detained to identify the masterminds behind the slaying.

The detained Haitians have been identified as Solages, Joseph Vincent and Christian Emmanuel Sanon.

Police had said Sanon flew to Haiti in June aboard a private jet with several of the alleged gunmen. The 62-year-old is a Haitian physician, church pastor and Florida businessman who once expressed a desire to lead Haiti in a YouTube video and has denounced the country's leaders as corrupt.

Charles said that Sanon was working with those who plotted the assassination and that Mose's killers were protecting him. He said officers who raided Sanon's house in Haiti found a hat with a DEA logo, 20 boxes of bullets, gun parts, four license plates from the Dominican Republic, two cars and correspondence.

A business associate and a pastor in Florida who knew Sanon told The Associated Press that the suspect was religious and that they did not believe he would be involved in violence. The associate, who spoke on condition of anonymity for security reasons, said he believes Sanon was duped, describing him as completely gullible.

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Outgoing Iranian President said that the country is capable of producing enriched of 90 per cent purity.

In pursuing the peaceful use of nuclear technology, the Atomic Energy Organization of has shown its capability and power to produce enriched at higher degrees (of purity), Xinhua news agency quoted Rouhani as saying in a cabinet meeting on Wednesday.

"If one day 90 per cent (enriched uranium) is needed for a reactor, we have no problem in doing so in a peaceful way," he added.

Even the pressure from former US President Donald Trump could not halt the progress of Iran's peaceful nuclear program, Rouhani noted.

After a blackout struck the Natanz enrichment facility in April, accused Israel of sabotaging the nuclear site and announced that it began to produce enriched at 60 per cent purity.

--IANS

ksk/

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Corp. Chief Executive Officer said the company is on the right side of history in the antitrust debates about whether big technology abuse user privacy and squash competition.

While Congress and U.S. regulators have clashed with Inc., Alphabet Inc., Amazon.com Inc. and Apple Inc. over the companies business practices, hasnt received the same kind of scrutiny more than 20 years after it was sued by the U.S. Justice Department on antitrust issues.

The software company makes sure user privacy and internet safety are among its highest priorities for products and then when it comes to competition, I mean you should go talk to the people who are investing a lot of capital and a lot of M&A competing with and we welcome that, Nadella said Wednesday in an interview with Bloomberg Television.

During the interview, the Microsoft CEO also spoke about cybersecurity threats, the future of remote work and the companys rivalry with Alphabets

Nadella said he is concerned about the wave of hacks in the past few months, which have included ransomware attacks that stopped business at a major pipeline company and food producer in the U.S.

We have another real pandemic, which is a cyber pandemic, he said. The level of attacks for sure have increased, but the need for our response to be top notch has also increased. We just have to get better as an industry.

Nadella also discussed tensions with Google, following the end of a five-year cease-fire between the two companies, which mutually agreed not to fuel legal lobbying efforts against one another. He said he has a lot of respect for and its leadership.

Were fighting the good fight to sort of compete against colossal lead in that space, he said of digital advertising sales, which is led by and

Nadella weighed in on Microsofts work-from-home policy, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and accommodating changed expectations in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. He spoke with Bloomberg Television after appearing at Microsofts Inspire conference for partners, where the company among its announcements unveiled a cloud-based version of Windows aimed at remote workers.

Well really think about long-term policies based on, quite frankly, having all of that data behind us because otherwise I think were trying to come up and being too overly dogmatic, he said.
Former US Vice President on Wednesday called on US President to take more steps to keep up the pressure on China amid the "emerging cold war".

Pence, speaking at an event, suggested the Biden administration should build on the aggressive approach the Trump administration took in the region, the Hill reported.

"Our elected leaders must build on the progress of the Trump-Pence administration, and use the economic and military power of the United States to check the ambitions of the Chinese Communist Party in ways that put the American people and American values first," Pence said. "Only a proud, confident and united America can meet the challenge of China."

The former vice president also urged Biden to demand the 2022 Winter Olympics to be moved out of Beijing due to the Chinese treatment of Uyghurs Muslims in Xinjiang.

Pence, who chaired the White House coronavirus task force, condemned China's lack of transparency around the origins of the pandemic and argued evidence "strongly suggests the coronavirus leaked out of a Chinese lab."

Pence called for the U.S. to halt public and private funding for scientific labs in China, cautioning that doing so makes America "complicit in every human rights abuse committed with American-funded technology."

Pence further called for a more aggressive decoupling of U.S. economic interests from Chinese industries, warning that a failure to do so would lead to a greater dependence on Chinese goods. And he suggested Biden seek out a trade deal with Taiwan, whose status is a source of tension between the U.S. and China.

And Pence emphasized the need for a strong Navy to combat Chinese aggression in the Indo-Pacific region.

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Nepal's government on Thursday recommended President to summon the new session of the House of Representatives on July 18, according to a Cabinet minister.

A Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba made the decision to summon the meeting of the reinstated House on July 18, Home Minister Bal Krishna Khand told reporters.

This would be the first meeting of the 275-member lower house of parliament after it was unconstitutionally dissolved on May 22.

A five-member Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court led by Chief Justice Cholendra Shumsher Rana on Monday reinstated the dissolved House of Representatives for a second time in five months.

The bench issued a mandamus to appoint then Opposition Leader Deuba as the Prime Minister by Tuesday and also ordered summoning new session of House of Representatives on July 18.

President Bhandari had dissolved the lower house for the second time in five months on May 22 at the recommendation of then Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and announced snap elections on November 12 and November 19.

Nepali Congress President Deuba took the oath of office and secrecy on July 13 along with four new ministers - two each from Nepali Congress (NC) and CPN-Maoist Centre.

He has replaced 69-year-old Oli, who has accused the apex court of "deliberately" passing the verdict in favour of the Opposition parties.

Deuba is required to seek a vote of confidence from the House of Representatives within 30 days of his appointment as the Prime Minister, as per the constitutional provisions.

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The United Arab Emirates on Wednesday became the first Gulf nation to open an embassy in Israel, nearly a year after both countries signed an agreement to normalise diplomatic ties.

The new mission is located in Tel Aviv Stock Exchange building. The ceremony was attended by new Israeli President Isaac Herzog, The Times of reported.

Ambassador Mohammad Mahmoud Al Khajah officially presented his credentials at the beginning of March but the official opening was not held until now.

"It is a great honour to open the embassy here. Ten months ago our two countries signed the Abraham Accords with a vision of dignity, prosperity and peace for the two peoples," Khajah said at the ceremony Wednesday.

He added: "This is just the beginning. Both countries are innovative nations and we will harness these new approaches for the prosperity of the countries."

Herzog, who took office last week, hailed the embassy opening as an "important step for the entire Middle East."

Last month, Foreign Minister Yair Lapid visited the on the first official trip by an Israeli minister to the Gulf state, where he inaugurated the Israeli embassy in Abu Dhabi and a consulate in Dubai.

The visit came nearly a year after and the announced they would normalise ties, and after months during which planned visits by Israeli officials were stymied by a series of issues, ranging from health crises to diplomatic scuffles.

Israel and the UAE announced in August 2020 that they would normalise diplomatic relations, bringing over a decade of covert ties into the open. Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco later also joined the US-brokered Abraham Accords, and other countries were also rumoured to be in talks.

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The head of the World Trade Organization on Thursday expressed optimism about clinching a long-awaited deal to stop overfishing, but some developing states criticised the draft agreement, with India calling parts of it "unjust".

The virtual conference in Geneva, the first meeting of WTO trade ministers since 2017, aims - after 20 years of talks - to fix rules to curb harmful subsidies that lead to overfishing.

The global trade body has not reached a multilateral deal in years and Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who took office in March, said at the start of the conference that it would be a "litmus test" of the WTO's ability to do so.

"I believe that we are all genuinely committed, but a shift of mindset is necessary for us to bridge the final gaps that continue to separate members," she said at the WTO headquarters in Geneva.

"You can send a powerful signal - one way or the other - about the WTO's credibility as a multilateral negotiating forum."

The eight-page draft deal lists a range of subsidy bans, with some conditions for exemptions for poorer countries that are yet to be finalised by negotiators.

But several ministers expressed reservations - pointing to a gulf between wealthier countries and some developing states that want to build up their fleets with the help of subsidies.

"Clearly, it will lead to capacity constraints for developing countries, while advanced nations will continue to grant subsidies," Indian trade minister Piyush Goyal said on one part of the text. "This is unequal, unfair, unjust."

Pakistan described the draft as "regressive and unbalanced". The African group, seen by many as the main loser from subsidies which allow big industrial fleets to compete in its waters, said that "significant gaps on core issues" remained.

One delegate from a wealthy country described some of the criticisms as "obstructionist". "The major fault line is still special and differential treatment," they told Reuters, asking not to be named.

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai said the draft had "significant shortcomings". "WTO members must ask whether the current negotiating text reflects the best we can do after 20 years," she said.

China - the top subsidiser accounting for about 21% of the $35.4 billion in handouts globally according to a 2019 study https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308597X19303677 - offered one key concession.

Commerce minister Wang Wentao said that exemptions should be "mainly provided for poor and vulnerable artisanal fishers" in poorer countries, indicating China might forego at least some of them for itself.

The European Union was upbeat, saying the draft formed the basis of a potential agreement.

Negotiators got close to a deal at the last WTO ministerial conference in 2017 but the talks collapsed, with some observers blaming developing countries who sought big exemptions.

Any deal needs all 164 parties to approve it by consensus.

(Additional reporting by Philip Blenkinsop in Brussels; Editing by Kevin Liffey and Andrew Heavens)

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Intellect Design Arena Ltd's promoter Arun Jain and his daughter Aarushi Jain have settled with an alleged case after paying Rs 1.76 crore collectively.

Arun paid Rs 1.35 crore towards settlement charges, while Aarushi paid Rs 40.93 lakh, which included Rs 22.31 lakh as settlement amount, Rs 13.68 lakh as disgorgement of alleged ill-gotten gains along with interest of Rs 4.84 lakh, said in a settlement order.

The order comes after the duo had filed separate settlement applications with proposing to settle the case "without admitting or denying the findings of fact and conclusions of law, through a settlement order".

" Pending enforcement proceedings for the alleged defaults ...are settled qua the applicants (Jains)," the order passed on Wednesday noted.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) had conducted an investigation into the activities in the scrip of Intellect Design Arena Ltd (IDAL) for the period February 13, 2018 to June 7, 2018.

IDAL on June 7, 2018 had informed the stock exchanges about its pact with IBM to deliver seamless digital transformation to the world's largest banks with IBM cloud.

Arun Jain, chairman and managing director and promoter of IDAL, was alleged to be in possession of the unpublished price sensitive information (UPSI) regarding the company's pact with IBM, the order noted.

Further, it was alleged that Arun communicated the same to his daughter, Aarushi, and also funded her trades.

Based on the UPSI communicated by her father, Aarushi bought one lakh shares of IDAL, it added.

Pursuant to the application filed by Jains, Sebi's high-powered advisory committee recommended the case for settlement on the payment of Rs 1.76 crore. Following this, they remitted the amount and settled the case with Sebi.

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Shares of private lender declined 3.1 per cent to Rs 212 a piece on the BSE on Thursday after banking regulator Reserve bank of India (RBI) on Wednesday barred global card player Mastercard Asia/Pacific Pte Ltd from onboarding new domestic customers on its network from July 22 over non-compliance with local data storage guidelines.



currently issues credit cards only on Mastercard payment network and has approximately 3 million credit card customers. It is the fifth largest credit card issuer in the country with approximately 5 per cent market share.

The shares, however, recovered after the lender informed the exchanges that it entered into an agreement with Visa Worldwide Pte. Limited last on Wednesday to issue credit cards enabled on the Visa payment network.



" expects to start issuance of credit cards on the Visa payment network post the technology integration which is expected to take 8 to 10 weeks,' it added. READ HERE

At 10:19 AM, the stock was quotng 0.8 per cent lower at Rs 217 apiece as against a 0.22 per cent rise in the benchmark S&P BSE Sensex.

That said, RBL Bank expects its current run rate of nearly 100,000 new credit card issuances per month to be potentially impacted till such time that there is clarity from the regulator on issuing new credit cards on the Mastercard network or till the technical integration with Visa is complete.

On an aggregate basis, there were over 900 million debit cards in India as on May 31, 2021, of which over 400 million were issued by Mastercard, banking industry sources indicate. Credit card outstanding as on May 31, 2021, was over 62 million, latest data released by RBI showed. Credit cards are mostly issued with Mastercard and Visa  the formers main competitor globally and in India  though public sector banks  who are not significant players in the credit card market  also issue home grown Rupay card of National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
Nifty futures on Singapore Exchange traded 22 points higher at 15,885 around 8.15 am, indicating a posiive start for the benchmark indices on Thursday.

Here are the top stocks to track in today's session:

Earnings Today: A total of 22 companies, including Wipro, Angel Broking, Tata Elxsi, L&T Infotech and Cyient are slated to post their quarterly numbers today.

Analysts believe Wipro's net profit could jump 14-19 per cent YoY in Q1FY22 on 17-19 per cent growth in topline. A contraction in EBIT (earnings before interest and tax) margins sequentially is a given, which in turn would drive PAT sequentially, they said. READ MORE

Infosys: The IT major may have missed Streets net profit expectations for the quarter ended June 2021, but raised its revenue growth guidance for FY22 to 14-16 per cent from an earlier estimate of 12-14 per cent. Infosys, meanwhile, reported a consolidated net profit of Rs 5,195 crore, up 22.7 per cent year-on-year (YoY) and 2.3 per cent sequentially. READ MORE

Adani Transmission: The company has got shareholders' nod to raise up to Rs 2,500 crore in one or more tranches through the issuance of equity shares, securities and debentures.

LTTS: L&T Technology Services (LTTS) reported an 84 per cent YoY jump in its June quarter net at Rs 216.2 crore, largely on widening margins. Its overall revenue increased by 19.42 per cent YoY to Rs 1,562.6 crore for the reporting quarter.

Rossari Biotech: ICRA has assigned a long-term rating of AA- (stable) to Rossari Biotech's fund-based working capital facilities and unallocated limit facilities. A short-term rating of A1+ has been assigned to its non-fund based limit facilities.

Marico: Home-grown FMCG firm has acquired 60 per cent stake in Apcos Naturals, the owner of Ayurvedic beauty brand Just Herbs'. The stake will be acquired over a period of two years through primary infusion and secondary buy-outs, a joint statement said without disclosing the deal size.

5Paisa Capital: The company reported Q1 profit after tax at Rs 7.2 crore, up 156 per cent YoY while the revenue jumped 44 per cent YoY to Rs 60.9 crore.

Tata Consultancy Services: The company announced plans to expand its operations in Arizona, by investing over $300 million by 2026 and hiring more than 220 employees by 2023.

Company: Rakesh Radheshyam Jhunjhunwala reduced stake in the company to 3.72 per cent in the June quarter from 3.97 per cent earlier.

Craftsman Automation: The company has terminated joint venture agreements signed in 2007 with Mitsubishi Corporation, Tokyo, MC Machinery Systems, USA, Mitsubishi Corporation India and Mitsubishi Corporation Technos, Japan. The joint venture was for selling electric discharge machines and laser cutting machines. Craftsman said the termination was to focus on the increasing needs of the primary business and it wont have any impact on the company.

Spandana Sphoorty Financial: Crisil assigned the companys proposed long term bank loan facility of Rs 3,500 crore a rating of A (stable).

Aptech: Ace investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala, his wife Rekha Jhunjhunwala, and eight other individuals on Wednesday settled a case related to insider trading in the shares of Aptech Ltd after paying more than Rs 37 crore.

SeQuent Scientific: The company received approval from EUGMP for its tablets dosage manufacturing line in Turkey. The approval was further complimented by the successful renewal of EUGMP license for 8 other manufacturing lines for various dosage forms including beta-lactam, non-beta lactam, terminal sterilization, mastitis, powder beta-lactam, aerosol, pesticide, and solids in Turkey.
The equity benchmark indices further extended gains and attained record high levels in early afternoon trade. The Nifty hit a record high of 15,946.65 and the Sensex hit a record high of 53,253.20 in early afternoon trade. IT, banks and financial stocks were in demand.

At 12:20 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, jumped 335.29 points or 0.63% at 53,239.34. The Nifty 50 index gained 89.25 points or 0.56% at 15,943.20.

In the broader market, the S&P BSE Mid-Cap index added 0.30% while the S&P BSE Small-Cap index rose 0.47%.

The market breadth was positive. On the BSE, 1,692 shares rose and 1,382 shares fell. A total of 124 shares were unchanged.

Zomato IPO:

The initial public offer of online food delivery platform Zomato was subscribed 1.26 times by 12:40 IST. The issue received bids for 90,71,61,255 shares compared with 71,92,33,522 shares on offer. The IPO opened for bidding today (14 July) and it will close on Friday (16 July). The price band of the IPO is fixed at Rs 72-76 per share of the face value of Rs 1 each.

The IPO comprises a fresh issue of equity shares worth Rs 9,000 crore and an offer for sale (OFS) worth Rs 375 crore by existing investor, Info Edge (India).

Ahead of the IPO, the online food delivery and restaurant discovery platform raised Rs 4,197 crore from 186 anchor investors Tuesday (13 July). The company allotted 55.22 crore equity shares to anchor investors for Rs 76 per equity share.

Coronavirus Update:

Total COVID-19 confirmed cases worldwide stood at 18,83,61,244 with 40,58,122 deaths. India reported 4,32,041 active cases of COVID-19 infection and 4,11,989 deaths while 3,01,43,850 patients have been discharged, according to the data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.

India has reported 41,806 new COVID-19 cases, 39,130 recoveries and 581 deaths in the last 24 hours, the bulletin released by the Union health ministry on Thursday stated. Active caseload stands at 4,32,041 and the virus death toll at 4,11,989 at present.

Derivatives:

The NSE's India VIX, a gauge of market's expectation of volatility over the near term, advanced 2.36% to 12.8875. The Nifty 29 July 2021 futures were trading at 15,946, at a premium of 2.80 points as compared with the spot at 15,943.20.

The Nifty option chain for 29 July 2021 expiry showed maximum Call OI of 27.50 lakh contracts at the 16,000 strike price. Maximum Put OI of 32.50 lakh contracts was seen at 15,000 strike price.

Buzzing Index:

The Nifty Financial Services index was up 0.77% to 16,952.50. HDFC Asset Management Company (up 2.80%), REC (up 2.70%), Power Finance Corporation (PFC) (up 2.58%), Shriram Transport Finance Company (up 1.77%) and HDFC Bank (up 1.63%) advanced.

Stocks in Spotlight:

SeQuent Scientific spurted 6.22% after the animal-based pharmaceutical major announced the European Union Good Manufacturing Practices (EUGMP) approval of its tablets dosage manufacturing line in Turkey. The approval was further complimented by the successful renewal of EUGMP license for 8 other manufacturing lines for various dosage forms including beta-lactam, non-beta lactam, terminal sterilization, mastitis, powder beta-lactam, aerosol, pesticide, and solids in Turkey. In addition to the EUGMP, the manufacturing lines in Turkey also hold GMP certificates from Turkish, Saudi, Ethiopian and Sudanese authorities. With these approvals, Alivira now has multiple EUGMP approved facilities globally, allowing it to better serve the needs of its customers in the regulated markets of Europe, and access to alternative manufacturing sites to ensure supply of high-quality products.

Marico gained 0.15%. The company announced a strategic investment in Apcos Naturals with an acquisition of 60% equity stake for an undisclosed consideration. Marico will acquire 52.4% of the total paid-up share capital by 31 July 2021 and accordingly Apcos Naturals shall become a subsidiary of the company. The company will acquire the balance stake of 7.6% by 31 March 2023 as per the conditions set out in the shareholders agreement signed between the parties. Apcos Naturals is into beauty & personal care segment under the brand name Just Herbs and is a full stack Direct to Consumer Ayurvedic beauty brand. The firm recorded a turnover of Rs 17.5 crore in FY2020-21.

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Hatsun Agro Product's standalone net profit rose 3.96% to Rs 58.33 crore on 20.75% increase in net sales to Rs 1,544.71 crore in Q1 June 2021 over Q1 June 2020.

Profit before tax skid 9.93% to Rs 74.61 crore in Q1 FY21 as against Rs 82.84 crore in Q1 FY20. The Q1 earnings was declared after trading hours yesterday, 14 July 2021.

Meanwhile, the board has declared an interim dividend of Rs 6 per equity share (i.e. 600%) on the fully paid up equity shares of the face value of Re 1 per share. The company has fixed 23 July 2021 as record date towards payment of interim dividend.

The company's board has approved the proposal for raising of funds, through private placement of equity shares by way of Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP), not exceeding Rs 700 crore. It also approved increasing the borrowing limit to Rs 1,800 crore from the existing Rs 1,500 crore, subject to the approval of the members at their ensuing Annual General Meeting (AGM).

The company said its milk and milk products plant in Solapur, Maharashtra has been installed with a capacity of 6 lakh litres per day (LLPD) and already started commercial production from the last week of January 2021. Further, the firm is in the process of increasing the capacity by 50,000 liters per day (LPD) to produce expansion is likely to be completed by end of September 2021.

The milk products plant in Tamil Nadu has installed manufacturing facilities for paneer with a capacity of 5 million tonnes (MT) per day and commenced commercial production from end of January 2021. In the newly commissioned Milk manufacturing plant with a milk handling capacity of 3.5 LLPD, the commercial production of milk has commenced from 12 July 2021. Further, Hatsun Agro Product is now in the process of setting up a curd processing unit with a capacity of 1 LLPD which is likely to commence the commercial production by the end of March 2022.

The ice cream plant in Telangana is engaged in the ongoing construction activities and the plant with a capacity of about 1 kg per day is expected to be commissioned by the end of November 2021. The estimated capex is about Rs 311 crore.

The company is in the process of identifying required land to set up a dairy plant in the Northern part of Andhra Pradesh.

The solar power generation through Swelect Sun Energy, Tamil Nadu is under progress and the company is expected to start consuming solar power through this project to the extent of about 2.25 crore units annually and this is expected to be completed by end of August 2021.

Hatsun Agro Product is a leading private sector dairy player in India. Its products are exported to 38 countries around the world.

Shares of Hatsun Agro Product declined 2.32% to Rs 973.20 on BSE. It traded in the range of 965.20 and 999 during the day.

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Infosys' consolidated net profit grew 2.3% to Rs 5,195 crore on 6% increase in revenue to Rs 27,896 crore in Q1 June 2021 over Q4 March 2021. On a year-on-year basis, net profit rose 22.7% and revenue increased 17.9% in Q1 June 2021. The Q1 result was declared after trading hours yesterday, 14 July 2021.

The IT major's operating profit stood at Rs 6,603 crore in Q1 June 2021, rising 2.5% quarter-on-quarter (Q-o-Q) and increasing 23.1% year-on-year (Y-o-Y). Operating margin for the quarter was robust at 23.7%, an increase of 1% YoY and decline of 0.8% QoQ.

TCS on Wednesday announced plans to expand its operations in Arizona, investing more than $300 million by 2026 and hiring more than 220 employees by 2023. TCS will also continue to expand the reach of its STEM and Computer Science education programs in Arizona by increasing teacher training and online content for students over the next two years. The IT major said the investment plan is to meet the digital transformation needs of its customers.

L&T Technology Services' net income rose 11.1% to Rs 216.20 crore on 5.4% rise in revenue to Rs 1518.40 crore in Q1 June 2021 over Q4 March 2021.

Marico has entered into Share Subscription Agreement and Shareholders agreement with Apcos Naturals Private Limited, the company that owns the brand 'Just Herbs'('Apcos Naturals') and a Share Purchase Agreement with its existing promoters and shareholders, to make a strategic investment in Apcos Naturals by acquiring / subscribing 60 % of the total paid-up share capital in the form of equity shares and compulsorily convertible preference shares (CCPS) of Apcos Naturals.

SeQuent Scientific announced the EUGMP approval of its tablets dosage manufacturing line in Turkey.

Avantel informed that the company has received an order for an amount $19,80,000 (USD. Nineteen Lakh Eighty Thousand only) from Lockheed Martin Corporation for supply of Satcom Equipment.

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Marico rose 2.14% to Rs 544.25 after the company announced a strategic investment in Apcos Naturals with an acquisition of 60% equity stake for an undisclosed consideration.

Marico will acquire 52.4% of the total paid-up share capital by 31 July 2021 and accordingly Apcos Naturals shall become a subsidiary of the company. The company will acquire the balance stake of 7.6% by 31 March 2023 as per the conditions set out in the shareholders agreement signed between the parties.

Apcos Naturals is into beauty & personal care segment under the brand name Just Herbs and is a full stack Direct to Consumer Ayurvedic beauty brand. The firm recorded a turnover of Rs 17.5 crore in FY2020-21.

The investment is in line with Marico's strategy to accelerate its digital transformation journey through building scalable digital-first brands, either organically or inorganically, as well as to premiumise its play in personal care.

Saugata Gupta, MD and CEO, Marico, said, Just Herbs presents an exciting and differentiated opportunity to have a meaningful play in Ayurveda-led beauty categories. The brand has built a healthy consumer franchise on the back of the quality and efficacy of its offerings.

The digital presence it has built in a short span of time is impressive and we strongly believe in its potential to reach critical mass over the next couple of years. This investment is another step towards our aspiration to build a portfolio of at least three Rs 100-crore plus digital brands within the next three years.

Marico is one of India's leading consumer products companies in the global beauty and wellness space.

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Quess Corp fell 1.65% to Rs 745.80 on BSE, extending losses for the fourth consecutive session.

Shares of Quess Corp has fallen 8.40% in four trading sessions from a recent closing high of Rs 814.25 hit on 9 July 2021.

The selling was triggered after the company on 14 July 2021, informed that the Income Tax Department conducted a survey at the company's registered office, and subsidiary, Terrier Security Services, between 8 July 2021 to 10 July 2021.

The company said it has extended full cooperation to the IT department, including providing complete information in a timely manner, and have not received any claims to date. "The key focus of the survey appears to have been to verify deductions we have previously claimed u/s 80JJAA of Income Tax Act, 1961, a section which incentivises new employment generation," it said.

The company said it has over 363,000 employees on its rolls. The firm said it observes all auditing and accounting requirements and continue to be a 100% compliant tax payer. The company paid a total of Rs 2,900 crore in tax and statutory contributions to the government in FY21, which represents about 12 times the company's normalized profit for the year, or 26% of its revenue.

"Our claims u/s 80JJAA are entirely in line with the letter, spirit and intent of the law, and aligned with prevailing industry practices. We further refute any allegations of 'concealment' of income. The queries raised to date by the Income Tax department are interpretational in nature. While we await further communication, will continue to cooperate with them even as we stand committed to vigorously defending our interpretation using all recourse available to us," it added.

On a consolidated basis, Quess Corp posted a net loss of Rs 58 crore in Q4 FY21, lower than net loss of Rs 630 crore in Q4 FY20. Net sales rose 0.3% to Rs 3,004 crore in Q4 FY21 as against Rs 2,994.59 crore in Q4 FY20.

Quess Corp is India's leading business services provider. It provides a host of technology enabled staffing and managed outsourcing services across processes such as sales & marketing, customer care, after sales service, back office operations, manufacturing, facilities and security management, HR & F&A operations, IT & mobility services etc.

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Rattanindia Enterprises hit an upper circuit of 5% at Rs 50.30 after the company said its electric bikes sold out within minutes of opening online sales.

Previously RattanIndia's Revolt Motors, India's market leader in electric bikes, had opened sales on 18 June with the company having to close the booking in 2 hours.

"This time the bookings were closed out within minutes of launching sales on Revolt website," the company said in a statement on Thursday (15 July).

These sales were for its Al-enabled RV400 bikes, which has a range of upto 150 Kms on a single charge of its 3.24Kwh Lithium-lon battery that can churn out a top speed of 85km/h.

The running cost of Revolt electric bikes is Rs 9 per 100 kms compared to petrol bikes which cost Rs 250 per 100 kms, the company highlighted.

The company further said that various state governments are giving significant incentives to customers buying electric bikes. For example Maharashtra is giving incentives of more than Rs 25,000 per bike, Gujarat government gives incentives of Rs. 20,000 per bike, Delhi government gives direct incentive of about Rs 16,200 per bike for Revolt customers. Similarly, Meghalaya has incentive of Rs 32,000 per bike for Revolt and Bihar has also proposed a similar amount as incentive. In addition states of Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Delhi have also waived off the road tax for EV two wheelers.

Anjali Rattan, Business Chairman, Rattanindia Enterprises said Revolt bikes being sold out within minutes is strong testimony of the product quality of Revolt. With petrol prices reaching upwards of Rs. 100 in the country, it is hard for customers to miss huge savings that Revolt bikes bring.

Rahul Sharma, MD of Revolt Motors said, Another round of blockbuster sales by Revolt clearly shows that Indian customers are quick to adopt superior products. We are working round the clock to increase our production capacities even further to cater to this huge demand.

RattanIndia Enterprises is the flagship company of Rattanindia Group for its new age growth businesses. The company has forayed into electric mobility space through Revolt Motors to democratize clean commute using next-gen mobility solutions. The company is completely focused on providing world class electric mobility products which are affordable and accessible to every Indian.

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RattanIndia's Revolt Motors witnessed another round of massive electrifying sales with its electric bikes sold out within minutes of opening online sales. Previously Revolt had opened sales on 18 June with the company having to close the booking in 2 hours. This time the bookings were closed out within minutes of launching sales on Revolt website. These sales come in backdrop of petrol prices reaching more than Rs. 100 in the country. With running cost of Revolt electric bikes being Rs. 9 per 100 kms compared to petrol bikes which cost Rs. 250 per 100 kms, the cost saving for Revolt customers is hard to miss.

These sales were for its state of the art Al enabled RV400 bikes, which beats comparable petrol engine bikes on almost all comparables. The RV400 has a range of upto 150 Kms on a single charge of its 3.24Kwh Lithium-lon battery that can churn out a top speed of 85km/h.

The bike can be operated through MyRevolt App, which offers connectivity features such as bike locator/Geo fencing, customised sounds that you can change with just a tap on the screen, complete bike diagnostics, battery status, historical data on your rides and KMs done. These bikes feature three riding modes - Eco, Normal and Sport each suiting to the riding style and needs of the driver. Both RV400 and RV300 come with USD forks up-front and a fully-adjustable monoshock at the rear to give an unparalleled riding experience.

With falling battery prices, EV bikes prices are already comparable to their petrol counterparts. In addition various state governments are giving significant incentives to customers buying electric bikes. For example Maharashtra is giving incentives of more than Rs. 25,000 per bike, Gujarat Govt. gives incentives of Rs. 20,000 per bike, Delhi Government gives direct incentive of about Rs. 16,200 per bike for Revolt customers. Similarly, Meghalaya has incentive of Rs. 32,000 per bike for Revolt and Bihar has also proposed a similar amount as incentive. In addition states of Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Delhi have also waived off the road tax for EV two wheelers.

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RBL Bank fell 1.51% to Rs 215.5 after the Reserve Bank of India barred Mastercard from onboarding any new customers.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed restrictions yesterday on Mastercard Asia/Pacific (Mastercard) from on-boarding new domestic customers (debit, credit or prepaid) onto its card network from 22 July 2021.

RBL Bank currently issues credit cards on the Mastercard network only. The debit and prepaid cards issued by the bank are already enabled on other payment networks in addition to the Mastercard network.

As of date RBL Bank has approximately 3 million credit card customers and is the fifth largest credit card issuer in the country with approximately 5% market share.

Separately, RBL Bank has entered into an agreement with Visa Worldwide ("Visa") yesterday to issue credit cards enabled on the Visa payment network. RBL Bank expects to start issuance of credit cards on the Visa payment network post the technology integration which is expected to take 8 to 10 weeks.

In the interim, RBL said its current run rate of approximately 100,000 new credit card issuances per month could potentially be impacted till such time that there is clarity from the regulator on issuing new credit cards on the Mastercard network or till the technical integration with Visa is complete.

In a notification issued on Wednesday evening, RBI said, "The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has today imposed restrictions on Mastercard Asia / Pacific Pte. Ltd. (Mastercard) from onboarding new domestic customers (debit, credit or prepaid) onto its card network from July 22, 2021. Notwithstanding lapse of considerable time and adequate opportunities being given, the entity has been found to be non-compliant with the directions on Storage of Payment System Data.

RBL Bank is a private sector bank. The bank added 26 branches during Q4 FY21 taking total number of branches to 429 as at 31 March 2021. In addition, the bank also has 1,365 business correspondent branches, of which 260 are banking outlets.

The bank reported 34.1% drop in net profit to Rs 75.34 crore on 3.6% decline in total income to Rs 2,610.83 crore in Q4 FY21 over Q4 FY20.

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Comprising a large ecosystem of its partners with deep expertise in vocational education

TCS iON, a strategic unit of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has brought together an ecosystem of academia, corporates, publishers, and original equipment manufacturers as part of its innovative phygital model for vocational education, on the occasion of World Youth Skills Day. This ecosystem will drive enhanced learning content, experiences and outcomes for learners looking to enhance their skills.

TCS iON has developed a large ecosystem of players with deep expertise in vocational education including Tata STRIVE, Nettur Technical Training Foundation (NTTF), and Apollo Med Skills. It also includes the Automotive Skill Development Council (ASDC), which recently expanded its engagement with TCS iON to develop programs for the automotive sector.

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Amid the ongoing rift between the parties of the Maha Vikas Anghadi (MVA) government, Maharashtra chief on Wednesday said that is the only party left against the and his party shall form the government after the 2024 general elections.

" is the only option left in the country, against the In 2024, under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi, the Congress government will be formed in the country," said Patole while speaking to reporters yesterday.

Stating that Congress is one of the major parties in Maharashtra, Patole said that the party is receiving huge support from the people and their trust in the party is growing. He further said that the party's strength is increasing.

The Maharashtra Congress chief said, "We are not pressurising anyone, we are just working towards making our party number one in the state. Congress is one of the major parties in Maharashtra. It is receiving huge support from the people. People are coming forward to identify themselves with the party. People's trust in the party is growing. The party's strength is increasing day by day."

Reacting to NCP chief Sharad Pawar calling Patole a small person, he said, "Yes, I am a small person, Pawar Sahib is our eldest leader and he loves me a lot and this love will always be there."

Speaking about the meeting of Congress leaders with Sharad Pawar, Patole said, "Our in-charge and prominent leader Ashok Chavan had gone for the meeting. He raised the issue of reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) which the has reduced. The government is fighting for the same in the court. OBC reservation has many problems as the Central government is not providing the data and the Maharashtra government's commission will take time. That is why our leaders had gone to meet Pawar saheb. Our leaders had told Pawar ji that Congress will fight the battle of OBCs on the streets in the coming days and urged the allies to join us.

"We were cheated in 2014. We might have to contest elections alone. So we are preparing in advance," he added.

Congress leaders on Wednesday met Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar to assure him that Congress chief Nana Patole's statements on the MVA alliance would not be repeated.

NCP sources informed that a few MVA leaders were angry with recent statements made by Patole about his party's 'growing influence in Maharashtra'.

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Ashok Chavan, state party in-charge HK Patil and Revenue Minister Balasaheb Thorat met Pawar at his residence in Silver Oak.

Chavan and Patil and assured that the MVA government was stable and the Congress chief's statements had been taken out of context.

Patole had also alleged that his phone was being tapped by the Maharashtra government and that 'some people' were stabbing Congress in the back.

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As of March 31, 2021, when released the iOs 14.5 beta update to its operating system, Siri no longer defaults to a female voice when using American English. Users must now choose between two male and two female voices when enabling the voice assistant. This move could be interpreted as a response to the backlash against the gender bias embodied by Siri

But how meaningful is this change really?

Siri has been criticized as embodying several facets of gender bias in artificial intelligence. Digital sociologists Yolande Strengers and Jenny Kennedy argue that Siri, along with other voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home, have been developed in order to carry out wifework  domestic duties that have traditionally fallen on (human) wives.

Siri was originally only voiced as female and programmed to not only perform wifely duties such as checking the weather or setting a morning alarm, but also to respond flirtatiously. The use of sexualized phrases by Siri has been extensively documented by hundreds of YouTube videos with titles such as Things You Should NEVER Ask SIRI (which has more than 18 million views).

Dated gender references

has been criticized as promoting a sexualized and stereotypical image of women that negatively harms gender norms. A 2019 investigation by The Guardian reveals that wrote internal guidelines in 2018 asking developers to have Siri deflect mentions of and other sensitive topics. Its not clear what the guidelines were for hard-coding flirty comebacks.

The language used by Siri was (and still is) a combination of an already stereotypical language model, including jokes hard coded by developers. A 2016 analysis of popular language models used by software companies noted that word associations were highly stereotypical. In the study, terms such as philosopher and captain were gendered male, while the opposite was true for terms such as homemaker.

Legal scholar Celine Castets-Renard and I have been studying language models used by Google Translate and Microsoft Bing that have revealed similar issues. We input gender-neutral phrases in romanized Mandarin into the translation platforms, forcing the translation algorithms to select the gender in English and French. Without exception, the Google algorithm selected male and female pronouns along stereotypical gender lines. The Microsoft algorithm, conversely, exclusively selected male pronouns.

The use of models such as these in Siris algorithm might explain why, when you type in any corporate title (chief executive officer, chief financial officer, etc.), a male emoji would be proposed. While this has since been addressed  likely due to criticism  in the latest iOS, if Siri is asked to retrieve a photo of a captain or a programmer, the images served up are still a series of men.

Friendly and flirty

The idea of the perfectly flirtatious virtual assistant inspired Spike Jonzes 2013 movie Her, in which the male protagonist falls in love with his virtual assistant. But its hard to imagine how biased language models could cause a virtual assistant to flirt with users.

This seems likely to have been intentional.

In response to these criticisms, Apple progressively removed some of the more flagrant traits, and apparently hard coded away some of the more offensive responses to user questions. This was done without making too many waves. However, the record of YouTube videos shows Siri becoming progressively less gendered.

One of the last remaining criticisms was that Siri had a female voice, which remained the default even though a male voice was also provided as an option since its 2011 launch. Now, users must decide for themselves if they want a female or a male voice.

Users dont know, however, the language model that the virtual assistant is trained on, or whether there are still legacies of flirty Siri left in the code.

Bias is more than voice-deep

Companies like Apple have a huge responsibility in shaping societal norms. A 2020 National Public Media report revealed that during the pandemic, the number of Americans using virtual assistants increased from 46 to 52 per cent, and this trend will only continue.

Whats more, many people interact with virtual assistants openly in their home, which means that biased AIs frequently interact with children and can skew their own perception of human gender relations.

Removing the default female voice in Siri is important for in that it reduces the immediate association of Siri with women. On the other hand, there is also the possibility of using a gender-neutral voice, such as the one released in 2019 by a group led by Copenhagen Pride.

Changing Siris voice doesnt address issues related to biased language models, which dont need a female voice to be used. It also doesnt address hiring bias in the company, where women only make up 26 per cent of leadership roles in research and development.

If Apple is going to continue quietly removing gender bias from Siri, there is still quite a bit of work to do. Rather than making small and gradual changes, Apple should take the issue of gender discrimination head on and distinguish itself as a leader.

Allowing large portions of the population to interact with biased AI threatens to reverse recent advances in gender norms. Making Siri and other virtual assistants completely bias-free should therefore be an immediate priority for Apple and the other software giants.

Curtis Hendricks, Data Science Consultant, contributed to the authorship of this article.

Eleonore Fournier-Tombs, Adjunct Professor, Accountable AI, LUniversite dOttawa/University of Ottawa

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
India announced the launch of its new cloud region in Delhi NCR to further serve customers and the public sector in India and across Asia-Pacific. Designed to enable both Indian and global companies alike to build highly accessible applications for their customers, the Delhi NCR region is the second region in India and 10th in the Asia Pacific.

Our commitment to India is for India, by India, said Thomas Kurian, CEO, Because of this, we are not only seeing success in America, Europe but also Asia-pacific and we are seeing growth in the number of leading companies around the world, he said.

With this new region, Google Cloud customers operating in India will benefit from low latency and high performance of their cloud-based workloads and data. Designed for high availability, the region opens with three availability zones to protect against service disruptions, and offers a portfolio of key products. These include Compute Engine, App Engine, Google Kubernetes Engine, Cloud Bigtable, Cloud Spanner, and BigQuery.

As we slowly emerge from the crisis of the past 18 months, we are turning our focus to helping Indian businesses accelerate their digital transformation, deepening our commitment to Indias digitisation and economic recovery, said Bikram Singh Bedi, managing director, Google Cloud India. Weve been fortunate to partner with and serve people, companies, and government institutions around the world.

Kurian said Google Cloud has significantly expanded the team in India. Bikram (Bedi) and his team look at the market and the customer services, but we've also significantly expanded our engineering in Bengaluru and Hyderabad and development centers, said Kurian.

Analysts said the move is part of Googles strategy for ramping up its capabilities and competing with global rivals, such as Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, and Alibaba, to dominate cloud computing services.

Moreover, the Delhi NCR region unblocks revenue for multi-region and disaster recovery use cases for customers. It creates a differentiated value proposition for companies in regulated industries with far disaster recovery solutions. Customers will have the ability to establish private connections via Interconnect to utilize the Delhi NCR region with existing partners.

The Google Cloud region in Delhi NCR will help our customers adapt to new requirements, new opportunities and new ways of working, said Bedi.

Delhi NCR region has joined the existing 25 Google Cloud regions connected via Googles high-performance network. It would help customers better serve their users throughout the globe. Google said they will benefit from improved business continuity planning with the distributed, secure infrastructure needed to meet IT and business requirements for disaster recovery while maintaining data sovereignty.

HDFC Bank is harnessing technology platforms to both run and build the bank. As it progresses to be future-ready, the objective is to invest in future technologies that can give it scale, efficiency, and resiliency.

Towards this, the Google Cloud region in Delhi NCR will enable us to enhance our resiliency and help us in building an active-active design framework for our new generation applications on the cloud," said Ramesh Lakshminarayanan, CIO, HDFC Bank.

Google said the Cloud region in Delhi NCR offers new technology and tools that can be a catalyst for this change.

Mohit Saxena, co-founder and Group CTO of mobile advertising network InMobi, said that with the arrival of the Google Cloud Delhi NCR region, InMobi Group sees the opportunity to continue closing the gap between our users and products. Its company Glance, especially, has been serving AI-powered personalized content to over 120 million active users.

We cant wait to continue giving our users truly meaningful experiences that are speedy, scale well, and are relevant to them, by expanding the use of our current tools working on Google Cloud with the opening of a new region, said Saxena.

Neeraj Singh, co-founder, and chief technology officer at investment platform Groww, said, the Google Cloud provides great technology that enables the firm to build and scale infrastructure to millions of users. The new Google Cloud region in Delhi NCR will continue to help more businesses and startups in India access powerful cloud-based infrastructure, products, and services, said Singh.

Kurian of Google Cloud said when organisations move data to the cloud, they need the best cybersecurity tools to protect their data, applications, and users.

We offer a broad range of cybersecurity protection, said Kurian. There are two important things in what we are doing - we protect users' applications and data in the Google Cloud. So we have tools like encryption, confidential computing, network security etc.

Google has a lot of experience in artificial intelligence and machine learning. The firm has made specific solutions for particular industries. These include customers such as Indiamart, Dr. Reddy's laboratory and financial services firm Max life is a customer. They are using machine learning to improve the transformation of an organization's processes and make them more efficient.

Google Cloud has also worked with vehicle maker TVS, which has built a digital ecosystem for several different automotive retailers and garages. These tools help them provide better knowledge and understanding as well as analytics and intelligence to all the people in their digital ecosystem. The firm is also helping organizations to collaborate on documents and drives and put them in a unified platform called Google Workspace.

It is not just designed for office workers but also first-line workers. Many hospitals use this technology to deliver better patient care, said Kurian.

Kurian said the Google Cloud is investing in education, training and bringing its innovative culture as Google to India.

We are super encouraged with the entrepreneurship and creativity despite the last year being so challenging for everybody, we've seen the resilience of India, said Kurian. It is a great privilege for us to support larger organizations, government agencies but also, the person who is starting a company in India, hoping that they can use the same technology that powers Google's products.
By Sankalp Phartiyal

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - Alphabet Inc's is ramping up cloud in India with a second cluster of data centres in and around capital New Delhi to meet increasing customer demands in a key growth market, senior company executives said.

The cloud region in Delhi and its outskirts is the U.S. tech giant's second such piece of in the country and the tenth in the Asia Pacific.

"We have seen enormous growth in demand for in India so expanding our footprint in a new cloud region gives us the ability to offer more capacity for growth over many years," Thomas Kurian, CEO at Google Cloud, told a news conference this week ahead of a formal announcement on Thursday. "It's a large commitment from us in capital and investment and it's designed to allow us to capture the opportunity that we see around growth."

The new infrastructure will help provide solutions for problems such as disaster recovery within India and ensure low latency for many state-run enterprises in and around Delhi, Kurian added.

Google did not say how much it had invested to set up the new cloud facilities.

India's fledgling startup economy has also helped drive and accelerate the use of cloud services, said Bikram Singh Bedi, managing director at Google Cloud's India unit.

Google Cloud counts home-grown social network ShareChat, online travel firm Cleartrip and private sector lender HDFC Bank among its India customers.

Google has bet big on India. Last year, it invested $4.5 billion in Jio Platforms, the digital unit of oil-to-telecoms conglomerate Reliance Industries, from a so-called $10 billion digitisation fund targeted for the country.

In June, Google said it was forging a partnership with Jio to help India's biggest wireless carrier with tech solutions for enterprise and consumer offerings ahead of the launch of 5G services.

(Reporting by Sankalp Phartiyal. Editing by Gerry Doyle)

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In a bid to help businesses of all sizes boost productivity in the hybrid work scenario, Microsoft on Wednesday announced a new Cloud service called Windows 365 that will run in Microsoft Cloud and allow customers to set up a Cloud PC with ease.

Windows 365 is not a new operating system but a new way to experience either Windows 10 or Windows 11 in a virtual environment, that streams the full Windows experience to any device. Essentially, Windows 365 allows customers to fuse together the best of the cloud and the device itself.

Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella said that with Windows 365, the company is creating a new category: the Cloud PC.

"Just like applications were brought to the cloud with SaaS, we are now bringing the operating system to the cloud, providing organisations with greater flexibility and a secure way to empower their workforce to be more productive and connected, regardless of location," Nadella said during the 'Microsoft Inspire 2021' event.

Windows 365 will be generally available to businesses of all sizes starting on August 2.

Windows 365 is not a replacement for Azure Virtual Desktop or AVD which is the starting point that the company uses to build Windows 365.

While in AVD, you pay on a consumption basis, in Windows 365, you will pay per user per month per PC or per Cloud PC.

Jared Spataro, corporate vice president, said that hybrid work has fundamentally changed the role of technology in organisations in the pandemic.

"Cloud PC is an exciting, new category of hybrid personal computing that turns any device into a personalised, productive, and secure digital workspace," he said.

With instant-on boot to their personal Cloud PC, users can stream all their applications, tools, data, and settings from the cloud across any device.

Windows 365 provides the full PC experience in the cloud. The cloud also provides versatility in processing power and storage, enabling IT to scale up or down, based on their needs.

With a choice of either Windows 10 or Windows 11 (once it is generally available later in 2021), organisations can choose the Cloud PC that works for them with per-user per-month pricing, the company informed.

With Windows 365 optimised for the endpoint, IT can easily procure, deploy, and manage Cloud PCs for their organisation just like they manage physical PCs through Microsoft Endpoint Manager.

Small and mid-size businesses can purchase Windows 365 directly or through a cloud service provider, and set-up their organisation with Cloud PCs with just a few clicks.

Microsoft said that Windows 365 is secure by design, leveraging the power of the cloud and the principles of Zero Trust.

"Information is secured and stored in the cloud, not on the device. Always up to date and building on the strength of rich Microsoft security capabilities and baselines, Windows 365 simplifies security and recommends the best security settings for the environment at hand," the company noted.

--IANS

na/

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
This acquisition is designed to expand upon BLEND360s global technology and analytics offering and to meet the international needs of its client base.
In todays Caixin energy news wrap: Two of Chinas largest port operators step up cooperation; Sinopec builds its first onshore wind power project; commodity price rises drive up Chinas import costs; and the countrys long-awaited national carbon market debuts soon.

China pays more for imported commodities on surging prices

China paid 2,888.5 yuan ($446.50) on average for each ton of imported crude oil during the first half, 20.5% more than a year earlier, data from the General Administration of Customs showed. The average cost of imported iron ore was 1,075.8 yuan per ton, an increase of 67.3%. In response, the State Council, Chinas cabinet, recently deployed comprehensive measures to stabilize market prices and take some of the pressure off smaller companies, the administration said.

China sets July launch for national carbon emissions trading

China plans to launch its national carbon emissions trading program in July to help meet the countrys ambitious climate goals, the environmental ministry said Wednesday. The program will initially involve more than 2,200 power plants across the country, which annually produce around 4 billion tons of carbon dioxide  the chief greenhouse gas contributing to global warming. The launch will make China the worlds largest carbon emissions trading market by volume.

Leading port operators in closer equity tie-up

Two of Chinas largest port operators are strengthening their partnership with equity investments in each other. Ningbo Zhoushan Port Co. Ltd. (601018.SH) plans to sell 3.6 million shares in a private placement to Merchants Port Group Co. Ltd. (001872.SZ), raising 14.4 billion yuan ($2.23 billion), Ningbo Port said Tuesday. Merchants Port will become the second-largest shareholder of Ningbo Port. At the same time, Merchants Port will sell 577 million shares privately to Zhejiang Provincial Seaport Investment & Operation Group for 11.1 billion yuan, Merchants Port said in a separate statement. Zhejiang Provincial, the controlling shareholder of Ningbo Port, will become the second-largest shareholder of Merchants Port.

Sinopec starts construction of its first onshore wind power project

China Petroleum & Chemical Corp. (Sinopec) started construction of its first onshore wind power project in Shaanxi. Built by Sinopec Star Co. Ltd., the project will have total installed capacity of 20 megawatts. The project is expected to be connected to the power grid for operation by Oct. 31, with annual on-grid power capacity reaching 42.86 million kilowatt-hours. This will result in a reduction of 13,200 tons of standard coal consumption and 39,600 tons of carbon dioxide emissions yearly.

Worlds first typhoon-resistant floating wind turbine installed

Southern Chinas coastal province Guangdong installed the worlds first typhoon-resistant floating wind turbine in the Yangjiang sea area. With a single-machine capacity of 5,500 kilowatts, the floating offshore wind turbine is capable of generating 5,500 kilowatt-hours at full capacity, enough to power 30,000 households with green and clean electricity. The turbine is designed to withstand typhoons reaching wind speeds as high as 220 kph.

Trina Solar wins approval to sell $820 million of convertible bonds

Shanghai-listed solar panel maker Trina Solar (688599.SH) received approval from the China Securities Regulatory Commission to sell 5.3 billion yuan ($820 million) of convertible bonds. The company said it will use proceeds to develop its newly built high-efficiency solar cell and module projects and to supplement working capital.

Oriental Energy plans $935 million acrylonitrile project

Oriental Energy Co. Ltd. (002221.SZ) plans to build an acrylonitrile project and supporting facilities with annual capacity of 260,000 tons to strengthen comprehensive utilization of hydrogen energy, produce high value-added staple commodities and improve profitability. Construction is estimated to take two years. The total investment in the two plants will be $935 million.

Contact editors Han Wei (weihan@caixin.com) and Bob Simison (bobsimison@caixin.com)

Download our app to receive breaking news alerts and read the news on the go.

Follow the Chinese markets in real time with Caixin Globals new stock database.
The Shanghai Astronomy Museum opened Sunday to lines of visitors waiting to get inside its planetarium. The museum, which covers about 14 acres in the China Pilot Free Trade Zone in Shanghais Pudong New Area, comprises an observatory, garden, solar telescope and youth observatory base, making it one of the worlds largest planetariums

Jul 19, 2021 03:31 PM
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Louisiana Techs Kenneth Lofton, Jr. helped Team USA go a perfect 3-0 in Group D with decisive victories over Turkey, Mali and Australia in the FIBA U19 World Cup in Riga, Latvia.
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Photo: The Canadian Press Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, center, greets Gen. Scott Miller, the former top U.S. commander in Afghanistan, as Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Mark Milley, left, looks on, upon Miller's return, Wednesday, July 14, 2021, at Andrews Air Force Base, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, Pool)

The Biden administration is set to begin evacuations of Afghans who aided the U.S. military effort in the nearly 20-year war during the last week of July, according to a senior administration official.

The official, who was not authorized to comment publicly, said Wednesday that Operation Allies Refuge flights out of Afghanistan will be available first for special immigrant visa applicants already in the process of applying for U.S. residency.

President Joe Biden has faced pressure from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to come up with plan to help evacuate Afghan military helpers ahead of next month's U.S. military withdrawal.

The White House began briefing lawmakers on the outlines of their plans last month.

The evacuation planning could potentially affect tens of thousands of Afghans. Several thousand Afghans who worked for the U.S.  plus their family members  are already in the application pipeline for special immigrant visas.

The Biden administration has also been working on identifying a third country or U.S. territory that could host Afghans while their visa applications are processed.

The administration is weighing using State Department-chartered commercial aircraft, not military aircraft, according to a second administration official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal deliberations. But if at some stage the State Department requests military aircraft, the U.S. military would be ready to assist, the official said.

Tracey Jacobson, a three-time chief of mission in Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Kosovo, is leading the State Department Coordination Unit that will deliver on the presidents commitment under Operation Allies Refuge. That unit also includes representatives from the Defense and Homeland Security departments.

Russ Travers, deputy Homeland Security adviser and former head of the National Counterterrorism Center, is coordinating the interagency policy process on Operation Allies Refuge, officials said.
Photo: The Canadian Press

The Canadian Real Estate Association says home sales last month fell on a month-over-month basis for the third straight month as the market continued to slow after hitting an all-time record in March.

The association says home sales were down 8.4 per cent month-over-month in June, as sales cooled in 80 per cent of all local markets.

However, compared with a year ago, sales in June rose 13.6 per cent to set a new record for the month.

CREA chair Cliff Stevenson says while there is still a lot of activity in many markets across Canada, things have noticeably calmed down in the last few months.

The number of newly listed homes edged down 0.7 per cent in June compared with May.

CREA says the actual national average price of a home sold in June was a little over $679,000, up 25.9 per cent compared with a year ago.
Photo: BC Gov Flickr

B.C. Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth has issued a statement on the wildfires threatening communities across the Interior, as pressure builds to declare a province-wide state of emergency.

"I want to assure British Columbians that we are deploying all necessary and available personnel and equipment to respond to wildfires across the province. The federal government and the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre are providing firefighting personnel, aircraft support and other assets.

A military helicopter was deployed to help airlift some evacuees out of the Anahim Lake area, which is currently cut off by two fires, one that jumped Highway 20.

Farnworth adds, "In many parts of the province, especially the Interior, hot and dry conditions are forecast to persist for the foreseeable future. I know tensions for many are high, given the widespread, damaging fire seasons of recent years. And I know many are seeking ways to lend their support.

"If you are in a community that is under an evacuation alert, or in any community that may be threatened by wildfires this summer, there's a lot you can do to prepare your family before an evacuation. If you don't have an evacuation plan, now is the time to make one. There are a host of guides and supports available on the PreparedBC and Emergency Info BC websites.

"I know that British Columbians are resilient and we will see the other side of this fire season, concludes Farnworth.
Photo: The Canadian Press Transport Minister Omar Alghabra speaks at a press conference with Ottawa South MP David McGuinty looking on at the Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/David Kawai

Canada's cruise ship ban will end in November, a few months ahead of schedule.

Cruise ships haven't been allowed in Canadian waters or ports for more than a year because of COVID-19 and the ban was set to remain in place until February 2022.

Transport Minister Omar Alghabra now says that with the pandemic improving and a rising vaccination rate, Canada will welcome ships back starting Nov. 1.

They will need to follow public health protocols, but those details are not yet available.

Cruise ships were early hot spots for COVID-19 last year, with hundreds of passengers falling ill and ships being stranded at sea as multiple countries began refusing them in ports.

Cruises generally play a major part in Canada's tourism industry, contributing $4 billion a year to the economy and employing 30,000 people directly and indirectly.

Cruises resumed in the United States last month for the first time since March 2020, with more set to sail from other states over the summer and this fall.

Some cruise lines are opting to require all passengers be vaccinated.

Those leaving Florida, one of the most popular places for voyages to begin, are not able to do so because of a state ban on businesses asking people to show proof of vaccination.

The first ship sailing by Celebrity Cruises last month allowed vaccinated passengers to ditch face masks while on board, while unvaccinated passengers were limited to specific state rooms and areas on the ship.

The cruise line said more than 95 per cent of passengers on board had been fully vaccinated.
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Oman Cement posts 5% decline in net profit

15 July 2021

Oman Cement has posted a 4.8 per cent decline in net profit to OMR2m (US$5.2m) in the first half of 2021, compared to OMR2.1m in the year-ago period.



Total revenue fell 9.1 per cent YoY to OMR24m from OMR26.4m in the 1H20.

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The U.S. Department of Education announced the approval of Tennessees American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ARP ESSER) plan and distributed remaining ARP ESSER funds to the state. Tennessees plan "details how the state is using and plans to use ARP ESSER funds to safely reopen and sustain the safe operation of schools and equitably expand opportunity for students who need it most, particularly those most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic."

Earlier this year, the Department distributed two thirds of the ARP ESSER funds, totaling $81 billion, to 50 states and the District of Columbia. The remaining third of the funding to states will be made available once state plans are approved.

Tennessee is receiving more than $2 billion total in ARP ESSER funds, and todays approval of their plan will result in the release of the final $830 million.

I am excited to announce approval of Tennessees plan, said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. It is heartening to see, reflected in these state plans, the ways in which states are thinking deeply about how to use American Rescue Plan funds to continue to provide critical support to schools and communities, particularly as we move into the summer and look ahead to the upcoming academic year. The approval of these plans enables states to receive vital, additional American Rescue Plan funds to quickly and safely reopen schools for full-time, in-person learning; meet students academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs; and address disparities in access to educational opportunity that were exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic. The state plans that have been submitted to the Department lay the groundwork for the ways in which an unprecedented infusion of federal resources will be used to address the urgent needs of Americas children and build back better.

Tennessee Education Commissioner Penny Schwinn said, Tennessees ARP ESSER plan prioritizes strategic, student-centered investments to help accelerate learning, and we are proud to receive approval on our plan from the U.S. Department of Education. In Tennessee, we are maximizing over $4 billion in K-12 funding to provide all students with essential academic supports like statewide tutoring and early reading resources, and to strengthen programs that support student readiness and our educators. With additional policy and funding investments at the state level, Tennessee is dedicated to ensuring the best for all students.

I was proud to support, along with President Biden and Vice President Harris, getting this money to Tennessee, said Rep. Jim Cooper. Many low-income and rural students were disproportionately affected by remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic just because they had no access - or no reliable access - to the Internet.

Officials said, "The ARP ESSER state plans approved by the Department today, including Tennessee, show how states are using federal pandemic resources to support safe in-person instruction and meet the social, emotional, mental health, and academic needs of students - with a focus on the students most impacted by the pandemic." For example:

Addressing the Academic Impact of Lost Instructional Time: The Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) will use ARP ESSER funds to support high-dosage tutoring using a statewide tutoring model called Tennessee Accelerating Literacy and Learning Corps (TN ALL Corps). This model will span the next three years and will provide tutor training and certification, grade-level specific content, high-dosage tutoring, significant guidance and tutoring resources, and a directory of TDOE-reviewed providers. TDOE will offer districts the opportunity to apply for matching grants to fund TN ALL Corps, as well as offer matching grants for community partners to help provide academic acceleration supports for students. TDOE also will continue to invest in reading and early literacy through its statewide Reading360 initiative, launched earlier this year, directing a suite of supports and resources to boost third-grade reading proficiency.

Investing in Summer Learning and Expanded Afterschool Programs: Ensuring students and families had opportunities to extend learning beyond classrooms, TDOE developed at-home learning resources and materials in partnerships with the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) and the Tennessee STEM Innovation Network (TSIN) that continue today, and recently made available free Reading360 decodable readers for families with young children to focus on strengthening early reading skills. To support new statewide summer programming and tutoring supports for students, TDOE will provide resources for instruction in summer learning camps as well as district and community partner grants to support high dosage tutoring models.

A total of 40 states have submitted their ARP ESSER state plans to the Department. The Department is reviewing the plans expeditiously and is in contact with states to ensure their plans meet all necessary requirements in order to access the remaining funds, as outlined in the ARP, it was stated. The Department also is in contact with states that have not yet submitted plans, the vast majority of which are due to state board of education or legislative review requirements.

Officials said, "The distribution of ARP ESSER funds is part of the Departments broader effort to support students and districts as they work to reengage students impacted by the pandemic, address inequities exacerbated by COVID-19, and build our education system back better than before.

"In addition to providing $130 billion for K-12 education in the ARP to support the safe reopening of K-12 schools and meet the needs of all students, the Biden-Harris Administration also has:

Released three volumes of the COVID-19 Handbook.

Held a National Safe School Reopening Summit .

Prioritized the vaccination of educators, school staff and child care workers. As of the end of May, an estimated 84 percent of teachers and school staff were fully vaccinated.

Provided $10 billion in funding for COVID-19 testing for PreK-12 educators, staff, and students.

Launched a series of Equity Summits focused on addressing inequities that existed before but were made worse by the pandemic.

Released a report on the disparate impacts of COVID-19 on underserved communities.

Developed a Safer Schools and Campuses Best Practices Clearinghouse elevating hundreds of best practices to support schools efforts to reopen safely and address the impacts of COVID-19 on students, educators, and communities.

"In addition to the actions the Biden-Harris Administration has taken to reopen schools, the President has proposed critical investments through his Build Back Better agenda that will enable schools to rebuild stronger than they were before the pandemic, such as investing billions to build a diverse educator workforce, expand access to pre-K to all families, and invest in school infrastructure, among other provisions."
There is an ages-old axiom that states, Thunder makes the noise, but lightning does the work.

So, venture with me to Toledo, Ohio, where a huge and magnificent mural of the departed George Floyd was painted on a brick wall of what was once  rather ironically -- known as Mugshots bar. At around 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Doppler radar at TV station WTCG showed a lightning strike in that vicinity.

The Toledo building inspector said the wall was old. It was just age, said the inspector, adding, It just came away. It turns out the powerful lightning bolt clobbered the wall at the building that was once home to Mugshots and blew the mural to smithereens.The Toledo building inspector said the wall was old. It was just age, said the inspector, adding, It just came away.

But no, the pundits aint buying. Here are some of the comments found on WTCG yesterday afternoon:

* -- "And they say God isn't real," one commentator wrote.

* -- "I'm not a religious person whatsoever, but if there was ever an event that caused me to pause, this would be it," another user said. "Wow..."

* -- "Warning  be on the lookout for liberal logic on this: Lightning struck the mural; There is more lightning because of climate change; Republicans don't believe in climate change; Republicans are all white racists; White racists therefore destroyed the mural," another quipped.

* -- "Now BLM is gonna say that lightning strikes are racist, and they should check their privileges," another user observed.

* -- "Was wondering why we wanted a mural of a criminal anyway," another noted. "Of course, it's awful he's dead, but that doesn't mean we should celebrate a guy who held a knife to a pregnant woman's belly."

Donald Trump Jr. was flabbergasted. He told one news source, While many might consider a lightning strike an unfortunate coincidence, Donald Trump Jr. had a very different, immediate response to seeing the news.

Its almost like a higher power is telling us something, he wrote on Twitter. When was the last time you heard of a brick building being destroyed by lightning? I am a builder and Im not sure Ive ever heard of it.

* * *

TOLEDO MAYOR SAYS MURAL WILL BE REPLACED

The city will work with Toledo's arts commission and the artist to replace the mural, "so that the message at the core of this artwork can be heard," Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz said in a statement yesterday.

We may never know for certainty why the George Floyd mural came down. It could have been an act of nature, or it could have been an act of vandalism, Kapszukiewicz said. "What we do know is that the mural will be replaced."

A witness told Toledo Fire and Rescue that the wall on which the mural was painted fell after a lightning bolt struck the building, according to WZZM-TV. The department told the station the lightning strike was the cause of the collapse.

* * *

Now, some other stuff 

A NOTE FROM A KANSAS HIGHWAY PATROL OFFICER

I spent the better part of 30 minutes this morning, on the shoulder of U54, speaking to a truck driver who had been speeding. As soon as I walked up to the truck, I had a feeling it would not be a typical stop.

The man I had stopped identified himself as a born and raised Muslim from Afghanistan. He explained how he spent 7 years, 2012-2019, as a translator for the US Army and US Marines in Afghanistan and Iraq, intercepting radio signals and relaying them to fighters in battle.

He explained how the USA in his eyes the greatest country in the world and the people in this country is who are trying to tear it apart, have no idea what its like to grow up where he did, a war-torn country, where they would kill you for going against the grain.

He recognized the fact that I was a white law enforcement officer and that his skin was not the same as mine, but not one time did he ever feel unsafe to be stopped.

He then asked for a picture and showed me hundreds of photos of himself on the battlefield in the Middle East, with American soldiers. He was even more proud of his dog tags still around his neck and his military ID.

This gentleman left me with one final thing. He stated, if only Americans could see this country from the outside looking in, all of this would stop.

Now, do you really think he got a ticket? Or, deserved one?

* * *

A TERRIBLY SAD EMAIL

I have written several times about my opposition to the Critical Race Theory. On Wednesday I received an email from a Hamilton County father about our countys Department of Education that explains my dubious feelings for the current administration:

He writes: My daughter was a teacher in the Hamilton County school system. I say it was, because of a training class two weeks ago. She had to attend a training class on the new curriculum and materials to be used in the upcoming year. The school system had brought in a consultant to help direct the teachers in this new plan.

This consultant was from up north (not sure her state) and while leading the discussion, she got around to talking about children and transgender. The consultant instructed the teachers that they should encourage any student to follow their thoughts of changing their sex. No matter the childs age, the teacher should encourage the student to follow their dreams and to pursue a sex change. The teacher should start addressing the student by their new gender as soon as possible.

The teacher was encouraged to not discuss the childs curiosity with the childs parent. The child should have the freedom to pursue the transformation without the parents intervention. Although the Hamilton County representative told the teachers to listen but dont encourage, the consultant was adamant about helping the student.

My daughter spoke out about it and after, applied and accepted a position in another county. Not only is CRT an issue, but were also encouraging our young kids to change their sex.

* * *

And public schools wonder about a three percent decline in enrollment? Please 
The Chattanooga Writers' Guild annual writing contest had 93 entries.

Here are the results:

Creative Nonfiction - Ann Thornfield-Long Final Judge

Kelly Hanwright and Alice Sanford, Preliminary Judges

First Place: "P. S. Please Still be my Friend Even though You Think I've Gone Mad" Kate Landers

Second Place: "ADD Lollapalooza" Natalie Kimbell

Third Place: "The Crow, the Cat, and Clark Kent" Miki Boni

Honorable Mention "It's Not Like I'm Going to Dye" Amy Ziegler

The other non-fiction finalists were also winners, each with unique experiences and skillful story-telling.

"Better Than Church" Devereaux Chivington-Stebbins

"He Might Not Back Down" Carol Hobbs

"My Walden" Mark Anderson

"To Mute or Not Mute:" Judy DiGregorio

"Hometown" Kate Clark Stone

Annual Writing Contest - Fiction

Kelle Z. Riley, Final Judge

Kale Sartor Preliminary Judge

First Place "An Honest-to-God Miracle" Kate Landers

Second Place "Measure" Alexandria Brielle Kelly

Third Pace "The Croaks are Coming" Tyler York



Finalists

"The Gifts of the Pegasus" Maria Hurt

"Mother Marys Pound Cakes" Tyler York

"How to Mourn a Pet" James Brumbaugh

"To Surveil of Not to Surveil" Maximilian Martini

"Keplar 452b" Patricia Hope

"Nothing Lasts Very Long Around Here" Boyce Brawley

Annual Writing Contest - Poetry

K.B. Ballentine, Final Judge

Kemmer Anderson, Preliminary Judge

First place: "Reading Moll Flanders" Helga Kidder

Second place: "Blaze" Ken Harpe

Third place: "Read House Hotel" Helga Kidder

Finalists

"Rift" (like the visionnot of the savantssewn in Pascals jacket) Shawn Callaway Hays

"What do I Tell my Children" Elizabeth W Cooper

"Gaugin (in Arles, December 1888)" Alice Sanford

"Capacity" Ken Harpe

Annual Writing contest - Creative Culinary Creation

John C. Mannone Final Judge

Sherry Poff and Nancy Grill, Preliminary Judges

First Place, "Cabbage & Salt in the Wound" Kate Landers

Second Place, "old auric rain," Shawn Callaway Hays

Honorable Mentions:

"This Fall" Kelly Hanwright

"Ode to Okra" Patricia Hope



July's contest theme is "Redemption." The judge will be Mark Anderson, assisted by John C. Mannone and Helga Kidder. Mr. Anderson loves the creative environment of Chattanooga and is involved with writing, music, and special event projects. You may often find him out busking with guitar and harmonica or sharing at open mics. He has been a member of the Chattanooga Writers Guild since 2016 and has served on the Board in various roles.

His self-published works include a chap book, Dribble and Drool, and two childrens books, Oh Happy Dog and Shu Shus Bright New Day. His poetry was published in the CWG 2019 Anthology and he edited the CWG 2020 Anthology. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of English Writing at American Public University.

The theme for June's contest was "Exploration" and the winner was Sherry Poff with her creative nonfiction piece, "Northeast." Ms. Poff grew up in the hills of West Virginia. She now lives and writes in and around Chattanooga, where she interacts with a large group of students and family members.

Ms. Poff holds an MA in Writing from UTC and is a member of the Chattanooga Writers Guild. She served as a board member for the CWG for six years. Her stories and poems have appeared in numerous online and print publications. Ms. Poffs short poem Resurrection, published in Liquid Imagination, was nominated for the Pushcart Prize.

Judge Ray Zimmerman has this to say about "Northeast": Of all the entries, "Northeast" best matches the theme of "exploration." It is a masterfully written travel journal. From Matsuo Basho to Bill Bryson, the travel journal is an honored and popular genre.
Homeland Security Chief Alejandro Mayorkas just issued a stern warning to anyone considering fleeing the communist nation of Cuba. What a contradiction that is to Joe Bidens removing the remain in Mexico policy of Donald Trump which has opened the flood gates from Central and South America.

In contrast to whats actually happening in Texas, the apparently delusional Mayorkas said, the border is closed (Washington Post, March 21, 2021). Is it a coincidence the migrant caravans didnt get Mr. Mayorkas email? The Wall St Journal, in that same month, reported border agents were expelling about 5,000 a day and thats the ones they have caught. The Texas Tribune reported 178,622 were taken into custody in April with more in May.

The coincidences just dont stop. Mayorkas is a Cuban American and rejecting Cuban immigrants would seem odd. Odd, that is until you understand those fleeing Cuba would certainly tell of communist oppression there. Mayorkas wouldnt want them describing their difficult life in a country progressives, including Bernie Sanders, often applaud.

In Cuba, the communists took their cue from U.S. progressives and are blaming their woes on Trump. Mr. Mayorkas doesnt want fleeing Cubans saying otherwise. He also doesnt want anything obscuring his tale about Trump causing the flood of migrants now streaming into Texas that Mayorkas says isnt happening.

Interviews of these migrants has revealed they are coming in massive numbers now because they believe Biden, unlike Trump, is welcoming them in (ABC This Week, Martha Raddatz, March 21, 2021).

In the progressives world, Donald Trump is the cause of all problems and the Cubans represent a threat to that story. These are not coincidences, they are examples of an incompetent administration unable to deal effectively with either problem.

Ralph Miller

* * *

Mr. Miller,

These are not coincidences, these are actions out of fear. Trump carried nearly 70 percent of the Cuban-American vote. The white house does not want them here for the reasons you listed and the fact that they know how they will vote one day. The people of Cuba actually have an asylum claim and our government is refusing them safety.

The disaster of the southern border will wreak havoc on our nation for years. Immigrants coming in at the pace we are seeing is not doable. We are doing an injustice not only to our own citizens but to the immigrants as well.

The health issues alone (COVID-19) and the poor job situation is a lose-lose for everyone. We have a homeless issue in so many cities that we should find a real solution for before we open the border up.

Bill Slack
Halie Gass Forstner, 110, died on Thursday, July 15, 2021 at Morning Pointe Assisted Living.

She was the widow of Charles M. Forstner and the only daughter of the late Garrett Lee and Minnie Nicholas Gass.

Halie was born in Dade County, GA in 1911 but had lived most of her life in Chattanooga. Mrs. Forstner was a member of Lookout Valley Presbyterian Church EPC where she was an elder and held offices in the Womens Ministries. She was a member of the YWCA for many years and did volunteer work for the Heart Association and Crippled Childrens Association. She was a graduate of Chattanooga High School class of 1930 and attended the University of Chattanooga. She was employed by Chattanooga Medicine Company and the TVA for many years. At age 105, she was honored by Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam before the Tennessee State Senate. She was also recognized as a Tennessee Treasure by the Daughters of the American Revolution, and was honored as a lifelong student of history by UTC.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, July 18, 2021 at Lookout Valley Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Grady Davidson officiating. Visitation will be from 1-3 p.m. on Sunday at the church. Burial will be in Brown Gap Cemetery, Sand Mountain, GA.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Lookout Valley Presbyterian Church building fund or the Salvation Army.

Arrangements are by the East Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, 404 South Moore Road.

Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastChapel.com.
Don't know, Roy. But if you're going to venture into the supernatural, can what some see as a 'divine' act actually be evil divined? As in author Nora Robert's book, "Divine Evil?" Would a "peaceful, loving, compassionate" divinity really send a lighten bolt down to destroy the mural of a man hideously murdered before the eyes of the world just b'cuz? If so, would that make the act a divine evil? And not the works of a Divinity filled with love and compassion? Just askin'.





Muslim women who had to stop wearing their hijabs for fear of being attacked or killed even. As for the Muslim interpreter? He was just lucky he likely got here long after Muslims were being openly targeted, chased from Walmart, attacked at most every opportunity, or as the Muslim truck driver who was critically wounded during a traffic stop in some small Tennessee town while America was hating heavily on anyone who dared looked Muslim, wore Muslim style clothing or had a Muslim sounding name.Muslim women who had to stop wearing their hijabs for fear of being attacked or killed even.





He's just lucky the gears have been switched now to folks from south of the border, and other targets that are always targets have taken precedence. But that could all change at any given moment without notice, and he or anyone who looks like him could have themselves on the receiving end all over again. Doesn't take much to "stir up the crazies."









Last, the CRT topic. That's a hot topic these days, but with so much wrong info floating around about it, it's doubtful anyone can really decipher what it's really about. However, I will say this; if you've ever been in a toxic classroom where young children were and the adult at the head of the class didn't want to be there, or didn't want to teach a certain curriculum, all I have to say is, personally I'd prefer they not teach it at all. I've seen the damage. The damage done to a young child can be irreversible and lifelong. No matter how educated or professional the individual at the head of the class, all humans derive from the same dysfunctional society and some come with lots of baggage even into the classroom. Not everyone is equipped to teach objectionably, professionally and without bringing their own personal issues or biases into the mix.





Brenda Washington

* * *

Miss Washington,

I know as so many try to profit and justify their feeling of oppression that it would be unthinkable that people of color are not capable of prejudice.

As a white person growing up in Washington DC in the 60s and having to attend public schools, I know from personal experience the suffering of prejudice.

Having to attend a junior high school that was 97 percent black, I know what it feels like to be called a white ______.

I know what its like to be beat up and forced to give up my lunch money to someone who demanded it from me because of my skin color.

Now I could justify my feelings of oppression and hang on to those for the rest of my life and claim victimhood, but I have chosen not to let my past govern my present and future.

I find it interesting that those who are claiming victimhood and who are furthering CRT are turning out to be the true raciest now.

Jay Reed


The excitement is growing as Showtime gears up to release the Dexter revival. Set for 10 new episodes, the show will follow Dexter Morgan after he decided to go on the run and flee Miami. He has since started a new life for himself as Jim Lindsay, but if rumors are true, people from his past could show up.

C.S. Lee, David Zayas, James Remar & Edward James Olmos | Michael Buckner/Getty Images

Where is Dexter now?

Beginning 10 years after the events in the original series finale, the revival finds Dexter living in the fictional Iron Lake, New York, where he works as a salesman.

As far as what I can reveal about the new show is, I dont want to say much, other than as you can imagine given where we left him his life is completely recontextualized, actor Michael C. Hall (Dexter Morgan) previously told Louder Than War.

Hes in a different place leading a different life surrounded by different people, he continued. And the fact that Im talking to you from Concord, Massachusetts suggests that its not all going to be sun and sand.

A teaser trailer reveals Dexter is well-liked by members of his community. Little do they know, hes one of Miamis most notorious killers. And even though hes tried to change his ways, showrunner Clyde Phillips has said his dark passenger will still be a problem.

RELATED: Dexter Star Hints the Revival Is Inspired by Alternate Ending Idea

The Dexter revival could feature an old pal from Miami

The cast of the Dexter revival is mostly comprised of new actors, but there are rumors that several original stars will show up. The website Dexter Daily reported in July that C.S. Lee was allegedly spotted on a set with Phillips, sharing a photo from Lees Instagram where a man identified as Phillips can be seen.

Lee played Vince Masuka, a forensic specialist at the Miami Metro Police Department who became friends with Dexter. Its unclear how hed fit into the revival, considering Dexter was presumed dead in the finale. But then again, we know that Dexter is at risk of having his cover blown. If Masuka is in Iron Lake, maybe something happened that left him searching for answers.

As of writing, Lee has not commented on whether hes in the Dexter revival. However, theres been speculation that he would be involved since he shared a certain post on Instagram, though he has since said it was taken out of context.

Aside from him, there has also been speculation that Jack Alcott will play Harrison, but nothing has been confirmed. Emails to his representatives were not returned.

RELATED: Dexter Creepy Teaser Photo Emerges: Mr. Lindsay? Clean-Up on Aisle Four

As far as the status of the show, Hall said in June that there were just a few more weeks of filming left.

We have about five weeks to go, he told Times Radio (via Digital Spy). I think the whole shoot would have taken five months. Its basically like were filming it as a 10-hour movie. It will be ten episodes, premiering at least in the States on Showtime on November 7.

We guess well see who winds up on the show then. Save the date.
Scarlett Johansson and Florence Pugh were complete strangers prior to filming Marvels newest film, Black Widow  but now the two are great friends. The talented actors had to spend a ton of time together while filming scenes for the movie, so it makes sense that theyve developed a strong bond over the course of time.

While promoting Black Widow, Johansson and Pugh have been unveiling a bunch of little-known stories about their time together on set in Budapest, Hungary.

One of the more interesting tidbits is that Johanssons daughter had to keep bringing ice cream to Pugh because of the intense Budapest heat during their summer production schedule.

Scarlett Johansson and Florence Pugh had to film Black Widow in the middle of summer in Hungary

Scarlett Johansson and Florence Pugh | Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images

Pugh discussed the exhausting filming process for Black Widow during a recent interview with IMDb.

We were strapped to a motorbike in the summer heat of Budapest for about five hours, Pugh recalled.

Johansson added that the two of them were required to uncomfortably sit in one spot for many hours while the crew tried to get the right shots.

When we say strapped, we mean like, physically attached by harness things, and we were just like, stuck together, Johansson said.

And we couldnt go to the toilet, remember? Pugh chimed in.

Florence Pugh kept messing with Scarlett Johansson while they shot their scenes together

Because they were forced to stay in one location for so long, Pugh had to find ways to keep the mood light. This resulted in Pugh constantly harassing Johansson in little ways, which Johansson found funny.

Florence was behind me as well, so it was just like  So, you ever spend summers at camp?  We were just stuck together for so many hours. And she would just do really annoying little things behind me, Johansson said. Pull little pieces of hair.

I would. Well, it would be a good way to keep up morale, Pugh said. You know, wed have to keep on giggling.

Scarlett Johanssons daughter kept bringing Florence Pugh ice cream to fight the heat

Johanssons daughter was also on the Black Widow set, and she kept busy by bringing Pugh ice cream in between takes to keep her cool  even though her mom couldnt have any.

And Scarletts daughter would keep on delivering us ice cream because it was so hot, Pugh added. But Scarlett wouldnt be allowed it because shes not allowed dairy. So shed be really annoyed that I was eating delicious ice cream right behind her.

The Black Widow stars became close friends while working together

Johansson and Pugh might be close friends now, but when they first connected to work on Black Widow, Johansson wasnt sure what to make of the young actor. However, once they started having to shoot action scenes together, they quickly developed a bond that they maintain to this day.

Day one, we were slamming each other into door frames and getting each other into headlocks and choking each other out, Johansson told Access. And it was an interesting way to sort of just hit the ground running with another actor. Yeah, were in each others physical intimacy very early on. It actually ended up being kind of the perfect ice breaker.

Black Widow is now playing in theaters.

RELATED: Scarlett Johansson Had Some Great Advice For Black Widow Co-Star and Marvel Newcomer Florence Pugh
On July 13, BTS appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon as guests. Fallon interviewed Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. At the end of the episode, BTS performed their newest single Permission to Dance. During the interview, Fallon asked BTS about their future touring plans, and the members expertly avoided the question, fueling the idea that a tour announcement could be coming soon.

BTS | Big Hit Music

Jimmy Fallon asked BTS about their tour

In 2020, BTS were supposed to have a world tour called the Map of the Soul Tour. Because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the tours opening shows in Seoul were canceled and Big Hit Music indefinitely postponed the other tour dates.

Fallon mentioned the Map of the Soul Tour on The Tonight Show, saying, I was excited to see you guys go on tour, Map of the Soul Tour, and then the pandemic happened. I didnt get a chance to see it or open for you guys.

This led Fallon to ask about BTS future touring plans.

But I was thinking when, when, when will you go back on tour? Fallon asked the septet. And what will that feel like when you do go back on tour?

RELATED: Elton John Gave BTS New Song Permission to Dance a Shout-Out on Twitter

BTS did not completely answer the question

After Fallon asked about BTS tour plans, the members gave some coy smiles.

This is what we want, and this is what were gonna feel when were back on tour, RM said as the crowd cheered. We want to do the make some noise thing again.

Fallon brought up how emotional it has been to have a live audience back for filming The Tonight Show. He told Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook to wear sunglasses for their first performance in front of fans so they can hide their tears.

Of course, BTS mainly focused on the second part of Fallons question and did not specifically answer the first part. Still, RM seemed to hint an announcement could come soon.

Get ready, guys, get ready, he said.

RELATED: BTS: How to Purchase the Bands Butter CD

BTS hinted about a tour in their Permission to Dance music video teaser

Given that multiple artists have started scheduling tours for 2021 and 2022, one might assume that Fallons question about a tour was completely innocent. However, BTS previously indicated a new tour is on the horizon in their teaser for the Permission to Dance music video.

The teaser was shared online on July 6, and it features multiple hints about BTS future plans. At the start of the teaser, Suga reads a magazine called The Daily. The backside of the magazine reads The Daily 2022 vol. 10, and the front of the issue has multiple headlines about the end of the coronavirus and a new era of BTS music.

Some of the headlines on the front cover of the magazine read:

OUR LIFE GOES ON

BYE Lets Not Meet Again Ever

2022 THE BEGINNING OF A NEW ERA GOOD BYE COVID-19

HARBINGERS OF HOPE: PURPLE BALLOONS SIGNAL THE END OF COVID-19

WE ALL WORKED TOGETHER TO OVERCOME IT. NOTHING COULD STOP US.

RELATED: BTS Continue Their Record-Breaking Streak at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 With Butter

During another part of the teaser, J-Hope stands in front of a sign that has the names of multiple cities and countries along with BTS fandom, ARMY, listed. The names are listed on individual arrows in this order: Seoul, ARMY, London, San Francisco, Moscow, Egypt, Berlin, Kenya, and Paris.

Based on these clues and Fallons question about the tour, one can expect BTS will announce a new album era and tour dates sometime in the future.
Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly have been making a lot of headlines with their relationship lately. The two always draw a ton of attention due to their cool outfits and brazen displays of PDA, but now theyre the subject of internet discussion for a different reason.

Fox recently revealed that the couple took a trip to Costa Rica for a spiritual ayahuasca ceremony, which ended up being one of the most intense experiences of her life. The couple stayed in Central America for three days while they were guided by a group of indigenous people, who frequently host celebrities and high-profile guests during their first trip.

Even though Fox found the experience to be spiritually enlightening, she also acknowledged that on the second night of the ceremony, she went to hell for eternity.

Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly went to Costa Rica for a psychedelic experience

Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly attend the 2021 iHeartRadio Music Awards at The Dolby Theatre | Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for iHeartMedia

Fox discussed the psychedelic experience during a recent interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live!

So we went to Costa Rica to do ayahuasca in, like, a proper setting, with indigenous people, Fox told Arsenio Hall, the shows guest host.

Although Fox was initially expecting a glamorous retreat, the reality of the experience was much different.

You get there and you really are in the middle of the jungle, and you dont get to eat after like 1 p.m. You have to walk a very far distance to get your water, and you cant shower because theyre in a drought, Fox recalled. There was nothing glamorous about it, and its all a part of making you vulnerable, so you sort of surrender to the experience.

She had to puke out everything in her stomach at the beginning of the ceremony

The initial shock of her surroundings was already a lot for Fox to take in, but things only got more intense. Prior to the trip, she, Kelly, and 20 other strangers had to purge themselves of everything in their stomachs, which was likely not a pleasant experience.

You all line up at the edge of the rainforest, over this weird fence, and you go three by three and you drink lemongrass tea until you, not by your own volition, just vomit everything out of your body, Fox shared. And you have to vomit a certain amount until they let you get back with everyone else, so youre like cheering on everyone as they throw up.

Megan Fox went to hell for eternity during the 3 day ceremony

Once the ayahuasca ceremony began, thats when things really started getting interesting. The Transformers star began to have powerful hallucinations, which were terrifying at the time.

Just knowing its eternity is torture in itself, because theres no beginning, middle or end. So you have a real ego death, she said. Later in the interview, she described the ceremony your own version of hell, and I was definitely there.

Despite how scary the experience might sound, Fox recommended that everyone try it at least once. She explained that it helped her better understand herself and that it surpasses talk therapy or hypnotherapy because it just goes straight into your soul, and it takes you to the psychological prison that you hold yourself in.

How to get help: In the U.S., contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration helpline at 1-800-662-4357.

RELATED: What Is Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kellys Age Difference? Why She Told Critics to F Yourself
As the newest broker on Million Dollar Listing New York, Kirsten Jordan brings her own flair and style to the real estate hustle. But she recently shared that she has some of the same qualities the current brokers possess, which makes her a force in the competitive world of luxury real estate.

Kirsten Jordan says her style is constantly evolving

I think, well, my style is of course always evolving, she said on the Behind the Velvet Rope with David Yontef podcast. I think were all always evolving and were trying to refine ourselves to bring in as much business as possible and stay true to our essence of self, which is for me, you know, really wanting to, I love new development. I love high-end. I love luxury.

Million Dollar Listing New Yorks Tyler Whitman, Ryan Serhant, Kirsten Jordan, Steve Gold | Greg Endries/Bravo

But, I also do love first-time buyers, she added. And I love the relationships that come from, you know, younger people purchasing their first apartments. So I would say my vibe is probably a little bit more, I dont know. I feel like I have a combination of each agent.

Kirsten Jordan is a little like Steve Gold, but also like Tyler Whitman

Jordan said shes a lot like Steve Gold when it comes to business acumen. Like, I feel like Im a hardcore business, the way that Steve is because Steve really is like business, you know? she said.

RELATED: Million Dollar Listing New York: Tyler Whitman Goes for the Big Fish This Season (Exclusive)

But at the same time, she and Tyler Whitman share a similar sense of humor. And then I also feel like Im, I feel like Im approachable likable, and self-deprecating the same way that Tyler is in some ways, she said. Whitman and Jordan recently did a co-listing and shot a fun marketing video for the property. My patience in trying to come up with a marketing concept alongside Kirsten on the other hand greatly jeopardized. Please enjoy a listing video battle royale! Whitman joked in a caption along with the video he posted.

Shes also got some Ryan Serhant and Fredrik Eklund in her style too

Jordan also said shes a big picture person like Ryan Serhant. And I feel like Ryan, she said. I think Id like to think that I have really big picture goals and that I have a lot of things Im working on them. Im hoping, you know, kind of are similar to what hes done, but you know, in another kind of business to business manner, which I really admire him for everything hes done.

She may not be high kicking, but Jordan relates to Fredrik Eklunds theatrical nature. And then I also feel like I do have some, some twinkle of Frederick, she added. Of the, you know, theatrical manifesting, making it happen, fantasy.

Who would she ask to sell a property if she couldnt do the deal?

She also tried to answer how she would deal with a property that she couldnt move. Who would she ask to try to sell it? Well, I, I live in the upper west side, so we have to think of people whove done the most business on the upper west side of them, which would be Tyler and Ryan, she said.

RELATED: Million Dollar Listing New York: Kirsten Jordan Admits Junk Juice Tastes a Bit Like Dirt and Licorice (Exclusive)

They have the most business up there, she continued. I think itd be a toss-up. Id probably see if I can get them to do a co-listing. Might have watched them duke it out.
Most people think the royal family must have it all. However, royal family pictures can sometimes show a different tale completely, especially if you look back at Princess Diana. There are good moments, sad moments, and everything in between. Join us as we explore the most touching royal family pictures and learn about the most adorable, and not so adorable, moments.

Princess Diana holding Prince Harry | Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images

The life of Princess Diana revealed.

Diana, Princess of Wales, may have died in a car crash on August 31, 1997, but she will forever remain in the hearts of millions. Her story is very sad once you realize that she was perhaps the most alone person in the world. Photographs keep her memory alive and remind us just how much we could learn about her through them.

In rare royal family photos, you can learn a lot about the life of Princess Diana. From holding a young Prince as he photo-bombs a picture by sticking out his tongue, to the Princess smiling beautifully as she switches on the Christmas lights on Bond Street.

Princess Diana | Kent Gavin/Getty Images

True to Princess Dianas heart on her sleeve personality, you can even see her unhappiness. It is visible in many royal pictures that have been taken throughout the years, but one stands out above all others. It is a very famous photo of the royal family Christmas.

The Crown ends an era with an ominous Christmas https://t.co/B2oivChsRX pic.twitter.com/xskUfFF2HO  The A.V. Club (@TheAVClub) November 24, 2020

Rumors are that this photo was taken during a time when she knew her marriage was over. Her loneliness is obvious, even in the crowded room. This Diana Christmas photo was recreated in The Crown, on Netflix.

What will Kate Middletons title be when Prince William becomes King?

Prince William has been very public about his relationship with Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge. Indeed, they do seem like the perfect pair. When on tour, the photos captured of this happy couple, involve her looking at him, smiling and laughing in Ireland.

Prince William and Kate Middleton | Karwai Tang/Getty Images

When visiting Dundee, standing on the waterfront in 2019 greeting the public, the look they share is pure adoration for one another. Their travels and loving looks continue as they visited India and Bhutan while riding on safari in the back of a Jeep.

Prince William and Kate Middleton | Samir Hussein/Getty Images

Prince William is second in line to be the next King of the British Throne. It is rumored that Queen Elizabeth will pass off the throne to her son, Prince Charles. When this happens, likely sometime within the next couple of years, the Duchess of Cambridge will become the Princess of Wales in honor of Prince Williams mother, Diana, Princess of Wales. If Prince Charles decides to pass on the throne to Prince William, Kates title will become Queen Consort.

Is Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth related?

The royal family tree does tend to be confusing, as does the title exchanges that take place amid the royal family. However, their tale begins with much less confusion and what some royal fans believe is the most romantic love story ever. It is a story that spans more than 70-years to the summer of 1939 when Princess Elizabeth, at just 13-years old, first saw the Prince of Greece.

Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth | Topical Press Agency/Getty Images

The prince, just five years older, was about to join the Royal Navy. Elizabeth and her family were on a trip to Dartmouths Britannia Royal Naval College. Though smitten with the young prince, it took eight years for an engagement to be announced.

The wedding would come much sooner. They were married that same year, in November 1947. Sadly, Philip died on April 9, 2021. King Philip and Queen Elizabeth had been happy for a full 74 years. They traveled the world, shared duties, and a love that is timeless.

Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth | Tim Graham/Getty Images

The pair were distant cousins. They were both grandchildren of Queen Victoria, making them third cousins. Although odd for todays standards, it was at one time fairly common among royals, because it ensured the succession of the throne would stay in the family.

RELATED: The 18 Most Iconic British Royal Family Photos of 2019
Merck announced the winners of this years Future Insight Prize. The  1 million prize in the category of Food Generation was awarded today during the Future Insight Days in Darmstadt, Germany, to Ting Lu, Professor of Bioengineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, USA, and Stephen Techtmann, Associate Professor of Biological Sciences at Michigan Technological University, USA. The researchers project uses microbes to first degrade plastic waste and then produce protein from that degraded waste. In addition, during the 2021 Future Insight Days the Spinoff Prize of  30,000 was presented to HighT-Tech, Maryland, USA, one day prior to the Future Insight Prize ceremony.

The winners of this years Future Insight Prize have created a ground-breaking technology with the potential to generate a safe and sustainable source of food while reducing the environmental harms associated with plastic waste and traditional agricultural methods, said Belen Garijo, Chair of the Executive Board and CEO of Merck. We congratulate Ting Lu and Stephen Techtmann for their promising research, and hope that the Future Insight Prize will help to accelerate their efforts.

In my lab, we focus on microbial synthetic biology, which harnesses engineered gene circuits to program microbial cell functionalities for the purpose of uncovering biological design principles and advancing biotechnological applications, said Ting Lu. Environmental microbes are capable of catalyzing a wide array of chemical reactions, many of which may have industrial applications. My lab studies how complex microbial communities can cooperate to perform functions of industrial interest, said Stephen Techtmann. Both prizewinners thanked Merck for the  1 million Future Insight Prize that they were jointly awarded to further their research: Our joint research will allow us to take the plastic waste were generating in the world and turn it into something valuable: food and fuel.

The two researchers named their project From Waste to Food: A Generator of Future Food. It concerns an efficient, economical and versatile technology that converts wastes such as end-of-life plastics into edible foods. These foods contain all the required nutrition, are non-toxic, provide health benefits, and additionally allow for personalization needs. This technology promises to transform waste streams into nutritious food supplements, thus solving the two problems of increasing food scarcity and plastic waste simultaneously. The core of the proposed technology is to harness synthetic microbial consortia  a combination of natural and rationally engineered microorganisms  in order to efficiently convert waste into food. The project will comprise four research goals: proof of concept for direct conversion from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) to protein powder (goal 1), augmentation of biosafety for food and for the environment (goal 2), introduction of nutritional and health-promoting contents (goal 3), and expansion of the technology to include additional plastics or other types of waste (goal 4). The proposed work will establish a transformative basis for food generation.

The Future Insight Prize was first announced by Merck in 2018. It has been awarded annually since 2019 for groundbreaking science for four visionary dream products and is worth up to  1 million:

2019: Pandemic Protection  enabling accelerated protection against newly emerging pathogens (category: Health)

2020: Multi-Drug Resistance Breaker  solving the problem of antibacterial resistance to multiple antibacterials (category: Health)

2021: Food Generation  technology to help feed the worlds growing population (category: Nutrition) by converting any nonedible biomass into readily edible and fully nutritional food

2022: CO2-to-Fuel Converter  generating fuel by photocatalytic conversion of atmospheric CO2 (category: Energy). This category is open to proposals here until December 31, 2021.

In 2019, the very first winners of the Future Insight Prize were Pardis Sabeti from Harvard University and the Broad Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA, and James Crowe from Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA, for their research in the area of pandemic protection. Merck awarded the 2020 Future Insight Prize to Stephan Sieber from the Technical University of Munich, Germany, for his project on a multi-drug resistance breaker.

The Future Insight Days 2021 presented the Spinoff Prize. The Spinoff Prize, established by Nature Research publishers in partnership with Merck to showcase and celebrate global excellence in the commercialization of academic research through the creation of spinoff companies, was presented to HighT-Tech, College Park, Maryland, USA yesterday. The spinoff of the University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins University was founded in 2019 and specializes in disruptive materials science. Magdalena Skipper, Editor-in-Chief of Nature, presented the award worth  30,000. Further finalists yesterday were solar photovoltaic modules start-up Cambridge Photon Technology from Cambridge, UK and regenerative medicine solutions start-up Bilitech and med-tech start-up Neuronostics from Bristol, UK.
This March, the discovery of the toxic natural substance aetocthonotoxin (AETX) attracted huge media attention. In a study published in Science, pharmacists from Halle University proved the role of this substance in triggering mass species extinctions among American bald eagles and other birds of prey. Now, in another first, natural product chemists at the Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry (IPB) have broken new ground in completely synthesizing aetocthonotoxin. This will pave the way to produce the novel toxin in sufficient quantities to study both its biological activity and its impact on human health in more detail.

Aetocthonotoxin (AETX) is an alkaloid that includes several structural peculiarities of stand-out rarity, even among what are sometimes very complex natural products. The substance comprises several ring structures, to which five bromine atoms are coupled. "Creating compounds as complex as this in a test tube is a major challenge for synthetic chemists," commented the study director, Professor Bernhard Westermann. All such hurdles, however, were successfully overcome for AETX, despite the fact that only five reaction steps are involved in synthesizing the toxin. Testament to the design expertise of participating scientists from IPB and MLU.

Alkaloids form a group of plant secondary metabolites featuring great structural diversity and often comprising several carbon rings that contain at least one nitrogen atom. Most are poisonous and very bitter-tasting. Even so, many alkaloid-bearing plants such as belladonna, the opium poppy, arnica and camomile have often been harnessed for medicinal purposes over thousands of years. Incidentally, the patron saint of alkaloids comes from Halle: Namely, the owner of the Lowenapotheke, Carl Friedrich Wilhelm Meiner, who coined the term alkaloid in 1819.

Ever since coming into existence in 1958, the IPB has intensively researched the synthesis and biosynthesis of key alkaloid substances such as morphine, cocaine, THC and ergot alkaloids. Founding director and Leopoldina president Kurt Mothes invited scientists from all over the world to Halle to provide an optimal forum for discussing this interesting substance group. It was on his initiative that International Conferences on the Biochemistry and Physiology of Alkaloids were held in the city in 1960, 1964 and 1969. With AETX synthesis, IPB natural product chemists cement the historic paths of alkaloid research at the institute. Scope to produce the active ingredient synthetically now opens up new potential applications. Because: What separates poison and medicine is often close to imperceptible. Thanks to chemical modifications, AETX compounds with desirable pharmacological properties can often be produced.

Background: AETX is produced from the Aekthonotoxin hydrillicola cyanobacterium, which is found on the leaves of the freshwater plant growing invasively in North America Hydrilla verticillata . The toxin travels through the food chain, starting with herbivores, such as snails and waterfowl, and ending with birds of prey, such as eagles and kites. In the bald eagle, the substance triggers a previously unknown neurodegenerative and fatal disease: vacuolar myelinopathy. The tell-tale sign of the disease is a breakdown of the insulating myelin layers around the nerve fibers of the brain and spinal cord. Whether the toxin is equally harmful to mammals remains unclear.
Dist. 2 Tribal Councilor Joe Byrd will term out of his seat on Aug. 14.
Cherokee Nation officials have been coordinating with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation to get Entering the Cherokee Nation Reservation signage erected.
Linda Fay Adams Jansen, known to many as Nana, went home to dance on the streets of gold July 4th, 2021. She was born in Sweetwater, Texas September 8, 1941 to Obe and Fern (Wood) Durham. Linda wore many hats throughout her life. She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great gra
Anna Klein is excited to vote for change. The 27-year-old evangelical German schoolteacher supported Angela Merkel for chancellor in the last two national elections, but this year, as the long-serving Merkel steps off the political stage, Klein is going to support the Green Partys Annalena Baerbock.

Klein, who lives in the central state of Thuringia, says the September 26 election is historic. And she likes the idea of supporting a woman who could in some ways build on Merkels legacy of responsible leadership and in other ways move in an even more transformational direction.

Her vote, at its base, is informed by her faith.

Im not a conservative person politically, because I am not a conservative person when it comes to religion and its role in my life, Klein said. My understanding of faith is always one of a welcoming, yes-saying approach to change.

Baerbock is seen as an advocate for more dialogue and someone who will provide leadership on environmental issues, refugees, womens rights, and education. Klein resonates with these priorities because of evangelical teachings about loving your neighbor and welcoming the stranger, Jesus respect for women, and the biblical mandates to care for creation.

With the support of younger evangelicals like Klein, the Green Party seems to be pulling ahead in polls. It may garner enough votes to form a coalition government with the conservative bloc, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Christian Social Union (CSU).

The idea of progressive Greens and center-right CDU-CSU governing together, hand in hand, might sound strange. But the environmental protest party has shifted to the mainstream, with a focus on being ...

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Caught in a decades-long battle over LGBT issues, with a proposed denominational split delayed again by the pandemic, dozens of conservative and progressive churches are leaving the United Methodist Church (UMC) without a tidy exit plan.

Two years ago, factions in the United Methodist Church (UMC) agreed on a plan for splitting the denomination with conservative churches keeping their property as they leave. But the UMC has twice postponed its General Conference and won t meet until August 2022 to vote on the proposal, called the Protocol of Reconciliation and Grace Through Separation.

A United Methodist News review of US annual conference reports and publicly available journals found that the 54 conferencesregional UMC governing bodiesapproved at least 51 disaffiliations in 2020. Annual conference reports for 2021 show that the annual conferences have approved 38 disaffiliations so far in 2021.

Though the disaffiliations represent a sliver of the more than 31,000 United Methodist churches nationwide, they show that some churches are willing to take the hard way out of the UMC.

For us, we felt the Lord was leading us to go. As far as the protocol is concerned, it s something that is up in the air, said Alvin Talkington, a member of the disaffiliation team at Boyce Church, a 100-member congregation in Ohio that left the denomination last fall.

The decision to leave came after years of frustration with the East Ohio Conference for not valuing the churchs conservative doctrinal stance on issues such as homosexuality and not finding conservative ministers to serve the church.

Out of the last ten pastors, there might have been three or four who fit our doctrine, said Talkington. The church hired its most recent pastor without the help of the annual conference, and the lay leadership led the effort to disaffiliate.

The move came at a cost to the East Liverpool, Ohio, church.

For centuries the denomination has maintained a trust clause, which states that churches hold property in trust for the entire denomination. To depart with property, churches can use a provision added by the 2019 special session of the General Conference, allowing churches to disaffiliate for reasons of conscience related to human sexuality. This addendum is sometimes called Section 2553.

Even under Section 2553 disaffiliation requires churches to pay hefty financial obligations to their conferences: several years of contributions to the pension and payment of two years of aportionments, money local churches give to support the conference and denomination. Though not specified in Section 2553, some conferences also require churches to pay a percentage of the churchs total assets. The annual conferences must also vote to release a church. But if churches waited until the protocol s approval, they could walk away with their buildings and no major fees.

Leaders at Boyce firmly believed its future was not with the UMC and weren t sure when the protocol would be approved or what the final language would be, so the church disaffiliated under Section 2553 last September. It had to pay a $92,000 fee on the way out.

The protocol provides a way for churches to leave and for pastors to keep their pensions without fees, said John Lomperis, United Methodist director for the Institute on Religion and Democracy. If you go through the protocol, the denomination waives its right to assert the trust clause and churches can keep buildings.

Another church that opted to leave before the protocol vote was the United Church of Altona, now The Grove Community Church of Altona, Illinois.

The church cited concerns over leadership as its reason for disaffiliating and paid over $120,000 to leave the Illinois Great Rivers Conference. The congregation felt like the conference did not support the church as it struggled to find and maintain good pastoral leadership.

We were floundering, and we were afraid if we kept going the way we were, we would keep losing members, said Carla Gibbons, a member of the Grove Community Church disaffiliation team.

Before 2020, the majority of disaffiliating churches have been on the traditional side of the theological spectrum. Most have left citing weariness with the debate or a lack of enforcement of the denomination s bans related to homosexuality.

Some of these churches, like Grace Fellowship Church in Katy, Texas, have found a new home in the conservative Free Methodist Church, while others, like Boyce Church and Grove Community Church, are moving forward as independent churches.

But progressive churches are leaving the UMC, too. In 2020, three Maine churches and one Texas megachurch left the UMC over what they see as LGBT discrimination. Houston s Bering Memorial United Methodist Church left the UMC for the United Church of Christ. New Brackett Church in Peaks Island, Maine, became independent, but the church and its pastor are considering joining both the United Church of Christ and the Unitarian Universalist Association.

We feel that this decision would allow maximum participation from a wide spectrum of people and beliefs in the life of our church, the church website says.

Progressive churches leaving the denomination also consider the Alliance of Baptists and the UK-based Inclusive Church. In June, leaders of Love Prevails, a group of UMC progressive pastors, announced their departure from the denomination.

The Wesleyan Covenant Association, which includes 125,000 people in 1,500 churches, formed to lobby in favor the UMCs traditional marriage stance. Now, the group has become the core of the Global Methodist Church, a conservative denomination to receive departing congregations after the split.

Neither the UMC nor the Global Methodist Church want churches striking out on their own.

Will Willimon, professor at Duke Divinity School, sees how students studying ministry are worried about what the denomination will look like when they are ready to enter it. I think bishops should be pleading with people to please stay, he said.

He wonders if the exodus of churches will force remaining churches and UMC leaders to put the focus back where it needs to be: on local churches ministering in their communities.

I advise people to stay focused on the local mission. This is the basic unit of the church, and maybe if we can recover that, we could be okay, Willimon said.

Lomperis hopes that some of the conservative churches that have left the UMC will eventually join the Global Methodist Church. He understands the frustration churches feel toward conferences that don t value their conservative theology. But rejecting the denominational structure isn t the answer, he said. He hopes that the Global Methodist Church can develop a leaner, less bureaucratic arrangement that gives more power to local congregations.

We strongly discourage any premature quitting and encourage people to wait on the protocol. For those who have left, we hope that later when we get the protocol, they will come join the GMC, he said.

Since leaving the UMC, members of The Grove Community Church have hired a part-time, independent pastor to lead the congregation. Gibbons is encouraged to see attendance up from 20 to 90 in worship, a combination of new families and returning members, even as she acknowledges there is always a honeymoon period with a new pastor.

And members of former UMC churches maintain their appreciation for historic Methodism and its contributions to global Christianity.

The United Methodist Church has probably done more globally than just about any other denomination there is, said Talkington of Boyce Church. They do a lot of good, but this scriptural thingthey are just willing to tear it apart.
Im not sure why I suddenly noticed a new angle. Or why I hadnt seen it in the first place. A few days after my message on the story of Josephs accusation by Potiphars wife, it occurred to me that the biblical narrative describes an ethnic minority being falsely accused of sexual assault against an ethnic majority. Without a trial or evidence, the man was immediately imprisoned. The application now seemed clear, but I had already preached the sermon.

A fellow pastor, Brian Leong from Lords Grace Christian Church in Mountain View, California, observed, Its somewhat dangerous the way I often end up writing sermons in isolation. I could relate.

So last summer, a few of us in the Bay Area set out to change our sermon preparation habitsnot just for the goal of collaboration, but also to seek out diverse perspectives. Several pastors from different ethnic backgrounds prepared a sermon series together to preach in their individual churches to address the political division we were seeing in our communities.

The concept of collaborative sermon preparation is not uncommon in multisite churches or online preaching groups, but as I learned, many pastors could benefit from the insights and empathy gained from cross-cultural and even cross-denominational collaboration.

I wrote a six-week series, and a core team of pastors refined it together. Then as a practical display of the topic, several dozen churches across the San Francisco Bay Area preached on unity through a series we called One Kingdom. Indivisible.

As an additional challenge, we wondered, could we go one step further and prepare the content collaboratively? Several months later, our church began planning to preach through the Book of Lamentations for Lent. After all the pain and grief of the pandemic, it seemed like an obvious choice: a perfectly timed book of the Bible, multiple tensions in our nation, and a deep relationship among pastors.

We formed a group of six pastors to collaboratively study Lamentations and preach it in our individual churches. We ended up being a diverse group: four men and two women. Two white pastors, two Black, and two Asian American. We each studied one section and taught it to each other. While preaching the book in our churches, several of us invited each other to guest preach as well.

Together, we experienced something powerful. At first, it felt like cheating, much like schoolchildren working on homework together. But studying the text in this way opened up a new encounter with the Scriptures. I would like to share five unexpected blessings from our cross-cultural collaborative sermon preparation.

1. New insights from different perspectives

Studying the Scriptures with pastors from different backgrounds led to new insights. In our initial meeting, we looked at the first chapter of Lamentations. The books author compares Jerusalem to a widow, an abandoned lover, a mother, and a prostitute. The two women in our group immediately pointed out the appropriateness of hearing Israels lament in the voice of a woman.

Well of course the women are crying out in anguish, shared Felicia Larson, a Silicon Valley pastor. Who else would feel the pain and devastation more than the women who birthed the nation?

From that first day, it was clear that these colleagues would help me see more than I could have seen on my own. Susan Van Riesen, from Palo Alto Vineyard Church, observed, What a pleasure it was to meet under the big tent and rediscover the Scripture together.

Because of COVID-19 restrictions, we met outdoors under a literal tent, but our group represented a theological and cultural big tent as well. We were Methodist, Vineyard, Baptist, and nondenominational. One Black church, one Chinese church, one recent church plant, and two multiethnic churches. The size of our tent led to new depth of insight.

2. Contextualizing to another congregation

The variety of perspectives didnt only come from the pastors under the tent. We also benefited from hearing the text as our diverse congregants might hear it. When I study, the lives and experiences of the people of my church become a backdrop for application. But reading the text with other pastors enlarged the scope of that backdrop tenfold. I wasnt just seeing the text through the eyes of my fellow pastor. I was hearing it through the ears of her congregants.

Brian Leong felt a similar way. To be able to understand how people anticipate the reactions from their own churches was eye-opening to me, he said. There are things I could say to my church that another pastor could never say to their church and vice versa.

But we didnt have to just imagine preaching to another congregation. Most of us preached (virtually) at each others churches. Speaking on the same passage to my church as well as a Chinese American church demanded a new awareness of what was being heard by my listeners.

3. Learning to practice what I preach

The benefits didnt end with the study group. Our preaching was transformed as well. My people saw me practicing what I preach. Over the past years of facing division in our community and our church, one word has come up repeatedly in my biblical application: listen. Listen to those who think differently than you. Listen to those who come from another background. Listen carefully. Listen nonjudgmentally.

When the people in my church see me listening to other pastors, they witness me demonstrating the very action Ive been exhorting to them. Collaboration in the community models what we hope for within our own congregations. But listening often grows into friendship. Susan and Felicia both commented on the benefit of having more than one woman on the team, and Susan referenced the friendship that resulted: To have fellowship and partnership with another woman pastor of color is a very special gift!

At first, I worried that my church disproportionately reaped the rewards of other perspectives. But when I asked Kaloma Smith from University AME Zion church in Palo Alto what he received, he said, Its easy to frame the white evangelical church in a certain way. Its easy to frame the Asian church in a certain way. But to sit and study and work through a sermon together breaks apart those preconceived notions.

4. Inviting my people along on the journey

What made this practice particularly powerful was recognizing my own inadequacy. I was not sharing something I had learned long ago. I was inviting my people along on a journey of recognizing what I had missed in the text.

My assignment was to study Lamentations 4. As I interpreted the poem, I saw Gods people being displaced, oppressed, violated, and dejected. Had I been studying Lamentations in my office, I likely would have come up with an abstract or spiritualized application for my mostly upper-class, educated congregation. But while reading alongside brothers and sisters of color, I could not miss the overlap with their very real and concrete experience.

As I preached this passage to my church, I shared not only the new perspective I had come to, but the process of getting to it. No one ever masters seeing the text from new angles.

5. Offering a truer picture of God

The final benefit is the most important of all. If our goal when we preach Scripture is to reveal the glory and majesty of God, then anything that helps us to manifest God more clearly is invaluable. Other perspectives, fresh ears, and the process of growth only matter if they give the people in our churches a truer and fuller picture of God.

In this regard, lament was particularly powerful for all of our churches to experience. Even apart from different perspectives, lament is an underdeveloped muscle of the American evangelical church. As Felicia observed, for a mostly white congregation, it was necessary for lament to come alive, whereas for congregations with many people of color, the need might be permission to lament.

In the end, we allowed this text to train us in the practice of lament in the varied experiences in our communities. What began as an experiment turned into an opportunity to behold the glory of God and his diverse kingdom as revealed in his Scripturescontributing to both our sanctification and the spiritual formation of our congregations.

Paul Taylor is a teaching pastor and elder at Peninsula Bible Church in Palo Alto, California.
Afghanistan withdrawal: Theres hope yet in these remaining forces

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After nearly two decades of war in Afghanistan, over 6000 Americans have lost their lives, and almost $1 trillion US taxpayer dollars have been spent without much to show for it politically or economically. However, US resources and political determination ensured the advancement of women and girls in an otherwise repressive Islamic state and created innovative ways to spread the Gospel of Christ in land previously closed off to Christianity.

I served in the US Embassy in Afghanistan back in 2004 as a political advisor. My task was to help create a civil society infrastructure that would be the first line of defense against the Taliban's Islamic radicalization and indoctrination of the youth. There were plenty of financial resources from US agencies, non-profits, and even foreign allies to build new institutions. Still, we quickly learned that our most significant obstacles would be mismanagement, security threats, and corruption. It seemed like a perpetual state of chaos because Americans were eager to accomplish the mission, but a never-ending series of setbacks made progress virtually impossible.

I will never forget being in a staff meeting while US AID representatives presented on one of the "newly built" schools in one of the most dangerous regions of Afghanistan. It wasn't ten minutes into the impressive PowerPoint that a senior US diplomat, a native Afghan, got up and started screaming at the presenter that this school did not exist! This diplomat had gone in a helicopter just days before, specifically looking for this school after our Afghan counterparts' claims of deceit and corruption. The USAID rep looked shocked and confused. It was clear from his face he didn't intend to deceive anyone purposely, but most regions in Afghanistan were too dangerous to travel directly. Hence, our folks depended on data provided by foreign allies, locals, and our contractors who had a self-interest in stretching the truth. Also, development projects relied on multi-million dollar private security contractors to operate safely, but that money often went back into the Taliban, who were causing the security problem in the first place. It was like this old adage: the road to hell is paved with good intentions.

Though billions of dollars were being siphoned off by corrupt contractors, inept aid organizations, and government bureaucracy, the effort to empower Afghan women with access to education, employment, and the media was thriving. For the first time in decades, Afghan girls were back in school, and international organizations created jobs and networking opportunities for eloquent and courageous Afghan women. I spoke on defeating Islamic radicalism and building civil society institutions at many international and US events to encourage these women. I was always struck by the level of personal risk they were willing to endure for freedom and the chance at a better future. As a nation, Americans should be proud of the legacy of opportunity we created despite our many missteps. Moreover, as reported by Emily Wood in her interview with General Boykin for CP, it may be these women that pose the most lethal threat to the Taliban's desire to return Afghanistan to draconian policies of Islamic law.

My professional and personal experience with Afghanistan occurred when I was a practicing Muslim, but now as a follower of Christ, my perspective has an entirely different focus. Like others who invested time, toil and treasure on failed political and social change, I am disappointed in those failures. But my continued hope is in the seeds of faith in Christ that were planted along the way. Though active missionary work was and continues to be prohibited in Afghanistan, and even possessing a physical Bible is dangerous, the underground house church continued to grow. As one report noted, "there are mullahs who have come to Christ through supernatural means who have hundreds of followers. Some former Taliban members who have found forgiveness and new life in Christ are staring death in the face and sharing the Lord with other Taliban fighters and leaders." However, the most significant form of evangelizing came through the internet and social media. The international presence in Afghanistan meant powerful internet capabilities had to be established, and the Lord clearly used those channels to reach the people. Also a former Muslim, Isik Ibla Ministries, reported some of their most significant Facebook engagements and followers are from Kabul, Afghanistan.

I am not surprised the internet has been the most powerful tool of evangelism for Afghans because it is how I also met Christ. I was disillusioned with Islam and started watching a charismatic pastor on Youtube after seeing a Twitter post. I did not step foot in a church or have any Christian friends who witnessed me, and I was drawn to Christ through a screen. If you ever doubt that Christ can reach a person anywhere in the world, through any means necessary, then you should spend more time with former Muslims! The Lord reveals Himself in the most extraordinary ways to reach people who are hungry for the Truth. I have several former Muslim friends, including an Afghan woman, who had other miraculous encounters with Christ that brought them to faith, despite tremendous personal risk.

So though the current withdrawal of troops is a bittersweet moment in American history as we assess our failures and miscalculations, we should celebrate the victories for women and the spreading of the Gospel. It may well be these two forces that change the future of Afghanistan forever.
Bidens DHS warns Cubans against attempting to flee to the US: Do not risk your life

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The Biden administration said it won't allow Cuban refugees to enter the United States by maritime migration, as protests against the communist regime in Cuba continue to unfold.

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas gave a press briefing on Tuesday about the current state of the U.S. Maritime Migrant Interdiction Operations.

Mayorkas, a native of Cuba who was the first Latino to serve as secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, said in his remarks that the administration supports the Cuban protesters, but such an attempt to enter the U.S. was "unsafe and illegal."

We also stand in solidarity with the Cuban people and their call for freedom from the repression and economic suffering that the Cubans authoritarian regime is causing, he said.

From there, Mayorkas said that Cubans using unpermitted vessel departures from Florida to Cuba would also not be permitted to enter the U.S.

The time is never right to attempt migration by sea. To those who risk their lives doing so, this risk is not worth taking, he continued. Allow me to be clear: if you take to the sea, you will not come to the United States.

If individuals make, establish a well-founded fear of persecution or torture, they are referred to third countries for resettlement, Mayorkas said, reiterating that they will be denied entry into the U.S.

Again, I repeat: Do not risk your life attempting to enter the United States illegally."

Mayorkas said the reasons for the Biden administration's ban on entering the U.S. by sea centered on safety concerns, such as dangerous weather.

The waters in the Straits of Florida in the Caribbean are dangerous, especially now as we have entered hurricane season. People will die, noted the Homeland Security secretary.

The transit is dangerous and unforgiving. We have seen 20 lives lost in recent weeks, as a result of these dangerous voyages. In addition, the threat of serious illness when boarding vessels in subpar conditions is greater at this time, during a pandemic.

Recently, protests have broken out in Cuba, inflamed by problems such as an economic downturn and ongoing shortages of necessities like medical supplies and food.

Cuban President Diaz-Canel reportedly told the communist country on national television that the protesters should be confronted, and blamed U.S. sanctions for their economic woes.

The protests have been met with repression by government authorities, including police firing on demonstrators, large-scale arrests, and blackouts on internet access.

Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., a Cuban-American and strong supporter of the protesters, has criticized the Biden administrations response to the Cuban protests.

Heres the bottom line, said Rubio in an interview on Fox News. This administrations response has been lame. It has been lame on this whole issue.

I wish they had half the passion that they have for going after Republican state legislatures, and Republican governors, and Republican members of Congress. I wish they had half the passion that they have against Republicans that they do against the tyranny of Cuba.

Erika Guevara-Rosas, Americas director at Amnesty International, released a statement Monday denouncing the measures taken by the communist government against the demonstrators.

Instead of repressing the population, the Cuban authorities have an obligation to protect their right to demonstrate peacefully, stated Guevara-Rosas.

The Diaz-Canel government must address the social demands of its citizens, given the economic crisis, the shortages of food and medicine, the collapse of the health system  which is not responding to the current COVID-19 crisis  and the accumulation of historical demands for respect of the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.

The U.S. hasn't seen a rise in the number of Cubans attempting to reach the U.S. by sea, despite the concerns raised by Mayoras which he said also applied to Haitians.

Although the U.S. designated Haiti for Temporary Protected Status in May for 18 months, it only applies to Haitians who are already in the country.
BLM under fire for praising Cuba, condemning US as Cubans protest communist regime

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Black Lives Matter is under fire for praising Cubas government and criticizing the United States as the island country is in political upheaval and Cubans are demanding freedom after years of communist suppression.

Thousands of outraged Cubans have protested in the streets for days as they fight for freedom from a communist regime and struggle with food shortages and price surges.

Black Lives Matter blamed this on the United States, which led to criticism of the activist organization.

Black Lives Matter condemns the U.S. federal governments inhumane treatment of Cubans, and urges it to immediately lift the economic embargo, BLM stressed in a statement released Wednesday.

This cruel and inhumane policy, instituted with the explicit intention of destabilizing the country and undermining Cubans right to choose their own government, is at the heart of Cubas current crisis."

BLMs statement was slammed on social media by many, including Republican Texas Sen.Ted Cruz, R-Texas., the son of a Cuban immigrant. He called the statement shameful.

... The group Black Lives Matter (funded by major players in corporate America) was founded by avowed Marxists and  as millions of Cubans risk their lives to rise up for freedom  BLM stands with  the communist dictatorship, Cruz tweeted.

Republican Sen. Marco Rubio, a Cuban American, also criticized BLMs praise of the communist regime in Cuba.

The extortionist ring known as the Black Lives Matter organization took a break today from shaking down corporations for millions & buying themselves mansions to share their support for the Communist regime in #Cuba," Rubio tweeted.

The extortionist ring known as the Black Lives Matter organization took a break today from shaking down corporations for millions & buying themselves mansions to share their support for the Communist regime in #Cubahttps://t.co/xir94EIJ4X  Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) July 15, 2021

Hillel Neuer, a Canadian-born international lawyer and executive director of United Nations Watch, accused BLM of siding with the oppressor, pointing out how in Cuba, a repressive regime is firing on peaceful protesters.

In Cuba, a repressive regime is firing on peaceful protesters.



In America, the organization Black Lives Matter @Blklivesmatter just sided with the oppressor. https://t.co/AkL9pLBSMGhttps://t.co/HHRJhg6naspic.twitter.com/XShBJwA4go  Hillel Neuer (@HillelNeuer) July 15, 2021

Republican Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley stated how BLM is supporting Cubas brutal & oppressive dictatorship.

BLM claimed the U.S. has forced pain and suffering on the people of Cuba since the 1960s by cutting off food, medicine and supplies.

BLM also alleged the people of Cuba are being punished by the U.S. government because the country has maintained its commitment to sovereignty and self-determination, saying U.S. leaders tried to crush this Revolution for decades.

The organization also praised Cuba for showing solidarity with "oppressed peoples of African descent" and "protecting Black revolutionaries."

The activist organization said the American government instigated suffering for the island country of around 11 million people due to the economic embargo, which restricts commercial activities between the U.S. and Cuba.

President John F. Kennedy imposed the embargo in February 1962 in response to actions by the Cuban government.

Now, we look to President Biden to end the embargo, something Barack Obama called for in 2016, BLM said. This embargo is a blatant human rights violation and it must come to an end.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel recognized the government was partly to blame for the country's dire situation but also blamed the U.S. for its cruel embargo, NBC News reported.

The Biden administration has failed to denounce Cubas oppressive communist regime in the wake of the protests.

It really is powerful to see that those protestors as they walk down the streets of Havana, theyre waving American flags, Cruz said on Fox News on Thursday.

The same thing the protesters in Hong Kong were waving because the American flag across the globe is a symbol of freedom, and the American leadership ought to be standing with those who are oppressed and standing up for freedom."

The protests in Cuba are not about mismanagement.



They are about the people in Cuba fighting for freedom.#SOSCubapic.twitter.com/ekLFwoqRVw  Senator Ted Cruz (@SenTedCruz) July 15, 2021

Cruz called on the Biden administration to call out the evil communist dictatorship of Cuba.

The people protesting in the streets in Cuba are not protesting mismanagement, Cruz tweeted. They're not chanting manage better. They're chanting libertad. They're chanting freedom. But Biden & Harris are unwilling to speak plainly and say the communist dictatorship in Cuba is evil.

Rubio warned there would be a bloodbath [in Cuba] 90 miles off our shores if the U.S. does not mobilize an international response.

In the past, some have voiced concern about the BLM co-founders past admittance that she and another co-founder are trained Marxists."
Election integrity or voter suppression? 5 things to know about Texas voting bill

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Texas has garnered national attention over the debate on legislation that would modify its state election standards in various ways.

Gov. Greg Abbott called the Texas Legislature to a special session for the summer to pass election reform legislation, specifically House Bill 3 and Senate Bill 1.

Democrat state legislators made headlines when they decided to flee the state for Washington, D.C., rather than allow for a quorum at the state House of Representatives.

Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa issued a statement on Monday defending the legislators' actions, claiming they were protecting voting rights against the attacks of the Republican governor.

Today, by breaking quorum to block Abbotts attacks on voters, Texas Democrats are making history. After Abbott dragged lawmakers back to the Capitol for his suppression session, Democrats are fighting back with everything weve got, stated Hinojosa.

We will not stand by and watch Republicans slash our right to vote, silence the voices of Texans of color, and destroy our democracy  all to preserve their own power. Our lawmakers have refused to be complicit in Republicans destructive attacks.

Nevertheless, the Republican-controlled state Senate passed its version of the legislation, known as Senate Bill 1, on Tuesday in a vote of 18-4, sending the bill to the state House of Representatives.

I am very proud that the Texas Senate passed Senate Bill 1 today. SB 1 is about ensuring that every Texan trusts the outcome of every election in Texas. It increases transparency and ensures the voting rules are the same in every county across the state, stated Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, as quoted by KHOU-11.

Both public and private polling indicates that the majority of Texans support the provisions included in SB 1, and yet, House Democrats were so intent on using this bill for political gain that they left the state to avoid voting on it. They are in Washington, D.C., repeating misinformation and lies about SB 1. Instead of doing their jobs, they are pushing Congress to pass a federal election bill Texans dont want.

Here are five important things to know about the legislation being debated in Texas aimed at reforming state election laws. They include how the latest bills contrast with an earlier proposed measure, how drive-thru voting is impacted, and a ban on 24-hour voting that took place for the first time ever in Harris County during the 2020 presidential election.
Parents sue DC over 'reckless,' 'unconstitutional' law to vaccinate kids without parental consent

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Parents in Washington, D.C., have filed a lawsuit against the District over a new law that allows officials to vaccinate children in public schools without parental consent, even if they have a religious objection.

The municipal regulation, known as the "Minor Consent to Vaccinations Act of 2020," was passed by the council in a vote of 10-3 in November and went into effect on March 19. It enables children ages 11 and older to consent to a vaccine if they are deemed "capable of meeting the informed consent standard" and "... able to comprehend ... significant risks ordinarily inherent in the medical care."

Under the law, students can have vaccines administered to them without their parents' knowledge because insurance providers are required to "seek reimbursement, without parental consent ..."

Insurance companies are also prohibited from sending parents an "Explanation of Benefits" detailing the medical service their child received. Yet children will be given access to their immunization records "without parental consent."

Childrens Health Defense and the Parental Rights Foundation filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District for the District of Columbia on behalf of four parents who have religious objections to their children getting COVID-19 vaccinations and say the mandate is unconstitutional.

The D.C. Act is reckless, unconstitutional, and needlessly endangers childrens lives by stripping away parental protection and the protection of the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986, said Mary Holland, president and general counsel of the Childrens Health Defense, in a statement.

The Minor Consent Act subverts the right and duty of parents to make informed decisions about whether their children should receive vaccinations, by both depriving them of the opportunity to make those decisions and by concealing from parents that their children have been asked to consent to vaccinations or may have indeed been vaccinated, the lawsuit claims.

Officials named in the lawsuit against the District include: Mayor Muriel Bowser; Laquandra Nesbitt, the director of the Department of Health; and Lewis Ferebee, chancellor of the District of Columbia Public Schools.

Though District of Columbia Public Schools is not requiring students to receive the COVID-19 vaccine before classes start in the fall, DCPS would be able to administer the vaccine to eligible children under the Minor Consent Act.

The lawsuit also states that the Minor Consent Act creates two health records for students, such as for those whose parents have a religious exemption for the HPV vaccine. The immunization record available to parents is blank, while the childs actual medical history, including vaccinations, is kept private from parents but is accessible to their children.

On its face, the Minor Consent Act circumvents parents decisions to claim a religious exemption pursuant to D.C., the lawsuit states.

Ferebee, chancellor of the DCPS, sent an email to DCPS parents on May 14 saying it was their responsibility to get vaccinated if they want to see their children back in school.

While the COVID-19 vaccine is currently not required for students to attend school next year, we encourage all students age 12 and older and their parents and caregivers to get vaccinated, the email from the chancellor read.

If you want to see students back in school, then it is our responsibility as a community for everyone to receive the COVID-19 vaccine when its available to them. We are collaborating with local health officials to host vaccination clinics at our schools, the email continued.

In another email sent on June 1, Ferefee wrote: The science is clear: Vaccines are the single most effective tool we have to stop the spread of the coronavirus. To help meet our commitment to fully reopen schools for every student, every day in the fall, it is our responsibility as a community to get vaccinated, including our middle school and high school students.

Mary Cheh, a council member and sponsor of the Minor Consent Act, said before the District's Committee on Health that anti-science beliefs of parents are putting their unvaccinated children at risk.

Unfortunately, we see a rising number of individuals or families across the globe, really, who are choosing not to vaccinate their children based on the widely disproven belief that vaccines may cause autism or other harmful health effects, Cheh said.

These anti-science beliefs not only put the unvaccinated children at risk, but have led to the spread of diseases that have been all but eradicated in the past, she continued.

DCPS opened walk-in vaccination clinics in four schools to offer the vaccine to anyone 12 years old and older.

Bowser announced all schools in the District would be fully reopened for in-person learning, five days a week, for every student starting on Aug. 30.

Shanita Williams, one of the parents named in the lawsuit, said she fears she cannot send her two children back to school in the fall without subjecting her children to receive the vaccine, despite her religious objection to it.

Another parent, Shameka Williams, worries her children will be pressured to consent to the vaccine.

Reports are surfacing of adverse effects to the vaccine, especially in young adults and adolescents. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is now tracking cases of heart inflammation associated with the mRNA coronavirus vaccine.

Dr. Robert Malone, an mRNA pioneer, has said he believes the "benefits probably don't outweigh the risks for younger Americans contemplating whether to get vaccinated.

The CDC released an update on Tuesday called Reported Adverse Events that lists anaphylaxis, thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome, myocarditis and pericarditis, and reports of death as adverse but rare side effects of the COVID-19 vaccines, which are not FDA-approved but authorized for emergency use.
Pastor is key suspect in assassination of Haitian president, but many say hes innocent

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Christian Emmanuel Sanon, a 62-year-old Haitian-born American pastor and medical doctor who has lived in the United States since the late 1970s, has been named by local authorities as one of the key suspects in the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise. However, the pastor, along with many who know him, says he is innocent.

Its obvious hes being framed, Sanons brother, Jean Sanon, told DailyMail.com from his home in West Palm Beach, Florida.

An unnamed source told CNN that Sanon was arrested over the weekend during a police raid in a hilltop neighborhood in the capital Port-au-Prince, a stone's throw away from the residence of acting Prime Minister Claude Joseph, who currently leads the country.

Police found boxes of ammunition and holsters for rifles and pistols, 24 unused shooting targets, a cap labeled "DEA" and four Dominican Republic license plates inside a complex with a sign that said "International Medical Village" on the door.

The source told CNN that during the raid, Sanon told police he had no knowledge of the attack on Moise and he had no idea the building held the weapons found by police. He further stated that he was a Christian pastor and the property was not his.

Leon Charles, head of Haitis National Police, told reporters on Sunday that Sanon and several Colombians arrived in Haiti in June with political objectives. He explained that the plan was just to arrest Moise, but "the mission then changed."

The late Haitian president was assassinated in an attack on his private residence in the hills above Port-au-Prince at about 1 a.m. local time on July 7, the BBC reported. Magistrate Carl Henry Destin told Le Nouvelliste newspaper that Moise died at the scene, his body riddled with 12 bullet wounds. He further noted that the president's office and bedroom were ransacked and he was found lying on his back covered in blood.

Some 26 Colombians and two other Haitian-Americans have also been arrested in connection with Moises assassination after a gun battle in Haiti following the attack.

"When we the police blocked the progress of these bandits after they committed their crime, the first person that one of the assailants called was Charles Emmanuel Sanon, Charles said. "He contacted two other people that we consider to be the masterminds of the assassination of President Jovenel Moise.

A recent letter to Julie Chung, acting assistant secretary for the State Department's Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, signed The People of Haiti and cited by DailyMail.com, complained about the dangers of Moises leadership and lobbied for Sanon to replace him.

Our own democracy has now been taken. We are no longer free but instead are controlled by the authoritarianism of Jovenel Moise, the letter said.

Moise was killed as he pursued an aggressive agenda that included rewriting the countrys constitution  a move not supported by the U.S. and some local religious leaders, The New York Times reported. Critics feared that he was setting the country down a path toward authoritarian rule and threatening the nation's democracy.

The late president had been known to use gangs to repress political opponents, according to the U.S. government. Last year, the U.S. Treasury sanctioned two senior Haitian officials for allegedly planning the 2018 La Saline massacre, The Wall Street Journal reported. In that massacre, civilians, including children, were taken from their homes and executed in the streets. Their bodies were then burned and dismembered, the U.S. Treasury said.

Sanon, through a website called Haitianlivesmatter.com, had been calling for Moises removal from office and the institution of himself as interim leader. A letter to Chung, acting assistant secretary for the State Department's Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, warned that if the late presidents administration was also allowed to organize pending elections, the process would not be fair.

Haitians are thoroughly convinced that even IF elections were ever organized by the current administration, these elections would not be fair and therefore they would compound the current crisis, it said. Thus, as you say, Haiti is paralyzed': no elections cause chaos, but, fair elections organized by the current administration are widely believed to be unrealistic. Therefore ... Haiti needs a transitional government to restore Haiti's democracy and freedom.

Joseph Sanon, another of the pastors brothers, did not dispute that his brother was pushing for political change. He said, however, that the pastor is not a killer and defended him as a godly man.

It would be good for the truth to come out. It would be good for there to be more information to know exactly whats going on, Joseph Sanon told DailyMail.com. We are praying, asking the Lord to show us. I want to know the truth. I'm desperate to know it.

According to The New York Times, Pastor Sanon filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Florida in 2013, a move that would have made it challenging to hire mercenaries to carry out the attack on the late Haitian president.

Parnell Duverger, a retired adjunct economics professor at Broward College in Florida, attended about 10 meetings on Zoom and in-person with Sanon and other experts to discuss Haitis future government. He told The New York Times that he believed the pastor would become the next prime minister of Haiti, but stressed he couldnt see him as an assassin.

At the time of the meetings he was, we all believed, going to become a prime minister, the 70-year-old Duverger told the publication. I keep asking myself, there must be something wrong with me for being so naive. I believed him. I believed that because I believed a new transitional government was needed in Haiti.

The Rev. Larry Caldwell, a Florida pastor who once worked with Sanon to set up churches and medical clinics in Haiti, also told The Associated Press that he did not see the pastor as a killer.

"I know the character of the man," Caldwell said. "You take a man like that and you're then going to say he participated in a brutal crime of murder, knowing that being associated with that would send him to the pits of hell? ... If there was one man who would be willing to stand in the breach to help his country, it would be Christian."
Senate unanimously passes bill banning all products from Xinjiang over China's Uyghur genocide

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A measure to ban all products from Chinas Xinjiang province, known for its crimes against humanity and ongoing Uyghur Muslim genocide, unanimously passed the U.S. Senate on Wednesday.

The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, bipartisan legislation sponsored by Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., and Sen. Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., will ensure goods produced using forced labor imposed by the Chinese Communist Party in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region will not enter the United States market.

The message to Beijing and any international company that profits from forced labor in Xinjiang is clear: no more, Rubio said in a statement. We will not turn a blind eye to the CCPs ongoing crimes against humanity, and we will not allow corporations a free pass to profit from those horrific abuses.

Merkley said the Senate sent a clear message that the U.S. will not be complicit in the Uyghur Muslim genocide by Chinas government.

Uyghurs and other predominantly Muslim ethnic minorities in Xinjiang are being forced into labor, tortured, imprisoned, forcibly sterilized, and pressured to abandon their religious and cultural practices by the Chinese government, Merkley said in a statement.

No American corporation should profit from these abuses. No American consumers should be inadvertently purchasing products from slave labor, the Democrat continued.

The senators called for the House to act quickly to pass the legislation. The bill must pass the House of Representatives before it goes to the White House.

Once this bill passes the House and is signed by the President, the United States will have more tools to prevent products made with forced labor from entering our nations supply chains, Rubio said. We cannot afford any further delay, and I call on my colleagues in the House to promptly send this bill to the President.

Congressional aides said they expect the measure to receive support in the House since the lower chamber unanimously passed similar legislation last year, Fox News reported.

Rubio also authored the Uyghur Human Rights Policy Act of 2020, which was the first piece of Uyghur human rights legislation to be signed into law in the world. The law imposes sanctions on individuals and entities responsible for human rights abuses in Xinjiang and requires various reports on the topic.

China is engaged in mass internment, forced labor, forced sterilization and persecution of minority Uyghur Muslims in the Xinjiang Province. Estimates have suggested that as many as 1 million to 3 million Uyghur and other ethnic Muslim minorities are imprisoned in Chinese internment camps where they are said to undergo brainwashing to make them more culturally Chinese.

These abuses were declared a genocide and crime against humanity by the U.S. government under the Trump administration in January and reaffirmed by the Biden administration after taking office.

Many have called for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing due to the CCPs human rights abuses and oppression of Uyghur Muslims. International human rights activists have also criticized the Chinese government for its religious freedom violations targeting Christians, Falun Gong practitioners and Tibetan Buddhists.

Former Vice President Mike Pence called on President Joe Biden to call for the Winter Olympics to be moved out of Beijing during a U.S.-China relations speech at the Heritage Foundation on Wednesday.

President Biden should make a clear and unequivocal demand that the 2022 Winter Olympics be moved from Beijing unless China comes clean on the origins of COVID-19 and immediately ends persecution of the Uyghur people, Pence said.

The Olympics should only take place in countries that respect fundamental human rights and the well-being of mankind, he continued.

In April, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said an Olympics boycott was not being discussed by the Biden administration.

The U.S. State Department lists China as a country of particular concern for its systematic, ongoing, [and] egregious violations of human rights and religious freedom.

Former U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom Commissioner Johnnie Moore said the world largely ignored the dire situation in the Uyghur province, which has only exacerbated over time.

This is not the time to give the Chinese Communist Party one inch. , Moore, an evangelical author, public relations executive and president of Congress of Christian Leaders, said in April. This issue is an issue that sits alone in its severity and its impact, and we speak with one concerted voice on [its severity].
UMC conference seizes assets of Georgia megachurch trying to leave denomination

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A regional body of the United Methodist Church has seized control of the assets of a Georgia megachurch trying to leave the mainline Protestant denomination.

The leadership of the UMC North Georgia Conference unanimously voted to approve the seizure of assets belonging to Mt. Bethel United Methodist Church, a Marietta-based congregation with approximately 10,000 members.

In April, Mt. Bethel voted to begin a process of discernment for leaving the UMC due to the conferences decision to remove its senior pastor from his position and what they viewed as the overall direction of the denomination.

An announcement Monday explains that the conference undertook the measure out of love for the church and its mission, citing exigent circumstances for the decision.

Given this determination, all assets of the local church have transferred immediately to the Conference Board of Trustees of the North Georgia Conference, the statement reads.

These conference agencies have taken action to preserve the legacy of the Mt. Bethel church and its longstanding history of mission and ministry.

The regional body quoted from the UMC Book of Discipline. The book lists that among the responsibilities of the Conference Broad of Trustees is to intervene and take all necessary legal steps to safeguard and protect the interests and rights of the annual conference anywhere and in all matters relating to property and rights to property whether arising by gift, devise, or otherwise, or where held in trust or established for the benefit of the annual conference or its membership.

The Trustees will assume management of the church, the announcement continues. Employment, instruction, activities, and worship at the church and Academy will continue, but under the direction and control of the Conference Board of Trustees.

In response, Mt. Bethel UMC posted a denunciation of the decision on their FAQ page, taking issue with the claim by North Georgia Bishop Sue Haupert-Johnson and the conference of there being exigent circumstances."

The church pointed to examples of the contrary, including them having a vibrant and growing congregation, financial stability and adhering to Book of Discipline rules regarding clergy.

Despite an unresolved formal complaint, Mt. Bethel has agreed to accept appointed clergy under protest given that said proposal has been approved by the North Georgia Conference and is now official, stated the church.

Mt. Bethel has not violated the Discipline by hiring its preaching pastor, nor has it allowed uncredentialed use of the Pulpit. Moreover, any prior unauthorized or uncredentialed use of the Pulpit could not constitute future exigent circumstances now that Mt. Bethel has accepted the appointment of Senior Pastor Dr. Steven Usry.

The church's website reports that the bishop's claim of "exigent circumstances" has been "refuted in complaints that are presently under review by a higher authority within the Southeast Jurisdiction College of Bishops of the United Methodist Church."

"As such, her actions are in disobedience to the order and discipline of the UMC," the FAQ page argues.

On April 18, the Mt. Bethel Administrative Council voted unanimously to enter into the disaffiliation process after the conference reassigned lead pastor, Jody Ray, to another position.

In the UMC, pastors are typically assigned to churches for one year at a time, with the likelihood of being assigned to a different congregation or another role happening on an annual basis. Ray served with Mt. Bethel for over five years but was reassigned to an "evolving conference position having to do with racial reconciliation."

Given the recent actions of our bishop and the direction of the United Methodist denomination, both the leadership and members of Mt. Bethel Church strongly believe it is time for us to part ways with the denomination, a church spokesperson told The Christian Post in April.

We believe this process could be accomplished in a matter of months if the Bishop and the North Georgia Annual Conference are willing to enter into an amicable and orderly disaffiliation.

Mt. Bethel also filed a complaint against the North Georgia Conference before the UMC Southeastern Jurisdiction College of Bishops, accusing the conference of interfering with the church's ministerial efforts.

The conference has defended the decision to reassign Ray, providing CP with a copy of a pastoral letter by the bishop justifying the action.

The reassignment of a pastor is not done out of spite. The placement of a pastor is not done as a form of punishment. The reassignment of a pastor is not designed to persecute, wrote Bishop Haupert-Johnson.

Instead, the process is begun with the goal of matching the gifts and graces of a particular pastor with the ministry needs of a particular congregation and community in a particular season.
Uyghur woman tearfully recalls 'inhumane' treatment in Chinas brutal concentration camps

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WASHINGTON  A Uyghur tearfully recalled her time in a Chinese concentration camp in a speech before religious freedom advocates, telling them that her experience left indelible scars on my heart.

Tursunay Ziyawudun addressed the International Religious Freedom Summit on Wednesday, one of several survivors of religious persecution to share their stories. As a Uyghur living in China, she was subject to especially harsh treatment from the Chinese Communist Party, which is detaining members of the ethnic minority in concentration camps in an effort to strip them of their culture and identity and turn them into loyal servants of the state.

I was locked up in camps two different times. The second time was even more inhumane than the first, and my experiences in these Chinese camps have left indelible scars on my heart, she said.

I was taken into a camp for the second time in March 2018 and stayed there for close to one year. There were many new buildings in the camp, which looked similar to a prison, and many cameras and people inside. We could always see armed police officers. Sometimes they showed us propaganda films, sometimes they taught us Chinese law, sometimes they taught us Chinese red songs, and sometimes they made us swear oaths of loyalty to the Chinese Communist Party, she added.

According to Ziyawudun, In the camp, we always lived in fear. We passed the days in fear, listening to the sounds of screaming and crying voices, wondering whether what was happening to them would happen to us too.

Ziyawudun and other detained Uyghur women were also subject to rape in the concentration camps, part of a pattern of abuse at the hands of the guards: Once they took me out alongside a young woman in her 20s. Next to the camp police officers, there was a man in a suit, wearing a mask over his mouth. I cant even remember what time of night it was. They raped the young women. Three Han police officers raped me as well.

They were always taking girls out of the cells like this. They did whatever they wanted. Sometimes they brought some of the women back near the point of death. Some of the women disappeared.

Echoing comments she made in a previous interview with the BBC, Ziyawudun asserted that some of the women lost their minds in the camp. Additionally, she maintained, I saw some of them bleed to death with my own eyes.

As years have passed since her harrowing ordeal in the concentration camp, Ziyawudun explained that while my physical body is free, and so is my voice, she is suffering deeply as a result of nightmares about her detention. She has since resettled in the U.S., with the help of the U.S. government and the Uyghur Human Rights Project.

Although these memories make Ziyawuduns heart feel as though its been sliced with a dagger, she feels obligated to tell her story: I have to speak out, because the things that I experienced in the camps are happening to my fellow Uyghurs. Millions of Uyghurs are suffering and they are alive only because they have the hope and belief that there is justice in this world.

As a survivor, I will not stop  not even for one minute  being a voice for all the people who have not survived, and for the people in East Turkistan who are trapped in a hellscape, placing their hope in the outside world, she vowed. Ziyawudun concluded her remarks by pleading with the audience to save my people from this oppression, adding, I hope you can do something to secure their freedom.

In an introductory video that preceded Ziyawuduns remarks, a translator speaking on behalf of the victim of religious persecution illustrated the magnitude of the Chinese governments brutal campaign of assimilation by force, noting that 1 [million] to 3 million Uyghurs and other Turkic Muslims have been detained in concentration camps since 2016. In addition to rape, concentration camp detainees are subject to forced labor and forced sterilization.

Later, Samantha Power, the administrator for the U.S. Agency for International Development, told the story of another Uyghur woman who was subject to the concentration camps, Zumret Dawut, in pre-recorded remarks: In 2018, she was told to report to a local police station before being interrogated, shackled with a black hood over her head, and led to a detention camp where she was forced to change into prison clothes in front of male guards.

Power explained that Dawut, a mother of three who wanted to have a fourth child, ended up undergoing forced sterilization in lieu of facing additional detention. Even Uyghurs who have not been sent to concentration camps still face surveillance by the Chinese government.

During a panel on Big Surveillance and the Rise of Technology in Persecution, Uyghur-American lawyer Nury Turkel discussed the digital authoritarianism China has engaged in as part of its persecution of the Uyghurs: Chinese officials, assisted by sophisticated technology, impose an iron grip over every aspect of life by using video cameras, equipped with facial recognition software.

Uyghurs must have their ID cards scanned at ubiquitous checkpoints to gain access to parks, banks, malls and stores. These scanners are linked to broader policing technology. If an individual is identified as risky, then entry will be denied, he continued.

Turkel elaborated on the broader policing technology used on Uyghurs, including QR codes posted outside of [a] Uyghur home to learn who lives there and how trustworthy that they are, as well as cell phones equipped with mandatory spyware that records every aspect of Uyghurs online activity. He stressed that the contents of Uyghurs private text messages have led some of them to face detention, lamenting that Uyghurs cannot do anything to escape the watchful eye of the Chinese government.
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The loss of the long-running case involving Barronnelle Stutzman of Washington State, a great-grandmother and proprietor of Arlenes Flowers, should be cause for both alarm and resolve among committed Christians. In 2014 she declined to provide flowers for a same-sex wedding involving a long-time friend and customer.

Without an initial compliant, the Attorney General of Washington and later the ACLU sued both her business and also Stutzman in her personal capacity. Despite two appeals to the Supreme Court, each after a loss in the Washington State Supreme Court, the U.S. Supreme Court finally declined to take her case on July 2. This leaves her with attorneys fees for the other side which could close her business and take her personal assets.

Cases involving the clash of religious freedom and the sexual revolution, in which Christians are required to facilitate sinful behavior or express ideas that they believe are wrong have gone from uniform losses when they first appeared early in this century to mixed results in the late 2010s. A rapid review of important cases and decisions follows in this article, and assessment of the proper response to the current situation in the next.

The case of Elaine Huguenin, the New Mexico photographer who politely indicated that she would not provide photography services for same-sex weddings was the first very high profile case that brought the issue of religious conscience to national attention. This case was lost, as the New Mexico Supreme Court refused to distinguish between the customer and the service requested, or apply New Mexicos Religious Freedom Restoration Act to private lawsuits. At the same time, the HHS contraception/abortifacient mandate which required the health plans of private religious organizations to have coverage for activities they believed to be sinful was promulgated by the Obama Administration. This was followed by the gutting of the newly enacted Indiana RFRA in 2015, intended to respond to the New Mexico Supreme Courts reasoning which it used to deny Huguenin the protection of the New Mexico RFRA. Under corporate pressure, the new Indiana RFRA was amended to exclude conscience objection to homosexuality, just as an Arizona RFRA was vetoed in 2014 (again, under corporate pressure).

There followed a period of improved results. Early in 2018, a judge in Bakersfield, California, drew the correct distinction between identity and behavior when he found for a Christian baker, Cathy Miller, who was requested to make a cake for a lesbian wedding. This would have involved using her own talent to create a cake, and she received a favorable judgment. Later that year, although not in an American jurisdiction, another important sex related liberty of conscience case was won in Great Britain, in which the U.K. Supreme Court unanimously overturned the conviction of the owners of Ashers Bakery in Northern Ireland, who were required to bake a cake with the words Support Gay Marriage. This case was won on free speech grounds. And in the same year (2018), the U.S. Supreme Court found on free exercise grounds for Jack Phillips of Masterpiece Cakeshop, who was required to bake a cake for a same-sex ceremony. This decision was not a general protection against complicity in homosexual behavior, but a finding that his religious belief was targeted, due to extremely hostile statements about religious freedom from the Colorado Civil Rights Commission, and the same commission finding in favor of an LGBT baker from whom a cake with words expressing Biblical opposition to same-sex marriage was requested.

Another high profile case, involving Aaron and Melissa Klein of Melissas Sweet Cakes in Oregon, is still ongoing in light of the Masterpiece Cakeshop decision, although the initial ruling against them of $135,000.00 was vacated by the U.S. Supreme Court. Finally, Catholic Social Services of Philadelphia was vindicated at the Supreme Court in its policy of placing children with only married opposite sex couples or single persons due to the failure of the City of Philadelphia not to use its option to grant an exemption from the citys SOGI requirements.

The Supreme Courts inaction in the Stutzman case is a final, devastating loss for Stutzman after a seven year battle. If Arlenes Flowers continues, although Stutzman no longer makes flowers for weddings, she may well be subjected to future lawsuits endeavoring to make her violate her conscience (as Jack Phillips has). Kristen Waggoner, who argued Stutzmans case at the Washington State Supreme Court (and who also argued the Masterpiece Cakeshop case at the U.S. Supreme Court) said that the courts refusal to hear the case does not change the ongoing legal situation with respect to the conflict between religious freedom and the sexual revolution. Other such cases involving the use of SOGI laws to require artistic expression a merchant disagrees with have been won, and a case that is lost still could go to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Waggoner also said that a crucial issue involved in these cases is the forced speech issue, requiring people to express things about sex and marriage that they do not believe. This has not been addressed at all by the U.S. Supreme Court, although it was the heart of the Masterpiece Cakeshop case, she said. It remains an open question, now intensified in the country at large by the looming threat of being required to use preferred pronouns. Waggoner said that despite the loss of the Stutzman case, the Alliance Defending Freedom, (and surely other legal service organizations supporting religious liberty) will continue to push forward to ensure First Amendment rights apply to those who have orthodox beliefs on human sexuality.

In a separate interview with Tony Perkins of the Family Research Council, Waggoner said that there were a number of merchants targeted in the early 2010s, to coerce them into violating their consciences using SOGI laws. Stutzman and Jack Phillips were two of those. She said that What we know is that the principle thats at stake here protects all Americans  It doesnt matter whether youre on the left or the right, Democrat or Republican  the right to be able to express ourselves, to have freedom of speech, the right to be able to live consistent with our convictions is one that all humans should enjoy. And its not one that the government gives us. Its something that God gives us and its constitutionally guaranteed.

Waggoner observed that the Arizona Supreme Court ruled the opposite of the way that the Washington Supreme Court has done, and theyve protected freedom. The 8th Circuit Court of Appeals has protected freedom, and we expect that a decision will come out of the 10th Circuit in Colorado on a similar issue shortly. So there will be a circuit split, and the [U.S. Supreme] Court will need to address that split as were seeing the more leftist states essentially make the justice system an arm of cancel culture.

One can only wonder at what the outcome of the Stutzman case might have been with a different outcome to the election. The crucial Fulton vs. City of Philadelphia case, it was widely noted, was scheduled for hearing the day after the election. It did not result in overturning the Employment Division vs. Smith decision, and was decided on a narrow basis, although the decision was unanimous. It did have the important result of confirming that if secular exemptions can be given to generally applicable law, then religious exemptions must be given. This was an issue in the cases involving the HHS mandate. Very substantial exemptions were given to secular organizations, while the criteria for religious exemptions were very narrowly tailored, excluding most religious schools and charities. No exemptions were given to the religious organizations affected, and the Obama Administration pursued its case against Hobby Lobby to the U.S. Supreme Court.

It may be that the court is concerned with the prospect of court packing should strong decisions be given in favor of religious freedom on sexual issues, and also with the not unreasonable possibility of future Democratic Administrations as far as can be seen into the future. It has been noted that Trump appointed Justices Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett were reluctant to overturn the Smith decision (although they seem open to doing so), and voted against hearing the Stutzman case (if either had done so, the case would have been brought forward).

Christians and others concerned with religious freedom need to remember that the Supreme Court has to contend with its earlier decisions, the complex legal web they have created, and the implications of altering or overturning them, (as was emphasized by Justice Barrett in her concurrence in the Fulton decision). But the Supreme Court also must live in the world of the leftist academic legal culture and the mainstream media. Even moderate to conservative justices are willing to sign on to radical decisions (most recently Gorsuch, in the Bostock decision). But they seem timid about going in the opposite direction. Many decisions are cast as conservative, when they no more than maintain the status quo against radical demands.

The courts two most conservative justices, Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito, are so hopelessly reactionary (from the standpoint of the Left) that they are inured to criticism, although both are to be feared as a source of future decisions that might indeed endanger or undo the courts radical edicts. But the Trump appointees, Gorsuch, Kavanaugh, and Barrett, as well as Chief Justice John Roberts, all seem sensitive to offending the Left too badly. Ruling decisively for liberty of conscience against SOGI requirements, or the right to life would of course do that.

A subsequent article will try to explore arguments advocates for religious freedom and liberty of conscience can most reasonably and justly make in the future.

Originally published in Juicy Ecumenism.

Rick Plasterer is a staff writer for IRD concerned particularly with domestic religious liberty. He attended Eastern Mennonite College (now University) receiving a B.A. degree in history and sociology, and an M.S. in library science from Drexel University.
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Many conservative pundits have warned of the influence of Marxism on the leaders of Black Lives Matter, but what if its even worse than that? What if BLM is indirectly funded by the Chinese Communist Party? What if BLM has wittingly or unwittingly become part of a CCP scheme to attack Christianity and undermine the United States?

Since the Russian Revolution, America has been under ideological attack by communist nations: first the Soviet Union and then the Chinese Communist Party. The attacks are primarily against religion, and specifically Christianity, as Karl Marx claimed his mission is to dethrone God and destroy capitalism. Lets follow CCP support of BLM as a front group and then compare the similar methods Communists have always used with front groups to undermine democracies and, with it, the Church.

The Chinese Communist Party indirectly supports BLM. According to the Heritage Foundation, Black Futures Lab, a venture of Black Lives Matter founder Alicia Garza, has on its website a 'Donate' button that, when clicked, explains that Black Futures Lab is a fiscally sponsored project of the Chinese Progressive Association. (CPA) According to Mike Gonzalez, Senior Fellow, Douglas and Sarah Allison Center for Foreign Policy and Angeles T. Arredondo E Pluribus Unum Fellow, the CPA is a partner of China in the U.S.

This potential link between the communist regime in Beijing and the riots destroying American lives and livelihoods deserves investigation from the executive branch and Congress. Gonzalez claims the Chinese Progressive Association (CPA) was founded in San Francisco in 1972 by operatives of the Maoist militant group I Wor Kuen, which supported the Chinese Communist Party. From the start, CPA-San Francisco was doing pro-China work. One of the CPA founders, Fay Wong, said: China was an inspiration to us, many of us were from China and those us who were not just found what China was able to accomplish, with the revolution, was very inspiring.

Beyond San Francisco, I Wor Kuen established Chinese Progressive Association in Boston and New York. In describing the Chinese Communist Party influence on the riots, The New York Post opined: The most dangerous useful idiots for the CCP may well be the anarchists, agitators and looters now regularly crossing state lines to invade our Democratically run cities. When Antifa and Black Lives Matter storm troopers swarm They are destroying everything sacred about our tradition of peaceful protest.

Ho-fung Hung provides another CCP motivation: Beijing points to the violence and injustice of the United States to exonerate itself from its own egregious violence and injustices.. This indirect method used by the CCP to undermine America is a well-documented Communist strategy known by the US intelligence community from earlier experience.

I have written previously about how the ideas of the father of cultural Marxism, Antonio Gramsci, slowly seeped into America through the Marxist Frankfurt School. How neo-Marxists like Henry Marcuse helped further what became Critical Theory of hyper-criticism of national foundational institutions. How the promotion of the oppressor/oppressed paradigm was developed to divide society. Critical Race Theory, which goes further with the oppressor/oppressed paradigm by race, attacks on the foundations of the nation as racist.

The Soviet Union sought to undermine free democracies, and particularly America. Retired KGB Major General Oleg Kulagen, former head of Foreign Counter Intelligence for the KGB (19731979), described active measures used against the non-communist nations. He defined active measures as "the heart and soul of Soviet Intelligence". This involved subversive measures to weaken and destroy nations. The head of the "active measures department" was Yuri Modin, former controller of the Cambridge Five spy ring.

To undermine America from within, the Soviets developed the United Front strategy. According to American Communist Leader Ben Gidlow, the Soviets adopted United Front as far back as 1922 to Spread Communist propaganda, incite discontent amount the people, undermine the loyalty of the American people and to divide them on religion, national, racial, and economic lines.

United Front helped Marxism infiltrate seminaries, churches, trade unions, peace organizations in the 1930s. In the 1960s, the Soviets spent more than $1 billion for United Front peace movements against the Vietnam War, which was a "hugely successful campaign and well worth the cost" according to senior GRU officer Stanislav Lunev. Lunev also alleged "the GRU and the KGB helped to fund just about every anti-war movement and organization in America and abroad".

According to former KGB General Oleg Kalugin, the Soviet intelligence [was] really unparalleled. ... The [KGB] programswhich would run all sorts of congresses, peace congresses, youth congresses, festivals, women's movements, trade union movements.. allegations that AIDS ... was invented by the CIA ... all sorts of forgeries and faked materials. Of note, the Soviets attempted Operation PANDORA in 1971, which was to start a race war that would consume and self-destruct the United States.

Its past time for the United States to recognize, expose and end the influence of Marxism through front groups. Its past time for the Church to wake up to wokeness as well.
New Mexico church clears nearly $1.4M in medical debt for 782 households

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Some 782 families in New Mexico and Arizona are now free from medical debt after a church in Santa Fe cleared their bills totaling nearly $1.4 million.

With a grant of $15,000 the St. Bedes Episcopal Church was able to clear $1,380,119.87 in medical debt for the 782 families who live in New Mexico and parts of Arizona, the Episcopal News Service reported.

I dont know if this parish has ever funded a program with such a great impact. We were able to do it because every week we set aside 10% of donations to the church for outreach. Prioritizing service to others is our gospel imperative, the Rev. Catherine Volland told ENS.

The church worked with a New York-based organization called RIP Medical Debt which uses donor funds to eliminate medical debt for some of Americas neediest families by purchasing that debt at a fraction of the actual cost. A gift of $500 to the organization, for example, can relieve $50,000 worth of medical debt.

Once weve pinpointed the portfolios for those in or near the poverty level, we buy up their debt and relieve it. Then we send relief notices to the benefiting families, and subsequently help the recipients repair their credit reports  renewing their access to opportunities and resources that will allow them to rebuild and recover, the organization explains on their website.

The Survey of Income and Program Participation shows that in 2017, 19% of U.S. households carried medical debt which is defined as medical costs people were unable to pay upfront or when they received care, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Among households with medical debt, the median amount owed was $2,000, meaning half had more and half had less. As of 2020, there were 128.45 million households in the U.S., which means that well over 24 million households in the U.S. are burdened by medical debt.

Census Bureau data on debt for households in 2017, further show that medical debt is distributed disproportionately across groups based on socioeconomic status, demographic characteristics as well as health status of household members.

Some 27.9% of black households were shown to have medical debt compared to 17.2% of white households and 9.7% of Asian households. Some 21.7% of Hispanic households held medical debt.

Though it was not always the case in the data, the more educated members of the households were less likely to carry medical debt. The 26.2% of households found most likely to carry medical debt were those in which the highest level of education of any of the members was some college but no degree.

Only 15.5% of households where the highest level of education of any member was a bachelors degree had medical debt, while only 10.9% of households where the highest level of education of any member was a graduate or professional degree had medical debt.
Pastor begs God for mercy as COVID-19 sweeps megachurch: Lord we didnt want to be in the news

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Pastor Bruce Wesley of the multi-campus Clear Creek Community Church in Texas, which recently made headlines as some 125 youth and adults got infected with what officials suspect is the COVID-19 Delta variant after attending a church-sponsored student ministry camp, publicly prayed for Gods mercy as his church was forced to shutter for a second week.

Lord, we didnt want to be in the news, at least not for this, maybe for serving or some extreme generosity, but not this," Wesley prayed in an online message delivered to his congregants.

"So we ask for your mercy. We ask for your healing for all of those who became sick with this virus and for their families whove been caring for them as well. We pray for complete recovery so that people dont have any lingering effects, and we pray that there would be a stop, you would put a stop to the spread of this virus."

Wesley did not share how many more people are now infected with the virus. But the church revealed in a statement last Wednesday that the congregation is facing a second wave of infections among the families of the infected campers.

The number of people at camp who became ill has increased since my first communication. In some cases, entire families are sick. While some have had difficult symptoms, we are not aware of any hospitalizations," he said in the Wednesday statement after announcing further service cancellations.

Clear Creek Community Church will cancel services again on Sunday, July 11, and Wednesday, July 14 at all campuses. In addition, there will be no Revive and Restore Forum on July 11. Other gatherings for the week have been canceled or postponed."

More than 450 people participated in the camp designed for middle school and high school-aged kids. In a letter to congregants, Wesley previously explained that in consultation with the Galveston County Health District, the church canceled services for July 4 and again on July 7. They hoped to reopen for in-person services this past Sunday, but the virus cases were too many.

Our pastor, staff and volunteers, have contacted all of the 450 plus campers by phone or email this last week and weve receive a report on how everyone is doing, the church said in the statement.

On Sunday, Wesley prayed for all the families that have been impacted by the virus outbreak.

We ask also Lord for those whose lives were impacted by this virus. I know for some its been a financial impact. We pray you provide for them, he said.

He noted that some members had to rearrange their lives because of the mass infections, including those forced to miss a mission trip to the Dominican Republic or their planned vacation.

We just ask Lord that our whole community will be comforted by your presence, rest in your goodness in spite of this outbreak, he prayed.

Wesley also prayed for wisdom for churches taking their kids to camp this summer.

Inci Yildirim, a Yale Medicine pediatric infectious diseases specialist and vaccinologist, said in a recent report that the Delta variant of COVID-19 has been shown to spread more among the younger population.

A recent study from the United Kingdom showed that children and adults under 50 were 2.5 times more likely to become infected with Delta, Yildirim told Yale Medicine.

As older age groups get vaccinated, those who are younger and unvaccinated will be at higher risk of getting COVID-19 with any variant, but Delta seems to be impacting younger age groups more than previous variants, she added.

Dr. Phillip Keiser, Galveston County Health District Authority, told KHOU that because of how rapidly the virus has spread among the campers, they suspect it might be the Delta variant.

Were testing it for the Delta variant to see if thats the cause for it spreading so rapidly among that group, Keiser said.
Pennsylvania church sues city after zoning application for drug, alcohol recovery home is denied

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A Pennsylvania church filed a federal lawsuit last week, claiming the Allentown Zoning Hearing Board violated the Americans with Disabilities Act and other anti-discrimination laws by denying the church permission to operate a sober-living group home located in West Park.

Since February 2019, 11 disabled residents recovering from drug or alcohol addiction have lived in a sober-living, 10-bedroom house in the 1400 block of Hamilton Street operated by Allentown Victory Church called the Recover Victory Home.

According to an online document outlining the codified ordinances of Allentown, the citys high-density residential zoning regulation prohibits drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities or halfway houses, except under certain circumstances, such as accommodating those with disabilities.

Allentown Victory Church applied for a special exception with the Allentown Zoning Hearing Board. The church imagined the board would make an exception to allow it to operate the sober-living home because every disabled resident living in the home qualifies for disability accommodations based on the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Federal Fair Housing Act.

The Morning Call reported that the church had two hearings with the zoning board in June and August 2019. However, the plan faced opposition from neighborhood residents. The zoning hearing board reportedly voted 2-1 to deny the application.

In the lawsuit, Allentown Victory Church requested accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Fair Housing Act to be treated as a group home instead of being considered a halfway house because all residents are disabled.

According to the daily newspaper, Pastor Matthew Catricola said during the August 2019 hearing that the individuals accepted into the sober-living home are asked to commit at least nine months to the recovery program but have the option to leave at any time.

However, the zoning board concluded that the use of the home was more in line with a halfway house because residents are required to attend either religious services or participate in a 12-step recovery program. The board ruled that such requirements are "province of halfway houses," according to The Morning Call.

The Zoning Hearing Board outlined in Article 1307 of the Zoning Hearing Board; Special Exception Procedures" that to grant an exception to the regulation prohibiting drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities or halfway houses, the parties must meet specific criteria. The criteria include that "only persons who the applicant proves have 'disabilities' as defined in and protected by such laws are served."

The lawsuit alleges that the disabilities of the recovery houses residents were not considered as required by the zoning code and that the citys actions have the effect of denying needed housing opportunities to recovering drug and alcohol abusers.

The case will be handled in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.

The attorney representing Allentown Victory Church is Steven G. Polin. Polin litigates sober house cases in federal and state courts.

His legal firm aims to protect the Fair Housing Act rights of sober-housing providers and represent those who have been victims of housing discrimination since 1993.

The Christian Post reached out to Polin for comment on the case. A response was not received by press time.

Polin argues that the zoning board misapplied the Fair Housing Act by concluding that the church can't request accommodation for its residents, The Morning Call notes.

Even though the case has been publicly logged online, Mike Moore, the communications manager for Allentowns Mayor Ray OConnell, told CP that The city has not yet been served with the suit and therefore has no comment.

Pastor Catricola and representatives from Allentowns Zoning Hearing Board did not respond to CPs emails and phone correspondence requesting comments.

The state has currently approved the home as a residence for people on parole or work release while the lawsuit continues.

The churchs Recovery Victory Home aims to help individuals develop meaningful relationships with God and develop the basic skills necessary for a genuine recovery experience.

We saw a gap, a problem. When men got out of jail or rehab, we saw too many of them get disconnected with God and the right people, and they ended up back where they started, back in jail or rehab, the churchs website explains. There were not enough good transitional places, especially that were Christ Centered. So God birthed in our Heart Recover Victory Home.
Retired general reacts to US troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, raises concerns for women

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Army Gen. Scott Miller, the top U.S. commander in Afghanistan, stepped down from his post in Kabul on Monday, another sign of the military's departure from the country after nearly 20 years. Many foreign policy experts have raised concerns, however, about the threat of the Taliban's expansion and what the future for Afghan women will look like if the government falls.

When President Joe Biden announced his plans to remove U.S. troops from Afghanistan, a move former President Donald Trump also planned to make, foreign policy experts and top military commanders warned the decision to pull out and not leave 2,500 soldiers could compromise the country's security.

Biden initially planned to remove all troops from Afghanistan by Sep. 11, the 20-year anniversary of 9/11, but he said on Thursday that all U.S. troops should be withdrawn by Aug. 31, minus the number of soldiers needed to secure the U.S. Embassy.

Biden said the Afghan people will have to decide their own future instead of relying on the U.S., which has aided the government for nearly two decades, Reuters reported.

As U.S. troops vacate the region, the Taliban has been posting propaganda videos, one of which shows its men stationed at a U.S.-built border crossing between Afghanistan and Tajikistan. The Muslim insurgent group also claims it's now occupying more territory than the Afghan government, led by President Ashraf Ghani.

A Taliban official recently said that "85% of the territory of Afghanistan has come under the control of the Taliban," according to Reuters. Others have estimated that the Taliban now has control of one-third of all districts in the country, and that number could increase if Afghan security forces continue to surrender without putting up a fight.

Last month, U.S. intelligence agencies revised their prospects for the country, saying it's possible the Afghan government could fall to the Taliban as early as six months after U.S. troops leave.

In an interview with The Christian Post, Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Jerry Boykin, one of the original members of the U.S. Army's Delta Force, said the U.S. presence in Afghanistan is essential to keep the Taliban in check and protect women.

He does not, however, believe the U.S. should maintain a presence of combat troops.

I believe we should have pulled our front-line combat troops out right after Osama bin Laden was killed [who was killed in 2011] , said Boykin, who's also the former commander of the Army's Green Berets and executive vice president of the Family Research Council.

So I think that what we should be doing now is rather than pulling everybody out is keeping a robust military advisory group to train and work with the Afghans. A security apparatus to protect the embassy and a multi-agency intelligence capability to provide us with early warning if there is going to be another attack coming out of that part of the world.

With the absence of a substantial U.S. military presence, Boykin, like former President George W. Bush, said he expects to see the Taliban regain control of virtually the whole country.

So what does that mean for the people? It means theyre going to go back to Sharia, Islamic law, he stressed. It means theyre going to discriminate against women. Theyre not going to let any more women be educated even though they have made a pledge that they would treat women well, according to their laws and customs.

While women continue to have limited rights in Afghanistan, the presence of U.S. and allied troops since 2001 has enabled a generation of women" to obtain an education and have successful careers.

It wont come immediately, but it will come when we lose our focus on Afghanistan and the rest of the world is focused on something else, he told CP on Friday. Youre going to see those same laws that were in place in 2001, youre going to see those same laws re-implemented, and its going to be very bad for women.

Boykin does, however, believe there will be more pushback on the Taliban this time since more women have been educated in the last two decades.

The good news is, because of the 20 years weve been there, weve got a generation of women that have been educated in Afghanistan because of the U.S. presence, because we built schools, because we insisted on allowing them to be educated. And Ill tell you, I believe thats a force the Taliban has probably not thought about. But I think this is a force thats going to be a major obstacle for the Taliban , he explained.

Even though Afghan women are not liberated in the same sense as women living in the U.S. and other Western countries, the fact that they now have more rights will prove to be a major obstacle to the Taliban, he reiterated.

I think they now feel that they have more power because theyre educated women, so thats a positive in this whole thing, he continued. I think that theyre going to have to reckon with them.

Afghan women face a reversal of the rights gained in the last two decades and restricted education once the U.S. decreases its presence and the Taliban expands control, some experts warn.

I think theres going to be more of a pushback, and I think ... the women are going to be the primary leaders of that, and I think the Talibans not prepared to deal with it, he said.  I think you are going to see the women pushing back and the Taliban not knowing exactly how to deal with it, other than just start killing people."

Afghan women have already taken to the streets with guns in northern and central Afghanistan to show defiance as the Taliban makes gains across the country, The Guardian reported.

The Taliban is known for enforcing restrictions on women's education, clothing and freedom of movement.

In a scathing op-ed in The Telegraph last week, Shabnam Nasimi, a British-Afghan social activist and director of Conservative Friends of Afghanistan, also highlighted the monumental gains many Afghan women have experienced due to the U.S. government's intervention.

"... Millions of girls are now in school. There are women at the top of politics  with a combined 28 percent representation in the House of the People and the House of the Elders, Afghanistan has a higher proportion of national parliament seats held by women than the United States. In the major cities, for the first time in decades, it has been possible for women to live largely independent lives."

But, Nasumi warned, all of the progress made by Afghan women could be lost if the Taliban regains control. "The West isnt just squandering 20 years of blood and treasure by leaving Afghanistan. Its betraying millions of ordinary Afghanistanis, particularly women, who had been led to believe they would have a better life following the toppling of the Taliban in 2001."

Bush also warned back in April that the U.S. troop withdrawal would empower the brutal Taliban and endanger girls' lives during an interview on NBC's "Today" show.

"A lot of gains have been made, and so I'm deeply concerned about the plight of women and girls in that country," Bush said at the time.

Boykin said it would be best to maintain a military advisory, a security force for the U.S. Embassy and a robust intelligence capability to have a perfect, sustainable U.S. presence there that could go on indefinitely.

Boykin also predicts that China will have a huge impact in Afghanistan following the U.S. departure.

China is already trying to fill the void of the United States pulling out of there, he added.
Trump wins CPAC Dallas straw poll by landslide, DeSantis comes in second

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Former President Donald Trump continues to be the GOP's presidential frontrunner for 2024 after winning a straw poll at the Conservative Political Action Conference hosted by the American Conservative Union in Dallas, Texas, over the weekend.

Trump held the lead with 70% of CPAC attendees saying they'd vote for him if the Republican Primary were held today and he was running.

Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida was the runner-up in the poll, lagging behind the former president with just 21% of the vote among attendees at CPAC in Dallas. However, the poll also asked attendees who they'd vote for if Trump wasn't in the race and DeSantis led the pack with 68% of the vote.

The 19 other contenders, including Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and former Vice President Mike Pence each received 1% or less of the vote.

With Trump hypothetically out of the race, the other contenders received more votes in the straw poll. Pompeo received 5%, Donald Trump Jr. and Cruz both garnered 4%, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem received 3%, and all other candidates had less than 2%.

The conference, which is usually held annually near Washington, D.C., is considered the largest and most influential gathering of conservatives in the world." This year the event was also held in Orlando, Florida.

Trump performed better in the CPAC Dallas straw poll than CPAC Orlando back in February where he won less of a majority.

At CPAC Orlando, 55% of respondents said they would support Trump as the Republican nominee, 21% said they would support DeSantis, and 4% expressed support for Noem.

DeSantis is a former congressman and U.S. Navy JAG officer who has gained national attention for not mandating ongoing lockdown restrictions in response to COVID-19, thus keeping Florida's economy open.

His Democratic opponent in the 2019 gubernatorial race, Andrew Gillum, who many had expected to win the election, later came out as bisexual following a drug and sex scandal in which he was found passed out in a Miami Beach hotel room with two other men and three bags of methamphetamines months after he lost.

In a separate poll at the Western Conservative Summit last month, DeSantis received more votes than Trump. In that poll, 74% percent of attendants at the Centennial Institute, Colorado Christian Universitys public policy think tank, approved of DeSantis as a 2024 presidential candidate, while 71% said they preferred Trump over dozens of the other top contenders, both Republican and Democrat.

The other top candidates, in order of most approval to least, included Sen. Ted Cruz (43%), Mike Pompeo (39%) and Sen. Tim Scott (36%).

Trump, who has flirted with the possibility of another presidential run, addressed a friendly crowd at CPAC Dallas that chanted USA! USA! as he took the stage on Sunday.

He began his speech shortly after the results of the 2024 presidential election straw poll were released.

"With the help of everyone here today, we will defeat the radical left, the socialists, Marxists and the critical race theorists," Trump said in his 90-minute speech. "We will secure our borders, we will stop Left-wing cancel culture, we will restore free speech and free elections and we will make America great again."

His speech also hinted at a 2024 presidential run, addressed his recent lawsuits against Big Tech companies, 2020 election fraud, and attacked President Joe Biden and Republicans who have not been loyal to him.

"I love my Republicans, but we're really kicking their a--, too," Trump said, referring to party members who might run against him for president. But we love them. But we like it because they're friends of ours, right? So it's OK. I think we can say that affectionately."

Though Trump has not announced whether he will run in 2024, he told Fox News opinion host Sean Hannity he has already made up his mind about whether he's running or not.

On Fox News Sunday Morning Futures, Trump told host Maria Bartiromo: I do know my answer, but I cant reveal it yet, because that has to do with campaign financing and everything else.

Trump has also assured Republicans that he will not start a new political party.
'Depraved': Advocates slam Chicago for making condoms accessible to elementary schoolers

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Conservative advocacy groups are speaking out against a new policy in Chicago Public Schools requiring that condoms be made accessible to kids as young as a fifth grade at nearly all 600 public schools at the start of the school year next month.

The new policy, which was passed by the Chicago Board of Education in December, requires schools that teach fifth grade and up must make condoms available as part of sexual education requirements. According to The Chicago Sun-Times, the new policy means that all but a dozen of the over 600 CPS schools must provide condoms.

Advocacy organizations that encourage kids to avoid engaging in adolescent sex believe that giving condoms to children in any state, city or country could potentially lead to a bigger issue worldwide of sexualizing children.

Children at 11 need a parent intervention, not a piece of latex, said Maryanne Mosaz, a representative from Ascend, a Washington D.C.-based organization with a mission to empower youth globally to avoid potential risks of sexual activity. Some people think that children should be able to sexually explore, but children are not cognitively, emotionally or physically ready to handle these kinds of acts.

Representatives from the Washington-based social conservative organization Family Research Council told CP that they believe the best context for sexual activity is in marriage between a man and a woman and children should not be encouraged to engage.

Children at 10 or 11 should not be sexually active and any policy that would reinforce such an idea is depraved and benefits those who would seek to sexually exploit children, said Meg Kilgannon, FRC's senior fellow for education studies. Children do not have a right to have sex. Children are not sex objects and can never meaningfully consent to sexual acts. Adults cannot claim these false rights for children.

Family Research Council is a Christian nonprofit research and educational organization dedicated to articulating and advancing a family-centered philosophy of public life. The nonprofit also does policy research and analysis for the legislative, executive and judicial branches of the federal government.

Family Research Council opposes exposing children to explicit material, encouraging children in any way to have sex or commit sexual acts, and creating a hypersexualized culture that will certainly have damaging long-term consequences for children, agreed Mary Szoch, who is the director of FRC's Center for Life and Human Dignity.

Despite some organizations opposing the policy, studies confirm that a small minority of children below 13 are, in fact, having sex.

According to a 2018 article from U.S. News & World Report, data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Preventions 2017 Youth Risk Behavior Survey found that 3% of children 13 years or younger have reported having had sexual intercourse at some point in their lives.

In two other national surveys released in 2019, CBS News reported, that investigators found between 4% and 8% of boys reported engaging in sex before age 13. The outlet notes that black males were most likely to have had sex before 13, followed by Hispanic boys.

Although CDC data also shows that nearly half of teens reported having sexual intercourse before age 18, scholars stress that the percentage of kids having sex before age 13 is decreasing.

The average age that teens initiate sex is around 17 and that number hasn't really changed in years," Dr. David Bell, associate professor at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health, told CBS News at the time.

The percentage of youths having early sex initiation before 13 has been decreasing for more than a decade."

Bell believes that it is important to "make sure our young people are better prepared and better educated around sex."

Researchers have warned that "early sexual onset has been associated with increased prevalence of negative physical and mental health outcomes," such as sexually transmitted diseases.

Ascend's Mosaz, who lobbies for sex education policies that stress the importance of children abstaining from sex entirely to avoid the risks that sexual exposure brings, recommends that parents talk to their school-aged children if they are having sex.

They are acting out behaviors they have seen and they need to know what appropriate behaviors are," she stressed. Instead of having sex, Mosaz said, children should be focused on achieving life goals.

Although she opposes children having sex, Mosaz said that does not stop her from viewing sex as a wonderful part of life.

Sexual intimacy is definitely a great and natural part of human development, but it is also an activity that could put people in situations where they become parents or contract a sexually transmitted disease, Mosaz added. Having sex is not just like riding a bike.  It can actually create babies.  It can change your life. Having sex requires thought and its not just physical, but there are many emotional components of sexuality that need to be considered.
Catholic parish can fire gay music director under ministerial exception, appeals court rules

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An appeals court has ruled that an Illinois Catholic parish and its archdiocese could legally fire a music director because he had entered a same-sex marriage, as his relationship conflicted with Church teaching.

In a 7-3 en bacn ruling, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit decided last Friday to reject an employee harassment claim by Sandor Demkovich against St. Andrew the Apostle Parish and the Archdiocese of Chicago.

The decision vacated an earlier ruling by a three-judge panel of the Seventh Circuit and sent the case back to a lower court with instructions to dismiss the lawsuit against the archdiocese and parish.

Circuit Judge Michael Brennan, a Trump appointee, authored the majority opinion. He concluded that the ministerial exception for religious employers does apply to hostile work environment claims based on minister-on-minister harassment.

The contours of the ministerial relationship are best left to a religious organization, not a court. Within a religious organization, workplace conflict among ministers takes on a constitutionally protected character, wrote Brennan.

Just as a religious organization need not proffer a religious justification for termination claims, a religious organization need not do so for hostile work environment claims.

Brennan concluded that the court weighing in on the plaintiff's hostile work environment claims would be problematic since what one minister says in supervision of another could constitute stern counsel to some or tread into bigotry to others.

How is a court to determine discipline from discrimination? Or advice from animus? continued Brennan. These questions and others like them cannot be answered without infringing upon a religious organizations rights.

Circuit Judge David Hamilton authored a dissenting opinion, arguing that the majority had focused too little on counterarguments and reached a decision at the expense of the rights of employees.

In each of these types of cases, there is some risk of burdening religious liberty and entangling civil and religious affairs. But the First Amendment does not categorically defeat any of them, wrote Hamilton, an Obama appointee.

In this case, however, the majority adopts a broad exception for any hostile environment claims by ministerial employees. That produces an oddly arbitrary line.

Hamilton believes the majority opinion departs from a long practice of carefully balancing civil law and religious liberty.

Daniel Blomberg, senior counsel at Becket, a religious freedom legal nonprofit that joined the litigation on behalf of the Archdiocese, celebrated the ruling. He said that the court's ruling that the government can't interfere in the ministerial relationship between a church and worship leaders is "common sense."

Worship is sacred. Thats why worship leaders who select and perform elements of worship are ministers of the faith, conveying its teachings to the faithful, Blomberg said in a statement.

Thats also why the church  not the state  gets to make sure that its music ministers are directing its congregation in a way thats faithful to its beliefs.

In 2016, Demkovich filed a lawsuit against the archdiocese and the parish, accusing them of workplace harassment and unlawful firing when he was dismissed in 2014 for marrying a man.

Demkovich, who suffers from metabolic syndrome and other health issues, also accused the parish of creating a hostile work environment based on disability.

A district court judge ruled against his sexual orientation claim but allowed his disability claim to move forward. In August of last year, a three-judge panel ruled in favor of Demkovich for both the disability and sexual orientation claims.
Rise of the 'nones,' decline of 'white Christian America' slows in US, new survey shows

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A new survey reveals that the share of Americans who identify as religiously unaffiliated has declined slightly. However, more Americans still describe themselves as religiously unaffiliated than affiliate with any particular religious tradition.

The Washington, D.C.-based Public Religion Research Institute released its first-ever Census of American Religion Thursday, which provided detailed information about the religious demographics of the United States.

The survey was part of PRRIs 2020 American Values Atlas, based on phone interviews with 50,334 Americans throughout 2020.

A statement from the research firm alleges that the Census of American Religion provides the most detailed estimates of American religious affiliation since the U.S. Census Bureau last collected religious data in 1957. Data was compiled based on more than 400,000 responses to PRRIs American Values Atlas dating back to 2013.

One of the biggest takeaways from the survey is that the Rise of the Nones has slowed.

The term nones describes Americans who do not identify with a particular religion and includes atheists and agnostics.

For several years, the PRRI and Pew Research Center have reported on the growth of the religiously unaffiliated American population, which corresponds with a drop in the share of Americans who identify as Christians.

As noted by data compiled in the Census of American Religion, 16% of Americans identified as religiously unaffiliated in 2006. That number rose to a high of 25.5% in 2018 before declining to 24% in 2019 and 23.3% in 2020. Even with this slight decline, religiously unaffiliated Americans constitute a larger share of the American public than the three most prominent religious groups in the U.S.

White mainline Protestants made up just over 16% of the population in 2020, followed by white evangelical Protestants (14%) and white Catholics (12%.) All other religious groups accounted for less than 10% of the U.S. population as a whole, including Christians of color, Jews, Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists.

As the survey reported, The increase in proportion of religiously unaffiliated Americans has occurred across all age groups but has been most pronounced among young Americans.

Even as the share of religiously unaffiliated Americans between the ages of 18 and 29 declined from 38% in 2018 to 36% in 2020, religiously unaffiliated young Americans outnumbered their white mainline Protestant counterparts 3-to-1.

The religiously unaffiliated constitute smaller pluralities of Americans between the ages of 30-49 and 50-64. At 14%, the religiously unaffiliated were the fourth largest group among Americans 65 and older. White evangelicals made up a plurality (22%) of the oldest age bracket, followed by white mainline Protestants (20%) and white Catholics (15%).

The slight decrease in the percentage of nones comes as the Census of American Religion found that the decline of white Christian America has also slowed.

After the share of Americans who identified as white Christians reached a low of 42% in 2018, the percentage of white Christians increased to 44% in 2020.

While the percentage of white mainline Protestants increased slightly in 2020, the share of white evangelical Protestants in the population continues to decline.

Twenty-three percent of Americans identified as white evangelical Protestants in 2006. But that figure shrunk to 14% in 2020 after remaining constant at 15% for the three previous years.

The new survey results illustrate a noticeable relationship between a persons faith and their political affiliation. White Christians made up 68% of the Republican Party compared to just 39% of the Democratic Party.

Although religiously unaffiliated Americans make up an increasing share of both political parties, the nones comprise a higher share of the Democratic Partys coalition (23%) compared to the Republican Partys (13%).

According to data collected by Pew Research Center in 2006, just 4% of the Republican Party consisted of religiously unaffiliated Americans, while the nones accounted for 13% of the Democratic Partys coalition at that time.

In 2020, the religiously unaffiliated made up a plurality of the Democratic Partys membership (23%), followed by white mainline Protestants (16%), white Catholics (13%) and black Protestants (13%). Meanwhile, the nones were the fourth-largest religious group in the Republican Party in 2020 (13%). At 29%, white evangelicals constituted a plurality of the Republican Party, followed by white mainline Protestants (22%) and white Catholics (15%).

Overall, most religiously unaffiliated Americans identify as independents (46%) and Democrats (35%). Majorities of Hindus (79%), Buddhists (77%), Muslims (82%), Jews (75%), Hispanic Catholics (83%), and Hispanic Protestants (75%) identified as either independent or Democrat. An outright majority of black Protestants (65%) aligned themselves with the Democratic Party.

The religious groups most likely to favor Republicans were white evangelicals (51%) and members of the Church of Latter-Day Saints (39%). White mainline Protestants were evenly split between Democrats (35%) and Republicans (33%), while a plurality of white Catholics (38%) identified with the Democratic Party.
Chiang Ying-ying/AP

TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP)  TSMC, the biggest contract manufacturer of processor chips for Apple Inc. and other global brands, said Thursday its latest quarterly profit rose 11.2% over a year earlier to $4.8 billion as demand for smartphones and consumer electronics increased.

Sales in the three months ending June 30 rose 19.8% to $13.3 billion, said the company, headquartered in Hsinchu, Taiwan.
MINNETONKA, Minn. (AP)  UnitedHealth Group boosted its full-year outlook for a second time this year after a surprisingly strong second quarter despite sustained, elevated spending tied to the pandemic.

The country's largest U.S. health insurer earned $4.27 billion, or $4.46 per share. Adjusted for one-time gains and costs, per-share earning were $4.70, far better than the $4.41 that Wall Street had been projecting, according to a survey of industry analysts by Zacks Investment Research.

It's still below the $6.64 billion, or $6.91 per share, the company earned in the same three-month period last year, which ended June 30. Those three months were an extraordinary stretch with so many people calling off visits to the doctor's office, elective surgery, and other non-emergency visits due the pandemic.

The return of those patients after a successful vaccination program in the U.S. has added more medical costs for insurers like UnitedHealth. Executives with the Minnetonka, Minnesota, company said they expect to feel most of that impact during the second half of this year.

Quarterly revenue reached $71.32 billion, topping the $69.22 billion that Wall Street was calling for, thanks in part to double-digit percentage growth at Optum and UnitedHealthcare.

UnitedHealth now foresees full-year adjusted earnings in a range of $18.30 to $18.80 per share. In April the company raised its forecast to $18.10 to $18.60 per share, up from an outlook of $17.75 to $18.25 per share that it debuted in December.

The guidance accounts for approximately $1.80 per share in potential net unfavorable COVID-19 costs.

Analysts polled by FactSet predict full-year earnings of $18.57 per share.

Shares of UnitedHealth Group Inc. are flat before the opening bell Thursday.

_____

Elements of this story were generated by Automated Insights (http://automatedinsights.com/ap) using data from Zacks Investment Research. Access a Zacks stock report on UNH at https://www.zacks.com/ap/UNH
Conroe deserves better.

The city is soon to be home to Greater Houston's newest comic convention, with meet-and-greets, workshops, vendors and even a cosplay contest. Galactic Events, which is hosting the weekend, hopes it's the first of many in the years to come.

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There's a slate of special guests, from renowned comic inkers to voice artists from your favorite childhood anime. Even Houston's own professional wrestling superstar Booker T will make an appearance to greet fans.

Then they invited Kevin Sorbo.

Sorbo broke into the mainstream for his portrayal of the titular role in the "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys" television series in the 1990s. But after the show was cancelled, Sorbos fell into obscurity before finding a footing in the Christian media scene.

He starred in the 2014 hit-among-Evangelicals "God's Not Dead" as an atheist professor hellbent on turning his students away from Christianity. You can imagine how that one ends.

Now, Sorbo openly tweets transphobic remarks, makes cringe-y, B-movie culture war flicks and even has his own social network.

The network, Sorbos.Locals.com, requires a paid subscription to view premium posts from Sorbo, although his unhinged tweets are totally free:

Censored? Sorbo's headlining the comic convention in Conroe, Texas! He could stand to count his blessings.

If this is what he says for free, I wouldn't pay anything to see what he says behind a paywall. Or at a comic convention, for that matter.

Sorbo also spouts anti-vaccination conspiracies and is banned from Facebook for doing so. He's quite proud of it, in fact.

Whatever crossover exists between respective fanbases of "Hercules" and "God's Not Dead" is beyond me. The convention is marketing Sorbo only as the former "Hercules" actor in most of its press material, and there's little mention of his other work on the convention website.

They will, however, host a screening of "What If" (another tale of drummed-up divine intervention) and an in-person Q&A at Star Cinema Grill Conroe that weekend.

Maybe Sorbo's booking is a secret religious, right-ring plug. Or perhaps the booking agents overlooked Sorbo's dicey and controversial past.

Either way, his presence is par for the course in Conroe, the land of Trump trains, COVID deniers and gun toters.

But for the apolitical, the progressive and even the well-rounded right-wing pop culture fans, hopefully next year's headliner is less of a screwball.

Comic Conroe runs from July 23 to 25. Tickets start at $35 for a three-day pass.
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As rates of Covid-19 cases are once again on the rise nationwide, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy released an advisory calling the spread of health misinformation an urgent threat and asked Americans and social media companies to up their efforts to combat the problem.

I am urging all Americans to help slow the spread of health misinformation during the Covid-19 pandemic and beyond, Murthy wrote. Health misinformation is a serious threat to public health. It can cause confusion, sow mistrust, harm peoples health, and undermine public health efforts. Limiting the spread of health misinformation is a moral and civic imperative that will require a whole-of-society effort.

At the White House on Thursday, Murthy pointed out that social media platforms have allowed people to intentionally spread misinformation  what we call disinformation  to have extraordinary reach. Theyve designed product features such as like buttons that reward us for sharing emotionally charged content, not accurate content. And their algorithms tend to give us more of what we click on, pulling us deeper and deeper into a well of misinformation.

Health misinformation has led to vaccine hesitancy and puts lives at risk, Murthy said.

According to data from Johns Hopkins University vaccination rates are dropping nationwide and new covid cases have risen 10 percent as compared to last week. Still, less than half of U.S. adults are completely vaccinated.

Murthy spoke to NPR about the advisory and said Americans can help by not sharing online content that they find questionable. If youre not sure, not sharing is often the prudent thing to do, he said. And because two-thirds of unvaccinated adults are either unsure about the vaccines effectiveness or believe untrue conspiracy theories about the vaccine, the surgeon general said that friends, family health professionals, faith leaders and educators, should get involved. Each of us has a role to play, Murthy said.

One study conducted by researchers from Northwestern, Harvard, Northeastern and Rutgers universities polled people who said they get their news from social media. Researchers found in a survey of 21,000 that approximately one in four people who got their news from Snapchat, Instagram or Wikipedia believed inaccurate claims about Covid-19. The survey polled participants on 11 false Covid-19 beliefs and, depending on the claim, between seven percent and 22 percent of respondents believed in misinformation. Worryingly, those who believed in Covid-related conspiracy theories said they were less likely to seek out the vaccine or to wear a mask.

Imran Ahmed, the chief executive of the Center for Countering Digital Hate, told NPR that tech companies are not doing enough to combat misinformation because they are motivated by clicks. Although Ahmed said that the advisory is a positive step, he would like to see the government take a more aggressive approach. On tobacco packets, they say that tobacco kills, Ahmed said. On social media, we need a Surgeon generals warning: misinformation kills. 
Foodies, get ready.

Houston Restaurant Weeks begins Aug. 1, and the first round of menus is now available to help plan your outings for the more than month-long period.

WEIRD EATS: I tried the Kraft mac and cheese ice cream so you don't have to

Houston Restaurant Weeks will continue adding restaurants and menus until Aug. 1, but you can already view the offerings from Houston favorites such as Common Bond Bistro & Bakery, Brennans of Houston, Tony's, Xin Chao, Weights + Measures and more.

Restaurants are offering multi-course prix fixe menus for breakfast or brunch ($20), lunch ($20) and/or dinner ($35 or $49), with a few spots offering to-go menus as well. Each meal will initiate a donation to the Houston Food Bank from $1 up to $5. Three meals can be provided to hungry Houstonians for each dollar donated.

More than 250 restaurants across Harris, Galveston and Montgomery counties are expected to participate in this year's event benefiting the Houston Food Bank.

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Cleverly Stone started Houston Restaurant Weeks in 2003, and the event has grown into the largest annual fundraiser for the city's food bank and provided more than 49.8 million meals. Stone, affectionately called the Diva of Dining, died in 2020 after battling cancer.

Houston Restaurant Weeks runs from Aug. 1 until Sept. 6 this year.
It has never been in our human nature to leave well enough alone. We're granted something good in life and promptly ruin it with our arrogance, never satisfied or content. We riot after our sports team wins or loses, we produced "The Rise of Skywalker," and we have now created mac and cheese-flavored ice cream.

New York City-based ice creamery Van Leeuwen decided to observe National Mac and Cheese Day (July 14, if you're wondering) by teaming up with Kraft Macaroni & Cheese to create a cold, cheesy concoction ostensibly geared toward those with pregnancy cravings or literal children. And yes, you can currently get mac and cheese ice cream right here in Houston's Rice Village at one of Van Leeuwen's scoop shops.

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And because I believe in suffering for my art, I headed to Rice Village minutes after opening to sample this science experiment.

Abigail Rosenthal/Chron

Coincidentally, I wasn't the only one there with an apparent hunger for cheese-flavored ice cream at 11:15 a.m. on a Wednesday. Two customers ahead of me ordered scoops as I waited.

"Is it good?" a woman asked as an employee handed her a scoop of the concoction.

Her response was not heartening.

"Ehhhhhhh," said the Van Leeuwen employee, unwilling to speak ill of the $6 ball of neon orange the customer had ordered.

Abigail Rosenthal/Chron

I steeled myself and handed over my $6, thinking longingly of the pint of Creamy Creations back home in my freezer.

STAY COOL: Where to get soft serve ice cream and custard in Houston

What I received was a perfectly round, strikingly orange scoop of ice cream. I took a breath and took a bite.

It's...weird. This ice cream has notes of salted caramel and would maybe be passable if you didn't know it was modeled after a Kraft dinner. But it is modeled after a Kraft dinner, and that knowledge clouds every bite. The color, akin to the liquified cheese remnants at the bottom of a plastic bowl after a sad overcooked pasta meal, doesn't help.

And the aftertaste... the aftertaste is exactly that of Kraft Macaroni & Cheesenothing I've ever yearned for from a dessert but possibly a scientific marvel.

I didn't puke. That's the highest praise I can offer.

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What's that quote from "Jurassic Park"? "Your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didnt stop to think if they should."

They might as well have been talking about this ice cream.

I can only hope that we will learn from our mistakes, but history says otherwise. My only plea is this: Let's just leave ice cream alone.
LAKE COUNTY  While the spacious forests and pristine lakes, rivers and creeks of Lake County call to nature enthusiasts, and the quiet towns with deep roots instill a sense of close-knit community, Rev. Fr. Matt Barnum has found himself right at home since being appointed as priest at St. Ann, St. Ignatius and St. Bernard Catholic churches in Lake County on July 1.

The appointment of Fr. Barnum to the parishes in Baldwin, Luther and Irons was announced by the Diocese of Grand Rapids in May, and follows a year and four months since parishioners at St. Ann-St. Ignatius have been without a pastor with the death of Rev. Fr. Ron Schneider. Furthermore, with the retirement of Rev. Fr. Dennis O'Donnel at St. Bernard in Irons, all three Catholic parishes in Lake County now share the same priest for the first time.

After Fr. Schneider's death in March of 2020, Rev. Fr. Tom Page, pastor at St. Jude Catholic Church in Grand Rapids, was assigned as administrator at St. Ann-St. Ignatius, and celebrated Mass in Baldwin and Luther, along with Rev. Fr. Danny Orris, associate pastor at St. Jude, as well as other priests, occasionally, such as Rev. Fr. Tony Pelak and Rev. Fr. Dick Host, for the past year.

Before coming to Lake County, since 2009, Fr. Barnum had his first assignment as pastor at St. Mary, St. Jean the Batpiste and Our Lady of Grace, in Muskegon.

Now 12 years later, at age 41, finding himself ministering in Lake County, Fr. Barnum is excited for all that awaits him and his three dogs, Inga, Molly and Maggie, who he claims are "friendly by day and great alarms by night."

"I am very pleased to be in Lake County. It is kind of like I won the lottery," Fr. Barnum said, explaining how he is very familiar with the county, and came up here often with his family when he was growing up. "I am definitely an outdoorsman. Throw me in the middle of the woods or river and I'll be content."

Fr. Page feels Fr. Barnum is a great fit for Lake County and will bring a lot to the table.

"Twelve years ago, Fr. Matt followed me (as pastor) at St. Mary's and St. Jean the Baptiste in Muskegon," Fr. Page said. "People found at first we were very different. I was tall and he was not. I was middle-aged and he was young. But after the initial shock, people learned to love and appreciate all of his gifts P.s., he's still short, but he's no longer young."

Fr. Barnum first felt the calling to a life of ministry when the priest at a parish he was attending preached about vocations during the month of November.

"Each passing Sunday I contemplated his messages, and by the end of the month, I just felt God pulling on my heart," he said, knowing then he was supposed to become a priest. "My first priority is to glorify God. My second priority is to share that love and glory with other people."

Fr. Barnum is on the board of directors at Catholic Charities of West Michigan, and while in Muskegon, was able to bring in $100,000 in the course of seven years to the Muskegon baby pantry.

"My priority is unborn babies and babies," he said. "We can't feed and clothe them later if they're not with us."

St. Ann parishioner and Bread of Life Food Pantry member Lynne Mills is excited about Fr. Barnum's passion to help others, which she feels will be perfect for the Lake County and follows the footsteps of priests who were his predecessor's at St. Ann-St. Ignatius.

"We are looking forward to Fr. Matt's ideas and having him in the community," Mills said. "Fr. Ron (Schneider) was very involved in the community. He's not just coming to this parish - he's coming to the whole town. He's partial to the pantry. He's on the Catholic Charities of West Michigan. He's going to bring a lot to the community."

Parish member Rose Dingman also is happy to have Fr. Barnum as priest, mentioning her amusement when he announced he was a blood relative of circus master P.T. Barnum, and how he brings his own circus with him, his three dogs, (who parishioners from his previous church, Joe and Teresa Dault), even donated fencing for at the rectory.

"It is wonderful having Fr. Matt here. He is so open and accessible," Dingman said. She also gave a shout-out to the priests who have filled in since the death of Fr. Schneider.

"We have been so fortunate for Fr. Tom Page and Fr. Danny Orris to be with us this past year. They were not just priests - but friends. They became part of our family," she said.

Fr. Barnum said his first couple weeks at St. Ann, St. Ignatius and St. Bernard has been great.

"I love it. There are such great people here. Wherever I go I like to lay down roots," he explained. "I am not just here as a visitor."
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP)  A fund formed in response to the deadly racial violence four years ago in Charlottesville, Virginia, said Thursday it will award $3 million in grants to more than three dozen groups and sites nationwide to help preserve landmarks linked to Black history.

Recipients of money from the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund include a consortium of civil rights sites and Black churches in Alabama; work to establish an African American heritage trail in Colorado; and preservation of the church where Emmett Till's funeral was held in Chicago after his lynching in Mississippi in 1955.

Other grants announced Thursday include money to hire a director for Save Harlem Now!, a historic preservation effort in New York; repairs to the African American Museum and Library in Oakland, California; and research on enslaved people at Hacienda La Esperanza in Puerto Rico.

Grants ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 will go to recipients that represent centuries of Black experience and help tell the full story of U.S. history, said Brent Leggs, executive director of the fund. The nation should value the link between architecture and racial justice, Leggs said.

I think it is critically important to acknowledge that the nation may be rich in diverse history but it has often done a poor job in representing that history, he said.

Grants are going to projects in 17 states plus Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia.

The Action Fund was established by the National Trust for Historic Preservation after clashes during the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville in 2017 ended with the death of Heather Heyer, a civil rights activist. A white supremacist demonstrator who drove his car into a group of people was convicted in her killing and sentenced to life.

These grants will positively impact 40 communities nation-wide and result in the creation of a visible, preserved legacy of African American contributions," Lonnie Bunch, the first Black person to lead the Smithsonian Institution, said in a statement.

The Action Fund, with $50 million in funding from private donors, calls itself the largest effort ever to preserve sites linked to African American history.

___

This story has been updated to correct the spelling of Lonnie Bunchs last name.
CHICAGO (AP)  A 9-year-old riding his bicycle along a Chicago street was struck and killed by a pickup truck driven by an off-duty Chicago police officer.

Fraternal Order of Police President John Catanzara said the officer, who hasnt been identified, says he didnt see Hershel Weinberger before hitting him Wednesday evening.
MOBILE, Ala. (AP)  An Alabama police officer was arrested on a charge of domestic violence after his wife accused him of choking her during a dispute over another woman, police and court records showed Thursday.

Officer Daniel Marlin, 35, was placed on leave from the Mobile Police Department until the case is resolved, according to a statement from the agency. He's charged with strangulation, but his wife survived.
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BOSTON (AP)  A handful of Massachusetts lawmakers are hoping to create a new front line of defense against sex trafficking by training hotel workers to recognize signs of exploitation.

The bill, which was heard Wednesday before the Legislatures Judiciary Committee, would require hotels to develop a human trafficking recognition program.

Rep. Tom Walsh, one of those sponsoring the bill, said hotel workers could play a critical role on the front lines of battling sex trafficking, which can often occur in hotels.

Walsh said he filed the bill after riding along with FBI agents and local police who were investigating sex trafficking cases in his district, according to the Eagle-Tribune.

The human trafficking industry really runs on that Interstate 95 corridor between Florida up to the Canadian border, the Peabody Democrat told the committee. Its an incredibly horrible situation.

The proposed training, must be approved by the attorney generals office before being overseen by local police departments.

The training would focus on educating hotel workers on signs of exploitation, including multiple individuals coming and going from a single room, according to Walsh.

It legislation would also require hotels to post written notice in multiple languages urging victims of sexual exploitation to call a hotline providing access to law enforcement and supportive services.

The vast majority of victims are women, girls and boys, said State Rep. Sally Kerans, another supporter of the bill,

Whats also shocking to think is any of us checking into a hotel or motel could be feet away from someone trapped in prostitution, the Danvers Democrat told the committee. Its not only in the small one-level motels on highways, but often in the more respectable business level hotels that sex buyers conduct their exploitation.

Four states  California, Connecticut, Minnesota and New Jersey  require sex exploitation training for hotel workers according to the American Hotel & Lodging Association Educational Foundation, according to the Eagle-Tribune. Eleven states recommend training.

At least 13 states, including Maine and New York, also require hotels to post signs about sex trafficking hotlines and other information.

Hotel workers can be trained to recognize red flags from the moment they sign someone in at the front desk, to when they go in to clean their rooms, said Lisa Goldblatt Grace, co-founder and executive director of the sexual trafficking survivors group My Life My Choice.
LINCOLN, Neb. (AP)  The company that's building casinos in Nebraska after voters legalized them announced plans Thursday for another facility in Norfolk.

WarHorse Gaming, LLC said it will pitch a horse-racing track and eventual casino at the DeVent Center.
U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy on Thursday called for a national effort to fight misinformation about COVID-19 and vaccines, urging tech companies, health care workers, journalists and everyday Americans to do more to address a serious public threat.

In a 22-page advisory, his first as President Joe Bidens surgeon general, Murthy wrote that bogus claims have led people to reject vaccines and public health advice on masks and social distancing, undermining efforts to end the coronavirus pandemic and putting lives at risk.

RELATED: Meet the New York couple donating millions to the anti-vax movement

The warning comes as the pace of COVID-19 vaccinations has slowed throughout the U.S., in part because of vaccine opposition fueled by unsubstantiated claims about the safety of immunizations and despite the U.S. death toll recently passing 600,000.

Limiting the spread of health misinformation is a moral and civic imperative that will require a whole-of-society effort, wrote Murthy, who also served as surgeon general under former President Barack Obama.

Health misinformation was a global problem even before the internet and social media allowed dangerous claims to spread faster and easier than ever before. The problem of COVID-19 misinformation is so great that the World Health Organization has deemed it an infodemic.

Given the role the internet plays in spreading health misinformation, Murthy said technology companies and social media platforms should make meaningful changes to their products and software to reduce the spread of misinformation while increasing access to authoritative, fact-based sources.

Teachers, he said, should expand education on media literacy and critical thinking. Journalists, he suggested, should work to responsibly debunk health misinformation without inadvertently spreading it further. And public health officials and doctors, he suggested, should do a better job answering questions and explaining why public health guidelines sometimes change based on new information.

As for everyday Americans, Murthy urged them to verify questionable health information with trusted sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and to exercise critical thinking when exposed to unverified claims. If you have loved ones or friends who believe or spread misinformation, he said, it's best to engage by listening and asking questions rather than by confronting them.

RELATED: Fauci Calls Anti-Vax Cheers at CPAC 'Horrifying'

While some groups that push health misinformation do so for profit, Murthy wrote that many Americans may be spreading bogus information without intending to cause harm.

Misinformation hasnt just harmed our physical health  it has also divided our families, friends, and communities," Murthy wrote. The only way to address health misinformation is to recognize that all of us, in every sector of society, have a responsibility to act.

___

Klepper reported from Providence, R.I.
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP)  New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo is expected to be interviewed Saturday as the state attorney general's office winds down its investigation into sexual harassment and misconduct allegations that upended his national reputation and threatened his hold on power as he gears up to run for a fourth term next year.

The timing of the interview in Albany, the states capital, was confirmed Thursday to The Associated Press by two people familiar with the investigation. They were not authorized to speak publicly about the case and did so on condition of anonymity.

Investigators were always expected to speak with Cuomo, who said at the start of the probe in March that he would fully cooperate." Cuomo is also facing an impeachment inquiry in the state assembly.

Saturday's interview signals that investigators are nearly done with their work, which has included interviews with the governor's accusers, though they may need some time to tie up loose ends before a report is issued.

Several women have accused Cuomo, a Democrat, of unwanted kisses, touches and groping and inappropriate sexual remarks.

Cuomo initially apologized and said that he learned an important lesson about his behavior around women, though he's since denied that he did anything wrong and questioned the motivations of accusers and fellow Democrats whove called for his resignation.

Cuomo, in office since 2011, has rebuffed calls to step aside over the allegations.

Cuomos popularity has dipped this year: about 62% of voters said Cuomo should resign or not seek re-election in a late June poll by Siena College. Still, supporters point out that 61% of Democrats in that poll said they have a favorable opinion of him.

A message seeking comment was left with Cuomo's lawyer, Rita Glavin. A Cuomo spokesperson said Thursday he had no comment. The state attorney general's office declined comment.

We have said repeatedly that the governor doesnt want to comment on this review until he has cooperated, but the continued leaks are more evidence of the transparent political motivation of the attorney generals review," Cuomo senior advisor Richard Azzopardi said.

The scheduled interview with Cuomo was reported first by The New York Times.

Former aide Lindsey Boylan accuses Cuomo of having harassed her throughout her employment and said he once suggested a game of strip poker aboard his state-owned jet.

Another former aide, Charlotte Bennett, said Cuomo once asked her if she ever had sex with older men. Bennett's lawyer, Debra Katz, said Bennett met via Zoom for more than four hours with investigators and also provided them with 120 pages of records to corroborate her accusations.

A message seeking comment was left with Katz and lawyers for Boylan and another Cuomo accuser, aide Alyssa McGrath.

The investigation into the allegations against Cuomo is being overseen by the state's independently elected attorney general, Letitia James, who named former federal prosecutor Joon Kim and employment discrimination attorney Anne Clark to conduct the probe and document its findings in a public report.

Azzopardis statement Thursday was at least the second time that Cuomos top spokesperson has claimed James, also a Democrat, and her probe were politically motivated. Azzopardi didn't provide evidence Thursday that the attorney general had leaked information.

In April, Azzopardi blasted James for confirming her office was also investigating whether Cuomo broke the law by having staff help write and promote his recent memoir, American Crisis: Leadership Lessons From the Covid-19 Pandemic."

Both the comptroller and the attorney general have spoken to people about running for governor and it is unethical to wield criminal referral authority to further political self-interest, Azzopardi said at the time.

Some of Cuomos top allies in the state Legislature have called on the public to await the results of James investigation and not to undermine her integrity.

Sen. Gustavo Rivera, a Bronx Democrat, said he trusts the independent investigators selected by James, and said their credibility and professionalism cant be questioned.

There was a sense from people early on that because the governor was so instrumental in helping her become AG that she would then become responsive to his political needs, Rivera, Senate health committee chair, said. Now shes proven over and over again that shes responsible to the people of the state of New York.

Manhattan Assemblymember Richard Gottfried, Democrat and Assembly health committee chair, agreed: Tish James is not going to let anyone undermine her."

Sen. John Liu, majority assistant whip, called Azzopardis statement the typical Cuomo playbook.

Obviously, Cuomos trying to undermine the AG, Liu said.

Those kinds of comments, trying to run interference, trying to deflect, trying to implicate, at least politically  my read of it is that folks in the governors circle including the governor are at least nervous and at most running terrified, said Liu, a Queens Democrat who, like Gottfried and Rivera, has called on Cuomo to resign.

This years legislative session has concluded, but lawmakers could return later in the summer or fall if the probe winds up.

I think Tish James is being as thorough as she can, knowing that no matter what she will be accused of politics," Liu said.

The state Assembly's judiciary committee has launched its own probe into whether there are grounds to impeach the governor on issues from sexual misconduct to his administration's reporting of COVID-19 deaths among nursing homer residents.

Its also unclear when the Assembly investigation will wrap up, but its likely it'll be after James' investigation concludes. Boylan has said she only wants to speak with investigators in the attorney general's probe.

Liu said the AGs report and recommendations will "carry a great deal of weight with lawmakers.

___

Balsamo reported from Washington, D.C. Sisak reported from Port St. Lucie, Florida.
HINGHAM, Mass. (AP)  A driver who swerved to avoid a squirrel in the road crashed into a Massachusetts home that was built in 1650 by an ancestor of Abraham Lincoln, police said Thursday.

Neither the driver nor the occupants of the Hingham home known as the Samuel Lincoln House were injured in the crash that occurred at about 6:30 a.m., police said on Facebook.
(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.)

Tamar Lichter Blanks, Rutgers University

(THE CONVERSATION) When Albert Einstein wrote an obituary for Emmy Noether in 1935, he described her as a creative mathematical genius who  despite unselfish, significant work over a period of many years  did not get the recognition she deserved.

Noether made groundbreaking contributions to mathematics at a time when women were barred from academia and when Jewish people like herself faced persecution in Nazi Germany, where she lived.

The year 2021 marks the 100th anniversary of Noethers landmark paper on ring theory, a branch of theoretical mathematics that is still fascinating and challenging mathematicians like me today.

I remember the first time I learned about Noether and the surprise I felt when my professor referred to the brilliant ring theorist as she. Even though I am a woman doing mathematics, I had assumed Noether would be a man. I was surprised at how moved I was to learn she was a woman, too.

Her inspiring story is one that not many people know.

A rare woman in mathematics

Noether was born in 1882 in Erlangen, Germany. Her father was a math professor, but it must have seemed unlikely to a young Noether that she would follow in his footsteps. At the time, few women took classes at German universities, and when they did they could only audit them. Teaching at a university was out of the question.

But in 1903  a few years after Noether graduated from a high school for girls  Erlangen University started to let women enroll. Noether signed up and eventually earned her doctorate in mathematics there.

That doctorate should have been the end of her mathematical career. At the time, women were still not allowed to teach at universities in Germany. But Noether stuck with mathematics anyway, staying in Erlangen and unofficially supervising doctoral students without pay. In 1915, she applied for a position at the prestigious University of Gottingen. The dean at the university, also a mathematician, was in favor of hiring Noether, although his argument was far from feminist.

I think the female brain is unsuitable for mathematical production, he wrote, but Noether stood out as one of the rare exceptions.

Unfortunately for Noether, the Prussian Ministry of Education would not give the university permission to have a woman on their faculty, no matter how talented. Noether stayed in Gottingen anyway and taught courses listed under the name of a male faculty member.

During those years, she kept doing research. While she was still an unofficial lecturer, Noether made important contributions to theoretical physics and Einsteins theory of relativity. The university finally granted her lecturer status in 1919  four years after she applied.

A revolution in ring theory

In 1921, only two years after becoming an official lecturer, Noether published revolutionary discoveries in ring theory that mathematicians are still pondering and building upon today. Noethers work in ring theory is the main reason that I, like many mathematicians today, know her name.

Ring theory is the study of mathematical objects called rings. Despite the name, these rings have nothing to do with circles or ring-shaped objects  theoretical or otherwise. In mathematics, a ring is a set of items you can add, subtract and multiply and always get another object that is in the set.

A classic example is the ring known as Z. It is made of all the integers  positive and negative whole numbers like 0, 1, 2, 3, -1, -2, -3 and so on  and it is a ring because if you add, subtract or multiply two integers, you always get another integer.

There are infinitely many rings, and each one is different. A ring can be made of numbers, functions, matrices, polynomials or other abstract objects  as long as theres a way to add, subtract and multiply them.

One reason rings are so interesting to mathematicians is that often it is possible to tell something is a ring, but its difficult to know much about the specifics of that particular ring. Its like seeing a croissant at a fancy bakery. You know you are looking at a croissant, but you might not know whether its filled with almond paste, chocolate or something else altogether.

Instead of focusing on one ring at a time, Noether showed that a whole class of easy-to-identify rings all share a common internal structure, like a row of houses with the same floor plan. These rings are now called Noetherian rings, and the structure they share is like a map that guides the mathematicians who study them.

Noetherian rings show up all the time in modern mathematics. Mathematicians still use Noethers map today, not just in ring theory, but in other areas such as number theory and algebraic geometry.

Escape from Nazi Germany

Noether published her famous ring theory paper and other important results in mathematics while she was a lecturer in Gottingen from 1919 to 1933. But in the spring of 1933, the University of Gottingen received a telegram: Six faculty members  including Noether  had to stop teaching immediately. The Nazis had passed a law barring Jews from professorship.

Noethers response, it seems, was calm. This thing is much less terrible for me than it is for many others, she wrote in a letter to a fellow mathematician. But she was out of a job, and no university in Germany could hire her.

Help came from the United States. Bryn Mawr, a womens college in Pennsylvania, offered Noether a professorship through a special fund for refugee German scholars. Noether accepted the offer and, as a professor at Bryn Mawr, she mentored four younger women  one doctoral student and three postdoctoral researchers  in advanced mathematics.

Noethers time at Bryn Mawr was, tragically, short. In 1935 she had surgery to remove a tumor and died unexpectedly four days later.

At Noethers funeral, mathematician Hermann Weyl compared her sudden passing to the echo of a thunderclap. In her short life, Noether shook up mathematics. She kept teaching and learning even when women and Jews were not welcome. One hundred years later, her mathematical genius and unbreakable optimism are qualities to admire.

[Understand new developments in science, health and technology, each week. Subscribe to The Conversations science newsletter.]

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/emmy-noether-faced-sexism-and-nazism-100-years-later-her-contributions-to-ring-theory-still-influence-modern-math-163245.
BRUSSELS (AP)  The European Union intensified a legal fight with Poland and Hungary on Thursday over respect for fundamental human rights and the rule of law, which critics say are increasingly strained in the EU's two leading eastern nations.

The EU's top court, the European Court of Justice, ruled Thursday that Polands way of disciplining high judges contravenes EU law and undermines judicial independence, and told the country's right-wing government to change it. The European Commission also started legal action against Poland and Hungary for what the EU's executive arm sees as blatant disrespect for the rights of LGBT people.

The court ruling was the latest development in a six-year dispute stemming from the Polish government asserting more control over the judicial system. The Luxembourg-based European Court of Justice issued it the day after Poland's Constitutional Court ruled that temporary injunctions issued by the EU court regarding the national judiciary were non-binding.

In a statement, however, the Court of Justice said that the disciplinary regime for judges in Poland is not compatible with EU law, since it opens up the independent judicial branch to political interference.

The government in Warsaw has increasingly denounced EU actions against its decisions on the judiciary as politically motivated and has pushed for years to shake off the guidance and supervisory role of the EU justice system.

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki dismissed Thursday's ruling as a "typical dispute of the doctrine and insisted that the EU court has no authority on the shaping of the justice systems in individual member nations.

The head of Polands parliamentary commission for justice, Marek Ast, agreed, saying that "the organization of the justice system is the sole competence of EU member states. Secondly, the standards that ECJ is drawing from the EU treaties are not in line with Polands Constitution.

It brought into sharp view the dispute over national law versus EU law, and which trumps which.

For the EU Commission there is no doubt: "The EU law has primacy over national law and all decisions by the European Court of Justice, including orders for interim measures, are binding on member states authorities and national courts, chief spokesperson Eric Mamer said.

The EU's belief in its primacy is based on the principle that when countries join the bloc, they take on all of its rules and responsibilities if they also want to reap the rewards. Poland and Hungary both joined in 2004 and drove their economic emergence from communist rule partly on EU subsidies and aid.

Under right-wing, nationalist governments in recent years, the two EU members have increasingly veered away from the Brussels orthodoxy.

And EU headquarters has applied pressure to safeguard the 27-nation bloc's democratic cornerstones. The European Commission said it opened the legal action against Poland because Warsaw had provided insufficient information on regions and cities promoting themselves as LGBT ideology-free zones.

The commission launched the action against Hungary over a law that it considers discriminatory against lesbians, gay men, and bisexual and transgender people. The law, which took effect a week ago, outlaws disseminating LGBT-related content in schools or promoting it to children.

New budget rules allow the EU to stem the flow of subsidies to member states that do not respect the bloc's basic rule of law principles. Hungary and Poland could become the first test cases.

The European Court of Justice ruling came after the EU Commission complained to the court that Poland was digressing from rule of law cornerstones underpinning the EU treaty. In the case concerned, the commission believes that the independence and impartiality of a court chamber the government established to discipline judges and prosecutors cannot be guaranteed, and that the chamber's actions could potentially affect the application of justice.

Poland's ruling Law and Justice party claims the 2017 establishment of the Disciplinary Chamber was part of its efforts to reform an inefficient judicial system riven with corruption. Critics see that as a pretext for seizing control of the country's courts.

Many judges and lawyers allege the chamber is being used to pressure judges to issue rulings that favor the ruling authorities. To date, while the ruling party has sought to exert control over the high courts and key judicial bodies, many lower court judges continue to assert their independence. Some have issued rulings against government officials or interests.

The chamber is composed of judges selected by the National Council of the Judiciary, a body whose own members are chosen by parliament, where Law and Justice holds a majority.

In upholding all the complaints made by the commission, the EU court issued a litany of perceived flaws in the Polish system, including that it leaves judges vulnerable to political control and pressure that influences decisions.

It said the Disciplinary Chamber does not provide all the guarantees of impartiality and independence and, in particular, is not protected from the direct or indirect influence of the Polish legislature and executive.

The court called on the Polish authorities to take the measures necessary to rectify the situation.

___

Monika Scislowska contributed from Warsaw
Markus Schreiber/AP

BERLIN (AP)  The European Unions top court ruled Thursday that employers may forbid the wearing of visible symbols of religious or political belief, such as headscarves.

But the Luxembourg-based tribunal said in its ruling that courts in the bloc's 27 member states should weigh up whether the ban corresponded to a genuine need" on the part of the employer. They must also consider the rights and interests of the employee, including by taking into account national legislation on freedom of religion, it said.
TRENTON, N.J. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month.

The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in New Jersey:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

New Jersey is one of several states that enacted a moratorium last year halting eviction proceedings. New Jersey's moratorium will remain in place until Jan. 1, 2022, at the latest because of a bill Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy signed into law. The moratorium doesn't affect when rent is due, and tenants still owe the rent.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

The state is providing $353 million in rental assistance to low- and moderate-income households experiencing a substantial reduction in income. The state has also gotten notice from the federal government that another $272 million under the American Rescue Plan will apply to rental assistance. The application period will remain open until all funding has been awarded, according to the Department of Community Affairs, and landlords can apply on behalf of tenants, with the tenants permission.

The state is also launching the Expanded Access to Counsel and Homelessness Diversion Anti-Eviction Pilot this summer to offer legal and safety-net services to low-income households facing eviction.

The state has also been notified by the federal government that it will be awarded nearly 1,000 vouchers for emergency housing assistance to help homeless people. That's in addition to 12 months of federal rental assistance to about 1,500 households facing homelessness.

Beyond that, the Democrat-led Legislature passed a budget appropriating $500 million in federal funds to help renters pay rent. The bill is being considered as part of the annual budget, which must be enacted by July 1.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Landlord-tenant trials are on hold until further notice in New Jersey. Other actions, like motions and settlement conferences, can continue. Under the state Supreme Courts July 14 order last year, evictions can only occur in emergencies and cannot be based on failing to pay rent. Trials can only be held in the event of the death of a tenant or if the court determines that an emergency exists, such as documented violence, criminal activity, or other health and safety concerns, according to the state courts.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

As of May, the median monthly rent in the New York-Newark-Jersey City area stayed flat over the last year at $2,400, according to a report released June 16 by Realtor.com. The metro New York region is considered among the priciest in the country.

In the Philadelphia-Camden area, rents climbed 3.2% to $1,600 overall.

Median rents for a two-bedroom apartment in the northern New Jersey area rose 6.9% to $2,725 as of May, according to the report, and 4.7% to $1,800 in southern New Jersey.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Its hard to say how much homelessness will increase in New Jersey. The U.S. census estimates that out of about 270,000 renters, about 91,000 are considered very likely to leave their homes because of evictions. New Jersey conducted a point-in-time count of homeless people in January, but the data is not yet available, according to the state Community Affairs Department.
HELENA, Mont. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month.. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Montana:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Montana renters are protected by the CDC order halting evictions until it expires. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates nearly 17,000 Montana residents are somewhat likely or very likely to be evicted from their homes in the next two months

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Montana has received more than $350 million in federal funding to help tenants with outstanding rent, utility payments and other expenses. Last year, it allocated $50 million from the federal CARES Act for rental assistance and ended up providing $8.4 million to 2,500 tenants. The $600 per week in supplemental unemployment payments last year appeared to be a factor in lower-than-expected application numbers early in the pandemic, the Department of Commerce said.

Late last year and this year, the state received another $352 million in federal emergency rental assistance, the minimum amount allocated to small states. Renters can receive up to $2,200 per month for past-due and future rent payments, up to $300 for utility payments and $50 per month for internet. Households are eligible for that assistance for a maximum of 15 months, dating back to April 1, 2020, if they earn less than 80% of the median income in their area and can show the pandemic affected their income.

However, tenants are also losing housing when rental units are sold to take advantage of the booming real estate market, when landlords stop accepting federal housing vouchers or raise rents out of the reach of some workers  situations that aren't protected under the federal moratorium. Even with the federal assistance, renters are having a difficult time finding places to live.

There just arent enough affordable housing options for Montana renters  even if theyve been good tenants in the same place for years. If the landlord decides to sell their building or raise their rent, theres nowhere for the renters to go, said Amy Hall, an attorney with the Montana Legal Services Association. Under Montana law, tenants with month-to-month leases can be given a 30-day notice of a rent increase.

So far under the new rental assistance program, the state has distributed $7.6 million to just under 1,300 households. Landlords can apply for the assistance on behalf of their renters.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Beginning last October, the state created the Montana Eviction Intervention Project, in partnership with the Montana Legal Services Association, to provide legal help to low-income renters facing eviction. Since then, attorneys have helped with 264 evictions statewide, helping 608 clients and their family members.

Of the attorneys who report data on their cases, 80% say tenants were behind on their rent directly because of COVID-19. Of the court cases filed, 73% resulted in an agreement to move out without an eviction on the tenant's record, which could otherwise make finding another rental very difficult.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

The National Low Income Housing Coalition says there are 46 affordable and available rentals in Montana for each 100 extremely low income household, defined as those whose income is at or below the poverty level, or 30% of the area median income, whichever is higher.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS? No clients assisted under the Montana Eviction Intervention Project have moved to a shelter or became homeless, the Montana Legal Services Association said.

However, Hall said a lack of available rental housing in the state's major cities has people moving to other towns, sharing housing with family or friends or possibly leaving the state.

In Montana since COVID, rental prices have increased, and the number of vacancies has decreased, Hall said. Thats a terrible combination, especially for renters with limited incomes or who lost work due to COVID. 
CHICAGO (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions that was enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, has been the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and have fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing that they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rent.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they would face eviction within the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Illinois:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

The state plans to end its own moratorium on evictions by August, sixteen months after Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued it.

Pritzker extended the order several times. After landlords of small properties complained that it was hurting them financially, the Democrat modified his order in November to require tenants to vouch that they met certain conditions.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

The state expects to provide $1.1 billion in rent relief payments to renters and landlords, plus $400 million that will be available in some cities. Pritzker's office estimated that the money could help more than 120,000 people.

Individuals can apply for up to $25,000 that would be paid directly to landlords. A separate $280 million program focuses on utility costs.

A new state law also seals records of any evictions between March 2020 and March 2022, aiming to prevent pandemic-related financial woes from deepening a renter's ability to get future housing.

Teri Ross, executive director of Illinois Legal Aid Online, also encouraged people who are behind in their rent payments to contact community groups that have received money from federal relief packages to offer aid or legal services.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

It varies, based on the renter's location. Ross said counties in the Chicago metropolitan area are not allowing landlords to file lawsuits seeking to boot tenants for being late on their rent.

Elsewhere, counties that have accepted eviction filings largely are not acting on them. Eviction orders entered before the pandemic began and those based on health and safety concerns have been allowed to proceed in the state.

But advocates expect that court hearings and eviction enforcement will resume once the federal and state moratoriums end.

The Illinois Housing Development Authority is providing training on rent relief and other assistance to judges around the state. The agency's director, Kristin Faust, said the goal is to encourage landlords and tenants to enter mediation rather than move toward eviction. Housing advocates said some counties already have embraced that approach and hope it will help some renters stay in their homes while giving their landlords financial relief.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

As of May, the median monthly rent for studio and one or two-bedroom apartments in the Chicago area had dropped by 1.9% over the past year, to $1,650, according to a report released June 16 by Realtor.com. Median rents for a two-bedroom apartment increased by 5.6%, to $1,900.

Those prices are far out of reach for many renters in the city and surrounding suburbs, said Karla Chrobak, a supervising attorney with CARPLS Legal Aid, an organization that provides free legal help in Cook County.

Chrobak said clients seeking the groups help already struggled to find affordable housing before the pandemic, making the prospect of being evicted now terrifying.

The Lawyers' Committee for Better Housing, a Chicago nonprofit that helps low-income renters, found that evictions in the city declined from 2010 through 2019. But the organization also highlighted an apparent link between the similarly sinking unemployment rate and the eviction trend.

In a December report, the organization worried that higher unemployment rates during the pandemic portended a looming surge in evictions this year.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Ross said community organizations around the state are in fear of seeing mass evictions.

I hope that we see communities working together, landlords and tenants, she said. Keeping communities stable is largely dependent on keeping people housed consistently  not precariously.

One indication of the scope of the problem is recent census data showing that 100,578 Illinois residents were concerned that they could be evicted within the next two months.

Faust, director of the state agency managing rent relief, hopes shared efforts to keep tenants in their homes will help Illinois avoid mass evictions.

Were going through a shared trauma here and were going to deal with it together and were going to address it together, she said.
WASHINGTON (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Washington, D.C.:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA?

Washington, D.C., has its own local ban on evictions, imposed by the District of Columbia Council in March 2020. The city's moratorium is tied to the public health emergency declared by Mayor Muriel Bowser, which is set to expire on July 25, about a week before the national eviction moratorium ends.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

In April, Bowser devoted $350 million in federal aid to help qualifying tenants pay overdue rent and utility bills. But some members of the D.C. Council have complained that not enough people are taking advantage of the program because the eviction ban was removing any sense of urgency. In May, the council briefly considered allowing eviction filings again to prompt tenants and landlords to take advantage of the aid, but the idea was voted down amid public criticism.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Landlords in the district are prohibited from filing for eviction for non-payment. A group of landlords had sued to be permitted to start eviction proceedings that wouldn't be carried out until after the ban was lifted. The case remains tied up in court.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE DISTRICT'S RENTAL MARKET?

Affordable housing is a major problem in Washington, D.C., with rents rising as the city has become wealthier in recent years. Many Black tenants complain of being displaced by rapid gentrification. The district has long been majority Black, but that population has dropped below 50%.

Washington received more than $2.3 billion in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan, and Bowser devoted more than $500 million to a variety of programs to build more affordable housing or refurbish existing housing.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

According to the National Council for State Housing Agencies, tenants in Washington, D.C., owed between $66 million and $119 million in back rent as of January. The group estimated that at as many as 15,000 district residents are in danger of eviction when the ban ends.

But Bowser and the council seem intent on avoiding a surge of people losing their homes, repeatedly siding with tenants. The districts budget is flush with federal assistance money, and a city task force has recommended that a gradual phased end to the eviction ban be devised when the time comes.
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month.

The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in New York:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

New York is one of several states that enacted a moratorium last year halting eviction proceedings. New York state law protects tenants from evictions  but only if they submit paperwork to the state stating they have a hardship.

That state law expires at the end of August. But tenants who apply for rental assistance will still have protection from eviction, even if they dont hear back from the state before the law expires.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

This year, the state set up a $2 billion fund that will provide up to 12 months of past-due rent and utility bills to eligible households. New Yorkers that spend 30% or more of their monthly income on rent can also receive up to three months of extra rental aid. Renters who earn at or below 80% of area median income qualify.

Payments go directly to landlords, who must agree to waive late fees due on past-due rent and to not increase monthly rent or evict tenants in most scenarios.

New York set up the fund as part of the state budget passed April 7  but it didnt release an application for tenants and landlords to fill out until June 1. Ellen Davidson, staff attorney with the Legal Aid Society, said state lawmakers have eased paperwork requirements that slowed rental relief last year.

The state told AP it expects to process cases four to six weeks after a completed application is submitted; its received at least 110,000 so far.

New Yorkers needing help paying their energy bill can also apply to the Home Energy Assistance Program before Aug. 31.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Davidson said that landlords in New York have been able to bring about lawsuits over evictions since last summer. But tenants are protected if they submit a hardship declaration form that tells the state they lost income or had more expenses during the pandemic or that moving would harm their health. If tenants dont sign it, a landlord can move forward with the case like if there were no laws on the books, Davidson said.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

New York City is often viewed as one of the nations costliest and most competitive housing markets: From 2007 to 2017 in New York City, the share of affordable rental units declined by 12.1 and 9.7 percentage points for low- and moderate-income households, according to a 2019 report by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. He found 2.8 million of 7.3 million households statewide were spending more than 30% of household income on housing.

The median rental price in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens was $3,195 in May  a 7% increase from April and a 10% drop compared to May 2020, according to a report by real estate company Douglas Elliman.

As of May, the median monthly rent in the New York City metropolitan area was flat over the last year to $2,400, according to a report released June 16 by Realtor.com. Median rents for a two-bedroom apartment averaged $2,725, up 7%. Meanwhile, rent for studios was down 14% to $2,002.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Davidson said New Yorks law is much stronger than the CDC moratorium, and doesnt expect any increase in homelessness in the state because tenants are protected by the state law.

More than one in five New York households are behind on rent, according to the left-leaning Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, and one-fifth of households with children cant afford to buy enough food to eat.
A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year has been extended from June 30 until July 31. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without more time, advocates foresee a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Rhode Island:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

The only protection against eviction currently in place in Rhode Island is the federal governments moratorium. The state never imposed its own ban, though the legal proceedings were effectively halted while state courts were shuttered during the early months of the pandemic, said Brenda Clement, director of Housing Works RI, an advocacy and research group based at Roger Williams University. The Legislature is considering bills that would enact a statewide moratorium, but so far no action has been taken.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Democratic Gov. Daniel McKee launched RentReliefRI this spring using $200 million in federal money. Rhode Island Housing, the state agency overseeing the effort, said it has provided more than 100 families with more than $1 million in assistance to date. More than 2,500 others are in the process of being certified, according to U.S. Sen. Jack Reed's office. The program helps cover rent and utilities owed back to last April as well as up to three months of upcoming rent. Applicants can receive up to 18 months of assistance. The state also provided a combined $13.5 million to roughly 3,000 households through two other rent-relief programs launched during the pandemic that have since wound down: HousingHelpRI and Safe Harbor.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Hearings are proceeding in person by appointment, but executing court orders for non-payment of rent have been put on hold until the lifting of the federal moratorium, said Craig Berke, spokesperson for the state court system. Decisions in residential eviction cases in which there are safety concerns, such as property damage or change in ownership, however, are being enforced, he said. Through June 15, there were roughly 1,300 eviction filings for non-payment of rent, compared with more than 1,500 through the same period last year and more than 3,000 in 2019, according to court data.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

As of May, the median monthly rent in the Providence metro area had risen 9% over the last year to $1,750, according to a report released June 16 by Realtor.com. Median rents for a two-bedroom apartment rose 12% to $1,975. The vacancy rate in Providence is about 5.8%, down from about 6.1% last year, according to Rhode Island housing. Statewide its around 3.3%, down from 4.24% this time last year.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Lifting the eviction moratorium will be devastating to Rhode Island, which already had the highest eviction rate in New England, even before the pandemic, said Kristina Contreras Fox, a policy analyst at the Rhode Island Coalition to End Homelessness. We have virtually no housing stock, she said. So when Rhode Islanders get evicted, they and their families have literally nowhere to go. Brenda Clement, of Housing Works RI, added theres already a waiting list for homeless shelters and more than 100 people have been temporarily placed in hotels across the state as a result. Another indication of the looming problem is census data showing nearly 6,000 state residents concerned that they could be evicted over the next two months.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Tennessee:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Like many states, Tennessee never enacted a moratorium last year that would have halted eviction proceedings. Instead, the state is under the CDC moratorium.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Earlier this year, the Tennessee Housing Development Agency announced it received $384 million in federal funding to be used for rental assistance. The statewide program is estimated to help 25,000 to 30,000 families cover up to 12 months of rent or utility payments as long as the financial difficulties were sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program applies to 91 out of Tennessees 95 counties, with the states largest metro areas excluded because they have their own federally funded rent relief programs.

Attorneys representing tenants, however, note that some relief has been difficult to obtain due to qualification requirements or landlords refusing to participate in the rent relief process.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Eviction cases where a judge determined the tenant was not protected by the CDC declaration have been allowed to proceed in Tennessee. According to Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and The Cumberlands, many landlords who pursued evictions during the moratorium did so to assert nonrenewal of a lease.

This was true even if the tenant initially asserted protection from eviction under the CDC moratorium only to see their lease expire some time later, said Zachary Oswald, managing attorney with Legal Aid. Because the moratorium has been in place since last September, nearly 80% of leases would have expired in the 10 months that have since passed.

Oswald added that his group is expecting a deluge of cases once the moratorium is lifted.

WHAT IS THE AFFORDABILITY IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Over the past year, Tennessees most populated cities saw some of the highest rent increases in the country. Memphis rents jumped by more than 17% compared to last year, according to a new report from Realtor.com that analyzed the top 50 largest metros areas. That means Memphis median rent hovers around $1,092 a month but the median rent for a two-bedroom place is now $1,140. Only Riverside, California saw a bigger spike in rents.

Meanwhile, in Nashville, rent went up around 5.5% over the past year, with the median rent now $1,390.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Homelessness is difficult to estimate, but housing experts warn that evictions and eviction lawsuits are expected to jump once the CDC moratorium lifts. One indication of the scope of the problem is census data showing nearly 55,000 adults who fear being evicted over the next two months.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions that was enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, has been the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and have fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing that they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rent.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they would face eviction within the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Wisconsin:

WHATS THE STATUS OF OTHER EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Democratic Gov. Tony Evers issued an order in March 2020 barring landlords from evicting tenants as the pandemic took hold in Wisconsin. The order expired that May, though, and the state Supreme Court ruled in March 2021 that Evers can't issue multiple emergency orders for a single crisis, preventing him from imposing another state moratorium, the governor's office said.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Evers' administration has relied heavily on federal pandemic relief money to help tenants make ends meet. The Department of Administration dedicated about $35 million from the CARES Act last year to help roughly 13,000 tenants pay overdue rent and utility bills. That assistance ended at the end of the year.

The Trump administration, however, allocated about $385 million for rental assistance in Wisconsin in December. About $65 million of that has gone directly to the state's six most populous jurisdictions: Brown, Dane, Milwaukee and Waukesha counties and the cities of Madison and Milwaukee. The remaining money was earmarked for the rest of the state.

So far this year, about $33 million has gone to roughly 9,700 tenants in smaller communities. DOA Secretary Joel Brennan said he didn't have exact figures on spending in the six metropolitan jurisdictions, but he estimated that taken together, a total of about 20,000 tenants have received assistance since this April.

Renters who earn up to 80% of their county's median income can apply for aid through local social organizations that are acting as conduits between the state and tenants. The money can be used to cover up to 15 months of rent.

The Biden administration has allocated another $250 million for rental assistance in Wisconsin through the American Rescue Plan Act, but the state has received only a small amount of that aid so far, Brennan said.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Legal Action of Wisconsin, which provides free legal services to low-income people, has twice asked the state Supreme Court to halt all eviction proceedings in light of the CDC moratorium. The conservative-leaning court refused both times, saying in its latest denial in May that the Legislature, not the court, should decide whether to tilt the balance in eviction proceedings in favor of tenants.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Wisconsin's rents are relatively low compared with the rest of the country's. As of May, the median rent for a two-bedroom apartment in the Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis metropolitan area was $1,545, which was the same as last year, according to a report released June 16 by Realtor.com.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Thousands of Wisconsin residents fear they could be evicted soon, according to a survey the U.S. Census Bureau released June 16. A little more than 16,300 Wisconsin adult residents surveyed said they felt it was very likely they would be evicted within the next two months. Another 23,000 said they felt it was somewhat likely they would be evicted. Only about 7,000 of those respondents said they were employed. The survey did not break down responses by specific metropolitan areas in Wisconsin.

Brennan said it's difficult to project how many people might lose their homes. The DOA set up a system this spring to monitor eviction filings in court, and the state will share that data with local housing advocates in the hopes that they can reach out to tenants and let them know about the government aid.
BEIJING (AP)  Rescuers were pumping out water Thursday to try to find 14 construction workers trapped by a flood in a highway tunnel being built in southern China.

The rescuers have not been able to contact the workers missing since the 3:30 a.m. flood, the Zhuhai city emergency management department said in an online post.

Rescue work is proceeding in an intense and orderly way," it said.

Workers were about 1.1 kilometers (0.7 miles) from the entrance to the tunnel when a strange noise was heard and material started falling from the top of the tunnel, Yan Dawu, the deputy general manager of the construction company, said at a news conference.

An evacuation was ordered, but water gushed in and 14 people were unable to get out, Yan said. We feel deeply guilty and deeply blame ourselves, he said.

The area where they were working is under a reservoir. By 12:30 p.m., rescue teams had plugged the hole where water was coming in. They were draining and pumping water from the reservoir as well as from the tunnel.

More than 1,000 workers, 22 fire trucks and five pumping vehicles were taking part in the effort, with search and rescue teams dispatched from surrounding cities in Guangdong province.

In March, two workers died in another part of the tunnel when a protective wall collapsed and they were hit by falling stones, according to a notice from the Zhuhai emergency management department.

Zhuhai is a coastal city near Macao at the mouth of the Pearl River delta. It was one of China's early special economic zones when the ruling Communist Party started opening up the nation's economy about 40 years ago.
CHELSEA, Vt. (AP)  A former Vermont State Police detective has pleaded guilty to domestic violence charges.

Nicholas Cianci, of Bradford, received an 18-month deferred sentence under an agreement in which he pleaded guilty Wednesday to one count of simple assault.

He acknowledged assaulting his former fiancee on more than one occasion in their home in Bradford, WCAX-TV reported.

The victim said Cianci told her no one would believe her. Cianci was placed on leave during the investigation and later resigned from the police force.

Under the plea deal, Cianci will be on probation and will not be allowed to have contact with the victim or her child. Prosecutors will take him to court if he violates the terms.
ATHENS, Greece (AP)  Greece is committed to protecting its borders, including by intercepting people at sea if they are attempting to enter the country illegally, the country's prime minister said Thursday after a meeting with his Lithuanian counterpart, whose country has faced an increased influx of migrants recently.

Kyriakos Mitsotakis made the comments after talks in Athens with Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte, whose country has seen scores of people from the Middle East and Africa crossing from the border with Belarus in recent weeks.

Both leaders said the recent influx into Lithuania was orchestrated by Belaruss government as a form of pressure against the European Union, of which both Greece and Lithuania are members. Mitsotakis likened the situation to that faced by Greece last year, when Turkey announced its borders to Europe were open, sending thousands of migrants to the Greek border.

Mitsotakis described Belaruss actions as simply unacceptable. He said both Greece and Lithuania have faced situations that are characterized by persistent migratory flows, coupled occasionally by an orchestrated effort by a third country to exert political pressure on the European Union through migration as a tool for the projection of geopolitical power.

Belaruss authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko has cracked down on opposition protests since his re-election in a vote the West denounced as rigged. He halted cooperation with the EU on stemming illegal migration after the EU imposed sanctions.

Simonyte stressed that Lithuania is not a corridor, is not a track towards the European Union, towards Sweden, Germany or other countries. She said there were procedures in place for people to seek asylum, but that Belarus was not an unsafe country for people other than those opposing the government there. Many of the asylum applications by the new arrivals will likely be rejected, she said.

Greece has been one of the main points of entry into the European Union for people fleeing poverty or conflict in the Middle East, Africa and Asia. In 2015, around a million people entered the EU, the vast majority making their way from the Turkish coast to nearby Greek islands and then heading to wealthier central and northern European countries.

The country has since cracked down on migration, and says it robustly patrols its borders, noting they are also the EUs external borders. But Greek authorities have also repeatedly been accused of carrying out illegal summary deportations of recently arrived migrants without allowing them to apply for asylum.

Government officials have repeatedly rejected the accusations, frequently labeling them as fake news. Mitsotakis said Greece protects its borders while also respecting human rights.

We will continue to do so both in respect to our sovereign responsibilities, but also in line with EU regulations. And this of course includes intercepting attempted illegal crossings at sea, he said.

I need to point out that attempting such sea crossings is highly dangerous to those undertaking this journey, and those who are being encouraged to do so and are being facilitated and exploited by unscrupulous criminal gangs need to know that they will be held accountable for their actions, Mitsotakis said.

Neither Greece in the south, nor Lithuania in the north wish to be the gateway to Europe for people-smuggling networks or third-party states intent on putting pressure on the European Union," he said.
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  Haiti on Wednesday received its first coronavirus vaccine since the pandemic began, welcoming 500,000 doses as the country battles a spike in cases and deaths.

The Pan American Health Organization said the United States donated the doses via the United Nations COVAX program for low-income countries.

Spokeswoman Nadia Peimbert-Rappaport told The Associated Press that the shipment was Moderna vaccine.

The arrival of these vaccines is quite promising and now the challenge is to get them to the people that need them the most, the regional health agency's director, Dr. Carissa Etienne, said in a statement.

The doses will be administered for free, said Dr. Marie Greta Roy Clement, Haitis minister of public health and population.

This first allocation of vaccines puts an end to a long period of waiting, an end to a long period of waiting not only for the Haitian population but also for the people of the region who were very concerned that Haiti was the only country in the Americas that had not yet introduced the COVID 19 vaccine, she said in a statement.

Haiti has reported more than 19,300 confirmed coronavirus cases and more than 480 deaths as it fights a wave of COVID-19 cases that has forced hospitals to turn away patients. Experts believe those numbers are widely underreported since there is scant testing in Haiti, which has more than 11 million people.

Some 756,000 doses of AstraZeneca shots had been slated to arrive in May via the COVAX program but were delayed given the governments concern over possible clotting as a side effect and a lack of infrastructure to keep the vaccines properly refrigerated.

The Pan American Health Organization has said it would help Haitis Health Ministry solve those problems and would prioritize vaccinating health workers.

It was not immediately known when inoculations would begin and where.

Experts have previously warned of potential problems that could complicate vaccination efforts, including a surge in gang violence that has people afraid to leave their homes or travel to certain areas because they fear for their lives.

Haiti also is now reeling from the July 7 assassination of President Jovenel Moise.

Moise had declared a health emergency on May 24 and imposed a curfew and safety measures, including mandating the use of face masks when entering businesses. But few Haitians are following the measures while buying groceries in bustling marketplaces or riding in crowded colorful buses known as tap taps.

Last month, the nonprofit St. Luke Foundation for Haiti said the country's insecurity was interfering with oxygen being imported as a liquid, then being converted to gas and delivered.

It is hard and dangerous work to refill 320 tanks per day, in the red zones of Port au Prince, it said.
The Smithsonian Institution announced Wednesday that Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon and spaceflight company Blue Origin, is donating $200 million to the National Air and Space Museum - the largest donation to the Smithsonian since the founding gift from James Smithson in 1846. (Bezos owns The Washington Post.)

Of the total, $70 million will support the museum's ongoing renovation and $130 million will establish an education center called the Bezos Learning Center.

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The announcement of the donation comes less than a week before Bezos, who stepped down from Amazon on July 5, will travel into space aboard the New Shepherd Rocket on Blue Origin's first passenger flight. Meanwhile, the Air and Space Museum, one of the most popular Smithsonians, is preparing to reopen July 30 for the first time since the pandemic shutdowns began in March 2020. It also comes during ongoing debate over the role of wealthy philanthropists in museum funding and whose names are honored on the walls of many public institutions. (The Freer/Sackler gallery, named partially after collector Arthur M. Sackler, rebranded as the National Museum of Asian Art in 2019.)

Other large gifts to the Smithsonian include $65 million from Stephen F. Udvar Hazy in 1999 for the Udvar Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va., as well as $45 million in 2001 from the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation for the building that houses the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery.

"Almost 175 years ago, Mr. Smithson's inaugural gift laid the groundwork for this innovative approach, bringing together private philanthropy and public funding," Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III said in a statement Wednesday.

"Today, as we emerge from a pivotal moment in history, Jeff's donation builds on that original tradition and will help us reimagine and transform the Smithsonian. This historic gift will help the Smithsonian achieve its goal of reaching every classroom in America by creating a world-class learning center with access and inspiration at its heart."

Bezos's gift coincides with a wider public interest in space travel. Blue Origin is one among a handful of companies, including Virgin Galactic and Elon Musk's SpaceX, planning to launch commercial spaceflights. A seat on Blue Origin's July 20 passenger flight was auctioned off for $28 million.

The Air and Space Museum, which is housed in a 45-year-old building on the National Mall, has been under extensive renovations since 2018, and when it reopens to the public at the end of the month, about 60 percent of its exhibition space will still be closed. The renovations are projected to cost $1 billion. Counting the $70 million from Bezos's gift, the museum is now $15 million shy of its $250 million private funding goal.

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With the renovations, the Smithsonian hopes to create new interactive experiences and enhance technological interconnectivity across the museum and with the public at home. Chris Browne, the museum's acting director, sees the institution's mission as both forward-looking and historical.

"We believe the museum, in addition to celebrating incredible feats of the past, should also have a rich collection and presentation of what's happening right now," he said in an interview. An Innovations Gallery, which the museum hopes to open in 2024, will have rotating exhibits on a 24-month timetable covering contemporary topics such as climate change.

The Bezos Learning Center will offer STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) programming and activities that engage the museum's collection and encourage young people to pursue innovation and explore related careers.

"The ability to scale the educational richness of what the Smithsonian has to offer is what really excites me," Browne says. "We see the museum as inspiring tomorrow's innovators and explorers - whether space bound or Earth bound."
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP)  A jury on Thursday found the gunman who killed five people at a Maryland newspaper criminally responsible for his actions, rejecting defense attorneys mental illness arguments.

The verdict means Jarrod Ramos will be sentenced to prison, not a maximum-security mental health facility, for one of the deadliest attacks on journalists in the U.S. Prosecutors are seeking five life sentences without the possibility of parole.

The jury needed less than two hours to find that Ramos, 41, could understand the criminality of his actions and conform his conduct to the requirements of the law when he attacked the Capital Gazette newsroom in 2018.

Survivors and family members of victims, some with tears in their eyes, embraced outside the courtroom and applauded prosecutors and jurors as they walked by after the verdict.

Its been a never-ending nightmare," said Cindi Rittenour, the sister of Rebecca Smith, who died in the attack. "And then hearing that today  just all my anxiety over it, all the wonderings, the unknowns, its all gone away now, and all I feel is just relief and happiness. I feel like my sister can finally start to rest in peace.

Danielle Ohl was a reporter at the Capital Gazette when Ramos attacked and came to Annapolis to be with her former colleagues for the verdict.

Its the culmination of three excruciating years, waiting for a result in the trial and waiting to find out if the man who kind of ruined our families and newsroom would go somewhere with the potential to be released, Ohl said.

Paul Gillespie, a photojournalist at the newspaper, said he suffers from PTSD, anxiety and depression since the attack. In court, he described feeling the breeze of shotgun pellets whiz by him as he ran out of the newsroom to safety.

With this being over now, Im hoping things get a little better, but I dont know what the future holds, Gillespie said.

Hes evil; hes not crazy. He deserves to be in prison, and I hope he gets all five life terms, he said of Ramos.

Judge Michael Wachs did not set a date for sentencing, but estimated it would take place in about two months.

Ramos already had pleaded guilty to all 23 counts against him in 2019 but pleaded not criminally responsible  Marylands version of an insanity plea. The second phase of his trial, which lasted 12 days, was largely a battle between mental health experts called by defense attorneys and prosecutors.

Ramos developed a long-running grudge against the newspaper after an article it published about his guilty plea to a misdemeanor charge of harassing a former high school classmate in 2011. He filed a lawsuit against the paper in 2012, alleging he was defamed, but it was dismissed as groundless. His appeals failed.

Defense attorneys argued that Ramos suffered from a delusional disorder as well as autism and obsessive-compulsive disorder. They contended Ramos became consumed with the idea that the article had ruined his life. As his defamation appeals failed, his lawyers said he came to believe there was a vast conspiracy against him involving the courts and the newspaper.

Prosecutors, however, repeatedly pointed to shortcomings in the mental health evaluations done by the defense, which relied mostly on interviews with Ramos and his sister.

Prosecutors said Ramos acted out of revenge for the article. They said his long, meticulous planning for the attack and the manner in which he carried it out  including plans for arrest and long incarceration  proved he understood the criminality of his actions.

They emphasized how Ramos called 911 from the newsroom after the shooting, identified himself as the gunman and said he surrendered  evidence he clearly understood the criminality of his actions. He was arrested while facedown under a desk.

Anne Colt Leitess, the Anne Arundel County states attorney, said that although Ramos has personality disorders like narcissism, he does not have serious mental illness that would have qualified him to be found not criminally responsible for five murders.

Leitess told the jury that Ramos thought he was smarter than everyone else, and his repeated losses in court were too much for him to bear, and so he started plotting his revenge. Leitess also said Ramos was concerned the article about him harassing his former classmate would hinder his ability to get dates.

After the verdict, Leitess expressed satisfaction with the outcome.

This means everything to the community. Im just so happy that I was able to bring justice for the family members and the survivors, and that Mr. Ramos will be held criminally responsible for his crimes, she said.

The trial began last month, three years and a day after the attack that killed Wendi Winters, John McNamara, Gerald Fischman, Rob Hiaasen and Smith at the newspapers office in a building complex in Marylands capital city on June 28, 2018.

Under Marylands insanity defense law, a defendant has the burden to show by a preponderance of the evidence that he is not criminally responsible for his actions. That means defense attorneys had to show that its more likely than not that Ramos isnt criminally responsible.

___

Associated Press writer David McFadden contributed to this report.
KENAI, Alaska (AP)  The new Kenai Public Schools superintendent told a crowd at his first school board meeting that critical race theory is not part of the districts curriculum but said the district will continue teaching students history.

Teaching the facts of history, current events and critical thinking is what we do and will continue to do, Clayton Holland said. Our teachers are going to teach history. I want to be real clear on that. Were teaching history. Theyre going to teach facts to our students.

Critical race theory is a framework legal scholars developed in the 1970s and '80s that centers on the idea that racism is systemic in the nations institutions. District officials have said critical race theory is not part of the curriculum but the issue remained a recurring theme at the Monday meeting, the Peninsula Clarion reported.

Some community members said if the theory is taught, the district would be moving backward.

They are indoctrinating our kids with lies, said Susan Lockwood. If they dont like the United States of America, they should just leave and go to China, Russia or Iran or some other communist country.

Dave Peck of Kenai requested the board consider adopting a formal commitment saying members would not endorse the theory or allow it to become part of the curriculum.

Kenai Peninsula Education Association President Nathan Erfurth said district students are taught what happened and who was involved and encouraged to reach their own conclusions.

Through inquiry, research, projects and activities that parents are encouraged to assist their students with, they are guided to expand their perspectives and build their critical thinking skills so that they are able to draw their own conclusions about what has happened in our past and what it means for our present, Erfurth said. He used to teach government and history at Soldotna High School and helped craft the districts social studies curriculum.

Board of Education President Zen Kelly said critical race theory gets a lot of time on social media, gets a lot of time in certain news circles and it gets a lot of people very, very worked up. But Kelly said it really isnt a problem in our school district.
CHICAGO (AP)  A lawyer for an Iowa man arrested in Chicago for having guns and ammunition in his hotel room said Wednesday his client was in the city to propose to his girlfriend, not to launch a mass attack.

Jonathan Brayman said the baseless accusation against Keegan Casteel by Mayor Lori Lightfoot and police Superintendent David Brown spurred sensational media coverage despite the lack of evidence Casteel had ill intent.

Authorities say a member of the cleaning staff at the W Hotel told police they observed a loaded semi-automatic rifle with a laser scope, five ammunition clips and a loaded .45-caliber handgun in the room held by Casteel, 32, of Ankeny, Iowa on July 4. The weapons were found on a 12th floor window sill. The window had a view of Ohio Street Beach and Navy Pier, a major tourist attraction.

Brayman said his client is licensed to have the guns, and was merely exercising his Second Amendment rights. They suggested the weapons made Casteel feel safer in a crime-ridden city.

The fact that good people feel the need to arm themselves when traveling to Chicago is the real problem that our public officials need to address, he said. In Mr. Casteels case, there was nothing nefarious afoot.

Both Lightfoot and Brown have said Casteel may have intended to fire on Navy Pier crowds from his hotel window, though prosecutors have yet to offer any proof of such plans.

Casteel has so far been charged with two felony counts of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, though prosecutors said Wednesday a grand jury will review the case.

Casteel has been released on $10,000 bond after a judge reminded him that gun laws in Chicago are different than in Iowa.
BOISE, Idaho (AP)  State lawmakers and Republican Gov. Brad Little are failing Idaho residents by not preventing employers from requiring workers to get the COVID-19 vaccine, GOP Lt. Gov. Janice McGeachin said Thursday.

McGeachin, who is running for governor, held a news conference at the Statehouse to repeat her request to reconvene the Legislature to pass the ban. She also faulted the executive branch without naming Little.

This idea of discriminating against and firing employees based on private and personal health decisions flies in the face of the principles of liberty and justice, McGeachin said.

Primary Health Group, Saint Alphonsus Health System and St. Lukes Health System announced the vaccine requirement last week ahead of the busy cold and flu season and as coronavirus variants spread in parts of the U.S. Health officials in Idaho said the vaccine requirements are intended to keep health care facilities open and employees and patients safe.

Today, I call on Idahos hospitals and health care companies to drop their vaccine mandate so that we may have a chance to sit down together, discuss these issues associated with the mandate and the infringement on personal health care decisions in greater detail, McGeachin said.

She is on the far right of the state Republican Party, but as lieutenant governor, has little power to act. She presides over the Senate when it's in session and can cast a vote to break a tie.

McGeachin opposed many of Little's pandemic restrictions, which were designed to prevent health care facilities from being overrun with patients. She also has been vocal in her opposition to mask mandates, which Little has never issued statewide.

In April, he issued an executive order banning the state from requiring or issuing vaccine passports for travel or to get into venues. He also is preventing state agencies from providing information on someones vaccine status to other people, companies or government entities.

Last week, McGeachin made her initial call for lawmakers to reconvene to take up vaccine mandate measures that failed earlier this year or create new legislation.

She says now that some employers have taken action to require vaccines, lawmakers are more likely to pass legislation. Two Republican state senators and four representatives said this week that they would support legislation involving vaccine mandates, but not all of them favored reconvening the Legislature.

Republican Senate Pro Tempore Chuck Winder and Republican House Speaker Scott Bedke, who would be considered very conservative in most states but come under attack from the far right in Idaho, have been noncommittal about reconvening the Legislature amid concerns that the government should generally not interfere with the work requirements of private businesses.

Typically, only governors can call special sessions. But the House never fully adjourned this year under a plan to allow Bedke to simply call lawmakers back to the Statehouse without needing Littles OK.

There is some disagreement among legal experts over whether the Legislature is still in session because the Senate officially adjourned, while the House only recessed. But lawmakers are proceeding on the belief that the Legislature is only recessed.

McGeachin was backed at the news conference by about 20 people, some identified as health care workers. Several of them spoke in favor of lawmakers or Little intervening in the matter.

About 75 supporters also filled the room, sometimes jeering reporters as they asked questions, even interrupting McGeachin when she tried to respond.

They cheered when McGeachin said she would be acting governor later Thursday, meaning she could issue an executive order potentially stopping mandatory vaccines by employers.

But Little's spokeswoman, Marissa Morrison, said he was only out of the state for about 15 minutes in the morning after landing in eastern Washington on his way to northern Idaho. She said he planned to fly out of Coeur d'Alene when he returned to Boise and would not be out of the state again on the trip.

As acting governor in May, McGeachin issued an executive order banning mask mandates, which Little nullified the next day when he returned to the state, calling McGeachin's action a "self-serving political stunt.

After the news conference Thursday, McGeachin held a rally on the Statehouse steps that drew about 500 people.
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP)  Only about 10% of the nursing homes in Kansas regulated by the federal government have met the industry's goal for vaccinating their workers against COVID-19, according to government data.

The industry's aim is to have 75% of the homes' staff vaccinated. But the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services says that as of late June, 34 of the 324 federally licensed homes in Kansas had met that goal, The Topeka Capital-Journal reports.
MEXICO CITY (AP)  The Mexican government officially abandoned the policy of maintaining a fishing-free zone around the last 10 or so remaining vaquita marina.

The measure announced Wednesday replaces the fishing-free zero tolerance zone in the upper Gulf of California with a sliding scale of punishments if more than 60 boats are seen in the area on multiple occasions.

Given that Mexico has been unable to enforce the current restrictions  which bans boats in the small area  the sliding-scale punishments also seem doomed to irrelevance.

Environmental experts say the move essentially abandons the worlds most endangered marine mammal to the gill nets that trap and drown them. The nets are set for totoaba, a fish whose swim bladder is a delicacy in China, and sells for thousands of dollars per pound (kilogram).

Alex Olivera, the Mexico representative for the Center for Biological Diversity, said the rules establish a sliding scale of responses to a situation that shouldn't be allowed to occur in the first place. For example, the Agriculture and Fisheries Department says it will use 60% of its enforcement personnel if 20 fishing boats or less are seen in the restricted area.

This is stupid. They are waiting to count boats in an area designated as 'zero tolerance,' where there shouldn't be a single boat," Olivera said. They are letting in dozens of boats.

This is the end of the concept of zero tolerance, Olivera said. There is just going to be dissuasion.

One conservation expert who is familiar with the case, but who cannot be quoted by name for fear of repercussions, said the new rules imply not protecting the vaquita.

It appears that fisheries authorities want to drive the vaquita to extinction, the expert said.

Two ships from the conservationist group Sea Shepherd have worked with Mexican marines to try to grab banned fishing nets from the area, but they are frequently outnumbered and attacked by fishermen, who have no fear at all of the marines.

In January, two fishermen rammed their small boat into a larger vessel used by Sea Shepherd to haul out nets. Sea Shepherd said its vessel, the Farley Mowat, was pulling illegal gill nets out of the waters of the gulf, also known as the Sea of Cortez, when people on a group of about a half dozen small, open fishing boats began tossing gasoline bombs at the vessel, setting the bow and another part of the ship afire.

The nets confiscated by Sea Shepherd vessels are expensive, so fishermen often harass the conservationists boats to try to get them back. The fishermen claim they have not received compensation from the Mexican government for lost fishing income. Groups representing fishermen were not immediately available to comment.

The upper Gulf of California is the only place the vaquita lives.

Mexicos Environment Department had previously said the drop in the number of vaquitas and the area where they have been seen in recent years justified reducing the protection zone, which in theory once covered most of the upper Gulf.

Formally known as the vaquita reserve, that zone starts around the Colorado river delta and extends south past the fishing town of San Felipe and near Puerto Penasco.

But as vaquita numbers dwindled to a few dozen, and then to less than a dozen, scientists and environmentalists decided to make a last-ditch stand in the zero tolerance zone, a far smaller area where the last vaquita were seen.

Their numbers are confirmed by subaquatic listening devices that graph the squeaks and squeals the animals make, even as visual sighting become rare.
HELENA, Mont. (AP)  Montana faces a shortage in firefighting resources amid a historic drought that could lead to a record-breaking wildfire season, officials said Thursday.

If you are going to ask me which resources we are short on, I will say everything, Sonya Germann, state forester with the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, told a state water policy committee Thursday.

Montana is at the highest level of firefighting preparedness, meaning it is first in line for access to national resources. But it is competing with neighboring states in the U.S. West also gripped by a drought that contributes to fire risk. Climate change has made the region much warmer and drier in the past 30 years and causes bigger and more destructive wildfires.

Nationally, we do not have enough resources to fight the fire that is on the landscape throughout the country, Germann said.

Gov. Greg Gianforte on Wednesday declared a wildfire emergency, allowing him to deploy the National Guard to assist in firefighting efforts. He also has declared a drought emergency.

As of Thursday, more than 1,400 wildland fires have burned over 220 square miles (570 square kilometers) in Montana. Of those, 80% have been caused by people, Germann said.

The state entered the fire season with a full firefighting fund of about $100 million. The average cost of a fire season in Montana is $22 million. Last fiscal year, the state spent $20 million on fire suppression.

Since the beginning of the month, $3 million has been spent on fire suppression, Germann said.

Good news is we have a flush fire suppression account; bad news is we are going to need a lot of that, said Germann, who predicts the fire season will be historic.

Were facing August-like conditions right now in early July, and were not expecting those conditions to improve, she said.

Parched conditions in Montana were compounded by a dry fall in 2020 and record-breaking heat in June, said Michael Downey, water planning section supervisor for the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.

Hot temperatures in June led to a quick loss of snowpack in mountain ranges. And unusually dry conditions were expected to remain for months to come.

I think its probably likely, given the depth of the drought this year, that well be moving into next year still in a drought status. It takes a while for things to bounce back, Downey said.

In response to a request from Gianforte, the U.S. Department of Agriculture on Thursday authorized the use of some Conservation Reserve Program acres for emergency harvesting for hay and grazing to ease concerns of farmers and ranchers over the drought.

___

Samuels is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
DENVER (AP)  A Colorado Springs police officer who was disciplined for saying Kill them all during a livestream of a racial injustice protest in June 2020 is one of two officers accused in a federal lawsuit of using excessive force on a woman during a protest earlier that month.

In the lawsuit filed Wednesday against the officers and city, Celia Palmer said Sgt. Keith Wrede ambushed her and a friend from behind during the June 2, 2020, protest after police ordered protesters to disperse from near police department headquarters.

After leaving the demonstration, Palmer and her friend stopped to watch an officer harass a young Black man and were hit by pepper spray, leading them to walk away quickly, the lawsuit said. Wrede then tackled them without warning and slammed Palmer to the ground, causing her head to bounce off the pavement, according to the lawsuit.

Palmer said in the lawsuit that another officer jumped on her, grabbed her hair, jerked her head around and slammed it to the ground. The lawsuit said the officers actions caused Palmer to suffer a traumatic brain injury.

Lt. James Sokolik said Thursday that the police department could not comment on lawsuits. The city attorneys office referred questions to the citys communications office, which said it could not comment on lawsuits.

An internal police investigation last year found Wrede, using a pseudonym, made comments including Kill them all during a livestream video of a June 30, 2020, protest in which demonstrators blocked traffic on Interstate 25. He was suspended for 40 hours and reassigned as a result.

Chief Vince Niski condemned Wredes comments at the time but pushed back against calls to fire him. The investigation found Wrede made the comments while he was off-duty. Niski said there was no indication he intended to cause actual harm.

While his statements were harmful and reprehensible, I cannot deprive the community of a good police officer and his services because of an isolated incident of an error in judgment, Niski said.

The lawsuit filed Wednesday contends Wredes comments online show his motivation in hurting Palmer.

It is clear that Defendant Wrede was trying to injure Ms. Palmer simply because she supported the Black Lives Matter movement," the lawsuit said.

It added: Defendant Colorado Springs has no qualms continuing to employ police officers who have  and openly express  homicidal thoughts about Black Lives Matter supporters.
A project aimed at increasing medical access for Orange County residents took a step forward this week with the approval of additional funding for site road development and an incentive plan for the first phase.

The Orange Economic Development Corporation and City Council approved $340,669 in additional funding to create the first phase of Eagle Point Boulevard and Medical Center Drive, which will serve a complex of medical offices planned for the site.

More than $1.4 million already had been approved for the project, but there was a budget shortfall to cover all estimated costs.

Orange City Manager Mike Kunst said the project ultimately had to be split into phases due to a rise in material costs after the pandemic and demand in the construction industry.

Project specs for the parkways construction were put out for bid in March, but estimates came back at least $1.7 million over budget.

There obviously wasnt that kind of money available at one time. So, it had to be phased, Kunst said. There isnt something like a public roadway there, but there is a way to access the site so the developer can do prep work.

The first phase of the project was advertised for bids in June and had an estimated value of around $1 million, according to an online listing.

On Tuesday, the EDC and city also approved a new incentive agreement with NXO JV LLC, a new company registered in Delaware in April of this year.

According to documents submitted by its lawyers, the company would invest $15 million during the first phase of the project to create a 40,000 square-feet facility.

The incentive agreement would require the company to receive a certificate of occupancy for the facility by the end of March in 2023.

The Orange EDC originally had an agreement with Dr. Marty Rutledges Orange Multi-Specialty Real Estate Holdings that set a timeline for completion sometime in 2021.

However, Kunst said a merger of investors and partners with Rutledges original initiative meant a new agreement had to be drafted for the joint venture company that was created.

In June, the EDC had the first reading for the additional funding and accepted an almost 5-acre donation of land from Gisela Houseman and Houseman Companies to help with the road project.

Thats in addition to a 20-acre land donation given to the Orange County Economic Development Corporation in 2019.

When the county lost its only hospital seven years ago, Houseman said the most important use of the land became glaringly apparent.

Our community needs a hospital to grow and prosper, Houseman told the Enterprise in 2019. We have a lot of urgent care centers that have popped up, but you have to have a hospital or something for the ambulance to take you in an emergency.

Orange County lost its only hospital in 2015 when Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas discontinued in-patient services and later shut down its emergency room. It ended emergency services two years later, leaving only two private emergency rooms at the time.

The hospitals CEO, David Parmer, cited decreasing insurer reimbursements, declining local demand and increasing underinsured/uninsured populations as the main reason for the decision.

The uninsured rate for people under 65 in Orange County was 15% and even higher for just the city of Orange at 19%, according to the 2017 Small Area Health Insurance Estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau.

At least 13% of Orange County is considered under the federal poverty line and 22% of people in Orange are in poverty, according to census estimates.

jacob.dick@beaumontenterprise.com

twitter.com/jd_journalism
RAMALLAH, West Bank (AP)  Nearly two weeks after he was severely beaten by Palestinian security forces, Akil Awawdeh is still short of breath, still shielding his bruised chest with his hand and still haunted by the screams inside the police station.

Never in my life have I seen such brutality, said Awawdeh, a local radio reporter who has been covering Mideast unrest for more than a decade. "The sound of people screaming inside the police station, to this day I still hear it. It echoes in my head ... I cant forget.

He was among several people who were beaten and detained at a police station on July 5, in one of the most violent incidents in weeks of protests against the Palestinian Authority, which administers parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

The demonstrations were sparked by the death of Nizar Banat, an outspoken critic of the PA who died shortly after being violently arrested by Palestinian security forces last month. The PA is widely seen as corrupt and increasingly authoritarian, and it has faced mounting dissent since calling off the first elections in 15 years in April.

Palestinian security forces, including what appeared to be plainclothes officers, violently dispersed the protesters, drawing expressions of concern from the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights and the State Department.

Despite the crackdown, the U.S. and European countries still view the PA as a crucial partner in managing the conflict, especially after the Gaza war in May. Western countries have trained and equipped PA security forces, who work with Israel to suppress Hamas and other armed groups  a policy that is extremely unpopular among Palestinians.

The security forces arrested at least six activists when they gathered in central Ramallah, where the PA is headquartered, on the evening of July 5. Family members, fearful that the detainees would meet the same fate as Banat, went to the police station to check on them.

Ubai Aboudi, a Palestinian-American civil society activist who was among those arrested, said his wife came with their three children, his 77-year-old father, who is a retired professor, and his brother. He said he and the original detainees were not physically abused, but that security officers turned their family members away.

It wasnt actually a political demonstration, the families were simply requesting to see us, he said. His wife chanted State of freedom, no political arrests!"

Awawdeh said he and a colleague arrived at the sit-in and began filming. When a security officer told them to stop filming they identified themselves as journalists but complied with the request, he said. Then riot police gathered in front of the station and an officer ordered everyone to leave within 10 minutes.

About three minutes later, the attack began.

Multiple witnesses said the police attacked everyone on the street  activists, journalists and observers  firing pepper spray, beating them with batons and pulling women by their hair.

Diala Ayesh, a human rights lawyer who was there as an observer, said she was handcuffed and dragged into the police station, and that some of the policemen harassed her and struck her on sensitive places on her body. She was among at least 15 people who were detained.

Once inside, Awawdeh and another man were dragged into a small room and severely beaten with batons. I just kept telling them I'm a journalist, Awawdeh said. I told them from the moment I arrived that I was a journalist.

He was left on the floor of the cell until a physician who was among those detained alerted the police, telling them his pulse was weak. He and the other man were hospitalized, and Awawdeh was treated for severe bruising on his chest. All the detainees were released over the next 24 hours.

More than a week later, Awawdeh was visibly shaken and seemed to struggle for air while recounting his experience to The Associated Press. He paused several times and held his hand to his chest throughout the interview.

Aboudi says his wife and children, a seven-year-old and five-year-old twins, were left on the street when their mother, grandfather and uncle were detained. He said they are deeply traumatized."

Palestinian officials have not commented publicly on the events of July 5. A police spokesman referred questions to a government spokesman, who did not respond to requests for comment.

Aboudi says Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh called his father, who had once been his professor at Birzeit University, to apologize. His apology is not accepted, because he promised accountability and we did not see any accountability, Aboudi said.

Saleh Hijazi, the deputy regional director of Amnesty International, said the Palestinian Authority has attacked peaceful protesters in the past, going back at least to 2011. Israel also heavily restricts political activity in the occupied territories, and its security forces often clash with Palestinian protesters and detain prominent activists.

Palestinians are getting it from both sides," Hijazi said. "The message from both authorities, Israel being the one with ultimate power, is that there is no freedom of expression or assembly for Palestinians.

If the PA's crackdown is aimed at halting the protests, it hasn't worked.

Demonstrators gathered in Ramallah again last Sunday, days after the attack on the sit-in. Awawdeh was back at his radio station this week and says he will continue to work as a reporter. Aboudi has been summoned to appear in court in September and could be taken into custody again, but he too says he is determined to continue his work.

"People are still shouting that we demand our freedom," he said. "We want basic human rights, we want freedom, we want emancipation. We dont care who has violated our rights, but these kinds of violations we will not tolerate.
Rebecca Slezak/AP

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP)  Two people killed in a house fire in northwest Kansas City were children under the age of 11, police confirmed Thursday in a news release.

Two others injured in the Wednesday fire remained in critical condition and a third injured person suffered injuries not believed to be life-threatening, police said.
WALTERBORO, S.C. (AP)  State police told a judge that they don't want to release more information about the slayings of two members of a prominent South Carolina legal family and, after more than a month of investigation, said they still dont know what evidence might be important to solve the case.

The State Law Enforcement Division was in court Wednesday with The Post and Courier. The Charleston newspaper sued the agency, saying it had violated the state public records act by first refusing to release police reports on the killings, then heavily blacking out information in the reports that were released.

The agency is investigating the June 7 deaths of Maggie Murdaugh, 52, and her son Paul Murdaugh, 22.

Alex Murdaugh found his wife and son shot several times outside a home on the family's Colleton County land after checking on his seriously ill father, authorities said.

State agents have released little information on their investigation and a lawyer seemed to suggest the probe isn't focused on any particular person or theory on what could have happened. If the wrong information is released, it might affect the memories of witnesses or prevent agents from catching people they question in lies.

At this stage of any investigation such as this, it is exceedingly difficult to know precisely what evidence, witnesses, and information are of ultimate importance, and what evidence, witnesses, or information proves to be of little value, the State Law Enforcement Division and the Colleton County Sheriffs Office wrote in court papers.

Colleton County deputies turned the investigation over to state police almost immediately.

The Post and Courier's lawyer argued the state agency was heavy-handed with how it blacked out information in the reports. He said the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act requires the agency to say exactly how any information not released would affect the investigation instead of allowing officials to just say it might cause a problem.

State police released 18 pages of reports last month. All but one page had redactions and some pages were entirely blacked out.

The information that wasn't redacted included details about a deputy asking to get a tent to put over evidence while crime scene technicians worked, another deputy who outlined where he put crime scene tape and other officers asking nearby homes and businesses if they have surveillance cameras pointing toward the road.

Theyre not thinking about the Freedom of Information Act, newspaper attorney Edward Fenno said. Theyre just redacting as they see fit.

At the end of the hearing, Circuit Judge Bentley Price said he would review the redactions and if he felt they weren't legal, order more information released.

The Murdaugh family is offering a $100,000 reward to anyone who provides information that leads to the killer's conviction and the State Law Enforcement Division continues to promote a 24-hour-a-day tip line for the case at (803) 896-2605.

Alex Murdaugh's father, grandfather and great-grandfather were all longtime elected prosecutors and, along with other family members, have had successful private law practices in nearby Hampton County and the surrounding area.

At the time of his death, Paul Murdaugh was awaiting trial on a charge of boating under the influence causing death in a February 2019 crash that killed 19-year-old Mallory Beach. Whether local law enforcement agencies tried to obstruct the investigation into the boating death is also being reviewed by state officials.
COTTONWOOD HEIGHTS, Utah (AP)  Police in Utah are searching for a man accused of harassing an Asian business owner in an incident that is being investigated as a possible hate crime, officials said.

A man went into an alteration business in Cottonwood Heights, Utah on Wednesday and asked for a repair on his shirt, according to police.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  Los Angeles police fatally shot a man Thursday who was carrying what turned out to be a replica handgun on Hollywoods Walk of Fame, authorities said.

A woman suffered a minor injury to her lower body, but the Los Angeles Police Department did not immediately know how she had been hurt. She was taken to the hospital.

Officers responded to Hollywood Boulevard around 11:20 a.m. following reports of a man walking around with a handgun along the Walk of Fame. At least one person reported seeing him pointing a gun at someone.

Officers arrived to find a man who matched the description and at least one officer fired their weapon.

The shooting occurred near the famed corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Avenue, and less than a block from the Dolby Theatre, where the Oscars are normally presented.

Police did not say what prompted the shooting or whether any de-escalation methods were attempted first. The fake handgun was recovered at the scene.

I'm just told that it appears to be exactly like a gun, said LAPD Detective Meghan Aguilar, a police spokesperson, during a media briefing at the scene.

It was not immediately clear how many officers opened fire, or how many times the man had been struck.

Exactly what the suspect did with that handgun that led the officers to fire at him will be determined by looking at videos and interviewing witnesses, Aguilar said.

The shooting caused bedlam on the busy street.

People started scrambling, and theres kids crying and moms trying to get out of there and tourists confused, and then of course everyones cellphones started popping out, witness Eddie Lopez told the Los Angeles Times. It was wild.

People started running around when the gunfire erupted, witness Carlos Monroy told KTLA. Monroy said he saw police trying to resuscitate the man.

The man, whose name has not been released, was pronounced dead at a hospital. It appears he was in his 40s or 50s. No officers were hurt.

Detectives are interviewing witnesses to the shooting, as well as people may have been assaulted by the man before police encountered him.

Aguilar said police will look at body-worn camera footage, as well as surveillance video, that may have captured the shooting.

The incident takes place just eight days after the state attorney general announced new protocols that will send a team of investigators from the California Department of Justice to probe when a police officer fatally shoots an unarmed civilian.

The move comes after state lawmakers passed legislation giving the attorney general new responsibilities in the wake of George Floyd's killing in Minneapolis.

The state attorney general's office said its investigators were sent to Los Angeles.
GLEN BURNIE, Md. (AP)  An abandoned newborn girl was found in a wooded area in Glen Burnie early Wednesday, Anne Arundel County police said.

Officers responded to Greenway Road after receiving a report that a newborn had been left there and she was taken to a hospital for care, police said.

The unclothed babys umbilical cord was still attached, county police spokesman Marc Limansky told The Capital Gazette. The infant was suffering from some injuries after being in contact with some bushes, but she is expected to survive, he said.

The mother of the child was identified and given medical treatment and access to crisis intervention, police said in a news release Thursday. The infant is healthy and doing well.
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP)  State police have released a report saying officers in a south Louisiana city police department were justified in last year's fatal shooting of a Black man whose death has prompted a federal lawsuit.

The 152-page report was written in December but released Wednesday  two months after a Lafayette Parish grand jury declined to indict any officers in the August shooting of Trayford Pellerin.

The report identifies the three Lafayette Police Department officers who fired at Pellerin and gives their accounts of what happened and those of other officers and witnesses, news agencies reported.

The report, which The Advertiser posted on its website, said police shot Pellerin when he tried to enter a convenience store after two ineffective attempts by law enforcement to use stun guns on him. He had threatened at least one officer with the pocket knife he was carrying and had ignored repeated demands to drop the knife, according to the report.

State Police Detective Georgiana Kibodeaux quoted all three officers who fired at Pellerin as saying they were afraid he would attack people in the store or other officers.

The officers are Sr. Cpl. Tyler S. Howerton, 34 and Officers Malik D. S. Savoy, 24, and Kevin M. McFarlain, 28.

Ofc. McFarlain stated he could not live with himself if Pellerin would have stabbed someone in the store, she wrote, according to The Advertiser.

Howerton, who fired three shots, had joined the force in 2009. McFarlain, a K-9 handler who joined in 2017, fired four times. Savoy in 2019, who joined in 2019, fired five shots.

After a careful and thorough review of the evidence collected, interviews conducted, and facts learned during the investigation, I did not find probable cause to substantiate criminal charges against Sr. Cpl. Howerton, Ofc. Savoy, and Ofc. McFarlain, Kibodeaux wrote.

State Police investigators interviewed nine Lafayette police officers and more than a half-dozen civilian witnesses, The Advocate reported. Lafayette police turned over 41 police body cameras and vehicle recorders, the report indicated.

Pellerin's family filed a federal lawsuit last year against Lafayette police, saying their son did not have a knife when he was killed.

The lawsuit said the only knife seen in body camera footage and photographs after the shooting that was shown to them was one used to cut Pellerins clothing to give him first aid after he was shot. The footage also failed to show officers attempt to use other methods to stop Pellerin before shooting him, according to the suit.

When the grand jury cleared the officers, attorney Ron Haley, who is representing the family, said he would ask for a federal civil rights investigation.

He did not immediately respond Thursday to an email seeking comment about the state police report.
LANSING, Mich. (AP)  Republican state senators on Thursday approved the repeal of the Michigan law that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer used to order emergency lockdowns at the beginning of the pandemic, when Michigan was among the states hardest hit by COVID-19.

The state Senate's 20-15 vote along partisan lines came two days after the Board of State Canvassers certified Unlock Michigan's petition drive to repeal the 1945 law Whitmer used to maintain a state of emergency and lockdown past 28 days without the Legislature's input. The petition received about 460,000 valid signatures, which was far more than the approximately 340,000 that were needed.

Because it resulted from a petition drive, Whitmer would not be allowed to veto the repeal if the Republican-led House also approves it, as it's expected to do. The repeal is a priority in the state House and a vote will be scheduled soon, House GOP Spokesman Gideon DAssandro told The Associated Press.

Throughout the pandemic, many Republican elected officials called Whitmer a dictator for her actions, including former President Donald Trump. In October, six people were charged in federal court over an alleged plot to kidnap her due to outrage over her pandemic policies.

The Michigan Supreme Court in October declared the law Whitmer cited unconstitutional. After that decision, Whitmer used the states health department to create rules for the pandemic.

The Republicans who control the Legislature could have let voters decide the issue on the 2022 ballot, but they decided to vote on it themselves.

Several Democrats spoke out against repealing the law, saying it would make it harder for future governors to respond to public health crises.

Democrat Sen. Mallory McMorrow said legislatures are deliberate and work slowly, and that the 1945 law allows for quick action in times of urgency.

If the House approves the measure, an emergency order would only be valid for 28 days before it would need the Legislature's approval to be extended.

Sen. Majority Leader Mike Shirkey said Whitmer should have been more hands-off instead of pushing oppressive orders through the state health department after the state Supreme Court shut her down. He said the petition shows what citizens can do when government gets out of control.

What was really needed and true leadership was somebody who simply would do this: Inform citizens, inspire them, encourage them and then trust them, Shirkey said.

___

Anna Liz Nichols is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
UNITED NATIONS (AP)  The U.N. special envoy for Libya accused spoilers on Thursday of trying to obstruct the holding of crucial elections in December to unify the divided North African nation, and the Security Council warned that any individual or group undermining the electoral process could face U.N. sanctions.

Jan Kubis told a ministerial meeting of the council that he spoke to many key players during his just-ended visit to Libya and all of them reiterated their commitment to presidential and parliamentary elections on Dec. 24, but I am afraid many of them are not ready to walk the talk.

He pointed to the failure of the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum, a 75-member body from all walks of life, to agree on a legal framework to hold elections earlier this month, putting a roadmap to end the decade-old conflict in the oil-rich nation in jeopardy. He also cited the failure of foreign forces and mercenaries to leave Libya within 90 days as required under last October's cease-fire, and the failure to reopen the coastal road linking the countrys east and west, another key cease-fire provision.

Libya has been wracked by chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi in 2011 and split the oil-rich country between a U.N.-supported government in the capital, Tripoli, and rival authorities based in the countrys east, each backed by armed groups and foreign governments.

In April 2019, east-based commander Khalifa Hifter and his forces, backed by Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, launched an offensive to try and capture Tripoli. His 14-month-long campaign collapsed after Turkey stepped up its military support of the U.N.-backed government with hundreds of troops and thousands of Syrian mercenaries. That led to the October cease-fire and roadmap to elections adopted in Tunis a month later which included a transitional government.

Kubis urged members of the Forum to put their difference aside and agree on a proposal for the constitutional basis of elections that the House of Representatives could immediately adopt.

Interest groups, spoilers and armed actors must not be allowed to derail the process aimed at restoring the legitimacy, unity and sovereignty of the Libyan state and its institutions, he stressed.

A presidential statement adopted by the Security Council echoed Kubis call for immediate action and legislation to allow the High National Election Commission to have adequate time and resources to prepare for elections.

Libyas transitional Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh reiterated the governments commitment to the historic Dec. 24 elections and said, At the forefront of the tasks ahead is to achieve the constitutional basis and the necessary electoral law as soon as possible.

The council stressed that individuals and entities can face financial freezes and travel bans if the Security Council committee monitoring implementation of U.N. sanctions determines that they are engaging in or supporting acts that threaten Libyas peace, stability or security, or undermine its political transition, and underlines that such acts could include obstructing or undermining those elections planned for" in the Forum roadmap.

The Security Council again strongly urged all countries, Libyan parties, and relevant actors to fully implement the cease-fire agreement, including through the withdrawal of all foreign forces and mercenaries from Libya without delay.

Kubis warned that the continued presence of foreign forces and mercenaries is threatening the cease-fire.

It is imperative that Libyan and international actors agree on a plan to commence and complete the withdrawal of mercenaries and foreign forces, he said. Initial signals to this end are encouraging, but concrete steps and agreements are needed.

Frances Foreign Minster Jean-Yves Le Drian, whose country holds the council presidency and chaired the meeting, said maintaining the Dec. 24 election date was imperative and called for a progressive timeframe for the departure of foreign elements.

France has proposed that Syrian mercenaries from two camps start the process by leaving as soon as in the next few weeks, he said.

Kubis said the Joint Military Commission, comprising five members from each party, is key to implementing the cease-fire and to political progress, and warned that its vital role could unravel if the political process remains stalled.

Every effort must therefore be made to preserve its unity and to insulate its work from the detrimental effects of the political stalemate and the standoff between Libyas main political actors, he said.

Kubis cited standoffs between the transitional government and House of Representatives, the government and Hifters eastern-based Libyan National Army, and those who want to respect the timeline for the Dec. 24 election and those who would see the elections delayed.

He said the ramifications of the political impasse are already beginning to manifest themselves.

The House of Representatives failed to adopt the budget submitted by the transitional government, Kubis said. Hifters Libyan National Army refused to allow the government to extend its authority to areas it controls, the government and Presidency Council failed to agree on minister of defense who is crucial for implementation of the cease-fire, and the Joint Military Commission postponed the reopening of the coastal road to protest the lack of action on elections and withdrawing mercenaries and foreign forces.

The Security Council meeting followed last months conference on Libya in Berlin where Germany and the United Nations brought together 17 countries and Libyas transitional leadership to promote implementation of the cease-fire and roadmap to elections. Its presidential statement welcomed the conference conclusions.

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas told the council that during the past year, Libya has come a long way towards peace and unity.

He urged the international community to take a strong stance against those who favor postponing the elections for selfish political motives and called on the council to reaffirm that it will not tolerate any obstruction -- and that it will stay the course and make the progress in Libya irreversible.
ISLAMABAD (AP)  A Taliban surge has put the insurgent force in control of key border posts, opened up fresh sources of revenue and rattled many of Afghanistans neighbors.

In the Uzbek capital of Tashkent, a two-day regional meeting that begins Thursday was originally supposed to deal with connectivity in South and Central Asia, encouraging trade ties and transport issues. But it has morphed into a high-level gathering of senior U.S., Russian and EU officials that most certainly will be consumed with Afghanistan and the impact of the rapidly advancing Taliban.

In recent weeks, the Taliban have gained control of key border posts with neighbors Iran, Pakistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

In many instances, Afghanistans security forces and military have put up little to no resistance, after often being left without resupplies or reinforcements. Two weeks ago, more than 1,000 Afghan military men fled across the border into Tajikistan. The Taliban did not pursue them.

The Taliban have also issued statements, including from their senior leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, who negotiated last years deal with the U.S., assuring Afghanistans neighbors they have nothing to fear from the insurgent movement.

The Taliban surge comes as the U.S. and NATO all but wind up their nearly 20 years in Afghanistan. Earlier this week, the U.S. Central Command said the American withdrawal was 95% complete, after President Joe Bidens mid-April announcement that America was ending the forever war.

The Tashkent meeting will have representatives of U.S. Homeland Security as well as Washingtons special Afghan peace envoy, Zalmay Khalilzad. Also attending are Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, as well as Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The five Central Asian States had a separate meeting with Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall, President Joe Bidens assistant for homeland security. Afghanistan figured prominently in their talks, which centered on ways to cooperate on regional security.

"Participants in the meeting voiced their adherence to creating stable conditions that would help peaceful settlement in Afghanistan, said a statement from the Turkmenistan foreign ministry following the meeting.

The goals of the gathering are now unclear. Rather than the original agenda of highways and railroads, the powers are likely looking for some regional consensus over what a final peace can look like and action from all the players to push that through. The fear is not only over Taliban gains; without a peace deal, Afghanistans many warlords may turn to a new, destructive civil war among themselves to seek power or preserve their interests.

We call on countries of the region and the broader international community to play a constructive role in support of the Afghan peace process, Borrell said, adding he will make a personal plea at the Tashkent conference.

The conference gathers many of Afghanistans neighbors, including Pakistan, Iran, Russia, China, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Several of them have been accused of backing factions inside Afghanistan and fomenting violence for their own gains. They also have concerns about militant groups inside Afghanistan that threaten them, like the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan and the Islamic State group. The Taliban are seen by many, including the U.S., as useful bulwarks against those groups.

In Tashkent, Afghanistans President Ashraf Ghani is expected to meet Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines. At the same time, Pakistan will be hosting a meeting in Islamabad with the Afghan political leadership, apparently aiming to heal regional rifts. That meeting may begin as early as Friday.

The relationship between the two countries is fraught with suspicion and heated mutual accusations.

Ghani has accused Islamabad of fomenting violence in Afghanistan because the Taliban leadership is headquartered in Pakistan. The Taliban also often use Afghan refugee camps in Pakistan for rest and relaxation. Many Taliban leaders also have their families in Pakistans key cities of Karachi on the Arabia Sea and Quetta in southwestern Baluchistan province, where the insurgent movement also brings its wounded for treatment.

Pakistan, however, says it has used its influence with the Taliban to get them to the negotiation table, even as it says that influence is waning as the insurgents gain more territory inside Afghanistan.

Pakistan also accuses Afghanistan of harboring the Pakistani Taliban  the anti-Pakistan militant Tehreek-e-Taliban group, which is separate from the Afghan Taliban and which stepped up its attacks against Pakistans military in recent months. Pakistan also blames Afghanistans intelligence agency of aiding the Pakistani Taliban as well as the Baluchistan Liberation Army, a secessionist movement blamed for attacks against Chinese interests in Pakistan.

The volatility of the regional players makes the relationships often a delicate balance.

The key regional players all share a desire for a more stable Afghanistan, and they back the peace process. But the risk is that they will work at cross purposes by supporting competing factions within Afghanistan, said Michael Kugelman, deputy director of the Asia Program at the U.S.-based Wilson Center.

And at the end of the day, while the Taliban is happy to hear out the Chinese, the Russians, and the Iranians, it has the luxury of shrugging off what they say about easing violence, redirecting their full attention to the battlefield, and finishing off a fight they believe theyre winning.

___

Associated Press writers Daria Litvinova and Vladimir Isachenkov in Moscow contributed to this report.
JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  As many Asian countries battle their worst surge of COVID-19 infections, the slow flow of vaccine doses from around the world is finally picking up speed, giving hope that inoculation rates can increase and help blunt the effect of the rapidly spreading delta variant.

With many vaccine pledges still unfulfilled and rates of infection spiking across multiple countries, however, experts say more needs to be done to help nations struggling with the overflow of patients and shortages of oxygen and other critical supplies.

Some 1.5 million doses of the Moderna vaccine arrived Thursday afternoon in Indonesia, which has become a dominant hot spot with record high infections and deaths.

The U.S. shipment follows 3 million other American doses that arrived Sunday, and 11.7 million doses of AstraZeneca that have come in batches since March through the U.N.-backed COVAX mechanism, the last earlier this week.

Its quite encouraging, said Sowmya Kadandale, health chief in Indonesia of UNICEF, which is in charge of the distribution of vaccines provided through COVAX. It seems now to be, and not just in Indonesia, a race between the vaccines and the variants, and I hope we win that race.

Many, including the World Health Organization, have been critical of the vaccine inequalities in the world, pointing out that many wealthy nations have more than half of their populations at least partially vaccinated, while the vast majority of people in lower-income countries are still waiting on a first dose.

The International Red Cross warned this week of a widening global vaccine divide and said wealthy countries needed to increase the pace of following through on their pledges.

Its a shame it didnt happen earlier and cant happen faster, Alexander Matheou, the Asia-Pacific director of the Red Cross, said of the recent uptick in deliveries. Theres no such thing as too late  vaccinating people is always worth doing  but the later the vaccines come, the more people will die.

Vietnam, Thailand and South Korea have all imposed new lockdown restrictions over the past week as they struggle to contain rapidly rising infections amid sluggish vaccination campaigns.

In South Korea  widely praised for its initial response to the pandemic that included extensive testing and contact tracing  a shortage in vaccines has left 70% of the population still waiting for their first shot. Thailand, which only started its mass vaccination in early June, is seeing skyrocketing cases and record deaths, and only about 15% of people have had at least one shot. In Vietnam, only about 4% have.

Parts of the world ... are talking about reclaiming lost freedoms such as going back to work, opening the cinemas and restaurants, Matheou told The Associated Press. This part of the world is far away from that.

Indonesia started aggressively vaccinating earlier than many in the region, negotiating bilaterally with China for the Sinovac jabs. Now about 14% of its population  the fourth largest in the world  has at least one dose of a vaccine, primarily Sinovac. Several countries also have their own production capabilities, including South Korea, Japan and Thailand, but still need more doses to fill the needs of the regions huge population.

Both Moderna and AstraZeneca have been really critical in ramping up these numbers and ensuring that the supplies are available, said UNICEF's Kadandale, noting that Indonesia plans to have some additional 208.2 million people vaccinated by years end and is giving 1 million shots daily. Every single dose does make a huge difference.

Many other countries in the region have vaccination rates far below Indonesias for a variety of reasons, including production and distribution issues as well as an initial wait-and-see attitude from many early on when numbers were low and there was less of a sense of urgency.

Some were shocked into action after witnessing the devastation in India in April and May as the countrys health system collapsed under a severe spike in cases that caught the government unprepared and led to mass fatalities.

At the same time, India  a major regional producer of vaccines  stopped exporting doses so that it could focus on its own suffering population.

The U.S. has sent tens of millions of vaccine doses to multiple countries in Asia recently, part of President Joe Bidens pledge to provide 80 million doses, including Vietnam, Laos, South Korea and Bangladesh. The U.S. plans to donate an additional 500 million vaccines globally in the next year, and 200 million by the end of 2021.

Indonesia is a critical partner for U.S. engagement in Southeast Asia and the vaccines come without strings attached, said Scott Hartmann, a spokesman for the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta. Were doing this with the object of saving lives and ending the global pandemic, and equitable global access to safe and effective vaccines is essential.

Earlier in the week, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, whose country is one of the largest financial backers of COVAX, accused Russia and China of using their delivery of vaccines for policy leverage.

We note, in particular with China, that the supply of vaccines was also used to make very clear political demands of various countries, he said, without providing specific examples.

There are also growing questions about the effectiveness of Chinas Sinovac vaccine against the delta variant of the virus.

Thai officials said that booster doses of AstraZeneca would be given to front-line medical personnel who earlier received two doses of Sinovac, after a nurse who received two doses of Sinovac died Saturday after contracting COVID-19.

Sinovac has been authorized by WHO for emergency use but Indonesia also said it was planning boosters for health workers, using some of the newly delivered Moderna doses, after reports that some of the health workers who had died since June had been fully vaccinated with the Chinese shot.

We have still found people getting severe symptoms or dying even when they are vaccinated, Pandu Riono, an epidemiologist with the University of Indonesia, said about the Sinovac shot. Its only proven that some vaccines are strong enough to face the delta variant  AstraZeneca, Moderna and Pfizer seem capable.

While the majority of recent deliveries have been American, Japan was sending 1 million doses of AstraZeneca on Thursday each to Indonesia, Taiwan and Vietnam as part of bilateral deals, and Vietnam said it was receiving 1.5 million more AstraZeneca doses from Australia.

The Philippines is expecting a total of 16 million doses in July, including 3.2 million from the U.S. later this week, 1.1 million from Japan, 132,000 of Sputnik V from Russia, as well as others through COVAX.

Japan is also is sending 11 million through COVAX this month to Bangladesh, Cambodia, Iran, Laos, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and others.

Canada this week committed an additional 17.7 million surplus doses to the 100 million already pledged through COVAX, which is coordinated by Gavi, a vaccine alliance. France delivered 1.7 million doses worldwide through June with COVAX and is sending millions more this summer.

In addition to distributing some donated vaccines, financial contributions to COVAX also help fund the purchase of doses to distribute for free to 92 low or moderate income nations.

Earlier this month, it took blistering criticism from the African Union for how long it was taking for vaccines to reach the continent, noting that just 1% of Africans are fully vaccinated.

Gavi said the vaccine shortfall so far this year is because the major COVAX supplier, the Serum Institute of India, diverted production to domestic use.

In its latest supply forecast, however, Gavi shows deliveries just beginning a sharp uptick and still on track to meet the goal of about 1.5 billion doses by years end, representing 23% coverage in lower and middle income nations, and more than 5 billion doses by the end of 2022.

Its better to focus on vaccinating the world and to avoid hoarding doses, said Matheou of the Red Cross. Sharing vaccines makes everyone safer.

____

Rising reported from Bangkok. Associated Press writers Edna Tarigan in Jakarta, Indonesia, Zeke Miller in Washington, Frank Jordans in Berlin, and Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to this report.

___

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
VATICAN CITY (AP)  A prosecutor for the Holy See asked a Vatican court Thursday to convict and sentence an Italian priest for the alleged sexual abuse of a former altar boy on Vatican City property.

The charges against the Rev. Gabriele Martinelli stem from abuse that allegedly took place at the Vaticans youth seminary. The case is the first to go to trial alleging sexual abuse within the Vatican's walls.

Prosecutor Roberto Zannotti argued for Martinelli's conviction on charges of aggravated carnal violence and aggravated libertine acts. The prosecutor requested an eight-year prison sentence, reduced to four years, for the first charge, and a sentence of four years, reduced to two years, for the latter.

The prosecutor said he asked for reduced sentences because Martinelli also was a minor and a seminarian when the alleged crimes were committed.

Earlier in the trial, the former altar boy testified that he arrived at the seminary from northern Italy as a 13-year-old and Martinelli began molesting him a few months later.

The prosecution alleges that Martinelli used his authority as a more senior seminarian, threats and violence to force the younger boy into acts of sodomy and masturbation from 2007 to-2012.

Martinelli had denied molesting his accuser, who is being identified only as L.G.

Students from the St. Pius X seminary serve as altar boys during papal Masses at St. Peters Basilica.

In 2017, former altar boys went public with abuse accusations against Martinelli and cover-up allegations against seminary superiors.

A former seminary rector, the Rev. Enrico Radice, is charged with having helped Martinelli avoid investigators by discrediting L.G.'s allegations as baseless. Radice has denied knowing anything about abuse or impeding the probe.

The prosecutor asked the court to convict and sentence Radice to four years in prison.

The trial was set to continue on Friday.
WENATCHEE, Wash. (AP)  A wildfire threatening more than 1,500 homes near Wenatchee, Washington, grew to 17 square miles (44 square kilometers) by Thursday afternoon and was about 10% contained, the Washington state Department of Natural Resources said.

About 200 firefighters are battling the Red Apple Fire near this north-central Washington city renowned for its apples. The fire was threatening homes, apple orchards and an electrical substation, but no structures have been lost, officials said.

Our focus is on structure protection, said Ryan Rodruck, a spokesman for DNR on the fire.

Chelan County sheriff's deputies executed a search warrant at a home Wednesday believed to be connected to the start of the wildfire. No details were released and the cause remains under investigation.

The fire started Tuesday evening and is burning grass and sage near US Highway 2.

Residents of more than 1,500 homes were under various evacuation notifications Wednesday, according to the Chelan County Sheriffs Office.

The Washington state Department of Transportation closed a four-mile stretch of US 97A just north of Wenatchee due to fire activity for most of Wednesday. The roadway fully reopened on Thursday morning.

Chelan County declared a state of emergency because of the fire burning between Wenatchee and Cashmere, Washington.

Wendy Bowman told KING-TV of Seattle that she has been nervously watching the hillsides above her home as the flames creep closer. Right away, when we saw the fires we started to pack up stuff because if we get an ember on this dry land its going up quick, Bowman said.

The fire is one of several burning in Washington, stoked by high temperatures and dry vegetation that have prompted a statewide burn ban.
The state Supreme Court agreed Thursday to review a Dane County judges ruling that Republican legislative leaders illegally hired private taxpayer-funded attorneys to represent them in anticipation of legal challenges over redistricting.

Judge Stephen Ehlke in April voided the GOPs contracts with two outside law firms. The deals allowed for spending more than $1 million for representation.
Texans' memories aren't that short. It'll be a long time before they forget a certain flight to Cancun.

In an appearance on Fox News Tuesday, Sen. Ted Cruz blasted the more than 50 Texas Democrats who went to Washington D.C. to prevent Republicans' controversial voting bills from going to quorum.

IN TEXAS (AND D.C.): Gov. Greg Abbott issues scathing response to Texas Dems dramatic block on voting bills

"What you're seeing the Democrats do here, it is a political stunt," Cruz said. "They're doing this in a fit."

But Cruz's comments brought plenty of reminders of the time when he fled the state for Cancun during the winter storm that killed more than 200 Texans in February.

Democrat Julian Castro advised Cruz to maybe stay out of it this time.

Georgia Rep. Hank Johnson had even harsher words for Cruz.

"If its one thing [Cruz] knows about, its jet setting," Johnson wrote on Twitter. "Reminds you of when he abandoned his duty to the people of Texas when he left in the middle of a winter storm to go to Cancun."

And of course, plenty of others on Twitter jumped in to pile on the sitting senator.

MILLER LITE AND SAD SALADS: Texas Democrats who left state are having a weird 'fugitive' moment

Cruz often jokes about that fateful and short trip to Mexico's sunny shores, which he later admitted was "obviously a mistake."

Texans remain unamused.
It's nice to be back in the mix of things with our many community events. Luther Days was a success, and now we move onto Troutarama in the next coming week. Unfortunately, we were unable to have the Irons Flea Roast. But don't cry Oxy, I'm sure it will be back next year.

With all of the negative news stories we seem to see nowadays, I think it's time for more weird laws across the nation. In this edition of the "Sheriff's Corner," I cover strange laws of the U.S., Part IV.

RHODE ISLAND: It is illegal to send fake death notifications or fake marriage announcements to the newspaper.

Public Act 1-18-3 states: "Every person who shall willfully send to the publishers of any newspaper, for the purpose of publication, a fraudulent notice of the birth of a child or of the marriage of any persons or of the death of any person, shall be fined not exceeding one hundred dollars ($100)."

SOUTH CAROLINA: You must be at least 18 years old to play pinball AND you cannot lie about your age to enter a movie theatre.

SC Code  63-19-2430 (2012) states: "It is unlawful for a minor under the age of eighteen to play a pinball machine.";

SC Code  63-19-2410 states: "A minor who gains admission to any theater by falsely claiming to be eighteen years of age or older is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than fifty dollars."

SOUTH DAKOTA: There is a limit on how much alcohol can be contained in candy.

Codified Laws 39-4-3.2 states: "Alcoholic beverage licensee permitted to sell confection or candy containing one-half of one percent alcohol by weight or more. A licensee pursuant to subdivision 35-4-2(4), (6), (11), (12), or (16) may sell or offer for sale any confection or candy made on the licensed premises containing one half of one percent alcohol by weight or more."

Not sure if this applies to jello shots. LOL

TENNESSEE: You cannot hunt, trap, or harm an albino deer intentionally.

TN Code  70-4-130 (2014) states:

"(a) Except as provided in  70-4-115, it is unlawful for any person to knowingly hunt, kill, trap, ensnare, or destroy, or to attempt to destroy, or to have in such person's possession albino deer, which is a deer with a lack or significant deficiency of pigment in the skin and hair and with pink eyes.

(b) Any violations of the proclamations or rules and regulations promulgated by the fish and wildlife commission are punishable as provided in this title, and the illegal taking or possession of each animal constitutes a separate offense.

(c) Violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by fine only."

TEXAS: Someone wishing to run for public office must believe in god or higher power.

Texas Constitution Bill of Rights Sec. 4. states: "No religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office, or public trust, in this State; nor shall any one be excluded from holding office on account of his religious sentiments, provided he acknowledge the existence of a Supreme Being."

UTAH: No one may hurl a missile at a bus or bus terminal.

Utah Code 76-10-1505 states:

"(1) Any person who discharges a firearm or hurls a missile at or into any bus or terminal shall be

guilty of a third degree felony.

(2) The prohibition of this section does not apply to elected or appointed peace officers or

commercial security personnel who discharge firearms or hurl missiles in the course and scope

of their employment."

VERMONT: A local unit of government cannot ban someone from having a "clothesline" since it is considered a renewable resource.

Vermont Statute Title 24, Chp 61,  2291a states: "Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, no municipality, by ordinance, resolution, or other enactment, shall prohibit or have the effect of prohibiting the installation of solar collectors, clotheslines, or other energy devices based on renewable resources. This section shall not apply to patio railings in condominiums, cooperatives, or apartments."

VIRGINIA: It is unlawful to shine a light at a chicken coop at night.

Code of Virginia Chp 12, Article 3  18.2-509 states: "Any person in any motor vehicle or otherwise who, between a half hour after sunset on any day and a half hour before sunrise the following day, employs a light attached to such vehicle, or employs a spotlight to cast a light beyond the surface of the roadway upon any poultry house or other building inhabited by animals that causes such animals to panic or become injured, except upon his own land or upon private land on which he has permission, shall be guilty of a Class 4 misdemeanor."

WASHINGTON: It is illegal to walk out in public if you have the common cold.

RCW 70.54.050 states: "Every person who shall willfully expose himself or herself to another, or any animal affected with any contagious or infectious disease, in any public place or thoroughfare, except upon his or her or its necessary removal in a manner not dangerous to the public health; and every person so affected who shall expose any other person thereto without his or her knowledge, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor."

Also, can't forget about this in Seattle: "Women who sit on men's laps on buses or trains without placing a pillow between them face an automatic six-month jail term."

WEST VIRGINIA: A $.01 (one cent) tax was added to a can of pop (aka soda) to support the school of nursing and dentistry for West Virginia University.

West Virginia Code Chp 11, Article 8 11-19-2 states: "For the purpose of providing revenue for the construction, maintenance and operation of a four-year school of medicine, dentistry and nursing of West Virginia University, an excise tax is hereby levied and imposed on and after midnight of June 30, 1951, upon the sale, use, handling or distribution of all bottled soft drinks and all soft drink syrups, whether manufactured within or without this state, as follows:

(1) On each bottled soft drink, a tax of 1 on each sixteen and nine-tenths fluid ounces, or fraction thereof, or on each one-half liter, or fraction thereof contained therein.

(2) On each gallon of soft drink syrup, a tax of 80, and in like ratio on each part gallon thereof, or on each four liters of soft drink syrup a tax of 84, and in like ratio on each part four liters thereof.

(3) On each ounce by weight of dry mixture or fraction thereof used for making soft drinks, a tax of 1 or on each 28.35 grams, or fraction thereof, a tax of 1."

WISCONSIN: Cheese better taste good, or it's not legal. Same with butter!

ATCP 81.60 states: "Wisconsin certified premium grade AA brick and muenster cheese shall be fine, highly pleasing and free from undesirable flavors and odors, except that the cheese may have a very slight feed flavor. Flavor standards are shown in the grade AA column of Table 9. The presence or absence of flavor characteristics shall be determined organoleptically by taste and smell."

ATCP 85.03 states. "(1) Wisconsin Grade AA butter conforms to the following:

(a) It shall possess a fine and highly pleasing butter flavor.

(b) It may possess a feed or culture flavor to a slight degree or cooked flavor to a definite degree, or any combination of these characteristics."

Note: Wisconsin State law forbids restaurants from substituting margarine for butter unless a customer specifically asks for the substitution.

WYOMING: It is illegal to be drunk and downhill ski.

W.S. 6-9-301 states: "(a) No person shall move uphill on any passenger tramway or use any ski slope or trail while such persons ability to do so is impaired by the consumption of alcohol or by the use of any illicit controlled substance or other drug as defined by W.S. 35-7-1002...

...(d) Any person violating this section is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than twenty (20) days, a fine of not more than two hundred dollars ($200.00), or both."

 This information is provided to you for clarification on specific laws, and not legal advice. This is not to be construed as a personal opinion, agreement or disagreement of any specific law. Topics covered are for educational and informational purposes only. As needed, excerpts from other articles are used for reference and/or content. If you have any questions on any specific topic, you may always email me your questions to rmartin@co.lake.mi.us.
A. Fill the pool and build pickleball courts. That makes sense next to the tennis courts already there.

B. Refurbish the pool and deed it back to the Beverly Hills Civic Association.

C. Do away with the pool and build a fountain to bring people and families to the park.

D. Fill the pool and construct a pavilion to enhance the community.

Vote

View Results
Florida, FL (34429)

Today

Variable clouds with scattered showers and thunderstorms, mainly during the afternoon hours. High 88F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Partly to mostly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 73F. Winds light and variable.
One in five CEOs use the word digital when stating their top business priorities.

First let me start with a question: Do you know why your organization is transforming digitally? Youll probably muse, because we need to, or because everyone is doing so. Or possibly suppose, because of our customers or a similar generic response. You may feel entirely tripped up by this seemingly easy question.

Id like to invite you to sit back and consider doing the exact opposite of the worlds current mantra, faster, faster, faster for the next few minutes to gain more consciousness and clarity in leading, or contributing, to your organizations digital transformation (DX).

Some of you may have heard reference to Simon Sineks famous quote, People dont buy what you do, they buy why you do it at least once in your professional life, maybe as part of a leadership program, in a new marketing campaign, or watching Shark Tank. Sinek introduced his Golden Circle concept in a TED talk in 2009 -- and it has had more than 55 million views. The Golden Circle can be viewed as a simple, yet effective tool that can be applied in any context for a compelling structure and communication to trigger commitment and inspire action. First ask WHY you are doing something, then ask HOW you are doing it, and lastly get to the WHAT of the issue.

I have adopted this inside-out thinking myself, and use it regularly. To give you a recent example, just a few weeks ago, I defined different work streams during a project planning exercise, applying the WHY-HOW-WHAT thinking, thus ensuring early engagement from all stakeholders from the beginning. The Golden Circle concept can also be applied to any transformation workshop and has worked well in various customer engagements. The fact is, it will almost certainly help with navigating and executing your DX more successfully.

When developing a study unveiling five strategic patterns for successful digital transformation, I focused on the overall HOW these companies pursue their digital transformation, naturally involving their WHY and WHAT in the conversations and analysis. For the study I interviewed DX stakeholders, responsible for and involved in building comprehensive in-depth case studies from seven traditional, non-digitally native companies. Let me share my conclusions with you.

Is it sufficient to say, because youre making (or saving) money?  The WHY to your DX

Many companies jump right into the WHAT phase, initiating various digital initiatives like chatbots, cloud first, or digital twins. When asking WHY they are developing digital twins or fostering a DevOps culture, the main answer will probably be to reduce costs or save time. Without a doubt, no company is transforming digitally just for the sake of it. Cost and time are valid reasons to do so, but is a reason centered around financial drivers provide inspirational value creation?

Does it trigger commitment and action from your teams? Speaking to those responsible for DX in traditional businesses, the common ground around the WHY crystallizes around an end-to-end focus on their customers, and, increasingly, a shift to business-to-business-to-customer (B2B2C) thinking. They emphasize the purpose of adding value to their external and internal customers responding and anticipating the continuously increasing digitalization in society and businesses.

From business-IT alignment to business defined by IT - The HOW to your DX

Part of how HPE Digital Advisors engage with executive DX stakeholders requires a good deal of research on the specifics of the organizations publicly available strategy. While industry segmentation has its place, a one-size-fits-all approach to DX does not work. The pervasive impacts of digital innovation and disruption require a strategic response: a DX strategy. Some customers have a distinct digital strategy with initiatives on a corporate level, while others embed DX directly in their corporate strategy as one of multiple strategic initiatives. Transversely, many have multiple digital strategies in their individual business units; for example sales has their own, and R&D likewise. A few traditional enterprises are navigating their transformation even without any digital strategy, initiating individual lighthouse projects, proof of concepts, or digital innovation projects either out of the lines of business or the IT department.

However, this is precisely the issue: in discussing the complex journey of digital transformation with our customers, were recognizing that the organizations mindset must evolve from conventional business-IT alignment toward a business defined by traditional IT. Most IT strategies are too narrowly focused on single digital technologies instead of true digital strategies orientated at business outcomes, technology capabilities, and the people who form the backbone of the organization.

Today, lines of business progressively acknowledge ITs evolving role from a pure function to a business enabler, to a digital partner in their transformation. Indeed, in the digital age, there is no distinction between other business or IT strategies  digital is omnipresent to sustain business.

Successful companies are stimulating symbiotic relationships, balancing autonomy and alignment to allow for certain freedom in choice and creativity in approaches, while not losing sight of the overarching digital aspirations. They design a shared responsibility within the organization, with the CDO and business in the driving seat and the CIO and IT teams as co-drivers and partners. In midst of the Covid pandemic, many have opportunistically seized the momentum for a CIO or head of IT to intensify the relationship with CDOs, and lines of business, by being the organizations motor for DX as one head of IT described in my study. In a former article, I refer to the digital honeymoon.

Score a digital home run with the right initiatives - The WHAT to your DX

 S ocial, M obile, A nalytics, C loud, I nternet of T hings These current articulations of digital initiatives predominantly consist of SMACIT technologies  the acronym for existing and emerging digital technologies. Often, they are put in the context of specific use cases, for specific business areas, or personas. For example, Use VR/AR to onboard and train employees or, Develop mobile app to engage digitally with customers. Nonetheless, some initiatives are coined from a conceptual, an organizational, or a cultural dimension. For example, developing a corporate-wide data structure concept, modernizing sales and marketing, or increasing the organizational sensitization for security topics are all real examples from conversations with customers. DX describes an organizations journey focusing wholeheartedly on creating value across all levels of business, operations, and infrastructure-driven digital technologies. Nevertheless, it becomes essential again to remind oneself that DX is as much of a technology-enabled topic as it is a human-driven one, transforming digitally stands and falls with the people at its coreand a digital operating model.

Although the emergence and versatile application of digital technologies present endless game-changing opportunities, three common patterns in digital initiatives have emerged. First, data-based or data-driven initiatives present central elements in every digital strategy, forming both a prerequisite as well as an aspired outcome for enterprises. Gartners recent survey reflects this finding with 72% of data and analytics leaders leading or being heavily involved in DX initiatives. Second, five out of the seven companies interviewed strive for more service-orientation and as-a-service models, i.e., self-service options for their stakeholders and subscription models for their products, services, and even capabilities such as data analytics. Third, successful DX always means advancing two focus areas: externally focused digital offerings and a digital customer journey, and an evolving operating model with digital value chains and a digital culture that is internally directed.

Be different!

Applying the Golden Circle concept to your organizations digital transformation might inspire you to communicate your digital ambition more successfully, trigger commitment and actions across your organization, and better overcome common barriers in your organizations transformation. Start with your organizations WHY to DX, create shared responsibility between CDO and CIO, foster a symbiotic relationship between business and IT, and converge both teams aspirations and capabilities in an effective digital strategyall before deciding what initiatives your organization strives to realize. Almost every company knows what they do, and to a great extent knows how they do it. Few companies know WHY they do it  be different.

For further information please reach out to digitaladvisor@hpe.com.

https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2021-05-11-gartner-survey-reveals-most-ceos-anticipate-an-economic-boom-rather-than-stagnation-over-the-next-two-years

 https://www.ted.com/talks/simon_sinek_how_great_leaders_inspire_action

____________________________________

About Yara-Yasemin Schuetz



Yara-Yasemin Schuetz is a Digital Advisor at HPE. She supports organizations in their digital transformation journey, from strategizing to realizing the full value of leveraging digital technologies, in order to advance the way people live and work. Fluent in four languages, she uses those linguistic skills to good use to create a shared language between business outcomes and IT requirements. Her consulting approach to empowering organizations to unlock their full digital ambition embodies having participants step out of their comfort zone for greater collaboration. She holds an MSc in Digital Business Management from the University of Reutlingen, recently led an empirical study on digital strategy patterns.
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This article is part of Covering Climate Now, a global journalism collaboration strengthening coverage of the climate story.

CLIMATE CHANGE AMOUNTS TO an undeclared, deeply unjust war against the global poor. Though they have emitted almost none of the heat-trapping gases that have raised global temperatures to their highest levels in civilizations history, it is the poorespecially in low-income countries in Asia, Africa, and South Americawho suffer first and worst from overheating the planet.

For more than a decade, perilous, climate-driven events in wealthier nations have been preceded by counterparts in the global South. The deadly heat that has brutalized the American Westand rightly attracted headline news coveragethese past few weeks? That kind of heat has been killing and immiserating people across the Sahel in Africa for many yearsfor example, in Burkina Faso, where, as one local journalist lamented with tears in his eyes, the suffering was especially heartbreaking among the old, the old people in his village. The sea-level rise that is increasingly inundating Venice, despite the $6 billion spent on elaborate sea barriers meant to protect the citys treasures? Rising seas have been slashing rice yields in Bangladesh for a decade, as salty ocean water intrudes farther and farther inland onto the soil of the tabletop-flat delta of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers.

Recent scholarly studies and social media posts have suggested that this summers unprecedented heat and unfolding fire season might finally help more Americans acknowledge the realities of climate change. Perhaps now, the thinking goes, more of them will realize that climate change is not only real and dangerousits happening, right now, to them or people just like them. But those realities have been clear for some time: The global poor have been living, and dying, from such climate-driven disasters for yearsand with much less attention from the world media.

A glaring example came last week, when virtually every news outlet in the global North ignored a landmark meeting where leaders of low-income countries articulated their positions prior to the make-or-break United Nations COP26 climate summit in November. This V20 meetingso named for the 20 countries that founded the Climate Vulnerable Forum in 2009was hosted by Bangladesh in its capital city, Dhaka, on July 8.

Heads of government or finance ministers from 48 countries that are exceptionally vulnerable to climate change and inhabited by a combined two billion people attended the Dhaka summit in person or online. So did John Kerry, US president Joe Bidens international climate envoy; Antonio Guterres, the UN Secretary General; David Malpass, the president of the World Bank Group; and the heads of development banks in Asia and Africa.

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The world media was nowhere to be seen.

V20 organizers made it as convenient as possible for European and American news organizations to cover the Dhaka event. Online streaming provided real-time access to the proceedings, in a choice of languages: English, French, Spanish, or Arabic. Mindful of the time differences involvedDhaka is five hours ahead of London, ten hours ahead of New Yorkorganizers even scheduled the event for late night Bangladesh time: it was 10:30pm local time when the opening session began.

Nevertheless, it appears that the only coverage by a global North news outlet was a 750-word story by Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of the Thomson Reuters global news and information service. And apparently the only places that story was picked up were the websites of the Canadian Broadcasting Company and the Daily Mail newspaper in Britain.

Its inconceivable that the world media would treat a G7 or G20 summit like this. When leaders of the worlds seven richest per-capita countries met in June, broadcast networks and newspapers across the global North provided daily coverage before, during, and after the summit. There was abundant coverage again last week when finance ministers of the worlds twenty richest countries announced a tax crackdown on multinational corporations.

The contrasting silence about the V20 summit reveals an inexcusable double standard on the part of global North news organizations. The unmistakable, if unwitting, message is that some voices in the global climate discussion count much more than others.

Correcting this double standard is not merely a matter of fairness; its also about telling the climate story accurately and in full in the lead-up to the crucial COP26 summit.

Had newsrooms in the global North tuned in, they would have seen that the V20 summit in fact made plenty of news. Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina and other V20 heads of government reminded rich countries of their pledge under the Paris Agreement to limit temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius and to provide $100 billion a year in climate aid to poor countries. Secretary General Guterres and the COP26 president, British MP Alok Sharma, reiterated the point. More surprising, given the USs patchy history around these issues, Kerry also endorsed the idea, calling the $100 billion in annual aid imperative. V20 finance ministers also announced that each of their countries is creating a National Climate Prosperity Plan to boost resilience to climate impacts and reach net-zero emissions by 2050, while also building economic prosperity. Bangladesh is leading the way with its Mujib Climate Prosperity Plan, named after the statesman regarded as the father of Bangladesh.

But to achieve these goals, low-income countries need financial helpwhich rich countries have promised, but mostly failed to deliver, for years now. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development claims to have given $79 billion in 2018 (the last year with reliable data)a claim that unfortunately was taken at face value in the Thomson Reuters Foundation article. An analysis by Oxfam, the anti-poverty NGO,found that this figure is wildly inflated, based on dodgy definitions and accounting tricks; for example, 75 percent of the aid was given as loans, not grants. A more accurate figure, Oxfam concluded, is $20 billion a year.

This aid shortfall carries profound implications, not only for the global poor but for the richs own prospects of survival. One of every four people on earth live in the 48 countries in the Climate Vulnerable Forum. If those countries lack the means to choose a green energy future over a brown one, there is zero hope of limiting temperature rise to 1.5 C. In that event, the rich as well as the poor will suffer, as the current heat and fire in the American Westwhich are occurring after only 1.1 C of temperature risepainfully demonstrate.

All this amounts to news that could hardly be more urgent for people to hear, wherever they happen to live on this planet. Its past time the world media treated it that way.

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Saleemul Huq and Mark Hertsgaard are the authors. Huq is the director of the International Centre for Climate Change and Development in Dhaka and a professor at the Independent University Bangladesh. Hertsgaard is the executive director of Covering Climate Now, the environment correspondent of The Nation, and the author of books including HOT and Earth Odyssey.
Donald Trumps election in 2016 created a lot of turmoil for Facebookincluding accusations of improper data stewardship involving Cambridge Analytica, and a number of awkward appearances before Congressional committees, where founder and chief executive Mark Zuckerberg was questioned about the social networks role in spreading disinformation related to everything from the 2016 election to the January 6 attack on the US Capitol building. According to Ugly Truth: Inside Facebooks Battle for Domination, a new book by New York Times reporters Cecilia Kang and Sheera Frenkel, the fallout from these events didnt just cause external problems; it also reportedly created a rift between the Facebook CEO and Sheryl Sandberg, the companys chief operating officer and a former Google executive, who was hired in part for her Washington connections. Mark Zuckerberg and Sheryl Sandbergs Partnership Did Not Survive Trump, read a recent Times headline on an excerpt from the book.

Kang and Frenkel report that Zuckerberg took control of almost all matters related to Trump, including how to handle his posting of hate speech and disinformationmatters that would previously have been handled by Sandberg. According to the book, Sandberg reportedly disagreed with Zuckerbergs decisions, but didnt want to raise her disagreement with the Facebook founder. The company, not surprisingly, denies any and all reports of a rift between the two most powerful people at the top of the company. This book tells a false narrative based on selective interviews, many from disgruntled individuals, and cherry-picked facts, Dani Lever, a Facebook spokesperson, told Insider in a statement. The fault lines that the authors depict between Mark and Sheryl and the people who work with them do not exist. All of Marks direct reports work closely with Sheryl and hers with Mark. Sheryls role at the company has not changed.

The alleged friction between Zuckerberg and Sandberg isnt the only upheaval the company is dealing with as a result of its handling of Trump, according to the book. Frenkel and Kang report that there is a significant amount of dissent within the ranks of the companys employees as well, especially over the social networks failure to act quickly to stop the flow of disinformation from the presidents account. Kang told NPRs Fresh Air podcast that one of the most fascinating things about reporting the book (which the authors said involved more than 400 interviews) was talking to employees who kept trying to raise the alarm, saying This is a problem. We are spreading misinformation. We are letting the president spread misinformation and its being amplified by our own algorithms. Our systems arent working the way we predicted and we should do something.'

ICYMI: Dark clouds gather over press freedom in Europe

The authors also provide a significant amount of supporting detail related to a story they reported on for the Times in 2018, involving how the company handled information about election-related meddling by both Russian intelligence and Russian-affiliated entities like the Internet Research Agency. Facebooks security team had detected Russian activity related to the election in March 2016, the book reports, but Zuckerberg and Sandberg didnt find out until nine months later. Facebooks head of security, Alex Stamos, put together an internal report on this activity for a December 2016 meeting. Oh f, how did we miss this? Zuckerberg said when he read the report, according to Frenkel and Kang. Sandberg was reportedly concerned about potential legal liability. Stamos was reportedly pressured to downplay the Russian involvement, and he left Facebook not long afterward to join Stanford University, where he set up the Internet Observatory project to monitor the spread of disinformation and automated propaganda.

More recently, the authors report, the company dithered over how to handle the activity on Facebook in the runup to the attack on the US Capitol. The security team warned senior executives about potential violence, the book says, and these senior managers considered asking Zuckerberg to call Trump personally, to try to get him to intervene and de-escalate the situation. But they were reportedly worried that the media would find out about the phone call, and Facebook would somehow be implicated in whatever happened. The result of the companys inaction reinforces a philosophy Facebook is arguably built on, one articulated by Facebook executive Andrew Bosworth in a quote that gives the book its name. Maybe someone dies in a terrorist attack coordinated on our tools, he wrote in a 2016 memo. The ugly truth is that we believe in connecting people so deeply that anything that allows us to connect more people more often is de facto good.

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Heres more on Facebook:

Polarization : Facebook denies that its platform either encourages or benefits from political polarization, but research published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests otherwise. We analyzed nearly 3 million U.S.-based tweets and Facebook posts to examine what social media posts that go viral have in common, researchers Steve Rathje, Jay Van Bavel, and Sander van der Linden write. The results were stark. The most viral posts tended to be about the opposing political party. Facebook posts and tweets about ones political out-group were shared about twice as often as those about ones own political group. Posts about the opposition were almost exclusively negative.

Tracking : Facebook engineers have used access to the companys user data to track down women , according to Frenkel and Kangs reporting. Between January 2014 and August 2015, the company reportedly fired more than 50 employees for exploiting their access to user data for personal purposes. One engineer used the data to confront a woman with whom he had been vacationing in Europe after she left the hotel room they had been sharing, the book said, according to a copy seen by Insider . Another dug up personal information on a woman after she stopped responding to his messages, and was also able to see her location in real time.

Unhelpful : The New York Times recently revealed some behind-the-scenes friction within Facebook over CrowdTangle, a company it acquired in 2016 , which enables users to track the spread of certain terms and posts across the social network. On one side was CrowdTangle founder Brandon Silverman, and on the other side were executives who argued that journalists and researchers were using CrowdTangle to dig up information they considered unhelpfulshowing, for example, that right-wing commentators like Ben Shapiro and Dan Bongino were getting much more engagement on their Facebook pages than mainstream news outlets.

Other notable stories:

ICYMI: Nikole Hannah-Jones on the use of power

Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today

Mathew Ingram is CJRs chief digital writer. Previously, he was a senior writer with Fortune magazine. He has written about the intersection between media and technology since the earliest days of the commercial internet. His writing has been published in the Washington Post and the Financial Times as well as by Reuters and Bloomberg.
For 21 years, the software company Kaseya labored in relative obscurity  at least until cybercriminals exploited it in early July for a massive ransomware attack that snarled businesses around the world and escalated U.S.-Russia diplomatic tensions.

But it turns out that the recent hack wasnt the first major cybersecurity problem to hit the Miami-based company and its core product, which IT teams use to remotely monitor and administer workplace computer systems and other devices.

It feels a little like deja vu, said Allie Mellen, a security analyst at Forrester Research.

In 2018, for instance, hackers managed to infiltrate Kaseyas tool in 2018 to run a cryptojacking operation, which channels the power of afflicted computers to mine cryptocurrency  often without its victims noticing. It was a less harmful breach than the recent ransomware attack, which was impossible to miss since it crippled affected systems until their owners paid up. But it similarly relied on Kaseyas Virtual System Administrator product, or VSA, as a vehicle to get access to the companies that rely on it.

A 2019 ransomware attack also rode into computers through another companys add-on software component to the Kaseya VSA, causing more limited damage than the recent attack. Some experts have tied that earlier assault to some of the same hackers who later formed REvil, the Russian-language syndicate blamed for the latest attack.

And in 2014, Kaseyas own founders sued the company in a dispute over responsibility for a VSA security flaw that allowed hackers to launch a separate cryptocurrency scheme. The court case does not appear to have been previously reported outside of a brief 2015 mention in a technical blog post. At the time, the founders denied responsibility for the vulnerability, calling the companys charges against them a bogus assertion.

Nearly all of Kaseyas security problems have as their root cause well-understood coding vulnerabilities that should have been addressed earlier, said cybersecurity expert Katie Moussouris, the founder and CEO of Luta Security.

Kaseya needs to shape up, as does the entire software industry, she said. This is a failure to incorporate the lessons the bugs were teaching you. Kaseya, like a lot of companies, is failing to learn those lessons.

Many of the attacks relied at least in part on whats known as a SQL injection, a technique hackers use to inject malicious code into web queries. Its an old technique that Mellen said has been considered a solved problem in the cybersecurity world for a decade.

It points to a chronic product security issue in Kaseyas software that remains unaddressed seven years later, she said. When organizations choose to brush over security challenges, the incidents continue, and, as in this case, get worse.

Kaseya has noted that its long been a target because many of its direct customers are managed-services providers that host IT infrastructure for hundreds, if not thousands, of other businesses.

In the business were in, and the number of endpoints we manage around the world, as you might expect, we take security extremely seriously, Ronan Kirby, president of the companys European operations, said at a Belgian cybersecurity conference Thursday. You attack a company, you get into the company. You attack a service provider, you get into all their customers. You get into Kaseya, thats a very different proposition. So obviously were an attractive target.

Kaseya declined to answer questions from The Associated Press about the previous hacks or the legal dispute involving its founders.

Mark Sutherland and Paul Wong co-founded Kaseya in California in 2000. They had previously worked together on a project protecting the email accounts of U.S. intelligence workers at the National Security Agency, according to an account on the companys website.

But more than a year after selling Kaseya in June 2013, court records show that Sutherland, Wong and two other former top executives sued the company to recoup $5.5 million in stock buybacks they said they were unfairly denied.

At the heart of the dispute was an attack by hackers who used Kaseyas VSA as a conduit to deploy Litecoin mining malware, which secretly hijacks a victim computers power to make money for the hacker by processing new cryptocurrency payments.

Kaseya publicly disclosed the attacks in a March 2014 notice to customers. Privately, it was blaming the companys previous leadership for not warning about serious vulnerabilities in Kaseyas software. It sought to deprive them of the final $5.5 million of the acquisition price to compensate for the loss of business and damaged reputation.

The founders, in turn, blamed the new leadership for scaling back on coding expertise and eliminating a hotfix system for rapidly fixing bugs, according to the lawsuit from Sutherland, Wong, former CEO Gerald Blackie and former Chief Operating Officer Timothy McMullen.

They also argued that the SQL injection technique used by the hackers was highly common and inherent in any computer code that uses the SQL programming language.

Ensuring that each and every piece of database access code is immune to SQL injection is essentially impossible, said their lawsuit. Mellen and Moussouris both rejected that assertion.

That is a bold statement and provably false, Moussouris said. It highlights the fact they lacked the security knowledge and sophistication to protect their users.

None of the plaintiffs or their lawyers responded to requests for comment. They agreed to dismiss the case in December 2013, just a month after they filed it. Its not clear how it was settled. Kaseya is privately held.

LinkedIn profiles for Sutherland and Wong list them as retired, with Sutherland also growing wine grapes. Blackie went on to become CEO of another Miami-based provider of remote-control software, Pilixo, where he was joined by McMullen. Pilixo didnt return a request for comment.

New vulnerabilities affecting Kaseyas VSA _ including the one exploited by the REvil ransomware gang _ were discovered this year by a Dutch cybersecurity research group that says it confidentially warned Kaseya in early April. In the wrong hands, these vulnerabilities could lead to the compromise of large numbers of computers managed by Kaseya VSA, the Dutch Institute for Vulnerability Disclosure said in a blog post last week explaining the timeline of its actions.

Some of those Kaseya fixed by May, including another SQL injection flaw, but the Dutch group said others were still unpatched when ransomware started hitting hundreds of businesses in early July. Kaseya has said up to 1,500 businesses have been compromised as a result of the attack. Kaseya on Sunday rolled out patches to the vulnerabilities used in the REvil attack.

Moussouris said theres a pattern of ransomware syndicates going after easily detectable software flaws.

Its collective technical debt around the world and the ransomware gangs are technical debt collectors, she said. Theyre coming after organizations like Kaseya and others that havent invested in better security.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings filed a lawsuit against Floridas surgeon general on Tuesday July 13 over a state law that bans businesses from requiring proof of COVID-19 vaccination from customers.

The cruise operator will continue to require full vaccinations for all crew and passengers, including children, ahead of sailings, starting Aug. 15 out of Florida.

NCLH filed the lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, citing surgeon general Scott Rivkees as the responsible state official enforcing the vaccine ban.

NCLH said in its complaint that Floridas prohibition of requiring documentation of vaccinations blocks communication between a business and its customers and is in violation of the First Amendment.

The Miami-based company also argues the ban disrupts the proper flow of interstate and international commerce.

NCLH called the lawsuit a last resort and said that it could face penalties of up to $5,000 per passenger by enforcing vaccine documentation.

Indeed, the only way NCLH could maintain its protocols and operations as currently planned is by abandoning Florida altogether, the suit said.

The Florida governors office criticized the NCLHs stance, saying it discriminates against children and individuals who cant be vaccinated.

Apparently Norwegian prefers the shackles of the CDC to the freedom offered by Florida, the spokeswoman said in a statement, according to the Wall Street Journal. This administration will not tolerate such widespread discrimination.

Norwegians competitors Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise are requiring unvaccinated passengers provide proof of travel insurance to cover COVID-19-related evacuation and medical expenses.

Royal Caribbean requires a policy with a minimum $25,000 per person in medical expenses and $50,000 per person for quarantine and medical evaluation relate to a positive Covid-19 test result.

Carnival Cruise announced this week passengers will need a policy with a minimum $10,000 for medical expenses and $30,000 for emergency medical evaluation. The emergency policy must not have COVID-19 exclusions.
Fierce wildfires in the northwest are threatening American Indian tribal lands that already are struggling to conserve water and preserve traditional hunting grounds in the face of a Western drought.

Blazes in Oregon and Washington were among some 60 large, active wildfires that have destroyed homes and burned through close to a million acres (1,562 square miles, 4,047 square kilometers) in a dozen mostly Western states, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

In north-central Washington, hundreds of people in the town of Nespelem on the Colville Indian Agency were ordered to leave because of imminent and life-threatening danger as the largest of five wildfires caused by dozens of Monday night lightning strikes tore through grass, sagebrush and timber.

Seven homes burned but four were vacant and the entire town evacuated safely before the fire arrived, said Andrew Joseph Jr., chairman of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation that includes more than 9,000 descendants of a dozen tribes.

Monte Piatote and his wife grabbed their pets and managed to flee but watched the fire burn the home where hed lived since he was a child.

I told my wife, I told her, `Watch. Then boom, there it was, Piatote told KREM-TV.

The confederation declared a state of emergency Tuesday and said the reservation was closed to the public and to industrial activity. The declaration said weather forecasts called for possible triple-digit temperatures and 25-mph (40-kph) winds on Wednesday into Thursday that could drive the flames.

In Oregon, the lightning-sparked Bootleg Fire that had destroyed at least 20 homes was raging through lands near the California border on Wednesday. At least 2,000 homes were threatened by the fire.

Mark Enty, a spokesman for the Northwest Incident Management Team 10 that is working to contain the fire, said that since he arrived to the area last week the Bootleg Fire has doubled in size each day.

Thats sort of like having a new fire every day, Enty said.

The blaze had spread over 315 square miles (816 square kilometers), an area larger than New York City. Firefighters for the third day in a row had to back off occasionally for their safety and weather isnt going to change for the foreseeable future, said Rob Allen, an incident commander.

Crews were facing above-normal temperatures and bone-dry humidity coupled with afternoon gusts that were expected to create dangerous fire conditions through Wednesday, officials said. Members of the Oregon National Guard were expected to be deployed to help with road closures and traffic control in fire-affected areas.

The fire disrupted three transmission lines that provide electricity to California and the states power grid operator asked for voluntary power conservation Monday. The California Independent System Operator said Tuesday that the grid was stable and with the forecast for cooler temperatures another call for conservation was not expected.

The fire in the Fremont-Winema National Forest was burning through a region where the Klamath Tribes _ comprised of three distinct indigenous peoples _ have lived for millennia.

There is definitely extensive damage to the forest where we have our treaty rights, said Don Gentry, the chairman of the Klamath Tribal Council in Chiloquin, Oregon, which is located about 25 miles (40 kilometers) west of the Bootleg Fire.

I am sure we have lost a number of deer to the fire, he said. We are definitely concerned. I know there are cultural resource areas and sensitive areas that are likely the fire is going through.

The Klamath Tribes have been impacted by wildfires before, including one that burned 23 square miles (60 square kilometers) in southern Oregon last September. That fire damaged land where many of the Klamath tribal members hunt, fish and gather. The fire also burned the tribes cemetery and at least one tribal members house, Oregon Public Broadcasting reported in September.

The tribes are struggling with drought-caused problems. In past decades, they have fought to preserve minimum water levels in Upper Klamath Lake to preserve two species of federally endangered sucker fish that are central to their culture and heritage. Farmers draw much of their irrigation water from the same lake thats critical to the fish. Even before the fire erupted, extreme drought in southern Oregon had reduced water flows to historic lows.

In California, progress was reported on the states largest fire so far this year. The Beckwourth Complex, a combined pair of lighting-ignited blazes, was almost 50% contained after blackening more than 145 square miles (375 square kilometers) near the Nevada state line.

Damage was still being tallied in the small rural community of Doyle, California, where flames swept in during the weekend and destroyed several homes, including Beverly Houdyshells.

The 79-year-old said Tuesday that shes too old and too poor to rebuild and isnt sure what her future holds.

What chance do I have to build another house, to have another home? Houdyshell said. No chance at all.

I cant just buy another house, boom like that. I had insurance. I havent heard from them yet. I called them but I havent heard nothing.

A fire that began Sunday in the Sierra Nevada south of Yosemite National Park grew to nearly 15 square miles (39 square kilometers) but containment increased to 15%. Four unspecified buildings were destroyed.

Scientists say climate change has made the West much warmer and drier, and they warn that weather will get wilder as the world warms. They say extreme conditions are often from a combination of unusually random, short-term and natural weather patterns heightened by long-term, human-caused climate change. However, special studies are needed to determine how much global warming is to blame, if at all, for a single extreme weather event.

___

Cline reported from Salem, Oregon. She is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Associated Press journalists Chris Grygiel in Seattle; Paul Davenport in Phoenix; Julie Walker in New York; Haven Daley in Doyle, California; and Christopher Weber and John Antczak in Los Angeles contributed to this report.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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As the 2020-21 school year came to a close, students and families embraced the many opportunities to celebrate with more traditional milestone events. Some of the events were rethought and refreshed in light of the pandemic. The focus was on bringing on as many people together as possible to
SHOREWOOD [mdash] Robert J. Horan, age 85, of Shorewood, IL, formerly of Preston, IA, passed away Monday, July 12, 2021 at Salud Wellness Nursing Home, in Joliet, IL. A graveside funeral service will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, in Preston, IA on Saturday, July 17, 2021 at 2pm. A
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 15)  Philippine Seven Corporation (PSC), the local operator of convenience store chain 7-Eleven, is braving business uncertainties as it moves forward to further boost its footprint with at least 200 new stores this year despite lingering COVID-19 restrictions.

In a media briefing on Thursday, Lawrence De Leon, PSC head of finance and accounting services, said the company has earmarked 1 billion in capital spending to support this target.

Currently, PSC has 3,000 stores across the country. In 2020, it managed to open 174 new storesa 50% drop in new store openings compared to 2019.

For 2021, the group hopes to increase its presence in residential areas, in the Calabarzon region in particular.

PSC president and chief executive officer Jose Victor Paterno said since only 20% to 30% of their network is located in residential areas, he sees a "blue ocean opportunity" for 7-Eleven.

This is an advantage to PSC, Paterno added, as rent is also cheaper compared to commercial spaces.

Asked about the company's performance, Paterno said he expects 7-Eleven's financial status not to end in the red this year amid the country's vaccination development.

"We hope to move to profitability, not a large one [but] it's been improving as we move through the pandemic," Paterno said.

"We believe we are better prepared for today's situation and tomorrow's," he added.

Paterno noted the company's financial performance from April to May 2021 is "better" than last year's second quarter as the government eased quarantine restrictions to prop up the economy.

In 2020, PSC saw a net loss of 419.7 million from a 1.44-billion profit in 2019 after the economy suffered due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite posting net losses last year, Paterno said the group has a robust free cash flow of 1.2 billion.

Shares of PSC in the local bourse traded flat on Thursday to finish at 97.50 each.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 15)  Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Cirilito Sobejana is set to step down by the end of the month, but two other ranking military officers are also retiring weeks before him, triggering a shake-up in the organization.

"There will be major movements," AFP spokesman Major General Edgard Arevalo, who is also due for retirement, told defense reporters.

Arevalo, who describes himself as the "longest-serving AFP spokesperson" and is also concurrently the chief of the AFP Education, Trainining and Doctrine Command (AETDC), will bid farewell to the service on July 18. But his retirement ceremony will be held on Friday.

Brigadier General Ariel Felicidario III will replace Arevalo as the new AETDC commander while AFP Public Affairs chief Capt. Jonathan Zata is expected to take over as acting AFP spokesperson.

A member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) "Bigkis Lahi" Class of 1990, Arevalo served as spokesman for half a decade under nine AFP chiefs - from General Ricardo Visaya (2016) to General Sobejana (2021).

Arevalo served as the AFP's mouthpiece during its more critical times such as the Zamboanga and Marawi sieges, the administration's unprecedented counter-insurgency campaign, and the military's response to various natural disasters, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I want to practice the legal profession and finish writing my book," Arevalo, who's also a lawyer, said when asked about his plans after retirement.

Meanwhile, Southern Luzon Command chief Lieutenant General Antonio Parlade will retire on July 26, but the change of command ceremony at the Lucena City-based Camp Nakar will be on July 23. The controversial army general and outspoken former spokesman of the government's anti-insurgency task force will be replaced by Major General Bartolome Vincente Bacarro, a recipient of the nation's highest military award for courage, the Medal of Valor (MOV).

Sobejana - the first MOV awardee to be appointed AFP chief in decades - will reach the mandatory retirement age of 56 on July 31.

Both Parlade and Sobejana are members of PMA "Hinirang" Class of 1987.

Arevalo said the AFP's Board of Generals already started deliberations for the shortlist of candidates to replace Sobejana, which will be submitted to President Rodrigo Duterte through Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.

"We assure you that this has always been a stringent process of selection - taking into account 'yung kanilang [their] professional competence, at 'yung kanilang [and their] managerial and leadership skills. Of course, 'yung kanilang [their] experience at 'yung kanilang mga [and their] training," Arevalo said.

Officials confirmed to CNN Philippines this week that Sobejana is currently "out of the country."

Details of his trip were unclear, but Sobejana was spotted attending a defense expo in Greece scheduled on July 13 to 15, as reported by security blog site MaxDefense.

Sobejana was seen with other Filipino military officers in a video clip of the International Defense Exhibition being held in Athens, which is also participated in by ranking defense and military officials from other countries.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 15)  The Department of Health is looking into the further expansion of the travel ban to include other Southeast Asian countries badly hit by the more transmissible Delta coronavirus variant.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III on Thursday said the DOH Epidemiology Bureau is conducting a two-week evaluation of the COVID-19 situation in Malaysia and Thailand, where more and more cases of the feared variant are being recorded.

"Sa ngayon tinitignan ang Malaysia, tinitignan din natin ang Thailand kung saan parang hindi na mapigilan ang pag-angat ng Delta variant cases, " he said during a media briefing. "May surveillance system na sa bureau... para mabigyan tayo ng signal kung napapanahon na magkaroon ng expanded travel ban sa additional countries."

[Translation: Right now, we are looking at Malaysia and Thailand where Delta cases seem uncontrollable. Our bureau has a surveillance system. They will get a signal if it's time to expand the travel ban.]

The findings of the DOH bureau will be forwarded to the Inter-Agency Task Force, which will make the final recommendations to President Rodrigo Duterte.

The Philippines on Wednesday included Indonesia in the travel ban list, which previously only imposed entry restrictions on travelers from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, United Arab Emirates, and Oman.

Indonesia on Thursday overtook India as Asia's new COVID-19 epicenter after it recorded 54,517 new cases  a single-day national record. Local authorities are pointing to the more infectious Delta variant as the culprit for the rising infections and deaths in the world's fourth-most populous country.

The health chief said the country's border control measures and strict quarantine protocols for incoming travelers have been effective in preventing the spread of the variant in the community.

The Philippines has so far recorded 19 Delta variant cases on incoming travelers, who were immediately isolated and quarantined upon arrival.

Duque also assured the country is prepared should the Delta variant enter the country's shores since the healthcare system has been beefed up.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 15)  Amid renewed calls to resume classroom-based learning, some members of the education sector said the real issue to address is the readiness of the government and schools to hold face-to-face classes while ensuring the safety of teachers and students.

Raymond Basilio, secretary general of the Alliance of Concerned Teachers, told CNN Philippines' The Final Word that educators are ready for limited and voluntary face-to-face learning as many students are struggling through online, module-based learning.

But he added: "I think ang (the) question nasa (is on the) Department of Education tsaka sa (and the) government kung kaya nila (if they can)."

Basilio noted that it is important to ensure schools will have the means to prevent transmission of the coronavirus - like hand washing facilities, proper ventilation, and medicines.

On Wednesday, Education Secretary Leonor Briones revived the proposal to pilot face-to-face classes as the agency anticipates the vaccination of teachers and students against COVID-19. She said she is hoping President Rodrigo Duterte - who has the final say on the matter - will consider it this time in selected areas in August, in time for the new school year.

In case the President agrees, Br. Bernard Oca, chancellor of the De La Salle University, also emphasized the importance of having the right facilities and health protocols to be put in place - primarily to protect students.

He said for colleges and universities, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has required them to retrofit their facilities for limited face-to-face classes when it was allowed early this year.

"These are still things that need to be done but if we are given the go signal, we will do our very best to meet these requirements," Oca added.

Asked whether classroom-based learning can resume now, Oca said they are not considering this due to the seriousness of the COVID-19 situation in the country. But he added they have already made plans and protocols to be implemented once students are allowed to return to school.

Meanwhile, Basilio said the government might need to revisit its policy in the implementation of face-to-face classes. The requirement of having to vaccinate even students may be challenging given the very limited supply of coronavirus shots - not to mention issues in the inoculation of the priority groups.

"Bakit hindi natin tingnan ang mga low-risk areas... Kung ang nais natin ay piloting, bakit hindi tayo magsimula sa mga areas na ito? Ang plano natin ay limited, ibig sabihin hindi naman ito para sa lahat," he pointed out.

[Translation: Why don't we look at low-risk areas. If what we want is piloting, why don't we start in these areas? The plan is limited, which means this is not for everyone.]
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 15, 2021)  The chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy has called on the Department of Energy (DOE) to thoroughly review Malampaya Energy XPs acquisition of Shells stakes at the Malampaya Deep Water Gas-to-Power Project.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said there are tell-tale signs that the company has no financial capability to sustain its operation for the country's energy security, citing the supposed high debt load of its mother company, Udenna Holdings Corp.

He stressed that the review must not be limited to Malampaya Energy XP but up to Udenna Holdings.

"Looking at news reports and balance sheets, it seems to me that Udenna is encountering some financial challenges, and this doesnt speak well on the purchase of a very important asset," Gatchalian said during a virtual Senate hearing on Wednesday.

Raouf Kizilbash, CEO of Malampaya Energy XP, said the Udenna Group was prepared to support the expansion of the Malampaya project in northwest Palawan.

"We have demonstrated and worked very hard to show Shell that we would be an effective operator, we have a vision for this business," Kizilbash said. "And the vision, we take this asset to the next level... We will fund this through shareholder loans, we dont need to continue putting actual equity."

Shell Philippines Exploration (SPEX) owns 45% of shares and operates the Malampaya Gas. Another 45% of the project was owned by Chevron but was sold last year to UC Malampaya Philippines, another subsidiary of Udenna Holdings owned by Davao-based Chinese businessman Dennis Uy.

The remaining 10% is owned by the government through the Philippine National Oil Corporation (PNOC).

The Shell-Udenna deal is targeted to be completed by the end of 2021. This will give Udenna 90% control of the $4.5-billion Malampaya project

Gatchalian said the Department of Energy and the PNOC should have considered buying Shells shares since it has the power to match the offer of other parties.

"It seems to me that this asset is a good value in terms of its net present value," the senator said. "Then when it comes to payback, it's also attractive."

"And if all of the proceeds that will be used to purchase it will be financed, my logic dictates PNOC must be aggressive in terms of acquiring this portion," he added.

To date, Rozzano Briguez, president and CEO of PNOC Exploration Corporation, said they have already waived their right to match since they do not have the financial capacity to do so even with the help of government banks.

But Briguez said they have yet to give their go signal for the purchase to proceed since they are still looking at the documents submitted by Malampaya Energy XP to ensure that the company is technically, financially, and legally capable to operate the Malampaya Project.

Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi, meanwhile, assured that they will look into the capability of Udenna and its subsidiary in operating the Malampaya Project. He said the company has yet to submit all the required documents for evaluation.

Should the company manage to submit the pertinent documents, the Energy Department has 21 days to review it.

Did Shell exercise prudence?

Gatchalian also questioned Shells decision to award its stakes to Malampaya Energy XP.

SPEX General Manager Don Paulino explained that Udenna gave the best offer including absorbing their current employees and submitting a clear transition plan.

But the senator is not convinced that Shell exercised enough prudence in its decision. He said the deal must be carefully studied because Malampaya powers around 3.7 million households or half of residential consumers of Meralco and it also supplies more than 27% of Luzons energy needs.

Unaudited, incomplete documents

Meanwhile, Senator Nancy Binay questioned the DOE's approval of the transfer of Chevrons shares to UC Malampaya early this year.

She pointed out that based on the Energy Department's review, the company submitted unaudited and incomplete documents, which is not a good basis for a financial evaluation.

The DOE did not have an immediate explanation on the matter but promised to submit their reasons for approving it.

Given the issues, Gatchalian said the DOE should have not approved the Udenna-Chevron deal.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 15)  The countrys first single-dose COVID-19 vaccine shots will arrive earlier than expected, a Palace announcement on Thursday revealed.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said over 1.6 million doses of American firm Johnson & Johnsons COVID-19 vaccine doses are expected to arrive on July 16. The rest of the 3.2 million shots donated by the U.S. government through the COVAX facility are scheduled to reach the country a day later.

The Health Department previously announced a July 19 initial arrival date.

Two more shipments of vaccines are also set to be brought in on the same dates.

Over 1.15 million shots of British-Swedish manufacturer AstraZenecas COVID-19 vaccine purchased by both the private sector and local government units are expected to arrive on July 16.

Another 1.5 million procured doses of Chinese firm Sinovacs CoronaVac vaccine will also arrive on July 17, Roque added.

Just this afternoon, over 250,000 doses of U.S.-made Moderna vaccines entered the country.

The government has already administered over 14 million COVID-19 vaccine doses, latest government data showed. Over 10 million people already received their first shot, while more than 4 million have already been fully inoculated against the highly contagious disease.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 15)  Another batch of Moderna vaccines arrived in the country Thursday, adding to the supply of the government and private sector.

The Singapore Airlines plane carrying 250,800 of the US-made vaccines arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 at 1:15 p.m.

Of the latest batch, 194,400 were bought by the government, while 56,400 were paid for by the private sector.

The first shipment of 249,600 doses of Moderna vaccines arrived in the country on June 27, also split between the private and government sectors.

The Philippines in March signed a tripartite agreement with the American company for 20 million doses of its vaccine with 13 million shots secured by the government while the remaining seven million were ordered by the private sector.

In a report to President Rodrigo Duterte on July 12, vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr. said over 20 million doses of various brands of vaccines have been delivered to the country.

As of July 11, the Department of Health said over 13 million vaccine doses have been administered locally, with over 3 million people fully vaccinated.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 15)  Malacanang on Thursday confirmed President Rodrigo Duterte has approved the renewal of OceanaGolds contract for its Didipio mine in Nueva Vizcaya, drawing pushback from environmentalists.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the mineral production sharing agreement was signed by the Office of the Executive Secretary, allowing for another 25 years the operation of the multinational mining firm in the country.

The renewal is effective beginning June 2019, which was when its license previously expired.

Local communities, Roque said, stand to benefit from the decision to resume operations as it will generate jobs for the people of Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino.

Itong desisyon pong ito ay pagkilala na kinakailangan magkaroon ng mas marami pang trabaho ang ating kababayan sa panahon ng pandemya [This decision acknowledges the need for more jobs for Filipinos amid the pandemic], he said in his regular briefing.

In its statement on Wednesday, OceanaGold said its first priority is the hiring and retraining of its Philippine workforce.

Roque also noted that the agreement with the company was modified in favor of the communities where the operations are located.

He said from the original 1.5%, the gross revenue allocated to community development will become 3%. According to the mining company, the additional 1.5% will take the form of increased contributions to communities in the region and provincial development projects.

Under the renewal terms, OceanaGold is also required to list on the Philippine Stock Exchange at least 10% of the common shares in OceanaGold Philippines, Inc. (OGPI), or its Philippine operating subsidiary, within the next three years.

Mas maraming Pilipino ang pwedeng mag may-ari ng kompanyang ito [More Filipinos can buy shares and become part owners of the company], Roque explained.

The mandatory transfer of OGPIs principal office to either Nueva Vizcaya or Quirino within the next two years will also mean more profit for the local government due to business taxes, he added.

Environmentalists cry foul

According to OceanaGold, the Didipio gold and copper mine operates to the highest environmental and social standards and has been recognized as one of the most responsible in the country.

Environmental activists say otherwise.

The group Kalikasan People's Network for the Environment called the contract renewal illegal and destructive, saying the particular firm has a bloody history of human rights abuse.

With this, Duterte has condemned the people of Nueva Vizcaya to 25 more years of water depletion, agricultural losses, and human rights violations, it said.

Along with other allied organizations, Kalikasan announced it will challenge the decision in court. The groups are welcome to do this, Roque said, but he added that responsible mining is possible.

Hindi po natin papayagan na masira ang inang kalikasan natin, kaya po sisiguraduhin ng DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources) ang responsableng pagmimina, he said.

[Translation: We will not allow the degradation of our Mother Nature, thats why the DENR will ensure that responsible mining will be practiced.]
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 15)  Senator Manny Pacquiao on Thursday filed a resolution seeking a Senate investigation into the allegedly missing 10.4-billion worth of funds in the governments social amelioration program (SAP) intended to help the poor during the pandemic.

In the Proposed Senate Resolution No. 779, Pacquiao said there is an urgent need to look into this anomaly to untangle the web of corruption involving the Department of Social Welfare and Development as well as Starpay.

Starpay, an e-wallet application, is the electronic money issuer which the DSWD hired for the distribution of the second tranche of the SAP.

The lawmaker said Starpay was tasked to distribute cash payouts to 1.8 million beneficiaries amounting to 14 billion, but only 500,000 beneficiaries were able to install the app. He noted under the disbursement scheme, recipients could only receive or withdraw subsidy by downloading Starpay.

This means around 1.3 million projected beneficiaries were unable to download the said e-wallet application and therefore could not have electronically received through Starpay the subsidy amounting to Php 10.4 billion earmarked for them, the resolution read.

It added that DSWD records show, however, that the payouts have been completed.

Pacquiao first made the accusation in a briefing earlier this month. The department has already denied his claims, maintaining all funds were accounted for.

President Rodrigo Duterte also called Pacquiao punch-drunk for alleging such sizeable amount has gone missing and added that can never happen under his watch.

The senator earlier accepted the Presidents dare to expose corruption in the government after he claimed the Duterte administration is more corrupt than its predecessor.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 15)  Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan filed a measure on Thursday seeking an inquiry into the condition of fisherfolk said to be affected by the "ecological destruction, intrusion and persistent harassment" by Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea.

In Senate Resolution 777, Pangilinan cited actions by China in the past few years following the Hague arbitral ruling which asserted the Philippines' sovereign rights over the 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone that Beijing contests.

The most recent report was of May 2021 data from fishers' group Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (PAMALAKAYA) which stated that increased presence of Chinese vessels in Panatag Shoal resulted in fisherfolk's income dropping from 1,000 to 300 per trip  a 70% decrease.

"The protection of the rights and the livelihood of our fisherfolk, especially subsistence fishers, and ensuring food security are urgent tasks," said the resolution. "The government must stand up to China's aggression, with the welfare of our people at the forefront of every policy and decision."

President Rodrigo Duterte has repeatedly maintained that the only way to defend the country's waters was through a bloody war with China, which he stressed the Philippines cannot win.

Protecting Philippine territory from the East Asian giant was among the campaign promises of Duterte during his presidential run in 2016, but earlier this year he admitted that the vow was a "pure campaign joke" and that the arbitral win against China was a mere scrap of paper that may be thrown into a waste basket.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 16)  A male resident died from a fire that razed a two-story house in Ermita, Manila, the Bureau of Fire Protection says.

Aside from the casualty, the BFP said in its initial report that the incident affected some 15 families and caused damages with an estimated worth of 60,000.

The fire on Arquiza St. reached the first alarm at 1:04 a.m., then second alarm by 1:25 a.m., according to the bureau.

It was put out at 3:06 a.m, it added.

Authorities are still determining the cause of the fire.

This story will be updated.
The Coastal Point is a local newspaper published each Friday and distributed in the Bethany Beach, South Bethany, Fenwick Island, Ocean View, Millville, Dagsboro, Frankford, Selbyville, Millsboro, Long Neck and Georgetown, Delaware areas.
During its July meeting, Penn States Board of Trustees voted to raise tuition rates for all Penn State students for the 2021-2022 academic year.

The increase involves a 2.5% increase in tuition rates for in-state University Park students and a 2.75% increase in tuition for out-of-state and graduate students. In concrete terms, this involves an estimated increase of $224 for in-state students and a $481 increase in price for out-of-state and graduate students.

According to Penn State's President Eric Barron, who presented the increases as part of Penn States operating budget proposal, this makes the estimated cost of tuition per semester $9,184 for in-state students and $17,973 for out-of-state students.

Prior to this raise in tuition, Penn State had not seen a raise in tuition in three years, according to the Board of Trustees. Commonwealth campuses saw the same increases, though final tuition costs differ.

The new budget passed with a vote of 26-5.

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Paul Markowski was recently named a distinguished professor of meteorology and atmospheric science for his work at Penn State in the last 20 years. Yet, Markowski has been passionate about weather and tornadoes since elementary school.

A tornado outbreak hit May 31, 1985, in western Pennsylvania when I was in fifth grade, which intrigued me  and long story short  one weather book led to another and eventually, I got to study meteorology in college at Penn State, Markowski said.

Penn State had a meteorology professor job opening after Markowskis time in graduate school at The University of Oklahoma, which led him to return in 2001, and hes been here ever since.

Markowski said hes honored to receive the distinguished professor recognition and thankful to have people that helped him get to this point.

Colleagues and friends of mine put a lot of time into nominating me because its quite a difficult nomination process, Markowski said. For them to drop what they were doing to do this is beyond thoughtful, and theres so many faculty on campus that deserve this recognition as well.

Markowski said his research focuses on making an impact on when and where tornadoes will form at a specific time.

Tornadoes form from thunderstorms, when warm and humid air mix with cooler air temperatures higher in the atmosphere, according to Markowski. When the atmosphere is unstable and the wind speeds are higher, tornadoes form, he said.

The mechanics of that are complicated, but thats where the scientist comes in, Markowski said. The downdraft of wind allows for the tornadoes to come down to the ground and cause damage.

He also said he would want to see policy surrounding tornadoes changed in order to save lives.

Why aren't there multilingual warnings on televisions about tornadoes or requirements for buildings to have storm shelters? Markowski said. There is a lot we can do to survive tornadoes, and we dont have to have such a fatalistic view about them.

Markowski said there are a lot of misconceptions about tornadoes, which leads to more dangers surrounding them.

Tornadoes occur on almost every continent on Earth, and many people think that tornadoes cant happen here, which isnt true, Markowski said. The atmosphere is agnostic about where people are at and is governed by the laws of physics, which dont change regarding locations.

Markowski also said technology has been a huge help in tornado research and breakthroughs because there are some equations that cant be solved using pen and paper. His research has been able to program different technologies in order to create solutions to unsolvable problems, Markowski said.

Markowski said hes been able to chase storms to send technology into them, but he is not out there doing that every day.

This is not a one-man show  this research, Markowski said. This recognition is the fruit of being surrounded by fantastic students and collaborators because this was a team effort.

Markowski worked for David Stensrud, now head of Penn States department of meteorology and atmospheric science, through the National Science Foundations Research Experiences for Undergraduates summer program when he was a student at Penn State, Stensrud said.

Hes a great researcher and a great teacher, Stensrud said. Its always been a pleasure to interact with him and work with him.

Stensrud previously worked as a research meteorologist for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration at a research lab in Oklahoma, where the two were able to continue communicating.

Hes arguably the best researcher in our field looking at tornadoes and how they form, Stensrud said. Tornado formation is still a mystery, we know what they look like and how intense they get, but the processes to their actual formation are still unknown. Paul is leading in the effort to try and solve that mystery with technology.

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Markowski has advised Shawn Murdzek, a doctoral candidate in the department of meteorology and atmospheric science, since he was an undergraduate student, and they have worked together for the past seven years.

Its been really great working with him, Murdzek said. He has always been so passionate about tornadoes and will even text pictures of the storms to the group of students he advises.

Murdzek also said Markowskis textbook titled Mesoscale Meteorology in Midlatitudes helped fuel his fame, and its become the standard book in his field. Markowski co-wrote the textbook with Yvette Richardson.

Everyone knows Paul, Murdzek said. He has so many connections and is well-known and respected in our field, and whenever I tell someone that I work with Paul, they always have some story to tell about their time with him.

Murdzek said under Markowskis guidance, he has learned to work smarter, not harder and how to find the balance between work and his personal life.

Hes always there if I need him, with research assistance or general questions, Murdzek said. With research, he always guides me to the answers without telling me the answers and continues to challenge me.
Eating away at Pennsylvania forests each spring, gypsy moths  Lymantria dispar  have become a common sight in the states wooded areas. But this year, the outbreak of the invasive species has been particularly severe, causing large defoliation events in central and northern regions of the Keystone State.

The Entomological Society of America recently decided to refer to gypsy moths as Lymantria dispar  the insects taxonomical name  after discussing the derogatory meaning behind the common name and its effect on the Romani people.

Native to Eurasia, the moths were accidentally introduced to North America in 1869. Etienne Leopold Trouvelot, a French astronomer and entomologist living in Massachusetts, was attempting to make a heartier breed of silk worms.

Instead, some moths established themselves in nearby forests, and since then, Lymantria dispar have spread throughout the Northeast and into the Midwest regions of the United States as an invasive species, often existing in a boom and bust cycle of population.

Though they prefer oak trees, the moth caterpillars devour the leaves of many of Pennsylvanias most common trees. These include but are not limited to  apple, aspen, birch, hemlock and willow trees. If competition is particularly fierce, some moths may even consume the growth of conifers like pine and spruce trees.

We see these periodic cycles of high densities of gypsy moths every five to 10 years or so, Sarah Wurzbacher said. And we are entering one of those cycles in 2021.

Wurzbacher is a Penn State forest extension educator based out of Lycoming County, northeast of Centre County.

There is not much to do about the infestation at this point in the year, according to Wurzbacher. By mid-July, nearly all Lymantria dispar will have completed their metamorphosis and will no longer be a threat.

Though defoliation was heavy this summer, most trees should be able to recover, Wurzbacher said. It is only after multiple stress events, she said, that trees may face serious threats to their viability.

I would encourage people not to panic. Just watch your trees and observe them, Wurzbacher said. See how they recover and form your plans for future years. And think of other ways to alleviate stress on that tree in the future.

But there have been prevention efforts. The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has sprayed much of the threatened public land in central and northern Pennsylvania, including large areas of western and northern Centre County.

The aerial spray of Bacillus thuringiensis, a natural insecticide, and tebufenozide, an insect growth regulator, is completed via airplane and helicopter. Foresters and entomologists also rely on a fungus that can have deadly effects on moth larvae in the correct weather conditions, Wurzbacher said.

Ryan Reed, a natural resource program specialist with the Pennsylvania DCNR, said the department has not been able to contain the entire outbreak, though the cyclical outbreaks of moths are not entirely containable in the first place.

Reed said the DCNR does an annual survey of public lands to attempt to locate Lymantria dispar egg masses, which he said resemble sawdust on trees. The results of this survey then give the department an idea of where to spray and concentrate their efforts.

In 2020, Reed said no spraying was conducted after a survey found minimal egg masses in the state.

But the department is limited to public lands. Most land in Pennsylvania is owned and occupied by private owners, who must spray their own forests in the spring. Though the DCNR may be limited by POSTED signs, the moths do not pay much mind to the centuries of legal precedent surrounding private property, making it all the more difficult to root out an infestation.

[The moths] are just as apt to infest a private parcel as a public one, Reed said.

The department does, however, offer resources to private landowners on forest management and Lymantria dispar maintenance. On its website, the DCNR offers a guide to moth suppression and a list of licensed aerial spray applicators.

Mark Faulkenberry, a forest health supervisor with the DCNR who has a background in entomology, said he heard complaints from some nearby counties that were being hammered by defoliation events.

The Centre County-specific survey results showed high numbers of expected moths, which eventually came to fruition.

I can say populations were very high in Centre County, Faulkenberry said. I dont know what the future will hold for next year  but I would expect them to remain high.

Based on additional surveys and the normal route of Lymantria dispar cycles, 2022 is also expected by Wurzbacher, Reed, Faulkenberry and others to be a year of high moth populations and heavy defoliation.

The good news is the damage is pretty much already done for 2021, according to Faulkenberry. By this stage in their life cycle, the moths are no longer a threat to foliage in 2021, aside from laying eggs for next years caterpillars, he said.

I think its safe to say theyre going to stay. The populations arent going to crash yet, Faulkenberry said. We try to reduce their numbers and keep the damage that they inflict low enough until the virus and fungus take effect.

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DANVILLE - Jane Thurston Hahne, of Danville, passed in her home surrounded by loved ones on July 3, 2021 at the age of 92. Jane was born on March 11, 1929 in Boston, Massachusetts. Jane will forever be known for the diehard Boston Red Sox and Ohio State fan she was. Along with raising her se
Read the full article in the July/August 2021 digital edition. . .

Facial attractiveness heavily influences daily social interactions, as previously described.1 Individuals assess appearance unconsciously, with a high consensus for facial attractiveness within and between cultures  although with some variation.

In a recent study,2 for example, one ingredient supplier imaged the faces of women ages 20-69 years across China, France, India, Japan and South Africa, and asked both women and men within and across different ethnicities to rate their age, attractiveness and health. The results showed differences in the judgment of female faces depending not only on their ethnicity, but also on the ethnicity and gender of the observer. An older perceived age correlated negatively with attractiveness and health, as shown previously, but this work also provided evidence of cross-cultural variation, indicating plasticity in the perception of female facial appearance.2

Skin Radiance

Though cultures perceive differences in beauty, there is a similar biological cue. Apart from facial shape and expression, Japanese research3 has shown the radiance of facial skin to enhance attractiveness and convey positive impressions, such as the desire to compliment, a happy or feminine appearance, likableness, and looking healthyor tired, if lacking radiance.

In a Shiseido study,4 faces with radiant skin appeared to be more attractive compared with oily-shiny or matte skin, as objectively demonstrated by a brain scan and a questionnaire. Here, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) of the brain was used to determine human brain activity; in this case, the activation of the medial part of the orbitofrontal cortex (mOFC) related to facial attractiveness, modulated by skin reflection.

In the same work, psychological ratings scored attractiveness as highest for radiant skin, followed by oily-shiny and matte skin. Interestingly, although the radiance of the entire face achieved the best scores, the position of radiance on the face differentially improved impressions of health and femininity; cheek and T-zone radiance contributed to higher attractiveness. Radiant-cheeked faces also were seen as healthier but less feminine and less bright than the radiant T-zone faces.

An evolutionary perspective can shed some light on why radiant skin is perceived as more attractive. Radiance is produced by combined diffused and specular reflection. Skin demonstrating diffused reflection has the feature of decreased melanin, increased moisture, finer texture and good blood circulation. Skin in such a condition is interpreted as healthy. Past research has shown an association between facial attractiveness and the texture of skin as a cue for health and fertility, with healthy individuals holding a higher value as mates and thus being considered more attractive. Taken together, these properties can provide a better understanding of the value of skin care and base makeup.3, 4

. . .Read more in the July/August 2021 digital edition. . .

References
Yet instead of commenting on his important sentiments, it seems some of Biden's nearly 18 million Instagram followers had several thoughts on his post  namely, the fact that good 'ol Joe was pretty damn hot back in the day.

POTUS pulling out the thirst trap, it must be serious, wrote one commenter. Are your DMs open, Joe? inquired another in a not-so-subtle bid to replace Jill Biden as FSOTUS (First Spouse of the United States).

However, posting a steamy old pic is far from Biden's only attempt at sharing important information regarding Covid-19 safety measures to teens. For those too jaded and/or too politically aware to actually enjoy ogling a sexy Biden (sorry, mom!), the President has tapped the embodiment of zoomer angst to speak out on the importance of vaccination, none other than the Sour prom queen herself, Olivia Rodrigo. On Wednesday, the teen superstar took a break from her busy schedule likely consisting of promoting her incredible new album, Sour, appearing on Disney+'s High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, and inadvertently pissing off Courtney Love to meet with the president as well as Covid-19 medical adviser, Dr. Anthony Fauci, and share a few words of wisdom with her peers.

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"I am beyond honored and humbled to be here today to help spread the message about the importance of youth vaccination," Rodrigo said during a White House press briefing. "I'm in awe of the work President Biden and Dr. Fauci have done and was happy to help lend my support to this important initiative. It's important to have conversations with friends and family members encouraging all communities to get vaccinated, and actually get to a vaccination site, which you can do more easily than ever before, given how many sites we have and how easy it is to find them at vaccines.gov."
On today's installment of old internet throwbacks approximately no one asked for, it seems Clippy, our favorite aggressively altruistic anthropomorphic paperclip may soon rise from Microsoft's vast graveyard of defunct features to annoy us once again. On Wednesday, the tech company took to social media to propose a threat bargain for the good people of Twitter  if a post depicting a new, illustrated version of Clippy garnered more than 20,000 likes, the company would replace the paperclip emoji in Microsoft 365 with Clippy.

Despite Clippy's widespread infamy, the post quickly went viral, surpassing the set goal of 20,000 likes. However, Microsoft has stayed intentionally vague on whether the world's most annoying early aughts digital assistant will make a not-so triumphant return or if the post was merely for clips and giggles. Shortly after the tweet surpassed its like benchmark, a fan reached out to the company to ask if they were serious about the icon's return, to which they replied a very ominous wait and find out.
Kathleen Marie Gilley, 71, was born to Clark and Laura Wilder Gilley on Oct. 3, 1949, in East Moline, IL, and passed away in Crossville on July 14, 2021. She was a homemaker supporting her husband in his endeavors and enjoyed raising her family. She is survived by her partner of 30 years, Ca
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BOSTON (AP)  The State Department will offer rewards up to $10 million for information leading to the identification of anyone engaged in foreign state-sanctioned malicious cyber activity, including ransomware attacks, against critical U.S. infrastructure. A task force set up by the White House will coordinate efforts to stem the ransomware scourge.

The Biden administration is also out with a website, stopransomware.gov, that offers the public resources for countering the threat and building more resilience into networks, a senior administration official told reporters.

In another move Thursday, the Treasury Department's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network will work with banks, technology companies and others on better anti-money-laundering efforts for cryptocurrency and more rapid tracing of ransomware proceeds, which are paid in virtual currency.

Officials are hoping to seize more extortion payments in ransomware cases, as the FBI did in recouping most of the $4.4 million ransom paid by Colonial Pipeline in May.

The rewards come from the State Department's Rewards for Justice program. It will offer a tips-reporting mechanism on the dark web to protect sources who might identify cyber attackers and/or their locations, and reward payments may include cryptocurrency, the agency said in a statement.

The administration official would not comment on whether the U.S. government had a hand in Tuesday's online disappearance of REvil, the Russian-linked gang responsible for a July 2 supply chain ransomware attack that crippled well over 1,000 organizations globally by targeting Florida-based software provider Kaseya. Ransomware scrambles entire networks of data, which criminals unlock when they get paid.

Cybersecurity experts say REvil may have decided to drop out of sight and rebrand under a new name, as it and several other ransomware gangs have done in the past to try to throw off law enforcement.

Another possibility is that Russian President Vladimir Putin actually heeded President Joe Biden's warning of repercussions if he didn't rein in ransomware criminals, who enjoy safe harbor in Russia and allied states.

That seemed improbable, however, given Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov's statement to reporters Wednesday that he was unaware of REvil sites disappearing.

"I don't know which group disappeared where, he said. He said the Kremlin deems cybercrimes unacceptable and meriting of punishment, but analysts say they have seen no evidence of a crackdown by Putin.

The White House updated lawmakers Wednesday on the administrations response to the recent rash of high-profile ransomware attacks, a threat it has deemed a national security priority.

Sen. Angus King, an independent from Maine, said he was impressed with the thoroughness with which they are confronting this issue, particularly with outreach to the private sector.

___

Associated Press writer Daria Litvinova in Moscow and Alan Suderman in Richmond, Virginia, contributed to this report.
Sweating in his black jacket under a brilliant spring sun, Keith J. DuPerry, 40, waited in line on the New Haven Green.

Destination: FEMAs first-in-the-nation COVID-19 mass-vaccination trailer, administered by Griffin Hospital of Derby.

Earlier that morning, DuPerry had taken a bus from the sober house where he lives to an addiction treatment center downtown. The buzz of activity on the Green  party tents and comfortable seating, trailers custom shrink-wrapped with photos of smiling, diverse, shot-giving caregivers and grateful patients  got him thinking.

He returned to the Green after lunch.

I was sitting on a bench, trying to figure out if I should get the vaccine. Somebody was nearby, listening to gospel music. I took that as a sign that this was meant to be. I thought, this is a new beginning.

By days end, DuPerry was among about 625 people vaccinated at the Griffin-run clinic. Hundreds more received shots there the next day  all in the shadow of the states largest hospital, Yale New Haven, the monolith about six blocks west.

During the darkest days of the pandemic, Griffin Hospital stepped up to reach many of Connecticuts most neglected communities. Even as the hospital was losing millions of dollars a month, Griffin agreed to test nursing home residents and employees on-site, and later to administer vaccines.

When prisoners and guards fell through the cracks of care, Griffin came to the state Department of Corrections aid. When the state Department of Public Health struggled to bring vaccines to the most inaccessible  those with developmental needs and those struggling with addiction  Griffin seemingly overnight created and staffed a mobile health fleet 36 vehicles strong to do the job. All the while, tripling its ICU capacity and continuing to treat the sickest patients at its 160-bed hospital in Derby.

Theyve been a really strong, important partner with the state throughout the pandemic, said Dr. Deidre Gifford, acting DPH commissioner.

Other health organizations came and receded during the pandemic, she said, but Griffin brought willingness, staff and, frankly, competency to the states efforts. Theyve been very good at this work.

In many ways, COVID-19 may have sparked a new beginning for the hospital itself.

Sounding the alarm

Griffin Hospital sits in the center of Derby, tucked in the elbow between the Housatonic and Naugatuck rivers. Used-car dealerships, grocery stores and fast-food outlets pepper the neighborhood nearby. About 13 percent of Derbys 12,500 or so residents live in poverty, with an average per capita income in 2019 of $31,936, according to the U.S. Census.

At the turn of the 20th century, the lower Naugatuck River Valley was a bustling brass manufacturing center, and community leaders in Derby, the states smallest city at just under 5.5 square miles, started fundraising to build The Derby Hospital. A local industrialist, George Griffin, whod made his fortune turning animal horns into buttons, bequeathed some riches to the effort, and Griffin Hospital was born. The first patient at the 24-bed hospital was a brass worker from Ansonia.

Griffin Hospital served the Valley community during its most challenging moments: two trolley accidents; the flu pandemic of 1918; and one of the worst disasters in Connecticut history, the flood of 1955, in which 87 people died. During that time, many of the states hospitals were gobbled up by big health care systems. Not Griffin, though. Of the states 28 acute-care hospitals, according to the Connecticut Office of Health Strategy, Griffin is one of seven that remain independent.

The pandemic threatened them all.

In January 2020, two months before COVID-19 reached Connecticut, Griffins chief medical officer, Dr. Frederick Browne, didnt like what he was seeing. Browne, an epidemiologist and expert in pandemic flu, predicted to Patrick Charmel, Griffins president and CEO, that the virus could reach Connecticut in weeks. Charmel, who staff members say is a hands-on leader unusual in the upper echelons of health care administration, established a command center on-site, and his team met daily.

Without the deep pockets of bigger hospitals, but with a nimbleness that many lack, the Griffin crew got creative. Before the first case hit Derby, local businesses donated ventilators, and Griffin refurbished CPAP machines to double as backups. Griffin retrofitted a decommissioned pod of 20 beds and turned it into a negative pressure unit, so that clean air could enter and circulate  with infected air filtered and transported outside  without contaminating the rest of the hospital. The operations director sourced enough personal protective equipment outside of normal hospital channels to last through the pandemic. The engineering team constructed a box out of Plexiglas to help turn critically ill patients to a prone position.

Because we started this before anyone else, we were able to locate everything we needed for our ICU before we had one case, Browne said.

Dr. Marya Chaisson, a pulmonary care expert who directs the ICU at Griffin, said, Every time I went down to the command center, [Charmel] was down there, dealing with every problem. I remember Pat working there, waiting for the Plexiglas to dry. He was not afraid to get his hands dirty. Id never seen anything like it. It was so inspiring. At so many other hospitals, administrators were just gone, working from home, nowhere to be found.

The rest of Griffin grew eerily quiet.

People werent seeking all of the outpatient services like they had, said Jim Moylan, a former CFO at Griffin, Bristol and Waterbury hospitals. With a small community hospital, a lot of the profit they get comes from their outpatient services, things like mammography and lab tests, or from surgeries that are elective, like a knee replacement.

Trips to the emergency room, which had exceeded 32,000 in 2019, as well as imaging procedures, clinical visits and more, added to Griffin Healths $223 million operating revenue in 2019, according to the Connecticut Office of Health Strategy. The Connecticut Hospital Association warned that hospitals could lose as much as $400 million a month in revenue. A report from the American Hospital Association predicted a dire and unsustainable outlook.

Suddenly, said Browne, We got slammed! The ED was full of COVID patients. All of a sudden, 40 percent of our patients are COVID. In that first wave, there were a lot of very sick people. Once we were in the thick of things, you had to assume everybody had COVID-19. But we were ready for it. The entire ICU unit we converted to a COVID unit.

Brownes job was to keep the staff safe. Chaissons was to care for the most critical patients. Charmels was to keep the hospital afloat. Without its money-makers, Griffin expected to lose $6 million a month. The hospital redeployed 70 staff members to tackle the COVID-19 surge  and furloughed 99 others. Everyone, from management on down, took a pay cut of up to 20 percent. The pandemic threatened to take down the entire community around and including the hospital.

Game-changer

Before large-scale testing sites existed in Connecticut, Griffin constructed a drive-through site in a parking lot. They staffed it seven days a week and told test-takers to quarantine until results came in. While other hospitals suspended procedures indefinitely, Griffins testing enabled procedures to resume faster. That became a game-changer for us, Browne said.

Inside the hospital, patients filled the ICU from nearby nursing homes. To stem the spread, Charmel brought testing to the nursing homes despite losing money on each test. In June 2020, before Gov. Ned Lamont ordered all nursing home staff and residents in Connecticut to undergo weekly COVID-19 testing, DPH officials called Charmel.

They said, We heard youre doing lab testing, Charmel recalled. I said we have 10 [nursing homes]. They said, Can you do a few more? Within a month, we were doing 124 nursing homes [out of the states 209]  every resident and every staff member weekly. We started drive-through in five locations. At the height of testing, we were doing about 35,000 people a week.

All that testing required equipment, staffing and supplies. When the sterile Viral Transport Media used to transport all those swab samples couldnt be sourced, Charmel had Griffins internal lab develop its own. When the wait for lab results lagged to a week or longer, Charmel bought processing equipment and expanded Griffins in-house test team. The hospital was hiring again.

DPH Acting Commissioner Gifford said, They helped us with state employee testing, Department of Corrections, Department of Developmental Services, Department of Addiction. They did over 15,000 tests for state employees. By August, a million Connecticut residents had been tested. The same month, the hospital received $8.7 million in federal relief from the CARES Act high impact funding with the help of U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-3, on top of $4.6 million secured earlier from the CARES Act.

By December, vaccines became available. Charmel and crew transformed a vacant building in Shelton into a mass-vaccination center. I was saying, We can do this, and we can do that. They must have been saying, Are you crazy? Its New Years Eve! Charmel said. He was leading the way, though, working alongside staff as 2020 ended. Griffin vaccinated more than 1,000 Connecticut residents there on opening day in January.

Community Reach

By spring, Griffins fleet of vaccine vans, staffed with 147 new hires, zigged and zagged across Connecticut, administering up to 100 vaccines each per day in underserved communities. They set up shop in Walmart parking lots, high school gymnasiums, recreation centers, church halls. State insurance marketplace Access Health had canvassed the neighborhoods, searching for people who couldnt otherwise access vaccines, and the DPH sent Griffins vans in response.

We have a lot of people living in substandard housing in our state. During COVID-19, who do you think died? People dying were disproportionately in the Black and brown community. Thats why we have this mobile program, Charmel said.

Its a curious dichotomy, working to improve community health while running a hospital. The healthier a community, the fewer clinical services members of that community will need, and the less revenue the hospital generates. But community care is at the center of Griffins mission. Charmel, who graduated from the Yale School of Public Health and started working at Griffin as a college intern more than 40 years ago, believes that prevention efforts in compromised communities should be part of a hospitals mandate. Griffin runs the states only preventive medicine training program, a four-year residency for doctors that combines internal medicine with preventive medicine.

During the pandemic, the community inside the hospital seemed to grow stronger. In hospital interviews and phone conversations, at testing sites and vaccination pop-ups, many Griffin employees repeated a version of something theyd heard Charmel say during lockdown: Twenty years from now, people are going to ask what you did during COVID. Were you home on the sidelines? Or were you doing something about it?

Scenes of survival

Today at Griffin, the negative pressure pod has been dismantled, the tubing scattered like giant Slinkys around the hospital roof. The command center is a memory now. But Griffins presence extends beyond the building and beyond the Valley.

Griffin has been doing incredible things all over the whole state during COVID, DeLauro said. Now, everybody knows who they are.

Money continues to trickle in. In May 2021, FEMA reimbursed the hospital $2.078 million for the pod and the testing tent. Earlier in the year, Lamont gave Griffin $1.758 million out of $40 million granted to hospitals statewide.

At the hospital, elective procedures are returning. Chaisson, who spent many nights attempting to sleep on the green chair in her office only to chase away the horrifying, frightening events of the day, sees her sleep apnea patients again.

In the cafeteria, employees line up at the wood-burning stove for whole-grain pizza. Visitors are ducking into the meditation center again. Health care workers, most of whom were rehired after the furlough, congregate outside in the lush green courtyards. In a year of so much death and loss, the perennials have returned, and so have many of the people.

So far, anyway, Griffin has survived.

This story was reported under a partnership with the Connecticut Health I-Team (c-hit.org), a nonprofit news organization dedicated to health reporting.
While Connecticuts vaccination efforts are flagging, a once sought-after vaccine from Johnson & Johnson was hit with another setback this week as Pfizer forges ahead with plans for a booster of its widely used shot that some state health experts say may not be necessary.

The Johnson & Johnson vaccine, the only single-dose option, was seen early on as a powerful tool to reach those hesitant toward vaccines, but the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended its warning about the vaccine, saying a small number of people developed Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare neurological disorder, within 42 days of receiving the shot.

The Connecticut Department of Public Health stresses that the benefits of receiving any of the available COVID vaccines far outweigh any side effects or other rare outcomes. The key to putting COVID behind us once and for all is vaccination, DPH said Tuesday in a statement regarding the new Johnson & Johnson vaccine warning.

Connecticuts use of Johnson & Johnson dropped substantially after federal regulators briefly paused its use in June while it reviewed whether the vaccine was connected with a rare blood-clotting disorder that led to several deaths.

The waning demand for the vaccine hit a high point last month when state officials said 75,000 doses were in storage and set to expire. The state had said there were no plans to order more from the federal government.

On Tuesday, the state reported a positivity rate for COVID-19 tests administered Saturday, Sunday and Monday crept up to 0.97 percent. Hospitalizations remained steady at 35 patients statewide.

While confidence in the safety of the Johnson & Johnson vaccines has waned, Pfizer and its German partner, BioNTech, seek to introduce a booster to its two-dose vaccine, which has been used to inoculate hundreds of thousands of Connecticut residents.

On Monday, U.S. regulators and scientists met with representatives from Pfizer to hear the companys case for booster shots, The New York Times reported. The Times reported people on the call said boosters, if approved, might go to residents of nursing homes, who were among the earliest recipients of vaccines.

While no decisions were made on whether a booster will get federal approval, top Connecticut health experts questioned if evidence supported the need.

There are two reasons to get a booster shot, said Dr. Ulysses Wu, system director of infectious diseases at Hartford Healthcare. One is whether or not our immunity holds from either natural COVID illness or from the vaccine itself, and No. 2, due to the presence of the variants.

He noted that Pfizer has two interests when it comes to promoting booster shots. The first is protecting public health, but they also have a business interest as well, Wu said in a phone interview Tuesday.

Wu said booster shots might be necessary, but theres not a lot of science to say that its going to make a difference.

He said the state will pivot depending on how the FDA and governor dictate, but what distinguishes Connecticut is its high vaccination rate.

Were doing better than a lot of other states, especially in the South, he said.

Some countries are already forging ahead with boosters. On Monday, Israel began administering third doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to some people with compromised immune systems.

The latest figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that 61.9 percent of all Connecticut residents were fully vaccinated.

Last week, Pfizer and BioNTech said early results from its booster shot trial showed people who received a third dose of its vaccine developed resistance to the wild type and beta variant of the disease five to 10 times higher than people who received two doses.

The companies claimed a third dose may be needed 6 to 12 months after individuals are fully vaccinated  because the vaccines efficacy wanes over time and to combat the rise of variants of the disease.

Based on the totality of the data they have to date, Pfizer and BioNTech believe that a third dose may be beneficial to maintain the highest levels of protection, the companies said in a joint statement.

We need clarity on this topic, said Dr. Rick Martinello, medical director of hospital epidemiology and infection control at Yale New Haven Hospital. He said data should be available in the next few months showing how long antibodies last in people who are vaccinated, and breakthrough cases in vaccinated people relative to the timing of when they got vaccinated.

Determining whether immunity in vaccinated people wanes over time can be difficult, he said, because the amount of disease circulating in the community can vary wildly.

Our risk, even if we're behaving exactly the same, our risk is very different this time of the year ... compared with where we were three months ago, he said.

The push for a booster comes as highly transmissible variants of the virus are circulating across the country and in Connecticut. In recent weeks, concern has fallen on the delta variant, first found in India and now spreading in Connecticut.

Pfizer and BioNTech said they have developed an updated version of their vaccine that targets the spike protein found in the delta variant, which now comprises a majority of U.S. cases.

Pfizer plans to ask the FDA for emergency-use authorization for a third dose in August, the Associated Press reported.

But U.S. regulators pushed back against the assumption that a third dose will be necessary.

Americans who have been fully vaccinated do not need a booster shot at this time, a joint statement from the Centers for Disease Control and Food and Drug Administration said.

The statement said regulators take into account data from pharmaceutical companies, but that is not the only information they consider.

We are prepared for booster doses if and when the science demonstrates that they are needed, the statement said.

Staff writer Jordan Fenster contributed to this story.
BILLINGS, Mont. (AP)  President Joe Bidens pick to oversee U.S. lands in the Western states stonewalled a 1989 investigation into the sabotage of an Idaho timber sale, a former federal law enforcement officer alleged in a letter released Thursday.

The former U.S. Forest Service special agent claims that as a 23-year-old environmental studies graduate student, Tracy Stone-Manning was suspected in the plot to insert metal spikes into trees in the Clearwater National Forest to prevent them from being cut down but refused to cooperate with investigators.

Two of Stone-Mannings friends were convicted of the sabotage more than four years later. She received immunity from prosecutors and testified against them, according to court documents and interviews with people involved in the case.

She was never charged with any crimes and has spoken publicly in the years since about her role retyping and mailing a letter to authorities on behalf of one of the convicted men that said people could get hurt if loggers tried to cut trees in the sabotaged area.

Stone-Manning has maintained she wasnt knowingly a direct target of the investigation.

She and other University of Montana students and a faculty member were subpoenaed to submit hair and fingerprint samples to a grand jury in the months after the spiking, according to news accounts of the case and Associated Press interviews with the faculty member and two of the former students.

The faculty member and former students said investigators appeared to be casting a wide net without direct evidence they were directly involved.

The two men convicted in 1993 were not implicated until a former girlfriend of one of them  not Stone-Manning  provided details to authorities in 1992.

Wyoming Republican Sen. John Barrasso released the letter Thursday from retired investigator Michael Merkley after pushing for weeks for Stone-Mannings nomination to be withdrawn. Barrasso, the top Republican on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, said in a statement that Merkley's letter confirms that Tracy Stone-Manning lied when she told the panel that to her knowledge, she had never been the target in a criminal investigation.

The Biden administration has continued to back Stone-Manning  a former top aide to former Montana Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock  despite the strong GOP opposition to her nomination to direct the Interior Department's Bureau of Land Management. The agency oversees energy production, grazing, logging and other activities across almost a quarter-billion acres of public lands, primarily in the West.

Interior spokesperson Melissa Schwartz said the department "stands by Tracy's statements and written submissions" to the committee.

In her latest responses to questions from lawmakers, released by the department Wednesday, Stone-Manning said she had no involvement in the 1989 tree spiking other than mailing the letter, which she said she did so no one would get hurt.

She said she had been frightened of one of the men convicted in the case but ultimately stepped forward to keep him in jail after he assaulted his former girlfriend.

I recall being disturbed with the whole situation and frightened of him; I wanted nothing to do with it and did not want anyone to get hurt, she wrote.

Merkley alleged in his letter that Stone-Manning was sent a federal grand jury target letter informing her that she was going to be indicted after the former girlfriend told Merkley in 1992 that Stone-Manning helped plan the tree spiking.

While she did provide testimony against her co-conspirators, she still was not forthcoming about the role she herself played in this case, the letter said.

However, the lead prosecutor on the case, former U.S. Assistant Attorney George Breitsameter, told AP that he could not recall Stone-Manning being sent a such a letter.

If she was, it would surprise me, he said. That's not the first thing you do. You want them to come in and testify.

Breitsameter declined to say if Stone-Manning was specifically targeted as a suspect and said that just because someone is being investigated by law enforcement doesnt mean prosecutors are on board. By the time of the trial, he added, everybody was satisfied with the convictions of the two people in the case.

A former colleague of Merkleys at the Forest Service  who later became friends with Stone-Manning  said he became a suspect in the tree spiking after his name showed up in a diary at a house in Missoula that investigators searched. Bruce Farling, now an environmental consultant, said Merkley had conducted a giant fishing expedition in the case and he didnt think the retired investigators latest allegations were credible.

One of the University of Montana environmental students subpoenaed along with Stone-Manning, Jake Kreilick, said he believes authorities were trying to intimidate him and other environmental activists at the school as they investigated the tree spiking.

They were trying to to get us to back down. But part of it was real because they did want to find out who spiked those trees, said Kreilick, who was never charged.

He said Stone-Manning played no direct role in the tree spiking but was caught in the middle of it when asked to mail the warning letter.

Prior to her nomination, Stone-Manning worked most recently at the National Wildlife Federation. Her advocacy for preservation of public lands contrasts sharply with the pro-development policies at the bureau during the Trump administration that were strongly supported by Republicans including Barrasso.

The vote on her nomination has not been scheduled. It would take every Senate Republican plus at least one Democratic lawmaker to block her confirmation in the evenly divided chamber.

___

Follow Brown on Twitter: @MatthewBrownAP
OLD SAYBROOK  With as many as a third of residents struggling to afford housing, town officials approved a plan Tuesday to increase stocks of cheaper housing units over the next five years.

The plan, which relies heavily on increasing the number of accessory dwelling units  also known as granny pods  as well as calls for new development and denser zoning, is non-binding on the town. Adoption of a five-year housing plan is required under a state law passed in 2017.

Old Saybrook, like many small Connecticut towns, has long struggled to maintain an inadequate supply of affordable housing. According to a list compiled by state regulators, just 2.91 percent of the towns housing was considered affordable last year.

None of the surrounding towns at the mouth of the Connecticut River  sometimes referred to as the Golden Triangle  came close to meeting the states benchmark of 10 percent affordable housing that allows towns to bypass an appeals process if they deny permits for new affordable housing.

The five-year plan approved by the Board of Selectmen on Tuesday did not set a new goal for the ratio of affordable housing, and officials said the town is unlikely to meet the states standard any time soon.

Ten percent is a number that is unlikely to be reached, I dont want to say ever, but ever, Old Saybrook First Selectman Carl Fortuna said.

Fortuna said Wednesday that the most realistic option to add affordable housing in the near future would be through the development of apartment complexes with some units set aside as affordable.

Our goal is to increase the number of units that are affordable in a way that is fitting to our community, he said.

The town received a $15,000 grant from the Connecticut Department of Housing to complete the five-year plan with another $5,000 contributed by the town, Fortuna said. The plan was drafted by Tyche Planning and Policy Group of West Hartford.

Barriers to affordable housing, according to the draft developed by Tyche, include zoning rules that prevent single-family homes built after World War II from being converted into multi-family units, as well as a general lack of higher-density developments.

Old Saybrook has made some improvements to its affordable housing stock in recent years, the plan noted, such as the building of the Saybrook Station Apartments, which included 38 affordable units. While the population of Old Saybrook is expected to decline in the coming years, John Guszkowski, the co-founder of Tyche, said the population is also growing older and downsizing, limiting the market growth of affordable units.

What that may mean is that many of the new housing units coming online, such as Saybrook Station, are likely to be filled with older residents such as retirees and empty-nesters looking to downsize from current larger, single-family homes, while the homes they leave behind will be filled by older, smaller households with fewer children, the plan approved by the Board of Selectmen stated.

Altogether, research from Tyche found that roughly one-third of homeowners in Old Saybrook were either moderately or severely cost-burdened by housing expenses, meaning they spent more than 30 percent of their income on mortgages, taxes, heating and maintenance. Nearly two-thirds of renters in Old Saybrook were cost-burdened.

The firm also surveyed several hundred Old Saybrook esidents while drafting the affordable housing plan, and reported that 59 percent said the towns existing housing stock is not adequate to meet market demands.

Folks in Old Saybrook, particularly those that answered the survey, are very aware of the problematic nature of some of the housing circumstances in Old Saybrook, and the cost burden, Guszkowski said.

The plan also recommends that Old Saybrook take advantage of a new state law to encourage the development of detached accessory units at single-family homes. The law, an attempt to alleviate Connecticuts status as one of the most segregated states, was passed after several provisions were removed from a more expansive housing reform effort.

Fortuna expressed concerns that homeowners would develop detached units as short-term rentals for vacationers, rather than as affordable housing.

Chris Costa, the town planner, said those concerns could be alleviated by drafting regulations that restrict detached units from being rented out for short-term stays. Guszkowski said the new state law would allow such regulation.
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NORWALK  A city man who authorities said fired a gun at a Bridgeport police officer last year has been sentenced to five years in jail.

David Burden, 40, was sentenced Wednesday by Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 60 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.

On April 21, he pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a felon.

His charge stems from his arrest by Bridgeport police on Sept. 30, 2020. Federal prosecutors said Burden fired a gun that day in the area of Kossuth and Nichols streets in the Park City. During his arrest, investigators seized a loaded 9mm Smith & Wesson semi-automatic pistol, prosecutors said.

Police in Bridgeport said Burden fired three shots at Officer William Franco while the officer was on patrol near that intersection. Burden walked toward the officers patrol car and opened fire, police said. A police report said Franco spun his patrol car around, pointed his duty-issued weapon out the window of his cruiser and demanded Burden drop his gun.

Burden eventually complied and got on the ground. Franco held Burden at gunpoint until backup units arrived.

The Norwalk man has been detained since his arrest.

The state case is still pending. Burden is next expected in court on July 30 on charges of criminal attempt at first-degree assault, criminal attempt at interfering with an officer causing death or serious injury, criminal possession of a firearm, possession of a pistol without a permit and first-degree criminal mischief. Court records show he has pleaded not guilty to the state charges.

Prosecutors said Burdens criminal history includes multiple state felony convictions and federal convictions in 2003 for crack cocaine distribution, racketeering, racketeering conspiracy and committing a violent crime in aid of racketeering offenses.

Federal law prohibits a person previously convicted of a felony offense from possessing a gun or ammunition.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP)  Former White House press secretary Sarah Sanders' campaign on Thursday said she had raised another $4.2 million for her bid for Arkansas governor.

Sanders' campaign said the latest figures over the past three months mean she has raised $9 million total since launching her bid in January for the state's top office.

Sanders campaign reported having $6.3 million cash on hand at the end of June and spent $1.8 million during the quarter. She is running against Attorney General Leslie Rutledge for the Republican Party's nomination.

Rutledge raised more than $216,000 during the quarter and had $1.1 million cash on hand. Rutledge has raised $1.4 million total since launching her bid last year. She reported spending more than $125,000 during the quarter.

The majority of Sanders' contributions so far have come from out of state, while more than $3 million has come from nearly 9,000 Arkansas donors, her campaign said.

Its clear Arkansans want a leader who will defend our freedom and stand up to the radical left, grow our economy and create jobs, and increase access to quality education and opportunity for a brighter, more prosperous future," she said in a statement.

Meantime, Rutledge said the majority of her contributions came from in-state sources.

I am always humbled by the continued financial support from voters all across the state of Arkansas and am extremely proud that 80% of my donors are Arkansans, Rutledge said.

Four Democrats are also running for governor in the predominantly Republican state. One of the Democratic hopefuls, Chris Jones, last month said he raised more than $575,000 in the two weeks after he launched his campaign with a video that gained national attention.

The candidates are running to succeed Republican Gov. Asa Hutchinson, who is barred by term limits from seeking reelection next year.

Sanders left the White House as former President Donald Trumps chief spokeswoman in 2019. She launched her bid for governor in January with an online video that prominently featured the former president and echoed his rhetoric, promising to fight the radical left in the solidly red state.
JOHANNESBURG (AP)  In one of the largest deployments of soldiers since the end of white minority rule, 25,000 South African troops began taking up positions Thursday to help quell weeklong riots sparked by the imprisonment of former President Jacob Zuma. At least 117 people have been killed in the violence, authorities said.

The government said 10,000 soldiers were on the streets by Thursday morning patrolling alongside police, and the South African National Defence Force had also called up all of its reserve force of 12,000 troops.

In a show of strength, a convoy of more than a dozen armored personnel carriers brought soldiers into Gauteng province, South Africa's most populous, which includes the largest city, Johannesburg, and the capital, Pretoria.

Buses, trucks, airplanes and helicopters were also being used to move the large deployment of troops to trouble spots in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal province that have seen violence in mainly poor areas.

The unrest erupted last week after Zuma began serving a 15-month sentence for contempt of court for refusing to comply with a court order to testify at a state-backed inquiry investigating allegations of corruption while he was president from 2009 to 2018.

Protests in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal quickly escalated into a spree of theft in township areas, although it has not spread to South Africas seven other provinces, where police are on alert.

More than 2,200 people have been arrested for theft and vandalism and 117 people have died, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, acting minister in the presidency said Thursday. Many were trampled to death in chaotic stampedes when shops were being looted, according to police.

These are not demonstrations. This is economic sabotage and we are investigating with a view to apprehending the instigators, Ntshavheni said at a briefing Thursday. One person has been arrested and 11 others are under surveillance for inciting and planning the unrest, she said.

The armed patrols have brought stability to Gauteng, authorities said. Army troops stood guard at the large Maponya mall in Soweto, which was one of the few retail centers not badly hit by the rampage but remained closed.

Volunteer groups cleaned up shattered glass and debris from shops that had been stormed and looted in Johannesburg's Soweto, Alexandra and Vosloorus areas.

I spoke to some of the guys who are unemployed in my area to come and help. The mayor supported us with transport to get here. We came here with two buses, said George Moswetsa, a resident of Vosloorus in eastern Johannesburg who was helping to clean up a mall that had been trashed.

The unrest, however, continued Thursday in KwaZulu-Natal, Zuma's home province. There were renewed attacks on shopping centers and several factories and warehouses were smoldering after being hit by arson attacks.

Police discovered more than 10,000 rounds of ammunition in Durban on Wednesday night, which Minister of Police Bheki Cele said belonged to people who were instigating the violent riots in the province.

The continued violence in KwaZulu-Natal appears well-planned, said South African analyst William Gumede.

In KwaZulu-Natal, its well-coordinated, well-funded. If you look at it, strategic commercial hubs were blocked, strategic roads were blocked at really key points. It was very organized, said Gumede, chairman of the Democracy Works Foundation, a group supporting governance in Africa.

Zuma, throughout his political career, including his nine years as president, acquired many allies in South Africas military and security services who were reluctant to respond to the violence in his home province, Gumede said.

The arson, the looting and then the burning of malls, the burning of warehouses, I mean, that indicates a really strategic destruction of the economy of KwaZulu-Natal, said Gumede. Theres a whole lot of organization behind that.

Soldiers and police worked to reopen the N2 and N3 toll highways, which have been closed for days as burned-out trucks blocked the roads. The highways are important transport routes carrying fuel, food and other goods to all parts of the country and their prolonged closure threatens to cause shortages of essential goods.

The rail line to the strategic Indian Ocean ports of Durban and Richard's Bay was also closed by the unrest, the state-owned transportation company, Transnet said. The 688-kilometer (427-mile) rail line ferries hundreds of tons of goods weekly to the ports, including vehicles, gold ore, aviation fuel, petrol, wheat and citrus fruit. The goods are then shipped to markets in Asia, Europe, and the United States.

Security forces increased their presence in the Durban suburb of Phoenix, where the riots caused racial tensions to flare. The predominantly Indian residents of Phoenix had been patrolling their area against the unrest and are accused of shooting Black people suspected of being rioters.

Lives have been lost. The communities have a standoff and are in a bad way because it is the Indian community and the neighboring communities, who are African, Cele told a news conference in Phoenix, where he said 15 people had been killed.

Gumede said the way forward for South Africa is to prosecute the perpetrators, both those that stole property and those who may have instigated the violence.

This is going to be very important," the analyst said. First to restore the rule of law in South Africa and to prevent impunity, because if people can get away with looting without being prosecuted, they will do it again. ... So its going to be very important. I think we may have to set up special courts.

In neighboring Zimbabwe, the police issued a warning Thursday against people getting goods stolen from South Africa.

With sad events happening in South Africa, the Zimbabwe Republic Police will not hesitate to arrest anyone who has received or is in possession of stolen goods from South Africa, the police statement said, advising people to have receipts for verification that goods were purchased legally. A criminal in South Africa is a criminal in Zimbabwe."

The largest deployment of soldiers since South Africa won democracy in 1994 was in March 2020, when 70,000 army troops were sent out to enforce the countrys strict lockdown to combat the spread of COVID-19.

___

This story has been corrected to show that this one of the largest deployments of troops in South Africa, not the largest.
BANGKOK (AP)  Production of the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine at a factory in Thailand has fallen short of its target, likely delaying the country's plan to acquire a total of 61 million doses until next May, a government official said Thursday.

The projected supply shortfall will complicate plans to inoculate at least 70% of the countrys 69 million people this year as Thailand battles record-high daily increases in COVID-19 cases and deaths. Cases have risen with the spread of the more contagious delta variant of the virus.

Deputy Health Minister Sathit Pitutacha said in an interview with MCOT Television that AstraZeneca had asked for the extension until next May to complete delivery, and that while the timeframe is flexible, the government will still negotiate for as much monthly supply as possible.

He said that according to AstraZeneca, the current production capacity of the factory operated by Siam Bioscience, a company owned by Thailand's king, is 15 million doses per month, and that AstraZeneca has agreed to provide 40% of that to Thailand. Sathit said production could increase in the future.

The government had previously announced that local production of the AstraZeneca vaccine would supply Thailand with 6 million doses in June, 10 million doses each month from July to November, and 5 million doses in December for a total of 61 million doses this year.

Siam Bioscience was awarded a license by AstraZeneca last year to be a regional production hub supplying eight other countries despite having no experience in manufacturing vaccines.

The government of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha has been widely criticized for failing to secure timely and adequate vaccine supplies, and has been scrambling to obtain vaccines in addition to Sinovac and Sinopharm from China and the locally produced AstraZeneca. The government says it now has agreements to also buy from Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson.

Thai health authorities said Wednesday they will seek to impose limits on exports of the locally produced AstraZeneca vaccine because the country doesnt have enough for its own needs. They did not specify what the limits might be.

Dr. Nakorn Premsri, director of the National Vaccine Institute, said its vaccine committee agreed in principle to issue an order temporarily limiting exports, but did not give any details. The order would be issued by designating it a matter of national security.

India, the worlds biggest vaccine producer, banned vaccine exports earlier this year when it was hit by a devastating coronavirus outbreak.

Thailand has administered 13.53 million doses of vaccine to 10.16 million people, or 14.74% of the countrys population. About 3.37 million people, or 4.89% of the population, are fully vaccinated.

The slow pace of vaccinations, hindered by supply problems, threatens the government's plan to kickstart a recovery of Thailand's key tourist industry by allowing the entry of vaccinated travelers without requiring them to quarantine on arrival starting in mid-October.
BRIDGEPORT  Rows of blueberries and raspberries, summer squash and zucchini, are popping up across Bridgeport, bringing fresh produce and a fun daytime activity to the Park City.

The last four of the local markets operated by the Bridgeport Farmers Market Collaborative are opening this week in neighborhoods throughout the city.

The St. Vincents Farm Stand opened on Main Street on Tuesday, July 13, and East Side Farmers Market on East Main Street on Wednesday, July 14. Farm Stand at Bridgeport Hospital on Mill Hill Avenue premiered Thursday, July 15, followed by East End NRZ Market and Cafe on Stratford Avenue this Sunday.

The vendors will set up shop weekly, all summer and into the fall. Market-goers can shop fresh produce and local crafts, and watch cooking demonstrations and live music performances.

Angelica Ojeda, a market manager, applied for a seasonal position at the East Side Farmers Market in high school. This will be Ojedas sixth year working at the same location, and her first as head of the site.

Farmers markets are the bridge between community and food, said Ojeda. Managers choose the markets stands, selling a variety of goods from fruits and vegetables to crafts like handmade soap.

Ojeda said visitors to the Wednesday farmers market can expect some new features this year.

Each week, local chefs will drop by the markets with a new recipe for shoppers to try using ingredients available on-site. Onlookers this week learned a recipe for a quinoa and avocado salad with citrus agave dressing.

East Side Farmers Market also commissioned a mural by local artist Brad Noble from Art of Everyone. Noble completed the piece a few days ago and hopes it attracts more visitors to the vendors.

While people are driving by, they stop to look at the mural, Ojeda said on the markets opening day.

Takina Pollock Shafer, who oversees all of Bridgeport Farmers Market Collaboratives programs, agreed theres a lot to do at each of the locations.

Theyre fun places to be, she said. Some will have live music, and the food demonstrations are always a big draw.

Proponents of shopping local say it does some good, too.

You can support local farmers and local businesses, said Pollock Shafer. In addition its great for sustainability. Having produce thats traveling in Connecticut rather than from Idaho or somewhere really far is great for the environment.

Vendors from the Bridgeport Farmers Market Collaborative have a shared mission of increasing access to healthy, local produce regardless of income.

Pollock Shafer said many of the markets are on or near the bus line, while Ojeda, the East Side manager, added the markets are scattered around Bridgeport, giving most of the city easy access to a market.

We want to make sure each neighborhood has access, said Ojeda.

She added that at her market, Ojeda makes sure to choose vendors that are reasonably priced, and connect market-goers with financial assistance through the city, the state Department of Agriculture, and not-for-profit and private sources. Some of those initiatives include Bridgeport Bucks, a $5 coupon for the local markets; state-sponsored vouchers for seniors; and SNAP matching, which doubles each dollar of benefits used.

By making fresh food accessible across the city and income brackets, Ojeda said farmers markets help uplift Bridgeport and its residents.

Not only are you helping out with local businesses, she said, but you also get to learn (about new produce) in return, said Ojeda.

The total list of Bridgeport Farmers Market Collaborative 2021 locations is as follows:

Sundays

East End NRZ Market & Cafe at 1851 Stratford Ave.

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. through October 24

Tuesdays

St. Vincents Farm Stand at 2800 Main St.

11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. through October 26

Wednesdays

East Side Farmers Market at 752 East Main St.

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through October 27

Thursdays

Downtown Farmers Market at the corner of Main and Bank Streets

10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. through October 14

Farm Stand at Bridgeport Hospital at 200 Mill Hill Ave.

3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. through October 14

Saturdays

Stratfield Saturday Market in Clinton Park at the corner of Brooklawn and North

9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. through October 9

Reservoir Market at 1469 Reservoir Ave.

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. through October 30.
BOSTON (AP)  When Boston socialites Minna Hall and Harriet Hemenway sought to end the slaughter of birds in the name of 19th century high fashion, they picked a logical namesake for their cause: John James Audubon, a naturalist celebrated for his stunning watercolors of American birds.

Now, 125 years after the founding of the Massachusetts Audubon Society for the Protection of Birds, the organization and the nearly 500 Audubon chapters nationwide it helped inspire are reckoning with another side of Audubons life: He was also a slaveholder and staunch opponent of abolition.

In the year-plus since George Floyd was killed by Minneapolis police, Audubon chapters have pledged to do more to atone for the past, including diversifying their staff and finding ways to make natural spaces more welcoming to people of color. Its part of a broader reckoning within the wider environmental movement, which for years has faced criticism for its racist origins and lack of diversity.

At this point, if people are not part of what theyre trying to protect, thats an issue, Debbie Njai, an Illinois resident who founded the outdoor group BlackPeopleWhoHike, said of conservation groups.

Mass Audubon published an essay last fall acknowledging how Audubons family's wealth came in large part from running a Caribbean sugar plantation. It has also pledged to have people of color make up 25% of its board of directors, and hopes to open more wildlife sanctuaries in communities of color.

The National Audubon Society, which is based in New York and is separate from Mass Audubon, has similarly delved into its namesakes legacy in a series of essays.

And the Sierra Club publicly apologized last July for the racist views of its founder, John Muir, who openly dismissed American Indians as dirty savages. The Oakland-based group has also committed $5 million to boost its environmental justice work and recently voiced support for Black reparations.

Environmental groups understand the future of their movement hinges on changing their white, elitist reputation, said David ONeill, president of Mass Audubon.

If we dont get younger and we dont get more diverse, were not going to have people to advocate on behalf of nature, and thats not good for anyone, he said during a recent visit to the groups Boston Nature Center, an urban wildlife sanctuary in a majority Black neighborhood that it hopes to replicate in other Massachusetts communities of color.

Green organizations appear to be making progress on improving staff diversity, but their leadership remains predominantly white, said Andres Jimenez, head of Green 2.0, a Washington, D.C., group that puts out an annual report card on diversity in the environmental sector.

In its most recent report, Green 2.0 found that the nations largest green groups added, on average, six people of color to their staff, two to their senior management and one to their board of directors between 2017 and 2020.

We need to see that change up top to move the ball in an accelerated way," Jimenez said.

Bird conservation brought the countrys latest racial reckoning to the environmental movements doorsteps, and, in many ways, its where the calls for change are most acutely felt.

There's a growing campaign, for example, to drop the eponyms of birds that honor slaveholders and white supremacists  Bird Names for Birds.

The catalyst was a dispute between a Black birdwatcher and a white woman with her dog in New Yorks Central Park that went viral last summer, sparking #BlackBirdersWeek and other similar efforts to highlight Black nature enthusiasts and the discrimination and other challenges they face in the outdoors.

Christian Cooper, the birder at the center of that controversy, stressed organizations like the Audubon have been taking steps to address diversity long before his viral moment, even if some have yielded mixed results.

A board member with the New York City Audubon Society, Cooper said his chapter has been trying to draw more diverse members through modest events like last month's Juneteenth birdwatching and potluck picnic.

The organizations that are having the most success are those that are trying new things, Cooper said. The reality is that fixing centuries of ingrained racial bias as it manifests in the environmental movement is hard and uncomfortable work."

At the National Audubon Society, the racial reckoning has boiled over into staff unrest.

Spurred by complaints of a toxic workplace, an outside audit concluded in April that a culture of retaliation, fear, and antagonism toward women and people of color" existed at the organization. Longtime CEO David Yarnold swiftly resigned.

Tykee James, who serves as the organizations government affairs officer in Washington, is among the staffers pushing to form a labor union to address diversity and other workplace problems. He also wants the Audubon to be more vocal in publicly advocating for environmental justice causes.

The culture that weve had in this organization hasnt been one for workers of color, hasnt been one for women, hasnt been one for nonbinary folks, James said.

Matt Smelser, a spokesperson for the Audubon Society, referred to a May statement from the group, which said bullying and other bad behavior won't be tolerated going forward. The organization also continues to search for a permanent CEO and has committed to remaining neutral in the unionization efforts, he added.

Back at Mass Audubon, ONeill says the organizations board has added new members so that 17% of them are people of color. The staff of more than 950 is about 65% white.

Scott Edwards, a Harvard ornithologist who is among the recent additions to the group's board, said the jurys still out on whether these early steps from green organizations are enough. Some will have to re-imagine their mission and pivot more to urban populations, he said.

Organizations will have to think creatively about how to get communities of color more connected with nature, said Edwards, who is Black. Show them that their voices are needed and wanted. Make them feel included in the larger effort of conservation.

Mamie Parker, who worked for decades at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and was its first Black regional director, advises environmental groups to approach racial equity like a conservation challenge.

When you plant a tree to restore a forest or take care of bald eagles to rebuild their population, the retired biologist from Dulles, Virginia, said, "it takes years before those efforts bear fruit.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The Biden administration on Thursday convened the first meeting of its community violence intervention collaborative, a group of mayors and administration officials that will share best practices and work closely with the federal government to reduce gun violence.

The White House has touted its investments in these programs as one of the ways it is working to reduce gun violence and combat crime, as Republicans are increasingly looking to use a nationwide increase in violent crime as a political cudgel against Democrats ahead of next years midterm elections.

According to details shared first with The Associated Press, Thursdays meeting was led by Susan Rice, director of the White House Domestic Policy Council, and Julie Rodriguez, director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs. It included the mayors of 10 cities involved in the 15-city collaborative: Atlanta; Chicago; Baltimore; Los Angeles; Philadelphia; Newark, New Jersey; Miami-Dade County, Florida; St. Paul, Minnesota; Washington, D.C.; and Austin, Texas.

The mayors will continue to meet biweekly throughout the summer, and monthly into the fall, to share best practices.

We hope and expect that process will strengthen the programs in those 15 jurisdictions, but also give the experts at the table and the federal government more expertise regarding how to make these programs succeed, that we can then deploy in other communities, once we have additional federal dollars, said Stef Feldman, the senior adviser to the director of the Domestic Policy Council.

Community violence intervention programs focus on both preventing violent crime by empowering local community leaders to engage with those deemed at risk of engaging in or becoming victim to gun violence, so they can connect them with health, economic and other social programs to try to reduce the likelihood of violence being used to resolve conflicts.

The administration has pointed to a report from the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence that says such programs can reduce violence in communities by as much as 60%.

The idea of a collaboration among cities, administration officials, nonprofits and experts working on community violence intervention programs was part of the comprehensive strategy President Joe Biden unveiled in late June aimed at combating what he warned could be a more pronounced spike in summer crime as COVID-19 pandemic restrictions have waned. Bidens plan focuses on providing money to cities that need more police, offering community support and cracking down on gun violence and people supplying illegal firearms.

Still, much of the strategy amounted largely to recommendations to local jurisdictions on how to use federal funds. And it reflected in part an awareness that the federal government can only do so much to reduce gun crimes as stricter gun control measures have languished on Capitol Hill, where an evenly divided Congress makes them unlikely to pass.

Biden also highlighted the fact that $350 billion in state and local funding from the administrations COVID-19 relief bill can be used to hire new police officers, invest in crime-fighting technology and equipment and boost community violence intervention programs.

Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has committed to spending $5 million of those funds on a community violence intervention program in her city, while Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney has pledged to invest $25 million to $30 million in federal funding from the aid bill in community-based public safety strategies.

Bottoms, a longtime Biden ally, said in an AP interview that there were a lot of emotions we were seeing playing out in our streets." She said that the city was initially worried about a summer spike in crime  but that the federal investments have helped.

We have a limited amount of resources, a limited amount of man and woman power, she said. When you are tackling something this big, it helps to have that technical assistance.
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As demand rises sharply, it creates a fertile breeding ground for new Fintechs who claim they can streamline loan processing time, increase profits of even the smallest loans and improve the entire loan experience for banks and their customers.

But how can you distinguish between achievable goals and lip service? You need to ask the right questions to break through the noise and get real, honest answers. As a provider in this space, we spend countless hours researching the competition, talking with banks about their challenges, and continually enhancing our own small-business lending platform. Were happy to share our top 8 questions to ask a prospective partner when considering a small business lending platform.
Marion Albright Slatsky grew up in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. At a young age, she strived to learn everything she could...read everything she could. vBooks were her pathway to new adventures and knowledge, carving a path forward over the years to come. After graduating with a bachelor's degree, sh
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ABC NewsJuly 10, 2021Who are Rise of the Moors?What we know about the group associated with 11 men arrested after an armed standoff in Massachusetts.Eleven people armed with long guns and dressed in tactical gear who claimed to be a part of group called "Rise of the Moors" were arrested following an hours-long standoff with Massachusetts police over the weekend.Police said they found heavily armed men in two vehicles near Interstate 95 around 1:30 a.m. on Saturday. A nine-hour standoff ensued before all 11 were arrested. No one was harmed in the incident.The men arrested range in age from 17 to 40 and hailed from Rhode Island, New York and Michigan. Two of the men refused to identify themselves and a third is a 17-year-old whose name will not be released because he's a minor, police said.Police say the arrested are: Jamhal Tavon Sanders Latimer, 29, of Providence, Rhode Island; Robert Rodriguez, 21, of the Bronx, New York; Wilfredo Hernandez, 21, of the Bronx; Alban El Curraugh, 27, of the Bronx; Aaron Lamont Johnson, 29, of Detroit; Quinn Cumberlander, 40, of Pawtucket, Rhode Island; Lamar Dow, 34, of the Bronx; and Conrad Pierre, 29, of Baldwin, New York.Not guilty pleas were entered on behalf of all the defendants, who are being without bail pending a Friday hearing, The Associated Press reported.Massachusetts State Police Col. Christopher Mason said the men identified themselves as part of a group called Rise of the Moors and said they were traveling from Rhode Island to Maine for "training." It was unclear what that training involved.According to the group's website, Rise of the Moors is a group of "Moorish Americans dedicated to educating new Moors and influencing our Elders."The group is headquartered in Rhode Island, according to its website. The group did not respond to ABC News' request for comment.The website says that Moors are not "sovereign citizens," but argues that Moors are the "original sovereigns" of America and are therefore immune from U.S. law.Freddy Cruz, a research analyst at Southern Poverty Law Center who tracks anti-government groups, said Rise of the Moors is classified as a sovereign citizen, antigovernment group.He said the group draws much of their beliefs and inspirations from ancient civilizations including ties to the Aztecs, the Olmecs and other native peoples."They tend to reference all these past civilizations with the idea that they're somehow entitled to, or there's somehow a lineage there, that affords them the right to essentially disassociate themselves from the U.S. government," Cruz said.Because they refuse to abide by American law, group members can end up in tense situations with police, Cruz said."So a lot of these groups don't tend to register their firearms, they don't register their vehicles, that tends to be a recipe for disaster, especially if law enforcement is involved, because they tend to essentially become quite standoffish," he said.In the Massachusetts incident, police said they had asked the men for drivers licenses and gun licenses, but the men said they didn't have any.The Moorish sovereign citizen movement emerged in the early 1990s as an offshoot of the anti-government sovereign citizens movement, and more specifically, the Moorish Science Temple of America, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center..The Moorish Science Temple of America was created in 1913, but not all MSTA are linked to sovereign citizens, according to the SPLC.According to the Moorish Science Temple of Americas website, the temple is a divine and national movement that teaches about Moorish identity, which under their definition, means Black Americans. They practice Islam and denounce the sovereign citizens movement and identify as U.S. citizens.ABC News has reached out to the Moorish Science Temple of American for comment.Some Moorish sovereigns believe that a 1787 treaty between the U.S. and Morocco -- a claim that SPLC says is "fictitious" -- grants them immunity from U.S. law, the center reported. Some groups create their own birth certificates, passports, driver's licenses and vehicle registrations, according to SPLC.This perceived immunity from local authority is used to justify refusing to pay taxes, buy car insurance, register vehicles, and "defraud banks", the center reported. The movement has no unified leadership and consists of small groups, most of which operate in the Southeast, Northeast and Midwest U.S., according to the SPLC.Despite experts classifying the group as sovereign citizens and anti-government, Col. Mason said that the "self-professed leader" of the group of 11 men arrested "wanted it very much known that their ideology is not anti-government." He noted he can't confirm that they are "validated members" of the group.SPLC officially listed Rise of the Moors as an anti-government organization in 2020. Cruz said the center has counted so far six organizations that are classified as Moorish sovereign anti-government groups across the country.Ken Gray, a retired FBI special agent and professor of criminal justice at the University of New Haven, told ABC News that sovereign citizens "tend to be more of a law enforcement nuisance than they seem to be a violent group.""They seem to be much more involved in tying people up in legal problems, making false claims on property, not paying taxes," he said."This group here said that they were going up to conduct training and they were outfitted in camouflage clothing, carrying body armor, and had long guns with them. But that does not necessarily mean that they were planning to do something violent, it could very well be that they were training like that for defensive purposes," he added.Cruz said the SPLC has reported seeing the Rise of the Moors group participate in paramilitary training before, but the location of the training is unknown. He said it's uncommon to see sovereign citizen groups participate in such training.He warned the public to be wary of such groups, saying sovereign communities, "tend to prey on people who have fallen on hard times, and are not necessarily aware of what it means to be part of a sovereign nation.""With the Moorish groups especially, they try and tailor their message to bring in Black and brown folks with the idea that their sovereign nation will provide opportunities and a more equitable society for folks," Cruz said. "A lot of times people get caught up in that and don't realize that essentially what they're espousing is illegal. You can't just grab a car and drive it wherever you want. You can't just squat in homes and make them your own. You can't just carry around firearms and not have them registered."All 11 men arrested in Wakefield have been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, use of body armor in commission of a crime, possession of a high capacity magazine, improper storage of firearms in a vehicle and conspiracy to commit a crime, police said. Hernandez, Johnson, Dow and the unnamed teen are also being charged with providing a false name to police, authorities said.The teenager was released to parental custody while the 10 adults are being held at the Billerica House of Correction on $100,000 cash bail, authorities said.On Tuesday, in Malden District Court, most of the men rejected the charges against them and most said they'd represent themselves. The court entered not guilty pleas on their behalf, according to MassLive.ABC News could not immediately contact any lawyers for the men. Further hearings will take place Friday.
Broken Bow, NE (68822)

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Jill Cataldo, a coupon workshop instructor, writer and mother of three, never passes up a good deal. Learn more about Super-Couponing at her website, jillcataldo.com. Email your own couponing victories and questions to jill@ctwfeatures.com.
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Brown family files $30M suit: Daniels says 'This was unlawful killing'

cday / photos by Chris Day/The Daily Advance Bakari Sellers (left) and Harry Daniels, two of the attorneys representing the family of Andrew Brown Jr., speak at a press conference on the steps of the J. Herbert W. Small Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse in Elizabeth City, Wednesday, to announce they have filed a $30 million civil rights lawsuit in federal court on behalf of the family. cday / Chris Day/The Daily Advance brown fed lawsuit 2 Bakari Sellers, one of the attorneys representing the Brown family, holds a copy of a $30 million civil rights lawsuit attorneys filed in U.S. federal court on behalf of the family, Wednesday.

Brown portrait Andrew Brown

The family of Andrew Brown Jr. filed a $30 million civil rights lawsuit against Pasquotank and Dare County sheriffs officials on Wednesday, 85 days after Brown was shot and killed by Pasquotank sheriffs deputies.

Attorneys representing the family were in Elizabeth City on Wednesday to announce the lawsuit on the steps of the J. Herbert W. Small Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse. Brown was shot and killed the morning of April 21 after deputies attempted to serve a warrant at his home on Perry Street.

The lawsuit was filed in a U.S. District Court by Browns paternal aunt, Lillie Brown Clark, who is the administrator for his estate. The suit says the 42-year-old Brown was the father of seven children.

The federal lawsuit names seven Pasquotank deputies and investigators who were involved in the attempt to serve a warrant at Browns home the morning he was killed. Also named are Pasquotank Sheriff Tommy Wooten II and Dare County Sheriff Doug Doughtie. Two additional officers who have not yet been identified by attorneys are also named in the suit but are listed as Jane and John Doe.

Lead attorney Harry Daniels opened a press conference to announce the lawsuit by discussing the strategic advantages of filing it with the federal courts.

Let me be very clear. I and this team have compulsory authority, federal subpoena authority, to get all the videos, all the tapes, all the recordings, all the records, he said. No district attorney. No county administrator. No state court can stop us from doing that.

Daniels said filing the lawsuit was an easy decision.

Because the facts in this case, its very easy that anybody can see, this was an unlawful killing, a murder of Andrew Brown, Daniels said.

Daniels mentioned District Attorney Andrew Wombles announcement in May that he was not filing charges against the three deputies who fired their weapons at Brown.

The district attorney stood before you sometime in May and talked about that he utilized the law to make his decision, Daniels said. Well, he somehow missed the law in North Carolina. He somehow missed the law in the Fourth Circuit that covers the state of North Carolina.

Daniels cited a case from 2005 as precedence. In that case, the court determined that police cannot shoot a person who is driving away from them, Daniels said.

At a press conference in May, Womble said that based on his review of the facts, including a report from the State Bureau of Investigation, and his review of the deputies body camera footage, he determined that the deputies shooting was justified to protect their lives and others at the scene.

Daniels said somebody asked him why the Brown family is seeking $30 million in the lawsuit.

Somebody asked me, Why so much? he said. Well, why is Andrew Brown dead today?

Pasquotank carries liability insurance through the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners, but coverage for a law enforcement wrongful act is capped at $2 million.

If the county were to lose or settle any potential civil lawsuit arising from Browns fatal shooting for more than that amount, Pasquotank would be liable for the difference.

The NCACC would provide Pasquotank legal representation in any potential lawsuit against the county.

Pasquotank County Attorney Mike Cox said the county would have no comment on the lawsuit filed in federal court.

Joining the defense team Wednesday was the Rev. Dr. William Barber, president of Repairers of the Breach and a national civil rights leader. Barber said one comment that Womble made at the May press conference still haunts him.

Dont forget that statement that Womble made: We couldnt let him go, Barber said, referring to Wombles response as to why deputies couldnt have let Brown flee and arrest him later.

That is the fundamental question in this lawsuit, Barber said. Why did authorities say before the whole nation, We could not, an unarmed man, let him go. Dont let that question go.

The seven Pasquotank deputies named in the lawsuit are Investigator Daniel Meads, Deputy Robert Morgan, Cpl. Aaron Lewellyn, Lt. Steven Judd, Sgt. Michael Swindell, Sgt. Kenneth Bishop and Sgt. Joel Lunsford.

Llewellen, Meads, Morgan were the only three deputies who fired their weapons at Brown. The remaining four deputies were initially placed on administrative leave but soon after returned to active duty.

In June, Llewellen advised the Sheriffs Office that he would resign on June 30, Wooten said at the time.
Elizabeth City, NC (27909)

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Showers and thunderstorms. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
Ryan Anderson/Daily Citizen-News

Murray Works, a new Murray County workforce initiative, not only will grow an expert workforce for businesses already in Murray County, but serve as a lure for companies considering locating there, said Eli Falls, right, president and CEO of the Murray County Chamber of Commerce and the county Industrial Development Authority. "We want to give another reason to say 'Yes' to Murray County," said Barry Gentry, left, senior vice president of the chamber.
File/Daily Citizen-News

Michelle Caldwell, then Whitfield County Schools' elementary curriculum director and now director of accountability and assessment, shares insights with new teachers during new teacher orientation at Eastbrook Middle School during the summer of 2020. This year's new teacher introductions are scheduled for July 27-29, and new teacher orientation is a critical piece of "getting their careers (in this school system) off to a good start," said Karey Williams, Whitfield County Schools' deputy superintendent.
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Kingston Mayor Steve Noble speaks on Nov. 5, 2019, at Keegan Ales on St. James Street after winning a second four-year term as the city's leader. Next to him are his wife, Julie, and their son, Matthew.
KINGSTON, N.Y.  The need for Kingston police to have an "armored rescue vehicle" was determ
KINGSTON, N.Y.  No one has been evicted from the group home Chiz's Heart Street, but operat
TOWN OF ULSTER, N.Y.  Ulster County has taken possession of two large parcels at the TechCi
Diane Pineiro-Zucker has been a reporter at the Daily Freeman since April 2013. Pineiro-Zucker worked as a reporter in the Freemans Rhinebeck bureau in the early 1980s, left to become executive editor at Taconic Newspapers in Dutchess County.
The following items are based on information provided by officials in law enforcement and the criminal justice system.
Talking Points:

Its been an abnormally busy Thursday in the summer as markets remained fairly busy throughout the session. Of course, FOMC Chair Jerome Powell speaking at part two of the Feds Humphrey Hawkins testimony contributed to the drive; but that certainly wasnt all as there were a few different themes of note in the headlines. This article will look at some of the more prominent.

Did Oil Just Top?

A widely-followed financial pundit with a television show made a brash call today, saying that oil prices have topped. This caught a ton of attention as oil prices have been in the midst of a one-way move over the past couple of months, and just last Tuesday touched up to a fresh six-year-high.

Prices have been snagged at resistance since that test last week, however, but as we pointed out in the recent Analyst Pick on oil, this is a big zone of resistance with multiple levels in tight proximity. I had started looking at bullish breakout potential in late-May as oil prices were angling up to another key zone, and an explosive movement showed thereafter. So, it makes some sense for prices to calm after an exuberant run tested through a massive level on the chart.

But has oil topped? Theres not yet enough information to suggest as such. For traders looking to fade this recent breakout, awaiting a test below the 70 psychological level and, further, the 64.31-67.19 zone seems a prudent indication to follow before looking to get bearish on a trend thats been extremely bullish for the past two months.

To learn more about psychological levels, check out DailyFX Education

Crude Oil Daily Price Chart

Chart prepared by James Stanley; CL2 on Tradingview

USD, JPY Strength

An interesting observation in FX-land of recent has been the general strength showing in anti-risk currencies like the USD or JPY.

I had looked into the Japanese Yen last week, tying that Yen strength in with the continued drop in US yields. That pressure has yet to relent, and Yen-strength continues to show visibly against many major currencies, the US Dollar included.

Chair Powells comments on Wednesday and Thursday proved unhelpful to the theme as US yields continued to drop as Yen-strength continued to build. This sets up for a fairly interesting scenario for the days/weeks ahead, particularly if we do see some element of risk aversion pop up in global markets.

With both bonds and stocks heading higher of recent, the question begs which one is right? Often, bonds are the signal to follow, and if that remains the case, and if yields continue to dip, then there may be a summer surprise not too far off in the distance, and Yen bulls may be able to benefit from that. Below I look at EUR/JPY as the pair has pushed down for a re-test of the level that caught the lows last week. Last weeks test bounced into a lower-high, giving the appearance of bearish breakout potential as that price comes back into play.

EUR/JPY Daily Price Chart

Chart prepared by James Stanley; EURJPY on Tradingview

BTC, Crypto Breakdown Potential

The meme stock manias from earlier this year seem a bit more distant now as both AMC and Gamestop have been on offer over the past week. But even the crypto space appears to be getting less attention, and today there appeared to be some fairly bearish prognostications on the space from a number of different outlets. Jeff Gundlach had some interesting comments on the matter, saying that the Bitcoin chart looks scary at the moment.

He also had some interesting comments back in May, saying that cryptocurrencies were the poster child for the speculative fervor coursing through markets, and he highlighted how the sell-off in Bitcoin may be signaling that the fervor was calming.

Since then, Bitcoin hasnt yet broken down but it hasnt exactly been bullish, either. The same support zone that came into play in mid-May remains in-play today. And while the initial bounces back in May or early-June could lead to a run up to the 40k level, more recently, those bounces have been showing a diminishing impact, and now theres a descending trendline sitting atop price action.

That makes for a descending triangle formation  often approached with the aim of bearish breakdowns. That can be a scary thing, particularly to those who are long.

To learn more about the descending triangle formation, check out DailyFX Education

BTC/USD Daily Price Chart

Chart prepared by James Stanley; Bitcoin on Tradingview

--- Written by James Stanley, Senior Strategist for DailyFX.com

Contact and follow James on Twitter: @JStanleyFX
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Canadian Dollar Outlook:

USD/CAD rates are ripping towards a confluence of resistance, thanks in part to the lack of hawkish signaling by the Bank of Canada yesterday.

Meanwhile, CAD/JPY rates have lost a significant uptrend as risk appetite sours.

According to the IG Client Sentiment Index USD/ CAD rates have a near-term mixed bias.

Losing the Narrative

The Canadian Dollar is struggling to overcome some short-term headwinds at present time. Weakness in energy markets has sapped a potent catalyst, while the July Bank of Canada meeting proved to meet expectations on its taper efforts  and its it. BOC rate hike odds through the end of the year have come down from about 40% to 30% in the past 36-hours.

Elsewhere, declining global bond yields (eroding the carry trade) coupled with weakness in equity markets has sapped risk appetite. The spillover impact into CAD/JPY and USD/CAD rates has produced meaningful technical developments through the middle of July.

CAD/JPY Rate Technical Analysis: Daily Chart (June 2020 to July 2021) (Chart 1)

CAD/JPY rates have dropped to a fresh monthly low on the session, trading at 87.11 at the time this report was written. Theyre below their daily EMA envelope, which is in full bearish sequential order. Daily MACD is falling, while daily Slow Stochastics are shifting back towards oversold territory. Concurrently, CAD/JPY rates also dropped below the 38.2% Fibonacci retracement of the uptrend from the late-January low/May high range at 87.29, suggesting that a deeper setback is possible below 86.00 in the coming sessions.

USD/CAD Rate Technical Analysis: Daily Chart (June 2020 to July 2021) (Chart 2)

USD/CAD rates are struggling as BOC rate hike odds pull back and Fed rate hike odds creep forward, ever so slowly. Sprinkle in weaker crude oil prices, and its a potent near-term mix for more upside in the pair. Having already broken the descending channel resistance earlier this month, fresh July highs were established today. The pairs momentum profile is thoroughly bullish, with USD/CAD rates above their daily EMA envelope in bullish sequential order, while daily MACD has risen to its highest point since the start of the pandemic, and daily Slow Stochastics are on the verge of reentering overbought territory. More gains into the April high (bearish key reversal high) at 1.2654 seem plausible before resistance is found.

IG Client Sentiment Index: USD/CAD Rate Forecast (July 15, 2021) (Chart 3)

USD/CAD: Retail trader data shows 59.26% of traders are net-long with the ratio of traders long to short at 1.45 to 1. The number of traders net-long is 15.60% lower than yesterday and 9.57% higher from last week, while the number of traders net-short is 9.70% higher than yesterday and 2.51% lower from last week.

We typically take a contrarian view to crowd sentiment, and the fact traders are net-long suggests USD/CAD prices may continue to fall.

Positioning is less net-long than yesterday but more net-long from last week. The combination of current sentiment and recent changes gives us a further mixed USD/CAD trading bias.

--- Written by Christopher Vecchio, CFA, Senior Currency Strategist
Jackie Bailey, 80, of Westwood, Kentucky, died peacefully Saturday morning, July 17th, at her home while under hospice care. Jackie was born February 10, 1941 in Boyd County, Kentucky. She, and her late husband Earl Bailey, were the owners and operators of the former Bailey's Texaco Station 
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Driving through the African bushland, 40 miles south of the Rwandan capital Kigali, I came across an unexpected feature in the scorched and dusty landscape.

At the top of a hill just outside the tiny village of Gashora  little more than a collection of market stalls, a scattering of shops and a bar  there was a Danish flag on the sign outside a local refugee camp

It was an incongruous sight at the heart of this landlocked, central African country: enough to make me look twice when I spotted it, because that single flag is loaded with symbolism.

It marks the place where Denmark could potentially house and process the applications of refugees and asylum seekers hoping for a new life in our Scandinavian country.

For last year, the Danish ministry for international development contributed 21.6 million Danish kroner (2.5 million) to an international aid budget to fund the evacuation of 1,500 refugees from war-torn Libya to Rwandan camps, including the one at Gashora.

The refugees had reached Libya from other parts of Africa but were at risk of being caught up in clashes or hit by air strikes, so they were evacuated by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), supported by Denmark, in order to be given food and medical treatment in a place of safety.

As a result, Rwanda is seen as the most obvious potential partner as Denmark pursues its strategy of transporting asylum seekers to offshore hubs while their applications are considered.

The plan was outlined in a bill passed by the Danish parliament last month, creating a new law which will allow us to repatriate asylum seekers to centres in a partner country outside Europe.

In essence, that means any migrants arriving on Danish soil could promptly be flown abroad - perhaps, indeed, to the camp I visited that day near Gashora - while their fates are decided.

A new law will allow Denmark to repatriate asylum seekers to centres in a partner country outside Europe

On paper, the term offshore hub has a rather futuristic, sci-fi feel, but the brutal reality of the process strikes a discordant note when set against Scandinavias global image as a liberal and welcoming society.

Nonetheless, the idea seems to be broadly supported by a huge swathe of the Danish public.

People appear only too ready to embrace it as a possible solution to what the Danish immigration minister Mattias Tesfaye - himself the son of an Ethiopian refugee - has called the current failed system.

Tesfaye is strongly in favour of creating a new system that he insists will deter asylum seekers and undermine the people traffickers who so cynically exploit them - helping to end the horrifying spectacle of migrants drowning in the Mediterranean and suffocating in lorries as they are smuggled across borders.

Now it has emerged that UK Home Secretary Priti Patel is keen to partner up with Denmark in this bold  and highly controversial  new initiative.

Her department has been in talks with the Danish government since January about the possibility of sharing a centre in Africa where asylum seekers could be sent to be processed outside Europe.

And the Nationality And Borders Bill, which had its first reading in the Commons earlier this month, paves the way for Britain to create offshore centres of its own.

Its a plan that has already been met with scepticism and outrage by other European countries  including our near-neighbour Norway  not to mention the UNHCR, which has labelled the move a frightening race to the bottom.

Yet in reality, this zero tolerance approach, as its been labelled by critics, is nothing new.

Danish governments of various hues have been imposing ever-stricter laws on immigration since 2001, when a minority government led by the Liberal Party and Conservatives came to power backed by the Right-wing Danish Peoples Party (DPP), which made sweeping immigration reform a condition of its support.

As the years passed, rising immigration numbers became an increasingly hot potato for Denmarks ruling parties.

Its no exaggeration to say that elections have been won and lost on immigration policy ever since, with successive governments linking rising crime rates and lower-than-average levels of education and income to immigration.

In 2012, the police reported that conviction rates for male descendants of immigrants were more than double those of male citizens of Danish descent.

But it was an influx of migrants from the conflict in Syria in 2015 that led to a turning point in the national mood.

For last year, the Danish ministry for international development contributed 21.6 million Danish kroner (2.5 million) to an international aid budget to fund the evacuation of 1,500 refugees from war-torn Libya to Rwandan camps, including the one at Gashora

Over the course of that year, around 21,000 migrants entered the country via Denmarks southern land border and its northern seaports.

Most of them arrived in Europe by boat, landing in Italy or Greece  where they should have applied for asylum  but appear to have then made their own way overland to Scandinavia.

That September, several hundred arrived in one day, and pictures of the incomers walking on a motorway near the town of Padborg in the Southern Jutland region were emblazoned across the front pages of all the national newspapers.

You might ask what drives the migrants to head quite so far north. The answer is that, for many, Denmark offers a promise of the good life.

Social security benefits are relatively generous and - in contrast to countries such as France or Belgium - Denmark offers good quality council housing, schools and kindergartens are of a high standard all over the country, and crime rates - even in socially deprived areas - are relatively low.

Now it has emerged that Home Secretary Priti Patel is keen to partner up with Denmark in this bold - and highly controversial - new initiative

Unfortunately for the migrants who entered the country in 2015, their arrival coincided with the advent of a new Right-wing minority government under prime minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen and Inger Stojberg, his hard-line minister for foreign affairs and integration.

Stojberg, alive to the mounting public disquiet, wasted no time in presenting an array of hawkish measures aimed at controlling the newly arrived population.

The new laws included measures which gave police the power to seize money and valuables from asylum seekers  including, controversially, jewellery  and the introduction of a mandatory mayoral handshake for anyone who wished to become a citizen.

Some Muslim groups prohibit or discourage their faithful from touching members of the opposite sex outside their immediate families and the handshake requirement  which included a provision that the wearing of gloves was unacceptable  was designed to ensure that the would-be citizen had respect for Danish values.

Such ghetto laws, as they became known, included compulsory nursery hours for young children in immigrant communities (which are not required for the children of longstanding Danish citizens) and, pre-Covid, a mask ban colloquially named the burqa ban.

Stojberg also presided over the forcible separation of married refugees under the age of 18  even if they had children  an act for which she was later impeached.

Draconian as they may seem, however, the bulk of these laws remain in place today, despite power having passed to a Left-leaning Social Democrat government.

The reality is that, in contrast to many neighbouring nations, a tough stance on immigration is an approach that unites not only much of the Danish public but all shades of the political spectrum.

It is against this bubbling cauldron of public anxiety that Tesfaye  whose political trajectory from refugees son to immigration hardliner arguably reflects the Rightward shift of his nation  introduced his idea of offshore hubs.

Having been unable to create a new asylum system in agreement with Denmarks European neighbours, Tesfayes solution is to attempt to forge bilateral agreements with countries such as Rwanda, which he visited in April to sign a memorandum of understanding with the Rwandan ministry of foreign affairs.

The lure for Rwanda is obvious enough: international clout for incumbent president Paul Kagame, and, of course, cash.

It remains unclear whether Denmark wishes to use the Gashora camp itself for processing asylum applications, as the details of how Tesfayes plan might work currently remain maddeningly vague.

Thus far, the memorandum of understanding doesnt say what the application process will be, who will determine who gains access to Denmark and what happens to those who dont make the cut.

Instead, it refers to the vision of the Danish government that the processing of asylum applications should take place outside of the EU to break the negative incentive structure of the present asylum system.

Quite how that vision will operate in practice is unclear, but given that Denmark is already co-operating with Rwanda on asylum policy, it would seem a fair assumption that the Gashora camp may well be a starting point.

Last month, when I circumnavigated the boundaries of the camp  which currently houses around 500 refugees, largely from Somalia and Eritrea  it seemed clean and well maintained, with refugees housed in new-build concrete structures in a heavily guarded compound, surrounded by fencing.

It is undoubtedly an improvement on the hellhole camps where many of the residents have come from, but, while clearly not keen to talk to a journalist, those residents I did manage to exchange some words with were very clear that they intended to make it to the West whatever impediments we might try to put in their way.

In other words, the incentive is still there, as are the mechanisms to fulfil it.

It appears that it will take more than an offshore hub to deter the people traffickers or blunt the desires of those determined to secure a better life.

The reality is that if its harder to get to Denmark, then desperate migrants will simply aim to go somewhere else in Europe  and it is this aspect of Tesfayes plan that has put Denmark on a collision course with the rest of the continent.

As Jan Egeland, a veteran fellow Social Democrat from neighbouring Norway, stated in the Norwegian national newspaper Politiken recently: The worlds poorest countries  Lebanon, Rwanda, Jordan  are forced to keep their borders open... Meanwhile Danes can sit in Nyhavn (Copenhagens pub hotspot) with a pint and some roast pork and for ever enjoy the best welfare the world has to offer, with no regard for international solidarity.

Of course, the Danes may yet not be alone: this week a source inside the Danish immigration ministry told me the government is currently in talks with at least five other third-world countries in addition to Rwanda about the prospect of collaborating on offshore hubs.

Now we wait to see whether this controversial vision comes to fruition  and if the UK may yet have a part to play.
A couple of weeks ago, Nissan announced to great fanfare that it was investing 1 billion in a new battery gigafactory in Sunderland.

Backed by a reported grant of 100 million from the Government, this was hailed as a convincing vote of confidence in post-Brexit global Britain.

This week, 900 staff at the car companys existing plant on Wearside have been sitting at home idle after being pinged by the NHSs Test and Trace app.

Production has been seriously disrupted and there are predictions that factories all over Britain, not just Nissan, will be forced to shut down as hundreds of thousands of employees are ordered to self-isolate.

According to the latest figures available, 520,000 people were told to quarantine last week after receiving Covid alerts on their mobile phones. That figure is expected to increase dramatically.

Soon there may be two or three million perfectly healthy employees stuck indoors doing sod all, when they could be helping Britain get back on its feet. Anyone discovered to have been in brief contact with an infected person has to self-isolate for ten days, even though they have been double-jabbed and have no symptoms themselves.

This week, 900 staff at Nissan's existing plant on Wearside have been sitting at home idle after being pinged by the NHS s Test and Trace app

Dido Hardings trigger-happy Test and Trace system is causing chaos, as commerce grinds to a halt. Supermarket shelves are emptying because of a shortage of delivery drivers. Retailers such as Iceland have had to close some stores altogether as a result of supply difficulties and lack of staff.

The travel and hospitality industries are in utter disarray. Trains are being cancelled and the airports are in meltdown, with queues up to six hours at Heathrow because security staff are off work. The summer holiday plans of millions, who have been confined to barracks for the past 16 months, are being ruined at a moments notice.

How the hell is anyone supposed to plan anything while Test and Trace remains in place? Yet it should have been scrapped months ago.

Test and Trace was supposed to be our safeguard against the spread of Covid before the vaccines were developed. Now that virtually everyone at risk has received both doses, its effectively redundant.

But far from winding the scheme down, its full steam ahead.

Having spent billions on the technology, the bureaucrats are determined to use it  regardless of the widespread damage it is causing. Next Monday was supposed to be freedom day when we finally cast off the shackles of lockdown and the economy roared back into life at warp factor nine.

This time round, the pingers are doing more damage to industry and the economy than Arthur Scargills pickets ever did

Yet ministers insist that Test and Trace will stay in place for at least another month and reports that the app would be adjusted to make it less sensitive seem to have been wide of the mark.

Now theres a surprise. Ive been warning you for more than a year not to expect a return to the Old Normal. The politicians, the so-called experts and the standing bureaucracy were never going to relinquish the power they have seized since last March. The restrictions on our liberty have merely been repackaged and made even more complicated and confusing.

Meet the new rules, worse than the old rules.

Far from granting our freedom they are already gearing up to reintroduce lockdown in the autumn, peddling horror stories about a coming explosion of respiratory diseases such as flu. Why? Covid no longer poses a widespread mortal threat, no matter how many blood-curdling variants they invent. The latest is the Lambada Variant. Next week, presumably, itll be the Macarena.

As far back as anyone can remember, tens of thousands of people have been dying of flu and pneumonia every year without the Government considering it necessary to force the entire population to stay indoors indefinitely. Not so long ago, if someone caught the flu, theyd go home to bed with a hot toddy.

Their workmates wouldnt be required to knock off, too, and self-isolate for a week and half.

Theres been a cornucopia of fishy material for Gary to get his teeth into lately. Its difficult to know where to start

It used to be said that the post-war town planners did more damage to the landscape of Britain than the Luftwaffe managed. This time round, the pingers are doing more damage to industry and the economy than Arthur Scargills pickets ever did.

Who needs a general strike when youve got Test and Trace?

Once upon a time, shop stewards had to blow a whistle or secure a show of hands at a mass meeting to empty a factory floor.

Today, thanks to modern technology and a bureaucratic culture of blind panic, one ping on a mobile phone app and (for those of you who remember The Rag Trade) its:

Everybody Out!

As Peter Cook once observed wisely, on the Derek and Clive Tapes, this is not a way to run a ballroom. On the one hand, the Government is forking out 100 million of taxpayers money to encourage inward investment and level up Britain.

On the other, its also spending billions on a bonkers Test and Trace system that is closing down businesses at the ping of an app and sending the economy to Hell in a handcart.

Under the current knee-jerk regime, why would anyone bother to open a whelk stall, let alone a 1 billion gigafactory?

Theres been a cornucopia of fishy material for Gary to get his teeth into lately. Its difficult to know where to start.

A lake in Buckinghamshire has been colonised by terrapins believed to have been dumped by former Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles fans who once kept them as pets but have now grown up and left home.

In Minnesota, they are having similar problems with abandoned goldfish, which have grown to the size of rugby balls.

Back home, in Brixham, Devon, theyre hunting for a venomous viper the size of the Loch Ness Monster. And scientists report that trout are hooked on crystal meth which has entered rivers via the sewage system. That echoes the news a couple of years ago that eels in the Thames were getting high on cocaine.

No species is immune from the knock-on effects of human narcotics. Researchers at the University of Florida say crayfish which have ingested anti-depressants are becoming bolder, leaving them vulnerable to predators. Still, while anti-depressants in rivers are a death sentence for crayfish, they can only be good news for our old friend the Depressed River Mussel.

Speaking of the inconvenience caused by the Test and Trace app, a holiday park in Cornwall has asked guests to clean their own toilet block after staff were pinged and forced to isolate

Speaking of the inconvenience caused by the Test and Trace app, a holiday park in Cornwall has asked guests to clean their own toilet block after staff were pinged and forced to isolate.

Charming. You spend an arm and a leg on a staycation because foreign travel is a non-starter, and then find you have to pack a pair of Marigolds and a Toilet Duck along with your bucket and spade.

Sounds like a sequel to Carry On Camping and Carry On At Your Convenience, starring Babs Windsor and Sid James as W.C. Boggs. Carry On Scrubbing!

As petrol and diesel vehicles are phased out and Britain goes green, there are plans to install overhead cables on motorways to power a new generation of electric lorries.

Talk about back to the future.

Isnt that what we used to call trams?

Whos running our education system  Alice Cooper?

The school holidays start today in most areas. But will anyone actually notice?

Thanks to Covid, schools not only out for summer, its out for ever.

Whos running our education system  Alice Cooper?
Peruse the shelves of any liquor store or glance behind the bar in a Mexican restaurant and you'll no doubt be met with an array of tequila bottles.

Following a prohibition-era boom when it was smuggled over the border, tequila has become a staple spirit in the United States, with Americans displaying a seemingly unquenchable thirst for its flavor.

Whether sipped straight, taken as a shot, or mixed into margaritas, everywhere alcohol is consumed, from frat parties to country clubs, you are sure to see tequila on the menu.

Unsurprisingly, many Americans have been keen to cash in on the trend, and various brands have ended up jostling for position in the crowded market.

Tequila has become one of the most popular spirits in the United States, but if you want authentic, true flavor you need to pick a brand that understands the heritage of the drink

Celebrities have been quick to jump on the bandwagon, with the likes of George Clooney, P Diddy, Nick Jonas and even Kendall Jenner lending their names to tequilas.

In this melee, it can be easy to forget that tequila was once the preserve of small, family-run operations, and it maintains a rich cultural heritage steeped in tradition and community.

So, to get back to the heart of what tequila truly is - and to help you find the best bottle when you next fancy a drink - we spoke to some of the people who know the spirit best; the local experts who are not only familiar with the production process, but who also understand the passion that goes into truly authentic tequila.

Master tequilier Tania Oseguera points out that authenticity can be understood in two ways. Firstly, the tequila needs to meet all the requirements established in law to be called 'tequila', but just as importantly, it needs to be true to itself as a brand.

Jose Maria Donde Rangel, beverage manager at Claro in Brooklyn and founder of Panorama Mezcal magazine, explains: 'I think the meaning of real tequila it's when you know where it's coming from. Not only the geographic part of it, but where it really comes from.

Real tequila must be made in Mexico, in the appellation of origin region, following all the production steps established in Mexican law

Tequila Cazadores is made in Los Altos de Jalisco, where the soil is red, and the agave plants are known for being big, juicy and sweet with delicious fruity notes

'We talk about the land, who works that land, how long they have been doing it, how many generations, what's the process, the sustainability plan, how they give back to the community, etc. When there is transparency and information about what you are drinking, you know you have a real tequila.'

Award-winning bartender and ambassador for Tequila Cazadores Manny Hinojosa agrees. He says: 'For me, a tequila has to have heritage and history.'

Manny, who grew up in Mexico City, says that he likes to use tequilas that have been created for the Mexican people rather than an American or global market, because to him this is a mark of authenticity.

'It's important that my people drink it,' he explains. The bartender, who has over 25 years' experience developing cocktails and a deep knowledge of tequila production, notes that one of the reasons he chose to be an ambassador for Tequila Cazadores is that it was the spirit his father drank.

You can't have authentic tequila without the best ingredients, and this comes down to the Blue Agave Tequilana Weber plant

Alan Ruesga-Pelayo, who also works as a brand ambassador for Tequila Cazadores and has extensive experience in mixology, says he too chose this brand for its commitment to Mexican tradition and authenticity.

He explains: 'As a Mexican, representing Cazadores is sharing heritage. We are a tequila that's been produced since 1922, we are real people, we share passion, tradition, we are welcoming and genuine. Tequila Cazadores is family for me.'

Manny points out that all the workers for Tequila Cazadores - from the fields to the distilleries - are considered family. He says: 'We don't call them 'employees' we call them 'primos' (the Spanish word for cousins).'

Although heritage and tradition play an important role, you can't have authentic tequila without the best ingredients, and this comes down to the agave plant.

As Tania noted, there are several strict regulations that the spirit must abide by to even be able to carry the tequila name. She says: 'Real tequila must be made in Mexico, in the appellation of origin region, following all the production steps established in Mexican law.'

Tequila Cazadores will go through seven-day fermentation to the music of Mozart, with a proprietary strain of yeast, which means that no other tequila will have the same tasting notes

The tequila made by Cazadores is matured in new American white oak barrels that have not touched any spirit to keep the flavor profile pure

To be named 'tequila', the spirit must contain at least 51 per cent blue agave, but experts agree that if you want authentic true tequila in its purest form, you need to pick one made with 100 per cent blue agave.

Jose Alejandro Ibanez, beverage manager at the Dilworth Tasting Room in Charlotte, North Carolina, explains: 'That means it is made with only cooked blue Weber agave and not a blend of agave distillate with neutral grain spirit or cane sugar spirit. This mixture makes what is called 'mixto' tequila (cheap).'

According to regulations, true tequila can be made in one of five Mexican states: Michoacan, Guanajuato, Tamaulipas, Nayarit and Jalisco.

Tania, who works as master tequilier for Tequila Cazadores, says: 'There are good tequilas from other states, but Jalisco has the strongest tradition of tequila production.

'Cazadores is proud to be made in Los Altos de Jalisco, where the soil is red, and the agave plants have the fame of being big, juicy and sweet with delicious fruity notes.'

It's not just the quality of the plant that creates the best tequila, but it's also the people who farm it and the land it's grown on.

All the workers for Tequila Cazadores - from the fields to the distilleries - are considered family

To be named 'tequila', the spirit must contain at least 51 per cent blue agave, but experts agree that if you want authentic tequila, you need to pick one with 100 per cent blue agave

Jose Alejandro emphasizes just how important it is that tequila producers respect the land and local communities.

He says: 'Social responsibility is important because if we keep exploiting the agave fields the way we do now and not contributing to the welfare of the people working the grounds, there will be a huge tequila shortage.

'This will affect not only the Mexican culture and its economy, but also the US. We might not be able to find REAL tequila anywhere in the world for several years.'

Jose Maria adds: 'You shouldn't harvest agave without allowing a percentage of the plant to mature all the way and spread the seeds, or without planting more agaves to replace the ones harvested. Especially when so many Mexican families depend on this as source of income.'

Alan, who grew up in Jalisco in the city of Guadalajara, notes that since Tequila Cazadores was founded in 1922 it has been part of the Arandas community in the Los Altos highlands. He says: 'We work with local farmers to support the community and only harvest fully mature agave.

Although tequila can be made in one of five Mexican states, Jalisco is the state with strongest tradition as a tequila producer

The best tequila producers will focus on respecting the land and the plant that grows on it

'We begin our production process on the same day of the harvest and place an emphasis on giving back to the land. The specifications we give to our local farmers ensure our tequila has sweeter notes, not bitter ones.'

The best, most authentic tequilas are then subject to a careful distillation process to bring out a unique, pure flavor.

For example, Tequila Cazadores's seven-day fermentation process includes being played the music of Mozart. The brand also use a proprietary strain of yeast, which means that no other tequila will have the same tasting notes.

Fermentation is followed by slow double distillation (24 hours in total) to separate the liquid components and keep only the best, then maturation in new American white oak barrels that have not touched any spirit other than Cazadores, to keep the flavor profile pure.

Significantly, both the farming and distilling processes are completely green from beginning to end. Alan says: 'As the popularity of tequila grows, it is more important than ever to implement sustainable solutions to ensure the future of the industry.'

The tequila-making process for Tequila Cazadores is green right from the start to the finish

So, if you're looking for the most authentic tequila, you'll need to assess its eco-friendly credentials.

Tania uses the example of Cazadores' environmentally friendly extraction process, free from chemicals, that reduces the agave waste dramatically in comparison to other milling processes.

She adds: 'The agave fibers that we obtain after the extraction process are burnt in our biomass boiler to create our own energy for the distillery. Also, our facilities use solar light and our residual liquids are treated and discarded in an ecological way.

'Finally, Cazadores collaborates with local initiatives of the city of Arandas, like planting trees, cleaning the streets, and sponsoring its local festivities.'

Ultimately, authenticity comes down to a passion for the plant and an understanding of the communities that proudly produce a premium spirit - something you'll find not in the Hollywood hills, but nestled in the highlands of Jalisco.

Manny says: 'It's important to care about the land, care about the plant and care about the community. That's how you'll get the best tequila.'


Larking about beside a swimming pool and creeping up on a tethered vulture while impersonating David Attenborough is hardly the sort of footage you'd expect to find on the smartphone of a terrorist.

But these videos are among thousands of clips and photographs recovered from the hard drive of a device used by three young British men who fled to Syria to join the Islamic State group.

Obtained by a Sunday Times Middle East correspondent, the contents have been shared with BBC Three for a new documentary - Secrets of an ISIS Smartphone - and provide an unexpected, extraordinary insight into the lives of these British jihadis.

'It looks like they're in Magaluf or something, but then they've got these guns. That's not Magaluf,' journalist Mobeen Azhar observed as he watched the poolside antics of Choukri Ellekhlifi, a British Moroccan who lived Edgware Road before travelling to Syria aged 22 in 2012 - one of first wave of Britons to join the war.

Ellekhlifi was wanted for burglary after using a taser to rob people in Belgravia to fund his trip to the Middle East, but skipped bail under the guise of attending a family funeral.

Choukri Ellekhlifi, a British Moroccan who lived Edgware Road before travelling to Syria aged 22 in 2012 - one of first wave of Britons to join the war, is seen larking about by a pool holding an AK-47

These videos are among thousands of clips and photographs recovered from the hard drive of a device used by three young British men who fled to Syria to join the Islamic State group, obtained by a Sunday Times Middle East correspondent and shared with BBC Three for a new documentary - Secrets of an ISIS Smartphone

Choukri Ellekhlifi is seen practising throwing a grenade in footage found on the smartphone

Obtained by a Sunday Times Middle East correspondent, the contents have been shared with BBC Three for a new documentary - Secrets of an ISIS Smartphone - and provide an unexpected, extraordinary insight into the lives of these British jihadis. Pictured: journalist Mobeen Azhar

In the stag do-esque video, Ellekhlifi is seen preparing to do a flip into the pool, putting down his AK-47 and shouting to the person filming: 'You got me? A mujahideen!' to which the camera man replies: 'I got you, man.'

In one clip he's seen creeping up on a tethered vulture, narrating the scene as if it's a nature documentary. In another he practiced throwing a grenade, celebrating when he hit his target and lapping up the praise like a teacher's pet.

'It's farcical, silly, it's so British - he's trying to sound like an old white dude,' Mobeen remarked. 'He looks and sounds like a kid, with a massive gun in his hand.

'Grown men around you telling you how great you are, that's grooming. All this adoration, people cheering, it's textbook. What they're saying is, you're part of this gang now.'

Ellekhlifi was the first to use the phone in 2013 after leaving his home near the A40 flyover in West London to join 14 other men, known as the 'Westway warriors', who had left for Syria from that area.

He attended the same school as Mohammed Emwazi, better known as Jihadi John, another 'Westway warrior' and leader of the so called 'ISIS Beatles' - a group of terrorists made famous by a series of beheading videos.

The swimming pool Ellekhlifi was seen diving into during his Jihadi fantasy holiday was also used by Alexander Kotey - another of the ISIS Beatles known as Jihadi Ringo.

In one clip Ellekhlifi is seen creeping up on a tethered vulture, narrating the scene as if it's a nature documentary

Ellekhlifi was killed fighting alongside Al Qaeda-linked extremists in Syria in 2013. Mobeen questions whether, had he lived, he'd have ended up as one of the Beatles.

During the documentary a youth worker attempted to explain why the Westway area lost so many seemingly normal young men to the caliphate.

'The last number that I heard, and there's a lot of assumption, we lost around 26 from West London,' she told Mobeen, adding that the common denominators were age, gender and being born to immigrant parents.

'Were they violent? No. Were they raised in very strict, conservative households? No. The media, various influences on TV, programming, identifies these young men as the new folk devil, they're the new thing that's wrong with the world. So these young men, what are they going to do? They're going to connect what somebody is saying to them, "do you know why this is happening to you? I will listen, come to me",' she said.

'They are groomed and told in certain circles, come and sit with us because you're welcome here.'

Fatlum Shalaku, the son of Kosovan Albanian parents, who was 18 when he left North Kensington for Syria, is also among the men believed to have used the phone. He was killed in Iraq in 2015 aged 19

Asked about the first warning signs, she explained how they tend to retreat from society and become reserved, refusing to take part in any activities that include the opposite sex.

'Of the 26 that were lost in this area, I honestly believe that so many more have been saved by the work that was done,' she added.

Mobeen made contact with Ellekhlifi's brother, who was 'icy' and unwilling to talk on the record because he is 'p***** with the way the story's been told'. The journalist pointed out there's no positive spin to put on someone travelling to join a terrorist organisation.

Fatlum Shalaku, the son of Kosovan Albanian parents, who was 18 when he left North Kensington for Syria, is also among the men believed to have used the phone. He was killed in Iraq in 2015 aged 19.

Mobeen likens another clip showing Shalaku 'throwing up gang signs like a London boy' while posing with a machine gun to a scene from the film Four Lions

'He liked the gym and he liked the camera. To me, some of these pictures looked more boyband than soldier,' Mobeen remarked while browsing through its contents. 'Fatlum even had time to flex for the camera while he was out in a war zone.'

Mobeen likened another clip showing Shalaku 'throwing up gang signs like a London boy' while posing with a machine gun to a scene from the film Four Lions.

'Fatlum is waving the gun around like it's a prop but it's not, it's a real gun,' he said. 'None of this is slick. It's like a roadman acting out Call of Duty, it's like an ISIS bloopers reel. This is the side of ISIS you never get to see.'

Neighbours of Shalaku said his family couldn't cope with what happened so they moved away, but Mobeen does speak to a school friend of his, Zak, who describes them as 'quiet, lovely people'.

'Their smile, you know when you can tell a person's aura, that they're just always humble and nice,' he recalled.

Zak suggested Shalaku's decision to travel to Syria was inspired by a sense of injustice: 'I heard a rumour that Fatlum went actually to help people, so I think his mind got mangled and warped into a place where he believed what he was doing may have been right.

At the end of the documentary Mobeen speaks to a close friend of British Jihadi Muhammad Mehdi Hassan, pictured, who also fled to join ISIS

'The cause of why they went out there, for me it was anger... after 2001 [the 9/11 Twin Towers terrorist attack] so much animosity came, I think it changed, it drew Islam out.

'If you're looking at the TV and the countries you're from, all you see in them is soldiers from America or Britain, going there and literally droning the place, dropping bombs on schools, people get angry about that. They got angry, they went there and it's a violent place, violence happens.'

Hassan, 19, attended St John's College, a Catholic school in Portsmouth, which charges 10,000 a year for day pupils. He travelled to Syria in October 2013

Zak pointed out that, a week before Shalaku blew himself up on a suicide mission during ISIS's successful assault on Ramadi, Iraq, in 2015, his brother - who had also travelled to Syria - was shot in the head.

'I know that was at the point that my man Fatlum retaliated by driving the truck into an Iraqi compound and exploding it,' Zak said.

'Fatlum left a trail of utter destruction amongst their families, their community, their friends, but I pray for them, I pray for mercy.'

Mobeen told how ISIS presented Fatlum's suicide attack as a calculated and pious act of war. 'More likely it was about the despair of losing his brother,' he mused.

'The ISIS propaganda machine... mastered manipulation, presenting murder like it was justice, they flipped everything on its head.'

Neuroscientist Dr Nafi Samid, who has scanned the brains of extremists, theorised that extremist ideology is able to disable critical thinking.

At the end of the documentary Mobeen spoke to a close friend of British Jihadi Muhammad Mehdi Hassan, who also fled to join ISIS.

The 20-year-old former private school pupil from Southsea, Portsmouth is also believed to have used the phone, using his tech knowledge to offer online tips to new recruits planning to join jihad in Syria.

Before he left he'd received an offer from Surrey University to study international politics after achieving A,A,B grades in his A Levels, but had taken a year out.

Before he left he'd received an offer from Surrey University to study international politics after achieving A,A,B grades in his A Levels, but had taken a year out

While in Syria he kept in touch with his old friends and appeared to be flirting with the idea of coming home, asking questions about a UCAS password and insisting in his Twitter bio that he was not a terrorist. At one point he even claimed to be a photo journalist.

Hassan, who used the alias Abu Dujana, died in 2014 after trying to escape Syria. He was captured only minutes away from meeting his mother across the Turkish border.

The family confirmed Hassan had died in the Syrian Kurdish town of Kobani after a picture of his body emerged on Twitter.

Hassan's friend claimed the teenager was 'woke' and travelled to Syria to 'help' before trying to come home - and admitted his death was 'the worst moment of his life'.

'I knew him growing up, we were kids,' he recalled. 'He was what we would call today, back then, woke. He genuinely just wanted to go out there and help.

'I didn't really see him the last few months. It was weird because it's a small community. One year he was one person and the next year he was a different guy.

Hassan was one of five friends from Portsmouth who pretended to go on holiday to Turkey but instead went to fight for Islamic State in Syria. The group were caught on CCTV at London's Gatwick Airport (pictured)

Mobeen also makes contact with Hassan's mother who, within five minutes of speaking to him off camera, was in tears

'That's the worst thing, he had like a change of heart and he wanted to come back. He was asking if anyone knew any lawyers and things like that.

'He did message me once on Facebook saying he loved me and he was like, "The prophet said if you love someone you should always tell them," and I didn't know what to say back to that, and that's one of the things that eats me up because I was like, I just wish he knew that I loved him too.

'When it came to his death, that was probably the worst moment of my life. I got sent this tweet and photos of his dead face and people just swearing and things like that, and that's the part that f***** me up because I was like s***, he's actually dead, and as one of his real friends I blamed myself.

'I felt like I should have been there for him and could have stopped him in some way, and that ate me up for some time, even to this day.'

Mobeen also made contact with Hassan's mother who, within five minutes of speaking to him off camera, was in tears.

'She said we're not that kind of family, we're a middle class family, we all work, my other son is going to uni, Mehdi had taken a year out, he got AAB,' Mobeen described.

'She is broken. She didn't know what was going on his life, she was always busy doing "mum things".'

Speaking about the documentary, Mobeen said: 'I want this film to contribute to the ever-important discussion about what fuels violent extremism and what could be done to stop more lives being torn apart in this way.'

BBC Three's Secrets of an ISIS Smartphone will be available on BBC iPlayer from 6am on Thursday 15 July.
She's a glamorous award-winning actress, but on Monday Gillian Anderson vowed to never wear a bra again after lockdown because they are 'too uncomfortable'.

Gillian, 52, joked she doesn't care if her breasts 'reach her belly button' but that she's 'too lazy' to wear the undergarment when hosting an Instagram Live in which she answered various questions from her 1.8million fans.

But it appears the actress is hardly ahead of the curve, since middle aged women all over the world have taken a similar stand against wearing bras - with one on Twitter explaining that she hasn't worn one for 20 years.

And in June, an American blogger took to Instagram to declare she was 'ditching the bra', explaining: 'Its so liberating and Im living my best life. I feel so free.'

Middle aged women all over the world have taken a similar stand to Gillian Anderson against wearing bras. Pictured, one Instagram user explaining how she's going bra free

In June, an American blogger (pictured) took to Instagram to declare she was 'ditching the bra', explaining: 'Its so liberating and Im living my best life. I feel so free'

A British Instagram user showcases her new look after stating she would be abandoning bras

On Monday, one fan asked The Crown star to explain what her go-to outfit was during lockdown and she provided a very comical response.

As she sat on her sofa in Atlanta, she explained: 'It's probably the same one as my out of lockdown outfit. I mean, I've gotten so lazy and I don't wear a bra any more. I can't wear a bra. I can't, no, I can't. I'm sorry.

'I don't care if my breasts reach my belly button, I'm not wearing a bra any more. It's just too f***ing uncomfortable. So yeah, comfortable black track pants and a matching hoodie. I'd wear that every day if I could.'

Her words have since sparked a flurry of people on social media explaining they plan to follow in her footsteps and ditch their bras - while others admit they've already binned the undergarments.

Liberating: Gillian Anderson vowed to never wear a bra again after lockdown because they are too uncomfortable and joked she doesn't care if her breasts 'reach her belly button'

Reaction: Her words have since sparked a flurry of people on social media explaining they plan to follow in her footsteps and ditch their bras - while others admit they've already binned the undergarments

'I haven't worn a bra in at least 20 years. If men had to wear jockstraps held up by suspenders every day, they would understand what women go through,' one American Twitter user wrote.

Another said: 'Cheers to Gillian Anderson for saying out loud what so many of us women already think/do. No more bras!'

'Preach! I ditched my bras at the start of the pandemic and haven't looked back!, a third wrote.

Kat Parks, from Miami, previously asked people for a 'a good reason why women are expected to cage their breasts in oppressive bras'

Meanwhile, JC Page shared her own braless snap as she urged others to 'normalise not wearing a bra' in a caption alongside her Instagram post

Another woman from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, took to Instagram to reveal that she has been 'bra free' for a year, writing : '365 days bra free!!! And continuing... Let freedom reign'

Michelle Vickers (pictured), 56, from London, said she has stopped wearing underwired bras since the Covid-19 lockdown hit and urged other women to ditch their 'painful' bras

Michelle Vickers, 56, from London, previously told FEMAIL that she stopped wearing underwired bras during the Covid-19 lockdown and urged other women to ditch 'painful' bras in favour of something more comfortable.

EXPERTS SAY GOING BRALESS MAY CAUSE DAMAGE TO COOPER'S LIGAMENT Victoria Shelton, Garment Technologist at www.Figleaves.com, previously told FEMAIL that if breasts are unsupported they could suffer damage to the Cooper's Ligament, the connective tissue in the breast that help maintain structural integrity. Garment Technologist Victoria said: 'Our wardrobe needs have changed as we find ourselves at home. But we all still need to wear a bra as our breasts need to be supported  due to their weight you may damage your posture or have back pain if your breasts aren't fully supported. 'If breasts are left unsupportive damage can occur to the coopers ligament in the breast, causing them to sag.' And Dr Riccardo Frati of Frati Cosmetic Surgery explained that bras are important in maintaining support as breasts tend to sag over time due to gravity and age. He told FEMAIL: The bra will always support and hold up the breasts and not wearing one can affect the Coopers ligament. Breasts will also naturally sag over time due to age and gravity.' Meanwhile Anna Akerlund, head of sales at Luxury French underwear brand Lousia Bracq, explained that going without a bra could affect your posture - especially for large breasted women - and the shape of your breasts. She said: 'There are so many benefits and few excuses not to wear a well fitted bra; posture, comfort and the enhanced curvature. 'Putting on a well fitted bra should feel like you are not wearing a bra. Everything held in the right place with the right amount of support to the breast and shoulder that also provides an enhanced shape. This is especially important for women who require larger cup-sizes.' Advertisement

The CEO of the Head and Neck Cancer Foundation said before lockdown, she would constantly have a dent in her shoulder from 'uncomfortable' underwire bras, a problem which disappeared when she stopped wearing 'proper bras'.

She revealed that she will 'never' go back to sporting the 'agonising' bras that she used to wear after switching to more comfortable alternatives during lockdown.

Michelle said although she has not gone braless, because she needs to wear bras everyday as she is 'big busted', she has swapped her underwire bras for 'comfy' and soft T-shirt bras.

She explained: 'Before lockdown, I used to have that dent in my shoulder and I don't have that anymore.

'And I had this permanent dent in my shoulder, which I don't have anymore! And it's simply because for the last year, I have not been wearing proper bras.

Michelle explained that lockdown made her realise she doesn't want to wear bras that cause her pain, saying she believes other women will feel the same way as they return to in-office working.

The Women's Aid trustee continued: 'I don't want to spend a minute having to think about it and run my hands under my boobs where it's digging into me or rubbing my shoulders because of the strap marks.

She added: 'Let's be more thoughtful about our underwear and the need for it. If you don't need to wear a bra, don't bloody wear one.

'Even if you've got big boobs and you feel comfortable without one, just don't wear one.

She added: 'I asked my other girlfriends, who are all different ages and shapes and sizes, and everyone of them said the same thing - that nobody is wearing 'proper' pre-lockdown bras and that everyone has gone to these soft bras.

'Which to be really honest if I'd seen someone in one of those soft bras I would have said "what's wrong with them, why aren't they looking after their breasts properly and having them propped up properly where they should be".

'But cleavage isn't everything. It's so funny I used to think cleavage was everything because I have nice big boobs, but cleavage isn't everything,' she said.

'There's other parts of you, including your personality, that's more important than that.'
Whisper it quietly, but whatever has happened to the joy of motherhood? The place where mothers live today, as portrayed in the hugely popular BBC TV series Motherland and Martin Freemans hit sitcom Breeders on Sky, is not somewhere I recognise from my own three decades of parenting.

Its a foreign country to me, populated by selfish, angry, ghastly mothers who whinge and whine and endlessly complain about their lot  even though they are mostly middle-class and live in million-pound homes.

I can see that these shows are often funny (the acting is exemplary), and I understand that the characters are exaggerated for comic effect, but the overall picture they paint of motherhood is depressing and bleak.

I probably wear rose-tinted glasses, looking back at what seem to be the good old days of being a mummy.

Jane Gordon (pictured with her son Rufus) says the trend to denigrate motherhood started as an antidote to the growing pressure put on this generation of women to be perfect mothers

But can modern motherhood really be as miserable and mean as it seems at the school gates in Motherland, where our heroine, self-serving Julia, interacts with the vile, vain Amanda and the idiotic token house-husband Kevin?

Is life as a parent as terrible as mum Ally makes it seem in Breeders? Who is happy with two children under seven? she comments in season one.

This worrying perception of motherhood as a tedious chore isnt limited to TV, it is echoed everywhere.

I dont doubt that there are serious parenting manuals on the shelves of Waterstones, but they seem to be outnumbered  and definitely outsold  by tomes that humorously highlight the horror of motherhood.

Witness the phenomena of Gill Simss bestsellers. Her first, Why Mummy Drinks, was so successful, it spawned Why Mummy Swears, Why Mummy Doesnt Give A ****! and Why Mummy Is Sloshed. Other bibles of this oeuvre include Katie Kirbys Hurrah For Gin and Sarah Turners The Unmumsy Mum.

She said it is a pressure fuelled by the internet: the constant Mumsnet judgement and the endless images of impossibly perfect mums on Instagram. Pictured: Jane and her son Rufus in Scotland when he was about 12

I understand how this trend to denigrate motherhood started. It was an antidote to the growing pressure put on this generation of women to be perfect mothers, a pressure fuelled by the internet: the constant Mumsnet judgement, the endless images of impossibly perfect mums on Instagram and a continuing lack of gender equality in the burden of childcare.

I get all that. I am not blind to the difficulties of parenting. Being a mother can be tough and often brain-numbingly boring. But it is also, I think, the best it gets.

I never felt more satisfied at the end of the day than I did when my children were small. The negatives of being a mum  the squabbling, the demands, the lack of sleep  were more than compensated for by the positives: the love and laughter my children brought into my life.

I did my fair share of moaning during the teenage years (as my elder daughter Bryony, now a brilliant mum, will attest), but it never made me regret for a single second my choice to become a mother.

However, she asks, can modern motherhood really be as miserable as it seems in the BBC's Motherland with our heroine, self-serving Julia (pictured)?

And the friendships I forged at my ante-natal group and, later, at the school gates  unlike those strange alliances in Motherland  are some of the strongest and enduring I have ever made.

My generation of mothers may seem to our daughters to have had an easier time, but we, too, had to wrestle with the notion of having it all. Around 66 per cent of mums worked full or part-time in the 1990s, with even less hands-on childcare support from our partners than mothers today.

Motherhood, for all but the very few, can be a struggle. But it is also a wondrous privilege. And that side of it is, sadly, rarely acknowledged today.

Indeed, the overwhelming view of childrearing right now is so negative that it could well threaten the future birth rate. If Motherland were on a commercial TV channel, itd be the perfect marketing spot for Durex ads.

Last month, a friend of my daughter announced on social media the pregnancy of her first child. She was shocked that there were as many commiserations as congratulations, ranging from Good luck, you are going to need it to Say goodbye to sleep for the next eight years and So much for your career!

Jane says motherhood, for all but the very few, can be a struggle. But it is also a wondrous privilege. And that side of it is, sadly, rarely acknowledged today. Pictured: Cast of Motherland (L-R) Anne, Liz, Julia, Kevin and Amanda

We have even reached a state when a joyful picture of two women interacting with a baby on a beach prompts an outcry of savage scorn on social media. In response to the images of Dr Jill Biden and Carrie Johnson playing with toddler Wilfred in Cornwall last month, one woman posted: I cant help feeling I woke up in the 1950s.

Other comments included: Everything about this has been making me cry out in horror, its been so demeaning for them all and Why didnt she get a ****ing babysitter?

While it may have been a cynical photo opportunity, and even if it did have subliminal back in the kitchen vibes, there is no denying that the delight on Carries face was genuine.

That look made me see beyond the politics of the picture because it is a look I often see on the face of my daughter and my nieces when they are enchanted by something their own children have done.

And it is the look we so often see on the face of the Duchess of Cambridge when she is with her three  most recently noted on Sunday night when she so warmly and naturally celebrated with Prince George when England scored against Italy.

That look is the true face of motherhood, not Julias perpetual snarl on Motherland.

Hurrah for mothers!
NO

By Amanda Craig

Even if we all long for a week away right now, holidaying with ones children is a terrible idea.

I dont mean when they are little and sweet, and wake up at 5am demanding cuddles in bed, or even when they are slightly older, boundlessly curious yet still resisting any food other than pasta and pizza. I mean when they are grown-up.

A few years ago, I wrote a comic novel called Love In Idleness, about three children who intervene in adult affairs on a summer holiday in Tuscany so that, by the end, their parents all end up divorced.

The nightmare then was coping with pre-adolescent kids; now, it is about holidaying with our adult ones.

Amanda Craig (pictured) argues that when your offspring are in their 20s, they have better things to do and she and her husband just want peace and quiet

I know Im the odd one out among my friends, who seem to seize any chance of seeing their kids, many of whom are now middle-aged.

I can understand this when grandchildren are added to the package. But when your offspring are in their 20s, they  and we surely have better things to do.

Our daughter and son, 28 and 25, want time alone with their partners or friends, and we, being in the second honeymoon stage of a long marriage, feel the same way. We dont share their taste for clubbing or festival-going or even drinking. We just need peace and quiet.

Finally, Ive earned the right to be selfish.

My husband and I mostly take lowkey holidays in places such as Cornwall. However, in the past few years, weve had two long-distance holidays of a lifetime  to South Africa and India  largely ruined by sharing them with our adult children. On both trips, we were struck by youthful emotional crises which clearly meant more to them than seeing a leopard or the Taj Mahal.

After the India experience, we all vowed never to go away together again.

Much as I adore my children, and think of them as talented, hard-working, good-hearted people whose company I enjoy, we all need independence from each other.

The fact is that as soon as you are with your children, everyone snaps back into the patterns formed when they were little, which means my husband and I do all the cooking, cleaning and driving, while our children take their ease. Its not a holiday  at least, not for us.

I feel we have at last earned the right to be selfish.

Amanda Craigs new novel The Golden Rule (8.99, Abacus) is out now.

YES

By Candida Crewe

The other day my eldest son, 23, was fantasising he was on a Caribbean island with a negroni in hand, some companions and nothing to do but stare at a lazy sea from a hammock hung between palm trees.

His parents did not feature in this dream. Of course not.

Many middle-aged parents dont necessarily want a holiday with their grown-up children either. But Im not one of them.

Of course, only the double-jabbed or under-18s will be able to enjoy a quarantine-free foreign holiday this summer. So the reality, for my brood at least, is less exotic but more desirable in a strange sort of way.

Meanwhile, Candida Crewe (pictured) says they deserve a holiday after so many months locked down

Every year from babyhood, I went to Norfolk on holiday with my parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and other families. There was shrimping on a deserted beach, sandy buns with plastic-tasting ham at lunchtime, barbecues in the dunes at dusk. It was a model I wanted to recreate for my own children.

My eldest son was four weeks old when we first took him. Ever since, our three boys, now aged 23, 21 and 19, have joined their parents, grandparents and my sister and her family on exactly the same holiday. Even during their grumpy teenage years. And even after their father and I divorced. They still join us now when they can.

Amazingly, it is an annual break which we all consider sacrosanct.

The boys seem to love the accumulated memories, the sense of continuity and the relief of briefly stepping away from their own social lives as well as their working ones.

My boys are messy, but its part of the joy.

For me, as for them, it is all about familiarity, family, the reassuring nature of time and place. Had we planned to go abroad together this year, there would be complications as to how many jabs we had each had. But I feel they deserve a holiday after so many months locked down, so a PCR-free staycation is bang on the money  and where lovelier than Norfolk?

The boys regress to their noisy, messy, occasionally bolshie selves, but that is all part of the joy.

They play with their young cousins, aged just five and ten. They drink and stay up till 3am and sleep till lunchtime. I go out for an early run on the beach and gossip peacefully in the kitchen with my mother, step-father, sister and brother-in-law till noon.

We all sink automatically into old rhythms that have built and adapted organically over the years.

We keep going back to Norfolk and, for all our expressions of frustration, I dont think any of us would have it any other way.
Forget popping out to do the food shop; the race is on for retailers to get your groceries to your front door at lightning speed.

Thanks to the pandemic sparking a surge in online shopping, a host of new firms that claim to deliver your food in ten minutes are springing up across Britain  and now supermarkets are getting in on the act.

This month, Asda became the latest to offer customers shopping to them in less than an hour, following on from Tesco and Sainsburys.

The latest ultra-fast operators, including Zapp and Weezy, distribute orders from so-called dark stores, set up in retail spaces such as railway arches, in densely populated areas, having bought their stock chiefly from wholesalers.

A host of new firms that claim to deliver your food in ten minutes are springing up across Britain  and now supermarkets are getting in on the act. So, is rapid grocery delivery set to revolutionise our shopping habits?

Meanwhile supermarket services tend to use pickers based at their local stores and then distribute the goods via established fast delivery firms such as Deliveroo, Amazon and UberEats.

So, is rapid grocery delivery set to revolutionise our shopping habits?

To find out, TANITH CAREY ordered shopping basics from some of the best known to her North London home, and set her stopwatch to find out who wins the great grocery race . . .

THE SUPERMARKETS

Tesco Whoosh

Promise: One hour

Reality: 30 minutes

Delivery Fees: 5, with an additional 2 for baskets under 15

Available: Areas near 12 stores in London, Bristol and Wolverhampton

After a trial in the Midlands, Tesco is broadening the reach of its express delivery service Whoosh. But as it offers a choice of 1,700 of Tescos most popular items, its more for top-ups than a full shop.

As well as the 5 delivery fee, theres also a price for such speed. An 800g loaf of Hovis Original 7 Seeds bread was 1.75 on Whoosh, but only 1.60 on Tesco online.

Still, getting supermarket shopping so fast is impressive  in this case my supplies were delivered on a bike in half an hour from a nearby Tesco Metro.

To find out, Tanith Carey (pictured) ordered shopping basics from some of the best known to her North London home, and set her stopwatch

Asda

Promise: 1 hour

Reality: 1 hour and 20 minutes

Delivery fees: 8

Available: If you live within a three-mile radius of the Halifax, Rotherham and Poole branches

With its new trial, Asda is the last of the big four supermarkets to jump on the express delivery bandwagon.

But its going large by being the first to offer customers the chance to select from a whopping 30,000 items  the widest choice yet  and all at their usual prices.

While other services put a size limit on orders because they are often brought by bike, Asda customers can get up to 70 items within the hour.

As this was unavailable to me in London, Jill, who lives in West Yorkshire, road tested it. We went for a 2.30pm to 3.30pm slot.

At 2.38pm, we got a text saying the driver was on his way and at 2.48pm, a man in a non-branded car handed us three bags of shopping all in good condition.

Aldi (Via Deliveroo)

Promise: 30 minutes

Reality: 10 minutes

Delivery fees: 4.99, plus a service fee of 5 per cent of your order for Deliveroo

Available: Via Deliveroo to customers within 6km of 120 stores across the country

Even though its a major supermarket, the chain amazingly beat even its smaller rivals by getting my groceries  picked up at my local Aldi less than a mile away  to me in just ten minutes.

You order via the Deliveroo website or app.

Having placed my order at 12.57pm, at 1.07pm a courier handed me my groceries in mint condition.

However, buy the triple-cooked chips this way and they will cost you 2.15  buy them from Aldi online and wait a day and they will only cost 1.79.

She found that Aldi (Via Deliveroo) amazingly beat even its smaller rivals by getting her groceries  picked up at a local Aldi less than a mile away  to her in just ten minutes

CO-OP

PROMISE: Within two hours

REALITY: 2 hours

DELIVERY FEES: 1.99 and carrier bags at 20p each

AVAILABLE: 600 branches across the country

There are a generous 6,000 product lines to choose from when you order from the Co-op two- hour delivery service.

But the good news is, unlike several other supermarket chains, they are the same price as if Id bought them myself.

To get my groceries within a two-hour time slot, I needed to spend a minimum of 15. I ordered at 1.10pm but as the next window had already expired, I had to go for between 3pm and 4pm. The groceries arrived just after 3pm.

. . . AND THE NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK ZAPP Promise: Within 20 minutes Reality: 14 minutes Delivery Fees: 1.80 but free delivery on orders over 30 Available: Areas of London and Manchester This app offers an easy to use grid of more than 1,000 curated offerings heavy on snacks, ice cream and alcohol. In my case there is one in Hornsey, just over a mile away. Having pressed confirm on my phone at 1.16pm, theres a knock on the door 14 minutes later  Im delighted to find everything arrived safe and sound. WEEZY Promise: 15 minutes Reality: 19 minutes Delivery Fee: 2.95 Available: Parts of London, Bristol, Brighton, Hove, Salford and Manchester Weezy calls itself the 15-minute supermarket, and appears to be positioning itself as the Waitrose of the super-speedy delivery services, saying it works with renowned wholesalers and sources its fruit daily from New Covent Garden Market. It sells meals from Pasta Evangelists for 10. But a four-pack of Budweiser beers costs 5, compared with 4 at Tesco. And at 19 minutes, this took longer than the other apps  and four minutes longer than promised. Advertisement

Sainsburys (via UberEats)

PROMISE: 20 minutes

REALITY: 39 minutes

DELIVERY FEES: Service fees totalling 2.08, a service fee of 10 per cent of orders to Deliveroo up to a maximum of 2.99, and small order fee of 3 on orders under 20

AVAILABLE: 55 stores across London, and in 37 other towns across the UK

There are two ways to get Sainsburys shopping fast. Either you use its app, Chop Chop, which promises 20 items within an hour for a minimum spend of 15 and a 4.99 delivery fee. Or if you want your shopping quicker, you can use UberEats.

But because three of my items were sold out, my order was cut back from around 22 to just 17.90, which annoyingly meant I got charged a 3 small basket fee, as well as a service fee of 1.79. Considering it came from a Sainsburys Local about two minutes away, the 40-minute delivery was on the sluggish side.

Waitrose (via Deliveroo)

PROMISE: 20 minutes

REALITY: 16 minutes

DELIVERY FEES: Up to 4.99 depending on where you live, plus a service fee of 5 per cent of your order to Deliveroo

Available: At 86 Waitrose locations across the country

The challenges of starting an express food delivery have been underlined by the fact Waitrose has just closed its same-day service, Rapid. Instead, it has switched to using Deliveroo.

I placed my order at 12.25pm.

At 12.40pm, I got a message saying my delivery driver was four minutes away  he arrived on his electric bike in just two.

The groceries were the best-packed of all.

Morrisons (via Amazon)

PROMISE: Same-day delivery with two hour time slots

REALITY: 2 hours 46 minutes

Delivery Fees: 3.99 for orders under 40, and free over 40

AVAILABLE: In more than half of all postcodes across thecountry

Morrisons has opted to partner Amazon.

Its not easy to see how much choice there really is, though Morrisons says there are 15,000 products available  and that they keep prices the same.

When I ordered 14 items for around 26, they arrived within three hours, courtesy of a man in an unbranded car who said hed come from the Chingford branch 12 miles away.

Additional reporting by Jill Foster
A mum-of-two has been praised for her immaculately organised pantry - but some couldn't look past the spaghetti and pasta stored in the wrong containers.

Emma, from Melbourne, shared pictures of her neatly stacked pantry, with rows upon rows of perfectly labelled containers and snack tubs and shelves arranged based on categories.

But upon closer inspection, some mums noticed a tiny detail about the containers.

A mum-of-two has been praised for her immaculately organised pantry - but some couldn't look past the spaghetti and pasta being in the wrong containers

'Did you know the spaghetti is in the wrong container? Otherwise, this look very neat and organised,' one woman wrote.

While another agreed, saying: 'I was wondering why the spaghetti and pasta were in the wrong container.'

The pictures show the rigatoni stored in a container labelled 'spaghetti' while the spaghetti was in the 'pasta' container.

However, most mums weren't fazed about the spaghetti mix-up, with many declaring she had the pantry of their dreams.

'Definite pantry goals,' one wrote.

Another said: 'What a dreamy pantry! So fabulous,' while another added: 'Pantry goals for sure! This is amazing.'

Emma, from Melbourne, shared pictures of her neatly stacked pantry, with rows upon rows of perfectly labelled containers and snack tubs and shelves arranged based on categories. But upon closer inspection, some noticed the spaghetti and pasta were in the wrong containers

The mum said she organised her pantry using budget items from Kmart - including $3 clip containers, food storage containers ranging from $3 to $7 and $10 pantry storer on wheels.

'I chose a clear large bold font with a glossy black finish. I can't begin to tell you how much easier it is to get something out of the pantry,' she said.

'All the containers and snack tubs in my pantry are from Kmart.'
Former leaders of a controversial gay conversion program who struggled with their own 'same-sex attractions' have opened up about their regrets over participating in the harmful therapy in a new Netflix documentary.

Premiering on August 3, Pray Away chronicles the rise of the 'ex-gay movement' with a focus on Exodus International, an Evangelical ministry that claimed to be able to 'cure' people of their homosexual desires.

In the powerful trailer for the film produced by Ryan Murphy and Jason Blum for Blumhouse Television, former advocates for gay conversation therapy detail how suicide attempts and panic attacks were brought on by the pseudoscientific practice.

Must watch: Netflix's new documentary Pray Away chronicles the rise of the 'ex-gay movement'

Investigation: Premiering on August 3, the upcoming film focuses on Exodus International, an Evangelical ministry that claimed to be able to 'cure' homosexuality

Exodus International began as a Bible study in the 1970s. Its five founders were all struggling with being gay in the Evangelical church, and they started the group to help each other leave the 'homosexual lifestyle.'

After receiving over 25,000 letters from people asking for help, they formally launched Exodus International, which went on to become the largest conversion therapy organization in the world.

The Florida-based ministry was shuttered in 2013, with then-president Alan Chambers issuing an apology to the LGBTQ community for the 'pain and hurt' the program had caused, having himself renounced conversion therapy.

Like many members of the organization, Chambers, who has a wife and children, had himself lived a 'gay lifestyle' before marrying a woman. In 2015, he admitted to The Atlantic that he was 'still attracted to men', but insisted that he and his wife Leslie had a 'healthy marriage with a robust sex life'.

John Paulk, a gay man who was an advocate for the ex-gay movement in the late 1990s and early 2000s, recounts his experience in the documentary's trailer.

Looking back: John Paulk, a gay man who was an advocate for the ex-gay movement, opens up in the trialer about his regret over being a 'figurehead' for conversion therapy

Repressed: Paulk was an advocate for gay conversion therapy in the late 1990s and early 2000s, claiming it worked on him

Truth: 'I ached to be loved  and to love a man,' he says, looking back at his time with Exodus International

'I became a figurehead for this movement. My role was to get the message out. Homosexuality was changeable,' he says, adding: 'I ached to be loved  and to love a man.'

Paulk is among the former leaders and outreach members of Exodus International who have disavowed the movement and accepted their LGBTQ identity.

'We were the leaders of the ex-gay movement. We believed that something must have happened to "make you gay,' another man explains in the trailer. 'We had guys that attempted suicide because they felt guilty that they couldn't change.'

The film teaser features footage of conversion therapy meetings and the questionnaires that people had to fill out as part of the program.

Harm: 'We believed that something must have happened to "make you gay,' another man says. 'We had guys that attempted suicide because they felt guilty that they couldn't change'

Spreading: Exodus International began as a Bible study in the 1970s and went on to become the largest conversion therapy organization in the world before it shuttered in 2013

Bogus therapy: The film teaser features footage of conversion therapy meetings and the questionnaires that people had to fill out as part of the program

Then and now: Former Exodus International director Yvette Cantu Schneider notes in the trailer that 'the same-sex attractions, those never went away'

'I spent a lot of time thinking how did I believe that?' says former Exodus International director Yvette Cantu Schneider, who was in same-sex relationships until she found Christianity.

Cantu Schneider was a vocal representative of the anti-gay movement before she renounced her work and became an advocate for the LGBTQ community.

'I started having panic attacks,' she recalls in the trailer. 'The same-sex attractions, those never went away.'

Former conversion therapy poster-child Julie Rodgers was a celibate gay Christian from the ages of 17 to 26 before she helped shut down Exodus International.

Out: Julie Rodgers was a celibate gay Christian from the ages of 17 to 26 before she helped close Exodus International

Misled: 'I went to my first Exodus conference when I was 17 years old,' she recalls. 'I remember feeling like this is the path to be good'

New message: 'We are killing ourselves by not embracing who God created us to be,' says Randy Thomas, the former vice president of Exodus International who came out as gay

'I went to my first Exodus conference when I was 17 years old,' she recalls in the film. 'I remember feeling like this is the path to be good.'

The trailer also features Randy Thomas, the former vice president of Exodus International who renounced his past work and apologized for his actions last year when he announced his engagement to a man.

'We were promoting an idealized version of life. Gay people could be saved,' he says.

While Exodus International is no longer open, other 'pray away the gay' programs have popped up in its place.

'We are killing ourselves by not embracing who God created us to be,' Thomas says of the dangerous conversion therapy.
Travellers are racing to some remote hot springs dubbed the 'most beautiful' in Australia.

Bitter Springs, which are located approximately two kilometres from Mataranka in the Katherine region of Australia's Northern Territory, are set among palms and tropical woodlands in Elsey National Park.

The area features a series of naturally-fed thermal pools that are the perfect place to relax and unwind, while exploring the surrounding beauty of the national park.

Travellers are racing to some remote hot springs dubbed the 'most beautiful' in Australia (Bitter Springs pictured)

Bitter Springs, located two kilometres from Mataranka in the Katherine region of Australia's Northern Territory, are set among palms and tropical woodlands in Elsey National Park

The area features a series of naturally-fed thermal pools (pictured) that are the perfect place to relax and unwind, while exploring the surrounding beauty of the national park

Unlike some other swimming holes in the Northern Territory, Bitter Springs is safe to swim in all year round and free to access.

The warm, clear water - which is dappled by light filtered from overhanging palms - is a balmy 30 plus degrees Celsius all year round.

Bitter Springs is also situated close to another natural swimming hole, the Mataranka Thermal Pools, also within the national park.

There is a short circuit 1.3 kilometre walk at Bitter Springs that circles through the palms and tropical woodlands in Elsey National Park.

The warm, clear water - which is dappled by light filtered from overhanging palms - is a balmy 30 plus degrees Celsius all year round

Those who have visited Bitter Springs describe the experience as 'breathtaking' and 'magical'.

Many compliment the fact that the natural pools have not been landscaped or had concrete edging added.

Stairs are the only concession, making it easy to get in and out of the pools.

'We visited Katherine and the Mataranka Springs before visiting Bitter Springs. Mataranka was lovely, but packed and felt very man-made, so we headed to Bitter Springs and had it nearly to ourselves,' one commenter wrote.

'Bitter Springs are much more natural, and drifting around you could marvel at the spiders' creativity, dragonflies buzzing over the water and the waterlilies. It was just beautiful.'

Those who have visited Bitter Springs describe the experience as 'breathtaking' and 'magical' (the springs pictured)

Bitter Springs are situated close to another natural swimming hole, the Mataranka Thermal Pools, also within the national park

Another added: 'This is such a magical place.

'The mineral water is so warm and clear. You start at one end and the current just takes you and you exit out by the foot bridge and off you go again. It's such a beautiful, serene place.'

A third wrote: 'What an amazing place. This is like something you see on TV. You don't need to travel out of Australia to enjoy something so magical and beautiful'.
A woman has revealed how her ex-husband left her close to death after beating her with an iron bar and setting her on fire.

David Morgan, 60, launched the horrific attack after Brenda Welch, 50, ended her abusive marriage.

Miraculously, Brenda Welch, from Lake Stevens, Washington, survived but suffered a fractured skull and 23 percent burns to her body.

Thankfully, Morgan was found guilty of attempted murder, assault and arson and jailed for 21 years.

Now, the mother-of-three is scarred for life and wants to raise awareness of domestic violence.

Brenda Welch, 50, from Lake Stevens, Washington, pictured now, miraculously survived a horrific attack by her ex-husband, who beat her with an iron bar and set her alight

Brenda pictured with her ex husband, David Morgan on their wedding day in Hawaii in 2006. They first met when she was a nanny to his children, but didn't become a couple until 10 years later

Brenda, a teacher, said: 'I regret staying in a bad marriage with David and urge other victims to get out of controlling relationships as soon as they can.

'I was lucky to have survived the attack. I just hope my story is a warning to others.'

Brenda first met Morgan in 1994 when she worked as a nanny to his son from his first marriage.

But it wasn't until a decade later that the pair began dating.

Brenda Welch in 2014 pictured in hospital in a coma after her ex husband beat her and set her on fire, leaving her with a fractured skull and 23 per cent burns

She says: 'At first he was a loving partner and stepdad to my two daughters. But over the years he became controlling.'

Brenda fell pregnant in October 2006 and the couple married two months later in December 2006, but back at home, things didn't improve.

'David refused to attend the girls' parents' evenings and would snap at them over the smallest things,' Brenda recalled.

And when their daughter, Kylie, now 13, was born Morgan wasn't the doting dad.

Brenda's left eye socket had also been crushed during the horrific attack, and her face had to be reconstructed while she was in a coma

Brenda says: 'While I cared for our newborn and worked part-time as a cleaner, he watched TV all day and didn't lift a finger.

'I was expected to cook, clean and take care of Kylie all by myself.

'Over the years he made me feel trapped and worthless.'

In June 2013, Brenda was at breaking point, and so she devised a plan.

In April 2016, David Morgan appeared in court, claiming that an intruder had attacked Brenda and that he'd save her. However, he was found guilty and jailed for 21 years for attempted murder, assault and arson

She said: 'My parents lent me some money to rent an apartment and one day while David was at work, I packed up my things.

'Afterwards, I picked Kylie up from school and didn't look back.'

The next night, Morgan bombarded Brenda with calls and texts saying she'd regret leaving him.

Soon after, she began divorce proceedings.

Eventually Brenda landed a job as a nanny and life looked brighter.

The following year, in January 2014, Brenda met a new man and they started a relationship.

'I told him all about my nightmare marriage to David and he was really supportive,' she explained. 'Eventually we moved in together.'

But Morgan wasn't happy about Brenda's new love.

A few months later, In November 2014, Brenda left home to collect her daughter Kylie from Morgan's.

She says: 'As I headed out the door, I got a text from David. It said, "Come alone".

'I thought it was odd because I always picked Kylie up on my own.'

When Brenda arrived David instructed her to enter the house through the garage. Then everything went black.

When Brenda looked in the mirror for the first time after the attack, she was unrecognizable with a buzz cut and staples running along her head

She says: 'The next thing I remember was waking up in the hospital surrounded by machines. My body throbbed in pain.

'I felt like I was on fire. I had a tube down my throat and couldn't speak.'

A consultant explained how she'd suffered 23 percent burns to her body and that her skull had been fractured.

Her left eye socket had also been crushed.

He explained how they'd reconstructed her face while she was in a coma.

The mother-of-three is scarred for life and wants to raise awareness of domestic violence, after her ex-husband's attack left her in a coma

Brenda says: 'I looked down and saw my skin was charred. I was completely overwhelmed.'

A week later, the tube was dislodged from Brenda's throat and her then partner informed her that Morgan was responsible and had been arrested.

Brenda says: 'Sickeningly, David had denied the charges. I couldn't believe he'd done such a terrible thing.'

Later that day Brenda looked in the mirror for the first time.

She continues: 'I had a buzz cut with staples running along my head. I was unrecognizable.'

After the attack, everything went blank and Brenda's next memory was waking up in the hospital surrounded by machines and tubes and feeling intense pain throughout her body

Brenda spent seven weeks in the hospital recovering after she was found in a pool of blood and on fire in her ex-husband's garage

After seven weeks, Brenda was discharged.

As the prosecution built their case against Morgan, Brenda endured two years of physical and neurological therapy. She had to learn to feed herself again too.

In April 2016, David Morgan appeared in court.

Brenda says: 'During the trial, I discovered that firefighters had found me in a pool of blood on fire inside David's garage. They said I reeked of gasoline.

'Disgustingly, David claimed it was an intruder who attacked me and he had saved me.

The mother-of-three, pictured while in a coma in hospital, has been left with short-term memory loss and deafness in her right ear as a result of the horrifying attack

'Thankfully the jury saw through his lies and he was found guilty.'

Morgan was jailed for 21 years for attempted murder, assault and arson.

Brenda says: 'Now I suffer with short-term memory loss and am deaf in my right ear.

'Please, if you're in an abusive relationship, get out before it's too late.'
Sir Richard Branson says he doesn't like being described as a billionaire and would prefer to be known as 'a creative who creates special things that people can enjoy'.

In his first UK interview since his Virgin Galactic spacecraft returned from a flight through the edge of the Earth's atmosphere last week, the British entrepreneur spoke with Lorraine Kelly live from his home on Necker Island this morning.

Sir Richard is the first person to enter space in their own vessel, a feat he accomplished nine days before Amazon founder Jeff Bezos plans to ride his own rocket ship - New Shepard - into space from Texas on July 20.

Appearing on the ITV programme, he defended the 1billion project, arguing that space transforms our lives back here on Earth, and admitted he resents being labelled a billionaire.

Sir Richard Branson says he doesn't like being described as a billionaire and would prefer to be known as 'a creative who creates special things that people can enjoy'

'I must admit I haven't liked the word billionaire,' he said. 'It's like, "Richard Branson, billionaire". I think what all of us [Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk] are trying to do is to spend our lives creating things that we can be proud of, that make a difference in the world and hopefully pay the bills at the end of the year.

'Space was tough, we had 17 years when it nearly broke the bank account at Virgin. Now when Covid reared its head actually Space came and helped keep Virgin Atlantic's employees employed and Virgin Voyages employees employed and so on.'

He added: 'I like to feel myself as a creative who creates special things that people can enjoy and I think there's going to be a lot of kids watching this programme who one day will become astronauts and one day will go to space.'

Sir Richard claimed it 'didn't matter' to him that he beat Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos to ride his own rocket ship into space, having brought his mission forward to do so.

Sir Richard claimed it 'didn't matter' to him that he beat Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos to ride his own rocket ship into space, having brought his mission forward to do so

'Elon was a real gent turning up and coming with his child to wish us well and watch the flight,' he told Lorraine.

'And Jeff I wish him all the best in a week's time. Again, Jeff's programme, Elon's programme, all our programmes will make a big positive difference.'

He went on: 'Space actually already transforms our lives back here on Earth, a lot of people just don't know that the phones they're using or the satellite link between us today is all to do with space - without space we wouldn't be connected. There are two and a half billion people in the world who are not connected.

'The same way we put Virgin Galactic up we put Virgin Orbit up which was a giant rocket from a 747 putting satellites into space and they will start connecting people.

'We've had scientists in our spaceships doing tests because Virgin Galactic goes to a place in the air that balloons can't reach and satellites can't get to. So scientists are really excited about the fact that they can do experiments and be in the spaceship when they're doing them which hasn't been able to happen before.

In his first UK interview since his Virgin Galactic spacecraft returned from a flight through the edge of the Earth's atmosphere last week, the British entrepreneur spoke with Lorraine Kelly live from his home on Necker Island this morning

'There are so many things that benefit from space and so many more things I think that can now benefit from Virgin Galactic and Virgin Orbit's push into space as well.'

Sir Richard said he will continue to work towards 'sorting out the issues of the world' - with his trip to space spurring him on to do so.

'In the last 25 years I've devoted most of my life to trying to help sort out the issues of the world, climate change or rainforest issues or ocean degradation and so on,' he said.

'The next 25 years, being an optimist, we'll put the whole of the Virgin effort into all these different issues around the world. Most people who have been to space come back feeling the same way.

'There's nothing else out there like Earth, we live on something with beautiful unique species that need to be protected and we've all got to get out to play our bit while we can and protect them.'

Describing the moment his rocket disconnected from the mothership, Sir Richard said: 'When they turn on the rocket you just go nought to 3,500 miles an hour in roughly eight seconds, and youve got the roar of the engine as you go straight up - youre just looking straight up - and then that wonderful silence as you hit space'

Speaking about the reception he received back home on Necker Island following his mission, Richard said: 'I came down to wonderful comments from the grandkids - the youngest, the 2 year-old said, "Pappa gone to the moon!"

'It's been an absolute delight and when we got back to the island, everyone had dressed up in spacesuits and we had a wonderful welcome from the islanders. Plus lots and lots of kids, which is particularly pleasant about the whole adventure.'

On taking a call from Buzz Aldrin, he admitted: 'That was incredible because as a teenager I looked up at the moon when Buzz Aldrin was literally on the moon and Neil Armstrong, and thats really what inspired me to do this program in the first place.

'Plus, a phone in programme on English telly when somebody asked me the question, "Would you ever want to go up in a spaceship?" But Buzz is 91 years-old and it was obviously a great honour that he rang straight after the flight.'

Asked how he coped with the zero gravity, he recalled: 'The moment you know the body is working and you're not going to let the side down, you can just sit back and have the most ridiculous day of your life!

The successful mission made Sir Richard the second oldest person to travel to space - after 77-year-old John Glenn in 1998

'You're first of all taken up in the mothership to 60,000 feet and then dropped away and then when they turn on the rocket you just go nought to 3,500 miles an hour in roughly eight seconds, and youve got the roar of the engine as you go straight up - youre just looking straight up - and then that wonderful silence as you hit space and when you unbuckle, I mean Peter Pan was my favourite character figure as a kid and Ive always wanted to fly Theres no better way of putting it.

'[I felt] like a bird who had just taken off for the first time you can then look out of these big windows back at Earth and Earth is an extraordinarily beautiful place, and we were all blessed to have those spectacular views.'

The successful mission made Sir Richard the second oldest person to travel to space - after 77-year-old John Glenn in 1998.

Prior to take off he told the Times newspaper that the view alone will be worth the 1billion he has spent on the project, and added: 'I think it's one of the reasons that people want to become astronauts. They want to look back at this beautiful Earth.'
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It may have been an early start for the Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, but the couple looked fresh as a daisy as they arrived at the Great Yorkshire Show this morning.

Camilla, 73, braved heels for the annual event, organised by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, while Charles, 72, who is patron of the event, donned a smart cream suit.

Last night the couple attended 'A Starry Night In The Nilgiri Hills', a lavish 280-guest event hosted by the Elephant Family at Lancaster House to raise funds for the conservation charity founded by Camilla's late brother Mark Shand.

This morning they travelled to the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate, where they met with staff, stewards and exhibitors and toured the stands and livestock areas at England's biggest agricultural show.

The Duchess looked smart in a chic navy fitted blazer and a blue and white polka dot dress, teamed with a set of pearls. She completed the outfit with tan court shoes and a matching clutch bag with wooden handles.

At one point the Prince of Wales was told it was good luck after he trod in a cow pat while inspecting a show of South Devon cattle. Judge Anne Tully, from Brixham, Devon said: 'I told him that was luck, that's what we always say.'

The Duchess of Cornwall meets young owls during a visit to the Great Yorkshire Show at the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate

Dog lover Camilla is a bit hit with a sweet pair of pups in the Terrier Area during her and Prince Charles' visit to the Great Yorkshire Show

The Prince of Wales strokes a horse's ear as he does the rounds at the Great Yorkshire Show today. Charles was given a warm welcome by a horse-trader during his walkabout at the show

The Duchess of Cornwall holds a hedgehog (left) and an adorable baby chicken (right) during a visit to the Great Yorkshire Show today

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall are pictured admiring a floral display at this years Great Yorkshire Show in Harrogate today

Charles sported a cream suit while the Duchess looked smart in a chic navy fitted blazer and a blue and white polka dot dress, teamed with a set of pearls. She completed the outfit with tan court shoes and a matching clutch bag with wooden handles

The Duchess of Cornwall speaks to a mother as her daughter rides a pony during a visit to the Great Yorkshire Show this afternoon

Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall touches the head of an gnome named Charles during her visit to The Great Yorkshire Show

The Duchess looked smart in a chic navy fitted blazer and a blue and white polka dot dress, teamed with a set of pearls

Charles looked cheerful as he chatted away to staff and exhibitors at the show, back to its live format after last year's went ahead virtually due to the pandemic

Stylish Charles, who debuted a pair of trendy sunglasses as he toured Goldman Sachs' European headquarters in London yesterday, donned yet another pair of shades today - this time with orange frames from Serengeti

The prince then came face to face with champion 1,550kg Hereford bull Moralee One Rebel Kicks, owned by Tom and Di Harrison from Stocksfield, Northumberland. Mr Harrison said afterwards: 'I could have talked to him for an hour. He is very knowledgeable and I would have liked to have bought him a pint.'

Stylish Charles, who debuted a pair of trendy sunglasses as he toured Goldman Sachs' European headquarters in London yesterday, donned yet another pair of shades today - this time with orange frames from Serengeti.

After last summer's happened virtually due to the Covid-19 pandemic, this year the show - a key event in the farming calendar - is back to its live format and taking place over four days rather than the traditional three.

One of its star attractions is the world's biggest combine harvester, unveiled earlier this week before the show kicked off on Tuesday.

Capacity has been limited to a maximum of 26,000 people per day to minimise any potential crowding and ensure social distancing can be maintained.

It's expected to welcome 104,000 people throughout its run - significantly less than its usual 135,000, with no tickets available on the gates.

The Duchess of Cornwall admires the canine talent in the Terrier Area, with a little white pup taking a particular shining to her

The Prince of Wales meets the 1,550kg champion Hereford Bull Moralee One Rebel Kicks, owned by Tom and Di Harrison from Stocksfield, Northumberland

The Prince of Wales greets a sweet little girl at the Great Yorkshire Show in Harrogate as her beaming mother looks on

The Prince of Wales makes a speech during a visit to the Great Yorkshire Show, of which he is patron, in Harrogate today

The Duchess of Cornwall looks a tad unsure as she meets a large tarantula spider during a visit to the Great Yorkshire Show

The Duchess of Cornwall inspects a white pony ridden by a little girl clad in tweed during a visit to the Great Yorkshire Show

The Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall meet a group of young well wishers during their visit to The Great Yorkshire Show

The Duchess of Cornwall grins as she meets Deb Howe, who has a chicken on her head, during a visit to the Great Yorkshire Show

'The name's Charles, Prince Charles!' The Prince of Wales looks suave in his trendy sunglasses and cane as she laughs and jokes with visitors at the show

Prince Charles, Prince of Wales is given a tour as he visits the 162nd Great Yorkshire Show, the country's largest agricultural event

Capacity at the event has been limited to a maximum of 26,000 people per day to minimise any potential crowding and ensure social distancing can be maintained (pictured: Charles chatting to an exhibitor)

A smiling Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall during a visit to the Great Yorkshire Show at the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate

The Prince of Wales looks distinguished in his cream suit with brown brogues, and carried a cane inscribed with the Great Yorkshire Show

Charles was given a warm welcome by a horse-trader during his walkabout at the show. Father-of-six Red Lee Smith spotted the prince and gave him a booming hello as he walked by.

The gypsy from Dublin is currently staying in Doncaster and told Charles he was visiting the show with his family. After asking: 'Can I get a photo with Mr Charles?' Mr Smith told the prince: 'You're looking well,' to which Charles replied: 'Not too bad yourself.'

As they parted Mr Smith wished him 'God bless'. Afterwards, Mr Smith said: 'He's all right. I've met him before. I've met Harry a few times too.'

The Prince of Wales wore three badges representing The Prince's Countryside Fund, the Royal Agricultural Societies and the British Horse Loggers

Who ewe looking at? Prince Charles admires the line-up of fine sheep being judged at the Great Yorkshire Show

The Duchess of Cornwall wears a face mask as she views the Bee Hives and Honey Exhibition during today's visit to the Great Yorkshire Show

Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall speaks to a schoolboy who is busy crafting during a visit to The Great Yorkshire Show today

The royal couple at the show today, which is expected to welcome 104,000 people throughout its run - significantly less than its usual 135,000, with no tickets available on the gates

Charles is patron of the event and he was due to meet farming experts, look at livestock and see some of the 2,000 stalls at what is England's biggest agricultural show

It may have been an early start for the Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, but the couple looked fresh as a daisy as they arrived at the Great Yorkshire Show this morning

The Prince of Wales sported a purple thistle on his lapel, along with a pocket square and several badges dedicated to agricultural causes

Camilla, 73, braved heels for the annual event, organised by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, while Charles, 72, donned a smart cream suit
Queen Maxima of the Netherlands looked radiant in orange as she stepped out to open a new bridge in Amsterdam.

The Dutch royal looked a vision of summer chic in a recycled tangerine tie waist midi dress paired with an oversized straw hat and leather gloves as she attended the opening today.

Maxima, 50, last wore the gown as joined her husband King Willem-Alexander on a visit Ooststellingswerf in the region of South East Friesland during a series of engagements in 2020.

Today the royal visited the world's first 3D-printed steel footbridge which has been installed over the Oudezijds Achterburgwal canal in Amsterdam's Red Light District area.

Queen Maxima of the Netherlands looked radiant in orange as she stepped out to open the world's first 3D-printed steel footbridge in Amsterdam today

The Dutch royal looked a vision of summer chic in a tangerine tie waist midi dress paired with an oversized straw hat as she attended the opening today

Maxima was seen waving to royal fans at the event today, and was visibly amused to see one of the robots used on the 3d bridge taking part in the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The mother-of-three donned a pair of stunning statement floral earrings, carried a chic brown leather handbag and wore stylish gold heels.

She opted for a nude lip and dark eye, while using peach tones and highlight on her cheeks to accentuate her natural beauty.

More than four years in the making, the S-shaped bridge will act as a 'living laboratory' in the Dutch capital as it handles pedestrian traffic.

Maxima was visibly amused to see one of the robots used on the 3d bridge taking part in the ribbon-cutting ceremony over the Oudezijds Achterburgwal canal in Amsterdam's Red Light District area

The mother-of-three paired her look with a pair of brown leather gloves and a chic brown leather handbag

Researchers at Imperial College London are involved with assessing the 'performance' of the bridge, which is packed with sensors, as it's being walked on.

Data collected from the sensors will enable experts to monitor how it changes over its lifespan, such as if the steel yields due to footfall, and measure how the public interacts with the bridge, such as how many people are using it.

'A 3D-printed metal structure large and strong enough to handle pedestrian traffic has never been constructed before,' said Imperial co-contributor Professor Leroy Gardner of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering.

'We have tested and simulated the structure and its components throughout the printing process and upon its completion, and it's fantastic to see it finally open to the public.'

More than four years in the making, the S-shaped bridge will act as a 'living laboratory' in the Dutch capital as it handles pedestrian traffic

The mother-of-three donned a pair of stunning statement floral earrings, old heels and opted for a nude lip and dark eye, while using peach tones and highlight on her cheeks to accentuate her natural beauty

Sensor data will also be put into a 'digital twin' of the bridge  a computerised version that imitates the real-life physical version.

Performance of the physical bridge will be tested against the twin, which will help answer questions about the adequacy of 3D-printed steel and inform future construction projects.

3D-printing uses software to create a three dimensional design before being printed by a robot. These robots have a nozzle at the end of their arms that emit the printing substance  in this case steel, which is welded on layer by layer.

Data collected from the sensors will enable experts to monitor how it changes over its lifespan. Maxima is seen examining the bridge at the grand opening today

Maxima was seen waving to royal fans at the event today held in Amsterdam's Red Light District

It's been a busy week for Maxima, who yesterday visited the Transport and Logistics sector at E & R Training in Nieuwegein.

Last week, the royal couple underwent a three-day visit in Germany that was delayed from last year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

They were greeted with a 21-gun salute after landing in wet weather at Berlin's airport at the beginning of Willem-Alexander's first state visit to Germany since he became king in 2013.
They are joining their parents King Felipe of Spain and Queen Letizia at royal engagements more and more, and now Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia have branched out on their own.

The princesses, aged 14 and 15 respectively, enjoyed their first joint outing without Spains monarch and his wife yesterday.

They planted trees in the protected forest area of Hayedo de Montejo in Madrid, along with around 35 other teenagers aged between 14 and 16.

The event was part of the A Tree For Europe initiative, made in honour of World Environment Day.

They are joining their parents King Felipe of Spain and Queen Letizia at royal engagements more and more, and now Princess Leonor (left) and Infanta Sofia (right) have branched out on their own

The princesses (pictured front), aged 14 and 15 respectively, enjoyed their first joint outing without Spains monarch and his wife yesterday

Opting for low-key looks, the siblings were both dressed casually in white T-shirts and jeans for their outdoor engagement, and donned face masks while surrounded by the other children.

They completed their ensembles with matching hiking boots, while also sporting the campaigns pin on their T-shirts.

They two royals were tasked with planting a tree in an already-made pit while their group mates poured soil in to the hole and watered the plant.

They planted trees in the protected forest area of Hayedo de Montejo in Madrid, along with around 35 other teenagers aged between 14 and 16. Pictured, Leonor

The event was part of the A Tree For Europe initiative, made in honour of World Environment Day. Pictured, the siblings together

It comes after Princesses Leonor and Sofia looked chic in vibrant patterned dresses as they joined their parents King Felipe and Letizia at a meeting with United World Colleges (UWC) at the Royal Palace in Madrid.

UWC is a global network of schools and educational programmes with the shared mission of 'making education a force to unite people, nations and cultures for peace and a sustainable future'.

It has 18 schools and colleges on four continents, the majority of which focus exclusively on the 16-19 year-old age group, including UWC Atlantic College which Leonor will be attending for a two-year course this summer.

Following the footsteps of Princess Elisabeth of Belgium, the future Queen is going to study at the boarding school, based at the 12th-century St Donat's Castle dubbed the 'Hippie Hogwarts' in Wales.
Sarah Ferguson has addressed rumours of her feud with her late sister-in-law Princess Diana, revealing that the pair never fell out but people speculated about rifts because they wanted to 'break up something strong'.

The Duchess of York, 61, who met Diana when they were teenagers before they both married the Queen's sons told People: 'We promised each other we would always be together  there was never any daylight between us,

'But everybody wanted that because we were so strong together. People want to break something so strong.'

She added they were 'best friends' and that she called the Princess of Wales 'Duch'.

Sarah Ferguson has addressed rumours of her feud with her late sister-in-law Princess Diana, revealing that the pair never fell out but people just wanted to 'break something strong'. The pair are pictured together in 1983

'She taught me so much of public life. She was so brave. We used to have the most incredible time together.'

Sarah, most commonly known as Fergie is mother to Princesses Beatrice, 32, and Eugenie, 31, made the comments when featuring as People's cover star this week - in which she posed on the front of the magazine in a statement black blazer and white shirt combo.

Speaking about her old friend as an aunt and mother, she went on: '[Diana] adored my girls. She adored [her] boys. This would be her haven. Her heaven.'

She added Diana would be 'very proud' of both her sons and their 'wonderful' wives, and would be 'completed obsessed with her five grandchildren, Prince George, seven, Princess Charlotte, six, Prince Louis, three, Archie Mountbatten-Windsor, two, and one-month-old Lilibet.

Sarah, most commonly known as Fergie, made the comments when featuring as People's cover star this week (pictured) - in which she posed on the front of the magazine in a statement black blazer and white shirt combo

In the new interview ahead of the release of her Mills & Boon novel next month, the Duchess poses in photos thought to be taken at her Royal Lodge home in Windsor.

Snaps who her leaning against a tree, dressed in a striking brown ensemble, featuring a plunging V-neckline and see-through sleeves.

The new grandmother to Eugenie's 5-month-old son, August, said that since turning 61 last October, she has 'gotten out of her own way' and really become Sarah.

'I've really become Sarah. The Duchess is there. Good old Fergie's there too. But Sarah is authentically present,' she explained.

The Princess of Wales and the Duchess of York on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during the Trooping the Colour ceremony, June 1991

The duchess confessed that her Fergie persona - the lively redhead who stole the spotlight in 1985 at age 26 when she started dating the Queen's second son, Prince Andrew - is now a stark contrast to the calm she tries to achieve.

'When you have a sense of humour and you're a redhead, everyone takes you for a big hurricane,' she said. 'But sometimes, you don't always want to be the storm.'

During her time in the limelight, the mother-of-two admitted she often had an 'extraordinary fear of getting it wrong', but now realises 'being Sarah is just enough'.

Finding herself came as she wrote her novel, Her Heart for a Compass, a coming-of-age story set to be released on 3rd August about one of Sarah's ancestors, Lady Margaret Montagu Douglas Scott.

Whilst the duchess has written many bestselling children's books and several works of non-fiction, her latest piece is her first historical fiction novel aimed at adults.

The Duchess of York pictured with her daughters Princess Beatrice, 32, and Princess Eugenie, 31, and her ex-husband Prince Andrew

It is described as an 'immersive historical saga' that 'sweeps the reader from the drawing rooms of Victoria's court and the grand country houses of Scotland and Ireland, to the slums of London and the mercantile bustle of 1870s New York'.

The duchess also spoke about her former husband, who she still lives with, explaining she stands firm to the co-parents they are together and labelling him a 'fabulous father'.

It comes following the fallout from ex-husband Andrew's friendship with American financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The prince, who stepped back from royal duties in 2019, has denied any wrongdoing as well as any knowledge of the late Epstein's crimes.
Woke warriors are behind a drive to rename hundreds of bird species because their names are deemed to have links to slavery and colonialism.

Jameson's Firefinch, Blyth's Reed Warbler and MacQueen's Bustard are among those set to have their namesakes replaced by less 'offensive' monickers.

The group calling for the changes - US-based Bird Names for Birders - set up a petition insisting 'harmful colonial' names of species be banished, arguing that eponymous common names are 'essentially verbal statues' and thereby must fall, reports the Daily Telegraph.

Two birds have already had their monickers changed - one being the McCown's Longspur, named after John McCown, a Confederate general in the civil war who shot a group of larks he saw on a Texas prairie while stationed there.

Jameson's Firefinch (pictured) is among the bird species whose name is under threat because it's deemed to have links to slavery and colonialism

Two birds have already have their monickers changed - one being the McCown's Longspur, named after John McCown, a Confederate general in the civil war who shot a group of larks he saw on a Texas prairie while stationed there. It's now called a long-tailed duck (pictured)

Among the kills were a pair of pale grey longspurs with a spot of chestnut on their wings and white patches on their tails - markers he'd never seen before in the species, which prompted him to send their remains to an ornithologist friend. The species was then named for McCown, a not unusual practice at the time when it came to recognizing explorers who 'discovered' animals they'd never seen before.

The other is Oldsquaw, deemed offensive to indigenous groups. The McCown's Longspur has been renamed the thick-billed longspur, while Oldsquaw will now be known as a long-tailed duck.

The petition has attracted thousands of signatures, and it's sparked discussion that the 116-year-old National Audubon Society - the American equivalent of the RSPB - be renamed due to its founder, 18th century ornithologist John James Audubon, being linked to slavery.

It comes after bug experts are getting rid of the name 'gypsy moth' because some Roma people consider it to be an ethnic slur.

The Entomological Society of America, which oversees the common names of bugs, is banishing the common name of that critter and the lesser-known gypsy ant. The species will now be referred to as Lymantria dispar until a more common name is decided upon, a process which will take months, according to the society's president Michelle S. Smith.

The group announced this month that for the first time it changed a common name of an insect because it was offensive. In the past they've only reassigned names that weren't scientifically accurate.

The MacQueen's Bustard (pictured) bird name was inspired by the British army officer General Thomas MacQueen. He collected animals across India and shot one of the birds, later donating it the Natural History Museum

The Entomological Society of America, which oversees the common names of bugs, is getting rid of the name 'gypsy moth' (pictured is one of the insects)

The Oriental rat flea, Asian needle ant and the West Indian cane weevil are also now being scrutinised by the ESA's Better Common Names Project, which is canvassing public opinion regarding potentially offensive terms.

Birdwatching has long been a notably white-leaning activity, with the American Ornithological Society taking steps to encourage more birder diversity in recent years.

It's not just America where the debate surrounding bird names is raging. In November, the RSPB invited the Flock Together, a London-based birdwatching collective for people of colour, to take over its Instagram account to draw attention to 'problematic bird names'.

Species highlighted included the Blyth's reed warbler, which was named after the 19th century British zoologist Edward Blyth, who worked for most of his life in India as a curator of zoology at the museum of the Asiatic Society of India in Calcutta.

Species highlighted included the Blyth's reed warbler (pictured), which was named after the 19th century British zoologist Edward Blyth, who worked for most of his life in India as a curator of zoology at the museum of the Asiatic Society of India in Calcutta

It also flagged the MacQueen's bustard, the name of which was inspired by the British army officer General Thomas MacQueen. He collected animals across India and shot one of the birds, later donating it the Natural History Museum.

While Flock Together is not campaigning for the names of the birds to be changed, it would like the full history of their eponyms to be explained more thoroughly.

One of its founders, 27-year-old Nadeem Perera, told the Telegraph he would prefer to see nature described not in terms of human history, but 'in terms of nature'.

'On a personal level I wouldnt like to see any human being's name given to an animal,' he said.

Bo Beolens, author of The Eponym Dictionary of Birds and a leading authority on the history of eponyms, said there are hundreds of bird names inspired by 'dubious characters'.

'I can think of one convicted paedophile, several murderers, a number of Nazis and very prominent American racists let alone those who wilfully massacred other people,' he said. 'There are a huge number of colonialists who were not nice people.'

One of these is 19th century explorer James Sligo Jameson, an heir to the vast Jameson Irish Whiskey fortune. Jameson has three birds named after him including the Jameson's firefinch.

Jameson was part of Henry Morton Stanley's African expedition up the Congo River in 1888, and reportedly traded six handkerchiefs for a 10-year-old native slave girl just so he could draw her being eaten by cannibals while tied to a tree.

However, Beolens doesn't believe birds should be renamed, arguing re-writing history is 'a very dangerous thing' and suggesting the history behind them is explained instead.
Healthy adults should take statins even if they don't have heart problems as the benefits are worth the mild side effects, a major study has concluded.

Researchers at Oxford University looked at data from 120,000 patients to establish if those who do not have existing heart disease still benefit from statins as a preventative measure.

They concluded that although the drugs do have mild side effects such as muscle pain, these were significantly outweighed by a dramatic reduction in deadly heart attacks and strokes.

Around eight million people in Britain take statins, which lower levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood and are thought to prevent 80,000 heart attacks and strokes every year.

Since 2014 all over-75s, most over-60s and many in middle age with conditions such as diabetes have been eligible for the prescription medication.

Healthy adults should take statins even if they don't have heart problems as the benefits are worth the mild side effects, a major study by Oxford University has concluded [stock image]

But around six million Britons who are eligible for statins do not take them because of the potential for milder effects such as muscle weakness and stiffness.

Critics also say healthy people should not be put on them 'just in case' as this amounts to 'over-medicalisation'.

WHY ARE STATINS CONTROVERSIAL? Up to six million adults in Britain currently take statins to lower their cholesterol levels and thereby reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. But many doctors and patients are worried about their long-term harms and they have been linked to diabetes, muscular pain and memory loss. Scores are uneasy with what they describe as the 'overmedicalisation' of the middle-aged, which sees statins doled out 'just in case' patients have heart problems in later life. Supporters on the other hand, including the health watchdog Nice, say the pills should be prescribed more widely to prevent thousands of early deaths. They are proven to help people who have suffered heart problems in the past. But experts say the thresholds may be too high, meaning benefits are outweighed by side effects for many people. Commonly reported side effects include headache, muscle pain and nausea, and statins can also increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, hepatitis, pancreatitis and vision problems or memory loss. Advertisement

While scientists agree statins are worth it for people with existing heart disease, there is uncertainty over whether healthy people should take them as a form 'primary prevention'.

But the new study, published in the British Medical Journal, concluded that statins are appropriate and beneficial for adults without heart problems.

Researchers reviewed data from 120,456 people, with an average age of 61, of whom 40 per cent were women.

They found that for every 10,000 patients who spent a year taking the drugs, statins prevented 19 heart attacks, nine strokes, and eight deaths from heart disease.

Statins were associated with a slightly increased risk of muscle pain, liver and kidney problems, and certain conditions such as cataracts.

These risks equated to 15 more instances of muscle pain, 12 more kidney events, and 14 more eye conditions per 10,000 patients treated for a year.

However the researchers concluded that overall taking statins was 'favourable'.

They said the findings 'should reassure patients and doctors that the potential harms of statins are small and should not deter their use for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease.'

They added: 'Adverse effects were mild compared with the potential benefits of treatment with statins in preventing major cardiovascular events, suggesting that the benefit-to-harm balance of statins for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease is generally favourable.'

Professor Sir Nilesh Samani, Medical Director at the British Heart Foundation, said: 'This careful analysis of all available data shows that statins reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes and death in people without pre-existing heart disease, and there is a low likelihood that they will experience side effects.

'The decision to take statins to reduce the risk of heart and circulatory disease requires a conversation between GP and patient, and the results of this study will help to inform this discussion.'
Heart problems in children who develop the rare inflammatory condition linked to COVID-19 resolve within a few months, a new study suggests.

Researchers looked at 45 youngsters diagnosed with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a condition in which different body parts become inflamed.

The majority had some level of cardiac dysfunction that included severe problems including a worsened ability of the heart to pump properly and leaky heart valves.

However, within four months, all pediatric patients saw their cardiac issues resolves and biomarkers fall to normal levels.

The team, from Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and NewYork-Presbyterian, says the findings suggest that moat children recover from the illness without suffering long-term heart damage.

A new study looked at 45 children in New York diagnosed with MIS-C, a condition in which different body parts become inflamed linked to COVID-19, most of whom had some type of heart issue. Pictured: A five-year-old child in a hospital bed at Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, New York, May 2020

Heart issues and inflammatory biomarkers began falling within one to four weeks of being discharged and, within four months, all heart problems and biomarkers had fallen to normal normal levels (above with shaded grey indicating normal levels)

'We've learned that COVID causes a spectrum of illness in children. Some are asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic and a small number of kids who develop MIS-C become critically ill, requiring admission to the ICU,' said first author Dr Kanwal Farooqi, an assistant professor of pediatrics at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons.

'It is a relief that this study shows that most of the severe heart and immunologic manifestations we saw in kids with MIS-C resolved rapidly.'

MIS-C was originally thought to be linked with Kawasaki disease, a condition that causes inflammation in the walls of the blood vessels and affects mostly children under five years old.

Cases were first reported in Britain, Italy and Spain in April 2020 and began cropping up in the U.S. in May.

A total of 4,196 cases have been confirmed across the country and at least 37 children have died, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The majority of children and adolescents develop MIS-C between two and four weeks after being infected with the coronavirus.

Not every child who has developed the condition has tested positive for coronavirus, but 98 percent have - enough for doctors to believe the conditions are linked.

For the study, published in Pediatrics, the team looked at 45 children at NewYork-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital.

Nearly 80 percent of the children in the study has some level of cardiac dysfunction, meaning something was wrong with their hearts.

About half had moderate to severe cardiac abnormalities with problems including decreased ability of the heart to pump properly, leaky heart valves and coronary artery dilation - which is when the artery that supplies oxygenated blood to the heart becomes enlarged.

Most children showed an increased in inflammatory biomarkers, including ones specifically related to heart injury.

'These kids were quite sick, but at our hospital, where we began using steroids and other treatments routinely for MIS-C, most of the patients responded rapidly and were discharged by about five days,' Farooqi says.

Most children saw their cardiac abnormalities and biomarkers return to normal within a few weeks of leaving the hospital.

Within four months of being discharged, all the children saw their heart issues resolve and biomarkers fell within normal ranges.

'It's reassuring that our cardiac and immunologic outcomes were similar to those reported in a recent retrospective study of children hospitalized in the United Kingdom with MIS-C,' Farooqi said.

Because there is no long-term data on children with MIS-C, the team recommends that children get a cardiac MRI at six months and be cleared by a pediatrician before participating in sports.
The U.S. Surgeon General is warning Americans that COVID-19 misinformation is an 'urgent threat' to public health as cases continue to rise across the country and vaccination rates continue to stagnate.

In his first advisory serving under the Biden administration, which released on Thursday, Dr Vivek Murthy said that false information about COVID-19 - and the vaccines to combat it - put 'lives at risk.'

It suggests that misinformation has impeded efforts to get the U.S. population vaccinated, led people to mistrust health officials and have caused unproven treatments to be promoted.

The advisory states that combatting disinformation is a 'moral and civic responsibility' for not just individual citizens but also institutions.

'Health misinformation is an urgent threat to public health. It can cause confusion, sow mistrust, and undermine public health efforts, including our ongoing work to end the COVID-19 pandemic,' Murthy said in a statement.

'As Surgeon General, my job is to help people stay safe and healthy, and without limiting the spread of health misinformation, American lives are at risk...tackling this challenge will require an all-of-society approach, but it is critical for the long-term health of our nation.'

During a press conference on Thursday about the advisory , Murthy revealed he lost 10 family members to COVID-19.

U.S. Surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy released his first advisory serving under the Biden administration on Thursday calling COVID-19 misinformation 'an urgent threat to public health.' Pictured: Murthy speaks during an event in Delaware, December 2020

The advisory suggested the pandemic has hindered vaccination efforts as rates of daily shots fall below one million per day (above)

The advisory also takes aim at divisions among Democrats and Republican and says partisan divides have contributed to the spread of misinformation.

Murthy does not call out any politicians by name, but does indicate that lawmakers have a big role in spreading accurate public health messages.

'Misinformation tends to flourish in environments of significant societal division, animosity, and distrust,' the advisory states.

'Distrust of the health care system due to experiences with racism and other inequities may make it easier for misinformation to spread in some communities.

'Growing polarization, including in the political sphere, may also contribute to the spread of misinformation.'

Murthy's advisory also discusses the role that social media platforms have played in contributing to 'unprecedented speed and scale' of misinformation spread.

He called on technology platforms to 'take responsibility for addressing the harms,' boost the monitoring of misinformation and detect repeat offenders.

With the seven-day average of COVID-19 cases rising 129 percent in the last two weeks, largely driven by the transmission of the Indian 'Delta' variant, the Biden administration has been pushing to get Americans vaccinated.

However, adult vaccination rates have stalled around 67 percent, which is especially troubling considering that infection rates are highest in counties with low vaccine uptake.

There are many factors that contribute to low vaccination rates including lack of public transportation, little internet access to schedule appointments and less supply in urban communities.

But misinformation also plays a role in vaccine hesitancy.

A May poll from the Kaiser Family Foundation found that two-thirds of unvaccinated adults believe or are unsure about vaccine myths including that the vaccines cause COVID-19, lead to infertility or alter DNA.

It comes as the seven-day rolling average of COVID-19 cases has risen 129% in the last two weeks (above) amid the spread of the Indian 'Delta' variant

Murthy says this is not only putting lives at risk but preventing the country from ending the pandemic sooner.

'COVID has really brought into sharp focus the full extent of damage that health misinformation is doing,' he told NPR in an interview ahead of the advisory's release.

'Every life that is lost to COVID-19 when we have vaccines available, is a preventable tragedy.'

The advisory also lists others way in which a Americans can identify health misinformation, avoid sharing it and spread accurate health messages..

It encourages health professionals to engage with patients by listening 'with empathy' and correct any misinformation that present respectfully.

For government agencies, Murthy advises to invest in tools to research and fact-check claims as well as partnering with health organizations to spread accurate information.

He also recommends that media organizations and journalist are trained in recognizing and debunking misinformation.
Two major U.S. health systems will not be administering a controversial new Alzheimer's drug to patients.

Adulhelm, received US. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval on June 7 despite mixed clinical trial results.

The Cleveland Clinic, one of the most well-respected systems in the country, and Mount Sinai, a New York City-based system, both said they will not prescribe patients the drug due to a potential investigation into the drug's FDA approval.

In the time since the drug's approval, three members of an advisory board have stepped down, Medicare is reviewing whether or not it will cover the drug's cost and the FDA has asked for an investigation into its own agency communications leading up to the drug's approval.

The Cleveland Clinic (pictured) and Mount Sinai will not administer the newly approved Alzheimer's drug, Aduhelm, after its controversial FDA approval

Aduhelm received FDA approval despite two failed clinical trials, and limited results that the drug worked

In a statement, the Cleveland Clinic said it 'had reviewed all available scientific evidence on this medication

'Based on the current data regarding its safety and efficacy, we have decided not to carry aducanumab at this time,' the statement read.

Doctors at the hospital will be able to prescribe Aduhelm to patients, but they will have to go elsewhere to receive the drug.

Mount Sinai said it decision to not administer the drug came after the news of the FDA investigation.

'Aduhelm will not be considered for infusion into patients on any of its campuses until and unless [an investigation by the inspector general of the Department of Health and Human Services,] affirms the integrity of the FDA-Biogen relationship and goes on to reaffirm [the basis for the FDA's approval],' Dr Sam Gandy, director of the Mount Sinai Center for Cognitive Health, wrote in an email to the New York Times.

Blue Cross Blue Shield, a health insurer that covers 62 million people across the country, also announced that they do not plan to cover the drug.

Biogen responded to the hospitals' decision by standing by its drug.

'Biogen continues to stand 100 percent behind Aduhelm and the clinical data that supported approval,' Biogen, which is based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, wrote in an email to the Times.

'If any patient is denied access to care, we encourage them to contact us for help as we remain committed to supporting access to Aduhelm for all appropriate patients.'

Some medical experts have doubts about the drug's effectiveness.

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Biogen launched two clinical trials for Aduhelm in 2016.

Both were stopped midway because researchers concluded that neither trial would end up reaching its goal.

Later, the company revealed updated data from the second study showed patients had 22 percent decrease in speed of their cognitive decline.

It also showed that Aduhelm could remove amyloid beta plaques on the brain.

Some believe the removal of these plaques can stop cognitive decline, which would make the drug the only available Alzheimer's treatment to do so.

Others criticize Biogen for pulling data from a failed trial, and do not interpret the company's data in the same way.

Dr David Knopman, a neurologist with the Mayo Clinic, published an analysis of Biogen's data in November, where he disagrees with the companies conclusions on the drug's effectiveness.

Knopman was on the FDA advisory committee that voted 10-0 against approving the drug, and he later resigned in protest of the drug's approval.

A survey of neurologists by Spherix Global Insights found that neurologists only believe the drug is adequate for use in one-in-seven Alzheimer's patients.

'Regardless of pent up patient demand, expansion of the Aduhelm prescriber base will likely be slower than typically seen with other launches in the neurology market  as less than half of neurologists believe they will become adopters within the first six months of availability,' Spherix wrote in a release.

The FDA is also beginning to show doubts in their own approval of the drug.

Earlier this month, the agency revised their label of the drug, now only recommending it to people in the early stages of the condition or with a mild case of Alzheimer's.

It was previously recommended to all Alzheimer's patients.

Dr Janet Woodcock, commissioner of the FDA, even asked for the Office of the Inspector General to investigate communications between her staff and Biogen employees in the lead up to the drug's approval.

The Cleveland Clinic cites this investigation as reason for not wanting to deploy the drug.

Aduhelm has also received criticism for its large price tag.

Biogen stand by its drug. The company will charge $56,000 for a year of treatment using Aduhelm

Biogen has set a $56,000 price tag for a year of treatment.

A nonprofit think tank focused on drug pricing pegged the drug's actual value at between $3,000 and $8,400 per year.

Two congressional committees have launched investigations into the price of the drug and the large price tag it could cost Medicare.

An analysis published by the Kaiser Family Foundation estimated that if just 500,000 Medicare recipients are prescribed Aduhelm, it would cost Medicare nearly $29 billion a year, far more than any other medication.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services launched their formal process to decide whether or not the agency will cover the drug earlier this week.

A final decision will likely not be made until Spring 2021.
A man who was unvaccinated against COVID-19 had to undergo a double lung transplant after contracting the virus.

Blake Bargatze, 24, from Sugar Hill, Georgia, was the only member of his family to not get the vaccine because he was worried about side effects

However, his family believes he caught COVID-19 while attending a concert in Florida - and his health rapidly deteriorated, reported WSB-TV.

Bargatze spent three months in intensive care at three different hospitals before he underwent the procedure.

Now facing months of rehabilitation, his family says that he wishes he had gotten the vaccine and wants to warn others to get it so they don't risk the same thing happening to them.

Blake Bargatze, 24, from Sugar Hill, Georgia, recently underwent a double lung transplant after he contracted COVID-19. Pictured: Bargatze in the hospital before the operation

Bargatze's (left and right, before the operation ) family said he did not get vaccinated because he feared side effects. It is believed he caught the virus in Florida at an indoor concert, and his health rapidly deteriorated

Bargatze's mother, Cheryl Nuclo, told WSB-TV that her son regularly used a vape, but that he doesn't have any pre-existing conditions.

Although every member of his family had gotten the vaccine, the 24-year-old said he wanted to wait.

'He wanted to wait a few years to see you know, if there's any side effects or anything from it,' said Paul Nuclo, his stepfather.

'As soon as he got in the hospital, though, he said he wished he had gotten the vaccine.'

Bargatze was attending an indoor live music show in Florida, where he believes he caught the virus.

'He had called me that Friday when he got the results and he's like: "Mom, you're going to be mad. I got COVID,"' Cheryl said.

Within days, Bargatze's health rapidly declined.

On April 10, he was admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) at St Mary's Medical Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, according to a GoFundMe page.

Bargatze was then transported via air ambulance to Piedmont Atlanta Hospital on April 24 and placed on an Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) machine.

The machine, typically used for those with heart and lung issues, pumps and oxygenates a patient's blood outside the body, which allows the heart and lungs to rest.

He received his new pair of lungs on June 28 and now faces six to eight months of recovery and rehabilitation. Pictured: Bargatze after the double lung transplant

His family says he now wishes had gotten the vaccine and wants his story to be a reminder of how serious COVID-19 can be. Pictured: Bargatze before the operation

During his hospital stay, his lungs suffered extensive damage and he was transferred to the University of Maryland Medical Center on June 12.

After more than two weeks, a pair of donor lungs was found for Bargatze and he underwent a double lung transplant on June 28.

He will need to remain in Baltimore for between six and eight for recovery and rehabilitation, according to a GoFundMe page.

Cheryl and her son say that want Bargatze's story to be a reminder of what damage the disease can do without a vaccine.

'Maybe if some people were kind of on the fence[about getting vaccinated] and swaying, he wants them to see what might be the extreme of what can happen,' Cheryl told WBS-TV.

'Not using a fear tactic, but it can happen. I just don't ever want anybody else to go through this.'

Bargatze's medical journey is similar to those seen across the country.

Health officials in states such as Arkansas and Mississippi are reporting that more than 90 percent of COVID-19 patients hospitalized are unvaccinated.
A rapid smell test is showing promise as a new screening tool for COVID-19 in a pilot study.

Researchers found that a sniff card with one of eight different smells had a sensitivity rate of 75 percent and a specificity rate of 95.2 percent compared to gold standard PCR nose swab tests.

This means the test, called SAFER Card, would show about one in four false negatives but very few false positives.

The team - from the University of California, San Diego and Southern Methodist University in Texas - says the test is faster and cheaper than other screenings tool and could be an easy way for schools and businesses to determine which people should get further testing.

A new pilot study tested a rapid smell test using a scratch and sniff label called SAFER Card. Participants sniffed a single scent, chose one of eight options and then took a nasal swab test for COVID-19

Among the 16 people who tested positive, 12 of them - or 75%- failed the smell test compared to seven of the 147 - or 4.8% - who tested negative (file image)

Healthcare workers started calling attention to the symptom of loss of taste and smell in March 2020.

That same month, the American Academy of Otolaryngology called for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to add anosmia - the inability to smell - to its list of potential signs of coronavirus.

However, it's not been clear why some coronavirus patients experience this symptom.

Additionally, a May 2020 study jointly conducted by Italy and the UK and published last month, found that 64 percent of coronavirus patients reported an 'altered sense of smell or taste.'

For the new pilot study, published in JAMA OtolaryngologyHead & Neck Surgery, the team enrolled 163 adults aged 18 older from Southern Methodist University's campus COVID-19 screening site.

Each participant was given a card that contained a scratch-and-sniff label with a single scent.

The volunteers chose from one of eight options - banana, blueberry, floral, grape, lemon, mint, unsure, or no scent - and submitted their answers electronically.

If a patient got a scent wrong, he or she was classified as having olfactory dysfunction (OD), meaning the reduced or distorted ability to smell.

All the patients then underwent PCR COVID-19 tests using nasopharyngeal swabs.

Among the 16 people who tested positive, 12 of them - or 75 percent - failed the smell test compared to seven of the 147 - or 4.8 percent - who tested negative.

What's more, the study found that having OD was a greater predictor than other symptom including cough, fatigue or fever.

'In this study, we demonstrate that a rapid psychophysical olfaction test is feasible as a screening tool for COVID-19,'the authors wrote.

'Current literature suggests that individuals may fail to recognize OD that is detectable on objective testing. Furthermore, screening questionnaires may miss more than 50 percent of COVID-19 cases owing to screening question variation, subjective interpretation of symptom severity, and intentional patient evasion.

'Meanwhile, antigen-based point-of-care screening remains time intensive, expensive, and unrealistic in certain environments.'
An official from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says COVID-19 vaccines for children under age 12 are expected to be approved in early or midwinter.

First reported by NBC News, it could mean that youngsters are vaccinated over Christmas break before heading back to school for the spring semester.

The unnamed official said that after the the shots are given emergency use authorization for kids, the agency hopes to quickly give the shots full approval.

Parents and doctors are split over whether or not to vaccinate children because, while they can contract the disease, they also make up less 0.1 percent of all COVID-19 deaths.

FDA official said approval of COVID-19 vaccines in children under age 12 is expected in early or midwinter. Pictured: Caleb Chung receives the first dose of Pfizer coronavirus vaccine or placebo as a trial participant for kids ages 12 to 15, December 2020

Currently, COVID-19 vaccines in the U.S. are only approved for emergency use in children aged 12 and older.

However, both Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna are conducting clinical trials in children as young as six months.

For Pfizer's clinical trial, late stages have begun testing the vaccine in children between ages five and 11.

Trials for kids as young as six months to four years old are still in early stages and will expand once the researchers can determine safety.

Around 4,500 participants will be enrolled at nearly 100 clinical trial sites in 26 states, Finland, Poland and Spain, according to a press release.

According to clinicaltrials.gov, Pfizer's study in younger children will work similarly to the way it did in older children and adults.

About half of the ages five-to-11 group will receive two doses 21 days apart and the other half will be given placebo shots.

The team will test the safety, tolerability and immune response generated by the vaccine, likely by measuring antibody levels in the young subjects.

Parents and doctors are split over whether or not to vaccinate children because they are less likely to get sick than adults and make up less 0.1% of all COVID-19 deaths

Meanwhile, Moderna is planning a similar study, enrolling 6,750 children ages six months through 11 years with shots given 28 days apart.

The FDA is requesting four to six months of safety follow-up data when the companies submit for approval in fall 2021 compared to the two months needed for adult trial data.

The official told NBC News that more data could speed up the process of granting full approval to the vaccines.

Children are often the last group to be tested during clinical trials because they are not merely little adults.

Their bodies and immune systems behave differently, meaning they might have different treatment needs.

What's more, children may need different doses or needle sizes depending on their height, weight and age - which is why most children are only vaccinated after safety has been well-documented in the adult population.

In fact, Pfizer announced that it selected lower doses for COVID-19 vaccine trials in children than are given to teenagers and adults.

Those aged 12 and older receive two 30 microgram (g) doses of the vaccine,

However, children between ages five and 11 will be given 10 g doses and kids from six months to four years old will receive three g doses.

In a recent poll, conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation, parents were asked if they would get their child immunized once a COVID-19 vaccine is authorized and available for their child's age group.

Only about three in 10 parents - 29 percent - of children under 18 said they would get their child vaccinated 'right away.'

The poll also found 15 percent only plan to vaccinate their children if the school requires it and 19 percent said their child will definitely not be getting vaccinated.

What's more, although children can contract COVID-19 and pass the disease on to others, they tend to not get very will

More than four million children have tested positive for the virus as of Thursday, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
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Aston Martin has unveiled the production version of its new 700,000 217mph plug-in hybrid petrol-electric Valhalla supercar.

And as befits a car that appears in a 007 movie  it is living proof of the James Bond edict that 'You Only Live Twice'.

For while Aston's new bosses say the new Valhalla has 'evolved' from the original concept of two years ago, in essence they have gone back to the drawing board to re-design and re-engineer the original prototype from top to bottom to ensure they could turn the original dream into a practical reality that also makes money.

Aston Martin's new 'back to the drawing board' supercar: This is the 700,000 Valhalla, the British marque's next jaw-dropping model. Bosses said it has been entirely redesigned from the ground up from the prototype model previewed in 2019 - and that means it will be better to drive, more accessible (if you're minted) and [slightly] better for the environment

The new car was unveiled at Silverstone race-circuit at lunchtime Thursday ahead of the weekend's Formula One British Grand Prix.

The new management team is led by CEO Tobias Moers, formerly of Mercedes-AMG, and chairman Lawrence Stroll, a Canadian businessman and F1 figure.

Significant changes include: dumping the original lighter V6 engine for a bigger but more emissions-compliant V8 from their partners at Mercedes-AMG; redesigning the car's aerodynamic styling to ensure it sticks to the ground; doubling the expected sales target from a limited edition of 500 to a more likely open-ended 1,000 units.

The good news for potential customers  at least those who can stretch to the 700,000 price tag  is that this means it is half the planned 1.5million price that was put on the original version, though first deliveries aren't due until the second half of 2023.

Bosses said they had evolved its design and spec to be more 'mature'.

Say hello to Bond's new ride: This is the original Valhalla prototype unveiled by Aston Martin in 2019. It will be used by Daniel Craig in the forthcoming Bond film, but it will be a big departure from the car under the same name sold to customers

 Slide me  Left: The 2019 Aston Martin Valhalla prototype - the car Daniel Craig drives in the forthcoming Bond film. Right: The production car sold to customers with a price tag of 700k

Daniel Craig will drive the prototype Valhalla released in 2019 in the upcoming Bond film No Time to Die, which is due for release in September. It will be Craig's final appearance as 007

Filming in the Scottish Highlands for the Bond 25 film, the Valhalla is one of four Aston Martins appearing in the movie - the other three are a classic DB5, a V8 as appeared in an earlier 007 movie 'The Living Daylights' and a new DBS

The reborn Valhalla is now

The production-ready version of the Valhalla is powered by a 750 horsepower 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine linked to twin electric motors  together developing a mighty 950 horsepower.

That enables the new Aston to sprint from 0-to-62mph in 2.5 seconds, up to a top speed 217mph.

The decision to use an eight-cylinder powerplant was made after engineers and bosses believed that developing a sufficiently powerful V6 that complied with strict emissions rules would have been too complicated and expensive, said insiders.

Aston Martin chief executive Tobia Moers said that 'preserving the essence of an exceptional concept car is vital' when the company was considering how to bring the supercar to production.

'With Valhalla not only have we stayed true to our commitment to build a world-beating supercar, but we have exceeded our original aims.

'The result is a pure driving machine - one which exists right at the cutting edge of performance and technology yet allows the driver to feel the emotion and thrill of complete connection and control.'

 Slide me  As you can see from this side-by-side comparison, the front-end of the prototype and production car are very different. The version sold to customers will incorporate Aston Martin's traditional grille design and larger headlight units, while the air intakes on the bonnet of the concept have also been omitted from the production version

The production-ready version of the Valhalla is powered by a 750 horsepower 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine linked to twin electric motors  together developing a mighty 950 horsepower. That enables the new Aston to sprint from 0-to-62mph in 2.5 seconds, up to a top speed 217mph

Running in electric-only mode, the plug-in hybrid Valhalla will be capable of a maximum 80mph with a a zero-emission range of 9.3 miles (15km).

Carbon emissions are expected to be under 200g/km, it says - still the third-highest VED tax band (1,345 for the first year, if you wanted to know).

With the redesign and new powerplant, it means the original 2019 concept version that stirred the loins of petrol heads two years ago will not be sold to the masses.

However, it will be available for the British Secret Service's most skilled secret agent.

That because the 2019 Valhalla will live on as one of four Aston Martins appearing on the big screen in the forthcoming James Bond movie 'No Time to Die', which is now due to debut in September having been delayed by Covid.

The other three will be: the classic DB5; a V8 as appeared in an earlier 007 movie 'The Living Daylights; and a new DBS.

Will it fit in my garage? Aston Martin Valhalla Will it fit in your garage? If you have 700,000 to spend on a supercar and can get your hands on one of the 1,000 units being produced, here are the specification details you really need Price: 700,000 Production: 1,000 units Length: 4719mm Width: 1990mm (not including wing mirrors) Height: 1195mm Weight: Under 1550kg Top speed: 217mph 0-62mph: 2.5 seconds Total power: 950 horsepower (HP) Petrol engine: Mid/rear twin turbo 4.0 litre V8 petrol engine (750 horse-power) Twin electric motors: 150kW/400V battery hybrid system using a pair of E-Motors; one mounted on the front axle and the other on the rear axle Transmission: 8-speed Dual Clutch Transmission equipped with e-reverse Top speed in electric only mode: 80mph Electric-only range: 9.3 miles (15km). CO2 emissions: 200g/km (predicted) Tyres: Bespoke Michelin tyres (20in front, 21in rear) developed specifically for Valhalla Brakes: High performance carbon ceramic matrix brakes (with brake-by-wire technology)

'Most advanced, responsive and highest performing V8 engine in an Aston Martin'

Aston Martin said the car had been on a 'transformational journey' noting: 'The Valhalla concept has evolved into a truly driver focused, production reality supercar.'

Engineers said that at the 'beating heart' of the production Valhalla is its all-new plug-in hybrid powertrain, which features three motors: the bespoke rear-mid-mounted 750 horsepower twin-turbo V8 sending power directly to the rear axle; one e-motor sending power exclusively to the front wheels; and a second electric motor supplementing the rear axle.

The company said the engine itself is 'the most advanced, responsive and highest performing V8 engine ever fitted to an Aston Martin' and added that it will be as loud as it is rapid, with the twin exhausts vertically funneling out the eight-cylinder soundtrack a mere matter of centimetres behind the driver's eardrums.

'Exhaling through a lightweight exhaust system with active flaps for an adjustable and authentic Aston Martin sound character it also features top-exit tailpipes to maximise visual and aural drama,' the British marque says.

The Valhalla promises to be as loud as it is fast with the twin exhausts vertically funneling out the eight-cylinder soundtrack a mere matter of centimetres behind the driver's eardrums

Smart aerodynamic styling - specifically the front surfaces and rear wing but also underneath the body  means that at a speed of 150mph and above the Valhalla generates 600kg of downforce to help keep it glued to the road. Aston Martin said the carbon fibre body 'blends function and beauty in a manner that befits a new generation of mid-engined supercar'

But what about the eco credentials?

Aston Martin said: 'When driven in electric vehicle mode, battery power is directed exclusively to the front axle.

'In other driving modes battery power is split between front and rear axles, the percentage sent to each axle constantly varies according to driving demands.'

It added: 'In certain situations, 100 per cent of battery power can be sent to the rear axle, supplementing the full force of the petrol-powered V8 for maximum performance.'

Completing the set-up is an all-new eight-speed dual clutch semi-automatic transmission with gear-change paddles and an electric powered 'e-reverse' that saves weight by removing the need for a conventional reverse gear.

The company said: 'Exclusively designed and built for Aston Martin, this new paddle-shift gearbox has been developed specifically for the hybrid era.'

The transmission also features an Electronic Limited-Slip Differential - or 'E-Diff' - on the rear axle for maximum traction and handling agility.

Bosses say the Valhalla reflects Aston Martin's presence in Formula One - and will be tuned by the F1 team - setting best-in-class standards for performance, dynamics and driving pleasure, to help drive the transition from traditional petrol internal combustion to hybrid, and on to fully electric powertrains.

How the production model differs to the prototype car driven by Bond: original lighter V6 engine replaced with a bigger but more emissions-compliant V8 from their partners at Mercedes-AMG; redesigning the car's aerodynamics styling to ensure it sticks to the ground; doubling the expected sales target from a limited edition of 500 to a more likely open-ended 1,000 units

The Valhalla has high-performance Carbon Ceramic Matrix brakes (complete with brake-by-wire technology) to guarantee exceptional stopping power, as well as bespoke Michelin tyres (20-inch front, 21-inch rear, for the boffins out there) developed specifically for Valhalla. The alloy wheels also get an F1-style quick-release locking nut

It might not be the 2019 concept but the Valhalla's design is just as aggressive

Weighing under 1,550kg, the new supercar is built around a new a lightweight but super-strong carbon fibre tub.

It has high performance Carbon Ceramic Matrix brakes (complete with brake-by-wire technology) to guarantee exceptional stopping power, as well as bespoke Michelin tyres (20-inch front, 21-inch rear, for the boffins out there) developed specifically for Valhalla.

Smart aerodynamic styling - specifically the front surfaces and rear wing but also underneath the body  means that at a speed of 150mph and above the Valhalla generates an impressive 600kg of downforce to help keep it glued to the road, including through high speed cornering.

Aston Martin said: 'Uncorrupted by the need for aggressive wings that jut into the airstream, Valhalla's predominantly carbon fibre body blends function and beauty in a manner that befits a new generation of mid-engined supercar.

'A distinctive roof scoop feeds air directly into the V8 engine's intakes, with additional side and rear intakes and vents integrated smoothly into the overall body design.'

Weighing under 1,550kg, the new supercar is built around a new a lightweight but super-strong carbon fibre tub

Bosses say it will lap the legendary Nurburgring race track circuit in under 6:30 minutes - and Aston will likely sell out of the first 1,000 made in around the same time

No images of the cabin - and there won't be until the end of the year

Interestingly, Aston Martin has withheld any interior shots of the car and its dashboard  nor will there be for around six months.

That is because there is no physical dashboard area to see on the car shown on Thursday.

It is understood that this key element is still being finessed and worked on by designers and engineers.

For although the Aston Martin order book for the car is open now, first deliveries will not be until the second half of 2023.

The pared back cockpit design will - according to the brand - have a clear and simple lay-out 'unashamedly focussed around the driver'.

There will be a central touchscreen display, which incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and does away with the need for a bounty of switches that make the cabin look less like a NASA control centre.

It will have adjustable pedals and steering column, meaning the seat itself is fixed directly to the chassis for the ultimately driving position and the controls are moved to suit the frame of the user.

Footwells are also due to be raised for a low 'hip-to-heel' seating position redolent of a Formula One race car.

Valhalla also incorporates the latest advanced driver assistance systems including Auto Emergency Braking, blind spot monitoring and a rear view parking camera.

Electrical power is also used to enhance low speed control, as well as provide reversing capability, and 'sensational' standing start acceleration. The electric motor and V8 petrol engine can also run different gears simultaneously, to boost pulling power.

Aston Martin's executive chairman and owner of the F1 race team, Lawrence Stroll, said: 'Valhalla is a truly transformational moment for this ultra-luxury brand. The launch of Valhalla demonstrates Aston Martin's commitment to building a range of exceptional mid-engined driver focused cars.'

Chief designer Marek Reichman added: 'When we created the Valhalla concept we were keen to emphasise the design legacy of the Aston Martin Valkyrie and that intent remains unchanged, but the execution has evolved considerably in order to reach production of this all-new car, Though the legacy of Valkyrie is clear, Valhalla is now a more mature, fully resolved piece of design.'

Bosses said it aims to lap the legendary Nurburgring race track circuit in under 6:30 minutes - and Aston will likely sell out of the first 1,000 made in around the same time.
The 'horseless carriage' might sound unfamiliar, but 125 years ago this exciting new invention changed the world.

As with many novel creations, coming up with a name proved problematic and this was one of the most pressing debates in the first edition of the world's oldest motoring magazine  Autocar  which first rolled off the press on November 2, 1895, and is now in its 126th year.

The horseless carriage is, of course, the motor car, and over the decades Autocar has charted the roller-coaster development of these machines, from pioneering Benz and Daimler models up to the advent of Tesla and the electric revolution.

Fitting, then, that as we now embark on arguably the biggest automotive changes ever  the advent of electric-only power and self-driving technology  the magazine is creating a unique archive of motoring history.

First edition: Autocar No1 Vol 1 published in November 1895. The magazine is now in its 126th year

Over the past six months, more than a million pages spanning 125 years of automotive history have been 'digitised' for posterity.

Heavily bound tomes of past editions weighing more than four tons in total were transported from Autocar's headquarters in Twickenham, South-West London, up to Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, where archivist Pete Boswell and his team at Archive Digital has been re-creating each issue page by page.

The Autocar motor archive (themotoring archive.com) goes live next month with podcasts narrating the first 52 pioneering editions in their entirety and the most visually attractive front covers available as prints and posters.

Making a start

Another question in that first edition was what would actually power the new vehicles in those latter days of Queen Victoria's reign.

Surprisingly, electric power was an early strong contender, but would the batteries have enough storage capacity? Unlikely.

Steam ran out of puff. But petroleum spirit  despite its volatile nature  had the key advantage of being in plentiful supply at pharmacies and relatively easy to transport in cans.

Petrol was the way forward. As Autocar put it: 'The last is the latest. The latest is the best.'

The magazine also lays claim to inventing the 'road test'  a consumer view of how a car performs  that is standard reading whether you are a family buying a car or a petrolhead wanting the real inside track on the latest supercar.

Tips: An article from December 1928 instructs new drivers in the 'art of reversing' with advice that remains valid to this day

Often, writers would actually be driven by a chauffeur. The magazine began in late 1895 when entrepreneur Harry Lawson drove into the centre of Coventry at the tiller of the strange machine we now know as a 'motor car'. At the time, it was probably one of only six in the country.

Lawson, who had made a huge fortune manufacturing bicycles, called to see the editor of The Cyclist, a solemn-looking former schoolteacher named Henry Sturmey, who founded that magazine in 1879 at the age of 22.

Excited by the potential of the motor car, young publisher William Iliffe decided they should bring out a magazine to celebrate its arrival the next day and settled on the title: The Autocar.

The December 1948 edition features the new Morris Oxford

Good track record

Ironically, given some of the mutual antagonism between cyclists and motorists today, that first edition points out how cyclists on the highway had 'accustomed the public mind to the sight of wheeled vehicles without horses' on roads.

It added: 'The cyclist and the cycle maker have paved the way for the autocar.' The first edition carries only four photographs of pioneering cars  they include a De Dion-Bouton tricycle; an early Peugeot; a Panhard and Levassor; and an American contraption.

But historian David Burgess-Wise noted how The Autocar's arrival was perfectly timed to capture the mood and added to the campaign to repeal the infamous 'Red Flag' Act which required a man with a crimson banner to walk in front of a vehicle to ensure it remained at walking speed  or roughly 3 mph.

He said: 'For its first year, Autocar really was a magazine for a persecuted minority, for it was not until November 14, 1896, that the British Government changed the law and allowed motorists 'the freedom of the road'.

'Although there was still a nationwide speed limit of 12 mph, the red flag man was gone for ever.'

To celebrate this 'Emancipation Day', Harry Lawson's Motor Car Club organised a tour from London to Brighton  still celebrated by the annual London to Brighton Run for pre-1905 veteran cars organised by the Royal Automobile Club.

From pioneers to bestsellers... the icons that changed our lives Benz (1888): The first ever production car, the Benz Patent-Motorwagen 3, was introduced in 1888 when inventor Karl Benzs pioneering wife drove it on a publicity trip 65 miles from Mannheim to her hometown of Pforzheim in the Black Forest. This was the start of the car firm that became Mercedes-Benz. Ford Model T (from 1908): The car that brought motoring to the masses, Henry Fords mastery of the production line meant one model and just one exterior paint, prompting the quip that customers could have any colour as long as its black. More than 15 million were sold up to 1927 (at one point half the cars on U.S. roads were Model Ts), setting a record until eclipsed in 1972 by the VW Beetle. VW Beetle (from 1938): Launched in 1938 by Ferdinand Porsche to be the Nazis Peoples Car, the rear-engined Type 1 of what developed into the VW Beetle was saved by the British from the ruins of post-war Germany and became a symbol of the hippy era. When production ended in 2003, 21 million had been sold and it was the worlds best-selling car. MINI (from 1959): Design genius Sir Alec Issigonis revolutionised the motor car in 1959 by creating a 10 ft square box on wheels to satisfy demand for an economic car after the 1956 Suez Crisis, which led to fuel and oil shortages. It was loved by celebrities, royalty and ordinary folk in the Swinging Sixties.

Autocar has always been there to record the historical motoring milestones. These include the formation of the Automobile Association  the AA  in 1905 to combat police speed traps; the introduction of 70 mph speed limit on motorways; the then controversial introduction of the roadside breathalyser and tougher drink-drive laws in 1967 by Labour's Transport Minister Barbara Castle (who received death threats); the first speed cameras; and congestion charging.

A classic Mini graces the cover of this edition from the early 1970s

And it continues right up to today's experiments in autonomous driving and the Government's decision to ban new petrol and diesel cars from 2030.

In 1992, the magazine even sacked motoring writer James May  who went on to host Top Gear alongside Jeremy Clarkson for secreting a mischievously rude coded message among its hallowed pages.

It has only twice failed to reach the shelves  during the General Strike of May 1926 when three issues were lost, and in 1973 during a spate of fuel shortages and strikes by miners and print workers.

Autocar's editorial director Jim Holder said: 'It's been an incredible journey so far.

'And with so much change happening right now, we're heading towards the biggest and most exciting time since the birth of an invention that has truly shaped the modern world. It has been an honour to chronicle it.'

So as the motor car enters a new electric, green, and potentially autonomous phase, here's to the next 125 years of Autocar.

I wonder how the world of motoring will look then? If it exists at all.
The FTSE 100 closed down 79.17 points at 7012.02 and the pound was at $1.38 against the dollar.

Fresh figures published by the Office for National Statistics this morning revealed the number of job vacancies in Britain surpassed pre-pandemic levels in the three months to June.

The ONS said there were 862,000 jobs on offer in Britain between April and June, which is 77,500 more than in the same quarter in 2020.

The ONS said the rise was driven by 'hospitality, wholesaling and retailing'. The number of people on payrolls also grew, up by 356,000 in June, the figures show.

But, the ONS said the number of payroll workers remained 206,000 below pre-pandemic levels, at 28.9million.

In the three months to May, annual total pay growth hit 7.3 per cent and annual regular pay grew 6.6 per cent.
Online fashion giant Asos saw UK sales rise by 60 per cent in the four months to the end of June, but has warned that further volatility looms as the pandemic rolls on.

With many bricks-and-mortar stores only just starting to reopening over the period, Asos was able to capitalise on the shutdown and added 1.2million customers to its site. Customers that have been inspired by the recent lockdown easing, with more dresses and 'occasion wear' lines sold on Asos' website.

But, poor weather and 'volatility', in part driven by ongoing uncertainty over Covid 19, meant sales had become more 'muted' in the past few weeks, Asos said.

With the company voicing caution for the coming year, shares in Aim-listed Asos have fallen sharply and are currently down 14.32 per cent or 674.00p to 4,033.00p this morning. A year ago the group's share price was 3,489.00p.

Caution: Shares in Asos fell over 14% this morning after the group gave an update

The retailer also highlighted that profits were being squeezed in part due to increased freight costs and global supply chain disruption.

Boss Nick Beighton, said: 'ASOS has delivered another strong performance against a backdrop of continued social restrictions and global supply chain pressures.'

The group expects its full-year profit to come broadly in line with expectations.

Asos said sales had been strong across its operations in the European Union, particularly in Germany.

Growth in the EU has also increased, particularly in Germany.

Sales growth: Asos saw UK sales rise by 60% in the last few months

Earlier this week, Asos announced it had struck a deal with US department brand Nordstrom to sell Topshop lines in their US stores. The company hopes to expand its global reach further in future.

The company said in an update to the stock market: 'Trading in the last three weeks of the period was more muted, as continued Covid uncertainty and inclement weather, particularly in the UK, impacted market demand.

'We anticipate a measure of volatility to continue in the near term, given the rapidly evolving Covid situation worldwide.'

It added that there was a 'strong performance in the UK, with increased promotional activity to capture the available demand for our compelling product offer, despite the reopening of physical stores early in the period.

'The final weeks of June saw a softening, due to the impact on consumer demand of continuing Covid uncertainty and unseasonal weather.'

Sales in the four months to 30 June jumped 31 per cent to 1.29billion, including a 60 per cent rise in UK sales to 526.4million.

The US saw growth of 31 per cent to 144.8million, although this was bolstered by currency fluctuations in Asoss favour.

Sophie Lund-Yates, senior equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: 'Bad weather and ongoing uncertainty mean Asos' UK sales trends weakened towards the end of June.

'This is to be expected  if theres any doubt about when so-called freedom-day is going to happen, its young, core customers will hold off on buying party dresses. Heavy rain means less socialising too. With restrictions set to ease in the coming days, we could see increased demand as people gear up to hit bars and clubs once more.

There is a lot resting on sales regaining some of the lost ground, with the market clearly disappointed in the uncertainty pointed out in Asos trading statement. Next quarter will be crucial because it will give a better indication of the sales pace Asos can achieve in more normal times.'

Richard Hunter, head of markets at Interactive Investor, said: 'The challenges which are likely to come have taken some of the froth from the share price of late, as evidenced by a 13% dip over the last three months.

'However, over the last year the shares remain ahead by 40%, in line with the hike seen in the wider FTSE AIM 100, and the market consensus has not diminished on longer term prospects, still coming in at a strong buy.'
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has called Revolult a 'British fintech success story' after its valuation reached record levels following a major cash injection.

Banking and payments app Revolut, which also allows users to buy and trade cryptocurrency, has been valued at a record-breaking 24billion after securing 578million worth of funding.

Revolut is now Britain's most valuable fintech firm thanks to bumper funding from Japanese group Softbank's Vision Fund and US investment firm Tiger Global Management.

High praise: Chancellor Rishi Sunak has called Revolut a 'British fintech success story'

Revolut's huge valuation comes despite the company recently revealing it nearly doubled its losses last year, to 208million. A year ago the group's valuation was around 4billion.

London-based Revolut has insisted it is on the path to profitability, having swung out of the red in November and December last year and being 'strongly profitable' in the first quarter of this year.

The group's new sky-high valuation is the latest in the fintech world, with investors piling into the sector, driven also by the rise in US-listed special purpose acquisition companies, also known as SPACS.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak welcomed the fundraising news, saying: 'We want to see even more great British Fintech success stories like Revolut.'

Revolut, founded in 2015 by former Lehman Brothers trader Nikolay Storonsky and software developer Vladyslav Yatsenko, said it will use the funds raised to invest in product development and marketing, particularly as it expands its footprint into the US, India and other international markets.

Ambitious: Revolut has insisted it is on the path to profitability, having swung out of the red in November and December last year

It is also hiring in a bid to boost its 2,000-strong workforce by more than 50 per cent worldwide, including in London.

Mr Storonsky, co-founder and chief executive of Revolut, said: 'SoftBank and Tiger Global's investments are an endorsement of our mission to create a global financial superapp that enables customers to manage all their financial needs through a single platform.

'This funding round makes Revolut the UK's most valuable fintech, demonstrating investors' confidence that we can deliver products that raise the bar for customers' expectations across the whole financial services industry.'

Revolut, which has more than 16million customers, added that the group still has a future stock market listing in its sights, in spite of the fresh round of funding.

Chief financial officer Mikko Salovaara said: 'It doesn't really affect the timetable for any potential listing.

'I think eventually we'll be a public company, but have no immediate plans to list.'

Loss: Pre-tax losses at Revolut widened to 207.8million, from 107.7million in 2019, as administrative costs rose to 266million

In June, Revolut said it saw its losses nearly double in 2020 despite cashing in on the cryptocurrency boom, as it continued to expand rapidly around the world and saw staff costs jump.

The fintech company said it made a 39million gain on its cryptocurrency investments last year.

Revenues rose 34 per cent to 266million as Revolut, which allows users to trade anything from bitcoin to gold, saw growing demand for its trading services.

The banking app said it turned a profit in the last two months of 2020, which coincided with the beginning of a huge rally in the price of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.

Pre-tax losses widened to 207.8million, from 107.7million in 2019, as administrative costs rose to 266million, from 125million in 2019.

That was driven by 170million of staff costs, which is almost three times the wage costs it incurred last year.

The latest valuation developments will provoke questions over the ability of loss-making technology companies to attract price tags in excess of all but the biggest publicly listed companies.

Revolut launched with a pre-paid card offering money transfers and free currency exchange.

It then expanded to offer bank accounts, investments and tools for budgeting and saving money.

And unlike UK banks, it allows its customers to buy and sell a raft of cryptocurrencies, including bitcoin, litecoin, ethereum and doge, among others.

Investors can load money onto Revolut from another bank account and exchange up to 1,000 into bitcoin for free.
Investors lost their appetite for Just Eat Takeaways shares as concerns mounted that the pandemic boom in business is wearing off.

The delivery group tumbled to the bottom of the FTSE 100 leaderboard despite reporting that first-half orders across the group were up 61pc.

In the UK, orders rose by a staggering 733 per cent in the first six months of the year compared with 2020, as Britons cooped up by a third lockdown and a soggy spring kept coming back for more takeaways.

Off the boil: Just Eat tumbled to the bottom of the FTSE 100 leaderboard despite reporting that first-half orders across the group were up 61%

It also managed to pinch customers away from Uber Eats and Deliveroo (down 1.5 per cent, or 4.4p, to 299.2p).

The solid start to the year has prompted the group to upgrade the companys full-year forecasts  and it now believes a key measure of gross transaction value will be between 24billion and 26billion this year.

Its performance has been boosted by the takeover of US rival Grubhub, which it bought for 5.8billion only a few months after Just Eat and Takeaway themselves merged last year.

In a trading update, Just Eat added that it would make far more money throughout the rest of the year, saying that losses had peaked in the first half, driven by caps on fees in North America and new investments.

Stock Watch - Costain Costain slipped up as it told shareholders the value of orders has slipped. The HS2 and Thames Tideway Tunnel contractor said its order book stood at 4billion by the end of the first half in June  down from 4.2billion at the same time last year. The company has had more cash available on average at the end of each month  around 103million  compared with 2020. Also in the first six months of 2021, Costain finally drew a line under a problematic project with the Welsh government over work on a major road through the Brecon Beacons. Shares fell 4.6 per cent, or 2.7p, to 56.1p.

Just Eat Takeaway was one of the so-called pandemic winners that saw business flourish during lockdown.

But with countries  particularly the UK  reopening and customers rushing back to bars and restaurants, the question now seems to be if, or how quickly, this will fizzle out.

Chris Beauchamp, chief market analyst at IG, said: Just Eats performance continues to disappoint, judging by the reaction of the share price this morning. A 733 per cent gain in UK order growth just doesnt cut it any more, it appears, and in any case matching this for the next half is likely to prove impossible, given the expected return to pubs and restaurants and the concomitant decline in takeaway orders.

Shares sank 9.1 per cent, or 585p, to 5837p last night, down from peaks last year of around 8380p.

At the other end of the scale, a boost to forecasts lifted credit check specialist Experian.

It was among the Footsies top risers after it reported first-quarter revenues jumped by almost a third.

In the US, its biggest market, its credit comparison marketplace did well as more people applied for credit cards and loans.

Shares in the group  which expects turnover to grow up to 15 per cent this year  rose 2.5 per cent, or 73p, to 3050p.

The FTSE 100 as a whole, however, had a miserable day, falling 1.1 per cent, or 79.17 points, to 7012.02.

It was partly dragged down by BP (down 2.9 per cent, or 8.7p, to 295.05p) and Shell (down 2.3 per cent, or 32p, to 1377p), which tracked a fall in oil prices.

The value of a barrel of Brent crude fell more than 1 per cent yesterday to $74 as traders braced for more oil to enter the market after Saudi Arabia and the UAE reached a production agreement.

Bitcoin also sagged, falling 3 per cent to around $31,781.

Susannah Streeter, senior equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, said this could partly be down to concerns about central banks mulling launching their own digital currencies.

The FTSE 250 was also in the red, falling 1.1 per cent, or 248.79 points, to 22501.25.

White-collar recruiter Hays was among the biggest fallers (down 8.6 per cent, or 14.4p, to 153.3p) despite raising guidance  which is becoming something of a theme on the stock market.

It said it expects annual profits to hit 95million, ahead of expectations, but flagged that there are clear skills shortages in some industries.

Chief executive Alistair Cox said business rebounded in all of its largest markets including the UK, Germany and Australia.
Vectura's board last week backed a 150p a share offer from Philip Morris International

Ministers are under pressure to block the takeover of respiratory drugs company Vectura by the maker of Marlboro.

The board of the Chippenham-based inhaler specialist, which is developing a Covid treatment, last week backed a 150p a share offer from Philip Morris International (PMI).

But in a growing backlash against the proposed 1billion deal, the chief executives of charities Cancer Research UK, Asthma UK and British Lung Foundation Partnership, and Action on Smoking and Health have written to Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng and Health Secretary Sajid Javid calling on the Government to stop the deal going through.

The letter says: There is a real prospect that PMI will use this acquisition to legitimise tobacco industry participation in health debates within the UK.

This must not be allowed to happen, they add.

The charity bosses also warn of huge unease that a tobacco company could profit from treatments for illnesses such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma.
The City watchdog has admitted it must raise its game to become fit for purpose after a string of scandals.

Bosses at the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) said 120million will be invested in improving its data capabilities over the next three years to crack down on fraud and misconduct.

These include strengthening rules on financial promotions to protect investors, improve standards on pension advice and taking a more proactive approach to spot scams and high-risk investments.

Bosses at the Financial Conduct Authority said 120m will be invested in improving its data capabilities over the next three years to crack down on fraud and misconduct

The plans come less than a month after MPs on the Treasury Select Committee said the FCA needed a culture change following the collapse of mini-bond firm London Capital & Finance (LCF).

LCF went bust in 2019 after raising 237million from 11,000 small investors and a report by Dame Elizabeth Gloster last December found the FCA failed to properly regulate and supervise the business.

In an apparent nod to the report, the FCA said it would be proactive at the boundaries of the perimeter of its regulated markets  having previously pointed out the LCF model did not fall under its remit.

The regulator also said it would develop plans to differentiate the UKs financial institutions from EU ones following the recent revelation from Chancellor Rishi Sunak that attempts to sign a mutual recognition deal with Brussels had failed.

Chief executive Nikhil Rathi said: We know that there are areas where we need to raise our game considerably.

The FCA must continue to become a forward-looking, proactive regulator.

One that is tough, assertive, confident, decisive, agile. One that is not only purposeful but that is fit for purpose.
Revolut has officially become the UK's most valuable fintech firm with a whopping 24billion price tag.

The banking app earned the accolade after successfully closing a 577million funding round with Japanese investment giant Softbank and Tiger Global Management.

The valuation means Revolut, founded in 2015, is worth more than NatWest  one of the UK's largest and oldest retail banks and which has a market cap of 23.6billion.

Banking App Revolut, founded in 2015, is now worth more than NatWest  one of the UK's largest and oldest retail banks and which has a market cap of 23.6bn

Revolut is evidence that challenger banks have matured and can take on their more established rivals.

The next stage in Revolut's evolution will be to go public and hopes are the bank will choose to list in London as the UK tries to establish itself as the world's premier fintech hub.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has been monitoring the company's progress closely and yesterday he said Revolut's fundraising was 'great news', adding that 'we want to see even more great British fintech success stories'.

Revolut previously said a float would not be considered until a 28billion valuation has been achieved and yesterday's news will have sent the Square Mile's investment bankers into a frenzy.

Neil Wilson, analyst at Markets.com, said: 'It has been a strong year for the tech pipeline with Wise, Deliveroo and Darktrace all choosing London. Revolut would top all those though and Rishi Sunak won't want to let this slip by. The question is does it want the scrutiny just yet.'

While Revolut is not yet a household name, its rise is no surprise to the tech community.

Russ Shaw, founder of Tech London Advocates, said: 'This has been a steady build over the years. Everybody says to me, 'Where is the next Google?' Well hey, look, we're building them.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak said Revolut's fundraising was 'great news'

'If we keep getting this right we can compete with China and the US.' Revolut was founded by British-Russian entrepreneur Nikolay Storonsky and his Ukrainian sidekick Vlad Yatsenko, but the firm is very much a London success story.

Storonsky studied in Moscow and immediately moved to London where he became a trader at Lehman Brothers and then Credit Suisse in 2008.

It is at Credit Suisse that he met Yatsenko. Seven years later Revolut was born in Level 39, a financial technology incubator in Canary Wharf, London.

The firm offered customers foreign exchange and money transfer services and has since branched into debit cards as well as offering stock trading and crypto-currency accounts.

Storonsky himself is forthright and refuses to pander to the woke brigade, many of which are his customers.

Previous staff members have complained about a toxic work culture but others say working for Revolut is like being an elite athlete and those who cannot handle it are quickly found out.

Revolut's rise is in stark contrast to NatWest, one of the worst-hit banks when the financial crisis struck 13 years ago. NatWest required a 45.8billion bailout and is still 55 per cent owned by the taxpayer.

Unlike Storonsky, its chief executive Alison Rose can ill afford to take risks and is under intense pressure to succeed as the UK's first female chief executive of a major bank.

Since she started in November 2019, Rose has cut jobs and closed branches but her critics say that she lacks the imagination and charisma of some of her rivals.

One bank analyst said: 'She's got a tough job. And there still questions over the existing bank model with its huge cost base. I think the industry is ripe for a shake-up by a company like Revolut.'

But Revolut has its critics, who say the company has yet to turn a profit. Results in 2020 showed it recorded a 168million loss on revenues of 222million. In contrast Natwest posted a 351million loss on revenues of 10.8billion.

In January this year Revolut applied for a UK banking licence, which it needs to lend money to customers, move into credit card services and take customer deposits.

One source close to the company said: 'Revolut has done well but it has not yet established itself as a lender. The next step could be the hardest.'
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A scathing letter which demanded Freedom Day be delayed and was backed by more than 1,200 'experts' allowed people with no scientific credentials to sign it, MailOnline can reveal.

The document accused the UK Government of conducting a 'dangerous and unethical experiment' by pressing on with the July 19 unlocking despite soaring infection rates.

It was originally signed by 122 leading scientists and doctors last week and published in the prestigious journal The Lancet.

But it was later republished on an online campaign website, where it gained more than 1,000 more signatures and made national headlines on Tuesday.

The Lancet's editor-in-chief Dr Richard Horton claimed that the letter highlighted that there was 'no scientific consensus' over Boris Johnson's decision to ditch most remaining lockdown curbs next week.

However, among the 1,246 purported scientists who'd put their name to the document by last night, MailOnline found social workers, midwives, dentists and trainee doctors.

There were also a handful of signatories who simply had 'medic' as their profession or a blank space beside their name.

MailOnline was able to sign the letter using a fictitious name and title, however, the pseudonym was not added to the published list of signees at the time of writing.

The document attacked the Government over policy that will have economic and health impacts England, and more widely Britain  yet people from all over the world were able to sign it.

MailOnline counted dozens of names from as far afield as New Zealand, Australia, India and Japan. Signees were also located in Mexico, the US, Canada and Argentina, as well as several countries around Europe.

A scathing letter which demanded Freedom Day be delayed was originally signed by 122 top scientists and doctors and published in The Lancet last week. Among the 122 signatories were, from top left, Lancet editor Dr Richard Horton, SAGE member Susan Michie, Dr Chaand Nagpaul, chairman of the British Medical Association (BMA) Council, former chief scientific adviser Sir David King, SAGE adviser Stephen Reicher and Oxford University's Professor Trisha Greenhalgh

But it was later republished on an online campaign website known as the John Snow Memorandum, where it gained more than 1,000 more signatures and made national headlines on Tuesday (the list shown above). Among the 1,246 purported scientists who'd put their name to the document by last night, MailOnline found social workers, midwives, dentists and trainee doctors. There were also a handful of signatories who simply had 'medic' as their profession or a blank space beside their name

A press release distributed by the group this week was titled: 'Scientists unite to condemn Government's "herd immunity by mass infection" plan.' The first line of the release read: '1,246 scientists sign Lancet letter as international outrage grows'

WHO WERE THE MOST HIGH PROFILE SIGNATORIES? Sir David King Sir David King Former chief scientific adviser Sir David was the UK Governments most senior scientific adviser from October 2000 to 31 December 2007. He is the director of research at the Department of Chemistry at Cambridge University. Sir David also chairs the Independent SAGE group, unaffiliated to government, that publishes advice aimed toward the UK government regarding the Covid pandemic. Sir David and the group have been highly critical of the Government's handling of the crisis. Dr Chaand Nagpaul Dr Chaand Nagpaul Chairman of the British Medical Association (BMA) Council. Dr Nagpaul is a GP in Stanmore, North London, and was elected as chair of the influential trade union for doctors in July 2017. He previously slammed No10 for shortening the dosing gap between Covid vaccines. It later transpired that a longer dosing regimen provided better protection. Professor Susan Michie Professor Susan Michie SAGE member and professor of health psychology at University College London Professor Michie is a senior member of the SAGE behavioural subgroup SPI-B. She has been a fervent Communist since 1978 and has previously called for social distancing and wearing face masks should stay forever. Professor Stephen Reicher Professor Stephen Reicher SAGE member and social psychologist at the University of St Andrews Professor Reicher is another senior member of SPI-B. He has previously criticised the Government for allowing the Cummings row to undermine public trust. Professor Robert West Robert West SAGE member and health psychologist at University College London Professor West is also a Spi-B member and prominent psychologist in University College London's Institute of Epidemiology and Healthcare. He has previously criticised the Government for allowing 70,000 deaths a year from smoking. Professor Tolullah Oni SAGE member and urban epidemiologist Professor Oni is a Nigerian urban epidemiologist at the Medical Research Council Epidemiology Unit at the University of Cambridge. She is a NextEinstein Forum Fellow and World Economic Forum Young Global Leader. Dr Richard Horton Dr Richard Horton Editor of The Lancet Dr Horton joined the prestigious medical journal in 1990 and was appointed editor-in-chief five years later. Since the pandemic began he has accused ministers and their advisers of failing to act properly or quickly enough. Advertisement

Dr Simon Clarke, a microbiologist from the University of Reading, told MailOnline that allowing people who were not scientists or practicing medical professionals within the UK to sign the letter was 'misleading'.

He added the UK was in a 'unique position' to most countries around the world because of its highly successful vaccination rollout, which gives it the luxury to be one of the first countries to relax Covid curbs fully.

'I think think asking people who are not working or practicing in uk to comment on policy which is English but may have ramifications for other parts of the UK is potentially misleading.

'And I don't think right if we [British experts] were to comment on country specific policies elsewhere in the world it would be particularly welcome.'

In the Lancet letter, the original 122 experts demanded the Government reconsider its plan to abandon all restrictions in England on Monday, describing it as 'premature'.

They warned that going ahead with Freedom Day despite accepting there could be hundreds of thousands of infections each day is both 'unethical and illogical'.

Allowing Covid to rip through the country will leave 'hundreds of thousands with long-term illness and disability' due to the effects of the virus itself, as well as long Covid, they said.

Among the original signatories were Sir David King, a former chief scientific adviser under David Cameron's Government, and Dr Chaand Nagpaul, chairman of the British Medical Association (BMA) Council.

The letter was also signed by several of No10's own expert advisers, including Professor Susan Michie and Professor Stephen Reicher, highlighting the rift within SAGE over the July 19 unlocking.

After its original publication in the Lancet on July 7, the letter was then post to the John Snow Memorandum website, which was set up by medics and scientists who oppose Laissez-faire attitudes to Covid curbs.

A press release distributed by the group this week was titled: 'Scientists unite to condemn Government's "herd immunity by mass infection" plan.'

The first line of the release read: '1,246 scientists sign Lancet letter as international outrage grows.'

Dr Clarke told MailOnline: 'While some of these people will have opinions, and while those opinion might be valid, they shouldn't be presented as scientists and medical experts.



'I'm a microbiologist, I'm not an expert in delivering babies, so I wouldn't put my name to a pressure letter

.'

MailOnline has contacted The Lancet and the John Snow Memorandum for comment.

No10 is pressing on with Freedom Day despite the fact cases are expected to soar past 100,000 by August. Ministers insist vaccines will keep the disease at bay and are hopeful cases will start to fade naturally next month.

There is roughly one death per every 1,000 cases in Britain at the moment, down from one in 100 in previous waves, but officials expect this gap to get even wider as more people get vaccinated.

Hospital admissions, on the other hand, are rising again with latest figures showing there were 538 on July 10, an increase of about 40 per cent on the previous week.

That's more than double the number in early June, but experts say admissions are more mild and stay in hospital for a shorter time than in previous waves.

Writing in the letter, the experts said: 'This strategy risks creating a generation left with chronic health problems and disability, the personal and economic impacts of which might be felt for decades to come.'

They added: 'The Prime Ministers statement today leaves little doubt that the governments latest pandemic plan involves exposing millions of people to acute and long-term impacts of mass infection. We believe it is a terrible mistake.

It says that it will put intense pressure on struggling healthcare services and will lead to many avoidable deaths and long-term illness, placing at risk children and the clinically vulnerable and immunosuppressed.

The statement continued: A strategy that chooses mass infection in children and young people now as a way to protect the vulnerable in winter, instead of taking the time to vaccinate our young is unethical and unscientific.

The group also included the lead author of the Lancet memo, clinical epidemiologist Dr Deepti Gurdasani, a senior lecturer in machine learning at Queen Mary University, Professor Trish Greenhalgh of Oxford University, as well as Professor Christina Pagel of University College London and Professor Martin McKee of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, both of whom are members of Independent SAGE.

They also stressed there was a risk of long Covid to the wider population, especially those who were vulnerable, younger people and children, as well as people who were unvaccinated.

The letter suggested the lifting of restrictions could make the disruption of children's education more not less likely.

It stated: 'Allowing transmission to continue over the summer will create a reservoir of infection, which will probably accelerate spread when schools and universities reopen in autumn.'

The letter called on the Government to reconsider 'its current strategy and take urgent steps to protect the public, including children'.

It said: 'We believe the Government is embarking on a dangerous and unethical experiment, and we call on it to pause plans to abandon mitigations on July 19 2021.

'Instead, the Government should delay complete reopening until everyone, including adolescents, have been offered vaccination and uptake is high, and until mitigation measures, especially adequate ventilation (through investment in carbon dioxide monitors and air filtration devices) and spacing (eg by reducing class sizes), are in place in schools.'
The parents of baby boy mauled to death by the family dog told a neighbour they trusted the pet '100 per cent'.

A distraught neighbour, from Kariong on the New South Wales Central Coast, has recounted the chilling conversation she had with the baby's mother and father after it dragged her dog under a fence and 'tore it to shreds'.

The woman said she spoke with the couple in the days after the mauling death of her cocker spaniel 'Arrow' on June 6 - the same day the baby boy was born.

'They came over here to talk about Arrow dying... told me they trusted their dog 100 per cent,' the shaken neighbour said.

'It keeps playing over and over in my head.'

Tragically, five weeks later in the early hours of July 11, the American Staffordshire dragged the baby, named Jaylen, from his bed. The baby could not be revived.

Little Jaylen was attacked by the family dog in the early hours of June 11. He died in his home

On the day little Jaylen was born, the dog attacked a neighbour's six-year-old cocker spaniel, Arrow (pictured), who had stuck his head under the fence to say hello to the much bigger dog

Police described the horrific death as a 'tragic accident' and said they would not go into details out of respect for the baby's parents who were inconsolable.

Outside the rental house, where the couple had only lived for a couple of months, soft toys and bunches of flowers were left on the lawn, with messages of condolences.

'May little Jaylen be in the company of angels,' one tribute said.

'Rest in peace baby boy,' another said.

It is understood the couple is too traumatised to return and are staying with family in Sydney.

The dog was removed and later euthanised.

Pictured: A distraught man believed outside the home the day of the tragic accident

Mourners have created a memorial out the front of Jaylen's home in the wake of his tragic death

Both she and her husband weren't able to part with Arrow after his death, and he is now buried in the backyard, up against the opposite fence to where he was snatched

Council rangers were investigating the matter and the dog was the subject of a temperament assessment before it killed little Jaylen.

When Arrow's owner thinks back to the state of her beloved cocker spaniel's battered and bloodied body when she found him, her eyes still well with tears.

'He was all torn up,' she said. 'That dog ripped him to shreds.'

Council rangers who responded to the gruesome scene were reportedly in tears when they found Arrow.

One ranger was so moved by what she saw that she delivered a letter of condolence to Arrow's owners.

'I told the council to take the dog away,' the neighbour said.

Several teddy bears and bouquets of flowers were left out the front of the Kariong home on Wednesday afternoon

Friends and strangers have dropped flowers and written notes sending well wishes as family members come to grips with the tragedy

Neighbours woke to screams just after 2am on the morning of the incident.

They were alerted that something was amiss when they noticed every light in the house appeared to be on.

'I was tired... my first thought was that she was turning all the lights on just to feed her baby,' a neighbour said.

There were no sirens from authorities, but as time wore on they realised that something far more sinister had occurred.

The couple have set up a shrine to him, complete with a cross-shaped headstone and flower. Their beloved cat Misty, who died of old age just weeks before Arrow, is buried nearby

'I just can't stop thinking about it... about how this could happen.'

While the breed of the dog has been reported as an American Staffordshire, Arrow's owner is certain there was a mixture of other breed in it too.

Fatal attacks on Arrow and Jaylen have prompted the animal-lover neighbours next door to pick up and move after spending years in their Central Coast home.

'We just can't stay,' the woman said. 'We'll take our dogs and cat and chickens to Nowra where they'll be more comfortable and safe.'

The couple had only recently moved to the neighbourhood, settling in just two months before the tragedy in time to give birth.
SAGE adviser Professor Callum Semple says portraying Covid as only affecting the old is 'naive'

More than a quarter of Covid hospital patients in their twenties suffer organ damage, a study has suggested.

SAGE member Professor Callum Semple, one of the authors of the research, said the narrative that the virus only affects the elderly was 'naive'.

The study analysed more than 70,000 people admitted with the virus across the UK last year.

They found half suffered the complication, with the kidney, lungs and heart the most commonly affected organs.

Over-60s were the most affected group but complication rates weren't trivial in younger adults, according to researchers from the universities of Liverpool and Edinburgh.

In total, 27 per cent of 19-to-29-year-olds admitted to hospital with Covid suffered organ damage, with liver problems particularly prevalent among younger patients.

People in their 30s saw a higher proportion still, with 37 per cent of patients developing a complication.

The researchers were not able to measure the severity of the organ damage across different patients because they were not tracked after they left hospital.

Experts warned the third wave of the pandemic this summer could cause even more complications, because a greater proportion of patients admitted to hospital are young people this time around.

More than a quarter of people in their 20s hospitalised with Covid last year developed complications including kidney, lung and heart problems, a real-world data study has revealed

Professor Semple said: 'The message around Covid being a disease for the frail and the elderly  what we realise now is that paradigm is naive.

'Young people will get damage from this disease and it will leave a legacy on the rest of their lives and how they want to live. SARS-Cov-2 (which causes Covid) is a nasty virus, its not just another flu.'

WHAT ARE THE LONG-TERM SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19? Most coronavirus patients will recover within a fortnight, suffering a fever, cough and losing their sense of smell or taste for several days. However, evidence is beginning to show that the tell-tale symptoms of the virus can persist for weeks on end in 'long haulers'  the term for patients plagued by lasting complications. Data from the COVID Symptom Study app, by King's College London and health company Zoe, suggests one in ten people may still have symptoms after three weeks, and some may suffer for months. Long term symptoms include: Chronic tiredness

Breathlessness

Raised heart rate

Delusions

Strokes

Insomnia

Loss of taste/smell

Kidney disease

Mobility issues

Headaches

Muscle pains

Fevers For those with more severe disease, Italian researchers who tracked 143 people who had been hospitalised with the disease found almost 90 per cent still had symptoms including fatigue two months after first falling unwell. The most common complaints were fatigue, a shortness of breath and joint pain - all of which were reported during their battle with the illness. Another study in Italy showed one in ten people who lose their sense of taste and smell with the coronavirus - now recognised as a key sign of the infection - may not get it back within a month. The study, published in the journal JAMA Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, involved 187 Italians who had the virus but who were not ill enough to be admitted to hospital. The UK's Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty has said the longer term impacts of Covid-19 on health 'may be significant'. Support groups such as Long Covid have popped up online for those who 'have suspected Covid-19 and your experience doesn't follow the textbook symptoms or recovery time'. Advertisement

The study  the largest of its kind  looked at Covid patient data from more than 300 hospitals between last March and August.

It found 60-to-69-year-olds were most likely to develop complications, with 5,954 of 11,139 suffering an issue separate to the original disease  54 per cent.

They were followed by those in their 70s (52 per cent), 80s (51 per cent) and 90s (50 per cent).

Dr Thomas Drake, a data scientist from the University of Edinburgh, said the trend was different to the risk of death, which increases sharply as people age rather than plateauing after 50.

While complications were still common in younger people, the scientists noted they had a smaller sample size to work with because so few young people were admitted during the first wave of the epidemic.

Just 1,500 patients in the study were in their 20s, compared to 19,900 in their 80s.

Kidney damage  which can affect people for their entire lives  was the most common complication, with 24 per cent of all patients suffering damage.

Lung injuries (18 per cent) were the second most common, while heart issues affected 12 per cent patients.

Organs can become damaged when the immune system overreacts to Covid infection, causing itself to attack healthy tissue while trying to fight off the virus  a process known as systemic inflammation.

Covid also causes blood clots that can migrate to major organs in the body and cut off their blood supply, leading to damage.

Joint senior author Professor Ewen Harrison, a surgeon and data scientist at the University of Edinbugh, said: 'Patients in hospital with Covid frequently had complications of the disease, even those in younger age groups and without pre-existing health conditions.

'These complications could affect any organ, but particularly the kidney, heart and lungs.

'Those with complications had poorer health on discharge from hospital, and some will have long-term consequences.

'We now have a more detailed understanding of Covid and the risks posed, even to younger otherwise healthy people.'

He added: 'Our review highlights some insightful patterns and trends that can inform healthcare systems and policy maker responses to the impacts of Covid.

'Our results can also inform public health messaging on the risk Covid poses to younger otherwise healthy people at a population level, particularly in terms of the importance of vaccination for this group.'

Dr Drake said: 'Complications were common in all age groups, not just in older people or those with pre-existing health conditions.

'People who have complications will often need expert care and extra help to recover from their initial hospital admission.'

Researchers said the data does not provide a long-term picture and that the timings of complications and patients quality of life were not studied.

The conditions looked for in the study were decided on before it took place so not all organ damage caused by Covid would have been included.

Patients were not tested for multiple complications so the true number may have been higher.
A 13-year-old girl was killed by a pack of dogs while walking near her family's home on the Navajo Nation in Arizona, an autopsy has confirmed.

Lyssa Rose Upshaw had extensive injuries consistent with canine teeth marks, including cuts and abrasions on her neck and head and deep soft tissue wounds on her legs.

Her clothes were torn and she was covered in dirt after she was attacked in mid May, according to an autopsy requested by The Associated Press and released this week by the medical examiner's office in Coconino County.

Lyssa Rose Upshaw, 13, was killed by dogs while taking a walk near her family's home

An autopsy ordered by the Associated Press has confirmed the official cause of death

The Navajo Nation stretches more than 27,000 sq mi across Southwest states

Her mother, Marissa 'Ris' Rose Jones, has suspected dogs were to blame ever since she saw her daughter curled up off a dirt trail on May 16 in Fort Defiance, but she has been awaiting an official cause.

'I never thought that would ever happen to my daughter,' she said. 'She was a dog lover.'

Jones had allowed her to go for a walk on a jogging trail over a hill as long as she was back by 5.30pm.

When the teenager didn't show up by 5.45pm, Jones sent her son out to look for her.

By 6pm, Jones had enlisted her sisters and cousins in the search, according to the Navajo Times.

Jones says she was also bitten on the arm by a dog, part of a pack of 'about 20' owned by her cousin's neighbor, while she was looking for her daughter.

When Jones found her daughter, 'her legs were all chewed up,' she recalled.

'She was gone.'

The neighboring family hid the dogs by the time animal control arrived, but 12 of them were later taken into custody as evidence.

'They hid the dogs that attacked and killed my daughter from animal control,' she wrote in a Facebook post dated May 17. 'What is wrong with these people?'

Fort Defiance is located in Apache County, most of which is part of the Navajo Nation.

The medical examiner classified Upshaw's death as accidental.

The deadly attack has renewed discussion across the reservation about how to hold people accountable for their pets.

Some 250,000 stray and neglected dogs roam the Navajo Nation, according to estimates published by the Santa Fe New Mexican.

Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez (center) vetoed a recent resolution to establish criminal penalties for owners of dogs that cause deadly attacks, saying it needed more input

An estimated quarter of a million stray and neglected dogs roam the Navajo Nation

Tribal lawmakers recently passed a resolution to establish criminal penalties, but Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez vetoed it, saying it didn't go far enough and needs more input.

There are only five officers to help address dog attacks in the entire Navajo Nation, which stretches more than 27,000 sq mi across Arizona, New Mexico and Utah.

Animal control officers are not currently allowed to issue citations over dog attacks because they are not commissioned officers of the Navajo Police Department, according to the Navajo Times.

At least a handful of deaths in the area over the years have been blamed on dog packs, and numerous other people have been injured.

None of the tribe's animal control laws, which are considered civil offenses, hold dog owners responsible for deaths.

In the meantime, Nez said he would approve $1.2 million to hire more animal control officers.

Michael Henderson, the tribe's criminal investigations director, said tribal charges are being considered in Upshaw's death as authorities gather more evidence and await results for specimens collected from the dogs that belonged to a neighbor.

'The case is pretty far from being closed, far from being just put aside as an accident or a civil matter or anything like that,' he said.

'We're still very aggressively pursuing to understand the case to the extent to where if there are any criminal elements attached to what happened.'

The FBI is conducting some of the lab testing.

Henderson said he has spoken with federal prosecutors whose initial response was that the case is not one that could be charged under a limited set of crimes for which the federal government has jurisdiction on tribal land.

Tribes have concurrent jurisdiction but often seek federal charges because they carry much stiffer penalties than under tribal law.

The maximum time in jail that the Navajo Nation could impose for any crime, regardless of the severity, is one year.

Esther Winne, a spokeswoman for the U.S. Attorney's Office for Arizona, couldn't say whether Upshaw's case has been referred to federal prosecutors.

The FBI did not respond to a message from the AP.

Jones said her 'baby girl' who had aspirations of running on the high school cross country team deserved more compassion and sympathy from the neighbors who owned the dogs and more attention from investigators on the case.

She has been pushing for jail time and fines for whoever is found responsible, though Henderson acknowledged there's not a clear path.

'I'm hoping and I'm praying for my daughter to get her justice,' Jones said.
Researchers have called for long-Covid symptom lists to be expanded

There may be more than 200 symptoms of long Covid, according to a global study.

Little is known about the debilitating condition, which can see survivors left battling fatigue and headaches months after beating the virus.

But researchers are now getting closer to understanding the vast range of symptoms linked with the condition and how long they last.

They say each long Covid patient suffers an average 56 different symptoms over the course of their recovery - including bizarre ailments such as noting their penis shrink in size and irregular period.

University College London experts quizzed almost 4,000 'long haulers' from around the world about their post-Covid experience.

Patients reported a mix of 203 symptoms, with participants experiencing an average of 56 different ones, on average.

Researchers found the symptoms affect 10 different organs, including the heart, lungs, brain and bowel.

The researchers found that the probability of still suffering from symptoms after becoming infected decreased over time (left). The prevalence of very mild and mild symptoms increased over time, while moderate symptoms plateaued after six months. But severe and very severe symptoms became less common over time (middle). People who recovered in 90 days of catching Covid found that their symptoms progressively improved, but for those who still had problems after 90 days found that their symptoms stopped improving after six months (right)

Fatigue was the most common symptom, affecting an estimated 535,000 people, followed by shortness of breath striking 397,000 and muscle ache hitting 309,000, according to the Office for National Statistics

Tiredness was the most common symptom, with 98.3 per cent of the over-18s who were asked suffering from it.

This was followed by post-exertional malaise (89 per cent), which is the worsening of symptoms after physical or mental exercise, and brain fog (85.1 per cent).

WHAT ARE THE LONG-TERM SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19? Most coronavirus patients will recover within a fortnight, suffering a fever, cough and losing their sense of smell or taste for several days. However, evidence is beginning to show that the tell-tale symptoms of the virus can persist for weeks on end in 'long haulers'  the term for patients plagued by lasting complications. Data from the Covid Symptom Study app, by King's College London and health company Zoe, suggests one in ten people may still have symptoms after three weeks, and some may suffer for months. Long term symptoms include: Chronic tiredness

Breathlessness

Raised heart rate

Delusions

Strokes

Insomnia

Loss of taste/smell

Kidney disease

Mobility issues

Headaches

Muscle pains

Fevers For those with more severe disease, Italian researchers who tracked 143 people who had been hospitalised with the disease found almost 90 per cent still had symptoms including fatigue two months after first falling unwell. The most common complaints were fatigue, a shortness of breath and joint pain - all of which were reported during their battle with the illness. Source: NHS Advertisement

Others reported hallucinations, tremors, itchy skin, changes to the menstrual cycle, sexual dysfunction, heart palpitations, diarrhoea and tinnitus.

Not all of the reported symptoms are definitely going to be caused by long-Covid, as the study was merely based on responses from affected patients  it means over-reporting is possible.

Experts found 96 per cent of volunteers had symptoms for three months, while 91.8 per cent were still suffering after eight months.

People who recovered quicker had few symptoms  reaching a maximum of 11 at once  but people who had the condition for more than seven months went on to experience up to 17 symptoms at once.

The report  which was published today in the Lancet's EClinicalMedicine journal  is the largest international study of long Covid patients.

The research team, that worked with UCL scientists, all have long-Covid and want clinical guidelines for assessing the condition to be widened because lots of patients suffer in silence.

The NHS lists 21 different symptoms for the condition, including tiredness, shortness of breath and chest pain.

Studies estimates that up to 30 per cent of people who have symptomatic Covid will still be suffering 12 weeks later.

Doctors can diagnose long-Covid by asking patients about their symptoms. There is currently no cure for the condition, so patients are given advice on how to self-manage their symptoms.

Dr Athena Akrami, senior author of the study, said: 'While there has been a lot of public discussion around long Covid, there are few systematic studies investigating this population.

'Hence relatively little is known about its range of symptoms, and their progression over time, the severity, and expected clinical course (longevity), its impact on daily functioning, and expected return to baseline health.

'In this unique approach, we have gone directly to long haulers around the world in order to establish a foundation of evidence for medical investigation, improvement of care, and advocacy for the long Covid population.

'This is the most comprehensive characterisation of long Covid symptoms, so far.'

NHS England has already created 89 clinics to offer specialist care and worked with the National Institue of Health Research to give 50million to fund research of the condition.

Meanwhile, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has published guidance for doctors on how to manage the condition.
WASHINGTON (AP) - Facebook is asking that the new head of the Federal Trade Commission step away from decisions on whether to continue the agency's antitrust case against the social network giant, asserting that past public criticism of the companys market power makes it impossible for her to be impartial.

Facebook Inc. petitioned the agency Wednesday to remove Chair Lina Khan from taking part in decisions on the FTC's antitrust lawsuit against the company. A federal judge recently dismissed the suit by the FTC and one from a coalition of states, saying they didn't provide enough evidence to prove that Facebook is a monopoly in the social networking market. The judge, however, allowed the FTC to revise its complaint and try again.

Khan has been a persistent critic of Amazon, Google and Apple, as well as Facebook.

FTC officials declined comment on Facebooks motion, which came two weeks after Amazon requested that Khan be removed from taking part in antitrust investigations of that company. The agency could be expected to respond formally at some point. Khan has said she would seek the opinion of FTC ethics monitors if issues arose of potential conflict of interest.

It's not known how internal FTC rules on conflict of interest might be interpreted in this case. On the face of it, though, "the fact that (Khan) has a point of view and has expressed it forcefully is not a basis for recusal," said Stephen Gillers, a law professor at New York University who is an expert on ethics.

In its petition, Facebook cited a 1966 ruling by a federal court disqualifying the FTC chair at the time from participating in a proceeding against the defendant company because he had earlier investigated many of the same facts concerning the company as a congressional aide.

FILE - In this April 21, 2021, file photo, Lina Khan, nominee for Commissioner of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), speaks during a Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation confirmation hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington. Facebook on Wednesday, July 14 2021, is asking that Khan, the new head of the Federal Trade Commission, step away from antitrust investigations into the social network giant, asserting that her past public criticism of the company's market power makes it impossible for her to be impartial. (Graeme Jennings/Pool Washington via AP, Pool, File)

As counsel to a House Judiciary antitrust panel in 2019 and 2020, Khan played a key role in an extensive bipartisan investigation of the market power of tech giants, including Facebook.

In the 1966 case, then-FTC chair Paul Rand Dixon likely had access to relevant information through his congressional work. Gillers said that for Khan, who likely helped write the House committee's report on its investigation, the question is did she herself develop facts regarding Facebook in doing so, and in her current role will she be called upon to decide whether those facts are true. In other words, will she be judging the accuracy of her own prior work?

If Khan were to step aside, the FTC's current balance of three Democratic and two Republican commissioners would shift and could deadlock a decision on the Facebook case in a 2-2 tie. The two Republican commissioners voted against bringing the Facebook suit last year.

The requests from Facebook and Amazon come as the four tech giants fall under extreme scrutiny and legislative pressure from the FTC, the Justice Department, European regulators, lawmakers in Washington, and, most recently, from an executive order from the White House.

"When a new commissioner has already drawn factual and legal conclusions and deemed the target a lawbreaker, due process requires that individual to recuse herself from related matters when acting in the capacity of an FTC commissioner," Facebook said in its petition. "Chair Khan has consistently made public statements not only accusing Facebook of conduct that merits disapproval, but specifically expressing her belief that the conduct meets the elements of an antitrust offense."

President Joe Biden recently installed Khan as one of five commissioners and head of the FTC, signaling a tough stance toward Big Tech and its market dominance. At 32, she is the youngest chair in the history of the agency, which polices competition and consumer protection in industry generally, as well as digital privacy.

Facebook said it was making the request "to protect the fairness and impartiality" of the agency's antitrust proceedings. "Chair Khan has consistently made well-documented statements about Facebook and antitrust matters that would lead any reasonable observer to conclude that she has prejudged the Facebook antitrust case brought by the FTC," the company said in a statement.

Bidens sweeping executive order on competition in U.S. industries, issued Friday, includes a new policy of closer scrutiny by regulators of proposed mergers, especially by dominant internet companies. Giant tech companies have snapped up competitors in hundreds of mergers in recent years, waved through by antitrust enforcers in both Republican and Democratic administrations.

The new order also asks the FTC to establish new rules on surveillance by tech giants and their accumulation of users data. In addition, the agency is requested to write rules barring unfair practices toward competitors in online marketplaces.

Last month ambitious legislation that could curb the market power of Facebook, Google, Amazon and Apple, and force them to sever their dominant platforms from their other lines of business was approved by a key House committee and sent to the full U.S. House. Some lawmakers and others critical of Facebook have cited its popular Instagram and WhatsApp messaging services as likely candidates to be divested from the core platform.

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Follow Marcy Gordon at https://twitter.com/mgordonap

FILE - In this Oct. 25, 2019, file photo, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg speaks at the Paley Center in New York. FILE - In this April 23, 2021, file photo, the Facebook app is shown in the app store on a smart phone in Surfside, Fla. Facebook on Wednesday, July 14 2021, is asking that the new head of the Federal Trade Commission step away from antitrust investigations into the social network giant, asserting that her past public criticism of the company's market power makes it impossible for her to be impartial. ( (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan, FIle)
Jose Alfredo Hernandez Campos, who is also known as El Metro 27 and is an alleged high-ranking leader in the Gulf Cartel, was sprung out a local jail in Tamaulipas, Mexico, by a commando group Tuesday

Mexican authorities have launched a search for a high-ranking Gulf Cartel leader after an armed gang dressed in military gear busted into a holding facility across from McAllen, Texas and helped him escape.

Jose Alfredo Hernandez Campos, who is also known as El Metro 27, was sprung out of the Reynosa, Tamaulipas, prosecutor's jail around 7pm Tuesday, just 24 hours after he had been arrested in the municipality of Diaz Ordaz.

The mission took place after Gulf Cartel leader Cesar 'Primito' Morfin had offered the police a $1 million to allow Hernandez Campos to walk out of prison. The cops refused.

According to local reports, at least 30 men carrying rifles barged inside the building and subdued the guards before placing Hernandez Campos in an ambulance and escaping

He was being held pending an initial appearance before a judge, according to the Attorney General's Office for the state of Tamaulipas.

Security forces fanned out looking for the commando but came under fire from men in a vehicle.

The police returned fire, killing one of the occupants and detaining another.

Jose Alfredo Hernandez Campos is behind the operations of the Gulf Cartel's Metros cell, which was reportedly involved the massacre of 19 individuals, including 16 Guatemalan migrants in January. Pictured above are security forces inspecting a vehicle discovered in Camargo with 15 burned bodies

One of those suspects had an identification card purportedly from the Defense Department, though it was not clear if it was genuine. Both had rifles and wore military-style camouflage clothing.

Another two suspects were detained later. Hernandez Campos was not among the suspects in the car.

In recent years, Hernandez Campos has steered away from the spotlight while handling the Gulf Cartel's operations in the Tamaulipas cities of Diaz Ordaz and Valadeces.

An elite police unit apprehended him Monday night.

He was taken to the jail at the local police station but just 24 hours later, he was freed by a gang of armed men.

Hernandez Campos steered away from the spotlight while handling the Gulf Cartel's operations in the Tamaulipas cities of Diaz Ordaz and Valadeces

According to La Opinion, Hernandez Campos oversees a cartel cell that was behind the January massacre of 19 individuals, including 16 Guatemalan migrants, who were shot and burned beyond recognition.

The Metros are one of the larger factions of the now-splintered Gulf cartel, who have been fighting rival factions for control of the area, including the smuggling of migrants.

Hernandez Campos is being accused of drug trafficking and trafficking undocumented migrants across the United States-Mexico border.

Assaults by cartel gunmen to free captured suspects are not uncommon in Tamaulipas, where remnants of the Gulf Cartel and the old Zetas gang have been carrying out turf battles for more than a decade.

The border cities are lucrative routes for smuggling drugs and migrants.
A wealthy Democratic paid men 'to come to his home to use drugs and engage in sex play to satisfy a fetish,' prosecutors said.

Ed Buck, 66, who paid $500,000 to mostly Democratic politicians, is currently on trial for charges of providing fatal doses to two men, running a drug den and persuading others to travel for prostitution.

The businessman and animal activist, who once mingled with elite Democrats such as Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, and Gavin Newsom, now faces nine felonies that could put him in prison for life if convicted.

Ed Buck, 66, (pictured) is currently on trial for charges of providing fatal doses to two men, running a drug den and persuading others to travel for prostitution

During Tuesday's opening statements, Buck's nine-count indictment outlined experiences of his drug den where two men died, and several others were injured

The businessman and animal activist, (pictured in 2010) who once mingled with elite Democrats such as Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, and Gavin Newsom, now faces nine felonies that could put him in prison for life if convicted

During Tuesday's opening statements, Buck's nine-count indictment outlined experiences of his drug den where two men died, and several others were injured.

Prosecutors claim Buck provided fatal doses of methamphetamine to Gemmel Moore, 26, and Timothy Dean, 55.

However, the defense argues all the men at Buck's apartment were there under their own will, and Moore and Dean did not die from methamphetamine.

Although Buck said through his lawyers the activity was consensual, the U.S. Attorney's Office plans to have witnesses recount horror stories of barely escaping alive.

Buck's arrest marked a turning point for activists who rallied outside his West Hollywood apartment and pressured law enforcement to act after Moore, died on his floor in 2017.

Dean, 55, died 18 months later, and Buck was arrested in September 2019 after one man overdosed twice in one week.

Prosecutors claim Buck provided fatal doses of methamphetamine to Gemmel Moore, 26, (right) and Timothy Dean, 55 (left)

However, the defense argues all the men at Buck's apartment (pictured) were there under their own will, and Moore and Dean did not die from methamphetamine.

Buck, a wealthy white man who was active in gay and animal rights issues, exploited vulnerable men - most of them black - paying them to come to his home, use drugs, then engage in sex play to satisfy a fetish, prosecutors said.

Carlos Sinclair was among those individuals.

According to testimony, Sinclair was plucked out of a homeless encampment in 2018 to play sexual fetish drug games in Buck's West Hollywood apartment, The Washington Examiner reports.

Sinclair was pressured to inject methamphetamine, along with the date-rape drug GHP against his will.

At one point, Sinclair passed out after smoking the drugs and discovered Buck had injected him while he was asleep, according to journalist Jasmyne Cannick.

'When I woke up, Ed Buck was sitting on me and facing me, injecting me with crystal meth,' Cannick recounted Sinclair testifying. '[Buck] said, 'Don't move because there is a needle in your arm.' Carlos said he felt violated.'

'Bucks preference was to personally inject victims, and he pressured or incentivized victims to let him do so, sometimes offering large cash bonuses to coerce a victim to agree to an injection or additional injections,' prosecutors said in court papers.

Dean's sister, Joyce Jackson, (left), speaks outside the Los Angeles federal courthouse where Ed Buck went on trial Tuesday for the fatal methamphetamine overdoses of her brother.

'Other times, Buck simply injected victims while they were unconscious.'

One man, who said he was paid $300 as an escort, said Buck gave him what he said was meth, but it immobilized him on the floor for more than six hours.

Buck told the man to leave, but the man explained he couldnt move. When Buck approached him with a buzzing power saw, the man said a surge of adrenalin drove him get to his feet and escape.

Neighbors are expected to testify to a constant flow of men coming and going from Buck's apartment that only ebbed after the deaths before eventually picking back up.

One neighbor said Buck told him he was a social worker helping the men.

Several men are expected to testify about Bucks 'compulsion to pump drugs into others regardless of the consequences,' prosecutors said.

Some told investigators they believe Buck gave them the powerful doses of GHP, which left them unconscious.

That alleged victim, Dane Brown, told investigators he had been living in a hotel on Skid Row when he met Buck on Adam4Adam, a gay dating and escort site.

He moved in with Buck for part of the summer of 2019 and said Buck injected him with meth nearly daily for five weeks, according to court documents.

The second time Brown overdosed, he asked Buck to call an ambulance. When Buck refused, Brown left the apartment and called 911 from a nearby gas station and revived at a hospital.

Prosecutors said Brown was lucky to survive. He is expected to testify at trial, providing a first-hand account that neither Moore nor Dean lived to tell.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office has filed two drug counts and a charge of battery but no death charge, The Washington Examiner reports.

The case has a September 23 court date.
A Sydney father-of-four struck down by coronavirus has recalled his harrowing ordeal in a desperate plea for everyone to get vaccinated in a confronting video from his hospital bed.

Khaled Elmasri, 47, was rushed to hospital and almost ended up fighting for life in intensive care because he struggled to breathe.

Almost one week on, his condition has improved but still remains in hospital with a breathing tube inserted in him as he issued a powerful plea to Sydney's Arabic community.

'Of course, I know and knew Covid-19 is a real disease, but I don't think that before now, I took it seriously enough,' Mr Elmasri said from his hospital bed.

Father-of-four Khaled Elmasri (pictured) has opened up about his Covid-19 battle

'I was careful, but I don't think I was careful enough. I should have committed 100 per cent.'

'It is only now after a few days that I can talk and breathe a bit more normally.'

'Take covid seriously. It's a serious, heavy disease.'

Mr Elmasri is from Belmore in Sydney's south-west region, which has seen a rapid spike in cases as the city's latest outbreak worsens.

He regrets putting plans to get vaccinated on the backburner.

Khaled Elmasri (pictured in hospital) is now urging everyone to get the Covid-19 jab

'Take the vaccine program seriously. I didn't take it seriously enough to put my name down for a vaccine beforehand. With hindsight I feel like I should have done that,' he said.

'And now I'm going to get the vaccine.'

Mr Elmasri wanted to shared his story to urge his friends family and the community to take the virus more seriously.

His GP at Belmore Medical Centre also took part in the video to help spread the important message.

The father-of-four regrets putting plans to vaccinate on the backburner. Pictured are Sydneysiders queueing to get the jab at Sydney Olympic Park

'Khalid wants to share the following video so people can take the advice from someone who got very sick,' Dr Jamal Rifi said.

'Because we don't want any of you to go through what he experienced.'

The NSW government has injected $2 million into helping multicultural organisations spread the message about getting vaccinated and following Covid 19-restrictions, with Sydney's lockdown extended another two weeks until at least July 30.

Lakemba Mosque released a Facebook video on Wednesday featuring community leaders, including a Canterbury Bankstown councillor to help spread coronavirus messaging.
Bill Clinton took two trips with Ghislaine Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein - including one on the pedophile's private jet - that have not been previously disclosed.

A new podcast reveals that the former President flew on Epstein's jet, which was dubbed the 'Lolita Express', in February 2005 while visiting Japan, Taiwan and China.

Clinton also flew on a private jet owned by billionaire Ron Burkle with Maxwell as a passenger during a trip to India in November 2003.

That visit was part of Clinton's work with the Clinton Foundation, his philanthropic initiative, to lower the cost of AIDS drugs.

According to journalist Vicky Ward, Maxwell was part of the official Clinton party and even stayed at the same hotel as him.

Ward reveals the details in her new podcast 'Chasing Ghislaine', which is available from Thursday on Audible Originals.

A new podcast reveals that Bill Clinton flew on Jeffrey Epstein's private jet in February 2005 while visiting Japan, Taiwan and China. Pictured together in 1993

This is Jeffrey Epstein's infamous 'Lolita Express' - a private Boeing 727 airliner that carried prominent passengers - including Bill Clinton - and allegedly underage girls

Few details about Epstein's role in Clinton's trip to China have been revealed before but were hinted at by reports. The New York Times, reporting on Clinton's stop in Taiwan , said that he arrived from Japan by 'private plane' but gave no further details. Clinton is pictured in China in 2005

The podcast claims that Maxwell used Clinton for her 'escape' from Epstein in the 2000s when her relationship with the financier was cooling.

Maxwell was considered by Clinton's personal staff to be 'just as important' as Epstein for raising money for the Clinton Foundation and was the 'go-to person' when it came to asking for donations from the pedophile.

The claims put new focus on the friendship between the former President and Epstein, who hanged himself in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.

Flight logs showed that Clinton took at least 26 trips aboard the 'Lolita Express' -- even apparently ditching his Secret Service detail for at least five of the flights between 2001 and 2003.

The period where Epstein and Clinton were closest - the early 2000s - coincides with the period that Epstein was charged with running a sex trafficking ring.

Journalist Vicky Ward reveals the details in her new podcast 'Chasing Ghislaine', which is available from Thursday on Audible Originals

Clinton has always denied any involvement in any criminality and has claimed that has never visited Epstein's private island in the Caribbean as some reports have suggested.

But the connections between the two appear to have been strong and there were financial as well as social links lasting many years.

Maxwell is currently awaiting a November trial for allegedly procuring and trafficking underage girls for Epstein, charges she denies.

Ward has reported on the Epstein case for nearly two decades, first for Vanity Fair and now in her role as a CNN journalist.

She wrote a profile of Epstein for Vanity Fair in 2003 but the details of his alleged abuse of two young sisters was left out after Epstein contacted her editor, Graydon Carter, she claims.

According to 'Chasing Ghislaine', during the 2000s Maxwell was trying to escape the 'sick partnership' she had built with Epstein, who she dated during the early 1990s and allegedly abused underage girls with.

In the podcast, Ward says: 'Ghislaine used former President Bill Clinton for her escape.

'Remember, Clinton's post-presidency was an exciting, very attractive place to be. He and an entourage went on fascinating trips to Europe, to Asia, to Africa and he met with extremely interesting people.

'Now, records I've seen recently show that in 2003, Ghislaine visited the Taj Mahal with Bill Clinton and a group of around 20 others. This trip has not previously been reported. Jeffrey wasn't on it. And that was key in cementing Ghislaine's rise as a VIP in her own right in Clinton World, according to sources close to Bill Clinton'.

Ward claims that the trip in November that year was aboard a private jet owned by Ron Burkle, a close friend and billionaire who raised $10m for the Clintons before falling out with them.

A report on Kaiser Health News from November 2003 talks about Clinton visiting a generic drug maker to show support for lowering the cost of AIDS drugs.

A press release by the Clinton Foundation from 2006 refers to Clinton visiting India in November 2003 where pharmaceutical companies agreed to lower the price of antiretroviral medicines used to treat HIV by more than 50 percent.

Ward described Maxwell as being part of the 20 or so people who traveled with Clinton and stayed at his hotel.

Maxwell's friend Christopher Mason, a British journalist, tells the podcast: 'She was always, you know, on her way to something, to see someone of extraordinary importance.

'She was very excited by what she was about to do. And she told me that she was off to see Bill Clinton, and that-that seemed to be a leitlight motif in her conversation for quite a long time'.

Clinton also flew on a private jet owned by billionaire Ron Burkle with Maxwell as a passenger during a trip to India in November 2003

Ward claims that the trip in November that year was aboard a private jet owned by Burkle, a close friend and billionaire who raised $10m for the Clintons before falling out with them

In the podcast, Ward says: 'I've also only recently learned from sources close to Bill Clinton that he and his post-presidency staff considered Ghislaine to be just as important as Jeffrey - if not more so.

'She was the go-to person for 'financial asks' for Jeffrey's money by the Clinton Foundation and then the Global Initiative'.

Those 'asks' included Epstien and Maxwell contributing a 'high six-figure sum' in 2005 to be founding members of the Clinton Global Initiative, another of Clinton's philanthropic endeavours.

Ward says: 'This meant that Ghislaine was constantly being asked to Clinton VIP gatherings.

'There were heads of state there and important businessmen like Bill Gates and Google's co-founder Sergey Brin'.

Flight logs from one of Epstein's pilots show that between 2001 and 2003 Clinton took at least 26 flights aboard the pedophile's planes including trips to Asia and Africa where he was doing work for the Clinton Foundation.

A photo from 2002 on the Africa trip shows Clinton standing on the steps of Epstein's plane with his arm on the shoulder of a smiling Maxwell.

Also on the trip was a host of celebrities, including shamed actor Kevin Spacey and comedian Chris Tucker.

'Chasing Ghislaine' says that Epstein and Clinton were so close that the pedophile would brag to friends about serving him peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

According to a transcript of one of Ward's interviews with Epstein, he told her that Clinton was 'shocked' when he found out they were serving the filling on his private jet.

Epstein said that Clinton asked 'why are we serving peanut butter and jelly' but it was on the menu because Epstein liked it.

A photo from 2002 on the Africa trip shows Clinton standing on the steps of Epstein's plane with his arm on the shoulder of a smiling Maxwell

On a trip to Africa was a host of celebrities, including shamed actor Kevin Spacey, comedian Chris Tucker and Bill Clinton - who all traveled there on Epstein's Lolita Express

Ward reveals for the first time another trip that Clinton took on Epstein's jet, in February 2005 to China, Taiwan and Japan to promote his memoirs.

Ward says in the podcast: 'They were joined by Ted Waitt, a billionaire who ran Gateway Computers.

'He was at a dinner in Beijing. This was the start of Ghislaine's next chapter, say two sources close to Clinton. From that moment on, Ghislaine and Ted got tighter and tighter. Jeffrey seemed to be completely left behind'.

Maxwell would go on to date Waitt for some years and he would become her first serious boyfriend after Epstein.

Few details about Epstein's role in Clinton's trip to China have been revealed before but were hinted at by reports.

The New York Times, reporting on Clinton's stop in Taiwan, said that he arrived from Japan by 'private plane' but gave no further details.

In Taiwan Clinton met the country's Foreign Minister Chen Tan-sun and had dinner with then President Chen Shui-bian - it is not known if Epstein was present.

A report on China Daily talks about Clinton signing an agreement with the Chinese health ministry to provide $70,000 worth of AIDS drugs after landing in China.

It is not known what kind of access Epstein got to high level Chinese officials, if any.

Maxwell and Epstein's friendship with Clinton dates back to at least 1993 when they attended a reception at the White House where they shook hands with him while he was President.

Ted Waitt, a billionaire who ran Gateway Computers, joined Clinton, Epstein and Maxwell on their 2005 trip. Maxwell would go on to date Waitt for some years and he would become her first serious boyfriend after Epstein

Clinton is seen visiting the Taj Mahal in 2003. 'Now, records I've seen recently show that in 2003, Ghislaine visited the Taj Mahal with Bill Clinton and a group of around 20 others, Ward says.' This trip has not previously been reported. Jeffrey wasn't on it. And that was key in cementing Ghislaine's rise as a VIP in her own right in Clinton World, according to sources close to Bill Clinton'

The event was for the White House Historical Association and came after Epstein donated $10,000 to help with refurbishments.

According to journalists Alana Goodman and Daniel Halper, who wrote a book about Epstein called 'A Convenient Death: The Mysterious Demise of Jeffrey Epstein', Maxwell was actually the reason why Clinton was associating with the pedophile.

Maxwell is currently awaiting a November trial for allegedly procuring and trafficking underage girls for Epstein, charges she denies

The book claimed that Clinton and Maxwell were having an affair and it was her he was interested in, rather than Epstein's young and underage girls.

Clinton has denied this but 'A Convenient Death' claimed that Clinton visited Maxwell's $11m townhouse in Manhattan multiple times.

The pair were spotted together dining at the upscale restaurant Nello on Madison Avenue, according to a 2002 New York magazine article.

When Clinton went to an education charity gala in late 2001 Maxwell was reportedly his date - his wife Hillary did not attend.

Even Epstein's 2007 plea deal under which he served 15 months in prison for having sex with underage girls did not end the friendship between the Clintons and Maxwell.

In July 2010 Maxwell was among the guests to attend Chelsea Clinton's wedding at the former Astor estate in Rhinebeck, New York.

Clinton's former close aide Doug Band has told Vanity Fair that Maxwell and Chelsea had been close for some time because 'Ghislaine had access to yachts and nice homes' and 'Chelsea needed that'.

In October 2011 Band tried to bar Maxwell from any Clinton events but he found that Clinton himself was resistant.

Band said: 'I knew in telling everyone to stop including Ghislaine that Chelsea and her father would be very angry.

'It made it harder for them to justify being close to her'.

Among the other claims in 'Chasing Ghislaine' is that during the early 1990s Maxwell had an 'almost a manic relationship' with being 'naughty'.

According to Ward she 'talked about sex in all sorts of inappropriate venues - and she behaved scandalously'.

Clinton's former close aide Doug Band (pictured with Maxwell) has told Vanity Fair that Maxwell and Chelsea had been close for some time because 'Ghislaine had access to yachts and nice homes' and 'Chelsea needed that'. In October 2011 Band tried to bar Maxwell from any Clinton events but he found that Clinton himself was resistant

Journalist Ed Epstein - no relation to Jeffrey - saw this firsthand at a wedding in 1991 at Mar-a-Lago, Donald Trump's private club in Florida.

Edward Epstein says: 'She didn't show up during dinner. She showed up for dessert, just as we're finishing dessert, she showed up and of course, she needed an excuse.

'And she said, 'look', to the whole table, not to me, she announced, she said: 'You know, I was just having the greatest sex of my life and I've never had such great sex, so please forgive me'. And everyone laughed'.

Ward claims that during another incident in New York around the same time, a friend told her he had seen Maxwell 'mid-dinner party, leap up from the table and push the movie star Hugh Grant to the floor to give him a massage'.

Ward says: 'It seemed amusing, a bit outrageous maybe; but her friends told me that they began to wonder if Ghislaine was over-compensating; overcompensating for a private suffering that possibly had to do with rejection by Jeffrey'.

A spokesman for Clinton did not respond to a request for comment.

Nobody for Grant replied when asked to comment and neither did a spokesman for Burkle.

Chasing Ghislaine is available from Thursday on Audible Originals.
ELAINE WELTWORTH (EW): Hold on. What exactly are we doing right now? Help me understand.

They asked me to ask that question. I said, no I'm not going to ask that question.

I said, wait, what's the intention of this conversation? Because this could go left so fast.

They go, 'let me call you back.' I said to them, this is going to be a train wreck.

Oh look at this sweetheart, you can tell. Sharon I am just so sorry that that went the way that it went.

SHARON OSBOURNE (SO): Do you know what it is though, when you have to sit there and defend yourself? It makes you look guilty because you can't get out of it.

It's like Jack always says, it's like calling somebody a pedophile, you can't deny it. What do you say?

JACK OSBOURNE (JO): It's like how do you....'come look at my web browser, I'm not a pedophile,' like, you know?

EW: I don't think... we...we all agree, when you left we were like, there's no way that we should just [drowned out by ringtone] in that conversation without having a [garbled] altogether.

I thoughtI thought - I was told 'Sharon wants to comment on Piers', I go, 'great!' They go, 'OK, is there anything you wanna say?' I was like, no. Not at all.'

SO: As I was driving in this morning, they said do you want to comment on Piers? I said sure I will. Sure.

Four minutes. Four minutes before I went out, they called me and said, 'you know, some might not agree with your opinion, is that alright for them to air?'

I said of course it is. We talk whatever they feel. You know, we'll discuss it.

I never thought it was gonna be...that. Because .... whatever you say you just look guilty. And now everybody's gonna have that little seed of doubt: 'well you know, maybe she's a bit racist.'

EW: 'It's so f**ked up.

SO: These people here, that run this, have no ethics. They don't care. They just want numbers, numbers, numbers.

EW: Did you speak to them? Did you get anyone on the phone yet?

SO: Nobody's here. Nobody's here, the building ... the offices are empty.

EW: I just want you to know, Sharon. Sheryl loves you and respects you so much and had your back behind the scenes. She was not trying to attack you.

But I also understand when you had night long of trolls f**king attacking you online, that puts you in a position where you have to defend yourself. You feel like you have to defend yourself.

And I know you're upset. I know it was terrible, but I just hope that once this blows over, that you know Sheryl is your friend. She really is your friend.

She doesn't think you're racist. I don't think you're racist. No one who knows you would ever say that or think that.

SO: But why couldn't she have said: 'I've known you for 11 years, I know you are not racist' instead of, 'I don't think you are.' No, I know you're not.

There's a huge difference. A f**king night and day difference to know.

I've gone to Sheryl, I've said, 'educate me. I need to know about your heritage. I need to know things.'

She would tell me to get this book and that book and whatever, and she would help me out with things that I didn't quite understand.

When that came, I was like...it was like somebody punched me in the face.

EW: I don't know if you saw but [showrunner] ran up to me before we got on air and she goes I'm so sorry ...[drowned out by phone ringing].enough time

Then I go, 'we shouldn't be talking about this!'

SO: You said that?

EW: Yeah. That's why I sat there silent thinking... I thought, 'okay, Sharon wants to say something. Let her say the thing and then we'll move on to Selena f**king Gomez.

They literally made her ask that question. And I thought that she was setting it up in way so that you knew - I assumed that you guys had had a pre-conversation so that you were on the same page.

SO: No! No! No! I'm running out. Just as I'm running out - I always go for a wee, four- five minutes before.

Phone rings: 'How do you feel about not everybody agreeing with you.'

Agreeing with me? Well fine, they can ask me whatever they want. I'm fine.

But that's like....it's not like 'they're gonna accuse you of being a racist.'

EW: Nobody, nobody was even discussing disagreeing with you. At least from me, I can tell you straightforward. They said: 'do you have anything to say?'

I go, 'no. If Sharon wants to comment, Sharon should comment and then we move on to the next topic.

I have enough s**t going on in my own personal life. To be honest, Sharon, I didn't even read the tweets.

I don't even what people said to you. I only know because people texted me a screenshot and I go, 'okay. okay.' I literally feel nothing.

But here's the one thing - and maybe we talk about this more another day - but the thing I hope you're aware of, because you said in that room you saw something in her eye, you felt like she was coming at you like a journalist.

Here's the thing that I just want you to just know: Sheryl and I are held to a different standard by black people and people of color out there who expect us to say something about every racist anything... and it puts us in such a f**ked up position.

That even if we don't have the information, if we don't even really care, if we don't really wanna engage, it feels like there's a spotlight on us, you know?

And ... I think that Sheryl was trying to navigate that line, you know what I mean, where she was like, 'this is my friend.' I know you're not racist.

And I hear you though, I will take that to heart. You are right, you wanted to hear 'you are not a racist, Sharon.' We know that.

MAKEUP ARTIST: I actually just explained that to her right now.

EW: Yeah. I think she thinks she said that but she said, 'I don't think you're racist.' And I think she meant the same thing.

SO: 'I know' and 'I don't think'...is like this far away.

[chatter]

EW: And really, that's an enlightening moment for me to hear you say that. I wanna apologize because I don't know what I said, maybe I didn't say 'I know you're not'.

I might have said 'I think', but I need you to know I f**ing know you're not.

SO: I know that!

EW: I f**king know you're not!

SO: I know that. Now I feel the big picture. I know what happened. I know what happened.

MAKEUP ARTIST: She just told me she got a call at 4 in the morning. It just went f**ing haywire.

SO: No, they set me up. CBS set me up. And they don't care because they just want ratings. They don't care. They don't care that I will now have to go around and people think I'm racist. They don't give a s**t. They just want ratings. That's all.

EW: And that's the part that's inhumane. I was like, don't f**king make us talk about Selena Gomez after this. This is inhumane.

SO: You said that. You did.

MAKEUP ARTIST: Yeah. I heard you say that. I agree 100 on that. How do you transition?

EW: Yeah we're not actors. You don't pay me to be a f**king Oscar-winning actress. No.

MAKEUP ARTIST: That's right. Yeah you did say that.

EW: No. It felt like we were all set up - particularly you - but I also felt set up because I was like sitting there and Sheryl goes, 'what would you like to say?'

I'm like...what the f**k? I don't have nothing to say. Why are we having this conversation right now?

MAKEUP ARTIST: But even that second sectors.. I was like change topics! Just change it. Don't even ask ... It was just a lot.

EW: It was so much. And it's like - I'm not even talking to you now, Sharon. I'm not talking ... it's like America.

Black America, White America, Racist America, it's like they're like they're all watching us and there's this pressure to demonstrate how to talk about this stuff, but we haven't ever been guided on how to f**king do this.

I'm not an D&I [diversity and inclusion] expert. I didn't know I was gonna come on here and be the - I don't know how to do that, actually.

SO: No! Neither do I, I'm just a f**king old woman [background laughter] that has a lot of stories. I don't f**king care if you're an alien. Are you a nice alien? Then come sit down.

I don't give a ... I just don't judge by anything. How can I be a judge of anybody with my heritage? I can't. And it's like, for numbers, for ratings, they have done this.

MAKEUP ARTIST: Well it's your character. This is like who you are as a person and that's so not anything...

JO: But it's CBS offering up one of their own so they don't have to make an apology. CBS didn't wanna have to make it because everyone is so terrified of fanning the flames of the mob that they just went 'alright, let's just f**king serve her up to her own team that way we don't have to say anything. Like 'oh it handled itself.'

EW: That's right. You're right about that. Because for me I was confused.

When somebody texted me this tweet, I looked at it and I was confused, Sharon, because I thought someone was quoting something you said on the show and I go, 'she didn't say that.'

And then I look more carefully and say, oh she tweeted that. And to me, I'm like, that's her platform.

If you say that on your platform and you're dealing with trolls your dealing with controversy, that's your business in your own platform. But why are we addressing things on the show that she didn't say on the show?

On the show, you walk this delicate tight rope where you really supported your friend but you didn't alienate people who were people of color who thought you handled yourself really well on the show when you addressed it. Leave it at that.

MAKEUP ARTIST: It happened. It should've just been a statement and then move on.

EW: Maybe it's like, 'hey Sharon, you wanna comment on it. Comment on your Twitter, let's just leave it there or something.

Or if you really want us to talk about this - thank you. Is my face looking crazy?

[LAUGHTER/CHATTER]

Who knows what I look like right now.
The Federal Aviation Administration has warned Elon Musk's space company SpaceX that its environmental review of a new tower at its Boca Chica launch site in Texas is incomplete and the agency could order SpaceX to take down the tower.

An FAA spokesman said on Wednesday that the agency's environmental review underway of SpaceX's proposed rocket assembly 'integration tower' is 'underway,' and added that 'the company is building the tower at its own risk.'

SpaceX did not respond to a request for comment.

A May 6 letter from the FAA to SpaceX seen by Reuters said recent construction activity on one of the two proposed towers 'may complicate the ongoing environmental review process for the Starship/Super Heavy Launch Vehicle Program.'

The Federal Aviation Administration has warned Elon Musk's space company SpaceX that its environmental review of a new tower at its Boca Chica launch site in Texas is incomplete and the agency could order SpaceX to take down the tower

The FAA letter said the tower could be as high as 480 feet.

Based on the environmental review, the FAA could order SpaceX to take down the tower.

'It is possible that changes would have to be made at the launch site, including to the integration towers to mitigate significant impacts,' the May 6 letter said, adding the FAA learned of the tower's construction 'based on publicly available video footage.'

SpaceX did not respond to a request for comment but Musk has repeatedly criticized the FAA and the US regulatory system.

SpaceX told the FAA in May that it did not believe the review was necessary because it only intends to use the 'integration tower for production, research, and development purposes and not for FAA-licensed or -permitted launches,' the FAA said.

But the agency said description in documents 'indicates otherwise.'

The FAA and Elon Musk have clashed on several occasions. Musk is seen above in Wilmington, Delaware on Tuesday

A May 6 letter from the FAA to SpaceX seen by Reuters said recent construction activity on one of the two proposed towers 'may complicate the ongoing environmental review process for the Starship/Super Heavy Launch Vehicle Program.'

The FAA cited a SpaceX document that the towers would be used to integrate the Starship/Super Heavy launch vehicle.

'Super Heavy would be mated to the launch mount, followed by Starship mated to Super Heavy,' the FAA letter said quoting SpaceX's May 5 submission.

The FAA and Musk have clashed on several occasions.

On June 29, Musk lamented the delay of the launch of Transporter-2 mission in Florida.

He tweeted 'an aircraft entered the "keep out zone," which is unreasonably gigantic.

'There is simply no way that humanity can become a spacefaring civilization without major regulatory reform.'

Earlier this year, the FAA said SpaceX's December launch of Starship SN8 violated its license requirements.

Effective March 12, the FAA began requiring an agency safety inspector at all SpaceX launches to 'ensure compliance with federal regulations to protect public safety.'

FAA Administrator Steve Dickson spoke with Musk on March 12 for 30 minutes to stress 'the FAA's role in protecting public safety by ensuring regulatory compliance.

'He made it clear that the FAA expected SpaceX to develop and foster a robust safety culture that stresses adherence to FAA rules,' the agency said in April.
A Massachusetts police chief said officers used a sonic boom to disable Rise of the Moors suspects, helping authorities apprehend 11 armed men on Interstate 95 during an hours-long standoff on July 3.

The group of armed individuals, who identify as Moorish Americans and collectively as Rise of the Moors, were refueling gas tanks at 1.30am with their own fuel and told law enforcement that they were traveling from Rhode Island to Maine for 'training.'

When police asked them to drop their weapons, they refused, resulting in an 11-hour stand-off.

Wakefield Police Chief Steven Skory told a local town council meeting that officers deployed a high-pitch alarm is known as an LRAD, which Skory describes as an 'audible alarm that basically disables someone temporarily' during the stand-off, finally bringing it to an end.

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Wakefield Police Chief Steven Skory told a local town council meeting that officers deployed a high pitch alarm is known as an LRAD, which Skory describes as an 'audible alarm that basically disables someone temporarily' during the stand-off, finally bringing it to an end

Jahmal Latimer also known as 'Talib Abdulla Bey' cofounded the militia group which claims to be a non-profit educational group based out of Rhode Island. He identifies himself on the group webpage as the chief of the 'Rhode Island State Republic and Providence Plantations'

According to Skory, when the trooper asked members of the group to produce licenses for the firearms, members of the group indicated they weren't licensed or didn't have copies of licenses on them.

They then took up the 'sovereign attitude that they did not have to adhere by our laws,' Skory said.

Bodycam footage taken by a cop at the scene shows the interaction, which led up to the standoff. It begins with a cop in mid-conversation with the group's purported leader Jamhal Tavon Sanders Latimer, 29, also known as Jamhal Talib Abdullah Bey.

The cop asks So none of you guys have a license on you? and Latimer says no. They again say no when asked if they have any forms of identification.

Asked what they were planning, Latimer says, I have private land in Maine so were going up to do some training there.

Latimer agrees to give him personal information and the cop asks for his name, birthday and Social Security number.

I dont have a social, he says and the cop asks, Were you born in the United States?

Theres a long pause after that as Latimer writes his information down for the cop.

Bodycam footage shows when a Massachusetts State Police trooper saw two cars with their hazard lights on parked on the shoulder of Interstate-95, near the town of Wakefield, around 1:30 a.m. The group of heavily armed men were refilling gas tanks with their own fuel and told law enforcement that they were headed to Maine for 'training'

Latimer wrote down his contact information for the cop after explaining that he has no driver's license, no social security number and no license to carry his firearms

After refusing to comply with an order to drop their weapons, several men took off into a nearby woodland area and prompted the 11-hour long standoff

Im just trying to see what the situation here is. You are on the highway, you guys got AR-15s?

Yeah.

The cop goes to their next car and Latimer follows him and says, I want to make sure hes safe. Im fine, I was in the Marine Corps.

The cop lets him follow and asks the driver of the next car for his license and registration, which he says he doesnt have.

Latimer continues to hover over him and he says, If you dont mind, can you just stand over there. I just dont want people getting freaked out on the road.

The cop asks Latimer to explain again why they are on the side of the road and he says that their plan is to travel from Rhode Island to Maine without making any unnecessary stops. They have cans of fuel in their truck to refill without having to stop at any gas stations.

There are laws specifying that as long as youre not making any unnecessary stops through the state, you could travel with your arms, he says.

The cop, who appears increasingly frustrated, asks about having a license to carry, to which he says, In the state of Rhode Island, youre not required to have a license to have a rifle. So as long as Im not required to have it in the state Im from, Im allowed to pass through as long as Im not making any unnecessary stops.

After Latimers explanation, the cop adds, the only issue here is that he doesnt have a license to drive. Does anyone here have a license to drive?

I have a few guys that have it, but I told them not to bring anything that could identify us because of the nature of what were trying to do, Latimer says.

They then agree to switch drivers to someone who has a license and the footage ends there.

Earlier footage shows what happened minutes later when the cop says that a highway patrol supervisor will look the groups information and follow up with them. He adds, In the meantime, until then, Im gonna have to ask you all to put your guns down.

Latimer says, Oh no, were not gonna do that.

Im not taking your guns away from you, the cop says.

If I told you to tell your men to put their guns down, would you do it? Absolutely not.

The cop says, Now youre making this a difficult situation.

Latimer continues, Youre being aggressive. I have the paperwork for the state laws notifying that we could make a peaceful journey to our destination without making unnecessary stops, youre stopping us, were trying to continue to make our journey to our final destination to our private land where we can train legally, which is in the second amendment, the right to a well-regulated militia and that right shall not be infringed so for you to ask me and my men to put down our arms, youre infringing on our second amendment rights.

Right now, the two drivers here could be arrested for not having a drivers license well operating out of state . . . just for our safety, weve got to put the guns down.

For our safety, we cant put our guns down, he says.

The footage ends before several of the men fled the scene into the woods nearby, after which the Massachusetts State Police issued an urgent shelter-in-place warning for residents Wakefield and Reading, and urged them to lock their doors. They added that the group was 'dangerous' and does 'not recognize US laws'.

According to the group's website, Rise of the Moors is based in Pawtucket, Rhode Island and is one of 25 active anti-governmental sovereign-citizen groups identified by the Southern Poverty Law Center in 2020.

While the group's Facebook page has 1,100 followers and a YouTube channel with 17,000 subscribers, the total number of members is unknown.

Bodycam footage taken by a cop at the scene shows what led up to the standoff.

It begins with a cop pointing a flashlight at the cars as the group's purported leader Jamhal Tavon Sanders Latimer, 29, also known as Jamhal Talib Abdullah Bey, approaches him.

Militia leader Jamhal Tavon Sanders Latimer, 29, also known as Jamhal Talib Abdullah Bey, told the judge: 'I don't understand how these charges can be brought against me'

Jamhal Talib Abdullah Bey (pictured in the center wearing a turban) poses with fellow members of the Rise of the Moors group in January 2021

The cop questions what the group are doing and Latimer, a former U.S. Marine, says, 'We're a local militia from Rhode Island. We're going to Maine. We weren't going to be make unnecessary stops. We have fuel in our truck so we can gas up here so that way we could just keep going through.'

The cop asks if they have their licenses and they all say 'No, we don't have licenses.' They again say no when asked if they have any forms of identification.

Asked what they were planning, Latimer says, 'I have private land in Maine so we're going up to do some training there.'

What is a LRAD and how does it work? Long Range Acoustic Device, (LRAD) is a high-pitched alarm, similar to a car alarm, that can emit a 150-decibel beam of sound. It has become increasingly as a crowd-control device in the United States and around the world. It first made headlines in 2009, when police used the device to repel antiglobalization demonstrators protesting the G20 summit in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The device can also be used to transmit spoken messages across long distance. It was developed after the 2000 attack on the 'USS Cole,' a U.S. Navy vessel, in Yemen. Navy crewman had no way of communicating with the passengers or determining their intent, while suicide bombers were able to approach the vessel in a small boat. According to Robert Putnam, the head of investor and media relations for the LRAD Corporation in San Diego, California, the LRAD is now frequently used at sea and to transmit a targeted message over a large distance. 'With our largest devices we're able to reach up to 3.5 kilometers away, over land, water, and almost any type of environment or condition,' Putnam says.' Advertisement

Latimer agrees to give him personal information and the cop asks for his name, birthday and social security number.

'I don't have a social,' he says and the cop asks, 'Were you born in the United States?'

Skory told the council that the trooper informed the men, who were dressed in tactical gear and armed with long rifles and handguns, they would likely be arrested.

Eight individuals then retreated into the woods and the regional SWAT team was called in, Skory said.

Two suspects returned from the woods and were arrested and the perimeter was secured.

When the additional six suspects returned from the woods, police attempted to take them into custody, Skory said.

In addition to Latimer, those arrested were Robert Rodriguez, 21, Wilfredo Hernandez, 23, Alban El Curraugh, 27, Aaron Lamont Johnson, 29, Quinn Cumberlander, 40, Lamar Dow, 34, and Conrad Pierre, 29, of Baldwin, New York.

Following the arrests, police then coordinated with the town's Department of Public Works to position dump trucks complete with plows on the highway to discourage suspects from attempting to flee, Skory told the council.

There were no injuries to any officers or suspects, he added.

Some of the men were arraigned Tuesday and face several charges, including unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition and the use of body armor in commission of a crime, in connection with the July 3 standoff.

At the arraignment, Latimer told the judge: 'I don't understand how these charges can be brought against me.'

A month before his arrest, Latimer was seen bragging about his firearm arsenal on YouTube.

Latimer and the Rise of the Moors have a large social media presence, with more than 16,000 subscribers to the group's YouTube channel, in which the leader posts videos showing off firearms and discussing 'the constitution.'

In June, a New Jersey homeowner got more than she bargained for when a group of Rise of the Moors men broke into her newly-purchased home and claimed it as their 'ancestral home'.

In a TikTok video that has garnered over 325,000 views, Shanetta Little, 37, or @regblackgrl, describes her bizarre encounter with the extremist group in a 49-part 'story time' explanation which ended with a SWAT team being called in.

During a Town Council meeting, Wakefield Police Chief Steven Skory said officers used a sonic boom to disable Rise of the Moors suspects, helping authorities apprehend 11 armed men on Interstate 95 during an hours -long standoff on July 3

In the video, Little explains the men broke into her Newark home while she wasn't there on June 18, sawed off the locks, and changed them.

She noticed the break-in when she arrived at her home one afternoon to have the gas lines fixed and discovered her keys didn't work.

The Rise of The Moors, which flies the Moroccan flag, is centered on the belief that its followers are the 'aboriginal people' of the US and takes its teachings partly from a religious sect known as the Moorish Science Temple.
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A revealing graph shows how Sydney went into Covid-19 lockdown much earlier in its current outbreak than Melbourne did during its horror second wave last year.

The eastern suburbs of Australia's biggest city were locked down on the ninth day of the outbreak on June 26 when there were just 64 cases. The lockdown was extended to the whole city just two days later.

In contrast, Melbourne locked down its 10 worst-affected postcodes on day 35 of last year's outbreak on July 1, when there were already 446 cases in the community.

Melbourne locked down its 10 worst-affected postcodes on day 35 of its 2020 outbreak on July 1, when there were already 446 cases in the community. Sydney's recent outbreak is in blue and Melbourne's second wave is in red

The lockdown was extended to the whole city on day 43 out the outbreak on July 9, when there were 1,193 local cases recorded in total.

On day 67 of the outbreak on August 2, restrictions were tightened further with an 8pm curfew and a one-hour exercise limit after Victoria's case total hit 8,994.

But by this time there was already widespread transmission around the city, which meant it took 112 days from July to October to eliminate the virus.

Melbourne's second wave killed 910 people while Sydney's latest outbreak has led to two deaths of people in their 70s and 90s.

Asked if Premier Gladys Berejiklian was too late to lock down Sydney, Prime Minister Scott Morrison compared the two outbreaks.

'There's been a lot learnt, I think, between that second wave lockdown in Victoria and this most recent one in Sydney,' he told ABC radio.

'They responded to the information they had and they took that advice and they took the best decisions they had on that advice.'

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the drop in locally-acquired infections to 65 - down from 97 new cases on Wednesday - was a promising sign authorities may be turning the tide on the outbreak

It comes after the Burnet Institute released modelling showing Sydney's current restrictions would not eliminate Covid for three months and harsher measures like Victoria's stage-four restrictions are needed.

Burnet's Director and CEO, Professor Brendan Crabb AC said there was benefit in 'going hard, going fast' in any pandemic response.

'Introducing more stringent measures like Victoria's Stage 4-style restrictions would likely bring the outbreak under control and reduce the length of lockdown,' Professor Crabb said.

Over the past three days, the number of people infectious in the community in Sydney has remained relatively high at 33, 24 and 28, raising fears that current settings are not snuffing out the virus.

Ms Berejiklian said she was following the advice of Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant but would consider a harder lockdown.

'If we ever needed to change the settings or do more, or take difficult decisions, we would,' she said.

The premier said there was no evidence of transmission during exercise, meaning limits on outdoor activity may not help.

World Health Organisation advisor Professor Mary-Louise McLaws said it would take 'at least a month' to get Covid numbers down and even longer to eliminate community transmission completely.

Police officers are pictured on horseback in Sydney's Centennial Park on Thursday morning as 65 new Covid cases were recorded

Two pedestrians in hi-vis jackets are pictured walking along the promenade at Bondi Beach in Sydney's eastern suburbs

'You expect cases, sadly, in family clusters, but the ones outside isolation are the ones that are telling you there's a lot of circulating virus,' she told Weekend Today.

'My projections are that it's going to take at least a month to get those down.'

NSW recorded 65 local cases overnight - and 28 of them were out in the community for the entire time they were infectious.

Ms Berejiklian said the drop in locally-acquired infections - down from 97 new cases on Wednesday - was a promising sign authorities may be turning the tide on the state's highly-contagious outbreak of the Delta variant.

There are now 73 patients across the state in hospital suffering from Covid-19 (up two from Wednesday) and 19 in intensive care (down one from Wednesday).

There are now five Covid-19 patients state-wide - compared to four on Wednesday - who need a ventilator to breathe.

Of the 65 new cases recorded in the 24 hours to 8pm on Wednesday night, 46 were detected in south-west Sydney and eight were found in the city's south-east.

Sydney is nearing the end of a third week of a strict stay-at-home lockdown, which was on Wednesday extended until at least July 30 to stem the spread of the virus.

Health workers speak to members of the public at a pop-up Covid-19 testing clinic at the Fairfield Showgrounds in Sydney on Wednesday
Australia will likely have to wait until at least 2023 before it can begin producing mRNA vaccines like Pfizer and Moderna.

At present the AstraZeneca vaccine is largely not recommended for residents aged under 60 unless they are in Covid outbreak regions and speak to their GPs, and the Pfizer jab is advised for most Australians.

But there are fears current Australian investment in research and infrastructure is way behind what is needed to attract a pharmaceutical giant here to make the preferred vaccine.

Australia's shortage of the preferred Pfizer vaccine has eased for now, but there are major concerns about our ability to attract a pharmaceutical giant here to help produce millions of doses of locally-made mRNA vaccine such as Moderna or Pfizer

Because the AstraZeneca vaccine is largely not recommended for people aged under 60, the Pfizer jab is advised for most Australians - but there have been major shortages

Comparing vaccines AstraZeneca (Oxford University) Countries using it: Australia, UK, Germany, South Korea, Philippines, Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico Recommended ages: over 60 (younger if in outbreak areas) Type: Viral vector Doses: 2, 4-12 weeks apart (timing of second dose depends on whether you are in an outbreak area). Effectiveness: 70-90% Side effects: fatigue, pain headaches, very rare instances of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (serious blood clots). Manufacture: Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty) Countries using it: Australia, UK, US, Canada, Singapore, Germany, France, Italy and much of Europe Type: messenger RNA vaccine Doses: 2, 21 days apart Effectiveness: ranges from 70-95% depending setting of study. Side effects: fatigue, pain headaches, very rare instances of heart inflammation (myocarditis). Moderna Countries using it: Japan, Canada, UK, US, Philippines, much of Europe Type: mRNA Doses: 2, 28 days apart Effectiveness: Up to 95% depending on setting of study. Side effects: fatigue, pain headaches, very rare instances of heart inflammation (myocarditis). Advertisement

Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are mRNA vaccines, which are created using newer technology than AstraZeneca, which is made using Coronavirus DNA.

The mRNA vaccines are widely accepted to provide slightly better protection from severe and moderate Covid and haven't been associated with blot clots, as AstraZeneca has.

But Australia's mRNA jabs - Pfizer - have come from Europe so far.

While there was initially a shortage this was improved with a deal reached on July 8 to bring forward delivery of millions more Pfizer jabs to Australia.

The deal means Australia will receive at least 4.5million Pfizer doses in August.

But the total number delivered to Australia in 2021 will remain at 40million, as agreed in April last year. Pfizer is simply sending the shipments earlier.

The federal government is due to receive several commercial bids this Friday to start making an mRNA here but it is understood that it will rely heavily on the involvement of American company Moderna.

A pharmaceutical giant, like Moderna or BioNTech, will need to partner with an Australian manufacturer to produce the vaccines here.

The federal government is in talks with Moderna, after announcing a $1.5billion local manufacturing strategy last October.

But it is understood that the Australian government's research and development funding budget is seen as 'wildly insufficient' at present, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.

Melbourne company CSL, which is already producing a million doses of AstraZeneca a week locally, is the frontrunner for such a partnership and has expressed interest in making an mRNA vaccine.

But CSL chief Paul Perreault told The Australian Financial Review it could take between three and five years to build the necessary infrastructure.

China, Singapore and South Korea made agreements in May for domestic production of mRNA vaccines, meaning Australia is already months behind its neighbours.

Victorian Acting Premier James Merlino (right) tours the Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MIPS) in Melbourne in June. MIPS is producing mRNA vaccines for trial

The Pfizer shortage was improved with a deal reached on July 8 to bring forward delivery of millions more Pfizer jabs to Australia

Singapore's deal with BioNTech will deliver 'several hundred million' doses in 2023 - an indication of how long Australia would have to wait for locally-made mRNA doses to arrive.

South Korea's deal was with Moderna.

Industry minister Christian Porter has also indicated it could take up to 18 months to deliver the locally-made doses to Australians.

University of Queensland biotechnology professor Trent Munro said although Australia has a good enough reputation to produce and sell vaccines to our region, at present we cannot support our own needs.

'We should be doing everything we can to attract the companies that can help,' Professor Munro said.

'Unless we do a deal that involves a very strong strategic relationship with a commercial partner that is already doing mRNA, it won't make much difference.'

Singapore's deal with BioNTech will deliver 'several hundred million' doses in 2023 - an indication of how long Australia would have to wait for locally-made mRNA doses to arrive. Singapore eased restriction in June as local community COVID-19 cases remained under control

It is understood Australia lacks investment in research and development into vaccine technology at present
Masks are again compulsory indoors in Victoria, as the state's number of new COVID-19 infections continues to grow.

From Thursday, anyone aged over 12 will be required to wear a mask in all indoor settings, including schools and workplaces, unless an exception applies.

Masks must also be worn outdoors when social distancing isn't possible.

Masks are again compulsory in Victoria in all indoor settings (Melbourne CBD pictured), including schools and workplaces and outdoors when social distancing isn't possible

AAP understands discussions are also underway to reimpose other restrictions such as caps on crowd limits and visitors permitted in homes, though a decision is yet to be made.

It comes as 11 new cases of COVID-19 emerged in Melbourne's north and west on Wednesday from two separate outbreaks, both of which stem from NSW.

Ten of the cases will be included in Thursday's daily figures.

A teacher from Bacchus Marsh primary school is among the new cases, having reportedly attended an AFL match between Carlton and Geelong at the MCG on Saturday with an infected friend who lives at the locked-down Ariele Apartments in Maribyrnong.

Melbourne had 11 new cases on Wednesday, and the outbreaks stem from NSW, prompting the Victorian government to reintroduce masks (pictured)

The friend, aged in his 60s, is one of four residents of the apartment to test positive on Wednesday.

He also infected his parents, aged 89 and 90, who live in Craigieburn.

Bacchus Marsh Grammar has confirmed the infected teacher attended a staff day on Monday but had no contact with students on Tuesday or Wednesday.

Staff have been told to self-isolate and get tested, while the school's Woodlea and Maddingley campuses will be closed for the rest of the week.

Barwon Heads Primary School near Geelong has also been closed until further notice after a case of coronavirus was reported.

Another new case is a man in his 30s who attended Coles Craigieburn at the same time as a member of a family who recently returned from Sydney infected with COVID-19.

The family of four from Melbourne's northwest were required to self-isolate at home as red zone permit arrivals, but one visited the Coles and a Metro petrol station in Broadmeadows.

All have now tested positive, with the fourth infection confirmed on Wednesday.

The Ariele Apartments outbreak is linked to a NSW removalist crew who did a pick up at the complex on July 8 while infectious, forcing 200 residents into 14 days of lockdown.

All cases are linked the NSW, as three removalists spread the diseases in Ariele Apartments, and a member of a family who required to self-isolate attended a supermarket in Broadmeadows

COVID-19 Commander Jeroen Weimar said the three removalists, two of whom have tested positive, weren't wearing masks, in a breach of their worker's permit conditions.

More than 40 exposure sites have been listed across the state, with a range of DFO Uni Hill stores in Bundoora and an Epping medical centre added to the list late on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, two unexpected detections of COVID-19 viral fragments have been found in wastewater samples from Geelong catchments in recent days.

Residents of 11 Geelong suburbs have been urged to keep an eye out for symptoms and get tested if they develop.
Tragedy has divided the internet as Staffy lovers jumped to defence of the breed

Dog expert says kids under 14 should never be allowed near beloved family pets

It has renewed calls to ban Staffies in Australia, following a series of attacks

The family pet mauled the five-week-old in the early hours of Sunday morning

Dog lovers have leapt to the defence of a 'killer' breed after a pet Staffy mauled a five-week-old baby boy to death as his parents slept.

The six-year-old American Staffordshire terrier killed the baby in his home in Kariong, on the NSW Central Coast, in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Paramedics arrived at the scene about 2.18am, but the infant could not be revived. The family pet was euthanised several days later.

Residents claimed American Staffies have been responsible for a spate of viscous attacks in the area.

The horrific tragedy has reignited debate about vicious breeds, with some experts warning such powerful dogs should never be within three metres of a child.

The baby's death has also divided the internet, with Staffy lovers describing the dogs as 'wonderful family pets' and placing the blame on the owners instead.

Pictured: A distraught man outside a home where a newborn baby boy was mauled to death by a Staffy

'So sick of breed shaming when it comes to Staffies,' one owner wrote on Facebook.

'We have a staff and all he ever wants is to love and be loved. Staffies are beautiful dogs and if raised right, make for the best companions. It all comes down to owners not raising dog right.'

Another owner added: 'It's not the breed it's how they are raised, I have a American Staffy and she is so gentle and a big sook wouldn't hurt a fly.'

A third wrote: 'We've had three while the kids were growing up and they had the most beautiful nature. You give them love and respect and they will give it back unconditionally.'

Others put the onus on the dog owners.

'Ban people who are not capable of looking after their pets,' one wrote.

Another added: 'With dog ownership comes responsibility the tragedy could have been avoided if owners knew their dog.'

The death renewed calls to ban staffys from Australia. Dog expert says some pets need more training (stock image of a staffy)

There were some calls for the breed to be banned.

'Ban them. They're trouble makers,' one wrote.

'Poor baby. Ban the breed, imprison the owners,' wrote another.

Canine experts said the dog involved in Sunday's tragedy should never have been near the baby it 'viewed as prey'.

However, they insisted specific dog breeds, like Staffies, were not inherently dangerous, instead saying individual dogs were 'unstable' and should be put down.

This is despite some types of dogs being bred to hunt and kill, and being overrepresented in fatal attacks - prompting calls to ban them.

Pictured: First responders at a home on the Central Coast after the five-week-old boy was killed. Canine experts warned dogs should never be left with small children

Four weeks before the infant was mauled, the same dog dragged a spaniel named Arrow under the backyard fence and viciously killed him.

The local council told the owners to take their pet for a temperament assessment. But a month later, the little boy was dead.

Dog behavioural expert Nathan McCredie explained that to a dog, such a small child was not thought of as a human, but instead a catch.

'That dog would have had no idea the boy was a human - babies are a different size, they smell different, they scream and squeal,' he told Daily Mail Australia.

'To the Staffy, it looks like prey.'

Mr McCredie, who runs canine training service Dog Gone Mad, said any such animal - especially one with a violent history - should never have been allowed in the same room as the baby.

'I wouldn't have it around my kids. Letting it loose around kids while unsupervised - that scares the hell out of me,' the father-of-two said.

Pictured: A dog after he was attacked by a staffy on the street. Half his ear was sliced off

Pictured: The sad-looking dog after a staffy came along and attacked him - slicing off half his ear

'I don't have dogs within a three metre radius of kids under the age of 14, and if I do, it's because I invited the dog in and I can control it.'

Mr McCredie said 80 to 90 per cent of dog bites are the animal's way of saying they are in pain, and children under the age of 14 often don't know when they are inflicting pain or discomfort on an animal.

If the dog decides to strike, kids are smaller and significantly less powerful than a large and muscly dog, like an American Staffordshire terrier, and can't escape the its jaws.

Residents in the region of the Jeff's Close, Kariong, home where the baby died claim American staffies are responsible for a spate of viscous attacks.

Central Coast local Elly told Daily Mail Australia her friend was walking her 12-year-old dog Buddy, when two roaming staffies appeared.

'My friend tried to protect him but he was dragged out of her arms and ripped to pieces in front of her,' she said.

'She was badly injured, hospitalised and now has scars for life  scars visible on her arms which remind her every day of the hideous event, and she is now mentally scarred forever from witnessing a horror she can never un-see.'

In another horrific attack, a dog of the same breed attacked a man's pet and sliced his ear off.

Pictured: Dog behavioural expert Nathan McCredie, who is the owner of canine training service Dog Gone Mad. He warned against leaving dogs in the company of children

When asked why some dogs would behave that way, Mr McCredie said some dogs were just aggressive and couldn't be helped.

'I see it with all breeds. Some dogs are just unstable and should be put to sleep. I have no doubt that staffy was unstable,' he said.

Another dog expert, Nathan Williams from training company Dog Behavioural Specialist, told Daily Mail Australia that humans often teach canines to kill by playing games like tug-of-war with them.

'Dogs aren't meant to have toys - they've only been around for 40 to 50 years and we now have more problems than we've ever had before,' he said.

'When dogs use their mouths on something non protein-based, they learn that it's OK to do that with other objects. Tug-of-war is violent and riles the dog up, so we're teaching them that's okay.'

He also said dogs had very sensitive hearing, so when they play with squeaky toys, they get agitated by the sound and use their mouth to stop it squeaking.

That logic could transfer to a cat or a baby, with tragic consequences.

Like Mr McCredie, Mr Williams said the killer dog was probably triggered because the baby was crying - but would not have known it was hurting a human.

Pictured: Nathan Williams, who is the owner of training company Dog Behavioural Specialist

When asked what dog breeds are the most dangerous to children, both experts said all breeds can potentially be dangerous - but staffies were getting a lot of attention because they were such a popular dog.

'German Shepherds used to be really popular and they had bad reputation for biting kids, Dobermans were popular in the '70s and there were lots of reports of those attacking babies and other dogs - now its staffies,' Mr Williams said.

Mr McCredie said tragedies like the one on the Central Coast usually happen because the owners were uneducated about how to care for their pet.

'There is no such thing as an unpredictable dog - it's a lack of education, and people don't know what's safe and what's not,' he said.

He suggested about three months of mandatory training for all dogs and their owners to ensure fatalities like the one this weekend didn't happen again.
New Zealand's leaders are dragging their feet on a reconnection plan with the rest of the world, promising details in a month's time.

Like Australia, New Zealand has followed an elimination strategy to fight COVID-19, which requires hard borders and a rigorous quarantine system.

But unlike Australia, Jacinda Ardern is yet to spell out even a top-line strategy on relaxing those restrictions.

Unlike Australia, Jacinda Ardern is yet to spell out even a top-line strategy on relaxing those hard borders and quarantine restrictions

Earlier this month, Scott Morrison unveiled a high-level four-stage approach to returning Australia to somewhere near pre-COVID normalities.

New Zealand has a goal of vaccinating every consenting adult Kiwi this year, an ambition that outstrips Australia, but is a long way from home.

With 17 per cent of Kiwis with at least one jab, the rollout - using only Pfizer vaccine - depends on a big surge hitting arms from this month.

Under 35s won't be eligible for their vaccinations until October.

While Kiwis - with their enviable death toll and very few societal restrictions since last year's harsh 53-day lockdown - are happy to be largely safe during the pandemic, many are casting their eyes towards the return of regular border arrangements.

Ms Ardern is not one of them.

The prime minister is yet to lay out a reopening strategy, saying only in May that New Zealand was in 'phase two' of a plan.

Phase two includes opening the trans-Tasman bubble, and Cook Islands bubble, allowing travellers to move without quarantine, and potentially to Niue.

New Zealand Prime Minister said in early May New Zealand was in 'phase two' of a plan yet has not defined what the strategy is

Quoting Ms Ardern, 'beyond that we are relatively open-minded, and I do anticipate there will be other countries we can explore opportunities with.'

This week, COVID-19 Minister Chris Hipkins was in no mood to discuss further candidates.

'I'm not getting into the reopening conversation,' he said.

'One of our challenges is we just can't get data about what's happening in those countries to really genuinely assess the level of risk.

'Our capability there is growing, it is getting better, but at this point I'm not going to give you a list of who we think are more likely to be heading in the green direction versus those who are heading in the red direction.'

Expectations for further reopenings, or relaxed rules for vaccinated individuals, may need to be lowered.

Ms Ardern has hand-balled the reopening operation to epidemiologist Sir David Skegg and a group of top officials.

'Recently we asked our public health advisory group led by Professor David Skegg to support our next update with a particular focus on requirements for travellers at our borders, we very recently received the first cut of that advice,' she told TVNZ.

'We've asked some additional questions but are preparing to share that advice in a public forum... in roughly four weeks.'

A number of questions around vaccine efficacy will drive how New Zealand will reopen.

'We will be relying heavily on emerging evidence about how effective vaccines are in preventing not just symptoms of the disease, but transmission between vaccinated individuals,' Ms Ardern said, pointing to studies where transmission halved in vaccinated people, already less likely to catch COVID.

Another consideration is 'the question of COVID variants'.

'Pfizer is holding up well, but our reopening plan will need the flexibility to continue highlighting and responding rapidly to countries where variants emerge,' Ms Ardern said.
Australia's Covid-battered tourism industry is set for more years of pain, with some experts predicting the sector won't recover to pre-pandemic levels until 2027.

International border restrictions and the grounding of airline fleets has sent the industry into hibernation, after it has experienced a record year in 2019.

Domestic tourists and international visitors spent $152billion on holidays that year, according to Tourism Research Australia, a 10.3 percent increase on the previous year and the 10th successive year of expenditure growth.

But revenue declined 25 percent last year and is expected to decrease by 44.8 percent in 2020-21.

Travellers walk past an advertisement advising on ways to limit the spread of COVID-19 at the Sydney International Airport, Sydney

Border closures resulting in people visiting Australia from overseas to visit iconic locations such as Bondi Beach fell by 98 per cent in the year to March 2021

Losses in international and domestic tourism industries totalled $82.9bn in the year to March 2021

Australia's slow vaccination rate had been identified as one of the key factors inhibiting the revival of the industry.

'Unfortunately Australia is going in the wrong direction,' Corporate Travel Management founder Jamie Pherous told The Australian, comparing our vaccination rate to those in Europe and the US.

Losses in international and domestic tourism industries totalled $82.9bn to March 2021, with the closure of borders resulting in people visiting Australia for a holiday from overseas falling by 98 per cent.

While a gradual recovery in domestic tourism is allowing some tourism operators to reopen and stay afloat, Tourism Research Australia still expected domestic visitor nights in 2021 to be 25 percent below what it would have been without the Covid pandemic.

IBISWorld industry expert Suzy Oo said revenue in tourism accommodation was not expected to recover to pre-pandemic levels until 2025-26, and not in hospitality until 2026-27.

'Minimal inbound tourism and the slow rollout of Australias Covid-19 vaccine program are jeopardising the path to recovery. Complete recovery (is) out of reach in the short term,' she said.

Grounded Virgin Australia aircraft parked at Brisbane Airport in Brisbane as travel restrictions took effect in April 2020

Empty international check-in terminals are seen at Melbourne Airport in February 2021

Revenues are expected to rise gradually in the industry as Australia's vaccination roll-out gathers pace.

'As the Australian population increasingly gets vaccinated for COVID-19, the Federal Government will become increasingly likely to further ease its international border controls, boosting demand from inbound tourists,' the IBISWorld report into Australian hotels and resorts states.

Adding to the challenge for Australian tourist operators is a lack of workers caused by restrictions on the entry of foreign students and new migrants.

CEO of Queensland Tourism Industry Council Daniel Gschwind told Daily Mail Australia 5,000 people were urgently required to fill hospitality jobs in the state as the industry slowly recovered.

'It's a serious problem,' he said. 'A lot of people migrated out of the industry during Covid, and we lost thousands of people who were on on working holidays visa and skilled migrants.'
A young rich list entrant worth more than $200million says following the advice of school teachers is a recipe for being stuck in a boring job and not reaching your potential.

Fred Schebesta, the co-founder of financial comparison site Finder, ranked 26 on The Australian Financial Review's league table of entrepreneurs aged 40 or younger.

Having turned 40 in March, Mr Schebesta has written a new book, 'Go Live! 10 Principles to Launch a Global Empire'.

The entrepreneur, running a business employing 450 staff in 80 countries, said too many people followed the advice of their teachers and made that their life strategy.

'In school we are taught to be risk-averse, to follow rules and get a job,' he told Daily Mail Australia.

A young rich list entrant worth more than $200million says following the advice of school teachers is a recipe for being stuck in a boring job. Fred Schebesta, the co-founder of financial comparison Finder, ranked 26 on The Australian Financial Review's league table of entrepreneurs aged 40 or younger

Five tips for life success 1. Say 'yes' to a new challenge 2. Push on, don't give up 3. Add an extra 2 per cent effort 4. Thank people for their feedback 5. Celebrate successful people Advertisement

'It's not very entrepreneurial and there is far less support for business owners.

'So it's natural for most people to follow this path and get stuck in jobs that they aren't happy in and avoid taking risks.'

Mr Schebesta and his schoolmate Frank Restuccia started a digital marketing business in 2001 called Freestyle Media.

They later sold that and set up Finder in 2006 which in 2012 evolved into the Finder financial comparison site, with Mr Schebesta's share worth an estimated $214million.

After two decades as an entrepreneur, starting when he was a Bachelor of Finance student at Macquarie University, Mr Schebesta said hesitation was the enemy of success.

Say 'yes'

He is instead an advocated for the 'yes' principle.

'This is all about seizing every opportunity. Saying "yes" to things you normally wouldn't do can be a liberating experience,' he said.

With his 40th birthday looming this year, Mr Schebesta has written a new book, 'Go Live! 10 Principles to Launch a Global Empire'. The entrepreneur, running a business employing 450 staff in 80 countries, said too many people followed the advice of their teachers and made that their life strategy

'It's empowering and the best part is that you never know what you will end up learning, what doors will open or who you might meet that will help you on your journey of success.'

Push on, don't give up

Mr Schebesta said continuing with a difficult task no matter the cost was the key to achieving goals.

'It's about never quitting. It's when you need to push through your mental and physical barriers that are telling you to stop,' he said.

'When things get hard, this is when you need to remind yourself that you can do it, you can get through to the other side and you will always come out stronger from the experience.'

Add an extra 2 per cent effort to everything

Adding just two per cent more effort is the key to exceeding personal expectations.

'I love this rule because it's about honing in on your mastery,' Mr Schebesta said.

After two decades as an entrepreneur, starting when he was a Bachelor of Finance student at Macquarie University, Mr Schebesta said hesitation was the enemy of success. He is instead an advocated for the 'yes' principle

'Learning that little bit more, making something that little bit better, pushing your benchmark higher.

'It lifts the quality in everything you do and your expectations of yourself and your work rise as a result.'

Thank people for their feedback

While criticism is often hard to accept, Mr Schebesta said thanking critics helped him grow psychologically.

'A growth mindset requires you to be ok with rejection and the way I deal with feedback is to thank people,' he said.

'It gives you gratitude for the opportunity to learn from other perspectives and it reminds me that it's not personal.'

While criticism is often hard to accept, Mr Schebesta said thanking critics helped him grow psychologically

Even unsolicited advice that isn't followed is still worthwhile.

'You don't have to take on every piece of feedback you receive but you should be thankful for it,' he said.

Celebrate successful people

Jealousy is a natural instinct when we see other people succeed when we fail.

Instead, Mr Schebesta said celebrating the success of others was a way to learn.

'I used to find this rule hard to do because I compared myself to other people's success and felt down on myself,' he said.

'I have learnt to embrace others' success and it's enabled me to learn more from them.'
Scott Morrison continues to blame Australia's expert medical advisors for the country's troubled vaccine rollout.

The prime minister also argues he did not want to rush approval of vaccines while case numbers were low.

'We have had a cautious approach in Australia on medical advice,' he told ABC radio on Thursday.

Scott Morrison continues to blame Australia's expert medical advisors for the country's troubled vaccine rollout

'We wanted to follow all the usual steps and processes to ensure the vaccines were appropriately qualified before they were used in the community.'

Mr Morrison said the initial plan was to rely on AstraZeneca vaccines that could be manufactured in Australia.

He continued to shift blame to the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation for the slow rollout.

In April, it recommended imported Pfizer vaccines be reserved for people aged under 50 because of the low risk of rare but potentially fatal blood clots linked to AstraZeneca.

In June, that recommendation was broadened to anyone aged under 60.

Pfizer remains the preferred vaccine for people younger than that.

But ATAGI updated its advice again this week because of the Sydney outbreak.

Under 60s in hotspot areas were advised to consider getting AstraZeneca if Pfizer was unavailable.

The recommended wait time between AstraZeneca doses was also slashed from 12 weeks to between four and eight for greater Sydney.

Mr Morrison said confusion was created as he rolled out the vaccinations slowly due to low case numbers and advice from the Australian Technical Advisory Group

'We received medical advice that has changed on two occasions and that medical advice, as I made very clear to ATAGI at the time, was based on an assumption cases would remain low,' Mr Morrison said.

'The balance of risk assessment were based on low case numbers in Australia.

'It has created some confusion in the public.'

Many older Australians are choosing to wait for an alternative to AstraZeneca before getting a COVID-19 vaccine.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics has surveyed people in different age groups on their reasons for not getting a jab.

Pfizer remains the preferred vaccine for people under 60 years of age

A third of people aged between 50 and 69 and one in four respondents aged over 70 said they were waiting for a different vaccine.

Sydney's lockdown was this week extended to July 30.

But epidemiologist Henning Liljeqvist said it would take longer than an extra two weeks to get the outbreak under control.

The Delta variant was so infectious that if people shared a household then it could be assumed they were going to get infected.

'We're looking at least three, possibly four weeks before we can start thinking about lifting restrictions,' he told the ABC.

Victoria is also at risk of another lockdown after recording Delta variant clusters linked to NSW.
England and Wales are set to make virginity testing a criminal offence as campaigners warn the unscientific practice leaves women and girls at risk of so-called 'honour' killings.

The procedure involves an examination to assess whether the hymen is intact. This is based on the false but widely held belief that all women and girls' hymens are broken in the first instance of penetrative vaginal sex.

The move to criminalise the practice follows a private member's bill introduced by Conservative MP Richard Holden to outlaw the intrusive procedure.

With the backing of the Department of Health and Social Care, the proposals have now been introduced into the Health and Care Bill.

The draft legislation also includes for the first time the banning of hymenoplasty - the process by which the hymen is temporarily reconstructed. The procedure is also known as hymen or virginity 'repair'.

Under the bill, anyone found to have carried out the procedure would be breaking the law.

'Virginity tests and hymen repair surgeries are being conducted by doctors to check or 'restore' the virginity of girls and women, often prior to marriage,' Holden said.

'These practices are not founded in science, are abusive and perpetuate dangerous myths'.

England and Wales are set to make virginity testing a criminal offence as campaigners warn the unscientific practice leaves women and girls at risk of so-called 'honour' killings. The procedure involves an examination to assess whether the hymen is intact [Stock image]

It is a commonly held misconception that a woman or girl's hymen remains intact until the first instance of penetrative vaginal sex, at which point some bleeding will occur. However, the hymen can also tear through other activities including tampon use, exercise and masturbation.

It is possible for a woman's hymen to remain intact throughout her life, regardless of sexual activity, as the membrane is flexible, and it is not considered abnormal for a girl to be born without a hymen.

There is no known examination that can prove a history of vaginal intercourse and a hymenoplasty does not guarantee bleeding.

The World Health Organization considers virginity testing to be a violation of human rights, saying it 'is associated with both immediate and long-term consequences that are detrimental to her physical, psychological and social well-being.'

'Young girls deserve to grow up without worrying about "breaking their womanhood", so we must end this honour-based abuse,' Holden said.

The MP is due to meet with health secretary Sajid Javid to discuss the ban and hopes to gain cross-party support for reforms to the bill.

Nadine Dorries, the health minister, has already given it her backing.

Campaigners have raised concerns that any woman or girl who 'fails' a virginity test could be at risk of a so-called honour killing.

Heshu Yones, whose death in 2002 was the first UK murder to be recognised by police as an honour killing, was killed by her father after allegedly failing a virginity test. She was 16 years old.

The Times reported that Karma Nirvana, a charity aiming to end honour-based abuse in the UK, has seen a 75 per cent increase in calls to its national helpline regarding virginity testing and hymenoplasty since October last year.

The charity told the paper that those getting in touch were aged between 17 to 35 and included rape victims whose families were forcing them to have a hymenoplasty.

Others were being pushed into being subjected to a test to 'prove' they were a virgin before getting married.

Natasha Rattu recounted the case of a woman who called the helpline after she became pregnant by her boyfriend, telling the charity that her parents had tried to force her into having an abortion and hymenoplasty.

She escaped before the procedure but was left deeply traumatised by the ordeal, The Times reported.

The woman's case 'is not uncommon,' Rattu told the paper, adding that between 2020 and 2021, the charity had supported 41 women and girls 'where not being a 'virgin' was the motive of honour abuse'.

'One caller, known as Sommer*, was raped at the age of 17. She asked her counsellor to ensure that her parents would not find out as they would kill her because "virginity is sacred and they wouldn't care if it was rape",' Rattu told The Times.

Her brother beat her violently and tried to stab her after family members told her parents she had been seen drinking with boys. She was taken to a London clinic to have a virginity test on the recommendation of a relative.

There is no known examination that can prove a history of vaginal intercourse and a hymenoplasty does not guarantee bleeding, nor is a broken hymen necessarily an indicator that a girl or woman has had sex [Stock image]

'I felt like I was walking into my funeral knowing I would fail the test,' she said.

Diana Nammi, founder of the Iranian and Kurdish Women's Rights Organisation, told The Times that mention of a hymenoplasty 'is a major red flag that a girl or woman is at serious risk of "honour" abuse - including "honour" killing - and needs to be supported with safeguarding measures.'

NHS England data, collected by the BBC last year, found that 69 hymen repair procedures had been carried out since 2015.

The actual number is likely to be higher as the procedure is most often done at private clinics at a cost of up to 3,000.

*Not her real name
Boris Johnson will today try to reassure southern voters that his 'levelling up' agenda will not leave them out in the cold.

The Prime Minister will insist that prosperous areas in the South East will benefit from spreading economic growth more widely.

His speech  designed to put flesh on the bones of his election-winning slogan  comes amid Tory jitters over last month's Chesham and Amersham by-election defeat to the Liberal Democrats.

Mr Johnson will say that the Government's success will hinge on whether it can 'raise living standards, spread opportunity, improve our public services and restore people's sense of pride in their community', particularly in areas that had been left behind.

The Prime Minister will insist that prosperous areas in the South East will benefit from spreading economic growth more widely

He will warn that previous governments invested too much in 'areas where house prices are already sky high and transport is already congested'.

He will add: 'By turbo-charging those areas, especially in London and the South East, you drive prices even higher and you force more and more people to move to the same expensive areas. And the result is that their commutes are longer, their trains are more crowded, they have less time with their kids.

'They worry at the same time that the younger generation won't be able to get a home and that their leafy suburb or village will be engulfed by new housing development but without the infrastructure to go with it.'

The 'level up' pledge was seen as central to smashing Labour's 'Red Wall' seats in the Midlands and the North. Former No 10 adviser turned Tory MP Neil O'Brien has been recruited to work out policy details. The agenda will include a focus on local infrastructure projects and the regeneration of high streets.

His speech  designed to put flesh on the bones of his election-winning slogan  comes amid Tory jitters over last month's Chesham and Amersham by-election defeat to the Liberal Democrats. Pictured: Chesham and Amersham Lib Dem MP Sarah Green

The Chesham by-election's 25 per cent swing to the Lib Dems came as a shock to southern Tories.

One MP said: 'You can't bang on about levelling up the North without voters in the South starting to wonder what's in it for them.' Speaking in the West Midlands, the PM will insist: 'We don't want to decapitate the tall poppies. We don't think you can make the poor parts of the country richer by making the rich parts poorer.'

Meanwhile, the Government will today confirm plans for eight new hospitals  the first batch of a promised 40 by 2030. Four will be in the West Midlands, Cumbria, Liverpool and Brighton, with four more expected in London, Manchester, Nottingham and Northumberland.
Dramatic footage of a nurse collapsing in front of a handsome police officer has the internet convinced the young woman had ulterior motives.

In CCTV uploaded by Facebook page Cop Humour on Wednesday, the young nurse is seen walking out of the hospital and across the car park.

As the woman walks past a parked police car she falls to the ground, prompting the young officer to come to her rescue.

As the nurse walks past a parked police car she falls to the ground and tumbles into the road, prompting the young officer to come to her rescue

As the nurse pulls herself to her feet she turns to face the approaching cop, leading many to believe the blunder was simply a clever ploy to catch his attention.

'When you see a hot cop and and trip over nothing just so they come and help', Cop Humour captioned the video, which was quickly inundated with comments.

Dozens of women relayed their own encounters with handsome police officers, with several admitting they had also tried the age-old trick.

'Oh the classic damsel in distress move,' one woman said.

'I tried this once, they just kept driving. Story of my life,' another shared.

Dozens of women relayed their own encounters with handsome police officers, with several admitting they had also tried the age-old trick

'Tried it many times. Never works,' a third wrote.

'Poor girl probably just finished working a double shift. Please tell me they're dating now,' another woman said.

'After a long shift her bed was calling via gravity. Hot cop come to the rescue, who knows, this could be a romance in the making,' wrote another.

However other less romantic social media users said the nurse simply tripped over herself.

'I think she tripped over her shoe lace, seemed to work like a charm,' one said.

'Looks like a nurse who's probably done a 16-hour shift,' another said.

'I trip over nothing but there isn't usually some hot guy to pick me up,' a third wrote.
The Pentagon has confirmed to Tucker Carlson that they are using an Air Force base in Texas to fly illegal immigrants on passenger planes across the country to be 'resettled' in the U.S.

'This show has confirmed that the Biden administration has enlisted the U.S. military to move illegal immigrants secretly around our country,' said Carlson on Wednesday night.

He pointed to an email sent by Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Burrows, stationed at Laughlin air force base in Texas, explaining what was happening to his subordinates - and asking that they keep it secret.

Tucker Carlson on Wednesday night told how a military air base was being used for passenger planes transporting migrants, in a repeat of May 2019

Carlson showed off an email sent by Lt Col Matthew Burrows, telling his subordinates what was happening

'Over the next few days, weeks, or months you may see passenger aircraft on a ramp transporting undocumented non-citizens,' he wrote.

'Please review the attached guidance on the issue.

'Do not take photographs and refrain from posting anything on social media.'

Chris Mitchell, a Pentagon spokesman, confirmed that Laughlin was being used again for the immigration authorities' flights.

He described the flights from Laughlin as 'noncitizen movement', as part of Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE)'s 'mission'.

It was unclear where they were flying to.

The transportation of migrants away from the border and inland on buses had been reported before, as had the flying of migrants from one border crossing to another for deportation, in what are termed 'lateral flights'.

The military airbase, Laughlin, was previously used by ICE in 2019, under Donald Trump, according to San Angelo Live.

Migrants are seen in Penitas, Texas, on July 8 waiting to be processed by Border Patrol

Military planes are seen at Laughlin air force base in Texas. ICE are using the air force base to transport, on passenger planes, migrants across the country

Last month a Texas Democrat, Tony Gonzales, wrote to military officials recommending they use Laughlin for ICE activities.

Gonzales wrote to Jennifer Miller, Acting Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Installations, to request access at Laughlin for ICE to fly migrants to their final destination, rather than releasing them in the Del Rio area.

'The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector has been stretched beyond their means by the overwhelming amount of migrants being apprehended on a daily basis,' said Congressman Gonzales.

'By utilizing Laughlin Air Force Base, ICE could address the high number of migrant releases and alleviate the pressure that this crisis has inflicted on border communities.'

It appeared that Miller has approved his request.

The Biden administration has, since March, been flying migrants from one processing center to another, from where they are then deported.

ICE have not responded to questions.

'The question is, where are all these people going?' asked Carlson.

'Several times ICE promised us additional details but in the end we never heard back.

'Apparently Americans do not have a right to know where foreign nationals are being resettled in their own country.'

Carlson returned to his theme of 'white replacement theory' - the idea that Democrats are deliberately bringing in Hispanic migrants, in the belief that they are more likely to vote Democrat than Republican.

The theory sparked widespread anger, with the Anti-Defamation League accusing Carlson of parroting white supremacist ideas, and calling for him to be fired.

Planes are seen lined up at Laughlin air force base in Texas

On Wednesday, Carlson repeated his accusation, claiming without evidence that the migrants were being transported inland and saying: 'Oh, changing the electoral map, are we?

'Serving the businesses that paid for you to get elected are we? Yes we are.

'What you're watching is demographic transformation.

'In our country, without our consent and in violation of our laws. That is happening.

'Our job is to shut up and accept it.

'We know they will call us names if we don't accept it, but no thanks.

'What's happening, what they are doing, is wrong.

'It is, moreover, a violation of the most and basic promise of democracy, which is that citizens get to control who runs the government.

'We as citizens have an absolute right to know what exactly they are doing and we are going to try to learn.'

U.S. officials encountered 180,034 migrants during the month of May, reaching a new peak under President Joe Biden - a one per cent increase compared to April's numbers.

June's figures are not yet out, the number of migrant encounters at the U.S.-Mexico border has reached the highest point in nearly two decades.
Queensland is on alert after three new locally acquired cases of Covid were reported on Thursday morning, including a child and a fully-vaccinated airport worker.

The new cases mean the state's mask mandate will be extended another week in the south-east.

One case was a 12-year-old boy who completed quarantine in Sydney and flew into Brisbane on QF544 on July 9.

The 12-year-old boy's father also tested positive. The third case is a fully-vaccinated international airport worker.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced the mask mandate would continue for another week for 11 LGAs, including Brisbane City Council, Logan, Moreton Bay, Ipswich, Redlands, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Noosa, Somerset, Lockyer Valley and Scenic Rim.

Restrictions would be eased for Townsville.

A fully vaccinated worker at Brisbane International Airport had tested positive, it was announced on Thursday morning

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced the mask mandate would continue for another week for 11 LGAs in south-east Queensland as a result of the new cases

Chief Health Officer Jeannette Young hoped genome sequencing would establish how the 12-year-old boy acquired the virus later on Thursday.

The boy had travelled with his mother to Los Angeles for three months, returning to Sydney on June 21 and entering hotel quarantine.

He and his mother, from Newport in Brisbane, then travelled to Queensland on Qantas flight 544 on July 9.

The boy become unwell the evening he arrived back in Brisbane and attended the Aspley Medical Centre and an adjacent pharmacy on July 13, and was tested the same day.

'That result came back late yesterday,' Dr Young said. 'We then have tested his parents. His mother has tested negative at this stage, but she is now in hospital with her son and the father has tested positive.

'He did go to the airport to pick up his son and his partner.'

The father worked while infectious at a financial services firm at Cotton Tree, near Maroochydore.

'We will be contact tracing there,' Dr Young said. 'We don't believe that either the child, their mother or the father have been to any other exposure venues, but of course we are going through and talking to all three at the moment to see where else they might have been.'

Dr Young said it was believed the boy had acquired the virus while in hotel quarantine in Sydney and his infection was not related to existing Queensland cases.

Queensland Chief Health Officer Jeannette Young expressed concern about an airport employee who worked for three days while infectious at Thursday's Covid update

Dr Young expressed concern about the airport worker who had tested positive.

'They have been working at the airport for three days while infectious,' she said. 'Nothing to do with them. They did absolutely the right thing and they were vaccinated.

'But we now have to see where they have been working, who they have come into contact with.'

The woman from Tarragindi had been vaccinated with Pfizer and became unwell last Tuesday evening.

Dr Young said the woman was deemed infectious from Sunday afternoon while she was at work at Brisbane International Airport from 6pm through to 11:30pm.

She visited a local Woolworths on Monday and a Chemist Warehouse on Wednesday before being tested.

Riverlink shopping centre in North Ipswich (pictured) was added as an exposure site on Wednesday

Club Services Ipswich was listed on Wednesday night as Queensland announced seven new exposure sites

Passengers arriving at Brisbane International Airport which was listed as an exposure site on Wednesday evening

Ms Palaszczuk warned Queenslanders about travelling to Victoria after new clusters emerged in the state.

'Do not go to Victoria at this time,' she said. 'If you are a Queenslander currently in Victoria, maybe reconsider your travel and think about coming home.'

Dr Young confirmed border arrangements with NSW would remain unchanged for now as Covid had not been detected in sewerage results 'outside their lockdown area'.

Queensland Health listed seven new coronavirus exposure sites in Brisbane on Wednesday evening after being tipped off by an unnamed country that a Covid-positive person had been moving around the city while infected.

A public health alert was issued for new sites at North Ipswich, Inala and at the Brisbane Airport.

'Queensland Health has been notified by another country that a positive COVID-19 case detected overseas had been in the community prior to departure,' the department said in an alert last night.

The new sites identified on Wednesday included Kmart, Vodaphone, Telstra and JB Hi-Fi outlets at the Riverlink shopping centre in North Ipswich between about 12.24pm and 1.10pm on Friday, July 9.

The alert also listed the Brisbane Airport international terminal 'Level 3 departures, toilets in hallway near newsagency' on the same day, between 9.45pm and 10.15pm.

Club Services Ipswich between 1.15pm and 2.15pm that day, and Chac's Grill at Inala between 7pm and 8pm that same evening were also listed.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Queensland government said it would keep the NSW border open, saying the Greater Sydney lockdown was containing the city's COVID-19 outbreak.
A Sydney teenager has resorted to printing out a fake Uber sticker before placing it on his back car window in a brazen attempt to escape the city's current lockdown laws.

The 18-year-old shared footage revealing the bold lockdown 'tip' to TikTok on Wednesday, amassing over 150,000 views in just 12 hours.

In the video, the teen can be seen entering an Officeworks store in NSW to continue to work on the rogue sign he initially created on his laptop.

He then tell viewers 'Nobody's gonna know' in relation to his sneaky - and illegal - behaviour.

A Sydney teenager has revealed how he was able to beat Sydney's lockdown laws by posting a fake Uber logo sticker to his car. Ride share drivers are deemed an essential service

In the video, the 18-year-old can be seen entering an Officeworks store in NSW to continue to work on the rogue Uber sign (pictured) he initially created on his laptop

After finishing the fake rideshare logo in store, he can then be seen placing the Uber symbol on his vehicle.

The clip finishes with a message from the teenager stating to viewers 'IYKYK' - short for If You Know, You Know.

It remains unknown if the youngster then fraudulently acted as a rideshare driver.

Across all state and territories in Australia, drivers must display a legitimate sign that shows they are running a passenger transport vehicle, according to the Uber website.

If the authentic sign is not properly displayed, or isn't clearly visible, fines apply.

In May, a man was attacked and allegedly had $12,600 swiped from his bank accounts by another man accused of posing as an Uber driver after he was lured into the fake rideshare car outside a Melbourne bar.

Muhammad Umer, 22, allegedly preyed on intoxicated revellers outside bars by offering them a lift home or convincing them he was the Uber they had just ordered.

It is believed Umer even had an Uber identification sticker on his car to aid him in his alleged deceit.

Once the victims were in the fake Uber, police allege Umer stole their credit cards and even obtained PIN numbers to make purchases and withdraw money exceeding $75,000 from 14 alleged victims.

The matter remains before the courts.

Uber confirmed they have invested in technology to increase accountability and transparency in transportation, but for it to be effective, riders need to be in the correct vehicle.

Uber also provide driver identification photos through their widely used app so customers can confirm it is the correct person collecting them.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Uber for comment.
Angry authorities have promised to 'throw the book' at the Sydney removalists who ignored strict Covid protocol and took the high-infectious Delta strain from Sydney and into Melbourne - as Victoria prepares to enter another lockdown

The removalists drove in two separate trucks from a Covid hotspot in Sydney's south-west on July 8, stopping at a series of fast food restaurants and petrol stations before delivering furniture to a home in Melbourne's north and the Ariele Apartments in Maribyrnong, in Melbourne's inner west.

The men triggered the city's latest outbreak, leaving residents facing another lockdown on Thursday night - and Victoria's Covid-19 response commander has promised criminal sanction against the men.

'I'm exceptionally frustrated at the pace and transparency of information coming from the removalists,' Covid response commander Jeroen Weimar said.

'It's been a matter of concern that we haven't had quick and transparent exposure of all the information.'

'Books will be thrown at them'.

The men face fines of up to $45,000 each for breaking protocol.

A group of removalists, two infected with coronavirus, have sparked an outbreak in Victoria that leaves the state teetering on the edge of lockdown after visiting several venues and even travelling to South Australia

The Ariele Apartments in Maribyrnong, Melbourne (pictured) is at the centre of a Covid outbreak after the infected Sydney removalists spent several hours there - spreading the virus to at least four people in two households

Residents currently under quarantine at the Ariel Apartment complex are seen on their balcony on Wednesday after being put into a strict lockdown and banned from leaving their homes

Mr Weimar said the removalists two travelled in two separate trucks, were 'not being deliberately forthcoming' which was hindering their investigations into potential sites of exposure.

'That's why we're talking about Kalkallo now  24 hours after we started talking about the first sites, which is a source of frustration to all of us,' he said.

The Covid-19 response commander also said they have studied CCTV footage and determined the men at the centre of the outbreak were not wearing masks, further breaking protocol.

'We've got access to as much data as we're going to get,' Mr Weimar said.

'Many operators have various other recording systems on their vehicles  it would appear the vehicles concerned, when we finally got more information from the operator, don't have those recording systems.'

They face up to $45,000 each in fines, including $11,000 each for not keeping accurate records, $11,000 for providing false/misleading information and a massive $21,000 for refusing to comply with coronavirus directions.

3AW radio host Neil Mitchell said the men deserve the full brunt of potential punishments saying the money 'doesn't solve the problem' when compared to the damage being done.

'These people have tricked, and lied, and covered up. Potentially that's endangering lives,' he said.

'We still don't even know what company they work for. It will happen again.'

The removalists held a red-zone permit to enter the state which give non-Victorian residents the opportunity to enter who are specified, transit or freight workers.

'A red zone means a location in a State, Territory or Green Zone Country assessed as high risk for SARS-CoV-2 transmission, but only during the specific period for that location detailed on the Victorian Travel Map (below) as amended from time to time with the approval of the Chief Health Officer,' the Victorian government website says.

'When applying for a red zone permit, applicants should be aware of any very high-risk exposure sites in jurisdictions they may have travelled to in the 14 days before entering Victoria.'

The removalists were permitted to enter Victoria but broke a number of rules tied to their red-zone permits.

'Books will be thrown when it's time, when it's ready to throw them, and I'm exceptionally frustrated at the pace and transparency of information coming from the removalists' exposure,' Jeroen Weimar said

The Hungry Jack's in Marulan in NSW (pictured) has been flagged as an exposure site after being visited by the men on their way back to Sydney

The infected removalists stopped at the Mobil service station in Ballan (pictured) during their interstate trip

The removalist crew set off from Covid-ravaged western Sydney on July 8 stopping at a Hungry Jacks and a Caltex service station in Kalkallo before dropping off a load of furniture to a home in Craigieburn on Melbourne's northern outskirts.

They then travelled to Maribyrnong in Melbourne's west to the third floor of the Ariele Apartments and picked up a set of furniture bound for Adelaide.

Later that evening on July 8, the removalists left Melbourne and travelled to Ballan, near Ballarat where they visited a Mobil service station and a McDonald's for food and one had a shower.

The following morning, on July 9, they headed to McLaren Vale in Adelaide, where one of the crew was informed by NSW Health that they were a primary close contact of another positive case back in Sydney.

All three crew members then headed back to Sydney on July 10, but stopped off at a Shell service station in South Australia's Tailem Bend, and a Hungry Jack's in Marulan, NSW.

It was later that day one of the crew returned a positive test. Then on July 11, a second crew member was also confirmed to be infected.

Millions of residents in Melbourne are bracing a new wave of Covid restrictions after two infected Sydney removalists transmitted the virus during a trip to Victoria last week (pictured, a woman in Melbourne)

Mr Weimar said the information the trio gave to contact tracers was 'not as crisp and clear and consistent' as it should be, with two not believed to speak English.

'I don't have a complete accurate track in terms of exactly where they stayed,' Mr Weimar said.

'My understanding at this point in time is that they stayed in their cab as part of their protocols.

'Any other locations they may have stopped at we're still trying to track down definitively.'

Mr Weimar said the next two days would be critical to stamp out the outbreaks.
RAF pilots will spend most of their time training in advanced simulators on the ground rather than accumulating hours in the cockpit of advanced jets.

Under current training rules, RAF pilots spend 70 per cent of their time in the air with 30 per cent in simulators.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston said he wants this ratio reversed, with the majority of training to take place on the ground - saving flight hours for fighting wars or demonstrations of power.

RAF Typhoon pilots could soon see themselves doing much of their training in advanced simulators rather than behind the controls of mulit-million pound aircraft

Instead of spending most of their time inside the high performance aircraft, pilots will continue their training in simulators

According to The Times, pilots will be able to use some of the hours accumulated in the simulator to count towards their qualification as pilots.

He told a conference in London: 'I can see a future where almost all training, force generation and mission planning and rehearsal is done in a synthetic environment.'

New highly realistic simulators, such as the 36m Gladiator, will allow US and UK pilots to face real-life scenarios that would be impossible or impractical in the real world.

Typhoon pilots have been using the Gladiator system, but drone pilots will also be able to hone their skills on the machine.

Ultimately, Wigston would like to integrate the Royal Navy into the system, allowing both branches to operate inside the same simulation allowing to train together.

A naval source told The Times: 'People go online and fight with their friends in Call of Duty. This is like a big, complex version of that, where real airmen operate in a synthetic war without having to leave the ground. You can record and play it back, you can press pause. The enemy cant watch what you are doing and what your tactics are.'
The Cuban government will be temporarily be lifting restrictions on the amount of food, medicine and hygiene products that travelers are allowed to bring into the country after widespread protests.

Since Sunday, thousands of demonstrators have taken to the streets of the Communist island to protest shortages of basic goods, limitations on civil liberties and the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prime Minister Manuel Marrero said on Wednesday night the government will put the measures into place beginning next Monday until December 31.

Protesters have made several demands, including for the Communist-run government to lift customs restrictions on food, medicine and hygiene products that are lacking in the country amid its worst economic crisis since the fall of former ally the Soviet Union.

'It was a demand made by many travelers and it was necessary to take this decision,' Marrero said Wednesday during on a roundtable on state television.

It was not immediately clear how much difference the change would make to Cuba's humanitarian situation given that there are very few flights into the Caribbean island nation at the moment due to the pandemic.

Still image of a video filmed outside a home in Cuba shows a portrait of Fidel Castro in flames. The Cuban government has attempted to quell demonstrators by blocking the access to the internet. On Thursday, Florida Republican Governor Ron DeSantis called on the White House to help antigovernment protesters regain access

Residents shop for food in a street in Havana, Cuba, on Thursday, a day after Prime Minister Manuel Marrero said the government will be lifting restrictions on the amount of food, medicine and hygiene products that travelers will be allowed to bring into the country

Under the new proposal, passengers on international arriving flights will not have to pay customs tariffs for the much needed items.

Currently, travelers are only permitted a preset number of food and hygiene items. Travelers are also limited to brining in up to 22 pounds in medicine.

President Diaz-Canel and his administration have pinned the never-before-seen anti-government backlash on U.S.-financed 'counter-revolutionaries' exploiting economic hardship caused by U.S. sanctions.

In particular, officials have denounced a campaign on social media calling for humanitarian aid that they say was launched in a bid to destabilize the country.

'I call for solidarity and not to let hatred take over the Cuban soul, which is a soul of goodness, affection and love,' Diaz-Canel tweeted Thursday. 'Let us not be disunited by those who do not want the best for our nation. Warning! What social (media) networks tell us today is not our (Cuba).'

Protestors in Miami have continued to gather downtown throughout the week to demand that the Biden administration intervene in the Cuban protest

Protesters have been seen on video being beaten and dragged off the streets by the police in Cuba, leaving families clueless about their whereabouts.

The demonstrations in Cuba have extended to Florida, where more more than 60 percent of the two million Cubans living in the United States reside, according to U.S. Census data. At least 34.3 percent of them live in Miami-Dade.

Residents have gathered for daily protests calling for an end to communist rule in Cuba.

Cuban exile Anaylin Blanco, 20, told DailyMail.com that her two friends, William Echeverria Sayus, 23, and Enmanuel Hernandez, 26, took part in Sunday's protests and were snatched by the police.

'I grew up with them in Cuba. They were dragged off to jail and no one has heard a thing since," Blanco said. 'We are all frantically worried. You have no idea of the anxiety for me and their families.'

Blanco shared a video that shows William on the street moments before he was detained near his home.

President Diaz-Canel and his administration have pinned the never-before-seen anti-government backlash on U.S.-financed 'counter-revolutionaries' exploiting economic hardship caused by U.S. sanctions, saying the trade embargo 'does not allow us to advance at the speed we need'

Members of the Cuban police arrest an antigovernment demonstrator during a rally in Havana, Cuba, on Sunday as thousands took the streets to protest shortages of basic goods, limitations on civil liberties and a rise in the COVID-19 pandemic

President Diaz-Canel argued that the trade embargo, which dates back to 1962 under the administration of former President John F. Kennedy, 'exceeds any desire, it delays us, it does not allow us to advance at the speed we need, and that causes that, although we confront the problems, those that remain unsolved in relation to those difficulties that are solved accumulate more.'

Government critic Yoani Sanchez, who runs news website 14ymedio, was quick to tweet that such concessions would not be enough.

'We do not want crumbs, we want freedom, and we want it nowwwww,' she wrote. 'The streets have spoken: we are not afraid.'

A Cuban man unloads plantains from a truck in Havana, Cuba, while another worker carries a crate filled with avocados

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and other officials called on the White House to provide internet service for antigovernment protesters in the Communist island.

The Republican governor urged the administration of President Joe Biden to unleash giant balloons as floating Wi-Fi hotspots to allow images of dissent to stream unabated from the authoritarian nation.

Access to the internet for the most part has been blocked by the Cuban government stop the flow of information into, out of and within the country.

'Time is of the essence here. Every day that the regime has to black out the truth is a day they can get the upper hand on this,' DeSantis said of the Cuban government.

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio said on MSNBC that the United States should 'expand access to the internet, considering satellite feed of internet so that people in the island can communicate with each other.'

The White House responded by saying it would review whether the U.S. would be able to help Cubans regain access.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki called the lack of internet access 'a huge issue in Cuba' and added that 'we are certainly looking at that to see what can be done.'

A Cuban wearing a t-shirt with the US flag unloads bananas for sale in Havana, Cuba, on Thursday, a day after the Communist government announced the free import of food and medicines, following three days of unprecedented protests

A truck of special forces police sits parked outside National Capitol building in Havana, Cuba, on Sunday
The Army fired or suspended 14 officers and soldiers at the Fort Hood base in Texas after a damning investigation uncovered chronic leadership failures that contributed to a widespread pattern of violence including murder, sexual assaults and harassment.

In July, a panel of five civilians was formed to investigate the base's command culture and handling of sexual harassment cases and disappearances and those results were shared publicly in December.

'The investigation after Vanessa Guillen's murder found Fort Hood has a command climate that was permissive of sexual harassment and sexual assault,' then Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy said in a press conference in December.

He said the issues plaguing Fort Hood are 'directly related to leadership failures.'

Army Maj. Gen. Scott Efflandt, who was left in charge of the base when Guillen was killed, was fired from his post.

Army leaders had already delayed Efflandt's planned transfer to Fort Bliss, where he was supposed to take over leadership of the 1st Armored Division, due to the investigations into the base.

The base commander, Army Lt. Gen. Pat White, will not face any administrative action because he was deployed to Iraq as the commander there for much of the year.

The leadership of Guillen's unit, Col. Ralph Overland and Command Sgt. Maj. Bradley Knapp of the 3rd Cavalry Regiment were also fired.

Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Broadwater and Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas C. Kenny, 1st Cavalry Division commanding general and command sergeant major, were both suspended.

Army Maj. Gen. Scott Efflandt, who was left in charge of the base when Guillen was killed, was fired following the review

Suspended: Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Broadwater (left) and Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas C. Kenny (right), both of the 1st Cavalry Division, were suspended following the review

Fired: Col. Ralph Overland (left), the 3rd Cavalry Regiment commander and Command Sgt. Maj. Bradley Knapp (right), both of whom were in charge of Guillen's unit, were fired

Their suspension is pending the outcome of a new Army Regulation (AR) 15-6 investigation of 1st Cavalry Division's command climate and Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention program.

The names of the battalion level and below commanders and leaders who received administrative action were not released.

McCarthy said the panel published nine main findings and 70 recommendations that the Army is accepting to correct the command culture at the base.

The panel said they made an effort to talk to women in every division at the base, especially those in Guillen's unit.

The panel conducted 647 individual interviews on the base.

'Of the 503 women we interviewed [in the investigation], we discovered 93 credible accounts of sexual assault. Of those only 59 were reported,' said Queta Rodriguez, a member of the independent review panel.

'And we also found 217 unreported accounts of sexual harassment. Of those only half were reported. What we discovered was over the course of those interviews, the lack of confidence in the system effected the reports of those incidents,' she added.

The independent review found that the Army's Sexual Harassment and Assault Response and Prevention Program (SHARP) failed to curb sexual assault and harassment on bases due to structural failures.

Panelists said there was a lack of training, resourcing and staffing at the SHARP office on Fort Hood.

It also found that the command climate failed to practice the program's core values below the brigade level, which led to less trust in the program.

McCarthy ordered for the review in mid-July to find the 'root causes' of sexual harassment and violence on the base and whether the command culture and climate reflects the Army's values.

Of the 31 deaths at the base in 2020, while some where deemed accidents, five were homicides and 10 were suicides.

'Soldiers assaulting and harassing other Soldiers is contrary to Army values and requires a dramatic change in culture,' Chris Swecker, the independent review panel chair, said.

'There was a founded fear that the confidentiality of the [sexual assault] reporting process would be compromised. It took so long to get an adjudication that people never saw an adjudication,' he added.

He said the panel's recommendations were designed to 'address deeply dysfunctional norms and regain soldiers' trust,' he added.

The panel offered new policies for the Army to implement including a restructure of the SHARP Program at Fort Hood, which they said was ineffective at the base.

The panel advised for the creation of full time Victim Advocates comprised of a hybrid of civilian and uniformed personnel and the creation of a SHARP Program Office track to monitor the life-cycle and aging of each sexual assault and harassment case and prepare a quarterly report with that information.

They also suggested new measures to better track soldier disappearances.

The panel advised for the creation of an Army-wide set of protocols for 'failure to report' scenarios in the critical first 24 hours of a soldier's absence.

Under the new policy commanders will be required to list service members as absent-unknown for up to 48 hours and must do everything to locate them to determine whether their absence in voluntary before declaring them AWOL, or absent without leave.

It also includes new guidance on steps to classify soldiers as deserters.

McCarthy said the People First Task Force has been created to study the committee's recommendations and map out a plan to enact them.

Fort Hood Commanding General Lt. Gen. Pat White said: 'There's some candid feedback on the culture here. What was made abundantly clear is we have to fix our culture, particularly with sexual assault and harassment.'

He said changes are already underway at the base and he has set aside more than four million hours for junior leaders to work on team building and get to know their soldiers.

He said that the base was given notice of the firings and had time to prepare a 'compassion team' that includes a lawyer, a public affairs representative, a chaplain, behavioral health representative and a cyber awareness expert.

The five members of the independent review committee are Chris Swecker, Jonathan Harmon, Carrie Ricci, Queta Rodriguez and Jack White, who together have a combined 75 years of experience as active-duty military and law-enforcement personnel.

Chris Swecker is the former assistant director of FBI's Criminal Investigative Division and Jonathan Harmon is a civilian trial attorney who represented Fortune 500 companies and a combat veteran who served in the Gulf War.

Carrie Ricci is 21-year Army veteran and assistant general counsel for the Department of Agriculture, Queta Rodriguez is 20-year Marines veteran and regional director for the non-profit FourBlock, and Jack White a partner at the law firm Fluet Huber Hoang in McLean, Virginia who is a West Point graduate and served five years on active duty.
The latest Covid-19 patient in South Australia may have contracted the virus from another guest who was staying at the same quarantine hotel.

Health authorities were scratching their heads on Wednesday trying to figure out how a man in his 40s caught coronavirus inside his room on the top floor of the Stamford Plaza Hotel in Adelaide.

One theory is that the virus spread through aerosol transmission, which means the man could have inhaled Covid-19 particles from a patient in his 20s who was staying in the opposite room.

Health authorities in SA have been left scratching their heads trying to work out how a man caught Covid while inside a quarantine facility. Pictured: Health workers in Adelaide

Pictured: The Stamford Plaza Hotel in Adelaide, where a man caught Covid staying in the opposite room to a positive case

Genomic sequencing on Thursday will confirm whether the cases are linked, and if it is the Indian Delta variant.

If a link is found between the pair, it would mark the state's third major breach at a medi-hotel.

SA Health are scrambling to track down 14 other guests who were in isolation at the hotel at the same time as the new case - ten of whom has since travelled interstate.

State laws say all travellers must get a Covid test three days after leaving quarantine.

A further five guests from the hotel's 19th floor have been ordered to stay in quarantine until the situation is resolved.

SA laws say all travellers must get a Covid test three days after leaving quarantine. Pictured: Health workers in Adelaide

Health authorities have also instigated a wider investigation to determine whether the spread was a result of the hotel's operations.

Both cases are in stable conditions in Adelaide's Tom's Court facility for Covid patients.

The man in his 40s tested positive on Tuesday - on day 13 of quarantine, while the younger man returned a positive test result on July 5.

Authorities believe he contracted the virus overseas.

Pictured: People wearing protective face masks walk along Rundle Mall, Adelaide

Deputy chief public health officer Emily Kirkpatrick said the situation is being investigated.

'Whenever we have a new Covid-19 case we need to step through and undertake a risk assessment, undertake that thorough contact tracing process to see if there has been any risk at all, or any potential transmission within a medi-hotel,' she said.

'So, as part of that investigation, it was determined potentially that he may have been an active infection, rather than a historical infection.'

If there is no link between the pair, she said it is likely the older man had a longer incubation period.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian has hit back at a reporter who demanded she plunge Sydneysiders into a tougher lockdown - bombarding her with relentless questions about whether restrictions will be eased by August.

The fiery clash with Sky News political editor Andrew Clennell came during a press conference on Thursday morning where Ms Berejiklian announced 65 new cases in the city, of which 28 had been in the community while infectious.

'Premier, you have locked us down for three weeks and now you are look locking us down for another two weeks,' Mr Clennell said.

'What is to say it won't be another two weeks on top of that? When are you going to acknowledge it is time to lock it down harder to get rid of this thing?'

On Thursday morning, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian (pictured) announced 65 new cases

Ms Berejiklian responded her government is 'never afraid' to make 'difficult decisions' to keep the community safe and would not hesitate to strengthen lockown measures if need be.

Unsatisfied with the answer, Mr Clennell interrupted with: 'It's the time now'.

Ms Berejiklian paused and said: 'You've asked a very important question and I'd appreciate you allowing me to finish my answer.'

She explained the current lockdown rules have been set following the advice of top medical experts.

'We rely on the best health advice available and the people of New South Wales know given our track record, that we are never afraid to take the difficult decisions to keep out community safe,' she said.

Mr Clennell was again unsatisfied with the Premier's answers, and continued to demand to know why lockdown measures had not been strengthened.

'What if you lock it down harder?' he asked. 'What if you do toughen public health orders?

'What if you do say "one hour of exercise a day and shut retail".'

'Are you saying it would make no difference in terms of when we come out of this?'

A visibly frustrated Ms Berejiklian said she hadn't seen a single case of community transmission through outdoor exercise - and added that pharmacies and health clinics were among the largest virus hotspots.

Medical centres and chemists are both considered essential services and would not close during a tougher lockdown anyway.

Andrew Clennell, political editor for Sky News Australia, demands to know whether Premier of New South Wales, Gladys Berejiklian will lock NSW down harder (above).

Andrew Clennell (pictured) fired a barrage of questions at Premier Gladys Berejiklian during a press conference on Thursday

'The best health advice we have, and I will allow Dr Chant to expand on, is that we need everybody to stay the course,' Ms Berekilian said.

'The rules we have in place are there for a reason.'

Current lockdown rules allow people in Greater Sydney, Wollongong, the Central Coast and the Blue Mountains to meet up with one other person outdoors for exercise, with no time limit.

There's no curfew on residents, no limitations on the amount of time people are allowed to spend in outdoor public spaces, and retailers have not been forced to close.

Mr Clennell pointed out the number of new cases announced each day, which hover between 65 and 112, was 'not shifting'.

But the premier hit back, saying that if the highly contagious Delta strain was really ripping through Sydney, daily case numbers would be 'doubling or tripling'.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the drop in locally-acquired infections - down from 97 new cases on Wednesday - was a promising sign authorities may be turning the tide on the outbreak

'Had we let this virus rip, the case numbers and those infectious in the community would have increased exponentially,' she reasoned

'We are not seeing that trend. What we are seeing at the moment is the start of a stabilisation proceed.'

Ms Berejiklian acknowledged that the daily case numbers have been fluctuating, but said that is to be expected - adding there could be a higher number on Friday because there were 28 people infectious in the community within the last 24 hours.

As the leader started encouraging NSW residents to follow the rules, Mr Clennell said: 'With respect, the best health advice got us a five-week lockdown.'

'That is what the best health advice has got us, hasn't it?' he asked.

A Covid-infected worker at a Sydney building firm may have exposed hundreds to the virus after turning up for work for two weeks while infectious (pictured, workers in Sydney on Wednesday)

The Premier defended the government's decision to lock Sydney down on June 26 and explained that if it hadn't happened, there would be thousands of cases in the community.

'We took the action we did when we did to avert medical and health disaster, and we stick without decisions because they're based on the best health advice.'

She also said that the government would not hesitate to impose further restrictions on residents if the situation worsens.

Mr Clennell then fired a volley of questions at the premier to get her to definitively say whether Sydney would be out of lockdown by the end of July.

Eventually, the fed-up premier said: 'I wish I had a crystal ball.'

'I wish I knew where we'd be in two weeks' time, but I do know that a large component of where we'll be in the next two weeks depends on all of us.'

Two pedestrians in hi-vis jackets are pictured walking along the promenade at Bondi Beach in Sydney's eastern suburbs. The NSW government has refused to enforce a time limit on daily exercise

At one point, another journalist interjected to tell Mr Clennell: 'You've had your turn'.

Meanwhile, Ms Berejiklian said the drop in locally-acquired infections - down from 97 new cases on Wednesday - was a promising sign authorities may be turning the tide on the state's highly-contagious outbreak of the Delta variant.

Sydney is nearing the end of a third week of a strict stay-at-home lockdown, which was on Wednesday extended until at least July 30 to stem the spread of the virus.

There are now 73 patients across the state in hospital suffering from Covid-19 (up two from Wednesday) and 19 in intensive care (down one from Wednesday).

However, there are now five Covid-19 patients state-wide - compared to four on Wednesday - who need a ventilator to breathe.

Of the 65 new cases recorded in the 24 hours to 8pm on Wednesday night, 46 were detected in south-west Sydney and eight were found in the city's south-east.

The outbreak of infections that began on June 16 when an airport limousine worker tested positive has now reached 929 locally-acquired cases.
A drunk father who went to his ex partner's house assaulting her and demanding sex has been convicted and fined $1000.

The man, who legally cannot be named, pleaded guilty on Wednesday to one charge of assault at Korumburra Magistrates' Court in eastern Victoria.

The court heard the man had been drinking heavily with his brother until about 11pm on January 30, 2020 when he went to his ex-partner's house.

The Melbourne man pleaded guilty on Wednesday at Korumburra Magistrates' Court (pictured)

The woman, who has children with the man, let him into her home where he proceeded to try to have sex with her after telling her he loved her.

When she responded she didn't love him back and resisted sex he became enraged, verbally abusing her and calling her 'a dog'.

As the women phoned police for help he grabbed the phone and threw it across the room.

Despite his attempts to shut down the call, police were dispatched and went to the home where the man denied the assault.

Lawyer Meaghan Crouch said the father was suffering from depression at the time and was now 'dealing with his alcohol use.'

'Fortunately he is in a far better place now,' Ms Crouch said.

Magistrate Marita Altman advised the man to think of his children in future.

'You have got to establish and maintain a respectful, helpful and healthy relationship with your former partner,' the magistrate said.

'You almost certainly may never be partners in that way again  but you will always be mum and dad.'
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Dozens of Christian churches on indigenous lands in Canada have been torched and vandalized since unmarked graves of indigenous children near First Nation boarding schools were first discovered at the end of May.

Since then, more than 1,000 graves have been found near Native American boarding schools - many of which were run by the Catholic Church and were part of an abusive system that the country's Truth and Reconciliation Commission called 'cultural genocide' in 2015.

After the graves were found, about 12 churches were burned throughout the country between June 21 and July 9.

Most of the fires were set near the town of Penticton, British Columbia - about 40 miles north of Washington state - the Royal Canadian Mounted Police said in multiple statements.

It is estimated that there have been about 45 acts of arson or vandalism to Canadian Christian churches or places of worship since June.

Flames engulf a Catholic church as firefighters work to extinguish the fire at St. Jean Baptiste Parish in Morinville, Alberta, Canada June 30

The St. Jean Baptiste Parish fire in Alberta on June 30 was the second major fire in less than a week

About a dozen Christian Churches on Indigenous lands in Canada have been torched in the last month

The RCMP said they're investigating all of the blazes at Catholic churches in Canada as 'suspicious' and looking to see if they're connected.

The fires started after the remains of 215 Indigenous children were found in late May on the grounds of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School in British Columbia.

On June 24, the Cowessess First Nation said it had discovered the unmarked graves of an estimated 751 people near the site of the former Catholic-run Marieval Indian Residential School in Saskatchewan.

On June 30, the Lower Kootenay Band said the aq'am First Nation discovered the remains of about 182 people near the site of the former Catholic-run St. Eugene's Mission School near Cranbrook, British Columbia.

The discoveries coincided with the rash of church burnings, although police haven't definitively connected the two.

Maryanne Klaassen looks inside the church doors covered in red paint July 3 at Grace Presbyterian Church in Calgary, Alberta. It's among dozens of Canadian churches that have been vandalized

The fires and vandalism, like what's shown here July 3 on walls at Saint Bonaventure Catholic Church in Calgary, Alberta, began after the discovery of unmarked graves in schools that were run mostly by the Catholic church

Firefighters inspect damage July 1 after fire destroyed the St. Jean Baptiste Parish Church in Morinville, Alberta

On June 21, the Sacred Heart Church on Penticton Indian Band land and St. Gregory's Catholic Church on the Osoyoos Indian Band land, which are 25 miles apart, burned down within two hours of each other, according to the RCMP.

Five days later, St. Ann's Catholic Church on Upper Similkameen Indian Band land and the Chopaka Catholic Church on Lower Similkameen Indian Band land were torched within two hours of each other.

The same night, the century-old abandoned St. Paul's Anglican Church on Gitwangak First Nations land was set on fire, but the damage was minimal, according to the RCMP.

On June 28 and June 30, a Catholic church on Siksika First Nation land near Calgary was set ablaze and the St. Jean Baptiste Parish Church in Morinville, Alberta, burned to the ground, the RCMP said.

The blazes at Catholic churches continued in early July, including two on July 1, one on July 2 and one on July 4.

The July 2 blaze brought down the St. Columba Anglican Church in Tofino, British Columbia, which RCMP spokesperson Sgt. Chris Manseau said in a statement is a church that's been in the community for over 100 years and 'is of significant historical importance.'

Father Fernando Genogaling stands in front of paint on the walls at St. Luke's Catholic Church on July 3 in Calgary, Alberta

The community church is seen five years before the establishment of the Kuper Island Indian Residential School, which according to the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation operated from 1890-1975, on Penelakut Island, formerly Kuper Island, near Chemainus, British Columbia

Shoes placed on the steps of the Manitoba Legislature on July 2 to honor hundreds of children recently discovered in unmarked graves on the sites of several former residential schools across Canada. The discovery of unmarked graves coincided with a series of fires in churches across the country

In addition to the churches set on fire, many have been desecrated or vandalized

This is the aftermath of the fire that destroyed the Roman Catholic St. Jean Baptiste Parish Church in Morinville, Alberta

'Investigators are aware of the recent church fires occurring around the province, and will share information with them to determine if there is a link, however at this time there is nothing indicating so,' he said.

The RCMP are investigating two more fires at Catholic churches in Canada as 'suspicious,' after four churches on tribal lands burned down within one week.

There were multiple acts of vandalism and a small fire to a church in Alberta on July 9. A youth, whose age and name weren't released, was arrested, police said.

That's been the only arrest made in connection with any of the fires or vandalism that's plagued Canadian churches over the last month.

Countersignal.com estimates there have been about 45 acts of arson or vandalism to Canadian Christian churches or places of worship since June.

Following the the discoveries of the graves, Preston McBride, a Dartmouth College scholar, predicts as 40,000 native children may have died from poor care at government-run boarding schools.

Siding is stripped off an exterior wall June 30 after a fire at St. Kateri Tekakwitha Church in Indian Brook, Nova Scotia

Firefighters worked to the extinguish the blaze at the Roman Catholic St. Jean Baptiste Parish Church in Morinville, Alberta, but weren't able to save it

Countersignal.com estimates there have been about 45 acts of arson or vandalism to Canadian Christian churches or places of worship since June, including what's seen here on Saint Mary's Catholic Cathedral in Calgary

Earlier this month, a violent mob celebrated 'tearing this b**ch down' as they toppled and desecrated statues of Britain's Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II during Canada protests sparked by the discovery of mass graves of Indigenous schoolchildren.

The bronze sculptures of Britain's current monarch and her great-great grandmother in Winnipeg were hauled down, daubed with red paint and even appeared to have been strangled with Mohawk flags on July 1.

With no police to be seen anywhere, protesters in orange led by members of the left-wing anti-colonial 'Idle No More' group campaigning for Canada Day to be cancelled, tied ropes to the necks of the statues and ripped them to the ground to chants of 'no to genocide' and 'bring her down' amid fury over the deaths of 1,000 Indigenous children found buried in mass graves this month.

A statue of Queen Victoria was torn down and daubed in red paint on Canada Day in Winnipeg, Manitoba, as a backlash over the country's colonial history ramps up

Queen Elizabeth's statue was also toppled amid growing anger in Canada over the treatment of its Indigenous communities over hundreds of years

Canada will rename street named after Scottish politician who delayed abolition of slavery Canada will rename a street named after a Scottish politician who delayed the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade. Toronto city council has voted to remove Henry Dundas' name from a street and other public infrastructure such as Dundas Station and Yonge-Dundas Square. Dundas was an 18th-century Scottish politician who delayed Britains abolition of slavery by 15 years. Toronto Mayor John Tory said Dundas never set foot in Canada and insisted the city should not celebrate his legacy. A vote among city councilors has now given the plan official backing and Dundas name will now be stripped from signs. Mayor Tory said: 'This recommendation is the right decision in our continuous path to building a Toronto that is inclusive, equitable and reflects the values of its diverse members. 'We acknowledge that this is just the first of many steps to come, but this a genuine step in the right direction of who we are and what we can be. The names of our public streets, parks, and monuments are a reflection of our values as Torontonians.' The city will hold a public consultation to find a new name for the street. As first lord of the admiralty, Dundas deliberately prolonged slavery to protect the elite in the 1800s - forcing about 630,000 slaves to wait more than a decade for their freedom. Dundas, the first Viscount Melville, died in 1811. He was a controversial figure during his own lifetime, a defender of the British Empire and its expansion. He also faced accusations concerning the misappropriation of public money. The 10th Viscount Melville, Bobby Dundas, had earlier urged people to delve deeper into his ancestors history. He said: 'Were talking about a plaque thats going to go on the side of a bit of stone. This is a very controversial period in Scottish history and there needs to be wider information available. 'From what I understand, Henry Dundas was an abolitionist. He provided the word gradual so it would get through legislation and became law, and without that, it wouldnt have passed for decades. 'You need to judge it by what was going on back then.' Advertisement

Sharing footage of Victoria's statue coming down, self-styled 'Land Defender' Waabishkaa Ma'iingan Naakshig, tweeted: 'I helped tear the b**ch down'.

The statue was then covered in red paint with a message that read 'we were children once. Bring them home'.

A smaller statue of Elizabeth was also toppled in the same area, with protesters insisting both royals are the face of Canada's colonial history.

Some 1,500 miles west, a statue of Captain James Cook - the first Briton to land in British Columbia - was also pulled down in the capital city of Victoria before being hurled into the harbor in scenes reminiscent of the destruction of the Edward Colston statue last year in Bristol. Cook's statue was replaced by a red wooden dress - a colour and symbol for Indigenous people in Canada with the plinth vandalised with 'colonizer'.

U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson condemned the toppling of statues of the Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II in Canada.

Mr Johnson's spokesman said: 'We obviously condemn any defacing of statues of the Queen', adding: 'Our thoughts are with Canada's Indigenous community following these tragic discoveries and we follow these issues closely and continue to engage with the government of Canada with Indigenous matters.'

The attacks have been spearheaded by Idle No More, a left-wing organization that describes itself as 'a grassroots advocacy group, opposing unilateral & colonial legislation' in Canada, but also campaigns on global issues including for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to sanction Israel over its treatment of Palestinians.

Trudeau said recently he was 'terribly saddened' by the discovery at Marieval Indian Residential School, and told Indigenous people that 'the hurt and the trauma that you feel is Canada's responsibility to bear.'

But it appears protesters are also focused on damaging monuments of British queens, even though the country became an independent state in 1867 while retaining its link to the Royal Family.

The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops said in a June 29 statement that the pope will meet separately at the Vatican with the representatives of Canadas three biggest Indigenous groups  the First Nations, the Metis and the Inuit - in December.

'Pope Francis is deeply committed to hearing directly from Indigenous Peoples, expressing his heartfelt closeness, addressing the impact of colonization and the role of the Church in the residential school system,' bishops said in their statement.

The U.S. has already launched a federal investigation.

U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland said in a June 22 memo that her department will prepare a report that identifies federal boarding school facilities, map out the locations of known and possible student burial sites, and learn the identities and tribal affiliations of the children.

In her memo, Haaland - a member of the Laguna Pueblo tribe and first Native American cabinet secretary - said most Indigenous parents could not visit their children at these schools, where some were abused, killed and buried in unmarked graves.
Ahead of his 2022 gubernatorial campaign, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is selling beer koozies and t-shirts mocking Dr. Anthony Fauci's coronavirus restrictions.

Available on DeSantis's campaign website for $12, are red koozies imprinted with the words: 'How the hell am I going to be able to drink a beer with a mask on?' along with blue koozies imprinted with the words: 'Don't Fauci my Florida.'

The phrase is a jab at the Chief White House medical adviser, who has become the butt of jokes for Republicans due to his preventative approach to the deadly coronavirus and mask-wearing.

Ahead of his 2022 gubernatorial campaign, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (pictured) is selling beer koozies and T-shirts mocking Dr. Anthony Fauci's coronavirus restrictions.

Available on DeSantis's campaign website for $12, are blue koozies imprinted with the words: 'Don't Fauci my Florida.'

Also available on the website are red koozies imprinted with the words: 'How the hell am I going to be able to drink a beer with a mask on?'

The new merchandise was announced on DaSantis' campaign's 'Team DeSantis' Twitter account Monday.

'NEW TODAY: Our team just dropped EXCLUSIVE merchandise on our brand-new @WINRED storefront.' the tweet read. 'Trust us...You don't want to miss out on this'

Also available on the website are flags resembling former President Trump's campaign paraphernalia that say 'Keep Florida Free.'

DeSantis and Fauci have continuously disputed over the coronavirus pandemic, with the governor enthusiastically opposing Fauci's stance on social distancing, lockdowns and mask-wearing.

Their feud dates back to when Fauci publicly criticized DeSantis for opening up Florida's economy ahead of schedule last year.

'When you're dealing with community spread, and you have the kind of congregate setting where people get together, particularly without masks, you're really asking for trouble,' Fauci said at the time on ABC's 'Good Morning America.' 'Now's the time actually to double down a bit, and I don't mean close.'

As Covid swept the U.S. in early 2020, DeSantis continued to keep Florida beaches open, rejecting mask ordinances and all restrictions on businesses in May.

The phrase is a jab at the Chief White House medical adviser, Dr. Anthony Fauci (pictured) who has become the butt of jokes for Republicans due to his preventative approach to the deadly coronavirus and mask-wearing

The new merchandise was announced on DaSantis' campaign's 'Team DeSantis' Twitter account Monday

As political leaders across the spectrum embraced mask-wearing amid growing evidence of their effectiveness, DeSantis continued to avoid statewide mask requirements.

Since Trump left office in January, DeSantis is viewed as a potential favorite among Republicans to be the GOP presidential nominee in 2024.

Last week, the seven-day rolling average of daily new COVID-19 cases was up 47 percent from two weeks ago, and hospitalizations were up 11 percent, according to a DailyMail.com analysis of U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data.

Around 93 percent of COVID-19 cases in recent days have occurred in counties with vaccination rates of less than 40 percent, CDC director Dr. Rochelle Walensky told a media briefing on Thursday.

According to CDC data updated Tuesday evening, the Delta variant, also known as B.1.617.2, makes up 51.7 per cent of all new infections.

Health officials say that the fast-spreading Delta variant first identified in India is racing through areas with low vaccination rates, eroding gains made in beating back the virus.
A developer's advertisement touting a 'Zoom zone' in new homes has divided opinion on social media.

The ad for a four-bedroom house with two bathrooms in the Hunter Valley, a two-hour drive north of Sydney, is certainly gaining plenty of attention on Twitter.

Building group Bellriver Homes is advertising house and land packages with a feature which would not have existed two years ago - a 'Zoom zone' for working from home.

A developer's advertisement touting a 'Zoom zone' in new homes has divided opinion on social media

Building group Bellriver Homes is advertising house and land packages with a feature which would not have existed two years ago - a 'Zoom zone' for working from home

Plans for a new house in the Hereford Hill Estate at Lochinvar, near Maitland, feature a 'Zoom zone' sandwiched between two bedrooms, making it smaller than a usual study or home office.

The space has its own door off the hallway with room for a small storage area and a desk near the window, as part of a $417,900 house building package.

Social media critic Erin Riley suggested the space was too small for anyone to carry out any work, describing it on Twitter as 'horrifying'.

'I think its too small to be called an actual room,' she said.

Rob Gill said the space would be too small for any meetings.

'Office? That's a closet,' he said.

Stephen Collins ridiculed the marketing phrase.

'Are "office" or "study" no longer words?'

But Steve Briant, the Hunter and Central Coast regional sales director for Bellriver Homes, said the 'Zoom zone' was a creative way of fitting in a space to take video calls in private in houses with insufficient space for an extra bedroom.

Erin Riley suggested the space was too small for anyone to carry out any work, describing it on Twitter as 'horrifying'. 'I think its too small to be called an actual room,' she said

'We want to introduce a bit of fun into the terminology of a space within a house,' he told Daily Mail Australia.

'They're not going to be holding these Zoom meetings at the dinner table with the Cheerios in front of them; it's a real-world problem we all have presenting ourselves, we've only got one opportunity to make a first impression.'

As for not calling it a study, Mr Briant said a home office traditionally took up a lot more space and this wasn't always possible on a smaller block of 300 square metres.

'As we make smaller and smaller blocks to build on, we have to make smaller and smaller accommodation for the use of spaces within a house,' he said.

On Twitter, Rachel Fenner saw the potential of a small space.

'OMG I need this. Is it soundproof?'

One man suggested it could be a space for some secret, online sexual activity outside of the bedroom, referencing a porn site.

'Onlyfans Nook,' he joked.

The ad for a four-bedroom house with two bathrooms in the Hunter Valley, north of Sydney, is certainly getting a lot of attention on Twitter

The McCloy Group, the land developer behind the project, has as its chairman controversial former Newcastle lord mayor Jeff McCloy.

In 2014, Mr McCloy admitted to the Independent Commission Against Corruption that he had made a $10,000 donation to a Liberal candidate in 2011, even though developers were banned from giving to political parties.

Mr McCloy resigned as lord mayor and fought unsuccessfully in the High Court to overturn 2009 laws on developer donations, introduced by former premier Nathan Rees.

Regional house prices are surging as more people working from home leaving Sydney.
The commander of Fort Rucker in Alabama has ordered that all military personnel who are not vaccinated wear face masks while on base - and anyone seen without a mask must present their vaccination card.

Major General David J. Francis, who has commanded the base since 2019, updated the rules on Tuesday.

Alabama is seeing a rise in COVID cases, and has the lowest vaccination rate in the country, jointly with Mississippi.

Only 33 per cent of the state's population fully vaccinated, according to John Hopkins University, and Alabama's positivity rate has increased to 4.8 per cent - its highest point since mid-May.

On Tuesday, Francis ordered that all 'unmasked, fully vaccinated servicemembers must be prepared to show proof of vaccination (CDC vaccination card or other medical documentation).'

Major General David J. Francis, the commander of Fort Rucker in Alabama, on Tuesday announced that all service members should expect to be asked to prove they were vaccinated against COVID-19, unless they were wearing a face mask

Fort Rucker in Alabama is home to around 20,000 members of the military, their family, and civilian staff

The base is home to 5,009 military members; 10,104 civilians; and 5,097 military family members.

Civilian employees cannot be asked about whether they have been vaccinated 'unless the supervisor has a reasonable basis to believe, based on reliable evidence, that the unmasked employee is not fully vaccinated.'

The guidance states: 'Any supervisor who suspects an unmasked civilian employee of not being fully vaccinated should first talk with their legal advisor and thoroughly document the basis for his/her belief before taking any action.'

Military personnel who are not vaccinated are banned from all bars, night clubs, dance clubs, spas, massage parlors, and tattoo parlors.

They must also quarantine for seven days if they travel more than 250 days from the base.

Service members are seen attending a mass vaccination site on February 9 at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam

Anyone who is found to be violating the rules will be disciplined, although Francis leaves the punishment up to supervisors.

'The provisions of this General Order are punitive,' he writes.

'Through this General Order, the following personnel may be subject to administrative or disciplinary action: all Service Members permanently or temporarily assigned to, attached to, or present on Fort Rucker, and non-DA civilians on the installation.'

He writes: 'Vaccinations remain an individual choice. All personnel are encouraged to take the vaccine to protect themselves from COVID and reduce the risk of transmission to others.'

Many vaccines are already compulsory for military members, depending on their post. Among the jabs widely mandated are the annual flu shot, polio, chicken pox, MMR and typhoid.

A service member is photographed getting his COVID-19 jab on February 9 at Pearl Harbor

On July 6 the Pentagon spokesman, John Kirby, said that the armed forces could make COVID-19 vaccines compulsory, once they have been approved by the FDA.

At present the approval is for emergency use.

He said that Defense Department senior leaders have had 'preliminary discussions' about making the COVID-19 vaccine mandatory.

'Right now it's being used under Emergency Use Authorization, which makes it a voluntary vaccine,' he said. '

Should the FDA approve it, then I am certain that Pentagon leadership will take a look at what our options are going forward, including the potential option of making mandatory.'

Army Times reported the Army's planning directive to prepare for full vaccinations from September, which came via an execute order sent to the force by Department of the Army Headquarters.

The Navy also recently told sailors to expect a mandatory vaccination program despite having the highest voluntary vaccine acceptance rate thus far.

Kirby said nearly 69 per cent of the force has received at least one dose of the vaccine, but demand for the vaccine is slowing.

As of July 6, 77 per cent of active duty sailors had received at least one dose, according to data shared by Army Lt. Gen. Ronald Place, director of the Defense Health Agency.

The Army is second with 70 per cent, followed by 61 per cent for the Air Force and 58 per cent for the Marine Corps.
Mark Zuckerberg has sold Facebook shares every business day since November, unloading 9.4 million shares worth $2.8 billion over the past year.

Zuckerberg, 37, has decreased his stake in Facebook from 28% at the time of the company's initial public offering in May 2012 to about 14%, according to Forbes.

He personally has taken home a total of around $2.1 billion from the sales his stock over the years and about $200 million after taxes from recent sales.

Forbes estimated Zuckerberg and his philanthropic organization the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative - which he started with his wife Priscilla Chan in 2015 - have sold more than 132 million Facebook shares worth nearly $15 billion since 2012.

Zuckerberg began regularly selling his Facebook stock in 2016 after he and his wife write a letter to their daughter Maxima pledging to give 99% of their shares over their lifetimes toward education and curing diseases.

The majority of the sales have come through Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, the philanthropic organization Mark Zuckerberg formed with his wife Priscilla Chan

Zuckerberg, 37, has decreased his stake in Facebook from 28% at the time of the company's initial public offering in May 2012 to about 14%

Facebook's stock prices have continued to soar despite its constant onset of scandals since its formation. Stocks in the company were trading at $347.63 when the market closed on Wednesday

A screenshot from the Security and Exchange Commission's website shows the daily filings Zuckerberg has made planning his stock sales

In 2018, the Facebook CEO sold a whopping $5.3 billion worth of shares mostly through CZI. Then, in November 2019, Zuckerberg suddenly stopped selling Facebook shares.

Zuckerberg, who is worth $127 billion making him the world's fifth richest person, resumed selling his stock on November 9, 2020.

Forbes reported that about 90% of those sales were made by CZI - through which an an estimated $11 billion in stocks have been sold in total. CZI's political advocacy arm sold all 103,000 of its remaining Facebook shares late last year.

A CZI spokesperson did not explain why the sales were suddenly paused and resumed but told Forbes that Zuckerberg's sales are conducted through pre-determined plans filed to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

The plans filed with the SEC are described by Forbes as being 'fairly common among executives with large stock positions' in companies - especially among other tech founders who took their companies public.

He personally has taken home a total of around $2.1 billion from the sales his stock over the years and about $200 million after taxes from recent sales

Jeff Bezos similarly sold about $500 million worth of Amazon shares while shrinking his stake in the company from 42% to to 24% in the first nine years after the company's IPO in 1997, Forbes reported.

Forbes reported that Bezos, 57, has sold almost $27 billion in Amazon shares before taxes, offloading about $10 billion in shares just last year.

Bezos, who stepped down from his position as Amazon's CEO in June, also gave his ex-wife MacKenzie Scott a quarter of his stake in the company during their headline-making divorce. His stake in Amazon now stands at just 10%.

According to Forbes, about 98% of Zuckerberg's estimated worth is still held in Facebook stock - along with his $200 million real estate portfolio.

Zuckerberg owns property in Palo Alto and Lake Tahoe, California, as well as Hawaii where he bought 700 acres on the island of Kauai for $100 million in 2014. In May, he bought another 600 acres for $53 million, Mansion Global reported.

Facebook's stock prices have continued to soar despite its constant onset of scandals since its formation. Stocks in the company were trading at $347.63 when the market closed on Wednesday.

Pilaa Beach, center, is pictured below hillside and ridge top land owned by Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, near Kilauea on the north shore of Kauai in Hawaii

The construction of Mark Zuckerberg's property line wall is pictured in 2016

A map shows that Mark Zuckerberg has doubled his Hawaii land holdings by snapping up almost 600 acres on Kauai from a non-profit for $53 million this year

Facebook stock prices closed at a record high of $355.64 on June 28 after a federal court threw out two antitrust lawsuits the Federal Trade Commission filed against the company.

Forbes noted that Facebook's current share price is up more than 800% from the company's 2012 IPO and that the company's stock price particularly spiked in the last year - doubling since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic last March.

On Wednesday, Zuckerberg said that the internet titan will pour $1 billion into programs for creators of popular content at the social network through 2022.

The announcement showed Facebook ramping up efforts to attract and keep creators as it competes with rival platforms such as TikTok, Clubhouse and Google-owned YouTube.

'We want to build the best platforms for millions of creators to make a living,' Zuckerberg said in a post at his Facebook page.

'So, we're creating new programs to invest over $1 billion to reward creators for great content they create on Facebook and Instagram through 2022.'

He promised more details soon.

Facebook and other online platforms provide artists and others with stages for making livelihoods from followings, while also enabling tech companies to rake in revenue from ads or e-commerce.

The move comes with Facebook and other Big Tech firms under heightened scrutiny by antitrust enforcers in the United States and elsewhere for their growing dominance of key economic sectors.
A fisherman has been left stunned after seeing an 'awesome' military submarine move within metres of his boat off Australia's eastern coastline.

Charter boat operator Greg Pearce was leading a fishing trip off Queensland's south-east coast when he saw the half-submerged submarine travelling back towards the mainland on Wednesday morning.

The sighting came as Australia began conducting large-scale military exercises with the US this week as part of the biannual Talisman Sabre 2021 war games.

Mr Pearce told Daily Mail Australia one of his passengers spotted the submarine cruise into view about 7km from land near Fraser Island.

The Tianwangxing vessel, is scheduled to arrive on Friday ahead of large-scale military exercises beginning this week

Charter boat operator Greg Pearce was leading a fishing trip off Queensland's south-east coast when he saw a half-submerged submarine travelling towards the mainland

'We were having a fish and one of the guys just said "that's a funny looking boat" and we watched as it approached,' he said.

'You could see a couple of crew moving around on deck up the top as well. They were doing their thing and we were doing ours.

'It was pretty awesome - just amazing to see.'

He said the submarine looked like it was doing a reconnaissance mission to familiarise the crew with the mainland before going back out into the Coral Sea.

Australian military activities with the US this week are being closely by a Chinese navy surveillance ship, which is making its way towards Queensland waters.

The Tianwangxing, which translates as 'Uranus', is scheduled to arrive in local waters on Friday to monitor large-scale Australia-US military exercises beginning this week, defence sources told the ABC.

Defence Minister Peter Dutton confirmed the Australian Defence Force (ADF) has been closely monitoring the Chinese military ship ahead of the war games.

In 2019 the same type 815 vessel was monitored by the ADF for the biennial Talisman Sabre games

'We are aware that the People's Liberation Army (Navy) general intelligence ship Tianwangxing is approaching Australia's east coast via the Torres Strait,' Mr Dutton said.

'We have been monitoring its approach to Australia for several days as part of Australia's broader surveillance effort.'

This is not the first time the Chinese ship has been spotted in Australian waters.
An Aldi shopper has captured the horrifying moment a gigantic rat begins to climb a supermarket shelf as oblivious customers continue to shop nearby.

The stomach-churning video has gone viral after it was posted on TikTok by a woman named Caity, now boasting more than two million views.

The gigantic rodent is seen climbing up the metal railing of an Aldi supermarket shelf passing large packs of bottled water and soft drink.

The stomach-churning video has since gone viral after it was uploaded to TikTok by a woman named Caity, boasting more than two million views

'Latest special at Aldi', Caity captioned the video, jokingly adding the mission impossible theme tune to compliment the rat's upward plight.

She told Daily Mail Australia an Aldi employee had attempted to catch the rodent after she alerted them to it.

The shopper said she left the store shortly after spotting the rat so wasn't sure if the worker had been successful.

Amused TikTok users were quick to share their thoughts in the comments of the video, with many poking fun at the furry intruder.

The gigantic rodent is seen climbing up the metal railing of an Aldi supermarket shelf while passing large packs of bottled water and soft drink

'He's just panic buying, leave him alone,' one woman commented.

'Is he trying to find toilet paper?,' another joked.

'Ratatouille working on his climbing skills,' a third said.

'He's just trying to get groceries for his family,' a fourth shared.

Daily Mail Australia contacted Aldi for comment.

It's understood the customer is encouraged to contact the Customer Service Department directly.
The head of security at Haiti's presidential palace is in custody in connection with President Jovenel Moise's assassinated on July 7 at his Port-au-Prince home, according to reports.

Dimitri Herard, who is the head of the General Security Unit of the National Palace, was questioned at the Inspector General's office on Wednesday, then transferred to a police station in Port-au-Prince, his associate Carl Martin told CNN.

Martin told CNN that he's coordinating Herard's legal defense team.

It's unclear what - if any- charges Herard is facing. Bed-ford Claude, a Haitian prosecutor, told The Washington Post, 'The justice [system] wants him to answer questions.'

Dimitri Herard, who is the head of the General Security Unit of the National Palace, was questioned at the Inspector General's office on Wednesday. It's unclear what he's charged with

Jovenal Moise, the president of Hait, was murdered in the early hours of July 7 at his home in the capital city, Port-au-Prince

Security forces inspect at the site after an attack at the residence of Haiti's President Jovenel Moise in Port-au-Prince, Haiti on July 7

Four high-ranking members of the presidents security detail are being held in isolation, according to the National Police, but they didn't say if Herard was one of the them.

The Haitian National Police announced the arrest of two more people in connection with the assassination, including Gilbert Dragon, a former police superintendent, and Reynaldo Corvington, who's accused of providing shelter to the assassins.

Corvington owns a private security company called Corvington Courier & Security Service, which he established in 1982, according to its website, which provides tips on how to survive a kidnapping.

During their arrests, Haitian National Police said in a statement that they found several bullet cartridges, an AR-15, two handguns and bulletproof vests in Dragon's home.

Christian Emmanuel Sanon, 63, who was arrested in Haiti, i accused of being an organizer of the assassination plot

And found eight rifles, three grenades and a vehicle when Corvington was arrested, according to police.

These arrests come just three days after Christian Emmanuel Sanon, 63, who's accused of organized the assignation plot, was taken into custody in Haiti.

Sanon, who was ties to Florida, entered the country last month on a private plane 'with the intention of taking the Haitian presidency,' the National Police said in a statement on Sunday.

Sanon allegedly recruited the Miami-based CTU Security, which is registered in Florida as the Counter Terrorist Unit Federal Academy LCC, and CTU Security recruited the Colombians who are accused of carrying out the hit.

CTU Security is owned by Venezuelan businessman Antonio Intriago, who's facing questions about his company's role in the killing.

Suspects in the assassination of Haiti's President Jovenel Moise are shown to the media in Port-au-Prince, Haiti on Thursday

Footage circulating online purportedly taken by a neighbour of the president shows men with rifles arriving outside the property

Weaponry, mobile phones, passports and other items are being shown to the media along with suspects in the assassination

On Wednesday evening, Leon Charles, head of the Haiti's National Police, accused Intriago of traveling to Haiti numerous times as part of the assassination plot and of signing a contract while there, but provided no other details and offered no evidence, The Associated Press reported.

Charles has said that CTU Security used its company credit card to buy 19 plane tickets from Bogota to Santo Domingo for the Colombian suspects allegedly involved in the killing.

Florida state records show Intriagos company has changed names in the past dozen years: CTU Security to CS Security Solutions to Counter Terrorist Unit Federal Academy LLC.

CTU lists two Miami addresses on its website. One is a shuttered warehouse with no signage. The other is a small office suite under a different name. A receptionist said the CTU owner stops by once a week to collect mail.

The Caribbean nation has spiraled into chaos since the middle-of-the-night murder, with at least three men now claiming to be its leader.

In an effort to quell tensions, President Joe Biden acknowledged the county's interim government's request for help and sent a delegation of US officials to Haiti on Sunday to help with security and aid in the investigation.

They will report back to Biden on their findings as US debates its response.

The group of Colombians and Haitian Americans suspected of carrying out the assassination have reportedly told investigators they were there to arrest Moise, not kill him.

'They probably were watching and waiting for the opportunity for them to do it,' said Investigative Judge Clement Noel, who was among the first to question the two Haitian-Americans among the 19 suspects detained so far.

Citing people who had spoken to some of the 19 suspects detained so far, the Miami Herald said they said their mission was to arrest Moise and take him to the presidential palace.
The Church of England could face a wave of compensation claims from former members of a cult-like movement which collapsed due to a sex scandal 25 years ago.

The Nine O'Clock Service, which was known as NOS, was an alternative Christian service and attracted young people to worship in Sheffield in the 1980s and 1990s.

The services were stopped in August 1995 after allegations of sexual and emotional abuse were made.

Now, according to the Times, former members of the group have approached the Church of England and dozens more are preparing to come forward with claims of abuse and exploitation.

Former members of the Nine O'Clock Service, which ran in Sheffield in the 80s and 90s (pictured), are considering legal action against the Church over claims of sexual abuse

The group was led by Chris Brain (pictured), a Christian rock musician who later admitted having 'improper sexual conduct with a number of women' after he had resigned his position

The rise and fall of the Nine O'Clock Service The Nine O'Clock Service was once seen as one of the Church's most successful experiments. At its height, it attracted up to 600 parishioners, a younger congregation the Church had previously thought was out of reach. Set up in the late 1980s by Christian rocker Chris Brain, NOS attracted those who wanted to worship in an Evangelical manner. Services featured a rave-like atmosphere, with loud music, flashing lights and abstract film loops projected onto large screens. The congregation grew to almost 600 members while resident at St Thomas' Church in Sheffield. Main themes included care for the planet and concern about its abuse, simple lifestyle and development of relationships with non-churched people. In 1988, David Lund who was the Bishop of Sheffield at the time sanctioned a move to a new site at Ponds Forge Rotunda in the city centre. Around the same time, Chris Brain underwent training to be ordained as priest in the Anglican Church. Leaders were impressed with the way the NOS was attracting younger parishioners and there was talk about expanding the services to other towns and cities. But in 1995, a number of complaints began to surface of the sexual abuse of women in the group by Chris Brain. After an investigation by the Diocese of Sheffield, the NOS was shut down and, although initially reluctant, Brain eventually resigned. Advertisement

The newspaper reports that the Right Rev Pete Wilcox, the Bishop of Sheffield, said the survivors had given 'harrowing testimonies' and their concerns were being taken 'very seriously'.

One former member of the group told the Times: 'People have been silent for a long time and it has caused them huge distress and trauma.

'The church told them at the time that they should keep silent, don't talk about it, the press will destroy you.

'I think after the MeToo movement people felt 'enough is enough' and they made a decision to come forward.'

The Times reports that some former members are considering legal action for damages because they claim church leaders had supported the Nine O'Clock Service because it was attracting younger congregations.

The Right Rev David Lunn, who the Bishop of Sheffield at the time of the scandal, said the hierarchy was not responsible for any wrongdoing.

Rt Rev Wilcox, who is the current Bishop of Sheffield, has urged potential victims to come forward.

He told the Times: 'We can confirm a group of survivors of the appalling conduct at the Nine O'Clock Service in the Diocese of Sheffield, which originally surfaced in the 1990s, have contacted the Church of England.

'Their concerns and harrowing testimonies are being taken very seriously. Support is being offered and the church is working closely with the statutory authorities.'

The NOS services were led by Chris Brain, a Christian rock musician whose ordination was fast-tracked by an excited Church of England hierarchy.

He met Dr George Carey, the Archbishop of Canterbury elect, in 1990, and had received financial backing from the Church for his services.

The Church saw the movement and its new style of service, which involved loud rave music, bikini clad dancers and light shows, as something that could potentially be rolled out across the country to attract younger congregations.

But the NOS services were shut down in 1995 after allegations were made of sexual abuse and exploitation.

Right Rev Pete Wilcox (left), the current Bishop of Sheffield, is urging victims of the scandal to come forward. NOS set up by Chris Brain, who met Dr George Carey (right) the Archbishop of Canterbury elect, in 1990, and had received financial backing from the Church for his services

Richard Scorer, a solicitor at Slater & Gordon acting for former NOS members, told the Times: 'The Church of England has a moral and legal responsibility to those harmed by abuse in the Nine O'Clock Service and it must honour that and ensure that the appalling harm suffered by victims is properly acknowledged.'

It had emerged after an investigation in 1995 that Brain had established a 'Homebase team' of 'postmodern nuns' whose duties included 'putting him to bed at night' as well as various housekeeping duties.

In the BBC documentary which aired in 1995, one member of the group said: 'He would talk about how we were discovering a postmodern definition of sexuality in the church.

Chris Brain was ordained by the Church and received financial backing for the new services

'It's just language  language covering up the fact of what was really going on: one bloke getting his rocks off.'

Chris Brain resigned his position in November 1995 and, in a BBC documentary which aired at the time, said 'for a priest in a church setting' he had been 'involved in improper sexual contact with a number of women'.

Later in 1995, Brain told the Mail On Sunday he had engaged in 'heavy petting' but said it was 'non-penetrative sex'.

The Diocese of Sheffield has said anyone who feels affected by this news and has information to provide can talk to someone independently by calling the helpline on 0300 303 1056.

In a statement, it added: 'We utterly deplore the abuse which occurred in this Diocese at that time, and remain committed both to working with survivors to address their needs, and to ensuring that the Diocese of Sheffield is a safe place for all.'
Carlton great Sergio Silvagni, who died aged 83 on Thursday morning, has been hailed as the man who embodies the spirit of the Blues, the AFL club's president Mark LoGiudice said.

Silvagni, a dual premiership player and two-time club champion, passed away surrounded by family.

His son Stephen - known throughout his career as SOS, standing for Son of Serge - was also a club great and named in the AFL team of the century.

His grandson Jack is a regular in the current Carlton side, while another grandson Ben was also previously on the Blues list.

Sergio Silvagni (pictured) passed away on the morning of July 15, aged 83. The club legend played, 239 VFL games for Carlton Blues, as well as captaining the club

Sergio was formally inducted as a club legend in 2016.

He played 239 VFL games for the Blues, captained the club and was also a long-serving committee member and selector.

'Sergio was and always will be a legendary Carlton person,' LoGiudice said in a statement.

Sergio (pictured right, with son Stephen, left) 'embodies the spirit of the Blues' according to club president Mark LoGiudice and his influence has spanned three generations

'He was such an important figure to many Carlton supporters growing up during the 1960s, particularly those who had migrated to Australia and could instantly identify with one of their heroes.

'He would go on to become one of our greatest ever players and his impact on the club will forever hold a significant place in our history books.

'On and off the field he embodied what it means to be a Carlton person and we offer our heartfelt condolences to his family.'

Son, Stephen was named alongside Sergio in Carlton's Team of the Century, and grandson, Jack (pictured), is in his sixth year at Carlton

Silvagni was a member of Carlton's Team of the Century, as was his son Stephen who played 312 games for the Blues.

Stephen's son Jack, a 72-gamer, is in his sixth year at Carlton while another son Ben didn't manage an AFL game in his two seasons on the club's list in 2019/20.
A man who let accused body-in-a-barrel murderer Zlatko Sikorsky sleep on his couch while at the centre of a police hunt will not stand trial.

Joseph Dean Geiger was charged with being an accessory to the murder of 16-year-old Brisbane schoolgirl Larissa Beilby, whose body was found in a barrel in the back of a ute on the Gold Coast in June 2018.

Sikorsky was accused of torturing and murdering the teenager, but died in November after being bashed in prison by another inmate.

Joseph Dean Geiger has had his charge dismissed of being an accessory to the murder of 16-year-old Brisbane schoolgirl Larissa Beilby (pictured) due to a lack of evidence

He was taken to Mr Geiger's apartment at Alexandra Headland on the Sunshine Coast on June 28 after being identified as the chief suspect

Officers launched a manhunt for Sikorsky, sharing his photograph and appealing for anyone with information to contact police.

But Mr Geiger says he didn't know the man introduced to him as 'John' was wanted by police, Brisbane Magistrates Court was told on Thursday.

While Sikorsky was asleep on the couch in the apartment, Mr Geiger's partner visited.

The couple got into an argument that came to the attention of the complex manager who recognised Sikorsky.

'He had seen the media reports, realised who Mr Sikorsky was and he went out and telephoned police,' defence barrister Angus Edwards said.

Mr Geiger was still oblivious as to his visitor's identity when he left the unit, returning later to discover a siege under way as Sikorsky refused to surrender for more than a day.

Larissa Beilby (pictured) whose body was found in a barrel in the back of a ute on the Gold Coast in June 2018

Ms Beilby's killer Zlatko Sikorsky (left) was murdered in jail by another inmate in November, 2020. Police released an image of his vehicle (right) in an effort to locate him for questioning in June, 2018.

After searching online to find out who Sikorsky was Mr Geiger returned to the complex to give police a key to his unit.

'That in a nutshell is the case against my client: That he was together with a man who was wanted for murder,' Mr Edwards said.

'There is no evidence at all that my client knew who this man was.

'There is no evidence at all that he had heard anything about the murder.

'In fact, the evidence, such as it is, is to the contrary.'

Mr Edwards said there was evidence of phone contact between Sikorsky and Mr Geiger, but only on the two days they spent time together.

But the prosecution claimed Mr Geiger must have known Sikorsky as a person wanted by police following multiple media reports.

Mr Edwards said there was evidence of phone contact between Sikorsky and Mr Geiger (pictured), but only on the two days they spent time together

Mr Geiger (left) walked free from court on Thursday after magistrate Michael Quinn dismissed the charge due to a lack of evidence

The Crown case relied on the statement of a woman - also charged with being an accessory after the teenager's killing - who told police Mr Geiger 'seemed familiar' with Sikorsky when he let the accused murderer into his unit, prosecutor Bimal Rout said.

However, there was no evidence Mr Geiger knew Sikorsky before that day, Mr Rout told the court.

After considering the evidence for hours magistrate Michael Quinn dismissed the charge against Mr Geiger on Thursday.

There was insufficient evidence for a jury to convict Mr Geiger of knowing Sikorsky may have committed murder and helping him escape punishment if the case proceeded to trial, Mr Quinn said.
Australians have been scammed a total of $851million in the last year alone as the Covid-19 pandemic forced many to stay at home and spend longer online.

The alarming figures were revealed in a report by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, with investment scams being the worst of all with a total of $328million lost.

Australians who found themselves 'catfished' or involved in other romance scams also lost a staggering $131million all up.

Australians have been scammed a total of $851million in the last year alone as the Covid-19 pandemic forced many to stay at home and spend longer online (stock image)

ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard said she expected the total amount of money lost to scams would be even worse than what's been calculated because most victims don't report it.

'Unfortunately scammers continue to become more sophisticated and last year used the Covid-19 pandemic to scam and take advantage of people from all walks of life during this crisis,' she said.

Out of the $850million lost, victims reported just $176million of this to Scamwatch.

Victoria which saw a mammoth 122-day lockdown last year suffered losses of $49million - double what the state lost in 2019.

'We saw scammers claiming the government restrictions meant people could not see items in person before purchase. This was a common ruse in vehicle sale and puppy scams, which both had higher reports and losses,' Ms Rickard said.

Fake SMS messages warned innocent Australians that a possible coronavirus case had been detected in their neighbourhood last year (pictured)

Phishing also peaked during the pandemic with more than 44,000 scams reported last year.

A recent survey by Finder of 1,066 Australians found that 47 per cent received a fraudulent message either via text or on the phone within the last 12 months.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST SCAMS Dont click on hyperlinks in text/social media messages or emails, even if it appears to come from a trusted source. Go directly to the website through your browser. For example, to reach the MyGov website type my.gov.au into your browser yourself. Never respond to unsolicited messages and calls that ask for personal or financial details, even if they claim to be a from a reputable organisation or government authority - just press delete or hang up. Source: Scamwatch Advertisement

The total amount of money lost to scams in Australia jumped by 23 per cent from 2019 to 2020.

Finder personal finance expert Kate Browne said a big problem was that only a third of victims were reporting the crimes.

'There was a surge in scammers impersonating government officials contacting people about financial benefit schemes,' she said.

'There was also a burst of superannuation scams after it was announced that Australians experiencing financial hardship could have early access to super.'

Thove above the age of 65 are more likely to get scammed according to the statistics and just under half of those who lost money last year did so through phone calls.

Another 22 per cent of scams were from fraudulent emails and 15 per cent were over texts.

Ms Brown has warned Australians not to click on anything that looks suspicious.

People are also urged to regularly check their bank account history to see if any unknown transactions were being made.

It's estimated more than $7million has already been scammed from Australians this year through frauds accessing home computers.
Government guidance for businesses ahead of so-called Freedom Day on Monday has been savaged as 'confusing chaos' over its wishy-washy recommendations and advice.

Much of the content of the new document is strikingly similar to the old lockdown legislation, except this time each part starts with the word 'consider'.

It has left business owners facing decisions on whether to impose Covid-secure measures it cannot enforce on staff or customers under law.

Most baffling is how the Prime Minister's promises to lift nearly all lockdown restrictions are so different to advice issued by the government.

Dr Roger Barker, policy director at the Institute of Directors, said: 'Like everybody else, businesses across the country having been awaiting ''freedom day'' with bated breath, but instead we have had a series of mixed messages and patchwork requirements from Government that have dampened that enthusiasm.

'Return to work or continue to stay at home. Throw away your masks or continue to wear them. Today's long-awaited guidance from Government has done little to dispel that confusion.

'Business leaders are understandably confused as to the legal status that this guidance has and are concerned about vulnerability under health and safety legislation, as well as the validity of their insurance.'

Vanita Parti, founder Of Blink Brow Bar, branded the guidance 'a mess'.

Businesses should consider keeping staff wearing masks indoors even after lockdown ends, according to new government Covid guidance. This sign appears in a Windsor barber's shop

Documents released online just days before the July 19 unlocking also suggest workplaces keep social distancing measures like plastic screens and back-to-back desks in a bid to placate nervous workers. This sign appears outside a restaurant in Windsor

People are told to return to the office, but not all at once just at some point over summer (stock)

She told Radio 4: 'It's all very confusing because we weren't allowed to open with the rest of retail last summer when lockdown eased and it made sense for us to do so because we follow the highest of hygiene protocol.

'Now they're saying actually they're merging the rest of you with retail and nobody needs to wear masks so we're scratching our heads a little bit but of course it makes absolute sense for us to wear masks, we are asking our therapists to continue to do so and we can only recommend that our customers do so.

'It puts them (staff) at risk and close contact services are close contact and of course beauty industry is very hygienic anyway but this is where masks really make sense.

'I think we will continue to wear masks as an industry because customers feel a lot more comfortable and so do our therapists but again I think it's a bit woolly, no-one has really looked at it in detail, slightly forgotten and it's easier just to lump us all together.'

Documents released online just days before the July 19 unlocking also suggest workplaces keep social distancing measures like plastic screens and back-to-back desks in a bid to placate nervous workers.

Businesses should consider keeping staff wearing masks indoors even after lockdown ends, according to new government Covid guidance released tonight.

Ventilating work places is also something to be considered by business workplaces (stock)

Spot the difference: old rules vs new guidance Old Rules Work from home unless it's unreasonable for you to do so

Provide adequate ventilation ... supplying fresh air to enclosed space.

Arrange work spaces to keep staff apart. Consider using barriers to separate people and introduce back-to-back or side-by-side working.

Face coverings are not mandatory in offices. However, they are required for customers and staff in some businesses that are customer facing.

When car sharing ... share the car with the same people each time and, where possible, only with members of your household or support bubble ... open windows for ventilation ... travel side by side or behind other people, rather than facing them, where seating arrangements allow facing away from each other New Guidance Come back to work, but gradually over the summer.

Maximise the supply of fresh air in your premises.

(Consider) reviewing layouts, using screens or barriers to separate people from each other, or using back-to-back or side-to-side working.

Consider encouraging the use of face coverings by workers particularly in indoor areas where they may come into contact with people they do not normally meet.

Encourage people travelling together in any one vehicle to, wherever possible: use fixed travel partners, do not sit face-to-face (and do) open windows Advertisement

They appear to suggest firms introduce 'fixed teams or partnering' to reduce the threat from coronavirus spreading through their workforce, - which has echoes of Covid bubbles in place in this year's full lockdown.

Table service in pubs and widespread working from home should also continue, the guidance suggests.

The guidance appears likely to set the scene for furious battles between employees and their staff in the days and weeks ahead about how often they can return to their primary workplace and how it should be set up.

It tells bosses: 'You should discuss a return to the workplace with workers, and trade unions to make working arrangements that meet both business and individual needs.

'Employers and others must continue to follow statutory health and safety requirements, conduct a risk assessment, and take reasonable steps to manage risks in their workplace or setting.'

Unions and employers hit out at the guidance with a warning that it is a 'recipe for chaos'.

The guidance is for 'offices, factories, plants, warehouses, labs and research facilities and similar indoor environments'.

On masks it notes their use will no longer be mandatory indoors in England. But it adds: Consider encouraging the use of face coverings by workers (for example through signage), particularly in indoor areas where they may come into contact with people they do not normally meet.

'This is especially important in enclosed and crowded spaces.

'When deciding whether you will ask workers or customers to wear a face covering, you would need to consider the reasonable adjustments needed for staff and clients with disabilities.

'You would also need to consider carefully how this fits with other obligations to workers and customers arising from the law on employment rights, health and safety and equality legislation.'

Pubs and restaurants are asked to consider maintaining table service, even though Monday was meant to herald the return of buying drinks at the bar. The guidance also calls for venues to consider the introduction of Covid passes, which would see people granted entry only if they have had both vaccine doses, or recently tested negative for the virus.

In addition, it states: 'You can also encourage the use of outside space where practical, in particular for higher risk activity such as exercise or when people are singing or raising their voices.'

Hugh Osmond, founder of the restaurant group Various Eateries, added: 'What was billed as Freedom Day is actually going to be Chaos Day.

'I can't see how anyone is supposed to know what to do... it's Wednesday and I can't tell you what we're going to do on Monday.'

A retail industry source added: 'You can't force people to wear a mask in a shop. You risk having staff being attacked for ruining someone else's Freedom Day.'

TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady said: 'We all want the economy to unlock as soon as possible, but these new back-to-work safety guidelines are a recipe for chaos and rising infections.

'They have been published without proper consultation with unions or employers, just two full working days before restrictions end on Monday.

'Instead of providing clear and consistent guidance on how to keep staff safe at work, the government is abandoning workers and employers.

'As infection rates surge, every employer must by law carry out a thorough risk assessment and take action to keep their workers safe.

'But these inadequate guidelines will leave many employers with more questions than answers and worried about their liability if they get things wrong.'

Ms O'Grady said wearing face coverings should remain a legal requirement on public transport and in shops.

Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick has urged the public to be 'cautious' when Covid lockdown restrictions are lifted in England on Monday.

Mr Jenrick said it would be up to businesses to decide whether they want customers to continue with precautions such as the wearing of face masks.

'Although we are in an immeasurably better position thanks to the vaccine programme, we are still very much living with the virus and we are going to be for a long time, so we do need to exercise caution,' he told Sky News.

'We are asking every member of the public to be cautious, to come to sensible judgments about, for example, the wearing of masks in close contact in indoor spaces and to businesses as well to consider whether they need to apply those restrictions.

'In my experience, having talked to hundreds of businesses over the course of the last year, this is the sort of discretion they want reflecting the fact that businesses are in a very different situation and a one-size-fits-all approach backed by the force of the law isn't sensible when we are moving into a period now where, in all likelihood, we are going to be living with the virus for a long time.'
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Animal rights activists have set up a blockade at what they claim is the only UK factory to produce McDonald's beef burger patties in a bid to persuade the fast food giant to commit to a plant-based menu.

Dozens protestors set up a blockade outside the OSI Food Solutions factory in Scunthorpe last night.

The demonstrators, who have said they will stay 'as long as it takes', are using trucks, tents, bamboo structures and a roof occupation to stop the facility from distributing burgers and urge them to switch to a plant-based menu.

Professor Joy Carter, Emeritus Professor of Geochemistry and Health, University of Winchester said: 'There is no second chance in averting climate breakdown  we have just one opportunity to get this right.

Animal rights activists from the group Animal Rebellion have set up a blockade at what they claim is the only UK factory to produce McDonald's beef burger patties in a bid to persuade the fast food giant to commit to a plant-based menu by 2025

This is the latest in string of demonstrations by Animal Rebellion to target McDonalds and urge the switch to plant-based food

Animal Rebellion, which claims factory produces 3m burgers a day, urges McDonald's to become fully plant-based by 2025

The same group of protesters targeted McDonald's distribution centres across the country two months ago in a similar way

'We need to radically change our food system and it must start with the meat and dairy industry. Until we make large-scale systemic changes and move towards a plant-based food system, we will continue to destroy our planet.'

According to an online brochure, OSI Food Solutions UK is 'the exclusive supplier of red meat products to McDonald's Restaurants in the UK.'

Animal Rebellion, which claims the factory produces three million burgers a day, is demanding that McDonald's becomes fully plant-based by 2025.

They have said that they will end the blockade if McDonald's makes the first step towards this goal by committing to becoming 20 per cent plant-based within 1 year.

Rose Patterson, a spokesperson for Animal Rebellion, said: 'We're living in a time where massive change is possible, but our window to act on the climate crisis is closing quickly.

The group have used tents, bamboo barricades and what they call a 'roof occupation' as part of their demonstration today

Police say surrounding roads are not affected as the factory has its own entrance which is where the protesters are camped

The Animal Rebellion protesters set up overnight and say they will stay outside the factory 'as long as it takes'

Humberside police are on scene and say they are liaising with all parties involved as the demonstration unfolds this morning

Humberside police have issued a statement saying they are liaising with both sides involved and are monitoring the protest

Police have said officers 'are in attendance in order to allow people to go about their lawful business and to protect the right of individuals to take part and exercise their right to peaceful protest' as they monitor the protest activity in Scunthorpe

A protester pictured on top of a purpose-built 'Happy Meal' box which has been installed outside the factory in Scunthorpe

Two Animal Rebellion protesters camp up on a truck which says 'McMurder' outside the factory in Scuthorpe this morning

'The meat and dairy industries are responsible for 80-90% of Amazon deforestation, at least 18% of global emissions, and for exploiting and killing billions of animals every year.

'To save ourselves and the future of our children, we must start transitioning towards a plant-based food system.'

The group - which had been planning the blockade for 'months' - is an offshoot of Extinction Rebellion, which blocked access to three newspaper printing presses in September last year.

This protest comes after the group shut down four McDonald's distribution centres two months ago to call out the meat and dairy industries for their role in the climate and ecological emergency causing economic disruption to McDonald's supply chain.

Up to 100 Animal Rebellion demonstrators blocked the entrances to distribution sites in Hemel Hempstead, Basingstoke, Coventry and Greater Manchester using trucks and shackling themselves to bamboo structures in May this year.

The action resulted in 14 arrests of Animal Rebellion activists and impacted the restaurant chain's stock levels.

The group shared pictures of themselves hanging banners and setting up bamboo structures overnight outside the factory

This is the latest in a series of disruptive protests by the group targeting McDonalds urging them to serve plant-based food

McDonalds have yet to comment on whether the demonstration will impact their supply of beef burgers across the country

The group - which is an offshoot of Extinction Rebellion - has said it will stay on site (pictured) 'for as long as it takes'

Pictures from the scene show police are in attendance at today's demonstration and Humberside Police have said they are liaising with all parties involved 'to address concerns'.

A statement said: 'Officers from Humberside Police are currently deployed at a food distribution centre on Luneburg Way in Scunthorpe following reports of a demonstration of around 50 people at the entrance to a food distribution centre.

'Officers are in attendance in order to allow people to go about their lawful business and to protect the right of individuals to take part and exercise their right to peaceful protest.

'The roads in and around the industrial estate remain unaffected as the demonstration is at the entrance to one premise.

'We are liaising with representatives from all sides to address concerns. We are committed to fulfilling our duty to protect the human rights of all the groups and individuals with an interest in this situation.'

McDonalds has been contacted for comment.
A group of university students from Sydney's east have been slapped with heavy fines by cops after they were caught renting a holiday house amid lockdown.

The eight teenagers - aged between 18 and 19 - rented the house at Catalina near Batemans Bay on the NSW coast.

Officers attended the property about 3.15pm on Wednesday and found the students had breached the public health order and they were each fined $1,000 and directed to leave.

They had travelled from their homes in Bondi, Edgecliff, Bellvue Hill, Balgowlah Heights, and Dover Heights and were staying at the house for the holidays before returning to university.

The latest outbreak began in the wealthy suburbs in mid-June and more than 900 cases having since emerged, with many now in the city's south-west.

The group of university students had rented a holiday house at Catalina (pictured) near Batemans Bay on the NSW coast

The teenagers were each given a $1,000 fine and told to return to their homes (stock image)

Deputy Commissioner Mick Willing of Regional NSW Field Operations said the NSW community had assisted in enforcing the health directions.

'This case really shows that Sydneysiders have nowhere to hide in regional areas at the moment,' Deputy Commissioner Willing said.

'If you live in Greater Sydney and are thinking of travelling in contravention of the public health order, you should be aware that if police don't pull you over proactively, the community will let us know you're there,' he said.

'Regional people are actively working with police to protect themselves and their loved ones, which is so important given the incredibly contagious nature of the Delta strain.'

In another incident, police stopped a 22-year-old Blacktown woman and 39-year-old Mt Druitt man at Dean Park early on Wednesday morning and they were issued fines and told to return to their homes.

The pair were stopped again later that day at Quakers Hill about 7.30pm - and police allege they had spent the day travelling to nine suburbs spanning the CBD to Richmond.

They allegedly visited a fast-food outlet and a hotel with two other people.

The duo were charged with failing to comply with Covid directions and are set to front court in August.

More than 200 public health order infringement notices were issued on Wednesday with almost half being $200 fines for not wearing a face mask.

The NSW premier says the number of new local COVID-19 infections is stabilising but warned the numbers are likely to keep bouncing around.

NSW recorded 65 new local COVID-19 cases in the 24 hours to 8pm on Wednesday, but Gladys Berejiklian warned the number of infected people in the community was yet to decline, despite stay-at-home orders.

Police issued more than 200 lockdown infringement notices on Wednesday (pictured: officers patrol in Sydney's east in July)

Of the new cases, at least 35 people were out in the community for part or all of their infectious period - a number that authorities want to drive down to zero.

'It has been a stable number, it hasn't grown ... (but) unless it comes down, we can't get out of lockdown,' Ms Berejiklian told reporters.

Five million NSW residents will endure at least another fortnight of lockdown after a run of high daily coronavirus numbers forced the state government on Wednesday to extend stay-at-home measures at least until July 30.
A furious boatman on the Isles of Scilly has denied claims that he tried to bash Wally the Walrus with an oar in front of horrified holidaymakers.

James Stedeford who runs boat trips taking tourists to view wildlife is accused of reacting in anger after his empty dinghy was tipped over by the 2,000lb walrus.

A witness said that she saw him heading out in another boat and hitting the creature with an oar when he surfaced in St Mary's harbour.

She claimed that holidaymakers shouted at him to stop, and that she heard him yell: 'The sooner that thing is shot, the better'.

Speaking to MailOnline today, Mr Stedeford denied making the comment and insisted that he had only fended the walrus away with an oar to stop him flipping over the boat he was in, and called allegations he had attacked Wally were 'completely untrue'.

Mr Stedeford said: 'It just flipped my boat over with the engine on so I went to recover it in the harbour.

'Whilst I was there it tried to board the boat I was on, so I fended it off with the oar.

This is the shocking moment a furious boatman on the Isles of Scilly allegedly used an oar to bash Wally the Walrus in front of horrified holidaymakers

James Stedeford, who runs boat trips taking tourists to view wildlife, is said to have reacted in anger after his dinghy was tipped over by the 2,000lb sea creature

Speaking to MailOnline today, Mr Stedeford denied making the comment and insisted that he had only fended the walrus away with an oar to stop him flipping over the boat he was in, and called allegations he had attacked Wally were 'completely untrue'

A witness claimed that she saw Mr Stedeford heading out in another boat and hitting Wally with an oar when he surfaced

Holidaymakers allegedly shouted at him to stop as he yelled: 'The sooner that thing is shot, the better'

'It's a ton and a quarter beast and it just flips boats over very easily. It's huge and it tried to flip my boat over so needless to say I fended it off with my oar and that is all that happened.

'I didn't even touch it, but it was threatening me and coming up. It doesn't mean any harm but it was trying to come on to my boat with me in it. It would have flipped the boat over and I would have landed up in the water with a walrus which is not a good thing.'

He added that it was 'a complete lie' to suggest that he had made any comment about wanting Wally to be shot.

But the witness called Charlotte who watched the incident unfold with her family said: 'It was just an awful thing to do. No animal should be treated like that.

'He waited for Wally to come up for breath and then he hit him in the water with the oar. There was such anger and hatred in his face. One of the adults in my family group was in tears when she saw what he was doing.

'His actions were so scary. It is a tiny community here and Mr Stedeford is well known. The ironic thing is that he has a business taking people out on wildlife safaris to see puffins and seals.'

The arctic walrus has been delighting many onlookers who have nicknamed him Wally since he arrived in the Isles of Scilly last month. A purpose-built pontoon has been made for him in a bid to reduce damage he is causing and encourage him to leave.

But the giant creature has also upset boat owners by causing thousands of pounds of damage while trying to clamber on board vessels to relax.

Several small boats have been sunk or capsized by his antics while a number of inflatable dinghies have been punctured by his tusks.

Mr Stedeford said: 'It just flipped my boat over with the engine on so I went to recover it in the harbour. Whilst I was there it tried to board the boat I was on, so I fended it off with the oar'

The arctic walrus has been delighting many onlookers who have nicknamed him Wally since he arrived in the Isles of Scilly last month

Several small pleasure and commercial boats have been sunk or capsized by his antics while inflatable dinghies have been punctured by his tusks

It is believed that Wally arrived in the Isles of Scilly after travelling 2,500 miles along the coast of western Europe, including Spain, Wales and Cornwall over the last four months

Harbour authorities and wildlife volunteers have now brought in a pontoon where Wally can relax undisturbed and cause less trouble before he heads off to more familiar Arctic waters.

They have urged people not to approach Wally, as he is a protected species and it is a potential criminal offence to disturb him.

Charlotte, 28, who lives in London said she saw the confrontation between Mr Stedeford and Wally at around 4pm on Saturday, June 26.

She said: 'Wally keeps trying to climb on board boats so he can bask in the sun  but the problem is he is so big that he can easily tip them over. He doesn't know his own strength.

'We had gone to St Mary's to pick up a bit of shopping and we saw Wally was trying to climb on lots of different boats.

'He uses his tusks to climb over them and then gets his flipper over the side and tries to climb in.

'We saw him try to get in this little tender which I think belonged to Mr Stedeford, but it was a tippy little boat and it just flipped over.

But the giant creature has also upset boat owners by causing thousands of pounds of damage while trying to clamber on board vessels to relax

Harbour authorities and wildlife volunteers have now brought in a pontoon where Wally can relax undisturbed and cause less trouble before he heads off to more familiar Arctic waters

'Mr Stedeford was at the harbour and saw what happened. Apparently the boat had a new engine worth a few thousands pounds, so he was very angry.

'Within minutes he had gone out in another boat and was looking for the walrus. He followed him out into the harbour and was waiting for him to surface for breath.

'When he saw him, he seemed to slap him in the water with the oar. He only did it once.

'There were lots of people on the quay who were all screaming at him, shouting things like, 'No, don't hit him'. Everyone was watching in shock and horror.

'We were all screaming as well, saying: 'Don't do it'. But he did it anyway, and I heard him say: 'As soon as that thing is shot, the better'.

'I am pretty sure he hit Wally. He waited for him to surface and went for him. Then he towed his flipped over boat back to the pontoon and sorted it out.

'It could have done Wally some damage, but we saw him swimming away afterwards. I don't know whether he was hurt at all.'

Charlotte added: 'Wally is not very popular with the locals because of the damage he has done, although holidaymakers adore him.

'He might be affecting people's livelihoods, but as far as I know he has not actually hurt anyone.'

Mr Stedeford who has operated commercial boats for more than 20 years set up his charter firm Falcon Boating on the Isles of Scilly in June 2014.

His boat called The Falcon is licensed to carry 12 passengers and can reach speeds of 35 knots and is available for 'luxury private charter' for 150 an hour.

Experts have warned people to stay at least 50m to 100m away from him and say he should be gently pushed away with an oar if he gets too close to a vessel

It is believed that Wally arrived in the Isles of Scilly after travelling 2,500 miles along the coast of western Europe, including Spain, Wales and Cornwall over the last four months

Organisations involved in trying to help Wally include British Divers Marine Life Rescue, the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust, the Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust and the St Mary's Harbour Team

Mr Stedeford states on his website: 'There are plenty of amazing seabirds, seal colonies and other local wildlife to enjoy, as well intriguing rock formations to watch out for.'

It is believed that Wally arrived in the Isles of Scilly after travelling 2,500 miles along the coast of western Europe, including Spain, Wales and Cornwall over the last four months.

Experts have warned people to stay at least 50m to 100m away from him and say he should be gently pushed away with an oar if he gets too close to a vessel.

Organisations involved in trying to help Wally include British Divers Marine Life Rescue, the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust, the Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust and the St Mary's Harbour Team.

The groups said in a statement that the pontoon for Wally had been constructed to give him a place 'to rest, gain strength and ultimately leave Scilly to continue his journey home'.

They added: 'He will only be able to do so if he has the energy to make the 1,990-mile journey. This means he needs to feed up ... and rest peacefully without interruption.

'If he is continually distracted, he will not gain the weight and energy for a long journey home and will likely remain in Scilly longer.'

The statement added: 'He has not shown any aggressive behaviour, but he is young and still a very large, wild animal.'
South Australia is bringing in sweeping new restrictions amid fears three Sydney removalists may have spread Covid through the state.

The new regulations will be enforced from midnight on Thursday despite no new community Covid cases having been detected in South Australia.

The two new SA cases announced on Thursday were both in hotel quarantine.

But Premier Steven Marshall announced the crackdown as a 'pre-emptive measure', he said, in a bid to get ahead of the disease before it could spread.

South Australia is bringing in sweeping new restrictions amid fears three Sydney removalists may have spread Covid through the state. Seen here are two women wearing masks in Adelaide Airport

The new regulations will come in from midnight on Thursday despite no new community Covid cases having been detected in South Australia. Customers at an Adelaide bottle shop are pictured here with one wearing a mask

Under the new rules, masks will be required in aged care facilities and at locations like hairdressers.

Private gatherings will be limited to just 150 people while singing, dancing and shisha have also been banned.

Customer numbers in licensed premises will also be restricted to just 50 per cent capacity.

Earlier in the week the state also announced truck and freight drivers coming into SA will now need to undergo mandatory testing.

Under the new rules, masks will be required in aged care facilities and at locations like hairdressers. Seen here is a masked fan at an Adelaide Thunderbirds netball game

Premier Steven Marshall (pictured) announced the crackdown as a 'pre-emptive measure', he said, in a bid to get ahead of the disease before it could spread

Mr Marshall added: 'The deteriorating situation around the country is a major wakeup call for South Australia.

'We don't want lockdowns here so we're asking South Australian to co-operate.

'We are very concerned about the transmission which occurred at the MCG so we need to take action to protect SA.'

It follows a worrying trail of exposure sites left by an infected team of removalists who travelled from Sydney to Melbourne and then on to Adelaide, spreading the disease in their wake.

The removalist crew set off from Covid-ravaged western Sydney on July 8 stopping at a Hungry Jacks and a Caltex service station in Kalkallo before dropping off a load of furniture to a home in Craigieburn on Melbourne's northern outskirts.

The infected removalists travelled to Maribyrnong in Melbourne's west to the third floor of the Ariele Apartments (pictured) and picked up a set of furniture bound for Adelaide

They then travelled to Maribyrnong in Melbourne's west to the third floor of the Ariele Apartments and picked up a set of furniture bound for Adelaide.

Later that evening on July 8, the removalists left Melbourne and travelled to Ballan, near Ballarat where they visited a Mobil service station and a McDonald's for food and one had a shower.

The following morning, on July 9, they headed to McLaren Vale in Adelaide, where one of the crew was informed by NSW Health that they were a primary close contact of another positive case back in Sydney.

All three crew members then headed back to Sydney on July 10, but stopped off at a Shell service station and the adjoining Coolabah Tree cafe in Tailem Bend, South Australia, and a Hungry Jack's in Marulan, NSW.

Attempts to trace fellow customers at the Tailem Bend location have been delayed by a lack of QR code sign-ins. Despite police finding 76 credit card receipts, just 25 people had checked-in properly.

At least 118 people may have come into close contact with the removalists at the South Australian service station and cafe. All are now in isolation and have tested negative. Seen here is a testing facility in Adelaide

Contact tracers now believe at least 118 people may have come into close contact with the removalists at the service station and cafe. All are now in isolation and have tested negative.

SA Police Commissioner Grant Stevens warned: 'I need people to understand just how serious this is and how close we are to imposing further restrictions on the community of South Australia.'

Later that day one of the crew returned a positive test. Then on July 11, a second crew member was also confirmed to be infected.

Victoria Health has been desperately trying to map out all the possible locations that may have been exposed to the disease by the removalists, but their efforts have been hampered.

Victoria's Covid response commander Jeroen Weimar (pictured) said the information the three removalists gave to contact tracers was 'not as crisp and clear and consistent'

The state's Covid response commander Jeroen Weimar said the information the trio gave to contact tracers was 'not as crisp and clear and consistent' as it should be, with two not believed to speak English.

'I don't have a complete accurate track in terms of exactly where they stayed,' Mr Weimar said.

'My understanding at this point in time is that they stayed in their cab as part of their protocols.

'Any other locations they may have stopped at we're still trying to track down definitively.'

South Australia currently has 16 active cases of Covid and experts are still trying to trace the cause of one patient who may have contracted the virus from another guest who was staying at the same quarantine hotel.

Health authorities are trying to figure out how a man in his 40s caught coronavirus inside his room on the top floor of the Stamford Plaza Hotel in Adelaide.

One theory is that the virus spread through aerosol transmission, which means the man could have inhaled Covid-19 particles from a patient in his 20s who was staying in the opposite room.

SA Health are scrambling to track down 14 other guests who were in isolation at the hotel at the same time as the new case - ten of whom has since travelled interstate.

State laws say all travellers must get a Covid test three days after leaving quarantine.

A further five guests from the hotel's 19th floor have been ordered to stay in quarantine until the situation is resolved.
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At least 68 people have died and at least 70 are missing after torrential rain triggered some of Europe's deadliest flooding in years - with homes and cars swept away in Germany and parts of Belgium.

Hardest-hit was western Germany where at least 45 people were killed, spread across its most-populous state of North Rhine-Westphalia and neighbouring Rhineland-Palatinate.

The town of Schuld, south of Bonn, was particularly badly affected - with at least 18 killed there and in the nearby town of Ahrweiler with dozens missing when the Ahr river burst its banks and swept away homes even as people sheltered on their rooftops.

Fifteen people also died in the Euskirchen region while two firefighters were killed elsewhere during rescue efforts, with 300 soldiers deployed to help rescue teams today along with helicopters and inflatable boats.

Malu Dreyer, premier of Rhineland-Palatinate state, described the situation as 'a catastrophe', adding: 'There are dead, missing and many still in danger. Our emergency services are in action... and risking their own lives.'

It marks Germany's deadliest flooding in decades - the closest comparable tragedy struck in 2002 when 21 died in the country, with more than 100 killed in Europe as a whole.

German authorities estimate at least 60 people died in the floods and Belgian media reported eight deaths in the country including two men who were swept away in the flooding while a 15-year-old girl was also reported missing. Ten houses collapsed near Verviers after the river Vesdre flooded, with residents evacuated from more than 1,000 homes.

Belgian authorities also ordered those living along the waterfront in Liege to evacuate as water levels rose.

'We have rarely experienced such intense flooding. You have to go back to 1998 to have experienced this,' mayor of nearby Chaudefontaine Daniel Bacquelaine told RTL radio.

Residents of South Limburg, in the Netherlands, also had to be evacuated after flooding there overnight, though no casualties were reported.

Flooding also hit Switzerland as rivers burst their banks, while similar scenes played out in Luxembourg. French forecasters also issued severe weather warnings for the east of the country today.

GERMANY: At least four people died and dozens more are missing after flooding destroyed large parts of the town of Sculd

GERMANY: Debris from destroyed houses is seen strewn through the city of Schuld after it was hit by flooding overnight

GERMANY: Debris lay in a street after the floods caused major damage in Schuld near Bad Neuenahr, western Germany

GERMANY: The village of Schuld (pictured) was partially destroyed by flooding overnight that swept away six homes killing at least four people - though dozens more have been reported missing

GERMANY: Schuld was badly damaged after the Ahr river which flows around it burst its banks, sending torrents of water through the streets which then swept away houses and cars

GERMANY: The village of Schuld in the district of Ahrweiler is destroyed after heavy flooding of the river Ahr

The entire village of Schuld in the district of Ahrweiler is destroyed after heavy flooding of the river Ahr,

GERMANY: A digger moves debris including a smashed-up car after heavy flooding hit Schuld, in western Germany

GERMANY: A pile of debris including a battered car is seen in the middle of the street in Schuld after it was hit by floods

BELGIUM: A woman wades through a flooded street in Liege after heavy rains hit the area and caused widespread flooding

BELGIUM: People evacuate their flooded homes in the city of Liege, Belgium, after torrential rains left their street underwater

King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima are examining the damage caused by the storm in Valkenburg in recent days

King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima visit the flooding in Valkenburg and the damage it caused

A car is flooded with water after the storm that hit Valkenburg in South Limburg

King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima are on a visit examining the damage in the town

King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima are helped on to an emergency service vehicle during a visit to Valkenburg

The streets in the town are completely flooded following a horrific storm in the area

In South Limburg, problems have arisen in many places due to the heavy rainfall and high water levels

Numerous buildings in Altenahr, Germany, are damaged by the severe storm

Bundeswehr vehicles arrive in Altenahr, Germany, to support the emergency services after heavy rains caused extreme flooding

Emergency services arrive to assist in the immense flooding in Altenahr

A destroyed caravan and other debris lie next to a railway track in Altenahr, Germany

Pensioner Annemarie Mueller, 65, looking out at her flooded garden and garage from her balcony, said her town of Mayen had been completely unprepared for the destruction.

'Where did all this rain come from? It's crazy,' she told AFP, recalling the floodwater crashing through her street during the night.

'It made such a loud noise and given how fast it came down, we thought it would break the door down.'

Chancellor Angela Merkel, on a visit to Washington, said she was 'shocked' by the humanitarian 'disaster', calling it a 'tragedy' for the nation.

She vowed that the government would do 'everything in its power to, under the most difficult circumstances, save lives, prevent danger and ease suffering'.

North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) premier Armin Laschet, who is running to succeed Merkel in September elections, cancelled a party meeting in Bavaria to survey the damage in his state, Germany's most populous.

'We will stand by the towns and people who've been affected,' Laschet, clad in rubber boots, told reporters in the town of Hagen.

He called for 'speeding up' global efforts to fight climate change, underlining the link between global warming and extreme weather.

Because a warmer atmosphere holds more water, climate change increases the risk and intensity of flooding from extreme rainfall.

Nineteen bodies were recovered in the region around the western town of Ahrweiler alone, with up to 70 people missing, a police spokesman told AFP.

Farther north, the district of Euskirchen in NRW reported 15 dead. Four more victims were found in the municipality of Schuld south of Bonn where six houses were swept away by floods.

Several other bodies were recovered from flooded cellars across the region.

The environment ministry in Rhineland-Palatinate state warned it expected floodwaters on the Rhine and Moselle rivers to rise with more rainfall. In NRW and Rhineland-Palatinate, some 200,000 households were without power.

Police set up a crisis hotline for reporting missing loved ones and residents were asked to send in videos and photos that could help them in the search.

Regional official Juergen Pfoehler in Ahrweiler urged people to stay home 'and, if possible, go to higher floors' of their houses.

The German military deployed some 400 soldiers across the two affected states to assist in rescue efforts.

In the city of Leverkusen, a power outage triggered by the storms led to the evacuation of a hospital with 468 patients.

Belgium has also seen several days of heavy rain that has caused rivers in the French-speaking region of Wallonia to burst their banks. Four were reported dead.

The provinces of Liege and Namur were especially affected, with the resort town of Spa completely flooded.

Residents in Liege were told Thursday to urgently evacuate neighbourhoods near the banks of the Meuse river.

In the town of Chaudfontaine, daily Le Soir reported that nearly 1,800 people had to evacuate.

The country's Infrabel rail network said it was suspending services in the southern half of the country, given the risks to travel.

Meanwhile Dutch safety workers have evacuated hundreds of homes in the southern town of Roermond.

Officials also closed off several roads including the busy A2 highway, while fears remained that water from heavy rains in Germany and Belgium would push up river levels as it reached the Netherlands. The Luxembourg government set up a crisis cell to respond to emergencies triggered by heavy rains overnight as Prime Minister Xavier Bettel reported 'several homes' had been flooded and were 'no longer inhabitable'.

NETHERLANDS: The fire brigade evacuate people from their homes in South Limburg, the Netherlands, after towns were flooded amid torrential rain

SWITZERLAND: People rush to remove their belongings from a flooded campsite in Ottenbach after the nearby Reuss river burst its banks amid heavy downpours

SWITZERLAND: The village square of Stansstad, near the city of Lucerne, is seen underwater with residents forced to walk across raised platforms after heavy rain hit Europe

SWITZERLAND: Tents and caravans stand on the flooded Reussbruecke campsite, in Ottenbach, Switzerland

Das Video hier hat mir meine Schwester aus der Voreifel geschickt  #Hochwasser #Starkregen pic.twitter.com/ltxjXJWrZf  SHINee is back!!!  (@Naira_511) July 14, 2021

An armoured vehicle rolls through the streets close to Hagen, Germany, after the army was drafted in to help flood victims

A resident stands on a log in floodwaters after the Meuse River broke its banks during heavy flooding in Liege, Belgium

People use a rubber raft in floodwaters after the Meuse River broke its banks during heavy flooding in Liege, Belgium

A car is seen covered in rubble in the German town of Hagen, south of Dortmund, after it was hit by flooding overnight

Damaged cars are seen along a street in Hagen, western Germany, after flooding washed tons of rubble down the street

Debris of houses and cars after flooding in Schuld, Germany

Trash is pictured following heavy rainfalls in Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler, Germany

Piles of debris and rubbish has collected in masses after the flooding in Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler

A woman cleans a shop entrance after flooding in the town of Bad Muenstereifel, south of the city of Bonn and located along the banks of the Erft river

Emergency crews join the cleanup operation after downpours overnight in Hagen, Germany, triggered flash flooding

Damaged houses are seen along the Ahr river in Insul, western Germany, after it broke its banks overnight

Due to heavy rain falls the Ahr river dramatically went over its banks overnight Wednesday, demolishing nearby homes

A damaged car is seen in Insul at the Ahr river, western Germany, after being swept away in the flood

A car rests on its roof after being swept away in floodwaters at Insul, on the banks of the Ahr river, Germany

The village of Schuld was among the worst-hit overnight with dozens reported missing after houses there collapsed

An overturned tractor and wrecked Mercedes are among debris left strewn through the city of Schuld after it was hit by floods

Local residents inspect collapsed houses after heavy flooding of the river Ahr, in Schuld, Germany

A gnome is seen perched on top of a pile of debris after it buried a car in Hagen, western Germany, overnight

The worst-hit areas were in western Germany, where torrential rain and flash flooding caused rivers to burst their banks and sweep away houses killing at least 42

The flooding took place after particularly heavy downpours overnight which fell onto sodden ground that had already been drenched through Tuesday and Thursday.

That sparked flash flooding while also causing swollen rivers and lakes to burst their banks.

In Belgium, the Vesdre river broke its banks and sent masses of water churning through the streets of Pepinster, close to Liege, its destructive power bringing down some buildings.

'Several homes have collapsed,' mayor Philippe Godin told RTBF network. It was unclear whether all inhabitants had been able to escape unhurt.

In eastern Eupen, on the German border, one man was reported dead after he was swept away by a torrent, a local governor told RTBF network.

Chancellor Angela Merkel said she is 'shocked' by the extent of the 'devastation' caused by the flooding.

On a visit to Washington, Merkel said what had occurred as 'a disaster,' adding that 'heavy rain and flooding doesn't capture what happened.'

'I grieve for those who have lost their lives in this disaster,' she said. 'We still don't know the number. But it will be many.'

She also expressed her condolences to those who had lost loved ones, 'and we can tell the relatives that everything is being done to find those who are missing.'

At least 135,000 people in Germany were also left without power after torrents of water ripped electricity poles out of the ground.

In the city of Leverkusen, a power outage triggered by the storms led to the evacuation of a hospital with 468 patients. Intensive care patients were moved overnight, with other wards still being cleared today.

Meanwhile police in Stolberg were called to a supermarket, a drug store and a jeweller after looters moved in to ransack the empty properties. One person was arrested.

Another man was reported missing in eastern Belgium, where some towns saw water levels rise to unprecedented levels and had their centers turned into gushing rivers.

The provinces of Liege and Namur were especially affected, with the resort town of Spa completely flooded. In the town of Chaudfontaine, daily Le Soir reported that nearly 1,800 people had to evacuate.

Major highways were inundated and in the south and east of the nation, the railway service said all traffic was stopped.

The southern Dutch province of Limburg which is bordered by Germany and Belgium also reported widespread damage with rising waters threatening to cut off the small city of Valkenburg west of Maastricht.

Local news footage showed small rivers of water flowing through the scenic city centre's streets and at least one old age home had been evacuated.

Officials also closed off several roads including the busy A2 highway, while fears remained that water from heavy rains in Germany and Belgium would push up river levels as it reached the Netherlands.

Meanwhile the Luxembourg government set up a crisis cell to respond to emergencies triggered by heavy rains overnight as Prime Minister Xavier Bettel said 'several homes' had been flooded and were 'no longer inhabitable'.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pledged to help those affected.

Stunned onlookers are confronted by an impossible-seeming pile of cars that washed together in Verviers, Belgium, after heavy flooding hit the area overnight

The back end of a house was torn away leaving the interior rooms exposed during flooding in Schuld, Germany

People try to remove the floods from a destroyed house in Schuld near Bad Neuenahr, western Germany

The village of Schuld in the district of Ahrweiler is destroyed after heavy flooding of the river Ahr in Germany,

German Army soldiers and local residents try their best to clean up the damage after flooding in Hagen, Germany

People are evacuated from a flood-affected area, following heavy rainfalls in Valkenburg, Netherlands

A rescue boat is carried by a special purpose vehicle in the flooded Ehrang neighbourhood in Trier, western Germany

Firemen are seen during a mission in the Ehrang neighbourhood in Trier, western Germany

Firemen standing on the roof of their vehicle climb into an inundated house in the flooded Ehrang neighbourhood in Trier, western Germany, to try and save the occupants

German army armoured vehicle pulls a truck from the mud after flooding in Hagen, Germany

The Erft river is seen flowing underneath a damaged bridge in the town of Bad Muenstereifel, Germany

Firefighters speak with people next to debris brought by the flood following heavy rainfalls in Schuld, Germany

Firefighters begin to repair a damaged road after flooding in Schuld, Germany, to assist with rescue efforts

A damaged road and a car after flooding in Bad Muenstereifel, Germany

The gaping hole is left in the back of a building after it was washed away by sudden flooding in Hagen, Germany

A destroyed building is seen at a flood-affected area following heavy rainfalls in Schuld, Germany

Debris brought by the flood new seen on the street following heavy rainfalls in Schuld, Germany

Partially submerged vehicles are pictured on a flood-affected area, following heavy rainfalls in Schuld, Germany

Cars destroyed by flood are pictured on a flood-affected area, following heavy rainfalls in Schuld, Germany

Collapsed houses are seen on a flood-affected area following heavy rainfalls in Schuld, Germany

Collapsed buildings are seen on a flood-affected area following heavy rainfalls in Schuld, Germany

Firefighters work at a flood-affected area following heavy rainfalls in Schuld, Germany

A damaged bridge after flooding in Hagen, Germany

A woman looks at debris brought by the flood next to the Ahr river, following heavy rainfalls in Schuld, Germany

A woman wades through floodwaters in the town of Hagen after torrential rain inundated rural areas in western Germany

A policeman (right) carries a baby girl as he helps her mother evacuate from a flooded house in Ensival, Belgium

People look a at a destroyed car and other damages caused by the floods of the Volme river in Priorei, near Hagen

A street running between the towns of Insul and Schuld, in western Germany, was swept away in heavy rains overnight

Floodwaters rush under a bridge over the Meuse River during heavy flooding in Liege, Belgium

A car sits in a floodwater filled tunnel during heavy flooding in Liege, Belgium

A man uses plastic, wood and sandbags to protect his house from the rising floodwaters of the Meuse River during heavy flooding in Liege, Belgium

'My thoughts are with the families of the victims of the devastating floods in Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands and those who have lost their homes,' she tweeted. 'The EU is ready to help.'

The full extent of the damage across the region was still unclear after many villages were cut off by floodwater and landslides that made roads impassable.

Videos posted on social media showed cars floating down streets and houses partly collapsed in some places.

Many of the dead were only discovered after floodwaters began to recede again. Police said four people died in separate incidents after their basements were flooded in Cologne, Kamen and Wuppertal, where authorities warned that a dam threatened to burst.

Authorities in the Rhine-Sieg county south of Cologne ordered the evacuation of several villages below the Steinbachtal reservoir amid fears the dam there could also break.

A fireman drowned Wednesday during rescue work in the western German town of Altena and another collapsed during rescue operations at a power plant in Werdohl-Elverlingsen.

One man was missing in the eastern town of Joehstadt after disappearing while trying to secure his property from rising waters, authorities said.

Rail connections were suspended in large parts of North-Rhine Westphalia, Germany's most populous state. Governor Armin Laschet, who is running to succeed Angela Merkel as chancellor in this fall's German election, was expected to visit the flood-hit city of Hagen later Thursday.

German weather service DWD predicted the rainfall would ease Thursday, though there might still be localized storms.

Authorities in the southern Dutch town of Valkenburg, close to the German and Belgian borders, evacuated a care home and a hospice overnight amid flooding that turned the tourist town's main street into a river, Dutch media reported.

Caravans and campers under water at the De Hatenboer campsite in Roermond, Netherlands

A campsite that flooded in Roermond, the Netherlands, after the Meuse river broke its banks overnight

An aerial view of the campsite shows how the Meuse river which typically flows behind the line of trees to the top left of the frame broke its banks and flooded the surrounding land

A destroyed car lies in the Ahr river after heavy flooding in Schuld, Germany

The village of Schuld in the district of Ahrweiler is destroyed after heavy flooding of the river Ahr

A destroyed bridge leads over the Ahr river in Schuld, Germany

Damaged cars on a flooded street in the Belgian city of Verviers, after heavy rains and floods lashed western Europe

Damaged cars on a flooded street in the Belgian city of Verviers

People ride on a trailer as the Dutch fire brigade evacuate people from their homes in South Limburg

A man wades through the water as flooding affects the area after heavy rains in Ensival, Verviers, Belgium

A man carries a dog next to debris brought by the flood, following heavy rainfalls in Schuld, Germany

People wade through the water as flooding affects the area after heavy rains in Ensival, Verviers

Emergency workers wade through a flooded road after heavy rains in Ensival, Belgium

A woman looks from a building at a flooded road after heavy rains in Ensival, Belgium

Emergency workers wade through the water as flooding affects the area after heavy rains in Ensival, Verviers, Belgium

An excavator is seen on a flooded street in Hagen, Germany

The Ried neighbourhood on Lake Sarnen in the canton of Obwalden is covered with flood water, in Giswil, Switzerland

The village square of Stansstad in the canton of Nidwalden on Lake Vierwaldstaettersee is covered with flood water, in Stansstad, Switzerland

Emergency workers wade through a flooded road after heavy rains in Ensival, Verviers, Belgium

Cars in the water as flooding affects the area after heavy rains in Ensival, Belgium

A man wades through the water as flooding affects the area after heavy rains in Ensival, Belgium

A damaged bridge after flooding in Hagen, Germany, where the military is now helping with rescue efforts

Evacuated residents of a care home sit inside a bus as they are taken to a reception location, in the municipality of Valkenburg aan de Geul, South Limburg region, the Netherlands

Police officers in an army vehicle evacuate residents of a care home, in the municipality of Valkenburg aan de Geul, South Limburg region, the Netherlands

Ambulance personnel and police officers stand inside an army vehicle to evacuate residents of a care home, in the municipality of Valkenburg aan de Geul, South Limburg region, the Netherlands

Armin Laschet, State Premier of North Rhine-Westphalia, speaks to the media after flooding in his state and neighbouring Rhineland-Palatinate left at least 20 dead and 70 missing

The Dutch government sent some 70 troops to the southern province of Limburg late Wednesday to help with tasks including transporting evacuees and filling sandbags as rivers burst their banks.

A section of one of the Netherlands' busiest highways was closed due to rising floodwaters threatening to inundate the road and Dutch media showed a group of holidaymakers being rescued from a hotel window with the help of an earth mover.

Unusually intense rains have also inundated a swath of northeast France this week, downing trees and forcing the closure of dozens of roads.

A train route to Luxembourg was disrupted, and firefighters evacuated dozens of people from homes near the Luxembourg and German border and in the Marne region, according to local broadcaster France Bleu.

The equivalent of two months of rain has fallen on some areas in the last one or two days, according to the French national weather service. With the ground already saturated, the service forecast more downpours Thursday and issued flood warnings for 10 regions.

Meanwhile, high temperatures of 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher were expected Thursday in parts of northern Europe.

The night between Wednesday and Thursday was the hottest in history, the Finnish weather service company Foreca said Thursday with the mercury reaching 24.2 Celsius degrees (75.6 degrees Fahrenheit).

Greta Thunberg, the climate activist, tweeted that the extreme weather of recent days should not be regarded as 'the new normal.'

'We're at the very beginning of a climate and ecological emergency, and extreme weather events will only become more and more frequent,' she said on Twitter.
Victoria has been plunged into a snap five-day lockdown after a string of 18 worrying locally-acquired Covid cases and a long list of exposure sites were revealed.

Premier Daniel Andrews made the announcement on Thursday afternoon declaring stay-at-home orders will be in place from Thursday July 15 at 11:59pm to Tuesday July 20 at 11:59pm.

As part of the strict measures there are now only five lawful reasons to leave home - essential shopping, exercise, medical care, work or study that cannot be done from home, daily exercise and to go and get vaccinated.

Pictured: Health workers in action at Ariele Apartments in Maribyrnong, north-west of Melbourne, on Thursday after an outbreak at the complex. 200 residents are in isolation

There are now only five lawful reasons to leave home in Victoria. Pictured: Melburnians are seen walking their dog by the Yarra River

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VICTORIA'S NEW LOCKDOWN - The lockdown is scheduled to run from Thursday July 15 at 11:59pm until Tuesday July 20 at 11:59pm. - There will be only five lawful reasons to leave home 1. Essential shopping 2. Two hours of daily exercise within a 5km radius 3. To seek or provide medical care 4. Work or study that cannot be done from home. 5. To go and get vaccinated. - Face masks will be mandatory indoors and outdoors - Schools will return to online learning - 5km travel limit for essential tasks, including shopping and exercise - If your business was closed during the last lockdown, they must close this lockdown - Hospitality open for takeaway only - General retail is closed, as well as all non-essential businesses - Visitors to the home are banned - Funerals capped at ten people, while weddings are banned - Professional sport can proceed but with no crowds - Outdoor parks and play areas are open, but those indoors must close Advertisement

Mandatory wearing of face masks will also return and residents will be restricted from travelling more than 5km away from their home.

Under the familiar rules, schools will return to at-home online learning and hospitality business can only open for takeaway service.

General retail stores will be forced to close as well as all other non-essential businesses.

All visitors to the home are now banned and sports events can only proceed in front of empty stadiums.

Funerals and weddings will also be limited to just 10 people.

The state has now recorded 16 total cases of the highly infectious Indian Delta variant after a crew of removalists from Covid-ravaged Western Sydney brought the virus across the border.

Their visit has created two chains of transmission that has left contact tracers scrambling to find thousands of residents that have potentially been exposed.

'We now have new cases, new exposure sites and a strain of this virus that is wildly infectious,' Mr Andrews said.

'We've seen this strain before  and you probably already know what we need to do next.

'Victoria will not wait to act. We know that not much good comes from waiting. Waiting could see more people infected and the number of exposure sites explode.'

'If we act now  while we're right on the heels of this outbreak  we can give ourselves every chance of getting ahead of it. If we wait  we lose that option.'

The state has now recorded 16 total cases of the highly infectious Indian Delta variant. Pictured: A Melbourne Testing Site Albert Park

It is the fifth lockdown in Victoria since the pandemic hit Australia's shores. Pictured: Pedestrians in Melbourne

BREAKDOWN OF VICTORIA'S GROWING COVID-19 CLUSTERS REMOVALIST CLUSTER * 11 cases * Five cases linked to residents of the Ariele Apartments in Maribyrnong where NSW removalists worked on July 8 * A resident in his 60s passed on the virus to his parents, aged 89 and 90, who live in Craigieburn * He also attended an AFL game between Carlton and Geelong at the MCG on Saturday with a friend, a Bacchus Marsh Grammar teacher * The friend, a Barwon Heads man in his 50s has since tested positive as have two members of his household, another man in his 60s and a nine-year-old child * An adult and a child who were sitting in the same section of the MCG as the two men have also tested positive in a case of suspected 'stranger-to-stranger transmission' * Another case was on Thursday afternoon detected in a man in his 20s who was in the MCC Members' Reserve area at the MCG at the same time as the two men HUME FAMILY CLUSTER * Five cases * A family of four returned from NSW, three by car and one by plane on July 4 and July 8. All four have progressively tested positive since Sunday * A man in his 30s who attended Coles Craigieburn at the same time as one of the family members and knows the family is also infected. CLOSE CONTACTS AND EXPOSURE SITES * 1500 primary close contacts, 5000 secondary * More than 75 exposure sites including two gyms, a football club and multiple metro trains and trams Advertisement

Victoria's latest outbreak began when a crew of three removalists from Sydney travelled to Victoria as part of their work.

They all had the appropriate permits to enter the state despite the Harbour city's spiraling number of Covid cases which as now surpassed 800.

The three-man team arrived at a home in Craigieburn on the northern outskirts on of Melbourne July 8, where they dropped off furniture.

The visit resulted in a family of four testing positive with one of them transmitting the virus to a man at the local Coles.

Victoria's latest outbreak began when a crew of three removalists from Sydney travelled to Victoria as part of their work. Pictured: Two woman stroll down the streets of Melbourne ahead of lockdown

A couple of Melburnians take a Winter dip at St Kilda in Melbourne ahead of lockdown

Later that same day the removalists travelled to the Maribyrnong in Melbourne's west, to the Ariele Apartment complex.

Victoria Covid-19 Commander Jeroen Weimar said the three removalists were not wearing masks as exemptions are granted for strenuous activities like carrying furniture.

As a result numerous residents were infected with the virus at Ariele Apartments, sending the entire building and its 200 residents into quarantine for 14 days.

A resident in his 60s passed on the virus to his parents, aged 89 and 90, who live in Craigieburn.

From 11:59pm Thursday July 15, hospitality businesses will be forced to shut their doors

A group of women relax in a Melbourne park as they prepare for another Victorian lockdown

The same man also attended an AFL game between Carlton and Geelong at the MCG on Saturday with a friend, a Bacchus Marsh Grammar teacher.

The friend, a Barwon Heads man in his 50s has since tested positive as have two members of his household, another man in his 60s and a nine-year-old child.

An adult and a child who were sitting in the same section of the MCG as the two men have also tested positive in a case of suspected 'stranger-to-stranger transmission'.

It was revealed on Thursday afternoon yet another case was detected in a man in his 20s who was in the MCC Members' Reserve area at the MCG at the same time as the two men.

Melbourne has gone into a snap lockdown after its outbreak grew to 18 cases. Pictured are police officers in the Victorian capital

With long-suffering Victorians, who endured a 112-consecutive day lockdown last year, set to be thrust back into stay-at-home orders and curfews, the Premier took a swipe at his NSW counterpart Gladys Berejiklian.

'Nothing about the fact that this virus has travelled from Sydney is fair,' he said.

'That's just the reality we face. I apologise to all Victorians that this is necessary.'

NSW is now also under harsh restrictions until at least July 30 after resisting a lockdown for 10 days from the initial outbreak on June 16 and the start of the current lockdown on June 26.

A dog is taken for a walk by health workers at Ariele Apartments in Maribyrnong, north-west of Melbourne, Australia, 15 July 2021

The Ariele Apartments in Maribyrnong, Melbourne, has been placed into quarantine along with its 200 residents

Critics have claimed the lag allowed the disease to spread beyond Sydney eastern suburbs where it began and sweep across the city and now interstate.

'If you wait, if you hesitate, if you doubt, then you will always be looking back wishing you had done more earlier,' said Mr Andrews.

'I am not prepared to avoid a 5-day lockdown now only to find ourselves in a 5- week or a 5-month lockdown.

'That is why we are making this very difficult decision and it is why I know Victorians will, despite the pain and the difficulty of, this know and understand that there is no option.'
A 36-year-old man has been charged with murder after the fatal stabbing of a teenage boy in south London.

Sadikee Williams, of Stockwell, south-west London, was charged on Wednesday with the murder of Keane Flynn-Harling.

The 16-year-old was stabbed to death in Lambeth on July 5.

Officers were called to Oval Place just before midnight and attended along with members of the London Ambulance service - but the teenager was fatally injured and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Williams, who is also accused of possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, is due to appear at Wimbledon Magistrates Court on Wednesday.

A 29-year-old man who was also arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on bail until August.

A 36-year-old man has been charged with murder after the fatal stabbing of Keane Flynn-Harling (pictured) in south London

Just hours before Keane was killed, a 15-year-old boy was killed in Woolwich, southeast London in front of horrified onlookers in broad daylight.

On Tuesday, friends and family arrived to lay flowers and cards at the scene in Lambeth - paying tribute to the 'friendly, bubbly' Keane.

Multiple bunches of flowers and messages were left tied to nearby railings addressed to 'Keane', and signed by aunts and uncles.

'I'm so sorry you're gone. We love you so much, rest in perfect peace,' read one, while another said 'love you with all my heart baby boy, we love you millions.'

'Keano, taken too soon. Sleep tight with the angels,' said another.

Speaking to the PA news agency a family friend of the boy described him as 'nice, friendly, bubbly... a nice character,' and said she had known him all his life.

Chief Superintendent Colin Wingrove, responsible for local policing in Lambeth and Southwark, said: 'I am shocked and saddened by the senseless loss of another young life to knife crime.

Police near to the scene in Lambeth where a 16-year-old boy was killed on July 5

'I am also deeply saddened that another family experiences the painful loss of a son, and the trauma knife crime brings is once again experienced in our local community.

'Every loss of life is a tragedy and this needless violence must end. I urge anyone with information to come forward.'

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or tweet @MetCC quoting CAD 8532/05Jul.
NHS Covid app (pictured) will not be made less sensitive for weeks, reports say

A record half-a-million Brits were told to self-isolate by NHS Covid app last week, amid mounting concerns over the chaos triggered by the 'pingdemic'.

Unions have warned factories across the country are on the 'verge of shutting' down, with tens of thousands of workers urged to quarantine at home by the app.

Up to 900 workers at car giant Nissan's flagship plant in Sunderland are being made to self-isolate, it was claimed today.

Around 10 per cent of staff working at the Japanese car firm's manufacturing site in Sunderland were pinged by the app.

People told to isolate by the app are under no legal requirement to do so because their identity is not tracked by the software.

But fears have been raised that the software could cripple the nation's already fragile economy this summer when restrictions are completely lifted.

Businesses demanding a re-think of the rules have warned supermarket shelves may be left empty if tens of thousands of workers are told they must self-isolate in the coming weeks.

There are also fears piles of rubbish may pile up in the street some bin collections in Liverpool have already been cancelled from next week because too many staff are isolating to run the service.

Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick today admitted No10 was 'concerned' about the number of people who may have to self-isolate because of the app.

Official figures released today show the contact-tracing app sent out 520,000 self-isolation alerts last week.

The number of 'pings' dished out by the software in the week ending July 7 was the highest since the data was first published in January, and was up 46 per cent on the previous seven-day spell.

Despite fears the chaos will only get worse over the next few weeks with infections expected to continue surging, it was claimed that the contact-tracing app may not be watered down after all.

Government officials have been tasked with tweaking the software so fewer people are 'pinged' and told to self-isolate.

But sources told The Times that it was possible no changes will be made, and that if they are, they won't happen until August 16  the same day quarantine rules end for the fully-vaccinated.

Up to 10 per cent of staff working at Nissan's car plant in Sunderland (pictured) have been told to self-isolate by the app

NHS England data showed a record 520,000 alerts were sent by the app last week, telling people they had been in close contact with someone who tested positive

Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick (pictured visiting Redcar last week) said ministers were still considering how the app could be updated

Hundreds of workers told to self-isolate at Sunderland car factory A car factory in Sunderland has been thrown into chaos by the NHS app, with hundreds told to isolate. Reports suggest up to 900 workers are being forced to stay at home after receiving 'pings'. Nissan said it has 'adjusted' production at the Wearside site, which employs 7,000 people. But unions are warning many factories are approaching collapse with so many staff members forced to stay home by self-isolation warnings. Nissan said it had 'a number of staff being required to self-isolate following close contact with Covid'. Unite assistant general secretary Steve Turner said: 'No one is advocating for Covid controls to go out the window and Unite's number one priority remain the health and safety of our members. 'But the reports Unite is receiving from our members and their employers are extremely worrying. 'It is not an exagerration to say factories are on the verge of shutting and that at some sites hundreds of staff are off work.' Advertisement

NHS England data showed a record number of positive cases were linked to the app last week, as the third wave gathers steam.

Infections have soared over the past weeks, with some experts attributing the sharp rise to England's progress to the final of Euro 2020.

There were 86,000 positive cases logged with the software, up 40 per cent on the 61,000 in the previous week.

And the number of alerts sent linked to venues more than doubled to 1,247 places.

These are sent when someone has visited a location, like a pub or restaurant, on the same day as another person who later tested positive for the virus.

Ministers are understood to have been spooked out of tweaking the app by the soaring infection rates.

Britain yesterday recorded 42,000 cases in the highest figure since mid-January, as the second wave was beginning to die down. Ministers fear they could spiral to 100,000 a day by mid-August.

Thinktanks have claimed the rise in cases could see up to 2million people told to quarantine at home every week by the app, unless it is watered down.

Mr Jenrick called on Britons to keep using the app today but hinted ministers were still mulling over how to update it.

Government sources last week told the Mail the app's 'sensitivity' will be reduced to cut the numbers being asked to isolate unnecessarily.

Mr Jenrick told LBC: 'It is important that we have the app, that we take it seriously, that when we do get those messages we act accordingly.

'But we are going to give further thought to how we can ensure it is a proportionate response.'

He added: 'We have indicated that for those who have been double-vaccinated there are opportunities to take a more proportionate approach.

'We are concerned about absences as a result of being pinged, for example.

A record number of positive tests were also linked to the app last week, data showed. There were 86,000 cases logged with the app, up 40 per cent from 61,000 the previous week

And the number of alerts sent out in relation to venues also more than doubled in seven days

There are mounting warnings supermarket shelves could be left empty by the app, and bins could also be left to rot in the street because there are not enough staff available to self-isolate

'That is one of the reasons why we do need to move to a more proportionate approach.'

Business leaders have warned the app could lead to a summer of chaos after Monday, when most remaining Covid curbs are due to be lifted.

Lidl has party blamed empty shelves at some of its stores on so many truck drivers having to isolate.

Nissan said it has had to adjust production at its plant because of the amount of staff being told to isolate.

The company said: 'Production in certain areas of the plant has been adjusted as we manage a number of staff being required to self-isolate following close contact with Covid.

'The well-being of our team is our number one priority and we remain confident in the rigorous safety controls we have on site.'

But unions are warning many factories are approaching collapse with so many staff members forced to stay home by self-isolation warnings.

Unite assistant general secretary Steve Turner said: 'No one is advocating for Covid controls to go out the window and Unite's number one priority remain the health and safety of our members.

'But the reports Unite is receiving from our members and their employers are extremely worrying.

'It is not an exaggeration to say factories are on the verge of shutting and that at some sites hundreds of staff are off work.'

Thousands of ministers and officials are escaping self-isolation rules thanks to 'get out of jail free card' pilot scheme Thousands of ministers and government officials are escaping self-isolation thanks to a pilot scheme that amounts to a 'get out of jail free card', it was revealed. The Cabinet Office, Border Force and Transport for London are among the bodies signed up to a trial that replaces quarantine with daily testing - meaning they can continue working after being 'pinged' for close contact with a positive case. Michael Gove used the arrangements to avoid self-isolating when he returned from watching the Champions' League final in Porto in May. Several Downing Street staff have benefited from the pilot, instead being able to take daily lateral flow tests to check whether they have the virus. They can carry on duties as normal unless they develop symptoms, but must still isolate when not at work. According to the Telegraph, some politicians have likened the scheme - which is apparently in place in businesses in utilities, manufacturing and retail - to the famous Monopoly card. Nadhim Zahawi highlighted at the weekend that daily testing could replace self-isolation more widely in future. However, the news will raise questions about whether ministers and civil servants are getting preferential treatment when hundreds of thousands of healthy members of the public are being forced into house arrest. Advertisement

And councils have raised concerns over bin collections after Leeds, Bristol and Rochdale were forced to leave resident's rubbish on the curbside after the app forced workers to stay at home.

Liverpool Council today confirmed bin collection would be cancelled for two weeks in parts of the city.

Cabinet member for neighbourhoods Abdul Qadir said: 'Unfortunately due to Covid guidelines on isolation our refuse service team is severely depleted, and we need to prioritise our waste collections.

'Our current programme is clearly not sustainable when one in four staff are unavailable to work.

'We know the temporary suspension of collecting garden waste will be an inconvenience but it will allow us to ensure general waste and alleyway cleansing is kept to schedule.

'Our recycling centres are also open late in the summer so residents have an option if they feel they can't wait for the next green bin cycle.

'After 19 July, the isolation guidelines change for those who have been double jabbed and this two week delay will give us time to re-organise the teams to ensure we can get back on track at the start of August.'

There are reports that up to one in five workers in pubs, restaurants and bars were also self-isolating due to the app.

The NHS app  heralded as a way to halt the spread of the virus  uses Bluetooth to estimate how close a user has been to a Covid positive patient and for how long.

This information allows it to determine whether someone is at risk of catching the virus and if they should self-isolate.

Everyone who gets alerted is advised to self-isolate for ten days, even if they have had both doses of the vaccine or a negative test

Ministers have promised to drop isolation requirements for the double-jabbed on August 16, but are under pressure to push this date forward.

More than 26million Britons have downloaded the app  or around half the adults in the country  but many are now deleting and deactivating it.

It comes after polling revealed yesterday that a fifth of Britons are planning to delete the NHS app before 'Freedom Day' amid fears they may be asked to self-isolate.

It also found more than a third of 18 to 24-year-olds in the UK have already deleted the app, and another third say they are considering wiping it from their phones within the next week.

Among adults of all ages, the proportion debating deleting the app in the next six days was 20 per cent according to Savanta ComRes.

It comes as it was revealed yesterday that thousands of ministers and government officials are escaping self-isolation thanks to a pilot scheme that amounts to a 'get out of jail free card'.

The Cabinet Office, Border Force and Transport for London are among the bodies signed up to a trial that replaces quarantine with daily testing - meaning they can continue working after being 'pinged' for close contact with a positive case.

Michael Gove used the arrangements to avoid self-isolating when he returned from watching the Champions' League final in Porto in May.
A Trinidadian RAF airman who foiled Nazi efforts to shoot down 200 bombers duped superiors into believing he was African royalty.

Ulric Cross and Kenrick Rawlins arrived from the Carribbean in 1941 to help Britain's war effort against the Germans.

But today a 70-year-old joke they had played on their bosses was revealed in a new book that includes their incredible exploits.

When they were given accommodation they told them Rawlins was an African prince and Cross his spokesperson.

The Duke of Edinburgh met the legendary flying ace Ulric Cross in November 2009

West Indian servicemen send Christmas greeting home over the air. Cross is seen right

The prank, brought to light in Will Iredale's The Pathfinders book, saw a corporal make their beds for them in the barracks.

Cross and Rawlins' raids for the RAF were carried out in wood-frame Mosquitos across Germany.

Cross, a navigator, helped prevent 200 bombers from being shot down in a bombing raid over Germany in 1943.

His engine was shot out on the mission and he crashed in Norfolk but lived to the grand age of 96.

Cross and Rawlins' raids for the RAF were carried out in wood-frame Mosquitos (stock image)

But his friend Rawlins was killed in 1943 when his De Havilland Mosquito sank in the sea.

Nicola Cross, 52, Ulric Cross's daughter, told the Guardian: 'I saw him cry twice. The second time was when he was in his 90s and it was the fact that the 250 (Trinidadian airmen in the RAF) had not been recognised.'

Miss Cross wants the role of servicemen and women like her father to be taught on school syllabuses and added: 'There are lots of invisibles.'

Her father had been inspired to join the RAF after being struck hard by watching Britain being defeated at Dunkirk.

His determination to help was also sparked by his dismay at seeing Hitler and the Nazis continue their occupation across Europe.

While his story may not be known widely by the public, a Hollywood film was made about him and he is lauded in many circles.

The Independent reports Cross made an appearance in the short propaganda film West Indies Calling, produced by the Ministry of Information.

In a newsletter in 1944 when he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross it was described as 'a joy to every West Indian heart.'
Thirteen people were injured - two critically - when a Green Line Metro bus crashed into a retaining wall near an elementary school in the nation's capital on Wednesday.

The critically injured people were transported to a nearby hospital, and three were transported with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

Seven people were reported to have no serious injuries. One person refused treatment at the scene.

A Metro bus crash left 13 injured - two critically - in Washington, DC on Wednesday. Three others were transported to a nearby hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

Officials said the bus was headed from the Fort Totten Metro station to Prince George's Plaza when it struck the retaining wall near Keene Elementary School.

The D.C. Fire and EMS Department said the crash took place at 3:30 p.m., at the intersection of 1st Street and Riggs Road, near Keene Elementary School in the northeast side of the city.

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority said the bus was headed from the Fort Totten station to Prince George's Plaza.

The Metropolitan Police Department is investigating what caused the collision.
Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has filed court papers with 16 other GOP-led states defending a recent law in Arkansas banning doctors from providing 'experimental' transgender treatments for children.

Marshall was joined by attorneys general in 16 states in filing an amicus brief with the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas to defend legislation that was passed in April.

Arkansas became the first state in the country to enact a law banning healthcare professionals providing puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones or gender-affirming surgery to minors.

The legislation threatens medics who provide this care with losing their medical license and opens them up to lawsuits from patients who later regret their procedures.

'We are filing this brief because, like Arkansas, we are concerned about the surge in recent years of children suffering from gender dysphoria and other forms of gender-related psychological distress,' Marshall said.

'Like Arkansas  and like those challenging the SAFE Act  we are concerned because these vulnerable children are suffering greatly and need help. The vital questions are, how do we help them, and how do we avoid serious irreversible damage.'

The brief comes after the American Civil Liberties Union filed a lawsuit challenging a state's ability to prohibit minors from accessing 'gender-affirming' treatment while arguing it is against the U.S. Constitution.

The Republican-dominated Arkansas state legislature (seen in the above Jan. 12 file photo in Little Rock) passed a measure that bans doctors from providing certain types of hormonal treatments to transgender teens under the age of 18

The ACLU argues that forcing youths to go through puberty as their assigned sex at birth, rather than the sex they identify as, would put them in 'extreme distress' as their bodies develop.

The lawsuit argues that the Arkansas law banning time-sensitive medical care, such as puberty-delaying treatment, for transgender youths is 'brazen discrimination' as they are still allowed for cisgender youth.

'While Arkansas' new law prohibits the time-sensitive medical care that [transgender youths] need, the law allows cisgender youth to receive the same gender-affirming care, including both puberty blockers and hormone therapy, to help align their bodies with their gender, such as to address breast development in boys or facial hair in girls,' the ACLU said in a statement.

'The law bans the care only when provided to affirm the gender of transgender youth. Such brazen discrimination cannot be reconciled with the Constitution.'

But Marshall and other GOP-led states including Idaho, Mississippi and Arizona, argue that such gender-reassignment treatments are 'unsupported by reliable scientific evidence'.

They point to other countries such as the U.K., Finland and Sweden where such procedures are considered 'experimental'.

'What evidence does exist, though, does not show that long-term mental health outcomes are much improved or rates of suicide much reduced by hormonal or surgical intervention,' the group said in the amicus brief.

'Yet children are promised relief and asked to "consent" to life-altering, irreversible treatment-and to do so when they are in pain, when they cannot weigh long-term risks the way adults do, when they are not even old enough to vote,' the group added.

The image above shows LGBTQ activists rallying March 19 at the Arkansas State Capitol in Little Rock

Marshall explained further in his statement and said: 'One of the few things we know in this area is that most cases of gender dysphoria in children resolve naturally with time, and it's impossible to know ahead of time whose dysphoria will persist into adulthood and whose won't.

'Yet the evidence also shows that nearly all children whose gender dysphoria is treated with puberty blockers to 'buy time' will proceed to take cross-sex hormones and seek other medical interventions with irreversible, lifelong consequencescomplications such as infertility, loss of sexual function, increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, bone density problems, risk of altered brain development, social risks from delayed puberty, and mental health concerns,' he added.

Marshall said that children are unable to weigh the 'long-term risks' of the transgender treatments as their brains are still developing and they lack experience.

'With the stakes so high, the harms so great, and the known benefits so paltry, the Arkansas legislature did not have to embrace an experimental path in lieu of the one that has served the medical profession so well for so long: First, do no harm,' Marshall said.

In late March, during the Senate vote on the bill, state Sen. Alan Clark described gender-reaffirming treatments as at best experimental and at worst a serious threat to a child's welfare.' He argued the bill would 'protect children from making mistakes that they will have a very difficult time coming back from.'

'I know that their parents are looking for any kind of answer, and my heart truly goes out to them,' he said. 'But this is certainly not the answer.'

But transgender advocates backing gender-affirming care say each step is undertaken with the consultation of doctors, therapists and social workers.

Not all teenagers who question their gender identity decide to go through with transition.

But those who consistently identify as transgender can be prescribed puberty blockers.

Others graduate to cross-sex hormone therapy, a more serious commitment to transitioning.

A small number opt for some type of surgery with parental consent, but experts say those cases for minors are rare.

'There's a misperception that we automatically set them on this path from puberty blockers to hormones to surgery. These are very considered decisions. The process can occur over years before surgery is considered,' said Dr. Loren Schechter, a plastic surgeon specializing in gender confirmation surgery.

One Arkansas mother who opposed the bill said her 15-year-old transgender son went through six months of therapy and doctors' visits before beginning hormone therapy.

'Dylan is happy, healthy, confident and hopeful for his future,' Joanna Brandt told the ACLU news conference.

But proponents of the laws say children under 18 should be prevented from receiving any such treatments, accusing transgender advocates of minimizing the side effects and downplaying cases where transgender people regret having made the transition.

The socially conservative American College of Pediatricians, which represents 600 physicians and healthcare professionals, has come out in favor of the legislation, saying affirming gender discordance too early will push young people to transition.

Attorney General Marshall was joined in the brief by the attorneys general of Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee and Texas.
A Tory MP today faces court charged with molesting a 15-year-old boy in 2008.

Imran Ahmad Khan, 47, the Conservative MP for Wakefield, West Yorkshire, said he denies 'in the strongest terms' an allegation he groped the teenager in Staffordshire.

The MP - who has been suspended by the Conservative Party - faces a single count of sexual assault against the then-teenager, who cannot be identified for legal reasons.

Mr Khan was elected at the 2019 general election, and appeared at the Old Bailey via videolink from his solicitors office wearing a pale grey suit. He spoke to only to confirm his name and date of birth.

Ahmad Khan, who first appeared on the provisional court court by his initials IK, can be named after reporting restrictions in the case were lifted at Westminster Magistrates Court last month.

Mr Khan, from Wakefield, helped Boris Johnson win a large Commons majority in 2019 - with the Tories now representing 45 per cent of the Northern Powerhouse constituencies

He turned Wakefield - that was previously in the so-called 'red wall' that formed Labour's heartlands in the Midlands and the north of England - blue with his win.

Imran Ahmad Khan, 47, (pictured) the Conservative MP for Wakefield, West Yorkshire, said he denies 'in the strongest terms' an allegation he groped the teenager in Staffordshire

The charge put to Ahmad Khan alleges: 'In the county of Staffordshire you intentionally touched a boy aged 15 and that touching was sexual when he did not consent and you did not reasonably believe that he was consenting, contrary to Section 3 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003.'

The Conservatives have previously said the whip had been suspended from Ahmad Khan, meaning he would sit as an independent in the Commons.

A spokeswoman for the Tory whips office said: 'Imran Ahmad Khan has had the whip suspended. As there is an ongoing court case we will not be commenting further.'

How Labour stronghold Wakefield turned blue Wakefield in West Yorkshire was part of Labour's 'red wall' for 87 years before Tory Imran Ahmad Khan won the seat in the 2019 General Election. Labour MP Mary Creagh held the seat previously - but was beaten by Ahmad Khan by 3,358 votes. After his win, Ahmad-Khan said: 'The first thing we must do is to keep faith in the people of Wakefield and...get Brexit done.' The constituency first voted for Labour in 1932 - when Arthur Greenwood took the seat in a by-election. MP Yvette Cooper - who had run against Jeremy Corbyn in the Labour leadership contest - said of the loss: 'There's been some very talented and hard working MPs, including Mary Creagh in Wakefield, who we've lost and that is a deep shame. 'We've lost a lot of votes, we've lost a lot locally, we've lost a lot nationally and the reason that matters so much is because I think there are people who really need a strong Labour Party and a Labour government and they've been let down. 'The perception of the party as a whole, the perception of our leadership, all of these things came up and we're going to have to reflect very seriously.' Advertisement

Ahmad Khan was said not to have been on the parliamentary estate since the charges were brought and is not expected to return while the case is ongoing.

Last month, the MP appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court by video-link from his lawyers' office.

Asked to indicate a plea to the charge, Ahmad Khan, who was represented by Sallie Bennett-Jenkins QC, said: 'Not guilty.'

In a statement, Ahmad Khan said: 'It is true that an accusation has been made against me.

'May I make it clear from the outset that the allegation, which is from over 13 years ago, is denied in the strongest terms.

'This matter is deeply distressing to me and I, of course, take it extremely seriously.

'To be accused of doing something I did not do is shocking, destabilising and traumatic. I am innocent.

'Those, like me, who are falsely accused of such actions are in the difficult position of having to endure damaging and painful speculation until the case is concluded.

'I ask for privacy as I work to clear my name.'

Chief magistrate Paul Goldspring said the case was not suitable for trial in the magistrates' court and sent the case to the Old Bailey.

He told Ahmad Khan: 'You must appear at the Central Criminal Court, the Old Bailey, on July 15 at 9.30am. Between now and then you are granted unconditional bail.

'If you do not attend on that occasion, unless there is a very good reason, you potentially commit an offence. Do you understand that?'

Ahmad Khan replied: 'I do.'

According to his website, the MP was born in Wakefield, where he attended the independent Silcoates School before going to university at the Pushkin Institute in Russia and graduating from King's College in London with a bachelor's degree in war studies.

The MP - who has been suspended by the Conservative Party - faces a single count of sexual assault against the then-teenager, who cannot be identified for legal reasons. Pictured, Ahmed Khan with Prime Minister Boris Johnson

Before entering Parliament, he worked for the United Nations as a special assistant for political affairs in Mogadishu.

The Crown Prosecution Service said it made the decision to charge after reviewing a file of evidence from Staffordshire Police.

Stressing the need for a fair trial, Rosemary Ainslie of the CPS said: 'It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.'

She added: 'The Crown Prosecution Service authorised police to charge Imran Ahmad Khan, MP for Wakefield, with one offence of sexual assault. The charge relates to an allegation of sexual assault in 2008.

'The CPS made the decision that Mr Khan should be charged after reviewing a file of evidence from Staffordshire Police.

'The CPS reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against Mr Khan are active and that he has a right to a fair trial.'

Staffordshire Police had probed the historic sexual assault claim for more than a year - but did not make an arrest during this time.

Khan was sent a formal 'requisition' telling him to face the charge last month.

Staffordshire Police said in a statement: 'A man has been charged with a sexual assault in 2008.

'Imran Ahmad Khan, 47, of London, has been charged following an investigation by Staffordshire Police's CID.

'He will appear at the Central Criminal Court on Thursday 15 July.

'Staffordshire Police takes all reports of sexual offences seriously and has a team of specially-trained detectives to support victims.

'Anyone who has concerns should private message Staffordshire Police on Facebook or Twitter or call 101.'
A headteacher who appeared to blame 'a number of' Bangladeshi families for increasing the risk of Covid-19 infections at her primary school will take an early retirement - after parents campaigned to oust her.

Karen Todd said she felt 'totally let down' by those in the 'Bangladeshi community' in a letter sent to parents at Richard Avenue Primary School, Sunderland, in November last year.

The headteacher - who has been at the school for 23 years - suggested adults could have been working as taxi drivers or in restaurants while awaiting Covid-19 test results.

She claimed others were attending wedding ceremonies at home and hosting Mehndi nights 'against the law' in the letter - which sparked outrage from community leaders who launched a petition for her to be investigated.

Mrs Todd was absent from the school for five months before returning to her headteacher post in May.

Now - just two months later - Mrs Todd confirmed in a heartbreaking letter that she will be stepping down after taking an early retirement.

She said she spent her life 'trying to make a difference to improve the life chances of our young people' - and told how she will 'truly miss' the children she worked with.

School governors have now begun the process of appointing her replacement.

Karen Todd said she felt 'totally let down' by those in the 'Bangladeshi community' in a letter sent to parents at Richard Avenue Primary School, in Sunderland

Karen Todd said she felt 'totally let down' by those in the 'Bangladeshi community' in a letter - which sparked outrage from community leaders who launched a petition (pictured) for her to be investigated

The letter she sent out in November read: 'I apologise, for those Bangladeshi families receiving this letter, who are like myself, trying to do the right thing. But I felt it was important for us as a whole community to be open and honest with each other.

'I ask myself, how many of those adults who are currently testing positive, or awaiting results, having acted irresponsibly;

'Have sent their children to school? Who are working as a taxi driver? In a restaurant or takeaway?

'This virus is highly contagious, significantly impacts more on the BAME community and can kill.

'I feel many people need to wake up, take responsibility and change their behaviour.'

Community leaders described feeling 'single-out' and stereotyped as rule-breakers by the note.

The long-serving headteacher suggested adults could be working as taxi drivers or in restaurants while awaiting Covid-19 test results. Pictured: Richard Avenue Primary School

Mrs Todd's letter announcing her retirement It is with a heavy heart that I am writing to inform you of my decision to take early retirement from August 31. I have had 23 very special years at Richard Avenue, 18 of those as headteacher. I have dedicated my life trying to make a difference to improve the life chances of our young people. 'I have had the privilege of working with a fantastic team of dedicated staff and governors, who have been relentless in their ambition for the school community. Everyone pulling together to make such a difference to local families and giving children the best start in life. Most importantly, I will miss the children... their kindness, their humour and their innocence. I will, from the bottom of my heart, truly miss them. I have always loved my job. It has been an honour and a privilege to hold such a position and work alongside such amazing children and staff. You all should be incredibly proud of what you have achieved. Thank you to everyone and I wish all connected to Richard Avenue Primary School the very best. Advertisement

The headteacher later apologised and accepted responsibility for causing offence but insisted it was 'never my intention'.

But petition was launched - and shared by parent's to a Facebook page belonging to the school - calling on governors to investigate Mrs Todd's letter.

It read: 'We the undersigned, petition the Chair of Governors in respect of the deeply hostile and discriminatory letter the Headteacher of Richard Avenue addressed to the Bangladeshi community on 3rd November 2020.

'We find the language and tone of the letter harassing, offensive, derogatory and humiliating, with the racist stereotyping of a whole community completely intolerable.

'We find the letter is inflammatory, incites hatred and increased risk of hate crime and racism.

'This is wholly unacceptable conduct for a headteacher, a custodian of a school with over 70 per cent BAME school population and who promotes the school as vibrant, multicultural and values and celebrates diversity.

'We find the apology issued on the 4th November 2020 by the Headteacher lacking in sincerity and has not appeased the aggrieved community.

'We demand that the governors act impartially and fairly in investigating the professional conduct of the headteacher in line with the Headteachers Standards 2020 and the Equality Act 2010; including her failure to act indiscriminately, to promote positive and respectful relationships across the school community, her clear lack of respect and tolerance for others and her clear inability to implement consistent, fair and respectful approaches.'

Another letter from Mrs Todd was sent out to parents this month announcing her retirement.

Ms Todd claimed in the letter (pictured), sent on November 3, that some adults were making a series of 'totally irresponsible decisions' which had 'increased the risk' of Covid-19 transmission to pupils, staff and their families

It read: 'It is with a heavy heart that I am writing to inform you of my decision to take early retirement from August 31.

'I have had 23 very special years at Richard Avenue, 18 of those as headteacher.

'I have dedicated my life trying to make a difference to improve the life chances of our young people.

'I have had the privilege of working with a fantastic team of dedicated staff and governors, who have been relentless in their ambition for the school community.

Community leaders described feeling 'single-out' and stereotyped as rule-breakers by the note. Pictured: Some reaction to the letter

'Everyone pulling together to make such a difference to local families and giving children the best start in life.

'Most importantly, I will miss the children... their kindness, their humour and their innocence. I will, from the bottom of my heart, truly miss them.

'I have always loved my job. It has been an honour and a privilege to hold such a position and work alongside such amazing children and staff.

'You all should be incredibly proud of what you have achieved. Thank you to everyone and I wish all connected to Richard Avenue Primary School the very best.'

Together for Children - the company that delivers children's services on behalf of Sunderland City Council - confirmed Mrs Todd's departure and said the board of governors will now begin the process to appoint her replacement.
Man dubbed a vampire has confessed to killing ten children and sucking the blood out of at least one in a five-year killing spree in Kenya.

Masten Milimo Wanjala, 20, was arrested on Wednesday after police tracked him down after two bodies were found dumped in Kabete, outside Nairobi.

He confessed to ten murders over a five year period and is assisting police to recover the bodies.

Officers said Wanjala will be charged with multiple counts of murder.

'Vampire' Masten Milimo Wanjala, 20, was arrested on Wednesday after police tracked him down after two bodies were found dumped in Kabete, outside Nairobi

Wanjala was found after two bodies - identified as Junior Mutuku Musyoka, 12, and Charles Opindo Bala, 13 - were found in Kabete.

He has been linked to several other disappearances in recent months, though police say it is not yet clear what his motive was.

Police are trying to establish if Wanjala had accomplices or if he was working alone.

The suspect led detectives to the site of several of the murders on Wednesday, officers took photos and videos as evidence.

Masten Milimo Wanjala, 20, led police to the scene of one of his alleged killings after he was arrested on Wednesday

Wanjala was arrested after two bodies - identified as Junior Mutuku Musyoka, 12, and Charles Opindo Bala, 13 - were found in Kabete, outside Nairobi

Many of the sites were thick bushes near maize plantations, but Wanjala also dumped his victim's bodies in open sewage pipes, Capital News reported.

Police said Wanjala had tried to ransom the children, demanding between 200 (KSH 30,000) and 330 (KSH 50,000) from their parents in exchange for their freedom.

Musyoki's mother Felista Wayua was asked for 330 in exchange for her son but was unable to raise the money.

Junior Mutuku Musyoka, 12, was allegedly kidnapped by Wanjala who demanded 330 from his mother, Felista Wayua, in exchange for her son's freedom

Opindo's father was asked for 200 after his son was kidnapped from Sagaret Primary School in Majengo.

Wanjala's five-year killing spree started when he was just 16, local media reported.

He allegedly kidnapped Purity Maweu, 12, and sucked her blood before leaving her for dead.

Wanjala is believed to have struck again, three years later, in Kimilili, western Kenya, killing Aron, 13.

The young boy's death led to violent protests in Kamukuywa, in which residents torched a house they believed belonged to the suspect.

Several bodies of Wanjala's alleged victims are yet to be discovered after he dumped them in sewage lines.

Wanjala's grisly confession led several Kenyan newspapers on Thursday morning.

The Standard reported the suspect is a repeat offender who has previously spent time behind bars.

In 2020, 242 children under 18 - 125 girls and 117 boys - were reported missing, according to Missing Child Kenya.

Most were reunited with their families, but at least 10 were found dead and 18 are still missing.
Green co-leader Sian Berry is to quit amid a furious row over trans rights within the party.

The London Assembly member and perennial mayoral candidate lashed out at the party's 'mixed messages' on gender identity, suggesting her front bench team did not share her views.

Ms Berry, who is pro-trans rights, announced she would not seek re-election in a leadership by-election later this month.

That election was triggered by the resignation of her fellow co-leader, Jonathan Bartley, just a week ago.

In a statement last night she said she could 'no longer make the claim that the party speaks unequivocally, with one voice' on the issue of 'trans rights and inclusion'.

The election of new front bench representatives by the membership meant there was 'inconsistency' between her own and the party's stance, she added.

Ms Berry said: 'I must stand by our policies and my pledges made to Londoners in the recent election, and there is now an inconsistency between the sincere promise to fight for trans rights and inclusion in my work and the message sent by the party's choice of front bench representatives.

'This inconsistency has left me in a very difficult position. I can no longer make the claim that the party speaks unequivocally, with one voice, on this issue.

The London Assembly member and perennial mayoral candidate lashed out at the party's 'mixed messages' on gender identity, suggesting her front bench team did not share her views.

Her decision to quit comes just a week after her fellow co-leader, Jonathan Bartley, also revealed he was to step down.

'And my conscience simply cannot agree with the argument that there is anything positive in sending these mixed messages, especially when the inclusive attitudes of our membership and wider society are clear.

'Failing to win the confidence of a majority of my colleagues to reflect these is also a failure of leadership. Green leaders do not hold power but we do have a duty to influence, so I must apologise to you all for this failure and hold myself to account.'

She called for members to consider whether the Greens would 'continue to embrace the principles of listening and solidarity when minority groups are singled out for attack' when electing a new leadership team.

Ms Berry said on social media that she would remain in place during the leadership contest but would not be a candidate.

The Green co-leaders in 2019 with deputy Amelia Womack (left)

Mr Bartley and Ms Berry were elected co-leaders of the national Green Party on a joint ticket in 2018, taking over from the party's only MP, Caroline Lucas.

In a statement, the London Assembly member said: 'I have been considering my position as co-leader since the decision was made to announce our new front bench spokespeople.

'And though I will stay on as acting leader through the leadership by-election, I am writing today to say that I have decided not to stand as a candidate in that by-election.'

The 47-year-old said it had been 'incredibly rewarding' working with Mr Bartley and that she was 'proud of the progress the party' had made in recent years, with the Greens racking up an impressive performance at the local elections in May.

Outgoing co-leader Mr Bartley said on Twitter: 'It's been amazing to have worked with you these last few years.

'You have been truly inspirational and we all owe you a huge debt of gratitude for everything you have done.'
Victoria's snap five-day lockdown to stop the spread of newly-imported Covid cases from New South Wales will be a 'head to head experiment' between the two states, stars of The Project have warned.

New South Wales has recorded 929 infections since June 16 - when a limo driver is thought to have caught the virus ferrying international flight crew - and are now in lockdown until at least July 30.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian held off on calling a full-scale lockdown for almost two weeks, a move slammed by her Victorian counterpart Daniel Andrews.

Since the virus came into Victoria from Sydney, 18 new cases have been recorded in the state after a team of infected removallists from Covid-ravaged western Sydney travelled to Melbourne for work.

'Good on Daniel Andrews for recognising the mistakes that have been made here in NSW,' Lisa Wilkinson (pictured) said

'It's a tale of two cities. We now have a test case on how to deal with the Delta strain,' co-host of The Project Peter Helliar said.

'Sydney has done it their way and Melbourne will try to do it this way.'

Fellow host Waleed Aly said Premier Andrews sounded 'quite pointed' in the way he spoke on Thursday with barbed comments directed at how NSW has handled the worrying outbreak.

'He said "we're not waiting, we know what happens when you wait",' Aly said.

'And that sounded like he was talking about Sydney. There were constant references to the situation in Sydney.

'So this is like a head to head experiment.'

Channel Ten stars of The Project say Victoria's snap five day lockdown after a string of Indian Delta Covid cases will be like a 'head to head experiment' between Sydney and Melbourne

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian (left) held off on calling a full-scale lockdown for almost two weeks - something her Victoria counterpart Daniel Andrews (right) says he is not going to do

DAN ANDREWS' NOT-SO-SUBTLE DIGS AT GLADYS OVER COVID OUTBREAK Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews used his lockdown announcement to make a series of barbed comments about his New South Wales counterpart Gladys Berejiklian. On how the outbreak reached Victoria: 'Nothing about the fact this virus has travelled from Sydney is fair. That's just the reality we face. I apologise to all Victorians that this is necessary.' On Gladys not answering all press conference questions: 'Everyone, hang on! We are in Melbourne, I'm not walking out of this, everyone will get a go. Let's do this in an orderly way.' On NSW locking down several days after its outbreak was discovered: 'If you wait, if you hesitate, if you doubt, then you will always be looking back wishing you had done more earlier. 'I am not prepared to avoid a five-day lockdown now only to find ourselves in a five- week or a five-month lockdown. 'That is why we are making this very difficult decision and it is why I know Victorians will, despite the pain and the difficulty of this, know and understand that there is no option.' Advertisement

For long-suffering Victorians this will be the fifth lockdown since the pandemic hit Australian shores, including the gruelling 112-consecutive day stay-at-home order which were in place last year.

Although Helliar said being thrust back into lockdown feels like 'a nightmare,' the panel said this time around it feels different given the spiralling number of cases which have ravaged Sydney.

'We didn't want to be the test case,' Sydneysider Wilkinson said.

'But good on Daniel Andrews for recognising the mistakes that have been made here in NSW.

Health workers at Ariele Apartments in Maribyrnong, north-west of Melbourne are seen on Thursday (pictured) after it was declared an exposure site

'It's a tale of two cities. We now have a test case on how to deal with the Delta strain,' host of The Project Peter Helliar said. Pictured: Pedestrian wearing face masks walk in the CBD of Melbourne on Thursday

'I mean, even today, with cases being in the mid-60s, down from just over 100 two days ago, that's a good sign, but the really worrying thing continues to be the number of people who are still out there, infectious in the community.'

'And that doesn't seem to be shifting and that's what we are all worried about.'

Earlier today, Mr Andrews used his lockdown announcement to make a series of barbed comments about his New South Wales counterpart Gladys Berejiklian.

The worrying Indian Delta strain crossed the border after a crew of removalists from Covid-ravaged Sydney travelled to Melbourne for work.

He took several clear swipes at Ms Berejiklians more gradual approach to lockdown, which has been criticised by some for not being severe enough, or happening quickly enough.

'If you wait, if you hesitate, if you doubt, then you will always be looking back wishing you had done more earlier,' said Mr Andrews.

'I am not prepared to avoid a five-day lockdown now only to find ourselves in a five- week or a five-month lockdown.

'That is why we are making this very difficult decision and it is why I know Victorians will, despite the pain and the difficulty of this, know and understand that there is no option.'

As part of Victoria's strict new measures there are now only five lawful reasons to leave home - essential shopping, exercise, medical care, work or study that cannot be done from home, daily exercise and to go and get vaccinated.

The stay-at-home orders will be in place from Thursday July 15 at 11:59pm to Tuesday July 20 at 11:59pm.

'I think everyone will be moving their own furniture from now on,' Helliar joked.
Giles Coren exploded with rage on social media this morning as he revealed thieves pinched his 65,000 eco-Jaguar for the second time in just three months.

The TV presenter, 51, turned detective back in April after his beloved car was stolen but police told him they didn't have the 'manpower to investigate'.

In an incredible thread, he posted pictures of his journey in tracking down the Jaguar I-Pace, which he eventually found in Highgate, north London, telling followers he 'got his electric kitty cat back'.

However, just weeks later, he has suffered the same fate, despite following instructions from the manufacturer and paying out 3,000 for a new tracking system.

In a furious tweet, Mr Coren wrote: 'They've stolen my f***ing car AGAIN!!!! Cost me three grand to reset the keys and put in a new tracking system after last time and what good does it do? F*** ALL.

'If you see a black Jaguar ipace reg ending JVN could you tell me? I'll give you a million pounds.'

His frustration was then compounded when he received an email from police - just 47 minutes after he was given a crime reference number and told the theft would be investigated - that the case had been closed.

The message read: 'An investigator from the Metropolitan Police has looked carefully at your case and we are sorry to say that, with the evidence and leads available, it is unlikely that it will be possible to identify those responsible. We have therefore closed this case.'

Giles Coren (pictured above) has had his beloved Jaguar I-Pace stolen for the second time in three months

Keyless car thefts and how to prevent them Keyless theft, also known as 'relay theft' occurs when a device is used to fool the car into thinking the key is close by. This unlocks the car and allows the ignition to be started. Police warn that every make and model of car which can start 'keylessly' is susceptible to a relay attack. While this might put drivers on edge, there are easy steps you can take to stop you becoming the next victim of a relay theft. Certain metals are capable of blocking key signals, which means if you store your fob with one of these metals around it, criminals won't be able to pick them up and steal your vehicle. The most simple and most ingenious is a metal can. The aluminum in a drinks can will stop radio signals being transmitted from your key and stop burglars in their tracks. Some experts have suggested keeping your keys in the fridge, as the material on the inside will block signals too. If you're looking for a low-cost option, some people wrap their fobs in tin foil - although this isn't endorsed by security firms. Keeping your keys in a small metal box however can work efficiently. Special faraday pouches  cheap wallets which shield the key's radio signal from being transmitted  are also useful for storing your keys when you're away from home - in motorway service stations and public car parks. Experts also encourage drivers to keep them at least 5m away from their front door, to give thieves the worst chance of being able to relay a signal. But some security specialists advise against hiding your car keys too obscurely in your house  because if serious criminals truly want to steal your car, they will break in and do anything to find the keys. Physical barriers such as steering wheel locks and even wheel clamps are all suggested as additional safety measures. Advertisement

The food critic told MailOnline he was trying to arrange a hire car so he and his family can get around.

'It was nicked from outside my house again,' he said.

'This time I had the keys in lead boxes and everything as I was supposed to make it impossible to steal the signal.

'Then I woke up this morning and saw the tracking company had texted to say it had been nicked.

'Apparently police followed the signal to a location given them by the tracker but there was no car. So case closed.

'There's so little point in these trackers. Last time it was nicked they just tore it out and when I found it I had to pay 3K for a new one - and new keys - because you can't have the car without the built in tracker.

'But it literally does nothing to inconvenience the thieves or make the car easier to retrieve.

'It's a massive pain in the a***.'

A Met Police spokesman said: 'Police were called at approximately 07:47hrs to reports of the theft of a motor vehicle on Lady Somerset Road, NW5.

'Officers carried out enquiries to trace the vehicle. No arrests have been made.'

Jaguar Land Rover has also been approached for comment on its tracking system.

It comes just three months after Mr Coren documented his hunt for the car, which had its tracker disabled within three minutes of it being stolen on an evening in April.

While setting out to locate it, the journalist posted: 'I suppose I'm rather hoping the crims [criminals] themselves are not still in the vehicle?'

The battery-electric crossover SUV had been left on the street for two days with 'no suspects present' and all officers on duty in the area at the time were 'assigned to ongoing incidents so unable to attend', said the Met Police.

The food critic began: 'Last night the c***s stole my new Jaguar I-Pace. So F*** them, f*** the environment and f*** any sort of giving a shit about cars.

'I'm buying a six year old diesel f***ing Skoda and everyone can just f*** off.'

He then shared a screenshot of his Jaguar tracker app which had notified him of a theft alert, captioning: 'This is the really useful Jaguar tracker app that tells you where your car is in all circumstances EXCEPT WHEN IT HAS BEEN STOLEN.'

The food critic told MailOnline he was trying to arrange a hire car so he and his family can get around after his vehicle (pictured) was stolen

Mr Coren had followed instructions from the manufacturer and paid out 3,000 for a new tracking system for his car (pictured being towed)

Mr Coren with his vehicle after tracking it down in April. Upon its discovery, he said the thieves had 'slung the seat back' into the 'gangster position', adding: 'I guess [they] just had a hell of a ride'

The TV presenter tweeted that he 'got his electric kitty cat back' after the Met Police texted him its location but didn't have the 'manpower to investigate'

However, in a turn of events, he later wrote: 'Well now this is exciting. Had an SMS from the Met saying that my car has been spotted and giving me the address where it was last seen.

'They don't have the manpower to investigate themselves so I'm heading off alone on foot to see if my car is there'

Mr Coren then shared images while walking under a bridge and along a street before finally locating the vehicle.

Upon its discovery, he said the thieves had 'slung the seat back' into the 'gangster position', adding: 'I guess [they] just had a hell of a ride'.

A spokesperson for the Met Police told MailOnline regarding the initial theft: 'We are aware of a series of posts on social media relating to a vehicle stolen on Friday, 9 April that has now been recovered.

'At around 14:00 on Sunday, 11 April, police received a call from a member of the public reporting a suspected abandoned vehicle on a street in Highgate, N6.

'Records showed the vehicle had been reported stolen.

Three of Mr Coren's tweets, pictured above. All officers on duty in the area at the time were 'assigned to ongoing incidents so unable to attend', said the Met Police

'The vehicle had been at the location for two days and there were no suspects present.

'All officers on duty in the area at the time were assigned to ongoing incidents so were unable to attend.

'The registered keeper was contacted and informed that his vehicle had been located.

'He told police that he would make his way to the location and was encouraged to call back if, on arriving, he was concerned for his safety or became aware of anything suspicious.

'He attended the location without incident later the same afternoon and retook possession of his vehicle.'
An urgent alert has been issued for 33 new Covid exposure sites in Sydney, including eight supermarkets, two Bunnings, and a McDonald's.

The new list of popular shops and takeaway outlets are spread across the city, with five bus routes also linked to infected Sydneysiders.

It comes as NSW recorded 65 new local Covid cases in the 24 hours to 8pm on Wednesday, bringing the state's outbreak to 923 infections.

Four of the sites are Tier 1, meaning anyone who visited at the listed times are considered a close contact and must immediately get tested and isolate for 14 days - regardless of the result.

The venues - which include a chemist and McDonald's - are all in Sydney's southwest, where the outbreak is currently concentrated after spreading from its epicentre in the city's eastern suburbs.

NSW Health has announced 33 new Covid exposure sites across NSW, including eight supermarkets, two Bunnings, and an entire shopping mall. Pictured: Stocklands Merrylands

Punchbowl's Chemist Warehouse (pictured) is one of four new close contact sites identified in NSW

NSW Health authorities have also classified anyone who visited the Star Sweet Patisserie in Fairfield (pictured) on Sunday 11 July from 4.20pm to 4.30pm as a close contact

Fairfield's Star Sweet Patisserie was attended by a positive case on Sunday 11 July from 4.20pm to 4.30pm, while Service NSW, in Liverpool, was exposed the following day from 10.10am to 10.25am.

In Punchbowl, the same alert as been issued for the McDonalds after an infectious employee worked in the drive through on Thursday 8 July from 6am to 4pm.

The local Chemist Warehouse was also affected on the same day between 2.30pm to 3pm.

It comes as NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the number of new local Covid infections is stabilising but warned the numbers are likely to keep bouncing around.

Of the 65 new cases, at least 35 people were out in the community for part or all of their infectious period - a number that authorities want to drive down to zero.

'It has been a stable number, it hasn't grown ... (but) unless it comes down, we can't get out of lockdown,' Ms Berejiklian told reporters on Thursday.

Most of the 20 new casual contact sites are in west and southwestern Sydney suburbs, including Fairfield, Auburn, Miller, Merrylands, Liverpool, Fairfield Heights and Smithfield.

Service NSW, in Liverpool, (pictured) has been listed as an exposure site on Monday 12 July

A regional petrol station, in NSW's Riverina region, has been named as a close contact site after a positive case travelled intrastate. Pictured: Hay Shell, on the Sturt Highway

An alert has also been issued for the Bunnings Warehouse in Alexandria, in Sydney's inner-west, which is now classified as a casual contact site

However, others have been identified across the city, including a Bondi Junction chemist, CBD cafe, a hardware store in the inner-west, and a petrol station in Sydney's north-western outskirts.

Passengers who travelled on five train routes between Auburn and Westmead stations over the weekend and on Monday have also been placed on alert, as well as shoppers across eight supermarkets.

Coles stores in Edensor Park, Hurstville, and Oatley were added to the list on Thursday, as were two ALDIs in Riverwood and Miller and Woolworths in Auburn, Riverwood and Fairfield Heights.

The list also includes an entire shopping centre and two Bunnings stores in Alexandria and Jamisontown.

Meanwhile, five million NSW residents will endure at least another fortnight of lockdown after a run of high daily coronavirus numbers forced the state government on Wednesday to extend stay-at-home measures at least until July 30.

Several alerts were issued for supermarkets, including this Woolworths in Auburn Central shopping centre

A woman wearing a face mask walks past a mural at Bondi Beach on Thursday, during Sydney's third week in lockdown

The massive list comes as Greater Sydney residents brace for another two weeks in lockdown, after stay-at-home orders were extended on Wednesday

There are 19 COVID-19 patients in intensive care in NSW, with five ventilated.

Ms Berejiklian says movement around Greater Sydney needs to drop even further and again implored people to stay home unless essential.

She defended current work-from-home settings, saying residents able to work from home were already doing so. She said it was impossible to achieve 'perfection' in the settings for workers obliged to leave home.

Organisations have long been obliged to have COVID-safe plans in place for workers and numerous businesses have shut due to the incompatibility of their operations with current health orders, Ms Berejiklian says.

'There never will be (perfection) no matter where you draw the line ... but what I do know is that the green shoots are starting to show,' the premier said.

Ms Berejiklian also urged people not to visit doctors or pharmacists with COVID symptoms, saying some had become infected in those settings.

A couple walk through Barangaroo, in Sydney's deserted CBD on Thursday afternoon

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said on Thursday the number of new local Covid infections is stabilising but warned the numbers are likely to keep bouncing around. Pictured: Police patrol in Sydney's eastern suburbs as the city remains under stay-at-home orders

Infection numbers continue to rise in southwest Sydney and a new 24-hour coronavirus testing clinic has opened at Fairfield.

There are now three testing sites in the area operating around the clock.

The clinics were inundated this week after essential workers from the Fairfield area were ordered to get tested every three days if they work outside the area.

Two of Sydney's major hospitals are also on alert after a nurse and a patient were diagnosed with COVID-19, but authorities say they are not panicked.

A pregnant patient at Liverpool Hospital, in Sydney's southwest, was diagnosed as COVID-positive on Wednesday after undergoing a procedure.

The hospital cancelled elective surgery to deep clean the operating theatre while close contacts are being tested and isolating for 14 days.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said hospital management 'understood what needs to be done' and were satisfied with the handling of the outbreak so far. He said the hospital was well equipped to replace isolating staff.

A new 24-hour coronavirus testing clinic has opened at Fairfield as infection numbers continue to rise in Sydney's southwest. Pictured: A health worker at the showground drive-through clinic in Fairfield

A pedestrian walks through the empty streets of Fairfield, where the city's outbreak is concentrated after shifting from its epicentre in the eastern suburbs

A nurse who worked at Westmead Hospital in the COVID-19 ward has also tested positive for the virus but there are no cases yet linked to the health worker.

The nurse was vaccinated and is currently asymptomatic.

NSW Health on Thursday afternoon confirmed another suspected case, at the Chris O'Brien Lifehouse for cancer treatment in Sydney, was a false positive.

Later on Thursday, 2GB radio reported two southwest Sydney paramedics had picked up COVID-19, with contact tracing underway.

COVID-19 exposure alerts were issued on Wednesday for two work sites in Greenacre, as well as Shell at Jindera and Shell Coles Express in South Gundagai in southern NSW after an infected removalist travelled through the area.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Scott Morrison says relief is on its way for parents, who will no longer have to pay for child care they're not using during lockdown.

The measure could benefit around 216,000 families across 3600 centres.
Detectives investigating the murder of a newborn baby boy found dumped in a canal in the West Midlands have said he was 'potentially alive for several hours' before dying as Crimestoppers offer a 5,000 reward for information.

West Midlands Police are still attempting to trace the mother of the infant, whose body was found in the Wyrley and Essington Canal in Rough Wood country park, in Walsallm on May 20, amid concerns for her welfare.

The force has liaised with the Black Country Coroner to retain the baby's body with dignity, in case his parents are traced and wish to lay him to rest.

Detective Inspector Wes Martin said: 'Pathology suggests the baby was potentially alive for several hours. We're treating it as a murder investigation until we've spoken to the parents who can help us with our understanding.'

The Crimestoppers charity said it was offering a 5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone responsible for offences linked to the baby boy's death.

The death of a baby boy who was found in canal in Walsall (pictured) is now being treated as murder and Crimestoppers are offering a 5,000 reward to anyone with information

Floral tributes left near Rough Wood country park in Walsall said 'I know you're in heaven'

A passer-by discovered the baby at around 1pm in a stretch of canal off Hunts Lane.

Det Insp Martin, from the force's Homicide Unit, added: 'We understand it's a really distressing time for the parents. We'll treat them sensitively and support them throughout. But we need to understand what happened.

'We've liaised with the Black Country Coroner and the baby's body has been retained with dignity in case they wish to lay him to rest. We want to try and find the truth and understand what happened to the baby boy.'

Mick Duthie, director of operations at Crimestoppers, said: 'This is a particularly sad, tragic case and shocking for the community, so we are keen to have answers as to what happened and who was involved.

'We are urging anyone who may know something to contact our charity anonymously as soon as possible. There is concern also for the well-being of the baby's mother.

'Investigators, who have asked our charity to put up this reward, believe that someone may know or suspect who the mother is.

'We hope that our reward for information given anonymously will help prompt someone's conscience to speak up and tell us what they know.'

Officers speak to a passer-by about an incident that occurred in Rough Wood country park in Walsall, where a dead newborn baby boy was found in the local canal

Mr Duthie added: 'Everyone who contacts Crimestoppers stays 100% anonymous. Always. We have kept this promise for over 32 years.

'When you call our UK Contact Centre on freephone 0800 555 111, which is open 24/7, or use our simple, secure and anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org to give information, nobody will know you contacted us, only you.'

A week after the grim discovery, a makeshift memorial had been created on a nearby canal footbridge.

There were handful of teddy bears in plastic bags, keeping them dry placed alongside bunches of flowers.

Details of a leaflet explaining the incident that occurred in Rough Wood country park in Walsall, where a dead newborn baby boy was found in the local canal

Officers have said they are keen to get the child's mother medical assistance, and get answers as to how the baby ended up the water.

Detectives are also trying to prick people's consciences, appealing to those who may know the mother or what has happened to speak to police in confidence.

The child was left in a secluded spot with the towpath leading away from the scene in both directions, making the investigation more complex.

The reserve, bisected by the Wyrley and Essington Canal, is criss-crossed with footpaths leading to nearby residential roads and estates, making it potentially 'very difficult' to piece together people's movements, police said.
Former staffers of Vice President Kamala Harris have described a toxic environment in her offices dating back more than a decade, just days after her employees claimed they are 'treated like sh**t'.

Reports of an 'abusive' workplace atmosphere in the Vice President's office, published by Politico, have resonated with staffers who worked for Harris while she held senior positions such as US senator.

'So many people recognized themselves in it, or recognized treatment they had seen or treatment they had heard about and dismissed,' one former staffer told Business Insider.

They added that they had sent a link to the report to their therapist with a message that read: 'Rarely in life are we publicly vindicated.'

Some of the former staffers recalled the now Vice President as 'unpredictable and at times demeaning', according to the report based on interviews with 12 ex-employees who worked for Harris while she was San Francisco's district attorney between 2004 and 2011, California's attorney general from 2011 to 2017 and most recently US senator.

Barbara O'Connor, a communications professor at California State University in Sacramento told Insider that at least 20 interns who had worked in Harris' attorney general and Senate offices had come to her crying because they 'felt they weren't valued' there.

Former staffers of Vice President Kamala Harris have described a toxic environment in her offices dating back more than a decade, just days after her employees claimed they are 'treated like sh**t

O'Connor said she transferred around five interns out of the offices at the time.

A former aide to Harris claimed that when she was attorney general in California there was 'a sense of paranoia in that office, that you never knew when she was going to snap at you'. Another said the workplace was 'toxic' and 'reactionary'.

Several ex-staffers also claim Harris would call their office and hang up on them 'all the time' if they did not give her the information quick enough.

Barbara O'Connor claimed at least 20 interns working at Harris' offices had come to her crying

One said Harris got frustrated on the phone after she couldn't find a staffer she was looking for. 'I don't understand what's taking so long,' Harris allegedly snapped before hanging up, the former staffer said. 'And I'm just sitting there just shell-shocked.'

Another said: 'If she called in to talk, and then changed her mind, she would just hang up the phone on you.'

Others said Harris would want to be briefed on issues usually three days in advance - but would sometimes move up meetings without telling her staff and criticize them if they hadn't prepared.

'She would move that time slot up so you would be within the 72-hour window without the materials,' said one former staffer. Harris would pull out the unfinished briefing notes and say: 'You and I both know that these need to be in three days before we do this briefing.'

The source claimed Harris would then either want to be briefed meaning aides would brief 'somebody who's angry or thinks you've failed,' or refuse to have the meeting with 'a lot of verbal abuse about why she wasn't prepared'.

During her presidential campaign, Harris would have several events a day and a former staff member said they would sometimes have to edit briefing documents for 'trivial reasons'.

The source said: 'Oftentimes the way she digests information is by editing or demanding edits to briefing documents. I think it's how she internalizes facts, but also it's frustrating if you're having to redo something for relatively trivial reasons.'

Some of the former staffers recalled the now Vice President as 'unpredictable and at times demeaning'. Pictured: Harris with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Washington today

Tina Flournoy (pictred), Kamala Harris' Chief of Staff, was accused of creating a 'blame culture' in an environment where 'ideas are ignored or met with harsh dismissals and decisions are dragged out'

They added that the campaign staff had to travel with a battery-powered printer to reprint note cards and briefing documents in various locations.

But top White House officials have defended Harris amid the allegations, accusing critics of a 'whispering campaign' designed to bring her down.

While the sources cited in the Politico report claimed Chief of Staff Tina Flournoy had created a 'blame culture' where 'ideas are ignored or met with harsh dismissals', the former employees who spoke with Business Insider allege Harris was the problem for them.

'[L]ol that everyone is pointing to her [Flournoy] when it's obvi KDH,' an ex-aide texted another former colleague in response to the Politico report while referring to Harris by her initials.

But not all of Harris' former staffers were critical of her, with one describing how working at her office was the best job she's had.

'I learned so much and I also saw the person and not just the politician,' she said. 'I love her, I really do.'

Tensions started to boil over after Harris finally decided to visit the border last month, blindsiding staffers

Sources claimed that President Biden's office was concerned about the treatment of staff

Jeff Tsai, a former aide to Harris while she was California's attorney general, said 'all of the paces she put us through were the same paces she put herself through'.

Another former staffer in the same office said everyone 'loved Harris', but they were 'so stressed that they were making themselves sick. Is that toxic? I don't know'.

Tensions within Harris' Vice President office reportedly boiled over in late June when Harris finally decided to visit the border with Mexico.

The decision blindsided officials tasked with arranging travel and others outside her office responsible for messaging across the administration, according to Politico.

The outlet cited 22 officials, former officials, aides and associates of President Biden and Harris who described low morale, a tense atmosphere, porous lines of communication and diminished trust. Much of the blame was directed at Flournoy.

'People are thrown under the bus from the very top, there are short fuses and it's an abusive environment,' said one source.

'It's not a healthy environment and people often feel mistreated. It's not a place where people feel supported but a place where people feel treated like s**t.'

But top White House officials mobilized to defend Harris, accusing anonymous critics of a 'whispering campaign' designed to bring her down.

White House Chief of Staff Ron Klain told Axios: 'The president's trust and confidence in her is obvious when you see them in the Oval Office together.'

He said her talents and determination had already made a big difference to some of the toughest challenges facing the administration.

Top White House officials mobilized to defend Harris (pictured right with Merkel on July 15), accusing anonymous critics of a 'whispering campaign' designed to bring her down

'She's delivering for the American people on immigration, small business, voting rights, and economic growth,' he added.

'The results speak for themselves: a decline of border arrivals from the Northern Triangle, improved vaccine equity, and increased economic opportunities for women.'

When asked about the reports during her daily briefing, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said she tried not to 'speak to or engage on anonymous reports.'

'The vice president is an incredibly important partner to the president of the United States,' she added.

'She has a challenging job, a hard job and she has a great supportive team of people around her.'

Cedric Richmond, senior adviser to Biden, dismissed the anonymous criticism, saying: 'It's a whisper campaign designed to sabotage her.'

He said she remained in high demand for public events.

'At some point it just becomes, one person says something long enough and it becomes an urban legend,' he said.

'It doesn't have to be credible. It doesn't have to be real. Someone says something and it can just snowball.'

Cedric Richmond, a senior adviser to Biden, dismissed the anonymous criticism as a 'whispering campaign.' He said: 'It doesnt have to be credible. It doesnt have to be real. Someone says something and it can just snowball'

Even so, the allegations will be treated with alarm inside an administration that knows Biden will be 81 at the time of the next election and has done much to promote Harris as the last person in the room when decisions are taken, setting her up for a possible primary run.

The sources claimed that President Biden's office was concerned about the treatment of staff.

Biden, on the day he was inaugurated, warned presidential appointees while swearing them in that he would fire them 'on the spot' if he were to hear that they have shown 'disrespect' others.

'I'm not joking when I say this: If you're ever working with me and I hear you treat another colleague with disrespect or talk down to someone, I promise you, I will fire you on the spot  on the spot. No ifs ands or buts,' Biden said at the time.

Flournoy has allegedly created an environment where 'ideas are ignored or met with harsh dismissals and decisions are dragged out,' the outlet reported. She allegedly 'refuses to take responsibility' and blames staffers for negative results.

Some of the sources told Politico that Harris also is responsible for how her office is run, claiming that the toxic environment 'all starts at the top.'

Harris aides are reportedly already looking to leave the administration while some already have - like staffers Karly Satkowiak and Gabrielle DeFranceschi, who oversaw the vice president's travel.

Satkowiak and DeFranceschi left under what had been described as 'long-planned departures' but sources contested that characterization to Politico.

DeFranceschi, who previously worked in the Obama administration, reportedly left over a 'difference in opinion on how things should run.'

'If you have an opinion about how things should run and it's not listened to, that can be frustrating,' the source told Politico.

Harris' chief spokesperson Symone Sanders, pushed back against the claims and called those who made them 'cowards,' according to Politico.

'People are cowards to do this this way,' Sanders said.

She added: 'We are not making rainbows and bunnies all day. What I hear is that people have hard jobs and I'm like 'welcome to the club.'

'We have created a culture where people, if there is anything anyone would like to raise, there are avenues for them to do so. Whoever has something they would like to raise, they should raise it directly.'

Sanders also said that Harris 'is focused on the work' and 'not the chatter at the water cooler.'

The chief spokesperson also defended Flournoy and said she has an 'open door policy' and that 'black women like me would not have the opportunity to work in politics without Tina.'

Bill Clinton defended Kamala Harris' embattled chief of staff after the vice president's office was rocked by a report in which staffers claimed they are 'treated like sh**' and that Tina Flournoy has created 'blame culture'

Bill Clinton also came to the defense of Flournoy, who ran his post-White House office.

'Tina Flournoy ran my office for more than eight years, making it more efficient, effective, and transparent. She made it easier, not harder, for me to advance my philanthropic work and my post-presidential activities, and keep in touch with my friends,' he said in a statement to CNBC.

'She has a unique ability to focus on the big picture and adapt to changing conditions. And she does it all with a great sense of humor and an unwavering belief that we all have an ability and an obligation to make a difference.'

Jennifer Palmieri, who worked in the Obama White House and Hillary Clinton's 2016 campaign, said sometimes chiefs of staff just weren't popular.

'Sounds like what's happening here is that Tina Flournoy is doing her job. Chiefs of staff gotta run interference. Doesn't always make you popular. But it's part of the job. Protect the boss' time,' she wrote on Twitter.

Others who spoke to Politico to defend Harris and Flournoy said that black women were held to standards that others in politics are not - and that a 'demanding office environment' would be seen as a virtue for other leaders.

'Look, [Tina's] strong, she's intelligent, she's driven, and she expects strong, intelligent, driven people around her,' said Leah Daughtry.

'But some people may find strong, driven, smart people intimidating, but I think that's more projection than reality because that's just not Tina's intent or style. And nothing in her experience would lead you to think that she's an intimidating person.'

Anita Dunn, a senior adviser to the president, also defended Flournoy.

Dunn said keeping the border trip news private to a small group of people was made because Harris' office didn't want it to leak or 'turn it into a spectacle,' Politico reported.

'It was closely held and there may be people whose feelings were a little hurt on her staff that they weren't brought into the discussion,' Dunn said.

'But any suggestion that it was mishandled or kept a secret from people who needed to know about the arrangements or needed to know about it is absolutely not true.'

When Politico asked Dunn about complaints in the office, Dunn said complaints were 'not anywhere near what you are describing.'

Flournoy previously worked in the White House under President Bill Clinton and then worked on his reelection campaign, as well as then-Vice President Al Gore's campaign for president in 2000.

She was working as Clinton's post-presidential chief of staff before she was tapped to work for Harris.

One source told Politico: 'People who Clinton knew for decades all of a sudden couldn't get through to him because Tina choked off contact.'

'Because Clinton didn't use email, she was able to keep many [friends of Bill] out,' the source said.

The source added: 'You can't just flat out ignore people and not get back to them.'

A friend of Harris' recently tried to reach Flournoy on behalf of a top Democratic donor but was also ignored, the outlet reported.

Vice President Kamala Harris participates in a roundtable discussion with faith and community leaders and local service providers, during a visit to the Paso del Norte Port of Entry on June 25

When they were ignored, the donor then contacted Harris' office directly and did not hear back for weeks. They were later told Harris was too busy to meet with them.

The friend told Politico: 'This is someone who has raised hundreds of thousands of dollarsmillions, evenfor your boss and you're just blowing them off?'

'Next time Kamala wants [them] for something, it's like, 'Hey, I couldn't even get a call-back from your chief of staff!',' the friend said.

Some Harris allies explained to Politico that the vice president has 'gone out of her way not to engage in politicking' to prove her loyalty to Biden as it remains unclear if he will run for reelection in 2024.

Other allies explained Harris' apparent strategy of not raising her own profile as 'foolish' for someone who has 'been in public life for 30 years.'

'You don't just all of a sudden go radio silent,' said one former aide.

That former aide indicated that Harris is likely aware of the purported problems in her office.

'She is the most perceptive person on the planet. She might not have first-hand knowledge, but it's hard to imagine she doesn't have a sense of what's going on,' the person said.

The sources who spoke to Politico blamed some of the low morale in Harris' office on the issues she has been tasked with tackling for the Biden administration which made her an early target for conservatives - such as slowing the flow of migrants.

Instead of flying to the border, Harris had flown to the countries where the migrants had come from or traveled through on their way to the United States.

Harris finally visited the border weeks later as her aides insisted she did not make the trek because of criticism she faced. But others claimed she inadvertently seemed to affirm conservative criticism against her with the seemingly impromptu trip.
Black Lives Matter has blamed the 'cruel and inhumane' US for the current unrest in Cuba, as the activists praised the Communist regime for harboring a convicted US cop killer and for its 'solidarity' with oppressed people.

The group sparked a furious backlash with the statement shared online following a week of violence on the island and furious protests over food shortages and rising prices.

BLM accused the US of causing the instability with its embargoes which have caused 'pain and suffering' for Cubans for 60 years in the message which was branded 'worse than embarrassing'.

The group also praised Cuba for harboring Assata Shakur, a US convicted cop killer and former Black Panther who has been in hiding on the island for nearly 40 years.

Black Lives Matter has blamed the 'cruel and inhumane US for the current unrest in Cuba as the activists praised the communist government

Sen. Marco Rubio slammed the statement, saying: 'The extortionist ring known as the Black Lives Matter organization took a break today from shaking down corporations for millions & buying themselves mansions to share their support for the Communist regime in #Cuba.'

In a post shared to its 4.5million Instagram followers, BLM said: 'Black Lives Matter condemns the US federal government's inhumane treatment of Cubans, and urges it to immediately lift the economic embargo.

'This cruel and inhumane policy, instituted with the explicit intention of destabilizing the country and undermining Cubans' right to choose their own government, is at the heart of Cuba's current crisis.

'Since 1962, the United States has forced pain and suffering on the people of Cuba by cutting off food, medicine and supplies, costing the tiny island nation an estimated $130billion.

BLM accused the US of causing the instability with its embargoes which have caused 'pain and suffering' for Cubans for 60 years. Pictured: protests against Cuban government in Miami

Sen. Marco Rubio slammed the statement from the 'extortionist ring' following the week of unrest

'Without that money, it is harder for Cuba to acquire medical equipment needed to develop its own Covid-19 vaccines and equipment for food production. This comes in spite of the country's strong medical care and history of lending doctors and nurses to disasters around the world.'

On Monday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken denied claims the US was to blame for the unrest.

He said a mismanaged economy was the root of the problems, which have seen people take to the streets.

BLM's statement continued: 'The people of Cuba are being punished by the US government because the country has maintained its commitment to sovereignty and self-determination.

'United States leaders have tried to crush this revolution for decades. Instead of international amity, respect and goodwill, the US government has only instigated suffering for the country's 11 million people - of which four million are Black and Brown.

Rubio warned on Wednesday that Cuba faces a 'horrific bloodbath' if the Biden administration doesn't step in

'Cuba has historically demonstrated solidarity with oppressed peoples of African descent, from protecting Black revolutionaries like Assata Shakur through granting her asylum, to supporting Black liberation struggles in Angola, Mozambique, Guinea Bissau and South Africa.

'Now, we look to President Biden to end the embargo, something Barack Obama called for in 2016. This embargo is a blatant human rights violation and it must come to an end.'

Shakur, a former member of the Black Liberation Army, was convicted of being an accomplice to the murder of State Trooper Werner Foerster in 1973.

At the time, she was also wanted for several felonies, including bank robber counts in New York and was known for her membership of the Black Panthers.

Shakur was with two other people when they were pulled over on the New Jersey Turnpike. The three opened fire on the troopers.

Passenger James Coston was shot and killed by Officer James Harper. The shootout continued until Shakur, having shot and killed Foerster execution-style fled the scene with the surviving passenger, who remains in prison.

Both were apprehended by police shortly thereafter.

Cuban American demonstrators gather in the Little Havana section of Miami on Wednesday to protest the government

Shakur, a former member of the Black Liberation Army, was convicted of being an accomplice to the murder of State Trooper Werner Foerster in 1973

Shakur denied having shot anyone, but was sentenced to life in prison. She escaped from the Clinton Correctional Facility for Women in 1979. She resurfaced in Cuba where she was granted asylum by Fidel Castro and where she has lived ever since.

Considered an armed and dangerous domestic terrorist, she is still wanted by the FBI and there is a $2million reward for her capture.

The godmother and aunt of the late rapper Tupac Shakur also became the first woman on the FBI's list of top 10 most wanted terrorists.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel on Wednesday acknowledged shortcomings in his government's handling of shortages and of neglecting certain sectors, but he urged Cubans to not act with hate - a reference to violence during recent street protests

Many online shared their outrage at the BLM statement, with Donald Trump reelection strategist Giancarlo Sopo branding it 'disgusting'.

He said: 'Despite the Cuban dictatorship's murdering and beating of protestors (many of them Black), BLM's statement on Cubacondemns the U.S., praises the Castro regime, and makes no mention of the atrocities being committed by the dictatorship.'

Meanwhile Joe Walsh, the former Illinois Republican, said: 'BLM blames the United States, pretty much exclusively, for what's happening in Cuba.

'BLM actually stands with Cuba's oppressive, dictatorial government. This BLM statement is way worse than embarrassing.'

On Wednesday, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel acknowledged shortcomings in his government's handling of shortages and of neglecting certain sectors, but urged Cubans not to act with hate.

In a nighttime address on state television, Diaz-Canel admitted that failings by the state played a role in the protests.

'We have to gain experience from the disturbances,' he said.

Thousands of Cubans took to the streets from Havana to Santiago on Sunday chanting 'down with the dictatorship' in the biggest anti-government demonstrations on the Communist-run island in decades

A man is arrested during a demonstration against the government of Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel in Havana on Sunday

'We also have to carry out a critical analysis of our problems in order to act and overcome, and avoid their repetition.'

The president's comments came as pressure mounted on the Biden administration to take action in support of antigovernment protesters on the island.

Dozens of Cuban Americans and their supporters gathered outside a Cuban restaurant in the Little Havana section of Miami on Wednesday for the fourth straight day to demand Biden intervene.

Rubio warned on Wednesday that Cuba faces a 'horrific bloodbath' if the Biden administration doesn't step in - while White House press secretary Jen Psaki refused to condemn the Communist regime amid a state crackdown on demonstrations in Cuba and instead blamed 'government mismanagement'.

'A horrific bloodbath is what awaits if action is not taken. So far the response has been weak, weak. Why?' Rubio tweeted with a video on Wednesday.

Riot police who were clad in black body armour and helmets while carrying batons and shields were seen arresting dozens of demonstrators who had gone out to protest again on Monday

'What I have asked the Biden administration to do - and I asked them two days ago to do - is I asked them to use diplomacy that they brag about,' Rubio said.

'Convene the United Nations, convene the Organization of American States in emergency session.

'Pressure or shame the international community into condemning and isolating that regime, and pressure them to be prepared to take action to prevent a bloodbath,' he said.

'Not halfway around the world, not in the Middle East, not in another continent, right here, 90 miles from our shores.'

Cuba is suffering its worst crisis in years from a combination of the coronavirus pandemic that has paralyzed its economy, including the vital tourism industry, inefficiencies in the state-run economy and the tightening of US sanctions on the island.

Riot police walk the streets of Havana on Monday as protesters carry wooden bats

The administration of former President Donald Trump imposed more than 200 measures against the island in four years.

Diaz-Canel said that this 'complex situation' was taken advantage of 'by those who do not really want the Cuban revolution to develop or a civilized relationship with respect with the United States.'

Biden called Cuba an 'authoritarian' regime even as the White House refused to get cajoled into going after its ideology.

'The Cuban people are demanding their freedom from an authoritarian regime,' Biden said in a statement Monday.
The European Union's top court has ruled that employers may forbid the wearing of visible symbols of religious or political belief, such as headscarves.

But the Luxembourg-based tribunal said in its ruling that courts in the bloc's 27 member states should weigh up whether the ban corresponded to a 'genuine need' on the part of the employer.

They must also consider the rights and interests of the employee, including by taking into account national legislation on freedom of religion, it said.

The case was brought to the Court of Justice of the European Union by two women in Germany who chose to wear Islamic headscarves at their workplaces. One works as a special needs carer while the other is a sales assistant and cashier.

The European Union's top court has ruled that employers may forbid the wearing of visible symbols of religious or political belief, such as headscarves (file photo)

Both filed legal complaints before German courts, which in turn referred questions to the EU tribunal.

The issue of the hijab, the traditional headscarf worn around the head and shoulders, has caused controversy across Europe for years and underlined sharp differences over integrating Muslims.

In the cases brought to court, both Muslim women did not wear headscarves when they started in their jobs, but decided to do so years later after coming back from parental leave.

They were told that this was not allowed, and were at different points either suspended, told to come to work without it or put on a different job, court documents show.

The EU court had to decide in both cases whether headscarf bans at work representation a violation of the freedom of religion or were allowed as part of the freedom to conduct a business and the wish to project an image of neutrality to customers.

Its response was that such bans were possible if justified by an employer's need to present a neutral image.

Luxembourg-based tribunal said in its ruling that courts in the bloc's 27 member states should weigh up whether the ban corresponded to a 'genuine need' on the part of the employer

The court said: 'A prohibition on wearing any visible form of expression of political, philosophical or religious beliefs in the workplace may be justified by the employer's need to present a neutral image towards customers or to prevent social disputes.'

However, that justification must correspond to a genuine need on the part of the employer, it said.

In the case of the care centre employee, the court said the rule at issue appeared to have been applied in a general and indifferentiated way, since the employer also required an employee wearing a religious cross to remove that sign.

In both cases, it will now be up to national courts to have the final say on whether there was any discrimination.

The EU court already ruled in 2017 that companies may ban staff from wearing Islamic headscarves and other visible religious symbols under certain conditions, sparking a backlash among faith groups.

More than five million Muslims live in Germany, making them the largest religious minority group there.

They must also consider the rights and interests of the employee, including by taking into account national legislation on freedom of religion, it said

Headscarf bans for women at work have been a hotly contested issue in Germany for years, mostly with regard to aspiring teachers at state schools and trainee judges.

This has not so far been a major theme in the campaign for this year's legislative elections.

Elsewhere in Europe, courts have also had a look into where and how headscarves can sometimes be banned at work.

France's top court upheld in 2014 the dismissal of a Muslim day care worker for wearing a headscarf at a private creche that demanded strict neutrality from employees.

France, home to Europe's largest Muslim minority, prohibited the wearing of Islamic headscarves in state schools in 2004.

However, Austria's constitutional court has ruled that a law there banning girls aged up to 10 from wearing headscarves in schools was discriminatory.
England's mask shambles descended further into farce today as police officers were told to keep wearing them after Monday's end to lockdown.

The National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) has written to all forces advising that existing infection control measures should continue, despite face coverings no longer being required by law.

It came after the Government's own advice to businesses on reopening work premises from July 19 last night recommended bosses encourage the wearing of masks indoors.

The First Ministers of Scotland and Wales have also said they will keep laws requiring masks to be worn in most indoor settings after their loosen their own lockdowns next week.

And London mayor Sadiq Khan has already ruled that masks will be required on London transport.

Wales' First Minister Mark Drakeford said today that Boris Johnson's decision to make masks optional in England - and rely on the common sense of the public - was an 'outlier' and it would be better if England followed his and Nicola Sturgeon's example.

But Cabinet minister Robert Jenrick today insisted that as the vaccine rollout continues it is right to allow individuals and businesses to make their own judgments about what precautions to take.

The National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) has written to all forces advising that existing infection control measures should continue, despite face coverings no longer being required by law.

Wales' First Minister Mark Drakeford said today that Boris Johnson's decision to make masks optional in England - and rely on the common sense of the public - was an 'outlier' and it would be better if England followed his and Nicola Sturgeon's example.

But Cabinet minister Robert Jenrick today insisted that as the vaccine rollout continues it is right to allow individuals and businesses to make their own judgments about what precautions to take.

Police will still wear face masks after Monday, the NPCC leader said today. Chairman Martin Hewitt said: 'As employers, chief constables have a responsibility to do everything they can to keep their staff and officers safe.

'The nature of policing means officers are often in close contact with members of the public, are dealing with vulnerable people and going into different homes. That's why we will continue for now with our current infection control measures, like the use of face masks.

'We also want to ensure our officers and staff are as protected as possible so they can be there for the public and we minimise the risk of large numbers either being off sick or self-isolating.'

The latest Government guidance, issued on Wednesday, says it 'expects and recommends' masks to be worn by workers and customers in crowded, enclosed spaces as the work-from-home order ends.

Table service is recommended to continue in bars, while pubs, restaurants and nightclubs are encouraged to check vaccine and testing status as a condition of entry through the NHS Covid Pass.

Supermarket giant Sainsbury's said it will encourage customers to continue wearing masks, while the Labour metro mayors for West Yorkshire, Greater Manchester, Liverpool City Region, North of Tyne, West of England and South Yorkshire said they will require mask use on public transport networks where their limited powers allow it.

London Mayor Mr Khan has said he will use his greater powers to enforce the wearing of masks on the capital's transport network as a 'condition of carriage'.

Communities Secretary Mr Jenrick today denied rules have become a 'total shambles' as ministers prepare to end lockdown restrictions in England.

Appearing on ITV's Good Morning Britain he said: 'No, I don't accept that.

'As a result of the vaccine rollout we are able to move into a new phase and that's one where we all exercise our own personal judgment.

'But also businesses and those people who are operating public transport networks, for example, will also make judgments about what is right for their settings. I think that is a sensible way forward.'

Mr Drakeford said it is 'difficult' for people in England to know exactly what is required of them and he urged the Government at Westminster to stick to a four-nation approach.

'It is the UK Government that is the outlier and if they were prepared to bring themselves into line with the decisions that have been made in Scotland and in Wales, for example, that would be clearer and simpler for everybody,' he told Good Morning Britain.

Masks farce continues: Train passengers will have to put face coverings on when they cross the border from England into Wales, First Minister Mark Drakeford confirms

Mark Drakeford said people arriving from England by train would be required to don a face covering as soon as they entered Wales.

The Welsh First Minister said he hoped people would observe the 'clear' advice on face coverings given by Boris Johnson but that the practice would be a legal requirement in Wales.

However he said he had not expressed his concerns over the UK Government's changes to the quarantine rules for those who have been double jabbed returning to England from amber list countries.

Mr Drakeford told BBC Breakfast: 'The people who run the transport system will make sure that people are aware that as they come into Wales different rules apply.

'If you travel into Wales by road now you will see signs that say 'Welsh rules apply'. That will be true on trains and other forms of transport as well.

'I hope people will observe the clear advice of the prime minister in England, that they should continue to wear face coverings on public transport.

'Here in Wales the rule will be clear, it isn't simply advice, it's what the law will require.'

Asked when he had last spoken to the Prime Minister, Mr Drakeford replied: 'I've had one telephone conversation with the Prime Minister since our election on May 6 and we've had one meeting where the first ministers met with the Prime Minister.

The Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford said masks had to by put on by law in Wales

It means those travelling after Freedom Day by train will have to wear them after border cross

Wales has and will have different rules to those in England following the July 19 unlocking

'That was a more lengthy meeting, a proper meeting, so those have been the contacts that I've had.'

Mr Drakeford said yesterday that Wales will move fully into alert Level 1 from July 17 - following a four-week pause due to the rise of the Delta variant. If infection rates then remain stable and even more people are vaccinated, Wales will move to Level 0 on August 7.

'The virus is still with us and we know many people are still anxious about going out and about,' Mr Drakeford said.

'Social distancing requirements and mask rules will remain indoors from 17 July. But we will gradually ease masks as the public health risk decreases.'

From July 17, up to six people can meet indoors in private homes and holiday accommodation, organised indoor events can take place for up to 1,000 people seated and up to 200 standing, and ice rinks can reopen.

Mr Drakeford said: 'We are entering a new phase of the pandemic. Cases of the virus have risen sharply since the Delta variant emerged six weeks ago but, thanks to our fantastic vaccination programme, we are not seeing these translate into large numbers of people falling seriously ill or needing hospital treatment.

'We can be reasonably confident that vaccination has weakened the link between infections and serious illness.

'But there is still a risk that this third wave of the pandemic could cause real harm - either direct harm from the virus or indirect harm from, for example, people having to isolate.

Mr Drakeford said Wales was 'entering a new phase of the pandemic' after cases rose

'We can move to alert Level 1 for indoor spaces from July 17 and go further for outdoor spaces because we know the risk of transmission outdoors is lower.

'We are also publishing plans for a new alert Level 0, which will have fewer legal restrictions but which will still need all of us to take steps to protect ourselves.'

The country's incidence rate is currently 147 cases of Covid-19 per 100,000 people - the lowest in the UK - and it also has one of the highest vaccination rates in the world.

On Tuesday, there were 69 people in Welsh hospitals with Covid-19.

If Wales moves to alert Level 0 on August 7, all premises will be able to open and most - but not all - restrictions will be removed and replaced with the ongoing requirement for all organisations and businesses to carry out Covid risk assessments.

There will also be no legal limit on the number of people who can meet others indoors, including in private homes.

Face coverings will continue to be required by law in most indoor public places and on public transport, with the exception of hospitality settings.

Mr Drakeford said: 'The pandemic is not over and the virus continues to spread across Wales, which makes it really important for everyone to say yes to vaccination and to do everything we can to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.

'Even though vaccines have weakened the link between the virus and hospitalisation, we are seeing young, fit people suffer from long Covid, which, for some, has a major impact on their lives.

'We have the headroom to continue to gradually remove restrictions, but each and every one of us has a really important part to play to keep Wales safe as we head into the summer.'

Mr Drakeford also confirmed that people who have who have been fully vaccinated in the UK will no longer need to self-isolate if they are returning from an amber list country, in line with the position in England and Scotland.
Six British teenagers from a top girls' private school are trapped in a quarantine hotel in Greece for two weeks after just one of them tested positive for Covid.

The girls, all pupils at the 41,250-a-year Wycombe Abbey School in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, were celebrating the end of their A-levels on the party island of Zante when they were preparing to fly home on Saturday.

But when they took their Covid lateral flow tests required before they got to the airport, one of the girls tested positive, throwing their travel plans into chaos.

Elise Dunweber, mother of one of the girls, told how they had their passports taken from them at 2am and they were effectively kidnapped by police in a patrol car and taken to a quarantine hotel where they must remain for 14 days.

Speaking to MailOnline, Mrs Dunweber, 44, said: 'It has been a terrifying ordeal for them. They are stuck in Greece while we are at home and we can't do anything to help them. It just goes to show the confusion that lots of holidaymakers are facing at the moment with covid and isolation. The rules aren't clear, it's chaotic and no one knows what's going on.'

The girls are stuck in a quarantine hotel (pictured) on the Greek party island of Zante for a fortnight after just one of them tested positive for Covid meaning the others must isolate

The pupils - aged 17 and 18 - are not allowed to leave the hotel (pictured) for two weeks

They will stay in these rooms after they were prevented from leaving Greece on Saturday

They had been in Zante (pictured) for one week to celebrate the end of their A-level exams

The girls' case has been taken up by Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab. While the Foreign Office said it could not interfere with another country's Covid quarantine rules, their case is being looked at by consular officials.

The drama began on Saturday when the eight girls on holiday - seven of them aged 18 and one aged 17 - followed the rules by taking coronavirus tests in time for them to fly home on Sunday.

One of the 18-year-olds who was said to be staying in a separate part of their Airbnb accommodation tested positive and was told she would have to isolate. She was picked up by ambulance despite the fact that she was not ill and had no symptoms.

But the other seven girls were all give fitness to fly certificates to leave the island after testing negative.

They claim they were told by the doctor who conducted their tests that they were free to fly as long as they went straight to the airport.

Elisa Dunweber (above), 44, is mother to one of the girls on the ill-fated trip to Greece

All seven went to the airport. Two of them managed to get on a flight to Athens, and the other five waited for their flight early on Sunday morning.

They were then contacted by the girl who had tested positive who said that the police were looking for them. They were then picked up by officers at the airport.

Mrs Dunweber said: 'My daughter called me and asked the officers to speak to me because she and her friends did not feel comfortable about getting in the car.

'I heard them shouting, 'Get in the car, get in the car'. We are not speaking to anyone. My daughter tried to say that she was a minor, but they still wouldn't speak to me.

'They were taken off in the cars in the dead of night at 2am without knowing where they were going.

'They took them to this hotel where they spent 20 minutes talking in Greek to the owner. The girls didn't have a clue what was going on.

'Then when the police left, the manager said, 'You have got to come inside and stay for 14 days'. There was no further explanation whatsoever, and they realised they were in a quarantine hotel.

'I managed to get on the phone to the manager, and he said, 'Don't worry, I will look after your girls'.

'He told me they would all have to stay in separate rooms, and it turned out that the girl who tested positive was also taken there.'

'The police found them at the airport and told them that they would have to go with them.

'They took their passports and took pictures of them and they were made to hang around before being told to get in a police car and a taxi.

The girls are all aged 17 and 18 and from the 41,250-a-year Wycombe Abbey School in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire. They were in Zante celebrating the end of their A-levels

'They were being told they were being taken to a doctor to have further medical examinations and if they were negative they could go back to the airport.'

Instead they were taken in the middle of the night to the Keri Village & Spa hotel, paid for by the Greek authorities.

Mrs Dunweber, a mother-of-four, who has homes in London and Spain, stood as a Conservative candidate in the 2015 general election and is a patron of the Conservative Animal Welfare Foundation which also has Boris Johnson's wife Carrie as patron.

She said she was concerned that the girls had been told they would have to stay there for the entire 14 days. They were told that they would not be able to be tested again before the end of the quarantine period, meaning they would have no hope of leaving early. She is questioning why the girls are being treated so harshly with no possibility of them being allowed to take further tests.

'They were petrified by the way they were taken away by police at 2am in the morning,' she said. 'They didn't know where they were going and it was very stressful for them.

'We just don't want the same thing to happen to any other people.

'The Greek press has been making out that they had all fled from their quarantine accommodation and had been caught by the police while trying to flee the country

'But that is absolute rubbish, because they had just been in an Airbnb house and had permission to fly.

'They are all good girls. They are polite and well educated . They are not criminals and at every point they have done what they have been told to do.

'I just find it bizarre how they are being treated. They are in basic rooms, but they are all in good spirits and they are just waiting to get out.'
Shark attacks in Australia are to be rebranded as 'negative encounters' to avoid scaring people away from public beaches.

In parts of the country, officials will start to refer to attacks as 'bites' instead in an attempt to change the animals' image as a 'man-eating monster'.

Queensland and New South Wales are shifting away from using the term attack, in a move which scientists say is welcome and overdue.

The Department of Primary Industries in NSW describes an encounter as 'incidents' or 'interactions' in their official reports, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.

Shark attacks in Australia are to be rebranded as 'negative encounters' to avoid scaring people away from public beaches and in an attempt to change the animals' image as a 'man-eating monster' (file photo)

Researchers say encounters were dubbed as 'accidents' before the 1930s when surgeon Victor Coppleson began to describe them as attacks.

Leonardo Guida, a shark researcher at the Australian Marine Conservation Society, said that the word choice can be 'potent' because public fears can be inflamed by language used by politicians and the media.

Dr Guida said that changing language used around the incidents is important 'because it helps dispel inherent assumptions that sharks are ravenous, mindless man-eating monsters.'

He added that changing the terminology would mean that the public better understand sharks and how they behave.

Two spearfishers recorded the moment they were caught in the middle of a shark feeding frenzy while diving off the coast of Western Australia and the video was shared earlier this week

Christopher Pepin-Neff said that describing an incident as an 'attack' is a lie because more than a third of encounters between sharks and humans left no injury at all, with many being minor bites from small sharks.

Shark experts note that they can be predatory when breaching the surface and snapping seals in their jaws.

Associate professor at Macquarie University Nathan Hart notes that sharks use their mouths to explore something because they don't have hands, adding that humans are 'very rarely' consumed by the fish.

Drone footage shows that sharks, despite regularly swimming close to surfers for extended periods of time, only very rarely bite.

Two spearfishers recorded the moment they were caught in the middle of a shark feeding frenzy while diving off the coast of Western Australia and the video was shared earlier this week.

Diving for mackerel off the coast of Dirk Hartog Island, Chris Hodgkinson and Nick Hoad immediately attracted a hungry shark after shooting a fish with his speargun.
A 'popular' 16-year-old boy who was stabbed to death in south London last week has been named by police as Demarie Omare Roye (pictured)

A 'popular' 16-year-old boy who was stabbed to death in south London has been pictured - as a 19-year-old man is charged with his murder.

Demarie Omare Roye was rushed to hospital by terrified members of the public who found him stabbed in Thornton Heath shortly before 3pm last Friday.

Medics battled to save Demarie, but he tragically died in hospital on Sunday.

A post-mortem carried out on Wednesday found his cause of death to be a stab wound.

Two men aged 19 and 22 were arrested in Croydon over his murder - as detectives continue to appeal for witnesses to come forward with information.

The 19-year-old, Byron Whyne, was later charged with murder.

Police are also looking to trace a dark-coloured moped which could have been 'concealed, abandoned, parked or ridden' in the area around the time of the killing.

His death on July 9 came just four days after Keane Flynn-Harling, 16, was stabbed to death in Lambeth on July 5.

And, just hours earlier, 15-year-old Tamim Ian Habimana was killed in Woolwich, southeast London in front of horrified onlookers in broad daylight.

Byron Whyne was arrested on suspicion of murder following Demarie's death and he remains in custody at a south London police station.

Demarie was rushed to hospital by terrified members of the public who found him stabbed in Thornton Heath (police at the scene, pictured) shortly before 3pm last Friday

The 22-year-old man was first arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A drugs. He was later further arrested on suspicion of murder.

The latter suspect has since been released under investigation, police said.

Detective chief inspector Kate Blackburn, who is leading the Met's investigation, said: 'Demarie was a young man who was popular among those that knew him.

'His death has caused unimaginable devastation to his family and friends.

'The investigation into his murder is moving at a fast pace and I continue to appeal for witnesses that were in or around Bensham Manor Road on Friday, July 9 at around 2.45pm to contact us.

'We believe that Demarie may have been riding a blue mountain bike before the attack.

Medics battled to save Demarie, but he tragically died in hospital on Sunday. Pictured: Police at the scene

'Anyone that may have seen him in the area - with or without the bike - or who witnessed the attack, is urged to get in touch with the police.

'I am also asking members of the community if they have seen a dark-coloured moped concealed, abandoned, parked or even being ridden around the Thornton Heath area before or after the murder. This moped may or may not have had a number plate on it.

'If you know where the moped is or have any other information that could be useful to our investigation - no matter how insignificant it may seem - please get in touch with us immediately.'
Deaths directly caused by alcohol soared by 20 per cent during the first year of the Covid pandemic, Government figures revealed today.

Public Health England chiefs say the endless cycle of lockdowns swayed people into binge-drinking at home.

Data shows there were 6,893 deaths blamed on alcohol in 2020, compared to 5,819 in 2019 before the virus reached Britain.

The North East was hit hardest, with fatalities spiking by almost 80 per cent.

Drinking too much alcohol can kill by causing liver damage, as well as cancer.

Deaths caused by alcohol have been increasing for a decade but ministers called the jump during the pandemic 'deeply concerning'.

They pledged to increase treatment options for alcohol dependence, with 3.3billion in place for public health services over the next year.

But Labour hit out at No10 for slashing addiction services and 'doing nothing to give people who need help with addiction the support they need'.

Charities urged No10 to address mounting alcohol abuse following the pandemic to prevent a 'liver disease epidemic' after 'Freedom Day' on Monday.

Deaths directly caused by alcohol reached record levels last year after Covid lockdowns drove binge drinking at home, a study by Public Health England has suggested. Graph shows: The number of alcohol-specific deaths per 100,000 in England each month in 2021, 2020 and the baseline average taken from 2018 and 2019

Despite pubs, clubs and restaurants during the national lockdowns, the total amount of alcohol released for sale during the pandemic was still similar to the pre-pandemic years, suggesting people were drinking more at home, PHE said

Three separate surveys showed the proportion of people admitting they were drinking more increased to nearly 30 per cent from the start of the first lockdown to summer

PHE data showed the number of alcoholic liver deaths  caused by a build-up of fat on the organ caused by excessive drinking  jumped 21 per cent from 2019 to 2020.

The biggest increase in drinking during lockdown was seen in the North East, which peaked at 28.4 deaths per 100,000 population in July.

This was 79.7 per cent higher than the the average figure for the same time in 2018 and 2019.

Despite pubs, bars and restaurants being shut for several months during lockdowns, the total amount of alcohol sold last year was still similar to the pre-pandemic years, PHE said.

An extra 12.6million litres of alcohol were sold in shops and supermarkets in 2020/21 compared to 2019/20, the report also claimed.

And the number of men and women drinking at a 'high risk level' increased by 58.6 per cent during the lockdown in March this year compared to the year before.

The amount of people drinking at high risk levels  50 units for men, 35 for women  was also highest in March this year, having risen in the first lockdown and stayed at high levels throughout the pandemic.

Unplanned hospital admissions for alcoholic liver disease per 100,000 increased by 3.2 per cent between 2019 and 2020

And the number of men and women drinking at a 'high risk level' increased by 58.6 per cent during the lockdown in March this year compared to the year before

The data shows across 2020 and 2021, alcoholic liver deaths peaked in March this year at a rate of 12 per 100,000 population.

This was 46.3 per cent higher than the average for March in 2018 and 2019.

PHE's director of drugs, alcohol, tobacco and justice Rosanna O' Connor said: 'Our research suggests that lockdown has affected heavy drinkers the most and that they are drinking more.

'Liver disease is currently the second leading cause of premature death in people of working age and this is only set to get worse if the Covid pandemic results in a long-term increase in drinking.

WHAT IS ALCOHOLIC FATTY LIVER DISEASE? Alcoholic fatty liver disease is caused by too much fat being stored in the organ's cells. The disease can cause scarring and irreversible damage to the liver, and can progress to cirrhosis (scarring) and organ failure. Fatty liver disease usually causes no signs and symptoms, but they can include an enlarged liver, fatigue and abdomen pain. The illness is caused by obesity, insulin resistance, high blood sugar and high levels of fat in the blood. Risk of contracting the disease is increased in people who drink excessively regularly. It is reversible. If you stop drinking alcohol for 2 weeks, your liver should return to normal. Source: NHS and Mayo Clinic Advertisement

'Tackling harmful drinking must be an essential part of the Covid recovery plan.

'If you're worried about your drinking speak with your GP or get in touch with your local alcohol services.'

Although alcohol related cirrhosis can take a decade or more to develop, most alcohol deaths occur because of liver failure due to recent heavy drinking. Liver mortality rates in England increased 43 per cent between 2001 and 2019, and now liver disease is the second leading disease causing premature death among people of working age.

Conservative Minister for Public Health Jo Churchill said: 'This evidence of increased alcohol-related harm during the pandemic is deeply concerning.

'I am committed to addressing this and widening the availability of treatment services at both a local and national level.

'The new Office for Health Promotion will spearhead our efforts to improve treatment and level up outcomes.

'Over the last year, providers have continued to support and treat people misusing alcohol and we are backing local authorities, who know their communities best, with over 3.3billion in 2021-2022 to spend on public health services including alcohol treatment.'

But Labour's Shadow Health Secretary Jonathan Ashworth slammed the Government for cutting funding on addiction services.

He said: 'This is yet another tragic reminder of the devastating toll of alcohol addiction.

'Addiction services have seen budgets slashed under the Tories leaving those needing specialist help abandoned.

'Sajid Javid's top down NHS reorganisation that he is now pursuing will sideline public health services and undermine attempts to tackle the addiction crisis, doing nothing to give people who need help with addiction the support they need.'

Some 26million worth of drug and alcohol dependence services were cut between 2013 and 2020.

Analysis by the Royal College of Psychiatrists found that eight of the nine regions in England made real terms cuts.

Services were hit hardest in the North West (9.3million), West Midlands (7.6m), and London (4.6million).

And the chief executive of the British Liver Trust called for 'urgent action' from the Government.

Pamela Healy said: 'Covid restrictions may have eased but now were starting to see the long-term effects of the pandemic in other areas of public health.

'We need urgent action to tackle the complex underlying causes of excess alcohol consumption to avoid a liver disease epidemic in the future.'
Boris Johnson vowed more investment and more powers for local mayors to 'level up' Red Wall areas today - as he scrambled to reassure traditional Conservative heartlands that they will not be left out in the cold.

The Prime Minister insisted that his drive to boost Midlands and Northern areas where the Tories have been surging politically does not mean 'rich areas get poorer'.

Speaking in Coventry, he said it is an 'outrage' that people in Blackpool have far lower life expectancy than in other wealthier areas.

And he stressed that many of the differences were within regions - pointing out the striking variation in fortunes between Leeds and Bradford.

Mr Johnson said fuelling the economy in other parts of the UK would not be 'bad for London', arguing it means 'more customers and more business for our national metropolis'.

The premier said the UK was the most 'unbalanced' developed economies in the world and had been 'firing on one cylinder' for too long.

'Levelling up is not a jam spreading operation,' he said. 'It is win-win for the whole UK.'

But despite floating new 'county' mayors, Mr Johnson admitted he only had the 'skeleton' of what needed to be done as he came under fire for a lack of detail in his keynote speech.

Former No10 chief Dominic Cummings bluntly branded the address 'cr**' and said the 'levelling up' slogan was 'vapid'.

The intervention was designed to soothe Tory jitters over last month's Chesham and Amersham by-election defeat to the Liberal Democrats.

Boris Johnson delivered his levelling up speech at the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre in Coventry, where he was given a tour of the facilities

The PM was shown an electric racing car during his visit in Coventry today

The PM insisted that prosperous areas in the South East will benefit from spreading economic growth more widely

Former No10 chief Dominic Cummings bluntly branded the address 'cr**' and said the 'levelling up' slogan was 'vapid'

Key points from PM's 'levelling up' speech Boris Johnson said the UK is one of the most 'unbalanced' developed economies in the world and has been successful despite firing on 'one cylinder' - a reference to the strength of London. The PM denied that boosting the North and West Midlands would come at a price for the prosperous South East, saying it is not a 'jam spreading' exercise and there would be more customers and business. Mr Johnson said governments had invested too much in areas where house prices were 'sky high', as it forced more people to move there and drove prices even higher. He suggested giving more powers to metro mayors, and proposed there should also be directly elected mayors for individual counties. Mr Johnson hailed government funds for investing in left-behind areas, and infrastructure projects. He rejected criticism of a lack of detail about the 'levelling up' strategy but admitted he had only set out a 'skeleton' of what needed to be done. Advertisement

Mr Johnson warned that previous governments invested too much in 'areas where house prices are already sky high and transport is already congested'.

He added: 'By turbo-charging those areas, especially in London and the South East, you drive prices even higher and you force more and more people to move to the same expensive areas.

'And the result is that their commutes are longer, their trains are more crowded, they have less time with their kids.

'They worry at the same time that the younger generation won't be able to get a home and that their leafy suburb or village will be engulfed by new housing development but without the infrastructure to go with it.'

The PM insisted: 'We don't want to decapitate the tall poppies. We don't think you can make the poor parts of the country richer by making the rich parts poorer.'

Mr Johnson said the Government needed to 'rewrite the rulebook' and take a 'more flexible approach to devolution' in England.

'The UK will never fit into some cookie cutter division into regions named after points of the compass,' he said.

'But where there are obvious communities of identity and affinity and real economic geographies, there is a chance to encourage local leadership.'

Mr Johnson added local leaders in towns around the country should be 'given the tools to make things happen for their communities'.

'To do that we must take a more flexible approach to devolution in England,' he said.

'We need to rewrite the rulebook with new deals for the counties and there is no reason why our great counties cannot benefit from the same powers we've devolved to city leaders.'

He said: 'One possibility is a directly elected mayor for individual counties. And if you can think of a better title than mayor for somebody who represents a county then please send me an email.

Asked after the speech why he had yet to give more details of the 'levelling up' strategy, he said: 'I am respectfully going to urge you to just go back over some of what I said because I do think that in all fairness there was at least the skeleton of what to do.'

Town centre revival plan includes 10m chewing gum taskforce Boris Johnson today launched a town centre revival plan with a 10million taskforce to clean up chewing gum and a 'National High Streets Day' to boost local pride. The government is stepping up a campaign to rescue urban centres across England after they were 'hollowed out' during the pandemic. It wants to see derelict buildings transformed into new businesses or homes, while communities could get more opportunities to own local facilities such as pubs, theatres and sports grounds. The PM reiterated his determination to 'level up' the country in a speech in Coventry today, although he gave few new details about what the slogan will mean. Advertisement

Downing Street said the PM's call for county mayors was a 'new model' of devolution.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: 'County deals is a model of devolution which supports levelling up.

'They enable local people to come together with powers exercised at the right level to make a difference for their communities.

'In return for that greater control, what we expect back is improvements in government, governance and efficiency.'

Pressed on whether this would afford additional powers upon the county deals formula, which already exists, the No 10 spokesman added: 'This is a recognition that central government can't do all this work on its own  we want to see more county deals established up and down the country.

'These are a new model of local devolution and we want to see people take advantage of them.'

The 'level up' pledge was seen as central to smashing Labour's 'Red Wall' seats in the Midlands and the North. But Mr Johnson did not add much more flesh to the policy in his speech today.

Former No 10 adviser turned Tory MP Neil O'Brien has been recruited to work out details of the plans.

The agenda will include a focus on local infrastructure projects and the regeneration of high streets.

His speech  designed to put flesh on the bones of his election-winning slogan  comes amid Tory jitters over last month's Chesham and Amersham by-election defeat to the Liberal Democrats. Pictured: Chesham and Amersham Lib Dem MP Sarah Green

The Chesham by-election's 25 per cent swing to the Lib Dems came as a shock to southern Tories.

One MP said: 'You can't bang on about levelling up the North without voters in the South starting to wonder what's in it for them.'

Meanwhile, the Government will today confirm plans for eight new hospitals  the first batch of a promised 40 by 2030.

Four will be in the West Midlands, Cumbria, Liverpool and Brighton, with four more expected in London, Manchester, Nottingham and Northumberland.
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Sun-seekers flocked to British parks and beaches to enjoy 80F heat on St Swithin's Day today as the nation braces itself for a heatwave lasting until August, with temperatures exceeding even Ibiza.

Meterologists believe that England will enjoy a hot spell until at least the first week of August as the jet stream which caused 'biblical' flooding in London this week moves northwards.

Hundreds of people descended upon Troon Beach in Ayrshire, Kelvingrove Park in Glasgow, Dorset's Weymouth, Portobello Beach near Edinburgh and Alum Chine Beach near Bournemouth and bathed on the sand.

With sunshine today - St Swithin's Day - we can hope to keep our fingers crossed for searing temperatures and blue skies for the next 40 days, according to ancient Anglo-Saxon folklore.

On Saturday, temperatures are set to soar to 82F in London and 80F in Leeds, with forecasters warning those with hayfever that the pollen count is set to be 'high or even very high' at the weekend.

Met Office spokesman Grahame Madge told MailOnline: 'The weather outlook for the next ten days or so is promising with indications of fine, settled weather. The bulk of the UK should have a good deal of fine and dry weather at least for the next month, albeit with a risk of heavier showers and occasional thunderstorms.

The beach is packed as families and sunbathers flock to the seaside resort of Weymouth in Dorset

Athena Johnston and Emilia Jurin, both 19, walking along St Anne's on the Sea in Lancashire on St Swithin's Day

A man strips down and lathers himself in sunscreen as sun-seekers enjoy the heat on Portobello Beach near Edinburgh

Met Office meterologists are forecasting settled, hot weather in parts of the country until at least the first week of August as the jet stream which caused 'biblical' floods in London moves northwards

What is the St Swithin's Day rhyme? Illustration of St Swithin, Bishop of Winchester, who died in 862 The legend says whatever the weather on St Swithin's Day, it will continue for the next 40 days. The rhyme goes: St Swithin's Day if thou dost rain, For 40 days it will remain, St Swithin's Day if thou be fair, For 40 days will rain na mair Advertisement

'Large parts of the UK are beginning to move into heatwave territory for the next few days.'

St Swithin, the bishop of Winchester from 852 to 862, requested that he be buried in the churchyard after his death, so that passers-by could step over his grave and that it may be exposed to the elements.

But according to legend, his tomb was moved inside on July 15, 971, and shortly afterwards a huge storm hit and it rained for many weeks after. People at the time are said to have taken that as a sign of the saint's displeasure at his wishes being ignored.

According to the Encyclopedia Britannica: 'The first textual evidence for the weather prophecy appears to have come from a 13th or 14th century entry in a manuscript at Emmanuel College, Cambridge.

Since then, folklore has said that if it rains on St Swithin's Day it will continue to do so for the next 40 days - while if it is sunny, the sun will shine for 40 days straight.

Yet despite its enduring popularity, there does not appear to be any scientific evidence to support the idea that St Swithin's Day is a reliable indicator of 40 days of summer weather.

In fact, the Met Office has previously trawled back through its archives to confirm that there has never been a period 40 dry or 40 wet days in a row following St Swithin's Day since records began in 1861.

Vets Now, the UK's leading provider of pet emergency veterinary care, has warned that as temperatures increase that dog owners should be careful of the risks of their canines getting heat stroke.

The vets service sees a spike in call outs as the weather warms up and has warned that temperatures above 68F put dogs at risk and say that survival rates for dogs with heat stroke is just 50 per cent.

Heat stroke can turn fatal in a few as 15 minutes and it only takes a 2C temperature change to kick in.

Dave Leicester, head of telehealth at Vets Now, said: 'All dogs can overheat if left without water or in hot conditions for too long. So on hotter summer days it's best to walk your dog in the morning or evening when it's cooler.'

Forecaster Clare Nasir said: 'Into the weekend the temperatures will build and we'll see some strong sunshine, temperatures come Sunday could peak at around 30C (86F)' - which is set to be hotter than Ibiza this weekend.

Alex Burkill, another meteorologist at the Met Office, said: 'As we head through the very end of the month and into August we should see more fine, sunny weather around, and it will be drier than average conditions. I think we're in for a warmer and more settled spell that will last a few weeks.'

Mr Burkill added that areas seeing temperatures within the Met Office's definition of a heatwave include parts of south-west England, South Wales, parts of the Midlands and Yorkshire.

Hundreds of people descend upon Portobello Beach near Edinburgh to enjoy searing July heat

A woman sits on the sand on Portobello Beach near Edinburgh as the UK braces for another heatwave

Sun-seekers bathe on the beach at Portobello near Edinburgh as the nation readies itself for even more glorious sunshine

People flock to Troon Beach in Ayrshire on one of the hottest days of the year so far

Left to right: Rhiannon Freireich, 19, Martha Thornborrow, 21, and Katherine Read, 20, and David Rees, 20, enjoy the sunshine in Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow as Scotland basks in glorious sunshine

Left to right; Maggie Webb, 24, and Lauren Quinn, 24, enjoy the sunshine in Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow

People enjoy the summer weather on Alum Chine Beach near Bournemouth during glorious summer weather

People enjoy the summer weather on Alum Chine Beach near Bournemouth on St Swithin's Day

Nancy Clarke, 30, steps into the water in Seacliff beach in East Lothian on one of the hottest days of 2021

Highs of 80.6F (27C) are expected in the south of the UK by Sunday, with the whole week bringing scorching weather

Britons can expect to enjoy warm and dry weather from Friday (left) with temperatures soaring on Sunday (right)

Met Office spokesman Stephen Dixon told the Mirror: 'As far as I can say so far, temperatures staying over the weekend and there's a chance for 87F on Sunday in the south and south-east in isolated spots.

'On the Monday the conditions look fairly good and again, highs of 86F in some southern areas.'

Into next week, the Met Office says the weather will continue to be influenced by high pressure moving across the UK so the dry and sunny weather is set to continue.

The Met Office has shared how to determine whether warm weather reaches the definition of a heatwave.

In the UK, each part of the country has certain thresholds that must be met for a period of three days or more for it to be considered a heatwave, with the higher thresholds in the southern parts of the country with the highest threshold being in London at 82F.
The Taliban have demanded the release of seven thousand prisoners in exchange for a ceasefire lasting just three-months.

It comes as the militant group continues a sweeping offensive across Afghanistan following the US drawdown ahead of a complete withdrawal by August 31.

'It is a big demand,' said Nader Nadery, a key member of the government team involved in peace talks with the Taliban, adding the insurgents also demanded the removal of their leaders' names from a United Nations blacklist.

It was not immediately clear how the government would react to the ceasefire offer.

Authorities last year agreed to release 5,000 Taliban prisoners to help kick start peace talks in Doha, but negotiations have so far failed to reach any political settlement, and most are now fighting government forces.

The Taliban have demanded the release of seven thousand prisoners in exchange for a ceasefire lasting just three-months (Pictured: Detainees are released from Bagram Prison in May 2020)

Authorities last year agreed to release 5,000 Taliban prisoners to help kick start peace talks in Doha, but negotiations have so far failed to reach any political settlement, and most are now fighting government forces

It comes as the militant group continues a sweeping offensive across Afghanistan following the US drawdown ahead of a complete withdrawal by August 31

It comes after Pakistan security forces used tear gas Thursday to disperse hundreds of people who tried to force their way across the border from Chaman to Spin Boldak in Afghanistan.

The border was closed on Wednesday by Pakistan officials after the Taliban seized Spin Boldak and raised insurgent flags above the town.

'An unruly mob of about 400 people tried to cross the gate forcefully. They threw stones, which forced us to use tear gas,' said a security official on the Pakistan side.

He said around 1,500 people had gathered at the border Wednesday waiting to cross.

Jumadad Khan, a senior government official in Chaman, said the situation was now 'under control'.

The Afghan-Pakistan border was closed on Wednesday by Pakistan officials after the Taliban seized Spin Boldak and raised insurgent flags above the town

Pakistan border guards used tear gas to disperse hundreds of people gathered on the Afghan border waiting to cross

An Afghan Taliban source told AFP that hundreds of people had also gathered on the Afghan side, hoping to travel in the other direction.

'We are talking to Pakistani authorities. A formal meeting to open the border is scheduled for today, and hopefully, it will open in a day or two,' he said.

The crossing provides direct access to Pakistan's Balochistan province - where the Taliban's top leadership has been based for decades - along with an unknown number of reserve fighters who regularly enter Afghanistan to help bolster their ranks.

A major highway leading from the border connects to Pakistan's commercial capital Karachi and its sprawling port on the Arabian Sea, which is considered a linchpin for Afghanistan's billion-dollar heroin trade that has provided a crucial source of revenue for the Taliban's war chest over the years.

Spin Boldak was the latest in a string of border crossings and dry ports seized by the insurgents in recent weeks as they look to choke off revenues much-needed by Kabul while also filling their own coffers.

'The bazaar is closed and traders are scared that the situation will turn bad,' Mohammad Rasoul, a trader in Spin Boldak, told AFP by phone.

'They fear that their products will be looted. There are scores of opportunists waiting to loot.'

Muska Dastageer, a lecturer at the American University of Afghanistan, said the Taliban ceasefire offer was a likely attempt by them to consolidate the positions they have gained so swiftly in recent weeks.

'A ceasefire now would effectively prohibit ANDSF from retaking the crucial border points which Taliban have captured recently,' she tweeted, referring to Afghan forces.

'I think the timing of this ceasefire offer has more to do with their wish to consolidate power over these areas.'

Spin Boldak was the latest in a string of border crossings and dry ports seized by the insurgents in recent weeks as they look to choke off revenues much-needed by Kabul while also filling their own coffers (pictured, Afghan soldiers at a checkpoint near Spin Boldak)

Analysts speculated a ceasefire would help the Taliban consolidate their territory (pictured, an Afghan soldier keeps watch in an army vehicle at Bagram air base)

The Taliban is already enforcing its harsh interpretation of Islamic rule and reverting to its fundamental roots as it makes huge advances across Afghanistan.

Insurgents are issuing new orders to captured territories, banning smoking and beard-shaving and ordering villagers to marry off their daughters to foot soldiers and stopping women from heading out alone.

The Islamist group warned that anyone who breaks the rules 'will be seriously dealt with'.

Last month, the Taliban took Shir Khan Bandar, a northern customs post that connected the country to Tajikistan over a US-funded bridge that spanned the Panj river.

Local factory worker Sajeda told AFP: 'After Shir Khan Bandar fell, the Taliban ordered women not to step out of their homes.

A statement purporting to come from the Taliban circulated on social media this week ordered villagers to marry off their daughters and widows to the movement's foot soldiers.

'All imams and mullahs in captured areas should provide the Taliban with a list of girls above 15 and widows under 45 to be married to Taliban fighters,' said the letter, issued in the name of the Taliban's cultural commission.

Similar edicts were issued by the Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice during the Taliban's first stint in power.

The group has now denied making any such statement and dismissed it as propaganda as it attempts to project a softer image.

'These are baseless claims,' said Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the group.

'They are rumours spread using fabricated papers.'

A recent statement purporting to come from the Taliban circulated on social media this week ordered villagers to marry off their daughters and widows to the movement's foot soldiers (Women in Kabul on June 30, 2021)

The Taliban now claims to be in control of 80 per cent of Afghan territory, with a major offensive to retake towns and cities expected over the summer (pictured, a Taliban spokesmen holding a news conference last week in Russia)

But people in areas recently taken by the insurgents insist there is truth to the claims.

In Yawan district on the Tajikistan border, the Taliban gathered residents at a local mosque after taking over.

'Their commanders told us that nobody is allowed to leave home at night,' Nazir Mohammad, 32, told AFP.

'And no person - especially the youths - can wear red and green clothes,' he said, referring to the colours of the Afghan flag.

Their orders didn't stop there.

'Everybody should wear a turban and no man can shave,' said Mohammad.

'Girls attending schools beyond sixth grade were barred from classes.'

The Taliban insist they will protect human rights - particularly those of women - but only according to 'Islamic values', which are interpreted differently across the Muslim world.
An RAF jet given a 900,000 patriotic make-over featuring a Union Jack paint scheme has been laregly grounded by the pandemic, it has been revealed.

The Airbus A330 Voyager was decked out in red, white and blue in the summer of 2020 to help the PM fly the flag for the UK when he travels to international summits.

But such events have been largely off the diary due to the pandemic. The aircraft's only foreign promotional journey in 2021 was a trip by the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall to Greece, analysis by the i newspaper suggests.

Barring a Nato exercise overseas earlier this month , the rest of its operational flying has been limited to its secondary role as an air-to-air tanker refuelling Typhoon fighters on patrol in UK airspace.

The Airbus A330 Voyager was decked out in red, white and blue in the summer of 2020 to help the PM fly the flag for the UK when he travels to international summits.

But such events have been largely off the diary due to the pandemic. The aircraft's only foreign promotional journey in 2021 was a trip by the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall to Greece (pictured), analysis by the i newspaper suggests.

Barring a Nato exercise overseas earlier this month , the rest of its operational flying has been limited to its secondary role as an air-to-air tanker refuelling Typhoon fighters on patrol in UK airspace.

Critics have mocked it as an expensive folly that will make Mr Johnson (pictured today) look like Austin Powers on tour and questioned the expense in the middle of the pandemic

When the aircraft was unveiled last year ministers hoped the new design - which is much more visible than the usual military grey - will help boost 'Brand Britain' abroad.

But critics have mocked it as an expensive folly that will make Mr Johnson look like Austin Powers on tour and questioned the expense in the middle of the pandemic.

The new appearance bears a striking resemblance to the retro livery that adorned the British Airways fleet from 1974 to 1980, known as the Negus design.

The PM shares the plane with members of the royal family who wish to use it when they travel abroad.

Britain does not have a prime ministerial plane used solely by Downing Street, unlike many other countries such as America's presidential jet, Air Force One.

Downing Street also defended the 900,000 price tag at the time, with his official spokesman saying: 'That incorporates the cost of creating a design that will promote the UK around the world without compromising the plane's vital military role.

'At every stage we have worked to ensure value for money for the UK taxpayer and all of the work has been undertaken in the UK, directly benefiting British suppliers.'

A government spokeswoman said today: 'The VIP Voyager is used by the Prime Minister, senior ministers and members of the Royal Family for long-haul flights. During the global coronavirus pandemic, the number of such flights has been greatly reduced.'
Vladimir Putin personally ordered a top secret spy operation to help a 'mentally unstable' Donald Trump win the 2016 election, according to documents the left-leaning Guardian newspaper says were leaked from the Kremlin  in a report President Trump calls 'disgusting fiction.'

The Russian strongman held a meeting with his spy chiefs and senior ministers in January 2016 where they agreed to support Trump - who was then fighting to be the Republican nominee - in order to achieve Moscow's objectives of sowing 'social turmoil' in the US and weakening the American presidency, the papers suggest.

Asked for comment, former President Donald Trump tore into the report in comments to DailyMail.com by spokeswoman Liz Harrington.

'This is disgusting. It's fake news, just like RUSSIA, RUSSIA, RUSSIA was fake news. It's just the Radical Left crazies doing whatever they can to demean everybody on the right,' the former president said.

Trump then defended his own record on Russia, and touted sanctions his administration slapped on Moscow. 'It's fiction, and nobody was tougher on Russia than me, including on the [Nord Stream 2] pipeline, and the sanctions. At the same time we got along with Russia. Russia respected us, China respected us, Iran respected us, North Korea respected us.'

'And the world was a much safer place than it is now with mentally unstable leadership,' he said, ripping a term from the purported Kremlin documents and using it on his successor.

A decree bearing Putin's signature ordered Russia's three agencies to find practical ways to support the then-Republican frontrunner, according to The Guardian who have seen the documents, recommending the use 'all possible force' to ensure that Trump became the 45th president of the United States.

Helping him secure victory 'will definitely lead to the destabilization of the US's sociopolitical system', the report predicts.

The British newspaper doesn't say where the documents came from or how they have been authenticated. The Kremlin has rejected their authenticity and Putin's spokesman Dmitri Peskov dismissed the story as 'great pulp fiction' and 'utter nonsense'.

He told RT it was 'a continuation of an absolutely poor-quality publication.

'The newspaper is either trying to somehow increase its popularity, or carries on with its rabid Russophobic line.'

He said of The Guardian report: 'This has nothing, and cannot have anything, to do with the truth. This is in fact not true.

'This is a continuation of exercises in total demonisation of Russia and Putin, which The Guardian sometimes likes to do. Or else this is a desperate attempt to attract some new readers by publishing such fables.'

The Guardian showed the purportedly leaked documents from the January 22 meeting to Western spy agencies who carefully examined them and believe them to be genuine. Independent experts say the tone of the papers is consistent with the Kremlin's style.

U.S. intelligence has long assessed the Russia interfered in the 2016 election and had a preference for Trump  but has never identified a single meeting where key players all gathered in a room to forge a strategy which would then be memorialized on paper.

DailyMail.com asked The Guardian asking for more information about the authenticity of the documents. They responded by saying: 'Independent experts believe the documents to be genuine. We stand by our reporting.'

Dailymail.com also has also asked Twitter and Facebook whether they will take down or limit sharing of the story base on questions over the origins of the supposed report.

The story was still circulating on their platforms on Thursday morning despite The Guardian saying the documents 'appear' to be from The Kremlin and without explaining from where they were obtained.

In October 2020, Twitter and Facebook limited articles about Hunter Biden's laptop from their feeds because the material had allegedly been 'hacked'.

Russian-language documents that the Guardian reports were leaked from the Kremlin purport to show a January, 2016 meeting where Russian President Vladimir Putin and top lieutenants forged a plan to support Donald Trump

The documents purport to come from a January 2016 meetings, where ministers agreed to support Donald Trump, who was deemed 'mentally unstable,' in order to sow 'social turmoil' in the U.S.

Putin holds a meeting with his security council on January 22, 2016, the date of the alleged discussions about helping Trump

Donald Trump and his then wife Ivana visit Palace Square in St. Petersburg in July 1987

A bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee report released last April said Putin 'approved and directed aspects' of Russia's interference campaign.

'The Committee found that specific intelligence as well as open source assessments support the assessment that President Putin approved and directed aspects of this influence campaign,' the report said.

In January of 2016, Trump was one of 12 GOP contenders fighting it out for the Republican nomination for president. While he was doing well in the polls, and leading his rivals in January, there hadn't yet been a primary contest yet (the Iowa caucuses, the first in the nation, took place on February 1).

Many observers at the time were not even sure Trump's run was serious, or whether it was an effort designed in part to gain publicity and boost his golf, real estate, and branding business. U.S. opinion leaders in an environment the Kremlin monitors closely were arguing that a more traditional candidate like Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, or former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush might ultimately walk away with the nomination.

On the Democratic side, Hillary Clinton was fighting it out with Bernie Sanders for her party's nomination.

The Kremlin papers, which have not been verified by DailyMail.com, include a psychological assessment of Trump, describing him as an 'impulsive, mentally unstable and unbalanced individual who suffers from an inferiority complex'.

The documents also allude to compromising material the Kremlin held on the New York business tycoon turned reality star from an earlier visit to Moscow.

They refer to 'certain events' during the reality star's trips to Moscow but offer no details. But the document references an appendix, and the Guardian reports it is 'unclear' what the appendix contains.

The line evokes unverified information in the salacious dossier by former British intelligence officer Christopher Steel about Trump's alleged conduct in a Moscow hotel room during the 2013 Miss Universe Pageant.

The Guardian showed the leaked documents from the January 22 meeting to Western spy agencies who carefully examined them and believe them to be genuine. Independent experts say the tone of the papers is consistent with the Kremlin's style.

The proposition of a documented meeting on Trump also came in for criticism online including from former Guardian journalist and Intercept founder Glenn Greenwald.

He tweeted in reference to 'fabricated stories' at his former publication, which he said 'needs to stimulate its subscribers,' then chastised the U.S. media for treating it 'as credible no matter how many times it turns out to be a fraud?'

The document: 'Report no 32-04' calls Trump 'most promising candidate' for Russia

The report, named 'No 32-04 \ vd' is classified as secret and says Trump is the 'most promising candidate' for Russia.

Special Counsel Robert Mueller, in his investigation of Russia's role in the presidential contest, concluded the Russian government 'interfered in the 2016 presidential election in sweeping and systematic fashion.'

His report found the Russians used a social media campaign to boost Trump and disparage Clinton during the general election and that the Russian military intelligence agency GRU hacked into email accounts owned by volunteers and employees of the Clinton presidential campaign.

The documents outlined in Thursday's report is not the first mention of the Russians having kompromat on Trump.

Echoes of Miss Universe 2013 and 'dossier' allegations denied by Trump

The infamous Steele dossier contained allegations about Trump's Russia ties as well as unverified information about his alleged conduct in a Moscow hotel room during the Miss Universe Pageant in 2013.

Written by ex-British spy Christopher Steele, the document outlines the incident, which allegedly took place in the Ritz-Carlton's presidential suite.

Because Barack and Michelle Obama, whom Trump despised, had stayed in that room, Trump allegedly hired 'a number of prostitutes to perform a 'golden showers' (urination) show [on the bed] in front of him'.

The act, which Trump has vehemently denied, was allegedly recorded using microphones and cameras by the Russian secret service (FSB) to ensure he bowed to the Kremlin's wishes.

Steele compiled the 35-page dossier between June and December, 2016, for a firm that had ties to the Democratic National Committee.

Buzzfeed published the dossier in January of 2017, before Trump took office. But intelligence officials knew of its existence long before it became public.

Then FBI director James Comey briefed then President Barack Obama on its contents and Comey later briefed Trump on its existence at Trump Tower during the transition.

In his memoir, Comey wrote Trump interrupted him as he described the material in the dossier.

He 'strongly denied the allegations, asking  rhetorically, I assumed  whether he seemed like a guy who needed the service of prostitutes.'

The unverified Steele dossier memos referenced Trump's alleged conduct during the Miss Universe Pageant in Moscow in 2013

Then President Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Helsinki in July 2018

Trump's 1987 Moscow visit on real estate trip

Trump made his first visit to Russia in 1987 when he was a New York real estate tycoon married to his first wife Ivana, a model from Czechoslovakia, which was, at the time, a communist country.

He made subsequent visits and had, at one point, pursued building a Trump Tower in Moscow.

As president, Trump took a softer stance on Russia than other holders of the Oval Office.

At a controversial press conference in Helsinki with Putin in July 2018, Trump declined to support the US government's assessment that Russia had interfered in the 2016 presidential election.

'He just said it's not Russia. I will say this: I don't see any reason why it would be,' Trump said of Putin, who stood by his side.

Trump later had to walk back his comments, which sparked outrage in the United States on both sides of the political aisle.

As for Thursday's newly published information, the meeting led by Putin with his security officials and spy chiefs was definitely held in the Kremlin on the date of the alleged report.

January meeting included defense minister Shoigu and intel chief  but Kremlin said it was about Moldova and the economy

Present were the then prime minister Dmitry Medvedev, foreign minister Sergei Lavrov, defense minister Sergei Shoigu who is also in charge of the GRU foreign military intelligence agency, head of the SVR intelligence service Mikhail Fradkov, FSB boss Alexander Bortnikov and its former director Nikolai Patrushev.

A press release said the meeting covered the economy and Moldova.

But the leaked documents suggest the covert purpose of the discussions was the confidential plans to aid Trump in his election bid.

Putin's expert department, which provides the president with analytical reports, often based on foreign intelligence, is believed to be behind the documents allegedly written by Vladimir Symonenko.

On January 14, 2016, Symonenko circulated a three-page executive report of his team's findings.

Two days later, Putin signed an order instructing his foreign policy chief Alexander Manzhosin to gather the national security council to further study the document.

It is not known what they discussed in the meeting on January 22 but Putin and his officials signed off a multi-agency plan to interfere in the US democratic process, the leaked documents suggest.

Plan to insert 'media viruses' into U.S. information stream

The papers identify US weaknesses including a deepening political gulf, an increasing anti-establishment sentiment and the media.

Among the methods considered by the security council include inserting 'media viruses' into US public life which could affect the public mood, the documents suggest.

After the meeting, Putin issued a decree to set up a secret new interdepartmental commission to carry out the goals of the report as soon as possible, a separate leaked documents reveals.

Each spy agency was given a rule, with GRU chief Shoigu as the head of the new body, responsible for collecting information and 'preparing measures to act on the information environment of the object'.

It is believed the command refers to hacking US targets identified by SVR, Russia's foreign intelligence service.

The SVR was told to gather new information while the FSB was ordered to carry out counter-intelligence.

The spy chiefs were given just one week to return with concrete proposals.

Putin has repeatedly denied claims that he has interfered in Western democracy.

Weeks after the meeting, the Democratic National Committee was hacked with thousands of emails leaked in an attack believed to have been carried out by the GRU.
Almost two thirds of working mothers in Britain will struggle with childcare over the six-week school holidays, according to a recent poll.

The survey by Trade Union Congress and campaign group Mother Pukka involved more than 36,000 mothers, and found that nearly one in eight do not have access to their usual holiday clubs.

Sixty per cent of those quizzed said they will find it more difficult to balance work and childcare than previously, with the situation far worse for single mothers.

More than three quarters fear they do not have adequate childcare ready for the upcoming break, which begins shortly after the July 19 'Freedom Day'.

Parents also complained that they had used all their annual leave already to accommodate home learning during lockdowns.

Almost two thirds of working mothers in Britain will struggle with childcare over the six-week school holidays, according to a recent poll. Pictured: Stock image

Parents complained that they had used all their annual leave already to accommodate home learning during lockdowns. Pictured: Stock image

Mother-of-four Anna Harris, from Macclesfield, was left at a loss after several of her usual kids clubs were cancelled due to the difficultly of adhering to Covid rules.

She now has to arrange childcare for her kids, aged four to nine, over seven weeks of school holidays, while her and her husband are both working four-day weeks.

'Usually, our children would do a holiday club in the summer to help us manage our working and caring commitments,' Ms Harris said.

'But this year there is not a single general holiday club in my area.'

The busy mother added she had been planning for the holidays since June, but clubs have been called off at the last minute due to the complexities of Covid rules.

She said: 'I've tried everything, and I've contacted everyone I can think of. I'm scouring social media to see if there's anything available - and I've even emailed the school to ask if any teaching assistants would be available for paid childcare over the holiday. But I'm still drawing a blank.

'I don't know how other working parents are managing this. I'm having to put together a real patchwork of childcare.

The survey by Trade Union Congress and campaign group Mother Pukka involved more than 36,000 mothers, and found that nearly one in eight do not have access to their usual holiday clubs. Pictured: Stock image

Sixty per cent of those quizzed said they would find it more difficult to balance work and childcare this year than previously, with the situation far worse for single months. Pictured: Stock image

'We have a childcare bubble with some friends so they can help one or two days a week, and then the children can go to my parents for a few days.

'But it's all proving really stressful and is taking up a lot of time and mental space.

'We can't afford to take unpaid leave and we don't have the kinds of jobs where we can work at home with the children all here with us.'

Has YOUR kid's club been killed off due to Covid? Email: tips@dailymail.com Advertisement

Parents in Ealing, west London, have also complained that school-run clubs will not be available over the six-week break.

Several private holiday clubs in the capital currently have limited places available for July, with poor availability later into the holidays.

A leisure centre in Seaford, East Sussex, said it was unable to immediately run most of its usual kids activities due to lack of staff and uncertainty over reopening.

Frances O'Grady, general secretary of the TUC, said: 'Women have borne the brunt of the pandemic, on the front line in key worker roles and at home.

'Working mums picked up the lion's share of caring responsibilities while schools were closed, with many sacrificing hours and pay to do so.

'While restrictions may be lifting and ministers talk about us getting back to normal, working mums are still feeling the impact of the pandemic.

'Most mums told us they don't have enough childcare for the upcoming school holidays and are now facing a huge challenge managing their work and caring responsibilities this summer.

The TUC is campaigning for a legal right to flexible work for all workers from their first day in a job and a duty to include available flexibility in job adverts. Pictured: Stock image

'It shouldn't be this difficult. If ministers don't act, we risk turning the clock back on generations of progress women have made at work.'

She added that parents are relying on flexible working more than ever to cope with the extra childcare demands posed by the pandemic.

Ms O'Grady said: 'I'd urge employers to be as supportive as they can to their staff who have kids, and not force them back to the office if working at home helps them balance their work and childcare.'

Founder of Mother Pukka, Anna Whitehouse, added: 'There are approximately 62 days of holiday a year, and the average employee holiday allowance is 25 days.

'The maths simply doesn't add up.

'If we are going to recover from this pandemic and ensure the playing field is level for men and women at some point in the future, we need childcare to be part of our infrastructure - as important as roads, railways and signposts.

'If it's tough for a two-parent family, have a moment to consider a single-parent family. The current system has parents at breaking point.'

The TUC is campaigning for a legal right to flexible work for all workers from their first day in a job and a duty to include available flexibility in job adverts.

MailOnline has contacted Ealing Council for comment.
A Pakistani man who ejaculated on a young woman at a music festival during a spate of public masturbation offences has been unmasked as a high-flying finance specialist earning $120,000 a year.

Muhammad Khan, 40, pleaded guilty in Melbourne Magistrates Court on Thursday, for three counts of sexual touching and one count of indecent assault.

The court heard that the serial public masturbator carried out a number of grotesque attacks on women between 2015 to 2019 after migrating to Australia in 2009.

But despite Khan's offences, his wife has pledged that she will stick by the father of her two children, both aged under six.

Muhammad Khan, 40, pleaded guilty in Melbourne Magistrates Court on Thursday for three counts of sexual touching and one count of indecent assault

The first accusation came from a young woman who attended the St Kilda Festival on February 8, 2015.

Police facts state that the victim 'felt something warm on her back and turned around to see Khan buttoning up his pants,' news.com reported.

Investigators launched a public appeal in the wake of the incident to find the person responsible, but it would be some years later before Khan would finally be identified.

Two years later on February 8, 2017, he struck again preying on a woman who was catching a tram from Flinders Street to the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

She told police a man touched her leg and ejaculated onto her dress.

On March 4, 2018, Khan attended Melbourne's Brunswick Festival and once again ejaculated on a female stranger.

The court heard she 'felt something wet' and realised Khan had ejaculated onto her top and jeans.

The first accusation against Khan came from a young woman who attended the St Kilda Festival on February 8, 2015 (pictured)

She could not identify Khan but handed over her clothing so investigators could capture the perpetrator's DNA.

His other offence came on October 18, 2019, when Khan was captured on CCTV approaching a woman from behind at the Carlton Club.

The vision shows him touching her buttocks and dragging his finger up her legs.

Police released this sketch of Khan after the 2015 sexual assault

While Khan was pulled from his previous job at Bendigo's Kangan Institute after the firm were informed of his sexual assault charges in October 2019 when he failed a working with children check, he has since found another high-paying employer.

He's now a senior employee at the insurance and financial services company AB Phillips where he rakes in $120,000 a year, the court heard.

His lawyer Amelia Beech the charges have had a 'huge impact on him'.

She said that as the 'breadwinner' of the family, he is concerned that if a conviction is recorded it may see him lose his lucrative job.

Khan's wife, acting as a character reference, described him as a 'hard worker, and devoted father and husband'.

The court heard that before Khan moved to Australia 'his relationship with women was very different'.

Ms Beech said he found it 'overwhelming' moving to Melbourne after having limited contact with the opposite sex at university in Pakistan.

Khan is due to be sentenced on Tuesday, July 20.
A snake expert who claimed to be immune to venom has been killed by a cobra after it bit him when he tried to kiss it.

Bernardo Alvarez, 62, was killed by the Northern Philippine Cobra in Pangasinan while his terrified neighbours watched on.

He had caught the snake in Mangaldan on July 9 and claimed to have tamed the deadly creature.

But as he showed off the snake to onlookers, Alvarez held the cobra close to his lips, pretending to kiss it.

The snake lunged forward and bit Alvarez on the tongue, causing him to collapse, screaming with pain.

Bernardo Alvarez, 62, a snake expert who claimed to be immune to venom, has been killed by a cobra after it bit him when he tried to kiss it

Police and medics rushed to revive the snake expert but said he was no longer responsive when they arrived.

He was pronounced dead at the scene and doctors said his body was already stiff from the effect of the venom.

Alvarez's sister said: 'A policeman and a doctor arrived to check on him and told us he had no pulse so they tried to revive him.

'They were not successful since the cobra's venom was too strong. We don't know how we could accept what happened to him.'

Police and medics rushed to revive the snake expert but said he was no longer responsive and his body was already stiff from the venom when they arrived

Alvarez caught the snake in Mangaldan on July 9 and claimed to have tamed the deadly creature. He was showing neighbours the animal when it fatally bit him

His family have arranged a small funeral at this home and will bury the body later this week.

Angry locals killed the snake.

Provincial Health Officer Dr Anna de Guzman said: 'The snake's venom can cause paralysis which is what happened to the snake man.

'This paralysis could can stop the breathing of the victim, affect the flow of oxygen in the body, and eventually stop the beating of the heart.'

The Northern Philippine Cobra is widely recognised as one of the deadliest snakes in the world.

The venom attacks the victim's respiratory system, meaning a single bite can be fatal.
Liz Cheney said she smacked away fellow Republican Representative Jim Jordan's hand during the January 6 Capitol riot when he tried to offer her help, excerpts from a new book detail.

The book by two Washington Post reporters reveal a phone call between the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Cheney where Mark Milley asked her how she was doing after the attack on the Capitol by Trump supporters.

'That f***ing guy Jim Jordan. That son of a b***h,' the excerpts from CNN claim she said, according to the book I Alone Can Fix It: Donald J. Trump's Catastrophic Final Year.

Cheney, who broke with her party to criticize Trump and was recently ousted as No. 3 ranking Republican, said during the call that she ran into Jordan on the House floor during the chaos that day.

'While these maniacs are going through the place, I'm standing in the aisle and he [Jordan] said, 'We need to get the ladies away from the aisle. Let me help you,'' the Wyoming at-large representative detailed to Milley.

'I smacked his hand,' she explained, 'and told him, 'Get away from me. You f***ing did this.''

Republican Rep. Liz Cheney (center) said, according to a new book, that she smacked fellow GOP Rep. Jim Jordan's hand away during the January 6 Capitol riot and told him to 'you f***ing did this' when he offered her help during the chaos in the House chamber

Jordan, speaking here on Jan. 6 to reject Electoral College votes in some swing states, has supported Trump's claims the 2020 election was illegitimate due to a slew of voter fraud

Jordan's office did not immediately respond to a DailyMail.com request for comment on the reported interaction with Cheney.

The Washington Post reporters Philip Rucker and Carol Leonnig's book will officially be released on July 20, but excerpts have started coming out from those who have obtained parts early.

The latest is a series of books coming out this summer about the former president's time in office  and in particular his final days in the White House, including the Capitol riot and his handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

Democrats blamed Trump for the Capitol attack on January 6, 2021 as his supporters stormed the comple to try and stop members from certifying the election win for Joe Biden.

The excerpts were taken from a new book due out next week titled I Alone Can Fix It: Donald J. Trump's Catastrophic Final Year

Shortly after, the House voted to impeach the then-president again, this time on grounds of 'inciting insurrection.' Cheney was the highest ranking Republican of the 14 who voted for Trump's second impeachment.

Months later, in May she was voted out as Republican Caucus chairwoman and was replaced with New York Representative Elise Stefanik, who while has a less conservative voting record, is more pro-Trump and did not vote to impeach him.

Cheney was recently the only Republican that Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi appointed to the select committee investigating the events of January 6  further distinguishing herself from the current state of the GOP.

In contrast to Cheney, Jordan is one of the former president's most fervent supporters in Congress.

Following the 2020 election, the Ohio representative pushed Trump's claims that there was a slew of voter fraud and, therefore, the election results are illegitimate.
A woman who had to isolate in a London hotel for two weeks after returning from India says the experience was 'worse than prison'.

Jackie Burchell was forced to isolate in the Crowne Plaza London hotel at King's Cross after returning to the UK earlier this month.

Jackie and her husband Tony, working as director of the Metro Project in Chennai, had originally travelled to India before it went on the red list due to the spread of the Delta variant.

Jackie was forced to return to the UK so she could help staff who were struggling to run her business in her absence.

Jackie is the co-owner of Elysian Fields Bed and Breakfast in Helston, Cornwall.

Jackie Burchell had to go into quarantine after travelling back to the UK from India where her husband Tony has been working

Jackie Burchell was forced to isolate in the Crowne Plaza London hotel at King's Cross

The Cornish B&B owner says she was not given food for several meals, and when they did arrive they were not sufficient. She claims she was given a packet of crisps, a sandwich and a chocolate bar for one evening meal, despite having issues with her blood sugar

'We employ 14 people, but they need us there to guide them,' Jackie said.

'I look after the B&B, they're not there day and night, so I had no choice but to go back.'

Before her flight to London, Jackie was forced to isolate at a Hilton in India, which she described as 'a nice experience' despite being stuck inside the entire time.

'We were allowed to upgrade the room so we had a suite, because my husband was working from the hotel, and the food we could order with room service, you were allowed out on the rooftop - you could even use the swimming pool.'

Upon arrival in London Jackie was met at the 'cram packed' airport, before being put on a bus without any distancing regulations in place.

When Jackie arrived at the Crowne Plaza hotel she originally perceived it as being nice, with a seven-day selection of 'really lovely sounding' meals. But then, things changed.

After complaining to her husband Tony, he emailed their local Cornwall MP Derek Thomas about the conditions Jackie was putting up with, and she says they have since improved. Pictured: One of her other meals

Mandatory hotel quarantine: What travellers from 'red list' countries face when arriving in the UK Travellers who come to the UK from 'red list' countries must quarantine in a hotel for 10 days and take multiple tests Mandatory hotel quarantines were introduced for international passengers arriving from 'red list' countries on February 15. This includes high Covid risk countries such as Brazil, Dubai, Portugal and South Africa. The system was introduced in reaction to new variants of Covid that were seen in places such as Brazil and South Africa. Travellers must spend ten days in quarantine at their own cost if they return to the UK on direct flights from any of 'red list' locations. This costs a total of 1,750 for travellers. They must also take a coronavirus test on or before day two and day eight of quarantining, according to the government guidelines. Travellers are not allowed to shorten theor quarantine period if you receive a negative test result, but delays to testing kits and results could mean they face longer in quarantine. The government website states: 'If you receive a positive result from your day-2 test, you must continue your quarantine period restarting the 10 days beginning the day after the test was taken.' Anyone caught breaking the quarantine rules faces a penalty of up to 10,000. Advertisement

'On the first day nothing came, and I assumed it was because my bus was late, and then lunch came at 5pm, no evening meal,' she said.

While Jackie had been under the impression that she would be receiving the choices she had previously made, she was instead greeted by a packet of crisps, a sandwich and a chocolate bar, which was supposed to suffice until the morning.

After complaining to her husband Tony, he emailed their local Cornwall MP Derek Thomas about the conditions Jackie was putting up with.

Tony described how for breakfast, 'a small box of cereal' was served at 11am, and for lunch, Jackie received a pack of cheese sandwiches at 5pm. No dinner was offered on two evenings, they claimed.

They also claimed that Jackie was told to call reception if there were any issues, but that she was unable to get through for nearly two days.

'If there was any emergency it could be extremely serious,' Tony said.

Exercising was almost impossible, they added, while Tony also spoke of his concerns with Jackie's health because she suffers from claustrophobia and has had blood sugar issues that require a regular and nutritional food intake.

Jackie recalled that at no point prior to her stay was she asked if he had any health issues.

She said she overheard that another guest had been 'crying her eyes out' because food had been delivered for her partner, and not for her.

'If they want us to go into quarantine, at least give us food,' Jackie said.

Derek Thomas has said that while quarantine is necessary to halt the spread of the Delta variant, it 'should never be an ordeal'.

He added: 'When I was told of the conditions one of my constituents was in, I immediately did all I could to intervene.

'I am in regular contact with her husband and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) to ensure that her needs are met.

'Everyone's health should be protected by quarantine, even and especially those in quarantine.'

Jackie has since said that her conditions have improved, and that she is in better spirits.

The Crowne Plaza London said it was unable to comment, adding that the approach to quarantine and hotel selection 'is a matter for the DHSC'.
This is the shocking moment a Land Rover Discovery thief smashed through a level crossing barrier and raced along a train track as stunned passengers looked on.

The stolen vehicle shot onto the rails at Cheshunt train station in Hertfordshire shortly before 10am today.

Amazed travellers watched from the platform as the car sped off down the track - before being abandoned so the reckless thief could make off on foot.

Two officers were injured in the brazen getaway and countless vehicles were damaged, police confirmed, as their hunt for the driver continues.

The incident has caused travel chaos, with National Rail warning trains going through Cheshunt station may face delays of up to 60 minutes or be cancelled all together. The station will remain closed until 2pm.

This is the shocking moment a car thief hurtled down a railway line in a stolen Land Rover while stunned passengers looked on

The stolen vehicle shot onto the rails at Cheshunt train station in Hertfordshire shortly before 10am today

Around 9.30am, Hertfordshire police were told a stolen vehicle had travelled into the county from Essex.

It was tracked down to Cheshunt, in Broxbourne, where two officers confronted the driver.

Footage taken by a local resident showed the officers screaming 'get out of the car' as the driver tried to get away.

As the officers frantically tugged at the driver, he put the car into reverse - with one cop still holding on as the car shot backwards.

Around 9.30am, Hertfordshire police were told a stolen vehicle (pictured later, on the tracks) had travelled into the county from Essex

It was tracked down to Cheshunt, in Broxbourne, (pictured on the tracks) where two officers confronted the driver

Two officers (pictured trying to stop the driver) were injured in the brazen getaway and countless vehicles were damaged, police confirmed, as their hunt for the driver continues

As the officers frantically tugged at the driver, he put the car into reverse - with one cop still holding on as the car shot backwards

Footage taken by a local resident showed the officers screaming 'get out of the car' as the driver tried to get away

The thief then drove to nearby Cheshunt train station, where CCTV showed him smashing through a level crossing barrier before mounting the tracks.

Passengers film the driver as he shoots down the rails.

The thief then abandons the car on the track between Cheshunt and Waltham Cross stations before making off on foot. He has still not been found.

Greater Anglia and Stansted Express said replacement bus services are in operation due to the disruption caused.

A Hertfordshire Constabulary spokesperson said: 'At around 9.30am on Thursday 15 July, our control room was made aware that a stolen vehicle had travelled into Hertfordshire ground, from Essex.

'The vehicle was located in Cheshunt and officers from Essex Police attempted to speak to the driver.

Hertfordshire Police said: 'The vehicle (pictured as officers tried to stop the driver) made off, injuring two officers and damaging several vehicles in the process'

'The vehicle then made off, injuring two officers and damaging several vehicles in the process.

'Officers from Hertfordshire also attended to assist with the search and the vehicle was found abandoned on nearby train tracks, in Windmill Lane.

'The vehicle has now been recovered and we are continuing to search for the driver.

'Anyone who witnessed the incident, or saw the vehicle driving in the area, is asked to contact police on 101.'

The force later confirmed the vehicle has been recovered from the tracks and enquiries are ongoing to trace the driver.

The two officers involved only received minor physical injuries.
Two women were caught on video beating up a Brooklyn laundromat attendant and breaking a flower pot over his head as New York City's violent summer rages on.

The incident occurred on June 8 at around 4am at the Aqua Wash Laundromat on 98th Street, the NYPD said in a news release seeking information about the suspects.

Video shows the 69-year-old attendant trying to run away from the duo as one of the assailants wearing a yellow and orange tank top hits him with the pot, knocking him down.

Another woman, wearing a pink sundress then throws a blanket on top of him as the two make their escape.

The second woman can be seen stopping briefly to pick up what appeared to be a knife that had fallen out of her winking kissing face emoji bag.

The attack came as violence continues unabated in the city with a six percent spike in assaults compared with last year, according to the latest NYPD crime statistics. So far this year 11,033 have been reported citywide, compared to 10,407 in the same period in 2020.

Two women were recorded on video assaulting a Brooklyn laundromat attendant with one breaking a flowerpot over his head, knocking him down

The second woman can be seen throwing a blanket at the victim as the two make their escape

One woman stops briefly to pick up what appeared to be a knife that had fallen out of her bag

Police are seeking any information that could lead to the assailants' arrest. One was seen breaking a flower pot over the victim's head (left). The other can be seen throwing a blanket on the victim before bending down to pick up what appeared to be a knife she dropped on the floor

Police said the incident occurred at the the Aqua Wash on 98th Street in Brooklyn

The two women had reportedly gotten into an argument with the attendant, but police were unable to confirm what started the fight.

Police said the victim was taken to Brookdale Hospital where he was in stable condition, and police are seeking information to find the assailants.

New York City's anti-crime mayoral nominee Eric Adams warned on Wednesday that 'no one is going to come back' if violence, and in particular gun violence in the Big Apple continues.

Adams, the Brooklyn borough president who won the Democratic primary for this year's mayoral race, appeared at an event with Andrew Cuomo on Wednesday as the two political leaders presented a united front in addressing the rising crime.

New York City's anti-crime mayoral candidate Eric Adams warned on Wednesday that 'no one is going to come back' if gun violence in the Big Apple continues

'No one is going to come back to our multibillion-dollar tourism industry if 3-year-olds are being shot in Times Square,' Adams said.

Adams, 60, ran on a largely anti-crime platform and will become the mayor of New York if he defeats Republican Curtis Sliwa in the general election. The former NYPD police captain has even received praised from Fox News host Tucker Carlson.

Cuomo added to the praise on Wednesday while speaking at the Lenox Road Baptist Church - a stark contrast to his ongoing rivalry with current Mayor Bill de Blasio.

'Eric and I come from the same political philosophy,' Cuomo said, according to the New York Daily News.

'I think Eric Adams and I are going to work very well together. I believe, he believes, the same philosophy of government: it's not what you say, it's not about the politics, it's about performance.'

The politicians both said their main focuses for New York City will be public safety and economic recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Adams compared New York City's Washington Square Park to a San Francisco 'shantytown' after residents nearby have complained of drug use and loud raves after the park has closed.

'My son and I walk through the park oftentimes just to talk. Someone's sitting next to us, injecting themselves with heroin. Police [are] right there,' Adams said.

Adams, who won the Democratic primary for this year's mayoral race, appeared at an event with Andrew Cuomo as the two presented a united front in addressing rising crime

'There is just a sense that we have a city where any and everything goes.'

The mayoral candidate also ripped New York judges and bail reform laws for not doing their part to combat the rising crime rates.

He also said judges are not using tools they do have at their disposal like Kendra's Law which lets courts order mental health treatment in some cases.

'Our judges are not giving bail on cases where they are allowed to give bail. They're refusing to use Kendra's Law on mental health issues,' Adams said.

'We have thrown up our hands, and we have surrendered our city. It's time for us to ensure our city is for the working class, everyday people who are following the laws and saying that government is going to make sure we protect them.'

The shooting on Wednesday was the third shooting in New York City since May. Bystanders are pictured in Times Square after a shooting on June 27

Then, a U.S. Marine was injured in another shooting on June 27 when he was hit by a ricocheting bullet at W. 45th St. and Seventh Ave.

Cuomo, 63, described gun violence as a 'major civil rights issue' while announcing the state will offer 4,000 summer jobs and full-time jobs with training for the city's youth in the hopes of providing an 'alternative' to gun violence, the Daily News reported.

Those efforts come after de Blasio already unveiled 75,000 jobs for city youth this summer, as noted by the Daily News.

The politicians did not appear to address the latest shooting in Times Square, when a gunman allegedly shot at a motorcyclist in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

Officers with the NYPD responded to calls reporting shots fired around 12:40 a.m. on Tuesday near 7th Ave. and 41st St. in Midtown, Freedom News TV reported. Nobody was injured in the shooting and no arrests have been made.

A man reportedly involved in the shooting said he was with a group on bikes who were cut off, he told the outlet off camera. The group went to 'have words' with the driver of the vehicle when at least one person shot at them.

At least four shots were fired when the white Mercedes clipped a motorcyclist, 32, in the bus lane - leaving him with knee and elbow injuries, NYPD officials told the New York Daily News.

NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea told NY1 on Wednesday that the Bronx has not had such high gun violence rates since the mid-1990s

An inforgraphic shows crime rates in New York City

A friend of the motorcyclist, 22, confronted a group of men standing by the car when someone in the group started firing, cops told the Daily News. The Mercedes then sped off as the alleged shooter fled on foot.

An NYPD spokesperson told DailyMail.com in a statement that the 22-year-old man has filed a police report for attempted assault.

'He was involved in a dispute with unknown individuals when one of the males displayed a black firearm and fired multiple shots in his direction. The reporter was not injured as a result,' the spokesperson said.

The shooting incident marks the third time shots have rung out in Times Square since May 8 when two adults and a four-year-old girl named Skye Martinez were hit with stray bullets.

Farrakhan Muhammad, the alleged gunman, had reportedly started shooting over a street vendor 'turf war.' He allegedly fled the Big Apple after the shooting and was arrested days later in Florida.

Then a U.S. Marine was injured in another shooting on June 27 when he was hit by a ricocheting bullet at W. 45th St. and Seventh Ave., police said.

Avon Darden, 16, handed himself over to cops at the Midtown South Precinct station house on Wednesday a whopping ten days after the shooting. He is pictured in surveillance footage while cops searched for him

Darden reportedly has been arrested for three felonies

Samuel Poulin, 21, was hit in the back by a ricocheting bullet as he walked with his family near the Marriott Hotel on W. 45th St. around 5:15 p.m. on June 27

A breakdancer, 16-year-old Avon Darden, had allegedly tried to shoot a rival dancer when he hit Samuel Poulin, 21, in the back as he and his wife and family walked past.

The teen later handed himself over to cops at the Midtown South precinct station house accompanied by his mother.

Crime, particularly in the Bronx borough of New York City, has risen drastically when compared to last year.

NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea told NY1 on Wednesday that the Bronx has not had such high gun violence rates since the mid-1990s.

'The Bronx is back to a level not seen since 1996,' Commissioner Shea said.

He added: 'We've had a bad run right now in the Bronx, specifically with gang violence involving young kids.'

A young member of the Crips who was shot dead in the Bronx during an escalating 'war' in which at least three teens have been killed.

Jaryan Elliot, 13, was shot dead around 3:15 p.m. on Sunday outside Angels Cafe in the Belmont neighborhood of the Bronx in revenge for the killing of rival gang member Tyquill Daugherty, 19, four days earlier, the New York Post reported.

Jaryan Elliot, 13, was shot dead around 3:15 p.m. on Sunday outside Angels Cafe in the Belmont neighborhood of the Bronx

Jaryan, who had just graduated from middle school, would have turned 14 on July 29. He had already been arrested eight times, including for robbery and assault, and had spent time at a juvenile detention center before his death.

A GoFundMe has since been started for Jaryan's mother to help her pay for the funeral after the young teen's death.

Jaryan is believed to have been at the scene of Daugherty's shooting, though not the gunman, police sources told the New York Post.

Ramon Gil-Medrano, the third shooting victim, was shot dead about eight hours after Jaryan was killed in apparent retaliation for the young boy's death. Ramon, 16, was allegedly affiliated with the 800 YGz, or 'Young Gunnaz,' gang.

Police sources told the New York Post that Gil-Medrano was at the scene when Jaryan was shot dead but it was not immediately clear if he was the shooter.

The young Crips member is pictured holding an apparent gun

NYPD data shows that murder rates are up 4.7% in 2021 compared to last year as of July 11. There have been 225 murders citywide this year compared to 215 last year.

Shooting victims are up 22.2% year over year, with 931 shooting incidents in 2021 compared to 762 in 2020 citywide by July 11, NYPD data shows. The number of shooting incidents has increased from 623 in 2020 to 803 in 2021, a 28.9% jump.

However, those rates are much starker when examined just for the Bronx borough of New York City.

Of those 225 murders in New York City this year, 69 of them were in the Bronx  making up a whopping 31% of all murders in the Big Apple. There were 49 murders in the borough last year, making up only 22% of all murders across the city by July 11, 2020.

The number of shooting victims in the Bronx specifically has jumped 64.8% year-over-year, from 193 shooting incidents in 2020 to 318 in 2021. That means about 42% of all shooting victims in New York City came from the Bronx this year.
The father of a five-year-old girl who vanished from her home in Tennessee a month ago offered a grim prediction that his daughter is no longer alive, saying: 'I'll see her in the resurrection.

Summer Moon-Utah Wells was reported missing from her Rogersville home on June 15 around 5.30pm after her parents said she went into the basement alone and then disappeared.

In an interview with a local newspaper on Monday, Summer's father Donald Wells said he doesn't expect the girl will be found alive.

'Statistically speaking, there's a good chance she's already dead,' Donald told the Kingsport Times-News. 'I hate to think that. I love her with all my heart.'

'If nothing else,' he continued, 'I'll see her in the resurrection. As long as I keep the commandments and do what I'm supposed to do, I'll see her.'

Summer's parents have maintained that she was lured away from the home by a stranger - but authorities have not labeled the case an abduction and say they are still exploring 'all possibilities'.

Summer Moon-Utah Wells was reported missing from her home in Rogersville, Tennessee, on June 15. In an interview this week Summer's father expressed fear she's no longer alive

'Statistically speaking, there's a good chance she's already dead,' Donald Wells (left) told the Kingsport Times-News. 'I hate to think that. I love her with all my heart'

Summer had been outside planting flowers with her mother, Candus Bly, and her grandmother, Donald previously told WVLT, and went inside on her own. She was reportedly wearing a pink shirt and grey shorts, and may have been barefoot.

In his newspaper interview, Donald suggested that someone may have been 'hiding in the weeds there waiting for her to go into the basement'.

He said his belief was confirmed when police dogs picked up her scent in the backyard and followed it through the woods, eventually reaching the end of their road.

'We've had several people sneaking around there, but we've had them sneaking around at night,' he said. 'We've never had somebody up there at 5.30 in the afternoon that we know of. They didn't come up the driveway.

'They came up a dog trail from the woods,' he said. 'The dog that they used, that's where the scent took them - down through the woods, not the driveway.'

'It's really discouraging,' Donald added. 'Only God can turn this around at this point.'

'The police can't come up with anything,' he said. 'All these people on Facebook all over the world can't come up with anything. Nobody can. Only God can.'

Donald also said he would 'do anything to have my baby back,' and has to put his faith in God.

'I've made up my mind not to let Satan win,' he said. 'I've still got to move forward. I've still got to go to work. I've still got to try, even though I miss her.

'We live in an evil world,' he added. 'I'm not the first one to lose a family member. All sorts of tragedies have happened since the beginning of creation. There's been all kin ds of bad stuff going on.'

Despite these 'tragedies,' though, he said he is not going to go back to drinking.

'I'm not going to let Satan convince me to go drinking,' Donald said in the phone interview with the local newspaper. 'I'm not going down that road. I choose life. I choose God.'

Summer was last seen wearing a pink shirt and grey shorts, and may have been barefoot

She is described as being about three-feet tall and weighing approximately 40 pounds, with close-cropped blonde hair and blue eyes

Both Donald and his wife, Candus, have criminal histories, but reportedly passed a lie-detector test as part of an investigation into Summer's disappearance. They also have three sons

Both he and Candus have previous criminal records, according to FOX News.

Donald was arrested on domestic assault charges in 2020, leading Candus to file for an order of protection against him, writing: 'I am afraid for my children and myself.'

She later asked for the order to be dismissed and the charges against Donald were dropped on April 21, two months before Summer's disappearance.

Both parents were ordered to take a lie-detector test as part of the investigation into Summer's disappearance, FOX reports, and reportedly passed.

'At first I didn't get no sleep for two days,' Donald recalled in his interview. 'It was the worrst misery and pain I've ever felt in my life. I wasn't able to take a lie-detector test.

'They made me wait a little bit,' he said, 'but when I did take it I passed.

'They made Candus wait five days longer to take hers,' he recounted. 'She just wasn't able to. She tried and she wasn't able to.

'People are saying we failed and we took another test. That's not the case, so when we did take them we both passed.'

He added that his three sons and mother-in-law were also questioned about Summer's disappearance, and claimed that in the aftermath someone created a fake social media profile for him 'and then they put on there that I buried some other woman's body at the lake.

'So the [Tennessee Bureau of Investigation] has been at the lake looking for her body,' he said. 'It's just ridiculous what people are doing.'

Donald also said that Summer 'loved me and I don't know why.'

'I've never had someone love me that much in my life, and it's been awesome between me and her,' he claimed. 'It really has killed me since she's been gone.'

Summer was reportedly last seen entering the basement of the Rogersville home, seen here

Donald said police dogs picked up Summer's scent in the backyard and followed it through the woods, ultimately leading to the end of their road

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation looked into reports that a body was dumped in a nearby lake, Donald said

Tennessee investigators have since received nearly 1,000 tips in connection with her disappearance, but the Hawkins County Sheriff's Office said none of the leads have panned out.

'Right now, everything is still on the table,' Hawkins County Sheriff Ronnie Lawson said in a video posted to Twitter on Monday. 'We're still trying to find out what happened to Summer, so everyone's still a person of interest.'

Investigators are still looking for a red pickup truck that may have been nearby when Summer went missing and are asking neighbors to check their home security and trail cameras for any evidence that might help locate Summer.

The circumstances surrounding her disappearance have yet to be determined, authorities said, and have not yet announced a person of interest of a suspect in the case.

The investigators had to trek through tough terrain in the woods as part of their investigation

ENDANGERED CHILD ALERT: We need your help to find 4-year-old Summer Moon-Utah Wells, missing from Rogersville.



If you see her, please call the Hawkins County Sheriffs Office at 423-272-7121 or the TBI at 1-800-TBI-FIND. pic.twitter.com/HihurzP6Wy  Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (@TBInvestigation) June 16, 2021

Tennessee Bureau of Investigation assistant special agent in charge Shelly Smitherman sad the case has been 'frustrating' for law enforcement.

Initial searches were marred by poor cellular service and challenging terrain in the woods near the home, and they have still not received a credible lead.

'Typically on an AMBER alert ... within a couple of days, we have a tip or lead, or have an idea if they've been abducted, if they maybe left into the woods,' she said in another video posted to Twitter on Tuesday.

'Somebody saw something that leads us hopefully to get an answer where the child went or if they were taken. We're going to have some tip or lead,' she said, adding that the fact that they have not received such information in this case 'is the frustrating part for law enforcement.'

But, they said, they are continuing to look into 'all possibilities,' and pushed back investigators claims that the massive search placed a 'burden' on the sheriff's office or budget reserves.

'I wouldn't support ending a search with credible leads,' Hawkins County Commissioner Jason Roach told FOX. 'But that's not part of the conversation at all.'

He said the county always overestimates its expenditures and underestimates its tax revenue, giving it flexibility to shift funds in case of emergency situations, like Summer's disappearance.

Summer is described as being about three-feet tall and weighing approximately 40 pounds, with close-cropped blonde hair and blue eyes.

Anyone with information about her whereabouts is asked to call the Hawkins County Sheriff's Office at (423) 272- 7121 or the TBI at 1-800-TBI-FIND.
Johnson & Johnson has recalled five of its Neutrogena and Aveeno aerosol spray sunscreens after internal testing uncovered the cancer-causing chemical benzene in some samples.

The New Jersey-based company on Wednesday told consumers to immediately stop using the products and discard them.

J&J insisted only low levels of benzene were found, which would not be expected to pose a health risk, but said the company was voluntarily recalling the five sunscreens 'out of an abundance of caution'.

The affected products are Aveeno Protect + Refresh aerosol sunscreen, and four Neutrogena sunscreen versions: Beach Defense aerosol sunscreen, CoolDry Sport aerosol sunscreen, Invisible Daily Defense aerosol sunscreen and UltraSheer aerosol sunscreen.

Johnson & Johnson has recalled five of its Neutrogena and Aveeno aerosol spray sunscreens after internal testing uncovered the cancer-causing chemical benzene in some samples. Aveeno Protect + Refresh aerosol sunscreen (above) is one of the five recalled products

The New Jersey-based company on Wednesday told consumers to immediately stop using the products and discard them. The affected products include Beach Defense aerosol sunscreen (left) and UltraSheer aerosol sunscreen (right)

CoolDry Sport aerosol sunscreen (left) and Invisible Daily Defense aerosol sunscreen (right) are also among the affected products

The recall only impacts sunscreen products packaged in aerosol cans, which were distributed nationwide through retailers.

All can sizes and all levels of sun protection factor or SPF are included.

J&J is also notifying distributors and retailers to stop selling the products and arranging for their return.

Benzene is classified as a human carcinogen, a substance that could potentially cause cancer depending on the level and extent of exposure.

It can be inhaled through the airwaves or the skin.

J&J said benzene is not an ingredient used in its sunscreen products and it is investigating the cause of the contamination.

'Daily exposure to benzene in these aerosol sunscreen products at the levels detected in our testing would not be expected to cause adverse health consequences,' the company said in a press release announcing the recall.

Consumers should contact their physician or healthcare provider if they have any concerns, questions or have experienced any problems related to using these products.

The company also said customers can contact its customer care center with any questions and to request a refund and that any adverse reactions from using the products should be reported to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

J&J insisted only low levels of benzene were found, which would not be expected to pose a health risk, but said the company was voluntarily recalling the five sunscreens 'out of an abundance of caution.' Pictured the pharma giant's California office

J&J said it had notified the FDA of the recall.

The recall marks yet another blow for J&J, one of the world's largest producers of consumer health products.

The company already faces billions of dollars of potential court losses and settlements from damages claims related to its baby powder, vaginal mesh implants and opioid painkillers.

Last month, the US Supreme Court rejected the company's appeal seeking to overturn a verdict ordering it to pay $2.1 billion to women who said its iconic talcum powder products contained asbestos and caused them to develop ovarian cancer.

The top court refused to review the case, giving no comment for the justices' decision.

The appeal was sent to the court after the Missouri Supreme Court upheld the ruling last year.

J&J first faced scrutiny over the safety of its baby powder following an investigative report by Reuters in 2018 that found the company knew for decades that the powder contained asbestos.

Last month, the US Supreme Court rejected the company's appeal seeking to overturn a verdict ordering it to pay $2.1 billion to women who said its iconic talcum powder products (above) contained asbestos and caused them to develop ovarian cancer

The earliest mention of the chemical in the product was found in documents from 1957 and 1958.

The company is now facing more than 21,800 lawsuits against it over the products.

In June, J&J also agreed to a $230 million settlement with New York state that bans the company from promoting opioids.

The deal allowed the pharma giant to resolve litigation and avoid a trial over its role in the epidemic, while confirming it will stop making or selling opioids in the US.

J&J was one of several major pharma firms accused of fueling America's opioid crisis which has killed more than than half a million people since 1999.

Meanwhile, the company's COVID-19 vaccine rollout has also been hampered by production problems and the shot has been linked to two very rare side effects: Guillain-Barre Syndrome and a potentially life threatening blood clotting condition.

The J&J one-dose vaccine has been linked to clots along with a low platelet-count condition known as thrombocytopenia.

The side effect is rare and the company is now looking into whether its vaccine can be modified to reduce the risk.

The FDA is planning to release a new warning that the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine is linked to a rare autoimmune disease called Guillain-Barre syndrome. Pictured: A member of the Philadelphia Fire Department prepares a dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, March 2021

This week, it emerged the FDA is adding a new warning to the J&J vaccine label due the risk of Guillain-Barre Syndrome.

Guillain-Barre Syndrome is a rare autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system, temporarily paralyzing parts of the body.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said it has received about 100 preliminary reports of Guillain-Barre following the one-dose vaccine

Most cases have occurred about two weeks after vaccination and mostly in men aged 50 and older.

It is extremely rare with only 100 cases reported out of 12.8 million doses administered.

However, such a condition has not been tied to the two other vaccines available in the US - Pfizer and Moderna.

US regulators have said that the vaccine's benefits outweigh the risks.
The days of Jaws, man-eating monsters and week-long Discovery Channel specials could be numbered after a move to rebrand 'shark attacks' as simply 'shark bites'.

State government departments are being urged to heed calls from scientists to change the words they use about incidents involving sharks around Australia.

Environmentalists say the new language is more reflective of what's actually happening when swimmers or surfers encounter the ocean predators.

Rather than hungry beasts looking for their next meal, the sharks are usually harmless and often swim unseen beside humans without incident.

The days of Jaws, man-eating monsters and week-long Discovery Channel specials could be numbered after a move to rebrand 'shark attacks' as simply 'shark bites'. (A great white shark is pictured here as a woman swims past)

Last week drone footage revealed several sharks swimming close to swimmers and surfers off Bondi without incident as they feasted on huge schools of baitfish.

In Australia so far this year, researchers say there have been 11 incidents involving sharks this year, two of which involved the shark being provoked, and one fatality.

Worldwide overall, there have been 47 incidents in 2021 with four provoked, according to trackingsharks.com, resulting in six deaths.

But using language like 'shark attack' and 'man-eaters' is misleading and can actually cause harm, say the scientists.

The publicity around the incidents and the emotive language can pressure politicians into commissioning mass culls of potentially endangered species.

By changing the emphasis from a shark attack to a shark bite, they hope it will put incidents into context along the lines of the difference between a dog bite and a dog attack.

'It helps dispel inherent assumptions that sharks are ravenous, mindless man-eating monsters,' Dr Leonardo Guida, a shark researcher at the Australian Marine Conservation Society, told the SMH.

Last week drone footage revealed several sharks swimming close to swimmers and surfers off Bondi without incident as they feasted on huge schools of baitfish. (Seen here is a young woman surfing)

Australian champion surfer Mick Fanning famously fought off a shark on camera as he waited for a wave during a 2015 tournament in South Africa (pictured here)

He emerged from the water rattled but unscathed after punching and kicking the shark as it closed in on him and bit through his leg rope (pictured here)

A senior Queensland government official is said to have told a Noosa shark symposium in May that the state would start using 'bites' instead of 'attacks'.

The state's SharkSmart website offers a series of tips for swimmers, surfers and snorkellers on how to 'minimise your risk of a negative encounter with a shark.'

'I congratulated them for their change of terminology,' said marine campaigner with Humane Society International, Lawrence Chlebeck.

NSW Department of Primary Industries says it has already started the transition after consulting with shark bite survivors in The Bite Club.

A spokesman added: 'NSW DPI is respectful that each incident is best described by the individual involved.

'DPI generally refers to 'incidents' or 'interactions' in our formal shark reporting.'

Rather than hungry beasts looking for their next meal, sharks, like the one pictured here, are usually harmless and often swim unseen beside humans without incident.

In Australia so far this year, researchers say there have been 11 incidents involving sharks this year, two of which involved the shark being provoked, and one fatality. Pictured here is Mick Fanning with his surfboard

Australian champion surfer Mick Fanning famously fought off a shark on camera as he waited for a wave during a 2015 tournament in South Africa.

He emerged from the water rattled but unscathed after punching and kicking the shark as it closed in on him and bit through his leg rope.

'I just saw fin - I didn't see the teeth, I was waiting for some teeth to come at me as I was swimming. I punched it in the back,' he said at the time.

'I saw the whole thing just thrashing around - I punched it a couple of times, but I felt like it was dragging me under water.'

But environmentalists insist sharks are often just trying to work out what something is by using their jaws to mouth the strange object.

Unfortunately the object occasionally turns out to be a surfer and his surf board.

At that point, they say, the sharks will frequently lose interest and simply swim off - although fatal damage may have been done first.

They insist sharks rarely, if ever, launch an actual attack on humans without provocation, and more than a third of shark incidents cause no injury at all.
A 14-year-old boy accused of stabbing a Florida cheerleader 114 times allegedly bragged to friends about wanting to drag a random person into the woods and kill them.

Aiden Fucci was charged with first-degree murder after the body of his 13-year-old classmate, Tristyn Bailey, was found dumped near his home in St. Johns, Florida, on Mother's Day.

New details and evidence emerged late Wednesday after prosecutors released a trove of documents related to the case, including how he allegedly responded, 'how is that my problem?' after being told Bailey's body had been found.

Among the documents were police interviews with Fucci's friends and family, and the Medical Examiner's findings, which revealed Bailey had 35 stab wounds to her head and neck.

Aiden Fucci was charged with first-degree murder after the body of his 13-year-old classmate, Tristyn Bailey, was found dumped near his home in St. Johns, Florida on Mother's Day

According to the Medical Examiner's report, she had 49 defensive stab wounds on her arms. Her autopsy found no evidence of sexual assault.

Bailey had the words 'karma' written on her left ankle and a smiley face drawn on her right ankle, the report showed. It is not clear, however, whether she drew those herself.

One of Fucci's friends, another classmate at Patriot Oaks Academy where Bailey also attended, told police that the accused murderer frequently talked about killing people, according to a St. Johns County Sheriff's Office report.

The friend said that within a month of Bailey being killed, Fucci said he wanted to murder someone by dragging them into the woods and stabbing them.

She also said Fucci would 'take his knife out and pretend to stab her with it' and that he would 'draw graphic pictures depicting mutilated bodies'.

The friend also told detectives that Fucci often heard voices when he was angry that would tell him to kill people, according to the report.

When detectives searched Fucci's home, they uncovered a notebook filled with 'violent' drawings of women, including one that showed a female with red Xs on her breasts and severed arms with blood pouring out.

Fucci posted this Snapchat selfie from the back of a police car after he was taken in for questioning on May 10 - a day after Bailey's body was found dumped in a wooded area near his home with 114 stab wounds

New details and evidence emerged late Wednesday after prosecutors released a trove of documents related to the case, including how Fucci (above during an initial court hearing) allegedly responded 'how is that my problem?' after being told Bailey's body had been found

Also included in the trove of documents was an incident report regarding the moment his mother told him in a police interview room that Bailey's body had been found.

According to the report, Fucci replied: 'How is that my problem?'

Fucci's mother, Crystal Smith, has been charged with evidence tampering after she allegedly retrieved her son's blood-stained jeans from his bedroom and washed them following his arrest

Fucci's mother, Crystal Smith, was charged with evidence tampering. She is accused of retrieving her son's blood-stained jeans from his bedroom and washing them following his arrest.

When police searched Fucci's home, they allegedly found a Buck knife sheath in his room, as well as shoes and a shirt with blood on them.

A knife found discarded in a pond near where Bailey's body was found was consistent with her stab wounds, according to police.

An examination of the jeans Fucci's mother is accused of washing had traces of blood also found in a drain in the family's home.

Fucci initially was arrested on a second-degree murder charge and held in a juvenile justice center the day after Bailey's body was found.

Authorities said his DNA was found on Bailey's body.

Prosecutors later upgraded it to first-degree murder and Fucci will now face trial as an adult.

Bailey suffered 35 stab wounds to her head and neck and 49 defensive stab wounds to her arms. Her autopsy found no evidence of sexual assault

During a news conference announcing the charge, State Attorney R.J. Larizza said that charging Fucci as an adult was the only choice his office could make.

'Every time that arm went back and every time that arm went down, that was premeditation,' Larizza said.

He indicated at the time that his office will seek life in prison without parole.

Bailey's body was found by a local resident who was out for a walk just hours after she had been reported missing by her family.

Surveillance camera footage is said to have shown Bailey and Fucci walking towards the spot where her body was dumped the night she disappeared.

Fucci allegedly walked back alone afterwards.

After he was taken in for questioning, Fucci posted a selfie on Snapchat from the back of a police car with the caption: 'Anyone seen Tristyn?'

The photo sparked outrage and the St John's County Sheriff's Office later had to explain that Fucci was taken in for questioning as a person of interest, which meant he was not handcuffed or had his phone wasn't confiscated.

Larizza said during the press conference that the Snapchat post indicated how Fucci had no remorse for his actions.
A woman who was sexually assaulted and held captive for three days by a man she met on Tinder was rescued by a good Samaritan who found her screaming for help in the street in Oakland, California.

The victim ran for several blocks crying out in Maxwell Park on Monday before Oakland resident Erik Schulz finally stepped in to help her, Schulz wrote in a post on NextDoor this week.

After hearing the screams and searching for the source Schulz said he found the woman, who has not been named, 'shaking, crying and almost incoherent'.

Schulz said that several other residents heard the cries but didn't do anything to help the woman.

A woman who was sexually assaulted and held captive for three days by a man she met on Tinder was rescued by a good Samaritan who found her screaming for help in the street in Oakland, California (file photo)

The victim ran for several blocks crying out in Maxwell Park on Monday before Oakland resident Erik Schulz finally stepped in to help her, he wrote in a post (pictured) on NextDoor

The woman explained that she has been held against her will and sexually assaulted for the last three days in an Oakland residence by her Tinder date

The woman explained that she has been held against her will and sexually assaulted for the last three days in an Oakland residence by her Tinder date.

As the brave stranger stood with the victim, her alleged captor drove up and began to threaten to kill her as the brave stranger stood in between them.

The alleged kidnapper pulled his car up a few houses to sit and watch the house before eventually driving away.

Schulz's sister called the police and brought the woman inside as his wife feed her because she 'hadn't eaten'.

Oakland police showed up on the scene in 15 minutes to get the woman's statement and then took an Oakland man into custody.

Oakland resident Erik Schulz heard the screams from his backyard and went searching for the distraught woman

He posted a message on NextDoor calling out his neighbors for not stepping in to help the victim saying 'No one did anything'

The police department wrote in a statement: 'On July 12th, 2021 at approximately 16:59, Oakland Police Officers were dispatched to the 5400 Block of Fleming Avenue to investigate a report of a kidnapping.

'A preliminary investigation revealed that an adult female (Non-Oakland resident) was falsely imprisoned and sexually assaulted by her male partner.'

What added to Schulz's distress about the situation was the fact that the woman ran screaming for help for several blocks in his neighborhood as no one helped her.

In his NextDoor post he wrote, 'Woman escaped being kidnapped and imprisoned yesterday. No one did anything.'

He explained that he lives in a 'high traffic area' saying 'There were many people walking dogs on the street, driving by and parking including neighbors. I could hear her screaming for help from my backyard.'

Schulz pleaded with his Oakland neighbors: 'Please, I'm begging, assume the person asking for help needs it and at the very least call someone who can help.'
A raft of supermarkets have announced they will encourage customers and shop workers to continue wearing masks in their supermarkets from July 19.

Tesco, Asda, Aldi and Waitrose have become the latest retailers to say they will encourage customers and shop workers to continue wearing masks in their supermarkets from July 19.

On Wednesday evening, fellow supermarket chain Sainsbury's said it will encourage all customers to wear a face covering if they can after 'freedom day'.

It comes after the Government published guidance for businesses which said it 'expects and recommends' masks to be worn by workers and customers in crowded, enclosed spaces as the work from home order ends.

Boris Johnson said businesses were 'perfectly capable' of understanding new guidance on face coverings and guidelines.

A raft of supermarkets have announced they will encourage customers and shop workers to continue wearing masks in their supermarkets from July 19 after Sainsbury's announced similar measures on Wednesday (pictured, stock image, Sainsbury's worker wearing a mask)

It comes after the Government published guidance for businesses which said it 'expects and recommends' masks to be worn by workers and customers in crowded, enclosed spaces

Mask 'shambles' escalates as police are ordered to KEEP wearing them England's mask shambles descended further into farce today as police officers were told to keep wearing them after Monday's end to lockdown. The National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) has written to all forces advising that existing infection control measures should continue, despite face coverings no longer being required by law. It came after the Government's own advice to businesses on reopening work premises from July 19 last night recommended bosses encourage the wearing of masks indoors. The First Ministers of Scotland and Wales have also said they will keep laws requiring masks to be worn in most indoor settings after their loosen their own lockdowns next week. And London mayor Sadiq Khan has already ruled that masks will be required on London transport. Wales' First Minister Mark Drakeford said today that Boris Johnson's decision to make masks optional in England - and rely on the common sense of the public - was an 'outlier' and it would be better if England followed his and Nicola Sturgeon's example. But Cabinet minister Robert Jenrick today insisted that as the vaccine rollout continues it is right to allow individuals and businesses to make their own judgments about what precautions to take. Advertisement

'We are moving away from legal but sadly the pandemic is not over and people must remain cautious,' he said, speaking at the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre in Coventry.

Tesco has said it will also leave a raft of virus curbs, such as distancing measures, in place across its shops.

Last week, the supermarket started an internal review regarding its mask-wearing policies ahead of the latest easing of restrictions.

The firm said it will continue to have capacity limits in its stores, protective screens at checkouts, hand sanitiser stations and regular cleaning after speaking with customers and colleagues.

A Tesco spokesman said: 'Since the start of the pandemic, we have focused on ensuring everyone can get the food they need in a safe environment.

'Having listened to our customers and colleagues, we will continue to have safety measures in place in our stores; these include limiting the number of people in store at any time, protective screens at every checkout, hand sanitiser stations and regular cleaning.

'We're asking our customers and colleagues to be on the safe side, and so from July 19 we'll be encouraging our colleagues to wear face coverings whilst they work and encouraging our customers to do the same when they shop with us.'

Asda will have signage and announcements to encourage customers to follow Government guidance and will continue to provide face coverings in shops for people who wish to use them.

A spokesman said: 'We encourage customers to be respectful to each other and to follow the Government guidance on face coverings when shopping in our stores after 19 July.'

Staff and customers at Waitrose and John Lewis have also been recommended to continue wearing masks but said it will ultimately be up to individual judgment.

A spokesman for the John Lewis Partnership, the parent company of both brands, said: 'In line with Government guidance, we will recommend that our customers and partners in England continue to wear a face covering, unless exempt, from July 19.

The supermarket chains say they will also retain other safety measures, with Asda announcing they will have signage to encourage customers to follow Government guidance

Tesco and Aldi were among the supermarkets who will be encouraging their customers to wear masks even when the rules change

'The decision over whether to do so or not, when in our shops, will be for each individual to take, based on their own judgment.

Not the law, but 'expected': Government guidance on face coverings The legal requirement to wear a face mask in England is expected to be scrapped from July 19. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said it will be a matter of 'personal responsibility', while transport operators and places such as shops can decide their own policies on the issue. How are the rules on face masks changing? Almost all the remaining Covid restrictions in England will be removed on July 19 if the Prime Minister confirms the move on Monday afternoon. The legal requirement to wear a face covering is due to end but official guidance will say they should still be worn in some settings as a voluntary measure. Vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi said on Sunday: 'The guidelines will be very clear on things like mask-wearing. There's an expectation of people to wear masks indoors, in crowded places, on public transport.' What do people need to know about wearing masks? Ideally, face coverings should be made of multi-layers of high quality cotton. People are advised to sanitise their hands before putting one on and removing it, and to wash masks daily. When wearing a face covering, it should cover the mouth and nose, with no gaps. Many experts believe face masks are better seen as part of a package of measures, which includes things such as social distancing. Advertisement

'Across all of our stores we will be retaining perspex screens and hand sanitising stations.

'We will also maintain all of the hand hygiene and store cleaning disciplines which have served us well since the start of the pandemic.'

The retail group added that it will continue to follow legislation in Scotland and Wales which requires customers and employees to wear masks, unless exempt.

Sainsbury's also confirmed earlier this week that measures that will stay in place in stores to help continue keeping everyone safe.

Sainsbury's chief executive Simon Roberts said: 'As we respond to the recent change in government guidance, we know that safety is still top of mind for many of our colleagues and customers.

'Our colleagues' safety is vital and many of our colleagues would feel more comfortable if those who can wear face coverings continue to wear them.

'We've listened closely to our customers too and they are telling us the same.

'We're asking everyone to be considerate and, while we understand wearing a face covering will now be a personal choice, we want to ensure we best support and protect each other in the weeks and months ahead.'

Supermarket Aldi has confirmed its position on masks in its stores, following confirmation from Tesco and Sainsbury's that they will be asking customers to continue wearing them

An Aldi spokesperson said: 'From Monday 19th July, we'll continue to encourage customers and colleagues to wear face coverings when they're in store. Other measures like hand sanitiser and screens will also stay in place.

'Face masks are still required for customers and colleagues in our Welsh and Scottish stores, in line with the latest guidance.'

Supermarkets are no the only businesses to insist on the continuation of face coverings.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has asked TfL to enforce the use of mask wearing on buses and trains as a 'condition of carriage', even after legal restrictions have been lifted on July 19.

Unless people are exempt, they will be required to wear a mask on public transport even after the laws change on Freedom Day.

It also comes after Health Secretary Sajid Javid suggested it would be 'irresponsible' not to wear masks in crowded places, while cabinet ministers Rishi Sunak and Robert Jenrick previously indicated they are keen to ditch masks as soon as they are no longer mandatory.

Masks farce continues: Train passengers will have to put face coverings on when they cross the border from England into Wales, First Minister Mark Drakeford confirms

Mark Drakeford said people arriving from England by train would be required to don a face covering as soon as they entered Wales.

The Welsh First Minister said he hoped people would observe the 'clear' advice on face coverings given by Boris Johnson but that the practice would be a legal requirement in Wales.

However he said he had not expressed his concerns over the UK Government's changes to the quarantine rules for those who have been double jabbed returning to England from amber list countries.

Mr Drakeford told BBC Breakfast: 'The people who run the transport system will make sure that people are aware that as they come into Wales different rules apply.

'If you travel into Wales by road now you will see signs that say 'Welsh rules apply'. That will be true on trains and other forms of transport as well.

'I hope people will observe the clear advice of the prime minister in England, that they should continue to wear face coverings on public transport.

'Here in Wales the rule will be clear, it isn't simply advice, it's what the law will require.'

Asked when he had last spoken to the Prime Minister, Mr Drakeford replied: 'I've had one telephone conversation with the Prime Minister since our election on May 6 and we've had one meeting where the first ministers met with the Prime Minister.

The Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford said masks had to by put on by law in Wales

It means those travelling after Freedom Day by train will have to wear them after border cross

Wales has and will have different rules to those in England following the July 19 unlocking

'That was a more lengthy meeting, a proper meeting, so those have been the contacts that I've had.'

Mr Drakeford said yesterday that Wales will move fully into alert Level 1 from July 17 - following a four-week pause due to the rise of the Delta variant. If infection rates then remain stable and even more people are vaccinated, Wales will move to Level 0 on August 7.

'The virus is still with us and we know many people are still anxious about going out and about,' Mr Drakeford said.

'Social distancing requirements and mask rules will remain indoors from 17 July. But we will gradually ease masks as the public health risk decreases.'

From July 17, up to six people can meet indoors in private homes and holiday accommodation, organised indoor events can take place for up to 1,000 people seated and up to 200 standing, and ice rinks can reopen.

Mr Drakeford said: 'We are entering a new phase of the pandemic. Cases of the virus have risen sharply since the Delta variant emerged six weeks ago but, thanks to our fantastic vaccination programme, we are not seeing these translate into large numbers of people falling seriously ill or needing hospital treatment.

'We can be reasonably confident that vaccination has weakened the link between infections and serious illness.

'But there is still a risk that this third wave of the pandemic could cause real harm - either direct harm from the virus or indirect harm from, for example, people having to isolate.

Mr Drakeford said Wales was 'entering a new phase of the pandemic' after cases rose

'We can move to alert Level 1 for indoor spaces from July 17 and go further for outdoor spaces because we know the risk of transmission outdoors is lower.

'We are also publishing plans for a new alert Level 0, which will have fewer legal restrictions but which will still need all of us to take steps to protect ourselves.'

The country's incidence rate is currently 147 cases of Covid-19 per 100,000 people - the lowest in the UK - and it also has one of the highest vaccination rates in the world.

On Tuesday, there were 69 people in Welsh hospitals with Covid-19.

If Wales moves to alert Level 0 on August 7, all premises will be able to open and most - but not all - restrictions will be removed and replaced with the ongoing requirement for all organisations and businesses to carry out Covid risk assessments.

There will also be no legal limit on the number of people who can meet others indoors, including in private homes.

Face coverings will continue to be required by law in most indoor public places and on public transport, with the exception of hospitality settings.

Mr Drakeford said: 'The pandemic is not over and the virus continues to spread across Wales, which makes it really important for everyone to say yes to vaccination and to do everything we can to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.

'Even though vaccines have weakened the link between the virus and hospitalisation, we are seeing young, fit people suffer from long Covid, which, for some, has a major impact on their lives.

'We have the headroom to continue to gradually remove restrictions, but each and every one of us has a really important part to play to keep Wales safe as we head into the summer.'

Mr Drakeford also confirmed that people who have who have been fully vaccinated in the UK will no longer need to self-isolate if they are returning from an amber list country, in line with the position in England and Scotland.
One of the Netherlands' best-known crime reporters has died after being shot in what is believed to be a gangland hit.

Peter R. de Vries, known for his work in exposing the Dutch underworld, was shot in downtown Amsterdam around 7.30pm on July 6 while walking to his car following one of his regular appearances on a current affairs television show.

The 64-year-old was shot five or six times including once in the head and once in the chest, and was rushed to hospital by air ambulance.

His death was announced today and two suspects have been charged over the shooting.

The alleged shooter is a 21-year-old wannabe rapper, while a 35-year-old Polish mechanic living in the Netherlands is accused of driving the getaway car. They were arrested not long after de Vries was wounded.

Delano Geerman, who raps under the name of Slick, is accused of opening fire on de Vries before Kamil E drove him away from the scene.

The rapper allegedly accepted a 125,000 bounty from a 'murder gang' linked to Mafia boss Ridouan Taghi, according to local reports.

Peter R. de Vries, one of the Netherlands' best-known crime reporters, has died after being repeatedly shot in what is believed to be a gangland hit

The suspected shooter is 21-year-old wannabe rapper Delano Geerman (pictured) who performs under the name of Slick

RTL, the Dutch network De Vries regularly worked for, cited the family statement as saying: 'Peter fought to the end, but was unable to win the battle.'

The statement says he died surrounded by loved ones.

'Peter has lived by his conviction: "On bended knee is no way to be free." We are unbelievably proud of him and at the same time inconsolable.'

Suspect Delano has released a series of rap tracks online, Dutch papers report, and in 2013 participated in reality TV show So You Think You Can Dance as a teenager.

Meanwhile Kamil lives at home with his heavily pregnant wife and their son and daughter, and has registered an 'assembly work' business at the address.

The shooting comes amid the high-profile prosecution of Taghi, with Vries acting as 'confidential counsel' to the state's star witness Nabil B whose brother and lawyer have already been shot dead.

De Vries was gunned down in broad daylight in Amsterdam as he walked to his car following a regular TV appearance (scene, pictured)

Ridouan Taghi: Angel of Death 'leader' and Holland's most-wanted Born in Morocco in 1977, Taghi emigrated to the Netherlands in 1980 with his parents who settled in Vianen. He became involved in a life of crime as a teenager and was involved with a gang known as the Bad Boys who operated in the Nieuwegein region. Between 1992 and 1998, he racked up a series of convictions for burglary and possession of weapons. He is then alleged to have got involved in the drug trade and become an expert in 'disposing' of people who others wanted out of the way. Between 2014 and 2019, Taghi is alleged to have been involved in at least 10 killings, including the deaths of Reduan B - the brother of police informant Nabil B - and Derk Wiersum, Nabil's lawyer. Dubbed the Angel of Death, prosecutors say Taghi also ran a drug trafficking empire that was ferrying cocaine into the Netherlands. A warrant for his arrest was issued in 2018 and he became known as the Netherlands' most-wanted man when a 100,000 bounty was offered for information on his whereabouts - the largest ever offered by Dutch police. In December 2019 he was found living in Dubai, where he had fled the previous year using a fake ID. Taghi was arrested in a joint operation by police in the Netherlands, Morocco and the UAE, and extradited back to Holland. He is now being held in maximum-security jail in Vught where he is being prosecuted for murder and drug trafficking as part of a Mafia-style 'maxi-trial' alongside 16 co-defendants. Advertisement

Delano had once dreamed of a career as a performer, according to Dutch newspaper ED, which found a performing arts company called Demper Music registered under his name.

In a business filing, it lists his activities as: Artist, singing, giving performances, dance and production.

Several rap tracks of his also appear online, where he sings about pursuing a life of crime.

'School and work didn't work so I chose the street,' he sings on one track, while on another says 'parents want me on the right path, but I am on the thieves path.'

Meanwhile news site AD called at the address where Kamil lived, and found his heavily pregnant wife at home with their son and daughter - though they refused to speak, other than to confirm police had visited their home in the night.

Neighbours said the Poles had been subletting the house for around two months from a Turkish family, but refused to say any more or give their names for fear of reprisals.

Meanwhile De Telegraaf reports that, on July 1, Kamil was arrested for making a threat with a firearm and that armed police searched his home - though said no further details were available.

The pair were arrested just an hour after last Tuesday's 7.30pm shooting after police used number plate recognition software and witness descriptions to identify their car.

Investigators have not yet disclosed why they attacked Vries and have not officially linked the attempted murder to Taghi and his ongoing trial - though few observers believe the two events are unconnected.

The attack on Vries marks the third time that someone linked to the case has been gunned down, after witness Nabil B's brother Reduan was shot dead on his doorstep in 2018.

Derk Wiersum, the lawyer representing Nabil, was then killed in a similar fashion in 2019, an attack that observers said risked turning the Netherlands into a South American-style narco-state.

De Vries had agreed to be Nabil's counselor in spring 2020 when two new lawyers - Peter Schouten and Onno de Jong - also joined the case, De Telegraaf reports.

But, unlike the lawyers, de Vries had refused offers of security to protect him.

That is despite the fact that - even before he joined the case - de Vries had publicly spoken of suspicions that Taghi had placed him on a 'hit list'.

Taghi subsequently wrote to de Vries assuring him that he had 'nothing to fear'.

Taghi is currently being held in maximum-security jail in the city of Vught, suspected of leading a cocaine-smuggling gang called the 'Angels of Death' and of being involved in a string of murders.

Police said that several properties in Tiel, Maurik and Rotterdam overnight and seized hard drives and ammunition.

Speaking about the shooting, a police spokesman said that 'Peter R. de Vries was shot down in Lange Leidsedwarsstraat,' referring to a street near one of the city's largest public squares.

The shooting happened in broad daylight in front of dozens of witnesses, who said a slender, light-skinned man wearing a military-print tracksuit, black facemask and cap had walked up to him and opened fire.

Royce de Vries (left), the son of Dutch crime reporter Peter (right), has spoken out after his father was shot in the head in Amsterdam last night in a suspected hit

Royce wrote a heartfelt Twitter post thanking people for their support as his father fights for life in hospital after being shot multiple times

Five or six shots were fired, hitting de Vries in the chest and head, before the gun fled on foot through two nearby streets.

Passersby rushed to help de Vries, calling medics and holding his hand until they arrived and took him to hospital.

Early in his career at De Telegraaf, where he started as a trainee when he was 20 years old, De Vries reported on the kidnapping of Freddy Heineken, the magnate of the beer company.

Heineken was eventually released and his kidnappers jailed including top Dutch criminal Willem Holleeder and Cor van Hout, whom de Vries later befriended before he was assassinated in 2003.

The crime reporter wrote two books about the investigation including one which was adapted into a 2015 film starring Sir Anthony Hopkins, Kidnapping Freddy Heineken.

Finance Minister Wopke Hoekstra said in Parliament he was 'deeply shocked' by the attack.

'We don't know the circumstances, but whatever the circumstances this is unimaginable and terrible news,' Hoekstra said.

Prime Minister Mark Rutte told a press conference in The Hague the attack was 'shocking and inconceivable'.

'It's an attack on a courageous journalist and by extension an attack on the freedom of the press, which is so essential for our democracy and rule of law,' he said.

King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima wrote in a statement: 'The report that journalist Peter R. De Vries was shot has shocked us deeply.

'He and all those dear to him are in our thoughts.

They said journalists must be able to do their work without threat.

'We feel connected to everyone who is committed to the free press in our constitutional state.'

'This is what you've been hoping all along that doesn't happen,' said Thomas Bruning, general secretary of the Dutch Association of Journalists.

'Of course it remains to be seen which activities of De Vries this is related to, but the attack took place in front of RTL Boulevard.

'This hits journalism right in the face. Let's hope and pray for his health.'

De Vries, who investigated more than 500 murder files, was known both for his fearless reporting on the Netherlands' present-day criminal underworld, and his work trying to close cold cases.

People leave flowers, candles and messages of support to Dutch crime reporter Peter R. de Vries at the spot where he was shot in Amsterdam on Tuesday night

People leave flowers, candles and messages of support to Peter R. de Vries in the Lange Leidsedwarsstraat in the center of Amsterdam

De Vries worked for various newspapers and magazines before spending 17 years on a television programme, named after himself.

He won an International Emmy Award in 2008 for a television show he made about the disappearance of U.S. teenager Natalee Holloway who vanished while she was on holiday in the Caribbean island of Aruba in 2005.

De Vries helped heap suspicion on Dutchman Joran van der Sloot, who had been identified but not arrested by police, by pointing out that he had lied several times during questioning.

De Vries eventually captured Sloot saying on camera that he had dumped Holloway's body in the ocean, though he was not jailed for the killing because he was already serving a 28-year term in Peru for the murder of Stephany Flores.

He was also the driving force behind the acquittal of two men known as the 'Putten two' who had been wrongly convicted of the murder of Christel Ambrosius near the town of Putten in 1994.

The pair were acquitted of the killing in 2002 after de Vries helped prove their innocence, and won compensation of 900,000 each. In 2008, another suspect was arrested and subsequently jailed for the killing.

De Vries had been a guest at Dutch broadcaster RTL Boulevard to talk about the case of Seif Ahmed, a hairdresser who was shot dead in his car in 2019.

He had also been subjected to threats from the criminal underworld in the past in connection with several cases.

In 2013 Willem Holleeder, the Heineken kidnapper, was convicted of making threats against De Vries.

Holleeder is currently serving a life sentence for his involvement in five murders.

Last year, De Vries helped to solve a cold case investigation more than 20 years after Nicky Verstappen died at the age of 11. Jos B sentenced to 12.5 years in prison in November and De Vries supported Verstappen's parents and was there during the entire trial.

Saskia Belleman said that his involvement in trials was of 'crutical importance' for the victim's family, Al Jazeera reported.

She added: 'It was his determination that made sure cases weren't forgotten and police and the judiciary decided to take another look.'

De Vries loved cycling and football, and held a season ticket for Ajax, a Dutch professional football club based in Amsterdam, and campaigned for refugee rights.

A refugee from Ethiopia Yosef Tekeste-Yemane said: 'I emailed all the Dutch media without a response, but he replied within five minutes.

'He was indignant, wanted to know more. He put our story on the political agenda.'

Queen Maxima and King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands speak about the shooting of de Vries while attending a press conference in Germany

Holland, the drug smugglers' paradise that gangs are turning into a narco-state with illicit operations worth billions

To the casual observer, the Netherlands might seem a liberal paradise - famously tolerant of cannabis and sex work, it is a nation that prides itself on a culture of 'pragmatic tolerance'.

But scratch the surface even a little, and what you expose is a blood-soaked criminal underworld that - at its worst - has echoes of South America.

Indeed, it is South American drugs that have brought much of the Netherlands' troubles - namely cocaine, for which the country's bustling ports act as a gateway to the rest of Europe.

Experts warn that Holland provides the 'ideal environment' for a drugs trade which has left the country in fear of becoming a 'narco-state'.

While more than 14,000kg of cocaine is seized by Dutch authorities every year, it is believed that around 56,000kg goes undetected, making Holland one of the major drug-trafficking hubs in Europe.

Busted: In one major drugs raid last year, more than two tons of cocaine with an estimated street value of 136million were found in a banana shipment in Rotterdam

Often hidden in fruit shipments, some of the lucrative stashes of cocaine are worth more than 100million alone and are sometimes smuggled along with firearms.

The criminal trade at Dutch ports has also started to seep into the mainland, with gang violence causing an outcry in Amsterdam where drug kingpins run money-laundering rackets and a 'ring of hustlers and parasites' have 'free rein'.

In one major drug bust last year, more than two tons of cocaine with an estimated street value of 136million were found in a banana shipment in Rotterdam.

Arriving from Ecuador, the illegal drugs were meant to use Holland as a gateway to Europe before making their way to Hungary.

Rotterdam is Europe's largest sea port and handles nearly 15million containers a year, only a small fraction of which are routinely scanned.

Even when containers are inspected, gangs can use accomplices at Dutch and Belgian docks to sneak past authorities.

Last year, police discovered that seven shipping containers had even been adapted into prison cells and a 'torture chamber' used by the criminal underworld.

Believed to be used for kidnappings, 'torture chamber' included what looked like a dentist's chair with straps for the prisoner's arms and legs.

Six people were arrested on suspicion of 'preparing kidnappings and hostage-taking' after the containers were discovered near the Belgian border in a raid linked to the drugs trade.

Pieter Tops, a professor at the Dutch police academy, said in October that Holland's tolerant penal system and its extensive transport links make it an 'ideal environment for the drugs trade'.

'Torture chamber': Last year, police discovered that seven shipping containers had even been adapted into prison cells used by the criminal underworld

The professor said that schoolchildren were sometimes offered 500 to transport a package while farmers were approached about letting out their land to drug gangs.

'The main problem is the enormous flow of money and its rippling effect throughout our society,' he told Dutch News.

A 2019 report by the EU's drug agency estimated that around 14,600kg of cocaine are seized in the Netherlands every year - with a separate IMF report giving a 'seizure rate' of around 20 per cent.

Tops said that each kilogram of cocaine is worth around 50,000, meaning the overall trade is worth billions.

In Amsterdam, a report commissioned by city authorities in 2019 found that hard drugs had led to rising violence and corruption at the hands of 'hustlers, parasites and extortionists'.

The Netherlands has a 'policy of toleration' on soft drugs which means that Amsterdam's 'coffee shops' are not prosecuted for selling marijuana.

'Separating soft and hard drugs shields the users of soft drugs from the criminal circuit that is involved in the hard drugs trade,' the government says.

But the report found that the same 'toleration' was gradually being extended to harder drugs, with up to 17 per cent of the population using cocaine or heroin.

'Amsterdam has given free rein...to a motley crew of drugs criminals, a ring of hustlers and parasites, middle-men and extortionists, of dubious notaries and real estate agent,' the report said.

At the top of the criminal chain are wealthy organised crime bosses who may not be physically located in Amsterdam, the report said.

At the bottom are 'lackeys such as scooter and taxi chauffeurs and even young messenger boys set to follow quite a career path: offering murder as a service.'

The report also found evidence of money-laundering systems and turf wars between drug retailers in Amsterdam.

Shipping hub: The port of Rotterdam is the largest in Europe and handles nearly 15million containers a year, making it an attractive gateway for drug smugglers

Across the Netherlands, around six per cent of men aged 15-34 and three per cent of women in the same age group say they use cocaine.

Cannabis produced in Holland is also sold to other countries, while Dutch ports serve as a point of transit for cocaine to be transported elsewhere in Europe.

In 2019, the killing of a lawyer for a protected witness in a drugs case led the head of a Dutch police union to say that 'we definitely have the characteristics of a narco-state'.

'Sure we're not Mexico. We don't have 14,400 murders. But if you look at the infrastructure, the big money earned by organised crime, the parallel economy. Yes, we have a narco-state,' Jan Struijs told BBC News at the time.

The murdered lawyer, Derk Wiersum, was shot dead in the Amsterdam suburbs by a man dressed in black who fled on foot and was thought to be no older than 20.

Wiersum was representing a 'supergrass' witness in a drugs case who had cut a deal with prosecutors to provide evidence against suspected underworld bosses.

Months later, another Dutch lawyer involved in several drug-related cases was shot across the border in Germany, although he was not seriously injured.

Hook of Holland was also the departure point for a 35kg cocaine run to Britain which was eventually uncovered when the shipment arrived in Humberside.

Lorry driver Hendrik van der Genugten was later jailed for 10 years after smuggling the drugs out of the Netherlands in 2019.
34-year-old Kyle Christiansen was charged with hate crimes

A Florida man who targeted an Asian family by vandalizing their cars with racial slurs and sending threatening messages online was charged with hate crimes and sentenced Tuesday to a year in jail.

In July 2020, 34-year-old Kyle Christiansen terrorized a New Smyrna Beach family by sending threatening Facebook messages under a profile with a squirrel photo and the name 'Pine Cone'.

Christiansen sent a message July 24, 2020, with Asian slurs targeting the wife saying she and her husband should die from rat poisoning, a charging affidavit said.

The Facebook messages also used slurs in referring to people of Vietnamese descent, the Daytona Beach News-Journal reported.

The couple are both dentists and according to the victim's wife, Christiansen was a patient of hers and had been to her office to have his teeth cleaned the day before she received the Facebook message from 'Pine Cone,' the affidavit says. The account was later linked to Christiansen.

She said Christiansen was a new patient and was probably surprised she was Asian; based on her last name; he may have been expecting a white doctor, she said.

'He kept on saying this office isn't what it seems and he would never expand on that and so that was that,' she said.

Hopclear.com reported that Christiansen became extremely rude and made her dental assistant cry, but the woman chalked up his behavior to nerves over the dental treatment.

On July 29, 2020, racist Asian slurs reading 'Die G**k Rat' and 'G**k R***rd Rat' were painted on the side of a black pickup truck belonging to a male family member at their home in Venetian Bay

'Die G**k Rat' was scrawled on the victim's sister-in-law's gray Honda sedan parked outside his house

On July 29, 2020, racist Asian slurs reading 'Die G**k Rat' and 'G**k R***rd Rat' were painted on the side of a black pickup truck belonging to a family member at their home in Venetian Bay. On a gray Honda sedan parked at the house, according to a police report.

In addition, nails were placed on the driveway, the News-Journal reported.

In security video, authorities saw a car registered to Christiansen's family driving by the family's home around the time the vandalism occurred, hopclear.com reported.

In May and September of that year, messages sent from 'Pine Cone' to the Bureau of Immigration in the Philippines warned of a plan to stab the first Filipino he saw because of the way his brother was treated during a visit to the Philippines, the affidavit said.

The disturbing incident reflects a rise in anti-Asian hate crimes. According to a recent study by the Center for Study of Hate and Extremism, hate crimes reported against Asians are up a 164 percent in 16 of the country's biggest cities compared to the same time last year.

Researchers with the study analyzed data taken by the nation's largest police jurisdictions, and found 95 anti-Asian assaults or incidents were reported in the first quarter of 2021.

The same time last year, there were only 36 incidents reported to authorities.

At Tuesday's sentencing, the victims shared their reactions to the Facebook messages and the woman said she called her husband 'frantically' and he was 'really shaken up,' the News-Journal reported.

She also told the court that her office has prepared emergency drills in case the person returned to the office.

'We shouldn't have to live with that,' she said. 'We were in fear of our lives. We should just be treating our patients. But we had to make sure that the door was locked and each patient that came to the door had to be confirmed that it was a patient that was scheduled for an appointment.'

'It just made us terrified and at that time I was six months, almost seven months, pregnant. It made me more helpless,' she added.

Her husband testified that the family lived in fear until the trial and installed security cameras in their home.

'I thought the worst - that someone was trying to kill us,' he testified. 'It really worried me for my family's safety.'

He added that they are still worried despite the sentencing.

'What happens when he is out?' he said. 'What's going to stop him from going further? That is my biggest fear.'

Christiansen was convicted of two counts of criminal mischief with hate crime enhancements, second-degree felonies that are punishable by up to 15 years in prison each. But because of his clean criminal record and low score on the state sentencing guidelines, he faces only a year in jail and three years of house arrest.

The house arrest will be followed by seven years probation.

'You have effectively terrorized a family is what you did,' Circuit Judge Dennis Craig told Christiansen during sentencing Tuesday. 'Probably without even taking that into consideration, you just needed to act out on your hatred and on your prejudice.'

According to court records, Christiansen suffered from mental heath issues.

His father sent a letter to the judge from a psychologist who treated Christiansen from 2006-2010 who wrote that Christiansen had been under psychiatric treatment since age 5 for various disorders, including psychotic disorder, and had been prescribed at least 32 different medicines. According to his parents, none helped and he stopped taking them.

But the judge said Christiansen's crimes were guided by prejudice.

'I think it's evident from the facts it's the prejudice why you took these actions, not the mental health issue,' Craig told the 34-year-old. 'As far as the mental health issue goes, I don't have anything to indicate that the mental health issues that you have would be the cause of such hate and acting out on such hate on people that you don't even know.'

Christiansen's defense attorney, Assistant Public Defender Brian Hyer, who asked the judge to sentence him to probation, asked Christiansen during sentencing if he was sorry, to which Christiansen replied 'yes.'

Christiansen said he was not sure if his mental health issues contributed to him acting inappropriately sometimes and said he feels fine without medicine and 'just wants to move on.'

Being jailed was a 'frightening experience' and that Christiansen said he 'definitely' did not want to see the inside of a jail again.

'I swear. I promise. I will never do anything like that ever again. I promise,' he told the judge.
Evan Seyfried, 40, (pictured above) took his own life after he was allegedly harassed, sabotaged, stalked and threatened by his Kroger colleagues

The family of a Kroger employee is suing the grocery store chain for wrongful death after they claim he took his own life because he was targeted in a six-month harassment campaign by co-workers that started when he wore a face mask to work because he was worried about COVID-19.

Evan Seyfried, 40, who worked at a Kroger location in Milford, Ohio for nineteen years as the dairy department manager, committed suicide on March 9 after his colleagues sabotaged his work, stalked him and threatened to frame him for possession of child pornography, according to the 29-page lawsuit filed Monday by Freking Myers & Reul LLC.

Austin LiPuma, the Seyfried family's attorney, said the harassment campaign began in October 2020 after a 'politically charged chasm between Evan and his superiors sparked disconcerting hazing and bullying'.

LiPuma alleges that Seyried's manager treated him poorly because of his concerns regarding the coronavirus pandemic and other political ideologies. According to the lawsuit, Seyfried's work life became a 'living hell.' His supervisor, named in the suit as Shannon Frazee, reportedly harassed him for wearing a face mask and following COVID-19 protocols that were consistent with Kroger policy. She is also accused of encouraging other employees to ridicule him.

'Evan was consistently mocked and harassed for taking COVID-19 seriously, and co-workers referred to him as "antifa,''' LiPuma said in a press release.

In addition to 'hazing, taunting, and bullying' Seyfried, Frazee is accused of making 'unwanted sexual advances' towards him, despite being his supervisor. The suit states that Seyfried reported sexual harassment of multiple occasions with 'zero recourse'.

The suit also claims that Frazee's harassment evolved into workplace sabotage. She allegedly would leave 'holes' in the dairy department schedule, leaving Seyfried with extra work.

Other colleagues were accused of restocking the shelves in his department with expired products, resulting in Seyfried being written up and audited per company policy.

The alleged harassment began six months before Seyfried (pictured) killed himself. Seyfried reportedly faced 'hazing, taunting, and bullying,' among other things

Now, Seyfried's family is suing Kroger for monetary damages and seeking a jury trial on multiple claims including wrongful death, conspiracy, retaliation and sexual harassment. The Milford store where Seyfried worked is pictured above

The suit alleges that his co-workers also began following him home and would remain 'parked on the street for unusually long periods of time.'

Another supervisor, named in the lawsuit as Joseph Pigg, is also accused of telling Seyfried that 'he could tap into Evan's computer and track [him] and his internet usage at all times.'

Seyfried was not the only Kroger employee who reported the alleged misconduct. One of his colleagues reportedly called the company's ethics helpline reporting that they were both being bullied in the workplace.

Seyfried also submitted multiple complaints to the store's union representative, but no action was taken, according to the lawsuit.

According to the lawsuit, Seyfried reported the alleged misconduct several times, but no action was taken. Above is an exert from the complaint showcasing a note Seyfried wrote to officials that outlined incidents of sexual harassment in the workplace

In response to filing formal complaints, Seyfried reportedly received threatening text messages from unknown numbers saying things like: 'Are you going to try and get us?' and 'Are you going to sue the company?'

The suit also alleges that the individual who was texting him also sent Seyfried messages 'containing explicit child pornography.'

These behaviors reportedly continued through March 2021.

'Evan was distraught,' the lawsuit states. 'Between the audit, the stalkers, the threatening text messages and child pornography, and the general toxic workplace environment, Evan felt unsafe.'

His parents, Ken (left) and Linda (right) say Seyfried (middle) killed himself after having a 'transient episodic break' resulting from his workplace conditions. They say he had 'no prior history of severe mental health concerns'

Seyfried moved in with his parents on March 4, 2021, quit his job on March 6, and experienced his 'first transient episodic break' on March 8.

According to the complaint, Seyfried throw away all of his possessions, was found wandering the streets, and verbally expressed fear that his former supervisors were going to 'get him' and that 'things would get ugly.'

Seyfried's father Ken says those were the last words his son spoke to him before he found his body early in the morning of March 9.

The family asserts that Seyfried had 'no prior history of severe mental health concerns.'

Now, the Seyfried family is suing for monetary damages and seeking a jury trial on numerous claims against Kroger and specific Kroger managers, including:

Wrongful death Vicarious liability, respondeat superior, ostensible agency, and agency Conspiracy Intentional infliction of emotional distress Negligent infliction of emotional distress Invasion of privacy False light Employer intentional tort Negligent hiring, supervision, and retention Negligent failure to provide Sexual harassment Retaliation Constructive discharge Reckless willful, and wanton conduct Intentional spoliation

Kroger did not immediately respond to DailyMail.com's request for comment on Thursday.

Social media users have rallied together to show their support for Seyfried's family. The group 'Justice for Evan' has organized a protest outside of the Milford Kroger store on July 24

Meanwhile, a Facebook group titled 'Justice For Evan' has been created in an effort to unite those who wish to show their support for the Seyfried family.

The group is holding a 'Protest Kroger' rally outside of the grocery chain's Milford store on Saturday, July 24 at 1:30 pm.

Event organizer and close family friend Jana Murphy told DailyMail.com the purpose of the rally is to ensure that no other Kroger employees suffer 'horrible abuse' in the workplace.

'People are loyal to Kroger. If they knew this happened they could choose not to spend their money there,' she explained.

'Evan didn't go to work preaching his social beliefs. He followed CDC guidelines,' Murphy continued. 'This is not a story about politics. This is a human story about a good person who is not here anymore.'

Murphy says the family wants to bring awareness about Seyfield's death and alleged working conditions to as many people as possible.

'We want people to say "Don't shop at Kroger until there is justice for Evan,"' she explained. Adding that she wants the grocery chain to acknowledge what happened and take responsibility for their alleged role in it.

Murphy says that everyone is welcome to attend the protest on July 24.

Call the toll-free 24-hour hotline of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-900-273-8255); TTY: 1-900-799-4TTY (4889).

Read the complaint in its entirety, below:
From January to May, 711,784 migrants were encountered by Customs and Border Protection at the southern border  five times the amount during the same period in 2020  and the Biden administration is on track to encounter 1 million by the end of July.

CBP's latest data, released in June, show that there were 180,034 encounters with illegal crossers in May, the highest of any month in the last 20 years. The spike in migration under President Joe Biden's administration continues to grow with no signs of it coming to a stop any time soon.

The numbers for June have not yet been updated on CBP's webpage, but pictures emerge at least weekly of groups of hundreds of migrants turning themselves over to U.S. immigration authorities at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Border officials are expected to reveal that they encountered 188,000 illegal immigrants in June, a knowledgeable source revealed, according to the Washington Examiner.

If the current apprehension trajectory continues, CBP will have encountered more than 1 million illegal immigrants at the southern border by late July  when Biden reaches his six month mark in office.

The number of crossers already reported by CBP since the start of 2021 surpasses the population of several large U.S. cities, like Boston and Nashville. It is also more people than the total people living in the least populated U.S. states of Wyoming and Vermont.

It is still not immediately clear where exactly these asylum seekers and illegal crossers are being sent after they are transferred out of federal immigration agencies' custody.

There also appears to be no available statistics on how many immigrants who are encountered and taken into custody are sent back to Mexico, or their origin countries, compared to those who are put in an alternatives to detention program or otherwise released into the U.S.

Projections reveal at least 1 million illegal immigrants will have been encounter by Customs and Border Protection by the end of July. Numbers for June have not yet been released, but a knowledgable source revealed CBP will show they encountered 188,000 illegal immigrants last month

Many that were being sent to Laredo, Texas over the last few months  but the Department of Homeland Security agreed this month to temporarily halt sending border crossers to the poor community as it struggles with resources and rising COVID-19 cases.

Laredo is designated as medically underserved.

'DHS has agreed to suspend lateral transfers of immigrants from the Valley to avoid overburdening (non-governmental organizations) and local medical facilities in Laredo,' Henry Cuellar, a Democrat whose hometown is Laredo, said in a statement Monday.

Other alternatives to detention (ATD) include parole-like programs, where illegal crossers are released and minors are sent to guardians in the U.S. and are required to either have check-ins at Immigration and Custom Enforcement offices, engage in home visits or be monitored by telephone or GPS ankle bracelets.

Republicans call this system 'catch and release' and are highly critical of its implementation.

In Biden's first full month as president, the encounters jumped more than 22,000 in one month from 78,442 in January 2021 to 101,117 in February.

By March, Biden was experiencing a full blown crisis when CBP saw a record number of encounters in recent history with 173,337 encounters.

At that point, the administration put Vice President Kamala Harris in charge of the humanitarian crisis, asserting shortly after that her role is only to address 'root causes' as she became the immediate target for right-wing criticism after she spent her first three months in the positions avoiding visiting the border.

From January to May, CBP encountered 711,784 migrants at the southern border, already revealed numbers show. Here asylum-seekers wait in line to be processed after crossing the Rio Grande River on July 8, 2021 into Roma, Texas

Migrant families stand on the Rio Grande River bank on July 9, 2021 as they wait for Border Patrol agents to escort them to a processing center after they illegally crossed from Mexico into Roma, Texas

In 2020, Trump experienced some of the lowest crossing numbers in modern history - partly fueled by the coronavirus pandemic and his earlier zero-tolerance policies discouraging crossers.

The former president, however, credits these numbers to his border wall, which has since stopped being constructed since Biden took office and issued executive orders ending the project.

In 2019, Trump's highest spike hit in May 2019 when there were 144,116 encounters.

Trump has continuously blasted Biden for halting construction of his border wall immediately after being inaugurated. During a CPAC speech on Sunday in Dallas, Texas, the former president attacked Biden for 'bringing the country to the brink of ruin' with the border crisis.

'The Biden administration was handed the most secure border in history from President Trump, and has since systematically given away our Country's sovereignty to the drug cartels and open borders' radicals,' Trump's spokesperson Liz Harrington told DailyMail.com on Thursday.

'Instead of protecting our border,' she continued, 'Biden is using our Military for a massive resettlement operation of illegal aliens, that flouts our laws and the Constitution, and endangers all Americans.'

'We will lose our Country if this is not stopped,' Harrington asserted.

The former president visited the border last month with Texas Republican Governor Greg Abbott where he made remarks in front of an unfinished portion of the wall near McAllen, which has allowed a huge gap where migrants can more easily cross the border from Mexico to the U.S.

Harris beat Trump to the border by five days after she finally gave into pressure to survey the crisis for herself.

She was still blasted, however, for now visiting ground zero of the border crisis in the Rio Grande Valley, and instead going several hundred miles away to El Paso, where there are substantially less encounters with migrants.

Biden is looking into ways to address the crisis after two separate polls last month showed only one-third of American adults approve of Biden and Harris handling of the southern border.

One idea is getting more funding for technology at CBP and other border agencies to allow them to more easily surveil the border and stop these illegal crossings from happening in the first place.

The House Appropriations Committee advanced a bill on Tuesday that would allocate $475 million in DHS funding toward ICE and ATD for technologies for surveilling immigrants, which was well above what the Biden administration requested in its 2022 budget proposal.

A number of immigrants advocates have said these programs cause physical and emotional harm in arguing against their use.

More money comes as some progressives, like Representative Rashida Tlaib, have actually called for the defunding of the entire DHS  in particular targeting ICE and CBP.

Republicans, however, claim more needs to be done to address the crisis, including resuming construction of the border wall and implementing more hard-line policies that prevent migration rather than encourage it.

'The exponential rise in illegal crossings at the border speaks to a crisis of leadership in Washington,' North Carolina Representative Madison Cawthorn told DailyMail.com. 'The American people have made it abundantly clear that a secure southern border is of the utmost importance. However, the pleas of our southern states have fallen on deaf ears in the White House.'

'A nation without borders is a nation destined to fall, and every day that the Biden Administration fails to act, is another day that they have failed the American people,' he added.

Cawthorn was one of the several GOP lawmakers who joined Trump during his trip to McAllen last month.
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A long lost village on rugged hilltops in the heart of Snowdonia - which have been compared to Peru's Machu Picchu - could be set to receive World Heritage Site status.

The historic slate mines and stone houses were built for workers cutting slate out of the rugged hills and valleys in north western Wales.

More than 17,000 men worked in the Snowdonia mines at the turn of the 20th century but the industry fell into decline following industrial disputes and the breakout of war.

Now all that remains of the once-thriving industrial village are shells of workers' cottages, iron tram lines, mills and engine houses which litter the hillsides around Blaenau Ffestiniog.

Images of the ruined buildings partially collapsed over time have been compared to the infamous Incan citadel in Peru.

A long lost village on rugged hilltops in the heart of Snowdonia - which have been compared to Peru's Machu Picchu - could be set to receive World Heritage Site status after Gwynedd Council chiefs launched a bid to get the site recognised

Historic slate mines and stone houses were built for workers cutting slate out of the rugged hills and valleys in north Wales

Thousands of men worked in the mines at the turn of the 20th century but the industry fell into decline and is now abandoned

All that remains of the village are shells of workers' cottages, iron tram lines, mills and engine houses which litter the hillsides

Photographer Ian Lilley, 45, has been documenting the area around Blaenau Ffestiniog, Gwynedd, for almost 20 years.

Ian, of Warwick, said: 'I've been to all of the national parks in the UK and would say that Snowdonia is the best.

'Over time I noticed so much more interesting sights off the main paths, such as old mining buildings and quarries.

'It's great to see some of the mills, engine houses and drum houses going back to Victorian times are still standing.

'When I saw Barics Mawr at Rhiwbach Quarry, it instantly reminded me of Machu Picchu. It's a real gem of Blaenau Ffestiniog.'

Gwynedd Council chiefs have submitted a bid for the slate mines to join Machu Picchu as an UNESCO World Heritage Site and a decision will be made later this month.

Photographer Ian Lilley has been documenting the area around Blaenau Ffestiniog (pictured), Gwynedd, for almost 20 years

Council chiefs submitted a bid for the mines to be awarded the special status and a decision will be made later this month

Images of the ruined buildings partially collapsed over time have been compared to the infamous Incan citadel in Peru

The council says its hope with the UNESCO world heritage site bid for the slate mines is to 'celebrate our history, but also to use the opportunity to regenerate communities through heritage and create exciting new opportunities for businesses'

Machu Picchu, which dates back to the 15th century, was given World Heritage status in 1983 meaning it has cultural, historical, or scientific value 'considered to be of outstanding value to humanity'.

Other sites on the list include the Taj Mahal, Stonehenge, the Great Wall of China and the Acropolis.

The bid from Gwynedd Council includes 20 slate quarries, plus three granite mines and a zinc operation surrounding the town of Blaenau Ffestiniog.

Ian said the mines were important as they bring a sense of history to the area.

He said: 'I wanted to visit them to get a feeling of how hard a life it would have been working as a miner.

'When I saw some of the quarry remains, and the ruins of barracks they would have stayed in, I certainly got a sense that life would have been tough, particularly in winter.

After war and industrial disputes led them to fall into disrepair, the lost village now sit abandoned in heart of Snowdonia

The bid includes 20 slate quarries, plus three granite mines and a zinc operation surrounding the town of Blaenau Ffestiniog

Now all that remains of the once-thriving village are shells of cottages, iron tram lines (pictured), mills and engine houses

Gwynedd Council have described the bid as 'a very ambitious scheme' and a decision is expected later this month

'It would have been quite a trek up the mountainsides just for the miners to get to work.'

When the bid was made, Cllr Gareth Thomas, Gwynedd Council's Cabinet Member for Economic Development, said: 'Securing UNESCO World Heritage Site Status is a very ambitious scheme.

'It would mean that the area's slate landscape receives the same designation as wonders such as the Taj Mahal, the Egyptian Pyramids and the Great Wall of China.

'Our aim is to celebrate our history, but also to use the opportunity to regenerate communities through heritage and create exciting new opportunities for businesses.

'We want to do this by working with communities and businesses, and hope that the bid is an opportunity to reinforce or reconnect people with their local heritage and create high quality job opportunities locally.'
Two nonprofits in California are offering a token redeemable for one joint to those who attend a vaccination event next weekend.

The 'Joints for Jabs LBC' pop-up will take place on July 24 at Houghton Park in Long Beach, a coastal city in Los Angeles County.

From 9am to 1pm, the first 150 adults 21 and over to roll up their sleeves will be eligible to receive a free joint, or marijuana cigarette, according to event host Long Beach Forward.

The July 24 Houghton Park event in California will offer tokens good for one free joint to the first 150 adults 21 and over who get jabbed on site

What could you receive along with a COVID-19 vaccine? Municipalities across the U.S. have tried everything from drawings for millions of dollars to free childcare to encourage their populations to protect themselves from COVID-19 California: 10 people won $1.5 million each in a random drawing on June 15, and 30 others won $50,000 each in previous drawings Colorado: One resident is selected every week for a cash prize of $1 million Louisiana: $100,000 to one winner every week starting July 9, with a grand final prize of $1 million Maine: The state will purchase up to 10,000 fishing and hunting licenses for the year 2021 New York: Parents can submit their vaccinated children to win one of 50 full scholarships to any four-year public college or university in the state Source: National Governors Association Advertisement

The pop-up will be co-hosted by the Long Beach Collective Association, a cannabis trade and advocacy organization.

Young people are the event's target audience.

'Similar to trends across California, Long Beach residents ages 18 to 34 remain as a significant block of people who are unvaccinated,' the LBC says

Only 52 percent of residents 18 to 34 have been vaccinated, according to the City of Long Beach coronavirus dashboard, compared to 70 percent of those 35 to 44 and more than 99 percent of those 65 and over.

In total, more than 57 percent of Long Beach residents have been vaccinated, including 70 percent of adults.

The city has a higher average poverty rate than the county, hovering at 16.8 percent compared to 14.9 for the county.

Long Beach is the seventh-most populated city in California with more than 456,000 residents, according to worldpopulationreview.com.

Los Angeles County has seen a recent surge in coronavirus cases, largely attributed to unvaccinated people and and the Delta variant first identified in India.

Cases have jumped more than 260 percent in Los Angeles County in the past two weeks, according to a tracker compiled by the Los Angeles Times.

The current seven-day average for new cases stands at 1,077.

The LBC also hopes to lower vaccination inequity rates by ZIP code.

'Cannabis is part of our Long Beach culture and to safely share a joint without contributing to the spread of COVID-19, we must all do our part to get vaccinated,' the nonprofit says.

The least vaccinated zip code is 90810, where only 51 percent of residents are vaccinated compared to 90815 with 70 percent.
Families could be hit with punitive new road taxes to offset a 34billion black hole caused by the loss of fuel duty when petrol and diesel are phased out in favour of electric vehicles.

Levies on cars and planes are likely to be introduced as part of the Government's delayed Transport Decarbonisation Plan.

A ban on selling HGVs by 2040, cheaper public transport and more electric vehicle charging points are also under consideration.

Documents published by the Department for Transport show how ministers plan to shift to more green-friendly forms of travel, including helping drivers switch from petrol and diesel cars to electric ones.

Such vehicles are currently exempt from vehicle excise duty (VED) and pay no fuel duty.

Further 'carbon pricing' for flights could be introduced while a road pricing scheme using toll booths or in-vehicle technology could offset the anticipated loss of fuel duty from electric vehicles.

But analysis by the AA suggests that such a plan could cost 765 per car per year.

Electric vehicle owners could face road duties within five years as road pricing is being considered to plug the financial gap left by Vehicle and Excise Duty

The delayed Transport Decarbonisation Plan includes several consultations aimed at cutting transport pollution to help the UK reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050. A ban on selling HGVs by 2040, cheaper public transport and more electric vehicle charging points are also under consideration

Amazon rainforest emits more CO2 than it absorbs The Amazon rainforest is emitting more carbon dioxide than it absorbs for the first time, scientists have confirmed. The emissions, caused by fires and logging, amount to a billion tonnes of carbon dioxide a year, according to a study. Lead author Professor Luciana Gatti, from the National Institute for Space Research in Brazil, said: 'Each year it's getting worse.' She blamed the change on 'deforestation and regional climate change'. Advertisement

Its president Edmund King told the Telegraph the 'pay-as-you-go' option was the most obvious way to recoup cash but warned it would be 'political suicide'.

'It's very difficult to sell something called road pricing to the public,' he said.

Mike Hawes, head of industry body The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, said the sector 'welcomes' the blueprint, but added: 'Massive investment, not least in infrastructure, is necessary and must be delivered at an accelerated pace.'

The plan promises to reconsider carbon prices to 'help accelerate' the transition to green fuels, which could see air fares rise.

Unveiling the strategy in the Commons yesterday, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said his 'greenprint' was 'a comprehensive yet urgent strategy to end transport's contribution to climate change within the next three decades'.

In November, the Prime Minister brought forward the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans from 2040 to 2030.

Mr Shapps offered assurances yesterday that the Government is not 'anti-car', nor wanting to 'demonise' drivers.

He told MPs the ambition is to ensure cars 'can run without damaging people's health and the environment' as he unveiled new reforms.

In November last year, Prime Minister Boris Johnson brought forward the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans from 2040 to 2030. The ban will also apply to new hybrid cars and vans from 2035.

The delayed Transport Decarbonisation Plan (TDP) also includes several consultations aimed at cutting transport pollution to help the UK reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The plan promises to reconsider carbon prices to 'help accelerate' the transition to green fuels

One measure includes banning the sale of diesel lorries in the UK from 2040.

Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Shapps also said: 'We are not against the car.

'We want people to have access to cars and indeed in rural areas it is often the only way that people have got to get around, despite obviously wanting to improve bus services and the rest of it.'

He added: 'We intend to carry on investment but to make sure that the cars can run without damaging people's health and the environment, and that makes sense.'

Mr Shapps was responding to a comment from Conservative former minister Theresa Villiers (Chipping Barnet), who asked: 'Will the Secretary of State agree with me that to tackle climate change we need to decarbonise cars, vans and taxis and not demonise cars, vans and taxis?'

For Labour, shadow transport secretary Jim McMahon said: 'With transport now the largest contributor to UK emissions, this should have been the chance for ministers to really set out that ambitious plan, (which) could really lead the way ahead of Cop26.

'Not warm words or reannouncements, but a real plan supporting aviation and maritime, rail and freight, local public transport alongside active travel.'

He pointed to the absence of a van scrappage scheme, a 'woeful lack' of electrical vehicle charging points, a 'reduction of thousands' of bus routes, while adding that at the same time ticket prices 'have rocketed'.

Mr McMahon added: 'This climate emergency requires urgent action, actually many years ago, yet after a decade in government I'm afraid they've been found wanting.

'We were promised an ambitious plan to lead the world ahead of Cop26, if that was a test, then I'm afraid the Government has failed.'
Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer is reveling in his current status as the senior liberal all the court and resisting pressure to retire  saying he has not decided when he will step down.

Asked while summering in New Hampshire whether he has decided when to step down, Breyer responded with a simple 'No,' CNN reported.

When he named the factors that would guide his decision, he did not mention anything having to do with the ideological makeup of the court, with a series of decisions falling along rigid lines with a 6-3 conservative majority.

Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer, 82, said he has not decided when to step down, after being publicly pressured to announce his retirement at the end of the court's term

'Primarily, of course, health," Breyer said, when asked about what would inform his decision to step down. 'Second, the court,' he said.

He said he has been enjoying the prerogatives as a senior justice. The 27-year vet gets to speak first after Chief Justice John Roberts when the justices meet privately in conference. It 'has made a difference to me,' he said.

Some liberal commentators were pushing Breyer to step down when the court issued its final opinions in June, fearful of a replay of what happened with the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

Breyer says he enjoys his seniority on the court, which currently has a 6-3 conservative majority

President Donald Trump nominated Judge Amy Coney Barrett just weeks before the November 2020 elections. The Senate confirmed her before Trump left office

Liberals are still steaming at the way Republicans in the Senate were able to block former President Barack Obama's high court nominee, Merrick Garland. He now serves as President Biden's Attorney General

Ginsburg resisted similar pleas, then died at 87, then died in September. President Donald Trump quickly nominated a replacement, and then-Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell got the Senate to confirm Justice Amy Coney Barrett weeks before President Joe Biden was elected and Trump left office. Justice Barrett is 49.

McConnell had already infuriated liberals by failing to hold a hearing on former President Barack Obama's nominee for the high court, Merrick Garland, after the death of Justice Antonin Scalia.

This year the liberal group Demand Justice organized a billboard truck to circled the Supreme Court with the sign 'Breyer, retire,' and some lawmakers called for him to do so. Biden has pledged to nominate a black woman for the Supreme Court should a vacancy occur.

Control of the 50-50 Senate is up for grabs in 2022, and liberals fear if Republicans gain control Biden will be unable to get a justice confirmed in the second half of his term. Control could also flip should a death or vacancy in the Senate occur before then.
'There's no evidence of a sex crime in the charged crime (the murder case) itself,' he said. 'Proof of the LA charges can't act as a substitute ... for the SLO case'

He suggested that prosecutors were unfairly attempting to strengthen their case against Flores by including the separate allegations

San Luis Obispo Superior Court Judge Craig van Rooyen denied the motion, saying there is insufficient evidence that Smart was raped

A judge denied prosecutors' bid to file rape charges against the man accused of killing California college student Kristin Smart because there is insufficient evidence that he sexually assaulted her.

San Luis Obispo County prosecutors on Wednesday filed a motion asking for Paul Flores to be charged with rape in connection with two assaults he allegedly committed between 2013 and 2017 in Los Angeles - years after Smart disappeared in 1996.

The prosecutors wanted the charges to be added to the Smart case in which Flores is charged with murder in the commission of a rape or attempted rape.

San Luis Obispo Superior Court Judge Craig van Rooyen denied the motion, saying there is insufficient evidence that Smart was raped.

The judge said that the court needed to consider whether prosecutors were attempting to add charges from a weak case to a stronger case in an attempt to prove the weaker case.

'There's no evidence of a sex crime in the charged crime (the murder case) itself,' he said. 'Proof of the LA charges can't act as a substitute ... for the SLO case.'

Los Angeles Police Capt Jonathan Tippett confirmed that prosecutors were digging into two sexual assault cases that took place in the San Pedro area where Flores lived.

Paul Flores, 44, is pictured during his arrest for Kristin Smart's murder on April 13

Investigators search Flores' fathers house in February of 2020 and again in March 2021

Smart was officially declared dead in 2002 but her body has never been found

Timeline of the Kristin Smart case May, 1996: Kristin Smart disappears on the college campus of California Polytechnic State University after attending a birthday party for a friend November, 1996: Smart's family files a $20million wrongful death lawsuit against Flores, who was one of the last people to have seen her alive May, 2002: Smart is declared dead after a years-long search for her body yields no leads January, 2020: Smart's mother is contacted by the FBI and told further developments might come in the case February, 2020: the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff issued new search warrants in the case April, 2021: Flores is arrested and charged with Smart's murder Advertisement

The details of those alleged assaults are unknown, but they would have been revealed if the judge allowed the San Luis Obispo County prosecution's amendments.

After denying the motion, van Rooyen then re-scheduled a preliminary hearing in Smart's murder case for August 2, according to the San Luis Obispo Tribune.

In April, Flores was arrested and charged for Smart's murder. He had long been the top suspect in the case after being the last person to see her alive after a party during their freshman year at

Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo.

Prosecutors are hoping to utilize case law in which rape cases were attached to crimes in a different county to connect Flores to some of his alleged rapes.

On Monday, a judge said that several motions are set to be reviewed this week in preparation for the 12-day preliminary hearing scheduled on July 20 where the prosecution will reveal what they think happened to Smart after finding evidence on Flores' fathers property.

Ruben Flores, 80, has been charged with accessory after the fact with accusations of helping his son conceal Smart's body.

The younger Flores has been accused of sexual assault in three separate cases, including one in which his DNA matched a rape kit sample, in the years after the college student vanished.

In a Redondo Beach case, police were called to a hospital in January 2007 after a woman underwent a rape kit examination because she believed she had been assaulted.

Investigators had found 'biological evidence' that Smart's body had been buried at the home but had recently been moved

Ruben Flores has pleaded not guilty to a charge of accessory after the murder for hiding Smart's body

The woman told police she had been drinking at a bar with friends earlier that night but later woke up naked in a man's bed with no memory of what had happened.

The woman, who told police she believed she may have been drugged, said she left the man's home still feeling intoxicated.

The rape kit determined she had sex but there were no 'obvious indication of force or assaultive behavior'.

It also did not show any traces of a date rape drug.

A DNA sample collected as part of the examination was entered into a police database and four years later matched with Flores.

Redondo Beach Police launched a rape investigation and interviewed Flores, who told them he had no 'particular recollection' of the woman.

'He stated it was possible he had sex with her since he has had sex with many girls,' a police memo related to the case showed.

Smart's family have since filed a lawsuit in San Luis Obispo County Superior Court claiming her body was buried in Ruben's yard but he moved it 'under the cover of darkness'

A judge will review a number of motions will be reviewed this week ahead of a 12-day preliminary hearing which was originally scheduled for July 20 but has since been moved to Aug. 2

The alleged victim was unable to identify Flores from a police line up.

Prosecutors ultimately decided they couldn't prove Flores raped the woman and did not bring charges against him.

'The DNA hit only proves that there was some type of sexual contact but not what the nature of that contact was,' Los Angeles County deputy district attorney Christi Frey wrote in a memo at the time.

Separate from the sex assault allegations, Flores has at least five convictions for drunk driving in Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo.

He also has a conviction for being drunk in public.

Flores was arrested back in 1998 in Huntington Beach for assault with a deadly weapon other than a firearm but was not prosecuted due to lack of evidence.

Flores has previously invoked his Fifth Amendment right to not answer questions before a grand jury and in a deposition for a lawsuit that was brought against him in relation to the investigation

In one of his probation reports that was unintentionally made public from a prior conviction, he was once described by a deputy district attorney as a 'serial rapist' based on allegations from dozens of women.

The report did not include specifics on those alleged assaults or if they had all been reported and investigated by police.

When Flores was arrested in April in Smart's murder, San Luis Obispo County District Attorney Dan Dow revealed for the first time that investigators believed he killed the young woman during an attempted rape.

Dow said prosecutors intended to use Flores' history of alleged sex attacks in the murder case.

He specifically mentioned the two cases in Los Angeles.

Prosecutors may use the alleged assaults to try and prove Flores has a history of predatory behavior but much of the details surrounding Smart's case has been closely guarded by authorities throughout the investigation.
The FBI tried to flip a high-ranking Saudi official suspected of assisting 9/11 hijackers by confronting him with child porn on his computer - despite telling the public the Saudi government wasn't involved in the terrorist attacks, a new report claims.

In a deposition last month, obtained by Yahoo News, Mussaed al-Jarrah said FBI agents approached and questioned him at least three times as part of its probe into the Saudi Arabian government's possible involvement.

Al-Jarrah worked in the Ministry of Islamic Affairs at the Saudi Embassy in Washington, DC, in the late 1990s and early 2000s and is suspected of providing money, lodging and other help to two of the hijackers when they landed on US soil.

His claims were made under oath during closed-door questioning on June 17 and 18 as part of a lawsuit brought by the families of 9/11 victims accusing the Saudi government of being complicit in the attacks.

The claims raise new questions about the FBI's investigation, as the US has long insisted to the public that there is no evidence the Saudi government was involved in the murders of 2,977 people on September 11, 2001.

The FBI tried to flip a high-ranking Saudi official Mussaed al-Jarrah (pictured) suspected of assisting 9/11 hijackers by confronting him with child porn on his computer

In a deposition last month, al-Jarrah said FBI agents approached and questioned him at least three times as part of its probe into the Saudi Arabian government's possible involvement in the terrorist attacks. Pictured the Twin Towers after they were hit by two hijacked planes

In the video-taped deposition, al-Jarrah testified that he met with FBI agents on multiple occasions in the three years after the attacks in an apparent attempt to get him to flip and cooperate in the Saudi probe.

On one occasion, agents took him out to dinner at a restaurant in Washington, he said in the 600-page deposition.

He said the last time he spoke to the agents was some time in 2004 when they threatened him with the nude images of children taken from his home computer.

The ex-official claimed he dismissed the threat and didn't speak with anyone from the bureau again.

'I told him: "If you are here to threaten me with the pictures, just go ahead, go to the Embassy,"' he testified from his home in Morocco.

'Then I got in my car and drove off.'

Al-Jarrah claimed under oath that he couldn't remember much about his conversations with the FBI agents.

He also claimed not to recall whether he was questioned about the Saudi government's involvement in the attacks or his conversations with two Saudi officials suspected of also helping the hijackers.

Al-Jarrah is suspected of providing money, lodging and help to two of the hijackers Khalid al-Mihdhar (left) and Nawaf al-Hazmi (right)

Al-Mihdhar and al-Hazmi were two of the five terrorists who hijacked and crashed American Airlines Flight 77 into the Pentagon (seen above)

He responded 'I don't remember' 103 times under questioning.

However al-Jarrah said he was always 'cooperative' with the FBI agents because he had 'nothing to hide.'

He insisted he did not have any involvement in the terrorist attacks, testifying that he had no knowledge of the two hijackers Khalid al-Mihdhar and Nawaf al-Hazmi prior to September 11.

When asked if he had ever 'heard the names' of the hijackers before the attack, he responded: 'No, not at all.'

Al-Jarrah allegedly worked with two other Saudi government employees to help al-Mihdhar and al-Hazmi after they arrived into the US to carry out the attacks.

Al-Mihdhar and al-Hazmi flew into California in January 2000 after attending an Al-Qaeda planning summit.

Once in the US, al-Jarrah is accused of directing Saudi official Fahad al-Thumairy and suspected Saudi intelligence agent Omar al-Bayoumi of setting the hijackers up with a place to stay and opening a bank account for them.

Al-Jarrah is accused of directing Saudi official Fahad al-Thumairy (left) and suspected Saudi intelligence agent Omar al-Bayoumi (right) of setting the two hijackers up with a place to stay and opening a bank account for them

Al-Mihdhar and al-Hazmi were two of the five terrorists who hijacked and crashed American Airlines Flight 77 into the Pentagon, killing all 64 on board and 125 people inside the government building.

Al-Bayoumi and al-Thumairy were also questioned in recent weeks as part of the lawsuit.

Al-Jarrah was first named in connection to the terrorist attacks last year when FBI officials failed to redact his name in one place in court papers for the suit of the victims' families.

His damning testimony last month marks the first time the Saudi official has admitted to dealing with the FBI in the aftermath of 9/11.

At the time of the alleged questioning, the official line from the US government was that there was no evidence of the Saudi government being involved in the attacks.

The 9/11 commission report, released in 2004 and published in a book (above), said there was no evidence the Saudi government or senior Saudi officials had funded Al-Qaeda

The 9/11 commission report, released in 2004, detailed potential ties between Saudi officials and the attacks but said it found no evidence the Saudi government or senior Saudi officials had funded Al-Qaeda or were knowingly supporting the attacks.

The Saudi government has also long denied any connection to the attacks.

Following the commission, the FBI carried out its own investigation Operation Encore which went on until 2016.

One former agent Stephen Moore said in a 2017 declaration that Saudi Arabian diplomatic and intelligence personnel had knowingly given support to two of the hijackers.

The families of the victims are now seeking access to classified evidence from the probe as they seek to prove the Saudi government's involvement.
Police in New York City are hunting for a pair of burglars accused of ransacking 10 restaurants in Manhattan over a three-month period and getting away with more than $15,000 in cash and loot.

According to the NYPD, the brazen spree lasted from March to June, and targeted businesses in Chinatown and the East Village.

In each case, one of the crooks would burst through the front door after dark, and steal cash, electronic equipment, or both.

The NYPD is looking for these two men between 40 and 60 in connection with a burglary spree targeting 10 Manhattan restaurants

This map shows the dates and locations of the 10 restaurant burglaries that have been attributed to the two suspects

Meanwhile, the other suspect would remain outside, acting as a lookout, reported amNY.com.

On Tuesday, police released surveillance video showing both suspects. It was recorded during the most recent burglary on June 24 at Sammy's Halal on First Avenue in the East Village. During that heist, the thieves got away with $1,400then fled.

According to the NYPD, the first documented incident in the crime spree was just before midnight on March 7, when the brazen bandits ransacked Fong On eatery on Division Street in Chinatown, lifting $600 from the cash register.

Over the next two nights, the duo burglarized Tio Pio on East 14th Street and Ramen Setgagya on St Mark's Place, with the back-to-back heists netting them nearly $4,000 in cash and electronics.

The first documented incident was March 7, when the bandits broke into Fong On in Chinatown and removed $600 from the cash register

Just before 4am on March 8, the thieves burglarized the Tio Pio eatery at 250 East 14th Street in the East Village, stealing $450 in cash

Less than 24 hours after the Tio Pio heist, the crooks broke into Ramen Setagaya on St Mark's Place and got away with $3,450

The next crime in the series was March 31, when the bandits broke into Hunan Bistro on 3rd Avenue, lifting $2,700 in cash and gadgets.

After a two-week hiatus, the pair of purloiners resumed their rampage, hitting in a span of seven nights La Mia Pizza and Greenwich Market Place, both on 4th Avenue, followed by GIA on Bowery, Pinky's on East 3rd Street and the Village Cafe and Grill on East 4th Street.

The rapacious rogues have been dormant since the June 24 burglary targeting Sammy's Halal.

On May 31, the same perps hit Hunan Bistro at 96 3rd Avenue, stealing $2,700 in cash and electronics

After a two-week hiatus, on June 13, the greedy duo burst into La Mia Pizza on 4th Avenue and removed $750

Just hours later, the Greenwich Marketplace next door to La Mia Pizza was stripped of $700

On June 18, GIA at 334 Bowery was broken into and stripped of $750 worth of items, including an iPad and a tool kit

On June 19, the Village Cafe and Grill on East 4th Street fell victim to the bandits, who stole $500 from the cash register

The last documented incident in the crime spree took place on June 24, when the thieves hit Sammy's Halal on First Avenue in the East Village and got away with $1,400

Investigators have described the suspects as men between 40 and 60 years old, both with a light complexion, between 5 feet 9 inches and 6 feet tall, and weighing about 190lbs.

The restaurant industry in Manhattan is still reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic and its accompanying restrictions, which have left many businesses struggling and forcing others to close.

In East Village alone, at least 54 eateries and bars shut their doors for good during or after the lockdown, making it the New York City neighborhood hardest hit by COVID from a business perspective.

Anyone with information regarding the thieves' whereabouts can call Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS.
The injured wife of Haiti's assassinated President Jovenel Moise has shared photos of herself in her hospital bed, saying she is still in disbelief that her husband was killed right in front of her.

Martine Moise tweeted two photos of herself in her Miami hospital bed on Thursday after she was evacuated from Haiti for further treatment following the July 7 assassination of her husband.

The 47-year-old, who had bandages covering her entire right arm, wrote alongside the photos that the pain of losing her husband of 25 years 'will never pass'.

'I still don't believe that my husband has gone like this before my eyes without saying a last word to me. This pain will never pass,' she said in a translated post.

In a follow up post written in English, Martine said: 'Thank you for the team of guardian angels who helped me through this terrible time. With your gentle touch, kindness and care, I was able to hold on.'

Martine Moise tweeted two photos of herself in her Miami hospital bed on Thursday after she was evacuated from Haiti for further treatment following the July 7 assassination of her husband

The 47-year-old, who had bandages covering her entire right arm, wrote alongside the photos that the pain of losing her husband of 25 years 'will never pass'

Martine suffered gunshot wounds to her arms and thigh in the predawn attack that took place at their private home in Port-au-Prince in Haiti on July 7.

The photos emerged after Martine released an audio statement from her hospital bed at the weekend accusing 'mercenaries' of pelting her husband with bullets.

'You have to be a notorious criminal without guts to assassinate a president like Jovenel Moise with impunity without giving him the chance to speak. You knew who the president was fighting against,' she said.

The investigation into the assassination has so far resulted in at least 23 arrests, with three suspects killed, but no clear indication yet of who ordered the killing and why. At least 20 of the suspects are former Colombian commandos.

Haitian authorities believe central figures and suspects in the investigation met in Florida and the Dominican Republic in the months before the assassination to discuss how they could rebuild the country after Moise was out of power, the New York Times reports.

The Pentagon has since admitted some of the Colombians were once trained by the US military.

Pentagon spokesman Lt. Col. Ken Hoffman confirmed Thursday a 'small number' of the suspects had participated in US military training and education programs while serving in the Colombian military.

Officials have not revealed how many ex-soldiers were trained by the US, their identities or what the training involved.

The latest suspects identified in the sweeping investigation included a former Haitian senator, a fired government official and an informant for the US government.

The head of security at Haiti's presidential palace is among the latest to be taken into custody and a Miami-based security firm is now facing questions in connection with the assassination.

Dimitri Herard, who is the head of the General Security Unit of the National Palace, was questioned at the Inspector General's office on Wednesday before being taken to a police station, his associate Carl Martin told CNN.

Martin said he is coordinating Herard's legal defense team but it is unclear what, if any, charges he is facing.

Martine suffered gunshot wounds to her arms and thigh in the predawn attack that took place at their private home in Port-au-Prince in Haiti on July 7. She said she is in disbelief her husband, President Jovenel Moise, was killed in front of her

Dimitri Herard, who is the head of the General Security Unit of the National Palace, was questioned at the Inspector General's office on Wednesday. It iss unclear what, if any, charges he is facing

Four high-ranking members of the president's security detail are being held in isolation, according to police. It was not clear if Herard was one of them.

The Haitian National Police announced the arrest of two more people in connection with the assassination: Gilbert Dragon, a former police superintendent, and Reynaldo Corvington, who is accused of providing shelter to the assassins.

Corvington owns a private security company called Corvington Courier & Security Service, which he established in 1982, according to its website, which provides tips on how to survive a kidnapping.

During their arrests, police say they found several bullet cartridges, an AR-15, two handguns and bulletproof vests in Dragon's home.

Those arrests come just three days after Christian Emmanuel Sanon, 63, who is accused of organizing the assassination plot, was taken into custody.

Police said Sanon, who was ties to Florida, entered the country last month on a private plane 'with the intention of taking the Haitian presidency'.

Sanon allegedly recruited the Miami-based CTU Security, which is registered in Florida as the Counter Terrorist Unit Federal Academy LCC.

CTU Security, which is owned by Venezuelan businessman Antonio Intriago, has been accused of recruiting the Colombians that police believe are behind the attack.

Leon Charles, head of the Haiti's National Police, on Wednesday accused Intriago of traveling to Haiti numerous times as part of the assassination plot and of signing a contract while there, but provided no other details and offered no evidence.

'The investigation is very advanced,' Charles said.

Security forces inspect at the site after an attack at the residence of Haiti's President Jovenel Moise in Port-au-Prince, Haiti on July 7

Footage circulating online purportedly taken by a neighbour of the president shows men with rifles arriving outside the property

Charles has said that CTU Security used its company credit card to buy 19 plane tickets from Bogota to Santo Domingo for the Colombian suspects allegedly involved in the killing.

One of the Colombians who was killed, Duberney Capador, photographed himself wearing a black CTU Security polo shirt.

Nelson Romero Velasquez, an ex-soldier and attorney who is advising 16 families of the Colombians held in Haiti, said Wednesday that the men all served in the Colombian military's elite special forces and could operate without being detected, if they had desired.

Christian Emmanuel Sanon, 63, who was arrested in Haiti, i accused of being an organizer of the assassination plot

He said their behavior made it clear they did not go to Haiti to assassinate the president.

A Miami security professional believes Intriago was too eager to take the job and did not push to learn details, leaving his contractors in the lurch.

Intriago, who immigrated from Venezuela over a decade ago and participated in activities in Miami opposing the leftist regime in his homeland, did not respond to multiple requests for an interview.

He likes to be around powerful people and has posted photos on social media showing himself with them, including Colombian President Ivan Duque.

Duque's office on Monday disavowed any knowledge of Intriago, saying Duque was in Miami while campaigning for the presidency in February 2018. He posed for photographs with some of those in attendance, but Duque did not have any meeting or any ties with Intriago, the Colombian president's office said.

Florida state records show Intriago's company has changed names in the past dozen years: CTU Security to CS Security Solutions to Counter Terrorist Unit Federal Academy LLC.

CTU lists two Miami addresses on its website. One is a shuttered warehouse with no signage. The other is a small office suite under a different name. A receptionist said the CTU owner stops by once a week to collect mail.

The company website says it offers 'first-class personalized products and services to law enforcement and military units, as well as industrial customers.'

Suspects in the assassination of Haiti's President Jovenel Moise are shown to the media in Port-au-Prince, Haiti on Thursday

Weaponry, mobile phones, passports and other items are being shown to the media along with suspects in the assassination

But it ducked paying some of those wholesale companies for their products. Florida records show Intriago's company was ordered by a court to pay a $64,791 debt in 2018 to a weapons and tactical gear supply company, RSR Group. Propper, a military apparel manufacturer, also sued for nonpayment.

Alexis Ortiz, a writer who worked with Intriago organizing meetings of expatriate Venezuelans in the United States, described him as a 'very active, skilled collaborator.'

'He seemed nice,' Ortiz said.

Richard Noriega, who runs International Security Consulting in Miami, said he does not know Intriago personally but has been observing the developing situation. Noriega, who is also originally from Venezuela, believes Intriago was lured by the prospect of fast money and did not perform due diligence.

Putting himself in Intriago's shoes, Noriega said: 'I'm coming out of a complicated situation - of work, of income, of money. An opportunity arises. I don't want to lose it.'

Normally, a security company would seek all the details of an operation, to determine how many people to use and what level of insurance they would need. A priority would be to plan an escape route in case things go awry, he said.

'The first thing we (security professionals) have to take into account is the evacuation. Where will they exit? That's the first thing I do,' Noriega said.

But apparently that planning never happened, perhaps because the Colombians, or at least some of them, thought their mission was benign.

He said it does not seem logical that if the highly trained Colombians were there to kill the president, that they would not have had an escape route. Instead they were caught, some hiding in bushes, by the local population and police.

'It is very murky,' Noriega said.

Homeland Security Investigations, a US agency responsible for investigating crimes that cross international borders, is also investigating the assassination, a Department of Homeland Security official said. He declined to provide further details.

The FBI says it is 'providing investigative assistance' to Haitian authorities.
This is the dramatic moment a US Black Hawk helicopter plummeted from the sky before plowing through trees and lamp posts and crash landing on a street in Bucharest.

The aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing in the middle of a busy road on Thursday morning after suffering 'technical problems' during a training exercise in the Romanian capital.

Footage shows the helicopter flying as part of a group of six rehearsing ahead of events to mark Romanian Air Force day and the end of Romanian military presence in Afghanistan on July 20.

But the Black Hawk is seen suddenly losing altitude and dropping down perilously close to a busy road of traffic.

This is the dramatic moment a US Black Hawk helicopter plummeted from the sky before ploughing through trees and lamp posts (left) and crash landing on a roundabout (right) in Bucharest

The aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing in the middle of a busy road on Thursday morning after suffering 'technical problems' during a training exercise in the Romanian capital

The helicopter ploughed through trees and tore down two public street lights which ended up damaging two cars

Footage shows the aircraft flying low above vehicles on the street - with one car driving just under the helicopter - before it ploughed through trees and tore down two public street lights which ended up damaging two cars.

At one point, pedestrians walking over a zebra crossing stopped and looked in awe as the helicopter hovered just yards away from them.

The Black Hawk then landed nearby on a downtown roundabout on Aviatorilor Boulevard by Charles de Gaulle Square which traffic police had cleared. No one was injured in the landing.

The helicopter had signaled it was having technical difficulties, the authorities said.

'We are working with our Romanian partners to resolve the situation and we will provide more information as it becomes available,' the U.S. embassy said in a statement.

'We regret the incident that happened Thursday . with a helicopter of the U.S. Armed Forces that was forced to land in Charles de Gaulle Square in Bucharest,' Romania's ministry of defense said in a statement.

'The pilot managed to control the aircraft so that there are no victims, and the material damage is reduced.'

Military personnel inspect a Black Hawk helicopter at Charles de Gaulle square in Bucharest

The helicopter had signaled it was having technical difficulties, the authorities said

Firefighters and police officers inspect two fallen street lights which damaged two cars

Military prosecutors were at the sight of the emergency landing to investigate why it had happened

Military prosecutors were at the sight of the emergency landing to investigate why it had happened. Traffic will be restricted until the helicopter is removed from the road.

The aircraft has been temporarily moved to the side of the roundabout to allow for traffic to continue to flow, the U.S. embassy said in a statement.

The defense ministry has cancelled participation of all aircrafts in the two planned ceremonies, ministry spokesperson Brigadier General Constatin Spinu said.

'Both ceremonies will be held but without any participation of military aircrafts,' Spinu said.

Romania, a NATO member since 2004, hosts NATO command centres and a U.S. ballistic missile station.
An urgent alert has been issued for 44 new Covid exposure sites in Sydney, including 12 supermarkets, several chemists, and a doctors surgery.

The new list of popular shops and takeaway outlets are spread across the city, with five bus routes also linked to infected Sydneysiders.

It comes as NSW recorded 65 new local Covid cases in the 24 hours to 8pm on Wednesday, bringing the state's outbreak to 929 infections.

Seven of the sites are Tier 1, meaning anyone who visited at the listed times are considered a close contact and must immediately get tested and isolate for 14 days - regardless of the result.

Most of the venues - which include a bakery and McDonald's - are in Sydney's southwest, where the outbreak is currently concentrated after spreading from its original epicentre in the city's eastern suburbs.

The massive list comes as Greater Sydney residents brace for another two weeks in lockdown, after stay-at-home orders were extended on Wednesday until at least July 30

NSW Health has announced 44 new Covid exposure sites across Sydney on Thursday night, including 12 supermarkets, two Bunnings, and an entire shopping mall (pictured, Stocklands Merrylands)

Punchbowl's Chemist Warehouse (pictured) is one of seven new close contact sites identified in NSW

Fairfield's Star Sweet Patisserie was attended by a positive case on Sunday 11 July from 4.20pm to 4.30pm, while Service NSW, in Liverpool, was exposed the following day from 10.10am to 10.25am.

In Punchbowl, the same alert as been issued for the McDonalds after an infectious employee worked in the drive through on Thursday July 8 from 6am to 4pm.

The local Chemist Warehouse was also affected on the same day between 2.30pm to 3pm.

Further west, Penna's Green Valley Pharmacy was also exposed, as well as the Alpha Medical Centre in Seven Hills.

An employee at the doctors surgery then contracted the virus, working while infectious on Tuesday July 13 and Wednesday July 14 from 8am to 5pm.

The spate of exposed pharmacies and medical centres prompted a warning from Gladys Berejiklian, who said many of the 28 new cases who had been in the community while infectious had been out and about shopping for medicine for their symptoms.

Penna's Pharmacy, in Green Valley, has been listed as an exposure site after positive cases visited the drug store over the weekend

NSW Health have also extended the close contact times for Lennox Village, in Emu Plains, to include Saturday July 10, between 4pm to 4.45pm. The shopping centre is 58km west of Sydney

'Pharmacists are the biggest source at the moment of people spreading the virus,' she said.

She begged people who have symptoms to stay away from local drug stores and doctor's surgeries to avoid spreading the disease further, especially as they could infect vulnerable people with other pre-existing conditions.

'If you have symptoms or feeling sick, please, if you're worried, call somebody, or get tested,' she appealed. 'Stay home, isolate and get the best medical and health advice.'

It comes as the NSW Premier said the number of new local Covid infections is stabilising, but warned the numbers are likely to keep bouncing around.

Of the 65 new cases, at least 28 people were out in the community for part or all of their infectious period - a number that authorities want to drive down to zero.

'It has been a stable number, it hasn't grown... (but) unless it comes down, we can't get out of lockdown,' Ms Berejiklian told reporters on Thursday.

The majority of the new casual contact sites are in west and southwestern Sydney suburbs, including Fairfield, Auburn, Miller, Merrylands, Liverpool, Fairfield Heights and Smithfield.

However, others have been identified across the city, including a Bondi Junction chemist, CBD cafe, a hardware store in the inner-west, and a petrol station in Sydney's north-western outskirts.

A positive case visited Alpha Medical Centre in Seven Hills (pictured) on Monday, with a member of the staff picking up the virus

A regional petrol station, in NSW's Riverina region, has been named as a close contact site after a positive case travelled intrastate (pictured, Hay Shell, on the Sturt Highway)

An alert has also been issued for the Bunnings Warehouse in Alexandria, in Sydney's inner-west, which is now classified as a casual contact site

Passengers who travelled on five train routes between Auburn and Westmead stations over the weekend and on Monday have also been placed on alert, as well as shoppers across 12 supermarkets.

Coles stores in Edensor Park, Hurstville, and Oatley were added to the list on Thursday, as were two ALDIs in Riverwood and Miller and Woolworths in Auburn, Riverwood, Belrose and Fairfield Heights.

The list also includes the Lennox Village shopping centre in Emu Plains - 58km west of Sydney - two Bunnings stores in Alexandria and Jamisontown, a coffee shop, and a dry cleaner.

As Covid-infected Sydneysiders seek out medication, three other pharmacies, in Condell Park, Engadine, Riverwood, have been exposed to the virus.

Health authorities have also extended the exposure times for three previously announced sites, including Hanson Concrete Australia, D&M Excavations, and Emu Plains' Lennox Village.

Meanwhile, five million NSW residents will endure at least another fortnight of lockdown after a run of high daily coronavirus numbers forced the state government on Wednesday to extend stay-at-home measures at least until July 30.

A woman wearing a face mask walks past a mural at Bondi Beach on Thursday, during Sydney's third week in lockdown

Several alerts were issued for supermarkets, including this Woolworths (pictured) in Belrose in the city's north east

There are 19 Covid-19 patients in intensive care in NSW, with five ventilated.

Ms Berejiklian says movement around Greater Sydney needs to drop even further and again implored people to stay home unless essential.

She defended current work-from-home settings, saying residents able to work from home were already doing so. She said it was impossible to achieve 'perfection' in the settings for workers obliged to leave home.

Organisations have long been obliged to have Covid-safe plans in place for workers and numerous businesses have shut due to the incompatibility of their operations with current health orders, Ms Berejiklian says.

'There never will be (perfection) no matter where you draw the line... but what I do know is that the green shoots are starting to show,' the premier said.

A couple walk through Barangaroo (pictured), in Sydney's deserted CBD on Thursday afternoon

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said on Thursday the number of new local Covid infections is stabilising but warned the numbers are likely to keep bouncing around. Pictured: Police patrol in Sydney's eastern suburbs as the city remains under stay-at-home orders

Infection numbers continue to rise in southwest Sydney and a new 24-hour coronavirus testing clinic has opened at Fairfield.

There are now three testing sites in the area operating around the clock.

The clinics were inundated this week after essential workers from the Fairfield area were ordered to get tested every three days if they work outside the area.

Two of Sydney's major hospitals are also on alert after a nurse and a patient were diagnosed with COVID-19, but authorities say they are not panicked.

A pregnant patient at Liverpool Hospital, in Sydney's southwest, was diagnosed as Covid-positive on Wednesday after undergoing a procedure.

The hospital cancelled elective surgery to deep clean the operating theatre while close contacts are being tested and isolating for 14 days.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said hospital management 'understood what needs to be done' and were satisfied with the handling of the outbreak so far. He said the hospital was well equipped to replace isolating staff.

A new 24-hour coronavirus testing clinic has opened at Fairfield as infection numbers continue to rise in Sydney's southwest. Pictured: A health worker administers a test at the showground drive-through clinic in Fairfield

A pedestrian walks through the empty streets of Fairfield, where the city's outbreak is concentrated after shifting from its epicentre in the eastern suburbs

A nurse who worked at Westmead Hospital in the Covid-19 ward has also tested positive for the virus but there are no cases yet linked to the health worker.

The nurse was vaccinated and is currently asymptomatic.

NSW Health on Thursday afternoon confirmed another suspected case, at the Chris O'Brien Lifehouse for cancer treatment in Sydney, was a false positive.

Later on Thursday, it was reported that three south-west Sydney paramedics had picked up COVID-19, with contact tracing underway.

Covid-19 exposure alerts were issued on Thursday for two work sites in Greenacre over a two-week period, as well as Shell at Jindera and Shell Coles Express in South Gundagai in southern NSW after an infected removalist travelled through the area.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Scott Morrison says relief is on its way for parents, who will no longer have to pay for child care they're not using during lockdown.

The measure could benefit around 216,000 families across 3600 centres.
An ally of Alexei Navalny standing for election was prevented from registering after being forced to isolate.

Violetta Grudina faced an enforced hospitalisation in a coronavirus ward despite testing negative for the virus.

She is an ally of Kremlin critic Navalny, who was jailed on embezzlement charges in prison in February.

Grudina announced plans to run for Murmansk City Council in April, but had her office attacked and staff members detained, The Moscow Times reported.

She said on Wednesday that she was hospitalised under a court order in a Covid-19 ward, despite receiving a negative test from a clinic the same authorities who gave the order had authorised.

Violetta Grudina (left), an ally of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny (right), faced an enforced hospitalisation in a coronavirus ward despite testing negative for the virus which prevented her from registering in the election

Writing on her social media, she said: 'All this is being done so that I can't file paperwork to the Central Election Commission on time.'

Referring to the pro-Krelim party, she added: 'Think about it: A completely healthy person is forcibly hospitalised to eliminate them as United Russia's political opponent.'

She claimed that Health Ministry officials forced paramedics to diagnose her with pneumonia and take her to a coronavirus ward.

Associates said an ambulance was called after she lost consciousness and began convulsing after a court ruling.

Last month, Grudina was added to a list of members of Navalny's political network, which was ruled 'extremist', and was at risk of up to six years in prison.

Navalny, who is in jail on embezzlement charges he says are trumped up, and his allies have accused the authorities of using the law to crush opposition to the ruling United Russia party ahead of September parliamentary elections.

President Vladimir Putin signed a decree in June calling for a snap election on September 19 and, due tot he pandemic, voting in the election will last for three days from 17 to 19 September.
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Vice President Kamala Harris hosted German Chancellor Angela Merkel for breakfast Thursday at her Naval Observatory home, marking the first time she's hosted a foreign leader at the residence.

'We are pleased to welcome you Madam Chancellor and I know we are the fourth administration that you have worked with throughout your extraordinary career. want to thank you for your years of leadership,' Harris told Merkel outside the vice president's residence. 'Im very proud that I believe that I am the first vice president to host you at the official residence of the vice president,' Harris added.

The home at One Observatory Circle was under renovation when Harris was sworn-in in January, but she's used it more recently to host a staff barbecue following reports of a toxic culture brewing at the VP's office.

Business Insider published a follow-up story quoting former Harris aides as they reacted to Politico's initial report that described, according to one source, the vice president's office as an 'abusive environment.'

One former Harris staffer forwarded the Politico piece to their therapist with a note attached: 'Rarely in life are we publicly vindicated.' The aide said staffers went to therapy to 'resolve trauma from the on-the-job abuse' after finding out Harris would be the vice presidential nominee.

Other ex-aides stuck up for Harris and her management style. An ex-staffer from her days as California's attorney general called the coverage 'totally inevitable.'

'We could have foreseen this scrutiny,' the aide told Insider. 'We could have foreseen this scrutiny. It seems to me to be more gendered, the idea that strong women are b***hes and she's just another one.'

Vice President Kamala Harris (right) greeted German Chancellor Angela Merkel (left) in front of her Naval Observatory home Thursday morning in advance of Merkel's bilateral meeting at the White House with President Joe Biden

The working breakfast marked the first time Vice President Kamala Harris (left) has been able to host a world leader at the residence, which was under construction when Harris was sworn-in in January

The reports haven't impacted President Joe Biden putting Harris front-and-center on a number of issues.

She met with the delegation of Texas Democrats who fled the state earlier this week to stall a GOP-endorsed voting bill.

And, as the administration has done in the past, she's played the role of greeter for a foreign leader visit, though at the beginning of her tenure she met with leaders virtually due to the pandemic and then at her ceremonnial office in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, while the Naval Observatory residence was under renovation.

On Thursday morning, she and Merkel made brief welcoming remarks in front of the cameras.

'Im very honored to see you and I look forward to our conversation and it goes without saying that the relationship between our two countries is one founded on many shared values, including a commitment to democracy around the world,' Harris said. 'So, welcome, welcome.'

'Please, lets have breakfast, please,' Vice President Kamala Harris (left) told German Chancellor Angela Merkel (right) as the two leaders met outside Harris' Naval Observatory home for a working breakfast

Vice President Kamala Harris (left) greets German Chancellor Angela Merkel (right) at her Naval Observatory home for a working breakfast Thursday before Merkel visits President Joe Biden at the White House

Through a translator Merkel responded, 'I can only say that Im delighted too for this opportunity here to meet the first Madam Vice President of the United States of America and I think that we can indeed cooperate very well in order to boost values.'

'Please, let's have breakfast please,' Harris said, escorting the German chancellor into the home.

The menu consisted of a gruyere souffle, served with an arugula salad, featuring herbs from the residence's garden, along with fresh seasonal fruit.

The leaders were also served fresh baked sourdough bread, prosciutto, salami, cucumber, as well as coffee and orange juice.

Afterward a White House official said the two women had a 'wide-ranging and very candid discussion.'

'Topics crossed both domestic and international issues including current challenges, history between the two counties and future endeavors,' the official said.

The German embassy in Washington tweeted a photo of the two female leaders meeting simply labeling it, 'History.'

Merkel's visit to the White House marks what's likely her last trip to the U.S. as the German leader with elections coming in September.

Merkel is not seeking another term.

She will arrive at the White House for afternoon meetings with Biden and then will participate in a press conference.

Biden will then host the chancellor for a private dinner Thursday night at the White House.
This is the shocking moment two suspects flee just seconds after setting a TikTok family's car alight, which then exploded into flames and destroyed their home.

The yobs were caught on a neighbour's security camera running down the street towards a railway bridge after they had targeted social media stars The Smithy Family, at their home in Welling, south-east London, last night.

One of the thugs poured petrol or another flammable liquid into the family's 2017 Ford S-Max car while the other filmed on his mobile phone as it was set on fire.

The arsonist who poured in the petrol set part of his sleeve alight as he did so.

Shocking camera phone footage - obtained by MailOnline - shows the family's car on fire on their driveway as mini-explosions can be heard.

Separate footage shows the moment the yobs set fire to the car. One of the thugs was seen trying to douse the flames which had jumped to his sleeve.

The Smithy Family - father Nick, his partner Jess and their two children - have earned 2.5million followers on TikTok by uploading videos of their exploits.

However, they have had a three-month campaign of intimidation waged against them, which has seen nearly 100 takeaways ordered to their home in just one day and prostitutes sent to their door.

Earlier today, the Smithy Family shared footage of the aftermath of the blaze at their semi-detached house in Bexleyheath with their 2.5million followers.

Mr Smith told viewers that 'two people' were responsible for the fire and they 'could've killed our family'.

Exclusive footage shared with MailOnline shows the car of TikTok stars the Smithy family on fire after it was set alight by arsonists at their home in Welling, south-east London

Speaking to MailOnline this evening, he said: 'This has caused the best part of 40,000 damage to the house, which I've spent the last five-years doing up.

'I caught the culprits red handed on camera. One of them is seen lurking around the car trying to prise open a window before getting one of the doors open.

'While he's dousing the car in a flammable liquid, his mate's over the road filming it on his phone.

'The one pouring the liquid mistakingly spills some of it onto his sleeve so as he lights it, part of his arm goes up as well as he runs off.'

Mr Smith added: 'We've had three months of stress.

'We've had threats online, we've had people come by and smash the windows of the car and on the house, people have been delivering takeaways to the house as well as prostitutes.

'This is the last straw, I think, I can't move my family back here after this. I'm tired of it all.'

Yobs were caught on a neighbour's security camera running down the street towards a railway bridge after they had targeted the social media stars

A family of TikTok stars have claimed they are victims of an arson attack which saw their family home go up in smoke. Father Nick Smith told viewers that 'two people' were responsible for the fire and they 'could've killed our family'

The fire broke out at 10.45pm.

The flames and heat from the blazing car destroyed the front door and damaged some of the windows while the smoke blackened the whole of the front of the property.

Luckily, however, the family escaped serious injury.

A neighbour, who asked to remain anonymous, said: 'We've given our CCTV footage to the police.

'You see a bright flash and then a second later one man runs down the street, quickly followed by his accomplice on the other side of the road.

'They both ran over the railway bridge at the end of the road.

'It's disgusting, they have a young family who could have been injured or killed.'

Next-door neighbour Lisa Ring, 52, told how Mr Smithy passed his daughters; Amelia, aged six and nine-year-old Isabella and his newborn baby boy, Teddy, to her over their back garden fence.

Shocking camera phone footage - obtained by MailOnline - shows the family's car on fire on their driveway as mini-explosions can be heard

The fire broke out at 10.45pm. The flames and heat from the blazing car destroyed the front door and damaged some of the windows while the smoke blackened the whole of the front of the property

She said: 'The first thing I heard was my dog barking downstairs and then the street was lit up in an orange glow.

'Nick was in the back garden with the kids, I came down and met him by the fence and he lifted the children over to me to get them out of harm's way.

'Thankfully none of them were hurt but Nick and Jess were very shaken up. He said that he'd waken Amelia up and got her up but she was half-asleep and went back to bed because she didn't realise the danger but luckily everyone was safe.

'They've had a bit of intimidation over the last year, when their address was leaked over the internet, but it seems to have intensified over the last three-months or so.

'They keep on getting people send round takeaways, cash on delivery. Recently, in just one day, they had 95 takeaways arrive at their door.

'Some of the food had been delivered from miles away and Nick felt sorry for some of the smaller businesses who had been duped so he paid up. It cost him a small fortune.

'Escorts and prostitutes have also been sent round to their house, which isn't on as they have young children.

Separate CCTV footage showed the moment the men forced their way into the car and set fire to it

One of the yobs' sleeve caught fire and he was seen frantically trying to put it out

The inside of the car was then engulfed in flames, which went on to totally wreck the car

'This is much more sinister, however. There's one thing sending round takeaways but another torching their seven-seater car.

Ms Ring, who works as a concierge at London's Canary Wharf, said that a trailer on the family's driveway caught fire a year ago, which melted some of the front window bays on the house.

She said: 'At the time Nick didn't think there was any malice and that it was most likely a mechanical fault. But now, I don't know if he's all that sure.'

Ms Ring said that the local community are shocked that somebody could target the Smithy Family, adding: 'It's devastating,

'People are obviously jealous that he seems to make money out of TikTok and they are really popular on social media with millions of fans.

'Nick is a real family man and he says that it's his ideal job because he loves spending time at home with his wife and kids.

'I jokingly call him the 'pest in the vest' because he always wears one when he's larking about but he does so much for charity and he's got the biggest heart in the world.'

London Fire Brigade said 20 firefighters rushed to the scene last night after flames from a burning car 'spread up the outside of the house' and set a 'number of mobility scooters' alight.

Police were called by the London Fire Brigade shortly after 11pm on Wednesday night

The Smithy Family: How a builder turned his partner and children into TikTok superstars The Smithy Family first gained notoriety on TikTok during lockdown. Father Nick Smith and his partner Jess shared funny videos of their children Amelia, six, and Isabella, nine. Jess' half-brother Jack, 16, also appears regularly in the videos, as does Nick's son Ben, 13. He launched the account when his daughter said he was 'too embarrassing' to appear on her TikTok so had to create his own. Mr Smith - who has ADHD - used his regular posting schedule of around 15 videos per day to keep him focused and in a steady routine in lockdown. The family was so popular, Mr Smith was able to give up his job as a builder to do social media full time. They share clips of family life, along with sketches. Their TikTok bio reads: 'Life's what you make it so make it good.' Mr Smith has not revealed how much the family earn, but admitted the income from their Facebook page alone is more than what he made as a builder. The Smiths also use their platform to raise money for charity. They collected 60,000 worth of gifts for the Salvation Army over Christmas. They now have 2.5million followers on TikTok. Advertisement

On realising their home was ablaze, Mr Smith and his partner Jess grabbed their daughters Amelia, six, and Isabella, nine, and newborn baby son Teddy and rushed outside at around 10pm.

The fire was put out by 12.30am and the cause of the blaze is 'under investigation', Met Police said.

In a video shared to the family's TikTok account, Mr Smith shows the charred remains of the car which caught fire.

The video also shows his burnt out house, still glowing orange from the devastating fire.

The family's popularity on the video-sharing app has lead to online address leaks - resulting in bizarre deliveries turning up at their house unordered.

On one occasion, an escort arrived at the door of the family's home. Police have not said if the fire was targeted arson.

In one clip, Mr Smith says: 'I'm doing this video because people have already uploaded videos of the fire.

'We all got out of the house ok. Kids are fine. Me and Jess are fine, the dogs are ok.'

Breaking into tears he added: 'The house isn't ok. Jess and the kids are in a safe place.'

We went on to add: 'To the two people who have done this.

'You could've killed our family. And not only our family but our neighbours, my friends. It's unforgivable.'

In another emotional video posted today, Mr Smith wipes his fingers along the smoke coating the walls of his daughters' bedroom.

He says: 'My girls were in this room. But that doesn't matter to you does it.

'One of you filmed while the other one did it.

'I don't think you realise the consequences of what you've done.'

'It's my little girls' room man. They got it how they want it.'

He added: 'I've worked so hard all my life to do the right thing.'

Two online fundraisers have been launched to raise money for the family. One titled 'help the Smithy family' hope to raise 10,000 to help them 'rebuild their life again'.

In another emotional video posted today, Mr Smith (left) wipes his fingers along the smoke coating the walls (right) of his daughters' bedroom

London Fire Brigade said 20 firefighters rushed to the scene last night after flames from a burning car 'spread up the outside of the house' and set a 'number of mobility scooters' alight

London Fire Brigade were called to reports of a car alight that had spread up the outside of the house last night (the aftermath, pictured)

The Smithy Family first gained notoriety on TikTok during lockdown. Father Nick Smith and his partner Jess shared funny videos of their children Amelia, six, and Isabella, nine

Mr Smith launched the account when his daughter said he was 'too embarrassing' to appear on her TikTok so had to create his own

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: 'We were called to reports of a car alight that had spread up the outside of the house.

'There were a number of mobility scooters parked outside which had caught alight and were producing a large amount of smoke and flames.

'Everyone was out of the building before we arrived, and crews worked incredibly hard to prevent further damage to the inside of the property and to neighbouring properties.'

There were a number of mobility scooters parked outside which had caught alight and were producing a large amount of smoke and flames (the aftermath, pictured)

A 'number of mobility scooters' caught alight in the blaze last night. The flames spread up the house

Officers and the London Fire Brigade attended the scene and the fire was extinguished at approximately 12.30am, Met Police said

The force said nobody was injured in the blaze (the aftermath, pictured) and enquiries are ongoing

The fire brigade said the exterior soffits, fascia and guttering of a semi-detached house were destroyed by fire

The family was so popular, Mr Smith was able to give up his job as a builder to do social media full time. Above: Mr Smith and his children wear England shirts and face paint during Euro 2020

The family share clips of family life, along with sketches. Their TikTok bio reads: 'Life's what you make it so make it good'. Above: Mr Smith poses for a snap on Instagram

Mr Smith has not revealed how much the family earn, but admitted the income from their Facebook page alone is more than what he made as a builder

The family collected 60,000 worth of gifts for the Salvation Army over Christmas. They now have 2.5million followers on TikTok. Above: The family in one of their videos

A Met Police spokesman added: 'Police were called by the London Fire Brigade at approximately 23:06hrs on Wednesday, 15 July to a fire.

'Officers and the London Fire Brigade (LFB) attended and the fire was extinguished at approximately 00:30hrs.

'The cause of the fire is under investigation.'

The force said nobody was injured in the blaze and enquiries are ongoing.
SAGE data shows all jabs slash hospitalisation and death risk by up to 96%

But just 15% of people who got Pfizer are at risk of developing symptoms

Up to 45% of those doubled jabbed with AstraZeneca could get symptoms

Britons double-jabbed with the AstraZeneca vaccine may be three times more likely to get symptoms of the virus than those who got Pfizer and Moderna, according to SAGE figures.

Scientists at Imperial College London estimate two doses of AstraZeneca's jab is 55 per cent effective at blocking symptoms of the Indian 'Delta' variant.

But the efficacy figure for two doses of either Pfizer or Moderna is thought to be in the region of 85 per cent, they say.

It means that for 100 unvaccinated people who developed symptomatic Covid, 45 would have been expected to have developed tell-tale signs of the illness had they been given two doses of AstraZeneca's jab.

Just 15 people would have been struck down with symptoms for Pfizer or Moderna, according to the Imperial team, whose estimates were made in June.

The figures are the latest blow to the jab, after it was revealed by researchers today that elderly people who get that vaccine are less likely to have antibodies than those who had Pfizer.

But estimates from other universities found that the Pfizer and Moderna jabs are only slightly more effective than the Oxford injection.

Experts told MailOnline the jabs are 'holding up pretty well' at cutting the risk of severe illness, rendering Covid to just a bad cold for the majority who get infected.

Around 24.6million Brits have had AstraZeneca's Covid vaccine, while 19.1m have had Pfizer's. Another 1m have received Moderna's.

SAGE experts estimate 100 per cent of people who have not received a Covid vaccine are at risk of developing symptoms of the virus. Scientists from Imperial College London estimated the AstraZeneca jab was just 55 per cent effective at protecting against symptoms. A jab with this efficacy level means people jabbed with AstraZeneca have a 55 per cent lower risk of developing the illness than those who have not been vaccinated. So of 100 unvaccinated people who are struck down with symptoms, 45 of them would be expected to get ill if they were vaccinated. The same scientists estimated the Pfizer and Moderna jabs were three times more effective, with only 15 people per 100 vaccinated getting symptoms. The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine experts estimated that 29 per cent of AstraZeneca recipients would still fall ill with the virus, while just 16 per cent of people who got Pfizer or Moderna would become unwell. Experts at Warwick University believe the Oxford jab offer 82 per cent protection against symptoms and the other two vaccines are 83 per cent effective

Academics at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine  who also feed into No10's scientific advisory panel  say 29 per cent of AstraZeneca recipients will still get Covid symptoms, while 16 per cent of people who got the Pfizer or Moderna jabs will get unwell from the virus.

University of Warwick experts think the jabs are even more comparable, estimating 18 per cent of Oxford recipients would show Covid symptoms, while 17 per cent who got the other jabs would show symptoms.

The scientists estimated the same figures for the Pfizer and Moderna jabs, as they are both mRNA jabs.

The pioneering vaccines use bits of genetic code that prompt an immune response against the virus.

Surveillance data shows almost half of cases are now being spotted among Britons who have received at least one dose of the vaccine (orange line), while they are dropping among the un-vaccinated (blue line). Professor Spector suggested this may be the case because the virus is 'running out' of un-vaccinated people to infect

This graph shows the percentage of Covid swabs that detected the virus among Britons depending on whether they were un-vaccinated (red line), had one dose (blue line) or two doses (orange line). Almost half of all Britons who had Covid had been vaccinated in the week to July 10 (week 27 on the graph). Cases in un-vaccinated Britons did not appear to be falling here because the graph considers the percentage of people tested who had the virus

'Training camps' for T cells 'behind strong immune response in adenovirus jabs' Covid vaccines, such as the ones developed by Oxford/AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson, foster 'training camps' for infection-fighting cells that make the jabs highly effective in offering long-term protection, according to scientists. Research from Oxford University suggests adenovirus vaccines can generate 'strong and sustained populations' of a group of cells in the immune system known as 'killer' T cells, which find and destroy infected cells that have been turned into virus-making factories. This type of vaccine uses a harmless, modified version of a chimpanzee adenovirus (ChAdOx1) to enter human cells and trigger immune response. The findings, published in the journal Nature Immunology, are based on studies conducted on animal models. Paul Klenerman, Sidney Truelove professor of gastroenterology at the University of Oxford's Nuffield Department of Medicine, and one of the lead authors of the paper, said: 'Millions of people will have received adenovirus vaccines around the world  not only the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, but the J&J vaccine, and also the Chinese and Russian versions. 'The ultimate goal with these vaccines is the induction of long-term immune system protection using both antibodies and T cells. 'This research helps us to understand more on the process of vaccination, and why the effects on killer T cells are so prolonged.' Previous research has found the AstraZeneca vaccine to produce strong T cell as well as antibody responses. Antibodies are protective proteins produced by the immune system in response to infection. The researchers looked at the mechanism behind adenovirus vaccine vectors for Covid-19, and observed that adenoviruses can get into long-lived tissue cells, which in turn formed small, well-organised clusters acting as 'training grounds' for T cells. They said this may explain how adenovirus vaccines generate robust long-term immune system responses. Burkhard Ludewig, professor at the University of Zurich, head of the Medical Research Centre at Cantonal Hospital St Gallen, Switzerland, and also a lead author of the paper, said: 'Adenoviruses have co-evolved with humans over a very long time, and learned a lot about the human immune system in the process. 'Viruses are always the best teachers, and here they have taught us an important lesson about how best to boost killer T cell responses. 'The T cells that come from these cellular training camps appear to have a very high level of 'fitness'.' He added this technology could be used to develop vaccines for other deadly diseases. Prof Ludewig added: 'Hopefully we can put this to good use in designing new vaccines  vaccines that we still desperately need for diseases such as TB, HIV, hepatitis C and cancers.' Advertisement

Meanwhile, Oxford's jab is a viral vector vaccine, which contains a modified version of the common cold virus to trigger the immune system.

Despite estimates suggesting half of people given the jab would still be vulnerable to getting infected, all of the jabs offer high levels of protections against hospitalisation and death.

Scientists from the three universities agreed two AstraZeneca jabs slashed the odds of people going to hospital with the virus by 85 to 90 per cent.

Double-jabbed people who got the mRNA vaccines were 89 to 91 per cent less likely to go hospital.

All three jabs reduce the chance of dying from the virus by up to 96 per cent, according to the figures in the SAGE report.

Only over-40s in the UK can routinely get AstraZeneca, after the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) decided to restrict its use in May amid concerns about very rare blood clots in older age groups.

Nearly everyone eligible for the jab has already been fully immunised, with 95 per cent of over-50s and 90 per cent of people in their 40s receiving both jabs.

A spokesperson for Imperial said the scientists based their estimates on clinical trial data, including from Public Health England.

But there is uncertainty around estimates, due to the uncertainty around the Indian 'Delta' variant, they said.

Professor Neil Mabbott, a researcher at the University of Edinburgh, said Imperial's models of predicted protection were reasonably pessimistic.

He also said it is 'not quite as straight forward' as a single percentage risk for each jab because there are multiple factors that increase the risk of someone developing Covid symptoms.

For example, older people are more likely to get ill from the virus, even if they receive an mRNA vaccine, while younger people have a more robust response, Professor Mabbott said.

He said: 'These are models and real world data shows that the three jabs are holding up pretty well for hospitalisations and death, which are the parameters the vaccine makers were given.

'So far, the vaccines have only been tested alongside other precautions like social distancing and face masks.

'From Monday England will be the first to see how they hold up without any other measures in place.'

Professor Johnathan Bell, a virologist at the University of Nottingham, said we know from Oxford University's Com-Cov  which compared two doses of each jab with mix-and-match jabs  that Pfizer was superior to AstraZeneca.

But the scientists estimates of how effective the jabs are at protecting against Covid symptoms are models and the reality 'may be different', he said.

But if real world data shows a clear difference in the protection AstraZeneca offers against serious infections compared to Pfizer and Moderna, you could argue that those should be used, he said.

If the Government goes ahead with booster jabs in the autumn, Professor Bell said his personal views is that the mRNA offer very good protection, so a boost with those jabs may be preferable.

It comes a symptom-tracking study suggested today vaccinated people make up 47 per cent of all new Covid cases in the UK.

Professor Tim Spector, who leads the study run with health-technology firm ZOE, said the shift in trend was likely because the virus was 'running out' of non-jabbed Britons to infect, with nearly 90 per cent of adults having now received at least one dose.
A woman who went on the run with her husband six months ago after she allegedly shot and killed her co-worker over an argument about moving tables at a furniture plant in North Carolina has been found and arrested in Arizona.

United States Marshals announced on Tuesday that they had arrested Tangela Parker, 50, and her husband, Eric Parker, 62, in Phoenix in connection with the fatal shooting of Phelifia 'Michelle' Marlow on January 13.

'Today marks six months since the tragic murder of Phelifia Marlow,' Chris Edge, acting United States Marshal for the Western District of North Carolina, said in a statement following the Parkers' arrest.

'I hope on this day, Phelifia's family may find closure in knowing the Parkers have been apprehended and will finally answer for their crimes against a beloved North Carolinian.'

Tangela is being charged with first-degree murder and Eric is being charged as an accessory after-the-fact to first degree murder.

The couple will now be extradited back to North Carolina, waving their right to a hearing at an arraignment on Wednesday.

Tangela, 50, (left) and Eric Parker, 62, (right) were arrested in Phoenix, Arizona on Tuesday, six months after Tangela allegedly shot a co-worker over a dispute about table placements

The couple waived their right to an extradition hearing at an arraignment on Wednesday

Their arrest at 12.30pm on Tuesday comes after a months-long investigation stretching across eight states, in which officials posted their photos and descriptions on billboards and asked the public for help finding them.

The Marshals offered a $10,000 reward for any information about their whereabouts.

They reportedly received more than 30 leads into their whereabouts before tracking them down in Phoenix.

The Parkers were reportedly living under the aliases Jason and Elizabeth Reardon, and had survived by panhandling and begging for money, taking a job at a horse ranch in Phoenix to pay for a room they found on Craigslist, after living out of their Honda CR-V for nearly three months and changing out their license plates to evade authorities.

The couple had been doing 'everything possible they could do to stay under the radar', US Marshal Brian Alfano told WSOC, and had not taken any money out of their bank accounts since they first fled the scene of the shooting at TCS Designs in Hickory, North Carolina.

Phelifia Michele Marlow died of a gunshot wound on January 13

She is survived by her husband, two daughters and grandchildren. She is pictured here with her daughter, Makayla, who described her mother as her best friend

The shooting occurred on January 13 at around 2.30pm at TCS Designs in Hickory, seen here

Hickory police had found Phelifia at TCS Designs suffering from gunshot wounds at around 2.30pm on January 13, and she was rushed to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

At the time, Phelifia's husband, Justin Marlow, said she and Tangela had gotten into a 'very silly' argument about moving tables in the work place, and alleged that Tangela had been bullying his wife.

Phelifia reportedly filed a complaint with management following the argument, claiming Tangela had screamed at her, and management sent Parker home for three days.

She allegedly returned at 2.30pm on January 13 and shot Marlow dead.

Workers at TCS Designs said they heard at least two shots and that the furniture plant went on lockdown.

Phelifia's husband, Justin, and their daughter, mourned her after the shooting, claiming Tangela had bullied her, and had a reputation of being aggressive

United States Marshalls put up descriptions of Tangela and Eric Parker, seen here, on billboards as their investigation expanded into eight states

They offered up to $10,000 for any information about their whereabouts

Justin had previously told the Hickory Daily Record that he had had heard from people who worked at the plant that Tangela had a reputation for being aggressive and argumentative.

His daughter with Phelifia, Makayla, said she 'felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders' when she heard the news that Tangela had been arrested, describing her mother to WSOC as her 'best friend.'

Friends and family took to Facebook to mourn her loss in the wake of the shooting.

'It's so SAD. Michelle was a very sweet & loving person. She would do anything for anybody. I LOVE YOU MICHELLE,' one friend wrote.

Another wrote: 'I loved her so much. I am so very sorry. I hope that lady rots in hell.'

One woman said she grew up with Tangela Parker and described her family as 'church-going people'.

Phelifia is survived by her husband, two daughters and grandchildren.
Further education students in England will face fresh disruption in September after staff at 15 colleges voted to strike in a dispute over pay.

Employees of three London colleges that are part of Capital City College Group also voted to strike over working conditions and compulsory redundancies alongside pay.

The University and College Union (UCU) said an overwhelming 89 per cent of its members backed strike action, on an average turnout of more than 62 per cent.

The union said its members are angry at a 1 per cent pay offer, adding that the pay gap between college and school teachers stands at 9,000 as staff working in further education have suffered real-terms pay cuts of more than 30 per cent in the past decade.

UCU is calling for an increase of at least 5 per cent in an effort to close the school-college pay gap, adding that employers have until September to meet its demands or they will face strike action.

Further education students in England will face fresh disruption in September after staff at 15 colleges voted to strike in a dispute over pay

The pay ballots covered Carshalton College, City College Plymouth, City of Bristol College, City of Liverpool College, Croydon College, Kingston College, Lambeth College, Merton College, New College Swindon, Sheffield College, Wandsworth & Tooting College and Weymouth College.

The working conditions, compulsory redundancies and pay ballot covered City and Islington College, Westminster Kingsway College and the College of North East London.

General secretary Jo Grady said: 'This ballot result is an emphatic message from college staff to principals that they will not sit back while their pay is held down.

'Thanks to UCU's campaigning, colleges received an injection of government funding, but they have failed to work with us to prioritise pay.

'Instead, employers have recommended a derisory 1 per cent pay rise, which is a real-terms pay cut.

'College leaders urgently need to come to the negotiating table or they will face severe disruption in the autumn.'

Schools and further education institutions have faced significant disruption amid the Covid pandemic, with most students studying from home for the majority of 2020.

The University and College Union (UCU) said an overwhelming 89 per cent of its members backed strike action, on an average turnout of more than 62 per cent. Pictured: Kingston College

Education began to gradually reopen from March, with classrooms expected to return to near-normal from the new academic year in September.

Earlier this year, Britain's biggest teaching union was urged to show its 'collective strength' by threatening to strike over schools reopening in March.

Martin Powell-Davies, who is running for deputy general secretary of the National Education Union, branded Boris Johnson's plan 'completely reckless'.

The hardline activist had instead demanded a gradual reopening of schools  and only when case rates drop dramatically.

He called on the NEU, which has more than 450,000 members, to back his calls for industrial action if these conditions are not met.
Ancient state rivalries have boiled over online as Victoria's fifth lockdown sparks a bitter war of words with New South Wales after Sydney's Covid cluster escaped across the border.

Melbourne was ordered into yet another deep freeze by Premier Dan Andrews on Thursday after a total of 18 cases were found in the city since a team of infected removalists from Sydney brought the deadly Indian Delta variant of Covid into Victoria.

Online tempers ran hot with bitterness towards NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian for not locking down Sydney when the Bondi outbreak first began on June 16.

A flurry of bitter posts were put out on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook on Thursday by those furious at having to endure another lockdown, Melbourne's fifth since the pandemic began.

AFL star Dane Swan was one of many who let loose on Twitter with a foul-mouthed outburst of fury against Sydneysiders

On Thursday Victorian Premier Dan Andrews (pictured) took a couple of thinly veiled swipes at his NSW counterpart. Melburnians blamed NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian (pictured) for not locking down Sydney when the Bondi outbreak first began on June 16

It was another 10 days after the first case, an infected airport driver who caught the virus from international flight crew, was found before Sydney went into lockdown.

There have now been 923 cases linked to the outbreak, which has since seeped into Victoria thanks to two infected Sydney removalists who drove to Melbourne.

Mr Andrews took a couple of thinly veiled potshots at his NSW counterpart as he announced the lockdown restrictions, but locals picked up the baton online for him afterwards.

AFL star Dane Swan let loose on Twitter with a foul-mouthed outburst of fury against Sydneysiders.

'Every single a***ole who came into Melbourne from Sydney, broke the rules and f***ed us all again need to be named and shamed and jailed for life. And maybe some water boarding too. #c***' he tweeted.

Some Twitter users resorted to humour to get their feelings across, as seen here

He posted his stark message - which was liked more than 2,000 times in matter of hours - with an an animated picture of Liam Neeson on the phone with the subtitles, 'I will find you and I will kill you', like in his film Taken.

Melbourne had only just emerged from its fourth lockdown on June 11 before the latest outbreak sparked the new crisis.

The fifth lockdown is only set to last five days, but it's unleashed a torrent of anger among tired and frustrated Melburnians.

Australian writer Clementine Ford targeted her blame at the NSW premier.

'F*** u Gladys,' she raged on Instagram under an intense selfie. 'Such a massive f***ing kick in the guts for Victoria.

By the middle of the day the sarcastic hashtag #ThanksGladys was the number one trending term on Australian Twitter. Seen here are the NSW and Victorian premiers, Gladys Berejiklian and Dan Andrews

Outspoken Australian writer Clementine Ford (pictured), who lives in Melbourne, targeted her blame at the NSW premier

'After everything we did last year, the strictness we adhered to, the intensity of lockdown, to have this f***ing incompetent pack of buffoons mess this up so badly because they just cannot get humble and accept we did it right - it just makes me incandescent with rage.

'Sending all my love and hugs to everyone in Victoria right now. We can do this. Again.'

Twitter user Jazz Bennett went for humour in an online attack attack, posting a picture of Australia minus the entire state of NSW, with the message: 'Do you ever wanna just like...'

They added the hashtags #melbournelockdown and #ThanksGladys.

Another Twitter user added: 'There is anxiety right now in Victoria! We did the right thing and had a snap lockdown, now we are on the cusp of having to do it again!'

The row unleashed decades of rivalry between Sydney (pictured left) and Melbourne (right)

Hundreds of protestors stormed Melbourne's CBD to rally against Premier Dan Andrews the five-day lockdown before it started at midnight on Thursday. Pictured here are some of the protestors

'I'm really looking forward to @gladysb getting on national television tomorrow and issuing a sincere apology to the people of Victoria, Qld and South Australia for spreading #COVID to them, then resigning as Premier of NSW,' tweeted Richard Sallie.

By the middle of the day the sarcastic hashtag #ThanksGladys was the number one trending term on Australian Twitter.

However not everyone in Victoria was attacking NSW.

Hundreds of protestors stormed Melbourne's CBD to rally against the five-day lockdown before it started at midnight on Thursday, calling for Daniel Andrews to be sacked.

The Melbourne Freedom Rally said it had five main objectives, according to their website.

They include an end to Covid restrictions, an investigation into the handling of the coronavirus response, Mr Andrews' resignation, no vaccine mandates, and full refunds for those who have been fined for breaching coronavirus-related directives.

The group behind the rally also wanted Mr Andrews charged with crimes against humanity.

The group behind Thursday's night's rally in Melbourne also wanted Premier Dan Andrews (pictured) charged with crimes against humanity

'Nothing about the fact that this virus has travelled from Sydney is fair,' Mr Andrews said on Thursday, in the first of several swipes at his NSW counterpart.

'That's just the reality we face. I apologise to all Victorians that this is necessary.'

Mr Andrews then took a very clear swipe at his NSW opposite number's more gradual approach to lockdown, which has been criticised by some for not being severe enough, quickly enough.

NSW is now under strict restrictions until at least July 30 after Ms Berejiklian resisted a lockdown for 10 days from the initial outbreak on June 16 until the start of the current lockdown on June 26.

Critics have claimed the lag allowed the disease to spread beyond Sydney's eastern suburbs where it began to then sweep across the city and now move interstate.

'If you wait, if you hesitate, if you doubt, then you will always be looking back wishing you had done more earlier,' said Mr Andrews.

'I am not prepared to avoid a five-day lockdown now only to find ourselves in a five- week or a five-month lockdown.

'That is why we are making this very difficult decision and it is why I know Victorians will, despite the pain and the difficulty of, this know and understand that there is no option.'
Police are searching for a missing 15-year-old girl in Leeds.

Kaliah Ayse-Unek was last seen wearing a grey Nike hoodie and black Adidas skin-tight shorts.

West Yorkshire Police say she was also in white ankle socks, white Nike sliders and was carrying a black bag.

A spokeswoman for the force refused to tell MailOnline when she went missing and from what location.

Kaliah Ayse-Unek was last seen wearing a grey Nike hoodie and black shorts in Leeds

Kaliah is described as mixed race, 5ft 5in, of stocky build, having short, black, afro-type hair and could possibly be wearing glasses.

A police spokeswoman said: 'Concern for 15-year-old female Kaliah Ayse-Unek from Leeds.

'Wearing a grey Nike hoody, black bag, black adidas skin tight shorts, white ankle socks, white Nike sliders.

The missing girl was last seen in Leeds but police refuse to say when or where she vanished

'She is described as mixed race , 5ft 5ins stocky build short black afro type hair, possibly glasses.'

Anyone with information should call 101, quoting log number 1774-07.
The mother of a seven-year-old boy who died in 2017 has been remanded in custody accused of his manslaughter.

Laura Heath, of Little Clover Close, Nechells, Birmingham, has also been charged with four counts of child cruelty, but was not asked to enter pleas at the city's magistrates' court on Thursday.

The 39-year-old is alleged to have unlawfully killed Hakeem Hussain, who was discovered next to his great-uncle's terraced house in near-freezing conditions on Cook Street, in Nechells, Birmingham.

Emergency services rushed to the scene at 7.30am on November 26, 2017 but the youngster had suffered a cardiac arrest and could not be saved.

His mother Laura Heath, 39, was arrested at the time at the same address and she was charged by the CPS on Wednesday afternoon.

The cruelty offences are alleged to have been committed on dates between April 12 and November 26 2017.

His mother Laura Heath (pictured), 39, today appeared in Birmingham Magistrate's Court charged with manslaughter and four counts of cruelty to a child. She was remanded to appear at Birmingham Crown Court on August 12

Hakeem Hussain (pictured) was discovered near his great-uncle's terraced house where he and his mother had been staying on Cook Street, in Nechells, Birmingham

Heath spoke only to confirm her personal details during an hour-long hearing at Birmingham Magistrate's Court, which was briefly disrupted by a disturbance in the public gallery.

She was remanded to appear at Birmingham Crown Court on August 12.

Hakeem was a Year 3 pupil at Nechells Primary Academy, just yards from where the schoolboy was found.

Hakeem, of Long Acre, Nechells, was described as 'a most beautiful little boy... with a wicked sense of humour and an infectious giggle'.

Headteacher Julie Wright said at the time: 'Hakeem was a most beautiful little boy, a great friend to many staff and children with a wicked sense of humour and an infectious giggle.

''He was a warm and generous-hearted soul who was talented across many areas of the curriculum but especially so in music and the arts.

Two ambulances and a paramedic rushed to the scene at 7.30am on November 26, 2017 but the child had suffered a cardiac arrest and could not be saved

Headteacher Julie Wright said at the time: 'Hakeem was a most beautiful little boy, a great friend to many staff and children with a wicked sense of humour and an infectious giggle'

'His performance as the 'Christmas Star' in the year two nativity play last year will stay with me forever as he totally stole the show with his clear speaking voice and stage presence.

'There wasn't a dry eye in the house as he delivered his lines with poignancy, grace and humour.

'The twinkle in his beautiful eyes was as bright as the stars in the sky, and our love for him will shine out forever, from all of his Nechells family.

'Hakeem will be sorely missed by us all.'

One neighbour also said previously: 'He was the sweetest little kid. Would always be full of beans and would wave and say hello. Just a lovely little soul.'
U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Laredo Border Sector took 100 undocumented immigrants into custody after they were found crammed inside two tractor-trailers in separate incidents near the United States-Mexico border region in Texas.

The most recent smuggling attempt was foiled Tuesday when agents working a U.S. Highway 83 checkpoint northwest of Laredo and discovered 93 people in the cargo area after a Border Patrol canine alerted the officers.

The migrants, who were all illegally in the U.S., were identified as citizens of Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador.

Two days earlier, on Sunday, border officers ordered a driver to stop his truck for a routine inspection and found 10 Mexican nationals crammed in the back.

In both cases, the migrants and the drivers were taken into custody for processing.

A CBP spokesperson confirmed to DailyMail.com that the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas had taken over the investigation.

Data provided to DailyMail.com by U.S. Custom and Border Protection's Laredo Sector Border Patrol shows a 150 percent increase in undocumented migrants who have been arrested in smuggling attempts via trucks during the current fiscal year.

Stats show that Laredo Sector agents assigned to various highway checkpoint points in Texas have apprehended 6,317 as of July 11, 2021. The current fiscal year runs from October 1, 2020 to September 30, 2021.

In comparison, the border officers detained 2,300 migrants in all of fiscal year in 2020.

U.S. Custom and Border Protection's Laredo Sector Border Patrol reported that its agents found more than 90 migrants from Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador were packed into a tractor-trailer that was stopped on U.S. Highway 83 checkpoint northwest of Laredo, Texas, on Tuesday. Data provided to DailyMail.com shows that Laredo Sector agents assigned to various highway checkpoint points have apprehended 6,317 migrants between October 1, 2000 and July 11, 2021

Border officers from the Laredo Sector Border Patrol ordered a driver to stop his truck for a routine inspection and found 10 Mexican nationals on Sunday

The Laredo Sector is responsible for 136 Southwest border miles along the Rio Grande River between Mexico and the United States.

Its area of supervision stretches from the U.S-Mexico borderline in Texas to the Oklahoma and Arkansas state lines.

On a typical day, Laredo Sector agents manning the 'busiest' checkpoint in the country are tasked with keeping their eyes on '10,000 to 12,000 vehicles,' any of which could be use by criminal organizations to smuggle migrants directly from Mexico or from one Laredo to the rest of the country.

'They try to disguise themselves through heavy traffic here,' Laredo Sector North Station Patrol Agent in Charge Jaime Fierro told DailyMail.com. 'Hence it's easy to mingle within the traffic and exploit that. We're looking at approximately at 10,000 to 12,000 vehicles traversing through this checkpoint on a daily basis - 65 percent of that being commercial trucks. So we're looking for a needle in a haystack.'

Laredo (Texas) Sector North Station Patrol Agent in Charge Jaime Fierro told DailyMail.com that at least '10,000 to 12,000 vehicles' are inspected daily. The vehicle pictured was stopped earlier this month on a highway in Laredo. A group of migrants was hiding behind a makeshift partition in the front part of the freight container

X-ray image shows a group of migrants concealed behind a makeshift partition inside a trailer

Officers assigned to U.S. Custom and Border Protection's Laredo Sector Border Patrol detain a group of migrants who were found hiding inside a truck as part of a smuggling operation

While none of the migrants presented health problems in the latest apprehensions, the smuggling method is a growing concern for the Laredo Sector on summer days when the temperature inside a tractor-trailer can top over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Earlier this month, an x-ray machine led agents to a group of migrants standing together and concealed behind a makeshift partition in the rear area of the freight container.

'We are extremely concerned with that because lives are at stake," Fierro said. 'We are extremely concerned that people smuggled in masse in these tractor trailers that have zero to no ventilation. You can only imagine being transported in a trailer 100 miles up to San Antonio (Texas) at minimum in those types of situations.'

Smugglers used an AT&T service vehicle to transport more than a dozen migrants near Laredo, Texas

Laredo (Texas) Sector North Station Patrol Agent in Charge Jaime Fierro told DailyMail.com, 'We are extremely concerned that people smuggled in masse in these tractor-trailers (and other vehicles) that have zero to no ventilation'

The last monthly report released by CBP on June 9 showed that Border Patrol agents stopped 180,034 migrants in May along the southwestern border, a slight uptick from 178,854 the prior month, with the increase driven largely by single adults.

Laredo Sector border officers from nine stations saw encounters with migrant individuals spike from 10,926 in April to 76,670 in May.

CBP is slated to release the latest southwest border June numbers next week.
Hammersmith Bridge is set to reopen on Saturday to pedestrians and cyclists after a two year length closure.

The limited traffic will be able to use the 134-year-old bridge again from 9am on July 17.

River traffic will also be able to cross under the bridge for the first time since its closure.

The cast-iron structure has been shut to traffic since April 2019 when engineers found cracks in its pedestals.

Cracks in the pedestals have led to motor vehicles being prohibited from using the bridge since April 2019.

The crossing deteriorated further during a heatwave, leading to it being closed to all users in August 2020, including pedestrians and cyclists.

West London's Hammersmith Bridge is to partially reopen on Saturday after passing safety checks

Hammersmith and Fulham Council said pedestrians and cyclists will be permitted to use the 134-year-old cast iron structure

Bridge timeline  why will it take so long? Stage one: Start ferry contract - 66 working days (three months) after funding is released. It won't start until spring next year Then: Four months to 'understand' condition of the bridge's pedestals at a cost of 13.9m Then: Emergency stabilisation work fir seven months at a cost of 13.9m Then: Permanent stabilisation work, taking 21 months at a cost of 32m Then: Bridge strengthening, taking 30 months, for 80m. Total: 65 months, or five years and five months This still falls short of the projected six and a half year timeline Advertisement

This has increased journey times and congestion as people take alternative routes across the Thames.

The decision to welcome pedestrians and cyclists again on Saturday followed a series of safety investigations into the bridge.

An innovative temperature control system has also been installed by the council.

The 420,000 temperature control system helps prevent cracking in the pedestals.

Acoustic sensors have also been fitted to identify further cracks.

The board for the Case for the Continued Safe Operation of the bridge (CCSO), which is advising the council, said these measures combined with engineering inspections mean the safety risk of allowing pedestrians and cyclists to use the crossing is 'acceptably low'.

It went on: 'These arrangements are temporary measures and not a substitute for permanent repair.

'The application of a permanent solution remains a priority.

'Without a funded plan for repair the limited current use must cease eventually.

'It is not acceptable in managing safety risk to rely upon interim measures indefinitely.'

Despite the news of its partial reopening, no official date has been released for when drivers will be able to begin using it again.

Vessels on the River Thames will also be allowed to pass beneath it. Pictured: Protest in April over the length of time is has taken to repair the bridge

Buildings that took less time to construct than the Hammersmith Bridge repairs The Burj Khalifa skyscraper in Dubai, UAE A high speed bullet train crosses the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge Empire State Building, New York: One year and 45 days Eiffel Tower, Paris: Two years, two months and five days Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge (the world's longest bridge), on the Beijing-Shangahi high-speed railway: Four years Burj Khalifa, Dubai: Six years Buildings that took MORE time: Great Pyramid of Giza: 20 years Stonehenge, UK: 1500 years Advertisement

Hammersmith and Fulham Leader Cllr Stephen Cowan announced the decision during a meeting with engineers at the bridge.

Cllr Cowan said: 'I am very pleased to confirm the latest advice from safety engineers is that we can safely re-open Hammersmith Bridge. We have instructed the team to do that. It will open this weekend.

'I know how difficult the last eleven months have been for people, particularly children needing to cross the river to get to school and those who need to attend medical appointments or get to work.'

Hammersmith Bridge is one of the world's oldest mechanical suspension bridges and one of the most expensive in Britain to repair.

It is feared it could take up to six years to ensure it is safe enough for traffic to use.

There are also concerns the repair bill could spiral to more than 100million.

A row has been brewing between the Government, Transport for London (TfL) and local council officials over who will foot the eventual repair bill.

The Department for Transport said last month that the Government will not contribute more than a third of the repair costs of the bridge.

Cllr Cowan added: 'The potential for catastrophic collapse of this 134-year-old suspension structure was very real. We've employed the best engineers from around the world who advised we had to close the bridge last summer.

'We will always put the safety of the public first.

'Ever since, I have been determined to re-open the bridge as soon as it was safely possible. The introduction of the temperature control system, and the results of our extensive engineering investigations, now mean that the bridge can be opened for use by pedestrians, cyclists and to river traffic.'

Cllr Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond upon Thames Council, said: 'I recognise that this has been a long and difficult process for residents on both sides of the river and I would like to thank them for their patience. Safety has always been paramount and must continue to be so.

'However I am pleased to be able to tell residents that there is light at the end of the tunnel and am delighted that this historic bridge which connects our two boroughs will re-open to pedestrians, cyclists and river traffic this weekend.'

In February fed up residents illuminated Hammersmith Bridge in red in a Valentine's Day in protest at the continual closure of the bridge.

In April a group of rowers, including former British Olympians and Oxford and Cambridge boat race competitors, approached the bridge dressed as builders.

It's closure to river traffic also meant the historic annual Oxford Cambridge boat race had to be held away from its traditional home on the Thames last year.
Mansions in Floridas opulent Palm Beach community have been selling so frequently that real estate brokers worry they may run out of the extravagant, $50million homes sought by wealthy elites from New York City heading south following the coronavirus pandemic.

The average price for a single-family home in Palm Beach rose 38percent from last year to $11.7million now after a spike in demand sent prices soaring in the community, which features a section called Billionaires Row.

This is a whole reset of the market, Jonathan Miller, CEO of appraisal firm Miller Samuel, told CNBC. Were now seeing $50 million transactions on almost a weekly basis. Thats a big change. And it appears to be sustainable.

Mansions in Floridas opulent Palm Beach community have been selling so frequently that real estate brokers worry they may run out of homes to sell. Above, a 23,000-square-foot home on Via Bellaria is on the market for $39.5million

The average price for a single-family home in Palm Beach rose 38percent from last year to $11.7million in 2021. The above Mediterranean-style home on Woodbridge Road is on sale for $12.5million

A spike in demand sent prices soaring in the already extremely wealthy community. The nine-bedroom home above, on Lake Way, is on sale for $45million

Demand is surpassing supply and brokers are calling it a record-low mansion shortage. Above are Zillow's current listing of homes for sale in the Palm Beach area

Palm Beach's real estate market grew hot in the beginning of the pandemic, as wealthy New Yorkers began fleeing south where lockdown restrictions were less strict and Wall Street firms began expanding operations in Florida.

'Anyone with money is fleeing New York and coming here,' Guy Clark, an agent with Douglas Elliman Real Estate, told Bloomberg in January. 'It's a seller's market like I've never experienced.'

Job relocation has driven some of the migration, as hedge funds and other Wall Street firms open or expand offices in south Florida, which has no state income tax.

Another factor is the rising number of people deciding to permanently work from home and, for those who could afford it, relocate to more enticing or tropical areas.

The tether between work and home is infinitely longer now, especially for the wealthy, said Jonathan Miller, president of Miller Samuel Inc., the New York-based company that prepares sales the real estate markets served by Douglas Elliman Real Estate, including Palm Beach.

Palm Beach's real estate market grew hot in the beginning pandemic, as wealthy New Yorkers began fleeing south. This summer, the trend is only increasing

Overall sales of single-family properties, condominiums and co-operative units during April, May and June topped $1.5 billion, setting a new quarterly sales record, according to the report prepared by real estate firm the Corcoran Group

Overall sales of single-family properties, condominiums and co-ops during April, May and June topped $1.5 billion, setting a new quarterly sales record, according to the report prepared by real estate firm the Corcoran Group.

Not only has there been intense demand, Palm Beach continues to see significant gains across both median and average pricing for single-family homes compared to last year, largely due to strong activity at the very high end of the market, Corcorans John Hackett told the Palm Beach Daily News.

Prices in Palm Beach now match those in Manhattan in terms of price-per-square-foot, CNBC reported. Palm Beach prices hit $1,500 in the second quarter and Manhattan reached $1,545.

Despite the steep prices, homes still are selling rapidly. The number of sales of single-family homes in the second quarter jumped 90percent over last year, according to CNBC.

As a result, demand is surpassing supply and brokers are calling it a record-low mansion shortage. According to Miller Samuel, theres only about a one-month supply of homes for sale in Palm Beach. The actual number might be even smaller due to homes already in contract or heading to contract.

Despite the prices, homes are still selling rapidly

The number of sales of single-family homes in the second quarter jumped 90percent over last year, according to CNBC

Christopher Leavitt, a top broker in Palm Beach with Douglas Elliman, told CNBC that he has gotten creative when it comes to getting owners to put their homes on the market. He has made offers like helping owners relocate to other homes so they could sell theirs in Palm Beach.

Its about repositioning people, he said. Its no longer about just MLS listings and selling a house.

In April, Forbes reported that there were a record 48 billionaires with residential ties to Palm Beach, up five billionaires from the same time last year.

Some of Palm Beachs newest residents include Scott Shleifer, a partner at Tiger Global Management, who bought a $122.7 million mansion in Palm Beach in February  the highest price ever paid for a property there. David Tepper, a hedge fund billionaire, bought a Palm Beach spec mansion in the same month for $68 million. And Igor Tulchinsky, another hedge fund elite, recently bought a $39.5 million property in North Palm Beach.

Last summer, discount stock brokerage pioneer Charles Schwab used an ownership company to pay $71.28 million for a lakefront home. Real estate mogul Neil Bluhm spent $7.4 million on a condominium in September. And New York Jets owner Woody Johnson, of the Johnson & Johnson fortune, paid $56.2 million for two adjacent properties.

A private island on Palm Beach also just sold to Todd Michael Glaser, a spec developer, for $85 million. Glaser said he and his development partners plan for a swift renovation of the property before the sell it for a higher price, according to CNBC.
White House press secretary Jen Psaki on Thursday finally condemned communism as a 'failed ideology' as Florida's Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis and state Democrats piled the pressure on President Joe Biden to do more to help the people of Cuba during the regime's brutal crackdown.

'Communism is a failed ideology, and we certainly believe that it has failed the people of Cuba,' she said at her press briefing. 'They deserve freedom.'

The White House had given a more measured response to the protests that took place over food shortages and power outages.

Psaki originally refused to condemn the communist regime amid the state crackdown on demonstrations and instead blamed 'government mismanagement'.

Psaki also defended critics who say Biden hasn't done enough on the issue, saying 'he is certainly advocating for and speaking out as we put out a statement, multiple statements.'

'He has made clear that he stands with the Cuban people and their call for freedom from both the pandemic and from decades of repression and economic suffering to which they've been subjected by Cuba's authoritarian regime,' she added.

DeSantis, who is seen as a top contender for the GOP presidential nomination in 2024 should he run, weighed in, sending Biden a letter on Wednesday asking him for federal assistance to provide Internet access to the people of Cuba.

And Florida Democrats want Biden to come to Miami to give a pro-democracy and human rights speech that would address the situation in Cuba but could also tie in Haiti.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki finally condemned communism as a 'failed ideology'

Florida's Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis, a possible presidential candidate, asked Biden for federal assistance to provide Internet access to the people of Cuba

A part of the Florida Democrats' concerns is that Biden is missing an opportunity to court the crucial Hispanic vote, which Biden dramatically under performed with in Florida during the 2020 election.

The Cuban vote is particularly powerful in that swing state. Donald Trump won Florida's Cuban vote 56% to Biden's 41% in last year's election, which helped the former president carry the state.

Biden issued a statement after the protests, supporting people's right to demonstrate and acknowledging their desire to be free from the 'authoritarian regime.'

But Florida Democrats wanted more.

'I really believe this is one of those moments, I put it up with the moment of 'Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall' because I do believe we can give the hope to the people in Cuba,' Democratic state Sen. Annette Taddeo told the Miami Herald. 'It's really about the people in Cuba who need to hear it. The words of the president of the U.S., be it Republican or Democrat, should matter.'

Some Democrats worried Biden was taking the lead of liberals and being too cautious in his statements. While progressives, like Sen. Bernie Sanders, expressed support for the protests, they said nothing about totalitarian government.

'All people have the right to protest and to live in a democratic society. I call on the Cuban government to respect opposition rights and refrain from violence. Its also long past time to end the unilateral U.S. embargo on Cuba, which has only hurt, not helped, the Cuban people,' wrote Sanders on Twitter.

In the protests, many Cubans expressed anger over long lines and shortages of food and medicines, as well as repeated electricity outages. But there were also calls for political change in a country governed by the Communist Party for some six decades.

Police arrested dozens of protesters, sometimes violently, and the government has accused protesters of looting and vandalizing shops. Smaller protests continued Monday and officials reported at least one death. No incidents were reported Wednesday.

Republicans, in contrast, have taken a much tougher stance on the Cuban government.

Miami-Dade Democratic Party chairman Steve Simeonidis issued a warning on DeSantis, who is seeking a second term in the gubernatorial campaign in next year's election.

'The fact that Ron DeSantis is pretending to lead on this issue while completely making it partisan shows that this is a political game he's playing ahead of his reelection campaign,' Simeonidis said. 'I don't think there's anything that Joe Biden could do on any issue that would receive any praise from South Florida Republican elected officials.'

In his letter to Biden, DeSantis noted: 'The Cuban people have lost their ability to communicate with one another, and many Floridians born in Cuba have no information on the safety of their loved ones. Equally as important, the world has also lost the ability to see what is happening on the ground as the Cuban people rise in support of freedom.'

He called on Biden to provide the necessary authorizations and funding to help boost Internet access on the island.

Psaki acknowledged on Thursday that it 'is a huge issue in Cuba and one that is very challenging for the people of Cuba so they can gain access to accurate information they can correspond with family members and others.'

'We are certainly looking at that to see what can be done to address, but in terms of that specific proposal I don't have an assessment of that,' she added.

People protest to show support for Cubans demonstrating against their government in Miami
Samuel Cassidy, 57, shot dead nine coworkers at the Valley Transportation Authority rail yard in San Joe on May 26 before turning the gun on himself

A gunman who killed nine coworkers at a California rail yard in May had been questioned by Customs officers agents in 2016 after they found a notebook where he expressed his hatred for his job and 'dark thoughts about harming' two people - but they failed to tell his employer.

A newly released report from US Customs and Border Protection reveals that Customs officers spent two hours questioning Sam Cassidy and searching his luggage when he returned to San Francisco from a solo trip to the Philippines in August 2016.

A memo book was found during the search of his luggage that contained notes Cassidy had written saying he hated his employer, Valley Transportation Authority.

Officers also found 'very strange writing' they said contained 'dark thoughts' and described 'harming and vandalizing' two specific people.

The two names were redacted from the report, which was released after a Freedom of Information Act request from the Mercury News.

It is not clear if those two people were among the victims that Cassidy gunned down when he killed nine of his co-workers at the VTA rail yard in San Jose on May 26 before turning the gun on himself.

Despite calling it a 'significant encounter' with Cassidy in 2016, Border agents did not pass on the information to VTA or local authorities.

Customs and Border Protection have not commented on why they didn't inform other agencies about Cassidy.

VICTIMS: Top row, from left: Abdolvahab Alaghmandan, Adrian Balleza, Alex Fritch, Jesus Hernandez III. Bottom row, from left: Lars Lane, Paul Megia, Timothy Romo, Michael Rudometkin and Taptejdeep Singh

Surveillance footage captured the moment Cassidy opened fire at the Valley Transportation Authority rail yard in San Jose back in May

Santa Clara District Attorney Jeff Rosen said on Wednesday that he received a copy of the report last week and that he was concerned.

'I remain deeply troubled that something could have been done to identify or stop the man who cut down and destroyed so many lives,' Rosen said.

'I am meeting with federal and local officials in coming weeks to address this issue. Sharing information saves lives.'

During the 2016 questioning, Customs agents searched Cassidy's luggage, phone and digital camera following his two-week trip to the Philippines.

The report shows the agents appeared to spend more time examining whether Cassidy had traveled abroad for 'sex tourism' - noting the 'sex friendly' hotels he listed in his writings along with text messages with local women - than the memo book.

Agents asked Cassidy 'if he had problems at work with anyone and he stated no', according to the report.

The agents ended up finding five pornographic images on Cassidy's phone but nothing involving children.

Had the agents at San Francisco airport alerted the VTA or local law enforcement, California's 'red flag' law could have come into play.

It allows local authorities to cite the report to obtain a gun-violence restraining order, for instance, to temporarily seize firearms while authorities assessed whether Cassidy posed a public danger.

They also could have used the information to conduct an independent evaluation of the photographs in Cassidy's phone or camera.

In the aftermath of the mass shooting in May, it emerged that Cassidy had been investigated about his workplace behavior on five separate occasions within the last two years.

Authorities found 25,000 rounds of ammunition and numerous weapons in Cassidy's home after the shooting

Authorities said the weapons were stored near doorways in various rooms to access them easily in emergencies

Investigators are pictured above scouring the scene in the aftermath of the mass shooting

Cassidy had worked for the VTA, which provides bus, light rail and other transit services throughout Santa Clara County, since 2012 - first as a mechanic and then as a substation manager.

In the first incident that prompted an investigation, Cassidy was suspended for two days without pay in July 2019 for 'refusing to follow company policy in signing out a two-way radio'.

Then, in January 2020, Cassidy was accused of berating a colleague for '2-3 minutes' during a sign-up for vacation days. After that outburst, another VTA employee spoke to a supervisor. They claimed another co-worker had stated: 'He scares me. If someone was to go postal, it'd be him.'

The VTA concluded that Cassidy's behavior was not egregious enough to warrant formal discipline because he only had one prior complaint.

In October 2020, he refused to attend mandatory in-person CPR training, saying he was concerned about COVID-19 because the session would be held indoors. In November 2020, Cassidy 'left work without permission', prompting a fourth investigation.

Just three months before he carried out his massacre - in February 2021 - 'he was counseled for an incident in which he used the VTA radio system 'unprofessionally'.

He subsequently wrote an email to a supervisor, stating: 'My actions did not arise from a vacuum'.

The Santa Clara County Office of the Medical Examiner-Coroner identified the victims of the May shooting as Paul Delacruz Megia, 42; Adrian Balleza, 29; Alex Fritch, 49; Jose Dejesus Hernandez, 35; Timothy Michael Romo, 49; Michael Joseph Rudometkin, 40; Abdolvahab Alaghmandan, 63; Lars Kepler Lane, 63 and Taptejdeep Singh, 36.

Prior to the shooting, Cassidy is believed to have set fire to his own home, where authorities found 25,000 rounds of ammunition and multiple weapons.

Santa Clara County Sheriff Laurie Smith confirmed Cassidy had two semi-automatic handguns and 11 loaded magazines. The 9 mm handguns he had appear to be legal, Smith said, though his 11 high-capacity magazines  each with 12 rounds  are prohibited in California. Authorities do not yet know how he obtained the weaponry.
An academic falsely accused of being a sexual predator and rapist by an anonymous blogger has been awarded 70,000 in damages by a High Court judge.

Paul Blackledge, a professor in politics and ethics, was accused of a series of serious sexual assaults in three articles published under a pseudonym on the BlogSpot blogging platform last year.

The High Court heard that the posts were published under the pseudonym 'MeTooUCU', a reference to the MeToo movement and the University and College Union (UCU).

The articles falsely alleged Dr Blackledge, who has worked at universities in Leeds, London, Northumbria and China, was also guilty of rape as well as sustained bullying and the humiliation of his victims.

In a judgment on Thursday, Mr Justice Saini awarded the five-figure sum in damages, finding the allegations were false and 'gravely defamatory'.

The damages are likely to be symbolic as the anonymous blogger's identity remains unknown.

Paul Blackledge, a professor in politics and ethics, was accused of a series of serious sexual assaults in three articles published under a pseudonym on a blogging platform last year

He said: 'I am satisfied on the evidence that the claimant has never committed any form of sexual harassment, sexual assault, or rape.

'I also accept that he was devastated by these false allegations and finds the very idea of sexual violence abhorrent.'

The individual behind the website did not engage with the court or attempt to defend the allegations.

Mr Justice Saini said: 'The defendant has used the anonymity of the internet and social media to hide.

'The facts of this case are a striking example of how the internet and social media can be used to abuse and damage innocent individuals with apparent impunity.'

The judge said the blogger emailed Dr Blackledge's professional contacts with the allegations as part of a 'vindictive and relentless' campaign over several months.

A High Court (pictured, stock image) judge ordered Google to take down the website with the articles and awarded Dr Blackledge 70,000 in damages - although this is largely symbolic as the blogger remains anonymous

The blogger also shared the articles with other academics through an anonymous Twitter account, leading the judge to conclude they had been seen between 'the high hundreds to low thousands' of times.

Mr Justice Saini said the allegations would have been 'devastating' to Dr Blackledge's reputation.

He continued: 'The claimant can barely sleep from the torment of the allegations and thinks about them all the time.

'The website and emails have caused many who were previously close to the claimant to stop speaking to him completely.

'Others have told the claimant they would have to distance themselves from him despite telling him they did not believe the allegations.'

Mr Justice Saini awarded a total of 70,000 to Dr Blackledge for libel and harassment.

'This substantial sum is intended to reflect and signal the total falsity of the allegations against Paul Blackledge,' he added.

The judge also ordered that Google, which hosts BlogSpot, must take down the website with the articles.
Former Jackson County deputy Zachary Wester (above) was sentenced to more than 12 years in prison for planting drugs on innocent drivers during traffic stops and then arresting them

A former Florida sheriff's deputy has been sentenced to more than 12 years in prison after he was caught on body-camera video planting drugs on innocent drivers during traffic stops and then arresting them.

Former Jackson County deputy Zachary Wester, 28, was found guilty on 19 charges in May including racketeering, official misconduct, fabricating evidence, perjury, false imprisonment and possession of controlled substances and drug paraphernalia.

As a result, prosecutors had to drop charges in nearly 120 cases that occurred between 2016 and 2018 because of the accusations that Wester planted evidence.

During his trial, the prosecution argued that the drugs found by investigators were ready-to-plant evidence Wester used during his traffic stops.

Body camera video presented during the court proceedings showed Wester holding what appeared to be baggies filled with drugs surreptitiously before searching cars after stopping them.

While the motive behind Wester's actions remains unknown, prosecutors believe it could have been his desire to serve in the narcotics division.

Earlier this year, Former Jackson County Sheriff's Office Captain Scott Edwards told the Tallahassee Democrat that a job in the narcotics division came with pay increases, overtime, other less tangible benefits and more prestige.

'[Wester] mentioned in the past that he'd like to work narcotics,' Edwards confirmed to the newspaper.

He also noted that he would also look for 'proactive' deputies to serve in the narcotics department and is quoted saying he knew Wester to be proactive.

Wester (left) was in court Tuesday for sentencing after being found guilty on 19 charges in May including racketeering, official misconduct, fabricating evidence, perjury, false imprisonment and possession of controlled substances and drug paraphernalia

Body camera video presented during the court proceedings showed Wester holding what appeared to be baggies filled with drugs surreptitiously before searching cars he'd stopped

On Tuesday, about two months after his week-long trial, Wester was issued a prison sentence of 12 years, six months and eight days, WCTV reported.

Prosecutor Tom Williams had asked the judge to to sentence Wester to 15 years, saying he committed 'an egregious breach of the public's trust'.

'People voluntarily grant their government awesome powers they deem necessary for public safety and protection,' Williams said. 'With that great power comes great responsibility. The defendant made choices to violate that trust and committed crimes against those people he was sworn to protect.'

Wester's wife Rebecca, as well as more than 50 others, expressed their support for the former deputy and begged the judge for leniency. They argued that he is a good, churchgoing man who volunteers in his community.

'When that career ended, suddenly I watched a part of him and myself as well die,' Rebecca Wester said. 'This blow is one that will not be overcome quickly, and honestly one we may never overcome.

'The Zach that is in the court before you today is a mighty man of God. Has been greatly missed, but the place he has been missed the most is in our home.'

However, those who were directly impacted by Wester's illegal actions, felt quite differently about his character.

Teresa Odom, one of Wester's victims, told the judge he had ruined her reputation and deprived her of time with her grandchild.

'You robbed me of my credibility and being a mother and grandmother over the last two and a half years,' she said to Wester during Tuesday's trial. 'I wish you no ill will. But youll never know what you did to me until you have children of your own.'

One of Wester's victims, Teresa Odom (right), appeared in court Tuesday to tell the judge (left) how the former deputy had ruined her reputation and deprived her of time with her grandchild

Wester (left) stopped Odom (right) for a defective brake light in 2018 and asked for permission to search her truck. She agreed

Wester claimed he found a baggie of methamphetamine in her purse, but body camera video showed him palming a bag before beginning his search

Wester stopped Odom for a defective brake light in 2018 and asked for permission to search her truck. She agreed.

He claimed he found a baggie of methamphetamine in her purse, but body camera video showed him palming a bag before beginning his search.

Odom, who vehemently denied the drugs were hers when confronted by Wester, later pleaded no contest and received four years probation.

That conviction has since been thrown out.

Beginning in August of 2018, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement conducted a nearly year-long investigation into Wester after authorities noticed his name as arresting officer on a disproportionate number of drug arrests.

Multiple officials had expressed concern that Wester's vehicle searches were not always conducted legally, citing that his written affidavits did not always match what was shown in video footage.

Investigators say they found drugs hidden inside Westers patrol car and analyzed over 1,300 minutes of body-camera video to build their case against him.

Wester was fired from the Jackson County Sheriffs office in September 2018 and arrested in July 2019 as a result of investigation. He went to trial in May 2021.

Odom (pictured above), who vehemently denied the drugs were hers when confronted by Wester, later pleaded no contest and received four years probation. That conviction has since been thrown out
Britain and the EU are set to clash over the cost of Brexit after their estimates of how much the UK's 'divorce bill' will be were set 3.5billion apart.

The Treasury confirmed this afternoon that it estimates the UK should have to pay Brussels 37.3billion to severe its ties to the bloc.

But last week the EU's own estimate set the fee at 40.8billion, warning that it viewed that amount as 'final'.

It came as Brexit minister Lord Frost rejected calls to withhold payment of the bill over a continuing dispute about Northern Ireland's trading arrangements.

He said threats made had 'overwhelmingly' come from the EU, but he told the Lords he did not feel it would be right to hold the financial legal obligation 'in hoc' to the issue.

Confirming the UK government's estimate of the divorce bill in a written statement to Parliament, Chief Secretary to the Treasury Steve Barclay said: 'HM Treasury estimate that the current value of the financial settlement is 37.3bn.

'This remains within the Government's previously published reasonable central range, adjusted to take into account the UK's 31 January 2020 exit date.'

He added that the UK has already paid 3.74 billion euros (3.19billion).

Brexit minister Lord Frost rejected calls to withhold payment of the bill over a continuing dispute about Northern Ireland's trading arrangements.

Irish sausage war is a 'peripheral dispute' say retailers The 'sausage war' post-Brexit trade dispute between the UK and EU was 'not even handbags at dawn', a retail representative has told MPs. Aodhan Connolly, from the NI Retail Consortium, told the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee the chilled meats dispute was 'peripheral' and that much bigger problems for traders lie ahead. A number of business, retail and manufacturing bosses addressed MPs during a hearing on the impact of the Northern Ireland Protocol. The Protocol, part of the Brexit deal, is aimed at avoiding a hard border with Ireland by effectively keeping Northern Ireland in the EU's single market for goods. A potential prohibition on chilled meats from Great Britain travelling to Northern Ireland is one result of the Protocol, which has created a series of economic barriers on Irish Sea trade. A grace period to allow chilled meats to continue to be moved to Northern Ireland was extended until September 30, but there is still no agreement between the UK and EU on how to resolve the dispute in the long term. Mr Connolly told the committee: 'On chilled meats, if people think that is what a trade war is they are really going to be surprised when there is an actual war. That was not a trade war, that wasn't even a trade handbags at dawn. 'It is an emotive issue, but in trade terms it is a peripheral issue.' Advertisement

Last week the EU's annual accounts revealed it has set the estimated bill at 47.5 billion euros (40.8 billion).

European Commission spokesman Balazs Ujvari said: 'The report is final ... and the calculations were made in line with the withdrawal agreement.

A methodology for calculating the sum was agreed during negotiations for the Withdrawal Agreement that paved the way for the UK's departure, but an exact figure was not agreed.

The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) estimated it to be 37.1 billion in 2018.

Downing Street said it does not accept the revised EU sum, saying it does not take into account money owed to the UK by Brussels.

Explaining the difference during question time in the House of Lords, Lord Frost said Brussels' figure 'is an estimate produced on a different basis by the EU for its internal accounts processes'.

Pressing the minister, Tory peer Lord Moylan said: 'These are large sums... and it appears the EU is the final arbiter of what we should pay.

'I understand there are circumstances where you might want to give a trusted friend details of your credit card, including the three numbers on the back, but if that trusted friend is abusing the card isn't the right policy to cancel it?'

Lord Frost said: 'It is a legal obligation to make the payments to the EU that have been agreed in the Withdrawal Agreement. They were very heavily negotiated in some detail at the time and of course we stand by them.'

He later added: 'I don't think any of us on this side of the House feel particularly comfortable in paying large sums to the European Union but it is an agreed outcome in the Withdrawal Agreement and we stand by it.'

Lord Frost said he was 'not surprised' at the difference between the EU and British figures, and told peers: 'What matters is our own calculations and that we are comfortable with the bills when they arrive, which we are.'

Non-affiliated peer Baroness Hoey, a former Labour MP and prominent Brexiteer, said: 'As the European Union continues to show intransigence and a determination to show no flexibility whatsoever to the working of the Protocol, is it not time for the Government to hold back any more payment until the European Union shows itself to be more reasonable?'

Lord Frost said: 'Where threats are made in this process, they have overwhelmingly come from the European Union side and we regret that.

'I don't think it would be right to hold this legal obligation in hoc to progress on the Protocol, which is not to say that we don't think progress on the Protocol and implementing it in a pragmatic, proportionate and appropriate way is not very important. It is extremely important, but it is not the same thing as the exit bill.'

The British Government and the EU are locked in a row over the implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol, which keeps the region in the single market and avoids a hard land border with the republic.

This has angered unionists by effectively creating a barrier for the supply of goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

The UK accuses Brussels of not operating the arrangement in a 'pragmatic and proportionate way'.

It comes after Cabinet Office officials told peers this week that the EU had dumped more than 800 new pieces of regulation upon Northern Ireland without notice.
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris held a White House event Thursday marking the day the first round of child tax credit payments go out to some 39 million American families.

'This is a middle class tax cut,' Biden said. 'This is a tax cut for having children.'

The tax credits were part of the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan, which was passed by Congress in March with no Republican support. Republicans have argued that the child tax credit boost amounts to an expansion of the welfare state.

'We'll probably hear from our Republican friends all who voted against this, but they'll tout the success as it helps working families in their states and their districts,' Biden said, noting the lack of GOP support - and encouraging lawmakers to pass another bill that would make the tax credit permanent.

The White House invited nine families, including children, who will benefit from the enhanced tax cut to the event.

'For you anybody under the age of 13, this is going to be boring, boring, boring for you, right?' Biden warned the young audience members at the top of his remarks. 'We've got to work something out here ... they owe you some ice cream for this.'

At another point Biden assured audience members it was alright for their kids to get fussy as he spoke.

'That's OK, don't worry about it,' Biden said, as he tried to guess the gender of a baby and then settled on 'whichever.'

President Joe Biden (right) and Vice President Kamala Harris (left) held a White House event Thursday heralding the beginning of child tax credit monthly payments going out

The White House invited families to attend the president and vice president's remarks, including children

A baby attends an event at the White House Thursday as President Joe Biden touts the new child tax credit program

The American Rescue Plan, signed by President Joe Biden in March, allows child tax credits of up to $3,600 per year to be distributed in monthly payments instead of annually for children of couples who make under $150,000 annually or single parents earning up to $75,000

President Joe Biden (right) walks onstage with Vice President Kamala Harris (left) Thursday at an event touting the enhanced child tax credit

'This would be the largest ever one year decrease in child poverty in the history of the United States of America,' Biden touted.

Harris, who introduced Biden, did a call-back of one of the president's most famous quips when he served under President Barack Obama, in her opener.

'Let me underscore one important piece, this tax cut will be issued in monthly payments and America, yes, it is a big deal,' she said.

Biden had uttered to Obama when he signed the Affordable Care Act that it was a 'big f***ing deal.'

The boost will see individuals who make under $75,000 and couples earning under $150,000 with children under six-years-old receive $3,600 per child, with monthly $300 checks starting to go out July 15.

If those Americans have children between the ages of six and 17 they'll receive a $3,000 tax credit, receiving $250 a month starting Thursday.

'Because I know if the struggle to make ends meet is monthly, the solution has to be also,' Harris said.

'The payments may be monthly, but the impact of this child tax credit will undoubtably be generational,' she continued.

'Indeed it is the largest middle class tax cut in generations and will lift up half of our nation's children who are living in poverty, out of poverty,' the vice president added.

Individuals who make below $200,000 and couples making less than $400,000 are still eligible for the $2,000 child tax credit, the amount the credits were previously capped.

Parents will get half the credit they are eligible for in 2021, and will be able to claim the rest when completing this year's federal tax return early next year.

Cash will automatically start hitting the bank accounts of families who have filed 2019 and 2020 federal taxes.

Eligible families previously reclaimed the tax credit back when filing their annual taxes.

The initiative is intended to run for a year and is intended to lift millions of children out of poverty.

Biden has spoken of extending it to 2025 and hopes it could be made permanent.

Families with a single 'head of household' being paid up to $112,500 a year are also included.

There is no limit on the number of children parents will receive cash for.

The White House released explainers on how the new child tax credit would work when it was rolled out last month

Sam and Lee, who are a married couple making $100,000, would be eligible to receive $3,600 for their two children under six-years-old

Alex and Casey make $350,000 meaning they make too much money for the enhanced child tax credit, but can still receive $2,000 for each of their two children

Tim and Theresa didn't file taxes because their income is too low. They are, however, eligible for the child tax credit for their only child so they must use the IRS Non-filers sign-up tool to start receiving the monthly $300 payments

With the child tax credits, the administration launched a website with details for potential recipients.

The payments are to be made monthly, a first for the program.

People can register for the program even if they did not fully file their taxes.

Usually, tax breaks for Americans with kids and dependents come once a year, when individuals and families file their taxes.

'This tax cut will give our nation's hardworking families with children a little more breathing room when it comes to putting food on the table, paying the bills, and making ends meet,' Biden said when rolling out the program last month.

'Nearly every working family with children is going to feel this tax cut make a difference in their lives, and we need to spread the word so that all eligible families get the full credit,' the president continued.

The program is slated to expire after one year, though Biden has proposed extending it through 2025 with the ultimate goal of making it permanent.

The child tax credit payments, which will reach millions of American households, including 88 per cent of children in the country, could have a lasting impact in reducing childhood poverty and boosting future earning potential a White House official said.

The expanded credits could cost roughly $100 billion a year.

Estimates from the IRS suggest that 39 million households accounting for nearly 9 in 10 U.S. children are already set to receive the payments.

More than 65 million children nationwide  nearly 88 per cent of Americans under 17  are set to receive the benefits without their parents needing to take any additional action.

The IRS will determine eligibility based on the 2019 and 2020 tax years, but people will also be able to update their status through an online portal.
The Pentagon has admitted some of the Colombians arrested for assassinating Haiti President Jovenel Moise were once trained by the US military - marking yet another link between the American government and the alleged hit squad.

Pentagon spokesman Lt. Col. Ken Hoffman confirmed Thursday a 'small number' of the suspects had participated in US military training and education programs while serving in the Colombian military.

Officials have not revealed how many ex-soldiers were trained by the US, their identities or what the training involved.

However, Colombian officials have confirmed at least 20 Colombians accused of being involved in the deadly July 7 raid are former soldiers in the country's military.

The latest ties between Moise's alleged killers and the US comes days after it emerged that DEA and FBI informants were among the suspects, three US citizens with ties to Florida were arrested over the plot and a Miami-based security firm was accused of hiring the hit squad.

Colombian ex-soldiers, accused of involvement in the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise, stand in a courtyard in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, days before the deadly July 7 raid

The Pentagon has admitted some of the Colombians arrested for assassinating Haiti President Jovenel Moise were once trained by the US military. Pictured some of the suspects are paraded in front of the media last Thursday

Hoffman said in a statement to The Washington Post that the Pentagon learned of the ties to the US military after reviewing its training databases.

'A review of our training databases indicates that a small number of the Colombian individuals detained as part of this investigation had participated in past US military training and education programs, while serving as active members of the Colombian Military Forces,' he said.

Hoffman said its review of the matter is ongoing but added that the US provides military training for foreign countries to promote 'respect for human rights, compliance with the rule of law, and militaries subordinate to democratically elected civilian leadership.'

Colombia has long been a close partner of the US military, meaning soldiers often receive the same training given to American soldiers.

However, this means that US military expertise can sometimes be used for ill means, Senator Patrick J. Leahy told the Post.

'This illustrates that while we want our training of foreign armies to build professionalism and respect for human rights, the training is only as good as the institution itself,' he said.

'The Colombian army, which we have supported for 20 years, has a long history of targeting civilians, violating the laws of war and not being accountable.

'There has been a cultural problem within that institution.

The US has found itself increasingly dragged into last weeks' assassination of the Haitian president.

Three US citizens have been arrested over the plot, all with ties to Florida. They are Joseph Vincent, 55, James Solages, 35, and Christian Emmanuel Sanon, 63.

On Tuesday, the DEA admitted one of the Haitian-American men arrested was a former DEA informant.

A US Special Forces soldier observes elite Colombian troops during training at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida in 2015. The two militaries have a partnership dating back decades

The agency was forced to reveal one of its 'confidential sources' was involved because the informant had called his contact after the killing, exposing the link.

The DEA said it advised the source to hand himself in and helped arrange his surrender to Haitian authorities.

While the DEA did not disclose the identity of the informant, sources named him to the Miami Herald as Vincent.

Vincent helped the DEA in 2017 to arrest Guy Philippe, who led a 2004 coup against Haiti's then-President Jean Bertrand Aristide, on drugs trafficking charges, the sources said.

Vincent was with Haitian Police when Philippe was handed over to the DEA at an airport.

Philippe is now serving nine years in a US federal prison after he was sentenced in 2017 to nine years for money laundering in connection to an international narcotics scheme that involved smuggling drugs into Miami and other parts of the US in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Philippe was a close ally of Moise.

Footage from the early Wednesday assassination shows an attacker with an American accent shouting in English 'this is a DEA operation' as the hit squad arrived at the president's mansion.

Both US and Haitian authorities insisted in the hours after the assassination that the DEA was not involved.

Haitian police also said they uncovered a hat with DEA emblazoned across it in the home of another suspect arrested last week - Florida doctor and pastor Sanon.

Haitian President Jovenel Moise and First Lady Martine are pictured together in 2017

James Solages, 35, (left) and Joseph Vincent, 55, (right) are seen Thursday following their arrests. It has emerged Vincent was a DEA informant who handed over the warlord responsible for leading the last coup in the Caribbean nation

A stash of weapons was also uncovered at his home, police said.

Sanon is accused of being the mastermind of the plot in a quest to become the next leader of the Caribbean country.

The DEA has denied any involvement in Moise's assassination plot and said its informant was no longer working for the agency at the time.

Meanwhile, a number of the other arrested suspects are FBI informants, CNN reported.

An associate of Florida-based pastor Sanon has suggested the US supported the plot for him to assume control of Haiti, saying the mission was supposed to 'save Haiti from hell, with support from the US government'.

Alleged mastermind Christian Emmanuel Sanon (above) is said to have claimed the mission had the support of the US government

The associate, who spoke on condition of anonymity out of safety concerns, said Sanon told him he was approached by people claiming to represent the US State and Justice departments who told him they wanted to install him as president.

The plan was only for Moise to be arrested, the associate said, insisting Sanon would not have participated if he knew Moise would be killed.

Haitian authorities said Sanon and other plotters held meetings in the Dominican Republic to plan the assassination in the months leading up to it.

Leon Charles, head of the Haiti's National Police, said Thursday a photo shows Sanon and Solages meeting former Haitian opposition senator Joel John Joseph in the Dominican Republic while the three were planning the plot.

Joseph is still at large and is wanted by police over the attack.

'They met in a hotel in Santo Domingo,' Charles told reporters Thursday.

'Around the table there are the architects of the plot, a technical recruitment team and a finance group.'

Police said Sanon recruited the Miami-based CTU Security, which is registered in Florida as the Counter Terrorist Unit Federal Academy LCC to hire the Colombian ex-soldiers to carry out the attack.

Dimitri Herard (pictured), who is the head of the General Security Unit of the National Palace, was questioned at the Inspector General's office on Wednesday. It is unclear what, if any, charges he is facing

Solages is also accused of coordinating the plans with CTU.

CTU is owned by Venezuelan businessman Antonio Intriago.

Charles said Intriago is also in the photograph and allegedly visited Haiti several times to plan the assassination plot.

CTU Security allegedly used its company credit card to buy 19 plane tickets from Bogota to Santo Domingo for the Colombian suspects.

One of the Colombians who was killed, Duberney Capador, photographed himself wearing a black CTU Security polo shirt.

Charles also said a second Florida-based company - financial services company Worldwide Capital Lending Group - funded the attack, adding that its boss Walter Veintemilla also appears in the photo with the plotters.

The FBI and Department of Homeland Security are assisting the Haitian government in its investigation of the assassination.

Suspects in the assassination of Haiti's President Jovenel Moise are shown to the media in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, July 8

Weaponry, mobile phones, passports and other items are being shown to the media along with suspects in the assassination

Now more than one week on from the assassination, at least 23 suspects have been arrested and three killed while questions continue to mount over who ordered the hit.

The head of security at Haiti's presidential palace is among the latest to be taken into custody as authorities are now investigating if the plot was an inside job.

Dimitri Herard, who is the head of the General Security Unit of the National Palace, was questioned at the Inspector General's office on Wednesday before being taken to a police station, his associate Carl Martin told CNN.

Martin said he is coordinating Herard's legal defense team but it is unclear what, if any, charges he is facing.

Herard flew to Colombia, Ecuador and Panama in the months before the assassination, and Colombian police are investigating whether he had any role in recruiting the mercenaries, authorities said.

He is currently under investigation by US officials over allegations he is involved in arms trafficking in Haiti, Haitian and US sources told CEPR.

Martine Moise tweeted two photos of herself in her Miami hospital bed on Thursday

The 47-year-old, who had bandages covering her entire right arm, wrote alongside the photos that the pain of losing her husband of 25 years 'will never pass'

Haitian police said four high-ranking members of the president's security detail are being held in isolation but did not confirm if Herard was one of them.

Haitian Prosecutor Me Bed-Ford Claude last week raised questions about the president's security detail on the night of the assassination.

'They are responsible for the security of the president... I did not see any police victim except the president and his wife. If you are responsible for the security of the president where were you?' he said.

The Haitian National Police also announced the arrest of two more people in connection with the assassination: Gilbert Dragon, a former police superintendent, and Reynaldo Corvington, who is accused of providing shelter to the assassins.

Corvington owns a private security company called Corvington Courier & Security Service, which he established in 1982, according to its website, which provides tips on how to survive a kidnapping.

Footage circulating online purportedly taken by a neighbor of the president shows men with rifles arriving outside the property

During their arrests, police said they found several bullet cartridges, an AR-15, two handguns and bulletproof vests in Dragon's home.

The president's wife Martine Moise shared photos of herself in her Miami hospital bed Thursday, where she is recovering after sustaining critical injuries in the raid that killed her husband.

Martine, 47, tweeted two photos of herself showing bandages covering her entire right arm and wrote that the pain of losing her husband of 25 years 'will never pass'.

'I still don't believe that my husband has gone like this before my eyes without saying a last word to me. This pain will never pass,' she said in a translated post.

In a follow up post written in English, Martine said: 'Thank you for the team of guardian angels who helped me through this terrible time. With your gentle touch, kindness and care, I was able to hold on.'

The assassination of the president has left the country in turmoil with three men all claiming to be his rightful successor.
A British Airways jet collapsed on its nose while at Heathrow because a mechanic was too short to correctly place a locking pin in a hole, a new report has revealed.

The lead mechanic, who has not been named, intended to use the device to lock the nose landing gear of the Boeing 787-8 in the down position while its hydraulics were to be tested.

But a preliminary report by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch revealed that he was 'not tall enough' to reach the locking pin hole without steps.

He asked his taller colleague to place the pin in position and 'pointed' to the location of the hole, but the second mechanic ended up putting it in the wrong recess.

The result was that the nose landing gear suddenly retracted into the flying position when the hydraulics were tested by an engineer on the flight deck.

The front of the plane which was being prepared for a flight to Frankfurt smashed down to the ground, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage to the lower nose, the landing gear doors and engine cowlings.

An open door on the left side of the aircraft was ripped off its hinges and left hanging by its wiring after striking the top of a set of mobile steps.

This British Airways jet (above) collapsed on its nose while at Heathrow Airport because a mechanic was too short to correctly place a locking pin in a hole, a report has revealed

Investigators found that the nose landing gear locking pin had accidentally been put into the wrong place - a recess called the apex pin inner bore instead of the correct hole which was adjacent to it

Shocking photos showed the Dreamliner 787-8 with its nose on the ground and broken landing gear while a stair car stood by at around 8am on June 18, 2021.

Hundreds of Heathrow passengers watched on as airport emergency crews rushed to the scene as medics assessed two staff - with one in need of hospital treatment.

The report said that a cargo loader who was on the ground beside the forward cargo hold and the co-pilot on the flight deck also received minor injuries.

It added that the lead mechanic had successfully used a set of portable steps to install the four locking pins for the main landing gear of the aircraft.

The successful installation meant that the main landing gear did not retract when the hydraulics were tested and only the nose of the aircraft was affected.

Hundreds of Heathrow passengers watched on as airport emergency crews rushed to the scene as medics assessed two staff - with one in need of hospital treatment

Airport emergency crews rushed to the scene after the mistake ensured thousands of pounds worth of damage to the plane's lower nose, the landing gear doors and engine cowlings

Investigators found that the nose landing gear locking pin had accidentally been put into the wrong place - a recess called the apex pin inner bore instead of the correct hole which was adjacent to it.

An identical error was made on another Boeing 787 in 2018, causing its nose to collapse on the tarmac.

As a result, Boeing put out a service bulletin in March 2019, saying that an insert should be placed in the apex pin inner bore of other aircraft to stop the locking pin being placed in the wrong position.

The Federal Aviation Administration stated in January 2020 that the work should be done on all relevant Boeing jets within three years.

But the report found that the work had not yet been done on the BA aircraft involved in the accident at the time.

It added that BA was now planning to 'expedite the incorporation' of the recommended safety improvement to its fleet.

Following the accident report, a BA spokesman told MailOnline that the required safety improvements have all now been completed on the fleet of Boeing jets.

The report concluded: 'The investigation continues and will consider the safety procedures associated with landing gear maintenance, and the factors which may have contributed to the nose landing gear downlock pin being incorrectly installed in the apex pin inner bore.

'A final report will be published in due course.'

The report said the accident happened during a test of the hydraulics to clear routine maintenance messages before the aircraft's departure.

The lead mechanic, who was too short to put in the crucial pin and asked for assistance, had sent a message to the engineer on the flight deck to say that all the pins were in place.

The report stated that he appeared to have been misled as he had seen warning flags which appeared to show them in place even though the crucial one for the nose landing gear was in the wrong position.

British Airways has a total of 30 Dreamliner 787s in it's fleet, 12 being 787-8 and the rest being the slightly larger and newer 787-9 type.

British Airways confirmed that no passengers were involved in the incident as the aircraft was on a cargo flight.
A federal watchdog agency is suing Amazon claiming it has not done enough to protect customers from third-party products that could hurt or kill them.

The products in question include 24,000 faulty carbon monoxide detectors, a variety of children's clothes that could burst into flames and nearly 400,000 hairdryers that could electrocute people when wet.

The administrative complaint, filed on Wednesday by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), says the products were not sold directly by Amazon, but by third-party sellers.

It contends the company has not taken a proactive enough approach to removing them from its marketplace and assist in recall efforts.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is suing Amazon, saying the company has not done enough to protect customers from products that could hurt or kill them

CPSC demands Amazon recall hairdryers with electrocution list, faulty CO2 alarms and flammable pajamas Hair Dryers with an electrocution risk The CPSC says third parties have sold nearly 400,000 of these hairdryer-brush combo products that lack a device that turns it off when it comes into contact with moisture. Without it, the dryers pose an electrocution risk, the agency says. Flammable children's clothes The CPSC says Amazon has sold a series of children's sleepwear (pictured) that through its third-party sellers program that have failed the agency's flammability tests, and could burst into flames under certain conditions. Faulty carbon monoxide detectors The agency says that roughly 24,000 of these carbon monoxide alarms that failed to detect the potentially fatal gas were sold by third-party vendors on Amazon. Advertisement

The CPSC said it targeted Amazon in an effort to protect American consumers from products it has deemed dangerous.

'Today's vote to file an administrative complaint against Amazon was a huge step forward for this small agency,' CPSC Acting Chairman Robert Adler said in a statement.

'But it's a huge step across a vast desertwe must grapple with how to deal with these massive third-party platforms more efficiently, and how best to protect the American consumers who rely on them.'

The products named by the agency were sold through its Fulfilled By Amazon program.

Items from sellers in the program account for more than half of all physical goods sold on Amazon, generating more than $80billion in sales for the company sales last year.

The complaint acknowledges that Amazon did stop selling some of the products and notified some customers of the dangers posed by them, but that the unilateral actions taken by the company were insufficient.

Instead, the CPSC is demanding Amazon stop selling all of the named products and work with the agency on recall efforts and to offer purchasers a full refund.

Amazon responded to the complaint by insisting it had taken quick action when notified of safety problems for the products in question, telling customers of the hazards and offering refunds.

The company claimed that in cases where it did not recall products, the CPSC had not provided the Amazon with enough information.

'We are unclear as to why the CPSC has rejected that offer or why they have filed a complaint seeking to force us to take actions almost entirely duplicative of those we've already taken,' Amazon said in a statement.

In its complaint, the CPSC specifies three products the agency has identified as dangerous.

It says third parties have sold nearly 400,000 hairdryer-brush combo products that lack a device that turns it off when it comes into contact with moisture. Without it, the dryers pose an electrocution risk, the agency says.

Amazon has also sold a series of children's sleepwear through its third-party sellers program that have failed the agency's flammability tests, and could burst into flames under certain conditions, the complaint states.

Additionally, the agency says that roughly 24,000 carbon monoxide alarms that that failed to detect the potentially fatal gas were sold by third-party vendors on Amazon.

The commission voted 3-to-1 in favor of filing the complaint.

The CPSC only has the legal authority to identify products it has deemed dangerous and notify companies of recall notices.

If the company refuses to comply, the agency has the option to file a lawsuit, which can prove expensive, or otherwise publicly pressure the company.

That was the tact the agency took earlier this year with the fitness product maker Peloton, which refused to recall a treadmill the CPSC deemed dangerous to pets and small children.

CPSC Acting Chairman Robert Adler said the agency had voted 3-to-1 in favor of filing the complaint

In April the agency released footage of a young boy being sucked beneath a $4,000 Peloton Tread+ and grappling to free himself from the exercise machine.

It said it had learned of 39 incidents involving small children and a pet being injured beneath the Peloton Tread+ machines, including the death of one child.

The company shot back, saying in a news release that the warning from the safety commission was 'inaccurate and misleading' and that there's no reason to stop using the treadmill as long as children and pets are kept away from it at all times, it is turned off when not in use, and a safety key is removed.

The company acknowledged, however, that it was aware the issues concerning the treadmill, with Peloton CEO John Foley, revealing that the company was raising safety concerns regarding its treadmill in an email to consumers in March.

The complaint demands Amazon work more closely with the agency in product recalls, even if the seller is a third party

In the past the CPSC has put public pressure on companies that refuse to recall products, such as when it released video in April of a child getting sucked underneath a Peloton treadmill

'While we are aware of only a small handful of incidents involving the Tread+ where children have been hurt, each one is devastating to all of us at Peloton, and our hearts go out to the families involved,' Foley wrote.

Foley, who is also a co-founder of Peloton, went on to share the company's standard safety warnings, among them keeping children and pets away from exercise equipment at all times, and removing the safety key from the treadmill at the end of a workout.

Peloton would eventually recall the treadmill in May, and Peloton CEO John Foley appeared on Good Morning America to apologize that the company had not done it sooner

'We design and build all of our products with safety in mind,' Foley stated.

The company eventually issued a recall on the treadmill in May.

Speaking afterward on Good Morning America, Foley admitted it was a 'mistake' not to recall the treadmills in March, when the company was first told people were hurting themselves and when Foley sent out an email to users to tell them about a six-year-old child being sucked under one of the machines. That child, who has not been named, died of their injuries.

'We did make a mistake by not engaging earlier in the process,' he said, claiming the 'most important thing is the safety of our members'.

Now, he says they will not only recall the Tread+ machines, but they are also launching a software update across the cheaper treadmills that will require users to enter a key code to get it to start.
A Vietnam War veteran died of a heart attack after two men attempted to steal his car as he was running errands at a strip mall in Chicago.

Keith Cooper, 73, was on his way to get groceries at a small shopping plaza at Hyde Park - just a few blocks away from former President Barack Obama's Chicago home -on Wednesday afternoon when two men approached him.

Police said the two men demanded Cooper's Hyundai SUV at around 12.35pm, and punched him repeatedly in the head until he collapsed of a heart attack.

Some witnesses tried to fight off the attackers while two or three others performed CPR on Cooper, the Chicago Tribune reported. The two suspects then fled without the vehicle.

Cooper, a former Marine who served two tours in Vietnam, was taken to a local hospital and pronounced dead.

Two people are now being questioned in connection with the attack, police said, crediting witnesses for helping track down the suspects, WLS reports.

Police told DailyMail.com charges are still pending.

Keith Cooper (pictured), a Vietnam War veteran, died of a heart attack after two men approached him in an attempted carjacking Wednesday afternoon

The attack came just before Cooper's 74th birthday, for which he was raising money for a local church on Facebook

Cooper's death came just before his 74th birthday, family members said, for which he was raising money for a local church on Facebook.

His daughter, Keinika Carlton, was supposed to meet him for an appointment at 1.30pm that day, she said, but a while later, her older sister called to tell her she had talked to police, and their dad was in the hospital.

When she got there, she told the Tribune, she was told that her father had died.

'I'm just in shock,' she said in a later interview with WLS. 'I'm still in shock because this is not the way I thought my day was going to go.'

'He didn't deserve this,' she told the Tribune. 'I mean nobody does. This wasn't necessary. Honestly, I wish they just waited till he went into the store and took the car. Because at least he would still be here.'

Cooper had worked as a Lyft driver after retiring from his job driving trucks and selling books and jewelry.

He loved jazz, Star Trek and horror movies, Keinika said, telling the Sun Times she would remember him for 'his love, his support, his smile [and] his coming over for no reason.'

'It makes me so angry his car was worth more than his life to them, and that made no sense,' she said, adding that the suspects did not even take his car following the assault.

'It was two guys preying on a senior citizen,' her husband, Curtis Carlton, told the Sun Times following his death. 'I'm just wrestling with that. I can't fathom it. I can't understand why you would try to do that.'

His daughter, Keinika Carlton, said she was still in shock by what happened. She was supposed to meet her father that day for an appointment, she said

Cooper was reportedly running errands at a Hyde Park strip mall, seen here, when the two men approached him and started demanding his Hyundai SUV

A police officer took a photo of Cooper's car at the strip mall on Wednesday

Carjackings in the city have increased in recent years with 2020 seeing a 135 percent spike compared to 2019 - with 603 carjackings reported in 2019 and 1,416 reported in 2020, according to The Civic Federation, a nonpartisan government research organization.

And between January 1 and March 11 of this year, the Federation reports, there were 375 carjacking reports in the city, compared with 161 during the same time period in 2020.

The organization notes in its report that there had also been increases in vehicular thefts in other cities across the nation including Minneapolis, New Orleans, Oakland, Washington D.C. and Louisville, Kentucky, attributing the rise in crime to the pandemic, when people felt disenfranchised, teenagers were disconnected from school and youth programs, cities took steps to prevent adolescents from being held in detention facilities, people felt more anonymous wearing masks and police had trouble identifying suspects.

In 2020, the organization reports, only 5 percent of the 1,416 carjacking cases reported in the city resulted in arrests, but in February, former Cook County State Attorney Kim Foxx said that her office brings charges in 90 percent of adult carjacking cases and 80 percent of juvenile cases.

It is up to the court to determine punishment and sentencing.

Under Illinois state law, vehicular hijacking carries a prison sentence of four to 15 years for an adult, with 'aggravated vehicular hijacking,' carrying a longer sentence depending on the severity of the case, with vehicular hijacking with a firearm requiring 15 years be added to the sentence.

Sentences for juvenile carjacking, meanwhile, ranges from five years of court probation to detention in the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice until the age of 21.

Carjackings have been on the rise throughout Chicago in recent years

However, the Civic Federation reports, many do not result in arrests

The Chicago Police Department has since expanded its carjacking task force, adding 40 officers and four new sergeants to investigate carjacking reports in January, according to NBC Chicago, with a dedicated carjacking team in each of the city's five detective areas.

But the police department has faced a slew of departures in recent months.

A total of 363 officers retired from the Chicago Police Department between January and June this year, with another 56 on track to quit in July, according to figures from the police pension board.

If the trend continues, the mass departure will even dwarf the 560 retirements last year, when swathes of officers quit amid protests over the police murder of George Floyd and demands to defund the police.

With only around 13,000 cops remaining, Fox News reported that Chicago's 117,000 gang members now outnumber officers by roughly 10 to one, at a time when the Windy City is facing a surge in violent crime.

Chicago's crime surge: Shootings spike by 11% and sexual assaults by 23% as city struggles to combat violence The statistics below show change in crime from January 1 to July 11, 2021, compared with the same period in 2020: Murder -1% Shooting incidents +11% Criminal sexual assault +23% Robbery -5% Aggravated battery -6% Burglary - 39% Theft +5% Motor vehicle theft +8% Overall crime -6% Advertisement

Theree have been 1,688 shootings in Chicago this year through Sunday, FOX reports, an 11 percent increase compared to the same period last year, with at least 10 people shot Wednesday in two separate mass shootings in the city.

The first occurred just after midnight on the city's West Side, in which four women and a man were injured.

Police say the group was standing outside, when they were approached by a man who began firing.

Two women, 23 and 29, were shot in the buttocks, and an 18-year-old woman was shot in the left leg.

A 34-year-old woman was also shot in the thigh and refused medical attention, police report, while a 25-year-old man was shot once in each leg.

They were all expected to survive, and no arrests have been made, according to FOX News.

And just a few hours later, at around 12.10pm, another group was standing on a sidewalk when three gunmen got out of a car and opened fire.

Four men and one woman were hit, with three remaining in critical condition on Thursday - a 40-year-old man who was struck in the face, a 32-year-old man who was struck in the lower back and a 50-year0okld man who was hit on his side.

A 27-year-old woman was also shot in the hit in the shooting, and a 36-year-old man was shot in the ankle and refused treatment at the scene, but later took himself to the hospital.

The shooting occurred just outside Target Area DevCorp, a nonprofit anti-violence group, according to Fox News, with Autry Phillips, the executive director telling the outlet that the victims were not gang members and were standing on a street corner where people normally gather to converse.

'These guys were not carrying guns on the corner like some do,' he said. 'This is not that group.'

In the midst of all this, Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced on Wednesday that the city is implementing a two-part 'alternative response' pilot program this fall that takes a more public health approach to responding to 911 calls for mental health emergencies.

It will involve dispatching a team that includes a mental health professional and a paramedic to mental health-related calls, reported Chicago Sun-Times.

One program will involve sending a paramedic and a mental health clinician for 'behavioral health calls.'

A second program will involve sending a paramedic with a 'recovery specialist' for calls relating to substance abuse, the outlet reported.

It is not fully clear how 911 dispatchers will determine which calls should be responded to by police officers or by mental health professionals.

However, the city said mental health professionals will be stationed inside 911 call centers to help monitor situations and, from October, will be responding to some 911 calls by phone.

The new initiatives are part of Mayor Lori Lightfoot's $3.5 million Crisis Assistance Response and Engagement plan unveiled last month.

The plan also includes three new 24/7 drop-off centers across the city for people struggling with mental health issues.

One of the sites is already up and running at the Roseland Community Triage Center, while the other two are set to open on the north and west sides of the city.
Mr Bennett adjourned the hearing for a date to be fixed

Dyfed-Powys Police, liaising with the Health and Safety Executive and the Ministry of Defence, are investigating Hillier's death

Acting senior coroner Paul Bennett opened the inquest and told a Haverfordwest hearing on Thursday that is should be adjourned while inquiries continue

An inquest opened into the death of a soldier who was fatally injured during a training exercise at the Castlemartin range has been adjourned while inquiries continue.

Sergeant Gavin Hillier, 35, from the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards, died at the site in Pembrokeshire on March 4 this year.

Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire Coroner's Court heard that investigations into the incident by Dyfed-Powys Police, the Health and Safety Executive and the Ministry of Defence are ongoing.

Coroner's officer Lisa Jenkins told a hearing in Haverfordwest that Dyfed-Powys Police had been notified of an incident at the Castlemartin range in Pembrokeshire.

'Upon attending, they had been notified of the death of one male, identified as Sgt Gavin Hillier, of 1st Battalion Welsh Guards.

'Sergeant Hillier had been taking part in a training exercise when the incident occurred.

'Dyfed-Powys Police launched an investigation, liaising with the Health and Safety Executive and the Ministry of Defence, and this is still ongoing.'

Acting senior coroner Paul Bennett opened the inquest into Sergeant Hillier's death.

Sergeant Gavin Hillier, 35, from the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards, died at the site in Pembrokeshire on March 4 this year

He told the hearing that there were 'various inquiries' taking place by Dyfed-Powys Police, the Health and Safety Executive and the Ministry of Defence.

Mr Bennett said such investigations would need to be completed before it would be known whether the matter would remain with him or be adjourned.

'What I'm proposing to do therefore is to adjourn this matter to a date for a pre-inquest review hearing,' Mr Bennett said.

'That matter is likely not to take place before October 31.

'However, once I have the update from the various organisation that I've indicated that are investigating matters, I will be in a position then to determine whether I should resume the inquiry and hold a pre-inquest review for that purpose.'

Mr Bennett adjourned the hearing for a date to be fixed.

In March, the Ministry of Defence confirmed that Sergeant Hillier had died in a 'non-operational training incident' at Castlemartin ranges.

It said Sergeant Hillier served a 'distinguished career', deploying on operations in Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan.

In 2019, Sergeant Hillier was awarded the Long Service and Good Conduct medal by Prince Charles.

The Welsh Guards at the time dubbed Sergeant Hillier a 'stalwart' who had displayed 'the highest standards of behaviour' since joining the forces.

His wife Karyn and sons Declan and Connor said they were 'heartbroken' following his death.

'We are absolutely heartbroken and can't express how proud we are of you,' they said.

'Our boys will continue to make you proud and you will forever live on through them.'

His mother Karen and her partner Malcolm said they would be 'proud for always'.

The sergeant's heartbroken father said his son died doing the 'job he loved'.

He wrote in a social media post: 'Absolutely devastated to be writing this post, probably the hardest thing I've ever had to do.

'At 3.45 this morning I received a phone call that will forever change my life.

'My eldest son was in a fatal accident, in the army, the job he loved.

'Sleep tight and rest in peace son. I'm so proud of you. Goodnight and God bless. Love your heartbroken dad, xxx.'

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said he was 'deeply saddened' to hear of Sergeant Hillier's death.

'The dedication and distinction he demonstrated through his long Army career is evident in the testimony of those who served with him,' he added.

Previous incidents at the Castlemartin range (pictured) have claimed the lives of soldiers

According to the Ministry of Defence website, the Welsh Guards have a 'dual role' as a 'light role infantry' as well as 'world class ceremonial soldiers, guarding the Royal Family and Royal palaces such as Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London and conducting State Ceremonial duties'.

Previous incidents at the Castlemartin ranges have claimed the lives of soldiers.

In 2017, Corporals Matthew Hatfield and Darren Neilson of the Royal Tank Regiment died from injuries they suffered after their tank exploded during a training exercise on a firing range.

A 21-year-old soldier, Michael 'Mike' Maguire, died at Castlemartin in 2012 after being shot in the head while relaxing at a safe location just outside the training range.

A 2013 inquest into his death heard he was hit in the temple by a single machine gun bullet fired by a fellow soldier during a training exercise.

The inquest jury ruled Ranger Maguire, who was a member of the 1st Battalion, The Royal Irish Regiment, had been unlawfully killed.
Jerome Chene, 28,(pictured) is facing charges for allegedly distributing sexually explicit photos of his seven-year-old daughter in exchange for having sex with another man's girlfriend

A man Michigan man allegedly distributed sexually explicit photos of his seven-year-old daughter in exchange for having sex with a sexual predator's girlfriend.

Jerome Chene, 28, of Washington Township, was arrested for taking elicit photos of his young daughter and sending them to Daniel Flowers, 36, as payment to have sex with Flowers' partner Michelle Irwin, 31, police said Wednesday.

Chene's alleged crimes were revealed in a Genesee Human Oppressive Strike Team (GHOST) investigation into alleged sex crimes perpetrated by him, Flowers and Irwin.

The probe began earlier this month when police received a report about another exploited young woman who lived with Flowers and Irwin.

A Genesee nurse informed investigators on July 2 of a 21-year-old woman with special needs who disclosed information that caused the nurse to suspect that she was being trafficked.

Daniel Flowers (left) and Michelle Irwin (right) were arrested alongside Chene after a human trafficking investigation by police in Genesee County, Michigan

Law enforcement retained a search warrant and discovered that the 21-year-old woman was living with Flowers and Irwin. After meeting on Meet Me, the three met in-person which lead to the couple trafficking the vulnerable young woman.

During the search of Flowers and Irwin's apartment, police confiscated a backpack which was 'stuffed full' of provocative and disturbing items but the thing that peaked investigators' interest the most was a bag of Sour Patch Kids candy.

Sheriff Chris Swanson explained that predators often use candies, coloring books, and plus toys to lure in young children.

The candy helped connect Chene and Flowers when photos of the same candy were sent to Chene's phone.

This lead GHOST to complete an undercover investigation which lead to the discovery that Chene had been sending graphic photos of his young daughter to Flowers in exchange for sex with Irwin.

Sheriff Chris Swanson explained the human trafficking and child exploitation case during a press conference held on July 14

Chene was arrested on July 5 when he traveled about an hour to arrive at Flowers and Irwin's apartment to 'facilitate the exploitation of a seven-year-old' in exchange for sex.

Sheriff Swanson lauded the cross county efforts of law enforcement which allowed for the arrest to happen before the child was further exploited as law enforcement did their job to 'protect people who can't protect themselves.'

Chene was charged with six felonies and is currently being held in the Genesee County Jail on a $50,000.

Flowers and Irwin have been charged with five felonies and are each being held on $100,000 bond.

Nyse Holloman with Voices for Children, an advocacy center working with children and families of abuse in Genesee County, spoke with NBC 25 saying that the agency has seen a 30 percent increase of sexual abuse claims this year compared to 2019.

She explained: '97 percent of the cases that we see here in Genesee and Shiawassee Counties are by people that the children know. We've done a really great job as a community and society teaching about stranger danger but what we need to talk about is the familiar danger.'
A judge is reviewing potential new evidence in the Mollie Tibbetts case after lawyers for the man convicted of killing her claimed the college student was abducted as part of an Iowa sex trafficking ring and that a 21-year-old man confessed to being her 'real killer'.

Cristhian Bahena Rivera, 27, was scheduled to be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole on Thursday after being found guilty in May in the 2018 stabbing death of the 20-year-old Iowa college student.

In a bombshell twist, the judge delayed sentencing and is now reviewing the defense's request for more time and information that they believe will clear their client.

The defense have argued that a man allegedly confessed to two people that he helped kill Tibbetts after she was kidnapped and held at a house used for sex trafficking.

The judge will now decide if prosecutors have to share any information they have on a sex trafficking investigation in the region and a current missing person's case that the defense believe relates to Tibbetts' murder.

Cristhian Bahena Rivera, 27, was scheduled to be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole on Thursday after being found guilty in May over the 2018 stabbing death of Mollie Tibbetts

The judge said he would issue a written ruling at a later date and hold a daylong hearing on June 27 on the defense's request for a new trial.

Prosecutors say Bahena Rivera drove past Tibbetts while she was out for her daily run in Brooklyn and that he thought she was attractive, approached her and killed her after she threatened to call police.

They say he partially confessed during a lengthy interrogation a month later and led investigators to the cornfield where her body was found.

During his trial, Bahena Rivera claimed publicly for the first time that two masked men kidnapped him from his trailer and forced him to drive before they came upon Tibbetts on a rural road and one of them stabbed her. He said the men loaded her body into his trunk and instructed him to dispose of it in the cornfield.

The defense say two witnesses came forward independently of one another to partially support Bahena Rivera's testimony after his high-profile trial.

They named one of the witnesses as Arne Maki, who is currently serving time in the Iowa Department of Corrections for domestic abuse. The defense say Maki told investigators that a 21-year-old fellow inmate with a history of violence against women claimed responsibility for killing Tibbetts.

Maki said the man told him while they were at a county jail that Tibbetts had been kidnapped and brought to a local 'trap house' used for sex trafficking before she was killed.

Defense lawyers argue that the information from the witnesses could support a link between Tibbetts' death and the May disappearance of an 11-year-old boy from the area, Xavior Harrelson

The man allegedly told Maki that the house was owned by a 50-year-old who was running the trafficking ring and decided to have Tibbetts killed after the publicity surrounding her disappearance got too big.

The other witness who came forward was the man's ex-girlfriend. Defense attorneys said she told investigators that her ex had admitted to killing Tibbetts.

The defense say Arne Maki, who is currently an inmate, told investigators that a 21-year-old fellow inmate with a history of violence against women claimed responsibility for killing Tibbetts

Assistant Attorney General Scott Brown argued on Thursday that information about the 21-year-old from two witnesses was inconsistent with Bahena Rivera's own courtroom account of what happened.

Defense lawyers went on to argue that the information from the witnesses could support a link between Tibbetts' death and the May disappearance of an 11-year-old boy from the area, Xavior Harrelson.

Xavior vanished from his trailer park on May 28 during closing arguments of the Bahena Rivera trial.

'I think it would be preposterous to believe the Cristian Bahena and Mollie Tibbetts names did not come up in the Xavior Harrelson investigation,' attorney Jennifer Frese said.

'We had two people go missing in an incredibly small town and all we're asking is Mr Bahena Rivera be given a fair shot and, through his attorneys, be allowed to (learn about those investigations).'

The defense claimed that the 50-year-old man under scrutiny in the Harrelson case was previously accused of running a sex trafficking ring out of a home and kidnapping a woman he met in Tibbetts' hometown in May 2018.

Bahena Rivera, a dairy farm worker, claimed in his testimony that two masked men were responsible for the killing and had forced him to drive them around and dispose of Tibbetts' body at gunpoint. Tibbetts' partially naked and decomposing body was found dumped in this cornfield in 2018

Prosecutors told jurors that an autopsy found that she had been stabbed seven to 12 times in the chest, ribs, neck, and skull, and that she died from sharp force injuries

That woman told investigators that a man lured her to a house where she was repeatedly drugged, raped, and held against her will until August 2018. The woman said she sometimes would hear other women's voices in the home.

Law enforcement officials used the information to obtain a warrant to search the home days after they interviewed her in March 2019 but it had already been vacated by the man.

Defense lawyer Chad Frese said prosecutors should have disclosed information related to those allegations, which were investigated in 2019 but did not result in charges.

He said it was odd that such a small, rural area has had so many reported abductions.

'There's something rotten within this area and they don't want to provide us any information,' he said.

The prosecutor said it was 'unconscionable' that defense lawyers publicly revealed information about the ongoing investigation into the boy's disappearance and that it was not connected to Tibbetts' death.

The defense had previously noted the 50-year-old man is the former live-in boyfriend of Xavior's mother and that the two maintained a friendly relationship.

Investigators searching for Xavior began looking for the man almost immediately and arrested him on an unrelated outstanding warrant in another county the day after the boy was reported missing.

He has not been charged with any crimes related to the disappearance but remains in custody.


Two men who were discovered shot to death in a suite at the former Versace Mansion in Miami Beach apparently killed themselves on Wednesday, nearly 24 years to the day after the famed Italian fashion designer was killed by a suspected serial killer at his palatial beachfront home.

The bodies of the victims were found by housekeeping in the afternoon at the luxury Villa Casa Casuarina Hotel on Ocean Drive. A preliminary investigation ruled it 'an apparent double suicide,' Miami Beach spokesman Ernesto Rodriguez said on Thursday.

The deceased have been identified as Adam Rashap, 31, of Randolph, New Jersey, and Alexander Gross, 30, of York, Pennsylvania, police said.

Police are seen on the scene at the former Versace Mansion in Miami Beach, where Adam Rashap and Alexander Gross were found shot dead in a hotel room Wednesday

It is unclear why the men decided to take their own lives. It is also unknown whether the impending anniversary of Gianni Versace's death played a role in the tragedy that unfolded at the hotel.

A housekeeper at the $1,200-a-night hotel called 911 at around 1.20pm on Wednesday to summon police after making the grim discovery inside one of the rooms.

First responders with Miami Beach Fire Rescue pronounced the two men dead at the scene, reported Local10.

Police said the scene was contained to one room at the Villa Casa Casuarina Hotel on Ocean Drive, formerly the home of world-renowned fashion designer Gianni Versace

The incident comes on the eve of the 24th anniversary of Versace's death, which took place on the front steps of his mansion on July 15, 1997 (pictured)

The Miami Beach Police Department tweeted less than an hour later that the scene was contained to one room and detectives have launched a 'death investigation.'

The fatal incident comes on the eve of the 24th anniversary of Versace's gruesome murder at the hands of Andrew Cunanan.

The 27-year-old Cunanan, a former male prostitute-turned-serial killer, shot and killed the 50-year-old renowned couturier on the front steps of his gilded mansion on July 15, 1997.

Curious tourists pose every day for pictures outside the imposing wrought-iron gate where Versace was shot twice in the head at point-blank range.

Eight days after the assassination, Cunanan, who also was wanted for the murders of four other gay men from Minnesota to New Jersey, killed himself with the same gun he used to slay Versace.

First responders who were called to the scene on Wednesday pronounced the two men dead

Versace, 50 (left), was killed with two bullets to the head by serial killer Andrew Cunanan, 27 (right), who later committed suicide

Versace's blood and a pair of flip-flops are seen on the coral steps outside his mansion where he collapsed after being shot

Versace's murder shocked the world and has been drawing throngs of tourists to the site of his slaying ever since

Versace's funeral in Milan, Italy, was attended by the likes of fellow fashion icon Giorgio Armani, Sir Elton John and Princess Diana, who would be killed in a car crash in a Paris tunnel just a month later.

Versace had lived in the mansion part-time for five years leading up to his death after purchasing it in 1992 and spending $33million on renovations.

The 23,000-square-foot property, built in 1930 by a Standard Oil heir, was sold in 2013 to VM South Beach for $41.5million and was reopened the following year as a high-end 10-suite boutique hotel. It boasts a 54-foot 'thousand mosaic' swimming pool lined in 24-carat gold that was designed by Versace himself.

The mansion was converted into a boutique hotel in 2014, boasting this 54-foot 'thousand mosaic' swimming pool lined in 24-carat gold, which was designed by Versace himself

An ornate four-poster bed is pictured in one of the hotel's 10 bedrooms

Since its opening, the hotel has been drawing a steady stream of wealthy celebrity clientele, including Kim Kardashian and Justin Bieber, who in 2018 spent an eye-popping $50,000 on a two-night stay.

Single suites at the Mediterranean-style hotel typically range between $749 and $1,199 per night.

Versace's murder, which shocked the world, was the subject of Season 2 of American Crime Story, starring Edgar Ramirez as the ill-fated designer. It premiered on FX in January 2018.
Three weeks since the collapse of the Champlain Towers South condominium, Soriya Cohen is still waiting for her husbands body to be found.

Now the grieving widow is speaking out about her disdain for a judges decision Wednesday night to approve the sale of the oceanfront property in Surfside, Miami.

Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Michael Hanzman ordered that the process begin to sell the property even as the dead still are being recovered. Around noon Thursday, the Miami-Dade Police tweeted the names of the most recent victims identified, including Maria Notkin, 81, Valeria Barth, 14, Michelle Anna Pazos, 23, and Mihai Radulescu, 82, bringing the death toll to 97.

Cohen's husband, Brad, an orthopedic surgeon, 51, is still unaccounted for. His brother Gary Cohen, 58, was also in the condo during the collapse and his body was identified July 7.

Soriya Cohen is speaking out about her disdain for a judges decision Wednesday night to approve the sale of the oceanfront property in Surfside, Miami

Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Michael Hanzman ordered that the process begin to sell the oceanfront property where the Champlain Towers South condominium collapsed June 24

The judge's decision was made the night before four more victims were identified, bringing the death toll to 97

Soriya Cohen, who is still missing her husband Brad in the collapse, slammed the decision as a 'desecration.' She was at the site, holding up a picture of Brad on her phone

Asked about plans to build on the site, Cohen said to Local 10 News, I cant even imagine such a desecration. Imagine if that was your spouse, your parent or your grandparent and to make money, they built on top of it. [Brad] loved God and feared God and he believed in following the Jewish law to a T and the Halacha is about proper burial and cemeteries. It should certainly apply to him and Im asking everybody to please respect that and respect the families and the people who have already suffered a loss so much not to add to our pain.

Cohen said that the site should be treated like a cemetery and building on it would be disrespecting the dead and those who are still missing.

Miami-Dade Mayor Danielle Levine Cava announced Monday that workers believe they found Brad Cohen's ring and car, but Cohen said shes losing hope that he ever will be found.

She described missing him as being like having a mourning or Shiva process when you didnt have a funeral. Im not even 100 percent sure he is going to be found because they looked in his apartment and they only found his brother.

Brad, an orthopedic surgeon, 51, is one of the few who are still unaccounted for

The Cohen's daughter Elisheva, 12, met with President Joe Biden during his emotional day-long visit to the scene on July 1

Brads daughter Elisheva, 12, caught the attention of President Biden when he visited the scene on July 1. She had been found four days after the Champlain Towers South condo catastrophe by Surfside Mayor Charles Burkett sitting on a chair all alone reading psalms in a scene that he said 'broke my heart'.

Burkett told Dailymail.com: 'Today she met the President. He was talking about his family and the tragedy in his life. He specifically said to Elisheva, ''Try to be strong.'''

Gary Cohen traveled down to south Florida from his Alabama home to visit his elderly father in Boynton Beach, before fatefully deciding to spend time at his brother's 11th floor apartment. He was a psychiatrist at the Tuscaloosa Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

Soriya was staying at a different apartment building in Miami Beach with Elisheva on the night of the collapse. Elisheva has a brother Avi, 19, who was not home at the time of the collapse.

Soriya Cohen isn't alone in her desire to see a memorial at the Surfside condo site. During a recent news conference, Mayor Miami-Dade County Mayor Danielle Levine Cava said, We definitely need a memorial. We must have some sort of memorial. Exactly where it will be is going to be determined.

Burkett added, We are going to look for guidance from families.

The families of the deceased differ on what should happen to the property. A Change.org petition calling for the site to be turned into a memorial has received more than 1,200 signatures. Some want the condo rebuilt swiftly so they could move back in. Others want a hybrid of a new complex combined with a memorial.

According to USA Today, the sale could yield up to $110million and Hanzman said the proceeds should be split among the victims families. The court appointed attorney Michael Goldberg to handle the finances related to the sale.

In an email sent to USA Today, Goldberg wrote, [Hanzman] wants us to start exploring a potential sale. He did say he wants the land to be sold and the proceeds to go directly to the victims as soon as possible."

Goldman added, however, that the courts order does not prevent the buyer from turning a portion of the property into a memorial site.

The recently identified victims include Maria Notkin, a retired paralegal and banker, (right). Her husband, Arnold, a retired physical education teacher in Miami Beach, also died in the collapse and was identified on July 9

Valeria Barth, 14, (top) was identified days after rescuers found the bodies of her parents, Colombian lawyer Luis Fernando Barth (left) and his wife, Catalina (right)

Mihai Radulescu (right) was identified as one of the victims of the Surfside building collapse on July 9. He was above with his wife, Maria, who was also in the collapse and has not yet been found

An editorial published by the Miami Herald argues that the property should not be built on without adding some form of memorial with the input of the victims' families. It reads, Although we agree with the judges intent to compensate the families as generously as possible, these families displeasure at the decision is a reminder that emotions are so raw, that even well-intended decisions will not please everyone every step of the long, long way this case must travel.

Miami attorney Renier Diaz de la Portilla spoke to the Miami Herald editorial board about the judges order and said, This is not about money; there are religious reasons families want the land preserved as a memorial. These victims need a proper memorial and proper burial."

Diaz de la Portilla is working pro bono to represent Martin Lagesfeld, who lost his sister Nicole Lagesfeld and brother-in-law Louis Sadovnic in the collapse.

The recently identified victims include Maria Notkin, a retired paralegal and banker. Her husband, Arnold, a retired physical education teacher in Miami Beach, also died in the collapse and was identified on July 9. The Notkins were regulars at Temple Menorah where at least 350 had gathered on Sunday, July 11, for their joint memorial service.

Valeria Barth was identified days after rescuers found the bodies of her parents, Colombian lawyer Luis Fernando Barth and his wife, Catalina. They had been staying with a friend at the building for about a month and were supposed to leave the day of the collapse, his brother told the Miami Herald last month.
Police were led to a woman's dismembered remains buried on the property of a home in Missouri by a teenage girl who has accused the homeowner of sexual abuse.

The teenager told police she learned that 40-year-old Michael Hendricks had killed a woman and hid her body. She also was shown photos of a womans dismembered body, the girl told investigators.

Independence police announced Wednesday that they found human remains on the property in the 4000 block of South Buckner-Tarsney Road near Grain Valley amid a missing person investigation. Investigators have not identified the remains and declined to identify the missing person.

Michael Hendricks, 40 (left), faces charges related to child abuse along with his girlfriend, Maggie Ybarra, 30 (right). On Wednesday, police unearthed human remains on Hendricks' property in rural Missouri

The remains were found on the property in the 4000 block of South Buckner-Tarsney Road near Grain Valley amid a missing person investigation

Officer John Syme, with the Independence Police Department, said once the body is positively identified, the case will be referred to the Jackson County Prosecutor's Office.

Hendricks has not been charged in connection with the human remains, but he has been jailed on $500,000 bond stemming from accusations of sexually abusing the girl who reported the body to the police.

Hendrick's girlfriend, 30-year-old Maggie Ybarra, faces the same charges as her boyfriend, including two counts of enticement or attempted enticement of a child less than 15 years old, third-degree child molestation of a child less than 14, two counts of first-degree sexual misconduct and four counts related to tampering with evidence.

The case began unfolding in April, when the unnamed teen, who is in the foster care system, told police that Ybarra had shown her photos on her phone depicting a naked, bound and gagged woman.

Police were led to the scene by a teenage girl, who told them that she heard from Ybarra that Hendricks had choked a woman to death, dismembered her body and buried it

The body found near Grain Valley has not been identified and police have not named the missing person

Other images were said to have depicted dismembered human remains.

Ybarra allegedly told the teen that she and Hendricks 'killed the female and disposed of the body,' according to a probable cause statement cited by KSHB.

The woman allegedly went on to reveal that she and her boyfriend were in a sexual relationship with the victim in the photos, and that Hendricks 'choked her to death' before stuffing her body in the freezer, then cutting it up and burying it.

Police have not revealed the exact nature of Ybarra's relationship with the girl, but the court document stated that the teen was removed from her care as a child stemming from allegations of sexual abuse by one of the woman's ex-boyfriends.

The teen reconnected with Ybarra last fall and began visiting her every week.

The girl claimed that Hendricks, the owner of a small aviation company, once kissed her on the knee in a sexual manner, and another time touched her inappropriately after Ybarra had her put on lingerie.

FBI agents are seen on the scene assisting with the investigation into the dismembered body

On that occasion, the girl said Hendricks told her 'it turned him on when people died' as all three of them were in bed together watching a horror film.

Ybarra and Hendricks began having sex and asked the teen if she wanted to know what it felt like, according to the records. The next day, the woman allegedly told the girl she and Hendricks wanted to have a sexual relationship with her.

Hendricks and Ybarra are scheduled to appear in court on July 20 for a pre-trial hearing.
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Melinda Gates was spotted enjoying a girls' weekend with her daughter Jennifer in New York City, just days after soon-to-be ex-husband Bill opened up about their split, tearfully telling the Sun Valley crowd 'I blame myself'.

Melinda, 56, was all smiles as she was pictured strolling through the streets of the Big Apple and lounging in her hotel suite with her 25-year-old daughter and her daughter's girlfriends over the weekend.

Jennifer posted a slide show of three snaps on her Instagram Wednesday writing: 'Such a joy having these ladies visit me this past weekend in the city thats starting to feel like home.'

Melinda and Bill sent shockwaves around the world back in May when the power couple announced they were divorcing after 27 years and three children together.

Since then, Bill has been rocked by numerous claims he pursued extramarital affairs and acted inappropriately toward female Microsoft employees, while his friendship with convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein has also fallen under the spotlight.

Melinda Gates was spotted enjoying a girls' weekend with her daughter Jennifer, 25, and her friends in NYC in photos posted on Jennifer's Instagram. Melinda and her daughter's three friends - Paige Bellissimo, Cate Guyman and Taylor Alexander - were all smiles while Jennifer is thought to be behind the camera

Melinda, 56, is seen second from right lounging in a suite with her eldest daughter's girlfriends inside the trendy Greenwich Hotel in Manhattan

Jennifer (second on right) is pictured dining out with her friends during the girls' getaway in the Big Apple last week

But the divorce proceedings seemed a distant memory for Melinda this past week as she spent quality time with her eldest daughter and lived it up in the Big Apple.

In one photo posted by Jennifer, the 56-year-old philanthropist beamed as she walked along a sidewalk in the city with three of Jennifer's pals.

Melinda looked every inch the independent woman in a chic white blouse, black pants and wedges while she wore her hair tied back in a smooth ponytail.

Her daughter's three friends - Paige Bellissimo, Cate Guyman and Taylor Alexander - also appeared to be having a great time, with grins plastered on all their faces while Jennifer is thought to be behind the camera.

Bellissimo is the daughter of Mark Bellissimo - a real estate developer, prominent figure in the equine world and long-time business associate of Donald Trump.

Trump helped Mark launch a showjumping event at Mar-a-Lago before he ran for president.

Bellissimo is also the chairwoman of the Brooke USA Young Leaders Initiative, a philanthropic venture that supports young leaders in the equestrian industry.

Alexander and Jennifer are also ambassadors for the initiative. Jennifer is an equestrian, taking home a second place prize and third place prize at Old Salem Farm in North Salem, New York, back in May.

In another photo shared by Jennifer Wednesday, the girl gang was seen lounging in a suite in the trendy Greenwich Hotel in Manhattan, which Melinda was using as her base for her getaway.

The group kicked back on the sofas in their bathing robes and pajamas Saturday night for a slumber party style gettogether where, according to Jennifer's Instagram story, they watched Sex and the City.

'My idea of a perfect Saturday night (Watching sex and the city in pjs),' the 25-year-old wrote.

Jennifer appeared to take the two snaps of her mom and friends as she wasn't in them but joined in the photos in one picture in the collection, where she was seen dining out with her pals.

Absent from the sweet snaps of the trip was the presidential-grade security detail that Melinda was spotted with over the last week as she enjoyed her trip to the Big Apple.

Melinda was flanked by a staggering six bodyguards and three SUVs during a visit to the private club Zero Bond last Thursday, Page Six reported.

Melinda looked every inch the independent woman in a chic white blouse, dark pants and wedges last Thursday in NYC

Melinda was spotted leaving the Greenwich Hotel in Manhattan which she used as a base for her trip to the Big Apple

The 56-year-old philanthropist is seen on the streets of Manhattan last Thursday as she enjoyed quality time with her eldest daughter

Melinda smiles as she sported vibrant green shoes and a blouse outside the Greenwich Hotel in Manhattan on July 8

Jennifer wrote on Instagram that it was a 'joy' having her mom and friends pay her a visit

She is also said to have paid a visit to famed Tribeca comfort food spot Bubbys.

While Melinda enjoyed enjoyed her newly-single life with a girls' trip away, Bill was schmoozing with his billionaire boys at the Sun Valley conference in Idaho.

At the so-called billionaire summer camp running from July 6 to 10, the Microsoft founder opened up about the couple's pending divorce in an off the record question-and-answer session, according to the New York Post.

In the session, a tearful Bill reportedly admitted that the breakdown of the marriage was his fault.

'He fessed up to messing up,' one attendee told the Post.

'He basically referred to the fact that it [the divorce] was his fault.'

The source added: 'He did seem a bit emotional about it. He might have been on the verge of tears.'

Melinda, meanwhile, has not spoken publicly about their split, instead using one of her own first public appearances since the announcement to reveal the Gates Foundation will spend $2.1 billion on gender equality work.

Melinda appeared on stage at the Generation Equality Forum in Paris in June to call for the need to 'lift up women' and make one of the largest single commitments the foundation has made in more than two decades.

In the session, her wedding ring was notably absent from her ring finger.

Melinda with her three kids Jennifer (left), Rory (center) and Phoebe (right) in a Mother's Day snap posted by Jennifer

Melinda Gates appeared without her wedding ring at an event in Paris in June weeks after her divorce announcement from Bill

Bill's purported admission of fault over their break-up comes after he was forced to confess in May that he had an affair with a female Microsoft worker back in 2000 while he was married to Melinda.

A report from the Wall Street Journal claimed he had an 'inappropriate' sexual relationship with a female staff member in 2000.

Bill was CEO of the company at the time. It is not clear what position or level of seniority the employee was.

The affair stayed a secret until 2019 when the employee wrote a letter to the board detailing what had happened and allegedly asking that Melinda read it.

The company opened an investigation into the claims.

While the investigation was still ongoing in March 2020, Bill shocked the business world by announcing he was resigning from his position on the company board.

The same day Bill stood down from the board of Berkshire Hathaway, run by his friend Warren Buffet.

Last month, Buffet announced he was resigning from the board of the Gates Foundation.

Bill's spokeswoman confirmed he had an affair almost 20 years ago with a staff member and that the relationship ended 'amicably.' She denied the affair was connected in any way to his abrupt departure from the board.

Bill Gates is seen right alongside Chubb Limited CEO Evan Greenberg at the Allen & Company Sun Valley Conference in Sun Valley, Idaho last week

Meanwhile, two female Microsoft employees also claimed he asked them out on dates and was known to have pursued several women at the tech giant during his marriage.

The New York Times reported two separate instances where he asked female employees out on dates.

In one case, he is said to have asked out a Microsoft employee in 2006 after watching her make a presentation.

'If this makes you uncomfortable, pretend it never happened,' Gates emailed the employee, according to the Times.

A couple of years later, Bill then asked out an employee with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

The pair were in New York for a work trip, when he told her: 'I want to see you. Will you have dinner with me?'

The woman told the Times the approach made her feel uncomfortable, but she laughed it off.

There was no expectation that the women would suffer professional repercussions for spurning his advances, the Times reported.

Melinda and Bill seen after receiving the Commander of the Legion of Honor in Paris in 2017. The couple announced they were getting divorced in May

It's not clear whether Melinda was aware of her husband's advances on other women.

However, she was aware of and unhappy with the handling of sexual harassment allegations against Michael Larson, one of Bill's key lieutenants and the manager of his personal fortune, the report said.

In 2017, a person wrote to Bill and Melinda to complain that Larson was harassing a female staff member at a bicycle shop part-owned by a venture capital firm Rally Capital, owned by the former married couple.

The woman reached a settlement in 2018, signing a non-disclosure agreement and receiving a payout.

Bill's spokeswoman denied Gates ever mistreated employees in a statement to the Times.

However, Melinda was reportedly unhappy with the outcome and ordered an independent investigation.

According to the New York Times, Larson was placed on leave during the investigation but was reinstated and still looks after Gates' vast fortune.

Bill's friendship with billionaire pedophile Epstein has also increasingly come under the spotlight in recent weeks.

The two men's friendship began in 2011, three years after Epstein had pleaded guilty to soliciting prostitution from a minor.

There is no suggestion that Gates did anything wrong.
An elderly woman has been charged with murder in a supposed 'mercy killing' after allegedly shooting her best friend who didn't want to live on after a broken ankle left her unable to walk.

Sandra Jeannett Bonertz, 76, pleaded not guilty to a charge of first-degree murder on Tuesday in Bakersfield, California in connection with the death of her roommate, identified by friends only as 'Winnie'.

The unusual killing came to light on Sunday at the Pinewood Glen Retirement Community, where police were called for a welfare check on one of the residents.

Cops say that when they arrived, they found a woman with massive injuries, and that Bonertz was still clutching the suspected murder weapon.

Sandra Jeannett Bonertz, 76, pleaded not guilty to a charge of first-degree murder on Tuesday in Bakersfield, California in connection with the death of her roommate

The unusual killing came to light on Sunday at the Pinewood Glen Retirement Community, where police were called for a welfare check on one of the residents

Police say the Bonertz handed over the weapon without incident and cooperated with the cops, admitting that she had assaulted her roommate the previous evening.

At arraignment on Tuesday, Bonertz appeared in a grey jail smock, leg irons and handcuffs, with a bandage taped on the inside of her right wrist, according to the Bakersfield Californian.

When asked to enter her plea, Bonertz did not respond until a bailiff gave her a portable headset to help her hear the proceedings.

Judge Michael Bush ordered her held without bail due to the seriousness of the crime.

A close friend of both Bonertz and Winnie said that she believed the killing was at Winnie's request, speaking to reporters outside the courthouse.

'They were the dearest of friends, they did everything for each other, they never fought. I know there was no anger or anything involved like that,' said Cheryl Sperry, who said she had known both women for nearly 80 years, according to KGET-TV.

'I do believe that Winnie begged her to kill her. She had said that on many occasions in front of me, if I ever can't walk please kill me,' friend Cheryl Perry told local news outlets

When asked to enter her plea, Bonertz did not respond until a bailiff gave her a portable headset to help her hear the proceedings

'I do believe that Winnie begged her to kill her. She had said that on many occasions in front of me, if I ever can't walk please kill me,' Sperry said.

'And Winnie was in a car accident a month ago, Winnie and Sandy both, and Winnie broke her ankle and she was unable to walk and she was unable to get into a doctor,' she continued, according to Bakersfield Now.

'It takes three months to get into a doctor these days and she was completely miserable. I talked to them Thursday, she was depressed and distraught, just down in the dumps. I don't believe there was any malice or anything like that,' Sperry said.

The Kern County Coroner's office has not yet released the victim's identity, and Sperry identified her only as Winnie. Public records list an 83-year-old woman named Winnie as living with Bonertz.

The killing occurred at the Pinewood Glen Retirement Community, an independent living center for seniors age 55 and older.

The killing occurred at the Pinewood Glen Retirement Community, an independent living center for seniors age 55 and older

The Pinewood Glen Retirement Community website describes it as an independent living center for seniors age 55 and older.

The complex is operated by the Kern County Housing Authority, which issued a statement saying: 'It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of a resident at Pinewood Glen on Sunday.'

'According to police, this was an instance of domestic violence. Pinewood Glen has a strict policy prohibiting weapons at the property,' the statement added.

Bonertz is currently being held without bail is due back in court August 9. It was not immediately clear whether she had an attorney to speak on her behalf.
Tyler Rios, 27, is charged with the first-degree murder of his ex-girlfriend, Yasemin Uyar, after previously being charged with kidnapping their two-year-old son

A New Jersey man has been charged with the murder of his ex-girlfriend after he allegedly kidnapped their two-year-old son and dumped her body in a wooded area in Tennessee.

Tyler Rios, 27, was charged Wednesday afternoon with the first-degree murder of Yasemin Uyar, 24, Union County Prosecutor William Daniel and Rahway Police Director Jonathan Parham said.

They allege he killed Uyar on July 8 in New Jersey before dumping her body in a duffle bag next to a campground in Tennessee.

Rios was previously charged with kidnapping, after fleeing the state with the couple's two-year-old son, Sebastian.

The mother and son were reported missing from their Rahway home on July 9, when Sebastian did not show up to his daycare and Uyar did not arrive for her scheduled work shift.

Sebastian was found unharmed with Rios in Monterrey, Tennessee, the next day, and Uyar's body was found in a wooded area nearby a few hours later.

Rios is now being held in custody in Tennessee pending extradition to New Jersey.

Prosecutors allege Rios killed Uyar (pictured) and hid her body in a duffle bag next to a campground in Tennessee

Their son, Sebastian Rios, was found unharmed near the campground just hours before authorities discovered his mother's body last week

According to court documents obtained by NJ.com, authorities were able to locate Rios after he made two phone calls to people, telling them that he had a dead body in his car.

He allegedly called a relative on July 9 and told them he had a dead body in the car, who the person assumed was Uyar, with whom he had a tumultuous relationship.

A female relative contacted the Highland Park Police Department in New Jersey on July 9 after Rios called her and said he had a dead body in his car. She presumed the body belonged to Uyar, with whom he had a tumultuous relationship.

Police also took a statement from another person who said Rios admitted to having Sebastian in his custody, and confessed to killing Uyar, whose body he left in his car for days, according to court filings.

After Rios had the 45-minute phone conversation with the person, who NJ.com says was not named in the court documents, police were able to track his location to a Bethel Inn and Suites in Monterey, Tennessee.

The local sheriff's department responded to the motel and found Uyar's vehicle in the parking lot, with the license plate discarded nearby.

When the officers took Rios into custody, the court documents allege, Uyar's debit card was in the room.

He then allegedly led investigators to where he had disposed of Uyar's body - 2,300 feet from the motel, next to a campground.

She was found half naked in a duffel bag, NJ.com reported.

An autopsy later revealed that the cause of death was strangulation and blunt force trauma.

Cops are pictured outside of a home in New Jersey after an Amber Alert was issued for the then-missing boy

Sebastian and his mother were last seen in their Rahway home on July 8

Police were able to track Rios to a Bethel Inn and Suites motel in Monterrey, Tennessee, where he was arrested on July 10

Uyar and Sebastian were last seen together on July 8, one day before a widespread Amber Alert was issued for the two-year-old.

Members of the Rahway Police Department conducted a welfare check for Uyar and her toddler son at her home on July 9, they reported, but found nobody inside.

A witness allegedly told police he saw Rios outside of Uyars Rahway apartment around midnight the night of her disappearance.

She was barefoot in a white tank top and jean shorts, and appeared to be angrily staring at the residence, the witness told police.

Uyar was reportedly in a new relationship at the time of her death, according to NJ.com.

It is unclear what transpired next, but police were able to locate Rios through one of the phone calls he made.

At 3am on July 10, officers burst into Rios motel room in Tennessee and arrested him.

Rios and Uyar had reportedly been in a relationship since her freshman year at Highland Park High School, where Rios was a senior. Uyar had been dating someone else at the time of her death, according to court documents obtained by NJ.com

Karen Uyar, Yasemin's mother, has alleged that Rios was abusive to her daughter

Uyar and Rios started dating when she was a freshman at Highland Park High School in New Jersey and he was a senior, Uyar's mother, Karen, said at a news conference earlier this week.

But their relationship soon turned toxic, Karen said, alleging Rios abused Uyar in recent years.

Previous court documents obtained by DailyMail.com show Rios was charged with aggravated assault and strangulation of a domestic violence victim in 2018, as well as theft.

Rios took a plea deal signed in February 2020 in which he was convicted of the domestic violence assault charge but the theft and strangulation charges were dismissed.

The document shows that the court had found 'aggravating factors' that Rios was at risk of committing 'another offense.'

He was sentenced to serve 180 days in jail and three years on probation, and was ordered to attend anger management counseling.

The court also ordered him to have no contact with the victim, while noting that he already had restraining orders against him issued by Family Court.

The victim was not named in the court documents but the dates of the legal troubles align with a post Karen made to Facebook in 2019 in which she called Rios an 'alcoholic, abusive monster.'

She detailed that alleged abuse in a 2019 Facebook post, expressing her fear for her daughter

Karen Uyar had posted screenshots showing that Rios had been charged with crimes in Arizona, and included screenshots of his mugshot

Karen Uyar detailed how Yasemin had 'become involved' with Rios several years before the post was made in 2019.

'His drunken rages have caused him to choke my daughter till she passed out. Leaving her on the floor, he stole her car and fled,' Karen Uyar wrote.

She wrote how Rios had 'given her more black and blues than I can count' and 'continuously pounced on her self esteem with verbal and emotional abuse almost as much as the physical abuse.'

'He would tell her she was crazy and f**ked up and when she would beg to go for help he would walk out for hours and not help/respond to her. Telling her to 'toughen up',' Karen Uyar wrote.

The concerned grandmother wrote that her daughter suffered from post-partum depression that included insomnia after her son was born.

'He would leave for hours and not answer her. Take the baby and tell her she wasn't a good mother. Tell her how weak and useless she was. It was heartbreaking to see how he treated her. Yet I needed leaving him to be HER CHOICE,' Uyar wrote.

Court records reviewed by DailyMail.com show Rios was charged with aggravated assault and strangulation of a domestic violence victim in 2018, as well as theft

Karen added that she has feared she would receive phone calls telling her that her daughter is in a hospital or dead.

The concerned grandmother said that, at the time, Rios' criminal history extended across a number of states including: New York, New Jersey, Mississippi and Georgia.

Yasemin 'finally got the strength to leave' in August 2019 - the results of a 'combined effort' to get her and Sebastian into a hotel, where she spent two 'terrifying days' worried that Rios would find her, the grandmother alleged.

'This enraged him. He stalked her. Through their phones, friends, social media. Any way he could find,' Karen Uyar wrote.

At some point, Rios - now seemingly living in Phoenix, Arizona - allegedly convinced Yasemin to let him see their son.

Karen wrote that Rios was drinking and 'degrading' on 'day one' of her arriving in Arizona with the young boy.

Little Sebastian Rios is pictured in a photo

She said she received an alarming text from her daughter around 8 p.m. on October 22, 2019 telling her to 'call 911' and 'give address.'

The grandmother, remembering that Rios had allegedly been arrested weeks prior for firing a gun in city limits, worried that her daughter and grandson were dead.

Rios finally let Yasemin leave the apartment more than two hours after the call, Karen Uyar alleged in the Facebook post.

But before doing so, he allegedly cut up all of Yasemin and Sebastian's identification documents including the little boy's birth certificate, Yasemin's bank cards and social security cards, and her driver's license.

'I love you too much to let you leave' Rios said at the time, the grandmother alleged.

She added: 'I need people to see this alcoholic, abusive monster for who he is.'

Karen's post included screenshots of the Maricopa County Sheriffs Office inmate search database, showing that Rios had been hit with charges including assault and unlawful imprisonment.

Yasemin's sister Marissa told NJ.com that Rios recently broke into her sister's home, and police officers were called.

Before Yasemin's disappearance, she 'was pretty busy packing and trying to get herself together' in order to move and once again get away from Rios.

'Man I just want him to let at least my nephew go. I mean I want my sister to come home, but, I mean, something's got to give, you know?' she told the outlet.

Two online fundraisers have now been set up to support the family, raising more than $30,000 in just four days.
The lawyers for Fotis Dulos, the Connecticut man accused of murder after his estranged wife, Jennifer Dulos vanished, will be banned from discussing the high-profile case for 40 years.

According to probate court settlements, his attorneys must also return to his estate more than half the $250,000 retainer Dulos gave them shortly before killing himself just weeks after being charged with his wife's murder.

Probate Judge Evelyn Daly approved the unusual non-disclosure settlements on Tuesday, ending lawsuits filed against criminal defense lawyers Norman Pattis and Kevin Smith, Hearst Connecticut Media reports.

A trustee for Jennifer Dulos' family sued the lawyers claiming they improperly kept the retainer.

It is not clear why the attorneys were banned from speaking about the case.

Jennifer Dulos vanished in May 2019 after dropping the estranged couple's five children off at school in New Canaan where she was living - a case that drew international news coverage and led to TV documentaries and a movie.

Fotis Dulos' attorneys, Norm Pattis (left) and Kevin Smith (right), have been banned from discussing the high-profile case for 40 years, according to probate court settlements

Her body still hasn't been found despite extensive searches by authorities.

Christopher Hug, a lawyer for Fotis' estate, negotiated the probate court settlement and said her family hopes to avoid more publicity.

Pattis once suggested she may have staged her disappearance to frame Fotis Dulos, similar to the plot of Gone Girl, a novel made into a movie.

'The heirs of the estate were very concerned about confidentiality,' Hug told the probate judge on Tuesday.

Pattis declined to comment on the settlement.

The 40-year gag order is unusual for probate cases, according to former state Probate Judge J. David Morrissey.

The agreement settled lawsuits filed against the Pattis & Smith firm by her family and Fotis Dulos' estate.

It also calls for the firm to return $137,000 of the $250,000 retainer Fotis Dulos paid after he was charged with murder.

Jennifer Dulos vanished in May 2019 after dropping the estranged couple's five children off at school in New Canaan where she was living. Fotis Dulos denied having anything to do with his estranged wife's disappearance

Murder conspiracy charges remain pending against Michelle Troconis, Fotis' former girlfriend, and Fotis' attorney friend Kent Mawhinney. Police accuse them of helping to cover up the killing

TIMELINE OF THE FOTIS DULOS CASE 2004: Fotis Dulos and Jennifer Farber get married. It is his second marriage In the same year, her father Hilliard starts loaning him money for his property business, Fore Group. 2015: Fotis and Michelle Troconis start taking trips he paid for which he claimed were for business. They later start an affair. January 2017: Hilliard Farber dies March 2017: Gloria Farber takes over his estate June 2017: Jennifer files for divorce, saying she is afraid of her husband February 2018: Gloria Farber sues Fotis Dulos for unpaid loans May 24 2019: Jennifer vanishes after dropping off her five children at school June 2019: Fotis and Michelle Troconis are arrested for evidence tampering Gloria Farber files an order for custody of the children. House in Avon is briefly searched but not extensively. August 2019: Troconis 'turns' on Dulos in police interviews, admits she lied when she said she had an alibi for him September 2019: Fotis is arrested again for evidence tampering January 2020: Dulos and Troconis are charged with murder January 28 2020: Dulos is found unresponsive at his Farmington home January 30 2020: Fotis dies in hospital June 11: Police search house in Avon, CT January 19- 20 2021: Police returned to Farmington, CT and use excavator to search yard Advertisement

The disappearance came amid contentious divorce and child custody court proceedings.

Police accused Fotis Dulos of attacking her in her garage when she returned from the school and driving off with her body. He was accused of plotting against Jennifer Dulos with the help of his then-girlfriend, Michelle Troconis.

Authorities have previously said they don't believe Dulos could have survived the 'serious physical attack' without urgent medical attention.

Early in the investigation, police said they have surveillance video allegedly showing Fotis in a pickup truck with Troconis disposing bags of items, some of which were later recovered and found to be stained with her blood.

They also had traffic and school bus camera footage of a man they believed was Fotis Dulos driving a pickup to New Canaan on the morning she disappeared; surveillance video of Fotis Dulos getting the truck washed and detailed days after she vanished; and evidence that her DNA was found on the truck's passenger seat.

He was arrested for evidence tampering before being charged with murder in January 2020.

He died in a hospital just weeks later after being found unresponsive at his home following a suicide attempt. He denied having anything to do with Jennifer's disappearance.

Murder conspiracy charges remain pending against Michelle Troconis, Fotis' former girlfriend, and Fotis' attorney friend Kent Mawhinney.

Police accuse them of helping to cover up the killing.

Both have pleaded not guilty.

Troconis' family said as recently as two months ago that she is being treated unfairly in the case.

'Michelle is an amazing woman, mother, daughter, sister, and friend, who has been treated unfairly, contrary to what the American Justice System is supposed to be about: 'With freedom and justice for all!',' they said in a statement.

'Michelle has been treated as if she were guilty from day one, with police, investigators, the media, and members of the public ignoring the presumption of innocence that the United States Constitution claims to offer to all its citizens.'
Pictured: Lisa Daugherty is charged with taking money from a former resident at Oak Landing Assisted Living in Attalla, Alabama

A former caretaker at an Alabama assisted living facility was charged with stealing $9 million from an elderly woman who lived at the home, according to federal authorities.

Lisa Daugherty was arrested Wednesday and charged with two counts of financial exploitation of the elderly, after an investigation by the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit found she took money from a former resident at Oak Landing Assisted Living in Attalla, Alabama.

The 54-year-old former unit coordinator is accused of stealing $8 million in cash and another $1 million in real estate from the same victim said state Attorney General Steve Marshall.

The victim, who was not publicly named, was described as an elderly woman, according to the New York Post.

Meanwhile, Daugherty's daughter, Brooke Crawford, 35, as well as Daugherty's former partner Jerenita Johnson, 52, also are facing charges of first-degree receiving stolen property totaling $600,000.

The Attalla native was still in custody as of Thursday with a $1 million bond, and could receive two to 20 years in prison as well as a $60,000 fine if found guilty.

The Post reports that both her daughter and Johnson also face up to 20 years in prison and $30,000 in fines if convicted, with both being held on a $5,000 bond. It's unclear whether Crawford or Johnson had posted bail as of Thursday afternoon.

Al.com reports that court records show Daugherty was indicted federally in 2019 for embezzling money from a resident at the private assisted living facility, however that case was eventually dismissed.

Oak Landing Assisted Living in Attalla, Alabama (pictured), where Daugherty used to work as a caretaker. The 54-year-old was charged with stealing $9 million from an elderly resident

In that case, Daugherty was accused of stealing money after obtaining power of attorney over the victim to fund a luxurious lifestyle, including multiple vacation homes.

She then transferred the elderly's victims assets over to her name beginning in January 2017, using the funds to purchase a home, cars and daily living expenses, according to authorities.

It is not clear whether the 2019 case involved the same victim or scheme as Daugherty's current charges.

'This case highlights the extent that some individuals will go to financially exploit those who are among the most vulnerable in our community,' Secret Service Special Agent in Charge Patrick Davis said in a 2019 statement.
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Police arrested Congressional Black Caucus chair Joyce Beatty on Thursday afternoon after she led pro-voting rights protesters into a Senate office building.

Officers moved in as Beatty, 71, and a handful of other activists, including Women's March co-founders Linda Sarsour and Tamika Mallory, chanted, 'Fight for justice,' and, 'End the filibuster.'

Capitol Police later said they had arrested nine people for 'demonstrating in a prohibited area on Capitol Grounds.'

Beatty said her arrest was just the start.

'I stand in solidarity with Black women and allies across the country in defense of our constitutional right to vote,' she said in a statement.

'We have come too far and fought too hard to see everything systematically dismantled and restricted by those who wish to silence us.

Be assured that this is just the beginning. This is our Power, our message.

Rep Joyce Beatty, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, has her hands zip-tied behind her back while she continues to shout pro-voting rights slogans in the atrium of the Hart Senate Office Building in Capitol Hill

Beatty is led away as Capitol Police arrest nine protesters in the Hart Senate Office building. 'We will fight for freedom. We will fight for our right to vote,' she wrote before being arrested

Before being arrested the protesters chanted, 'Fight for justice,' and 'End the filibuster'

The protesters linked arms and chanted as police officers stood by ready to make their move

U.S. Capitol Police said they warned the protesters three times to end their demonstration or face arrest

It comes as voting rights disputes divide the country between left and right: Republicans are devising tighter restrictions, with ID requirements and limited postal, while former President Trump continues to blame fraud for his defeat, while Democrats see an attempt to suppress turnout and make it harder for minorities to vote.

Beatty laid out her stance in a string of tweets before she was arrested.

'Black women are demanding OUR right to vote! Were marching to the Senate to send a strong message,' she posted before setting off.

Then at 3:42pm she added: 'We will not be turned around. We will keep walking.'

'We will fight for freedom. We will fight for our right to vote!'

About 20 Black activists joined lawmakers for the protest.

Her office earlier said the event was in protest at new laws restricting voting across the country, as well as Republican refusal to consider drafting federal legislation to ensure equal rights and access to the ballot box.

'Fifty-six years after the passage of the Voting Rights Act, Americans right to vote is still under attack as state legislatures work overtime to dilute our power,' she said in a statement.

'So, as chair of the Congressional Black Caucus - but more importantly as a Black woman - I join with the chorus of individuals demanding justice, change, and the guarantee that my vote counts just like everybody elses vote counts.'

Last week President Joe Biden condemned attempts by Republican-controlled states to change voting laws, describing them as a 'threat to democracy.'

'This is election subversion,' he said at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia.

'It is the most dangerous threat to voting in the integrity of free and fair elections in our history.'

He urged Congress to pass the For the People Act, which bans partisan gerrymandering, makes voting easier and tries to make political donations more transparent.

But Democrats argue that the Senate filibuster - which requires at least a 60-vote majority - effectively ties their hands in passing legislation that would protect voting rights in the face of attacks by Republican states.

The nationwide split was highlighted this week when Texas Democrats fled the state to deprive Republicans of a quorum, halting progress of a bill they say would restrict voting.

The protesters took aim at Senate Republicans and the filibuster, which they say is preventing passage of federal voter protections that would head off states from imposing restrictions

Civil rights activist and Women's March co-founder Linda Sarsour is led away by a police officer after being arrested

Sarsour was among 20 black women civil rights leaders and lawmakers who made the noisy protest against the filibuster and new laws tightening restrictions on voting

U.S. Capitol Police said they arrested two men and nine women during the disturbance. 'After officers arrived on the scene, they warned the demonstrators three times to stop,' police said in a statement

Their secret flit prompted Governor Greg Abbott to accuse Biden of 'spreading misinformation' as he defended laws he said would expand early voting hours.

'Biden has a pattern of spreading misinformation & he's at it again today,' he said in a tweet.

'The [Texas Legislature] is passing a law that expands early voting hours & prevents mail-in ballot fraud. Texas is making it easier to vote & harder to cheat.

The Texas Senate bill would allow voting from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.  an increase of three hours on weekdays and 10 hours on Sundays  and would lower the population threshold from 100,000 to 30,000 for counties to open the polling booths for at least 12 hours in the week before Election Day.

Mail voters would also be asked to verify their identities with a state ID number or the last four digits of their Social Security number in a bid to get rid of signature verification that accounts for a higher number of rejected ballots.

The Texas state senate approved its version of the election reform bill on Tuesday, but the legislation then stalled because the absence of House Democrats meant the two-thirds quorum of of lawmakers could not be achieved.

The Texas Democrats say they will stay in Washington D.C. until the current session of the state legislature ends, while Abbott said he will keep calling sessions until the legislation passes.

Protesters had their hands zip-tied before being led away. Voting rights are dividing the country along left-right lines

Protesters wore 'Protect our voting rights' T-shirts as they made their point in the atrium of the Hart Senate Office Building

That leaves a long hot summer of voting rights protests.

Among the organizers of Thursday's protests were Tamika Mallory, founder of Unit Freedom, and Dr. Johnetta Cole, chair of the National Council of Negro Women.

Before entering the Hart Senate office building, LaTosha Brown, cofounder of Black Voters Matter, said it was wrong that a small group of people in the Senate could impose their will on voters.

'Every day there are decisions being made in this place that are impacting our children, that are impacting our families, that are impacting our community, and you have a responsibility to stand for what it is you believe in,' she told the Black News Channel.

In a statement on Thursday, Capitol Police said: 'This afternoon, nine people were arrested for demonstrating in a prohibited area on Capitol Grounds.

'At approximately 3:30pm, the United States Capitol Police responded to the Atrium in the Hart Senate Office Building for reports of illegal demonstration activity.

'After officers arrived on the scene, they warned the demonstrators three times to stop. Those who refused were arrested for D.C. Code 22-1307.'

The demonstration was held two days before the one-year anniversary of the death of veteran civil rights campaigner Rep. John Lewis.

After her arrest, Beatty reprised one of his most famous expressions by tweeting simply '#goodtrouble.'
A TikTok comedian who has correctly guessed the exact number of new Covid-19 cases in New South Wales each day has claimed the state will record another 97 local cases on Friday.

Western Sydney social media star Jon-Bernard Kairouz has gathered more than 93,000 followers on TikTok by guessing how many new cases there would be each day - hours before NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian's 11am press conferences.

Kairouz - who jokingly claims to use complex mathematical equations and graphs to work out the daily figure - correctly guessed there would be 65 new cases on Thursday.

He also predicted there would be 97 cases on Wednesday and confidently forecast the same number of cases again for Friday in a video shared to the platform on Thursday night.

Western Sydney social media star Jon-Bernard Kairouz - who has correctly guessed how many new Covid-19 cases there would be in New South Wales over the past two days - has claimed there will be 97 additional infections on Friday (left)

'There will be 97 cases tomorrow,' he told viewers, having seconds earlier tweaked his calculations on a whiteboard and abandoned his prediction of 91 new infections.

He was so confident in his prediction he told one fan: 'If I'm wrong I'll quit'.

The TikTok star's whiteboard calculations also predicted Friday's count would include 36 people who were out in the community while still infectious.

'We're staying in this lockdown forever,' one commenter wrote underneath the video.

Kairouz also predicted Sydney's lockdown would be over by the end of July when asked by a viewer in the comments: 'if you're so good calculate the length of this lockdown.'

Others came to the conclusion Kairouz must have an inside source at NSW Health.

'It's odd you always upload late at night,' one wrote - noting how he posted after health officials confirmed the latest cases at 8pm on Thursday night.

'We're staying in this lockdown forever,' one commenter wrote underneath the video, while others came to the conclusion Kairouz had an inside source at NSW Health

Kairouz also predicted Sydney's lockdown would be over by the end of July when asked by a viewer in the comments: 'if you're so good calculate the length of this lockdown'

'He gets insider info,' another said.

Kairouz made his prediction for Thursday late on Wednesday night.

'Number of new cases in Sydney, Gladdy I've got you again,' he says in the clip.

'If we just carry the one here, here's 28 infectious cases in Sydney, plus the diameter of Fairfield, divided by the population of Sydney. There will be 65 new cases tomorrow - you can follow me when I'm right.'

Jon-Bernard Kairouz, a comedian from western Sydney, has been calling the number of new cases each day and accruing a large social media following as a result

Kairouz nailed the number, with Premier Gladys Berejiklian announcing 65 cases in her Thursday morning press conference.

His accuracy calling numbers so far has seen Australians in other states asking for his expertise.

'Can you let us know Melbourne numbers for tomorrow?' one woman asked, to which Kairouz replied 'Dan's a different beast'.

'Never been so excited to find out the number of COVID cases every day,' a woman commented.

'Jumping on Sportsbet now!' another said.

Ms Berejiklian said the drop in locally-acquired infections - down from 97 new cases on Wednesday - was a promising sign authorities may be turning the tide on the state's highly-contagious outbreak of the Delta variant.

There are now 73 patients across the state in hospital suffering from Covid-19 (up two from Wednesday) and 19 in intensive care (down one from Wednesday).

However, there are now five Covid-19 patients state-wide - compared to four on Wednesday - who need a ventilator to breathe.

Of the 65 new cases recorded in the 24 hours to 8pm on Wednesday night, 46 were detected in south-west Sydney and eight were found in the city's south-east.

There were 97 coronavirus cases recorded overnight in New South Wales as the state's outbreak continues to grow

Sydney is nearing the end of a third week of a strict stay-at-home lockdown, which was on Wednesday extended until at least July 30 to stem the spread of the virus.

The state leader said there were still far too many cases who weren't already self-isolating at home when they tested positive and were contagious in the community.

'Based on the fact we had 28 people infectious in the community in the last 24 hours, I am predicting that we will have higher case numbers on Friday,' she said.

Ms Berejiklian has said repeatedly that figure would have to reach zero before she considers easing restrictions in Greater Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour.
A black staffer for Democrat Rep. Brad Schneider has sued his office, claiming her white supervisor told her to 'get a rope and put it around her neck and created' and created a 'hostile work environment'.

Patrice Campbell, the constituent services representative for the congressman from Illinois, filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia saying supervisor Karyn Davidman made the comment about 'lynching', and reporting the problem resulted in her being 'pigeon-holed'.

The lawsuit seen by DailyMail.com claims Davidman was relaying a story to Campbell, the office's only black employee, about lanyards and securing COVID face masks in March.

'You are going to have to get a rope and put it around your neck,' Davidman said, according to the suit.

A black staffer for Democrat Rep. Brad Schneider has sued his office, claiming supervisor Karyn Davidman told her to 'get a rope and put it around her neck and created' and created a 'hostile work environment

Davidman then allegedly told the same story on a Microsoft Teams meeting the following day and said while 'laughing hysterically': 'You should have seen your face when I told that story!'

Davidman was given a week of paid administrative leave after the March incidents and was told she would no longer supervise Campbell, according to the suit.

But Davidman still assigned her work anyway, Campbell said in the lawsuit. Her director was made an intermediary.

Schneider spokesperson Matt Fried told DailyMail.com in a statement: 'It is against office policy to discuss specific details about internal personnel matters.

'To be clear, the Office took prompt and appropriate corrective action to address Ms. Campbells initial complaint.

'However, the federal lawsuit filed today by Ms. Campbell does not provide a complete or accurate representation of the issues or her treatment by any office personnel.

'There is another side to the story. The Office of Rep. Brad Schneider is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to his staff members without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, religion, disability, genetic information, or military status.

'Rep. Schneider respects the right of Congressional employees to pursue remedies created by the Congressional Accountability Act.

'The Office looks forward to responding to Plaintiff's allegations in Federal Court at the appropriate time and is confident that it will be exonerated in due course once all the facts are known,' Fried added.

The lawsuit seen by DailyMail.com claims Davidman (pictured) was relaying a story about to Campbell, the office's only black employee, about lanyards and securing COVID face masks in March. 'You are going to have to get a rope and put it around your neck,' Davidman said, according to the suit

The lawsuit goes on to state that Campbell spoke to District Director Gregory Claus and Chief of Staff Casey O'Shea to ask what action would be taken to Davidman's 'hostile discriminatory conduct'.

Campbell says that as a result her work was confined to 'postal service and tax issues' to reduce her interaction with Davidman and she saw that as a 'punishment'.

She believed it would 'pigeon-hole her' and 'inhibit her chances of advancing in the office, the lawsuit continues.

Even though Campbell told O'Shea she was upset with the response, he allegedly turned the tables on her and said 'pivot and get back to work'.

'On March 13, 2021, after reflecting on Davidmans cruel, purposeful, and targeted behavior on March 3 and 4, [Campbell] emailed Chief of Staff OShea and District Director Claus to share additional concerns about Davidmans treatment of people of color both in and outside of the office' the suit states.

Campbell claimed that Davidman showed 'disparate treatment of subordinate employees of color, complaints from a local commissioner who believes she is racist and Davidman's constant refusal to open cases on behalf of black constituents who request the office's assistance'.

She also accused Schneider's office of launching 'no investigation' into the misconduct and says she 'disintegrated emotionally' because of the 'hostile work environment'.
Factories are on the verge of shutting and hospitals are scrapping operations because so many workers are having to self isolate.

Nearly 900,000 alerts telling people to quarantine were issued in the first week of this month following contact with a coronavirus victim.

The 'pingdemic' is causing chaos for families and firms, prompting business leaders to demand changes on the NHS Covid-19 app to avoid a 'self-inflicted economic wound'.

NHS chiefs warned the system was making it 'increasingly difficult' to deliver routine care.

There was further anger at heavy-handed enforcement of test and trace rules after police in a riot van called on a girl of 12 to ensure she was self-isolating after a positive swab.

Factories are on the verge of shutting and hospitals are scrapping operations because so many workers are having to self isolate. Pictured:

The chief executive of Rolls-Royce, Torsten Muller-Otvos (left), said the car maker was on the edge of a critical situation while Chris Hopson (right), chief executive of NHS Providers, added that trust leaders 'continued to share serious concerns about rising levels of staff isolation'

Kathryn Crook said officers called twice at her home in Manchester leaving her daughter Charlotte petrified. She added: 'She has been in complete meltdown, thinking she was going to get arrested at any moment.'

Another 48,553 Covid cases were reported yesterday, the highest total since January, with 63 more deaths.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid warned daily Covid infections were likely to top 100,000 after restrictions are lifted on Monday. That could force around half a million a day to self-isolate.

The chief executive of Rolls-Royce said the car maker was on the 'edge of a critical situation' and a complete shutdown could not be ruled out. 'Cases have gone through the roof and it is causing havoc,' Torsten Muller-Otvos told the Daily Telegraph.

The UK's largest car factory, the Nissan plant in Sunderland, has been cancelling shifts and 'hundreds' of staff are self-isolating. A major engine supplier said it was so far behind on orders it was considering moving work permanently to China.

The National Care Association said care homes had 'real staffing issues' because of the app, while in Liverpool so many bin men are self-isolating that the council has told households their rubbish will not be collected until August.

Bin rounds were also missed this week in Sutton Coldfield because of outbreaks of Covid.

Some hospital trusts have had up to 500 staff isolating at a time, forcing them to close beds and cancel operations.

In retail and hospitality a third of staff are off self-isolating in the worst hit areas, forcing thousands of venues to shut.

In other developments:

O fficial figures revealed that as few as 30 per cent of adults have been double-jabbed in inner cities;

Tesco and John Lewis will join the police and NHS in retaining Covid safeguards, including face masks, after most official restrictions end on Monday;

Boris Johnson hinted guidance on wearing masks could run into next year;

Ministers were urged to get a grip on the Covid travel test fiasco that has led to lengthy delays and appalling service.

Individuals can be pinged by the NHS Covid app and told to self-isolate for ten days after coming into contact with an infected person. Alternatively they can be ordered to self-isolate in a phone call from NHS Test and Trace.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid warned daily Covid infections were likely to top 100,000 after restrictions are lifted on Monday

Officers visited the home of Kathryn Crook in Middleton, Greater Manchester, to check that Charlotte (above together), 12, was adhering to Covid guidance after catching the virus

A record 530,126 were pinged by the NHS app last week in England and Wales  a weekly increase of 46 per cent, figures released yesterday showed.

Another 336,056 were reached by NHS contact tracers, an increase of a third on the previous week. A total of 866,182 self-isolation alerts were sent out.

NHS Covid app (pictured) will not be made less sensitive for weeks, reports say

Quarantine rules will be changed from August 16 to exempt those who are double-vaccinated, but the British Chambers of Commerce has demanded this is brought forward to Monday.

Plans to make the NHS Covid app less sensitive, meaning fewer people would be pinged, have been delayed as concerns mount over rising infection rates.

Former Conservative Party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith said: 'The self-isolation policy is causing chaos in every area of British life resulting in a lockdown in everything but name. Ministers must get a grip and make urgent changes or a tsunami of pings will literally shut this country and its economy down.'

Stephen Phipson, chief executive of Make UK, which represents the manufacturing sector, said: 'The need to isolate, even without symptoms, is now a serious issue and impacting on production.

'It has escalated significantly over the last week. There is now an urgent priority for the Government to bring forward the August date.'

NHS England data showed a record 520,000 alerts were sent by the app last week, telling people they had been in close contact with someone who tested positive

A record number of positive tests were also linked to the app last week, data showed. There were 86,000 cases logged with the app, up 40 per cent from 61,000 the previous week

And the number of alerts sent out in relation to venues also more than doubled in seven days

Public Health England data showed 10,267 more young men than women were infected over the last two weeks, with the gender gap having widened since the tournament kicked off

Chris Hopson, of NHS Providers, said: 'Trust leaders continue to share serious concerns about rising levels of staff isolation, which are now significantly impacting on their ability to deliver care.'

Thousands of doctors and nurses, almost all of whom have been double-jabbed, are off work after being pinged.

Infection rates are highest in the North East of England, forcing some trusts to allow workers to avoid self-isolation by taking rapid lateral flow tests.

Richard Walker, managing director of Iceland supermarkets, said: 'Just as we thought the worst was over, Covid threatens to take its biggest toll yet on the economy, thanks to the broken test and trace system.'

A Government source acknowledged the crisis was proving 'very difficult' for business but said self-isolation was vital in preventing cases spiralling even further out of control.
To the untrained eye, its not much to look at. You might glance at this tiny scrap of paper, measuring just 29mm by 26mm, and wonder what all the fuss is about.

It has a deep magenta background almost the colour of beetroot. Indeed, it was once dismissed as a red smudge.

Look closely and youll just make out some faded text, along with a signature which looks as if it might have been scribbled with a felt-tip pen.

Dont understand the excitement? You are clearly not a philatelist.

Because this is the Mona Lisa of the stamp-collecting world - the only known surviving example of a British Guiana 1c Magenta.

And the really exciting news for UK collectors is that the worlds rarest stamp will soon be on display in London, at the headquarters of dealer Stanley Gibbons, which recently paid $8.3 million (6.2 million) for it at an auction in New York.

The worlds rarest stamp will soon be on display in London, at the headquarters of dealer Stanley Gibbons, which recently paid $8.3 million (6.2 million) for it at an auction in New York

Thats almost a bargain compared with the $9.5million paid for it by shoe designer Stuart Weitzman in 2014, but it still means the stamp is the most valuable item by weight ever made.

At about one-thousandth of an ounce, this means  and youve probably done the arithmetic already  that its value per ounce is an astonishing $8.3billion.

How does that compare? Pariss Louvre museum would never sell Leonardo da Vincis Mona Lisa, but an insurer quoted $100 million for it in the early 1960s.

That would now make it worth about $800 million today - though its true value may well be even higher.

We do know the value of other works of art, though.

The worlds most expensive painting is currently the Salvator Mundi, a portrait of Christ, also by Leonardo which sold for $450 million in 2017, though questions persist about its provenance.

Gold, by the way, is currently selling at a measly 1,300 per ounce. Hardly worth the bother, really.

Difficult to believe, but all these assets are easily outstripped by a tiny scrap of paper, which owes its existence to an administrative error.

In 1856 Edward Dalton was postmaster of British Guiana, a colony in South America that is now independent Guyana. He was expecting a consignment of 50,000 stamps from Great Britain, but only 5,000 arrived. Perhaps the rest were sent second-class.

Mr Dalton was clearly a man of action. To keep the mail moving, he decided to issue a temporary set of stamps, designed and printed by the publisher of the countrys Royal Gazette newspaper.

The Gazette stuck largely to the design of the original stamp, but added an illustration of a ship and the Latin motto of British Guiana: Damus Petimus Que Vicissim (We give and expect in return).

To guard against forgery, Mr Dalton ordered that all stamps should be signed by post-office clerks.

And so it was that one of these, Edmond Dalzell Wight, scribbled his initials on an octagonal one-cent Magenta one day and passed into stamp-collecting history.

There were three sets of the temporary stamps: a one-cent magenta version for delivering newspapers, and a four-cent version in both blue and magenta for ordinary letters.

It is this quirk of administrative fate that accounts for the rarity value of the 1c Magenta.

When the expected delivery finally arrived from Britain, Mr Dalton had the temporary stamps destroyed. Because the 1c was used only to deliver newspapers  and not many people hang on to those  most of the 1c Magentas were lost.

However, one lone stamp did survive.

In 1873 a Scottish schoolboy called Louis Vernon Vaughan was sorting through some papers for his uncle when he spotted an unusual stamp.

The 12-year-old, who lived in British Guiana, clearly had a interest in philately, but perhaps not an eye for the main chance.

He sold the stamp to a local lawyer and fellow collector for just six shillings. Thats about 40 in todays money. Five years later that lawyer turned a nice profit by selling the stamp to a Liverpool dealer called Thomas Ridpath for 120 (about 14,600).

Ridpath, in turn, sold it later that year for 150 to a wealthy French businessman and collector called Philipp von Ferrary.

In 1922 it fell into the hands of an American philatelist called Arthur Hind, who paid $36,000, apparently outbidding King George V.

Mr Hind is a rather controversial figure in the stamp world. It was rumoured that he once discovered a second 1c Magenta, but destroyed it to maintain the value of his own stamp.

According to the story, he lit himself a cigar and then calmly set fire to this second stamp with the same match.

This is not the only controversy surrounding the 1c Magenta. A German collector claimed in the 1990s that he had one, bought from a Romanian dancer who had fallen on hard times. But this was dismissed by experts as a 4c Magenta that had been altered.

One owner of the genuine version was the billionaire U.S. philanthropist John E. du Pont, who died in prison in 2010 while serving a sentence for the murder of an Olympic champion wrestler called Dave Schultz.

Despite these colourful connections, it is fair to say philately does not have a particularly glamorous image.

To outsiders, stamp collectors are people who are looking for something more relaxing than the giddy thrill of trainspotting.

This could not be further from the case. Philately is the favoured pastime of monarchs and presidents. King George V built up a world-famous collection that now belongs to the Queen and is on display at St Jamess Palace in London.

U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt took a keen interest in new stamp designs, and once said: I owe my life to hobbies  especially stamp collecting.

The last surviving British Guiana 1c Magenta has a value per ounce of an astonishing $8.3billion, more than Da Vinci's Mona Lisa (above)

President Nicolas Sarkozy of France took up collecting in middle age, helped by gifts from the Queen and Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Freddie Mercury of the band Queen collected stamps, as did John Lennon, who started as a boy and once helped design a set of stamps in support of striking postal workers in 1971.

The former Beatles collection of 550 stamps was bought by the U.S. National Postal Museum for $53,000 in 2005.

What is the appeal?

The writer Hunter Davies, who also took up the hobby in middle age, once put it like this: According to the Freudians, collecting things such as stamps all goes back to potty training and obsession with ones bowels, which I think is b******s. I took it up as harmless fun, a nice quiet distraction.

The humble Magenta has certainly been getting the rock star treatment. It was accompanied from New York to London by two armed guards so that it was never out of sight.

When it goes on show, the temperature will never be more than 21c and the light exposure no more than 50 lumens.

It will be displayed in a special zero-oxygen frame, with humidity controlled at between 40 and 60 per cent.

Graham Shircore, the chief executive of Stanley Gibbons, said: The British Guiana 1c Magenta really is the Holy Grail of philately. Its truly one of a kind.

The stamp will not only be going on display, but will be at the centre of a stamp collectors co-operative.

Stanley Gibbons plans to introduce a shared ownership scheme, so that enthusiasts can buy a slice of this treasure at a modest price. This isnt just for wealthy collectors, says Mr Shircore.

Who says philately gets you nowhere?
Netflix fired three senior marketing officers for criticizing their colleagues on Slack.

The senior staffers haven't been identified and what was said haven't been revealed, but someone found months' worth of messages on an open Slack channel.

In a statement to DailyMail.com, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos said the critical Slack messages were about the fired employees' colleagues and that they were more than venting or a single conversation.

Netflix fired three senior marketing staffers for complaining about their colleagues on Slack

'These were critical, personal comments made over several months about their peers - including during meetings when those peers were talking or presenting,' Sarandos said.

'This is entirely inconsistent with those values, which is why their manager fired them. It's also worth noting that we don't proactively monitor Slack or email. The Slack channel was open so anyone could access the conversations even though the employees concerned thought it was private.

'These decisions are always tough and always sad. But having a healthy culture requires hard decisions, which is why managers don't shy away from them at Netflix.'

The company reportedly has a very transparent workplace environment, a source with knowledge of the situation and the thinking of Sarandos told the Hollywood Reporter.

'If you vent [there], you do it very publicly,' this person said. As for complaining in small groups, 'Ted told me its a firing offense because its destructive to the fabric of the company.'

Netflix has a unique culture of transparency that's outlined on their website and lists 10 core values with a bullet-point summary of each: judgement, communication curiosity, courage, passion, selflessness, innovation, inclusion, integrity and impact.

According to Netflix's website integrity is described as 'You only say things about fellow employees you say to their face.

'This attribute is one of the hardest for new people to believe - and to learn to practice. In most situations, both social and work, those who consistently say what they really think about people are quickly isolated and banished.

'We work hard to get people to give each other professional, constructive feedback - up, down and across the organization - on a continual basis. Leaders demonstrate that we are all fallible and open to feedback. People frequently ask others, What could I be doing better? and themselves, What feedback have I not yet shared?' the website says.

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos attends the Allen & Company Sun Valley Conference on July 8 Sun Valley, Idaho

Netflix's firing practices were a topic of a 2018 Wall Street Journal story that highlighted the company's cut-throat style of business.

Superiors constantly ask themselves if they would fight to keep an employee. If the answer is no, the employee is let go, according to the report.

CEO and co-founder Reed Hastings used that 'keeper test' when he fired early Netflix employee and close friend Neil Hunt, the companys chief product officer who created the companys algorithm.

His reasoning, according the Wall Street Journal, was a different employee was better suited to handle the job as the company expanded internationally.
Eugene H. Fahrenkrog Jr, (pictured) was held in criminal contempt and ordered to spend a week in jail, after cursing at judge during a hearing, according to an arrest warrant.

A Missouri lawyer was held in criminal contempt and ordered to spend a week in jail, after cursing at judge during a hearing, according to an arrest warrant.

Eugene H. Fahrenkrog Jr, was charged with criminal contempt Wednesday by St. Louis County Circuit Judge John Borbonus, after yelling 'f**k you,'directly to the judge.

'Behavior was willfully and intentionally committed, contemptuous, insolent and directly tended to interrupt proceedings of this Court and to impair the respect due its authority,' the warrant read.

Contempt of court is issued when an individual intentionally disobeys a court order.

Fahrenkrog, a lawyer for the Sumner Law Group, has been practicing law in Missouri since 1971.

According to the The St. Louis Post-Dispatch, he was representing a plaintiff in a 2019 medical malpractice case in St. Louis County at the time of the outburst.

According to the newspaper, Fahrenkrog was not in jail Wednesday.

Today News Post reported that Fahrenkrog had not surrendered to authorities as of Thursday.

Fahrenkrog Jr, was charged with criminal contempt Wednesday by St. Louis County Circuit Judge John (right). Left is the warrant

What does it mean to be held in 'criminal contempt?' Contempt of court is issued when an individual deliberately disobeys a court order. There are two types of contempt: civil and criminal. The purpose of civil contempt is to coerce the defendant to adhere to what is required by the order for the benefit of the complainant. The primary purposes of criminal contempt are to preserve the courts authority and punish the individual for disobeying said order. The consequences vary but can include jail time. Advertisement

It's uncertain exactly what triggered the outburst, but a case docket showed an ongoing dispute regarding the production of evidence in the ongoing lawsuit.

'Judge John N. Borbonus hereby certifies that said conduct was committed in the actual presence of this Court,' the judge's order read.

Fahrenkrog is known to represent individuals and families involved in complex medical negligence cases, according to his firm's website.

He has developed a successful career recovering millions of dollars in compensation for individuals who have suffered life-altering injuries due to medical malpractice.

He has also earned a reputation for demanding justice for families who have lost loved ones due to deadly medical errors.

'I understand the pain and frustration that patients face when a negligent medical provider betrays their trust,' Fahrenkrog outlines on his website.

'They want answers. They want justice. I help them get it. I work hard to give my clients peace of mind.'

He is a member of the Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys (MATA) in addition to the Christian Legal Society

Upon contacting Fahrenkrog's office, DailyMail.com was unable to reach Fahrenkrog or anyone from his office.
High street giants, the police and the NHS are retaining Covid-19 safeguards, including face masks, amid mounting confusion over Freedom Day.

Boris Johnson is stripping away laws requiring the wearing of masks and social distancing on Monday, despite soaring infection rates.

July 19 was originally billed as a liberation from the misery of pandemic restrictions, but many people will notice little difference.

Face masks will continue to be required on many parts of the public transport network, such as the London Underground and trams in Manchester.

High street giants, the police and the NHS are retaining Covid-19 safeguards, including face masks, amid mounting confusion over Freedom Day

Britains biggest retailers, cinemas and even some pub chains say safeguards will remain in place, and police officers and the NHS will continue to use face masks and social distancing for staff and patients as a safety measure.

Tesco will retain limits on the number of people allowed in stores, using a traffic light system on doors, along with other measures.

The countrys biggest retailer also said it will encourage customers and staff to continue wearing face coverings on safety grounds.

The same approach is being taken by Asda, Waitrose and John Lewis, Lidl, Aldi, Sainsburys, Waterstones and many others.

The stores will use signs and announcements asking people to wear masks, but they will not bar those who refuse.

The Government has replaced a legal requirement to wear masks in crowded situations with non-enforceable guidance.

This applies only to England, with Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland maintaining the controls.

The Government has replaced a legal requirement to wear masks in crowded situations with non-enforceable guidance.

Englands chief nurse has ordered that staff, patients and visitors in all NHS settings must continue to wear face coverings and observe social distancing.

PM's hint on face coverings into next year Guidance on mask wearing could be needed into next year, Boris Johnson hinted yesterday. The Prime Minister urged people not to throw caution to the wind when legal restrictions are lifted next week. In a downbeat assessment, he warned there are difficult days and weeks ahead as Covid cases surge. Mr Johnson said the current wave of infections would lead to sadly more hospitalisations and deaths. And he pleaded with people to continue to be careful when restrictions ease next week. Asked directly whether Government guidance on wearing masks would stay in place for the rest of this year, the PM said: Alas, the pandemic is still with us but we are able to go ahead in a cautious way. We are able to get rid of the legal restrictions but the guidance has to remain in place, at least for the time being. But he added the successful vaccination drive meant it was highly probable the worst of the pandemic was past  provided people continued to be cautious. Advertisement

Ruth May said: Face coverings and social distancing measures will remain in place across healthcare settings so that the most vulnerable people can continue to safely attend hospital, their GP surgery, pharmacy or any other healthcare settings for advice, care and treatment.

And it is important for the public to continue to play their part when visiting NHS and care settings to help protect our staff and patients, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to infections.

The National Police Chiefs Council has written to all officers saying that existing infection control measures for Covid should continue.

Paddy Lillis, general-secretary of the shopworkers union USDAW, described the mixed messages as a real mess.

He added: Retail staff already face unacceptable levels of abuse and making Covid safety measures guidance only, instead of having the force of law behind them, will create confusion and put more shopworkers at risk.

Wearing a face covering is an important measure to help protect workers who have no option but to interact with the public.

UKHospitality, the trade body for pubs, restaurants and attractions, expects many members to maintain some virus protection measures.

Chief executive Kate Nicholls said: Hospitality businesses have invested heavily to make their venues Covid-safe.

'Firms and their staff will want to ensure they can continue to deliver an experience that is safe and enjoyable for their teams and customers alike.

Adding to the confusion over masks, it emerged yesterday that most airports will advise travellers to wear them while inside.

However, only some airports are covered by bylaws which allow them to enforce mask-wearing.

The others will be able to only request passengers wear a mask, but will be powerless to take action if they refuse.
President Joe Biden called communism a 'failed system' on Thursday after he faced criticism from conservatives and some Florida Democrats for not showing strong enough support for the protesters in Cuba.

'Communism is a failed system, universally fail system. And I don't see socialism as a very useful substitute,' Biden said at the White House during a joint press conference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

The White House had given a more measured response to the protests that took place over food shortages and power outages on the island nation, refusing to call out the 'communist' government but denounced the 'authoritative regime' instead.

Biden said there were a 'number of things' his administration could to help the Cuban people but he expressed concern the communist-led government would take control of any aid sent there, such as remittances or COVID vaccines.

'They've cut off access to the internet. We're considering whether we have the technology to reinstate that access.'

The widespread internet blackouts are believed to have been sparked by the government during the crackdown on protesters in the streets of Cuba.

He also acknowledged his administration is doing something about the lack of internet access in Cuba. Florida's Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis wrote Biden on Wednesday, asking him to do something about the problem.

'We're considering whether we had the technological ability to reinstate that access,' Biden said.

Cuba is suffering its worst crisis in years from a combination of the coronavirus pandemic that has paralyzed its economy, including the vital tourism industry, inefficiencies in the state-run economy and the tightening of U.S. sanctions on the island.

The country has been governed by the Communist Party for some six decades.

President Joe Biden called communism a 'failed system' during his joint press conference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel

Cuban protested lack of food shortages in their country

Biden was under pressure from critics to speak out more strongly about the protests

DeSantis, who is seen as a top contender for the GOP presidential nomination in 2024 should he run, asked Biden for federal assistance to provide Internet access to the people of Cuba.

In his letter to Biden, DeSantis noted: 'The Cuban people have lost their ability to communicate with one another, and many Floridians born in Cuba have no information on the safety of their loved ones. Equally as important, the world has also lost the ability to see what is happening on the ground as the Cuban people rise in support of freedom.'

He called on Biden to provide the necessary authorizations and funding to help boost Internet access on the island.

He also denounced the 'communist government' of Cuba at a Thursday press conference in Miami.

'We obviously have to stand with the people of Cuba against the communist dictatorship,' DeSantis said.

At his press conference, the Florida governor reiterated his call to allow for internet access.

'The one thing that communist regimes fear the most, is the truth. And if we're able to help Cubans communicate with one another, also communicate to the outside world, that truth is going to matter, that truth, I think, will be decisive,' DeSantis said. 'And so, Mr. President, now's the time to stand up and be counted.'

People hold Cuban and US flags as they march during a protest showing support for Cubans demonstrating against their government, in Hialeah, Florida on July 15

Crowds gathered for more protests in Hialeah, Florida on July 15 following unprecedented unrest in Cuba earlier this week

People chant during a protest showing support for Cubans demonstrating against their government, in Hialeah, Florida on July 15

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and other officials pressed the White House on Thursday to support efforts to preserve internet service to antigovernment protesters in Cuba, even advocating the use of giant balloons as floating Wi-Fi hotspots to allow images of dissent to stream unabated from the authoritarian nation. Pictured: A protester in Florida on July 15

DeSantis said every option should be explored, including using offshore and satellite technology to supply internet service, even using hot air balloons as to provide connectivity.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki acknowledged on Thursday that the lack of internet 'is a huge issue in Cuba and one that is very challenging for the people of Cuba so they can gain access to accurate information they can correspond with family members and others.'

'We are certainly looking at that to see what can be done to address, but in terms of that specific proposal I don't have an assessment of that,' she added.

Additionally, Psaki finally condemned communism as a 'failed ideology.'

'Communism is a failed ideology, and we certainly believe that it has failed the people of Cuba,' she said at her press briefing. 'They deserve freedom.'

Psaki originally refused to condemn the communist regime amid the state crackdown on demonstrations and instead blamed 'government mismanagement'.

Psaki also defended critics who say Biden hasn't done enough on the issue, saying 'he is certainly advocating for and speaking out as we put out a statement, multiple statements.'

'He has made clear that he stands with the Cuban people and their call for freedom from both the pandemic and from decades of repression and economic suffering to which they've been subjected by Cuba's authoritarian regime,' she added.

Florida Democrats want Biden to come to Miami to give a pro-democracy and human rights speech that would address the situation in Cuba but could also tie in Haiti.

Florida's Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis, a possible 2024 WH candidate, asked Biden for federal assistance to provide Internet access to the people of Cuba and condemned the country's 'communist dictatorship'

White House press secretary Jen Psaki finally condemned communism as a 'failed ideology'

A part of the Florida Democrats' concerns is that Biden is missing an opportunity to court the crucial Hispanic vote, which Biden dramatically under performed with in Florida during the 2020 election.

The Cuban vote is particularly powerful in that swing state. Donald Trump won Florida's Cuban vote 56% to Biden's 41% in last year's election, which helped the former president carry the state.

'I really believe this is one of those moments, I put it up with the moment of 'Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall' because I do believe we can give the hope to the people in Cuba,' Democratic state Sen. Annette Taddeo told the Miami Herald. 'It's really about the people in Cuba who need to hear it. The words of the president of the U.S., be it Republican or Democrat, should matter.'

Some Democrats worried Biden was taking the lead of liberals and being too cautious in his early statements. While progressives, like Sen. Bernie Sanders, expressed support for the protests, they said nothing about totalitarian government.

'All people have the right to protest and to live in a democratic society. I call on the Cuban government to respect opposition rights and refrain from violence. It's also long past time to end the unilateral U.S. embargo on Cuba, which has only hurt, not helped, the Cuban people,' wrote Sanders on Twitter.

In the protests, many Cubans expressed anger over long lines and shortages of food and medicines, as well as repeated electricity outages. But there were also calls for political change in a country governed by the Communist Party for some six decades.

Police arrested dozens of protesters, sometimes violently, and the government has accused protesters of looting and vandalizing shops. Smaller protests continued Monday and officials reported at least one death. No incidents were reported Wednesday.

Republicans, in contrast, have taken a much tougher stance on the Cuban government.

Miami-Dade Democratic Party chairman Steve Simeonidis issued a warning on DeSantis, who is seeking a second term in the gubernatorial campaign in next year's election.

'The fact that Ron DeSantis is pretending to lead on this issue while completely making it partisan shows that this is a political game he's playing ahead of his reelection campaign,' Simeonidis said. 'I don't think there's anything that Joe Biden could do on any issue that would receive any praise from South Florida Republican elected officials.'

People protest to show support for Cubans demonstrating against their government in Miami
British expats fully vaccinated abroad will be able to sidestep quarantine when returning to the UK under plans being drawn up by ministers.

The move would make family reunions and other leisure trips to the UK much easier for the 5.5millon or so British citizens living abroad.

An announcement confirming the policy could come as early as next week, the Mail understands.

Under new rules coming into force on Monday, fully vaccinated Britons returning to the UK from more than 140 amber list countries will be able to sidestep quarantine if their jabs were administered by the NHS.

It means British expats whose jabs were administered abroad will still have to quarantine for up to ten days on arrival, even if the vaccine they received is approved in Britain.

The move would make family reunions and other leisure trips to the UK much easier for the 5.5millon or so British citizens living abroad

Dropping that requirement could make family reunions and other important trips possible for expats only able to visit for a week or two before needing to return to where they live for work or other commitments.

Having to self-isolate means they face having to remain in a hotel or wherever they are staying for up to ten days before being able to leave to meet with friends and family.

Britons returning from abroad can show proof that they have received both doses via the NHS app.

But it is understood one issue is that the technology needs to be adapted so foreign-administered doses can be registered on the system.

Kate Can, 28, originally from Basildon in Essex, moved to Turkey in 2014 where she now lives with husband Orcun Can, 33, and their 18-month-old daughter, Ela.

They have been unable to return to the UK since Christmas to see Mrs Can's parents in Essex.

She believes Turkey, currently on the red list, could soon return to amber as the Covid situation there has improved and said extending the side-stepping of quarantine to expats would make returning for a family reunion possible.

Dropping that requirement could make family reunions and other important trips possible for expats only able to visit for a week or two before needing to return to where they live for work or other commitments

She said: 'It would make a huge amount of difference because we'd be able to come and immediately see family and meet up with people.

'Without that, especially with our work commitments and my husband's working patterns, it would be difficult.

'Extending it to expats would mean we'd be able to come and see family and come and go in the space of a week or two.

'If we had to quarantine, even if at my parents' house rather than a hotel, it would mean no one else could come and visit us and it would make things difficult.'

The development came as First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford, attacked the UK government's move to relax restrictions for double-jabbed people arriving from amber countries.

He said the change ran the risk of 're-importation' of Covid back into the country and that the previous regime of making all amber arrivals quarantine regardless of whether they have been vaccinated was 'more sensible and proportionate'.

Speaking to BBC Breakfast, he said: 'I do regret the fact that the Prime Minister has decided that [fully vaccinated] people returning from amber list countries do not require to self-isolate.

'I think it runs the risk of re-importation of the virus into the United Kingdom, I think it runs the risk of new variants cropping up elsewhere in the world coming into the UK and into Wales.

'I think the previous regime was a more sensible and proportionate one.'

He added: 'When people are on holiday, they will behave in the way that people on holiday behave.

'They will be mixing with more people, they will be doing the sorts of things that bring them into contact with one another.

'Here in Wales in September of last year, we ended up with considerable difficulties caused by the re-importation of the virus.

'People (went) on holiday to many other parts of the world and when they came back to Wales, they were already infected.

'That drove a new rise in infections here in Wales. We can avoid that and it's a risk we don't need to run.'

Despite the comments, Wales has decided to follow suit and adopt the new amber rules along with England.

On Wednesday, Mr Drakeford said he 'regretted' the UK government's move but that it would have been 'untenable for Wales to adopt a different border health policy.'

The Welsh government is still advising people to holiday domestically.

Scotland has also decided to adopt the new amber rules for returning travellers.

Although double-jabbed Britons returning from amber countries will be able to sidestep quarantine from Monday, they will still be required to take two tests.

One of these must be taken within three days of returning to the UK and can be a rapid antigen swab if it meets certain standards, while the second must be a 'gold standard' PCR test taken no later than day two on arrival in the UK.

Non-fully vaccinated people will still have to quarantine when returning from amber countries.

Around 5.5 million British expats live overseas, including 1.2million in Europe, the vast majority of which is on the amber list.

Most of these are in Spain, where there are around 760,000 expats, many of them retirees.
Victorians unable to work because of a snap, five-day lockdown in Melbourne will be able to claim $600 from the federal government.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Treasurer Josh Frydenberg, a Melburnian, announced late on Thursday night a COVID-19 Disaster Payment package.

Those who lose 20 hours or more of work will be eligible for $600 while those who lose eight to 20 hours of work can claim $375.

The same relief that is being given to Sydney workers, now in lockdown until at least July 30, will now be given to those in Melbourne.

This followed criticism from Victoria's Labor Premier Daniel Andrews that Canberra was favouring New South Wales, which has a Coalition government.

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Victorians unable to work because of a snap, five-day lockdown in Melbourne will be able to claim $600 from the federal government

More than six million Victorians are living under stay-at-home orders for the fifth time since the start of the pandemic in March 2020, after removalists from Sydney this week brought to more contagious Indian Delta variant to an apartment block at Maribyrnong in Melbourne's inner west.

The rules applied during last month's lockdown have been re-imposed, including a 5km travel limit for exercise and shopping and compulsory mask-wearing indoors and outdoors.

Victoria's restrictions are stricter than those in NSW, where residents of Sydney, Wollongong, the Central Coast and the Blue Mountains can exercise 10km from home and don't have to wear masks outside.

'We've got no choice. We don't want this getting away from us and being locked down for months,' Mr Andrews said.

Late on Thursday, the federal government announced the COVID-19 Disaster Payment scheme would be available to people who work or live in Greater Melbourne, as well as the local government areas of Moorabool Shire, the City of Greater Geelong, Borough of Queenscliff and the Surf Coast Shire.

The Victorian government will provide 'significant additional economic support to businesses'.

The same relief that is being given to Sydney workers, now in lockdown until July 30, will now be given to those in Melbourne. This followed criticism from Victoria's Labor Premier Daniel Andrews that Canberra was favouring New South Wales, which has a Coalition government

Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Treasurer Josh Frydenberg (pictured), a Melburnian, announced late on Thursday night a COVID-19 Disaster Payment package. Mr Frydenberg rejected a suggestion Victoria had politically forced the Commonwealth to give a support package

Mr Frydenberg rejected a suggestion Victoria had politically forced the Commonwealth to give a support package.

'As the virus evolves, so does our response,' he told Seven's Sunrise program on Friday.

'As the Commonwealth, we don't get bullied by anyone.'

Mr Andrews has warned there is no guarantee the lockdown would end as planned at 11.59pm on Tuesday, with his NSW counterpart Gladys Berejiklian already extending Sydney's initial two-week lockdown for another fortnight to July 30.

'It may be longer because it depends on what every Victorian does,' he said.

However, he flagged restrictions in regional Victoria could be lifted earlier if it is safe to do so

Several hundred people gathered outside Flinders Street Station on Thursday night to protest the latest lockdown, listening to speeches and chanting 'sack Dan Andrews'

Several hundred people gathered outside Flinders Street Station on Thursday night to protest the latest lockdown, listening to speeches and chanting 'sack Dan Andrews'.

A flare was lit as they marched to parliament. Police confirmed no arrests were made.

It came after Victoria recorded two additional locally acquired COVID-19 cases on Thursday afternoon, taking the number of community cases linked to the outbreak, which originated in NSW in mid-June, to 18.

Most of the cases are connected to NSW removalists who breached their worker permit conditions and spread the virus during a drop-off at the Ariele Apartments in Maribyrnong late last week.

More than six million Victorians are living under stay-at-home orders (pictured is an Albert Park testing clinic) for the fifth time since the start of the pandemic, after removalists from Sydney brought to more contagious Indian Delta variant to an apartment block at Maribyrnong in Melbourne's inner west

A Victoria Police spokesman told Australian Associated Press it was helping to establish the three-person crew's movements as part of a health department investigation.

Of greatest concern to authorities are three cases of suspected 'stranger-to-stranger transmission' at an AFL match between Carlton and Geelong at the MCG on Saturday.

A positive case also attended the international rugby clash between the Wallabies and France at AAMI Park on Tuesday night, with stadium management working with health officials to identify close contacts.

There are more than 110 exposure sites across Melbourne and regional Victoria, including the MCG and several stores at Chadstone shopping centre.
A terrified 12-year-old girl hid behind her mother when police turned up at her home to check that she was self-isolating  afraid she was going to be arrested.

Officers then came to her home the next evening in what the family said was a riot van, prompting a 'meltdown' from the bewildered schoolgirl.

Charlotte Crook had been at home following the rules after a positive coronavirus test and her shocked mother Kathryn yesterday branded the police response 'overkill'.

Throughout the pandemic, police have faced accusations of heavy-handedness in enforcing Covid restrictions.

It comes after business leaders warned the 'pingdemic' was causing chaos for families, firms and hospitals and demanded changes on the NHS Covid-19 app to avoid a 'self-inflicted economic wound'.

NHS chiefs have also warned the system was making it 'increasingly difficult' to deliver routine care and said hospitals were now scrapping operations because so many workers were having to self isolate.

Nearly 900,000 alerts telling people to quarantine were issued in the first week of this month following contact with a coronavirus victim.

But rising numbers of people being forced into self-isolation has led unions to warn that factories across the country are on the 'verge of shutting' down.

In other developments:

Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick admitted No10 was 'concerned' about the number of people who may have to self-isolate because of the app;

Official figures released today show the contact-tracing app sent out 520,000 self-isolation alerts last week;

Councils raised concerns over bin collections after Leeds, Bristol and Rochdale were forced to leave resident's rubbish on the curbside after the app forced workers to stay at home;

O fficial figures revealed that as few as 30 per cent of adults have been double-jabbed in inner cities;

Ministers were urged to get a grip on the Covid travel test fiasco that has led to lengthy delays and appalling service.

Charlotte Crook had been at home in Middleton, Greater Manchester, following the rules after a positive coronavirus test when police arrived in a 'riot van'.

Officers came to her home the next evening in what the family said was a riot van, prompting a 'meltdown' from the bewildered schoolgirl

NHS England data showed a record 520,000 alerts were sent by the app last week, telling people they had been in close contact with someone who tested positive

And the number of alerts sent out in relation to venues also more than doubled in seven days

Up to 900 workers at car giant Nissan's flagship plant in Sunderland are being made to self-isolate after they were pinged by the app, it was claimed today.

And the National Care Association said care homes had 'real staffing issues' because of the app.

Bin rounds were also missed this week in Sutton Coldfield because of outbreaks of Covid and some hospital trusts have had up to 500 staff isolating at a time, forcing them to close beds and cancel operations.

Meanwhile the chief executive of Rolls-Royce, Torsten Muller-Otvos, said the car maker was on the 'edge of a critical situation' and a complete shutdown could not be ruled out.

He told The Daily Telegraph: 'Cases have gone through the roof and it is causing havoc.'

Elsewhere, Chris Hopson, of NHS Providers, said: 'Trust leaders continue to share serious concerns about rising levels of staff isolation, which are now significantly impacting on their ability to deliver care.'

This week, health secretary Sajid Javid warned daily Covid infections were likely to top 100,000 after restrictions are lifted on Monday. That could force around half a million a day to self-isolate.

It comes as separate data from Test and Trace showed infections surged by 43 per cent last week after another 194,005 people tested positive for the virus. And Britain today recorded another 48,553 Covid cases in the biggest daily surge since January.

On Sunday, officers from Greater Manchester Police arrived at the Crook family home in Middleton and asked to speak directly to Charlotte.

'They would not tell me and my husband why they wanted to speak to my daughter,' Mrs Crook, 45, said yesterday.

'I suggested that she was only 12 and as her mother, I should be the one they should speak to.

'My daughter by this time was stood behind me, crouching, thinking she had done something wrong and was petrified.'

She claimed the officer 'shouted' to Charlotte to check she was isolating.

The following day the family tried to find out what had happened and contacted their Tory MP Chris Clarkson  only for officers to return at 9pm.

'It was the police again, this time in a riot van and coming to 'check' again that my daughter was isolating,' said Mrs Crook.

Hundreds of workers told to self-isolate at Sunderland car factory A car factory in Sunderland has been thrown into chaos by the NHS app, with hundreds told to isolate. Reports suggest up to 900 workers are being forced to stay at home after receiving 'pings'. Nissan said it has 'adjusted' production at the Wearside site, which employs 7,000 people. But unions are warning many factories are approaching collapse with so many staff members forced to stay home by self-isolation warnings. Nissan said it had 'a number of staff being required to self-isolate following close contact with Covid'. Unite assistant general secretary Steve Turner said: 'No one is advocating for Covid controls to go out the window and Unite's number one priority remain the health and safety of our members. 'But the reports Unite is receiving from our members and their employers are extremely worrying. 'It is not an exagerration to say factories are on the verge of shutting and that at some sites hundreds of staff are off work.' Advertisement

'It was terribly upsetting again for my daughter and she had another meltdown, again thinking the police were going to arrest her.'

Last March, Derbyshire Police were branded 'sinister' for releasing drone footage of people out walking in the Peak District during lockdown  even though exercise was permitted.

In January, the same force came under fire after its officers 'surrounded' friends Jessica Allen and Eliza Moore and fined them 200 each for walking by a reservoir. It later quashed the fines after a national outcry.

Last November qualified nurse Ylenia Angeli, 73, was arrested for trying to remove her 97-year-old mother Tina Thornborough  who she had not been able to hug for nine months  from her care home in Market Weighton, East Yorkshire.

Mrs Thornborough's granddaughter, former Coronation Street actress Leandra Ashton, 42, branded the police action 'ridiculous'. She was later released without charge.

Yesterday Charlotte's mother, a college work placement officer, accused officials of behaving in a 'completely inappropriate and heavy-handed' manner.

Charlotte, a pupil at The Blue Coat School in Oldham, had been isolating since a positive PCR test on July 4. She was due out of isolation on Wednesday.

Her mother said a member of staff from NHS Test and Trace rang on July 5 asking to speak to Charlotte.

'They said they wanted to speak to her,' said Mrs Crook.

'When I asked them if the data provided would be anonymous they said they could not guarantee her details would not be passed on to contacts.

'At this point, I said I did not consent to her data being used as she is only 12 and a minor.'

In January, the same force came under fire after its officers 'surrounded' friends Jessica Allen (left) and Eliza Moore (right) and fined them 200 each for walking by a reservoir. It later quashed the fines after a national outcry

After the call, Charlotte's case was passed to Rochdale council who asked police to check if the rules were being breached.

The council confirmed the case has been closed as they were satisfied that Charlotte was self-isolating.

But Mrs Crook said: 'My daughter was thinking she was going to get arrested at any moment.' Rochdale council said details were passed to local authorities where the national Test and Trace team is not able to contact someone to confirm they are isolating.

'It is important that people carry out their legal duty to isolate so that other people are protected from the virus,' it said.

Last night Charlotte's parents said they had now received an apology from Greater Manchester Police and did not wish to take matters further.

A spokesman for the force said it was contacted if there was a suspected breach of the rules 'to carry out the checks and issue a fixed penalty notice if required'.

Despite the vehicle having a protective shield on its windscreen, the force insisted it was not a riot van and was instead one 'commonly used by district officers'.

Mrs Thornborough's granddaughter, former Coronation Street actress Leandra Ashton (left), 42, branded the police action 'ridiculous'. She was later released without charge

Thousands of ministers and officials are escaping self-isolation rules thanks to 'get out of jail free card' pilot scheme Thousands of ministers and government officials are escaping self-isolation thanks to a pilot scheme that amounts to a 'get out of jail free card', it was revealed. The Cabinet Office, Border Force and Transport for London are among the bodies signed up to a trial that replaces quarantine with daily testing - meaning they can continue working after being 'pinged' for close contact with a positive case. Michael Gove used the arrangements to avoid self-isolating when he returned from watching the Champions' League final in Porto in May. Several Downing Street staff have benefited from the pilot, instead being able to take daily lateral flow tests to check whether they have the virus. They can carry on duties as normal unless they develop symptoms, but must still isolate when not at work. According to the Telegraph, some politicians have likened the scheme - which is apparently in place in businesses in utilities, manufacturing and retail - to the famous Monopoly card. Nadhim Zahawi highlighted at the weekend that daily testing could replace self-isolation more widely in future. However, the news will raise questions about whether ministers and civil servants are getting preferential treatment when hundreds of thousands of healthy members of the public are being forced into house arrest. Advertisement

The rising numbers of people being forced into self-isolation has led unions to warn that factories across the country are on the 'verge of shutting' down.

People told to isolate by the app are under no legal requirement to do so because their identity is not tracked by the software.

But fears have been raised that the software could cripple the nation's already fragile economy this summer when restrictions are completely lifted.

Businesses demanding a re-think of the rules have warned supermarket shelves may be left empty if tens of thousands of workers are told they must self-isolate in the coming weeks.

There are also fears piles of rubbish may pile up in the street some bin collections in Liverpool have already been cancelled from next week because too many staff are isolating to run the service.

Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick today admitted No10 was 'concerned' about the number of people who may have to self-isolate because of the app.

Official figures released today show the contact-tracing app sent out 520,000 self-isolation alerts last week.

The number of 'pings' dished out by the software in the week ending July 7 was the highest since the data was first published in January, and was up 46 per cent on the previous seven-day spell.

Despite fears the chaos will only get worse over the next few weeks with infections expected to continue surging, it was claimed that the contact-tracing app may not be watered down after all.

Government officials have been tasked with tweaking the software so fewer people are 'pinged' and told to self-isolate.

But sources told The Times that it was possible no changes will be made, and that if they are, they won't happen until August 16  the same day quarantine rules end for the fully-vaccinated.

NHS England data showed a record number of positive cases were linked to the app last week, as the third wave gathers steam.

Infections have soared over the past weeks, with some experts attributing the sharp rise to England's progress to the final of Euro 2020.

There were 86,000 positive cases logged with the software, up 40 per cent on the 61,000 in the previous week.

And the number of alerts sent linked to venues more than doubled to 1,247 places.

These are sent when someone has visited a location, like a pub or restaurant, on the same day as another person who later tested positive for the virus.

NHS Covid app (pictured) will not be made less sensitive for weeks, reports say

Ministers are understood to have been spooked out of tweaking the app by the soaring infection rates..

And thinktanks have claimed the rise in cases could see up to 2million people told to quarantine at home every week by the app, unless it is watered down.

Mr Jenrick called on Britons to keep using the app today but hinted ministers were still mulling over how to update it.

Government sources last week told the Mail the app's 'sensitivity' will be reduced to cut the numbers being asked to isolate unnecessarily.

Mr Jenrick told LBC: 'It is important that we have the app, that we take it seriously, that when we do get those messages we act accordingly.

But we are going to give further thought to how we can ensure it is a proportionate response.'

He added: 'We have indicated that for those who have been double-vaccinated there are opportunities to take a more proportionate approach.

Up to 10 per cent of staff working at Nissan's car plant in Sunderland (pictured) have been told to self-isolate by the app

Test and Trace app pings neighbours through walls if their phones are too close despite the people having NO face-to-face contact The NHS Test and Trace app is 'pinging' neighbours through walls if their phones are in close proximity to each other, it was claimed last night. Neighbours are being forced into quarantine for ten days despite never coming into contact with a positive case of the virus because the bluetooth signal used by the app is known to be strong enough to penetrate walls. This means the technology will occasionally send an order to quarantine to people because their next-door neighbour  with whom they share a wall  may have tested positive, sources told The Telegraph. It comes as business leaders warned the 'pingdemic' was causing chaos for families, firms and hospitals and demanded changes on the NHS Covid-19 app to avoid a 'self-inflicted economic wound'. Nearly 900,000 alerts telling people to quarantine were issued in the first week of this month following contact with a coronavirus victim. Sources have said issues concerning the sensitivity of the app were raised when it was initially created and are now in the process of being tweaked. A source told the Daily Telegraph: 'We are hearing of anecdotal cases and we do know that it is possible for the signal to travel through walls, although it is weakened.' Dr Fiona Sampson, a senior research fellow in emergency and urgent care at the University of Sheffield, told The Daily Telegraph: 'My partner got pinged and rang 111 to find out when the contact was. However, he hadn't left the house on the day of the alleged contact. 'We later realised he had been working with his phone on the table, less than two metres away from our neighbour.' Meanwhile Jason Delaney, 39, a bar owner from Alton, Hampshire, told the newspaper he too was informed he had come into contact with a Covid case despite not having met with anyone on the day in question. NHS guidance says the app's bluetooth signal is reduced through walls but not blocked entirely, with people on the other side 'less likely' to receive an alert. A Government spokesman said the number of people 'pinged' through walls was not large enough to be considered 'an issue', adding: 'But we wouldn't say that this never happens.' Advertisement

'We are concerned about absences as a result of being pinged, for example.

'That is one of the reasons why we do need to move to a more proportionate approach.'

Business leaders have warned the app could lead to a summer of chaos after Monday, when most remaining Covid curbs are due to be lifted.

Lidl has partly blamed empty shelves at some of its stores on so many truck drivers having to isolate.

Nissan said it has had to adjust production at its plant because of the amount of staff being told to isolate.

The company said: 'Production in certain areas of the plant has been adjusted as we manage a number of staff being required to self-isolate following close contact with Covid.

'The well-being of our team is our number one priority and we remain confident in the rigorous safety controls we have on site.'

But unions are warning many factories are approaching collapse with so many staff members forced to stay home by self-isolation warnings.

Unite assistant general secretary Steve Turner said: 'No one is advocating for Covid controls to go out the window and Unite's number one priority remain the health and safety of our members.

'But the reports Unite is receiving from our members and their employers are extremely worrying.

'It is not an exaggeration to say factories are on the verge of shutting and that at some sites hundreds of staff are off work.'

And councils have raised concerns over bin collections after Leeds, Bristol and Rochdale were forced to leave resident's rubbish on the curbside after the app forced workers to stay at home.

Liverpool Council yesterday confirmed bin collection would be cancelled for two weeks in parts of the city.

Cabinet member for neighbourhoods Abdul Qadir said: 'Unfortunately due to Covid guidelines on isolation our refuse service team is severely depleted, and we need to prioritise our waste collections.

'Our current programme is clearly not sustainable when one in four staff are unavailable to work.

'We know the temporary suspension of collecting garden waste will be an inconvenience but it will allow us to ensure general waste and alleyway cleansing is kept to schedule.

'Our recycling centres are also open late in the summer so residents have an option if they feel they can't wait for the next green bin cycle.

'After 19 July, the isolation guidelines change for those who have been double jabbed and this two week delay will give us time to re-organise the teams to ensure we can get back on track at the start of August.'

The NHS app  heralded as a way to halt the spread of the virus  uses Bluetooth to estimate how close a user has been to a Covid positive patient and for how long.

This information allows it to determine whether someone is at risk of catching the virus and if they should self-isolate.

Everyone who gets alerted is advised to self-isolate for ten days, even if they have had both doses of the vaccine or a negative test

Ministers have promised to drop isolation requirements for the double-jabbed on August 16, but are under pressure to push this date forward.

More than 26million Britons have downloaded the app  or around half the adults in the country  but many are now deleting and deactivating it.

It comes after polling revealed yesterday that a fifth of Britons are planning to delete the NHS app before 'Freedom Day' amid fears they may be asked to self-isolate.

It also found more than a third of 18 to 24-year-olds in the UK have already deleted the app, and another third say they are considering wiping it from their phones within the next week.

Among adults of all ages, the proportion debating deleting the app in the next six days was 20 per cent according to Savanta ComRes.

It comes as it was revealed yesterday that thousands of ministers and government officials are escaping self-isolation thanks to a pilot scheme that amounts to a 'get out of jail free card'.

The Cabinet Office, Border Force and Transport for London are among the bodies signed up to a trial that replaces quarantine with daily testing - meaning they can continue working after being 'pinged' for close contact with a positive case.

Michael Gove used the arrangements to avoid self-isolating when he returned from watching the Champions' League final in Porto in May.

Warnings of cancelled operations as NHS finds it 'increasingly difficult' to manage without absent staff - as 900,000 self-isolation alerts are issued in a single week causing chaos for medics, firms and families across Britain

Factories are on the verge of shutting and hospitals are scrapping operations because so many workers are having to self isolate.

Nearly 900,000 alerts telling people to quarantine were issued in the first week of this month following contact with a coronavirus victim.

The 'pingdemic' is causing chaos for families and firms, prompting business leaders to demand changes on the NHS Covid-19 app to avoid a 'self-inflicted economic wound'.

NHS chiefs warned the system was making it 'increasingly difficult' to deliver routine care.

There was further anger at heavy-handed enforcement of test and trace rules after police in a riot van called on a girl of 12 to ensure she was self-isolating after a positive swab.

Factories are on the verge of shutting and hospitals are scrapping operations because so many workers are having to self isolate. Pictured:

The chief executive of Rolls-Royce, Torsten Muller-Otvos (left), said the car maker was on the edge of a critical situation while Chris Hopson (right), chief executive of NHS Providers, added that trust leaders 'continued to share serious concerns about rising levels of staff isolation'

Kathryn Crook said officers called twice at her home in Manchester leaving her daughter Charlotte petrified. She added: 'She has been in complete meltdown, thinking she was going to get arrested at any moment.'

Another 48,553 Covid cases were reported yesterday, the highest total since January, with 63 more deaths.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid warned daily Covid infections were likely to top 100,000 after restrictions are lifted on Monday. That could force around half a million a day to self-isolate.

The chief executive of Rolls-Royce said the car maker was on the 'edge of a critical situation' and a complete shutdown could not be ruled out. 'Cases have gone through the roof and it is causing havoc,' Torsten Muller-Otvos told the Daily Telegraph.

The UK's largest car factory, the Nissan plant in Sunderland, has been cancelling shifts and 'hundreds' of staff are self-isolating. A major engine supplier said it was so far behind on orders it was considering moving work permanently to China.

The National Care Association said care homes had 'real staffing issues' because of the app, while in Liverpool so many bin men are self-isolating that the council has told households their rubbish will not be collected until August.

Bin rounds were also missed this week in Sutton Coldfield because of outbreaks of Covid.

Some hospital trusts have had up to 500 staff isolating at a time, forcing them to close beds and cancel operations.

In retail and hospitality a third of staff are off self-isolating in the worst hit areas, forcing thousands of venues to shut.

In other developments:

O fficial figures revealed that as few as 30 per cent of adults have been double-jabbed in inner cities;

Tesco and John Lewis will join the police and NHS in retaining Covid safeguards, including face masks, after most official restrictions end on Monday;

Boris Johnson hinted guidance on wearing masks could run into next year;

Ministers were urged to get a grip on the Covid travel test fiasco that has led to lengthy delays and appalling service.

Individuals can be pinged by the NHS Covid app and told to self-isolate for ten days after coming into contact with an infected person. Alternatively they can be ordered to self-isolate in a phone call from NHS Test and Trace.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid warned daily Covid infections were likely to top 100,000 after restrictions are lifted on Monday

Officers visited the home of Kathryn Crook in Middleton, Greater Manchester, to check that Charlotte (above together), 12, was adhering to Covid guidance after catching the virus

A record 530,126 were pinged by the NHS app last week in England and Wales  a weekly increase of 46 per cent, figures released yesterday showed.

Another 336,056 were reached by NHS contact tracers, an increase of a third on the previous week. A total of 866,182 self-isolation alerts were sent out.

NHS Covid app (pictured) will not be made less sensitive for weeks, reports say

Quarantine rules will be changed from August 16 to exempt those who are double-vaccinated, but the British Chambers of Commerce has demanded this is brought forward to Monday.

Plans to make the NHS Covid app less sensitive, meaning fewer people would be pinged, have been delayed as concerns mount over rising infection rates.

Former Conservative Party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith said: 'The self-isolation policy is causing chaos in every area of British life resulting in a lockdown in everything but name. Ministers must get a grip and make urgent changes or a tsunami of pings will literally shut this country and its economy down.'

Stephen Phipson, chief executive of Make UK, which represents the manufacturing sector, said: 'The need to isolate, even without symptoms, is now a serious issue and impacting on production.

'It has escalated significantly over the last week. There is now an urgent priority for the Government to bring forward the August date.'

NHS England data showed a record 520,000 alerts were sent by the app last week, telling people they had been in close contact with someone who tested positive

A record number of positive tests were also linked to the app last week, data showed. There were 86,000 cases logged with the app, up 40 per cent from 61,000 the previous week

And the number of alerts sent out in relation to venues also more than doubled in seven days

Public Health England data showed 10,267 more young men than women were infected over the last two weeks, with the gender gap having widened since the tournament kicked off

Chris Hopson, of NHS Providers, said: 'Trust leaders continue to share serious concerns about rising levels of staff isolation, which are now significantly impacting on their ability to deliver care.'

Thousands of doctors and nurses, almost all of whom have been double-jabbed, are off work after being pinged.

Infection rates are highest in the North East of England, forcing some trusts to allow workers to avoid self-isolation by taking rapid lateral flow tests.

Richard Walker, managing director of Iceland supermarkets, said: 'Just as we thought the worst was over, Covid threatens to take its biggest toll yet on the economy, thanks to the broken test and trace system.'

A Government source acknowledged the crisis was proving 'very difficult' for business but said self-isolation was vital in preventing cases spiralling even further out of control.
Seven Tories and two prominent Labour MPs accepted free Euro 2020 tickets worth thousands of pounds from gambling companies.

MPs were also given free tickets to Wimbledon and Royal Ascot by the betting industry, according to the register of MPs interests.

Former work and pensions secretary Esther McVey accepted a 3,457 hospitality package to attend the England v Denmark semi-final from Entain, the owner of Ladbrokes. Her husband, Tory MP Philip Davies, declared the same freebie.

Former Works and Pensions minister Esther McVey, pictured, a 3,457 hospitality package to attend the England v Denmark semi-final from Entain, the owner of Ladbrokes. Her husband, Tory MP Philip Davies, declared the same freebie

Fellow Tory MP Scott Benton, who represents Blackpool South, accepted almost 8,000 worth of hospitality for two England games, Wimbledon and Royal Ascot, courtesy of Entain, online betting company Gamesys and the Betting and Gambling Council.

Labour MPs Toby Perkins, a shadow skills minister, and Mark Tami, an opposition whip, also accepted packages to attend an England game, worth 3,457 and 1,961 respectively.

MPs have not yet registered hospitality for the Euro 2020 final, so more declarations are expected.

The stream of freebies come as the Government reviews the Gambling Act to consider tightening the rules on betting companies advertising.

Gambling firms have been widely condemned for using the Euros to entice fans to visit their sites, flooding social media and television with adverts.

Matt Zarb-Cousin, director of the Clean Up Gambling campaign, told The Guardian: While the government reviews our gambling laws, its no surprise to see the betting industry on a charm offensive.

Tory MP Laurence Robertson took hospitality for England v Denmark from Entain, a package worth 2,800 from the Betting and Gaming Council for Royal Ascot and another event at Sandown racecourse hosted by Coral

Thankfully the vast majority of MPs are in favour of gambling reform, but legislators should think twice about accepting hospitality from a sector that derives the majority of its profits from people experiencing harm.

The other Tory MPs to accept free Euros tickets were Graham Stuart, Stuart Andrew and Ben Bradley, who were all given tickets to England v Germany at Wembley with hospitality worth 1,961 by bookmaker Power Leisure.

Meanwhile Laurence Robertson, Conservative MP for Tewkesbury, took hospitality for England v Denmark from Entain, a package worth 2,800 from the Betting and Gaming Council for Royal Ascot and another event at Sandown racecourse hosted by Coral.
A sandstone cave in Derbyshire once thought to 18th century 'follies' are actually the remains of a 'near complete' 9th century Anglo-Saxon house, a study revealed.

New analysis of the caves cut out of the soft sandstone was carried out by Wessex Archaeology and the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester, Gloucestershire.

They discovered it is actually an Anglo-Saxon dwelling and oratory that may have once been home to King Eardwulf, who became Saint Hardulph after his death.

Archaeologists undertook a detailed survey of the grade II listed Anchor Church Caves between Foremark and Ingleby in South Derbyshire.

They found that rather than being a folly, a building construction purely for decorative purposes, it was home to the 'oldest intact domestic interior in the UK'.

The interior shows early doors and pillars which survived walls being partially knocked through in the 18th century when the ancient hermitage became an aristocratic party venue

EARDWULF OF NORTHUMBERLAND: KING TURNED SAINT Eardwulf of Northumbria, also known as King Eardwulf, became St Hardulph after his death sometime after 808 CE. He reigned as King of Northumbria between 796 and 806 CE, when he was exiled after being deposed. It isn't clear exactly when he died, although there is some suggestion he had a second reign that may have lasted until 830 CE. No record of his death has ever been recorded, so little is known. It is thought he was buried at the Mercian royal monastery of Breedon on the Hill - dedicated to St Mary and St Hardulph. St Hardulph is closely associated with Eardwulf, and a number of historians believe they are the same man. It is the name given to Eardwulf after his death when he was made a saint. Advertisement

The 1,200 year old building is almost completely, including doors, floor, roof and windows as they would have been when it was first constructed.

The caves, which were cut out of the soft sandstone rock, were examined by the team led by Edmund Simons, principal investigator of the project.

'Our findings demonstrate that this odd little rock-cut building in Derbyshire is more likely from the 9th century than from the 18th century as everyone had originally thought,' he said.

'Using detailed measurements, a drone survey, and a study of architectural details, it was possible to reconstruct the original plan of three rooms and easterly facing oratory, or chapel, with three apses.'

The narrow doorways and windows of the rooms in the dwellings closely resemble Saxon architecture, the team said.

A rock-cut pillar found on the site was similar to those in the Saxon crypt at nearby Repton.

This crypt is believed to have been completed by the Mercian King Wiglaf.

He reigned as King of Mercia, a Kingdom in the English Midlands that was active from the 6th century to the 10th century.

Wiglaf reigned in that kingdom from 827 until his death in 839.

Caves, such as the Anchor Church Caves, are often associated with anonymous medieval hermits or anchorites but, in this case, there is a legendary association between the Anchor Church Caves and Saint Hardulph.

A fragment of a 16th century printed book states that at 'that time Saint Hardulph has a cell in a cliff a little from the Trent' and local folklore identifies these caves as those occupied by Hardulph.

Modern scholarship identifies Hardulph with King Eardwulf who was deposed as king of Northumbria in 806.

Hardulph subsequently visited both Pope Leo III in Rome and Charlemagne's court in Nijmengen and spent the last years of his life exiled in Mercia.

He died in around 830 and was buried at Breedon on the Hill in Leicestershire, just five miles from the caves.

New analysis of the caves cut out of the soft sandstone was carried out by Wessex Archaeology and the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester, Gloucestershire

It is believed that some of the surviving sculpture in the village's Church of St Mary and St Hardulph, which was founded as a monastery in the 7th century, came from his shrine.

'The architectural similarities with Saxon buildings, and the documented association with Hardulph/Eardwulf, make a convincing case that these caves were constructed, or enlarged, to house the exiled king,' said Simons.

'It was not unusual for deposed or retired royalty to take up a take up a religious life during this period, gaining sanctity and in some cases canonisation. Living in a cave as a hermit would have been one way this could have been achieved.

'These cave dwellings have often been overlooked by historians but may be the only intact domestic building to have survived from the Saxon period.

The Saxon crypt at Repton Church, and the burial place of King Wiglaf, which shows similarities to the Anchor Church Caves nearby

'This project has so far identified more than 20 other sites in the West Midlands that could date from as early as the 5th century.'

The area around the village of Repton was the location of intensive Viking activity and, shortly after Hardulph's death, the Vikings set up a winter camp at Repton.

Archaeologists from the RAU have located several locations associated with the Great Heathen Army, some very close to the Anchor Church Caves, suggesting that the caves were probably abandoned at that time.

The archaeologists believe that the caves may have been modified in the 18th century when it was recorded that Sir Robert Burdett (1716-1797) 'had it fitted up so that he and his friends could dine within its cool and romantic cells'.

The exterior of the cave showing what is probably a Saxon door and window.

These changes included the addition of brickwork and window frames, and the opening up of some of wall openings in order that well-dressed ladies could pass.

More archaeological and scientific dating is now planned to confirm the architectural evidence.

Mark Horton, Professor of Archaeology at the RAU who is also running excavations of Viking and Anglo Saxon remains at Repton, said it was an extraordinary discovery.

'It is extraordinary that domestic buildings over 1200 years old survive in plain sight, unrecognised by historians, antiquarians and archaeologists,' he said.

'We are confident that other examples are still to be discovered to give a unique perspective on Anglo Saxon England.'
NASA has announced that it will attempt a 'risky' manoeuvre to fix its 31-year-old Hubble space telescope later today.

Hubble accidentally went offline due to a mysterious glitch on June 13 that took down one of its main computers.

But NASA says it's located the source of the problem  a faulty power regulator in the computer's Power Control Unit (PCU).

It will attempt a switch to a backup PCU staring Thursday (July 15), which, if successful, will bring Hubble back to normal science operations in 'several days'.

Hubble, a joint project of NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), has been observing the universe for over three decades.

Since its launch in April 1990, it's taken more than 1.5 million observations of the universe, and over 18,000 scientific papers have been published based on its data.

It orbits Earth at a speed of about 17,000mph (27,300kph) in low Earth orbit at about 340 miles in altitude, slightly higher than the International Space Station (ISS).

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NASA dismissed fears the Hubble space telescope 'is beyond repair,' insisting there are multiple options to fix it weeks after a computer glitch caused it to shut down. Pictured, astronauts F. Story Musgrave (right) and Jeffrey Hoffman, inside the shuttle payload bay, during Hubble's first servicing mission in 1993

NASA images issued in July 2021 shows the Hubble Space Telescope drifting over Earth on May 19 2009

HUBBLE: FACTS AND STATS Launch: April 24, 1990, from Space Shuttle Discovery (STS-31) Deployment: April 25, 1990 First image: May 20, 1990: Star cluster NGC 3532 Length: 43.5 feet (13.2 m) Weight (at launch): About 24,000 pounds (10,800 kg) Low Earth Orbit: Altitude of 340 miles (295 nautical miles, or 547 km), inclined 28.5 degrees to the equator Time to complete one orbit: About 95 minutes Speed: About 17,000 mph (27,000 kph) Advertisement

NASA outlined the problem and the upcoming salvage attempt in a blog post published on its website on Wednesday.

'NASA has identified the possible cause of the payload computer problem that suspended Hubble Space Telescope science operations on June 13,' it says.

'The telescope itself and science instruments remain healthy and in a safe configuration.'

As NASA explains, the payload computer resides in the Science Instrument Command and Data Handling (SI C&DH) unit, which controls, coordinates and monitors Hubble's science instruments.

'When the payload computer halted, Hubble's science instruments were automatically placed into a safe configuration,' it explains.

'A series of multi-day tests, which included attempts to restart and reconfigure the computer and the backup computer, were not successful.

'But the information gathered from those activities has led the Hubble team to determine that the possible cause of the problem is in the Power Control Unit (PCU).'

Hubble engineers will be switching over to the backup side of the SI C&DH unit that contains the backup PCU.

However, the backup computer, which NASA hopes will solve the issue, hadn't been powered on since it was installed in 2009 during Hubble's last servicing mission.

NASA announced on 14 July 2021, that it has identified the possible cause of the payload computer problem that suspended Hubble Space Telescope science operations on June 13

Pictured, Hubble being deployed from the space shuttle Discovery on April 25, 1990. When Hubble launched from Kennedy Space Center in Florida on the space shuttle discovery in April 1990, the agency said it had an expected lifespan of a decade

Hubble, a joint project of NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), has been observing the universe for over 30 years

WHAT HAS NASA TRIED SO FAR TO FIX THE PROBLEM? June 16: The Hubble operations team attempted to switch to one of several backup memory modules inside the payload computer. June 18: Attempted restart failed and memory module ruled out as cause of shutdown. June 22: Memory issues found to be a symptom of a wider problem. Tests designed to check the Central Processing Module. June 25: An attempt to turn on the backup computer failed to fix the issue. Now investigating the Command Unit/Science Data Formatter. June 30: Further tests of the Science Instrument Command and Data Handling unit which holds the payload computer while also designing a way to switch completely to the backup computer. Advertisement

Safely switching to a backup unit is also a 'very risky process,' NASA previously said.

Earlier this month, the space agency had to dismiss fears from former NASA space shuttle pilot Clayton C Anderson that Hubble is 'beyond repair' or would be decommissioned due to the issue.

NASA insisted there is still life in the telescope, telling MailOnline it has 'multiple redundancies on board and therefore options available to address this issue'.

NASA is 'confident' it can get Hubble back up and running, adding that all on board observation equipment is in 'safe mode' and operating as expected.

Engineers have already tried a range of measures to get it up and running again, including switching to a backup memory module, restarting the machine and turning on a backup version of the payload computer  but none have worked.

Paul Hertz, director of NASA's astrophysics division, told Business Insider last week that the issue is 'almost certainly' to do with Hubble's age.

'Someday, a component will randomly fail that we won't have a backup for,' he said. 'That's the most likely way the Hubble mission will end.'

Meanwhile, FermiLab director and leading physicist Don Lincoln said this 'could be the end of Hubble's story', but told CNN he couldn't discount the ingenuity of NASA engineers.

This isn't the first issue with Hubble; the telescope has had a number of problems requiring repair or hardware backup since it was first launched in 1990.

'The team performed a similar switch in 2008, which allowed Hubble to continue normal science operations after a CU/SDF module failed,' NASA said.

NASA's Hubble Space Telescope captured this image of the famous Pillars of Creation, revealing a sharper and wider view of the structures in this visible-light image

HUBBLE SERVICING MISSIONS - Servicing Mission 1 (STS-61): December 1993 - Servicing Mission 2 (STS-82): February 1997 - Servicing Mission 3A (STS-103): December 1999 - Servicing Mission 3B (STS-109): February 2002 - Servicing Mission 4 (STS-125): May 2009 Advertisement

'A servicing mission in 2009 then replaced the entire SI C&DH unit, including the faulty CU/SDF module, with the SI C&DH unit currently in use.'

Since that 2009 servicing mission, Hubble has taken more than 600,000 additional observations to exceed 1.5 million during its lifetime.

Those observations continue to change our understanding of the universe.

'It's been definitely been one of the most important instruments astronomers have ever had,' Professor Gaensicke from Warwick University told MailOnline.

'Because Hubble is in space  so not affected by the blurry Earth atmosphere  it can take super-sharp pictures, which reveal fine structures otherwise invisible.

'And those pictures are of stunning beauty, too, so Hubble is almost certainly the best-known telescope among the wider community, and many, many people have been admiring the amazing pictures Hubble took.'

Hubble recently marked its 31st anniversary in space, doing so with an image of a giant star that is 'on the edge of destruction'.

Affelia Wibisono, from the UCL Mullard Space Science Laboratory, said Hubble was one of the most successful space missions ever launched.

As well as images of distant galaxies and star clusters, Hubble has given us some of the best and most iconic images of planets in our own solar system including Saturn (pictured)

MAJOR DISCOVERIES MADE USING HUBBLE The Hubble space telescope launched for low Earth orbit in 1990 and has been used to change our understanding of the universe. Captured images of the debris left behind by comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 after it collided with Jupiter.

Hubble provided the first conclusive evidence of the existence of supermassive black holes in the centres of galaxies after observing the galaxy M87.

Measured the elements within the atmosphere of exoplanets, giving insight into worlds beyond our solar system.

Hubble observations revealed the dwarf planet Eris is actually larger than Pluto, a year after it was demoted to dwarf planet status.

Captured images of distant galaxies from when the universe was less than a tenth of its current age.

Helped expand our understanding of how planets formed through observations of proto-planetary discs in distant systems. Advertisement

'It has revolutionised our understanding of the universe  from discovering new moons around Pluto, to taking the first visual image of a planet orbiting a star that is not the Sun,' the PhD student said.

It has also helped us make a 3D map of dark matter, and discover that every galaxy has a black hole at its heart.

'Hubble has made astronomers rewrite textbooks. Without the Hubble Space Telescope, it would be much more difficult for me to do my work in studying Jupiter's northern and southern lights,' Wibisono added.

The US space agency is going to replace the Hubble with $10 billion James Webb Telescope, which has famously been blighted with delays since its development began in the 1990s.

Professor Gaensicke hopes Hubble will be able to continue, even after the upcoming James Webb Space Telescope launches in October.

'The James Webb Telescope, JWST, which should be launched later this year, is often touted as Hubble's successor  which it is not,' he told MailOnline.

'It is more specialised than Hubble, and will only be sensitive to the infrared part of the spectrum, that means light that is so red that human eyes could not see it.

'As such, many of the amazing things Hubble can do, JWST won't be able to carry on.'

When asked if he thinks this is the end of Hubble, Professor Peter Wheatley from the University of Warwick Department of Physics said he 'certainly hopes not.'

'Especially because many of us at Warwick have observations scheduled to be carried out with Hubble,' he told MailOnline.

For the 26th birthday of NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, astronomers are highlighting a Hubble image of an enormous bubble being blown into space by a super-hot, massive star

The Crab Nebula is a supernova remnant in the Milky Way, captured in its beautiful colour and brightness by Hubble

'It is clear, however, that Hubble is beginning to show its age, and we do need to be prepared for that fact that it won't go on forever.

'That is going to be a painful shock, because for most of us Hubble has been operating throughout our careers and we have come to take it granted.

'While other space telescopes have come and gone, Hubble has been a constant presence.'

In the Hubble portrait, the giant red nebula (NGC 2014) and its smaller blue neighbour (NGC 2020) are part of a vast star-forming region in the Large Magellanic Cloud

NASA DELAYS JAMES WEBB TELESCOPE AGAIN NASA has delayed the start of its $10 billion James Webb Telescope again. A NASA spokesperson told DailyMail.com at the start of June that the launch will happen 'no earlier than October 31' this year. 'Webb will ship to the launch site in August with little to no schedule margin,' the NASA spokesperson said in an email to DailyMail.com. 'Launch processing will take two months. The observatory has completed all the post-environmental testing deployments, and it's in its final integration and folding stages. Final stow, closeout, and pack and ship are imminent.' The telescope has suffered numerous delays - when development began in 1996, it was initially scheduled to be ready in 2007. Testing work was delayed again by the Covid pandemic in 2020. Once ready, the telescope will be tasked with detecting potential signatures of life on other planets. Advertisement

When Hubble launched from Kennedy Space Center in Florida on the space shuttle discovery in April 1990, the agency said it had an expected lifespan of a decade.

It is named after famed astronomer Edwin Hubble who was born in Missouri in 1889 and discovered that the universe is expanding, as well as the rate at which it is doing so.

Hubble has the pointing accuracy of .007 arc seconds, which is like being able to shine a laser beam focused the Queen's head on a coin 200 miles (320km) away.

Between 1993 and 2009, astronauts visited Hubble five times to replace limited-life items such as batteries, gyroscopes and electronic boxes, and to install state-of-the-art science instruments.

Each time astronauts visited Hubble, they left it a more capable, more productive observatory that could be managed from the ground.

The first service mission was in December 1993 when Commander Richard Covey and his crew installed devices designed to fix a vision problem caused by a misshaped mirror.

The issue meant that the telescope couldn't focus all the light from an object to a single sharp point, resulting in a fuzzy halo.

Future missions saw the installation of cameras that could see infrared light to allow astronomers to see more distant galaxies.

Other missions were designed to repair issues on board, such as when three gyroscopes failed, and when the solar panels needed to be re-aligned.

The 1999 mission that saw the replacement of gyroscopes also saw the installation of an advanced central computer, a digital data recorder and battery improvements that effectively made the telescope 'good as new'.

Astronaut Kathryn C. Thornton, on the end of the Remote Manipulator System (RMS) arm of the Space Shuttle Endeavor, hovers over equipment on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) during the second space walk on the eleven-day STS-61 mission in December 1993

This is a mosaic of images from Hubble showing a roiling region of star birth in a portion of the Monkey Head Nebula

The last service mission, on Space Shuttle Atlantis in 2009, was the 'most challenging and intense servicing mission', according to the University of Chicago.

It involved five spacewalks to install two new instruments including the famous Wide Field Camera making it 100 times more powerful than when it first launched.

There was also an issue with the systems that command the science instruments, similar to the problems being experienced now with the telescope.

This resulted in a new set of systems, as well as further backups that could be managed from the ground, being installed inside the telescope.

At that last mission they also installed a new device known as the Soft Capture Mechanism to allow a robotic spacecraft to attach itself to Hubble and either push it into the Earth, or boost it to a higher orbit to operate for longer.
The world's first 3D-printed steel footbridge, measuring 40 feet (12 metres) in length, has been installed in Amsterdam.

The bridge, created by a Dutch company called MX3D, has been installed over the Oudezijds Achterburgwal canal in Amsterdam's Red Light District.

More than four years in the making, the S-shaped bridge will act as a 'living laboratory' in the Dutch capital as it handles pedestrian traffic.

Researchers at Imperial College London are involved with assessing the 'performance' of the bridge, which is packed with sensors, as it's being walked on.

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The bridge was recently just installed in Amsterdam and has been unveiled for public use on Thursday

Data collected from the sensors will enable experts to monitor how it changes over its lifespan, such as if the steel yields due to footfall, and measure how the public interacts with the bridge, such as how many people are using it.

'A 3D-printed metal structure large and strong enough to handle pedestrian traffic has never been constructed before,' said Imperial co-contributor Professor Leroy Gardner of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering.

'We have tested and simulated the structure and its components throughout the printing process and upon its completion, and it's fantastic to see it finally open to the public.'

Bird's eye view of the fetching S-shaped bridge with its four 'corner swirls' prior to installation

Researchers will assess the bridge's performance in real-time thanks to a digital twin. A digital twin is as the name suggests - a digital copy of a real-life system or entity

WHAT IS A DIGITAL TWIN? A digital twin is as the name suggests - a digital copy of a real-life system or entity. This could be a car, a building (like an office), a structure such as a bridge or even a jet engine. Connected sensors on the physical asset collect data that can be mapped onto the virtual model. Anyone looking at the digital twin can now see crucial information about how the physical thing is doing out there in the real world. Source: IBM Advertisement

Sensor data will also be put into a 'digital twin' of the bridge  a computerised version that imitates the real-life physical version.

Performance of the physical bridge will be tested against the twin, which will help answer questions about the adequacy of 3D-printed steel and inform future construction projects.

3D-printing uses software to create a three dimensional design before being printed by a robot.

These robots have a nozzle at the end of their arms that emit the printing substance  in this case steel, which is welded on layer by layer.

The mammoth construction effort required 4.5 tonnes of stainless steel to print the bridge into the elaborate, curved design.

The bridge was printed in four main pieces, plus the four 'corner swirls', which were then manually welded together.

According to MX3D, the result is more than just a functional object for the public, but an art installation and a celebration of technology.

Printing began in March 2017 spanned about six months. The completed bridge was put on display at Dutch Design Week in October 2018.

Printing was spread over a period of about six months before its display at Dutch Design Week in October 2018

But the coronavirus pandemic has pushed back installation of the bridge for public use until today.

'3D printing presents tremendous opportunities to the construction industry, enabling far greater freedom in terms of material properties and shapes,' said Professor Gardner.

'This freedom also brings a range of challenges and will require structural engineers to think in new ways.'

The impressive 40-foot (12-metre-long) bridge required 4.5 tonnes of stainless steel. It's pictured here during its transportation in Amsterdam

Imperial experts undertook an ambitious research programme involving cross-section testing, computer modelling and real world testing on the footbridge.

'For over four years we have been working from the micrometre scale, studying the printed microstructure up to the metre scale, with load testing on the completed bridge,' said Dr Dr Craig Buchanan, also at Imperial.

'This challenging work has been carried out in our testing laboratories at Imperial, and during the construction process on site in Amsterdam and Enschede, the Netherlands, on the actual printed bridge.'

Research papers have been published during the construction and testing of the bridge  two in Journal of Constructional Steel Research and Materials & Design last year, and one in Engineering Structures in 2019.
A fragment of linen from the wrap of a 2,300-year-old ancient Egyptian mummy matches a piece found in the US, revealing spells from the Book of the Dead.

The discovery joins two long separated pieces of an ancient shroud together virtually, one from the Getty Institute in California, the other from the University of Canterbury's Teece Museum in New Zealand.

It helps solve part of a long-standing puzzle, allowing experts in ancient Egypt to read the text written on the bandages used to wrap a body in 300 BCE.

Experts were able to link the piece held in Christchurch with the one in Los Angeles after the Teece Museum digitised artefacts from its James Logie Collection.

The small fragment held in New Zealand is one piece of a set of bandages that were torn away from the remains of a man named Petosiris and spread worldwide.

Thanks to online collections, the 'puzzle' of the shroud is coming together, with fragments spread through public and private collections being virtually matched.

Experts say the adjoining pieces of the shroud depict scenes and spells from the Book of the Dead and including writing in Egyptian hieratic script from 300 BCE.

The two fragment from New Zealand and the US have a small piece missing, but combined depict images of butchers cutting up an ox as an offering, as well as men carrying furniture for the after-life

A similar scene occurs at the beginning of the copy of the Book of the Dead on the Turin Papyrus (pictured) suggesting it comes from the Book of the Dead

A LINEN PUZZLE IN MANY PIECES The fragments original came from bandages used to wrap a man called Petosiris when he died. Little is known about the ancient Egyptian other than that his mother was called Tetosiris. Linen fragments were torn away from the remains and spread around the world, although how is a mystery. The shroud originally came from the collection of Charles Augustus Murray, who was British Consul General in Egypt from 1846-63. It later became part of the collection of Sir Thomas Phillips (1883-1966). Pieces then gradually sold at different auctions, winding up in multiple private and museum collections. Thanks to digitisation and moving collections online, researchers are starting to 'digitally rejoin' the shroud. Advertisement

Woven of delicate, pale brown linen, the Logie Collection fragment is kept in storage but is available to scholars, researchers, and students of history and classics.

Classics Associate Professor, Alison Griffith, says there is a small gap between the two fragments, but despite that the scene and incantation 'makes sense'.

'It is just amazing to piece fragments together remotely,' she said.

'Egyptian belief was that the deceased needed worldly things on their journey to and in the afterlife, so the art in pyramids and tombs is not art as such, it's really about scenes of offerings, supplies, servants and other things you need on the other side.'

In earlier periods, the Egyptians wrote directly on the walls of the tomb, however, in the later period they wrote on papyrus and the linen used to wrap bodies.

'It is hard to write on material; you need a quill and a steady hand, and this person has done an amazing job,' Associate Professor Griffith says of the fragment.

It includes images of butchers cutting up an ox as an offering, as well as men carrying furniture for the after-life.

There is also a depiction of four standard bearers with nome signs, the hawk, ibis and jackals, as well as a funerary boat with figures of goddess-sisters Isis and Nepthys on either side, as well as someone pulling a sledge with Anubis.

A similar scene occurs at the beginning of the copy of the Book of the Dead on the Turin Papyrus.

Dr Foy Scalf, Head of Research Archives at the University of Chicago's Oriental Institute, shed more light on the story of the Logie Collection item after learning of its existence and confirming the match.

'Your linen fragment is just one small piece of a set of bandages that were torn away from the remains of a man named Petosiris (whose mother was Tetosiris).

'Fragments of these pieces are now spread around the world, in both institutional and private collections,' he said.

'It is an unfortunate fate for Petosiris, who took such care and expense for his burial. And, of course, it raises all sorts of ethical issues about the origins of these collections and our continued collecting practices.'

A magnified view of the Book of the Dead segment at the Getty Research Institute. The fragment in New Zealand fits in with the torn edge on the bottom

This is the New Zealand fragment that attaches to the bottom of the Getty Institute piece. It is made of finely woven pale brown linen, and dates to the early Ptolemaic period

This Book of the Dead linen fragment that is housed at the Getty Research Institute

As views on the ethics of artefact acquisition have changed considerably, there is renewed interest in how artefacts have been collected, sold, and dispersed around the world, including to countries such as New Zealand.

'That is a whole sub-field of museum studies around the world,' Griffith said.

The Logie Collection fragment was purchased by Professor DA Kidd on behalf of the university in 1972 at a Sotheby's sale in London.

The shroud originally came from the collection of Charles Augustus Murray, who was British Consul General in Egypt from 1846-63, and later became part of the collection of Sir Thomas Phillips (1883-1966).

How the fragments came to be separated, however, remains a mystery.

Detail from the Book of the Dead of the priest Aha-Mer, it was painted on papyrus, tomb walls and on linen fabrics used to wrap the dead

The Turin Papyrus, dating as far back as 1550 BCE, depicts hieroglyphic funerary text similar to those on the shroud fragments in the US and New Zealand

The virtual match of the two fragments has allowed for new translations of the script and further possible connections.

'This shows how valuable our Logie Collection is for teaching and research as we are still able to make new discoveries about these objects. It also shows how valuable it has been to put our collection online,' Terri Elder, curator at the Teece Museum, said.

Already a further potential match has been made with a fragment from the RD Milns collection, at the University of Queensland, Australia.

'The story, like the shroud, is being slowly pieced together,' Elder says.
Irritability, puffy eyes and drowsiness are all well known consequences of not getting enough sleep.

But alarming new graphics reveal some of the other devastating effects it can have on the body, including hallucinations, impaired vision and tremors.

One night of poor sleep causes your brain to function at a slower rate, impacting concentration, while a person's sex drive can also plummet because they are too exhausted to get aroused.

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Difficulty nodding off: Irritability, puffy eyes and drowsiness are all well known consequences of not getting enough sleep (file photo). But now new images reveal other effects on the body

Puffy eyes are also common, along with a difficulty to stay alert and the tendency to react negatively to situations you wouldn't normally do so.

After three nights of sleep deprivation the effects on the body worsen still further.

A person might notice they have a paler complexion because blood vessels can start to constrict to save energy.

Body aches, including your eyes, are also common, as well as low mood and paranoia, hallucinations and impaired vision.

You may even feel detached from your body and more like an observer, experts say, where you lose control over what you think and do.

The CGI representation of what your body might look like if you are sleep deprived was created by Yorkshire-based mattress specialists Otty.

Four different graphics show the damaging impact it can have on your body after 24 hours, three days, one week and one month.

24 hours

Concerning: One night of poor sleep causes your brain to function at a slower rate, impacting concentration, while a person's sex drive can also plummet due to exhaustion

'When the body goes without sleep for 24 hours, it can result in a wide range of adverse symptoms,' said sleep and insomnia expert Hussain Abdeh, whose analysis was used to create the CGI images.

'The most obvious one is drowsiness. Your brain will be functioning at a slower rate, meaning you will struggle to concentrate.

'The most noticeable and common physical symptom to appear after being deprived of sleep for 24 hours is puffiness around the eyes as a result of a water imbalance.

'You will also very likely get dark circles ("bags") under the eyes. This is due to the blood vessels dilating.

'Sex drive can also plummet after just 24 hours of sleep deprivation, due to being too exhausted to feel aroused.

'Because your body is struggling to cope with exhaustion, you will likely have an increased muscle tension, which can cause tremors.'

72 hours

After three nights of sleep deprivation a person might notice they have a paler complexion because blood vessels can start to constrict to save energy. Body aches, including your eyes, are also common, as well as low mood and paranoia, hallucinations and impaired vision

After three days of little-to-no sleep, a person can suffer from hallucinations and a state of dysphoria. The physical effects will start damaging your body, and it could even become difficult to walk or move.

A person's memory will become impaired, and they will have difficulty learning new information or even making decisions.

Alertness decreases and a person can be prone to certain dangerous situations if driving or operating potentially lethal machinery or equipment.

1 week

After a week of little sleep a person's body will be extremely weak. Their skin will become drier and a decrease in the quality of collagen produced by the body can lead to wrinkles

At this point a person's body will be extremely weak, and the brain will be hallucinating in extreme states of paranoia. The skin will also become drier and a decrease in the quality of collagen produced by the body can lead to wrinkles.

'Such a lengthy period of time without sleep can cause a lot of stress to the body,' Abdeh said.

'Getting enough sleep plays a pivotal part in keeping your skin smooth and wrinkle-free.

'Depriving your body of sleep for such a long time will affect the moisture levels in your skin, lowering its PH levels.

'As a result, your skin will be drier due to not being able to produce the moisture it needs, resulting in wrinkles.'

1 month

Following a month surviving solely on microsleep the body is likely to experience rapid weight loss, panic attacks, profuse sweating, sudden menopause for women and impotence for men

While it is not possible to stay alive for a month without sleep, if a person spends that long surviving solely on microsleep, it can also be extremely dangerous.

The body is likely to experience the following complications:

Rapid weight loss

Panic attacks, dementia and hallucinations

Profuse sweating, miosis (very small pupils)

Sudden menopause for women and impotence for men

Constipation as the body desperately tries to retain energy

Abdeh added: 'Such a long period of time without sleep can wear your body down to the point where your immune system can no longer function properly.

'This can put you at an increased risk of various health conditions, including strokes, heart disease, high blood pressure, mental illnesses and type-2 diabetes.

'You are also likely to experience microsleep for longer and more frequent periods. It would not be unusual for you to collapse.'

Some of the most commonly reported symptoms relating to insomnia in the UK are shown here

Effects: Above is a list of the most common search symptoms relating to insomnia worldwide

Around a third of adults in the UK suffer from insomnia and experts say your risk of the condition increases as you get older.

Three telltale signs are difficulty falling asleep, trouble staying asleep and poor sleep quality.

Insomnia is considered 'chronic' when a person experiences difficulty falling or staying asleep for at least three nights a week for three months or more.

A lack of exercise, stress, consuming drinks high in caffeine and overusing electric devices can all trigger bouts of insomnia, while women are more likely to suffer from it than men because hormonal changes and the onset of menopause can interfere with the body's sleep cycle.
The world's first lab-grown foie gras has been created using duck stem cells  and one Michelin-star chef said he can't tell the difference.

It is made by extracting cells from a single, fertilised egg and feeding them the same nutrients a duck would be given, including proteins, amino acids and lipids.

Scientists say the result is similar to traditional foie gras, offering a buttery and delicate taste without the ethical concerns.

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Lab-grown: The world's first lab-grown foie gras (pictured) has been created using duck stem cells. It has been developed by the French startup Gourmey, which is based in Paris

Foie gras: Culinary delight or just plain cruel? Foie gras is made of duck or goose liver. By French law, it is defined as the liver of a duck fattened by force feeding corn. Outside France it is sometimes produced using natural feeding. The technique, known as gavage, dates back as far as 2500 BC when the ancient Egyptians kept birds for food and deliberately fattened them through force feeding. By French law, foie gras is defined as the liver of a duck fattened by force-fed corn France is the largest producer and consumer of foie gras but it is made and consumed around the world - especially in Europe, America and China. In France, foie gras comes in various forms such as whole foie gras which is made of one or two whole liver lobes, or as pieces of livers mixed together. Advertisement

The pate, which is made from the liver of a force-fed duck or goose, has been taboo for years after animal rights activists protested the cruel way it is produced.

However, French startup Gourmey says its lab-grown alternative alleviates these concerns.

The company has not said why it uses duck eggs rather than goose eggs but co-founder and CEO Nicolas Morin-Forest explained how the process works.

'In the egg you have stem cells and they have the capacity to divide and multiply indefinitely, as long as they have a good environment,' he told Sifted.

'We isolate them from the egg and give them a controlled environment that replicates the egg's environment.'

After being fed the same nutrients a duck would be given he said the cells multiply as if they are in the egg.

'Then you adjust the nutrients to trigger the cell type that you want,' Morin-Forest added.

'So if you want liver cells, or muscle cells, you adjust the inputs and the cells react to that. We then harvest muscle cells, fat cells, or liver cells and craft our products.'

An unnamed Michelin-star chef from Aquitaine, the region famed for foie gras, recently tried Gourmey's foie gras and reportedly said he was unable to tell the difference. He also said he would cook with the lab-grown pate.

Gourmey, based in Paris, is one of a growing number of cell-based meat companies hoping to offer more sustainable alternatives to traditional, farmed meat.

Morin-Forest and his team chose foie gras as a proof of concept because it is banned in a number of places, including New York and California.

They hope this means people will be searching for alternatives, and because it is a premium product it should be easier to bring the price of cell-based foie gras closer to the original.

Gourmey, based in Paris, is one of a growing number of cell-based meat companies hoping to offer more sustainable alternatives to traditional, farmed meat

'Foie gras is just the first application of our current know-how,' said Morin-Forest. 'With the same starting cells, we can create any type of poultry meat product.'

The company is eventually hoping to expand beyond gourmet food in an effort to offer sustainable alternatives for global meat demand.

It comes two years after Waitrose began selling a guilt-free alternative to foie gras which was also created in a lab. It is currently priced at 9.50 for 80g.

Although not grown in the way Gourmey's is, Foie Royale is made by taking the liver of ethically-reared ducks or geese and combining it with fat cells in an effort to recreate the unctuous, fatty flavour.

It was created at the Institute of Food Technology in Quakenbruck in Germany after seven years of development.

Speaking about the pate ahead of its launch, Waitrose buying manager David Stone said: 'It's a great-quality product which tastes almost identical to foie gras.'
General Motors is warning owners of some older Chevrolet Bolt EVs to not park their vehicles inside a garage or keep them charged overnight due to fire risk.

The Wednesday announcement includes Bolt EVs made from 2017 through 2019, which were part of a group that was recalled earlier due to batteries catching fire.

The latest request comes after two Bolts that received recall repairs caught fire, one in Vermont and the other in New Jersey, GM spokesman Kevin Kelly told AFP.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also issued the same warning to owners late Wednesday.

General Motors (GM) is warning owners of some older Chevrolet Bolt EVs to not park their vehicles inside or keep them charged overnight due to fire risk. The request comes after two Bolts that received recall repairs caught fire, one in Vermont (pictured) and the other in New Jersey

GM recalled nearly 69,000 Bolt EVs in November 2020 after a number of owners said battery packs under the hood were catching fire.

At the time, GM had told owners to not park their vehicle inside, but the warning of charging it overnight is due to a recent incident in Vermont.

Tim Briglin, whose 2019 Bolt caught fire, said he drove it to work and back home in Thetford, Vermont, on June 30, depleting the battery to around 10 percent of its range.

He plugged it into a 240-volt outdoor charger around 8am ET and left the Bolt in his driveway after the car messaged that it would be fully recharged by 4am ET.

The announcement includes Bolt EVs from 2017 (pictured) through 2019, which were part of a group that was recalled earlier due to batteries catching fire

Around 6:30am ET the next day, Briglin saw smoke coming from the rear of the car and called the fire department.

Briglin said he had the recall repairs done on June 9, and charged his Bolt to 100 percent of its battery capacity the morning of the fire.

The fire in New Jersey happened this week, but no additional information has been released.

GM says its still investigating the fires, and is asking owners who have had recall repair to still take their Bolts in to a dealer.

Tesla has also been plagued with reports of its vehicles catching fire, with the most recent incident on June 30 in Haverford, Pennsylvania.

A brand new Tesla Model S Plaid was on fire as it was parked in the middle of the street.

Tesla is another electric vehicle maker that is plagued with reports of vehicles catching fire, with the most recent incident on June 30 in Haverford, Pennsylvania. A brand new Tesla Model S Plaid was on fire as it was parked in the middle of the street

The Gladwyne Fire Department responded to a call just before 9pm ET and spent three hours tackling the blaze.

An EMT who also responded to the scene said the call came from a resident of the neighborhood who saw the 'Tesla driving up hill while ablaze,' but also notes it cannot be confirmed due to a lack of video evidence.

A spokesperson from the Mark Geragos of Geragos & Geragos law firm confirmed to DailyMail.com that the owner had been trapped inside the vehicle for some time while it was on fire.

The Gladwyne fire department says no injuries occurred, but the Tesla is nothing more than a pile of metal and ash.
An 18-year-old from the Netherlands will become the youngest astronaut ever and the first paying space tourist on a U.S. commercial space flight, Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin announced on Thursday.

Oliver Daemen, a physics student, will join next week's spaceflight on the New Shepard alongside Bezos himself, after his father placed the second place bid and the $28 million winning bidder deferred to a later flight.

He is the son of financier Joes Daemen, the founder and CEO of Dutch private equity firm Somerset Capital Partners, who paid for the seat and chose to let fly Oliver instead.

Oliver took the seat on the July 20 flight after the anonymous winning bidder decided to fly on a future New Shepard mission instead, due to undisclosed scheduling conflicts, Blue Origin said.

'I am super excited to go to space,' Oliver said in a video message. 'I've been dreaming about this all my life and I will become the youngest astronaut ever because I'm 18 years old. I am super excited to experience zero G.'

Blue Origin said on Thursday that 18-year-old physics student Oliver Daemen will take the place of the anonymous bidder to fly to space

Oliver is the son of Joes Daemen (with him above), the founder and CEO of Dutch private equity firm Somerset Capital Partners, who paid for the seat and chose to fly Oliver instead

De 18-jarige Oliver Daemen uit Tilburg wordt de jongste astronaut ooit en de vierde Nederlander in de ruimte. Hij gaat mee met de ruimtereis van #BlueOrigin van #JeffBezos. Oliver is onderweg naar Texas, waar de lancering dinsdag plaatsvindt.https://t.co/hMsJWorRQK pic.twitter.com/5Xl3mqSAJt  Bright (@Bright) July 15, 2021

Pictured: Oliver's mum, Eline Daemen Dekker, and his sister Charlotte

Oliver will be the 'first paying customer' Blue Origin said in an email, flying to the edge of space, alongside Bezos, his brother Mark, aviation pioneer Mary Wallace 'Wally' Funk and two other passengers.

The company said Oliver 'has been fascinated by space, the Moon and rockets since he was four'.

A Blue Origin spokesperson told DailyMail.com they are not disclosing the price paid for Oliver's seat, but confirmed he participated in the auction.

'He was a participant in the auction and had secured a seat on the second flight,' the spokesperson said via email. 'We moved him up when this seat on the first flight became available.'

Oliver is now on his way to Texas, where the launch will take place on Tuesday.

'At 18-years-old and 82-years-young, Oliver Daemen and Wally Funk represent the youngest and oldest astronauts to travel to space,' Blue Origin said in a statement.

GeekWire reported that Oliver graduate from high school last year and took a gap year before continuing working towards his private pilot's license in Spain.

He is due to begin a degree in physics and innovation management at the University of Utrecht in September.

Pictures on Oliver's Instagram account show him surfing, diving and wakeboarding, as well as posing with Dutch DJ Martin Garrix and Belgian-Dutch Formula One driver Max Verstappen.

Oliver's mother, Eline Daemen Dekker, is an ambassador at Somerset Capital Partners Foundation and volunteers with a programme to combat loneliness among the elderly. She previously worked as a cabin crew member for KLM for five years.

The Bezos-founded Blue Origin said the winner of last month's public auction is unable to go into space on July 20 'due to scheduling conflicts' and wishes 'to remain anonymous at this time.'

DailyMail.com has reached out to Blue Origin to understand the nature of the winning bidder's 'scheduling conflict.'

'We thank the auction winner for their generous support of Club for the Future and are honored to welcome Oliver to fly with us on New Shepard,' said Bob Smith, CEO of Blue Origin in a statement.

Joes Daemen, the Dutch financier, paid for the ticket and is letting his son fly in his place

Oliver is a physics student in the Netherlands and is 'super excited' to fly in space

Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to carry humans on the New Shepard rocket into space on July 20

'This marks the beginning of commercial operations for New Shepard, and Oliver represents a new generation of people who will help us build a road to space.'

The auction gift has allowed Club for the Future to donate $1 million each to 19 non-profit organizations, which are all supporting living and working in space.

The winner of the auction beat 20 other participants in a bidding spree that auction in late May and wrapped up with a 10-minute online bidding frenzy in late June, livecast by Blue Origin.

The July 20 launch - which coincides with the anniversary of the moon landing - will be the first test of Blue Origin's New Shepard rocket with people on board, kicking off the company's space tourism business.

Blue Origin named the New Shepard program after astronaut Alan Shepard, who was the first American to fly into space exactly 60 years ago.

Fifteen previous test flights of the reusable rocket, which brings the capsule to an altitude of more than 340,000 fleet, and capsule since 2015 - short hops lasting about 10 minutes - were all successful.

Bezos, the world's wealthiest man and a lifelong space enthusiast, is racing against fellow billionaires Richard Branson and Elon Musk in what the media has described as 'the billionaire space race.'

Bezos, his brother Mark, aviation pioneer Mary Wallace 'Wally' Funk, Daemen and two other passengers are now set to liftoff from West Texas and travel just beyond the edge of space

On Monday, Blue Origin received approval Monday from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to carry humans on the New Shepard rocket into space on July 20.

New Shepard, which stands 60 feet tall, was specifically designed for Blue Origin's space tourism venture and has successfully completed 15 test launches, with the latest on April 14.

The capsule that rides atop New Shepard seats six passengers and is equipped with reclining seats.

Each of the seats has a window that are said to the 'the largest to fly into space.'

Cameras line the interior, allowing travelers to share their memories that are truly out of this world.

The crew is set to travel 62 miles above Earth's surface, where they will experience weightlessness due to the zero gravity and see the curve of the planet with the darkness of space as the backdrop.

Blue Origin's maiden voyage will, however, travel farther than Branson's who reached an altitude of 53.5 miles over the New Mexico desert before gliding safely back to Earth.

It is not clear how long they will spend just beyond the edge of space, but Blue Origin has stated in the past that paying customers will spend as much as 10 minutes in zero gravity before returning to Earth.

The billionaire space race is fueled by optimism that space travel will become mainstream as nascent technology is proven and costs fall, fueling what UBS estimates could be a $3 billion annual tourism market by 2030.

The capsule that rides atop New Shepard seats six passengers and is equipped with reclining seats

Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic, as well as Musk's SpaceX, have also discussed using their rockets to link far-flung global cities.

UBS says that long-haul travel market could be worth more than $20 billion, though several barriers such as air-safety certification could derail the plans.

Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas said: 'Putting the world's richest man and one of the most recognized figures in business into space is a massive advertisement for space as a domain for exploration, industrialization and investment.'

Blue Origin has not divulged its pricing strategy for future trips.

In 2018 that Blue Origin was planning to charge passengers at least $200,000 for the ride, based on a market study and other considerations, though its thinking may have changed.

Washington state-based Blue Origin is largely self funded by Bezos, who has been selling over $1 billion worth of stock in Amazon per year to fund the company.

The company recently conducted its first astronaut rehearsal in preparation for sending the first manned New Shepard into space.

The mock crew traveled the designated path of future spacefaring tourists, which included traveling to the launch pad and climbing up the tower to the passenger capsule.

While celebrities and the uber-rich appear to be a core market for space tourist jaunts, at least initially, industry sources expect Blue Origin to include some philanthropic component to its ticket strategy.

The idea of sending paying customers to the edge of space was once only a plot in science fiction films, but many companies other than Blue Origin are turning the epic journey into a reality.
In the highly structured hyena society, when the higher-ranking mothers have children, they pass on social networks to their daughters, according to a new study.

They live in groups that can grow to more than 100, but within their clans there is an order, and the females are in charge, say University of Pennsylvania biologists.

Earlier studies have looked at the social structure of hyenas and other animals, but this new work analysed 27 years of detailed observations of hyena behaviour.

Their findings show that, much like in human society the 'well-to-do' pass on useful connections to their children, the same happens in hyena society.

Those of a higher-rank are more likely to pass on friends, acquaintances and other useful connections than those lower down the clan's social ladder.

'That is kind of intuitive because things like that happen in human society as well,' the authors explained, adding that people often inherit their connections.

Daughters of the hyena elite also lived longer, likely due to being 'cared for' over a longer period of time by a more close network of friends and family.

In the highly structured hyena society, when the higher-ranking mothers have children, they pass on social networks to their daughters, according to a new study

They live in groups that can grow to more than 100, but within their clans there is an order, and the females are in charge, say University of Pennsylvania biologists

KEY FINDINGS: HYENAS FROM HIGH-RANKING MUMS BETTER PLACED In spotted hyena societies, inherited social networks  passed from mothers to offspring  are essential to hyena life and survival, according to a new study. While the structure of animal social networks plays an important role in all social processes as well as health, survival and reproductive success, the general mechanisms that determine social structure in the wild remain unknown. One proposed model, termed social inheritance, suggests that an offsprings social affiliations tend to resemble those of their parents, particularly those of the mother. Previous research has indicated that these inherited social networks may influence social structure across generations in multiple species. The new study found that the social relationships of juvenile hyenas are similar to those of their mothers and that the degree of similarity increases with the mothers social rank. Whats more, the results show that the strength of the maternal relationship affects social inheritance and is also positively correlated with the long-term survival for both mother and offspring. The findings suggest that selection for social inheritance might play an essential role in shaping hyena social behaviour and the fitness of individual hyenas. Advertisement

It was already known that rank was inherited from the mother, but the new study found affiliative, friendly interactions were also passed from mother to daughter.

They built on a theoretical model of 'social network inheritance' developed by the same team in 2016, which suggests animals establish their networks through a process of 'social inheritance' or by copying their mother's behaviours.

The model fit well with snapshots of real-world social networks from not only hyenas but also three other social species: bottle-nosed dolphins, rock hyrax, and lizards.

In the new work, the team aimed to refine their model to better understand the intricacies of social inheritance in hyenas.

'We knew that the social structure of hyenas is based in part on one's rank in the agonistic hierarchy, which we know is inherited from mothers' says Erol Akcay, a study coauthor and associate professor in Penn's School of Arts & Sciences.

'But what we found, that affiliative, or friendly interactions, are also inherited, hadn't been shown.'

'This is a very simple process of social inheritance that we show works very, very well,' says Amiyaal Ilany, a senior lecturer at Israel's Bar-Ilan University.

'Individuals that were born to higher rank are more accurate in their inheritance, and they have good reason to do so.

'It fits well with what is already known about inheritance of rank. There are very strict rules about what place you sit in the hierarchy if you are a hyena.'

'We realised we could use that dataset to directly test our model, to see if social ties are inherited or not,' Akcay said.

Field biologists from Michigan State University had meticulously tracked how hyenas in a clan interacted, including who spent time with whom as well as the social rank of each member.

To do so they spent months getting to know each member of the clan by sight, tracking tens of thousands of interactions.

These observations allowed the team to map out hyenas' social networks based on which individuals spent time close together.

'This use of proximity to track social networks isn't possible with humans, as two strangers might randomly get into an elevator together,' Ilany explained.

'But with hyenas, if one individual gets within a few meters of another, that suggests that they have a social connection.'

With this picture of each individual's social affiliations in hand, the researchers compared the social networks of mothers to their offspring.

Hyena cubs stick close to their mothers for the first couple years of life, so the networks of mothers and their offsprings were quite similar to start.

Earlier studies have looked at the social structure of hyenas and other animals, but this new work analysed 27 years of detailed observations of hyena behaviour

However, the researchers noticed that even as the young stopped spending so much time in close proximity to their mothers they still sustained quite similar networks, particularly for female offspring, who generally remain members of the clan for life.

This close similarity between networks of mother and offspring remained, in some cases, for as long as six years.

'You may not be seeing your mother as often, or she even may have died, but you still have similar friends,' the authors explained.

This pattern was especially strong for the higher-ranking mothers, for whom social inheritance was the strongest in the group.

Offspring of lower-ranking mothers were less likely to reproduce their mother's social networks, perhaps trying to compensate for their more lowly origins by associating with a greater variety of individuals.

There was no genetic inheritance of rank or close associates, said zoologist Kay Holekamp of Michigan State University, who led the data gathering.

Those of a higher-rank are more likely to pass on friends, acquaintances and other useful connections than those lower down the clan's social ladder

One of the most remarkable things about the phenomenon documented here is that the youngsters' relationships with their mothers' close associates are all learned very early in life, Holekamp said, rather than an inherited behaviour.

'Rank is super important,' says Akcay. 'If you're born to a lower-ranked mother, you are less likely to survive and to reproduce.'

They said social network inheritance likely contributes to a group's stability and also has implications for how behaviours are learned and spread through groups.

The study also underscores how factors other than genetics hold sway in key evolutionary outcomes, including reproductive success and overall survival.

'A lot of things that are considered by default to be genetically determined may depend on environmental and social processes,' says Ilany.

The team reported their findings in the journal Science.
Wildlife officials have captured a female grizzly bear in Washington state for the first time in 40 years, attaching a radio collar to the massive mammal to track its movements, officials said Thursday.

The grizzly, which is of a yet-to-be-determined age, along with her three cubs, were released to help biologists learn more about the endangered animals, the state Department of Fish and Wildlife said.

Biologists from the US Fish and Wildlife Service captured the bear roughly 10 miles (16 kilometers) from the Washington-Idaho state line on US Forest Service land, near Metaline Falls.

In this July 15, 2021, remote game camera image released by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, a first for Washington state, wildlife biologists recently captured and fitted a female grizzly bear with a radio collar (far left)

Biologists from the US Fish and Wildlife Service captured the bear roughly 10 miles (16 kilometers) from the Washington-Idaho state line on US Forest Service land, near Metaline Falls

Metaline Falls is near the Selkirk Grizzly Bear Recovery Zone in a remote area of the Selkirk Mountains. This is one of six recovery zones in the US that have been laid out as part of a federal recovery plan for the bears

Comparisons of 2 styles of implant and collar transmitters used on black bears in Washington. The upper implant transmitter weighs 165 grams and the lower transmitter weighs 175 grams

The three cubs ran into the nearby woods as biologists performed a general health check on the mother and fitted her collar, then returned after the people left, the state agency said.

'Grizzly bears once occupied much of the Cascade and Selkirk Ranges, but their numbers were severely reduced as a result of persecution by early settlers and habitat degradation,' said Rich Beausoleil, a biologist with the state, told the Associated Press.

'Grizzly bear recovery started in 1981 and it took 40 years to confirm the first known female in Washington.'

Although there are only around 100 grizzlies in the Selkirk part of Idaho and less than 20 in the North Cascades in Washington, experts started seeing images of them on cameras inside the Selkirk Grizzly Bear Recovery Zone in a remote area of the Selkirk Mountains.

This is one of six recovery zones in the US that have been laid out as part of a federal recovery plan for the bears, which can live up to 25 years in the wild.

The other five recovery zones are Northern Continental Divide, Yellowstone, Cabinet-Yaak, Selway-Bitterroot and North Cascades.

In March, grizzly bears remained endangered in the contiguous 48 states under the Endangered Species Act. They are also classified as an endangered species in Washington state.

They have been spotted in area such as Idaho, northeastern Washington and as far north as southeastern British Columbia.

The population there is considered healthy, and is growing about 3 percent a year, officials said.

Female grizzlies weigh between 290 and 400 pounds, while males are significantly larger and can reach up to 790 pounds

Female grizzlies weigh between 290 and 400 pounds, while males are significantly larger and can reach up to 790 pounds.

They can reach up to six and half feet in length and have an average shoulder height of just over 3 feet.

It's believed there are roughly 55,000 grizzly bears in the wild in North America, with more than half of that population in Alaska. Approximately 2,000 are in the lower 48 states, with around 1,000 in northwestern Montana.

Biologists believe the recently collared female lives in the area, and is not a bear from outside of Washington state.

'A group of bears - a mother and three cubs - were photographed on another occasion on a game camera in the same area three to four weeks prior to the capture,' said Wayne Kasworm, a grizzly bear biologist with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

'The natal collar - the white ring around the neck - of one of the cubs leads us to believe this is the same family of bears.'

Four adult males were captured in 1985, 2016 and 2018, but this was the first instance of a female capture, the state agency said.

'Currently there are believed to be at least 70 to 80 grizzly bears in the Selkirk Grizzly Bear Recovery Zone,' Kasworm said. 'About half those bears live on the Canadian side of the border, with the other half on the U.S. side.'

The state agency works collaboratively with federal wildlife officials to monitor grizzly bear survival, reproduction, home range use, food habits, genetics, and causes of death.
Jesinta Franklin (nee Campbell) has admitted to inadvertently using offensive language when referring to Indigenous Australians in the past.

The 29-year-old model, who is married to Aboriginal AFL player Lance 'Buddy' Franklin, told the August issue of Marie Claire Australia she previously made the mistake of referring to people as 'half' or 'quarter' Indigenous.

She said she used the 'half' and 'quarter' terminology - which many Indigenous Australians find offensive - while attending Australia Day events.

'You apologise and do better': Buddy Franklin's wife Jesinta has admitted to inadvertently using offensive language when referring to Indigenous Australians. Pictured in 2017

'I know I'm not always going to say the right thing but we can't let the fear of asking the wrong questions stop us from having conversations,' she added.

'If you get something wrong, admit it, apologise and actively do better.'

Jesinta went on to say she often seeks guidance from members of the Indigenous community before discussing certain topics.

Offensive: The 29-year-old model, who is married to Aboriginal AFL player Lance 'Buddy' Franklin, previously made the mistake of referring to people as 'half' or 'quarter' Indigenous

She also acknowledged that her children, daughter Tullulah, 17 months, and son Rocky, four months, are likely to experience racism in their lives.

'As parents, we're trying to raise Lulu and Rocky to be resilient and to stand up for themselves,' she said.

'It's heartbreaking to know they will face prejudice and racism at some stage in their lives - it's not about if, it's about when - but they'll know that kind of behaviour isn't okay.'

Sad truth: She also acknowledged that her children, daughter Tullulah, 17 months, and son Rocky, four months, are likely to experience racism in their lives

The former Miss Universe Australia said she's 'guided' on Aboriginal issues by her 34-year-old husband.

But she has 'also taken the initiative to educate myself' as a mother of Indigenous children.

Jesinta added that she wants her kids to be connected to their culture, and hopes to 'be the best mum to our First Nations babies and the best ally I can be'.
Liam Hemsworth is one of Australia's hottest expats.

However, it appears the 31-year-old Hollywood hunk doesn't tickle the fancy of former Bachelor star Abbie Chatfield.

Posting to her Instagram Stories on Wednesday, the 26-year-old raised eyebrows when she said she didn't believe The Hunger Games star was 'a vibe'.

In HER dreams! Bachelor reject Abbie Chatfield claims that Liam Hemsworth 'is not a vibe' and boldly said she would decline his offer if he asked her out

'Guys, you all know, I mean... I don't dislike him, but Liam Hemsworth to me is not a vibe,' she said to the camera.

Abbie also made the bold statement that if Liam were to ever ask her out, she would reject him.

'If he asked me out, would I go? No, no,' she insisted.

The red haired star then tried to backtrack by saying that she'd 'consider it'.

Her comments came in response to a fan who asked her if she'd 'mazzed', which is the colloquial term for masturbated, to the Aussie actor's iconic shirtless scene in film The Dressmaker.

Alright then: 'Guys, you all know, I mean... I don't dislike him, but Liam Hemsworth to me is not a vibe,' she said to the camera

Make up your mind! The red haired star then tried to backtrack by saying that she'd 'consider it'

Already taken: Meanwhile, Liam is currently in a relationship with Australian model Gabriella Brooks (both pictured)

Abbie recently admitted to struggling being on her own as Sydney enters its third week in lockdown amid an outbreak of coronavirus.

Speaking on her podcast, It's A Lot with Abbie Chatfield on Monday, she said lockdown had taken a toll on her mentally.

'Being in lockdown has been f**king awful. I just want to say it's literally hell on Earth living alone during a lockdown. I cry literally every day,' she confessed at the time.

All alone: The former Bachelor star recently admitted to struggling being on her own as Sydney enters its third week in lockdown amid an outbreak of coronavirus

She said she even 'had a meltdown' while watching The Bold Type, a US comedy-drama series about a group of young women working at a fashion magazine.

The I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! winner acknowledged that the show is 'not that sad', but said she was 'sobbing' while watching it.

'It's f**king weird, because my only friends right now are people on TV. That's really fun,' she said facetiously.

Isolation: Speaking on her podcast, It's A Lot with Abbie Chatfield on Monday, the 26-year-old former Bachelor star said lockdown had taken a toll on her mentally

'Particularly with someone who has really bad anxiety. I've been vomiting from panic attacks... It's really bad. I'm not in a good way. Lockdown is not fun obviously.'

Abbie said that she thought part of the issue was knowing that she was unable to see her mother, who lives in Brisbane.

She explained that even when the lockdown eventually ends, it won't be like she can simply drive over to her mum's house.

'It's like, oh, I actually need to wait for the borders to open, and that's probably going to be two months until I see Mum. That sucks,' she added.

Abbie said she had also 'stopped watching porn simultaneously', and added that she 'can't come'.

She said it had been tough, because prior to lockdown, she was having 'some of the best sex of my life', calling it 'iconic, really good sex'.

Not in the mood: Abbie said she had also 'stopped watching porn simultaneously', and added that she 'can't come'

Under current restrictions, people in Sydney and surrounding areas can only leave home if they have 'a reasonable excuse'.

Only one person per household may leave to shop for food and other essential items, and people cannot travel more than 10 kilometres outside their area.

People can exercise with one other person not within their household, and masks are compulsory indoors, including in common areas of apartment buildings.
She recently retreated from the public eye to focus on her family amid her rift with her grandfather Bob Irwin Snr.

And Bindi Irwin looked every inch the doting mother on Wednesday as she shared new photos with her three-month-old daughter Grace Warrior.

The sweet pictures showed Bindi, 22, cradling her little girl while eating breakfast with her 24-year-old husband Chandler Powell.

'Smiles at breakfast with this happy little light': Bindi Irwin looked every inch the doting mum on Wednesday as she shared new photos with her three-month-old daughter Grace Warrior

Chandler wrote on Instagram: 'Smiles over breakfast with this happy little light.'

The proud dad smiled next to Grace, who sat on the table in a onesie and a bib.

The former professional wakeboarder also shared another image of his little girl wrapped up in a beanie and koala onesie.

Daddy's girl: Proud dad Chandler smiled next to Grace, who sat on the table in a onesie and bib

Too cute! The former professional wakeboarder also shared another image of his little girl wrapped up in a beanie and koala onesie

Bindi's return to Instagram comes after she exposed her feud with her grandfather.

Last month, she addressed her strained relationship with Bob Snr, 82, in a scathing Facebook post, claiming he had 'no interest in spending time with me or my family'.

After her claims went viral, Bindi said she was taking a break from social media.

Rift: Bindi's return to Instagram comes after she exposed her feud with her grandfather Bob Irwin Snr (right)

She wrote: 'Hi guys, Just a note to say thank you for your support. I'm taking a break from social media and most of my work in the public eye for a month to be with my beautiful daughter and my wonderful family.

'I feel tremendously grateful to share our life and conservation work with you but I need some time to focus on the happiness that is my family (both human and animal).

'You can keep up with our adventures by following my family and Australia Zoo on social media.'

Bindi and Chandler announced their daughter's birth on March 26, just one day after she was born on their first wedding anniversary.
She is known for her quirky sense of fashion.

And Tilda Swinton was sure to turn heads as she and her stylish daughter Honor Swinton Byrne, 23, arrived at the Paris, 13th District screening on Wednesday.

The Snowpiercer star, 60, wore an oversized white shirt which she paired with flared black trousers for her red carpet outing during Cannes Film Festival.

Quirky: Tilda Swinton was sure to turn heads on the red carpet as she and her daughter Honor Swinton Byrne arrive at the Paris 13th District screening on Wednesday

Tilda completed the look with black pointed toe heels which peeked out from under her oversized trousers.

She styled her signature blonde locks in a quiff and keeping make-up to a minimal she rocked a red lip.

Joining the Scottish actress for the glitzy night out was her daughter Honor, who showcased her toned pins in a wrap skirt.

The Souvenir actress looked stylish in a black miniskirt with white stars which she paired with fishnet tights.

Wow! The Snowpiercer star, 60, wore an oversized white shirt which she paired with flared black trousers during Cannes Film Festival

Pose: Scottish actress walked the red carpet with her daughter who looked showcased her toned pins

Honor wore a black shacket with a white checkered pattern, the top exposed her toned midriff.

She completed her look with black open toe heels and her blonde locks were in a half pony tail.

The pair exuded confidence on the red carpet and in a sweet moment the mother and daughter held hands for a few snaps before heading inside.

Style: Tilda completed the look with black pointed toe heels which peeked out from under her oversized trousers

Beautiful: She styled her signature blonde locks in a quiff and keeping make-up to a minimal she rocked a red lip

Cute: In a sweet moment, the mother and daughter held hands for a few snaps before heading inside

Fashion: The Souvenir actress looked stylish in a black miniskirt with white stars which she paired with fishnet tights

Must see: Jacques Audiards anticipated movie Paris 13th District (Les Olympiades) was shot in the French capital during the pandemic

The 74th Cannes Film Festival is in full swing, after it was cancelled amid the coronavirus pandemic last year.

Jacques Audiards anticipated movie Paris 13th District (Les Olympiades) was shot in the French capital during the pandemic.

The French black and white drama follows Emilie, Camille, Nora and Amber  four young adults who are friends and sometimes lovers.

The film showcases talented up and coming actors Lucie Zhang, Makita Samba and Jehnny Beth and Noemie Merlan.
Convicted drug smuggler 'Cocaine Cassie' Sainsbury has confirmed she plans to become a reality star when she returns to Australia.

The 26-year-old said on Wednesday's Kyle and Jackie O Show she intends to follow in Schapelle Corby's footsteps, admitting any reality series would be 'a blast'.

Cassie spent three years in Colombia's notorious El Buen Pastor prison after being convicted of smuggling 5.8kg of cocaine hidden inside headphones in April 2017.

Following in Schapelle's footsteps: Convicted drug smuggler 'Cocaine Cassie' Sainsbury has confirmed her plans to become a reality star when she returns home to Australia

She was released from custody last year to serve the remainder of her six-year sentence on parole in Bogota due to jail overcrowding amid the Covid pandemic.

Radio host Kyle Sandilands, 50, said: 'We should do a reality show with Cassie... are you up for any reality shows, or anything like that?'

'I am definitely up for reality shows. I think it would be a blast,' she giddily replied.

'Get on to them, people!' co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson said.

TV star: Schapelle Corby spent nine years in Bali's Kerobokan Prison for smuggling marijuana in 2004. She was paroled in 2014, and deported to Australia in 2017. Pictured on SAS Australia

Due to coronavirus restrictions, it's not yet known when Cassie will be able to return to Australia when her parole ends next year.

'I'm definitely counting down the days until I can go home,' said Cassie, a former fitness trainer from Adelaide.

'My parole finishes in May next year, but currently with the situation because Ive been denied my right to work here, and with Covid and everything, theres a possible chance, the judge is studying my case, to send me home,' she added.

Schapelle Corby spent nine years in Bali's Kerobokan Prison for smuggling marijuana in 2004. She was paroled in 2014, and deported back to Australia in 2017.

Since her release, she has appeared on reality shows SAS Australia and Dancing with the Stars, which both aired on Channel Seven.

Reality star: Schapelle Corby also appeared on Dancing with the Stars earlier this year

Conviction: Sainsbury was caught with 18 bags of cocaine at Bogota airport in April 2017. Above, a police photo of the evidence

Elsewhere in the interview, Jackie touched upon Schapelle's experience in jail and compared how the two must be feeling.

'Schapelle has had a very different experience to you, and spent a lot longer in prison - when she came in to see us for an interview, her mental health suffered greatly from her experience,' Jackie said.

'How are you dealing with it?'

'There's moments where it's difficult,' Cassie explained. 'Sometimes I'll randomly start feeling down, I'll feel like an absolute failure in this lifetime.

'What helped me on the inside... there were some people who made me see a different side of it, and explained that there are other people worse off.'
Nicky Whelan and boyfriend Frank Grillo have been inseparable since getting together last year.

And on Tuesday, the couple looked stronger than ever as they stepped out together in Los Angeles for the premiere of Nicholas Cage's new film Pig.

Nicky, 40, looked stylish in an orange blouse and a pair of chequered trousers.

Happy couple: Nicky Whelan and Frank Grillo stepped out together in Los Angeles for the premiere of Nicholas Cage's new film Pig on Tuesday

She had natural makeup on and wore her shoulder-length blonde hair out.

Marvel star Frank, 56, put on a flashy display in a velour, unbuttoned shirt and a pair of gold snakeskin boots.

Nicolas produced and stars as chef-turned-solitary truffle forager Rob in the Oregon-set drama thriller Pig.

Flashy: Marvel star Frank, 56, put on a flashy display in a velour, unbuttoned shirt and a pair of gold snakeskin boots

Michael Sarnoski's feature directorial debut has already scored an impressive 96% critic approval rating (out of 27 reviews) on Rotten Tomatoes.

The flick also features Nina Belforte, Gretchen Corbett, Julia Bray, Darius Pierce, and Elijah Ungvary.

Nicky confirmed her romance with Frank in August last year.

Style: Nicky, 40, looked stylish in an orange blouse and a pair of chequered trousers

She left Neighbours in 2007 after one year on the show, and has gone on to star in a number of successful Hollywood films such as Hall Pass and The Wedding Ringer.

Meanwhile, her boyfriend Frank is busy with his acting career and has a number of projects coming up.

They include multiple projects with Bruce Willis, like Cosmic Sin and A Day to Die.
The Two Ronnies: Ronnie Corbett's Lost Tapes

Rating:

This Way Up

Rating:

A distinctive laugh is part of a successful joker's comic arsenal. Jimmy Carr sounds like a seal with its flipper stuck in a door. Michael McIntyre giggles like a five-year-old girl.

But for other comedians, hearing one of those unmistakable laughs in the audience must turn the blood cold.

There's a recording of Frankie Howerd at the Establishment Club in Soho, from a comeback gig in the early 1960s (Frankie spent his career going away and coming back). One nasal bray keeps cutting through the crowd  it's Kenneth Williams, and he's sozzled.

Rob Brydon suffered a similar heart-stopper at a gig on the Edinburgh Fringe. The laugh echoing from the back was simple yet instantly recognisable. 'Hah! Hah! Ha-ah!' it went. Everyone started turning round to stare. Ronnie Corbett was in the house.

Anyone who watches Would I Lie To You? knows Brydon has a Pavlovian reaction to Ronnie's name. The first mention of it sends him into a paroxysm of impressions.

Corbett's generosity to other comedians was legendary. But his private life as a family man was less known. Pictured: Ronnie Corbett and Ronnie Barker

Rob, speaking on The Two Ronnies: Ronnie Corbett's Lost Tapes (ITV), remembered the night... and how he started telling one of the star's own gags  about his grandad who died at the Battle of Little Bighorn.

Far from being aggrieved, Ronnie joined in from the stalls with the punchline: 'He wasn't fighting, he was camping in the next field and went over to complain about the noise.'

Corbett's generosity to other comedians was legendary. But his private life as a family man was less known. This retrospective, coloured with snatches of home movies showing Ronnie playing with his daughters, Emma and Sophie, revealed his charm off-screen.

The fact the pictures were on cine film, filled with flickering colours and sunlight flares, made them seem 'much more like a memory', Brydon said perceptively.

Since his death five years ago, his widow Anne hasn't been able to watch the footage, until now. As her husband danced into the frame, showing off his tan during a holiday to Portugal in 1969, she couldn't help saying: 'Hello, darling.'

He was always shy about telling her he loved her. She told him, when he wanted to murmur something sweet, to say: 'Ambrosia Creamed Rice.' 'ACR' became a code between them.

Nothing we discovered will alter our view of Ronnie very much: what mattered to his family will be sidenotes to his fans  he liked colourful shirts, he could be a stern taskmaster.

Since his death five years ago, his widow Anne hasn't been able to watch the footage, until now. As her husband danced into the frame, showing off his tan during a holiday to Portugal in 1969, she couldn't help saying: 'Hello, darling'

But these details fill out our understanding of a cherished entertainer. It's good to know that, much as millions admired him, he was most loved at home.

If Sharon Horgan carries on the way she's going, she'll end up a national treasure, too. The star of Catastrophe and co-writer of Motherland plays Shona, the patient, lonely sibling to an overwrought and needy Aisling Bea in This Way Up (C4).

The two women share such an edgy, sisterly friendship that it's hard to believe they haven't grown up together in real life. Bea plays Aine, desperate for a love affair with her employer, Richard (Tobias Menzies)  a widower who has to turn his late wife's photograph face down before he can take her to bed.

What with the kinky exploits on C5's Lie With Me, this has been quite a week for graphic sex scenes. Aine's ended with her weeping uncontrollably.

'That was lovely,' she sobbed, though her plea that these were 'happy tears' rang hollow.

'Sometimes,' Shona tells Aine, 'you talk like you're the only one who's ever sad. And it's annoying.' This Way Up has jokes, but it's the pain behind the comedy that lingers.

Drunken sailors of the night: Bruno Tonioli and Craig Revel Horwood joined in with Cornwalls singing Fishermans Friends for a sea shanty on their Great British Road Trips (ITV).

Hoo-ray and Upsy-Daisy, sang Bruno. Up she rises, surely?
Seven-time Grammy winner Madonna held hands with her toyboy Ahlamalik Williams at JFK Airport in New York on Tuesday.

At 62, the Queen of Pop is 35 years older than the Sacramento dancer, whom she began dating in 2018.

Madonna - rocking her favorite braided hairstyle - was dressed down in a black cartoon-print hoodie with matching shorts beneath a winter parka and booties.

Still going strong! Seven-time Grammy winner Madonna held hands with her toyboy Ahlamalik Williams at JFK Airport in New York on Tuesday

Ahlamalik was only 20 years old when the self-made superstar hired him in 2015 to dance in her 82-date, $169.8M-grossing Rebel Heart Tour.

Madge (last name Ciccone) and Williams were also joined in the bustling terminal by her 15-year-old children, Mercy James and David Banda.

On Monday, the Material Girl polled her fans to help her decide whether she should celebrate her 63rd birthday on August 16 in Lisbon or Rio de Janeiro.

Meanwhile, Madonna's daughter Lourdes 'Lola' Leon shared a video of herself on Monday dancing on a hiking trail.

May-December duo: At 62, the Queen of Pop is 35 years older than the Sacramento dancer, whom she began dating in 2018

Masked up: Madonna - rocking her favorite braided hairstyle - was dressed down in a black cartoon-print hoodie with matching shorts beneath a winter parka and booties

Former employee: Ahlamalik was only 20 years old when the self-made superstar hired him in 2015 to dance in her 82-date, $169.8M-grossing Rebel Heart Tour (pictured June 24)

A or B? On Monday, Madge polled her fans to help her decide whether she should celebrate her 63rd birthday on August 16 in Lisbon or Rio de Janeiro

The 24-year-old choreographer - who studied dance at the University of Michigan and SUNY Purchase - bared her belly in a black bra-top and pattered pants.

Lola's video was shot by her longtime friend Anna Pollack, who also co-directed the commercial for her Stella McCartney x Adidas FW/20 capsule collection.

The half-Cuban beauty is the twice-divorced mother-of-six's eldest and only child from her two-year relationship with Belleon Body co-creator Carlos Leon, which ended in 1997.

Showing off her moves: Meanwhile, the Material Girl's daughter Lourdes 'Lola' Leon shared a video of herself on Monday dancing on a hiking trail

Interpretive: The 24-year-old choreographer - who studied dance at the University of Michigan and SUNY Purchase - bared her belly in a black bra-top and patterned pants

Gal pals: Lola's video was shot by her longtime friend Anna Pollack, who also co-directed the commercial for her Stella McCartney x Adidas FW/20 capsule collection

'[Lola] is insanely talented. I'm green with envy because she's incredible at everything she does  she's an incredible dancer, she's a great actress, she plays the piano beautifully, she's way better than me in the talent department,' Madonna gushed to British Vogue back in 2019.

'But she doesn't have the same drive, and again, I feel social media plagues her and makes her feel like, "People are going to give me things because I'm her daughter." I try to give her examples of other children of celebrities like Zoe Kravitz, for instance, who have to work through that "Oh yeah, you're the daughter of..."  and then eventually you are taken seriously for what you do.

'You just have to keep going. But does she have the same drive that I have? No. But she also has a mother, and I didn't. She grew up with money, and I didn't. So everything is going to be different. But what can I do? I can't fixate on it. I just have to do my best.'

'Created with love': The half-Cuban beauty is the twice-divorced mother-of-six's eldest and only child from her two-year relationship with Belleon Body co-creator Carlos Leon (L, pictured in 2016), which ended in 1997

Madonna gushed to British Vogue back in 2019: '[Lola] is insanely talented. I'm green with envy because she's incredible at everything she does  she's an incredible dancer, she's a great actress, she plays the piano beautifully, she's way better than me in the talent department'

The Raising Malawi co-founder added: 'But does she have the same drive that I have? No. But she also has a mother, and I didn't. She grew up with money, and I didn't. So everything is going to be different. But what can I do? I can't fixate on it. I just have to do my best'

On August 11, the Raising Malawi co-founder will celebrate the 21st birthday of her son Rocco from her nearly eight-year marriage to British filmmaker Guy Ritchie, which ended in 2008.

Madonna has been hard at work co-writing the script of her self-directed Universal Pictures biopic with Oscar-winning screenwriter Diablo Cody.

The Gang Signs video vixen also recently completed a documentary for her 75-date Madame X Tour, which is said to be for a Netflix special or Blu-ray release.
She recently pleaded guilty to a Covid breach and was slapped with a fine of over $1,600.

And now former Married At First Sight star Stacey Hampton is selling more that $3000 worth of designer goods from Louis Vuitton, Givenchy and Prada ahead of a 'planned move'.

The 27-year-old shared a post on her Instagram Story on Wednesday and explained to fans that she is: 'selling some of my designer stuff because I'm making room for my move!'

On sale: Married At First Sight star Stacey Hampton told her Instagram fans on Wednesday that she is selling more than $3000 worth of her designer goods

While she did not provide any further details about her relocation, Stacey noted to followers that she would be sharing more posts over the coming days and to message her for further information.

Among the items on offer is a pair of Fendi sunglasses, which she said are 'As new. In the box' and a pair of chic Saint Laurent frames that are 'barely used' and are similar to another pair that retail for AUD$555.

She is also selling a pair of silver Giuseppe Zanotti heels with star embellishments, worth around AUD$1,035 - which she said she only wore once.

Making space: She is hoping to offload some of her 'designer stuff' ahead of a planned move

Specs-appeal! Among the items on offer is a pair of Fendi sunglasses, which she said are 'As new. In the box' and a pair of chic Saint Laurent frames that are 'barely used' similar to another pair retailing for AUD$555

Designer steps: She is also selling a pair of silver Giuseppe Zanotti heels with star embellishments, that are similar to a AUD$1,035 - which she said she only wore once

Fancy frock! The reality TV star is also offloading a Chanel knitted maxi dress, from a previous summer collection

The reality TV star is also offloading a Chanel knitted maxi dress, from a previous summer collection and a Balenciaga belt bag worth AUD$1,600.

This comes after Stacey was ordered to pay a total of $1,676 - including a $1,000 fine plus court fees - during a closed hearing at Adelaide Magistrates Court on June 22.

No conviction was recorded, and two similar charges were dropped.

The reality TV star, from Ingle Farm in Adelaide, has until July 20 to pay the $1,676.

Luxury: Stacey is also selling a Balenciaga belt bag, worth AUD$1,600, which she noted was 'never used'

Fined: This comes after Stacey was ordered to pay a total of $1,676 - including a $1,000 fine plus court fees - during a closed hearing at Adelaide Magistrates Court in June. No conviction was recorded, and two similar charges were dropped. She has until July 20 to pay the $1,676

Stacey was charged in May 2020 with three counts of failing to comply with a direction after travelling interstate when she should have been self-isolating.

When contacted by Daily Mail Australia at the time, she played down the incident as 'a little hiccup' with her essential worker paperwork.

The guilty plea came after Stacey slashed the price of her monthly OnlyFans subscription from $35 to just $15 last month.

Despite having the relevant qualifications, she has struggled to find work as a lawyer due to her responsibilities as a single parent to her two sons - Kosta, five, and Kruz, three - who she shares with her ex-partner, Rebels bikie Shane Smith, 37.

Busted: Stacey was charged in May 2020 with three counts of failing to comply with a direction after travelling interstate when she should have been self-isolating
Married At First Sight star Belinda Vickers announced her split from TV 'husband' Patrick Dwyer on Monday, after nine months of dating.

And on Thursday, the 29-year-old former saleswoman revealed the truth about their split, telling Who magazine 'it wasn't an easy decision' to make.

She said: 'I hadn't been in a relationship before I got together with Pat but if something isn't right, I realised that it's better to make the call to end it sooner rather than later. It's been an incredibly difficult time though.'

'It became apparent we didnt have the same goals': Married At First Sight's Belinda Vickers has revealed the real reason she split from her TV 'husband' Patrick Dwyer

Belinda explained that while the pair had always been a 'team', it became apparent they didn't have the same goals.

'We tried to work through it and talk about what we could do about our differences, but it gets to a point when you realise you have to cut your losses,' she said.

'It was family goals especially and timings that we didn't align on.'

Sad: Speaking to Who magazine on Thursday, Belinda, 29, explained that the pair decided to mutually end their relationship after it was evident they didn't share the same goals

The flame-haired reality star recently told Daily Mail Australia she was trying to keep herself distracted following their mutual decision to split.

'I have been keeping busy, seeing my friends and family. I am always focusing on the positives, as I am a naturally positive person,' she said.

Belinda went on to say she isn't ready to start dating again after splitting from Pat - her first ever boyfriend. 'Yes, definitely way too early for that,' she laughed.

Lost cause: 'We tried to work through it and talk about what we could do about our differences, but it gets to a point when you realise you have to cut your losses,' she said

Belinda and Patrick announced their split on Monday.

'We would like to address the rumours of our split and confirm we have gone our separate ways,' they said in matching statements on Instagram.

'We have enjoyed a relationship together for over nine months; however, we do not want the same things in love and life. We appreciate all the love and support we have received through our journey.'
Prime Minister Scott Morrison made his first appearance on Kyle and Jackie O on Thursday, after refusing interview requests since taking office in August 2018.

Wasting no time addressing the elephant in the room, co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson asked Mr Morrison why he'd snubbed Sydney's most popular FM breakfast show during his three years as the country's leader.

'Can I ask, Prime Minister, why have you never come on our show?' Henderson said.

U-turn: Prime Minister Scott Morrison made his first appearance on The Kyle and Jackie O Show on Thursday, after refusing interview requests since taking office in August 2018

'Well, I was waiting for you to be number one,' Mr Morrison cheekily replied, referring to the KIIS 106.5 duo's recent ratings victory over 2GB's Ben Fordham - which saw them become No. 1 across both AM and FM bandwidths for the first time.

Host Kyle Sandilands exploded in laughter and said: 'He's got us there! He didn't want to go on with any losers, I get that.'

'Congratulations,' Mr Morrison replied.

Henderson wasn't sold on Mr Morrison's response, however, noting that he'd made appearances on less popular FM breakfast shows in the past.

'Can I ask, Prime Minister, why have you never come on our show?' Wasting no time addressing the elephant in the room, co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson asked Mr Morrison why he'd snubbed Sydney's most popular FM breakfast show during his three years as the country's leader

Ouch! 'Well, I was waiting for you to be number one,' Mr Morrison cheekily replied, referring to the KIIS 106.5 duo's recent ratings victory over 2GB's Ben Fordham - which saw them become No. 1 across both AM and FM bandwidths for the first time. Right: host Kyle Sandilands

Proving himself the consummate politician, Mr Morrison deftly side-stepped the question by changing the topic.

'Well, here we are, and we're in the middle of pandemic and I think it's really important that I take every opportunity... to encourage people through this,' he said.

Mr Morrison's debut on The Kyle and Jackie O Show comes a year after Sandilands branded him a 'scaredy cat' for refusing to appear on his radio program.

Furious: Mr Morrison's debut on The Kyle and Jackie O Show comes a year after Sandilands branded him a 'scaredy cat' for refusing to appear on his radio program

At the time, the shock jock announced he would donate $30,000 to charity if the PM called in before 8.30am, but it was radio silence from Mr Morrison's end.

'This guy's a scaredy cat,' Sandilands remarked. 'Why won't you come on here?'

Sandilands has previously called Mr Morrison a variety of colourful names, including 'gronk', 'p***y', 'a slob', 'white and wobbly', as well as a 'gutless little toad'.
She is enjoying herself in the South of France for the 74th Cannes Film Festival.

And Kat Graham, 31, looked incredibly chic in a gold silk gown while attending the Le Figaro Madame Dinner on Wednesday evening.

The Vampire Diaries star turned heads in the elegant ensemble.

Wow! Kat Graham, 31, looked incredibly chic in a gold silk gown while attending the Le Figaro Madame Dinner on Wednesday evening

The gown was embellished with a wrap around silk scarf which draped down the back of the dress.

She paired the look with a small gold handbag and pointed toe heels.

She styled her raven locks in a sleek bob and her glam make-up enhanced her natural beauty.

The star looked sensational as she stepped out onto the beach to pose for snaps on the sand in front of a stunning sunset.

Pose: The Vampire Diaries star turned heads in the elegant ensemble that flattered her sensational figure

Style: She paired the look with a small gold handbag and pointed toe heels

The actress has been showing off her fashion credentials at the Cannes Film Festival, all week.

Last week, the star turned heads on the red carpet as she donned a striking green patterned dress for the festival's Opening Ceremony.

Her garment was peppered with metallic dots and boasted a V-shaped corset adorned with green beads while she boosted her height with gold sandal heels which complemented her gold jewellery.

Beautiful: She styled her raven locks in a sleek bob and her glam make-up enhanced her natural beauty

While Kat has been wearing her hair straight in Cannes, she said earlier this year that she has 'finally learned to accept' her natural curly tresses.

'I've really learned to accept my curls, my 'fro and my African roots,' she told Du Jour magazine.

She explained that as a child, her white mother didn't know how to handle her textured hair and recalled being dropped off alone to a black-run hair salon by her desperate mother when she was only six.

Gorgeous in green: Last week, the star turned heads on the red carpet as she donned a striking green patterned dress for the festival's Opening Ceremony

The beauty shop visits left a lasting impression on the actress, who felt 'rejected' in a way.

'My mum would just drop me off at the salon. Emotionally, it felt like I was being rejected because my parent couldn't really handle it,' she explained.

She began to value more 'manageable' locks, associating them with success in her personal and professional life.

But now she's come to embrace her natural beauty.

'Whether you're black or not, we all struggle with self-acceptance,' she said, 'and we all have our own individual journeys.'
They may be the best of friends, but Bec Judd and Nadia Bartel battled it out to be the best-dressed WAG on Wednesday night at the opening of swanky new restaurant Society in Melbourne.

Both women did their best to turn heads in a very racy outfits by designer-to-the-stars, Dion Lee.

Jaggad entrepreneur and model Bec showed off her very slender legs in a sexy suspender-style skirt from the label teamed with a stylish tuxedo jacket.

Battle of the best-dressed WAGs! They may be the best of friends, but Bec Judd and Nadia Bartel battled it out to be the best-dressed WAG on Wednesday night at the opening of swanky new restaurant Society in Melbourne

The wife of former Carlton captain Chris Judd, covered up her decolletage with a slinky black top and toted a stunning black leather Chanel handbag.

On the night, the mother-of-three showed off her freshly coloured tousled hair and wore minimal makeup on her flawless line-free complexion.

Meanwhile, Nadia, the ex-wife of former Cats star Jimmy Bartel, turned up the heat in a midriff-baring ensemble also by Lee.

Hot: Jaggad entrepreneur and model Bec showed off her very slender legs in a sexy suspender-style skirt by Dion Lee teamed with a stylish tuxedo jacket

The 35-year-old flaunted her toned abs in a crop top and matching baggy trousers with chain detail at the waist to draw attention to her slender midsection.

She wore her hair out similar to Bec and accessorised with a designer handbag.

At the restaurant opening, the women enjoyed caviar cocktails and sipped on martinis.

Biker girl! Rebecca wore a pair of very expensive Fendi Rockoko biker boots on her feet that retail for $1,650

Natural beauty: On the night, the mother-of-three showed off her freshly coloured tousled hair and wore minimal makeup on her flawless line-free complexion

Bec made reference to a potential lockdown in Melbourne in one of her Instagram posts about the night.

'Now Covid, get f%$t,' she wrote, after congratulating the eatery.

Melbourne was bracing for a lockdown after COVID infections surged in the city with the cases linked to a team of removalists from Sydney who travelled south.

But Victoria has now held off going into snap lockdown after ZERO new cases were linked on Thursday.

Instead, the 15-person gathering limit is set to be reduced and density limits in public places and venues are expected to be lowered.
Ariel Winter showed off her flawless complexion during a solo errand run in Los Angeles on Wednesday.

The 23-year-old actress went makeup-free and wore her newly dyed red hair down, before scouring the aisles of a nearby Sephora.

Winter kept casual for the outing in a black fleece jacket and a pair of formfitting leopard print leggings.

Flawless: Ariel Winter showed off her flawless complexion during a solo errand run in Los Angeles on Wednesday

The Modern Family star walked across the store's parking lot in a pair of patterned slip-on shoes.

She carried a shopping bag in one hand, while using the other to keep her fleece jacket closed.

Just one day prior, Ariel swung by a hair salon in LA to turn her bleach blonde strands to a vibrant shade of red.

She was seen exiting the hair salon on Tuesday, July 14 after proudly flaunting her lengthy blonde hair in glamorous snaps from her weekend trip to Las Vegas.

Casual cutie: The 23-year-old actress kept casual for the outing in a black fleece jacket and a pair of formfitting leopard print leggings

Winter frequently switches up her hair colors, having rocking everything from brunette to pink.

The Sofia The First voice actress proudly sported a similar shade of red to what she has now in the spring of 2019.

She also decided to go strawberry blonde just prior to the start of the pandemic in 2020.

Bye to blonde! Just one day prior, Ariel swung by a hair salon in LA to turn her bleach blonde strands to a vibrant shade of red; Ariel pictured on June 21

Return to red: The Sofia The First voice actress proudly sported a similar shade of red to what she has now in the spring of 2019; Ariel pictured in May 2019

Ariel spent the majority of the pandemic hunkered down at her LA home with boyfriend of over a year Luke Benward.

Back in May, Winter penned a touching tribute to Benward in celebration of his 26th birthday, which she proudly shared to Instagram.

'Happy 26th to the most special man that gives me alllllllll the feels allllllllllll the time,' she began. 'I love you. I am beyond grateful for you. I feel incredibly lucky to spend each day together enjoying the great days and working through the tough days that we cant go at alone.'

In love: Ariel spent the majority of the pandemic hunkered down at her LA home with boyfriend of over a year Luke Benward; Ariel and Luke pictured in May

She went on to note that Benward had been her 'safe space and guiding light through all of the tough days' in 2020 and that 'thankful doesnt even begin to describe how I feel'

Along with her sweet message, Ariel included several of her favorite pics of Luke, as well as shots of them together.

As for her professional life, Winter was forced to bid farewell to her long-running series Modern Family, which aired its 11th and final season on ABC in 2020.
Amy Schumer and actress Susannah Flood were seen taking turns sipping straight out of a bottle of alcohol while filming their new TV series Life & Beth.

While strutting down the street alongside her costar in a comfortable black sneakers, the 40-year-old comedian rocked a plunging long sleeve dress.

Her shoulder-length blonde tresses were perfectly straightened out for the scene, which included Flood, who wore a blue dress with white flowers.

Latest project: Amy Schumer and actress Susannah Flood were seen taking turns sipping straight out of a bottle of alcohol while filming their new TV series Life & Beth

Flood, best known for appearing in The Roundabout's revival of The Cherry Orchard alongside Diane Lane in 2016, also wore an olive green cardigan.

Like Schumer, she sported a pair of UGG boots, as they walked a few blocks.

Schumer stars as Beth in the upcoming show, who's 'life looks pretty great on paper,' but takes a turn as she dives into her past, according to the streaming service.

Filming: While strutting down the street alongside her costar in a comfortable black sneakers, the 40-year-old comedian rocked a plunging long sleeve dress

'Impressive to everyone she grew up with. She makes a good living as a wine distributor. Shes in a long-term relationship with an attractive, successful guy and lives in Manhattan. When a sudden incident forces Beth to engage with her past, her life changes forever.

The synopsis concluded: 'Through flashbacks to her teen self, Beth starts to learn how she became who she is and who she wants to become. Well go on her journey toward building a more authentic life. Learning to express herself and living in an intentional way. A trip down memory lane is a strong source of trauma, comedy and moving forward.'

Michael Rapaport recently signed on to play teenaged Beth's father, with Michael Cera also receiving a role in the comedian's new show.

Looking good: Her shoulder-length blonde tresses were perfectly straightened out for the scene, which included Flood, who wore a blue dress with white flowers

TV series: Schumer stars as Beth in the upcoming show, who's 'life looks pretty great on paper,' but takes a turn as she dives into her past, according to the streaming service

The I Feel Pretty star has two-year-old son Gene with her husband Chris Fischer, and has said shes keen to expand her brood and have a second tot soon.

When asked about having baby number two by guest host Ashley Graham on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, she said: 'Oh God, I hope so. We're trying to figure it out. I mean, you know, it's like there's nothing better.'

Amy previously said she wouldnt be able to carry any future children after the process of welcoming Gene via IVF was 'really tough' on her.

In August, she explained: 'We did IVF and IVF was really tough on me. I don't think I could ever do IVF again. "I decided that I can't be pregnant ever again. We thought about a surrogate, but I think we're going to hold off for right now.'
Hugh Jackman has returned to America after his trip to Australia was cut short by Sydney's Covid outbreak, and made his first stop at an iconic New York City attraction.

The Sydney-born actor visited the Edge observation deck - the highest of its kind in the Western Hemisphere - on Wednesday, documenting the excursion on Instagram.

The X-Men star, 52, had returned to the United States early last week after a short stint in his home country, which included two weeks spent in hotel quarantine.

On top of the world: Hugh Jackman has returned to America after his trip to Australia was cut short by Sydney's Covid outbreak, and made his first stop at an iconic New York City attraction

'Yesterday, I went on a journey to The Edge,' Hugh said in a video as he marvelled at the stunning view of the New York skyline.

'That's pretty cool. That's awesome,' he added.

Hugh also showed his followers another attraction, the Vessel, which is a structure that features hundreds of flights of stairs built in a honeycomb shape.

Wow: The Sydney-born actor visited the Edge observation deck - the highest of its kind in the Western Hemisphere - on Wednesday, documenting the excursion on Instagram

Back in the Big Apple: The X-Men star, 52, had returned to the United States early last week after a short stint in his home country, which included two weeks spent in hotel quarantine

'I haven't been on that yet,' the Wolverine actor said, to which an attendant replied: 'Anytime you want.'

'Really? Right we should do a stairs workout, you'd love that,' he remarked, turning to his camera operator and wife Deborra-Lee Furness.

Hugh also posted a photo on Instagram Stories of himself and U.S. Today Show host Hoda Kotb on top of the sky deck together.

Stunning: Hugh also showed his followers another attraction, the Vessel, which is a structure that features hundreds of flights of stairs built in a honeycomb shape

Open invitation: 'I haven't been on that yet,' the Wolverine actor said, to which an attendant replied: 'Anytime you want'

Hugh's visit to the attraction comes after he enjoyed just a week and a half of freedom in Sydney after completing 14 days of hotel quarantine.

He is believed to have cut short his visit to his home city after an outbreak of the highly infectious Delta strain of Covid led to another lockdown.

The Greatest Showman star has been living in NYC with his wife, Deborra-Lee, and their children, Oscar, 21, and Ava, 16, since 2008.
His six-month romance with actress Jodi Gordon recently came to an end following a highly publicised AVO drama.

And it seems Sydney banker Sebastian Blackler is now hoping to mend his broken heart by finding love on popular dating app Hinge.

Sebastian's profile, which surfaced this week, describes him as a London-born, 6'1" investment trader based in Potts Point, who identifies as an atheist.

Swipe right! Jodi Gordon's (left) banker ex-boyfriend Sebastian Blackler (right) has surfaced on dating app Hinge, months after quietly splitting from the actress amid their AVO drama

According to a his question-and-answer style bio, the 30-year-old's 'love language' is 'tequila', his best travel story is 'getting kidnapped in Rio Favela', and his debate of choice is whether ketchup should be consumed 'with every meal'.

Sebastian's profile is accompanied by a gallery of photos of him partying with pals, while showing off his chest in various low-cut shirts.

One photo shows him posing in a blue shirt, maroon tie and black suspenders.

Looking for love: Sebastian's profile, which surfaced this week, describes him as a London-born, 6'1" investment trader based in Potts Point, who identifies as an atheist

Party animal! Sebastian's profile is accompanied by a gallery of photos of him partying with pals, while showing off his chest in various low-cut shirts

It comes after Sebastian quietly ended his fraught relationship with Jodi after just six months of dating.

In November last year, Police took out an interim AVO to protect Jodi from Sebastian following an incident at her eastern suburbs home.

The incident came just one week after they went Instagram official on November 21.

Case of the ex: It comes after Sebastian quietly ended his fraught relationship with Jodi after just six months of dating

According to Woman's Day, the AVO news surprised those close to Jodi as she had been 'head over heels' and 'beaming with joy' just days beforehand.

On the day of the incident, police were called to the TV star's house in Double Bay shortly after midnight after reports of a disturbance.

Police subsequently took out an interim AVO to prevent Sebastian from assaulting, threatening, stalking, harassing or intimidating Jodi.

AVO drama: In November last year, Police took out an interim AVO to protect Jodi from Sebastian following an incident at her eastern suburbs home

Daily Mail Australia is not suggesting Sebastian is alleged to have done any of those things, and police have laid no charges against him.

Jodi's daughter, Aleeia, was not present at the time of the disturbance.

Sebastian consented to a one-year order when he appeared in Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court on December 9, without making any admissions of wrongdoing.

While it's unclear when exactly Jodi and Sebastian split, the former rugby league WAG confirmed in June she was dating entrepreneur Aidan Walsh.
She stars as Dr. Lily Houghton in Disney's Jungle Cruise, which hits theaters on July 30.

And Emily Blunt got back into character to shoot some themed promotional footage for the highly-anticipated adventure film on Wednesday.

With the help of her stylist Jessica Paster, the 38-year-old actress slipped into two dueling ensembles inspired by Jungle Cruise's early 20th century setting.

Vintage vibes: Emily Blunt got back into character on Wednesday to shoot some promotional footage for Disney's Jungle Cruise

Blunt first appeared on Paster's Instagram in a pair of beige wide-legged accordion pants by designer Alberta Ferretti.

They were styled with a printed silk blouse, which was left partially unbuttoned and tucked into the A Quiet Place star's waistband.

She slipped her feet into a pair of brown suede Christian Louboutin boots.

As for accessories, Paster fastened a single braided gold chain around Emily's neck and fastened some coordinating drop earrings to her ears.

Sneak peek: With the help of her stylist Jessica Paster, the 38-year-old actress slipped into two dueling ensembles inspired by Jungle Cruise's early 20th century setting

Fans were able to get a closer look at Emily's jewels, as well as her sleek hair and natural makeup, in a selfie snap uploaded to her makeup artist Jenn Streicher's page.

The Devil Wears Prada star's second look consisted of a matching two-piece set, complete with dramatically flared trousers and a blouse with bows up the front.

Her once flowing hair was swept up into a romantic bun in order to keep the focus on her blouse's elaborate detailing.

Coming soon! She stars as Dr. Lily Houghton in Disney's Jungle Cruise, which hits theaters on July 30

For the glamorous Instagram shots, Blunt posed in front of a Jungle Cruise-themed set, complete with a wrecked boat and tropical greenery.

Jungle Cruise, inspired by the classic Disneyland ride, follows Dr. Lily Houghton (played by Blunt) who enlists the help of skipper Frank Wolff (played by Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson) to take her down the Amazon in search of an 'ancient tree that holds the power to heal -- a discovery that will change the future of medicine.'

Jungle Cruise, like many films, had its release date delayed due to COVID-19, with it originally scheduled to hit theaters in July of last year.

Worth the wait: Jungle Cruise, like many films, had its release date delayed due to COVID-19, with it originally scheduled to hit theaters in July of last year; Emily pictured with costar Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson

Thankfully, fans will finally be able to see Jungle Cruise in all its glory on June 30.

A red carpet premiere is slated for Saturday, July 24, which will take place at the Disneyland park in California.

Back in May Blunt was finally able to celebrate the release of the highly-anticipated sequel to 2018's A Quiet Place, which her husband John Krasinski directed.

Like Jungle Cruise, A Quiet Place Part II faced several theatrical delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with it finally being released in theaters and VOD in late May.

Longtime coming: Back in May Blunt was finally able to celebrate the release of the highly-anticipated sequel to 2018's A Quiet Place, which her husband John Krasinski directed; Emily and Jon pictured in 2019
Megan Thee Stallion showed off her impeccable form in a series of sultry snaps that were shared to her Instagram account on Wednesday evening.

The 26-year-old rapper relaxed in an ornately decorated room while enjoying a glass of wine as she gave her nearly 24 million followers a look into her chic lifestyle.

The WAP songwriter wrote a brief message in the caption for her post that simply read 'cheers' and added an emoji of her drink of choice for the photoshoot.

Monochromatic maven: Megan Thee Stallion showed off her eye-catching figure while wearing an all-black ensemble in a series of snaps that were shared to her Instagram account on Wednesday evening

Megan wore an all-black outfit that included a button-up vest with a row of gold pendants running vertically up her torso.

She also sported a pair of form-fitting trousers that featured wide stripes in different shades of black.

The rapper, born Megan Jovon Ruth Pete, also rocked a set of high-heeled shoes, as well as a stylish beret.

Her gorgeous dark brown hair fell down toward her shoulder, and she rocked a gold chain necklace with matching earrings.

Bottoms up: The Grammy-winning hitmaker held a glass of wine in all four of her sultry shots

Strike a pose: Her gorgeous dark brown hair fell down toward her shoulder, and she rocked a gold chain necklace with matching earrings

The hitmaker was announced as one of Revlon's brand ambassadors in August.

She has also been featured prominently in several advertisement campaigns for the line, and recently collaborated with Revlon on a new fragrance.

Shortly after she signed on to work with the cosmetics company, the rapper noted that she had a personal connection to the brand during an interview with Allure.

Working hard: Megan also tagged the Instagram account for Revlon, for whom she works as a brand ambassador

She told the media outlet: 'I've loved Revlon products since I was a kid, and the company has a history that's real close to my heart.'

Megan made a point of expressing that she was excited to be able to act as a positive influence on younger people through her partnership with the brand.

'To have the opportunity to be that role model and to champion real diversity is something that's real special to me,' she stated.

The Grammy-winning songwriter went on to elaborate on her personal sense of dress and noted that her experiences from her youth were a major influence on how she put together her clothing ensembles and cosmetic combinations.

Looking back: During an interview with Allure, Megan expressed that Revlon 'has a history that's real close to my heart'

'I'd say my style is really reflective of my roots in Houston. Watching the women in my family get made up was a really precious moments for us. I love how makeup can make you feel, and that's why I'm not afraid to go bold with it,' she said.

Megan concluded the interview by noting that she was proud to be working with Revlon, as she felt that she was able to encourage her fans to be confident in all aspects of their lives with her work.

'The whole concept of this campaign fits so well with the Hot Girl lifestyle; having fun, being confident, living your truth, and, most important, living boldly,' she noted.
Bindi Irwin revealed last month she was taking a step back from social media to focus on her mental health.

And after returning to Instagram earlier this week, the 22-year-old wildlife warrior delighted fans on Thursday by sharing several photos of her young family.

She uploaded a gallery of snaps featuring her husband Chandler Powell and their daughter Grace Warrior, who is almost four months old.

Precious moments: After returning to Instagram earlier this week, Bindi Irwin delighted fans on Thursday by sharing several photos of her young family, including daughter Grace Warrior

'Grace Warrior... A collection of my favourite moments this month,' she wrote in the caption.

'Our beautiful angel has started giggling all the time and absolutely loves nature walks, looking for wildlife with us.'

She concluded her post by saying she had 'infinite love and gratitude' in her heart.

She's a little wildlife warrior! 'Grace Warrior... A collection of my favourite moments this month,' the 22-year-old wrote in the caption. Pictured with husband Chandler Powell (left)

Family time: One of the photos she posted on Thursday showed her and Grace sightseeing around Australia Zoo with Chandler, her bother Robert and mum Terri

During her weeks off social media, Bindi spent quality time with her baby girl.

One of the photos she posted on Thursday showed her and Grace sightseeing around Australia Zoo with Chandler, her bother Robert and mum Terri.

Another saw Grace smiling from ear to ear while sitting in front of her dad Chandler.

Daddy's girl: Another showed Grace smiling while sitting in front of her dad Chandler

Too cute! Bindi and her daughter Grace Warrior bonded with kangaroos at Australia Zoo

Bindi announced in June she was taking a break from public life, just days after speaking out against her estranged grandfather Bob Irwin.

She said she was 'working hard to protect [her] mental health'.

'Hi guys, Just a note to say thank you for your support. I'm taking a break from social media and most of my work in the public eye for a month to be with my beautiful daughter and my wonderful family,' she wrote on Instagram.

Rest: Bindi announced in June she was taking a break from public life, just days after speaking out against her estranged grandfather Bob Irwin

'I feel tremendously grateful to share our life and conservation work with you but I need some time to focus on the happiness that is my family (both human and animal). You can keep up with our adventures by following my family and Australia Zoo on social media.

'Recently, I've had many people reaching out to share their own stories of working hard to protect their mental health. Thank you for sharing and speaking your truth.

'To my friends who are dealing with depression, anxiety and other battles every day - I see you. These issues are very real and deserve to be discussed and addressed.

Self-care: She said she was 'working hard to protect [her] mental health'

'Surround yourself with the light of people who genuinely care about you and will support you during the good times and the hard times. Remember there are helplines available.

'Mental health deserves more understanding and support instead of being dismissed or patronised. You are absolutely worthy of love and kindness.'

Her social media exit came after Bindi sensationally spoke out against her paternal grandfather Bob Irwin Snr in a scathing Facebook comment.

Cryptic: Her social media exit came after Bindi sensationally spoke out against her paternal grandfather Bob Irwin Snr (right) in a scathing Facebook comment

She claimed the 82-year-old founder of Australia Zoo had never said a kind word to her and had 'ignored' her since she was a child.

Bob, the father of the late Steve Irwin, is yet to comment on the matter.

However, other friends and family members have defended him, insisting he loves his grandchildren very much.
Former Cinderella guitarist Jeff LaBar passed away, age 58, from an undisclosed cause at his Nashville apartment on Wednesday.

'So I just got the call. @jefflabar, my father, my hero, my idol, passed away today,' his son Sebastian confirmed on Instagram.

'I'm currently at a loss for words. I love you pop! If you could, please share pictures or video of all the fun times we all had with my dad. It would be greatly appreciated.'

Last selfie: Former Cinderella guitarist Jeff LaBar passed away, age 58, from an undisclosed cause at his Nashville apartment on Wednesday (pictured January 28)

LaBar fathered the 28-year-old Tantric guitarist from his marriage to ex-wife Gaile LaBar-Bernhardt, who reportedly found his body.

The Pennsylvania native gushed of Sebastian in November: 'You're twice the guitarist I ever was [and] have so much more to give. I couldn't be prouder [and] I love you so much.'

Jeff famously replaced Cinderella's original guitarist Michael Schermick in 1985 and played on all four of the band's albums until they broke up in 2017.

LaBar dropped his solo album One For The Road in 2014, and he also played with bands like Cheap Thrill, Freakshow, and the Naked Beggars.

His son Sebastian confirmed on Instagram: 'So I just got the call. @jefflabar, my father, my hero, my idol, passed away today. I'm currently at a loss for words. I love you pop!'

'You're twice the guitarist I ever was': LaBar fathered the 28-year-old Tantric guitarist (L, pictured in 2020) from his marriage to ex-wife Gaile LaBar-Bernhardt, who reportedly found his body

'Don't Know What You Got Till It's Gone': The Pennsylvania native (pictured in 1989) famously replaced Cinderella's original guitarist Michael Schermick in 1985 and played on all four of the band's albums until they broke up in 2017

Slaughter co-founder Mark Slaughter tweeted a b&w snap of himself with the fellow glam metal rocker captioned: 'Gone to soon. RIP Jeff LaBar.'

Stryper co-founder Michael Sweet tweeted that he was 'deeply saddened' of Jeff's passing, calling him a 'gentleman and very kind.'

Poison drummer Rikki Rockett tweeted that he was 'blown away' and couldn't 'count the amount of shows we all did together with Cinderella and Poison.'

LaBar's Cinderella bandmates - Tom Keifer, Eric Brittingham, and Fred Coury  shared a joint statement with DailyMail.com.

RIP: Jeff dropped his solo album One For The Road in 2014, and he also played with bands like Cheap Thrill, Freakshow, and the Naked Beggars (pictured in 2012)

Slaughter co-founder Mark Slaughter tweeted a b&w snap of himself with LaBar captioned: 'Gone to soon. RIP Jeff LaBar'

'May God bless you Jeff!' Stryper co-founder Michael Sweet tweeted that he was 'deeply saddened' of the glam metal rocker's passing, calling him a 'gentleman and very kind'

'Rest in peace my brother': Poison drummer Rikki Rockett tweeted that he was 'blown away' and couldn't 'count the amount of shows we all did together with Cinderella and Poison'

'Heavy hearts cannot begin to describe the feeling of losing our brother Jeff. The bond between us over decades of creating music and touring the world is something that we as a band uniquely shared,' Tom, Eric, and Fred wrote.

'Those memories with Jeff will be forever alive in our hearts. It's unimaginable that one of our band brothers has left us. We're sending his wife Debinique, his son Sebastian, family, and friends our deepest condolences. Jeff's memory and music will be with us forever. We all... band, family and management appreciate the overwhelming outpouring of love. Rest In Peace Jeff.'

The band, their families and management request privacy at this time.

'I believe it's all my fault,' the Nobody's Fool rocker told Another FN Podcast in 2016 of Cinderella's split after selling 15M records.

LaBar's Cinderella bandmates - Tom Keifer (2-L), Eric Brittingham (R), and Fred Coury (2-R)  shared a joint statement with DailyMail.com: 'Heavy hearts cannot begin to describe the feeling of losing our brother Jeff. The bond between us over decades of creating music and touring the world is something that we as a band uniquely shared. Those memories with Jeff will be forever alive in our hearts. It's unimaginable that one of our band brothers has left us'

Coming soon! LaBar was also an avid chef and foodie who collaborated with Chef 'Iron Mike' Rolchigo (L) to create a hot sauce, which was 'almost ready for production' as of July 1

'It's no secret that I've had a drinking problem. And it showed its ugly face on one of those [cruises that Cinderella played]. I guess that's what caused a rift.

'When I fell out on one of those cruise ships in front of everybody - like, basically O.D.'d - that's when the band, and mostly Tom, took notice and was, like, "What the f***?"'

Jeff added: 'It's just Tom and I that don't talk anymore. And I can only speculate that he's very disappointed and doesn't wanna see me die. He doesn't wanna witness me dying.'

LaBar was also an avid chef and foodie who collaborated with Chef 'Iron Mike' Rolchigo to create a hot sauce, which was 'almost ready for production' as of July 1.
Married At First Sight star Hayley Vernon has revealed details of her traumatic health battle after an infected tattoo on her buttocks turned septic.

Earlier this week, the 33-year-old was rushed to hospital after she felt seriously ill when she discovered her inking had 'blistered' and 'opened up the tattoo wound'.

Following an initial diagnosis of cellulitis, Hayley confirmed on Thursday that she's now battling sepsis - a potentially life-threatening condition which is caused by the body's response to infection.

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, without timely treatment sepsis can rapidly lead to tissue damage, organ failure and in some cases, death.

Tattoo hell: Married At First Sight star Hayley Vernon has revealed details of her traumatic health battle after a tattoo on her buttock turned septic

In a worrying Instagram post, Hayley said that she can barely speak due to mouth ulcers caused by heavy medication and hasn't been able to eat solid food for three days.

'Cellulitis went septic and a quick chain of events followed. Very grateful for everyone who told me to go to hospital immediately,' Hayley said.

The OnlyFans star, who is now recovering at home, confirmed she is taking the opioid Endone for the pain and has had 'seven drip-line antibiotic bags in hospital' for the infection.

'As a side effect, severe ulcerations to my mouth and tongue to the point I'm talking with a lisp and haven't been able to eat a solid in three days,' she said.

Update: In a statement shared on Instagram on Thursday, the OnlyFans star thanked her followers for telling her to go straight to the emergency room after sharing her worries over her infected tattoo

New ink: Hayley had filmed herself getting a new tattoo on the Gold Coast on July 6

'Managed four soups and two bottles of water since I went to emergency - bye bye gains.

'My glands are the size of cherries and you can see them popping under my jaw, black eyes, dry lips, sweats... this week has been f**king brilliant!'

Earlier this week, Hayley confirmed she had rushed to hospital and had been diagnosed with cellulitis.

Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that can be life-threatening without treatment.

Nightmare: Earlier this week, Hayley confirmed she had rushed to hospital and had been diagnosed with cellulitis

Before her hospital dash, Hayley had documented her declining health in a series of worrying updates on Instagram Stories.

'Tattoo update: It's infected to the point where yesterday I was having trouble sitting,' she wrote in one post.

'The second skin made me blister, opening up the tattoo wound. Last night I found myself shivering non stop then getting severe hot flushes.

'My body is aching and I feel beyond ill.'

Horror: Before her hospital dash, Hayley had documented her declining health in a series of worrying updates on Instagram Stories

Hayley added that she had received 'copious inboxes saying the same thing', before concluding: 'I'll never use this product again.'

It's unclear which product Hayley was referring to.

Hayley then shared another video of herself looking distressed as she sat in her hospital bed in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

The heavily tattooed reality star had filmed herself getting her latest tattoo - a floral design spread across both buttocks - on the Gold Coast on July 6.

'A full day in the chair... getting my butt tattooed today,' she said on Instagram.

Regret: Hayley added that she had received 'copious inboxes saying the same thing', before concluding: 'I'll never use this product again'
Megan Fox took to Instagram on Wednesday to clarify what she meant when she said that former President Donald Trump was hailed like 'a legend' in an appearance at the UFC 264 event in Las Vegas this past Saturday.

Fox, 35, stressed that she is nonpartisan and was not expressing her personal views about the 45th president in an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live.

On the ABC talk show Monday, she described her experience sitting on the same row as Trump at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The latest: Megan Fox, 35, took to Instagram on Wednesday to clarify what she meant when she said that former President Donald Trump was hailed like 'a legend' in appearance at the UFC 264 event in Las Vegas this past Saturday

The Jennifer's Body actress said of Trump on the late night show: 'He had like 30 Secret Service with him. He was a legend. That arena was, like, very supportive of Trump when he came in.'

In her social media post on Wednesday, Fox wrote: 'Uhmmm ... I do not align myself with any political party or individual politicians. I never said Donald Trump is a legend. I said he was a legend  in that arena (key part of the sentence).'

The Transformers actress said many of the fans in attendance were 'clearly Republican based off the insane crazy proud reaction [Trump] received walking into the T-Mobile venue,' adding that it was not a matter of opinion but rather 'an observable fact.'

Fox made clear she wasn't comfortable with the feedback she received at what she perceived to be a mere observation.

The actress answered critics in clarifying the words she said and intent behind them

Fight night: Fox and boyfriend Machine Gun Kelly sat in the same row as Trump at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday

Details: Fox said of Trump on the late night show: 'He had like 30 Secret Service with him. He was a legend. That arena was, like, very supportive of Trump when he came in'

'Really loving the uneducated, [medieval] pitch fork carrying, burn-a-witch-at-the-stake mentality though,' she said. 'The world needs more of that.'

The Oak Ridge, Tennessee-born beauty, who has three kids with ex-husband Brian Austin Green, 48 - Noah Shannon, eight, Bodhi Ransom, seven, and Journey River, four - had attended the Sin City event with boyfriend Machine Gun Kelly, 31.

She told Arsenio Hall, guest hosting for Kimmel, that the experience was hectic, wild, and a bit uncomfortable in public proximity to the former president.

'I was like, "I dont know how I feel about this, because if someone is a target, then Im like, I could get harmed because I am adjacent to where he is,"' she said. 'So, I was worried about my own safety, thats all I was caring about.'
KIIS 101.1 Melbourne will reveal the new co-host of its breakfast program tomorrow.

Polly 'PJ' Harding announced her resignation in March and should have left the show in June, but her tenure was extended while her co-anchor Jason 'Jase' Hawkins visited his dying father intestate.

PJ's replacement, widely rumoured to be Channel Nine presenter Lauren Phillips, will be confirmed during Friday's broadcast of Jase & PJ.

New line-up: KIIS FM Melbourne will announce the new co-host of the Jase & PJ breakfast show tomorrow, after the departure of Polly 'PJ' Harding (left, with Jason 'Jase' Hawkins)

'We're going on co-host Tinder, and we're going to try and find me a new work wife,' Jase said on Thursday.

PJ broke down in tears as she announced her departure live on air on March 24.

She is returning to her native New Zealand after a 'challenging' year which saw her 'priorities change' after getting engaged.

Resigning: PJ broke down in tears as she announced her departure live on air on March 24

Jase, her co-host for the past six years, is not leaving the program.

KIIS 101.1 is yet to announce PJ's replacement, but reliable sources tell Daily Mail Australia they are hiring Lauren, who presents Jase & PJ's summer fill-in show.

PJ explained that being separated from her family and fiance in New Zealand during the Covid-19 pandemic last year had taken a toll.

Staying: PJ's co-host for the past six years, Jason Hawkins (pictured), will remain as co-host

She got engaged in December to her long-term partner, known only as 'Beej', but hasn't been living with him because she works in Melbourne.

In addition to the pressure of a long-distance relationship, she lost her father in 2019.

'It's not been an easy decision to make but I know for me it's the right one and will kickstart a brand new chapter,' she said.

Successor: PJ's replacement, widely rumoured to be Channel Nine presenter Lauren Phillips (pictured), will be confirmed during Friday's broadcast of Jase & PJ

'I will miss Jase and the whole team so much, but rest assured we will definitely stay in contact as Jase is adamant to be my head bridesmaid.'

Jason revealed it had been distressing watching PJ struggle behind the scenes over the last 12 months, saying she would often be in tears during ad breaks.

'There were mornings where we'd be in an ad break and you're in tears and you looked at me like, "I'm only staying here at the moment for you,'" he said.

Teamwork: The Jase and PJ partnership began six-and-a-half years ago when they joined forces to host a drive show in New Zealand

PJ agreed she was reluctant to resign because she felt like she'd be letting Jason down, but ultimately she had to focus on her own happiness.

Her exit came after a string of staff departures at the Jase & PJ show.

Imaging producers Toni Lodge and Jaxson McLennan quit earlier in March, senior content producer Rami Mustafa left last year, and former executive producer Alex Perigo moved back to New Zealand in February.

The Jase and PJ partnership began six-and-a-half years ago when they joined forces to host a drive show in New Zealand.

They moved to Australia in late 2017 to host KIIS 101.1's breakfast slot, replacing axed duo Matt Tilley and Meshel Laurie.

Engagement: PJ explained that being separated from her family and fiance (left) in New Zealand during the Covid-19 pandemic last year had taken a toll

Despite being a strong program, Jase & PJ has been unable to fully break into the competitive Melbourne breakfast market.

Duncan Campbell, the content boss of Australian Radio Network, said in November he was frustrated with the show's ratings.

'Very few people criticise Jase & PJ and the content they do. And yet it just can't seem to get the traction we want,' Mr Campbell told Radio Today.

'And every time we think we're getting signs that "Yes, we're going to get some traction here and some momentum", then it doesn't deliver.'
Roxy Jacenko has offered a crude response after being visited by police following anonymous complaints her business allegedly breached Covid-19 restrictions.

The PR guru, 41, shared a photo to Instagram on Thursday of herself flipping the bird and carrying a cake with the message 'F**k Covid'.

'I've got tea and cake ready for the raptor squad today,' Roxy wrote in the caption, referring to Strike Force Raptor, the NSW Police squad tasked with busting bikie gangs.

Response: Roxy Jacenko has offered a crude response after being visited by police following an 'anonymous tip-off' about her business allegedly breaching Covid-19 restrictions

'Thanks my darling girls Eli and Emily for the LOL I miss you at work,' she added.

Roxy's post comes a day after she had her eastern suburbs offices visited by police once again, following an anonymous tip her business wasn't Covid-compliant.

The celebrity publicist shared a CCTV image to Instagram showing two officers in face masks waiting outside her office.

Crude message: The PR guru, 41, shared this photo to Instagram on Thursday of herself flipping the bird and carrying a cake with the message 'F**k Covid'

'Wouldn't be a normal day in the life of RJ if we didn't have a daily visit from some lovely officers who's [sic] time is wasted, yet again, by another anonymous tip-off about me "breaking the Covid-19 rules",' she wrote alongside the image.

'Suffice to say - again we toured the office & were of course compliant.'

'I asked next time for the raptor squad,' she joked, referring to the special NSW police branch dedicated to gang activity.

The timestamp on the video grab showed the visit was paid on Wednesday at 3pm.

Fed up: Roxy's post comes a day after she had her eastern suburbs offices visited by police once again, following an anonymous tip her business wasn't Covid-compliant

The Sweaty Betty PR founder is at her wits' end after she received a letter in the mail from SafeWork on Tuesday informing her she was being investigated for allegedly putting her staff at risk.

In the warning letter, she was informed that a complaint has been made suggesting 'workers or others may be at risk' and that an investigation was taking place into alleged 'inadequate controls from biological hazards'.

This is despite accommodating two earlier visits from her local police who were sent out to inspect the conditions in her office following complaints from an unknown source.

Knock knock: The Sweaty Betty PR founder shared a CCTV image to Instagram showing two officers in face masks waiting outside her office

Roxy is losing an estimated $65,000 every week that the city stays in lockdown, and says that she, like any other small business owner with their head screwed on, is doing everything she can to comply so Sydney recovers as soon as possible.

She already had most of her 30-strong team working remotely when Premier Gladys Berejiklian told Sydneysiders to stay home unless absolutely necessary.

Ms Berejiklian said the current Covid threat is the most significant Sydney has ever faced, and, as a result, Jacenko sent the rest of her non-essential staff packing.

On any given day, Roxy has no more than four staff in her office. They work reduced hours and perform essential duties like packing and shipping orders, which simply can't be done from home.
Miranda McKeon has opened up about her battle with stage three breast cancer, a rare case doctors of the 19-year-old actress described as 'one in a million,' due to her age.

The actress chat with People about how she learned of her health crisis, and how she's been responding in her recovery.

The Anne with an E star said she had 'brushed across a lump that [she] hadn't felt before' last month, and 'immediately went to the worst case scenario' in her thinking.

The latest: Miranda McKeon has opened up about her battle with stage three breast cancer, a rare case doctors of the 19-year-old actress described as 'one in a million,' due to her age

'This is the moment where everything changes and there's no going back,' she said. 'But after going down a little Google rabbit hole, my mind was at ease because I didn't think anything could be wrong because of my age.'

McKeon, who played Josie Pye on the Netflix series, said she subsequently received an ultrasound and biopsy from doctors, who informed her on June 14 that her biopsy 'came back positive.'

McKeon said receiving the news was 'surreal,' and that she swiftly scheduled appointments for multiple procedures on the medical front, such as meetings with oncologists and surgeons, mammograms and ultrasounds.

'My doctor was like, "Your stage doesn't define you. And your cancer is your cancer,"' she said. 'Which I appreciate because when you hear someone's stage, your mind goes straight to one place or another and I don't think that's necessarily representative of what I'm going through.

Brave: The actress opened up about how she learned of her health crisis, and how she's been responding in her recovery

Sharing: The courageous actress shared with fans a look into her health battle

The Anne with an E star is 'managing as best' as she can in the week after her initial chemotherapy treatment last week

'Although I don't have the easiest case scenario, like I wish it hadn't spread to my lymph nodes or that it was a little less complicated, I never had a moment where I was like, "Oh, am I going to die from this?"' she said. 'That was never really a thought. I think this entire time it's been more of like, "Okay, we're going to treat this and solve it."'

McKeon said her course of action on her health battle calls for a four-month chemotherapy regimen with radiation, with surgery looming as an option.

McKeon said she 'realized that having breast cancer as a young woman involves a lot more factors than just treating the cancer itself,' as she has explored the option of freezing her eggs in the early goings of her health battle.

McKeon told the outlet that she is 'managing as best' as she can in the week after her initial chemotherapy treatment last week.

McKeon, who played Josie Pye on the Netflix series, was snapped in 2016 in Greenwich, Connecticut

Introspection: McKeon said that the health battle has helped her discover an element of her inner strength

'I'm making it my job to find the beauty in all of this, I wouldn't have chosen this, I didn't choose this, I don't think anyone would choose this,' she said. 'But I'm making it my job to try and pull something out of this.'

McKeon said that the health battle has helped her discover an element of her inner strength.

'I feel like as humans, we look at other people in other situations and think, "Wow, how are they doing that?" Or, "Wow, I could never do that,"' she said. 'And I probably would have thought the same thing about myself, but here I am and I'm now living in this story and I think we can all handle a lot more than we think we can.'
Florence Pugh revealed the odd way she became good friends with late British espionage writer John le Carre on Wednesday during a talk show visit.

The 25-year-old English actress during a remote appearance on Late Night With Seth Meyers was asked by Seth, 47, about meeting David Cornwell, better known by his pen name John le Carre, after starring in the BBC adaptation of his spy novel The Little Drummer Girl.

'Yeah. I met him, and I'm, I was, I am, good friends with him,' she said of Cornwell who died in December 2020 at the age of 89.

Late friend: Florence Pugh revealed the odd way she became good friends with late British espionage writer John le Carre on Wednesday during a talk show visit

'I actually met him at the end of the shoot, which was quite daunting,' Pugh said while adding that her character Charlie was based on the writer's sister.

'So I'm aware that there's, like, a lot of pressure with playing someone that is so close to him. And I met him at the end of the shoot. So I was like, ''Oh, my god, that is...what if he hates what I've been doing?'',' she said.

'And I sat next to him at this dinner and there was a lot of anxiety to meeting the great David Cornwell. And I remember we sat down and we had a few argy-bargy comments to each other,' Pugh continued.

'And he said something that I was just like, not okay with. And so, I called him an old fart and he looked at me and he said, ''What did you just call me?'' And I said, ''You're being an old fart''. And I remember he, like, twinkled at me, and it was from that moment on, and he said, ''I think we're going to get along'' and we were best friends ever since,' she laughed.

British author: David Cornwell, better known by his pen name John le Carre, shown in February 2016, died in December 2020 at age 89

TV adaptation: The 25-year-old English actress during a remote appearance on Late Night With Seth Meyers was asked by Seth, 47, about meeting the late writer after starring in the BBC adaptation of his spy novel The Little Drummer Girl

'So, I really have a lot of love for him and this year, it was painful saying good-bye to him. But, I mean, everybody knows he is an amazing man he's written some fantastic greats,' Pugh said.

Pugh was on the NBC talk show promoting her hit movie Black Widow that was released last week in theaters and made available on Disney+.

She was shown in a rooftop action clip with co-star Scarlett Johansson, 36, and Meyers congratulated Pugh on her 'excellent roof work'.

Critical acclaim: Pugh is shown in a still from the the BBC series The Little Drummer Girl

'You have to be able to slide down a burning hot roof in Budapest,' Pugh quipped.

Meyers remarked that nobody ever thinks about how hot the roof must be and noted that a lot of actors after a certain temperature would beg out.

'Well, when I am doing it with Scarlett, it's more fun than it is pain. So I mean, I did have a good action partner,' Pugh said.

New movie: Pugh was on the NBC talk show promoting her hit movie Black Widow that was released last week in theaters and made available on Disney+

Hot roof: 'You have to be able to slide down a burning hot roof in Budapest,' Pugh quipped about her role in Black Widow

Pugh also said it was nice returning home to England after spending most of the past year in Los Angeles away from family and friends.

'It's been a really nice few months doing press here,' admitted Pugh, who attended the London premiere of Black Widow with her family.

Pugh has been in a relationship with actor Zach Braff, 46, since April 2019.
On Wednesday night, Karen Gillan attended a sold-out screening of her film Gunpowder Milkshake at LA's New Beverly Cinema, which was bought by Quentin Tarantino back in 2007.

'Tarantino saw the movie, loved it, and requested the 35mm [print], so it's happening,' the Scottish 33-year-old gushed to Kevin McCarthy prior to the event.

'It's blowing my mind. It completely beyond something I could even comprehend.'

Historic venue: On Wednesday night, Karen Gillan (M) attended a sold-out screening of her film Gunpowder Milkshake at LA's New Beverly Cinema, which was bought by Quentin Tarantino back in 2007

Karen dressed her fit 5ft11in frame in a brown pantsuit over a navy-blue blouse and black loafers selected by her stylist Karla Welch.

Gillan - famed for her roles in Avengers and Jumanji - was there to take part in a Q&A with Gunpowder Milkshake director Navot Papushado.

That same day, the Doctor Who alum shared an Instastory of herself all glammed up in feathers and sequins to urge fans to stream her feminist Netflix thriller.

'Who's excited for the Gunpowder Milkshake watch party tonight at 7pm?' Karen - who boasts 10.5M social media followers - asked. 'Get your milkshakes on!'

The Scottish 33-year-old gushed to Kevin McCarthy prior to the event: 'Tarantino saw the movie, loved it, and requested the 35mm [print], so it's happening! It's blowing my mind. It completely beyond something I could even comprehend'

Unisex attire: Karen dressed her fit 5ft11in frame in a brown pantsuit over a navy-blue blouse and black loafers selected by her stylist Karla Welch

Woman of the hour: Gillan - famed for her roles in Avengers and Jumanji - was there to take part in a Q&A with Gunpowder Milkshake director Navot Papushado

Looking good: She posed for images once inside the venue

Gillan kicks butt as assassin Sam in the $30M-budget revenge flick, which hits UK theaters on September 17.

'It was definitely physically demanding. I've done a few action sequences in films before, but it's usually one or two [scenes] that I can really focus on,' the flame-haired action star told EW on Wednesday.

'But this was nonstop action from start to finish, and sometimes it was all in one take with no stunt doubles. It was just much more of a challenge, but it's fun because I feel like I've been building up to something like this. Now I finally graduate to a full-blown action film.'

Karen continued: '[In one scene] I've lost the use of my arms because they were paralyzed by these guys who were trying to attack me, so I have to fight three guys without the use of my arms.

Hype woman: That same day, the Doctor Who alum shared an Instastory of herself all glammed up in feathers and sequins to urge fans to stream her feminist Netflix thriller

Karen - who boasts 10.5M social media followers - asked: 'Who's excited for the Gunpowder Milkshake watch party tonight at 7pm? Get your milkshakes on!'

'It's very creative, using a lot of things in the environment, using my legs and whole body to gather the momentum to move my arms. It was just something I haven't seen before in a film. I felt like we were in new territory.'

Gunpowder Milkshake also stars Angela Bassett, Michelle Yeoh, Lena Headey, Carla Gugino, Chloe Coleman, and Paul Giamatti.

Gillan will also reprise her role as Nebula in Bryan Andrews' 10-episode animated Marvel spin-off What If...? which premieres August 11 on Disney+.

Now streaming on Netflix! Gillan kicks butt as assassin Sam in the $30M-budget revenge flick, which hits UK theaters on September 17
It was just announced that Melbourne could possibly be put back into lockdown starting Thursday night.

But luckily for Nadia Bartel, the former WAG had her nails professionally done earlier this week.

The 35-year-old kept things casual in all black activewear and a blue parka as she stepped out on Tuesday.

Stepping out: Nadia Bartel had her nails done in Melbourne on Tuesday

To protect herself and those around her, she was sure to wear a face mask at all times.

The fashion designer was also spotted carrying several bottles of nail polish as she exited the salon.

Details of the 'unavoidable' snap lockdown are still being discussed with a decision to be announced by Premier Daniel Andrews later on Thursday and would come into effect from midnight, the Herald Sun reported.

Health department sources told the publication it would be similar to the previous lockdown and would likely last between three and five days.

Officials believe Victoria needs to go hard and go early to contain its latest outbreak.

Safety first: To protect herself and those around her, she was sure to wear a face mask at all times

The lockdown is expected to include the closure of schools, along with a host of new restrictions to be reinstated.

Victoria initially recorded no further local cases on Thursday on top of 10 new cases announced a day earlier.

Health officials have since confirmed two more cases who attended an AFL match between Geelong and Carlton at the MCG last Saturday.

The pair, believed to be a man and 11-year-old boy are linked to an infected Maribyrnong man who sat in a separate area in the MCC member's reserve on level 2.

Victoria's Covid-19 commander Jeroen Weimar confirmed a snap lockdown hasn't been ruled out as the state's growing list of exposure sites surged to 75.
She is known for showing off her impeccable physique on catwalks and red carpets alike.

And on Wednesday evening, Josephine Skriver placed much of her impressive form on full display as she arrived at the PrettyLittleThing x Winnie Harlow launch party at La Mesa Lounge in West Hollywood.

The 28-year-old Victoria's Secret model appeared to be soaking up the spotlight as she posed for a few glamor shots before heading towards the event's main area.

Turning heads: Josephine Skriver was seen showing off her impressive form while arriving at the PrettyLittleThing x Winnie Harlow launch event in West Hollywood on Wednesday evening

Skriver wore an eye-catching and slightly psychedelic patterned dress that highlighted her toned form to the launch event.

The fashion industry figure's chiseled legs shot out from the bottom portion of her apparel and were on nearly full display for much of the function.

The model added elements of dark contrast to her ensemble with a pair of black high-heeled shoes, and she carried a small matching clutch purse.

Much of her gorgeous blonde hair remained tied back in a ponytail that fell onto her backside and the nape of her neck.

Eye-catching outfit: The model was seen wearing a colorful patterned dress that exposed much of her chiseled legs

Dark and light: The fashion industry figure contrasted the lighter tones of her dress with a pair of black high-heeled shoes. Her beautiful blonde hair remained tied back in a ponytail and fell onto her backside during the event

Earlier this month, Skriver was present at PrettyLittleThing's swimwear show, which took place in Miami, and she took a snap with fellow model Shanina Shaik to commemorate the occasion.

The Copenhagen native sported a light blue minidress that featured a halterneck and fell to the top portion of her thighs.

Her beautiful locks contrasted perfectly with the nearly sky-colored shade of her outfit during the event.

Shaik was seen wearing an orange shirt dress that ensured that she would stand out for the duration of the function.

Skriver spoke about balancing her personal and professional lives during an interview with Savior Flaire, where she noted that she was still in the process of figuring out what meant most to her.

Specifically, she expressed that she was trying to measure out all of her 'top priorities. It has taken me a few years to learn to put my well-being and happiness above most other things in my life.'

She went on to note that her fast-paced lifestyle has hampered her efforts, although she was still determined to find her ideal balance.

Priorities: During an interview, Skriver noted that she was still learning 'to put my well-being and happiness above most other things in my life'; she is seen during the 2017 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

'Happiness starts with you and being happy with yourself. With my career and busy schedule, it's still a learning curve to regularly find time for myself,' she said.

She added, 'Some weeks, I have to buckle down and power through. Other weeks, I'm really good at prioritizing "me time" and taking the time to find inner peace and take a deep breath.'

Skriver concluded the interview by remarking that she wanted to see more kindness in the world, as her career had taught her the value of treating other people with respect.

'We don't get much time here, so while we are, we should show compassion, empathy, and love as much as we possibly can,' she said.
He became a first-time father in late March with the arrival of a baby daughter.

And on Wednesday, Crazy Rich Asians star Henry Golding posted another super cute snap of himself holding the adorable four-month-old.

'Daddy's home,' the actor, 34, wrote in the accompanying caption as he beamed with happiness at having his little girl in his arms again.

Back home: Crazy Rich Asians star Henry Golding posted a super cute snap of himself holding his adorable four-month-old daughter to his Instagram on Wednesday after to LA from the UK

The Malaysian-born star wore a black leather jacket over a white t-shirt in the photo.

He is back home in Los Angeles after filming a new adaptation for Netflix of Jane Austen's Persuasion with Dakota Johnson in England.

He's also been promoting his new movie Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins that opens in theatres on July 23.

And in an interview with Ellen DeGeneres last month, he confided to the daytime char show host that watching his wife Liv Lo go through 16 hours of labor was extremely stressful.

'It was definitely an eye-opening experience,' he shared.

New dad: In June, the actor, 34, had confided to chat show host Ellen DeGeneres that his wife's 16 hours of labor was extremely stressful for him, saying: 'I was freaking out'

'I think it was more stressful for me than it was for Liv, my wife. She was cruising it,' Golding explained.

He added: 'At the end of it, I was wrecked... I was freaking out.'

The actor married his wife, a Taiwanese TV personality, in 2016 and they announced last November that there expecting a baby together.

Couple: The Malaysian-born Golding married his wife Liv Lo, a Taiwanese TV personality, in 2016 and they announced last November that there expecting a baby together

Daddy's little girl: The Crazy Rich Asians just celebrated his first Father's Day since the arrival of his daughter and shared on Instagram he was missing her while he promotes his new movie

Challenge: Golding was on Ellen to talk about Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins and he spoke about the intense martial arts training he went through for the film, calling it 'a trial by fire'

Speaking about Snake Eyes, Golding explained: 'It restarts the G.I. Joe universe and we concentrate on one of the most iconic characters which is Snake Eyes.

'And we start right at the beginning - his origin, who he is as a person, his mistakes, his lessons, his goals and it pretty much opens the window for exploring the rest of the characters that we all know and love.'

For the action movie, Golding had to hone his martial arts skills and he told Ellen that 'the training was intense.'

'It was a lot of sword work... Four hours a day of choreography and an hour and a half of training a day for two months,' he went on. 'It was a real trial by fire but the action sequences are out of this world.'

Snake Eyes is set to open in movie theatres on July 23.
Kim Kardashian discussed her ongoing anxiety issues in a newly-released bonus scene from the 20th and final season of E! reality show, Keeping Up with the Kardashians.

The 40-year-old billionaire recalled the first time she and now-estranged husband Kanye West left their $60M Hidden Hills mansion during the pandemic for dinner at Nobu Malibu.

'I was so freaked out. People were trying to come up to Kanye and, like, talk to him and, like, come up to me and ask for photos,' Kim told her younger sister Khloe.

Never-before-seen moment: Kim Kardashian discussed her ongoing anxiety issues in a newly-released bonus scene from the 20th and final season of E! reality show, Keeping Up with the Kardashians

'No, no, no! I don't get even remotely, unless [fans] have a selfie stick and want to do it six feet away. That was, like, high anxiety on another level. I feel like I had agoraphobia, definitely, after my robbery in Paris.'

Kardashian continued: 'Like, definitely would stay in, hated to go out, I didn't want anyone to know where I was or be seen. I just had such anxiety...Now I'm, like, such a freak all over again and never want to, like, leave.'

The KKW Beauty/SKIMS CEO is clearly still suffering from PTSD stemming from being robbed at gunpoint of $10.8M worth of jewelry at France's No Address Hotel in 2016.

COVID-19 paranoia: The 40-year-old billionaire recalled the first time she and now-estranged husband Kanye West left their $60M Hidden Hills mansion during the pandemic for dinner at Nobu Malibu

Kim told her younger sister Khloe (L): 'I was so freaked out. People were trying to come up to Kanye and, like, talk to him and, like, come up to me and ask for photos'

She added: 'No, no, no! I don't get even remotely, unless [fans] have a selfie stick and want to do it six feet away. That was, like, high anxiety on another level. I feel like I had agoraphobia, definitely, after my robbery in Paris'

Kardashian continued: 'Like, definitely would stay in, hated to go out, I didn't want anyone to know where I was or be seen. I just had such anxiety...Now I'm, like, such a freak all over again and never want to, like, leave'

Kim - who used to constantly Snapchat her location - managed to scream for help after slipping out of her restraints and 12 suspects were later arrested for the heist.

It's arguable that Kardashian's terrifying ordeal is part of the reason she aims to pass the California State Bar in 2024 and eventually start her own law firm.

However, the aspiring attorney was 'totally bummed' when she failed the 'Baby Bar' exam for the second time during the KUWTK series finale on June 10.

Including her $4M engagement ring: The KKW Beauty/SKIMS CEO is clearly still suffering from PTSD stemming from being robbed at gunpoint of $10.8M worth of jewelry at France's No Address Hotel in 2016

Scarred: Kim - who used to constantly Snapchat her location - managed to scream for help after slipping out of her restraints and 12 suspects were later arrested for the heist

Kim is also following the footsteps of her late father - OJ Simpson defense attorney Robert Kardashian Sr. - who died, age 59, from esophageal cancer in 2003 when she was only 22.

Catch more drama from Kardashian and her famous family when their new show, stemming from their multi-year global content deal with Hulu/Star, starts streaming in late 2021.

The half-Armenian beauty will also voice Delores the Poodle in Cal Brunker's animated feature PAW Patrol: The Movie, which hits UK theaters August 13 and US theaters August 20.
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Winnie Harlow is the latest social media muse to collaborate with PrettyLittleThing, with the model having released a collection with the fashion brand in late June.

And to celebrate her second collaboration with PLT, the runway maven, 26, hosted a star-studded launch party at the La Mesa Lounge in Hollywood on Wednesday.

Harlow made sure all eyes were on her as she graced the event's red carpet in a tie-dye bikini top and a pair of matching skintight leggings - both from her collection - before heading inside where she was seen being treated to a sizzling dance by Doja Cat and rubbed shoulders with a bevy of fellow stars.

Party time! To celebrate her second collaboration with PLT, Winnie Harlow hosted a star-studded launch party at the La Mesa Lounge in Hollywood on Wednesday night

She accentuated her already trim waistline with a gold chain belt that coordinated with the countless chains around her neck.

Winnie also accessorized with a pair of large hoop earrings, several bangles, and some of her favorite gold rings.

She rocked her hair's natural wave pattern, wearing it down and parting it to one side.

Harlow strutted down the carpet in a pair of pale yellow kitten heels and toted her belongings in a pink designer bag with a braided strap.

Ahem! before heading inside where she was seen being treated to a sizzling dance by Doja Cat

Cheeky! Doja Cat was showing off her dance moves - much to Winnie's delight

Round two: Harlow is the latest social media muse to collaborate with PrettyLittleThing, with the model having released a collection with the fashion brand in late June

Here come the girls! The duo looked sensational as they preened and posed for the cameras

Winnie released her very first collection with PLT back in June, which proved to be an instant success

Woah! The girls were putting on a wild display on stage

Ahem! She left hardly anything to the imagination in the ensemble

Winnie released her very first collection with PLT back in June, which proved to be an instant success.

The brand's CEO Umar Kamani briefly discussed working with Harlow in a statement, admitting that he has 'been following Winnie's career for a very long time now and she is the ultimate body positive advocate.'

Harlow's latest venture with PLT is described as the 'Winnie Harlow edit,' which is a curated selection of some of her favorite pieces to date.

Many of Harlow's closest pals and peers showed up in support of her at Wednesday's launch event, including actress Ashley Benson and fellow supermodel Josephine Skriver.

Center of attention: Harlow made sure all eyes were on her as she graced the event's red carpet in a tie-dye bikini top and a pair of matching skintight leggings - both from her collection

Here come the girls! They were in full party mode as the raucous party got underway

Giving a shout out! Winnie gave a speech as she unveiled the new collection

Putting on a show: Offset performed inside the bash while sporting a leather shirt and trendy red glasses before receiving a hug from the lady of the hour

Benson wowed in an all-black ensemble, complete with a highly structured mini dress and a pair of platform heels.

The 31-year-old Pretty Little Liars star had her auburn hair styled in loose waves and drew attention to her piercing blue eyes with a generous amount of eyeshadow.

Skriver put on an ultra leggy display in a vibrantly patterned mini dress and a pair of strappy black heels.

Support: Many of Harlow's closest pals and peers showed up in support, including actress Ashley Benson (pictured)

Wow! Benson wowed in an all-black ensemble, complete with a highly structured mini dress and a pair of platform heels

Smokey: The 31-year-old Pretty Little Liars star had her auburn hair styled in loose waves and drew attention to her piercing blue eyes with a generous amount of eyeshadow

The 28-year-old former Victoria's Secret Angel's golden hair was curled and swept up into an effortless ponytail.

Josephine posed for shutterbugs on the event's carpet with a stylish black clutch in hand.

Keke Palmer, who briefly walked the PLT x Winnie Harlow step-and-repeat, showcased her sporty side in a reflective Lakers jersey and a pair of distressed denim jeans.

Golden girl: The 28-year-old former Victoria's Secret Angel's golden hair was curled and swept up into an effortless ponytail

Simplicity: Josephine posed for shutterbugs on the event's carpet with a stylish black clutch in hand

Looking good: Doja Cat looked incredible in a figure-hugging black dress at the event

Bottoms up! Doja was seen holding two cocktails while giving cheeky gaze at the camera

Oh my! Doja's ensemble left very little to the imagination as she opted to go lingerie-free underneath

The 27-year-old actress completed the look with a pair of green and white Nike sneakers and a pair of statement making sunglasses.

Amanda Steele looked ready for a night on the town in a fitted off-the-shoulder dress featuring an asymmetrical hem.

The influencer strutted through the event in a pair of eye-catching heels that wound up her calves.

Accessorize: The 27-year-old actress completed the look with a pair of green and white Nike sneakers and a pair of statement making sunglasses.

Prepping: Before hitting the carpet, Keke was seen rummaging through her purse outside of the event

Stepping out in style: Offset was also joining in on the festivities

Francesca Farago flashed her toned midrif in a bandana-style top and ruched mini skirt.

The Too Hot To Handle star added to her already statuesque frame by slipping her feet into a pair of retro platform heels.

Siobhan Bell left little to the imagination in a sheer bodycon dress boasting a trendy psychedelic pattern throughout.

Fit: Francesca Farago flashed her toned midrif in a bandana-style top and ruched mini skirt

Chic: Amanda Steele looked ready for a night on the town in a fitted off-the-shoulder dress featuring an asymmetrical hem

Daring: Siobhan Bell left little to the imagination in a sheer bodycon dress boasting a trendy psychedelic pattern throughout

Sleek: Bell's raven tresses were tightly wound into a topknot style and accentuated her already gorgeous features with makeup

Her fingers were covered in silver rings that coordinated with the heels on her feet.

Bell's raven tresses were tightly wound into a topknot style and accentuated her already gorgeous features with makeup.

Evan Ross made a rare appearance without one of his signature hats, proudly showing off his bleach blonde hair.

The 32-year-old husband of Ashlee Simpson looked preppy in a Gucci cardigan and a pair of distressed black denim pants with a small smiley face sewn onto one thigh.

Risky: Slick Woods bravely donned a red vest with mesh detailing as a top, leaving it unzipped as she playfully posed on the red carpet

Details: The 24-year-old model covered up her signature bald head with an adorable bear eared beanie and wore a single marijuana leaf earring in her ear

Eclectic: DJ Millie blended a variety of trendy looks to create the ultimate launch party ensemble, complete with pleather trousers and a Harley Davidson top

Gia Gunn put her glowing tan on display in an orange criss-cross top and matching skirt.

The RuPaul's Drag Race star, 31, had her golden brown hair styled in adorable piggy tails and drew attention to her eyes with a pair of fluttery faux lashes.

Sinead Harnett flattered her enviable curves in a pair of high-waisted jeans and a corset top featuring Renaissance-style art on the front of it.

Breathtaking: Lyric Mariah looked breathtaking in an ultra trendy halter dress in a bright shade of orange

Edgy: Shaun Ross looked edgy in a Matrix-inspired black trench coat and a pair of platform boots

Rare: Evan Ross made a rare appearance without one of his signature hats, proudly showing off his bleach blonde hair

The 30-year-old songstress wore her lengthy brunette strands long and flowing and displayed her bright white pedicure in a pair of beige kitten heels.

Lyric Mariah looked breathtaking in an ultra trendy halter dress in a bright shade of orange.

Slick Woods bravely donned a red vest with mesh detailing as a top, leaving it unzipped as she playfully posed on the red carpet.

Looks for days: Gia Gunn (left) and Sinead Harnett (right) proudly displayed their unique fashion tastes at Wednesday night's event

Fluttery: The RuPaul's Drag Race star, 31, had her golden brown hair styled in adorable piggy tails and drew attention to her eyes with a pair of fluttery faux lashes

The 24-year-old model covered up her signature bald head with an adorable bear eared beanie and wore a single marijuana leaf earring in her ear.

She toted her belongings in a black leather backpack shaped like conjoined teddy bears.

Shaun Ross looked edgy in a Matrix-inspired black trench coat and a pair of platform boots.

Nostalgia: Many of the night's attendees, including Sevyn Streeter (left) and Jennifer Freeman (right), donned pieces inspired by the fashion of the early 2000s

Glitz: Leomie Anderson brought the glitz in a rhinestone-covered bra top styled with some unique snakeskin trousers

The 30-year-old model completed the ensemble with some flared trousers and by applying silver polish to his nails.

Bree Runway served tropical vibes in a bright green mini skirt made to resemble a palm tree leaf.

The 28-year-old rapper, wanting to keep her statement skirt the focus, threw on a white one strap crop top and a pair of tie-wrap heels.

Besties: The van was packed to the brim with Winnie's closest pals

Many of the night's attendees, including Sevyn Streeter and Jennifer Freeman, donned pieces inspired by the fashion of the early 2000s.

Streeter wowed in a pair of hot pink vinyl pants reminiscent of ones once worn by Christina Aguilera, while Freeman flashed her abs in a low-rise terry cloth skirt.

Serayah McNeill continued the Y2K style in an orange vinyl two piece consisting of a cropped bomber jacket and a pair of ruched form-fitting pants.

Strike a pose: Before hitting the carpet, Winnie warmed up her poses outside

Strutting her stuff: Serayah looked stunning as she stepped out of the bash

Leomie Anderson brought the glitz in a rhinestone-covered bra top styled with some unique snakeskin trousers.

Winnie rolled up to the La Mesa Lounge in Hollywood in a sprinter van packed to the brim with her closest pals.

The America's Next Top Model alum carefully navigated around photographers and fans as she made her way to the club's entrance.
Danniella Westbrook has revealed she has coronavirus and is 'fuming and so poorly'.

The former EastEnders star, 47, shared a video on Instagram to let fans know of her diagnosis and said she has had both her vaccination jabs.

The actress said: 'Just a quick update to let you know that yes, I've got Covid and I'm really, really poorly. I'm gutted, fuming.

Health: Danniella Westbrook has revealed she has coronavirus and is 'fuming and so poorly' - despite having both vaccines

'People I know that have had both jabs have got it again so f*** knows if that's worth it.

'I don't know why people bother because they've gone and got Covid again anyway.

'It seems there's been a massive wave of Covid outbreak yet again and I'm one of the people that have got it.

'Look after yourselves, look out for each other and stay safe. Take care.'

Jabbed: The former EastEnders star, 47, shared a video on Instagram to let fans know of her diagnosis and said she has had both her vaccination jabs

Danniella who has also appeared in Hollyoaks - told fans she was handing control of her socials over to her management as she battles Covid.

She captioned her video: "I have Covid yet everyone I know seems to be on social media having it as well . What's going on ! Im fuming and so poorly wishing everyone well and from today my social media platforms being handed over to my management. Sending love and light to all see you soon (sic)"

This comes after former Hollyoaaks actress Stephanie Davis was struck down with COVID earlier this month.

She was hospitalised and on oxygen, but has since returned home.

Two jabs of any of the three Covid vaccines available in the UK provides protection against severe disease and hospitalisation.

Despite some concern among scientists about uptake in young people, Boris Johnson is pressing ahead with July 19 Freedom Day, when most of the remaining lockdown curbs will be lifted.

The actress said: 'Just a quick update to let you know that yes, I've got Covid and I'm really, really poorly. I'm gutted, fuming'

Post: Danniella who has also appeared in Hollyoaks - told fans she was handing control of her socials over to her management as she battles Covid

Clinical trials have shown that Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine is 95% effective in preventing symptomatic disease and the Moderna vaccine is 94.5% effective.

Meanwhile, real-world data showed the Pfizer jab is 91% effective against all disease for at least six months and the Moderna vaccine is 90% effective.

This means that fully vaccinated people are between 90% and 95% less likely to develop COVID-19 than unvaccinated people.

HOW LIKELY ARE YOU TO GET COVID-19 AFTER BEING FULLY VACCINATED? So-called 'breakthrough' COVID-19 cases occur when people contract the disease 14 days or more after receiving their second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine or the Johnson & Johnson one-shot jab. Clinical trials have shown that Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine is 95% effective in preventing symptomatic disease and the Moderna vaccine is 94.5% effective. Meanwhile, real-world data showed the Pfizer jab is 91% effective against all disease for at least six months and the Moderna vaccine is 90% effective. This means that fully vaccinated people are between 90% and 95% less likely to develop COVID-19 than unvaccinated people. In addition, Johnson & Johnson's vaccine trials showed 72% efficacy in the U.S., meaning those who got the one-shot jab are 72% less likely to contract the disease. When comparing fully vaccinated people who did and did not get sick, the risk is even lower. The most recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data show that 10,262 of at least 133 million Americans who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 later contracted the disease. This translates to 0.00716% of people who have completed their vaccine series have gone on to test positive. It also represents the true odds of getting COVID-19 after full vaccination: less than 0.01%. What's more, fully vaccinated people who test positive have mild illnesses, and are very unlikely to be hospitalized or die. The CDC states that 99.5% of all deaths occur in unvaccinated people. That means, if the figure applies to the 3,165 Americans who've died in July 2021 so far - as of July 13 - about 3,150 deaths would be among unvaccinated people and 15 deaths among fully vaccinated people. Advertisement

It comes after Daniella revealed she's undergone the first of four reconstructive surgeries to repair her face after two decades of drug addiction left her features 'rotting away'.

Danniella has been forced to have her jaw rebuilt after the bone began to wear away three years ago.

Her cheekbones and gums began decaying due to her previous addiction to cocaine and a botched surgery in 2015 - which left her with osteoporosis.

Changes: It comes after Danniella revealed she's undergone the first of four reconstructive surgeries to repair her face after two decades of drug addiction

Danniella has suffered a public battle with substance abuse and was sacked from EastEnders several times, including in 2000, when she admitted she blew 100k on cocaine at the time.

Back in 2018 the star explained her cheekbones and gums were decaying due to her previous addiction to cocaine and a botched surgery in 2015 - which left her with osteoporosis.

At the time she was forced to drink twelve pints of milk a day in order to strengthen up her bones ahead of an extreme reconstructive surgery to fix her 'sunken' appearance.

Detailing her horrific condition, the actress revealed that her new 'screw-like' teeth cut into her cheekbones and that she has almost no gums left at all.

Procedure: The soap star took to Instagram and shared a selfie to show off the results as well as a snap in her bandages just before the surgery

Her issues stemmed from the botched procedures in 2015, which were so damaging she was eventually hospitalised during her stint on Celebrity Big Brother the following year.

However, her condition worsened so much that she also developed septicemia, and fought to survive in hospital for seven weeks.

Discussing the terrifying time, she said: 'I did nearly die, I had two lots of IV drips in each side and then they took all my teeth out again and gave me this denture, which has broken my heart because I didnt need all of my teeth out in the first place.'

The actress' battle with drugs has been well-publicised, and she famously had her nose reconstructed after her septum collapsed from excessive cocaine use in 2002.

At the height of her use it was reported she would take up to five grams of cocaine a day, blowing close to 250,000 on the drug.

The star has since embarked on multiple rehab stints in order to battle her demons - and revealed she was finally clean in June last year, after attending a clinic in Mijas, Spain.
She's no stranger to putting on a showstopping display with her fashion choices.

And Winnie Harlow was sure to turn heads once again as she slipped into a skimpy tie-dye co-ord before turning up the heat in an orange mini dress as she modelled pieces from her new PrettyLittleThing collection.

The model, 26, looked stunning as she flaunted her phenomenal figure in an array of colourful and sexy ensembles amid the launch of the latest edit with the clothing giant, which is released on Thursday.

Wow: Winnie Harlow slipped into a skimpy tie-dye co-ord before turning up the heat in an orange mini dress as she modelled pieces from her new PrettyLittleThing collection

Winnie oozed confidence as she posed up a storm in the tropical location of the Bahamas, with the star proving to be her own best advert.

Other items in her range include a sultry red halterneck top and matching mini skirt, which Winnie modelled with aplomb.

The tie-dye look was also a running theme in the collection as the beauty wowed in a bra and mini skirt in the same print.

She also rocked then same pattern, this time in a showstopping jumpsuit, which Winnie showed off while perching on a stack of multicoloured chairs.

Work it: The model, 26, looked stunning as she flaunted her phenomenal figure in an array of colourful and sexy ensembles amid the launch of the latest edit with the clothing giant, which is released on Thursday

Winnie released her very first collection with PLT back in June, which proved to be an instant success.

The brand's CEO Umar Kamani briefly discussed working with Harlow in a statement, admitting that he has 'been following Winnie's career for a very long time now and she is the ultimate body positive advocate.'

Winnie's latest venture with PLT is described as the 'Winnie Harlow edit,' which is a curated selection of some of her favorite pieces to date and features everything from ruched skirts and bodysuits to triangle tops and printed mesh pieces in a variety of bold colours and prints.

Model behaviour: Winnie oozed confidence as she posed up a storm in the tropical location of the Bahamas, with the star proving to be her own best advert

Red hot: Other items in her range include a sultry red halterneck top and matching mini skirt, which Winnie modelled with aplomb

The Jamaican-Canadian stunner said of her collection: 'I have absolutely loved curating this edit with the PrettyLittleThing. The collection embraces my sense of style so well and is bright, bold and tropical; everything I would want to wear for summer holidays.

'I love all the different prints and textures and got to shoot in my dream location of the Bahamas. I hope you guys enjoy wearing these pieces as much as I do!'

Winnie later showed off her collection as she hosted a star-studded launch party at the La Mesa Lounge in Hollywood on Wednesday.

Flaunt: The tie-dye look was also a running theme in the collection as the beauty wowed in a bra and mini skirt in the same print

Winnie made sure all eyes were on her as she graced the event's red carpet in the tie-dye bikini top and matching skintight leggings which she modelled in her sizzling promo snaps.

She then headed inside where she was seen being treated to a sizzling dance by Doja Cat and rubbed shoulders with a bevy of fellow stars.

Other attendees included Ashley Benson, Keke Palmer, Josephine Skriver, Amanda Steele and Francesca Farago.
Harrison Ford has been out and about sightseeing in the UK away from the movie cameras, as he recuperates from a shoulder injury.

And the latest jaunt saw him spotted taking a trip to an air museum in Cambridge.

The Indiana Jones star - who celebrated his 79th birthday this week - tried to keep away from the public eye by doing what he loved best - checking out planes.

Hanger right: Harrison Ford [L] has been out and about sightseeing in the UK away from the movie cameras, as he recuperates from a shoulder injury - and his latest jaunt saw him spotted taking a trip to an air museum in Cambridge

The actor - who is currently off the set of Indiana Jones 5 which has begun filming in Glasgow with a lookalike - has held a private pilots license for more than 20 years and is a collector of vintage aircraft.

He decided to visit some of the historic planes alongside the military vehicles artillery and naval vessels at The Imperial War Museum near Duxford in Cambridgeshire.

His visit almost remained off-radar but he was recognised by a couple of fans who couldnt resist telling their friends that they knew of his visit on social media.

One posted: 'I swear Ive just seen Harrison Ford at the Duxford Imperial War Museum.

His happy place: The Indiana Jones star - who celebrated his 79th birthday this week - tried to keep away from the public eye by doing what he loved best - checking out planes

Captain Ford: Harrison is pictured piloting his private plane into Los Angeles in January

Accident: He famously crashed on a golf course in California and left injured in 2015 when the vintage two-seater plane he was flying suffered engine failure and crash-landed

Happy: Harrison was spotted grabbing lunch in Selfridges in London on his 79th birthday last week where he delighted one lucky fan

'I was a bit confused, so just stared at him like a weirdo, as you do!!'

They confirmed the spotting by posting a photo of Harrison and adding: 'Yep, was definitely Harrison Ford!'

Another follower confirmed: 'My mum & dad were there & saw him too.'

Britain's largest aviation museum, Duxford houses the museum's large exhibits, including nearly 200 aircraft.

The site also provides storage space for the museum's film, photographs, documents, books and artefacts as well as housing several British Army regimental museums, including those of the Parachute Regiment (named Airborne Assault) and the Royal Anglian Regiment.

Actor: The icon was without his shoulder sling which he had been wearing following the injury he sustained on the set of the fifth Indiana Jones film just three weeks ago (pictured in the last film in 2008)

At work: It's been a busy period for Harrison as in recent months he's been spotted in the Scottish Borders and North Yorkshire while shooting scenes as the famous archaeologist

Meanwhile: Cochrane Street in Glasgow city centre was a hive of activity on Wednesday as cast and crew were filming Indiana Jones 5

It is said that although Ford began flying in the early 1960s, he didnt manage to complete training until much later because he couldnt afford the $15-an-hour fees.

At the age of 53, he got his coveted licence and has now accumulated thousands of flying miles and a hanger full of aircraft.

He possesses a 1929 Waco Taperwing, and once crashed his World War II-era trainer.

Meanwhile, Cochrane Street in Glasgow city centre was a hive of activity on Wednesday as cast and crew were filming Indiana Jones 5, with the Scottish streets transformed into a scene from Manhattan.
Social media users have roasted a 'tone deaf' Mia Fevola post about the latest Victorian Covid lockdown.

The 21-year-old WAG had taken to Instagram on Thursday to complain about the latest lockdown, while also revealing she would be taking the opportunity to 'stay with my family at the holiday house'.

The comments by the stepdaughter of former AFL star and media personality Brendan Fevola were not well received, with one sarcastically commenting, 'Minute silence for Mia Fevola please. Thank you.'

Another comment was far more savage: 'I hope it rains & floods your holiday house'.

'Poor Mia, must be hard trying to live your life when youre so tone deaf,' wrote another.

While one Facebook user pointed out their own hardships in light of the new hardline lockdown: 'Sending likes and prayers for her while my business literally disintegrates.'

Savage burns: Social media users have roasted a 'tone deaf' Mia Fevola post about the latest Victorian Covid lockdown, shared to Instagram

Mia's original Instagram post reacted to the news of the lockdown with, 'Here we go again. This [one is] hitting hard for me, going to stay with my family at the holiday house.'

'Why can't people just do the right thing,' she concluded, presumably referring to people staying home as much as possible.

One critic noted the irony, pointing out that Mia was 'presumably' leaving her own suburb to go to her holiday house.

Tone deaf? The 21-year-old WAG had taken to Instagram to complain about the latest lockdown, while also revealing she would be taking the opportunity to 'stay with my family at the holiday house'

Privileged? The comments by the stepdaughter of former AFL star and media personality Brendan Fevola (pictured left with Mia) were not well received

Fevola responded to the online hate with an Instagram Story that clarified she and her family 'have been living at our holiday house for [the] majority of this year.'

'We haven't escaped down here, our home is being renovated so we are actually living here.'

She continued, 'I was coming home from [boyfriend] Jamarra's [house] to be with my family again, so please don't attack me without knowing the full story'.

Explanation: 'I was coming home from [boyfriend] Jamarra's (AFL player Jamarra Ugle-Hagan pictured here) [house] to be with my family again, so please don't attack me without knowing the full story'

Back pedalling: Fevola responded to the online hate with an Instagram Story that clarified she and her family 'have been living at our holiday house for [the] majority of this year'

Fevola revealed her romance with AFL player Jamarra Ugle-Hagan at the start of this year.

However, her explanation didn't garner much sympathy, with one Facebook user commenting, 'Tough only having one holiday house to choose from.'

Another commented sarcastically, '1 of their homes is being renovated so they've had to live in their holiday house. Oh the horror...'

New love: Fevola revealed her romance with AFL player Jamarra Ugle-Hagan (pictured right with Mia, Brendan and Mia's mother Alex) at the start of this year

On Instagram, Mia had at least one supporter, with a fan writing, 'Saw your story M. F the haters.'

'Keyboard warriors with no life. You live yours to the fullest as you see fit. So many people in your corner M. Strength in numbers.'

However, that user was quickly roasted in the comments, too.

No sympathy: However, her explanation didn't garner much sympathy, with one Facebook user commenting, 'Tough only having one holiday house to choose from'

Victoria will enter a snap five-day lockdown from 11.59pm on Thursday night as the number of cases linked to its spiralling Indian Delta Covid cluster climbed to 18.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said he had no other choice than 'to go hard and go fast' as the number of exposure sites linked to the state's surging cluster reached 75.

It will be the state's fifth lockdown in 16 months, with millions given only five reasons to leave home.

They are to buy essential items, seek medical care, to exercise for up to two hours within 5km of where they live, to get vaccinated or for work and education that cannot be done at home.

Mr Andrews announced the restrictions as he revealed health officials had found a further two coronavirus cases in the community.

The hardline premier used his announcement to make a series of barbed comments about his New South Wales counterpart Gladys Berejiklian after the Delta strain crossed the border between the two states and sparked Victoria's latest outbreak, as well as to plead to Canberra for financial help.
House Rules star David Clarson has been found after a massive two day search in Western Australia.

David, who appeared alongside wife Chiara on the Channel Seven show in 2018, failed to arrive at the Mineral Resources' Windarling site on Monday where he was to begin a two-week stint.

According to Perth Now, the fly-in, fly-out worker made contact with his employer on Wednesday and was due to be transported to Southern Cross Hospital.

Found: Former House Rules star David Clarson [pictured] has been found alive after a two-day search in Western Australia

According to the publication, his wife had been told his GPS system had taken him the wrong way to the work site and his car ended up in a ditch.

The report added the reality star had no food but managed to walk between 40km and 60km before finding help.

David was found in the Aurora Range before being taken to the mine site and transferred via ambulance to hospital where he was treated.

Tough: The report added the reality star had no food but managed to to walk between 40km and 60km before finding help. (Left) with wife Chiara

David has previously spoken of his battle with mental health.

He was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) during the filming of House Rules.

Speaking to New Idea in June, 2018, he said: 'I have been diagnosed with ADHD and on the last day of renovations in Victoria, I couldn't cope.'

Reality: David was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) during the filming of House Rules

Speaking to Confidential in May that same year, he said: '(Watching it back) it's hit me a little bit the way I react to things.

'I'm a bloke out of my element and I'm not proud of the things I've done.

Channel Seven cancelled House Rules in October last year after eight seasons.
Amber Turner looked typically gorgeous on Thursday when she enjoyed a stroll along the water's edge while stepping out for a beach day in Mykonos.

Making the most of the Greek sunshine while holidaying aboard, the TOWIE star, 27, showcased her enviable figure in a bold tie-dye bikini and wore her bright blonde hair loose.

Amber's bandeau two-piece perfectly complimented her sun-kissed skin, and the TV personality chose not to remove her expensive-looking silver watch and bangles while wading out into the water.

Wow: Amber Turner, 27, looked typically gorgeous on Thursday when she enjoyed a beach day in Mykonos wearing a tie dye bikini

Gorgeous: Making the most of the Greek sunshine while holidaying aboard, the TOWIE star showcased her enviable figure and wore her bright blonde hair loose

Putting her peachy bottom on display while strolling further into the sea, Amber's bikini boasted string detailing and fit her like a glove.

Amber opted for a full face of glam for her day at the seaside, making her pout pop with a swipe of nude-hued lipstick.

She was also sporting an immaculate holiday manicure.

The social media star often shares glamorous photos with her social media fans, however recently posted a rare snap of herself during her teenage years.

Sun-kissed: Amber's bandeau two-piece perfectly complimented her sun-kissed skin, and the TV personality chose not to remove her expensive-looking silver watch

Like a glove: Putting her peachy bottom on display while strolling further into the sea, Amber's bikini boasted string detailing and fit her like a glove

Glam: Amber opted for a full face of glam for her day at the seaside, making her pout pop with a swipe of nude-hued lipstick

During a Q&A on Instagram in May, Amber posted an old picture from when she was 18 in which she had a visibly smaller pout.

She showed her followers the snap after one fan asked to see a photo of her with darker hair.

She captioned the upload: 'Think I was 18 here, pre any lip filler. I look so young...this was my natural hair colour.'

Happy: Amber appeared to be in her element while strolling along the shore and enjoying time away from the UK

Immaculate: Amber was also sporting an immaculate holiday manicure

In the picture Amber beamed as she displayed her honey tresses and wore an eye-catching tight yellow dress.

The Essex beauty has always discussed her cosmetic surgery journey with fans, often updating them via her Instagram page on the results of her procedures.

In 2017, the star got a boob job in a bid to improve her confidence and flew out to Turkey to get veneers. She also received a 3D non-surgical bum lift to get a perkier bottom.

Difference: During a Q&A on Instagram in May, Amber posted an old picture from when she was 18 in which she had a visibly smaller pout

The beauty previously discussed the boob job in which she boosted her cleavage from a B cup to an eye-popping D cup, as she branded the surgery 'the best decision of her life'.

She said in 2018: 'Last year I had my boob job and I went from a B to a D and it was the best decision I've ever made in my life.

'I think if there's something you want to change, you shouldn't feel bad about having surgery. It's made me so much more confident and it's made me so much happier.'

Amber also discussed how she struggles with body image since being in the spotlight, saying: 'Of course the public eye makes you feel under scrutiny.

'One bad picture can make you look twice the size you are and you do worry about it. It's not the end of the world though - you know what you look like and so do your friends and family.'
Pia Miller has spoken about how she handles rumours about herself during a candid Q&A with fans on Instagram Stories on Thursday.

The 37-year-old former Home and Away actress admitted she was 'used to' the rumours, having found fame at a young age.

'I think I've heard every rumour about myself... I guess I'm kind of used to it. I've been going through it since I was in high school, when I started modelling, so I've copped a fair bit of s**t, but it's fine, honestly, it doesn't penetrate me,' she began.

Rumour has it: Pia Miller has spoken about how she handles rumours about herself during a candid Q&A with fans on Instagram Stories on Thursday

Not content with her initial answer, Pia decided to 'elaborate' in subsequent videos also posted to Instagram Stories.

'I think it is important to share that, yes, people talk s**t. There are haters out there, and I think particularly in this world of social media, we've opened the floodgates for all of this expression and sharing, but with that, you take the good with the bad,' she continued.

'Like, we've also given the voice to the keyboard warriors out there, to the haters, to the trolls, and I think the only way of combating that and the only way of surviving that, if you will, is to just f**k it.'

In the public eye: The 37-year-old former Home and Away actress admitted she was 'used to' the rumours, having found fame at a young age

Newlyweds: Earlier in the Q&A, Pia revealed her plans to move to Los Angeles after recently marrying Hollywood agent Patrick Whitesell

Earlier in the Q&A, Pia revealed her plans to move to Los Angeles after recently marrying Hollywood agent Patrick Whitesell.

While she's yet to publicly comment on the nuptials, she officially changed her name to 'Pia Whitesell' on Instagram earlier this month.

Last month, Pia was photographed wearing a wedding ring in Sydney, not long after she hinted something special had happened in an Instagram post.

Making a move: While she's yet to publicly comment on the nuptials, she officially changed her name to 'Pia Whitesell' on Instagram earlier this month and said she was moving to LA

Loved-up: Last month, Pia was photographed wearing a wedding ring in Sydney, not long after she hinted something special had happened in an Instagram post

Pia announced her engagement to multimillionaire Patrick, 56, who is the executive chairman of the Endeavor Talent Agency, on November 28.

Unfortunately, the newlyweds have been forced to spend a large period of their marriage apart due to COVID-19 border closures.

Pia is currently based in Sydney with her sons, Isaiah, 18, and Lennox, 13, while Patrick lives and works in Los Angeles.
Tom Hollander and Fran Hickman were seen enjoying a romantic dinner date on Wednesday, a year after rekindling their romance.

The actor, 53, and interior designer, 37, who broke off their engagement in 2010, were looking smart in suits as they at Scott's Restaurant in Mayfair.

After it was reported last year that they reunited after spending lockdown together, the couple looked happier than ever as they hit the town.

Rekindling: Tom Hollander and Fran Hickman were seen enjoying a romantic dinner date on Wednesday, a year after rekindling their romance.

Tom looked suave in a navy blue suit while wearing a white shirt tucked into his trousers and his blazer left open.

His on-again, off-again partner modelled a sparkly silver suit, which appeared to feature a shirt-style collar and flattering peplum waist.

The interior designer swept her long caramel brown hair into a chic high ponytail, which she styled into subtle waves.

They reportedly spent the entirety of lockdown together at Tom's home, a source told the Mail On Sunday last year.

Fashionable: The actor, 53, and interior designer, 37, who broke off their engagement in 2010, were looking smart in suits as they at Scott's Restaurant in Mayfair

Beauty: After it was reported last year that they reunited after spending lockdown together, the couple looked happier than ever as they hit the town

The insider said: 'They really love each other. Tom isn't getting any younger. We're all waiting on him to propose again.'

They weren't the only stars who enjoyed a lavish night out on the town. Actress Patsy Kensit, 53, was also in attendance at Scott's.

Tom is set to play spymaster Major Dalby in the upcoming The Ipcress File remake and back in April he filmed scenes for the six-part ITV series in Zagreb, Croatia.

Ex-lovers: The couple broke off their engagement in 2010. Pictured in 2014

Lockdown lovers: They reportedly spent the entirety of lockdown together at Tom's home, a source told the Mail On Sunday last year

The Ipcress File is remake of the 1965 British espionage film starring Michael Caine and is being filmed on location in Liverpool and Croatia.

Filming began in March on Exchange Street West, close to Liverpool Town Hall, which had been transformed into 1960s London.

The series has been written by Trainspotting writer John Hodge and the all-star cast also includes The Night Manager's Tom Hollander and Peaky Blinders star Joe Cole.

Beauty: His on-again, off-again partner modelled a sparkly silver suit co-ord, which appeared to feature a shirt-style collar and flattering peplum waist
She's no stranger to turning heads with her amazing sense of style.

And Kate Ferdinand was at it again on Wednesday as she showed off her figure in a form-fitting patterned dress as she posed for a new Instagram snap.

The former TOWIE star, 30, looked incredible as she smiled for the camera while joking she'd given up trying to hide six-month-old son Cree's toys in the background.

Yummy mummy: Kate Ferdinand showed off her figure in a form-fitting patterned dress as she posed for a new Instagram snap on Wednesday

Kate oozed confidence as she showed off her post-partum frame in the wave patterned pale blue dress, while Cree's jumperoo was seen behind her.

The TV personality wore her blonde locks loose for the snap while she highlighted her features with a light palette of dewy make-up.

Captioning her snap, she penned: 'Given up with trying to hide the babies toys, they are everywhere.' [sic]

The star garnered several comments f4rom fans, with many advising her to embrace the toys as they are a part of parenthood.

That's my boy: The former TOWIE star, 30, looked incredible as she smiled for the camera while joking she'd given up trying to hide six-month-old son Cree's toys in the background (pictured in April)

Mum woes: Captioning her snap, she penned: 'Given up with trying to hide the babies toys, they are everywhere'

It comes after Kate shared an insight into the highs and lows of being a step-parent as she admitted it 'can be the hardest thing you'll ever do'.

The reality star has formed a close bond with husband Rio's three children; Lorenz, 14, Tate, 12, and Tia, 10, but says being a step-parent is not always easy.

She took to her Instagram stories earlier this month to ask others in her position how they were finding it.

Kate wrote on Instagram: 'Even if you are a totally confident parent, being a step-parent can be the hardest thing you'll ever do.

'Don't give up. You make an important difference. It may take years, but you'll learn things and said that changed their lives for the better. You've been placed in their lives for a reason.'

Hard: The former TOWIE star, 30, has formed a close bond with husband Rio's three children; Lorenz, 14, Tate, 12, and Tia, 10, but says being a step-parent is not always easy

Honest: Kate wrote: 'Even if you are a totally confident parent, being a step-parent can be the hardest thing you'll ever do'

'I always think and wonder how other step parents are doing, are you all ok?? Keep going'.

Kate took to Instagram the following day after being inundated with messages from her followers.

She wrote: 'Morning, I've been reading through all of your responses from last night and wow... sending all my fellow stepparents lots of love and support.

'Many of you are feeling grateful but overwhelmed, stressed, pushed out and are struggling.

'1 more question for you all... Where do you go to for support when you're feeling 'stuck'?

'Do you speak to friends? Any specific social pages that help? I salute you all. It can be tough but remember you are doing the best you can'.
Former Love Islanders have been criticised for accepting cash to say they use a controversial contraceptive app.

Malin Andersson, Olivia Attwood, Cara De La Hoyde-Massey and Montana Brown have been plugging the 80-a-year Natural Cycles app on Instagram with the ad hashtag.

The app has also been featured on a raft of other influencers' pages like TOWIE's Lucy Mecklenburgh.

Former Love Islanders, such as Olivia Attwood [pictured], have been criticised for accepting cash to say they use a controversial contraceptive app

Natural Cycles is similar to the fertility awareness method, taking your temperature daily to pinpoint ovulation.

But experts say touting hormone-free contraception as somehow better than traditional methods is 'questionable', with one adding: 'It's not quite the same as advertising a certain brand of makeup.'

Montana made it clear her post plugging the app back in March was paid, although it is not known for sure whether the other girls received money.

Montana's post shows her smiling and holding a thermometer on a beach with the caption: 'My mood when I can use natural cycles instead of putting hormones in my body.'

Montana Brown's post shows her smiling and holding a thermometer on a beach with the caption: 'My mood when I can use natural cycles instead of putting hormones in my body'

#AD! Montana made it clear her post plugging the app back in March was paid

Cara De La Hoyde-Massey, who has two children with fellow season two winner and now-husband Nathan Massey, wrote a post tagged AD saying: 'After trying the pill for years and then the implant I realised they weren't for me and the negatives outweigh the positives.

'My moods were all over the place so I knew I had to find an alternative.

'Discovering Natural Cycles, the first FDA cleared and natural birth control app was an absolute dream for me. It's 100 per cent hormone free and so easy to use.'

Olivia Attwood wrote: 'When I found Natural Cycles I was like - Oh My God, this is like the golden ticket.

'I can avoid unplanned pregnancy, I can track my cycles and I don't have to put anything foreign into my body, it's amazing!'

According to social media guru Alfie Green it would not be unusual for a Love Islander to get paid 50,000 to plug a brand like Natural Cycles over several months.

A spokesperson for Marie Stopes International (MSI) said women's contraceptive options should be discussed with a medical professional.

Malin Andersson [pictured] is among those plugging the 80-a-year Natural Cycles app on Instagram with the ad hashtag

Paid? It is not known for sure whether the other girls received money

MSI contraceptive nurse Simphiwe Sesanes said: 'Natural Cycles is effectively just an app version of what women have been doing for years with a diary and a thermometer. It will fit some lifestyles but may be unsuitable for many others.'

Back in 2018 the Advertising Standards Agency upheld a complaint against Natural Cycles because of an ad it felt suggested 'the app was a reliable method of contraception which could be used in place of other established birth control methods, including those that were highly reliable in preventing unwanted pregnancies'.

The ASA confirmed they had recently had two complaints made about Natural Cycles ads, but didn't uphold them.

However in 2017, Swedish health officials raised concerns after 37 women at one of the country's biggest hospitals were said to have sought a termination after all allegedly fell pregnant using the app.

Laura Miller, 22, fell pregnant after using the app for six months and said she was 'miserable' when she realised she was expecting.

'I took five tests because I didn't want it to be true,' the student at the University of Hamburg in Germany said.

Reality favourites: The app has also been featured on a raft of other influencers' pages like TOWIE's Lucy Mecklenburgh [pictured]

She and her boyfriend Pascal, also 22, who is in the army, were totally unprepared for a child and had been dating for less than a year when she fell pregnant in April.

Laura admitted she has no idea how she will continue with her studies and has 'no idea' how to raise a child.

She said: 'Many women are like me, so obviously they think it's a great idea especially when their favourite influencer advertises it.

'I think that people who are promoting this...they obviously only want the money, they don't care.'

According to a study published that same year in medical journal Contraception, with perfect use the app will see one in 100 women fall unexpectedly pregnant, which is a failure rate of 1 per cent.

Cara De La Hoyde-Massey, who has two children with fellow season two winner and now-husband Nathan Massey, wrote a post tagged AD saying: 'After trying the pill for years and then the implant I realised they weren't for me and the negatives outweigh the positives'

Perfect use would involve taking your temperature at the same time every single day consistently and only having unprotected sex only on 'green days'.

With typical use, which is a much more realistic measure of how contraception works in the real world, and accounts for human error, the study found around 91.7 per cent of users will not fall pregnant while using the app over the course of 13 cycles.

This is a failure rate of 6.8 per cent with typical use, according to the study.

BPAS says the contraceptive method with the lowest failure rate for typical use is the implant with a failure rate of just 0.1 per cent, followed by male vasectomy, with a failure rate of 0.15 per cent and the hormonal implant which has a failure rate of 0.7 per cent.

'Happy Moooood being 100% hormone free!' Amber Turner - also of TOWIE fame - promoted this via a paid partnership

According to the service, the pill has a failure rate of seven per cent, and condoms a failure rate of either 13 or 21 per cent depending on if you are using male or female versions.

BPAS puts the fertility awareness method, which is similar to the idea behind Natural Cycles, at around 15 per cent chance of failure.

A spokesperson for Natural Cycles, which is FDA and CE certified, said: 'Natural Cycles is 93 per cent effective with typical use, which means that seven women out of 100 get pregnant during one year of use.

'Women can also sometimes fall pregnant if the condom or barrier method used on fertile days can fail or a 'false' green day is produced within your fertile window. As a regulated medical device, we take all unintended pregnancies seriously and our team is always here to support users.'

A spokesperson for Cara De La Hoyde-Massey declined to comment.

Olivia Attwood, Montana Brown, Lucy Mecklenburgh and Malin Andersson's representatives were contacted for comment but have not responded.
Jordan Barrett is often seen stomping around New York running his errands.

But on Wednesday, the Australian model, 23, transformed himself into a debonair gentleman when he stepped out on the world-famous Promenade de la Croisette in Cannes, France.

Jordan looked like a dream in the resort town on the French Riviera as he covered his toned physique in a cream jumper and fitted grey pants.

Handsome: Model Jordan Barrett, 23, (pictured) looked every inch the debonair gentleman as he stepped out on the Croisette in Cannes on Wednesday

Jordan finished his outfit with pieces of gold jewellery along with black slides from the brand, Chrome Hearts.

The star allowed his caramel tresses to do their thing as he want about his business.

Despite the busy action of the city's film festival, the runway star looked calm and composed as he lapped up the sights and sounds.

Man of style: Jordan looked like a dream in the resort town on the French Riviera as he covered his toned physique in a cream jumper and fitted grey pants

In an interview with GQ Australia in April, Jordan spoke about trading life in Australia for New York City.

'I'm not looking at it like I'm gone for good,' he confessed.

He also spoke about his battle with mental health, and said that returning home for three months earlier in the year gave him time to reflect on himself.

'From being 17, and being extremely successful overseas in what I was doing, but not even really knowing what it was I was doing' he explained.

'When I was scouted, I didn't even understand what it meant to be a model.'

'I didn't know what was going on in my mind. I didn't even know what a panic attack was until now.'
Antonia Kidman has spoken about giving her daughter Lucia the 'freedom and space' to be her own person.

The 51-year-old sister of actress Nicole said she has realised she needs to take a hands-off approach when it comes to parenting the 22-year-old, in an interview with Stellar.

'She needs the freedom and space to make her own decisions and live her life,' said the mother-of-six.

Mother and daughter: Antonia Kidman (left) has spoken about giving her daughter Lucia (right) the 'freedom and space' to be her own person

'I'll always be her safety net and my love for her is unconditional,' the former television presenter concluded.

Lucia, who works full-time for a production company, is the daughter of Antonia and her ex-husband Angus Hawley.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday Antonia's Hollywood megastar sister Nicole Kidman shared a sweet tribute to her younger sibling as she celebrated her 51st birthday.

Nicole, 54, posted a flashback photo of the pair from their childhood and wrote: 'Love sharing this life with you.'

Laid back mum: 'She needs the freedom and space to make her own decisions and live her life,' said the mother-of-six

Looking back: On Wednesday, Nicole Kidman shared a sweet childhood photo of herself with her lookalike sister Antonia as she paid tribute to her on her birthday. Nicole is pictured left and Antonia, right

'To my darling sister - happy birthday,' she added, alongside a cake, love heart and star emoji.

In the image, both Nicole and Antonia pose by the water and wear matching shorts, T-shirts and hats.

In October last year, Nicole revealed just how close she is to her sister.

Close: In October last year, Nicole revealed just how close she is to her sister. At the time, she revealed they have their own 'secret language'

During a chat with WSJ Magazine Editor in Chief Kristina O'Neill to promote her show The Undoing, Nicole admitted that she and Antonia have their own 'secret language.'

The topic came up after Kidman was asked about her connection to co-star Hugh Grant.

Recalling how they first met over two decades ago, the Big Little Lies talent said: 'I've known him since we were in our early 20s.

'We went to dinner at a place in London called The Ivy with his then girlfriend Liz Hurley and my sister and just a huge bunch of people and we just kind of clicked.'

That night Hugh became fascinated with Nicole and her sister's special style of communicating.

Family: Nicole is pictured with Antonia and their mother Janelle

Nicole explained: 'My sister and I were speaking our secret language and Hugh was fascinated, because my sister and I have this language that we can speak so we can be understood in a crowd and nobody can understand us.'

O'Neill prodded for a bit more information but the Moulin Rouge star only laughed saying: 'If I end up telling you then you'll be able to decode it.'

Nicole called the secret language 'silly' but said it's always come in handy.

'It is helpful, let me tell you. It was really helpful when we were like at parties and they were and we had our boyfriends and stuff we would be able to use our language and they'd all be like 'What?''

'It's a really good tip all the sisters out there,' she went on.
She's known to flaunt her assets on social media to her 5.6million followers.

And Francesca Farago, 27, took to Instagram once again to show off her sizzling physique in an extremely revealing one-piece in an at home photoshoot for the fashion retailer PrettyLittleThing.

The Too Hot To Handle star donned a cream swimming costume with black seam detailing, which flaunted her tiny waist and endless legs.

Sizzling: Francesca Farago, 27, took to Instagram to flaunt her assets in a very revealing one-piece in an at home photoshoot for the fashion retailer PrettyLittleThing

Francesca captioned the snaps: 'Addicted to you', and tagged PrettyLittleThing.

She cut a very busty figure in the one-piece which had long sleeves attached.

Her dark caramel coloured locks flowed around her shoulders and were styled into beachy waves to give a summer vibe to the photoshoot.

Fashion deal: The Too Hot To Handle star captioned the snaps, 'Addicted to you' and tagged the fashion brand PrettyLittleThing

Sultry snaps: The Too Hot To Handle star donned a cream swimming costume with black seam detailing, which flaunted her toned physique

The glamorous reality star wore a full face of make up, including black winged eyeliner and brown lipliner over her full lips.

The Canadian influencer teamed the ensemble with trendy chunky silver hoops and a huge watch on her wrist.

These sultry snaps come after she put on a very affectionate display with Jesse Sullivan, 31, after enjoying dinner at Olivetta in West Hollywood earlier in July.

Hot: She cut a very busty display in the one-piece suit which had long sleeves attached to it

Months after her tumultuous split with ex-girlfriend Demi Sims, 25, was seen sharing a passionate kiss with Jesse.

In April, Farago split with Sims after their four-month romance, which was documented on the reality series TOWIE.

During the whirlwind four-month relationship, the couple talked about marriage, moved in together within weeks of dating and got matching tattoos.

Prior to their relationship, Francesca dated Too Hot To Handle co-star Harry Jowsey, and they broke off their engagement after one year together.
Lisa Vanderpump, 60, and Lance Bass, 42, were seen enjoying dinner at The Ivy on Wednesday evening.

The longtime friends were with their respective husbands Ken Todd and Michael Turchin.

For the double date, the former Real Housewife wore silky black trousers and a white tank top underneath a Versace patterned grey and white blazer.

Dinner date: Lisa Vanderpump, 60, grabs dinner with longtime friend Lance Bass, 42, and their respective husbands Ken Todd and Michael Turchin

She accentuated her frame with black platform heels and carried an oversized white quilted purse.

Lisa flashed a smile while exiting the celeb-favorite bistro escorted by the former NSYNC member who wore an eye-catching black shirt with silver shoulder accents.

Lance went more casual on the bottom as he sported a pair of fitted blue jeans with black sneakers and the pair shared a hug following dinner.

Also in attendance was Bass' husband of seven years, Turchin, who snagged a hug from Lisa in a tropical collared shirt with black jeans.

And her longtime husband Todd was by her side as he stepped out solo with two of their dogs, in a dapper navy suit.

Parting ways: The longtime pals shared a hug by the valet at The Ivy following a double date

This comes after Lisa said she carries English 'builder's tea' in her handbag.

The 60-year-old television personality has spilled what's inside her designer bag, including PG Tips teabags and a bar of Cadbury's chocolate, of which she consumes one a day.

The London-born star said: 'I always have PG Tips English tea bags. It's, like, a builder's tea in England, but it's the best teabag. So, if someone asks if I would like some tea I can say, here is my teabag!'

Asked what her go-to sweet treat is, she replied: 'Cadbury Chocolate Bar. I eat a bar of this every day. I love it. I'm obsessed. If I can't get that I'm really grumpy.'

Family affair: The former Real Housewife also gave Bass' husband of seven years, Turchin, a hug

The former 'Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' star also admitted she loves her Hourglass lip gloss so much, she could 'eat a whole tube' of the stuff.

She added to Us Weekly: 'The Hourglass lip gloss is very nice. I love it and I'm addicted to that. I eat so much of this stuff. I swear. I literally could eat a whole tube in a week.'

Meanwhile, Lisa recently launched her new show 'Overserved with Lisa Vanderpump'.

The restaurateur rose to fame starring on Bravo show 'The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' before landing her own series titled 'Vanderpump Rules', which chronicled the lives of her staff members at her restaurant in California.

Dog dad: Ken was seen strolling out of the celeb-favorite bistro with two of the pair's dogs

And after leaving 'Real Housewives' in 2019, and the announcement that season nine of 'Vanderpump Rules' was put on hold 'indefinitely', Lisa landed her new programme on E!.

The series sees Lisa invite her famous friends over to her Beverly Hills mansion for a swanky at-home dinner party, where they enjoy an evening of cocktails, games and feasts that she creates herself.

Different episodes of the show  which is filmed at her Villa Rosa estate - have different themes, such as 'Diva Tea', 'Beverly Hills Comfort Food', and 'Ladies who Brunch'.

Each episode features three guests, including Anna Camp, Cheryl Burke, Cheryl Hines, Gabriel Iglesias, Iggy Azalea, Jaleel White, James Kennedy, Jeannie Mai, Jeff Lewis, Jim Jeffries, Joel McHale, Kym Whitley, Lala Kent, Lance Bass, Loni Love, Margaret Cho, Mario Lopez, Meagan Good, Sheryl Underwood, Steve-O, Dr. Terry Dubrow and Heather Dubrow, Tori Spelling, Trixie Mattel, and Vivica A. Fox.
She has her hands full as a doting mother of six children.

And Hilaria Baldwin put her multitasking abilities on full display as she enjoyed some quality girl time with the eldest of her little ones, seven-year-old daughter Carmen, on Wednesday.

The leggy star, 37, kept an eye on her daughter while crossing a street in Greenwich Village, New York City carrying a tray of beverages and a shopping bag.

She's got this! Hilaria Baldwin put her multitasking abilities on full display as she enjoyed some quality girl time with the eldest of her little ones, seven-year-old daughter Carmen, in New York on Wednesday

Despite her many responsibilities, Hilaria exuded an air of cool effortlessly juggling all three.

The star looked calm and collected as she held hands with her daughter while venturing across the street.

Not only was Hilaria looking cool, but she was definitely feeling it.

The star beat the heat in a white T-shirt, grey pair of shorts, and flip flops.

Multi-tasking mama: Baldwin kept an eye on her daughter as she prepared to cross the street carrying a tray of beverages and a shopping bag

Girl time: The yoga instructor looked calm and collected as she held hands with her daughter while venturing across the street

Amid relaxed COVID restrictions, she wore her face mask beneath her chin.

Hilaria has six children with her husband Alec Baldwin: Carmen, Rafael, six, Leonardo, four, Romeo, three, Eduardo, 10 months, and five-month-old daughter Maria.

The star coyly announced Maria's birth on March 1st, posting a photo of herself with the newborn and her five children along with the caption '7.'

Aww! Baldwin held her daughter Maria, who was born via surrogate, in a recent Instagram post

'The big one is wide awake': Baldwin posted photos of herself breastfeeding her babies late on Wednesday evening

Hilaria gave birth to Eduardo in September 2020 after suffering two miscarriages and then welcomed Maria via surrogate in late February.

In late 2020, following the birth of Eduardo, Hilaria told People 'during times of COVID, it very much feels like we're done' having more children.

'Everybody's asking me this question. I don't know. I've said in the past that I was done when I wasn't done. I think, right now, I'm so tired,' she told the site. 'And I feel, just with COVID  it's just insanity.'

'My kids are used to new siblings coming in, so they're already like, 'When is the next one going to come?' Hilaria said. 'And I'm like, "Guys, you and the entire world need to stop asking me that!"'

'There is a line at the dairy cafe': Baldwin also recently posted this photo of herself breastfeeding Eduardo as Maria waited close by
Charlotte Hawkins has heaped praise on her pal and Good Morning Britain co-star Kate Garraway for the way she's handled things amid husband Derek Draper's covid-19 battle.

The presenter, 46, said she was 'inspired' and 'so full of admiration' for Kate, 54, and commended her for staying strong and remaining professional while going through so much in her personal life.

Speaking to Prima magazine about her pal, Charlotte said: 'Im so full of admiration for Kate. She inspires me. Shes gone through so much in her personal life, and yet is able to carry on and it doesnt affect her professional life.

Praise: Charlotte Hawkins has heaped praise on her pal and Good Morning Britain co-star Kate Garraway for the way she's handled things amid husband Derek Draper's covid-19 battle

'I knew how desperately heart-breaking it was and for her to be able to come into Good Morning Britain and to carry on presenting was incredible. I think she found that it focused her mind.'

The TV personality went on to describe how can seamlessly switched from speaking to her husband all night to speaking to politicians and other guests on the show who had been affected by the virus.

She said: 'Sometimes shed be up all night, shed be talking to Derek on FaceTime, then shed be straight into Good Morning Britain. Shed be speaking to politicians and people whose relatives had died and were going through it.'

Inspired: The presenter, 46, said she was 'inspired' and 'so full of admiration' for Kate, 54, and commended her for staying strong and remaining professional while going through so much in her personal life (pictured together in 2019)

The beauty added that she's 'amazed' at how Kate has managed to cope in the way she has.

Read the full interview with Charlotte Hawkins in the August issue of Good Housekeeping on sale now. It is available in all supermarkets and online at MagsDirect

During the chat, Charlotte told how she still 'keeps in touch' with former co-star Piers Morgan, who quit the show earlier this year after a row about Meghan Markle.

She recalled how they met up recently with cheeky Piers, 56, texting her beforehand to inform her that he couldn't wait to 'annoy' her again.

But Charlotte added that she 'loves' Piers' 'mischievousness' and joked that he could annoy people a way that 'no one else can'.

Meanwhile, their close friend Kate revealed last week that her husband Derek still faces 'huge challenges' after spending a year in intensive care with his Covid battle.

The presenter appeared alongside Alastair Campbell on Friday's episode of Good Morning Britain as she gave an update on her husband's condition, three months after he was discharged from hospital to stay in their family home.

Strong: Speaking to Prima magazine about her pal, Charlotte said: 'Im so full of admiration for Kate. She inspires me. Shes gone through so much in her personal life, and yet is able to carry on and it doesnt affect her professional life'

What a trooper: Charlotte said of Kate: 'Sometimes shed be up all night, shed be talking to Derek on FaceTime, then shed be straight into Good Morning Britain'

The mother-of-two explained that although Derek, 53, had been allowed to move home, that didn't mean he was 'out of the woods' and still needed time and plenty of care if he hoped to keep recovering.

As Alastair asked how Derek was feeling, Kate replied: 'He's alright, he's alright. He's very up and down, we're certainly not a long way out of the woods.'

Referring to why he came home from hospital in April, Kate explained: 'Not because he was better, no. But being home has meant we've seen some things improved.

Great admiration: The beauty added that she's 'amazed' at how Kate has managed to cope in the way she has

Keep in touch: During the chat, Charlotte told how she still 'keeps in touch' with former co-star Piers Morgan, who quit the show earlier this year after a row about Meghan Markle

Pals: She recalled how they met up recently with cheeky Piers, 56, texting her beforehand to inform her that he couldn't wait to 'annoy' her again

'Definitely having the family around, having the children around has provided stimulation.

'I think the problem is you latch on to the positives, which is good because you have to, but there's absolutely no doubt that there's huge challenges ahead'.

Derek returned to the family home he shares with Kate and their two children, Darcey, 15, and Billy, 11, in April.

It has been confirmed that Derek is Britains longest surviving Covid hospital patient after he was first admitted with breathing difficulties on March 30 last year.

'We didn't bring him home because he was better': Meanwhile, their close friend Kate revealed last week that her husband Derek still faces 'huge challenges' after spending a year in intensive care with his Covid battle

Updates: The presenter appeared alongside Alastair Campbell on Friday's episode of Good Morning Britain as she gave an update on her husband's condition
Laura Whitmore has hit back at fan speculation as to why she has only entered the Love Island villa once since the show began, despite being the host.

The presenter, 36, was not present when Brad McClelland left the show to save his partner Lucinda Strafford getting axed during Wednesday's episode.

Although Laura didn't specify when she would next be in the villa, she pointed out that she has been hosting spin-off show Aftersun weekly from London.

Speaking out: Laura Whitmore has hit back at fan speculation as to why she has only entered the Love Island villa once since the show began, despite being the host (pictured on Aftersun)

A Love Island viewer on Twitter asked: 'When is @thewhitmore going back into the villa? She's literally been in once.'

Laura cheekily responded: 'Hosting live show from London weekly, think you'd enjoy it if you watched!

She jokingly added: 'I've got great roaming package for the aul Spanish texts at the mo'.

Laura, who welcomed her daughter with husband Iain Stirling in March, previously said she will 'fly back and forth' between the UK and Spain with the tot.

Staying out of it: The presenter, 36, was not present when Brad McClelland left the show to save his partner Lucinda Strafford getting axed during Wednesday's episode (pictured on the launch show)

Keeping busy: Although Laura didn't specify when she would next be in the villa, she pointed out that she has been hosting spin-off show Aftersun weekly from London

Speaking to Grazia, she said: 'Every time I fly over, she'll go with me because I'm breastfeeding.'

Love Island fans were left baffled when Laura failed to enter the villa yet again during Wednesday night's episode.

The presenter - who is reportedly being paid 600,000 to host - has not been present for any of the four dumpings that have happened thus far and has only featured for 12 minutes of the programme over the last three weeks.

Laura was forced to miss part of the first Aftersun show due to quarantining upon her return from Spain where the show is filmed.

Elusive: Laura - who is reportedly being paid 600,000 to host - has not been present for any of the four dumpings and has only featured for 12 minutes of the programme

The presenter's absence did not go unnoticed by fans, with one joking that she must have been 'furloughed', while another penned they 'totally forgot' she was the host.

Taking to Twitter, viewers noted: 'Laura Whitmore gets 600k to present love island and I genuinely cant remember the last time I saw her in the villa'; 'We havent seen Laura Whitmore since the first episode I just realised ??? #LoveIsland';

'Ive not seen Laura whitmore enter the villa once this series ?? #LoveIsland'; 'I feel like we haven't had an appearance from Laura Whitmore in a while and I want her back tbh'

'Totally forgot that laura whitmore presents this show where is she lmao??'; 'Is Laura Whitmore on furlough this series orrr? #LoveIsland'; 'me trying to work out where laura whitmore is #loveisland';

'But wait  when was the last time we saw Laura Whitmore? Thinking face #LoveIsland'; 'is laura whitmore in this series? like at all? they just keep sending texts #loveisland'; ' Not Laura Whitmore getting presenter credits while never showing up #LoveIsland [sic]'

No show: Laura featured on episode one for the initial coupling ceremony but has not returned to the villa since (Brad McClelland and Lucinda Stafford pictured)

Laura took one the role of Love Island host for the first winter series of the show, which began in January 2020, weeks after former host Caroline Flack was charged with assaulting her boyfriend Lewis Burton at her London home.

Former MTV host Laura, whose husband Iain narrates Love Island, admitted she was reluctant to take the job, telling Cosmopolitan UK: 'I love doing live TV.

'I'd worked with most of the crew doing I'm A Celebrity... and MTV, so it just felt very comfortable. The show was the easiest thing.

Where is she? The presenter's absence did not go unnoticed by fans, with one joking that she must have been 'furloughed', while another penned they 'totally forgot' she was the host

'It was everything around it that I couldn't cope with. When I got the call I was like, "I need to talk to Iain, I need to talk to Caroline..". It's a weird one because you think you should just jump at it.

'Obviously you're delighted that ITV trust you to do such a big show, but a friend of yours is also going through hell... Caroline had messaged me first to say, "I hope you get it", which was really nice.

'You're like, "Oh yay, I get to do this but, no, this isn't how I want to get to do it. It was a really weird way to get a job.'

In February 2020 Caroline died by suicide and Laura stayed on as permanent host of the ITV2 series.

Tragic loss: Love Island was hosted by Caroline Flack but she stepped down after being charged with assaulting her boyfriend in January 2020. She took her life the following month

Which Love Island couples are still together?

Full list of Love Island 2021 Contestants: Series 7 cast members

Where are the Love Island winners now - and what are they worth?
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Kimberley Garner left very little to the imagination as she flashed her bottom at the France premiere during Cannes Film Festival on Thursday.

The swimwear designer, 30, was joined by the likes of models Georgina Rodriguez, 27, Stella Maxwell, 31, and Hana Cross, 24, but had all eyes on her in her daring gown.

The blonde bombshell wowed in a plunging La Metamorphose gown featuring chiffon pleats in lavender and cream that flared out into a full length skirt with high leg slits.

Cannes Film Festival 2021: Kimberley Garner flashed her bottom in a VERY high cut gown as she joined an array of glamorous stars at the France film premiere on Thursday

All eyes on her: The swimwear designer, 30, was joined by the likes of models Georgina Rodriguez (left) and Stella Maxwell (right) but had all eyes on her in her daring gown

The colourful garment may have been pleasing to the eye, but proved to be a practical nightmare, with Kimberley forced to constantly adjust the daring skirt before inadvertently giving onlookers an eyeful.

Undeterred by her mini flashing incident, the former Made In Chelsea worked her angles on the red carpet, standing tall in a pair of towering white heels.

Also dressed to impress on the red carpet was Cristiano Ronaldo's girlfriend Georgina, who was a vision in a chocolate brown gown with a thigh high split that showed off her toned pins.

In a quirky twist, the gown was adorned with leather fringing and shoulder detailing that gave the whimsical frock an edgy touch.

Oops! The colourful garment may have been pleasing to the eye, but proved to be a practical nightmare, with Kimberley forced to constantly adjust the daring skirt before inadvertently giving onlookers an eyeful

Lilac the way you dress: The blonde bombshell wowed in a plunging gown featuring chiffon pleats in lavender and cream that flared out into a full length skirt with high leg slits

Blonde bombshell: Kimberley was a vision of beauty in her plunging gown and accessorised with a dazzling diamond necklace that she paired with a chunky ring

Working all her angles: Kimberley strutted her stuff on the red carpet in her billowing chiffon number

Making the most of it: Kimberley posed up a storm as she posed for the crowds of photographers

Striking: Kimberley had all eyes on her as she sashayed down the star-studded red carpet

Supermodel Stella proved why she's in such high demand as she dazzled in a nude Grecian-style gown while posing up a storm on the red carpet.

The New Zealand-born star wowed in a Alberta Ferretti dress that skimmed over her lithe figure, while she styled her golden locks in old Hollywood waves and bore a slick of scarlet lipstick.

Hana had a model moment of her own as she graced the red carpet in a glittering metallic gown with a plunging neckline and knee high split.

The ex-girlfriend of Brooklyn Beckham looked phenomenal in the garment and added some extra glamour with a pair of diamond chandelier earrings.

Turning heads: Also dressed to impress on the red carpet was Cristiano Ronaldo's girlfriend Georgina, who was a vision in a chocolate brown gown with a thigh high split that showed off her toned pins

Good enough to eat: Georgina was a vision in a chocolate brown gown with a thigh high split that showed off her toned pins

Hell for leather: In a quirky twist, the gown was adorned with leather fringing and shoulder detailing that gave the whimsical frock an edgy touch

Making an entrance: Georgina ensured she was dressed to impress her first Cannes premiere of the week

Amazing from all angles: Georgina looked incredible as she worked her body for the cameras, ensuring they captured every inch of her spectacular gown

Turning heads: Georgina sent the crowds wild, with photographers lining up to snap pictures of her

Gorgeous: Supermodel Stella proved why she's in such high demand as she dazzled in a nude Grecian-style gown while posing up a storm on the red carpet

Blonde bombshell: The New Zealand-born star wowed in an Alberta Ferretti dress that skimmed over her lithe figure, while she styled her golden locks in old Hollywood waves and bore a slick of scarlet lipstick

Nude ambition: Stella wowed in the off the shoulder number which complemented her tanned complexion

France, originally titled On A Half Clear Morning, is an internationally co-produced drama film, written and directed by Bruno Dumont.

The movie stars Lea Seydoux as a celebrity journalist juggling her busy career and personal life, but whose life is overturned by a freak car accident.

The film also stars Blanche Gardin, Benjamin Biolay, Emanuele Arioli, Juliane Kohler, Gaetan Amiel, Jewad Zemmar and Marc Bettinelli.

Golden girl: Hana had a model moment of her own as she graced the red carpet in a glittering metallic gown with a plunging neckline and knee high split

The woman in black: Kat Graham looked sensational in a sequinned black gown with a lavish train as she posed on the carpet

Quirky: Lady Victoria Hervey opted for an embellished gold satin jumpsuit that she teamed with a billowing chiffon cape adorned with gems and white feathers

Dazzling: Lady Victoria had all eyes on her as she made her way onto the red carpet in her glamorous ensemble

Room to herself: The socialite looked right at home as she strutted down the red carpet

Dazzling: Lady Victoria looked incredible in her outfit, which ensured she stood out from the crowds

Pretty in pink: Hofit Golan twirled around the red carpet in her striking fuschia ballgown

Legs eleven: Hofit hitched her dress to the side to flash a glimpse of her toned legs, which were elongated with a pair of strappy heels dripping with colourful gems

Clashing colours: Hofit's hot pink gown looked spectacular against the backdrop of the red carpet

All about the accessories: Hofit donned a dazzling diamond necklace and coordinated her makeup to her outfit with a slick of bubblegum pink lipstick

Radiant: Hofit looked sensational as she posed up a storm on the red carpet

While Lea is the leading lady in the film she has been forced to miss Cannes Film Festival after testing positive for Covid-19.

According to a report from Variety on Saturday, the Blue is the Warmest Colour star, 36, got the virus on set of her new film despite having both doses of the vaccine and being asymptomatic.

A spokesperson for Lea confirmed to the publication that she had tested positive for the virus, and stated she will remain in quarantine until her doctors have advised her it is safe for her to travel.

Here come the girls: (L-R) Agatha Maksimova, Leila Depina, Abla Sofy and Nibar Madar looked sensational as they donned glamorous floor length gowns to grace the red carpet

Hat's a good look: Stella Manente (left) wowed in a plunging lace garment with a matching hat while Blanche Gardin looked chic in a white dress as she posed alongside Emanuele Arioli

Blue-tiful: German model Ann-Sophie Thieme wowed in a blue butterfly-inspired gown that she twirled around on the carpet

As Lea now has to remain in self-isolation at her home in Paris, she has not been able to attend the premiere for The French Dispatch on July 12.

The actress also has two other films that are screening at the festival: The Story Of My Wife and Deception.

It is unclear which film set Lea was working on when she contracted the virus, as she is said to be in pre-production for two films, Crimes of the Future and Le Bal des Folles.

Cannes Film Festival's general secretary Francois Desrousseaux informed Variety that those attending the festival are tested on a daily basis, and an average of three people per day have been positive cases.
Sofia Richie announced a new 'California' inspired collection with the accessories brand 8 Other Reasons on Thursday afternoon.

The 22-year-old model daughter of Lionel Richie posed in a scoop neck bandana printed crop top and leather trousers in her Instagram announcement, while saying she was 'so happy' about the campaign.

The brand took to their page to show off some other pieces, as Sofia modeled a reversible pink bucket hat and other accessories from the collection.

New collection: Sofia Richie, 22, models a plunging bandana printed top and leather trousers while announcing her new 'California' inspired accessories collection with 8 Other Reasons

Sofia stunned in the sparkling scoop next top in a vibrant pink shade which she paired with flared leather pants that showed off a hint of skin on the side.

In the shot she was multiplied by four, which allowed for a range of poses as she stood head on with her hands behind her back in one, and crouched down on all fours in another.

Two other poses which were juxtaposed into one image, included a photo of her with both hands on her hips and another where her hair softly blew with her hands at her side.

Sofia's blonde hair was styled straight down and she showed off a natural face of makeup that featured a soft peach lip with a light smoky eye.

Reversible: The collection featured a matching bandana print reversible bucket hat

Happy: 'So happy! my collection with @8otherreasons Inspired by California and summer is finally here,' the daughter of Lionel wrote in her caption

Among the collection's various pieces  which included various purses and jewelry  was a reversible bucket hat in the same pattern as the chainlink bandana top, which Sofia showed off in a close up snap.

'So happy! my collection with @8otherreasons Inspired by California and summer is finally here, and is available exclusively on www.8otherreasons.com,' she wrote in her caption.

Two other pieces  which were styled with jewelry from the collection  were a bit more risque, as she modeled a barely-there mesh dress which was ripped to expose her midriff and legs.

Another look to offset an 8 Other Reasons' chunky necklace, included a tattered take on a pant suit.

Recently the ex of Scott Disick has gone more public with her boyfriend Elliot Grainge, 27, after debuting him on Instagram in late March.

Waist chain: Other pieces in the accessories collection included a waist chain which was styled over a risque mesh dress

Business casual: Another look to offset an 8 Other Reasons' chunky necklace, included a tattered take on a pant suit which exposed her midriff

The pair have been spotted on many picturesque vacations together including St. Barts and Santa Barbara, and they celebrated the July fourth holiday together in Malibu.

'She loves that he's low-key and isn't someone who craves the spotlight. They like to be homebodies but also enjoy going out together,' an Us Weekly insider said.

Sofia and the music executive started off as friends but have continued to get more serious in their relationship, and apparently the duo have gotten Lionel's blessing  after he had been skeptical of her three-year relationship with Scott.

After splitting from the Talentless designer, 38, last June, she was romantically linked to a string of eligible bachelors including Cha Cha Matcha founder Matthew Morton and Israeli shipping heir Gil Ofer.
Stranger Things actress Millie Bobby Brown's TikTok star ex Hunter 'Echo' Ecimovic has apologized for his 'drunk' livestream in which he made a series of explicit claims about the 17-year-old and said he 'groomed' her which she has since branded as 'untruthful.'

The 21-year-old social media star took to his TikTok account on Wednesday to post a video apologizing for sounding 'very immature.'

Of the previous claims that had been made, a representative for Brown told DailyMail.com on Tuesday that he was not telling the truth.

'Mr Ecimovic's remarks on social media are not only dishonest, but also are irresponsible, offensive and hateful,' the spokesperson said.

Revealing: Stranger Things actress Millie Bobby Brown's TikTok star ex Hunter 'Echo' Ecimovic has apologized for his 'drunk' livestream in which he made a series of explicit claims about the 17-year-old and said he 'groomed' her which she has since branded as 'untruthful'

Days ago Godzilla and Enola Holmes actress Brown, 17, pictured last year, denied claims by the 21-year-old TikTok star that he was in a sexual relationship with her

In the latest video posting, he did not address or apologize to Millie directly but did express regret for how he came off in the now viral clips.

Ecimovic said: 'I'm also seeing lots of clips of it over the internet and people are trying to make it 10 times worse.

'Besides the point, the livestream - I am sorry for. I'm not proud of it at all, or how I spoke.

'It sounded very immature, looked horrible. I am sorry for doing that livestream. I should have ended it, but I chose not to. I said what I said and I can't take it back. I just want you to know I'm not OK with what I said. I'm not trying to justify it at all.'

Ecimovic took to Instagram Live on Monday to make crude comments about Brown, as well as to allege several sexual encounters with the British actress, Brown and Ecimovic are seen in 2020

He expressed frustration over the commenters on his livestream and said their negativity was the reason the conversation had reached that place.

Ecimovic explained: 'I wanted to address the livestream incident that happened. It should never have happened in the first place. It was stupidity on my part. It was not ok for me to go live as it was getting more and more negative in the comments.

'I probably live-streamed for about two to three hours and in those two to three hours, I was getting more and more drunk. So after I kept seeing how negative the comments were and seeing whatever people were saying to me, when they don't know about anything ever, it was getting me more and more irritated and then the alcohol - so I became more careless.

'I said stuff that should have never been said. My natural instinct when I see people saying that stuff ... that's how I decided to handle it.'

'It sounded very immature, looked horrible. I am sorry for doing that livestream': The 21-year-old social media star took to his TikTok account on Wednesday to post a video but did not address or apologize to Millie directly but did express regret for how he came off in the now viral clips

On Tuesday, Millie's team branded the comments on his livestream as 'dishonest, irresponsible, offensive and hateful' as she denied having a sexual relationship with him when she was just 16.

Ecimovic hosted an Instagram Live on Monday and made a series of wild and salacious claims about the actress.

The pair had been photographed together in 2020, embracing and looking happy.

Ecimovic claimed in his Instagram that he lived with Brown, then 16, and her parents for eight months and that he 'thought her mum and dad knew about everything.'

A representative for the Stranger Things star said that Ecimovic is not only being 'untruthful,' but also 'irresponsible, offensive and hateful' and that they are 'taking action to ensure he stops this behavior once and for all'

'Instead of engaging in a public discourse with him through the press or on social media, we are taking action to ensure that he stops this behavior once and for all.'

The age of consent in California, where Ecimovic is based, is 18.

Brown is a British citizen, where the age of consent is 16. She also owns a home in Atlanta, Georgia, where the age of consent is also 16.

Brown has this summer been dating Jake Bongiovi, the 19-year-old son of Jon Bon Jovi, who is currently studying at Syracuse University.

She was previously linked to David and Victoria Beckham's son Romeo, 18.

Fans of the actress were angered by Ecimovic's comments on Monday, and flooded the comment section with questions and criticism.

Ecimovic during the Instagram Live doubled down, and refused to say sorry for his lewd claims about their sex life.

Brown is pictured with her father, Robert, at the 2018 Time 100 Gala at the Lincoln Center

'You guys don't know anything. You guys are just following after one person saying one thing, like, everybody hates him so that everyone's going to hate me,' he said.

'You guys just follow each other like a big duck followed by little ducks. Whatever the top thing is, you just follow up.

'You guys don't know the story of anything, and I will never apologize. I hope you know that.'

Ecimovic, shirtless and with his friends chuckling from behind him, continued: 'I have nothing to apologize for, so make that clear. I have zero things to apologize for. You guys do not know a single thing at all.'

After Ecimovic ended his Instagram Live, footage was screen-grabbed and shared across social media.

In response, supporters of Brown created their own social media accounts to 'expose' Ecimovic.

Ecimovic's Instagram is currently unavailable.
She's no stranger to showcasing her phenomenal figure.

And Kimberley Garner left very little to the imagination as she flashed her bottom at the France premiere during Cannes Film Festival on Thursday.

The swimwear designer, 30, had all eyes on her in the daring La Metamorphose lavender and cream gown.

Cheeky: Kimberley Garner left very little to the imagination as she flashed her bottom at the France premiere during Cannes Film Festival on Thursday

The blonde bombshell wowed in the plunging dress which featured chiffon pleats that flared out into a full length skirt with high leg slits.

Kimberley put on a cheeky display in the risque dress as she worked her angles for the cameras.

The former Made In Chelsea star showcased her endless legs as she put her best foot forward and thrust her pins through the high slits.

Kimberley was unafraid to showcase her assets at the premier as she fearlessly walked the red carpet with a deep plunging neckline that reached her navel.

Turning heads: The swimwear designer, 30, had all eyes on her in the daring La Metamorphose lavender and cream gown

Daring: The blonde bombshell wowed in the plunging dress which featured chiffon pleats that flared out into a full length skirt with high leg slits

Black tie: Kimberley was unafraid to showcase her assets at the premier as she fearlessly walked the red carpet with a deep plunging neckline that reached her navel

The swimwear designer looked flawless as she accentuated her natural beauty with glamorous makeup.

Kimberley smouldered in a smokey eye make-up look as she put on a cheeky display in the racy gown.

She paired the lilac chiffon dress with a pair of dainty white stilettos as she strutted down the red carpet.

Completing her look, the blonde beauty accessorised with a glittering diamond necklace that hung down her decolletage.

Gorgeous: The swimwear designer looked flawless as she accentuated her natural beauty with glamorous makeup

Ensemble: She paired the lilac chiffon dress with a pair of dainty white stilettos as she strutted down the red carpet

All eyes were on Kimberley at the star studded bash as she threw out the gown behind her to showcase her toned physique.

The blonde bombshell wore her mid-length tresses in a sleek straight look which cascaded over her shoulders.

She whipped her gold locks from side to side as she posed for the cameras before heading into the screening.

Sizzling: All eyes were on Kimberley at the star studded bash as she threw out the gown behind her to showcase her toned physique

Stunning: The blonde bombshell wore her mid-length tresses in a sleek straight look which cascaded over her shoulders

The reality star beamed at onlookers as she put on a glamorous display at the A-list event.

Kimberley looked elegant as she strode up the stairs to the film screening with her gown billowing behind her.

France, originally titled On A Half Clear Morning, is an internationally co-produced drama film, written and directed by Bruno Dumont.

Hair flip: She whipped her gold locks from side to side as she posed for the cameras before heading into the screening

Glamour: Kimberley looked elegant as she strode up the stairs to the film screening with her gown billowing behind her

The movie stars Lea Seydoux as a celebrity journalist juggling her busy career and personal life, but whose life is overturned by a freak car accident.

The film also stars Blanche Gardin, Benjamin Biolay, Emanuele Arioli, Juliane Kohler, Gaetan Amiel, Jewad Zemmar and Marc Bettinelli.

While Lea is the leading lady in the film she has been forced to miss Cannes Film Festival after testing positive for Covid-19.

Cannes Film Festival's general secretary Francois Desrousseaux informed Variety that those attending the festival are tested on a daily basis.

He revealed an average of three people per day have been positive cases.
Ben Affleck has been the image of happiness since reuniting with ex Jennifer Lopez earlier this year.

And the Berkeley-born actor, 48, proved nothing could sour his mood when he was with J.Lo on Wednesday.

Ben seemed zen when the couple found themselves stuck in a brutal LA traffic jam down Sunset Boulevard, smiling at his love, 51, while she threw her head back and let out a huge sigh.

Smitten: Ben Affleck didn't mind the bumper-to-bumper LA traffic on Wednesday, using the idle time to gaze at his girlfriend Jennifer Lopez

Sigh: Lopez looked a bit frustrated while the couple, who reunited earlier this year, waited

Ben was behind the wheel, looking hunky as ever in a classic tee shirt that showed his buff arms.

Triple threat Jennifer embraced simple elegance for the drive, donning her signature hoops and aviator sunglasses with a simple white tank top.

It looks like Jenny From The Block might have to get used to LA gridlock.

The Bennifer spotting comes amid word New York City native Lopez is looked to relocate from Miami to LA to be closer to Affleck.

Last week, Lopez was seen touring high school in the area with son Max, seemingly confirming moving speculation.

'Ben and Jen are spending almost every night together when theyre not working,' an insider told Us Weekly on Thursday. 'They plan on moving in together very soon.'

Driver: Ben was behind the wheel, looking hunky as ever in a classic tee shirt that showed his buff arms

Happy guy: The Berkeley-born actor, 48, proved nothing could sour his mood when he was with J.Lo

Triple threat Jennifer embraced simple elegance for the drive, donning her signature hoops and aviator sunglasses with a simple white tank top

Waiting it out: Ben seemed zen while Jennifer threw her head back and let out a huge sigh

Welcome to the neighborhood! The spotting comes amid word J.Lo is looking to relocate to LA to be closer to Ben, who stays on the West Coast to be near his children with Jennifer Garner

The news was preceded by a July 7 report that the pair are 'committed' to 'spending the rest of their lives together,' after realizing they've found 'true love,' per the publication.

'They're fully committed to taking the next steps and spending the rest of their lives together...As far as they're both concerned, they're just blessed to have found each other and discovered true love, which most people can only ever dream about.'

In June, a source told People that the Armageddon star was making inroads with his girlfriend's kids.

'They are slowly getting to know Ben,' the source said. 'Everything seems to be running smoothly. It's very obvious that Jennifer is serious about Ben. She hasn't looked this happy for a long time.'

They added that her son Max and daughter Emme, the 13-year-old twins she shares with ex-husband Marc Anthony, were 'onboard with starting fresh in Los Angeles,' where Ben is based.

On the hunt: Last week, Lopez was seen touring high school in the area with son Max, seemingly confirming moving speculation

On Sunday: Lopez and her twins are currently located in Miami, Florida where her ex-husband/their father Marc Anthony resides

The actor, writer and director prefers not to go far from LA, as he wants to be able to spend as much time as possible with his son and daughters.

Jennifer has long been based in Miami, where her ex-husband also lives, but she seems more open to a West Coast move, especially now that her teens appear to be supportive of the idea.

Their renewed relationship seems to be a dream for the Out Of Sight actress, who sees Ben as 'the one that got away,' a source told Page Six last month.

'Jennifer always saw Ben as the one that got away. She was crushed after they broke up, though she felt at the time that she had no other choice but to call off their engagement,' the insider said.

The A-list couple originally began dating in 2002 and got engaged later that year, but they called off the engagement and split up by early 2004.
Camille Grammer shared a few choice words after watching Erika Jayne break down in tears while describing her 'sham divorce' from estranged husband Tom Girardi.

On Wednesday night's episode of the popular Bravo program, Erika was world's away from her usual glam appearance as black mascara streamed down her face while she discussed the latest updates to her failed marriage with Kyle Richards while cameras were rolling.

But Camille wasn't buying the drama and took to Twitter to talk about the 'messy' season as she recalled a past trip to Bahamas where not one drop of makeup was misplaced on Erika's face even after she went swimming.

Yikes: On Wednesday night's episode of the popular Bravo program, Erika was world's away from her usual glam appearance as black mascara streamed down her face while she discussed the latest updates to her failed marriage with Kyle Richards

'Kyle, this is so hard to do. This is so hard. What's happening is so hard. It's just ...I have such a story to tell. I can't tell it, 'cause it's not the right time,' Erika told Kyle as her mascara streaked from her tears.

'I've never been this overwhelmed, and in a place where my hands are literally tied. ...I could have never predicted this f***ing s***,' Erika said.

Jayne, 50, secretly filed for divorce from her husband of 20-years in November and has since been accused of a 'sham divorce' to hide assets amid mounting lawsuits against the prominent lawyer.

Camille jumped onto Twitter with commentary: 'Omg! #rhobh is so messy rt now. So much to unravel.'

After a fan commented about missing Camille's 'shut it down' approach to filming, Grammer asked her followers to look deeper into the problem.

Shots fired: Camille wasn't buying the drama and took to Twitter to talk about the 'messy' season as she recalled a past trip to Bahamas where not one drop of makeup was misplaced on Erika's face even after she went swimming

Housewives history: Camille starred on RHOBH in seasons one and two and has played a friend role on and off through the years

She wrote: 'We filmed in the Bahamas season 9 and we were all swimming in the water. I don't remember seeing EJ's mascara run after swimming underwater. Just saying.'

Tom is currently under investigation amid accusations he 'misappropriated at least $2 million' meant for the families, including orphans and widows, of those killed in the Lion Air Flight 610 crash in Indonesia in 2018.

A class-action lawsuit filed by Edelson PC in December against Tom and Erika alleged they were 'on the verge of financial collapse and locked in a downward spiral of mounting debts and dwindling funds'.

In March, the LA Times reported that there had been more than 100 lawsuits filed and multiple complaints made to the California State Bar against Tom by disgruntled clients who alleged financial wrongdoing and theft.

Not so fast: Fans joined the chorus against Erika with tweets and memes knocking her attempt at showing remorse for the situation

'Watching #RHOBH and was totally team @erikajayne and believed her until I saw her black mascara running down her face. Yep don't believe it,' @PeaceLove_Shoes wrote

'Watching Erika Jayne pretend to cry while she says "I didn't do this,"' @wrexweed wrote across a meme of Ray Liotta's character, Henry Hill, from the movie Goodfellas

'What a show! You cry all the time but that was the first time to see the mascara run like that,' @yoyoepp wrote. 'Close but not believable'

Final say: Lisa Rinna attempted to stop the discussion with: 'Oh someone needs some attention ok sweetie.. #YouAreStillAnAssholeOnTwitter

Fans joined the chorus against Erika with tweets and memes knocking her attempt at showing remorse for the situation.

'Just because you fake cry and let a coupe of tears run down your ice cold face and say you didn't do this doesn't mean it's the truth,' @Bre_Breezie11 wrote.

'Watching #RHOBH and was totally team @erikajayne and believed her until I saw her black mascara running down her face. Yep don't believe it,' @PeaceLove_Shoes wrote. 'No one wears runny mascara when they know they were going to cry. Seemed planned. Love her but.... No good makeup artist would do that.'

'Watching Erika Jayne pretend to cry while she says "I didn't do this,"' @wrexweed wrote across a meme of Ray Liotta's character, Henry Hill, from the movie Goodfellas.

Lisa Rinna attempted to stop the discussion with: 'Oh someone needs some attention ok sweetie.. #YouAreStillAnAssholeOnTwitter.
Married At First Sight's Patrick Dwyer is single and ready to mingle after confirming his split with 'wife' Belinda Vickers this week.

And on Thursday, the 27-year-old proved he wasn't too wounded by the break-up as he hit the town with his friends in Melbourne, just hours before the city's snap five-day lockdown.

Patrick' pal shared a photo of the reality TV star enjoying a beer on his Instagram stories.

Single and ready to mingle! Married At First Sight's Patrick Dwyer hit the town for some pre-lockdown drinks with his friends in Melbourne on Thursday, after confirming his split from Belinda Vickers earlier this week

The image also included the cheeky caption: 'New and improved pest on the scene.'

Later, the F45 trainer shared a video of Patrick enjoying a round of shots with his some female friends.

Patrick's pre-lockdown night out comes after he confirmed on Instagram that he and Belinda had split up after nine months together.

Shots, shots, shots! Patrick enjoyed a round of shots with his some female friends

Over: Patrick's pre-lockdown night out comes after he confirmed on Instagram that he and Belinda had split up after nine months

In a statement on Monday, he said: 'We would like to address the rumours of our split and confirm we have gone our separate ways.'

'We have enjoyed a relationship together for over nine months; however, we do not want the same things in love and life.

'We appreciate all the love and support we have received through our journey.'

Split: Their statement said: 'We have enjoyed a relationship together for over nine months; however, we do not want the same things in love and life'

Saleswoman Belinda shared an identical statement to her own Instagram account and told Who magazine on Monday that splitting up 'wasn't an easy decision' to make.

She explained that while the pair had always been a 'team', it became apparent they didn't have the same 'family goals'.

'We tried to work through it and talk about what we could do about our differences, but it gets to a point when you realise you have to cut your losses,' she said.

'We tried to work through it': Saleswoman Belinda shared an identical statement to her own Instagram account and told Who magazine on Monday that splitting up 'wasn't an easy decision' to make

Belinda recently told Daily Mail Australia she was trying to keep herself distracted following their mutual decision to split.

'I have been keeping busy, seeing my friends and family. I am always focusing on the positives, as I am a naturally positive person,' she said.

The last time the couple were seen together on Patrick's social media was on June 9, in photos and videos showing them having a stroll in a park.
Everything is coming up roses for Married At First Sight Australia star Tamara Joy.

After recently moving to London and finding love with Love Island UK hunk and OnlyFans model Tom Powell, she is now jetting off on a holiday to Greece.

The reality star and Instagram model was beaming as she checked out of her NYX Holborn hotel on Thursday and headed to the airport.

Hot girl Summer! Married at First Sight star Tamara Joy showed off her toned legs in a tiny romper as she left London for a holiday in Greece on Thursday

The brunette beauty showed off her toned legs and her deep tan in a tiny black romper as she strutted along the sidewalk with her luggage.

She added a pop of colour to her holiday attire by adding a lime green denim jacket and boosted her height with some patent ankle boots

Tamara accessorised with gold jewels and wore her long dark out straight.

Looking good! The brunette beauty showed off her toned legs and her deep tan in a tiny black romper as she strutted along the sidewalk with her luggage.

Not seen with the TV star was her new boyfriend, Love Island UK hunk and OnlyFans model Tom Powell.

Tamara and Tom romance was confirmed earlier this week.

The tattooed 29-year-old confirmed the news during an interview with Simon Gross on his Love Island Extra show.

'I'm dating someone off Married At First Sight,' said Tom, who currently works as an OnlyFans model.

Flying solo? Not seen with the TV star was her new boyfriend, Love Island UK hunk and OnlyFans model Tom Powell

No looking back! Tamara recently moved to London after being granted a work permit

She's found love! Tamara and Tom romance was confirmed earlier this week

'Do you know the Australian Married At First Sight? So, Tamara off there,' he continued.

'She's flown over from Australia. She's been here for a month, six weeks now. She's in the other room over there.'

Tamara has been living it up in London since her arrival and making the most of her newfound fame in the UK.

The brunette beauty has been spotted partying at several celebrity hotspots and has even attended a few red carpet events.

In an interview with The Sun, the Aussie stunner said that she was planning to stay in the UK 'long-term' to carve out a new career in the media.

'I have some work coming up, just little bits and pieces really,' she said.

She also acknowledger her romance with Tom, but refused to go into details.

Social scene! Tamara has been living it up in London since her arrival and making the most of her newfound fame in the UK

'I am dating someone, it's going well but I am going to keep that to myself,' she said cryptically.

'It is quite fresh, youll have to just wait and see,' she added.

Tom shot to fame on the second season of Love Island UK back in 2016.

He was in a relationship with the late Sophie Gradon from day 1 in the villa, before eventually being dumped on day 33.

Sophie committed suicide in June 2018 following a cocaine and alcohol binge hours after revealing she was 'struggling with the world'.

Upon hearing the news, Tom wrote on Twitter: 'Always had a way with words  You will be dearly missed by so many'.

Flashback: Tom shot to fame on the second season of Love Island UK back in 2016

Memories: He was in a relationship with the late Sophie Gradon from day 1 in the villa, before eventually being dumped on day 33

In the years since appearing on the show, he has become a bodybuilder and CrossFit trainer.

He's also a popular OnlyFans model, where he makes a mint selling nude photos and videos of himself to subscribers.

Last year, the Daily Star reported that Thomas was 'rating people's private parts via text or voice message' on the X-rated site for as little as 5.

It's unclear if he still provides the service or if he's discontinued it now.

For confidential support call Lifeline on 13 11 14
Robson Green has candidly reflected on his battle with alcohol and drugs for the first time.

The Grantchester star, 56, shot to fame after starring in series Soldier Soldier when he was just 26 years old.

Speaking ahead of his new show Robson and Jim's Icelandic Fishing Adventure, the actor detailed how at the time he was 'losing touch with what mattered in life'.

'I was losing touch with what mattered in life': Grantchester star Robson Green has revealed his secret struggle with alcohol and drugs after finding fame at 26

Speaking to The Mirror, he said: 'I was just 26 years old when real fame came knocking at my door with a drama called Soldier Soldier watched by 21 million people... I started having real problems with fame and alcohol and drugs.'

And although enjoying the 'recognition and parties' that came with his stardom, Robson admitted he wasn't happy and was 'losing touch with what mattered in life'.

Explaining how he turned things around, Robson said after his miner father asked if he was happy he knew he wasn't satisfied with life and went to therapy.

He said: 'Dad goes 'Are you happy?', and I went 'Yeah,' but deep down I knew I wasn't and I realised I didn't have anything. Because all I was doing in my life was acting.'

One to watch: The Grantchester star shot to fame after starring in the ITV army drama series Soldier Soldier when he was just 26 years old.

After speaking with a therapist Robson rediscovered his love for fishing, something which he says was a 'turning point' for him.

The star revealed: 'Getting back into fishing was a turning point for me... Ive learnt so much from fishing and found an inner peace that was missing.'

Robson found fame in the Nineties with ITV drama Soldier Soldier, which featured the daily lives of a group of soldiers in a fictional British Army infantry regiment after the Cold War.

Candid: Although enjoying the 'recognition and parties' that came with his stardom, Robson admitted he wasn't happy and was 'losing touch with what mattered in life'

He formed the band Robson & Jerome with his co-star Jerome Flynn and the pair bagged a No 1 hit singing Unchained Melody.

The actor is currently starring in ITV crime series Grantchester and is in a relationship with partner Zoila Short.

The actor has had a colourful love life. His first marriage was to Alison Ogilvie, an occupational therapist, in 1991.

It ended eight years later after he was reportedly found to have been having a four-year affair with Pamela McDonald, who was married to Emmerdale actor Ian Sharrock.

Cute couple: The actor is currently starring in ITV crime series Grantchester and is in a relationship with partner Zoila Short (pictured in 2019)

In 2001 Green married former Page 3 model Vanya Seager. That marriage ended in divorce in 2013 after the pair had not lived together for two years.

It is thought he then dated air hostess Stephanie Short after meeting her on a plane where she was part of the cabin crew.

In 2016, he met his current partner Zoila - a Sunday school teacher - at a gym in Newcastle while she was married to the Reverend Geoffrey Short.

After their relationship was made public, Reverend Short was said to have told his congregation at St Columbas Church in the village of Wideopen of his heartache and to have said it led him to question his faith.

Robson currently stars in ITV drama Grantchester playing Detective Inspector Geordie Keating, who investigates crime alongside local Reverend Will Davenport, played by Tom Brittney.

The new series of Grantchester started filming in the Cambridgeshire village of the same name last autumn and is expected to air in the coming months.

Tessa Peake-Jones is expected to return as Miss Chapman and Al Weaver will once again play Leonard Finch, while Kacey Ainsworth (Cathy Keating), Oliver Dimsdale (Daniel Marlowe) and Nick Brimble (Jack Chapman) will also reprise their roles .

ITV have also confirmed a number of special guest stars for the series, including Jemma Redgrave, Gary Beadle, Dominic Mafham, Rachael Stirling and Rebecca Front.

The new instalments will be set in 1958, with the unlikely crime-fighting duo solving yet more cases.
Sir Ian McKellen has revisited his role as Hamlet, 50 years after first starring in the Shakespeare tragedy.

The actor, 82, posed for a photocall at the Theatre Royal in Windsor on Thursday ahead of opening night next week.

Sir Ian - who recently insisted Hamlet is bisexual - is taking on the leading role in an age-blind interpretation of the tragedy.

Back again: Ian McKellen, 82, revisits his Hamlet role in 'age-blind' production 50 years on from his starring role... after insisting the Shakespeare character is bisexual

Despite his advancing years and experience, the thespian still demonstrated a passion for the role as he posed on a throne and with Yorick's skull.

It is thought Hamlet was meant to be around 30 years old, while speculation over the character's sexuality has long been rife.

Scholars have previously pointed out that while Hamlet is romantically involved with Ophelia, their relationship appears strained.

Throwback: The theatre veteran first played the Prince of Denmark in the tragedy 50 years ago and will take on the part again in a production opening at the Theatre Royal Windsor next week

One to watch: Sir Ian - who recently insisted Hamlet is bisexual - is taking on the leading role in an age-blind interpretation of the tragedy

The Prince of Denmark is cruel to her, and she becomes a lightning rod for his anger over Gertrude's marriage to Claudius, while others highlight the fact the pair simply share very little time on stage together.

Hamlet also appears to have complex relationships with many of the male characters, including Rosencrantz who tells him in the play: 'You did love me once'.

Similarly, he is extremely close to Horatio, telling him: 'Since my dear soul was mistress of her choice and could of men distinguish, her election hath seal'd thee for herselfgive me that man that is not passion's slave, and I will wear him in my heart's core, ay, in my heart of heart, as I do thee.'

Got a bone to pick: Despite his advancing years and experience, the thespian still demonstrated a passion for the role as he posed on a throne and with Yorick's skull

Aging years: It is thought Hamlet was meant to be around 30 years old, while speculation over the character's sexuality has long been rife

Meanwhile, the sexuality of Shakespeare himself has also been a topic of debate, despite his well-documented marriage to Anne Hathaway, with whom he had three children.

Some scholars argue analysis of his sonnets suggests he is bisexual, as they are described as love poems addressed to a man, while also featuring puns relating to homosexuality.

Could Hamlet be bisexual? Speculation over the character's sexuality has long been rife. Scholars have previously pointed out that while Hamlet is romantically involved with Ophelia, their relationship appears strained. The prince is cruel to her, and she becomes a lightning rod for his anger over Gertrude's marriage to Claudius, while others highlight the fact the pair simply share very little time on stage together. Hamlet also appears to have complex relationships with many of the male characters, including Rosencrantz who tells him in the play: 'You did love me once'. Similarly, he is extremely close to Horatio, telling him: 'Since my dear soul was mistress of her choice and could of men distinguish, her election hath seal'd thee for herselfgive me that man that is not passion's slave, and I will wear him in my heart's core, ay, in my heart of heart, as I do thee.' Meanwhile, the sexuality of Shakespeare himself has also been a topic of debate, despite his well-documented marriage to Anne Hathaway, with whom he had three children. Some scholars argue analysis of his sonnets suggests he is bisexual, as they are described as love poems addressed to a man, while also featuring puns relating to homosexuality. Advertisement

Speaking about the upcoming performance, Sir Ian told BBC Radio 4's Front Row: 'When you come see me you won't see an old man pretending to be a young man, you'll see a man pretending to be a prince, pretending to be an intellectual, pretending to be a neurotic, pretending to love his mother, pretending to love girls and boys.

'You didn't know that was in Hamlet did you?

'It's there, Rosencrantz to Hamlet: 'You did love me once'.'

Discussing returning to the role in his 80s, Sir Ian said: 'I suppose I thought I might be playing Polonius, 'No we'd like you to play Hamlet', said Sean (Mathias, theatre director).

'There was a pause, I thought that sounds like a bit of a silly idea, and then I thought no if that's what you want to do, if you want to just say at the beginning of the show;

'Here is a group of actors - all sizes, shapes and ages, and colours and ethnicities, and experience - and we're going to tell the old familiar story, but perhaps not in the old familiar way', that seemed to me an adventure worth going on.'

Sir Ian came out during a BBC radio appearance in 1988 and said he could not recall if it was planned or a spontaneous decision.

He said: 'I can't tell you for certain, but I know I'd been thinking about it and discussing with friends who were open about their sexuality as to whether it would be an appropriate thing for me to do.

'People I talked to, principally Armistead Maupin, author of Tales Of The City, he said it would be important for me in my development as a person, but he said it would be important for other people.

'Well, that rather appealed to me, coming from a family of "do-gooders".

'I hadn't felt up to that time that I was disadvantaged by the laws of the land which made it illegal for me to make love, because I simply broke the law.

'But of course when I grew up and understood what the actual laws were - and this pernicious new little law (Section 28) that was being brought in, very mean spirited, inhibiting children to being introduced to the fact of homosexuality in society - it was only when I realised that there was grave injustice, that I realised it was a grave injustice against me and I took it personally, and once I'd taken it personally it became obvious not what I had to do, but wanted to do.'

Asked if it liberated him, he replied: 'Totally, oh yes.

'Once you are free as everyone else is, to choose to be your own person and express yourself in your own way - which when you're in the closet you can't and don't do - your life of course changes in every aspect for the better, particularly in relationships with other people.

'Is it any wonder that my acting got better? It did, almost overnight. Now my acting is not about disguise but about revelation.'
Antonio Banderas is joining the star-studded cast of Indiana Jones 5.

The news was announced Thursday but with no clues as to the character the 60-year-old Spanish actor will be playing, Variety reported.

Production on the highly-anticipated project is currently underway in the UK although star Harrison Ford, 79, is currently unable to film due to a shoulder injury he sustained on set.

New role: Antonio Banderas is joining the star-studded cast of Indiana Jones 5. The news was announced Thursday but with no clues as to the character the Spanish actor will be playing

Banderas has most recently been seen on screen in The Hitmans Wifes Bodyguard opposite Ryan Reynolds, Samuel L. Jackson and Salma Hayek.

He's most famous for voicing Puss In Boots in the Shrek animated franchise and first came to prominence in Hollywood in the 1990s with roles in Philadelphia, Interview With The Vampire and Mask of Zorro.

He is fitting in filming for Indy 5 alongside the currently in production thriller The Enforcer and preparations for the true crime limited series The Monster of Florence which he is executive producing as well as starring in.

Spanish star: Banderas, 60, pictured in March, has most recently been seen on screen in The Hitmans Wifes Bodyguard opposite Ryan Reynolds, Samuel L. Jackson and Salma Hayek

Indy: Production on the highly-anticipated project is currently underway in the UK although star Harrison Ford, 79, is currently unable to film due to a shoulder injury he sustained on set

Star: Before his accident, Ford as seen filming on location in the Scottish Borders last month with British actor Tony Jones, Production is also taking place at England's Pinewood Studios

Indiana Jones 5 started shooting at England's Pinewood Studios in June and most recently has been filming on location in the Scottish city of Glasgow which is doubling for 1960's Manhattan.

On Wednesday, British actress and Fleabag star Phoebe Waller-Bridge was seen on set in Glasgow doing scenes with a Harrison Ford double.

The streets have been dressed to resemble New York City in the days following the Apollo 11 moon landing in 1969, with yellow taxi cabs, vintage automobiles and American flags.

Also in the cast are British actor Toby Jones, Danish star mads Mikkelsen, German actor Thomas Kretschmann and American actress Shaunette Renee Wilson.

Directed by James Mangold, the film is currently slated to be release in theaters on July 29, 2022. On Wednesday, British actress and Fleabag star Phoebe Waller-Bridge was seen on set in Glasgow doing scenes with a Harrison Ford double.

Set in the sixties: On Wednesday, British actress and Fleabag star Phoebe Waller-Bridge was seen on set in Glasgow doing scenes with a Harrison Ford double
Cuba and Haiti are boiling over. They cant stay on Bidens back burner any longer
Dancehall sensation Elephant Man tidied up his crib on Monday to once again give fans a mini-tour of the updated interior and his backyard. The 12,000 sq. feet hillside mansion is located in Kingston, Jamaica.

In 2009, an episode of Jamaican MTV Cribs allowed viewers from all over to take in Eles massive multi-colored home boasting 10 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, a gym, disco club (w/pool table and stripper pole), outdoor bar, waterfalls, coi pond, pool + Jacuzzi, complete with a kings view overlooking the city.

At the time he also had 4 chefs, 1 shark, 6 rabbits, several birds, and 15 dogs  Shizzle, Good to Go, Pan Di River, Over the Wall, Jook Gyal, Paris, and London to name a few.

Then again in 2018, the Energy God took viewers through his most recent updates to the manor, which saw significant cosmetic enhancements, done Eles way to include a functional swimming pool, lots of figurines and outdoor statues, lush landscape views, and lots more.

However, a year later in 2019, Elephant decided his crib needed some mature modifications and finessing. He ditched the overly colorful, yellow, green, pink, red, orange paint job and switched to a two-tone combination of Burgundy and Cream.

After many years of traveling and gaining different cultural experiences, an older and more mature Elephant Man said he grew ill of seeing the eyesore he had created.

The color ugh!  Until mi start travel and mi sey but when mi look round pon the house dem pon di hill (his neighbors homes), mi sey you know sey mi do one ediat job with painting pon mi house, he told the Jamaica Star Online in an interview.

Now, the 45-year-old Dancehall star says he has a house fi turn on the ladies and viewers got an up-close and personal tour this week on a TikTok and Instagram video courtesy of the deejay.

This is Mr. Oneal Bryan and youre at the Oneal Bryan residence and Im just giving you a little Monday evening run-through. Me just tidy up mi place so mi just a make a walkthrough, you ready? Ele said before proceeding with the tour of his home.

With Barbra Streisand and Barry Gibbs Guilty setting the mood for the tour, Elephant Man welcomed viewers inside his living room, which was adorned with what appears to be a new sectional, a flat-screen TV, his enormous fish tank (void of the shark), an oversized chandelier, and a considerable amount of elaborate accent pieces (he loves figurines).

A quick trip up the stairway by the wall of fame and fortune which hung a few wall paintings and many mirrors (he likes to look at himself), gave us a peek of 3 of the 10 bedrooms, including the master with the Kings bed, a very ornate poster bed.

Then it was off to the kitchen settings where Ele showed off his fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a bar counter w/stools adjoining the dining hall, and breakfast nook.

Downstairs, he says is the movie theatre but preferred to wrap up the tour with a backyard viewing. There, was an outside kitchen, bar, disco club, and swimming pool complete with a gazebo.

Watch the full tour of Elephant Mans mansion here:

elephant man trilling at home on a Monday give God thanks blessing 

Check out a birds eye view via drone footage of Elephant Mans home here:
LONDON (AP)  Heres some of what happened while the world was distracted by the coronavirus: Hungary banned the public depiction of homosexuality. China shut Hong Kongs last pro-democracy newspaper. Brazils government extolled dictatorship. And Belarus hijacked a passenger plane to arrest a journalist.

COVID-19 has absorbed the worlds energies and isolated countries from one another, which may have accelerated the creep of authoritarianism and extremism across the globe, some researchers and activists believe.

COVID is a dictators dream opportunity, said Theary Seng, a Cambodian-American human rights lawyer who has been indicted on charges including treason in the ostensibly democratic southeast Asian nation, where Prime Minister Hun Sen has been in power for more than three decades.

Human Rights Watch accuses Cambodias government of using the pandemic as cover to imprison political opponents without due process. Scores have been indicted and face mass trials.

When it comes to government opposition, the fear of COVID, on its own and as a political weapon, has substantially restricted mobility for a gathering or movement to take shape, Seng said.

The biggest global public health emergency in a century has handed power to government authorities and restricted life for billions of people.

Luke Cooper, a London School of Economics researcher and author of the book Authoritarian Contagion, said the vast economic, health and social resources poured into fighting the pandemic mean the state is back as a force to manage society and to deliver public goods.

Restrictions on civil liberties or political opponents have been stepped up during the pandemic on several continents.

For a decade in Hungary, conservative nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban has curtailed media and judicial freedom, criticized multiculturalism and attacked Muslim migrants as a threat to Europes Christian identity.

During the pandemic, Orbans government brought in an emergency powers bill allowing it to implement resolutions without parliamentary approval -- effectively a license to rule by decree. In June, it passed a law prohibiting the sharing of content portraying homosexuality or sex reassignment with anyone under 18. The government claims the purpose is to protect children from pedophiles, but it effectively outlawed discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity in schools and the media.

Polands conservative government has chipped away at the rights of women and gay people. A ruling last year by a government-controlled court that imposed a near-total ban on abortion triggered a wave of protests that defied a ban on mass gatherings during the virus outbreak.

In India, the worlds biggest democracy, populist Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been accused of trying to silence voices critical of his administrations response to a brutal pandemic wave that tore through the country in April and May. His government has arrested journalists and ordered Twitter to remove posts that criticized its handling of the outbreak after introducing sweeping regulations that give it more power to police online content.

Even before the pandemic, Modis ruling Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party was accused by opponents of squashing dissent and introducing policies aimed at refashioning a multifaith democracy into a Hindu nation that discriminates against Muslims and other minorities.

In Russia, the government of President Vladimir Putin has used the pandemic as its latest excuse to arrest opposition figures. Associates of jailed opposition figure Alexei Navalny have been subjected to house arrest and charges that the mass protests against his arrest violated regulations on mass gatherings.

In neighboring Belarus, authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko extended his quarter-century iron grip on power by winning an August 2020 election that the opposition -- and many Western countries -- said was rigged. The huge protests that erupted were met with tear gas, rubber bullets and mass arrests.

Then, in May, a Ryanair plane flying from Athens to Vilnius was forced to land in the Belarusian capital of Minsk after the crew was told of an alleged threat. Opposition journalist Raman Pratasevic, a passenger, was taken off the plane along with his girlfriend and arrested.

Western nations called the forced diversion a brazen hijacking and slapped sanctions on Belarus, but those seem unlikely to induce Lukashenko to change his ways and underscore the weakness of democracies in confronting hardline regimes. Hungarys acts have drawn sharp words from fellow European Union leaders, but the 27-nation bloc has no unified response to restrictive regimes like those in Hungary or Poland.

Even before COVID-19 came along, extremism was on the march.

Over the last 15 years, authoritarian politics has replicated all over the world, Cooper said. Democracy feels very fragile. Democracy doesnt have a clear vision for what its trying to do in the 21st century."

The 2008 global financial crisis, which saw governments pump billions into teetering banks, shook confidence in the Western world order. And the years of recession and government austerity that followed boosted populism in Europe and North America.

In China, authorities saw the 2008 economic crash as evidence that they, and not the worlds democracies, were on the right path.

Historian Rana Mitter, director of the University of Oxford China Center, said the crisis persuaded Chinas communist government that the West no longer had lessons to teach them. Since then, Beijing has increasingly flexed Chinas economic muscle abroad while cracking down on opposition inside its borders.

In recent years, hundreds of thousands of Muslim Uyghurs have been confined in re-education camps in Chinas western Xinjiang region, where activists and former detainees accuse authorities of imposing forced labor, systematic forced birth control and torture. Beijing instead characterizes the camps as vocational training centers.

Beijing also has tightened control on Hong Kong, stifling dissent in the former British colony. Protesters, publishers and journalists critical of Beijing have been jailed and the last remaining pro-democracy newspaper, Apple Daily, stopped publishing in June after the arrest of its top editors and executives.

When the coronavirus first emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan, authorities responded firmly -- though far from transparently -- with draconian lockdowns that got the virus in check.

Mitter said the pandemic has cemented a view -- among many ordinary Chinese, as well as the countrys leaders -- that something had gone very wrong in terms of the way in which the democratic world had dealt with the virus, and something had gone right in China.

That is now being used very much as a lesson, not just about the pandemic, but about the virtues of Chinas system as opposed to the systems of liberal countries, he said.

Last year, curfews and travel restrictions also became commonplace across Europe. People in France needed to show a signed declaration to travel more than 1 kilometer (just over a half-mile) from home. And Britons were banned by law from going on vacation abroad, while some attendees at a London vigil for a murdered woman were arrested for gathering illegally.

British lawmakers have expressed concern about the scope of the Conservative governments emergency powers, many passed without debate in Parliament.

Since March 2020, the government has introduced a large volume of new legislation, much of it transforming everyday life and introducing unprecedented restrictions on ordinary activities, said Ann Taylor, an opposition Labour Party politician who chairs the House of Lords Constitution Committee. Yet parliamentary oversight of these significant policy decisions has been extremely limited.

Politicians and intelligence agencies in the West also have warned of the threat from coronavirus conspiracy theories that dovetail with existing extremist narratives. Many countries have seen large anti-lockdown, anti-mask, anti-vaccine protests attended by a mix of the far right, the far left and assorted conspiracists.

The British government has warned of extremists exploiting the crisis to sow division and undermine the social fabric of our country, with different hate groups variously blaming Muslims, Jews and 5G phone technology for the pandemic.

But there are signs of fighting back. The pandemic also has boosted trust in scientists and spurred demands for more accountable political leadership.

In Hungary, which has one of the worlds highest per-capita coronavirus death rates, there is growing opposition both to the governments pandemic policies and to its wider authoritarian thrust, and thousands have taken to the streets in support of academic freedom and LGBT rights. With an election due in 2022, a six-party opposition coalition has united to try to unseat Orbans Fidesz party.

Both extremism and resistance can be seen in Brazil, where the far-right President Jair Bolsonaro has expressed nostalgia for the countrys two-decade military dictatorship and last year attended protests against the countrys courts and Congress. He dismissed the virus as a little flu, cast doubt on the effectiveness of vaccines and opposed social and economic restrictions.

Renato Meirelles, director of Brazilian polling company Locomotive Institute, said authoritarianism had advanced through a strategy of fake news and attacks on factual truth. The next step will be questioning the electronic vote and, as such, the result of the next election, he said.

Bolsonaro has so far been held in check by Brazils institutions, especially the Supreme Court, which stopped him from preventing states and cities from implementing restrictions to curb COVID-19 and has ordered an inquiry into the governments pandemic response. And protests have finally spilled out onto the streets. Twice over the past month, demonstrators marched in dozens of cities across the country.

Im here to fight for the rights of those in need, for the rights of my children, for my right to live, to have vaccines for all, said Claudia Maria, a protester in Rio de Janeiro.

In the United States, President Joe Biden has veered away from the populism of Donald Trump, but a Republican Party radicalized by the former presidents supporters has every chance of winning power again.

Cooper, of the LSE, said the authoritarian tide was unlikely to recede soon.

This is a struggle between democracy and authoritarianism thats going to last decades, he said.

___

Associated Press Writers Jim Heintz in Moscow, Justin Spike in Budapest, David Biller in Rio de Janeiro, Christopher Bodeen in Beijing, Sheikh Saaliq in New Delhi and Grant Peck in Bangkok contributed.
Memorials to victims of the Holocaust, known as stolpersteine or stumbling blocks, are found throughout Europe from Trondheim, Norway to Thessaloniki, Greece. More than 75,000 of these brass plaques, created by German artist Gunter Demnig, have been placed outside the former homes of the victims, whose names are engraved on the plaques. Emordet Murdered  appears under their names.

These stumbling blocks have inspired the American Witness Stones Project that began in 2017 in Guilford. These Witness Stones, placed as markers, memorialize enslaved individuals. The projects mission is to restore the history and honor the humanity of enslaved individuals who helped build our communities.

The project provides support to middle and high school students as they study the history of slavery in the places where they live. The project has worked with 21 schools, primarily in Connecticut, but also in Massachusetts and New Jersey.

We have to look at our own history of racism and inequality, said project co-founder and executive director Dennis Culliton.

Project co-founder Douglas Nygren views racism as an assault upon our democracy. It must be countered immediately, he says, or else it will rapidly grow. Nygren, a licensed clinical social worker, treats abused children. He sees his skills in treating victims of trauma as helpful in addressing what he considers the national trauma of racism that results from ignorance and hate.

Nygren hopes that the Witness Stones will fight ignorance with truth, and make it clear that Black history, long neglected, is an integral part of the American story.

Will the German stolpersteine initiative work in this American context?

It will work in the United States, said Malte Lehming, a respected commentator for the widely circulated Berlin daily Der Tagesspiegel. But American slavery cannot be compared to the Holocaust, he said. The stolpersteine program must be viewed as a tool to think about the past of another country with a completely different history.

The Witness Stones Project has revealed the extent to which Black people were enslaved in the North, something often ignored, forgotten even, because most Americans associate slavery only with the South.

Two recent initiatives of the Witness Stones Project in Connecticut  in Guilford and in Greenwich  have served to educate the public regarding slavery in these communities.

Although slave labor was exploited in Greenwich for generations, there has never been a memorial for the hundreds of Greenwich slaves. That changed with the placement of Witness Stones as memorials to five slaves on the grounds of the Greenwich Historical Society on May 25. Students at two Greenwich schools  Sacred Heart and Greenwich Academy  researched the lives of these slaves and recounted their stories at the May 25 ceremony.

Some truths are hard to accept, said the Rev. Thomas Nins, pastor of the First Baptist Church, one of the speakers at the ceremony. That there were slaves in the Town of Greenwich is one of those difficult truths.

Remembering the long history of American slavery and racism is especially important now to counter the pervasive denials of systemic racism and the rise of racist extremism. The Connecticut anti-Defamation League reports an alarming jump in the circulation of White Supremacist propaganda.

Patricia Wilson Pheanious, former Connecticut state legislator from Windham County (D-53), and Witness Stones Project board member, is a ninth generation descendant of Guilford slaves. She learned that Montros and Phylis, who were 17 years old when they became the slaves of a Guilford family in 1728, were her ancestors.

This discovery strengthened her deep American roots.

Like many Black children, my history had been hidden, or stolen, she said. And if you dont know who you are and where did you come from you dont know anything about your value.

That knowledge, she said, made her feel not beholden as she had been made to feel. She believes the tool of the stolpersteine, as adapted by the Witness Stone Project, has unearthed her long connection with America.

They used to tell Black children why dont you go back to where you came from, she said.

Her answer now: I came from here.

Greenwich resident Don Snyder is a retired producer at NBC News.
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For Release: Thursday, July 15, 2021

DEC Announces Lake Sturgeon Found Spawning in Genesee River, First in More Than 50 Years

Return of Spawning Lake Sturgeon Signifies Improvements to Ecosystem and Supports New York's Fisheries Restoration and Management Goals

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today announced a milestone in the restoration of the Genesee River following the collection of a spawning female lake sturgeon in the lower Genesee for the first time in more than 50 years. The announcement took place with partners along the banks of the Genesee River in Monroe County. On May 25, 2021, Dr. Dawn Dittman and the field crew from the U.S. Geological Survey's (USGS) Tunison Laboratory of Aquatic Science netted the 61-inch, nearly 70-pound female lake sturgeon. DEC began stocking lake sturgeon into the Lower Genesee River in 2003, as part of the State's efforts to support the species' recovery.

"Working with our partners, DEC's investments and efforts to stock and clean up the Genesee watershed have paid off for lake sturgeon in the Genesee River," said Commissioner Seggos. "This sturgeon thrived in the Genesee as a stocked juvenile and has finally reached maturity to hopefully produce another generation. We appreciate the work of all our federal partners, Monroe County, Seneca Park Zoo, New York Sea Grant, and others improving the Genesee River ecosystem and increasing public awareness of the river's ongoing restoration."

The discovery of the spawning lake sturgeon in lower section of the Genesee River is significant as the area is part of the Rochester Embayment Area of Concern (AOC). The AOC designation was given to 43 areas around the Great Lakes Basin under the U.S.- Canada Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, signifying the chemical, physical, or biological components of the area's ecosystem were degraded as a result of local human activities.

DEC works closely with regulatory partners at the USGS, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, as well as Monroe County Department of Health, to improve water quality and restore habitat in the Rochester Embayment AOC. The return of spawning lake sturgeon provides further evidence that restoration efforts are leading to tangible improvements to the ecosystem and support fisheries restoration and management goals. In addition, the Seneca Park Zoo and New York Sea Grant help educate the public about lake sturgeon and the Genesee River.

Dr. Dittman has worked with DEC to collect scientific data on lake sturgeon since the creation of the stocking program nearly 30 years ago. DEC stocks juvenile lake sturgeon into the Genesee River as part of a statewide recovery effort for the species, currently listed as 'Threatened' in New York State. Part of the recovery criteria for the species is to increase the number of spawning populations across its range in New York.

Dr. Dawn Dittman, Research Ecologist, USGS Great Lakes Science Center, said, "I am thrilled to report this milestone in the long-term restoration of Lake Sturgeon to the Genesee River," Dittman said. "The finding validates scientists' expectation that the first spawning would occur when stocked female sturgeons reached 17 or 18 years old."

Jeff Wyatt, DVM, MPH, Seneca Park Zoo Environmental Advocate, said, "The Seneca Park Zoo is proud to be the temporary home to juvenile lake sturgeon each year to share these amazing fish with the public. We are also glad to see our work on the Rochester Embayment Area of Concern coming to such tangible fruition with the return of spawning lake sturgeon."

Michael Goehle, Project Leader for Lower Great Lakes Fish & Wildlife Conservation Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, said, "The Genesee River restoration program contributes to the overall restoration of Lake Sturgeon in Lake Ontario and its major tributaries, and the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service is proud to support this effort with our partners and across several of our offices and programs. Our Lower Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office assists with migration and population assessments, our New York Field Office assists with propagation efforts and area of concern support, and our Genoa National Fish Hatchery assists with lake sturgeon propagation. Much of this work has been ongoing for more than 20 years."

Across New York, lake sturgeon numbers are on the rise and DEC asks the angling public to continue to support their recovery by releasing accidentally hooked sturgeon immediately. The heat and stress of spawning make lake sturgeon more vulnerable to incidental mortality from angling at this time of year. DEC depends on anglers to support sturgeon by removing the hook in accidental catches while the fish is still in the water and move to a different location or use a different angling technique once the sturgeon is hooked. For more information about the lake sturgeon recovery program in New York State, visit Lake Sturgeon Recovery Plan - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation.

To support stewardship of lake sturgeon, New York Sea Grant has published a Lake Sturgeon Intermediate Curriculum for sixth- to eighth-grade students as part of a suite of lake sturgeon-related resources for school and public use to encourage conservation of one of the largest and longest-living native fish species, and a threatened species, in the Great Lakes. See NY Sea Grant's website (leaves DEC website) for details.

For more information on the Rochester Embayment Area of Concern and restoration activities, visit DEC's website.



Above photos courtesy of USGS, Marc Chalupnicki; Sturgeon (top) and Sturgeon Eggs (bottom)

Additional photos will be available after the event, contact DEC's Press Office for more information.


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Amaravati: The Andhra Pradesh government has issued fresh orders for the implementation of 10 per cent reservation for economically weaker sections (EWS) in education and employment, in accordance with the Constitution 103 Amendment Act.

The state government has, in fact, been implementing EWS reservation in education for the last two years following interim orders passed by the High Court in a writ petition.

Persons who are not covered under the existing scheme of reservations for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and socially and educationally backward classes, with a gross family income below Rs 8 lakh per annum, will get the benefit of EWS reservation, an order issued by Chief Secretary Aditya Nath Das said.

The latest order practically annuls two laws enacted by the previous TDP government in 2019 that split the 10 per cent EWS reservation into equal halves, with one half exclusively for the Kapu community, making it a sub-category under EWS.

The TDP government had sought to enact a legislation in 2017 classifying Kapus as backward classes but the Bill did not receive the Centre's clearance.

"It is pertinent to note that the Bill (No.33) and Acts No 14 and 15 of 2019 are contradictory to each other. The Bill seeks to include Kapus in the list of BCs through a separate category BCF, taking the gross reservations for various categories to 55 per cent," the Chief Secretary said in Wednesday midnight's order.

Das also noted that the Acts 14 and 15 sought to provide five per cent reservation to Kapus under EWS category, treating them as OCs by creating a sub-category within the overall 10 per cent reservation provided by the Constitution 103 Amendment Act, 2019.

Both the Acts were challenged before the AP High Court and the litigation was still pending, he pointed out.

"Any decision taken by the state government should be in compliance with the Constitution 103 Amendment Act, 2019.Anything contrary, and leading to litigation, denies the benefits of reservation to the members of EWS community as mandated," the Chief Secretary said.

Das said the government decided to replicate the principles and guidelines issued in a July 27, 2019 order (for EWS reservation in education) in employment as well.

The EWS reservation would be for appointments in initial posts and services in accordance with the Constitution 103 Amendment Act, subject to the outcome of several petitions and public interest litigation pending before the High Court and the Supreme Court, he added.
Due to incessant rains, the rain water mixed with drainage water is gushing out in low-lying areas of Mithula Nagar as the GHMC has not laid storm water drains in this entire area to enable rain water to go. (Photo: P.Surendra)

HYDERABAD: Overnight rain in and around the city saw several nalas overflowing and the surging rainwater mixing with sewage that burst onto the streets as the underground drain system was overwhelmed with water accumulating across the city.

Many houses were so flooded that people on waking up were shocked to find themselves surrounded by water, sometimes up to their knees and in some cases, even rising to their chest levels. Incidentally, if furniture, electronic items and food stocks were damaged in several houses, many business establishments operating in low-lying areas also suffered huge losses.

Among some of the worst affected areas were Bairamulguda, Saroornagar, Lingojiguda, Nagole, Malkajgiri, and Toli Chowki. Many residents in these areas are now worried whether the drinking water would be safe. Many of them blamed rampant encroachments and the failure of the authorities in upgrading the sewage system.

Though overwhelmed with work, municipal staff could be seen at several locations working tirelessly to clear garbage disrupting water flow, and removing manhole covers for faster clearing of water.

Venkatesh Jampalla, a resident of Ayyappa Colony in LB Nagar, said hundreds of houses have been affected. We were sleeping and even as we realized water was inside the house, it rose to our hip-level.

Kairamkonda Srinivas from Ananda Nilayam Apartment in Shiva Sai Colony near Karmanghat said all the cellars have been filled with rainwater. Bikes and cars have been submerged. We stayed dry as we live on the top floor and we did not have power all night.

According to Marthi Rammohan of Mithalanagar, the problem of water entering houses has been one they have been facing for the past 13 years. Whenever it rains heavily, we face this problem. Manthrala Cheru at Meerpet, into which all the sewage lines from the surrounding colonies empty into, overflow and enter our areas.

Shanker, a resident of Shiridi nagar, Ananad Bagh, said vehicles were drowned. If we want to move out, we have to wade through three feet of water. The situation repeats after every downpour.

Viney Doddolu from Nagole, said roads and colonies are flooded with rain water. Families were scared and there was no place to go in the middle of the night. There has to be a solution for mistakes of the authorities, who allow illegal constructions and encroachments of nalas.

Rajender Prasad, a resident of Bairamulaguda, said the drain system is badly designed by the GHMC. It will take a day or two for the water to clear out but the dirt will be here for weeks, and makes our children fall ill.

Durga Deeplal Chawhan said that the badly affected areas like Mitilanagar, Dindayal Nagar, Lani Nagar, are being helped. The government is doing its best to bring a permanent solution to the problem."
Hyderabad: The city woke up to sight of submerged streets, inundated houses and power cuts on Thursday as several parts of Hyderabad were submerged after torrential rains lashed it since Wednesday night.

The highest rainfall of 212.5 mm was recorded at Bandlaguda, Uppal, followed by Vanasthalipuram, which witnessed 192.3 mm rain. Among some of the worst-hit areas from the rain and water accumulation were LB Nagar, Kapra, Serilingampally, Khairatabad, Golconda and parts of Marredpally.

According to the IMD, the city received an aggregate rainfall of 69 mm as of 8.30 am Thursday, the third-highest rainfall in 24 hours in the last one decade. The highest rainfall was on July 21, 2012, with 115.1 mm and the second-highest rainfall was on July 12, 2013 with 86.4 mm.

However, the all-time record for the highest rainfall in 24 hours was in year 1989. On July 24 that year, the city had received 140.5 mm of rainfall.

The late night rains came in as a rude awakening for some. I woke up at night to the sight of water drops falling on me. I got up and checked and was shocked to find water from the streets gushing into the house. My furniture was floating around. I saw the street outside was full of water and noticed that the nala was overflowing, Vidya Bhushan, a resident of Vasavinagar, said.

The GHMC received 247 calls on the overflowing sewers, 169 on waterlogging and 99 on overflowing nalas and drains.

Social worker T. Satish Gupta said: I request the authorities to take immediate action on a war footing to solve the problem of clogging of the drains.

Others like Ajinkya, a resident of Malkajgiri, said the rains were a true acid test to the roads. There was water everywhere in the night, water entered my neighbours house too, he said.

For the next 48 hours, the weatherman predicts light showers over the state. There is no weather activity that might trigger heavy rainfall for the next 48 hours. But, there is another wave of showers waiting to happen from July 18, K Naga Ratna, director, IMD Hyderabad, told Deccan Chronicle.

In a warning issued for the next 48 hours IMD said: Thunderstorm accompanied with lightning very likely to occur at isolated places in all districts of Telangana. Heavy rain very likely to occur at isolated places in districts of Adilabad, Nirmal, Nizamabad,Siddipet, Yadadri Bhuvangiri, Ranga Reddy, Hyderabad, Medchal Malkajigiri, Vikarabad, Sangareddy, Medak, Kamareddy, Mahbubnagar, Nagarkurnool, Wanaparthi, Narayanpet, Jogulamba Gadwal of Telangana.

The downpour since late evening on Wednesday was such that the lowest amount of rainfall recorded by the automated weather stations of the Telangana State Planning Development Society was 8 cm, in Rajivnagar in Uppal.

Of the 41 such stations the society operates in the GHMC area, 23 recorded 10 cm or more of rain. Among those that bore the brunt of the rain were Prashantnagar in LB Nagar with 192 mm, and its nearby Hastinapuram that received 190mm of rain. Parts of Saroornagar, Uppal, Rajendranagar, Bandlaguda, Saidabad, Musheerabad, Bahadurpura, Charminar and Saidabad received upwards of 10 cm of rain, flooding low-lying areas, with water entering several homes.
The minister also said that Telanganas grandiose Bonalu celebrations were one-of-a-kind and remain unparalleled. (DC Image)

Hyderabad: Union minister for tourism and culture G. Kishan Reddy said that he was trying his best to include Bonalu in the Union governments list of national festivals.

He was speaking at the Lal Darwaja Simhavahini Mahankali Ammavari Bonalu celebrations at Telangana Bhavan in Delhi on Wednesday.

To mark the occasion, Kishan Reddy presented silk clothes to the deity and performed a special puja.

Later, speaking to the media, he stated that the temple committee has been organising the festival at Telangana Bhavan for the past seven years. He prayed that the Ammavaru would free the world from Covid-19 and appealed to everyone to be united in the fight against the pandemic.

The minister also said that Telanganas grandiose Bonalu celebrations were one-of-a-kind and remain unparalleled.

Kishan Reddy wished the people of Telangana state the best of Bonalu festivities and urged the people to celebrate it by maintaining the Covid-19 protocol.
Sher Bahadur Deuba is the new Prime Minister of neighbouring Nepal who succeeded K P Sharma Oli after a Supreme Court ruling cleared his way to claim the top seat. With Deuba now back as the PM for a fifth term, India expects its relation with Nepal that has been murky in the recent past to improve given his previous associations.

Unlike Oli, who has been known to favour China and its aspirations in South Asia, Deuba has shared a cordial relation with India during his previous stints.

When Nepal was framing a new Constitution in 2015, according to a report in The Kathmandu Post, India is said to have urged for a broad-based consensus among stakeholders and Deuba had spoken openly about Indias non-interference and its support. He is also known to have said that India urging for maximum consensus was to ensure that stakeholders do not oppose the Constitution in the future.

Good ties with Nepal is key for India to counter Chinas growing influence in the region and though openly India does not have a stance on Deuba, the possibility of a new dynamic with the Himalayan nation may be encouraging. Indias Ambassador to Nepal, Vinay Mohan Kwatra met the new Prime Minister on Wednesday and said he looks forward to working with Deubas team to deepen India and Nepals bilateral relationship.

Honoured to call on @DeubaSherbdr; extended congratulations and best wishes on becoming PM of Nepal. Looking forward to working with his team to deepen the multifaceted India-Nepal partnership and people-to-people ties for common progress and prosperity.

@MEAIndia@PMOIndia pic.twitter.com/zKxzLJcG1C  IndiaInNepal (@IndiaInNepal) July 14, 2021

However, given the strained ties between the two nations during Oli's term with issues such as putting out of a distorted map showing Lipulek, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura areas belonging to India as its own and issuing statements over the birthplace of Lord Ram that irked many politicians in India, Deuba may need to do some "damage control".

Olis closeness with China even as India engaged in a long-term stand-off with the latter did not help improve the relationship between India and Nepal, at least not until recently. China is said to have sent delegations to Nepal to stabilise the situation within Oli's party. Despite an intervention, issues persisted and the political situation continued to worsen, leading to the dissolving of the government.

A tough road lies ahead of Deuba as he first needs to seek a vote of confidence from the House within a month of his appointment according to the countrys Constitution, and a complicated political equation among various parties and factions may make his survival as PM rather difficult.

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Police scuffle and detain an anti-government demonstrator during a protest in Havana, Cuba on July 11. Hundreds of demonstrators went out to the streets in several cities in Cuba to protest against ongoing food shortages and high prices of foodstuffs, amid the new coronavirus crisis.
A hearse carrying the flag-draped coffin of Brandon Martinez came through downtown Derry on Wednesday afternoon en route to Peabody Funeral Home. Martinez died last month in South Korea while serving in the U.S. Army. Martinez was a 2015 graduate of Londonderry High School. The hearse had an escort into Derry that included state police and members of the Londonderry Police Department.JULIE HUSS/Staff photo
Where are the best places to shop? Who gives the best haircut? Who cooks the best burger? Join our readers in selecting the "Best of Windham."

Make your picks!
An outdoor, cold water swimming pool has been proposed for Buncrana Shore Front at July's meeting of Inishowen Municipal District councillors.

Councillor Rena Donaghey (Fianna Fail) said funding for the outdoor swimming pool could be obtained from Buncrana's Rural Regeneration and Development Funding (RRDF).

Cllr Donaghey added: A number of people have made representations to me regarding the possibility of the installation of an outdoor, cold water swimming pool at the shore front, similar to those in Bundoran and Dungloe, which could that be included in Buncrana's RRDF application.

Seconding the proposal, Cllr Jack Murray (Sinn Fein) said it would be a fantastic amenity.

Cllr Murray said: I have been in an outdoor pool in Dublin. It would certainly be a great tourist attraction for the Buncrana area. It would be a huge pull for people to come to the town and stay.

Supporting the idea of an outdoor pool in Buncrana, Cllr Nicholas Crossan (Independent) said it would enable the town's iconic diving boards to be re-opened.

Cllr Crossan said: At the present time insurance will not cover the diving boards because it is tidal. However, the proposal for an outdoor pool down near the diving board on the shore front would be a great idea. There are at least 200 people swimming in Buncrana every day of the year.
Kriti Sanon on life after Sushant Singh Rajput's death: "It was difficult to mute the noise"

Actor Kriti Sanon says she had to distance herself from the relentless social media chatter around her personal life last year in the aftermath of Sushant Singh Rajput's demise.

Sanon's personal life was caught up in the whirlwind after the tragic demise of her "Raabta" co-star and close friend, Rajput, on June 14, 2020.

Soon after Sanon mourned Rajput's death in an emotional social media post, people began dissecting their equation with the actor facing vicious online trolling.

Sanon said she found comfort in her family amidst the chaos.

"It was difficult to mute the noise. But I had my people and family around me that always kind of helps. Last year, social media was the worst thing that had happened to us. It opened up so much chatter and noise.

"I realised people were frustrated. Maybe, they were taking out that frustration. There was so much of fear, uncertainty and sadness around... I don't blame them completely. But social media has added to a lot of negativity," the actor told PTI.

Sanon, 30, said she realised it was important to detach herself from the constant clamour as "too many people were saying too many things".

She also decided to take a step back when certain things were being "unfair".

"I just felt it was best to stay away from it because what I had to say were extremely personal things which I was sharing with my loved ones. I didn't need to share it with the world.

"I, anyway, felt too many people were saying too many things. I didn't want to be a part of that noise. I felt a lot of things were also going unfair. So I didn't want to be a participant in that," she added.

On the work front, Sanon will next feature in "Mimi", scheduled to be released on Netflix and Jio Cinema on July 30.

The film, directed by Laxman Utekar and co-written by Rohan Shankar, will feature Sanon as a surrogate mother.

"Mimi" is a remake of Samruddhi Porey-directed feature "Mala Aai Vhaaychya", which won the National Award for best feature film in Marathi in 2011.

The Hindi remake is being produced by Dinesh Vijan's Maddock Films in association with Jio Studios.
Sushant Singh Rajput's sister Shweta prays for the success of Pavitra Rishta 2 after recent backlash on social media

Pavitra Rishta, the show that made Ankita Lokhande and Sushant Singh Rajput household names years ago, is making a comeback on OTT as a limited series. As the first look of the show emerged with Shaheer Shaikh replacing Sushant as Manav and Ankita reprising her look as Archana, there was some backlash that came with it.

For starters, the fans of the late actor were not happy to see Shaheer in Sushants place, others also trolled Ankita. Despite the mixed reactions from fans for reasons emotionally attached to Sushant Singh Rajputs memory, the late actors sister Shweta Singh Kirti has shown her support for the new season on social media.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ankita Lokhande (@lokhandeankita)

Taking to Instagram, Shweta shared Shaheer and Ankita picture from Pavitra Rishta 2 and wished them luck for the new season. Prayers for the success of Pavitra Rishta, she wrote in one story featuring Ankita on the sets. In another Sushants sister wrote, I am so happy about this. Wishing luck to the Pavitra Rishta team.

Pavitra Rishta 2 will return as a limited series on OTT. The shoot for the show will soon begin which is yet to get a release date. Actor Shaheer Sheikh who is replacing Sushant on the show recently also penned a heartfelt tribute to the late actor and said that he will always remain Manav.
Minister Coveney meets his Slovenian counterpart, Foreign Minister Dr. Anze Logar

Press release

Simon Coveney, TD, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, today met with his Slovenian counterpart, Foreign Minister, Dr. Anze Logar, during his visit to Ireland.

Slovenia currently holds the Presidency of the EU Council of Ministers and Minister Logar was visiting in this context to discuss Slovenias Presidency priorities. Minister Logar and Minister Coveney also participated together in a ceremony formally re-opening the Slovenian Embassy in Dublin.

Minister Coveney said I am pleased to welcome Minister Logar to Dublin and was delighted to jointly open the Slovenian Embassy with him today. This is an important opportunity for us to reinforce the connections between our two countries and to share perspectives as we discuss significant EU and international issues, including those which Ireland is currently addressing as a Member of the UN Security Council.

Minister Logar also met with Thomas Byrne, TD, Minister of State for European Affairs, who said Although Slovenia is a country geographically distant from Ireland, it is one with which we enjoy warm bilateral relations and have always collaborated effectively together on many EU issues. We look forward to working closely with our Slovenian colleagues during their EU Presidency to promote our shared EU values.

The Slovenian EU Presidency emphasised the importance of unity and solidarity among EU Member States. Slovenia looks forward to working with Ireland on strengthening bilateral relations and mutual cooperation in international fora.

The Ministers discussed a wide range of issues including Slovenias priorities for its EU Presidency, EU Enlargement and the Western Balkans, Irelands membership of the United Nations Security Council, the Conference on the Future of Europe, Rule of Law, Transatlantic relations, the COVID-19 situation and Belarus.

ENDS

Press Office

15 July 2021

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Arria Meeting: Ensuring Full, Equal & Meaningful Participation of Women in UN-led Peace Processes

Publication

On International Womens Day, 8 March 2021, Ireland and Mexico co-hosted an Arria formula meeting of the United Nations Security Council on Call to Lead by Example: Ensuring the Full, Equal and Meaningful Participation of Women in UN-led Peace Processes. The meeting was co-sponsored by Estonia, France, Kenya, Niger, Norway, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tunisia, the United Kingdom, the United States and Viet Nam.

We are pleased to share the compilation of statements made at the meeting by the briefers, members of the Security Council, and other United Nations Member States, as well as the written statements submitted. This is not a verbatim transcript and the statements may be checked against delivery by viewing the recording of the meeting, which is available below and on UN Web TV.

Briefer and Member State Statements

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Statement by Ambassador Flynn at the UNSC Briefing on the Situation in Libya

Statement

Thank you, Mr. President,

And thank you Special Envoy for your comprehensive briefing. I also want to thank France for convening todays meeting at a high-level, reflecting the importance we all attach to Libyas future.

I want to welcome, in particular, the presence here today of Prime Minister Dbeibeh, and also the participation of Ministers and Secretary General Aboul Gheit.

Mr. President,

At this critical moment, for Libya, it would be remiss not to highlight the significant progress that has been achieved to date. The October Ceasefire Agreement and the endorsement of the Government of National Unity in March are very important and hard won achievements.

But, as others have outlined, more remains to be done. This includes the holding of elections in December as scheduled; the immediate withdrawal of all foreign fighters and mercenaries from Libya, and the unification of Libyas political, security and economic institutions.

With this in mind, Ireland welcomes and endorses the Conclusions of the Second Berlin Conference on the 23rd of June.



Mr. President,

It is deeply regrettable that the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum was unable to agree the constitutional basis for December elections by the 1 July deadline. We reiterate our firm support for the holding of national Presidential and Parliamentary elections on the 24th of December, as set out in the LPDFs agreed political roadmap, and in accordance with resolution 2570. We call on the the Libyan authorities and the House of Representatives to make all necessary preparations and encourage the LPDF to continue to search for a workable compromise on the constitutional basis.

UNSMIL should now redouble its efforts to safeguard the political process against all risks to progress. The holding of free, fair and inclusive elections is the foundation of any democratic society. Any delays to the December timeline risk jeopardising both Libyas political transition, and the prospects for security and economic reform. This Council will have the opportunity to take stock of progress in September.

We regard inclusive voter education, as well as measures to ensure the safety of all participants in the political process as essential components of election preparation. Ireland underlines the necessity - and the right - of women to participate and engage fully in all areas related to the democratic transition, conflict resolution and peacebuilding. Youth must also be supported and involved in such processes.

Mr. President,

We encourage UNSMIL to proceed with its deployment of ceasefire monitors to Libya as soon as possible. The importance of fully integrating a gender perspective into ceasefire monitoring, in line with UNSCR 2570, cannot be overstated.

We welcome the unanimous adoption of Security Council Resolution 2578 last month, and commend Operation IRINI for its ongoing efforts to support implementation of the arms embargo.

We also encourage further international support and regional cooperation between Libya and its neighbours to enable the disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration of armed groups and a coordinated return to their countries of origin.

Mr. President,

In addition to political and security challenges, we should not neglect the importance of addressing vital humanitarian and development issues. Economic and financial reform, as well as the strengthening of Libyan institutions, is critical for long-term recovery. We welcome the conclusion of the international financial audit review of the Central Bank of Libya, which paves the way for unification, as you have outlined earlier, Special Envoy. We also call on the House of Representatives to approve a budget permitting essential humanitarian and infrastructure interventions to progress.

We stress that all parties in Libya must comply with their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law, and note with concern the serious violations outlined in the Secretary Generals report. We underscore the need to ensure accountability for such violations. Countering impunity is essential to preventing future violations and we fully support the work of the Independent Fact Finding Mission in this regard.

We welcome the Government of National Unitys efforts, working with the African Union in particular, to create a national reconciliation process, and encourage the Libyan authorities to strengthen transitional justice institutions. The work of the ICC must be seen as complementary to these important domestic initiatives. We continue to call on States to cooperate with the Court as it investigates allegations of serious international crimes in Libya.

Mr. President,

We are extremely concerned about grave violations against children in Libya and echo the concerns made by the Special Envoy earlier. It is essential that child protection provisions are included in ceasefire monitoring and the transitional processes. We call for an end to the practice of arbitrary and indefinite detention of migrants, especially the detention of children.

I will conclude, Mr. President, by recalling our collective responsibility, as members of this Council, to deliver on the commitments of the Berlin Conference, and relevant Council resolutions, to enable the Libyan people to build a unified, democratic and peaceful country.

Thank you.

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Governor Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) today announced the launch of Our Doctors, a statewide multimedia campaign that brings together health care professionals across the state of Wisconsin, from different health systems and specialties, to share their confidence in the COVID-19 vaccines. This campaign encourages Wisconsinites who may be hesitant about vaccines to start a conversation with their own family doctor about the COVID-19 vaccines.

From the beginning of this pandemic, weve trusted science and healthcare professionals to guide our states response, and now our state and our economy are bouncing back as we get more vaccine shots in arms, said Gov. Evers. Our doctors have played a critical role all along, and Im grateful for their work making sure Wisconsinites know the COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective so we can continue our economic recovery and put this pandemic behind us.

As health care professionals it is important that we create a safe and welcoming space to answer any questions our patients may have and help them work through any of their lingering concerns, said Dr. Jasmine Zapata, Chief Medical Officer for Community Health. We understand that there are valid reasons why some may still be hesitant to get the COVID-19 vaccine, but one thing you should never be hesitant about is having an open conversation with your doctor.

Our Doctors is part of the larger You Stop the Spread campaign, which in recent weeks has primarily focused on COVID-19 vaccine education and the importance of becoming fully vaccinated. The Our Doctors campaign seeks to spark a conversation between Wisconsinites who may be hesitant to get vaccinated and their own family doctor. Our Doctors began rolling out in late June, and residents of Wisconsin will be able to see the messaging on television, radio, and billboards as well as in local newspapers. The campaign will also utilize social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

People have busy lives and sometimes what they need before deciding to get vaccinated is to have a conversation with their health care provider, said Dr. Ryan Westergaard, Chief Medical Officer for the Bureau of Communicable Diseases. As with any new vaccine or treatment, it is understandable that people have questions. But as health care professionals, we need to be patient and continue to work, and ask and answer questions, and we will continue to make progress.

For help with finding or choosing a primary care provider, or locating a free or reduced cost medical clinic, visit the DHS Find a Health Care Facility or Care Provider page.

To find a vaccine location in your community visit Vaccines.gov, or call 211 or 877-947-2211. Select daycares are offering free childcare during your COVID-19 vaccine appointment and select CVS and Walgreen pharmacies are offering extended hours on Fridays. Learn about these resources at the DHS Find a Vaccine Appointment webpage.

Share why you chose to get the COVID-19 vaccine on social media. Help us spread the word by taking a picture of yourself (feel free to include friends) doing your part by getting vaccinated and post on your social media accounts using the hashtag #YouStoptheSpread. Be sure to include why you chose to get the COVID-19 vaccine. And dont forget to tag DHS for a chance to be featured on one of our social media pages!
Nokia Mobile India made a mysterious tweet a few days ago teasing a super sturdy smartphone. What caught people's attention is the text written on the phone case of the upcoming Nokia smartphone. It read "With our newest Nokia phone, you will never need a case again 27.07.21."

Upcoming Nokia smartphone specifications

In the teaser photo, the Nokia smartphone sports a quad-lens setup placed inside a rounded camera array, similar to a OnePlus 7T. The smartphone also features a ZEISS branding in the middle of four lenses, leading us to believe that the camera will be one of its main highlights. The rounded camera housing is a common feature in several upcoming Nokia smartphones like Nokia C20 Plus, C30 etc.

Since Nokia is urging you to forget about a case it seems logical that its rumoured phone will have a very sturdy design. However, the phone in the teased photo looks quite slim and unlike other sturdy smartphones on the market.

The teased Nokia smartphone also has an LED flash placed separately from the camera housing. In the photo, the handset looks quite big, probably around 6-inches tall and on one side it features the power button while the volume rockers seem to be on the other side. The upcoming Nokia smartphone also has a small case cutout below the volume rockers.

According to GSM Arena, the rumoured device could be the Nokia XR20 which popped up on Geekbench some time ago. The listing also revealed key specifications of the unknown smartphone. It features Android 11 as a pre-installed OS with 4GB RAM and a Snapdragon 450 5G SoC.

These technical specs make the rumoured Nokia phone seem like an entry-level device. Nokia has had a history of releasing affordable smartphones with great cameras. If the teaser photo is any indication, we could see a budget photography phone from Nokia very soon.
Tech giant Google is once again in the hot water in France and has been fined with $592.75 million. This is the third fine the company got charged with in the last three years. The basis for the latest fine is that the company failed to obey the instructions given by the news editors and publishers of the country.Google has been accused by some of the big names of news publishing companies including, SEPM , APIG and AFP. According to these news houses, Google was not able to settle on common terms as the company couldnt talk itself out under good faith. They failed to agree for the payment of online news content , this gives rise to the Neighboring rights that were formed by the European Union.This is not the first time that Google has been accused with such charges. Over the last three years, the company has been fined with almost $10 billion in Europe. However, the 5 day hearing session in September against antitrust in European Union could lead Google to charge them with a $5.15 billion . Some sources revealed that the date for this hearing to begin has been decided and will start from 27th September and will followed for 5 days.Google has been facing issues with the European Commission since back in 2018 after they said that Google is taking advantage of its position in Android devices in order to give competition to its rival companies.Last month a formal probe was also opened by the United Kingdoms Competition and Markets Authority(shortly known as CMA). This probe was opened in both Amazon and Google as result to the rising concerns that these platforms may not be able to filter news allowing fake news and reviews on their respective platforms. Moderators and regulators are not satisfied with the performance and are confused if both these companies are working hard enough to filter out the fake reviews or detect any pattern that may cause suspicion.The same month also brought Google in front of the Antitrust of European Union once again, and was questioned that whether the company takes any measure so it can priorities its business over the rival advertisers or even news publishers. An investigation was launched to find if Google tampers anything by minimizing the third party access to users personal data that is required for targeting advertisements on different platforms either it be a website or an application. According to the charges, Google would save this data to be used by itself instead of getting used by other advertisers.H/T: BB Read next: Sundar Pichai Reveals What It Takes To Be One Of The Top CEO In The Tech Industry
Archbishop Eamon Martin has asked for prayers for victims in response to the British governments decision to introduce an amnesty for Troubles-related incidents

He said:

"The British governments decision to ban all Troubles-related criminal and civil actions, and legacy inquests, will be seen by many victims as a betrayal of trust which denies justice to them and to their loved ones. It is disturbing that victims and survivors, those have paid the highest price for the fragile peace we all enjoy today, once more feel marginalised and neglected.

"I was particularly disappointed by Prime Minister Boris Johnsons naive comments in the House of Commons suggesting that his legacy proposals would allow Northern Ireland to draw a line under the Troubles. At this painful time I ask for prayers of comfort for victims suffering on all sides in the conflict, and for truth and justice to prevail in the interest of the common good.

"Dealing with the legacy of our shared past is not an easy task. It is a complex undertaking which belongs to all of us. It has no quick-fix. No line can be drawn to relieve the deep hurt still carried in the aftermath of years of violence, death and life-changing injury.

"The 2014 Stormont House Agreement, signed up to in good will by all parties, sought to deal with our legacy in a collaborative and honest way which respected fully the input of victims in achieving consensus. It is therefore deeply disheartening to witness a key signatory renege on this joint commitment.

"Sadly, this weeks announcement has been expected. In April 2020 the Catholic bishops in Northern Ireland published a considered statement criticising the UK governments approach towards the legacy of the past. Its content included correspondence to the Secretary of State, Mr Brandon Lewis, and it remains relevant.

"The bishops supported the ongoing pursuit of appropriate criminal, legal and civic justice for all victims.

They addressed prioritising victims as the focal point of a response to dealing with the legacy of the past; equal access to justice for all; facing the past however painful; achieving authentic reconciliation for a just and stable peace; and concern that the proposed legislation for Northern Ireland would mirror the provisions of the Overseas Operations (Service Personnel and Veterans) Act 2021 which does not honour human rights,

avoids the rule of law, does not offer justice to victims, nor provides for a modality to underpin long-term peace and stability in a transparent, fair and equitable context,

See: https://www. catholicbishops.ie/2020/04/08/ catholic-bishops-in-northern- ireland-criticise-uk- governments-approach-to- legacy-of-the-past/

As the British government is now facing criticism from all quarters concerning its unilateral decision, the announcement begs the age-old question: Cui Bono? (Who benefits?).
A fundraiser has been set to help little Ronan Lawless-Clarke who has autism get a canine companion.

Parents Marie and Sean, from Dundalk, have set up a GoFundMe page to help raise funds for their son Ronan's autism assistance dog with My Canine Companion.

They hope to raise enough money to support the training and development of a dog for Ronan specifically.

"With your help and support we hope to raise 10, 000 euro to support the training and development of a dog for Ronan specifically", they said on the fundraiser page.

"Any additional funds raised will also be donated to My Canine Companion helping them continue their life changing work for children and young adults living with autism in Ireland."

They have already raised 1,770 towards helping to get a canine companion that will be specifically suited to their son's needs.

My Canine Companion is an Irish national charity who provide accredited service dogs to people with disabilities, predominantly autism.

It also provides a range of therapy dog services and autism awareness programmes.

My Canine Companion (MCC) is committed to enriching the lives of people with difficulties particularly autism,through the placement of highly skilled Service Dogs and companion dogs providing safety, independence, and companionship.

Unfortunately MCC are not government funded and rely on fundraising events and the generosity of donations.

Annually MCC provides over 60% of Ireland's service/assistance dogs to children with autism. The balance is provided by Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 33% and Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland seven per cent.

MCC qualifies an average of 45 autism service dog partnerships per year and currently have 275 working dog partnerships in Ireland.

This number does not include companion dogs and therapy dogs working in schools, hospitals and nursing homes.

Anyone wishing to help get a canine companion for Ronan can log onto https://www.gofundme.com/f/ronns-canine-companion
The entrance stones and beds in Blackrock have received an upgrade.

Blackstone Motors has sponsored the recently upgrading of the entrance stones to Blackrock.

On the four approach roads the entrance beds have coastal planting as well as hard landscaping with name stones, marking the entrance of the beautiful village.

Completed fourteen years ago they have been in need of a freshening up and are looking very well at the moment.

The association of Blackstone Motors with Blackrock Tidy Towns goes back to 2018 when they sponsored an electric van, a Renault Kangoo, for the regular work of the committee.

This was the first association of its kind in the country and contributed to the success that Blackrock has achieved.

The upgrading is timely as the judging season is under way.

Blackrock will defend its title as Irelands Tidiest Small Town as well as winner of Louth Looking Good.

Donal Waters of Blackstone, which are dealers for Renault, Dacia and Opel, said: We are proud to be associated with this upgrade, as the closest car dealership to Blackrock we appreciate the support of the community."
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A local Dundalk musician has cut his hair in aid of the Rapunzel Foundation while raising over 28,000 for Barretstown.

Tadhg Mulligan, a traditional musician from Dundalk, has cut and donated his hair to the Rapunzel Foundation, all while undertaking a fundraising drive for Barretstown which has raised 28,000 for the charity group.

Speaking to the Democrat after he got his hair cut, Tadhg said that it was a great day when he got his hair cut and that he was proud of his fundraising efforts over the last month.

According to Tadhg, who got his hair cut at Profile Hair Design Mullingar, said that there was a big welcome when he arrived at the salon, with balloons to celebrate the occasion.

Tadhg says that he had planned to cut between 25 and 27 inches of hair off, but wasn't sure what the final length of his hair was when it was cut.

I didnt realise how fecking long it was, said Tadhg, laughing.

For Tadhg, the fundraising work has been magical, with him mentioning how the funds have poured into his Just Giving page.

If you had asked me last week, I was kinda like: 1,000, 2,000? Unbelievable. Its grown 28 times the original target, which is phenomenal, said Tadhg.

Its going to help so many families and patients that attend Barretstown. They rely completely on support... Its fantastic.

Its quite magical to see it all happening around you in real-time.

It makes me feel, ultimately, so so proud of my friends from Dundalk and from the traditional music scene, for my family for all the support. So many people got behind it.

Alongside raising the huge amount of funds for Barretstown, Tadhg is now set to volunteer with the organisation from late August.

I did an interview with them, and theyve accepted me now to volunteer in August, said Tadhg.

Ive done a training course with them since that as well and Im really looking forward to going down.

Tadhg thanked everyone who donated to the campaign and shared his message on social media over the past few weeks.

For Tadhg, he says that Barretstown is a particularly important cause for him, having spent time with the charity in their camps due to having leukaemia as a child.

Since he started the fundraising campaign, Tadhg has smashed every single fundraising goal, hitting 28 times his original goal of 1,000.

He has also carried out bucket collections in the Square in Dundalk, playing traditional music with songs like the Red Haired Boy or The Jolly Beggar Man.

On one occasion, he was joined by local folk legends The Mary Wallopers for an impromptu trad session in the centre of town.

Recently, he hosted a Breakfast Busk at Wuxi, where he works, to help drum up additional support for his charity drive.

According to Tadhg, there was massive support from those at the company, raising over 1,600 in donations across a few hours of busking.

The fundraising efforts are still ongoing, however, with anyone interested in donating able to visit www.justgiving.ie, and searching for Tadhg Mulligan.
A Dundalk TD called for further clarity on the reopening of third-level institutions, as colleges like Dundalk IT gear up to bring students back onto campuses.

Deputy Ruairi O Murchu, in a question session with Higher Education Minister Simon Harris, asked if the Minister could provide more clarity on the reopening of colleges and universities, alongside plans to ensure students get the college experience they deserve.

Minister Harris says that under current plans they will be treating college campuses as if they are villages or small towns.

What is safe to do in a town or village needs to be safe to do on a college campus, said Minister Harris.

The Minister also said that they are seeking to get large-scale lectures back, but that call will be made based on the public health situation in a few weeks time.

Currently, the government is planning for every adult to be vaccinated by the end of August, which Minister Harris says will provide additional safety to college students returning to education.

We need to try everything possible to get people's lives back on track, said Minister Harris.

DKIT Student Union President Christopher ONeill has welcomed commitments by Minister Harris to get students back on campuses this September, saying that he wants all students on campus to feel safe.

I would be happy enough for students who feel safe to return to campus do return to campus. At the end of the day its all about putting out students health before everything else, said Mr ONeill.

I think students are crying out to return to normality.

Mr ONeill says that as the pandemic appears to be receding, he hopes that students will see a return to normality and that they will be prioritized after a year of Zoom lectures.

I would hope that third-level students this time would be put first. It feels like weve been left behind in the last year, said Mr ONeill.

Its good to see Minister Harris come out and say students will be back on campus and thats what were all hoping for.

According to Minister Harris, he will be reporting to the cabinet on July 19th with an update on colleges, saying that it will provide further clarity to allow colleges to create individual timetables for returning students.

There are currently four colleges participating in an antigen test pilot: University College Dublin, Trinity College Dublin, NUI Galway and University College Cork.
There have been 50 cases of Covid-19 reported in Louth as of midnight July 13th.

This is according to the Department of Public Health North East, who have said that the current data is provisional and is subject to change.

COVID-19 new cases update in the North East region (as of midnight July 13, 2021):

Meath: 40

Louth: 50

Monaghan: 10

Cavan: <5



*This data is provisional and subject to change@HSELive @hpscireland pic.twitter.com/eR6fiQ3E92  Department of Public Health North East (@PublicHealth_NE) July 15, 2021

The National Public Health Emergency Team warned last night that there is a high incidence rate of Covid-19 across Louth, with areas like Ardee being among the highest in the country.

"We're also seeing high incidence in Louth, Dublin, Sligo, Limerick in particular," said Dr Ronan Glynn, Deputy Chief Medical Officer.

Currently, due to the HSE cyberattack that occurred in May, there is no information on the number of deaths due to Covid-19.

Across the country, there are 20 people in ICU with confirmed cases of Covid-19 as of yesterday. There are also 73 people in hospital receiving treatment.

As of July 13th, there are 2,728,205 people who have received a first dose of a Covid-19 vaccine. 2,123,816 people have received their second dose.

Currently, information on the number of people receiving vaccines in pharmacies is not available.

Local Covid-19 data has only been made available in recent days, due to the impact of the cyberattack.
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A conversation about female empowerment, the need for an inclusive recovery and transatlantic cooperation

How can we foster the economic empowerment of women after the coronavirus crisis? And what role does transatlantic cooperation play in shaping a more inclusive recovery?

Listen to ECB President Christine Lagarde, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and US Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen talk about this and more in the latest episode of the ECB Podcast, hosted by Katie Ranger.

The views expressed are those of the speakers and not necessarily those of the European Central Bank.

Published on 15 July 2021 and recorded on 12 July 2021.
ESB has unveiled its first eight-bay, high-power electric vehicle charging hub. Located at Junction 14, Mayfield, on the M7, Monasterevin, Co Kildare, the high-power charging hub is capable of providing 100km of charge in as little as six minutes.

The bay will contain three high-power chargers (350kW) and one fast charger (50kW) which can charge up to eight Electric Vehicles (EVs) at any one time.

The launch of the high-power EV charging hub is part of a 20m investment programme financed by the Governments Climate Action Fund and ESB, which will see the expansion and enhancement of the public EV charging network.

ESB aims to deliver 50 hubs as it continues to invest in the upgrade of its charging infrastructure. Under the Climate Action Fund project, ESB has already installed six high power hubs allowing three EVs to charge at one time, has replaced over 590 charge points, and upgraded 31 chargers to faster speeds.

Speaking at the launch of the high power hub, Marguerite Sayers, executive director, Customer Solutions at ESB, said: The electrification of transport is a key component of ESBs low carbon strategy for a brighter future.

The announcement of the first eight-vehicle high power EV charging hub is a significant milestone as we work to meet the growing number of EVs on Irelands roads.

This new 350kW high power charging hub, as part of our overall upgrade works, will significantly reduce charging time for EV users. When you couple this with at-home charging, it really signifies a positive next step for current and future EV drivers in Ireland.

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications and Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan TD, said: The availability of high-power charging infrastructure on key national routes is critical for EV drivers who need to travel longer distances. Through our Climate Action Fund, we will continue to invest and maintain a world-class national charging network that supports the countrys transition to EVs. This new hub, launched by ESB today, and the others that will follow, will encourage more drivers to go electric, cut their fuel costs and reduce our carbon emissions. Liam Fitzpatrick, Director of the Lidon Group who are responsible for managing Mayfield Services, said: We are delighted that Junction 14 Mayfield will be the first ESB service partner in Ireland to have an eight-bay high power electric charging hub.
Parents should not bring their children into indoor dining when new rules come into force allowing them to do, the countrys chief medical officer has advised.

Dr Tony Holohan said the responsible public health advice was that it was safer for unvaccinated children to avoid indoor activities such as dining.

Later this month, under 18s will be permitted to dine indoors at a cafe, pub or restaurant, provided they are accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult or one who has recovered from Covid-19.

Dr Holohan told a public health briefing on Wednesday: Even though certain things are possible, children wont be vaccinated, there is no plan at this point in time to vaccinate children.

For now, to parents of young children  its safer not to bring your children into indoor dining and other facilities, even though these kinds of things might be possible. I mean, that would be the responsible public health advice.

If you do need to go out or wish to go out with your children, dining outdoors is still possible.

He added: You dont have to go indoors. We know that Delta transmission among children can happen.

Path to infection

The chief medical officer issued a warning on Wednesday to all those waiting for Covid-19 vaccination in Ireland, urging them to remain vigilant after the highest number of daily new cases since February was reported.

For people who are not vaccinated, we can see a significant change in the path to infection, and weve been saying for some time that this infection represents a risk to them, Dr Holohan said.

You must be very cautious and at the very minimum try to differentiate for yourself between those activities that we would regard as high risk activities.

Things that are indoor, where theres poor ventilation, where theres crowding and things like that, to recognise those features.

Your vaccine is not far away

If youre not vaccinated you need to stay away from those.

He said people who are still waiting for their vaccines need to stay away from those kinds of environments and confine their activities to the outdoors, continue using masks and maintain social distancing.

However, he added that such measures could be dropped in the autumn.

Your vaccine is not far away. We think we need to keep this up for another period of time that will take us into probably September, when we get to levels of vaccination that will allow us to look again at the need for these kinds of arrangements to be maintained.

Additional reporting by Press Association.


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A Russian-language dark web marketplace called Hydra that is known to facilitate the illegal sale of narcotics has seen cryptocurrency transactions soar over the last five years from US$9.4 million in 2016 to $1.37 billion in 2020.

According to a report released Tuesday by Flashpoint and Chainalysis, Hydra's crypto business began accelerating in 2017 after its chief competitor, the Russian Anonymous Marketplace, known as RAMP, was shut down by Russian law enforcement authorities.

Also contributing to the escalation in transactions is the growing narcotics problem in Russia and the dearth of outlets for turning cryptocurrency into hard cash, explained Flashpoint team lead Vlad Cuiujuclu.

"Transferring crypto into fiat is not something widely available in Russia," he told the E-Commerce Times.

What's more, it's safer to perform cryptocurrency transactions in a marketplace like Hydra than in other mainstream exchanges.

"Services that change cryptocurrency into fiat currency are being increasingly pressured by governments to examine the transactions that go through them and to put in place safeguards to ensure the money can be tracked back to an actual person," noted Flashpoint Senior Analyst Andras Toth-Czifra.

"Services that offer cryptocurrency laundering are becoming more lucrative," he told the E-Commerce Times.

Better Business Model

Hydra's business model has proven to be popular with its clientele, the report noted. The marketplace acts as a host for sellers who can set up and run their narcotics shops on the site. Hydra makes its money by taking a cut of all transactions on the site.

The marketplace also provides valuable services to its customers. It provides greater anonymity that can be found elsewhere, as well as security and "professional quality" deliveries.

"They can help you convert cryptocurrency into fiat currency and will even deliver it to your doorstep," Cuiujuclu said.

Hydra has also established direct suppliers in China, enabling it to build a reputation as a marketplace known for its large quantities of cheap synthetic drugs.

"Sites like Hydra provide an established market and established threat actors with reasonable cover from the authorities, and so it is exploding," Garret Grajek, CEO of YouAttest, an identity auditing company in Irvine, Calif. told the E-Commerce Times.

Buried Treasure

The Flashpoint report noted that Hydra's operators run a tight ship. Since 2018, the marketplace has imposed strict limitations on sellers, requiring that their cryptocurrency funds be withdrawn into Russian fiat currency via select regionally-operated exchanges and payment services.

Despite those limitations, Hydra seller accounts remain in high demand, Flashpoint reported. In fact, a new submarket has emerged created by cybercriminals willing to pay people with established seller accounts to gain direct access to the marketplace to circumvent Hydra's withdrawal restrictions.

"It's surprising how some of these cybercriminals resort to archaic methods to avoid the security measures and identification requirements of cryptocurrency exchanges," Toth-Czifra said.

One such technique is called "Hidden Treasure," where a buyer hires a courier, called a "kladman," to bury cash underground in vacuum-sealed bags within specific agreed-upon locations for the sellers to dig up later.

Once the cash is secured in the hands of the seller, they complete the sale of the contraband by either burying it or shipping it out, as has been done historically.

The report added that as the Hidden Treasure workaround becomes more popular so, too, does the demand for kladmen, which has become a high-paying job. Recent employment ads offer the couriers $400 a day or $1,000 or more for a week's work.

Government Collusion?

One reason Hydra has been able to thrive is that its operations have been largely ignored by the Russian government.

"Taking out a big criminal operation always carries the risk of violence and chaos," Toth-Czifra explained. "One of founding myths of the present political system in Russia is that it saved the country from that kind of chaos in the 1990s so it's a priority of the Russian government not to do anything that would create a vacuum that would lead to a violent struggle for positions."

He added that it would not be surprising to find a link between government officials and organized crime in Russia. "Indeed, the longer Hydra continues its operations undisturbed, the more likely it is that there are such connections," he said.

Grajek maintained that from an outsider perspective, the Russian government's attitude seems far too lax. "We do not know what is going on behind the scenes," he continued, "but they do not appear to be very concerned about shutting down these sites the way the West shut down 'Silk Road.'"

"It appears there is little care about cybercrime generated within its borders, so long as the victims are from other countries," added Erich Kron, the security awareness advocate at KnowBe4, a security awareness training provider in Clearwater, Fla.

"For this reason, as an added bit of insurance against accidentally crossing the government, some strains of malware will not execute on computers that are using a Cyrillic keyboard layout," he told TechNewsWorld.

Allure of Cryptocurrency

Kron explained that cybercriminals use cryptocurrency because there's little chance of them getting caught when they use it.

"In the world of tangible currency, when making an illicit purchase, physical money must be exchanged in-person for the item being purchased," he said. "This type of transaction carries dangers unique to having to be physically present for the exchange, such as being robbed or being arrested by waiting for law enforcement."

"It carries the additional risk of having to transport the purchased illicit goods from the meeting place to wherever the final destination is," he added.

"Even online transactions using funds transfer services run a significant risk of having accounts frozen, funds seized and are often far less anonymous than cryptocurrency," he continued.

"In contrast, cryptocurrency allows payments to happen and transactions to be completed without ever meeting the other party," he said. "It tends to be somewhat anonymous and easy to launder through services, and allows sellers of illicit items to sell to people across the globe with very little risk and effort."

However, cryptocurrency is volatile. Could a crash wipe out the cash of cybercriminals?

"I believe it's here to stay," observed Katherine Kirkpatrick an attorney with the global law firm of King & Spalding.

"You're starting to look at serious institutional investors investing, or at least diversifying with it now," she told the E-Commerce Times.

"This is no longer a fringe investment," she continued. "This is no longer solely associated with criminals. A lot of legitimate businesses are using it."

John P. Mello Jr. has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2003. His areas of focus include cybersecurity, IT issues, privacy, e-commerce, social media, artificial intelligence, big data and consumer electronics. He has written and edited for numerous publications, including the Boston Business Journal, the Boston Phoenix, Megapixel.Net and Government Security News. Email John.




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Cancel culture and politics aside, one of the more brutal threats lurking in the shadows of the internet is the slander industry. All too often, unsuspecting people become victims of websites that promote slanderous, often unverified information about individuals. This false and vilifying information lives on the internet forever and can sully an otherwise spotless reputation.

Personal information that is readily available online can be used to blackmail, slander, or steal identities. How do these websites affect someone, and how can victims fight back? The only solution may be hiring a company specializing in scrubbing the digital trail of haplessly slandered victims.

"In the age of digital reputation being what matters most, online presence and digital breadcrumbs have become of the utmost importance," according to Laura Hoffner, chief of staff at Concentric Advisors, a security and risk management firm.

The intended impression the slander industry presents is that there is not much you can do about it when you fall within its target sites. But that is not true, she cautions. First, victims can utilize a service to identify what is out there already. Then, victims can make conscious decisions about what information to take down and what details to remain available.

"The key is, it can be your choice. You can maintain control of your digital footprint and, thus, your online identity," Hoffner told TechNewsWorld.

Hoffner's assessment that all is not lost if slandered by a website is not mere marketing hype. She spent 12 years as a naval intelligence officer supporting special operations around the globe. Lt. Commander Hoffner transitioned to the Naval Reserves and joined the Concentric team in the fall of 2020.

Growing Slander Network

As many victims can attest, an ecosystem of websites exists whose primary purpose is destroying reputations, confirmed Max Anderson, engagement officer for Concentric. But the endgame is more than trashing peoples' digital reputations.

Like the seemingly constant episodes of ransomware attacks, the slander purveyors are more about making money.

"The owners of these websites do not truly care about anyone's reputation. Their goal is to capitalize off of a victim's self-value and the offender's motivation," he told TechNewsWorld.

The security agencies that specialize in slander removal or reputation management services can be legitimate businesses, he admitted. But some so-called clean-up services are no better than the slander doers.

"There are legitimate service providers helping with reputation management issues for clients who have been targeted by people with nefarious motives," Anderson offered.

To combat this problem effectively, though, is time consuming and quite costly. Any service offering to remove a slanderous website posting your information for a few hundred dollars is likely the same company who posted your information in the first place, he suggested.

"If not run by the same people, the website owner and the information removal consultants are working closely together to share profits," said Anderson.

Online Reputation Has Serious Consequences

We live in a fully digital world today. A person's online profile is always analyzed by prospective employers, friends, family, and partners.

One negative post may be easy to explain away. But it becomes much more difficult to defend your reputation when a slanderous article about you has been picked up by multiple sites, noted Anderson.

"The damage is in the volume and less about the content," he said.

Often, people do not realize the amount of personal information accumulates on social media and online data banks. Peoples' family and business activities are frequently mixed together.

Bad doers can post smug remarks and make false statements with little fear of legal or public retribution. Family photos and participation in a variety of activities provide the slander operators a wealth of details to twist into seemingly accurate narratives.

It takes a strong commitment and resilience to intimidation to restore a slander victim's digital reputation. A more effective protection plan is to prevent slander before it happens. Do this by safeguarding the flow of information that you yourself plant online.

Monitoring and getting out in front of any negative reputational information early is key," Anderson advised.

Preparing for Battle

Slanderous articles tend to snowball rather quickly, noted Anderson. Concentric takes a proactive strategy for its clients to get ahead of potential attacks.

For instance, Concentric conducts regular monitoring of its clients on social media and the open web. The goal is to proactively spot and alert clients on these potentially problematic pieces.

"We also have a solution called Concentric360 that removes Personally Identifiable Information (PII) from almost 300 data brokerage sites. This makes it much more difficult for someone to dox (or doxx) you, or steal your identity. We can also identify and remove impostor social media accounts," he explained.

Of course, more strategies are needed to proactively protect people's personal information. For example, Concentric's intelligence teams monitor for online conversations about the company's clients. Its digital privacy teams look for and remove potentially compromising information.

"If you can find the information and take it down quickly, efforts are quite successful. The problem becomes more difficult to solve when the information has circulated across multiple websites which are then indexed by search engines," said Anderson.

Minimize Doxing Risk

The term Doxing has its roots in the phrase "dropping documents," and is a real problem that is not going away anytime soon

Doxing pertains to the collection of a person's private information across multiple platforms by an unauthorized individual. The "doxer" then publishes the information in an attempt to shame or embarrass the person or company.

The information is readily available by researching public databases, hacking, or social engineering. One of the best ways to protect yourself against a doxing attack, according to cybersecurity experts, is to control what you say online.

Sure, you have the freedom to express yourself. But you also have the choice to limit your exposure and stop giving potential attackers lots of information about you.

It is essential that you be careful about things you post online. Efforts to conceal your true identity behind a username on social media and other online forums are seldom foolproof. Be assured that hackers can peek behind that curtain of so-called anonymity and put you in the negative spotlight.

Don't Rely on Digital Security

The slander industry may well be considered a subset of fraud on the internet. Cybersecurity threats and many of the strategies for mitigating them are related.

One major problem with today's approach to cybersecurity risk is the security measures being implemented are no longer effective at protecting customers from fraud, according to Robert McKay, senior vice president for risk solutions at Neustar.

"Most fraud-fighting efforts rely on the idea that peoples' online and offline data is secure, and that is simply not true anymore," he told TechNewsWorld.

Virtually every organization that holds personally identifiable information has been hacked at some point, he said. That means that everyone's PII can be purchased by fraudsters on the dark web.

The easy availability of this data destroys the effectiveness of any type of authentication system that uses an individual's knowledge of personal information -- such as a social security number or email address -- to determine whether that individual is whom they claim to be.

Also, the same is true of the supposedly more obscure knowledge-based authentication (KBA) information typically used in challenge questions. It is not difficult for fraudsters to harvest that information from social media activity (all those online quizzes!) or by interacting with a target directly to obtain it via social engineering.

Perhaps a word to the wise is obvious here. Before it is too late, clean up your festering personal information from wherever you find it. Passwords and cyber software offer little to protect your PII online.

Jack M. Germain has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2003. His main areas of focus are enterprise IT, Linux and open-source technologies. He is an esteemed reviewer of Linux distros and other open-source software. In addition, Jack extensively covers business technology and privacy issues, as well as developments in e-commerce and consumer electronics. Email Jack.


City of Effingham officials and Stevens Industries President Todd Wegman present an ordinance to make an addition to the Effingham Enterprise Zone to members of the Effingham County Legislative and Personnel Committee Monday afternoon. Pictured, from left, are County Board member Heather Mumma, seated, City of Effingham Economic Development Director Todd Hull, Stevens Industries President Todd Wegman, City of Effingham Economic Development Specialist Sasha Althoff. Seated are County Board members John Perry, Rob Arnold and Joe Thoele.
Legislative Inspector General Carol Pope, left, and former LIGs Julie Porter and Tom Homer testify before the Joint Commission on Ethics and Lobbying Reform at the Capitol in Springfield in February 2020. Pope resigned from the office Wednesday, saying lawmakers have not done enough to reform the states ethics laws.
Michael G. Sutterfield, 71, of Effingham, IL, passed away on Monday, July 12, 2021 at HSHS St. Anthony's Memorial Hospital in Effingham. As per Michael's wishes, cremation rites will be accorded. Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham is assisting the family. Memorials may be made to Effingham Co
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, center, greets Gen. Scott Miller, the former top U.S. commander in Afghanistan, as Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Mark Milley, left, looks on, upon Miller's return, Wednesday, July 14, 2021, at Andrews Air Force Base, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, Pool)
Pinckney Bend looks next door to expand with purchase of visitors center
Hoard of coins declared treasure

The Isle of Mans rich Viking legacy has been further enhanced by the discovery of the Islands latest treasure hoard.

The latest hoard consists of 87 silver coins, 13 pieces of cut, silver arm-rings or hack silver and associated artefacts. It was discovered in April by metal detectorist Kath Giles whilst metal detecting on private land.

It marks the third major treasure inquest on the island in less than six months and is Kaths fourth significant discovery since taking up metal detecting only three years ago.

The coins are generally silver pennies, mostly minted in England, Dublin, Germany and the Isle of Man. They are all around 2cm in diameter and around 1 gram in weight. Most of the coins date from around the AD 990s through to the 1030s.

Allison Fox, Curator for Archaeology at Manx National Heritage said: This is a wonderful find which helps further our understanding of the surprisingly complex Viking Age economy in the Isle of Man and around the Irish Sea area.

The hoard will go on display in the new Viking Gallery at the Manx Museum, prior to travelling off island for review by the Treasure Valuation Committee, an independent Committee which meets at the British Museum, providing advice on antiquities.
Athens, AL (35611)

Today

Showers and thunderstorms. High 76F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%. 2 to 3 inches of rain expected. Locally heavy rainfall possible..

Tonight

Variably cloudy with scattered thunderstorms. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
When visually impaired music producer Jason Dasent decided to buy a collection of instrument plugins from Arturia about four years ago, he did so despite his suspicion that the companys tools wouldnt be accessible. He was right. At that point I couldnt browse and use the software, he said. I pretty much couldnt do anything. He had spent some $500 on Arturias V Collection 5, a set of virtual instruments that included recreations of some vintage synths he wanted to use. It was cheaper than spending hundreds of thousands on actual synths, he told himself.

But because Arturias preset manager Analog Lab wasnt built to accommodate the visually impaired at the time, Dasent had to drop even more cash. I would have to hire someone to come in for maybe three days to save these presets, he said. For between $500 and $1,000, this person would export the presets to a format that would work in Avids Pro Tools, which had the accessibility features Dasent needed. It was a tedious and expensive process, he said, but even after that he could only choose presets. He couldnt tweak cutoffs, envelopes, parameters or adjust the brightness. I had no choice but to just stick with the presets, he added.

In 2019, Dasent presented at the Audio Developers Conference (ADC) in London, where he was approached by Arturias then director of software development, Kevin Molcard. Moldcard wanted to make Analog Lab accessible, and asked for Dasents help. After the company set him up with the V Collection 7 and one of its Keylab controllers, Dasent started playing around. Eventually, Dasent was introduced to Arturia product manager Pierre Pfister, who wanted to learn more about what Analog Lab was missing.

Two months later, Dasent said, he got a call from Pfister. I have something to show you. What Pfister then shared with Dasent was an early version of a new accessibility toolset in Analog Lab V. Its as if my eyes are now open, Dasent gushed. That kicked off a months-long back-and-forth between Dasent, Pfister and the Arturia team as they worked on the prototype, culminating in the launch of a new update today. The company is announcing a new accessibility mode to Analog Lab V, which will enable all users to turn on auditory feedback and screen reading. It also brings various ergonomic improvements and bug fixes.

With this new accessibility mode, the company's Keylab controllers now communicate with the Analog Lab software and a computer's text-to-speech engine. "Basically, as I press a button on Keylab, or I turn a dial or change a value, it sends notifications out to the system voice, allowing me to know exactly what's on the keyboard," Dasent said in a video describing the update. Now, when he tweaks faders and encoders on the keyboard, "I can know exactly what the values are as I tweak the parameters." As he turns a knob on the controller to scroll through a list of instruments, a voice reads out the name of each item he lands on.

Since Dasent is familiar with Arturia's devices, he has the layout of buttons and dials memorized. But he added that "the layout of the keyboard is very well thought out, so it makes learning where everything is very easy."

The most challenging part of getting the software accessible for visually impaired users, according to Pfister, wasnt necessarily implementation or programming  it was figuring out how best to communicate with the systems text-to-speech. Since a lot of music software (and many creative products in general) arent designed with accessibility in mind, there arent many best practices to pull from. Arturia almost had to start from scratch. The hardest part was knowing what we should do and how we should make a product accessible, Pfister said.

Once they figured it out and showed Dasent the first prototype though, the results were gratifying. His reaction made everything worth it.

Arturia

Pfister and his team know theres more work that needs to be done. He acknowledged that Arturia is a small company and theres a lot of things we dont know. The plan for now is to continue listening to and soliciting feedback to identify what most of our users would like to be able to do. Whether that means getting all of the Analog Lab program fully accessible or to make all its individual instruments accessible, Pfister said the goal is to continue improving what its done with Analog Lab.

Like most of the tech industry, music software developers have, until now, largely overlooked the needs of people with disabilities. In a 2019 blog post for competing music company Native Instruments, UK technologist Chris Ankin said: Historically, music software offered poor accessibility with existing screen readers.

Even the leading digital audio workstation (DAW) Pro Tools struggled with keeping its software accessible through years of updates in the 2000s. At the time, in an effort to keep up with the latest versions of Apples desktop software, Avid offered newer plug-ins and features in its OS X version that those using older editions of Pro Tools did not get. The problem is, while the pre-existing Pro Tools HD (which launched in 2002) was almost entirely accessible, according to audio engineer Slau Hatlyn in an article on Avids website, the software for OS X wasnt usable even after Apple introduced its VoiceOver screen reader in 10.4 Tiger in 2005. The only thing Hatlyn could access was the menu bar. No other windows were readable.

It took until Pro Tools version 8s launch in 2008 for the software to regain accessibility, a long time considering the previous accessible version was 5.3, according to Hatlyn. Even so, the conversation continued, with Hatlyn calling out changes that broke accessibility between versions 10 and 11.

Arturia

And this is one of the industrys most widely used DAWs. While Apples Logic is lauded as accessible, other music software companies that build assistive technology into their products are a rarity. Brands like Ableton and Image Line dont appear to have comprehensive tools for the visually impaired in their products Ableton Live and FL Studios, at least based on the comments on their forums. A spokesperson for Ableton highlighted a Zoom Display feature, as well as recent updates to improve contrast, reduce automatic colors and adjust grid intensity as tools in Live for visually impaired users. The spokesperson added Were aware that there is much more to be done here. Image Line has yet to respond to our request for comment.

Will Butler, the vice president of company whose app, Be My Eyes, connects blind and low-vision people with sighted volunteers, wrote a LinkedIn post about the accessibility of music software. In it, Butler asked blind music producer Byron Harden to anecdotally rank the accessibility of popular music software. While Harden placed GarageBand, Pro Tools, Audacity and Logic in the top four, awarding them passing scores out of ten, Ableton Live and FL Studio came in near the bottom with one point each.

Butler also highlighted Native Instruments for its efforts. In 2019, the company expanded support for Macs VoiceOver, as well as Narrator and the Speech API in Windows. Prior to that, Native Instruments had made keyboards with touch-sensitive rotary encoders and buttons with auditory feedback. With those, its software can detect when the users fingers are resting on them, then give auditory feedback  synthesized speech  of the current value, and do so continuously as its adjusted.
A Delta pilot has sued the airline for $1 billion, accusing it of trade secrets theft over a communications app he developed a few years ago. According to Bloomberg, Captain Craig Alexander pitched the QrewLive app, which he reportedly developed with $100,000 of his own money, to the company as a way for crew to easily communicate in case of disrupted flights. However, Delta turned him down and then launched what he says is an identical tool a few years later.

Alexander apparently contacted Delta CEO Ed Bastian back in 2016 after a computer system meltdown put all flights on hold and cost the company over $150 million. He told the CEO that he had a solution for issues like that, which resulted in several meetings with executives who gave him verbal assurances that they were going to acquire his app.

According to Alexander's complaint, Delta ended up telling him that his technology didn't fit its needs and ultimately launched its own Flight Family Communications app in 2018. He called the official Delta app a "carbon copy, knock-off of the role-based text messaging component of [his] proprietary QrewLive communications platform." As for how he decided to seek $1 billion in damages, he said it's "based solely upon operational cost savings to Delta, [which] conservatively exceeds $1 billion."

The plaintiff has been with the airline for 11 years and still currently works with the company. Delta spokesperson Morgan Durrant told Bloomberg in a statement: "While we take the allegations specified in Mr. Alexander's complaint seriously, they are not an accurate or fair description of Delta's development of its internal crew messaging platform."
Enid, OK (73701)

Today

Except for a few afternoon clouds, mainly sunny. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 88F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

A mostly clear sky. Low 63F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph.
The services celebrating and honoring the life of Paul Ashby, of Enid, are pending under the direction of Brown-Cummings Funeral Home. Condolences and special memories may be shared online at www.Brown-Cummings.com.
Despite not representing the United States for the ongoing Tokyo Olympics 2021 following her cannabis issue, Sha'Carri Richarson has endless possibilities coming her way as a company reportedly reached out to her for a brand deal.

According to TMZ, Dr. Dabber, a company that specializes in vape and cannabis, offered a hefty amount of money to the track and field star for her to endorse their products.

Per the letter obtained by the outlet, Dr. Dabber was disappointed with Richardson's suspension from the US team.

They mentioned that they would love to offer her work as a spokesperson for the company.

"We would like to offer you $250,000 for this position." they wrote in the letter.

The position, which was also labeled as a "resident doctor," will let Richardson test their products beforehand.

The offer did not specify how long the partnership will be.

At the time of this writing, there is no further information on whether Sha'Carri Richardson has accepted the deal.

READ NOW: Ashley Monroe Diagnosed With Rare Type of Cancer, Details Dreadful Ordeal [REPORT]

Sha'Carri Richardson's Cannabis Issue

In early reports, the athlete turned heads after winning the 100-meter race in June at the US track and field trials wearing a vibrant hairstyle and long nails.

However, Richardson later tested positive for marijuana use, leading the US team to strip her win and barred her from playing in the Olympics.

The track and field star later explained her side on why she took the substance following her win.

Richardson spoke to "Today" and stated that she's taking responsibility for her actions.

"I know what I did. I know what I'm supposed to do, what I'm allowed not to do, and I still made that decision," she said.

As for why she took cannabis, she mentioned that a reporter came up and told her that her biological mother died before she ran in the trials.

More recently, Richardson said that she already accepted the decision and she's ready to move forward.

"I understand the situation that's going on. So, I'm accepting of it, and I just know what I have to do moving forward in my career," she said in an ambush interview.

Following her Olympics mishap, she received a lot of support from fans and celebrities online, including Cardi B.

READ ALSO: Goodbye Lamar Odom? Khloe Kardashian 'Not Interested' in Rekindling Romance With NBA Star
"Marrying Millions" reality star Bill Hutchinson denied all the accusations of sexually assaulting a female teenager. He pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to sexually assaulting a teen girl who was reportedly unconscious when the crime allegedly took place.

The star and real estate developer, 63 who is just presently free on $100,000 bail, is charged in Orange County, California, with one felony count of rape of an unconscious person. He is also facing five misdemeanor counts of sexual battery.

The alleged incidents involve not just one teen though, but two 16-year-old girls.

"It is not true," Dan Hagood, one of Hutchinson's many defense attorneys, tells People Magazine. "In the fullness of time people will see that Mr. Hutchinson is absolutely not guilty of sexually assaulting or sexually molesting anybody anywhere at any time," he explained.

The legal camp also believes that Hutchinson's personal record and friendships will be enough gauge of his character, which would make the accusations against him absurd.

ALSO READ: Meghan Markle Announces New Netflix Animation Series, Main Heroine Resembles Her

"Anybody who knows Bill Hutchinson for a day wouldn't believe these charges," Hagood explained. "He knows lots of people and they are all standing with him," he added.

However, the court does not merely work of character and personality references. Instead, facts and evidence would have to be deliberated on.

The Orange County accusations come from two different incidents that allegedly occurred at his own Laguna Beach vacation home. He reportedly assaulted one of the teen girls while she was unconscious and committed four total acts of sexual battery on her. He is also said to have committed one count of sexual battery on another teen girl the following month, in May.

Hutchinson is also charged with one count of sexual assault in Texas. The state has classed it as a second-degree felony.

Hagood said this Texas case is actually a boon to their case, because it would show something fishy going on behind these accusations.

Hagood explained that the alleged victim in the Texas case could very well be the same teen who accused his cleint of the Laguna Beach assault in April, making the accusations incredulous.

"I am confident the evidence will show it is the same person making the same allegations both times unconscious, two different states, two different months," Hagood revealed. "It is a fantastical story."

ALSO READ: Priyanka Chopra Acting Petty on Behalf of BFF Meghan Markle? Fans Noticed Weird, Rude Behavior!
Glenview, IL - The American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) and Thomas Jefferson University are launching a free online educational program titled "Shared Decision Making in Lung Cancer Screening" to assist healthcare workers with identifying eligible patients for lung cancer screening and helping patients make a well-informed decision about whether to be screened.

Targeted to health care workers, including primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, physician's associates, respiratory care workers and care coordinators, the program covers:

 Assessment of eligibility for lung cancer screening and tobacco treatment  Education about lung cancer screening and tobacco treatment  Support for decision making about lung cancer screening

Learners who complete all three modules will be able to identify individuals who are eligible for annual lung cancer screening, educate those who are eligible about the potential benefits and harms of screening, help them make a shared decision about screening and inform those who smoke or who have stopped smoking about available tobacco treatment services.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Each year, about 220,000 people are diagnosed with lung cancer and 150,000 people die from it. The primary cause of lung cancer is smoking, with more than 8 out of every 10 lung cancer cases in the United States resulting from smoking.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services covers screening for older adults 55-77 years of age who have a 30+ pack-year smoking history, currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years and require shared decision making. Recent guidelines from the United States Preventive Services Task Force encourage lung cancer screening with annual low-dose computed tomography for asymptomatic older adults aged 50-80 years who have a 20+ pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

"Randomized trials have shown that lung cancer screenings can significantly reduce mortality rates," says Ronald Myers, DSW, PhD, Professor and Director, Division of Population Science and Center for Health Decisions, Department of Medical Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University. "Unfortunately, few eligible individuals are provided the opportunity to make a shared decision about being screened for lung cancer and screening rates are very low. This course shows how to identify eligible patients, educate them about screening and help them make a screening decision."

A study presented by the American Society of Clinical Oncology shows that only 2% of an eligible 7 million individuals were screened for lung cancer in 2016. By standardizing the approach to shared decision making, this course aims to increase the number of lung cancer screenings for eligible individuals.

"Shared decision making is a truly powerful tool if implemented correctly," says Amy Morris, MD, FCCP. "By partnering together, CHEST and Thomas Jefferson University are able to increase the reach of an important program that will encourage regular screenings for those at highest risk for lung cancer and, if relevant, aid clinicians in guiding their patients along the path to quitting tobacco."

In addition to this course, CHEST also offers tobacco cessation resources for both clinicians and patients, including the clinician-facing Tobacco Toolkit that helps healthcare workers guide their patients through quitting tobacco. The toolkit and more resources can be found on the CHEST Foundation website.

Learners who complete all three modules of the course can earn 1.25 CME credit. To enroll, visit the CHEST website or the Thomas Jefferson University website.

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About the American College of Chest Physicians

The American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) is the global leader in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of chest diseases. Its mission is to champion advanced clinical practice, education, communication and research in chest medicine. It serves as an essential connection to clinical knowledge and resources for its 19,000+ members from around the world who provide patient care in pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine. For information about the American College of Chest Physicians, and its flagship journal CHEST, visit chestnet.org.

About Thomas Jefferson University

Thomas Jefferson University is composed of three colleges -- Jefferson Medical College, Jefferson College of Graduate Studies and Jefferson College of Health Professions. The three colleges enroll more than 2,600 future physicians, scientists and health care professionals. Founded in 1824, Jefferson Medical College is one of the largest private medical schools in the nation, with among the largest living alumni group. Thomas Jefferson University partners with Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, its education and clinical care affiliate. The University is home to the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center.
DALLAS, July 15, 2021 -- Statement Highlights:

The new scientific statement, "Primary Care of Adult Patients After Stroke," acknowledges the importance of primary care in the system of care for patients with stroke, summarizing the available literature and providing a roadmap for holistic, goal-directed and patient-centered care.

The statement is published today in Stroke, a journal of the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association.

Primary care professionals provide essential comprehensive and consistent care to patients after a stroke. Most people will seek guidance from their primary care team to reduce their high risk for recurrent stroke, prevent complications and optimize overall well-being. It outlines the need for comprehensive post-stroke management that includes engaging caregivers and family members to support the patient.

Stroke is a complex disease with many causes, consequences and treatments. According to the statement, approximately 800,000 U.S. adults will have a new stroke each year, and 10% will die within 30 days. At the time of their stroke, approximately 5% of patients younger than 55 years of age and 40% over 85 years have moderate disability. By 90 days after a stroke, new stroke-related disability of at least moderate severity develops in 10% of younger adults to 30% of adults over age 65 years. There are about 7 million adults in the U.S. living with stroke.

The first primary care appointment after a stroke should occur soon after discharge from the acute care or rehabilitation hospital, generally within 1-3 weeks. The current average interval to first medical visit for patients discharged home after stroke is 27 days. An earlier post-stroke visit may reduce hospital readmission and address inadvertent gaps in care that may exacerbate the high risk for stroke recurrence that marks the first three months after hospital discharge.

Screening at the first and all subsequent appointments should include assessing new or chronic risks for recurrent stroke such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, atrial fibrillation and blockage in the carotid or other arteries.

Additional screening is also important for complications including anxiety or depression, cognitive impairment, bone fracture and fall risk, osteoporosis, pressure ulcers and post-stroke seizures.

Specialist referrals should be recommended for any of these complications as appropriate.

"In this statement, we affirm in a new way the role of the primary care professional in caring for people with stroke. The core functions of primary care as a specialty include: 1) diagnosis and management of acute symptoms, 2) chronic disease management and 3) disease prevention," said Walter N. Kernan, M.D., chair of the statement writing group and a professor of medicine at Yale University School of Medicine, in New Haven, Conn. "Primary care professionals can ensure consistent and comprehensive care for the full needs of patients, including coordinating any additional care or services patients may need from community services providers or from subspecialty health care providers."

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Additional Resources:

Multimedia is available on the right column of the media alert link https:/ / newsroom. heart. org/ news/ comprehensive-primary-care-is-vital-to-holistic-care-and-optimal-recovery-after-a-stroke?preview= dbc19d0d0bf8b7b4c7ddde45d7ccfd7b About the American Stroke Association

The American Stroke Association is a relentless force for a world with fewer strokes and longer, healthier lives. We team with millions of volunteers and donors to ensure equitable health and stroke care in all communities. We work to prevent, treat and beat stroke by funding innovative research, fighting for the public's health, and providing lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based association was created in 1998 as a division of the American Heart Association. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-888-4STROKE or visit stroke.org. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
They must be prioritised and protected, say researchers

People with learning disabilities with covid-19 are five times more likely to be admitted to hospital and eight times more likely to die compared with the general population of England, finds a study published by The BMJ today.

Risks were particularly high for those with severe to profound learning disability, Down's syndrome and cerebral palsy.

The researchers say prompt access to covid-19 testing and healthcare is warranted for this group, and prioritisation for covid-19 vaccination and other targeted preventive measures should be considered.

Emerging evidence has shown that people with learning disability are at higher risk from covid-19 related death compared with the general population. But results from existing studies on other covid-19 outcomes are often complicated by factors such as deprivation and underlying conditions (comorbidities).

A lack of clarity also exists on the increased risk of covid-19 deaths among people with milder learning disability.

To explore this further, a team of UK researchers set out to describe the risk of covid-19 related hospital admissions and deaths among children and adults with learning disability in England compared with the general population.

Their results are based on electronic health records for more than 17 million people registered with a general practice in England linked to hospital admission and mortality data.

Data for 14,312,023 adults and 2,627,018 children were analysed across both waves of the covid-19 pandemic: wave 1 (registered with a general practice as of 1 March 2020 and followed until 31 August 2020); and wave 2 (registered 1 September 2020 and followed until 8 February 2021).

Among 90,307 adults on the learning disability register, 538 (0.6%) had a covid-19 related hospital admission; there were 222 (0.25%) covid-19 related deaths and 602 (0.7%) non-covid deaths.

Among adults not on the register, 29,781 (0.2%) had a covid-19 related hospital admission; there were 13,737 (0.1%) covid-19 related deaths and 69,837 (0.5%) non-covid deaths.

After taking account of potentially influential factors, such as age, sex, ethnicity, and geographical location, adults on the learning disability register had a 5-fold higher risk of covid-19 related hospital admission and an 8-fold higher risk of covid-19 related death than adults not on the register.

Rates were higher among those with severe to profound learning disability than those with milder learning disability, and among those in residential care.

Similar patterns were seen for children, but the authors stress that absolute risks of covid-19 hospital admission and death among children were small.

These are observational findings and the authors point to some limitations, such as focusing only on severe covid-19 outcomes and being unable to identify everyone with a learning disability from medical records alone. Nevertheless, results were similar after further analyses, and are consistent with the existing literature, suggesting that they are robust.

The findings also highlight gaps in learning disability registers, limiting the reach of the vaccination programme, prompting a call for greater efforts to update and maintain accurate registers so that all eligible individuals can benefit.

Besides vaccination, efforts should continue to protect people with learning disability from covid-19 adverse outcomes, and more research on the excess covid-19 risks among people with Down's syndrome and cerebral palsy are needed, they conclude.

This study makes an important contribution to the evidence on how the pandemic has affected this vulnerable group, say researchers in a linked editorial.

Ken Courtenay at the Royal College of Psychiatrists and Vivien Cooper at the Challenging Behaviour Foundation, point to "a hidden calamity" taking place among people with learning disabilities, and say "reasonable adjustments should be made to ensure that information about the pandemic and risk of infection are accessible, and that practical support is provided to protect people and manage risks."

What's more, they say worrying attitudes and prejudices about the value of the lives of people with learning disabilities have surfaced during the pandemic, while the covid-19 vaccination programme also disadvantaged people with learning disabilities, prioritising people according to age rather than severity of comorbid disorders.

"Before the next pandemic, investment in research is essential, to help us understand the risks faced by people with learning disabilities and how best to protect them from the high risks of hospital admission and death from covid-19," they write. "People with learning disabilities have the same rights as everyone else, including the right to good health and to be safe from harm."

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Externally peer reviewed? Yes (research); No (linked editorial)

Evidence type: Observational; Opinion

Subjects: People with learning disability
Social networks among animals are critical to various aspects of their lives, including reproductive success and survival, and could even teach us more about human relationships.

Dr. Amiyaal Ilany, a biologist at the Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences at Bar-Ilan University in Israel, integrates behavioral ecology, network science, and social science, to study broad aspects of social behavior in the wild. As a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Pennsylvania, he developed, together with Dr. Erol Akcay, a theoretical model suggesting that social inheritance - in which offspring inherit their social bonds from their parents, either passively or by copying them - could explain the social networks of multiple species.

In a study published today in the journal Science, the researchers show, for the first time on such a large scale, that their model correctly hypothesized that a process of social inheritance determines how offspring relationships are formed and maintained. Their study also elucidates the major role that social rank plays in structuring the spotted hyena clan, and how this affects survival.

To test their model Ilany and Akcay forged a partnership with Dr. Kay Holekamp, of Michigan State University. Holekamp had spent the previous 27 years observing wild spotted hyenas in Kenya. The researchers pored over Holekamp's data, which included nearly 74,000 social interactions among the spotted creatures.

"Social affiliations are, indeed, inherited within clusters of hyenas. The plethora of data on spotted hyenas that was collected by Kay Holecamp provided us with a golden opportunity to test the model we developed several years ago," says Dr. Ilany, the lead author of the study. "We found overwhelming evidence that social connections of offspring are similar to those of the mother. A mother who has social affiliations with another hyena can connect her offspring to that hyena and the two, in turn, will form a social bond. Even after the mother-offspring bond itself weakens dramatically, the offspring still remain connected to their mother's friends."

Spotted hyenas live in clans, the size of which depends on the abundance of prey and may vary from only a few individuals to more than a hundred. Life in the clan can be difficult for lower-ranked individuals. They may be excluded and may not get access to food.

"Rank is super important," says Dr. Akcay, who co-authored the study. "Spotted hyena live in a matriarchal society. Those born to a lower-ranked mother are less likely to survive and to reproduce." Descendants of high-class individuals face fewer constraints than descendants of lower-class individuals in choosing their social partners. The researchers found that offspring born to high-ranked mothers copied their mother's bonds more accurately than those born to low-ranked mothers.

Social inheritance plays an important role in survival, and the researchers discovered an association between the two in both mothers and female offspring. There was a positive relationship between offspring survival and social associations that were similar to their mothers, but only in offspring of high-ranked mothers. Mothers of offspring who were more similar to them in social association were more likely to survive to the following year, possibly reflecting a change in maternal relationships as they get older.

The results of this study suggest that social inheritance plays an important role in building the social networks of hyenas and further supports Ilany's and Akcay's hypothesis that in species with stable social groups, the inheritance of social connections from parents is the cornerstone of social structure. In several species successful social integration is associated with higher survival and reproductive success. The results add to this by showing that social inheritance is also associated with both offspring and mother survival.

The researchers note that social network inheritance likely contributes to a group's stability, and also has implications for how behaviors are learned and spread through groups. The study also underscores how factors other than genetics hold sway in key evolutionary outcomes, including reproductive success and overall survival. "A lot of things that are considered by default to be genetically determined may depend on environmental and social processes," concludes Ilany.

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Mathematics educators, mathematicians, teachers, and students come together to discuss the values that are espoused and developed through mathematics education today in different cultures

If you ask an adult what their least favorite subject at school was, they are likely to say mathematics. This response has less to do with mathematics per se than it is about how well it was taught or whether students were supported in their endeavor to learn numbers, master algebra, understand trigonometry, and handle data. To grasp the values of mathematics and how the discipline is viewed by society, we need to see it as a cultural phenomenon first.

It is commonly known that mathematics is the foundation of technology, be it primitive tools or the supercomputers in the 21st century. In turn, this technology shapes our modes of social connection. Thus, learning mathematics is inseparable from the connection with the external environment, and teaching mathematics is also inseparable from the interaction between people. Seen this way, it is hard not to categorize mathematics as a cultural product. Philosophers, educators, and mathematicians who have written about the discipline's cultural contours have noted how intrinsically enmeshed it is with other fields such as anthropology, sociology, education, philosophy, and psychology.

"While people may readily understand the significance of anthropology to our lives and histories, it is often felt that the objective and the scientific nature of mathematics masks its value relevance," says Dr. Qiaoping Zhang from the Education University of Hong Kong. "Because research on values in mathematics education is limited and considered unimportant."

To correct this notion and explore the values that are considered important in teaching and learning mathematics according to various cultures, ECNU Review of Education is putting out a Special Issue this month with Dr. Qiaoping Zhang and Dr. Wee Tiong Seah as its guest editors. Teachers and students in Australia, Pasifika learners in New Zealand, and primary and secondary students in Korea and the Chinese mainland are just some of the participants who will be sharing their stories and ideas about the values they hold dear in mathematics education. This special issue of the journal is being launched as a tribute to the 14th International Congress on Mathematical Education, which is being held from July 14 to 18 in Shanghai, China.

Among the plethora of articles and commentaries in the Special Issue, some of the highlights include:

Wee Tiong Seah (University of Melbourne), Qiaoping Zhang, and Alan J. Bishop (Monash University) discussing the role that individuals such as teachers and parents play in affecting the development of students' values in mathematics education through their views, decisions, and behavior, and emphasizing the importance of bringing humanity back into mathematics education;

Yuksel Dede (Gazi University), Veysel Akcakn (Usak University), and Gurcan Kaya (Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University) exploring the intersection of mathematical values, educational values, and the educational values involved in mathematical modeling tasks in Brazil, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America;

Jodie Hunter from Massey University examining the understanding of mathematics educational values and the reasons for rating values at different levels of importance, according to Pasifika students in New Zealand; and

Hengjun Tang (Zhejiang Normal University), Wee Tiong Seah, Qiaoping Zhang and Weizhong Zhang (Zhejiang Normal University) using the 'What I Find Important' [WIFI] questionnaire to investigate Chinese mainland students' value structures in mathematics learning across primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary levels.

It must be noted that the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 has given greater weight to these discussions. "Prior to the scramble of teachers and students joining online lectures and tutorials last year, it was felt that information and communication technology would have a fundamental influence on mathematics education and could reduce the differences between cultural traditions", Dr. Seah says. "However, after a year of learning online, might digital learning technology have widened the learning opportunity gaps within and amongst cultural traditions instead?"

Examining whether and how teachers and students have changed their values in mathematics learning as a result of online teaching, and how these values are maintained and sustained alongside the wellbeing of everybody involved, remain as the open-ended questions whose answers are of critical importance as we move forward in a world which is (still) suffering from a pandemic.

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Reference

Authors: Qiaoping Zhang, Wee Tiong Seah

Title of original paper: Thematic Issue on Values and Valuing in Mathematics Education: Revisiting Mathematics Education from Cultural Perspectives

Journal: ECNU Review of Education

DOI: https:/ / doi. org/ 10. 1177/ 20965311211011628

Affiliations: The Education University of Hong Kong, The University of Melbourne

About ECNU Review of Education

The ECNU Review of Education (ROE) is an international peer review and platinum open access scholarly journal initiated by the East China Normal University (ECNU) in Shanghai, China. It is a peer-reviewed journal that aims to publish impactful research and innovative articles related to current educational issues in China and abroad. The journal encourages articles that use interdisciplinary perspectives and embrace contextual sensitivity. It seeks to build a global community of scholars interested in advancing knowledge, generating big ideas, inducing deep changes, and bringing about a real impact in education.

About Dr. Qiaoping Zhang

Dr. Qiaoping Zhang is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Mathematics and Information Technology at the Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK). Prior to joining EdUHK he worked in Hubei University, East China Normal University, and the Chinese University of Hong Kong. He received his PhD from the Chinese University of Hong Kong in 2010. His research interests are mainly on affects in mathematics education, mathematics teacher education, students' mathematical problem solving, and cross-cultural comparison in mathematics education.

About Dr. Wee Tiong Seah

Dr. Wee Tiong Seah is Professor in Mathematics Education at the Melbourne Graduate School of Education at The University of Melbourne, Australia. He is best known for utilizing conative and motivational variables such as values to support research and development projects in mathematics education, which often focus on cognitive and affective variables only. One of the applications of this field of knowledge and expertise is in the fostering of positive or enabling mathematical wellbeing, which address issues such as mathematics anxiety and disengagement.
TUCSON, Ariz., July 15, 2021 -- To advance anti-tuberculosis (TB) science and enable the progression of new, safe, and affordable treatment solutions for TB patients worldwide, a new consortium of 30 partners from 13 countries has officially launched. The 7-year, 185 million project called UNITE4TB, aims to accelerate and improve the clinical evaluation of combinations of existing and novel drugs, with the goal of developing new and highly active TB treatment regimens for drug-resistant and -sensitive TB.

UNITE4TB is the newest project of the IMI AMR Accelerator, a public-private collaboration with the shared goal of progressing the development of new medicines to treat or prevent resistant bacterial infections.

"Tuberculosis is a major threat to public health worldwide. By bringing together leading experts from the public and private sectors in Europe and beyond, UNITE4TB is well placed to deliver results that will accelerate the development of better treatment regimens to tackle this disease," says Dr. Pierre Meulien, Executive Director of IMI.

Worldwide, TB is one of the top 10 causes of death and the leading cause from a single infectious agent (above HIV/AIDS). The growing emergence of multidrug-resistant TB is well-recognised as a public health challenge and has sparked new interest and investment in anti-TB drug development. Despite increased activity in the field, an integrated approach to TB drug development is still limited.

With European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA) and Associated Partners on board, UNITE4TB has access to the majority of the most innovative TB compounds, currently in late pre-clinical, clinical phase 1, and early phase 2 stage. The consortium will deliver an efficient, global clinical trials network equipped to conduct phase 2 trials. State-of-the-art adaptive trial designs will be implemented, and advanced modelling, artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques will be employed. All of this will allow for the selection and testing of novel combination regimens with a high probability of success in subsequent phase 3 clinical trials.

Anja Karliczek, Germany's Federal Minister of Education and Research, says: "Europe's UNITE4TB project creates an important new platform for research to combat tuberculosis. Science and industry will jointly test their clinical candidates and share research results. The objective is to develop effective combinations for new, urgently needed solutions to treat tuberculosis. This public-private partnership will set a new standard in the fight against global diseases such as TB. UNITE4TB is a remarkable example of international research collaboration. I am delighted that Germany is supporting the consortium with funding of around 25 million euros to the two German partners. I am confident that UNITE4TB will contribute towards achieving the goal of ending tuberculosis by 2030 that was adopted by the G20 Heads of State and Government at the UN General Assembly."

Critical Path Institute, Ltd. (Ireland) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Critical Path Institute, an independent, nonprofit established as a public-private partnership. C-Path, Ltd. will lead the data sharing workgroup for UNITE4TB and will be assisting with machine learning and artificial intelligence efforts. C-Path's mission is to catalyze the development of new approaches that advance medical innovation and regulatory science, accelerating the path to a healthier world. C-Path, Ltd. EU is in Dublin, Ireland, and C-Path U.S. is in Tucson, Arizona. Learn more at c-path.eu and c-path.org.

UNITE4TB is the largest public-private collaboration on clinical TB drug development in the history of the EU. It will set a new standard for anti-TB regimen development, enhancing the efficiency with which new treatments are delivered to TB patients across the world.

This project has received funding from the Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking (JU) under grant agreement No 101007873. The JU receives support from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme and EFPIA, Deutsches Zentrum fur Infektionsforschung e. V. (DZIF), and Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Munchen (LMU). EFPIA/AP contribute to 50% of funding, whereas the contribution of DZIF and the LMU University Hospital Munich has been granted by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research.

UNITE4TB is a public-private partnership with representation from academic institutions, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), public organisations, and pharmaceutical companies. Over the next 7 years, the consortium will be active in approximately 40 trial sites on four continents (Europe, Asia, Africa and South America), with the goal of delivering novel phase 2 clinical trials that will accelerate the development of new TB drugs and regimens. Achieving this goal will facilitate fulfilment of one of the main unmet needs in the TB field: better-tolerated drug regimens of shorter duration that can be deployed to tackle tuberculosis across various drug-resistance patterns and co-morbidities. For more information, visit the Consortium website: http://www. unite4TB. org

Consortium partners

Academic/SME partners

Stichting Radboud Universitair Medisch Centrum (Radboudumc) (The Netherlands)

London School for Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) (United Kingdom)

University of Oxford (United Kingdom)

Forschungszentrum Borstel, Leibniz Lungenzentrum (Germany)

Lygature (The Netherlands)

Lancaster University (United Kingdom)

University College London (United Kingdom)

TASK (South Africa)

Vita-Salute San Raffaele University (UniSR) (Italy)

Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen (Germany)

KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation (KNCV) (The Netherlands)

Critical Path Institute, Limited (Ireland)

European Lung Foundation (United Kingdom)

Instituto de Saude Publica da Universidade do Porto (ISPUP) (Portugal)

University of Liverpool (United Kingdom)

Institut de Recherche Pour le Developpement (France)

University of Hamburg (Germany)

University of California San Francisco (UCSF) (USA)

TB Alliance (USA)

FIND (Switzerland)

University of Milano (UMIL) (Italy)

University St Andrews (United Kingdom)

Uppsala University (Sweden)

European Respiratory Society (Switzerland)

TBnet (Germany)

EFPIA/Associated Partners

GlaxoSmithKline Investigacion y Desarrollo S L (GSK) (Spain)

Janssen Pharmaceutical (Belgium)

Otsuka Novel Products GmbH (Germany)

Deutsches Zentrum fur Infektionsforschung (Germany)

LMU University Hospital Munich (Germany)

View a detailed overview of all partner information on the UNITE4TB website

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Menlo Park, Calif. -- Electronic circuits that compute and store information contain millions of tiny switches that control the flow of electric current. A deeper understanding of how these tiny switches work could help researchers push the frontiers of modern computing.

Now scientists have made the first snapshots of atoms moving inside one of those switches as it turns on and off. Among other things, they discovered a short-lived state within the switch that might someday be exploited for faster and more energy-efficient computing devices.

The research team from the Department of Energy's SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Stanford University, Hewlett Packard Labs, Penn State University and Purdue University described their work in a paper published in Science today.

"This research is a breakthrough in ultrafast technology and science," says SLAC scientist and collaborator Xijie Wang. "It marks the first time that researchers used ultrafast electron diffraction, which can detect tiny atomic movements in a material by scattering a powerful beam of electrons off a sample, to observe an electronic device as it operates."

Capturing the cycle

For this experiment, the team custom-designed miniature electronic switches made of vanadium dioxide, a prototypical quantum material whose ability to change back and forth between insulating and electrically conducting states near room temperature could be harnessed as a switch for future computing. The material also has applications in brain-inspired computing because of its ability to create electronic pulses that mimic the neural impulses fired in the human brain.

The researchers used electrical pulses to toggle these switches back and forth between the insulating and conducting states while taking snapshots that showed subtle changes in the arrangement of their atoms over billionths of a second. Those snapshots, taken with SLAC's ultrafast electron diffraction camera, MeV-UED, were strung together to create a molecular movie of the atomic motions.

"This ultrafast camera can actually look inside a material and take snapshots of how its atoms move in response to a sharp pulse of electrical excitation," said collaborator Aaron Lindenberg, an investigator with the Stanford Institute for Materials and Energy Sciences (SIMES) at SLAC and a professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Stanford University. "At the same time, it also measures how the electronic properties of that material change over time."

With this camera, the team discovered a new, intermediate state within the material. It is created when the material responds to an electric pulse by switching from the insulating to the conducting state.

"The insulating and conducting states have slightly different atomic arrangements, and it usually takes energy to go from one to the other," said SLAC scientist and collaborator Xiaozhe Shen. "But when the transition takes place through this intermediate state, the switch can take place without any changes to the atomic arrangement."

Opening a window on atomic motion

Although the intermediate state exists for only a few millionths of a second, it is stabilized by defects in the material.

To follow up on this research, the team is investigating how to engineer these defects in materials to make this new state more stable and longer lasting. This will allow them to make devices in which electronic switching can occur without any atomic motion, which would operate faster and require less energy.

"The results demonstrate the robustness of the electrical switching over millions of cycles and identify possible limits to the switching speeds of such devices," said collaborator Shriram Ramanathan, a professor at Purdue. "The research provides invaluable data on microscopic phenomena that occur during device operations, which is crucial for designing circuit models in the future."

The research also offers a new way of synthesizing materials that do not exist under natural conditions, allowing scientists to observe them on ultrafast timescales and then potentially tune their properties.

"This method gives us a new way of watching devices as they function, opening a window to look at how the atoms move," said lead author and SIMES researcher Aditya Sood. "It is exciting to bring together ideas from the traditionally distinct fields of electrical engineering and ultrafast science. Our approach will enable the creation of next-generation electronic devices that can meet the world's growing needs for data-intensive, intelligent computing."

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MeV-UED is an instrument of the LCLS user facility, operated by SLAC on behalf of the DOE Office of Science, who funded this research.

SLAC is a vibrant multiprogram laboratory that explores how the universe works at the biggest, smallest and fastest scales and invents powerful tools used by scientists around the globe. With research spanning particle physics, astrophysics and cosmology, materials, chemistry, bio- and energy sciences and scientific computing, we help solve real-world problems and advance the interests of the nation.

SLAC is operated by Stanford University for the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science. The Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time.
Advanced capabilities ranging from the innovative use of artificial intelligence (AI) to state-of-the-art computer codes have won the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) its third straight round of DOE-sponsored public-private partnerships to help accelerate the production on Earth of the fusion energy that powers the sun and stars.

The PPPL collaborations account for three of the nine new DOE Innovation Network for Fusion Energy (INFUSE) partnerships and will bring together PPPL researchers with colleagues separately at Microsoft Corp., Commonwealth Fusion Systems, and TAE Technologies. The selected proposals are subject to the successful negotiation of Cooperative Research and Development Agreements (CRADA) between the companies and the DOE national laboratories.

Significant benefit

James Van Dam, DOE Associate Director for Fusion Energy Sciences, hailed the $2.1 million round of funding and noted that new private start-ups are entering collaboration agreements. "After two successful years of INFUSE, it is clear that the program offers significant benefit to the fusion community." The new round of funding, the first of 2021, responds to the growing interest and needs of companies "looking to leverage the unique expertise and capabilities available at the DOE national laboratory system," he said. To read the DOE news release click here.

PPPL physicist Ahmed Diallo, deputy director of the INFUSE program, echoed that assessment. "The three projects with PPPL make use of key expertise of the Lab," Diallo said. "These projects are testament to the fact that private industries recognize and value the expertise brought by the national labs."

Fusion, the power that drives the sun and stars, combines light elements in the form of plasma -- the hot, charged state of matter composed of free electrons and atomic nuclei that makes up 99 percent of the visible universe -- to generate massive amounts of energy. Scientists around the world are seeking to produce and control fusion on Earth for a virtually inexhaustible supply of safe and clean power to generate electricity.

Following are the companies partnering with PPPL in the new round of collaborations to accelerate the development of fusion energy.

Microsoft Corp. The software giant aims to exploit the artificial intelligence (AI) deep-learning prowess developed by a team led by PPPL and Princeton University physicist Bill Tang for predicting and controlling the disruption of magnetically confined fusion plasmas that can severely damage doughnut-shaped tokamak fusion facilities. Microsoft will bring its transformative neural network technology to PPPL to collaborate with the Laboratory on improving the prediction of dangerous disruptions and accelerating progress on the real-time control of fusion plasmas in tokamaks that include ITER, the international fusion experiment under construction in France.

Representing Microsoft in this partnership is Alexey Svyatkovskiy, a senior data scientist who while at Princeton worked with the Tang team to deliver the seminal deep-learning predictive software the group developed. Nature magazine profiled this Fusion Recurrent Neural Network (FRNN) software in 2019. "Alexey's in-depth knowledge of Microsoft's deep-learning capabilities enables an ideal collaborative fit with us for this exciting new INFUSE project," Tang said.

Tang recently received another high-profile award when the Advanced Scientific Computing Research (ASCR) program in the DOE Office of Science allocated his team 45,000 node-hours on the Theta supercomputer at the Argonne National Laboratory Leadership Computing Facility (ALCF) to advance the deep-learning software. The valuable computer time, awarded among highly competitive proposals, will be important for the mission of the DOE fusion energy program and will further strengthen the connection between the ASCR program and DOE leadership computing facilities.

Commonwealth Fusion System (CFS). This start-up, spun out from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), is developing a compact tokamak facility called SPARC that features novel new high-temperature superconductors. The partnership, which follows two previous INFUSE collaborations with the Laboratory, will work with PPPL physicist Nate Ferraro on the development of a massive gas injection (MGI) system to mitigate plasma disruptions.

"MGI is a process in which a large quantity of cold gas is injected into the tokamak when a disruption is detected," said Ferraro, a developer of PPPL's M3D-C1 computer code that will simulate such injections in SPARC. "The goal of this project is to help develop the optimal number and placement of gas injection valves to reduce heat and mechanical stresses on the facility during these instabilities," Ferraro said.

The collaboration is expected to have wide-ranging benefits in addition to reducing the risk of disruptions on SPARC. These benefits include development of a system with the potential to mitigate disruptions in other future fusion facilities. Working in partnership with Ferraro on this project will be physicists Matt Reinke, who is at CFS on leave from his Oak Ridge National Laboratory long-term siting at PPPL, Ryan Sweeney of MIT, and engineers at CFS.

TAE Technologies. This Foothill Ranch, California, company is also entering its third round of INFUSE collaborations with PPPL. The company is developing a cylindrical fusion reactor based on the field-reversed configuration (FRC) concept, which reduces the risk of disruptions by producing a high-pressure plasma that holds itself together with its own magnetic field.

PPPL physicist Elena Belova, who partnered with TAE on a previous INFUSE project, will use her HYM plasma simulation code to study the stability properties of the company's FRC concept. "The code will also numerically reproduce the operational boundaries of the FRC," Belova said, which will be used to help design the advanced next-step FRC device that TAE is planning.

"Our goal is to understand how these boundaries can be extended to a high-density regime," Belova said, "and how the fast-ions created by neutral beam injection can affect these boundaries." Partnering with Belova on this project, which is expected to directly accelerate progress toward the development of fusion energy in the private sector, will be Sean Detrick, director of computational sciences at TAE technologies.

The new one-year partnerships bring to 12 the number of INFUSE collaborations that PPPL has entered into since the DOE launched the novel program in 2019. The partnerships have drawn upon PPPL's world-class expertise in fields ranging from fusion experiments to theoretical computation and advanced engineering to speed the arrival of privately financed fusion energy.

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PPPL, on Princeton University's Forrestal Campus in Plainsboro, N.J., is devoted to creating new knowledge about the physics of plasmas -- ultra-hot, charged gases -- and to developing practical solutions for the creation of fusion energy. The Laboratory is managed by the University for the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science, which is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. For more information, visit energy.gov/science.
Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation has announced the 2021 recipients of the Damon Runyon Clinical Investigator award--six outstanding early career physician-scientists working to develop new cancer therapies under the mentorship of the nation's leading scientists and clinicians.

While there has never been a more pressing need or more promising time for clinical cancer research, fewer young physicians enter this area of investigation every year. Two of the factors contributing to this decline are the critically low number of institutions committed to training young physicians in the methodologies of clinical investigation and the burden of medical school debt discouraging many physicians from pursuing careers in research.

The Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation's Clinical Investigator Award offers solutions to these realities. Each awardee receives significant financial support for three years (totaling $600,000 each). The Foundation will also retire up to $100,000 of medical school debt owed by the awardee.

The Foundation also awarded Continuation Grants to three Damon Runyon Clinical Investigators for an additional two years of funding, totaling $400,000 each. The Continuation Grants are designed to support Clinical Investigators who are approaching the end of their original awards and need extra time to work on a promising avenue of research or a clinical trial. This program is possible through the generous support of the William K. Bowes, Jr. Foundation.

"The quality of research proposed by our Clinical Investigators is exceptionally strong. We are thrilled to be funding brave and bold physician-scientists who are taking risks to experimentally address the most important questions in cancer research and then translate them into improving patients' lives," says Yung S. Lie, PhD, Damon Runyon President and Chief Executive Officer. "We are helping to launch the careers of tomorrow's brightest cancer researchers."

Through partnerships with industry sponsors and its Accelerating Cancer Cures initiative, the Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation has committed over $76 million to support the careers of 114 clinical investigators across the United States since 2000.

2021 Damon Runyon Clinical Investigators

Kelly L. Bolton, MD, PhD, with mentors Matthew J. Walter, MD, and Eytan M. Stein, MD, at Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis

Myeloid neoplasms (MN), including acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome, are lethal blood cancers. The genetic mutations in the blood that lead to MN can occur years before diagnosis and maintain almost normal function before transformation. Certain mutations, including those in the gene IDH2, have been identified as high-risk for developing MN. Individuals with a reduction in the number of mature blood cells (cytopenias) who harbor acquired mutations in their blood, yet do not meet criteria for a cancer diagnosis, have a condition called cytopenias of undetermined significance (CCUS). These individuals almost invariably develop MN. Dr. Bolton will conduct a clinical trial to evaluate whether the IDH2 inhibitor enasidenib can be used as a therapy for CCUS. She will assess mechanisms of resistance and determine whether enasidenib can prevent the development of MN. This represents the first use of genetically targeted therapy for cancer prevention.

Alexander C. Huang, MD [Damon Runyon-Doris Duke Clinical Investigator], with mentor Gerald P. Linette, MD, PhD, at University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), like anti-PD-1 therapy (PD-1), have transformed clinical oncology by inducing long-term remissions, even in metastatic disease. However, fewer than 40% of cancer patients achieve such long-term remission with PD-1, and immune-related toxicity limits more aggressive combined approaches, such as anti-PD1 and anti-CTLA-4 therapy. The question remains why a large portion of the immune response generated by combination immunotherapy is directed towards toxicity rather than anti-tumor immunity. A better understanding of the T-cell response to ICI is needed to develop safer and more effective treatment strategies. In humans, CD8+ T-cells are responsible for anti-tumor immunity. Dr. Huang is investigating the immune responses of different types of CD8+ T-cells to PD-1 and whether they play a role in determining clinical efficacy and immune toxicity.

David Y. Oh, MD, PhD, with mentor Lawrence Fong, MD, at University of California, San Francisco

While immunotherapies such as anti-PD-1 therapy have provided an important treatment option for bladder cancer, the majority of patients do not respond to these regimens. This may reflect the distinct activation requirements of other immune T-cells besides CD8+ T-cells. In recent work, Dr. Oh and colleagues have identified cytotoxic (cancer cell-killing) CD4+ T-cells in human bladder cancer that are associated with immunotherapy responses. However, the regulation of cytotoxic CD4+ T-cells and how these mechanisms compare with CD8+ T-cells is not understood. Dr. Oh proposes to identify and validate surface receptors that enhance or inhibit the activity of cytotoxic CD4+ T cells in human bladder cancer, and the tumor antigens that are recognized specifically by these cells. He will also compare which of these regulatory mechanisms are unique to cytotoxic CD4+ T-cells relative to their CD8+ T-cell counterparts from the same patients. This work has the potential to increase both the proportion of bladder cancer patients who respond to immunotherapy as well as the quality of their response.

Philip L. Palmbos, MD, PhD, with mentor Joshi J. Alumkal, MD, at University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Although immunotherapy results in improved survival for some patients with advanced bladder cancer, most tumors do not respond, and the molecular drivers of this resistance to immunotherapy are poorly understood. Dr. Palmbos' goal is to use advanced bladder cancer models and patient data to identify the molecular drivers of resistance to bladder cancer therapy and to develop therapeutic strategies to reverse therapy resistance. His group has identified a gene, TRIM29, which is expressed in 70% of bladder cancers and is associated with immunotherapy resistance. TRIM29 is a protein that promotes degradation of STING and other innate immune proteins that drive anti-tumor immune response. He is currently investigating the regulation of the TRIM29-STING pathway and developing strategies to sensitize bladder and other cancer types to immunotherapy.

Sangeetha M. Reddy, MD, with mentors Zhijian (James) Chen, PhD, and Hans Hammers, MD, PhD, at University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas

Despite the success of immunotherapies such as immune checkpoint blockade in other solid tumors, breast cancer patients have shown limited responses, especially in cases of metastatic disease. Antigen-presenting cells, critical to initiate anti-tumor immunity and for efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade, are known to be defective in breast cancers. Dr. Reddy's research focuses on restoring effective antigen presentation to enhance anti-tumor immunity in breast cancers. Based on data generated in her lab, she is leading a clinical trial to test the combination of chemotherapy with two therapeutic molecules that promote different aspects of antigen presentation. This trial will assess the safety, clinical efficacy, and pharmacodynamics associated with this triplet therapy. Through this work, she hopes to improve long-term survival of patients with triple negative breast cancer and lay the foundation for systemically targeting antigen presentation as a therapeutic strategy in solid tumors.

Daniel R. Wahl, MD, PhD, with mentors Theodore S. Lawrence, MD, PhD, and Maria G. Castro, PhD, at University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Glioblastomas are the most common and aggressive primary brain tumors in adults. Despite intensive treatment with therapies such as radiation, these tumors inevitably recur, and fewer than 10% of glioblastoma patients live longer than 5 years after diagnosis. Dr. Wahl and his research team have found that metabolites called purines, which are the building blocks that make up DNA, make glioblastomas resistant to treatments like radiation. Dr. Wahl will use patient samples and mouse models to determine what regulates glioblastoma purine metabolism and whether inhibition of these metabolic pathways can make radiation more effective. He will also perform a clinical study to directly measure these metabolic pathways in patients with glioblastoma.

2021 Continuation Grant Recipients

Collin M. Blakely, MD, PhD, with mentor Trever G. Bivona, MD, PhD, at University of California, San Francisco

Non-small cell lung cancers are frequently driven by specific genetic alterations that can be targeted by precision medicine therapies. However, these therapies often result in partial responses, allowing some cancer cells to survive and become fully resistant to therapy. This ultimately limits patients' long-term survival. Dr. Blakely focuses on a particular type of lung cancer that is driven by mutations in the EGFR gene. This type of lung cancer frequently develops in younger patients who are non-smokers. Treatment of this disease with the targeted therapy osimertinib results in partial (incomplete) responses in the vast majority of cases. His goal is to understand why responses to this treatment are almost always incomplete, and to identify new targets for therapies to be used in combination with osimertinib. Ultimately, the goal of this research is to identify novel combination therapy strategies that can improve the depth and duration of response to targeted therapies, allowing patients to live longer.

Matthew D. Hellmann, MD, with mentors Charles M. Rudin, MD, PhD, and Jedd D. Wolchok, MD, PhD, at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York

The discovery that the immune system can be used to treat cancers has revolutionized treatment and given new hope for long-term response and survival to patients with lung cancer. Research has demonstrated that there are some predictors of response to immunotherapy, such as tumor mutation burden, which is increased in patients most likely to benefit from immunotherapy. Dr. Hellmann will focus on gaining a deeper understanding of how responses are initiated, how they remain durable, and what features characterize resistance when it occurs. He aims to use this information to build better immunotherapy strategies for patients with lung cancer--to broaden the number of patients who can benefit, improve the depth and durability of response, and have rational strategies for overcoming resistance if it occurs.

Catherine C. Smith, MD, with mentors Neil P. Shah, MD, PhD, and Kevin M. Shannon, MD, at University of California, San Francisco

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is one of the deadliest blood cancers. Mutations in the FLT3 gene are the most common mutations in AML and are associated with poor outcomes in both adult and pediatric patients. Despite the importance of FLT3 mutations in AML, we still do not understand how FLT3 is regulated or the functional impact of novel FLT3 mutations identified in recent large AML sequencing studies. Drugs targeting FLT3 have been successful in achieving remission in AML patients but are limited by the rapid development of drug resistance, particularly due to reactivation of abnormal cancer signaling through the oncogene RAS. While signaling inhibitor combinations (i.e., FLT3i +/-MEK or AKT inhibitor) are an obvious strategy to combat RAS-mediated therapeutic resistance, such combinations have been poorly tolerated in AML patients. Using a genome-wide CRISPRi screen, Dr. Smith has identified a novel and exploitable dependency on a molecule called RNA Pol II in FLT3-mutant AML with RAS activation. She will test this hypothesis, which may lay the groundwork for future clinical trials of RNA Pol II inhibitor combinations in AML with RAS activation.

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About the Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation

To accelerate breakthroughs, the Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation provides today's best young scientists with funding to pursue innovative research. The Foundation has gained worldwide prominence in cancer research by identifying outstanding researchers and physician-scientists. Twelve scientists supported by the Foundation have received the Nobel Prize, and others are heads of cancer centers and leaders of renowned research programs. Each of its award programs is extremely competitive, with less than 10% of applications funded. Since our founding in 1946, in partnership with donors across the nation, the Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation has invested over $400 million and funded over 3,850 scientists. This year, it will commit over $18 million in new awards to brilliant young investigators.

100% of all donations to the Foundation are used to support scientific research. Administrative and fundraising costs are paid with revenue from the Damon Runyon Broadway Tickets Service and our endowment.

For more information visit damonrunyon.org.
GAINESVILLE, Fla. --- Two fossil teeth from a distant relative of North American gophers have scientists rethinking how some mammals reached the Caribbean Islands.

The teeth, excavated in northwest Puerto Rico, belong to a previously unknown rodent genus and species, now named Caribeomys merzeraudi. About the size of a mouse, C. merzeraudi is the Caribbean's smallest known rodent and one of the region's oldest, dating back about 29 million years.

It also represents the first discovery of a Caribbean rodent from a North American lineage, a finding that complicates an idea that has persisted since Darwin - that land-dwelling mammals colonized the islands from South America. The presence of C. merzeraudi in Puerto Rico suggests a second possibility: Some species may have rafted from North America.

The tiny rodent joins two other types of animals, an extinct rhinoceros-like species and bizarre, venomous shrews known as Solenodons, as the only known examples of Caribbean land-dwelling mammals with North American roots.

"This discovery demonstrates that overwater dispersal from North America was also a potential pathway to the Caribbean," said study co-author Jorge Velez-Juarbe, associate curator of mammalogy at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. "This challenges what we thought we knew about the origins of Antillean terrestrial mammals."

While Caribbean ecotourism brochures generally don't feature splashy images of rats, the islands were once home to a rich representation of rodents, including spiny rats, chinchillas, rice rats and hutias - all descendants of South and Central American forebears.

Fossil and molecular evidence suggest these rodents arrived in the islands in multiple waves over time, though how they got there - whether by scurrying over an ancient land bridge, island-hopping or rafting - has been hotly contested. The paucity of fossils from the early years of the Caribbean Islands further obscures the picture of the region's past biodiversity.

Caribeomys merzeraudi's teeth were so unusual that researchers initially struggled to discern what kind of animal they had come from, said study co-author Lazaro Vinola Lopez, a doctoral student in vertebrate paleontology at the Florida Museum of Natural History.

"We didn't know what it was for several months," he said. "We wondered whether this could be some other rodent from the Caribbean or even some kind of strange fish. It was so puzzling because they're not similar to anything else we had found in that region."

The team eventually pinpointed several tooth characteristics that are hallmarks of rodents known as geomorphs, a group that includes kangaroo rats, pocket mice and gophers. Caribeomys merzeraudi is the first geomorph found outside North America.

An exceptionally thick layer of tooth enamel, among other features, sets C. merzeraudi apart from its relatives and could indicate these rodents belonged to a distinct West Indian branch that evolved in isolation over several million years, Vinola Lopez said.

Scientists found the teeth while screen-washing sediment collected from a river outcrop in San Sebastian, a site that has yielded fossil sharks and rays, fish, turtles, a gharial, sea cows and the oldest known frog in the Caribbean, a coqui. In 2019, the team excavated fossil evidence of two large chinchillas, which likely grew up to 30 pounds. These South American rodents once shared Puerto Rico with the humble C. merzeraudi, which weighed less than a quarter pound.

Today, hutias, bats and Solenodons are the "last survivors of what was once a much more diverse group of Caribbean mammals" that included sloths and primates, Velez-Juarbe said.

Discovering C. merzeraudi opens up the tantalizing possibility that Caribbean mammals with North American origins may not be as exceptional as previously thought, Vinola Lopez said. But there's only one way to find out: "Go back to the locality and see what else we can find."

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Laurent Marivaux of the University of Montpellier was the study's lead author. Other co-authors are Pierre-Henri Fabre of the University of Montpellier and the Natural History Museum; Francois Pujos of the Argentine Institute of Nivology, Glaciology and Environmental Sciences (IANIGLA); Hernan Santos-Merca, Eduardo Cruz, Alexandra Grajales Perez and James Padilla of the University of Puerto Rico; Kevin Velez-Rosado of the University of Michigan; and Jean-Jacques Cornee, Melody Philippon, Philippe Munch and Pierre-Olivier Antoine of the University of Montpellier.
The latest investigations into a promising new genetic test for glaucoma - the leading cause of blindness worldwide - has found it has the ability to identify 15 times more people at high risk of glaucoma than an existing genetic test.

The study, just published in JAMA Ophthalmology, builds on a long-running international collaboration between Flinders University and the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute and other research partners around the world to identify genetic risk factors for glaucoma. "Early diagnosis of glaucoma can lead to vision-saving treatment, and genetic information can potentially give us an edge in making early diagnoses, and better treatment decisions," says lead researcher Associate Professor Owen Siggs, from Flinders University in South Australia and the Garvan Institute of Medical Research in Sydney, NSW.

Senior author, Flinders University Professor Jamie Craig, says the latest research highlights the potential of the test in glaucoma screening and management.

"Genetic testing is not currently a routine part of glaucoma diagnosis and care, but this test has the potential to change that. We're now in a strong position to start testing this in clinical trials," says Professor Craig, a consulting ophthalmologist who also runs a in world-leading glaucoma research program at Flinders University, funded by Australia's NHMRC.

The latest results benchmarked the performance of genetic testing on 2507 Australian individuals with glaucoma, and 411,337 individuals with or without glaucoma in the UK.

One in 30 Australians will ultimately develop glaucoma, many of whom are diagnosed late due to lack of symptoms.

Once diagnosed, several treatment options can slow or halt the progression of glaucoma vision loss.

The new test, performed on a blood or saliva sample, has the potential to identify high-risk individuals before irreversible vision loss occurs.

Members of the research team are also launching a spin-out company to develop an accredited test for use in clinical trials, with recruitment expected to begin in 2022.

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The paper, Association of monogenic and polygenic risk with the prevalence of open-angle glaucoma (2021) by OM Siggs, X Han, A Qassim, E Souzeau, S Kuruvilla, HN Marshall, S Mullany, DA Mackey, AW Hewitt, P Gharahkhani, S MacGregor and JE Craig, has been published in JAMA Ophthalmology DOI:

Acknowledgements: The research was funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), and the Rebecca L Cooper Medical Research Foundation.

Declaration: Conflict of interest declaration is that some of the authors have filed a patent related to this test (JEC, AWH, SM), and/or are cofounders in a company formed to commercialise the test (OMS, JEC, AWH, SM).
According to the World Health Organization, a third wave of COVID infections is now all but inevitable in Europe. A COVID tracker developed by IIASA researcher Asjad Naqvi, aims to identify, collect, and collate various official regional datasets for European countries, while also combining and homogenizing the data to help researchers and policymakers explore how the virus spreads.

While many comparisons have been made between the COVID-19 pandemic and similar events in history, one thing sets this pandemic apart from others: the unprecedented amount of knowledge and data that is constantly being generated to understand how the pandemic is unfolding. For a high-income region like Europe, the quality of information made available on a daily basis is exceptionally high compared to the rest of the world. Using this information to make comparisons between different European countries is however not a simple task.

Almost all European countries make COVID-19 data available in the form of maps and trend graphs, but access to data behind these visualizations varies from country to country, with most allowing some form of access to regional data, while others do not release this information publicly. European countries also tend to define regions differently. The European Commission and Eurostat - the statistical office of the European Union - for instance, use homogenous units known as Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics (NUTS), where NUTS 0 denotes countries, NUTS 1 are typically provinces, NUTS 2 are districts, and NUTS 3 are sub-districts. In addition, differences in testing practices and how COVID-19 related hospital admissions and deaths are recorded, further complicate the comparison of data. Lastly, not all European countries are part of the European Union, and therefore are not subject to Eurostat reporting or data sharing requirements.

To overcome some of these challenges, IIASA researcher Asjad Naqvi has developed a COVID-19 tracker that presents data on daily COVID-19 cases at the sub-national level for 26 European countries from January 2020 until the present. Although several innovative datasets that collect unique COVID-19 related information, such as the Oxford COVID-19 Government Response Tracker and the Complexity Science Hub (CSH) Tracker have come onto the scene since the start of the pandemic, Naqvi's tracker aims to identify, collect, and collate various official regional datasets for European countries, while also combining and homogenizing the data at the NUTS 3 or NUTS 2 level. This homogenized dataset makes it possible to explore how the virus spreads in terms of cumulative cases, daily cases, and cases per capita in Europe at a daily resolution.

"One of my aims in developing this tracker was to ensure data transparency, while also making the data consistent and ready for analysis. The paper identifies sources of COVID-19 datasets for 26 European countries and how to access each of them. The data set currently contains over 0.5 million data points at the NUTS 3 or NUTS 2 level," Naqvi explains.

The tracker's data, which is discussed in a new paper published in the journal Scientific Data, can be merged with country or continent-level datasets, such as primary surveys, data from national statistical offices, or data from Eurostat, to conduct comprehensive analyses on the causes and implications of COVID-19. The paper contains a detailed discussion of data sources in each country, including their strengths and weaknesses, and the raw country-level files are provided in an online repository. According to Naqvi, this is one of the very few datasets that has been continuously updated since August 2020 to provide consistent daily information on a regional level for Europe.

The map, for example, clearly illustrates that Germany, on the whole, insulated itself well against the virus and that Sweden and Czechia were particularly hard hit since the start of the pandemic.

Naqvi notes that the tracker can be used for a host of different research questions. It can, for instance, be mapped onto NUTS-level regional data including various economic, demographic, health, tourism, and labor related indicators, some of which also have a monthly or even a weekly frequency. Since data for individual countries are provided, a detailed country-specific analysis can also be done if regional or micro data are available for analysis. Other datasets catalogued on platforms such as the Oxford COVID-19 Supertracker, provides a range of interesting information on various policies put in place by countries during the pandemic. The tracker data can be combined with several innovative global datasets containing NUTS-level information for European countries. As the data for the tracker has a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC-BY), anyone can access it at any time. The data base will continue to be updated regularly until countries stop publishing regional COVID-19 data.

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Reference

Naqvi, A. (2021). COVID-19 European regional tracker. Scientific Data DOI: 10.1038/s41597-021-00950-7

Further information

https:/ / doi. org/ 10. 5281/ zenodo. 4244878

Contacts:

Researcher contact

Asjad Naqvi

Research Scholar

Exploratory Modeling of Human-Natural Systems Research Group

Advancing Systems Analysis Program

Tel: +43 22366 807575

naqvi@iiasa.ac.at

Press Officer

Ansa Heyl

IIASA Press Office

Tel: +43 2236 807 574

Mob: +43 676 83 807 574

heyl@iiasa.ac.at

About IIASA:
The cryosphere, a term used to describe the areas of the Earth's surface where water exists in solid form, plays an important role in regulating the Earth's climate. Due to cryospheric retreat; for example, the melting Greenland ice sheet in the Arctic, greenhouse gases that were formerly in "frozen storage" are now being released. High Mountain Asia, also known as the Tibetan Plateau, hosts the largest volume of glaciers outside the polar regions. However, Tibetan glaciers are currently excluded from global greenhouse gas budgets.

According to Shichang Kang, leader of a group of researchers who recently became the first team to measure the flux variations of greenhouse gases (CO2 and CH4) in typical glacial basins in High Mountain Asia, it's important that Tibetan glaciers are not only included in budget calculations, but are subject to more thorough investigation.

In a paper published in the KeAi journal Fundamental Research, he and his colleagues report that cryoconite holes on the glacier surface in southern and southeastern regions of the Tibetan Plateau are strong sources of carbon with positive CH4 and CO2 fluxes. However, this is mitigated to some extent by the fact that proglacial river runoff can be a significant sink of atmospheric CO2; a fact not identified in previous studies.

Kang, who is a Professor at the Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, explains: "Glaciers in High Mountain Asia contain large reservoirs of organic carbon that can influence glacial ecosystems under rapid melting. We have estimated the lateral export of carbon from glaciers to the downstream. However, no systematic data exist on the current footprint of greenhouse gases from glacial basins, which limits our understanding of the carbon cycle."

He adds: "Given the current climate change problems we are facing, the impact of glacier shrinking on CH4 and CO2 fluxes in this region needs to be further investigated and understood. Specifically, the CH4 and CO2 fluxes from the cryoconite holes, subglacial sediments and proglacial rivers."

According to Dr. Yulan Zhang, the investigator who led the study: "Until now, there were no estimates on the potential climate change caused by greenhouse gas emissions from cryosphere melting in High Mountain Asia. Determining how these data are coupled with biogeochemical models, including feedback between the glacial cryosphere and atmosphere, is required to test the sensitivity of carbon sinks or sources to changes in the terrestrial cryosphere." She adds: "Our results provide new insight about the projections in the cryospheric regions. It's clear that how the climate responds to carbon and nitrogen cycles in High Mountain Asia should be thoroughly studied in the future."

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Contact the corresponding author: Shichang Kang, email: shichang.kang@lzb.ac.cn, ORCID ID: https:/ / orcid. org/ 0000-0003-2115-9005 , personal website: http://shichang-kang. sklcs. ac. cn/

The publisher KeAi was established by Elsevier and China Science Publishing & Media Ltd to unfold quality research globally. In 2013, our focus shifted to open access publishing. We now proudly publish more than 100 world-class, open access, English language journals, spanning all scientific disciplines. Many of these are titles we publish in partnership with prestigious societies and academic institutions, such as the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC).
BOSTON - Resistance to antibiotics is common and often deadly among children with pneumonia in Bangladesh, according to a new study coauthored by researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) with colleagues at the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (abbreviated as icddr,b). This study, which appears in the journal Open Forum Infectious Diseases, offers an early warning that a pandemic of potentially deadly antibiotic resistance is under way and could spread around the globe.

The study was led by Mohammod Jobayer Chisti, MD, PhD, a senior scientist in icddr,b's Nutrition and Clinical Services Division. Chisti was inspired to conduct the research when he observed that the hospital affiliated with icddr,b was admitting more and more young children with pneumonia who were highly resistant to treatment with standard antibiotics. "At our hospital, dozens of kids died of pneumonia between 2014 and 2017, despite receiving the World Health Organization's recommended antibiotics and enhanced respiratory support," says Chisti.

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that causes fluid and pus to fill air sacs, producing cough, fever, trouble breathing, and other symptoms. Without effective treatment, the infection can be fatal; pneumonia is the most common cause of death in young children, according to the World Health Organization. In small children, pneumonia can be caused by viruses, but certain types of bacteria are common sources of infection, too. In the United States and other high-income countries, Staphylococcus ("staph"), Streptococcus ("strep"), and Haemophilus influenzae are the most common bacterial causes of pneumonia, which usually respond well to antibiotic therapy. Vaccines for the latter two have saved countless lives worldwide.

However, when Chisti and his colleagues examined health records of more than 4,000 children under age five with pneumonia admitted to their hospital between 2014 and 2017, they found that a very different pattern of bacterial infections was occurring. The usual staph and strep infections that commonly cause pneumonia in the United States and elsewhere were relatively rare. Among the children who had a positive culture, gram-negative bacteria were responsible for 77 percent of the infections, including Pseudomonas, E. coli, Salmonella and Klebsiella.

"That's totally different than what I'm used to in my practice in Boston," says Jason Harris, MD, MPH, co-first author of the study and chief of the division of Pediatric Global Health at the Massachusetts General Hospital for Children. Unfortunately, he adds, "the gram-negative bacteria we saw in these kids are notorious for being antibiotic resistant." To wit: Some 40 percent of the gram-negative bacterial infections in this study resisted treatment with first- and second-line antibiotics that are routinely used to treat pneumonia. More alarming, children who had antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections were 17 times more likely than others without bacterial infections to die.

Harris believes that these results are clear evidence that longstanding concerns that antibiotic resistance will become a deadly menace are no longer theoretical--the problem has taken root. "These kids are already dying early because of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, from what would be a routine infection in other parts of the world," says Harris. "And this was at one hospital in Bangladesh. Extrapolate these findings across a country of 163 million people, and then to a larger region where antibiotic resistance is emerging, and the overall numbers are probably huge."

There is an urgent need to address factors that are promoting antibiotic resistance in Bangladesh, says Tahmeed Ahmed, PhD, executive director of icddr,b and senior author of the study. For starters, antibiotics can be purchased without a prescription in the country and many people use them to self-treat conditions such as dysentery, cold, cough and fever. Misuse of antibiotics promotes the spread of bacteria that resist the medications. "We may be able to reduce this emerging bacterial resistance by improving antibiotic stewardship, particularly in the outpatient setting," says Ahmed. Lab testing for diagnosis of bacterial infections is also inadequate in the country. "What's more, lack of access to clean water and adequate sanitation helps spread bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics," adds Ahmed. Improvements in health care infrastructure and policy changes to rein in the misuse of antibiotics are essential, he argues, though Ahmed notes that Bangladesh's health care system also needs better access to more advanced antibiotic therapies for resistant infections.

If these and other steps aren't taken now, it's only a matter of time before the problem of widespread deadly antibiotic resistance spreads around the world, notes Harris. "We know that acquisition of antibiotic resistance is very common in travelers, and that when highly resistant bacteria crop up in one part of the world, they ultimately crop up everywhere," he says, comparing the problem to another current global health care crisis. "If COVID-19 was a tsunami, then emerging antibiotic resistance is like a rising flood water. And it's kids in Bangladesh who are already going under."

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Harris is also an associate professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School.

This research was funded by unrestricted support to icddr,b from the governments of Bangladesh, Canada, Sweden and the United Kingdom. Harris receives funding from the National Institutes of Health.

About the Massachusetts General Hospital

Massachusetts General Hospital, founded in 1811, is the original and largest teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School. The Mass General Research Institute conducts the largest hospital-based research program in the nation, with annual research operations of more than $1 billion and comprises more than 9,500 researchers working across more than 30 institutes, centers and departments. In August 2020, Mass General was named #6 in the U.S. News & World Report list of "America's Best Hospitals."

About icddr,b
INDIANAPOLIS -- Nursing homes throughout the United States have been devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic with many perceptions and misperceptions but little documentation about what has happened on a day-by -day basis to residents in these facilities. A study from Regenstrief Institute and Indiana University School of Medicine research scientists is one of the first to describe and identify patterns in the course of COVID-19 in the typically frail individuals who reside in nursing homes.

Much has been written about number of deaths, vaccine uptake and other topics related to the impact of COVID on nursing homes, yet prior to the Regenstrief-IU School of Medicine study, there has been little known about how the disease has clinically affected individuals residing in nursing homes. A full understanding of the disease burden and trajectories of COVID-19 in nursing home residents - those who died and those who survived COVID - will aid medical and public health professionals immediately, will help them prepare for outbreaks of variants and may inform efforts to confront outbreaks of other diseases.

"When the COVID outbreak occurred, we [physicians who care for nursing home residents] didn't know, because we weren't armed with knowledge or clinical experience, what to expect - who would do well and who wouldn't," said Regenstrief Institute Research Scientist Kathleen Unroe, M.D., senior author of the study. "This is a population that by their very need to reside in a nursing home, has complex medical conditions and is at high risk. And it's a different population than younger adults. For example, some older adults may not experience fever in response to infection; persons with dementia may be unable to report symptoms."

The researchers studied the electronic medical records (EMRs) of 74 nursing home residents infected with COVID of whom half were women, 57 percent were Caucasian and 43 percent were African American. One third (25) died; with 23 of the deaths considered related to COVID-19 infection. Hypertension was the most common comorbidity (81 percent) followed by dementia (51 percent), diabetes (50 percent) and non-dementia mental illness (43 percent). The most common symptoms were fever, hypoxia (low oxygen level in the blood), anorexia, and fatigue/malaise. None reported headaches. The duration of symptoms was extended, with an average of more than three weeks.

The 74 nursing home residents with COVID-19 infection appeared to fall into four disease trajectory categories:

minimal to no symptoms (17)

residents who survived but experienced significant symptoms (32),

residents who died after a rapidly progressive course (less than seven days) (5)

residents who died after a prolonged course with significant symptom burden (20)

"For many of nursing home residents who survive COVID-19, the duration of symptoms is long and arduous; most will survive the disease but may not get back to baseline," said Dr. Unroe. "The effect of COVID on nursing home residents goes beyond the mortality numbers we saw."

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In addition to Dr. Unroe, authors of "COVID-19 Disease Trajectories Among Nursing Home Residents," published online ahead of print in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, are corresponding author Regenstrief Institute Research Scientist and IU School of Medicine faculty member Jennifer Carnahan, M.D., MPH, MA, and IU School of Medicine student Lauren Albert. Additional co-authors are Kristi M Lieb M.D.; Kamal Wagle M.D., MPH; Ellen Kaehr M.D., all of IU School of Medicine and Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center.

The study was funded by the National Institutes of Health's National Institute on Aging (K23AG062797) and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (1E1CMS331488).

About Regenstrief Institute

Founded in 1969 in Indianapolis, the Regenstrief Institute is a local, national and global leader dedicated to a world where better information empowers people to end disease and realize true health. A key research partner to Indiana University, Regenstrief and its research scientists are responsible for a growing number of major healthcare innovations and studies. Examples range from the development of global health information technology standards that enable the use and interoperability of electronic health records to improving patient-physician communications, to creating models of care that inform practice and improve the lives of patients around the globe.

Sam Regenstrief, a nationally successful entrepreneur from Connersville, Indiana, founded the institute with the goal of making healthcare more efficient and accessible for everyone. His vision continues to guide the institute's research mission.

About IU School of Medicine

IU School of Medicine is the largest medical school in the U.S. and is annually ranked among the top medical schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. The school offers high-quality medical education, access to leading medical research and rich campus life in nine Indiana cities, including rural and urban

Kathleen Unroe, M.D., MHA, M.S.

In addition to being a research scientist at Regenstrief Institute, Kathleen Unroe, M.D., MHA, is an associate professor at Indiana University School of Medicine and a practicing geriatrician.

Jennifer Carnahan, M.D., MPH, M.A.

In addition to her role as a research scientist at Regenstrief, Jennifer Carnahan, M.D., MPH, M.A., is an assistant professor of medicine at Indiana University School of Medicine.
Austin, Texas (July 15, 2021)

Access to high-quality public transportation can make communities more equitable by increasing access to critical opportunities such as employment, health care and healthy food, particularly for low-income individuals and people of color. A new paper published today in the Transportation Research Record identifies six broad categories of equity-advancing practices that reach beyond existing guidelines and could be widely employed by public transit agencies nationwide.

"Many of the established practices for understanding and advancing public transit equity focus on precise quantitative measurements that are disconnected from riders' day-to-day experiences," said Alex Karner, an assistant professor of community and regional planning at The University of Texas at Austin and the study's lead author. "In transit, equity goes far beyond simply assessing how service is distributed. We wanted to lift up practices that agencies were using to create fairer and more just public transit systems."

The report studied eight public transit providers in various cities across the country and identified six practices that can help ensure that public transit works well for those who need it the most. These are:

Establishing advisory committees to provide more formal, regular and specialized channels for public input than can be achieved through traditional meetings;

Partnering with advocacy organizations, which can overcome barriers to public involvement and include hard-to-reach populations;

Incorporating equity into capital planning to ensure that transit vehicles, maintenance and system expansions equitably benefit population groups;

Planning with other regional transportation agencies that are often a critical venue for equity-related conversations that cross regional boundaries, covering issues such as gentrification, housing affordability, commuter-oriented public transit and other issues;

Using ride-hailing and microtransit solutions, where appropriate, to facilitate public transit use and reduce gaps in service; and

Creating an equity culture by altering hiring, contracting and organizational practices to better weave equity principles throughout an entire agency.

In addition to establishing these broad categories, the paper assesses each method, offering insight into its limitations and opportunities by assessing real-world implementation as employed by the eight public transit organizations included in the report. Some of the highlights include the convening of a "Transit Equity Advisory Committee" by the Tri-County Metropolitan District of Oregon (TriMet) that successfully advocated for a reduced-fare program and decriminalized fare evasion; and TriMet's subsequent creation of a dedicated Department of Equity, Inclusion and Community Affairs to assist with their equity-related goals.

"At the end of the day, transportation equity is about fairness," Karner said. "There are many ways that public transit agencies can pursue this goal. Our key result is that the agencies doing the most in this space have made it their mission to incorporate equity into all aspects of their day-to-day operations. And they are the most likely to succeed."

The transit organizations included in the study are Capital Metro in Austin; the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District; LINK Houston, an equity-oriented nonprofit organization in Houston; the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County in the Houston Metro; the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority; the Massachusetts Department of Transportation; TriMet; and rabbittransit, a rural transit provider in southeast Pennsylvania.

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The paper, co-authored by community and regional planning graduate student Kaylyn Levine, was completed in collaboration with Federal Transit Administration partners and a community advisory group assembled to provide input on the broader research effort.

This article, "Equity-Advancing Practices at Public Transit Agencies in the United States", by Alex Karner and Kaylyn Levin and published in Transportation Research Record, will be free to access for a limited time and can be read here https:/ / journals. sagepub. com/ doi/ full/ 10. 1177/ 03611981211016861

About The University of Texas at Austin School of Architecture:

A top-tier school of design and planning, The School of Architecture offers degrees in architecture, architectural history, community and regional planning, historic preservation, interior design, landscape architecture, sustainable design, and urban design. Its faculty comprises many accomplished and award-winning professionals with a broad range of expertise in architectural history, design, building systems, technology, sustainability, transportation, Latin American architecture and urbanism, and the social effects of the built environment. The school also advances scholarship through three dedicated research units: the Center for American Architecture and Design, the Center for Sustainable Development, and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

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For his doctoral thesis, in which Jung established the first formal foundations for safe systems programming in Rust, he has now received several internationally renowned awards.

Ralf Jung is a postdoctoral researcher in Professor Derek Dreyer's 'Foundations of Programming' research group at the Max Planck Institute for Software Systems in Saarbrucken. Since 2015 Jung has been focusing on the programming language which was originally sponsored by Mozilla: "Rust was exciting for me because there is a very tempting promise behind it: to be a programming language that enables precise control over a system's memory usage and resource allocation, while at the same time automatically preventing many widespread programming errors," says Ralf Jung.

The weight of this promise alone is shown by the use of the programming language in practice: Although a first stable version of Rust was only released in 2015, the programming language is already being used by many large tech corporations such as Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Dropbox and Facebook. In his dissertation, Ralf Jung now provides the first formal proof that the safety promises of Rust actually hold.

"We were able to verify the safety of Rust's type system and thus show how Rust automatically and reliably prevents entire classes of programming errors," says Ralf Jung. In doing so, he also successfully addressed a special aspect of the programming language: "The so-called 'type safety' goes hand in hand with the fact that Rust imposes restrictions on the programmer and does not allow everything that the programmer wants to do. Sometimes, however, it is necessary to write an operation into the code that Rust would not accept because of its type safety," the computer scientist continues. "This is where a special feature of Rust comes into play: programmers can mark their code as 'unsafe' if they want to achieve something that contradicts the programming language's safety precautions. Together with international collaborators, including my thesis advisor Derek Dreyer, we developed a theoretical framework that allows us to prove that Rust's safety claims hold despite the possibility of writing 'unsafe' code," Jung says.

This proof, called RustBelt, is complemented by Ralf Jung with a tool called Miri, with which 'unsafe' Rust code can be automatically tested for compliance with important rules of the Rust specification - a basic requirement for correctness and safety of this code. "While RustBelt was a great success, especially in academic circles, Miri is already established in industry as a tool for security testing of programs written in Rust," explains Ralf Jung.

For his dissertation entitled 'Understanding and Evolving the Rust Programming Language'. Ralf Jung has received several national and international awards. Jung's work received one of two 'Honorable Mentions' for the 'Dissertation Award' of the 'Association for Computing Machinery' (ACM). The ACM states: "Through Jung's leadership and active engagement with the Rust Unsafe Code Guidelines working group, his work has already had profound impact on the design of Rust and laid essential foundations for its future." The ACM Dissertation Award is advertised internationally for the entire field of computer science and is thus considered to be one of the most prestigious awards for computer science dissertations worldwide.

He has also received the 'Doctoral Dissertation Award' of the 'European Joint Conferences on Theory & Practice of Software' (ETAPS), one of the most important awards in the field of software science in Europe. He is also a recipient of the Otto Hahn Medal of the Max Planck Society, which is awarded annually for particularly outstanding scientific achievements made in connection with a dissertation.

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Original Publication:

The dissertation entitled 'Understanding and Evolving the Rust Programming Language' can be found at https:/ / people. mpi-sws. org/ ~jung/ thesis. html .

Further Information:

https:/ / awards. acm. org/ doctoral-dissertation https:/ / etaps. org/ 2021/ doctoral-dissertation-award https:/ / www. mpg. de/ preise/ otto-hahn-medaille

Questions can be directed at:

Dr. Ralf Jung

jung@mpi-sws.org

+49 (681) 9303 8717

Prof. Dr. Derek Dreyer

dreyer@mpi-sws.org

+49 (681) 9303 8701

Background Saarland Informatics Campus:

800 scientists and about 2100 students from more than 80 nations make the Saarland Informatics Campus (SIC) one of the leading locations for computer science in Germany and Europe. Five world-renowned research institutes, namely the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI), the Max Planck Institute for Computer Science, the Max Planck Institute for Software Systems, the Center for Bioinformatics and the Cluster for "Multimodal Computing and Interaction" as well as Saarland University with three departments and 24 degree programs cover the entire spectrum of computer science.

Editor:

Philipp Zapf-Schramm

Competence Center Computer Science

Saarland Informatics Campus

Phone: +49 681 302-70741

E-Mail: pzapf@mmci.uni-saarland.de

Public relations work at the Saarland Informatics Campus is supported by the Competence Center Computer Science Saarland, funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Saarland State Chancellery.
Shining a beam of light into potentially contaminated water samples may hold the key to real-time detection of hydrocarbons and pesticides in water.

UBC Okanagan researchers are testing the use of fluorescence to monitor water quality. The results, they say, show great promise.

When a beam of light is shone into the water, it excites the electrons in molecules of certain compounds and causes them to emit light. The characteristics of the emitted light are like a fingerprint and can be used to identify certain contaminants, explains Nicolas Peleato, an assistant professor at UBCO's School of Engineering.

"The challenge with using this fluorescence approach is that they are typically source-specific; meaning we have to calibrate for a particular water source and anticipate what specific contaminants we want to look for," says Peleato. "In our latest work, we have developed a data processing technique that expands the effectiveness from one water source to others."

This means their new technique removes a lot of the guesswork at the beginning of the process. As Peleato points out, every water source has a slightly different composition of organic compounds, which can hide the contaminant signals, so calibrating for each source is crucial for detection accuracy.

Using machine learning algorithms, Peleato and his graduate student Ziyu Li have devised an approach that addresses the challenge of source-specific models through mapping their similarities.

According to Li, it isn't quite a one-size-fits-all method but it is close.

"By establishing a process that identifies similar patterns between water sources, the fluorescence detection becomes a viable option for real-time, accurate detection of hydrocarbons and pesticides," explains Li.

During the testing process, the researchers look for unique shapes of fluorescence signals. Each unique shape indicates the presence of impurities and helps researchers determine what the impurity is and distinguish it from other compounds.

Water contaminated with hydrocarbons is known to be carcinogenic and can be dangerous, or toxic, to flora and fauna.

The researchers are now turning their attention to using this new approach to detect and monitor chemicals, such as the major toxic contaminants in oil sand tailings ponds that may impact surface water and groundwater.

"Building a comprehensive model that seamlessly transitions from one water source to another will speed up monitoring, and has the potential to be a game changer," says Peleato.

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This work was published in the journal Chemosphere, and funded in part by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.
It's difficult enough when a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, but employed spouses of those who receive the diagnosis also are confronted with an array of practical problems. It's now up to them to untangle issues around medical leave, health insurance, caregiving benefits, and more.

It's a topic health economist Cathy Bradley, PhD, deputy director of the CU Cancer Center, encountered frequently during her previous studies on employment outcomes for cancer survivors. In 2019, Bradley and former CU Cancer Center member and stress researcher Mark Laudenslager, PhD, received a nearly $4 million grant from the National Cancer Institute to study ways to lessen the impacts of stress specifically on cancer caregivers who are also employed.

"If you have a full-time employee who's covering the family for health insurance and then their spouse becomes ill with cancer, the caregiver can't stop working," says Bradley, also professor and associate dean for research for the Colorado School of Public Health. "It's this tension that occurs and is much stronger than it would be if they were caregiving alone."

Laudenslager died in December 2020, and the COVID-19 pandemic slowed the study's progress, but study team got things moving again in April and is now enrolling caregivers to test the effectiveness of two interventions: one a series of user-managed online modules addressing caregiving concerns, the other a weekly telehealth visit with a counselor to talk through the same material face to face. A third arm, "treatment as usual," adds no new interventions to any counseling the caregiver may already be undergoing.

"What we're trying to test is: does the intervention improve outcomes? Does it reduce the cost of care for the caregiver? Caregivers often become very sick themselves due to stress," Bradley says. "It's a holistic approach where we also cover the stress of caregiving and the importance of taking time for yourself. What's different is that most stress interventions don't think about work."

The research team is also collecting hair and saliva samples from the caregivers to study cortisol levels as markers of stress. "It will be interesting to see how that corresponds with self-reported stress, so we can then determine through biomarkers which caregivers are starting to get into trouble," Bradley says. "We know that caregiver health greatly impacts patient health."

When the study is complete, Bradley hopes the results will be helpful to caregivers as well as to companies who want to offer support to the caregivers in their ranks.

"I'd like to be able to make recommendations to employers in terms of how to support their employees who are caregivers," she says, "and I'd like to have recommendations and tools available on cancer center websites on what employed caregivers need to know. You've just become a caregiver for someone with cancer and you're trying to work full time -- what employment rights do you have? What are some steps you should take? How do you talk to your employer?"

Orah Fireman, M.Ed., LCSW, a professional therapist and senior professional research assistant in the Department of Psychiatry at the CU School of Medicine, leads the in-person interventions for Bradley's study. She meets with caregivers for hourlong sessions once a week, over Zoom, to talk through strategies on talking to employers, as well as more general tools for handling stress, and the responsibilities of caregiving.

"People are so ready and wanting this support," Fireman says. "Caregivers are under extreme stress. It's not just their worries about their loved one and their health and if they are going to get better, but then there's the day-to-day -- physically caregiving for them if they need it, going to appointments with them, the unexpected needs, and runs to the hospital in the middle of the night because something isn't going right.

"These caregivers are also working," Fireman adds. "So they're also trying to maintain their jobs and be good employees and colleagues."

Fireman is excited to be part of the study and to help develop better ways to assist caregivers, but she also is impressed by how the spouses she talks to are already finding their ways through their new realities.

"I'm always struck by people's resilience," she says. "It's amazing how people cope. Even though there's room to grow in their coping skills, it's astounding what people manage to handle. It feels like what we have to offer is a match to what people need, and that feels really gratifying."

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The pandemic has taught us that almost all companies have to sell on the internet. Bots are a technology that facilitates e-commerce. They are digital assistants that can answer customer queries about products that are sold or help to locate them, as well as supporting customers in the purchasing process. "In whatever language; and moreover, chatbots never get tired: They're available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year", said Jordi Cabot, the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC) researcher who created Xatkit, a company specialized in their development. This technology has existed for some time in big companies and is now also helping improve the digital competitiveness of SMEs. Indeed, the introduction of bots is expanding: this type of artificial intelligence already generates over 40% of the traffic on the internet.

Xatkit is a new UOC spin-off which offers pre-trained bots for e-commerce. Once installed in the shops, they read the products that are sold and are automatically set up to begin to help the customers who arrive. They are also prepared to continue learning by themselves. "Our bots can do any task that a human salesperson would do, from recommending products or showing offers to notifying the shop when clients ask for a product that they are not currently offering", said Cabot.

The pandemic has taught us that almost all companies have to sell on the internet. Bots are a technology that facilitates e-commerce. They are digital assistants that can answer customer queries about products that are sold or help to locate them, as well as supporting customers in the purchasing process. "In whatever language; and moreover, chatbots never get tired: They're available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year", said Jordi Cabot, the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC) researcher who created Xatkit, a company specialized in their development. This technology has existed for some time in big companies and is now also helping improve the digital competitiveness of SMEs. Indeed, the introduction of bots is expanding: this type of artificial intelligence already generates over 40% of the traffic on the internet.

Xatkit is a new UOC spin-off which offers pre-trained bots for e-commerce. Once installed in the shops, they read the products that are sold and are automatically set up to begin to help the customers who arrive. They are also prepared to continue learning by themselves. "Our bots can do any task that a human salesperson would do, from recommending products or showing offers to notifying the shop when clients ask for a product that they are not currently offering", said Cabot.

Beyond e-commerce: digital assistants using text or the phone

Digital assistants do not just simulate human conversations on chat windows (so-called chatbots), but can also be used to answer telephone calls or comments made on websites or social media in any language. At present, Xatkit creates bots that can understand and speak in English, Spanish and Catalan.

The technological improvement of bots means that these assistants can currently engage in "complex conversations and process management tasks, processing customers' requests", explained Jordi Cabot. This technology allows customer service costs to be optimized. Cabot, a member of the research faculty at ICREA and leader of the research group SOM Research Lab of the UOC's Internet Interdisciplinary Institute (IN3), who developed Xatkit with Gwendal Daniel, a researcher from his group, indicated that the key to the development of digital assistants is that they have a specialized platform to define their functionalities and guarantee the quality of the training of the bot, testing and monitoring the behaviour in order to improve its effectiveness.

Bots created with open-source software

The Xatkit team works with open-source software, making it easy for clients to set up the digital assistants. Its platform is committed to integrating state-of-the-art technology in processing and understanding natural language to optimize the quality of the conversations. In addition to understanding what the client says, Xatkit summarizes and automatically translates texts, and also analyses the feelings of the buyers. "The bot can figure out whether the client is annoyed and adapt its answer to the situation", explained Jordi Cabot.

From research to entrepreneurship

The initiative of the UOC researchers to develop conversation bots began as a research project but, unlike other research, "we thought that, in view of the subject and the innovation behind it, it could help many organizations and have a bigger social impact", indicated Cabot. Thus, the creation of this new spin-off from the UOC's research activity allows the research group's technological expertise on digital assistants to reach the market. "Xatkit takes advantage of the state-of-the-art technology that we generate in the research to develop more innovative solutions and the research team learns from the application of the technology in real cases, thanks to the creation of the company", said the researcher.

"We recommend combining the role of researcher with that of entrepreneur, because this improves the quality and impact of the research", according to Cabot and other researchers in an article published for the 8th International Virtual Workshop on Software Engineering Research and Industrial Practice. Faced with the lack of more investment by industry in R&I, the experts said that as researchers they can "become the partners that companies need, and thus moreover bring the ideas of the research to the market".

The researchers are committed to promoting open resources, strengthening the triangle of collaboration between research, SMEs - as technology suppliers - and end clients - which could be big corporations -, or as a fruitful relationship which provides real cases of technological development. "If as researchers we don't find the appropriate SME to collaborate with our research, we create it, like we did with Xatkit", they concluded.

Spin-offs from UOC research activity

At present the UOC has four spin-offs. Before Xatkit, it created Immersium Studio, specialized in the development of immersive technology (virtual, augmented and mixed reality); Care Respite, with the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, specialized in dependent people monitoring technology for carers; and Open Evidence, an international quantitative consultancy that promotes operating strategies and models for decision-making processes through data-based computational intelligence.

The Xatkit project won the jury award at Spin UOC 2021, the UOC's annual entrepreneurship, innovation and knowledge transfer programme, promoted by the Hubbik platform.

The Xatkit project (Massive Generation of chatbots on-demand, ref. 2019 INNOV 00001) is supported by the Department for Universities and Research in the Government of Catalonia's Ministry of Business and Knowledge and receives funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Xatkit supports sustainable development goal (SDG) 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation

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UOC R&I

The UOC's research and innovation (R&I) is helping overcome pressing challenges faced by global societies in the 21st century, by studying interactions between technology and human & social sciences with a specific focus on the network society, e-learning and e-health. Over 500 researchers and 51 research groups work among the University's seven faculties and two research centres: the Internet Interdisciplinary Institute (IN3) and the eHealth Center (eHC).

The United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and open knowledge serve as strategic pillars for the UOC's teaching, research and innovation. More information: research.uoc.edu. #UOC25years
VANCOUVER, Wash. - The psychological toll of losing a job due to COVID-19 caused many young hotel and restaurant workers to consider changing careers, according to a Washington State University study.

In the study, the laid-off and fully furloughed hospitality employees reported being financially strained, depressed, socially isolated and panic stricken over the pandemic's effects, leading to increased intention to leave the industry all together. The intention to leave was particularly strong among women and younger workers.

"It's a warning sign for my industry that the younger generation was really hit hard," said Chun-Chu Chen, an assistant professor in WSU's School of Hospitality Business Management and lead author on the study in the International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management. "We've already witnessed that as the hospitality business is recovering and trying to hire more people, they cannot find the workers they want. There are many factors for that, but one may be that because of the pandemic, people think that hospitality is no longer an industry they want to work for."

Chen added that previous research has indicated that younger workers may not have as strong of a career identity as more experienced employees, making it easier for them to change careers.

Unemployment in the hospitality industry reached 37.3% in April 2020 after many lockdown measures were put in place, according to U.S. Labor Statistics. Chen heard about the impact directly from his own hospitality students who had lost jobs and decided to find out more about how other lodging and food service employees were faring during the pandemic.

For this study, Chen and coauthor WSU Professor Ming Hsiang Chen surveyed more than 600 laid-off and fully furloughed hospitality workers in June 2020. While all the workers in the study had no income at the time, furloughed workers reported somewhat less distress than those who were laid-off, a difference the authors said employers should note for the future.

"Being furloughed is not good, but it's a little bit better than being laid-off," said Chen. "One possible explanation is that if you are furloughed, you are technically still part of the organization, so you still have a sense of community, of belonging."

That feeling of being connected is important in a profession that tends to attract people who are very social, Chen said. In fact, the researchers found that social isolation was the most important factor predicting wellbeing for these workers. But it was financial strain and the perceived impact of the pandemic that predicted whether the workers were considering a career change.

The researchers found one protecting factor for unemployed or furloughed workers' wellbeing: self-efficacy, or the belief that they had personal control over their own circumstances.

However, when it came to some of Chen's unemployed hospitality students, that sense of personal control may have meant they decided to move on.

"I've seen some of my students actually looking for really good jobs in other service industries," said Chen. "I have mixed feelings about their decisions. Our students are well-equipped to thrive in most positions in the service sector. However, as much more opportunities are available right now, I would encourage them to stay in the hospitality industry."

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Thursday, July 15, 2021

10 WORST CUSTOMER SERVICE CORPORATIONS SLAMMED BY BEST-SELLING AUTHOR'S FIRST ANNUAL BROKEN WINDOWS AWARD

For immediate release

Los AngelesJuly 13, 2021Best-selling author Michael Levine, whose book, Broken Windows, Broken Business, has been ranked as one of the most influential business books of the last decade, has declared war on 10 large U.S. corporations for, in essence, turning the concept of customer service into an episode of "The Twilight Zone". In response, Levine has created the First Annual Broken Windows Award, spotlighting the 10 worst customer service corporations in the United States.

After hearing from thousands of readers in all 50 of the United States over and over again about the horrid state of customer service in many large corporations, Levine decided the time was overdue. "Finding decent customer service from major corporations shouldn't feel harder than pushing a wet mattress up a spiral staircase," said Levine.

In no order of importance, 2021's 10 worst customer service corporations in the United States, alphabetically, are:

Cigna

Few industries are as widely detested as the insurance industry, and American consumers appear to dislike health insurance giant Cigna the most. Ironically, health insurance company Cigna's customer service may very well make you sick.

DISH Network

Every good company wants to be known for something. DISH apparently wants to be known for disappointment.

Equifax

What can you say about a consumer credit reporting agency that allows itself to become the target of one of the largest data breaches of all time, waits a month and a half to make a public announcement, and then forces consumers to agree not to join a class-action lawsuit in order to see if their information was hacked? How about offering them a new company slogan: "We're not happy 'til you're not happy".

Facebook

Bad customer service? How about no customer service? Have you ever spoken to a live human employee of Facebook? Exactly. It's impossible. You'd have better luck landing a tell-all interview with Bigfoot.

McDonalds

In light of McDonalds' current reputation and its most recent ad slogans, "I'm lovin' it" and "Choose lovin'" the company has obviously chosen to target the masochistic fast-food demographic.

Monsanto

Monsanto is responsible for making and selling deadly chemical products including DDT, PCBs, Agent Orange, and Roundup, not to mention genetically modified organism seedsGMOs. What's the ultimate in bad customer service? How about actually killing your customers? That's one way of dealing with consumer complaints.

Spectrum

Suspicious charges, bogus fees, unfair billing practices. You'd have to admire their honesty, though, if they changed their company slogan to, "Just bend over and take it."

United Airlines

United is clearly your ideal airline  if your standards are lower than a limbo bar.

United States Postal Service (USPS)

Its website states: "Performance is what the Postal Service is all about. We strive to be best-in-class in all we do." Right. Face itthe USPS is the postal version of erectile dysfunction.

Wells Fargo

The bank's slogan is "Life's Better When We're Connected". Considering its offenses against its customers, perhaps it should more accurately be, "Your Life Will Be Better When We're in Prison".

"This list is much more than a press announcement. It is the beginning of an all-out consumer war against the disgraceful corporate disregard for customers as humans," added Levine.

In preparation for next year's 2022 Second Annual Broken Windows Award list of the worst consumer service corporations, Levine is issuing a nationwide search. "I want consumers to send us examples of their horrible customer service experiences with major corporations (not to exceed 100 words), along with any photos, videos, or other supporting documentation." This may be sent to: BrokenWindowsAward2022@gmail.com.

The latest completely revised edition of Broken Windows, Broken Business was recently released after having become a top-selling business book internationally for 15 years.

Contact

Levine is available for interviews and can speak about the Broken Windows Award and the 10 large corporations receiving it. He can also comment on which companies are implementing the best customer service possible.

Michael Levine has been widely regarded as one of the world's premier branding and media experts for the last 30 years. He has represented a record-breaking 58 Academy Award winners, 34 Grammy Award winners, and 43 New York Times bestsellers including Barbra Streisand, Michael Jackson, Prince, and George Carlin. He has authored 19 books and five bestsellers, including Broken Windows, Broken Business, and Guerrilla P.R.

Michael Levine

MLevine@TimeWire.net

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Seattle, WAChristopher Gilbert, PhD, author of The Noble Edge: Reclaiming an Ethical World One Choice at a Time, was featured on the Dr. Pat Radio Show. An international award-winning talk radio host and CEO of a successful motivational company, Dr. Pat Bacili discovered, through reading The Noble Edge, that she and Christopher Gilbert are kindred spirits. Both found their current calling after experiences in the corporate world sent them in pursuit of more rewarding endeavors. Gilbert became a college professor and international ethics consultant, while Dr. Bacilli sought to create a better world through the media, public speaking and other means. She is famous for her keen interviewing skills.

Dr. Pat opened the show by noting that her return to school, in concert with Gilbert, found her researching the ethical and moral lapses of people and institutions and how that situation might be altered. She asked, "And what happens when we enter the world, and we find that integrity is crumbling? I'll tell you what happens, you get a book called The Noble Edge: Reclaiming an Ethical World One Choice at a Time by Dr. Christopher Gilbert. And when you get a book like this, and you look at what it means to bring the pieces back to the forefront, then you truly step into a level of truth that is freeing. Dr. Gilbert thank for joining me today and thank you for writing this book"

Such an opening allowed Dr. Gilbert to relate his own story of disillusionment. He was running an innovative food company whose idea was stolen by potential investors and destroyed overnight. This jarring experience sent Gilbert on a journey he never expected to take, one partially chronicled in his book. Gilbert and Dr. Pat's symbiotic experiences allowed the conversation to build on itself and unfold valid observations on many aspects of society. A good interview which was all too short. Gilbert's ability to pull multiple, highly relatable stories from his worldwide experiences is truly fascinating.

Expert Click Radio  Dr. Pat Show Radio Show with Dr. Christopher Gilbert, Author of 'The Noble Edge'

In this increasingly toxic moral era, trust and authenticity grow more precious by the minute. The truth is that our most rewarding business, personal, and family relationships are founded on honesty. The Noble Edge invites readers into an inspirational conversation about building trust that is spiced with personal stories, humorous anecdotes, and invaluable guidance.

"The important ethical issues of today are not found in arguing about which schoolyard bully is the most unethical," says Gilbert. "That's the smoke in the moral room. The fire is our misguided belief that 'good' people make the good decisions and 'bad' people make the unethical ones, when we all go up and down the moral ladder every day"

"Ethics isn't about information, it's about transformation," says Gilbert. "We need a national conversation about what it means to do right in business and in life despite the personal, professional, and social pressures to ignore what is right in favor of what passes for 'success'"

"Wow! I couldn't put it down. The book is brilliant, inspiring, filled with humor that informs and amazing personal stories. If I were still Dean of the USC Law School, I would assign it to every student" The Honorable Dorothy Nelson, Past Dean, University of Southern California Law School, Retired Chair of the United States Baha'i National Spiritual Assembly

"The Noble Edge is truly an inspirational book, encouraging us to become the best versions of ourselves, and to advance into a society that rests on trust, respect, and ethical choices. Highly recommended" Rachel Song, Editor and Writer

The Noble Edge: Reclaiming an Ethical World One Choice at a Time, ISBN 978-1631954054 (e-book) $8.49, (paperback) $17.95, Morgan James Publishing, 254 pages, Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

About Christopher Gilbert, PhD: Dr. Christopher Gilbert is a senior international ethics consultant and popular keynote speaker. As co-founder of NobleEdge Consulting, he has worked with Fortune 500, government, and non-profit organizations, including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, traveling the globe to spearhead sustainability, human capacity development, and business conduct programs.

With over 25 years of award-winning teaching experience in colleges and universities on four continents, Chris has also pioneered nationally recognized professional development and ethics centers. As a motivational speaker and author, he is well known for his informative humor, authenticity, and personalized inspiration. He holds a PhD specializing in leadership ethics, a Master of Business Administration, and a Bachelor of Science in geology.

Chris is privileged to split the remaining ten minutes of his spare time between his daughters and grandchildren, community theater, and gourmet cooking adventures with his wife, Marie, (including an authentic re-creation of Titanic's last, first class, eleven-course dinner). He and his family are blessed to live and sail on the beautiful estuarian waters of the Salish Sea outside Seattle, Washington.

Chris is the author of the bestselling There's No Right Way to Do the Wrong Thing and his newest release, The Noble Edge: Reclaiming an Ethical World One Choice at a Time, an inspirational conversation about truth and trust. You can find more information about Chris Gilbert on his website, nobleedgeconsulting.com.

Media Contact: For a review copy of The Noble Edge: Reclaiming an Ethical World One Choice at a Time or to arrange an interview with Christopher Gilbert, PhD, contact Scott Lorenz of Westwind Communications Book Marketing at scottlorenz@westwindcos.com or by phone at 734-667-2090. Follow Lorenz on twitter @abookpublicist
With a new loan in hand, a major mixed-use project thats been in the works for years on the East Side may be advancing.

The new financing would be used in part for a railroad quiet zone, a need developers say has been holding up progress on what they call Essex Modern City.

The idea for the project began percolating in 2015, when local developer Efraim Varga approached California investment firm Harris Bay about building on a former pallet manufacturing site at Essex and Cherry streets.

The City Council approved zoning changes in 2016. Varga and Harris Bay laid out plans for the project in 2017: a $150 million development with housing, offices and retail. It was billed as a big draw for the Denver Heights neighborhood.

Its going to be a catalyst for the neighborhood, Varga said at the time. Its going to do exactly what the Pearl did, and bring in more developers.

Construction was supposed to start that year but never began, and Varga ended his involvement in the development in 2019 to focus on a solar company. The site currently features public art and has hosted events.

Harris Bay co-founder Jake Harris has previously said progress has been held up by efforts to have the area designated as a quiet zone. Part of a nearly $3.5 million loan a Harris Bay affiliate recently secured will be used for that work, according to a news release.

On ExpressNews.com: Creating a village: Gervin-Hawkins long-sought development on San Antonio's East Side breaks ground

Kennedy Funding, a New Jersey-based private lender that made the new loan, said in a news release it will also be used to cash out a current loan and proceed with planning and engineering.

All Essex Modern City needed was the funding  everything else was in place, said Kevin Wolfer, CEO of Kennedy Funding. Seeing a clear plan for the site and the citys support, we were able to quickly process and approve their loan application.

Plans for the 8-acre site include 80,000 square feet of retail space, 80,000 square feet of office space and about 800 residential units of varying sizes. The entitlement process for Essex Modern City is in the final stages, and a map of the development is being designed, Wolfer said.

San Antonio has been quietly growing in recent years, and mixed-use development like Essex Modern City will be a great resource for the people moving there, he added.

Harris did not immediately respond to an email inquiry Thursday morning.

Harris Bay has other projects planned in San Antonio, including turning the Travis Building at 405 N. St. Marys St. into luxury apartments and building a boutique hotel next it, renovating the Antiques Warehouse on South Flores Street, and developing apartments and possibly retail space at warehouses near G.W. Brackenridge High School.

madison.iszler@

express-news.net
Battered by the coronavirus pandemic, a distressed West Side mall owned by one of the largest U.S. retail landlords was foreclosed on this month by its lender.

An entity affiliated with Morgan Stanley acquired Ingram Park Mall at 6301 N.W. Loop 410 with a $100.7 million bid at a July 6 foreclosure auction.

Longtime owner Simon Property Group built the mall, totaling about 1.1 million square feet, more than 40 years ago.

The foreclosure sale occurred a month after Simons loan came due. A Simon spokeswoman didnt respond to a request for comment Thursday, so its not clear if it attempted to refinance the property or if it simply decided it no longer wanted to own the mall.

The sale didnt include store space owned by Dillards, JCPenney, Sears and Macys.

Malls across the country have been devastated by the COVID-19 outbreak. Restrictions depleted foot traffic and forced retailers to close stores for months, prompting them to seek rent relief from landlords. Customers, unable or hesitant to venture out, turned to online shopping.

Simon Property Group, an Indianapolis-based real estate investment trust, has turned over multiple malls to lenders during the pandemic, including properties on Ohio, Wisconsin and Connecticut, MarketWatch reported in November.

Citing the pandemics effects on malls and expectations of higher losses, Fitch Ratings in November downgraded a pool of loans that included the Ingram Park Mall  one of the largest loans in the portfolio.

Fitch cited the malls downward trending performance metrics that include year-over-year occupancy and cash flow declines and limited leasing traction.

A regulatory filing shows Simon had borrowed $122.3 million on the mall and owed roughly $9.7 million in principal and interest annually.

The assessed value on the malls real estate dropped from almost $84 million last year to $62.5 million this year, the Bexar Appraisal Districts website shows.

The mall was built in 1979 and was last renovated in 2018. It had already lost two major tenants prior to the pandemic: Dillards Home Center in 2016 and Sears in 2018, which together occupied about 248,465 square feet, according to Fitch.

Still, Simon reported Ingram Park Mall had an occupancy of 91.7 percent at the end of last year.

Big shopping centers in San Antonio have stayed largely full during the pandemic, in part because little new retail space is being built and new tenants are taking over vacant storefronts left behind by struggling retailers.

SA Inc.: Get the best of business news sent directly to your inbox

About 93.6 percent of the areas retail space was occupied at mid-year, according to Dallas-based Weitzman. Thats unchanged from the latter half of 2020, and slightly lower than 94 percent in the first half of 2020 and 94.5 percent at the end of 2019.

Simon owned more than 200 retail properties at the end of last year. During the pandemic, it said it had agreed to defer or abate rental payments for a number of its tenants.

Ingram Park Malls sale means Simon no longer owns any malls in San Antonio. At one time, it also owned the Windsor Park Mall  now Rackspace Technology Inc.s home  and Rolling Oaks Mall, owned by Washington Prime Group, a real estate investment trust spun off by Simon in 2014.

Simons nearest area holding is San Marcos Premium Outlets, a 735,000-square-foot retail property that it acquired in 2010.

The lenders trustee declined to comment. A Morgan Stanley representative did not respond to an inquiry Thursday.

madison.iszler@express-news.net
Barbecue and tacos occupy two of the major food groups in Texas, so its no surprise that the San Antonio area has been getting lots of love lately on a pair of podcasts. Tacos of Texas and Vanishing Postcards both feature San Antonio-area restaurants and food culture on recent episodes that are worth a listen.

Mando Rayo just launched his Tacos of Texas series Monday, and the first episode titled The Rise of Tex-Mex BBQ features Ernest Servantes of the Burnt Bean Co. in Seguin. Servantes was part of a panel that discussed the regional history and current rise in popularity of Mexican-inspired barbecue.

It was what we were raised on. I always call it the church banquet or fundraiser meal, Servantes said in the episode. Brisket over mesquite and being raised on the ranch. The traditions. Fajitas are the perfect Tex-Mex barbecue. Mesquite coals and the rendering of the fat. Its that comfort it brings.  Dad is drinking Lone Star beer on the patio.

On ExpressNews.com: S.A. food truck Churro Star making scratch-made churros into inventive desserts

Future San Antonio-centric episodes will explore the birria tacos of El Remedio, clear up the muddy history of tacos with Ellen Riojas Clark of the University of Texas at San Antonio, and dive into UTSAs extensive Mexican cookbook collection, one of the oldest and most comprehensive collections in the world.

Ron Cortes /Contributor file photo

Each episode of the series is 30 minutes long, with new episodes dropping every other week at kutkutx.studio/category/tacos-of-texas.

Evan Stern launched his Vanishing Postcards podcast in April and recently featured the iconic Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia in Market Square and Diana Barrios Trevino of Los Barrios, who talks about how the puffy taco helped build her familys food legacy. The 32-minute episode, which includes a look at the James Beard Awad-winning Brownsville barbacoa restaurantVeras Backyard BBQ, can be found at vanishingpostcards.com.

Stern, who grew up in Austin but now lives in New York, is focusing the first season of his podcast on stories that hit on all sorts of elements throughout Texas, where he traveled more than 1,500 miles in the past 18 months.

I created Vanishing Postcards to mine out tales and traditions that have withstood generations and my listeners hear from the scrappy folks behind their survival, Stern said in a news release. On the surface, the stories I unpack in this series may not be of seismic historical consequence, but theyre about people who possess an honest grace and display a common good that brings us all together.

cblount@express-news.net | Twitter: @chuck_blount | Instagram: @bbqdiver
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP)  More people living along the eastern edge of an Oregon wildfire were told to evacuate late Thursday as the inferno began spreading rapidly and erratically in hot afternoon winds and threatened to merge with a nearby, smaller fire that had also exploded in size.

The Bootleg Fire, the largest wildfire currently burning in the U.S., has now torched an area larger than New York City and has stymied firefighters with erratic winds and extremely dangerous fire behavior. The fire, pushed by winds from the south, has the potential to move 4 miles (6 kilometers) or more in an afternoon and there is concern it could merge with the smaller, yet still explosive Log Fire, said Rob Allen, incident commander for the blaze.

The Log Fire started on Monday as three smaller fires but exploded to nearly 5,000 acres (2,000 hectares) in 24 hours. It is also being fanned by winds from the south, Allen said.

Firefighters were all pulled back to safe areas due to intense fire behavior and were scouting ahead of the main blaze for areas where they could make a stand by carving out fire lines to stop the inferno's advance, he said.

Crews are watching the fire, nearby campgrounds "and any place out in front of us to make sure the publics out of the way, Allen said. He said evacuation orders are still being assessed.

The main fire has destroyed 21 homes in an area north of the Oregon-California border that has been gripped by extreme drought. It was 7% contained as of Thursday, when authorities decided to expand previous evacuation orders near Summer Lake and Paisley. Both towns are located in Lake County, a remote area of lakes and wildlife refuges with a total population of about 8,000.

Were trying to determine where is it moving, how far and how fast, to determine what to do with evacuation levels, said Gert Zoutendijk, spokesman for the Oregon office of the State Fire Marshal. The big word is for everyone in Lake County to be aware and start getting signed up for the alert system if they have not already.

On Wednesday, the Bootleg Fire generated enormous smoke columns that could be seen for miles  a sign that the blaze is so intense it is creating its own weather, with erratic winds and the potential for fire-generated lightning.

Meanwhile, a fire near the northern California town of Paradise, which burned in a horrific 2018 wildfire, caused jitters among homeowners who were just starting to return to normal after surviving the deadliest blaze in U.S. history.

Chuck Dee and his wife, Janie, returned last year to Paradise on the foothills of California's Sierra Nevada to rebuild a home lost in that fire. So when they woke up Thursday and saw smoke from the new Dixie Fire, it was frightening, even though it was burning away from populated areas.

It made my wife and I both nervous, he told The Associated Press in a telephone interview.

The Dixie Fire was tiny when it began on Tuesday, but by Thursday morning it had burned 3.5 square miles (9 square kilometers) of brush and timber near the Feather River Canyon area of Butte County northeast of Paradise. It also moved into national forest land in neighboring Plumas County.

There was zero containment and officials kept in place a warning for residents of the tiny communities of Pulga and east Concow to be ready to leave.

The Dixie Fire is part of a siege of conflagrations across the West. There were 71 active large fires and complexes of multiple fires that have burned nearly 1,553 square miles (4,022 square kilometers) in the U.S., mostly in Western states, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

Extremely dry conditions and heat waves tied to climate change have swept the region, making wildfires harder to fight. Climate change has made the American West much warmer and drier in the past 30 years and will continue to make weather more extreme and wildfires more frequent and destructive.

In the Pacific Northwest, firefighters say they are facing conditions more typical of late summer or fall than early July.

A wildfire threatening more than 1,500 homes near Wenatchee, Washington, grew to 14 square miles (36 square kilometers) by Thursday morning and was about 10% contained, the Washington state Department of Natural Resources said.

About 200 firefighters were battling the Red Apple Fire near the north-central Washington city renowned for its apples. The fire was also threatening apple orchards and an electrical substation, but no structures have been lost, officials said.

In Paradise, California, about 80 miles (129 kilometers) north of Sacramento, residents are focused on rebuilding. So far, 1,642 building permits have been issued with 923 homes completed, according to the citys website. The skyrocketing cost of lumber has complicated some projects, but Chuck Dee said he was fortunate to get his bid in place before the prices rose.

The Dees' rebuilt house is a little smaller than the original one, and with a different floor plan  and this one was constructed with fire retardant siding. A local law also prohibits wooden fences from touching the houses.

The couple hope to move in once they get their utilities hooked up. In the meantime, they're living in an RV. They said they don't regret moving back, having accepted that fires will be part of life in this part of California.

We cant wait to get back in this house and get started, Chuck Dee said.

_____

This story has been edited to correct that the size of the Log Fire is 5,000 acres, not 500 acres.

___

Beam reported from Sacramento, California. Associated Press writers John Antczak in Los Angeles and Chris Grygiel in Seattle contributed to this report.
A Hays County man was sentenced to life in prison Wednesday after he was found guilty the previous day of killing another man during a jealous rage in 2018.

Prosecutors said 41-year-old Mark James Stevens shot Brandon Fontenette, 36, 13 times with a BB gun before strangling him and fatally stabbing him in the back inside the former's Buda home he shared with his wife, Jeanette Stevens.

The couple met Fontenette while they were at the Railhouse Bar in Kyle on July 25, 2018. After about an hour, they invited Fontenette to their home.

On ExpressNews.com: San Antonio loan officer pleads guilty in Capitol riot

Once at the home, the three engaged in a consensual sexual encounter, the Hays County District Attorney's Office said in a news release. During the trial, prosecutors said Mark Stevens snapped and killed Fontenette for having sex with his wife, according to a KXAN report. The defense argued Mark Stevens killed Fontenette out of self-defense, the KXAN story said.

After the incident, Stevens called his brother asking how to dismember and dispose of a body, the DA's news release said. The brother then told his father, who called 911.

Police arrived at the Stevens home nearly 10 hours after the incident and found Fontenette's body in the couple's bathroom and his wallet and cellphone in a plastic bag nearby.

The Stevenes were both arrested in connection with the case. The husband's capital murder trial began July 6 and ended Wednesday with his life sentence. He also was sentenced to 10 years in prison for tampering with evidence. He will serve both sentences concurrently.

Jeanette Stevens' case begins Thursday. She is facing first-degree murder and evidence tampering charges.

taylor.pettaway@express-news.net
Bexar County District Attorney's Office

A San Antonio man was sentenced on Thursday to 50 years in prison for recording himself sexually assaulting a child, the Bexar County District Attorney's Office said in a news release.

According to the release, John Delgado, 42, was arrested in March 2020 after Google alerted the Texas Attorney General Office's Child Exploitation Unit that the man had uploaded 261 files of child pornography onto his Google Drive.
SOPERTON, Ga. (AP)  Authorities say they hope to reopen an interstate that connects much of Georgia to its coastline by next week after a crash knocked a bridge overpass from its support beams.

Crews plan to demolish the overpass above Interstate 16 so they can reopen that key route by next week, the Georgia Department of Transportation said. A short stretch of the interstate was closed in both directions following Thursdays crash. Detours hae been set up on nearby roads.

At a news conference Thursday, authorities said a semi on I-16 was hauling a trailer with a dumping mechanism that was extended upwards, causing it to strike the bridge above.

Apparently, the tractor-trailer has a dump bed similar to a dump truck," said Russell McMurry, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Transportation. It appears that it was raised, which then struck the bridge."

The agency shared photos on social media that show the bridge dislodged from its concrete base.

The quickest way to reopen the interstate is to essentially demolish the damaged bridge above it, McMurry said.

If everything goes right, well start tearing the bridge apart tonight, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said at Thursday's briefing.

The plan is for one of the westbound lanes  Savannah to Macon  to be open by Sunday, McMurry said. Then, one of the eastbound lanes would be open by Monday.

By late next week, officials hope to have all lanes in both directions reopened.

Interstate 16 is the main route used by many people from metro Atlanta who travel south from the city to Macon, and then use I-16 to get to Savannah and Hilton Head Island in South Carolina. The bridge is about 150 miles (240 kilometers) southeast of Atlanta.
HAVANA (AP)  Large contingents of Cuban police patrolled the capital of Havana on Monday following rare protests around the island nation against food shortages and high prices amid the coronavirus crisis. Cuba's president said the demonstrations were stirred up on social media by Cuban Americans in the United States.

Sundays protests marked some of the biggest displays of antigovernment sentiment in the tightly controlled country in years. Cuba is going through its worst economic crisis in decades, along with a resurgence of coronavirus cases, as it suffers the consequences of U.S. sanctions imposed by former President Donald Trumps administration.

Many young people took part in demonstrations in Havana. Protests were also held elsewhere on the island, including in the small town of San Antonio de los Banos, where people objected to power outages and were visited by President Miguel Diaz-Canel. He entered a few homes, where he took questions from residents.

Authorities appeared determined to put a stop to the demonstrations. More than a dozen protesters were detained, including a leading Cuban dissident who was arrested trying to attend a march in the city of Santiago, 559 miles (900 kilometers) east. The demonstrators disrupted traffic in the capital for several hours until some threw rocks and police moved in and broke them up.

Internet service was spotty, possibly indicating an effort to prevent protesters from communicating with each other.

We've seen how the campaign against Cuba was growing on social media in the past few weeks,'' Diaz-Canel said Monday in a nationally televised appearance in which his entire Cabinet was also present. That's the way it's done: Try to create inconformity, dissatisfaction by manipulating emotions and feelings.

In a statement Monday, U.S. President Joe Biden said Cuban protesters were asserting their basic rights.

"We stand with the Cuban people and their clarion call for freedom and relief from the tragic grip of the pandemic and from the decades of repression and economic suffering to which they have been subjected by Cubas authoritarian regime,'' Biden said.

The U.S. urges the Cuban government to serve their people rather than enriching themselves,'' Biden added.

U.N. deputy spokesman Farhan Haq on Monday stressed the U.N. position on the need for freedom of expression and peaceful assembly to be respected fully, and we expect that that will be the case.

The demonstrations were extremely unusual on an island where little dissent against the government is tolerated. The last major public demonstration of discontent, over economic hardship, took place nearly 30 years in 1994. Last year, there were small demonstrations by artists and other groups, but nothing as big or widespread as what erupted this past weekend.

In the Havana protest on Sunday, police initially trailed behind as protesters chanted, Freedom! Enough! and Unite! One motorcyclist pulled out a U.S. flag, but it was snatched from him by others.

We are fed up with the queues, the shortages. Thats why Im here, one middle-age protester told The Associated Press. He declined to identify himself for fear of being arrested later.

Later, about 300 pro-government protesters arrived with a large Cuban flag, shouting slogans in favor of the late President Fidel Castro and the Cuban revolution. Some assaulted an AP videojournalist, smashing his camera. AP photojournalist Ramon Espinosa was then beaten by a group of police officers in uniforms and civilian clothes; he suffered a broken nose and an eye injury.

The demonstration grew to a few thousand in the vicinity of Galeano Avenue and the marchers pressed on despite a few charges by police officers and tear gas barrages. People standing on many balconies along the central artery in the Centro Habana neighborhood applauded the protesters passing by. Others joined in the march.

About 2 1/2 hours into the march, some protesters pulled up cobblestones and threw them at police, at which point officers began arresting people and the marchers dispersed. AP journalists counted at least 20 people who were taken away in police cars or by individuals in civilian clothes.

Although many people tried to take out their cellphones and broadcast the protest live, Cuban authorities shut down internet service throughout the afternoon Sunday.

On Monday, Cuban authorities were blocking Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram and Telegram, said Alp Toker, director of Netblocks, a London-based internet monitoring firm.

This does seem to be a response to social media-fueled protest, he said. Twitter did not appear to be blocked, though Toker noted Cuba has the ability to cut it off if it wants to.
More than 250 people are currently hospitalized with COVID-19 in San Antonio.

The number is a huge jump from last months low of 117, but much less than six months ago when 1,411 were hospitalized.

Around 95 percent of people sick enough to be treated in the hospital right now were unvaccinated, and the overwhelming majority of cases stem from the highly transmittable delta variant, said Dr. Bryan Alsip, University Healths chief medical officer.

On ExpressNews.com: COVID is not going to go away: San Antonios COVID positivity rate nearly doubles in one week

He joined San Antonio and Bexar County officials at a city hall briefing Wednesday to urge residents who are not fully vaccinated to get protected against the coronavirus by getting their shots now.

The increase in COVID-19 cases is a reminder that after 230,623 known COVID patients and 3,578 deaths in our community, the virus isnt finished with us, said Mayor Ron Nirenberg.

Of particular concern are children ages 12 and up who are eligible for the vaccine but havent gotten it.

Only 10 percent of those ages 12-14 are fully vaccinated, and only a third between the ages of 15 and 29 are fully vaccinated, according to public health officials.

What we see happening is that young people are the ones choosing, by and large, not to get vaccinated, said Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff, who at times seemed exasperated that numbers spiked again. We know thats where the problem is, and were going to have to do everything we can to convince them to do that.

Wolff said people should be listening to medical professionals right now and get off of social media, where misinformation is easily spread.

Dr. Junda Woo, San Antonio Metropolitan Health Districts medical director, also recommended children, especially those too young to get the vaccine, continue wearing masks.

Three vaccines have been approved on an emergency basis by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. COVID-19 vaccines are widely available for free at local pharmacies and pop-up sites throughout San Antonio, including six days a week at the Robert B. Green Campus.

Its taken too many of our loved ones and neighbors, Nirenberg said. As a reminder, you dont need health insurance to get vaccinated, and you will not be asked your immigration status.

CORONAVIRUS: Bexar County's positivity rate is on the rise. Keep track of this and other key indicators at ExpressNews.com/covid-tracking

Monday, the Metropolitan Health District reported the positivity rate in San Antonio had nearly doubled to 11.2 percent, up from 5.8 percent the week before  though fewer people are getting tested.

While nearly 75 percent, or 1.2 million, Bexar County residents have received at least one dose, only 61.9 percent of them are fully vaccinated. More than 213,000 people havent returned for their second shot.

Metro Health Director Claude Jacob, who started on the job a week ago, said those who skipped their second dose should go back and get it, but he advised against mixing brands.

Its not too late, Jacob said.

laura.garcia@express-news.net
A week before Mayor Ron Nirenberg is expected to choose the next leader of the key group that shapes affordable housing policy in San Antonio, community organizers protested in front of City Hall, urging him against tapping former City Councilwoman Shirley Gonzales for the position.

Gonzales, who stepped down as District 5s city councilmember last month after serving the maximum of four terms, applied for a seat on the citys nine-member Housing Commission, which is tasked with steering the citys housing strategies, including those that encourage affordable housing development and prevent residents from being priced out of their homes.

We know Shirley Gonzales is not the affordable housing champion we need, Sofia Lopez, a housing researcher and former San Antonio Housing Authority board member, said during the demonstration Wednesday afternoon.

In a statement, the mayors spokesman said Nirenberg plans to announce several appointments next week but was not planning to discuss them in advance. Gonzales, meanwhile, said she hadnt talked to the mayor about the position but would serve in the role if asked.

But its clear the current chair of the Housing Commission wont be serving in that capacity any longer. During the demonstration Wednesday afternoon, Jessica Guerrero, the outgoing chair, said the mayor wont keep her on for another term.

Guerrero, who works as a housing justice advocate, has served on the commission for the last two years and was named chair in early 2020 when its former leader, Lourdes Castro Ramirez, left to join California Gov. Gavin Newsoms administration.

When Guerrero was first appointed, she was one of the  if not the only  renters serving on the commission. During her tenure, she said shes focused on finding ways to help San Antonios most financially vulnerable families stay in their homes as housing costs have soared.

I am very, very concerned about the future of the housing commission, Guerrero said. That appointment would be an absolute shift in direction.

As community organizers held a banner reading, Ron bows to developers, housing advocates raised concerns that, if tasked to lead the commission, Gonzales would steer it in a direction that prioritized housing development at the expense of San Antonians with the lowest incomes.

Like many other cities across the U.S., San Antonio has shifted toward privatizing affordable housing development as federal funding for government-subsidized programs dwindled in recent decades. As San Antonio lost hundreds of public housing units, which are reserved for the citys poorest families, housing providers instead shifted toward building apartments for families with a range of income levels.

Even though some of those projects have been funded by city, state and federal dollars, housing advocates say many of them arent within financial reach for some San Antonio residents. An estimated 300,000 people here live below the poverty level  an annual income of $26,500 for a family of four.

In 2013, when I got on the council, we were very much in the middle of the decade of downtown, and that model was not intended to create affordable housing, Gonzales said. We were trying to just get activity and get housing in the downtown and surrounding area.

If tapped to chair the commission, Gonzales said that she would work to represent the mayors housing policy priorities, which now weighed in favor of affordability.

Many of the projects early on were intended to just bring housing ... over time, it sort of evolved to be more affordable, Gonzales said. In the post-pandemic environment, there is a lot more emphasis on affordable.

marina.riker@express-news.net
Prominent San Antonio lawyer Martin Phipps and former law partner T.J. Mayes public feud appears to have come to an end.

At a Wednesday hearing for a permanent protective order against Mayes, Phipps lawyers abruptly dropped the request.

Phipps, 51, had alleged Mayes, 35, threatened him and his children during a months-long scorched-earth media campaign against me, my family, my business partners, my employees and several other local public officials in San Antonio.

On ExpressNews.com: Martin Phipps company behind San Antonios Paramour bar accuses consignment shop of selling stolen goods

The allegations led state District Judge Cathleen Stryker to grant a temporary protective order April 29. That hearing was held ex-parte, meaning Mayes wasnt there to oppose the request. The temporary order had been extended but expired Wednesday.

During Wednesdays court hearing before Stryker, Gabriel Ortiz, Phipps lawyer and law partner, said he was withdrawing the motion given Mayes had not made any more threats and some of Mayes social media accounts had been taken down.

We dont want this to turn into some sort of mudslinging, Ortiz said. Theres been enough of that since January. We really are not looking to create some sort of circus around this and were afraid thats the route itsgoing towards.

Ortiz added, We just want to put an end to this.

Etan Tepperman, a Denton lawyer representing Mayes, said he was pleased with the outcome of the case.

This is another reminder that due process matters, Tepperman said in an email.

In court papers filed before the hearing, Mayes accused Phipps of abusing the protective order process to retaliate against him and deflect from Phipps own illegal conduct and unethical behavior.

Staff file photo

Phipps was arrested Feb. 8 by San Antonio Police Department officers on suspicion of telephone harassment, a Class B misdemeanor, for repeatedly contacting a woman to whom he was briefly married. He was freed on bail. His criminal defense lawyer has disputed the allegations.

On ExpressNews.com: Bexar DA to recuse office from prosecuting San Antonio attorney Martin Phipps harassment case

In January, Mayes and five other law firm employees gave Phipps a letter demanding immediate measures to cure the hostile work environment, according to a copy obtained by the Express-News. Days later, Mayes resigned, alleging that Phipps appeared to be part of a scheme to defraud several creditors, according to another letter obtained by the newspaper.

Phipps law firm was one of two in San Antonio hired in 2017 by Bexar County to sue opioid drug manufacturers and distributors alleged to be responsible for contributing to the citys addiction epidemic. He owns Paramour, a rooftop River Walk bar in the building that houses his firm.

Mayes served on numerous civic boards, hosted KLRNs On The Record, and is a former chief of staff to both Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff and to Mayor Ron Nirenberg when Nirenberg was a City Council member.

Phipps cited various social media posts allegedly made by Mayes in seeking the temporary protective order in April. They included one sent to a Phipps law firm employee that said, Tell Martin that I have some new homies from Juarez. If anything happens to me or (name redacted), they know what to do, Phipps said in an affidavit.

Lawyers for Phipps and Mayes tried to work out the pairs differences before the latest application was withdrawn. Ortiz said there were some items requested that he couldnt agree to, including Phipps acknowledging that Mayes didnt do anything wrong.

Staff writer Elizabeth Zavala contributed to this report.

pdanner@express-news.net
A San Antonio loan officer involved in the storming of the U.S. Capitol has pleaded guilty to a federal misdemeanor.

Matthew Carl Mazzocco, 37, is the first San Antonio resident charged in the Jan. 6 breach to admit his guilt.

His lawyer, Robbie Ward of San Antonio, struck a plea deal on Mazzoccos behalf with federal prosecutors in Washington, records show.

Mazzocco pleaded guilty to illegally parading, demonstrating or picketing in the Capitol building, a misdemeanor.

In exchange, prosecutors dropped other misdemeanor charges against him. He remains free on bond pending sentencing on Oct. 4.

He faces up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $5,000, records show.

On ExpressNews.com: Case of San Antonio man charged in Capitol riot to be heard in D.C.

On Jan. 6, supporters of former President Donald Trump breached the Capitol in an effort to prevent lawmakers inside from certifying the Electoral College results showing Joe Biden had won the 2020 election. The mob overwhelmed police officers. Court records said the mob caused damages to the building that cost more than $1.4 million to repair.

In a recent interview on Fox News, Trump called the rally a love fest that was a beautiful thing.

Mazzocco admitted he was among those who illegally entered the Capitol. He walked through a conference room and various hallways, and he knew he was there illegally, his plea paperwork said.

He also told others not to destroy anything, and that they were probably going to get in trouble for what they were doing, his plea deal documents said.

Mazzocco was identified after posting photos of himself to his personal Facebook page. One picture is a selfie just outside the Capitol building along with the caption the capital (sic) is ours!

Before his arrest at his Stone Oak home earlier this year, he was called out in a TikTok video by a user who shared his name, photo and workplace.

Mazzocco was employed as a loan officer with Synergy One Lending Inc., but the company said it fired him.

guillermo.contreras@express-news.net | Twitter: @gmaninfedland
The unions representing San Antonio park and airport police officers landed a win Wednesday in their fight for collective bargaining rights.

In a memorandum opinion, the Fourth Court of Appeals ruled that the San Antonio Park Police Officers Association had the grounds to file a lawsuit against the city of San Antonio.

The city had argued that it had governmental immunity, effectively protecting it from the lawsuit. A trial court had ruled against the city, prompting the city to appeal.

Wednesdays ruling comes nearly two years after the unions representing airport and park police first filed the lawsuit in state district court, arguing that the city failed to recognize park and airport police as members of the San Antonio Police Department.

While airport and park police have the same law enforcement authority as SAPD officers  and they both report to Police Chief William McManus  they receive considerably fewer benefits. In addition, the unions representing park and airport officers arent part of the police unions collective bargaining agreement. Instead, they have negotiated with the city under a meet-and-confer system.

Ricky Poole, a local attorney who represented the officers, lauded the ruling Wednesday, which was made by a three-judge panel.

The Fourth Court did the right thing, and were happy the decision came out the way it did, Poole said.

The Fourth Court has remanded the case to the trial court. At that point, the city and unions can agree to settle the lawsuit. Or, they can argue the allegations at the heart of the case  in other words, whether airport and park police officers should be considered members of the SAPD.

Alternatively, the city can appeal the ruling to all seven justices on the Fourth Court, or they can appeal to the Texas Supreme Court.

Liz Provencio, first assistant city attorney, said its too soon to say how the city will proceed.

On ExpressNews.com: San Antonio park and airport police sue to get pay equity with SAPD officers

While the Fourth Court was solely making a decision on whether the lawsuit could advance, it did say that the allegations they reviewed, if true, showed that park and airport police officers were police officers under Chapter 174 of the Local Government Code.

Chapter 174, which was adopted by local voters in 1974, gives officers with the San Antonio Police Department the right to collectively bargain with the city on compensation and other benefits.

Previously, park police were under the citys Parks and Recreation Department and airport police were under the San Antonio International Airport. In 2009, they were transferred under the police chiefs supervision.

While airport and park police are both certified by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement  the state agency charged with licensing and training police  and they can both issue citations and make arrests, they receive considerably fewer benefits than SAPD officers.

Based on the average five-year officer salary, park and airport police officers get paid about a third less than SAPD officers, according to city data. SAPD officers also have better benefits and a better pension plan.

The responsibilities and the roles of these officers  whether they are official SAPD or park police or airport police  in many cases, they are doing the same job and have the same responsibilities, but they are being treated very differently, Poole said.

The city has argued that training requirements for park and airport police are considerably lower than they are for SAPD officers. Park and airport police must complete a basic peace officer course, which is around three months. SAPD officers go through an eight-month stint at the San Antonio Police Training Academy.

Moving forward, Poole said, he hopes the city will start collective bargaining negotiations with the airport and park police.

Airport and park police officers have been without a contract since Oct. 1, 2019, when their last agreement expired. Their contract did not have an evergreen clause that kept the provisions in force once negotiations stalled  clauses that both the police and fire unions have in their contracts.

The City recognized the San Antonio Park Police Officers Association under meet and confer over a decade ago and is open to continue that process, Provencio said in a statement.

Poole said the city has continued to offer officers the same pay and benefits since 2019. Still, he said it was essential that they get the right to collectively bargain moving forward.

While the city hasnt substantially changed any of their rights, they still have far fewer rights than SAPD officers have under collective bargaining, Poole said. We need to get them that right.

eeaton@express-news.net
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz is facing backlash after he said that undocumented immigrants are to blame for rising COVID-19 cases in South Texas.

Cruz, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined fellow Republicans on Wednesday to call on the Biden administration to address the record surge of illegal crossings along the Texas-Mexico border that began in the spring.

Cruz called the rise in crossings a humanitarian, national security and public health crisis and urged the Biden administration to preserve Title 42, a rule put in place by former President Donald Trump that refuses asylum-seekers entry on the basis of public health.

On ExpressNews.com: 'The worst we've seen': Migrant influx overwhelms Southwest Texas border counties

Most of these illegal immigrants coming in havent been vaccinated, Cruz said. Theyre being put in cages with other people who are COVID-positive; theyre spreading COVID and then releasing COVID in our communities. This is lunacy.

COVID-19 cases are rising again in the U.S. after months of decline, with the number of new cases per day nearly doubling over the past three weeks, driven by the fast-spreading delta variant, lagging vaccination rates and Fourth of July gathers.

Just 43.4 percent of Texans have received the vaccine. The state is 37th in the nation for vaccinated residents.

On ExpressNews.com: Ted Cruz mocked for blasting Democrats who fled Texas

Some on Twitter said Cruz was spreading misinformation. Others accused Cruz of racism and suggested that his rhetoric is similar to what was used in the past to justify violence against minority groups.

Nicholas Christakis is the Sterling professor of social and natural science at Yale. Christakis, a physician, authored Apollo's Arrow: The Profound and Enduring Impact of Coronavirus on the Way We Live, a look at how the coronavirus pandemic changed the way we live.

In 1347, Jews were blamed for bubonic plague, Christakis wrote on Twitter. In the 1990s, gays were blamed for HIV. In 2020, immigrants are blamed for COVID. The weak-minded desire to blame outsiders for epidemics goes back millennia. And so this man should be deeply ashamed.

Another Twitter user said: a prerequisite of genocide is literally blaming an ethnicity for the spread of diseases, and were past the point of prerequisites.

Shannon Watts is the founder of Moms Demand Action, a group fighting for gun reforms.

On August 2, it will be two years since a gunman  motivated by racism  drove nine hours to El Paso to shoot and kill immigrants, Watts said. Ted Cruz knows full well that his dangerous rhetoric puts a target on the back of every brown person in Texas.

Tejano and conjunto alternative artist Veronique Medrano, who lives in San Antonio, lambasted Cruz.

"Gurrl the farthest South you've come is to go to Cancun, Medrano said. So please STOP talking about South Texas. You don't know a thing about this area other than getting on a BP boat for THEATRICS or using it for your conservatives to paint the border like some war zone when it's not.

Cruz on Wednesday also urged U.S. lawmakers to pass a proposed piece of legislation that aims to codify Title 42 into law. Thats because, he said, the situation along the border has worsened. He also lambasted Biden for halting construction of the border wall and other issues.

Were in a pandemic, Cruz said. Joe Biden likes to talk about what a priority he puts on the pandemic.

Cruz suggested that if Biden were to end Title 42 that COVID positivity rates would skyrocket.

We're seeing COVID positivity rising in Laredo. We're seeing COVID positivity rising in San Antonio, Cruz said. Just yesterday, I spoke with the mayor of Uvalde, Texas, who said as a result of the illegal immigrants being released  in Uvalde they're seeing COVID positivity spiking up. And Biden wants to release even more COVID positive illegal immigrants. This is lunacy.

Timothy.Fanning@express-news.net
The scene was a bit chaotic. One kid was begging for a Gatorade, another wanted help with her elaborate costume for the evening, and the third looked bored.

It was dinnertime in the summertime, when nieces and nephews visit for extended periods. They love San Antonio; but to be honest, I think they love getting away from their parents more.

As their great-aunt, its my job to entertain them with visits to college campuses, good films, museums and the citys newest murals and public art.

New experiences come with the old, such as the citys historic missions and the Tower of the Americas. The Time Life Building never disappoints, and the Frost Bank Towers addition to the skyline has received rave reviews.

If you dont have children but have the privilege of serving as aunt or uncle, such treasured moments also offer momentary glimpses into the exhausting, rewarding, exasperating and emotional job of parenthood.

Ive seen them grow into young adults as the summers tick by all too quickly. Ive seen them make good choices, along with poor ones.

The youngest, not yet ready to travel without parents, are making plans for future summers. One of them, 6-year-old Lana, has made her intentions known.

I want to come live with you in San Antonio, she said.

Summers offer another appeal for young visitors. Chores are rewarded with cash. So air-conditioning vents have been cleaned and furniture dusted.

Its hit and miss, though. Floors dont always get a fine sweeping, but my yard has fewer weeds, for sure. A lot of supervision is involved.

Tuesday nights family dinner featured freshly made flour tortillas made by 15-year-old Dee. Slathered in butter, they were served as an appetizer.

She and her 17-year-old brother, Albert, sauteed asparagus and Brussels sprouts, which they grudgingly tasted.

The evening culminated with loteria, which they call chalupa. Winners received prizes, including books, a cooking magazine, notepads and sketch paper. My goddaughter Emma may have been the happiest, winning a desk ping pong set from a dollar store.

Its easy to cope with exhaustion during these summer visits. Falling asleep comes easier, and theres always someone to do the dishes and help make grocery-store runs.

Its more challenging to listen to the emotional challenges they face. Teen anxiety, school pressures, young love and heartbreak are real.

Part of me wants to show up at their schools and have pointed talks with a few bullies, one of them a member of the family.

But theres lots of laughter and love, especially as theyve interacted with our youngest, 1-year-old Mateo. When he finally agrees to be held, its magic.

Studies suggest additional parent-like relationships are good for children, especially grandparents. My nieces and nephews are blessed with supportive, hilarious grandparents, the latter trait being the most beneficial in my book.

Fewer studies have been done on the impact of aunts and uncles, but early research shows they contribute to the well-being of their nieces and nephews. It not just financial (movies, restaurants and museums dont come cheap). They serve as additional sounding boards and offer safe places to vent.

Theres some evidence aunts and uncles also can play critical roles in socioeconomic attainment through other compensation, what a study described as the avoidance of low pay and avoidance of marginalization.

Studies may not yet reflect how important they are to us.

Last Saturday, we saw Adan Medranos film, Truly Texas Mexican during the 42nd annual CineFestival at the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center. The sold-out show attracted the citys Chicano and Chicana intelligentsia.

Available on Amazon, Google TV and Apple TV, the documentary isnt just about the history of food in South Texas and Northern Mexico but about cultural resistance and the role of women in culinary history.

It makes the distinction between American Tex-Mex food and what Medrano calls Texas Mexican, the native, indigenous cuisine on both sides of the border. The film is based on his best-selling book, Truly Texas Mexican: A Native Culinary Heritage in Recipes.

Dee and Albert sat quietly and watched. Afterward, Dee said, I am indigenous! It was prize enough for me to make up for the brain fog and fatigue.

When this visit wraps up, their parents will meet me in Corpus Christi for the child exchange.

Then the last young visitor, 12-year-old Kristopher, will start his own summer adventure in San Antonio.

eayala@express-news.net
WASHINGTON  Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said Thursday that he would not end a controversial Immigration and Customs Enforcement program in which local law enforcement agencies screen jailed suspects to identify those who are in the country illegally.

Gonzalez, President Joe Bidens pick to lead ICE, made the comment at his Senate confirmation hearing in an effort to defuse Republican criticism that immigration enforcement would slip on his watch.

As Harris County sheriff, Gonzalez scrapped the countys partnership with ICE. He said Thursday that it would not be his intent to replicate that move nationally. He cast it as a purely local decision, in keeping with a strategic and thoughtful approach to immigration enforcement.

Gonzalez is one of two Texans nominated to key posts in the Biden administration who appeared before the Senate Homeland Security Committee. The other was Robert Santos, a San Antonio native nominated to lead the Census Bureau. Both are expected to win Senate confirmation without serious opposition.

On ExpressNews.com: Close-up look at Robert Santos, Bidens nominee to lead Census Bureau

Santos, who is Mexican American, would be the first person of color to lead the federal governments largest statistical agency full time. He stressed the importance of collecting accurate data on an increasingly diverse nation.

Census Bureau data help weave us together to form a more perfect union, Santos told the senators.

The two nominees offer a clear illustration of Bidens sharp departure from former President Donald Trump on immigration.

ICE in many ways was the face of Trumps strict approach. Gonzalez is expected to take it in an entirely different direction, working to build a more humane enforcement agency.

Santos would lead an agency that many say Trump politicized by attempting to add a citizenship question to the standard census form and by considering the use of census data to target immigrants in the country illegally.

If confirmed, both men would face a difficult task rebuilding trust in the federal government on the part of immigrant communities and boosting morale at two agencies with notably disgruntled workforces.

The vast majority of the senators questions Thursday were directed at Gonzalez, a Democrat who as sheriff has been a critic of the agency he now is nominated to lead.

Republican senators grilled Gonzalez over his decision to end the countys partnership with ICE. They also questioned him about a steep decline in ICE arrests under the Biden administration and about its enforcement policies, which Texas and other states are challenging in court.

Gonzalez said the low number of ICE arrests was concerning but added that ICE agents have latitude to go after anyone dangerous, even though the administration has explicitly targeted only those convicted of violent felonies or who are seen as threats to national security.

BACKGROUND: A more humane ICE? Biden looks to Harris County Sheriff Gonzalez for reform

Public safety is always my North Star, said Gonzalez, who was elected sheriff in 2016. The American dream relies upon the rule of law and a functioning legal immigration system.

Gonzalez once called the ICE partnership with Harris County illegal racial profiling, and in 2019 he took to social media to criticize ICE raids, which he said threaten to deport millions of undocumented immigrants, the vast majority of whom do not represent a threat to the U.S.

I am concerned from our conversation about whether it would be appropriate for you to lead an agency that youve been so critical of, said U.S. Sen. Rob Portman of Ohio, the top Republican on the homeland security committee.

Gonzalez said he believes in the agencys mission and would be aggressive in going after people who posed a threat to public safety.

But he also made clear he would seek to carry out the humane immigration system that Biden has promised to create. Gonzalez said he ended the ICE partnership with Harris County in part so sheriffs deputies would preserve the ability to work cooperatively with a diverse immigrant community.

Asked by Sen. Ron Johnson, a Wisconsin Republican, whether a 15-, 16-, 17-year-old immigrant male would certainly fit the profile of somebody who might be in a gang, Gonzalez replied: At the end of the day, theyre still teenagers.

Im always mindful of not profiling and developing any stereotypes, he said.

Its unclear whether Gonzalez will be able to win over any Republicans. Stephen Miller, a former Trump adviser who guided that administrations immigration policy, has called Gonzalez an anti-ICE zealot and tweeted this week that a vote for Gonzalez is a vote to protect criminal illegals & punish Americans.

Presidential nominees need only 51 votes in the Senate to be confirmed. The two parties each control 50 votes in the Senate, but as president of the chamber, Vice President Kamala Harris, a Democrat, can break ties.

IN-DEPTH: What to know about the San Antonio native tapped to lead U.S. Census Bureau

Santos appeared to face less skepticism from Republicans.

In a series of calm exchanges, senators asked how he would boost morale at the Census Bureau and whether he would change how the bureau seeks information about race and ethnicity.

Santos suggested opening up new research areas and offering flexible remote work options as ways to keep the bureaus workforce happy.

He acknowledged that the census director doesnt control the questions the bureau asks. But he said he would use his personal perspective as a Latino, as well as his research experience, to combine race and ethnicity questions where possible.

The Census Bureau currently asks whether respondents are of Hispanic origin, then asks their race; the options are white, Black, Native American, Asian and some other race. There has been a movement to combine the questions because many Latinos struggle to answer the second question about race.

Santos addressed the issue in 2019, telling a Texas television station: When I fill out the census form, I check the Latino-Hispanic-Mexican American box  And when it comes to race, I mark other and insert mestizo because thats how I feel about race and ethnicity.

Santos did have one tense exchange on Thursday  over delays in the release of 2020 population data because of the COVID-19 pandemic. States use the decennial population numbers to redraw congressional and legislative districts. Texas will gain two U.S. House seats as a result of population growth, bringing the states total to 38.

Portman pressed Santos to commit to releasing the population data by mid-August, as ordered by a court. Santos said he didnt have enough information to make a commitment but was confident the bureau would make the deadline.

The answer wasnt what Portman was hoping for.

I wish you would just commit today to adhering to this deadline. Thats the least you can do, Portman said.

Santos is president of the American Statistical Association and vice president and chief methodologist at the Washington, D.C.-based Urban Institute, a think tank that conducts economic and social policy research.

In his opening statement to the committee, Santos spoke of his roots in the barrios of my native San Antonio.

He grew up just south of Woodlawn Lake in San Antonio and attended Little Flower Catholic School and Holy Cross High School. His parents both worked at Kelly AFB.

He studied at San Antonio Community College before earning a bachelors degree in mathematics from Trinity University in 1976. He later obtained a masters degree in statistics from the University of Michigan.

The values instilled in me in these schools are foundational to my leadership, Santos said.

The committee adjourned Thursday without voting on either nominee.

ben.wermund@chron.com
Republican Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush is suing the Biden administration for halting border wall construction, claiming a state-owned farm in Starr County has been transformed into a superhighway of illegal activity without that protection.

The suit, filed in federal court in McAllen on Tuesday, argues that the administration lacks the authority to block congressionally approved legislation that signed off on the construction of the barrier. It seeks for the court to declare the actions illegal and order the administration to restore the funding.

The legal result of Bidens proclamation is the unconstitutional withholding of appropriations, the suit reads. The practical result is a humanitarian crisis on the southern border at a scale never before seen in the history of this country.

FACT CHECK: George P. Bush claims 150 miles of border wall were built under Trump

Suing the Biden administration is a page out of the book of Attorney General Ken Paxton, whom Bush is challenging in the Republican primary. Paxton recently bragged at the Conservative Political Action Conference about filing 11 such suits so far this year.

The border wall must continue to keep our communities secure, defend our farmers, and support our border patrol, Bush said in a Facebook post announcing the lawsuit. President (Joe) Biden's actions to stop construction are illegal, unconstitutional and completely unjustified.

The Department of Justice, which represents the federal government in court, declined to comment.

According to the suit, U.S. Customs and Border Protection had already built a portion of the wall to the west of the 3,099-acre farm, and the agency was in negotiations with the General Land Office about acquiring 41 acres to extend the segment by 2 miles to protect the farm.

All of that was put to a halt when on Jan. 20, Bidens first day in office, he issued a proclamation that stopped all border wall projects.

RIVALS ON THE BALLOT, CO-DEFENDANTS IN COURT: Just as Paxton vs. Bush GOP primary matchup takes shape, they're co-defendants in civil court

The suit includes a screenshot of video surveillance at the farm, depicting more than a dozen migrants walking through a field.

By night, literal caravans of illegal immigrants descend upon the GLO Farm, the suit says. They stream across at a rate of roughly 1,500 per week, where they are frequently apprehended in groups of 50 to 100 or larger and taken away by the busload.

The suit describes a chaotic atmosphere at the farm, one with ever-present law enforcement patrols and buses stationed nearby waiting to take away migrants, that has impacted daily operations.

Essential farm activities, such as the sorting of crops, can no longer be carried on at night due to security concerns, it states.

The increased criminal activity has also diminished the marketability and value of the farm, the suit says.

Further, the suit blames Biden for creating a national security, public health and humanitarian crisis, citing CBP data showing that Border Patrol apprehensions were up 675 percent from 23,237 encounters in May 2020 to 180,034 in May 2021.

READ THE LAWSUIT: Texas GLO v. Biden

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas has emphasized that surges of migrants at the border are not new.

We have experienced migration surges before  in 2019, 2014, and before then as well, Mayorkas said in a statement in March.

Data from Customs and Border Patrol shows that there was a similar spike of 144,116 apprehensions in May 2019.

Its unclear how a June report from the federal Government Accountability Office will factor into the case, if at all.

Congressional investigators concluded in that report that the administration had not canceled the funds but rather implemented programmatic delays, which they said is permitted by federal law dealing with the budget process.

The federal government has shown that the use of funds is delayed in order to perform environmental reviews and consult with various stakeholders, as required by law, and determine project funding needs in light of changes that warrant using funds differently than initially planned, the report found.

Congressional Republicans have decried the report as politically biased.

GAO's decision today makes clear that there are two sets of rules when it comes to executing funds appropriated by Congress: one for Democrat administrations and one for Republican administrations, Sens. Richard Shelby and Shelley Moore Capito said in a joint statement.

GLO spokeswoman Rachel Jones said in a statement that the GAO is not the ultimate decider of the constitutionality of the law.

The GAO did not have the evidence that we will present in front of a federal judge, she said. We're confident the court will rule in our favor once it sees all the evidence and hears both sides of the argument.

taylor.goldenstein@chron.com
CHESHIRE  Plans to demolish a high-end, single-family home on Wallingford Road and build nearly three-dozen age restricted town houses at the site is infuriating neighbors.

Nearly two-dozen speakers urged the town Planning and Zoning Commission to reject the age-restricted complex being proposed for 648 Wallingford Road by a Southington builder, Lovley Development. The public hearing on the project this week, the second one held this summer, was extended until the PZCs next meeting July 26.

Lovley Development has proposed 34 townhouse units on 10 aces of property owned by Earl Kurtz Jr., father of PZC Chairman Earl Kurtz III. The younger Kurtz has recused himself from any decisions regarding the application.

If the application were to be approved, the existing 10-room, 21/2-story brick house would be demolished to make way for the age-restricted units.

Neighbors concerns included the likelihood of increased traffic through the neighborhood, a reduction in their property values and increased rainwater runoff from the development exacerbating flooding of nearby basements.

The development is near the intersection of Wallingford and Talmadge roads, which frequently are used by motorists to get from Route 68 to South Main Street in Cheshire. The intersection of Route 68 and Route 10, of which South Main Street is a part, is one of the busiest in town.

Robert Giza, who lives at 860 Wallingford Road, said even without the development in place, traffic on this road is terrible, its getting out of hand.

Michele Fredericks, who lives at 35 Carol Drive, said she moved from southern Cheshire because the neighborhood was quiet compared to her previous home.

But this influx of traffic is causing the neighborhood to lose some of its luster, Fredericks said. Im afraid to go walking along the road with my grandson.

PVZ Vice Chairman Sean Strollo, currently serving as chairman because of Kurtzs absence, said because of a request Giza had made at a previous hearing, Cheshire police recently measured speeds along Wallingford Road near the proposed development. The officers found one driver going 85 mph.

Talmadge Road resident Thomas Santoro said the elder Kurtz has a right to sell his property if that sale meets certain parameters, but that if the PZC approves the age-restricted complex as the application now stands, its members would be violating an implied contract with neighbors.

When I bought my property, I bought it with certain expectations that our zoning would protect my rights as a property owner, he said.

Santoro said the plans for the age-restricted complex represents a transfer of wealth from everyone who lives in the neighborhood to just one or two people.

The starting price for a townhouse in the development would be $454,000.

Chris Plumley, who lives on Sir Walter Raleigh Drive, said he doesnt doubt need for this type of housing in the community.

But this development just doesnt fit on this property, Plumley said

Anthony Fazzone, the Cheshire attorney representing Lovley Devlopment, said the developer already has made concessions, including reducing the size of the project from 40 units to 34.

The company already has successfully developed two-age restricted complexes in neighboring communities.

luther.turmelle@hearstmediact.com
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in North Carolina:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

North Carolina is one of several states that enacted a moratorium last year halting eviction proceedings. The directive from Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper is set to expire on June 30. Cooper extended other COVID-19 restrictions earlier this month, but he has not yet announced whether hell extend the eviction moratorium.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

North Carolinas Housing Opportunities and Prevention of Evictions (HOPE) program offers rent and utility assistance to low-income renters in 88 of the smallest counties in the state. Twelve larger counties are managing their own programs.

North Carolina has set aside roughly $1.3 billion to help tenants cover their housing and utility costs, with nearly $1 billion going to the HOPE program and $300 million to the 12 larger counties.

The state estimates it has awarded a total of about $171 million to 47,462 households that qualify for the HOPE program but does not have data on households served and money spent thus far from the 12 county programs.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Eviction hearings are expected to be increasingly handled in person as more of the state reopens. Tenants rights advocates and realtors groups anticipate an uptick in hearings once the moratorium expires. North Carolinians can still be evicted now for reasons unrelated to nonpayment of rent, such as property destruction.

WHAT IS THE AFFORDABILITY IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Demand greatly outpaces supply in many of North Carolinas rental markets, stemming from a shortage in affordable housing. Cathy Robertson, chair of the property management division for the North Carolina Association of Realtors and vice president of a Winston-Salem-based property management company overseeing 800 housing units, said she sees somewhere between eight and 12 applicants for every one property T.E. Johnson & Sons posts online.

We have the lowest inventory in history, and thats a long history of our company, Robertson said of the company that has served the Winston-Salem area since 1928.

U.S. Census data shows the median monthly gross residential rent in the state was $931 in 2019, up by 6% from 2015. Over that same five-year stretch, rent rose in urban areas by 12% in Wake County, 13% in Mecklenburg County and 14% in Durham County.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Its difficult to say how much homelessness is likely to increase, though there are some data points that suggest a substantial rise may soon be on the horizon.

According to the most recent U.S. Census Bureau Household Pulse Survey, nearly 1 in 10 North Carolina tenants have no confidence theyll be able to make next months rent. Survey data shows 30% of respondents believe it is either somewhat likely or very likely that they will be evicted from their home by early August.

Legal Aid of North Carolina, a nonprofit law firm that helps low-income renters facing the threat of eviction, has 12 workers who now take more than 2,000 calls a day, a four-fold increase in typical call volume before the pandemic. About 70% of the calls they receive are coming from tenants seeking help on housing matters. The organization expects legal assistance needs to only increase as the eviction moratorium deadline approaches and more people get sent to court for eviction hearings.

___

Follow Anderson on Twitter at https://twitter.com/BryanRAnderson.

___

Anderson is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland tossed a Trump administration policy Thursday that barred immigration judges from putting off the deportation cases of immigrants waiting on green cards and visas.

Garland overruled a decision by then-Attorney General Jeff Sessions that judges could not temporarily shelve those cases  a practice known as administrative closure.

Immigration judges, who are employees of Garland's Department of Justice, said the practice helps them manage their dockets more efficiently by letting them focus on cases that are ready to go to court and avoid dragging in immigrants and attorneys for unnecessary hearings. That's critical in a backlogged system where immigrants already wait years to get a court date.

It helps us clear our dockets so we're dealing with cases that are really ready for hearings, said Immigration Judge Dana Leigh Marks, president emerita and executive vice president of the National Association of Immigration Judges.

For many immigrants, administrative closure was seen as a lifeline that shielded them from deportation while they awaited word on their applications for legal status from other agencies, such as green cards or other visas. Critics said immigration judges too often let people stay in the country longer than they should in a sort of legal purgatory.

The decision is one of several recent Biden administration reversals of former President Donald Trumps immigration policies. Last month, Garland ended two policies that made it harder for immigrants fleeing violence to qualify for asylum.

In the decision on immigration judges, Garland wrote that three federal appeals courts had already rejected Sessions 2018 policy, saying the judges had the authority to decide how they wanted to handle cases. The Justice Department, which runs the immigration courts, is making rules related to administrative closure and will allow the practice in the meantime, the attorney general wrote.

During the Trump administration, the number of cases in the immigration courts surged, partly as some of the hundreds of thousands of cases that had been put on hold were added back on the court calendar following Sessions decision.

Since the 2018 fiscal year, the number of cases pending in the immigration courts has risen 74%, to 1.3 million, according to data from the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse at Syracuse University.

Gene Hamilton, a key architect of many of Trump's immigration policies who served in the Justice Department, said he believes Garland's decision will let immigrants stay in the country indefinitely despite facing deportation.

But immigration judges said they can only use the practice in a limited number of cases and that it makes the courts more efficient, not less. Without it, some immigrants have wound up filing applications for asylum or appeal simply to buy more time while waiting on their green card application, Marks said.

It clutters up the system with unnecessary filings and unnecessary hearings, she said.

The move also restores autonomy to the country's immigration judges over how they manage their dockets, said Jeremy McKinney, president elect of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. Immigration judges clashed repeatedly with the Trump administration, decrying measures they said limited their independence.

To say the immigration judges never possessed this power was simply ridiculous, McKinney said.

___

Taxin reported from Orange County, California.
AHDB has secured 3.9m of funding to help farmers navigate the fallout of the loss of direct payments and help future proof their businesses.

The levy board is one of 19 organisations who have gained government funding to support producers who are in receipt of BPS payments.

The Future Farming Resilience Fund was developed to provide support to farmers to help them navigate the agricultural transition, opening in August.

AHDBs support service will use a new farm business review tool to help around 4,000 grazing livestock producers and cereal and oilseed growers in England.

The tool is aimed at providing an understanding of the implications of direct payments disappearing and what they can do to replace that lost income.

It will help farmers identify how, where and when they may need to adapt their business model, access support to address these changes and help them to become more resilient.

The service will be coordinated nationally by AHDB and delivered via a network of local agricultural advisers and consultants working directly with farmers.

Further one-to-one support will be given to around 600 of those participating on a first come, first served basis, AHDB explained.

Steve Dunkley, AHDB Head of Business said: We are delighted to have secured funding to help farmers who are affected by the phasing out of direct payments work towards securing a prosperous future for their business.

Our research has shown that 76% of beef and sheep farmers and 67% of cereal growers are not planning on making changes in the face of current policy changes or are adopting a wait-and-see approach.

"This funding will enable us to help 4,000 farmers and growers take a proactive approach to the biggest policy shift that they will face in their careers."

He said AHDB was particularly keen to work with those businesses that were more reliant on direct payments and more likely to be impacted by the loss of subsidies.

"We can help them assess the potential impact of the changes, work out how to address the challenges and put in place a succession plan for the future," Mr Dunkley added.
A new scheme worth 200,000 has launched in Scotland aiming to showcase local producers and their food and drink products.

The Regional Food Fund (RFF) has been unveiled to help regional food and drink ventures recover from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

It aims to help producers and event organisers from across Scotland showcase their high-quality products.

A total of 42 grants of up to 5,000 have been made to stimulate creative, innovative and collaborative projects.

Ventures include a regional food group of more than 30 businesses in Argyll and Bute where funding will support the growth of off-island sales.

While in Fife, the Bowhouse market will expand to help more local food and drink producers gain access to an alternative route to market.

The grants were announced by Scotland's rural affairs secretary Mairi Gougeon during a visit to the Shetland Rural Centre in Lerwick.

She said a combination of Covid-19 and Brexit had dealt a 'significant blow' to many of Scotland's food and drink producers.

"Recognising this, we doubled the initial funding to 200,000 to help more projects," Ms Gougeon explained.

We know that consumers are increasingly interested in where their food comes from and are looking for high welfare and production standards, as well as taking into account environmental issues including food miles and are increasingly buying local.

These collaborative projects will also showcase the incredible range of food and drink produced in Scotland and deliver unique and memorable eating and drinking experiences.

The fund will provide support to 42 collaborative projects and initiatives that will contribute to the recovery and growth of the food and drink sector.
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Gov. Jim Justice, somewhat belatedly, has come around to admit that the states vaccination effort has hit a wall and that, at its current pace, we will not reach herd immunity anytime soon.
Next Story : Makeup 101: Concealing Correctly With Palak Bhandari

The winding stairwell of Hotel Martinez, Cannes, has grail status when it comes to picturesque backdrops. Leaning against its balustrades for her high-wattage appearance on the opening night of the Cannes Film Festivalthis time around is fashion influencer Masoom Minawala-Mehta. She is making her Angelina Jolie-inspired-leg-barring dreams come true in this yellow, silk taffeta gown by Kosovo-based designer,Lia Stublla. The result: regardless of what the weather apps suggest, it is summer  at least on the gram  for the influencers one million followers.Image: Instagram Even though Cannes is not a casual event, Minawala-Mehta, who is walking the carpet for L'OrealIndia, has managed to inject fun into her dress thanks to itscolour. The pastel, egg yolk-inspired yellowis oddly reminiscent of Rihannas now-iconic Guo Pei-designed Met Gala outfit. Stylist Sanchi Gilanis understanding of restraint and thoughtfulness comes through in her decision to abandon unnecessary accoutrements, using only a pair of earrings and a la mode Prada heels that amplify the verticality of the silhouette. Overall, our trend takeaway  if Minawala-Mehtas ultra-sophisticated look is the reference  is simple; when it comes to nailing red carpet appearances, less is always, always, more.One of the very few Indian fashion influencers who can proudly flex her humongous social media following to attract mainstream big brands like Louis Vuitton and Christian Dior, Minawala-Mehtas to wear a smaller, lesser-known designer comes across as metaphorical. Think about it, there was a time when the red carpets of Cannes were inaccessible to anyone who did not wield celebritydom of a certain prowess. Lesser, even, if you are not a darling of the international media. In 2019, Minawala-Mehta became one of the handfuls of her kind  an influencer to represent a small, but mightily growing section of micro celebrities entirely comprising mavericks who have amassed brand endorsements simply because of their social media genius.While mainstream celebrities like Sonam Kapoor-Ahuja, Aishwarya Rai-Bachchan, Deepika Padukone , and Priyanka Chopra -Jonas  endlessly photographed and subjects of multitudes of clickbait listicles are visibly missing from the event, courtesyCOVID-related travel restrictions, micro celebrities like Minawala-Mehta are democratising fashion by turning up at these high-glam events, giving stage to smaller designers. Now, isntthat what influencing is all about, aside from the selfies, the style guides, and the trend how-tos?Stay tuned for more Cannes fashion sightings!Also Read: 5 things you need to know about the Cannes Festival
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Aamir Khan is currently in Ladakh shooting for his upcoming film Laal Singh Chaddha. The actor is in the village called Wakha in Ladakh where hes trying to complete his project. The people of Wakha were glad to have Aamir Khan in their village and decided to throw a reception party for him and the team of Laal Singh Chaddha.



Videos and pictures have gone viral from this reception party thrown by the people of Wakha in their traditional style. In these videos and pictures we see Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao dance to their traditional song and in their traditional clothes. The Ladakhi dresses worn by Kiran Rao and Aamir Khan in the video are called Koss and Sulma and they were seen performing the Ladakhi dance called Gomba Sumshak. Sweet! Check out the videos and the pictures to see what a cute moment it was indeed to see the village of Wakha celebrate with the team of Laal Singh Chadha.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Serap Varol (@serap_omur_varol)
"Pauls appointment is a central part of our growth strategy to increase our footprint and coverage across the UK."

Challenger lender Glenhawk has appointed Paul Gavin as a business development manager for the Midlands, North of England and Scotland.

Paul, who brings over 20 years of financial services experience, will be based in Manchester and will connect with intermediaries, professional introducers and direct clients across the regions.

Paul previously spent 11 years at the Bank of Ireland, where he was part of the team responsible for deleveraging a 5 billion loan book down to c. 500 million, prior to its transfer from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. He joins Glenhawk from HS Credit and has also held previous roles at Oblix capital and Amicus.

Since the start of the 2021, Glenhawk has grown its loan book outside of London by 82%.

Guy Harrington, CEO of Glenhawk, commented: Having expanded our product suite in response to unprecedented levels of borrower demand, Pauls appointment is a central part of our growth strategy to increase our footprint and coverage across the UK. His experience will enable us to roll out our new regulated and unregulated products in, where we see a clear opportunity to capture a larger share of the short-term lending market with Glenhawks tailored solutions.

Jamie Pritchard, sales director at Glenhawk, added: Having completed our first bridging loan in Scotland earlier this year on a high value residential property, we are now generating an increasingly large volume of enquiries from borrowers outside of our traditional core markets. Pauls local market intelligence and understanding of a borrowers property investment journey will be critical for us as we build the level of trust required to establish a market leading national business.


Premier of South Australia the Hon Steven Marshall MP has launched Agilex Biolabs' new $1.5m vaccine and immunobiology laboratory.

ADELAIDE, AUS, July 14, 2021 - (ACN Newswire) - Agilex Biolabs, Australia's largest and most technologically advanced regulated bioanalytical laboratory for clinical trials today announced that the Premier of South Australia the Hon Steven Marshall MP has launched its new $1.5m vaccine and immuno-biology laboratory. The facility, the most sophisticated in APAC, will attract biotechs and pharma from around the world for advanced clinical research.Over the past 2 years, Agilex Biolabs has invested more than $3.5m in technology and systems at the APAC headquarters in Adelaide.Premier of South Australia, Steven Marshall launched the new facility today, thanking Agilex Biolabs for investing in the State and creating jobs in this important sector."South Australia is the most liveable city in the country, and the third in the world and investment such as this continues to build on this," Premier Marshall said."This new facility certainly puts South Australia firmly on the global map for high-tech clinical research.""We have seen significant advances in vaccines and immunobiology in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and now the Agilex Biolabs' state-of-the-art facility offers the very latest in technology to support the further development of these new and emerging therapies targeting infections, cancer and genetic conditions."Minister for Trade and Investment Stephen Patterson who attended the launch with the Premier said the State Government had an ambitious plan to grow SA's Health and Medical Industries sector's contribution to the state's economy."As a government, we're working collaboratively with industry to more than double the HMI economic contribution to SA from $2.3 billion to $5 billion by 2030."South Australia is open for business and at the forefront of world-leading capabilities, bio-tech precincts and an academic research ecosystem that makes it the ideal place to invest and do business."Agilex Biolabs CEO Jason Valentine said the new laboratory focusses on new and emerging areas of therapeutic interest, including RNA vaccines, siRNA/miRNA clinical targets and gene therapy studies."This new facility adds digital droplet quantitative RT-PCR analysis for RNA, siRNA and miRNA clinical trials, including vaccines and gene therapy trials," he said."We are also installing an EliSPOT/FluoroSPOT multi-spot reader for vaccine studies to enable extrapolation of recall immune responses, which coupled with our state-of-the-art BD FACSymphony 5 laser, 20 colour flow cytometer, offers unparalleled sensitivity for immunology and vaccine trials."This Agilex Biolabs facility adds to the recent expansion of the small molecule/novel chemical entity laboratory and implementation of the latest 6500+ Sciex LC/MS/MS platforms to enable the development and validation of the highest sensitivity assays in the region for regulated bioanalysis.The laboratory will be completed in the next few months with international clients already booked to access the advanced technology and scientific excellence.Agilex Biolabs has more than 130 staff which includes 85 dedicated laboratory staff, and supports client pharma and biotech companies from US, Europe and APAC.The company offers services for both small molecules and biologics for PK, immunogenicity (PD) and biomarker bioanalysis utilising the two platforms of LC-MS/MS and Immunoassay.South Australian clinical research has remained open for business and Agilex Biolabs is a designated essential service so clients can be assured of study continuity.Book a confidential briefing with our scientists before you start your next clinical trial. https://calendly.com/agilexbiolabs/15minAbout Agilex Biolabs https://www.agilexbiolabs.com/Agilex Biolabs, Australia's leading bioanalytical and toxicology laboratory, has more than 24 years' experience in performing regulated bioanalysis, including quality method development, method validation and sample analysis services. It has successfully supported hundreds of preclinical and clinical trials from around the world where customers choose Australia for the streamlined regulatory process and access to the world's most attractive R&D rebate of more than 40% on clinical trial work conducted in Australia.Agilex Biolabs has the leading certifications including OECD GLP Recognition with NATA (Australian Government OECD GLP Compliance monitoring authority) and ISO 17025 Accreditation for global recognition. The company has recently acquired TetraQ biolabs and toxicology, and also expanded its main labs by more than 30% to accommodate biotech demand from APAC and the USA. Watch the new lab video walkthrough at https://youtu.be/WNdPGkdr9FA.Agilex Biolabs specialises in bioanalysis of small molecules and biologics for PK, immunogenicity, biomarkers and immunological pharmacodynamics assessments utilising LC-MS/MS, immunoassay (Mesoscale, Gyrolab, Luminex) and flow cytometry (BD FACSymphony A3, 20 colour cell analyser).Agilex offers pharmacodynamics services that include immunobiology services using the latest state-of-the-art technology to support immunology, cell biology and mode of action assays, including:- Immunophenotyping- Receptor occupancy- Cytokine release assays (whole blood or PBMC stimulation assays) and cytokine/biomarker profiling- PBMC assays and cellular mechanism of action assaysAgilex Biolabs Media Contact:Kate NewtonMedia@AgilexBiolabs.comSource: Agilex BiolabsCopyright 2021 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.




Vietnam, July 15, 2021 - (ACN Newswire) - Fundiin, the leading Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) service provider in Vietnam, has announced a strategic partnership with Sapo, a leading omnichannel commerce platform in Vietnam, to integrate a BNPL solution at checkout for over 100,000 merchant clients on the Sapo platform. Retail customers will have a smart and easy payment option which splits purchase amounts into three monthly installments at zero cost. Fundiin's BNPL solution can increase a retailer's sales by 30% without the need of a credit card or an application download.Vietnam has one of the fastest growing internet economies in Southeast Asia, with a growth rate of 36 percent in 2020 (Statista). Fundiin is backed by international venture capital investors, such as 1982 Ventures.The Vietnam retail sector was valued at USD 170 billion in 2020, and it is projected to register a CAGR of more than 10% from 2021 to2026. E-commerce is set to play a larger role in the economy and projected to grow at 29% CAGR through year 2025 (Google, Temasek and Bain, e-Conomy SEA 2020).Despite the COVID-19 crisis, Vietnam has managed GDP growth of nearly three percent. Ongoing urbanization and evolving consumer demand are fueling rapid expansion of ecommerce. Over 40% of Vietnam's digital consumers have come online due in part to COVID-19. Vietnam's government is supporting the trend and targeting online shopping to reach 50% market share of all commerce in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City by 2025. Officials also aim to reduce cash payments and are actively working to improve the regulatory framework for e-payments.Retailers are rapidly adopting solutions that can increase sales while reducing pressure on their consumers. Besides traditional sale promotions and free shipping, Fundiin's interest-free BNPL solution has proven to be a great budgeting tool for consumers and increases sales for retailers.Mr. Nguyen Anh Cuong, Co-founder and CEO of Fundiin, shares: "The Covid-19 pandemic created a wave of digital transformation and strong investment in omnichannel solutions for the retail industry. This shift to online shopping in Vietnam has created an urgent need for a simple and more affordable payment options for customers."Mr. Mai Van Tam, Director of Sapo Fin, shares: "With a deep understanding of the retail market, e-commerce and the recent change in consumer behavior, we believe that the Buy-Now-Pay-Later solution is an inevitable trend. Fundiin is the only company that meets Sapo's strict criteria in terms of technology, customer experience, as well as stability in operations. Our cooperation as two leading Vietnamese technology companies promises to generate significant value to our merchant clients and help retailers increase sales."Sapo is a leading omnichannel commerce platform in Vietnam, servicing more than 100,000 merchant clients. The cooperation between Fundiin and Sapo will help Sapo's 100,000 merchant clients increase sales up to 30% by integrating Fundiin's BNPL payment solution. Eligible merchants will provide customers the option to split their orders into three interest-free monthly installments, which can be done in seconds with one single photo of ID card, without the need of a credit card or any application download. Retailers will receive full value of orders upfront.About FundiinFundiin is the leading zero-cost Buy-Now-Pay-Later service provider in Vietnam, helping retailers increase sales by up to 30% by allowing end-consumers to pay in 3 interest-free monthly installments without need of credit card or app download. Fundiin is on mission to bridge the financial inclusion gap for the unbanked and underbanked population in Vietnam and Southeast Asia.About SapoSapo is a leading omnichannel commerce platform in Vietnam, servicing more than 100,000 merchant clients. Sapo provides retail businesses with an overall sales and management platform from online to offline including Sapo POS, Sapo Web, Sapo Social, Sapo Omnichannel.Contact Info:Nguyen Anh Cuong, CFAcuongna@fundiin.vn+84907465010Source: FUNDIINCopyright 2021 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.




MUNICH, July 14, 2021 - (JCN Newswire) - In the future, the Nuerburgring circuit could benefit from advanced artificial intelligence-supported safety features thanks to Fujitsu. A complex deployment of HD cameras, real-time AI analysis and instant alert systems mean that both RaceControl and drivers can be immediately notified of incidents on this challenging racetrack section - nicknamed the - green hell by Formula One driver Sir Jackie Stewart.The iconic Nordschleife (North Loop) is the most famous of the Nuerburgring's two racetracks. The 20.8-kilometer track features a total of 73 turns, including blind corners, drops and significant elevation changes - and is consequently considered by many to be one of the most challenging in the world. Historically, in the event of an incident, such as a vehicle leaving the track, race marshals relied on radio and communication with the marshals on the track to relay the information back to RaceControl and make decisions. In contrast to the Grand Prix circuit, the Nordschleife has not yet been equipped with cameras and is therefore out of sight from RaceControl. This meant it was often difficult to assess and react to issues quickly - and with up to several hundred vehicles simultaneously on the track, the stakes are high in making the right call.Rollout starts with a 2.8km test section at the Doettinger HoeheThe staged rollout plan for this ambitious track digitalization project has started with a 2.8km test section known as the "Doettinger Hoehe" with the installation of eight HD cameras by the Nuerburgring. In addition to the existing camera infrastructure on the Grand Prix circuit, coverage of the entire Nordschleife will require more than 100 cameras. However, the sheer number of cameras means the circuit cannot easily be monitored reliably by humans. The Fujitsu solution is based on cameras installed by the Nuerburgring, connected to RaceControl via fibre optic cables.To support the decision-making process, Fujitsu is developing an artificial intelligence system that leverages AI to monitor all the video feeds in real time, and flag any potential dangers it identifies. When potential issues are spotted, the system instantly notifies RaceControl and switches to the relevant video feeds while simultaneously giving the opportunity to notify approaching traffic, for example by using trackside LED displays.Joern Nitschmann, Head of Manufacturing and Automotive Central Europe at Fujitsu, comments: "The Nuerburgring has a well-earned reputation for being difficult to navigate, leading to the saying 'Everyone praises what the Nuerburgring tests'. This project certainly presented some challenges - including the need for continuous power and bandwidth in the middle of the Eifel mountains. However, the Nuerburgring's race safety expertise, combined with our experience specifying, developing and installing complex AI solutions, has proven to be the perfect co-creation team. Our collaboration transforms the safety of this notoriously difficult racetrack, by leveraging digital transformation expertise proven in other industries."Mirco Markfort, Nuerburgring Managing Director, says: "Racing events have been held at the Nuerburgring Nordschleife for almost one hundred years, and we've invested heavily over the years to maximize the safety of thousands of drivers who test their abilities here every year. Thanks to our cooperation with Fujitsu, drivers will be safer than ever. Not only do we have visibility over portions of the track for the first time, but artificial intelligence can also generate automated notifications in real-time. The first live test of the track infrastructure was at the legendary 24-hour endurance race held at the beginning of June. Now we are collecting data from the test sector, and continuing to develop the solution based on these insights. We are also planning to develop and roll out this revolutionary technology to the rest of the track."Fujitsu continues to develop the AI system - teaching it to recognize vehicles, and identify the different parts of the track and immediate surroundings including gravel, grass and guardrails. The AI is also being trained to detect anomalies on the track, such oil, dirt or debris, and to cope with weather conditions such as rain or shadows.For more information, visit bit.ly/2VLqlbT.Source: Fujitsu LtdCopyright 2021 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 14, 2021) - BioCure Technology Inc. (CSE: CURE) ("BioCure" or the "Company") announces that it has successfully closed a non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement") consisting of 6,706,525 Units at a price of $0.16 cents per Unit for gross proceeds of $1,073,044.00

Each Unit is comprised of one common share (the "Shares") and one share purchase warrant (the "Warrants") of the Company, where each whole Warrant entitles the holder to purchase an additional share for a period of two years from closing, at a price of $0.21 per Warrant share (the "Warrant Shares").

The Company has also agreed to pay a finder's fee of 8% in cash ("Finders Cash") and 8% in warrants ("Finder Warrants") for the proceeds raised by the finders ("Finders") in connection with the private placement. The Finder Warrants are on the same terms as the Purchaser Warrants. All finder fees are subject to CSE ("Exchange") approval.

The net proceeds from the non-brokered private placement are intended to be used for general working capital, research and development.

About Biocure

Biocure is a leading biotech company developing its CAR-T cell therapy for leukemia, lung, breast and pancreatic cancer. Biocure, headquartered in Korea, has joint venture partners in Asia and Europe with planned clinical trials commencing in 2021. Biocure is in the process of pre-clinical trials of five major biosimilar products in South Korea, including Interferon Beta 1b, PEG- Filgrastim as well as Ranibizumab. Interferon Beta 1b is used for treating relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis ("MS"). Filgrastim is used to treat neutropenia, a lack of certain white blood cells caused by bone marrow transplants, chemotherapy, and other conditions. Ranibizumab is used for treating macular degeneration. It is also used to treat a type of eye problem known as macular edema, as well as certain eye problems caused by diabetes.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

/S/ "SANG MOK LEE"

CEO and Director

For further information, please contact:

Biocure Technology Inc. Telephone: 604-609-7146, or info@biocuretech.com

Certain statements in this news release, which are not historical in nature, constitute "forward looking statements" within the meaning of that phrase under applicable Canadian securities law. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements or information concerning the Company's proposed activities under the Agreement and the expectations of the Company regarding funding payments due pursuant to the Agreement. These statements reflect management's current assumptions and expectations and by their nature are subject to certain underlying assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or events to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. Except as required pursuant to applicable securities laws, the Company will not update these forward looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. More detailed information about potential factors that could affect financial results is included in the documents filed from time to time with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities by the Company. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward looking statements. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE") nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada) 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/90282
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 14, 2021) - Cerrado Gold Inc. (TSXV: CERT) ("Cerrado" or the "Company") is pleased to announce further assay results from its Phase 2 drill program at the Serra Alta deposit at its Monte do Carmo Project located in Tocantins State, Brazil ("MDC"). Phase 2 started in late May targeting further extensional areas in Serra Alta and is also targeting adjacent satellite deposits aiming to better define the district potential. Phase 2 follows the successful completion of Phase 1 that focused on infill and extension drilling exclusively in the Serra Alta deposit, and which results are the basis for the resource update, expected for later this month. A new Preliminary Economic Assessment is expected to be completed in early August. The Company is reporting assay results from 9 drill holes (see tables 1 & 2), out of a total of 16 drill holes completed as of July 11 as part of Phase 2.

Drill Hole Highlights (All composites are reported as true thickness):

FSA-150

4.43m at 3.81 g/t Au, from 346.40m

FSA-151

5.84m at 6.00 g/t Au, from 189.04m including 2.93m at 10.16 g/t Au from 191.0m

10.77m at 2.83 g/t Au, from 205.60m

FSA-157

5.47m at 1.62 g/t Au, from 464.99m

FSA-159

41.65m at 2.51 g/t Au, from 69.75m including 11.33m at 6.86 g/t Au from 70.78m



Mark Brennan, CEO and Co-Chairman commented, "We are pleased with the ongoing drill results supporting our overall hypothesis for the potential at Serra Alta and the greater district scale opportunity we see to materially grow the scale of the Monte Do Carmo resource base. He continued, "We continue to await the updated resource estimate and Preliminary Economic Assessment for the Serra Alta deposit, which we believe should demonstrate a strong base from which to grow."

The Phase II drill program plan includes a total of 14,00m of drilling at the Serra Alta Deposit (Figure 1) and other satellites including Capitao, Fartura and Ferradura.

The assays results reported in this press release were received up until July 12, 2021, and the full extent of nine diamond drill holes, totaling 3,583m completed in Serra Alta. As of July 11, ten holes have been completed in Serra Alta extensional areas (assays pending for one hole), four drill holes have been competed in Capitao (with 2 additional ones in progress), and two holes have been completed in the Fartura Target (with one in progress). Assays results of the satellites targets are still pending.

Phase 1 results jointly with the ongoing resource update, has allowed the Company to refine considerably the understanding of the controls on mineralization including: host rock, proximity to intrusive contact zones, relevant hydrothermal alteration, and late offsetting structures. Quartz veins and gold mineralization tend to blossom along the granite contact with felsic volcanic and quartzites. The contact zone is segmented along strike by late faults that juxtapose blocks with different geometry and vein density. This empiric model is being applied in the drill planning and interpretation of early results in the new satellite target areas. District scale exploration started on the Capitao and Ferradura zones, currently the highest ranked targets outside Serra Alta in Cerrado's property holdings based upon historical data and recent surface work.

Serra Alta Assays Results

Most of the drill holes reported extended into zones beyond the current high-grade domain modeled in Serra Alta after the Phase 1 Results (see accompanying cross sections https://www.cerradogold.com/mdccrosssections) The high-grade domain volume effectively constrains the extent of the updated resource estimate currently being conducted by Micon International.

Drill hole FSA 149 and FSA-157 (drilled after deviated original hole FSA-153) were collared at the eastern half of the East Zone, fault bounded block, and successfully expanded laterally the boundaries of the gold mineralization. In both cases results show new parallel mineralized trends. Hole FSA-157 intercepted a new zone located 70m east of the current high-grade domain proving additional lateral extensional potential in the East zone. This extension reflects lateral continuity of the key geological controls, including high vein density and proximity to the intrusive contact zone between the hosting granite and the felsic volcanics/quartzites.

Drill hole FSA-159 was collared in the East Zone and drilled in the granite following a parallel trajectory to the intrusive contact between the granite and the felsic volcanic unit (approximately 12 m below the contact). Results (41.65m at 2.51 g/t Au, from 69.75m) confirm the thesis of higher vein intensity and width of the high-grade domain along the contact zone.

Drill Hole 151 did not honor completely the shape of the modeled high-grade zone in the southern edge of the East zone missing the central area but continues extending the eastern edge of the mineralization.

Drill holes FSA-152 and FSA-154 failed to extend the continuity of the extreme southern zone.

There are several additional extensional areas already identified in Serra Alta deposit that will be targeted later this year as part of the Phase 2 program.

Capitao Drilling

The Capitao Target is located 6 km to the south of Serra Alta along the same granite complex contact zone.

Four holes (FCP-001 to 004) have been completed in Capitao, two of them carrying visible gold. Assay results are pending. Capitao mineralization, as observed in drill core, shows remarkable resemblance with the Serra Alta granite intrusion hosted quartz/gold. Mineralized granite areas in Capitao are also proximal to the intrusive contacts with equivalent quartzite and Devonian horizontal sediment. As is the case in Serra Alta, mineralization is associated with quartz veins and sulphides (pyrite + galena + chalcopyrite) with a chloritic dominated alteration assemblage. Mineralization has been followed for a strike length of 400m.

The area between Capitao and Serra Alta, along the mentioned contact zone, is characterized by a few other targets including Sucuri and El Dorado where current exploration efforts include trenching, mapping, and geochemical soils sampling. Follow up drilling is planned subject to the results of the current work programs. El Dorado has the potential to extend Serra Alta to the South West as it is directly along strike.

Fartura Drilling

The Fartura Target is located 2 km to the northwest of Serra Alta, also sitting along the granite complex contact zone.

Two holes (FFA-001 to 002) have been completed in Fartura; assays are pending. Core Logging and revised surface geological mapping confirmed that the host rock of the shalow mineralization (mined informally on surface) in Fartura is a porphyritic felsic volcanic. The two completed holes show intervals with visible gold along a corridor of ~ 100m strike length.

The fact that relevant quartz veining and visible gold is found in felsic volcanics is very encouraging as the intensity of mineralization is expected to increase in underlying grantic rock. Additional drilling will target a posible contact zone underneath the feslsic volcanics, following the Serra Alta model that has demonstrated that better grades and continuity are expected in the more permissive granitic rock, especially in proximal intrusive contact zones.

Exploration Strategy

Cerrado's overarching exploration approach in the Monte Do Carmo district continues to be a parallel process. First to define as accurately as possible the geology and mineralization continuity of Serra Alta, the most advanced target and conceptual anchor deposit; and secondly use this knowledge to test the full strike of the permissive contact zone to understand the overall district potential. It is Cerrado's belief based upon surface indications from garimpos (artisanal mining), geochem anomalies and outcropping vein zones, jointly with sparce relevant historic drilling along this domain, that there is high probability of discovery of substantial additional mineralization potential resembling Serra Alta scale and tenor along the contact zone. The exploration objective is to ultimately define a multimillion ounce gold district that will support a long-standing mining project.

Resource Update

As previously disclosed, Cerrado has retained Micon International to complete a resource update after the successful Phase 1 drill program completed in April. This resource update is expected for later this month and will be follow by a new PEA study in early August.

Table 1. Drill hole information

Hole_ID Easting Northing Elevation DEPTH (m) dip() Azimuth FSA-149 820,731 8,810,507 662 600.79 -38.9 130 FSA-150 820,685 8,810,456 672 565.93 -40.6 130 FSA-151 820,531 8,810,271 524 487.71 -30.9 105 FSA-152 820,246 8,809,423 507 94.79 -31.9 110 FSA-153 820,697 8,810,300 680 513.98 -45.2 115 FSA-154 820,189 8,809,387 498 126.84 -43.6 110 FSA-155 820,646 8,809,934 564 506.27 -73.1 116 FSA-157 820,698 8,810,301 680 559.08 -45.7 113 FSA-159 820,603 8,810,325 582 127.61 -26.1 110





*Collar coordinates by GNSS TP-20 UTM Coordinates, Datum: SAD69 / zone 22S.

*Azimuth Set by compass

*Dip and drill hole trajectory by DEVIFLEX Devico





Figure 1. Drill Hole Location Map



To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7487/90290_cfbe3eeb948f0ae2_002full.jpg





Table 2. Drill Hole Composites



To view an enhanced version of Table 2, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7487/90290_table2.jpg

Quality Assurance and Quality Control

Analytical work was carried out by SGS Geosol International Lab (SGS). MDC sends half core samples for sample preparation to the lab. SGS prepares samples at Belo Horizonte and at the same facility performs gold assays by fire assay (FAA505) or metallic screen (FAASCR_150_Au-Grav), the coarse fraction of metallic screen is assayed at Belo Horizonte and alternatively in Lima, Peru.

SGS has routine quality control procedures which ensure that every batch of samples includes three sample repeats and at least two commercial standards and two blanks. Cerrado uses standard QA/QC procedures, inserting reference standards and blanks, for the drilling program. The Reference material used are from CDN Resource Laboratories Ltd. and ITAK (Instituto de Tecnologia August Kekule Ltda.).

Review of Technical Information

The scientific and technical information in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Sergio Gelcich., Vice President, Exploration for Cerrado Gold Inc., who is a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101.

For further information please contact

Mark Brennan

CEO and Co Chairman

Tel: +1-647-796-0023

mbrennan@cerradogold.com

Nicholas Campbell, CFA

Director, Corporate Development

Tel: +1-905-630-0148

ncampbell@cerradogold.com

About Cerrado Gold

Cerrado Gold is a public gold producer and exploration company with gold production derived from its 100% owned Minera Don Nicolas mine in Santa Cruz province, Argentina. It also owns 100% of the assets of Minera Mariana in Santa Cruz province, Argentina. The company is also undertaking exploration at its 100% owned Monte Do Carmo project located in Tocantins, Brazil. For more information about Cerrado Gold please visit our website at: www.cerradogold.com.

Disclaimer

NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

This press release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking information" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation, All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that discusses predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, without limitation, statements regarding the business and operations of Cerrado Gold. In making the forward- looking statements contained in this press release, Cerrado Gold has made certain assumptions, including, but not limited to ability of Cerrado to expand its drilling program at its Minera Don Nicolas Project and increase its resources. Although Cerrado Gold believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that the expectations of any forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release. Except as required by law, Cerrado Gold disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward-looking statements or otherwise.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90290
Membership Collective Group ("MCG"), a global membership platform comprised of Soho House, Soho Works, The Ned, Scorpios Beach Club and Soho Home, and related digital platforms, today announced the pricing of its initial public offering of 30,000,000 shares of its Class A common stock at a public offering price of $14.00 per share. In addition, MCG has granted the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 4,466,535 shares of its Class A common stock at the public offering price, less underwriting discounts and commissions. The Class A common stock is expected to begin trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "MCG" on July 15, 2021, and the offering is expected to close on July 19, 2021, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210714005956/en/

MCG's global membership brand portfolio (Graphic: Business Wire)

J.P. Morgan, Morgan Stanley and BofA Securities are acting as joint lead book runners for the offering. Goldman Sachs Co. LLC and HSBC are acting as joint book runners. Citigroup, William Blair and Loop Capital Markets are acting as co-managers.

The offering in the U.S. is being made only by means of a prospectus filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Copies of the prospectus, when available, may be obtained from: J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, c/o Broadridge Financial Solutions, 1155 Long Island Avenue, Edgewood, NY 11717, by email at prospectus-eq_fi@jpmorgan.com or by telephone at (866) 803-9204 or Morgan Stanley Co. LLC, Attention: Prospectus Department, 180 Varick Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10014 or by email at prospectus@morganstanley.com.

A registration statement on Form S-1 relating to the proposed initial public offering has been filed with the SEC and became effective on July 14, 2021. The prospectus and registration statement referred to above will not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities to or from any person in the United Kingdom or any other jurisdiction to whom or in which such offer or solicitation would be unlawful. The prospectus and registration statement referred to above are not directed at persons in the United Kingdom and are not being distributed to, and must not be passed on to, the general public in the United Kingdom and no such person in the United Kingdom or such other jurisdiction may subscribe for or acquire shares in MCG or otherwise rely on the contents of such prospectus. In addition, this press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

About Membership Collective Group

The Membership Collective Group (MCG) is a global membership platform of physical and digital spaces that connects a vibrant, diverse and global group of members. These members use the MCG platform to work, socialize, connect, create and flourish all over the world. We began with the opening of the first Soho House in 1995 and remain the only company to have scaled a private membership network with a global presence. Members around the world engage with MCG through our global portfolio of 30 Soho Houses, 9 Soho Works, The Ned in London, Scorpios Beach Club in Mykonos, Soho Home our interiors and lifestyle retail brand and our digital channels.

United Kingdom: This communication is for information purposes only and is not an offer of securities to the public in the United Kingdom or in any other jurisdiction. This communication constitutes a financial promotion for the purposes of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 and has been approved by PrimaryBid Limited which is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 779021).

Any subscription or purchase of securities possible offering should be made solely on the basis of information contained in a relevant prospectus which may be issued by MCG. The information in this announcement is subject to change. Before subscribing for or purchasing any shares, persons viewing this announcement should ensure that they fully understand and accept the risks which will be set out in the relevant prospectus. No reliance may be placed for any purpose on the information contained in this announcement or its accuracy or completeness. This announcement does not constitute, or form part of, any offer or invitation to sell or issue, or any solicitation of any offer to acquire, whether by subscription or purchase, any shares or any other securities, nor shall it (or any part of it), or the fact of its distribution, form the basis of, or be relied on in connection with, or act as any inducement to enter into, any contract or commitment whatsoever.

Potential investors should not base their financial decision on this announcement. Acquiring investments to which this announcement relates may expose an investor to a significant risk of losing all of the amount invested. Persons considering making investments should consult an authorized person specializing in advising on such investments. This announcement does not constitute a recommendation concerning a possible offer. The value of shares can decrease as well as increase. Potential investors should consult a professional advisor as to the suitability of a possible offer for the person concerned.

Nothing contained herein constitutes or should be construed as (i) investment, tax, financial, accounting or legal advice; (ii) a representation that any investment or strategy is suitable or appropriate to your individual circumstances; or (iii) a personal recommendation to you.

This communication is not a prospectus for the purposes of Regulation (EU) No 2017/1129 as amended by The Prospectus (Amendment etc.) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, which is part of domestic law in the United Kingdom by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, but an advertisement. A prospectus may be published in the United Kingdom in due course on the Company's website at www.membershipcollectivegroup.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210714005956/en/

Contacts:

United Kingdom Media Contacts:

Min Shrimpton

press@membershipcollectivegroup.com

Jonathan Sibun

MCG@tulchangroup.com

United States Media Contacts:

Jakob Hesketh

press@membershipcollectivegroup.com

Zach Siegel

MCG@the193.com

SOURCE STRING: Membership Collective Group (MCG)
NEW JERSEY and HANGZHOU, CHINA, July 15, 2021 - (ACN Newswire) - Adlai Nortye Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as "Adlai Nortye"), a global biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative oncology drugs, today announced the completion of $100 million Series D financing round. Co-led by SDIC Fund Management and Tigermed, this round of financing is participated by Legend Star, Wuxi Biologicals Healthcare Ventures, Triwise Capital, Qingdao Mukui, Guolian Industrial Investment, Tian Ge Interactive, etc. Proceeds from the financing will be used to accelerate the development of ongoing clinical and preclinical programs, expand drug portfolio through in-house R&D capability, in-licensing, mergers and acquisitions and other strategic collaborations."We intend to develop differentiated and innovative oncology drugs globally to address the unmet medical needs and aspire to transform the deadly cancer into a chronic and eventually a curable disease," said Carsten Lu, President and CEO of Adlai Nortye. "This round of financing represents an important milestone for Adlai Nortye, and we are honored to continue gaining support from our prestigious new and existing investors as Adlai Nortye has demonstrated a proven track record of delivering what we promised to the market and investors in the previous rounds. We are well-positioned to advance the development of our robust therapeutics pipeline and looking forward to bringing in more and more innovative treatments benefiting patients globally.""We have strong conviction in innovation and paying close attention to what is trending in the biopharmaceutical industry," said Dazhong Lv, Managing Director of SDIC Fund Managemengt. "Adlai Nortye's strategic vision in global market, dedication to innovation in research and strong execution capability are what have been attracting us. We are pleased to have the opportunity to lead Adlai Nortye's D round and look forward to the development of multiple first-in-class drugs from the company's innovative pipeline globally and in China."Yan Leng, partner of Legend Star added, "Adlai Nortye is quickly emerging as a leader in the field of oncology and we are delighted to have invested in Adlai Nortye and provided support for the R&D of the company's promising pipeline. Combining innovative research and advanced clinical assets with proven management experience, Adlai Nortye has built an exciting portfolio filled with opportunities. We are excited to join such an experienced and proven management team, outstanding group of investors and top-tier pharmaceutical partners to advance the company's pipeline products."About Adlai NortyeAdlai Nortye is a global clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on innovative oncology drugs, with its R&D and global clinical operation centers in both China and the United States. With a strategic emphasis on oncology, the Company has built a global pipeline through collaborations and internal discoveries with more than 10 drug candidates in development. Currently, four of them are being investigated in clinical trials. The FDA Fast Track-designated AN2025 (Buparlisib) is undergoing a global multicenter Phase III clinical trial. AN1004 (Pelareorep), an FDA Fast Track-designated intravenously-administered oncolytic virus, has completed a Phase II clinical trial. Oral EP4 antagonist AN0025 (Palupiprant) has completed Phase 1b trial in a neoadjuvant setting in locally advanced rectal cancer and is undergoing Phase 1b trial in combination with Keytruda in patients with multiple solid tumors. AN4005, the internally discovered oral small molecule PD-L1 inhibitor, is currently in Phase I clinical trial in the U.S.The Company has assembled a world-class leadership team, built its unique immuno-oncology platforms, and established strategic collaborations with multiple global leading biopharmaceutical companies, such as Novartis, Merck, Eisai, Oncolytics Biotech, etc. Adlai Nortye is committed to becoming an innovative biopharmaceutical company with a global vision and strives to bring more effective treatments to patients in China and worldwide. The Company shoulders the mission of transforming cancer into a non-fatal disease or even a cure. For more information, please visit: www.adlainortye.com.About SDIC Fund ManagementEstablished in July 2009, SDIC Fund Management Corporation Limited is an independent, professional private equity company. It currently manages and advises more than RMB 50 billion of capital for a wide range of institutional investors including financial institutions, social security funds, and state-owned and private capital. SDIC Fund Management Corporation Limited is one of the largest professional private equity fund managers in China.About TigermedTigermed (Stock code: 300347.SZ/3347.HK) is a leading provider of innovative clinical research solutions across the full life cycle of biopharmaceutical and medical device products globally. With a broad portfolio of services and a promise of quality, from clinical development to commercialization, we are committed to moving our customers and patients through their development journey efficiently and cost-effectively. Tigermed currently represents a worldwide network of more than 60 subsidiaries and 150 offices and sites, with over 6,400 employees across 38 countries in Asia Pacific, Europe, North & South America and Africa. We are devoted to building an integrated platform that enables boundless possibility for the healthcare industry, embracing challenges to fulfill our commitment to serve unmet patients' needs, and eventually saving lives.About Legend StarFounded in 2008 as an angel investor, Legend Star is managing 7 early-stage funds with a total commitment of up to RMB 3.5 billion. By the end of 2020, it has made about 300 new name investments in cutting-edge technology, TMT and healthcare / pharmaceutical sectors.About Wuxi BiologicsWuXi Biologics (stock code: 2269.HK), a Hong Kong-listed company, is a leading global open-access biologics technology platform offering end-to-end solutions to empower organizations to discover, develop, and manufacture biologics from concept to commercial manufacturing. The company's history and achievements demonstrate its commitment to providing a truly one-stop service offering and strong value proposition to its global clients.The company is currently conducting (as of March 22, 2021) a total of 361 integrated projects: 190 in pre-clinical development; 137 in early-phase (phase I and II) clinical development; 32 in late-phase (phase III) development; and 2 in commercial manufacturing. With a total estimated capacity at around 430,000 liters for biopharmaceutical production planned by 2024 in China, Ireland, the U.S., Germany, and Singapore, WuXi Biologics will provide its biomanufacturing partners with an even more robust and premier-quality global supply chain network.WuXi Biologics views Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) responsibilities as an integral component of its ethos and business strategy and has established an ESG committee led by the CEO to increase efficiency while advancing commitment to sustainability. For more information about WuXi Biologics, please visit: www.wuxibiologics.com.Source: Adlai NortyeCopyright 2021 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.
Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR

DKSH Reports Strong Half-Year 2021 Results

DKSH returns to growth with net sales reaching CHF 5.5 billion (+5.3%) 

Consistent strategy implementation results in 20.7% EBIT increase to CHF 131.5 million 

DKSH completes four value-accretive acquisitions

Free Cash Flow doubles compared to H1 2020

Key Figures Group (CHF million) H1 2021 H1 2020 ?in % CHF ?in % CER1 Net sales 5,487.9 5,337.9 2.8 5.3 Operating profit (EBIT) 131.5 111.3 18.1 20.7 Profit after tax 86.7 60.2 44.0 47.7 Free Cash Flow 107.2 51.1 109.8 - RONOC (in%) 18.7 15.2 - -

1 Constant exchange rates (CER): 2021 figures converted at 2020 exchange rates

Zurich, Switzerland, July 15, 2021 - DKSH delivered strong half-year 2021 results. All key figures increased compared to last year such as net sales growing 5.3%, EBIT 20.7% and Free Cash Flow more than doubled. Against the pre-COVID levels of 2019, DKSH reports higher profitability and cash conversion. Business Unit Performance Materials continued its growth track record and, on the back of its transformation, the Fast Moving Consumer Goods business again posted strong EBIT improvements. DKSH also completed four acquisitions and increased eCommerce sales double digit.

DKSH CEO Stefan P. Butz said: "Despite pandemic-related uncertainties and the current restrictions in Asia Pacific, our EBIT and Free Cash Flow exceed 2020 and 2019 levels thanks to our resilient business model and the disciplined execution of our strategy. Visibility on the evolution of the pandemic remains limited, but we will continue to build a better company and expect a solid second half".

DKSH Group

In the first half of 2021, Group net sales increased by 2.8% to CHF 5.5 billion. Exchange rates had a negative impact of 2.5% and acquisitions contributed 0.7%, which resulted in an organic growth of 4.6%. DKSH grew EBIT by 20.7% to CHF 131.5 million, which is also an increase of 18.8% against the pre-pandemic levels in the first half of 2019. Profit after tax was CHF 86.7 million and the Free Cash Flow of CHF 107.2 million increased due to focused working capital management.

Business Unit Healthcare

Despite the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on the healthcare industry and the situation in Myanmar, Business Unit Healthcare delivered solid results on last year's level. DKSH expanded its commercial outsourcing services and business development. The Business Unit also announced the acquisitions of MedWorkz and Hahn Healthcare.

Healthcare(in CHF million) H1 2021 H1 2020 ?in % CHF ?in % CER1 Net sales 2,753.0 2,723.0 1.1 4.1 Operating profit (EBIT) 62.1 64.5 (3.7) 0.2

Business Unit Consumer Goods

The transformation of the Fast Moving Consumer Goods segment is well on track, even amidst COVID restrictions in key markets. Net sales slightly grew due to client wins and expansions despite the ongoing rationalization of client and product portfolios. EBIT increased double-digit benefitting from a leaner structure and from a leadership team that is consistently executing targeted market strategies.

In the Luxury and Lifestyle segment, net sales and EBIT increased, albeit from low levels. Travel restrictions will continue to limit tourism driven demand in the second half of 2021. The Swiss watch brand Maurice Lacroix again performed well.

In sum, Business Unit Consumer Goods grew net sales slightly and strongly improved profitability.

Consumer Goods(in CHF million) H1 2021 H1 2020 ?in % CHF ?in % CER1 Net sales 1,914.3 1,912.2 0.1 2.8 Operating profit (EBIT) 35.1 25.5 37.6 38.0

Business Unit Performance Materials

Business Unit Performance Materials again posted excellent results with double-digit sales and EBIT growth. The main drivers were strong organic growth across all four Business Lines and most key markets as well as the expansion of the key client portfolio. The experienced DKSH team delivered high-quality services to clients and customers by overcoming challenges in distribution channels and supply shortages. The performance in the first half was supplemented by the Axieo business running ahead of expectations. With the SACOA acquisition, DKSH has taken a further step in consolidating the specialty chemicals distribution industry in Australia and New Zealand. A scalable business model, strong business development, value-added services, digital marketing, and consolidation potential provide future growth opportunities.

Performance Materials(in CHF million) H1 2021 H1 2020 ?in % CHF ?in % CER1 Net sales 633.2 535.7 18.2 18.1 Operating profit (EBIT) 61.4 44.1 39.2 40.4

Business Unit Technology

Business Unit Technology grew sales organically and through the Bosung acquisition in Korea. The service business continued to grow and the Business Unit is well on track with implementing its focus strategy and digitization. The EBIT also increased slightly compared to last year. Based on a solid business pipeline, DKSH is confident that it will deliver a stronger second half of 2021.

Technology(in CHF million) H1 2021 H1 2020 ?in % CHF ?in % CER1 Net sales 187.4 167.0 12.2 13.6 Operating profit (EBIT) 2.3 2.1 9.5 9.5

Outlook

DKSH expects a solid performance in the second half and EBIT growth in 2021. The outlook assumes a slight GDP growth in Asia Pacific, that exchange rates prevail for the remainder of the year and barring unforeseen events (excludes special items). DKSH remains confident about Asia's long-term potential and is well positioned to benefit from favorable market, industry and consolidation trends.

Further Information

The media conference will take place today at 9:30 a.m. CET and the investor call at 11:30 a.m. CET. The Half-Year Report 2021 and recording of the investor webcast will be available on the DKSH website.

Appendix: Reconciliation Table Net Sales

(in CHF million) H1 2021 H1 2020 % CHF % organic* % M&A* % FX* DKSH Group 5,487.9 5,337.9 2.8 4.6 0.7 (2.5) Healthcare 2,753.0 2,723.0 1.1 4.1 0.0 (3.0) Consumer Goods 1,914.3 1,912.2 0.1 2.4 0.4 (2.7) Performance Materials 633.2 535.7 18.2 14.0 4.1 0.1 Technology 187.4 167.0 12.2 7.5 6.1 (1.4)

* Organic: Difference 2021 figures to 2020 figures excluding M&A and FX

M&A: MedWorkz (Healthcare), Crossmark (Consumer Goods), Axieo and SACOA (Performance Materials), Bosung (Technology)

FX: Impact from currency translation on net sales

About DKSH

DKSH's purpose is to enrich people's lives. For more than 150 years, we have been delivering growth for companies in Asia and beyond across our Business Units Healthcare, Consumer Goods, Performance Materials and Technology. As a leading Market Expansion Services provider, we offer sourcing, market insights, marketing and sales, eCommerce, distribution and logistics as well as after-sales services. Listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange, DKSH operates in 36 markets with 32,450 specialists, generating net sales of CHF 10.7 billion in 2020. www.dksh.com

For further information, please contact:

DKSH Holding Ltd.

Till Leisner

Head, Group Investor & Media Relations

Phone +41 44 386 7315

till.leisner@dksh.com

Demet Bicer

Manager, Group Media Relations

Phone +41 44 386 7217

demet.bicer@dksh.com
- Accelerated clinical development of ExeVir's novel llama-derived antibody therapies for potential treatment and prevention of Covid-19

- Manufacturing of ExeVir's candidate product at Mithra CDMO's new Injectable Facility

- Joint unique expertise of two Belgian biotechs to provide global access to innovative therapies for a broad range of coronaviruses, including variants of concern

GHENT, Belgium, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- ExeVir, which is developing single domain antibody therapies providing broad protection against viral infections, and Mithra Pharmaceuticals (Euronext Brussels: MITRA) announce a new collaboration to utilize the fill and finish capabilities for ExeVir's innovative therapies at Mithra's integrated R&D and manufacturing platform, Mithra CDMO.

ExeVir launched less than one year ago and has made tremendous progress in building the company and an innovative pipeline. Following the final close of its $50 million Series A financing earlier this year, ExeVir is accelerating the development of XVR011 for the potential treatment and prevention of Covid-19. The Phase 1b/2 clinical study is designed as a registration trial targeting conditional or emergency approval.

XVR011 is a single domain-based anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody (llama-derived VHH-Fc) optimized for stability, safety, broad neutralizing capability and excellent manufacturability. It stops Covid-19 from entering human cells and demonstrates best-in-class potential offering breadth and potency against a range of Coronaviruses (pan-sarbecovirus neutralization) and is significantly differentiated from other antibody treatments. Preclinical data show XVR011 antibody to be effective against SARS-CoV-2, and importantly, its rapidly spreading variants of concern. ExeVir has recently generated data which demonstrate in vitro neutralization activity against SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern Gamma and Delta.

Mithra CDMO offers a complete spectrum of solutions from early drug development, clinical batches and commercial manufacturing of complex polymeric products (vaginal ring, implants) as well as hormonal tablets. Since July 2021, Mithra CDMO is operating a new manufacturing facility fully dedicated to fill & finish production of complex liquid injectables and biologicals in vials, pre-filled syringes or cartridges.

The selection of Mithra CDMO for the filling operations of ExeVir's innovative Covid-19 therapeutic confirms its confidence in Mithra's technological know-how and state-of-the-art infrastructure. Under the terms of the collaboration, Mithra will be responsible for upscaling and manufacturing services for filling the drug substance in support of clinical and commercial supply.

Torsten Mummenbrauer, CEO of ExeVir Bio, said: "We are very pleased to collaborate with Mithra which has built a cutting-edge new fill and finish manufacturing facility. It has been a phenomenal year for ExeVir. Being able to collaborate with great partners in Europe such as Mithra and others are not only key to our success, but also helps the growth of the biotech ecosystem in Belgium and across Europe."

Renaat Baes, Chief Manufacturing Officer of Mithra, commented: "We are absolutely thrilled to enter into this collaboration agreement with ExeVir, who is developing promising innovative Covid-19 treatments. We will utilise both our team's unique knowledge to accelerate clinical supply and ensure manufacturing capacity to bring relief to patients all over the world. Our collaboration will contribute to creating employment within the local biotech ecosystem across Belgium, Europe and support the increasing supply and manufacturing demands."

About ExeVir Bio

ExeVir Bio is a clinical stage company harnessing its VHH technology platform to generate robust antiviral therapies providing broad protection against viral infections, including pan-coronaviruses. It is a spin out from VIB, the world class Belgium-based life sciences research institute. ExeVir's platform is based on the work of and collaboration with Professor Dr. Xavier Saelens and Professor Dr. Nico Callewaert from VIB. ExeVir Bio is led by a team of experts that combines international biotech and pharma experience with a successful track record of developing and bringing products to market. It has raised over 42M from blue chip investors led by Fund+, VIB, UCB Ventures, SFPI-FPIM, V-Bio Ventures, SRIW, Noshaq, Vives IUF, SambrInvest and several Belgian Family Offices. ExeVir has also been awarded funding from the Flanders Agency for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (VLAIO). www.exevir.com.

About Mithra Pharmaceuticals

Mithra (Euronext: MITRA) is a Belgian biotech company dedicated to transforming Women's Health by offering new choices through innovation, with a particular focus on contraception and menopause. Mithra's goal is to develop products offering better efficacy, safety and convenience, meeting women's needs throughout their life span. Mithra explores the potential of the unique native estrogen Estetrol in a wide range of applications in women health and beyond (Covid-19, neuroprotection). Mithra also develops and manufactures complex therapeutics in the areas of contraception, menopause and hormone-dependent cancers. It offers partners a complete spectrum of research, development and specialist manufacturing at its technological platform Mithra CDMO in Flemalle, Belgium. With 15,000 m of modern pharmaceutical pilot scale and GMP manufacturing facilities, Mithra CDMO provides specialized services covering complex therapeutic polymeric forms (vaginal rings and implants); fill & finish production of complex liquid injectables and biologicals in vials, pre-filled syringes or cartridges; a tablet manufacturing platform dedicated to Estetrol-based products. Active in more than 100 countries around the world, Mithra has an approximate headcount of 350 staff members and is headquartered in Liege, Belgium. www.mithra.com www.mithracdmo.com
15 July 2021

PRESS RELEASE

GAM appoints new Zurich based Global Head of Wealth Management and new Head of Private Labelling in Luxembourg

GAM announced today that as part of its growth plans, Martin Jufer is being promoted to the new role of Global Head of Wealth Management and Sean O'Driscoll will join the firm as the CEO of Luxembourg, responsible for the management company and Private Label Funds business.

These appointments mark another step in the implementation of GAM's growth strategy.

GAM Private Labelling is one of the largest independent third-party fund solution providers in Europe and plans to further strengthen the strategic growth path for the platform by building on its strong track record and ongoing client demand for management company services.

GAM's existing private clients business will be re-branded as GAM Wealth Management. GAM plans to grow the capabilities within its recently opened office in Singapore and continue to build its presence in this important and growing market. GAM also plans to deepen its existing capabilities in Switzerland and the UK while continuing to invest in new technology to support best in class client service.

Martin Jufer joined GAM from Julius Baer in 2009 and has been responsible for the Private Labelling business since 2015. Martin will provide continuity by remaining on the boards of GAM's management companies in Switzerland, Luxembourg, Ireland and Italy. Martin takes up his new Wealth Management role on 2nd August and will remain based in Zurich.

Sean O'Driscoll joins GAM from Universal-Investment where he was the Country Head of Luxembourg and a member of the Group Management Board. Sean will remain based in Luxembourg and will provide senior leadership there to reflect the importance of Luxembourg within GAM's business plans. Sean has over 27 years of experience in the industry. Before Universal-Investment he had roles with AXA, BlackRock and State Street in the USA, Ireland and Luxembourg. Sean will join GAM on 2nd August.

(These appointments are subject to the normal regulatory approvals).

GAM Wealth Management (formerly GAM Private Clients and Charities) has over 35 years of experience in providing multi asset solutions for private clients and as at 31 December 2020 managed over CHF 2.9 billion for clients including ultra high net worth individuals, family offices, trusts and charities.

GAM Private Labelling is one of the largest bank-independent third-party fund solution providers in Europe with CHF 86.1 billion of assets under management (AuM) and over 50 Private Labelling clients as at 31 December 2020.

Peter Sanderson, Chief Executive Officer at GAM, said: "I'm proud to recognise GAM's long heritage managing assets on behalf of our wealth clients and believe that Martin's client focus and solutions mindset combined with our multi asset investment capabilities will continue to attract clients and deliver the excellent service that they expect. Our Luxembourg team plays a critical role at GAM and Sean will further strengthen our leadership there bringing his significant business building, governance and oversight experience which will further develop our position as a leading third-party provider of fund solutions and management company services. I am delighted that GAM continues to attract such high calibre professionals while also being able to promote so strongly from within our own internal talent."

Upcoming events:

4 August 2021Half Year results 2021

21 October 2021Interim management statement Q3 2021

For further information please contact:

Charles Naylor

Global Head of Communications and Investor Relations

T +44 20 7917 2241

Investor Relations Media Relations Media Relations

Jessica Grassi Kathryn Jacques Ute Dehn Christen

T +41 58 426 31 37 T +44 20 7393 8699 T +41 58 426 31 36

Visit us: www.gam.com

Follow us: Twitter und LinkedIn

About GAM

GAM is a leading independent, pure-play asset manager. The company provides active investment solutions and products for institutions, financial intermediaries and private investors. The core investment business is complemented by private labelling services, which include management company and other support services to third-party asset managers. GAM employed 701 FTEs in 14 countries with investment centres in London, Cambridge, Zurich, Hong Kong, New York, Milan and Lugano as at 31 December 2020. The investment managers are supported by an extensive global distribution network. Headquartered in Zurich, GAM is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange with the symbol 'GAM'. The Group has AuM of CHF 124.5 billion (USD 132.3 billion) as at 31 March 2021.

Disclaimer regarding forward-looking statements

This press release by GAM Holding AG ('the Company') includes forward-looking statements that reflect the Company's intentions, beliefs or current expectations and projections about the Company's future results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, performance, prospects, strategies, opportunities and the industry in which it operates. Forward-looking statements involve all matters that are not historical facts. The Company has tried to identify those forward-looking statements by using words such as 'may', 'will', 'would', 'should', 'expect', 'intend', 'estimate', 'anticipate', 'project', 'believe', 'seek', 'plan', 'predict', 'continue' and similar expressions. Such statements are made on the basis of assumptions and expectations which, although the Company believes them to be reasonable at this time, may prove to be erroneous.

These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that could cause the Company's actual results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, performance, prospects or opportunities, as well as those of the markets it serves or intends to serve, to differ materially from those expressed in, or suggested by, these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause those differences include, but are not limited to: changing business or other market conditions, legislative, fiscal and regulatory developments, general economic conditions, and the Company's ability to respond to trends in the financial services industry. Additional factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release any update of, or revisions to, any forward-looking statements in this press release and any change in the Company's expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which these forward-looking statements are based, except as required by applicable law or regulation.

Attachments
LONDON (dpa-AFX) - Home improvement retailer Kingfisher plc (KGF.L) reported Thursday that its second-quarter to date like-for-like sales declined 1.3 percent, compared to last year. However, 2-year LFL sales growth was 22.3 percent. Further, the company raised its guidance for first-half LFL sales and adjusted pre-tax profit. In its trading update for the second quarter, the company reported high levels of demand from both new and existing customers continue, across retail and trade. E-commerce sales growth continued to be strong, with 2-year growth of 188 percent. Group LFL sales in the month of May increased 2.5 percent, while it fell 2.2 percent in June. UK & Ireland LFL sales grew 3.3 percent for the second quarter to date basis, while France sales fell 8.9 percent. Other International LFL sales grew 4.1 percent. Thierry Garnier, Chief Executive Officer, said, 'Kingfisher's performance in the second quarter to date has been ahead of expectations, with positive progress against our strategic priorities continuing to drive share growth in our key markets. With very strong comparatives from the previous year, we are pleased to see growth being delivered on a 2-year basis across all categories and channels, with e-commerce sales in particular nearly three times higher than the same period in 2019.' Looking ahead for the first half, the company now expects LFL sales growth of around 22 percent, compared to previous guidance of mid-to-high teens. Further, the company now expects first-half adjusted pre-tax profit to be ahead of previous expectations, in the range of about 645 million pounds to 660 million pounds. The previous guidance was about 580 million pounds to 600 million pounds. The company will provide a detailed update on the 'Powered by Kingfisher' strategy, performance and full year outlook at interim results on September 21. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
BRUSSELS (dpa-AFX) - At 2.00 am ET Thursday, the Office for National Statistics releases UK unemployment data. The jobless rate is seen unchanged at 4.7 percent in three months to May. Ahead of the data, the pound recovered from its early lows against its major rivals. The pound was worth 152.13 against the yen, 1.3850 against the greenback, 0.8549 against the euro and 1.2658 against the franc as of 1:55 am ET. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
IDnow makes onboarding even easier with automated KYC combined with real-time AML screening and monitoring

MUNICH, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- IDnow, a leading European Platform-as-a-Service provider for identity verification, introduces automated AML (anti-money laundering) screening to its comprehensive platform. This feature enables a combined screening of users against certain global watchlists to make a risk assessment and to avoid violating various sanctions. The solution is able to screen a person's identity against PEP (politically exposed person) lists, sanctions lists, global watchlists and adverse media at regular and self-selected time intervals. This allows the IDnow platform to monitor thousands of AML lists concurrently and in real-time.

IDnow integrates this additional step into its platform in order to reduce complexity and to make the KYC (know your customer) flow smoother, quicker and even more secure. The highly automated process spares companies from uploading data for the monitoring as the information was already collected during the identity check. With the option of ongoing monitoring, based on an individually set rhythm, businesses can maintain current risk profiles of their customers and perform the customer due diligence.

"The new streamlined process accelerates the onboarding flow and offers a better user experience", says Vikas Seth CPO at IDnow. "The addition of AML screening and monitoring is further expanding the IDnow platform and marks another strategic step on our way to become the leading European platform for all identity needs."

As a first step, AML screening and monitoring will be offered for IDnow AutoIdent, the automated identity verification solution within IDnow's platform. Furthermore, it will be offered for all our identification methods in the future.

Over the past few years, IDnow has expanded its role far beyond offering individual ident procedures and has become the overarching platform for digital identities with several million transactions per year. In 2021, IDnow acquired French identity technology provider ARIADNEXT as well as German identity Trust Management AG. This enables IDnow to expand into new industries and offer its services to a broader customer base in Europe.

About IDnow

IDnow is a leading digital identity verification platform in Europe with a vision to make the connected world a safer place. The IDnow platform provides a broad portfolio of identity verification solutions, ranging from automated to human-assisted from purely online to point-of-sale, each of them optimized for user conversion rates and security.

The company has offices in Germany, United Kingdom and France and is backed by renowned institutional investors, including Corsair Capital and Seventure Partners. Its portfolio of over 670 international clients, spans a wide range of industries, and includes leading international players such as, Western Union, UBS, Commerzbank, Sixt and Munich Re, as well as digital champions like N26, Solarisbank, wefox and Tier mobility.

Press contact IDnow:

Christina Schwinning

press@idnow.de

+49 89 41324 6054

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Telco operators will be able to deploy high-performance 4G services in rural and remote areas, expanding their market reach in the region

Communities living across the eastern most peninsula of Africa will be able to enjoy 4G services on their mobile phones following a three-year partnership agreement signed by fixed satellite solution and professional service provider, iSAT Africa and SES, the leader in global content connectivity solutions. The two companies announced today that this new service will be available first via SES's O3b medium earth orbit (MEO) constellation to subsequently migrate and expanded to SES's next-generation MEO system, O3b mPOWER, in 2022.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210714005981/en/

iSAT Africa and SES Networks to Provide Reliable 4G Services in East Africa via O3b mPOWER (Photo: Business Wire)

iSAT Africa is well-established in the region for embracing innovative mobile internet connectivity solutions for unconnected rural communities in Africa. Through SES's highly-flexible and scalable O3b mPOWER system that can deliver low-latency high-speed connectivity services from tens of megabits to multiple gigabits per second to a single site, iSAT Africa will be able to quickly scale its network to meet anticipated extensive connectivity demands. The fibre-like connectivity will equipe iSAT Africa to enable local mobile operators to deploy 4G services to close the digital divide. iSAT Africa is among the first companies in Africa to sign up for O3b mPOWER.

According to the GSMA 2020 report, mobile coverage has been expanding in Sub-Saharan Africa quickly; 3G coverage expanded to 75% compared to 63% in 2017, while 4G doubled to nearly 50% compared to 2017. However, the coverage gap in Sub-Saharan Africa remains the highest globally as it is home to 67% of the world's population not covered by mobile broadband. This is because attempts to deploy 4G networks in sparsely-populated rural and remote areas continue to be an economic challenge. With telcos and internet service providers increasingly seeking innovative, cost-effective yet reliable connectivity solutions, SES's MEO satellite-based MEF-certified service that can ensure seamless interconnectivity with any network is an ideal solution.

"At iSAT Africa, we don't just believe in delivering connectivity to everyone across Africa. It's also about delivering differentiated, cost-effective and reliable services that will enable various businesses to expand. This agreement represents a leap towards achieving that mission with iSAT Africa being able to deliver 4G services to communities and businesses located in underserved areas. As long-term partners of SES, we are confident this innovative solution will enable us to offer differentiated connectivity services to our telco customers," said Rakesh Kukreja, Founder and Managing Director at iSAT Africa.

John-Paul Hemingway, CEO of SES Networks said, "We will be able to revolutionise the connectivity capabilities of mobile operators across Africa together through this agreement with iSAT Africa. The O3b and O3b mPOWER systems will easily enable the deployment of 4G services and high-performance networks for cloud applications regardless of where they are across the region. The enhanced flexibility and scalability of O3b mPOWER will truly connect Africans living in underserved areas in the most economically viable manner."

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About SES

SES has a bold vision to deliver amazing experiences everywhere on earth by distributing the highest quality video content and providing seamless connectivity around the world. As the leader in global content connectivity solutions, SES operates the world's only multi-orbit constellation of satellites with the unique combination of global coverage and high performance, including the commercially-proven, low-latency Medium Earth Orbit O3b system. By leveraging a vast and intelligent, cloud-enabled network, SES is able to deliver high-quality connectivity solutions anywhere on land, at sea or in the air, and is a trusted partner to the world's leading telecommunications companies, mobile network operators, governments, connectivity and cloud service providers, broadcasters, video platform operators and content owners. SES's video network carries over 8,200 channels and has an unparalleled reach of 361 million households, delivering managed media services for both linear and non-linear content. The company is listed on Paris and Luxembourg stock exchanges (Ticker: SESG). Further information is available at: www.ses.com.

About iSAT Africa

iSAT Africa, a fast-growing communication service provider in Africa and Middle East, is a UAE based company whose mission is to transform the way Africa gets and stays connected with the rest of the world. iSAT's unique connectivity solutions deliver efficiency, reliability and affordability for Data, Internet, Voice and Video solutions These customized solutions serve broadcast and media organizations, multinationals, major ISPs, Governmental and Non-Governmental organizations as well as Tier 1 telecom operators.

With its network of partners and service providers, iSAT Africa is able to satisfactorily deliver end-to-end solutions, turn-key solutions and managed services to it's customers/ partners within the shortest time possible whilst adhering to agreed upon service level agreements.

iSAT's Satellite Solutions, backed by powerful satellites, teleport and data infrastructure, latest technologies and inhouse human expertise is very unique in the industry. It is against this background that iSAT Africa partners with other leaders within the telco space in a bid to adequately meet its customers ever growing demand for telecommunication services across the African continent.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210714005981/en/

Contacts:

For further information:

Suzanne Ong

External Communications

Tel. +352 710 725 500

suzanne.ong@ses.com
Data shows more teachers than ever at Nord Anglia Education enrolled in bespoke online courses to further enhance teaching skills

LONDON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Nord Anglia Education, the world's leading premium international schools organisation, released figures today showing a steep rise in teachers using EdTech to further boost their teaching and digital skills.

Nord Anglia University (NAU), the organisation's online professional development platform, recorded an 82% increase in the number of training sessions taken by teachers between September 2020 and April 2021, compared to the same period last year.

The data analysis, based on Nord Anglia's 10,000 teachers in 30 countries, found that courses on teaching skills were the most popular among teachers and accounted for 51% of all online course enrolments during this period. This included online workshops and professional development courses, such as Teaching Creative Writing, Early Years Pedagogy, and Empowering Learners. On average, teachers took part in 57 training sessions focused on further enhancing their teaching skills during this time.

Nord Anglia's analysis also shows that 1 in 5 sessions (21%) focused on further improving digital skills, with popular sessions including Technology for Collaborative Learning, Digital Tools for Student Engagement, and Gamification for Learning.

Courses on wellbeing and pastoral care made up 14% of all sessions, with courses such as Mindfulness and Wellbeing and Healthy Living proving the most popular. This was closely followed by resources on leadership and career management at 13%, with the most popular courses including Mindful Leadership, Developing Resilience, and Managing through Change.

NAU contains thousands of resources, courses, and learning opportunities designed to support teachers' professional development and connect them with peers across Nord Anglia's global network of schools. Using the best in AI to personalise the learning experience, the platform promotes collaboration and the sharing of best practice in teaching, wellbeing, and career management with teachers forming community groups online.

Dr Elise Ecoff, Group Director of Education, Nord Anglia Education, said: "At Nord Anglia, education technology is a powerful tool to support teachers' professional development as well as unlock students' learning. It is why we have invested in Nord Anglia University, so our teachers have high-quality professional development at their fingertips wherever they are teaching in the world."

About Nord Anglia Education

Nord Anglia Education (NAE) is the world's leading premium schools organisation, with 73 schools across 30 countries. Our schools go beyond traditional learning to deliver a high quality, transformational education to 67,000 students from kindergarten through to the end of secondary school. We offer multiple internationally recognised curriculums, including the English Curriculum, the International Baccalaureate, the Swiss Maturite and the US Curriculum, amongst others.

Our global scale enables us to recruit and retain world-leading teachers and to offer our students unforgettable experiences through our partnerships with world-renowned institutions The Juilliard School, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and UNICEF. As part of the NAE family, every student can connect and collaborate on our bespoke Global Campus platform to bring their learning to life beyond the classroom.

Founded in 1972 in the United Kingdom, initially offering learning services such as English-as-a-foreign-language classes, NAE opened its first international school in 1992: the British School Warsaw. In the 2000s, NAE began a strategic focus on premium international schools, with rapid growth in Asia, the Americas, China and across Europe and the Middle East. In July 2019, the company relocated its headquarters from Hong Kong to London.

For more information, please visit www.nordangliaeducation.com.

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1503193/Nord_Anglia_Education_Logo.jpg
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / Marvel Discovery Corp. (TSXV:MARV)(FRA:O4T1)(OTCQB:MARVF); ("Marvel" or the "Company") is pleased to announce an exploration update on its 100% owned Slip Project, located in Central Newfoundland. The Slip Project is located within 17 km of the Newfound Gold Queensway Project. An analysis of the regional magnetic data suggests the Slip Project lies within a similar structural setting as the New Found Gold's Queensway Project making this project a high priority for Marvel. Recent exploration on the Slip Project has uncovered surface mineralization with grab samples as high as 44.5 g/t Au and a detailed, systematic exploration program is now underway.

Figure 1. Regional location of Marvel's Slip Gold property.

Marvel has contracted Balch Exploration Consulting Inc. (BECI) to conduct a high-resolution magnetic gradiometer survey. These survey results will allow for a detailed litho-structural analysis of the entire project area. BECI provides a state-of-art acquisition system with an airframe design based on a high drag principle to keep the sensors on-line and without the need for magnetic compensation resulting in the highest quality total magnetic intensity and gradiometer data. The survey will be flown along 100m spaced lines with a sensor height of 30m and sample intervals of 3-5m. Real-time differential GPS accuracy is accurate to within 3-5m, allowing for direct ground follow-up without the need for additional ground geophysics, which often requires line cutting.

Marvel has contracted Roland Quinlan of Edge Exploration, one of the most highly regarded and well-known prospectors in Newfoundland. Roland will begin a systematic prospecting program of the entire Slip property.

Marvel's Chief Executive Officer Karim Rayani commented, "We are pleased to commence operations at Slip, completing the high-resolution survey will outline the structural features that we believe are present on the property. In addition, we were able to attract Roland Quinlan a local, high-profile and respected prospector of Edge Exploration, Newfoundland."

Airborne magnetic data provide the means to interpret geologic structure and lithology variations in areas with little to no outcrop. In regions where basement outcrop is minimal and petrophysical contrasts exist between different geological units, the data can offer the potential to "see under cover" and their interpretation can minimize risk and vector exploration efforts to those areas of high merit in real-time. BECI is able to provide both raw and processed data on a daily basis, working closely with our ground team in their efforts to perform detailed target analysis.

Qualified Person

Mr. Mike Kilbourne, P. Geo, an independent qualified person as defined in National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed, and approved the technical contents of this news release on behalf of the Company.

The QP has not completed sufficient work to verify the historic information on the properties comprising the Hope Brook property, particularly regarding historical exploration, neighbouring companies, and government geological work. The information provides an indication of the exploration potential of the Property but may not be representative of expected results.

About Marvel Discovery Corp.

Marvel, listed on the TSX Venture Exchange for over 25 years, is a Canadian based emerging resource company. The Company is systematically exploring its extensive property positions in:

Newfoundland (Slip, Gander South, Gander North, Victoria Lake and Hope Brook - Au Prospects )

) Atikokan, Ontario (BlackFly - Au prospect )

) Red Lake, Ontario (Camping Lake - Au prospect)

Elliot Lake, Ontario (Serpent River/Pecors - Ni-Cu-PGE discovery) & (Uranium- REE's)

Quebec (Duhamel - Ni-Cu-Co prospect & Titanium, Vanadium, and Chromium prospect)

Prince George, British Columbia (Wicheeda North - Rare Earth Elements prospect)

The Company's website is: https://marveldiscovery.ca/

Marvel Discovery Corp.

"Karim Rayani"

Karim Rayani

President/Chief Executive Officer, Director

Tel: 604 716 0551 email: k@r7.capital

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information:

Certain statements in this release are forward-looking statements which reflect the expectations of management. Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Forward-looking statements in this press release relate to, among other things: completion of the proposed Arrangement. Actual future results may differ materially. 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 the respective parties, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release concerning these times. Except as required by law, the Company does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: Marvel Discovery Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655636/Marvel-Commences-Exploration-at-Slip-Exploits-Subzone-Newfoundland
SEMAFONE LAUNCHES SECUREWEB+ TO SIMPLIFY AND SECURE PAYMENTS ON THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES

New solution extends payment capabilities for service providers, securing payments on third-party merchant websites and CRMs without compromising PCI DSS compliance

Semafone, the leading provider of data security and compliance solutions for call and contact centers, today announced the launch of Semafone SecureWeb+ which enables outsourced contact centers, in-house customer support, and merchants to make payments on behalf of others via third-party websites. With the addition of Semafone SecureWeb+customer service professionals are able to take secure, simplified Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) compliant transactions across different web applications.

Using Semafone SecureWeb+, outsourced service providers (OSPs) and business process outsourcers (BPOs) will be able to complete payment interactions seamlessly and securely. For businesses that support one-to-one customer engagement and sales opportunities, Semafone SecureWeb+ provides agents with the ability to act as an extension of their clients with a single, secure step enabling them to utilize different web applications to upsell and cross sell adding more value to every transaction. Whether it's a travel agent helping a customer add on hotel and transportation services to a booking or insurance companies updating policies to include warranties or earthquake extensions, agents can easily support additional transactions from multiple sites with Semafone SecureWeb+.

"Today, customers expect a modern, frictionless experience and don't want to be passed around from agent to agent across different channels," said Gary E. Barnett, Chief Executive Officer, Semafone. "With the integration of Semafone SecureWeb+, OSP and BPO contact center agents will regain control over the payment applications being used and eliminate the challenges of toggling between tools and calls to complete payments for customers. Semafone SecureWeb+ empowers third-party merchants to seamlessly and confidently make PCI DSS compliant payments on behalf of their customers."

Semafone's SecureWeb+ acts as an extension of Cardprotect Voice+, allowing agents to utilize the secure telephone payment solution to provide a seamless customer experience. The addition of Semafone SecureWeb+ allows outsourcing partners to look and operate as an extension of their clients, while protecting agents from exposure to sensitive data and mitigating any risk to the contact center. In addition, merchants are descoped for PCI DSS compliance, while supporting a diversification of their service offering to their customers via third-party websites. The solution cuts through the complexity of modern service interactions and protects clients and consumers by removing the risks associated with storing sensitive data.

With this solution, the end customer is provided with a truly frictionless experience. As a customer's payment card details are inserted from Cardprotect Voice+ via dual-tone multi-frequency (DTMF) masking onto specified website payment pages, sensitive card data entered into the secure web browser cannot be copied, viewed in the browser code, or captured in a screenshot. By shielding payment information from call and screen recordings, Semafone SecureWeb+ protects consumer data from being seen or heard by the agent. The solution also protects the reputation of service providers and third-party merchants.

Semafone SecureWeb+ is ideal for organizations looking for a quick and customizable implementation, designed to initiate and strengthen customer relations. Organizations utilizing SecureWeb+ can configure as many third-party websites as they need for successful business operations, as well as virtually every payment service provider (PSP). With the addition of Semafone SecureWeb+, organizations can be confident in their ability to deliver strong security for both their commercial partners and their customer base.

For more information on Semafone, please visit: www.semafone.com.

About Semafone

Semafone provides secure cloud, hybrid and on-premises solutions to contact centers and all businesses accepting payments. In a digital world that has transitioned to remote work environments, its award-winning payment solutions enable organizations to collect personal data securely across all channels including the telephone, webchat, social media, email, SMS, QR codes and more. Through Semafone's patented data capture methods, sensitive information such as payment card or bank details and personally identifiable information (PII), including social security numbers, are collected directly from the customer for processing. This data capture method prevents PII from entering the business and IT infrastructure, protecting against the risk of fraud and the associated reputational damage, ensuring compliance with industry regulations such as PCI DSS. Semafone's suite of solutions creates a seamless, omnichannel experience that increases sales conversion rates and boosts customer loyalty, while simplifying compliance.

Founded in 2009, the company now supports customers in 26 countries on five continents. Semafone is vertically agnostic and its extensive customer base includes companies such as Amica Mutual Insurance, British Sky Broadcasting, BT Group, and Sutter Health.

Livingbridge is a major investor of Semafone.

As a recognized global leader in secure voice transactions, Semafone's technology is integrated with over 30 Payment Service Providers. Semafone has achieved the leading security and payment certifications: ISO 27001:2013, UK Cyber Essentials certification, PA-DSS certification for its Cardprotect payment solution, PCI DSS Level 1 Service Provider, registered Visa Level 1 Merchant Agent and Mastercard Site Data Protection (SDP) Compliant Registered Service Provider. To learn more, visit www.semafone.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005228/en/

Contacts:

Media:

Emily White

PAN Communications for Semafone

semafone@pancomm.com

212-385-9783
- Ada makes three new leadership team appointments, hiring Gulsah Wilke and Torsten Schero to the roles of Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer respectively, and naming Vanessa Lemarie as Chief Client Officer

- The new appointments bring extensive experience scaling technology companies and driving operational excellence at high-growth and incumbent businesses

BERLIN and LONDON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Ada, the global health company, today announces the appointment of digital transformation veterans Gulsah Wilke, Torsten Schero and Vanessa Lemarie to the roles of Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Client Officer respectively. Wilke, Schero and Lemarie will be central to Ada's ambitious business growth trajectory in their new roles, as the company accelerates its path towards becoming the world's leading personalised operating system for health.

The appointments follow a period of significant growth for Ada: its AI-based health assessment and care navigation platform is the world's most popular and highest-rated symptom assessment app, with over 23 million assessments completed since launch. Meanwhile, the company has also rapidly launched a suite of AI-driven enterprise solutions, collaborating with a range of health systems, insurers, life sciences companies, and global non-profit organizations to integrate its symptom assessment and care navigation solutions across a wide variety of digital care journeys. Earlier this year, the company announced a $90 million Series B investment led by Leaps by Bayer to further accelerate this growth. Wilke, Schero and Lemarie join Ada's leadership team alongside co-founder and CEO Daniel Nathrath, co-founder and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Claire Novorol, and Chief Technology Officer Dr. Urban Liebel.

Daniel Nathrath, CEO & Co-founder of Ada, said:

"We couldn't be happier to be welcoming Gulsah and Torsten to Ada, and to be welcoming Vanessa to the leadership team, as we enter a hugely exciting new chapter for the company. Our goal at Ada is to improve healthcare outcomes for more than 1 billion people around the world, an ambition we can only achieve with the very best people on-board; Gulsah and Torsten both have exceptional track records spearheading strategy and driving organisation excellence at high-growth businesses, and bring with them a wealth of operational and financial expertise. Vanessa has been absolutely critical to Ada's continued success and business development strategy, and we are thrilled that she will continue to drive the company's growth in her new role. These appointments put us in an excellent position to pursue our ambitious growth journey, expand our consumer and enterprise offerings, and transform the way people access healthcare for the better."

Gulsah Wilke: Chief Operating Officer

Gulsah Wilke is a tech leader, advisor and investor who brings extensive experience scaling technology companies, creating organisational excellence and driving digital transformation. Most recently, Wilke served as an investor and head of operations, pricing and portfolio at Axel Springer. As a member of the supervisory board of StepStone, she was instrumental in shaping the success of Axel Springer's biggest portfolio company as well as Axel Springer's take private with KKR. Previously, she steered the Axel Springer Silicon Valley office, identified partnership and investment opportunities, and built a digital transatlantic hub. Prior to this, Wilke worked as a management consultant at McKinsey & Company and IBM advising international companies on strategic and digital transformation. She is passionate about fostering diverse teams and leadership-building in tech, and uses experience, expertise, and network as Co-Founder of the 2Hearts Tech Community (supported by the Deutschlandstiftung Integration) to empower talent with migrant backgrounds in the tech ecosystem.

As part of her role as COO, Wilke will oversee Ada's strategy process and lead operations, legal, marketing & communications as well as people & culture.

Gulsah Wilke, Chief Operating Officer at Ada, said:

"Having observed the market for a number of years, I have been thoroughly impressed by Ada's superior technology and knowledge-base, industry-leading AI, and purpose-driven culture to provide people around the world better access to healthcare. I am thrilled to be joining the team at Ada, and look forward to further shaping the company's already extraordinary success and growth alongside the team."

Torsten Schero: Chief Financial Officer

Torsten Schero is a visionary and strategic thinker with over 15 years' experience in CFO and CEO roles across startup, scale-up and incumbent businesses. He brings a wealth of experience driving operational excellence, building efficient teams and managing finance and business operations departments in high-growth businesses. Prior to Ada, Schero spent a number of years at Amazon Deutschland as CFO and Managing Director, Media Business for the DACH region, served as CEO at Rebuy Recommerce and Getnow, and has held a number of further executive and advisory positions.

In his new role as CFO, Schero will oversee Ada's financial strategy and its ongoing development as the company charts new growth internationally as well as managing investor relations.

Torsten Schero, Chief Financial Officer at Ada, said:

"It is hugely exciting to be joining Ada at such a pivotal time in its growth journey, and to be playing a key role in driving the company's financial strategy and key investor relationships through this new chapter. As the healthcare market shifts increasingly into digital services, there is a huge opportunity for Ada and its superior AI technology. I strongly believe in people's right to have access to health systems and medical knowledge, and am pleased to be working with such a great team to make this vision a reality for more people around the world."

Vanessa Lemarie: Chief Client Officer

Vanessa Lemarie has previously led the company's life sciences partnerships as Ada's SVP Life Sciences & Rare Diseases, working with a growing range of pharmaceutical and consumer health companies to implement Ada's technology and enable access to high medical quality health assessments and care navigation solutions, as well as leading Ada's Rare Disease Initiative. Prior to Ada, Lemarie spent over fifteen years working with Bayer Pharmaceuticals, holding various Global and Regional leadership roles across Pharma Commercial Operations.

In her new role as Chief Client Officer, Vanessa Lemarie will oversee Ada's business development and commercial strategy and partnerships across all industries and health sectors.

Vanessa Lemarie, Chief Client Officer at Ada, said:

"It has been an absolute privilege to lead our life sciences collaborations over the last couple of years, working with our amazing teams to make Ada the best health assessment solution for users that also generates value for numerous clients across healthcare.

Striving to always provide the best possible engagements with our clients, closing ambitious partnerships, and learning how we together best help users all over the world manage their health will be key to our growth and continued commercial success. I am thrilled to now be leading our commercial teams and further develop Ada's exceptional client business."

About Ada

Ada is a global health company founded by doctors, scientists and industry pioneers to create new possibilities for personal health, and transform knowledge into better outcomes. Its core system connects medical knowledge with intelligent technology to help all people actively manage their health and medical professionals to deliver effective care, and the company works with leading health providers, organizations and governments to carry out this vision. The Ada platform has 11 million users worldwide, and has completed 23 million assessments since its global launch in 2016.

In May 2021, Ada raised $90 million in a Series B investment round led by Leaps by Bayer, the impact investment arm of Bayer AG, with participation from the likes of Samsung Catalyst Fund, Vitruvian Partners, Inteligo Bank, F4 and Mutschler Ventures.

To learn more, visit www.ada.com .

Contact:

ada@thisisoutcast.com

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1574322/Schero_Wilke_Lemarie_ADA.jpg
EASTLEIGH, UK / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / i3 Energy plc (AIM:I3E) (TSX:ITE), an independent oil and gas company with assets and operations in the UK and Canada, is pleased to announce the following update.

Clearwater Drilling

Drilling operations on the second well in the Marten Hills Clearwater drilling programme (located at 02-12-075-26W4), targeting the 25m thick Clearwater C sandstone, have been completed. Eight horizontal lateral sections, for a total of approx. 12,644m in length, penetrating the reservoir to a maximum true vertical depth of 630m, were successfully drilled from this wellbore with operations having progressed on time and on budget. All laterals drilled have encountered a clean upper shoreface sandstone, with porosities ranging from 24% to 27%, and oil has been evidenced throughout via oil shows on cuttings.

The rig is now being de-mobilised and tie-in and equipping of the wells is expected to take five days following rig release, with production from both wells anticipated to commence in late July.

Majid Shafiq, CEO of i3 Energy plc, commented:

'We are very pleased to have successfully completed drilling operations on the first two wells in the Company's Marten Hills Clearwater acreage and look forward to bringing these wells onto production later in July. This is the first phase of drilling operations on this acreage and following evaluation of log and production data from these wells, we will program the second phase of drilling which will target an additional seven possible locations.'

END

Qualified Person's Statement

In accordance with the AIM Note for Mining and Oil and Gas Companies, i3 discloses that Majid Shafiq is the qualified person who has reviewed the technical information contained in this document. He graduated with a Master's Degree in Petroleum Engineering from Heriot-Watt University in 1988 and is a member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers. Majid Shafiq consents to the inclusion of the information in the form and context in which it appears.

Enquiries:

i3 Energy plc Majid Shafiq (CEO) / Graham Heath (CFO) c/o Camarco Tel: +44 (0) 203 781 8331 WH Ireland Limited (Nomad and Joint Broker) James Joyce, James Sinclair-Ford Tel: +44 (0) 207 220 1666 Canaccord Genuity Limited (Joint Broker) Henry Fitzgerald- O'Connor, James Asensio Tel: +44 (0) 207 523 8000 Tennyson Securities (Joint Broker) Peter Krens Tel: +44 (0) 207 186 9030 Camarco Owen Roberts, James Crothers, Violet Wilson Tel: +44 (0) 203 781 8331

Notes to Editors:

i3 Energy is an oil and gas Company with a low cost, diversified, growing production base in Canada's most prolific hydrocarbon region, the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin and appraisal assets in the North Sea with significant upside.

The Company is well positioned to deliver future growth through the optimisation of its existing 100% owned asset base and the acquisition of long life, low decline conventional production assets.

i3 is dedicated to responsible corporate practices and the environment, and places high value on adhering to strong Environmental, Social and Governance ('ESG') practices. i3 is proud of its performance to date as a responsible steward of the environment, people, and capital management. The Company is committed to maintaining an ESG strategy, which has broader implications to long-term value creation, as these benefits extend beyond regulatory requirements.

i3 Energy is listed on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange under the symbol I3E and on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol ITE. For further information on i3 Energy please visit https://i3.energy/

The information contained within this announcement is deemed by the Company to constitute inside information under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) No. 596/2014.

This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

SOURCE: i3 Energy PLC

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655632/i3-Energy-PLC-Announces-Operational-Update


CANBERA (dpa-AFX) - The Japanese yen climbed against its key counterparts in the Asian session on Thursday, as a surge in new infections in the Tokyo region prompted investors to seek the safe haven currency.



Tokyo on Wednesday reported 1,149 new cases, the most since January 22. It was for the first time in about two months that daily cases surpassed 1,000 mark.



The emergence of a COVID-19 cluster at a Japanese hotel, where Brazilian Olympic team members are lodging added to worries.



Seven staff at the hotel had been infected with coronavirus and Brazilian team were isolated from other guests.



The Japanese government had imposed a state of emergency in Tokyo until after the Olympic Games end on August 8.



Official data showed that China's annual GDP rose less than expected in the second quarter.



GDP was up 7.9 percent on year in the second quarter - shy of expectations for a gain of 8.1 percent and down sharply from 18.3 percent in the three months prior.



Data from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry showed that Japan's tertiary activity declined for the second straight month in May.



The tertiary activity index fell 2.7 percent month-on-month in May, following a 0.8 percent decrease in April.



The yen rose to 6-day highs of 81.88 against the aussie, 87.49 against the loonie and 109.75 against the greenback, from its prior lows of 82.34, 87.92 and 110.03, respectively. If the yen rises further, it may challenge resistance around 80 against the aussie, 86.00 against the loonie and 108.00 against the greenback.



The yen appreciated to a 1-week high of 129.84 against the euro, 6-day highs of 120.02 against the franc and 151.69 against the pound, off its previous lows of 130.20, 120.29 and 152.46, respectively. On the upside, 127.5, 116 and 149 are possibly seen as its next resistance levels against the euro, the franc and the pound, respectively.



The yen reversed from its early low of 77.46 against the kiwi and was trading at 76.88. Next key resistance for the yen is seen around the 74 level.



Looking ahead, the U.S. weekly jobless claims for the week ended July 10, New York Fed's empire manufacturing survey for July, import and export prices and industrial production for June will be featured in the New York session.



Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is due to testify on the semi-annual monetary policy report before the Senate Banking Committee in Washington DC at 9:30 am ET.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

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True to its rebellious spirit, BOMBERG has launched the first watch ever to incorporate CBD leaves extract: "BB01 Automatic Cure the BullDog

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005041/en/

The new BB01 Automatic Cure the BullDog combines BOMBERG revolutionary, free and adventurous soul with an outstanding concept and a phenomenal design. The dial features the instantly recognisable CBD indica plant with its seven serrated leaves and a powerful Super-LumiNova that makes the watch always readable. (Photo: Business Wire)

BOMBERG connections to CBD are rooted in the relationship nurtured over the years with dogs.

Since the BOMBERG launch in 2012 the bulldogs, Bolt in Mexico and Duke Paulina in Switzerland, have always been the official brand ambassadors and mascot.

In 2015 BOMBERG partnered with "Barry Foundation", the world's oldest breeder of St. Bernards and in 2020 with the campaign "Take care of me" supported the "Black Jaguar-White Tiger Foundation

After Bolt suffered an episode of stress, BOMBERG got in touch with "Bouledogue Attitude Foundation", in Switzerland, that recommended CBD-based food for its natural properties that help relieve anxiety as well as create a stronger nervous system.

Bolt recovered quickly and helps now spreading the word about BB-01 Automatic Cure the BullDog, the world's first watch ever containing 100% natural CBD with 0% THC.

Treading an unbeaten path away from the roots of traditional lifestyle industry, BOMBERG embraces the free and insurgent spirit of millions of people around the world who dare to be different and to create their own maverick rules.

The new BB01 Automatic Cure the BullDog combines BOMBERG revolutionary, free and adventurous soul with an outstanding concept and a phenomenal design.

The dial features the instantly recognisable CBD indica plant with its seven serrated leaves and a powerful Super-LumiNova that makes the watch always readable.

BB01 Automatic Cure the BullDog presents real CBD indica leaves extract inside the dial and a strap made of authentic hemp, produced by our partner in the United States, following the strictest sustainability and natural production standards.

BB-01 Automatic Cure the BullDog is the ultimate symbol of audacity signed by BOMBERG.

Technical details:

Reference: CT43ASS.30-1.11 Movement: Automatic 3 hands, Sellita SW200, 38 hours power reserve Case: 43mm, stainless steel case Outer ring with CBD leaves pattern Dial: Strong Superluminova on the Indica leaf Real organic US hemp inside the dial below the Indica leaf Crystal: Sapphire with anti reflective coating WR: 50m Strap: Fabric strap made with US hemp Buckle: Stainless steel folding clasp RRP CHF, VAT excl. CHF 1'790 Quantity SPECIAL EDITION with limited production

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005041/en/

Contacts:

BOMBERG Press:

Frederic Layani

flayani@bomberg.ch
The "Europe Express Delivery Market Forecast to 2027 COVID-19 Impact and Regional Analysis By Destination (Domestic and International), Business Type (B2B and B2C), and End-user (Automotive, Retail and E-commerce, Pharmaceuticals, BFSI, IT and Telecom, Electronics, and Others)" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

B2B Segment to Dominate the Europe Express Delivery Market during 2019-2027

The market is expected to reach US$ 98,057.09 million by 2027 from US$ 61,898.13 million in 2020. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2020 to 2027.

The report provides trends prevailing in the Europe express delivery market along with the drivers and restraints pertaining to the market growth. Boosting investments by companies on same-day delivery of consumer goods, increasing adoption of e-commerce among the population, and growing adoption of express delivery to offer better customer experience in express delivery operations are the major factor driving the growth of the express delivery market. However, extensive cost associated with express delivery hinder the growth of express delivery market.

The impact of COVID-19 differed from country to country across the European region as selected countries witnessed an increase in the number of recorded cases and subsequently attracted strict as well as longer lockdown periods or social isolation. However, Western European countries such as France, Russia, the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany and others have seen a comparatively modest decrease in their growth activities because of the strong healthcare system.

In order to protect its citizens from the virus, the European government has made tremendous investments in incorporating technologies in its healthcare systems to help identify signs of the virus. Due the sudden outbreak of the corona virus and lockdown across almost major countries in the Europe, the region has observed a drop in courier and parcel services.

The closedown of all activities including ecommerce has slowed down the adoption of express delivery services across the market. The healthcare sector has been continuously using the services even during the temporary closedown phase to ensure availability of medicines and hospitals supplies across the region. Thus, the above mentioned factors implies a negative impact on the express delivery market due to COVID-19.

Europe express deliver market is segmented based on destination, business type, and end users. Based on destination, the Europe express delivery market based on destination is segmented into domestic and international. The domestic segment accounted for the highest share in the market in 2019 and international segment is expected to be fastest growing during forecast period. Based on business type, is segmented into B2B and B2C.

The B2B segment accounted for the highest share in 2019 and B2C sector is expected to be the fastest growing during forecast period. Based on end-user, the market is segmented into Automotive, Retail and E-commerce, Pharmaceuticals, BFSI, IT and Telecom, Electronics, and Others. The automotive segment accounted for the highest share in 2019 and retail and automotive sector is expected to be the fastest growing during forecast period.

Amazon.com, Inc.; Aramex; DHL International GmbH; FedEx Corporation; KONINKLIJKE POSTNL; POSTE ITALIANE; TNT Holdings B.V; and United Parcel Service of America, Inc. are among the leading companies in the Europe express deliver market.

The market players focus on new product innovations and developments in order to achieve sustainable growth and to distinguish themselves among competitors present in the highly competitive express delivery market.

In 2020, PostNL delivered more than ten million parcels in seven days. With the web shops, PostNL make every effort to deliver the parcels to consumers on the agreed day. In the past week, the success rate was over 95% in Europe.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Introduction

1.1 Study Scope

1.2 The Publisher's Research Report Guidance

1.3 Market Segmentation

2. Key Takeaways

3. Research Methodology

3.1 Coverage

3.2 Secondary Research

3.3 Primary Research

4. Europe Express Delivery Market Landscape

4.1 Market Overview

4.2 PEST Analysis

4.3 Ecosystem Analysis

4.4 Expert Opinion

5. Europe Express Delivery Market Key Market Dynamics

5.1 Market Drivers

5.1.1 Increasing Adoption of E-Commerce Among the Population

5.1.2 Boosting Investments by Companies on Same-Day Delivery of Consumer Goods

5.2 Market Restraints

5.2.1 Extensive Cost Associated with Express Delivery

5.3 Market Opportunities

5.3.1 Incorporation of Technology in Express Delivery Operations

5.4 Future Trends

5.4.1 Growing Adoption of Express Delivery to Offer Better Customer Experience

5.5 Impact Analysis of Drivers and Restraints

6. Europe Express Delivery Market Analysis

6.1 Europe Express Delivery Market Overview

6.1.1 Europe: Express Delivery Market Revenue and Forecast to 2027 (US$ Million)

7. Europe Express Delivery Market Analysis By Destination

7.1 Overview

7.2 Europe Express Delivery Market, by Destination (2019 and 2027)

7.3 Domestic

7.4 International

8. Europe Express Delivery Market Analysis By Business Type

8.1 Overview

8.2 Europe Express Delivery Market, by Business Type (2019 and 2027)

8.3 Business-to-Business

8.4 Business-to-Consumer

9. Europe Express Delivery Market Analysis By End-User

9.1 Overview

9.2 Europe Express Delivery Market, by End-User (2019 and 2027)

9.3 BFSI

9.4 Automotive

9.5 Pharmaceuticals

9.6 IT and Telecom

9.7 Electronics

9.8 Retail and Ecommerce

10. Europe Express Delivery Market Country Analysis

10.1 Europe: Express Delivery Market

10.1.1 Europe: Express Delivery Market, By Country

11. Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Europe Express Delivery Market

11.1 Europe: Impact Assessment of COVID-19 Pandemic

12. Industry Landscape

12.1 Overview

12.2 New Product Development

12.3 Merger and Acquisition

13. Company Profiles

Amazon.com, Inc.

Aramex

DHL International GmbH

FedEx Corporation

Koninklijke Postnl

Poste Italiane

TNT Holdings B.V.

United Parcel Service of America, Inc.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/vfqu5n

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005500/en/

Contacts:

ResearchAndMarkets.com

Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager

press@researchandmarkets.com

For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900


WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Investing in shares is a risky business, but there are some stocks that never disappoint. Zoetis Inc. (ZTS) is one of them.



A spinoff of Pfizer, Zoetis is a global animal health company, which sells a diverse range of animal health products in more than 100 countries. The company went public on the New York Stock Exchange on Feb.1, 2013, pricing its shares at $26 each.



We had alerted readers to ZTS on Jun.30, 2014, when it was trading around $32 (Report titled 'Beyond Felines and Canines...). Since then, there has been no looking back and the stock touched an all-time high of $202.04 in intra-day trading yesterday, before closing at $201.28.



The company's efforts in executing strategies for building on its innovative pet care portfolio, expanding in key markets outside the U.S. and accelerating its growth in diagnostics are paying off. Revenue and profits have increased over the past eight years.



Despite the impacts of COVID-19, Zoetis reported a 6% growth in revenue of $6.68 billion and 9% increase in profit of $1.64 billion in 2020, thanks to the resilience of its business.



For the first quarter of 2021, the company's revenue was $1.9 billion, an increase of 22% compared with the first quarter of 2020. Net income for the first quarter of 2021 was $559 million, or $1.17 per share, an increase of 32% and 33%, respectively, on a reported basis.



For the full year 2021, Zoetis expects revenue to be in the range of $7.50 to $7.62 billion.



The company is scheduled to report its second quarter 2021 financial results on Aug. 5.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

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Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Cabral Gold Inc. (TSXV: CBR) (OTC: CBGZF) ("Cabral" or the "Company") is pleased to provide a drilling update from the Cuiu Cuiu gold district, Brazil, and to provide assay results from six recently completed follow-up RC holes at the Morro da Lua target.

Highlights are as follows:

Follow-up RC drilling at the Morro da Lua target, one of 43 targets identified so far outside of the Central and MG gold deposits at Cuiu Cuiu, has identified at least three high-grade NE trending veins which continue along strike and down-dip, including a new mineralized vein structure

A single diamond drill hole (DDH194) completed at this target in 2019 intersected three high-grade veins below historic workings and returned gold values including 2.8m @ 19.5 g/t gold, 0.6m @ 14.8 g/t and 0.5m @ 9.1 g/t gold. The recent drilling was designed to establish continuity of these veins both along strike and down-dip

Six RC holes were completed at Morro da Lua and returned 2m @ 10.5 g/t gold in RC84, 3m @ 6.6 g/t gold in RC85, 1m @ 6.2 g/t gold in RC87 and 2m @ 3.6 g/t gold in RC88, indicating continuity along strike and down-dip and the presence of a new mineralized vein structure

Drill contracts have been awarded and signed for two additional diamond drill rigs at the 100% owned Cuiu Cuiu gold district. The rigs are expected to arrive in the coming weeks and will bring the total number of rigs on site to five, comprising three diamond-drill rigs and two RC rigs

Alan Carter, Cabral's President and CEO commented, "The results from six follow up RC holes at the Morro da Lua target are highly encouraging and suggest that high-grade gold mineralization occurs in at least three veins and extends along strike and down dip. We have now demonstrated that the high-grade intercepts are not isolated and additional drilling will be required to fully understand the extent of the high-grade veins at Morro da Lua.

The addition of two more diamond drill rigs on site will bring the total number of rigs on site to five, which will allow us to aggressively drill off the high-grade zones at MG, Central and Machichie, and at the same time continue to define the gold-in-oxide blanket at MG and test other regional targets within the Cuiu Cuiu district".

Morro da Lua RC Drill Results

The Morro da Lua target is one of 43 targets identified so far, in addition to the Central and MG gold deposits at Cuiu Cuiu. It is also one of ten targets with high-grade drill results. Morro da Lua is located 2.8km NE of the Central gold deposit and 5km NW of the MG gold deposit (Figure1).





Figure 1: Location map showing the location of the MG and Central gold deposits, and the Morro da Lua target as well as other targets with high-grade drill intercepts in central part of Cuiu Cuiu district as depicted by dashed line 8km in diameter. Background to map is 1VD RTP airborne magnetic data

To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/3900/90313_9179795a54a80b73_002full.jpg

A single diamond-drill hole (DDH194) completed at this target in 2019 intersected three high-grade veins below historic artisanal workings and returned 2.8m @ 19.5 g/t gold, 0.6m @ 14.8 g/t and 0.5m @ 9.1 g/t gold (see news release dated May 16, 2019). The recent drilling was designed to establish continuity of these veins both along strike and down-dip.

Six RC holes were completed at Morro da Lua and returned encouraging results including 2m @ 10.5 g/t gold in RC84, 3m @ 6.6 g/t gold in RC85, 1m @ 6.2 g/t gold in RC87 and 2m @ 3.6 g/t gold in RC88 (Figure 2, Table 1).

Two of the three vein structures intersected in DDH194, appear to continue to both the north and south, whilst follow-up drilling did not extend to sufficient depth to establish continuity of the third mineralized structure which returned 0.6m @ 14.8 g/t gold in DDH194. However, a new mineralized vein structure was intersected immediately east of the principal structure and returned 3m @ 6.6 g/t gold in RC85.

These drill results suggest that the Morro da Lua target consists of at least three parallel high-grade vein structures which continue over at least 150m of strike length, trend NE and dip steeply to the NW. All of the veins are open to the north, south and down-dip. Similar NE-trending vein structures have been identified at other targets to the south of Morro da Lua including JN, Machichie SW and Hamilton Novo. Further drilling is planned to determine the extent of these high-grade veins at Moro da Lua.



Figure 2: Drone image showing location of recently completed RC holes (RC83 - RC88) and drill results (in red) at Morro da Lua

To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/3900/90313_9179795a54a80b73_003full.jpg

Drill Hole

# Weathering From



m to



m Width



m Grade



g/t gold RC83 Oxide/Saprolite 33.0 36.0 3.0 1.0 EOH 68.5 RC84 Oxide/Saprolite 4.0 8.0 4.0 0.8 Oxide/Saprolite 25.0 27.0 2.0 10.5 Fresh Rock 49.0 55.0 6.0 0.4 EOH 61.0 RC85 Oxide/Saprolite 14.0 17.0 3.0 6.6 EOH 90.0 RC86 Oxide/Saprolite 0.0 4.0 4.0 0.3 Fresh Rock 76.0 79.0 3.0 0.9 EOH 104.0 RC87 Oxide/Saprolite 0.0 14.0 14.0 0.8 including 8.0 9.0 1.0 6.2 EOH 90.0 RC88 Oxide/Saprolite 31.0 36.0 5.0 1.6 including 32.0 34.0 2.0 3.6 40.0 43.0 3.0 0.6 EOH 86.0

Table 1: Table showing significant drill results from RC holes RC83 to RC88 at Morra da Lua target

Two additional drill rigs at Cuiu Cuiu

Drill contracts have recently been signed with Energold Perfuracoes Ltda for two additional diamond drill rigs. The addition of these two rigs will bring the total number of rigs in operation at Cuiu Cuiu to five, three diamond drill rigs and two RC rigs.

The first of the two new rigs is expected on site in early August and will be initially focused on the drilling of regional targets. The second rig is expected on site in late August / early September and will be initially focused on drilling off the high-grade zones within the Central gold deposit.

Drilling Program Update

Assay results are currently pending on a total of seven diamond-drill holes (DDH 217 to DDH 223) recently completed at the MG gold deposit. The holes were designed to define the continuity of several zones of high-grade gold mineralization which are indicated by the drilling completed to date. Diamond drill hole 224 is in progress.

In addition to the diamond drilling at MG, the large Geosedna RC rig has been tasked with drilling off the overlying oxide blanket at MG and results are pending on several holes. Approximately 70 holes, each to a maximum depth of 65m are planned over the next couple of months to determine the size of the MG oxide blanket.

The Cabral reconnaissance RC rig continues to aggressively test regional targets and an update on this program will be provided in the near future.

About Cabral Gold Inc.

The Company is a junior resource company engaged in the identification, exploration and development of mineral properties, with a primary focus on gold properties located in Brazil. The Company has a 100% interest in the Cuiu Cuiu gold district located in the Tapajos Region, within the state of Para in northern Brazil. Two gold deposits have so far been defined at Cuiu Cuiu and contain 43-101 compliant Indicated resources of 5.9Mt @ 0.90g/t (200,000 oz) and Inferred resources of 19.5Mt @ 1.24g/t (800,000 oz).

The Tapajos Gold Province is the site of the largest gold rush in Brazil's history producing an estimated 30 to 50 million ounces of placer gold between 1978 and 1995. Cuiu Cuiu was the largest placer gold camp in the Tapajos and produced an estimated 2Moz of placer gold historically.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

"Alan Carter"

President and Chief Executive Officer

Cabral Gold Inc.

Tel: 604.676.5660

Guillermo Hughes, FAIG and MAusIMM, a consultant to the Company as well as a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, supervised the preparation of the technical information in this news release.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as such term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-looking Statements

This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities legislation (collectively "forward-looking statements"). The use of the words "will", "expected" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements should not be unduly relied upon. This news release contains forward-looking statements and assumptions pertaining to the following: strategic plans and future operations, and results of exploration. Actual results achieved may vary from the information provided herein as a result of numerous known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors. The Company believes the expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct.

Notes

Gold analysis has been conducted by SGS method FAA505 (fire assay of 50g charge), with higher grade samples checked by FAA525. Analytical quality is monitored by certified references and blanks. Until dispatch, samples are stored under the supervision the Company's exploration office. The samples are couriered to the assay laboratory using a commercial contractor. Pulps are returned to the Company and archived. Drill holes results are quoted as down-hole length weighted intersections.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90313
LIMASSOL, Cyprus, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- LearnWorlds, an all-in-one platform for creating and selling online courses, announced today that it has secured a $32 million minority investment by global venture capital and private equity firm Insight Partners .

LearnWorlds provides a no-code, white-label, all-in-one platform where educators and content creators can create, host, market, and sell highly interactive and engaging online courses. The Cyprus-based company capitalized on a breakout year for e-learning, showing 3x+ growth, as demand for online learning accelerated into a "new normal."

LearnWorlds plans to use the funding to advance its product roadmap, boost its customer success and accelerate marketing and sales focused on SMBs. LearnWorlds expects that the company will more than double its staff from 80 to 170 full-time employees in the next year, expanding the team internationally, beyond its current headquarters in Greece and Cyprus.

Panos Siozos, co-founder and CEO of LearnWorlds, said: "We set out to create the best and most accessible course creation platform for educators who are as passionate about teaching as we are. We democratized direct-to-consumer e-learning by making it possible for everyone to launch their own online course, out of their living rooms, and to profit from their skills and content.

While the full potential of e-learning has always been five years into the future, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this trend. Now, more than ever, educators and businesses need tools to help them re-train and re-skill people in a mobile, distributed, flexible, enjoyable, but also cost-effective and efficient way. And LearnWorlds is the tool that makes this happen."

"Over the last several years, we have seen online education platforms reshape the future of learning as individuals look to develop additional competencies and companies intend to re-skill their employees," said Nikitas Koutoupes, Managing Director at Insight Partners. "LearnWorlds represents the ideal cloud-based LMS to create premium, interactive, and branded learning experiences that quantifiably impact learning outcomes. At Insight, we invest in world-class teams who are creating market leading products, so we are thrilled to partner with Panos and team to help them accelerate their already impressive growth."

LearnWorlds has enjoyed rapid growth and already counts over 4,300 customers in more than 120 countries, including solo "edupreneurs", SMBs and large-training corporate sellers of online educational courses, as well as startups and corporations that provide online training for their customers and employees. LearnWorlds has experienced huge demand for its platform, and this demand has continued throughout 2021.

Insight Partners, one of the world's largest venture capital and private equity firms, is known for working closely with growth-stage companies, contributing unmatched expertise and business strategy, and helping them scale up their operations. Insight Onsite, its ScaleUp engine, is designed to help portfolio companies scale by providing a range of services in key business areas, like recruitment, marketing, and product development. Insight has backed the likes of Twitter, Shopify, and Pluralsight, with current portfolio companies including Udemy, Skilljar, Epignosis, and Monday.com.

To learn more about LearnWorlds' online course platform, please visit: https://www.learnworlds.com

ABOUT LEARNWORLDS

LearnWorlds is a cloud-based, no-code, white-label, all-in-one platform for creating and selling online courses. More than 4300 professional trainers, training organizations and corporations, in more than 120 countries, trust the platform to sell online courses, train employees and associates, and educate their customers. In a sea of online course platforms, LearnWorlds stands out with its overall user-friendliness, exceptional content authoring, the powerful website builder, extreme customizability and obsessive customer support, which make LearnWorlds a beloved tool for educators, designers, and developers alike. LearnWorlds has offices in Limassol, Cyprus and Chania, Greece but more than 90% of the staff works in a fully remote way.

( www.learnworlds.com | hello@learnworlds.com )

ABOUT INSIGHT PARTNERS

Insight Partners is a leading global venture capital and private equity firm investing in high-growth technology and software ScaleUp companies that are driving transformative change in their industries. Founded in 1995, Insight Partners has invested in more than 400 companies worldwide and has raised through a series of funds more than $30 billion in capital commitments. Insight's mission is to find, fund, and work successfully with visionary executives, providing them with practical, hands-on software expertise to foster long-term success. Across its people and its portfolio, Insight encourages a culture around a belief that ScaleUp companies and growth create opportunity for all. For more information on Insight and all its investments, visit insightpartners.com or follow us on Twitter @insightpartners.

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True Zero-Touch automation simplifies onboarding logistics for Lantronix IoT and Out of Bandcloud-based Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform, True Zero-Touch simplifies onboarding logistics of new devices, virtually eliminating on-site visits, reducing operational costs for our customers.



"We at Lantronix continue in our vision of driving customer value by eliminating friction associated with device provisioning and deployment with our enhanced True Zero-Touch automation feature now available in our ConsoleFlow cloud-based management platform," said Jonathan Shipman, VP of Strategy, Lantronix Inc. "True Zero-Touch automation facilitates quick and easy remote deployment by enabling device provisioning as soon as it ships. We are excited to be bringing this much anticipated feature to our SaaS platform, further increasing operational efficiency for our customers."

True Zero-Touch Deployment

With True Zero-Touch Automation, Lantronix IoT devices and software services provide the following:

Lantronix devices come cloud-enabled and connect to ConsoleFlow on power-up.

Devices will check for updates and will initiate firmware and configuration downloads.

Updates can be available for a single device deployment or for many devices across several geographic locations globally, reducing the potential for human errors.

Updates from the cloud use secure industry standard protocols and encryption, so there is no need for setting up complex VPN software or using unsecure DHCP servers.

True Zero-Touch automation features device import, which allows ConsoleFlow to automatically import purchased devices directly into the customer's ConsoleFlow account, eliminating repetitive and time-consuming efforts to add devices one at a time.

Lantronix cellular devices come with a pre-installed SIM card that is pre-activated to connect to ConsoleFlow, speeding up deployments and increasing operational efficiency.

ConsoleFlow Delivers Analytics, Insights and Predictions

Lantronix's cloud-based management platform, ConsoleFlow, enables users to view and manage globally distributed assets through a single pane of glass from virtually anywhere. Delivering centralized asset management, ConsoleFlow enables automated monitoring with real-time notifications and mobile access from any iOS or Android platform. Providing a secure path to Lantronix IoT devices and network assets, ConsoleFlow provides insight and control that empower users to focus on business logic and operational efficiency to drive successful outcomes.

About Lantronix

Lantronix Inc. is a global provider of secure turnkey solutions for the Internet of Things (IoT) and Remote Environment Management (REM), offering Software as a Service (SaaS), connectivity services, engineering services and intelligent hardware. Lantronix enables its customers to provide reliable and secure IoT Intelligent Edge and OOBM solutions while accelerating time to market. Lantronix's products and services dramatically simplify the creation, development, deployment and management of IoT projects while providing quality, reliability and security across hardware, software and solutions.

With three decades of proven experience in creating robust IoT technologies and OOBM solutions, Lantronix is an innovator in enabling its customers to build new business models, leverage greater efficiencies and realize the possibilities of the Internet of Things. Lantronix's solutions are deployed inside millions of machines at data centers, offices and remote sites serving a wide range of industries, including energy, agriculture, medical, security, manufacturing, distribution, transportation, retail, financial, environmental and government.

Lantronix is headquartered in Irvine, Calif. For more information, visit www.lantronix.com.

Learn more at the Lantronix blog, www.lantronix.com/blog, featuring industry discussion and updates. To follow Lantronix on Twitter, please visit www.twitter.com/Lantronix. View our video library on YouTube at www.youtube.com/user/LantronixIncor connect with us on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/lantronix.

"Safe Harbor" Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: Any statements set forth in this news release that are not entirely historical and factual in nature, including without limitation statements related to our solutions, technologies and products as well as inclusion of True Zero-Touch automation enhancements in the ConsoleFlow platform, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results, future business, financial condition, or performance to differ materially from our historical results or those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement contained in this news release. The potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, such factors as the effects of negative or worsening regional and worldwide economic conditions or market instability on our business, including effects on purchasing decisions by our customers; the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on our employees, supply and distribution chains, and the global economy; cybersecurity risks; changes in applicable U.S. and foreign government laws, regulations, and tariffs; our ability to successfully implement our acquisitions strategy or integrate acquired companies; difficulties and costs of protecting patents and other proprietary rights; the level of our indebtedness, our ability to service our indebtedness and the restrictions in our debt agreements; and any additional factors included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") on September 11, 2020, including in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in Item 1A of Part I of such report, as well as in our other public filings with the SEC. Additional risk factors may be identified from time to time in our future filings. The forward-looking statements included in this release speak only as of the date hereof, and we do not undertake any obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

 2021 Lantronix, Inc. All rights reserved. Lantronix is a registered trademark, and EMG and ConsoleFlow are trademarks of Lantronix Inc. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

Lantronix Media Contact:

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Corporate Marketing &

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media@lantronix.com

949-453-7158

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949-450-7241

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / CIBT Education Group Inc. (TSX:MBA)(OTCQX:MBAIF) (" CIBT " or the " Company ") is pleased to report that it has filed on SEDAR its consolidated financial statements and related management's discussion and analysis for its third quarter of fiscal 2021 ended May 31, 2021 (collectively, the " Q3 Filing "). The following is selected financial information for the nine months ended May 31, 2021 (" Q3 2021 ") and comparative results (" Q3 2020 "). Please refer to the Q3 Filing in its entirety, which is available under CIBT's profile at www.sedar.com .

All figures are in thousands of Canadian dollars except share and per share data unless otherwise noted . Capitalized terms used but not defined herein have the meanings ascribed to those terms in the management's discussion and analysis for Q3 2021.

Q3 2021 YTD Q3 2020 YTD % Change Total revenues $44,800 $46,563 (4)% Educational revenues - SSCC $29,720 $27,881 7% Educational revenues - SSLC / VIC $1,998 $6,404 (69)% Educational revenues - CIBT China $2,328 $2,213 5% Design and advertising revenues - IRIX $622 $611 2% Commissions and referral fees - GEA $416 $362 15% Rental revenues - GECH $6,678 $8,153 (18)% Development fees - GECH and Corporate $3,038 $939 224% Other operating expenses $24,769 $24,168 2% Finance costs $10,140 $5,484 85% Gain on change in fair value of investment properties $8,779 $8,261 6% Other Income, net $6,950 $660 953% Income before income taxes $7,105 $5,946 19% Net Income $6,289 $5,537 14% Net Income attributable to CIBT shareholders $6,755 $5,595 21% Income per Share - CIBT shareholders - basic $0.09 $0.08 13% Income per Share - CIBT shareholders - diluted $0.02 $0.07 (71)% EBITDA [Non-IFRS] $18,471 $14,375 28%

The following reconciles the net income (loss) to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA (non-IFRS):

Q3 2021 Q3 2020 Q3 YTD 2021 Q3 YTD 2020 $ $ $ $ Net income (loss) - Continuing operations (1,320) 1,111 6,289 5,537 Deduct: interest income (954) (766) (2,739) (2,305) Add: interest expense 3,184 2,182 9,105 6,236 Add: income tax provision (recovery) (339) 251 816 409 Add: depreciation and amortization 1,655 1,154 5,000 4,498 EBITDA [non-IFRS] 2,226 3,932 18,471 14,375 Add loss/deduct (gain) on changes in fair value of investment properties 298 (2,180) (8,779) (8,261) Add loss/deduct (gain) on derivatives, net 976 (461) 1,055 (751) Adjusted EBITDA [non-IFRS] 3,500 1,291 10,747 5,363

May 31, 2021 August 31, 2020 Dollar Change % Change Total assets $518,697 $452,767 $65,930 15% Total liabilities $314,010 $272,188 $41,822 15%

The following presents Book Value per Share (" BVPS "). Please refer to the note at the end of this news release concerning non-IFRS financial measures.

May 31, 2021 August 31, 2020 May 31, 2020 Equity attributable to CIBT Shareholders (book value) $55,903 $51,269 $57,575 Total common shares outstanding at period end 72,426,340 74,543,540 74,543,540 Book value per Share - BVPS $0.77 $0.69 $0.77

"During the first nine months of fiscal 2021, the market sentiment for the education and real estate sector continued to improve although the province of British Columbia remained under a state of emergency," commented Toby Chu, Chairman, President and CEO of CIBT. "The Company concentrated its efforts on streamlining its operations, modifying its business models, and maintaining a steady pace of advertising, marketing, business development, and corporate finance activities, which allowed us to overcome the challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. By focusing on our core businesses, we generated year-to-date topline revenue of nearly $45 million."

Key highlights of the Company's Q3 2021 financial results:

Domestic education revenue from Sprott Shaw College grew by 7% from $27.881M to $29.72M

GECH's real estate development revenue grew by 224% from 0.939M to $3.038M

Net Income attributable to CIBT shareholders increased by 21%, from $5.595M to $6.755M

Income Per Share (basic) for CIBT shareholders increased by 13% from $0.08 to $0.09

EBITDA increased by 28% from $14.375M to $18.471M

Gain on changes in fair value of investment properties grew by 6% from $8.261M to $8.779M, reflecting a burgeoning real estate market in Metro Vancouver. The value proposition by the GEC projects enhances the value of CIBT's investment holdings

Total assets grew by 15% from $452.767M to $518.697M

Toby Chu added, "Effective July 1 st, 2021, the British Columbia government lifted many traveling and social gathering restrictions and commenced plans to re-start the economy *1 . As a result, our international education divisions have experienced a surge of students registering for the upcoming Fall and Winter semesters. Additionally, our rental facilities received a high volume of booking reservations for Fall 2021. As a result, we expect to boost revenues in our education segment as well as GECH's rental apartment and hotel businesses in fiscal 2022.

"Furthermore, Metro Vancouver's real estate sector has experienced an upward trend for eight consecutive months, from September 2020 to April 2021, according to the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver *2 " continued Mr. Chu. "The rise in prices of real estate properties has boosted the market value of our student housing portfolio and, correspondingly, the book value per CIBT share. During the nine months period ended May 31, 2021, the Company purchased 2.7956 million shares from the open market and cancelled 2.1222 million shares, thereby reducing dilution and market float, while increasing earnings per share."

About CIBT Education Group:

CIBT is one of Canada's largest education services and academic real estate companies. With a global presence since 1994, CIBT employs nearly 600 staff at 46 business locations and operates a global network of 2,500 recruitment agents. In 2020, the group provided education, student recruitments and accommodation services to over 11,000 students. Its real estate portfolio, including operating assets and development budget, exceeds $1.5 billion.

*1 https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/info/restartplan *2 https://www.rebgv.org/market-watch/monthly-market-report.html

CIBT's education subsidiaries include Sprott Shaw College (established in 1903), Sprott Shaw Language College, Vancouver International College Career Campus, CIBT School of Business and Global Education Alliance. These subsidiaries offer over 150 accredited educational programs in healthcare, business, e-commerce, cyber-security, hotel management, language training and recruitment services at 29 locations in Canada and abroad.

CIBT's real estate subsidiary, Global Education City Holdings Inc. (" Global Holdings "), develops and manages academic assets such as student-centric rental apartments, corporate housing, hotel and education super-centres. Since 2015, Global Holdings provides B2B accommodation service to 90 schools in Metro Vancouver and B2C direct registration of 6,000 students from 71 countries. The GEC branded portfolio, including operational and under-construction or development, comprises 11 projects, 16 buildings spanning over 1.5 million square feet.

CIBT also owns Irix Design Group Inc. (" Irix Design "). Irix Design is a leading design and advertising company that services over one hundred corporate clients, including CIBT. Visit us online at www.cibt.net .

Toby Chu

Chairman, President & CEO

CIBT Education Group Inc.

Investor Relations Contact: 1-604-871-9909 extension 319 or | Email: info@cibt.net

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Some statements in this news release contain forward-looking information (the " forward-looking statements ") about CIBT and its plans. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, without limitation, the statement that CIBT expects to boost revenues in its education segment as well as the rental apartment and hotel businesses in fiscal 2022. The forward-looking statements are subject to various risks, uncertainties and other factors (collectively, the " Risks ") that could cause CIBT's actual results or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by forward-looking statements. The Risks include, without limitation that student course enrollments and accommodation bookings don't continue in the numbers expected due to COVID-19 or for other reasons, and the Risks identified in CIBT's annual information form for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2020, which is available under CIBT's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, opinions and expectations of CIBT's management at the time they are made, and CIBT does not assume any obligation to update its forward-looking statements if those beliefs, opinions or expectations, or other circumstances should change, except as may be required by law. If CIBT updates any forward-looking statement(s), no inference should be drawn that the Company will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.

NON-IFRS FINANCIAL MEASUREMENTS

The Company has included non-IFRS performance measures throughout this press release, including (a) Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization (" EBITDA "); (b) Adjusted EBITDA which is EBITDA adjusted for the gain (loss) on change in fair value of the Company's investment properties and the gain (loss) on change in fair value of derivative instruments; and (c) Book Value per Share which is calculated as equity attributable to CIBT shareholders divided by total common shares outstanding at the end of the reporting period. These non-IFRS financial measurements do not have any standardized meaning as prescribed by International Financial Reporting Standards (" IFRS ") and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Accordingly, these performance measures are intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Management uses EBITDA metrics to measure the profit trends of the business units and segments in the consolidated group since it eliminates the effects of financing decisions. Certain investors, analysts and others utilize these non-IFRS financial metrics in assessing the Company's financial performance. These non-IFRS financial measurements have not been presented as an alternative to net Income or any other financial measure of performance prescribed by IFRS. Reconciliation of non-IFRS measures has been provided throughout the Company's MD&A, as applicable, filed under the Company's profile on www.sedar.com .

SOURCE: CIBT Education Group Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655610/CIBT-Reports-Financial-Results-for-Third-Quarter-of-Fiscal-2021
SHELBY TOWNSHIP, MI / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / Resgreen Group International (OTC PINK:RGGI), a leading mobile robot company, announced today the pilot testing of WandaSA.

"WandaSA is currently undergoing extensive testing and validation at the new RGGI facility. We are very pleased with repeatability and accuracy of the system as a whole." said Parsh Patel, CEO of Resgreen Group International. "Using state-of-the-art technology, WandaSA is able to function autonomously. This allows for reduction in human exposure to UV-C and Ozone while ensuring effective and efficient elimination of 99.9 percent of bacteria and viruses. It is a time and cost effective solution for companies looking to streamline their sanitization process."

WandaSA uses LiDAR to create a scanned map of its environment, an Intel depth camera to create a 3D point cloud of objects in front of it, and IMU (inertial measurement unit) data to keep track of its location, navigate between points, and save locations. Once the routes are created, the robot moves autonomously along a path without requiring human interaction.

Utilizing the same 17"x17" WandaSD size and body type allows WandaSA to navigate through smaller areas with ease. WandaSA is equipped with color and infrared sensors that create two viewable camera feeds. The Wanda App allows for the viewing of the map, the creation of routes by adding points along the way, and the ability to save location names.

RGGI is a leading developer of Artificial Intelligence Robotics (AIRs), Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), and Automatic Guided Vehicles (AGVs). RGGI's highly skilled engineers have years of experience in the material handling and robotics industries, which has led to significant intellectual property for the company.

RGGI also provides consulting services including backend operational oversight, material handling assessment, work-flow analysis, and steady state yield management using artificial intelligence, technology, and management systems. For more information visit http://resgreenint.com .

CONTACT:

Sarah Carlson

Resgreen Group International, Inc.

scarlson@companystorytellers.com

Parsh Patel, President and CEO

248.755.7680 Mobile

Phone: 586.265.2376

Email: info@resgreengroup.com

SOURCE: Resgreen Group International, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655602/Resgreen-Group-Announces-Pilot-Test-of-WandaSA-at-New-Facility-in-Shelby-Township-Michigan
Victoria, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Plurilock Security Inc. (TSXV: PLUR) (OTCQB: PLCKF) and related subsidiaries ("Plurilock" or the "Company"), an identity-centric cybersecurity solutions provider for workforces, has received a US$1.7 million order with the U.S. Department of Defense as part of National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Solution for Enterprise-Wide Procurement (SEWP), a U.S. Government-Wide Acquisition Contract Vehicle (GWAC).

Following Plurilock's US$1.15 million order with the U.S. Department of the Navy announced on May 7, 2021, the latest purchase order represents the Company's second order to be worth over US$1 million in recent months. All contracts and orders signed by Plurilock since May 2021, including the latest order, represent a combined total of US$5.5 million in sales.

Per the terms of the order, the Company will provide the U.S. Department of Defense with a collection of IT software and hardware products, including network communication equipment, IT system components, peripherals, and software. The order includes ongoing maintenance support and will be fulfilled and sent overseas to an international site operated by the U.S. Department of Defense.

This new order is part of the Company's planned growth strategy and efforts to acquire additional business within the government vertical.

About SEWP

The SEWP V program, launched by NASA in 2015, is the leading information technology (IT) contract vehicle, with government agencies spending $7.9 billion in fiscal 2020.1 Estimates anticipate that agencies will utilize SEWP V for $8.8 billion in contracted spending in fiscal 2021.2 The contract vehicle provides Plurilock with the opportunity to access downstream customers in the government sector.

About Plurilock

Plurilock provides identity-centric cybersecurity for today's workforces. The Plurilock family of companies enables organizations to operate safely and securely while reducing cybersecurity friction. Plurilock offers world-class IT and cybersecurity solutions through its Solutions Division, paired with proprietary, AI-driven and cloud-friendly security through its Technology Division. Together, the Plurilock family of companies delivers persistent identity assurance with unmatched ease of use.

For more information, visit https://www.plurilock.com or contact:

Ian L. Paterson

Chief Executive Officer

ian@plurilock.com

416.800.1566

Roland Sartorius

Chief Financial Officer

roland.sartorius@plurilock.com

Prit Singh

Investor Relations

prit.singh@plurilock.com

905.510.7636

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") related to future events or Plurilock's future business, operations, and financial performance and condition. Forward-looking statements normally contain words like "will", "intend", "anticipate", "could", "should", "may", "might", "expect", "estimate", "forecast", "plan", "potential", "project", "assume", "contemplate", "believe", "shall", "scheduled", and similar terms. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, actions, or developments and are based on expectations, assumptions, and other factors that management currently believes are relevant, reasonable, and appropriate in the circumstances. Although management believes that the forward-looking statements herein are reasonable, actual results could be substantially different due to the risks and uncertainties associated with and inherent to Plurilock's business. Additional material risks and uncertainties applicable to the forward-looking statements herein include, without limitation, the impact of general economic conditions, the success of the Company in obtaining new or extended contracts or orders; the Company's ability to maintain existing customers or develop new customers; the Company's ability to successfully integrate acquisitions of other businesses and/or companies or to realize on the anticipated benefits thereof; and unforeseen events, developments, or factors causing any of the aforesaid expectations, assumptions, and other factors ultimately being inaccurate or irrelevant. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect the Company's forward-looking statements. Many of these factors are beyond the control of Plurilock. All forward-looking statements included in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as at the date hereof, and Plurilock undertakes no obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. Risks and uncertainties about the Company's business are more fully discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in its most recent Annual Information Form. They are otherwise disclosed in its filings with securities regulatory authorities available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

https://about.bgov.com/news/this-is-it-sewp-v-is-the-top-it-vehicle-in-fiscal-2020/ https://about.bgov.com/news/this-is-it-sewp-v-is-the-top-it-vehicle-in-fiscal-2020/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90225
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Moneta Porcupine Mines Inc. (TSX: ME) (OTCQX: MEAUF) (XETRA: MOP) ("Moneta" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the partial results from fourteen (14) holes drilled to test the resource extension potential of the Westaway underground gold resource located on the Golden Highway area of the Tower Gold Project. The drill holes were drilled as part of the expanded 2020/2021 winter drill program on the Tower Gold Project located 100 km east of Timmins, Ontario.

Highlights:

Drilling has intersected significant gold mineralization in resource step out drill holes at Westaway extending gold mineralization beyond the current resource estimate:

MGH21-197, located within the West Block area extended gold mineralization to the south and at depth: Intersected 8.00 metres "m" @ 5.34 grams per tonne "g/t" gold "Au" including 4.00 m @ 10.01 g/t Au, including 2.00 m @ 15.25 g/t Au, including 1.00 m @ 17.60 g/t Au

MGH21-196, located within the West Block area extended gold mineralization to the south and to depth: Intersected 19.30 m @ 3.94 g/t Au, including 4.50 m @ 8.09 g/t Au, including 1.70 m @ 16.82 g/t Au, including 0.70 m @ 20.00 g/t Au Intersected 3.45 m @ 6.86 g/t Au

MGH21-190, located on the western and depth extensions of the Westaway resource: Intersected 7.10 m @ 2.98 g/t Au, including 4.90 m @ 4.06 g/t Au, including 0.54 m @ 7.64 g/t Au

MGH21-186, located 300 m south of the current resources in the South Basin area: Intersected 7.00 m @ 2.13 g/t Au including 1.00 m @ 5.39 g/t Au Intersected 4.00 m @ 3.32 g/t Au including 1.00 m @ 8.95 g/t Au Intersected 5.00 m @ 4.78 g/t Au including 1.00 m @ 8.36 g/t Au



"We are excited to continue to intersect significant gold mineralization from drill holes in our resource expansion drilling at the new Westaway deposit," commented CEO, Gary O'Connor. "The drilling has intersected gold mineralization in large step-outs to the south and west as well as at depth as we look to expand the current underground gold resources at Westaway. Additional holes and assays are still pending from the current drill program which has been testing the resource expansion potential at Westway. Resource expansion drilling is also ongoing on the South West, Windjammer South and 55 resource areas as well as the new Halfway target. The Westaway underground resource currently consists of 662,000 ounces gold inferred resources at a 3.00 g/t Au cut-off within a total Tower Gold project resource of 4.00 Moz gold indicated and 4.40 Moz gold inferred."

The latest assay results are from partial results from fourteen (14) drill holes for a total of 9,518.0 m of drilling, completed as part of the current 70,000 m 2020/2021 winter drill program. The fourteen partially reported holes were targeting the extensions of the new Westaway resource to the south, west, east and at depth. Additional assays for the fourteen holes and results from additional drilling, notably to the west and at depth, are still pending. The current drilling was mostly focussed on testing clastic Timiskaming age sediment host rocks to the immediate south of the regional banded iron formation ("BIF") C unit and the gabbro intrusion, in a geological setting currently not hosting significant resources on the Tower Gold project.

Table 1: Selected Significant Drill Results

Project Target Hole From To Length Au Vein (Area) (Name) (#) (m) (m) (m) (g/t) Name GHW WA MGH21-176 189.00 190.00 1.00 3.65 New GHW WA MGH21-176 200.00 202.70 2.70 1.88 WA-12 includes 202.00 202.70 0.70 5.38 WA-12 GHW WA MGH21-177 566.00 568.00 2.00 3.13 WA-2 includes 567.00 568.00 1.00 5.38 WA-2 GHW WA MGH21-178 70.90 78.00 7.10 0.84 WA-14 includes 75.00 77.00 2.00 1.35 WA-14 GHW WA MGH21-181 108.00 114.00 6.00 0.69 WA-9 includes 108.00 108.50 0.50 4.40 WA-9 GHW WA MGH21-182 431.20 435.10 3.90 1.14 WA-5 includes 431.20 433.00 1.80 2.01 WA-5 GHW WA MGH21-183 766.70 769.00 2.30 1.50 WA-2 includes 766.70 767.50 0.80 3.73 WA-2 GHW WA MGH21-186 322.00 340.00 18.00 1.18 WB-11 includes 324.00 331.00 7.00 2.13 WB-11 includes 326.00 327.00 1.00 5.39 WB-11 and 334.60 335.20 0.60 3.65 WB-11 GHW WA MGH21-186 352.00 356.00 4.00 3.32 New includes 352.00 354.00 2.00 5.57 New includes 352.00 353.00 1.00 8.95 New GHW WA MGH21-186 372.00 377.00 5.00 4.78 New includes 376.00 377.00 1.00 8.36 New GHW WA MGH21-188 235.00 240.00 5.00 0.98 WB-12 includes 238.00 239.00 1.00 3.34 WB-12 GHW WA MGH21-188 331.00 333.00 2.00 1.22 New includes 332.25 333.00 0.75 3.23 New GHW WA MGH21-188 558.00 574.80 16.80 0.96 WB-5 includes 558.00 560.00 2.00 3.76 WB-5 includes 558.00 559.00 1.00 4.71 WB-5 GHW WA MGH21-190 478.50 485.60 7.10 2.98 WA-1 includes 480.70 485.60 4.90 4.06 WA-1 includes 484.10 484.64 0.54 7.64 WA-1 GHW WA MGH21-192 372.10 391.00 18.90 1.21 WA-5 includes 372.10 372.60 0.50 7.44 WA-5 and 389.00 391.00 2.00 3.99 WA-5 includes 390.00 391.00 1.00 4.63 WA-5 GHW WA MGH21-192 380.00 391.00 11.00 1.32 New includes 389.00 391.00 2.00 3.99 New GHW WA MGH21-192 397.00 423.50 26.50 0.71 WA-4 includes 406.50 407.00 0.50 4.05 WA-4 and 422.60 423.50 0.90 3.70 WA-4 GHW WA MGH21-196 131.00 134.45 3.45 6.86 WB-12 GHW WA MGH21-196 148.00 167.30 19.30 3.94 WB-11 includes 148.00 152.50 4.50 8.09 WB-11 includes 149.80 151.50 1.70 16.82 WB-11 includes 149.80 150.50 0.70 20.00 WB-11 and 154.50 162.60 8.10 4.12 WB-11 includes 155.40 156.20 0.80 13.00 WB-11 and 161.70 162.60 0.90 8.09 WB-11 GHW WA MGH21-197 135.00 143.00 8.00 5.34 WB-10 includes 139.00 143.00 4.00 10.01 WB-10 includes 139.00 141.00 2.00 15.25 WB-10 includes 140.00 141.00 1.00 17.60 WB-10



Intercepts are calculated using a 3.0 g/t Au cut-off or geological boundary, a maximum of 3m internal dilution and no top cap applied. All intercepts are reported as drill widths and estimated to be 75% to 95% of true width.

Discussion of Drill Results

The fourteen (14) drill holes for 9,518.0 m were drilled to test extensions and gaps of the new Westaway resource, including the West Block zone and the South BIF target located on the southern margins of the Timiskaming age sedimentary basin. Drilling was targeting clastic sediment hosted gold mineralized stacked quartz veins south of the BIF C unit and south of the gabbro intrusion. The partial assay results confirmed good extensions to the south, east and within the basin south of the BIF C unit and south of the post-mineral gabbro, as well as at depth. Additional assay results from the current drill holes and additional drill holes are still pending from the Westaway resource expansion drill program.

Drill results from the current program at Westaway confirmed the occurrence of the same style of steep west dipping higher grade stacked quartz veins sets and associated ankerite-albite-sericite-pyrite alteration haloes. Mineralization was extended up to 300 m to the south in hole MGH21-186 and to the east within the West Block area as well as to the west of the current gold resource. The Westaway underground resource currently consists of 662,000 ounces gold inferred resources at a 3.00 g/t Au cut-off within a total Tower Gold project resource of 4.00 Moz gold indicated and 4.40 Moz gold inferred.

West Block Area

Drill hole MGH21-196 was drilled to extend gold mineralization south of the late gabbro intrusion in the West Block zone and intersected up to 19.30 m @ 3.94 g/t Au, including 4.50 m @ 8.09 g/t Au, including 1.70 m @ 16.82 g/t Au, including 0.70 m @ 20.00 g/t Au from the WB-11 vein and 3.45 m @ 6.86 g/t Au from the WB-12 vein. Drill hole MGH21-197 was located to the north of the gabbro within a gap in the resource and intersected up to 8.00 m @ 5.34 g/t Au including 4.00 m @ 10.01 g/t Au including 2.00 m @ 15.25 g/t Au including 1.00m @ 17.60 g/t Au from the WB-10 vein.

South Basin

Drill hole MGH21-186 was drilled at Westaway to test the extensions of mineralized structures towards the southern margins of the sedimentary basin and intersected up to 7.00m @ 2.13 g/t Au including 1.00 m @ 5.39 g/t Au from WB-11, and 4.00 m @ 3.32 g/t Au including 2.00 m @ 5.57 g/t Au including 1.00 m @ 8.95 g/t Au from a new zone. MGH21-186 also intersected 5.00 m @ 4.78 g/t Au including 1.00 m @ 8.36 g/t Au from a new structure.

Western Extensions

Drill hole MGH21-190 was drilled to test the western extensions of the Westaway mineralization and intersected up to 7.10 m @ 2.98 g/t Au, including 4.90 m @ 4.06 g/t Au, including 0.54 m @ 7.64 g/t Au from the WA-1 structure. Drill hole MGH20-192 intersected veining of up to 11.00 m @ 1.32 g/t Au including 2.00 m @ 3.99 g/t Au on the western extensions of veins.





Figure 1: Westaway Drill Program: Drill hole Location Map



To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/4852/90295_e6722aaa44a95b83_002full.jpg





Figure 2: Westaway Drill Program: Drill hole Location Map



To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/4852/90295_e6722aaa44a95b83_003full.jpg





Figure 3: Westaway Resource Drilling- Cross Section



To view an enhanced version of Figure 3, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/4852/90295_e6722aaa44a95b83_004full.jpg

Table 2: Drill Hole Details*

Hole Easting Northing Elevation Azimuth Inclination Depth (#) (mE) (mN) (masl) () () (m) MGH21-176 570061 5368694 318 60 -60 720.0 MGH21-177 570141 5368630 319 50 -60 702.0 MGH21-178 570134 5368755 319 50 -60 477.0 MGH21-179 570218 5368828 320 60 -60 699.0 MGH21-180 570219 5368700 319 50 -60 702.0 MGH21-181 570297 5368763 320 50 -60 726.0 MGH21-182 570222 5368576 319 50 -60 720.0 MGH21-183 569916 5368669 319 50 -60 774.0 MGH21-186 570457 5368770 318 50 -60 741.0 MGH21-188 570452 5368893 321 50 -60 831.0 MGH21-190 570096 5368860 320 50 -63 798.0 MGH21-192 570113 5368794 319 50 -60 600.0 MGH21-196 570462 5369016 320 55 -62 417.0 MGH21-197 570383 5369086 321 55 -62 611.0

*Assay results for the reported holes are not complete. Full assay results from drill holes will be released upon receipt.

QA/QC Procedures

Drill core is oriented and cut with half sent to AGAT Laboratories Inc. (AGAT) for drying and crushing to -2 mm, with a 1.00 kg split pulverized to -75 m (200#). AGAT is an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory. A 50 g charge is Fire Assayed and analyzed using an AAS finish for Gold. Samples above 10.00 g/t Au are analyzed by Fire Assay with a gravimetric finish and selected samples with visible gold or high-grade mineralization are assayed by Metallic Screen Fire Assay on a 1.00 kg sample. Moneta inserts independent certified reference material and blanks with the samples and assays routine pulp repeats and coarse reject sample duplicates, as well as completing routine third-party check assays at Activation Laboratories Ltd. Kevin Montgomery, P.Geo. is a qualified person under NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical contents of this press release.

About Moneta

Moneta is a TSX listed Canadian based gold exploration company focussed on the development of gold resources in the Timmins Gold Camp, Ontario. The Company's flagship project, covering the Golden Highway and Garrison Gold deposits, the Tower Gold project is located 100 km east of Timmins and hosts a total indicated resource of 3,967,000 ounces contained gold and a total inferred resource of 4,399,000 ounces contained gold. The project includes a total of 3,335,000 ounces of open pit indicated resources contained within 116.7 Mt @ 0.89 g/t Au and 2,270,000 ounces of open pit inferred resources contained within 79.4 Mt @ 0.89 g/t Au, at a cut-off grade of 0.30 g/t Au. The project also includes 632,000 ounces of indicated underground resources contained within 4.9 Mt @ 4.05 g/t Au and 2,129,000 ounces of inferred underground resources within 15.7 Mt @ 4.21 g/t Au, at a 2.60 g/t Au cut-off grade at South West and 3.00 g/t Au cut-off grade at the other underground deposits.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Gary V. O'Connor, CEO

416-357-3319

Linda Armstrong, Investor Relations

647-456-9223

The Company's public documents may be accessed at www.sedar.com. For further information on the Company, please visit our website at www.monetaporcupine.com or email us at info@monetaporcupine.com.

This news release includes certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, collectively "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are frequently identified by such words as "may", "will", "plan", "expect", "anticipate", "estimate", "intend" and similar words referring to future events and results. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to information with respect to the future performance of the business, its operations and financial performance and condition such as the Company's drilling program and the timing and results thereof; further steps that might be taken to mitigate the spread of COVID-19; the impact of COVID-19 related disruptions in relation to the Corporation's business operations including upon its employees, suppliers, facilities and other stakeholders; uncertainties and risk that have arisen and may arise in relation to travel, and other financial market and social impacts from COVID-19 and responses to COVID 19. and the ability of the Company to finance and carry out its anticipated goals and objectives.

Forward-looking statements are based on the current opinions and expectations of management. All forward-looking information is inherently uncertain and subject to a variety of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, including the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, fluctuating commodity prices, competitive risks and the availability of financing, as described in more detail in our recent securities filings available at www.sedar.com. Actual events or results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements and we caution against placing undue reliance thereon. We assume no obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90295
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - C3 Metals Inc. (TSXV: CCCM) ("C3 Metals" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a Binding Heads of Agreement dated July 13, 2021 to acquire 100% of Hochschild Mining PLC's interest in the Company's flagship Jasperoide Copper-Gold Project[1], Peru (the "Acquisition").

Consolidation of the ownership in Jasperoide will be executed through an amendment of the original Master Agreement signed in 2017 (acquired by C3 Peru in early 2020). The transaction is between the Company's wholly owned subsidiary, C3 Metals Peru S.A.C. ("C3 Peru"), Hochschild Mining PLC ("Hochschild") and Compania Minera Ares S.A.C. ("Ares"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Hochschild. In consideration for the Acquisition, the Company will issue 25,001,540 common shares (each, a "Common Share") in the capital of the Company to Hochschild (approximately 4.65% on a fully diluted basis).

Kevin Tomlinson, C3 Metals' CEO stated, "On May 25th, we announced high-grade copper in drilling, confirming our enthusiasm for Jasperoide becoming one of the best new copper deposits to be defined in the Americas. Inasmuch as we didn't own 100% of Hochschild's interest, it became our priority to simplify the ownership and enhance C3 Metals as an investment opportunity. The Company is thus very pleased to have reached agreement with Hochschild to consolidate its ownership in the exciting Jasperoide project. This simplification of the existing ownership structure in the Project enables the Company to accelerate its exploration efforts which are aimed at delineating a large-scale copper-gold deposit. With only four years of exploration since its discovery in 1994, the Jasperoide Project remains very much in its infancy.

Simultaneously, as part of this transaction we are delighted to have such a reputable mining group as Hochschild join our share register enhancing C3 Metals' appeal to investors and we look forward to their ongoing support as we continue to grow the Company."

In connection with the Acquisition, the Company will grant a 2% net smelter returns royalty ("NSR") in favour of Ares in respect of the Hochschild Jasperoide mineral concessions subject to the right of the Company to purchase 1% of the NSR (thereby reducing the NSR to 1%) for a price of US$1,000,000 at any time, replacing the previously granted 1.5% net smelter returns royalty that had no buy back provision.

The Common Shares issued will be subject to contractual resale restrictions providing that the Common Shares may only be sold, transferred, optioned, encumbered, pledged or hypothecated in any way, except as follows: (i) as to 25% on the date which is four months from the date of issuance; (ii) as to 25% on the date which is eight months from the date of issuance; and (iii) as to 50% on the date which is 12 months from the date of issuance. The Common Shares to be issued for the Acquisition remain subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval.

For additional information, contact:

Kevin Tomlinson

President & CEO

+1 647 953-5924

ktomlinson@c3metals.com

Alec Rowlands

Vice President, Investor Relations

+1 416 572 2510

arowlands@c3metals.com

ABOUT C3 METALS INC.

C3 Metals Inc. is a junior minerals exploration company focused on creating substantive value for its shareholders through the discovery and development of large copper and gold deposits. The Company's flagship project is the 57km2 Jasperoide high-grade copper-gold skarn and porphyry system located in the prolific Andahuaylas-Yauri Porphyry-Skarn belt of southern Peru. Mineralization at Jasperoide is hosted in a similar geological setting to the nearby major mining operations at Las Bambas (MMG), Constancia (Hudbay) and Antapaccay (Glencore). C3 Metals also holds a 100% interest in five licenses covering 207 km2 of highly prospective copper-gold terrain in Jamaica, and a 100% interest in two porphyry copper-gold properties, with one under option to Tocvan Ventures, covering 304 km2 within the Cascade Magmatic Arc in southwestern British Columbia.

Related Link: www.c3metals.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

QP Statement

Stephen Hughes, P.Geo. is Vice President Exploration and a Director for C3 Metals and is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Hughes has reviewed the technical information in this news release and approves the written disclosure contained herein.

Disclaimer and Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. In particular, forward-looking information in this press release includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the Company's proposed acquisition, exploration program and the expectations for the mining industry. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. We cannot guarantee future results, performance or achievements. Consequently, there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking information.

Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made, and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Some of the risks and other factors that could cause the results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information include, but are not limited to: general economic conditions in Canada and globally; industry conditions, including governmental regulation and environmental regulation; failure to obtain industry partner and other third party consents and approvals, if and when required; the availability of capital on acceptable terms; the need to obtain required approvals from regulatory authorities; stock market volatility; liabilities inherent in water disposal facility operations; competition for, among other things, skilled personnel and supplies; incorrect assessments of the value of acquisitions; geological, technical, processing and transportation problems; changes in tax laws and incentive programs; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions and dispositions; and the other factors. Readers are cautioned that this list of risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive.

The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. We undertake no duty to update any of the forward-looking information to conform such information to actual results or to changes in our expectations except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

[1] The Jasperoide Project comprises 13 mineral concessions, Jasperoide 4 through 11 that are owned 100% by C3 Peru through its prior purchase in February 2020, Jasperoide 1 through 3 through the Hochschild acquisition, and Gretiam 10 and 70 mineral concessions (the "La Bruja Tenements") that C3 Peru has the right to earn 100% through cash payments and exploration expenditures.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90318
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / (TSXV:OGN)(OTCQX:OGNRF) Orogen Royalties Inc. ("Orogen" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has signed an option agreement (the "Agreement") with Badger Minerals LLC ("Badger"), a private mineral exploration company, for the Kalium Canyon gold project in Nevada, USA.

To earn a 100% interest in the Kalium Canyon project, Badger will make cash payments of US$1.75 million and exploration expenditures of US$5.0 million over a five-year period. Orogen will retain a 2% net smelter return ("NSR") royalty of which 0.5% can be purchased for US$2.0 million.

"Orogen's property portfolio is suitably positioned for partnerships with good quality producing and exploration companies," commented Orogen CEO Paddy Nicol. "These partnerships are structured on the foundation of royalty creation or equity interests, cash payments, and exploration work in a short time frame, and accomplishes Orogen's strategy of cost-effective organic royalty creation. Our eleven joint ventures in British Columbia, Nevada, and Mexico have active exploration and drilling programs and provide an excellent opportunity to increase our royalty portfolio."

About the Kalium Canyon Project

Kalium Canyon covers 101 claims in the Walker Lane trend (Figure 1) where many low sulfidation epithermal gold discoveries in Nevada have been found, including North Bullfrog, C-Horst/Lynnda Strip, Silicon, and Eastside. Locally, the project lies within the Red Mountain district where approximately 10 million ounces of silver was produced.

Kalium Canyon contains the Kalium and Argenta zones, northeast trending mineralized structures that run parallel to the historic 16-1, Nivloc, and Mohawk mines where production came from large continuous veins underground. (Figure 2).

Figure 1: Location of Orogen's interests in Nevada

Figure 2: Mineralized structures near Kalium Canyon. Geology from Stewart et al (1974)

The Kalium structure is an undrilled, one- to two-kilometre-long corridor overlain by a steam heated cell of alunite-kaolinite alteration. The Argenta structure to the southeast is approximately four to five kilometres long and hosts a known gold-rich stockwork vein system with historic chip channel samples from 1947 of 15 metres grading 3.74 grams per tonne ("g/t") gold and later reverse circulation drilling returning up to 46 metres grading 1.2 g/t gold. The mineralization is hosted by high-angle breccias which are open to depth. Siliceous sinters exposed at the surface attest to the shallow level of exposure of this structural zone, similar to the shallow style of alteration exhibited by the Kalium structure.

Both structural zones have potential for hosting precious metal mineralization beneath shallow caps, and past drilling has been limited to small portions of these systems.

Terms of the Kalium Canyon Option

Under the terms of the Agreement, Badger can earn a 100% interest in Kalium Canyon by making cash payments of US$1.75 million and US$5.0 million in exploration expenditures subject the following schedule:

$25,000 cash on the date of signing the Agreement;

$50,000 cash and $250,000 in exploration on or before the first anniversary;

$100,000 cash and $500,000 in exploration on or before the second anniversary;

$100,000 cash and $1,000,000 in exploration on or before the third anniversary;

$250,000 cash and $1,500,000 in exploration on or before the fourth anniversary; and

$1,225,000 cash and $1,750,000 in exploration on or before the fifth anniversary of the Effective Date.

Upon exercising the option, Badger will grant to Orogen a 2% NSR of which 0.5% can be purchased for U$2.0 million. Upon commencement of commercial production, Badger will also make a one-time payment of US$5.00 per ounce gold equivalent contained on an NI 43-101 reserves and resources estimate on a Feasibility Study to a maximum of US$10.0 million.

The Kalium Canyon project also includes the "Marty" claims, that the Company recently acquired from Bridgeport Gold Inc. ("Bridgeport"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Sandstorm Gold Royalties (TSX:SSL). The Company paid Bridgeport a total consideration of 100,000 Orogen shares. The Company received conditional acceptance from TSX Venture Exchange on June 17, 2021.

Qualified Person Statement

All technical data, as disclosed in this press release, has been verified by Laurence Pryer, Ph.D., P.Geo., Exploration Manager for Orogen. Dr. Pryer is a qualified person as defined under the terms of National Instrument 43-101.

About Orogen Royalties Inc.

Orogen Royalties Inc. is focused on organic royalty creation and royalty acquisitions on precious and base metal discoveries in western North America. Orogen's royalty portfolio includes the Ermitano West gold deposit in Sonora, Mexico (2% NSR royalty) being developed by First Majestic Silver Corp. and the Silicon gold project (1% NSR royalty) in Nevada, USA, being advanced by AngloGold Ashanti N.A. The Company is well financed with several projects actively being developed by joint venture partners.

On Behalf of the Board

OROGEN ROYALTIES INC.

Paddy Nicol

President & CEO

To find out more about Orogen, please contact Paddy Nicol, President & CEO at 604-248-8648, and Liliana Wong, Manager of Marketing and Investor Relations at 604-248-8648. Visit our website at www.orogenroyalties.com.

Orogen Royalties Inc.

1201 - 510 West Hastings Street

Vancouver, BC

Canada V6B 1L8

info@orogenroyalties.com

Forward Looking Information

This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward looking statements". All statements in this presentation, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that Orogen Royalties Inc. (the "Company") expect to occur, are forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur.

Forward looking information relates to statements concerning the Company's future outlook and anticipated events or results, as well as the Company's management expectations with respect to the proposed business combination (the "Transaction"). This document also contains forward-looking statements regarding the anticipated completion of the Transaction and timing thereof. Forward-looking statements in this document are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the Company, including expectations and assumptions concerning the receipt, in a timely manner, of regulatory and stock exchange approvals in respect of the Transaction.

Although the Company believe the expectations expressed in such forward looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include market prices, exploitation and exploration successes, and continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Furthermore, the extent to which COVID-19 may impact the Company's business will depend on future developments such as the geographic spread of the disease, the duration of the outbreak, travel restrictions, physical distancing, business closures or business disruptions, and the effectiveness of actions taken in Canada and other countries to contain and treat the disease. Although it is not possible to reliably estimate the length or severity of these developments and their financial impact as of the date of approval of these condensed interim consolidated financial statements, continuation of the prevailing conditions could have a significant adverse impact on the Company's financial position and results of operations for future periods.

Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.

SOURCE: Orogen Royalties Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655553/Orogen-Options-the-Kalium-Canyon-Project-to-Badger-Minerals
PARIS, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- SKEMA Business School announces the signing of a new agreement with New York University School of Professional Studies (NYU SPS) Division of Programs in Business (DPB).

This agreement will establish the creation and launch, in New York City, of a customized course that will serve to complement the courses offered by SKEMA's Global Luxury and Management (GLAM) program-an MSc accredited by the French Conference des Grandes Ecoles. The program, which is open to students holding a bachelor's degree or higher, affords a one-year and a two-year track, with a limited cohort of 50 students. Four courses will be offered by NYU SPS- starting by NYU SPS/SKEMA Business School 2021 'Luxury Business Ethics'.

Students will spend their first semester in the United States on SKEMA's American campus (Raleigh, NC) as well as on the NYU SPS campus, and will continue their second semester on the new 'Grand Paris Campus' (France) Flagship which opened early 2021.

Living present luxury and thinking its future

In addition to the courses given at NYU SPS, the program includes a study tour of New York City, including visits to major luxury companies such as Tiffany & Co.

According to Anthony Ledru, President & CEO of Tiffany & Co, a 1995 SKEMA alumnus and member of the GLAM program board: 'The United States are one of the leading luxury markets. To be able to understand it from inside with its actors on the field is an undeniable added value for a young graduate who ambitions to start a career in this sector.'

In addition, the GLAM MSc allows students to understand the diversified world of luxury - Paris, New York, Champagne, Cannes or Monaco - through a wide range of sectors: fashion, hotels, travel, automotive, yachting, services... The program also addresses the new challenges of luxury - CSR & sustainability, digitalization and client centric processes - and ends with the completion of a master thesis and an internship of at least 4 months.

According to Patrice Houdayer, Vice Dean in charge of programs, international and student life: 'The development of strategic agreements is one of the pillars of our SKY25 strategic plan (SKEMA Years 2020-2025). The choice of NYU SPS, already recognized for its expertise in the luxury sector, illustrates this perfectly and allows our students to access to one of the best universities in the field.'

The cost of the program is 25,000 for 1 year or 35,000 for the 2-year MSc format.

PS: The program is also accessible at no extra cost to students from SKEMA's Grande Ecole Program/Master in Management.

Contact: Christine Cassabois, Christine.cassabois@skema.edu

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1574909/SKEMA_and_NYU_School_of_Professional_Studies.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/931024/SKEMA_Logo.jpg
FUME has pioneered a proprietary extraction process that removes terpenes from the plant without the use of solvents, guaranteeing a pure, true-to-strain product

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Humble & Fume Inc. (CSE: HMBL) ("Humble"), a leading integrated cannabis distribution platform in North America, announced today the launch of FUME, a cannabis extracts brand delivering a pure and flavorful cannabis experience. FUME products are dedicated to the high frequency, discerning cannabis user seeking access to a wide range of benefits from cannabis.

"FUME is at the forefront of cannabis innovation and is passionate about pushing the limits of extracts to create pure and flavorful concentrates," said Joel Toguri, CEO of Humble. "Unlike most products available in Canada, FUME's production process uses solventless terpene extraction of the cannabis plant to deliver highly differentiated, natural flavor profiles to our line-up of vapes. FUME is the only extractor in Canada to use this proprietary technique in market, giving consumers a 'true to flower' experience and natural plant benefits comparable to smoking cannabis in its traditional form."

Humble also announced the release of two new FUME products:

Mango ZKS Full Spectrum Pax Pod is a small batch grown, premium vape with an uplifting fresh mango flavor. The proprietary solventless terpene extraction is paired with a low and slow CO2 extraction to capture all the terpenes and cannabinoids, crafted to deliver a flavor and experience identical to smoking the flower.

Hash Rosin 24K Gold is hand-crafted using single source, craft-grown flower to produce a light citrus flavor and a true indica experience when smoked or vaped.

These new products will play a critical role in the development of FUME's brand extension TR Signature, which features small batch, craft grown strains that are hand crafted into premium extracts for limited edition drops. The TR Signature line of cannabis vapes, and concentrates are tailored to Canada's most discerning cannabis connoisseurs and are available in select retailers in Ontario.

"Despite the fact that Canada remains ahead of the U.S. as it pertains to the legalization of cannabis, it lags behind in terms of the offering of natural and specialized cannabis concentrates. That said, demand for high quality, pure and innovative concentrates is on the rise; it is estimated that vapes and concentrates will command 18% of the Canadian market by the end of 20211. FUME is well positioned to capitalize on this trend, and we expect to capture our fair share of this under-saturated segment of the cannabis market," Mr. Toguri said.

About Humble & Fume Inc.

Humble & Fume is one of North America's leading cannabis distribution solutions providing customer-centric services and accessories. Humble & Fume works with over 200 leading industry brands and offer more than 10,000 accessories and extract products, and is the only major cannabis industry player to provide a fully integrated cannabis and accessories distribution solution with complete sales, distribution, and trade marketing support. Servicing more than 3,000 clients continent-wide, we can reach 90% of North American customers within 48 hours. Leveraging decades of North American Cannabis industry experience, we are committed to being a leading partner and brand representative by offering a comprehensive portfolio of leading brands and products to head shops, smoke shops, dispensaries, and consumers.

For more information, please visit https://www.humbleandfumeinc.com/.

About FUME

FUME is an extraction company focused on creating full-spectrum extracts that offer an authentic experience and uncompromising quality. Our mission is to push the boundaries of solventless and solvent-based extraction to pursue the best full-spectrum extracts our cultivars have to offer. The Brantford, Ontario-based company provides end-to-end production and distribution of market-ready products delivering premium and true-to-flower cannabis experiences.

For more information, please visit https://www.fumeextracts.com/.

Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the proposed listing on the CSE, the focus of the Company's business, and intentions of those subject to early warning disclosure requirements. Any such forward-looking statements may be identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "contemplates", "believes", "projects", "plans" and similar expressions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Statements about, among other things, the expected listing and trading on the CSE, Humble & Fume Inc.'s strategic plans and the intentions of those subject to early warning disclosure requirements are all forward-looking information. These statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those implied by such statements. Although such statements are based on management's reasonable assumptions, there can be no assurance that the listing and trading of the Company's shares on the CSE will occur or that, if they do occur, they will be completed on the terms and timing described above. The Company assumes no responsibility to update or revise forward-looking information to reflect new events or circumstances or actual results unless required by applicable law. Readers are encouraged to refer to the Listing Statement for information as to the risks and other factors which may effect the Company's business objectives and strategic plans.

For more information, please contact:

Company Contact:

Edge Communications Group

Email: invest@humbleandfume.com

Phone: 1-778-400-7894

Investor Contact:

Allison Soss

KCSA Strategic Communications

Email: humbleandfume@kcsa.com

Phone: 212-896-1267

On behalf of the Board of Directors:

Shawn Dym, Executive Chairman

Email: invest@humbleandfume.com

Phone: 1-778-400-7894

1 Industry Report: Cannabis Market Projections for US and Canada: April 2021

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90307
Number of active businesses transacting on the Tradeshift platform rises by 52 per cent year on year as large enterprises prioritize digitalization of manual process to support post-pandemic growth

Large organizations are accelerating the digitalization of manual process across supply chains according to Tradeshift, a leader in e-invoicing and accounts payable automation, which has signed 20 new deals for global enterprise customers since the beginning of its financial year on February 1st.

Tradeshift continued to expand its portfolio of major customers, with wins including one of the world's leading luxury brands. The company also continued to reinforce its leadership across key verticals, adding DB Schenker to its transport logistics roster, and signing a global deal with one of the most well-known companies in the consumer packaged goods sector. Meanwhile the number of active businesses transacting on the Tradeshift platform rose by 52 per cent year on year.

"We founded Tradeshift with a vision to connect every company in the world, digitally. A great start to the year has helped us take yet another step towards realising that vision," said Christian Lanng, CEO, Tradeshift. "Tradeshift's network model and our value proposition for suppliers set us apart from the majority of legacy systems which have done a fairly lousy job of digitizing the relationship between buyers and suppliers. Buyers are choosing Tradeshift because they are confident that suppliers will buy into our network approach."

Tradeshift's winning streak was underpinned by the company's thriving partner programme, which includes 10 global BPOs within a global ecosystem of more than 50 specialist resellers, technology vendors and solutions providers over 70% of new deals this financial year have been won in conjunction with a partner.

"With economies opening up, we are well positioned to support the wholesale digitalization of business processes. For organizations looking to grow in a post-COVID economy, this is fast becoming an organizational standard," said Christope Bodin, Chief Revenue Officer, Tradeshift. "The quality of our partner relationships will play an absolutely vital role in helping us to maximize the opportunities in front of us. It's also important that we're continuing to attract and retain the superior talent necessary to take us to the next level."

Tradeshift has made a series of strategic hires this year to bolster its leadership team as the company seeks to build on the sales momentum across its key territories. James Stirk, formerly of Financialforce, joined Tradeshift as Vice President, Sales for EMEA and APAC, while Christian Teuscher has joined from Anaplan as Vice President, Global Sales Operations. Jim Rahill has been promoted to Vice President, Sales for North America.

About Tradeshift

Tradeshift is a market leader in e-invoicing and accounts payable automation and an innovator in B2B marketplaces and providing access to supplier financing. Its cloud-based platform helps buyers and suppliers digitize invoice processing, automate accounts payable workflows and scale quickly. Headquartered in San Francisco, Tradeshift's vision is to connect every company in the world, creating economic opportunity for all. Today, the Tradeshift platform is home to a rapidly growing community of buyers and sellers operating in more than 190 countries. Find out more at: Tradeshift.com

Forward-looking statements

Any statements contained in this document that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Tradeshift undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations. 2021 Tradeshift Holdings Inc. All rights reserved.

Tradeshift products and services mentioned herein as well as their respective logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of Tradeshift Holdings Inc. in the US and other countries.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005478/en/

Contacts:

For more information, contact:

Harry Ronaldson

pr@tradeshift.com
TORONTO, ON and NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / GlobeX Data Ltd. (OTCQB:SWISF)(CSE:SWIS)(FRA:GDT) ("GlobeX" or the "Company"), the leader in Swiss-hosted secure communications and secure data management, is pleased to announce that, as part of its US mass-marketing strategy to bring awareness to GlobeX Data's Sekur solution, it has launched, as of today July 15 2021, its first 60-second TV commercial on NTD, which is to be played three times per day, seven days per week, and run for an entire 12-month period, reaching over 50 million households nationally in the United States. GlobeX Data had previously announced its plan to produce the TV commercial in a press release dated June 8 2021.

The commercial describes Sekur 's attributes as the leading Swiss hosted Privacy and Security communications application, such as encrypted email and secure messaging, including Sekur 's unique proprietary feature called Chats-by-Invites, letting a Sekur user message a non-Sekur user, without the recipient having to download Sekur and without any external entity being able to read or data-mine the conversation.

The commercial can be seen here as well: Sekur 60 seconds TV Commercial .

According to this article on NTD , NTD began its TV broadcasts in the United States on Verizon/Frontier FiOS channel 158 in July 2020. In less than a year, NTD became a nationwide over-the-air (OTA) network, with cable distribution in New York, the District of Columbia, Philadelphia, Boston, Los Angeles, and Chicago. NTD is currently available nationwide in the United States and reaches over 50 million households through OTA TV stations and cable.

NTD currently broadcasts in the USA under these channels: https://www.ntd.com/tv-providers.html

NTD delivers independent news, current affairs, classical arts, and culture programs. It is a global, multilingual, U.S.-based television broadcaster founded in 2001.

Since July 2020, NTD has expanded from one main cable channel, to multiple cable and over-the-air ("OTA") channels in most major cities in the USA including New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington DC, Houston, Atlanta, Seattle areas, Philadelphia and more.

NTD is available on all devices, and can be watched live online at any time: NTD.com/live.html. Currently, NTD is ranked No. 8 among the top 100 Youtubers News & Politics Channels by monthly views in the United States. Alain Ghiai, CEO of GlobeX Data said: 'We are excited to have partnered with NTD on this project as we are embarking on a marketing program to bring true data privacy and security to all Americans, and as we are now officially launching Sekur in the United States. NTD is a fast-growing network and understands the value of Privacy we offer through our communications solutions. NTD's target audience is a perfect match for Sekur and we look forward to a long and fruitful mutually beneficial business relationship. NTD's audience will come to know the many critical features provided by Globex Data's Sekur , such as, Swiss hosted data privacy and security, and the right for consumers and businesses not to have their data mined by third party service providers. As we are not connected, and never have been connected, to AWS, Microsoft Azure or Google Cloud platforms, commonly referred to as "Big Tech", we can offer a truly independent, private and secure means of communications through our proprietary technology and our secure servers based in Switzerland. We are looking forward to offer true data privacy and no data mining to all Americans and we are looking forward to tell our story through NTD's network."

Sekur , which includes SekurMessenger as part of a bundle of email, messaging and file transfer into one application, includes the Company's latest SekurMail technology, which includes proprietary anti-phishing and privacy feature called SekurSend . SekurSend  lets a user send an email to any other recipient, whether they have Sekur or not, in full privacy and security as the email never leaves Sekur 's encrypted email servers based in Switzerland. The recipient can then click on the notification and reply in the same manner using SekurReply  , without the recipient having to register for a Sekur account. The sender can also decide to protect any email sent by adding a password to open it, a read-limit and a self-destruct timer as well. Sending an email with the SekurSend  feature allows the senders and recipients to add limitless size attachments to the emails without crowding the recipients' email box. This also eliminates BEC attacks for businesses and email phishing attacks. Additionally, SekurMail includes full control of email delivery, automatic data export for large Enterprises and an automatic Data Loss Prevention technology ("DLP") with real time continuous archiving. Recent data breaches in messaging applications and in particular in the WhatsApp application have created a certain urgency for businesses and data privacy advocates to protect their communications form cyber-attacks and identity theft via mobile and desktop devices. SekurMessenger eliminates many of the privacy and security risks by not only not requiring a phone number, which would divulge a user's phone device ID, but also by not social engineering a user's phone or computer contact list and infecting the contacts by default as well, eliminating a huge loophole in security and privacy. SekurMessenger issues each user a username and a SM number. The SM number is the contact ID a user would disclose in order for other SM users to be added. The service comes with a self-destruct timer and other features as well, including GlobeX's proprietary VirtualVaults and HeliX technologies with all data stored in Swiss hosted encrypted servers. Additionally, SekurMessenger now comes with a proprietary feature and technology called Chat by Invites. This feature allows a SekurMessenger user ("SM user") invite a non-SM user, or a group of non-SM users, to chat in a fully private and secure way, without the recipient ever having to register to SekurMessenger or download the app. At the end of the chat, the initiator of the conversation can remotely terminate the conversation and all traces of the conversation are deleted from all users, including the recipient. This unique feature is now fully deployed and functional on all iOS and Android devices and web platforms. The target sectors are numerous, including but not limited to real estate, legal, financial, government, energy, mining, manufacturing, trade and medical sectors. GlobeX's Data privacy solutions are all hosted in Switzerland, protecting users' data from any outside data intrusion requests. In Switzerland, the right to privacy is guaranteed in article 13 of the Swiss Federal Constitution. The Federal Act on Data Protection ("FADP") of 19 June 1992 (in force since 1993) has set up a strict protection of privacy by prohibiting virtually any processing of personal data which is not expressly authorized by the data subjects. The protection is subject to the authority of the Federal Data Protection and Information Commissioner. Under Swiss federal law, it is a crime to publish information based on leaked "secret official discussions." In 2010 the Federal Supreme Court of Switzerland found that IP addresses are personal information and that under Swiss privacy laws they may not be used to track Internet usage without the knowledge of the individuals involved. About GlobeX Data Ltd.

GlobeX Data Ltd. is a Cybersecurity and Internet privacy provider of Swiss hosted solutions for secure communications and secure data management. The Company distributes a suite of encrypted e-mails, secure messengers, secure communication tools, and secure cloud-based storage, disaster recovery, document management, . GlobeX Data Ltd. sells its products through its approved wholesalers and distributors, and telecommunications companies worldwide. GlobeX Data Ltd. serves consumers, businesses and governments worldwide. On behalf of Management

GLOBEX DATA LTD.

Alain Ghiai

President and Chief Executive Officer

+1.416.644.8690

corporate@globexdatagroup.com

For more information, please contact GlobeX Data at corporate@globexdatagroup.com or visit us at https://globexdata.com .

For more information on Sekur visit us at: https://www.sekur.com .

Forward Looking Information

This news release contains certain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws ('forward-looking statements'). All statements other than statements of present or historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as 'anticipate', 'achieve', 'could', 'believe', 'plan', 'intend', 'objective', 'continuous', 'ongoing', 'estimate', 'outlook', 'expect', 'project' and similar words, including negatives thereof, suggesting future outcomes or that certain events or conditions 'may' or 'will' occur. These statements are only predictions. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations; they are not guaranteeing future performance. GlobeX cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond GlobeX's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to the future of the Company's business; the success of marketing and sales efforts of the Company; the projections prepared in house and projections delivered by channel partners; the Company's ability to complete the necessary software updates; increases in sales as a result of investments software development technology; consumer interest in the Products; future sales plans and strategies; reliance on large channel partners and expectations of renewals to ongoing agreements with these partners; anticipated events and trends; the economy and other future conditions; and other risks and uncertainties, including those described in GlobeX's prospectus dated May 8, 2019 filed with the Canadian Securities Administrators and available on www.sedar.com. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, GlobeX undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information. SOURCE: GlobeX Data Ltd.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655639/GlobeX-Data-Officially-Launches-Sekur-in-the-USA-with-TV-Commercial-on-NTD--Reaching-Over-50-Million-Households-Nationwide
LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / XS Financial Inc. ("XS Financial", "XSF" or the "Company") (CSE:XSF)(OTCQB:XSHLF), a specialty finance company providing equipment leasing solutions to cannabis companies in the United States, announced today that it has doubled its revolving credit facility from $2 million to $4 million, with an FDIC insured bank, which has a term of two (2) years, expiring in November 2022. XS Financial has also received an increased advance rate on the credit facility. Loans made under the revolving facility will bear interest at an annual rate equal to the greater of i) eight percent (8.0%) per annum or ii) the Wall Street Journal Prime plus four percent (4.0%) and may be prepaid with no penalty at any time. All dollar amounts are in $USD.

The loans under the credit agreement contain customary financial covenants for transactions of this type, including limitations with respect to indebtedness, liens, and disposition of assets.

XS Financial intends to use such loan proceeds, together with cash on hand, to fund additional equipment leases with new and existing customers.

Justin Vuong, SVP of Corporate Development at XS Financial commented: "We are excited to have our funding capacity increased from our existing FDIC bank lender. This upsized line of credit is a positive sign of support behind our strong funding growth in recent months. XS Financial continues to increase its funding commitments to existing and new customers while remaining focused on client service. We look forward to expanding our relationship with our FDIC bank lender as we achieve new milestones."

About XS Financial

XS Financial provides the U.S. cannabis industry access to competitively-priced, non-dilutive CAPEX financing solutions. Founded in 2017, the Company specializes in providing financing for equipment and other qualified capital expenditures to growing cannabis companies, including cultivators, processors, manufacturers and testing laboratories. In addition, XSF has partnered with over 150 original equipment manufacturers (OEM) through its network of Preferred Vendor partnerships. This powerful dynamic provides an end-to-end solution for customers, resulting in recurring revenues, strong profit margins, and a proven business model for XSF stakeholders. The Company's subordinate voting shares are traded on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol "XSF" and in the United States on the OTCQB under the symbol " XSHLF." For more information, visit: www.xsfinancial.com.

For inquiries please contact:

David Kivitz

Chief Executive Officer

Antony Radbod

Chief Operating Officer

Tel: 1-310-683-2336

Email: ir@xsfinancial.com

Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains "forward-looking information" and may also contain statements that may constitute "forward-looking statements", collectively "forward-looking information", within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking information is not representative of historical facts or information or current condition, but instead represent the beliefs and expectations regarding future events about the business and the industry and markets in which XS Financial operates, as well as plans or objectives of management, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain. Generally, such forward-looking information can be identified by the use of terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or may contain statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "will continue", "will occur" or "will be achieved". Forward-looking information contained herein may include but is not limited to, any additional leasing opportunities and the ability to capitalize on such and the timing thereof. Forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions which are difficult to predict. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information, which are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. XS Financial Inc., does not undertake any obligation to release publicly any revisions for updating any voluntary forward-looking information, except as required by applicable securities law.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: XS Financial

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655595/XS-Financial-Doubles-Its-Revolving-Credit-Line-With-FDIC-Bank-and-Receives-Improved-Terms
TPT Global Tech, Inc. appoints Khandwala Securities Limited (KSL India) as financial advisors and investment bankers to support their India Corporate initiative and to set up Industrial Smart City in India, while KSL India brings over 8 decades of financial advisory and investment banking experience.

SAN DIEGO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / TPT Global Tech, Inc. ("TPTW or TPT Global Tech") (OTCQB:TPTW) www.tptglobaltech.com based in San Diego, California, a technology-based company with divisions providing telecommunications, medical technology, media content for domestic and international syndication as well as technology solutions, today announced that they have appointed Khandwala Securities Limited as their financial advisors and investment bankers for six months to set up Industrial Smart City in India as per their India Corporate initiative. Fees will be on a project or assignment basis.

Khandwala Securities Limited (KSL India) brings over 8 decades of financial advisory and investment banking experience in managing clients across India and global markets. KSL India has been consistently delivering exceptional results to their clients since 1934 in India, the US, Europe, Middle East, Africa, and South-East Asia. KSL India understands its clients' needs and goals and provides its clients with comprehensive and personalized services catering to their specific needs through a strong research, trading, and investment banking team.

TPT Global Tech's Chairman & CEO, Stephen J. Thomas III quoted, "We are planning to set up an Industrial Smart City in India which will house various industries focused around Aerospace & Defence, 5G Telecommunications, Electronics & Information Technology Industry, R&D and Innovations Industry, IoT and Cyber Security Industry, Bio-Technology Industry, and Electric & Future Mobility Industry. TPT Global Tech and its group companies will add value through transformative digital technologies including FinTech, SaaS, IoT, AI, ML, VR, Blockchain, etc. which will all play a pivotal role in the Indian growth story."

Mr. Thomas further said, "The Industrial Smart City planning that we have initiated will focus on liveability, workability, and sustainability. This will further help develop a cohesive cluster in and around the region where the Industrial Smart City will be set up. Further, the Industrial Smart City plans to bring co-investments of over $3 B US into the region through various industries that we plan to launch. The overall development of the Industrial Smart City location and its surrounding cities we believe will lead to the creation of approx. 21,000 direct jobs and approx. 90,000 indirect jobs that will increase perpetually with the growth that we envision over the next two decades."

Major General John F. Wharton (US Army, Retd.), Board of Advisors of the Company as well as President of its Global Defence Division quoted, "The Industrial Smart City will support further Investments and provide complete handholding to develop Indigenous Technology, Research & Development for SMEs & Start-ups. The ancillary units, specifically SMEs in and around the Industrial Smart City location will benefit hugely from the backward & forward linkages along with business opportunities that will be created for them by connecting them directly with global companies thereby facilitating technology transfer and mass production across sectors of interest for the US, India and other global markets."

Mr. Paresh J. Khandwala, Chairman & MD, Khandwala Securities Limited quoted, "We are excited and keen to assist TPT Global Tech with their objective to build an Industrial Smart City that will add value and provide global influence to India across multiple industries targeted through this initiative. We envision that we will assist TPT Global Tech in investing up to $100M US as Co-Founders in setting up the Smart City and bringing expertise across technology, manufacturing, and R&D. We wish to bring partners that will resonate with this objective and help develop core infrastructure, technology innovation centers, serve mass entrepreneurship while building a new financial system. Our constant focus will be on internationalization, marketization, and innovation through the Industrial Smart City. We are positive about the collaboration as TPT Global Tech's Leadership has direct access to several US Aerospace & Defence Companies who are keen to build their presence through facilities in the Industrial Smart City as Technology Partners and OEMs by setting up local manufacturing facilities."

Mr. Harnish Gajjar, Chief Strategy Officer & Country Director (India), TPT Global Tech, Inc. further added, "The Smart City initiative will design, develop and help thrive multiple industries under the pretext of 'Industrial Smart City' which will feature high-grade, high-precision and advanced industries, along with Smart Airports, Smart Hospitals, Smart Transportation, Smart Hotels and their overall integration with this thriving ecosystem while adding huge economic value. The overall objective is to be a champion pacesetter in strategic capital orientation, major industry upgrades, and innovation-driven developments."

About TPT Global Tech, Inc.

TPT Global Tech Inc. based in San Diego, California, is a technology-based company with divisions providing telecommunications, medical technology and product distribution, media content for domestic and international syndication as well as technology solutions. TPT Global Tech offers Software as a Service (SaaS), Technology Platform as a Service (PAAS), Cloud-based Unified Communication as a Service (UCaaS). It offers carrier-grade performance and support for businesses over its private IP MPLS fiber and wireless network in the United States. TPT's cloud-based UCaaS services allow businesses of any size to enjoy all the latest voice, data, media, and collaboration features in today's global technology markets. TPT Global Tech also operates as a Master Distributor for Nationwide Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNO) and Independent Sales Organization (ISO) as a Master Distributor for Pre-Paid Cell phone services, Mobile phones Cell phone Accessories and Global Roaming Cell phones.

For more information about how TPT Global Tech's technologies please contact Shep Doniger at 561-637-5750 sdoniger@bdcginc.com or Frank Benedetto 619-915-9422

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of various provisions of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, commonly identified by such terms as "believes," "looking ahead," "anticipates," "estimates" and other terms with similar meaning. Specifically, statements about the Company's plans for accelerated growth, improved profitability, future business partners, M&A activity, new service offerings, and pursuit of new markets are forward-looking statements. Although the company believes that the assumptions upon which its forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, it can give no assurance that these assumptions will prove to be correct. Such forward-looking statements should not be construed as fact. The information contained in such statements is beyond the ability of the Company to control, and in many cases, the Company cannot predict what factors would cause results to differ materially from those indicated in such statements. All forward-looking statements in the press release are expressly qualified by these cautionary statements and by reference to the underlying assumptions.

SOURCE: TPT Global Tech, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655655/TPT-Global-Tech-Inc-Appoints-Financial-Advisors-and-Investment-Bankers-To-Set-Up-Industrial-Smart-City-In-India
The company filed its application with the OTC Markets to become a Pink Sheets reporting company.

SENECA, PA / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / QRS Music Technologies, Inc. (OTC PINK:QRSM), a leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of audio, digital and multimedia products, music content, piano technologies, Story & Clark pianos, and other digital audio accessories, is pleased to release the following Shareholder Update.

The company filed its application with the OTC Markets to become a Pink Sheets reporting company. The Company is working with its PCAOB auditing firm to prepare the appropriate annual financial statements for reporting in September. This initiative to upgrade to the next level, OTCBB, positions the Company and its business focus closer to achieving its ultimate trading and growth goals.

QRS Music Technologies, Inc. (OTCB:QRSM) is a leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of digital music technologies, pianos and piano accessories. Brands include PNOmation, PNOscan, PNOtouch, Sync-Along, QRS-Connect, and Story & Clark Pianos. QRS also manufactures and distributes other unique musical instrument digital interface (MIDI) technologies and novelties. QRS offers market-focused solutions for artists, composers, teachers, home, hospitality and education. QRS continues to innovate with patented and patent-pending music content and music content delivery technologies. QRS, since its founding in 1900, keeps alive a slice of Americana - player piano music roll production and creation. QRS is the creator of Pianomation, now PNOmation, the first MIDI system to combine analog and digital technology to turn any piano into a reproducing player piano.

QRS Music was founded in 1900 and is based in Seneca, Pennsylvania. Additional information about QRS is available at www.qrsmusic.com, 1-800-247-6557 and text at 814-676-6683.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements made in this news release that relate to future plans, events or performances are forward-looking statements. Any statements containing words, such as 'believes,' 'should,' 'anticipates,' 'plans' or 'expects,' as well as other statements, are forward-looking and those statements involve risks and uncertainties outside of the control of QRS and are based on current expectations. Consequently, actual results could differ materially from the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements.

Media Contact:

Parker Welch

814-493-6538

parkerw@qrsinc.com

SOURCE: QRS Music Technologies, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655564/QRS-Music-Technologies-Inc-Announces-Shareholder-Update
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / Gambier Gold Corp. (TSX-V:GGAU) (the "Company") is pleased to announce the completion of the first phase of sonic drilling on its Detour West property ("Detour West" or, the "Project") in Northern Ontario, which consisted of deep till sampling by means of sonic drilling, in addition to remote sensing surveys.

Forty-nine sonic holes were drilled during the first phase of deep till sampling at Detour West, for a total of 2241.5 m. The program completed more holes than originally planned thanks to better-than-expected available summer access within the permitted drill grid. The holes intersected Quaternary glaciogenic sediment and small amounts of upper bedrock on a grid over GEOTEM and airborne magnetic survey geophysical targets of interest along the Sunday Lake Deformation Zone and Lower Detour Deformation Zones. Cores were logged and sampled at Gambier Gold's core lab facility in Cochrane, Ontario, and samples were sent for analysis to multiple laboratories as described in the May 10, 2021 news release. A total of 2,295 samples were collected and submitted for assay including 1452 samples for fine fraction geochemistry, 393 samples for visible gold grain analysis, 393 samples for heavy-mineral concentrate geochemistry, and 57 samples for lithogeochemistry. The Company is currently receiving final assay data in batches and will announce the final results of the first phase till sampling program once all sample data have been received and interpreted. The expected sample assay delivery time is mid to late August, 2021.

In addition to the sonic drill program, the Company completed the acquisition of an additional 173 square kilometers of high-resolution LiDAR to provide coverage over the additional tenure staked in March, 2021. The LiDAR data will be used to assist planning the next phase of winter sonic drilling and exploration.

"The first phase of deep till sampling using sonic drilling at Detour West was successful in recovering Quaternary glaciogenic sediments from surface down to bedrock. We were able to drill several transects over large, interpreted structures of the Sunday Lake Deformation Zone, and recover bedrock samples as well as sediment in an effort to identify and interpret the origin of potential mineralized dispersal trains. The completed program represents a very small fraction of the 39,217 hectares of prospective terrain, and we are looking forward to continuing our methodical exploration approach at Detour West as many high priority geophysical and structural targets remain untested.", stated Michael Burns, VP Exploration for Gambier Gold.

"The completion of the first sonic drill program sets Gambier on a new path of systematic exploration at Detour West. We are proud of our team for achieving more than expected during a challenging spring break-up drill program and look forward to the results. We strongly believe Gambier holds one of the best pre-discovery Greenfields projects, in an underexplored part of one of Canada's most prolific gold districts, the Detour-Fenelon Gold Belt" stated Michael Schuss, CEO and President for Gambier Gold.

Qualified Person Statement

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release was prepared and approved by QP Don Cummings, PhD., P.Geo., and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101).

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Michael E. Schuss

President & CEO

For further information, please contact:

Gambier Gold Corp.

Phone: (604) 241-2254

E-mail: info@gambier.gold

Website: www.gambier.gold

Forward-Looking Statement (Safe Harbor Statement): This press release contains forward looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The use of any of the words "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "expect", "estimate", "objective", "may", "will", "project", "should", "predict", "potential" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward looking statements. In particular, this press release contains forward looking statements concerning the Company's exploration plans. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward looking statements because the Company cannot give any assurance that they will prove correct. Since forward looking statements address future events and conditions, they involve inherent assumptions, risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of assumptions, factors and risks. These assumptions and risks include, but are not limited to, assumptions and risks associated with conditions in the equity financing markets, and assumptions and risks regarding receipt of regulatory and shareholder approvals.

Management has provided the above summary of risks and assumptions related to forward looking statements in this press release in order to provide readers with a more comprehensive perspective on the Company's future operations. The Company's actual results, performance or achievement could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward looking statements and, accordingly, no assurance can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do so, what benefits the Company will derive from them. These forward looking statements are made as of the date of this press release, and, other than as required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any forward looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: Gambier Gold Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655662/Gambier-Gold-Corp-TSX-V-GGAU-Completes-First-Phase-of-Deep-Till-Sampling-at-Detour-West
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / EYEFI Group Technologies Inc. (CSE:EGTI)(OTC PINK:EGTTF) ("the "Company") has retained Gale Capital Corporation to provide investor relations ("IR") services on behalf of the Company pursuant to an arms length, 12-month IR agreement dated July 15, 2021 which can be terminated on 30 days notice by either party (the "Agreement").

Gale is engaged to assist with investor relations activities, including communicating and marketing to potential investors, brokers, shareholders and media contacts.

Founded by principal Mark van der Horst in 1993, Gale Capital Corporation is an established capital markets advisory firm that specializes in corporate consulting and investor relations activities. Mr. van der Horst and Gale Capital Corp. are both shareholders of the Company, with combined shareholdings of about 2% of the Issuer's issued Share Capital and 120,000 Warrants, having invested in the last placement in March 2021.

Under the terms signed, Gale has been granted 100,000 incentive stock options to acquire common shares of the Company ("Shares") with an exercise price of $0.71 per share. In the event of early termination of the Agreement, the number of options would reduce accordingly. The options vest over the 12-month term of the Agreement with no more than 25% of the options vesting in any three-month period and expire on termination of the Agreement. The Shares issued upon exercise of the options will have a hold period of four months and one day from the date of issue of the Shares.

Mark can be reached at mark@galecapital.com, Office: 604 200-1480, Cell 604 760-7604.

About EYEfi in Detail:

EYEfi is connecting the world's people and devices with the world around them, in real-time and in ways not previously possible.

EYEfi is a software and electronics engineering company that has developed, patented and commercialized an innovative spatial technology; spatial, predictive, approximation and radial convolution (SPARC) and an associated product suite, that turns sensors, cameras and smartphones (fixed, mobile, airborne, portable or handheld) into geo-target co-ordinate acquisition devices.

EYEfi has also developed IIoT sensor hardware and associated cloud software, as a second pillar within its product offering. EYEfi Cloud is a next generation cloud platform that provides a secure and centralized environment where customers can manage their EYEfi product deployments and applications.

On behalf of the board of directors of

EYEFI GROUP TECHNOLOGIES INC.

"Simon Langdon"

Simon Langdon, CEO

For more information contact:

Simon Langdon

Chief Executive Officer

EYEfi Group Technologies Inc.

Mark van der Horst

Investor Relations

EYEfi Group Technologies Inc.

Telephone: +1 (604) 760 7604

Email: mark@galecapital.com

THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS RELEASE. NO SECURITIES COMMISSION OR OTHER REGULATORY AUTHORITY HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN.

FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements relate to future events or future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements or information.

The forward-looking statements are based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, opinions and analyses of management made in light of its experience and perception of historical trends in the delivery of services through its Cloud, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors management of the Company believes are appropriate, relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made. All of these assumptions, estimates and opinions will necessarily be subject to change due to future events and other circumstances outside the control of the Company, including the effect of the Covid 19 virus. The Company has based the forward looking information on various material assumptions, including: despite the threat of the Covid 19 virus, the Company will sustain or increase profitability although on a slower projection then previously planned, and will be able to fund its operations with existing capital and projected revenue from its current agreements with its Channel Partners; the Company will be able to attract and retain key personnel in future if required; the general business, economic, financial market, regulatory and political conditions in which the Company operates will remain positive as its services can be provided in the Company's Cloud although deliver of its hardware may be affect by supply chain disruptions; that the general regulatory environment will not change in a manner adverse to the business of the Company; the tax treatment of the Company and its subsidiary will remain constant and the Company will not become subject to any material legal proceedings; the economy generally; competition, and anticipated and unanticipated costs

SOURCE: EYEfi Group Technologies Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655621/EYEFI-Appoints-Gale-Capital-for-Investor-Relations-Activities
Investigational PerQseal Blue designed to be the world's first and only fully absorbable device for large-bore venous closure

Development program funded by 2.5 million grant awarded by the European Innovation Council Accelerator

Vivasure Medical, a company pioneering novel fully absorbable technology for percutaneous vessel closure, today announced its development program for PerQseal Blue, the company's new investigational product. PerQseal Blue is designed exclusively for sutureless and fully absorbable large-bore venous vessel closure following percutaneous cardiovascular procedures, such transcatheter mitral valve repair or replacement (TMVR) and transcatheter tricuspid valve repair or replacement (TTVR). The PerQseal Blue technology is based on PerQseal, the company's vascular closure device approved in Europe for use in femoral arteries.

The PerQseal Blue development program was first initiated in 2020 and is funded in part by a 2.5 million grant awarded by the European Innovation Council Accelerator (EIC). The EIC was part of the European Commission's Horizon 2020 program and supports innovative entrepreneurs, small companies and scientists planning to expand internationally. Vivasure Medical was one of only 36 companies to receive a grant award from the EIC, which reviewed 1,852 applications from EU-based companies. Horizon 2020 is the largest EU research and innovation program, with nearly 80 billion of funding available over seven years.

"As transcatheter procedures for mitral and tricuspid valve treatment become increasingly common, there is a growing need for new venous closure options. These minimally invasive procedures require much larger punctures which often result in vascular complications," said Dr. Azeem Latib, M.D., Section Head of Interventional Cardiology and Medical Director of Structural Heart Interventions at Montefiore Medical Center in New York. "Based on my experience using PerQseal for large-bore arteries in percutaneous endovascular procedures, I am optimistic for the potential of PerQseal Blue to provide a simple and safe option for venous closure that does not leave behind any sutures, metal implants, or collagen."

Currently, there are no sutureless options for venous closure following TMVR or TTVR procedures. PerQseal Blue has the potential to be the first sutureless, fully absorbable synthetic implant for large-bore venous closure following these catheter-based procedures. Leveraging Vivasure Medical's PerQseal technology, PerQseal Blue consists of an intravascular patch designed to seal the vessel from the inside, returning the vein to its natural state.

"We're thrilled to introduce PerQseal Blue to our product development portfolio as a potential new option specifically for large-bore venous closure following percutaneous cardiovascular procedures," said Andrew Glass, CEO of Vivasure Medical. "We plan to advance our venous program to the clinical stage in 2022 with the initiation of a study to evaluate and optimize PerQseal Blue."

PerQseal is currently available to physicians in Europe for use in novel transcatheter endovascular procedures that require large-bore arterial vessel access, including TAVR, thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (TEVAR) and endovascular abdominal aneurysm repair (EVAR). Frontier V, a European multicenter study, was recently initiated to evaluate Vivasure Medical's next-generation PerQseal+ device with an enhanced bioabsorbable patch designed to address more complex patient anatomies. PerQseal+ is intended to provide physicians with an even more robust solution for managing challenges and bleeding complications associated with large-bore arterial closure.

About Vivasure Medical

Based in Galway, Ireland, Vivasure is focused on the development of advanced polymer implants and delivery systems, primarily focused on minimally invasive vessel closure in cardiology, interventional radiology and vascular surgery. Vivasure operates a fully integrated R&D and ISO 13485 certified manufacturing facility and is backed by leading international medtech investors. For more information, please visit www.vivasuremedical.com.

The PerQseal Blue development program has received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under grant agreement No 946304.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005328/en/

Contacts:

Sierra Smith

Health+Commerce

408-540-4296

sierra@healthandcommerce.com
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Aguila American Gold Limited ("Aguila" or the "Company") (TSXV: AGL) (OTCQB: AGLAF) (WKN: A2DR6E) is pleased to announce it has acquired 100% ownership through staking, the Cora copper project, located in Pinal County, Arizona. The project was identified during an extensive and ongoing project generation program targeting copper deposits within mining supportive jurisdictions of North America.

Aguila is focused on copper and precious metal exploration and development within the major mining belts of the Western USA. The Company targets under-explored districts where post-mineralization cover masks areas of high geological prospectivity in the vicinity of major mines.

The Cora project lies 75km NNE of Tucson, within the heart of the southern Arizona copper belt. The project is 100% owned by Aguila, secured by 46 granted BLM lode mining claims covering a total of 3.84 sq km. Many of North America's largest copper mines and development projects lie within 100km of Cora, including Ray, Miami, Resolution, Florence and Silver Bell (see Figure 1). Drilling at Cora was last recorded over 40 years ago, when significant widths of oxidized copper were intersected beneath shallow alluvial cover over an area exceeding 1 square kilometer.

Key Points

The Cora copper project lies centrally within the Arizona copper belt, in the vicinity by world class porphyry, VHMS and skarn type copper projects.

The project is centered 2km east of the North Star copper mine under shallow cover. North Star was a producer of copper ore for Miami Copper Co., and ASARCO at Hayden (Arizona) in the mid 1900's.

Original exploration company records held by the Geological Survey of Arizona indicate past drilling at Cora intersected oxide copper mineralization over widths in excess of 100m, beneath shallow alluvial cover, over an area of at least 1km by 1km. Intervals include: DH5: 99.7m (327ft) @ 0.28% Cu , below 10.7m of alluvial cover (California Steel Co., 1950s) DH4: 39.6m (130ft) @ 0.38% Cu , below 47.2m of alluvial cover (California Steel Co., 1950s) DH1*: 225.5m (740ft) @ 0.29% Cu , below 42.7m of alluvial cover (California Steel Co., 1950s)



Drilling results are historical in nature and have not been verified by a "qualified person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Drill locations are determined from maps with local grid coordinates of the day which cannot converted to modern coordinates with a high degree of accuracy. Results therefore should not be relied upon and should only be considered an indication of the mineral potential of the project.

* The location of DH1 is inconsistently recorded, placing it within or immediately adjacent to Aguila claims. Results therefore should not be relied upon and should only be considered an indication of the mineral potential of the project.

Exploration in the vicinity of Cora was undertaken from the 1950's until the 1970's, with drilling completed by California Steel Co., Southwest Mining Co, Magma Copper Co, Essex International Inc and Asarco LLC. No record of drilling has been located since 1976 with a vast majority of historical exploration focused on outcropping mineralization at the adjacent North Star mine.

Geological logs from holes drilled by Magma Copper Co. immediately west of Cora, indicate copper mineralization may be associated with highly altered, possible Laramide aged intrusions, consistent with a potential porphyry copper setting and analogous to many large copper deposits in Arizona.

Mapping by Magma Copper Co. identified propylitic, argillic and potassic alteration within Laramide-aged granite and monzonite intrusive rocks to the south of the North Star Mine and west of Cora, along with regular copper occurrences.

Geophysical surveys (gravity, CSAMT) were completed in the vicinity of the North Star mine by Equinox Exploration Corp in 2010 to map the thickness of cover. Based on this information, thickness of cover is expected to range between 50m and 100m at Cora.

Aguila is now compiling historical data and preparing for geochemical sampling and geophysics prior to drilling. Historical drilling intercepts suggest the project is drill ready.

Aguila continues to progress its project generation and acquisition strategy for copper and precious metals in highly prospective mineral belts. The rapidly growing demand for copper due to the accelerating uptake of electric vehicles and the supporting infrastructure, aligned with the growing uncertainty of sustainable ethical supply, makes US targets a high priority.

"The newly staked Cora project represents an exciting first step for Aguila into copper exploration in the Western US," commented Mark Saxon, President & CEO of Aguila American Gold Limited. "We have been progressively and patiently assessing projects, and Cora stands out as a significant copper prospect in one of the world's premier copper producing regions. The timing could not be better, as secure global copper supplies are tightening, coinciding with strong demand growth as a result of a global infrastructure, electrification and renewable energy boom. We look forward to applying modern exploration techniques to this under explored district."

The Cora copper project is located in Pinal County, Arizona, approximately 20km southwest of Florence and 75 km NNW of Tucson. Pinal County is a prolific copper producing region and is host to several large, world class copper mines and deposits including Ray, San Manuel, Silver Bell, Mission, Resolution and Miami (1.6 Bt @ 0.63% Cu). The project is accessible by Interstate 10 to the West and highway 79 to the East with power and railway access nearby.





Figure 1: Regional location map for the Cora copper project with major copper deposits.



To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

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The claims held by Aguila cover the flat lying pediment to the east of and adjoining the historic North Star copper mine. Widely spaced scout drilling during the 1950's within the area secured by Aguila is reported to have intersected significant widths of oxide copper mineralization beneath shallow cover (11m to 70m). Mineralization was encountered across an area of approximately 1km by 1km.

Past exploration was predominantly focused on the fault-hosted North Star copper mine. Drilling identified a significant zone of structurally controlled copper oxide mineralization that extends below cover into the ground held by Aguila. Early explorers interpreted mineralization to be associated within detachment faults, however, a review of all available historical data by Aguila indicates a possible porphyry copper-molybdenum association.

The Aguila review noted:

Diamond drill logs from Magma Copper Co. describe altered intrusive rocks (monzonite, diorite, latite porphyry) throughout several drill holes, with alteration described as argillic in nature, more consistent with a porphyry copper setting;

The lack of reported specular hematite associated with mineralization is inconsistent with a detachment fault model as this is a very common accessory mineral in detachment fault hosted deposits in Arizona and Nevada;

The local presence of Laramide aged intrusions, which are associated with all major porphyry copper deposits in Arizona; and

The structural association with local porphyry deposits and intrusions

Porphyry copper systems within Arizona are often subjected to significant post-mineral faulting and dismembering with characteristic re-mobilization of copper fluids along post-mineral faults. In this context, the structurally controlled North Star mine adjacent to the widespread copper oxide mineralization and altered intrusive rocks of the Cora project are suggestive of a shallow buried porphyry copper target.





Figure 2: Cora copper project showing claims staked by Aguila (in yellow) and area where historical drilling has reported copper oxide mineralisation beneath shallow cover (hatching).



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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Technical Background

The Company has obtained historic exploration data for this press release from the Geological Survey of Arizona. Although historic exploration data was generated by reputable companies applying practice of the day, Aguila cannot verify the data or determine the quality assurance and quality control measures applied in generating the data. Furthermore, there is no guarantee that the exploration history is fully captured. Additional drilling may have been undertaken, however the Company has not been made aware of or obtained additional data. Accordingly, the Company cautions that the exploration data reported in this news release may not be reliable. Readers are cautioned that a "qualified person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101 has not completed sufficient work to be able to verify the historical information, and therefore the information should not be relied upon.

The qualified person for the Company's projects, Mr. Mark Saxon, the Company's Chief Executive Officer, a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy and a Member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists, has reviewed and verified the contents of this release.

About Aguila American Gold Ltd (TSXV: AGL) (OTCQB: AGLAF) (WKN: A2DR6E)

Aguila American Gold is an emerging copper and precious metal company enhancing shareholder value through exploration and discovery.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD,

"Mark Saxon"

Mark Saxon

President & CEO

For further information, please contact:

aguila.gold

1305 - 1090 West Georgia St., Vancouver, BC, V6E 3V7

info@aguila.gold

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information set out in this news release constitutes forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "may", "will", "intend", "could", "might", "should", "believe" and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based upon the opinions and expectations of management of the Company as at the effective date of such statements and, in certain cases, information provided or disseminated by third parties. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, and that information obtained from third party sources is reliable, they can give no assurance that those expectations will prove to have been correct. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from results contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, the actual events may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. When relying on forward-looking statements to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements, except as may be required by applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90276
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Argo Gold Inc. (CSE: ARQ) (OTCQB: ARBTF) (FSE: P3U) ("Argo Gold") has completed a 2670 metre drill program at the Uchi Lake Gold Project. The drill program tested the downdip and strike extension at Northgate, biogeochemical anomalies proximal to the main mineralized Woco-Northgate trend, and drill tested Raingold on a parallel mineralized structure (the HST Zone) located to the west of the main mineralized Woco-Northgate structure.

Argo Gold initiated bedrock stripping, trenching, washing, geological mapping and channel sampling at the Uchi Lake Gold Project in April 2021 and will continue in phases throughout the 2021 field season. Objectives of the bedrock stripping and trenching are to expand and define known gold mineralization, identify additional gold mineralization along the mineralized trends, and to follow-up on the numerous biogeochemical anomalies identified by the Summer 2019 biogeochemical survey that covered 5 kilometres of strike length on the main mineralized trend. (Argo Gold news release October 28, 2019).

The Uchi Lake Gold Project

The exploration targets for the Uchi Gold Project area continues to be the narrow vein, high-grade gold mineralization; a common economic model in the Canadian Shield where a series of high-grade gold veins are mined using narrow vein mining methods.

William Kerr, P.Geo., consulting geologist of Argo Gold, is the Qualified Person, as defined by National Instrument 43-101, who has approved the scientific and technical disclosure in this news release.

www.argogold.com

Argo Gold has acquired the www.argogold.com domain in addition to the previous www.argogold.ca domain. The move reinforces the global strength of the Argo Gold corporate brand in the online world and is in recognition of the worldwide investor following and the company's recent listings on United States of America and German stock exchanges.

Argo Gold

Argo Gold is a Canadian mineral exploration and development company, focused on gold exploration at the Uchi Gold Project in the Red Lake District. Argo Gold recently added the Talbot Lake Gold Project to its portfolio; (Argo Gold news release June 11, 2020). Information on Argo Gold can be obtained from SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on Argo Gold's website at www.argogold.com. Argo Gold is listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange (www.thecse.com) CSE: ARQ, as well as OTCQB: ARBTF, FSE: P3U and XSTU: P3U.

For more information please contact:

Judy Baker, CEO

(416) 786-7860

jbaker@argogold.ca

NEITHER THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATIONS SERVICES PROVIDER HAVE REVIEWED OR ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

Forward-looking Information Cautionary Statement

Except for statements of historic fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made, and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to delays or uncertainties with regulatory approvals, including that of the CSE. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties that could affect financial results is contained in the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available.





Uchi Gold Project Exploration Targets

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Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - West High Yield (W.H.Y.) Resources Ltd. (TSXV: WHY) ("West High Yield" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement offering of units (the "Units") for aggregate gross proceeds of up to CAD$2,500,000 (the "Offering").

The Offering shall consist of the sale of up to 7,142,857 Units at a price of CAD$0.35 per Unit. Each Unit shall be comprised of one (1) common share in the capital of the Company ("Common Shares") and one quarter (1/4) of one (1) Common Share purchase warrant (the " Warrants"). One (1) full Warrant, together with CAD$0.45, will entitle the holder thereof to acquire one (1) additional Common Share of the Company for a period of twelve (12) months from the date of issuance. The Warrants will not be listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV").

The proceeds from the Offering will be used (i) to fund and develop the pilot plant at the Company's Record Ridge magnesium and nickel mine located in Rossland, British Columbia; (ii) to support the Company's exploration at its Midnight Gold claim located in the Rossland Gold Camp in British Columbia; and (iii) for general working capital purposes.

Finder's fees may be payable to qualified agents in appropriate circumstances in connection with the Offering. The Offering is subject to certain closing conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals, including the acceptance of the TSXV. The securities issued under the Offering will be subject to a hold period in Canada expiring four months and one day from each closing date of the Offering.

About West High Yield

West High Yield is a publicly traded junior mining exploration and development company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral resource properties in Canada with a primary objective to develop its Record Ridge magnesium deposit using green processing techniques to minimize waste and CO 2 emissions.

Contact Information:

West High Yield (W.H.Y.) Resources Ltd.

Frank Marasco Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer

Telephone: (403) 660-3488 Facsimile: (403) 206-7159

Email: frank@whyresources.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. The forward-looking statements and information are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the Company. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking statements and information are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements and information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct.

Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made, and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Some of the risks and other factors that could cause the results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information include, but are not limited to: general economic conditions in Canada and globally; industry conditions, including governmental regulation; failure to obtain industry partner and other third party consents and approvals, if and when required; the availability of capital on acceptable terms; the need to obtain required approvals from regulatory authorities; and other factors. Readers are cautioned that this list of risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on this forward-looking information, which is given as of the date hereof, and to not use such forward-looking information for anything other than its intended purpose. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in the United States. The securities of the Company will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of U.S. persons except in certain transactions exempt from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act.

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 OF THIS RELEASE.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90306
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Maritime Resources Corp. (TSXV: MAE) ("Maritime" or the "Company") announces its Annual General Meeting ("AGM") on Thursday, July 29, 2021 will now be held at 3:00 pm EDT at Maritime's Toronto office at 19th Floor, 110 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario.

In response to the public health impact of COVID-19 and variants, and to mitigate risks to the health and safety of its shareholders, employees and local communities, Maritime is urging shareholders not to attend the AGM in person.

Registered shareholders and duly appointed proxy holders may participate in the AGM via a live conference call. Registered shareholders and duly appointed proxy holders who have properly registered prior to the AGM as outlined below will be able to ask questions of management via the conference call at the conclusion of the AGM.

Shareholders should vote on the matters before the AGM by proxy or voting instruction form prior to the proxy cut-off on Tuesday, July 27, 2021 at 3:00 pm EDT.

Joining the AGM

In order to participate in the AGM, registered shareholders and duly appointed proxy holders must register via the following link prior to the proxy cut-off at 3:00 pm EDT on Tuesday, July 27, 2021.

Registration link: https://event.cwebcast.com/ses/vXDojfy5CSfSXUyEDKY_iw~~

After you register, you will be provided with call in details including a Conference ID and your PIN. Please note that phone networks are currently very busy due to the global pandemic, and it is recommended that you attempt to connect at least fifteen minutes prior to the scheduled start time of the AGM.

Registered shareholders and duly appointed proxy holders who regard their physical attendance at the AGM as essential are asked to contact Lorna MacGillivray, Corporate Secretary at 416 304-9093 or lorna@maritimegold.com prior to 3:00 pm EDT on Tuesday, July 27, 2021 so that appropriate measures can be put in place to facilitate physical distancing and other precautions or alternative participation arrangements made to ensure the health and safety of all attendees. Maritime will follow the guidance and orders of Provincial and Federal public health authorities in that regard, including those restricting the size of public gatherings.

AGM Materials

Shareholder materials for the AGM were filed and mailed to shareholders on July 2, 2021, and can be found on Maritime's website via the following link:

https://www.maritimeresourcescorp.com/investors/agm/

About Maritime Resources Corp.

Maritime holds a 100% interest- directly and subject to option agreements entitling it to earn 100% ownership- in the Green Bay Property. This includes the former Hammerdown gold mine and the Orion gold project plus the Whisker Valley exploration project, all located in the Baie Verte Mining District near the town of King's Point, Newfoundland and Labrador. The Hammerdown Gold Project is characterized by near-vertical, narrow mesothermal quartz veins containing gold associated with pyrite. Hammerdown was last operated by Richmont Mines between 2000 and 2004. The Company also owns the gold circuit at the Nugget Pond metallurgical facility in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Lac Pelletier gold project in Rouyn Noranda, Quebec and several other exploration properties and royalty interests in key mining camps across Canada.

On Behalf of the Board:

Garett Macdonald, MBA, P.Eng.

President and CEO

For further information, please contact:

Tania Barreto (Shaw), CPIR

Head of Investor Relations

1900-110 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M5C 1T4

info@maritimegold.com

www.maritimeresourcescorp.com

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Caution Regarding Forward Looking Statements:

Certain of the statements made and information contained herein is "forward-looking information" within the meaning of National Instrument 51-102 - Continuous Disclosure Obligations. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "will", "may", "should", "anticipate", "expects", "intends", "indicates" "plans" and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning the potential to increase mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates, the Company's decision to restart the Project, the Company's plans regarding depth extension of the deposit at Hammerdown, the Company's plans regarding completing additional infill and grade control testing within the PEA mine plan, the Company's plans regarding drilling targets previously identified, the anticipated timing of receiving permits for construction and development of Hammerdown and, and the Company's decision to acquire new mineral property interests and assets, amongst other things, which involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. All forward-looking statements and forward-looking information are based on reasonable assumptions that have been made by the Company in good faith as at the date of such information. Such assumptions include, without limitation, the price of and anticipated costs of recovery of, base metal concentrates, gold and silver, the presence of and continuity of such minerals at modeled grades and values, the capacities of various machinery and equipment, the use of ore sorting technology will produce positive results, the availability of personnel, machinery and equipment at estimated prices, mineral recovery rates, and others. Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking information, including, without limitation, the ability of the Company to continue to be able to access the capital markets for the funding necessary to acquire, maintain and advance exploration properties or business opportunities; global financial conditions, including market reaction to the coronavirus outbreak; competition within the industry to acquire properties of merit or new business opportunities, and competition from other companies possessing greater technical and financial resources; difficulties in advancing towards a development decision at Hammerdown and executing exploration programs at its Newfoundland and Labrador properties on the Company's proposed schedules and within its cost estimates, whether due to weather conditions, availability or interruption of power supply, mechanical equipment performance problems, natural disasters or pandemics in the areas where it operates; increasingly stringent environmental regulations and other permitting restrictions or maintaining title or other factors related to exploring of its properties, such as the availability of essential supplies and services; factors beyond the capacity of the Company to anticipate and control, such as the marketability of mineral products produced from the Company's properties; uncertainty as to whether the acquisition of assets and new mineral property interests including the Nugget Pond gold circuit will be completed in the manner currently contemplated by the parties; uncertainty as to whether mineral resources will ever be converted into mineral reserves once economic considerations are applied; uncertainty as to whether inferred mineral resources will be converted to the measured and indicated categories through further drilling, or into mineral reserves, once economic considerations are applied; government regulations relating to health, safety and the environment, and the scale and scope of royalties and taxes on production; and the availability of experienced contractors and professional staff to perform work in a competitive environment and the resulting adverse impact on costs and performance and other risks and uncertainties, including those described in each MD&A of financial condition and results of operations. In addition, forward-looking information is based on various assumptions including, without limitation, assumptions associated with exploration results and costs and the availability of materials and skilled labour. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, Maritime undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange ("TSX-V") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90317
Regulatory News:

CARMAT (Paris:ALCAR) (FR0010907956, ALCAR), the designer and developer of the world's most advanced total artificial heart, aiming to fulfill an unmet medical need by providing a therapeutic alternative to people suffering from end-stage biventricular heart failure, informs the financial community that Duke University Hospital will hold a virtual press conference today at 2:00 pm (Eastern Time) 8:00 pm (CEST Paris Time) following the first human implant of the Aeson heart as part of the feasibility study (EFS) in the United States..

The link to register and follow the conference today at 2:00 pm (ET) 8:00 pm (CEST):

https://duke.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_aPfzviUVQAi16mL-WT0zUg

About CARMAT: the world's most advanced total artificial heart project

A credible response to end-stage heart failure: CARMAT aims to eventually provide a response to a major public health issue associated with heart disease, the world's leading cause of death: chronic and acute heart failure. By pursuing the development of its total artificial heart, Aeson, composed of the implantable bioprosthesis and its portable external power supply system to which it is continuously connected, CARMAT intends to overcome the well-known shortfall in heart transplants for the tens of thousands of people suffering from irreversible end-stage heart failure, the most seriously affected of the 20 million patients with this progressive disease in Europe and the United States.

The result of combining two types of unique expertise: the medical expertise of Professor Carpentier, known throughout the world for inventing Carpentier-Edwards heart valves, which are the most used in the world, and the technological expertise of Airbus Group, world aerospace leader.

The first physiologic heart replacement therapy: given the use of highly biocompatible materials, its unique self-regulation system and its pulsatile nature, the CARMAT total artificial heart could, assuming a successful clinical development, potentially save the lives of thousands of patients each year with no risk of rejection and with an enhanced quality of life.

A project leader acknowledged at a European level: with the backing of the European Commission, CARMAT has been granted the largest subsidy ever given to an SME by Bpifrance; a total of 33 million.

Strongly committed, prestigious founders and shareholders: Matra Defense SAS (subsidiary of the Airbus Group), Professor Alain Carpentier, the Centre Chirurgical Marie Lannelongue, Truffle Capital, a leading European venture capital firm, ALIAD (Air Liquide's venture capital investor), CorNovum (an investment holding company held 50-50 by Bpifrance and the French State), the family offices of Pierre Bastid (Lohas), of Dr. Antonino Ligresti (Sante Holdings S.R.L.), of the Gaspard family (Corely Belgium SPRL and Bratya SPRL) and of M. Pierre-Edouard Sterin (BAD 21 SPRL), Groupe Therabel as well as the thousands of institutional and individual shareholders who have placed their trust in CARMAT.

For more information: www.carmatsa.com

Name: CARMAT

ISIN code: FR0010907956

Ticker: ALCAR

Disclaimer

This press release and the information contained herein do not constitute an offer to sell or subscribe to, or a solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe to, shares in CARMAT ("the Company") in any country. This press release contains forward-looking statements that relate to the Company's objectives. Such forward-looking statements are based solely on the current expectations and assumptions of the Company's management and involve risk and uncertainties. Potential risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, whether the Company will be successful in implementing its strategies, whether there will be continued growth in the relevant market and demand for the Company's products, new products or technological developments introduced by competitors, and risks associated with managing growth. The Company's objectives as mentioned in this press release may not be achieved for any of these reasons or due to other risks and uncertainties.

No guarantee can be given as to any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements, which are subject to inherent risks, including those described in the Universal registration document filed with the Autorite des Marches Financiers on February 24, 2021 under number D.21-0076 as well as changes in economic conditions, the financial markets or the markets in which CARMAT operates. In particular, no guarantee can be given concerning the Company's ability to finalize the development, validation and industrialization of the prosthesis and the equipment required for its use, to manufacture the prostheses, satisfy the requirements of competent authorities, enroll patients, obtain satisfactory clinical results, perform the clinical trials and achieve commercial objectives.

Aeson is an active implantable medical device commercially available in Europe ONLY, CARMAT SA., CE0344. The Aeson TAH is intended to replace ventricles of native heart and is indicated as a bridge to transplant in patients suffering from end-stage biventricular heart failure (INTERMACS classes 1-4) who are not amenable to maximal medical therapy or LVAD and are likely to undergo heart transplant in the 180 days following device implantation. The decision to implant and the surgical procedure must be executed by Health Care professionals trained by the manufacturer. Carefully read the documentation (clinician manual, patient manual alarm booklet) for characteristics and information necessary for patient selection and good use (contraindications, precautions, side effects).

In the USA, Aeson is currently exclusively available within the framework of clinical trials.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005600/en/

Contacts:

CARMAT

Stephane Piat

Chief Executive Officer

Pascale d'Arbonneau

Chief Financial Officer

Tel.: +33 1 39 45 64 50

contact@carmatsas.com

Alize RP

Press Relations

Caroline Carmagnol

Tel.: +33 6 64 18 99 59

carmat@alizerp.com

NewCap

Investor Relations Strategic Communication

Dusan Oresansky

Quentin Masse

Tel.: +33 1 44 71 94 94

carmat@newcap.eu
Backed exclusively by Elephant following 340% year-over-year revenue growth, Atlanta-based cybersecurity company has already acquired nearly 100 customers since its first adoption in mid 2019; Hiring blitz to fill over 125 jobs in Atlanta and worldwide over next 12-months

ATLANTA, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Atlanta-based SecurEnds, a cloud-native Identity Governance company, today announced that it has closed a $21 million Series A led exclusively by Elephant. The investment - one of the largest A-rounds in Atlanta's burgeoning cybersecurity and tech startup ecosystem to date - comes following an impressive 340% increase in year-over-year annual recurring revenue. Previously bootstrapped by its founders, SecurEnds now boasts nearly 100 customers and maintains prominent technology and reseller partnerships around the world.

SecurEnds enables the world's most forward-thinking companies to fully automate user access reviews, entitlement audits, access requests, and segregation of duty. The platform helps organizations save valuable time on implementation and upkeep while reducing audit costs by as much as 60%. To meet rapidly accelerating demand, the funding will be primarily used to scale operations and product development, and for geographic expansion into untapped markets across Europe and Asia.

"We've built the industry's first fully-cloud-native and configurable Identity Governance platform, empowering organizations to secure identities, protect against data breaches, and meet security and compliance needs," said Tippu Gagguturu, co-founder and CEO of SecurEnds. "The platform's ease-of-use allows organizations to rapidly build identity-driven cyber risk and compliance programs. We're thankful to Elephant for embracing our vision of democratizing Identity and Cloud Governance and look forward to working together as we continue to scale."

Over the next 12-months, SecurEnds intends to nearly triple its workforce, filling more than 125 sales, marketing, and product engineering roles both in the US and worldwide. As part of the transaction, Jeremiah Daly and Christopher De Souza, Partners at Elephant, will join the Board of Directors.

"SecurEnds' rapid growth over the past two years has been particularly impressive when considering the many challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and the highly competitive cybersecurity landscape," said Daly. "Both Chris and I believe Identity Governance is becoming more critical to businesses around the world and needs disruption. SecurEnds provides that disruption by delivering an innovative and elegant cloud-native solution that customers love. We are excited for a long and fruitful partnership that helps SecurEnds execute on their vision for the future of Identity Governance."

A New Approach to Governance for Identity, Data, and the Cloud

Organizations are accelerating their digital roadmap with their assets now spread between on-prem and cloud deployments. As part of their security and compliance needs, there is increasing demand for a SaaS-based product that can be easily stood up and allows them to achieve access certifications such as SOX, HIPAA, PCI-DSS, GDPR, and ISO 27001 even while undergoing a transformation.

Leveraging AI and ML-enabled predictive analytics, SecurEnds has built a versatile product without the constraints of incumbent legacy on-prem solutions, providing high ROI, strong time to value, and lower total cost of ownership than legacy solutions in the market. The cloud-native suite of products bolt-on directly to existing customer applications, such as Active Directory, ServiceNow, Ping, Workday and Okta, among others, empowering organizations to achieve their desired risk and compliance standards.

"Customers gravitate to SecurEnds because we have simplified Identity and Cloud Governance by creating a business user centered product," said Deven Reddy, co-founder and COO. "We've carefully constructed our platform to have intuitive workflows that allow end-users without IGA expertise to meet compliance and security goals."

For more information, visit www.securends.com and follow @securends on LinkedIn and Twitter.

About SecurEnds

SecurEnds provides a cloud born Identity Governance platform with multiple modules. Organizations can effectively manage Credential Entitlement Management (CEM), Access Certifications, Cloud Infrastructure Entitlement Management (CIEM), Access Requests, Identity Risk & Analytics, and Segregation of Duty (SoD). The company is based in Atlanta and is backed by Elephant.

About Elephant

Elephant is a venture capital firm focused on the enterprise software, consumer internet, and mobile markets. To learn more about Elephant, please visit: https://elephantvc.com/.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1574214/SecurEnds_Logo.jpg
July 19-21 in Las Vegas, Nevada

TOCCOA, GA / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / Galaxy Next Generation, Inc. (OTCQB:GAXY) ("Galaxy" or the "Company), a provider of interactive learning technology solutions, today announced its participation as an exhibitor at ISC West 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Gary LeCroy, Galaxy's Chief Executive Officer, commented, "We are excited to be exhibiting at the upcoming ISC West tradeshow. The focus of the show is security products and we will be showcasing the new 'award winning' G2 visual alerts in the emerging technologies arena."

Taking place July 19-21, 2021 at the Sands Expo in Las Vegas, the International Security Conference & Exposition - also known as ISC West - looks forward to welcoming the security & public safety industry back to accelerate market recovery and re-define the roadmap ahead. With ISC West, you will have the opportunity to network and connect with thousands of security & public safety professionals, learn from the dynamic SIA Education@ISC program, plus explore the latest technologies in Access Control & Visitor Management, Video Surveillance, Alarms & Monitoring, Emergency Response and Public Safety, while discovering emerging solutions in IT/IoT Security, Smart Home Solutions, Drones & Robotics, and more! The combination of products, networking opportunities, special events, award ceremonies, and educational programming all in one place truly makes ISC West the industry's most comprehensive & converged event in the U.S.

For additional information, please visit: https://www.iscwest.com.

About Galaxy Next Generation, Inc.

Galaxy Next Generation (OTCQB:GAXY) is a provider of interactive learning technology solutions that allows the presenter and participant to engage in a fully collaborative instructional environment. Galaxy's products include Galaxy's own private-label interactive touch screen panel as well as numerous other national and international branded peripheral and communication devices. Galaxy's distribution channel consists of 22+ resellers across the U.S. who primarily sell the Company's products within the commercial and educational market. Galaxy does not control where resellers focus their resell efforts, although generally, the K-12 education market is the largest customer base for Galaxy products - comprising nearly 90% of Galaxy's sales.

For additional information, please visit our website at: www.galaxynext.us

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements are based on the current plans and expectations of management and are subject to a number of uncertainties and risks that could significantly affect the company's current plans and expectations, as well as future results of operations and financial condition. A more extensive listing of risks and factors that may affect the company's business prospects and cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the reports and other documents filed by the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Investors Contact:

IR@GalaxyNext.us

P:888-859-1274

SOURCE: Galaxy Next Generation, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655623/Galaxy-Next-Generation-to-Highlight-its-G2-Visual-Alerts-at-ISC-West-Tradeshow
Not for Distribution to a United States Newswire or for Dissemination in the United States

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / Sarama Resources Ltd. ("Sarama" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, due to strong investor demand, it has increased its previously announced non-brokered private placement offering (refer to Sarama's news release dated July 14, 2021) to up to 10,000,000 units (the "Units") of the Company at C$0.21 per Unit for gross proceeds of up to C$2,100,000 (the "Private Placement"). As previously announced, each Unit will be comprised of one common share of the Company and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (each full warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will permit its holder to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of C$0.28 per common share for a period of 3 years after issuance.

The Company's President and CEO, Andrew Dinning, commented:

"We are very pleased with the strong investor support and even though there is a high level of demand, the Company does not intend to further upsize the private placement and will not be accepting any further subscriptions. The rapid take up of this placement further supports our view that Sarama remains one of the best value propositions in the market."

The proceeds of the Private Placement will be used for working capital and for general corporate purposes.

Participation by insiders of the Company ("Insiders") in the Private Placement will be considered a "related party transaction" pursuant to Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company will be exempt from the requirement to obtain a formal valuation or minority shareholder approval in connection with the Insiders' participation in the Private Placement in reliance of Sections 5.5(b) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101. A material change report will be filed in connection with the participation of Insiders in the Private Placement less than 21 days in advance of the closing of the Private Placement, which the Company deems reasonable in the circumstances so as to be able to avail itself of potential financing opportunities and to complete the Private Placement in an expeditious manner.

The securities issued under the Private Placement will be subject to a four-month hold period from the date of issue in accordance with applicable securities laws. The Private Placement is expected to close on or about July 28, 2021 and the Company reserves the right to extend the closing date, and may close the Private Placement in one or more tranches. The Private Placement is subject to certain closing conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, including the conditional acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange.

The Units have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from registration is available. This announcement does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the Units within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. Persons (as defined under Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act), nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

For further information on the Company's activities, please contact:

Andrew Dinning or Lui Evangelista

e: info@saramaresources.com

t: +61 (0) 8 9363 7600

ABOUT SARAMA RESOURCES LTD.

Sarama Resources Ltd. (TSX-V: SWA) is a West African focused gold explorer and developer with substantial landholdings in south-west Burkina Faso. Sarama is focused on maximising the value of its strategic assets and advancing its key projects towards development.

Sarama's Sanutura Project, in which the Company holds a 100% interest, is located within the prolific Hounde and Boromo Greenstone Belts in south-west Burkina Faso and is the exploration and development focus of the Company. Its exploration programs have successfully discovered a mineral resource of 0.6Moz gold (indicated) and 1.9Moz gold (inferred)(1,4) which is complemented by the Bondi Deposit(4) (historical estimate of mineral resources of 0.3Moz Au measured and indicated and 0.1Moz Au inferred(2,4)).

Together, the deposits present a potential development opportunity whereby a significant, long-life CIL project can be established and paid for by the significant oxide resource base.

Sarama has built further optionality into its portfolio including a 600km exploration position in the highly prospective Banfora Belt in south-western Burkina Faso. The Koumandara Project hosts several regional-scale structural features and trends of gold-in-soil anomalism extending for over 40km along strike.

Sarama also holds approximately 19% participating interest in the Karankasso Project Joint Venture ("JV") which is situated adjacent to the Company's Sanutura Project in Burkina Faso and is a JV between Sarama and Endeavour Mining Corp ("Endeavour") in which Endeavour is the operator of the JV. In February 2020, an updated mineral resource estimate of 709koz gold(3) was declared for the Karankasso Project JV.

The Company's Board and management team have a proven track record in Africa and a strong history in the discovery and development of large-scale gold deposits. Sarama is well positioned to build on its current success with a sound strategy to surface and maximise the value of its property portfolio.

FOOTNOTES

Sanutura Project, Tankoro Deposit - mineral resource estimate - 9.4Mt @ 1.9g/t Au for 0.6Moz Au (indicated) plus 43.6Mt @ 1.4g/t Au for 1.9Moz (inferred), reported at cut-off grades ranging 0.2-1.6g/t Au, reflecting the mining methods and processing flowsheets assumed to assess the likelihood of the mineral resources to have reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction. The effective date of the Company's inferred mineral resource estimate is September 8, 2020. For further information regarding the mineral resource estimate please refer to the technical report titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report, Sanutura Project, South-West Burkina Faso", dated October 20, 2020 (effective date: September 8, 2020) and prepared by Paul Schmiede, Adrian Shepherd & Fred Kock. The technical report is available under Sarama's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Bondi Deposit - 4.1Mt @ 2.1g/t Au for 282,000oz Au (measured and indicated) plus 2.5Mt @ 1.8g/t Au for 149,700oz Au (inferred), reported at a 0.5 g/t Au cut-off. The historical estimate of the Bondi Deposit reflects a mineral resource estimate compiled by Orezone Gold Corporation ("Orezone") and has an effective date of February 20, 2009. The historical estimate is contained in a technical report titled "Technical Report on the Mineral Resource of the Bondigui Gold Project", dated date of February 20, 2009 and prepared by Yves Buro (the "Bondi Technical Report"). Yves Buro is an employee of Met-Chem Canada Inc and is independent of Orezone and Sarama. The technical report is available under Orezone's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com Sarama believes that the historical estimate is relevant to investors' understanding of the property, as it reflects the most recent and substantive technical work undertaken in respect of the Bondi Deposit. The historical estimate was informed by 886 drillholes, assayed for gold by cyanidation methods, which were used to interpret mineralised envelopes and geological zones over the area of the historical estimate. Gold grade interpolation was undertaken using ID methodology based on input parameters derived from geostatistical and geological analyses assessments. Field measurements and geological logging of drillholes were used to determine weathering boundaries and bulk densities for modelled blocks. The historical estimate uses the mineral resource reporting categories required under National Instrument 43-101. No more recent estimates of the mineral resource or other data are available. Sarama is currently undertaking the necessary verification work in the field and on the desktop that may support the future reclassification of the historical estimate to a mineral resource. A qualified person engaged by Sarama has not undertaken sufficient work to verify the historical estimate as a current mineral resource and Sarama is therefore not treating the historical estimate as a current mineral resource. Karankasso Project current mineral resource estimate - the current mineral resource estimate for the Karankasso Project of 12.74Mt @ 1.73g/t Au for 709koz Au (effective date of December 31, 2019) was disclosed on February 24, 2020 by Semafo Inc ("Semafo", since acquired by Endeavour Mining Corp. "Endeavour"). For further information regarding that mineral resource estimate, refer to the news release "Semafo: Bantou Project Inferred Resources Increase to 2.2Moz" dated February 24, 2020 and Semafo: Bantou Project NI43-101 Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate" dated April 3, 2020. The news release and technical report are available under Semafo's and Endeavour's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The mineral resource estimate was fully prepared by, or under the supervision of Semafo. Sarama has not independently verified Semafo's mineral resource estimate and takes no responsibility for its accuracy. Semafo, and now Endeavour, is the operator of the Karankasso Project JV and Sarama is relying on their Qualified Persons' assurance of the validity of the mineral resource estimate. Additional technical work has been undertaken on the Karankasso Project since the effective date but Sarama is not in a position to quantify the impact of this additional work on the mineral resource estimate referred to above. The Djarkadougou and the Tankoro Exploration Permits which host the Bondi and Tankoro Deposits respectively, are going through a process with the government of Burkina Faso and the Company anticipates them to be re-issued as new, full-term exploration permits. The Company is in discussion with senior government officials to expedite this process and anticipates these permits will be issued in due course, though there can be no assurance that the process will be successfully completed on a timely basis, or at all.

CAUTION REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

Information in this news release that is not a statement of historical fact constitutes forward-looking information. Such forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements regarding the intention to increase the size of the Private Placement, the timing for closing of the Private Placement, the receipt of regulatory approvals, the use of proceeds from the Private Placement, the listing of the common shares on the TSX Venture Exchange, timing, prospects and any conditions that may be imposed on the re-issuance of the Tankoro and Djarkadougou Exploration Permits by the Government of Burkina Faso, the Company's future exploration and development plans (including its planned drilling campaign), the completion of its ASX listing, the potential for the Sanutura, Koumandara and Karankasso Projects to host economic mineralisation, the potential to expand the present oxide component of the existing estimated mineral resources at the Sanutura Project, the reliability of the historical estimate of mineral resources at the Bondi Deposit, and the potential for the receipt of regulatory approvals. Actual results, performance or achievements of the Company may vary from the results suggested by such forward-looking statements due to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors. Such factors include, among others, that the business of exploration for gold and other precious minerals involves a high degree of risk and is highly speculative in nature; mineral resources are not mineral reserves, they do not have demonstrated economic viability, and there is no certainty that they can be upgraded to mineral reserves through continued exploration; few properties that are explored are ultimately developed into producing mines; geological factors; the actual results of current and future exploration; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be evaluated, as well as those factors disclosed in the Company's publicly filed documents.

There can be no assurance that any mineralisation that is discovered will be proven to be economic, or that future required regulatory licensing or approvals will be obtained. However, the Company believes that the assumptions and expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the Company's ability to carry on its exploration activities, the sufficiency of funding, the timely receipt of required approvals, the price of gold and other precious metals, that the Company will not be affected by adverse political events, the ability of the Company to operate in a safe, efficient and effective manner and the ability of the Company to obtain further financing as and when required and on reasonable terms. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

Sarama does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except as required by applicable laws.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

QUALIFIED PERSONS' STATEMENT

Scientific or technical information in this disclosure that relates to the preparation of the Company's mineral resource estimate for the Tankoro Deposit within the Sanutura Project is based on information compiled or approved by Paul Schmiede. Paul Schmiede is an employee of Sarama Resources Ltd and is a Fellow in good standing of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Paul Schmiede has sufficient experience which is relevant to the commodity, style of mineralisation under consideration and activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101. Paul Schmiede consents to the inclusion in this disclosure of the information, in the form and context in which it appears.

Scientific or technical information in this disclosure, in respect of the Bondi Deposit relating to mineral resource and exploration information drawn from the Technical Report prepared for Orezone on that deposit has been approved by Guy Scherrer. Guy Scherrer is an employee of Sarama Resources Ltd and is a member in good standing of the Ordre des Geologues du Quebec and has sufficient experience which is relevant to the commodity, style of mineralisation under consideration and activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101. Guy Scherrer consents to the inclusion in this disclosure of the information, in the form and context in which it appears.

Scientific or technical information in this disclosure that relates to the quotation of the Karankasso Project's mineral resource estimate and exploration activities is based on information compiled by Paul Schmiede. Paul Schmiede is an employee of Sarama Resources Ltd and is a Fellow in good standing of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Paul Schmiede has sufficient experience which is relevant to the commodity, style of mineralisation under consideration and activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101. Paul Schmiede consents to the inclusion in this disclosure of the information, in the form and context in which it appears. Paul Schmiede and Sarama have not independently verified Semafo's (now Endeavour's) mineral resource estimate and take no responsibility for its accuracy.

SOURCE: Sarama Resources Ltd.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655664/Sarama-Resources-Announces-Upsize-of-Private-Placement-To-C2100000
OAKVILLE, ON / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / Spark Power Group Inc. (TSX:SPG), parent company of Spark Power Corp. ("Spark Power" or the "Company"), is pleased to welcome two new members to its Senior Leadership Team - Tom Duncan, Executive Vice President, Technical Services - Canada and Richard Perri, Senior Vice President, Finance.

Tom Duncan joins Spark from Wajax where he served as Vice President, Central Region. Prior to this role, he worked as General Manager at both Superior Propane and Reliance Home Comfort. An industry and thought leader for over 25 years, his extensive background in driving growth, customer experience, and safety will allow him to help the Company extend its leadership within the technical services sector, including its field services and sales team.

"We are thrilled to have Tom join our team," said Richard Jackson, President & CEO of Spark Power. "His years of experience within the industrial and energy services industries will provide the leadership and guidance needed to help Spark grow and put our field operations first," said Jackson. "By focusing on our Canadian branches and technical services, Tom will work parallel to Cody Zaitsoff, who will now focus on expanding our U.S. operations as Spark's Executive Vice President, Technical Services - U.S. Together, Tom and Cody will ensure that Spark continues to provide high-quality field operations across North America," said Jackson.

"Entering my role as President & CEO, my goal was to prepare our leadership team for the next level of organizational maturity," added Jackson. "Given intentional changes within Spark to flatten our management structure earlier this year, and with some recent expected departures from the business, I believe the opportunity and timing to strengthen our team as we emerge from the pandemic has been perfect," he said.

Richard Perri comes to Spark from ADP Canada where he served as Chief Financial Officer. Prior to this position, he worked as the Senior Vice President and CFO at Ricoh Canada and Vice President of Finance at Pitney Bowes Canada. Perri holds 19 years of experience as a senior financial leader and has extensive experience in strategy development, M&A, finance, operations, and IT. In his new role, Perri will oversee the day-to-day operations of the finance team, including financial planning and analysis, treasury management, and financial reporting activities. He will also provide quarterly finance reporting and analysis to the CEO, CFO, and Board of Directors, working closely with the Audit Committee.

"I am extremely excited to have Richard join us at this important time in our evolution," said Dan Ardila, Executive Vice President and CFO at Spark. "He will be an important and valuable asset to our organization at all levels. Richard's past experience and abilities to manage diverse business units across large companies will bring valuable leadership skills to our finance team and support key finance initiatives," said Ardila.

###

About Spark Power

Spark Power, a wholly owned subsidiary of Spark Power Group Inc. (TSX: SPG), is a leading independent provider of end-to-end electrical contracting, operations and maintenance services, and energy sustainability solutions to the industrial, commercial, utility, and renewable asset markets in North America. We work to earn the right to be our customers' Trusted Partner in Power. Our highly skilled and dedicated people, located in the communities we serve, combined with our knowledge of the power industry, technology expertise, and commitment to safety, ensures we deliver the right solutions that keep our customers' operations up and running today and better equipped for tomorrow. Learn more at www.sparkpowercorp.com.

Investor and Regulatory Inquiries

Dan Ardila, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

dardila@sparkpowercorp.com

+1 (905) 829-3336 x127

Media Inquiries

Kim Samlall, Director, Marketing Communications

media@sparkpowercorp.com

+1 (905) 829-3336 x185

SOURCE: Spark Power Group Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655667/Spark-Power-strengthens-its-Senior-Leadership-Team-with-addition-of-Tom-Duncan-as-Executive-Vice-President-Technical-Services--Canada-and-Richard-Perri-as-Senior-Vice-President-Finance
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Life sciences company Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (TMO) announced Thursday it has opened a new cGMP plasmid DNA manufacturing facility in Carlsbad, California, enabling it to meet rapidly growing demand for plasmid DNA-based therapies and vital mRNA-based vaccines. Plasmid DNA is increasingly used as a therapeutic agent in gene therapies and certain vaccines. Its advantages, including weak immunogenicity, increased safety and ease of manufacture, have dramatically increased demand for materials and manufacturing capacity globally. The 67,000-square-foot facility, located on Thermo Fisher's Carlsbad campus, is part of an investment strategy to ensure customers can reliably meet growing global demand for cell and gene therapies and vaccines. The expansion in Carlsbad also benefits the growing life sciences ecosystem in California, and Thermo Fisher will add more than 150 new roles as manufacturing scales. With its fully integrated development, supply chain and manufacturing capabilities, which include viral vector services, a new cell therapy manufacturing facility and a new cryocenter to support clinical trials, Thermo Fisher customers can quickly progress from discovery to clinical to patient impact. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
- Progressing cavity pumps market is foreseen to expand at ~7% CAGR throughout the analysis period 2021-2031. Increased infrastructure development activities is expected to work as key driver for market growth.

- In terms of region, Asia Pacific will demonstrate prominent growth due to increased industrialization in the region.

ALBANY, N.Y., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Progressive cavity pump refers to a positive displacement pump type. The device is widely utilized in the management of extremely complicated pumping applications and high viscous fluids. While the tool can be used in a wide range of applications, the prime usage of progressing cavity pump is for pumping rough, viscous, or shear-sensitive materials and metering chemicals.

The new report by TMR offers complete synopsis of the global progressing cavity pumps market. According to the analysts of this report, the market is likely to surpass the valuation of around US$ 5.7 Bn by the end of assessment period 2021-2031.

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Progressing Cavity Pumps Market: Key Findings

Growth in Urban Population across Developing Countries Boosts Sales of Progressing Cavity Pumps

Many developing countries across the globe are observing notable growth in industrialization. This is one of the key factors fueling demand for progressing cavity pumps. Moving forward, the government bodies of many countries are growing number of projects pertaining to the infrastructure development activities. The increased urbanization is resulting into growing requirement for sanitation. As a result, the government authorities are focused on strengthening their water and wastewater treatment infrastructure. All these factors are expected to bring substantial demand opportunities in the global progressing cavity pumps market in the forthcoming years.

Players Concentrate on Minimizing Production Cost as Growth Strategy

With presence of many players in the progressing cavity pumps market, the competition level in this market seems to be quite intense. As a result, the market enterprises are growing participation in diverse strategic moves. Several players are seen engaged in the mergers, acquisition, and partnership activities. At the same time, many vendors are growing interest in reducing their production costs. The tactic is helping them in offering products at cheaper rates, and thereby achieving the adoption of this product by small and medium-scale companies in diverse end-user industries. Thus, growth in adoption of the product by this target customer base will help in boosting the revenue number of the global progressing cavity pumps market in the years ahead.

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Progressing Cavity Pumps Market: Growth Boosters

Progressing cavity pumps are utilized in a wide range of industries including power, chemicals, pulp and paper, paints and coatings, biogas, marine, and oil and gas. The expansion of all these industries is likely to translate into increased demand opportunities in the global market for progressing cavity pumps in the years to come.

The progressing cavity pumps are gaining traction across the food and beverages industry. One of the key factors behind the growing usage of this pump across the food and beverages industry is their ability to help in decreasing the operational cost. Thus, growing product adoption in the industry will help in boosting the market sales in the upcoming years.

The government bodies of many nations are growing investments toward the water and wastewater management and oil and gas industries. This is one of the key factors fueling the sales of progressing cavity pumps market.

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Progressing Cavity Pumps Market: Well-Established Participants

The new research report performs profiling of all participants operating in the global progressing cavity pumps market. Thus, this report gives important data pertaining to the financial status, sales, production, revenues, and other statistics pertaining to the companies operating in the market for progressing cavity pumps.

The list of key market players includes following names:

Mono Pumps

National Oilwell Varco

Netzsch pumps

SEEPEX GmbH

Wangen Germany

Circor International

Nova Rotors Srl

Vogelsang USA

Liberty Process Equipment

Borger GmbH

Continental Ultra Pumps

SEKO S.p.A

Artemis PC Pumps Systems Ltd

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Mineral Processing Equipment Market - Transparency Market Research delivers key insights on the global mineral processing equipment market for mining industry. In terms of revenue, the global mineral processing equipment market for mining industry is estimated to expand at a CAGR of ~5% during the forecast period, owing to numerous factors, regarding which TMR offers thorough insights and forecasts in its report on the global mineral processing equipment market for mining industry. The global mineral processing equipment market for mining industry has been positively impacted by the rise in demand for metals and minerals across the globe. Thus, increase in production of metals and minerals is propelling the global mineral processing equipment market for mining industry.

Gas Compressor Market - Transparency Market Research delivers key insights on the global gas compressor market. In terms of revenue, the global gas compressor market is estimated to expand at a CAGR of ~4% during the forecast period, owing to numerous factors, regarding which TMR offers thorough insights and forecasts in its report on the global gas compressor. The global gas compressor market is broadly affected by several factors, including expansion of chemical industry and ongoing investment in construction of oil & gas pipeline. Furthermore, growth in deployment of energy-efficient gas compressor is also a key factor anticipated to propel the global gas compressor market.

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- The access control market analysis conducted by Future Market Insight (FMI) offers insights into key drivers propelling the market growth. The report highlights factors driving the access control demand outlook in terms of components and system type. As per FMI, the demand for integrated access control solutions to offer safe working environment will remain a chief growth driver.

DUBAI, U.A.E, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The global access control market value is expected to surpass US$ 15 billion by 2021. According to a study by FMI, the market for access control is likely to reach a valuation of US$ 50.4 billion through 2031, growing at a CAGR of 12.6% during the forecast period 2021-2031 in comparison to CAGR 8.1% registered between 2016 and 2020.

The emergence of digitalization and cloud-based computing across the globe is driving the market. With increasing adoption of these cloud-based technologies, the risk of cybercrime, digital fraud, and potential information leaks also has increased, making the use of access control systems indispensable in various industry verticals. This is expected to create lucrative sales opportunities in the market.

Surging need for integrated access control solutions to create a safe working environment is spurring the demand. It also enabled the market to register year-on-year growth of 10.8% in 2021. In response to the increasing risk of data and security theft, IT companies are increasingly installing access control systems to record employee entry and exit timings.

The technology also helps to prevent unsolicited entry in campus and minimize the risk of data breaches. Thus, the IT & telecom sector is expected to contribute a revenue share of around 23% by 2021, as per FMI.

Fingerprint scanner is dominating the hardware access control component segment. Favored by the extensive use of these scanners in smartphones and laptops to eliminate the need for passwords and login IDs, the fingerprint access control system is anticipated to account for more than 35% of the market share in 2021.

"Key players in the access control market are investing in research and development (R&D) activities and collaborating with other companies to develop industry-specific solutions," says the FMI analyst.

Request a report sample to gain comprehensive insights at https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-13363

Key Takeaways from Access Control Market Survey

North America is likely to remain one of the most attractive markets with the U.S. accounting for a market share of over 79% in the region by 2031.

is likely to remain one of the most attractive markets with the U.S. accounting for a market share of over 79% in the region by 2031. The U.K. is expected to lead the European market with growing sales of access control solutions at a CAGR of over 15% through 2031.

Thanks to the rising government investments in infrastructural advancement, the demand for access control solutions in China is estimated to rise at a CARG of 12% over the forecast period.

is estimated to rise at a CARG of 12% over the forecast period. With increasing terror threats in India , the demand for access control solutions in the country is expected to surpass a valuation of US$ 751 million by 2031.

, the demand for access control solutions in the country is expected to surpass a valuation of by 2031. Japan is anticipated to emerge as a highly lucrative market, demonstrating growth at a robust CAGR of 17% over the next ten years.

Key Drivers

Increasing awareness regarding cybercrime and security for data is fueling the demand for access control solutions.

Advent of digitalization is expected to create sales opportunities for access control solutions.

Ongoing technological development in access control solutions will bolster the growth of the market.

Growing shift from key-based to key-less access control is driving the growth of the market.

Key Restraints

High cost of installation is a factor impeding the demand for access control solutions.

Constraint of being hacked is negatively affecting the growth of the access control market.

Discover more about the access control analysis with figures and data tables, along with the table of contents. Ask an Analyst@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/ask-question/rep-gb-13363

Competitive Landscape

Manufacturers operating in the access control market are emphasizing on optimizing their existing product and service portfolio. Some of the market players are focusing on receive approval for their product to expand their market share, For instance.

Honeywell the expanded the capabilities of its MAXPRO Cloud portfolio in Feb 2021 , with the launch of its new products MPA1 and MPA2, access control panels that offer web, cloud-based and on-premise hosting options.

, with the launch of its new products MPA1 and MPA2, access control panels that offer web, cloud-based and on-premise hosting options. Nedap's AEOS physical access control system received CPNI certification, which makes it suitable for the U.K.'s technical authority standards applications.

Some of the key players operating in the market profiled by FMI are:

Identiv

Honeywell International Inc.

NEC Corporation

Johnson Controls

Bosch Security and Safety Systems

Assa Abloy AB

Thales Group

STANLEY Convergent Security Solutions, Inc.

3M

Secom Co., Ltd

Dormakaba Holding AG

HID Global

Matrix Comsec Pvt. Ltd.

Paxton Access Ltd.

BioEnable Technologies Pvt Ltd.

Spectra Technovision ( India ) Pvt. Ltd.

) Pvt. Ltd. ZKTeco India

Intellicon Private

More Valuable Insights on Access Control Market

FMI, in its new report, offers an unbiased analysis of the global access control market, analyzing forecast statistics through 2021 and beyond. The survey reveals growth projections on in access control market with detailed segmentation:

By Component:

Hardware

Fingerprint Scanners



Facial Recognition Devices



Iris Scanners



Smart Cards



Others

Software

Integrated Access Control Software



Standalone Software/Middleware



Facial Recognition Software



Iris Recognition Software



Others

Services

Professional Services



System Integration & Installation





Security Consulting





Support & Maintenance



Managed Services

By System Type:

Fingerprint Access Control Systems

Face Recognition Access Control Systems

Iris Recognition Access Control Systems

Card-Based Access Control Systems

Others

By Industry:

IT & Telecom

BFSI

Military & Defense

Manufacturing

Healthcare

Transportation & Logistics

Government

Education

Others

By Region:

North America

Latin America

Europe

East Asia

South Asia & Pacific

& Pacific India

Middle East and Africa (MEA)

Request Report Brochure@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/brochure/rep-gb-13363

Key Questions Covered in the Report

The report offers insight into access control market demand outlook for the forecast period 2021-2031

The market study also highlights projected sales growth for access control market between 2021 and 2031

Access control market survey identifies key growth drivers, restraints, and other forces impacting prevailing trends and evaluation of current market size and forecast and technological advancements within the industry

Access control market share analysis, covering key companies within the industry and coverage of strategies such as mergers & acquisitions, joint ventures, collaborations or partnerships, and others

Explore FMI's Extensive Coverage on Technology Domain

Conference Room Solutions Market: The global Conference Room Solutions Market report by FMI gives an in-depth insight on the future expansion prospects, trends and challenges that market is likely to face in the upcoming decade. Key statistics regarding key segments have been presented across prominent geographies, along with a detailed assessment of the market's competitive landscape.

Managed File Transfer (MFT) Market: Future Market Insights gives a detailed segmentation on the global Managed File Transfer (MFT) Market with upcoming market trends, challenges and future growth dynamics across key geographies and prominent segments. The report provides a holistic approach, mapping the competitive landscape with detailed analysis on established players, new entrants, and opportunities likely to prevail across the 2021-2031 decade.

Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) Market: The Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) Market study published by FMI offers a comprehensive analysis and focused views on major trends expected to provide shape to future growth prospects. The report provides detailed analysis of the significant drivers, trends, challenges and opportunities prevailing for the forthcoming decade across key geographies along with competitive landscape of the upcoming decade.

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Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading provider of market intelligence and consulting services, serving clients in over 150 countries. FMI is headquartered in Dubai, and has delivery centers in the UK, U.S. and India. FMI's latest market research reports and industry analysis help businesses navigate challenges and make critical decisions with confidence and clarity amidst breakneck competition. Our customized and syndicated market research reports deliver actionable insights that drive sustainable growth. A team of expert-led analysts at FMI continuously tracks emerging trends and events in a broad range of industries to ensure that our clients prepare for the evolving needs of their consumers.

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Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Thunderstruck Resources Ltd. (TSXV: AWE) (OTC: THURF) ("Thunderstruck" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it is in the final planning stages of an extensive exploration program on its Liwa Creek gold/silver prospect on Viti Levu, the main island of Fiji. The proposed program will be supervised by Oliver Victor, who completed his Master of Science degree on The Geology, Alteration and Mineralisation of the Liwa Creek Epithermal System, Fiji at the University of Exeter. (See October 11, 2019 press release)

"It's not very often in our industry that you are able to hire a professional so well suited to a specific project. We can't wait to have Oliver arrive this Saturday, quarantine, and begin his work at Liwa thereafter," commented Thunderstruck President and CEO, Bryce Bradley. "Our long anticipated Liwa gold/silver exploration campaign is about to begin, and we are looking forward to results from our maiden drill program on this exciting prospect."

Mr. Victor will be leading the team at Liwa, planning and executing the 2021 program, which will include mapping, rock/soil geochemistry and drilling. (See December 11, 2020 press release). The team has recently completed 13 km of road-clearing with a final two kilometers remaining to reach the Liwa camp.

Details of the Company's expanded program at Liwa will be outlined in more detail once Mr. Victor has settled in country over the coming week.

Other Corporate Updates

The soil sampling program on the Korokayiu VMS project, being explored in partnership with the Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC), is on schedule, the results of which will determine Phase 2 of the exploration program.

About Fiji

Viti Levu, the main island of Fiji, has a long mining history. It is on the prolific Pacific Ring of Fire, a trend that has produced numerous large deposits, including Porgera, Lihir and Grasberg. The island of Viti Levu hosts Namosi, held by a joint venture between Newcrest and Mitsubishi. Newcrest published Proven and Probable Reserves for Namosi of 1.3 billion tonnes at 0.37% Cu and 0.12 g/t Au (5.2M ounces Au and 4.9M tonnes Cu). Namosi is now undergoing environmental assessment as part of the permitting process. Lion One Metals is now developing its Tuvatu Project, with Indicated Resources of 1.00 million tonnes at 8.48 g/t Au (274,600 ounces Au), and Inferred Resources of 1.33 million tonnes at 9.0 g/t Au (384,000 ounces Au) reported at a 3.0 g/t Au lower cutoff. The Vatukoula Gold Mine has been operating for 80 years, producing in excess of 7 million ounces.

About Thunderstruck Resources

Thunderstruck Resources is a Canadian mineral exploration company that has assembled extensive and highly prospective properties in Fiji on which recent and previous exploration has confirmed zinc, copper and precious metals mineralization. The Company provides investors with exposure to a diverse portfolio of exploration stage projects with potential for zinc, copper, gold and silver in a politically safe and stable jurisdiction. Thunderstruck trades on the Toronto Venture Exchange (TSX-V) under the symbol "AWE" and United States OTC under the symbol "THURF."

For additional information, please contact:

Rob Christl, VP Business Development and Investor Relations

Email: rob@thunderstruck.ca

P: 778 840-7180

or, visit our website: http://www.thunderstruck.ca

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange Inc. nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". Although Thunderstruck believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of Thunderstruck's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by law, Thunderstruck undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90324
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Genix Pharmaceuticals Corporation (TSXV: GENX) (OTCQB: GENPF) ("GENIX" or the "Company") Genix is pleased to announce that, pursuant to a Health Canada Drug Establishment License (DEL) inspection, carried out at its warehouse premises on June 22, 2021, the Company has now received a Notice of Compliant Rated Inspection with a compliant (C) rating. This rating means that at the time of the inspection, its activities were fully in compliance with the Food and Drugs Act and its associated regulations and that the Company's DEL has been approved.

Health Canada will now formally issue the Company its Drug Establishment License (DEL) for both sterile and non-sterile finished dosage prescription drugs for all the various finished dosage forms - capsules, tablets, creams, powders and solutions. This prescription and non-prescription drugs DEL now legally allows the Company to warehouse and distribute all types of prescription and non-prescription (over the counter) drugs in Canada with a focus on the Company's full range of ophthalmological and oral drugs.

President Mahmoud S. Aziz states, "It has been comprehensive and detailed process to receive the DEL approval. I would like to thank our Regulatory Team and everyone involved for all of their hard work and dedication in achieving this. With the DEL in place the Company is now ready to file its Abbreviated New Drug Submissions (ANDS) with Health Canada for its 30 ophthalmic prescription drugs and its first generic version of Synthroid. I am looking forward to the continued progress in the implementation of our aggressive business strategy".

About GENIX

Genix Pharmaceuticals Corporation is a highly innovative, Canadian life-sciences company focused on the manufacturing, acquisition, sales and distribution of the leading and widely used ophthalmological drugs and single source generic prescription and OTC pharmaceuticals and in the research & development of novel, innovative ophthalmological pharmaceuticals to satisfy large and unmet consumer/patient needs.

On behalf of the Board,

Mahmoud Aziz, President & Director

Genix Pharmaceuticals Corporation

www.genixpharm.com

For more information regarding GENIX, please contact:

Kevin Bottomley, Director

Tel: +1.604.609.6199

kbottomley@genixpharm.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Statements included in this announcement, including statements concerning our plans, intentions and expectations, which are not historical in nature are intended to be, and are hereby identified as, "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements may be identified by words including "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "expects" and similar expressions. The Company cautions readers that forward-looking statements, including without limitation those relating to the Company's future operations and business prospects, are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90325
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Bloomberg today expanded access to community solar projects managed by Common Energy to more than 4,800 of its employees based in New York City. Through Common Energy's Clean Energy Benefit Program, Bloomberg employees based in the city can enroll to support new, local community solar projects. The New York City community solar projects will be owned and operated by UGE International (TSXV: UGE) (OTCQB: UGEIF), a global clean energy developer.

Community solar projects generate clean energy that flows to the power grid, thereby decreasing the use of fossil fuels and lowering emissions in the community. Employees who enroll in the program benefit by receiving clean energy credits that reduce their electricity cost each month. There is no cost to Bloomberg or its employees.

"By giving our employees the option to support community solar projects everyone wins," said Beth Mazzeo, Chief Administrative Officer at Bloomberg. "We raise awareness for the benefits of renewable energy, support local solar projects, lower emissions and fossil fuel consumption overall and on top of that our employees can lower their electricity bill each month."

To date, Bloomberg employees are backing seven clean energy projects across the U.S. Northeast region serving ConEdison, Central Hudson Gas & Electric, Orange & Rockland Utilities, PSEG Long Island and PSEG New Jersey territories. Together, these projects will generate approximately 14 million kilowatt hours of clean energy and prevent over 7 million pounds of carbon emissions each year. Over the lifetime of the projects, they are expected to generate over 332 million kilowatt hours of clean energy and prevent over 160 million pounds of carbon emissions.

Bloomberg and Common Energy initially started to partner in October 2019 making community solar projects available to over 260 employees at the time. The partnership has since grown and with this expansion is now providing nearly 8,700 employees access across New York, New Jersey and Long Island. Bloomberg will continue to collaborate with Common Energy on projects that align with the company's employee base across the U.S.

Community solar provider Common Energy's corporate programs are an extension of its core mission to accelerate the United States' clean energy transition and enable the public to save money and lower emissions. "Common Energy is proud to partner with Bloomberg and UGE to help connect new clean energy projects to the electrical grid," said Richard Keiser, CEO of Common Energy. "These projects lower emissions across the greater New York and New Jersey regions, benefiting the entire community."

Mateo Chaskel, Managing Director at UGE, said, "UGE is proud to partner with Common Energy and Bloomberg to build, own, and manage these projects. Community solar is a key part of our mission to accelerate clean energy adoption and decarbonize the energy sector."

The partnership with Common Energy is in line with Bloomberg's long-standing commitment to sustainability and reducing emissions. The community solar projects are an addition to other sustainability-focused benefits for Bloomberg employees, such as electric vehicle charging stations in the Princeton, New Jersey office or sustainable food options in catering operations and cafeterias in New York and New Jersey. To learn more about Bloomberg's sustainability initiatives and to read our latest 2020 Impact Report visit www.bloomberg.com/impact.

Contacts

Veronika Henze

Bloomberg LP

+1-646-324-1596

vhenze@bloomberg.net

Haley Steinhauser

Hayward PR

+1-562-991-3170

Haley@haywardpr.com

About Bloomberg LP

Bloomberg LP, the global business and financial information and news leader, gives influential decision makers a critical edge by connecting them to a dynamic network of information, people and ideas. The company's strength - delivering data, news and analytics through innovative technology, quickly and accurately - is at the core of the Bloomberg Terminal. Bloomberg's enterprise solutions build on the company's core strength: leveraging technology to allow customers to access, integrate, distribute and manage data and information across organizations more efficiently and effectively. For more information, visit Bloomberg.com/company or request a demo. Follow Bloomberg and The Terminal on Twitter and on LinkedIn.

About Common Energy

Common Energy is a leading community solar provider that services over 250MW of projects across the country. Common Energy's programs enable homeowners, renters, and businesses to support clean energy, lower emission in their communities and save money on their electricity for free, with their existing utility account. Common Energy currently serves households in Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Oregon. Residents of these states can enroll in a local community solar project for free at www.commonenergy.us Corporations interested in partnering with Common Energy can email partners@commonenergy.us.

About UGE

UGE develops, owns, and operates commercial and community solar projects in the US and strategic markets abroad. Our distributed energy solutions deliver cheaper, cleaner energy to businesses and consumers with no upfront cost. With over 500MW of global experience, we work daily to power a more sustainable world. Visit us at www.ugei.com.

For more information, contact UGE at:

+1 917 720 5685

investors@ugei.com.

###

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90300
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - The Hash Corporation (CSE: REZN) ("Hashco" or the "Company"), a company focusing on the production of hashish and other premium cannabis products using the adaption of old-world traditions, is pleased to announce that it has appointed Todd Shapiro, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Red Light Holland Corp. ("Red Light Holland") to its Advisory Board.

Todd Shapiro has over 20 years of experience as a marketing entrepreneur and brand ambassador having serviced many well established brands including Canopy Growth and Boveda Inc in the Cannabis Industry. As the head of Red Light Holland, Mr. Shapiro, while focusing on building Red Light Holland's brand has developed a global network of contacts in the regulated substance industry, along with a deep understanding of emerging markets, distribution and incredible social media exposure, all of which Hashco hopes to leverage as it positions itself for expansion into the hash and cannabis concentrate market in Canada.

"We are extremely pleased to have Todd join our Advisory Board. He is a visionary with a vast network of connections, and the business acumen necessary to assist Hashco in developing new business opportunities," said Chris Savoie, the Chief Executive Officer and Director of Hashco.

Todd Shapiro is excited to join the team at Hashco and said the following, "We've all heard of hash, but have we all heard of Hashco? I look forward to advising the hard-working team on how to expand their brand name and work within a delicate framework to get as much exposure and distribution as possible."

Todd Shapiro and the Company entered into an advisory board agreement pursuant to which the Company has granted Todd Shapiro an aggregate of 1,000,000 RSUs which will vest quarterly over the first year from the date of issuance. Each vested RSU entitles the holder to receive one common share in the capital of Hashco.

About The Hash Corporation

HashCo is a Canadian company positioning itself to focus on the production and sale of cannabis-based hashish and other cannabis products. HashCo intends to apply its separation and curing techniques to produce a suite of high-quality cannabis resin products, which are all-natural and free of additives and carcinogenic solvents. The Company intends to tailor its product offerings to pay tribute to historic traditions, fragrances and tastes, while upholding the highest health and safety standards.

As of the date of this press release, HashCo is actively seeking and developing partnerships and collaborations with licensed cultivators and other strategic partners within Canada, with the goal of crafting and introducing to the regulated market authentic products which reflect quality and innovation.

For additional information on the Company:

Chris Savoie

Chief Executive Officer and Director

Tel: 1-833-420-7396

Email: chris@hashco.ca

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information in this news release constitutes forward-looking statements under applicable securities laws. Any statements that are contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are often identified by terms such as "may", "should", "anticipate", "expect", "potential", "believe", "intend" or the negative of these terms and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. The forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake an obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise unless required by applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90298
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Maitri Health Technologies Corp. (CSE: MTEC) (FSE: D84) ("Maitri" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, further to its press release dated July 2, 2021, it has completed the acquisition of Round Hill Health Partners dba Bloom Health Partners ("Bloom"). Maitri also announces two new incoming board members who are proven new category leaders: Dr. Nimisha Kalia and John Garcia.

Dr. Nimisha Kalia is currently Chief Medical Officer at GE Corporate. She is board-certified in Internal Medicine, Occupational Medicine, and Public Health and General Preventive Medicine. Among her many achievements, Dr. Kalia held academic appointments at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, and the Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin. She has numerous peer-reviewed publications including return on investment for onsite clinics. She has also consulted on occupational medicine programs for academic hospital systems, Fortune 500 corporations and for international clients in India and China.

John Garcia is an accomplished senior executive who spent 32 years in the telecom industry. As the 40th employee of Sprint Wireless, Mr. Garcia held pivotal roles and oversaw significant growth as SVP-Sales, Chief Marketing Officer and President of Wireless. After retiring from Sprint, he engaged in several strategic consulting projects. Highlights include YRC, the nation's largest less than truckload (LTL) carrier; VRide, a nationwide commuter van service augmenting local commuter services and Otsuka Pharmaceuticals' highly innovative digital health roadmap.

Current directors Hon. Tony Clement and Dr. Sam Pillersdorf will step down from their current board roles and join Maitri's advisory board.

"We're pleased to announce the closing of our acquisition of Bloom," said Andrew Morton, Maitri CEO. "Both the Maitri and Bloom teams performed exceptionally in this closing and confirmed my confidence in our capabilities. We want to thank the Hon. Tony Clement and Dr. Sam Pillersdorf for the great work they've done as directors. We're thrilled that they will continue as advisors as we welcome Dr. Kalia and Mr. Garcia to our board of directors. Our company is well equipped to succeed as a leader in testing, health-tech and occupational health."

"The Bloom team is excited to join forces with Maitri," said Abbas Khan, Bloom Health co-founder. "Our collective teams will bring service and science together in a new way, to deliver a next generation healthcare ecosystem for our clients."

For information regarding the terms of the acquisition of Bloom, readers are encouraged to review the news release issued by the Company on July 2, 2021.

About Maitri Health Technologies

Maitri Health Technologies Corp. (CSE: MTEC) (FSE: D84) is a global platform for healthcare security. Our mission is to enhance safety and quality of life by keeping organizations and economies running. Maitri offers a system for businesses and organizations that helps engage employees and create strategies to manage health and safety. Our stable, scalable system is an integrated health-tech platform that securely manages data while delivering comprehensive workplace health and safety outcomes. For more information: https://maitrihealth.ca/

About Bloom Health

Bloom Health is a trusted occupational health and safety service provider, offering a network of top healthcare professionals and integrated laboratories for Fortune 500 companies, Hollywood productions and major sporting and music events. Bloom Health's mission is to ensure that "unstoppable is possible" for businesses and their employees through innovative, customized healthcare models. For more information, visit www.bloomhealthpartners.com .

For more information: investors@maitrihealth.ca

On behalf of the board of directors,

MAITRI HEALTH TECHNOLOGIES CORP.

Andrew Morton, Chief Executive Officer

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, including statements regarding the benefits of the Bloom Health transaction. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the Company's forward-looking statements include the the potential that milestones may not be satisfied, acquisitions may not achieve expected benefits, financing requirements, and the other risk factors described in the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulators on www.sedar.com. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements except as required under the applicable laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90368
Autonomous heavy equipment pioneer continues global expansion into key markets, bolsters executive team

MILPITAS, Calif., July 15, 2021, a global leader in autonomous heavy equipment, today announced continued global expansion with its entry into Canada. To accelerate growth internationally, including in Canada, today SafeAI also announced that David Prusinski has joined the company as Chief Revenue Officer.



With booming construction and mining industries, Canada is a natural next step for SafeAI's growing business. Canada's mining industry is one of the largest in the world, accounting for 7.8% of the country's GDP in 2020. The country's construction sector is also a leading contributor to the nation's GDP, with continued opportunities for growth due to government-funded infrastructure projects. With its connected autonomous technology, SafeAI is poised to accelerate productivity in the nation's heavy industry.

"At SafeAI, we believe autonomy has the power to create smarter, safer, more productive heavy industry. With flourishing construction and mining sectors, Canada is a natural fit for our business," said Bibhrajit Halder, Founder & CEO at SafeAI. "As we continue to grow our business to meet rising demand for autonomy, we're proud to also expand our executive team. With years of leadership experience, a proven track record of spearheading growth, and knowledge of the Canadian market, David brings an invaluable perspective to our team as we continue to scale our organization and transform off-road autonomous projects globally."

Prusinski brings 25 years of experience driving growth at prominent technology companies across Canada to the CRO role. Prior to joining SafeAI, he worked for nine years at Fleet Complete, one of the fastest-growing providers of connected commercial vehicle solutions. Before that, he also held leadership roles at BlackBerry and InSystems.

"Heavy industry is on the brink of a period of mass adoption for autonomous technology," said Prusinski. "Now that we've seen the value and impact of automation for safer, more efficient construction and mining sites, there is no going back. Today, I'm excited to join the team at SafeAI to drive continued expansion and help companies worldwide unlock the value of connected autonomy to improve safety, reimagine workflows, and power results."

Expansion into Canada comes on the heels of a year of significant growth for SafeAI as the company accelerated off-road deployment of autonomous technology. In late 2020, the company announced partnerships with industry leaders-including Obayashi and The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company -to expand its ecosystem and more effectively deliver autonomy at scale. Earlier this year, SafeAI announced its expansion into Australia, the world's largest mining market, and the addition of several new executives to lead the charge. Most recently, the company announced $21 million in Series A funding to accelerate research and development and global growth.

To learn more about SafeAI's technology, or to get the latest updates, please visit safeai.ai .

About SafeAI

SafeAI is a global autonomous heavy equipment leader focused on advancing modern industry. SafeAI retrofits heavy equipment for autonomous applications in mining and construction to serve a massive ecosystem of industry players with complex needs. By building a software platform with the most advanced, industry-specific AI, SafeAI enables equipment owners to transform existing machines into self-operating robotic assets. The company currently is running an autonomous CAT 725 at a quarry in California. SafeAI is based in Milpitas, CA.
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / Nuinsco Resources Limited ("Nuinsco" or "the Company") (CSE:NWI), is pleased to announce results for previously unsampled drill core from diamond drilling programs conducted at its 100%-owned Prairie Lake project near Terrace Bay, Ontario. This additional sampling of hole NP0713 more than triples the length of the known intercept of niobium (Nb), tantalum (Ta), phosphate (P2O5), and rare earth elements (REE) including lanthanum (La), cerium (Ce), samarium (Sm), neodymium (Nd) and yttrium (Y), extending it by 72m for the hole. The program continues with the sampling focussing on drill holes collared to intercept the Southwest (SW) Area to ultimately provide information to support the Company's goal of establishing a mineral resource on the property.

"The ongoing infill sampling of drill core from the previous drilling programs moves Nuinsco a step closer to upgrading part of the current 515-630 million tonne Exploration Target ("ET" - refer to table below) on the Prairie Lake project to a mineral resource," said Paul Jones, Nuinsco's CEO. "This project is in a logistically excellent location, in a stable jurisdiction, is endowed with a diversity of sought-after elements and commodities including Critical Elements defined under the Canadian Minerals and Metals Plan ("CMMP"). It represents a target of very substantial scope and is a very significant asset to Nuinsco."

A total of 58 drill core samples were collected from NP0713, a 101m long diamond drill hole. A 72m section was sampled from 2m depth down to 74m. NP0713 is one of ten holes from the southeast half of the SW Area target from which samples have been submitted for analyses so far this year (see map). Additional sampling, primarily from the northwest half of the SW Area target, is planned for later this summer.

Hole

ID From

(m) To

(m) Width

(m) Nb2O5

(%) P2O5

(%) Ta2O5

(%) Y

(g/t) La

(g/t) Ce

(g/t) Nd

(g/t) Sm

(g/t) REE

(g/t) NP0713 2.0 74.0 72.0 0.1607 2.61 0.0032 61 231 539 268 46 1145

REE = Sum of Y, La, Ce, Nd, Sm; Y - yttrium, La - lanthanum, Ce - cerium, Nd - neodymium, Sm - samarium;

P2O5 - phosphate, Nb2O5 - niobium oxide, Ta2O5 - tantalum oxide, 1g/t = 1 ppm

When combined with previously reported sampling (see press release dated January 7, 2008), the new results extend the intersection in hole NP0713 by 72m to 0.131 % Nb2O5 and 2.83 % P2O5 with 0.0029 % (29 g/t) Ta2O5 and 1261 g/t REE over 99.0m.

Previous diamond drilling on the Prairie Lake property (2007 to 2010) has returned assays up to:

1.008 % Nb2O5 over 1.0m (NP0711; 97.5-98.5m; carbonatite)

23.08 % P2O5 over 0.44m (NP1005; 336.27-336.71m; carbonatite)

474 g/t Ta over 1.0m (NP0711; 23.75-24.75m; ijolite)

2380 g/t Nd, 1910 g/t La and 4160 g/t Ce over 1.06m (NP1007; 428.0-429.06m; carbonatite)

590 g/t Sm and 887 g/t Y over 1.38m (NP1006; 165.92-167.3m; carbonatite)

The Prairie Lake project consists of 46 mineral claims covering an area of ~630 ha. Logistically Prairie Lake is superbly located, with ready access to power, road, rail and shipping infrastructure; it is easily accessed by an all-weather road from the TransCanada Highway 28 kilometres to the south. The mineralization identified is entirely contained within the Prairie Lake carbonatite complex; the ET of 515-630 million tonnes is defined by 59 diamond drill holes with grades as tabulated below.

All samples were analysed by Activation Laboratories (ActLabs) in Ancaster, Ontario. Samples were analysed for a whole rock and trace element ICP analytical package as well as for niobium, tantalum, and zirconium oxides using a fusion XRF method. An internal Quality Control Quality Assurance (QAQC) program was implemented with four QAQC samples (blanks and reference standards) added into the sampling stream.

Prairie Lake Drilling & Trenching by Target Area1:

SW Jim's Showing East NE Other Areas Total Historic Drill Holes (1969-1983) Drill Holes 16 11 1 0 17 45 Metres 1351.7 938.4 34.1 0 1528.5 3852.7 Drill Holes (2007-2010) Drill Holes 21 10 0 0 1 32 Metres 6632 1692.4 0 0 101 8425.4 Trenches (2010) Trenching 1 0 2 2 0 5 Metres 377.7 0 433.0 754.55 0 1562.2

1 Trench lengths are calculated as cumulative length of samples along trench.

Prairie Lake ET2:

SW Jim's Showing East NE Total REEs La (ppm) Lanthanum 275 - 340 295 - 360 305 - 370 200 - 250 280 - 340 Ce (ppm) Cerium 650 - 790 670 - 820 670 - 820 450 - 550 650 - 790 Sm (ppm) Samarium 55 - 70 55 - 70 55 - 70 50 - 60 55 - 70 Nd (ppm) Neodymium 295 - 360 290 - 360 320 - 390 235 - 290 300 - 360 Y (ppm) Yttrium 85 - 100 90 - 110 80 - 100 135 - 170 85 - 100 La+Ce+Sm+Nd+Y (ppm) 1360 - 1660 1400 - 1720 1430 - 1750 1070 - 1320 1370 - 1660 Additional Elements (as oxides) P2O5 (%) Phosphate 3.0 - 4.0 3.5 - 4.5 2.5 - 3.0 2.5 - 3.5 3.0 - 4.0 Nb2O5 (%) Niobium 0.095 - 0.115 0.100 - 0.120 0.040 - 0.050 0.085 - 0.105 0.090 - 0.110 Ta2O5 (ppm) Tantalum 18 - 25 25 - 30 5 - 7 10 - 12 18 - 21 Volume - m3 (million) 140 - 175 12 - 14 13 - 16 2 - 3 170 - 210 Tonnes (million) 435 - 530 35 - 45 40 - 50 7 - 8 515 - 630

2 The potential quantity and grade of the ET is conceptual in nature and there has been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource. It is uncertain if further exploration will result in the discovery of a mineral resource. There is no National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects preliminary economic assessment in respect of the Prairie Lake ET.

All exploration work at Prairie Lake is supervised by Laura Giroux, P.Geo, Chief Geologist, who acts as Nuinsco's Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101. Ms. Giroux has reviewed and approved the technical contents of this news release.

About Nuinsco Resources Limited

Nuinsco Resources has over 50 years of exploration success and is a growth-oriented, multi-commodity mineral exploration and development company focused on prospective opportunities in Canada and internationally. Currently the Company has four properties in Ontario - the high-grade Sunbeam gold property near Atikokan, the Dash Lake gold property near Terrace Bay, the large multi-commodity (rare-earths, niobium, tantalum, phosphate) Prairie Lake project near Terrace Bay, and the Zig Zag Lake property (lithium, tantalum) near Armstrong. In addition, Nuinsco has an agreement for gold exploitation at the El Sid project in the Eastern Desert of Egypt.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements." All statements, other than statements of historic fact, that address activities, events or developments that Nuinsco believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek," "anticipate," "believe," "plan," "estimate, "expect," and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may," "will," "can," "should," "could," or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. These forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations or beliefs of Nuinsco based on information currently available to Nuinsco. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of Nuinsco to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on Nuinsco. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things, failure to successfully complete financings, capital and other costs varying significantly from estimates, production rates varying from estimates, changes in world copper and/or gold markets, changes in equity markets, uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, equipment failure, unexpected geological conditions, imprecision in resource estimates, success of future development initiatives, competition, operating performance of facilities, environmental and safety risks, delays in obtaining or failure to obtain tenure to properties and/or necessary permits and approvals, and other development and operating risks. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, Nuinsco disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although Nuinsco believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein.

To learn more, please visit www.nuinsco.ca or contact:

Paul Jones, CEO

paul.jones@nuinsco.ca

Sean Stokes, Executive VP

sean.stokes@nuinsco.ca

Cathy Hume, Consultant

cathy@chfir.com

416 868-1079 x 231

Instagram: @nuinscoresources

Twitter: @NWIResources

SOURCE: Nuinsco Resources Limited

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655622/Nuinsco-Continues-to-Extend-Mineralized-Intersections-with-Ongoing-Infill-Sampling-Program-at-Prairie-Lake-Rare-Metals-Project
SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / Libertas Funding, LLC (Libertas), a technology-enabled specialty finance company that provides funding solutions to small and medium-sized businesses (SMB), today announced that it has entered into a warehouse financing agreement of up to $100 million with Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), the bank of the world's most innovative companies and their investors.This agreement provides financing to be used for Libertas' origination of revenue-based funding to enable SMBs to achieve their growth objectives.

Based in Greenwich, Connecticut, Libertas is a leader in revenue-based financing, having provided total funding approaching $1 billion to its customers since its inception in September 2016. Libertas was established to address the unique capital needs of SMBs-its fast, flexible funding solutions are designed to help SMBs solve the working capital challenges they often face and enable them to pursue growth opportunities. Companies seeking capital from Libertas can secure funding in as fast as 1-2 business days.

"We are excited to partner with Silicon Valley Bank, a true digital banking leader, whose commitment to customer service and integrity closely aligns with our core values," said Randy Saluck, the CEO of Libertas. 'Now, more than ever, small and medium-sized businesses need quick access to funding to meet their working capital requirements."

Since its inception, Libertas has taken a unique "hands-on" approach to funding by combining its efficient automated application system with a customer-focused process, providing customers guidance throughout the transaction. 'At Libertas, we recognize that every business is unique," Saluck said. "We talk to each of our SMB customers to understand their businesses and provide financing to meet their capital needs. Our partnership with SVB enables us to provide lower cost and more flexible financing solutions to help our clients reach their goals.'

"As the economy recovers from the pandemic, supporting small businesses is as important as ever," said Nick Christian, Head of Specialty Finance at Silicon Valley Bank. "We're proud to provide this warehouse facility to Libertas as it continues to grow and help more small businesses succeed."

SVB's specialty finance group provides revolving lines of credit and term loans to companies and funds active in the consumer and enterprise sectors. The specialty finance team has deep, proven expertise providing custom credit solutions such as warehouse facilities.

About Silicon Valley Bank

For nearly 40 years, Silicon Valley Bank has helped innovative companies and their investors move bold ideas forward, fast. SVB provides targeted financial services and expertise through its offices in innovation centers around the world. With commercial, international and private banking services, SVB helps address the unique needs of innovators. Learn more at svb.com.

About Libertas

Founded in 2016, Libertas Funding, LLC is a technology-driven specialty finance and asset management company with a leadership team that has a combined 100+ years in the finance and credit industries. Since its inception, Libertas has provided total funding approaching $1 billion to SMBs to meet its clients' capital requirements. Libertas offers a unique approach using a flexible model that addresses individual business needs through a combination of technology and a focus on interactive customer service. Libertas leads with integrity and truly cares about its customers. For more information about Libertas, visit https://libertasfunding.com/

Media Contact:

Julia Thompson

Silicon Valley Bank

Jthompson3@svb.com

SOURCE: Libertas Funding, LLC

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655613/Libertas-Secures-100-Million-Warehouse-Facility-from-Silicon-Valley-Bank
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Sensor Technologies Corp. (CSE: SENS) ("Sensor") would like to provide an update on its proposed acquisition of all of the issued and outstanding securities (the "Proposed Acquisition") in the capital of EmersonGrow Technology Inc. ("EmersonGrow"). Further to Sensor's press release of January 20, 2020, February 1, 2021, March 18, 2021, April 6, 2021 and June 7, 2021, EmersonGrow has delivered to Sensor its updated financial information for its year ended July 31, 2020. Sensor is currently conducting its financial due diligence and has requested additional information from EmersonGrow.

As previously reported, the parties have agreed to amend the purchase price from $20 million to $15 million (the "Amended Purchase Price"). The Amended Purchase Price will be satisfied through the issuance of an aggregate of 100,000,000 common shares in the capital of Sensor at a deemed price of $0.15 per share. In addition, the closing of the Proposed Acquisition will be conditional on the closing of a private placement for minimum aggregate proceeds of $1 million, the terms of which will be agreed to by Sensor and EmersonGrow.

Sensor and the shareholders of EmersonGrow have not yet executed a definitive agreement with respect to the Proposed Acquisition and there can be no assurance that that the parties will execute a definitive agreement or that the Proposed Acquisition will be completed on the terms agreed to or completed at all.

The entering into of the definitive agreement will be considered a fundamental change under Policy 8 of the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") and, as such, will subject to all of the requirements of Policy 8 including, but not limited to, CSE and shareholder approval.

About EmersonGrow Technology Inc.

EmersonGrow is a Canadian AgTech company specializing in Digital LED Grow Lights with Integrated IOT capabilities for the Global Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) industry. The company's patented hardware and software interface enables the full and independent digital control of an LED Light's spectrum, allowing growers to create their own proprietary 'Light Recipes' for different plant cultivars grown in various environments.

In addition to evolving lighting design and hardware components, EmersonGrow is launching a mobile application for growers to control their digital lights and connect and collaborate with other growers around the world. The proposed mobile application will include a recipe store for the sharing of optimal lighting and climate conditions between commercial, hobby and home growers, helping to bridge the knowledge gap between the world's best master growers and emerging growers in greenhouse, horticulture vertical farming and cannabis.

LED Grow Lights are wildly used in vertical farming, commercial greenhouses, and cannabis cultivation as growers and operators are increasingly aware of the long-term operational benefits, such as energy efficiency, low heat emission, versatile hardware design, space saving, extended lifespan and the ability to apply a targeted spectrum of light that serves to maximize a plants photosynthetic conversion capabilities. As LED grow lights have been adopted by world-class operators, the trend of indoor growing has becoming more popular than ever. The industry trend for indoor farming have sparked the growth of LED grow lights market, which is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.86% from 2020 to 2022.

EmersonGrow was founded on a vision to transform a growers lighting experience from analog control to a fully digital interface, promoting total control for a grower to apply the right light, at the right intensity, at the right time throughout a plant's lifecycle, maximizing energy savings without compromising yield. The digital interface and innovative lighting designs provided by EmersonGrow aim to maximize the operational and energy efficiency of grower operations around the world. The company plans to further enable AI and machine learning capabilities in their lighting products through the integration of data collection devices to their light designs, creating a cloud database of global plant and environment data.

About Sensor

Sensor develops non-intrusive asset health monitoring sensor systems for the oil and gas market to help operators track the thinning of pipelines and refinery vessels due to corrosion/erosion, strain due to bending/buckling and process pressure and temperature. Sensor's FT fiber optic sensor and corrosion monitoring systems allow cost-effective, 24/7 remote monitoring capabilities to improve scheduled maintenance operations, avoid unnecessary shutdowns, and prevent accidents and leaks.

For further information, please contact:

Jay Vieira, President, Director

905.338.0220

jay@fox-tek.com

The CSE has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note regarding Forward-looking Statements

This news release includes certain information and forward-looking statements about management's view of future events, expectations, plans and prospects that constitute forward-looking statements. These statements are based upon assumptions that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Because of these risks and uncertainties and as a result of a variety of factors, the actual results, expectations, achievements or performance may differ materially from those anticipated and indicated by these forward looking statements. Although the Corporation believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that the expectations of any forward-looking statement will prove to be correct. Except as required by law, the Corporation disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward looking statements or otherwise.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90327
CHICAGO, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a research report "Drone Inspection and Monitoring Market by Solution (Platform, Software, Infrastructure and Service), Type (Fixed Wing, Multirotor, Hybrid), Applications (Constructions & Infrastructure, Agriculture), Mode of Operations, & Region - Global Forecast to 2030", published by MarketsandMarkets, the overall Drone Inspection & Monitoring Market is projected to grow from USD 9.1 billion in 2021 to USD 33.6 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 15.7% from 2021 to 2030. North America is estimated to account for the largest share of the drone inspection & monitoring market from 2021 to 2030. The incorporation of artificial intelligence in drones has not only enhanced their capabilities but has also enabled them to carry out several activities such as takeoff, navigation, data capture, data transmission, and data analysis without human intervention. The outbreak and the spread of the COVID-19 led to increased demand and use of drones, as their benefits outweigh the potential challenges and difficulties related to them. They are being used in Africa, Asia, and North America to deliver COVID-19 vaccines and inspect and monitor the outbreak in remote places of countries like China. Police and government officers the world over have utilized drones to achieve remote policing and impose social distancing.

Ask for PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=99915267

" By application, Construction & Infrastructure sub-segment of Drone Inspection And Monitoring Market would have the highest CAGR during the forecast period"

Based on application, the Drone Inspection And Monitoring market has been classified into agriculture, construction & infrastructure, oil & gas, mining, utilities and others. For this segment of Drone Inspection And Monitoring Market, the Construction & Infrastructure sub-segment is projected to register the highest market size from 2021 to 2030 and it also has the highest CAGR from 2021 to 2030. This is due to high quality, accurate, and cost-effective data processing with drone technology.

"By solution, the services segment is estimated to lead the Drone Inspection And Monitoring market"

By solution, the Drone Inspection And Monitoring market has been segmented into platform, infrastructure, software and services. Each of them performs a different function and ensures drone's functioning in different applications. By solution, the services segment is estimated to lead the drone inspection & monitoring market from 2021 to 2030 due to the quick, cost-effective, and accurate data processing capabilities of drones compared to traditional methods. Also, the platform segment is projected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period.

" By type, the hybrid segment is projected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period"

Based on type, the drone inspection & monitoring market has been segmented into fixed wing, multirotor, and hybrid. The hybrid segment is projected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period due to hybrid drones' enhanced payload and endurance capabilities compared to fixed-wing and multirotor type drones. Also, the multirotor segment would have the highest market of Drone Inspection And Monitoring during the forecast period.

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"By mode of operation, optionally piloted segment is estimated to account for the largest market share of Drone Inspection And Monitoring market during the forecast period"

Based on mode of operation, the drone inspection & monitoring market has been segmented into remotely piloted, optionally piloted, and fully autonomous. The optionally piloted segment is estimated to account for the largest share of from 2021 to 2030 for the drone inspection & monitoring market during the forecast period owing to its demand in precision agriculture, disaster relief, traffic monitoring, and building inspection. Also, the fully autonomous segment is projected to grow with the highest CAGR during the forecast period.

" Asia Pacific is projected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period."

The drone inspection & monitoring market in Asia Pacific is projected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The growth of this regional market can be attributed to the increasing demand for drones in growing economies like China and India, where drones are widely employed for inspection and monitoring tasks in the agriculture and utility sectors.

Major players operating in the Drone Inspection And Monitoring market include Intertek (UK), MISTRAS Group (US), Wipro (India), Intel Corporation (US), Lockheed Martin Corporation (US), Northrop Grumman Corporation (US), SZ DJI Technology Co., Ltd. (China), Parrot SA (France). These key players offer drones applicable for various sector and have well-equipped and strong distribution networks across the North American, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Rest of the World (RoW).

Related Reports:

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Market by Point of Sale, Systems, Platform (Civil & Commercial, and Defense & Governement), Function, End Use, Application, Type, Mode of Operation, MTOW, Range, and Region - Global Forecast to 2026

Drone Package Delivery Market by Solution (Platform, Infrastructure, Software, Service), Type (Fixed-Wing, Multirotor, Hybrid) Range (Short <25 km, Long>25 km), Package Size (< 2Kg, 2-5 Kg, > 5Kg), Duration, End Use, Region- Global Forecast to 2030

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Investment made in partnership with the CEO and Founder with the aim to accelerate Duco's growth and expansion

STOCKHOLM, Sweden, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Nordic Capital today announced an agreement to invest in Duco Technology Limited ("Duco") and acquire a majority shareholding from current investors, CME Ventures, Insight Partners and Eight Roads Ventures. Founder Christian Nentwich will remain as a shareholder and Chief Executive Officer.

Nordic Capital will utilise its experience within the Technology and Payments sector, as well as its broad network and operational resources to accelerate the transformative growth of the business. The data automation market is growing rapidly, and Nordic Capital's investment will enable the business to further increase its international footprint whilst also supporting product expansion and employee growth.

Duco provides Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions in the cloud to Financial Services, Insurance and FinTech companies dealing with mission critical data management issues. Duco's mission is to "make managing data easy" by replacing spreadsheets and technology-heavy solutions in areas like data prep, reconciliation, data quality and data management with a user-friendly, machine learning-powered platform.

Headquartered in London, Duco has 140 employees in the UK, US, Singapore and Poland. Duco's software is used by 14 of the top 30 global banks, asset managers with over $10 trillion in assets, leading payments innovators, exchanges and custodians, and insurers.

"We are very pleased to be partnering with Nordic Capital for the next part of Duco's journey. Together we will be able to take the business to its next level as they have a strong track record of scaling fast-growing businesses such as Duco. Companies face huge, unsolved problems in the data management and data automation areas. We are passionate about solving these problems in new ways that make people's work lives more enjoyable and have immediate and substantial agility and cost benefits to our clients. Nordic Capital's strategic expertise, focus on growth and execution best practice mean that we can accelerate from here and strengthen our strategy with both organic and acquisition growth in the future," said Christian Nentwich, CEO, Duco, adding "I would also like to thank our outgoing investors and our independent board members, Cris Conde, Kirsten Wolberg and Spencer Lake, for their support and guidance that led us to where we are today."

"The reconciliation market is growing quickly with strong structural tail winds. Duco brings state-of-the art solutions challenging established legacy point solutions and vastly improve processes. Duco has demonstrated strong leadership and innovation to move technology in Financial Services forward, with its focus on cloud-only delivery and self-service for end users. We are excited about the positioning of the company to respond to major trends that are gaining rapid traction, its great reputation with its clients, and the strength of its technology. Nordic Capital is looking forward to supporting the next phase of Duco's journey alongside Christian and the management team," said Emil Anderson, Principal, Nordic Capital Advisors.

Nordic Capital is a leading specialised Technology & Payments investor in Europe with a long and extensive history and experience of investing and supporting sustainable growth in technology software and Financial Service companies. To date, Nordic Capital has deployed more than EUR 4.5 billion of equity across 21 technology companies since 2001 and has significant experience in software as well as payments.

Nordic Capital supports businesses to accelerate growth through expansion into new markets, new product development, improving go-to-market and talent acquisitions, amongst other initiatives. The goal is to use operational experience, capital and business acumen to create strong, sustainable businesses that will thrive in the long term.

The terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Arma Partners served as financial advisors to Duco management and institutional shareholders.

About Duco

Duco, a leading data automation company, is helping businesses to unleash their potential by removing the friction around data. Duco's cloud-based, no-code platform brings together data quality, reconciliation, data preparation and management, giving firms the tools they need to increase business agility, reduce risk, stay compliant with regulation and dramatically improve efficiency. Over 10,000 users across 30+ countries process billions of data records every week using the platform. Duco is headquartered in London, with offices in New York, Edinburgh, Wroclaw and Singapore. Customers include global banks, investment managers, insurance firms and challenger fintech companies, such as Societe Generale, ING, Man Group and Currencycloud. For more information go towww.du.co

About Nordic Capital

Nordic Capital is a leading private equity investor with a resolute commitment to creating stronger, sustainable businesses through operational improvement and transformative growth. Nordic Capital focuses on selected regions and sectors where it has deep experience and a long history. Focus sectors are Healthcare, Technology & Payments, Financial Services, and selectively, Industrial & Business Services. Key regions are Europe and globally for Healthcare and Technology & Payments investments. Since inception in 1989, Nordic Capital has invested more than EUR 17 billion in close to 120 investments. The most recent funds are Nordic Capital Fund X with EUR 6.1 billion in committed capital and Nordic Capital Evolution Fund with EUR 1.2 billion in committed capital, principally provided by international institutional investors such as pension funds. Nordic Capital Advisors have local offices in Sweden, the UK, the US, Germany, Denmark, Finland and Norway. For further information about Nordic Capital, please visit www.nordiccapital.com.

"Nordic Capital" refers to any, or all, Nordic Capital branded funds and vehicles and associated entities. The general partners and/or delegated portfolio manager of Nordic Capital's funds and vehicles are advised by several non-discretionary sub-advisory entities, any or all of which are referred to as "Nordic Capital Advisors".

Media contacts

Nordic Capital

Katarina Janerud, Communications Manager

Nordic Capital Advisors

Tel: +46 8 440 50 50

e-mail: katarina.janerud@nordiccapital.com

Duco

Annie Knight / Megan Hill

Wildfire PR

duco@wildfirepr.com

+44 208 408 8000

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Halucenex a key strategic asset for proposed merger between Red Light Holland and Creso Pharma to create The HighBrid Lab

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Red Light Holland Corp. (CSE: TRIP) (FSE: 4YX) (OTC Pink: TRUFF) ("Red Light Holland" or the "Company"), an Ontario-based corporation engaged in the production, growth and sale of a premium brand of magic truffles to the legal, recreational market within the Netherlands, is pleased to announce that Creso Pharma Ltd. ("Creso Pharma") has completed its previously announced acquisition of Halucenex Life Sciences Inc. ("Halucenex").

The acquisition of Halucenex followed considerable due diligence and marks Creso Pharma's entry into the psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy ("PAP") sector. Halucenex has submitted an application for a Dealer's License under both the Narcotics Control Regulations and Part J of the Food and Drugs Regulations. Subject to the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, Halucenex is expected to begin phase II clinical trials to demonstrate the efficacy of Psilocybin therapy in the treatment of treatment-resistant depression in Canadian veterans and everyday individuals living with debilitating conditions. In May, Halucenex secured additional GMP grade synthetic psilocybin, taking total secured inventory to 22.3 grams, making it one of the largest holders of single batch GMP synthetic psilocybin in Canada (refer to Creso Pharma press release dated May 14, 2021).

Halucenex's recent operational progress (refer to Creso Pharma press release dated July 15, 2021) includes the completion of all USP 61 requirements, which provide validation for the use of its GMP grade psilocybin. Halucenex will now progress the USP 62 test, which will highlight the shelf life of its psilocybin samples, as well as provide additional validation. USP 62 test protocols are currently underway and will be completed in the coming weeks.

Following completion of these tests, Halucenex will be positioned to apply for Clinical Trial Authorization ("CTA") and subject to the receipt of its Dealer's License from Health Canada, commence a phase II clinical trial into the efficacy of psilocybin on treatment resistant post-traumatic stress disorder. Halucenex can apply for its CTA prior to the receipt of its Dealer's License from Health Canada, expediting its clinical trial process (refer to Creso Pharma press release dated July 15, 2021).

The acquisition of Halucnex is a key strategic asset for the proposed merger of Creso Pharma and Red Light Holland to create the HighBrid Lab. Red Light Holland is expected to work closely with the Halucenex and Creso Pharma teams to explore additional opportunities through Halucenex. Red Light Holland continues to advance discussions with Mera Life Sciences regarding a previously announced potential investment in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, which is also expected to form part of The HighBrid Lab's applied science platform. Subject to the completion of the merger, The HighBrid Lab will leverage the significant pharmaceutical expertise of Halucenex and Creso Pharma's management team through all applied science activities.

"Creso's completion of the Halucenex Life Sciences acquisition is an important psychedelic piece of the puzzle aligning with our core focus," said Todd Shapiro, CEO and Director of Red Light Holland. "Halucenex has clearly made significant progress in recent months and is well positioned to apply for clinical trial authorization and begin phase 2 trials, subject to the receipt of its Dealer's License. This program is a fantastic first initiative for the HighBrid Lab's applied science platform and represents a clear synergy of the proposed merger between Red Light Holland and Creso Pharma. Prior to the completion of the merger, both companies are working together to capitalize on potential synergies, such as SR Wholesale's recent order to purchase Creso Pharma CBD products for sale in the Netherlands. We are confident that we will be able to unlock value from several other synergies upon the expected completion of the transaction."

Further details will be announced once available and as the contours of the The HighBrid Lab begin to take shape.

About Red Light Holland

Red Light Holland is an Ontario-based corporation engaged in the production, growth and sale (through existing Smart Shops operators and an advanced e-commerce platform) of a premium brand of magic truffles to the legal market within the Netherlands.

For additional information on the Company:

Todd Shapiro

Chief Executive Officer & Director

Tel: 647-204-7129

Email: todd@redlighttruffles.com

Website: https://redlighttruffles.com/

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE") nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are not representative of historical facts or information or current condition, but instead represent only the Company's beliefs regarding future events, plans or objectives, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of the Company's control.

Generally, such forward-looking information or forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or may contain statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "will continue", "will occur" or "will be achieved". The forward-looking information and forward- looking statements contained herein include but are not limited to: information regarding the Company's ability to complete the previously announced merger with Creso Pharma, the ability of the Company to accelerate its growth profile following the completion of the merger with Cresco Pharma, the anticipated benefits and synergies of the merger with Creso Pharma, the anticipated completion of tests conducted by Halucenx, Halucenx obtaining a CTA and receipt of Dealer's License and the anticipated effects for Red Light Holland's business and the medical psilocybin industry, the anticipated creation of the HighBird Lab and the involvement of Halucenex and Creso Pharma, and the partnership between Red Light Holland and Mera Life Sciences regarding any potential investments.

Forward-looking information in this news release are based on certain assumptions and expected future events, namely: the Company's ability to continue as a going concern; the continued commercial viability and growth in popularity of functional mushrooms and/or magic truffles; continued approval of the Company's activities by the relevant governmental and/or regulatory authorities; the continued development of functional mushroom and magic truffle growth technology; the continued growth of the Company; the Company's ability to finance the closing of the Company's merger with Creso Pharma; the Company's ability to attain regulatory approval of its merger with Creso Pharma; and the ability of the Company to fulfil the listing requirements of the CSE.

These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements, including but not limited to: the ability of Red Light Holland to continue as a going concern; the risks associated with the psychedelics industry in general such as operational risks in growing, competition, incorrect assessment of the value and potential benefits of various transactions; failure to obtain required regulatory and other approvals, in particular with respect to completing its planned merger with Creso Pharma; risks associated with the Company's ability to finance the planned merger with Creso Pharma; and the risk that the Company's planned merger with Creso Pharma will not accelerate the Company's growth profile and/or increase profits.

Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated.

Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement and reflect our expectations as of the date hereof, and thus are subject to change thereafter. Red Light Holland disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90342
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Snowy Owl Gold Corp. (CSE: SNOW) (FSE: 84L) ("Snowy Owl" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Rosatelli as a new independent member of its Board of Directors. Mr. Rosatelli is replacing Mr. Edward Ierfino, who has decided to retire from the Board to focus on his other business ventures. Mr. Rosatelli is an accomplished mineral exploration geologist, currently serving as Golden Valley Mines Ltd. and Val-d'Or Mining Corporation Vice-President Exploration. Mr. Rosatelli has worked as an exploration geologist for over 30 years in various positions with major and junior mining companies, including BHP Billiton (McVicar Minerals JV), Anglo-Gold, BandOre, and Kennecott. His experience covers a broad range of exploration activities from project inception through to the initial grassroots to advanced stages of project development. Mr. Rosatelli has been involved in or directed exploration programs over a diverse range of commodities, including precious and base metals, diamonds, iron ore and uranium deposits across Canada, Africa and South America. He holds a M.Sc. degree in Mineral Exploration from Queens University.

"I am pleased to welcome Michael to Snowy Owl Gold. His knowledge and experience in mining will be a valued addition to Snowy Owl's technical team," said David Patterson, Chairman of the Board of Directors. "Michael has proven to be a strong leader throughout his career and has gained extensive experience in Quebec. We are looking forward to working with Michael and are privileged to have such a talented professional joining our Board."

"I look forward to contributing to the Company's strategies as it continues to scale. I believe Snowy Owl has the solid foundation and the talent it needs to meet its growth objectives," said Michael Rosatelli.

Michael further stated, "Regarding the Golden Eagle Property, I have had an opportunity to review the work performed by Snowy Owl's technical team to date and, in particular, their in-depth analysis of the airborne magnetic data collected during the 2020 field season on Snowy Owl's 100% owned Golden Eagle property. This is important because the geophysical analysis has yielded a new interpretation of the property's geology, indicating that favourable greenstone belt geology may be more extensive than historically mapped. In June of this year, Snowy Owl's geological team uncovered sulphide-bearing, quartz-carbonate veining. These are strong indicators of hydrothermal activity and very important for precious and base metal mineralization."

Patterson added, "Additionally, I would like to thank Edward for his time and contributions to Snowy Owl. He has been a critical board member that added strategic input on capital markets and deep expertise in business management. We wish Edward the very best in his future endeavours."

The Company also announces that it has granted an aggregate of 500,000 stock options to certain directors, officers, employees and consultants of the Company, exercisable for a period of five years, at an exercise price of $0.135. The stock options are being granted pursuant to the terms of the Company's stock option plan and are subject to regulatory approval.

Snowy Owl would also like to announce that it has retained the services of Mr. Gary Posner, through 1407535 Ontario Limited, to provide ongoing marketing and other corporate advisory services to the Company in consideration for the issuance of 1,000,000 warrants, exercisable to acquire up to 1,000,000 common shares of the Company, at a price of $0.135, for a period of one year. No other compensation is payable to Mr. Posner, and the securities are subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one from their date of issue.

Raymond Wladichuk, P.Geo., CEO of Snowy Owl, and a "Qualified Person" for National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release.

About Snowy Owl Gold Corp.

Snowy Owl Gold Corp. is a mineral exploration company focused on acquiring, exploring, and developing gold projects in Quebec, Canada. The Company has 100% interest in the Panache Property, which consists of 12 map designated claims ("CDC") covering a total of 678 hectares, and the Golden Eagle Property, which consists of 161 map designated claims ("CDC") covering a total of 8,887.65 hectares (88.87 km2) within the Abitibi region located in Quebec, Canada. Additional information on Snowy Owl Gold Corp. is available at http://www.snowyowlgold.com/

On Behalf of the Board of Directors,

SNOWY OWL GOLD CORP.

"Raymond Wladichuk"

Chief Executive Officer

For further information, please contact:

Elyssia Patterson - CFO

Tel: +1 (778) 683 4324

Email: info@snowyowlgold.com

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the CSE policies) accepts responsibility for this release's adequacy or accuracy.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements". Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Snowy Owl Gold's actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "could" or "should" occur.

Although Snowy Owl Gold believes the forward-looking information contained in this news release is reasonable based on information available on the date hereof, by their nature, forward-looking statements involve assumptions, known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

Examples of such assumptions, risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, assumptions, risks and uncertainties associated with general economic conditions; the Covid-19 pandemic; adverse industry events; future legislative and regulatory developments in the mining sector; the Company's ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources, and/or inability to access sufficient capital on favorable terms; mining industry and markets in Canada and generally; the ability of Snowy Owl Gold to implement its business strategies; competition; and other assumptions, risks and uncertainties.

The forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the expectations of the Company as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. While the Company may elect to, it does not undertake to update this information at any particular time except as required in accordance with applicable laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90311
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Appia Energy Corp. (the "Company" or "Appia") (CSE: API) (OTCQB: APAAF) (FSE: A0I.F) (FSE: A0I.MU) (FSE: A0I.BE) is pleased to provide an update regarding the Company's comprehensive drilling program to expand and confirm the extent of the estimated high grade mineralization of rare earth elements ("REE") and gallium on the 100%-owned Alces Lake project, Athabasca Basin area, northern Saskatchewan.

ALCES LAKE HIGH-GRADE REE PROJECT

As announced on June 14, 2021, Appia has now successfully completed the first phase of the summer 2021 exploration program. Accomplishments to date:

geological mapping and prospecting program over key areas of the Alces Lake property;

stripping of overburden and channel sampling, detailed mapping of new and existing rare earth occurrences was conducted;

125 rock samples were sent to the Saskatchewan Research Council for analysis;

high-resolution ground Magnetic-VLF survey was completed over key areas;

completion of a high-resolution airphoto survey as well as a digital elevation model over the entire property has also been completed; and

an airborne radiometric-magnetic survey is currently underway over the entire property.

The stripping of overburden and channel sampling, detailed mapping of new and existing rare earth occurrences was conducted to determine controls on rare earth mineralization. The airphoto survey will aid in aerial geophysical survey calibration and provide comprehensive elevation data for future modelling and resource estimation.

With the first phase of ground geology and geophysics completed, the drilling team is about to mobilize to the Alces Lake camp, where two drilling rigs and crews will be working 24/7 on this phase of the helicopter-supported diamond drilling program.

Approximately 5,700 metres of drilling has been planned to test the near-surface and down-plunge extents of new and existing rare-earth targets. More than 4,000 metres will be dedicated to identifying the depth potential of the WRCB zone (cumulatively the Wilson-Richard-Charles-Bell discoveries) and help complete the understanding of this significant discovery.

Nic Guest, Alces Lake Project Manager noted that, "The quality of the data obtained in the first phase of ground exploration is excellent. Our understanding of the various occurrences across the property has grown and we have planned our drill program accordingly. Our first phase of 2021 drilling will give us new and important information."

The Company is fully-funded for the 2021 program and all required permits for the exploration activities are in-hand.

With the largest exploration and diamond drilling program in the Company's history now underway, exploration results will be released as received and analysed by the Company. Analysis of the summer exploration and drilling program will follow and lead to the preparation of an NI 43-101 (Technical Report with 3D Geophysical-geological Models & Preliminary Economic Assessment) report expected near the end of 2021. The Alces Lake project encompasses some of the highest-grade total and critical* REEs and gallium mineralization in the world, hosted within a number of surface and near surface monazite occurrences that remain open at depth and along strike.

Since detailed exploration began at Alces Lake in 2017, a total of seventy-four (74) REE, gallium and uranium bearing surface zones and occurrences of the minerals system (the "System") have been discovered, suggesting a high exploration potential of the System over 45 km strike length of the project. To date, less than 1% of the project has been explored with diamond drilling.

The project is located in northern Saskatchewan, the same provincial jurisdiction that is developing a "first-of-its-kind" rare earth processing facility in Canada (currently under construction by the Saskatchewan Research Council, it is scheduled to become operational in late 2022). The Alces Lake project area is 14,344 hectares (35,420 acres) in size and is 100% owned by Appia.

To ensure safe work conditions are met for the workforce, the Company has developed exploration guidelines that comply with the Saskatchewan Public Health Orders and the Public Health Order Respecting the Northern Saskatchewan Administration District in order to maintain social distancing and help prevent the transmission of COVID-19.

* Critical rare earth elements are defined here as those that are in short-supply and high-demand for use in permanent magnets and modern electronic applications such as electric vehicles and wind turbines (i.e: neodymium (Nd), praseodymium (Pr), dysprosium (Dy) and terbium (Tb)).

The technical content in this news release was reviewed and approved by Dr. Irvine R. Annesley, P.Geo, Advisor to Appia's Board of Directors, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

About Appia

Appia is a Canadian publicly-listed company in the uranium and rare earth element sectors. The Company is currently focusing on delineating high-grade critical rare earth elements, gallium and uranium on the Alces Lake property, as well as exploring for high-grade uranium in the prolific Athabasca Basin on its Loranger, North Wollaston, and Eastside properties. The Company holds the surface rights to exploration for 65,601 hectares (162,104 acres) in Saskatchewan. The Company also has a 100% interest in 12,545 hectares (31,000 acres), with rare earth element and uranium deposits over five mineralized zones in the Elliot Lake Camp, Ontario.

Appia has 107.6 million common shares outstanding, 128.1 million shares fully diluted.

For more information, visit the Appia's website at: www.appiaenergy.ca.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This News Release contains forward-looking statements which are typically preceded by, followed by or including the words "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans" or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance as they involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward- looking statements and shareholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such statements.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For further information, please contact:

Tom Drivas, CEO and Director: (cell) 416-876-3957, (fax) 416-218-9772 or (email) appia@appiaenergy.ca

Frederick Kozak, President: (cell) 403-606-3165 or (email) fkozak@appiaenergy.ca

Frank van de Water, Chief Financial Officer and Director, (tel) 416-546-2707, (fax) 416-218-9772 or (email) fvandewater@rogers.com





To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90326.
The Newly Institute is honoured to be a member of this prestigious organization. The Drug Science Medical Psychedelics Working Group is a consortium of Drug Science experts, industry partners, patient representatives and policy makers that aims to break the barriers of 50 years of medical censorship by creating a rational and enlightened approach to psychedelic research and clinical treatment.

Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Aspen Island Therapeutics Inc. DBA the Newly Institute ("The Newly Institute" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a joint working agreement with Drug Science and membership into the Drug Science Medical Psychedelics Working Group. Drug Science's mission is founded on their efforts, and their many hours of work delivering, reviewing and investigating evidence relating to psychoactive drugs with one single minded message - to tell the truth about drugs. Led by Professor David Nutt, the committee is made of international accomplished, respected and authoritative individual in science, academia and policy, united with a passionate belief in the pursuit of knowledge.

Professor Jo Neill, Chair of the Medical Psychedelics Working Group, stated: "We are delighted to welcome The Newly Institute to the Drug Science Medical Psychedelics working group as an International Industry partner. Psychedelic medicine is a much needed paradigm shift in global health care and we welcome international partners and expertise."

In addition, the Company also is pleased its Chief Medical Officer, Dr. R. Tanguay, has joined the UK-based Scientific Committee of Drug Science. Dr. Tanguay noted upon joining the Drug Science team, "To join the Drug Science team, led by Professor David Nutt and scientists from around the world, is an incredible honour. As The Newly Institute places itself as a leader in mental health, pain, and addictions treatment, psychedelics may play an important role for those not responding to traditional treatment. Working with Drug Science and Professor Nutt to provide high quality, scientifically based information and evidence-based comment and analysis of new research, The Newly Institute will be at the forefront of treatment and cements its place as Canada's leader in helping people recover and get their lives back."

About The Newly Institute

The Newly Institute believes that mental health treatment is in drastic need of a paradigm shift, and our practice was founded to provide long-lasting change within this industry, our community, and with our clients. By fusing a bio-psycho-social-spiritual treatment model with psychedelic-assisted therapies, patients can overcome deeply embedded traumas that prevent them from living fully in their everyday lives. Our programs are based on evidence and data, but our approach is personal because we know it is vital that people feel safe to be vulnerable during this process.

With locations opening in Calgary, AB, Fredericton, NB, Edmonton, AB, as well as several more Canadian cities, The Newly Institute's is on-track to become Canada's largest and premier operator of psychedelic assisted psychotherapy clinics.

SOURCE: The Newly Institute

For further information: Investor, Media, and General Inquiries: ir@thenewly.ca

Related Links:

www.thenewly.ca

www.drugscience.org.uk

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90334
Edmonton, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Altiplano Metals Inc. (TSXV: APN) (WKN: A2JNFG) ("Altiplano" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on the ventilation upgrades at the Farellon Copper-Gold (Cu-Au) mine located near La Serena, Chile.

The Company is pleased to report that work for the new ventilation system is progressing at the Farellon site with the completion of the pre-installation civil works and the arrival of the new fans (see news release May 17, 2021). Andres Encina, Chilean Country Manager comments, "The installation of the new ventilation system is part of the ongoing development and sustainability practices at Farellon. This work is designed to assist with productivity improvements over the next few months in advance of the mill start-up. The upgrade in ventilation maintains the health and well-being of the workers as the mine deepens, improves operational efficiencies, and provides the opportunity to increase the amount of equipment and personnel working on each shift underground."

The ventilation system involves the installation of a new 125 HP main exhaust fan, located in the northwest outside area of the mine, and three auxiliary fans located in the operational levels of the mine. The installation work is expected to continue over the next two weeks.





Figure 1. Fans Arrive on Site at Farellon



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/4303/90345_d16622d584701a91_001full.jpg





Figure 2. Preparation Work for the Fan Installation



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/4303/90345_d16622d584701a91_002full.jpg

Figure 3. Preparation Work for the Fan Installation

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/4303/90345_d16622d584701a91_003full.jpg

About Altiplano

Altiplano Metals Inc. (TSXV: APN) is a Canadian mining company focused on the acquisition and development of near-term cash flowing assets and exploration projects of significant scale. Altiplano's goal is to grow into a mid-tier producer of copper, gold and silver with immediate plans of generating profits from three cash flowing projects in 2021. Management has a substantial record of success in capitalizing on opportunity, overcoming challenges and building shareholder value.

John Williamson, B.Sc., P.Geol., a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical contents of this document.



Altiplano is part of the Metals Group of companies, managed by an award-winning team of professionals who stand for technical excellence, painstaking project selection and uncompromising corporate governance, with a proven ability to capitalize on investment opportunities and deliver shareholder returns.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

/s/ "John Williamson"

Chairman

For further information, please contact:

Alastair McIntyre, CEO

alastairm@apnmetals.com

Tel: (416) 434 3799

Jeremy Yaseniuk, Director

jeremyy@apnmetals.com

Tel: (604) 773-1467

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the (TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address exploration drilling, exploitation activities and events or developments that the Company expects are forward-looking statements. A qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify any historical estimates as current mineral resources or mineral reserves and the issuer is not treating the historical estimates as current mineral resources or mineral reserves. The Farellon mine was previously in production dating back to the 1970's with a reported historical production (to a depth of 70 m) yielding approximately 300,000 tonnes at an average grade of 2.5% copper and 0.5g/t gold. This material was processed locally and sold to ENAMI. Altiplano is relying upon past production records, underground sampling and related activities and current diamond drilling to estimate grade and widths of the mineralization to reactivate production. The decision to commence production on the Farellon deposit is not based on a feasibility study of mineral reserves demonstrating economic and technical viability and there is increased uncertainty and economic and technical risks of failure associated with any production decision. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, exploitation and exploration successes, continuity of mineralization, uncertainties related to the ability to obtain necessary permits, licenses and title and delays due to third party opposition, changes in government policies regarding mining and natural resource exploration and exploitation, and continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For more information on the Company, investors should review the Company's continuous disclosure filings that are available at www.sedar.com.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90345


WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Stage is set for German Chancellor Angela Merkel's meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden in White House on Thursday in what is considered as her final trip to Washington before leaving power.



After 16 years in office, Germany's iron lady prepares to step down following parliamentary elections in September.



During her multiple terms, Merkel has worked with four U.S. presidents.



Described as an Official Working Visit, the White House said it will 'affirm the deep and enduring bilateral ties between the United States and Germany.'



Merkel starts the day with a breakfast hosted by Vice President Kamala Harris at her residence.



Biden and Merkel will meet one-on-one in the Oval Office at 2 PM. It will be followed by an expanded bilateral meeting. The leaders will discuss the full range of issues, including countering the threat of climate change, ending the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing security and regional challenges, and shoring up democracy around the world, among other topics, according to the White House.



After the meeting, Biden and Merkel will address a joint press conference.



The President and the First Lady will host Merkel and her husband Prof. Joachim Sauer for dinner at the State Dining Room. The Vice President and the Second Gentleman also will attend the dinner, among others.



Merkel's last White House bilateral gains significance in the context of improving U.S.-German relationship that was weakened during President Donald Trump's aggressive approach towards her.



Biden is expected to raise his 'long-standing concerns' over the Nord Stream 2 pipeline project, which transports natural gas from Russia directly to Germany, reports say.



Merkel is also expected to press Biden to open US air travel routes to the European Union, which last month decided to allow Americans to travel to its 27 member nations.



Mrekel is the first European head of government to meet Biden in Washington since he took office.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

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INFICON Holding AG (SIX Swiss Exchange: IFCN) looks forward to welcoming you to the Media/Analyst Conference on INFICON's second quarter and half-year 2021 results. INFICON will host a Web Conference via Microsoft Teams on Thursday, July 29, 2021 at 09.30 a.m. CEST. The presentations and the following question and answer session will be in English. You may join the presentation using the following links

http://bit.ly/IFCN_WebConference

https://ir.inficon.com/conference-calls-or-webcasts/

Please make sure that you have access to Microsoft Teams. During the Web Conference, participants will first be in a listen-only mode. After the prepared remarks, Management will take questions via the voice or chat functionalities provided. The Web Conference will be recorded and later archived in the investors' section of the INFICON website.

On July 29, 2021, INFICON will issue a press release at 07:00 a.m. CEST on the second quarter and first-half year 2021 results. At the same time, the accompanying presentation visuals and the full half-year report will also be available for download in the Investors' section of the INFICON website, www.inficon.com.

Communication Calendar

The communication calendar of INFICON is continuously updated and available on online in the Investors' section of the INFICON website, www.inficon.com.

E-Mail Alerts

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Regulatory News:

AKKA Technologies (Paris:AKA) (BSE:AKA) (ISIN:FR0004180537), a European leader in engineering consultancy and R&D services, is proud to announce that it has been selected by Nouvelle Aquitaine Mobilites to support it in the development and deployment of an integrated MaaS (Mobility As A Service) service, to facilitate travel within the Nouvelle Aquitaine Region (France).

Nouvelle-Aquitaine Mobilites, a joint association whose mission is to coordinate, facilitate and shape sustainable mobility on its 40 transport networks and 84,061 km of territory, has embarked on an ambitious project aimed at simplifying access to the mobility, offering uniform pricing and proposing new services through the development of integrated MaaS-type mobility.

To meet this objective, AKKA is enlisting the skills of its teams at the Data Expertise Centre in Niort, in partnership with OKINA, a mobility expert, to integrate all data sources (transport timetables, stops, car parks, parking areas, car pooling, bicycles, etc.).

AKKA will use its integrated Big Data platform to manage and administer all the data, which will also enable the development of new services, such as: the integration of theoretical transport data (timetables), real-time data (delays, availability of parking spaces, etc.), operating data (linked to the quality of service) and ticketing data, in order to set up a regional mobility monitoring system.

The launch and consolidation of the project is scheduled for this summer and will last until the end of 2022. The maintenance phase will continue for additional four years.

Denis Grandjean, Data Intelligence Director BU France, comments: "We are very pleased to have been selected by Nouvelle Aquitaine Mobilites to develop a real mobility Data Hub with data gathered from such a vast territory as the Nouvelle Aquitaine region. AKKA and OKINA are offering the Nouvelle Aquitaine Mobilites our business and data expertise and common approach based on Open Source technologies, in order to offer sustainable mobility solutions, to ensure cohesion between territories and people and to envision tomorrow's travel".

NOTE FOR EDITORS:

What is the AKKA Big Data platform?

AKKA's Big Data Platform is an integrated platform, available immediately. It manages the entire data processing chain and allows to massively collect heterogeneous data. It provides great flexibility in data visualisation and exploration, in restitution, in addition to natively integrating machine learning tools. It can therefore be used to present first concrete results very quickly. Entirely based on open-source components, the AKKA big data platform includes several functions such as:

high-volume data collection and storage (including archiving);

data analysis;

data transformation (ETL function);

development of predictive models;

development of real-time and batch applications;

data exposure via web services and databases;

data visualisation using interactive dashboards;

deployment of applications within the platform itself or to other types of environments.

ABOUT AKKA

AKKA is a European leader in engineering consulting and R&D services. Our comprehensive portfolio of digital solutions combined with our expertise in engineering, uniquely positions us to support our clients by leveraging the power of connected data to accelerate innovation and drive the future of smart industry. AKKA accompanies leading industry players across a wide range of sectors throughout the life cycle of their products with cutting edge digital technologies (AI, ADAS, IoT, Big Data, robotics, embedded computing, machine learning, etc.) to help them rethink their products and business processes. Founded in 1984, AKKA has a strong entrepreneurial culture and a wide global footprint. Our 21,000 employees around the world are all passionate about technology and share the AKKA values of respect, courage and ambition. The Group recorded revenues of 1.5 billion in 2020. AKKA Technologies (AKA) is listed on Euronext Paris and Brussels segment B ISIN code: FR0004180537.

For more information, please visit: https://www.akka-technologies.com/

Follow us on: https://twitter.com/AKKA_Tech

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005793/en/

Contacts:

Stephanie Bia

Group Communications Investor Relations Director

Tel: +33(0)6 47 85 98 78

stephanie.bia@akka.eu

Media Relations France

Alexandra Paleologue

Director Communications France

Tel: +33(0)6 03 33 10 48

alexandra.paleologue@akka.eu
PUBLICIS GROUPE TO ACQUIRE CITRUSAD TO LEAD THE NEW GENERATION OF IDENTITY-LED RETAIL MEDIA





Link to the Press release





PUBLICIS GROUPE TO ACQUIRE CITRUSAD

TO LEAD THE NEW GENERATION OF

IDENTITY-LED RETAIL MEDIA

CitrusAd is a SaaS platform optimizing brands marketing performance

directly within retailer websites

By combining CitrusAd with Epsilon's CORE ID, Publicis Groupe will create the industry's first global retail media offering based on real identity



Paris - July 15, 2021 - Publicis Groupe [Euronext Paris FR0000130577, CAC 40] today announces the acquisition of CitrusAd, a software as a service (SaaS) platform optimizing brands marketing performances directly within retailer websites. With more than 50% of its activities in the U.S., CitrusAd is present across 22 countries and 6 industries. CitrusAd provides its world-class technology to more than 70 major retailers globally and over 4,000 brands are utilizing their self-served platform.

In 2023, ecommerce sales for CPG brands will have doubled versus 2019 levels. In this context, retail media is undergoing exponential growth. From c. $30bn annually already, it is set to double in the next 5 years, and will represen t one of the biggest channels of CPG media spends in the next few year.

CitrusAd's onsite expertise complemented with Epsilon's offsite retail media offering, both powered by the CORE ID, uniquely positions Publicis Groupe to lead the new generation of identity-led retail media, with transparent measurement validated by transactions.

This will provide Publicis Groupe clients with three decisive competitive advantages in e-commerce:

Growth: Clients will be able to accelerate their growth in this dynamic channel, by increasing conversion rate and maximizing return on ad spends. CitrusAd's conversion rates are among the highest across the entire media industry with 60% conversion after a click.

Customer understanding: Brands will access superior customer understanding based on first-party data from retailers, equipping them for a cookieless world. Complementing CitrusAd with Epsilon's capabilities, Publicis will be able to deliver best in class identity resolution, with no dependency on third-party cookies, for optimized activation. All of this delivered in a totally consent-by-design and privacy-compliant way.

Consolidated measurement: Brands will be able to reach their customers both onsite (in retailer ecosystems) and offsite (in publisher ecosystems) and measure in real-time the consolidated performance of their media investments, whatever the channel of conversions: in-store or online. All of this at SKU level and validated directly by transactions.

CitrusAd is an Australian-based company founded in 2017 by Brad Moran and Nick Paech and gathers 130 engineers and retail media experts around the world. The company will act as a standalone business within Epsilon, being closely integrated into their technology to achieve market leading synergies. The transaction remains subject to customary approvals and is expected to close in the next weeks.

Brad Moran, Co-Founder and CEO of CitrusAd said: "It's not every day you find a partner the size of Publicis Groupe that not only shares the same vision and entrepreneurial spirit as CitrusAd but who can apply their advertising prowess and muscle to a technology company like ours. Retailers and brands are entering uncharted territory as retail media grows and having Publicis supporting CitrusAd in its efforts, I know that our customers will reap the benefit of a century's worth of media expertise combined with high quality technology and a team of retail media experts".

Arthur Sadoun, CEO and Chairman of Publicis Groupe said :"We are delighted to welcome Brad, Nick and the CitrusAd team to Publicis. The leading technology they have developed, coupled with Epsilon's CORE ID will enable CPG brands to grow faster and retailers to generate new sources of revenue to win in a platform world. It will also give to Publicis a strong competitive advantage in a channel that by 2025 should surpass traditional TV spend"

About Publicis Groupe - The Power of One

Publicis Groupe [Euronext Paris FR0000130577, CAC 40] is a global leader in communication. The Groupe is positioned at every step of the value chain, from consulting to execution, combining marketing transformation and digital business transformation. Publicis Groupe is a privileged partner in its clients' transformation to enhance personalization at scale. The Groupe relies on ten expertise concentrated within four main activities: Communication, Media, Data and Technology. Through a unified and fluid organization, its clients have a facilitated access to all its expertise in every market. Present in over 100 countries, Publicis Groupe employs around 80,000 professionals.

www.publicisgroupe.com | Twitter:@PublicisGroupe | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Viva la Difference!

About CitrusAd

CitrusAd is the world-leading, white-label, self-serve, ecommerce ad-serving platform that enables retailers to monetize their digital shelf-space while enabling brands to increase sales by launching targeted and cost-effective digital campaigns into retailer websites. Since it was launched in 2017, CitrusAd powers the fastest growing ecommerce ad network in the USA and has become the global, retail industry's preferred ad-serving platform, service and retail media sales organization. Successful retailers, in all verticals across 25 countries are leveraging the CitrusAd platform and real-time relevancy engine to create a more personalized shopping experience and deliver greater ROI for suppliers. For more information, visit https://www . citrusad .com





Contacts Delphine Stricker

Alessandra Girolami Corporate Communications

Investor Relations + 33 (0)6 38 81 40 00

+ 33 (0)1 44 43 77 88 delphine.stricker@publicisgroupe.com

alessandra.girolami@publicisgroupe.com Brice Paris Investor Relations + 33 (0)1 44 43 79 26 brice.paris@publicisgroupe.com




Wavestone informs its shareholders that its 2020/21 universal registration document, relating to fiscal year ending March 31, 2021 was recorded by the AMF on July 15, 2021 under the number D.21-0702.

This document (French version) is made available according to legal requirements and can be consulted on the Wavestone website (www.wavestone.com, Investors section) and on the AMF web site (www.amf-france.org). The English version of this document will be published shortly.

The 2020/21 universal registration document notably contains:

2020/21 annual financial report;

the report on corporate governance;

the remuneration of corporate officers' report;

the draft resolutions submitted to the Annual General Meeting (July 27, 2021);

the different Auditors' reports;

description of the share buy-back program;

the table of Auditors' fees.

In accordance with the French "Grenelle 2" legislation, a summary of the social, environmental and societal aspects of the company's activities is also included.

About Wavestone

In a world where knowing how to drive transformation is the key to success, Wavestone's mission is to inform and guide large companies and organizations in their most critical transformations, with the ambition of a positive outcome for all stakeholders. That's what we call "The Positive Way."

Wavestone draws on some 3,000 employees across 8 countries. It is a leading independent player in the European consulting market.

Wavestone is listed on Euronext Paris.

Wavestone

Pascal IMBERT

Chief Executive Officer

Tel.: +33 (0)1 49 03 20 00

Benjamin CLEMENT

Financial communication

Tel.: +33 (0)1 49 03 20 00 Actus

Financial news

Mathieu OMNES

Analyst & investor relations

Tel.: +33 (0)1 53 67 36 92

Nicolas BOUCHEZ

Press relations

Tel.: +33 (0)1 53 67 36 74

------------------------

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Full and original release in PDF format:https://www.actusnews.com/documents_communiques/ACTUS-0-70248-cp-mise-a-disposition-urd_150721_en-w5cg7372qsd1117.pdf
Regulatory News:

The Combined General Meeting of Tikehau Capital (Paris:TKO) was held today under the chairmanship of Mr. Christian de Labriffe, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, and was broadcast live on the Company's website where a replay will also be available.

The quorum was 92.89% and all resolutions proposed by the Manager relative to the simplification of the Group's organisation, as announced on 20 May 20211, were adopted with an approval rate close to 100%.

In particular, the General Meeting approved the following resolutions:

Significant reduction in the preferred dividend and appointment of a new General Partner;

Merger of Tikehau Capital General Partner into Tikehau Capital;

Partial contribution of assets granted by Tikehau Capital Advisors to Tikehau Capital, allowing the transfer of the Group's central corporate functions to Tikehau Capital;

Capital increase of Tikehau Capital in consideration of the merger and the contribution;

Appointment of two new Managers and adoption, in accordance with the say-on-pay approach, of a new remuneration policy applicable to the Managers with a significantly reduced quantum compared to the previous policy.

All conditions precedent having been satisfied, the operational reorganisation announced by Tikehau Capital in its press release dated 20 May 2021 is effective as of today. Following the completion of the reorganisation, the number of shares and voting rights of Tikehau Capital now stands at 175,318,3442

The reorganisation, retroactive to 1 January 2021, results in a materially improved financial profile for Tikehau Capital and allows for a revised dividend policy to increase value for shareholders.

Important information

The detailed voting results of the General Meeting held today will be published on the Company's website at: www.tikehaucapital.com (section: Shareholders GM Combined General Meeting 15 July 2021).

The documents relating to the merger and contribution operations announced by the Company in its press release dated 20 May 2021 (and, in particular, the exemption document waiving the obligation to publish a prospectus prepared in connection with the merger and contribution operations) may be consulted and downloaded from the Company's website (www.tikehaucapital.com, section Shareholders GM Combined General Meeting 15 July 2021).

Upcoming release

29 July 2021 (after market close): Assets under management at 30 June 2021

About Tikehau Capital

Tikehau Capital is a global alternative asset management group with 29.4 billion of assets under management (as of 31 March 2021). Tikehau Capital has developed a wide range of expertise across four asset classes (private debt, real assets, private equity and capital markets strategies) as well as multi-asset and special opportunities strategies.

Tikehau Capital is a founder led team with a differentiated business model, a strong balance sheet, proprietary global deal flow and a track record of backing high quality companies and executives.

Deeply rooted in the real economy, Tikehau Capital provides bespoke and innovative alternative financing solutions to companies it invests in and seeks to create long-term value for its investors, while generating positive impacts on society. Leveraging its strong equity base (2.8 billion of shareholders' equity as of 31 December 2020), the firm invests its own capital alongside its investor-clients within each of its strategies.

Controlled by its managers alongside leading institutional partners, Tikehau Capital is guided by a strong entrepreneurial spirit and DNA, shared by its 607 employees (as of 31 March 2021) across its 12 offices in Europe, Asia and North America. Tikehau Capital is listed in compartment A of the regulated Euronext Paris market (ISIN code: FR0013230612; Ticker: TKO.FP).

For more information, please visit: www.tikehaucapital.com

Disclaimer:

This document does not constitute an offer of securities for sale or investment advisory services. It contains general information only and is not intended to provide general or specific investment advice. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future earnings and profit, and targets are not guaranteed.

Certain statements and forecasted data are based on current forecasts, prevailing market and economic conditions, estimates, projections and opinions of Tikehau Capital and/or its affiliates. Due to various risks and uncertainties. actual results may differ materially from those reflected or expected in such forward-looking statements or in any of the case studies or forecasts. All references to Tikehau Capital's advisory activities in the US or with respect to US persons relate to Tikehau Capital North America.

_________________________

1 See press release dated 20 May 2021.

2 The number of shares and voting rights before the reorganisation stood at 136,318,344.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005843/en/

Contacts:

Press Contacts:

Tikehau Capital: Valerie Sueur +33 1 40 06 39 30

Image 7: Florence Coupry Juliette Mouraret +33 1 53 70 74 70

press@tikehaucapital.com

Shareholder and Investor Contact:

Louis Igonet +33 1 40 06 11 11

shareholders@tikehaucapital.com
Highly complementary acquisition, transforming Santander's Corporate Investment Banking structuring and distribution capabilities in fixed income capital markets and securitized products.

Banco Santander today announced that Santander Holdings USA, the bank's US holding company, has reached an agreement to acquire Amherst Pierpont Securities, a market-leading independent fixed-income broker dealer, through the acquisition of its parent holding company, Pierpont Capital Holdings LLC, for a total consideration of approximately $600 million (c.500 million). Amherst Pierpont will become part of Santander Corporate Investment Banking (Santander CIB) global business line.

Amherst Pierpont is a leading independent broker-dealer based in the US, with a premier fixed-income and structured product franchise. It was designated a primary dealer of U.S. Treasuries by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York in 2019 and is currently one of only three non-banks to hold that designation. Amherst Pierpont has approximately 230 employees serving more than 1,300 active institutional clients from its headquarters in New York and offices in Chicago, San Francisco, Austin, other US locations and Hong Kong.

Completion of the acquisition significantly enhances Santander CIB's infrastructure and capabilities in market making of US fixed income capital markets, provides a platform for self-clearing of fixed income securities for the group globally, grows its institutional client footprint, and expands its structuring and advisory capabilities for asset originators in the real estate and specialty finance markets. The combined platform will also have strong capabilities in corporate debt and securities finance across the US and emerging markets. The acquisition creates a comprehensive suite of fixed income and debt products and services that will drive deeper and more valuable relationships across its respective client bases.

Ana Botin, Santander Group executive chairman, said: "This acquisition is consistent with our customer focused strategy and our commitment to profitable growth in the USA. It complements our product offerings and capabilities, allowing us to strengthen our relationships with our corporate and institutional clients. The Amherst Pierpont team bring a successful track record and experience in delivering value for their clients. We look forward to incorporating their many strengths into our very successful and growing CIB organization."

Joe Walsh, Amherst Pierpont chief executive officer, said: "Santander Group is one of the world's most respected financial institutions and an ideal partner for our growing franchise. With Santander's global reach we will be able to significantly expand our product offering, grow our client base and increase the level of service we can provide to our clients. We are pleased to achieve this important milestone for our platform and look forward to working with the Santander CIB team to deliver the full potential of this combination."

Amherst Pierpont has generated attractive returns, with an average return on equity (RoE) of c.15% since 2016. In 2020 it generated a RoE of 28% and an estimated return on risk weighted assets of 3%.

The acquisition of Amherst Pierpont is expected to be c.1% accretive to group earnings per share and generate a return on invested capital of c.11% by year 3 (post-synergies), with a -9 basis point impact on group capital at closing. As of 31 March 2021, the group's CET1 capital ratio was above its target range of 11-12%.

The transaction is expected to close by the end of the first quarter of 2022, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.

Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen Katz and WilmerHale served as legal advisors to Santander in connection with the transaction. Barclays served as financial advisor to Amherst Pierpont, and Shearman Sterling as legal advisor.

Analyst call

A presentation to analysts regarding the acquisition will take place today, Thursday 15 July 2021, through a conference call at 19.00 CEST/13.00 ET.

To follow the presentation, please register using the following link: https://cossprereg.btci.com/prereg/key.process?key=PC4UAWJNM

Once registered, the telephone number for the conference call and passcode will be provided.

The document to be used at the presentation to analysts will be made public shortly via its notification to the CNMV and publication on Santander's corporate website www.santander.com.

Banco Santander (SAN SM, STD US, BNC LN) is a leading retail and commercial bank, founded in 1857 and headquartered in Spain. It has a meaningful presence in 10 core markets in the Europe, North America and South America regions, and is one of the largest banks in the world by market capitalization. Its purpose is to help people and businesses prosper in a simple, personal and fair way. Santander is building a more responsible bank and has made a number of commitments to support this objective, including raising over 120 billion in green financing between 2019 and 2025, as well as financially empowering more than 10 million people over the same period. At the end of the first quarter of 2021, Banco Santander had 1.1 trillion in total funds, 149 million customers, of which 23.4 million are loyal and 44.2 million are digital, 10,800 branches and 190,000 employees.

Santander Holdings USA, Inc. (SHUSA) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Madrid-based Banco Santander, S.A. As the intermediate holding company for Santander's US businesses, SHUSA is the parent organization of five financial companies with more than 15,000 employees, 5 million customers, and $150 billion in assets as of December 2020. These include Santander Bank, N.A., Santander Consumer USA Holdings Inc. (NYSE: SC), Banco Santander International, Santander Securities LLC, Santander Investment Securities Inc., and several other subsidiaries. Santander US is recognized as a top 10 auto lender, a top 10 multifamily lender, and a top 20 commercial real estate lender, and has a growing wealth management business with more than $50 billion in assets under management.

Santander Corporate Investment Banking (Santander CIB) is Santander's global division that supports corporate and institutional clients, offering tailored services and value-added wholesale products suited to their complexity and sophistication, as well as to responsible banking standards that contribute to the progress of society.

Amherst Pierpont is a market-leading independent broker dealer providing institutional and middle-market clients with access to a premier fixed-income capital markets franchise. Our experienced team of professionals delivers actionable trade ideas and customized solutions to our institutional client base. Much of the value-added service we provide is driven by our state-of-the-art data and analytics platform and our focus on market strategy, both of which are designed to identify relative value and quantify risk reward in the fixed income markets. Amherst Pierpont is headquartered in New York City with offices across the United States. Amherst Pierpont is a self-clearing member of the Fixed Income Clearing Corporation and also a member of FINRA and SIPC. For further information about Amherst Pierpont, see https://apsec.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005870/en/

Contacts:

Media contacts

For Banco Santander:

+34 91 289 5211

comunicacion@gruposantander.com



For Santander US:

+1 214 801 6455

MediaRelations@santander.us



For Amherst Pierpont:

Tom Johnson Dan Scorpio

+1 212 371 5999

tbj@abmac.com dps@abmac.com
ATLANTA, GA / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / Atlanta-based Internal Audit and Security Services firm Rausch Advisory Services LLC. ("Rausch") announces the opening of their San Francisco office.

Organizations that have been adaptive to change are starting to experience an economic rebound and even thrive in a post-COVID-19 economy. In this ever-changing, uncertain economic environment, there is a greater need for experienced internal audit, information security, and accounting and finance resources prepared to roll up their sleeves and assist in this recovery process. The demand for innovative business advisory services and professional placement services is at an all-time high. Rausch has been deploying resources across the country, primarily from the Atlanta office, until now.

"Rausch is excited to officially announce the expansion of a West Coast office. Establishing a local presence in California will allow Rausch to strategically serve clients nationally, bring reduced rate structures and experienced resources efficiently to the market. Many clients have expressed their enthusiasm about this latest announcement," said Rausch's President & CEO Michael Lisenby in a statement.

"It's exciting to see that Rausch has now expanded to the West Coast. Rausch has been a great partner in helping us to find exceptionally qualified Internal Auditors. Rausch has provided a compelling service offering with the right blend of experience and affordable rates. I look forward to meeting the new team in California," stated Sean Dyer, Division Vice President - Head of Internal Audit for Panasonic Avionics Corp.

Rausch Advisory Services serves clients in the areas of Finance & Accounting, Internal Audit, Information Security, and Professional Placement. Rausch delivers innovative solutions that address compliance, enterprise risk, information technology, and human resource capital. Rausch delivers globally through project lead solutions, co-sourcing, staff augmentation, professional placement services, and customized technology deployment.

For further information, email Deborah Nail in media relations at information@rauschadvisory.com or visit www.rauschadvisory.com.

Follow Rausch on social media: LinkedIn - Facebook - Twitter

Rausch Advisory Services LLC - San Francisco

1390 Market Street, Suite 200,

San Francisco, CA 94102

415-965-6776

Rausch Advisory Services LLC - Corporate

5825 Glenridge Drive Building 1-212

Atlanta, GA 30328

404-775-1151

Related Images

SOURCE: Rausch Advisory Services LLC

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655703/Rausch-Advisory-Services-LLC-Opens-West-Coast-Office
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Crude oil prices declined sharply on Thursday, sending the most active crude futures contracts to their lowest close in nearly a month, amid rising concerns about outlook for energy demand and likely excess supply in the market. Worries about demand have resurfaced due to the spread of the Delta variant of the coronavirus and possibility of fresh economic restrictions in several places across the world. There are concerns that a compromise deal between leading OPEC producers could result in a sharp increase in oil supply into an extremely tight market. West Texas Intermediate Crude oil futures for August ended down by $1.48 or about 2% at $71.65 a barrel, the lowest settlement since June 18. Brent crude futures were down $1.45 or nearly 2% at $73.31 a barrel a little while ago. A Reuters report said Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates had reached a compromise on production levels. Meanwhile, the UAE energy minister said in a statement on Wednesday that an agreement with OPEC+ regarding its position on an extension of an oil supply deal has not been reached yet, and that deliberations and consultations are going on. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
ORLANDO, FL / ACCESSWIRE / July 15, 2021 / The 2021 Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show and co-located Healthy Food Expo Florida will be held live September 19-20 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. This will be the first time the events will be held in person since 2019. This show will bring together thousands of chefs, industry leaders, owners and operators from the restaurant and foodservice industry ready to get back to business, and to network and conduct business with 350 exhibiting companies. The reinvented trade show and conference will offer five new Educational Summits with content focused specifically on the needs of Independent Restaurateurs, Small to Mid-Sized Chains, Retail, Contract Foodservice, and Technology as well as an expansive show floor, awards presentations, education sessions, and cooking demonstrations with celebrity chefs. The event is owned by Clarion Events Food & Beverage Group and sponsored by the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association.

"We are thrilled to be bringing the industry together in a safe and welcoming way this September in Orlando. We have missed our annual gathering and have put together a redesigned event to provide the foodservice industry in the Southeast an opportunity to source new food and beverage, technology and equipment products, learn from dozens of industry experts and network with their peers," said Rita Ugianskis, Vice President for the Clarion UX Food & Beverage Group. "Whether you're an independent owner, quick-serve restaurant operator, chef, caterer, baker, bar or nightclub operator, hospital, hotel or commercial foodservice personnel we invite you to register and join us in September."

Each of the Education Summits will take place in theaters directly on the show floor and focus on menu development, marketing and social media, employees and staffing, bar and beverage, hot topics, technological advances, operational excellence and efficiency, finance/leasing/development and more. The entire program is offered at no charge to registered restaurant and foodservice professionals. For more information, visithttps://www.flrestaurantandlodgingshow.com/education-tracks.

Session topics include What Chain Leaders Forget - Lessons Learned on my Journey from Chain Executive to Independent Operator (Independent Summit); How to Include Affordable Plant-Based Proteins, Dairy Alternative and Nutritious Snacks (Foodservice Summit); How Technology Better Enables Communicating with Your Guest (Technology Summit); Creating Change: Seven Essentials for Teams Facing Challenge (Small to Mid-Sized Chains Summit). For access to all 60+ sessions and workshops, click here.

Back by popular demand Center Stage will be featured on the show floor with Culinary Demonstrations, the Torch and Beacon Award Presentations, as well as Rapid Fire and Hip Sip Competitions with local chefs and bartenders and other panel discussions. The exhibit hall will offer the American Culinary Federation Culinary Competitions, Food Trends Experience, Bar Innovation Pavilion, TechBytes, Coffee Fest Marketplace and the Healthy Foods Expo and new products and innovations from 350 exhibiting companies. The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show MATCH! Program will connect exhibitors with the most relevant buyers. The appointment program delivers measurable ROI in the form of prescheduled appointments with qualified buyers who have purchasing authority and spend.

Registration is now open for the 2021 Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show to be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL on Sunday, September 19 from 10 am - 5 pm and Monday, September 20 from 10 am - 4 pm. The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show and Healthy Food Expo are produced and managed by Clarion Events, and sponsored by the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association. For more information, visithttps://www.flrestaurantandlodgingshow.com/.

EventEd supports trade associations, event organizers, media, suppliers, and operators with its unique understanding of the industries they serve. They are grounded in the foodservice market and deliver subject-matter expertise through relationships and partnerships with leaders in the industry. The company leadership has their fingers on the pulse of what is happening in global hospitality, foodservice, and retail industries and provides seminars, virtual content, webinars, research and peer-to-peer networking and educational opportunities. For more information, email info@evented.io

Clarion Events produces 37 events across 13 sectors of both trade and consumer events. The Food & Beverage Group includes the International Restaurant & Foodservice Show of New York, The Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo, the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show, Healthy Food Expo, CoffeeFest and The NGA Show. Clarion Events, backed by The Blackstone Group, has become one of the fastest growing event companies in the U.S. with aggressive growth through both acquisition and launch. Clarion acquired PennWell in early 2018, bringing 4 Tradeshow 200 events into the U.S. portfolio and super-charging the already rapid growth. Clarion Events has offices in Trumbull, CT; Kennesaw, GA; Boca Raton, FL; Tacoma, WA, and Fairlawn, NJ.

# # #

For further information, contact:

Amy Riemer, Media Relations

978-475-4441 (office) or 978-502-4895 (cell)

amy@riemercommunications.com

SOURCE: Restaurant & Foodservice Show

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/655755/Thousands-of-Restaurant-and-Foodservice-Professionals-to-Gather-in-Orlando-September-19-20-for-The-Florida-Restaurant-Lodging-Show-and-Healthy-Food-Expo-Florida
MOUNTAIN VIEW (dpa-AFX) - Software giant Microsoft Corp. (MSFT) said on Thursday that an Israeli group had sold a tool, which could hack into Microsoft Windows quite easily. Microsoft brought this information to light in association with technology human rights group Citizen Lab, thus bringing the spotlight on the emerging business of finding and selling tools to hack the widely used software. A Citizen Lab report states that the hacking tool vendor called Candiru created and sold a software exploit, which could easily penetrate Windows and create unparallel damage. Technical analysis by security researchers have details about how Candiru's hacking tool has been widely used to target various civil society organizations, like a Saudi dissident group and a left-leaning Indonesian news outlet. According to data present with Microsoft, the Candiru hacking tool was used against customers in different countries like Iran, Lebanon, Spain and the United Kingdom. 'Candiru's growing presence, and the use of its surveillance technology against global civil society, is a potent reminder that the mercenary spyware industry contains many players and is prone to widespread abuse,' Citizen Lab said in its report. On Tuesday, Microsoft fixed the hacking problems through a software update. The company did not directly attribute the hacking issues to Candiru, instead referring to it as an 'Israel-based private sector offensive actor' under the codename Sourgum. The company said, 'Sourgum generally sells cyberweapons that enable its customers, often government agencies around the world, to hack into their targets' computers, phones, network infrastructure, and internet-connected devices.' On Wednesday, Google (GOOGL) also revealed that it had found two Chrome software flaws connected to Candiru. The company also did not refer to Candiru by name, but described it as a 'commercial surveillance company.' Google had fixed the two flaws earlier this year. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.


SEATTLE (dpa-AFX) - Dutch Teenager Oliver Daemen is set to become the first teenager to go to space when he will board the Blue Origin flight with Jeff Bezos, his brother Mark Bezos and Wally Funk on July 20. Wally Funk will also become the oldest person to achieve the feat at the age of 82.



Daemen is also going to be the first paying customer after the company announced that instead of the winner of the auction who agreed to pay $28 million, he will get to join Bezos and co. The company has not revealed the price of Daemen's ticket.



Daemen took a year off from his studies after completing high school to obtain his private pilot's license. Oliver is the son of millionaire Josh Daemen, who is the founder and CEO of Somerset Capital Partners in the Netherlands. Oliver is set to join the University of Utrecht in September.



CEO of Blue Origin Bob Smith said, 'We thank the auction winner for their generous support of Club for the Future and are honored to welcome Oliver to fly with us on New Shepard. This marks the beginning of commercial operations for New Shepard, and Oliver represents a new generation of people who will help us build a road to space.'



On the other hand, Wally Funk, a flight instructor, and former pilot was one of the members of Mercury 13, who passed all the physiological tests in the 1960s but failed to fly.



Until now, the record for the youngest person in space was held by Germon Titov at 25, while the oldest person to go to space was John Glenn at 77.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de
Founded in 1919, Halliburton is one of the world's largest providers of products and services to the energy industry. With approximately 40,000 employees, representing 130 nationalities in more than 70 countries, the company helps its customers maximize value throughout the lifecycle of the reservoir from locating hydrocarbons and managing geological data, to drilling and formation evaluation, well construction and completion, and optimizing production throughout the life of the asset. Visit the company's website at www.halliburton.com. Connect with Halliburton on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
SAN FRANCISCO, July 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Meltwater, a global leader in media intelligence, is proud to announce that it is the recipient of two Comparably Awards for "Best Career Growth" and "Best CEOs for Women."



Meltwater ranks number #20 for "Best Career Growth" alongside companies such as Zoom, Peloton and Hubspot, based on data compiled from 10 million employee ratings across 60,000 U.S. companies. The award takes into account employee ratings and testimonials on their professional development opportunities at Meltwater. In addition, Meltwater CEO John Box ranked # 32 for Comparably's "Best CEOs for Women" which represents the top-ranked CEOs, as rated by female employees.

Since its founding in 2001, Meltwater has made employee growth and development a key focus across the company by promoting employees from within, developing a best-in-class sales training program, and investing in learning and development across the business. Many of Meltwater's senior leaders, including CEO John Box, are testaments to the company's focus on career growth, having joined in entry-level roles and risen through the ranks to leadership. Employee testimonials and online reviews regularly cite personal and professional development, mentorship and training from senior leaders, and opportunities for rapid career progression as the ways that Meltwater invests in employee development.

Supporting female employees is also a particular focus for Meltwater, especially in a year where women have been disproportionately affected by the effects of the pandemic on the workforce. Meltwater has continued its focus on developing female leaders, promoting work-life balance and creating an equitable and inclusive work environment.

Globally, women make up 50% of Meltwater's workforce and represent 38% of leadership, numbers that are well above the average among tech companies. CEO John Box and the Meltwater executive team are committed to continuing to make strides to increase diversity, equity and inclusion at all levels of the business. Meltwater also won the Comparably "Best Companies for Women" award in Q4 2020 and ranked in the top 15% of companies in the US, in terms of female employees' experience at an organization across multiple dimensions.

John Box, CEO of Meltwater, said: "We're thrilled to be named one of the Best Companies for Career Growth, as recognized by our incredible employees around the world. At Meltwater, our goal is to give our employees the tools they need to grow, develop and feel fulfilled by their work. In the past year, we've reaffirmed our commitment to creating a workplace where all employees can fully contribute to the company's success. Ensuring that we have gender diversity in all levels of the business will make our culture, products and business better, and I appreciate that our employees recognize our continued efforts in this area."

Comparably Awards are based on sentiment ratings anonymously provided by employees about their workplaces in multiple categories on Comparably.com during a 12-month period. Rankings were determined based on a combination of questions in 20 core culture metrics, from compensation and career growth to leadership and work-life balance-providing a comprehensive look at what it's really like to work at Meltwater.

Meltwater was also named a "Best Company for Happiness" and "Best Company for Global Culture" by Comparably in the past year. The team is actively recruiting in a variety of exciting roles around the world to continue to grow and expand the team. To learn more about the open opportunities, please visit the Meltwater careers website, or visit our Comparably page here.

About Meltwater

Meltwater was founded in 2001 as the world's first online media monitoring company. Today, we are a global leader in media intelligence and social analytics, helping to bridge the gap between Public Relations, Communications and Marketing departments with an intuitive, all-in-one solution powered by AI-driven insights. Over 30,000 of the world's most respected brands rely on Meltwater to help inform their strategic decision-making, and with over 55 offices across six continents, Meltwater is a truly global partner. We are also proud to support the Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST), a pan-African entrepreneurial program & incubator, fostering the next generation of African tech talent. Learn more at meltwater.com.

About Comparably

Comparably is a leading workplace culture and compensation monitoring site that provides the most comprehensive and accurate representation of what it's like to work at companies. Employees can anonymously rate their employers in 20 different workplace culture categories, providing the public a transparent and in-depth look at the experiences workers have based on their gender, ethnicity, age, department, experience, location, education, and company size. Since launching in 2016, Comparably has accumulated 10 million ratings across 60,000 U.S. companies. The platform has become one of the fastest-growing SaaS solutions for employer branding and trusted third-party site for workplace and salary data, including its annual Best Places to Work series.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 15, 2021) - Wealth Minerals Ltd. (TSXV: WML) (OTCQB: WMLLF) (SSE: WMLCL) (FSE: EJZN) (the "Company" or "Wealth"), reports, pursuant to its news releases dated June 21, 2021, May 25, 2021 and June 11, 2021, that they have closed a third tranche of the Placement. On July 14, 2021, the Company issued an additional 2,250,000 units for gross proceeds of $675,000.00. Each unit consists of one common share of the Company (a "Share") at $0.30 and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each whole Warrant entitles the holder to acquire one additional share of the Company for a period of two years from the date of issuance at a price of $0.45 per share.

No finder's fees were paid pursuant to this tranche close.

All securities issued in the Placement are subject to a four-month hold period, during which time the securities may not be traded.

The Company anticipates closing additional tranche(s) pursuant to the financing and has requested an extension for final closing to July 30, 2021.

The net proceeds from the Offering are intended for general corporate purposes.

This press release does not constitute an offer of sale of any of the foregoing securities in the United States. None of the foregoing securities have been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act") or any applicable state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons (as defined in Regulation S under the 1933 Act) or persons in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor will there be any sale of the foregoing securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

About Wealth Minerals Ltd.

Wealth is a mineral resource company with interests in Canada, Mexico and Chile. The Company's main focus is the acquisition and development of lithium projects in South America. To date, the Company has positioned itself to work alongside existing producers in the prolific Atacama salar, where the Company has a substantial licenses package.

Lithium market dynamics and a rapidly increasing metal price are the result of profound structural issues with the industry meeting anticipated future demand. Wealth is positioning itself to be a major beneficiary of this future mismatch of supply and demand. The Company also maintains and continues to evaluate a portfolio of precious and base metal exploration-stage projects.

For further details on the Company readers are referred to the Company's website (www.wealthminerals.com) and its Canadian regulatory filings on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of

WEALTH MINERALS LTD.

"Hendrik van Alphen"

Hendrik van Alphen

Chief Executive Officer

For further information, please contact:

Marla Ritchie

Phone: 604-331-0096 Ext. 3886 or 604-638-3886

E-mail: info@wealthminerals.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities legislation, including the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, anticipated exploration program results from exploration activities, the Company's expectation that it will be able to enter into agreements to acquire interests in additional mineral properties, the discovery and delineation of mineral deposits/resources/reserves, the closing and amount of the Placement, and the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "estimate", "postulate" and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Company are not guarantees of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, operating and technical difficulties in connection with mineral exploration and development activities, actual results of exploration activities, the estimation or realization of mineral reserves and mineral resources, the timing and amount of estimated future production, the costs of production, capital expenditures, the costs and timing of the development of new deposits, requirements for additional capital, future prices of lithium, changes in general economic conditions, changes in the financial markets and in the demand and market price for commodities, lack of investor interest in the Placement, accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry, delays in obtaining governmental approvals, permits or financing or in the completion of development or construction activities, changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting mining operations, title disputes, the inability of the Company to obtain any necessary permits, consents, approvals or authorizations, including acceptance by the TSX-V, required for the Placement, the timing and possible outcome of any pending litigation, environmental issues and liabilities, and risks related to joint venture operations, and other risks and uncertainties disclosed in the Company's latest interim Management Discussion and Analysis and filed with certain securities commissions in Canada. All of the Company's Canadian public disclosure filings may be accessed via www.sedar.com and readers are urged to review these materials, including the technical reports filed with respect to the Company's mineral properties.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements in this news release or incorporated by reference herein, except as otherwise required by law.

**NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES**



To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/90409
Rio Tinto Chief Executive Jakob Stausholm, said: "The global economy, in particular China, recovered strongly and we are intensely focused on servicing our customers with as much product as we can. However, we faced some challenges in the first half notably at our Pilbara operations, which were impacted by replacement mine tie-ins and materially higher rainfall. Heightened COVID-19 constraints, which resulted in numerous travel restrictions, added further pressure on the business and limited our ability to access additional people, particularly in Western Australia and Mongolia, in order to deliver operational improvements or maintenance initiatives and accelerate projects.

"Safety is our first priority and our performance in this area remains robust in challenging conditions. However, as identified shortly after my appointment, operationally we are not where we want to be. Our first half performance has reaffirmed my belief that we have identified the right priorities to strengthen the business: to become the best operator, strive for impeccable ESG credentials, excel in development and secure a strong social licence. We have made initial progress against our priorities, but a large volume of work remains to make Rio Tinto even stronger, so we can continue to deliver superior returns to shareholders, invest in sustaining and growing our portfolio, and make a broader contribution to society."

Production* Quarter 2

2021 vs Q2

2020 vs Q1

2021 H1

2021 vs HY

2020 Pilbara iron ore shipments (100% basis) (Mt) 76.3 -12% -2% 154.1 -3% Pilbara iron ore production (100% basis) (Mt) 75.9 -9% -1% 152.3 -5% Bauxite (Mt) 13.7 -6% +1% 27.3 -4% Aluminium (kt) 816 +4% +2% 1,619 +3% Mined copper (kt) 115.5 -13% -4% 236.1 -11% Titanium dioxide slag (kt) 298 +14% +7% 577 +4% IOC iron ore pellets concentrate (Mt) 2.7 -2% +16% 5.1 -5% *Rio Tinto share unless otherwise stated

Q2 Operational update

Our colleague Nico Swart was tragically killed in a shooting incident whilst driving to work at Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) in South Africa on 24 May. Our sympathies are with Nico's family and we are offering ongoing support to his family, friends and colleagues.

We continue to prioritise the safety of our people and communities as some regions experience a resurgence of COVID-19. We have exceeded 30 months without a fatality on site but our all injury frequency rate (AIFR) of 0.39 has seen a slight increase versus the second quarter of 2020 (0.37), and prior quarter (0.35), which underlines that there is no room for complacency.

We expect iron ore shipments to be at the low end of the guidance range which remains subject to COVID-19 disruptions, tie-in and ramp up of brownfield replacement mines and management of cultural heritage. Mined copper and bauxite production is expected to be at the low end of the guidance range. Full year titanium dioxide slag production guidance has been removed as a result of risks around the timing of resumption of operations at RBM in South Africa, due to an escalation in the security situation. We are working with the local and federal governments and police to ensure we can safely resume operations.

Pilbara iron ore production of 75.9 million tonnes (100% basis) was 9% lower than the second quarter of 2020 due to above average rainfall in the West Pilbara, shutdowns to enable replacement mines to be tied in, processing plant availability, and cultural heritage management. Shipments of 76.3 million tonnes (100% basis) were 12% lower than the second quarter of 2020 with some additional drawdown of inventories. Ongoing COVID-19 restrictions and a tight labour market have further impacted our ability to access experienced contractors and particular skill sets.

Bauxite production of 13.7 million tonnes was 6% lower than the second quarter of 2020 due to ongoing system instability following severe wet weather in Eastern Australia in the first quarter.

Aluminium production of 0.8 million tonnes was 4% higher than the second quarter of 2020, underpinned by the ISAL smelter in Iceland and the Becancour smelter in Quebec operating at full capacity, and the Kitimat smelter in British Columbia nearing completion of its pot relining cycle.

Mined copper production of 115.5 thousand tonnes was 13% lower than the second quarter of 2020, with lower recoveries and throughput at Escondida as a result of the prolonged impact of COVID-19, and a planned relocation of the in-pit crusher at Kennecott in April. On 31 May, an anticipated slope failure occurred in the south east wall of the Bingham Canyon pit at Kennecott. There were no injuries or damage to equipment as the slide was accurately predicted by our geotechnical experts. Mining in the affected area restarted progressively in June. No ore has been sterilised and we expect to recover the material from the slide which is largely copper bearing ore. Mining rates will however be slower due to the size distribution of the material, and therefore some high-grade production scheduled for late 2021 will be deferred to 2022.

Titanium dioxide slag production of 298 thousand tonnes was 14% higher than the second quarter of 2020 due to consistent production at the Fer et Titane (RTFT) metallurgical complex in Quebec. Following weeks of violent disruptions, our RBM operations have been significantly hampered. As a result, we have declared force majeure, with all operations curtailed.

Production of pellets and concentrate at Iron Ore Company of Canada (IOC) was 2% lower than the second quarter of 2020 due to labour and equipment availability issues impacting product feed. Force majeure declared in April following the fire at the port has been lifted.

On 17 June, Peter Cunningham was appointed as Chief Financial Officer with immediate effect. Peter also joined the Rio Tinto Board as an executive director at the same time. On 7 July, we announced the appointment of Isabelle Deschamps who will join on 25 October as Chief Legal Officer External Affairs, succeeding Barbara Levi.

On 4 June, we announced the appointment of Ben Wyatt as a non-executive director of the Rio Tinto Board. Mr Wyatt, an Australian citizen, and former Treasurer and Aboriginal Affairs Minister in the Western Australian Government, will join the Board on 1 September 2021.

In the second quarter, we entered into four partnerships to progress our work to decarbonise our value chain. These include one with the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) to study whether hydrogen can replace natural gas in alumina refineries to reduce emissions, and one with POSCO to jointly explore, develop and demonstrate technologies to transition to a low-carbon emission steel value chain.

The full second quarter production results are available here.

This announcement is authorised for release to the market by Steve Allen, Rio Tinto's Group Company Secretary.

LEI: 213800YOEO5OQ72G2R82

Classification: 3.1 Additional regulated information required to be disclosed under the laws of a Member State

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715006088/en/

Contacts:

Contacts

Please direct all enquiries to media.enquiries@riotinto.com



Media Relations, UK

Illtud Harri

M +44 7920 503 600



David Outhwaite

M +44 7787 597 493



Media Relations, Americas

Matthew Klar

T +1 514 608 4429



Media Relations, Australia

Jonathan Rose

M +61 447 028 913



Matt Chambers

M +61 433 525 739



Jesse Riseborough

M +61 436 653 412



Investor Relations, UK

Menno Sanderse

M: +44 7825 195 178



David Ovington

M +44 7920 010 978



Clare Peever

M +44 7788 967 877



Investor Relations, Australia

Natalie Worley

M +61 409 210 462



Amar Jambaa

M +61 472 865 948



Rio Tinto plc

6 St James's Square

London SW1Y 4AD

United Kingdom

T +44 20 7781 2000

Registered in England

No. 719885



Rio Tinto Limited

Level 7, 360 Collins Street

Melbourne 3000

Australia

T +61 3 9283 3333

Registered in Australia

ABN 96 004 458 404

riotinto.com



Category: General
Cohley, a NYC-based provider of a content marketing platform, raised $5m in funding.

The round was co-led by Right Side Capital and Active Capital with participation from Bridge Bank.

Led by Tom Logan, co-founder and CEO, Cohley provides a platform for brands and agencies to generate, test and measure content. Launched in 2016, the company now has more than 250 customers, including Unilever, Bumble, Shutterfly, Adore Me and Keeps. The content, which ranges from videos to branded professional photography, can be incorporated into a variety of mediums, including but not limited to digital ads, email marketing campaigns and social channels.

The company will use the funds to continue building out its integration suite with strategic partners like Attentive, Yotpo, Klaviyo and AdRoll. These integrations will further enable clients to utilize and test assets throughout their digital marketing stacks. Headquartered in New York City, Cohley also plans to increase its headcount by year-end and open offices in Atlanta and Salt Lake City.

FinSMEs

15/07/2021
Cybereason, a Boston, MA-based operation-centric cyber attack protection company, secured $275m in crossover financing.

The round led by Liberty Strategic Capital, with participation from Irving Investors, certain funds advised by Neuberger Berman Investment Advisers LLC, and Softbank Vision Fund 2. In connection with Libertys investment in Cybereason, Secretary Mnuchin will join the Cybereason Board of Directors, and Libertys Senior Advisor, General Joseph F. Dunford (Ret.), will join Cybereasons Advisory Board.



The company intends to use the funds to continue to accelerate the growth driven by demand for its AI-powered platform.

Led by Lior Div, CEO and co-founder, Cybereason provides a future-ready attack protection platform that unifies security from the endpoint, to the enterprise, to everywhere the battle moves. The Cybereason Defense Platform combines detection and response (EDR and XDR), next-gen antivirus (NGAV), and proactive threat hunting to deliver context-rich analysis of every element of a Malop (malicious operation). In this way, defenders can end cyber attacks from endpoints to everywhere.

The company serves customers across 40 countries.

FinSMEs

15/07/2021
GHGSat, a Montreal, Canada-based provider of solutions for high resolution greenhouse gas monitoring from space, completed the second tranche of a funding round initiated in 2020, thereby closing its total Series B funding at US$45m.

The second tranche of Series B funding was supported by the Government of Quebec through Investissement Quebec, OGCI Climate Investments and Space Capital.

The company, which has raised more than US$70m since its inception in 2011, intends to use the funds to expand its GHG emission detection array to 10 satellites and 3 aircraft sensors by 2023, as well as to expand its international commercial presence, particularly in Europe and the US.

Led by Stephane Germain, CEO, GHGSat is a leader in high-resolution greenhouse gas monitoring from space, providing actionable emission data to businesses, governments, and regulators worldwide. With proprietary remote-sensing capabilities and patented technology, the company can monitor individual facilities, offering data accuracy, and facilitating timely strategic decision-making insights.

Since September 2020, GHGSat has deployed two satellites into orbit, including Hugo, launched in January 2021 with SpaceX Transporter 1 rideshare. The data collected by these satellites are now being used by industrial site operators, governments, and regulators with whom GHGSat partners to understand their carbon footprint and take the necessary measures to reduce it. In June, the company also launched SPECTRA, an emissions data management portal designed to monitor, analyze, and report emissions information. The tool incorporates GHGSats high-resolution data with client information to provide operators with a complete view of emission risks. The company has also developed PULSE, a map of global methane concentrations.

FinSMEs

15/07/2021
Proper, a San Francisco, CA-based automated accounting and bookkeeping service for property managers, raised $9m in Series A funding.

The round, which brought the total amount raised to $13.8m, was led by QED, with participation from existing investors MetaProp, Expa, and Bling Capital, In conjunction with the funding, Matt Risley, partner at QED, joined Propers board.

Led by Mark Rojas, founder and CEO, Proper provides property managers and asset managers with an automated accounting & bookkeeping service, which includes accounts payable, bank reconciliations, accounts receivable, and owner payments and statements.

The company intends to use the funds to investment to accelerate the development of its automated accounting technology, build a new customer-facing platform, and hire strategic talent across all functions. Throughout 2020, the team grew from 15 employees to 92, and in the first half of 2021 has already increased to 120, with plans to end the year with around 200 team members. Hiring priorities include leadership for Operations, Sales, Marketing, HR, and Recruiting.

FinSMEs

15/07/2021
Revolut, a London, UK-based provider of financial app and platform, raised $800m in Series E funding round, which valued the business at $33 billion.

Backers included new investors SoftBank Vision Fund 2 and Tiger Global Management.

The company intends to use the funds for:

ongoing product innovation aimed at meeting customers everyday financial needs, such as global transfers, management of savings and insurance, and trading,

expansion of its offering to US customers, and

entry to India and other international markets.

Led by Nikolay Storonsky, Founder & CEO, Revolut provides a global financial app for people and businesses. In 2015, Revolut launched in the UK offering money transfer and exchange. Today, more than 16 million customers around the world use dozens of its innovative products to make more than 150 million transactions a month.

In June, the company released its Annual Report for the year ending 31 December 2020, revealing a adjusted revenue up by 57% year on year, to 261m by the year end (2019: 166m), an increase of 95m. Gross profits increased by 215% from 39m in 2019 to 123m in 2020. Gross margin improved by 24 % from 25% in 2019 to 49% in 2020.

This combination of revenue growth and improved gross margins reduced quarterly adjusted operating losses by 90%, from 55m in Q1 2020 to 6m in Q4 2020, reflecting the strengthening of core business activities. Full year adjusted operating loss increased to 122m (2019: 98m).

The international expansion continued with the launch of services in the US, Australia and Japan.

FinSMEs

15/07/2021
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Many parents already have gotten their first deposit from the expanded child tax credit created by Congress for one year only.

It is a key feature of the American Rescue Plan Act, but the Internal Revenue Service still has not fully implemented an online portal for making adjustments.

The child tax credit update portal will allow you to opt out of the payments if you don't want to receive them, said Brad Martin, volunteer tax assistance program coordinator with the United Way of Southwest Alabama. And it will allow you to add bank account information if you want direct deposit and youre currently getting checks. It is not yet set up to allow you to add or change dependent information. We are told that will happen late in the summer.

For one year only, the child tax credit will rise from $2,000 per child to $3,000 per child ages 6 through 17 and $3,600 per child younger than 6. This months payment is the first of six through the end of the year $250 for older kids and $300 for younger ones. Parents can claim the other half of the money when they file tax returns next year.

Most parents are eligible for the money, although the benefit begins to phase out for single parents earning $75,000 a year and married couples making $150,000.

According to the White House, more than 500,000 Alabama families will get a total of more than $234 million.

President Joe Biden has proposed extending the expanded credit to 2025, while some progressive Democrats want to make it permanent.

In addition to having to wait until later in the summer to claim babies born this year, parents also cannot yet register changes to their marital status or re-enroll if they previously had opted out.

For those who want to get all of the money in a lump sum when they file their tax returns next year, it is too late to opt out of the July payments.

Youve missed the window for July, said Martin, who helps low-income folks file tax returns Any changes that need to be made have to be made three days before the first Thursday of the month.

But Martin said people should not be too concerned if they are missing out on money they should be getting. He said the IRS has promised catch-up payments in later months.

The money payments could amount to substantial sums of money.

If you have four kids and, lets just say that two of them are under age 5, youre looking at roughly $1,100 a month, Martin said.

Thats money, Martin said, that could be especially important to people who suffered financial setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The pandemics been hard on a lot of people, and a lot of people are still having to back-pay a lot of things that they had to let slide, he said.
MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) -- Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson went to the White House on Wednesday to meet with President Biden to discuss infrastructure needs.

Stimpson was among a group of bipartisan governors and mayors meeting with the President and Vice President Harris.

The mayor said the meeting lasted about an hour and 15 minutes. Stimpson said he didn't get to talk about specific projects, like the I-10 bridge over the Mobile River, but he said the President knows there is a need.

"He does definitely understand that there are projects of regional significance that have national importance. He definitely understands that, so I don't know how they will score these projects. I know that there are a lot of people at the table and they will have their guns loaded and all their data to prove why they should be the recipient of it," Stimpson said.

FOX10 News asked Stimpson why he was among the mayors and governors picked to go to Washington. He said he believes he was chosen because members of his administration have contact with the Biden administration and they talk every week.

The mayor stopped short of saying he approves of the President's infrastructure bill, but said he will relay what happened in the meeting to the local Congress members.

"This meeting was more about the president explaining to us why this bill was important to him, the country, to everybody and he wanted some people out in the cities and the states to be able to amplify what he was saying," said Stimpson.
MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) -- A Mobile police officer was arrested Wednesday on charges of domestic violence.

Daniel Marlin, 36, was booked into Metro Jail by the Mobile County Sheriff's Office on one count of domestic violence strangulation or suffocation, and interference with a domestic violence emergency call.

The Mobile Police Department on Thursday morning said Marlin has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation.

Marlin was arrested the same day his wife asked a court to bar him from getting near her or contacting her. The woman accused Martin of abuse, citing instances when he allegedly threatened and injured her on three separate days since May.

Marlin joined MPD in March 2016 and was named Officer of the Month in August 2018.

In September 2019, Officer Marlin broke his leg in a wreck on Dauphin Island Parkway while on duty.
Kingston Osmanthus Eric Buterbaugh: White as a Wedding Gown

Fragrance Reviews

Eric Buterbaugh is a company known in Los Angeles primarily as a boutique of flower bouquets for special occasions and Hollywood stars. But as often happens with florists, love for the beauty of flowers often develops into the creation of floral fragrances - there are many examples: the French brand Christian Tortu, the American company Antonias Flowers by Antonia Bellanca, and the Australian brand Grandiflora by Saskia Havekes.

Eric Buterbaugh, born in Oklahoma, belongs to the same list. He has loved fragrances since as far back as his childhood years and cherishes his great perfume collection. So creating his own perfume brand was only a matter of time, and it happened after Eric met Fabrice Croise, the former manager of L'Oreal.

They started in 2015 with the launch of a collection of seven floral fragrances EB Florals, created by Firmenich perfumers - jasmine, hyacinth, violet, lily of the valley, and, of course, roses. Especially roses - so beautiful and often devoid of fragrance, leading to their scent being reconstructed for the sake of olfactory pleasure. Plus a few scented candles and stuffed roosters scented with lemon and jasmine (yes!)

The following year, their efforts were noticed by Puig, which supported the brand by purchasing a small block of shares, and in 2018 became the main shareholder. This allowed expanding the line of fragrances (for example, five fragrances from the Flower Oud collection for the Gulf market) and the distribution channels - in addition to the main boutique in Los Angeles, the fragrance appeared in Saks and Le Bon Marche.

Nevertheless, the brand is still quite a rare bird. I was able to smell only one of the fragrances, Kingston Osmanthus, released in 2016. The aroma of these exotic flowers, which have a legendary status in Asia, seemed to florist Eric Buterbaugh very perfume-like and interesting, and perfumer Alberto Morillas decided to use it surrounded by other flowers, as in a bouquet.

Kingston Osmanthus could have been a very sweet fruity scent with a warm leather base, as is usually the case with osmanthus perfumes. However, in this composition, the apricot tone of osmanthus has been ennobled with white powdery notes of orris, which literally follow the peach beginning and desugar it. In addition, a neutral and cold musky-woody accord supports the powdery orris, carrying a snow-white wedding trail. And so the sweet fruity notes of osmanthus and jasmine seem to be lost in a cloud of sparkling white dust. Some lily of the valley and rose notes support the warm sparkling effect.

There is not the smallest drop of anything animalic, dirty, or earthy in the scent - it is absolutely pure, immaculate snow-white in color, literally milk and snow, with juicy, warm July peaches in the snow. This fruity-powdery combination also reminds me of the scent of blossoming mallow.

The fragrance is quite close in its mood to L'Iris de Fath Jacques Fath - apricot, orris, musk - but Kingston Osmanthus seems much more detached and prim, albeit magnificent, like an inaccessible beautiful queen in a shining white dress, or the Swan Princess, while L'Iris de Fath simply captivates and charms everyone around with its warm, spontaneous smile, like a young bride.

Kingston Osmanthus Eric Buterbaugh is available in 100 ml and 250 ml Eau de Parfum, priced between USD 210 and 395, on the brand's website (unfortunately not available now - maybe due to high demands) and at select points of sale. A 6 x 4 ml sample set costs USD 40, and I, for one, would like to get to know this brand more thoroughly.

Kingston Osmanthus Eric Buterbaugh Los Angeles

Top notes: Violet leaves and Jasmine;

Middle notes: White Osmanthus, Orange Blossom, and Rose;

Base notes: Musk, Sandalwood, Clearwood, Woody notes, and Iris.
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Galveston, TX (77553)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms. High around 90F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms this evening becoming more widespread overnight. Low 77F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 80%.
Galveston, TX (77553)

Today

Variable clouds with scattered thunderstorms. High around 90F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms during the evening becoming more widespread overnight. Low 77F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 80%.
Newsbrief: Discord has bought up Sentropy, a software developer that creates artificial intelligence-driven tools designed to combat online harassment.

In a Medium post from Sentropy CEO John Redgrave, the company founder writes that hes been impressed by Discords deep commitment to safety, and that the company will continue to be focused on fighting hate and abuse on the internet.

Our teams focus will be on helping Discord expand and evolve its [Trust and Safety] capabilities, he writes. We are also inspired by Discords commitment to knowledge-sharing and capability-building in the content moderation space, as exemplified by their Moderator Academy.

Redgrave writes that the companys Detect and Defend products offered to other companies will remain online until September 30th, 2021. Its Protect product was shut off on July 1st in advance of this acquisition.

Discord spent the first part of 2021 flirting with the notion of itself being acquired by a company by Microsoft. Now it seems it will be the one doing the acquiring.
Goff was not present, at the request of the board. However, she released a statement following the meeting saying she's grateful for the people who have worked with her for the past two years.

"When I began as GAPS superintendent in July 2019, it was with a Board who sought an equity leader who could guide the district through strategic planning where all voices were heard," she wrote.

"I believe our new Board has expressed a commitment to the priorities shaped by your voice," she went on. "I look forward to seeing the progress in equity and inclusion, in student and staff emotional and mental health, and in academic rigor and relevance."

Members of the previous board added a year to Goffs contract and raised her salary at a June 7 meeting. Morse, Nyquist and Wilson, who took office on July 1, have not publicly discussed their issues with Goff, nor did they discuss why they made the motion to terminate the contract. Thomson expressed concerns about the silence of his fellow board members during deliberations.

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A multiuse path, completed last fall to direct pedestrians and cyclists away from the crowded road and sidewalks, was named after cyclist Eric Austin, who who was struck and killed in 2018 just a stones throw north of where the politicians gathered on Wednesday.

These tragedies were fresh on the minds of the policymakers and they said the incidents highlight why safety improvements are necessary throughout the country, especially in communities such as Corvallis that have developed around busy highways.

One of the main important things we have to do, really as a country, is recognize that thats not inevitable. Its not a natural, built-in cost of transportation, Buttigieg said. Its actually something we could act on and work towards zero traffic fatalities. And you can see that vision in the work that the mayor is describing, work thats been done just feet from where were standing.

Some of that work includes pedestrian crosswalks with center islands in the road, so a pedestrian or cyclist only has to watch for oncoming traffic on one side at a time. There have also been flashing yellow lights installed to alert traffic to crossing pedestrians. Radar speed signs track oncoming vehicles and help enforce the 25 mph speed limit along that stretch of the four-lane highway.
We couldnt do ceremonies because of the fire and our hunting grounds, we could not hunt there, said Hockaday of last year's fire. About 40 square miles of our original territory is closed to us right now.

Members of the Klamath Tribes in Chiloquin, Oregon, are concerned the Bootleg Fire will affect their ancestral territory as well.

There is definitely extensive damage to the forest where we have our treaty rights. I am sure we have lost a number of deer in the fire, said Don Gentry, chairman of the Klamath Tribal Council in Chiloquin.

Gentry said although the active fire was 25 miles from the tribes administrative headquarters, the council declared a state of emergency Wednesday because of its erratic behavior and rapid growth.

With the severity of the fire, were really concerned about where the fire might go from here, so we have a lot of concern about the future, he said Wednesday.

The Klamath Tribes have been affected by wildfires before, including one that burned 23 square miles in Southern Oregon last September. That fire damaged land where many of Klamath tribal members hunt, fish and gather. The fire also burned the tribes cemetery and at least one tribal members house.
Government

top story

County board appointment process, transparency questioned

Douglas Wilde Lokrantz Rich Bostwick Dan Lassiter Josh Smith

JANESVILLE

A Wisconsin government watchdog claims the Rock County Board of Supervisors administration might be violating the state open meetings law regarding pending appointments of new supervisors. The administration contends the actions are lawful.

In late May, District 11 Supervisor Kaelyb Lokrantz resigned after moving from the city and town of Beloit district. In mid-June, District 23 Supervisor Doug Wilde resigned, citing conflicts with his career while serving. The resignations prompted the county to begin a search for replacement candidates.

County Board Chairman Richard Bostwick has the authority to make appointments and fill vacant supervisor seats, with Rock County Corporation Counsel Richard Greenlee contending that how Bostwick chooses to make appointments is not subject to the Wisconsin open meetings law, even after the chairman opted to involve other members of the county board to participate in the selection process and interviews of potential board appointees.

Tom Kamenick, president and founder of the Wisconsin Transparency Project, said the boards leadership is attempting to delegate responsibilities to a committee that does not hold open public meetings.

Governmental bodies cannot create other bodies to help them perform their work without those secondary bodies also being open to the public. Operating this way is putting the county at serious risk of substantial legal liability, Kamenick said.

In response, Greenlee said the county is committed to transparency but claimed that the selection process was not subject to open meetings law requirements because under state law, self-organized county boards may determine the procedure for filling a vacancy.

County board policy states that vacancies during the term of any supervisor shall be filled by the County Board Chair with confirmation by the county board.

There are no other provisions of the constitution, statute, ordinance or board rules which deal with appointments for vacancies, and there is no provision that delegates any authority to a group of supervisors to exercise that appointment authority, Greenlee said.

Greenlee added that Bostwick does not have authority to order any supervisor to assist in the selection process and that those chosen by Bostwick to assist in the replacement effort cannot have power to compel Bostwick to agree with any potential determination or candidate selection.

Supervisors who have been offered the chance to participate in candidate interviews may provide feedback to the chair in whatever manner the chair deems valuable. Nevertheless, the decision on who to appoint is solely vested in the board chair, Greenlee said.

Two people have applied for the District 11 vacancyJanelle Crary and Matt Finnegan. Crary was appointed by the board at last weeks regular board meeting, according to Rock County Administrator Josh Smith.

For the District 23 vacancy, Rock County residents John Burt, Tricia Clasen, Patric Garvin, Craig Gramke, Michael Sheridan and Mary Jo Villa have applied. The person appointed to represent District 23 will serve the unexpired term until the April 2022 election.

County board rules stipulate that vacancies must be filled within 60 working days of the day a resignation occurs.

That is as much information as I have for you on the timeline at this point, Smith said.

Smith said theres no set date at which the next appointment could be made but noted that the next two upcoming board meetings will be held Aug. 12 and Sept. 9. As in the past, the second county board meeting of the month for July and August are not typically held, Smith added.
CAMPBELL, Calif., July 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RICOH360 Tours, a service of RICOH Company Ltd, the only truly complete and affordable 360 virtual tour solution under one global brand, today announced the launch of the AI Virtual Staging feature.



AI Virtual Staging will be available to all users as a beta. This new feature automatically arranges virtual furniture on 360 images in vacant rooms using Artificial Intelligence. In addition, a new pricing plan will be launched on July 15th, 2021.

The need to introduce remote selling using virtual tours allows you to reach the largest pool of potential buyers. Your viewers will experience a realistic tour of properties they are interested in and when they contact you, they are probably very interested in your listed property. The simple and convenient operation of RICOH360 Tours has been well received by many customers, with the number of registered users exceeding 30,000.

 New Feature: AI Virtual Staging Beta

Virtual furniture and accessories are automatically arranged by AI on 360 images in vacant rooms to make the space more attractive. Visitors will be able to visualize themselves living in the home, so it aids in selling your property faster. Furthermore, RICOH's AI technology enables virtual staging of properties with furniture within 10 - 60 minutes.

The free plan allows you to virtual stage up to ten 360 images per lifetime, the pro plan allows you to virtual stage up to 20 images per month, and the business plan allows you to virtual stage up to 100 images per month. RICOH360 Tours users can use this function at no additional charge. RICOH360 Tours virtual staging reduces the time, cost and effort required to stage a home. AI virtual staging will be offered to users as a beta version, and improvements will be made in preparation for the official release.

 A sample AI virtual staging can be found here.





A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/da3e06a6-04a4-454e-a962-8cc75082b7d6





 New pricing plans

New pricing plans are now available: Pro plan and Business plan. Customers who sign up for an annual subscription will receive a discount of approximately 15%, starting at $39/month (for an annual paid subscription), which is lower than the previous plan. Now, additional team members can be added not only for the Business plan, but also for the Pro plan.

The previous plan (Entry and Standard plans) will no longer be available for new customers. Existing paid users can continue to use the previous plans, but they can also switch to the new plans if they choose.

 Click here for new pricing plans.





About RICOH360 Tours

RICOH360 Tours is the official virtual tour platform for RICOH THETA, launched in July 2020. It has been supporting sales and marketing operations in real estate & other industries as a cloud service that allows anyone from anywhere to virtually view "Spaces" online without having to visit the site.

With a RICOH THETA and a PC/smartphone, anyone can easily create and publish a virtual tour. There is no limit to the number of virtual tours you can publish, the number of images you can insert in a tour. Agents may add property and contact information to the virtual tour so it can be utilized in various ways, such as shared via e-mails or SNS, embed to a webpage or can be shown through web conferencing systems. With the virtual tour form function, Call to Action (CTA), you can set up a form in the virtual tour that asks for your visitors contact information before they can view the entire tour.

Furthermore, customers can use "AI image enhancement, AI Video Maker and AI Virtual staging beta", which use Ricoh's original AI technology, and are available for all plans, making it easy to create attractive content.

For more information, please contact us from below.

About AI Virtual Staging beta

https://www.ricoh360.com/tours/features/virtual-staging/

About RICOH360 Tours

https://www.ricoh360.com/tours/

About Ricoh Data Service Business

Ricoh is the leader in the development of high-quality immersive 360 cameras and platforms for prosumers and professionals to easily capture and share 360 views of physical spaces from a mobile app in minutes. Ricoh creates intuitive solutions that require no professional, technical or photography experience to create immersive digitized photo-realistic views of a physical environment. For more information, please visit here.

Contact:

Vishwanath Rajappa

Product Manager

vish@ricoh360.com

Ph: +1 650.391.8010




Dublin, July 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "North America Express Delivery Market Forecast to 2027 - COVID-19 Impact and Regional Analysis By Destination, Business Type, and End-user" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



Domestic Market to Dominate the Market

North America Express Delivery Market is expected to reach US$ 94,936.66 million by 2027 from US$ 66,508.22 million in 2020. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.2% from 2020 to 2027.

The report provides trends prevailing in the North America Express Delivery Market along with the drivers and restraints pertaining to the market growth. Growing adoption of e-commerce among the population, raising investments by companies on same-day delivery of consumer goods and integrated use of technology in express delivery operations are the major factor driving the growth of the express delivery market. However, heavy cost associated with express delivery hinder the growth of express delivery market.



Favorable government policies to boost innovation and reinforce infrastructure capabilities, North America have the highest acceptance and development rate of emerging technologies. Any impact on industries is therefore projected to have a negative influence on the region's economic development.

Currently, due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the US is the world's worst affected country, thus affecting the sudden stands still across all the industries present in the region. Millions of Americans sit at home in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis thereby reducing the rate of online shopping and their demand for express delivery of the purchased item across the region.

However, the healthcare industry has been utilizing the services of the express delivery companies even during the outbreak of the pandemic. But the share of services utilized by other industries stands more when compared to the healthcare sector, thereby, impacting the market negatively. However, the companies across the region are taking necessary steps to reduce the impact of losses incurred during the pandemic.



North America express deliver market is segmented based on destination, business type, and end users. Based on destination, the North America express delivery is segmented into domestic and international. The domestic segment accounted for the highest share in the market in 2019 and international segment is expected to be fastest growing during forecast period. Based on business type, is segmented into B2B and B2C.

The B2B segment accounted for the highest share in 2019 and B2C sector is expected to be the fastest growing during forecast period. Based on end-user, the market is segmented into automotive, retail and e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, BFSI, IT and telecom, electronics, and thers. The automotive segment accounted for the highest share in 2019 and retail and automotive sector is expected to be the fastest growing during forecast period.



Amazon.com, Inc.; Aramex; DHL International GmbH; FedEx Corporation; TNT Holdings B.V.; and United Parcel Service of America, Inc. are among some of the leading companies in the North America express deliver market.

The market players focus on new product innovations and developments in order to achieve sustainable growth and to distinguish themselves among competitors present in the highly competitive express delivery market.

For instance, Amazon.com, Inc. keeps buying jets to move closer to a 30-minute delivery dream. As last week, Amazon announced it was buying 11 Boeing 767-300 jets for its air-cargo division, mostly to get products to prime subscribers.

Key Topics Covered:



1. Introduction

1.1 Study Scope

1.2 Report Guidance

1.3 Market Segmentation



2. Key Takeaways



3. Research Methodology



4. North America Express Delivery - Market Landscape

4.1 Market Overview

4.2 PEST Analysis

4.3 Ecosystem Analysis

4.4 Expert Opinion



5. North America Express Delivery Market - Key Market Dynamics

5.1 Market Drivers

5.1.1 Growing Adoption of E-Commerce Among Worldwide Population

5.1.2 Raising Investments by Companies on Same-Day Delivery of Consumer Goods

5.2 Market Restraints

5.2.1 High Price Associated with Express Delivery

5.3 Market Opportunities

5.3.1 Integrated use of Technology in Express Delivery Operations

5.4 Future Trends

5.4.1 Improved Adoption of Express Delivery to Offer Better Customer Experience

5.5 Impact Analysis of Drivers and Restraints



6. North America Express Delivery - Market Analysis

6.1 Express Delivery Market Overview

6.2 North America: Express Delivery Market - Revenue and Forecast to 2027 (US$ Million)



7. North America Express Delivery Market Analysis - By Destination

7.1 Overview

7.2 Express Delivery Market, by Destination (2019 and 2027)

7.3 Domestic

7.4 International



8. North America Express Delivery Market Analysis - By Business Type

8.1 Overview

8.2 North America Express Delivery Market, by Business Type (2019 and 2027)

8.3 Business-to-Business

8.4 Business-to-Consumer



9. North America Express Delivery Market Analysis - By End-User

9.1 Overview

9.2 Express Delivery Market, by End-User (2019 and 2027)

9.3 BFSI

9.4 Automotive

9.5 Pharmaceuticals

9.6 IT and Telecom

9.7 Electronics

9.8 Retail and Ecommerce



10. North America Express Delivery Market - Country Analysis

10.1 Overview North America: Express Delivery Market

10.1.1 North America: Express Delivery Market, By Country



11. Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on North America Express Delivery Market

11.1 North America: Impact Assessment of COVID-19 Pandemic

11.2 Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic in North American Country Markets



12. Industry Landscape

12.1 Overview

12.2 Market Initiative

12.3 New Product Development

12.4 Merger and Acquisition



13. Company Profiles

Amazon.com, Inc.

Aramex

DHL International GmbH

FedEx Corporation

TNT Holdings B.V.

United Parcel Service of America, Inc.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/z6m18i
ST. JOHNS, Newfoundland and Labrador, July 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kraken Robotics Inc. (TSX-V: PNG, OTCQB: KRKNF), Canadas Ocean Company, is pleased to announce several positive updates relating to the Companys SeaVision laser scanner developments and growth in its Robotics as a Service (RaaS) offering. Krakens SeaVision 3D laser scanner technology will be used in the Companys RaaS offering focused on three primary markets: mooring chain inspections, ship hull inspection, and offshore wind farm inspection. After several years of development and numerous trials and technology demos, Kraken expects to ramp significant RaaS revenue from SeaVision laser inspection contracts. Notable updates are as follows:

1) Kraken recently signed a contract with a major international energy company to provide detailed underwater inspection of the customers subsea assets. Under the contract, Krakens SeaVision 3D laser scanner will be used to conduct underwater inspection of an umbilical termination assembly to acquire metrology data on tubing within the internal structure. The work will be performed in Q4 of this year in a West African country. The customers name and the contract amount cannot be disclosed due to confidentiality reasons. 2) Kraken recently completed extensive trials on Krakens SeaVision based Mooring Chain Inspection Tool (MCIT) (see Figures 1 and 2 below for sample results). Combining the award winning SeaVision technology with Kraken developed state-of-the-art deep learning object detection and 3D form matching technology, SeaVision MCIT will enable a time efficient and contactless inspection. Kraken recently finished test runs in a tank facility using six links of a fully documented and analysed mooring chain. The trials objectively showed that Krakens MCIT software system can track and measure diameters within the required measurement envelope. As a result, Kraken expects to move forward to readying the system for the first test deployment later this year with a goal to ramping a mooring chain inspection service offering in 2022. 3) Kraken recently completed a successful offshore mooring chain inspection campaign with a major Brazilian energy company. Kraken is expected to offer ongoing support for diver-less underwater asset inspection in the Brazilian offshore energy market leveraging the SeaVision toolkit. Following this successful campaign, Kraken expects to expand its SeaVision mooring chain inspection service offering to additional international clients in 2022, including certification with an internationally recognized regulatory agency

Management Comments

Karl Kenny, Kraken President and CEO said, "The offshore mooring market was valued at over US$ 1 Billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a 3.7 % CAGR from 2021 to 2026 according to industry analyst, Market Study Report LLC. The largest market segment is offshore oil & gas FPSOs, accounting for over 2,000 km of mooring chains. There is also growing demand from offshore wind platforms. Krakens SeaVision MCIT tool provides a substitute to the conventional mechanical caliper used today for dimensional measurements resulting in a faster, objective, safer and contact-free measurement that reduces the number of offshore campaign days. This can save customers millions of dollars in operational costs and CO2 emissions associated with vessel operations and can provide significant improvement in asset integrity assurance. After several years of technology development, trials, and paid demos, Kraken expects to ramp up and globally deploy a mooring chain inspection service offering in 2022.

Figure 1: 3D Point Cloud of Mooring Chain Segment produced in real-time during Krakens recent SeaVision testing

Figure 2: Kraken's Mooring Chain Tracker leverages Deep Learning for detecting and tracking individual chain links during testing (See video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBnvbLmmEHs)



LINKS

www.krakenrobotics.com

SOCIAL MEDIA

LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/krakenrobotics

Twitter www.twitter.com/krakenrobotics

Facebook www.facebook.com/krakenroboticsinc

YouTube www.youtube.com/channel/UCEMyaMQnneTeIr71HYgrT2A

Instagram www.instagram.com/krakenrobotics

ABOUT KRAKEN ROBOTICS INC.

Kraken Robotics Inc. (TSX.V:PNG) (OTCQB: KRKNF) is a marine technology company dedicated to the production and sale of software-centric sensors, subsea batteries and thrusters, and underwater robotic systems. The company is headquartered in Newfoundland with offices in Canada, U.S., Germany, Denmark, and Brazil. Kraken is ranked as a Top 100 marine technology company by Marine Technology Reporter.

Certain information in this news release constitutes forward-looking statements. When used in this news release, the words "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "seek", "propose", "estimate", "expect", and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements with respect to, among other things, business objectives, expected growth, results of operations, performance, business projects and opportunities and financial results. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the Company's current views with respect to future events based on certain material factors and assumptions and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including without limitation, changes in market, competition, governmental or regulatory developments, general economic conditions and other factors set out in the Company's public disclosure documents. Many factors could cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to vary from those described in this news release, including without limitation those listed above. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in this news release and such forward-looking statements included in, or incorporated by reference in this news release, should not be unduly relied upon. Such statements speak only as of the date of this news release. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange Inc. nor its Regulation Services Provide (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release, and the OTCQB has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

For further information, please contact:

Joe MacKay, Chief Financial Officer

(416) 303-0605

jmackay@krakenrobotics.com

Greg Reid, Chief Operating Officer

(416) 818-9822

greid@krakenrobotics.com

Sean Peasgood, Investor Relations

(647) 955-1274

sean@sophiccapital.com
VANCOUVER, British Columbia and LAKEWOOD, Colo., July 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- International Consolidated Uranium Inc. ("CUR") (TSXV: CUR) (OTCQB: CURUF) and Energy Fuels Inc. (NYSE American: UUUU) (TSX: EFR) (Energy Fuels) are pleased to announce that CUR has entered into a definitive asset purchase agreement (the Purchase Agreement) with certain wholly-owned subsidiaries of Energy Fuels (collectively, the EF Parties) whereby CUR will acquire a portfolio of conventional uranium projects located in Utah and Colorado (the Projects) from the EF Parties (collectively, the Transaction). In connection with the closing of the Transaction, the companies have also agreed to enter into toll-milling and operating agreements with respect to the Projects which positions CUR as a potential near-term US Uranium producer subject to an improvement in uranium market conditions and/or CUR entering into acceptable uranium supply agreements.

Transaction Highlights:

New Entrant into the U.S. Uranium Sector  The acquisition and alliance is expected to establish CUR as a new player in the U.S. uranium sector. The U.S. is currently the largest generator of nuclear power in the world and, by extension, the largest consumer of uranium. At the same time, domestic production of uranium is almost non-existent due to low prices and anti-competitive practices by foreign suppliers. In late 2020, the U.S. government approved the proposed establishment of a U.S. national strategic uranium reserve. Uranium mined by CUR, at one of the acquired Projects, and processed into natural uranium concentrates at Energy Fuels White Mesa Mill located near Blanding, Utah, is expected to qualify for the proposed reserve.

 The acquisition and alliance is expected to establish CUR as a new player in the U.S. uranium sector. The U.S. is currently the largest generator of nuclear power in the world and, by extension, the largest consumer of uranium. At the same time, domestic production of uranium is almost non-existent due to low prices and anti-competitive practices by foreign suppliers. In late 2020, the U.S. government approved the proposed establishment of a U.S. national strategic uranium reserve. Uranium mined by CUR, at one of the acquired Projects, and processed into natural uranium concentrates at Energy Fuels White Mesa Mill located near Blanding, Utah, is expected to qualify for the proposed reserve. Unlocks the Value of Past Producing Mines, Permitted and Well-Positioned for Rapid Restart  The portfolio of Projects being acquired pursuant to the Transaction includes, among other assets, the following three permitted, past-producing mines in Utah, which are expected to be the immediate focus of CUR: Tony M Mine  Located in the Henry Mountains area of southeastern Utah, the Project is a large-scale, fully-developed and permitted underground mine that operated most recently in 2008. Daneros Mine  Located in the White Canyon District, the Project is a fully-developed and permitted underground mine that was most recently in production in 2013. Rim Mine  Located in the East Canyon portion of the Uravan Mineral Belt, the Project is a fully-developed and permitted underground mine that was most recently in production in 2009.

 The portfolio of Projects being acquired pursuant to the Transaction includes, among other assets, the following three permitted, past-producing mines in Utah, which are expected to be the immediate focus of CUR: Strategic Alliance with Energy Fuels, the Leading U.S. Uranium Producer  With the toll-milling agreement for production from the Projects to be executed on closing of the Transaction, CUR will become the only current U.S. uranium developer (other than Energy Fuels) with guaranteed access to Energy Fuels White Mesa Mill, which is the only permitted and operating conventional uranium mill in the U.S. Further, the operating agreements will allow the Projects to continue to be managed by the experienced team at Energy Fuels, ensuring a smooth transition.

 With the toll-milling agreement for production from the Projects to be executed on closing of the Transaction, CUR will become the only current U.S. uranium developer (other than Energy Fuels) with guaranteed access to Energy Fuels White Mesa Mill, which is the only permitted and operating conventional uranium mill in the U.S. Further, the operating agreements will allow the Projects to continue to be managed by the experienced team at Energy Fuels, ensuring a smooth transition. Compelling Acquisition Terms and Structure  The consideration payable to Energy Fuels for the acquisition of the Projects and for securing the toll-milling and operating agreements includes US$2 million payable at closing, Cdn$6 million of deferred cash payable over time, Cdn$5 million of deferred cash payable on commencement of commercial production, and such number of CUR shares that results in Energy Fuels holding 19.9% of the outstanding CUR common shares immediately after closing. CUR will also pay Energy Fuels a management fee, along with a toll milling fee for ore produced at the Projects in the future.

The consideration payable to Energy Fuels for the acquisition of the Projects and for securing the toll-milling and operating agreements includes US$2 million payable at closing, Cdn$6 million of deferred cash payable over time, Cdn$5 million of deferred cash payable on commencement of commercial production, and such number of CUR shares that results in Energy Fuels holding 19.9% of the outstanding CUR common shares immediately after closing. CUR will also pay Energy Fuels a management fee, along with a toll milling fee for ore produced at the Projects in the future. Board of Directors Strengthened with Addition of Mark Chalmers. On closing, it is expected that Mark Chalmers, President and CEO of Energy Fuels, will join the CUR Board of Directors. Mr. Chalmers, a mining engineer by training, is a recognized leader in the uranium sector, both in the US and globally, and will bring decades of experience in uranium project development and mining to CUR.

Philip Williams, President and CEO of CUR commented, We could not be more excited about todays announcement. Our strategy has been to acquire uranium projects around the world, create critical mass, and target the acquisition of larger, more advanced projects. While the recently announced acquisition of the high-grade Matoush Project in Quebec was a big step forward for CUR, todays acquisition and alliance with Energy Fuels represents a giant leap. In one transaction, we are entering the important U.S. uranium sector by acquiring past producing mines which are permitted and well positioned for a rapid restart when market conditions are right. And, with the toll-milling agreement for the Projects, we are now the only company other than Energy Fuels to have secured guaranteed access to the White Mesa Mill. This is a truly unique position for CUR. Add to that the operating agreements, which allow us to benefit from the decades of experience that the Energy Fuels team has with these projects, and the addition of Mark Chalmers to the board, and the benefits to CUR and its shareholders are substantial.

Mark Chalmers commented, This transaction has all the hallmarks of a true win-win for both parties. Energy Fuels currently holds the largest and highest quality portfolio of uranium production, development, and exploration projects in the U.S. The assets we are selling to CUR are proven U.S. uranium mines, and in fact production from these mines since 2006 has accounted for over 1,050,000 lbs of US uranium production, which would rank those mines as fifth among all current uranium producers in the US over those years. However, because Energy Fuels is focusing its attention on its core projects  the Nichols Ranch and Alta Mesa ISR properties and the Pinyon Plain, La Sal and other conventional properties, we do not believe markets have properly valued the Projects within our expansive portfolio of exceptional assets. We believe that, in order to realize the full value of our expansive portfolio, certain assets, such as the Projects, can be repositioned to the benefit of Energy Fuels and its shareholders, provided we find the right vehicle to unlock the value of these assets. In this transaction, we believe we have found that vehicle in CUR. Having known and worked with the team behind CUR for almost 15 years, I have watched keenly as they have gained market support for their consolidation strategy. This is why we have structured the transaction to provide Energy Fuels with significant exposure to the future share price performance of CUR through a 19.9% equity interest and speaks to our belief in and our commitment to these assets. My joining the CUR board, as well as Energy Fuels entering into the toll-milling and operating agreements for the Projects, should also be strong signals as to how important we view our alliance with CUR for these assets.

Terms of the Asset Purchase Agreement

Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, CUR will acquire from the EF Parties 100% of the Tony M, Daneros and Rim mines in Utah, as well as the Sage Plain property and eight DOE Leases in Colorado, for the following consideration:

the payment of US$2.0 million in cash, payable on closing of the Transaction;

the issuance of that number of CUR shares that results in Energy Fuels holding 19.9% of the outstanding CUR common shares immediately after closing of the Transaction;

the payment of Cdn$3.0 million in cash on or before the 18-month anniversary of closing of the Transaction;

the payment of an additional Cdn$3.0 million in cash on or before the 36-month anniversary of closing of the Transaction; and

the payment of up to Cdn$5.0 million in contingent cash payments tied to achieving commercial production at the Tony M Mine, the Daneros Mine and the Rim Mine.



The Purchase Agreement includes provision for the return of the Projects to Energy Fuels in the event that CUR does not make the deferred cash payments as described above.

Closing of the Transaction is subject to satisfaction of certain closing conditions including, among other things, CUR receiving approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. All securities issued in connection with the Agreement are subject to a hold period expiring four months and one day from the date of issuance.

The Strategic Alliance

The strategic alliance between CUR and Energy Fuels for the Projects involves three key components:

The Toll-Milling Agreement  Under this agreement, the EF Parties will toll-mill ore mined from the Projects at the White Mesa Mill, subject to payment by CUR of a toll-milling fee and certain other terms and conditions. The Operating Agreements  Under these agreements, the EF Parties will provide ongoing services for a fee to maintain the Projects in good standing, as well as additional services as agreed to by the parties. The Investor Rights Agreement  Under this agreement, for so long as Energy Fuels equity ownership in CUR remains at or above 10%, it will be entitled to equity participation rights to maintain its pro rata equity ownership in CUR and to appoint one nominee to the CUR Board of Directors. Energy Fuels has also agreed to certain resale restrictions on the shares of CUR it will hold and to provide voting support in certain circumstances.



Strengthening the Board of Directors

In accordance with the terms of the investor rights agreement to be entered into on closing of the Transaction, for so long as Energy Fuels maintains its equity ownership in the common shares of CUR at or above 10%, Energy Fuels is entitled to nominate one member to the CUR Board of Directors. On closing of the Transaction, it is expected that Energy Fuels will nominate Mark Chalmers, its current President and CEO, to the CUR Board of Directors. Mr. Chalmers has spent nearly his entire career in the uranium industry, taking the role of President and Chief Executive Officer of Energy Fuels on February 1, 2018. He returned to Energy on July 1, 2016 after 15 years working in the uranium sector in the Southern Hemisphere. From 2011 to 2015, Mr. Chalmers served as Executive General Manager of Production for Paladin Energy Ltd., a uranium producer with assets in Australia and Africa, including the Langer Heinrich and Kayelekera mines where, as head of operations, he oversaw sustained, significant increases in production while reducing operating costs. He also possesses extensive experience in ISR uranium production, including management of the Beverley Uranium Mine owned by General Atomics (Australia), and the Highland Mine owned by Cameco Corporation (USA). Mr. Chalmers has also consulted to several of the largest players in the uranium supply sector, including BHP Billiton, Rio Tinto, and Marubeni and, until recently, served as the Chair of the Australian Uranium Council, a position he held for 10 years. Mr. Chalmers is a registered professional engineer and holds a Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering from the University of Arizona.

The Tony M Mine

The Tony M Mine is located in eastern Garfield County, Utah approximately five miles north of Ticaboo, Utah and approximately 127 road miles west of the White Mesa Mill. The deposit currently forms part of the Henry Mountains Complex.

Uranium mineralization on the property is hosted by favorable sandstone of the Salt Wash Member of the Morrison Formation, a principal uranium host in the US. Mineralization primarily consists of coffinite with minor uraninite, which usually occurs in close association with vanadium mineralization.

The Tony M Mine was originally developed by Plateau Resources Ltd. (Plateau) in the late 1970s to provide a nuclear fuel supply to its parent company Consumers Power Company (Consumers) of Michigan. In 1984, operations were suspended.

In February 2007, Denison Mines Corp. (Denison) acquired the Tony M property and, following rehabilitation work and re-establishment of surface facilities in 2006, received the necessary operational permits for the reopening of the Tony M underground workings, after which it commenced mining activities in September 2007. Denison operated the mine from September 2007 to November 2008. The following table sets forth the historic production from the Tony M Mine by Plateau and Denison:

Tony M Historic Production

Company Tons (000s) %U 3 O 8 Lbs U 3 O 8 (000s) Plateau (1979-1984) 237 0.12 569 Denison (2007-2008) 162 0.13 422 Totals 399 0.12 991

In 2008, the Tony M Mine was placed on care and maintenance, and in June 2012, Energy Fuels acquired all of Denisons uranium properties in the United States, including the Henry Mountains Complex. Since acquiring the Henry Mountain Complex, Energy Fuels has not carried out any further exploration work nor conducted any further mine development at the Tony M Mine. The Tony M Mine is currently being maintained in a ready state with all required permits in place to resume operations as market conditions warrant.

In June 2012, Roscoe Postle Associates Inc. prepared a technical report entitled Technical Report on the Henry Mountains Complex Uranium Property, Utah U.S.A. for Energy Fuels, which detailed the mineral resource estimate set out in the table below for the Tony M Mine. This mineral resource estimate is considered to be a historical estimate for CUR as defined under NI 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101). A Qualified Person has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimate as a current Mineral Resource, and CUR is not treating the historical estimate as a current Mineral Resource. See below under Technical Disclosure and Qualified Person.

Tony M Mine Historical Mineral Resource Estimate

Category Tons (000s) %U 3 O 8 Lbs U 3 O 8 (000s) Indicated 1,690 0.24 8,130 Inferred 860 0.16 2,750

Notes:

1. Mineral Resources were classified in accordance with CIM Definition Standards.

2. Cut-off grade is 0.10% eU 3 O 8 over a minimum thickness of 2 ft. for the Tony M-Southwest deposit.

3. Mineral Resources have not been demonstrated to be economically viable.

4. All mine production by Plateau and Denison has been deducted.

5. Some totals may not add due to rounding.

Following closing of the Transaction, CUR intends to undertake a program to verify the historical estimate as a current mineral resource estimate and complete a preliminary economic assessment to quantify the cost, development activity and time required to bring the mine back into production.

The Daneros Mine

The Daneros Mine is located on the Colorado Plateau in San Juan County, Utah approximately 70 miles west of the White Mesa Mill. The property is in the Red Canyon portion of the White Canyon Mining District.

Major uranium deposits in the White Canyon District occur at or near the base of the Upper Triassic Chinle Formation, in fluvial channel deposits of the Shinarump Member, the basal member of the Chinle Formation. Uranium mineralization appears to be related to low-energy depositional environments in that uranium is localized in fluvial sandstones that lie beneath organic-rich lacustrine-marsh mudstone and carbonaceous delta-front sediments.

The Daneros Mine operated from 2009 until October 2012 when the mine was placed on standby. Initially, White Canyon Uranium Limited (White Canyon) brought the mine into production by sending millfeed to the White Mesa Mill under a toll-milling agreement with Denison. Daneros was White Canyons principal asset. Denison acquired White Canyon in June 2011 for AU$57 Million in cash and continued to operate the mine until its U.S. operations were acquired by Energy Fuels in June 2012. The following table sets forth the historic production from the Daneros Mine:

Daneros Historic Production

Project Tons (000s) %U 3 O 8 Lbs U 3 O 8 (000s) Daneros (2010-2013) 120 0.26 628 Other Mines1 73 0.22 314

Notes:

1) Other Mines include the Cove (Lark), Bullseye and Spook former mines. These former mines are located on claims obtained as part of the Transaction.



In March 2018, Peters Geosciences produced a technical report entitled Updated Report On The Daneros Mine Project, San Juan County, Utah, U.S.A. for Energy Fuels, which detailed the mineral resource estimate set out in the table below for the Daneros Mine. This mineral resource estimate is considered to be a historical estimate for CUR as defined under NI 43-101. A Qualified Person has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimate as a current Mineral Resource, and CUR is not treating the historical estimate as a current Mineral Resource. See below under Technical Disclosure and Qualified Person.

Daneros Mine Historical Mineral Resource Estimate

Project Tons (000s) %U 3 O 8 Lbs U 3 O 8 (000s) Indicated 20 0.36 142 Inferred 7 0.37 52

Notes:

1) Mineral Resources were classified in accordance with CIM Definition Standards.

2) Mineral Resources are estimated at a cut-off grade of 0.23% eU 3 O 8 .

3) Mineral Resources are estimated using a long-term uranium price of $55 per pound U 3 O 8 .

4) A minimum thickness of 1 foot was used.

5) Bulk density is 0.07143 ton/ft3 (14 ft3/ton).

6) Mineral Resources are exclusive of Mineral Reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability.

7) Numbers may not add due to rounding.

The Daneros Mine remains fully permitted and well-positioned for restarting operations on an expeditious basis as market conditions warrant. Following closing of the Acquisition, CUR intends to perform surface drilling to verify the historical estimate as a current mineral resource estimate and connectivity of resources. Following mine restart, CUR expects to perform underground long hole drilling to determine the likely location of any mineral resources and where to drive mine headings to best access these resources.

Rim Mine

The Rim Mine is a permitted, formerly producing mine located 15 miles northeast of Monticello, Utah in San Juan County, approximately 62 road miles from the White Mesa Mill. The property consists of 26 unpatented lode mining claims, a private lease, and a Utah State Mineral Lease totaling about 1,100 acres. The mine has operated historically on a periodic basis starting in the mid-1960s. Mining last occurred in early 2008 by Denison and ceased in late 2010. Energy Fuels acquired the property in 2012 and has maintained it on care and maintenance since that time, such that it can be restarted with relatively little permitting or development costs as market conditions warrant.

A previous internal resource estimate by Energy Fuels (this estimate was not completed in accordance with the disclosure standards of NI 43-101), indicated that the project has high vanadium grades at 1.83% V 2 O 5 and a ~9.15:1 uranium-to-vanadium ratio, and the table below sets out the previous resource estimate (using categories other than those set out in section 1.2 and 1.3 of NI 43-101). This estimate is considered to be a historical estimate for CUR as defined under NI 43-101. A Qualified Person has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimate as a current Mineral Resource, and CUR is not treating the historical estimate as a current Mineral Resource. See below under Technical Disclosure and Qualified Person.

Rim Mine Historical Mineral Resource Estimate

Tons (000s) %U 3 O 8 Lbs U 3 O 8 (000s) %V 2 O 5 Lbs V 2 O 5 (000s) Inferred 82 0.20 327 1.83 3,028

Notes:

1) The historical estimates for RIM do not comply with CIM Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves as required by NI 43-101 and have no comparable resource classification.

2) Mineral Resources are estimated at a cut-off grade of 0.10% U 3 O 8 .

3) A minimum thickness of 3 feet was used.

Sage Plain

The Sage Plain Property is located about 16 miles northeast of Monticello, Utah and approximately 54 road miles from the White Mesa Mill. The Sage Plain District (also referred to as the Egnar District or Summit Point District) is a portion of the greater Slick Rock District. It is the southwest continuation into Utah of the prolific Uravan Mineral Belt.

Uranium-vanadium deposits were first discovered in the Morrison Formation 32 miles north of the Sage Plain Project in the 1880s. Uranium and vanadium mineralization at the Sage Plain project is hosted in sandstones of the Salt Wash Member of the Morrison Formation, which is also the host unit for the uranium deposits at the Rim Mine, Tony M project and the DOE leases in western Colorado. The Morrison sediments accumulated as oxidized detritus in the fluvial environment. However, there were isolated environments where reduced conditions existed, such as oxbow lakes and carbon-rich point bars where the uranium precipitated. While Sage Plain is part of the Uravan Mineral Belt, it has a significantly higher ratio of V 2 O 5 :U 3 O 8 in the rock than the deposits farther north. Vanadium may have been leached from the detrital iron-titanium mineral grains and subsequently deposited along with or prior to the uranium.

The project area is at the location of the historic Calliham Mine. The current Sage Plain landholdings consist of two fee mineral leases covering about 960 acres (Calliham and Crain) and a Utah State lease of 640 acres.

The Calliham Mine was in production from the 1970s to the early 1980s by Atlas Minerals. The Calliham Mine property was explored in the early 1970s by Hecla Mining Company. The Calliham lease was acquired by Atlas Minerals and went into production in March 1976. Atlas Minerals departed the uranium business in the region in the mid-1980s. The Calliham Mine and associated leases were acquired by Umetco Minerals (Umetco) in 1988 and operated briefly in 1990-1991 during a spike in vanadium prices. During Umetcos tenure, the Calliham Mine produced 13,300 tons of ore averaging 0.21% U 3 O 8 (~56,000 lbs. U 3 O 8 ) and 1.29% V 2 O 5 (~343,000 lbs. V 2 O 5 ). This ore was milled at the White Mesa Mill near Blanding, Utah. All infrastructure from the historic mine has been removed and all permits have lapsed. The following table sets forth the historic production from the Calliham Mine:

Calliham Mine Historic Production

Operator Tons (000s) %U 3 O 8 Lbs U 3 O 8 (000s) %V 2 O 5 Lbs V 2 O 5 (000s) Atlas 209 0.15 605 0.90 3,773 Umetco 13 0.21 56 1.29 343 Total 221 0.15 661 0.93 4,116

In a technical report entitled UPDATED TECHNICAL REPORT ON SAGE PLAIN PROJECT (Including the Calliham Mine) dated March 18, 2015, the mineral resource estimate set out in the table below was published. This mineral resource estimate is considered to be a historical estimate for CUR as defined under NI 43-101. A Qualified Person has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimate as a current Mineral Resource, and CUR is not treating the historical estimate as a current Mineral Resource. See below under Technical Disclosure and Qualified Person.

Calliham/Crain Historical Mineral Resource Estimate

Tons (000s) %U 3 O 8 Lbs U 3 O 8 (000s) %V 2 O 5 Lbs V 2 O 5 (000s) Measured 240 0.16 772 1.32 6,349 Indicated 13 0.10 26 0.77 199 Inferred 10 0.13 25 0.94 188

Notes:

1) Grades and tonnages shown as diluted amounts.

2) Vanadium grades are based on assays where known, otherwise estimated at the average V 2 O 5 :U 3 O 8 ratios for the individual properties used by previous operators based on core assay data and past production.

3) Mineral Resources were classified in accordance with CIM Definition Standards.

The DOE Leases

The DOE leases are located in the historically productive Uravan Mineral Belt portion of Mesa, Montrose, and San Miguel Counties, Colorado. The tracts are designated C-SR-12, C-SR-16A, C-AM-19, C-AM-19A, C-AM-20, C-CM-24, C-G-26, and C-G-27. The leases are located 80-175 road miles from the White Mesa Mill. New 10-year leases for these lease tracts were executed by Energy Fuels on January 6, 2020.

Technical Disclosure and Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release was reviewed and approved by Dean T. Wilton, CPG-7659, who is a Qualified Person (as defined in NI 43-101).

Each of the above estimates are considered to be historical estimates as defined under NI 43-101 for CUR, and have been sourced as follows:

Tony M Mine: reported by Energy Fuels in a Technical Report entitled Technical Report on the Henry Mountains Complex Uranium Property, Utah U.S.A. prepared by William E. Roscoe, Douglas H. Underhill, and Thomas C. Pool of Roscoe Postle Associates, Inc., dated June 27, 2012; Daneros Mine: reported by Energy Fuels in a Technical Report entitled Updated Report on the Daneros Mine Project, San Juan County, Utah, U.S.A., prepared by Douglas C. Peters, C. P. G., of Peters Geosciences, dated March 2, 2018; Rim Mine: reported by Energy Fuels in an internal company report entitled Rim Resource Evaluation prepared by Energy Fuels dated June 14, 2018; and Sage Plain Project: reported by Energy Fuels in a Technical Report entitled Updated Technical Report on Sage Plain Project (Including the Calliham Mine), prepared by Douglas C. Peters, CPG of Peters Geosciences, dated March 18, 2015.

In each instance, other than with respect to Rim, the historical estimate is reported using the categories of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves as defined by the Canadian Institute CIM Definition Standards for mineral reserves, and mineral reserves that are incorporated by reference into National Instrument 43-101, and these historical estimates are not considered by CUR to be current. The historical estimates for Rim do not comply with CIM Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves as required by NI 43-101 and have no comparable resource classification. In each instance, the reliability of the historical estimate is considered reasonable, but a Qualified Person has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimate as a current Mineral Resource and CUR is not treating the historical estimate as a current Mineral Resource. The historical information provides an indication of the exploration potential of the properties but may not be representative of expected results.

For the Tony M Mine, as disclosed in the above noted technical report, the historical mineral resources were estimated by Denison using the contour method and were audited by Scott Wilson RPA in the 2009 Technical Report (Underhill and Roscoe, 2009). CUR would need to review and verify the scientific information and conduct an analysis and reconciliation of production data in order to verify the Tony M historical estimate as a current Mineral Resource.

For the Daneros Mine, as disclosed in the above noted technical report, the historical estimate was prepared by Energy Fuels using a wireframe model of the mineralized zone based on an outside bound of a 0.05% eU3O8 grade cutoff at a minimum thickness of 1 foot. CUR would need to conduct surface drilling to confirm resources and connectivity of resources in order to verify the Daneros historical estimate as a current Mineral Resource.

For the Rim Mine, as disclosed in the above noted internal report, the historical estimate was prepared internally by Energy Fuels using the inverse distance squared interpolation method and checked by the nearest neighbor (polygonal) method. CUR would need to conduct an exploration program, including twinning of historical drill holes in order to verify the RIM historical estimate as a current Mineral Resource.

For the Sage Plain Project, as disclosed in the above noted technical report, the historical estimate was prepared by Peters Geosciences using modified polygonal method. CUR would need to conduct an exploration program, including twinning of historical drill holes in order to verify the Sage Plain historical estimate as a current Mineral Resource.

About Energy Fuels Inc.

Energy Fuels is a leading U.S.-based uranium mining company, supplying U 3 O 8 to major nuclear utilities. Energy Fuels also produces vanadium from certain of its projects, as market conditions warrant, and is ramping up to commercial production of rare earth carbonate in 2021. Its corporate offices are in Lakewood, Colorado, near Denver, and all of its assets and employees are in the United States. Energy Fuels holds three of America's key uranium production centers: the White Mesa Mill in Utah, the Nichols Ranch ISR Project in Wyoming, and the Alta Mesa ISR Project in Texas. The White Mesa Mill is the only conventional uranium mill operating in the U.S. today, has a licensed capacity of over 8 million pounds of U 3 O 8 per year, has the ability to produce vanadium when market conditions warrant, as well as REE carbonate from various uranium-bearing ores. The Nichols Ranch ISR Project is on standby and has a licensed capacity of 2 million pounds of U 3 O 8 per year. The Alta Mesa ISR Project is also on standby and has a licensed capacity of 1.5 million pounds of U 3 O 8 per year. In addition to the above production facilities, Energy Fuels also has one of the largest NI 43-101 compliant uranium resource portfolios in the U.S. and several uranium and uranium/vanadium mining projects on standby and in various stages of permitting and development. The primary trading market for Energy Fuels' common shares is the NYSE American under the trading symbol "UUUU," and Energy Fuels common shares are also listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the trading symbol "EFR." Energy Fuels' website is www.energyfuels.com.

About International Consolidated Uranium

International Consolidated Uranium Inc. (TSXV: CUR) is well financed to execute its strategy of consolidating and advancing uranium projects around the globe. The Company has acquired a 100% interest or has entered into option agreements to acquire a 100% interest in seven uranium projects, in Australia, Canada, and Argentina, each with significant past expenditures and attractive characteristics for development. CUR has entered into option agreements with Mega Uranium Ltd. (TSX: MGA) to acquire a 100% interest in the Ben Lomond and Georgetown uranium projects in Australia; with IsoEnergy Ltd. (TSXV: ISO) to acquire a 100% interest in the Mountain Lake uranium project in Nunavut, Canada; with a private individual to acquire a 100% interest in the Moran Lake uranium and vanadium project in Labrador, Canada; and with U3O8 Corp. (TSXV: UWE.H) to acquire a 100% interest in the Laguna Salada uranium and vanadium project in Argentina. CUR has also acquired a 100% interest in the Dieter Lake uranium project and entered into an agreement to acquire a 100% interest in the Matoush uranium project, both in Quebec, Canada. The option agreement with IsoEnergy for Mountain Lake and the option agreement with U3O8 Corp. for Laguna Salada both remain subject to regulatory approval.

Contacts

International Consolidated Uranium Inc.

Philip Williams

President and CEO

+1 778 383 3057

pwilliams@consolidateduranium.com

Energy Fuels



Curtis Moore

VP of Marketing & Corporate Development

(303) 974-2154

cmoore@energyfuels.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulations Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information.

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to activities, events or developments that CUR and Energy Fuels expect or anticipate will or may occur in the future including: any expectation that the Transaction will be completed; any expectation as to the accuracy of mineral resource estimates; any expectation with respect to any permitting, development or other work that may be required to bring any of the Projects into production; any expectation that any of the Projects can be brought back into production rapidly or expeditiously; any expectations as to future exploration potential for any of the Projects; any expectation as to the outcome or success of any proposed programs for any of the Projects; any expectation that the proposed strategic alliance will be successful or that the transition of ownership of the Projects will be smooth; any expectation that the Transaction will be a win-win transaction for both CUR and Energy Fuels; any expectation that the Transaction will result in the market properly valuing the Projects; any expectation as to the future performance of CURs shares and the value of Energy Fuels share position in CUR; any expectation that Energy Fuels will maintain its share position in CUR in the longer term; any expectation that market conditions will warrant future production from any of the Projects; any expectation that any future production payments will become due and payable and be paid; any expectation that the TSXV will approve the Transaction; any expectation that the proposed uranium reserve will be established and the terms and conditions of the proposed uranium reserve; and any expectation that any uranium produced from the Projects will be eligible for the proposed uranium reserve. Generally, but not always, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of words such as plans, expects, is expected, budget, scheduled, estimates, forecasts, intends, anticipates, or believes or the negative connotation thereof or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, might or will be taken, occur or be achieved or the negative connotation thereof. This information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include risks associated with: the failure to close the Transaction; potential conflicts of interest between CUR and Energy Fuels; the costs associated with bringing any of the Projects back into production; permitting and regulatory delays; litigation risks; competition from others; market factors, including future demand for and prices realized from the sale of uranium and vanadium; the proposed uranium reserve never being established or the uranium reserve if established not benefitting the Projects; government actions that could restrict or eliminate the ability to mine on public lands, such as through the creation or expansion of national monuments or through mineral withdrawals; and the policies and actions of foreign governments, which could impact the competitive supply of and global markets for uranium and vanadium. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release, and CUR and Energy Fuels disclaim, 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 managements 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. CUR and Energy Fuels assume no obligation to update the information in this communication, except as otherwise required by law.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fcaa709f-cf8f-44b2-8431-6ffc952d2dd8
Amherst, Nova Scotia, July 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Theres no better place to celebrate biodiversity than on the 6,245-acre Missaquash Marsh. Located along the Nova Scotia and New Brunswick border, this expansive wetland is teaming with wildlife. The area provides important habitat for many species of migratory birds and fish, including species at risk, and is known as a wildlife highway. To ensure it remains healthy and productive, the Province of Nova Scotia and Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) have re-committed to conserving this wetlandthe largest managed marsh in Atlantic Canadafor another 15 years.

Missaquash Marsh is one of the most storied and ecologically important wetlands that Ducks Unlimited Canada manages in the Atlantic region, says Tom Duffy, DUC manager of provincial operations for Atlantic Canada. You only have to stand there among the wild rice, the black ducks, and the tree swallowsand so much moreto know that its a special place worth protecting.

In the early 1960s, DUC and the Province of Nova Scotia recognized the potential to return some of these idle agricultural marshlands to productive wetlands. Six decades later, DUC continues to invest in the future of this important expanse of habitat in collaboration with the Department of Lands and Forestry and the Department of Environment and Climate Change who own 4,594 acres of the marsh.

Ducks Unlimited Canada has been a valuable partner in our efforts to preserve and conserve wetlands across the province. We look forward to many more years of successful collaboration as we all do our part to protect our provinces beautiful biodiversity, says Chuck Porter, Minister of Lands and Forestry.

This large swath of wetland on the Chignecto Isthmus benefits many people, including recreational boaters, anglers, trappers, hunters and birdwatchers. It also supports the gaspereaux and eel fishery and is an important area for many conservation organizations, local Indigenous communities and other governments.

Based on research undertaken in partnership with Acadia Universityand with support from Fisheries and Oceans Canadas Coastal Restoration Fund, the North American Wetlands Conservation Act, Irving Oil, and other Canadian and American supportersDUC recently rebuilt the marshs fish-ladder and enhanced and upgraded the dikes to improve public access. Visitors can explore the marsh by walking along the dikes and logging wildlife observations using the iNaturalist feature on the My DUCTM app. Missaquash Marsh was also designated as a Treasured Wetland of Nova Scotia in 2019. Visitors can learn more about the site using an online storymap.

-30-

About Ducks Unlimited Canada: Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) is the leader in wetland conservation. A registered charity, DUC partners with government, industry, non-profit organizations and landowners to conserve wetlands that are critical to waterfowl, wildlife and the environment. www.ducks.ca

Attachment
NEW YORK, NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Catholic Medical Mission Board (CMMB) has released its 2021 Summer Impact Report, highlighting stories of resilience from vulnerable communities where we work. Through the challenging times of COVID-19 and its impact on already fragile health systems, CMMB has expanded maternal health services and distributed more than $160 million worth of medical products to healthcare partners worldwide.



Through our Children and Mothers Partnership program (CHAMPS)which provides live-saving medical care to women, children, and their communitiesCMMB reached 216,918 people and 27,933 children under 5 years old with health and human services. An additional 47,159 people received improved access to clean water. With its critical impact in reducing preventable illnesses and morbidity, CMMB is expanding CHAMPS over the next 3 years.

Years of providing care, building partnerships and the foundational elements of our CHAMPS programaccess to clean water, building healthcare capacity and access to medicines and suppliesproved pivotal as many of these practices mirrored the vital needs in helping treat and slow the spread of COVID-19, said Dianne Jean-Francois, CMMB Country Director in Haiti. The expansion of our CHAMPS program will allow us to extend the reach and impact in our communities.

Together with pharmaceutical partners, such as Merck & Co., CMMBs Medical Donations Program has expanded access to healthcare for the worlds most vulnerable communities. Merck & Co. provides medicines and medical supplies that are in high demand by local hospital partners and has had an important impact on CMMBs CHAMPS communities.

CMMB is proud to partner with Merck & Co. to not only increase access to high quality medicines around the world and to optimize their use, but to enhance support of those at the forefront of the crucial work of healthcare for their communities, said Darnelle Bernier, Vice President of CMMBs Medical Donations Program.

From October 2020 through March 2021, $162,451,763 worth of medical products were distributed to 16 different countries and 29 healthcare partners received medical products to distribute worldwide, proving vital in many countries deeply impacted by the pandemic.

Inventory throughout South Sudan was low, so we could not properly preparethere was no PPE, no sanitizer, facilities were not ready, said Dr. Mustapha Andruma from CMMBs St. Theresa Hospital in South Sudan. Donations from CMMB made it possible for us to receive a lot of PPE and supplies that we initially didnt have. Now, CMMB is working to roll out vaccines at the state level in South Sudan.

View the 2021 Summer Impact Report here: https://cmmb.org/2021-summer-impact-report/

For questions about the information contained within this press release or about CMMB and its programs, please contact the Director of Communications, Luke Dougherty at LDougherty@cmmb.org

About CMMB

CMMB (Catholic Medical Mission Board) provides long-term medical and development aid to communities affected by poverty and unequal access to healthcare. Focusing on womens and children health, we deliver sustainable health services in Peru, Haiti, Kenya, South Sudan, and Zambia. For over a century, we have worked to strengthen and support communities through healthcare programs and initiatives, the placement of volunteer, and the distribution of medicines and medical supplies. CMMB has delivered over 3,000 shipments with a total value of more than $4 billion worth of medical aid in 88 countries over the last ten years.

Learn more at: https://cmmb.org/

Attachments
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, July 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Plant Veda Foods Ltd. (CSE:MILK) (XFRA:A3CS6B) (the Company or Plant Veda), an award-winning dairy-alternative company, is pleased to announce that Deanna Embury has joined the Companys Advisory Board.



Deanna is an entrepreneur with a passion for business and wellness, who in 2003, co-founded Licious Living, one of Canadas first online, direct-to-door meal delivery services. As CEO of Licious Living, Deanna took the company from a Vancouver start-up to a multi-service operation that included freshly prepared meal delivery, retail locations and commissary production in three cities. In 2014, Licious Living was sold to Vancouver-based Spud.ca, Canadas largest online grocery retailer. Deanna remained the CEO of the subsidiary for 18 months, during which time it rebranded to Be Fresh Local Market.

Since her departure from Be Fresh/Spud, Deanna has continued her passion for building businesses, developing two new concepts: Assembli, a fresh fast casual restaurant business that opened its first store in May 2017; and Blended For You, an online direct delivery company that offers complete nutrition, frozen smoothie, soup and chia bowl blends, launched in January 2018. Deanna also provides consulting services to start-up and high-growth businesses focusing on strategic planning, team-building, marketing, operations, concept development, product development, online strategy and organizational structure.

We are thrilled to have Deanna on board as she has a proven track record of success in the ecommerce and food delivery industry, said Michael Yang, President, Plant Veda. Her joining the board of advisors is going to help significantly strengthen our direct-to-consumer platform on plantveda.com as we continue to reach more consumers and make a greater impact in shifting humanity to a healthier plant-based lifestyle.

About Plant Veda

Plant Veda has a mission to accelerate humanitys shift to a plant-based lifestyle. They remain clear in their goals, which is to improve the environment and humanitys overall health due to plant-based lifestyles. They have succeeded in creating award-winning plant-based dairy alternatives that are better than the original in terms of health and flavour. Plant Veda continues to shake up the dairy-free market by creating unique, one-of-a-kind products that leave their customers forgetting about dairy to begin with.

To learn more about Plant Veda, visit www.plantveda.com.

Investor Relations:

Email: Investors@PlantVeda.com

Number: 778-383-6737

Media Contact:

Email: Media@PlantVeda.com

Forward-Looking Information

All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. The use of any of the words anticipate, continue, estimate, expect, may, will, would, project, should, believe and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ, materially from the Companys expectations are disclosed in the Companys documents filed from time to time with the Canadian Securities Exchange and the provincial securities commissions in which it is a reporting issuer.
Livonia, MI, July 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- All Home Care Matters, a leading podcast and YouTube channel focused on dementia, Alzheimers, caregiving and resources, has been winning plaudits from leading CEOs and executives in the field.

All Home Care Matters features a wide array of leading experts in the field of healthcare and long-term care who provide resources, tips and discussions on important age-related topics, and offers valuable insights and information for families and those caring for loved ones.

Recent discussions on the program included tips on how to cope and manage family members experiencing sundowners syndrome, which occurs when senior adults experience intense mood and behavioral changes when the sun goes down, and a show devoted to the best technology tips to help with caregiving.

The show has featured software developers who have created new programs and apps to help support families and their loved ones as well as authors of books. Give how challenging caregiving can be, All Home Care Matters has tried to highlight some of the incredible technologies that make caregiving and senior living more efficient, organized, and even meaningful.



All Home Care Matters program has more than 2 million views on YouTube and thousands of downloads.

All Home Care Matters has had more than 2 million views on YouTube, 30,000 YouTube subscribers and hundreds of thousands of downloads on podcast platforms like Amazon, iHeart Radio, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify. The show is currently in discussions to establish a Roku TV partnership.

We have the privilege of enriching the lives of our clients and their family members each day, said a spokesperson for All Home Care Matters.

Guests have included Vicki Hoak, executive director of the Home Care Association of America, who spoke about the effect that COVID-19 has had on the home care industry as well as on the future of the home care industry, and Neil Grunberg, co-founder and vice president of strategy and development at AlayaCare, who discussed health care software, services and data insights that empower care providers worldwide to deliver better outcomes.

Recent episodes include Quick Tips: Recognizing the Signs of Stress in Seniors and Dealing with Difficult Behaviors in Dementia. In the former, the program examines how the stress in older adults tends to show up differently for everyone and can lead to major health problems. Caregivers may not realize that stress, which is common for elderly people experiencing mental decline, can manifest in a variety of somatic symptoms.

The episode dealing with difficult behaviors in dementia offers listeners tips on situations that feel nearly impossible to manage. It provides suggestions on de-escalating, for example, that can help keep the peace in the home. One issue that caregivers often struggle with is the emotional fallout from role reversal, where the child must take care of the parentwith the control issues such a transition involves.

Other episodes have dealt with fall prevention tips for senior, understanding cataracts and communicating with elderly loved ones. This latter episode tackles what is arguably the greatest challenge in home care. Family caregivers frequently struggle to understand seniorsand be understood by them. Communication can be difficult for reasons ranging from health problems to rising tensions related to changing family dynamics. The episode shares tips on how to approach the conversation from a place of patience, empathy, and support. The goal is to enable everyone to face better days ahead.

Listener feedback has been positive. One audience member shared, We have so many questions on where to go now that our mother has been diagnosed with dementia. There are many helpful episodes on your podcast that we all have been listening to and hope you know how helpful you are to our family and I am confident to so many others out there going through the exact same things we are. We appreciate your podcast very much!

Regarding the episode Safety for Elderly Parents, a listener remarked, The episode on fall safety tips felt like you had talked with me about our parents safety concerns. Thanks for covering such an important topic!

Whenever my mom tries to leave the house I get panicked and never sure how to best handle it, said a listener to the episode on wandering and dementia, adding, We will definitely be trying some of these things. Similarly, another audience member stated, Our family has had good and bad experiences with caregivers. We wish we would have found this podcast before making those decisions. It could have helped us avoid so many pitfalls when the time came.

For more information about All Home Care Matters, visit allhomecarematters.com. To watch All Home Care Matters, visit their YouTube channel. To listen to the All Home Care Matters podcast, visit Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or iHeart Radio.

All Home Care Matters can also be followed on Facebook at @AllHomeCareMatters, on Instagram at @allhomecarematters and on Twitter at @allhcms.

The All Home Care Matters podcast is proudly sponsored by Enriched Life Home Care Services. The philosophy at Enriched Life Home Care Services is that each individual they care for is their most important client. Because they understand that everyones needs are unique, they create a customized plan for each client. As a result, they have received very positive feedback from clients and have been named and awarded the number one home care provider in Michigan by Top Rated Local in 2019, 2020 and 2021.



Media Contact:

All Home Care Matters

contact@allhomecarematters.com

https://allhomecarematters.com/

Livonia, MI

Content Disclaimer:



DISCLAIMER of Liability. IN NO EVENT SHALL OUR PR COMPANY BE LIABLE OR RESPONSIBLE TO YOU OR ANY OTHER PERSON FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL, OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES OF ANY KIND, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, LOST PROFITS OR LOST OPPORTUNITIES, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES IN ADVANCE AND REGARDLESS OF THE CAUSE OF ACTION UPON WHICH ANY SUCH CLAIM IS BASED, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY CLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH ANY OF THE CONTENT, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, AUDIO, PHOTOGRAPHS, AND VIDEOS, OR OF THE ACCURACY, RELIABILITY, OR LEGALITY OF ANY STATEMENT MADE IN OR OMITTED FROM ANY advertisement, sponsorship, endorsement, testimonial, opinion, or other product-related or service-related statement or review appearing in the Websites or in ANY post or article distributed via the Websites.








HALIFAX, Nova Scotia, July 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Erdene Resource Development Corporation (TSX: ERD | MSE: ERDN) (Erdene or the Company) has initiated a strategic review of its 100%-owned1 Khuvyn Khar Molybdenum-Copper Project (Project) in southwest Mongolia, located 30 kilometres east of the Khundii Gold District. The Khuvyn Khar license hosts the Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper deposit, one of the largest undeveloped molybdenum-copper resources in Asia, as well as multiple copper and molybdenum prospects.



Project Highlights

Erdene holds a 100% interest in the 6,041-hectare Khuvyn Khar mining license, with a remaining term of up to 60 years.

The license contains a large-scale porphyry system, hosting Zuun Mod, one of Asias largest undeveloped molybdenum-copper projects, as well as multiple copper prospects.

Zuun Mod contains an NI 43-101 Measured and Indicated Resources of 273.5 million pounds molybdenum and 330.7 million pounds copper, and Inferred Resources of 157.7 million pounds molybdenum and 197.7 million pounds copper 2 .

. Drilling 2.2 kilometre northwest of Zuun Mod has intersected 34 metres of 1.3% copper and 9.2 g/t silver  the majority of the license area remains under explored.

The Project is situated 180 kilometres northwest of China, the worlds largest copper and molybdenum consumer and steel producer.



Quotes from the Company

With the recent increase in demand for copper and molybdenum, and the positive longer term outlook for these commodities, Erdene has initiated a strategic review of its Khuvyn Khar Project, said Peter Akerley, President and CEO of Erdene. As one of the largest undeveloped molybdenum-copper projects in Asia, with significant potential to expand resources, the Company sees several paths to unlock the value of the Project for our shareholders. This strategic review will consider multiple avenues to optimize the Projects value, including a sale, joint venture partnership, or spinout.

About Khuvyn Khar Molybdenum-Copper Project

The Khuvyn Khar Molybdenum-Copper Project is located in Bayankhongor Province, Mongolia, approximately 180 kilometres north of the Mongolia-China border and the Nariin Sukhait coal mine complex. The 6,041-hectare Khuvyn Khar mining license, underpinning the Project, was issued in 2011 and is valid for up to an additional 60 years. The Project is located approximately 30 kilometres east of Erdenes Bayan Khundii Gold Project.

Exploration work on the property began in 2002, with a joint venture between WMC Resource Project Ltd (WMC) and Gallant Minerals Mongolia Ltd (Gallant). This work identified a large porphyry complex with significant copper-molybdenum-rhenium (Cu-Mo-Re) mineralization intersected in limited drilling in the southeast and northern portions of the complex. After acquiring the rights to the Project from Gallant in 2005, Erdene undertook a multi-year exploration program outlining the Zuun Mod molybdenum-copper deposit and multiple copper and molybdenum prospects, within the outer rim of the 16 kilometer circumference porphyry complex.

In 2011, Minarco-MineConsult (now RPMGlobal) prepared an NI 43-101 resource estimate for a three-kilometre portion of the porphyry system, hosting the Zuun Mod deposit. In total, the Zuun Mod molybdenum-copper deposit resource estimate has a Measured and Indicated ("M&I") resource of 218 million tonnes ("Mt") at an average grade of 0.057% molybdenum ("Mo"), and 0.069% copper ("Cu") at a cut-off grade ("cog") of 0.04% Mo. This equates to 273.5 million pounds ("M lbs") of contained Mo metal and 330.7 M lbs of contained Cu metal. In addition, there is a 138 Mt Inferred Resource at an average grade of 0.052% Mo and 0.065% Cu, equating to a further 157.7 M lbs of contained Mo metal and 197.7 M lbs of contained Cu metal.

Table 1. Zuun Mod Project Mineral Resource Estimate as at June 2011

Cut-off

Grade

Mo% Resource

Category Quantity Mt Mo % Contained Mo

Metal Mlbs Cu % Contained Cu

Metal Mlbs Measured 55 0.050 61.1 0.060 73 Indicated 260 0.050 287 0.065 373.6 0.03% M&I 315 0.050 348.1 0.064 446.6 Inferred 275.4 0.043 262.1 0.061 373.7 Measured 40 0.056 49.5 0.064 57 Indicated 178 0.057 224 0.070 273.7 0.04% M&I 218 0.057 273.5 0.069 330.7 Inferred 138 0.052 157.7 0.065 197.7 Measured 25 0.063 34.5 0.068 37.5 Indicated 105 0.066 152.5 0.074 171 0.05% M&I 130 0.065 187 0.073 208.5 Inferred 64 0.060 85.0 0.067 94.9

Source: NI 43-101 Technical Report, Zuun Mod Porphyry Molybdenum-Copper Project, Minarco-MineConsult, June 2011

Beyond the Zuun Mod Deposit, the broader Khuvyn Khar license hosts several high-potential copper and molybdenum prospects. The Khuvyn Khar prospect, located in the northern portion of the Zuun Mod porphyry complex hosts a large area of disseminated copper mineralization within several kilometres of phyllic and potassic altered quartz monzonite and granodiorite intrusives. Multiple copper mineralized zones have been intersected in wide-spaced drilling, including 34 metres of 1.3% copper and 9.24 g/t silver from 308 to 342 metres (hole ZMD-121). This zone remains untested at depth and to the southwest where it trends under andesite cover.

Khuvyn Khar Molybdenum-Copper Project Strategic Review

Since the discovery of the Khundii Gold District, Erdene has focused on the exploration and development of precious metals deposits in the region. However, in light of recent developments, Erdene has initiated a process to reevaluate the molybdenum and copper potential of the Khuvyn Khar license for the following reasons:

Copper and molybdenum prices have increased significantly over the past year and are forecast to remain strong for the foreseeable future;

China is more reliant on molybdenum imports owing to a 24% increase in internal demand since 2017 and an 8% decline in internal molybdenum supply during the same period; Net molybdenum imports increased to 100 million pounds in 2020 from 1.4 million pounds in 2019; and Molybdenum imports are sourced from South America, Armenia and North America.

Improved infrastructure in southwest Mongolia and northwest China; Expanded blacktop highway near the Mongolian and Chinse borders; and Rail projects have been announced with planned routes in close proximity to the Zuun Mod Project.





About Molybdenum

The global molybdenum market in 2020 totaled 546 million pounds with an estimated value at todays price of US$10.2 billion3. Molybdenum is classified as a minor metal and is a ductile and malleable metallic element primarily used in alloy steels to increase hardness, strength, corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity. Engineering steel, stainless steel and chemicals sectors account for approximately 75% of molybdenum demand.

Molybdenum extraction is highly concentrated with the top five producing countries (China, Chile, United States, Peru and Mexico) accounting for greater than 90% of global production in 2020. North and South America account for 22.9% and 29.3%, respectively, and China is the largest producer accounting for 40% of 2020 global supply.

China is also the largest molybdenum consumer. In 2020, Chinas net imports of molybdenum surged to 100 million pounds from only 1.4 million pounds in 2019. Chinas molybdenum deficit has been sourced from the United States, Peru and Armenia.

About Erdene

Erdene Resource Development Corporation is a Canada-based resource company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of precious and base metals in underexplored and highly prospective Mongolia. Erdenes deposits are located in southwestern Mongolias Edren Terrane, within the Central Asian Orogenic Belt, host to some of the worlds largest gold and copper-gold deposits. The Company has been the leader in exploration in the region over the past decade and is responsible for the discovery of the Khundii Gold District with interests in three mining licenses and two exploration licenses hosting multiple high-grade gold and gold/base metal prospects, one of which is being developed: the 100%-owned Bayan Khundii Gold Project.

Erdene Resource Development Corp. is listed on the Toronto and the Mongolian stock exchanges. Further information is available at www.erdene.com. Important information may be disseminated exclusively via the website; investors should consult the site to access this information.

Qualified Person

Peter Dalton, P.Geo. (Nova Scotia), Senior Geologist for Erdene, is the Qualified Person as that term is defined in National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information regarding Erdene contained herein may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements may include estimates, plans, expectations, opinions, forecasts, projections, guidance or other statements that are not statements of fact. Although Erdene believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Erdene cautions that actual performance will be affected by a number of factors, most of which are beyond its control, and that future events and results may vary substantially from what Erdene currently foresees. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include the ability to obtain required third party approvals, market prices, exploitation and exploration results, continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. The forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The information contained herein is stated as of the current date and is subject to change after that date. The Company does not assume the obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.

NO REGULATORY AUTHORITY HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THE CONTENTS OF THIS RELEASE

Erdene Contact Information

Peter C. Akerley, President and CEO, or

Robert Jenkins, CFO

Figure 1: Zuun Mod Project Location & Eurasian Molybdenum Supply & Demand

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6a5bbdc5-df64-483a-9d18-ba8b252c71bd

Figure 2: Erdene  Gold, Copper & Molybdenum Deposits and Prospects  SE Edren Terrane

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8779cd9b-064f-4147-9e85-a0559682ed39

Figure 3: Khuvyn Khar Porphyry Complex

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f4ff58b9-aa12-40d3-bd75-b0ca8352c688

________________________

1 Khuvyn Khar Project is subject to a net smelter royalty of 1.5%, subject to a buy-down provision.

2 NI 43-101 Technical Report, Zuun Mod Porphyry Molybdenum-Copper Project, Minarco-MineConsult, June 2011

3 Source: Macquarie Group Limited and the London Metal Exchange
If You Go

What: Essex County Superior Court in Newburyport has scheduled a hearing in person or via Zoom on a request for a summary judgment regarding a lawsuit filed by a group of Gloucester residents against the Massachusetts School Building Authority, the state Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs and the city over the construction of a new elementary school on the site of Mattos Field at 11 Webster St.

When: Thursday, July 22, at 2:30 p.m.

Where: Essex County Superior Court, 145 High St. in Newburyport. While anyone is welcome to attend at 145 High St. in Newburyport as long as they are masked, those who wish to listen in on a phone may call the court's public access telephone line at 1-866-775-1288 with the participant code 7856235#.
CASSOPOLIS [mdash] Lorraine Miller, 78, of Cassopolis, Michigan, formerly of Goshen, passed away at 3:45 p.m, on Thursday, July 15, at Spectrum Health Lakeland, St. Joseph, Michigan, with her family by her side. She had been in declining health with a brief illness. She was born on March 28,
Note: We've recently updated our online systems. If you can't login please try resetting your password. You must login with an email address. If you don't have an email associated with your account email circulation@skagitpublishing.com for help creating one.
Albemarle County, Va., 1st Place, Up to 150,000 Population Category

Cabarrus County, N.C., 1st Place, 150,000 to 249,999 Population Category

Future Ready



Hennepin County did quite a bit of forward-thinking, preparing for what is to come in a wide range of areas. Chief among them is the equity work done to reduce disparities among residents. Leading the way in this area was the establishment of an aptly named Disparity Reduction Program, which the county split into seven areas: education, employment, income, housing, transportation, justice and health.



Within this work, Hennepin also developed a new Racial Equity Tool, a metric for ensuring that IT strategic plans are developed through a disparity-reduction lens. Essentially, a large part of what Hennepin County has done to prepare for the future involves building equity into all of its planning, benchmarking and development.



In addition, the county has engaged in some more specific future preparation, including the implementation of electronic signature and notary public capabilities, which is vital for its ongoing shift to becoming a paperless office. The county made similar outward-facing modernization progress this year when it translated many of its in-person services to online forms. This was done in response to the pandemic, yet its also a necessary step that accelerates institution-wide digitization.



There has also been quite a bit of culture-building done with the future in mind in Hennepin, with cybersecurity now a standing agenda item for every meeting of the County Leadership IT Strategy Collaboration Group, which includes a cross-sector membership of major county government stakeholders. Finally, Hennepin is also preparing for the future by investing in people, working to help current IT staff develop new skills to achieve higher positions, while at the same time providing an IT-specific internship for college students, which has led to 27 hired interns dating back to 2016. Now in its second year, the Future Ready Award aims to celebrate a jurisdiction that is completing work to lay a solid foundation for the future, and in 2021 it goes to Hennepin County, Minn.Hennepin County did quite a bit of forward-thinking, preparing for what is to come in a wide range of areas. Chief among them is the equity work done to reduce disparities among residents. Leading the way in this area was the establishment of an aptly named Disparity Reduction Program, which the county split into seven areas: education, employment, income, housing, transportation, justice and health.Within this work, Hennepin also developed a new Racial Equity Tool, a metric for ensuring that IT strategic plans are developed through a disparity-reduction lens. Essentially, a large part of what Hennepin County has done to prepare for the future involves building equity into all of its planning, benchmarking and development.In addition, the county has engaged in some more specific future preparation, including the implementation of electronic signature and notary public capabilities, which is vital for its ongoing shift to becoming a paperless office. The county made similar outward-facing modernization progress this year when it translated many of its in-person services to online forms. This was done in response to the pandemic, yet its also a necessary step that accelerates institution-wide digitization.There has also been quite a bit of culture-building done with the future in mind in Hennepin, with cybersecurity now a standing agenda item for every meeting of the County Leadership IT Strategy Collaboration Group, which includes a cross-sector membership of major county government stakeholders. Finally, Hennepin is also preparing for the future by investing in people, working to help current IT staff develop new skills to achieve higher positions, while at the same time providing an IT-specific internship for college students, which has led to 27 hired interns dating back to 2016.

Marin County, Calif., 1st Place, 250,000 to 499,999 Population Category

Prince Georges County, Md., 1st Place, 500,000 to 999,999 Population Category

King County, Wash., 1st Place, 1 Million or More Population Category

This years 19th annual Digital Counties Survey, from the Center for Digital Government,* was conducted against a unique backdrop, with county governments nationwide facing a second consecutive year of fast-changing, unprecedented challenges and circumstances.Whereas last years surveys were collected and publicized in the earlier months of the pandemic  at a time when what passes for an end was still well out of sight  this years were perhaps completed in slightly rosier times. Just a little bit, as vaccination distribution continues and the country begins to open up. As such, there is almost a pivot evidenced by this years group as compared to last year  a move from response to recovery within much of the work reported.What this has specifically meant for many counties is a continued emphasis on as well as an acceleration of work related to digital equity and broadband. Thats not all, of course. Strong work started before as well as during the pandemic in other areas also continued, but there is definitely a sense in the surveys of new lessons learned, a changed attitude  among all involved with the work  and a desire to make some initiatives started amid crisis permanent.Following is a look at where this years winning counties are at, where they have had their major successes, what some of the biggest remaining challenges are and what theyve learned that will help shape their futures.The ways in which survey respondents invested in broadband and digital equity varied quite a bit. Albemarle County, Va., made one of the more direct commitments to the work, creating an office of broadband to tackle getting residents connected.Mike Culp is now the director of the Albemarle County Broadband Accessibility and Affordability Office, and when discussing the survey, he stressed the importance of the name. It encapsulates an awareness in the county that residents  many of whom are unconnected and in rural areas  may lack the ability to afford high-speed Internet, even if the service is available where they live.With that in mind, the county has hopes that the office can really address the affordability challenges, be it through working with existing electrical co-ops or other means. Another area of focus within this is digital literacy, which means ensuring that residents have the skills they need to use the Internet in meaningful ways that benefit their lives. Culp said the awareness of the importance of this work is something that has really taken hold throughout the county government, especially in the wake of a pandemic that emphasized the importance of being able to access everything from government to health care at home through a computer.In this new often-digital world, Culp said, it seems like the most vulnerable are often the most disconnected.Like the other winners in this years survey, however, digital equity and broadband was far from the only area of success in Albemarles survey. The county also received exemplary marks for work regarding cybersecurity, especially its formalized cybersecurity incident response plan designed to block attacks as well as help during the eventuality of a successful intrusion.Finally, officials in Albemarle are also proud of how their staff have adapted to virtual meetings, with Culp noting they are now in the process of bringing people back to the office, which entails taking steps to not curtail anyones productivity. This could mean creating hoteling situations, hybrid work setups or making moves so that offices mirror home setups in terms of what kind of equipment is available.Were trying to figure out new ways to keep people in that productivity window, Culp said.While all the winners learned new lessons from emergency and crisis response, they also almost uniformly stressed that the priorities that existed before the pandemic still remained, and none more so than cybersecurity.Cybersecurity was one of the primary areas in which Cabarrus County, N.C., excelled. Todd Shanley is the chief information officer for Cabarrus, and he said, as is the case for many jurisdictions, that ransomware is Carbarrus top cybersecurity concern. A significant portion of the work around preventing ransomware attacks involves staff training, with a special focus on why this educational piece is important.If you dont explain the why up front, youre not going to be successful, Shanley said, because it may be taken as theyre just making us do this one more thing.The cybersecurity awareness training being done there is extensive, reaching all members of the government, right up to the Board of Commissioners, who must also undergo prep such as phishing testing.Another area in which Cabarrus excelled is communication, which Shanely attributes to an agency-wide culture led by Mike Downs, the county manager. Under Downs leadership, there is a culture in Cabarrus of sharing and celebrating wins, which is a healthy piece of all successful tech and innovation offices. The countys public information staff has also done a great job of using technology and social channels to communicate information to the public, which continues to be vital as the pivot from response to recovery takes hold.Cabarrus actually has a long list of accomplishments that took place in addition to pandemic response over the past year, including election support, installing a new software package for the child welfare division, and migrating over to a new 911 response platform, among other things. None of which, Shanley is quick to note, would have been possible without a team in the office that stayed diligent and flexible regardless of the situation.The world didnt stop moving, Shanley said. We were here at work, working behind the scenes to make sure things were going on ... the resilience of my team is the thing Im most proud of.Marin County, Calif., just north of San Francisco, saw more than one emergency last year. There was, of course, the pandemic, but the jurisdiction was also ravaged by wildfires.Liza Massey, the chief information officer for Marin County, said these dual tragedies really fostered a sense of togetherness that permeated the entire IT staff, as well as the rest of the county government. In fact, public servants found themselves helping the community in many ways outside of their usual workflows.With COVID we had to go out on the front line. I had employees working at testing centers, housing sites ... carrying around food and other things, as well as helping set up the temporary sites, said Massey, who herself worked for a time in a mass vaccination center, helping to schedule appointments. It was both IT and, really, residential community service.Thats great, of course, but doing those things paved the way for success in the areas of interest captured by the Digital Counties Survey, specifically by fostering great working relationships between IT and the other internal county government departments, Massey said. If there was a challenge for Marin County during the pandemic, Massey said it was encouraging staffers at times to take a step back, to do less and care for themselves when necessary.The partnerships forged in the time of COVID-19 also extended past the pandemic, with IT partnering closely with other county departments on elections, cybersecurity and digital equity, especially in the countys traditionally underserved Canal District, where cross-sector partnerships helped get school students online via free Wi-Fi.Looking ahead, major areas of interest for Marin include continuing the recovery from COVID-19, as well as using technology in ways that can foster racial equity. Massey said they are working on more projects to help close the digital divide, as well as to offer digital literacy training. In addition, they are looking at new data dashboards that can help bring together and share information about racial disparities.When you shine the light on things, they change, Massey said, and technology can make that happen.Wanda Gibson is the chief information officer and director of information technology for Prince Georges County, Md., a role she took after a new tech-savvy administration assumed leadership there, and Gibson attributes much of Prince Georges success in the survey to having support for her departments work at every level of government.This, she recalls, has been especially important for the county during the time of COVID-19, with the county government there needing to make effective decisions regarding everything from how best to get staffers set up to work from home to managing federal relief. This extends to getting relief funds to the community as well. Tech was a major factor in connecting the relief funds with those who needed them most via tactical quick application methods.One of the governing philosophies for IT through all of this was that they needed to make sure their constituents  both inside and outside the local government  had what they needed to thrive.In addition, Prince Georges has been able to continue making progress with work underway independent of COVID-19. This includes a slate of essential if non-glamorous IT projects, such as turning over to a new 311 platform, re-engineering how the countys website works on the back end and continuing to digitize old paper-based processes, among other achievements.How we did it? I cannot say, Gibson said, other than through a very dedicated, public-service-oriented IT staff with good partners.The county also continued to build out its cybersecurity infrastructure by hiring a CISO, a high-level position designed to have one person out in front of these efforts. In addition, there has been a concentrated effort to learn from some high-profile national cybersecurity incidents. This includes getting a handle on vulnerabilities related to the Internet of Things, a priority emphasized in the lesson of the pipeline hack. Its a good lesson, too, with jurisdictions now relying on everything from drones to digitized water systems.King County, Wash., has long been at the forefront of county gov tech, putting forth an ambitious slate of priorities. It was also one of the best examples in the survey of both recovery from and response to the pandemic.In the service of this, King Countys tech and innovation staff played a major role by supporting mass vaccination sites, as well as rental and eviction programs, with tech. As was the case with many jurisdictions, a new priority also emerged in the county to get as many residents as possible connected to the Internet and using it in meaningful ways, bolstering digital equity work. In fact, King County specifically offered a number of new broadband grants and also created a digital equity dashboard, both of which are major accomplishments in the area of digital inclusion.Digital equity is extremely important, said Tanya Hannah , King Countys chief information officer and director of information technology. The county released in 2020 our broadband survey that really looked at all parts of the county, including who is connected, who is not and what are the barriers that prevent individuals from participating in a digital economy.This has extended to see the county now working with a number of community-based organizations to promote digital literacy, too. This wide-spanning effort has done a lot, including working with community colleges and area nonprofit organizations around shared challenges of digital literacy, access to devices, affordability and skills training.This is all in addition to a number of worthwhile and necessary ongoing projects, including working with data, modernizing processes, helping internal departments develop new management systems and more.Another result of the pandemic is an increasingly strong relationship with the state, particularly in the area of cybersecurity. King County is working with Washingtons CISO as well as with other counties to prepare the entire region to protect itself from cyber threats. Moving forward, Hannah said she expects this sort of collaboration between larger counties and states to remain a priority.The pandemic has shown that were better together, she said.To read about all winners in this years Digital Counties Survey:Government Technology's
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Housing

Making Grand Haven affordable

Jared Leatzow / Tribune photo / Jared Leatzow A bulldozer moves some dirt at the site of the future Robinson Landing subdivision, near the Grand Haven Memorial Airport. Property developer Michigan Community Capital is working with the newly established Community Land Trust to provide affordable housing for people who otherwise couldnt afford to live in Grand Haven.

The new Community Land Trust (CLT) seeks to keep housing affordable for people wishing to live in Grand Haven.

The trusts first big development project is currently underway with the construction of the Robinson Landing subdivision off Comstock Street, near the city airport. To counteract the negative stigma of affordable housing, the subdivision will include a mixture of both land trust and non-land trust homes.

Robinson Landing is being developed by Michigan Community Capital, which is estimated to wrap up construction on the first round of homes in January 2022. There will be 15 homes ready for move-in at that time, with eight homes being on CLT land.

The citys neighborhood development coordinator, Rhonda Kleyn, said there are five purchase agreements, which basically are under contract but arent technically sold because their homes havent yet been built.

The way a land trust works, as explained by Assistant City Manager Ashley Latsch, is the land underneath a home is leased from the CLT by the homeowner. But the homeowner would own the home built on top of the land.

The lease fee for the land is $30 a month, and the homeowner is not limited much in how they can use the land. But they still have to abide by the citys code of ordinances, and are not allowed to rent the property as a short-term rental such as with Airbnb.

The CLT was established by the city, but the trust is considered to be an independent entity. It is currently in the process of becoming a nonprofit organization.

So, currently, we are at the state of creating articles of incorporation and filing our 501(c)(3) status, Latsch said. We will eventually be official as a Community Land Trust by the time the first Robinson Landing home is signed off on.

Although, the CLT is just now coming into its own, its origin date backs three years.

In 2018, at the City Councils direction, we created an Affordable Housing Task Force that really worked with a number of community representatives to identify actionable goals that the city could work toward to help in the realm of attainable housing, Latsch said.

Kleyn said the task force decided on three ideals.

One of them was people that work here should be able to afford to live here, she said. As people age, they should be able to age in place, and not have to leave the community.

Not everyone can apply for a CLT home. To qualify, a person has to meet the following requirements:

They must make 80 percent of the areas median income.

The home must be their principal residence.

They must attend a number of homebuyer education courses through the citys Neighborhood Housing Services.

They must be able to get a mortgage from a bank.

According to data provided by the CLT, seven out of 10 shared-equity homeowners are also first-time buyers, and 99 percent avoid foreclosures. Six out of 10 use the equity they earn to eventually purchase a non-land trust home.

Currently, the CLT has received 160 applications for the available land trust homes. Theyve since stopped accepting applications.

For more information, visit the developments website at robinsonlandingmi.com.
Ferrari will "look at" Volkswagen brands Audi and Porsche's suggestions for the future of the engine regulations in Formula 1.

After the recent meeting in Austria, it emerged that the German luxury carmakers - who are eyeing F1's plans regarding the new engine rules for 2025-2026 - are keen on switching to four-cylinder, all-wheel drive technology.

"That is a solution we can look at," said Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto, amid suggestions the Maranello team is more open than its rival engine makers when it comes to the prospect of major technology changes.

"What we cannot forget is that sustainability and the environment are number one," Binotto told Corriere dello Sport newspaper.

"We mustn't lose sight of that."

The Italian admitted that F1 will need to find a "compromise" solution between the interests of the existing competitors and potential newcomers like the VW duo.

"The compromise that will be reached must balance ethical aspects, innovation and costs," said Binotto.

He said Ferrari's main priority is that the sport remains focused on its 'hybrid' credentials, rather than moving its sights more radically to electrification.

"We have made Ferrari's position in this discussion clear," said Binotto.

"Looking at the future of engines, we must act as forerunners. If the emphasis is on electric driving worldwide, hybrid engines will remain the norm for Ferrari."

(GMM)
Gunther Steiner has played down reports that Haas could be set to lose Mick Schumacher.

It has been reported that, despite ever-closer ties between Haas and Ferrari, the fabled Italian marque might see Alfa Romeo as a better place for Schumacher to learn the ropes in Formula 1.

Indeed, the Hinwil based team is also maintaining its Ferrari ties into 2022 and beyond, as a "multi-year" extension to the naming deal between Sauber and Alfa Romeo was announced on Wednesday.

At the same time, Kimi Raikkonen's seat looks uncertain for 2022.

"Everyone likes Kimi," former driver Marc Surer told Blick newspaper. "He still has one of the largest fan bases.

"But his time has simply run out."

So with a Schumacher-Antonio Giovinazzi pairing at Alfa Romeo next year looking possible, team boss Frederic Vasseur insisted: "We are in no hurry."

According to Haas' Steiner, however, it's all just "rumours".

"This is Formula 1, remember," he told RTL reporter Felix Gorner.

"At the moment it looks like we will have the same driver pairing next year. We still have to clarify a few details, but everything else is clear," Steiner added.

The Haas team boss thinks staying at Haas is also the best thing for 22-year-old Schumacher, who is the son of F1 legend Michael.

"It is important for Mick to stay in the same team," Steiner insisted. "To give him a bit of stability.

"He knows our people now, our processes. I think he also likes to be part of our team.

"That's why there's no reason why he won't be with us, and I think it's the same from his side."

Steiner also thinks Haas may be in a position to go wheel-to-wheel with Alfa Romeo next year.

"We'll have a better car than now," he said. "How good, I don't know yet. But I'm confident that it will be ok.

"At the moment, nothing points against us being as good or better than Alfa Romeo. But I'm sure they'll be working hard on it too."

(GMM)
Universal Hydrogen (earlier post) has signed LOIs with Icelandair Group (Iceland), Air Nostrum (Spain), and Ravn Air (Alaska) for aftermarket conversion of aircraft to hydrogen propulsion and for the supply of green hydrogen fuel using Universal Hydrogens modular capsules.





Rendering of regional airplane with conversion kit and fuel capsules.

Icelandair. Universal Hydrogen signed a letter of intent (LOI) with Icelandair Group under which Icelandair and Universal Hydrogen will pursue the implementation of green hydrogen as a propellant for Icelandairs domestic aircraft fleet.

Universal Hydrogen is enabling this transformation with its aftermarket hydrogen conversion kit for regional aircraft, as well as its fuel distribution system based on modular hydrogen capsule technology.

For Universal Hydrogen and Icelandair, this LOI is the first step of an ambitious multilateral initiative, which requires working with Icelandic hydrogen producers, transportation companies, and airports. In a country with an electricity network powered by renewable energy, this represents an opportunity to decarbonize one of the most challenging industriesaviation.

Given a positive outcome of the project and upon completion of the Dash 8 conversions of the Icelandair domestic fleet, Universal Hydrogen and Icelandair would enter into a long-term fuel services contract to provide cost-effective green hydrogen for Icelandairs fleet at scale. The net outcome of this relationship is to realize operational efficiencies as sustainability objectives are achieved.

Air Nostrum. Under the terms of the LOI with Air Nostrum, a regional airline based in Valencia, Spain, Air Nostrum would purchase eleven of Universal Hydrogens turboprop conversion kits for use across its existing and future fleet. These kits encompass a hydrogen fuel cell and electric motor that replaces the aircrafts existing turboprop engine. They also provide for compatibility with Universal Hydrogens modular hydrogen capsule technology that allows for the delivery of hydrogen to any airport without any purpose-built infrastructure.

Alongside the aircraft conversions, Universal Hydrogen would become Air Nostrums long-term green hydrogen service provider. The conversion of Air Nostrums turboprop fleet to a Universal Hydrogen-powered, zero-carbon configuration would be concluded after an operational evaluation of the design and performance. The aircraft are expected to have equivalent or better unit economics compared to the existing fleet.

Ravn Air. Under the terms of this LOI, Ravn is committed to purchasing five of Universal Hydrogens conversion kits that will integrate the companys modular hydrogen capsule technology and hydrogen powertrain into Ravns growing regional turboprop fleet. In a transportation segment that is critical to the way of life in Alaska, the conversions will provide a zero-carbon solution for both passenger and cargo services.
Woven Planet Holdings, Inc., a subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation, has acquired CARMERA, Inc., a US-based spatial AI company, which specializes in bringing next-generation road intelligence to automated mobility at scale. This is the second major deal for Woven Planet in North America, following the April 2021 announcement to acquire Level 5, the self-driving division of Lyft.

Once the deal is closed, the CARMERA team will report into the Automated Mapping Platform (AMP) organization of Woven Alpha. Woven Alpha focuses on exploring new strategic areas for business expansion and incubates several innovative projects such as Woven City and Arene, which is Woven Planets open software platform. AMP is a connected crowdsourced software platform that supports the creation, development and distribution of high definition (HD) mapsa key enabler for smart and safe automated mobility.

The Woven Alpha team plans to develop AMP to become the most globally comprehensive road and lane network HD map platform, enabling high-precision localization support to automated vehicles. The acquisition of CARMERA will accelerate AMPs shift from the R&D stage to the next phase of commercialization by bolstering the platforms engineering team with top experts in the development of HD maps. In addition, it will provide access to CARMERAs sophisticated map update, change management and IoT sensing technology.

Together, the teams will tap into CARMERAs ability to successfully update HD maps from crowdsourced, camera-based inputsa significantly cheaper and faster approach than traditional methods. This will strengthen AMPs ability to serve a comprehensive set of road classes and features, reflecting changes in lane markings, traffic signals, signs and more in near real-time, and support its future multi-regional commercial launch.

CARMERA will join Woven Planet Group as a wholly-owned subsidiary, expanding the companys footprint beyond its Tokyo headquarters by adding New York and Seattle offices to its planned offices in Silicon Valley and London.





Lane-level object detection in downtown Detroit, part of an earlier CARMERA and TRI-AD mapping initiative.

An earlier partnership between Woven Planet under its predecessor organization Toyota Research institute - Advanced Development, Inc. and CARMERA in Tokyo, Detroit and Ann Arbor, Michigan, laid the groundwork for this deal. Woven Planet and CARMERA participated in collaborative projects in 2018, 2019 and 2020, which proved the companies can successfully develop and update HD maps from commodity, device-agnostic sources, such as commercially available dashboard-mounted cameras.
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NEW BRITAIN  Connecticut utility regulators largely upheld millions of dollars in fines against Eversource Energy and The United Illuminating Co. for the two electric distribution companies handling of power restoration in the aftermath of last years Tropical Storm Isaias.

The final ruling by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority Wednesday imposed a $29 million fine against Eversource and $1.17 million against The United Illuminating Co.

The original ruling in the case was handed down May 6. At that time, PURA fined Eversource $30 million in civil penalties, the maximum allowed under state law, and fined UI a total of $2.1 million.

It wasnt immediately clear Wednesday why PURA commissioners chose to slightly reduce the fines against the two companies. But in issuing the agencys ruling, PURA Chairwoman Marissa Gillett said in a statement that if state law hadnt capped the amount that Eversource could be fined, the Authority would have assessed a penalty of $98.4 million.

State Attorney General William Tong said the fine against Eversource was warranted for its failure to meet its obligations to ratepayers in the aftermath of Isaias last year. Eversource has much work to do to regain our trust, and we will be holding them accountable at every step along the way, Tong said.

Eversource failed its customers and put Connecticut families at risk, he said. Their response to Tropical Storm Isaias was unacceptable, and PURA is right to impose severe penalties. This penalty will be paid rightfully by the company and its shareholders  not ratepayers.

Regulators ruling states explicitly that the fines are to be paid by the companies and not their customers.

Mitch Gross, an Eversource spokesman, said the company hasnt decided whether to appeal Wednesdays decision.

Time and time again our employees work tirelessly to restore power as quickly as possible and support our customers and communities when outages occur, Gross said. We cannot control the weather, or the damage that is caused by falling trees and vegetation when storm damage occurs. Our focus now is on the future and assuring that our emergency response efforts are intensive and that our employees are safe and secure in doing their jobs on behalf of our customers and communities.

Susan Millerick, a UI spokeswoman, said the company was pleased that PURA gave careful consideration of the evidence we presented to them last month and we appreciate their decision to decrease the penalty levied.

Well continue working closely with PURA toward our shared goals of safe, affordable and reliable service for our customers, Millerick said.

Eversource and UI had filed appeals in early June regarding an element of PURAs May draft decision, which, in addition to the fines, reduced the utilities return on investment. In Eversources complaint, filed as part of the companys appeal, attorneys for the utility noted that PURA reduced the utilitys return on equity by 90 basis points for an indefinite period of time, which translates into an ongoing financial penalty of roughly $31 million per year.

UIs return on investment was reduced by 15 basis points. Both penalties remain intact, said Joe Cooper, a PURA spokesman.

Editors note: This story has been updated to correct the name of PURA Chairwoman Marissa Gillett.

luther.turmelle@hearstmediact.com
There are many startling moments in Roadrunner, Morgan Nevilles rich and moving documentary about the singular culinary storyteller Anthony Bourdain, who tragically took his life at the age of 61.

Heres just one that sticks out: a quick scene with a therapist, in Argentina. As Bourdain lies on her couch, cameras rolling for an episode of his show, he describes some frightening psychological urges he has. She asks him if he wants to change, and to feel differently. He replies: I suspect its too late.

We never learn here why Bourdain wanted to film what seems a genuine therapy session. But it fits in perfectly with the portrait Neville paints of a man who couldnt resist being anything but painfully honest, and painfully public, even when it took him down some dark paths.

Its also an example of just how much material Neville had to work with. Between Bourdains own recordings and voiceovers, copious footage  much never seen  from production of his TV travelogues, and countless home movies and photos, it comes to feel like Bourdain himself is narrating his life story. And its hard to shake the feeling he already knows what happens, especially when he quips early on: Heres a little pre-emptive truth-telling: theres no happy ending.

Neville dispenses quickly with the early stuff  Bourdain dropping out of college, washing dishes in Cape Cod  even his years as chef at Manhattans Brasserie Les Halles. It really starts at age 44, when Kitchen Confidential, his wickedly funny memoir about the underbelly of the restaurant world, catapults him into stardom and a life as a globetrotting raconteur bold enough to swallow a still-beating cobra heart or a sheeps testicle.

The transformation is dizzying: People are shouting to Bourdain in the streets. Hes sitting down with Letterman, and with Oprah. Theyre saying Brad Pitt wants to play him. It was like he died and was reborn, says his brother, Chris Bourdain.

In footage from his various shows, which culminated with Parts Unknown on CNN, we accompany Bourdain to an idyllic lunch in Provence with chef-buddy Eric Ripert, or to Vietnam, where he guzzles that cobra heart. Or to Haiti, where an episode on local cuisine leads to a chaotic scene of hungry youths seeking food. In a 2006 episode of No Reservations shot in Beirut, violence flares up between Israel and Hezbollah, and the crew is left to lounge by a pool for days while conflict rages. I had begun to believe the dinner table was the great leveler, Bourdain says. Now Im not so sure.

A casualty of Bourdains outsized fame is his first marriage. Nancy Putkoski doesnt speak to Neville, but Bourdains second wife does -- Ottavia Busia, with whom he shared a daughter. Her tearful regret at not having kept a closer eye on him once their marriage was over is one of the more moving moments of the film, as is the frank commentary -- loving, sad and angry all at once -- from celebrity chef David Chang. The tears flow copiously in this film, a credit to Nevilles vibrant filmmaking. Chang also has one of the catchiest lines about his friend: It was almost never about food. It was about Tony learning to be a better person.

The first two-thirds are fittingly exhilarating. Its hard not to be jealous of a man who freely admitted he had the best job in the world: If Im not happy, its a failure of imagination, he once told The New Yorker magazine.

But if imagination was all it took to be happy, this film makes clear, Bourdain would likely be with us today.

The final act of Roadrunner is infused with a feeling of dread. Bourdain had become involved with Italian actor Asia Argento, a key accuser of Harvey Weinstein. She directed an episode of his Parts Unknown in Hong Kong, and we literally watch Bourdain falling in love. We also hear how devastated he was when a tabloid published pictures of her with another man, shortly before his death during filming in eastern France.

Its clear that some of Bourdains co-workers felt the relationship with Argento sent Bourdain into a tailspin that led to his death  even though one of them points out, rightly of course, that Tony did this. Its unfortunate that the film does not include Argentos own voice here.

But one cannot fault Roadrunner for not coming up with clear answers. There rarely are clear answers, anyway, and this film seems to want to be about a life, not a death. A fascinating life, parts of which will forever remain unknown.

Roadrunner, a Focus Features release, has been rated R by the Motion Picture Association of America for language throughout. Running time: 118 minutes. Three stars out of four.

___

MPAA definition of R: Restricted. Under 17 requires parent or adult guardian.
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP)  One person who went missing from a Colorado River rafting trip in the Grand Canyon during a flash flood was found dead Thursday in frigid water while a second person was found alive, a park spokeswoman said.

The flood was part of monsoon storms that have inundated Arizona this week, including in Flagstaff where city streets were left a muddy mess as water mixed with logs and debris swept through. Cleanup was underway Thursday with the threat of more rain looming.

At the Grand Canyon, a torrent of water rushed through a slot canyon and washed away the camp where two commercial rafts with 30 passengers pulled off the river to stay Wednesday evening, said Grand Canyon spokeswoman Joelle Baird.

Authorities initially believed that two people had been swept into the river and launched a search by air, ground and water to find them. One was found at the camp that the group had abandoned to seek a safer place to sleep, Baird said. The other was found dead in the water next to the camp that flooded, she said.

The motorized trip operated by Arizona Raft Adventures was scheduled to last more than a week. A company spokeswoman on Thursday referred questions to John Dillon, the executive director of the Grand Canyon River Outfitters Association that represents the outfitters permitted in the canyon.

Dillon said he hasn't yet spoken to company officials, one of whom is on another trip on the river. He said while the outfitters were pleased to hear one rafter was found, they're saddened by the death of the other.

Our hearts our broken that people on the trip lost somebody, people at home lost somebody, he said. That matters more than anything else.

A park helicopter took two paramedics to the river late Wednesday to treat and stabilize the injured rafters after receiving a satellite phone call from someone on the trip asking for help. Seven passengers who were injured were airlifted out of the canyon, Baird said. She wasn't sure of the extent of their injuries.

Baird said the park will help the other rafters who want to cut their trip short get off the river, she said.

The flood hit the camp set up about 40 miles (64 kilometers) downstream from where the rafts launched at Lees Ferry near the Arizona-Utah state line, turning the normally greenish-colored river into a muddy brown. Forecasters had issued a flash flood watch for the area Wednesday, but it's not clear whether the rafting guides were aware.

Radar showed about an inch (2.5 centimeters) of rain along that stretch of the Colorado River, according to the National Weather Service.

Park officials did not immediately release the name of the rafter who died. At least two other people have died this year on Grand Canyon rafting trips that draw tens of thousands of tourists, locals and researchers annually.

James Crocker, 63, of Colorado died after he fell into the river at the top of a rapid in June. Members of his private boating groups pulled him out of the water but couldn't revive him.

Deborah Ellis, 60, of Idaho died after the commercial raft she was on hit rapids and flipped in late April. An autopsy report released to The Associated Press in response to a public records request determined she drowned.

The entire Southwest, which has been desperate for rain after two years of dismal monsoon activity, has been hammered lately with storms. More rain is in the forecast.

In Tucson, a fire department swift water team rescued a father and his two daughters from the roof of their vehicle Wednesday after they drove into a usually dry wash and got stranded in the floodwaters, said Golder Ranch Fire District spokesman Capt. Adam Jarrold.

Our message, telling everybody, be patient, especially here in the desert, he said. The water comes up quick, but it also goes away quick.

Farther north in Flagstaff, floodwaters have inundated communities in the shadow of a mountain that burned in 2019 and adjacent neighborhoods, sending at least one vehicle floating down a city street. Residents had been somewhat prepared for a major flood with sandbags around their homes and concrete barriers to redirect water. Still, many of them have been digging out.

Flagstaff and Coconino County declared a state of emergency over the monsoon flooding, opening up funding and allowing officials to request state assistance, according to a news release.

Flagstaff likely can recoup some of the costs for responding to and repairing flood damage related to wildfires under a recent state law. Cities also can be reimbursed for providing emergency shelter and support for people who are displaced, but it does not allow spending to repair individual homes.

The threat of flash flooding will remain through next week, the National Weather Service said, though the coverage will be more scattered than widespread.

The moisture is not going anywhere, and it will heat up as well, so those are perfect ingredients for thunderstorms in the afternoon and evenings in Arizona, said Evan LaGuardia, a meteorologist in Flagstaff.

___

Associated Press writers Bob Christie and Paul Davenport in Phoenix contributed to this report.
BERLIN (AP)  More than 60 people have died and dozens were missing Thursday as severe flooding in Germany and Belgium turned streams and streets into raging torrents that swept away cars and caused houses to collapse.

Among those killed were nine residents of an assisted living facility for people with disabilities and two firefighters involved in rescue efforts across the region.

I grieve for those who have lost their lives in this disaster, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said during a visit to Washington, expressing shock at the scope of the flooding.

Speaking alongside U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House, Merkel said her thoughts were with all those who had lost loved ones or were still searching for them.

I fear the full extent of this tragedy will only be seen in the coming days," she said.

Biden likewise paid his condolences for the devastating loss of life and the destruction due to the flooding.

Our hearts go out to the families whove lost loved ones, he said.

Authorities said at least 30 people died in North Rhine-Westphalia state and 28 in neighboring Rhineland-Palatinate to the south. Belgian media reported eight deaths in that country.

Recent storms across parts of western Europe made rivers and reservoirs burst their banks, triggering flash floods overnight after the saturated soil couldnt absorb any more water.

Among the worst-hit German villages was Schuld, where several homes collapsed and dozens of people remained unaccounted for.

Rescue operations were hampered by blocked roads and phone and internet outages across the Eifel, a volcanic region of rolling hills and small valleys. Some villages were reduced to rubble as old brick and timber houses couldn't withstand the sudden rush of water, often carrying trees and other debris as it gushed through narrow streets.

Karl-Heinz Grimm, who had come to help his parents in Schuld, said he had never seen the small Ahr River surge in such a deadly torrent.

"This night, it was like madness, he said.

Dozens of people had to be rescued from the roofs of their houses with inflatable boats and helicopters. Hundreds of soldiers were deployed to assist in the rescue efforts.

There are people dead, there are people missing, there are many who are still in danger, the governor of Rhineland-Palatinate state, Malu Dreyer, told the regional parliament. We have never seen such a disaster. Its really devastating.

The 52nd Civil Engineer squadron and several volunteers from the U.S. air base at Spangdahlem filled and distributed hundreds of sandbags to help protect homes and businesses in the area, the U.S. European Command said.

In Belgium, the Vesdre River spilled over its banks and sent water churning through the streets of Pepinster, near Liege, where a rescue operation by firefighters went wrong when a small boat capsized and three elderly people disappeared.

Unfortunately, they were quickly engulfed, said Mayor Philippe Godin. I fear they are dead.

In Verviers, the prosecutors office said several bodies had been found but could not confirm local media reports that four people were killed there.

In Liege, a city of 200,000, the Meuse River overflowed its banks Thursday and the mayor asked people living nearby to move to higher ground.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pledged to help, and Pope Francis sent condolences, with his office saying the pontiff was praying for those injured and missing, as well as those who have lost their livelihoods.

The full extent of the damage was still unclear, with many villages cut off by floods and landslides that made roads impassable. Many of the dead were only discovered after floodwaters receded.

Authorities in the Rhine-Sieg county south of Cologne ordered the evacuation of several villages below the Steinbach reservoir amid fears a dam could break.

Armin Laschet, the governor of North-Rhine Westphalia state, paid tribute to two firefighters who died and pledged swift help.

We don't know the extent of the damage yet, but we won't leave the communities, the people affected alone, he said during a visit to the city of the flood-hit city of Hagen.

Laschet, a conservative who is running to succeed Merkel as chancellor in this fall's election, said the unusually heavy storms and an earlier heat wave could be linked to climate change. Political opponents have criticized Laschet, the son of a miner, for supporting the region's coal industry and hampering the expansion of wind power during his tenure.

Stefan Rahmstorf, a professor of ocean physics at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, said it was unclear whether the extreme rainfall seen in Germany was a direct result of planetary warming.

But one can state that such events are becoming more frequent due to global warming, he told The Associated Press, noting that warmer air can absorb more water vapor that eventually falls as rain.

The increase in heavy rain and decrease in days with weak rain is now also clearly seen in observational data, especially in the mid-northern latitudes, which includes Germany, Rahmstorf said.

The weakening of the summer circulation of the atmosphere, causing longer-lasting weather patterns such as heat waves or continuous rain, might also play a role, he added.

Rainfall eased later Thursday across Germany, although water levels on the Mosel and Rhine rivers were expected to continue rising.

In the Netherlands, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima visited the hard-hit Dutch town of Valkenburg on Thursday evening to support residents and emergency services. Flooding turned the main street into a torrent of brown water, inundating homes and businesses.

The Dutch government sent about 70 troops to the southern province of Limburg late Wednesday to help with evacuations and filling sandbags.

Thousands of people in the city of Maastricht and villages along the Maas River were ordered to evacuate Thursday evening amid threats of flooding, and centers were set up to house them. The Maas is the Dutch name for the Meuse River.

In northeastern France, heavy rains flooded vegetable fields, many homes and a World War I museum in Romagne-sous-Montfaucon.

The Aire River rose to its highest levels in 30 years in some areas, according to the LEst Republicain newspaper.

The equivalent of two months of rain has fallen over two days, according to the French national weather service, with flood warnings issued for 10 regions. No injuries or deaths have been reported, but forecasters warned of mudslides and more rain Friday.

__

Associated Press writers Raf Casert in Brussels; Angela Charlton in Paris; Frances D'Emilio in Rome; and Mike Corder in The Hague contributed to this report.
PHOENIX (AP)  Arizona's largest county approved nearly $3 million Wednesday for new vote-counting machines to replace those used in the 2020 election, which were given to legislative Republicans for a partisan review of the results.

The GOP-controlled Maricopa County Board of Supervisors said the machines were compromised because they were in the control of firms not accredited to handle election equipment. Secretary of State Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, had said she would seek to decertify the machines if the county planned to use them again.

State Senate Republicans used their subpoena power to take control of Maricopa County's voting machines after former President Donald Trump claimed without evidence that the 2020 election was rigged against him in Arizona and other battleground states.

The Senate hired Cyber Ninjas, a small cybersecurity consulting firm led by a Trump supporter who has spread conspiracy theories backing Trump's false claims of fraud, to recount all 2.1 million ballots and forensically review voting machines, servers and other data. The firm had no prior experience in elections, and experts in election administration say it's not following reliable procedures.

The state Senate scheduled a hearing Thursday with Cyber Ninjas CEO Doug Logan and others involved in the audit. Senate President Karen Fann said they won't release findings but will discuss items they need more documentation on. The auditors have complained that the county has not turned over administrative passwords to vote-counting machines or internet routers from the elections office.

County officials say they don't have administrative passwords and handing over routers would pose a security risk.

There is no constitutional mechanism for President Joe Biden's victory to be overturned, but Trump and many of his supporters hope the Arizona audit will support his fraud claims and lead to similar reviews elsewhere.

The county had leased vote-counting machines from Dominion Voting Systems Inc. through 2022. It agreed to pay $2.8 million for Dominion to supply new machines for the 2022 midterm elections and smaller local contests. That includes 385 precinct tabulators, which count ballots as they're turned in at polling places; nine central tabulators, which primarily count early ballots; two servers; and other workstations.

The county's has no choice but to buy new machines because its lease agreement requires it to return the machines in working order, said Steve Chucri, a Republican supervisor. It can't return decertified machines, he said.

County officials said they will still seek bids as planned for a new vote-counting contract after 2022.

Fann, the Senate president, signed a contract agreeing to cover any costs to the county from giving up the machines. County officials hinted at billing the Senate but did not explicitly address it.

I think it is fundamentally unfair for the taxpayers of Maricopa County to be responsible for footing this bill, said Bill Gates, a Republican supervisor.

In the partisan audit, the hand-count of ballots, which focused on tallying votes in the races for president and U.S. Senate, has wrapped up. Auditors this week plan to use machines to recount the number of ballots that were turned in. Senate President Karen Fann has said the Cyber Ninjas tally of votes did not match the county's official total, but she has not said how far apart they are.

Meanwhile, scrutiny of the audit is intensifying. The U.S. House Oversight and Reform Committee sent a letter Wednesday to Logan, the Cyber Ninjas CEO, demanding materials including financial records and communications with Trump, several of his allies and prominent supporters of stop the steal conspiracy theories.

The Committee is seeking to determine whether the privately funded audit conducted by your company in Arizona protects the right to vote or is instead an effort to promote baseless conspiracy theories, undermine confidence in Americas elections, and reverse the result of a free and fair election for partisan gain, wrote Democratic Reps. Carolyn Maloney of New York, the committee chairwoman, and Jamie Raskin of Maryland, chairman of the Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties.

___

Associated Press writer Bob Christie contributed.
MIAMI (AP)  Some Black Lives Matters activists say a double standard is being used as people blocked busy roadways in Florida this week in support of antigovernment demonstrations in Cuba, with limited action taken by law enforcement despite a new law enhancing penalties against disruptions by protesters.

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into Florida law a measure earlier this year that boosts penalties against demonstrators who turn violent and creates new criminal penalties for those who organize demonstrations that get out of hand. Provisions of the law also make it a felony to block some roadways and give immunity to people who drive through protesters blocking a road.

The bill was introduced after last summer's protests for racial justice during which some Black Lives Matter protesters were met by police with tear gas and arrests when they took to the streets for days at a time.

Demonstrators on Tuesday in Miami, Tampa and Orlando temporarily blocked busy roads, chanting support for the Cubans who had taken to the streets in the communist nation Sunday to air grievances about poor economic conditions and other issues.

When they protest for regime change, which aligns with the governors political viewpoint ... you see no enforcement from law enforcement, said Michael Sampson, who co-founded the Jacksonville Community Action Committee, one of many groups that sprung up under the banner of the Black Lives Matter movement.

I think its just downright hypocrisy were seeing from the governor, and even law enforcement in how theyre applying this law. It goes to show how our fears that we had earlier  that it will be used against Black people fighting for equal rights," he added.

On Wednesday, the ACLU of Florida filed a motion in federal court in Tallahassee to block the law immediately, asserting that it could criminalize peaceful protests and shield people who injure protesters in roadways from civil penalties, as well as cast a chilling effect on peaceable protests.

The ACLU had filed a lawsuit on behalf of several Black-led organizations in May seeking to overturn the new law on grounds it violates the First Amendment and targets certain racial justice advocacy groups.

During a visit to Miami on Tuesday, DeSantis said the demonstrations in South Florida were fundamentally different than what we saw last summer."

The governor's spokesperson, Christina Pushaw, took to her personal Twitter account Wednesday bashing the Left and aligned corporate media, asserting that they love authoritarianism.

Therefore, they are FURIOUS that the Governor of Florida didnt personally drive 500 miles down the state to arrest people for protesting (not rioting) against the communist regime in Cuba, she tweeted.

In an email to The Associated Press, Pushaw said the governor had signed the law to empower law enforcement to protect and serve the people of Florida.

The legislation protects First Amendment freedoms, while ensuring that law enforcement professionals are empowered to use their discretion to maintain public safety, Pushaw said. The Governor has always urged all Floridians exercising their right to protest, to make their voices heard peacefully and lawfully.

Pushaw pointed out that blocking roadways without a permit was illegal long before the new law, and law enforcement agencies around the state have discretion to enforce the law in a way to ensure public safety.

Waving Cuban flags, hundreds of protesters on Wednesday demonstrated at a busy intersection outside one of Miamis most famous Cuban restaurants, Versailles. Miami spokesman John Heffernan confirmed that the city approved a permit to close down five blocks along Calle Ocho in the Little Havana neighborhood Wednesday. Many of the protesters dispersed, though, when it started raining at the start of the demonstration.
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP)  The Walt Disney Co. said Thursday it planned to build a new regional campus in central Florida to house at least 2,000 professional employees who will be relocating from Southern California to work in digital technology, finance and product development.

In a letter to employees, Josh D'Amaro, chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, said the move would allow creative and business teams to be better integrated. The company already has a theme park resort, Walt Disney World, that is the size of the city of San Francisco, located outside Orlando, Florida.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Kentucky:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Kentucky is one of several states that enacted a moratorium last year halting eviction proceedings. The measure was extended by Gov. Andy Beshear earlier this year to match the original expiration date of the CDC moratorium, June 30. The state is not extending its moratorium through July 31, but the governor's office stressed that the federal moratorium will still be in effect.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Kentucky has received federal funding of about $297 million to help tenants with outstanding rent and utility payments. The money can go toward 15 months of rent and other expenses. So far, the state has issued about 5,500 payments totaling about $20 million, though those numbers don't include the state's two largest metro areas, Lexington and Louisville.

In June, Gov. Beshear added nearly $39 million in rental relief from the states federal funds for those two cities. A federal funding formula left the two metro areas with less funding than expected. Beshear said the payouts are picking up as the state approaches the end of the moratorium. About $2 million in payments went out the second week of June, Beshear said.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Evictions in Kentucky have been on hold since March 16, 2020, when the Kentucky Supreme Court halted new proceedings. That did not include evictions already proceeding through the courts. Last year in Kentucky's largest city, there were 6,481 eviction filings from January to November. That was a 62% decline from 2019, according to a University of Louisville report.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Kentucky traditionally has rental prices below the national average. In its largest city, as of May, the median monthly rent in the Louisville metro area had risen 7% over the past year to $868, according to a report released June 16 by Realtor.com. Median rents for a two-bedroom apartment increased 13.7% to $1,120. That's compared to a national median monthly rent of $1,527, an increase of 5.5% from the previous year.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Kentucky housing officials say its difficult to predict how the expiration of the eviction moratorium will impact homelessness, but attorney Ben Carter with the Kentucky Equal Justice Center said he didnt expect a surge. He said Kentucky has enough funding for the first time in the states history to help anyone who doesnt have enough money to pay rent. He said as long as the rental assistance funding is distributed, there should not be a big rise in homelessness. Census data showed 24,002 out of 57,642 renters in the state were concerned that they could be evicted over the next two months.
NEW HAVEN  As the virulent Delta variant of COVID-19 continues to make headway in Connecticut  now at about 50 percent of all cases  Yale New Haven Healths top doctor offered a sobering caution to those who havent yet gotten the shot to protect themselves.

Theres really only two paths, Dr. Thomas Balcezak, YNHHs chief clinical officer said Tuesday afternoon at an online press conference, Youre going to get vaccinated or youre going to get COVID.

The good news, however, is that overall COVID cases in Connecticut are down, according to Yale New Haven Health CEO Marna Borgstrom.

The other good news is that the existing vaccines are still protective against the Delta variant, said Balcezak, and although some people still may become infected even though theyve been vaccinated, we do know that the chances of them getting seriously ill or dying are less if theyve had the vaccine.

There have been a total of 29 people in Connecticut who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 after previously being vaccinated at least once, including three within the past three weeks, Balcezak said.

As of Tuesday, there were just 11 COVID-19 cases being treated across the Yale New Haven Health System, including eight at Yale New Haven Hospital and three at Bridgeport hospital, with none at Greenwich Hospital, Lawrence Memorial Hospital in New London or Westerly Hospital in R.I., said Borgstrom.

Just one of the those in-patients is in the intensive care unit and that patient is not on a ventilator, she said.

While treating the disease remains a concern, I marvel at how far weve come, Borgstrom said.

At the height of the pandemic in April 2020, we were looking at 800 in-patients in the health system, she said.

Borgstrom said YNHH officials dont take it for granted that things are going as well as they are.

We feel very privileged to be in this place right now, and when we look back, we had more than 13,400 people admitted with COVID since the onset of COVID in March 2020.

Thoughout the pandemic, YNHH has had a 92 percent survival rate, she said.

This reflects the incredible work of our staff, our team, who really learned by doing this, because the textbook hadnt been written, Borgstrom said.

... It was really a tribute to a team of people who just kind of threw themselves in and did this work, rolled up their sleeves, asked for advice and took it, she said.

Borgstrom recently was reminded how relatively well things are going right now in Connecticut when she spoke to a colleague in Missouri whose institution has more patients now than it did during the second-wave spike in December, she said.

Balcezak said the fact that the Delta variant is so contagious is one reason why YNHH is seeking the mandatory vaccination of all employees.

Were also going to continue to wear masks in our facilities, both to protect the employees and anyone who is not vaccinated, he said.

I like to think of these as layers of protection, Balcezak said. Getting vaccinated is a layer of protection. Wearing a mask is another layer of protection.

The percentage of Yale New Haven Health employees who have been vaccinated currently remains at about 88 percent, but Balcezak said he expects those numbers to climb soon.

With regard to vaccine manufacturer Pfizers suggestion that a booster shot may soon be needed, Balcezak said the most important element of Dr. Anthony Faucis response was that he didnt believe a booster was needed at this moment.

There is no doubt in my mind that we will someday need a booster, Balcezak said. ... Now, whether that it is in the fall or in a year or two in the future, we dont know.

Yale New Haven Health is requiring employees to get their first shot by Aug. 31 and their second shot by the end of September, said Vice President for Public Affairs Vincent Petrini.

Connecticut has reached the point where the majority of people are vaccinated in most parts of Connecticut, and what I think that means is that we will not see a return to the kinds of numbers that we previously saw, said Balcezak.

mark.zaretsky@hearstmediact.com
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP)  Sen. Lisa Murkowski hasn't officially announced if she will run again next year, but her campaign released fundraising details Wednesday that an adviser says strongly positions the Alaska Republican for a reelection bid.

Kevin Sweeney, a consultant to the campaign who ran Murkowski's comeback 2010 write-in bid, said Murkowski's focus is on her work in Washington. But he told The Associated Press that the fundraising shows Murkowski also is doing the work to make sure that she's positioned for reelection, when that time comes.

Murkowskis campaign released top-line numbers but Sweeney was not immediately able to provide a copy of the four-page summary of the report that also gets filed with the Federal Election Commission.

The campaign said Murkowski had raised $1.15 million in the second quarter, which ended June 30, and had about $2.3 million on hand.

Wednesdays campaign statement comes ahead of a filing deadline and days after Republican Party leaders in Alaska endorsed Kelly Tshibaka, a former state Department of Administration commissioner. Murkowski, who has a reputation as a moderate, has at times been at odds with party leaders on issues such as abortion and in her criticism of former President Donald Trump.

Tshibaka, in a statement after the vote by party leaders, said she was grateful and thrilled to have the support.

I have pledged that I will be true to our shared, conservative Alaska ideals and be a senator upon whom they can depend to make every decision based on what is best for our great state, she said.

Murkowski said she has "and will continue to fight for Alaskan values in the U.S. Senate. Alaskan voters will decide who represents them in DC and I work every day to earn their support.

Tshibaka's campaign in a statement said she has raised more than $750,000 since announcing her candidacy on March 29 and it emphasized support from small donors. Tshibaka in her first quarter report disclosed raising about $215,000 as of March 31.

Tim Murtaugh, who is working on Tshibakas campaign, noted the second quarter filing deadline is Thursday.

Tshibaka has highlighted on her campaign site interviews on conservative national networks and recently announced an endorsement from Trump.

Murkowski was one of seven Republican senators who voted to convict Trump during a Senate impeachment trial earlier this year. Trump was acquitted of a charge of incitement of insurrection related to the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol riot.

Murkowski was appointed to the U.S. Senate in late 2002 by her father, then-Gov. Frank Murkowski, a fact that still rankles some residents. She was elected to her first six-year term in 2004.

Murkowski lost her 2010 Republican primary to tea party favorite Joe Miller but won the general election with a write-in campaign. In a crowded 2016 general election field that included Miller running as a Libertarian, Murkowski won with 44% of the vote.

Alaska voters last year approved sweeping changes to the state's election process that would end party primaries and implement ranked-choice voting in general elections. Under the new system, the top four vote getters in the primary, regardless of party, advance to the general election.

The system is set to take effect for next year's races. It's currently being challenged in court.
AUSTIN, Texas (AP)  On Day 3 of Texas Democrats hunkering down in Washington to block tighter voting laws, Republicans back home settled into a new routine that boils down to turning the Democrats' gambit into yet another advantage for the GOP in 2022.

With time and a commanding majority on their side, Texas Republicans who began the summer with a long to-do list aimed at pushing the state farther to the right were filling their sudden free time Wednesday hammering Democrats as obstructionists.

Despite being unable to pass any bills, GOP lawmakers promised to keep coming to work at the Texas Capitol. They say Democrats are blocking widely popular measures to lower property taxes and give teachers more money. And they are showing their resolve to eventually pass a new voting bill that includes a raft of changes that on the whole would make it harder to cast a ballot in Texas.

While these Texas Democrats collect taxpayer money as they ride on private jets to meet with the Washington elite, those who remain in the chamber await their return to begin work on providing our retired teachers a 13th check, protecting our foster kids, and providing taxpayer relief, Republican House Speaker Dade Phelan said.

The Republican criticism hinted at how the party is hoping to turn the screws on Democrats for the weeks to come. Both parties are mindful that the voting debate and the Democratic walkout are likely to resonate into next year, when the parties are battling over the governors office, as well as dozens of newly drawn statehouse districts.

In Washington, Texas Democrats were also settling into a new routine: meeting with members of Congress to press for action on voting rights at the federal level, but coming away with little signs of movement. President Joe Biden on Tuesday appeared to tacitly acknowledge the fading hopes for voting legislation, saying he would launch a nationwide campaign to arm voters with information on rule changes and restrictions ahead of the midterm elections.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell blasted the Texas Democrats from the floor of the Senate Wednesday, characterizing their flight to Washington, D.C., as an effort to snap selfies, bask in the limelight, and beg Senate Democrats to take over Texas elections.

State legislators from Texas decided to grab some beer, hop on a private jet, and flee the state in what they are pretending is some great moral crusade, the Kentucky Republican said, later adding, the outrage is completely phony.

Outside the hotel where the contingent is living and working after flying to Washington on chartered planes Monday, about a dozen demonstrators held signs with messages that included Do your job! and Who paid for the private jet?

The legislators insisted multiple times that no taxpayer funds were being used. The entire trip, they said, was paid for through donations and out of their own pockets.

The representatives also defended their decision to leave Texas, saying the move had already partially succeeded by shining a national spotlight on voting rights. More than a dozen states this year have already passed tougher election laws in response to former President Donald Trumps false claims that the 2020 election was stolen.

We are not here on vacation, Democratic state Rep. Jose Menendez said. Id much rather be home with my family. We are here to do a job.

Republicans say the voting changes are needed to fight fraud. However, fraud is very rare, and Democrats say the measures target their supporters.

We will stay here for as long as it takes, and come back as many times as it takes, to give these protections to every Texas voter, said Republican state Sen. Bryan Hughes, one of the lead GOP authors of the voting bill.

For his part, state Rep. Chris Turner, the Texas House Democratic chairman, said his caucus was actively raising funds to sustain a long-term stay in Washington. He said the Democrats fully intend to remain outside of Texas until the current session ends on Aug 7 "in order to kill this bill.

And in the meantime," he said, "we are going to shine a harsh national spotlight on Republican voter-suppression efforts.

Asked how long they could hold out, Turner replied, Were not worried about it.

The agenda Republican Gov. Greg Abbott ordered at the start of the 30-day session included hot-button conservative priorities such as border security measures and rules over how race can be taught in public schools. Republicans have not given up on those efforts, but since Democrats left, they have instead highlighted more middle-of-the-road issues.

Although Texas Republicans authorized state troopers to find and corral missing legislators, there remained no indication Wednesday that any action was being taken. Abbott has threatened Democrats with arrest once they return, as state troopers have no jurisdiction beyond Texas.

Taking off to Washington is the second time that Democratic lawmakers have staged a walkout over the voting overhaul, which they say will make it harder for young people, people of color and people with disabilities to vote. The legislation would outlaw 24-hour polling places, ban drop boxes for mail ballots and empower partisan poll watchers.

___

Khalil reported from Washington. Associated Press writer Brian Slodysko in Washington contributed to this report.




Haiti - Diplomacy : Tribute to President Jovenel Moise at the UN (Speech)





On Wednesday July 14 at the plenary session of the General Assembly, Deputy Secretary General Amina J. Mohamed on behalf of Secretary General Antonio Guterres paid tribute to President of Haiti Jovenel Moise assassinated in his residence on July 8, 2021.



Speech at the UN :

"Excellency ladies and gentlemen, friends,



On behalf of the Secretary-General, it is with great sadness in my heart that I am before you this morning. Together with the Government and the Haitian people, we mourn the death of His Excellency President Jovenel Moise https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34162-haiti-flash-president-jovenel-moise-assassinated-by-mercenaries-official-updated-7am-+-video.html .



Today we say goodbye not only to a Head of State, but also to a friend, a father, a husband.



We offer our condolences and pay tribute to his wife, the First Lady, Martine https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34201-haiti-flash-authenticated-message-from-the-first-lady-martine-moise-audio.html , as well as to the children, Jomarlie, Joverlein and Jovenel Jr. Condolences also to all Haitians who see in this tragic death a blow to the dignity and sovereignty of a people, a blow to democracy.



I visited Haiti in 2017 when President Moise took office.



We traveled to the south of the country, where he showed me with great pride, projects in the fields of agriculture, infrastructure and energy that he would carry out across the country. With great joy, he invited me to sit beside him on this bulldozer that a woman was driving, to pierce the roads leading to several villages in the region.



Then we saw and understood his vision of a Haiti with electricity everywhere, with sustainable infrastructure and a strong agricultural sector.



As President Moise understood the many complex challenges facing him could not be met in any way. He has greatly influenced our efforts to advance conflict prevention, maintain and consolidate Peace in Haiti.



Under his Presidency, Haiti has seen the transmission of cholera stop, the last case reported was in February 2019. Next year, we can announce that this disease is completely eradicated. We would have liked so much for him to announce it, but it won't.



Haiti is already going through many difficult times. The United Nations in a partnership with Haiti is there to help Haiti move from an emergency approach to a sustainable solution, from an assistance approach to a transversal approach of investment and cooperation for sustainable development, the democracy and opportunity for all.



The Haitian people have never ceased to fight for dignity and justice. This proud Nation has represented these values ever since it became the first independent state in the Caribbean, when it freed itself from slavery and colonial control over 200 years ago.



I firmly believe that these values will allow Haiti and its people to get through this difficult period and achieve a future of lasting peace and prosperity for all.



Rest in Peace President. We will never forget you."



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34233-haiti-flash-new-message-from-martine-moise-first-photo.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34232-haiti-news-zapping.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34201-haiti-flash-authenticated-message-from-the-first-lady-martine-moise-audio.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34199-haiti-assassination-of-the-president-names-of-the-20-members-of-the-commando-arrested-5-others-still-on-the-run.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34162-haiti-flash-president-jovenel-moise-assassinated-by-mercenaries-official-updated-7am-+-video.html



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Justice : Dimitri Herard did not appear at the Palace of Justice





Wednesday July 14, 2021, Dimitri Herard, the Head of the General Security Unit of the National Palace (USGPN) invited to the Palace of Justice by the Government Commissioner Me Bed-Ford Claude https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34232-haiti-news-zapping.html who wanted to interview him as part of the investigation into the assassination of President Jovenel Moise on July 7 https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34162-haiti-flash-president-jovenel-moise-assassinated-by-mercenaries-official-updated-7am-+-video.html did not appear and justified himself in a correspondence addressed to the Chief of Public Prosecutor's Office of which we have obtained a copy.



Correspondence from Dimitri Herard :

"Me. Bed-Ford CLAUDE

Government Commissioner, a..i

Near the Court of First Instance of Port-au-Prince



Mr. Commissioner,



I have the honor to inform you, following the invitation made to me by the Public Prosecutor's Office of Port au Prince, that I am currently under a precautionary measure ordered by the General Inspectorate of Haitian National Police and that therefore, I am not available to comply with the requisition of the Public Prosecutor's Office.



While being disposed to answer it once this precautionary measure has been exhausted, I respectfully wish to request a suspension from your Public Prosecutor's Office for such a purpose as of right.



I take this opportunity to renew to you, Commissioner, the expression of my respectful greetings.



Dimitri HERARD"



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34232-haiti-news-zapping.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34223-haiti-justice-the-dg-of-the-colombian-police-wonders-about-the-role-of-the-chief-of-security-of-president-moise.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34199-haiti-assassination-of-the-president-names-of-the-20-members-of-the-commando-arrested-5-others-still-on-the-run.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34162-haiti-flash-president-jovenel-moise-assassinated-by-mercenaries-official-updated-7am-+-video.html



HL/ S/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - COVID : 500,000 vaccines in Haiti, 75% of Haitians do not want to be vaccinated





On Wednesday, Haiti received 500,000 doses of Covid-19 vaccine from the MODERNA Laboratory, a vaccine called "Spikevax" (since June 21, 2021), a donation from the United States under the COVAX mechanism. Moderna vaccines are in the central cold chain of the Ministry of Public Health in the area of Toussaint Louverture international airport.



"The Department of Public Health and Population expresses its gratitude to the United States Government for this gesture of solidarity and mutual aid. These vaccines will be administered free of charge to the Haitian population," said Dr Marie Greta Roy Clement, Minister of Public Health. This delivery will allow the Ministry to start the anti-COVID vaccination campaign with the guarantee that other vaccines should gradually arrive in the country.



"The arrival of this batch of vaccines is a positive development in Haiti's current fight against the epidemic [...]" said Dr Maureen Birmingham, PAHO/WHO representative in Haiti.



United States Ambassador to Haiti Michele Sison said : "On behalf of the United States government, I am pleased that we are able to provide the first delivery of Moderna Covid-19 vaccine to the Haitian people [...] this effort reflects our long-standing commitment to the health of Haitian citizens. In these difficult times, we remain a partner of the Haitian people in building a more stable and secure Haiti, including in its fight against COVID-19."



According to Bruno Maes, UNICEF Representative in Haiti, "Our role now is to keep vaccines in appropriate storage conditions, from the airport to their use in all departments of the country. With the level of misinformation around vaccines, this vaccination campaign will not be easy."



There are many challenges :



Delicate maintain of the cold chain :

Shelf life of vaccines is a maximum of 7 months between -15 and -25C (before expiration)

The unopened vial can be stored in the refrigerator at 2-8C, protected from light, for up to 30 days. During this period, the maximum time for transporting the vaccine in liquid state is 12 hours at 2C to 8C.

The unopened vial can be stored at 8C to 25C for a maximum of 24 hours after removal from the refrigerator .

Thawed and before dilution storage 2 hours maximum at room temperature (maximum 30C).

After dilution, storage for 6 hours maximum between 2 and 30C.



Convince the population :

76% of the Haitian population declares that they would refuse to be vaccinated if the vaccine against Covid-19 was available in Haiti according to the survey of "Safitek Research" carried out between the 5th and the 19th April 2021



Download the survey from "Safitek Research" : https://www.haitilibre.com/docs/Safitek-COVID-19-2021-FR.pdf



Find out more about COVAX :

Covax is an initiative led by the World Health Organization (WHO) is the result of an extraordinary and unique global collaboration, with more than two-thirds of the world engaged (Governments, World Health Organizations, laboratories, scientists, the private sector, civil society and philanthropy), with the aim of providing innovative and equitable access to COVID-19 diagnostics, treatments and vaccines regardless of people's wealth.



COVAX has the largest and most diverse portfolio of COVID-19 vaccines in the world, and as such represents the world's best hope for an early end to this pandemic.



So far COVAX has shipped more than 36 million doses of vaccine to 86 countries as of April 5, according to the UN spokesperson.



HL/ TB/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - FLASH : Monitoring of investigations into the assassination of President Jovenel Moise





On Wednesday, Leon Charles the Director General a.i. of the National Police of Haiti (PNH) took stock on the ongoing investigations into the assassination of President Jovenel Moise.



Administratively, 24 precautionary measures have been taken against several police officers assigned to presidential security and heads of units and 4 are placed in solitary confinement.



Among the important and new points, the presentation of a photo, on which appear intellectual authors of the attack including Christian Emmanuel Sanon, James Solages, Joel John Joseph, technical and financial managers of the operation meeting in a hotel in Santo Domingo who were planning the assassination of President Moise, according to Leon Charles who specified that some on the photo have already been arrested and that the former Senator John Joel Joseph, present at this meeting, is still actively sought...



Leon Charles indicated that the police had issued four wanted notices in connection with the assassination of President Jovenel Moise :



Joseph Felix BADIO, a former civil servant, Coordinator of the operation, logistics, rental of houses purchase of equipment etc;



John Joel JOSEPH ex West Senator elected under the INITE banner, fierce opponent of the PHTK, Treasurer of the operation, coordination of meetings, vehicle rental and payment of materials.



Rodolph JAAR businessman and director of several companies, Coordinator of the operation on the ground, accommodation of members of the commando in Laboule 22, payments of materials and financing https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34225-haiti-notice-the-pnh-is-looking-for-3-dangerous-and-armed-individuals-including-a-former-senator.html



Gordon Phenil Desir, responsible for leasing vehicles, coordinating meetings with mercenaries and paying for materials, whose wanted notice is in the downloadable document at the bottom of this article.



Charles said more people were wanted but no wanted notices had yet been issued to avoid attracting their attention and hampering the investigation.



For the moment 5 Haitians have been arrested : James Solages. Joseph Vincent, Christian Emmanuel Sanon https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34210-haiti-flash-arrest-of-one-of-the-intellectual-authors-of-the-assassination-of-president-moise-and-an-attempted-coup.html to which are added Reynaldo Corvington and Gilbert Dragon the last two arrests.



Searches carried out :



At Reynaldo Corvington, police found and seized 8 12mm caliber rifles including 3 automatic, 1 M1 assault rifle and 1 AR-15, 9 pistols, 5 shotguns. Several magazines, 3 fragmentation grenades and 1 vehicle.



From Gilbert Dragon's home, police seized 12mm caliber ammunition, 1 AR-15 assault rifle, 2 9mm caliber pistols and two 2 vests per bullet.



Download the document of the images presented at the press conference : https://www.haitilibre.com/docs/update-assasinat-jovenel-moise-14-07-2021.pdf



Photo from Assassination Planning Meeting

Photos and list of Colombians arrested and killed and their military formations

Names and photos of the 5 Haitians arrested

Photos of Gilbert Dragon and Reynaldo Corvington and details of the seizures

New wanted notice from Desir Gordon Phenil



Read also on the assassination of President Moise :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34225-haiti-notice-the-pnh-is-looking-for-3-dangerous-and-armed-individuals-including-a-former-senator.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34223-haiti-justice-the-dg-of-the-colombian-police-wonders-about-the-role-of-the-chief-of-security-of-president-moise.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34220-haiti-politic-creation-of-the-organizing-committee-for-the-national-funeral-of-president-moise-text-of-the-decree.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34218-haiti-flash-wanted-notice-for-a-very-dangerous-colombian-mercenary.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34217-haiti-flash-the-white-house-does-not-rule-out-sending-troops-to-haiti.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34214-haiti-assassination-of-president-a-colombian-team-in-haiti.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34212-haiti-politic-a-large-american-delegation-in-haiti.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34210-haiti-flash-arrest-of-one-of-the-intellectual-authors-of-the-assassination-of-president-moise-and-an-attempted-coup.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34205-haiti-flash-statements-and-testimony-from-colombia-about-the-commando.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34203-haiti-usa-no-american-military-assistance-for-the-moment.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34201-haiti-flash-authenticated-message-from-the-first-lady-martine-moise-audio.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34199-haiti-assassination-of-the-president-names-of-the-20-members-of-the-commando-arrested-5-others-still-on-the-run.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34193-haiti-flash-the-government-requests-the-sending-of-american-soldiers-to-the-country.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-34188-icihaiti-flash-11-mercenaries-arrested-in-the-taiwanese-embassy.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34193-haiti-flash-the-government-requests-the-sending-of-american-soldiers-to-the-country.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-34188-icihaiti-flash-11-mercenaries-arrested-in-the-taiwanese-embassy.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34183-haiti-flash-the-commando-that-killed-the-president-included-26-colombians-and-2-haitian-americans-official-video.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-34182-icihaiti-assassination-of-president-moise-15-days-of-national-mourning-text-of-the-decree.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34178-haiti-politic-what-measures-contains-the-state-of-siege-text-of-the-decree.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-34177-icihaiti-usa-the-pm-met-with-secretary-of-state-anthony-blinken.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34176-haiti-un-the-security-council-condemns-the-assassination-of-president-jovenel-moise.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-34174-icihaiti-diplomacythe-assassins-of-moise-were-professional-mercenaries-dixit-bocchit-edmond.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34173-haiti-flash-the-police-intercepts-the-presumed-assassins-of-president-moise-official-video.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34172-haiti-flash-martine-moise-in-florida-for-treatment.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34170-haiti-flash-the-first-lady-martine-moise-would-still-be-alive-but.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34168-haiti-flash-the-state-of-siege-is-declared-in-haiti.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34165-haiti-assassination-of-jovenel-moise-what-says-the-constitution.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34162-haiti-flash-president-jovenel-moise-assassinated-by-mercenaries-official-updated-7am-+-video.html



Reactions :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34180-haiti-politic-assassination-of-president-moiserain-of-reactions-part-2.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34169-haiti-flash-rain-of-reactions-on-the-assassination-of-president-moise-part-1.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34175-haiti-assassination-of-president-moise-international-reactions-part-1.html



PI/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - News : Zapping...





Bus hijacked, 16 passengers kidnapped

On Wednesday July 14, 2021, a bus returning from Port-de-Paix heading for Port-au-Prince and having on board about 40 passengers was hijacked by unidentified armed individuals who kidnapped 16 of the passengers.



Tribute from US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield

Intervention by American Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield at the UN Wednesday July 14 in tribute to the death of President of Haiti Jovenel Moise "[...] I join my distinguished colleagues here today to express our shock, our sadness and our firm condemnation of the horrible assassination of President Jovenel Moise and of the attack against the first lady Martine Moise on July 7. I had just met them in Ecuador in May. We wish the first lady a speedy recovery and offer our sincere condolences to the Moise family and the Haitian people [...]" See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34234-haiti-diplomacy-tribute-to-president-jovenel-moise-at-the-un-speech.html



UN : Tribute from Haiti to President Moise

Wednesday July 14, in plenary session of the United Nations General Assembly, Antonio Rodrigue, the Permanent Representative of Haiti to the United Nations paid tribute to President Jovenel Moise assassinated on July 7:







See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34234-haiti-diplomacy-tribute-to-president-jovenel-moise-at-the-un-speech.html



Books of condolence

Embassy of Haiti in Washington :

The condolence book is open at the Embassy of Haiti in Washington D.C. from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The online version of the condolence book is available at the following link : https://www.haiti.org/livre-de-condoleances/



Embassy of Spain :

In tribute to the President of the Republic Jovenel Moise, an online register is open at the Embassy of Haiti in Spain to allow all those who wish to present their condolences and sympathies to the family of the deceased https://embassyofhaiti.eu/jovenel-moise-obituary/



Embassy of Haiti in London :

Ms. Emma Mennessy, Head of the Caribbean Affairs Office of the British Foreign Ministry signed the condolence register at the Embassy of Haiti in London, in tribute to President Jovenel Moise



Embassy of Spain in Haiti :

"In homage to President Jovenel Moise, His Excellency Mr. Manuel Hernandez Ruigomez, Ambassador of Spain in Haiti from 2011 to 2014, praised the efforts and courage of the President who was committed to promoting a structural change to allow social stability -economic and political in the country."



Embassy of Haiti in Spain

The representative of the Embassy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo paid tribute to President Jovenel Moise, expressing "the sympathies and solidarity of the Congolese people to the government and to the Haitian people in this painful circumstance."



The representative of the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia paid tribute to President Jovenel Moise, expressing "the sympathies and solidarity of the Indonesian people to the government and to the Haitian people in this time of mourning. "



The representative of the German Embassy paid tribute to President Jovenel Moise, expressing "the sympathies and solidarity of the German people to the Government and to the Haitian people in this painful circumstance. "



Embassy of Haiti in the Dominican Republic :

The Ambassador of Haiti Smith Augustin and the Charge d'affaires of the Embassy of Qatar in the Dominican Republic, Yasser Al-Abdulla proceeded to the signing of the book of condolences in tribute to President Jovenel Moise at the Embassy of Haiti in the Dominican Republic.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















By William Schwartz | Published on 2021/07/14

At the end of the previous episode, Na-bi and Jae-eon had sex. It was a romantic moment, if not for the inconvenient fact that by seeming mutual agreement Na-bi and Jae-eon aren't making their relationship public. The fourth episode explores the ramifications of this over the long term. Na-bi is genuinely happy in her friends with benefit style arrangement. But elsewhere, her social life seems to be nonexistent. The second male lead Do-hyeok is introduced as an old childhood friend who Na-bi sees while visiting her mother.

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The maternal visit itself is brief but rather illuminating. We find out both that Na-bi does not appear to have had a father figure growing up, and also that her mother enjoys sex. Now, there's nothing wrong with that. The issue here is that Na-bi feels neglected, and is easily flattered by positive attention. This explains a lot about why she's so amenable to Jae-eon's often cryptic displays of affection. Jae-eon is so warm and attentive that Na-bi's just happy to be noticed.

However, Jae-eon isn't always like that. An overheard conversation confirms what was implied with body language in the last episode. Other men on campus do not like Jae-eon. They tolerate him, mainly because he's pretty, but find his attitude overly superior and condescending. Jae-eon's peculiar brand of passive aggressive niceness does not endear him to fellow men, nor does his reputation as a womanizer do him any favors socially.

I rather liked this emphasis, as it's rare to see this noted in fiction. While everyone's heard of slut-shaming, man-whoring is not as well known, though it is indeed very real. Guys don't instantly respect anyone who's good at getting laid. We're perfectly capable of seeing such people as pigs. As usual, though, Jae-eon's charms allow Na-bi to go "Nevertheless" at his typically glaring flaws. The fact that the only person willing to confront Na-bi on the topic has no emotional credibility works in Jae-eon's favor even as Na-bi reluctantly recognizes the truth in the argument.

Two subplots are also given more prominent screentime. One features a hookup that turns to a friends without benefits arrangement, while the other hints at a secret relationship with a far more defendable reason than anything Na-bi and Jae-eon have been using. Both deal in the subject of the problems inherent in a secret relationship where the secrecy implies shame. Ultimately the social standards provoking that shame only work as an excuse for so long.

Review by William Schwartz

___________

"Nevertheless" is directed by Jang Ji-yeon, Kim Ga-ram, written by Jung Won, and features Han So-hee, Song Kang, Chae Jong-hyeop, Lee Yeol-eum, Yang Hye-ji, Kim Min-gwi. Broadcasting information in Korea: 2021/06/19~Now airing, Sat 23:00 on jTBC.
Published on 2021/07/14 | Source

Kim Doyeon of Weki Meki has confirmed her appearance in "One the Woman".

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Kim Doyeon has confirmed her appearance as Lee Hanee's younger version in SBS' new drama "One the Woman" drawing public attention with her constant hard-working moves.

The new SBS drama "One the Woman" is a comedy drama that depicts a bad female prosecutor whose life is changed to that of a daughter-in-law of a conglomerate family who looks just like her due to memory loss. Above all, many talented actors such as Lee Hanee, Lee Sang-yoon, Jin Seo-yeon, and Lee Won-geun have joined the drama, drawing much attention even before the show.

Kim Doyeon plays the childhood of Kang Mi-na, daughter-in-law of a chaebol family, and Jo Yeon-joo, a corruption prosecutor. Kim Doyeon, will challenge two roles for the first time since her debut.

Meanwhile, Kim Doyeon has been recognized for her stable acting skills since she started acting in the web drama "Short" in 2018 and appeared in works such as "Pop Out Boy!" and "Single and Ready to Mingle".

Currently, she plays the role of a mean but cute sister, Gye Seo-woo, in the tvN drama "My Roommate Is a Gumiho" and is loved by viewers for her bubbly charm.

Kim Doyeon is also making appearances in "Jirisan" which is scheduled to air in the second half of this year, as well as SBS drama "One the Woman".
We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on!

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Two new events have been added to the schedule of the Northern Winz Casino Powwow at the Great Northern Fair Friday evening including a stand-up comedy show featuring Conway Kootenay, and a hot dog eating contest.

The comedy show will be 7-9 p.m. under the Northern Winz tent at the Great Northern Fairgrounds.

Kootenay is a comedian, master of ceremony, actor, stuntman and, as promotional material describes him, a champion chicken dancer.

He has a popular online sketch-comedy show and is described as one of North Americas most talked about Native comedians.

Friday will also see a hot dog eating contest at 8 p.m. with four-person teams facing off for a $300 first prize, $200 for second place, and $100 for third.

Registration for the contest begins at 7 p.m. and costs $20 per team.

Anyone looking for more information about either event can call Northern Winz Hotel and Casino Marketing Director Ree OldBull at 406-399-1700.

People looking for more information on the powwow in general can call him or Northern Winz Hotel and Casino Gaming Commissioner Rebekah Jarvey, at 406-390-6575.
The Wasay Wakpa Wachi Powwow is returning to Lodge Pole Friday and Saturday after a year without it due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Wasay Wakpa Wachi Oshkaday Committee Member Don Racine said it will be a traditional, noncompetitive powwow for the Fort Belknap community and beyond.

We keep things pretty simple, a lot of singing, a lot of dancing, Racine said.

Grand entires for the powwow will be Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m.

He said events like this are a celebration of life and all that has happened since the last gathering, and added the lack of a powwow last year made a lot of people in the community sad.

It really gave everybody a lonesome feeling, he said.

Racine said hes glad virtual powwows and dances were being held during that time, but its not the same as being there, and everyone hes talked to is happy to come back after a year away.

Theyre excited to hear and feel that music again, he said.

He said friends of his who normally sing or play drums in powwows have been practicing for a year, waiting for their opportunity to get back to doing what they love.

Racine said the event normally draws people from Rocky Boy, Browning and Fort Peck as well as a few people from Northern Cheyenne Tribe, the Flathead and Canada looking to visit friends and relatives but this year he cant be sure how many people will be coming.

He said the powwow has a modest-sized space for the event but theres never enough room, with families rows back often struggling to see, especially in the evenings.

Racine said there will be plenty of local food vendors as well as some folks selling art and crafts.

The more the merrier, he said.

He said the committee tries not to charge vendors too much and even a little bit of money can be a huge help to the committee.

He said there will certainly be some in Fort Belknap who will prefer the kind of powwow Northern Winz Hotel & Casino is putting on at the Great Northern Fair, but he suspects there are also some folks at Rocky Boy who may prefer a more noncompetitive powwow and hell be happy to see people having a good time whichever one they attend.

He said this incarnation of Lodge Poles powwow was started about a dozen years ago by the committee with the help of the communitys elders who provided their knowledge about powwow traditions and words of encouragement.

We were trying to help our community any way we could, he said.

Racine said this years powwow may see temperatures of around 100 degrees and asked that people be prepared for it, and that they social distance as best they can.

He asked that everyone who attends abide by the Fort Belknap Tribal Councils rules regarding COVID-19 and has a good time.

He said everyone is welcome at the event, which he hopes will leave everyone going home happy.
Danny Richard Zinn, 65, of Chinook Montana, went to be with the Lord on July 6th at 6:00 a.m. with his son Adam by his side.

Danny was the second child born to Richard and Lois (Bilger) Zinn on August 14th,1955. He grew up in Havre, Montana, where he graduated from Havre High School. Danny loved history and loved his country. He was always studying and learning new things. Danny was proud to be a patriot and the Fourth of July was his favorite holiday. Cars, motorcycles, family gatherings and the great outdoors were favorite pastimes.

He married Janet Maclean on August 20th,1977. To this union two sons were born, Adam and Nathaniel "Nate." He was always proud of his sons and their accomplishments. Danny enjoyed family time, traveling to amusement parks and camping. He spent many hours following his kids to various sporting events across Montana. Bowling was another love, and Danny spent years on a family bowling team competing in many tournaments. Danny loved a good party surrounded by family and friends and was the host of many BBQs and pool parties throughout the years.

Danny worked in lumber yards through high school, and after graduating he started his career with the railroad. He worked his way from the tie gang to bridge crew foreman and finally settled in as foreman in the Havre diesel shop. He was a hard worker and proud to do a good job. On August 18th, 2015, after 41 years of dedication, he retired and began a new adventure.

He enjoyed his retirement, spending winters in Yuma where he grew beautiful flowers, kept busy with "handyman" projects and was a member of the "Tea Party" group, where he wrote articles for publication. During the summers, he would travel back to Montana and spent his time with family between Chinook, Havre and Beaver Creek Park at the cabin. He faithfully attended "Rockin' the Rivers" and made it a priority of his summers. He was enjoying time with friends at the cabin when he suffered a stroke leading to his death.

Danny Zinn

Danny is survived by his son Adam Zinn of Chinook; mother, Lois Zinn of Havre; sister Debra Keeley, and brothers, Darrell Zinn, Gary Zinn and Don Zinn all of Havre; grandsons, Jacob Gregori of Havre and Aidan Zinn of Chinook, as well as many extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Zinn; infant sister Donna Zinn, wife, Janet Zinn, and son Nathaniel "Nate" Zinn.
On July 15, community members are welcome and encouraged to come to downtown Hazard to celebrate the kickoff of the Thursdays on the Triangle season. These events typically feature live music, art demonstrations and refreshments provided by local and guest vendors. The Perry County Farmer's Market also has a booth set up during these events. Local and regional artists are invited and encouraged to set up and sell their products and art work during these events.

Thursdays on the Triangle was originally created through a partnership between Mountain Association for Community Economic Development (MACED), the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky and the Hazard/Perry County Chamber of Commerce with support from the City of Hazard and the Perry County Community Foundation, but several other organizations have partnered with the event since then. The events are held at the Triangle Park in downtown Hazard on alternating Thursdays.

During the July 7 meeting of the Hazard Rotary Club, Hazard-Perry County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Betsy Clemons spoke to club members about the Thursdays on the Triangle event. The kickoff event, she said, was originally scheduled to be held on July 1 as one of the first events of the city's Independence Day celebration, however, the event was canceled due to inclement weather. This, said Clemons, allowed for more activities to be added.

Thursdays on the Triangle, because of the weather last week  it rained so bad  we're doing it next Thursday, July 15, but it's going to be even bigger and better, said Clemons.

Save the Children has a national filming crew coming in and they want to film what we're doing with the kids. For the music, the kids that have been taking lessons at the ArtStation, they're going to perform the music, said Clemons.

We'll do Appalachian crafts. We're going to have a petting zoo, a story book walk, bring the barn back down that they had at the park. A lot of children's activities plus the Farmer's Market will be going on, Fresh Stop (Market), adult beverages, she continued. The city bought a splash pad and we hope it will be installed.

Clemons said the splash pad is hoped to be installed at the end of the Farmer's Market by the fireplace.

I hope the weather is good this time, but it's going to be a really cool event, Clemons said.

This week's Thursday on the Triangle, said local organizers, is going to feature several food and drink vendors, including the Blue Stallion Brewery, Shenanigans and Big Daddy BBQ. Additionally, said local officials, there will be a lot of children's activities, crafts, giveaways and a petting zoo featuring an alpaca, sheep, goats, a mini cow, a pony, a donkey and a kangaroo. Music will be provided by the Appalachian Arts Alliance. All of the regular vendors for the farmers market will also be on-site.
Today

Mixed clouds and sun with scattered thunderstorms. High 83F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 69F. Winds light and variable.

Tomorrow

Partly to mostly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 86F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.
Members of the Women's Army Corps' all-Black 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion had to fight racial discrimination, gender discrimination and the war itself during World War II.

After traveling overseas in 1945, the unit, nicknamed "Six Triple Eight," survived encounters with Nazi U-boats and a German rocket explosion before spending months sorting through unheated warehouses stacked to the ceiling with mail and packages, according to the US Army Center of Military history. The battalion cleared a six-month backlog of mail in just three months.

Quarters were segregated by race and gender, leaving the group to run its own facilities. There were no commemorative ceremonies for members when they came home at the end of the war.

But this year, the US Senate passed legislation to grant a Congressional Gold Medal to the battalion.

Members of the House of Representatives are trying to gather enough votes to pass its companion bill and make the award official, said Carlton Philpot, chairman of the Buffalo Soldier Educational and Historical Committee, part of the National 9th and 10th Cavalry Association. The committee works to recognize Black American military units and soldiers.

"It's wonderful, and it's time," said Stanley Earley III, son of late 6888th commander Lt. Col. Charity Adams Earley. "It should have happened 50, 60 years ago. But there is now the opportunity for a recognition that these folks did all these things that were so important."

Only seven of the original 855 members are believed to still be alive, Earley said.

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The unit has been receiving more attention and accolades in recent years. A monument honoring the battalion was dedicated in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas in 2018. A documentary, "The Six Triple Eight: No Mail, Low Morale," celebrated the mail tracking system the battalion created. (By the end of the war, the unit processed about 17 million pieces of mail, according to the National World War II Museum.)

When Lt. Col. Adams Earley died in 2002, both the local Air Force base and the Army sent honor guards to her funeral, said Earley, who noted that his mother and her fellow soldiers constantly fought discrimination while serving.

"I remember she would talk about, there were classes that were segregated male and female, and there were also classes that were segregated racially, so you could theoretically have a situation where you had four classes," Earley told CNN, describing some of his mother's anecdotes about training. "At some point, they realized everybody could listen to the same lecture."

Maj. Fannie Griffin McClendon, who is among the surviving members of the battalion, talked about her WWII experience in a 2019 meeting with her local congressman, who interviewed her for the Library of Congress's Veterans History Project.

"It was to me history-making in that I learned geography and loved history in school -- and to go to places I had read about or heard about, to me it just brought back things I had learned in school," McClendon told Arizona Democratic Rep. Greg Stanton. "I still think about it even today."

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Partly to mostly cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms mainly during the morning. High 88F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

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(JNS) - The countdown started weeks ago, and it's finally time for many to return to sleep-away camp after a year of lockdowns, Zoom school, and separation from friends and family amid a worldwide pandemic.

"I'm so happy! It'll be so nice to see everyone," said 14-year-old Eliana Menasha, who calls herself a "full-on camper" and noted that "last year was kind of hard."

While camps in parts of the South and the Midwest have been operating for several weeks now, most Jewish camps in the Northeast and West Coast welcomed campers the week before the Fourth of July and this week. While many things have remained the same - there will be swimming, boating, camp fires and songs, hikes and sports, arts-and-crafts and canteen - some will require adjustments. For instance, many camps will have no field trips, no Visiting Day, and, in some instances, no second sessions or tryout-camps for younger campers. Others will be providing onsite COVID testing on arrival and during the summer.

The goal, emphasize directors, is to ensure that staff and campers have a safe, entertaining and educational summer without any potential coronavirus outbreaks.

"Everyone needs camp this summer, and we are going to deliver it," declared Rabbi Joel Seltzer, executive director of Camp Ramah in the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania. "Parents are excited for their kids to have a safe, social summer."

"This summer, our campers will be doing almost all their activities as cabin groups," said Jonathan I. Cohen, president of the Cohen Camps; Camp Tevya, Camp Tel Noar and Camp Pembroke in New England. "We've added lots of open-sided tents for shade and some fun gathering spots, like a 'hammock village' and fire pits with seating."

And, he said, "in-camp special events will replace out-of-camp field trips."

Planning this year's programs was challenging because no one knew exactly what the summer would look like, how many campers would be allowed or what restrictions would be in place before the start of summer. Guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention changed frequently, especially in the final run-up to opening day.

"You have to remember that preparing for camp this summer has not been easy given the constantly changing environment state by state and province by province," said Jeremy Fingerman, CEO of the Foundation for Jewish Camp. "Camp professionals have had such a roller-coaster preparing for a range of options. They went into this season assuming they would have to restrict occupancy in the bunks or dining hall."

Still, he said, "we are forecasting 75 percent" occupancy, and some camps "have more campers enrolled this year than in 2019."

For many Jewish camps, the ability to provide services this summer and to accommodate the real need for kids to be outdoors and among friends is being helped by Capacity Expansion Grants provided by the Foundation for Jewish Camp.

The matching grants provided camps with anywhere from $50,000 to $100,000 to rent temporary structures and additional properties, purchase necessary equipment (excluding PPE equipment), and/or build needed infrastructure. A total for $3.8 million was raised for the capacity expansion grant.

(Camp directors across the board noted that grants and funding aid from FJC and from JCamp180, a project of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, were critical in helping them get through the pandemic and camp closures last year.)

"Enrollment is looking great, and a lot of that is because of improvements we are making, including through the FJC, which allowed us to increase ventilation in bunks and maximize space to get as many kids into camp for a safe summer as possible," said Seltzer.

The Cohen Camps also upgraded ventilation in their cabins and added touchless water-bottle filling stations among other measures.

"Most of our bunks are nearly or completely full," said Cohen. Noting that that CDC and state guidelines are impacting the number of campers they can have, he said, "spots are in high demand because we have to limit some numbers.

But, Cohen added, "many first-time campers are coming, which is very exciting."

'Rebuilding that sense of community and spirit'

At Capital Camps and Retreat Center in Pennsylvania, interim CEO Havi Goldscher says that COVID has impacted their capacity. "We are at full capacity for some age groups, but have a little wiggle room in others. Space for our youngest campers is bursting at the seams."

She notes that the camp used the capacity expansion grant to build yurts on a more remote camping area, and that's where the oldest campers-teens going into 11th and 12th grade-will be staying this summer. Having the older campers on their own site opened more space in the traditional bunks, making it possible for an increased number of younger kids to attend.

"The energy and anticipation for this summer is just so strong," said Goldscher. "It's palatable and amazing, and I just can't wait."

While the interest in going to camp is definitely there, what remains unknown is how kids will handle being away from home, being back among those they haven't seen in two years or in some cases have never met, and dealing with the fallout of a year spent in lockdown, mask-wearing and isolation. After all, many children have been home for months on end, so to suddenly surround themselves with others may seem jarring at first.

To that end, many camps have made increasing investments in training staff on issues surrounding mental health and well-being.

"The pandemic has taken its toll on the mental health and wellness of all of us-from full-time camp staffers to the college counselors, and the campers and their parents," said Fingerman. "It's very clear that camps have been seeking ways to address that within each different constituency."

While he believes that the positive energy at camp will help everyone heal, he said people have to keep in mind that things are going to be a little different. "The main thing is getting back and rebuilding that sense of community and that sense of spirit."

The Israeli staff at Camp Tevya.

Cohen added that "campers should get to be kids again: to grow, make friends, build confidence, try new adventures, share in Jewish life and make all those memories that will last a lifetime. We can't wait!"
This letter, written by George Washington in 1790, is a response to Moses Seixas, warden of the Touro Synagogue in Newport. In it, Washington addresses the tolerance and freedom of religion in the newly established nation:

Gentlemen.

While I receive, with much satisfaction, your Address replete with expressions of affection and esteem, I rejoice in the opportunity of assuring you, that I shall always retain a grateful remembrance of the cordial welcome I experienced in my visit to Newport, from all classes of Citizens.

The reflection on the days of difficulty and danger, which are past is rendered the more sweet, from a consciousness that they are succeeded by days of uncommon prosperity and security. If we have wisdom to make the best use of the advantages with which we are now favored, we cannot fail, under the just administration of a good Government, to become a great and a happy people.

The Citizens of the United States of America have a right to applaud themselves for having given to mankind examples of an enlarged and liberal policy: a policy worthy of imitation. All possess a like liberty of conscience and immunities of citizenship. It is now no more that toleration is spoken of, as if it was by the indulgence of one class of people, that another enjoyed the exercise of their inherent natural rights. For happily the Government of the United States, which gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance, requires only that they who live under its protection should demean themselves as good citizens, in giving it on all occasions their effectual support.

It would be inconsistent with the frankness of my character not to avow that I am pleased with your favorable opinion of my administration, and fervent wishes for my felicity. May the Children of the Stock of Abraham, who dwell in this land, continue to merit and enjoy the good will of the other Inhabitants; while everyone shall sit in safety under his own vine and fig tree, and there shall be none to make him afraid. May the father of all mercies scatter light and not darkness in our paths, and make us all in our several vocations useful here, and in his own due time and way everlastingly happy.

G. Washington
(JNS) To the honorable President of Israel,

Truth be told, Im a little envious of you. In a short while, you will find out exactly how magnificent the privilege of the presidency is. Over the next seven years, you will meet Israelis from all walks of life, and let me tell you right nowyoull want to embrace all of them. Youll want to share their laughter and their tears; and all the excitement they experience.

Im sure you feel that you already know this, having such extensive experience as a public servant, but believe me, you have yet to find out what a wonderful country we have, and what wonderful people live among us. They will all find their way to your heart, where they will remain forever.

Amid the social rifts and polarity, you will find brave people who dont speak of coexistence, they simply live it. Every day, every hour, in their homes and places of employment, in their visions, dreams and family. Secular with ultra-Orthodox, right-wingers and leftists, Jews and Arabs, veteran Israelis and immigrants, the young and the old, members of all religions, sectors and ethnicitiesthey are all Israelis. Beautiful, enlightening and kind. Kind beyond anything you can imagine.

These men and women have given me so much hope over the past seven years. Israeli hope, thats what I called it, and Im sure you will call it that as well because they gave me hope that was quintessentially Israeli.

They were my beacon on the horizon and you, our dear president, will find that they are the horizon. You will find them in cities and rural areas, in hospitals, in the military, in the universities, in the police, in kindergartens and in schools, in the nearest and farthest localities, and on the street. You wont even have to search. They will always be there, in happy moments, in the most difficult moments, and as storms loom near, as they so often do.

On some nights, you will lose sleep. Your mind will wander back to the soldiers you met at a checkpoint on the border; to the lone soldier who hasnt seen his mother in six months  and you couldnt be happier that he will attend the Passover Seder at the Presidents Residence.

Youll think about the olim who came here at the height of the coronavirus pandemic; about the 12-year-old boy suffering from depression  actual clinical depression  you met while visiting the Geha Mental Health Center. Has his condition improved with time? And what about Yonatan Levy, still hospitalized with horrific injuries he suffered during the 2006 Second Lebanon War? And what about his mother, who never leaves his side? How is she doing?

And what about Yossi, the amazing IDF officer whose criminal record I had expunged so he can start a new life? Hell be alright, right? And what about the daughter of Druze police officer Zidan Seif, who was murdered in a terrorist attack on a synagogue in Jerusalem? She was just four months old when her father was killed and now she would be getting ready to start first grade.

You will look upon the photos of Hadar Goldin and Shaul Oronand yes, you will lose sleep over them. Over our missing and captives. Over Ron Arad. Over the bereaved families. Your heart will break yet somehow pound strongly and proudly to the beat of this nations story, just like mine did.

You will be proud. The president of this country has so much to be proud of. Here, it is the excitement that will keep you awake. Excitement over the overflowing crops in the fields, over the latest scientific invention and the advances in medicine, in research and in sports.

The excitement after meeting a 90-year-old woman who still volunteers, or another young woman who broke through the glass ceiling. When you watch the families of the three teens [Gilad Shaer, Naftali Frenkel and Eyal Yifrach, who were abducted and murdered by Hamas terrorists in 2014] present the Israel Unity Award year after year.

You will find everything suddenly exciting anew. Torah scholars, and those who farm the land; Holocaust survivors, heroes of the revival, and the leaders in the fight against domestic violence. The list goes on  oh, how it goes on.

You will be surprised. Fall in love. Be proud. Take to heart. You will try to do everything to make things better and easier for them. You will work for them tirelessly with love.

Many times, while in meetings or traveling, I thought to myself that the title Citizen No. 1 was born simply because this is the number-one people. Today, Im sure of it.

Heres to you, Mr. President, and to this people. Long live the 11th president of the State of Israel. Long live the State of Israel.

Yours always,

Ruvi

Reuven Rivlin was the president of the State of Israel.

This article first appeared in Israel Hayom.
(JTA)  The suspect in the stabbing of a Boston Chabad rabbi has been charged with committing a hate crime and civil rights offense.

Khaled Awad, 24, was arrested Thursday after allegedly stabbing Rabbi Shlomo Noginsky outside of his school and synagogue in the Brighton neighborhood. Noginsky survived the stabbing and has been released from the hospital, which he called a miracle.

Awad was charged initially with assault and battery by means of a dangerous weapon and assault and battery on a police officer. Prosecutors now have added the hate crimes charge because they say the attack was motivated by antisemitism.

The suspect had strong religious views and opinions against Jews, Christians, and the American culture, which were preconceived notions he arrived with from the Middle East, said Margaret Hegarty, the assistant district attorney of Suffolk County, which includes Boston, according to the Boston Globe. The witnesses also noticed that the suspect would stereotype various differences in racial groups and behavior, which included whites and Blacks, and that he was especially harsh on Jews.

A court clinician who evaluated Awad has diagnosed him as bipolar, and he was deemed unfit to stand trial when he faced criminal charges in Florida, according to the Globe. He will now be examined at Bridgewater State Hospital for 20 days.

Awads attorney, Stephen Weymouth, said the stabbing looked like some sort of crime of opportunity and that I do not see anything that indicates to me that this was based on hate, according to the Globe.

District Attorney Rachael Rollins said Noginsky was stabbed while he was wearing a kippah and standing outside of a Jewish school in front of a big menorah.

We want the Jewish community to know that we believe this was rooted in antisemitism, we are going to call that out and charge that specifically, she said.
WASHINGTON (JTA)  Andrew Saul, the Social Security Administration Commissioner who President Joe Biden fired last week, claimed the move was illegal and vowed to stay in the post.

Saul, a businessman who has donated heavily to Jewish causes, gave the comment to The Washington Post on Friday.

Biden said the Trump-appointed official was thwarting changes that Biden wanted at the agency. The government is able to cut off access to computer networks, so its not clear what options Saul has.

Democrats, government unions, and advocates for the disabled and the elderly had all pressed for the removal of Saul.

Since taking office, Commissioner Saul has undermined and politicized Social Security disability benefits, terminated the agencys telework policy that was utilized by up to 25 percent of the agencys workforce, not repaired SSAs relationships with relevant Federal employee unions including in the context of COVID-19 workplace safety planning, reduced due process protections for benefits appeals hearings, and taken other actions that run contrary to the mission of the agency and the Presidents policy agenda, the White House said in a statement to the Post.

Saul said he had made the administration more efficient and had stemmed what he said was an abuse of work from home policies.

I quite frankly feel Im doing an excellent job there, he said.

His term was due to last through 2025. Sen. Mitch McConnell, the Republican leader in the Senate, said the firing politicized the agency.

Saul, also a major donor to the Republican Party, was a classmate of Donald Trump at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

He was confirmed as Social Security Administration Commissioner in 2019 and immediately sought reforms to stem what the Trump administration officials said were fraudulent abuses of the system. Social Security beneficiaries said it became difficult to claim much-needed relief.

Saul, 74, has had a successful career in fashion and investment. He says on his official Social Security Administration biography that he formerly served as a board member of the United Jewish Appeal Federation of New York.
(JNS)  Anti-Israel activists took to social media to accuse the Israel Defense Forces of exploiting the collapse of the Champlain Towers South in Surfside, Fla.

Rafael Shimunov, a political activist from Queens, N.Y., questioned the motives of involvement by the Israeli military.

He tweeted: I really dont understand the IDFs involvement in rescue attempts of people tragically crushed under buildings in Miami. Their expertise is crushing buildings with people in them, not rescuing them.

He added: As if we dont have any expertise or technology here in the U.S. Using these tragic deaths for pro-Israel propaganda is just quite something. These forces are literally stepping over buildings they crushed with children in them to go to Miami and do a PR stunt.

Pro-Palestinian activist Linda Sarsour replied to Shiminovs tweet with fingers pointing downwards in agreement.

Imagine being such a small person youre mad about people you dont like saving lives.

Linda Sarsour is mad the IDF is saving lives in #Miami.

Remember that. pic.twitter.com/p2fUcdAqnV

 Emily Schrader  (@emilykschrader) July 5, 2021

A rescue delegation from the IDFs Home Front Command was sent to Surfside to assist in the search and recovery mission. The delegation arrived within 72 hours of the buildings collapse, helping first responders using 3D mapping and conducting a humanitarian effort to support the families of the missing.

Bnai Brith International was outraged and disgusted by the tweet and retweet from Shimunov and Sarsour.

This horrific statement comes as families are mourning the loss of loved ones and hoping for miracles in the tragic building collapse that still has 113 missing in the rubble. The IDF has worked tirelessly, as Lt. Col. Oz Gino told Hamodia, on the pile as if everybody is alive,  wrote Bnai Brith International president Charles O. Kaufman and CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin.

The tweet is not only deeply insensitive but anti-Zionist and anti-Semitic, they continued. A people that, sadly, has had to deal with bombs from Palestinian terrorists is now told it has the temerity to help people in Florida based on their own tragic experience.
(JNS) - A bipartisan group of members of the U.S. House of Representatives and Israeli officials celebrated Independence Day on Tuesday at a small event hosted by the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem.

Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett was on hand to welcome the visitors-the first official congressional delegation to travel to a foreign country since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

Since COVID required the number of attendees to remain low, the program was also livestreamed by the embassy.

In English, Bennett welcomed the guests by recalling his upbringing in the United States.

"On behalf of the people of Israel, I'd like to wish all of you a very happy Independence Day. Indeed, 245 years ago, the founding fathers of the United States of America put down those amazing words, 'We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal. That they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights, and among these are life, liberty and pursuit of happiness,' " said Bennett. "And this proclamation went down and is echoed down generations, inspiring people all around the world to follow in the footsteps of America's founders."

Bennett said that the same values inspired Israel's founding in 1948. But an even deeper connection, he said, was in the inspiration the founding fathers found in the Hebrew Bible, the Tanach, when creating the United States.

The prime minister also highlighted the ideological and racial diversity in his government and noted that he will strive to make the relationship between the two countries be bipartisan.

"You know, Israelis across the political spectrum are fundamentally pro-American. We like America. We appreciate, we admire what you're doing. And that's the way it ought to be also in America vis-a-vis Israel," he said. "And I'll challenge any attempt to make America a partisan political issue in Israel and any attempt to make Israel a partisan political issue in the United States. Our policy is bipartisan. We're friends of everyone. Because the friendship between our two democracies will always transcend party politics."

'We are going to be better'

Bennett was followed at the lectern by House Foreign Affairs Committee chairman Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.), who led the delegation for the first time as chairman of the committee.

Israel, the United States and members of Congress, affirmed Meeks, share the same values, making up an unbreakable bond between the two nations.

He said he was pleased with the bipartisan nature of the delegation, which included Reps. David Cicilline (D-R.I.), Andy Barr (R-Ky.), Abigail Spanberger (D-Va.), Sarah Jacobs (D-Calif.), Kathy Manning (D-N.C.), Nicole Malliotakis (R-N.Y.), Brad Schneider (D-Ill.) and French Hill (R-Ark.).

"When we come to Israel, we don't come as Democrats or Republicans; we come as members of the United States Congress," said Meeks.

Meeks commented on the composition of Bennett's government-the most diverse in the history of Israel-saying it will make for a better tomorrow.

Meeks, the first black chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, said he owed a debt of gratitude to Jews who stood alongside Martin Luther King Jr. and African-Americans during the heyday of the civil-rights movement, without which he would not be where he is today.

" ... People of color and people of the Jewish faith, we know what it feels like to have the world against you at times. We know what it feels like to be oppressed. And so who better to come together to lead a world and economy to say, 'We are going to be better,' " he said.

Meeks concluded his speech with the reasons the delegation picked Israel as its first foreign trip.

"We're here to make friends. We're here to talk. We're going to make friends with the Israelis. We're going to make friends with the Palestinians. We're going to make sure that we work collectively together-that Israel is safe-because we understand those who are not willing to acknowledge and understand that our friend, Israel, is here forever, those who call for its demise, will see that it is justice, and values and democracy that will long survive them, and we will make sure that they are no longer in the way of a strong Jewish state," said Meeks.

"So let me make it plain, we're going to lock arm-in-arm with you, Mr. Prime Minister, to make sure that Iran doesn't get its way," he continued. "We're going to lock arm-in-arm with you to make sure that Hamas doesn't get its way. We will lock arm-in-arm with you to make sure that the historic moment that is upon us with the Abraham Accords, that we get more people to join and say, 'Israel has the right to exist, and we're going to work with them hand-in-hand.' "

According to a news release on Monday, the delegation will next travel to Qatar, where it plans to address issues of mutual concern, including regional security threats and interests, in addition to the normalization agreement between Arab countries and Israel as part of the Abraham Accords.

The group will also visit the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) to assess the Iranian threat, America's regional security posture and spend time with deployed military personnel.
Hundreds gather on July 2, 2021, for a rally in Brighton, Mass., in support of Rabbi Shlomo Noginski, who was stabbed the day before in the same park across the street from his Jewish day school.

BOSTON (JTA) - Days after a series of violent acts stunned Greater Boston and threatened its Jewish community, residents are jolted but resolute, vowing to continue taking pride in their Jewish identity.

The latest incident occurred on Thursday, when Chabad Rabbi Shlomo Noginski was stabbed eight times outside of Shaloh House, a Jewish school and synagogue in Brighton, where he teaches.

Less than a week prior, on June 26, in Winthrop, a seaside town just north of Boston, a white supremacist who harbored virulent racist and antisemitic views murdered Air Force veteran Ramona Cooper, 60, and retired state trooper David Green, 68, both African American. The shooting took place near two synagogues and is being investigated as a hate crime.

Both episodes of violence played out during a period of high alert in the area following a June 24 pro-Palestinian protest at the New England regional offices of the Anti-Defamation League in Boston, at which a non-Jewish writer for the Zionist website CAMERA was, according to video, spat at and called a Nazi by protesters. The local Jewish Journal-Massachusetts wrote in an editorial that the ADL encounter and the double murder were both "high-profile instances of antisemitism and hate."

All three incidents worried local and national Jewish groups, but it was the attack on Noginski that proved to be the tipping point for many Jewish Bostonians. With only hours of advance notice, hundreds of people gathered Friday morning in Brighton for a rally in support of Noginski, drawing a wide swath of Greater Boston's Jewish community, its allies and scores of elected leaders, police and officials.

"Our community is feeling vulnerable," Marc Baker, president of the Combined Jewish Philanthropies of Greater Boston, said at the rally. "And we are feeling angry, wondering whether we can be safe in our own country, and our own cities."

Organized by Shaloh House, CJP, the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston and the New England branch of the ADL, the rally was held across the street from the school and synagogue where Noginski was attacked. The Russian-born rabbi, an Israeli citizen and father of 12, was released Friday from the hospital.

Police apprehended the alleged attacker, Khaled Awad, who is being held without bail until a hearing scheduled for July 8. Former friends and college roommates of Awad's, including a Jewish roommate, have described him as "violent" and "very antisemitic."

Suffolk County District Attorney Rachael Rollins is investigating both the stabbing and the shootings. She has launched a civil rights investigation to determine if the stabbing of Noginski was a hate crime.

Rollins has also sought to alert the Jewish community to the antisemitic leanings of the Winthrop shooter, 28-year-old Nathan Allen, noting that his personal writings revealed racist and antisemitic views, including drawings of swastikas, and that he may have been looking to target Jews in addition to Black people. Allen had no prior criminal record and was killed by police at the scene.

"There is no more powerful and hateful a symbol than a swastika," Rollins told the Jewish Telegraphic Agency. "When we saw that in the writings, in his own hand, he has said who he is. I know it's scary to hear, but I feel compelled to tell people there are individuals who hate and want to harm [them]."

Details like these have shocked the local Jewish community. Winthrop resident Denise Mahoney, a member of the nondenominational Temple Tifereth Israel, had gone to school with Green, one of the victims, and remained friends in their close-knit town. News of his murder had been "devastating," she said.

But attendees at Friday's rally sought to project a resilient face.

"The Jewish community is angry, but the Jewish community is united," JCRC Boston's executive director, Jeremy Burton, told the crowd. "We demand that we have the right to live. The right to walk in the street. To be visible, or not, to live our lives as Jews, fully and without fear."

His message was reinforced by Rabbi Dan Rodkin, executive director of Shaloh House.

"We are not going to sit back," Rodkin said. "We will make sure to send a strong message: Evil has no place in America."

Rodkin asked attendees to commit to eight acts of kindness, representing the eight stab wounds inflicted on Noginski.

Noginski himself told the media on Sunday, "If people want to see a miracle, they should look at me."

Speaking in Hebrew with a translator, Noginski described his harrowing ordeal in more detail, the Boston Globe reported. He said the armed attacker had been trying to force him into the school's van, leading Noginski to fear that he was being kidnapped. At an opportune moment, Noginski said, he ran across the street to draw the attacker away from the school, where kids were in summer camp.

In recovery, the rabbi said he is doubling down on bringing goodness and light into the world, by teaching and by helping more people. "And that will help me heal, and help the entire environment around me," he told reporters.

The Greater Boston area has around 248,000 Jews, and more than a quarter of Jewish households live in Brighton and the contiguous communities of Brookline and Newton, according to the 2015 Greater Boston Jewish population study conducted by the Cohen Center for Modern Jewish Studies at Brandeis University.

"Yesterday's attack left the rabbi injured and our community shaken," said Boston's acting Mayor Kim Janey. "An attack on any member of [our] community is an attack on all of us."

The attack drew support for Noginski and condemnation against antisemitism from many leaders, including Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Boston Cardinal Sean Patrick O'Malley.

Nina Baron, a 26-year-old Bostonian, was upset by the attack on the rabbi and accompanied her father to the rally. Growing up in a suburb, she didn't have that many concerns about antisemitism, she told JTA at the rally.

"This time in America is different for all marginalized groups. But as a Jew, I definitely feel different than I used to," she said.

In the Winthrop case, where there were no Jewish victims, Robert Trestan, director of the New England ADL, said he believes, as Rollins does, that sharing details of the shooter's antisemitic leanings is important. "What we learn from the investigation may help prevent future attacks," Trestan told JTA.

Trestan, who has seen some of the writings, said they caused him "a bit of a shudder, to see the written words of someone who killed two people and likely was ready to kill more for no other reason than the hatred that was in his head. His writing confirms his motive."

While the number of antisemitic incidents in Massachusetts and across New England decreased in 2020, the year of the COVID-19 pandemic, incidents against American Jews nationwide remain historically high, according to the ADL.

Rollins has taken the antisemitic angle of this incident very seriously, according to Josh Schreiber, the rabbinic intern at Tifereth Israel.

"She could have very easily downplayed this," he said.

Many Tifereth Israel congregants attended a vigil in support of the victims' families, where Schreiber gave the opening remarks.

"One of the strongest responses through a Jewish lens is for us to be part of the broader community," he said. Schreiber told JTA the synagogue will receive a grant from the CJP to bolster security.

Mahoney was alarmed when she heard from her son, a transit police officer, that the shooting was fueled by racism and antisemitism.

But she will not heed her son's suggestion that she tuck her two Star of David necklaces inside her shirt to hide her Jewish identity, as some Jews in America have said they are considering doing.

"I am not going to allow someone's hatred to change my behavior," she said. "That would allow his hatred to win."
Once again this fall, Jewish high school students in the North Orlando area will have a unique opportunity to earn college credits while exploring the tenets of Judaism.

Over the last year, the stock market came to a crashing halt only to rebound to record highs. Oil prices fell below $0 a barrel and cryptocurrency exploded. Millions lost their source of income and the president of the United States sent checks in the mail.

As we experience a time of profound economic flux, CTeenU's newest course invites high school students to take a deep dive into an exploration of the Torah's take on money, stress and success, while earning up to three private college credits.

Titled, "CTeenU Business School," the course is the product of CTeen U, a collaboration between Yeshiva University and the Chabad teen network, CTeen International.

Yeshiva University is the world's premier Jewish institution for higher education, home to a network of undergraduate and graduate programs. Their undergraduate programs offer a unique dual curriculum comprising Jewish studies and liberal arts, sciences, and business courses.

CTeen is the world's fastest growing network of Jewish teens, with over 600 chapters in 37 countries on 6 continents.

In CTeen U, Yeshiva University and CTeen have carefully curated courses that will appeal to Jewish high school students from any background. No previous Judaic knowledge is required.

The curriculum is designed to encourage teens to ask questions and apply Jewish thought to their everyday activities.

The CTeen chapter at Chabad of North Orlando has already hosted a successful CTeenU course last year. Teens have debated and discussed, assessed and applied Judaism's philosophy and thought and its practical application in the modern world. CTeen U's relevant and engaging curriculum on the tenets of Judaism cultivates a strong sense of purpose and Jewish identity. Formulated to be relevant, interesting, and fun, CTeen U students actually look forward to their classes.

CTeen U Business School will examine questions such as, "Is self worth defined by net worth?" "Does G-d care if I use a friend's Netflix?" and "Is my stuff also your stuff?" The course will engage students in examining the Torah's view on Labor Unions, poverty prevention and yachts and analyze whether Judaism prefers Socialism over Capitalism.

Zoe Carmi, a junior at Mount Dora High School said, "I've attended a CTeen U course already. I learned so much about who I am as a person and as a Jew, and it's made me think deeply about mundane things that occur in everyday life. I'm really looking forward to what I'll discover in this coming course."

As in the past, once a week, CTeen U students meet at Chabad of North Orlando to be greeted by Rabbi Yanky Majesky. The small group setting makes it possible for the instructor to get to know each student, and for the students to bond with each other as they study.

"I know how busy teens are preparing for college - this is an opportunity for them to advance their resume and college career while studying the Torah's timeless wisdom," said Rabbi Majesky. "I am constantly inspired by the enthusiasm and curiosity students bring to each class."

Yeshiva University credits are accepted at many colleges around the country, including highly selective schools, state colleges, liberal arts colleges, public flagships, specialized programs, and many more.

The course is available to 10th, 11th, and 12th graders. Classes will be held once a week for 21 weeks, starting Sept. 12, 2021. Tution for the year is $1399 with an early bird discount of $100 off when registering before Sept. 1, and entering promo code: Early Bird. Scholarships are available and no one is turned away due to lack of funds.

To register or for more information visit cteenu.com and choose the North Orlando chapter or call Chabad at 407-636-5994.
Central Florida Hillel kicked off its 20th anniversary with a tree planting on Sunday, July 11. The year 2021 marks the 20th year that Central Florida Hillel has been recognized as a Jewish organization by the Greater Orlando Jewish Federation.

Central Florida Hillel would not be where it is today without the support of the Orlando Jewish community. UCF Hillel has supported thousands of Jewish knights as well as students from Stetson University, Rollins College, Valencia Community College, Seminole State University and Full Sail University on their Jewish journeys over the past 20 years. Not only are we a place for students to feel comfortable, we act as a catalyst for students to become the next generation of leaders. We combat anti-semitism on campus and provide Israel education through programs and Birthright sponsored trips as well as bringing students to the AIPAC conference.

The tree planting was for alumni, present and past board members, as well as the Orlando community to feel proud of how far CF Hillel has come. In the Jewish religion, a tree signifies planting the way for the future and laying down roots in the community. The tree is generously donated by Landscape Systems Inc. and the White family.
Reports about the Arabs who live in Judea and Samaria is always covered in the mainstream media - their living conditions, their suffering, their plight, etc. There is not much coverage about Jews who live in Judea and Samaria and are successfully creating community and building businesses through many struggles while living in the midst of constant danger or fears of being evacuated because they live in certain areas. Some call these settled lands Israeli-annexed land, others claim it is "occupied" territory. Nevertheless, Jews are settling in Judea and Samaria - claiming the land of their forefathers.

Rabbi Jeremy Gimpel is one of these halutzim - pioneers, settlers. He will be in Winter Springs on Aug. 1 to talk about life on a Judean farm and the struggles he and his family and his partner, Rabbi Ari Abramowitz, have overcome in the three years since they settled in Ma'ale Amos, just south of Gush Etzion.

Rabbi Jeremy Gimpel is a Sgt. Major in the IDF reserves, he is also one of Israel's internationally acclaimed media personalities. He and Abramowitz have been sharing the truth about Israel for more than 20 years. The two-man team has created many short documentaries about Israel and have produced music videos that have had more than 20 million views on YouTube. They founded The Land of Israel Network, an English-language broadcast that shares the truth about Israel with the world.

These two men with their families and two other families founded Arugot Farms in 2018. They are building a working organic farm and a spiritual retreat center, which should open this summer. When they first moved to this mountaintop, there was no electricity, no water and no vegetation. In just three years, they have cultivated more than 5,000 fruit trees, organic vineyards, developed an innovative ecological pool and shepherd a flock of sheep.

Pastor Roger Diaz of Fellowship Church and Laurie Cardoza-Moore, president and founder of Proclaiming Justice to the Nations, will host Gimpel as he speaks about current events in Judea - the political and social climate of the area he lives in, which is located within "Enclave #8" - and the spiritual/educational retreat, agricultural work farm and global tourist destination he and Abramowitz envision Arugot Farms becoming.

Co-host Cardoza-Moore also will speak about her involvement in calling upon the Israeli government to ban GOD TV from airing missionary content focused on converting Jews to Christianity.

"At a time when global antisemitism is engulfing the world, GOD TV should be using its platform to teach Christians about their biblical responsibility to stand with our Jewish brethren and the State of Israel. Instead, they have chosen to stand on the wrong side of history, empowering the antisemites," she stated.

Cardoza-Moore is well-known among Jewish and Christian communities for speaking out against antisemitism, removal of antisemitic lessons in high school textbooks, and pushing for Holocaust education in all public schools. She has been recognized by The President's Council of The National Religious Broadcasters; The "Top 100 People Positively Impacting Israel" by the Algemeiner; awarded the "Friend of Israel Award" by The Center For Jewish Awareness and the "Goodwill Ambassador to Israel Award" given by Israel Consul General of the Israeli Foreign Ministry, just to name a few of her myriad of accomplishments and recognitions.

Laurie Cardoza-Moore

This event will be held at Fellowship Church, located at 5340 Red Bug Lake Road, Winter Springs, on Sunday evening, Aug. 1 at 7 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, call the church office at 407-699-1011 or contact Fellowship at fellowshipassistant@gmail.com.
(JNS)  Former Labor Party leader and Jewish Agency chairman Isaac Herzog was sworn in as Israels 11th president on Wednesday, saying he would work to repair divisions within Israeli society.

The ceremony took place at the Knesset in Jerusalem and marked the end of Reuven Rivlins seven-year term.

The 60-year-old son of the sixth president of Israel, Chaim Herzog, also served as the countrys ambassador to the United Nations.

He was sworn in using the same 107-year-old Torah that his father used, which has long been in the family.

In his inauguration speech, Herzog pronounced that he will be a president for all while warning that Israels common ethos and shared values are more fragile than ever.

He said that baseless hatred, polarization and division are exacting a very heavy price  the heaviest price is the erosion of our national resilience. My mission, the goal of my presidency, is to do everything to rebuild hope.

In his parting speech, Rivlin also urged Israelis to come together as one and rebuild civilian unity.

The Jewish state is not something to be taken for granted. A democratic state is not something to be taken for granted, he said. And there will be no Israel if it is not democratic and Jewish, Jewish and democratic, in the same breath.

Herzog will not formally move into the presidents residence until after the observance of Tisha BAv (July 17-18), the saddest day on the Jewish calendar, which is marked by a 25-hour fast. He is respecting the period of three weeks between 17 Tammuz and the ninth of Av, which is a time of mourning for the destruction of the ancient First and Second Temples, as well as other devastating events in Jewish history.
Israel just inaugurated a new president. He is largely a ceremonial figure as the official head of state. He has a limited but very structured constitutional role. Nonetheless, amazingly, he is a Palestinian.

Isaac Bougie Herzog is Israels 11th president. His father was also (Israels sixth) president, Chaim Herzog. He was also a Palestinian.

How do I know this? Because I am a Palestinian too. What?!! you ask. But Jonathan, youre Jewish. How ...

Yes. Stick with me.

The new President Herzogs grandfather was Israels renowned first chief rabbi. He was a Palestinian. Rabbi Yitzhak HaLevi Herzog became chief rabbi of Palestine in 1936.

But wait Jonathan, this doesnt make sense.

Rabbi Herzog was appointed as chief rabbi when Britain occupied Palestine. He immigrated from Ireland where he had been chief rabbi since 1921.

Palestine was an administrative territory of Britain following World War I, succeeding the Ottoman control of the same territory (from 1516 until 1917), also occupied by many others including the Crusaders, Moslems, going back to Rome in the first century. Rome renamed it Palestine as a slap in the face of the indigenous, and then captive, Jewish community, and as an attempt to erase Jewish history.

But Palestine never existed as an independent entity much less a state. It never had a capital, a currency, a king or sultan. It simply existed as an administrative territory fought over and conquered by successive empires. The list of occupiers is long. But it was always the Land of Israel.

Jonathan, I still dont get it. How you and President Herzog are Palestinians?

When the British occupied Palestine following the 1917 League of Nations Mandate, it was populated by Arabs and Jews. The population grew as Jews started returning to the Land during the previous century, and as Arabs from nearby lands began migrating to benefit from the opportunities and prosperity that increased with the Jews return.

When people today speak of the indigenous Arabs, or suggest that the reestablishment of Jewish sovereignty is in any way foreign, while its of course indisputable that there were indigenous Arabs, many of todays Arab clans are known to be relative modern transplants. Their names, Masri, Hejazi, Halabi and others give away the fact that their relatives came from Egypt, Arabia, and Syria, as recent as a century ago.

Underscoring that Palestine was desolate and largely uninhabited, in 1867 Mark Twain visited and exposed the Lands nakedness in his book, The Innocents Abroad. This was a decade and a half before the Jewish people started returning en mass, making the Land flourish as prophesied. (Ezekiel 36:8 says But you, mountains of Israel, will produce branches and fruit for my people Israel, for they will soon come home.)

When Twain visited, Palestine had a population of about 300,000-350,000. Had he come back 20-30 years later, hed have seen something very different. The Land did begin to produce fruit. The population exploded. By the time the British arrived, the population had doubled. While Jewish immigration accounted for some of this, its impossible to explain the Arab growth as anything but the migration of Arabs from throughout the Middle East. Natural growth of the Arab population from fewer than 300,000 to nearly 600,000 is implausible.

At the time, Twain called it like he saw it. Arriving via Europe, Twain got to see length and breadth of Palestine intimately. There is not a solitary village throughout its whole extent  not for 30 miles in either direction. There are two or three small clusters of Bedouin tents, but not a single permanent habitation. One may ride 10 miles, hereabouts, and not see 10 human beings. In case he was to be confused as being rhetorical, Twain underscored, Of all the lands there are for dismal scenery, I think Palestine must be the prince ... Can the curse of the Deity beautify a land? Palestine sits in sackcloth and ashes. Over it broods the spell of a curse that has withered its fields and fettered its energies.

When the British took control, Palestine had already benefitted from decades of Jewish prosperity. Historically, when the British referred to Palestinians they only referred to the Jews.

When Rabbi Herzog arrived in 1936, some years after my grandparents did, they were the Palestinians.

Documents registering my fathers birth (and that of the first President Herzog) were part of the British administration of Palestine. They controlled the territory with a hard hand. After dividing the territory of Mandatory Palestine they inherited, with the actual mandate to establish a Jewish homeland, they carved off 80 percent to create a new Arab state (todays Jordan), worked against Jewish sovereignty, armed and emboldened the Arabs, and actively prevented Jews from immigrating, even after the Nazis rise to power and beginning of the slaughter of the Jews of Europe.

While my father grew up with Rabbi Herzog as chief rabbi in the 30s and 40s, the Holocaust raged, and my fathers family was slaughtered, he and my grandparents were called Palestinians. So was Rabbi Herzog, and so was his son who would become Israels sixth president. Not only is the current President Herzog a Palestinian, all but one of Israels previous presidents were as well.

While Israeli Jews ceased to be called Palestinians upon declaring independence, the fact is that not until almost two decades later did the Arabs adopt this term and identity. When they did so, Jordan controlled whats today known as the West Bank, and Egypt controlled Gaza. The new Palestinians were controlled by two different Arab regimes who not only did not give them citizenship, but let the refugee status fester of those who fled the 1947-49 war.

Israel gave full citizenship and equal rights to the Arabs who remained. Today, they make up 20 percent of Israels population, and are integrated throughout society. The Palestinians however have done nothing to build a state, or the infrastructure needed for that, continue to deny Israels right to exist, and actively incite, promote, and engage in terror against Israels population. Conversely, todays Palestinians have created a system thats unique in the history of the world: bestowing refugee status on, now, five generations of Arabs displaced from 1947-49, and not allowing them to settle as citizens of anywhere, especially since the State of Palestine that some recognize is an historical mirage.

I was in Jerusalems Machane Yehuda market a few years ago and found a Palestinian coin from 1937; the year in which my father was born. I tried to hide my elation so as not to have the price marked up. Albeit with writing in Arabic, Hebrew, and English, the Hebrew whispers a secret that must be shared. First, that of course Jews belonged there. One does not merely add an ancient language of a people to the currency of a place in which they have no roots. Today, when people challenge that, try to deny and erase our history, and bemoan what they call efforts to Judaize Jerusalem, this underscores our historical presence.

However, only in the Hebrew does one see the real secret revealed. Following the name Palestine, there are two Hebrew letters, aleph and yud. This is an abbreviation for the Hebrew Eretz Yisrael, or Land of Israel. Those two letters underscore the entire biblical history of the Land, not a place to which Jews have come as foreign occupiers, but to which we have returned home. In fact, had the Land of Israel not been synonymous with the Jews, and therefore the Bible, Twain and his church group would have had no particular reason to visit.

Three decades ago, I had the honor to deliver a speech at the presidents residence before President Chaim Herzog. I spoke about Zionism, as a fulfillment of a centuries-old dream of our return. Anyone who suggests that it is anything otherwise is, generously, at best confusing their facts.

Forget that the Palestine Liberation Organization was not born until the year I was born, and that until then, there was no consistent hijacking of the term Palestinian as there has been in reference to the Arabs of the Land of Israel. Again, an historical fact. I ask people who doubt this one simple question: What if, in 1948, upon declaring independence, the founders of Israel decided to call it Palestine?

What would the PLO terrorist group established in 1964 (before the so-called occupation of the Six Day War) have called itself? The Canaanite Liberation Organization? The Popular Front for the Liberation of the Sanjak of Jerusalem? Galileean Jihad?

Congratulations to President Herzog. Bringing in his family history, and diplomatic and political expertise, I pray that he will succeed in being the leader that his father and grandfather were before him. May he use a foundation of facts and actual history to be a unifying source of healing in the Land that is thriving but still not yet blessed by peace.

U.S.-born and educated Jonathan Feldstein immigrated to Israel in 2004. Throughout his life and career, he has fellowshipped with Christian supporters of Israel and shares experiences of living as an Orthodox Jew in Israel. He writes a regular column for Standing With Israel at charismanews.com and other prominent web sites. He can be reached at firstpersonisrael@gmail.com.
JFS Orlando CARES, the emergency rental assistance program of Jewish Family Services of Greater Orlando, provided relief for those impacted financially by COVID-19 since October 2020. With the completion of the program on June 30, 2021, JFS Orlando distributed more than $884,043.39 in rental assistance to help 339 families remain housed, impacting a total of 860 individuals.

Dedicated to providing relief to those severely impacted during the pandemic, JFS Orlando CARES was open to Orange County residents and provided up to three months of rental assistance to qualified individuals. One of those individuals was Melissa. The process was easy, professional, and someone always responded, she explained. You have no idea how nice it is to be talked to kindly. Thank you for giving me one bright day in whats been many dark ones.

The program was made possible through a Housing and Community Development grant as part of the CARES Act and in partnership with the TOP Jewish Foundation and the Jewish Capital Alliance. We are grateful to our partners who helped in the success of this program, which provided much needed financial relief for those in our community struggling to pay their rent during the pandemic, said Phil Flynn, JFS executive director.

For more information on JFS Orlando and its other programs, visit http://www.JFSorlando.org or follow them on social media @JFSorlando.
(JNS)  At the end of June, the new Israeli government led by Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett approved 31 new building projects throughout Judea and Samaria. The projects were green-lighted by the subcommittee on Jewish settlements within the Civil Administration.

A Civil Administration spokesperson shared the list of approvals with JNS, which include the construction or enlargement of public buildings within various communities, such as a new shopping mall in Mishor Adumim just outside of Jerusalem, and a school for students with special needs in Elkana, east of Tel Aviv, along with new or upgraded buildings to house religious institutions and a total of five new private homes.

Among those who support expanding the Jewish presence in Judea and Samaria, some view the approvals as a positive development. Others, however, expressed their frustration, indicating that the 31 new projects  with just five residential homes  are token approvals and fall far short of expectations, based on the hundreds if not thousands of other building requests by local councils or residents.

At the same time, there are those who oppose Israel approving any new building projects for Jewish residents of Judea and Samaria, as they consider them to be obstacles to peace with the Arabs living under the Palestinian Authority.

Oded Revivi, mayor of the Gush Etzion community of Efrat, expressed his gratitude for the approval of several projects in his town. He told JNS that all development in Judea and Samaria should be seen as a tangible demonstration of the recognition by the Israeli government of the permanence and strategic necessity of the continued growth of Judea and Samaria.

He added, While we fully anticipate further development, especially of residential units, I am encouraged by this announcement, as it should have the support of the broad center-left government, further demonstrating how the growth of Judea and Samaria is becoming a consensus issue in Israel.

Elnatan Scharia, spokesman for the Yesha Council, the umbrella group representing the communities of Judea and Samaria, told JNS that his group felt the approvals were rather insignificant.

What was approved by the [Civil Administration] subcommittee two weeks ago did not truly include building plans for residential housing units. This was not an official meeting of the [Civil Administrations] Higher Planning Council, which approves large quantities of residential units, in order to meet the great housing demand in Judea and Samaria, he said.

We have been waiting for half a year, since January, for housing approvals, and it still hasnt happened, continued Scharia. The Higher Planning Council must meet immediately to approve the construction of housing units throughout Judea and Samaria. We have waited long enough.

Turn the ship in the direction of peace

While the Yesha Council remains disappointed with the scarcity of new building permits, Hagit Ofran, from the Settlement Watch Project of Peace Now, shared her organizations complete opposition to the 31 new approvals.

Any building permit in the settlements is detrimental to Israel and distances us from the prospect of peace. One of the biggest challenges of the new government is to change the policy regarding the occupied territories. After many years in which the Israeli government did everything to prevent the prospect of peace, it is about time to turn the ship in the direction of peace and first of all to stop construction in the settlements, read the text of a statement released by the organization.

At the same time, Scharia explained that last week, the Yesha Council met with Israels new Interior Minister Ayelet Shaked from the Yamina Party. A joint statement released following the meeting said that the two sides did discuss the fact that building approvals have been stalled as the Higher Planning Council hasnt met in six months.

Shaked said in the statement that her ministry is greatly committed to the communities of Judea and Samaria, to the wonderful residents and the amazing council heads.

She added, I paid close attention to the problems facing the community heads and their staff, and I am here to fight and act on their behalf. The current government will require a great deal of creativity, but I pledge that every effort will be made to resolve complex issues in order to develop the communities of Judea and Samaria.

Scharia would not confirm an Israel Hayom report indicating that Shaked told members of the Yesha Council in attendance at the meeting that the status quo on building in Judea and Samaria would remain in place with the Higher Planning Council set to convene every three months in order to discuss the approval of construction, per a coalition agreement between Yamina and Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz.

Even if the report is accurate, its unlikely that Gush Etzion Regional Council head Shlomo Neeman would find hope in a Shaked-Gantz agreement.

Last month, Neeman accused Gantz of cutting a deal with U.S. President Joe Biden and his administration to block new Jewish construction in Judea and Samaria. Neeman refused to divulge his sources on the accusation of an official building freeze reached between Biden and Gantz.

However, he said it was Gantz who was preventing the Higher Planning Council from meeting, thus already causing a de facto building freeze in Judea and Samaria even before the formation of the current government.

In 2009, under severe pressure from U.S. President Barak Obama, then-Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agreed to a 10-month building freeze on construction in Judea and Samaria to try and restart peace talks with the Palestinian Authority. That freeze did not lead to any tangible developments on the peace front.
(JNS)  During a symposium about online anti-Semitism sponsored by the U.S. State Department last year, a representative from the social-media platform TikTok assured that his company was working to combat hate.

Speaking in October 2020, Jeff Collins said TikToks mission is to inspire and bring joy.  Theres no place for hate on TikTok, and we are investing a lot in people and tech to really get this right.

The goal, stated Collins, was to disrupt the ecosystem of hate by limiting the discoverability of such content. His comments coincided with a change in the platforms terms of use designed to prevent the spread of hate online.

Yet despite these efforts, a study out of Israel found a staggering 912 percent increase in anti-Semitic comments and a nearly 1,400 percent rise of anti-Semitic user names on the social-media platform as compared to 2020representing a rise in actual numbers from 41 to 415, and from four to 59, respectively, from 2020 to 2021.

The study was conducted jointly by Gabriel Weinmann, a professor at the University of Haifa, and Natalie Masri, a research assistant at IDC Herzliyas Institute for Counter-Terrorism.

Weinmann and Masri examined online postings, comments and usernames in a four-month period in 2021, comparing them to 2020 data. What they discovered was significant Jew-hatred on the site, which is especially popular with younger people. More than 40 percent of the sites 1.2 billion users are between the ages of 16 and 24.

TikTok claims on its homepage that it is raw, real and without boundaries,  the study concluded. But the lack of boundaries, combined with the growing success of this platform, makes it an ideal virtual home for hate speech and extremist content.

It is the second recent report to examine Jew-hatred on TikTok.

The Anti-Defamation League posted its own observations last month, saying a recent review of the platform found that anti-Semitism continues to percolate across the app, including content from known anti-Semitic figures, as well as posts perpetuating age-old anti-Semitic tropes and conspiracy theories.

However, the ADL did state that its review of TikTok was not intended to quantify the amount or prevalence of anti-Semitism on the platform, but rather to offer an impressionistic sense of the type of anti-Semitic content that can be found with only a few taps. It should be noted that when alerted to the content ADL COE [Center on Extremism] found, TikTok took down the specific content.
Ilan Naibryf served as a leader in the University of Chicago Jewish community. He is missing in the building collapse in Surfside, Florida.

(JTA) - Rabbi Anna Levin Rosen has counseled Jewish students at the University of Chicago through crises before. But she says the last two weeks have been "devastating."

First, Ilan Naibryf, 21, disappeared in last month's Surfside, Florida, building collapse. He had been visiting with his girlfriend, Deborah Berezdivin, whose family owned two units in the building; neither of them has been found yet.

Then, last week, Max Lewis, 20, was struck by a stray bullet while riding the train back from his internship at a finance firm. Paralyzed from the neck down, he died on Sunday after he asked to be taken off life support.

Levin Rosen, who is the rabbi of the university's Hillel, visited Lewis' hospital the morning he died, standing in a circle with 15 of his family members and friends and leading them in reciting the Shema and singing Psalm 121, which is about trusting in God during hard times.

"The fabric of our community has been irreparably torn through these tragedies," she said. "There's a combination of unimaginable devastation for all who knew them, especially those who were friends with both, and the desire to be present for each other and support each other knowing that that's the best thing we can do to give honor to what matters most to them."

Both Lewis and Naibryf were prominent members of the University of Chicago's small Jewish community, which numbers around 800 among an undergraduate student body of about 6,700. Naibryf, a rising senior, was president of the Chabad Student Board and an outspoken advocate for Israel. Lewis, a rising junior, was the president of the campus chapter of AEPi, the Jewish fraternity.

Baila Brackman, who runs the university's Chabad center with her husband, Rabbi Yossi Brackman, said both students were inquisitive, caring and energetic.

"They were precious young men whom we cared about deeply and loved deeply," she said. "Both of them always had a huge smile. Their smiles just brightened up the room. They were very happy, kind, caring and giving. Not once did I hear them say a bad word about someone."

Brackman said that Naibryf became active in Chabad as a freshman and that she and her husband came to view him as a family member, "almost a sibling" to their kids. When the pandemic hit, she said, he came up with ideas for Zoom programs to keep students engaged.

"He was unapologetic about Israel and how much he loved Israel, and he wanted to make sure that students had the history of Israel," Baila Brackman said. "He worked very hard to make sure there was a lot of Jewish pride on campus. He would just come into the Chabad house, just smile and say, 'What can I do and how can I help?'"

A similar spirit animated Lewis, said his best friend and roommate, Zach Cogan. Cogan said Lewis, an avid runner and car enthusiast, was the kind of person you could talk to about anything, "the most kind person." Cogan recalled that during the pandemic, Lewis stayed on campus to make sure he was there for other AEPi brothers.

"For Max, there was nothing bad you could possibly say about him," said Cogan. "He was the best of us. He was so caring and selfless, and he never asked anybody for anything."

The past few days have been "extremely difficult and taxing," Cogan said. "I've gone to text him several times and realize he's not here, and it's crushing."

A fundraiser in Lewis' memory, set up by Cogan and another friend, has raised $67,287 as of Tuesday evening, more than triple its $20,000 goal. Cogan is also helping students go to Lewis' funeral in Denver, and says as many as 70 or 80 might go.

"With the loss of Ilan in Miami and Max with this horrific senseless shooting, it is super unfortunate for the Jewish community of UChicago to have lost two incredible people," Cogan said. "There are people who, in your first encounter with them, you kind of know - 'Wow, that's a great person.' And Ilan and Max both had that effect."

Now, Levin Rosen and the Brackmans are figuring out how to comfort their students over the summer and once school restarts in the fall. They held a joint Shabbat dinner for students and Lewis' relatives on Friday. They're helping students access professional counseling and are reaching out to Lewis' and Naibryf's friends to check in. The Brackmans hope to memorialize both students, perhaps dedicating a portion of the Chabad building in their memory.

But they're also struggling with what Brackman, who has worked on campus for 20 years, called "one of our most difficult weeks."

Max Lewis served as a leader in the University of Chicago Jewish community. Lewis died after being hit by a stray bullet.

"Why????????" the Brackmans posted Sunday, shortly after Lewis' death, on a joint Facebook account. "There's no answer. Our hearts just break, again."
Louisiana state Rep. Valarie Hodges sits with author David Barton during a May debate on a bill of Hodges' that would have mandated Holocaust education in the state.

(JTA) - At first, Danny Mintz was excited to learn that lawmakers in his state, Louisiana, were considering mandating Holocaust education in public schools.

A director at a good-government group called the Louisiana Budget Project, Mintz knew that the local Jewish federation was encouraging his synagogue's board to back the bill. In a state where a notorious Holocaust denier, David Duke, had been the Republican candidate for governor in 1991, clearly there was a need for more Holocaust education.

But Mintz had second thoughts once he began learning more about the content and the backers of the proposed legislation. Its sponsor, a Republican state representative named Valarie Hodges, had also expressed disagreement toward teaching the histories of other racial and religious minorities. Some of the original bill's language seemed to suggest that lessons on the Holocaust would be framed partially as a celebration of the American military. And during debate, the bill's supporters would "deploy Jews rhetorically, without involving Jews," he said.

"As a Jew, I thought to myself, who are you who's making this argument?" Mintz told the Jewish Telegraphic Agency.

He soon began telling fellow board members at Shir Chadash Conservative Congregation, in the New Orleans suburb of Metairie, that the bill was more complicated than it appeared.

The Shir Chadash board decided not to weigh in on the legislation. And it wasn't alone: While the regional chapter of the Anti-Defamation League and the New Orleans Jewish Federation backed the bill, several of the state's Jewish community leaders declined to endorse it.

Ultimately the bill died in the State Senate. Still, its short life was notable because of how it functioned as a front in the battle between right-wing white lawmakers and progressive Black lawmakers over critical race theory, an academic framework for teaching race and history that has become a target for conservatives at statehouses and school board meetings across the country.

The Holocaust education bill seemed potentially uncontroversial when Hodges introduced the measure in April. The original text simply called for "instruction regarding World War II and the Holocaust for middle and high school students and training for teachers relative to such instruction."

Many Jewish groups have called for exactly that kind of requirement, arguing that education is the key to increasing tolerance and preventing genocides in the future. Currently, 17 states require some form of Holocaust education in schools. Louisiana, which one study pegged as having one of the lowest percentages of Holocaust-aware young people in the U.S., is seen as especially in need of similar mandates. The state also recently became the new home of the Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience, boosting the visibility of Jews in the region.

But as lawmakers held hearings on the bill, it became clear that many of its supporters had a different vision - starting with Hodges, an evangelical ex-missionary and prominent conservative who has served in the Louisiana State Legislature for a decade. Hodges initially accepted, then declined, an interview with JTA.

On her professional Facebook page during the bill's debate period, Hodges shared an image of Hitler with a caption calling him "everything today's liberal craves." Another post compared Nazi Germany to critical race theory and the New York Times' 1619 Project, writing, "World War II was about RACE, yet liberals objected to it being included in my bill ... Hitler had been laying the groundwork for at least 15 years before the Holocaust. It began with the organization of college students who would be the ones to help him implement his reign of horror."

During hearings, Hodges made her arguments while seated beside David Barton, founder of the Texas-based advocacy group Wallbuilders, which aims to promote the idea that the U.S. is an inherently Christian nation founded on biblical principles.

No one representing a Jewish organization testified on behalf of the bill. One Jew who did was Ari Morgenstern, the senior director of policy and communications at the evangelical Zionist organization Christians United for Israel.

Also testifying was a Metairie resident named Dennis Burke, who did not identify himself as belonging to any organization but delivered a long statement inveighing against communism.

"To put it in Holocaust terms, the communists are now the Nazis and we are the Jews. They are the predators. We are the prey," Burke testified at the debate while seated next to Hodges. "We need to teach this history to our future citizens so we don't end up like the Jews."

Besides the matter of how the bill was debated, some on the left also were alarmed by Hodges' education record. In 2012 she publicly withdrew support for private-school vouchers in Louisiana after learning that parents would be able to direct tax dollars to Muslim schools as well as Christian ones.

"Unfortunately it will not be limited to the [U.S.] founders' religion," she said at the time before falsely claiming, "There are a thousand Muslim schools that have sprung up recently."

Earlier this year, Hodges threw her support behind a colleague's bill aiming to prevent critical race theory and other "divisive topics" from being taught in schools and universities by barring teachers from telling students that either Louisiana or the U.S. is "systematically racist or sexist." The bill failed after its sponsor said that students should be taught about "the good, the bad, the ugly" of slavery, prompting bipartisan anger. (The bill itself was one of 26 efforts proposed or passed this spring nationally by conservatives on the state level alarmed by the prospect of critical race theory being taught in public schools.)

And the same month she proposed the Holocaust education bill, Hodges authored a legislation that would require elementary and middle schools to teach "the founding principles of the U.S.," which the bill defined as "free enterprise system, the benefits of capitalism, private property, constitutional liberties, the value of a constitutional republic, and traditional standards of moral values." (That bill is still pending, in amended form.)

"You're saying, 'You have to teach the history of Holocaust, but you can't teach the history of institutionalized, deeply embedded racism in the United States,'" said Jim Grossman, executive director of the American Historical Association, a professional group for historians that has joined a statement opposing the new rollout of bills focused on restricting the teaching of certain ideas in history.

"The irony is, you cannot understand the Holocaust without understanding institutional racism," Grossman said. "Millions of Germans didn't suddenly become antisemitic."

Louisiana's blending of Holocaust education into this larger debate is unique among the states pushing new race-based education guidelines - although Florida's State Board of Education recently banned Holocaust denial alongside critical race theory as two examples of ideas that could "distort historical events."

Hodges' record and political orientation turned off some potential supporters.

"While we appreciate the impulse toward more Holocaust education, we also are distressed by the context in which this bill came forth," said Rabbi Katie Bauman of Touro Synagogue, a Reform congregation in New Orleans.

The New Orleans Jewish Federation and the regional chapter of the ADL argued that Louisiana's low Holocaust literacy is reason enough to support any plan for Holocaust education, regardless of who is behind it. In a letter to the State Senate, the two organizations argued that "the need for Holocaust and genocide education in our schools could not be more urgent." They also noted Louisiana's particularly low "Holocaust education score," a state-by-state statistic calculated by the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany.

"We could not, as an organization, not be supporting Holocaust education," Arnie Fielkow, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans, told JTA. "That would have been a very bad message to the rest of the state."

But several members of Louisiana's Legislative Black Caucus argued that the bill's focus on the Holocaust is exclusionary, especially following Republican attempts to restrict the teaching of the history of racism in the U.S.

"History includes us all," Rep. Tammy Phelps, a Democrat from Shreveport and a member of the Legislative Black Caucus, argued during debate over the bill. "If we're going to teach it, I think we've got to teach it all."

Rep. Royce Duplessis of New Orleans quizzed Hodges about the history of the Middle Passage, in which people were abducted from Africa to the Americas as part of the transatlantic slave trade. Hodges replied that she was unaware of the history.

Duplessis told JTA that he unequivocally supports Holocaust education. But, he said, "when the Legislature makes it its business to cherry-pick certain areas that they find important - well, what about things other people find important?"

Attempts to broaden the bill's focus initially met resistance. An amendment introduced by Rep. Ted James, a Democrat from Baton Rouge, also would have mandated teaching about significant figures from Black history. But that failed in the state house, as did one by Malinda B. White of Bogalusa that would have added material regarding women's history.

"The majority of my colleagues don't want to have a difficult conversation about race," Duplessis said. "I don't think it's warranted, but they perceive it as a threat to their own livelihood, their own way of viewing the world, or the way they view their parents or their grandparents."

Grossman, who is Jewish, classified the bill's pivot to Holocaust education as "a blatant appeal to Jewish voters."

He added: "This culture war is about white people. It's about scaring white voters. And Jews are white. By invoking the Holocaust, what some of these politicians seem to be doing is saying to Jews, 'We're on your side.' And they're not."

Some amendments to the bill did pass. One broadened the scope of required instruction to include the internment of Japanese Americans and the contributions of "the Tuskegee Airmen and other African American soldiers and Asian American soldiers" to the war effort. Another made the elected state Board of Education, not any body appointed by lawmakers, responsible for enforcement.

That latter point was important to some of the bill's critics.

"Because I care so deeply about Holocaust education, I want to make sure that the right part of the government, that can make the most meaningful teacher training programs and curricular requirements, should be responsible," said Davida Finger, a Jewish law professor at Loyola University New Orleans who has served on the advisory council for the local federation's multicultural outreach initiative.

Bauman agreed.

"We do feel it's important that the broader community confront the reality of the Holocaust and the specific impact it had on the Jewish people," she said. But, Bauman added, she was not interested in monopolizing the historical conversation, saying "We feel very strongly that we want to be in solidarity with other marginalized groups."

The amendments made the bill more palatable for some of its initial critics, but not for Hodges. The legislator wrote on Facebook that the changes had "gutted the bills." She stopped pushing the legislation, meaning it did not get the vote it would have needed to become law.

"I think this one was amended in a way where the author felt like there was no need to push it," Duplessis said. "The amendments that were made effectively gutted the bill, so she just felt like it wasn't even worth it. I don't know all of the inside politics, but that's my guess."
(JNS) Students for Justice in Palestine at the University of Massachusetts Boston put together a March for Palestine at the Massachusetts State House on June 24. The event began with a UMass Boston SJP member taking the microphone and telling the crowd that participants would be marching to the local offices of the Anti-Defamation League and the Jewish Community Relations Council. The choice of these locations seemed interesting, given that the Israeli Consulate is only a short walk away from the State House.

Im so sorry; Im still learning about this stuff, the speaker remarked about the above two organizations that SJP was protesting, clarifying that they were marching to these offices because the ADL has funded trips for police to receive counter-terrorism training in Israel, while the JCRC has paid for state lawmakers to visit Israel.

Without providing a shred of evidence, she suggested that these trips for police have resulted in an escalation of militarization and lethality of Massachusetts police. She also asserted that trips to Israel for lawmakers poison[s] our representatives and constitute an investment in white supremacy.

Clearly, the purpose of her speech was to blame Israel and American-Jewish organizations for domestic issues in the United States that center on race. The logic of such a stunt is simple: Listeners otherwise uninvolved in anti-Israel movements may glom on to their demagogic antics if masqueraded as justice.

This attempt to Americanize the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was followed by the demand that the ADL and JCRC set up a truth council and pay restitution to black and indigenous communities that they have harmed in Massachusetts.

Regardless of how baseless their accusations, their intent is to defame, demonize and isolate the majority of American Jews and Zionists from any kind of social-justice movement.

Another speaker, a Boston University SJP member who identified himself as Chance, referred to the ADL, the JCRC and a bunch of other Zionist organizations as some of the most powerful organizations in Boston, represent[ing] some of the most influential sections of the ruling class in this country.

This was antisemitism on full display. Chance might as well have been reading from The Protocols of the Elders of Zion, a 1903 fabricated anti-Semitic text from Russia that speaks of a secretive worldwide Jewish conspiracy for control and power.

Chance then called law-enforcement agencies the scum of the earth, before labeling the ADL a terrorist organization.

A short time after the last speech, delivered by local educator Nino Brown, who called Israel a cancer to the Middle East, the group headed for the offices of the ADL and JCRC. Along the way, participants chanted Long live the intifada! and There is only one solution, intifada revolution!

These chants presumably reference the first and second intifadas, the latter an especially deadly period in Israel (2000-05) when Palestinian terrorists perpetrated suicide bombings, stabbings shootings and car-rammings against innocent Israeli civilians on an almost daily basis. In other words, young people on the streets of Boston were and still are advocating for terrorism with no pushback.

At the ADL, the first speaker from the State House was interrupted by another member of SJP, who whispered something in her ear. Immediately, she called out, Is Dexter Van Zile in the crowd? Suddenly recognizing him, she said, Its nice that youre joining us today  [Its an] open rally.

Van Zile, a researcher for the Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting and Analysis, attended the event to observe it. Quiet and cordial, he stood scribbling notes, when Nino Brown again took the microphone.

Dexter Van Zile over here is in the crowd, shouted Brown. Hes a rabid Zionist with this group called CAMERA.

Fervent booing ensued. If you are a Zionist here in the crowd, go home, Brown continued, leading a chant of Zionists go home. So much for the open rally.

The mob of enraged zealots proceeded to swarm around Van Zile, yelling obscenities and slurring him as a Nazi. They inched closer and closer, completely surrounding him, leaving him no option for escape.

As the crowd grew even more agitated, a fellow protesterwearing a kipahurged, Dont give them the ammunition. He was clearly concerned that such violent behavior would damage their cause.

Van Zile was shoved by one member of the crowd while another doused him with water.

As the kipah-wearing participant continued to admonish, They will use this against us, more people crowded around Van Zile, who responded with Am Yisrael Chai [The people of Israel live on.] Again he was called a Nazi. A young woman in a keffiyeh called him a f**king pig and spat at him. Before long, the mob thankfully dispersed.

Let me be clear: This violent, xenophobic and anti-Semitic mob seeks the destruction of an entire country. Their incitement to violence and terror against Israelis should not be tolerated on the streets of Boston or anywhere else. That this group became so agitated by the mere presence of a Zionist at an open rally as to jeopardize his personal safety is deplorable.

As a registered student organization at UMass Boston, SJP receives funding from the school to carry out its activities, such as those that led to the verbal and physical harassment of Van Zile and similar assaults.

The UMass Boston chapter of SJP describes itself as a group of students and faculty. The administration of UMass Boston, a school funded by tax dollars, shouldnt tolerate any kind of violence on the part of its students or faculty.

While peaceful discussions of opposing viewpoints should be encouraged, the rally in question was anything but that, and UMass Boston must act accordingly.

Adam Gordon is a campus adviser for the Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting and Analysis. He is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst with a B.A. in political science.
(JNS)  Over the last couple of months, everyone once again attempted to take sides in the Arab-Israeli conflict. Hamas, acting under insidious and aggressive tactics, used an emotionally charged court case as a reason to wage a large assault on Israel from the Gaza Strip. More than 4,000 rockets later, of which many misfired and ended up hurting Palestinians, we are seeing a lull in hostility. However, as Israelis and Palestinians are clearing the rubble from this horrifying violence, there is an age-old conflict arising in the United States and around the world.

As the rockets were still flying, I was disturbed at how freely some advocated for more violence. It should come as no surprise, then, that the Anti-Defamation League recently came out with a preliminary report that shows a massive uptick in reported possible anti-Semitic incidents.

As Christians, our commitment to a gospel-centered life often translates to keeping the Bible in one hand and the newspaper in the other, to cite the late Karl Barth. While some believers have responded to rising tensions by exercising the biblical mandate to pray for Israel, some Christians have taken up the banner of anti-Zionism. In place of prayers for the protection of Israeli citizens from rockets and the liberation of Palestinians in Gaza from Hamas, anti-Zionist Christians respond by condemning Israels right to defend itself. They spread conspiracy theories and condemn other Christians for standing with Israel.

Determined to promote false and outlandish claims, the greatest stretch of logic in these arguments is the idea that Christian Zionists are anti-Semitic. Though not new, this conspiracy theory makes the notion that Elvis faked his death seem tame. Anti-Zionists purport that Christian Zionists, and groups like Christians United for Israel consider Jews useful only insofar as they trigger the end of days. A gross mischaracterization of Christian Zionism predicated on fabricated quotes and misinformation.

As John Hagee, the founder of CUFI had stated time and again, The vast majority of Christian Zionists and evangelicals do not believe there is anything we can do to hasten the second coming of Jesus. Our theology is clear that we humans are utterly powerless to change Gods timetable. The notion that eschatology is a major driving force in Christian Zionism is ludicrous, and it shows that proponents of this theory know little to nothing of Christian Zionists. Christian Zionism is a movement based on the principles of Christianity, which instructs believers to love their fellow man and be peacemakers. Christian Zionism, at its root, revolves around those tenets of peace, agape love and hope. It is why I support the Jewish right to self-determination in their indigenous homeland, a right that I believe all people deserve.

Among the litany of conspiracy theories, an accusation that anti-Zionists love to hurl at Christian Zionists is that we care little for our Christian brothers in Palestine because we support Israel. This is far from true. The fact is that Christians  and Christian Zionists, in particular  are persecuted by the terrorist groups and radical individuals in Palestinian-controlled areas. Christians pray for their brethren, do humanitarian work for Palestinians and hold great compassion for the Palestinian people. The idea that Christians are ignoring what their brethren go through is just as outlandish as the conspiracy theories that opponents of Christian Zionism promote.

This then begs the question: If Christians do care deeply about Palestinians, then why do they support Israel? The answer is that Christian Zionists recognize that Hamas and the Palestinian Authority have proven unwilling to stop terrorism against Israelis; are incapable of being tolerant toward the Jews and many Christians in the region; and refuse to accept any solution offered. With this in mind, Christian Zionists see Israel as the greatest chance for peace in the region. After all, thats the goal of Christians. Peace, rather than war, is a great ally when spreading the gospel.

Christians unfamiliar with the situation in the Middle East are fed lies about what it means to be a Zionist. Beyond the conspiracy theories, Christians are told that it implies that they overlook all of Israels transgressions. However, any country made up of people is imperfect, and it would be folly to overlook imperfections. Christians are told that being a Zionist means that they only care about the Jews and that its wrong to ignore the Palestinian plight. This is foolishness, and not at all a thought lurking in the minds of Christians. The Holy Scriptures instruct Christ-followers to love their fellow man. Christians want peace for Israel and the Palestinians, as well as a stable region so that everyone can achieve a better way of life.

The arguments against Christian Zionism have little substance and revolve around conspiracy and accusation. The objective of anti-Zionist, anti-Semitic groups is the destruction of Israel. This antithesis to what it means to be a Christian has no place in the church, and that is why the Christian Zionist movement will continue to fight against it.

Nathanael Harris is a 2020-21 fellow for the Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting and Analysis.
(FLAME via JNS)  As the Palestinian Authority tightens its iron grip on dissent in the West Bankand a dissident is brutally murdered while in P.A. custodyWestern media virtually ignore the story. One Palestinian activist accuses the United States government itself of supporting the increased repression.

Ironically, just last February, P.A. leader Mahmoud Abbas seemed to have found a new love for the freedom of speech. Reversing more than a decade of strangling speech critical of his regime, he decreed a ban on the detention, arrest, prosecution of, or holding to account, individuals for reasons relating to the freedom of opinion and political affiliation.

The decree was interpreted as a gesture by Abbas toward democracy as West Bank Palestinians were heading into elections. However, Abbas abruptly canceled the elections indefinitely last month. He also appears to have canceled his tolerance of free speech.

In recent weeks, P.A. security forces have rounded up more than 20 dissenters for their statements on social media or for taking part in demonstrations relating to conflicts in Jerusalem and the Hamas-Israel war, according to The Jerusalem Post.

A Palestinian watchdog group, Lawyers for Justice, reported that the detainees were arrested arbitrarily, many were beaten by Palestinian investigators and some were warned not to hire attorneys from the lawyers group.

Even more outrageous is the murder of Palestinian activist Nizar Banat, 42, just a few days ago. Banat, a Palestinian activist and well-known critic of the P.A. leadership, died after being arrested by the governments notorious security forces.

Banats family members claim he was badly beaten during the raid and arrest. Many human rights groups, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, have accused the Palestinian security forces of routinely arresting and torturing peaceful critics and opponents to crush dissent.

Indeed, the P.A. justice minister and head of the investigation committee into Banats death admitted that the dissident was subjected to physical violence and that his death was unnatural. In other words, he was beaten to death.

Another prominent critic of the P.A., Issa Amro, told CNN that he and other dissidents are afraid of being killed by the lawless Palestinian security forces. It is clear there is a decision to get rid of the opposition and activists at any price.

Outspoken Palestinian writer Nadia Harhash noted, Its interesting and disturbing that the Palestinian Authoritys unprecedented crackdown began immediately after U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinkens visit to Ramallah last month. If this is what Blinken means by empowering the P.A., she continued, then the U.S. is definitely complicit in the crimes of the Palestinian security forces.

Banats death set off protests by Palestinians across P.A.-controlled areas. In Ramallah, protesters shouted slogans calling for the removal of Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas from office. P.A. policemen used high levels of violence to disperse the protesters. Clubs, metal rods, tear gas and the sexual assault of female protesters have been used to break up the demonstrations and stop reporters from documenting the events, according to the Palestinian journalists union.

In response to violations of journalists freedom to cover the rallies, the Palestinian journalists union submitted a letter of protest to the United Nations, which called on the U.N. to take necessary and immediate measures to protect local journalists.

The violent response is a clear message that anyone that dares to defy the injustices of the P.A., or exercises their right for demanding more just policies, representatives, and practices will be attacked, even killed, with impunity, said Mariam Barghouti, a writer and researcher from Ramallah.

Very little of this made the front pages of international news publications. No urgent meetings were held at the United Nations, no demonstrations in Western cities expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people were held, and no calls to boycott or sanction the P.A. were made on university campuses or in trade unions.

The P.A. has received billions of dollars in welfare from the United States, as well as from Western European and Arab nations. While the Trump administration cut off most U.S. funding to the P.A.protesting corruption and anti-American actionsthe Biden administration has begun to restore such payments.

The question is why people who claim that Palestinian lives matter are not screaming from the rooftops about these outrages. Prominent Middle East commentator Melanie Phillips wrote that Palestinian Authority repression doesnt fit the Western liberal narrative.

Veteran Israeli journalist Khaled Abu Toameh explains that the crackdown was almost entirely ignored by the mainstream media in the Westuntil the death of Banat. He writes, It was ignored because the perpetrators were not Israeli policemen or soldiers. It was ignored because the media could not find a way to blame Israel for the fact that the Palestinian government was harassing, intimidating and torturing Palestinians.

This is largely a result of Western leaders and media ignoring a lack of democracy and illiberal behavior by Palestinians while focusing instead on events in Israel that can be used to discredit the Jewish state. Likewise, there were no cries of outrage when Abbasnow in the 16th year of his four-year term in officeonce again canceled elections.

Similarly, we read little to no coverage of incitement and anti-Semitism in the Palestinian educational, religious and media systems. European and American politicians cast a blind eye on the fact that taxpayer dollars fund the Palestinians Pay For Slay program, which rewards terrorists and murderers of Israelis and Americans.

These, too, do not fit the Western narrative of Palestinians as victims of Israeli power and aggression. This narrative infantilizes them, characterizing Palestinians as being unable to make moral choices or act in their own self-interest. As such, they are accorded no agencyan insulting example of the soft bigotry of low expectations.

This lack of concern on the part of those who claim to be pro-Palestinian is evident when no protests arise for these same victims when they are killed and oppressed in Lebanon, Syria and in the P.A.

Rather, this disregard for genuine repression betrays the fact that to these activists, Palestinians are mere props for critics anti-Israel and anti-Semitic obsessions. If the events cant be blamed on Israel, they are of no interest. Indeed, seemingly for many, Palestinian lives do not in fact matter.

James Sinkinson is president of Facts and Logic About the Middle East which publishes educational messages to correct lies and misperceptions about Israel and its relationship to the United States.
(JNS)  The Biden administration is determined to provide aid to the Palestinians in violation of the spirit, if not the letter of the Taylor Force Act, which bars U.S. aid from going to the Palestinian Authority (PA) so long as it continues its pay-to-slay policy. PA President Mahmoud Abbas has repeatedly said he will not end the payments to terrorists and, in recent months, has tried to restructure the means of payments in hopes President Joe Biden will ignore the deception.

Regardless, the Palestinians dont need the money and should not be given any U.S. taxpayer dollars. Then why should the U.S. even contemplate aid to the Palestinians? One reason is economic and humanitarian, and the other is political. The former has some justification, but the latter does not.

Consider that the Biden administration has now promised the Palestinians $140 million in U.S. taxpayer money. In 2020, the PA spent nearly $181 million on pay-to-slay, which could instead replace the $15 million in coronavirus assistance, $75 million in assistance for infrastructure, health and civil society groups, $40 million for law enforcement and security and $10 million for peacebuilding programs the administration intends to dole out.

If the PA simply stopped subsidizing terror, it would have more than enough money to pay for the programs President Biden has decided the American people should underwrite. Furthermore, money is fungible, so every U.S. dollar frees up Palestinian funds to prop up the corrupt Abbas regime, to incite terror and to produce propaganda in their media and schools that undermines peace. Worse, the PA still has all that cash to pay terrorists in jail and the families of martyrs.

Supporting an enduring solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a core U.S. national security objective, the State Department said in the notification of its aid plan. As an essential part of this effort, U.S. government assistance seeks to build professional and accountable security and criminal justice institutions that maintain security and stability in the West Bank, uphold the rule of law, contribute directly to regional security, and protect the population.

Secretary of State Tony Blinken could be as effective in promoting a solution to the conflict if he threw the money on a bonfire.

The Palestinians have never shown any gratitude for U.S. assistance and have never responded to American largesse by cooperating with peace initiatives. They dont hide their contempt at the idea their support can be bought and have for decades undermined U.S. interests in the region.

Moreover, we dont need Palestinians love; they need our support if they want to have any hope of achieving independence. Their antics at the United Nations and International Criminal Court (ICC), and their courting of the Europeans, has gotten them nowhere. The road to freedom goes through Jerusalem and only Washington has any influence with the Israeli government.

Incidentally, Biden may also be violating another law. The Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 (pp. 1256-57), passed under the Obama administration, prohibits U.S. aid if the PA goes to the ICC, as it has, to ask for an investigation of Israelis.

The State Department also announced resumption of support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East. The department said the contribution of $150 million to the agency was needed for UNRWA services. It also justified the reversal of President Donald Trumps policy by stating that the United States needs to be at the table to ensure that the reforms advance efficiencies and are in accord with our interests and values.

This is the same misguided justification for the U.S. rejoining the U.N. Human Rights Council.

Also, contradicting the Biden administrations claim that funding UNRWA aligns with the interests of our allies, Israels Foreign Ministry said, Israels position is that the organization in its current form perpetuates the conflict and does not contribute to its resolution.

Blinken said U.S. aid is conditional on anti-Israel and anti-Jewish education reform, referencing educational materials that erase Israel from maps and praise terrorism and martyrdom. If true, then its not likely UNRWA will see a dollar in the foreseeable future.

UNRWA has failed to deliver on similar promises in the past. In fact, UNRWA admitted in January that educational material distributed to schools in the West Bank and Gaza contain inappropriate content glorifying Palestinian terrorists and encouraging violence.

Ironically, shortly after the U.S. announcement, the European Parliament condemned the organization for teaching hate and violence in PA schools. A few months earlier, Norway went further and voted to cut financial assistance to UNRWA because of the anti-Semitic and violent content of its educational materials.

Apparently, the Arabists are once again running amok in Foggy Bottom; otherwise, its difficult to understand their logic given that the U.S. has historically been the largest donor to UNRWA and had little, if any, influence. The organization, perhaps more than any other, has impeded peace by turning what should be a small problem of dealing with some 30,000 true refugees from 1948 into an impossible one whereby Israel is expected to repatriate more than 5 million Palestinians who never lived in the area of Palestine that is now Israel.

Why, also, should the U.S. provide more aid than other countries that court the Palestinians? The $150 million Blinken pledged is more than any country gave in 2019. The UAE and Saudi Arabia, for example, gave about $50 million each, and Qatar contributed $41 million.

The Arab states have reduced aid to the Palestinians because they are tired of their ingratitude, criticism of normalization with Israel and unwillingness to reach a peace agreement with Israel. The fact there was no uproar in the Arab world or cancellation of the Abraham Accords during Operation Guardian of the Walls was a further indication that Arab countries are focused on their own interests, no longer fear the mythical Arab street and believe the Palestinians should live with the consequences of their epically bad decisions.

If the Arabs can see this reality, why cant the Biden administration?

From a humanitarian point of view, it is meritorious for President Biden to provide aid to rebuild Gaza; however, it makes no sense to channel money through the PA kleptocracy given that it has no influence in Gaza  and was cheering for the rocket attacks on Israel. A State Department official admitted there is no guarantee aid wont end up in the hands of Hamas.

More likely, any money that does reach Gaza will be diverted by Hamas, as in the past, to take care of its members, repair its infrastructure, construct new tunnels and acquire and build new rockets. In addition, Israeli journalist Amos Harel noted that many of the materials used in Gazas weapons production were originally intended for civilian purposes. For example, salt can be used to produce explosives.

Biden is providing a stimulus check for the next round of rocket fire. Let Qatar and the EU finance reconstruction. The outcome will be the same but at least it will not involve American taxpayer money.

The real question is: How does a president supposedly interested in democracy and human rights justify violating U.S. law, strengthening an autocracy, subsidizing terrorism and anti-Semitism and undermining his own goal of a two-state solution?

Mitchell Bard is an American foreign policy analyst, editor and author who specializes in U.S.-Middle East policy. He is the executive director of the nonprofit American-Israeli Cooperative Enterprise, and the director of the Jewish Virtual Library.
Nashua - Linda Susan Mason, with her husband of 21 years at her side, passed on June 15, 2021 at the Hillsborough County Nursing Home in Goffstown, N.H. Linda was born on June 26, 1947, in Lawrence, Mass. to William and Elizabeth (Tuttle) Case. She warmly remembered her childhood, spent in N
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On Wednesday, President Joe Biden visited Capitol Hill to urge Senate Democrats to support a $3.5 trillion "human infrastructure" package. Biden encouraged legislators to rally behind the plan and "get this done" for the American people during a lunch gathering of the entire Senate Democratic Conference.

The visit comes only one day after Democrats on the Senate Budget Committee agreed to a rough framework for an agreement. The group will be in charge of guiding the measure through the budget reconciliation process.

Joe Biden remains optimistic about the infrastructure package

Because the GOP's support for the specifics seems doubtful given the subject matter, reconciliation, which permits spending bills to avoid the Senate's 60-vote barrier that most legislation must clear and instead pass with a simple majority of 51 votes, is the only alternative. Democrats claimed the $3.5 trillion budget agreement will be added to the roughly $600 billion in additional infrastructure projects included in a bipartisan infrastructure package, CNBC reported.

Senate leaders claim that the budget proposal is completely paid for, a characteristic that might convince moderate Democrats concerned about government spending and growing debt levels, particularly in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic's trillions spent. The budget would also extend Medicare coverage for dental, vision, and hearing treatments, which progressives like Sen. Bernie Sanders have advocated for.

Three key areas will provide offsets to the huge topline price tag: health savings, tax reform, and long-term economic development. According to the aid, the budget will prevent tax hikes for family farms, small companies, and families earning less than $400,000 per year.

Read Also: What Drunk Rudy Guiliani Reportedly Told Donald Trump on Election Night

Joe Manchin remained uncommitted

Despite the difficult struggle ahead, Biden maintained a positive outlook. He has to keep all of his Democratic senators on board, including moderate Senator Joe Manchin, who has expressed reservations about the $3.5 trillion plan's cost, and progressives, who want to see even more spending added. Given the overwhelming Republican opposition, the president requires the support of all 50 Democratic senators in the evenly divided Senate.

However, not all Democratic senators were convinced after the conference. Many others stated they needed more time to examine the proposal's details and figure out how it would be paid for. Even after a nearly hour-long luncheon when Democratic Senators Mark Warner and Bernie Sanders explained the idea and Biden made his sales pitch, Manchin remained uncommitted on the spending package, as per Daily Mail.

Biden was greeted warmly by Democratic senators, many of whom have previously served with him in the Senate. Several times, applause could be heard behind closed doors, where the Democrats were starting their campaign. Senators felt Biden made a compelling argument for why his approach would benefit American families.

Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York announced the agreement for a budget reconciliation plan that would support what Biden has referred to as "human infrastructure" after a lengthy discussion among Democrats on the Senate Budget Committee. When you add in the $600 billion in additional spending proposed by Biden in a separate bipartisan infrastructure package, the total new expenditure amounts to about $4.1 trillion, according to Schumer, which is close to Biden's complete infrastructure and family objectives.

Per USA Today, expanded caring for the handicapped and elderly, free community college, universal prekindergarten, subsidized child care, national paid family leave, and child tax credits are among the proposals. There are also several environmental measures, including a new clean energy standard that requires power firms to progressively reduce carbon monoxide emissions and subsidies for sustainable energy sources like wind and solar.

Democrats also included a plan to extend Medicare, including dental, vision, and hearing coverage, according to Schumer, which has long been a war cry for progressives. Biden will meet with Senate Democrats on Wednesday at the Capitol to discuss the deal.

Related Article: Fourth Stimulus Check Direct Payments Until 2025 Proposed: Joe Biden Pushes For Cash Assistance Instead of Tax Credit



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United States Vice President Kamala Harris is once again the center of controversy as several former staffers from the official's office are claiming that the working environment they worked in was unhealthy and dysfunctional.

Last month, reports of Harris' apparent tense workplace quickly spread on social media platforms and became widespread among the official's former aides. They noted that they recognized themselves in the story and remembered the struggles they faced.

Toxic Work Environment

In one statement, one former Harris staffer was just amazed at the text regarding the article, saying they were glad it was flagged. Another former staffer told their therapist about the news, saying that it was a rare occurrence for them to be vindicated in public.

The former staffer who showed their therapist the news about the apparent toxic working environment in Harris' office said they sought professional help for the trauma they got from "on-the-job abuse."

The office culture at the time that Harris was San Francisco's district attorney was discussed with 12 former staffers who worked under the now-vice president of the United States. Several of the people involved said the lawmaker was unpredictable and would frequently hang up the phone on her staff. One said that the workplace environment was "toxic" and "reactionary," Business Insider reported.

Read Also: US Implies Sanctions on 34 Companies Linked to Uyghur Policy; China Vows Retaliation Over Blacklisting

However, there were some that contradicted the statements, arguing that working under the then-district attorney was an enjoyable experience. One individual said his employment for Harris was one of the best experiences in his life. Several senior advisors have also countered against the controversial claims of a toxic workplace environment.

Symone Sanders, Harris' chief spokesperson, said there was no consternation among the vice president's aides. She said last month that the allegations against the official were biased and not founded on actual evidence.

On July 2, White House press secretary Jen Psaki also addressed the accusations, dismissing the reports during a press briefing. She said that she would not comment regarding the core issue but noted that Harris was a hard-working lawmaker who had an amazing, supportive team of people working with her.

Multiple Controversies

The issue comes as Harris is under fire for comparing Democratic lawmakers who fled Texas with the legacy of civil rights and voting rights leaders and activists. The vice president made her statements on the Texas House Democratic Caucus that left the state on Monday to block the state's new election legislation from passing, Fox News reported.

Her recent controversies have made Harris a prime target for Republicans looking to embellish the Democrat image. Senate hopeful Pat McCrory from North Carolina promised to fight against the Harris-Biden administration and their radical views to change the United States in the years to come.

Jessica Taylor from Alabama painted a portrait of "Kamala's America" depicting a dystopian world where she conspicuously mispronounced the vice president's first name. And in the chance that Harris joins the senate, Taylor promised it would be the lawmaker's worst nightmare, Yahoo News reported.



Related Article: Trump Org CFO Allen Weisselberg Dismissed From Senior Positions But Will Remain in the Company

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German authorities reported that a fireman drowned, and the deployment of the army was warranted to assist residents who were left stranded on Wednesday after the occurence of massive floods which resulted from heavy rain in the western parts of the country.

An extreme weather warning was issued by the German Weather Service for parts of three states in the western region. Hagen, a city with a population of 180,000, declared a state of emergency after authorities noted the bursting of the Volme river's banks.

Massive Flooding

The weather phenomenon comes shortly before September's scheduled voting of a successor to Chancellor Angela Merkel. The situation could heighten awareness of global issues such as climate change and global warming. The topic is one that the Greens, who run second to Merkel's conservatives, have failed to dominate.

The Hagen crisis team warned residents about the rising water that could reach historic levels that have only been observed at most four times in the last century. The water could rise to such levels in hours after the announcement and authorities urged anyone who lived near the rivers to vacate their homes and move to a higher ground, Reuters reported.

Bernd Mehlig, an environment official from North Rhine-Westphalia, the most affected region of the flood, said the phenomena was previously observed only during the winter season. He noted that the massive flood's intensity was completely unusual for the summer season.

Read Also: Joe Biden Urges Senate Democrats to Stay United To Reach $3.5 Trillion Deal in Human Infrastructure Package

Several drivers were rescued after their cars got stuck in a flooded underpass in Hagen near Altena. Various videos regarding the incident have gone viral on social media platforms showing streets within the city completely filled with water that reaches up to a person's knees and areas that are buried under landslides.

Authorities also reported that a woman was trapped by a fallen tree in the German town of Mettmann. A responder had to keep the victim's head up to keep the water from drowning her as the floodwaters rose. They waited until firefighters could arrive and free her from the downed tree.

Injuries and Casualties

Erkrath residents were also warned against showering or using their washers due to the heavy rain overloading the local sewage system. Authorities from Duesseldorf called on Grafenberg district residents to evacuate their apartments on Wednesday because of the risk of flooding, the Washington Post reported.

Bavaria's Hof county authorities issued a disaster alert on Tuesday after basements in the region were filled with water, trees were downed, and power in some areas were shut down. The country's DWD weather service said about 80 liters of rain per square meter gathered in the span of 12 hours.

Authorities had to evacuate one Hagen care home as firefighters in the region continued to pump water out of hundreds of cellars. One hospital was also filled with floodwater, causing the building's lifts to cease functioning.

Officials reported that one firefighter died after losing his footing in floodwaters and being swept away. They also noted that two men, aged 53 and 81, were missing somewhere else in the region, The Guardian reported.



Related Article: Trump Org CFO Allen Weisselberg Dismissed From Senior Positions But Will Remain in the Company

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Former President George W. Bush denounced the withdrawal from Afghanistan of the United States and NATO troops. He touted the decision as a wrong move and cautioned that the repercussions will be devastating. Bush cautioned that Afghan women and girls would experience inexpressible harm.

The 43rd President initiated the longest war of the United States, the Afghan war, when he sent US troops to Afghanistan after the terrorist attacks in September 11. The comments of Bush are particularly notable as he has regularly been dubious to condemn the decision making of his successors: Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden. His comments come at a time of Taliban advancements in the US. He fears of a broader security breakdown.

Bush's Invasion Order

Bush ordered the sending of the troops to topple the Taliban. To initiate terrorist attacks against the US, he also did such to deny al-Qaeda of a safe haven. Twenty years later, President Joe Biden is ending the war.

Back in 2001, Washington gave Taliban Afghan mujahideen Mullah Omar a final demand of statement of terms: Give al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden and disassemble militant training camps or we will retaliate. Omar denied and therefore, the United States alliance initiated an invasion.

In Bush's own words, he stated, "They're just going to be left behind to be slaughtered by these very brutal people, and it breaks my heart," reported DW.

The remarks of the former president allude to the uncompromising Islamic Taliban that, amid the withdrawan of US and NATO forces, are implementing massive gains throughout the nation. They are slated to conclude by September.

Read Also: US Troops Near Formal Afghanistan Withdrawal, General Miller: Possibility of Civil War Looms

According to the Taliban, it already manages 85% of the nation. This is a figure which the United States contends despite Pentagon officials explicitly indicating concern regarding militant group's swift takeover of territory and its advance toward Kabul. More than what are managed by the Afghan government, more Afghanistan citizens reportedly live in territory controlled by the Taliban, reported VOA.

According to Bush, he thought German Chancellor Angela Merkel thinks in a similar way. He remarked Merkel, who is slated to retire from politics later this 2021 following a decade and six years in power, brought nobility and class to a significant position and made difficult decisions.

Biden's Date of Withdrawal of Afganistan Troops

President Joe Biden made a declaration in April that he would withdraw United States troops from Afghanistan. In the previous week, he remarked that the US military mission would conclude on August 31.

Biden said that speed is safety. He added, amid the withdrawal process, not one US military member has been lost.

He stated, "The United States did what we went to do in Afghanistan -- to get the terrorists who attacked us on 9/11 and to deliver justice to Usama bin Laden. We did not go to Afghanistan to nation-build," reported Fox News.

Related Article: Joe Biden Wants to End War in Afghanistan, Says Making Troops Stay Not Worth It Anymore

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The bipartisan bill, which was passed by unanimous agreement, would shift the burden of evidence on importers. The present law prohibits products from entering the country if there is credible proof of forced labor.

U.S. Senate Passed the 'Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act'

In a recently published article in MSN News, on Wednesday, the United States Senate passed legislation prohibiting the purchase of goods from China's Xinjiang province, the latest attempt in Washington to penalize Beijing for what US authorities believe is an ongoing genocide against Uyghurs and other Muslim communities.

Unless otherwise verified by US authorities, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act would establish a "rebuttable presumption" that products produced in Xinjiang are created using forced labor and therefore prohibited under the 1930 Tariff Act.

Before being submitted to the White House for President Joe Biden's signature, the measure must also pass the House of Representatives, according to a published article in NDTV. It was not immediately apparent when this would happen.

Read Also: US Sanctions China for Allegedly Abusing Muslim Uighurs, Placing Them in Detention Camps

Lawmakers Call on the House to Act Quickly

Republican Senator Marco Rubio and Democratic Senator Jeff Merkley who presented the bill and urged the House to move swiftly. The present law prohibits products from entering the country if there is credible proof of forced labor.

Sen. Rubio said they will neither turn a blind eye to the CCP's continuing crimes against humanity, nor will they let businesses benefit from those atrocities, according to a recently published article in SCMP.

Meanwhile, Democratic Senator Merkley also released a statement and said there should be no benefit for any American company as a result of the wrongdoings of Communist country and no American consumer should accidentally buy goods made by slaves.

Bill Expected to Get Strong Support in the House

Aides of the Democratic and Republican lawmakers predicted significant support for the bill in the House, noting that a similar bill passed almost unanimously last year, according to a published article in Reuters.

The bill would go above and beyond current measures to protect U.S. supply chains in the face of accusations of human rights violations in China, such as restrictions on Xinjiang tomatoes, cotton, and certain solar goods.

The Biden administration has tightened sanctions and released an advice on Tuesday warning companies that if their activities are even remotely connected to monitoring networks in Xinjiang, they may be breaking the U.S. law.

China Prepared for More Sanctions

China is bracing for further penalties after the US added 23 Chinese companies to its export blacklist last week, but analysts and government advisors believe Beijing would be careful in its response given its unwillingness to promote full-scale technological decoupling.

Furthermore, Beijing vehemently rejects human rights violations in the far west, and sees Washington's penalties as part of an attempt to rein in China's technical advancement and rising strength.

Last Friday, 22 businesses and one individual were sanctioned for their roles in artificial intelligence and security technologies. Fourteen were sanctioned for alleged human rights violations in Xinjiang, five for connections to the Chinese military, and four more for conducting business with U.S.-sanctioned companies.

Related Article: US Implies Sanctions on 34 Companies Linked to Uyghur Policy; China Vows Retaliation Over Blacklisting



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Democrats have concurred to impose a carbon tax on imports from countries with high pollution to their $3.5 trillion budget plan. According to Democratic Senator Ed Markey, such legislation will assert US leadership on the climate crisis. He added that, however, we could not be "Uncle Sucker" where other nations, spearheaded by China, take advantage of what they are going to ask their country to tackle. He continued that there is much backing to the idea.

Border carbon taxes are also designated to shield domestic manufacturing. For example, if a nation commits to diminishing its emissions domestically, it runs the susceptibility that its cement plants and steel face. They may also be at a disadvantage in contrast to foreign competitors whose guidelines have environmental factors that are more adaptable.

Budget Plan to Support Other Fundings

The democratic lawmakers are drawing up such plans for a bundle in new government funding from expansion of public health benefits and universal child care. While there are a few details of the tariffs, reports of the proposals of the Democrats arrived the same day the European Union published its plans to implement a tax on carbon footprint imports.

The major Biden administration policy goals also include addressing expanding medicare, climate change, and ameliorate immigration. The plan also involves expanding tax credits for electric vehicles and renewable energy. It also includes a clean energy standard development that could designate utilities to generate carbon-free power, reported Bloomberg.

According to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, the carbon tariff will be effectual because it prevents other nations from polluting. The entire scope and size of the "polluter import fee" was not immediately made precise. However, the proposal comes around the same time that the EU floated a similar idea to diminish carbon emissions from some of the more horrific polluter countries, reported Fox News.

Read Also: Senate Democrats Agree on $3.5T for Major Reconciliation Bill; Major Programs Would Be Funded

China is the globe's biggest emitter of greenhouse gases resulting in global warming. According to scientists, the world needs to immediately reduce its emissions if it has any chance of alleviating average world temperatures from going beyond 1.5 degrees Celsius from pre-industrial levels, reported The US Express News.

European diplomats had looked for Washington to coordinate with Brussels to address climate change through trade mechanisms including a border carbon tax. However, efforts by the US to implement tariffs on carbon entering the nation would mark a change in administration policy by the president. Biden's climate envoy, John Kerry, cautioned this 2021 that a tax tariff on the carbon frontier should be a final fallback and that he was concerned regarding the plans of Brussels for such a mechanism.

According to Senator Jeff Merkley of Oregon on Wednesday, there is much backing for the concept of a border adjustment tariff on high-carbon products. The plan interlocks with efforts by other nations to use trade policy as a tool to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.

Related Article: Fourth Stimulus Check Update: $11,400 for a Family of Four

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Top U.S. generals reportedly discussed ways to stop Former President Donald Trump from staging a coup following his loss in the 2020 election, excerpts from a forthcoming book revealed.

Gen. Mark Milley, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, reportedly spoke with other Joint Chiefs about a plan to resign following the election. The move was part of an attempt to avoid carrying out orders from Trump to stage a coup that they believe to be illegal and dangerous.

Fear of Trump Coup

"It was a kind of Saturday Night Massacre in reverse," Washington Post reporters Carol Leonnig and Philip Rucker wrote in the forthcoming book "I Alone Can Fix It," a copy of which was obtained by CNN.

The book, which is scheduled to release next Tuesday, also revealed that Milley told colleagues and lawmakers that he felt he had to be "on guard" for any unforeseen events.

"They may try, but they're not going to f**king succeed," Milley told his deputies, according to the authors, as reported by The Hill. "You can't do this without the military. You can't do this without the CIA and the FBI. We're the guys with the guns."

Leonnig and Rucker's forthcoming book also revealed that Milley voiced concern over the former president's actions in the days leading up to the deadly riot at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6. The authors said the general described Trump as the "authoritarian leader" and compared him to Adolf Hitler.

Ahead of Trump's "Million MAGA March," Milley told aides that he feared the protest would resemble the pro-Nazi militia that fueled Hitler's rise to power.

Read Also: Joe Biden Urges Senate Democrats to Stay United To Reach $3.5 Trillion Deal in Human Infrastructure Package

The book revealed the Milley had been on the frontlines of trying to stop Trump from firing FBI Director Chris Wray and CIA Director Gina Haspel.

Milley has become the subject of controversy when, in June 2020, he joined then-president Trump in a photo-op at St. John's Church after federal officials violently cleared peaceful Black Lives Matter protesters from Lafayette Square near the church.

Trump Supporters

Several protesters said the federal officials had not given them instructions to move before they began to deploy tear gas and batons. The officers also began charging forward and knocking people to the ground. Some also rammed protesters with their riot shields, Amelia Brace, an Australian journalist who was at the scene, told NPR.

The book "I Alone Can Fix It" is also expected to give readers an inside look into Trump's plans to stage a "victory" party with nearly 400 attendees despite public health regulations for the COVID-19 pandemic.

Trump's campaign had initially planned to hold the celebration at the Trump International Hotel, but moved it to the White House to avoid being subjected to local ordinances that said no more than 50 people could gather at an indoor venue, according to The Washington Post.

Leonnig's and Rucker's forthcoming book is based on hours of interviews with over 140 people, which included senior Trump officials and advisors. The scenes were also corroborated by multiple sources and internal memos.

Related Article: Trump Org CFO Allen Weisselberg Dismissed From Senior Positions But Will Remain in the Company

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More than 2.6 million individuals have signed a Change.org petition requesting $2,000 in monthly stimulus payments from the federal government.

Ongoing Campaign for Fourth Stimulus Checks

In a recently published article in Forbes, several Change.org petitions have gathered almost three million signatures in support of $2,000 monthly stimulus payments. The petitions differ in breadth, but they all have one thing in common: they want the American people to receive a fourth stimulus check.

Stephanie Bonin, a Denver restaurant owner, is organizing one of the biggest petitions. Bonin demands immediate stimulus payments of $2,000 per month for adults and $1,000 per month for each kid.

Additionally, she wants these recurrent stimulus payments to be given out every month until the Covid-19 epidemic is over. At least five additional identical petitions have been filed in the United States, urging the Senate and House of Representatives to act on a fresh stimulus package.

Read Also: Fourth Stimulus Check 2021 Status Update: Lawmakers See Its Positive Impact to Economy, Wants $2,000 Checks Released Monthly

Present Status of Bonin's Petition

In a recently published article in NJ, Bonin's petition is addressed to Congress and is titled "$2000/month to every American #moneyforthepeople #covid19," According to the website, if the petition receives 3 million signatures, it would "become one of the most signed on Change.org."

Stephanie Bonin, one of the larger petitions' creators, told Newsweek."We need immediate checks and recurring payments so that we can keep our heads above water," Meanwhile, five smaller Change.org petitions seeking monthly checks have gained momentum on the internet.

Despite the petition's growth, the White House is unlikely to send a fourth stimulus check now that the economy is showing signs of improvement. There are many "what-if" possibilities about whether the Biden administration will offer further assistance.

Congress Urged Biden Administration To Pass Another Stimulus Checks

Congress has also pushed the Biden administration to approve more assistance, even though many members of Congress are opposed to the stimulus because of the money that has not been spent.

It can be remembered that three rounds of stimulus funds have been authorized by Congress. The first, which was approved in March 2020, contained $1,200 in direct payments. The second was for $600 and was paid in December 2020, while the third was for $1,400 and was granted in March 2021.

More than 75 members of Congress want to provide you $2,000 monthly stimulus payments until the Covid-19 epidemic is over. These members of Congress argue that the last stimulus check, as well as any fourth stimulus check, are insufficient to assist Americans who are experiencing financial hardship as a result of the Covid-19 epidemic.

According to studies, the first three stimulus cheques helped millions of Americans avoid difficulties such as food insecurity and financial instability. More specific measures, such as an extension of the child tax credit and programs to offer free or discounted healthcare to individuals who had received jobless benefits in 2021, were also mentioned by Congress.

Furthermore, President Joe Biden's main goal, according to White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki, is generating employment, but the president is "glad to hear" of alternative methods to boost the economy, implying that the president might be open to another round of stimulus checks.

Related Article: Fourth Stimulus Checks Could Start Hitting Your Bank Automatically Once Approved



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North Korea is currently facing the worst food shortage in more than a decade, the country's report to the United Nations said.

In a Voluntary National Review for a United Nations examination of its Sustainable Development Goals report, officials for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) blamed the drop in the country's food production to "natural disasters, insufficient farming materials and low level of mechanization."

North Korea Food Shortage

Pyongyang also blamed its low level of food production, which is at its lowest since 2018, on the sanctions imposed by the UN Security Council for testing nuclear weapons and missiles.

"[The] main obstacles to the government's efforts to achieve the sustainable development of the country [include the] continued sanctions and blockade on the DPRK," North Korea said in the report, according to Bloomberg.

The report is the first time North Korea has made its food crisis public. It also comes after North Korean Leader Kim Jong-Un in June issued a rare warning about the "tense" food situation in the country during an appearance in state media.

The DPRK's food shortage was made worse by the flooding, COVID-19 pandemic, and sanctions led by the United States. Experts say the current food situation in the country resembles that of the famine in the late 1990s, where millions of North Koreans died.

"In the 1990s, when North Korea was undergoing a famine, there was an opportunity to provide humanitarian aid to North Koreans. And perhaps we're starting to see the groundwork for discussion around some sort of humanitarian aid," Jean Lee, a North Korea expert and senior fellow at the Wilson Center told Morning Edition early this month, as reported by NPR.

Read Also: Joe Biden Urges Senate Democrats to Stay United To Reach $3.5 Trillion Deal in Human Infrastructure Package

The food shortage has also led to an undernourished population. According to a UN report published Tuesday, at least 42% of North Koreans are facing food insecurity and are suffering from malnutrition amid the COVID-19 pandemic and severe weather conditions.

Effect on North Korean Citizens

The report found that 10.9 million North Koreans or 42% were undernourished from 2018 to 2020. Around one in five North Korean children under the age of 5 have also suffered stunted growth as of last year.

North Korea now has the sixth highest percentage of undernourishment in the world, after Somalia, the Central African Republic, Haiti, Yemen, and Madagascar, according to The Korea Herald.

North Korea's economy is not expected to grow in 2021 as the country struggles with the effects of the novel coronavirus pandemic. The shortage has also been exacerbated by the U.S.-led sanctions and the country's lack of trade with China, a report by Fitch Solutions found in April.

The DPRK's report to the UN comes after NK News revealed that Kim was celebrating in his "floating amusement park" that features twin waterslides and an Olympic-size pool amid the country's worsening food crisis and COVID-19 situation.

The 260-foot-long was seen docked at what is believed to be his mansion in Wonsan. It was the first time the vessel was seen docked since 2019.



Related Article: Washington's Last Vaccine Lottery Drawing On Tuesday; One Lucky Winner Awarded $1 Million

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According to reports, the Taliban have hoisted their flag over a major border crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan, an act which was seen as Taliban's way to claim authority.

Taliban Advances Across Afghanistan

In a recently published article in BBC News, Taliban fighters have advanced quickly throughout the nation, capturing a number of border crossings from Afghan troops, including those with Iran, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan.

The Taliban, a fundamentalist Islamist group that was ousted from power almost two decades ago by the U.S. invasion, has taken control of a number of important highways as part of its effort to shut off supply lines to major cities.

Meanwhile, social media videos show a white flag flying over the Spin Boldak bridge near Kandahar. Afghan authorities, on the other hand, have disputed that the position has fallen, despite photos on social media showing insurgents talking with Pakistani border guards, according to a published article in Hindustan Times.

Read Also: Taliban Wins the War in Afghanistan as the UK, US Troops Pull Out, General Lord Dannatt Claims

Border Post Where Taliban Fighters Raised Their Flag

The border crossing is the second busiest between the two nations, separating the Afghan town of Spin Boldak in Kandahar province on one side and the Pakistani town of Chaman on the other. It connects Kandahar with Pakistan's ports, with 900 trucks passing through each day.

It would offer them substantial customs income from cross-border commerce, as well as direct access to regions in Pakistan where Taliban commanders and militants have been known to be stationed for many years.

Furthermore, Journalists and the general public have been advised not to approach the border from Pakistan's side, and an urgent security meeting is now underway, according to a published article in The Sentinel.

Impact of Controlling the Border

Control of the border crossing between the Pakistani town of Chaman and the Afghan town of Wesh may be the most important goal Taliban fighters have achieved so far, as they were able to establish fast advances throughout the nation since the U.S. troops withdrew.

The Taliban fighters have pulled down the Afghan government flag from atop the 'Friendship Gate,' according to a Pakistani officer. The Afghan government claimed control of the Spin Boldak border district in Kandahar province, while Pakistani officials claimed Taliban's control of the Wesh border posts.

Foreign ministers from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) addressed the subject, which is believed to have significant consequences for regional security, amid the Afghan government's battle to maintain control of its territory.

Taliban Fighters Promised 'Security'

Locals also claim the Taliban are in the Afghan town, despite the Taliban promising residents and merchants "security is assured" in a statement earlier on Wednesday. In fact, one store owner informed a news organization that militants could be spotted in the "bazaar, police HQ, and custom areas," and that combat could be heard nearby.

On Tuesday, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani assured people that "the Taliban's backbone would be shattered" and that the country's lost land will be reclaimed. However, since a 2020 agreement with former U.S. President Donald Trump's administration, his troops have been trying to stop the Taliban's march across the nation, which has accelerated.

Many worry that Afghan security forces would totally collapse under the pressure, with former U.S. President George W. Bush, who was behind the decision to deploy US troops to Afghanistan in 2001, predicting that the repercussions of the U.S. departure would be "unbelievably terrible."

Related Article: Taliban Executes 22 Afghan Commandos; Group Denies the Execution

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Canadian officials on Tuesday revealed they found more unmarked graves on the grounds of an Indigenous residential school in the southern Gulf Islands, making it the latest in a series of devastating discoveries since May.

In a newly released statement, the Penalakut Tribe said they found more than 160 undocumented and unmarked graves off the British Columbia coast where the Kuper Island Indian Industrial School previously stood.

Mass Unmarked Graves

"We understand that many of our brothers and sisters from our neighboring communities attended the Kuper Island Industrial School. We also recognize with a tremendous amount of grief and loss, that too many did not return home," the tribe's statement read. "It is impossible to get over acts of genocide and human rights violations. Healing is an ongoing process, and sometimes it goes well, and sometimes we lose more people because the burden is too great."

The Kuper Island Indian Industrial School operated from 1890 until 1969. It was initially run by the Roman Catholic Church before the Canadian federal government took over. The school ceased operations in 1975 and was demolished five years later.

Tuesday's grim findings are the latest discovery in recent months. In June, a ground-penetrating radar found at least 182 human remains in several unmarked graves at the site of the former St. Eugene's Mission School. The radar found that some of the remains were buried in graves only four feet deep.

Read Also: Trump Org CFO Allen Weisselberg Dismissed From Senior Positions But Will Remain in the Company

According to a statement released by the Lower Kootenay Band, the remains found were believed to belong to members of the Bands of the Ktunaxa nation, First Nations communities and the community of aqam, as reported by CNN.

Hundreds of Indigenous People

An estimated 100 Lower Kootenay Band members attended St. Eugene's between 1912 and the early 1970s. At the time, the Roman Catholic Church operated the school where they housed indigenous children ages 7 to 15.

In late-June, Cowessess First Nation Chief Cadmus Delorme announced they discovered the unmarked graves of as many as 751 people at the site of the former Marieval Indian Residential School in Saskatchewan.

The Marieval Indian Residential School was founded in the 1890s and was run by Catholic missionaries until the federal government took over in 1969. It was later turned over to the Cowessess First Nation in 1987 until it closed in the 1990s, according to The Washington Post.

It is unclear how the indigenous children died at the school. Many suffered from disease outbreaks, while some faced sexual and physical abuse and violence. Former students recounted experiences wherein young girls were impregnated by priests, as reported by The New York Times.

The series of chilling discoveries began in May when the Tk'emlups te Secwepemc First Nation said they discovered the remains of 215 children on the grounds of the Kamloops Indian Residential School, which operated from 1890 until the late 1970s. The remains, which have been buried for decades, included children believed to be as young as 3.

From the 19th century until the 1970s, at least 150,000 indigenous children were forced to attend Christian schools where they suffered abuse for speaking their native languages.



Related Article: Joe Biden Urges Senate Democrats to Stay United To Reach $3.5 Trillion Deal in Human Infrastructure Package

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A Louisiana man is accused of stealing his girlfriend's ring, pawning it, and then using the proceeds to make a down payment on an engagement ring for her.

Man Stole a Ring

In a recently published article in MSN News, a Louisiana man was reported to steal his girlfriend's ring to be able to buy an engagement ring for her. Based on the reports, the man pawned the ring to generate funds.

The alleged incident occurred in 2019, and it's unclear why Pope was not arrested sooner. Pope returned two weeks later for the ring, which was worth almost $4,500, but it had already been melted down for scrap, according to police, as detailed in a published article in Newser,

As the Smoking Gun notes, separate addresses are listed for Pope and Futch; and she is referred to in an affidavit as Pope's "then-girlfriend," so they are presumably no longer together. Authorities are still verifying the status of their relationship.

Read Also: Local Rapper, KTS Dre, Dies After Being Shot 64 Times

FBI Says Jewelry Industry Loses $100 Million Every Year

According to the FBI, the jewelry sector loses over $100 million each year. Because the majority of these crimes involve the use of firearms, they often end in physical harm or death. The Jewelers Security Alliance (JSA), an organization that gathers data on jewelry crimes, is often used by the FBI and law police to coordinate searches.

According to JSA statistics, the number of jewelry thefts increased by 1 percent in 2019 compared to 2018. The current rise in jewelry thefts, according to JSA president John Kennedy in 2020, may be linked to a variety of relevant reasons.

Kennedy said that following many years of substantial decreases in dollar crime losses, the sector received a shock in 2019 as a result of high dollar crime losses generated by extremely active professional gangs, especially sophisticated burglary gangs, according to the Smoking Gun.

Another Man Committed the Same Crime

In a published article in NBC News, according to police, a Florida man stole an engagement ring and wedding rings from a girlfriend and used them to propose to another woman. Sheriff's officers in Volusia County stated an arrest warrant had been issued for Joseph Davis, 48 years old.

Their investigation began earlier this year, when a lady from Orange City, Florida, informed police that she learned that her partner was engaged to another woman. She saw a picture of the fiancee wearing a wedding band and engagement ring that was similar to her own from a previous marriage when she searched up the fiancee's Facebook profile, according to the sheriff's office.

When the Orange City lady examined her jewelry box, she discovered that her rings, as well as many other items of jewelry, were gone, including a grandmother's diamond ring. According to the sheriff's office, the total worth of the stolen goods was about $6,270.

The Orange City lady contacted her fiancee, who returned some of the things; and the two of them ended their relationship with Davis, also known as "Joe Brown" and "Marcus Brown," according to the sheriff's office.

Davis has an active arrest warrant for a hit-and-run crash with injuries in Oregon and has previously been arrested for possession of fictitious ID, filing a false police report, domestic assault, and possession of cocaine with intent to sell, according to the sheriff's office.

Related Article: Meghan Markle Accused of Stealing Princess Diana's Jewelry Worth $10M She Worn in her Wedding



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On Thursday, attention was drawn to Biden's youthful appearance after a new book claimed Donald Trump mocked him for having an "awful facelift." Former President Donald Trump viewed himself as a shoo-in for the November presidential election after seeing Michael Bloomberg get pummeled on the Democratic debate stage in Las Vegas.

According to the source, while watching a discussion between the 2020 Democratic contenders, Trump made fun of Biden's stutter. In his book "Frankly, We Did Win This Election: The Inside Story of How Trump Lost," Wall Street Journal journalist Michael Bender described how Trump allowed reporters to attend the February 19, 2020 debate with him on board Air Force One as they traveled back from a Trump event that night in Phoenix.

Plastic surgeons have long noticed Biden's changing face

"I mean, honestly, did he spend all that money on the plastic surgery if he is going to cover it up," Trump mocked last year telling the crowd about Biden wearing a mask to protect against Covid-19.

During the 2008 campaign, Biden started to appear visibly different, according to surgeons. "Without any question, Joe Biden had hair transplants. He had bad plugs years ago," Dr. Barry Cohen, a Washington DC cosmetic surgeon, told the Washington Examiner.

The cosmetic surgeon also suspected Joe Biden of having regular Botox and potential filler and commented that he needs another facelift if he had one. Biden's procedures are now common, according to Cohen, so he does not anticipate them to be scrutinized. "No one cares anymore," he continued.

Plastic surgeons suspected that Biden was treated with porcelain veneers or a porcelain bridge for the 2012 vice presidential debates against Paul Ryan. While Biden's operations aren't flawless, they are nicely done, according to Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Lawrence M. Koplin.

MCAN health, a hair transplant operation located in Turkey, stated in a January blog that they felt like Joe Biden underwent some cosmetic procedures for his wrinkles that may involve facelift or other non-surgical procedures. Meanwhile, Dr. Steven Davis said in October last year that the President had a facelift after he reviewed his photos over the years. The doctor also noted that Biden's scars along the ear cartilage were pulled out, probably at least a year or older, The Sun reported.

Read Also: What Drunk Rudy Guiliani Reportedly Told Donald Trump on Election Night

Other President who allegedly had several plastic surgeries

Journalist Edward Klein published a book in 2015 titled "Unlikeable: The Problem with Hillary," in which he claimed that Hillary Clinton was operated on by a surgeon in a mini operating room in her home with the latest medical equipment and that she underwent secret plastic surgery before launching her presidential campaign in 2016.

According to Klein, Bill Clinton wanted her to have a facelift and that she couldn't do anything about the calendar but she could do something about the wrinkles and sagging skin on her face.

Per MEAWW, Hillary didn't want to travel to a clinic, so she requested a well-known plastic surgeon to build up a tiny operating room with the newest medical equipment at her Chappaqua, New York, home. Klein said that Clinton had her wrinkles and lines Botoxed and cheeks lifted. Also, the author claimed work done on Clinton's neck, eyes, and forehead.

Related Article: Joe Biden Says Unvaccinated Americans Put Communities at Risk, Offers New Strategy After Missing Goals



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Hello! I am the weekend anchor as well as a reporter for Your News Now! You can reach me with news tips (or just to say hello!) at khonigford@wlio.com.
Pipeline

15 July 2021

Accor, the leading international hotel operator in the Maldives, has signed a hotel management agreement with S Hotels and Resorts Public Company Limited and Wai Eco World Developer Pte. Ltd. (WEWD) to introduce SO/ Hotels & Resorts to this idyllic Indian Ocean archipelago.

SO/ Maldives will showcase a selection of 80 spectacular luxury villas, including beachfront and over-water options, all adorned with designer interiors and an audacious twist. Nestled on its own exclusive island overlooking the azure Emboodhoo Lagoon, just 15 minutes by speedboat from Male's Velana International Airport, this eclectic resort will bring a fresh sense of avant-garde style and sophistication to the Maldives, while also reflecting the local spirit of this captivating country.

Scheduled to open in 2023, the new resort will take centre stage on the third island of CROSSROADS Maldives, the extraordinary integrated leisure destination in the exotic South Male Atoll, connecting it to a wealth of world-class attractions and facilities.

Guests will be able to unwind on SO/ Maldives' private island or take advantage of fantastic facilities at The Marina @ CROSSROADS, an 800-metre lifestyle area and beach walk where visitors can discover cool cafes, refined restaurants, a chic beach club, upmarket boutiques, a spa, the Marine Discovery Centre and a 30-berth yacht marina. Unforgettable events can be hosted at the oceanfront wedding venue and meeting space.
Appointment

15 July 2021

Driftwood Capital, a vertically integrated commercial real estate investment, development, and lending platform specializing in hospitality, announces its founder & CEO Carlos J. Rodriguez has received the 2020 Hilton Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his contributions and lasting achievements with Hilton and the hospitality industry as a whole.

"I am honored and humbled to receive this prestigious recognition by Hilton, an organization that has been an important partner throughout my career," said Rodriguez. "We have enjoyed an excellent relationship with Chris Nassetta, Bill Fortier, Matt Wehling, and the entire Hilton team - I am proud to call them friends - and we have built, acquired or managed many Hilton properties over the years. Hilton embodies all the values I care for and is a company with a vision, trajectory, and reputation that is second to none. To be recognized by Hilton with this award is a true honor for me as well the entire Driftwood team."

The annual Hilton Legacy Awards program celebrates owners and development partners in the Americas for their contributions toward brand excellence and development efforts. The awards recognize the passion, creativity and innovative spirit of Hilton's partners who are committed to quality projects that meet or exceed brand standards and have a positive impact on communities around the world. The leadership of Hilton's development and brand teams select the winners based on strict criteria including, but not limited to, hotel quality and commitment to guest experience. To see the full list of Hilton's 2020 Legacy Award winners click here.

Rodriguez is the founder and CEO of Driftwood Capital, which allows accredited investors to co-invest in a cash-flowing institutional hotel property post-closing. He is also the former Chairman and CEO of Cardel Hotels, a group of affiliated hotel management, ownership and development companies based in Miami, Florida. In 2003, Cardel merged with Driftwood Hospitality Management (DHM), and Rodriguez helped grow that company into one of the largest hotel operators in the country. Today, DHM is an award-winning operator that employs over 5,000 associates and manages more than 15,000 rooms.

Rodriguez holds a BA in Finance from Vanderbilt University and an MBA from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business. He also serves on the Board of Advisors of Duke University's Fuqua School of Business and the Advisory Board of the University of Miami Master of Real Estate Development and Urbanism Program. He is also a member of Jackson Memorial Hospital's Golden Angels and Baptist Health's Founder's Society.
Appointment

15 July 2021

Independent Hotelier and current Chairman of the group, Tim Rumney will take over from Rob Paterson later this month as Interim CEO later this month.

Rob Paterson, who joined BWH Hotel Group in 2018, has decided to leave the brand which represents almost 300 independently owned hotels in GB. In his place, Tim Rumney, who has been Chairman of the group's board for five years and Board Member for 12 years, is stepping into the role of Interim CEO for a period of at least six months, providing stability and continuity for employees and hotels within the membership organisation.

On Rob's departure and his new role within BWH Hotel Group, Tim Rumney said:

"It has been a pleasure working alongside Rob since 2018, where his commercial acumen and hospitality expertise has truly benefitted our brand portfolio. At a time where hospitality businesses are still suffering, I am proud to be stepping in as Interim CEO for the brand, to continue the great work Rob and his team have been doing throughout the pandemic, to best support our hotels.

We have exciting opportunities ahead of us to refocus the organisation for our members as we emerge from the pandemic and move into the recovery mode as a more effective commercial business whilst retaining our 'by hotelier for hotelier' ethos."

Earlier this year, the membership organisation reported a surge in new hotels joining their brand portfolio, including the addition of World Hotels Distinctive Collection Ten Hill Place in Edinburgh, taking its total to almost 300 members.
Supplier News

15 July 2021

IDeaS Revenue Solutions, the worlds leading provider of revenue management software and services, announced it will participate as a Platinum Level sponsor at the upcoming Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) convention and trade show in Dallas, August 3-6, 2021.

IDeaS is planning a host of events and contact points to engage the franchisee and owner community in preparations for the new challenges of the post-COVID era. Elements of the expanded partnership with AAHOA include:

Growing ties with AAHOA membership  IDeaS expands its ties with AAHOA and will participate in regional events and sponsorships such as future leadership events, webinars and publishing for the educational benefit of AAHOA members.

 IDeaS expands its ties with AAHOA and will participate in regional events and sponsorships such as future leadership events, webinars and publishing for the educational benefit of AAHOA members. Happy hour podcast with Glenn Haussman  To celebrate the return of hospitality within the AAHOA community, IDeaS has sponsored a special edition of the Glenn Haussman Night Audit happy hour podcast.

 To celebrate the return of hospitality within the AAHOA community, IDeaS has sponsored a special edition of the Glenn Haussman Night Audit happy hour podcast. Interactive session  Sanjay Nagalia, COO and CTO of IDeaS will speak to members on the trade show floor August 5, from 2:00 p.m. to 2:25 p.m. during an interactive session about critical franchisee revenue management considerations.

 Sanjay Nagalia, COO and CTO of IDeaS will speak to members on the trade show floor August 5, from 2:00 p.m. to 2:25 p.m. during an interactive session about critical franchisee revenue management considerations. Trade show presence  IDeaS leaders will be on hand to discuss revenue challenges of the post-pandemic period with attendees at booth #535.

Sanjay Nagalia, chief operating officer and chief technology officer, IDeaS, said: IDeaS provides revenue management solutions to more than 15,000 clients worldwide, including over five thousand in the limited service and franchise space. We have developed solutions specifically to help franchise owners forecast, optimize and maximize revenues and move toward operational efficiency and excellence at their hotels. We are eager to help AAHOA members expand their revenue management efforts and look forward to being a valuable resource as we celebrate the return of travel.

For more information or to contact IDeaS to meet at AAHOA, contact [email protected]
Press Release

15 July 2021

Vital industry initiative aims to support hospitality undergraduates and graduates professional growth, harness entrepreneurial skills and directly connect them with peer-groups and hospitality brands across the UK and Europe

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The Student Council will also help to overcome the industrys challenge of attracting talent and raise the profile of the industry

Hospitality undergraduates and graduates across the UK and Europe are set to benefit from a vital new career and industry initiative which will be launched by HSMAI Europe in September 2021. The HSMAI Europe Student Council will support hospitality students and recent graduates based in the UK and Europe by connecting them directly with other peers and hospitality brands across the region. The Student Council aims to provide a much-needed forum to facilitate and support undergraduates professional growth during their studies, as well as during the early stages of their career as they make the transition from graduate to getting their first job in the industry.

Emile Schelfhout, who recently graduated with an MBA in International Hospitality Management at Hotelschool The Hague and is completing his MSc in Corporate Finance & Banking at EDHEC Business School in Nice, has been appointed to head up and lead The Student Council.

He will work in collaboration with Ingunn Hofseth, President and CEO of HSMAI Region Europe, other Board members and be supported by other students  their Council appointments will be announced nearer the launch.

I ngunn Hofseth, President & CEO at HSMAI Region Europe said We aim to help the students build a network beyond their usual scope, stimulate their professional growth, and create a sense of belonging within our magnificent hospitality industry.

The Student Council will regularly hold virtual, hybrid, live events and workshops for members of the council so they can harness vital skills required in the industry including digital innovation, branding and the importance of having a more entrepreneurial and innovative mindset in the post-pandemic era.

The Students will also have regular access to potential mentors from the HSMAI Europe Membership including senior management and marketers who work for both large and independent hospitality brands. It will serve as a vital hub for students to gain valuable strategic insights and also help them to identify brands they would be keen to gain an internship with during or immediately after their studies. In addition, students will meet with their peers from other hospitality business schools across the UK and Europe to share different views and offer advice.

The new initiative is set to be welcomed by many UK and European hotel business schools and universities along with thousands of hospitality brands in the industry who have been battling with the challenges of finding, attracting and retaining graduates. Valerie De Corte, Global Alliance and Partnership Director at Ecole hoteliere de Lausanne- EHL  regarded as one of the worlds leading hotel business schools, has already confirmed that the School will be supporting the new initiative and joining The Student Council.

Ingunn Hofseth, President and CEO of HSMAI Region Europe said: We continually consult our members about how HSMAI Europe can support the industrys growth, and how we can support and critically overcome the challenges to find the right talent. This has propelled HSMAI Europe to take action, as now more than ever it is vital we all collaborate and try to overcome the challenges of talent acquisition and retention.

Todays students and graduates are the lifeblood of the new hospitality economy. The Student Council will not only create a wonderful hub by facilitating networking between students and businesses, but also bridge many of the skills gaps that are required in the modern era of hospitality.

This is an exciting time as we partner with many hotel business schools and universities and help their students strengthen their professional and enterprise skill set so they can stand out with their future employers.

Emile Schelfhout, Leader of HSMAI Europe Student Council comments: Since I joined HSMAI Europe in March 2020, the association has boosted my professional growth. I cannot wait to share this experience with other students. The council provides the perfect means to do so.

We want to help students standout, and support them in their journey to becoming young professionals in an environment that promotes inclusivity, responsibility, and sustainability. The fact that this council operates across hospitality business schools makes it the first of its kind worldwide.

Valerie De Corte, Global Alliance and Partnership Director at Ecole hoteliere de Lausanne comments: The hospitality industry will need to rely on emotional and artificial intelligence to manage complex environments, reinvent models, and be committed to a sustainable world.

To provide students with the best tailor made experience and the necessary skills to succeed in their career and in life, we need to embrace the best of both the real and virtual worlds in our educational methods. Therefore, the connection with key industry players is more important than ever. HSMAI Europe is helping the industry connect the dots between hospitality professionals, future leaders and academic institutions.

For more information on the HSMAI Europe Student Council, please contact us at [email protected]
Press Release

15 July 2021

In the past 15 months, the hotel industry has suffered one of the most significant losses in gross booking quantity ever. However, despite volumes in 2020 being 69% lower than the previous year, we have been monitoring the reservation types, channels and rates to gain insights into trends that could help hotels plan the recovery.

In 2019 we published our first analysis of distribution trends, titled A Deep-dive into European Hotel Distribution trends 2014-2018, in which we uncovered the sheer volume of cancellation rates from OTAs and how this was affecting hotels. The report laid out a lot more on how the industry, at its peak during the study, was changing.

Our second analysis in 2020 was broadened to look into the trends not only in EMEA but also in Asia-Pacific (APAC). The report, called The Rise of Direct Bookings Over OTAs, brought to light how patterns had changed due to the pandemic, and how direct bookings were taking a much bigger part of a much smaller market.

This study is the follow-up to our 2020 partial analysis. In this report, we examined the year 2020 in its entirety (to better understand the impact of the pandemic), and reviewed the first five months of 2021. The information included in this research has been gathered from 3,442 hotels in Europe and 438 hotels in the Asia-Pacific region.

Key findings

The Website Direct channel surpassed Booking and OTAs in Asia* (41% share), and is the second largest in Europe (32%) In 5 years, OTAs market share has declined by 11 points in Europe and by 14 points in Asia* Expedias loss of market share continues, losing 12 points in Europe and 10 points in Asia-Pacific* European average Hotel Booking Value increases by 12% in 2021 showing renewed confidence and demand for travel In 2020, Cancellation doubled with Expedia hitting 71% cancellations and Booking almost 60%. In Eruope, we expect to return to 2019 levels as demand picks up and travel rules stabilise.

Global booking trends: recovery is still fragile

Globally speaking, the reservation volume in 2021** is still 40% lower than 2019 figures  but 159% above the March to May months of 2020. That being said, the EMEA market shows promising signs of improvement, while APAC, after an initial recovery, saw a steady decline, mainly due to the new lockdowns.

The recovery is happening and we can see that once restrictions are lifted there is evidence of pent-up demand in the markets. However, the recovery is fragile with high levels of uncertainty which is affecting prediction beyond one or a maximum of two months ahead. This is affecting cancellation rates as we discuss below.

Direct booking growing faster and faster

In the 2020 report on hotel distribution we had observed that Website Direct bookings were one of the fastest-growing channels, however take into account that gross reservation volumes are much lower. We cover some of the reasons for increased Website Direct in section IV below.

In 2021, we saw a continued increase in revenue generated by the direct channel. In Europe, almost one third of the total reservations are produced by Website Direct and, in APAC*, direct became the leading channel, both in 2020 (37%) and in 2021** (41%). This surge was mainly at the expense of Expedia, which showed equivalent negative numbers in both regions: 7% market share in 2021** for Europe versus 10% in 2020 and 6% in 2021** versus 8% in 2020 in APAC*.

Pushing the analysis to June 2021, we even observe that for this later month, in Europe, Website Direct is the first and, so far, the only channel in which booking levels are back, to the pre-pandemic levels.

Photo: D-EDGE Hospitality Solutions

Website direct surpasses Booking.com in APAC*

In Asia*, direct became the main source of revenue already in 2019, and it increased its market share even more solidly in 2020, reaching the all-time best result of 41% in 2021**. We believe the higher number of local travellers since the beginning of the pandemic may explain this peak of direct reservations in the last 15 months, as proximity tourists made the majority of traveling in 20-21, and they are, usually, less likely to book via an OTA, preferring direct channels.

Photo: D-EDGE Hospitality Solutions

OTAs are losing market share

In our previous hotel distribution study, we had already pointed out how OTAs were experiencing a loss in market share in both Europe and Asia-Pacific. Even though they remain, in both markets, the dominant source of online revenue, this negative trend persisted in 2021. Especially in Asia*, OTAs market share decreased by four points, going from 60% in 2020 to 56% in 2021**. If we look at the last five years, OTAs market share in Asia* dropped by 14 points (from 70% to 56%). Continuing the trends we had observed in 2020, the pattern is even more visible in the first few months of 2021**. Last year, we speculated that this drop might have been caused by the reduction in advertising by OTAs, resulting in higher rankings in search engines for website direct. Most Online Travel Agencies resumed some SEA actions in 2021, even though not at the same levels of 2019, so the causes should be searched somewhere else. At D-EDGE, we believe this may be due to a combination of reasons:

More relevant information on hotel websites when compared to OTAs, especially regarding anti-COVID measures,

More flexible policies on website direct,

Rate disparity favoring direct channels, especially on metasearch engines,

More domestic/local travellers, with no need for air transportation,

The lower overall volume of bookings giving preference to frequent travellers who are more informed about the advantages of booking direct.

However, this negative dynamic is not applicable to all OTAs, and some players stood out:

Booking.com, the undisputed leader, has shown a strong resilience, especially in Europe, accounting for 47% of the hotel bookings revenue generated in the region. Airbnb, even though they have a much smaller market share (in hotel distribution), grew steadily over the last five years. And, with a market share growth of 20x, its worth keeping an eye on. If interested in this channel, we recommend you watch the webinar we held with Airbnb How to get started on Airbnb. Some Local OTAs have benefited from a strong growth likely due to increased domestic demand and have shown to be a good source of additional bookings for hotels. For example, in Hungary Szalla.hu has gone from 7% to 12% of the hotels online sales between 2019 and 2021**. In the Czech Republic, Hotel.cz has grown its market share by more than 300%. In the Netherlands, Hotelspecials.nl has multiplied its share by 26x. And in Indonesia, Traveloka has grown from 53% to 58% of the market share and Ticket.com has grown from 7.65% to 14%.

More than ever, having a smart mix of distribution channels is of great importance.

Photo: D-EDGE Hospitality Solutions

Photo: D-EDGE Hospitality Solutions

Booking Value is back in Europe

Average booking value decreased dramatically in 2020, for both Europe and Asia*. However, in Europe, over the first part of 2021** it came back to 2018 levels (with the exception of reservations coming from Expedia) for European properties. Its worth mentioning that average booking value in Europe surpassed both 2018 and 2019 levels, contributing to the higher value of bookings. APAC* shows different numbers, with a drop of booking value that is steady, except for website direct, even though it is still far from pre-pandemic figures. In this region, Booking Groups booking value is around half of what it used to be in 2018. Again, this may be explained by the majority of travel being local in 20-21, and consequently, to a shrinking length of stay that is addressed in the next section.

Photo: D-EDGE Hospitality Solutions

Length of stay is down in APAC*

The average length of stay decreased dramatically in Asia while returning to pre-pandemic levels in Europe. This is probably because most of APAC travel in 20 and 21 was domestic, in a region that usually has a higher length of stay and is more accustomed to longer travel time than Europe. Because of the fast-changing travel restrictions inside the region, the risk for cancellation remains, unfortunately, very high.

Photo: D-EDGE Hospitality Solutions

Lead-time is better than pre-pandemic levels in Europe

Even when it comes to lead-time, Europe and Asia show very different numbers. While the booking window in Europe reached  and in some cases, even surpassed  pre-pandemic figures, this is not the case for APAC*, where the lead-time remained virtually identical to last year, probably due to the fact that travel restrictions remain very heavy in this region. With the reopening of almost all countries in Europe, in the spring of 2021, travellers have regained confidence with a vital need to prepare for their holidays in advance. Hence this very strong increase in lead time in Europe.

However, as we cover in the next section, these lead times need to be seen through the lens of Cancellations which are, understandably, at an all-time high with the fast-changing travel restrictions and lockdowns.

Photo: D-EDGE Hospitality Solutions

The year of cancellations

During the pandemic, we witnessed the decline of not refundable rates in hotels. The vast majority of reservations made in 2020 and 2021** are, in fact, flexible. This is not surprising, due to the instability created by the pandemic: new variants of the virus, ever-changing restrictions on travel, etc.

With virtually 100% of reservations being refundable, its not unexpected that the cancellation rate rose as well. In 2021**, particularly, almost six out of ten bookings have been canceled on Booking Group. The situation is even more alarming for Expedia, surpassing the 71% cancellation rate. Direct channel, again, shows better results, with only 1/3 of reservations being canceled before arrival.

Compared to our first Hotel Distribution Analysis these cancellation rates have more than doubled for almost every channel except Website Direct, which has remained the channel with the lowest rate of cancellations.

While the years prior to the pandemic had seen a gradual improvement in cancellation rates we believe that high cancellations will be standard in the foreseeable future. We recommend hotels adapt and learn to work with cancellations, for example by communicating with guests as much as possible in advance of any changes, sharing information related to their stay, re-confirming their booking, or encouraging an early cancellation for dates where demand is rising. Using a connected CRM tool where such communications can be automated and friendly will help hotels avoid last-minute cancellations for days where hotels would otherwise be full.

Photo: D-EDGE Hospitality Solutions

Conclusions

While we are seeing some stability in bookings in EMEA we advise hotels to remain agile and guest-first in their approach to revenue for the rest of 2021. The demand for travel exists and restrictions are being eased, which we are seeing in the demand. But as these restrictions are changing frequently, hotels should ensure they are keeping the guest informed and helping the guests when changes occur so they return as soon as they can.

The rise in Website Direct and the increased reliability (lower cancel rates) in those bookings have renewed the importance of the channel. Hotels should take advantage of this time to review their website and ensure it is up to the latest standards. Changes in tracking standards across the internet make it even more important to update ones website now, fully integrated hotel websites are becoming mandatory to correctly measure the efficiency of marketing and improve the guest experience.

Look for more niche distribution channels where you can capture the domestic market or OTAs in countries where you believe there could be a potential market for you. Working with your Channel Management provider, grow the list of distribution channels you work with and maximise your chances of being seen.

As an industry, we can safely predict that there will be a lot of changes in the coming 12 months. We recommend hotels work with their solution providers and stay abreast of best practices since these will likely be completely different, quarter to quarter and even month to month.

* Excluding mainland China

** January to May 2021
Opinion Article

15 July 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic is a once-in-a-generation crisis with lasting economic and societal consequences. Crises and disasters often bring unpredictable catastrophic changes to the market. Yet, effective management of a crisis can help businesses reduce the event's negative impacts and shorten the recovery time.

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As the global economy begins to recover, businesses are making changes to adapt to the post-pandemic world. For example, more companies now let employees work from home permanently.

When people work remotely and classes are taught online, social media plays an even more critical role in crisis communication than before. Research identifying the types of social media messages that get people's attention during the COVID-19 pandemic is timely and helpful in supporting business decisions regarding crisis communication.

I worked with Drs. Jungwoo Lee at Yonsei University in South Korea and Spring Han at Kyoto University in Japan on a project entitled "Crisis communication on social media: What types of COVID-19 messages get the attention?" We published our work in the Cornell Hospitality Quarterly.

The research framework

We framed our investigation under the Situational Crisis Communication Theory (SCCT). SCCT was introduced to help organizations select the appropriate communication strategies to minimize a crisis' threat to their reputations, depending on the level of responsibilities that the public attributes to the organization. According to SCCT, when an organization holds no responsibilities for the COVID-19 crisis, bolstering posture/strategies will be most pertinent when communicating with its stakeholders, such as:

Reminding  To remind its stakeholders about the organization's good work in the past. For example, a hotel chain may share updates about its leadership position in providing exceptional customer service.

Ingratiation  To praise its stakeholders' work, contributions, or efforts. For instance, a restaurant may post updates about how its staff works with other community members to cope with a crisis.

Victimage  To explain how the organization is also a victim of a crisis. For example, an airline may share news about the pandemic's devastating impacts on the industry or the hardship it experiences during a crisis.

The research questions

Drawing from SCCT and relevant literature, we expected most companies would use Reminding, Ingratiation, and Victimage strategies to communicate with their stakeholders on social media. Additionally, they would heavily utilize photos as the means for content sharing. We focused our research setting in the hospitality industry, aiming to answer four research questions:

Do hospitality companies also use the Reminding, Ingratiation, and Victimage strategies to communicate with their stakeholders about the COVID-19 crisis? Do hospitality companies share content in photos more frequently than in other forms of media, such as videos, hyperlinks, or pure text? What are internet users reactions toward hospitality companies' COVID-19 messages compared to the non-COVID-19 messages? What are internet users reactions to hospitality companies' social media messages in different media types?

The data and the analysis

We retrieved 657 Facebook and 754 Twitter messages initiated by eight of the worlds largest hotel chains between January 1 and June 19, 2020. These eight hotel chains include Marriott, Hilton, IHG, Wyndham, Choice Hotels, Best Western, Hyatt, and Radisson, a portfolio of over 5.26 million hotel rooms in the global lodging market. After a few preliminary analyses, we trained two graduate students to code all messages into six (6) message types:

Prevention  To inform an organizations stakeholders of the proactive procedures taken or will be taken to cope with a crisis. For example, a hotel may inform travelers that it has adopted enhanced hygiene protocols to ensure every room is thoroughly cleaned.

Reminding

Ingratiation

Victimage

Updates  To inform an organizations stakeholders about its adjustments in operations due to the crisis. For instance, a hotel may update its cancelation policy or extend the expiration date of its loyal customers elite status and reward benefits/points.

Non-COVID-19 messages  To share other updates that are not relevant to the COVID-19 crisis, such as a promotional offer or showing support to the #BLM movement.

After confirming the intercoder reliability, we used the z scores of reactions/likes, comments, and shares/retweets to measure internet users attention to a Facebook/Twitter message. Finally, we performed a series of descriptive analyses as well as ANOVA and post-hoc analyses to answer the four research questions.

The key research findings

The types of COVID-19 messages shared by the hotel chains

We observed a sharp decline in information sharing by the eight hotel chains after WHO announced the global pandemic in March 2020. Furthermore, it was also not until March 2020 that the eight hotel chains began sharing updates about COVID-19, even though the first coronavirus case was first reported in China back in December 2019, and the virus quickly spread to other countries before March 2020.

IHG and Hyatt shared the most COVID-19 updates, but Marriott, being the worlds largest hotel chain, only published a total of six COVID-19 messages on Facebook and Twitter. Ingratiation was the most used strategy by the sample, accounted for 48.06% of the 308 COVID-19 messages on both platforms, followed by Updates (30.85%)and Prevention (13.63%). Four hotel chains did not use the Reminding strategy at all. Moreover, only two hotel chains used the Victimage strategy (11 times by IHG on both platforms and once by Best Western on Facebook). The popular medium used by the hotel chains

Photos and videos were the dominant media used by the sample. No hotel chains in the sample shared pure-text messages on Facebook. Additionally, many hotel chains shared messages in a combination of two or more media types (e.g., photos + hyperlinks, photos + hyperlinks + videos, among others). Marriott and Best Western were well versed in using images in communications. Hyatt topped the list in terms of video sharing.

The types of COVID-19 messages that get the attention

Overall, internet users paid more attention to COVID-19 messages than non-COVID-19 messages, giving COVID-19 messages more reactions/likes, comments, and shares/retweets. Among different types of COVID-19 messages, Prevention, Reminding, Ingratiation, and Updates seemed to get more attention. Visual content gets more reactions/likes, comments, and shares/retweets

It is not surprising to observe that messages attached with videos and/or photos get more attention on Facebook and Twitter than those with hyperlinks or in pure text. The power of visual content cannot be ignored.



The implications

We extended SCCT by introducing the Prevention strategy under the Rebuilding Posture. Unlike other cross-sectional survey studies, this research examined the real-time information exchange among an organization and its stakeholders. Its results provide insightful knowledge for businesses wanting to maintain active communications with their stakeholders on social media. We recommend managers and business owners consider the following managerial implications:

Regarding a message's content

Actively use social media to communicate with their stakeholders about a crisis.

Keep people informed about what the business is doing to cope with the crisis.

Although underused, remind stakeholders from time to time of the outstanding work that the business did in the past.

Highlight the good deeds that the stakeholders are doing to cope with the crisis and tag them if allowed (e.g., mentioning a supplier or an associate)

Although underused, try the Victimage strategy to see if it could also be effective.

Share changes and updates of operations on social media.

Use social media as a communication tool instead of a pure marketing outlet because stakeholders want to hear updates about COVID-19 and other concurrent events (e.g., #BLM).

Regarding media usage

Create short videos to communicate with the stakeholders.

Continue utilizing photos as the visual content.

Select an appealing image as a preview of a hyperlink.

Attach a video or photo to a message.

Avoid long messages; try to use 130 or fewer characters in an update, which will make it look like a "picture" on Facebook.

The conclusion

Our work is not without limitations, but we believe our analysis can benefit many organizations besides those in the lodging industry. We highly encourage businesses to test if the crisis communication strategies presented in our study also work for them and, if so, in what situations. Keep in mind that one tactic might work in a unique setting but not others.

As we are navigating through the pandemic, what types of social media messages will get peoples attention? Do you have first-hand experience to share with us?

For example, if you are a content manager, what types of crisis communication strategies work well for your organization? If you are an active user on one or more social media platforms, what types of messages get your attention?
Oil fell for a second day after a surprise jump in U.S. gasoline stockpiles tempered signs that the American market has returned to robust health.

Futures in New York slid near $72 a barrel after falling 2.8% on Wednesday, the most since mid-May. American inventories of gasoline and distillates -- a category that includes diesel -- both rose last week. Demand for gasoline pulled back from record levels seen at the start of the month, but average levels of consumption are returning to normal.

There were also signs OPEC+ may be able to revive supplies soon, as delegates said the United Arab Emirates made significant progress in resolving its standoff with Saudi Arabia. A deal is taking shape that would give the UAE a more generous output limit next year, and allow the group to restore halted production.

Oil has rallied almost 50% this year as the vaccine rollout lifts demand in major economies such as the U.S. and China, and fosters a recovery in Europe. Futures prices are still showing a premium on nearer-term contracts, known as backwardation, which usually indicates tightness. But there are risks to the recovery amid the spread of the highly-transmissible delta variant of the virus.

On the demand side of the oil balance, the running amok of the delta variant of the coronavirus causes headaches among investors, said Tamas Varga, an analyst at PVM Oil Associates Ltd. in London. This certainly hinders economic growth that might have a negative impact on the demand recovery.

The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries published its first detailed assessment of 2022, in which it forecast that global oil demand will steadily recover to surpass pre-pandemic levels in the second half of next year. However, it also pointed to a lull in the first quarter that may help explain Saudi Arabias fixation with moving cautiously.

In the U.S., gasoline stockpiles rose by more than 1 million barrels last week, official data showed on Wednesday. A Bloomberg survey had forecast a 2 million-barrel draw. Distillate inventories climbed by about 3.7 million barrels, more than expected, while crude supplies declined by 7.9 million barrels. As a result, the backwardation for yearly spreads between December contracts has come under pressure.

Traders are watching closely to see whether the OPEC+ coalition calls another meeting to resolve the bitter dispute between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, which broke out earlier this month.

While the two countries appear to be closing in on an agreement to revise Abu Dhabis production quota, it would still need to be ratified by the whole group before they can salvage plans to revive halted supply. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. said an accord would be a bullish catalyst, and would help remove the low risk of a potential price war.

The 23-nation OPEC+ block had intended to restore about 5.8 million barrels of offline production capacity -- still idled since the pandemic emerged last year -- in monthly tranches of 400,000 barrels a day. The International Energy Agency on Tuesday warned that the market would tighten significantly if the alliance didnt add more barrels.

Still, the two sides havent fully resolved their differences and talks are ongoing. There are signs other members of the alliance have been inspired to air their own grievances, with Iraq now seeking a higher baseline for its cuts too.
Michael Wyke / Contributor

LGI Homes has expanded its presence in Central Texas by acquiring Austin-based Buffington Homebuilding Group for approximately $40 million, the company announced.

The purchase includes more than 100 homes under construction, 350 finished lots and control of 150 additional finished lots that will be available for future sales. The acquired communities build upon LGIs entry-level offerings and create the opportunity to introduce its luxury Terrata Homes brand to the Austin market.
Theres an old adage that the secret to a restaurants success is location, location, location. By that measure, Pipers BBQ & Beer should be one of the most popular barbecue joints in Houston.

Located on a rapidly developing and highly trafficked stretch of North Shepherd between Interstate 10 and North Loop 610, it sits across from the always busy, two-story Heights H-E-B supermarket.

In terms of visibility and curb appeal, Pipers is well positioned. But what about the barbecue?

Fortunately, the ownership team of brothers Justin and Weston Piper brought in Richard Orozco, a relative newcomer to the citys list of talented, homegrown pitmasters. The result is one of the best new barbecue joints Houston has seen in years.

The Piper family have a background in the construction industry and opened their first restaurant in the Heights, Preslees, a couple of years ago. They had their eye on the former Copper Penny burger-joint location for a while, eventually opening Pipers BBQ & Beer in October 2020.

As part of the revamp of the building, the Pipers custom-designed and hand-built an all-wood-burning, steel upright smoker.

Pipers BBQ & Beer 2323 N. Shepherd, pipersbarbecue.com See More Collapse

It was our first try and a learning experience, says Weston Piper, alluding to the notorious intricacies of commercial-style barbecue pits.

If anyone could master those intricacies, it was their newly installed pitmaster. Orozco is a fourth-generation resident of the Heights, attended St. Pius X High School and received an undergraduate accounting degree and Master in Finance from the University of Houston.

After graduating, Orozco worked in accounting for 11 years. Like so many other aspiring pitmasters, his passion for barbecue started in the backyard.

I bought a used Klose pit and rebuilt it, says Orozco, and started cooking for friends and family.

He eventually started holding pop-ups in the area under the Heights Barbecue moniker.

Like a lot of people, the changes to his day job brought on by COVID-19 made him re-evaluate what he wanted to do with his future. He chose barbecue.

After applying to a couple of high-profile Houston barbecue joints as an assistant pitmaster and getting turned down (I think they thought I was overqualified, says Orozco), he worked a brief stint at Pizzitolas Bar-B-Cue before moving over to Pipers in November 2020 and becoming a co-owner, pitmaster and managing partner.

He brought on his brother Nick Orozco and friend Robert Quiroga to help out in Pipers pit room.

The result is a menu of classic Central Texas-style barbecue with a consistency unusual for such a new barbecue joint. On my recent visits, the offerings have been excellent, and I can tell Orozco and team are always implementing subtle changes to improve the barbecue.

One commitment is to zero-waste when it comes to brisket trimmings. Many barbecue joints have turned those trimmings into sausage and Pipers is no exception, with Quiroga making the excellent in-house sausage.

More recently, Orozco has turned the melted beef fat, known as tallow, into one of the most unusual dishes Ive tasted in Houston barbecue  smoked beef tallow ice cream.

Orozco melts the fat on the pit, giving it a slightly smoky flavor, then clarifies it to remove all the impurities. He then sends it to Fat Cat Creamery just a few blocks to the south, whom Pipers has partnered with to make the ice cream.

The tallow gives the ice cream a silky, rich texture and a subtle flavor of smoke. Orozco tops it with candied brisket  thin-sliced brisket covered in brown sugar and caramelized on a flat-top griddle.

Considering the whole team seems obsessed with tinkering, testing and experimenting, I cant wait to see what it comes up with next.

jcreid@jcreidtx.com

twitter.com/jcreidtx
While many advocates for African American landmarks across the nation are racing to protect and preserve history, 40 national sites, including Houston Freedmens Town Conservancy in Fourth Ward and the descendants of Olivewood Cemetery near White Oak Bayou, are getting some much-needed funding.

The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund, a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, announced Thursday it has awarded $3 million to help African American landmarks nationwide.
Are Texans nice? Not really, according to a new study.

The Lone Star state, with its reputation for friendliness, has been crowned one of the least kind states in the U.S., according to Kindness.org, a nonprofit whose mission is to educate and inspire people to choose kindness."

The study, commissioned by Verizon Wireless, ranked all 50 states from the most to the least kind.

Texas ranked 42.

Kinder than only: Michigan, Nevada, Massachusetts, Oregon, Florida, Arizona, Kansas and Maryland.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Piper's one of the best new barbecue joints Houston has seen in years

Researchers surveyed thousands of people from all states and backgrounds on what acts of kindness they would be willing to do  and the results for Texas were fairly negative across the board.

According to respondents, Texans were less likely to become an organ donor for a family member, pull a stranger from a burning car, or adopt and raise a family member or call up a friend to encourage them.



This might come as a surprise to some.



Texas comes from the Caddo Native American word for friends. Crossing the state border, drivers are welcomed to Texas by a giant road sign that says Drive Friendly  the Texas Way.



The study might also seem contrary to what other businesses, travel blogs and publications have said about Texas.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Houston suburb ranked No. 2 safest midsize city in America



Just two years ago Texas ranked fourth in the country for being one of the friendliest.



Big 7, an international travel blog, said Texas enthusiastic locals and greetings of Howdy! everywhere you go have surely helped it secure its place among the friendliest states in America. Its large cities are boosted with small town vibes from locals, who will welcome you with open arms.



According to Kindness.org, the kindest states are Kentucky, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Georgia and North Dakota, respectively.



Oliver Scott Curry, the research director for Kindness.org, said that Texans (and residents from other states) all reported a surprisingly high capacity for kindness, and the results for all the states were very close  there was only a few percentage points in it.



If you want to know, Texas scored 72.69 percent on the researchers scoring system. Nearby New Mexico and Oklahoma scored 77.55 percent and 76.94 percent, respectively.



Do not be dismayed, Curry said. This also means that there is all to play for during next years survey.



The study was part of Verizons A Call for Kindness campaign, an effort launched in November 2020 to encourage people to be kinder in their day-to-day lives. #ACallForKindess hopes to shine a spotlight on the impact all good deeds make, no matter how small.

timothy.fanning@express-news.net
Officials in Shenandoah are unhappy with their current fleet of five automated license plate readers, discussing the problems with the devices and how to possibly upgrade to better cameras during preliminary city budget discussions.

On HoustonChronicle.com: License plate readers up and running in Shenandoah

The issue of the automated license plate readers arose during the discussion of budget initiatives requested by Shenandoah Chief of Police Troye Dunlap. A total of $9,000 was sought for repairs to the citys current ALPR system, prompting a series of questions from council members.

Council member Ron Raymaker asked Dunlap how the citys current automated license plate reader system was working, and why $9,000 was needed for maintenance. The system has been in place for three years.

Dunlap said the five ALPRs the city owns  three are mounted on police patrol vehicles and two are set at fixed locations in the city  have been beset by malfunction issues and at times need to be refocused.

The ALPRs, were having to increase some funding for maintenance. The warranties are out on them and were having issues with them. We are having to get maintenance done on them periodically. They are going in and out, Dunlap said. Those cameras are breaking down, we are having to fix them, the officers are checking them constantly.

The three mobile and two fixed camera systems were purchased in March 2018 from Italy-based ELSAG, a company that produces readers for law enforcement agencies internationally, and were installed between early July 2018 and August 2018.

ALPR use rising

Increasingly used by police, sheriff deputies and cities across the nation, the camera systems can scan vehicle license plates and details at speeds up to 140 mph, entering the data into a national system managed by the Drug Enforcement Administrations High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas program, also known HIDTA.

On HoustonChronicle.com: License plate readers OKd by Shenandoah council

When a license plate is matched in the system with crimes, suspects, other illegal activities or violations, that information is then relayed to on-the-street officers who can try to locate suspected criminals. The program feeds data to more than a dozen state and federal law enforcement agencies including the Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Council member Charlie Bradt said he and Dunlap had visited the city of Conroe recently where the Police Department there uses a different kind of system called Flock Safety.

Both Bradt and Dunlap said the Flock system would be an upgrade over the current cameras.

It is a totally different ALPR systems. They are leased. There is no maintenance to it. They will take them down, theyll make sure it works. They will monitor (the cameras) just like ADT does your home, Bradt explained of Flock. You can tap into their database and view a license plate. They can track a red Cadillac with eight bumper stickers. Ive talked with (Dunlap) on locations (of existing ALPRs) and the locations are not the best, we are not getting the bang from the buck for where there are. I think there is a lot of improvement that can be had.

Cameras are popular

Shenandoahs ALPR camera systems are not the only surveillance in The Woodlands and South Montgomery County area, as many other regional entities utilize cameras of varying sorts. The Houston Police Department, Harris County Sheriffs Office and the Montgomery County Sheriffs Office all utilize automated license plate reader systems.

The Woodlands Township, which contracts out for law enforcement services with Montgomery County, has access to both fixed and mobile ALPR units on selected sheriffs office patrol vehicles and attached to traffic lights and other roadway infrastructure.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Woodlands board defers request for more license plate readers

A recent request from Montgomery county Sheriff Rand Henderson for more license plate readers on township patrol division vehicles is currently hold after Woodlands directors took no action on the request in March.

In March and April of 2019, more than two dozen high-tech, fixed position Department of Homeland Security surveillance cameras were installed in various locations along The Woodlands Waterway, inside the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion grounds and interspersed in wooded areas of Town Green Park.

At the time, Darren Hess, director of the Montgomery County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, said the agreement to install the cameras was part of a broader program to enhance public safety at locations and events around the United States, including in The Woodlands.

The Homeland Security cameras are a mix of two types of outdoor surveillance cameras with long, focal lenses and night vision capability. The cameras do not record any audio or sounds, only photographic images, Hess noted in a 2019 interview.

Future up in air

Dunlap said the current ALPRs Shenandoah has are on a year-to-year arrangement but he noted the warranty on the devices expired, meaning the city has to pay for repairs, noting we dont really have a contract on our current system.

During Wednesdays meeting, Dunlap said he would take direction from the council as they desired but asked to keep the maintenance funds in the preliminary budget, too.

If (a new system) is something were going to budget for next year, we might as well have the maintenance (funds) for the current cameras he added. The ones on the cars are being utilized. The cameras have to be at a specific angle, those have to be re-adjusted.

Dunlap said one element he was impressed with from the Flock Safety system is the ability for officers to use their cell phones as a license plate reader.

They also have a system that officers can download an application on their phone and their (cell) phone turns into a license plate reader, he noted. They can just walk up to cars and scan the license plate and itll bring up the plate (details) on their phone.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Shenandoah extends new farmers market through December

Looking ahead to the future, Mayor Ritch Wheeler asked city staff to explore the issue further for possible consideration of changes in the future.

Dunlap said he would be amenable to the city switching to the Flock system. He said cameras could be bought at Home Depot and the leasing cost of $2,500 for services from Flock Safety would save the city money in the long run.

It is a huge update from what we have. Any camera system can be adapted to by Flock. The Flock system has a lot to offer and I appreciated what I observed (in Conroe), he said. I did not budget for ALPR cameras, however if (the city) council wishes for me to put them in my budget, I will do my due diligence to make sure I look into all options and consider what best suits the needs of the city.

jeff.forward@chron.com
George Sweeney, 28, died in the early morning hours of July 15, 1914, in a gunfight near the corner of Texas and Travis.

Earlier, in a saloon on Main Street, W.A. Bridges and Edgar Perry, Sweeney's brother-in-law, became involved in a dispute. Sweeney somehow involved himself in it, made a threat and left the saloon.

Bridges later encountered Sweeney a block away and that's when the shooting started. Sweeney had taken refuge at the entrance to the Chronicle building, which faced Travis back then. During the shootout Sweeney was struck in the jaw and began to bleed profusely.

He took refuge in an elevator in the Chronicle building, but he was eventually taken to St. Joseph's Infirmary, where he later died. He is buried in Glenwood Cemetery.

The next day, the Chronicle reported that the scene of the duel had drawn plenty of onlookers.

"Thousands of curious people have visited the scene of the duel to inspect the bullet holes through the plate glass window of the Rice Annex drug store, the defacement above the door leading into The Chronicle Building, where one of Bridges' bullets found lodgement, and the blood stains on the marble floor," the paper noted.

By December of that year, prosecutors successfully asked a judge to dismiss a murder charge against Bridges.

"The evidence is insufficient to sustain a conviction," said District Attorney John H. Crooker. "The overwhelming weight of testimony shows that the deceased, Sweeney, was the aggressor in the difficulty and that the defendant acted in his necessary self defense."

Sweeney first landed in the Chronicle in 1909 when he and 16-year-old Helen Merle Perry eloped, touching off a legal fight with his new mother-in-law. When asked by a judge who she preferred to be with, she chose Sweeney.

Perry later gave birth to a son. The couple would divorce around June 1912 when she claimed he squandered $30,000 of her fortune and deserted her.

The story took a bizarre turn two months later when Sweeney held up an interurban car carrying Perry that had just left Galveston. He abducted her and took her to a vacant house in La Marque, where a judge married her again to Sweeney. He was arrested but released on bond. For reasons lost to history, Sweeney's in-laws weren't interested in prosecuting him and wound up sanctioning the marriage.

Click on the image below to enlarge.

(Click to enlarge)
Houston Police Department

Police are investigating a shooting scene where one man was found dead Thursday afternoon at a northwest Houston extended stay hotel, according to authorities.

Officers responded to the scene around 2:30 p.m. at the HomeTown Studios in the 5900 block of Guhn Road near Fawndale Lane.
OnSceneTV

A security guard shot a suspect who was stealing cars from an insurance lot early Thursday in north Harris County, officials said.

A group of people busted through a fence and stole multiple cars around 3 a.m. from a lot on the 800 block of Rankin Road, said Sgt. K. Hudson of the Harris County Sheriff's Office.
Houston Police Department

Two Houston police officers fatally shot a man who led them on a pursuit on the city's southeast side, according to Houston Police Executive Chief Matt Slinkard.

The man, only identified by police as a suspect, died at Clear Lake Regional Medical Center. Officers recovered a handgun on the floor board of his vehicle, near where he was sitting, Slinkard said.
A federal agency in charge of investigating industrial incidents is lagging on completing its reports and failing to recruit enough investigators with varied expertise to reduce the backlog, workers unions and environmental groups wrote to the agency last week.

The Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board has not finished 19 site investigations  according to its website and the letter writers, who believed that figure to be the most open investigations in the agencys history. The outstanding reports include four from the Houston area and three from other parts of Texas.

The CSB fills what advocates and others note is an important gap in monitoring industrial disasters. Its been likened to the National Transportation Safety Board, which investigates plane, rail and other accidents. The CSB looks for an events cause and figures out how future problems might be prevented.

In the letter dated July 8, groups such as the United Steelworkers, Earthjustice and Air Alliance Houston called for reforms to address what they said were growing concerns with the agencys ability to fulfill its mission. Another letter signer, the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, provided a copy of the document to the Houston Chronicle.

CSB said in a statement that it was reviewing the letter and will respond to the appropriate parties.

Investigators have addressed serious chemical issues in Texas in the past, prompting reform after disasters at the BP refinery in Texas City in 2005, at West Fertilizer in 2013 and at DuPonts La Porte pesticide plant in 2014. Investigators recently haggled with Harris County over documents related to fires here, which the fire marshals office said couldnt then be released.

Still, the CSB has faced criticism for years. A Houston Chronicle investigation in 2016 documented how the agency only responded to a small number of accidents in a given year. The CSB is also not a regulatory agency, and its recommendations to other federal agencies in many cases went ignored.

On HoustonChronicle.com: An industry left to police itself

By 2018, only 12 investigators worked at the CSB. President Donald Trump repeatedly proposed eliminating the agency, Bloomberg Law reported. Only one person remains on the agencys five-member board, though President Joe Biden in April announced three new picks.

Rick Engler, who served as a CSB board member from 2015 to 2020, said the agency has become increasingly dysfunctional. A more robust staff is needed long-term to prevent future chemical disasters, he said. And in the short-term, the agency needs enough staffing to keep up with its deployments.

I would argue that the White House needs to pay greater attention to whats going on at the CSB and provide assistance where necessary, Engler said. The CSB is a critical agency for protecting the safety of workers and communities but only if it functions effectively.

This all matters because a significant number of oil refineries, petrochemical plants and tank farms operate in the Houston region, said Neil Carman, clean air director for the Sierra Clubs Texas chapter. A chemical incident occurs every six weeks in the Houston area, the 2016 Chronicle investigation found.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Loss of investigators slows key federal chemical safety agency

And those incidents have the potential to injure and cause fatalities. Among those that the CSB is investigating are the Watson Grinding explosion and fire in 2020 that led to two worker deaths; the KMCO explosion and fire in 2019 that caused one death; and the Kuraray America plant explosion in 2018 that injured 21 workers.

Then there were the tank fires at the Intercontinental Terminals Co. facility in 2019 that burned for days.

Responding and issuing reports quickly becomes important to prevent future disasters, Carman said. He noted that almost every accident is preventable: Theres just a lot of industrial accidents happening, he said, and the timing is a big deal.

emily.foxhall@chron.com

twitter.com/emfoxhall
A man accused of killing his ex-girlfriend was out on seven bonds for other crimes at the time of her death, despite repeated pleas by prosecutors to revoke his bail and bail bondsmen effectively trying to cut ties with him, court records show.

Police apprehended Zacchaeus Rashad Gaston, 27, late Wednesday in Houstons Alief area after a two-week manhunt. Hours later, a Harris County magistrate ordered that he be held on a $1 million bail rather than grant yet another no-bond request from the Harris County District Attorneys Office.

The killing of 24-year-old Layla Steele and the wounding of their 1-year-old child, Zeus, during a July 1 shooting comes at a tense time in Harris County. Republicans in the Texas Legislature have focused on the states largest county in their efforts to tighten the states bail policies. A proposed bill would restrict cashless bonds for violent offenders, although Gaston was never released by that method. The case does, however, provide an example of how some defendants out on bond and accused of new crimes are out of jail because they paid to get out.

Gastons attorney, Jeanie Ortiz, could not be reached.

More Information Gaston was out on surety bonds for the following cases: Sept. 3, 2019, Assault of family member, Bond: $50,000 (felony) Nov. 8, 2019, Failure to register as sex offender, $20,000 (felony) Feb. 10, 2020, Possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, $50,000 (felony) Sept. 16, 2020, Assault, $500 (misdemeanor) Oct. 14, 2020, Evading arrest, $1,000 (misdemeanor) Oct. 14, 2020, Felon in possession of a weapon, $25,000 (felony) April 4, 2021, Evading arrest, $30,000 (felony) See More Collapse

As Shirley Steele, prepared on Thursday to attend her daughters wake, she recalled her daughters last words. She had been worried that her daughter, who confided that she was scared of Gaston and trying to leave him, was in danger.

Steele was on the phone with her mother moments before the shooting. She heard her daughter cry out, Ma! Ma! before the line went dead.

Detectives notified her Thursday morning that Gastons two weeks on the lam had come to an end. For that, she is thankful.

Now I can breathe, she said.

At the wake, Gwendolyn Steele-Jackson, Steeles aunt from New Orleans, howled with grief as she gazed into her nieces coffin.

It was like seeing my mothers garden, Steele-Jackson later said. It looked like one of her beautiful flowers was taken out of her garden.

An outrageous case

Prosecutors requested numerous times over almost two years that Gastons bail be revoked or denied but he kept paying cash to get out of jail.

State District Judge George Powell presided over the case until his term expired in December. During that time, a bail hearing was never held. Judge Natalia Cornelio, now presiding over the 351st District Court, held a bail review hearing in April, according to court records.

Details of that hearing were not immediately available, but Gastons bail amounts were never changed.

Cornelio declined to comment, citing judicial Canon that prevents sitting judges from discussing individual cases. Powell did not respond to a request for comment.

The Harris County District Attorneys Office placed the onus on those jurists.

This tragedy is not about an inability of the court to predict what a person might possibly do in the future, but rather the apparent refusal by the judges to properly consider what this obvious predator has done over and over again while free on multiple felony bonds, said Dane Schiller, spokesman for the Harris County DAs office.

All this happened, despite the District Attorneys prosecutors repeatedly asking the court to revoke his bonds as his arrests accumulated, he continued.

A recent Houston Chronicle analysis reviewed murder charges in Harris County from 2013 to 2020 and identified 231 deaths linked to a defendant previously charged with crimes and out on bond. Cases involving defendants of this nature have already reached 70 so far in 2021 and are poised to surpass last years numbers.

The review found that 79 individuals were free on multiple bonds, misdemeanor or felony, before the murder charge; of those, 38 defendants were out on multiple felony bonds. None of the cases in the analysis crested six bonds, misdemeanor and felony combined, while Gaston reached seven bonds spanning more than two years.

The majority of people in the Chronicles review paid cash to be released, while two defendants with violent felony charges were instead granted personal recognizance  or cashless bonds  alone, meaning the rest paid some sort of cash to be released before a homicide occurred.

Devin Branch, political organizer for the civil rights group Texas Organizing Project, said Gastons continuous ability to make bail is actually proof that cash bail is the problem, not the solution.

It demonstrates that the cash bail system does nothing to protect our safety, Branch said. If anything, it is an example that if a person has resources, in spite of their ill intent, they are able to pay to bond out.

Defendants have a right to non-excessive bail under the Eighth Amendment. Judges in Texas are limited to denying bail only to capital murder defendants, and in a handful of other instances in which a person can only be held without bail for 60 days.

According to county data, 18,796 defendants were charged with new felonies and misdemeanors in 2020 while out on bond, a number that has tripled since 2015.

The Chronicles review found that Harris Countys case backlog reached more than 95,000 criminal cases in June, compared with 38,000 before Hurricane Harvey in 2017. Experts said that backlog is at the root of why cases are taking longer to resolve and resulting in more people awaiting trial on bond.

Andy Kahan, director of victim services and advocacy for Houston Crime Stoppers, cited Gastons case as a perfect example of why changes are needed in the felony bail system. The proposed bill would increase the use of cash bail for defendants deemed violent.

The Republicans bill includes a provision that bars charitable organizations from posting bond for defendants accused or previously convicted of a violent crime; an expanded list of offenses for which defendants may not be released on cashless personal bonds; and a public safety report that requires judges and magistrates to consider criminal history when they consider setting bail.

Kahan acknowledged that much of the bill would not have prevented Gaston from being released. But he pointed to a small provision that he said could have raised awareness around a case like Gastons, mandating that each court keep track of people released on bond and charged with new crimes.

Its more outrageous than a lot of the (cases) Ive seen, Kahan said.

Lengthy criminal record

Gastons criminal history in Harris County dates back a decade.

The rap sheet started with three felony convictions, including two burglary charges and one indecency charge in 2014 for exposing himself to a 16-year-old girl. That case prompted his status as a sex offender and a four-year prison sentence.

Prosecutors quickly deemed Gaston a habitual offender and asked for bail to be denied following his 2019 arrest linked to the assault of another ex-girlfriend. Harris County magistrate Lionel Castro instead ordered him held on a $50,000 surety bond; he posted the amount days later and was released.

Being in and out of custody for the next year and a half culminated in a motion this year in April to revoke his bond. The request cited new felony charges  felony in possession of a weapon, violation of protective order and evading arrest  as the predominant reason for wanting him in custody. Prosecutors also noted that Gaston had contacted Steele, whom the court prohibited him from seeing because he allegedly assaulted her.

A judge's signature on the motion could not be found, documents show. And a later bail review hearing did not change the amount he was held on  a combined $176,000 in sureties. He only needed to pay up to $17,000 to a bail bondsman.

Two cases that named Steele as the complainant were dismissed in April without explanation.

Frustration with Gaston reached a bail bonds representative  and others on other cases  on one of the misdemeanor assault cases.

In March, Sharon McCleveland requested to be released from liability because Gaston failed to show up to court and could not be reached. The document that McCleveland filed did request that a warrant be issued for Gastons arrest. Her request was never signed.

Jon Shapley contributed.

nicole.hensley@chron.com

samantha.ketterer@chron.com
This is the first of three articles exploring the two men vying to dominate the commercial space industry and the two Texas towns where they are launching their spacecraft.

Along the southern beaches and western mountains of Texas, two of the worlds richest men are launching rockets.

Geography, wealth and an obsession with space have fueled the enterprises of Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos. But other than murals depicting their skyward-gazing faces in Brownsville and Van Horn, respectively, the two have little in common.

These are egos engaged, said John Logsdon, who founded George Washington Universitys Space Policy Institute. There are individual aspects to this competition. It transcends normal business.

PRIORITIZING SPACE: TexSpace debuts to solidify Houston as Space City

Musk, 50, founded SpaceX in 2002. His more than 14,800 tweets have created a loyal fan base as he shares technical insights, answers direct questions and publishes random thoughts and memes.

Bezos, 57, founded Blue Origin in 2000. His Instagram is a more careful curation of family photos, celebrity selfies and information on his companies and causes.

SpaceX recently launched five Starship prototypes outside of Brownsville  the first four of these spacecraft exploded spectacularly. Success was measured by how much the company learned. Musk celebrated the first failure, Mars, here we come!!

Blue Origin had one partial failure out of 15 New Shepard rocket system launches north of Van Horn. On the first New Shepard launch, the rocket did not land in a gentle, upright position, but the capsule did land safely.

If New Shepard had been a traditional expendable vehicle, this would have been a flawless first test flight, Bezos said.

SpaceX has been fast and aggressive, not afraid to butt heads with regulators. Blue Origin has moved slowly and methodically. Theres an underlying rivalry, yet both companies are strengthening the states commercial space industry. Texas is increasingly known for more than just NASAs Johnson Space Center.

And theyre working toward the same lofty goal: giving more people access to space.

Now Playing: Video: Jon Shapley/Houston Chronicle

Ive never thought of it as anything other than a healthy competitive spirit, said Phil Smith, a space industry analyst at the analytics and engineering firm BryceTech, and not unlike the kinds of competition that occurred with railroads, newspapers and that sort of thing in ages past.

There is an important distinction between the two companies. SpaceX has developed a tried-and-true rocket, the Falcon 9, that has launched satellites and NASA astronauts into Earths orbit. Blue Origin is still developing a rocket that could push payloads into orbit, and its suborbital New Shepard system has not yet launched people.

Thats set to change July 20, when Blue Origin sends its first crew on an 11-minute journey to space and back.

Its a simpler mission than flying people to the International Space Station. But this New Shepard flight will have its own accolade  its sending the boss into space. Bezos is flying with his brother Mark, 82-year-old female aerospace pioneer Wally Funk and 18-year-old Oliver Daemen, the son of Joes Daemen, who founded Somerset Capital Partners investment firm based in the Netherlands. Daemens seat was purchased for an undisclosed amount.

FINALLY GOING TO SPACE: Wally Funk of the 'Mercury 13' will join Jeff Bezos on landmark Blue Origin space flight

He was almost the first billionaire to ride his own creation into space. But shortly after Bezos announced his July 20 flight, Virgin Galactic said its billionaire founder, Richard Branson, was headed into space. Branson took his flight from New Mexico on July 11.

Musk was there to cheer him on. Blue Origin originally released an aggressive tweet about how New Shepard would fly higher, but Bezos later congratulated Branson on Instagram.

Cant wait to join the club! Bezos said.

Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

Gulf Coast vs. wide-open West Texas

More Information BATTLE OF THE BILLIONAIRES This is the first of three articles exploring the two men vying to dominate the commercial space industry and the two Texas towns where they are launching their spacecraft. Part 1: Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos have little in common other than wealth, an obsession with space and Texas. Part 2: Elon Musk brought exploding rockets and soaring real estate prices to Brownsville. Part 3: Jeff Bezos brought Blue Origin to Van Horn. It changed the town. See More Collapse

In Texas, SpaceX and Blue Origin are using the states waterfront property and wide-open spaces to chase much different goals.

Its an accident of geography, Logsdon said.

SpaceX is developing and testing a system that could carry people to Mars. Its location on a South Texas beach means SpaceX can launch over water  away from most people  and to the east, where the Earths spin provides a boost. SpaceX also might launch from former oil rigs converted into ocean spaceports.

Blue Origin is targeting the suborbital space tourism market. There is plenty of uninhabited West Texas land to launch and then come back down.

Blue Origin has not said what it will cost to go into space. It held an auction for a seat on its first flight, and the winning bid was $28 million. This is being donated to Blue Origins foundation, Club for the Future, thats dedicated to STEM education. The highest bidder later opted for a subsequent flight due to scheduling conflicts. Daemen, who had a seat on the second New Shepard flight, was moved to the first flight.

PRACTICE RUN: Blue Origin gets crew dress rehearsal before launch from West Texas

The two companies compete more directly outside of the Lone Star State. They were among four companies, including Northrop Grumman and United Launch Alliance, to compete for a contract to launch national security missions.

SpaceX went into the competition with two flight-proven rockets: the Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy. Blue Origin proposed using its New Glenn rocket, which has not yet launched.

SpaceX has a pretty strong ground to justify its confidence, Smith said.

The Space Force, which became the sixth branch of the military in 2019, awarded contracts to SpaceX and United Launch Alliance in 2020.

United Launch Alliance, which has a proven track record with its Atlas V and Delta IV rockets, is planning to use its Vulcan Centaur rocket. The Vulcan Centaur has not yet launched. But when it does, it will use BE-4 rocket engines provided by Blue Origin.

Folks in government like to see the activity and the competition, said Brendan Curry, chief of Washington operations for the Planetary Society, a nonprofit that seeks to get more people engaged with space. If the federal government has a need for a space service and you have competition between a variety of players, you know at the end of the day it should work out ideally best for the taxpayer.

Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

More recently, SpaceX and Blue Origin have gone head-to-head for a NASA contract to land astronauts on the moon. A third company, Dynetics, also was being considered.

SpaceX proposed using Starship for NASAs human landing system. Blue Origin designed a lander in partnership with Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman and Draper.

NASA was expected to select two companies, but it ultimately chose just SpaceX. Congress didnt provide enough funding to support two landers.

Blue Origin is protesting this decision, and it has found a sympathetic ear in Congress. When the Senate passed the U.S. Innovation and Competition Act in June  a bill designed to keep America technologically competitive, particularly with China  there was a provision that would authorize $10 billion for NASA to select a second human landing system.

It is unclear if the legislation will get lost among other national priorities or if the desire to stay abreast of China will carry this bill through the house, Curry said.

The Human Landing System program needs competition, not the delay of starting over, Blue Origin said May 27 on Twitter.

Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

Some people love to hate  both of them

Feisty tweets are a new style for Blue Origin, which until recently had been quiet about its operations.

And SpaceX, which was initially more open, now is moving in the opposite direction, said Greg Autry, a clinical professor of space leadership, policy and business for Arizona State University. The company has grown to a point where its technology and national security missions could attract the attention of foreign adversaries.

SpaceX is, for very practical reasons, becoming less accessible, Autry said, and Blue is getting smarter about the value of public exposure.

Public perception of the billionaire founders also affects the companies.

Both are recognized as technology innovators. Theyre also extremely wealthy. According to Bloomberg, Bezos was the worlds richest man as of July 15 and Musk was the second-richest man.

Bezos also is viewed as someone who makes lavish purchases, including a superyacht, Logsdon said. He had a high-profile divorce, and Amazon gets criticized for its treatment of warehouse workers. More than 155,000 people have signed a petition titled Do not allow Jeff Bezos to return to Earth.

Musk has created a quirkier image. Hes become kind of a folk figure, Logsdon said, thats mainly positive.

TEXAS RESIDENT: Elon Musk confirms that he has moved to Texas

People like how Musk interacts with fans on Twitter. He jokes and feels more approachable than the typical billionaire.

Elons gone through the trouble to make them love him, said Autry, who also is launching an ASU executive masters program in global space management, where Bezos chose to be super secretive about his company to the point where it really irritated people in the space community early on.

Musks prolific use of Twitter also has gotten him into trouble. In 2018, Musk (who is also Teslas CEO) said he was considering taking the electric vehicle company private. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission charged Musk with securities fraud; this was settled with Musk agreeing to step down as Teslas chairman and to pay $20 million. Tesla also paid $20 million to settle its charge.

Still, SpaceX has a cult-like following that Blue Origin lacks. This can be seen on Louis Balderas LabPadre YouTube channel, which provides 24/7 livestream video of SpaceX in South Texas. His channel has 190,000 subscribers; ads and contributions from global SpaceX fans have doubled Balderas income.

His eight South Texas cameras have captured the companys launches, explosions and exponential growth.

It could be at 3 oclock in the morning and absolutely nothing going on, but a crane starts coming down the highway, Balderas said. Oh my God, theres a crane coming. What kind of crane is it? Wheres it going and how tall is it? People freak out on the littlest thing. They count cars. When theres nothing else going on, they count cars.

More people are traveling to the Brownsville area to see SpaceX. Someone even stayed in town for weeks driving Uber and waiting for a launch, said Ramiro Gonzalez, director of government and community affairs for the city of Brownsville.

You can tell theres a lot of excitement, Gonzalez said.

Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

Who are they?

The enthusiasm is not ubiquitous.

In April 20 comments sent to the Army Corps of Engineers, Sidney Maddock highlighted Blue Origins ability to launch and land rockets that dont explode. She also noted that Blue Origin is not located near valuable wetlands.

The recent successful activities of Blue Origin launching a rocket into space demonstrate that there are practicable alternatives for rocket launch activities that do not involve fill of valuable wetlands, wrote Maddock, an independent contractor who has done non-breeding piping plover research for agencies, universities and environmental organizations.

If there were an explosion with a Blue Origin launch similar to what occurred multiple times at Boca Chica with SpaceX, the Blue Origin rocket debris would not be falling in valuable habitats used by the threatened piping plover and other shorebirds and waterbirds, Maddock said.

GROWTH: SpaceX gives notice on expansion plans in South Texas

SpaceX initially sought at least $36 million in state and local tax subsides  $31.3 million for its launch site in South Texas and $5 million for its rocket engine testing facility in McGregor  and potentially millions more in property tax relief, records show.

Blue Origin said it did not receive any incentives or tax breaks.

"They never asked," said Culberson County Auditor Mark Cabezuela.

Cabezuela and Van Horn Mayor Becky Brewster said Blue Origin was a welcome newcomer to their community  but also a secretive one. Signing tax-incentive agreements with the city or county would require disclosing financial information that Blue Origin probably prefers to keep to itself, they said.

Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

In the case of SpaceX, which did not respond to a request for comment, its unclear exactly how much in tax incentives Musk's company ended up receiving. SpaceX backed out of some deals or failed to provide proof that it met its job-creation requirements, officials said.

The reason we never paid out anything to SpaceX is because they never provided (enough) documentation, said Raudel Garza, manager and chief executive officer of the Development Corporation of Harlingen Inc., which had agreed to pay SpaceX $450,000 if it could show at least 10 percent of its new hires were Harlingen residents.

The largest incentive pledged to SpaceX was $13 million from the states Spaceport Trust Fund. Gov. Greg Abbott's office didn't answer questions about how much has been spent by the trust fund, and it declined to immediately provide payment documentation to the Houston Chronicle after the newspaper filed an open records request for the information.

Brewster doesnt pay too much attention to SpaceX, though she has seen its explosions on the news. She prefers how Blue Origin is developing New Shepard north of her community.

I tend to be a little bit more cautious, Brewster said.

As a fan of both Star Wars and Star Trek, shes excited to see people launch into space. Others in the community also have become ardent Blue Origin fans. Local business owner Vance Cottrell hears the word SpaceX and responds, Who are they?

Of course, Twitter is full of Blue Origin mockery. Nice carnival ride. How long before you achieve orbit? @mobileheath said May 18.

But both companies are flying and will continue to fly, helping to make Texas the state of space.

John Tedesco and Mike Morris contributed to this report.
Ah, Cuba. If only the star-crossed Caribbean isle were merely an intoxicating mix of decaying Baroque buildings lining the crowded streets of Old Havana, vintage Chevys and Buicks from Joe Bidens era as a young car guy in Wilmington, Del., and the alluring sounds of love and loss from the Buena Vista Social Club. The island just beyond Floridas horizon, is, of course, so much more - for better and, unfortunately, for worse, as the largest protests in decades erupting in Havana and throughout the nation are reminding us.

Cubans have reached a breaking point. Theyre fed up with food and medical shortages, frequent power outages, a cash crunch and high inflation. Theyre fed up with the daily grind of a repressive regime unable to deliver the basics to a people who long for liberty as much as they do bread and milk on grocery-store shelves and aspirin in the farmacias.

Do you know what its like not to be able to buy my child food from the store? a 43-year-old homemaker in Havana asked a New York Times reporter. People are fed up with the abuse of power. We are desperate.

Desperation drove that woman and thousands of others into the streets last weekend. Carrying flags proclaiming Libertad!, they defied police beatings and arrests, possible detentions of anti-government activists and a crackdown on social media. It is one thing to wave a flag here in the U.S., where you arent risking your life. They are risking imprisonment and death, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, told Fox News earlier this week. As a young man, Cruzs father was imprisoned in Cuba before making his way to Canada.

President Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermudez, the first president not a Castro since the Cuban Revolution more than 60 years ago, reacted with predictably defiant rhetoric. Theyll have to walk over our dead bodies if they want to take on the revolution, he proclaimed earlier this week. Were willing to do everything, and well be on the streets battling.

Left unexplained by the president, however, was any notion of what precisely the revolution means in Cuba in 2021, nearly 65 years after Fidel Castro led an uprising that toppled the military dictatorship of President Fulgencio Batista.

There was hope for the better just a few weeks ago, when 89-year-old Raul Castro, successor as president to his brother Fidel, surrendered his last Communist Party position and shuffled off into retirement. With Castro presumably out of the picture, the hope was that Diaz-Canel as representative of a younger, less ideological generation would be willing to part with party economic and civil liberties shibboleths, but little seems to have changed. President since 2019, Diaz-Canel has been unable or unwilling to break in any serious way with the Castro approach, in part because of hardships caused by economic sanctions imposed by the Trump administration, as well as pandemic-related difficulties, but also because he apparently is more ideologue than pragmatist.

The demonstrations and Diaz-Canels obstinance present the Biden administration with a dilemma. Candidate Biden wisely promised to ease the Trump-imposed sanctions and to re-establish some version of engagement with Cuba, a policy hallmark of the Obama-Biden administration. But he sure took his time in engaging. A Cuba policy shift is not currently among President Bidens top priorities, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters in March.

There is no shortage of challenges at the top of any presidents agenda, and Bidens preference to deal with China and Russia, for instance, was reasonable. But as in the Middle East, when the fighting between Israel and the Palestinians caught the administration flat-footed, America seems to have been looking elsewhere as tensions in Cuba boiled.

Now, the Cuban demonstrations, the assassination of Haitis president and pre-election government repression in Nicaragua are forcing a foreign-policy recommitment toward crises closer to home.

Biden is saying the right things. We stand with the Cuban people and their clarion call for freedom and relief from the tragic grip of the pandemic and from the decades of repression and economic suffering to which they have been subjected by Cubas authoritarian regime, he said in a statement the White House issued earlier this week.

Beyond words, though, the president has three choices, all of them fraught. His first option is perhaps his worst: He can maintain the position of maximum pressure imposed by the Trump administration, the position forcefully advocated by U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Florida. A son of Cuban immigrants, Rubio is an influential voice in Congress on Cuba matters, although he conveniently ignores the fact that six decades of pressure have accomplished little if anything.

A second option might not be any easier, not politically anyway  and potentially, not any more likely to succeed in bringing change to Cuba. Biden can try to resurrect Obamas policy of easing sanctions, promoting economic and cultural ties and hoping that involvement with the broader world will, over time, encourage Cubas evolution into a less repressive, capitalist-oriented nation. Thats the position many older and politically active Cuban Americans in Florida adamantly oppose  a fact that has loomed large in Florida and presidential politics for decades. That was a bold move by Obama, and a welcome break from decades of despair, but it simply wasnt in place long enough to know whether the greater engagement was working.

For those reasons, a third option may be Bidens best option. U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez, the Cuban-American Democrat from New Jersey who chairs the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, seeks to achieve a policy balance between maximum pressure on the Cuban regime and maximum assistance to the Cuban people.

Menendez, for example, would maintain sanctions, while holding out hope that an opening on the part of the Cuban government would result in aid, increased trade and various forms of assistance. In defiance of a government that has cut access to the Internet this week, he would explore ways to expand access for the Cuban people. He would internationalize the effort to bring pressure to bear against the regime, enlisting the Organization of American States, the European Union and other international bodies.

The car guy in the White House would probably rather drive a classic Pontiac along El Malecon, Havanas beautiful boulevard beside the sea, than to recalibrate a Cuba policy in the midst of crisis. This weeks historic demonstrations, however, have forced his hand. The president has to act.
Last week, when Attorney General Ken Paxton arrested Hervis Rogers for allegedly casting an illegal ballot, he did so knowing that Rogers is considered an American hero.

Rogers made national headlines after waiting more than six hours to vote at a Houston polling place during the 2020 primary. Few can forget the images of the then 62-year-old, emerging tired but victorious from the polls just past 1 a.m., arms raised, wearing his I Voted sticker.

Now, this same voter who told the media last year, I wouldnt feel right if I didnt vote  its worth it, faces decades in prison after becoming the target of Paxtons political dragnet.

Lets be clear: Rogers, who was on parole from a decades-old conviction, wouldnt have been punished if he lived in Maine, Vermont or 21 other states that either grant automatic restoration of the right to vote upon release from prison or never strip voting rights at all.

However, Rogers voted in the Lone Star State, where those convicted of a felony cannot vote until completing their sentence, including probation and parole. His parole expired in June 2020, two months after the Texas primary. He also voted in November, 2018. Under Texas law, this simple misunderstanding could send him back to jail for 40 years.

While Rogers went to exceptional lengths to cast a ballot, his confusion around his states voting laws is far from unusual. Like many of the 6.1 million Americans disenfranchised by a racist criminal-legal system, Rogers wasnt made aware that he couldnt vote. In fact, he told his attorneys that he thought he was doing the right thing.

Rogers story is strikingly similar to that of another Black Texan, Crystal Mason. The states highest criminal court just agreed to review Masons illegal voting conviction after this Tarrant County mother and grandmother faced a five-year prison sentence for casting a provisional ballot that never counted in 2016. Masons mother, also confused by the law, had encouraged her daughter to vote while she was on supervised release.

Yes  some Southern states, like Florida, represent an encouraging national trend toward restoring the right to vote for justice-involved individuals at some point. But as an attorney fighting for people like Rogers and Mason across the South, I know that determining a voters eligibility involves a complex web of state election laws and criminal codes, leaving everyone from parole officers to poll workers to justice-involved people themselves unclear about the process of re-enfranchisement.

North Carolina provides another extreme example. The state is home to a Strict Liability Voting Law criminalizing voting for those ineligible due to a felony conviction, whether they intend to vote illegally or not. Originating in 1877, the law represents the last surviving vestige of post-Reconstruction measures meant to disenfranchise Black people.

Now, over 140 years later, North Carolina continues to criminalize the votes of justice-involved Black people, as the state did in high-profile cases like that of the Alamance 12. In Alamance County, a dozen formerly-incarcerated Black voters cast ballots in 2016 believing they were eligible. Im representing the voting rights groups advocating for them, ensuring that more people dont face felony charges again for the mistake of voting in their state.

One of the Alamance 12, Taranta Holman, who had never voted before 2016, and, like Crystal Mason, was encouraged by his mother, told the New York Times, Even when I get this cleared up, I still wont vote.  Thats too much of a risk. Others similarly charged told us they now discourage their kids from voting, setting in motion a chilling effect that disappears even more Black voters.

These extreme measures, reinforced repeatedly across the South, could not only return Black voters like Holman, Mason or Rogers to prison for years, they may also destroy faith in voting in their communities for generations to come.

Of Hervis Rogers heroic act of voting in 2020, Atlantic writer David Frum noted, Nobody should be asked to be this impressive.

We believe this should be true for any adult citizen who tries to vote, regardless of your past.

Brown is an Equal Justice Works Fellow sponsored by the Ottinger Foundation at the Southern Coalition for Social Justice.
Sometimes, the enemy of an enemy is an even greater enemy. For Iran, the humiliation of the U.S. in Afghanistan brings to the fore a fiercer foe. If the threat from the Taliban is not as existential to the Islamic Republic as the military presence of its most powerful adversary, the triumphant militia nonetheless poses a grave danger at an especially inconvenient moment.

Although Iran has stepped up its diplomatic outreach to the Taliban, the government of incoming President Ebrahim Raisi, facing growing discontent at home amid fading hopes of quick economic relief from the West, must now reckon with renewed perils in the east. The Taliban may have no interest in bringing down the Iranian regime, but its ascendancy in the Afghan civil war is sure to send fresh waves of refugees flooding across the 560-mile border between the countries, accompanied by a spike in drug and human trafficking, as well as increased terrorist activity.

It also endangers trade, which sanctions-shackled Iran can ill afford, and jeopardizes an ambitious railway project that would channel Afghan exports to Iranian ports, and then to the wider world.

So any sense of schadenfreude in Tehran over President Joe Bidens attempts to rationalize the American withdrawal from Afghanistan will have been stifled by the alarming news that the Taliban has taken control of Islam Qala, a key border post between the two countries. Reports from the area say Afghan security forces and customs officials fled to the Iranian side when the militia arrived.

Islam Qala is not only an important crossing point for bilateral trade, it is also the gateway to the Afghan city of Herat, the location of a large Iranian consulate. In 1998, militiamen allied with the Taliban slaughtered 11 Iranians there, including nine diplomats, bringing the two countries to within a whisker of war.

The Iranians and the Taliban managed to come to a modus vivendi, but relations remained hostile, and not only because of their competing sectarian world views: The mostly Sunni militiamen regard the Shiism of Iran as a heresy. When they ruled Kabul, the Taliban treated Afghanistans own Shiite minority with extreme brutality. They now claim to tolerate the sect, but terrorist groups that enjoy Taliban protection have stepped up attacks against Shiite targets.

The more practical-minded Taliban leaders have long recognized that Iran is a useful conduit to Western markets for Afghan opium, the militias main source of revenue. And its not their problem if some proportion of the drug falls off the back of the trucks to poison the Iranian population. As a direct consequence, Iran has one of the worlds highest rates of addiction.

That will almost certainly rise as the Taliban press home their advantage against Afghan government forces in the aftermath of the U.S. pullout. Needing more weapons and fighters, the militia will ramp up its opium exports. The effect will be felt in Iran long before it raises the anxieties of Western law enforcement officials.

Iran is also home to over 750,000 Afghan refugees, and perhaps 2 million more who are undocumented. The guards and officials of Islam Qala will undoubtedly be joined by legions of others as fighting between the Taliban and Afghan government forces intensifies in the months ahead.

And then theres terrorism. Although Iran has provided shelter and safe passage to top al-Qaida leaders, it is regarded with implacable hostility by many other extremist groups allied to the Taliban. With the Americans out of the way, these groups will look farther afield for fresh targets. This is already raising alarms in China and Russia, but Tehran, by way of proximity and animosity, is the most vulnerable.

The more so because the regime has little leverage with the Taliban. For Iran, Afghanistan represents the weakest link in the network of proxies and partners through which it wields influence in its neighborhood. There is no Afghan equivalent of the Lebanese Hezbollah, the Houthi rebels in Yemen or the Shiite militias in Iraq. Although the Iranians have recruited Afghan refugees to fight  mainly to serve as cannon-fodder  in places like Syria, Tehran has never deployed them in their homeland. A suggestion by Iranian Foreign Minister Jawad Zarif that some of these fighters could help the Afghan government has been brusquely turned down.

Zarifs offer cant have escaped the attention of the Taliban leadership, however. Not that they need any reminding of what they regard as Iranian perfidy  from Tehrans role in the creation of the anti-Taliban Northern Alliance in the late 1990s to its enthusiastic support for the U.S.-led invasion in 2001.

So, even as they smiled oleaginously at the Taliban leaders across the table in Tehran last week, the Iranians knew they were facing an old antagonist, newly reinvigorated. Those smiles will not last long.

Ghosh is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist. He writes on foreign affairs, with a special focus on the Middle East and Africa.
Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush did not play a role in the process that left Houston and Harris County without any federal aid for flood mitigation projects, according to a top disaster official with the General Land Office who defended the agencys scoring criteria during testimony to a congressional committee Thursday.

Bush, who is challenging incumbent Attorney General Ken Paxton in the upcoming Republican Party primary, has received bipartisan backlash over the GLOs allocation of $1 billion in flood project funds tied to Hurricane Harvey, none of which went to the 14 projects sought by the city or county. Bush since has announced that he will ask the U.S. Housing and Urban Development Department to direct $750 million to the county.

For the record, the Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush was by design recused from the scoring committee and the scoring process, Heather Lagrone, the GLOs deputy director of community development and revitalization, told members of a House Financial Services subcommittee. The commissioner was informed of the competition result only after the projects had been through eligibility review and scored in accordance with the federally approved action plan.

U.S. Rep. Al Green, a Houston Democrat who chairs the subcommittee, accused the GLO of using a rigged formula to distribute the relief money, defining the process as the hijacking of a federal mitigation appropriations process.

I think that the time has come for a course correction, Green said.

The $1 billion in relief is part of a $4.3 billion package Congress awarded to Texas in early 2018 to pay for projects aimed at tempering the effect of future storms. Because there were not enough funds to cover every project sought in the 49 eligible Texas counties, the GLO held a competition and developed scoring criteria to find the best applicants.

Lagrone defended the agencys scoring criteria, including a metric that measured the percentage of an applicant city or countys population that would be aided by a proposed project. Officials from Harris County, which has more than 20 watersheds and a population of more than 4.5 million, have argued they had little chance to score competitively under that category even when a proposed project would have served more than 500,000 residents.

One would think that when you have a higher population to serve, that that denominator would be a bigger number, Lagrone said. We thought by putting together a formula that allocated funds based on population served, we were accounting for the larger population areas.

Local officials also have criticized a metric that considered the per capita property value of the entire applicant, not just the area that would be affected by the project, meaning Houstons more expensive neighborhoods counted against projects proposed in low-income communities such as Sunnyside and Fifth Ward.

Lagrone said HUD officials made clear to the Land Office that they could not consider damage previously suffered by an applicant city or county in awarding the funds, meaning Harveys toll on Houston could not be used as a metric. Under questioning from U.S. Rep. Tom Emmer, a Minnesota Republican and ranking member of the subcommittee, Lagrone also cited the slow pace of the citys housing recovery program, which the GLO has said was a factor in the scores received by city flood control projects.

However, the federal rules that govern the use of the aid  which also apply to a number of other states  did not require the GLO to adopt the metrics that penalized urban areas, none of which were replicated in other states.

While coastal communities bore the brunt of Harvey, the GLO disproportionately sent the $1 billion in aid to inland counties that suffered less damage and, by the states own measure, are at a lower risk of natural disasters, a Houston Chronicle investigation found last month.

Houston Public Works Director Carol Haddock noted during the committee hearing that the GLO declined to award a penny in mitigation funds to Aransas and Nueces counties, where Harvey made landfall, nor to Jefferson County, which saw the heaviest rainfall during the storm, nor to Houston and Harris County, which saw the most damage from the storm.

The Texas General Land Offices process for allocating granted zero dollars to all of these localities, and it was only after bipartisan political pressure that the GLO retroactively requested $750 million for Harris County, Haddock said.

Mayor Sylvester Turner did not appear before the committee, though he submitted written testimony bashing the GLO.

This clown car must be stopped, Turner wrote. Rather than rectifying this nonsensical result, the GLO has doubled down and is actively misleading the public regarding their flawed process.

In January 2020, city officials sent the GLO a letter warning that the proposed metrics for scoring flood project applications would effectively penalize urban areas for having large populations. Haddock said the GLO stuck with those metrics even after input and warnings from multiple communities and their leaders.

Bush, in announcing the $750 million request for Harris County, blamed the situation on red tape requirements and complex regulations that he described as a hallmark of President Joe Bidens administration. He blamed the delay in distributing Harvey funds on the Housing and Urban Development Department, which did not publish rules regulating the use of the money until two years after Harvey  all of which happened under the administration of former President Donald Trump.

During the hearing Thursday, Green read part of Bushs statement aloud before asking Lagrone, Isnt it true that the Biden administration was not in place when you initially worked on your action plan?

That is correct, Lagrone responded.

In his written testimony, Turner questioned how the GLO arrived at the $750 million figure, none of which is going to the city.

Under what basis, guideline or criteria did the GLO decide to direct $750 million to Harris County? The GLO is transparently attempting to salvage their willful display of incompetence by randomly awarding an arbitrary figure to Harris County, while setting the city of Houston completely adrift.

jasper.scherer@chron.com
A rally organized by Texas faith leaders on Thursday drew more than 500 people to Austin to protest state Republicans proposed voting bills and commend House Democrats for decamping to Washington, D.C., to avoid a vote.

The fate of the bills is in limbo as the 57 caucus members say theyre committed to staying away as long as it takes, and Gov. Greg Abbott has vowed to call consecutive special sessions until they return.

The sweeping legislation touches on many areas of election law and would eliminate drive-thru and 24-hour voting; ban mailing of unsolicited mail ballot applications; expand the access of partisan poll watchers; create new ID requirements for mail ballots; and add new requirements for assistants of voters with disabilities, among other provisions.

Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and the bill authors have said the legislation is necessary to ensure election integrity.

As the hot summer sun beat down, the south grounds of the Texas Capitol were transformed into a preachers pulpit, as myriad well-known religious leaders and activists took to a microphone, surrounded by a tightly packed crowd. Their speeches punctuated by call-and-response affirmations common to Black churches: Thats all right! Yes sir! rally-goers would cry out.

Guest featured speaker the Rev. William J. Barber II, a North Carolina pastor who helped start the Moral Mondays national protest and the Martin Luther King Jr.-inspired Poor People's Campaign, referred to a Scripture: Isaiah 10.

Woe unto those who legislate evil and rob the poor of their rights and make women and children prey, Barber II said. There is a robbery going on in Texas and 40 other states and in the United States Congress.

Barber emphasized that the bills would not only affect Black Texans but all Texans, especially the poor. Rallygoers pointed to limitations on voting hours proposed in the bill that would make it harder for workers with night shifts to find a time to vote.

Now way back yonder, the first moves to keep people from voting  (were) targeted at white people, to keep them from uniting with the cause of abolition, he said. We got to look at this through the lens of race and class.  Because James Crow, Esquire, isnt just interested in robbing Black folk. James Crow, Esquire, wants to rob anybody and anybodys voice who will stand up for whats right.

Prior to speeches, attendees of the Prayer and Justice day marched around the Capitol, praying for Texas in the buildings rotunda and visiting lawmakers offices. One church alone, Friendship West Baptist Church in Dallas, reportedly sent five buses full of people to Austin.

Jane Hamilton, one of the organizers of the event and co-founder of the Barbara Jordan Leadership Institute, a nonpartisan nonprofit focused on fostering and recruiting Black women leaders, said the groups involved in planning the rally had three main messages they wanted to get across.

Like the escaped Texas Democrats, they want to see Congress pass the For the People Act, a sweeping federal elections bill, and the John Lewis Voting Rights Act, which would re-establish a practice known as pre-clearance that required some states to get approval from the U.S. Department of Justice to enact new voting rules.

The Supreme Court ended that practice, which targeted Texas and other Southern states with a history of discrimination, in a ruling in 2013.

Thirdly, they want to see an end to the filibuster in the U.S. Senate so the bills could pass with a simple majority vote.

We are really motivating the base and helping them amplify their voices, Hamilton said. Were all asking for the same thing, and we live in all different parts of Texas, but we are united as African Americans across this state.  We are joining our Texas Democratic Leadership and asking Congress to act today.

Stephanie L. Harris, who came equipped for the weather with portable mini-fans worn on a neck band, sat at the edge of the crowd in a folding chair and held a neon yellow sign. Shed written on it: 61 years old, and still going through this? #voting. Harris and a couple of friends drove in from Houston that morning.

When they (Texas House Democrats) left the second time, I thought, I have got to go to Austin to support this, she said. If you have a drivers license, youre driving. If you have a voter registration card, you should be able to vote.

The restrictions on hours particularly concerned her for elderly Texans like her parents. What if the only time shes able to take them to vote ends up being at a time when early voting hours are restricted by the bill, she worried .

The bill also prevents local officials from sending out mail ballot application forms if they are not requested; the method is extremely popular with the 65 and over population that is within the small group of Texans permitted to do so.

Karen Sterling drove in from Bastrop, about 30 miles southeast of Austin, early on Thursday morning to fight for what she called our civil rights movement of today. She held a handmade sign reading, If voting wasnt important, they wouldnt be trying to stop us!

This is an absolutely existential right that we cannot lose, she said. It took 100 years to get this right: blood, sweat, tears, people lost their lives, were beaten half to death, and now were clawing it back. For no reason.

Sterling and others said they also came to show Democrats who went to D.C. that they were thankful for their actions.

I wish the Democrats in D.C. had one quarter of the commitment, Sterling said.
Houston, MO (65483)

Today

Mixed clouds and sun with scattered thunderstorms. High 84F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Mainly clear skies. Low 62F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
Terrill Swift, who spent 15 years in prison after being coerced into confessing to a crime he did not commit, hugs Sen. Robert Peters (D-13th) as North Side Rep. Kelly Cassidy (D-14th) and Cook County State's Attorney Kim Foxx look on, July 15
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Meet Daniele Yandel, Member Relations & Commercial Partnerships at Merlin

In this edition of A2IMs Featured Executive column, were profiling the accomplishments of fan turned drummer turned label owner Daniele Yandel, the current Coordinator, Member Relations & Commercial Partnerships at Merlin.

Guest post from A2IM

Welcome to A2IMs Featured Executive column, where we highlight executives making moves and supporting the growth of the independent community. To submit yourself or a friend for a potential feature, fill out this form .

A classic tale of music fan turned drummer turned label owner, this weeks A2IM Featured Executive is Daniele Yandel, Coordinator, Member Relations & Commercial Partnerships at Merlin.

Read about her career below, and follow Dans label Sister Polygon Records on I nstagram and T witter . Check out Merlin on Linkedin and Twitter .

How did Daniele get her start in music? Tell us about the trajectory of her career since then.

Daniele first became involved in independent music as most of us do, as a fan. She went to college in NYC, and like many young people became enraptured with the Williamsburg music scene. She spent most nights at Death By Audio, Glasslands, Silent Barn, and Cake Shop seeing bands like The Beets, Real Estate, Woods, and Pop 1280. It wasnt long before Daniele osmosis-ed her way into learning drums and starting to play with friends in bands.

In 2012, Daniele got a fellowship to attend grad school in Washington, DC and moved there. It was in DC that her musical career really flourished (much to the dismay of her thesis advisor).

She met future bandmates pretty soon after moving and formed Priests . Shortly after that, they started their own record label, Sister Polygon Records. Initially to release their own music, but it wasnt long before they started putting out the music of all the new musicians they were meeting and friends they were making along the way.

Things just kind of snowballed from there, and it became clear that they couldnt run the label and the band both at the level they wanted to on their own. They started recruiting friends and industry professionals to help with both the band and the label and landed at Secretly Distribution for the label, and continued to grow the band and tour internationally.



At the end of 2019, Priests went on indefinite hiatus , and Daniele moved to NYC to finally live with her long time partner, and began working at Merlin in March 2020 (what timing!). Its been a crazy ride, and Daniele is grateful to have landed at a place that values the strange amalgamation of skills and knowledge she has accrued over the past decade and allows her to continue to put them to good use, and learn so many more additionally.

Any fun career highlights you can share?

Watching a video go viral in real time and working with one of Merlins members to maximize that momentum for the band and label. The band in question was The Linda Lindas and the song was  Racist, Sexist Boy  which truly sparked joy in Danieles punk heart. Having seen it all over IG in the morning with all her friends sharing it in their stories, by the afternoon Daniele was working with Epitaph to get the video, the song, and the band properly indexed and surfaced on YouTube. It was a real treat, and a cool, woah, I really work boots on the ground for the indie sector kinda moment.

What is Daniele up to outside of work?

Daniele still runs Sister Polygon Records alongside former bandmates in Priests. She also still writes (and hopes to get back to performing soon) music with her band Gauche. Danieles favorite thing about being back in NYC is getting to explore all the delicious food in Queens where she lives (and hopefully live music when it comes back).

Do you or someone you know fit the bill? Submit an executive here.

About A2IM:

A2IM is a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit trade organization headquartered in New York City that exists to support and strengthen the independent recorded music sector. Membership currently includes a broad coalition of more than 700 Independently-owned American music labels. A2IM represents these independently owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) interests in the marketplace, in the media, on Capitol Hill, and as part of the global music community. In doing so, it supports a key segment of Americas creative class that represents Americas diverse musical cultural heritage. Billboard Magazine identified the Independent music label sector as 37.32 percent of the music industrys U.S. recorded music sales market in 2016 based on copyright ownership, making Independent labels collectively the largest music industry sector.

Learn more about A2IM here, and contact our team at membership@a2im.org to join now

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UK leaders call for 50% of stream revenue to be paid to artists as part of a complete reset of the music industry

A bombshell study released by the UK Parliament calls for comprehensive reform not only to redress the balance for songwriters, performers, and composers but to tackle fundamental problems within the recorded music industry.

pitiful returns

Successful artists see pitiful returns from streaming while some performers are frozen out of payments altogether, according to the report.

The report calls for equitable remuneration for artists with the MPs calling for a complete reset of music streaming to fairly reward performers and creators.

That could see music played on platforms like Spotify treated as rental under UK law with 50% of the generated recorded music royalties paid directly to performers via a PRO.

The report also condemns the dominance of Universal Music, Sony Music, and Warner Music and calls for investigations and actions to protect artists and independent labels.

From the report:

The issues weve examined reflect much deeper and more fundamental problems within the structuring of the recorded music industry itself.

We have real concerns about the way the market is operating, with platforms like YouTube able to gain an unfair advantage over competitors and the independent music sector struggling to compete against the dominance of the major labels.

Weve heard of witnesses being afraid to speak out in case they lose favour with record labels or streaming services. Its time for the Government to order an investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority on the distortions and disparities weve uncovered.

Download a pdf of the full ECONOMICS OF MUSIC STREAMING study here.

Bruce Houghton is Founder and Editor of Hypebot and MusicThinkTank and serves as a Senior Advisor to Bandsintown which acquired both publications in 2019. He is Founder and President of the Skyline Artists Agency and an online professor for the Berklee College Of Music.

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North Adams Nomination Papers Due by July 23

NORTH ADAMS, Mass.  With seven business days left to file papers for city office, North Adams is so far on track to be assured its first woman mayor.

Josh Vallieres, the only man to so far pull papers, announced on his Facebook page on Tuesday that he was pivoting to School Committee.

The city clerk's office confirmed that they were aware of his decision but as of early Wednesday afternoon he had not yet formally withdrawn or picked up nomination papers for School Committee.

The posted on Facebook that he had made the "tough choice'' to suspend his mayoral campaign "after much consideration and consultation."

"I'm very grateful to everyone who has supported and contributed to this campaign," he wrote. "North Adams Public Schools will be well served in having a recent graduate sitting at the table. To everyone who has supported me so far, I want to take the chance to thank you all, and to assure you that this will be the start of real substantive change in North Adams."

The professed progressive candidate is a city native and is entering his senior year at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts in the fall. His departure leaves four women vying for the corner office: Lynette Ritland Bond, Rachel Branch, Aprilyn Carsno and Jennifer Macksey.

The will meet in September for a preliminary election to narrow the field to two.

Also withdrawing from nominations is longtime School Committee member Heather Boulger, who has also held the post of vice chairman for more than a decade.

Incumbent Emily Daunis and David Sookey have pulled papers for committee; with the addition of Vallieres, there are so far three candidates for four seats. Incumbents Ian Bergeron and James Holmes have not taken out papers so far. Both Daunis and Sookey ran unsuccessfully in the last election but Daunis was voted in by the committee and City Council a year ago to fill an unexpired term. While the other three terms are for four years, that term is up in 2023 but Daunis must win the seat in the election to complete it.

There is only one candidate for two four-year seats on the McCann School Committee. Gary Rivers, the school's former principal, has taken out papers for a fourth term. Longtime committee member Paul Gigliotti died last month but no has stepped forward to run in his place.

The number of candidates for City Council now stands at 18 for the nine at-large seats. Jason Laforest is the latest incumbent to pull papers, joining Lisa Blackmer, Keith Bona, Marie T. Harpin, Peter Oleskiewicz, Jessica Sweeney and Wayne Wilkinson, and the newest councilor, Bryan K. Sapienza, who was recently sworn in to fill a vacant seat.

The others are Jennifer Barbeau, Roger Eurbin, Raymond A. Moore, Barbara Ellen Murray, Michael I. Obasohan, Jesse Lee Egan Poirier, Ashley M. Shade, Heidi Shartrand-Newell and Ronald Sheldon and Joseph Smith.

The last day to submit nomination papers for certification of signatures is July 23. If there are more than 18 City Council candidates, those offices will be on the ballot with the mayor in the preliminary election to be held on Sept. 21.
The committee hope to have some finalists in place by the end of the month.

Pittsfield Deputy Superintendant Search Committee to Have Final Candidates Next Week

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  The Pittsfield Public School Deputy Superintendent search committee hopes to be able to recommend two to four finalist applicants to the school committee by July 22.

Superintendent Joseph Curtis told the school committee Wednesday that the 15 member committee will hold their first meeting Thursday to start the process of selecting finals from the applicant pool of 11.

"So the initial announcement in the survey called for ten to fourteen participants on the interview committee. We've actually had more," Curtis said. "But it was such a great representation of parents and staff that I reached out to all who applied to be on the committee."

The committee of fifteen members includes Pittsfield Public School teachers, parents, and Pittsfield High School Vice Principal Brendan Sheran. The United Educators of Pittsfield teachers union president Melissa Campbell is also on the panel.

Curtis did not announce the candidates names but said six of the applicants identify as female and four identify as male. Nine of the applicants have identified as white and two chose not to disclose.

At the search committees first meeting on June 15, they will participate in an orientation to bring awareness of bias in the hiring process and will review candidate applications to decide which will be interviewed based on an application review.

Curtis said that application reviews will be judged based on relevant experience, licensure, and the language on the cover letter.

The committee will also be tasked with offering ten to fourteen questions that will be asked during the first round of interviews. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Superintendent administrator evaluation rubric will be used as a guide in authorizing questions.

On Tuesday the 20 and Thursday the 22, the panel will conduct interviews, and Curtis anticipates that by Thursday, they will be able to suggest two or four candidates to the School Committee that have gone through the initial round of interviews.

The position was left vacant by Curtis who was the former Deputy Superintendent. He was hired as superintendent after former district leader Jason McCandless was chosen as superintendent of Mount Greylock Regional School District in August of 2020.

Curtis appointed Henry Duval in November of 2020 as the Interim Deputy superintendent. Duval served as the previous principal of Pittsfield High School and was seen as a seamless and highly qualified candidate.

In early June, the School Committee was tasked with reviewing the Deputy Superintendent job description where edits were proposed and finalized. The Job description was posted on June 7 and on June 29, Curtis sent out a survey to the entire educational community in English and Spanish soliciting members of a search committee.

Committee member William Cameron suggested scheduling a separate School Committee meeting for interviewing and selecting finalists.

Mayor Linda Tyer seconded Camerons sentiment.

"I just want to say that I agree with Dr. Cameron about having a separate meeting for interviewing the finalists," she said. "Trying to fit it into a regular school committee meeting is not conducive to really good decision making, and our work is important. So I do think having a separate meeting for a round of interviews is really critical to this process overall."

Curtis said that he wanted to act promptly on the recommendations for the courtesy of the applicants but agreed to schedule an additional meeting. He said they will hopefully have a date for the special meeting by the end of the week.
Tanglewood In The City Returns

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  For the third year, Pittsfield Common is hosting a free screening of a Tanglewood performance on July 17, 2021 at 7 p.m.

The video screening of an archived Boston Symphony Orchestra performance will feature composers George Gershwins Piano Concerto, Duke Ellingtons "Harlem," Aaron Copland's "A Lincoln Portrait" narrated by actor John Douglas Thompson, and John Harbisons "Foxtrot for Orchestra" from his opera, "Remembering Gatsby."

Pre-concert activities, beginning at 6 p.m., will include live performances by Kids 4 Harmony and the Eagles Community Band. There will also be a "Best Picnic" contest.

The Pittsfield Common is located at 101 First Street with several public parking lots in close proximity. The rain date for the event is July 18 at 5 p.m.

Tanglewood in the City at the Pittsfield Common is the result of a collaborative partnership between Mill Town and the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
Papa Joes also has a recently renovated dining room, which hosts buffets for lunch and dinner and full-service dining. PreviousNext

Papa Joe's Ristorante To Celebrate 35 Years In Business

Papa Joes Ristorante will be celebrating 35 years in business.

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  "Were a lot more than just pizzas and subs."



Thats how Paul Colombari, owner of Papa Joes Ristorante on Newell Street, wants customers to view his restaurant.An Italian restaurant with relatively inexpensive and an extensive menu, Papa Joes has been serving Pittsfield and Berkshire County residents since October of 1986.

Colombari opened the restaurant with his wife Sherry, bringing in most of his own restaurant equipment and cooking most of the food himself, at least in the early days.

"I always knew that this was what I wanted to do," Colombari told iBerkshires.

This gave him the inspiration to open the restaurant 34 years ago.

"For startup money, my father used his house" as collateral," said Colombari. "That was motivation not to fail."

Hes stayed true to this original motivation. Despite the shutdowns imposed by state and local governments due to COVID-19, Papa Joes managed to remain open without laying off any employees.

Colombari attributes this success to his commitment to using fresh ingredients and making as many things as possible from scratch. For instance, the Italian bread and sub rolls that Colombari sells are homemade, and he bakes them fresh every morning.

"Whatever I can do homemade, I try to do," he said.

Another draw for Papa Joes is its relatively low prices. This is by design.

"My idea when I first got in the business was, you know, be affordable, and put out good food, and its what my father always wanted me to do," he said.

Papa Joes also has a diverse menu, encompassing cuisine spanning the Italian peninsula.

"My fathers family came from Sicily," Colombari explained. "My mothers family came from northern Italy. So there [were] two different types of cuisine."

This explains why Colombari sells white pizzas, a staple of Sicilian cuisine, but also traditional pizzas with red sauce.

Moreover, Papa Joes has a hand-tossed thin crust, a Sicilian thick crust (the pies come in a square shape), and even a Chicago deep dish. Colombari attributes this to a pizza he had while in Chicago, which he decided to make back home. He also recently added a gluten-free cauliflower crust, which has become very popular as of late.

In addition to pizza, subs, and pasta dishes, Papa Joes serves burgers, heaping salads, and even a prime rib dinner. Colombari also offers family meals that serve four starting at $19.99, which consist of your choice of pasta, salad, and breadsticks. Papa Joes also serves specialty family meals, including baked ziti, chicken parmesan, and eggplant parmesan, to name a few.

These dishes, along with all the other menu items, are available for both takeout and delivery. Papa Joes also has a recently renovated dining room, which hosts buffets for lunch and dinner and full-service dining. Colombari expects to open the buffet again soon, which he closed due to COVID.

The passion that Colombari has for his restaurant is evident from the way he describes the food he makes. He arrives early in the morning to roll out the bread from the night before, and even has his entire family come to the restaurant to make thousands of Italian cookies from scratch, which he sells during the holiday season. Most of the recipes were handed down from

generations of Italians on both his mothers and fathers side.

Colombari had extensive experience running pizza shops in Pittsfield, but also worked in fine dining in Washington, D.C. While he was down there, though, he said he "always was pulled to come back home" to Pittsfield.

And come back he did. Papa Joes will soon celebrate its 35th anniversary, all that time serving homemade Italian cuisine at a low cost. Stop by for a pasta dinner, a gigantic salad fit for two, and a selection of homemade cannoli, as well as their signature cannoli pie. This latter dish comes in three varieties: cookies and cream, raspberry, and traditional cannoli-style chocolate chipeach of which is homemade.

"Everything here is fresh and quality food," he said.
SVMC ExpressCare Welcomes Lisa Patorti

BENNINGTON, Vt.  Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC) welcomed Family Nurse Practitioner Lisa Patorti to SVMC ExpressCare and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Putnam Physicians.

Patorti earned her masters degree in nursing from Purdue University Global. She received her bachelor's in nursing from Kaplan University. In addition, she attended Vermont Technical College in Bennington for her registered nurse and licensed practical nurse credentials.

Patorti has worked as a triage nurse for the Community Health Centers of the Rutland Region 2016  2019 and as an office RN for Advanced Ankle & Foot 2015  2016. Since 2001, she and her family have operated four residential care homes through Our House Residential Care Homes in Rutland.

ExpressCare is newly relocated to 120 Hospital Drive. It shares space with the Respiratory Evaluation Center, which features negative-pressure air exchange throughout. The new facility also has a dedicated parking area, a larger waiting area, larger and more exam rooms. As always, the practice offers X-ray and blood draw.

Open 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. seven days a weekincluding holidays, except Thanksgiving and ChristmasExpressCare is a convenient walk-in clinic located at 120 Hospital Drive in Bennington. No appointment is necessary. ExpressCare offers care for minor illnesses and injuries to patients of all ages. COVID-19 vaccinations are available for everyone over the age of 12. For more information, call 802-440-4077.
Lee Bank Names New VP to Expand Financial Wellness Services

LEE, Mass.  Lee Bank has named a new financial wellness officer who will broaden the bank's financial planning and money management services to area residents with a broad range of incomes and needs.

Matthew R. Freitag, a certified financial planner and Cheshire native, has been named vice president, financial wellness. He works with Lee Bank customers to assist them in achieving better financial stability and devising personalized financial plans, regardless of income. This service is offered at no cost to customers of Lee Bank.

"The pandemic has shown us just how fragile some people's financial circumstances are," said Chuck Leach, president of Lee Bank. "We want to clear up any misperception that financial planning services are only for the wealthy. We aim to be an inclusive financial resource to help strengthen all of our customers' circumstances, which in turn strengthens our community."

Financial planning encompasses an array of money matters: budgeting, debt management, savings, tax questions, college planning, social security strategies, investment and retirement planning.

"As we come out of Covid, many of our customers are reckoning with their financial futures after pandemic-related money challenges," said Freitag. "For many people, their bank is already a trusted financial partner, and we can build on this foundation. Even for those who weathered Covid-19's impact, it may be time for some financial evaluation and adjustment. This is a truly unique offering for a community bank but also a natural extension of Lee Bank's longstanding approach to putting clients and customers first."

Freitag will be based at Marble House in Lee but is available to meet with customers at any Lee Bank branch, in Great Barrington, Stockbridge, Lee, Lenox and Pittsfield, by appointment.

In addition to his work with Lee Bank, he will also collaborate with October Mountain Financial Services, providing wealth portfolio management and financial planning to Lee Bank customers with substantial assets. Lee Bank and October Mountain Financial Services have a longstanding strategic alliance with shared clients.

Most recently a senior client advisor at RINET Company LLC in Boston, Freitag is a graduate of Bentley University, where he earned a master's in personal financial planning. He earned his bachelor's degree in finance, with a focus in ethics and social responsibility, also from Bentley, where he graduated cum laude. He now resides in Lenox
Thailand migrant workers sign contracts they dont understand, undercutting efforts to stop abuses

by Vijitra Duangdee

July 15,2021 | Source: VOA

Migrant workers from Cambodia and Myanmar are being asked to sign contracts they cannot read in order to work in Thailands fishing fleet, a new study has found, undercutting efforts to expunge abuses from a sector worth billions of dollars to the Southeast Asian country.



Thailand is one of the worlds largest fish and seafood producers, boasting global brands that include John West and Chicken of the Sea.



Authorities have been scrambling for several years to clean up an industry riddled with abuses, though, after grim revelations of human trafficking of Thais and migrant workers, forced work, defaults on payments, beatings and even murders on fishing boats.



All of this contributed to the U.S State Department dropping Thailand onto the worst possible ranking  Tier 3  of its annual Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report in 2015, as well as threats by the European Union to suspend seafood imports for alleged illegal and overfishing.



However, Thai government efforts to register all workers with contracts, identity cards and e-payments to ensure salaries are paid rather than deferred  alongside wider prosecution of human traffickers  have helped the kingdom move into Tier 2.



Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-O-Cha has said he hopes his country will be elevated to the top tier -- compliant with U.S. standards -- after an extensive campaign to monitor the fishing sector, including spot inspections and electronic tags to track unscrupulous boat owners.



The latest TIP report is expected to be published in the coming weeks; but a survey by the ITF-Fishers Rights Network, shows that basic legal protections for workers are still not being met.





Of 520 fishers surveyed at Thai ports between March-June 2021, the FRN said just a tiny fraction had even had their contracts translated into their native languages.



A shocking 89 percent of fishers had not had their contract translated or explained to them in a language they could understand, said Jon Hartough, ITF-FRN Thailand Project Lead.



Quite often fishers are recruited in rural areas of Myanmar and Cambodia ... its a verbal contract when they are told what the terms and conditions will be. But when they sign the document, its unclear what the conditions are, they are signing, he added.



This is important ... because of how this manifests in working conditions.



Vulnerable fishers are often low-skilled and desperate for income  a condition worsened by the coronavirus pandemic, as well as Myanmars economic collapse following a February 1 coup.



Burmese and Khmer fishers still face serious issues such as wage theft, lack of adequate food or clean drinking water on board, debt bondage, document retention and other labor abuses, according to Ye Thwe, FRN president and former fisherman.



The Thai government commitments are as thin as the paper theyre written on. Labor violations are still rampant, and contracts are not being properly followed, he said, adding fishers often report late or incomplete payments, dangerous conditions at sea and deliberately misleading contracts - where they exist at all.



The Department of Fisheries says it has translated government guidelines into fishers languages, so they know their rights under tightened Thai laws.



The DOF has prepared a manual for commercial fishermen ... in an easy-to-understand language and distributed it to fishermen, to build knowledge and understanding of legal guidelines, Mesak Pakdeekong, director general of the Department of Fisheries, told reporters in early June.



Meanwhile, authorities have released a PROTECT-U multilingual app to help victims of trafficking seek urgent help safely.



While not named in the FRN study, big seafood companies including Thai Union, which owns Chicken of the Sea, say they have made major strides to clean up their supply chains and adhere strictly to government rules.



But labor rights groups say the recruitment system is prone to abuses.



Brokers travel across poor rural areas of Southeast Asia persuading desperate workers to go to sea for long periods of time, often far from contact with authorities or their families.



As profit margins are squeezed in overfished seas, experts say boat owners or unscrupulous captains who marshal the workers hold out on agreed salaries or instead promise a percentage of the catch as payment that never materializes.



Yet the supply of labor has increased since the pandemic with whole communities left out of work for months on end.



One Thai fisherman from the landlocked northeastern farming region of Isaan, who has been cheated of his wages before but is preparing to go back out to sea, said the poorest have few options as the pandemic crushes their incomes.



The guys from my village still go out to sea, the fisher told VOA news, requesting anonymity. We know the risks, but were willing to gamble our lives. Staying home can be as bad; we can go hungry.

Theme(s): Communities and Organisations.
Three Pakistani fishermen return from Indian jails

July 15,2021 | Source: Dawn

Three Pakistani fishermen languishing in Indian jails since December 2018 reached Karachi in the early hours of Wednesday morning from Lahore by Shalimar Express.



The fishermen  Hasan Ramzan, Juman Ramzan and Wattoo Mohammed  all of whom originally hail from Keti Bandar had reached Lahore via the Wagah border on June 28 but they had been put into quarantine for two weeks as per Covid-19 standard operating procedures.



Touching scenes with tears of joy were also witnessed as they embraced their family members who had come to receive them at the Cantonment Railway Station.



They were welcomed with garlands and presented with cash by officials of the Fishermen Cooperative Society.



The fishermen said that they were busy catching fish in Pakistan waters on that fateful day in December 2018 when they were approached by an Indian Navy boat that had quietly crossed over to the Pakistani side and which abducted them and took them to India where they were jailed for over two-and-a-half years.



They said they were kept hungry for days in Indian jails.



The Indian jail authorities also used to beat them.



FCS manager Shaukat Hussain told the media present on the occasion that the fishermen of both Pakistan and India belonged to a downtrodden group of society. They were not terrorists or spies as they were suspected to be by the officials who arrested them at sea.

 2021, Dawn

Theme(s): Communities and Organisations.
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Tharindu Jayawardhana is one of Sri Lankas most outstanding and promising young journalists. His writings and MediaLK, the news website he founded in 2019, are noted for highlighting some of the most critical injustices and rights violations faced by numerous ethnic minorities in the country, such as Tamils and Muslims. But concerningly, Sri Lankas Ministry of Mass Media is currently refusing the registration of MediaLK, due to lack of clearance from the Ministry of Defense and a formal complaint lodged with the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka is pending.

The complaints are not only a concern for a respected and brave young journalist known for uncovering important stories, but also in terms of the greater implications for freedom of expression in Sri Lanka when journalists can be intimidated and threatened (as Tharindu has) for reporting in the public interest.

Tharindu started his journalistic career at popular daily newspaper Lankadeepa, where he wrote detailed features on the environment, corruption and human rights. Together with another colleague, he also wrote controversial exposes in the column Investigating the Truth. In his journalism, he is well known for his extensive use of the Right to Information (RTI) and won a special award for utilizing the RTI Act for public objectives and the wellbeing of society at an event celebrating international RTI day organized by the Ministry of Mass Media and earned an award for best feature using RTI and Scoop of the Year at Editors Guild of Sri Lanka awards. A published book author, Tharindu has also documented the community struggle for water in Rathupaswela and the killing of three people during a protest in 2013.

As a founding member, former secretary and presently an executive committee member of the Young Journalists Association (YJA), Tharindu has been at the forefront of raising issues related to freedom of expression, arbitrary detention, torture and right to fair trial - regularly engaging with statutory institutions such as the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka, including lodging public interest complaints on matters where police stand accused of human rights violations.

Triggers to the recent threats

Tharindu began facing the first of a series of intimidations following his reporting on the Presidential Commission of Inquiry probing the Easter Sunday bombings, after the inquiry found that a senior deputy inspector general of police (SDIG) Deshanbandu Tennakoon had not fulfilled his duties during the attack and was recommending a disciplinary inquiry.

On June 29, MediaLK published its report that a Special Police Investigative Division appointed to investigate police negligence in relation to the bombings had recommended to present charge sheets against several senior police officers, including Tennakoon. The minister in charge of police confirmed at a press conference that the Public Services Commission had forwarded the charge sheets. The MediaLK report also mentioned that Tennakoon was among those that the Sri Lankan Cabinet had approved for a special salary increase - despite disciplinary steps being recommended against him by the Presidential Commission and the Special Police Investigation Division. The report was based on responses to questions posed by Tharindu at a press conferences on June 18 and 29.

It is thought that some of Tharindus earlier reporting that month might have been the catalyst for threats that were to follow. Just a few weeks earlier, on June 9, Tharindu posted photos on Facebook of a gathering, which included the Prime Minister, at a funeral for a family member of a prominent Buddhist monk at a time when Covid-19-related restrictions on travelling and gatherings were in place. As this had happened in the Western province headed by SDIG Tennakoon, the journalist tagged the SDIGs Facebook page and posed a series of questions. While the SDIG did not respond to the questions on the platform, he asked Tharindu to call him, providing a mobile number. But, despite repeated attempts to connect with the SDIG, he got no answer.

Recent threats

On July 1, MediaLK published another investigative report about a senior police officer who had retired after career of 35 years. The officer had been in detention for about ten months and had been released on bail few days before. The arrest and detention had led to widespread condemnation and expressions of concern, including by the Appeal Court, the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka and the European Parliament. The arrest was made by the Colombo Crime Division (CCD) of the police, overseen by SDIG Tennakoon.

Tharindu shared the report on Facebook the same day and within about half an hour, a tirade of comments from SDIG Tennakoon started on the post. Most of the SDIGs comments accused Tharindu of writing and publishing false news. The journalist, on several occasions, responded to the comments, requesting information about any falsehoods and offered corrections where needed. Other journalists and lawyers also requested the SDIG to provide information about any falsehoods written. No specific instances were pointed out.

Among the threats were that Tharindu would be punished by natural justice. In another, the SDIG referred to Prabakaran (the former leader of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam  LTTE) and criminals.

This is a serious threat, considering that Prabakaran was killed by the Sri Lankan Army at the end of the war and two alleged criminals were killed in police custody in May this year. At least ten other people are reported to have been killed in police custody in the last 12 months.

After the incident, Tharindu wrote a letter to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), requesting to prevent any harm from coming to him, his family or those close to him and to ensure their security. He also requested the IGP guarantee his freedom to carry out his professional work as a journalist and to conduct an inquiry about the threats made in the online comments. The Media Organizations Collective (six media freedom organizations) has also written to the IGP demanding for guarantees for Tharindus safety and to conduct a formal inquiry. Opposition political parties, including the Opposition Leader also expressed concern through public statements and interventions in parliament.

Fears of self-censorship

It is important to note that the SDIG is the second most senior position in the police force. As such, an SDIG publicly making threatening remarks against a respected, award-winning and well-known independent journalist and getting away with it is likely have chilling effect on many lesser-known journalists.

If SDIG Tennakoon is not held accountable, it will only encourage more predators of free expression. For other journalists, it could lead to more self-censorship. The journalistic community and all those whose right to information is at stake must rally in solidarity with Tharindu and others who face reprisals for exercising the right to free expression.

Ruki Fernando is a Sri Lankan human rights activist and writer. He is a member of the Executive Committee of the Free Media Movement (FMM). His writings are available at www.rukiiiii.wordpress.com.
Dutch journalist Peter R. de Vries has died on 15 July at the age of 64, days after being shot five times in the street in Amsterdam in a targeted shooting. The International and European Federations of Journalists (IFJ/EFJ) condemned the murder as another tragic blow to press freedom in Europe.

On 6 July, Peter R. de Vries was a guest on daily television programme RTL Boulevard. After leaving the building, he was shot several times at close range, including in the head, in a side street near the studio. Amsterdams mayor Femke Halsema told a press conference that the investigative journalist was fighting for his life. The police arrested three suspects. One was later released.

Peter R. de Vries (64) is a well-known Dutch investigative journalist who covered high-profile criminal investigations. He worked for De Telegraaf, Panorama magazine, Algemeen Dagblad and ran his own crime programme on television. He won an international Emmy Award in 2008 for his work investigating the 2006 disappearance of teenager Natalee Holloway in Aruba.

On its web site RTL boulevard shared a message on behalf of Peter's family and his partner: "Peter fought to the end, but was unable to win the battle. He is surrounded by those who love him and has passed away. Peter has lived his belief: 'On bended knee is no way to be free'. We are immensely proud of him and at the same time inconsolable."

The Dutch Association of Journalists' General Secretary Thomas Bruning said: "Peter R. de Vries was an iconic crime reporter and an unresting fighter for justice. An example for many. His death is unreal, and the anger at this brutal attack is great.

IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger said: "Today our thoughts are with Peter's family and friends. The loss of Peter is devastating for press freedom in Europe. He is the 3rd journalist killed this year on the continent. The Dutch government must send a clear message that freedom of the press is not negotiable and that there should be no impunity for the killing of journalists".
A workshop on the professional and economic rights of journalists in online media was organised by the IFJ in collaboration with its affiliate, the Yemeni Journalists' Syndicate (YJS) on 13 July 2021 in Ta'izz.

Among the topics discussed were the legal, professional and financial conditions for online journalism, employment contracts, news content and tools that facilitate better reporting while respecting professional and ethical rules.

The discussions led to the adoption of a set of recommendations to strengthen the unionisation of journalists in the sector:

Campaigning for the adoption of legislation on electronic media and a code of conduct to regulate journalistic work;

Providing training for electronic media workers, especially given the negative influence of years of war on broadcast content;

Increased support for professional journalists to strengthen their independence from official or partisan media;

Relaunching the local branch of YJS in Ta'izz;

Establishment of an interactive and neutral platform for publishing unbiased journalistic content;

Increased IFJ support for journalists working in conflict areas in Yemen, especially those directly affected by the war

The YJS reiterated the view that the increasing presence of digital media requires an improvement in broadcast content by guaranteeing workers' rights and strengthening their professional skills and capacities.

The workshop was funded by Union to Union.

As part of the IFJ's safety programme in the Middle East, the federation also organised two training sessions on the safety of Yemeni journalists on 5 and 6 July in Aden and on 11 and 12 July in Ta'izz. These meetings, facilitated by the IFJ Arab and Middle East Journalist Safety Trainers Network, were attended by 32 journalists.
A new data center company is ready to power up businesses as Beeinfotech PH (Bee Information Technology PH Inc.) recently opened its first data center in the country. Beeinfotech PHs multi-million-peso data center is the Philippines largest telco-neutral data center yet, tackling the markets need for a telco-grade and tailored data center services provider.

According to a report from Grand View Research, the global data center colocation industry is expected to have a 13.3% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2021 to 2028, with the Asia-Pacific region leading. The Philippines, in particular, is expected to increase its rack space market to 400,000 sq. ft. by 2024. Among the growth factors cited are the increased complexity of building and maintaining ones own data center facility and the benefit of scaling up infrastructure to accommodate larger data volumes, which increased further during the pandemic.

Beeinfotech PHs objective is to propel the digital transformation of businesses by delivering resilient and flexible IT solutions. Its arrival comes at a pivotal time when companies are focused on meeting the increased digital demand brought by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is accelerating the digitalization of government agencies and pushing for the same in the private sector to streamline processes and improve delivery of services.

The ongoing pandemic has pushed companies and even the government to bolster their digital infrastructure and integrate more digital-based solutions to protect employees and better serve customers and the citizens. However, this endeavor can be difficult in the face of the economic impact of the pandemic and the increasing complexity in managing IT infrastructure. Our data center facility assists businesses in their digital transformation efforts by delivering critical IT management expertise and solutions that, once outsourced, can propel businesses further in their growth and development even in these difficult times, said Reynaldo Huergas, Beeinfotech PH President and CEO.

Philippines'largest telco-neutral data center yet

Located in Pasig City, the Beeinfotech PH colocation facility covers an impressive 19,000-square meter space spread across three floors of more than 6,000 square meters each. This gives Beeinfotech PH enough room to reach up to a 45U rack height and hold more than 3,000 racks, which is currently the largest number of racks within a single data center in the country. With such space to host servers and other mission-critical resources, businesses can offload their entire IT infrastructure management responsibilities to Beeinfotech PH and focus on achieving their goals.

Bolstering connectivity and security

As a telco-neutral data center, Beeinfotech PHs facility allows clients to choose among multiple connections from different telecommunications providers. This setup allows clients to select the connection that best suits their interests and needs. Additionally, telco-neutrality adds redundancy to a companys connection. For example, if one network goes offline, Beeinfotech PH can simply transfer the client to another connection to maintain online accessibility.

The data center also provides bespoke colocation solutions which can reduce a companys IT costs. Its floors follow the Open Design and Elastic Floor concepts so that Beeinfotech PH can meet certain clients specifications such as special enclosures, zoning, and caging. Both designs make it easier to scale resources up or down, thereby providing a fully-OpEx model where clients only pay for the resources they need and use.

In addition, the Beeinfotech PH data center houses three dedicated sites that companies can utilize against the effects of the pandemic and other challenges in the future. Its Security Operations Center (SOC) gives companies protection against cybercrime as it detects, analyzes, and immediately responds to incoming threats such as DDoS attacks and phishing. Meanwhile, its Network Operations Center (NOC) monitors the entire network and maintains uptime at all times. Lastly, the Disaster Recovery Site is a specialized facility that organizations can use to recover and restore their infrastructure in case of disasters. By offering the three salient features, Beeinfotech PH delivers the resiliency that companies need to adapt and recover easily.

Aside from enabling companies, Beeinfotech PHs objective is to become a gateway for opportunities going to and from Asia. Beeinfotech PH will leverage its footprint across the region and serve as the new gateway hub both for international companies seeking to enter the lucrative markets in the region and for Asian companies seeking global expansion.

Interested companies wishing to digitally transform can reach Beeinfotech PH by visiting beeinfotech.ph or contacting directly on Facebook at fb.com/BeeinfotechPH.
ASUS and Republic of Gamers Philippines (ROG) are welcoming the start of the new school year with the ASUS/ROG COOL FOR SCHOOL PROMO! From July 15 to August 31, 2021, students and parents who avail of participating laptops, desktops, smartphones may enjoy up to Php18,000+ worth of EXCLUSIVE BUNDLES, ranging from the Nespresso Mini Essenza, TUF Gaming Monitor, TUF Gaming Router, Philips Hue Ambiance Starter Kits, to the very limited ROG Slash Collection. Interested buyers can also enjoy up to Php2,000-off of participating laptops, desktops, and gaming backpacks.

Get ready for up to Php18,000+ worth of EXCLUSIVE bundles and up to Php2,000 worth of discounts for the best Learn From Home setup yet!

This massive promotion is in line with the companys push for education and to help equip students with the right technology for their learning needs.

Have an incredible school year with ASUS Notebooks and Zenfones

All Zenbook and Vivobook laptops, as well as the recently launched ASUS Zenfone 8 and Zenfone 8 Flip phones, will be part of the ASUS/ROG COOL FOR SCHOOL promo with bundles such as the Nespresso Coffee Machines, the Aviche M5 Wearable Air Purifiers, and JBL Go 3 Bluetooth Speakers.

Citizens, get ready for another epic school year with ROG

Cutting-edge ROG products, including the first-ever convertible gaming laptop, the ROG Flow X13 will be joining the fun together with the award-winning Zephyrus G14 and G15 and the esports-ready ROG Strix laptops. Buyers are sure to enjoy awesome bundle items that range from Google Nest products, Chromecast 4K with Google TV, Philips Hue Ambiance series, Xbox Controllers, TUF AX3000 Wifi Router, and the most sought-after exclusive ROG Slash Collection.

The ROG Phone 5 Classic edition will be participating too, with a free ROG Cetra II Core Headset.

Gear-up for activity with the ASUS and ROG desktops

Both ASUS and ROG will be including their desktop products in the promotion. ROG desktops such as the ROG Strix G35DX, Strix GD30CI, Strix GL12CM, Strix GL10CS, Strix G15DH, and TUF Gaming FX10CP can enjoy a high refresh rate gaming with its bundled ASUS TUF Gaming VG249Q1A that is worth Php12,000+.

ASUS desktops, including the ASUS S3401SFF and S500SA, will be available with a Php1,000 discount. These two desktops are perfect for users with limited desk space.

The ASUS/ROG COOL FOR SCHOOL PROMO is a special program that will run from July 15 to August 31, 2021.

For the complete mechanics and list of participating products and stores, check out bit.ly/ASUSROGCoolForSchool2021.
Tina Hamilton, an Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) member in Philadelphia, is founder and CEO of myHR Partner, a human resources outsourcing firm that manages HR for small and medium-size businesses in 26 states. As leaders navigate the unexpected hiring challenges organizations face in finding the right talent, we asked Hamilton what role employee retention plays. Here's what she shared.

The headlines tell the tale of the 2021 labor market: Companies are desperate to attract qualified staff members, especially hourly workers.

CNN reported in May that "though US manufacturing activity surged to a 37-year high in March, the industry has more than half a million job openings. Factories are struggling to find skilled workers for specialized roles such as welders and machinists. Manufacturers are even having trouble hiring entry-level positions that do not require expertise."

It's a nationwide issue. I am working from Anchorage, Alaska, for two months this summer. I recently dined in a restaurant that chose to cut back its menu items to simplify processes because it can't find enough workers to staff its kitchen. An influx of tourists (like me) is compounding the challenge in travel destinations.

In addition to tweaking business operations, many entrepreneurs are putting significant levels of money and effort into attracting and hiring the employees they need. Even owners of small companies are spending thousands of dollars on recruiting. Sign-on bonuses are back--a trend we haven't seen in at least a decade.

Nonetheless, business owners can't dedicate money and energy to recruiting at the expense of employee retention. Employee retention is even more crucial during times when quality applicants are scarce.

Here are six reasons why employee retention should be a business's top priority now--even above recruiting.

1. Oodles of options.

Desperate times mean recruiters are dangling amazing job opportunities in front of your top people. Companies are increasing pay, incentives, benefits--you name it--to attract new talent. Employees who are not being (check all or one of the following) paid well, treated well, appreciated, trained, listened to, encouraged to grow, smiled at, and recognized as valuable are at high risk of moving to a job with many opportunities available.

2. Mind the gap.

Existing employees can temporarily fill some of the gaps during your worker shortage. Loyal, satisfied employees are more likely to take on extra hours or overtime. Good employees will pitch in to help the team succeed. That's especially the case if they know that you're actively working to fill open positions, that the extra work is temporary, and how much they are appreciated.

3. Institutional knowledge.

Retaining staff saves significantly on your company's overhead expenses. Hiring and training costs aren't the only expenditures when you replace a team member. Existing employees have institutional knowledge and experience that cannot be replaced quickly or easily; it may take months or even years.

4. Consistency with clients.

Retaining employees creates consistency with customers or clients. The relationships your employees develop with customers can be critical if you need to adjust business practices in response to labor shortages. In times of uncertainty, people look to those they know and trust.

5. Workplace satisfaction.

Retention creates a happier workplace. When employees leave, it can create a sense of instability in your company, making others question their own desire to stay.

6. Identify superstars.

Times of transition can bring out the best in people. Potential leaders in your company could be stepping up and proving their value. Your ability to put them on a growth path depends on whether you can retain your future superstars.

As we emerge from the pandemic, the workforce is naturally in a state of transition. That brings opportunities and challenges for us all.

As during any transition, the key is to act both intentionally and strategically. The business world will most likely even out in the next 12 months. Where do you want your company to be when it's back in balance?

EXPLORE MORE Female Founders COMPANIES
Eligible parents are slated to receive their monthly child tax credit payments starting Thursday. How you use the money could affect your business or help you start one.

The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 expanded the tax credit to $3,600 per child under the age of 6, and to $3,000 for those aged 6 to 17. It's in effect just for 2021, though President Joe Biden has advocated for making it permanent.

Half of the funds will be sent to parents in installments through December. For example, a parent with one child under six would receive $300 per month. Parents can claim the rest upon filing taxes for 2021--unless they opt out so they can receive all of the money when they file.

Madilynn A. Beck, founder and CEO of Palm Springs, California-based Fountful--an app that provides "lifestyle services" like manicures or DJ appearances on demand--is considering that approach. Beck says that if she meets her business goals this year, Fountful could generate enough revenue to significantly increase her tax burden come next April. "I'm keeping my head above water now," she says. "What happens if I am fully underwater then and don't have a life vest?"

The child tax credit will affect people at a "wide range" of income levels, says Daniel Milan, managing partner at Cornerstone Financial Services based in Southfield, Michigan. For aspiring entrepreneurs, it might offset child care costs for a few months while they work on getting a business off the ground. For others, the money could just help alleviate daily financial stress.

That's the case for Ruby Taylor, CEO and founder of Baltimore-based Financial Joy School, which provides financial literacy education and produces a card game that teaches the subject to young people. In April 2021, she and her wife's financial situation changed as a result of the pandemic but they still had to cover things like a new roof and fence for their house. Their savings account dwindled, and Taylor's anxiety spiked, resulting in her going on blood pressure and anxiety medication. The extra $500 the mother of two expects to receive means the couple can build up their safety net again, taking the pressure off both of them.

"When she's not stressed, I'm not stressed," Taylor says. It "will help the business indirectly, because I can be more productive."
Megan Fox has clarified her comments about Donald Trump after they sparked confusion among fans.

During her appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Monday (12 July), Fox recalled her recent experience attending the UFC 264 match in Las Vegas.

I was in a row with Bieber, and Trump was also in my row, said the actor. He had like 30 secret service with him.

The 35-year-old told guest host Arsenio Hall: He was a legend. That arena was very supportive of Trump when he came in.

Following the episodes broadcast, Foxs remarks were interpreted by some fans as support for the former US president.

The Jennifers Body star has since clarified her comments in a post on her Instagram story on Wednesday night (14 July), stating that her description of Trump as a legend was an observable fact and not my opinion.

I do not align myself with any political party or individual politicians, said Fox. I never said Donald Trump is a legend. I said he was a legend in that arena (key part of the sentence).

The actor continued: The arena was filled with UFC fight fans. Many of them clearly Republican based off the insane crowd reaction he received walking into the T-Mobile venue.

That was an observable fact. Not my opinion, she said.

The New Girl star added that the quick criticism of her remarks are the result of an uneducated, mid-evil [sic], pitchfork carrying, burn a witch at the stake mentality.

Elsewhere during the interview, Fox also revealed that she took the hallucinogenic drug ayahuasca while in Costa Rica with her partner, rapper Machine Gun Kelly.
The Biden administration has announced it is ending large-scale, old-growth timber sales in the nations largest national forest - dubbed the lungs of North America - and will instead focus on forest restoration, recreation and other non-commercial uses.

The decision on the Tongass National Forest in Alaska reverses a Trump administration plan to lift restrictions on logging and road-building in the rainforest, which provides habitat for wolves, bears and salmon.

The Tongass Forest is a carbon sink, absorbing and locking in atmospheric carbon. It captures 8 per cent of annual US carbon emissions.

While tropical rainforests are the lungs of the planet, the Tongass is the lungs of North America, Dominick DellaSala, chief scientist with the Earth Island Institutes Wild Heritage project, told PBS last year. Its Americas last climate sanctuary.

Smaller timber sales, including some old-growth trees, will still be offered for local communities and cultural uses such as totem poles, canoes and tribal artisan use, the US Forest Service said.

The Agriculture Department, which includes the Forest Service, also said it will take steps to restore the so-called Roadless Rule for the Tongass.

The 2001 rule bans road construction and timber harvests with limited exceptions on nearly one-third of national forest land.

The Trump administration moved last year to exempt the Tongass, winning plaudits from Alaskas Republican governor and its all-Republican congressional delegation.

The 2020 Trump decision was expected to adversely affected the ecology of a forest that has stood for thousands of years and provides important habitat for abundant wildlifeincluding rivers that host all five species of Pacific salmon, the economic backbone of southeastern Alaska communities.

By restoring roadless-rule protections, officials are returning stability and certainty to the conservation of 9.3 million acres of the worlds largest temperate old growth rainforest, the Agriculture Department said.

Conservationists cheered the announcement, which the administration had signaled last month.

In a statement to The Independent, Ken Rait, a project director at The Pew Charitable Trusts who ran its Heritage Forest Campaign, said: We are thrilled that rightful protections will be restored to the Tongass, and expeditiously.

Old-growth forests are critical to addressing climate change, so restoring roadless protections to the Tongass is critical, said Andy Moderow of the Alaska Wilderness League.

With Alaska experiencing climate impacts more acutely than most, we shouldnt be discussing the continued clearcutting of a national forest long considered the crown jewel of the US forest system, he added.

Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy criticized President Bidens announcement last month, planning to repeal or replace the Mr Trumps 2020 decision. Gov. Dunleavy, a Republican, vowed to use every tool available to push back.

Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski, of Alaska, said the Biden administration was literally throwing away years of work by the Forest Service and Agriculture Department under Mr Trump.

We need to end this yo-yo effect as the lives of Alaskans who live and work in the Tongass are upended every time we have a new president, Murkowski said last month. This has to end.

The action on the Tongass follows a decision by the Biden administration last month to suspend oil and gas leases in Alaskas Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

A 2017 tax-cut law passed by congressional Republicans called for two lease sales to be held in the refuge. A January lease sale in the refuge drew a tepid response.

In an action that angered environmentalists, the Biden administration has defended a Trump-era decision to approve a major oil project on Alaskas North Slope that Alaska political leaders have supported.

More than 9 million of the Tongass roughly 16.7 million acres are considered roadless areas, according to a federal environmental review last year. The majority of the Tongass is in a natural condition, and the forest is one of the largest relatively intact temperate rainforests in the world, the review said.

AP contributed to this report
More than 1,300 firefighters are tackling the Bootleg Fire in Oregon, currently the largest fire in the US, after reports that more than a million acres across 12 states have been razed by fires.

The Bootleg Fire roared across an area larger than New York City, destroying 20 houses and threatening 2,000 structures just north of California.

Most of them all say, Weve never seen anything like this, Gert Zoutendijk, a fire marshal from Lake Oswego, just south of Portland, told local news.

Families told TV news outlet KPTV that they escaped the fire with minutes to spare. Tim McCarley described the blaze as a firenado.

Sixty, 70, 80 feet, catch these trees over here and then just explosions  boom, boom, boom, boom as these trees were exploding, he said.

The National Weather Service tweeted late Wednesday that a terrifying satellite image showed gigantic clouds fuelled by smoke and hot air had formed over the fire  a sign that the blaze was so intense it was creating its own weather, with erratic winds and the potential for fire-generated lightning.

The wildfires are being driven by the climate crisis which is exacerbating droughts and broiling heatwaves in the American West.

In Washington, the Red Apple Fire in Chelan County, around 100 miles east of Seattle, saw around 1,000 homes evacuated.

In north-central Washington, about 200 people in the town of Nespelem on Colville tribal land were evacuated on Monday as wildfires caused by dozens of lightning strikes tore through parched vegetation.

The states Governor Jay Inslee announced a statewide drought emergency on Wednesday as at least five large fires raged in the state. The declaration means the water supply is projected to drop below 75 per cent of average.

This is the summer of climate change, he said.

A total of 16,650 wildland firefighters and support personnel are on the ground across states.

The National Interagency Fire Center, the national support centre for wildland fires, raised the USs national preparedness level to 5 on Wednesday due to significant fire activity occurring in multiple geographical areas.

The centre said that it was the earliest it had gone to level 5 in a decade.

In California, a wildfire erupted close to the town of Paradise, which is still in the rebuilding process after the deadliest fire in recent US history struck the town in 2018.

By Thursday, the wildfire was moving away from homes there but into national forest land in neighbouring Plumas County.

There was zero containment and officials said people in the tiny, remote communities of Pulga and east Concow should prepare to leave at a moments notice.

This article is being updated. AP contributed to this report
Someone stole nearly $2,000 worth of equipment that firefighters were using to to contain a wildfire near the town of Castlegar in British Columbia.

The theft was discovered on Sunday while fire crews were performing perimeter checks. They found that emergency fire suppression equipment had gone missing, and believe that the theft happened sometime between 7pm on 10 July and the morning of 11 July.

An official from the Regional District of Central Kootenay told the Surrey Now-Leader that the equipment that is believed to have been stolen is worth approximately $2,000. The pilfered items include more than 1,000 feet of hose meant for use in the forests and six sprinklers. The items had been deployed to protect a nearby home.

The Castlegar Royal Canadian Mounted Police are asking the public for help identifying the thief.

Nora Hannon, the regional fire chief of the RDCK, said it was hard to believe that someone would steal fire fighting equipment during the peak of wildfire season.

It is extremely disappointing and hard to imagine why anyone would steal this important, life saving equipment, she said. We want to make sure everyone in the community is aware the theft has occurred and ask anyone with information to please come forward to Castlegar RCMP.

The district said that the equipment was a crucial part of its strategy to protect homes from wildfires. Replacing the equipment has also become more difficult, as the increase in fires has made suppression equipment highly sought after.

The wildfire in Merry Creek began on 1 July and has since grown to encompass 37 acres (15ha). The fire has not destroyed any structures.

Earlier this week, fire officials near Castlegar warned residents to keep away from the area as the Merry Creek Fire continued to burn.

Firefighters on the scene are not actively fighting the wildfire, but have been patrolling its edges to determine if there are any especially dangerous spots.

Fire officials said that while fire fighters may be seen near the edges of the fire, residents should stay back, as no one - including the firefighters - are safe within the perimeter.

The immediate proximity of a wildfire is not only dangerous because of the fire, but also because the blaze destroys stumps and root systems, which can cause trees to topple over.

Fire officials believe the Merry Creek Fire was started by a human, but it is still being investigated.
At least 80 people have died and as many as 1,300 remain unaccounted as a result of freak flooding in western Germany and Belgium where some areas saw the highest rainfall in more than 100 years.

Two firefighters sent to rescue stranded residents are among the victims after relentless rain engorged rivers, breaking their banks and flooding homes across several states. Nine residents of an assisted living facility for people with disabilities were also among the dead.

Angela Merkel expressed her sorrow at the disaster taking place in her country. She said: Heavy rain and flooding doesnt capture what happened.

I grieve for those who have lost their lives in this disaster. We still dont know the number. But it will be many.

As the death toll climbed, officials in Ahrweiler, a rural district between Bonn and Koblenz, said it currently assumed that around 1,300 people are missing.

In a statement issued late on Thursday, the local authority said: In the area of the Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler alone there were over 1000 open missions - currently rescue missions are still ongoing. Due to the complex damage situation, a final assessment of the situation is currently not possible.

German authorities confirmed that 28 people had died in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate, where six houses collapsed in the most serious single incident and scores still remain missing. At least 30 more are dead in North Rhine-Westphalia.

About 25 more houses are at risk of collapsing in the worst-affected district of Schuld bei Adenau in the hilly Eifel region near Bonn. Dozens of people in the district remained unaccounted for.

Belgian media reported eight deaths in the country.

Fire fighters stand atop their vehicle as they climb into a house in the flooded village of Ehrang in Rhineland-Palatinate (Fire Brigades City of Trier/AFP/Getty)

A request for international assistance by the European Commission was met by the Italian civil protection agency, which said it had sent personnel and vehicles to aid the rescue effort. Boris Johnson said on Thursday evening the UK was ready to support the flood recovery efforts in Europe.

The deluge of rain has disrupted rail, road and river transport in Germanys most populous region.

In some areas, we have not seen this much rainfall in 100 years, German weather service spokesperson Andreas Friedrich told CNN. In some areas weve seen more than double the amount of rainfall which has caused flooding and unfortunately some building structures to collapse.

The small city of Hagen, near Dortmund, declared a state of emergency after the Volme river breached its bank. Residents were urged to move to higher ground as dozens of cars were pictured floating in the streets on a powerful stream of water.

We see this kind of situation only in winter ordinarily, Bernd Mehlig, an environment official from North Rhine-Westphalia, the most affected region, told broadcaster WDR. "Something like this, with this intensity, is completely unusual in summer."

Some parts of Hagen have become inaccessible and are isolated due to the high waters. Residents in Dusseldorf, a major business hotspot, were also asked to evacuate.

Two men, aged 77 and 82, died in their basements after they were flooded in the western cities of Kamen and Wuppertal, the police said.

A dam is threatening to burst in North Rhine-Westphalia as water levels swelled and authorities sounded the alarm to residents whose homes could be affected.

A man and firefighter walk through masses of debris following heavy rainfalls in Schuld, Germany (Reuters)

A threat is also emerging from another dam which could break in several villages below the Steinbachtal reservoir and Rhine-Sieg county south of Cologne, where evacuations have been ordered.

One of the firefighters died after he lost his foothold in the floodwaters and got swept away. A care home in Hagen had to be evacuated, while cellars and some hospitals saw flooding.

People are evacuated from their homes in South Limburg, the Netherlands, by the fire brigade (EPA)

Landslides have been reported in some places, disrupting relief work, and major highways lie inundated. In the south and east of the country, many railway services were stopped.

Neighbouring Belgium has also been battered by heavy rains, causing flash floods in which at least six people have died. In Liege, there are fears the Meuse river could break its banks, with the mayor urging residents to evacuate the city.

Elsewhere, the Netherlands government rushed some 70 troops to the southern province of Limburg late on Wednesday to carry out evacuation work and use sandbags to plug the banks of a river that was on the brink of bursting.

At least 11 areas of France are under orange alert for floods as of Thursday, as the unusual storm dumped heavy rains at the start of the summer season, reported The Local. The equivalent of two months of rain has already fallen on some areas in the last one or two days, according to the French national weather service.

And in Luxembourg, torrential rains caused flash floods in several areas of the country. About 100 road sections are now blocked and the Alzette river has burst its banks. Emergency services had responded to 1,200 calls related to the floods as of Thursday morning, reported the Luxembourg Times.

Additional reporting by agencies
The governor of Washington has declared that it is the summer of climate change as he made a drought emergency declaration in the midst of deadly heatwave.

Governor Jay Inslee issued the proclamation, labelling it a product of the climate crisis.

This is the summer of climate change, he said at a press conference, where he was joined by Laura Watson, the director of the states Department of Ecology. The declaration covers all of Washington, aside from Seattle, Tacoma and Everett.

He continued, This is not political hyperbole. It is a scientific consensus that is jarring the life of every Washingtonian in some way.

Last weeks report from the World Weather Attribution ruled that these conditions would be virtually impossible without human-caused climate change.

A drought emergency is called when the water level averages are estimated to be below 75 per cent. It gives the Department of Ecology the authority to impose emergency help measures, such as short-term shifts of water rights and the ability to give money to public bodies. The same emergency drought declaration was called in both 2015 and 2019.

In recent weeks, the state, and the wider Pacific Northwest region, has experienced record-breaking temperatures, ranging from 37C to 47C. According to research from the University of Nebraska, 60 per cent of the western US is in a drought. This includes states such as California, Oregon, and Arizona. Provinces in Canada, including British Columbia, have also been dealing with similar heatwave conditions.

According to the US Drought Monitor, 95 per cent of the state is abnormally dry or officially in a drought. While 57.7 per cent of Washington is believed to be in either severe, extreme or exceptional drought.

In May, Washington declared a drought advisory following one of the driest springs since records began 127 years ago, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said.

According to data released this week from the Washington Department of Health, 91 people are believed to have died due to the heatwave, a rise of 13 from last week, when the total stood at 78. The death toll for the entire affected Northwest is thought be more than 800, according to KUOW, a local affiliate of NPR.

State senators, such as Republican Mark Schoesler, criticised Governor Inslee for not declaring a drought emergency sooner. He said that farmers have been dealing with the consequences of the problem for months.

While the governors drought declaration is welcome and expected news, it is long overdue for our part of the state, the representative for the 9th Legislative District said.

Farmers throughout eastern Washington have known since early this spring that we are facing a serious drought problem in our region, and the very hot and dry summer so far has just made it worse."

Ms Watson said the conditions had not been met until very recently to declare a drought emergency.

Last week, Governor Inslee issued another emergency declaration about the wildfires in the state. Hilary Franz, Commissioner of Public Lands, said 2021 was likely to be the worst of the last five years, and urged residents to follow the no bonfire mandate.

If our new normal brings months without a drop of rain and one extreme heat wave after another, there's no technology or amount of resources that will be able to match the on-the-ground reality our firefighters are facing, she said at the press conference last week.
A new survey has found that two-thirds of Republicans living in the American South would approve of seceding from the US to join a hypothetical new union of southern states.

The alarming finding comes as the partisan alignment of different regions of the US becomes more extreme  and extends beyond politics and into Covid-19 vaccine takeup, with parts of the Southeast lagging well behind the rest of the country.

The poll, conducted by YouGov and Bright Line Watch , saw respondents across the country asked whether they would support joining an imaginary union of neighbouring states.

The pollsters divided the US into five of these groups: a Pacific one of California, Oregon, Washington, Alaska and Hawaii; Mountain, a slice down the Western states; Heartland, taking in the upper and central Midwest as well as some of the rust belt; Northeast, covering New England and the Mid-Atlantic states; and the South, which combined the 11 states that formally joined the Confederacy in 1860-61 with Kentucky and Oklahoma.

According to the results, a fair share of Democrats, Independents and Republicans in different regions can imagine leaving the US to join a smaller union might be a positive thing. But in only one region, the South, did a majority of one group come out in favour  with 66 per cent of Southern Republicans approving of the idea of a secessionist Southern union.

Bright Line Watch cautioned that the results of this part of their poll are not to be taken literally, since secession is a genuinely radical proposition and expressions of support in a survey may map only loosely onto willingness to act toward that end. However, they say, the hypothetical question nonetheless taps into respondents commitments to the American political system at the highest level and with reference to a concrete alternative.

In that light, it is remarkable to see that two-thirds of Southern Republicans are amenable to the idea of living outside the US  more than 20 points higher than the share of Republicans saying the same in any other region. And the figure is especially stark given the prevailing climate on the American right and debates around the status of Confederate monuments and the Confederate flag.

However, there has as yet been no serious talk of secession in the political mainstream. One national Republican figure to have raised the idea is Allen West, a former Tea Party congressman from Florida who moved to Texas to head up the state Republican Party. During his tenure, the party endorsed legislation that would allow a Texit referendum on the states membership of the US, a matter on which he said Texans have the right to voice their opinion.

Mr West recently announced he is challenging incumbent GOP governor Greg Abbott in his 2022 re-election campaign. However, the idea of a Texit referendum has shown little sign of gathering support.
From Monday 19 July, people in England will no longer be legally obliged to wear face coverings in public places for the first time since June 2020.

Last week, Boris Johnson announced that the mandate for face coverings would soon be removed but said people might choose to continue wearing them in areas where cases are rising and in enclosed spaces, such as public transport at peak hours.

Additionally, despite the changing legalities, new guidance will be issued by the government telling the public they are expected to wear face coverings in indoor enclosed places.

As a result, business groups have criticised the government, saying companies and customers have been left with mixed messages and patchwork requirements ahead of 19 July.

This change in mask policy is despite a surge in cases of the virus - the daily number of infections surged to above 40,000 on Wednesday, the highest since mid-January meaning there have been 245,000 positive cases in the last seven days - and concerns expressed by scientists.

And as the date approaches, several major companies, such as TFL and Waterstones have announced that they will still be asking customers to continue wearing face coverings.

Heres all the companies we know about so far.

Waterstones

On Tuesday, the book shop chain announced it would still be observing government guidance on coronavirus after Monday 19 July.

Given our enclosed browsing environment, we encourage our customers to wear face masks and observe social distancing, respecting the safety of staff and fellow book lovers, the company tweeted.

Center Parcs

Martin Dalby, chief executive of Center Parcs, has said this week that masks would still be encouraged for staff and customers in the indoor sections of its holiday parks from Monday.

The approach from Center Parcs will be to recommend that both our employees and our customers do wear face coverings when in indoor settings - thats the advice were going to give them, he said. However, he added: Its not mandatory and we wont be policing it.

City Pub Group

The City Pub Group has said it will continue to encourage people to wear masks in its 45 pubs across the south of England and Wales.

We dont want a free-for-all scrum at the bar, loads of people queuing up, chief executive, Clive Watson, told the BBC.

Transport for London (TFL) services

On Thursday, London Mayor Sadiq Khan announced that he had asked TFL to enforce the use of masks on public transport after restrictions lift on 19 July.

Mr Khan said he was not prepared to put tube, tram and other transport users in the capital at risk by removing the rules on face coverings after so-called Freedom Day.

Sainsburys

Sainsburys has said that it will be keeping several of the current Covid measures after 19 July.

The supermarket will encourage customers to continue to wear a face covering, if they can, while staff will also be encouraged to wear a mask, with the exception of those who are working from behind a screen at a checkout till.

Aldi

An Aldi spokesperson confirmed that they will also be encouraging customers and colleagues to wear face coverings when in store from Monday 19 July.

Other measures like hand sanitiser and screens will also stay in place. Face masks are still required for customers and colleagues in our Welsh and Scottish stores, in line with the latest guidance, they said.

Tesco

Tesco will be encouraging colleagues and customers to wear face masks after 19 July.

A Tesco spokesperson said: Since the start of the pandemic, we have focused on ensuring everyone can get the food they need in a safe environment. Having listened to our customers and colleagues, we will continue to have safety measures in place in our stores; these include limiting the number of people in store at any time, protective screens at every checkout, hand sanitiser stations and regular cleaning.

Were asking our customers and colleagues to be on the safe side, and so from 19 July well be encouraging our colleagues to wear face coverings whilst they work and encouraging our customers to do the same when they shop with us.

Co-op

Co-op has taken a more relaxed approach, stating that customers can feel free to wear a face covering if they choose, and they will support colleagues who choose to wear one as well.

A spokesperson said: Our priority is to provide a safe shopping and working environment for our customers and colleagues and we will continue to follow official guidelines from the UK Government and Governments in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

In England, from the 19 July when restrictions are eased, we will support customers and colleagues who choose to wear a face covering for the protection of others and encourage all shoppers to be respectful of peoples personal space when in the store. Perspex screens at till points and store entrance sanitising cleaning stations will remain in place at all of our stores.

What have other supermarkets said?

Waitrose

Waitrose has not yet announced its policy on masks, having said that it is currently awaiting government guidance and we will work through that when we have it.

Morrisons

Similarly, Morrisons has concurred that it is waiting for further guidance from the government before making any decisions regarding face coverings.

"This will be reviewed in line with our own policies this week to allow us to make the right decision for the safety of our colleagues and customers, a spokesperson said.

Iceland

Iceland has not yet announced its policy.

An Iceland spokesperson said: We are currently reviewing our policies in line with the latest updates from the Government on the easing of restrictions, and will continue to do so as further updates are provided. The safety of our customers and colleagues will continue to be our priority as restrictions are eased and we will update on any changes as we are able to do so.
Jackson Palmer, one of the creators of the meme-based digital token Dogecoin, has condemned cryptocurrency in a damning thread.

After years of studying it, I believe that cryptocurrency is an inherently right-wing, hyper-capitalistic technology built primarily to amplify the wealth of its proponents through a combination of tax avoidance, diminished regulatory oversight and artificially enforced scarcity, Mr Palmer tweeted.

Rather than alleviating people from financial institutions and decreasing centralised power, one of the main benefits argued by cryptocurrency evangelists, Palmer said the industry is controlled by a powerful cartel of wealthy figures who, with time, have evolved to incorporate many of the same institutions tied to the existing centralised financial system they supposedly set out to replace.

The cult of cryptocurrency has become akin to a get rich quick funnel, he argued, and that cryptocurrency is almost purpose built to make the funnel of profiteering more efficient for those at the top and less safeguarded for the vulnerable.

This is through software that limits financial interventions such as audits, regulation, and taxation, in order to exacerbate the worst parts of todays capitalist system, Mr Palmer wrote, which include corruption, fraud, [and] inequality.

In June 2021, Britains Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) stated that Binance, one of the worlds largest cryptocurrency exchanges, could not undertake any regulated activity in the UK.

In other countries, including the United States and Germany, cryptocurrency has come under scrutiny from regulators about its use in illegal and illicit activities.

The Dogecoin founder points to the fact that if users fall victim to scams, the industry regards it as the victims fault, but that billionaires manipulating markets are regarded as geniuses.

Similar criticisms have been levied at Tesla CEO Elon Musk, whose tweets have been able to move crypto markets with ease. In May 2021, Mr Musk jokingly called Dogecoin a hustle during his appearance on the late-night comedy show SNL.

Several crypto investors point to Musks tweet as a tipping point in bitcoins biggest collapse of the year, which was peaking even as late as mid-April at close to $65,000.

This is the type of dangerous free for all capitalism cryptocurrency was unfortunately architected to facilitate since its inception, Palmer also said.

Crypto prices have fallen continually over recent months. In March and April, bitcoin was comfortably above $60,000, but over recent weeks its price has dropped to just above $30,000.

New regulation from China saw a dramatic plunge in bitcoins appeal, after three state-backed organisations  which include the China Banking Association  said in a statement that cryptocurrency is not real, and that it should not and cannot be used as currency in the market.

It also warned that consumers should be prepared to lose their holdings, as well as indicating that further regulation could be coming in the future, something that has been echoed by the Bank of England.
Elon Musks space company SpaceX may be forced to take down a tower at its Boca Chica launch site because an environmental review of the structure has not been completed by the The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

An FAA spokesman said on Wednesday that the agencys environmental review underway of SpaceXs proposed rocket assembly integration tower is underway, and added that the company is building the tower at its own risk.

A May 6 letter from the FAA to SpaceX seen by Reuters said recent construction activity on one of the two proposed towers may complicate the ongoing environmental review process for the Starship/Super Heavy Launch Vehicle Program. The FAA letter said the tower could be as high as 480 feet.

Based on the environmental review, the FAA could order SpaceX to take down the tower. It is possible that changes would have to be made at the launch site, including to the integration towers to mitigate significant impacts, the May 6 letter said, adding the FAA learned of the towers construction based on publicly available video footage.

SpaceX did not respond to a request for comment but Musk has repeatedly criticized the FAA and the U.S. regulatory system.

SpaceX told the FAA in May that it did not believe the review was necessary because it only intends to use the integration tower for production, research, and development purposes and not for FAA-licensed or -permitted launches, the FAA said.

But the agency said description in documents indicates otherwise. The FAA cited a SpaceX document that the towers would be used to integrate the Starship/Super Heavy launch vehicle. Super Heavy would be mated to the launch mount, followed by Starship mated to Super Heavy, the FAA letter said quoting SpaceXs 5 May submission.

The FAA and Musk have clashed on several occasions. On June 29, Musk lamented the delay of the launch of Transporter-2 mission in Florida. He tweeted an aircraft entered the keep out zones, which is unreasonably gigantic. There is simply no way that humanity can become a spacefaring civilization without major regulatory reform. Earlier this year, the FAA said SpaceXs December launch of Starship SN8 violated its license requirements. Effective March 12, the FAA began requiring an agency safety inspector at all SpaceX launches to ensure compliance with federal regulations to protect public safety.

FAA Administrator Steve Dickson spoke with Musk on March 12 for 30 minutes to stress the FAAs role in protecting public safety by ensuring regulatory compliance. He made it clear that the FAA expected SpaceX to develop and foster a robust safety culture that stresses adherence to FAA rules, the agency said in April.

Despite this conflict, the FAA has defended SpaceX despite the companys unauthorised launch of a Starship prototype in December, ignoring the warnings from a safety inspector.

During a House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing, representative Peter DeFazio asked FAA associate administrator Wayne Monteith what SpaceX has done to deal with the operational concerns and cultural issues after the unauthorised launch of the SN8 Starship.

We would not have cleared them to start flight operations again had I not been confident they had modified their procedures effectively and addressed the safety culture issues that we saw, he said.

Additional reporting by Reuters
Microsoft is planning to bring Clippy, its Office 97 assistant that looks like a paperclip, back to Windows.

The software giant tweeted a photo of Clippy saying that, if the post received 20,000 likes, it would replace the paperclip emoji in Microsoft Office with Clippy.

At time of writing, the tweet has nearly 134,000 likes.

Clippy infamously offered support in Microsoft Word and other programs, such as Microsoft Publisher, but by 2008 the assistant was killed. Windows 10, Microsofts current operating system, uses Cortana as its virtual assistant  a name taken from the Halo game franchise.

The paperclip, whose proper name was Clippit, was apparently a polarising feature, hence its removal.

Users "liked having someone with them, and not being alone," Larson-Green, the executive responsible for Clippys departure, who previously led user-interface design for Office products, said; however, the assistant could only reply with pre-written responses, limiting its usability.

The Independent has reached out to Microsoft for more information about when the change is expected to happen.

Microsoft recently released new nostalgic backgrounds for users which featured an image of Clippy hanging out by a stairway atop of reams of paper, as part of its update to Teams.

Teams, the companys Skype replacement, will also be built-in to Windows 11, its recently released operating system.

The new OS has an updated Start Menu, Widgets, and replaced Live Tiles. There were also updates to the Xbox app, a new Microsoft Store where users could download Android apps, as well as improvements to the operating systems speed and Snap Layouts for better window management.
From Monday, coronavirus restrictions will be eased across England bringing an end to social distancing laws and compulsory mask wearing, although Boris Johnson has urged people to continue exercising caution when out in public and near those you do not normally see.

Although the prime minister has said he expects that people still wear face masks in crowded or enclosed spaces, such as public transport, and to keep thinking of others, there has been criticism over explicit safety provisions for those classed as clinically vulnerable once the mandate has lifted and is replaced with only guidance to do so.

Government advice for the clinically vulnerable recommends avoiding people who have not had both doses of the vaccine - 35,000,000 people have had both doses, leaving around half the population not double-jabbed - and only meeting others outdoors if possible. They should also ask friends and family to take lateral flow tests before visiting and go to supermarkets and other shops at quieter times of the day.

The guidance advises to limit contact with people they do not usually meet, particularly if the number of Covid-19 cases are high. On Tuesday, the UK reported 36,660 new Covid-19 cases, the seventh day in a row where the number has exceeded 30,000.

Health charities have said that the lifting of restrictions supplemented only by this guidance is removing protective measures for the estimated 3.7 million people who are classed as clinically vulnerable.

For many, the lifting of restrictions will make them feel like they have less freedom rather than more, Sarah Woolnough, chief executive of Asthma UK and the BLF told The Independent. The new guidance means the burden of staying well has fallen squarely on them and many will feel they cant participate in the same daily activities as they did before.

According to a survey carried out by Asthma UK and the British Lung Foundation (BLF), nearly all people with lung conditions said they think mask-wearing should continue unless people are medically exempt.

Gemma Peters, CEO of Blood Cancer UK said: The overwhelming feeling from our community is of anxiety...lots of them have told us its been great to start getting back to normal over the last couple of months. But the reason many have felt able to do this is because people [around] them have been keeping their distance and wearing masks.

With cases on the rise and restrictions set to lift, we spoke with clinically extremely vulnerable people on how they feel about 19 July.

Rebecca Magnus, 33

In a post-Covid world, there is no place for the clinically extremely vulnerable. It is survival of the fittest

Since April, Ive enjoyed the small freedoms Ive had after many bleak and difficult months. Popping into shops, supporting local businesses, going into galleries and museums when theyre quiet, seeing family and friends outside, taking part in society in small, joyful ways. That changes from 19 July.

From Monday, I dont feel clinically safe going into shops, cafes, public transport, cultural spaces, really any enclosed space unless essential or urgent. We cant rely on the kindness of others to protect our lives; we need the legal protections offered by the current mandates or shielding provisions to help us protect our health with the bare minimum clinical and societal support in place.

There has been no consideration at all of clinically extremely vulnerable people in their re-opening plans

My very real fear is that we will pay the price for government recklessness with our lives. I feel that people will die needlessly, and their deaths are a deliberate political choice, because they have chosen to take away all legal protections and provisions at the point theyre needed most.

There has been no consideration at all of clinically extremely vulnerable people in their re-opening plans and their muddled, ill-considered and out-of-touch communications reflect that. Through their words and actions, the government is saying that in a post-Covid world, there is no place for the clinically extremely vulnerable. It is survival of the fittest and we are not fit to survive.

Mita Mistry, 47

I dont want to stop living my life but at the same time, Im going to have to reinvent and create my own measures to protect myself and be extra vigilant.

Ive had both Covid-19 vaccines but that doesnt mean Im not at risk of getting the virus, I can still get it. Ive got a compromised immune system, so to have all these restrictions lifted all of a sudden when cases are rising is quite worrying. Also, the guidance is very unclear and just seems a bit irresponsible. If youre a clinically vulnerable person, how are you supposed to know if somebody has been double jabbed? And even if they have, they still might have Covid-19.

Theres still so much uncertainty that the safest thing for anybody, whether youre clinically vulnerable or not, would be to put your own measures in place because this government is not giving us clear guidance. I dont think they are protecting clinically vulnerable people.

I will still be social distancing even though they are removing the restrictions. I will still be very careful going into public spaces, wearing masks and washing my hands because I dont really feel that the threat of the virus has truly gone away just yet. I dont want to stop living my life but at the same time, Im going to have to reinvent and create my own measures to protect myself and be extra vigilant.

Taylor Jones*

We have religiously stuck to the rules up until now, and as a thank you from the government we are now just collateral damage.

Me and my wife, who is clinically vulnerable, feel like we have been thrown under a bus and we feel more at risk than ever. Freedom Day is anything but. We have religiously stuck to the rules up until now, and as a thank you from the government we are now just collateral damage.

Whilst the numbers have been low, we have enjoyed seeing people outside after a year of only talking to them over FaceTime. We have also just started swimming again and thats been such a treat. With low numbers of positive cases, social distancing and masks we have felt safer. But with rising cases, and no masks, we wont feel safe doing anything inside public places. Apart from going on park walks and other outside activities when its quiet, its going to be just like shielding again.

We feel like we have been thrown under a bus and we feel more at risk than ever

We have three children who have been amazing [throughout the pandemic] and have just taken everything in their stride. But we now worry about the end of school bubbles, and no more masks in school seems crazy when [children] are unvaccinated.

Billy Tidman, 24

The bare minimum is not good enough in this situation and many more people will continue to get Covid-19 and suffer the consequences alone.

I am supposed to be going back to work at the tail end of August for an office job. I have had both vaccines but not sure on how I will cope if Im honest. I wear a mask everywhere I go but seeing people not bother to is a huge concern for me.

I think the social-distancing rule has been a farce, with hardly anyone keeping to it. My [local] shopping centre recently was packed full of people not wearing masks or keeping their distance.

I do not feel the government have done enough. They have not asked from the perspective of those who are clinically extremely vulnerable. The bare minimum is not good enough in this situation and many more people will continue to get Covid-19 and suffer the consequences alone.

*This name has been changed to protect their privacy.
Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said Wednesday that the country can beat a concerning rise in new coronavirus cases without a nationwide shutdown, but that depends in part on people wearing masks indoors to suppress the spread of the highly contagious delta variant.

The easiest thing is to do what they did in the past year and a half, to announce a lockdown. But we prefer a different approach," Bennett told reporters at a news conference. For us, locking people in their homes is a last resort.

He spoke as new daily infections climbed to more than 700 on Wednesday. That's despite one of the world's fastest inoculation campaigns. More than 5.7 million people of Israel's population of 9.3 million have been vaccinated at least once. Some 5.2 million people have received two doses.

Israel has a standing mask-wearing mandate for people gathering indoors, but adherence is poor  even on public transit and in hospitals  and enforcement is lax. Bennett said he instructed police to step up enforcement of mask rules with high fines.

Most cases are mild and serious cases remain relatively low  but almost all new cases are due to the contagious delta variant.

Bennett also announced that Prof. Salman Zarka, head of the Ziv Medical Center in northern Israel, will oversee the country's response as the new coronavirus czar.

Zarka, a member of Israel's Druze minority, formerly commanded the Israeli army's medical corps and ran the Israeli field hospital providing humanitarian aid to Syrians
Business groups have criticised the government over its raft of new Covid guidance, saying companies and customers have been left with mixed messages and patchwork requirements ahead of the planned easing of curbs on 19 July.

Under plans to relax restrictions next week, ministers have said wearing a face mask in indoor settings will switch from a legal requirement to a matter of personal choice.

From Monday, all legal limits on the numbers meeting indoors and outdoors will be scrapped and all businesses will reopen, including nightclubs  for the first time since March 2020.

However the advice has led to confusion with some members of the government continuing to advise the public to use face coverings in certain settings, such as on public transport and in crowded spaces.

Leading businesses and transport bodies have said they will continue to mandate masks despite the change in the rules.

Transport for London, Heathrow Airport and several major restaurant and pub chains  including the owner of the Gaucho chain and City Pub Group  have said they will continue to ask customers to cover their nose and mouth.

Bookshop chain Waterstones has also said it will request shoppers wear masks.

However there is uncertainty over how the rules will be implemented in many of the UKs supermarkets.

Sainsburys has confirmed that many of the Covid measures customers will stay in place in their shops after 19 July.

From Monday, new signs and tannoy messages in Sainsburys stores will encourage customers to continue to wear a face covering, and staff will be encouraged to wear a face covering, unless they are behind a screen.

Barriers between self-service checkouts and dividing checkout queues will be gradually removed from its stores in England, but they will remain in place between colleagues and customers when they are being served at checkouts.

Other supermarkets have said they are awaiting further guidance or are still conducting a review of their mask policy with days to go before the rules change.

Roger Barker, policy director at the Institute of Directors, accused the government of announcing a series of mixed messages and patchwork requirements which he said had dampened enthusiasm among businesses for the unlocking.

The Association of Convenience Stores warned that the tensions in government messaging will play out not in the corridors of government departments but on trains and buses and in the aisles of shops.

Hannah Essex, co-executive director of the British Chambers of Commerce, complained companies had just five days to make this judgment call and effectively communicate it to staff and customers.

Asked on Sky News if the government had created confusion for businesses, minister Robert Jenrick said: I disagree with that. Weve published guidance and the guidance reflects the huge diversity of businesses.

There might be situations where businesses might choose to pursue these policies based on their best judgement  this is the sort of discretion they want.

You can already see TfL, that manages the Tube in London, have come to, in my opinion, a perfectly sensible judgement that in the confines of the Tube you should be using a mask.

And there are also some supermarkets coming to that conclusion as well. Waterstones, who I understand will be asking their customers to wear masks  that seems a logical decision.

We trust businesses just as we trust the public to come to sensible, reasonable positions.
The foreign ministers of India and China met in Tajikistan on Wednesday with New Delhi stressing that a military standoff along a mountainous border area was profoundly disturbing their ties, and warning that any unilateral change in the status quo by Beijing was unacceptable.

Full restoration and maintenance of peace and tranquility in border areas is essential for the development of bilateral ties, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said in a tweet.

Jaishankar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang YI met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization foreign ministers' meeting in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

There was no immediate Chinese comment on the meeting between the two foreign ministers.

The standoff between India and China has continued for more than a year despite military talks involving local commanders and political meetings between foreign and defense ministers.

Jaishankar said the two sides agreed Wednesday to hold a meeting of senior military commanders.

Last year, 20 Indian troops died in a clash with Chinese soldiers involving clubs, stones and fists in a portion of the disputed border. China said it lost four soldiers.

Both sides have mobilized tens of thousands of soldiers, artillery and fighter aircraft along the fiercely contested border known as the Line of Actual Control that separates Chinese and Indian-held territories from Ladakh in the west to Indias eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims in its entirety.

Indian military officials say the Chinese army has stepped up deployment in the contested region, which has been met by a similar move by Indian troops.

Also Wednesday, the Indian army denied a media report that Indian and Chinese soldiers had recently clashed again in Eastern Ladakh.

"Ever since the disengagement agreement in February this year, there has been no attempt by either side to occupy the areas from where the disengagement had been undertaken. There have been no clashes in Galwan or any other area, as reported in the article," the army said in a statement.

India and China fought a war in 1962.

Recalling their last meeting in Moscow in September last year, Jaishankar emphasized the need to follow through on an agreement reached then on disengagement along the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh.

He said a successful disengagement in the Pangong Lake area earlier this year had created conditions for resolving the remaining issues. "It was expected that the Chinese side would work with us towards this objective. The Indian External Affairs Minister noted however that the situation in the remaining areas is still unresolved, the Indian side said in a statement.
Russia engaged military aircraft Wednesday to fight wildfires that have engulfed wide swaths of Siberia

The Russian Defense Ministry said it provided heavy-lift Il-76 transport planes to help douse fires in northeastern Siberia's Sakha-Yakutia region. The planes dumped 330 metric tons (364 tons) of water on the most active fires.

The military also sent helicopters to help transport firefighters and supplies in the region.

The Russian state agency responsible for fighting forest fires, Avialesookhrana, said Tuesday that more than 300 fires had engulfed 799,500 hectares (more than 1,975,000 acres).

It said that the worst situation was in Yakutia, where 144 fires covered 578,000 hectares (over 1,428,000 acres).

Russia has been plagued by widespread forest fires, blamed on unusually high temperatures and the neglect of fire safety rules.
A record wave of antisemitic incidents were sparked by the Israel-Gaza conflict, a monitoring group has said.

They included people targeting random Jewish people, including school children, with abuse and graffiti on synagogues.

A report said that violent rhetoric and extremist incitement was seen online and from a small minority of protesters at some pro-Palestinian demonstrations.

The Community Security Trust (CST) recorded 628 antisemitic hate incidents between 8 May and 7 June, the highest number ever recorded in a month.

Chief executive Mark Gardner said: This anti-Jewish rage was fuelledby extremists and directed against everyone from schoolchildren to rabbis, coming as violence and intimidation in schools, streets and shopping centres.

We need firmer action against the perpetrators, and an end to the selective anti-racism from thosewho passionately oppose most racism but uniquely ignore, misrepresent or make excuses for this type of anti-Jewish hate.

In the same period, Islamophobia reporting group Tell Mama recorded a rise in reports of anti-Muslim hatred.

Incidents dealt with by the police include an attack on Rabbi Rafi Goodwin near his synagogue in north London..

Separately, four men were arrested after passengers in a convoy of cars covered with Palestinian flags were heard to use offensive language and make threats against Jewish people in London.

The CST said 585 out of the 628 antisemitic incidents recorded involved language, imagery or behaviour linked to the Israel-Gaza conflict.

Its counted 112 examples of individuals targeting random Jewish people or Jewish neighbourhoods with shouts of free Palestine, Palestinian flags or both.

The CST said it did not treat the phrases free Palestine or free Gaza as antisemitic unless were used to specifically target Jewish people, and that some incidents also included abusive or threatening language.

In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Show all 124 1 /124 In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian boy peaks from behind Palestinian militants of the Ezzedine al-Qassam brigade, the armed wing of Hamas, during a rally to commemorate the 27th anniversary of the Islamist movement's creation AFP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian man carries the body of his daughter, who was killed during Israeli shelling, outside the al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City AFP/Getty In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinian girls play inside their school which was destroyed during the 50 days of conflict between Israel and Hamas last summer, in the Shejaiya neighborhood of Gaza City AFP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Members of Hamas security forces march during their graduation ceremony at the fisherman's port in Gaza City AP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict An Israeli soldier gestures in relief as he walks with comrades near the border between Israel and the Gaza Strip after returning from the Hamas-controlled Palestinian coastal enclave AFP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict An Israeli Merkava tank moves along a road near the border with the Gaza Strip, Southern Israel EPA In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinians attend Friday noon prayers next to a destroyed mosque was hit by Israeli strikes in Gaza City AP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinians attend Friday noon prayers in a destroyed mosque that was hit by Israeli strikes, in Gaza City, as Israel and Gaza militants resumed cross-border attacks after a three-day truce expired and Egyptian-brokered talks on a new border deal for blockaded Gaza hit a deadlock AP Photo In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinians attend Friday noon prayers in the shadow of a toppled minaret at a mosque that was hit by Israeli strikes in Gaza City, as Israel and Gaza militants resumed cross-border attacks after a three-day truce expired and Egyptian-brokered talks on a new border deal for blockaded Gaza hit a deadlock AP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Relatives mourn during the funeral of 10-year old Ibraheem al-Dawawsa. According to medics the child died in an Israeli airstrike on a mosque which is under construction. The boy is the first dead in Gaza after a 72-hours ceasefire EPA In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A relative of Palestinian boy Ibrahim Al-Dawawsa, 12, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike, grieves during his funeral in Gaza City AP Photo In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinians attend Friday noon prayers in a destroyed mosque that was hit by Israeli strikes, in Gaza City AP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Smoke rises following Israeli air strikes in northern Gaza City. The Israeli army hit targets in the Gaza Strip in response to rocket attacks by Palestinian militants, after a three-day ceasefire ended and Egypt-mediated indirect talks failed to secure a longer truce EPA In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian man stands on the rubble of a home destroyed by an Israeli air strike in Rafah Getty Images In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Israeli soldiers embrace each other as they sing at a staging area at an unspecified location near the Gaza border EPA In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A shell lies on the ground at the heavily damaged Sobhi Abu Karsh school in Gaza City Getty Images In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A shrapnel-holed wall in the Sobhi Abu Karsh school in Gaza Citys al-Shejaea neighbourhood Getty Images In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Israeli soldiers celebrate after returning to Israel from Gaza Reuters In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinian men ride a donkey cart past destroyed buildings in the northern Gaza Strip Getty Images In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian inspects destroyed houses and the area where the Al-Wafaa hospital used to stand Getty Images In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian man holds his child in his destroyed home in Beit Hanoun EPA In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinian brothers sit on the rubble of their house in front of an apartment block in part of the northern Beit Hanun district of the Gaza Strip after a 72-hour truce accepted by Israel and Hamas came into effect AFP/Getty In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A general view shows destruction in part of the northern Beit Hanun district of Gaza Strip at the beginning of a 72-hour truce accepted by Israel and Hamas AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian carries his belongings from rubble of his destroyed house in Khoza-a neighbourhood in the east of Khanyounis town in the southern Gaza Strip EPA In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Backdropped by the damaged minaret of the Al-Azba mosque, Palestinians inspect the damage to the Nada Towers residential neighborhood in the town of Beit Lahiya, northern Gaza Strip AP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinians used pieces of cardboard as protection from the sun while queuing up in front of a bakery in Gaza City. A seven-hour humanitarian ceasefire called by Israel went into effect in most of the Gaza Strip, after an attack that killed 10 people at a UN-run school EPA In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict An Israeli soldier rides an armoured personnel carrier (APC) towards a staging area near the border with the Gaza Strip. Palestinians accused Israel of breaking its own ceasefire on Monday by launching a bomb attack on a refugee camp in Gaza City that killed an eight-year-old girl and wounded 29 other people REUTERS In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinians carry bags as they return to check on what is left of their homes and businesses following the Israeli military offensive, close to the Rafah refugee camp, in southern Gaza Strip AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Civil defence workers and medics are searching the neighborhood looking for victims of the ongoing Israeli military operation which has killed some 1,829 Palestinians, mainly civilians in nearly one month AFP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian man picks through rubble in a classroom inside a UN school that was hit by shelling Getty Images In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian man inspects the damage at a UN school at the Jabalia refugee camp in the northern Gaza Strip Getty Images In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinian civilians wounded during Israeli shelling in a UN school wait at the Kamal Adwan hospital in Beit Lahia Getty Images In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Damage inside a classroom caused by Israeli shelling of the Abu Hussein UN school AP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinians walk next to the collapsed minaret of a destroyed mosque in Gaza City. It was destroyed in an overnight Israeli airstrike on Tuesday EPA In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinians who lost relatives in an Israeli strike on a compound housing a UN school in Jabalia refugee camp in the northern Gaza Strip, mourn outside the Kamal Edwin hospital in Beit Lahia where victims from the attack were brought AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Smoke and fire from the explosion of an Israeli strike rise over Gaza City amid Israel's heaviest air and artillery assault in more than three weeks of Israel-Hamas fighting AP Photo In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinians who lost relatives in an Israeli strike on a compound housing a UN school in Jabalia refugee camp in the northern Gaza Strip, mourn outside the Kamal Edwin hospital in Beit Lahia AFP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Flames engulf the fuel tanks of the only power plant supplying electricity to the Gaza Strip after it was hit by overnight Israeli shelling, in the south of Gaza City Getty Images In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinians from a damaged apartment building inspect the damage to a neighboring building, the offices of the Hamas movement's Al-Aqsa satellite TV station, in Gaza City, northern Gaza Strip, destroyed by an Israeli strike AP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict An Israeli soldier prays on the Israeli side of the border with the Gaza Strip as smoke billows from a power plant following overnight Israeli shelling in the coastal Palestinian enclave. The only power plant supplying electricity to the Gaza Strip was knocked out of commission by Israeli shelling, deputy director of the energy authority in the Palestinian territory said AFP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A building within the Gaza port is seen on fire after several strikes Getty Images In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict The rubble of the house of the Hamas leader, Ismail Haniyeh,  pictured in the poster, hit by a pre-dawn Israeli strike, in Gaza City AP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Smoke rises from Tuffah neighbourhood after Israeli air strikes in the east of Gaza City. Relentless bombardment has crippled the citys infrastructure EPA In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A woman wounded in an Israeli strike is taken to hospital in Beit Lahia, Gaza Getty Images In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian man walks in front of a fire raging at the Gaza's main power plant following an overnight Israeli airstrike, south of Gaza City EPA In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Horses belonging to internally displaced Palestinians look for eatable things in the rubbish outside a UN school, which was transformed into a shelter in the Jabalia district, northern Gaza Strip EPA In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian girl poses while playing during the first day of Eid al-Fitr in a United Nations school.Muslims usually start the day by visiting cemeteries, to pay their respects to the dead, and then exchange family visits AP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinian Abir Shamaleh, left, sits next to the grave of her son Saher, a civilian according to the family, who was killed in an Israeli strike during the war, as members of the family visit a cemetery in Gaza City. Monday marked the beginning of the three-day Eid al-Fitr holiday, which caps the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan AP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict An Israeli army Merkava tank rolls along the border between Israel and the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip. The UN Security Council joined US President Barack Obama in calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, after Israel and Hamas ignored calls for a truce despite mounting civilian casualties AFP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A wounded Palestinian woman runs in the street after Israeli airstrikes in Al Tufah neighbourhood in eastern Gaza City In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian man cries after identifying the body of his loved one, killed in an Israeli strike, inside the morgue of Kamal Adwan hospital in Beit Lahiya, northern Gaza Strip In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinian Ahmed Jadallah, center, 75, prepares a body for burial at the morgue of Kamal Adwan hospital in Beit Lahiya, northern Gaza Strip In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian mother mourns over the body of her son, Abd al-Karim al-Shibari, who was killed after a UN school in the northern Beit Hanun district of the Gaza Strip was hit by an Israeli shell, at the morgue of the Kamal Adwan hospital in Beit Lahiya In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinian medics run carrying children, wounded in an Israeli strike on a compound housing a U.N. school in Beit Hanoun, in the northern Gaza Strip, into the emergency room of the Kamal Adwan hospital in Beit Lahiya In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian wounded in an Israeli strike on a compound housing a UN school in Beit Hanoun, in the northern Gaza Strip, flashes the V-sign for "Victory" as he arrives on a stretcher at the al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian helps a relative, wounded in an Israeli strike in Gaza City In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinians inspect the rubble of a destroyed house after Israeli airstrikes in Al Tufah neighbourhood in eastern Gaza City In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Members of the El Ajramy family salvage some of their belongings from their house, which was destroyed by an overnight Israeli strike in the Jebaliya refugee camp, northern Gaza Strip In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinians inspect the wreckage of a car following an Israeli air strike in Gaza City In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian helps his son who got injured when a UN school for refugees was allegedly hit by an Israeli tank shell in the Kamal Adwan hospital in Beit Lahiya, Gaza Strip In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian man carries a child, wounded in an Israeli strike on a compound housing a U.N. school in Beit Hanoun, in the northern Gaza Strip, into the emergency room of the Kamal Adwan hospital in Beit Lahiya In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinian girls cry after their father was killed in a UN-operated school after an alleged Israeli attack in Beit Hanun town, northern Gaza strip In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinian children, wounded in an Israeli strike on a compound housing a U.N. school in Beit Hanoun, in the northern Gaza Strip, cry as they lay on the floor at the emergency room of the Kamal Adwan hospital in Beit Lahiya In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian man cries over the body of his son who died when a UN school for refugees was, according to medics, hit by an Israeli tank shell in the Kamal Adwan hospital in Beit Lahiya, Gaza Strip In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian youth carries a child, wounded in an Israeli strike on a compound housing a U.N. school in Beit Hanoun, in the northern Gaza Strip, into the emergency room of the Kamal Adwan hospital in Beit Lahiya In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A pool of blood in a UN-operated school after an Israeli air strikes in Beit Hanun town, northern Gaza strip In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian medic carries a wounded injured to a treatment room of Nasser hospital, following an Israeli airstrike at their family house in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A relative of two-year old Palestinian Salma Radiya killed by shrapnel from an Israeli tank shell in the north of the Gaza Strip holds her body at the morgue of the Kamal Adwan hospital in Beit Lahia In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian man carries his father as he and others run to take cover during an Israeli air strike in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinians paramedics run for cover from Israeli air strike during their search for injured people in the damaged area in Al Shejaeiya neighbourhood, during an Israeli military operation in the east Gaza City In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinians flee during a two hour temporary ceasefire in Gaza City's Shijaiyah neighborhood In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian man holds a copy of the Koran, Islam's holy book, near a heavily damaged mosque following an Israeli military strike in Gaza city In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinian relatives of Tawfiq al -Aga, who medics said was killed in Israeli shelling, mourn during his funeral in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Red cross staff arrive to the damaged area in Al Shejaeiya neighbourhood, during an Israeli military operation in the east Gaza City In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian mother lies on the ground as she mourns the death of her son, who medics said was killed by Israeli shelling, at a hospital in Gaza City In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A relative of two-year old Palestinian Salma Radiya who was killed by shrapnel from an Israeli tank shell in the north of the Gaza Strip holds her body in the street outside the morgue of the Kamal Adwan hospital in Beit Lahia In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A mourner touches a wreath placed on the grave of fallen Israeli soldier Natan Cohen, killed during fighting in Gaza, during his funeral in the town of Modi'in, between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A mourner reacts during the funeral for Israeli soldier Natan Cohen, killed during fighting in Gaza on Tuesday, in the town of Modi'in, between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Soldiers carry the coffin of Sergeant Max Steinberg during his funeral in Jerusalem, Israel In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict The parents of Sergeant Max Steinberg grieve at his coffin during his funeral in Jerusalem, Israel In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Jewish worshipper takes part in a special prayer at the Western Wall in Jerusalem's Old City for the well-being of Israeli soldiers in Gaza In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A banner depicting the names of Palestinians killed in Israel's ongoing assault on the Gaza Strip hangs on the landmark Pigeon Rock in Beirut's Rawshe seafront In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict An Israel officer with a bird on his shoulder speaks to his soldiers after they returned from a ground offensive in the Gaza Strip, at an army deployment area near Israel's border with the besieged Palestinian territory, as the conflict entered its third week with neither side showing any sign of willingness to pull back In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Palestinian families who fled their homes from east of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip ride on a car in their way to the city of Khan Younis AP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Smoke from an Israeli strike rises over Gaza City AP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict An Israeli 155mm self-propelled howitzer fires from southern Israeli into the Gaza Strip EPA In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict The morgue attendant hands over the body to a relative of two-year-old Palestinian Lamar Radiya killed by shrapnel from an Israeli tank shell in the north of the Gaza Strip Getty Images In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict A Palestinian man, in clothes stained with the blood of his father, who medics said was killed by Israeli shelling, mourns as he disembarks an ambulance transporting his father's body, at a hospital in Khan Younis Reuters In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza conflict Israeli soldiers carry the coffin of Sgt. Max Steinberg, during his funeral at the Mount Herzel military cemetery in Jerusalem. Steinberg, a 24-year-old American citizen who grew up in Southern California's San Fernando Valley, was killed while fighting in Gaza AP In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip Palestinian paramedics carry a six-month-old baby into the Kamal Adwan hospital in Beit Lahia after he was injured in an Israeli strike in the norhtern Gaza Strip In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip A relative of Shahed Qishtah, a nine-year-old Palestinian girl who was killed in an Israeli strike while playing, left the Kamal Adwan hospital where he brought her in Beit Lahia in the norhtern Gaza Strip In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip A Palestinian child screams in pain at the Kamal Adwan hospital in Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip after she was hit by shrapnel during an Israeli military strike near her family house Getty In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip The father of a nine-year-old girl, Shahed Qishtah, leads a relative carrying her to hospital in Beit Lahia, Gaza; she died of her injuries AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip An injured Palestinian at Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir al-Balah In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip Mourning relatives of the Kelani family cry as they attend the funeral in Beit Lahiya, Gaza EPA In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip Brothers and family members of Ibrahim al-Kelani, the father and husband of a family of seven with dual Palestinian-German citizenship, attend his funeral in Beit Lahiya town in the northern Gaza Strip In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip Relatives of Palestinian Islamic Jihad militant Abduallah El-Buhasi, who medics said was killed in an Israeli air strike, mourn during his funeral in Deir El-Balah in the central Gaza Strip In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip A Palestinian woman runs to seek cover from tear gas fired by Israeli soldiers during clashes at a protest against the Israeli attacks on Gaza Strip, at Howwara checkpoint near the west bank city of Nablus In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip Smoke rises after an Israeli airstrike in Al Shejaeiya neighbourhood during a military operation in eastern Gaza City In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip A member of Palestinian Selam family is rescued under the wreckage of their house, destroyed by an Israeli airstrike within the 'Operation Protective Edge' Getty Images In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip Firemen cut Palestinians free from the wreckage of the building, in which 11 Palestinians died and others injured following an Israel assault in Rimal, in Gaza City In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip One member of Palestinian Selam family is is killed and 8 others get wounded after an Israeli airstrike, hit their hose and destroyed it within the 'Operation Protective Edge' In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip A Palestinian man is helped to flee Gaza City's Shijaiyah neighborhood, after an Israeli strike in the area In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip Palestinians inspect the rubble of the destroyed Al Aqsa Martyrs' mosque in Gaza City In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip Palestinian rescuers inspect the damage of Al-Shalam (Peace) tower, destroyed by an Israeli strike In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip A Palestinian inspects the damage of the Al-Shalam (Peace) tower, destroyed by an Israeli strike In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip A Palestinian walks inside the Al Aqsa Martyrs mosque destroyed by an Israeli strike in Gaza City In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip Palestinians look at the remains of a mosque, which police said was hit in an Israeli air strike, in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip Palestinian firefighters extinguish fire at a house destroyed by an Israeli air strike in Gaza City In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip A Palestinian man stands on the wreckage of a car as he searches the rubble of his destroyed apartment for belongings following an Israeli air strike in the center of Gaza City In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip Smoke rises as flames spread across buildings after Israeli strikes in the Shijaiyah neighborhood in Gaza City In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Northern city of Nazareth Israeli riot police arrest an Arab Israeli man during clashes that followed a protest against Israel's military offensive on the Gaza Strip, in the northern city of Nazareth In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Northern city of Nazareth Israeli riot police keep watch during clashes that followed a protest against Israel's military offensive on the Gaza Strip, in the northern city of Nazareth In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip Palestinians inspect a destroyed house after an Israeli air strike in the Gaza City In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip Palestinian medics tend to a boy who they said was wounded in an Israeli shelling, at a hospital, in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Southern Gaza Strip Palestinian medics from Gaza City's al-Shifa hospital react while body bags with the remain of ten children arrive after an Israeli air strike in Gaza City In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Sderot, Israel Israeli soldiers stand near their tank while smoke due to airstrikes and shelling rises from Gaza near Sderot In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza border Israeli soldiers of the 155mm artillery cannons unit fire towards the Gaza Strip from their position near Israel's border with the coastal Palestinian enclave In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza border An Israeli tank manoeuvres outside the northern Gaza Strip In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel-Gaza border Israeli cannon fires artillery shells from an artillery unit near the Israeli border with Gaza In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Holon, near Tel Aviv The parents of 32-year-old Israeli army captain Tzafrir Bar-Or, a commander of the Golani Brigade killed the previous day fighting a group of Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip, mourn over his coffin during his funeral in the central town of Holon, near Tel Aviv In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Holon, near Tel Aviv An Israeli female soldier mourns during the funeral of 32-year-old Israeli army captain Tzafrir Bar-Or, a commander of the Golani Brigade killed the previous day fighting a group of Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip, in the central town of Holon, near Tel Aviv In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Holon, near Tel Aviv Family members of Major Tsafrir Bar-Or mourn and cry during his funeral in Holon. Major Tsafrir was killed during the operation 'Protective Edge' In pictures: Israel-Gaza conflict Israel An Israeli soldier inspects an Israeli home allegedly hit by a Hamas rocket in Sderot

Around 150 incidents were related to schools and universities, with the most common type seeing Jewish students or teachers singled out and targeted. Death threats were sent to Jewish students in two incidents.

The CST recorded a small number of incidents at pro-Palestinian demonstrations, including speakers invoking antisemitic conspiracy theories and calling Jews impure people, and placards comparing Israel to Nazi Germany.

The report said: Most pro-Palestinian campaigning in the UK falls within legitimate political activism and is not the subject of this new report. However, several pro-Palestinian demonstrations across Britain included antisemitic placards, chantsand speeches from a minority of participants. Some of these appeared to be illegal while others used extreme political or religious language.

The conflict began on 10 May after weeks of rising Israeli-Palestinian tension in East Jerusalem that culminated in clashes at al-Aqsa.

Hamas began firing rockets after warning Israel to withdraw from the site, triggering retaliatory air strikes.

According to United Nations figures for the 11-day conflict, 256 Palestinians including 66 children were killed in Gaza.

In the West Bank, 26 Palestinians were killed and in Israel, 13 people were killed, including two children.
A mother from Hull shaved off her hair in a truly despicable scam where she pretended to have cancer, even managing to trick her husband into thinking she was unwell.

Stephanie Hunter, aged 32, lied to friends and family, telling them that she had just 18 months left to live as she was suffering from lung cancer, which she said had spread to her brain.

The mother of three even went as far as to shave her head in January 2017 and wear a headscarf, in an attempt to fool friends into believing she was ill.

She also took her husband, Jamie Wilkinson, to a funeral directors to make preparations for her funeral, a court heard.

Hull Crown Court heard that Ms Hunter had, in 2016, been working as a telesales agent for the company ResQ in Hull. She reported herself sick for work, provided a 21-day sick note and pretended that she had cancer and was in need of lung surgery.

Between January and September 2017, she never worked a full week, claiming that her treatment hadnt worked and that she needed to undergo aggressive chemotherapy for a duration of three months.

Ms Hunter told her workplace her supposed treatment dates and they responded, saying that she should only come into work if she could cope, explained David Godfrey who was prosecuting.

The Hull mother continued the ruse, telling a boss that the cancer had spread up to her neck and right lung and that she also had four tumours on her brain. She pretended that the cancer was incurable and that she only had a matter of 18 months left to live.

Meanwhile, colleagues at Ms Hunters work felt so sorry for her, that they created a JustGiving page to help send the 32-year-old on a last trip to Disneyland Paris with her three children.

Mr Godfrey explained how people, understandably, were very generous with donations.

A combination of prize draws, with local businesses donating prizes, and numerous donations meant that a total of 10,446 was raised. It was even suggested that Hull Daily Mail was contacted to raise further awareness and potentially more money for the trip, but Ms Hunter thought this was a bad idea.

Ms Hunter and family went to Disneyland Paris by first-class train and stayed in luxury, five-star accommodation during the trip.

On her return, however, her statutory sick pay was stopped when it appeared that attempts to obtain medical confirmation of her condition had failed.

Social services later became involved following concerns from a member of the public about her children. Ms Hunter eventually broke down, admitting that the entire story had been a lie.

The court heard that when her husband discovered that it had all been fictitious, he had left the family home.

Mr Godfrey explained: "As a result of his wifes lies, he left the family home. He feels great shame and embarrassment at what happened. He is now in debt. His family life has been shattered as a result of his former wifes lies."

Meanwhile, John Dunning, mitigating, said that the driving factor for Ms Hunters actions was a desire for attention

He said : "Once a lie starts and becomes established, it has a life, it seems, of its own.

"By the time it came before Hull County Court, that lie was so entrenched that it would have been almost impossible for her to have resiled from it.

"All of this offending must be seen through that prism. She continued the lie and she took actions to support that lie.

"So we have the situation where peoples good nature has been abused, where they will feel that their charity, their willingness to give, has been taken advantage of and they, no doubt, themselves will feel particularly disillusioned and will feel a degree of disappointment, if not anger, with somebody who was a colleague."

Ms Hunter admitted to fraud and to perverting the course of justice, having also used her fake cancer diagnosis to try and avoid possible eviction and rent arrears.

She said that she regretted her behaviour, saying: "I never want to put myself in this position again."

Ms Hunter had no previous convictions but a psychiatrist believed that she has an emotionally unstable personality.

Judge John Thackray QC said: "Peoples kindness and charitable nature has been completely abused. It prevents people making genuine charitable donations in the future."

The judge went on to say: Your lies and conduct were truly despicable.

"Offending like this does undermine public confidence and deters people from making charitable donations, he added.

"You will undoubtedly have eroded trust going forward of those whom you conned and those who will be aware of this case to the detriment of genuine cancer victims."
The most valuable and rare stamp in the world is returning to Britain permanently for the first time in 143 years.

The British Guiana 1c Magenta (1856), which has been described as the Mona Lisa of the stamp world, was bought for 6.2 million by rare stamp dealers Stanley Gibbons at auction last month.

The stamp has been held in collections around the world, and has broken world records for a single stamp auction price each of the last four times it has been sold.

Now it will go on display at the Stanley Gibbons flagship shop in central London.

The company said that gram for gram, the stamp is around 2.5 million times more valuable than 24-carat gold.

In New York on Wednesday, armed guards were due to collect the 29mm x 26mm sliver of paper from a vault at the headquarters of Sothebys auction house.

It was then driven in an armoured van to the airport, and was accompanied by two people on a flight to Heathrow.

It is expected to be driven in an armoured vehicle to the Stanley Gibbons showroom, where it will be stored in a vault before going on display in a specially commissioned, zero-oxygen frame, at no more than 21C.

The octagonal stamp features a three-masted sailing ship. It also has the Latin phrase Damus Petimus Que Vicissim, which translates to we give and expect in return and served as the motto for British Guiana  now Guyana.

The company Stanley Gibbons said it is drawing up plans to make the stamp available to collectors through a shared ownership type scheme, that will allow any one to join the club.

The magenta side of the stamp, which says British Guiana and Damus Petimus Que Vicissim (PA)

Graham Shircore, chief executive of Stanley Gibbons, said: The British Guiana 1c Magenta really is the Holy Grail of philately.

Its truly one of a kind, and were delighted to be welcoming it back on to British soil where we hope it will remain.

In the coming weeks we look forward to announcing bold plans, which will allow everyone to own their own piece of its marvellous history.

This isnt just for wealthy collectors. We are developing a pricing model that will allow anyone to join the club and look forward to announcing more details soon.

The stamp had been on display at the Smithsonian National Postal Museum in Washington DC, on loan from its former owner, the US shoe designer Stuart Weitzman.

Its previous 12 owners include the French government, and philanthropist John du Pont, whose murder of the US Olympic Gold Medallist David Schultz was the subject of the 2014 movie Foxcatcher after he died in prison in 2010.

The one-cent stamp is the only survivor of a small batch printed in British Guiana, on the northern coast of South America.

It went into circulation in 1856, when a shipment of stamps was delayed from London and the colonys postmaster asked printers to make three types of temporary stamp until the delivery arrived.

The postmaster then ordered the temporary stamps to be taken out of circulation, but one of the stamps survived.

It was used to deliver a newspaper, then lay forgotten until 1873 when Scottish schoolboy Louis Vernon Vaughan, who lived in the Demerara region of Guyana, found it amongst his uncles letters.

He then sold it for six shillings to local collector and barrister Neil Ross McKinnon.

Since 1873, each of the former owners has marked the back of the stamp, starting with Philipp von Ferrary  a French philatelist who is believed to have had the most complete worldwide collection of stamps that has ever existed.
Text messages will be sent to 650,000 people this week encouraging them to bring forward their second Covid-19 jabs.

The drive to speed up the countrys vaccine rollout comes shortly ahead of the lifting of coronavirus restrictions on Monday.

So far, more than 29 million people in England have received both doses, while a further 9 million people have had their first shot.

Earlier this year, the recommended waiting time between injections was 12 weeks, but this has been lowered to eight weeks in all age groups.

Since mid-May, more than 2.5 million people have rescheduled their second vaccine appointments for an earlier date.

Most of these rebookings were made by people over the age of 40, as the government only advised younger adults to have their jabs eight weeks apart on 5 July.

This weeks text invitations will include a link to the relevant NHS website, allowing people to book in their final vaccinations sooner than expected.

Those who cannot go online can rearrange their bookings by calling the health service on 119.

Sir Keith Willett, the NHS lead for vaccinations, praised health workers for their hard work in fully vaccinating two-thirds of Englands adult population.

He urged others to protect themselves and their local communities by taking up the NHS offer as soon as possible.

As we approach 19 July, there has never been a more important time to get jabbed and it has never been easier  from pop-up sites in the community to walk-in centres, NHS staff are going to great lengths to ensure vaccines are as convenient as possible, he added.

Sajid Javid, the health secretary, also encouraged people to have their second jabs eight weeks after their first, saying that it would allow the population to enjoy the freedoms weve missed.

Two doses of a Covid-19 vaccine provide up to 96 per cent protection against serious illness and hospitalisation from the virus, so it is absolutely crucial everybody gets both doses, he said.

Although some vaccine centres have been giving second injections to people just three weeks after they received their first, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has said an eight week gap is better, as it offers more protection against the virus.

Professor Anthony Harnden, deputy chair of the JCVI, told Times Radio on Wednesday that the data shows that there is a lower vaccine efficacy against symptomatic disease with shorter intervals compared to longer intervals.
Zimbabwean nationals who have been in the UK for decades and have British children are being rounded up for removal on a charter flight to Harare next week, The Independent can reveal.

Ministers are being urged to halt the flight after it emerged over a dozen people from Zimbabwe have been detained this month, and many of them issued deportation orders for 21 July.

One man due to be deported, Bryan Mucheriwa, who has been in the UK for 20 years and has three British children, told The Independent he felt frightened at the prospect of returning to his home country.

The Halifax resident, who first claimed asylum in the early 2000s on the basis that he faced political persecution in Zimbabwe because he had opposed the government, but has since been refused a number of times, had been signing on with the Home Office every two weeks.

I feel so afraid. The Home Office called me last year to verify my identity, but they used someone from the government in Zimbabwe to confirm my identity. Even if I tried to relocate in Zimbabwe, someone in the government has all my information, he said.

How can I cope there? Ill be in danger. And if Im sent back there, I dont know when Ill see my kids again.

The Zimbabwe national, who has not been eligible to work or receive state support for most of his time in the UK, spent a year in prison a decade ago for drug offences, which he says he committed because he needed to put food on the table.

Explaining that one of his sons has cancer, while another has heart problems, Mr Mucheriwa added: It would be the worst thing for me to leave my family here. I dont think my kids would ever forgive me.

His wife, Chenayi Mucheriwa, who has refugee status, said immigration officials came to the house on Tuesday and started asking for her husband.

I felt really scared. I felt threatened. They were saying: Wheres Bryan? They were saying I was hiding him somewhere. I didnt know what was happening, she told The Independent.

I wasnt expecting anything of that kind to happen. He hasnt done anything. Theres so much going through my mind now. I cant cope. Im so worried.

He will be in danger. He was heavily involved in opposition politics when he was there and while he has been in the UK. People are still disappearing in Zimbabwe. Its not safe for him there.

A petition calling for the deportations to Zimbabwe to be stopped, signed by nine organisations including the Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants (JCWI) and Bail for Immigration Detainees, states that the detainees could face imminent danger if they are removed to Zimbabwe.

It states that since president Emmerson Mnangagwa replaced Robert Mugabe following the military coup in November 2017, he had outperformed his predecessor in persecuting perceived enemies of the state.

The petition also raises concern about the lack of access to legal representation for deportees before the removal flight.

The clandestine and sinister nature of the operation, and the speed at which it is being executed, is designed to give anyone scheduled for removal little to no chance of access to legal representation, it states.

Bella Sankey, director at Detention Action, said: All mass expulsions are unjust; the system becomes overwhelmed, preventing people from accessing potentially life-saving legal advice. But our unfair deportation laws compound this injustice.

One of the people Detention Action is supporting has lived in the UK since he was five years old. If Black Lives Matter how can Priti Patel deport him from the only country he calls home?

Minnie Rahman, of JCWI, said: Right now, the government should be looking at measures to protect the public from true harms, like the soaring rate of Covid infections.

Instead theyre choosing to prioritise the deportation of people whove made the UK their home, who have families and futures here, and who would face imminent danger in Zimbabwe  a place where we know atrocious human rights abuses are commonplace.

The Home Office must stop exiling people to countries where they face mortal danger  no-ones life should be put at risk because they dont have the right piece of paper.

A Home Office spokesperson said it did not comment on operational matters, but added: Foreign criminals who abuse our hospitality should be in no doubt of our determination to deport them.

Any foreign national who is convicted of a crime and given a prison sentence is considered for deportation at the earliest opportunity, and since January 2019 we have removed 7,495 foreign national offenders.

They said each individual assessment was made against the background of the latest available country of origin information and any relevant caselaw, and that all detainees were advised of their right to legal representation and how they could arrange this within 24 hours of their arrival at a removal centre, with legal aid representation available.
Economists are warning that Boris Johnsons much-heralded levelling up agenda must amount to more than quick-fix improvements to disadvantaged areas of the Midlands and north of England if it is to make an impression on the UKs entrenched social inequalities.

The prime minister will on Thursday attempt to put some flesh on the bones of his oft-repeated slogan, using a speech in the West Midlands to say that he aims to restore a sense of pride in their community among residents of areas that have felt left-behind for decades.

But with MP Neil OBrien appointed to advise Mr Johnson on the strategy only 10 weeks ago and firm proposals not not expected until a white paper in the autumn, the speech is expected to be light on firm announcements and heavy on rhetoric.

Extracts released by Downing Street ahead of the speech said that Mr Johnson will say that the drive to boost left-behind areas will also relieve pressure on parts of the UK where an over-heating economy has delivered sky-high housing costs, overcrowding and congested transport systems.

But he will also insist that levelling up the Midlands and north will not mean levelling down in the south of England. And, following the by-election loss of Chesham & Amersham driven in part by a voter revolt against planning reforms, he will promise that the agenda will not mean leafy suburbs and villages being engulfed by new housing development.

We dont want to decapitate the tall poppies, Mr Johnson will say. We dont think you can make the poor parts of the country richer by making the rich parts poorer.

Levelling up is not a jam-spreading operation. Its not robbing Peter to pay Paul. Its not zero-sum, its win-win.

Mr Johnson will argue that previous governments have turbo-charged London and the southeast by concentrating investment in areas which were already doing well economically.

By turbo-charging those areas  especially in London and the southeast  you drive prices even higher and you force more and more people to move to the same expensive areas, he will say.

And the result is that their commutes are longer, their trains are more crowded, they have less time with their kids. They worry at the same time that the younger generation wont be able to get a home and that their leafy suburb or village will be engulfed by new housing development but without the infrastructure to go with it.

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Setting out the metric by which he wants his agenda to be judged, he will say: We will have made progress in levelling up when we have begun to raise living standards, spread opportunity, improved our public services and restored peoples sense of pride in their community.

But research economist Ben Zaranko, of the Institute for Fiscal Studies, told The Independent that change on this scale could take decades to materialise.

The UK is one of the more regionally unequal countries in the industrial world, perhaps the most unequal, he said. The scale of the challenge is huge and it is not something you can just make a big speech on, throw some money around and expect change overnight.

There are things the prime minister can do in the short term to make places nicer to live in  renovating high streets, building facilities and so on. That can be achieved relatively quickly with centralised pots of money like the Towns Fund.

But that stuff isnt going to deal with the deeper, more structural inequalities that are driving differential living standards across the country. Those are things that I dont think you can make much progress on in the course of a parliament. Its deep-seated economic changes in areas like education, skills training, transport connectivity and so on which could take decades to complete.

Research suggested that the perception that certain areas had been left behind was driven in part by austerity imposed over the past decade of Tory-led governments, he said.

The prime ministers talk about levelling up does jar a little in that context, he said.

Spending by local authorities on cultural facilities has fallen by about 50 per cent in real terms since 2010, spending on planning by 60 per cent. Its all very well him saying that hes going to turn the taps on, but part of the reason why these things are an issue is because they have been squeezed for the last decade.

The director of the Centre for Progressive Policy, Charlotte Alldritt, said that recent policy decisions  like the allocation of just 1.4bn to an educational catch-up programme costed at 15bn by the man appointed to devise it  cast doubt on whether Mr Johnson was committed to the long haul of spreading equality.

The scale of the challenge is vast, Ms Alldritt told The Independent. This has been decades in the making. We have very deep and entrenched health, wealth, income and education inequalities in our society which hold back the economy and hold back peoples life chances.

The prime minister could start looking at the foundations for addressing this, but I dont think he will. I think the government is very much motivated by generating clear tangible results over the next 18 months before a spring 2023 election, which means quick wins on things like high streets and leisure facilities.

Tackling the fundamental issues on a scale which people would actually notice would be a very, very difficult task which would take much longer. Im expecting to see a fragmented approach that doesnt live up to the scale of the challenge. The levelling up agenda does have potential, but unless it is really gripped more strategically, it will fall short.
Boris Johnsons government has been warned that Britains factories are on the verge of shutting because of the havoc caused by the growing army of staff told to self-isolate by the NHS Covid-19 app.

Unite said hundreds of employees are off work at several major factory sites, especially in the automotive sector, after being pinged as a Covid contact by the app.

Latest figures from the NHS show that more than 500,000 alerts were sent to users of the app in the week to 7 July  a rise of almost 50 per cent on the previous week and the highest figure so far.

A senior minister said the government was concerned by the number of people off work, but suggested a planned tweaking to the apps sensitivity  to reduce the number of people alerted  would not happen for several weeks yet.

Were going to give further thought to how [the app] is a proportionate response, said communities secretary Robert Jenrick on Thursday. The government is going to be setting out its plans in the coming weeks.

Unite said some factories are struggling to operate because of app-enforced absences, saying it had been told by one major engine supplier that delays to orders are so severe that work may be permanently moved to China.

The union said the government should not wait until 16 August to allow fully vaccinated adults to avoid self-isolation  warning that failure to make changes before 19 July would lead to mass deletion of the app.

Unites assistant general secretary Steve Turner said: No one is advocating for coronavirus controls to go out the window  But the reports Unite is receiving from our members and their employers are extremely worrying.

The union leader said: It is not an exaggeration to say factories are on the verge of shutting and that at some sites hundreds of staff are off work.

Mr Turner added: It is clear that something has to be done in time for 19 July, or else people will simply start deleting the app en masse to avoid isolation notices. There will be public health consequences if test and trace becomes seen as a nuisance.

Reports suggest as many as 700 workers were self-isolating at Nissans factory in Sunderland. The car giant would not confirm the number, but said there were serious staff shortages at its biggest UK plant.

Production in certain areas of the plant has been adjusted as we manage a number of staff being required to self-isolate following close contact with Covid-19, a spokesman said.

Stephen Phipson, chief executive of Make UK, the body representing UK manufacturers, said that in some cases, up to 20 per cent of the workforce is now isolating. Meanwhile, one in five workers in retail and hospitality is estimated to be self-isolating.

The government has rejected calls to bring forward planned changes to self-isolation rules from 16 August to 19 July. But there were hopes the sensitivity of the app could be quickly tuned to reduce the number of alerts sent out.

However, it understood that tweaks to how close and how long a person has to be in close contact with someone with Covid before the app pings are still several weeks away.

Officials are estimating how many extra infections could result if fewer people are asked by the app to isolate, according to The Times.

NHS leaders have pleaded with ministers to consider a special exemption for health service staff from current self-isolation rules, with some hospitals experiencing serious staff shortages.

Saffron Cordery, deputy chief executive at NHS Providers, told The Independent last week that ministers should create an opt-out for health workers as soon as possible to allow staff to ignore the app alerts.

About one in five adults in the UK have deleted the Covid-19 app from their phone, according to a poll by Savanta ComRes. The survey also found that more than a third of young people, aged between 18 and 34, have deleted the app.

A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care said the sensitivity of the app was under constant review. The app is doing exactly what it was designed to do  informing close contacts of someone who has tested positive for Covid-19 that they are at risk and advising them to isolate.

As cases continue rising it is vital people are aware of their personal risk so they can make informed decisions on their behaviour to protect those around them.
The British governments flagship levelling-up policy risks falling far short of whats required, economists have warned.

The reprimand comes after prime minister Boris Johnson launched his key policy with a speech on Thursday, ahead of a detailed policy plan expected in the autumn.

So far, the figures and timeline attached to the effort are dwarfed by the true funding and long-term view required for meaningful results, economists and policy experts told The Independent.

Its a matter of decades and trillions not years and billions, said Torsten Bell, chief executive of the Resolution Foundation, a think tank. Mr Bell said the example of Germany, which Mr Johnson noted in his speech, underscored the shortfalls in the UK effort so far.

Germany has succeeded in levelling up where we have not, Mr Johnson said.

After the fall of the Berlin wall, Germany, the largest economy in Europe, invested more than two trillion euro in trying to make the former communist East as prosperous as the West of the country. Despite the vast effort, there are still significant regional inequalities in the country.

Every eastern region lags even the least productive region in the west, according to the Germanys ministry for the economy, which does an annual examination of the impact of unification. In 2018, unemployment was still more than two percentage points higher in east Germany, at 6.9 per cent than in the west, at 4.8 per cent.

Britains levelling-up effort also risks falling prey to a politically led rather than economically sound approach, experts warned. Offering local councils in marginal constituencies the chance to bid for a few millions of pounds each, such as the governments Freeports programme and Town Deals, would have little or no meaningful impact on improving productivity in poorer regions, they said.

You have to look at where this government was voted in: the gains in the midlands and the north were outside the main cities, said Andrew Carter, chief executive of the Centre for Cities, a think tank. So far thats where cash has been targeted, at towns rather than cities, he said.

The politics of this take you in one direction. The reality takes you in another, to the big urban areas [such as Manchester and Birmingham], he said.

Instead of infrastructure projects that might only relocate rather than create high value jobs, the government would be better off repairing the adult education sector, said Ian Mulhern, executive director of UK policy and chief economist at the Tony Blair Institute.

He added that the governments figures fell far short of what would be required for its workforce to be well-suited to the needs of a modern, highly productive economy.

It doesnt seem enough to put a few million back in the pot, Mr Mulhern said. It doesnt even take us back to where we were 10 years ago.

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Since the 2000s, there have been severe cuts to spending on adult education. Spending is now almost two-thirds less in real terms than in 2003-4 and around 50 per cent lower than in 2009-10 according to figures from the Institute for Fiscal Studies 2020 annual report on education funding.

Other countries, such as Switzerland, which perform well on scores of relative economic wellbeing do so because of extreme devolution, allowing their Cantons significant autonomy, said Matthew Whittaker, chief executive of Pro Bono Economics. This has a profound impact on relations between local businesses and communities, Mr Whittaker said.

Companies in Switzerland would see it as their civic duty to invest in local skills. Something we dont do so much in the UK, he said.

A far greater effort to give decision making over large sums was required to allow cities and regions to fix their particular economic problems with bespoke solutions, Whittaker said. Birmingham has relatively low employment rates, whereas Manchester has a large gap between relative wealth and Bristols locals are priced out of the housing market.

We all want a new bridge where that helps you get over a river, said Mr Whittaker. But taking a cookie-cutter approach with a narrow focus by central government misses a trick, he said.

The prime minister said he would avoid a one size fits all template, but stopped short of explaining how this would be achieved. Instead, he said he wanted others to offer a plan to government for local engagement to make levelling up work admitting that central government had crushed local government in the past because municipal socialist governments were bankrupting cities.

Ultimately, three things need to shift by the autumn if levelling-up is to be taken more seriously, and amount to more than rhetoric, economists believe.

The quantum of cash, the longevity of the commitment, and the flex given to local government, Mr Carter said.
Two residential properties in the south of England have been searched by the Information Commissioners Office after CCTV images of Matt Hancock embracing an aide in his Whitehall office were leaked.

The organisation said personal computer equipment and electronic devices at the addresses were seized as part of its probe into alleged breaches of the Data Protection Act.

Steve Eckersley, director of investigations at the Information Commissioners Office (ICO), said: Its vital that all people, which includes the employees of government departments and members of the public who interact with them, have trust and confidence in the protection of their personal data.

In these circumstances, the ICO aims to react swiftly and effectively to investigate where there is a risk that other people may have unlawfully obtained personal data.

We have an ongoing investigation and will not be commenting further until it is concluded.

The investigation was launched in response to CCTV images from Mr Hancocks office being leaked to The Sun newspaper, which published them last month.

The images show the then health secretary checking that the corridor outside the office is clear before closing the door and embracing and kissing his taxpayer-funded adviser Gina Coladangelo.

The CCTV footage was reportedly filmed on 6 May, when Englands law banned indoor social gatherings of people from different households. Guidance also urged people to stay two metres apart and avoid face to face contact.

The public backlash over the scandal led to Mr Hancock standing down and being replaced by former chancellor Sajid Javid as health secretary.

The Metropolitan Police said that it has not launched a criminal investigation as at this time, it remains a matter for the relevant government department.

Marc Jones, the Conservative police crime commissioner (PCC) of Lincolnshire, said that there should be a police investigation launched into the leaking of the images if an offence had been committed.

The chair of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners also said at a press conference on Thursday: Regardless of what motivated people to do a thing we are all subject to the same laws.

Kim McGuinness, the Labour PCC of Northumbria, said: Its an interesting case and it is thorny, because the public interest is on that affair, but the fact is someone has breached security in what should be a secure place.

The pair leaving Downing Street less than a week before the CCTV footage was filmed (Getty Images)

It has been reported that Mr Hancock and Ms Coladangelo have both left their family homes since their affair was exposed.

Mr Hancock has three children with his wife Martha, an oestopath. Ms Coladangelo has three children with her husband Oliver Tress, owner of high street retailer Oliver Bonas  where she had worked as the marketing and communications director.

Ms Coladangelo, previously a director at lobbying firm Luther Pendragon, had met the West Suffolk Conservative MP at Oxford University, where they became close friends over a shared passion for student radio.

In September last year, she was handed a 15,000-a-year role as non-executive director at the Department for Health and Social Care. There is no public record of the appointment, which was made during the Covid-19 pandemic, but it is listed on her LinkedIn page.

Mr Hancock has been accused of cronyism on a number of occasions over his personal links with businesses and individuals that were awarded NHS contracts during the pandemic.

Earlier this year, the High Court found Mr Hancock had acted unlawfully by awarding contracts to companies without tender and then not publishing their details.

Mr Hancocks alleged use of a personal email account to conduct government business has raised transparency concerns.
South Africans took the law into their own hands on Wednesday as deadly violence which has seen more than 70 people killed and widespread looting across the country in the past few days continued.

In signs of a growing public backlash, anxious and scared residents in some areas armed themselves as vigilantes to form road blocks or scare looters away, despite the presence of armed police and soldiers on the streets.

Other residents blocked entrances to malls and turned suspected rioters over to the police in an attempt to stem the violence gripping the country.

In Vosloorus, southern Johannesburg, minibus taxi operators, many of whom have guns, fired bullets into the air to scare off looters.

We cant just allow people from nowhere to come and loot here, said Paul Magolego, Vosloorus taxi association spokesperson, adding that taxi drivers had had no business since Monday because of the unrest.

Citizens armed with guns, many from South Africas white minority, blocked off streets to prevent further plundering, in Durban, reported Reuters. Some rich Durban residents chartered small planes and helicopters out of the city.

The countrys police minister, Bheki Cele, said he was fine with people helping the authorities but not if they turned to violence.

The problem starts when they go for parallel structures; they go themselves and shoot the people and all that, he said.

As many as 72 people have been killed in violence and rioting in South Africa which erupted after the jailing of the former president Jacob Zuma last week after he failed to appear at a corruption inquiry. More than 1,200 people have been arrested.

Looters have ransacked shops and businesses, and stopped a refinery from working on Wednesday, ignoring calls by security officials to stop. Supporters of the ex-president have also blockaded roads, disrupting major supply chains.

Footage even emerged of people rushing to save a toddler trapped inside a Durban department store which had been looted and then set on fire.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called the violence unprecedented.

There was widespread looting in several cities, from Zumas home in KwaZulu-Natal province to Johannesburg and the surrounding Gauteng province.

This time is bad. We arent safe to walk around the streets. Looters are even looting from each other, locals in Johannesburg told South Africas TimesLive news site.

Though triggered by Zumas imprisonment, the unrest apears to reflect growing frustration at failures by the ruling African National Congress to address inequality decades after the end of white minority rule in 1994 ushered in democracy.

Its not about Zuma, its about poverty, a man who gave his name as Elijah said, as soldiers confiscated stolen items from his house in Alexandra.

I grabbed things I could take like those cold drinks and some paint. I guess the real reason is because we actually have nothing.

Video footage on Wednesday showed the looting of shops spreading to the countys biggest township Soweto, the former home of Nelson Mandela, and the port city of Durban.

Durban appears to have suffered heavily from the escalation of chaos. Footage on social media showed Lenmed hospital, located in the northern section of the city, in flames.

Residents of Soweto shout slogans in front of Maponya Mall (AFP/Getty)

The mayor of Ethekwini, a municipality that includes Durban, estimated that 15 billion rand (almost 1bn) had been lost in damage to property and as much again in loss of stock.

In several places across the country, ATMs, restaurants, stores selling alcohol and clothing shops were all left empty.

Covid-19 has hit the South African economy badly, with GDP plummeting by about five per cent by the end of 2020. According to the countrys statistics agency, unemployment stood at a staggeringly high level of 32.6 per cent in the first quarter of 2021.

The National Hospital Network (NHN), representing 241 public hospitals already under strain from Africas worst Covid-19 epidemic, said it was running out of oxygen and drugs, most of which are imported through Durban, as well as food.

Zuma, 79, was sentenced last month for defying a court order to give evidence at an inquiry investigating high-level looting during his nine years in office until 2018.

He has pleaded not guilty in a separate case on charges including corruption, fraud, racketeering and money laundering.
The death toll in the violence which has engulfed South Africa in the past few days climbed above 100 on Thursday as the army begun deploying 25,000 troops on the streets to assist police.

At least 117 people have been killed in the violence, authorities said, in week-long violence sparked by the imprisonment of former President Jacob Zuma.

The show of force by the army was the largest deployment of soldiers since the end of white minority rule in 1994. The South African National Defence Force has also called up all of its reserve force of 12,000 troops. Trucks, armoured personnel carriers and helicopters were used to transport soldiers to trouble spots in the Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal provinces.

A convoy of more than a dozen carriers brought soldiers into Gauteng province, South Africas most populous, which includes the largest city, Johannesburg, and the capital, Pretoria.

The violence erupted last week after Zuma began serving a 15-month sentence for contempt of court for refusing to comply with a court order to testify at a state-backed inquiry investigating allegations of corruption while he was president from 2009 to 2018.

Despite the climb in the death count, the armed patrols appear to have succeeded in bringing stability to Gauteng. Many of those killed were trampled in chaotic stampedes when shops were being looted, according to police, said Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, acting minister in the presidency.

The unrest, however, continued in KwaZulu-Natal province where several factories and warehouses smoldered after being targeted in arson attacks.

More than 2,200 people have been arrested for theft and vandalism, Mr Ntshavheni added.

Police said they had discovered more than 10,000 rounds of ammunition in Durban on Wednesday night, which Minister of Police Bheki Cele said belonged to people who were instigating the violent riots in the province.
A Black woman has fundraised more than $100,000 for legal fees, after a so-called Victorias Secret Karen apparently charged at her and chased her around the store before calling police.

Nigerian American Ijeoma Ukenta was visiting a Victorias Secret store in a New Jersey mall when she was allegedly harassed by white shopper Abigail Elphick.

Ms Ukenta began filming mid-way through the altercation, and later posted the footage on YouTube, in a series called Karen Goes Crazy.

Karen is a slang term meaning a white, middle-class woman who weaponises their relative privilege against people of colour.

According to Insider, Ms Ukenta says she was shopping for underwear when Ms Elphick started browsing uncomfortably close to her, so she asked her to "back up. Instead, Ms Elphick reported Ms Ukenta to a Victorias Secret employee for threatening her.

The distressing recording taken by Ms Ukenta then appears to show Ms Elphick rushing at her, screaming, asking not to be filmed, and chasing Ms Ukenta around the shop. She later voluntarily left the store and was not arrested or charged.

Subsequent clips show Ms Ukenta attempting unsuccessfully to get assistance from security guards and police. The videos have since gone viral, hitting a nerve with many who say the incident is a typical example of double-standards applied because of race.

In what appears to be the police report, says Insider, the woman said she was in the "wrong" and that she had a panic attack after realizing Ms Ukenta was recording her.

In her GoFundMe page, Ms Ukenta explains why the authorities response to the situation was inadequate.

"I was treated like it was 1920 in Short Hills Mall. I was assaulted and harassed by a white woman and nothing was done by the security nor the police."

She continues: "Im looking to hire me an excellent attorney who can help me bring light to this wrong."

Her initial goal was $20,000 but supporters have raised more than $100,000 already.

One supporter wrote on her page: Im so sorry that you have had to spend your time and energy battling the injustice you suffered. You deserve to be treated with the utmost dignity and respect. Props to you for standing up for your rights. I support you 100%.

Victorias Secret has issued a response to the videos, saying in a statement: The video taken in our store is unsettling and we have initiated a full investigation. Our associates followed our protocols and immediately called our Emergency Operations Centre as well as mall security for support during the altercation between our customers.
A homoeopathic doctor was arrested on Wednesday for allegedly making fake Covid-19 vaccination cards and selling homeoprophylaxis immunisation pellets.

Juli Mazi, 41, from Napa, California, was charged with one count of false statements, related to health care matters and one count of wire fraud. This is the first case of criminal fraud relating to homeopathic immunisations and fake vaccine cards for Covid-19.

An official complaint was made against Ms Mazi in April, when she was accused of selling pellets that she falsely claimed contained the Covid-19 virus  supposedly to provoke an antibody response in the immune system. After selling the pellets, Ms Mazi is accused of sending a Covid-19 vaccination record card with the Modena vaccine listed on it.

Ms Mazi then allegedly asked the individual who had bought the pellets to mark their vaccination record cards to falsely state that they received a vaccine on the same date that they took the Covid-19 pellets.

This defendant allegedly defrauded and endangered the public by preying on fears and spreading misinformation about FDA-authorised vaccinations, while also peddling fake treatments that put peoples lives at risk, said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco in a statement.

Even worse, the defendant allegedly created counterfeit Covid-19 vaccination cards and instructed her customers to falsely mark that they had received a vaccine, allowing them to circumvent efforts to contain the spread of the disease.

Ms Mazi allegedly exploited vaccine concerns to sell her Covid-19 remedies by falsely claiming that the FDA-authorised Covid-19 vaccines contained toxic ingredients. She also allegedly stated the pellets were safe for children and babies and the dose is actually the same for babies.

Spreading inaccurate or false medical information about Covid-19 for personal gain, as the complaint alleges, is dangerous and only seeds scepticism among the public, said the agent in charge of the investigation, Craig D Fair from FBIs San Francisco Field Office.

On her website, Ms Mazi describes herself as a licensed primary care doctor whose aim and passion is to empower her patients to heal. She also states that she holds deep respect for everyones innate ability to discover and find a path to their own well being.

The Independent has reached out to Ms Mazi for comment on the above incident.

The FBI will continue to investigate those fraudulently profiting from spreading misinformation. Those with information on attempted fraud involving Covid -19 can report it to the Department of Justices National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline.
With the post-pandemic great resignation upon us, and millions of Americans resigning their jobs after 18 months of hunkering down in fear and uncertainty, what can employers learn from this shift in the world of work?

Having studied the dynamic between organisations and their employees, specifically relating to why people leave their jobs, Anthony Klotz, professor of management at the Mays Business School at Texas A&M University, offered some advice to companies in a conversation with The Independent.

Spend more time thinking about why employees leave

Generally speaking, employers overlook what Mr Klotz describes as the employee offboarding process, which he sees as an excellent opportunity to learn about how to improve an organisation.

When you bring new employees into an organisation, you spend tons of time, energy, and resources onboarding them. When people leave an organisation, any process becomes something of an afterthought, he notes.

It can be quite difficult because as a manager or a company, when an employee says theyre quitting, it sort of feels like getting dumped by a significant other. All these negative emotions come into your mind and you just want to move past them as fast as possible, says Mr Klotz.

He explains that you have to understand the real reason the person is quitting.

Just like in a romantic relationship, when somebody breaks up with us, they often say its not you, its me. Well, employees, when theyre quitting, say the same thing. Organisations need to be a little bit more scientific in finding out the real reason, he says.

Instead of simply having an exit interview where they ask the employee why theyre leaving, he suggests talking to their coworkers and friends at the company who will know their real motivation, which could be useful in making positive changes.

Theres a good chance theyll share that with their boss, and if they dont, they will likely give you some of the ways in which they think the organisation could be improved, says Mr Klotz. Its a great chance to kind of rehire your stayers by talking to them in the wake of someone else leaving.

Bosses can find out how they might do better, and how the employees that remain can play a part in making that happen.

Track the ways in which employees leave

From an organisational standpoint, Mr Klotz suggests that human resources leaders should put more effort into tracking the ways in which employees leave.

He explains that you may find employees leaving in a positive way from one department in a company, which is a shame, but they are leaving in a way that minimises damage and eases any transition. This reflects well on part of the organisation.

However, another department may also have people quitting, but theyre walking off the job, theyre ghosting, and theyre burning bridges on the way out. You may be tempted to say that they are bad employees and the people who left positively are good, says the professor.

My research suggests otherwise. When you have people who burn bridges on the way out, a reason that theyre doing that is that theyre getting back at a bad manager or theyre getting even for unfair treatment from the company.

Organisations can learn from this by looking at these two ways in which people resign. If it is a negative experience then that may be a red flag, possibly signalling that theres abusive supervision going on or that there are unfair practices.

An organisation is going to keep losing people in this negative way until they solve the root cause, says Mr Klotz. What do you think caused them to walk off the job? Its not that theyre a bad person. Its something in the company.

Think about the counteroffer and beyond

Organisations should consider what their counteroffer policy is when someone who is considered a top performer or a genuinely talented asset decides to leave.

While you may be able to convince some to stay through job crafting  working out how to customise a role for the benefit of the employee  or simply better remuneration, those that are set on leaving should be treated as well as possible.

This speaks in part to the phenomenon of boomerang employment in which now that it is much less taboo for people to leave jobs, it is also not uncommon to return to a previous employer.

From the organisations perspective, you also may want to keep a connection with a talented individual.

Its kind of cool that more and more companies are doing this, but they are planning the best way for employees to exit the organisation, explains Mr Klotz. Imagine, if you will, an employee quitting and its one of your best performers and you cant get them to stay with a counteroffer. And you say to them, listen, Im going to give you a one-year leave of absence, or six months or two years, so if you go to whatever youre doing next and you dont like it, you can come right back and your benefits and your job and everything are right here for you.

More and more companies are then regularly touching base with former employees to see how things are panning out for them and to let them know there is still interest. Some actively encourage associations of former employees to get together every few months.

Mr Klotz notes that the consulting industry led the way on this because they realised that people who left may someday become their clients and it was in the companys interest to make sure they left on good terms.

More organisations could learn from this because, again, this ties back into boomerang employment  when youre hiring employees, whats really hard to predict is how well they will perform, explains Mr Klotz. When hiring employees that used to work for you, you dont have that question. You have a documented record of what kind of performer they are.

He adds: This is such a rich area from which to recruit people. Why not cultivate a group of former employees that become part of your recruiting pool in the future?

While companies face challenges with employee retention and recruitment during the great resignation, employees must think seriously before leaving an organisation. Professor Klotz also shared some thoughts with The Independent about three things you should consider before taking that leap.
A man has been beaten and shot in front of his wife and children by Cuban government forces, according to video circulating on social media.

A video apparently recording the violence is circulating on social media, showing a raid on the home in Cardenas, east of Havana. According to The Miami Herald, Marbely Vasquez said security officers broke into her home on Tuesday morning and shot her husband, Daniel Cardenas Diaz, 34.

The footage shows her shouting My children are here, my children, my children, my children as officers break down a door.

Armed special forces agents and a dog force their way into the home, and moments later, the clip shows a pool of blood on the floor of the living room of the house. The shooting is not recorded.

Ms Vasquez said her husband was beaten and shot at least once. Then, she said, [the agents] entered my bedroom when I was with my children.

She has two-year-old twins and a 12-year-old boy, according to The Miami Herald.

Mr Cardenas was taken to Santa Marta police station in Varadero, where his cousin Orlando Leon says he is being held incommunicado.

A Cuban news report on Wednesday evening cast doubt on the depiction of events on the video, and accused Mr Cardenas of breaking into a government store. It showed him on camera being interrogated by police.

Ms Vasquez says Mr Cardenas had been at the anti-government demonstrations at the weekend that took place across Cuba, and was adamant: He didnt hurt anyone or do anything.

Other videos showing police brutality against demonstrators have been shared this week, after Cuban leader Miguel Diaz-Canel had called for any means necessary to be used against protesters.

Information from the island has been limited as Cuban authorities have restricted access to social media and messaging platforms including Facebook and WhatsApp following the protests.
A Canadian plan to use surplus American coronavirus vaccines to inoculate Canadians inside a tunnel connecting the countries has been shot down by the government.

The mayor of Windsor, Ontario, Drew Dilkens, proposed a plan that would have invited Canadians to the Detroit-Windsor border tunnel beneath the Detroit River, according to a report by the Associated Press.

The Canadians would have lined up along the border where they would receive the surplus US vaccines from American healthcare workers.

"We're not trying to send a man to the moon here. We're using the infrastructure to accomplish a shared goal," Mr Dilkens told the AP. "This is a sensible, reasonable alternative to vaccines heading to the landfill."

The Canadian government shot down the plan, which Mr Dilkens says is now "dead.

According to the AP, the Canada Border Services Agency rejected the idea on the grounds that it would disturb traffic and pose "significant" security issues.

Border logistics further complicated the plan. As the healthcare workers administering the vaccines would be delivering the vaccines from the US, if any of them were to accidentally cross the border line into Canada it would violate Canadian law, as a vaccine cannot be legally imported into Canada without the consent of the country's health authority.

The vaccines would come from a surplus of 500,000 vaccines that will expire in August, according to the AP.

Though the plan would make use of vaccines that are set to expire, the country is not hurting for vaccines; the country's military general overseeing coronavirus vaccine distribution said that the nation's supply of vaccines is almost outpacing its demand.

According to CTVnews, Brigadier General Krista Brodie said that more than two million doses of the vaccine are being held back because provinces said they cannot use them due to a lack of demand.

According to Brig-Gen Brodie, the provinces have a surplus of nine million doses. She said that in a matter of weeks the country will have enough surplus vaccines to inoculate every eligible Canadian.

Canada's new plan will be to try to minimize vaccine waste by only providing doses when requested by the provinces. By conserving the vaccines, the government hopes to be able to donate unused doses to countries that are still in need of the vaccine.

The vaccination rate in Canada has significantly outpaced the US, with more than 79 per cent of eligible Canadians over the age of 12 at least partially vaccinated, with 54 per cent fully vaccinated.
Heres some of what happened while the world was distracted by the coronavirus: Hungary banned the public depiction of homosexuality. China shut Hong Kongs last pro-democracy newspaper. Brazils government extolled dictatorship. And Belarus hijacked a passenger plane to arrest a journalist.

COVID-19 has absorbed the worlds energies and isolated countries from one another, which may have accelerated the creep of authoritarianism and extremism across the globe, some researchers and activists believe.

COVID is a dictators dream opportunity, said Theary Seng, a Cambodian-American human rights lawyer who has been indicted on charges including treason in the ostensibly democratic southeast Asian nation, where Prime Minister Hun Sen has been in power for more than three decades.

Human Rights Watch accuses Cambodias government of using the pandemic as cover to imprison political opponents without due process. Scores have been indicted and face mass trials.

When it comes to government opposition, the fear of COVID, on its own and as a political weapon, has substantially restricted mobility for a gathering or movement to take shape, Seng said.

The biggest global public health emergency in a century has handed power to government authorities and restricted life for billions of people.

Luke Cooper, a London School of Economics researcher and author of the book Authoritarian Contagion, said the vast economic, health and social resources poured into fighting the pandemic mean the state is back as a force to manage society and to deliver public goods.

Restrictions on civil liberties or political opponents have been stepped up during the pandemic on several continents.

For a decade in Hungary, conservative nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban has curtailed media and judicial freedom, criticized multiculturalism and attacked Muslim migrants as a threat to Europes Christian identity.

During the pandemic, Orbans government brought in an emergency powers bill allowing it to implement resolutions without parliamentary approval -- effectively a license to rule by decree. In June, it passed a law prohibiting the sharing of content portraying homosexuality or sex reassignment with anyone under 18. The government claims the purpose is to protect children from pedophiles, but it effectively outlawed discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity in schools and the media.

Polands conservative government has chipped away at the rights of women and gay people. A ruling last year by a government-controlled court that imposed a near-total ban on abortion triggered a wave of protests that defied a ban on mass gatherings during the virus outbreak.

In India, the worlds biggest democracy, populist Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been accused of trying to silence voices critical of his administrations response to a brutal pandemic wave that tore through the country in April and May. His government has arrested journalists and ordered Twitter to remove posts that criticized its handling of the outbreak after introducing sweeping regulations that give it more power to police online content.

Even before the pandemic, Modis ruling Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party was accused by opponents of squashing dissent and introducing policies aimed at refashioning a multifaith democracy into a Hindu nation that discriminates against Muslims and other minorities.

In Russia, the government of President Vladimir Putin has used the pandemic as its latest excuse to arrest opposition figures. Associates of jailed opposition figure Alexei Navalny have been subjected to house arrest and charges that the mass protests against his arrest violated regulations on mass gatherings.

In neighboring Belarus, authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko extended his quarter-century iron grip on power by winning an August 2020 election that the opposition -- and many Western countries -- said was rigged. The huge protests that erupted were met with tear gas, rubber bullets and mass arrests.

Then, in May, a Ryanair plane flying from Athens to Vilnius was forced to land in the Belarusian capital of Minsk after the crew was told of an alleged threat. Opposition journalist Raman Pratasevic, a passenger, was taken off the plane along with his girlfriend and arrested.

Western nations called the forced diversion a brazen hijacking and slapped sanctions on Belarus, but those seem unlikely to induce Lukashenko to change his ways and underscore the weakness of democracies in confronting hardline regimes. Hungarys acts have drawn sharp words from fellow European Union leaders, but the 27-nation bloc has no unified response to restrictive regimes like those in Hungary or Poland.

Even before COVID-19 came along, extremism was on the march.

Over the last 15 years, authoritarian politics has replicated all over the world, Cooper said.

Democracy feels very fragile. Democracy doesnt have a clear vision for what its trying to do in the 21st century.

The 2008 global financial crisis, which saw governments pump billions into teetering banks, shook confidence in the Western world order. And the years of recession and government austerity that followed boosted populism in Europe and North America.

In China, authorities saw the 2008 economic crash as evidence that they, and not the worlds democracies, were on the right path.

Historian Rana Mitter, director of the University of Oxford China Center, said the crisis persuaded Chinas communist government that the West no longer had lessons to teach them. Since then, Beijing has increasingly flexed Chinas economic muscle abroad while cracking down on opposition inside its borders.

In recent years, hundreds of thousands of Muslim Uyghurs have been confined in re-education camps in Chinas western Xinjiang region, where activists and former detainees accuse authorities of imposing forced labor, systematic forced birth control and torture. Beijing instead characterizes the camps as vocational training centers.

Beijing also has tightened control on Hong Kong, stifling dissent in the former British colony. Protesters, publishers and journalists critical of Beijing have been jailed and the last remaining pro-democracy newspaper, Apple Daily, stopped publishing in June after the arrest of its top editors and executives.

When the coronavirus first emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan, authorities responded firmly -- though far from transparently -- with draconian lockdowns that got the virus in check.

Mitter said the pandemic has cemented a view -- among many ordinary Chinese, as well as the countrys leaders -- that something had gone very wrong in terms of the way in which the democratic world had dealt with the virus, and something had gone right in China.

That is now being used very much as a lesson, not just about the pandemic, but about the virtues of Chinas system as opposed to the systems of liberal countries, he said.

Last year, curfews and travel restrictions also became commonplace across Europe. People in France needed to show a signed declaration to travel more than 1 kilometer (just over a half-mile) from home. And Britons were banned by law from going on vacation abroad, while some attendees at a London vigil for a murdered woman were arrested for gathering illegally.

British lawmakers have expressed concern about the scope of the Conservative governments emergency powers, many passed without debate in Parliament.

Since March 2020, the government has introduced a large volume of new legislation, much of it transforming everyday life and introducing unprecedented restrictions on ordinary activities, said Ann Taylor, an opposition Labour Party politician who chairs the House of Lords Constitution Committee. Yet parliamentary oversight of these significant policy decisions has been extremely limited.

Politicians and intelligence agencies in the West also have warned of the threat from coronavirus conspiracy theories that dovetail with existing extremist narratives. Many countries have seen large anti-lockdown, anti-mask, anti-vaccine protests attended by a mix of the far right, the far left and assorted conspiracists.

The British government has warned of extremists exploiting the crisis to sow division and undermine the social fabric of our country, with different hate groups variously blaming Muslims, Jews and 5G phone technology for the pandemic.

But there are signs of fighting back. The pandemic also has boosted trust in scientists and spurred demands for more accountable political leadership.

In Hungary, which has one of the worlds highest per-capita coronavirus death rates, there is growing opposition both to the governments pandemic policies and to its wider authoritarian thrust, and thousands have taken to the streets in support of academic freedom and LGBT rights. With an election due in 2022, a six-party opposition coalition has united to try to unseat Orbans Fidesz party.

Both extremism and resistance can be seen in Brazil where the far-right President Jair Bolsonaro has expressed nostalgia for the countrys two-decade military dictatorship and last year attended protests against the countrys courts and Congress. He dismissed the virus as a little flu, cast doubt on the effectiveness of vaccines and opposed social and economic restrictions.

Renato Meirelles, director of Brazilian polling company Locomotive Institute, said authoritarianism had advanced through a strategy of fake news and attacks on factual truth. The next step will be questioning the electronic vote and, as such, the result of the next election, he said.

Bolsonaro has so far been held in check by Brazils institutions, especially the Supreme Court, which stopped him from preventing states and cities from implementing restrictions to curb COVID-19 and has ordered an inquiry into the governments pandemic response. And protests have finally spilled out onto the streets. Twice over the past month, demonstrators marched in dozens of cities across the country.

Im here to fight for the rights of those in need, for the rights of my children, for my right to live, to have vaccines for all, said Claudia Maria, a protester in Rio de Janeiro.

In the United States, President Joe Biden has veered away from the populism of Donald Trump, but a Republican Party radicalized by the former presidents supporters has every chance of winning power again.

Cooper, of the LSE, said the authoritarian tide was unlikely to recede soon.

This is a struggle between democracy and authoritarianism thats going to last decades, he said.

___

Associated Press Writers Jim Heintz in Moscow, Justin Spike in Budapest, David Biller in Rio de Janeiro, Christopher Bodeen in Beijing, Sheikh Saaliq in New Delhi and Grant Peck in Bangkok contributed.
President Joe Biden has said that his Covid-19 team is actively assessing the situation throughout Europe and that his administration will announce when the ban on travel from Europe will be lifted in the days ahead.

The president was questioned on the issue at a press conference on Thursday alongside German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who he said had raised the issue with him at a working meeting.

We brought in the head of our Covid team, because the chancellor brought that subject up, Mr Biden responded. Its in the process of [seeing] how soon we can lift the ban.

Its in process now. And Ill be able to answer that question to you within the next several days, what is likely to happen. Im waiting to hear from our folks, from our Covid team, as to when that should be done, he said.

Businesses in Germany and across Europe have been putting continued pressure on the Biden administration to relax the ban, which was put in place shortly after he took office in January. It prevents all nonessential travel from the region, though noncitizens can apply for waivers including for reasons of significant economic activity.

That pressure continued this week when Europes largest auto industry association, headquartered in Frankfurt, issued a letter to the US Embassy in Berlin.

Business travel to the USA must once again be possible without restrictions. The US government is currently locking out European business travellers. It is incomprehensible that the Schengen states are still classified as high-risk areas by the United States, wrote the Mechanical Engineering Industry Association.

Germany has seen its rate of new Covid-19 cases plunge to a 7-day average of less than 1,000 in recent months, as have many other countries in the region, though some including France have seen their numbers begin to tick up once again in July.
A 34-year-old man from Idaho has become the latest Capitol rioter to plead guilty after admitting that he thought he had sat in Nancy Pelosis chair on 6 January.

Josiah B Colt told a court on Wednesday that an image of him sitting in the chair of the presiding officer in the Senate  and what he mistakenly believed to be Ms Pelosis chair  looks worse than it is when taken out of context, according to The Washington Post.

Ms Pelosis chair, as speaker of the House, is in the House chamber.

US District Judge Thomas F Hogan, who read from Colts statement of facts, told him: You not only got into the Senate gallery, but you sat in the presiding officers chair, which you mistakenly thought was Speaker [Nancy] Pelosis chair, is that an accurate summary?

Colt told the judge that was correct, and that a photo of him in the presiding officers chair with his fist in the air was kind of a joke. In another image, he was seen hanging off a balcony inside of the Senate.

After walking out of the Capitol on 6 January, Colt allegedly told friends on Facebook: I just got in the Capitol building, I was the first one that hopped down into the chamber, and I was the first one to sit in Nancy Pelosis chair.

That b****, shes a traitor, he added in the video.

As reported by Insider in January, Colt told local news outlets before his arrest that he was sorry and got "caught up in the moment." An FBI affidavit said Colt was "mistaken about sitting in Ms Pelosis chair.

On Wednesday, Judge Hogan and prosecutors agreed to drop three misdemeanour charges against Colt in exchange for his full cooperation with investigations into the riot. He is expected to return to court in October.

As The Post reported, he also admitted to organising travel to Washington DC with two other men with firearms and weapons. They are awaiting trial.
US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has issued a warning that misinformation is now the main public health threat driving the United States ongoing Covid-19 outbreak.

The US top doctor issued an official warning about the spread of false information on Thursday, and appeared at the daily White House press briefing to deliver a stern call to social media companies, which he identified as a major home for false claims about Covid-19 and the vaccines.

Almost every death were seeing now from Covid-19 could have been prevented, Mr Murthy warned.

Today we live in a world where misinformation poses an imminent and insidious threat to our nations health, the surgeon general added.

Asked repeatedly by reporters to identify specific public figures or officials responsible for spreading misinformation, Mr Murthy and White House press secretary Jen Psaki declined, only noting that much of the total volume on Facebook comes from roughly a dozen people.

The administration was firm on one point, though: social media companies bear the brunt of the blame for allowing much of this misinformation to continue.

Modern technology companies have enabled misinformation to poison our information environment with little accountability to their users, Mr Murthy said.

The Independent has reached out to Facebook for comment on the officials remarks. A Twitter spokesperson confirmed that company officials met with Mr Murthy earlier in the week, and supported his assertion that misinformation was a major public health issue.

We agree with the Surgeon General  tackling health misinformation takes a whole-of-society approach. Well continue to take enforcement action on content that violates our COVID-19 misleading information policy and improve and expand our efforts to elevate credible, reliable health information  now, amid the COVID-19 pandemic  and as we collectively navigate the public health challenges to come, said a Twitter spokesperson.

We continue to work in close consultation with global public health authorities, public health experts, and elected officials to help people find authoritative, public health information about COVID-19. We welcome the Surgeon Generals leadership and partnership in this work, they added.

Facebook remains under investigation by the attorney general of Washington DC regarding its handling of Covid-19 misinformation, and the AGs office has criticized the company in the press for not being transparent about efforts to stop false claims that health officials say are costing lives.

Thursdays press conference was the latest event in a long line of efforts by President Joe Biden to depoliticize the Covid-19 pandemic, which became a bizarrely dividing force in America over the last year. Skepticism about the danger posed by the virus, the effectiveness of masks, and the safety of Covid-19 vaccines is all higher among conservatives than among liberals in the US.

Much of the division may well be linked to former President Donald Trump, who famously refused to wear masks on numerous occasions, downplayed the danger posed by the virus ahead of the main US outbreak, and often flouted procedures such as social distancing advised by health officials to prevent Covid-19 outbreaks.

A superspreader event occurred at the White House last fall when supporters of the president gathered to celebrate the nomination of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court, resulting in numerous guests and attending press becoming infected.
Miami Republican Mayor Francis Suarez has suggested that the US consider airstrikes against Cuba as anti-government protests prompted by economic struggles, food shortages and rising prices roil the island nation.

What should be contemplated right now is a coalition of potential military action in Cuba, Mr Suarez told Fox News on Tuesday.

His father was born in Cuba and previously occupied the office he now inhabits.

Mr Suarez cited US interventions in Panama and Kosovo as possible blueprints for military action against Cuba.

When the Miami Mayor was asked if he was calling for airstrikes, he said: What Im suggesting is that option is one that has to be explored, and one that cannot be just simply discarded.

The US has a history of failed attempted interventions in Cuba, including the 1961 Bay of Pigs invasion and assassinations attempts supported by the CIA against former Cuban leader Fidel Castro.

Mr Suarezs comments come after Cuba saw its largest anti-government protests in decades on Sunday.

Amid the clashes, one man died and more than 140 have been arrested or been reported missing during the rare protests against the island nations communist regime.

Diubis Laurencio Tejeda, 36, died in a Havana suburb on Monday as protesters faced the police. The interior ministry of Cuba didnt reveal the cause of death but alleged that he had been a part of a group that attacked a state facility. But witnesses say government forces attacked the protesters.

South Florida has the largest share of Cuban Americans in the country and Miami has seen demonstrations in support of the Cuban protest movement.

While President Joe Biden expressed support for the protestors on Monday, hes still facing pressure from Democrats and Republicans to intervene.

Some Republicans are arguing that Mr Biden should take a tough stance against the authoritarian Cuban government, but several Democrats are urging Mr Biden to lift the trade embargo that has been in place for decades and remove sanctions and restrictions imposed during the Trump administration.

The Cuban people are crying out for help. We have a moral obligation not only to provide humanitarian assistance but to END the failed, unilaterally harmful trade embargo that has caused enormous pain and suffering among the Cuban people for nearly six decades, Illinois Democratic Rep Bobby Rush tweeted.

Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders wrote: All people have the right to protest and to live in a democratic society. I call on the Cuban government to respect opposition rights and refrain from violence. Its also long past time to end the unilateral U.S. embargo on Cuba, which has only hurt, not helped, the Cuban people.

Mr Trump reversed the Obama administrations policy of re-establishing diplomatic and economic relations with Cuba.

I dont think the embargo is cruel at all, Mr Suarez said on Tuesday. I think the Cuban people arent asking for a lifting of the embargo. Theyre going out on the streets every single day talking about the failure of the communist regime to provide for its people... It has failed for six decades.

Critics note the embargo has not led to democracy being established in Cuba, harms the Cuban people, and has served as a way for the Communist regime to blame its failures on external forces.

Then-president Obama urged Congress to lift the embargo in 2016.

It is an outdated burden on the Cuban people, Mr Obama said in Havana. Its a burden on the Americans who want to work and do business or invest here in Cuba. It's time to lift the embargo.

The Biden administration has not made any larger changes to the Trump administrations policies towards Cuba and they have made clear that its not a top foreign policy priority.
Angela Merkels Thursday visit to the White House might be her last as Germanys chancellor, but valedictory ceremonies will be the last thing on the agenda  literally.

Before she sits down to dinner with President Joe Biden and a small group described by a senior administration official as a range of individuals who have long been strong supporters of Germany and the bilateral relationship, the 32nd chancellor of Germany and the 46th President of the United States will engage on a full range of policy issues, not least of which is the threat to western democracies posed by a more aggressive China and Russia.

The leaders  will discuss shared ways to respond to regional challenges, including addressing Russian cyberattacks and territorial aggression, countering Chinas rising influence, non-market economic practices and human rights abuses, including forced labor, support for Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity, and  bolstering the Euro Atlantic aspirations of the Western Balkan countries, said a senior administration official who briefed reporters on the meeting late Wednesday.

The official added that the president and Ms Merkel will also discuss their commitment to shoring up democracy at home, and defending human rights, democratic institutions and the rule of law around the world.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel attends the weekly cabinet meeting at the Chancellery in Berlin, Germany, 14 July 2021 (Annegret Hilse/Pool via AP)

Since the Berlin Wall came down in 1989, Germany and the US have had an extraordinarily close relationship. The US is one of Germanys largest markets for exports, and Germany is Americas largest European trading partner. And despite many Germans post-war reluctance to deploy troops abroad, Bundeswehrsoldiers have fought side-by-side with Americans  the countrys first combat operations since 1945  as part of Natos International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan.

But even the strong ties between Washington and Berlin became quite strained during the presidency of Donald Trump, who frequently complained that Germany should be paying the US for maintaining a military presence in the country.

But one item not specifically on the agenda for Thursday? Russias controversial Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline.

Mr Trump frequently complained about the pipeline when airing grievances about the cost of keeping American troops deployed in Germany, and his Republican allies have attacked Mr Biden for allowing Mr Blinken to waive sanctions on the company behind the pipeline as well as its chief executive as part of the administrations attempt to mend ties between the US and Germany.

The official said the waivers have given the US diplomatic space to work with German officials to find ways to address the negative impacts of the pipeline, but when asked whether Mr Biden and Ms Merkel would discuss the project, the official demurred and noted that the Biden administration has been engaging on the matter at multiple levels, including discussions between National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and Secretary of State Antony Blinken and their German counterparts.

We are not anticipating any sort of formal announcement or deliverable coming out of the leaders and meetings tomorrow on Nord Stream, butthe teams have been having very productive conversations on this set of issues and we expect that those will continue, said the official, who added the caveat that Mr Biden would nonetheless raise his long standing concernsabout Russias geopolitical project, and about the importance of developing concrete mechanisms to ensure that energy is not used as a coercive tool against Ukraine, our eastern flank allies, or any other country.

 Germany seeks clarification on report US spied on Merkel

Ms Merkels visit to Washington is part of Mr Bidens overarching goal of revitalizing the transatlantic relationship by increasing cooperation with NATO and raising the level of ambition with the EU, the official explained, adding that our relationship with Germany  is a very important foundation for all of that.

To that end, Mr Biden and Ms Merkel will commemorate Thursdays meeting by releasing a document that will be known as the Washington Declaration, meant to outline their common vision for cooperation to confront policy challenges.

This document is likely to lay out the broad principles and values that are shaping our relationship, and that we believe are going to be guiding principles for the relationship in the months and years ahead as we continue to confront the shared challenges that that we both face in terms of our shared commitment to democratic principles, values and institutions, and human rights, our common dedication to upholding the international rules based order and an open world without spheres of influence, our joint efforts to build strong and equitable market economies that cultivate resilience and demonstrate that democratic leadership delivers for the world, the official said.

Other deliverables expected from the meeting include a futures forum to bring together Germans and Americans from a wide range of sectors, to be able to analyse and propose solutions to global problems going forward, as well as a a climate and energy partnership, which the official said would enable us to work together to address climate change, transformational energy technologies and support for energy transitions in in emerging economies.
A judge on Wednesday rejected a selective prosecution claim by a one-time associate of Rudy Giuliani who faces an October trial with two others on charges that they made illegal campaign contributions.

U.S. District Judge J. Paul Oetken made the ruling prior to a trial of Lev Parnas Igor Fruman and Andrey Kukushkin, on charges that they had a scheme to make illegal campaign contributions to politicians in New York Nevada and other states.

Prosecutors say they were trying to win support for a new recreational marijuana business.

All three have pleaded not guilty. Messages were sent to their lawyers for comment. Todd Blanche, a lawyer for Fruman, declined comment.

Parnas had claimed the charges against him should be dismissed because he was selectively prosecuted.

He maintained he was targeted because of his national origin, his political affiliation and a government conspiracy to prevent him from exercising his constitutional rights.

The judge wrote that other individuals similarly situated to Parnas were prosecuted along with him, including two who share his national origin. As to the discrimination claim, the judge said Parnas's argument was not just speculative, but implausible.

Parnas asserts that his indictment and arrest were a means to thwart Parnass testimony in the impeachment inquiry of former President Donald Trump  Oetken said. "But the theorizing of Twitters users, and Parnass own speculation, do not constitute evidence of an improperly motivated prosecution.

Indeed, Parnas was, by his own admission, not cooperating with the Congressional demand as of the day of his indictment. To accept Parnass conspiracy theory, the Government would have to have known that, one day in the future, Parnas would change his mind and decide to cooperate with the Congressional demand, he said.

The judge also said the conduct of prosecutors since the charges were brought undermine the selective prosecution argument.

The Government consented to allowing Parnas to produce documents to the House impeachment committee, and it has not objected to Parnass media interviews and television appearances, Oetken said.

The judge did, however, grant a request by Parnas to allow him to face a separate trial on charges that he cheated investors in a business titled Fraud Guarantee."

Parnas and Fruman face charges that they made sizable contributions while trying to get Americans interested in investigating Bidens son in Ukraine. Parnas and Fruman worked with Giuliani to try to convince Ukraine to announce a probe of Biden. Giuliani, a Republican, has said he knew nothing about the donations.

Trumps efforts to press Ukraine for an investigation of the Bidens led the House to impeach Trump, though he was acquitted by the Senate.
Texas legislative Democrats met with Senator Joe Manchin to discuss voting rights as they were in Washington to prevent the passage of a bill they say would restrict voting in their state.

Democrats from the Texas state legislature are in Washington in an attempt to block the passage of a Republican-sponsored bill. Republican Governor Greg Abbott called a special legislative session for the bill after Democrats staged a walkout from the legislature in May to oppose the bill.

State Senator Roland Gutierrez said he and other Texas Democrats spoke with Mr Manchin, who, as a conservative Democrat, is often the deciding vote in Democrats slim majority, about the legislation in Texas and their fears it could criminalise poll workers and empower so-called poll watchers who could monitor elections.

He was surprised to know about some of the harsher elements of the bill, he said. So part of the meeting was informative and then the second part obviously was to ask him not just for his advice but to ask him to have Congress help us in some way shape or form.

Mr Gutierrez said they are hoping this could take the form of Mr Manchin supporting some federal election law, whether it be the For the People Act or the John Lewis Voting Rights Act.

Mr Manchin has in the past come out against the For the People Act and has also defended the use of the filibuster. At the same time, Mr Manchin and Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska have proposed legislation to reauthorise the Voting Rights Act. Specifically, it would include a provision that would require states with a history of voter disenfranchisement to receive federal clearance when they pass voting laws. The Supreme Court significantly weakened the formula for which states were subjected to the preclearance requirement in 2013.

Similarly, like his fellow conservative Democratic Senator Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, he supported upholding the filibuster.

We did talk about possibly coming up with his compromise bill and trying to get to the 60 votes, Something that would create fairness, access and security in voting, Mr Gutierrez said.

We are asking for anything from the federal government that would give us the guidance that we need, that would tell Republicans in the Texas legislature that the federal government is going to ensure that we have fair, accessible, secure elections, like we have had.

Multiple Republican-controlled states have passed voting legislation that advocates say would make it harder for communities of color or people with disabilities to vote. This comes despite the fact Texas voted Republican in the last election.
Donald Trump used the first ladys phone to keep calls away from the prying ears of his former chief of staff John Kelly, according to a new book.

The inner workings of the Trump administration were outlined in Frankly, We Did Win This Election, the new book from Wall Street Journal reporter Michael Bender that was released this week.

Among the tidbits revealed were how Mr Trump tried to get around the rules and regulations in place to monitor official communications.

That included the authority of the chief of staff to listen in to the presidents calls patched in through the White House, as revealed in an excerpt reported by Raw Story.

"When John Kelly, a retired, four-star Marine general whom Trump had recruited into his administration, invoked his chief of staff authority to listen in on any call that was patched through to the president from the West Wing switchboard, Trump gave friends the number to Melanias phone to circumvent this official channel," Mr Bender wrote.

He also wrote that Mr Trump gave more "walk-in privileges" to almost anyone, making the chief of staffs strategies to restrict access to the president invariably unsuccessful.

"Trump White House aides frequently tried to sneak in one final word during internal debates by leaving him printouts of unsourced and aggressively biased Breitbart News stories that backed up their own position," Mr Bender wrote.

Printed news stories handed to the president is relatively normal compared to another story from the book, in which Mr Trump threw a crumpled up newspaper article at vice president Mike Pence, who promptly threw it back.

Mr Trump was upset his campaign manager Corey Lewandowski was planning to work for Mr Pence in 2018 would make him "look weak", according to an excerpt published by Insider.

In one of the few instances standing up to Mr Trump, the vice president leaned in and "pointed a finger a few inches from his chest".

"We walked you through every detail of this," Mr Pence reportedly said. "We did this for you  as a favour. And this is how you respond? You need to get your facts straight."

In a statement to Insider, Mr Trump disputed the account by a "third-rate reporter" as totally false.

"No such fight ever happened, it is fiction as are so many others stories written in the vast number of books coming out about me," the statement said.
The police chief of Miami marched with demonstrators in the city to protest the Cuban government, hugging and consoling activists hoping to see the regime change in the island nation.

Art Acevedo, the city's police chief, joined in with anti-Cuban government protesters, offering sympathy to a pair of crying men and other emotional demonstrators.

Many Cubans who fled the country after Fidel Castro ousted the regime of Fulgencio Batista settled in Miami. Many Miami-based Cubans have been critical Castro's revolutionary government.

Cubans are currently protesting rising prices in commodities as well as food and medicine scarcity as the island faces its worst surge in coronavirus cases since the start of the pandemic. Protesters who support the government and police have mobilised to fight back against the uprising.

Mr Acevedo told broadcaster WSVN on Wednesday that police had to show empathy with protesters, regardless of the causes that bring them to the streets.

"Our community is hurting, and whether it's last summer's Black Lives Matter and George Floyd protest, if you're in law enforcement, especially a police leader, and you can't have empathy and you can't be with your community, you probably don't need to be here," Mr Acevedo said.

Black Lives Matter protesters in Miami will likely be surprised by the chief's comments, as many claimed during the 2020 George Floyd protests that the police force regularly used excessive force to break up their marches.

When you're a police chief, you have to live in that city, and you have to be part of that community, Mr Acevedo said. This is our community. Last summer, it was Black Lives Matter, the George Floyd family. If you can't feel that pain in the African American community last summer and the Cuban community this year, then you need to go do something else.

Mr Acevedo has expressed sympathy with Cubans in Miami who long for regime change in Cuba.

"We wake every morning as Cubans and say hey are those SOB's out of power yet? And they're not. People don't understand that we've got to keep the pressure on that government," he told Fox News.

Earlier this week, Miami's mayor, Francis Suarez, called on the US government to intervene in the protests in Cuba to displace the regime.

The US government, which has a long history of interfering in the democratic processes of Latin American and South American countries, often by training violent opposition forces to depose regimes, has denied any involvement in the ongoing protests in Cuba.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters that the protests in Cuba rose from internal strife and were not encouraged by the US government.

The city's police faced criticism when it allowed demonstrators protesting the Cuban government to shut down roadways, a tactic the department did not tolerate during the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020.
Iraq s foreign minister pledged Thursday that his country will investigate human trafficking networks responsible for smuggling hundreds of Iraqis into Europe specifically to Lithuania from Belarus

The announcement by Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein came after a meeting in Baghdad with visiting Lithuanian counterpart, Gabrielius Landsbergis. Lithuania, which recently had to declare a state of emergency due to the rising influx of migrants, had appealed on Iraq to act in the matter.

Hussein said Iraq will form a committee with representatives from the Foreign Ministry, Migration Ministry, as well as intelligence and the Civil Aviation Authority to clamp down on the smuggling networks. He spoke to reporters in a joint press conference with Landsbergis.

Landsbergis said there was a mutual need to disrupt the network from Iraq into Europe that was being perpetrated by malign actors using criminal elements. He blamed neighboring Belarus for encouraging migration into Lithuania.

In the past two months, more than 1,500 people have crossed into Lithuania  20 times more than in the whole of 2020. In response, Vilnius declared a state of emergency and accused Belarus of organizing border crossings by people, mainly from Iraq.

An unfriendly country to us, our neighbor, is using migrants, mostly Iraqi people, to pressure my country, to pressure the European Union in order for us to change our policy," Landsbergis said.

We feel Iraqi people are becoming a victim of the Belarusian regime, he said. Landsbergis added that he had recounted to Hussein some of the testimony collected by Lithuanian authorities from 800 Iraqi migrants about how they were trafficked into Lithuania.

Iraqi people are being promised an easy trip to Europe, a European paradise of sorts, but the problem is, they end up in a Lithuanian forest in a refugee camp, he said. We think those people were lied to, they had to pay a lot of a money to get to the border.

Relations between Lithuania and Belarus soured after the August 2020 elections in Minsk, which was won by long-time President Alexander Lukashenko but has been condemned by the West as rigged. The vote results triggered months of protests and a harsh crackdown on the opposition by Lukashenkos authoritarian regime.

Hussein said the committee would investigate the issue inside Iraq and take action based on its results.
Democratic Senators are divided on whether to lift the years-long embargo on Cuba amid rising protests in the nation.

Democrats have historically struggled to win the support of Cuban-American voters and some see a political opportunity in the recent protests on the island. The U.S. embargo against Cuba began during the Cold War.

Barack Obamas administration worked to normalize relations with the nation but Donald Trumps administration added sanctions. Cuban-American voters have historically voted Republican and Mr Trumps reelection campaign made major inroads with the voting group in South Florida.

Most Democrats expressed support for the rights of the Cuban people to protest.

Its good to see Cubans standing up for their rights finally, Sen Mark Kelly of Arizona said. And the situation there is untenable. Mr Kelly pointed to the food shortages in the country and the impact of Covid-19.

Senator Raphael Warnock of Georgia echoed those statements but only said that the U.S. needed a comprehensive approach that helps the Cuban people.

Meanwhile Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota co-sponsored legislation with Republican Senator Jerry Moran earlier this year to lift the embargo against Cuba.

So right now I was focused on building more support for a bill and of course supporting the right of the protesters, Ms Klobuchar said. A former presidential candidate, Ms Klobuchar has supported lifting the embargo and visited the nation on multiple occasions .

Senator John Hickenlooper of Colorado said he hadnt read Klobuchars bill to lift the embargo but said the demonstrations were a remarkable uprising to see theres apparently over such a large part of the island is surprising and I think impressive.

Senator Ben Cardin of Maryland, who sits on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has in the past supported lifting the embargo .

This is a time where you dont want to give the wrong signal to the Cuban government, Mr Cardin said. Im all for moving towards more normalization with Cuba but not unless theres an acknowledgement by the Cuban officials of the rights of the people.

But Senator Robert Menendez, who is Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said the protests have nothing to do with the embargo.

The only embargo that exists is by the Cuban regime against its own people, Menendez said. A regime that has flowing food and supplies at dollar stores but not for the average Cuban.

Menendez is one of three Cuban-American Senators and the sole Cuban-American Democratic Senator. Sens Marco Rubio of Florida and Ted Cruz of Texas are Republicans and vocal critics of the regime.

Meanwhile, Sen Jon Tester of Montana said he wants to normalize relations with the nation.

The people are great. The government has not been particularly helpful, he said. And we havent been particularly helpful to them. Theres a two-way street. So I want to normalize relations. We just gotta figure out how to do it.
The former top vaccination official in Tennessee was sent a dog muzzle in the mail several days before she was fired, which she believes was a move made to appease right-wing lawmakers.

Dr Michelle Fiscus's husband, Brad told The Tennessean that she believed the muzzle was a message warning her to keep quiet about her coronavirus concerns.

"Someone wanted to send a message to tell her to stop talking," he said. "They thought it would be a threat to her."

Dr Fiscus became the object of ire for Republican lawmakers in the state due to her efforts to encourage teenagers to take the Covid-19 vaccine.

The issue came to a head during a legislative session in June when some Republican lawmakers threatened to defund the state's department of health at time when coronavirus cases are on the rise due to the highly contagious Delta variant of the virus.

During the session, the lawmakers pointed to a letter Dr Fiscus sent to medical providers telling them they could legally vaccinate children 14 and older without parental consent.

Last week, Dr Fiscus was fired without explanation. She received the package with the dog muzzle shortly before she was terminated.

"She said, `Whoever sent that must not know me very well. Thats for a beagle, but Im a pit bull, her husband told the newspaper.

Though the Tennessee Department of Health has not commented on the termination, the state's Department of Safety and Homeland Security said it was investigating the package.

Dr Fiscus issued a statement following her firing, saying that she was afraid for the state and "angry for the amazing people of the Tennessee Department of Health who have been mistreated by an uneducated public and leaders who have only their own interests in mind.

In the wake of her termination, the state's health department has stopped outreach programs to encourage teenagers to get the Covid-19 vaccine.
Six months into President Joe Bidens first term in office and former President Donald Trump is still dominating the headlines, a phenomenon that only gained steam this week as three books reporting on the final turbulent months of the Trump administration are hitting shelves.

The latest offerings come in the form of books from The Wall Street Journals Michael Bender, journalists Carol Leonnig and Phillip Rucker of The Washington Post; as well as author Michael Wolff, whose previous accounts of the Trump White House have faced criticism over some inaccuracies pointed out within.

In all, the three tomes have painted a chaotic view of the 45th presidents last year in office, while providing an illuminating look into the mindset of a man who, coming up on a year after his election defeat, has yet to even acknowledge that he lost.

The books also provide an interesting look into which of his formerly closest allies and advisers chose to abandon their former boss amid his increasingly bewildering claims about the 2020 election, and the plans some had made to respond in the event he refused to leave office.

Heres some of the most interesting revelations and juiciest tidbits brought to light by the latest Trump dump:

Top defence officials seriously worried about the possibility that Trump would not leave quietly

In excerpts of Mr Rucker and Ms Leonnigs book first published in CNN, the authors describe how Gen Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, spoke to other defence officials about what to do if Mr Trump made an illegal order to the military in the days following his defeat.

U.S. President Donald Trump speaks as Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman, Army General Mark Milley looks on after a briefing from senior military leaders in the Cabinet Room at the White House on 7 October 2019 in Washington DC. (Getty Images)

Those discussions involved what they would do in the event that Mr Trump ordered them to help him stay in the White House, according to the journalists.

"They may try, but theyre not going to f***ing succeed", Gen Milley said, reportedly adding: "You cant do this without the military. You cant do this without the CIA and the FBI. Were the guys with the guns."

Of Mr Trumps false claims of election fraud, Gen Milley reportedly drew comparisons to Adolf Hitlers rise to power: "This is a Reichstag moment.

Gen Milley remains the top US general to this day.

2. Rudy Giuliani was in on the Big Lie from the beginning

There has been endless debate as to how much individual pushers of the former presidents false claim that the 2020 election was stolen bear responsibility for its continued persistence, but in the excerpts of Ms Leonnig and Mr Ruckers book, former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani is at the center of it from the very start.

As election results were still coming in on election night and states including Michigan, Arizona, Georgia and Pennsylvania remained too close to call, Mr Giuliani was ready to make a bold, public assertion that wasnt true, much to the chagrin of other Trump campaign advisors.

Rudy Giuliani at the Four Seasons Total Landscaping press conference in Philadelphia. (AFP)

Just say we won, Mr Giuliani reportedly told campaign manager Bill Stepien and Mark Meadows, the White House chief of staff, of the results in Michigan. Meadows turned him down.

Adding of the still-counting returns in Pennsylvania, Mr Giuliani said: Just say we won Pennsylvania.

When the focus turned to Arizona, which Mr Trump also lost, Mr Giuliani said it was time to just call the whole contest in his boss favour, despite no evidence pointing to that being the case.

Just go declare victory right now, Mr Giuliani advised the president directly. Youve got to go declare victory now.

The mayor-turned-personal-attorneys willingness to make such declarations, traditionally made by the news media once one candidate appears unable to win in a state and verified by that states election officials once all the votes are counted, foreshadowed months of Mr Giulianis efforts to push Mr Trumps Big Lie about the 2020 election.

His efforts were rewarded with suspensions from practicing law in New York and Washington DC.

3. Had he won, Mr Trumps second term would have been more chaotic than the first

While much of the books focus on what happened during the presidents last months in office, a few brief glimpses emerge of what he planned to do should voters have returned him to the White House.

Yet more excerpts of Ms Leonnig and Mr Ruckers book, published in the Post, show that Mr Trump was prepared to reshape Americas military presence around the world far more than he did when he began the process of withdrawing the US from Afghanistan.

NATO, a frequent target of Mr Trumps ire due to concerns that other members do not adequately contribute to the alliance, was to be exited during Mr Trumps second term, a move that would have massive implications for the power balance in Europe, where Ukraine and other countries are hoping for the decades-old alliances protection against Russian aggression.

South Korea, which hosts a large number of US troops as part of the countrys defence against the North and the US efforts to maintain a presence near China, was also to see a pullback of US troops under a second Trump term.

Yeah, the second term, Mr Trump reportedly said of making both moves, in conversations to aides reported by Mr Rucker and Ms Leonnig. Well do it in the second term.

4. Hitler did a lot of good things

Another shocking piece of news unrelated to the final days of Mr Trumps campaign, presidency, and legal efforts to keep the latter going was the revelation from the Journals Mr Bender that Mr Trump praised Adolf Hitler, the genocidal Nazi German dictator, during a private conversation with his chief of staff.

Excerpts of Frankly, We Did Win This Election published in The Guardian described a jaw-dropping moment when Mr Trump made the remarks, of all places, in Europe during a visit to the continent to mark the 100-year anniversary of World War Is ending.

Well, Hitler did a lot of good things, Mr Trump told John Kelly, his then-White House chief, in 2018.

White House chief of staff John Kelly listens as Donald Trump speaks at a briefing with senior military leaders in the Cabinet Room of the White House 5 October 5 2017. (Getty Images)

During an effort by Mr Kelly to educate Mr Trump about the horrors inflicted on Europe by the Nazis, Mr Trump allegedly pushed back with arguments about Germanys economic recovery.

Kelly pushed back again, wrote Mr Bender, according to The Guardian, and argued that the German people would have been better off poor than subjected to the Nazi genocide.

A spokeswoman for Mr Trump fiercely denied that the former president had made this statement, and referred to Mr Kelly as a general who was incompetent and was fired, echoing claims the White House has made about multiple former staffers and officials who have revealed politically-inconvenient information about the president following their exit from the administration.

5. The former president was furious with the unprofessional appearance of his legal team

Whether it was the bizarre claims about interference from the long-dead Hugo Chavez of Venezuela, Mr Giulianis bizarre and increasingly unhinged public appearances, or even more minor details picked up by the press, Mr Trump was disgusted with the public perception of the team chosen to defend his claims about election fraud in court and before legislatures around the country.

Mr Wolffs Landslide opens with an anecdote about Mr Trump discovering the poorly-written, typo laden legal brief filed by his top impeachment lawyer, Bruce Castor, which was marred by embarrassing mistakes (United States was spelled wrong, among other gaffes), and throwing a fit.

What is f***ing wrong with these people?! the former president exclaimed. They cant hit spell-check?

Turning on Mr Castor, his lead lawyer, he bellowed: Fix it! Now!

Elsewhere in the same book, Mr Trumps reaction to Sidney Powell, his former legal representative, was acrid after she suggested that software from Venezuelas socialists had somehow been used in Mr Bidens favor: [T]heyre killing Signey in the press for what shes saying, he said, which he characterized as crazy s**t.

Rudy Giuliani at a heated press conference in Washington DC. (AFP)

Even Mr Giuliani, one of Mr Trumps closest friends and advisors, was not spared after he gave a press conference alongside Ms Powell with black hair dye oozing down his scalp and forehead: Whats going on with this s*** dripping off his face?
Former President Donald Trump called Chancellor Angela Merkel that b**ch and used the disparaging term krauts to refer to the Germans, a new book alleges.

I Alone Can Fix It: Donald J. Trumps Catastrophic Final Year by Washington Post reporters Carol Leonnig and Philip Rucker will be released on Tuesday.

The Post journalists write about an incident in their book when Mr Trump was allegedly speaking to aides and advisors about NATO as well as the US-German relationship in the Oval Office when he referred to the German Chancellor, who has led her country since 2005, as That b**** Merkel.

The then-president also mentioned his late father, Fred Trump, who had German ancestry.

I know the f***ing krauts, the president added, using a derogatory term for German soldiers from World War I and World War II, Ms Leonnig and Mr Rucker write.

The authors went on to note that the former president denied making the above comments through a spokesperson when contacted about the passage prior to the books publication.

Mr Trump and Ms Merkel were famously at odds throughout his presidency, as the two differed significantly on policy issues including the German chancellors support for allowing refugees from Syria and elsewhere in the Middle East and northern Africa resettle in Germany and other parts of Europe.

In 2018, he attacked her indirectly, writing in a tweet that the people of Germany were turning against their leadership on his Twitter account, and added that crime was way up at a time when it was actually at a 30-year low.

Ms Merkel has made her own statements about the US and its reliability as a world power amid Mr Trumps rise to power, and that same year warned other European leaders that the continent must take destiny into its own hands.

It is no longer such that the United States simply protects us, but Europe must take its destiny in its own hands. That's the task of the future, she said during a speech alongside Frances president, Emmanuel Macron.

Trump then pointed to a framed photograph of his father, Fred Trump, displayed on the table behind the Resolute Desk and said, I was raised by the biggest kraut of them all.

A Trump spokesperson told the reporters that the former president denied making those comments.

Mr Trumps grandfather Friedrich Trump left Germany for the US in 1885, avoiding three years of mandatory military service, with Fred Trump being born in the Bronx in New York City in 1905.

Mr Trump and Ms Merkel had a tense relationship. As a presidential candidate in 2015, Mr Trump said the German leader should be ashamed of herself because she allowed a million Syrian refugees to enter her country. He tweeted that she was ruining Germany when Time magazine named her the person of the year.

Ms Merkel left her post as the leader of the Christian Democrats in 2018 and is expected to leave the office of the chancellor later this year, with the next German general election taking place on 26 September.

The chancellor flew to the US on Wednesday for a last visit to the White House on Thursday afternoon, when shell be meeting with President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and other senior administration officials. It will be the fourth US administration Ms Merkel interacts with, having met every US president since George W Bush.
Former President Donald Trump attacked the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen Mark Milley, after it was reported in a new book that top US generals were worried that Mr Trump might attempt a coup after the election.

I never threatened, or spoke about, to anyone, a coup of our Government. So ridiculous! Mr Trump said in a fiery statement on Thursday.

If I was going to do a coup, one of the last people I would want to do it with is General Mark Milley, Mr Trump added. He got his job only because the worlds most overrated general, James Mattis, could not stand him, had no respect for him, and would not recommend him.

Gen Mattis served as Mr Trumps first defence secretary from 2017 to 2019.

The fact that Mattis didnt like him, just like Obama didnt like him and actually fired Milley, was a good thing, not a bad thing. I often act counter to peoples advice who I dont respect, Mr Trump continued.

Mr Obama nominated Gen Milley to be army chief of staff in 2015. He became chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in 2019 after being nominated by Mr Trump.

The former president said he lost respect for Milley when we walked together to St Johns Church (which was still smouldering from a Radical Left fire set the day before), side by side, a walk that has now been proven to be totally appropriate  and the following day Milley choked like a dog in front of the Fake News when they told him they thought he should not have been walking with the President, which turned out to be incorrect.

Donald Trump walks with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley and others to visit St Johns Church on June 1, 2020, in Washington, DC. (AFP via Getty Images)

After authorities used pepper balls and smoke canisters to disperse largely peaceful protesters outside the White House in June 2020 during racial justice protests taking place across the nation following the murder of George Floyd, Gen Milley apologised for taking part in what became a controversial photo op.

I should not have been there, Gen Milley said in a video statement. My presence in that moment and in that environment created a perception of the military involved in domestic politics.

As a commissioned uniformed officer, it was a mistake that I have learned from, Gen Milley added at the time.

He apologised profusely, making it a big story, instead of saying I am proud to walk with and protect the President of the United States, Mr Trump added in his lengthy statement on Thursday. Had he said that, it would have all been over, no big deal, but I saw at that moment he had no courage or skill, certainly not the type of person I would be talking coup with. Im not into coups!

An investigation by the Interior Departments inspector general found last month that federal officers violently cleared Lafayette Square in front of the White House of protesters last summer to allow a contractor to install fencing, and not to give Mr Trump the opportunity to use the church for a photo op. Critics of Mr Trump have argued that the president pushed law enforcement to clear the square in order for him to perform an act of political theatre.

Mr Trump said that around the same time Milley, in a conversation, was an advocate of changing all of the names of our Military Forts and Bases. I realized then, also, he was a much different person than I had hoped. I said to him, spend more time thinking about China and Russia, and less time on being politically correct.

In July 2020, Gen Milley called for the military to take a hard look at renaming military bases honouring Confederate officers who fought against the Union in the Civil War.

There is no place in our armed forces for manifestations or symbols of racism, bias or discrimination, he said at the time.

But never during my Administration did Milley display what he is showing now. He was not woke, Mr Trump continued.

Gen Milley has defended the study of Critical Race Theory at military academies.

 Pentagon Leaders Defend Military Efforts On Racism, Extremism

The way I look at Milley, hes just a better politician than a general, trying to curry favour with the Radical Left and the absolute crazy people espousing a philosophy which will destroy our Country! Mr Trump concluded.

According to reporting in the new book I Alone Can Fix It by Washington Post reporters Carol Leonnig and Philip Rucker, Gen Milley saw Mr Trump as the classic authoritarian leader with nothing to lose, and that he saw parallels between Mr Trumps claims of election fraud and Adolf Hitlers rhetoric.

This is a Reichstag moment, Gen Milley told aides, the reporters write. The gospel of the Fuhrer.

Speaking to friends, colleagues, and lawmakers about the threat of a coup, Gen Milley is reported to have told his deputies: They may try, but theyre not going to f**king succeed. You cant do this without the military. You cant do this without the CIA and the FBI. Were the guys with the guns.
Former President Donald Trump was trolled with a video of leaders mocking him after he claimed that the world didnt laugh at the US when he was president.

Mr Trump was going after Washington Post journalists Carol Leonnig and Philip Rucker for their new book I Alone Can Fix It, in which the reporters describe a moment when House Speaker Nancy Pelosi expressed her worries that then-President Trump would be willing to use nuclear weapons after the election.

Nancy Pelosi is a known nut-job, the Trump statement said. Her enraged quotes that she was afraid that I would use nuclear weapons is just more of the same. In fact, I was the one that got us out of wars, not into wars. And I was the one who got respect for our Country again, not like now when the leaders of the entire World are laughing at us. They didnt laugh when I was there!

Ms Pelosi spoke to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staffs General Mark Milley, wanting to be reassured that Mr Trump wouldnt be able to use nuclear weapons during his final days in office.

While it was already known publically that Ms Pelosi had spoken to Gen Milley, the contents of the discussion were not public. After Defence Secretary Mark Esper was fired in November 2020, Ms Pelosi and other lawmakers spoke to Gen Milley over the phone.

We are all trusting you, Ms Pelosi told Gen Milley, according to the book. Remember your oath.

After the insurrection on 6 January, Ms Pelosi spoke to Gen Milley again, telling him that Mr Trump was crazy, dangerous, and a maniac.

Maam, I guarantee you these processes are very good, Gen Milley reportedly responded. Theres not going to be an accidental firing of nuclear weapons.

How can you guarantee me? Ms Pelosi asked.

Maam, theres a process, Gen Milley said. We will only follow legal orders. Well only do things that are legal, ethical, and moral.

Mr Trump issuing a statement saying they didnt laugh when I was there led to the republishing of a video of a Trump speech at the United Nations in September 2018 when world leaders in the room laughed at Mr Trump after he said: In less than two years, my administration has accomplished more than almost any administration in the history of our country.

In December 2019 during a NATO summit, world leaders including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, French President Emmanuel Macron, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, and a woman who appeared to be Princess Anne of the UK, seemingly mocked Mr Trump behind his back during a discussion at Buckingham Palace.

 Trudeau, Macron and Johnson caught on camera making fun of Trump

In the interaction that was captured on video and subsequently went viral, Mr Johnson is heard asking Mr Macron, Is that why you were late?

He was late because he takes a 40-minute press conference off the top, Mr Trudeau added, appearing to be referring to Mr Trump.

The Canadian Prime Minister later added, you just watched his teams jaws drop to the floor, seemingly referring to Mr Trumps aides.
 Close Angela Merkel visits flood-hit area in Germany

The death toll across Germany and Belgium topped 180 on Sunday after rescue workers dug deeper into debris left by receding waters.

Some 155 people have been confirmed dead in Germany while 27 have died in Belgium.

After a visit to the flood-ravaged Rhineland-Palatinate region on Sunday, Chancellor Angela Merkel called the floods terrifying and pledged short-term relief to the victims, which she said would be launched on Wednesday.

It is shocking - I can almost say that the German language doesnt have words for the destruction thats been wreaked, she said.

Germanys finance minister Olaf Scholz has said that officials must begin setting up a rebuilding programme which is likely to cost billions.

He said he would propose a package of immediate aid, totalling at least 300 million euros (257 million), at a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday.

Some 65 people were evacuated from their homes in Germanys Berchtesgaden area after the Ache River swelled. At least one person was killed.

The floods have begun to spill over into Austria, where a flash flood swept through the town of Hallein late Saturday, although no casualties have been reported.

The military has been deployed to help aid the search and rescue mission and was seen using armoured vehicles to clear away cars and trucks overwhelmed by the floodwaters in Erftstadt, a town southwest of Cologne where the ground in a neighbourhood gave way.
A leaked document, purportedly from the Kremlin, claims Vladimir Putin personally ordered Russian spies to support a mentally unstable Donald Trump in his bid to become US president in 2016.

The Guardian newspaper reports that the Russian president personally authorised three spy agencies at a closed Russian national security council meeting to use all possible force to carry out the plan to ensure Trumps victory.

The meetings attendees reportedly agreed that Trump in the White House would bring about social turmoil in the US and would weaken his negotiating position, according to the alleged documents that are said to show Putins signature.

The meeting is said to have taken place on 22 January 2016  less than nine months before the US presidential election.

At that time, Trump was leading the race to become the Republican partys candidate for the elections. He then went on to win against the Democratic Partys candidate Hillary Clinton.

The Guardian claims that the document has been carefully examined by Western intelligence agencies for months.

It states that the Kremlin psychologically assessed Trump, who was succeeded by the Democrats Joe Biden last year, to have also been an impulsive person with conservative views and an inferiority complex.

The documents claim that the Kremlin had compromising information about Trump during his non-official visits to Moscow and planned to use this as leverage in dealings with the US. It refers to certain events that happened during his stay on Russian Federation territory but no dates or locations are revealed.

The Guardian wrote in its report: The papers, seen by the Guardian, seem to represent a serious and highly unusual leak from within the Kremlin.

The Guardian has shown the documents to independent experts who say they appear to be genuine. Incidental details come across as accurate. The overall tone and thrust is said to be consistent with Kremlin security thinking.

Previous intelligence reports have claimed Moscow had compromising material on Mr Trump.

Experts were split however, on whether the latest documents were genuine or not.

Andrei Soldatov, an expert on Russias security services, said the leaked documents reflect the reality of decision-making by senior Kremlin offcials, and noted that Putin micro-manages most special operations.

Sir Andrew Wood, former British ambassador in Moscow, described the documents as spell-binding, adding: They reflect the sort of discussion and recommendations you would expect. There is a complete misunderstanding of the US and China. They are written for a person [Putin] who cant believe he got anything wrong.

The Kremlin is claimed to have deemed Trump an impulsive person with an inferiority complex (Getty Images)

But some commentators urged caution over the alleged Kremlin leak.

Thomas Rid, a Professor of Strategic Studies at Johns Hopkins Universitys School of Advanced International Studies, said: This Guardian story is likely to make big waves. I would remain somewhat cautious for now, however.

For a leak of this magnitude, we need at least some details on the chain of custody.

Professor Rid said that paragraphs in the report make him particularly skeptical, such as the use of terms are understood to have been, seem to represent, and leak from within the Kremlin  that he said are used to distance the newspaper from the claims.

Chris Krebs, an American lawyer who had served as Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency in the US Department of Homeland Security, said the report seems like bait and reeks of a disinformation operation.

He added: It could all be individually or collectively true, and at the same time planted and fake.

Putins spokesman Dmitri Peskov said, when contacted by The Guardian, that the idea that Russian leaders had met and agreed to support Trump at the meeting was a great pulp fiction.
British Airways is reportedly encouraging passengers to check in their bags at Heathrow airport the night before their flight to avoid delays.

The bag drop off is available from 4-9pm the night before, and travellers are also being told they can check-in hand luggage free of charge.

According to the Daily Mail, passengers due to fly with BA from Heathrow are being sent the following message via text and email: The airport will be busy when you fly.

To save time and avoid long queues, you can check in your bag the day before you fly from 16:00 - 21:00 at London Heathrow T5.

You can also check-in hand baggage free of charge.

British Airways has emphasised that the practice isnt new, and that messages are occasionally sent out when the airport is expected to be particularly busy.

A BA spokesperson told The Independent: We are pleased to offer our long-standing twilight check-in service for customers to enable them to start their journey as relaxed as possible.

It follows reports of long queues at Heathrow earlier this week due to swathes of airport staff being pinged and told to self-isolate.

Passengers spoke of total chaos at Terminal 5 on Monday morning as a result of a staff shortage.

Social media was flooded with images of the disruption, all showing snaking queues for check-in desks and security.

One passenger said he estimated there were more than a thousand people trying to get through security at one point.

A Heathrow spokesperson confirmed to The Independent that the congestion in the departures area was due to staff members being told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace.

They added: We have activated additional team members to assist passengers with their journeys and the operation has now returned to normal. We apologise to our passengers for any inconvenience caused.

The main union for border force has also warned that four-hour queues at security are likely when the relaxation of the rules for vaccinated Brits entering England from amber countries comes into effect on 19 July.

This decision will open up foreign travel to a large number of new travellers, but we are not set up to cope with that sort of demand, Lucy Moreton, professional officer for the ISU immigration union, which represents border staff, told The Times.

From the number of bookings weve seen already, well easily see three, four-hour queues when people start returning.
After an uptick in coronavirus cases, the UK has been put on Cypruss red list for travel, effective from 8 July.

The move means that, while British travellers are still permitted to enter the country quarantine-free, they must submit to another PCR test on arrival, in addition to one 72 hours prior to departure.

The second test must be paid for by the traveller; it costs 30 at Larnaca airport and 32 at Paphos airport, and the results are available within three hours on the digital platform covid-testcyprus.com.

Children under 12 are exempt from testing, as are Britons who can prove theyve had two jabs of the Covid vaccine.

Travellers who can prove that they have received all necessary doses of an authorised vaccine will not be required to undergo any tests to visit Cyprus, irrespective of colour-categorisation of their country of departure, reads the Cypriot government guidance.

Moreover, they will not be placed in quarantine, even in the case when they are close contacts of a positive Covid-19 case.

Unless theyve had the one-dose Johnson and Johnson vaccine, travellers will be exempt from restrictions from the date of their second dose: The above facilitation will be valid from the date that both doses of a vaccine have been administered.

Visitors must also fill out a Cyprus Flight Pass prior to travel.

Cyprus is currently on the UKs own amber list, necessitating a Covid test before travel home, plus a 10-day quarantine and two PCR tests for returning travellers, regardless of vaccination status.

This means that unvaccinated passengers making a round-trip from the UK to Cyprus must stump up the cash for five tests in total  two on the outbound leg, three on the return journey.
Bulgaria has banned travellers from the UK just days after being added to the governments green list in the latest traffic light reshuffle.

The UK joins Cyprus, Spain, Fiji and Kuwait, along with 35 other destinations, on the Balkan nations red zone list.

Travellers from red zone countries are not allowed into Bulgaria, barring for a handful of exemptions, such as medical professionals and seasonal workers.

The UK was previously on Bulgarias amber list, but goes red as of 19 July - the same day that Bulgaria officially joins the UKs green list.

Elsewhere, there are tentative hopes that travel to the US could soon be possible again after Joe Biden said that an end date for the European travel ban could be revealed within days.

The President said that his Covid-19 team is actively assessing the situation throughout Europe and that his administration will announce when the ban on travel from Europe will be lifted in the days ahead.

We brought in the head of our Covid team, because the chancellor brought that subject up, Mr Biden said, referring to a conversation hed had with German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Its in the process of [seeing] how soon we can lift the ban.

Its in process now. And Ill be able to answer that question to you within the next several days, what is likely to happen. Im waiting to hear from our folks, from our Covid team, as to when that should be done.

The USs borders have long been shut to most international travellers.

The Foreign Office advice states: It is not possible for most British nationals to enter the USA if they have been in the UK, Ireland, Schengen zone, Iran, Brazil, China, South Africa or India within the previous 14 days.

Follow below for the latest travel updates:
Mauritius has opened its borders to fully vaccinated tourists  although visitors will not be permitted to leave their hotel for the first two weeks.

From 15 July until 30 September, as part of the first phase of its reopening, the Indian Ocean holiday island will welcome fully vaccinated visitors only to one of 14 resort bubbles.

Those who are unjabbed can still enter Mauritius, but must quarantine in a hotel for two weeks.

Holidaymakers must remain in their hotel bubble, and take PCR tests throughout their stay: on arrival at the airport, and on days seven and 14. They also must present a negative PCR test on arrival, taken between five and seven days before departure.

The rules for vaccinated travellers apply to those over the age of 18, but those under the age bracket must take the necessary PCR tests  including babies and infants.

Guests who stay for less than two weeks can leave the resort and fly straight home.

Phase two, which begins in October, will allow vaccinated travellers to enter Mauritius with no need to stay in their resort bubble; they must simply present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours.

The move follows a fast vaccine roll-out in Mauritius, which heavily depends on the income from international tourism. All tourism workers and hotel staff have been vaccinated.

As of 6 July, the island has had just under 2,000 cases in total, and has administered almost 620,000 vaccinations.

The safety and security of Mauritian citizens, residents, and those visiting the island is paramount and we are grateful to those who have cooperated throughout the pandemic to make this possible, said Hon. Steven Obeegadoo, deputy Prime Minister of Mauritius and minister of tourism.

The acceleration of our vaccination programme has enabled us to partially reopen our borders and we look forward to fully opening our borders in October.
Travel industry figures have reacted with fury after Spains Balearic Islands were downgraded to the UKs amber list.

Just two weeks after Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca gained quarantine-free status for returning holidaymakers, the transport secretary, Grant Shapps, has moved the islands back to amber.

From 4am on Monday 19 July, travellers from the Spanish islands arriving in the UK will need to self-isolate  unless they have completed a course of NHS vaccinations.

Tim Alderslade, chief executive of Airlines UK  representing British-registered carriers, said: Todays announcement reinforces the belief that the current government framework for international travel is not working as it was designed to.

While the vaccination programme is permitting a full reopening of the domestic economy, international travel between safe countries  with low infections and high vaccination rates  is still being portrayed as though it is a serious danger to public health.

Moving countries between the tiers like this is shattering consumer trust during an already unpredictable booking season.

It is time the government implemented a consistent and transparent travel policy, rather than the current rollercoaster ride of changes, which is condemning international travel to the status of second-class citizen.

Miles Morgan, who runs a chain of travel agencies, warned: Youngsters will now holiday down in Newquay where case rates are higher than the Balearics.

UK cases will explode still further. Where is the sense in that?

Virginia Messina, World Travel and Tourism Council senior vice president, said: This will throw summer holidays into disarray for tens of thousands of people.

Businesses given the lifeline of holidays to the Balearics will also be left floundering as bookings collapse and customers clamour for refunds, piling on further financial pressure.

Because fully jabbed holidaymakers will avoid quarantine, the Balearics move is unlikely to prompt a massive homebound rush  though fares are rising for flights in the next few days.

Its shambolic. Yesterday I had my happy face on, today its my stressed face, Ayrshire travel agent Linda Hill told BBC Radio Scotland.

My customers went with a caveat that this could happen, but we didnt expect it to happen inside two weeks.

A spokesperson for Abta, the travel association, said: The government needs to continue to capitalise on the successful vaccine rollout by expanding the green list in line with scientific evidence and reducing the need for and cost of testing, which is a significant barrier to travel for many people.

Bulgaria and Hong Kong were moved from amber to green, while Croatia and Taiwan join the green watchlist from which quarantine is not currently required  but may be imposed at short notice if they move back to amber.

Cuba, Sierra Leone, Myanmar and Indonesia have been moved from amber to red, requiring hotel quarantine for 11 nights for arriving travellers.

The data analyst Tim White had forecast Indonesias move  as well as predicting Russia. He tweeted: Quite astonishingly Mr Shapps again decides Russia is safe despite making up numbers, record death tallies which dont match case numbers.

The Department for Transport (DfT) said in a statement: All classification changes are decided by ministers. These are informed by the latest data and analysis by the Joint Biosecurity Centre (JBC) and wider public health factors.
From 17 May, international travel was given the official go-ahead in Britain by the Global Travel Taskforce, subject to a traffic light system.

The new rules mean each country or region is classified as red, amber or green, with restrictions of varying severity to match. The government has also introduced a green watchlist to identify which countries are most at risk of moving from green to amber.

But which destinations are high risk and what are the rules? Heres everything you need to know.

Which countries are on the red list?

The government has mandated hotel quarantine for Britons returning from high-risk or red list countries to stop new coronavirus infections and variants of concern entering the UK.

According to transport secretary Grant Shapps, red list countries are those which should not be visited except in the most extreme of circumstances.

Heres the full list after the latest reshuffle of the traffic light travel lists on 14 July:

Afghanistan

Angola

Argentina

Bahrain

Bangladesh

Bolivia

Botswana

Brazil

Burundi

Cape Verde

Chile

Colombia

Costa Rica

Cuba

Democratic Republic of Congo

Dominican Republic

Ecuador

Egypt

Eritrea

Eswatini

Ethiopia

French Guiana

Guyana

Haiti

India

Indonesia

Kenya

Lesotho

Malawi

Maldives

Mongolia

Mozambique

Myanmar

Namibia

Nepal

Oman

Pakistan

Panama

Paraguay

Peru

Philippines

Qatar

Rwanda

Seychelles

Sierra Leone

Somalia

South Africa

Sri Lanka

Sudan

Suriname

Tanzania

Trinidad and Tobago

Tunisia

Turkey

Uganda

United Arab Emirates

Uruguay

Venezuela

Zambia

Zimbabwe

The list was originally 30 countries long when hotel quarantine first came into effect on 15 February. Additional countries have since been added, and the full list is now comprised of 60 destinations after four places were added on 14 July, with changes coming into effect on 19 July at 4am.

The most recent additions were Cuba, Indonesia, Myanmar and Sierra Leone.

What determines whether a country is high risk?

As the move to use quarantine hotels is primarily in response to new variants of Covid-19, its likely that a country will be deemed high risk if one of the variants of concern has been identified there.

As well as the UKs own Kent variant, named B.1.1.7, other mutations have been found in South Africa (1.351), Brazil (P.1) and India (B.1.617.2). This last, known as the Delta variant, is anywhere between 30 and 100 per cent more transmissible than the Kent mutation and is already prevalent in the UK.

Read more: Who pays for hotel quarantine and how long will it last?

According to the second Global Travel Taskforce report, published on 9 April, the key factors in assessing a countrys risk factor are its rate of infection, the prevalence of variants of concern and the progress of its vaccination programme. Reliability of data and genomic sequencing capability are also taken into account.

International travel hubs, such as the UAE, are also deemed to be high risk due to the number of passengers catching connecting flights from all over the world.

 22 countries on quarantine hotel list, Boris Johnson announces

Where will high risk travellers stay and how will they get there?

A number of hotels have been contracted for the mandatory quarantine for all red list arrivals. Bath Road, which runs parallel to the runway at London Heathrow airport, has been dubbed Isolation Row.

Recommended Airline industry fury at hotel quarantine plans

Travellers are privately escorted to their quarantine hotel upon arrival.

Fines of up to 10,000 apply to arrivals who fails to undergo the stipulated hotel quarantine, while people who misrepresent their travel history on the passenger locator forms face up to 10 years in prison.

Travellers must finance the quarantine themselves, at a cost of 1,750 per person for those travelling alone, which includes 10 days' (11 nights') room and board. Additional people in the same hotel room pay significantly less. The second person pays only 650, with further discounts for children: 325 each. A family of four staying together pays 3,050.

How long is quarantine?

The current quarantine for all red list arrivals into the UK is 10 days and 11 nights.

What about all other arrivals?

Travellers from countries on the amber list need to self-isolate for 10 days at home and take two PCR tests on days two and eight of self-isolation, with the chance of early release in England if they pay for another test after five days.

For travellers returning from countries on the green list, there is no need to quarantine on return, but a pre-booked post-arrival PCR test will be needed. It must be taken on the day of arrival (day zero), the day after (day one) or the following day (day two).

However, from 19 July, the line between amber and green is becoming blurred for vaccinated travellers.

Brits who have received their second jab at least 14 days prior and accompanying under 18s can forgo quarantine when entering England from amber countries, instead following the same relaxed protocols as green list arrivals.

They need only take one pre-departure lateral flow test and one PCR test within two days of arriving in England.
To no ones surprise, new reports indicate that Donald Trump referred to German Chancellor Angela Merkel as that b***h and to Germans in general as krauts. These are among the revelations in the forthcoming book I Alone Can Fix It: Donald J. Trumps Catastrophic Final Year by Carol Leonnig and Philip Rucker.

The anecdotes are yet more confirmation that Trumps foreign policy was a chaotic and spiteful mess driven by personal animus, bigotry, and ego. His promise to break with the Washington consensus and focus on America First turned out not to be a pragmatic, hard-nosed reassessment of strategic aims, but a farrago of selfishness and confusion.

Trumps open contempt for the rest of the world was a decisive break with the rhetoric of his predecessors. Democratic and Republican administrations in the Cold War and since had mostly embraced a foreign policy of (purportedly) benevolent engagement and widespread intervention. From Eisenhower to Obama, American presidents have declared their intention to spread democracy and combat totalitarianism. The United States made military and moral commitments in Europe and Asia which protected free nations from aggression and created the conditions in which new democracies could flourish, as George W. Bush said in 2003. Bush, like other American presidents, defines American interests and global interests as congruent.

Trump instead embraced nationalism and US self-interest openly. He didnt claim to care about building democracy in the Middle East; he just said he wanted to take the regions oil. He disliked international alliances, and kept insisting he wanted to pull out of NATO because European nations werent paying their share of the defense burden. He even curtailed US contact with the World Health Organization during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Many, in America and abroad weary, of hypocritical and self-serving rhetoric, were optimistic about Trumps new, supposedly more honest foreign policy approach. Some commenters even hoped it would lead Trump to be less likely to invade other countries. The reasoning was that America has traditionally gone to war out of starry-eyed idealism, in an effort to remake other nations in our own virtuous image. Since Trump didnt care about the rest of the world, hed leave it alone.

That is not how things worked out, though. Instead, Trumps foreign policy of nationalism turned out to be a foreign policy not of honesty or isolationism, but rather one based on Trumps whims and personal selfishness. He was less interested in advancing US interests than in advancing his own political and personal fortune, which he defined both narcissistically and erratically.

For instance, Trump likes to think of himself as strong and powerful and brutal. As a result, he often associated himself with and praised dictatorial leaders like North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un. He even specifically praised Russian leader Vladimir Putin for his authoritarianism, enthusing that the man has very strong control over a country.

In contrast, Trump chafed at having to negotiate with equals and peers, and often lashed out at longtime allies. He called Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau very dishonest and weak, and sneered at French President Emmanuel Macrons low approval rating. He called Merkel stupid in a phone call  so again, its not surprising to hear he insulted her in private as well.

On substantive policy, too, Trump veered wildly about. He vetoed efforts to withdraw from the conflict in Yemen, vastly expanded US drone strikes, and did his best to scupper the US nuclear deal with Iran. On the other hand, he initiated a sudden and chaotic US withdrawal from Syria which put Kurdish people in great danger. The Trump Doctrine wasnt a committed principle of non-intervention so much as a series of scattered decisions based on momentary whims and who had talked to the president last.

Trump did hew stoutly to certain policies. He clung to tariffs with China that badly damaged the US economy for little gain. And he was committed to using American foreign policy to tamper in US elections. He was impeached because (as he admitted on live television) he repeatedly tried to blackmail Ukraine into launching investigations into Trumps Democratic rival (and now president) Joe Biden.

Trumps appeal for many was always that he supposedly would tell it like it was. He eschewed the mealy-mouthed language of diplomacy and the conventions of altruistic pretense. In crudely insulting Angela Merkel, he was essentially fulfilling his campaigns promises to strip government of pretense. Instead of hypocrisy, America would approach the world with open, curdled belligerence.

But open, curdled belligerence is, as it turns out, a poor approach to coordinating an international pandemic response. Its not a great way to facilitate peace either. Diplomats use mealy-mouthed language because when youre trying to reduce the possibility of conflict and violence, you need to choose your words carefully. Its not actually in Americas interest, or in anyones interest, for the president to insult vast swathes of the worlds population.

Hypocrisy is ugly. But promising to cut through the hypocrisy so you can wallow in naked greed, corruption and cruelty isnt pretty either. Americas foreign policy of regularized invasion and bombing in the name of democracy has been a disaster for the world. But the Trump alternative of crude provocation and violent racism for its own sake has not been a notable improvement.

Insulting Angela Merkel is not the worst thing Trump ever did. But its emblematic of his foreign policy of self-indulgence and failure.
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Mam | Marketing

Gupshup launches conversational OOH ads across Mumbai Conversational Messaging platform Gupshup has launched conversational out-of-home (OOH) ads across Mumbai city. These phygital ad formats take traditional physical advertising surfaces like billboards, bus shelters, airport terminals, cabs and metro stations, and trains and convert them into interactive surfaces with the addition of a QR code. Read More...

Mam | Media And Advertising Digital Refresh Networks bags mandate of Mia, Motherhood IVF & iKounsellor Digital Refresh Networks, an integrated creative and digital marketing solutions company, has bagged the digital mandate for three leading brands: Mia by Tanishq, Motherhood IVF, and iKounsellor. As a part of the mandate, the agency will be in charge of delivering SEO management, content, social media, and performance marketing for these brands. Read More...
An energy company with a history of environmental violations is conducting exploratory drilling in the Yukon Flats

By Max Graham.

Every spring, the shallow ponds and spruce forests of the Yukon Flats, in Interior Alaska, stir with the flapping of scoters and scaups, the laugh-like yelps of white-fronted geese and the high-pitched whistle of wigeons. Up to 2 million birds arrive each year to nest in some of North Americas most productive waterfowl breeding grounds. Along with salmon, moose and other wildlife, they provide food for the human residents of the region, where a half-gallon of milk can cost $7.99.

Its not only our subsistence, said Rochelle Adams, a member of the Gwichyaa Zhee Gwichin Tribal Government of Fort Yukon, who is from the villages of Fort Yukon and Beaver. Its our connection to the lands and waters. Its a part of our identity, because our people have lived here since our creation.

This summer, drilling rigs will join the wildlife in the Yukon Flats, as Hilcorp Alaska, a private company with a reputation for regulatory violations, explores for oil and gas. Hilcorp is operating under a 2019 agreement with Doyon Ltd., an Alaska Native regional corporation, which owns 1.6 million acres of mineral rights bordering the Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge. The companies plans have raised concerns among local tribes and exposed the complicated dynamics between for-profit Alaska Native corporations and sovereign tribal governments.

Soon after Doyon announced its deal with Hilcorp, the Gwichyaa Zhee Gwichin Tribal Government passed a resolution opposing oil and gas development in the Yukon Flats, citing worries about environmental degradation, threats to traditional ways of life and infringements on tribal sovereignty. Last fall, the board of the Tanana Chiefs Conference, which represents 42 tribal governments in Alaskas Interior, also opposed the project. What we get to consume here is the most unadulterated food on the planet, said Dacho Alexander, a Gwichyaa Zhee Tribal Government council member and former chief. Our water is clean. Our environment is clean. Theres just simply no dollar amount that you could put on those places.

To Alexander, Doyons push to explore for fossil fuels illustrates a major disconnect between Alaska Native regional corporations and tribal governments. Unlike federally recognized tribes, which are sovereign nations, Alaska Native corporations are for-profit companies owned by Alaska Native shareholders, who receive annual dividends of a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. They were created under the 1971 federal Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act to give tribal members economic autonomy, primarily through ownership of natural resources. Today, Doyon is the largest private landowner in Alaska, with more than 20,000 shareholders.

Its our connection to the lands and waters. Its a part of our identity, because our people have lived here since our creation.

A lot of people seem to give Alaska Native corporations a pass because they are titled Alaska Native corporations, Alexander said. There is this view that what they are doing is in the best interest of the people. But even when individual shareholders do not want to develop natural resources, Alexander said, theyre represented by board members whose duty is to the corporations bottom line. Doyon did not notify its shareholders, according to Alexander and Adams, both shareholders, and did not consult all tribal governments in the Yukon Flats before announcing its deal with Hilcorp in December 2019. (Doyon refused to comment for this story.)

Now, Doyon and Hilcorp are proceeding to drill 15 stratigraphic boreholes  shallow test wells for soil analysis  near the Gwichin villages of Birch Creek and Fort Yukon by the end of summer. Doyon has promised that oil and gas development will bring economic opportunity to the region. The company entered into a cooperation agreement with Tihteet Aii, the Birch Creek village corporation, but neither entity has released specifics about it or the projected economic benefits. (Tihteet Aii did not respond to requests for comment, and the Birch Creek Tribal Government declined to comment.)

Doyons press releases assert that Hilcorps drilling this summer will not cause environmental damage. Yet opponents worry that exploration could lead to long-term development, and they have concerns about Hilcorps environmental record: The company, which bought all of BPs fossil fuel assets and interests in Alaska in 2020 and is now one of the states biggest oil and gas producers, has been responsible for numerous natural gas leaks in Alaskas Cook Inlet. In a 2015 letter to Hilcorp, the chair of the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, which regulates fossil fuel production in the state, wrote that regulatory noncompliance is endemic to the companys approach. Since then, Hilcorp has accrued three times more citations than each of Alaskas biggest oil producers during that time, ConocoPhillips and BP, according to state documents High Country News obtained via a records request.

As Hilcorp begins drilling in the Yukon Flats, Adams, who started a Facebook group to raise awareness of the project, recalled a 2017 leak from a Hilcorp gas pipeline in Cook Inlet that lasted for about four months. I cant even imagine what can happen to the Yukon River, which bisects the Flats, she said. I dont want to imagine.

Max Graham is a journalist based in Homer, Alaska. As a Yale Parker Huang Fellow, he is researching environmental initiatives on both sides of the Bering Strait. Follow him on Twitter @maxmugrah. Originally published in High Country News July 6, 2021.
Twenty-year-old Disha Ravi is a climate activist who took the nation by storm after she was arrested for sharing Greta Thunberg's farmers' toolkit in Feb.

The activist recently discussed the climate crisis with Bollywood actress Dia Mirza, who is UN Environment Goodwill Ambassador & United Nations Secretary-General Advocate for Sustainable Development Goals.

TNM

Hours after announcing the birth of her son, Dia Mirza was back at work. She went live on her Instagram handle to discuss climate change with Disha Ravi.

Dia emphasized that it's important for us to leave the planet in good condition so that our future generations can have a good future.

Instagram

Sharing the video, Dia wrote, "Disha is a 22-year-old climate activist from Bengaluru, India. She is one of the most resilient, brave and inspiring young people working with the @fridaysforfuture.india. When she was younger she witnessed her grandparents who are farmers impacted by the #ClimateCrises and this set her on the path of personal enquiry and action #ForNature. She is passionate about ensuring that the voices for MAPA  Most Affected People & Areas are represented in Climate Conversations and negotiations."



In the video, Disha can be seen talking about the shortage of water. Since she belongs to a farmers family, she has seen how scarcity of water affects on-ground workers.



Dia also talked about how distressed she felt when Dia was arrested. "I was so relieved when you were released." Dia also shared how she would never forget her statements like "Ideas do not die" and "truth no matter how long it takes always remains itself".

She also spoke about MAPA (Most Affected People & Areas) and their representation in global climate conversations.


The use of sedition law (Section 124A IPC) in India has always been controversial and many including Constitutional experts have said that we should do away with the law in view of the changing times.

From activists to journalists and government critics, all have regularly been targeted by the authorities using the controversial law.

Reuters

UK abolished it

One of the biggest arguments those opposed to the law have made is that the sedition law in India is a colonial-era legacy and even the UK have abolished it.

Now, the Supreme Court of India too has made a similar observation and asked the Central government if the country still needs such a law.

PTI

"It is a colonial law used by the British to silence Mahatma Gandhi, Tilak. Still, it is necessary after 75 years of independence?" Chief Justice NV Ramana said while expressing concern on sedition law being misused by police against persons who speak against the government.

The top court pointed out that sedition law is also not immune to misuse by police against persons who speak against the government. "It is like you give a saw to carpenter, he will cut the entire forest. This is the impact of this law", said the Chief Justice.

BCCL

He further elaborated that police officers even in a village can invoke sedition law, and all these issues are required to be examined. "My concern is the misuse of law. There is no accountability of executing agencies. I will look into it", said the Chief Justice.

"Why you are not looking into this law"

The Chief Justice told AG, the government has already taken out several stale laws, "I don't know why you are not looking into this law".

"Take the 66A IT Act, thousands of cases were registered even after being struck down. If any police wants to fix somebody, it can invoke Section 124A also. Everybody is a little scared when this section is invoked. These are all issues that need to be looked into. Our concern is the misuse of the law and no accountability of the executive," Justice Ramana said.

The Chief Justice said that the apex court would look into the plea challenging the Constitutional validity of Section 124A.

BCCL

"The situation on the ground is grave. If one party does not like what the other is saying, Section 124A is used. It is a serious threat to the functioning of individuals and parties," the top court observed.

The Court was hearing a plea filed by retired army veteran SG Vombatkere challenging the provision contending that it violates freedom of speech and expression and is disproportionate to the object it seeks to achieve.

BCCL

Attorney General KK Venugopal agreed with the concerns of the apex court and said that the SC can lay down fresh guidelines to restrict the use of the sedition provision only for protection of nation and democratic institutions, a view aired by the CJI.
Thailand's effort to rescue its ailing tourism industry took another step forward as it reopened the island of Samui and three nearby islands starting Thursday for vaccinated foreign visitors, despite an outbreak of the COVID-19 delta variant in the country.

Rules for tourists

The islands -- Samui, Tao and Phangan -- welcomed visitors under its "sandbox" scheme, launched on July 1. The scheme allows vaccinated travellers to visit Phuket island. It also states that tourists do not have to quarantine in a hotel but can not leave Phuket for two weeks.

AP

It said tourists must stay at an approved hotel on Samui for a week and can leave their accommodation on day four. They will have to produce a negative Covid-19 test before being allowed to venture to Tao or Phangan after their first week.

Tourism boost

The reopening of Samui and its neighbors is slow compared to the island of Phuket, which began welcoming vaccinated tourists two weeks ago.

Phuket has received 5,000 foreign tourists since its reopening, 10 of whom have tested positive for Covid-19. Authorities are not expecting a big influx of tourists immediately to Samui and the other two islands.

Reuters

Tourism Association of Koh Samui president Ratchaporn Poolsawadee described Thursday's start of the "Samui Plus" scheme as a soft opening. He said 75 percent of residents on the three islands were vaccinated.



"It is expected that arrivals will improve after tourists learn the rules and regulations. And then some rules and regulations could be tweaked," Ratchaporn told AFP.

AP

Struggle with Delta variant

The rest of the country is struggling to rein in infections from the Delta variant, which authorities say now makes up nearly 80 percent of its caseload. Virus hotspot Bangkok and nine provinces are under tightened restrictions, including a night-time curfew and a ban on gatherings of more than five people.

Bangkok is keen to see the country's vital tourism industry fully back on its feet by mid-October. Before COVID, tourism and related sectors accounted for 20% of the country's gross domestic product.

Reuters

Thailand recorded almost 9,200 new infections and a record daily high of 98 deaths on Thursday.


Microsoft could be bringing back the infamous Office Clippy assistant in the form of an emoji on Microsoft Teams, and not everyone is happy about it.

And if you have used any of the older Microsoft Office offline packs in the 2000s, you know how irritatingly cute Clippy could be.

If this gets 20k likes, well replace the paperclip emoji in Microsoft 365 with Clippy. pic.twitter.com/6T8ziboguC  Microsoft (@Microsoft) July 14, 2021

ALSO READ: Satya Nadella's Microsoft To Give Rs 1.12 Lakh As Pandemic Bonus To All Employees

Microsoft shared a tweet with an image of Clippy where it asked its followers that if it gets over 20,000 likes on the image, it would bring back the mascot in Microsoft 365 as an emoji. This target was achieved just within an hour of posting the tweet.

Soon after, Xboxs official Twitter handle tweeted Free Clippy chiming in with the world.

Free Clippy!  Xbox (@Xbox) July 14, 2021

But it wasnt just Microsofts brands that wanted Clippy back, even Oreo cookies official handle tweeted saying, This unlocked the deepest part of our memory.

This unlocked the deepest part of our memory   OREO Cookie (@Oreo) July 14, 2021

In case youre someone who has been using Windows, specifically Microsoft Office since the late 1990s - early 2000s, youd definitely remember an anthropomorphised paper clip with beady little eyes and a nose made from the end of the clip wire that some either found too cute or too creepy.

ALSO READ: Microsoft's Income Grew By 30% Despite Pandemic, Thanks To Xbox, Cloud Services



CNN

This digital creature was named Clippy and it was a part of Microsoft Office 1997, it would often pop to the side, whenever youd be working on a document or spreadsheet, offering tips even when you didn't really need them.



While some thought of the constant poking of tips as helpful, some found them really annoying. This to a point that even Microsoft found it unbearable and it eventually killed off Clippy in Office XP in 2001.

But just like the toxic ex that can reignite the spark of love after countless heartbreaks and pain in the hope of starting afresh, people seem to be a bit more optimistic of Clippy. Or maybe its the fans who have really risen to the occasion to resurrect the tiny digital assistant. If it's any consolation, the new 3D design for Clippy does look kinda cute or whatever.

ALSO READ: Microsoft Will Let Employees Work From Home Permanently If They Choose To: Report



Microsoft

We dont really know if Clippy would make its re-entry to Microsoft Office though, as of now it has only received the necessary target of likes and Microsoft hasnt really revealed more about it. If it does come back more than just a It will be interesting to see how Clippy is resurrected.


Researchers from the University of California, San Diego have developed a prototype device that can generate electricity from the sweat that gets built up on your fingers and they claim that wearing it for 10 hours could generate enough power to run a watch for a good 24 hours.

Lu Yin

Also Read: New Fabric Instantly Absorbs Sweat From Body And Turns It Into Electricity

Published in journal Joule, (reported first by Daily Mail) researchers highlight that our fingertips have the highest concentrations of sweat glands in the body -- each one of the glands produces 100 and 1000 times more perspiration than other areas of the body.

The way the prototype does this is by producing small amounts of electricity when the wearer of the device starts pressing surfaces, causing sweat formation. The device is loaded with electrical conductors made from a carbon foam that absorbs sweat from fingers. The enzymes on the electrode enable a chemical reaction between the sweat molecules of lactate and oxygen to generate electricity.

There is a small chip under the electrodes made from piezoelectric material that also generates power when it is pressed and stores it in a small capacitor to be discharged onto devices whenever needed.

Co-first author doctoral student Lu Yin explains, The size of the device is about one centimetre squared. Its material is flexible as well, so you don't need to worry about it being too rigid or feeling weird. You can comfortably wear it for an extended period of time.

For testing this out, a test subject was asked to perform various tasks while wearing it on their finger that involved typing, tapping and even sleeping.

Also Read: New Material Inspired From Camel Keeps Perishable Food Cool Without Electricity

In the 10 hours of sleeping duration, the device managed to generate 400 millijoules of energy which is enough to power an electric wristwatch for a whole day. On the other hand, an hour of casual typing and clicking on a mouse enabled the device to collect around 30 millijoules.

Lu Yin

Also Read: Scientists Make Cloth That Can Be Flipped Inside Out To Feel Warmer Or Colder

Yin added, Our goal is to make this a practical device,' adding that they wanted to show it wasn't just another cool thing that could generate small amounts of power. We can actually use the energy to power useful electronics such as sensors and displays.

Yin stated that theyre working on developing more efficient and durable energy collection systems. Moreover, theyre also fusing it with other kinds of energy harvesters to create new kinds of self-powered devices.
Ever since the coronavirus pandemic came into being last year, wearing a face mask has become a norm. However, despite repeated tutorials on how to wear a face mask properly (yes, some people required tutorials), it seems like the concept is lost on some.

Making matters worse even as the third wave is expected to hit India more harshly than the horrifying second one, a Uttarakhand minister was photographed sitting in a meeting with his face mask hanging off his toe.

Now, due to obvious reasons, the photo has gone viral and minister Swami Yatishwaranand has received backlash for his actions.

Twitter

Yatishwaranand is a Minister of State in Uttarakhand's BJP government and he is not the only one in the photo without a mask. Four other people in the meeting are seen without masks, including two more ministers, Bishan Singh Chuphal and Subodh Uniyal.



'This is the seriousness of the ruling party's ministers. Then they go ahead and punish poor people for not wearing masks,' tweeted Congress spokesperson Garima Dasauni.

Dasauni further questioned the kind of message the minister is giving to the people, especially because lakhs of people suffered and lost lives during the second wave of COVID-19.

Another Congress leader, Pankaj Punia took to Twitter to mock the minister and said, 'Learn how to wear a face mask properly from Uttarakhand cabinet minister Yatishwaranand.'

AAP spokesperson Amarjit Singh Rawat said that Swami Yatishwaranand should apologise.

This is not the first time the Uttarakhand government has been called out for its callousness towards the handling of the pandemic. After the mayhem caused by the Kumbh Mela during the second wave, the state cancelled the annual Kanwar pilgrimage.
Jimmy Sheirgill seems to have done this film merely to add some pocket-money, and tries to salvage the film with his mere presence. (trailer grab)
Mary Jobaida is making her second bid for the New York state Assembly. The Bangladeshi American is running unopposed at the moment. (photo via Twitter)
Indian American Seema Nanda has been confirmed as Solicitor at the U.S. Department of Labor. She is seen here (right) with Yahoo Finance's Rick Newman during the Yahoo Finance All Markets Summit: America's Financial Future At The Newseum In Washington D.C. on Nov. 13, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images for Yahoo Finance)




Join the protest outside the Robert F. Peckham Federal Court House, 280 S. 1st Street, San Jose, California on on the day of his court appearance, Tuesday, July 20, 2021, at noon



He risked his freedom to free me from the Orange County Jail so I am asking you to help us free Chris. - Keith McHenry - cofounder of the global movement Food Not Bombs.



Christopher Doyon was captured at his home outside Mexico City on June 12, 2021, was extradited to the United States and is being held in Santa Rita Jail in Dublin, California. He had humanitarian refugee status while he was waiting on his asylum decision. There is some concern that his status may have changed at the request of the United States during Kamala Harriss June 9th visit to Mexico City.



Christopher Doyons campaigns of cyber nonviolent direct action in defense of the poor and oppressed is commendable. He not only supported the rights of the homeless and Food Not Bombs here in the United States Chris joined Anonymous in providing cyber support for activists in the Middle East and Northern Africa during the Arab Spring and contributed to the campaign to defend WikiLeaks when Visa and MasterCard cut off access to funding.



Christopher Doyon should be free.



When McHenry was locked up in the Orange County Jail in Orlando in 2011 for the crime of sharing food with the hungry Mr McHenry did three interviews. The TV reporters asked if I it bothered him that local websites had been disrupted possibly costing the Orlando tourist industry tens of thousands of dollars.

He responded, Nobody is falling off a tree or anything or dying because someone can't read a website about an attraction or something are they? Dont they still have phones? It just doesn't seem that serious to me.



Doyon also has a second case from Santa Cruz, California where he had been homeless and was participating in a protest against the city's policy of dehumanizing those who live outside. According to the 2011 Federal indictment, a December 16, 2010, DDoS attack was orchestrated as part of Operation Peace Camp 2010 in retaliation for the enforcement of the camping ban. The City of Santa Cruz enacted Section 6.36.010 of its Municipal Code, entitled Camping Prohibited, which contained restrictions and definitions on camping within Santa Cruz City.



This sleeping ban law was made even more repressive in early June changing its title to Camping Services and Standards Ordinance. The law officially took effect on July 9, 2021, and could be used to justify the relocation of all unhoused to some as not yet defined facilities that could include a dusk to dawn safe sleeping site in a parking lot.



Chris Doyon and Keith McHenry were broadcasting a weekly live podcast from Freedom Camp at San Lorenzo Park in Santa Cruz when Commander X was extradited to the United States. This is the last program Doyon did just days before he was captured. X Speaks: The World Through Sunglasses - Episode 5 Volume 3: Free Commander X aka Christopher Doyon - Nonviolent cyber activist defending the rights of the homeless has court appearanceJoin the protest outside the Robert F. Peckham Federal Court House, 280 S. 1st Street, San Jose, California on on the day of his court appearance, Tuesday, July 20, 2021, at noonHe risked his freedom to free me from the Orange County Jail so I am asking you to help us free Chris. - Keith McHenry - cofounder of the global movement Food Not Bombs.Christopher Doyon was captured at his home outside Mexico City on June 12, 2021, was extradited to the United States and is being held in Santa Rita Jail in Dublin, California. He had humanitarian refugee status while he was waiting on his asylum decision. There is some concern that his status may have changed at the request of the United States during Kamala Harriss June 9th visit to Mexico City.Christopher Doyons campaigns of cyber nonviolent direct action in defense of the poor and oppressed is commendable. He not only supported the rights of the homeless and Food Not Bombs here in the United States Chris joined Anonymous in providing cyber support for activists in the Middle East and Northern Africa during the Arab Spring and contributed to the campaign to defend WikiLeaks when Visa and MasterCard cut off access to funding.Christopher Doyon should be free.When McHenry was locked up in the Orange County Jail in Orlando in 2011 for the crime of sharing food with the hungry Mr McHenry did three interviews. The TV reporters asked if I it bothered him that local websites had been disrupted possibly costing the Orlando tourist industry tens of thousands of dollars.He responded, Nobody is falling off a tree or anything or dying because someone can't read a website about an attraction or something are they? Dont they still have phones? It just doesn't seem that serious to me.Doyon also has a second case from Santa Cruz, California where he had been homeless and was participating in a protest against the city's policy of dehumanizing those who live outside. According to the 2011 Federal indictment, a December 16, 2010, DDoS attack was orchestrated as part of Operation Peace Camp 2010 in retaliation for the enforcement of the camping ban. The City of Santa Cruz enacted Section 6.36.010 of its Municipal Code, entitled Camping Prohibited, which contained restrictions and definitions on camping within Santa Cruz City.This sleeping ban law was made even more repressive in early June changing its title to Camping Services and Standards Ordinance. The law officially took effect on July 9, 2021, and could be used to justify the relocation of all unhoused to some as not yet defined facilities that could include a dusk to dawn safe sleeping site in a parking lot.Chris Doyon and Keith McHenry were broadcasting a weekly live podcast from Freedom Camp at San Lorenzo Park in Santa Cruz when Commander X was extradited to the United States. This is the last program Doyon did just days before he was captured. X Speaks: The World Through Sunglasses - Episode 5 Volume 3: http://xspeaks.rf.gd/pages/ep5.html Added to the calendar on Thursday Jul 15th, 2021 12:16 PM
Forney, TX (75126)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms. High near 90F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 71F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
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A federal judge has dismissed a Yale University students attempt to sue the university for partial compensation for virtual online learning during the height of the pandemic last year.

The Yale undergraduate student Jonathan Michel filed a class-action lawsuit against the university for the full tuition payment he and other students made to the school in the spring 2020 semester before the pandemic forced universities across the country to switch to remote virtual learning, the Hartford Courant reported Thursday.

The judge dismissed the suit because the school is protected from giving tuition reimbursements due to regulations that give it approval to close programs and not issue refunds during a public health or security concerns.

Michel argued in his lawsuit that Yale closed its campus and facilities for the rest of the spring but also made spelled out promises to students about being a part of an on-campus community and have access to the schools facilities, the newspaper reported.

This lawsuit is one of hundreds filed across the country by students or their parents attempting to reclaim tuition payments during the pandemic.

The suits argue that when the students made full tuition payments, they signed up for a full-time, on-campus experience.

In many cases, the courts have sided with the schools because of educational malpractice, which says courts are not equipped to issue decisions on whether online education is inferior to in-person learning.

Others have ruled in favor of the students, ignoring the benefits of in-person and online person and concluding students paid for in-person learning and they didnt receive it during the pandemic.

The judge said that it was not necessary to weigh the benefits of online and in-person learning at Yale because its regulations warn students of program suspensions and refunds.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits Legislation
Coalition, the San Francisco-based cyber insurance and security company, announced it will enter the excess cyber insurance market in Canada to help protect businesses with enhanced coverage.

With the coverage, Coalition will provide free access to Coalitions cyber-security capabilities, including attack surface monitoring, an in-house response team of security experts, and a suite of services and tools.

Coalition, which is a managing general agent, began offering excess cyber insurance in the United States in July 2020.

Coalition will extend its reach beyond primary insurance coverage in Canada to provide brokers with excess cyber liability and technology errors & omissions insurance for accounts with up to C$5 million (US$4 million) in aggregate limits for companies with up to C$1 billion (US$800,000) in revenue.

This new excess capacity is backed by the financial security of Arch Insurance Canada Ltd. (AM Best A+ Superior).

Coalition launched in Canada in May of 2020 and has since become one of the countrys largest writers of cyber insurance, offering up to C$20 million (US$16 million) of comprehensive insurance coverage supported by the financial strength of Swiss Re Corporate Solutions and Arch Capital Group Ltd. to companies with up to C$1 billion (US$800,000) in annual revenue.

Since launching in 2020, weve grown one of the largest dedicated cyber teams in the market and have built an on-the-ground incident response function to protect Canadian companies, said Shawn Ram, head of Insurance at Coalition.

Adding excess insurance to our offering in Canada provides brokers with more options to protect their clients and access Coalitions cybersecurity tools and services. As the broader cyber marketplace continues to harden and retreat, Coalition is looking for new ways to expand its reach, maintaining stable and planned growth in the US and Canada, Ram continued.

Backed by Swiss Re Corporate Solutions, Arch Capital Group Ltd., Lloyds of London, and Argo Group, Coalition provides companies with up to US$15 million of cyber and technology insurance coverage in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as C$20 million (US$16 million) of coverage across nine provinces and three territories in Canada. Coalitions team is global with employees based across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Portugal.

Source: Coalition

Topics Cyber Trends Excess Surplus Market New Markets Canada
Allianz Holdings, the UK subsidiary of Allianz SE, has restructured its operations, to create distinct Personal and Commercial businesses, supported by a number of integrated service functions.

These changes represent the next phase in Allianzs integration of the LV= General Insurance (LV= GI) and L&G General Insurance (L&G GI) businesses and will simplify and streamline its operations, said the company in a statement, explaining that the new structure is designed around customer needs and the opportunity to focus on and share technical excellence and expertise.

Simon McGinn becomes CEO of Allianz Commercial and Steve Treloar becomes CEO of Allianz Personal.

Reporting into Jon Dye, CEO, Allianz Holdings, they will both sit on the Allianz Holdings management board alongside the heads of the service functions  Fernley Dyson, chief financial officer, Julie Harrison, chief HR officer, Stephanie Smith, chief operations officer and John Berry, chief risk officer.

These changes are effective immediately, subject to regulatory approval.

These changes are the next step on our journey as we continue to build a well-balanced business that puts the customer at its heart and maintains a clear and resolute focus on delivering our business priorities, said Dye.

There are clear differences between Commercial and Personal trading in the UK market and the new structure will help us build upon the successful propositions already in place, he added. Our simplified structure and streamlined, cohesive senior team will enable us to be more agile, responsive and collaborative.

Details of the two businesses follow here.

Allianz Commercial

Allianz Commercial will comprise Allianzs Mid-Corp Commercial, Engineering, Construction & Power, SME and Legal Protection businesses.

In his new role as CEO of Allianz Commercial, Simon McGinn will be responsible for distribution, claims, underwriting, marketing and pricing for each of those business areas.

He will work closely with his new executive team which will include Graham Gibson, chief claims officer, who will also be responsible for Engineering Inspection. This brings customer delivery in claims and service under one leader ensuring a clear focus on delivering exceptional customer experience.

Catherine Dixon is promoted to the position of chief underwriting officer, with Nick Hobbs as chief distribution and regions officer, bringing distribution, regional underwriting and commercial broker operations into one place.

Gaby Tischler and Helen Bryant will continue in their roles as director, market management and strategy and director, digital trading respectively. A new director of pricing and data role has also been created with recruitment underway.

Our new structure gives us a clear focus on our Commercial business and is designed to provide market-leading levels of support and expertise to deliver for our brokers and customers and maximise our potential in the market, said McGinn.

Allianz Personal

Allianz Personal will comprise the LV= Retail business, LV= Broker, L&G GI, Petplan, Home & Legacy and Allianz Musical Insurance.

Led by Steve Treloar, the new business unit will have gross written premiums of 2.6 billion with 8.5 million customers and around 5,000 employees, making it one of the largest personal lines insurers in the UK. As well as being CEO of Allianz Personal, Treloar will remain CEO of LV= GI.

The LV= Retail business will also continue to be led by Heather Smith as managing director, while Mike Crane will maintain responsibility for LV= Broker and L&G GI as managing director and CEO respectively. Kieran OKeeffe will take up a new role as managing director for specialty, leading the Petplan, Home & Legacy and Allianz Musical Insurance businesses. Prior to taking on this role, OKeeffe was the chief risk officer for LV= GI.

Reorganization Brings Some Departures

As a result of these changes, a number of senior people within Allianz will be leaving the business. Following 18 successful years in the company, Neil Clutterbuck has decided the time is right to pursue new opportunities, said Allianz.

Meanwhile, Sarah Mallaby, Chris Little and Gary Davess will be leaving as a result of their specific roles no longer existing in the new structure.

Neil, Sarah, Chris and Gary have all made very significant contributions to our business. Its never easy to see people go, but Im incredibly grateful for all their hard work and commitment and wish them all the best for the future, said Dye.

Source: Allianz Insurance

Topics Commercial Lines Allianz
Storms caused heavy flooding across parts of western and central Europe overnight, with one man missing after being swept away by a raging stream in eastern Germany.

Firefighters resumed their search for the man in Joehstadt, in Saxony state, on Wednesday morning [July 14]. German news agency dpa reported that he had been trying to secure his property from rising waters when he disappeared.

Hof county near the eastern border with the Czech Republic issued a disaster alert late Tuesday as basements filled with water, trees were uprooted and some areas lost power overnight. Germanys DWD weather service said the region saw 80 liters (more than 21 gallons) of rain per square meter in the space of 12 hours.

In Hagen, firefighters had to rescue several drivers whose vehicles had become stuck in a flooded underpass. Videos on social media showed streets in the western city knee-deep in water and others buried by landslides.

Residents in the nearby town of Erkrath were warned not to shower or use their washers as the sewage system was overloaded by rain.

The neighboring Netherlands and Belgium were also hit by flooding.

Water authorities in the southern Dutch province of Limburg warned that the heavy rainfall will turn streams into dangerously fast-flowing torrents and urged the public to stay away from them.

Boat owners were advised to steer clear of the Maas river due to strong currents and debris being washed downstream.

Dutch media showed people being rescued Tuesday from a historic mill that was partially submerged under flood waters estimated at 1.5 meters (5 feet) deep.

Swollen rivers are expected to overflow into their floodplains later in the week. It is unusual for the rivers to overflow in the summer. It more often happens in the spring when rivers such as the Rhine and the Maas rise due to melting snow in European hills and mountains.

In Switzerland, authorities raised the flood warning for Lake Lucerne to the highest level and banned all shipping.

DWD meteorologists predicted further extreme storms in the western and central parts of Germany through Thursday, with peak rainfall possibly reaching 200 liters per square meter.

Photograph: The river Rhine floods the promenade in Cologne, Germany, on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. Photo credit: Oliver Berg/dpa via AP.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Windstorm Europe Flood
This group of International People Moves details appointments at Everest Re, AXIS Re and Sompo International Holdings.

A summary of these new hires follows here.

Everest Re Group Ltd. announced the appointments of Ari Moskowitz and Peter Bell to critical leadership roles within the companys Reinsurance Division. Moskowitz has been named senior vice president, chief operations officer and Bell has been named senior vice president, chief executive officer and managing director of Bermuda, subject to BMA approval.

Moskowitz and Bell will both report to Jim Williamson, Everest Re group chief operating officer and head of Reinsurance.

Moskowitz has 14 years of industry experience and joined Everest in 2019 as deputy chief pricing actuary for the Reinsurance Division. In his newly created role, he will continue to oversee reinsurance actuarial pricing and will assume responsibility for claims.

Moskowitz will have responsibility for driving operational excellence across the division and leading critical strategic initiatives.

Bell joined Everest in 2003 and has more than 30 years of experience in both insurance and reinsurance roles. Most recently, he served as deputy managing director of Bermuda. In his newly expanded role, he will oversee all of operations for Bermuda.

***

AXIS Re, the reinsurance business segment of AXIS Capital Holdings Ltd. announced three promotions from within its reinsurance segment: Simon Stirnemann, Allison Janisch and Rich Phillips.

Simon Stirnemann has been promoted to AXIS Re head of EMEA LatAm Casualty. He has been with AXIS more than 15 years, working in the Singapore and Zurich offices. Stirnemann has held liability and casualty underwriting roles within AXIS Re and most recently served as a strategic account executive. He continues to be based in Zurich and now reports to Andy Hottinger, president of AXIS Res International Division.

AXIS Re also announced the promotions of Allison Janisch to global head of Casualty, Reinsurance product lead, and Rich Phillips to global A&H product lead. These newly created positions within the Reinsurance Products Division, led by chief underwriting officer Katie Partington Howarth, are designed to enhance coordination of these lines of business across the reinsurance segment and will work in close partnership with existing business units.

Janisch is responsible for informing the global underwriting approach for all lines of casualty business, encouraging consistency and coordination across AXIS Re. She has more than 28 years of casualty experience and most recently served as AXIS Re head of EMEA LatAm Casualty, a role she started in 2011. Prior to joining AXIS, Janisch was the head of Global Casualty for Paris Re and AXARe. She continues to be based in Zurich and now reports to Ms. Partington Howarth.

Phillips has been appointed global head of A&H Product in addition to his role as head of U.S. Reinsurance, AXIS A&H. In his new global product lead role, Phillips will work with Partington Howarth to drive underwriting consistency globally for the A&H Reinsurance business.

Prior to joining AXIS, Phillips was the president of the North America Accident & Health Reinsurance division of Munich Re and has a combined total of over 34 years of experience in the re/insurance industry. Phillips continues to be based in Princeton, N.J. and reports to Jason Busti, president of AXIS Res North America Division.

The appointments were effective July 1.

***

Sompo International Holdings Ltd., a global Bermuda-based specialty provider of property and casualty insurance and reinsurance, announced the appointment of Marco Serra as vice president, Professional Lines.

Serra has more than two decades of European insurance experience working in Italy, the UK and Spain for market-leading businesses, including AIG, ANV and Navigators. He joins Sompo International from ArgoGlobal Assicurazioni in Rome, where he was chief underwriting officer. Serra will be based in Sompo Internationals Barcelona office and report to Mathieu Borneuf, SVP head Professional Lines for Continental Europe.

Sompo International has ambitious growth plans in Continental Europe and professional lines is a key area of focus. We have grown our European professional lines book to a significant size in the last three years, commented Richard Allen, EVP, Professional Lines, London Market & Europe.

As we strive to be close strategic partners to our clients, we rely on the technical expertise and knowledge of our people. All our Professional Lines team are industry experts, each with 15-20 years experience, so Marcos track record and distinctive skill set make him a perfect fit. He will have responsibility for helping profitably growing our Professional Lines book in Europe with a particular focus on Professional Indemnity.
A grand jury in Ohios Mahoning County on July 6 indicted seven people accused of taking part in a criminal enterprise that burned buildings and faked burglaries to fraudulently collect more than a million dollars from insurance companies, the states attorney general announced.

According to a media release from Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost and Mahoning County Prosecutor Paul Gains, the indictment includes charges of engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity in Mahoning, Trumbull and Ashtabula counties from 2011 to 2017.

Tricia Floyd, aka Patricia Floyd, 69, of Youngstown, is accused of being the ring leader. The others indicted are:

Kyrene Rodriquez, aka Kyrene Moirai Rinard Floyd, 36, of Youngstown

Heather Marie Kellar, formerly known as James Kellar, 48, of Niles

Theodore Edward Dozier Wynn, aka Ted Wynn, 29, of Youngstown

Juan Rodriguez, aka Johnny Rodriguez, 32, of Youngstown

Christopher J. Gibboney, 29, of Girard

Jessica Gonzalez, 51, of Youngstown

The case was investigated by the Youngstown Police Department, Ashtabula County Sheriffs Office, Ohio State Fire Marshal, U.S Postal Inspection Service, Secret Service and Social Security Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Mahoning County Prosecutor and the Ohio Attorney Generals Special Prosecutions Section.

The crimes alleged include:

Burning several buildings owned by group members.

Defrauding insurers, including Allstate Insurance, Farmers Insurance and Nationwide Insurance.

Changing one-dollar bills into twenties, fifties and one hundreds.

Hiding from the Social Security Administration a mineral-rights windfall so that more than $30,000 in benefits could be collected.

Burglarizing a home intending to destroy evidence about the groups crimes.

A copy of the indictment is available on the AGs website.

Indictments are criminal allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Source: Ohio AGs Office

Topics Fraud Ohio
An Arkansas healthcare provider charged with firing older workers with driving responsibilities because of their age will pay more than $52,000 to settle a federal age discrimination lawsuit.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) said White River Health System Inc., headquartered in Batesville, Ark., will pay $52,500 to four former employees as part of the settlement.

According to the EEOCs lawsuit filed in February 2020, White River fired four employees because White Rivers insurance policy excluded anyone over the age of 72 from driving. The employees, over the age of 72, had driven for several years without incident. The company made no attempt to secure alternative drivers insurance that would cover the employees, the EEOC said.

The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protects employees from discrimination based on age. The EEOC filed its lawsuit (Civil Action No. 3:20-cv-00049) in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas, Northern Division, after attempting to resolve the case through its conciliation process.

Under the two-year consent decree entered by Judge D. P. Marshall Jr., in addition to providing back pay to the affected employees:

White River is enjoined from terminating, or failing to hire any employees with driving responsibilities because of the individuals age

White River will not discriminate based on age in the purchase of insurance for employees who have driving responsibilities

Before renewing or purchasing any commercial automobile insurance policies, White River will contact a minimum of three insurance companies to ascertain whether it can obtain policies which do not exclude from coverage any drivers age 40 or older based on their age

White River will review its existing equal employment opportunity policies to ensure the policies show a strong and clear commitment to preventing unlawful age discrimination and retaliation

White River will conduct training for its senior center employees on the requirements of ADEA

White River will provide to EEOC any complaints of age discrimination and White Rivers responses to the complaints.

White River Health System operates senior centers in Mountain View, Brockwell, Salem, Mammoth Springs, Hardy, Cherokee Village, and Ash Flat, Ark.

Source: EEOC

Topics Lawsuits Medical Professional Liability
West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey said he will oppose OxyContin maker Purdue Pharmas bankruptcy plan, arguing that his state, one of the hardest hit by the opioid epidemic, would get shorted in settlement money.

I remain vigorously opposed to a proposed allocation formula that would distribute settlement funds largely based on a state or local governments population  not intensity of the problem, Morrisey said Tuesday.

Purdues plan to reorganize into a new entity that helps combat the U.S. opioid epidemic got a big boost last week as 15 states that had previously opposed the new business model gave their support.

The agreement from multiple state attorneys general, including those who had most aggressively opposed Purdues original settlement proposal, was disclosed last Wednesday in a filing in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in White Plains, New York. It followed weeks of intense mediation that resulted in changes to Purdues original exit plan.

But nine states and the District of Columbia did not sign onto the proposal. Some criticize it for not demanding more from members of the wealthy Sackler family who own the company and have not accepted any blame.

Morrisey, a Republican, had previously said he opposed the proposal on separate grounds. He reiterated Tuesday that the allocation formula fails to recognize the disproportionate harm caused by opioids in our state.

In a statement emailed Tuesday, the Sackler family said, This resolution to the mediation is an important step toward providing substantial resources for people and communities in need. The Sackler family hopes these funds will help achieve that goal.

For years, West Virginia has had the nations highest fatal opioid overdose rate.

I look forward to arguing our case in court this August, Morrisey added. Following next months hearing, a federal bankruptcy judge will decide whether to confirm the deal.

Purdue sought bankruptcy protection in 2019 as a way to settle about 3,000 lawsuits it faced from state and local governments and other entities. They claimed the companys continued marketing of its powerful prescription painkiller contributed to a crisis that has been linked to nearly 500,000 deaths in the U.S. over the last two decades.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Virginia West Virginia
The Citizens Property Insurance Corporations Board of Governors approved rate adjustments that will raise average premiums by an additional 2.3% in February 2022.

The board for the state-backed insurer unanimously voted in favor of the rate increases, which head to the Office of Insurance Regulation for final approval. If approved, renewing policies after Aug. 1 will increase by an average 5.2%, and policies renewed after February 1, 2022 will see average increases of 7.6%.

Citizens is required to comply with a legislative glide path that caps individual rate increases at 10%, excluding coverage changes and surcharges.

The latest rate adjustments calculate in provisions of SB 76. The law, signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in June, raises Citizens cap through 2026. In 2022, Citizens glide path will increase from 10% to 11% under the new law.

These necessary adjustments reflect the efforts of the Florida Legislature to return Citizens to its role as a residual insurance company, said Citizens Chairman Carlos Beruff. Unfortunately, we have become the first choice, or only choice, in too many regions of the state.

SB 76 also requires Citizens to factor in the reinsurance costs necessary to protect its surplus from a 1-in-100-year storm.

Citizens said the law steers policyholders to private insurance carriers if a private policy premium is within 20% of the comparable Citizens policy premium.

Over the past couple of years, private market rates have increased due to fraud and increased litigation, said Kyle Ulrich, president and CEO of Florida Association of Insurance Agents. Because of the statutory rate cap, Citizens rates have become very competitive, if not lower than the private market in some areas of the state. As the market of last resort, Citizens should not be competing with the private market.

Citizens said that is has seen its policy count jump from 420,000 to more than 640,000 since October 2019 and is now seeing increases of more 5,000 new policies per week. Company officials expect the policy count to exceed 750,000 by the end of 2021.

We want to get smaller, not bigger, said Citizens spokesman Michael Peltier. The market is in a challenging spot right now so were stepping up. Thats what were supposed to do.

Private insurers have been implementing rate increases in excess of those Citizens.

If approved, the higher rates will apply to all Citizens policyholders. In April, Insurance Commissioner David Altmaier rejected a recommendation that new policyholders be charged more than existing policyholders.

Topics Trends Florida Pricing Trends
At the recently concluded Smart City Event, we unpacked the new paradigm of the Smart City. As concept turns into reality, there are some interesting initiatives and partnerships coming to the fore.

This week, Nvidia announced Velodyne Lidar is joining the Nvidia Metropolis program with the Velodyne Intelligent Infrastructure Solution (IIS) for traffic monitoring and analytics.

The Nvidia Metropolis program provides a partner ecosystem, developer toolkit and application framework to empower the next generation of smart city solutions. The Velodyne IIS brings together artificial intelligence software and lidar sensors to promote road safety. Specifically, the Nvidia Jetson AGX Xavier module provides the edge AI computing system the capability to run 3D perception software and enable detection of pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles in real time.

Velodynes IIS will be first put to the test in Austin, Texas at a location of frequent accidents to showcase the smart city solutions efficacy.

It is great to be working with the city of Austin on innovation initiatives that will certainly transform roadways into smarter, safer infrastructure for the community, explained Jon Barad, Vice President of Business Development of Velodyne,. Partnering with NVIDIA Metropolis allows us to help these communities and others address road safety challenges and improve traffic efficiency and sustainability.

Lidar is not new, but as we introduce 3D perception and intelligence at the edge continues to grow, it is a new day in the smart city.

How smart is your city?

Edited by Maurice Nagle
The Nokia X20 is one of the latest from the Finnish phone brand which features 5G and a massive 6.67-inch screen.

Design

The X20 looks a lot like the Nokia 8.3 from last year and thats not really a bad thing. It has a similar power button on the right edge that doubles as a fingerprint reader and the circular camera module that houses the rear quad-camera system. Outside of this and to the right is the LED flash. The back has a frosted glass-like finish although the material is some form of plastic.

Around the front, in the top and centre, theres a hole-punch cutout for the front-facing camera. On the bottom chin is the Nokia logo in silver. The bezels are pretty large all the way around the front and the bottom chin is even larger.

On the left edge, is a dedicated button for calling up Google Assistant, as well as the SIM tray. Two SIM cards or one SIM and a MicroSD card can be used in the X20.

Under the hood

Nokia X20 is powered by Qualcomms Snapdragon 480 5G SoC, which is one of their latest mid-range chipsets. This makes the X20 one of the cheapest phones on the Irish market to come with 5G but I honestly dont think this should be the reason alone to buy it.

In real-world use the 480 5G gets the job done. Thanks to an almost stock version of Android 11, the X20 performed well at every task I throw at it. That being said, the screen is a standard 60Hz refresh and transitions are not as smooth as other mid-range phones with a faster refresh rate.

The 8GB of RAM makes a difference though as I was able to switch between apps without slow reloads while switching back and forth between apps. Also, 128GB is more than enough for most and if you need more for photos and video, you can always upgrade the space with a micro SD card.

The X20 features a 3.5mm headset jack on the bottom edge but you dont get any headphones in the box. Something else you dont get in the box is a power adaptor. Instead, Nokia says that choosing this product puts real trees in the ground thanks to their partnership with Ecologi. Its just as well because they include eleven booklets on Get Started and Product and Safety info in several different languages. You also get a USB-C cable in the box so that you can use an existing charger. At this stage, who doesnt own at least one charger? And, just for good measure, theres a really nice biodegradable bumper case included in the box.

The X20 comes with Android 11 and you also get three years warranty, three years of security updates, three years of OS upgrades.

Cameras

The quad-camera system consists of a 64MP (wide), 5MP (ultra-wide), 2MP (depth), 2MP (macro). The main wide camera is excellent for the most part with good detail in decent light. Unfortunately, the 5MP ultra-wide isnt as impressive. Its low resolution and photos lack sharpness.

The depth-sensing camera is only on board to assist with portrait mode for depth information. The macro camera is only 2MP and a complete waste of time. Youll get better macro shots if you use the standard lens and just crop in.

The 32MP selfie camera is fine but nothing special. It does work well in good light but really struggles in low light.

Video capture on the rear and front cameras has a maximum resolution of 1080p at 60fps. Image quality is fine and theres image stabilisation which helps take out camera shake. Dual-Sight mode, lets you capture videos from two different cameras  you can even change the size of each frame from half and a half to a picture in picture for the final shot.

Battery performance

Battery life is excellent and I had no problems getting through a heavy day of use. However, there are not wireless or fast charging options.

Verdict

The Nokia X20 is a decent mid-ranger that does everything well but nothing exceptional. The guarantee of three years of updates, stock Android 11, dual SIM/micro SD card, 5G and 3.5mm headphone jack are all positives.

The Nokia X20 retails for 329.99 with 8GB of RAM, 128GB of storage. www.nokia.com
The Charities Regulator launched three investigations last year and received 466 concerns from members of the public, many about bogus used clothing collections.

The regulators annual report, published today, shows the targets of the investigations included Bothar, a well-known charity providing livestock to farmers in developing countries.

In May 2020, an investigation was launched into ChildFund Ireland, a charity supporting families in Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

An investigation began into use of the charitable assets of Cabhru Housing Association Services, a Dublin housing charity, in April last year.

The report also shows 177 concerns raised about clothing collections by entities who were not registered charities.

Concerns relating to clothing collections continue to make up a significant portion of the concerns that we receive," said Charities Regulator chief executive Helen Martin.

In 2020, once again with the support of our colleagues in An Garda Siochana, we ran a campaign urging the public to be vigilant and to always check the Register of Charities before donating through clothing collections.

Investigations

The Irish Examiner reported on Wednesday the charity Bothar wants to join the estate of its late founder Peter Ireton as a co-defendant to High Court proceedings it has taken against its former CEO David Moloney.

20/4/21 File pic of former Bothar Chief executive Peter Ireton taken in 2007 Pic: Marc O'Sullivan

The charity is claiming that Mr Moloney misappropriated funds for his own use. Mr Moloney resigned his position as ceo in February.

The High Court previously heard Mr Moloney had admitted to his clients that both he personally, and Bothar founder, the late Peter Ireton, had personally benefited from monies donated to the charity.

The Regulator published a damning report into ChildFund Ireland last month.

It was found not to have adequate control over its spending on travel, expenses, income, credit card expenditure, petty cash, payment of bonuses and overheads.

The report states a former chief executive, the finance director and her daughter went on a trip to Zambia costing over 6,300.

The report states: Former CEO 1 stated at interview that he appointed the daughter of the Finance and Sponsorship Director as a Junior Ambassador to bring books on the trip to children in Zambia, although no formal recruitment or appointment procedure was followed for this role. When this ceo resigned a farewell lunch was held costing 2,774 including a 600 gift, but this was not approved by the board, the Regulator found.

Concerns were raised with the Regulator following the breakdown of the relationship between this charity and the Government development body Irish Aid.

The investigation into Cabhru Housing Association Services (CHAS) relates to the inappropriate renting out of apartments in Dublin.

CHAS leased a building on Berkely Street intended to be for the use of elderly residents. They applied for planning permission to demolish and rebuild the space with more apartments in 2018.

But RTE reported it emerged that after moving the elderly residents out, the apartments were instead rented to students at a significantly higher rent.

Former ceo Miceal McGovern resigned in February.

The CHAS website states: CHAS welcomes the decision of the Charities Regulator to appoint Inspectors to investigate a concern brought to its attention in relation to the use of certain charitable assets.

Charities deregistered

Last year, 134 charities were deregistered, having lost their charitable tax status. The regulator closed 510 concerns, some raised before 2020.

Almost half or 224 of new concerns received related to governance issues, including financial controls and transparency.

Charities Regulator CEO Helen Martin: 'Concerns relating to clothing collections continue to make up a significant portion of the concerns that we receive.'

Ms Martin also praised charities for providing services to the public and returning financial reports to the regulator despite the pandemic challenges.

It quickly became apparent that charities were being called upon more than ever to provide vital services at a time when it was becoming increasingly difficult for many charities to provide the services they are so valued for, she said.

The annual report states there were 11,426 registered charities at the end of 2020. Munster has the second-highest number at 3,101, topped only by Dublin which had 3,156.

Financial reports filed last year but mostly relating to the financial year 2019 show just over half of the charities had an income of more than 100,000, 30% had an income of between 10,000 and 100,000, and 15% had an income of less than 10,000.

"Of the 2,623 charities reporting an annual income of over 250,000 in 2020, 1,063 had income in excess of 1m," states the report.
Planning permission for Ireland's first medically supervised heroin injection facility at Merchant's Quay in Dublin has been quashed by the High Court.

Mr Justice Garrett Simons said An Bord Pleanala had failed to explain why it had decided to grant temporary permission for the facility for three years in circumstances where its own inspector had recommended two years.

The facility, run by the existing Merchant's Quay Ireland (MQI) project providing medical services and needle exchange for drug users among other things, would be set up in a basement area of the existing Riverbank Centre premises providing booths where users can inject themselves and remain for some 30 minutes afterwards. The heroin is not supplied by the centre.

Some 100 drug users are expected to use it every day, 63 of them by the time children are turning up to go into the neighbouring St Audeons primary school.

The building is just 150 metres from St Audeon's which brought the High Court challenge to the planning decision.

The school claimed the decision was irrational and that an injection facility would worsen the already serious problems including drug users congregating in the area, engaging in drug buying and selling, overdosing and other anti-social behaviour.

An Bord Pleanala said the decision to grant permission was appropriate and consistent with the law. The new facility will be monitored to ensure it is not causing any problems and international experience has shown such injection facilities could be run successfully.

Failure to address school concerns

Mr Justice Simons said one of the striking features of the proposed development was that it was to be located adjacent to a primary school. The school's objections however were "not addressed, in terms, in An Bord Pleanalas decision.

"Indeed, there is no reference at all in the decision to the school or its pupils.", he said.

On a literal reading of the board's conclusion about the development in the context of the zoning of the area, it might appear to suggest the board had made definitive findings in respect of the impact of the injection facility on the proper planning and sustainable development of the area, he said.

It might appear, for example, that the board had concluded that the proposed development would not adversely impact on the residential amenity or character of the area, he said.

"If this were so, then the logic of the imposition of a condition limiting the permitted use to a period of three years, to allow for a subsequent review of the development, would be difficult to comprehend."

One of the principal issues for determination was whether the plan was consistent with proper planning and sustainable development to locate a medically supervised drug injecting facility in close proximity to an existing primary school, he said.

The school board contended a school and such a facility were incompatible and it had identified what it believed would be adverse impacts on the school.

An Bord Pleanalas decision did not engage adequately with the school's submissions, the judge said.

The decision was also not saved by reference to the fact that planning permission had been granted on a temporary basis only.

The stated reason for the three-year limitation on use is to allow for a review thereafter, but there was, again, no reference to the impact on the school or its pupils, he said.

"The failure to properly address the school boards submissions and to explain the reasons for which they were not accepted represents a breach of the statutory requirement to state the main reasons and considerations for the decision," he said.

This breach was enough, on its own, to invalidate the planning permission.

Other reason for dismissal

The judge also concluded the planning permission was invalid on the separate ground that, in the absence of any explanation, the decision to permit it for three years was unreasonable.

He said he proposed to make an order setting aside the decision and his provisional view was that it should be sent back to the board for reconsideration.

However, he would adjourn the making of the order pending submissions from the parties next October.
A barrister has complained that the presiding judge in the trial of four men accused of abducting Kevin Lunney is "rubbishing" an important part of the defence case and was "dismissive and contemptuous" in his tone.

Michael O'Higgins SC was cross-examining fingerprint expert Detective Garda Ernie Frazer about blood marks inside a Renault Kangoo van when Mr Justice Tony Hunt interrupted to ask, "Where is this blood?"

Mr O'Higgins asked the witness to leave and then told the judge that he wanted to "legally complain of the observation made by the court". He said the trial has to be conducted on evidence and that he, having read the book of evidence, is aware of things the judge is not.

Mr Justice Hunt told Mr O'Higgins: "There is no need to shout. Keep the anger level down."

Mr O'Higgins said, "I'm not shouting" and added: "This is an important part of the defence case and you are rubbishing it. Can I suggest that you just sit back and listen to all the evidence rather than make comments in the middle of it to the effect that there is nothing in this?"

Mr Justice Hunt said: "I just want to know where the mark is."

Mr O'Higgins replied: "Your tone in saying it was, in my submission, completely dismissive and contemptuous of it."

When Mr Justice Hunt said anyone could listen back to the proceedings to hear his tone, Mr O'Higgins replied: "What won't be on that is the expression on your face."

Mr O'Higgins described the judge's question as an "unfair comment on the evidence". The judge finished by saying: "I would like to know what the evidence is, all right, so get the witness back and move on."

A 40-year-old man known as YZ; Alan OBrien, aged 40, of Shelmalier Rd, East Wall, Dublin 3; Darren Redmond, aged 27, from Caledon Rd, East Wall, Dublin 3; and Luke OReilly, aged 67, with an address at Mullahoran Lower, Kilcogy, Co Cavan, have all pleaded not guilty to false imprisonment and intentionally causing serious harm to Mr Lunney at Drumbrade, Ballinagh, Co Cavan, on September 17, 2019.

Detective Garda Ursula Cummins told Sean Guerin, prosecuting, that on October 29, 2019, she examined a Renault Kangoo van that had been seized in Drogheda by gardai investigating Mr Lunney's abduction. She said Dr Edward Connolly of Forensic Science Ireland had examined the Kangoo for blood and directed her to take swabs for DNA testing from specific areas of interest.

Under cross-examination, the detective agreed with Mr O'Higgins, for YZ, that she first took swabs on October 29 before Dr Connolly had examined the van and then returned with Dr Connolly two days later. Mr O'Higgins asked her if it was "a surprise" that on her first examination she didn't notice the brown reddish marks that were later pointed out by Dr Connolly.

She said: "Not really, it's pretty grubby on the inside."

Det Garda Frazer told Mr Guerin that on October 29, 2019, he examined the same van for finger marks but found none. He told Mr O'Higgins that he "didn't see anything that looked like blood". It was at this point that Mr Justice Hunt asked: "Where is this blood?" prompting Mr O'Higgins to ask the witness to leave.

Doctor tells of examining Lunney

Earlier, Dr Muhammad Ashraf Butt of Cavan General Hospital told Mr Guerin that he examined Mr Lunney on October 25, 2019, more than one month after his abduction. The doctor noted a 7cm scar from Mr Lunney's right ear to his cheek and a 10cm scar from his right ear to his jaw-bone where he had been slashed with a Stanley knife. Mr Lunney used a beard to hide the scarring but it was still partially visible, the doctor said.

He also had scars on his right upper arm, left wrist, an 8cm vertical scar on his lower chest and upper abdomen, and a 13cm scar on the left side of his abdomen. Scarring remained on his left lower leg where surgeons had inserted a nail from his knee to his ankle to repair a fracture to his tibia or shin bone. In the middle of the shin area, the doctor noted a "bony swelling".

Mr Lunney also told Dr Butt that he did not sleep well for a time due to the pain and was "fearful of going out in public places".

Dr Butt said doctors had also noted the extent of Mr Lunney's injuries when he was triaged at Cavan General Hospital on September 17. They noted multiple slash wounds to his face, bruising in various places, mild head injuries, pain and bruising in his right arm, and pain in his right leg where an X-ray would later reveal the fractured tibia. The lacerations to his face included a 10cm wound to the right side and two parallel 7cm wounds to the left side. He was hypothermic and his attackers had poured bleach on him. Mr Lunney described his pain as "very severe, 10 out of 10", the doctor said.

He required fluids and paracetamol, and morphine was administered both by injection and in tablet form. X-rays revealed an oblique, minimally displaced fracture to the tibia. The doctor said the fracture would have left Mr Lunney unable to walk and contributed to his hypothermia as it prevented him from finding cover when his attackers left him on a roadside wearing only his boxer shorts.

The wounds to his face required 24 stitches and other face wounds were closed using glue. The surgery to his leg was carried out after he was transferred to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda. He was discharged on 24 September, seven days after the assault.

The pain took weeks to resolve, Mr Lunney told the doctor, and he suffered headaches and nausea for a time. The right leg had been "extremely painful" for at least 10 days and then gradually improved. There was still pain in the right calf when the doctor examined it on October 25.

The trial continues.
Burma Controversial Israeli-Canadian Lobbyist Cuts Ties With Myanmar Junta

Myanmar coup leader Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing. / The Irrawaddy

A controversial Israeli-Canadian lobbyist representing Myanmars military regime has cut his ties with the junta after he was unable to be paid because of international sanctions, according to Foreign Lobby, a media outlet that tracks the attempts of foreign governments to gain influence in the United States.

The Myanmar military hired Ari Ben-Menashe and his firm Dickens & Madson Canada in the wake of their Feb. 1 coup. Ben-Manashe, who is a dual Israeli-Canadian citizen, is a former Israeli military intelligence official with a record of representing controversial clients.

He and his firm signed a US$2 million agreement with the junta, pledging to assist in explaining the real situation in the country, which has been interpreted as trying to justify the Myanmar militarys actions to western governments.

The Washington-based Foreign Lobby reported on Tuesday that Ben-Menashe informed coup leaders last month that he would be stopping working for them, as sanctions prevented him from being paid by the junta.

Ben-Menashe has said in previous media interviews that he would receive a big bonus if sanctions against the military regime are lifted.

But, since the coup, the United States has responded with a series of sanctions targeting the coup leaders and members of the State Administrative Council, as the regime describes itself, over the more than 900 pro-democracy supporters who have been killed since the junta ousted the democratically-elected National League for Democracy (NLD) government.

Ben-Menashe told Reuters that he arranged a visit by CNN to Myanmar in April as part of his plan to re-brand the regime. He also claimed in the Reuters interview that the military takeover was an attempt to prevent the civilian NLD government from drifting further into Chinas orbit.

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Burma US Urges ASEAN to Hold Myanmar Accountable to Jakarta Consensus

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. / Antony John Blinken / Facebook

In his virtual meeting with ASEAN foreign ministers on Wednesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged his Southeast Asian counterparts to press for an end to the violence in Myanmar, as well as for the release of all political prisoners in the country and a return to democracy.

The meeting was also attended by the Myanmar military regimes foreign minister, Wunna Maung Lwin.

Blinken called on ASEAN to take joint action to urge the end of violence, the restoration of Burmas [Myanmars] democratic transition and the release of all those unjustly detained, US State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement.

The US and European nations have been the most vocal opponents of the military takeover that ousted State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyis elected government in February.

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi was arrested and detained with top members of her National League for Democracy, including President U Win Myint.

Myanmars military regime this week filed four new corruption charges against the State Counselor in its latest effort to ensure the countrys ousted civilian leader stays behind bars. She now faces a total of 10 charges and if convicted could be jailed for 75 years, should the sentences be imposed consecutively.

The AP news agency reported that Blinken urged ASEAN to take immediate action to hold the Burmese regime accountable to a consensus forged in April by the blocs heads of state with Myanmars military leader.

The five-point document called for an immediate end to violence and the start of a dialogue among contending parties with a special ASEAN envoy mediating the talks. ASEAN has yet to name the envoy, however, and is reportedly still squabbling over who it should be.

ASEANs critics say it is a serious mistake to expect the bloc to lead any effort to find a just resolution to the crisis in Myanmar, pointing out that the regional grouping has so far stuck to its two guiding principlesnoninterference and consensus. Moreover, several of ASEANs 10 member nations are themselves undemocratic regimes.

Meanwhile, Myanmars state run newspaper the Global New Light of Myanmar published a front page story on Wunna Maung Lwins attendance at the US-ASEAN meeting, headlined Union Minister Participates in Special ASEAN-US Foreign Ministers Meeting via Videoconference.

The report said, During the meeting, Union Minister U Wunna Maung Lwin appreciated the United States support for ASEANs effort in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, encouraged the United States to further support ASEANs COVID-19 response initiatives, and to continue to support [the] Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI).

It continued, With regard to developments in Myanmar, the Union Minister explained on matters relating to the security condition in the country, the five-point roadmap of the State Administration Council and the five-point consensus of the ASEAN Leaders Meeting.



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Burma Myanmar Junta Announces Nationwide Lockdown Next Week as COVID-19 Surges

Bodies are lined up to be cremated at Yeway Cemetery on July 12, 2021. / Supplied

The Myanmar regime will impose a nationwide lockdown next week, while also expanding the number of public holidays during the week from two to five, in an attempt to contain the spread of COVID-19 amid a surge in infections and deaths in the country. It announced on Wednesday that July 17 to 25 will all be official public holidays.

On Wednesday, the Southeast Asian country reported 145 fatalitiesthe highest daily death toll since the military coup in Februaryand 4,320 new COVID-19 cases, after testing 21,352 swab samples, according to the junta-controlled Health Ministry.

In an order signed by its secretary, the regimes governing body, the State Administration Council (SAC), said it had designated the two weekdays20 and 22 Julyas public holidays in order to effectively conduct the COVID-19 prevention, control and treatment activities.

In a separate order, it also declared Qurbani Eid Day on July 21 (Wednesday) as a public holiday. Martyrs Day on July 19 (Monday) and Waso Full Moon Day on July 23 (Friday) were already official public holidays.

The Central Committee on Prevention, Control and Treatment of COVID-19, which is now led by coup leader Min Aung Hlaing, also said people must abide by the rules set by the committee, to effectively prevent the spread of COVID-19 during these public holidays.

People are urged to reside at home or [in] dormitories and will be prohibited from traveling at all except for duty and funeral services. Only shops selling basic essentials, medicine and medical supplies will be permitted to open, and people must wear masks and protective gear whenever they go outside.

The regimes order also warns that actions will be taken against those who fail to adhere to the rules.

Myanmar is in the midst of a third wave of coronavirus infections that began in late May. Since then, cases have been reported in 296 out of 330 townships, or 90 percent of all townships nationwide. The military regime has imposed stay-at-home orders in 74 townships, including in Yangon, Mandalay and Sagaing regions and Chin and Shan states.

Myanmar has reported a total of 208,357 COVID-19 cases with 4,181 deaths nationwide since the virus first hit in March last year.

Nearly 79,000 COVID cases and 965 deaths were reported between Feb. 1 and July 14 by the junta-controlled Ministry of Health and Sports, but it is assumed the actual figures are far higher, as crematoriums in Yangon, a commercial hub, and elsewhere are overflowing.

Reports of people dying from lack of oxygen have increased day by day this month.

Daw Than Than Soe, chairwoman of the Yangon-based charity group Rights to Live, said the group has been required to transport more than double the usual number of bodies to Yeway and Kyisu cemeteries this week.

More deaths are imminent. We have not been able to help everyone who asked for help from us; they asked for medical oxygen for patients but we dont have enough resources, she said.

In some cases, hospitals were full and we had to take the patients back. They died soon after that.

The regimes Health Ministry said in mid-June that three highly transmissible and more severe coronavirus variantsincluding the Delta variant, which originated in Indiahad been detected in Myanmar.

Also on Wednesday, the UN special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, Tom Andrews, said, An explosion of COVID cases, including the Delta variant, the collapse of Myanmars healthcare system, and the deep mistrust of the people of Myanmar of anything connected to the military junta, are a perfect storm of factors that could cause a significant loss of life in Myanmar without emergency assistance by the international community.

He urged the international community to facilitate a non-junta, non-political body to coordinate a COVID response initiative that includes a vaccination program that the people of Myanmar will trust.

Junta-controlled media announced on the same day that Myanmar will inoculate citizens with 6 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine from China starting at the end of this month and will continue vaccinating the population. It said the junta would buy 4 million of the doses and China would donate the other 2 million.

Myanmars ousted civilian National League for Democracy government began administering COVID-19 vaccine jabs in late January using vaccines donated by India, beginning with healthcare workers.

Since the coup in February, many healthcare professionals have joined the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM), refusing to work for the regime. Many people have also refused to get inoculated.

The regime has nonetheless continued COVID vaccinations using 3.5 million doses donated by China, and both donated by and purchased from India. Health and education staff, as well as the juntas cabinet, are first in line to receive vaccinations. However, COVID-19 infections have been reported among those who received vaccines last month.

The UN special rapporteur added that the junta must also account for the [US]$350 million in COVID aid the International Monetary Fund provided the people of Myanmar just days prior to the coup detat.



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Myanmar security forces patrol near the Myanmar-Bangladesh border in northern Rakhine State in 2017. / The Irrawaddy

In May 2018, human rights organization Amnesty International brought to light a seemingly under-reported massacre of scores of Hindus and other ethnic minorities allegedly by armed Rohingya militants in Myanmars Rakhine state.

Amnesty published an investigative report based on interviews conducted in Myanmar and neighboring Bangladesh, as well as photographic evidence analyzed by forensic pathologists. The report said that Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) fighters sowed fear among Hindus and other ethnic communities with these brutal attacks.

ARSA allegedly killed 99 Hindu women, men, and children, as well as abducting many other villagers, in August 2017, something the western media seemed to have glossed over.

Our latest investigation on the ground sheds much-needed light on the largely under-reported human rights abuses by ARSA during northern Rakhine States unspeakably dark recent history, Tirana Hassan, Crisis Response Director at Amnesty International, was quoted as saying in the report posted on the organizations website.

Over the past 18 months, there has been a renewed focus on ARSA, a designated terrorist organization in Myanmar, with some media reports suggesting it has links with Pakistans spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and militant outfits such as the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan.

That possibility cant be ruled out, people with knowledge of the matter told this writer.

ARSA and the Rohingya crisis

ARSA, also called Harakah al-Yaqin, allegedly launched coordinated attacks on Myanmars security forces in August 2017, following which, the Myanmar military led a crackdown that pushed more than 740,000 Rohingya Muslims into neighboring Bangladesh. The international community criticized the Myanmar government and western media called out State Counselor and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, saying she had excused a genocide.

Amid all this, ARSA managed to keep a low-profile but reports suggest that the outfit had been receiving support from transnational jihadists, as well as the ISI. In February last year, the German news agency DW came out with a sensational report claiming that ARSA had started radicalizing Rohingya refugees in the camps in Coxs Bazar in Bangladesh.

Prior to that, in October 2019, Bangladesh had denied Myanmars accusation that ARSA was preventing Rohingya refugees from returning home.

The government of Bangladesh reaffirms to Myanmar that there are no ARSA activities in Rohingya camps, the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Nevertheless, many details about ARSA and its activities kept cropping up in the media, some of which were corroborated by analysts as well. One credible piece of information is that ARSA leader Ata Ullah Abu Ammar Junjuni, alias Hafiz Tohar and alias Ata Ullah, was born in Karachi, Pakistan and that his parents had migrated to Rakhine state. Ata Ullah then went to Saudi Arabia and worked as a cleric there.

The Brussels-based International Crisis Group (ICG) published a detailed report on the Rohingya insurgency in Myanmar. It said ARSA is run by a committee of Rohingya immigrants living in Saudi Arabia and is commanded on the ground by Rohingya with international training and experience in modern guerrilla war tactics.

A Pakistani military portal, defence.pk, made an interesting observation on ARSA, Although so far nobody is saying that ARSA has any religious motivation in its struggle, but Islamist outfits like the Islamic State and al-Qaeda look out for such enraged Muslim groups to raise their army of extremists. It is now anybodys guess whether ARSA will be drawn into such a cauldron in future.

Did ARSA infiltrate refugee camps?

In September 2019, Indias federal government told the countrys Supreme Court that many Rohingya refugees staying in the country had links with dreaded terror outfit Islamic State and the Pakistani ISI.

The Narendra Modi governments reply came in response to a petition filed by two Rohingya refugees challenging any possible move by New Delhi to deport an estimated 40,000 people who had fled alleged persecution in Myanmar.

There are 16,000 registered Rohingya in India, according to the United Nations, but the number of undocumented people is believed to total around 24,000.

Guwahati-based senior journalist and insurgency expert Rajeev Bhattacharyya said, Recent reports suggest an increase in the activities of criminal gangs and militant outfits. It is known that the camp at Shamlapur in Coxs Bazar has a presence of ARSA functionaries. The possibility of ARSAs links with ISI cannot be ruled out.

Last year, Indian intelligence agencies reportedly tipped off the Border Security Force that the ISI allegedly arranged arms training for 40 Rohingya people in Coxs Bazar. There were also reports about the Bangladeshi terrorist outfit, the Jamaat-ul Mujahideen of Bangladesh (JMB), providing training to Rohingya militants, although Dhaka has denied that.

The ICG also highlighted the ARSAs links with JMB.

The Bangladesh government is supposed to be on high alert in Coxs Bazar where refugee camps have been erected. There have been occasions when some NGOs have been barred from entering the camps and theres an ongoing crackdown on drug trafficking as well, added Rajeev Bhattacharyya, who has visited the Rohingya refugee camps in Bangladeshs Cox Bazar.

(Jayanta Kalita is a senior journalist and author based in New Delhi. He writes on issues relating to Indias northeast and its immediate neighborhood. The views expressed are his own.)



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As Myanmar grapples with a deadly third wave of coronavirus, the shortage of medical oxygen has become the biggest killer in the country.

In June, the number of people who died of COVID-19 stood at 117. But in the first two weeks of July, the death toll has already reached 847. Crematoriums in Yangon and elsewhere are suddenly thronged with coffins, with the lack of oxygen the reason for most of the fatalities.

The countrys healthcare system has collapsed amid the political upheaval that followed the juntas coup in February. Many hospitals that were able to cope with the influx of patients during the countrys first and second waves of the virus before the military takeover are now understaffed and unable to treat people.

Turned away by hospitals, many people have to treat themselves at home, including sourcing their own medical oxygen. This has led to panic buying and an acute shortage of oxygen cylinders.

In response, the military regime has ordered oxygen plants in Yangon and other towns not to refill oxygen cylinders for individuals. On the night of July 13, junta troops fired shots in the air to disperse a crowd queuing for oxygen at a plant in Yangons South Dagon Township.

COVID-19 fatalities resulting from the dearth of oxygen have increased significantly, with 89 deaths recorded on July 12, 109 on July 13 and 145 on July 14, according to the junta-controlled Ministry of Health and Sports. But the real figures are believed to be higher.

Meanwhile, the regimes repressive orders such as the dusk-to-dawn curfew have contributed to COVID-19 fatalities, with people dying unnecessarily through being unable to access oxygen and medical treatment in time. People also face the increased risk of coronavirus infection from being forced to queue for hours at the handful of oxygen plants.
No More Banks

Our lovely Key already has two drug stores and more banks than I can count. So, why are there plans for more of each?

My first choice for the old Food Fair/Pantry Pride/Hyde Park would be a green playing field. My second choice would be for a family-style restaurant similar to Applebees, Fridays, Bennigans or the Olde Key Grille, enlarged and in a better location.

We lost the English Pub, and the Sand Bar blew away in Hurricane Andrew. We really need a place for a cold beer or soda, where we can visit with our friends, and a reasonably priced place to take the kids for a non-gourmet hamburger or some nice hot wings.

If we cant get a green field, hopefully some commercial interest will bring us what we dont have rather than more of what weve already got

 Allene Nicholson (letter to the editor)

Village Hires New Senior Coordinator

New York resident Roxy Lohuis has emerged from a pool of 22 applicants to land a position with the Village as the new Coordinator of Senior Services.

A three-person selection committee -- consisting of Key Biscayne resident Richard McGill, Village Recreation Director Todd Hofferberth and Paul Hunt, the coordinator of senior services for the City of Coral Gables -- was unanimous in its final decision to endorse Lohuis to the Village Manager position.

She comes across as very empathetic and also very capable, said committee member Hunt. Lohuis has seven years of experience in dealing with senior citizens. She is also no stranger to South Florida, having earned a B.A. degree in Psychology from the University of Miami.

She will begin her appointment with the Village on September 4.

Saved from Darkness

By performing more than 1,500 corneal transplants over the course of his career, Dr. Eduardo Alfonso has saved more than a few people from a life of darkness.

Alfonso graduated from college and medical school at Yale University. He completed his ophthalmology residency at Bascom Palmer and his fellowship on corneal diseases and transplants at Harvard Medical School.

The University of Miami School of Medicine faculty is well represented in the latest edition of Americas Top Doctors, with more than 75 physicians in disciplines ranging from cardiology to dermatology, according to Alfonso.

Doctors in this book are selected by fellow doctors answering, If you or a loved one needed medical care, who would you go to?  he explained. Its a significant honor for Miami to have a world-class medical center that includes a group of clinicians honored this way. I often have friends tell me that they plan to move away from Key Biscayne one day when they retire. My advice is to stay close to Miami where you can find excellent medical care, an important need of the aging population.

Alfonso lives on the Key with his wife, Molly, and three children

Parade Committee

Most residents go to the parade to watch the floats, marching bands and wave flags and go home saying, That was fun. Most attend the 4th of July BBQ and think, Isnt that nice?

Behind the 4th of July festivities is a dedicated group of people who form the 4th of July Parade Committee. They begin working on next years parade shortly after the 4th, thinking of ways they can improve the activities, giving their time in hopes that the next parade is even better than its predecessor. We salute the committees efforts in creating a small-town parade that fills our hearts with joy.

Fast-food Restaurant Closing

The owners of the Key Executive Building and the adjacent site where the Kentucky Fried Chicken is located want to develop a three-story office complex to replace KFC after the lease of the fast-food restaurant expires on August 31.

According to Joy McKenna, president of the property management firm Research Management Corporation, building plans have already been submitted to the Village and are awaiting a zoning hearing. What the owners are trying to do is put up a new building that is in conjunction with what the Village is looking for in new construction, McKenna said.

So, does this mean the Islands only fast-food restaurant with a drive-thru window is soon to be finger-licking gone?

There is no future for KFC on Key Biscayne, said Juan Mojica, regional manager of Kazi Foods of Florida Inc., which owns the KFC on Key Biscayne as well as 10 others in Miami. Mojica said that while he would like to renew his lease, he realizes this is unlikely. I guess its a matter of economics, he said.

#islanderthrowback
Overseas hackers continue to target the SolarWinds months after the first massive hack on the IT service company. One of the earlier attacks left a Microsoft customer support agent a victim, said Engadget. Now, months after Microsoft's investigations, they posted in a recent blog post that they have discovered a group of hackers operating out of China.

SolarWinds Serv-U Software Hackers Uncovered by Microsoft: DEV-0322

Microsoft reported that they have detected a zero-day remote code execution exploit being used to attach the Serv-U FTP software by SolarWinds. The attacks were limited and targeted.

If successfully exploited, the flaw in the IT company's software can allow hackers to perform actions like installing and running malicious payloads or viewing and changing data, Microsft explained.

The investigation was done by the Microsoft Threat Intelligence Center (MSTIC) and they pinpointed "with high confidence" that the malicious actor is a group they have called DEV-0322. When tracking and investigating the malicious cyber activities, they identify each threat actor as a "development group" or "DEV group" and assigned each group a four-digit number for easier tracking.

The DEV-0322 group, operating out of China, has been targeting entities in the U.S. Defense Industrial Base Sector and software companies, Microsoft reported. The group has been observed to use commercial VPN solutions and compromised consumer routers in their attacker infrastructure.

What are the implications of the SolarWinds hack? pic.twitter.com/sQJ2wtBG4f  TRT World (@trtworld) July 8, 2021

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SolarWinds Attack Details and Security Threat

SolarWinds confirmed that the company was notified by Microsoft of a security vulnerability in its Serv-U software, Yahoo! Finance said.

The zero-day attack behavior was discovered by MSTIC during a routine investigation of its Microsoft 365 Defender telemetry. They found an anomalous malicious process spawning from the Serv-U process, suggesting that the system had been compromised.

The flaw was related to the product's managed file transfer and secured FTP. This, in turn. allowed the malicious actor to effectively add themself as a Serv-U administrator.

SolarWinds was quick to respond to the issue and built a patch, Microsoft added. Before the patch was available, the Microsoft 365 Defender team also rolled out detections to catch unknown malicious behaviors to protect and alert customers of any malicious activity pertaining to the zero-day attack.

Remember when I told you the SolarWinds hack was bad. It seems to have affected massive portions of the US Gov.



Tons of companies got hit with ransomware this week. Video tomorrow.  Mutahar (@OrdinaryGamers) July 8, 2021

SolarWinds gained overnight notoriety in December after it was the target of a supply chain cyberattack that impacted 18,000 of its customers which included nine US government agencies.

Earlier in January, the US intelligence release a joint statement naming Russia as the most likely source of the hack, Yahoo! Finance said. In February, reports of suspected Chinese hackers have exploited a separate flaw in SolarWinds' software to help break US government computers last year.

SolarWinds said the latest vulnerability is not related to the so-called Sunburst supply chain attack.

Customers affected by the malicious activity enrolled to Microsoft Threat Experts, the company's managed threat hunting service, and received a targeted attack notification that contained details of the compromise.

The Microsft Threat Experts and MSTIC teams worked closely with the affected customers to respond to the attack and ensure their environments were secure, Microsft reported.

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Information on a "Gran Turismo 7" beta was spotted on PlayStation Experience. This might confirm the unannounced existence of a beta test developed for excited players.

Players have been waiting with anticipation for the latest installment of "Gran Turismo" ever since it got its announcement trailer back in 2020. The "Gran Turismo 7" video teased a bunch of new maps, an improved game interface, an exciting campaign story, and a lot of updated car models in its inventory.



As written in its video description, "Whether you're a competitive racer, collector, fine-tuning builder, livery designer, photographer or arcade fan - ignite your personal passion for cars with features inspired by the past, present and future of Gran Turismo."

'Gran Turismo 7' PS5 Beta Test: How to Get Beta Key

Some gamers spotted the "Gran Turismo 7" while opening the Experience PlayStation website. This is an infamous and easy-to-access app in the PlayStation interface often used for special promotions of some incoming games.

To open the "Grand Turismo 7" beta, you need to:

Open Experience PlayStation on the official website

Click "Start Quest"

Click "Related Campaigns"

Open "Italia Quest"

"Grand Turismo Beta (Test)" should be listed as one of the choices.

Watch the 10-second video trailer. This is a "Quest" set to expire on July 31.

After completing the video, you can now click on "Unlock the Beta code early."

You will receive a 12-digit code "1234-5678-9012" redeemable code.

Techstory said the whole program is a "strange development." Further analysis of the program opens up a lot of issues.

First, the "Grand Turismo 7" PS5 beta test is unannounced. Neither PlayStation nor game developers have released information about an ongoing test.

Second, the beta seems exclusive to Italian servers because it was found under the category "Italia Quest."

Lastly, the 12-digit redeemable code does not work. The number sequence itself seemed like a placeholder, per EuroGamer.

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'Gran Turismo 7' PS5 Beta Test Leaked

Gtplanet was the first to report about the "Grand Turismo 7" beta test. This development, however, led them to believe that the beta test might have been leaked early.

A "Gran Turismo 7" beta test strongly indicates that game developers are working on new promotional content for public consumption. The beta test might be released on Italian servers first.

It is important to note that the "Gran Turismo" franchise has a history of using beta programs, similar to its release with "Gran Turismo Sport."

The 12-digit code might also be in development. Upon completion, a working beta code might be released using the same steps listed above.

Lastly, the reward code specifies to work on "PS5 only." This opens up speculations if the beta program or the "Gran Turismo 7" game itself would be exclusive to PS5 players.

"Gran Turismo 7" will undoubtedly have more information the closer its launching date gets. For now, gamers can expect the "Gran Turismo 7" official release sometime in 2022.

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Huntsville, TX (77320)

Today

Partly to mostly cloudy with a chance of thunderstorms. High 91F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms this evening becoming more widespread overnight. Low 74F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
Ithaca, NY (14850)

Today

Some sunshine with a thunderstorm or two possible this afternoon. High 83F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

A few passing clouds. Low 64F. Winds light and variable.
The ACT Government has chosen financier Brighte as the exclusive administration partner for the first phase of their flagship climate policy, the Sustainable Household Scheme.

Under the partnership Brighte - the sef-described green financier - will manage the provision and administration of finance to ACT residents, deliver program administration services and manage the Schemes suppliers and installers for the $150 million Sustainable Household Scheme.

The program is the claimed first of its kind in Australia that offers zero-interest loans of between $2,000 to $15,000 for a range of energy upgrades broader than just solar and batteries. It also includes electric heating and cooling, hot water pumps, electric stove tops, electric vehicles (EVs) and EV chargers.

The appointment of Brighte to manage the Sustainable Household Scheme covers the first 12 months of the schemes operations with a government option for a further 12-month extension.

Brighte Founder and CEO Katherine McConnell says she is excited to be helping families in the ACT make their homes more sustainable.

Brighte is deeply invested in the renewable energy transition and we are excited by the opportunity to play a role in making clean energy more affordable, accessible and available to residents of the ACT, she said.

This is the first time a program of this nature has been put to a competitive tender process which is important for the continued growth of an innovative and competitive renewable financing sector and delivering value to households.

Weve already helped tens of thousands of Australian families experience the benefits of sustainable household energy, cutting their bills and lowering emissions  and now we want to take this to a new level in the ACT.

McConnell said Brighte had also played a role in helping grow many local businesses and was confident that the job creation off the back of this program will be a boost for the territorys economy as well.

Brighte is on a mission to make every home sustainable, so there is a strong and natural alignment between our purpose and the Schemes objectives, she said.

We look forward to delivering a successful scheme for ACT households and partnering with other like-minded organisations to accelerate the transition to sustainable homes and a clean energy future.

Brighte has also announced a move into the electric vehicle financing space for the first time and as part of the Sustainable Household Scheme, and will support the offering of loans for EVs and EV chargers in the ACT.

Using this as a foundation, Brighte plans to offer loans for EVs nationally over the next year making them more widely available as it moves into clean vehicle finance, McConnell said.

The growth of electric vehicles is both an inevitability and opportunity Brighte can help households take advantage of.

Brighte is perfectly positioned to offer EV finance to complement our range of sustainable finance offerings. EVs arent just going to play role on our roads - but also in driving smart sustainable homes.
There is a gap among young girls pursuing STEM-related fields despite the belief that STEM is crucial in Australias future, according to new research which also highlighted that STEM participation dipped further at postgraduate and masters/PhD level.

There is a substantial gap among young girls continuing to pursue STEM-related fields beyond high school despite four in five (81%) believing that STEM is critical to Australias future, the new national study by Sunsilk and Geek Girl Academy found.

According to the research, only 18% of women go on to study STEM at a tertiary levela 50% drop off rate from the 36% of girls studying STEM subjects in year 11 and 12.

Participation dips even further after undergraduate study, with only 4% of women studying STEM at a postgraduate level and a low 2.5% at a masters/PhD level.

This study supports the findings of a recent government report which found that Australian womens participation in STEM-qualified occupations makes up only 13% of the science and technology industry.

Only 7% of Australian women and girls currently feel empowered to choose a career in STEM due to gender imbalance (56%) and inaccessibility of a STEM career (20.6%).

Currently, almost one in ten (9.5%) of women surveyed feel pressured by society to choose a career considered more fitting for women.

Sunsilk A/NZ research and development director Natalie Buckley stresses that careers in STEM are critically important when thinking about jobs of the future.

The perspectives and experiences of Australian women and girls from all diversities is crucial in contributing towards innovation and progress for the STEM industry in Australia, she says.

These findings are timely as the government recently announced the federal budget which unveiled plans to invest more heavily in the digital skills and technological literacy of Australians.

This includes training opportunities, cadetships, and placements for women in non-traditional trades such as building, construction and manufacturing.

By May 2024, the government projects that STEM occupations will grow by 11.6% (303,200 people), whereas all other jobs are projected to grow by only 7.5% (771,800 people) over the same period.

The research findings also suggest there is a STEM gap to solve in the home. Young girls self-belief and career choices are overwhelmingly influenced by their mothers: almost two in three girls (64%) cite their mums as their most influential role models.

However, the study revealed Australian mums feel largely unequipped to support their daughters in this space: currently, only one in ten (9.9%) mothers feel they have a strong understanding and knowledge of STEM skills to impart to their daughters.

To empower girls and their mums and help build their STEM skills, Sunsilk launches the Rethink Pink campaign, partnering with social enterprise, Girl Geek Academy, to conduct a series of four interactive online workshops.

Participants will be lectured on the science of hair, the use of tech to code a mother-daughter videogame, engineer their own shampoo bottle, and use real world math application to Rethink Pink and break gender stereotypes.

Girl Geek Academy co-founder Sarah Moran says: Girl Geek Academy is on a mission to teach one million women technology skills by 2025. Our partnership with Sunsilk is another step towards a future where women play a vital role in the development of innovations and solutions that ultimately shape lives.

Through the campaign, we want to build girls confidence, showcase positive female role models succeeding in STEM and demonstrate that a career in STEM is accessible and achievable to everyone, Buckley concludes.

Sunsilk invites Australian girls and mums to visit and register their attendance for the Sunsilk x Girl Geek Academy STEM School Holiday Workshops. The workshops will be streamed live on YouTube at 2:30pm (AEST) on:
AMD's star has been rising ever since it launched its Ryzen and EPYC processors, with AMD bringing back much-needed competition to the computing space, making PCs great again and putting the super into supercomputing, and AMD's MD of Sales for the APJ region joined us on iTWireTV to talk about it all.

Back at Computex, AMDs President and CEO, Dr Lisa Su, unveiled the companys latest computing and graphics technology innovations to accelerate the high-performance computing ecosystem, spanning gaming, PCs and the data centre.

Dr. Su unveiled the latest breakthroughs in high-performance computing pioneered by AMD with new 3D chiplet technology; expanded adoption of AMD computing and graphics technologies in the automotive and mobile markets with industry leaders Tesla and Samsung; new AMD Ryzen processor offerings for enthusiasts and consumer PCs; leadership data centre performance with the latest 3rd Gen AMD EPYC processors; and a full slate of new AMD graphics technologies for gamers.

You can see the must-watch keynote at YouTube here, and Ive also embedded the keynote video further down below, along with some other recent relevant videos.

AMD has been very busy before and since. The company's EPYC HPC processors accelerated the Perlmutter supercomputer, unveiled RDNA-2 based mobile graphics, delivered ultra enhanced FidelityFX super resolution for the latest games, and leads the high performance computing world towards exascale and beyond.

Gamers will especially love FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR), an "open-source, cross-platform technology designed to boost framerates and deliver high-quality, high-resolution gaming experiences," with ,ore than 40 game developers announced support for FSR in their games and/or game engines, with a range of existing games adding support for FSR, and plenty more expected by the end of the year.

AMD has kicked Intel out of its slumber of the 2010s, and while Intel has done its best to roar back to life, and is even spending US $20 billion to build two fabs in Arizona to build its own next-gen processors, there's been plenty of rumours online that Intel has also turned to AMD's processor manufacturer, TSMC, in an attempt to compete.

Today, there are more design and OEM wins for AMD than ever before, and despite Apple also entering the race with its excellent M1 processor range that, AMD continues setting the pace and winning ever more customers in the consumer, business, enterprise, government, gaming and HPC supercomputing spaces, bringing much needed competition that sparks the hearts, minds and wallets of consumers into action.

So, when we were offered the opportunity to speak with AMD's local MD of Sales in the APJ region, Pete Chambers, we were glad to take AMD up on the offer!

My interview with Pete is below, followed by a summary of the topics we spoke about - please read on.

I started by introducing Pete and welcoming him to the program, and asked him to recap the highlights of AMD CEO Lisa Su's keynote at Computex 2021.

I then asked Peter to tell us his and AMD's message for data centre operators on AMD's latest-gen EPYC processors, followed by Pete's thoughts on the Pawsey Supercomputer using EPYC CPUs in Australia, and what this supercomputer is used for, along with other supercomputing activity in the region and globally with AMD's technology.

Pete explained the key benefits in specifying 3rd-gen EPYC over competing options and technologies, after which I asked Pete about the digital transformation and acceleration that has been seen due to the need to work from home because of the ongoing pandemic, which has seen a big jump in PC sales.

I naturally asked about the lessons learned by AMD from the pandemic, along with Pete's memories of his first computer, a bit about his own history in the world of tech, the current trends that are changing our tomorrows, great advice Pete has received in life to help him get where he is today, and his final message to both iTWire viewers and readers, and to AMD's current and future customers and partners.

So, please watch the video interview above!

Here are some other relevant recent AMD videos, starting with the Computex 2021 keynote:

The AMD Gaming 2021 video:

The AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution video:

The recap of the 3rd-gen EPYC launch video:
GUEST INTERVIEW: We live in a golden era of data, with abundant cloud storage in ever more sophisticated data centres, giving us greater insights than ever before, but how can businesses best manage unstructured data, decide what should and shouldn't be in the cloud, and minimise growing cloud costs? Aparavi's Gary Lyng joins us on iTWireTV to explain it all.

Aparavi. The company was founded in 2017, and today says its mission is to "put companies of all sizes in control of their data so they can sustainably increase their business success."

Aparavi's cloud-based platform is billed as "the core of the solution, which is based on intelligent machine learning," with the company explaining "thanks to the intuitive UI, companies can easily uncover, optimise, classify, and evaluate their data without needing in-depth IT knowledge."

As we all know in our data-laden 21st century, data is the new currency, with Aparavi reminding us "it exists in large quantities in every company and can provide valuable insights into optimised processes, improving the customer experience or unlocking new business opportunities.

"However, studies have shown that 80% of corporate data lies dormant and unstructured on servers. As a result, companies have no control over this alleged capital and cannot use it in a way that generates profit. Yet, this data is often the key to success in securing sustainable competitive advantages."

Managing all of this without complexity is what Aparavi promises, and it lists four steps that are expanded upon at its website in much more detail. In short, the steps are knowing what you have and discovering unstructured data anywhere, classifying that data easily with data intelligence, optimising your data and storage, and exploiting that data with open and secure access.

While Aparavi does not yet have an office in Australia, it does have customers here, with the US based company just having announced its launch in Europe, with the former GM of Microsoft Germany, Gregor Bieler, as CEO of Aparavi's EMEA division, and whose LinkedIn profile states: "If companies knew what they don't know about their data, they would act immediately!

So, when the opportunity arose to speak with Gary Lyng, a data expert and the CMO of Aparavi, we decided to learn more about the company and the products and services it offers.

The interview with Gary is below, followed by a summary of the topics we spoke about - please watch and read on!

I started by introducing Gary and welcoming him to the program, after which I asked Gary to explain how the company has evolved since its founding, and what it offers to the market today.

Gary explained how Aparavi's solutions are different and better, how the company's technology helps companies to minimise their cloud costs, what does and doesn't need to be stored in the cloud, and more.

We heard about some of Aparavi's customers in the US and around the world, including the new European division and its plans for the Asia Pacific region.

Gary then answered my question about the memories of his first computer and his own history in the world of tech.

He shared his thoughts on how the company will evolve over the next couple of years, and what the industry might look like in 2030, followed by great advice received in life, and Gary's final message to iTWire viewers and readers, and to Aparavi's current and future customers and partners.

So, please watch the video interview above to learn more!
The ACMA has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Australian Space Agency.

The MOU formalises the working relationship between the ACMA and the Australian Space Agency, setting out key areas for ongoing information sharing and collaboration to help meet objectives.

Radiocommunications plays a key role in space industry activity, and the demand for spectrum resources across space-based systems continues to grow.

The MOU will help the ACMA plan spectrum resources for space-based systems, while also balancing needs across other areas of spectrum management.

The ACMA conducts spectrum planning and licensing activities under the Radiocommunications Act 1992, and this can relate to spectrum for space-based communications systems.

The Space Agency's has activities related to the Space (Launches and Returns) Act 2018 also concerning space based communication systems.

The MOU will help both regulatory bodies navigate the space between and where they have overlapping responsibilities.
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FILE - This photo from Wednesday Jan. 29, 2020, shows Lev Parnas, right, looking through his phone as he waits in the office of Senate Minority Leader Sen. Chuck Schumer of N.Y. A judge on Wednesday, July 14, 2021 rejected a selective prosecution claim by a one-time associate of Rudy Giuliani who faces an October trial with two others on charges that they made illegal campaign contributions.
Extend the moratorium past the current one, scheduled to end Oct. 2021.

Lower the student loan rates.

Cancel a portion of borrowers' student loan debt.

Cancel all borrowers' student loan debt.

Do nothing. Borrowers need to get back to paying their student loan debt.

I don't know.

I have another idea that's not listed here.

Vote

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Jacksonville, TX (75766)

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Thunderstorms. High around 85F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Locally heavy rainfall possible..

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Variable clouds with scattered thunderstorms. Low 71F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
THE 36TH ANNUAL STELLAR GOSPEL MUSIC AWARDS PRESENTED BY AT&T DREAM IN BLACK ROUSES AUDIENCES WITH DYNAMIC PERFORMANCES, TRIBUTES AND MORE

Annual Celebration Set to Premiere Sunday, August 1st at 8pm ET/PT on BET, BET Her and BET Gospel





Photo Credit: Photography By Gip III for Central City Productions Photo Credit: Photography By Gip III for Central City Productions

July 15, 2021

(CHICAGO, IL) July 15, 2021  The Stellar Gospel Music Awards celebrated its 36th year honoring excellence in gospel music, featuring soul-stirring performances that will awe audiences who love sounds of inspiration. Hosted by gospel chart-toppers Jekalyn Carr and Tye Tribbett, this years ceremony showcased an eclectic mix of gospel legends and industry standard-bearers along with the unstoppable force of young, contemporary artists who are spreading the good news in new ways. The annual celebration, set to premiere Sunday, August 1st at 8PM ET/PT on BET, underscored the power of artists who boldly proclaim a Christ-centered identity, represent the unique sounds of their region, and display the rich diversity filling gospel music with a healing and uplifting energy that reaches the masses. A new generation of gospel artists showed up and showed out during the celebration as a testament to the genres staying power. Among them, Pastor Mike Jr., nominated for multiple Stellar Awards this year, performed Big, and host Jekalyn Carr belted her songs, Change Your Story and Jehovah Jireh. Maverick City Music treated audiences to the harmonious sound of Jireh, and various emerging artists such as Jokia, Terrian, and Nia Allenwere spotlighted as up-and-coming gospel talent. Big winners at the 36th Stellar Gospel Music Awards include Pastor Mike Jr., who was named Artist of the Year and won Rap/Hip Hop Gospel Album of the Year and Urban/Inspirational Single or Performance of the Year. Kierra Sheard was feted during the ceremony with Song of the Year and Contemporary Album of the Year, and Maverick City Music won both New Artist of the Year and Album of the Year. Other multiple Stellar Awards winners include Jonathan McReynolds, who was named Male Vocalist of the Year, Contemporary Male Vocalist of the Year, and as part of a group that won Producer of the Year; and Tasha Cobbs Leonard, whose wins included Albertina Walker Female Vocalist of the Year, Praise and Worship Album of the Year, and Contemporary Female Vocalist of the Year. @TheStellars Select categories and winners are featured on Instagram . Social media lit up during the event, generating more than two million impressions with posts featuring performances, winners, and other notable moments. The audience and performers were pleased to return to an in-person ceremony after the Stellar Awards went virtual last year due to pandemic lockdowns. COVID-19 safety protocols were enacted as part of the in-person event. Among many highlights from The Greatest Night in Gospel Music, Yolanda Adams, Tamela Mann, and Avery*Sunshine joined together to deliver a powerful tribute to Lady Tramaine Hawkins, who was honored with the Aretha Franklin Icon Award presented by Toyota. The trio performed a medley including widely-known Hawkins songs such as Holy One, Changed, and Going Up Yonder. The Clark Sisters, who received the James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award presented by AT&T, also performed rousing renditions of Is My Living In Vain, Blessed & Highly Favored, You Brought The Sunshine, and His Love. The legendary group received three nominations for this years Stellar Awards. Kierra Sheard gave a spirited offering of Something Has To Break, and Shelea and Christina Bell sang The Clark Sisters classic hit You Brought The Sunshine. Leading nominee Jonathan McReynolds lifted his voice to the sounds of Grace and Movin On, joined by Mali Music, and CeCe Winans burst into song with Never Lost and Believe For It. Viewers worldwide can expect to witness these dynamic performances and find out who won across all categories when the Stellar Awards airs Sunday, August 1, on BET, BET Her, and BET Gospel at 8 p.m. ET / PT. The show will also air August 2 on BET International. The ceremony, held at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville, TN, on Saturday, July 10, will also be carried in various markets for national broadcast syndication from August 7 through September 5. The Stellar Awards not only recognizes the years best performances in the genre, but also honors gospel music icons and those who have been instrumental in advocating for the gospel industry. Top nominees for this years ceremony include former Stellar Awards host Jonathan McReynolds, who received eight nominations this year.Anthony Brown & group therAPy, Kierra Sheard, Maverick City Music, and Pastor Mike, Jr. each received seven nominations, including a nod each for Artist of the Year. Other celebrated artists receiving multiple Stellar nominations include Tasha Cobbs Leonard, The Clark Sisters, Rev. Luther Barnes and the Restoration Worship Center Choir, the Chicago Mass Choir, and host Jekalyn Carr. AT&T is proud to be this years presenting sponsor. With support from additional sponsors, including State Farm (Song of the Year presenter), Toyota, P&G (Traditional Female Vocalist presenter), and McDonalds Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour, the 2021 Stellar Gospel Music Awards is set to be the gospel event of 2021. For additional updates, follow The Stellar Awards on social media and check out their website FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: WWW.STELLARAWARDS.COM AND BET.COM



















Photo Credit: Photography By Gip III for Central City Productions



Photo Credit: Photography By Gip III for Central City Productions





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For more info on some of the artists featured at the 36th Stellar Gospel Music Awards, visit the JFH Artists Database.






Donate Now As a public service during this pandemic, the Jewish News is providing free, unlimited access to all articles. Jewish News is a nonprofit publication that is owned by the community and relies on community support.
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Its crowds like this that the Santa Trains sponsors dont want to cause during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a modified version for the 79th annual event.
(June 21, 1952-July 7, 2021) Paula Marlene Woods of Crestline, Kansas, passed away peacefully at 5:15 p.m. on Wednesday, July 7, 2021 at the Via Christi hospital in Pittsburg, Kansas, following a period of ill health. Paula was born June 21, 1952 in Oswego, Kansas, to Adrian and Margaret (Wa
INNORULES Digital Product Manager (DPM) is a product information management system that supports the development of new products quickly and easily by disassembling and assembling the product information, structure and attributes. INNORULES, a Korean professional developer of Business Rule Engine, supplied the Digital Product Manager to the innovative digital transformation project of one of the biggest insurance companies in Japan. INNORULES is planning to expand into the South East Asian financial market upon this opportunity.
Mohammed Ghuman, center, cuts the ribbon at the official grand opening of his fifth West Virginia market/gas station. This newest venture is located at 5437 Charles Town Road in Kearneysville.
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Tim covers leisure and arts, and he is also a theater critic. He interned for the JI in 2015, and was hired in 2016. Tim graduated from UConn, Central College of McPherson, Kansas, and American Musical & Dramatic Academy. His favorite movie is "Jaws."
During session, Eric can be found at the Capitol in Hartford, reporting the information that readers want and need to know. For insights and updates on legislation, politicians, committees, and commissions that affect the entire state of Connecticut, follow Eric on Twitter: @BednerEric.
The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us we don't have to be in the same room with our co-workers to conduct business. All we need is a laptop computer, a mobile phone, and a good internet connection.

But while tools enable firms to continue providing quality work and good client service from distant locations, working remotely can challenge the organizational culture that has developed over time. These challenges may be especially acute when it comes to onboarding new employees and introducing them to workplace culture from a distance.

Lance CPA Group, a nationwide firm that is 100% remote, has cultivated its organizational culture with distant employees in mind, said managing director Joshua Lance, CPA, CGMA, who is based in Chicago. Bringing new employees into the firm's virtual environment takes creativity and involves the entire team.

When new employees join the firm, the first two weeks are critical, Lance said. "We get them on board, teach them all the systems and processes we have in place, and try to have them meet everyone in the firm," he added. It can be challenging, he acknowledged, but his firm has systems in place to make new employees feel welcome and help them fit in.

Lance and other professionals outlined ways to help break the ice with new employees and integrate them into their firm culture, even when everyone can't be together in person.

Start with the interview process. Katina Peters, CPA, CGMA, of Montana, an owner of Peters, Johnson, Staley & Co., a virtual CPA firm, realizes new employees come from different work environments. Some are experienced in working remotely, but it can be a huge adjustment for people if they've never worked that way, Peters said.

In addition to being a remote workplace, Peters, Johnson, Staley & Co. offers team members flexible schedules with 20- to 30-hour workweeks. "We have a truly flexible culture while still upholding high professional standards," she added.

Integrating new hires into that unique culture starts with the interview. Prioritize talking about culture and the cultural expectations of the organization during the interview and make sure to encourage questions about the culture.

"This is where we begin explaining our value system, and we are transparent about how we operate," she said. "This helps us see a job candidate's drive and personality and how they might fit in with our core values before they start working with us."

Create a buddy system. At Lance CPA Group, each new hire is assigned to a buddy  an experienced team member they can go to when they have questions. That team member regularly checks in with the new employee to make sure they feel welcome in the firm and have the equipment and resources they need to do their jobs.

"When you work remotely, you can feel sort of isolated as if you were on an island," Lance said. "I think proactive communication with a designated office buddy can really help new people feel more connected."

When creating a buddy system, be sure that the guidelines make clear the buddy is the new hire's colleague, not a supervisor. A more collegial relationship allows the new hire to speak more openly, without fear of making a bad impression.

Communicate the story of your firm. Painting a vivid picture of your workplace helps connect new employees to your firm's culture. At Maxwell Locke & Ritter in Austin, Texas, new hires are required to read a book about the firm written by founder Earl Maxwell, said Sarah Taylor, director of talent and culture.

"After reading the book, you can really tell how much thought went into designing our firm and how our core values came to be," Taylor said.

For firms without a book about their history, including infographics, timelines, PowerPoint presentations, or videos about the organization's history within onboarding material can help remote workers gain a sense of belonging.

Maintain office rituals. If your firm has established rituals, such as serving doughnuts in the breakroom every Friday, continue those traditions even though your team is working remotely, and encourage new hires to participate.

Lance suggested giving everyone on your team a nominal amount of money on a reloadable gift card to buy coffee and doughnuts at a set time on Fridays for a virtual coffee break. It's easy to transfer many regular office activities onto a virtual platform and a great way to introduce new hires to your firm's culture.

"Even though you are not together in person, maintaining your workplace rituals is an important component of your office culture," Lance said.

Involve the firm leadership. One key for introducing new hires into your firm's culture is involving your leaders in the process. While most firms schedule meetings for new hires to meet managers, Kristen Rampe, CPA, founder and principal with Rampe Consulting, advocates getting the partners involved too.

"I think it's really important to get your partners in front of all your team members, especially the newest ones," she said. Even brief one-on-one meetings lasting no more than 15 minutes help new hires feel welcome. "These informal meetings mimic catching up in the office breakroom or going for coffee, except they take place in a virtual environment," she said.

Choose meeting apps that fit your culture. From Zoom to Microsoft Teams, the marketplace offers apps that enable online meetings and networking. Choose one that is the best fit for your firm's culture, Peters said. Peters, Johnson, Staley & Co. uses Slack, a platform that offers a variety of features, including chat rooms and channels that can be organized by topic. For organizations that use Apple computers, FaceTime may be a better choice, while Facebook Messenger may be better for organizations that are heavily involved with social media. Always make sure to follow standard cybersecurity protocols on any platform you choose to work with.

"We don't have a physical watercooler, but we have a watercooler channel on Slack for informal gatherings," Peters said. "We encourage people to share pictures of their family, their activities, home improvement projects and hobbies, pets, and other aspects of their lives."

During the past holiday season, team members made gingerbread houses, and everyone shared photos and videos of their creations. "Our virtual watercooler keeps team members connected and helps incorporate new hires into our firm's culture," Peters said.

Be proactive. Helping new team members fit in doesn't happen organically, Peters said. You must be proactive and encourage everyone's participation in activities.

"Emphasize the importance of attending meetings and taking part in events," she said. Even in virtual gatherings that are simply meet-and-greets, attendance should be strongly encouraged. "Some people think it's not worthwhile to participate in a meeting when there's no real business to discuss," Peters said.

But informal meetings do serve a purpose, especially for new hires or people who feel isolated working from home.

"Our meetings are important, because they may be the only interaction our team members ever have with each other," she said.

 Teri Saylor is a freelance writer based in North Carolina. To comment on this article or to suggest an idea for another article, contact Drew Adamek, a JofA senior editor, at Andrew.Adamek@aicpa-cima.com.
Ankara said Thursday it had uncovered a mass grave containing dozens of bodies in a Turkish-held region of northern Syria, accusing a US-backed Kurdish militia of the killings.

Turkey and its Syrian proxies have seized control of territory inside Syria since 2016 in military operations against the Islamic State (IS) and the YPG Kurdish militia.

The governor of Turkeys Hatay province on the border with Syria told reporters a mass grave was found with 61 bodies in the Afrin area.

This is a crime against humanity, Rahmi Dogan said, blaming the YPG, which is backed by Washington.

I think the number of bodies recovered will rise, he added, after the Turkish defence ministry initially put the number at 35 on Wednesday.

Images on Turkish television showed officials in hazmat suits surrounded by what appeared to be bodies in bags.

Dogan said Turkish authorities believe the dead were civilians executed by the YPG days before Turkey launched its so-called Olive Branch operation in 2018 to capture Afrin.

AFP was unable to independently verify the claims.

Turkey accuses the YPG  a force backed by Western militaries against IS  of being a terrorist offshoot of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK).

The PKK, blacklisted by Ankara and its Western allies, has been waging an insurgency against Turkey since 1984, in a conflict which has killed more than 40,000 people.
A Kenyan lawyer accused of bribing witnesses in the failed International Criminal Court case against Deputy President William Ruto will face trial on the charges, the court announced on Thursday.

Paul Gicheru handed himself over to Dutch authorities in early November last year and was transferred to the court in The Hague where he appeared for the first time just a few days later.

The ICCs pre-trial chamber today confirmed the charges of offences against the administration of justice against Paul Gicheru and committed him to trial, it said in a statement.

The chamber found that there are substantial grounds to believe that Mr Gicheru committed offences against the administration of justice in the Ruto case, the court said.

Prosecutors say Gicheru corruptly influenced their witnesses to recant testimony by allegedly paying bribes of up to one million Kenyan shillings ($9,200 / 7,800 euros) and offering up to five million more.

Gicheru denies the allegations.

Cases against Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta and his vice president Ruto over post-election violence in the African country in 2007-08 collapsed in 2014 and 2016.

Former ICC chief prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said a relentless campaign of victim and witness intimidation made a trial impossible.

Two other suspects who are still at large, Philip Bett and Walter Barasa, face similar charges, the ICC said.
Many of the demonstrators did not wear masks, and they were dissatisfied with the vaccination regulations for health workers and health passes to enter public places.

The Paris police fired tear gas and arrested them while trying to disperse the demonstrators. Many of them are skeptical of vaccines, the so-called anti-vaccineThey marched all over France because of the new coronavirus restrictions.

Some protests started as early as Wednesday morning in Paris, when the annual military parade of the traditional Bastille Day parade watched by President Emmanuel Macron was being held on the Champs Elysees.

The protest continued until Wednesday night. The protesters were filmed in video clips posted on social media, and they also set off fireworks at the police.

Many of the demonstrators did not wear masks, and they were dissatisfied with the decision announced on Monday to force health workers to vaccinate and require people to show vaccine health passes to enter most public places. Those who have not been vaccinated need to show a negative test result.

The announcement prompted a record number of French people to book COVID-19 jabs.

This is in the name of freedom is a message from some protesters.

In an area of ??the French capital, the police fired tear gas to disperse the crowd.

The county police said in a tweet that the announced route had not been followed and regretted that the protesters threw projectiles and set fires.

Throughout Paris, about 2,250 people protested, and other demonstrations took place in Toulouse, Bordeaux, Montpellier, Nantes and other places. The French authorities set the total number of protesters at 19,000.

Healthy isolation

The Ministry of the Interior stated that there were 53 different protests across France.

Down with the dictatorship and Down with the Health Pass protesters chanted.

One of them, Yann Fontaine, a 29-year-old notary from the Bery region in central France, said that he came to Paris to demonstrate and believed that the health pass was equivalent to isolation.

Macron is playing with fear, which is disgusting. I know that vaccinations are now only to take children to the movies, not to protect others from severe forms of COVID infection, he said.

The police shut down the anti-Emanuel Macron protests in Paris. The demonstrators were angry at the Presidents announcement of COVID passports for entering restaurants, shopping malls, bars and other businesses. pic.twitter.com/gTFPzc5eSv  Andy Ngo (@MrAndyNgo) July 14, 2021

There is no vaccine obligation, this is the biggest inducement, government spokesman Gabriel Atal said at the time.

Its hard for me to understand that in a country where 11 vaccines are already mandatory this may be considered a dictatorship, he said, adding that after a year of vaccine research, the time for suspicion has long passed.

For teenagers who have only been able to accept jabs since mid-June, the rules will be relaxed-It is impossible to make summer hell, Attar said.

According to the Elabe poll released on Tuesday, the vast majority of French people approve of the new security measures.

So far, approximately 35.5 million peoplejust over half of the French populationhave received at least one dose of the vaccine.

At the beginning of the pandemic, France had the highest level of suspicion of vaccines among developed countries.

In December 2020, A survey conducted by the Odoxa polling team and Le Figaro, Indicating that only 42% of the French population wants to be vaccinated. By April this year, this proportion had risen to 70%, and about 14% of people still strongly opposed the vaccine.
Argentina, with the recent surge in coronavirus cases, is the fifth country in Latin America to have 100,000 deaths.

Argentina has become the fifth country in Latin America to have more than 100,000 COVID-19-related deaths because the country is suffering Coronavirus cases surge This made the healthcare network strained and exacerbated the already severe economic crisis.

On Wednesday, the Argentine Ministry of Health stated that the country had registered 614 new deaths in the past 24 hours.

According to data from Johns Hopkins University, it has now reported 100,250 coronavirus deaths and 4.7 million cases since the pandemic began.

Argentina has always been one of the worst-hit countries in Latin America, but since its peak last month, the average daily number of cases has declined, and the ICU bed occupancy rate is declining, although the country is still above 60%.

However, Carissa Etienne, head of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), warned on Wednesday that the country infection has increased again.

When complacency arises, the number of cases increases. We are all tired, but after experiencing successive peaks of infection in the same location, we must take public health measures as early as possible and consistently to break the cycle, Etienne Say At the weekly press conference.

Earlier this year, the Argentine government re-imposed lockdown measures during the second wave of infections, some of which have been cancelled. It has strict limits on the number of people arriving at the border to prevent contagious virus variants.

Every life lost is a huge regret for me, President Alberto Fernandez said in a speech last week. I promise that we will not stop vaccinating every Argentine man and woman in these months.

But many citizens are still struggling to deal with the effects of the pandemic.

Sandra del Valle Pereyra, 50, came to the San Vicente Cemetery in the center of Cordoba to visit the graves of her parents, who all died of COVID-19.

I have always been alone, Valle Pereyra told Reuters. She and her siblings are being isolated from each other to avoid infection. First, my mother died, and then my father. I dont know how I feel about this terrible disease.

In this country, its not just the pandemic that has overwhelmed us. There is also a huge economic crisis, said Gaston Rusichi, 34, a firefighter from Cordoba. Responsible for transferring the dead during the pandemic.

Many relatives call us to cry, not only because of death, but also because they dont have money to be able to bury them in the way one deserves, Rusichi added.

During the April virus peak in Argentina, more than 80% of ICU beds were in use.

According to the authorities, more than 20.6 million people in the country have been vaccinated with at least one dose, of which 5.1 million have been fully immunized.

To date, more than 60% of the adult population and 45% of the total population have received at least one dose.
The Canadian government stated that after the U.S. authorities accused four Iranians of conspiracy to lure five people (including three people living in Canada) to Iran, the Canadian government resolutely condemns Irans intimidation and foreign interference patterns.

Journalists and media workers are the cornerstone of any fair, strong and vibrant society. They must work freely without fear. Any violence and intimidation of journalists is totally unacceptable and must be condemned, Global Affairs Canada Ministry spokesperson said. Statement to CBC News.

We take this issue very seriously, and Canada will continue to work closely with allies and partners around the world to counter foreign interference and protect journalists.

Canada strongly condemns the Iranian model [of] Intimidation and foreign interference, the statement read.

U.S. authorities Four Iranians charged on Wednesday In the so-called kidnapping conspiracy. According to the US authorities, all four defendants are fugitives and are believed to be in Iran.

The three individuals allegedly targeted in Canada did not specify in the US indictment, nor did they mention their respective occupations.

The indictment stated that all individuals targeted in the kidnapping conspiracy were critical of Iran.

The court documents did identify an American target as a journalist, writer, and human rights activist, and described a British target as an Iranian diaspora reporter and political commentator.

Masih Alinejad was not named in the indictment, but Reuters and Alinejad herself have confirmed that she is the Iranian-American target mentioned in the court documents.

Its like a horror movie, Alinejad told CBC News. Power and politics.

I was shocked myself. I couldnt believe that the Iranian hostage-takers were so close to me. Eight months ago, the FBI just came to my house and they told me you are under surveillance, Irene Nejad told the host David Cochrane.

Watch: Alleged targets of Iranian kidnapping conspiracy made public

Iranian-American journalist and human rights activist Masih Alinejad joined Power and Politics on Wednesday to discuss the alleged Iranian kidnapping conspiracy against her and three Canadians who criticized Iran. 9:05

Erin Ahmadinejad said that she learned the details of the alleged kidnapping conspiracy when the indictment was announced yesterday in Manhattan Federal Court.

This [Iranian] The intelligence department hired a private investigator and sent them to take photos of your private life, photos of my husband, photos of my children, and even my friends and me. You know, walking around, where do I go. This is why the FBI actually sent me to the safe house, Irene Nejad said.

The indictment alleges that the defendant lied to a private investigator

The indictment stated that the defendant-described as forming an Iranian Intelligence Network-used false pretexts to seek the services of a private investigator in Canada to locate and monitor three targets.

The network falsely claimed that the purpose of the surveillance mission was to locate debtors for private clients located in the Middle East, and hired private investigators to monitor and take photos and videos of the target work and residence, and conduct background checks on their families, occupations and assets, the indictment Say.

CBC News has contacted the Canadian Department of Public Safety for comments.

Ward Elcock, the former director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Agency, said he believes that Canadian authorities will also alert Canadian targets of the network.

This is not so unusual

office [FBI] and service [CSIS] Will cooperate very closely, and over the years, I believe that this information will be passed on to Canadians and to the service, Elcock told Power and politics.

Watch: A former CSIS director suspected of conspiracy to kidnap an American journalist by Iran

Former CSIS director Ward Elcock talked to Power & Politics about the alleged Iranian conspiracy to kidnap an American journalist and lure three people from Canada to Iran. 6:08

The extreme nature of their seeming plans is definitely a step further than what I have heard before. Having said that, trying to lure people back to Iran or other countries, trying to lure their citizens back to their country, is not all too bad. Its normal. It doesnt happen every day anyway, but it does happen.

Ali Nejad called on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Canadian government to conduct appropriate and serious investigations to protect journalists.

Honestly, its not just me. Many journalists live under threats every day. There are also many activists, many opposition dissidents, many families, Alinejad said.

Canadian family members criticized the Iranian government after they lost their loved ones in the Ukrainian International Airlines flight 752 crash. They reported to the Canadian authorities in the past year that they had become targets of threats and intimidation  they blamed Tehran.

The victims family has reported the crime Phone calls, online threats, and family members being approached, CBC News reported.
According to the Office of Attorney General Gurbir Grewal (Gurbir Grewal), a statewide initiative aimed at addressing the surge in child predation in New Jersey, arrested 31 people in the three months to June.

United States Regional Working Group on Internet Crime Against Children Grewals office said that in the first six months of this year, they received 3,324 tips about potential online threats to children.This total includes data from National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

This is 39% higher than the total number of 2,393 alerts for the entire year of 2019, and is expected to exceed the 6,130 alerts for the entire year of 2020, including the 10 months of the COVID pandemic, Gruvals office said on Wednesday.

This 31 arrested As part of 24/7 Action Face all kinds of allegations, including According to the authorities, attempted human trafficking, attempted sexual assault, sharing of obscene material with minors, attempted theft by blackmail, and the production, distribution and possession of child sexual abuse materials.

The ages of these men ranged from 18 to 65 years old. Fourteen of them live in Burlington, Camden or Gloucester counties.

Gruval emphasized the arrest Ryan Olsen, 20, from Williamstown, Gloucester County, and Robert Reinhart, 52, from Telford, Pennsylvania.

Olsen was arrested by the New Jersey State Police on June 29. He allegedly offered prizes and money to underage girls who sent him pornographic material on social media as part of the game. The prosecutor said that a 15-year-old girl sent Olsen a sexually explicit video of herself, and his response was to send her a sexually explicit photo of herself.

Reinhart was arrested by the Gloucester County Attorneys Office in West Deptford on April 1st. He was allegedly willing to pay $300 to have sex with a 14-year-old girl.

During the investigation, Reinhardt allegedly communicated with the undercover detective of the adult sister who was disguised as a girl via text message, Grevals office said. That girl doesnt actually exist.

According to a survey of child predators, Grewal encourages parents Supervise childrens online information and posts, and regularly check browser settings. Other best practices include avoiding applications and websites that allow users to remain anonymous and provide encryption, video chat, and file uploads. Parents should also pay attention to potential signs of abuse, including attempts to conceal online activity and depression, anxiety, and anger.

Grewals office urges children to avoid divulging personal information online and opposes Share inappropriate photos.
The police on a riot car showed up twice to check whether a 12-year-old girl was in self-isolation.

An angry Catherine Crook said that her daughter Charlotte was stunned after the police showed up and asked to talk to her.

2 When the police yelled at the front door, Catherines daughter Charlotte hid behind her Credit: male media

On Sunday, the police showed up in the van and asked to talk to Charlotte directly to check whether she had been in self-isolation-and then check with Catherine.

Catherine said the police refused to tell her or her husband why they wanted to talk to their daughter.

When the shocked parents told the police that their daughter was only 12 years old, one of the policemen yelled for the child from the front door.

Catherine from Manchester Middleton told the Manchester Evening News: At this time my daughter was standing behind me squatting, thinking she had done something wrong and was shocked.

The female police officer standing at our door then yelled at my daughter to confirm that she had been in isolation.

I spent Monday trying to figure out why this happened, but the Rochdale Public Health Department told them they had authorized this.

The 45-year-old woman wrote to her MP Chris Clarkson to express her concerns, and his office is said to be investigating.

The policewoman standing at our door then yelled at my daughter to check that she had been in isolation.

However, on Monday, the Rochdale City Council sent the family a letter addressed to Charlotte.

The letter stated that they must contact the council as a matter of urgency regarding her isolation.

They called the council. This letter was standard practice, but the parents believed that the flyer was aimed at adults.

Then on the same day, the police came to this house for the second time.

My husband and I were very annoyed by this. The neighbors also saw all this and came out to show our support.

They can see whats going on. There are a lot of riot cars on the street.

This made my daughter very upset again, she broke down again, thinking that the police would arrest her, she said.

After that, I talked with a public health expert from the Rochdale City Council, and he blamed all this on NHS testing and tracking, and said that if I said that we were all quarantining this matter, things would not have progressed to this point. To the point.

Catherine said that since she tested positive on July 4, her daughter has been quarantining and doing homework at home.

She was originally scheduled to be released from isolation on July 14.

Very disturbing

Catherine explained that she received a call from the NHS for testing and tracking on July 5, asking her to find her daughter.

The mother explained that she used her mobile phone to register her daughter and asked the caller what they wanted.

They said they wanted to talk to her, and when Catherine asked if her daughters details would remain anonymous, they said they could not guarantee that they would not be passed on to other contacts.

Catherine refused because she did not agree to the use of her data because her daughter was only 12 years old.

A Rochdale City Council spokesperson said: If the National Tracking Team cannot contact someone to confirm the isolation, the details will be passed to the City Council for local processing.

The important thing is that people must fulfill their legal obligation to isolate to protect others from the virus.

By talking to people who are in quarantine, we can also determine if they need any support, such as food shopping, so people participating in the tracking and tracing system is really beneficial.

We have talked directly with family members and provided them with support.

A spokesperson for the Greater Manchester Police said: Unless there is a violation, the process with the NHS tracking and tracing service is usually not carried out by GMP.

This means that if someone does not answer the NHSs call to check if they are quarantined as required, the local authorities will be contacted first.

By cooperating with local authorities, the police will be required to attend because of unanswered calls and suspected violations to conduct inspections and issue fixed penalty notices when needed.

2 Catherine said that since she tested positive on July 4, her daughter has been quarantining and doing homework at home Credit: male media
An actor who played roles in Peaky Blinders and Emmerdale died alone a few hours after being sent home from the hospital. An investigation has been heard.

Toby Kirkup, 48 years old, Stayed at Huddersfield Royal Hospital on August 29 After he experienced chest pain and a tingling sensation in his arm.

The doctor diagnosed him with gastritis, and he was sent back to the Titanic factory in Slythwaite.

But later that afternoon, his condition deteriorated and he began to vomit before he finally had a cardiac arrest, the Bradford Coroner Court learned.

The autopsy proved that his death was caused by natural causes-but his family was worried about his treatment.

Read our Tony Kirkup blog for the latest news about his death
The child tax credit is compared to the universal basic income of children, which helps people pay for monthly expenses.

Approximately 35 million American households have begun to receive their first monthly expenditures from the U.S. government, which is an expanded income support program, which President Joe Biden said on Thursday may help to end Child poverty.

Under President Bidens expanded childrens tax credit program COVID-19 irritation, Eligible families can receive an initial payment of up to $300 per month for each child under the age of 6, and each older child can receive up to $250.

Payments to families in July totaled approximately US$15 billion, covering nearly 60 million eligible children. Many U.S. taxpayers pay automatically, while others require registration.

As part of the $3.5 trillion spending plan being considered by the Democrats in the Senate, Biden hopes to expand monthly benefits in the next few years, and they expect the Republicans to strongly oppose the entire bill.

The Columbia University Center for Poverty and Social Policy estimates that this expansion could reduce the poverty rate among American children by as much as 45% [Evan Vucci/AP Photo]

Biden said in a speech: This is another big step for us to end child poverty in the United States. This may change the lives of many families.

The child tax credit is compared to the universal basic income of children, although it has income restrictions. It is expected to help people pay for monthly expenses from rent to food and day care.

The Columbia University Center for Poverty and Social Policy estimates that this expansion could reduce the poverty rate of American children by as much as 45%.

Critics say that expanding credit is costly and may hinder people from working. Some experts say that it may not cover some of the poorest Americans who are not in the tax system.

Democrat-backed $1.9 trillion COVID-19 legislation is called American Rescue Plan The bill enacted in March increased the amount paid to families under the plan.

The law requires the IRS to pay half of the tax credit for the 2021 tax year in monthly installments from July to December this year.

Biden proposes to make monthly advance payments permanent and maintain expanded benefits until at least 2025.

Republican Senator Marco Rubio of Florida successfully supported the increase in credit in 2017. He said that the Democratic Partys plan would turn benefits into an anti-work benefit check because almost every family is now eligible for this payment. Regardless of whether the parents have a job.

Rubio said: Bidens plan not only abandons marriage incentives and job requirements, but also breaks the child support enforcement system as we know it by sending cash to single parents to pay cash, Rubio said. . A statement was issued on Wednesday.

At a press conference on the expansion of child tax credit payments at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer stood behind a mock U.S. Treasury check [Kevin Lamarque/Reuters]

The government disputed these claims. The Ministry of Finance estimates that 97% of tax credit recipients have wages or self-employment income, while the other 3% are grandparents or have health problems. The joint filers credit has also begun to be phased out, at US$150,000, so it will not hinder the poor from working, because work will only bring them more income.

Colorado Democratic Senator Michael Bennet said the problem is one of inequality. He said that in recent decades, economic growth has benefited the top 10% of people with incomes, while families are struggling with rising housing, childcare and healthcare costs. He said his voters in Colorado worry that their children will be poorer than previous generations, and therefore need to expand the child tax credit.

This is the most progressive change in the history of the U.S. tax law, Bennett told reporters.
BRITAIN could be back in lockdown in just 11 weeks time as cases spiral just as restrictions are eased, experts fear.

Boris has begged Brits not to go crazy next week as Covid restrictions are eased  and stressed July 19 should not be treated as a great jubilee.

But there are fears that cases will top 200,000 a day by the peak of the third wave in August  with the all-important hospitalisations number hitting 2,000 a day, greatly limited thanks to our incredible vaccine rollout.

With such high numbers in hospital  mostly the unvaccinated and people for whom the vaccine is less effective, such as the immunocompromised  deaths of 100 to 200 are likely.

And at a press conference last night Chris Whitty appeared less than confident that the NHS would be able to cope with an additional 2,000 people admitted to hospitals every single day over the coming weeks.

There is now genuine concerns that in ease restrictions while cases rise, Britain is only setting itself for future lockdowns with Boris September 30 review the point at which lockdown measures are likely to return.

Read our coronavirus live blog below for the latest updates
Newest:

As many Asian countries deal with the surge in their most severe COVID-19 infections, the slow flow of vaccine doses from around the world has finally accelerated, which brings hope that low vaccination rates can increase and help weaken the rapidly spreading delta The impact of variants.

However, as many vaccine promises have not been fulfilled and infection rates have soared in many countries, experts say that more needs to be done to help countries that are struggling with too many patients and shortages of oxygen and other key supplies.

Approximately 1.5 million doses of the Moderna vaccine arrived in Indonesia on Thursday afternoon, and the country has become a major hot spot for infections and deaths to record highs.

The Indonesian Ministry of Health reported 54,517 new confirmed cases on Wednesday, up from about 8,000 cases a month ago. The country began rolling out vaccines in January, but only about 5.8% of its 270 million people have been vaccinated with both vaccines.

Competition between vaccines and variants

Before the U.S. shipment, 3 million doses of Moderna vaccine arrived in the United States on Sunday, and 11.7 million doses of AstraZeneca have been shipped in batches through the UN-supported COVAX mechanism since March. the last time.

This is very encouraging, said UNICEF Indonesia Health Director Somia Kadandale, who is responsible for distributing the vaccines provided through COVAX. It now appears that it is not just a competition between vaccines and variants in Indonesia. I hope we can win this competition.

Many people, including the World Health Organization, have been criticizing the inequality of vaccines in the world, pointing out that more than half of the population in many rich countries are at least partially vaccinated, while the vast majority of people in low-income countries are still waiting for the first dose.

The International Red Cross warned this week that the global vaccine gap is widening and said that rich countries need to accelerate the pace of fulfilling their pledges.

Vietnam, Thailand, and South Korea have all implemented new lockdown restrictions in the past week as they struggled to control the rapidly rising infections despite slow vaccination campaigns.

Although most of the products delivered recently are from the United States, as part of a bilateral agreement, Japan shipped 1 million doses of AstraZeneca to Indonesia, Taiwan and Vietnam on Thursday, and Vietnam said it would receive 1.5 million doses of AstraZeneca from Australia. .

The Philippines is expected to have 16 million doses of vaccine in July, including 3.2 million doses from the United States later this week, 1.1 million doses from Japan, 132,000 doses of Sputnik V from Russia, and other vaccines through COVAX. Japan also sent US$11 million to Bangladesh, Cambodia, Iran, Laos, Nepal, Sri Lanka and other countries through COVAX this month.

On Thursday, health workers injected AstraZenecas COVID-19 vaccine at a vaccination center in Bangkok. (Sakchai Lalit/Associated Press)

Canada this week promised additional 17.7 million AstraZeneca excess doses To the 100 million pledged by COVAX, this is coordinated by the vaccine alliance GAVI. As of June, France has delivered 1.7 million doses of vaccine globally through COVAX, and millions more doses will be sent this summer.

In addition to distributing some donated vaccines, the financial contribution to COVAX also helps fund the purchase of doses for free distribution to 92 low- or middle-income countries.

Earlier this month, the African Union severely criticized how long it would take for the vaccine to reach the continent, noting that only 1% of Africans were fully vaccinated.

-From the Associated Press and Reuters, the last update time is 7 am EST

Whats happening in canada

Watch | Canada lacks national standards for COVID-19 vaccination certificates: Canada does not have a national standard for COVID-19 vaccination certificates, so provinces and companies have created a mishmash approach. 1:54

As of early Thursday morning, Canada had reported 1,421,831 confirmed COVID-19 cases, of which 4,830 were considered active. The countrys COVID-19 death toll is 26,458. To date, more than 43.8 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been vaccinated across the country. CBC News Statistics.

There were only three new cases of COVID-19 in Atlantic Canada on Wednesday.Health officials in Newfoundland and Labrador Said that these cases were found among people on a ship currently moored near the coast. The Provincial Health Department said that eight crew members on one ship tested positive and there were 14 cases on the other ship.

No new cases were reported on Wednesday Nova Scotia, New Brunswick or Prince Edward Island,some of them COVID-19 Testing Center Closing.

in Quebec, Where the doctor warned Overburdened emergency room And a shortage of nursing staff, health officials report no additional deaths and 75 new cases COVID-19 on Wednesday.

Ontario Health officials reported another 7 deaths and 153 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday.

In the prairie provinces, Manitoba There were no new deaths on Wednesday 53 additional cases COVID-19. The province will enter the second phase of its reopening plan on Saturday-weeks ahead of schedule.

The Chief Public Health Officer of Manitoba, Dr. Brent Roussin, said at a briefing that as he announced these changes, the vaccination efforts were achieving results, including Relax restrictions At an indoor party.

Saskatchewan, While reporting 18 new cases COVID-19 emerged on Wednesday and there were no new deaths.

Health officials in Alberta 1 death was reported on Wednesday and 46 new COVID-19 infection.

Throughout the north, no new cases were reported on Wednesday Nunavut, This North-west region or Yukon Territory Where is the official Expand the number of people allowed to gather Under COVID-19 restrictions, more than three-quarters of residents have been fully vaccinated.

in British Columbia, There are no new death records on Wednesday, and 41 new cases COVID-19.

-From CBC News and Canadian media, the last update time is 6:55 am EST

What is happening around the world

Earlier this week, artificial flowers decorated a cross in the cemetery in the COVID-19 section of the Chacarita Cemetery in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (Victor R. Cavano/Associated Press)

According to the US-based case tracking tool, as of early Thursday morning, more than 188.4 million COVID-19 cases have been reported worldwide. Johns Hopkins UniversityThe reported global death toll exceeds 4 million.

inside America, Argentina reported more than 100,000 deaths from COVID-19, which was a heavy blow to a country that intermittently implemented the worlds most severe lockdown measures, but found that many peoples compliance was unstable.

The recent variants of the coronavirus have helped spread the disease faster, and although the vaccine program has made progress, it is still insufficient.

The Ministry of Health said on Wednesday that 614 people have died from the disease in the past 24 hours, bringing the total death toll to 100,250.

in AfricaAfter reporting a new daily record of 733 cases, Senegal is experiencing an unprecedented surge in infections.

inside Asia Pacific Regions, Australia reported on Thursday that the number of new COVID-19 cases in Sydney has slowed, while Melbourne and other parts of Victoria were ordered to undergo a five-day lockdown on Thursday following a surge in COVID-19 infections. The two main population centers of the country have been battling the outbreak of the delta variant.

in EuropeFor the first time in the past six months, the number of daily coronavirus cases in the UK has exceeded 40,000. Government data showed another 42,302 infections, the highest daily number since the country was severely locked down after the deadly second wave of pandemic on January 15.

Watch | As England prepares to remove most COVID-19 restrictions, caution is urged: England will remove most of the COVID-19 restrictions on Monday, including mask requirements and physical distance. But as the number of cases increased, some experts said the move was reckless. 2:02

Cases are expected to increase, and the government has warned that there may be an unprecedented 100,000 daily infections this summer.

The sharp increase in cases in the more contagious Delta in recent weeks has raised concerns that the UK will ease restrictions on Monday, which will remove legal restrictions on social contact and wearing masks.

inside middle EastAccording to local media reports, Kuwait reported 11 deaths and 1,623 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday.

-From the Associated Press and Reuters, the last update time is 7:05 am EST
Danny Dells criminal boyfriend Sammy Kidmans cried in court because he was sentenced to 3 years in prison

Love Island star Dani Dyers boyfriend was sentenced to 3.5 years in prison for defrauding two OAPs from more than 34,000.

Sammy Kimmence pretended that he would invest on behalf of Peter Martin and Peter Haynes, but the 25-year-old used the money to buy designer clothes, pay off overdrafts, pay expensive restaurant bills and book a trip to Ibiza as a victim. Was left on the bread line.

Kimmence shared a son, Santiago, with his girlfriend Dani, who sobbed when he went to prison on Wednesday.

Judge Timothy Mousley QC of the Portsmouth Royal Court said: You did not immediately show any remorse. I dont think any remorse is deep.

You lied a lot of money to two people, both old gentlemen, not rich.

Although these people trust you, you use their money to fund your lifestyle.
An 18-year-old physics student whose father runs an investment management company in the Netherlands. He will fly to space with American billionaire Jeff Bezos on Tuesdayinstead of investing $28 million in auctions. people. Bezos Blue Origins first space travel flight.

Oliver Daemen will join the four civilian crew members scheduled to fly on Tuesday and become the youngest person to enter space after the auction winner (whose name has not yet been made public) withdrew due to an unspecified scheduling conflict People. Blue Origin said on Thursday. This news made Daemen the companys first paying customer.

According to Blue Origin, this also means that the flight will include the oldest person ever-82-year-old pioneering female pilot Wally Fink-and the youngest person.

Joining them in the Blue Origin suborbital launch will be Bezos and his brother Mark Bezos.

Blue Origin said that Daemen is working hard to obtain his pilot license and plans to enter Utrecht University in the Netherlands in September to study physics and innovation management. His father, Joe Daemen, is the CEO and founder of Somerset Capital Partners, a Dutch investment company based in Oisterwijk, the Netherlands.

Blue Origin said that the elder Daemen paid for the seat and chose to ride Oliver. The company declined to say how much it paid.

The company said in a press release: A ride on the new Shepard will realize Olivers lifelong dream. He has been fascinated by space, the moon and rockets since he was four years old.

Bezos has been competing with billionaire rivals Richard Branson and Elon Musk as they seek to open a new era of commercial space travel in the tourism market, which UBS estimates that this market may be possible every year for ten years. Valued at 3 billion U.S. dollars.

New Shepard is an 18.3 meter high, fully autonomous rocket and capsule combination that cannot be piloted from inside the spacecraft. The launch will take place at a site in western Texas.

On Sunday, British billionaire businessman Branson carried out a groundbreaking suborbital flight from New Mexico on a Virgin Galactic rocket plane.
A schoolboy who raped and strangled four children in a month-long violent rampage can be exposed today-he is 18 years old.

The predator Egan Ritchie was only 15 years old when he committed the despicable crime in 2019-but his identity was concealed because of his age.

1 The 18-year-old predator Egan Ritche was unveiled

One of the survivors of the beast was severely throttled, and she passed out, thinking she would die on his hands.

He denied his crimes, but was convicted after a trial at the end of last year-but remained anonymous due to his age.

Only after he forced four traumatized teenagers to provide evidence, did Rich casually admit that he had abused him.

The police called him a dangerous predator, while the judge called his behavior disturbing and serious.

Disgusting crime

Ridge in Ayrshire in southwest Scotland was convicted of nine counts of assault, rape and threats, and was detained for seven years.

The court heard that he attacked the four girls near his home.

Lord Arthurson said: In the case of three girls, you strangled their necks with both hands.

One person lost consciousness, thinking she would die. You threatened to kill three girls.

The judge said that he had read a victim impact statement provided by a girl and stated that the impact of the young mans behavior on her continued to have a serious adverse effect on her life.

Defense attorney Tim Niven-Smith (Tim Niven-Smith) said that the young man accepted the results of the jurys investigation during the trial and now admits this behavior.

Detective Inspector Martin Prendergast said: This teenager is a dangerous predator. He has no remorse for the victims. They are all children.

He took advantage of their weaknesses, and his actions will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on them.

For such a young person, these are terrible crimes, and we welcome his conviction.
Heavy downpours triggered flash floods in parts of western and central Germany, causing property damage and traffic disruption.

Heavy rains triggered flash floods in parts of Germany, damaged houses and interrupted traffic. At least 6 people were killed and dozens of people were missing.

Police in the western city of Koblenz said on Twitter on Thursday that 4 people had died in Ahrweiler County and about 50 people were trapped on the roofs of houses waiting for rescue.

Local police said that many of the people reported missing were on the roofs of at least six houses washed away by floods in Schulder, where rain caused the river to burst its banks.

Heavy rain hits most of North Rhine-Westphalia [Sascha Steinbach/EPA] Railway, road and river transportation interrupted [Friedemann Vogel/EPA]

After days of heavy rains disrupted railway, road and river transportation, the authorities declared a state of emergency in the area. Large parts of western and central Germany and neighboring countries have suffered extensive damage.

Police said an 82-year-old man died after falling over a flooded basement in the western city of Wuppertal, one of the worst-hit cities.

Authorities said that a firefighter drowned in a rescue effort in the western German town of Altena on Wednesday, and another man disappeared in the eastern town of Joch after trying to protect his property from rising water levels. Stadt is missing.

The German Meteorological Agency warned in its morning announcement that there may be heavy rains in southwestern Germany on Thursday, which will continue to rain until Friday night.
Haitian authorities on Thursday strongly opposed reports that current government officials participated in the killing of Haitian President Giovinel Moise, calling it a lie.

The head of the Haitian National Police, Leon Charles, denied the report by the Colombian private television station Caracol News, which claimed that Interim Prime Minister Claude Joseph was the mastermind of the July 7 murder.

The police warned that all publicity would cause diversion, he said, adding that the police had no evidence to support these claims.

Otherwise, the Haitian authorities were not happy to provide information about who might be behind the killing, which shows that media reports involving current officials have touched the nerves of the government.

In Colombia, General Jorge Luis Vargas, the head of the countrys national police force, told reporters that he had no information to indicate that Joseph played any role in the conspiracy.

Charles also said that Moises security chief, Dimitri Herard, had been dismissed and detained in isolation after officials interrogated him. In recent days, the police announced that he was detained. Charles said that the authorities will meet with him for the third time before deciding what to do next.

On July 8, Interim President Claude Joseph delivered a speech at a press conference held at his residence in Port-au-Prince. (Joseph Odlin/Associated Press)

Herald was not officially listed as a suspect in the investigation, but many Haitians questioned how the attackers could invade the presidential palace among those designated to protect the president and kill him without being injured.

The press conference was held a day after the Columbia TV broadcast a report, which said it was based on information from FBI sources and Haitian authorities, as well as the phone calls, pictures and testimonies of people accused of participating in the conspiracy.

I officially deny these allegations, Charles said, calling them lie.

When the assassination occurred, Interim Prime Minister Joseph was about to be replaced. After the resignation of Joseph Joute, who had held the position for just over a year, Moise appointed him to the position in April.

Two days before the assassination, Moise announced that he had chosen a new prime minister, neurosurgeon Ariel Henry. But as of July 7, the new prime minister had not been sworn in. Joseph insisted that he was in charge of the government. This statement was recognized by the United States and other countries.

Watch | I call every day to confirm that they are still alive:

As Haiti plunges further into turmoil, Canadian families hope that the federal government will speed up refugee applications and permanent residency applications so that they can take family members out of danger. 1:46

Charles said police arrested 23 people, including 18 former Colombian soldiers, three Haitians and two Haitian Americans. He said the police also issued seven arrest warrants, searched 10 buildings, conducted 27 interrogations, and isolated four senior police officers.

He added that the investigation benefited from the help of the FBI and his unnamed foreign country.

On Thursday, Colombian President Ivan Duque told private radio La FM that only a small group of former Colombian soldiers involved in the killing knew it would be a criminal operation. He said that the others were deceived and thought they would go on duty to provide protection.

Once they got there, the information they got changed, Duke said, adding that they ended up being involved in these unfortunate incidents.

The Pentagon issued a statement saying that a small number of Colombian suspects had previously received U.S. military training and education programs during their service in the Colombian army. It stated that no other details could be provided until the review is still in progress.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harrys baby daughter Lily Bate will be friendly, smart and useful constellations

Last month, on June 4th, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry welcomed the second baby Lilibet Lili Diana Mountbatten-Windsor.

Tarot Queen Kriging analyzed the childs birthday and revealed what kind of energy the newborn baby will bring to their home in California.

Lilibets birthday falls within the Gemini date (May 22 to June 21). Gemini is the liar in the zodiac, the most naughty, young and curious sign.

Ruled by Mercury, which affects commerce, communications, and speed.

Gemini children are definitely a minority (in fact, Gemini adults are also the same). They will do nothing, ask all kinds of questions all day long, full of nervous, lively, and friendly energy. Gemini is fast and smart at everything.

Read more here.
The Pentagon stated that some of the former Colombian soldiers accused of killing Haitian President Yorvernell Moys had been trained by the United States.

A small number of former Colombian soldiers accused of participating Assassinate The Pentagon said on Thursday that Haitian President Jovenel Moise received US military training this month.

Haitian authorities say Mois is Shot On July 7, his home was attacked by a team of assassins, including 26 Colombians and two Haitian Americans.

Eighteen Colombians were detained and three others were killed by the police. Family members and colleagues in Colombia told reporters that these people were hired as bodyguards.

Pentagon spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Ken said: A review of our training database revealed that a small percentage of Colombians detained as part of this investigation had participated in U.S. military training and education programs and were also members of the Colombian military. Active members. Hoffman said in a statement to Al Jazeera.

Hoffman did not specify how many detained Colombians had received training.

He said that the U.S. military regularly trains military personnel in the region, adding that the training emphasizes and promotes respect for human rights, observance of the rule of law, and subordination of the military to the democratically elected civilian leadership.

U.S. security company faces scrutiny

At the same time, a small security company in Miami, Florida, which employs former Columbian soldiers, faces questions about its role in the assassination of Moiz.

Antonio Tony Intriago, owner of CTU Security, saw a seemingly good opportunity: to find someone with military experience to work in Haiti. Intriago is now under scrutiny by Haitian and Colombian police officials.

On Wednesday, the head of the Haitian National Police, Leon Charles, accused Intriago of repeatedly traveling to Haiti as part of the assassination plot and signing contracts there, but did not provide other details or provide any evidence.

The investigation is very advanced, Charles said.

Charles previously announced arrest The 63-year-old Haitian Christian Emmanuel Sanon (Christian Emmanuel Sanon) is accused of being the mastermind behind the assassination plot. He lives in Florida and hired the CTU security department.

Charles said on Sunday: He arrived in June on a private jet with political purposes and contacted a private security company to recruit people who committed the act.

General Jorge Luis Vargas, chief of the Colombian National Police, said that CTU Security used its corporate credit card to purchase 19 air tickets from Bogota to Santo Domingo for Colombian suspects suspected of participating in the killing. Duberney Capador, one of the killed Colombians, took a photo of himself wearing a black CTU safety polo shirt.

Nelson Romero Velasquez (Nelson Romero Velasquez), a former soldier and lawyer, advised 16 Colombian families imprisoned in Haiti. He said on Wednesday that all of them had worked in the elite special forces of the Colombian army. In service, if they wish, they can act without being noticed. He said their behavior showed that they were not going to Haiti to assassinate the president.

They have the ability to be like shadows, Romero Velazquez said.

The pre-dawn attack occurred in the presidents private residence. He was shot and his wife was wounded. It is not clear who pulled the trigger. The latest suspects discovered in the full investigation include a former Haitian senator, a dismissed government official and a U.S. government informant.

The US Department of Homeland Security Investigation, a US agency responsible for investigating crimes across international borders, is also investigating the assassination. An official from the Department of Homeland Security declined to be named because he did not have the right to discuss the case, he told the Associated Press. He declined to provide details.

The FBI said it is providing investigation assistance to the Haitian authorities.

Intriago, who immigrated from Venezuela more than ten years ago and participated in activities against the leftist regime in his hometown in Miami, did not respond to multiple interview requests from the Associated Press.
A spokesman for the Afghan governments negotiating team in Doha said that the armed groups proposal is big demand.

A senior negotiator from the Afghan government said on Thursday that the Taliban had proposed a three-month ceasefire in exchange for the release of thousands of fighters held in prisons because the armed group controlled a key border crossing with Pakistan.

Nader Nadery, spokesman for the Afghan governments negotiating team in Doha, Qatars capital, said this is a big need. The peace talks between the Taliban and Afghan leaders in Doha have stalled for several months.

The Taliban proposed a three-month ceasefire plan, but in exchange, they demanded the release of 7,000 prisoners and the removal of their leaders from the UN blacklist, he told reporters in Kabul.

Last year, the Afghan government released nearly 5,000 Taliban prisoners as part of an exchange to help initiate peace talks in Qatar. These measures are part of an agreement between the Taliban and the United States, which also requires the withdrawal of U.S. troops from the country.

A Taliban spokesperson said he only knew of the proposal to cease fire during the upcoming Eid al-Adha.

The Taliban are launching a relentless battle in various parts of Afghanistan. Almost all American and NATO troops have withdrawn from Afghanistan, and the Afghan army is facing a crisis.

Fighters of the organization occupied the Spin Boldak-Chaman border crossing on Wednesday, the second most important border crossing with Pakistan and an important source of income for the Western-backed Kabul government.

In recent weeks, Afghan armed groups have also occupied border crossings with Iran, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. The organization has been launching an armed rebellion since it was ousted in a US-led invasion in 2001.

Pakistans Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed on Thursday that the Afghan side of the Chaman border crossing is in the hands of the Taliban. This move prompted Pakistan to close the border on its side.

A group of unruly mobs of about 400 people tried to force through the gate. They threw stones and forced us to use tear gas, said a Pakistani security official who asked not to be named, adding that the situation later got control.

He said about 1,500 people gathered at the border on Wednesday waiting to cross the border.

The border crossing has direct access to Pakistans Balochistan province, where the supreme leader of the Taliban has been stationed for decades.

Kamal Hyder of Al Jazeera from Peshawar, Pakistan reported that the acquisition of Spin Boldak was unexpected.

A humanitarian crisis is beginning to emerge, Hyde said.

Thousands of people [were] Run aground on both sides.This is a very busy border because most medical emergencies cross from Afghanistan to Pakistan, because there are better medical facilities and many families [were going to cross] Go to see their relatives, because Eid al-Fitr is approaching. 

On Thursday, the Afghan Taliban and the Pakistani government agreed to reopen the border crossing to allow stranded personnel to pass.

Casefire to consolidate power

Islamabad announced on Thursday that it had invited some Afghan leaders to participate in the weekend peace meeting, but an aide to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani told local media that his government had requested the postponement of the meeting and that politicians had already traveled to Qatar.

Muska Dastageer, a lecturer at the American University of Afghanistan, said that any ceasefire proposal by the Taliban could be an attempt to consolidate the position they quickly gained in recent weeks.

The ceasefire now will effectively prohibit (Afghan army) from retaking key border points recently occupied by the Taliban, she wrote on Twitter.

I think the timing of this ceasefire proposal is more related to their desire to consolidate power in these areas.
Kabul, Afghanistan  When 30-year-old Ali Atayee attended his first computer course as an Afghan refugee child growing up in Iran, he knew that this was the profession he wanted to pursue as an adult.

In the following years, when he returned to Afghanistan, with this goal, Atayee devoted all his energy, time and resources to studying computer science, especially network development.

Atayee graduated from the famous Afghan American University in Kabul and worked with many growing information technology (IT) companies and development projects in the countrys small but thriving IT department.

In the past few years, Atayee has converted to work as a freelance web developer for a local company.

I am passionate about computer programming, but I also saw how the situation in Afghanistan improved at the time. I speculate that when I graduate, there will be more development and opportunities in the industry, he told Al Jazeera.

With more and more Afghans going online (12.8 million Afghan Internet users as of 2021), the industry has flourished in the past 20 years.

A 2012 report by the United States Agency for International Development pointed out that the telecommunications sector has become one of the largest income-generating sectors in Afghanistan, with an average annual income of 139.6 million U.S. dollars, accounting for more than 12% of the total government revenue.

Many experts believe that the IT department in Afghanistan is one of the few successful cases in this war-torn country.

This is an industry in which the public and private sectors can form a partnership to provide services to Afghans, while generating revenue for the government and private companies, said Mohamed Najib Aziz, former director of the Afghan Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (ATRA) (Mohammad Najeeb Azizi), told Al Jazeera.

Ali Atayee working on his laptop during a power outage in Kabul [Ruchi Kumar/Al Jazeera]

However, as the conflict in Afghanistan worsens, this potential is quickly fading, and US-led troops withdraw from the country, and the Taliban have regained their foothold in the country that once ruled with an iron fist.

In the past two months, with the Talibans national victory, Afghanistans IT and other infrastructure have been frequently attacked.

On July 5, Taliban militants blew up fiber optic equipment and system equipment in Islam Qala, Herat Province, a border city and an important trading port on the border with Iran.

Islam Kala is also an immigration crossing point, where many international non-governmental organizations operate and cooperate with thousands of expelled refugees every day.

The Taliban attack prevented residents of the city from connecting to the Internet.

Last month, ATRA reported that in the past three months, a total of 28 telecommunications antennas were destroyed across the country, and another 23 were partially damaged due to ongoing conflicts, which severely affected the countrys digital and mobile communications services.

At the same time, the power infrastructure of this impoverished country was also dismantled, making the power supply of the capital Kabul extremely unstable.

In the past six months, 39 electrical towers that supplied electricity to Afghanistan were damaged, Sangar Niazi, spokesperson for the countrys national power supplier Da Afghanistan Breshna Sherkat (DABS), told Al Jazeera.

Afghanistan imports nearly 70% of its 1,600 MW electricity demand from neighboring countries through these towers.

Some were completely destroyed, while others were partially damaged, affecting the electricity supply in Kunduz, Baghlan, Kabul, Nangarhar and Parwan provinces, Nyazi said.

Afghan workers are repairing the destroyed tower [Courtesy of Da Afghanistan Breshna Sherkat]

Although Nyazi did not disclose who the attackers were, the Afghan government often blames the Taliban for infrastructure damage.

Millions of Afghans are already very familiar with regular power outages and are forced to complete daily tasks and housework under a few hours of power supply.

However, the power shortage has severely hit the countrys small IT departments, especially young professionals like Atayee.

People in Kabul can only use electricity for a few hours a day, some even less than an hour, which is only enough to charge your device, and then the power is cut off, he said, to emphasize the power and Internet outages. The challenge of delivering the work.

As a freelance web developer, Atayee has been working hard to meet the deadlines of his ongoing projects.

I can hardly complete any work recently, all tasks are piled up. A few days ago, due to unstable current, my laptop charger was burned. It not only slowed down my work, but also tried to help them The launch of the new business website has brought problems to customers, he told Al Jazeera.

If I dont deliver on time, I will lose customers.

Atayee said the lack of proper infrastructure also prevents Afghan companies from going online.

They are hesitant to bring their business online or take advantage of technology. It will affect customers and professionals in the field, he said.

Compared with other countries, we are so backward in the use of technology. We should at least have the ability to pay online now.

Many companies in the Kabul IT sector have purchased large generators and invested in appropriate backup power to ensure continuous supply. But costs eroded their profits.

For small businesses and freelancers like Atayee, this also means that previously seemingly plentiful job opportunities are no longer profitable.

When the infrastructure is not ideal, companies will not invest in online space. As a result, there are fewer and fewer technology-related jobs. Many people who study this profession are working in other fields, he said.

Business experts in Afghanistan warn that if the conflict continues at the same rate, additional infrastructure costs and risks will hinder new investments.

When the warring factions shut down services, it will affect the revenue generation of these companies and make it difficult for them to justify the costs. This may lead to the decision to actively close the site or reduce the investment in its maintenance, thereby depriving the locals of these basic services. Azizi, former director of ATRAa, said.

It is not only private companies that are financially affected by the Talibans attacks on IT and power infrastructure. DABS spokesperson Niazi told Al Jazeera that the cost of repairing power towers has been increasing, putting pressure on government finances.

If a tower is completely destroyed, restore it to approximately US$100,000. Other minor losses incurred costs between US$500 and US$5,000, he said, adding that the Afghan National Power Company has only been In the middle of the month, nearly $1 million was spent.

According to Aziz, it is ordinary citizens who are most affected by the destruction of infrastructure.

He said: Afghans use communication services not only to improve their lives, but also to keep in touch with their loved ones at such a critical moment.

Telecom is a public service infrastructure and a basic need of the Afghan people.

Aziz called on the fighting factions to protect basic services not only used by ordinary citizens, but also by the warring parties.

Nyazi said that the Taliban attackers are enemies of light and they are turning an important infrastructure into a victim of another war.

This is not only an attempt to push the country into material darkness, but also ideological darkness.
In the middle of the night on July 7, a group of militants stormed into the private residence of Haitian President Giovenel Moise and shot him to death. This shameless murder shocked Haitian society. Although it is unclear who hired the killers and why they hired them, there are already clues to Colombian mercenaries, an American security company, and various opponents of Moise in the country.

The president was unpopular, and in an atmosphere of uncertainty, he tried to extend his term. In the coming weeks, Haitians will have to deal with the political impact of assassinations, power struggles, and the suppression of protests.

At the same time, the international media sees these events as yet another episode of chaos in Haitis turbulent politics, and the international community-namely the United States and the United Nations-will once again seek to stabilize the country. The problem with this narrative is that it conceals a history of violent foreign intervention. Haitians are constantly forced to pay for their freedom, and it does more harm than good.

History of foreign interference

Talking about the assassination of Moyes and its consequences seems hard not to fall into the cliches about chaos, turmoil, poverty and corruption. An editorial in the New York Times described the incident in a similar way: Haitis already turbulent political landscape may be further into chaos on Thursday, because after the assassination of President Governell Moise, The power struggle between the two competing prime ministers has increased tensions.

This type of media portrays that Haitians cannot govern themselves and that what is happening in the country is the result of local corruption, incompetence and unruly. However, looking at what is happening only from the perspective of local chaos will ignore the long history of foreign intervention, which systematically undermines Haitis struggle for freedom and democracy.

On August 22, 1791, the enslaved Africans broke out in an uprising in what was then called the French colony of Saint Domingue. For more than ten years, black revolutionaries have been fighting against colonial rule. On January 1, 1804, Haiti became the first autonomous black society in the Americas.

But this is not consistent with the defeated colonial power France, which continues to try to restore its colonial rule over Haiti. In 1825, under the threat of another French invasion, the Haitian government led by President Jean-Pierre Boyer agreed to pay independence compensation to France, which led to continued financial instability in the country.

But it did not stop there, and Haitis political sovereignty has not been fully respected by its powerful neighbor, the United States.

For decades, Washington has tried to establish a foothold in Haiti, trying to control its ports or customs, but has encountered resistance from Haiti. At the beginning of the 20th century, it regularly dispatched navy to the waters of Haiti. In 1914, the US Marine Corps landed in Haiti, forcibly went to the National Bank of Haiti, seized $500,000 and shipped it to New York. The following year, a U.S. delegation proposed to the Haitian government for U.S. military protection but was rejected.

In July 1915, Haitian President Jean Vilbrun Guillaume was assassinated and American President Woodrow Wilson dispatched American troops to occupy the country. They stayed here for 19 years, during which time the US government implemented the Jim Crow apartheid system, restricted press freedom, and indulged in violence against Haitians.

However, foreign intervention did not end with the withdrawal of American troops from Haiti in 1934. In the mid-1980s, the country transitioned from authoritarian rule to republican democracy, but in the next 30 years, the presidency changed hands 20 times.

In 1990, Jean-Bertrand Aristide became the first elected President of Haiti. Within a year, he was deposed in a coup, in which an intelligence agency trained and funded by the CIA participated in the coup. In 1994, he returned to Haiti under the protection of the US military. Aristide was re-elected in 2000, but was forced to step down again after another armed uprising that he believed was planned by foreign forces.

The story of Aristide is a typical example of how American intervention continues to undermine the development of democracy in Haiti. As Jemima Pierre, professor of anthropology at the University of California, Los Angeles, pointed out: At least since 2004, the United States is responsible for the complete destruction of Haitis democracy and the complete loss of Haitis sovereignty.

After the coup against Aristide, Haiti entered another period of foreign military occupation.This time the United Nations has sent peacekeeping troops to Caribbean countries after determining the Haiti situation. [constituted] It poses a threat to international peace and security in the region.

It deployed thousands of foreign troops and police with a budget of 200 million U.S. dollars. They were powerless to improve the situation in the country and eventually caused a devastating cholera epidemic and committed a series of sexual crimes.

According to Mamyrah Prosper, Professor of African Studies at Davidson College, the United Nations has also made the security situation worse: The United Nations is here [in Haiti] 17 years, but in these 17 years and those years, there were more guns on our territory than before. 

The failure of the aid industry

The unstable government succession of the past few decades and the growing economic dependence on the United States have greatly restricted the Haitian governments ability to provide services to its citizens. The 2010 earthquake, followed by an outbreak of cholera, destroyed the country and hindered development efforts. The government struggled to deal with large-scale destruction and deprivation.

As a result, Haiti had become a hot spot in the aid industry before the earthquake, but found itself at the center of large-scale humanitarian operations. More than $13 billion in humanitarian aid and donations poured into the country, including development projects sponsored by American companies and loans from neighboring Latin American countries.

International development efforts failed to help rebuild the country and provide probation for Haitians, but they failed to significantly improve living conditions.

After the earthquake, Bill and Hillary Clinton became the two main supporters of Haitis development projects. They believed that the solution to the countrys plight was to attract investment from multinational companies. They participated in the launch of the industrial park project Caracol, which aims to promote economic development through the expansion of manufacturing and infrastructure. Ten years and hundreds of millions of dollars later, the project is far from reaching its marketing goals. Its port development part was even abandoned.

Similarly, the United States Agency for International Development spent $4.4 billion after the earthquake, but its effects were barely felt on the ground. Jack Johnston, a researcher at the Center for Economics and Policy Research in the United States, pointed out that only 2% of the funds went directly to the Haitian organization, and most went to contractors in the United States.

Of course, this is not to say that Haitian officials have not been involved in wasting and embezzling aid funds to hinder humanitarian and development efforts.

For example, between 2008 and 2016, the Venezuelan plan PetroCaribe, which provides funding for the development of the entire Caribbean region, spent approximately US$4 billion on more than 400 projects in Haiti. However, most of the funds were misappropriated and no major development milestones were achieved.

Take back the sovereignty of Haiti

After Moise was assassinated, Acting Prime Minister Claude Joseph announced that he would take over power during this period. However, he was quickly challenged by Ariel Henry, who was appointed Prime Minister by Moise on July 5 to succeed Joseph. The Speaker of the Senate, Joseph Lambert, also put forward demands for power.

The political crisis has worsened due to the absence of an effective National Assembly (whose term expired after Moiss postponement of the election due to the COVID-19 pandemic last year) and the paralysis of the Supreme Court due to the recent death of its president.

The election is scheduled to be held in September, and many Haitians are anxious about what will happen during the voting. Haitian activists call for transparent and fair elections without foreign interference.

Haitians are fully capable of guiding their country in the right direction. Throughout history, they took to the streets to demand that their leaders take responsibility, even if they were attacked by bullets and batons. The protests are an integral part of the democratic process in Haiti. In recent years, Haitians have been protesting against the exercise of political sovereignty and the right to live with dignity, demanding an end to the United Nations occupation and Moises authoritarian rule.

The potential for change brought about by grassroots mobilization in Haiti is huge. Although the international community has generally ignored it, black activists around the world have not ignored this. As Ajamu Baraka, the representative of the Black Peace Alliance based in the United States, told me in a recent conversation: It is important that Haitians solve their own problems. If they are allowed, they can actually solve their own problems. In order to, If they dont have to deal with the interference of these foreign forces.

Its time to end this racialized chaotic narrative about Haiti and talk about the countrys past, present, and future in a true and objective way. For a long time, foreign powers have exerted an unstable influence on the country and undermined its democratic development. Only by acknowledging this reality, safeguarding Haitis sovereignty, and not undermining the Haitian peoples struggle for justice and dignity, can these powers clarify the facts. Haiti has all the potential to build a bright future for itself.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance.
LAFAYETTE - Louisiana's Coronavirus cases and hospitalizations are on the rise and health officials are now concerned about the possibility of yet another surge.

Ochsner University Hospital and Clinic is just one of a few hospitals in Lafayette that is having a spike in hosptalizations due to the coronavirus. Alpha, Beta, Gamma and now the most recent and contagious variant, Delta.

"Delta is definitley spreading a lot quicker, so when you have an exposure it can spread a lot faster." said Hebert

Other Covid variants could be transmitted from person to person in 15 minutes, Delta takes just two to three seconds - but with the spike in cases how do we know which variant we have?

"Assume that you have Delta because that is the predominent strain. As of a week ago it was 60% of the strains that are sampled and that's just going to grow."

Doctor Britini Hebert of Lafayette Internal Medicine and Clinic says Delta is a risk to everyone which is why residents like Melissa Sanchez whose immunocompromised got vaccinated.

"I've been a cancer patient, i had stage two breast cancer in 2019. june i was in my first year of remission and it;s very important to get vaccinated." said Sanchez

Louisiana has one of the lowest vaccination rates in our country with only 35.8% of Louisianians fully vaccinated. Now keep in mind that's only 0.3% higher in comparison to last weeks vaccination rates."

Now with Delta, getting vaccinated cannot guarantee you from transmission but ...

"It seems to be very effective at still at keeping you out of the hospital or off of a ventilator, we are seeing enough infections post vaccines now that are still seeing some people end up in the hospital or on a ventilator or die after thier vaccine." said Hebert

For those already fully vaccinated you are protected against the bad effects from Delta like Linda Meche who got vaccinated after being seprated from her grankids for nine months.

"You know you're not scared like you were before, now since I'm vaccinated, husband's vaccinated and you know were over 70 and you have to get vaccinated." said Meche

Right now in order to avoid another surge people will need to get vaccinated. If they don't, in just a couple of weeks Louisiana could go from 60% of it's residents having the Delta strain to 80 to 90%.

Dr. Hebert says the easiest way for us to help slow the surge is to simply wear our mask and socially distance ourselves.
SHREVEPORT, La. (AP)  A Louisiana man faces up to 30 years in prison after being convicted of killing a woman while he was driving drunk.

Sentencing is next month for 28-year-old Matthew J. Parks of Shreveport. The Caddo Parish district attorneys office said jurors Tuesday convicted Parks of vehicular homicide.

Prosecutors said Parks drove an SUV through a Shreveport intersection at about 60 mph on June 11, 2020, hitting a car driven by a 66-year-old woman. She died at the scene. A breath test determined Parks had a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit.

Defense attorneys said prosecutors failed to prove Parks was the driver of the SUV.
NBC News - Emergency approval for Covid-19 vaccines in children under 12 could come in early to midwinter, a Food and Drug Administration official said Thursday, a move that could bring relief to many parents who have been unable to vaccinate their children. The agency hopes to then move quickly to full approval of the vaccine for this age group.

One sticking point for some families who remain hesitant, the official said, is that the vaccines currently in use are administered under emergency use authorization and have not been given full approval by the FDA. Full approval, if it comes quickly after the emergency round, could alleviate that concern.

Covid-19 vaccines have only been authorized for people ages 12 and up in the U.S., and none has received full approval yet.

Both Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech launched trials of their Covid-19 vaccines for kids under 12 in March. Results are expected in the fall, and it will take FDA officials time to review the drug companies' applications.

The regulatory agency is asking for four to six months of safety follow-up data for kids under age 12, the FDA official said. Just two months of follow-up data was required for the clinical trials in adults.

That additional data could make the process of granting full approval easier. Six months of follow-up data is needed for what is known as a biologics license application, or BLA.

So far, only Pfizer-BioNTech has applied for full licensure of its vaccine for adults 18 and up. The FDA official said granting full approval for adults is the agency's highest priority.

Pfizer said in a statement to NBC News it anticipates results on its clinical trials in kids ages 5 to 11 sometime in September, and then could apply for emergency use authorization. "Data for kids 2 and under 5 could arrive soon after that," the company said, adding that results on kids ages 6 months up to 2 years may not be released until October or November.

Dr. Buddy Creech, one of the primary researchers for the Moderna KidCOVE clinical trials, which includes children as young as 6 months, predicted a rollout of pediatric data similar to Pfizer's.

"I can't imagine, except maybe for the 6- to 11-year-olds, that we're going to have too much data before the late fall," Creech, also a pediatric infectious disease expert and director of the Vanderbilt Vaccine Research Program at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, said.

Results on kids 5 years old and younger may take longer, he added. "There is still a lot of work left to be done."

A safe and effective vaccine for children is an important tool in stopping the spread of Covid-19, especially with the rapid rise of the more transmissible delta variant.

There is no indication that the variant is changing the virus to be more harmful to children. But its highly contagious nature means unvaccinated people, which includes all children under 12, are more vulnerable.

"Given that children are one of the groups that is unvaccinated, we will see more cases in children," said Dr. Richard Besser, a pediatrician and former acting director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "We will see more hospitalizations in children, and unfortunately we will see more deaths in children."

Besser, who is the current president of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, said he hopes the FDA will quickly move to full approval of the vaccines.

"Quite a number of people are saying that that will influence their decision to get vaccinated," he said.

Some pediatric infectious diseases doctors are not convinced full approval, rather than an EUA, would have much of an impact on vaccine hesitancy.

"In terms of how vaccines get approved, there isn't much of a functional difference" between emergency use authorization and full approval, said Dr. Sean O'Leary, vice chair of the Committee on Infectious Diseases for the American Academy of Pediatrics.

As of July 8, more than 4 million children had been diagnosed with Covid-19, representing 14.2 percent of all cases, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. At least 335 children, ages 17 and younger, have died from Covid-19, according to the latest data from the CDC.
When neighbors in Grain Valley woke up this morning, they witnessed several agencies searching the outside of a home on Buckner Tarsney Road in connection with a missing persons case out of Independence.
Several school districts are planning to head back to school in the fall with masks optional for students and staff. Meanwhile, local health officials are still working on guidelines for school with the growing threat of the delta variant.
JNC Media Group, on July 14, released the teaser poster for the new upcoming fantasy horror film "White Day." The film stars today's rising actors SF9's Kang Chanhee and Park Yu Na.

"White Day" is confirmed to premiere on September this year.

White Day Cast: SF9's Chani and Park Yu Na reunite

Fans and movie enthusiasts were filled with excitement as hot actors SF9's Kang Chani and Park Yu Na are to finally reunite on the big screen with a very strange and interesting genre.

"White Day: School of Demon Exorcism" (literal translation) tells a story of high school students struggling to save their friends from eerie and unknown evil spirits that cause horrific and supernatural phenomena in their school at night.

SF9's Chani to transform into an exorcist heir

Kang Chani is expected to play the role of Hee Min, a young heir of the greatest exorcist in South Korea. He is oblivious and he has not discovered his own powers yet.

Park Yu Na will star as So Young, a young, timid student who knows everything about the horrifying curse that haunts the entire school and decides to keep it a secret.

Many fans are expecting to see romance bloom as Hee Min (SF9's Chani) and So Young (Park Yuna) figure out how to save their friends and the haunted school from dark forces and supernatural phenomena.

SF9's Chani and Park Yu Na previously appeared together in the drama "SKY Castle" and web drama "True Beauty."

Veteran and well-sought actor Jang Kwang also landed a role in the film. The luminary is expected to add strength to the cast, thus gaining high expectations from the public.

Jang Kwang starred in several legendary dramas such as "A Korean Odyssey," "Love in the Moonlight," "Pinnochio," and Korea's award-winning "Along with the Gods."

White Day Film adapted from a video game

"White Day: School of Demon Exorcism" is based on the survival-horror video game called "White Day: A Labyrinth Called School," developed by Directors Lee Won Sool and Lee Gyu Ho of Sonnori in 2001.

Many fans expressed their excitement as the genre based on exorcism and unexplainable things have been much loved recently in South Korea starting from the films "The Black Priests," "Wonderful Rumors," and "Jackpot Real Estate."

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In the teaser poster released by JNC Media Group, Hee Min who is played by SF9's Chani, stares at oblivion with an indescribable expression and the entire school is enveloped by darkness, which gives off a spine-chilling and sinister vibes.

The Korean text in the teaser poster literally translates to "the barrier of evil spirits has broken and he has awakened," which stimulates the general public's excitement and curiosity about the film.

"White Day" will meet the eye of the public in September.

KDramastars owns this article.

Elijah Mully wrote this.
BLY, Ore. -- On Thursday, the Klamath County School District will host a free community lunch from noon to 1 p.m. with the help of the Antler Bar and Grill in Bly, whose site has opened for Bootleg Fire evacuees.

Roosters Steak and Chop House in Klamath Falls donated 41 tri-trips that will be used in sandwiches and served with sides and dessert. KCSD will transport food and supplies to the site by school bus.

In times of emergency, it is our responsibility to stop and provide support, said Candace Gracik, nutrition services director for KCSD. We value and appreciate our community and empathize with those who are impacted by this fire.

The district is also expanding its grab-and-go free meal program for those ages 1-18 during this crisis. Breakfasts and lunches can be picked up between noon and 1 p.m. on Thursdays near the Antler Bar and Grill while emergency evacuations are in place.

KCSD Superintendent Glen Szymoniak said the district has the staffing and infrastructure to reach into rural communities impacted by evacuations and fire. Chiloquin and Gearhart school campuses are currently being used as fire camps, hosting incident command and operation centers.

We have the ability to provide resources, such as food service and access to our school buildings and campuses, and we will continue to do what we can to help our communities, he said.
LAKEVIEW, Ore.  A national shortage of jet fuel impacted the Lake County Airport earlier this week as firefighting efforts on the Bootleg Fire ramped up along the county's western reaches.

Airport officials across the U.S. West have sounded the alarm about the jet fuel shortage and the potential that they will have to wave off firefighting aircraft during an already active fire season, the Associated Press reported earlier this week. Some tanker bases have already encountered sporadic shortages, pointing to supply chains that atrophied during the pandemic.

According to the Lake County Sheriff's Office, the airport ran out of Jet A fuel on July 11, the day after the Bootleg Fire's most alarming growth. The airport manager had placed an order for fuel nearly a week prior, but delivery was delayed.

"The Lake County commissioners and emergency manager were made aware of the issue early Monday morning. They immediately took action looking for Jet A fuel in order to prevent an impact to wildfire initial attack and air ambulance operations at the Lake County Airport," the Sheriff's Office said.

Lake County's emergency manager got in contact with Oregon state officials to source fuel from state and federal sources. Meanwhile, the commissioners contacted state Representative E. Werner Reschke and the federal Department of Energy in a parallel search for fuel. The County also declared a state of emergency to speed to the process and open up avenues for firefighting resources.

"The team made countless phone calls and sent emails to regional suppliers, airports and many other sources trying to fill the immediate order," the Sheriff's Office said.

On Wednesday, Ocean Air in Klamath Falls delivered 3,500 gallons of Jet A fuel to Lake County, and officials said that the usual supplier Phillips 66 would bring 8,500 gallons more by Friday.

"Lake County is not anticipating any further supply chain shortages," the Sheriff's Office concluded.
YREKA, Calif.  The Siskiyou County Sheriff's Office has identified a man shot and killed by officers during evacuations of the Mount Shasta Vista Subdivision while the Lava Fire raged at the end of June.

On Wednesday evening, the Sheriff's Office said that it had positively identified the man as 35-year-old Soobleej Kaub Hawj of Kansas City, Kansas. His family has been notified of his death, the agency said.

According to the original statement released by the Sheriff's Office during the week of the shooting, Hawj was leaving the subdivision in a GMC pickup on the evening of June 28. Hawj reportedly tried to turn south onto County Road A-12, further into the evacuation zone, when law enforcement officers from multiple agencies attempted to halt him.

During that interaction, the Sheriff's Office said that Hawj raised a handgun and "may have fired several rounds" before multiple officers opened fire, killing him.

Wednesday's statement marks the first release of additional information on the case since the shooting.

RELATED: Lava Fire evacuation order inflames tensions around Mount Shasta Vista Subdivision

"Officer Involved Shootings are complex investigations that take time to thoroughly investigate," the Sheriff's Office said. "There are certain details surrounding this incident that have not been made public as the investigation is ongoing; however, in the future, once the investigation is completed, a thorough report of the incident will be made public. We ask for your patience and understanding as this investigation is being completed."

All of the officers involved have been placed on paid administrative leave while the Critical Incident Team, led by the Siskiyou County District Attorney's Office, conducts an investigation.

The proliferation of illegal marijuana grows in the Mount Shasta Vista area has resulted in increasing tension between Siskiyou County's Hmong community and county officials, with the latter pursuing a campaign to crack down on water shipments into the area. The mandatory Lava Fire evacuations, deadly shooting, and a series of arrests within the subdivision of people who entered or refused to leave did little to ameliorate the existing conflict.

On July 6, members of the Hmong community rallied outside of the Siskiyou County courthouse to protest the continued water restrictions and call for justice in the shooting. One man said that he would go on a hunger strike in front of the courthouse until conditions change.
MEDFORD, Ore. -- Despite a rise of COVID-19 cases and hospitilzations in Oregon, deaths have declined over the previous week, according to the Oregon Health Authority.

The OHA reported 1,318 new daily cases of COVID-19 during the week of Monday, July 5, through Sunday, July 11  an 11 percent rise from the week prior. New COVID-19 related hospitalizations rose to 104, up from 66 the previous week.

Governor Kate Brown lifted the vast majority of Oregon's COVID-19 restrictions on June 30, just a few days before the state hit its intended vaccination rate target of 70 percent. Despite that milestone, the rate of daily vaccinations has been dropping gradually for months, and vaccination rates remain exceedingly low in many areas of the state.

New cases of coronavirus have been rising gradually in Oregon since the beginning of July. On Tuesday and Wednesday of this week, Jackson County had the highest daily case counts of any county in the state.

Though cases and hospitalizations have been rising, the OHA reported 15 COVID-19 related deaths last week, down from 19 reported the week prior.

People 70 years of age and older have accounted for 38% of COVID-19 related hospitalizations and 74% of COVID-19 related deaths.

According to OHA's COVID-19 Weekly Outbreak Report, there are currently 21 active COVID-19 outbreaks in senior living communities, with three or more confirmed cases and one or more COVID-19 related deaths.
BEATTY, Ore. 

UPDATE: With critical fire weather again creating extreme activity on the Bootleg Fire, authorities have expanded evacuation zones on the Lake County side of the fire, particularly on the northern flank of the fire near Summer Lake. Zones are also increasing near the Gearhart Wilderness and the town of Paisley.

According to the latest from fire officials, the Bootleg Fire has destroyed 11 homes and 35 other buildings based on initial damage assessments. Another three homes and one outbuilding structure have been damaged.

These new zones are effective immediately:

Level 3 (Go Now)

County line on Hwy 140 east to Quartz Mt, following the FS RD 3660 to Corral Crk, north to FS Rd 34, to Deadhorse and Campbell Lakes, Bald Butte to the north of Winter Rim, to Picture Rock Pass, east over Hager Mt, county line at Coffee Pot Spring.

Level 2 (Get Set)

From county line near Mitchell Monument south to Hwy 140, running along Hwy 140 east to Quartz Mountain and northeast to Dairy Creek CG, then north to Government Harvey Junction, north on FS 29 Rd to Hwy 31 again encompassing the west shore of Summer Lake and stopping 2 miles short of ODFW headquarters on Hwy 31, then west across Thompson Reservoir to the County line.

Level 1 (Be Ready)

West of Hwy 140.

Evacuation shelters are located at the following locations: Klamath County Fairgrounds, La Pine Middle School, and a shelter will be available later tonight at the Daly Middle School Auditorium, 220 South H Street.

With evacuations changing rapidly over the day, fire officials recommend that area residents consult the interactive evacuation map here.

INITIAL REPORT: The Bootleg Fire made a dramatic show of its inexorable push to the east on Wednesday as fire crews struggled to slow its advance, with pyrocumulus clouds towering over the eastern side of the fire area. The fire was estimated at 227,234 acres with 7 percent containment as of Thursday morning.

Firefighters reported more extreme fire behavior throughout Wednesday, with the fire torching trees, making wind-driven runs, and sparking spot fires ahead of the main fire. Officials said that this included growth into the Gearhart Wilderness and north toward Lake Henry.

Meanwhile, another fire on the Bootleg's northeastern flank continued to grow. The Log Fire, located about 8 miles southwest of Summer Lake, also spread to the east amid steady winds. It was estimated at 4,830 acres on Thursday morning.

As Red Flag conditions settled over the fire area throughout Wednesday evening, fire officials reported a pyrocumulonimbus cloud with "broad rotation" amid a smoke column along the eastern fire line. The dry conditions and erratic winds were expected to cause extreme behavior into the night.

This fire is going to continue to grow  the extremely dry vegetation and weather are not in our favor, said Joe Hessel, Incident Commander for ODF Team 1 Incident Management Team. We are going to continue to prepare lines, protect structures, and move resources as we can around the fires edge.

Crews continued their work to secure the Fuego Mountain area, where the fire began last week, as well as areas on the southeastern edge of the fire along 34 Road. Officials said that firefighters are working to hold the fire at the 34 road to prevent Bootleg from moving further to the south and east.

"Heavy beetle killed timber and active fire behavior will present challenges in keeping the fire north and west of this road. Crews will continue to work on strengthening their existing line as well as scout for potential contingency lines. Structure protection groups are in place along the fire to help reduce risk to area homes," the incident management team said.

Evacuation zones continue to spread into north and east into Lake County due to the fire's growth, but Thursday's update did not highlight the specific areas that were added over the last 24 hours. Officials said that an interactive map of evacuations is the best way to keep apprised of them due to the rapidly changing nature of the fire.

Officials from the U.S. Forest Service have also expanded closures in the Fremont-Winema National Forest to ensure that people stay away from threatened recreation areas.

The Bootleg Fire has moved rapidly through Klamath and Lake counties, with extreme fire behavior driven by hot weather, winds and exceptionally dry fuels since it was discovered last Tuesday, said Fremont-Winema National Forest Supervisor Barry Imler. For public and firefighter safety, it is essential that we expand the closure area while firefighters, the Incident Management Team and area fire managers work together to contain and control the fire.

Incident commanders decided Monday to split the firefight into two zones to the north and south. The Oregon Department of Forestry's Incident Management Team 1 took control of the fire's southern zone. Pacific Northwest Team 10 remains in command of the northern zone, while a team from the Oregon State Fire Marshal's office will continue to focus on protecting homes and structures, with almost 2,000 considered threatened.
A police vehicle sits near the front gate to the Mont Cascades water park in Cantley, Que. on Wednesday, July 14, 2021. A police operation is underway at Mont Cascades, a water park in western Quebec, after someone allegedly pointed what appeared to be a gun at an employee. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld
Default judgment

On Wednesday, Walworth County Deputy District Attorney James Sempf, acting as special prosecutor for the cases, asked for a default judgement against Blake when Blake did not appear for the hearing. Court Commissioner Donald Mayew granted that request and issued the prosecutors suggested $150 fine.

I look at all three files, and I could have charged it criminally, I could have done nothing, or I could have issued citations, Sempf said.

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He said he made the decision to issue citations to Barker and Cardinali because they had no history of criminal violations. He said he spent additional time looking at Blakes file, however, but said any violations in his past were extremely minor.

I felt these three guys should be treated the same, and so thats why I made the decision I did, Sempf said.

Barker and Cardinali each received a $150 fine in June, also in default judgements issued when they missed their court appearances.

Sempf said for ordinance violations, a default judgement issued if the person does not appear in court, a process much like that for traffic tickets. Blake will have 30 days to pay the fine.

Thought issue was finished
This is my third music festival this summer, Hulscher said. I really wanted to see Eric Church (the headliner Friday), so we made the drive up yesterday.

Wilson said hes looking forward to Blake Shelton on Sunday.

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Im a big fan of his, Wilson said.

Family tradition

Country Thunder is a mother/daughter tradition for Barb Cimmarusti and her daughter Jordan Cimmarusti, who prefer to stay in Glamping tent area.

Its usually just the two of us, and were not really campers, Barb said, adding she likes the location, safety and convenience the Glamping experience provides. You dont really have to bring anything.

Jordan, a student at Carthage College, said the last year has been difficult for so many people and that virtual music has helped people through. Still, she said, there is nothing like a live concert.

I was so upset last year when they cancelled it, Jordan, who will be a senior this fall, said. This is the one big thing I do in the summer. Im usually taking summer classes.
News

Oak Grove shooting suspect sentenced on drug charges, assault charges set for trial

Irean Coleman Adrian Murray

The Oak Grove man accused of being involved in an Oak Grove shooting of a woman on Meridians Way in 2018 appeared in Christian Circuit Court Judge John Atkins courtroom Wednesday morning to be sentenced on his drug-related charges while his assault charge is still scheduled to be tried by jury.

Adrian L. Murray, 22, is accused of shooting Keosha Willis on Meridians Way in Oak Grove in 2018 and was charged with first-degree assault, first-degree trafficking in cocaine, trafficking in marijuana, first-degree fleeing or evading police, two counts of first-degree wanton endangerment and second-degree fleeing or evading police.

Murray recently entered a guilty plea deal to eight years in prison on all counts excluding the assault charge.

Murray appeared in person Wednesday with his attorney Michael Thompson, who called witnesses to testify on the defenses behalf on why the court should grant Murray probation on all charges excluding first-degree assault.

Thompson first called Murrays wife who testified in court that Murray has been working well with his probation officer, has stayed out of trouble and has two possible jobs lined up, should he be granted probation.

She also testified that if Murray were to be sentenced to time in prison, their family would face hardship.

Christian County Assistant Commonwealths Attorney Stephanie Bolen argued, however, that the family would not face financial hardship as Murray has not had any jobs in the past and has been supported by his grandfather, which Murrays wife confirmed to Bolen.

Murray then testified in court, stating that he has already served two years in jail on this case, that he has stayed out of trouble while he has been released from jail and took the opportunity to apologize to the court.

I just want to say that I apologize for the actions that occurred and I am asking for the opportunity to show that I am eligible to get a job and actually do better in life, Murray said to Atkins.

I also ask for mercy from the court and see if I can see my little girl for her birthday next week.

Murray also advised the court that he has been employed in the past, having previously worked at McDonalds, had a business selling dogs and ran a lawn care service.

Bolen told the court that Murrays pre-sentence investigation report contradicts Murrays statements regarding his past work, causing the two of them to begin arguing in court before Atkins quelled the argument.

Following Murrays testimony, Thompson requested that Atkins consider the time he has already served in incarceration and stated that Murray is already parole eligible on his drug-related charges.

Thompson added that Murray has not had any issues while out of custody on ankle monitor and requested that the judge grant him probation.

Bolen argued that Murray was found to have 31.4 grams of cocaine on his person as well as 204 grams of marijuana when he was apprehended. She also reiterated that hes never had a job and relies on his grandfather for money, food and housing and requested that probation be denied.

Atkins ultimately denied probation and sentenced Murray to eight years in prison. Murray was remanded to the custody of the Christian County Jail until his jury trial on the assault charge.

Woman accused of child neglect granted probation

In other court news, Irean Coleman, 37, who is accused of neglecting her children and leaving them in dirty, subpar living conditions, was sentenced in her case Wednesday afternoon before Christian Circuit Judge Andrew Self.

Coleman was originally charged with four counts of first-degree criminal abuse of a child 12 years of age or under, four counts of abandonment of a minor, four counts of first-degree wanton endangerment, one count of trafficking in synthetic drugs and four counts of endangering the welfare of a minor.

Coleman previously entered a guilty plea to all of those charges, except her child abuse charges were amended down to second-degree criminal abuse rather than first-degree. The deal carried a recommended sentence of two years in prison.

Coleman appeared in person with her defense attorneys Rick Sanborn and Monroe Graham, who requested that Coleman be granted probation in her case.

Sanborn shared that Coleman has been compliant with probation while out of custody on an ankle monitor, has completed parenting classes and has been granted an increased number of visits with her children since the case began.

Bolen, who was also prosecuting Colemans case, shared with the court that the commonwealth suggested that Coleman be granted probation in the case.

Ms. Coleman has made a lot of steps forward since shes been released from jail, Bolen said. Not only has she completed parenting classes, shes been drug tested and theres been zero positive tests for her  this is not the Ms. Coleman that was arraigned, so we would recommend probation for her.

Self then agreed to both requests and granted Coleman probation in the case. However, Self shared that she had a warrant for failure to pay child support and that she would be remanded to the custody of the Christian County Jail.

Theres nothing I can do about this Ms. Coleman, its going to have to be addressed by Judge (Jason) Fleming, Self said to Coleman as she broke into tears.

Take a couple deep breaths and just relax a minute. Today overall is a good day for you, because youre not going to go to jail or to prison on this charge. Ms. Bolen on the behalf of the commonwealth has acknowledged and recognized that youve been doing what youre supposed to be doing as far as this case is concerned and so thats going to allow me to place you on probation.

According to New Era archives, officers were called to Colemans residence for a welfare check on Oct. 13, 2020.

Dispatchers reportedly told officers that they had received a call regarding a mother abandoning her children alone to take drugs, leaving her 6-year-old daughter to watch her 4-year-old, 2-year-old and 7-month-old siblings.

Dispatch stated to police that the 6-year-old came outside to the caller and told them that the baby would not stop crying and that she needed help.

Upon officers arrival at the home, they met with Robert Matlock, the uncle of the children, who told police that this kind of incident has happened before with Coleman and that he and his wife currently have custody of Colemans 11-year-old child.

Officers entered the home and allegedly observed roaches and other bugs on the floor, empty food containers and wrappers on the floor, minimal furniture throughout the house and overall dirty, sub par living conditions.

Colemans 6-year-old advised police that her mother had left in the morning with a black bag and had not returned all day. She added that she had a little bit of food to eat in the morning but had not eaten since.

Other family members arrived at the scene and began to change the diapers of all the children, revealing that all four of them had dirty diapers, diaper rash and none of them appeared to have bathed recently.

While family members were inside of the home tending to the children and changing their diapers, they allegedly discovered a backpack inside of a crib containing a meth pipe. They also reportedly found a gallon-sized ziplock baggie containing spice (synthetic drugs) in a corner.

While officers were taking pictures of the locations of the drugs, the children in the house had stepped on the baggie of meth before it had been moved, reportedly placing the children in danger of their lives.

All of the drugs in the home were allegedly within easy access to the children, putting them in danger of accidentally ingesting them

Also in other court news, the two men charged in connection to the drug overdose of a Crofton woman were arraigned in Selfs court Wednesday afternoon.

Joshua Long, 20, and Seth Henderson, 19, both appeared in Selfs court via Zoom and were appointed attorneys from the Department of Public Advocacy. DPA attorney Olivia Adams stood in for both men for their arraignments prior to them being appointed specific lawyers.

Adams entered a not guilty plea on their behalf and waived formal reading of their indictments.

Long shared with the court that he intended to hire a private defense attorney, but had not had the opportunity to do so. Henderson requested that he be represented by the DPA.

Self then scheduled the pair for their first pretrial conference on Aug. 4.

Long and Henderson are both charged with second-degree manslaughter for their involvement in a drug overdose death.

According to archives, the Christian County Sheriffs Office served the two indictment warrants for their association with the death of Corbin Bowling, 23, Crofton, who died from a drug overdose in January from narcotics she allegedly purchased from Long and Henderson.
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Ketchikan, AK (99901)

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The most chilling implication from new reports that America's top military officer feared Donald Trump would try to order the armed forces to stage a coup is not how close the nation came to a post-election disaster last year.

It's the extreme danger that the US system of government, Constitution and cherished freedoms would face if an ex-President even now trying to revive his demagogic political career ever gets anywhere near the Oval Office again.

In the latest staggering glimpse into Trump's crazed, final days in office from a flurry of new books, it emerged Wednesday that the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Mark Milley was so shaken by Trump's refusal to concede defeat that he feared he might attempt a coup or other illegal gambit to stay in power.

Milley saw himself and the armed forces as a bulwark against any presidential mutiny against the Constitution and the nearly two-and-a-half centuries of democratic transfers of power.

"They may try, but they're not going to f**king succeed," Milley told his deputies, according to excerpts of the book "I Alone Can Fix It" by Washington Post reporters Carol Leonnig and Philip Rucker, which was obtained by CNN ahead of its release next Tuesday.

Milley saw Trump as the "classic authoritarian leader with nothing to lose," the authors wrote, but he told subordinates: "You can't do this without the military. You can't do this without the CIA and the FBI. We're the guys with the guns."

In the end, Trump did not seek to turn the military on the American people or stage the most alarming showdown in living memory between a modern commander-in-chief and top military brass. But that seasoned military officers thought it was a real possibility and hatched a plan for rolling resignations to thwart Trump's autocratic impulses underscores the ex-President's extraordinary instability. Their preparations raised the specter that the uniformed military was ready to act to protect democracy and the rule of law from a civilian commander-in-chief in a reversal of normal Constitutional order -- furthering an impression repeatedly left by Trump himself that he was unfit to ever be President.

There can be little doubt that if he is ever again in a position of supreme power, the twice-impeached former President would be similarly erratic and lawless as he was in office. His behavior since returning to private life proves it.

New details of his past malfeasance come as Trump and his supporters actively seek to whitewash the truth of the insurrection that he incited against the US Capitol as Congress was certifying President Joe Biden's victory on January 6. The former President still has most of the Washington Republican Party -- which acted to excuse his assault on democracy -- in thrall to his personality cult. Millions of his voters believe his lies about non-existent voter fraud spread by propagandistic right-wing media networks.

Trump is, meanwhile, moving to tighten his grip over national elections by effectively installing acolytes in positions of power in state GOP parties as local Republican legislators pass laws making it harder for Democrats to vote that also weaken non-partisan control of elections, which could make them easier to steal in the future.

The new account also raises even more questions about senior Republican leaders' attitude toward Trump. Given the close links between Capitol Hill and the top echelons of the military, it is impossible to believe that Milley's testimony in the book will come as a surprise to congressional leaders or that they did not understand his fears in real time. Even if they didn't know, the fact that the GOP is still protecting, elevating and preparing to follow Trump into the 2022 midterm elections suggests even greater complicity with his offenses against democracy.

If the 2024 GOP nominating contest were taking place now, Trump would be the favorite, and he is giving every sign that he may indeed run for the White House again, meaning the idea of a return to power is not out of the question -- even if new evidence of a despotic temperament might harm his chances in a national election.

His grip on the Republican Party was underlined, again, with the news Thursday that House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy will meet with the former President in New Jersey.

The inevitable Trump defense

The authors interviewed Trump for more than two hours. But his allies are sure to accuse them and the media of lying about his record, and officers like Milley of grandstanding, polishing their place in history and bearing grudges against the former commander-in-chief.

The detail in the book leaves a strong impression that Milley cooperated with the authors. But it doesn't follow that he is just seeking to burnish his own legend. Such accounts are often a way of making clear exactly what happened -- with a thin veneer of deniability for non-partisan military officers. And the armed forces remain one of the few institutions in American life to retain broad public respect.

Milley will not publicly address the issues raised in the book, a defense official close to him told CNN. But the official didn't dispute that during the last weeks and months of the Trump administration, Milley went to extraordinary lengths to protect the country.

"He's not going to sit in silence while people try to use the military against Americans," the official said.

Furthermore, Trump's behavior as depicted here is familiar from other new accounts of how a defeated President lashed out like a toppling dictator late last year. In those books, which back up contemporary reporting, including by CNN, Trump comes across as delusional, self-pitying, desperate, angry and vindictive, seeking to save his political skin while ignoring the democratic will of voters, all while negligently refusing to deal with the real emergency -- the murderous and worsening coronavirus pandemic that would claim its 400,000th victim before he left office in January.

The books and media accounts are sketching the kind of historical record that Trump's pliant Republican allies on Capitol Hill sought to prevent by killing off a bipartisan plan for an independent commission into the January 6 insurrection.

The new accounts add to a staggering anecdotal, journalistic, legal and political narrative -- augmented by Trump's own public inflammatory remarks and actions -- of the most aberrant and dangerous presidency of modern times and maybe ever.

Still, if there is one reassuring aspect of the latest account, it is that the military was well aware of the potential danger posed by Trump and the compliant political aides he installed in the White House after systematically driving out professional civil servants, diplomats and former military and intelligence officers -- the so-called adults who, early on, tried to contain his wild instincts. And as well as the military, other institutions -- including the courts and even the Justice Department under an Attorney General William Barr, who often did Trump's political bidding -- stood firm against his attempts to steal the election. Their example casts a poor light on the democratically-elected Republican lawmakers who refused to do their duty to hold another branch of government to account and to protect the Constitution.

The plan of the Joint Chiefs

The most surprising revelation from Leonnig and Rucker, who cite friends, lawmakers and colleagues of Milley, was that the Joint Chiefs discussed a plan to resign, one-by-one, rather than carry out orders from Trump that they considered to be illegal, dangerous or ill-advised.

Such a sequence would have precipitated the most serious civil-military crisis and chain-of-command disruption in decades, a fact that underscores how seriously the top brass took the possibility of a revolutionary moment.

Milley was concerned that personnel moves that put Trump acolytes in positions of power at the Pentagon and raised alarm in Washington at the time, including the firing of Defense Secretary Mark Esper, were sinister omens.

"Milley told his staff that he believed Trump was stoking unrest, possibly in hopes of an excuse to invoke the Insurrection Act and call out the military," Leonnig and Rucker reported.

Rucker and Leonnig interviewed more than 140 sources for the book, though most were given anonymity to speak candidly. Milley is quoted extensively and comes off in a positive light as someone who tried to keep democracy alive after receiving a warning from an old friend who is not named.

"What they are trying to do here is overturn the government," the friend said, according to the authors. "This is all real, man. You are one of the few guys who are standing between us and some really bad stuff."

Milley apologized after being seen as too close to Trump in June 2020, when, wearing military fatigues, he joined the President in a controversial photo-op after protesters were cleared from the square outside the White House.

But according to the new book, he feared that the President would try to fire FBI Director Christopher Wray and CIA Director Gina Haspel in order to solidify his control over the intelligence services.

Such a scenario was widely feared late last year. Though it did not happen, Trump did have past form in this area, having fired former FBI Director James Comey, before going on television to say he did it because of the Russia investigation.

In retrospect, the period following the election -- one of the most harrowing in the modern history of the United States given Trump's trashing of democracy and the sacking of the US Capitol by his supporters -- was even more terrifying behind the scenes.

But events since have shown that the danger did not pass when Trump left the White House on the morning of January 20. In fact, a new threat is rising given the still vast political influence of a modern American demagogue.

The-CNN-Wire

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Bob Baffert, the Hall of Fame horse trainer suspended from participating in multiple events following a winning horse's positive drug test, has been granted a reprieve in court.

A federal judge in Brooklyn ruled Wednesday that the New York Racing Association (NYRA) cannot enforce its ban on Baffert while Baffert's suit against the association is ongoing.

Baffert is the trainer of Medina Spirit, the horse that tested positive for a banned anti-inflammatory drug called betamethasone following its Kentucky Derby win in May. Baffert was subsequently banned from fielding any horses at the Churchill Downs racetrack for two years following the confirmation of the positive test.

Betamethasone is an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid that is allowed in horse racing at a certain level. But Baffert said he was informed that Medina Spirit's postrace test detected 21 picograms per milliliter -- more than double the legal threshold in Kentucky racing.

The NYRA banned Baffert in May before the Belmont Stakes, the third race in thoroughbred racing's so-called Triple Crown. The NYRA called the suspension temporary but offered no end date.

In her decision Wednesday, Judge Carol Bagley Amon said the NYRA -- which runs all equine racetracks in the state -- violated Baffert's right to due process in banning him from New York horse racing with no opportunity for a hearing.

"Due process required that Baffert, having an undisputed property interest in his licensed right to race horses in New York, was entitled to a pre-suspension hearing," Amon wrote, adding that even if the association could prove it necessary to suspend a trainer before a pre-suspension hearing could take place, the law required a "prompt" post-suspension hearing.

"But NYRA has held no hearing -- let alone a prompt one," she wrote.

"And although NYRA characterizes the suspension as 'temporary,' a better description of it would be 'indefinite,'" Amon added. "With so much on the line, Baffert was entitled to (at least) a 'prompt' post-deprivation hearing which should have already occurred."

In a statement issued following the ruling, NYRA defended its decision to suspend Baffert.

"On May 17, 2021, at a time of crisis for the sport, the New York Racing Association, Inc. took emergency action to temporarily suspend Bob Baffert from racing or training at Belmont Park, Aqueduct Racetrack and Saratoga Race Course," the statement read.

"This measure was taken to protect the integrity of thoroughbred racing. NYRA will continue to honor that commitment so that fans, the betting public and racing participants can be confident in a level playing field.

"NYRA is reviewing the court's decision today to determine our legal options and next steps," the statement continued. "What is clear, however, is that Mr. Baffert's actions and behavior can either elevate or damage the sport. We expect Mr. Baffert to exert appropriate controls over his operation."

Baffert, who had won his record seventh Derby with Medina Spirit's victory, issued a statement after the Kentucky Derby's result was put in doubt.

"Following the Santa Anita Derby, Medina Spirit developed dermatitis on his hind end. I had him checked out by my veterinarian who recommended the use of an anti-fungal ointment called Otomax. The veterinary recommendation was to apply this ointment daily to give the horse relief, help heal the dermatitis and prevent it from spreading," part of Baffert's statement said.

"While we do not know definitively that this was the source of the alleged 21 picograms found in Medina Spirit's post-race blood sample, and our investigation is continuing, I have been told by equine pharmacology experts that this could explain the test results. As such, I wanted to be forthright about this fact as soon as I learned of this information," the statement added.

The-CNN-Wire

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Millennials and Gen Zers in the United States may not think the "laughing" emoji  is cool anymore, but a majority of emoji users around the world disagree, according to a new study.

The "laugh out loud" face is officially the world's most popular emoji, according to researchers from Adobe who surveyed 7,000 users across the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Japan, Australia, and South Korea.

The "thumbs up"  emoji came in second, followed by the "red heart"  emoji. The flirtatious "wink and kiss" and "sad face with a tear"  emojis respectively rounded out the top five.

The software maker on Thursday released the findings from its 2021 Global Emoji Trend Report ahead of World Emoji Day on Saturday.

Of course, TikTok users have had it out over the "laugh out loud"  emoji, which Gen Zers argued is cliche and uncool.

"I use everything but the laughing emoji," 21-year-old Walid Mohammed told CNN Business earlier this year. "I stopped using it a while back because I saw older people using it, like my mom, my older siblings and just older people in general."

Adobe's latest Emoji Trend report also examined the three most misunderstood emojis in the world. The "eggplant"  symbol edged out the "peach"  and the "clown"  emojis respectively as the most confusing for users.

The vast majority of emoji users (90%) believe the modern-day hieroglyphs make it easier for them to express themselves. Eighty-nine percent of respondents said emojis simplify communicating across language barriers. And 67% said they think people who use emojis are friendlier, funnier and cooler than those who don't.

A slight majority of respondents said they are more comfortable expressing emotions through emojis than talking on the phone or in-person. More than half of global emoji users (55%) said using emojis in communications has positively impacted their mental health.

Seventy-six percent of those surveyed said emojis are an important communication tool for creating unity, respect and understanding. And 88% said they feel more empathetic toward people who use emojis.

"I am encouraged by this particular statistic," Adobe typeface designer and font developer Paul D. Hunt wrote in a blog post about the study. "Emoji sometimes get criticized for being overly saccharine, but this sweetness is key when it comes to diffusing some of the heaviness of online communication."

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Teenagers who have close, secure relationships with their families are more likely to extend empathy to their peers, according to a new study.

More specifically, when teens feel safe, supported by and connected to parents or other adult caregivers, they are better equipped to pass the empathy they receive on to others.

"I don't think teens in particular like being told what to do, and I don't think it's going to work to tell teens they should empathize with other people," said Jessica Stern, lead author of the study and a postdoctoral fellow in the department of psychology at the University of Virginia. "But what does work is showing them empathy, and they can pay it forward to the people in their lives."

Stern's work revolves around how having secure relationships contributes to prosocial behavior, or behavior driven by the intent to benefit others.

She studies parent-child relationships, also known as attachment theory, which is "the idea that all human beings have a fundamental need for connection, but we kind of vary in the ways that we make those connections," she said. "Those differences in the quality of our relationships kind of shape who we become over time."

Teens who are more empathic show lower levels of aggression and prejudice and are less likely to bully, Stern added, and this is why understanding how relationships shape empathy is important.

The study, conducted at the University of Virginia's Adolescent Research Group, followed 174 adolescents from the ages of 14 to 18 to track their progress annually. At age 14, researchers interviewed the teens regarding their family relationships using a modified version of the Adult Attachment Interview, which is considered the "gold standard" of assessing one's attachment state of mind, according to the study.

Stern said this prompted the teens to share descriptions and stories about their families. Researchers paid attention not only to what the teens said, but also how they articulated it.

"Some of those stories have a lot of pain, some of them have a lot of real beauty and closeness, but we're really looking for how teens tell their stories," Stern said. "So, can teens talk about their close relationships in a way that's calm and clear? Can they take a situation that's maybe difficult and make sense out of it?"

After these initial interviews, researchers went back to the participants at ages 16, 17 and 18 and observed their interactions with a close friend. The researchers noted how the participants responded when their friend presented a problem and confided in them, assessing the participants' extension of empathy.

Teens who had more secure family relationships showed higher empathy toward their friends at ages 16 and 17 than less secure teens. It's not all bad news, though, because the less secure teens "caught up" in their empathic behavior by age 18, to Stern's surprise.

This is cause for hope, she said, because it may indicate that those empathic skills can develop over time for adolescents who don't have great relationships at home. Stern suggested that having strong friendships or a trusted teacher might make an impact on insecure teens' empathy, but she said further research should be done to learn more.

The results are consistent with considerable past research connecting positive relationships with the development of empathy in adolescence, said Mary Buckingham, a research assistant professor in the Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development at Tufts University. She was not involved in the study.

"Relationships with important adults matter for empathy development," Buckingham said. "The results suggest that, in order to raise an empathic adolescent, parents need to model and encourage empathy."

She said that, as stated in the study, the research shows a correlation between secure relationships and empathy, but it should not be interpreted as a causal relationship at this time. Additional research must examine not only the quality of the attachment relationship between a parent and child, but also the potential impacts of socialization and other aspects of parenting, Buckingham added.

Since the research focused on averages across the study sample, she also said an examination of individual differences between participants is necessary.

"The article does not illuminate the individual differences that might exist within adolescents, and the specificity of each adolescent's development that might be occurring," Buckingham said. "Future research should examine what specific experiences, for what youth, in what broader contexts, at what points in the life span, may lead to attachment and empathy links."

More research is already being conducted on this particular group of participants, who are now in their mid 30s, Stern said. Led by Joseph Allen, professor of psychology and head of the Adolescent Research Group at the University of Virginia, the researchers are interested in seeing how the empathic abilities they examined in the teens now shape their romantic relationships and parenting behavior as adults.

"It's important to be able to sort of see from other people's perspectives and to understand what others are feeling for a variety of other things that we consider success in the world," Stern said.

For parents and even teachers, Stern advises understanding the necessity of empathy and really investing in relationships with teens. Providing models of empathic behavior, including treating others with kindness, respect and support, can help adolescents internalize that behavior, whether they are conscious of this or not.

Adults should also encourage teens to invest in their relationships with their friends, which the study found helps build empathy as a skill as well, Stern said. However, she added, whom teenagers decide to befriend does matter.

"We all have different types of families and we can't choose our family, but we can choose our friends," Stern said. "Choose your friends wisely and choose the people who make you feel secure, supported and connected and who have your back, and do that for them, too, because it actually really matters."

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Nearly 20 years ago, a batch of hand-canned beers started a seismic shift in the craft beer industry. Now the man behind that endeavor is turning his attention to hand-cultivated cannabis.

Dale Katechis, whose eponymous and popular Dale's Pale Ale revolutionized canned beers, has invested in and taken an active leadership role at Veritas Fine Cannabis, a boutique wholesaler specializing in cultivating and selling premium cannabis.

The company declined to share details about the investment.

"When I got a peek inside of Veritas, around every corner, it just whacked me in the head: It reminded me of the early days of Oskar Blues," Katechis said, noting the Colorado-based brewery he started, first as a restaurant and later as a beer-brewing operation, in 1997.

Katechis' move signals a further intermingling of beer and cannabis. The two sectors have drawn frequent comparisons to each other for their grassroots growth, consumer base, competitive pressures and heavily regulated nature.

The biggest names in the alcohol business have staked claims in the global cannabis industry, establishing a foundation for further US expansion (especially once cannabis is no longer federally illegal) in part to diversify business, prop up sales, and stave off a potential competitor.

Veritas, a cannabis brand that has long embraced hand cultivation and harvesting, hopes to tap into Katechis' experience of creating high-quality products and expanding operations without losing sight of the craft and culture that got the company off the ground.

"In cannabis there has been a race to the bottom, a race to the finish line, a race to get in before big corporations take over," said Mike Leibowitz, chief executive officer of Veritas. "I feel like our brand has really set itself down a different path."

Katechis echoes this emphasis on quality and the role it played in the success and staying power of Dale's Pale Ale, which launched commercially in 2002.

Oskar Blues carved its niche by packaging Dale's Pale Ale in a vehicle long-tied to the multinational beer Goliaths but not yet to craft brewers: the 12-ounce aluminum can.

By slinging a "voluminously hopped" craft brew into a can, the then-unique effort put Oskar Blues on the map and and launched a trend that's still going strong nearly two decades later.

As craft beer surged in the mid-aughts and 2010s, chipping away at Big Beer's market share, the Budweisers, Heinekens and Molsons of the world started snapping up regional breweries. Rather than selling to a alcohol giant, Katechis grew Oskar Blues into one of the larger craft brewers in the nation, landing venture capital funding and merging with other craft brewers. The venture-backed "disruptive brewers collective" now known as Canarchy is the eighth-largest craft brewery in the US, has eight brands, and sells its beer internationally.

After stepping away from the day-to-day of the brewery business, Katechis sniffed around the cannabis space for a couple of years searching for the right investment. Katechis, a "fan of the space," was intrigued by the parallels with the craft beer business. In addition to touting flavors and aromas similar to cannabis strains, Oskar Blues' beers were branded with plenty of not-so-subtle nods to weed.

"If for nothing else, I want them to grow the way they want to grow, but I might be able to raise my hand and offer some input on all the mistakes we made and keep Veritas from making the same ones," Katechis said.

Katechis joins a line of other craft beer executives who have entered the cannabis industry.

The interest in working in cannabis has increased amongst people from a broad slate of industries and has grown exponentially in the past 12 months, said Karson Humiston, founder and chief executive officer of Vangst, which runs a recruitment site for cannabis jobs.

"During the pandemic, cannabis went from illegitimate and illegal to essential in many places," she said. "That was the tipping point moment for a lot of executives to take a look at the space."

Cultivation businesses are attracting talent from traditional agriculture; retail operations are pulling from businesses such as apparel; services firms are tapping into the tech world, said Karan Wadhera, managing partner of Casa Verde Capital, an investment fund co-founded by Snoop Dogg.

"It's more or less a foregone conclusion that cannabis is on a path to full-scale legalization," Wadhera said, making a nod to the latest federal efforts, including Senator Chuck Schumer's draft legislation to decriminalize marijuana.

So instead of trying to resist the turning tide, investors and executives "want to have a horse in the race."

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A version of this story appeared in CNN's Race Deconstructed newsletter. To get it in your inbox every week, sign up for free here.

The months-long tenure struggle between the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Nikole Hannah-Jones was never about debates over the 1619 Project.

The fight was about power -- about the White conservatives who thought that the Pulitzer Prize-winning Black journalist had gained too much of it.

"I have studied power my entire life from within institutions where I wielded none. I have written about it. I have reported on it. I have read about it. I have observed it. And, over the years, I have worked myself to accrue it, which is really what angers so many people," Hannah-Jones herself noted on Twitter.

She had barged into the overwhelmingly White world of academia, unsettling it. And for that, she was punished.

UNC eventually granted tenure to Hannah-Jones, who, notably and defiantly, declined the position and opted to join Howard University, a historically Black school.

Still, the episode, like Cornel West's announcement this week that he had resigned from Harvard University, cracked open conversations about how privilege and systemic racism play out in higher education.

How is racial inequality entrenched in universities and colleges? What did the tenure saga reveal about the experiences of Black students at majority-White institutions like UNC? And with Hannah-Jones relocating to Howard, will HBCUs get the respect they deserve?

To parse these questions about race in higher education, I spoke with Adam Harris, a staff writer at The Atlantic, where he covers education, and the author of the forthcoming book, "The State Must Provide: Why America's Colleges Have Always Been Unequal -- and How to Set Them Right."

The following conversation has been lightly edited for length and clarity.

How is inequality baked into our higher education system?

Even the foundation of the public higher education system -- in particular, as we think of it today -- wasn't necessarily built on the idea of broad accessibility for everyone. It was built on the idea of creating places to train White male farmers. There were places to teach men the art of war. There were places to teach men the law. But there weren't places to teach men how to be productive farmers.

What grew out of that was the 1862 Morrill Act, which was a way to give states land scrips -- often for land taken from Native people -- that could be sold to fund schools. These institutions were attended almost solely by White men for the first few decades of their existence and in some instances by White people for more than a century.

From that foundation, you have different iterations of bolstering and defending that inequality. The federal government goes through iterations of programs where it's funding institutions that are locking Black folks out and going to court to defend segregation laws.

Meanwhile, the institutions Black students attend are underfunded. However, they're still over-performing. After all, these are the institutions that are creating Black doctors and Black lawyers and building the Black middle class.

The biggest losers in all this were UNC's Black students, who missed out on the opportunity to have someone of Hannah-Jones' caliber on campus and who may question whether the school really values them. Does this tension reveal anything about the experiences of Black students at predominantly White schools?

Over the past few years, there's been a reconsideration of the relationship between PWIs and Black students. Around 2016 and 2017, you start to see a lot of articles about how Black students are rethinking their places on these campuses.

From the integration of colleges to now, there have been several iterations of student protest at PWIs -- Black students calling for greater diversity in the student population and greater diversity in the faculty population.

Also, as campuses have become more diverse, you have more faculty who are in adjunct roles, in conditional roles. So, they're also trying to fight and survive and stick around at these institutions, hoping that they can achieve tenure.

More and more, Black students might look at a place like Howard or Alabama A&M, where I went, and say, "My whole self will be appreciated and nourished at this institution." I've spoken with several Black students who've said, "I chose this HBCU. It wasn't my fallback option. I chose this because I wanted a place where I would be supported." Black students are thinking about where they want to go -- about what place might best serve them in the long run.

And of course, after deliberation, these students may decide to go to a school like UNC. But I think that Hannah-Jones' move has reoriented people's mindsets. For a long time, if you hadn't had much association with an HBCU, you might've thought that it was a fallback option, when, really, these institutions aren't any less academically rigorous than PWIs. People actively seek out these institutions. Professors are called to these institutions. And students who go to these institutions thrive afterward.

So, our higher education system is tremendously flawed. How do we correct years and years of racial discrimination?

One of the first things is a kind of reconsideration of how states are funding higher education, specifically public higher education. For instance, it's critical to ask, Are institutions that enroll high numbers of Black students receiving significantly less funding? This is the case in lots of states. Typically, as an institution has more Black students, it receives less money.

That's in part because some of the most selective institutions in most states enroll few Black students. It's the way that the system has historically been set up.

And the kind of piecemeal solutions that have been proposed to address this don't necessarily get the job done, particularly because it's such a root problem. Public policy created this problem. Public policy is going to be able to fix it.

I also caution against the idea that philanthropy will solve everything, that the rush of giving to HBCUs over the past year will assuredly continue. In 2020, we saw several of the single largest donations ever to HBCUs, and some of those donations were $5 million. You have to remember that other institutions have been able to benefit from years and years of those sorts of donations, years and years of state funding. You have to ask, What could these colleges have done to build on that money? How much money did they miss out on by not being able to build over time?

One injection of money doesn't undo decades of segregated and fundamentally inequitable education.

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SPRINGFIELD, Ore. -- Along Came Trudy is facing even more fines from Oregon OSHA.

State officials say the Springfield restaurant is accused of not making any changes after receiving a $9,215 fine earlier this year for violating COVID-19 restrictions.

MORE: ALONG CAME TRUDY REMAINS OPEN DESPITE FINES

In February, the restaurant stayed open for dine-in even after receiving the fine, which they appealed.

A new letter from Oregon OSHA says a fine of $42,525 has been issued on top of the earlier fine for a total of $51,740.

Employers have 30 days to appeal citations.
EUGENE, Ore. -- Two Eugene-Springfield area residents are recovering after testing positive for the highly-contagious Delta variant of COVID-19.

Lane County Public Health said both patients were unvaccinated. Contract tracing identifies the exposure for one of the cases back to someone in Douglas County. Further sequencing and investigation is currently being done.

Jason Davis, Lane County Public Health spokesman, said just because this variant has been detected in the community, life doesn't need to be put on hold.

"The reason why we didn't come out with a press release on the fact that we noticed two Delta variants is because I don't think it's something that our community needs to drastically change their actions for," Davis said.

Dr. Jason Cronin, Infectious Disease Specialist at PeaceHealth, said that the variant has adapted to become more contagious and possibly more severe than any variant we've seen before.

"This is what we believe to be about 50% more contagious than the last very contagious variant that we all know about and saw a few months ago," Cronin said.

This variant started in India around December and made its way to America in March.

But here's the good news: doctors stress that the COVID-19 vaccines will stop the Delta strain.

"The biggest thing is that fear is not the appropriate reaction," Davis said. "The Delta variant is not something that is going to rewrite the rules. It is still very much COVID, and for the majority of people, it's going to manifest itself."
OAKRIDGE, Ore. -- A local church in Oakridge is facing backlash over a sermon that included a statement about a young boy waving a Blue Lives Matter flag in the area.

Oakridge United Methodist Church pastor Ross Spencer told KEZI 9 News he regrets his decision to include the boy in his sermon.

In this sermon, called "Patriotism With Open Eyes," Spencer said: There's a young kid who every day waves his transformed, miscolored stars and stripes in front of our church in celebration of the former president and his return to power.

He is referring to 15-year-old Benjamin Davidson, a resident of Oakridge who is known for going around town with either an American flag or a Blue Lives Matter flag.

Benjamin's mom, Priscilla, said her son is autistic. Spencer said in light of finding out who Benjamin truly is, he is apologetic for his comment.

"I was ignorant of his issues that he's facing, and I do want to apologize for him and his family. I did not mean to hurt them or characterize him in any bad way," said Spencer.

Davidson told KEZI 9 News her son started his passion for flags a little over a year ago. And with his dad being a police officer in Oakridge, Benjamin also has a love for what he calls, "his boys in blue." Davidson said she is appalled by the recent sermon given by Spencer.

"He does this all on his own. No one is making him go out there and wave flags," said Davidson.

Davidson also said some community members believe Benjamin comes from an abusive household and said that is simply not true.

"When he waves the flag, it's his way of putting freedom in the air, is what he says. It just, it means the world to him, it means God and it means country, and it means patriotism, and it's just who he is and he's a good person, and he has a heart of gold and that's what he wants to spread," said Davidson.

Even with the apology from Spencer on Facebook, Davidson said she doesn't think she will want to meet with him face-to-face.

Spencer also said he hopes to change his sermons and their direction after this controversy, and he said he will be more careful with bringing politics into his sermons.
EUGENE, Ore. - Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg visited Western Oregon on Wednesday to promote President Bidens Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework.

He started in Corvallis where he visited the area of Highway 99, the scene of several traffic fatalities over the years. Buttigieg then visited Lane Transit District to see their new fleet of electric buses.

Congressman Peter DeFazio joined the tour to highlight the benefits that infrastructure investments provide to the economy, job creation, transportation safety and the fight against climate change.

"Every transportation decision, every transportation policy is also a climate decision. It's also climate policy whether we recognize it or not. And we're going to recognize it," said Buttigieg.

The issue of climate change is even more relevant after 116 people died in July's heatwave.

"We were talking about the wildfires and the horrible loss of life in this heatwave," said Buttigieg. "That was literally off the charts and the simple reality is that we need to have more climate-resilient infrastructure and stop it from getting any worse."

Buttigieg touted Lane Transit Districts move to electric since they are one of the first transit districts to do so. He also focused on Biden's infrastructure bill that is now at $4.1 trillion.

"We're talking about the biggest investment in roads and bridges since the Eisenhower area. It's the biggest investment in public transit ever in the history of the country," said Buttigieg

But will it be enough to see serious change? Representative DeFazio, who is also pushing his INVEST in America act, said it will.

"If I can maintain my numbers in negotiations with the senate, Oregon is going to see a huge increase in federal funding," said DeFazio.

Buttigieg agreed and said it will bring jobs and improvements to roads, especially along Highway 99.

But even if the infrastructure bill is passed, Buttigieg said it's only the beginning.

"It's going to allow us to go to the next level, to take care of what we have, but also to add onto it," said Buttigieg.
JUNCTION CITY, Ore.  On Thursday, Junction City fire officials began a new phase of their response to a large fire at Wood Recovery in Junction City that took several days to bring under control. According to Chief Brandon Nicol, with the fire now contained, the investigation is beginning to figure out how it started.

It's a matter of looking for anybody that might have seen anything at the time of the fire, that either seems suspicious or maybe not suspicious, Nicol said. It could have been organic in nature, and we just need to try and put together those pieces and talk to the people that might have been in and around the area to see what they saw before the fire department got there.

Junction City Fire handed control of the property back to Wood Recovery and an adjoining company on Wednesday. Nicol said the companies are now in charge of monitoring the logs and stumps which are still smoldering. Sprinklers have also been installed and are pumping water on the materials to keep them wet.

RELATED: FIRE IN JUNCTION CITY WORRIES LOCAL BUSINESSES AND RESIDENTS

At one point, the fire was within a couple hundred feet of the mill itself. Nicol said theres always a certain amount of risk when running a business like this.

There's never going to be a way to completely eliminate these things. They're dealing with products that can organically decompose. Anytime you have organic decomposition, you have the potential for spontaneous combustion, Nicol said.

RELATED: JUNCTION CITY MILL FIRE STILL BURNING DAYS LATER

Still, this is the companys third fire since 2017. Nicol said the fire department was called out for a fire at the company just a month ago, and was preparing to make notifications to the business about ways to reduce the fire risk when the large fire broke out Sunday. He said theyve had conversations with the owners about fire safety before, but theres only so much the department can do.

All we can do is note any hazards, deficiencies, and you know, give them an opportunity to remedy those, but we don't have the enforcement to actually make it happen, Nicol said.

However, Nicol is requesting the Office of the State Fire Marshal to assist with the investigation into the blaze. As a division of Oregon State Police, the state fire marshal can wield more enforcement power.
By Ivan Ssenabulya

The World Health Organization has signed an agreement of financial support worth Shs 8 billion, with the Norwegian ministry of foreign affairs to roll out COVID-19 vaccination across all districts in Uganda.

The 12-year agreement is intended to improve vaccine coverage and uptake across the country.

Speaking at the signing ceremony in Kampala, health minister Dr Jane Aceng expressed optimism that this is going to boost vaccination and enhance the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.

The event was graced by WHO Country representative Dr Yonas Tegegn and representatives from the Norwegian embassy. Uganda has so far vaccinated over 1 million people out of the targeted 21 million. According to the health ministry, the countrys cumulative covid-19 infections stands at over 88,600 with more than 2,200 deaths.
By Ritah Kemigisa

Political analysts have described the protests in South Africa as a product of failure by people to deal with injustices.

The protests and looting that erupted last week after former president Jacob Zuma turned himself in to authorities to serve a 15-month jail term for contempt of court has left at least 72 people dead.

Soldiers and police are still struggling to restore order in most parts of the country.

Godber Tumushabe, the associate director at the Great Lakes Institute for Strategic Studies, says the violence being witnessed in South Africa is a build-up from the injustices people have suffered dating back to the apartheid era including the issue of landlessness.

Tumushabe further warns that a country that is faced with such injustices including Uganda cannot attain prosperity.
By AFP Millions of Chinese people face bans from public spaces including schools, hospitals and shopping malls unless they get a Covid-19 vaccine, under new edicts covering nearly two dozen cities and counties.

The coronavirus first emerged in the central Chinese city of Wuhan in late 2019, but since then the country has largely brought it under control  and Beijing is determined to keep it that way.

The tough new rules, which follow the emergence of the highly contagious Delta variant across Asia, will be imposed on numerous second-tier cities in a possible marker of what is to come for the whole country.

China has a national target of inoculating 64 percent of its 1.4 billion population by end of the year, and new measures suggest high levels of coercion.

In Chuxiong city in the southern province of Yunnan, home to about 510,000 people, all residents above the age of 18 need to get at least one dose of the vaccine by July 23, according to a government notice posted late Wednesday.

Those who fail to meet the deadline will not be allowed to enter public facilities including hospitals, nursing homes, kindergartens and schools, libraries, museums, and prisons or take public transport, the notice said.

Read more: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/world/china-threatens-to-ban-unvaccinated-adults-from-schools-hospitals-3474346
By Damali Mukhaye

The opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has identified two suitable candidates to replace their former Vice President for Buganda Region, Joyce Ssebugwawo who recently defected from the party to serve in president Musevenis cabinet as ICT state minister

The duo is Kampala Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago and the former Makindye division MP, Ibrahim Kasoozi.

According to sources within the FDC, the party leaders are yet to agree on who should replace Ssebugwawo with some supporting Lukwago while others supporting Kasozi.

When contacted, the party president Patrick Amuriat did not refute the names of the two candidates but said the information is still privy to the party.

Amuriat says that the party will announce the candidate before the end of next week.

According to Amuriat, the partys working committee which he chairs will sit on Friday this week to choose one name to be forwarded to the National Executive Committee (NEC) for approval.
By Ritah Kemigisa

The United Nations has cited the skills gap among the youth as a major part of Ugandas unemployment challenge.

This comes as Uganda joins the rest of the world to commemorate the 2021 World Youth Skills Day today.

The Day marked every 15th of July was designated by the UN General Assembly in 2014 to celebrate the strategic importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, decent work and entrepreneurship.

In her commemorative message, Elsie Attafuah, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) Resident Representative, says in order to have a skilled young workforce in Uganda, there is a need to address a combination of factors such as technological advancement.

She says the other factors are the type of education and training, as well as the absence of reskilling and upskilling programs to refocus labour on new opportunities for work.

Attafuah also commends the Uganda government for highlighting skills gaps that need to be filled in the countrys National Development Plan III for all the major productions.

She adds that with more than 700,000 youth entering Ugandas job market each year, it is imperative that the quality of skills that youth get in their training improves and is adapting to the changing context of work and digital revolution, technological advancement and globalisation.

According to the ministry of gender, labour and social development, Ugandas unemployment rate is 13.3%
By Xinhua

At least 20 members of Angola presidents security house have been arrested by the countrys Attorney Generals Office (PGR) in eastern Cuando Cubango, suspect of embezzlement, retention of currency and criminal association, the spokesperson of the PGR, Alvaro Joao, said on Wednesday.

Alvaro Joao added that investigations will continue and that by the time of the arrests, those involved were found with several sums of local currency kept in containers. Early in May, the PGR said it seized millions of kwanzas, euros, U.S. dollars, residences and luxury vehicles, as part of a criminal case involving several generals of the Angolan Armed Forces. The PGR adds that high-ranking officers of the presidents security house are being investigated on crimes of embezzlement, retention of currency, criminal association and others.

Several general officers of the presidents security house have been removed from office early this month as part of an ongoing criminal investigation carried out by the PGR.There are assets that are here in Angola and others outside the country. We have already set international cooperation in motion to help us identify and locate these assets, so that they can be seized, the countrys Attorney General, Pitta Groz said early this month.
By Xinhua

South Africas Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula on Wednesday said the government plans to deploy about 25,000 soldiers to deal with the ongoing unrest in the country.

We have now submitted, now now, a request for deployment of plus-minus 25,000 members, Mapisa-Nqakula virtually briefed the Joint Standing Committee on Defence of the Parliament, which is a significant increase from the initially proposed 2,500 members and then 10,000 members.We will start with the 25,000, she said, adding that currently there are no less than 1,000 members in KwaZulu-Natal Province, where the unrest started, including 800 in the port city Durban.

The government is also trying to ensure the military visibility of vehicles and helicopter patrols, she added. The minister also said she will leave for KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday morning and to be on the ground.The ongoing unrest mainly in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal provinces in the countrys eastern part, triggered by the imprisonment of former South African president Jacob Zuma, has claimed at least 26 lives in KwaZulu-Natal alone. Hundreds of shops and businesses were looted during the initially political motivated protest, with roads being blocked, properties and vehicles damaged and burned.

Zuma, who was sentenced to 15 months in prison after being convicted of defying the Constitutional Courts order which compelled him to appear and give evidence at the State Capture Commission in February, has challenged the sentence. A judgment is expected to be announced at a later date.
Weather Alert

...THUNDERSTORMS TO BRING POTENTIAL FOR NEW FIRE STARTS MONDAY NIGHT THROUGH WEDNESDAY MORNING... .Two rounds of lightning are possible this week. The first may bring isolated thunderstorms late Monday night into Tuesday morning. The second round arrives from late Tuesday night into Wednesday morning and may produce scattered thunderstorms. ...FIRE WEATHER WATCH IN EFFECT FROM LATE MONDAY NIGHT THROUGH WEDNESDAY MORNING FOR THUNDERSTORMS FOR THE IDAHO PANHANDLE (ZONE 101) AND PALOUSE AND SPOKANE AREA (ZONE 674)... The National Weather Service in Spokane has issued a Fire Weather Watch for thunderstorms, which is in effect from late Monday night through Wednesday morning. * Affected Area: Fire Weather Zone 101 Northern and Central Idaho Panhandle (Zone 101) and Fire Weather Zone 674 East Washington Palouse and Spokane Area (Zone 674). * Thunderstorms: Isolated thunderstorms late Monday Night and Tuesday morning. Scattered thunderstorms late Tuesday Night and Wednesday morning. Brief rain expected with thunderstorms * Outflow Winds: Gusty outflow winds are possible near thunderstorms. * Impacts: Thunderstorms containing only light rain amounts may lead to several new fire starts. Breezy winds may lead to fire spread of any new or existing fires especially on Wednesday. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... A Fire Weather Watch means that critical fire weather conditions are forecast to occur. Listen for later forecasts and possible Red Flag Warnings. &&
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Ireland's auctioneer to Hollywood, Sean Eacrett in Laois, will be bringing the gavel down on his latest celluloid props collection, with Vikings and Game Of Thrones on Monday July 26th next.

International collectors will be poised to pounce online - scroll down to see the full list of items for sale and photographs of some stunning pieces!

The auction will feature thrones and costumes from the six season Amazon Prime and History Channel Norse series, and notably two other items of particular interest; giant candelabras from Game Of Thrones.

Sean is now synonymous with the auction of Irish film sets and props since it all started in 2016.

I was dealing with a client in the antiques world a few years ago, who mentioned that he was the production manager on Penny Dreadful, a series that was being filmed in Dublin at the time, he remembers, so I suggested that if he ever wanted to sell the props and costumes after filming to let me know, and it turned out he was up for it.

After the highly successful auction, Sean asked the client;

Why did you choose me?

The production manager replied; You were the only one that asked!

The first auction for Penny Dreadful, five years ago this month, was a total success, as has every other film or television auction since hosted by Sean Eacrett. Just about every series to be filmed in Ardmore or Ashford now offer their props and sets to Eacrett for international sale.

Every film auction has been a 100% sellout he says.

And that includes a massive warehouse of props from Into The Badlands auctioned last year during the final months of the first lockdown. Over six thousand colourful and intriguing props filled the massive conference centre of Killenard Hotel County Laois before all went under the online hammer.

These auctions also benefits the Irish film industry.

Basically I am selling the props sets and costumes for them at a commission. Otherwise they would have to be stored or sold cheaply

That first Penny Dreadful auction was this month five years ago and now Sean Eacrett is the go to film and tv props and set auctioneer in Ireland.

International film clients now include MGM, Showtime and AMC.

Productions include Into The Badlands, Penny Dreadful, Dracula Untold Vikings, Valhalla, and Ripper Street; all have completely sold out.

Online brings its own advantages attracting interest from all over the world The biggest buyer for the Into The Badlands series clicked on in Lithuania to buy two container loads of props; forty foot long each.

Sean was the first auctioneer house to use online bidding in 2005 and he now uses easylive.com and liveauctioneers.com.

It is now its de rigeur for most auction rooms to use online sites, its standard practise, he says.

Sean Eacrett is probably one of the few auction houses in Ireland who can handle the big scale events; he is happy to rent Punchestown or Killenard for the auction if needs be.

There are plenty of home filmed movies coming up that he has his eye on. Are you listening Disney in Enniskerry?!

The July 26th auction features props primarily from the six Vikings series filmed in County Wicklow, and two items of interest from Game Of Thrones

Some of these quite unusual objects would suit a pub or a collector.

Game Of Thrones

Lot 650 Pair of Tall Metal Candelabras, estimate 400-800 (below)

Vikings

Of the Vikings 120 lots, highlights include wooden thrones up to two metres tall.

Lot 506 King Ivors throne Season 4 of Vikings, est 300-500. (Below)

Lot 544 King Alfreds throne Vikings season 5 and 6; 300-500. (Below)

Lot 558: Flokis table; Vikings; est 200-400.

Lot 559 King Aelles throne; est 200-400.

Lot 530 Aslaugs Boat Chair; Season 2 of Vikings, est 200-400. (Below)

Lot 545 King Mikmaqs throne from season 6 of Vikings 2 x 2 metres ; est 200-400.

Lot 522 Odo of Pariss table, from Vikings. Est 200-400



(All hardwood with metal bandings.)

Lots 524 & 525: Flokis boat cabinet (2) 2 metres tall, Vikings, est 100-200 each.



Lot 509 A birthing table. (Looks like a sleigh.) Est 100-200.

All lots: Items from The Great Hall Of Kattegat, as filmed in Ashford County Wicklow including axes, cabinets chairs, chests and tables.

Highly decorative hardwood.

Vikings ran for six series, which were filmed in Ashford County Wicklow on a set which included an entire mock village called Kattegat.

The props up for auction online at Sean Eacrett might suit a Vikings buff, a movie fan or collector or even a commercial buyer in the hospitality industry.
CHARLES CITY, Iowa  Two Floyd County nurses have won $3,500 scholarships from the Iowa Hospital Education and Research Foundation (IHERF).

Ashle Dittmer is an RN and is attending Chamberlain University pursuing a Nursing, BSN degree. Rachel Conrad is an RN and is pursuing a Nursing, MSN- Nursing Education degree at Aspen University. Both Floyd County Medical Center (FCMC) nurses are among 60 students from Iowa who have received assistance this year from the IHERF Health Care Careers Scholarship Program.

We were excited to hear Ashle and Rachel had earned scholarships through the IHERF Program, says Kim Isakson, FCMC Chief Nursing Officer. They are an asset to our organization and the community. By advancing their education, they will continue to make a difference impacting the lives of those around them and benefiting the nursing profession as a whole.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The FBI made numerous serious errors in investigating sexual abuse allegations against former USA Gymnastics national team doctor Larry Nassar and didn't treat the case with the utmost seriousness, the Justice Department's inspector general said Wednesday. The FBI acknowledged conduct that was inexcusable and a discredit" to America's premier law enforcement agency.

The long-awaited watchdog report raises serious questions about how the department and the FBI handled the case and it highlights serious missteps at the FBI between the time the allegations were first reported and Nassars arrest.

The inspector generals investigation was spurred by allegations that the FBI failed to promptly address complaints made in 2015 against Nassar. USA Gymnastics had conducted its own internal investigation and then the organization's then-president, Stephen Penny, reported the allegations to the FBI's field office in Indianapolis. But it took months before the bureau opened a formal investigation.

At least 40 girls and women said they were molested over a 14-month period while the FBI was aware of other sexual abuse allegations involving Nassar. Officials at USA Gymnastics also contacted FBI officials in Los Angeles in May 2016 after eight months of inactivity from agents in Indianapolis.

The inspector generals office found that despite the extraordinarily serious nature of the allegations against Nassar, FBI officials in Indianapolis did not respond with the utmost seriousness and urgency that they deserved and required.

When they did respond, the report said, FBI officials made numerous and fundamental errors and also violated bureau policies. Among the missteps was a failure to conduct any investigative activity until more than a month after a meeting with USA Gymnastics. Agents interviewed by phone one of three athletes, but never spoke with two other gymnasts despite being told they were available to meet.

The watchdog investigation also found that when the FBI's Indianapolis field offices handling of the matter came under scrutiny, officials there did not take any responsibility for the missteps and gave incomplete and inaccurate information to internal FBI inquiries.

The FBI rebuked its own employees who failed to act in the case and said it should not have happened.

The actions and inactions of certain FBI employees described in the Report are inexcusable and a discredit to this organization, the agency said in a statement.

The FBI has taken affirmative steps to ensure and has confirmed that those responsible for the misconduct and breach of trust no longer work FBI matters, the statement said. We will take all necessary steps to ensure that the failures of the employees outlined in the Report do not happen again.

The inspector general interviewed an FBI supervisory special agent last September who said the original allegations reported by Penny and USA Gymnastics were very vague and who questioned Pennys credibility, describing him as kind of a snake oil salesman kind of guy.

That special agent also told investigators that the Indianapolis field office didnt appear to have jurisdiction to investigate because the alleged crimes did not take place in Indiana. That agent and an FBI supervisor in the office said they told Penny to contact local law enforcement  a claim contradicted by Penny and the chairman of the USA Gymnastics Board of Directors.

The FBI said the supervisory special agent violated multiple policies and that the agency took immediate action when it learned that the agent did not properly document the sexual abuse complaints, had mishandled evidence and failed to report abuse.

Nassar was ultimately charged in 2016 with federal child pornography offenses and sexual abuse charges in Michigan.

He is now serving decades in prison after hundreds of girls and women said he sexually abused them under the guise of medical treatment when he worked for Michigan State and Indiana-based USA Gymnastics, which trains Olympians.

The inspector generals office said it reviewed thousands of documents and interviewed more than 60 witnesses, including several victims, their parents, prosecutors and current and former FBI employees.

The FBI's handling of the case was strongly condemned by members of Congress, and some senators called for the inspector general, Michael Horowitz, FBI Director Christopher Wray and Attorney General Merrick Garland to testify about the case.

We are appalled by the FBIs gross mishandling of the specific warnings its agents received about Larry Nassars horrific abuse years before he was finally arrested, said Sens. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., and Jerry Moran, R-Kan.
A federal freeze on most evictions that was enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, has been the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and have fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing that they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rent.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they would face eviction within the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Iowa:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Iowa's state ban on evictions expired in May 2020 as Gov. Kim Reynolds moved aggressively to lift coronavirus restrictions in the state. That left the federal moratorium on evictions as the only protection for renters.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Iowa set up a rent and utility assistance program with $195 million in federal money. The aid covers up to 12 months of late rent and utility bills for renters who make up to 80% of their area's median income. Iowans also have to show that they either lost their job or experienced another significant financial blow caused by the pandemic.

So far, the state estimates that $2.55 million in rent and utility assistance has been distributed to 934 families statewide, but that doesn't include a separate aid program for the Des Moines area that has distributed more than $8 million of its $14 million to 1,856 households. The rest of that money has been earmarked for applications being processed now.

Last year, Iowa distributed $31.3 million to roughly 14,000 renters in the state through a different rental assistance program.

We cant possibly process applications fast enough to help people avoid evictions after the moratorium ends if we cant get the courts to be patient for the folks who have already applied for assistance, but it is just taking a while to get approved, said Anne Bacon, of the IMPACT Community Action Partnership group, which is overseeing the Des Moines area programs.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

The CDC moratorium has prevented many but not all evictions in Iowa. Alex Kornya, general counsel at Iowa Legal Aid, said some landlords have been able to evict people whose leases had expired by arguing that they were being evicted because of the expired lease, not because of late payments. Still, the number of eviction lawsuits statewide fell from roughly 18,000 in 2019 to 12,364 last year because of the moratoriums, Kornya said. So far in 2021, 5,944 eviction cases have been filed in Iowa courts.

WHATS THE STATUS OF THE EVICTION MORATORIUM IN MINNESOTA?

Finding an off ramp for the state's eviction moratorium was one of the priorities for the Legislature's special session this month. Negotiators announced a bipartisan agreement June 14 that they said would offer strong protections and clear timelines for people who owe back rent to secure assistance, which is paid directly to landlords.

Landlords would be required to send notices to tenants who are behind on their rent 15 days prior to eviction. Tenants who have claimed but not yet received state rental assistance would be protected from eviction through June 1, 2022.

Walz has said he would sign whatever off ramp the state's divided Legislature is able to pass.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP MINNESOTANS FACING EVICTION?

Minnesota is making $672 million in federal aid available through RentHelpMN.org to tenants in need, although landlords and tenant advocates say the program's rules are too cumbersome and that the pace of payments has been too slow. To qualify, an applicant's household income may not exceed 80% of the median income of an applicant's home county. Applicants can ask for retroactive help back to March 13, 2020, and up to three months of future rent, for a total of 15 months' worth.

According to the PolicyLink National Equity Atlas dashboard, 62,000 Minnesota households are behind on their rent  an average of $3,300 per household for a total of $207 million in total rent debt.

HOW ARE MINNESOTA COURTS HANDLING EVICTIONS?

The governor's moratorium put most eviction lawsuits on hold. The Minnesota Multi Housing Association, which represents landlords who own about half of the state's rental units, filed suit in federal court on June 14 to try to force an end to the moratorium, though the case may become moot if the off ramp legislation passes. The trade group argued that Walz's moratorium, which was broader than the CDC's, allowed for only extreme exceptions that had proven impossible to meet in practice, such as when a tenant endangers other tenants or causes serious property damage.

The association also said threats of prosecution by Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison had chilled landlords' efforts to evict problem tenants in all but the most egregious circumstances. The group said Ellison brought at least four enforcement actions in just over a month after the moratorium was imposed and threatened several others.

WHAT IS THE AFFORDABILITY IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Minneapolis, St. Paul and some other Minnesota cities traditionally have tight rental housing markets, although vacancy rates have risen amid the pandemic and following the unrest over the killing of George Floyd last summer. As of May, the overall median monthly rent in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area had risen by 0.8% over the last year, to $1,468, according to a report released June 16 by Realtor.com. Median rents for a two-bedroom apartment rose by 4.9%, to $1,750.

Efforts are underway to put rent control measures on the November ballot in Minneapolis and St. Paul.

WHAT IS THE AFFORDABILITY IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Iowa has a tight rental market and a shortage of affordable housing. The state reported a 4.9% vacancy rate last year, which was below the national average of 7%. Statewide, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment last year was $774.70, which was 5% higher than in 2017, when the average rent was $738.70. Data on rental housing during the pandemic is not yet available.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

It's hard to say how much homelessness might increase in Iowa, but evictions are expected to jump. The number of inquiries Iowa Legal Aid received about evictions nearly doubled last year after the federal $600 a week boost to unemployment benefits expired.

Kornya said he's concerned that evictions will spike in Iowa once the CDC moratorium ends, particularly because the state quit participating in enhanced unemployment benefits this month, depriving recipients of $300 a week in federal aid.

We see enough out there to be extremely worried about what the future will hold, he said. Recent census data showed that there were 31,702 adults in the state who feared they could be evicted within two months.
ROCHESTER, Minn. - After an intense evening for education leaders, the Med City's new interim superintendent of public schools is responding to concerns about how race could be presented to students.

In a public comment period during Tuesday's Rochester Public School Board meeting, a number of people took to the podium, speaking out against what they referred to as Critical Race Theory. Listening on to the impassioned, and sometimes personal, remarks was Dr. Kent Pekel, taking in his first school board meeting as the district's interim superintendent.

Dr. Pekel maintains it's always useful for district leaders to hear the concerns of community members, and he's pleased that for the most part, speakers stayed respectful in their remarks. While public comment periods are a time for officials to listen rather than respond, the interim superintendent told KIMT Wednesday most concerns raised about Critical Race Theory don't have anything to do with RPS.

"We are not teaching Critical Race Theory in Rochester Public Schools," Pekel told KIMT. "We are deeply committed to equity, we're committed to looking at the systemic issues in our school district that get in the way of equity. But Critical Race Theory is an academic framework that originated in the legal world, and has since been used for analytic purposes, mostly in graduate schools, and we teach to Minnesota state standards."

Dr. Pekel explains Critical Race Theory is used to analyze or explain the world and its systems, but it's not a lesson plan or curriculum that would be taught in a district classroom.
AUSTIN, Minn.  An Iowa driver accused of drunkenly colliding with a Mower County bicyclist is pleading not guilty.

Robinson Victor Epina, 30 of Storm Lake, IA, is charged with criminal vehicular operation and fourth-degree DWI. He was arrested in July 2019 after Austin police said Epinas vehicle struck a female bicyclist in the intersection of 8th Place NW and 1st Drive NW.

Officers said the victim was found lying in the road and bleeding from her arm. Court documents state Epina was found parked near the intersection and had glassy, bloodshot eyes and the smell of alcohol on his breath. Investigators said a breath test found Epina had a blood alcohol content of .13 percent, almost twice the legal limit.

Epina entered his not guilty plea Thursday. His trial is scheduled to begin on January 31, 2022.
The American Legion in Byron is seeking donations for a veterans memorial.

The memorial would be the first for the city, which currently does not have a designated location to honor veterans.

The Legion has pledged $25,000 for the proposed memorial, with a funding goal of $300,000.

Carl Dewaard is the post commander at the Legion and said he started the campaign because there was a lack of military memorials in Byron.

"Byron was the only community in the region that does not have a memorial, so I decided to take it upon and make it an issue and try to make it come true," Dewaard said.

Those that want to contribute to the veteran memorial can do so through the Byron Community Foundation.
ALBERT LEA, Minn.  A man accused of sex crimes in 2013 and 2021 now has two separate trials scheduled.

Vincente Ramon Martinez, 41 of Glenville, was first arrested in Freeborn County in 2019 and charged with first- and second-degree criminal sexual conduct. Investigators say the sexual abuse happened in 2013 and involved a victim under the age of 13.

Martinez was then charged in May 2021 with four counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct. Law enforcement says Martinez was living in an Albert Lea hotel when he offered a woman a ride home. Authorities say he then sexually assaulted the woman.

Martinez trial on the 2013 charges is scheduled to begin on October 5 and the trial for the 2021 offenses is set to start September 21. Both trials will be conducted in Freeborn County District Court.

Martinez remains in the Freeborn County Jail on $300,000 bond.
MASON CITY, Iowa  A man arrested after a high-speed chase gets consecutive sentences in three separate criminal cases.

Dean Edward Miller, 51 of Mason City, was accused of driving away from an attempted traffic stop in Mason City on March 17. Court documents state he did not stop for emergency lights, and led at least three law enforcement vehicles on a pursuit that reached speeds 25 miles per hour over the limit.

There were two arrest warrants out for Miller. One was for driving without a license on February 19 and the other was for assaulting someone on March 3.

Miller pleaded guilty to eluding, two counts of driving while barred, and misdemeanor assault. He was sentenced to 14 days for the February 19 incident, two days for the March 3 arrest, and 30 days for the Marcy 17 chase. Those sentenced will be served one after the other, for a total of 46 days in jail, but Miller will receive credit for time already served.

He must also pay $535 in fines.
MASON CITY, Iowa  A North Iowa man is set to stand trial for breaking into a home and grabbing a woman.

Joshua Dean Jasso, 29 of Mason City, was arrested in May and charged with first-degree burglary. Court documents state he manipulated the door lock to enter a home in the 400 block of S. Polk in Mason City. Investigators say he took a female occupants phone away from her so she could not call for help, then grabbed her and would not let her leave.

Authorities say Jasso didnt leave until a neighbor responded to the womans cries for help. Court documents state the woman suffered bruising on her arm from this incident.

Jasso has pleaded not guilty and his trial is scheduled to start on October 19.
GARNER, Iowa  A Mason City woman is accused of attacking three people in Hancock County.

Amanda Jo Seely, 32, is charged with willful injury causing serious injury, assault, and assault on persons in certain occupations.

Court records state Seely entered a home in the 300 block of E 6th Street in Garner on Tuesday afternoon. Seely allegedly grabbed a woman around the neck and threw her to the side and stomped another person who was lying on the couch. Authorities say the person on the couch was taken to the hospital for possible broken ribs.

After she was arrested, Seeley is accused of kicking a police officer in the leg as she was being escorted to a police vehicle.
ROCHESTER, Minn. - Mayo Clinic says the pool of people who can be living kidney donors has expanded following the results of a recent study. Doctors say the results can help save more lives.

Previously transplant physicians were concerned about transplanting kidneys from patients with high blood pressure because of the possible long-term health impacts to them while living with just one kidney.

The study from Mayo Clinic included more than 100 patients and was conducted over 20 years. Dr. Mark Stegall, the Professor of Surgery at Mayo Clinic Rochester, says researchers found certain individuals with controlled hypertension can safely donate a kidney.

"We had pretty good data starting out that these people wanting to donate a kidney and we let them donate with mild to high blood pressure that they would do well long-term but now we have the actual data that they're going to do well long-term and this is something I think is really important," said Dr. Stegall.

He went on to say the study is vital because it expands the donor pool and shortens the time someone is on the waiting list.

He explained, "The take-home message is we're really going out of our way to do the follow-up and to really prove to everyone, including the people who are willing to donate, that living donation is a safe procedure and that people should feel comfortable even asking their loved ones to donate if they need a kidney transplant."

The study is one of the first formal studies to be published with intermediate to long-term outcomes of donors diagnosed with high blood pressure according to Mayo Clinic.

If you're interested in becoming a kidney donor and to see if you fit the criteria you can click here.
IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP)  A prosecutor rejected defense claims Thursday that the 2018 killing of University of Iowa student Mollie Tibbetts could be connected to sex trafficking and other abductions that happened in the rural area where she disappeared while out for a run.

A 21-year-old man's alleged confession that he helped kill Tibbetts after she was kidnapped and held at a house used for sex trafficking wasn't credible, Assistant Attorney General Scott Brown said during a hearing on what had been the day 27-year-old Cristhian Behena Rivera was due to be sentenced for her death.

No evidence supports it. None. Zero, Brown said.

He told the court that information about the 21-year-old from two witnesses who came forward late in Behena Rivera's trial independently of one another was inconsistent with Bahena Rivera's own courtroom account of what happened. In a court filing before Thursday's hearing, he argued there should be no doubt about Bahena Riveras guilt based on the evidence.

Prosecutors say Bahena Rivera, a dairy farm worker who was convicted in May of first-degree murder in the slaying, drove past Tibbetts while she was out for her daily run in Brooklyn, her hometown about 50 miles (80 kilometers) west of Iowa City, and that he thought she was attractive, approached her and killed her after she threatened to call police. They say he partially confessed during a lengthy interrogation a month later and led investigators to the cornfield where her body was found.

During his trial, Bahena Rivera claimed publicly for the first time that two masked men kidnapped him from his trailer and forced him to drive before they came upon Tibbetts on a rural road and one of them stabbed her. He said the men loaded her body into his trunk and instructed him to dispose of it in the cornfield.

The hearing Thursday was to determine whether prosecutors should be ordered to turn over to Bahena Riveras lawyers information on sex trafficking investigations in the region where Tibbetts was killed. Brown resisted the defenses request for that information, calling it a fishing expedition.

Judge Joel Yates said he would issue a written ruling at a later date and hold a daylong hearing later this month on the defenses request for a new trial.

Bahena Rivera had been scheduled to be sentenced Thursday to life in prison until his lawyers said they needed more time to investigate the claims of the two new witnesses, who say the 21-year-old told them he helped kill Tibbetts.

Brown said Bahena-Rivera's testimony didn't match those alleged confessions because he made no mention of Tibbetts being held at a secondary location, her body being wrapped in plastic or other details.

Defense lawyers argued that the information from the witnesses could support a link between Tibbetts' death and the May disappearance of an 11-year-old boy from the area, Xavior Harrelson. They noted that a person under scrutiny in that case was previously accused of running a sex trafficking ring out of a home and kidnapping a woman he met in Tibbetts' hometown in May 2018.

Defense lawyer Chad Frese said prosecutors should have disclosed information related to those allegations, which were investigated in 2019 but did not result in charges. He said it was odd that such a small, rural area has had so many reported abductions.

Theres something rotten within this area and they dont want to provide us any information, he said.

Brown said it was unconscionable that defense lawyers publicly revealed information about the ongoing investigation into the boy's disappearance, and that it was not connected to Tibbetts' death.
Rochester's Park and Recreation Department secured funding for the planned Lincolnshire Park splash pad from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resource's Outdoor Recreation Grant Program.

The grant program allocated $195,000 for the project, which will go towards a splash pad, or a water-filled playground, and trail accessibility upgrades.

Jeff Feece is the Park Planner for the Parks and Recreation Department and said community parks such as Lincolnshire Park bring people together.

"You know, they provide the opportunity to get people outdoors and provide kind of a location to meet each other and to socialize and to have fun. Hopefully, it brings people together and gets them outdoors," Feece said.

Feece predicts splash pad construction to begin later this fall.
FLOYD COUNTY, Iowa - A tornado Wednesday near the Avenue of the Saints in Floyd County was classified as an EF-1 with a max wind speed of 90 miles per hour.

The National Weather Service in La Crosse said the length of the tornado was 11 miles and went from 5:35 p.m. to 6 p.m.

It was located three miles north of Rockford to five miles northwest of Charles City.

A second tornado near Oelwein was an EF-0 with a max wind speed of 70 miles per hour.

------

The NWS in La Crosse WI conducted a damage survey today and documented two tornado tracks in northeast Iowa near Oelwein and Charles City, respectively. Full details can be found here: https://t.co/lDCYsDL0Ma pic.twitter.com/O7YXI3HNy2  NWS La Crosse (@NWSLaCrosse) July 15, 2021

Following a day that was forecasted for severe weather, regions of North Iowa are cleaning up after what is estimated to be multiple confirmed tornadoes that developed between Cerro Gordo and Floyd counties.

Just after 3 PM CDT the Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma issued a mesoscale discussion indicating a 95% probability of a Tornado Watch being issued across Central and North Iowa. Roughly thirty minutes later, the watch was issued as the forecast called for convective initiation to develop just after 4 PM CDT along the Iowa and Nebraska border.

As expected, storms began to show up on the Des Moines, IA radar site. Quickly, tornadic supercells developed across Central Iowa. Leading up to Wednesday, the big question across the meteorology community was "When will the clearing occur and who will see it?" This meaning that during the break between waves one and two of Wednesdays severe weather threat, where would the clouds dissipate, and sun return.

As showers continued to suppress the severe threat for most of Southern Minnesota, cloud coverage soon became pockets of sunshine and blue skies across North and Central Iowa. This allowed for CAPE (Convective Available Potential Energy) to surge northward, destabilizing the atmosphere. At the same time, with dew points in the mid 60s, shear, and Storm Relative Helicity (SRH) great enough to aid in the development of tornadic genesis, it was only a matter of time before warnings would come across a NOAA Weather Radio, and mobile devices.

As Central Iowa saw the tornadic genesis unfold early in the tornado watch period (which was set to expire at 9 PM CDT), it wouldn't be until 5 PM CDT that North Iowa would become a part of the action. Cells soon began to show up west of Garner, IA as the atmosphere around it became more unstable with time. While this occurred, a cell soon developed to the South of Mason City, IA. It would be this cell that would spawn the tornado near Nora Springs, IA as it traveled SSE, coming close to Highway 18, likely crossing it.

As the storm evolved, a tornado warning was issued as a pronounced couplet formed on the radars velocity scan. It was here the National Weather Service (NWS) in La Crosse, WI issued the tornado warning. Sirens quickly sounded across Rockford, Nora Springs and Rudd. Moments later images of the stove pipe tornado surfaced across social media platforms. The once semi-rain wrapped tornado was on the ground and in a region of clearing, away from rain. This made it visible to viewers across Rockford, IA.

After its initiation, the tornado became cyclic in nature as the velocity couplet would decrease in intensity, then quickly resurface with each radar pass. This would continue on for around forty to fifty minutes as the cell continued a path now towards Charles City, IA before falling apart soon after.

Behind this cell, another cell south of Garner, IA was also issued a tornado warning. That warning was discontinued at its set time seen in the warning discussion.

Today, the NWS will be sending a crew to conduct damage evaluations of the region impacted, as well as other observations before coming to a conclusion on the appropriate scaled intensity of the tornadoes spotted. A report is expected to be released following the crews analysis.
Hospitals across Missouri are struggling to keep up with the demand for children's mental health services. St. Louis Children's Hospital said it has had to move some children to different floors because the behavioral health unit is at capacity.
MOUNT VERNON  Judge John Thatcher found eight guilty after hearings were held at the Mount Municipal Court on July 12, 2021.

Nicholas Higgins, 41 of Mount Vernon, was found guilty of Domestic Violence. The Court sentenced him to serve 180 days in jail, with 96 days suspended, and placed him on two years of probation with the following conditions: complete a drug and alcohol assessment as soon as is practicable, complete the Mount Vernon Municipal Courts Hands Down program, and be assessed for MERIT Court.

Justin Howell, 18 of Danville, was found guilty of Driving Under Suspension and Underage Possession of Alcohol. The Court sentenced him to pay a $200 for the DUS charge and to serve 180 days in jail, with 175 days suspended and placed him on two years of probation with the following condition: complete a drug and alcohol assessment as soon as is practicable for the Underage Possession charge.

David Gray, 29 of Howard, was found guilty of Operating a Vehicle While Under the Influence. The Court sentenced him to pay a $700 fine, serve 180 days in jail, with 170 days suspended, placed him on two years of community control with the following condition: complete a drug and alcohol assessment as soon as is practicable, and suspended his operators license for two years.

Jessica Neal, 36 of Parkersburg, WV, was found guilty of Operating a Vehicle While Under the Influence. The Court sentenced her to pay a $500 fine, serve 180 days in jail, with 174 days suspended, placed her on two years of community control with the following conditions: attend and complete a 72-hour driver intervention program and complete a drug and alcohol assessment as soon as is practicable, and suspended her operators license for one year.

Michael Sullivan, 61 of Howard, was found guilty of Speeding. The Court sentenced him to pay a $100 fine.

William Caley, 62 of Ashland, was found guilty of Operating a Vehicle While Under the Influence. The Court sentenced him to pay a $500 fine, serve 180 days in jail, with 177 days suspended, placed him on two years of community control with the following condition: attend and complete a 72-hour driver intervention program, and suspended his operators license for one year.

Scott Cosner, 36 of Mount Vernon, was found guilty of Criminal Mischief. He will be sentenced on August 16, 2021.

Joel French, 47 of Howard, was found guilty of two counts of Violating a Protection Order. He will be sentenced on August 30, 2021 following a pre-sentence investigation.

Director of Law Rob Broeren represented the State of Ohio in the French cases. Assistant Director of Law Brittany Whitney represented the City of Mount Vernon and the State of Ohio in the remaining cases.

July 13

Chanse King, 52 of Mount Gilead, was found guilty of Failing to Reinstate his License and Making an Illegal Turn. The Court sentenced him to pay a $200 fine for the Failure to Reinstate charge and a $15 fine for the Turn Signal violation.

Anthony Jordan, 42 of Mount Gilead, was found guilty of Driving Under an FRA Suspension and Failing to Obey a Traffic Control Device. The Court sentenced him to pay a $250 fine for the DUS charge and a $15 fine for the Failing to Obey a Traffic Control Device.

David Meyer, 30 of Fredericktown, was found guilty of Menacing by Stalking and Criminal Trespassing. The Court sentenced him to serve 180 days in jail, and placed him on two years of probation for the Menacing by Stalking charge and was granted credit for time served for the Criminal Trespassing charge.

Scott Llewellyn, 30 of Mount Vernon, was found guilty of Criminal Damaging and Possession of Drug Abuse Instruments. The Court sentenced him to serve 31 days in jail.

Daniel Walton, 28 of Mount Vernon, was found guilty of Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle and two counts of Driving Under an FRA Suspension on June 4, 2021. Today he was sentenced to serve 30 days in jail for each count.

Assistant Director of Law Justin Mackin represented the City of Mount Vernon in the Jordan and Llewellyn cases, the State of Ohio in the King case, and the Village of Fredericktown in the Meyer case. Director of Law Rob Broeren represented the City of Mount Vernon in the Walton case.

July 14

Allen Vandall, 35 of Mount Gilead, was found guilty of theft. The Court sentenced him to one year of Community Control with the following conditions; have no similar offenses, pay a minimum of $100 per month on his fines and costs, comply with all terms of his probation, do not violate any laws, attend a social responsibility clinic and pay restitution. He was sentenced to serve 180 days in jail with 179 days suspended and credit for one day served.

Ricky Konkoskia, 41 of Carroll, was found guilty of Speeding. The Court sentenced him to pay a $75 fine.

Crystal Fletcher, 42 of Dayton, was found guilty of Driving without an Operators License. The Court sentenced her to pay a $50 fine.

Assistant Law Director Justin Mackin represented the State of Ohio and the City of Mount Vernon in the above cases.
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Here's what you need to know: Thursday, July 15
President Moon Jae-in had phone talks Thursday with Vietnam's top leader, Nguyen Phu Trong, on ways to strengthen bilateral ties and cooperation on major regional and global issues, Cheong Wa Dae said.







It marked the first summit-level consultations between the two countries since the election of Vietnam's new communist party leadership in January.







Moon and Trong, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, agreed to proactively cooperate for the development of the "strategic cooperative partnership" between the two sides, according to Cheong Wa Dae. In 2022, they will commemorate the 30th anniversary of forging bilateral diplomatic ties.







Despite the COVID-19 crisis, Moon noted, South Korea and Vietnam maintained the pre-coronavirus level of two-way trade volume last year. He expressed hope for close cooperation to achieve the goal of increasing it to at least $100 billion by 2023.







The Vietnamese leader also proposed joint efforts to expand investment and partnership in the global supply chains to that end, as well as to promote parliamentary cooperation.







He congratulated South Korea on being recognized formally as an advanced economy by the U.N. Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).







Moon stressed that Vietnam is a core partner for South Korea's New Southern Policy. The two countries have "special relations", he said, adding that more than 9,000 South Korean firms are doing business in Vietnam. More than 200,000 South Koreans reside in the Southeast Asian country, with as many Vietnamese people living here.







The president requested that Vietnam play a role as a non-permanent member of the U.N. Security Council for the early resumption of dialogue with North Korea.







Trong replied that his country supports the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and related talks.







On Myanmar, Moon said he hopes for close communication for its democracy and Throng agreed to work together for peace and stability of the country.







They also agreed to bolster coordination in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Yonhap)


Weather Alert

...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON TODAY TO 11 PM MDT TUESDAY FOR THUNDERSTORMS FOR FIRE WEATHER ZONES 410, 411, 413, 422, 425, 427, 475 AND 476... ...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON TODAY TO 11 PM MDT TUESDAY FOR SCATTERED THUNDERSTORMS FOR FIRE WEATHER ZONES 413 AND 427... The National Weather Service in Pocatello has issued a Red Flag Warning for scattered thunderstorms, which is in effect from noon today to 11 PM MDT Tuesday. The Fire Weather Watch is no longer in effect. * AFFECTED AREA...Fire Weather Zone 413 Caribou Range/Caribou NF and Fire Weather Zone 427 Goose Creek and Raft River Valley/Southern Sawtooth NF/Twin Falls BLM south of the Snake River. * IMPACTS...Lightning and or strong outflow winds could create critical fire conditions. * THUNDERSTORMS...Today, a mix of wet and dry scattered thunderstorms with some rainfall over one tenth of an inch possible. Isolated thunderstorms are expected overnight and Tuesday morning, before becoming scattered in the afternoon with increasing potential of heavier rainfall tomorrow. * OUTFLOW WINDS...Winds over 35 mph. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly based on these criteria for Southeastern Idaho: - Relative humidity at or below 15 percent and wind gusts of at least 25 mph in the mountains, or 30 mph in the Snake Plain. - Thunderstorm coverage of 25 percent, without specific rainfall criteria. - Other high impact events deemed critical by the National Weather Service and area fire management agencies. &&
(ST. JOSEPH, Mo.) City leaders calling our Covid-19 situation worrying.

St. Joseph council members and staff are moving forward with a plan to save off a potential crisis.

A group of city leaders, health experts and staff met Wednesday afternoon to strategize how to get more people vaccinated before the Delta variant rips through St. Joseph the way it did Springfield, Mo.

City leaders met to work out how best to move forward and marshall resources as the battle against Covid-19 escalates.

"Friends that I have who are adamantly against masks and adamantly against vaccines are contracting COVID and it's putting a hammer to them, City Councilmember Kent O'Dell said.

St. Joseph city leaders are zeroing in on how to stop the current Covid trend before any more people get sick, or worse, die.

"It's a battle and we are never going to get out of this until everyone contributes and does something about this, ODell said.

186 Buchanan County residents already lost their lives to Covid-19.

Mosaic's lead doctor called to tell leaders that another three were lost this week.

"Most of the people, the 51 people in the hospital, were not vaccinated and one of the doctors told me a story of a gentleman who had a double lung transplant. Who said he survived, thank god. Who said afterwards I wish I had got vaccinated, St. Joseph Mayor Bill McMurray said.

City leaders are concerned things are going south.

The Springfield area is barely holding on as the Delta variant and low vaccination rates cripple interventions.

"We don't want these numbers to turn us into another Springfield where we fill up the hospital and send people to Kansas City and St. Louis if we even have beds available there, McMurray said.

St. Joseph suffers from the same issues that brought southwest Missouri to its knees.

On Wednesday, the city council, staff and health experts say we are going to have to vaccinate ourselves out of this.

"We are in a very serious position right now. This is no time for an ideological debate. The science is on the side of the vaccine, McMurray said.

Right now about one in five county residents have at least one shot.

To convince the other 80 percent, the health department is holding clinics at businesses and organizations.

"We intend to do as many as we can to get as many people vaccinated as we possibly can, St. Joseph Health Dept. Director Debra Bradley said.

Some of the biggest players in town, Mosaic, the city and school district, promising to ramp up outreach to employees and families.

"We were contacted by the St. Joseph School district asking if we would partner with them in providing vaccine at the back-to-school nights, Bradley said.

The city is also planning an advertising blitz to fight back against the myths running rampant on social media.

"There's so much misinformation that people are passing around that is totally invalid and it's not the truth and it's not science and it's not medicine, O'Dell said.

With those battle orders, the meeting ends and the vaccination blitz begins.

"Let's get this thing taken care of before more people die, McMurray said.

If you have concerns or want to talk about whether getting the vaccine is right for you, experts say call your healthcare provider, primary care doctor or nurse to get advice.

For information on how to schedule a Covid-19 vaccine through Mosaic Life Care, CLICK HERE.

For a list of information about the vaccines provided by the Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services, CLICK HERE.
(MARYVILLE, Mo) Northwest Missouri State University is awarding its students who get vaccinated $20,000 worth of incentives.

"Like who doesn't want free money, free food, or whatever else they're offering," said Northwest Junior, Kaylin Byland.

"We believe that we are going to be able to help people protect their own health, the health of those they love, and protect the kind of traditional college experience that all of us want to have this fall," said the Assistant Vice President for Health and Well Being at Northwest Missouri State University, Chris Dawe.

With students returning to campus in August, and the rise of COVID cases in Missouri.

Campus officials believe that this was a good time to come out with the vaccine raffle, and students say they have already started entering into the drawing.

"A few of my Northwest friends and I have actually talked about this and they have said they have already entered their names into the system on getting these prizes or scholarships," said Byland.

Some of the prizes Northwest is offering include; 1 $5,000 scholarship, 4 $2,500 scholarships, and even money for food and books.

"I was obviously pretty excited because there are these huge scholarship opportunities for not only just like one person but for many people," said Byland.

Northwest will have three drawings in the Fall, August 1st, August 18th, and September 13th.

While other Universities nationwide make vaccination mandatory for students and staff, Northwest doesn't have it mandatory, but the drawing is a way to give back to those students who make that decision.

"I absolutely believe this will drive more students to get vaccinated," said Byland.

"I mean that's part of this right, we want to be able to give back to our students who are doing the great thing that's gonna help all of us have a great campus experience," said Dawe.
Edwards: 50% of La. adults have at least one COVID shot
A Texas Department of Public Safety officer is seen on a boat while patrolling the U.S.-Mexico border, Tuesday, March 23, 2021, in Mission, Texas. A surge of migrants on the Southwest border has the Biden administration on the defensive.
BILLINGS- Police say that on Wednesday, an elderly man was killed in a house fire at the Casa Village subdivision on the Westend of Billings.

KULR-8's Riley Nagel was on scene and spoke with officers.

Neighbors reportedly rushed in to try and save the man but were unable to.

Billings Fire was on scene and able to get the fire, which was in the back end of the trailer, put out quickly.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.
HELENA, Mont. - Governor Greg Gianforte declared a statewide wildland fire emergency in Montana Wednesday, July 14.

Montana faces critical fire conditions that pose significant threats to our communities, infrastructure, first responders, and way of life, Gov. Gianforte said in a release from his office. As our firefighters battle active fires across the state with more to come, this executive order helps ensure they have the suppression resources, supplies, and fuel they need to safely and aggressively respond.

According to the office of the governor, 1,400 fires have covered a total of 141,000 acres in Montana as of July 14. Executive Order 12-2021 is a response to severely dry and hazardous wildfire conditions throughout the state and scarcity of firefighting resources.

The governor's office said the executive order will help Montana get resources firefighters need to fight fires, which includes the ability for the governor to deploy the Montana National Guard to help with suppression efforts.

The executive order will help local and volunteer firefighters get relief. Additionally, the governor is allowed to request the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, a national mutual assistance program with other states to share resources amid emergencies or disasters.

Im urging all Montanans and visitors to our state to do their part. Follow local fire restrictions, prepare your homes and communities for wildfire, and recreate and work safely to ensure youre not adding to our wildland firefighters workload by inadvertently starting a wildfire. Our dedicated, courageous first responders are depending on us all, the Gov. Gianforte said.
MISSOULA, Mont. - With much of the state already experiencing smoky skies this summer, air quality experts are warning folks to get into gear for what's expected to be a long season.

One Missoula non-profit is working to ensure everyone has access to clean air.

Climate Smart Missoula is asking for donations in order to get folks air filters and box fans who may not be able to afford it.

It's part of a new partnership with the Missoula Food Bank.

The donations will go to families who are part of the Kids EmPower Pack Prgoram, which helps kids stay healthy when school isn't in session, as well as home-bound seniors who rely on delivery from the food bank.

Using the food bank is free and confidential. Clients are asked questions for statistical purposes and then can receive a pre-packed shopping cart.

The air filter program started after Climate Smart Missoula received a grant, but now interns are working on providing even more to the community through donations.

"If we can get those to the folks who need them, that is just where we need to be as a community," Amy Cilimburg, Climate Smart Missoula executive director, said. "It's really exciting to work with the food bank. How much we are able to partner and how many fans and filters we are able to get out really depends on this community."

The executive director added by giving people ways to prepare and clean their air, it can reduce their stress for what is shaping up to be a long fire season.

To donate, click here. For more resources on managing smoke in your home, click here.
MISSOULA, Mont. - DNA results confirm that the bear killed by wildlife officials on Friday, July 9, was the same bear who killed a camper in Ovando on July 6.

The DNA samples from the bear, saliva sample at the scene of the attack and samples from two chicken coops that were raided in the area all match up, according to a release.

Since Montana is bear country, recreationists can be bear aware by following guidelines:

Carry bear spray and be prepared to use it

Avoid surprise encounters by traveling in groups, making noise and being aware of surroundings, particularly in areas with limited sight lines and recent bear sign (tracks, scat and turned over rocks and logs)

Keeping a clean camp by securing attractants, keeping food securely stored

Find a list of bear-resistant containers on the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee's website at www.IGBCOnline.org

For more information on bear aware guidelines, you can visit FWPs Bear Aware webpage.
WASHINGTON, JUL 15 - Two bodies were found Wednesday in the former villa of late design great Gianni Versace in Miami Beach, Florida, now a hotel, local sources said. The bodies were found by cleaning staff. Police have yet to make a statement on the case. Exactly 24 years ago, on July 15 1997, Versace was killed at the entrance to the villa by serial killer Andrew Cunanan. He was 50. The villa has since been turned into a luxury boutique hotel. (ANSA).
MANTUA, JUL 15 - A 50-year-old Italian man on Wednesday night stabbed to death his 75-year-old father after a row in an apartment at Ostiglia near Mantua, local sources said. The man, Lorenzo Prandi, called an ambulance to try to save his father's life but it was too late. Mario Prandi had already died from numerous wounds to his chest and abdomen, inflicted by a kitchen knife. Lorenzo Prandi was arrested for murder. The man, who has two children and is separated from his wife, went back to live with his father a year ago after losing his job as an IT technician. The reasons for the row are as yet unknown. (ANSA).
BRUSSELS, JUL 15 - The European Commission on Thursday referred Italy to the European Court of Justice saying it was not complying with certain obligations on the exchange of information relating to transborder cooperation on the fight against terrorism and crime. These norms, the EC recalled, "are a fundamental tool in the fight against terrorism and crime and enable us to exchange information rapidly on DNA, digital fingerprints and national data on the registration of vehicles, enabling authorities to identify suspects and establish links between criminal cases in the whole Union". (ANSA).
ROME, JUL 15 - Alitalia's new incarnation, Italia Trasporto Aereo (ITA), will be fully operational from October 15, after the positive conclusion of talks with the European Commission, the economy minister said Thursday. The first flights of the new slimmed-down airline will leave on that date, it said. Transport Minister Enrico Giovannini said "With Ita a new important Italian airline is born, with significant growth prospects, and which will be able to compete on the national and international market". (ANSA).
BENEVENTO, JUL 15 - A 78-year-old Italian pensioner died trying to save his dog from falling into a well on his farm Thursday, local sources said. Police said Antonio Circelli fell into the well himself after trying to save the animal, a thoroughbred hunting dog. The incident happened at Montefalcone di Val Fortore near Benevento in southern Campania. Circelli started rearing and breeding hunting dogs after he retired, police said. (ANSA).
ROME, JUL 15 - Alitalia's new incarnation, Italia Trasporto Aereo (ITA), will be fully operational from October 15, after the positive conclusion of talks with the European Commission, the economy ministry said Thursday. The first flights of the new slimmed-down airline will leave on that date, it said. Transport Minister Enrico Giovannini said: "with ITA a new important Italian airline is born, with significant growth prospects, and which will be able to compete on the national and international market". ITA will start out with a fleet of 52 aircraft, which will go up to 78 in 2022 with the arrival of new-generation aeroplanes, according to the new company's industrial plan. The fleet will further increase to 105 aircraft by the end of 2025, including 81 new generation aeroplanes (77% of the fleet) to reduce the airline's environmental impact and boost efficiency. This year ITA will have 2,750-2,950 employees handling the aviation activities, a number that will go up to 5,550-5,700 by the end of the plan in 2025. The company will also introduce a new labour contract aimed at giving it greater flexibility and competitiveness. It aims to break even by the third quarter of 2023. The loss-making former flag-carrier has been in extraordinary administration for years and the pandemic made its plight even worse. The European Commission asked Rome to show there would be "discontinuity" to give the green light to the launch of ITA, a new State-controlled company. A European Commission spokesperson said Brussels will "remain in close contact with the Italian authorities to ensure that the launch of ITA as a vital, new market player is in line with the EU laws in State aid. "Italy has reassured the European Commission that, at the end of the Alitalia operations, passengers' rights will be protected," the spokesperson added. (ANSA).
ROME, JUL 15 - Populist 5-Star Movement (M5S) founder Beppe Grillo and the movement's anointed new leader, former premier Giuseppe Conte, made peace Thursday over lunch at a restaurant owned by the stand-up comic near Livorno on the southern Tuscan coast. A recent bust-up between the two had threatened to split the movement. Grillo posted a picture of the smiling pair on Facebook saying "Now let's think of 2050!" Grillo and Conte said Sunday they had patched things up and reached an agreement on a new statute for a revamp of the anti-establishment group, heading off the risk of a split. In a joint statement, they said the movement would adopt new, effective instruments for the future up to 2050, with "clear legitimate leadership" of the group. M5S members will get to vote on the changes once the details have been finalized. Conte had agreed to lead a revamp of the M5S after his second coalition government collapsed at the start of the year. Although he was considered close to the movement, he had not previously been part of it. But the Conte-led revamp was close to running aground at the end of last month when the ex-premier and Grillo engaged in a war of words. Conte accused Grillo of being autocratic after the latter said that the ex-premier lacked political vision and managerial ability. This led to speculation that Conte could form a party of his own with the support of many of the M5S's lawmakers. The ex-premier, 56, and Grillo reportedly fell out over changes to the movement's statute, including possible changes to the ban on its elected representatives serving more than two terms, and over the role that the 72-year-old founder would have. The comedian-cum-politician is currently the 'guarantor' of the movement. The Internet-based movement was only founded in 2009 but it fast won support among people disaffected by Italy's traditional parties and it was the individual group that won most votes in the 2018 general election. It has now been part of three coalition governments though and, with the compromises that come with being in power, a signification chunk of its support has fallen away recently. (ANSA).
Oregon Democrats, who took Republicans to task for walking away repeatedly, say the situation in Texas is fundamentally different. Republicans disagree.
Our view: What should mask policy be for schools in the fall?
ELKHORN  The Elkhorn area has been no stranger to tragedy this month. Anthony Griger, 22, was killed during an apparent carjacking in Racine County on the morning of Tuesday, July 13. Ten days earlier on the night of July 3, 22-year-old Haley Nicole Robers of Elkhorn died unexpectedly in an auto accident in northern Wisconsin.

According to a news report from the Wausau Daily Herold, a woman was driving a vehicle northbound on State 13 near Park Falls. She lost control of the vehicle and the vehicle overturned near the intersection of State 13 and Simon Road, according to the Wisconsin State Patrol.

She was born September 23, 1998 in Burlington, WI, the daughter to Christopher and Christine (Fleming) Robers. Haley graduated from Elkhorn Area High School in 2017 and from Gateway Technical College with an Associates Degree in Marketing Communications in 2019. Since Haley was a senior in high school, she enjoyed being a team member at Brogan & Patrick Mfg. Corp. where she worked as the Head of Shipping. Haley loved spending time with her family and friends and was always willing to help out those she cared about. She enjoyed the great outdoors, whether she was hunting, kayaking, ice fishing, or just adventuring. She was always looking to experience another 1st for Haley, such as running a demo car, flying in a hot air balloon, or taking on a new task at work.
Gee said Davis started serving as a docent during the time he was president of the museum board, and he thought Davis would be a quality member of the board.

I thought this guy would be a perfect candidate for a board position. As luck would have it, we had a vacancy on the board, Gee said. As soon as I found out he had an interest in the museum, we had him as a board member immediately and he served on the board from that point on.

Ewing said Davis always made his tours interesting for museum guests and enjoyed sharing information about Lake Genevas history.

Museum visitors that were lucky enough to have Jim as their docent had an interesting and enriching tour going back in time, and they certainly got their moneys worth, Ewing said.

Gee said Davis took the time to learn about every exhibit as much as possible. He said Davis enjoyed taking visitors around the museum and talking about each exhibit.

If you wanted to spend the time at the museum, he could spend a couple of hours with you walking through and telling you something relevant about every exhibit in the museum, Gee said. He was probably one of the most knowledgeable people at the museum.
During the 1920s and 1930s, chrome items were referred to as poor mans silver. Never mind that some of it was made in the art deco decades by some of the most important designers of the era.

From decorative accessories to everyday kitchen objects, it brightened the homes of young couples who couldnt afford sterling silver and was a favorite wedding gift. In those days, most items cost only a few dollars. However, many pieces of decorative furniture, such as tables and light fixtures made by important designers, were pricey.

Historically, chrome was first made by the Chase Brass and Copper Co. in Waterbury, Connecticut. Authentic pieces are marked with a stamped figure of a centaur.

These chrome pieces entered the consumer market in the 1930s. They were first offered in the Chase specialty catalog in 1937. Not only did most pieces sell for $1 to $3, but they were designed by Russel Wright, Norman Bel Geddes and Rockwell Kent.

The famous Manhattan serving set, in the shape of a skyscraper, was designed by Bel Geddes. His cocktail shaker with eight cups and a tray originally was priced at $16.50. These days, it could sell at auction for over $3,000. Russel Wrights double-tube vase is currently dealer-priced at $4,500.

Industrial designer Walter Von Nesen worked for Chase designing many figural items, such as elephant book ends. A humble ash tray designed by him can sell nowadays, dealer-priced, for $575.

Many pieces of decorative furniture combined chrome with glass. Gilbert Rohde designed many small pieces, such as side tables and consoles. Currently, a 1930s console table is dealer-priced at $3,999. Donald Deskey, another important designer, used chrome for a variety of objects, such as lighting fixtures. He is also famous as the designer of the interior of the Radio City Music Hall.

Ruth Gerth (1897-1952), a rare woman working for Chase with chrome, is known for her glow lamp. It is archived in the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum.

Some industrial items made for home use were portable heaters with art deco designs or portable heaters by Sunbeam. They were of cast iron and chrome.

Popular these days, if you can find them, are pins, necklaces and bracelets that combine chrome and Bakelite.

By 1935, there were many makers of chrome items ranging from ice buckets to cocktail shakers. Most popular with collectors these days are the often whimsical shapes of cocktail shakers. Among them are a dumbbell, rooster and airplane. The airplane, by an anonymous maker, has sold for over $4,000.

Among other companies making chrome objects by the late 1930s were Revere, Kensington and Manning-Bowman. A popular item with collectors is the Superlectric Toaster made in the 1930s by Superior Electric Products in St. Louis. It combined chrome with red Bakelite handles and was a take-off of the streamlined locomotives of the 1930s.

What to Look For

The art deco look can be recognized by stylized elements using geometrical forms, zigzags and chevrons. For its futuristic look, artists used vertical lines and geometric shapes, circles, squares and repetitive patterns. The Chrysler Building in Manhattan is a good example of using these elements. Bold colors were mixed with silver, black and chrome.

Beginning collectors should know there are many reproductions. They should also know the names of the many top designers, the types of pieces they designed, and the firms they worked for.

Judge a chrome piece by the quality of the design. Does it have the stylized look of the 1920s and 1930s? Is it rare? A good example of rarity would be any chrome objects designed by Rockwell Kent for Chase. He only designed three items. Condition is important since so many pieces are still around. If the object has plastic trim and handles, be sure it has no chips and cracks. If there are glass liners, they should be in mint condition.

A piece doesnt have to be made by Chase to be worth collecting. Other firms hired name designers, too. Collectible chrome was also made in Sweden, England, France and other countries.

With the advent of World War II, when metals were needed, chrome was replaced by aluminum. It has made a comeback with new and interesting objects, as future collectibles.
To walk through Zarqa, the rundown industrial heart of Jordan and its second largest city, is to see the countrys problems in miniature.

Here, cars roll carefully over potholed roads, while pedestrians pick their way around garbage that municipal cleaners clear every so often. On the citys outskirts, industrial waste and sewage gather in a foul-smelling, black-colored pit locals have dubbed The Pepsi Pool.

Weve gotten used to sewage, to garbage.  All this has become routine, one public schoolteacher living in Awajan, a drab, low-income suburb of this city, said in an interview Thursday.

And they still want more taxes? said the soft-spoken Sameh Hyasaat, 36.

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Hyasaat was referring to a controversial tax bill that has become a symbol of what many have called a policy of impoverishment exercised by the government against the countrys working class.

That sense of anger and injustice, exacerbated by a series of austerity measures, drove tens of thousands into the streets of Jordan last week.

Protesters celebrate as Jordans new prime minister, Omar Razzaz, announces withdrawal of a disputed tax reform in Amman, Jordan, on June 8, 2018. (Andre Pain / EPA / Shutterstock )

King Abdullah II, the countrys monarch, not only canceled the increases but also dissolved the government of now former Prime Minister Hani Mulki.

By Thursday, the newly appointed prime minister, Omar Razzaz, pledged that his Cabinets first act would be to withdraw the troublesome tax bill.

But the victory is a temporary reprieve: With state coffers running on empty, and faced with a bloated public sector as well as pressure from its creditors, the consensus is that Razzaz can do little more than delay the unpopular measures that felled his predecessor.

It seems we are trapped, said Jawad Anani, an economist who had served as the countrys deputy prime minister for economic affairs in past governments.

Nowhere are the economic ills plaguing Jordan more apparent than in Zarqa.

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Asked about the citys financial health, Khaled Othman, the office manager of Zarqas mayor, winced before delivering a recitation of complaints.

We have a debt of almost $50 million. Our annual budget is $46 million. The deficit and the debt means we cant offer most services, he said.

The municipality had pared down expenditures, canceling funding for cultural clubs and national celebrations, while directing money at critical issues such as street repair and cleaning. Still, its barely enough.

Meanwhile, Othman said, 88% of the municipal budget goes for salaries.

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The law mandates we spend no more than 50, maybe 55% at the most, he said. But we employ 4,800 people here. And I can tell you, we dont need two-thirds of them.

Not all of Jordans problems are self-created; many are a function of its neighborhood.

When the Arab Spring uprisings first began in 2011, Jordan seemed primed to share the same fate as Tunisia, Egypt, Libya and Syria, where long-entrenched governments fell before chaotic revolutions.

But the kingdom remained stable even as Syrians, fleeing the war raging in the country, streamed across the border into Jordan by the hundreds of thousands.

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Still, the regional strife kept tourists away, and merchants lost their traditional export routes through Syria and Iraq.

Jordan also was squeezed by the loss of its traditional sources of support.

In the past, the kingdom, an arid country with few resources, had relied on the largesse of both the U.S. and Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia. The U.S., which views Jordan as a top regional ally in the fight against Islamic State, had upped its grant to the kingdom to more than $6.4 billion earlier this year.

But Jordans refusal to join Saudi Arabia in its war in Yemen, and reported differences regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, meant that no money was forthcoming from Riyadh.

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Meanwhile, the size of the countrys debt, in proportion to its economy, skyrocketed by more than 30% by the time Mulki came to power in 2016.

He tackled the slide toward insolvency by overseeing a series of unpopular moves, including the lifting of subsidies.

Fuel prices have inched upward and now are 50% more expensive than in the United States. Electricity costs are up 55%, and the price of bread has doubled. The hikes made Amman the Arab worlds most expensive city in 2017, according to the Economist magazine.

Jordanians buy secondhand shoes in an open-air market in central Amman on June 8, 2018. (Ahmad Gharabli / AFP/Getty Images )

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The proposed tax increase was another component in a series of fiscal reforms imposed by the International Monetary Fund, which in 2016 gave Jordan a three-year line of credit worth $723 million.

It aimed to lower the minimum taxable income, more than doubling the number of people subject to taxes. But it proved to be one measure too many. Protesters from the countrys middle and lower classes came together in a rare display of anger.

Led by 30 labor unions, people called for the laws withdrawal. They raised signs reading #Manaash, meaning, We dont have [money].

When Mulki refused, the protests called for the governments dissolution, though they stopped short of calling for the downfall of King Abdullah.

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Despite the victory celebrations, the anger persists. In Zarqa, it is easy to see why.

With less than a week until the end of the Muslim holiday of Ramadan, markets normally would be flooded with shoppers. Not so this season, said Yasser Qadri, 35, the owner of an electronics shop in Zarqas downtown district.

People have no money. Theres no movement in the market. Normally you couldnt even find a place to stand, but look around, he said, giving a dismissive wave around his empty shop.

Abdullah Hyasaat, Samehs 29-year old brother and a former policeman who now works as a merchant, agreed.

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You tell me about Syria, that we dont want to become like them with a revolution? Here, its worse than Syria. We have security, yes, but everything else is worse, he said.

Many complain about government corruption, an endemic problem that costs Jordan vast sums. Growth, meanwhile, has stagnated, stubbornly hovering around a meager 2% to 3% since 2011.

The IMFs demand for fiscal reform is untenable, Anani said.

You cant reconcile ... fiscal reform and growth, he said, adding that he hadnt seen a single new company appear on Ammans stock exchange for almost a decade.

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The countrys only hope, Anani said, is to negotiate a new deal with its creditors, putting them off while focusing on restructuring and development, not fiscal reform.

On Thursday, the IMF said it would work with Jordan on a review of its loan program.

What wont work, Anani said, is putting extra burdens on people. We need to change the model. It wont work any other way, he said.

On Saturday, a glimmer of hope appeared. The Saudi royal court issued a statement saying it would join Kuwait, the UAE and Jordan in a summit in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, on Sunday.

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King Salman, the court said, called the meeting to discuss means of supporting Jordan to overcome its current crisis.

Bulos is a special correspondent.

Twitter: @nabihbulos
Many people question if they should get a tax lawyer, but it's hard for them to find an answer. A tax attorney isn't only necessary if you have a dispute with the CRA, they can help you whenever you need their expertise.

Hopefully, by the end of this article, you'll have the answer to your question. Below you'll find tips to help you if hiring a tax lawyer is something you need to do.

Sooner Rather than Later

Doing taxes isn't something many people enjoy, but if you think you might need the assistance of an attorney, it's better to contact them sooner rather than later. Waiting too long to get advice decreases the amount of help a lawyer can provide.

Though these services are often more expensive than that of certified specialist taxation experts, advice from an attorney has proven to be beneficial. They can save you money and prevent costly fixes in the long run. A good lawyer will work well with the other advisors on your team. It won't hurt to reach out to an attorney, and they'll let you know if they can help or refer you to someone who can.

Sometimes a Lawyer is Needed

Accountants are tax experts who help people with their services. Tax lawyers are also experts in their field, but they aren't a replacement for an accountant. A certified specialist should be the first person you go to with tax questions.

If you have a question that's out of your accountant's expertise or is legal, they'll sometimes contact a lawyer on your behalf for assistance. Some accountants have certifications in tax planning that give them similar training to tax lawyers. For this reason, many people wonder what the difference is between a tax lawyer and an accountant.

The Differences

Tax attorneys need to understand tax laws and blend in different legal areas that often intersect, such as insurance, litigation, wills and estates, property, and trust, to name a few. At the same time, accountants don't have the same legal knowledge. They often have limited expertise in this area and recognize when a lawyer is needed to fill in.

Tax Planning

Tax laws change often; some things that the CRA sanctioned in the past are no longer allowed. Since tax lawyers keep track of changes in these laws, they can help you and your advisors understand what the CRA finds to be abusive or aggressive so that your advisors can make a plan to get you tax-efficient results.

Planning to minimize your taxes isn't an aggressive strategy. In Canada, you're encouraged to take advantage of deductions and credits. The government understands peoples' needs for flexibility in their affairs, so there are many tax-free transfers available that aren't considered aggressive. However, the worst plan you can have is no plan at all. A tax lawyer can give you advice for your plan that can include some of the following:

Update and view your estate documents regularly

Organize your finances to complement your life and business goals

Meet with your accounting advisors to see if you qualify for any deductions or credits

Review your circumstances with your lawyer to see if there are any revisions needed

Bringing in a Litigator

Some attorneys will help you with litigation matters representing you in front of different levels of government, courts, and tribunals. Tax litigators will represent you before provincial and federal courts if the CRA is assessing you. Like a lawyer, it's best to consult a tax litigator sooner rather than later. They have the expertise to help you with any disputes by saving you money on expensive litigation and possibly keeping you out of the courtroom.

Conclusion

You should seek help for any tax problem you have as soon as possible. These problems won't go away on their own, and possible solutions decrease the longer you wait. Reach out to a professional for any tax matter and planning.
Former U.S. President George W. Bush dubbed the withdrawal of U.S. and NATO troops from Afghanistan a mistake, adding that there will be "unbelievably bad" consequences.

Bush said in an interview that Afghan women and girls would "suffer unspeakable harm" due to the decision, according to a Fox News report.

U.S. President Joe Biden's administration is set to start evacuation flights in late July for Afghans who have helped the U.S. military and diplomatic missions. Biden announced earlier this month that all U.S. forces will be retreating from the country by August 31.

Bush went on to say that people in Afghanistan are just going to be left behind to be slaughtered and it breaks his heart.

The former president said he did think sending back home the troops are needed. He noted that he is also concerned about the space the U.S. will leave in the country once it has completely withdrawn.

Bush said that the decisions have already been made and he hopes it is the right decision.

Bush launched the war in Afghanistan after the 9/11 attacks. This was part of his efforts to fight the Taliban-run government, as well as targeting al-Qaeda, according to an NBC News report.

It has also become America's longest war.

READ NEXT: Pres. Joe Biden Snaps at Reporters Asking Afghanistan Questions Instead of July 4th; Jen Psaki Says People Are 'Overreading' His Responses

Ending U.S. Presence in Afghanistan

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has also vowed to end the presence of the United States in Afghanistan. Biden had followed suit, according to a Voice of America News report.

Republicans have opposed Biden's troop withdrawal, but a poll shows that the American public approved of the idea.

Biden defended his decision to bring the troops home, saying that the U.S. did not go to Afghanistan to "nation-build."

The president noted that it is the Afghan people who have the right and responsibility to determine how they want to run their nation.

He added that nearly 20 years of experience has shown them that fighting in Afghanistan is not a solution, but a way to stay there indefinitely.

Withdrawing Troops from Afghanistan

Scott Miller has returned from Afghanistan on Wednesday. Miller is the top U.S. general in Afganishtan. He already handed over his command at a ceremony in Kabul, according to an ABC News Go report.

Operation Allies Refuge will relocate Afghan citizens who applied and are eligible for a special immigrant visa. Those individuals and their families will be relocated to a secure third country.

However, it is not yet clear how many of these translators and guides will be moved and exactly where to.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said that their goal is to get individuals who are eligible to be relocated in advance of the withdrawal of the troops. The administration has not specifically said when the flights will depart due to security concerns.

Meanwhile, Biden said that there is a home for the women and men of Afghanistan in the United States if they choose.



Reports said that Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan have been all considered as third-country options. A second official list includes the United Arab Emirates and Qatar.

Around 18,000 Afghans have applied for Special Immigrant Visas, with many fearing for their lives as the Taliban gain more districts against the Afghan government.

READ MORE: U.S. Military Launches Airstrikes Against Iran and Syria, Targets Militia Groups Behind Drone Attacks on U.S. Personnel

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Written by Mary Webber

WATCH: Taliban advance as international troops withdraw from Afghanistan - from DW News






Johnson & Johnson (J&J) is recalling five of its Neutrogena and Aveeno sunscreen products after low levels of benzene were found in samples.

USA Today reported that benzene is a chemical that can cause cancer with repeated exposure. The company announced the recall on Wednesday, July 14. It advised consumers to stop using the products.

The said products are Aveeno Protect + Refresh aerosol sunscreen and four Neutrogena sunscreen versions, namely Beach Defense aerosol sunscreen, Invisible Daily Defense aerosol sunscreen, UltraSheer aerosol sunscreen, and CoolDry Sport aerosol sunscreen.

According to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) website, these products are sold in aerosol cans, and the recall includes all can sizes and all levels of sun protection factor (SPF). The products were distributed nationwide through retailers.

J&J said it is working on getting all of the products removed from store shelves. The company is also encouraging consumers to call 1-800-458-1673 to get a refund, NBC News reported.

READ NEXT: Ohio Mom Details How Daughter Ended up in Wheelchair After Pfizer COVID Vaccine Trial

What is Benzene?

Benzene is a colorless, flammable liquid and quickly evaporates when exposed to air. It is usually produced from natural processes like volcanoes and forest fires.

The chemical is also considered to be among the 20 most widely used chemicals in the United States. It is used primarily as starting chemicals in making other chemicals such as detergents and pesticides, according to the American Cancer Society.

Benzene is also known to cause cancer based on evidence from studies in both people and lab animals. It has been linked to leukemia and other cancers of blood cells.

Rates of leukemia are higher in studies of workers exposed to high levels of benzene, particularly those in chemical, shoemaking, and oil refining industries.

It is also classified as carcinogenic to humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a part of the World Health Organization (WHO).

IARC said that benzene exposure had been related to acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), multiple myeloma, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

In a statement, J&J said the use of products would not be expected to cause adverse health consequences, adding that they decided to recall the said Neutrogena and Aveeno sunscreen products out of caution.

Johnson & Johnson COVID Vaccine

The FDA recently announced a new warning for J&J's COVID vaccine, saying that the developer's vaccine has been linked to a serious but rare autoimmune disorder.

Reports of Guillain-Barre syndrome have been detected in about 100 of those who received the vaccine, CNBC News reported. The syndrome symptoms mostly appeared in males who are 50 years and older two weeks after their shot.

Guillain-Barre occurs when the body's immune system attacks parts of the nervous system. It is a rare neurological disorder.

Meanwhile, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC), Pfizer and Moderna's COVID vaccines do not show a similar pattern.

J&J said it has been in discussions with the FDA and other regulators about the disorder. The company noted that the chance of having the syndrome is very low, with the rate of reported cases exceeding the background rate by a small degree.

READ MORE: FDA Cautions Public on Autoimmune Disorder Guillain-Barre Related to Johnson & Johnson

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WATCH: CDC Raises New Concerns Over Johnson & Johnson Vaccine - From CNBC Television






A housekeeper found two dead men inside a room of the former Versace mansion, where the infamous assassination of Gianni Versace took place.

Daily Mail reported that the two dead men were discovered Wednesday afternoon, July 14, nearly 24 years after the famous Italian fashion designer was killed outside his palatial beachfront home.

The Miami Beach police and the Miami Beach Fire Rescue personnel responded at the heinous crime scene in The Villa Casa Casuarina Hotel at Ocean Drive in Miami Beach.

READ NEXT: TikTok Star Naim Darrechi of Spain in Hot Water Over Condom, Unprotected Sex Remarks

Two Dead Men Found at the Former Versace Mansion

Local 10 reported that the bodies of the two dead men, who have yet to be identified by authorities, were discovered by the housekeepers past 1 p.m., the Miami Herald reported.

At this time, the scene is contained to the hotel room and detectives have launched a death investigation.  Miami Beach Police (@MiamiBeachPD) July 14, 2021

After a housekeeper reported the incident, the Miami Beach Police tweeted less than an hour later that the scene was contained in a hotel room, and detectives launched a "death investigation."

Authorities said the two men died from gunshot wounds. But it was not clear when did they checked in the former Versace mansion. It was also unclear whether the recent killing was in some way connected to the assassination of Gianni Versace.

The former Versace mansion was made in the 1930s by a Standard Oil heir. Gianni Versace was known to have lived in the mansion part-time for five years after he bought the property in 1992. The mansion was sold to VM South beach in 2013 and reopened as a high-end boutique hotel the next year.

Gianni Versace at the Former Versace Mansion

The discovery of two dead bodies in the former Versace mansion happened on the eve of the 24th anniversary of Gianni Versace's death at the hands of Andrew Cunanan.

Andrew Cunanan, a former male prostitute-turned-serial killer, shot Gianni Versace on the front step of his mansion in Florida on July 15, 1997.

According to Biography, an eyewitness of the crime said that Versace's blood was "coming out like crazy." The witness, identified as Eddie Bianchi, further noted that Gianni Versace shook a little bit then stopped moving.

Eight days after the assassination of the renowned couturier, Andrew Cunanan was reported to shot himself with the same gun he used to kill Gianni Versace. Daily Mail reported that Cunanan was known to be wanted for the murders of four other men.

Gianni Versace was the fifth and final individual killed by Andrew Cunanan before his passing. Versace's funeral was held in Milan, Italy. It was attended by different socialites and fashion icons such as Giorgio Armani, Sir Elton John, and Princess Diana.

READ MORE: Anya Taylor-Joy and 5 Other Latin Artists Nominated on Emmy Awards 2021

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Written By: Joshua Summers

WATCH: 2 Men Found Dead in Room at Former Versace Mansion - From WPLG Local 10
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) officials said Wednesday, July 14, that they busted a key international drug and money-laundering hub in Las Vegas.

The top federal prosecutor and the FBI chief in Las Vegas said the investigation started six years ago and has involved around 30 other countries.

Associated Press reported that the investigation became public after the recent arrests of six people. The suspects were arrested in Nevada, Arizona, California, and Washington on conspiracy, drug, and money-laundering charges.

Acting U.S. Attorney Christopher Chiou and Aaron Rouse, special agent in charge of the FBI Las Vegas office, said these charges resulted from a global joint investigation titled "Operation Money Maker."

U.S. officials worked with representatives of law enforcement agencies in Colombia, Costa Rica, Canada, Australia, Israel, the United Kingdom, and Romania to probe a crime organization.

READ NEXT: 18 Dead After Gunmen Storm City Near U.S.-Mexico Border

Suspects in the Drug and Money-Laundering Operations

Those arrested in the operations included Barak Amar from Las Vegas. He allegedly conspired with others to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine, KTNV reported.

He is indicted on one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance. He was also charged with the distribution of the said substance, with a possibility to spend 60 years in prison.

Other suspects include Arshak Arayan, who was indicted on the same case as Amar. He was from California. Ofir Frieden from San Jose, California, was indicted on 45 counts of money-laundering, eight counts of conspiracy to distribute, and 10 counts of distribution. Frieden could be in prison for 80 years for the said charges.

Djekem Kedoshim from Seattle, Washington was charged for writing a business check to co-conspirators. Kedoshim was indicted on one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and four counts of money laundering, with a possibility of spending 40 years in prison.

Meanwhile, Moshel Malka and Shine True face a possible total of 40 years in prison for conspiring with others to deposit illegal cash proceeds and writing checks to co-conspirators.

FBI Dismantles the Las Vegas Hub

The FBI chief in Las Vegas said they did not base their operation and investigation on casino-related cases. Rouse also said that millions of dollars were involved, but he would not specify the amount, U.S. News reported.

Rouse further noted that the dismantled drugs-and-money operation supports "trans-national" criminal organizations. He said the arrest of the six suspects and "dozens" of others in other places would cripple these criminal groups.

However, the FBI chief in Las Vegas did not provide the exact numbers, places, or details of the said cases. In 2010, the U.N. Office on Drugs and Crimes estimates that yearly illicit funds were more than $2 trillion worldwide.

Meanwhile, proceeds generated in the United States were totaled around $300 billion, according to the FBI's website. Money laundering is a technique wherein launderers integrate their dirty money into the financial system.

Once criminal funds have entered the financial system, it won't be easy to track and trace the money due to the layering and integration phases.

READ MORE: California Man Laundering Money for Mexican Drug Cartel Gets Nearly 5 Years in Jail

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Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: 2 Las Vegas Men Among 6 Facing Federal Charges in Drug, Money Laundering Case - From 8 News NOW Las Vegas






Cuba's internet came back and revealed scenes of the government's crackdown on protesters following the mass protests that erupted on Sunday, July 11.

The internet access came back on Wednesday, July 14, after the country was left disconnected from several social media and messaging platforms, The Washington Post reported.

The Cuban government enacted an internet blackout after the historic protests on Sunday, July 11. It has restricted access to social media and messaging platforms, including Facebook.

Executive Director of Human Rights Watch, Ken Roth, condemned the social media blockages, calling it a sign of "out of touch government."

"The sign of unpopular, out-of-touch government; the first thing it does when mass protest erupt is to cut access to social media, hoping to prevent people from talking to each other," said Roth, who linked an article on his tweet.

The sign of an unpopular, out-of-touch government: the first thing it does when mass protests erupt is to cut access to social media, hoping to prevent the people from talking to each other. Good luck with that. Today's Cuba. https://t.co/eSyFxKZrou pic.twitter.com/KO2fILsCeq  Kenneth Roth (@KenRoth) July 14, 2021

RELATED ARTICLE: Cuban Protesters Flood Streets to Demand End to Communist Dictatorship

Social Media Reveals Scenes of a Crackdown in Cuba

As the social media and internet access returned in Cuba, images and videos surfaced online, revealing Cuban police officers breaking into Cuban's homes and arrest suspected demonstrators, The Washington Post reported.

NBC News cited famous Cuban YouTuber Dina Stars, who was detained by the authorities during a live interview on a Spanish television news show.

Stars was reportedly talking about the protests when she stopped the interview and said that police forces began knocking on her door.

On Wednesday afternoon, she tweeted that she was back home after being detained for 24 hours.

"Yes, they treated me well, but it's still a night that I do not wish on anyone," Stars noted.

Yo llegue a mi casa despues de estar 24 horas en un calabozo como si fuera criminal. Si, me trataron bien, pero igual es una noche que no le deseo a nadie. Llegue y me encontre con la noticia de que me botaron como una perra, bueno a mi no, a mi mama y mis amigos que estaban   Dina Stars  (@Dinastars_) July 14, 2021

Raisa Emilia Gonzales Cantillo was still waiting for her son Angelo Troya to be released. According to The Washington Post, Troya, an artist and photographer who helped film a part of a music video for "Patria Y Vida," has been detained since he participated in the Cuban protests on Sunday.

Gonzales noted that the detention of her son "destroyed" her. She added that they do not have the internet to inform the world what's happening to their country.

San Isidro Movement member Anamely Ramos Gonzales claimed that repression could not only be seen in the protests but also in the homes.

"The Internet blockages were so intense that we haven't been able to confirm the deaths, but we know there are deaths," Gonzales said.

To date, the Cuba protests only reported one death and leaving several demonstrators and security officials injured. Meanwhile, the lawyers' group Cubalex estimated that about 200 people or more were detained or missing.

Cuba Permits Travelers to Bring Essentials Without Paying Customs

As the Cuba protests continue, Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero announced on Wednesday, July 14, that travelers arriving in the country can now bring in food, medicine, and other essentials without paying their customs, AFP reported.

The announcement came after one of the protesters demanded that people arriving in Cuba would be able to bring in food, medicine, and personal hygiene items from abroad without paying customs duties.

Cuban demonstrators were angry about the country's economic hardship marked by food shortages and lack of electricity and other essentials.

Under Cuban law, travelers were only allowed to bring up to 22 pounds of medicine tax-free, carry limited food amounts, and must pay customs duties.

Starting Monday, July 19, Marrero noted that the limits are lifted, and so are the duties, and it will continue until the end of the year.

READ MORE: Tampa Mayor, Florida Officials Support Cuban Protesters; Claim Cubans' Ancestors Helped Build Their Community

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Written by: Joshua Summers

WATCH: Police Patrol Cuban Streets After Rare Protests - From Bloomberg Markets and Finance
The federal government of Mexico has now confirmed the existence of a Gulf Cartel clandestine human incineration site near the Texas border.

Five years after the discovery of the site, the head of Mexico's National Search Commission, Karla Quintana Osuna, confirmed the human incineration site in the area known as La Bartolina in Tamaulipas.

Osuna said the federal and state prosecutors have worked for five years in processing the land, located in Matamoros, about 12 kilometers from Brownsville, Texas, Elefante Blanco reported.

She noted that from 2017 to May 28, more than 500 kilograms of charred bone fragments and ashes had been recovered from the site.

Osuna said the Tamaulipas government initially searched the area in 2017, and after two years, Mexico's Attorney General, along with the National Search Commission, took over the operation.

The Gulf Cartel human incineration site was discovered in April 2016 by elements of the National Defense Secretariat and the State Attorney General's Office.

The said area was allegedly operated by the Gulf Cartel since 2009, according to federal information. The drug cartel members reportedly took the people they abducted to the site, where they tortured and murdered them, and their bodies were then cremated and buried.

READ NEXT: Gun Battle Between Rival Mexican Drug Cartels Left 8 People Dead

The Discovery of Gulf Cartel's Human Incineration Site

In 2016, Mexican authorities discovered a series of human remains in a covert gravesite less than 100 yards away from the Texas border. Members of the Gulf Cartel reportedly used the site to dispose of bodies.

Earlier, law enforcement officials would not comment on the number of human remains or the conditions they were found in, a 2016 Breitbart News reported.

Mexican authorities have also not released any official information about the said gravesite. Mass exterminations and incinerating of bodies have been a common practice inside Mexican drug cartels.

The Los Zetas cartel was also reported to have kidnapped and incinerated hundreds of victims from the rural communities in the Mexican border state of Coahuila.

In 2017, neighbors of the Revolucion Obrera neighborhood complained of foul smells and had suspicions that a house was being used to burn bodies.

Authorities arrived at the site and discovered that it was a cartel crematorium, according to a 2017 Breitbart News report. Some of the human remains were only superficially incinerated, while other bodies were mostly turned into charred ashes.

The discovery of the human remains comes amid the rival factions of the Gulf Cartel's fight to control the city. Gulf Cartel kidnapped lookouts, foot soldiers, and street-level dealers. The victims are often tortured and murdered, with their bodies being dumped in a shallow gravesite or are incinerated.

The Gulf Cartel

The Gulf Cartel is considered to be one of the oldest and most powerful criminal groups in Mexico. However, the group has lost territory and influence over the years due to its rivals. Its rivals include its former enforcer wing, which is the Zetas, Insight Crime reported.

During its most powerful term, the drug cartel was led by its kingpin Osiel Cardenas Guillen, who was considered to be the country's most powerful leader.

Meanwhile, the Zetas were considered to be the most feared gang. The cartel's origin started in 1984 when Juan Garcia Abrego took over the drug trafficking business. It was only a small-time marijuana and heroin operation at the time. The Northeast Cartel is now the most important faction of the Zetas.

READ MORE: Video Shows Jalisco Cartel Parading' Narco-Tank' in Mexico's Street

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Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: Mexico's Cartels Are Deadlier Than Ever Despite the Pandemic - From Vice News






An Oklahoma mom was arrested and charged with child abuse after her two children called their father and told him that she was punching, kicking, biting, and throwing knives at them.

The father called the police and reported the incident. He said that Sheila Marie Riggie, 32, has a drinking problem, adding that her behavior has been getting more extreme, according to a Crime Online report.

The father noted that he filed a report with the Department of Human Services. However, he said that no action was taken regarding the matter.

He added that he rescued the 11- and six-year-old boys when they told him that Sheila Marie Riggie had threatened to cut their throats. Aside from her children, the Oklahoma mom was also abusing her kids' 11-year-old cousin, according to a News 9 report.

READ NEXT: Florida Babysitter Kills 3-Year-Old Boy and Leaves a Note Telling Mom Her Child Drowned in Bathtub While Having Seizure

Oklahoma Authorities Responding

An officer responded to the father's call and visited the home at NW 41st Street in Oklahoma City on Wednesday night, July 14. The father told police that Sheila Marie Riggie has been beating, biting, and choking the boys.

Meanwhile, neighbors said they would hear yelling from time to time, but they never thought of any abuse occurring inside the home.

Neighbor Teejay Adams said they heard the commotion, but they did not think it was to that extent. The children had visible injuries, according to police reports.

An officer noted that one child had a swollen eye from being punched in the face. The kid also has a cut on his back and chest.

The child said that the Oklahoma mom had attempted to stab him with a screwdriver. On the other hand, the second victim had a bite mark on his cheek and forehead.

MSgt. Gary Knight with OCPD said all three children were turned over to the father as part of being taken into protective custody, according to a Scallywag & Vagabond report. It is still unclear why the government agency that the father had previously complained to failed to intervene.

The Oklahoma mom was taken into custody and booked at the Oklahoma County jail for child abuse. The father of the children said that the kids are now healthy and doing better.

Child Abuse

According to the World Health Organization fact sheet, around 300 million children between the ages of two and four regularly suffer physical punishment and/or psychological violence at the hand of their parents or caregivers.

One in five women and one in 13 women reported being sexually abused as a child. In addition, there are an estimated 40 to 150 homicide deaths in children under 18-years-old every year.

In an armed conflict and refugee setting, girls are exposed to sexual violence, exploitation, and abuse by combatants and security forces. They can also be abuse by members of their communities and aid workers.

Child abuse can cause stress associated with hindrance in early brain development as stress can impair the development of the nervous and immune systems.

As adults, abused children are at increased risk for behavioral, physical, and mental health problems such as depression, obesity, smoking, high-risk sexual behaviors, alcohol and substance abuse, and unplanned pregnancy.

READ MORE: Dunkin' Employee in Florida Punches, Kills Elderly Customer Over Racial Slur Confrontation

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Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: Child Abuse in the COVID-19 Era - From American Academy of Pediatrics






The U.S. Senate passed a bill that will ban China's Xinjiang products in the United States. Reuters reported that the said legislation called "Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act" was passed in the Senate chamber on Wednesday.

The said bill was passed by unanimous consent. However, the legislation would need to pass the House of Representatives before it goes to the White House, where President Joe Biden signs it into law.

READ NEXT: Kamala Harris Backs Texas Democrat 'Fugitives' Who Fled to Washington to Block GOP Voting Restrictions

Senate Approves Bill That Will Prohibit Xinjiang Products

Axios noted that the "Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act" was introduced by Republican Senator Marco Rubio from Florida, with Democratic Senator Jeff Merkley from Oregon.

"Today, Senate is sending a clear message that the United States will not be complicit in the Chinese government's genocide of Uyghur Muslims," Senator Merkley said in a joint statement with Senator Rubio.

The said bill would go beyond the steps the U.S. already took to spare the U.S market in the face of allegations of rights abuses in China, including the existing bans on tomatoes, cotton, and solar products from Xinjiang, China. Merkley noted that Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in the region were forced into labor, tortured, and even imprisoned.

"No American corporation should profit from these abuses. No American consumers should be inadvertently purchasing products from slave labor," Merkley said.

Meanwhile, Senator Rubio urged the lawmakers to pass on the bill immediately.

"We cannot afford any further delay, and I call on my colleagues on House to promptly send this bill to the president," Senator Rubio noted. Rubio also underscored that they will not turn a "blind eye" to the China Communist Party's crimes against humanity.

"We will not allow corporations a free pass to profit from those horrific abuses," Rubio added.

As the bill rolled in the chambers of the Congress, Reuters reported that Democratic and Republican aides said that they expected the measure would get strong support in the House of Representatives, arguing that the House passed a similar measure nearly unanimous in the previous year.

U.S. Warns Businesses Linked with Xinjiang to Violate U.S. Law

Recently, the U.S. government issued an advisory warning businesses with supply chains and investment in Xinjiang, China, have a high risk of violating U.S. laws regarding forced labor.

Free Radio Asia noted that the advisory was addressed to businesses, individuals, and other persons such as investors, consultants, labor brokers, and academic institutions. Furthermore, the advisory noted that these stakeholders should be "aware" of the legal risks of their involvement with entities or individuals linked to Xinjiang.

U.S Trade representative Katherine Tai lauded the advisory, saying that the action of the current administration demonstrated the commitment of the U.S. to end the forced labor globally.

An investigation mentioned by Axios revealed that in the past three years, the government of China forced hundreds of thousands of Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in Xinjiang to perform seasonal labor in the cotton fields of the region. Furthermore, workers were reported to fear that they will be sent to detention camps if they do not participate. Axios also noted that these workers are also underpaid.

READ NEXT: DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas Warns Migrants From Cuba, Haiti Not To Flee to U.S. Amid Unrest

This article is owned by Latin Post

Written By: Joshua Summers

WATCH: New Evidence of Uighur Forced Labor in China's Cotton Industry - From BBC News
Key Takeaways

The Hajj is a pilgrimage taken part by the Muslims at least once in their life time.

It is believed to give them salvation and is taken to the holiest place for them, which is in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

The Hajj comprises of various rituals that they have to follow, which are done in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim.

Prophet Mohammed was the first to go to Mecca and restore the worship of Allah.

India has enacted the Hajj Committee Act to provide rules and regulations and lend a supporting hand to the Muslim people for their Hajj.

Hajj is a practice followed by Islamic people from all around the globe and Europe is considered to be global centre for Hajj.

Origin

Hajj is the pilgrimage of the Islam religion. The practice has been going on for centuries. Though the exact story of origin has not been witnessed by anyone but the story of the origin has been discussed and passed down from generation to generation.

The origin story dates back to the 2000 B.C. when Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his wife Hager got stranded in the desert and their infant son, Ishmael, was close to death due to thirst. The Angel Jibril (Gabriel), seeing the desperation of the parents, came down to Earth and created a spring of fresh water. The spring is known as the Well of Zemzem. Ibrahim after that followed the instructions of the God and built a monument on the very place of the spring which is called the Kaaba.

In the 630 A.D., Prophet Mohammed travelled there with a group of Muslims and re-dedicated the place in the name of Allah. This was the very first official Hajj. The path taken by Mohammed is retraced as a ritual of Hajj which also includes Hagers walk between Safa and Marwa, stoning Satans wall, an animals slaughter to remember the sacrifice made by Ibrahim for saving his son.

Speciality of Mecca

Hajj pilgrimage is taken to Mecca. Mecca is the birth place of Prophet Mohammed and it is where he received the first revelations. It has been considered as the heart and spiritual centre of the Islam. It is considered as the centre of Earth by the Muslims.

Prior to Islam, it was an important site for pilgrimage of the Arab Tribes of North and Central Arabia. The tribes came there for worship once a year to worship Allah, even though they believed in many deities. It was an important commercial centre as any kind of violence was forbidden within Mecca and this helped in flourishing trade. After Prophet Mohammeds revelation, the worship of one God was restored and it came to be known as the holiest city for the Islamic people.

Rituals of Hajj

The pilgrimage takes place in the designated last three months of the Muslim calendar known as Miqat Zamani. The main act though starts in the last 5 days of the last month, but the starting can begin for pilgrims in the tenth month itself. The pilgrims travelling by road come across Kufa (Iraq), damascus (Syria) and Cairo (Egypt) whereas, pilgrims travelling by sea have to enter Arabia via the Port of Jedda. It also includes the nearby sites of Arafat, Mina and Muzdalfah as holy sites for pilgrimage.

The Hajj has an elaborate ritual starting with tawaf which includes walking around the Kaaba seven times in an anti-clockwise direction. The rituals are carried out by the people since ages and it could be extremely dangerous leading to robbery or serious health issues of the pilgrims. It also led to death at times but dying on Hajj was expected to lead the pilgrims to heaven. Due to the modernization, the pilgrims now travel on plane to Saudi Arabia which makes the journey safer and quicker.

Pilgrims arrive in Arafat, a desolate and plain place 20 kilometres east of Mecca, on the third day before midday, where they stand in thoughtful vigil, offering supplications, repenting and atoning for past misdeeds, seeking God's mercy, and listening to the discourse from Islamic experts. On the fourth day, the pilgrims throw seven pebbles at each of Mina's three pillars from midday to dusk. The "Stoning of the Devil" is what it's called.

Finally, before leaving Mecca, pilgrims conduct the Tawaf al-Wadaa, a farewell tawaf. The pilgrims make seven counter-clockwise circles around the Kaaba, attempting to touch or kiss the Kaaba if they are able.

Hajj Committee in India

The city of Bombay has a long history with the Hajj. During British rule and before, Muslims travelled to Mecca by the sea route, beginning their holy journey in Bombay's seaport. The Hajj Committee, Bombay, was established in 1927, according to the data available. The President of the Hajj Committee, Bombay was then-Commissioner of Police Mr. D. Healy, Esq., and important Muslim Public Representatives were members. The Hajj Committee of Bombay conducted its first formal meeting on April 14, 1927.

The Port Hajj Committees Act of 1932 was passed on October 1, 1932, to form committees in the major ports of pilgrim traffic to aid Muslim pilgrims to Hedjaz. It called for the formation of a Calcutta Port Hajj Committee and a Bombay Port Hajj Committee.

The Port Hajj Committee of Bombay continued to function till April 1939, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police of Bombay. Mrs. Khadija Shuffi Tyabji was chosen President of the Port Hajj Committee in Bombay on April 4, 1939.

Until 1959, the Port Hajj Committee in Bombay provided required services to pilgrims on their way to Hajj. The Hajj Committee Act of 1959 (No.51 of 1959) was passed on the 17th of December, 1959, to establish a Committee in the Port of Bombay for helping Muslim Pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, Syria, Iraq, Iran, and Jordan, as well as things related thereto.

Mr. Mustafa Fakih was the first Chairman of the Hajj Committee, which was established under the Hajj Committee Act of 1959. Passenger ship travel has dwindled as a global phenomena. People began to travel by air. Air travel was eventually introduced for Hajj Pilgrims as well. Until 1994, approximately 5,000 Pilgrims travelled by ship from the Sea Port of Bombay to perform Hajj, and another 19,000 Pilgrims travelled by air. However, beginning in 1995, Hajj Pilgrims who travelled by sea were no longer permitted to do so, and all Hajj Pilgrims were required to travel by air.

It was no longer required for all Hajj Pilgrims to travel to Bombay after the introduction of air transport. Other Embarkation Points were gradually added. Year after year, the number of Embarkation Points increased.

With the addition of more and more Embarkation Points, Hajj management has become more diverse. The Hajj Committee of India felt it was vital to have appropriate representation from all regions of the country. As a result, the Hajj Committee Act of 2002 (No.35 of 2002) was passed. It envisions all sections of India being represented in the Hajj Committee of India.

Hajj around the Globe

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the United Kingdom, helped sponsor the British Hajj Delegation in 2000 to provide consular support and medical services to British citizens on the ground in Saudi Arabia. Despite the fact that France is nominally secular, the French government maintains a consulate in Jeddah to assist French citizens performing the Hajj. The most recent consul, Lewis Blaine, a convert, did most of his work on a motorcycle, zipping around Mecca and the holy places assisting French citizens.

Russia, which has the highest Muslim population of any European country with 14 million Muslims, has done the most to support its citizen-Hajj pilgrims. Russia's Muslims have had subsidised flights to Jeddah during the Hajj season on Aeroflot, the state carrier, since the early 2000s, thanks to the Putin regime. Visas and transportation are arranged by a state-run Hajj liaison office.

After annexing Crimea from Ukraine last, Russia offered Crimean Tatars large Hajj subsidies ($1000 per person, approximately a third of the cost of an economy package tour) in a clear attempt to foster their loyalty toward Moscow rather than Kiev.

Hajj in Europe

By the end of the nineteenth century, Europe's imperial powers had colonised much of Asia and nearly all of Africa, as well as enslaved the majority of the world's Muslims. (Only Persia, Afghanistan, and the Ottoman Empire survived European colonialism among the world's Muslim states.) Each of the great imperial powers of the day, the British, Dutch, French, and Russians, ruled over more Muslims in their empires than any one sovereign Muslim state in the decades leading up to World War I.

For the first time in history, the Hajj came under European influence and control as a result of colonial dominance in Muslim-majority areas. The Meccan pilgrimage had been done almost exclusively under the patronage of Muslim rulers, via Muslim-ruled regions, and with the assistance of Muslim officials along the way since its eighth-century origins after the establishment of Islam. Non-Muslims could not enter the Holy City of Mecca, which was (and still is) confined to Hajj pilgrims.

Muslims made the Meccan pilgrimage under the aegis of Islamic empires before the era of worldwide European conquest. The Mamluk, Mughal, and Ottoman imperial governments all invested a lot of money to help Hajj pilgrims make the long and often dangerous trek to Mecca by land and water routes.

As Hajj benefactors, the Ottomans were perhaps the most ambitious. They supported imperial Hajj caravans along important land routes to Mecca every year. By the early 1800s, these were massive gatherings of people and animals, led by military escort, and involving as many as 50,000 pilgrims.

The Ottomans reinforced desert routes between Damascus and Cairo to Mecca, building fortifications, wells, and cisterns along the way to protect the caravan from bandit attacks and to manage the Hajj traffic under their supervision.

In the sixteenth century, things began to alter slowly. As Europeans made their way into the Indian Ocean and sections of Asia, they seized Muslim-majority areas and took direct control of extensive stretches of traditional Hajj routes. In the nineteenth century, as European empires increased, so did their interest in and participation in the Hajj.

By the turn of the century, the majority of Hajj pilgrims arriving in Mecca were colonial subjects. Due to the global mobility revolution that European imperialism had also delivered, they arrived in unprecedented numbers as many as 300,000 each year.

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When Benjamin Ndubuisi came to Loughborough University London to study from Nigeria in 2015 he found he was faced with a problem. It was difficult to transfer currency quickly and securely from home to the UK.

He set about innovating to address the issue and a brand-new secure currency exchange platform, VING.AI was the result. It is specifically designed to support the African community exchange funds with fellow Africans.

The monetary exchange takes place via an escrow engine, allowing individuals to find a match and safely exchange currency at mutually agreed rates.

Benjamin explains:

For example, Mr Kayode who works in KPMG in London can exchange 1000 with Mrs Chukwu in Nigeria, whose daughter is doing a degree in Newcastle. VING.AI achieves this by receiving both payments into local currency escrow accounts. Once both funds are received, they complete the transaction. Currencies from both ends are crowdsourced and stay within the source country, avoiding international transfer wait times and high fees.

Earlier this year Benjamin received a Young Innovators Awards 2020/2021 from Innovate UK for his idea.

The award recognises young people from across the UK with great business ideas who have the potential to become successful entrepreneurs and future leaders in innovation.

The Young Innovators programme is a partnership between Innovate UK and the Princes Trust.

Benjamin received the award for his innovation.

Benjamin studied for an MSc Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management at the London campus. He currently works for British Telecom and continues to develop his currency exchange platform. He was one of five alumni who recently took part in an online panel event to discuss Innovation with the Universitys alumni community and current students.

Visit www.VING.AI for more information on Benjamins innovation.

Find out more about #LboroInnovation
Portland, TN (37148)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning followed by scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. High near 85F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies this evening will become partly cloudy after midnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 67F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
Harvey Weinstein and Georgina Chapman are officially divorced.

The disgraced movie mogul split from the 45-year-old fashion designer - with whom he has India, 10, and eight-year-old Dashiell - in October 2017, shortly after he was accused of sexual misconduct by dozens of women, and on 8 July, a judge signed the final order of divorce.

The 69-year-old producer - who is currently serving a 23-year sentence for rape and sexual assault and still has more charges to face - hopes the official end of his marriage doesn't impact on his children's happiness.

His spokesperson told People magazine: "Harvey's only thoughts are happiness for his family and the hope that his children are always cared for and happy. He loves them and hopes that they know it, and that one day soon, he can be closer to them."

The couple - who married in 2007 - had agreed a divorce settlement in January 2018, with Georgina receiving a settlement of around $15 to $20 million and primary custody of the children.

After announcing their split, the fashion designer - who is now dating actor Adrien Brody - told of her devastation for Weinstein's victims.

She said in a statement at the time: "My heart breaks for all the women who have suffered tremendous pain because of these unforgivable actions. I have chosen to leave my husband. Caring for my young children is my first priority and I ask the media for privacy at this time."

And Weinstein said he "supported" his wife's decision to leave him, though he was hopeful at the time they could reconcile one day.

He said: "I support her decision, I am in counseling and perhaps, when I am better, we can rebuild. Over the last week, there has been a lot of pain for my family that I take responsibility for.

"I sat down with my wife Georgina, who I love more than anything, and we discussed what was best for our family.

"We discussed the possibility of a separation and I encouraged her to do what was in her heart. I understand, I love her and I love our children and hopefully, when I am better, I will be in their lives again."
A number of people were sent forward for trial to the Circuit Court last week.

Ashley Fanton, 30, of 4 Bellview Court, Mountrath was sent forward for trial to Portlaoise Circuit Court sitting in Tullamore on Tuesday, October 26. She is charged with assault causing harm and producing an iron bar during the course of an assault at the Portlaoise Road, Mountrath on February 4,2020. One junior counsel was assigned and legal aid was granted to solicitor Barry Fitzgerald.

David Toland, 45, of 12 Oak Manor, Mountmellick was also sent forward to trial to the next sitting of the Circuit Court. He was sent forward on four counts of damage to property, making threats and possessing an axe in a public place at 14 Oak Manor, Mountmellick on February 7, 2021.

One junior counsel was assigned. Mr Toland is to abide by the bail conditions previously set by the District Court. A number of road traffic matters were adjourned to November 18 to await the outcome of the Circuit Court case.

Michael Soro, 43, of 31 Baymount Park, Clontarf is charged with alleged possession of drugs and possession for sale or supply at Portlaoise Garda Station on September 6, 2020. He was sent forward for trial to Portlaoise Circuit Court on October 26. One junior counsel was assigned.

Dean Fagan, 26, of 13 Swords Manor Drive, Swords, Dublin is charged with alleged burglary, and assault causing harm at Main Street, Portarlington on November 4, 2016. He was sent forward for trial to Portlaoise Circuit Court on October 26. One junior counsel was assigned.
A human rights activist and the opposition leader in Belarus which forced a Ryanair flight off course this year and who has strong links to Roscrea has been welcomed to Ireland by Laois Offaly TD Charlie Flanagan.

Dep Flanagan greeted Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on her arrival in Leinster House in his capacity as Cathaoirleach of the Dail's Foreign Affairs Committee.

Speaking before the meeting, Cathaoirleach of the Committee Charlie Flanagan TD said members are delighted to welcome Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya to meet with them as part of her visit to Ireland.

The situation in Belarus has been a priority for consideration by the Committee in 2021. Along with meeting with the Peoples Embassy of Belarus In Ireland earlier this year, the Committee also unanimously agreed a motion condemning the interception of a Ryanair flight by Belarusian authorities and called for the unconditional release and freedom of movement of Raman Protasevich and Sofia Sapega.

"Members of the Committee will continue to support the people of Belarus in their struggle to gain both democratic and human rights, said the Fine Gael TD.

She contested the 2020 Belarus Presidential election but incumbent Alexander Lukashenko was officially declared the victor in the election marred by allegations of widespread electoral fraud.

Subsequently, Ms Tsikhanouskaya claimed to have received between 60 and 70% of the vote. After the elections, she fled to Lithuania in fear of repercussions, which could have possibly affected her children.

Before running for president, Tsikhanouskaya was an English teacher. She spent many summers in Roscrea, Co. Tipperary, Ireland, as part of a programme for children affected by the Chernobyl disaster.

A Ryanair plane from Greece to Lithuania was diverted to Belarus for several hours on Sunday, with activists saying it was done to arrest a dissident journalist on board.
Numerous tributes have been paid to the late Hannah Delaney who has passed away at St James's Hospital in Dublin.

Knockbrack, Pike of Rushall in Laois was home for Hannah Delaney (nee Keaveny) until July 10 when she passed away at St James's Hospital, Dublin, in the loving care of the matron and staff.

The passing of the native of Moate, Co Offaly was met with great sadness when parishioners, community, friends far and wide as well as former colleagues at Portlaoise hospital learned of her passing.

Tributes poured in from Laois, Offaly across Ireland and as far away as New Zealand to a woman who was held in high esteem by the many who knew her.

Hannah was a dedicated midwife at Portlaoise hospital for many years. A tribute from the Maureen Revilles, Director of Midwifery at the Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise, recognised her contribution to the profession.

"She was a highly respected and regarded midwife who provided tremendous care and commitment to the countless women she cared for. There is a great sadness amongst her friends and colleagues at the Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise. Our thoughts and prayers are with you," she said on RIP.ie.

This was just one of the several tributes from staff and former colleagues of the deceased who knew here from the Laois hospital.

She was a popular lady in our community who helped out in any way she could. One such tribute came from Camross Comhaltas.

"She was one of life's treasures, kind, caring, and enriched all our lives with her enthusiasm for her role as Irish Officer and left no stone unturned when promoting our native language and went about it in calm and unassuming manner. Was always around to take part and help in any branch activities. May your gentle soul rest in peace and the angels has re united you with your beloved Bill in heaven," said the message from Crescentia Phelan Chairperson.

There were also tributes from the political world since Hannah was predeceases by her husband Bill who was serving councillor when he died in 2007. Cllr Delaney was elected in 2004 subsequent to being co-opted on the local authority due to the departure of Sean Fleming TD in 2003.

Minister Fleming and other councillors also paid tribute as did Laois Fianna Fail and other branches of the party including Ogra Fianna Fail of which William junior has been an active member.

"Hannah was a lovely lady always looking for the good in everyone," said Sean and Mary Fleming

Fine Gael representatives were among those pay their respects on RIP.ie

She is deeply regretted and will be sadly missed by her loving children, William, Grainne and Niamh, mother Kathleen, sisters Eilish and Dympna, brothers Vincent, Noel and John, brother in law, sisters in law, nieces, nephews, extended family, relatives, neighbours and friends.

Due to Covid 19 restrictions, the funeral took place privately (max 50 people in the church) on Wednesday, July 14 at St Edmund's Church, Castletown. She was laid to rest immediately afterwards in Churchtown Cemetery, Castletown.

People were invited to stand along the route to the church, in the church yard and in the cemetery. The Delaney and Keaveny families thanked people for their understanding and consideration at this sad and difficult time.

Condolences were offered in the online condolence book at RIP.IE
The death has occurred of Violet McDonald (nee Birchall)

Ballysax, The Curragh, Kildare



Peacefully, at Tallaght Hospital. Sadly missed by her loving husband Fay, her brother Jack, sisters in law, nephews, nieces, extended family, neighbours and friends.

May Violet Rest in Peace

Due to government advice a family funeral will take place. Removal from McWey's Funeral Home, Abbeyview, Kildare Town, on Friday to arrive at St. Brigid's Church, Suncroft, for Requiem Mass at 11am. Funeral afterwards to Holy Cross Cemetery, Suncroft. Violet's funeral Mass will be broadcast on 108FM. Those who would have like to have attended but due to the current restrictions of 50 people in the Church cannot, can leave their condolences below.

The death has occurred of John O'Mahony Adams

Coologmartin, Timahoe, Kildare



Formerly of Pitchfordstown Lodge, Kilcock. Former member of the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland. John, peacefully, in the loving care of his devoted partner Pauline & the wonderful staff of Naas Hospital. Predeceased by his father Sidney Adams and mother Nora (nee Mahony) Adams. Deeply loved and sadly missed by his partner Pauline, sister Margaret Wilkinson, family, relatives, many friends and neighbours.

May He Rest In Peace.

Due to government advice regarding public gatherings a private family funeral will take place (50 mourners) on Friday with Mass at 11 oclock in St. Coca's Church, Kilcock and can be viewed on https://www.kilcockandnewtownparish.ie/webcam/ followed by cremation in Glasnevin crematorium at 1:00pm, which can be viewed on https://www.dctrust.ie/location/glasnevin/chapel-webstream.html.

John's funeral cortege will leave his home at 10:20am on Friday morning en route to the church, friends and neighbours are very welcome to line that route in a safe and socially distanced manner as a mark of respect. Those who would have liked to attend, but due to current restrictions cannot, please leave a personal message for John's family in the 'Condolences' section below.

House Private.

Family flowers only please, donations, if desired, to the Irish Cancer Society.

The death has occurred of Brigid Doyle

Rathmore, Naas, Kildare



Doyle Brigid, Punchestown House, Rathmore, Naas, Co. Kildare. 12th July 2021. Peacefully in Craddock House Nursing Home, Naas, surrounded by her family. Loving wife of the late Ned and mother of Jack, Mary, Anna, Patrick, Edward, Paul, Richard, and Seamus. She will be dearly missed by her sister Pat Nolan, daughters in law, sons in law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, sisters in law, nieces, nephews, extended family, relatives, and friends.

May Brigid Rest in Peace

Funeral to the Church of Our Lady of Mercy, Crosschapel on Thursday arriving for 11.00 a.m. Funeral Mass followed by burial in Burgage Cemetery. Given the exceptional climate and to protect everyone who knew Brigid, the funeral mass for family (50 persons) only.

Those who would have liked to attend Brigids funeral, but due to restrictions cannot, may leave a personal message for the family on the condolence page below.

The death has occurred of Una HEYDON (nee McGrath)

The Paddocks, Naas, Kildare / Thurles, Tipperary



Late of The Paddocks, Naas, formerly of Dunstown, Two Mile House, Co. Kildare and Thurles, Co. Tipperary. Peacefully at Naas General Hospital on July 12th 2021. Beloved wife of the late Joe. Sadly missed by her loving sons Joe and Paddy, daughters-in-law Gillian and Ciara, grandchildren Grace, Danny, Christopher and Edie, brother Gerry, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

"May Una Rest in Peace."

Due to current Government guidelines regarding public gatherings, a private family funeral will take place on Thursday morning with a Funeral Mass at 11am in St. Peter's Church, Two Mile House followed by Burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Those who would like to join the private funeral service remotely by webcam can do so by clicking on www.naasparish.ie or via the Naas Parish App on the webcam folder.

Those who would have liked to attend the funeral, but due to current restrictions can not, please feel free to leave a message in the condolence page below.
A close knit community of South Africans living in Kildare are fearful for the safety of their relatives back home due to ongoing looting and rioting which has been going on since Sunday.

"My mother had to queue for food outside a supermarket for six hours today. There are elderly people that are queuing for hours, some of the lines are 5kms long. We are constantly on edge worrying about them. People are panic buying. People are driving out of their communities scrambling to find supplies and the roads are barricaded and other communities won't let them through because they are scared. The police are doing their best but they can't cope, they are outnumbered," explains Juanita Perumal, who moved to Ireland with her husband and children three and a half years ago.

Juanita, who lives in Naas, phones her parents on the hour to keep up to date with the situation.

Over 70 people have died since the violence erupted a day after former president Jacob Zuma, began a 15-month jail term on 8 July for refusing to testify to a commission probing corruption under his rule. Many saw Zuma as a champion of the poor and were dismayed at the court decision. Protests soon led to looting as people decended on stores with many buildings and fuel stations burned to the ground. Supply chains have been hit hard and there are goods shortages.

The worst affected areas have been reported as KwaZulu-Natal province, including Durban, part of Johannesburg and Gauteng province.

"There is a lot of racial tension that has flared up," she adds.

She said one of her friend's husbands is a doctor, and he put out an appeal for food for the mothers of newborn babies in the hospital. Another person had moved to Ireland, but had all their belongings in storage in a warehouse which was burnt down.

"We are trying to help in anyway we can. Trying to organise food for people. Trying to get someone to check the warehouse where their possessions were stored. They are just hoping that their suitcase with all their photos will be found, they don't care about their other possessions, that's all their memories. You can't get them back. You feel so helpless."

Juanita points out that people can't get their medication and even the pharmacies have been targeted. She said a supermarket near her home, which employed 300 people has been destroyed.

"People are losing their jobs. So many places of work have been burned down."

"We left South Africa because we wanted to travel and Ireland was in the centre of Europe. In our hearts, we want to go back. I still believe in South Africa. There are still good people there. The politicians have let the country down, they promised people things would get better and it's got worse. The people who were poor still remain in poverty."
A newly married couple took time out from wedding celebrations to pay a special visit to a relative in Tullamore hospital.

Kenneth Moody and Patricia Murray were married in St Kevin's Church, Clonbullogue on Thursday, July 8 with the reception in the Bloomfield Hotel in Mullingar. They celebrated the day with their seven children aged 5-18.

Two days after the wedding, the couple donned their wedding attire to visit Patricia's cousin Orla Coss at the Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore.

To make sure Orla wasn't left out this time while she was in hospital, Orla's sister, Michelle Dunne, came up with the plan for the happy couple to get dressed up in the wedding attire and make a visit to the hospital.

Patricia said it was 'like winning the lotto' to get to visit her cousin Orla in hospital.

Orla (41) suffers from Multiple Sclerosis, also known as MS. She has spent the last six weeks in Tullamore Hospital battling septicemia.

"Orla loved weddings, she would never miss a family one," said Patricia.

"She used to do Irish dancing when she was younger, she always on the dance floor at weddings!".

The couple said it was an emotional day visiting Orla as they hadn't seen Orla in almost two years due to Covid-19.

"Orla has only been able to see her next of kin for months now, I really think it brightened both of our days!" said Patricia.

"The nurses said we were the first bride and groom to come into the hospital, they were coming up to see us," Patricia said.

Patricia and Kenneth are the first couple to celebrate a wedding reception during Covid times in the Bloomfield Hotel.

On getting married in a global pandemic, the couple found it a unique experience.

"It was hard getting married wearing the masks! We had planned on a party of 150, which was reduced to 50 with government guidelines. It was amazing though, everything was perfect to a tee," said Patricia.
A barrister has complained that the presiding judge in the trial of four men accused of abducting businessman Kevin Lunney is "rubbishing" an important part of the defence case and was "dismissive and contemptuous" in his tone.

Michael O'Higgins SC was cross examining fingerprint expert Detective Garda Ernie Frazer about blood marks inside a Renault Kangoo van when Mr Justice Tony Hunt interrupted to ask, "Where is this blood?" Mr O'Higgins asked the witness to leave and then told the judge that he wanted to "legally complain of the observation made by the court." He said the trial has to be conducted on evidence and that he, having read the book of evidence, is aware of things the judge is not.

Mr Justice Hunt told Mr O'Higgins, "there is no need to shout. Keep the anger level down." Mr O'Higgins said, "I'm not shouting" and added: "This is an important part of the defence case and you are rubbishing it. Can I suggest that you just sit back and listen to all the evidence rather than make comments in the middle of it to the effect that there is nothing in this?"

Mr Justice Hunt said, "I just want to know where the mark is," to which Mr O'Higgins replied: "Your tone in saying it was, in my submission, completely dismissive and contemptuous of it." When Mr Justice Hunt said anyone could listen back to the proceedings to hear his tone, Mr O'Higgins replied: "What won't be on that is the expression on your face." Mr O'Higgins described the judge's question as an "unfair comment on the evidence". The judge finished by saying: "I would like to know what the evidence is, all right, so get the witness back and move on."

A 40-year-old man known as YZ, Alan OBrien (40), of Shelmalier Road, East Wall, Dublin 3, Darren Redmond (27), from Caledon Road, East Wall, Dublin 3 and Luke OReilly (67), with an address at Mullahoran Lower, Kilcogy, Co Cavan have all pleaded not (NOT) guilty to false imprisonment and intentionally causing serious harm to Mr Lunney at Drumbrade, Ballinagh, Co Cavan on September 17, 2019.

Detective Garda Ursula Cummins told prosecution counsel Sean Guerin SC that on October 29, 2019 she examined a Renault Kangoo van that had been seized in Drogheda by gardai investigating Mr Lunney's abduction. She said Dr Edward Connolly of Forensic Science Ireland had examined the Kangoo for blood and directed her to take swabs for DNA testing from specific areas of interest.

Under cross examination the detective agreed with Mr O'Higgins, for YZ, that she first took swabs on October 29 before Dr Connolly had examined the van and then returned with Dr Connolly two days later. Mr O'Higgins asked her if it was "a surprise" that on her first examination she didn't notice the brown reddish marks that were later pointed out by Dr Connolly.

She said: "Not really, it's pretty grubby on the inside."

Det Gda Frazer told Mr Guerin that on October 29, 2019 he examined the same van for finger marks but found none. He told Mr O'Higgins that he "didn't see anything that looked like blood". It was at this point that Mr Justice Hunt asked: "Where is this blood?" prompting Mr O'Higgins to ask the witness to leave.

Earlier, Dr Muhammad Ashraf Butt of Cavan General Hospital told Mr Guerin that he examined Mr Lunney on October 25, 2019, more than one month after his abduction. The doctor noted a 7cm long scar from Mr Lunney's right ear to his cheek and a 10cm scar from his right ear to his jaw-bone where he had been slashed with a Stanley knife. Mr Lunney used a beard to hide the scarring but it was still partially visible, the doctor said.

He also had scars on his right upper arm, left wrist, an 8 cm long vertical scar on his lower chest and upper abdomen and a 13 cm scar on the left side of his abdomen. Scarring remained on his left lower leg where surgeons had inserted a nail from his knee to his ankle to repair a fracture to his tibia or shin bone. In the middle of the shin area the doctor noted a "bony swelling".

Mr Lunney also told Dr Butt that he did not sleep well for a time due to the pain and was "fearful of going out in public places."

Mr Lunney, a director of Quinn Industrial Holdings, has told the court that he was bundled into the boot of a car near his home and driven to a container where he was threatened and told to resign as a director of Quinn Industrial Holdings. His abductors cut him with a Stanley knife, stripped him to his boxer shorts, doused him in bleach, broke his leg with two blows of a wooden bat, beat him on the ground, cut his face and scored the letters QIH into his chest. They left him bloodied, beaten and shivering on a country road at Drumcoghill in Co Cavan where he was discovered by a man driving a tractor.

Dr Butt said doctors had also noted the extent of Mr Lunney's injuries when he was triaged at Cavan General Hospital on September 17. They noted multiple slash wounds to his face, bruising in various places, mild head injuries, pain and bruising in his right arm and pain in his right leg where an x-ray would later reveal the fractured tibia. The lacerations to his face included a 10cm long wound to the right side and two parallel 7cm long wounds to the left side. He was hypothermic and his attackers had poured bleach on him. Mr Lunney described his pain as "very severe, ten out of ten," the doctor said.

He required fluids and paracetamol, and morphine was administered both by injection and in tablet form. X-rays revealed an oblique, minimally displaced fracture to the tibia. The doctor said the fracture would have left Mr Lunney unable to walk and contributed to his hypothermia as it prevented him from finding cover when his attackers left him on a roadside wearing only his boxer shorts. The wounds to his face required 24 stitches and other face wounds were closed using glue. The surgery to his leg was carried out after he was transferred to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda. He was discharged on 24 September, seven days after the assault.

The pain took weeks to resolve, Mr Lunney told the doctor, and he suffered headaches and nausea for a time. The right leg had been "extremely painful" for at least ten days and then gradually improved. There was still pain in the right calf when the doctor examined it on October 25.

Peadar McKiernan told Mr Guerin that he sold an Audi A4 in August 2019 to a man accompanied by "Dublin Jimmy". The prosecution say Dublin Jimmy is Cyril McGuinness, now deceased, and allege that he organised the offences against Mr Lunney. Mr McKiernan viewed a still image of an Audi A4 that the prosecution allege was used by Mr Lunney's attackers. He said the Audi in the still "looks like" the car he sold but he couldn't be certain.

The trial continues in front of Mr Justice Hunt, presiding, with Judge Gerard Griffin and Judge David McHugh.
Some 115 family homes at Mullen Park in Maynooth will now be offered for sale to the public, rather than sold to an investment fund.

Kildare County Council will acquire a further 20 houses in the development for social and affordable housing, according to the Irish Times.

The first batch of properties are expected to be available this September, and are expected to start from around 400,000.

Kildare County Council had previously been in negotiations with the estate developer Keltston Properties to buy 140 homes in the estate - before the controversial news broke last May that UK-based Round Hill Capital planned to buy 135 houses in the estate.

North Kildare TD Reada Cronin of Sinn Fein welcomed the u-turn, saying "Im delighted that workers will be able to buy these family homes between now and 2022 and pay their own mortgages as opposed to those of the wealth-funds with their war chests."

She said that couples searching for homes had contacted her 'devastated' by news of the bulk sale of the estate to a property investment fund.
Organisers of the annual Lough Gill Hospice Swim have urged people to continue their generous support of local good causes, so charities can bridge funding gaps caused by the pandemic.

The swim is held every year in memory of 29-year-old Neill McGarry who died from cancer in October 2010. It has raised a massive 350,000 since its inception for the North West Hospice, which helps fund vital palliative care services.

A virtual event held last year raised almost 80,000.

This year the 10k swim, considered to be one of Irelands toughest outdoor charity swims, - takes place on Saturday, August 14, when the organising committee, including members of Neills family, will swim together in a special swim bubble on Lough Gill.

In tandem, because of continuing restrictions on public events, the organisers are again encouraging people to enter a virtual version of the Lough Gill Hospice Swim  where participants complete their own swim in their own time.

Members of the swims organising committee will formally launch this years event by staging a special 10k night swim in Lough Gill under a full moon at midnight on July 24.

Sam McGarry, Neills uncle, who will swim the event, explained:

Were calling it the Follow your last star swim. The ethos of the Lough Gill Swim is that nothing great is easy! and on Neills headstone there is a quote from a song he wrote that says, "Follow your last star".

We felt that this year, these two elements were a perfect fit. Neill saw the world for how small it was and saw the universe for how diverse it was.

The sense that nothing is easy applies not only to the swim that we organise but also to the fact that charitable events, and not just ours, need the publics support more than ever to help them maintain and support services that make a difference for people.

This year, we will continue to follow that star, in memory of Neill, to honour his memory, to support the hospice which is the most important service in our region, and which matters so much to so many people. Yes, nothing great is easy - but we are also urging people all over Ireland to support their own local charities and the inspiring differences that they make.

Sam is urging as many people as possible across the North West to take part in this years virtual swim, where participants can complete their swim in support of the August 14 event.

Of course, we would love to be able to run the event as normal and have many swimmers/kayakers but due to the restrictions and insurance, it is not possible.

As a result of the overwhelming success of the virtual swim last year, we have decided to once again, invite everyone to take part in the Lough Gill Hospice Virtual Swim. This year you can swim 10k or 2k in the weeks leading up to the main event on August 14.

The Lough Gill Hospice Swim is considered a real test of a swimmers abilities, mentally and physically, with the average swimmer usually taking 3.5 hours to complete the course. But this year, with the virtual swim, swimmers can swim 2km or 10km at their own pace.

Organisers say whether a person experiences cancer as a battle or a reluctant journey, one must find the guts and grit to take it on, one stroke at a time. "The 10k swim is tough, arduous, painful and long but the difference is that the swimmer's struggle is over in a matter of hours.

Like this demanding and challenging swim, the cancer journey is a grueling, painful, and exhausting experience that brings a host of thoughts and emotions including fear, apprehension, doubt, frustration, struggle, hope, discovery and for many gratitude, relief and recovery. Both journeys are slow and deliberate, with the companionship and support of family and friends as central to the experience.

On August 14, the event will start from Parkes Castle in Leitrim and end at Sligos Doorly Park. Registration for this years Lough Gill Hospice 2km and 10km Virtual Swim is open.

See here: https://endurancecui.active. com/new/events/75505333/forms? _p=96401145845919

Those who wish to participate can also contact the team on Facebook or Instagram @ loughgillhospiceswim where updates on training and fundraising can be found.
News outlets and local radio covering Co Leitrim should benefit from State support in a proposed alternative public service media charge to replace the outdated TV licence fee, local Fine Gael Minister of State, Frank Feighan has said

The proposal is one of the main recommendations in the Fine Gael submission to the Future of Media Commission following a detailed survey and analysis on the local media landscape nationwide by the party with feedback from almost 100 key stakeholders.

Minister Feighan said a cornerstone of the Fine Gael submission is strengthening and ensuring a successful future for regional newspapers, radio stations and media outlets serving their communities in Leitrim.

A strong media sector is a cornerstone of a well-functioning democracy. We have always been lucky to have such a sector in Leitrim, led of course by the long established Leitrim Observer who do their duty without fear or favour. But that sector is under severe threat and has been for some time. It needs more support, Feighan said.

Advertising and income sources are depleting, and online sites are taking content without reimbursing those who source it, while at the same time, throughout the Covid-19 public health emergency, the value of trusted news sources has never been more important.

Under the Broadcasting Act 2009, 7pc of the TV licence fee is diverted to a broadcasting fund which goes to the independent sector  through the Sound and Vision Scheme. This figure was just under 5.9m in 2021, while State run national broadcasters received 78m for the same period.

This system is no longer fit for purpose and it is time to recognise that this money should be raised in a new way.

Such a move would provide additional funds of 50m - 75m to be used to help move both State broadcasting and independent media to a sustainable future. With such a development, a new Media Commission could develop a set of strategic supports for media in Ireland.

One option for the commission would be to establish a hub for coverage of public activities like courts, local councils, small GAA underage games etc, which might not otherwise be reported, at considerable loss to the local community and the archives, Minister Feighan said.

I understand Leitrim councillors have raised this matter at recent local authority meetings and have written to Minister Catherine Martin supporting this type of proposal, I am hopeful Catherine Martin will strongly consider this document which very much supports what the councillors are calling for.

A diverse range of trusted local media sources is fundamental to our society. The content created by local media is essential to ensuring our communities continue to receive accurate, up to date and diverse news stories. We must act now to protect this valuable sector.

Other recommendations in the submission include:

- Continue existing business supports for the local media sector until the economic recovery is secured.

- Recognise the reach of local media and its reputation as a reliable and authoritative news source when evaluating what constitutes public service in the media sector and when Government is disseminating public information content.

-Develop a new, broader concept of what constitutes public service content in the media sector, acknowledging the way in which many sources of media outside the present supported segments provide a genuine public service to their communities, without which their fabric would be considerably weakened.

- Deploy the extra revenue generated by this new licence fee mechanism to support content across the entire media sector, with a range of supports to build capacity of journalism and to develop innovative content to be used on diverse platforms.

- Transpose the Copyright Directive in a manner which ensures a mechanism through which publishers are remunerated at an equitable rate for the use of their content, bearing in mind the very different market power of platforms and content providers.

Develop a verification mark for local media services to demonstrate reach and relevance and to instil confidence and trust among audiences.

- Fulfil the Programme for Government commitments to: publish the statutory report on the Defamation Act (2009), and progress, publish and enact the Defamation Amendment Bill - the aim of which is to achieve an appropriate balance of the right to ones good name and freedom of expression

The pandemic has shown us how important local news sources are for their readers and listeners. People rely heavily on trusted media outlets. To ensure this continues, they have to be supported by Government, Minister Feighan said.
Quinn Industrial Holdings director Kevin Lunney was still in pain, scarred and fearful of going out in public more than one month after he was abducted and assaulted, a doctor has told the Special Criminal Court.

Dr Muhammad Ashraf Butt of Cavan General Hospital examined Mr Lunney on October 25, 2019 and noted that he had a 7cm long scar from his right ear to his cheek and a 10cm scar from his right ear to his jaw-bone where he had been slashed with a Stanley knife on the previous September 17. Mr Lunney used a beard to hide the scarring but it was still partially visible, the doctor said.

He also had scars on his right upper arm, left wrist, and an 8cm long vertical scar on his lower chest and upper abdomen and a 13 cm scar on the left side of his abdomen. Scarring remained on his left lower leg where surgeons had inserted a nail from his knee to his ankle to repair a fracture to his tibia or shin bone. In the middle of the shin area the doctor noted a "bony swelling".

A 40-year-old man known as YZ, Alan OBrien (40), of Shelmalier Road, East Wall, Dublin 3, Darren Redmond (27), from Caledon Road, East Wall, Dublin 3 and Luke OReilly (67), with an address at Mullahoran Lower, Kilcogy, Co Cavan have all pleaded not guilty to false imprisonment and intentionally causing serious harm to Mr Lunney at Drumbrade, Ballinagh, Co Cavan on September 17, 2019.

Mr Lunney also told Dr Butt that he did not sleep well for a time due to the pain and was "fearful of going out in public places."

Dr Butt said doctors had also noted the extent of Mr Lunney's injuries when he was triaged at Cavan General Hospital on September 17. They noted multiple slash wounds to his face, bruising in various places, mild head injuries, pain and bruising in his right arm and pain in his right leg where an x-ray would later reveal the fractured tibia. The lacerations to his face included a 10cm long wound to the right side and two parallel 7cm long wounds to the left side.

He was hypothermic and his attackers had poured bleach on him. Mr Lunney described his pain as "very severe, ten out of ten," the doctor said.

He required fluids and paracetamol and morphine was administered both by injection and in tablet form. X-rays revealed an oblique, minimally displaced fracture to the tibia. The doctor said the fracture would have left Mr Lunney unable to walk and contributed to his hypothermia as it prevented him from finding cover when his attackers left him wearing only his boxer shorts on a roadside.

The wounds to his face required 24 stitches. Other face wounds were closed using glue. The surgery to his leg was carried out after he was transferred to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda. He was discharged on 24 September, seven days after the assault.

The pain took weeks to resolve, Mr Lunney told the doctor, and he suffered headaches and nausea for a time. The right leg had been "extremely painful" for at least ten days and then gradually improved. There was still pain in the right calf when the doctor examined it on November 25.

The trial continues in front of Mr Justice Tony Hunt, presiding, with Judge Gerard Griffin and Judge David McHugh.
A SPECIAL meeting of the Cappamore-Kilmallock municipal district featured a call for the cathaoirleach to resign but ended with the seven councillors in agreement.

It was called to discuss a submission to An Bord Pleanala on the elimination of Fantstown near Kilmallock and upgrade of Thomastown level crossings on the Dublin to Cork rail line. Cllr Mike Donegan read out a submission he prepared and sought support for.

Regarding Fantstown, he said locals concerns are: division of the parish including rural isolation; long delays; closure causing two cul de sacs and access for emergency services.

On Thomastown, he said there are safety concerns with the width of the road, which is not wide enough for two vehicles to pass safely and as this is a rural area there is significant movement of tractors and trucks.

The new junction planned for the Charleville - Kilmallock road (R515) needs to be reviewed as it will cause stacking of vehicles when turning off the R515 onto the new road. There has been a number of serious accidents including fatalities, read out Mr Donegan.

Cathaoirleach Martin Ryan stressed the importance of safety on the R515 and acknowledged the fact that Cllr PJ Carey did bring the crossings up under any other business at the last meeting. He said all the councillors have in their own capacity met with locals to discuss their concerns.

That is why we are here today to bring all that together and have unanimous support for this submission, said Cllr Ryan. Cllr Carey said at the last meeting he asked that all seven councillors would make a submission together and put on a united front. He said he got no support whatsoever from you (Martin Ryan) or your vice chair (Mike Donegan). I made a submission on my own.

Yet we are here today 24 hours before submissions close doing exactly what I previously called for. I think the way you as chair and vice chair purposefully excluded the other five councillors when meeting Thomastown residents last Wednesday is a disgrace. We should all have been included. We should do what is best for the community and not what is best for Fianna Fail, said Cllr Carey. He said the chair should be impartial and called on Cllr Ryan to resign.

In reply, Cllr Ryan said: Thank you PJ. I dont agree with you  end of story. Were here at this meeting to get united support for this submission. I had no call from you raising concerns about level crossings. I will try and do my best and ensure these meetings are run in a fair way.

Cllr Donegan said his involvement with the crossings goes back to 2009.

I was invited to a meeting and I went. I didnt know who was invited. I am asking for the support of local councillors to the submission, said Cllr Donegan. All seven backed it.
RBL Bank on Thursday said that it has entered into an agreement with Visa Worldwide to start issuance of credit cards on the Visa platform, the lender informed the indices. The bank also added that it will be able to issue the new cards after technology integration which is expected to take 8 to 10 weeks.

"Our bank's current run rate of approximately 1,00,000 new credit card issuances per month could potentially be impacted till such time that there is clarity from the regulator on issuing new credit cards on the Mastercard network or till the technical integration with Visa is complete," RBL Bank said in a regulatory filing.

RBL said that it awaits further information from Mastercard on RBI's supervisory action.

The Reserve Bank on Wednesday indefinitely barred the US-based Mastercard from issuing new credit, debit, and prepaid cards with effect from July 22 for its failure to comply with data storage norms. The ban takes effect on July 22. The RBI said its decision will not impact existing Mastercard customers.

Mastercard, a major card issuing entity in the country, is the third company to have been barred by RBI from acquiring new customers after American Express Banking Corp and Diners Club International over local data storage issue.

RBL Bank has around three million credit card customers and is the fifth largest credit card issuer in the country with a 5% market share, the bank said in a statement.

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Blue Origin personnel standing in as astronauts during Mission NS-15 pose in front of the New Shepard Crew Capsule after a successful mission on April 14, 2021.

Blue Origin has revealed the identity of the first paying customer aboard its New Shepard capsule, set to launch on Tuesday, July 20, and reach the edge of space. And it might not be someone you expected.

The lucky (and wealthy) winner of an auction for the seat is Oliver Daemen, an 18-year-old physics student who would set the record for youngest person in space. Daemen is the son of Joes Daemen, the CEO of Somerset Capital Partners in the Netherlands.

The elder Daemen was the runner-up in an auction for the ticket aboard the first crewed New Shepard launch. The winner paid $28 million, according to Blue Origin, but backed out of the inaugural flight due to scheduling conflicts. According to the private spaceflight company, that person will ride to space in a future Blue Origin flight.

Related: Here's every spaceship that's ever carried an astronaut into orbit

The company did not disclose what Daemen paid for his son's ticket.

The New Shepard rocket is a reusable vehicle that can carry up to six people into suborbital space. It has launched successfully 15 times, including three test flights that involved ensuring that the crew escape system works properly. The rocket is controlled by onboard computers and does not require a human pilot.

Four people will be aboard the inaugural crewed launch on July 20: Blue Origin founder Jeff Bezos, the former head of Amazon; his brother, Mark Bezos, Daemen and pioneering female aviator Wally Funk, age 82. Funk was one of 13 graduates of the private Women in Space program, which put female pilots through the same paces as astronauts in training in the 1960s. NASA never considered sending these women to space, though, and Funk went on to a barrier-breaking career as a Federal Aviation Administration inspector and National Transportation Safety Board air safety investigator.

With the choice of Funk and Daemen as passengers, Blue Origin will set records for both the oldest person and the youngest person in space. Funk will break the record of astronaut John Glenn, who traveled aboard the space shuttle Discovery at the age of 77 in 1998. Daemen will break the record of Russian cosmonaut Gherman Titov, who orbited Earth at the age of 25 in 1961.

Originally published on Live Science
This coin dates to AD 67 or 68 and was minted by Jewish rebels who were revolting against the Roman Empire. A Hebrew inscription on one side of the coin translates to "freedom of Zion."

Two coins minted about 70 years apart by Jewish rebels during two separate revolts against the Roman Empire have been discovered in the West Bank.

The coins may offer insight to what happened during the Bar Kochba revolt against the Romans, researchers say.

One of the coins, minted in A.D. 67-68, depicts a vine leaf and a Hebrew inscription that translates to "the freedom of Zion" on one side, while the other side shows an amphora with two handles and a Hebrew inscription that translates to "year 2," said Dvir Raviv, a senior lecturer at Bar-Ilan University in Israel, who led an archaeological survey in 2020 that uncovered the coins about 19 miles (30 kilometers) northeast of Jerusalem.

Related: Photos: 2,000-year-old Roman road and coins discovered in Israel

At the time this coin was minted, Jewish rebels had defeated Roman forces in the region and had taken over a sizable section of Israel , including Jerusalem, forming a short-lived government that minted its own coins. In A.D. 70, a Roman counterattack would result in the Romans taking back Jerusalem and destroying most of the Temple Mount, the most holy place in Jerusalem.

The archaeological survey also uncovered the other coin less than a mile (1 km) away from the first in a small cave that appears to have been looted in recent times, Raviv said. It was minted in A.D. 134-135, during the so-called Bar Kochba rebellion, which lasted from 132 to 136. One side has a Hebrew inscription that translates to "for the freedom of Jerusalem," along with a palm branch inside a wreath; the other side of the coin is decorated with an image of a lyre and a Hebrew inscription that translates to "Shimon," which was the name of rebel leader "Shimon Ben Kosva, or Bar-Kochba.

At the time that coin was minted, Jewish rebels had launched another rebellion against the Roman Empire, also taking over a good chunk of Israel and forming another short-lived government that minted its own coins. The Romans crushed this rebellion in A.D. 136, with the ancient Roman historian Cassius Dio (who lived decades later, from about 155 to 235) claiming that over 500,000 Jewish men were killed.

"Symbols and slogans on Jewish coins during the two Roman wars declared the rebels' goals: political freedom, the liberation of Jerusalem from the Roman conqueror and the renewal of worship in the Temple," the researchers said in a statement.

Image 1 of 4 A photo of the cave entrance at Wadi er-Rashash looking west. The Bar Kochba coin was found in this cave. The cave had been looted in recent times. (Image credit: Dvir Raviv) Image 2 of 4 A photo of the Wadi er-Rashash area where the coins were found. (Image credit: Yechezkel Blumstein) Image 3 of 4 This coin was minted in A.D. 134-135 by Jewish rebels led by Bar Kochba. They launched a revolt against Rome that succeeded in taking over a sizable amount of Israel before they were crushed by Romans in A.D. 136. This coin was found in a small cave at Wadi er-Rashash, north of Jerusalem. (Image credit: Tal Rogovsky) Image 4 of 4 This coin dates to A.D. 67 or 68 and was minted by Jewish rebels who were revolting against the Roman Empire. (Image credit: Tal Rogovsky)

Clues to a revolt

The coins may provide clues to the revolts, if only because archaeologists know exactly where they were found. Most coins dating to the revolts were found by looters and emerged on the antiquities market, meaning that archaeologists don't know where they originated, wrote Raviv in an article set to be published in December in the journal Israel Numismatic Research.

For instance, the fact that archaeologists know that these coins were found just 1 km (0.62 miles) apart means that theoretically the same person may have owned both coins, Raviv told Live Science.

The coins were found in the Acrabatta region, which was the northernmost region of Judea at the time of Roman rule, Raviv said. Until recently, no coins from the revolt led by Bar-Kochba had been found in this area.

"The Bar-Kokhba coin from Wadi er-Rashash indicates the presence of a Jewish population in the region up to [A.D.] 134/5, in contrast to a previous claim that Jewish settlement in the highlands north of Jerusalem was destroyed during the Great Revolt [that ended in A.D. 73] and not inhabited afterwards," Raviv said in the statement. "This coin is also the first evidence that the Acrabatta region, the northernmost of the districts of Judea during the Roman period, was controlled by the Bar-Kochba administration," Raviv said.

In addition to finding the coins, archaeologists surveying the area also discovered the remains of ceramics, glass items and iron artifacts, including two Roman knives.

Originally published on Live Science.
In this aerial photo from June 14, 2021, a herd of wild Asian elephants rests in Shijie Township of Yimen County, Yuxi City, southwest China's Yunnan Province.

An injured baby elephant that was abandoned by its herd in China has been rescued by a local animal rescue group, according to recent news reports.

The youngster is likely part of a herd of Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) that became famous in June after the group made an unusually long trek across Yunnan province, according to the French news agency AFP . The herd set off last year from their nature reserve near China's southwest border with Myanmar and journeyed more than 310 miles (500 kilometers) to Kunming, the capital of the Yunnan province.

On Saturday (July 10), locals discovered that the pack had left an injured baby elephant that was born during that trek, according to AFP. They found the baby elephant, which weighed around 397 pounds (180 kilograms), alone on a tea plantation with an infected leg injury. Local rescuers applied disinfectant to the baby elephant's leg and brought the animal to a rescue center. They also gave the animal antibacterial and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Related: Elephant images: Largest land animals

"It's possible that something like rattan spines pricked it and the injuries slowly became infected," Bao Mingwei, director of the Asian Elephant Breeding and Rescue Center, told CCTV, as reported by AFP.

The baby elephant's injury could have been life-threatening without treatment, state broadcaster CCTV reported, according to AFP. But with proper care, the elephant should recover, Mingwei said.

Authorities have been monitoring the elephant herd 24 hours a day, using both ground-based surveys and flying drones, according to The Guardian . The pack became famous, and millions tuned in to livestreams of the animals as they trekked across southwest China, according to CNN .

The troop posed problems for local people, trampling crops and causing more than $1 million in damage. The elephants also stole food from villagers and forced evacuations along their path, according to AFP.

It's not clear why the elephants left their nature reserve in the first place; some experts have proposed that shrinking rainforest habitats are to blame, while others suspect the pack is just lost, according to CNN. Agriculture has shrunk elephant habitats over the past few decades, leading many of the animals to search for food elsewhere, according to CNN.

"The traditional buffer zones between humans and elephants are gradually disappearing, and the chances of elephants' encountering humans naturally increase greatly," Zhang Li, a wildlife biologist and professor at Beijing Normal University, told the Global Times , a Chinese news outlet.

The country's wild elephant population has doubled since the 1990s, according to Time magazine . But China's elephant habitat has shrunk by nearly two-thirds since then.

Originally published on Live Science.
The remains of part of the West Bank building are seen here. It was likely used as a reception area for local council members before they ascended to the Temple Mount.

Inside the tunnels beneath the Western Wall in Israel , archaeologists have uncovered the final parts of an elaborate building that may have been used as a reception area for members of Jerusalem's local council and their guests on their journey to Temple Mount.

The building consists of two hallways that were connected by a fountain fed by lead pipes located at the top of Corinthian-style columns, Shlomit Weksler-Bdolach, an archaeologist with the Israel Antiquities Authority, said in a video announcing the discovery. Though there is almost no trace left of them today, ornate sofas for reclining likely furnished the halls, archaeologists said.

Archaeologist Charles Warren discovered parts of the building in the 19th century, and several other archaeologists in the 20th century also uncovered parts of it. Over the past few years, archaeologists with the Israel Antiquities Authority and the Western Wall Heritage Foundation have excavated the remainder of the structure, allowing researchers to get a better understanding of what it was used for, Weksler-Bdolach said.

Related: 8 archaeological sites that Jesus may have visited

Image 1 of 4 After the building was abandoned, sometime before A.D. 70, a bath that was likely used for ritual purification was constructed in the building remains. (Image credit: Photo courtesy Israel Antiquities Authority) Image 2 of 4 The building consists of two halls connected by a fountain that had water fed by lead pipes that come from the top of Corinthian style columns, shown here. (Image credit: Photo courtesy Israel Antiquities Authority) Image 3 of 4 The remains of part of the uncovered building are seen here. It was likely used as a reception area for local council members before they ascended to the Temple Mount. (Image credit: Photo courtesy Israel Antiquities Authority) Image 4 of 4 The remains of part of the uncovered building are seen here. It was likely used as a reception area for local council members before they ascended to the Temple Mount. (Image credit: Photo courtesy Israel Antiquities Authority)

The archaeological team thinks elite individuals would have gathered in this building before ascending to the Temple Mount, the holiest site in Judaism. It's possible that the area was also used for dining, archaeologists said in a statement.

Such reclining dining rooms  where you eat while lying down  were common in the Greek, Hellenistic and Roman worlds from the fifth century B.C. to the third-fourth centuries A.D., according to the statement. "They are known in the archaeological record from private homes, palaces, temples, synagogue complexes and civilian compounds," the statement said. The Hebrew Bible also mentions the use of these rooms for dining, the researchers added.

Archaeological work reveals that the building was constructed sometime between A.D. 20 and A.D. 40, at a time when Israel was under Roman rule . A revolt against the Romans occurred between A.D. 66 and A.D. 73 and resulted in the Roman army sacking Jerusalem and destroying most of the Temple Mount in A.D. 70. The building seems to have been abandoned sometime before the Temple Mount was destroyed, the archaeologists said. After the building went out of use, a plaster pool that was likely used for ritual purification was constructed in the remains of the building, archaeologists said in the statement.

A series of routes will allow tourists to visit this ancient building and other remains in the Western Wall tunnels, the statement said.

Originally published on Live Science.
For seven months, drone photographer Lior Patel tracked the movements of a herd of sheep in Israel.

Have you ever counted sheep to fall asleep? If so, you'll probably find it very relaxing to watch a recent viral video showing a mesmerizing aerial time-lapse of more than 1,000 sheep grazing in grassy meadows.

In the footage, recorded by a drone hovering high overhead, the sheep's tiny bodies swirl, ebb and flow as the flock moves through gates and over fields and pastures. Drone photographer Lior Patel captured the footage in Peace Valley near Yokne'am, a town in northern Israel, and the sped-up time-lapse video quickly went viral after he shared it on Facebook on June 26.

Over seven months, Patel observed and shot drone video of the herd  which ranged in size from approximately 1,000 to 1,700 sheep  as the sheep traveled about 4 miles (7 kilometers) from their winter enclosure to a summer pasture, he told Live Science.

Related: Drone catches Arecibo Observatory's last moments

The project began Jan. 2, when Patel sat down with the flock's shepherd, whom Patel identified by the single name Mustapha, to talk about filming the sheep with a drone, Patel said. The sheep inhabited winter pastures until the weather got too warm and the grass dried up, whereupon they moved to the summer pastures.

"I started coming there once every two weeks," Patel said.

The first few times Patel visited, he was observing the flock, figuring out the elasticity of the herd "and how it spreads and contracts," he said. Once Patel was ready to start shooting, the shepherd would indicate the direction in which the flock was likely to move, and Patel would then send his drone into the air and wait for the sheep to pass underneath, monitoring the drone camera through an app on his iPad.

But trying to predict exactly where the sheep would go was often hit-or-miss, Patel told Live Science.

"At the beginning, it was very hard; I assumed they'd go left, and they went right. I didn't see the logic in the sheep movements," he said.

A post shared by Lior Patel - Drone Photography (@liorpatel) A photo posted by on

Drone videos can detect landscape features that hide long-hidden ancient structures, such as a Stonehenge-like mound in Ireland and 2,000-year-old desert carvings , both discovered in 2018. Drones also capture astonishing views of natural phenomena that are too dangerous for people to approach closely, such as the eruption of Iceland's Fagradalsfjall volcano in March.

Footage from drones has even enabled scientists to identify radiation hotspots in Chernobyl by pinpointing locations with high levels of contamination that weren't yet identified on official maps, Live Science previously reported .

Researchers have also used drone footage like Patel's  overhead views of large herds on the ground  to better understand how animals behave collectively. Scientists studying migrating caribou in Canada recorded the animals from the air to observe how social interactions between individuals affected overall herd movement, according to a 2018 study published in the journal Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B.

"New technologies, like the drones and computer vision we used in our study, are really exciting because they give us the ability to collect movement data on every single individual in a group simultaneously," said Andrew Berdahl, co-author of the 2018 study. (Berdahl, an assistant professor at the University of Washington's School of Aquatic and Fishery Science, was a postdoctoral fellow at the Santa Fe Institute in New Mexico at the time of the study.) "That means we can now unravel the important role that social interactions play in guiding migratory movements," Berdahl said in a statement in 2018.

Drone footage can reveal how the movements of an individual animal shape collective motion. (Image credit: Lior Patel)

In fact, data from Patel's sheep footage could be applied to scientific research someday, he told Live Science.

"As a videographer, I did this just for the beauty of it," he said. "But there's interest in the raw footage as data. When you play the footage at a normal speed, you can find specific patterns of movement within the herd itself.

"I wasn't aware of that when I shot it," he added, "but now I understand why people are interested in it as data, not only as a so-called beautiful video."

Originally published on Live Science.
Karl Marx was a German philosopher, economist, historian and journalist who is best known for his work as a radical political theorist and socialist revolutionary. In collaboration with fellow theorist and benefactor Friedrich Engels, Marx published "The Communist Manifesto" in 1848, which became the basis for communism . His writings remain widely studied but also controversial, and they have influenced revolutionary movements and political regimes across the decades, particularly during the 20th century.

Karl Marx's early life

The third of nine children, Marx was born on May 5, 1818 in what is now Trier, Germany but at that time was a city in the Kingdom of Prussia. Though ethnically Jewish, Marx's father Heinrich had converted to Christianity, and the young Karl was baptized as a Lutheran in 1824. However, his upbringing was largely non-religious.

Related: Why does Christianity have so many denominations?

In 1843 Marx married Jenny von Westphalen, and while their marriage was happy, there were rumors of infidelity. According to Gavin Kitching, emeritus professor of politics at the University of New South Wales, Marx had an affair with the family servant, Helena Demuth, which produced a child named Freddy. "Terrified that his wife would find out, he managed to get Friedrich Engels to claim Freddy's paternity... The truth only emerged on Engel's deathbed," Kitching told Live Science in an email.

In 1843, the Marx and Jenny moved to Paris, where he became influenced by a group of German intellectuals called the Young Hegelians, who studied the work of the philosopher Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel (1770-1831). Through reading Hegel, Marx adopted socialist ideas as well as a revolutionary view of the European political system. Although he was a humanist, meaning he centered his beliefs on all human interests equally, he came to believe that society could only function by the destruction of the privileged upper class, and the rise of the working class  Marx referred to these classes as the proletariat and bourgeoisie, respectively.

While in Paris Marx co-edited the short-lived political journal Deutsch-Franzosische Jahrbucher (meaning "German-French Yearbooks") with Arnold Ruge, a fellow member of the Young Helegians. The journal was aimed at French and German socialists, to "mark the commencement and continuance of the new era that we are entering," (according to Deutsche-Franzosische Jahrbucher) referring to Marx's predicted socialist revolutions in Europe. Many of Marx's articles in the journal discussed ideas that would later be expanded upon in "The Communist Manifesto."

What influenced Marxism?

Similar to Hegel, Marx was strongly influenced by economists such as David Ricardo (1772-1823) and Adam Smith (1723-1790), said Allen Wood, professor of philosophy at Indiana University Bloomington. "As a historian of the 19th century, he was also influenced by French historians of the 1789 revolution, including [Francois] Guizot," (1787-1874) Wood told Live Science in an email.

Another influence on Marx was his friend and collaborator Friedrich Engels. "Engels was a fine historian (in my view, better than Marx), and because he lived in Manchester and actually ran a cotton factory, he knew far more about labour conditions and working-class life generally, than Marx himself," Kitching said. "I therefore think he influenced Marx at least as much as Hegel and Ricardo."

Friedrich Engels was Marx's friend, collaborator and benefactor. (Image credit: Public Domain )

Marx and Engels first met in Cologne in 1842, while the latter was traveling to England, Smithsonian Magazine reported. Marx visited England three years later, after reading Engels' report, "The Condition of the Working-Class in England." There, he met leaders of the Chartists, a socialist, working-class movement that campaigned for universal male suffrage. Marx spent much of his time studying in the libraries of London and Manchester, and he eventually moved to the British capital in 1849. He remained in London for the rest of his life with his family, financially supported by Engels who sent him "up to 50 a year  equivalent to around $7,500 now," Smithsonian Magazine reported.

Related: What is fascism?

Between 1852 and 1862, Marx wrote almost 500 articles for the New York Daily Tribune newspaper as one of its European correspondents. These included reports on political events in Europe, as well as pieces on civil rights, economics and the Crimean War. During this time, an important resource for his work was the British Museum's Reading Room, which was the precursor to the British Library.

The Reading Room housed an enormous collection of books on history, politics and economics, newspapers from around the world, and government documents and official reports, according to historian Thomas C. Jones, writing for the Migration Museum in London. This vast archive provided information for Marx's newspaper articles and for his book "Das Kapital." The Reading Room's collection was so important to Marx's work, that "it is difficult to imagine Marx's thinking or oeuvre developing in any city other than London," Jones wrote.

The British Museum Reading Room was important to Marx's research and writing. (Image credit: Wellcome Collection)

Marx's revolutionary writing was considered controversial and even dangerous by some contemporaries, because of its attack on the status quo of capitalism, said Justin Holt, professor of humanities at Wilbur Wright College. This is because Marx theorized that capitalist profit was a result of exploiting workers. "Marx showed that the profit income of capitalists is based on the non-payment of workers," Holt told Live Science in an email. "Thus, if all workers are paid for their contribution at the margin, then there is no exploitation. So, Marx's theory of exploitation called into question the legitimacy of capitalist production."

After the Paris Commune of 1871, in which far-left socialist revolutionaries formed a short-lived government in the French capital, Marx published " The Civil War in France ," which voiced support for the revolutionaries. The book brought Marx notoriety in London as "the red terror doctor" because of his support for the violent revolutions that threatened to spread across Europe. This reputation is likely what caused his application for British citizenship to be rejected, Jones wrote.

The Communist Manifesto

Marx is best known for authoring "The Communist Manifesto" and "Das Kapital."

The former, originally called "The Manifesto of the Communist Party," was co-written with Engels and published as a pamphlet in 1848. One of the principal statements of European socialist and communist ideology, the manifesto described Marx's conception of history in terms of class struggle, from medieval feudalism to 19th-century capitalism. In the document, Marx predicted that communists would overthrow the bourgeoisie and accomplish the "abolition of private property," before raising "the proletariat to the position of ruling class."

The first page of the "The Manifesto of the Communist Party" published in London, 1848 (Image credit: Public Domain)

The "Manifesto of the Communist Party" is now considered one of the most significant political works in history and contains famous lines such as: "A spectre is haunting Europe  the spectre of communism," and, "The proletarians have nothing to lose but their chains. They have a world to win. Working men of all countries, unite!"

Between 1867 and 1883, Marx published " Das Kapital ," a huge, three-volume analysis of the economic and social failings of capitalism. Focusing on economic arguments, "Das Kapital" argued that capitalism was ultimately doomed because it could not endlessly sustain profits.

What impact has Marxism had on the world?

Marx died of bronchitis and pleurisy at his home in London on March 14, 1883. At the time of his death he was officially a stateless person and was buried in Highgate Cemetery, north London.

Marx is buried with his wife Jenny, who died two years earlier, his daughter Eleanor, the family servant Helena Demuth, and his grandson Harry Longuet who tragically died just six days after Marx.

Marx's writings gained popularity in the late 19th century, after Marxism became the official ideology of the German Social Democrats, which is Germany's oldest political party, according to Deutsche Welle .

Vladimir Lenin (1870-1924) was heavily influenced by Marx's work and became the leading figure of the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution in Russia. This led to the creation of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), or Soviet Union, a huge multinational state that was governed by the Communist Party.

A 1968 Soviet Union stamp commemorating 150 years since Marx's birth. (Image credit: Public Domain)

Communist revolutions influenced by Marx's writing spread elsewhere in the world during the 20th century, most notably in China, North Korea, Cuba and southeast Asia. This eventually led to the onset of the Cold War, a period of geopolitical tension for nuclear dominance between democratic, capitalist governments such as the U.S., and communist regimes such as the Soviet Union.

Related: North Korea: A hermit country from above (photos)

In 1980, approximately 1.5 billion people  more than a third of the Earth's population  were living under governments that claimed to be Marxist-Leninist, according to the American Enterprise Institute , a think-tank located in Washington, D.C.

Marx's association with the enemies of the U.S. and its allies during the Cold War made his writing controversial, Holt said. "Much of our current political awareness was shaped by the conflict with communist countries," he said. "Accordingly, Marxs writings are controversial since they are associated with the main political antagonist of non-communist countries in the 20th century."

Historians continue to debate about the extent to which Marx can be blamed for the governments that claimed inspiration from his writings. "Marx is often identified with the regimes in eastern Europe and in Asia that did not come into existence until a generation or more after his death and whose policies, actions and propaganda bear very little resemblance to anything you could find in Marx's writings," Wood told Live Science in an email.

Regimes associated with Marxism committed many atrocities over the century, although Marx himself never advocated such measures. "However, this does not mean that Marx bears no responsibility for the dictatorships that were created in his name," Kitching told Live Science in an email. "He does, but that responsibility derives from his silences, from what he does not say, rather than from anything in his work."

Is Marxism still relevant?

After the collapse of the Berlin Wall and Soviet Union at the end of the 20th century, Marxism was widely regarded as a failed ideology. In a 1985 speech , president Ronald Reagan, quoting novelist John dos Passos, said: "Not only has Marxism failed to promote human freedom, it has failed to produce food."

Toward the end of the 20th century, many communist regimes either collapsed, such as the Soviet Union, or adapted. For example, the ruling Chinese Communist Party was heavily influenced by Marxism, but its huge economy is now market-orientated. Other countries whose ruling governments derive from communist and Marxist ideology include Vietnam, Cuba and North Korea.

Marxism is widely considered to be politically and economically irrelevant in today's world but it is still "highly influential," philosopher Peter Singer of Princeton University wrote in an article for the World Economic Forum .

Although most of Marx's theories on capitalism are now antiquated, the contradictions he exposed between the freedom of capitalist economies, and the severe inequalities they produce, remain relevant, Kitching said, "so long as human beings continue to live in the forms of society he called 'capitalist' or 'bourgeois'... so long as we have capitalism, so long will human beings have to live with, and cope with, the contradictions he identified."

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Britney Spears celebrated Wednesdays court hearing with a gratitude-filled Instagram post, even using the hashtag #FreeBritney.

Following her conservatorship hearing, Spears posted on social media to express her relief at being able to hire her own lawyer. Coming along, folks  coming along !!!!! Spears wrote, along with the middle finger emoji. New with real representation today  I feel GRATITUDE and BLESSED !!!!

On Wednesday, Judge Brenda Penny granted Spears the ability to hire her own lawyer, a significant step in the pop stars fight to end her 13-year conservatorship. That lawyer will be Mathew Rosengart, a former federal prosecutor who has represented stars like Sean Penn and Keanu Reeves.

Spears fans flooded the area outside the Stanley Mosk Courthouse during the hearing, chanting Free Britney and holding up signs. Spears thanked her fans for their support in the post, which featured video of her horseback riding and doing cartwheels, writing: Thank you to my fans who are supporting me  You have no idea what it means to me be supported by such awesome fans !!!! God bless you all !!!!!

And, Spears ended the post with the hashtag #FreeBritney, in what seems to be the first time Spears has written the two words that have become the slogan for her conservatorship battle.

Spears boyfriend, Sam Asghari, and celebrities like Ariana Grande commented on Spears post to show their support. Internet is about to explode #freebritney, Asghari wrote, while Grande said, YOU ARE SO VERY LOVED AND SUPPORTED.

Appearing remotely, Spears once again made clear that she would like her conservatorship to end, and for her father, Jamie Spears, to be charged with conservatorship abuse.

Im here to get rid of my dad and charge him for conservatorship abuse, Spears said tearfully. I want to press charges for abuse on this conservatorship today all of it.

After Spears testimony, Rosengart called on Jamie Spears to voluntarily resign from the conservatorship.

This is not working. What is supposed to be at the heart of this has been lost, Rosengart said. There is a real question as to why Mr. Spears does not voluntarily step down today. Is he here for financial reasons? Does anybody really believe that Mr. Spears involvement is in the best interest of his daughter?

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The lovechild of passion and talent, Justin Chons Blue Bayou  a lyrical and emotional portrait of identity and family  is a piece that drums up lots of support within the film community, general audiences, and the Academy Awards in various branches. Leaving you in a puddle of tears by the end credits, the Cannes Film Festival selection could be a slam dunk for distributor Focus Features across all eligible categories, including best picture.

Blue Bayou tells the moving and timely story of Antonio LeBlanc (Chon), a Korean adoptee who is raised in a small town in the Louisiana bayou. There, hes married to his wife Kathy (played by Oscar-winner Alicia Vikander) and is a step-dad to her daughter Jessie (played by newcomer Sydney Kowalske). Struggling to make a better life for his family, Antonio must confront his complicated past when he faces possible deportation from the only country hes ever known.

Timely is an understatement on how the story fits into our current climate and culture in America. Likely to do battle in the original screenplay field that could include former nominees and winners such as Aaron Sorkin and Wes Anderson, Chon, who might be best known for playing Eric in the Twilight franchise, humbly takes on the weight of his narrative message. Its not something the writers branch is unfamiliar with. The spotlight that the film serves to a grotesque part of our American culture still prevalent today, with many at-risk without their knowledge, will be worth all the accolades. This may drum up considerable support from the actors branch, which will do wonders for its talent in front of the camera. Is there a perfect narrative thats constructed? No, but when you are serving multiple aspects of a movie, with Chons biggest directorial feature yet, some of the overdone beats tend to either slog or get in the way. So let me be clear, Hollywood would be wise to give Chon the keys to his next venture and see where he wants to take us for the ride.

Only eight filmmakers have been nominated for acting and directing for the same film  Orson Welles for Citizen Kane (1941), Sir Laurence Olivier for Hamlet (1948), Woody Allen for Annie Hall (1977), Warren Beatty, twice for Heaven Can Wait (1978) and Reds (1981), Kenneth Branagh for Henry V (1989), Kevin Costner for Dances with Wolves (1990), Roberto Benigni for Life is Beautiful (1998) and Clint Eastwood, twice for Unforgiven (1992) and Million Dollar Baby (2004). Chon is more than deserving and worthy of joining this elite list as Antonio is grounded but visibly affected by whats around him.

This is easily Vikanders strongest work since her 2015 Oscar-winning turn in Tom Hoopers The Danish Girl. Slipping right into the films world, she could be one of the more accessible elements for awards groups to recognize. However, itll be interesting where she decides to campaign her achievement, as I see it as a clear and defining leading role. At the time of her Oscar win, the long argued debate surrounding category fraud was looking like it was gaining traction among awards enthusiasts. Vikander, along with Rooney Mara (Carol), were being called out for their leading roles going the easy route for supporting nominations. When you compare her work in Blue Bayou next to her co-star Linh Dan Pham, a remarkable actress who delivers an astounding turn as Parker, a woman who comes into Antonios life at a crucial time, you cannot compare the two characters in terms of screen time and impact on the narratives tale. Both are worthy, but will hopefully campaign appropriately.

Ante Cheng and Matthew Chuangs blue hues and Emmanuel Lubezki-like camera work should lead to consideration for cinematography. The same goes for the editing by Reynolds Barney and music by Roger Suen, who has worked with Chon on his features such as Ms. Purple and Gook. The family that sticks together makes beautiful movies together, it seems.

There will be natural comparisons to last years Minari, which found recognition in multiple categories and won supporting actress for Yuh-Jung Youn. Theyre not unwarranted, but its beyond AAPI aesthetics and themes. I found the throughline of many creative and acclaimed auteurs and artists sprinkled in parts, such as Barry Jenkins and Jim Sheridan. In America and Moonlight poke through the film in a very positive manner, and with a September release coming, I can see people really getting behind it; however, its fair to say that the Cannes crowd wasnt across-the-board excited by the films execution. Not just because Emory Cohen has a role in the film, but some parts hawk back to The Place Beyond the Pines by Derek Cianfrance, which was well-liked by many but found no support on the awards circuit. The key will be having multiple branches buy into what Chon is selling. Hopefully, a group like SAG will see the value and give it a leg up with an ensemble mention, which is one of its key strengths.

Its a long road to go, but Blue Bayou feels like the starting line firing in awards season. So lets see if it can stay in the race.

Blue Bayou is produced by Poppy Hanks, Charles D. King and Kim Roth. The film opens on Sept. 17 in theaters.

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Mika Brzezinski, Nicolle Wallace and Jonathan Capehart are among the MSNBC anchors taking on new programming duties  but not on MSNBC.

MSNBC will expand its streaming-video channel, renamed The Choice From MSNBC, by adding several hours of new daily programming to the entity, and developing new shows. The Choice is found on Peacock, and the move represents the latest effort by one of the nations big TV-news outlets to gain new traction with viewers gravitating toward on-demand sessions with streaming venues.

Im so proud that today  on MSNBCs 25th anniversary  we are expanding our footprint and investing in even more robust streaming programming on Peacock, said Rashida Jones, president of MSNBC, in a prepared statement. Jones hinted earlier this week that the company would have announcements regarding The Choice.

Starting Thursday, The Choice will add a new program to its lineup. MSNBC Perspectives, slated to air at 5 p.m. weekdays, collects analytical segments from across MSNBCs morning, primetime and weekend programming. NBCU has been experimenting with highlights shows. NBC News Today recently launched Today in 30, a show that aims to recap each weekdays four hours of Today morning programming for mobile audiences.

MSNBC is walking a tightrope upon which many other mainstay TV-news organizations must tread. The networks want to use the anchors and correspondents who show up regularly on their most-watched outlets to lure audiences to streaming. But theres concern about cannibalizing the audiences already tuning in to see the news in linear fashion.

More news outlets are ramping up the amount of programming they provide for streaming outlets. ABC News is making special programs tied to the latest headlines for Hulu. Fox News Channel recently agreed to make available its popular primetime shows from Tucker Carlson, Sean Hannity and Laura Ingraham via its Fox Nation streaming service the morning after the programs aired on its mainstay cable outlet.

MSNBC will provide other streaming programing as well. Weekend anchor Jonathan Capehart will launch a weekly program for The Choice in August that ties MSNBC more closely with The Washington Post. The Washington Posts First Look with Jonathan Capehart will feature debriefs with Post journalists, with the anchor also moderating a roundtable discussion with opinion writers and columnists from the news outlet. The hour is also expected to include newsmaker interviews.

MSNBC is developing three other series that will be exclusive to the streaming outlet. Michael Beschloss, who serves as a presidential historian for MSNBC, will host Fireside History with Michael Beschloss, in which he will use footage from the NBC News archives as well as live interviews to offer perspective on issues in the news, such as voting rights, as well as news stories from the past. On Morning Mika, slated to debut later this year, Brzezinski will talk with newsmakers, experts and Washington insiders on the biggest stories of the day. Nicolle Wallace, who hosts MSNBCs late-afternoon show Deadline: The White House, will host a series, with details to be released at a later date.

MSNBCs Morning Joe team  Joe Scarborough, Mika Brzezinski and Willie Geist  will continue to host commentary and analysis programming tied to major events for The Choice.

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Audreys mom doesnt pay attention to her; Juliens ex-boyfriend is crushing on her half-sister; Monet is on the brink of inciting a social media-driven riot to reinstate private schools hierarchy. And, in classic Gossip Girl fashion, the Manhattan socialites are sipping martinis and looking fabulous amidst the chaos.

Aside from the drama, the stars of this weeks episode are the lavish gowns the girls wear to Black Tie for School Supplies, a fundraising party that looks more like a Windsor-worthy ball than a PTA-planned event. And as much as the elitist group would like their wardrobes to be exclusively off-limits, three of the best dresses from Thursdays episode are still available in a wide range of sizes. (Unlike Juliens Capucine that would take an entire months salary to replace.)

You can still get your hands on Audreys elegant cut-out satin gown from Rasario, Lunas show-stopping Giambattisti Valli floral-print gown (currently 50% off) and Monets Rasario ruffled gown. While Juliens Christopher John Rogers dress isnt for sale, you can check out more of her designer of choices dresses here for a similar look.

And if you havent already, check out Zoyas limited-edition Beyonce Adidas Superstars that she wore on the first day of school.

Rasario Cut-Out Satin Gown

Audreys understated, yet classic, style opts for another fashion staple this week, the little black dress. The elegant, cut-out satin dress from Rasario is made out of glossy, duchesse satin, the gown includes a structured top cut in the shape of a perfect bow for an elegant column silhouette. For a more affordable option that gives the same effect, you can go for this Alice + Olivia Havana Cut-Out Dress.

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Giambattisti Valli Floral-Print Gown (50% Off)

Luna doesnt get too much screen time in this weeks episode, but her Giambattisti Valli floral-print gown stole the whole show! And good news, the ivory, green and pink silk dress is currently 50% off on Farfetch. The ruffled beauty features an eye-catching bow detail in the front, frilly trim, a flared skirt and a high-low hem that ends in a long train at the back.

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Rasario Ruffled Gown

Monet is the offense player in the clique, wearing her clothes as armor, which is why this red carpet-worthy gown is the perfect choice for a night where the brewing drama comes to an ugly head. The strapless dress is made from plush black velvet and shimmering lame, featuring a sophisticated sweetheart neckline supported by internal boning. For a dramatic flair, the side is done up with silver ruffles ending in a dramatic leg split.

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The Jesus Music  a documentary tracing the uplifting and untold story of the roots of contemporary Christian music through where the genre is today  will arrive in theaters on October 1st via Lionsgate. The film features some of the biggest names in the genre, including Amy Grant, Kirk Franklin, Michael W. Smith, TobyMac and Lauren Daigle.

A lot of hymns are close your eyes singing to God, Grant says in a new trailer for the documentary. I wanted to sing with my eyes wide open, singing to each other.

The clip features footage of the civil unrest in the Sixties and how the counterculture movement helped spawn the genre. You want to find a loving way to have these conversations, Franklin says.

As Christian music evolved, new perspectives were added to the mix. There was so much great music going on, everything felt so fresh and new, Grant says.

The transition to more contemporary sounds, however, appears to have not always been a smooth one, as the trailer implies. It was so much drama in the church, Franklin says.

The artists also discuss how the music changed them, attributing it to being everything from a lifeline, to being the most powerful language in the world. It became part of the fabric of who I was, Franklin says.

And you can do all of that in three-and-a-half minutes, Michael W. Smith adds.

Directed by the Erwin Brothers, the documentary also features interviews with Michael Tait, DC Talk, Chris Tomlin, John L. Cooper, CeCe Winans, Steven Curtis Chapman, and more artists.
BEIJING (AP)  Rescuers were pumping out water Thursday to try to find 14 construction workers trapped by a flood in a highway tunnel being built in southern China.

The rescuers have not been able to contact the workers missing since the 3:30 a.m. flood, the Zhuhai city emergency management department said in an online post.

Rescue work is proceeding in an intense and orderly way," it said.

RELATED: You can now adopt a drain to help Houston fight flooding

Workers were about 1.1 kilometers (0.7 miles) from the entrance to the tunnel when a strange noise was heard and material started falling from the top of the tunnel, Yan Dawu, the deputy general manager of the construction company, said at a news conference.

An evacuation was ordered, but water gushed in and 14 people were unable to get out, Yan said. We feel deeply guilty and deeply blame ourselves, he said.

The area where they were working is under a reservoir. By 12:30 p.m., rescue teams had plugged the hole where water was coming in. They were draining and pumping water from the reservoir as well as from the tunnel.

More than 1,000 workers, 22 fire trucks and five pumping vehicles were taking part in the effort, with search and rescue teams dispatched from surrounding cities in Guangdong province.

In March, two workers died in another part of the tunnel when a protective wall collapsed and they were hit by falling stones, according to a notice from the Zhuhai emergency management department.

Zhuhai is a coastal city near Macao at the mouth of the Pearl River delta. It was one of China's early special economic zones when the ruling Communist Party started opening up the nation's economy about 40 years ago.
With the COVID-19 delta variant spreading across the country, local officials gathered to discuss an action plan in the event of a rise of cases in the city due to the newest strain of the virus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Tuesday that 58% of all U.S. cases were the delta variant. That total was just 3% in late May and 31% two weeks ago.

Laredo Health Authority Dr. Victor Trevino said that as the delta variant is now the dominant COVID strain in the U.S., it is a concern as it is more transmittable than the UK variant or the original strain.

The best line of defense and protection will continue to be the vaccinations and the public health control measures such as quarantines, Trevino said. We need the public to do their part and get vaccinated.

He explained that variants are creations due to the unvaccinated population which continue to present risks to themselves and the vaccinated population.

According to the CDC, viruses constantly change through mutation as new variants can occur. The CDC states that an example is the virus being like a tree while each branch is slightly different. Those differences are what scientists examine to understand each new and old variant.

These variants seem to spread more easily and quickly than other variants, which may lead to more cases of COVID-19, the CDC states. An increase in the number of cases will put more strain on healthcare resources, lead to more hospitalizations and potentially more deaths. So far, studies suggest that the current authorized vaccines work on the circulating variants. Scientists will continue to study these and other variants.

In order to curtail the potential impact the new variant may have on the city, Trevino encouraged vaccinations and talked about two other remedies that may help. This includes the reduction of the mass release of COVID positive migrants into the community and by providing excess vaccination doses to neighboring communities like Nuevo Laredo.

Trevino added that through a discussion with Mayor Pete Saenz and Rep. Henry Cuellar, the three addressed the current health risks presented by the variant and stopped DHS transfers from the surrounding regions.

As an additional response to the threat, Trevino sent in a request to the Department of State Health Services Commissioner Dr. John Hellerstedt for additional staff members at local hospitals. After seeing over 10 COVID positive pediatric patients a day, the request was highly emphasized.

Furthermore, an already approved request for additional medical supplies was also made and will include gloves, vaccines and masks for the community.

According to the DSHS, Webb County currently has 111 active cases as of Wednesday and a fully-vaccinated rate of over 72% for the age 12-and-over population, and over 82% for the 65-and-older population. The DSHS ranks Laredo No. 1 among all major Texas cities in vaccination rate.

Laredo Health Department Director Richard Chamberlain said that the high vaccination rate is a result of the multiple partnerships between the city and community partnerships like Gateway Health Center and the school districts.

The city continues to host vaccination drives at multiple locations throughout the week. Chamberlains presentation states that on weekdays, vaccine clinics are held at the Laredo International Airport, the Laredo Health Department, San Agustin Plaza and Independence Park.

Additional clinics are also available with the vaccine available daily in pharmacies. Vaccines are administered throughout the days and different times based on the location.

cocampo@lmtonline.com
WASHINGTON  Ed Gonzalez, sheriff of Harris County, in Texas, made ending a partnership with Immigration and Customs Enforcement one of his first decisions on the job because, he said, the program encouraged illegal racial profiling.

Chris Magnus, police chief in Tucson, Arizona, has taken pride in his citys boast of being welcoming to immigrants. It is also home to one of the busiest sectors of the Border Patrol, an agency that is rarely praised for its hospitality.

RELATED: Joe Biden taps Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez to lead ICE

The two men have been tapped to run the federal governments immigration enforcement agencies, an abrupt shift from rough-justice immigration chiefs in the Trump administration. If they are confirmed by the Senate  Gonzalez at ICE and Magnus at Customs and Border Protection  they would be responsible for delivering on President Joe Bidens promise to return compassion to the immigration system after the roundups, zero tolerance, wall-building and family separations of the last administration.

Gonzalezs confirmation hearing, before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, is set for Thursday. A hearing for Magnus has not been scheduled. But in a reminder of how charged the immigration issue has already become for Biden, Sen. James Lankford, R-Okla., said Tuesday that he had placed a hold on both nominations until we can actually get the Biden administration to lay out what their policy is going to be, and what theyre going to do to be able to actually enforce the law regarding immigration.

The local law enforcement backgrounds of the nominees would bring a new perspective as Americans demand changes in how the police treat communities of color. But it could also become their greatest challenge, as Gonzalez and Magnus try to gain the trust of agencies they have interacted with as distinct outsiders. Local law enforcement leaders tend to see working with their communities as a paramount responsibility. Federal law enforcement has rarely operated that way.

The job of local law enforcement is pretty significantly different from the role that these immigration enforcement policing agencies play, in part because theres no way to build trust between ICE and CBP and immigrant communities, said Shaina Aber, deputy director of the Center on Immigration and Justice at the Vera Institute of Justice in New York. ICE and the Border Patrol, she added, really start with this kind of specious notion of immigrant guilt.

Within the ranks of immigration law enforcement, officers are already wary. Brandon Judd, president of the Border Patrol union, suggested that Magnus, who loudly criticized the Trump administrations policies, was sympathetic to people who enter the United States without legal permission. Thats a concern, he said.

And anti-immigrant groups are girding for a fight. In the midst of the current border crisis, ICE needs a strong leader at the helm  not an open-borders apologist opposed to the enforcement of our immigration laws, Preston Huennekens, a government relations manager for the Federation for American Immigration Reform, said of Gonzalezs nomination.

The sheriff, whose tenure in Harris County, which includes Houston, began weeks before Donald Trumps inauguration, is no stranger to ICE, an agency that makes a lot of arrests in the area. In 2019, he shared his objections to raids conducted by ICE agents and made clear his department did not participate in them. I do not support #ICERaids that threaten to deport millions of undocumented immigrants, the vast majority of whom do not represent a threat to the U.S., he posted on Twitter. The focus should always be on clear & immediate safety threats. Not others who are not threats.

In Tucson, Magnus limited the reach of the federal immigration authorities by narrowing the scope of the situations deemed appropriate for one of his officers to call ICE or Border Patrol.

But if conservatives are leery of the nominees, local immigrant groups are skeptical of their good-cop images.

Our communities in Texas have witnessed firsthand how Sheriff Gonzalez has worked with ICE to transfer immigrants to ICE detention facilities and perpetuated the pain and trauma of our communities, said Norma Gonzalez, a lead organizer in Texas for United We Dream, which represents young immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally as children.

Some pro-immigration activists in Tucson are equally skeptical of Magnus. After a 2017 protest against Trumps immigration policies, a video of a Tucson police officer pushing an 86-year-old woman went viral. Another woman, in her 60s, was pepper-sprayed by police when she reached down to help her. At the time, Magnus said his officers managed the situation, which he described as a peaceful protest that escalated to a safety and logistical challenge.

Still, the outspoken opposition of Magnus and Gonzalez to using local law enforcement to enforce federal immigration law is a sharp departure from the past four years, when Trump often threatened to cut off federal funding to cities that did not assist in his crackdowns.

The Trump administration sought to expand a program, created in a 1996 law, that teamed federal immigration agencies with local law enforcement. Biden has said he did not believe that local police should turn over immigrants living in the U.S. illegally to ICE to be deported.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has started a review of such agreements. In May, he ended agreements with two county jails, in Georgia and Massachusetts, which had been under investigation over whether they had mistreated immigrant prisoners. Other agreements could also be terminated in the coming months.

For several decades now, immigrant leaders have been demanding total disentanglement of local law enforcement with federal immigration enforcement, said Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg, a lawyer with the Legal Aid Justice Center. I think the nomination of these two individuals gives a lot of people hope that we might actually see some real concrete action on that front.

RELATED: Critics denounce Greg Abbott and Dan Patrick's 'invasion' rhetoric on immigration

If anything, liberal groups appear ready to impose unrealistic demands on Bidens nominees for ICE and Customs and Border Protection, using the loftiest of language to lay down their visions.

The entire federal immigration system must be re-imagined to lead with the concept that migration is a human right and a commitment to replace the deportation-centric immigration system with one that embraces equity, diversity and fairness, said Laura Pena, a lawyer with the Texas Civil Rights Project.

Customs and Border Protection and ICE were at the center of some of the most contentious policies under the Trump administration, accused of racial profiling, excessive force and inhumanely handling people in custody. The agencies were among a dozen Trump turned to last summer in his bid to dominate demonstrators protesting police brutality.

Those are also issues Magnus and Gonzalez have faced in their own departments.

Last year, Magnus offered to resign after two Latino men died in his departments custody. One of the men was naked, handcuffed and face down on the ground, and said he could not breathe. When the mayor refused to review the departments practices, the chief brought in an outside group to do so. Some groups have criticized Magnus handling of the situation, saying he took too long to release relevant footage.

In 2018, Gonzalez fired a deputy who shot and killed an unarmed man, which violated the departments policy on use of force.

Youve got two really innovative police executives who have been tested and know what the challenge of changing organizations and culture  theyve been there, said Chuck Wexler, executive director of the Police Executive Research Forum.

Even Judd, the Border Patrol union chief, said some cultural change was necessary. In 2019, a group of Customs and Border Protection employees, including the chief of Border Patrol, participated in private Facebook groups and other social media platforms with posts that included obscene images of Hispanic lawmakers as well as threats to members of Congress.

Biden has unveiled an immigration overhaul that Democrats introduced in the House in February. The proposal adds a path to citizenship for most of the 11 million immigrants living in the U.S. illegally. But it does not include a significant focus on increasing border security, which is a departure from previous bills. It faces an almost impossible climb in the evenly divided Senate, where at least 10 Republican votes would be needed for passage.

Trump has largely united his party behind his punitive hard-line approach, and since Biden took office, congressional Republicans have tirelessly charged that the situation at the border is out of control.

With the parties in Congress in no mood to cooperate on legislation, it will be up to the chiefs of the immigration enforcement agencies to lead any changes. And that will mean navigating very conflicting demands.

According to ICE data, arrests are down about 65%. There have been just over 13,000 arrests from February through June, compared with nearly 40,000 over the same period in 2020. The pandemic has had a significant effect on the situation. In April 2020, ICE arrested 5,792, which was a 44% decrease from a month earlier.

The decrease this year can also be attributed to Bidens guidance requiring ICE to focus on violent offenders. The average daily population in its detention facilities, however, has increased in recent months, as more migrants have arrived at the southwestern border.

Liberals in Congress have also denounced the Biden administrations enforcement priorities, arguing, for instance, that its definition of a public safety risk  anyone convicted of an aggravated felony  is a relic of the racist war on drugs.

Immigration enforcement is inherently problematic in this country, Wexler said. The workforce has heard different messages over the years, and certainly, coming on the heels of the Trump administration, theres going to have to be finding the right balance.

This article originally appeared in The New York Times.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The child tax credit had always been an empty gesture to millions of parents like Tamika Daniel.

That changed Thursday when the first payment of $1,000 hit Daniels bank account  and dollars started flowing to the pockets of more than 35 million families around the country. Daniel, a 35-year-old mother of four, didnt even know the tax credit existed until President Joe Biden expanded it for one year as part of the $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package that passed in March.

Previously, only people who earned enough money to owe income taxes could qualify for the credit. Daniel went nearly a decade without a job because her eldest son is autistic and needed her. So she got by on Social Security payments. And she had to live at Fairfield Court, a public housing project that dead-ends at Interstate 64 as the highway cuts through the Virginia capital of Richmond.

But the extra $1,000 a month for the next year could be a life-changer for Daniel, who now works as a community organizer for a Richmond nonprofit. It will help provide a security deposit on a new apartment.

Its actually coming right on time, she said. We have a lot going on. This definitely helps to take a load off.

Biden has held out the new monthly payments, which will average $423 per family, as the key to halving child poverty rates. But he is also setting up a broader philosophical battle about the role of government and the responsibilities of parents.

Democrats see this as a landmark program along the same lines as Social Security, saying it will lead to better outcomes in adulthood that will help economic growth. But many Republicans warn that the payments will discourage parents from working and ultimately feed into long-term poverty.

Some 15 million households will now receive the full credit. The monthly payments amount to $300 for each child who is 5 and younger and $250 for those between 5 and 17. The payments are set to lapse after a year, but Biden is pushing to extend them through at least 2025.

The president ultimately would like to make the payments permanent  and that makes this first round of payments a test as to whether the government can improve the lives of families.

Biden invited beneficiaries to the White House to mark the first round of payments, saying in a Thursday speech that the day carried a historic resonance because of the boost it will give families across the nation.

"This would be the largest ever one-year decrease in child poverty in the history of the United States of America," the president said. Millions of children and their families, starting today, their lives are about to change for the better. And our country would be better off for it as well.

Florida Republican Sen. Marco Rubio, who successfully championed increasing the credit in 2017, said that the Democrats plans will turn the benefits into an anti-work welfare check because almost every family can now qualify for the payment regardless of whether the parents have a job.

Not only does Bidens plan abandon incentives for marriage and requirements for work, but it will also destroy the child-support enforcement system as we know it by sending cash payments to single parents without ensuring child-support orders are established, Rubio said in a statement Wednesday.

The administration disputed those claims. Treasury Department estimates indicate that 97% of recipients of the tax credit have wages or self-employment income, while the other 3% are grandparents or have health issues. The credit also starts to phase out at $150,000 for joint filers, so there is no disincentive for the poor to work because a job would just give them more income.

Colorado Democratic Sen. Michael Bennet said the problem is one of inequality. He said that economic growth has benefited the top 10% of earners in recent decades, while families are struggling with the rising costs of housing, child care and health care. He said his voters back in Colorado are concerned that their children will be poorer than previous generations and that requires the expansion of the child tax credit.

Its the most progressive change to Americas tax code ever, Bennet told reporters.

Parenthood is an expensive undertaking. The Agriculture Department estimated in 2017, the last year it published such a report, that a typical family spends $233,610 to raise a child from birth to the age of 17. But wealthier children get far more invested in their education and upbringing, while poorer children face a constant disadvantage. Families in the top third of incomes spend about $10,000 more annually per child than families in the lower third.

The child tax credit was created in 1997 to be a source of relief, yet it also became a driver of economic and racial inequality as only parents who owed the federal government taxes could qualify for its full payment. Academic research in 2020 found that about three-quarters of white and Asian children were eligible for the full credit, but only about half of Black and Hispanic children qualified.

In the census tract where Daniel lives in Richmond, the median household income is $14,725 almost five times lower than the national median. Three out of every 4 children live in poverty. For a typical parent with two children in that part of Richmond, the expanded tax credit would raise income by almost 41%.

The tax credit is as much about keeping people in the middle class as it is about lifting up the poor.

Katie Strelka, of Brookfield, Wisconsin, was laid off from her job as a beauty and hair care products buyer for the Kohls department store chain in September as the pandemic tightened its grip on the country. She and her sons, 3-year-old Oliver and 7-year-old Robert, were left to depend on her husbands income as a consultant for retirement services. The family was already struggling to pay for her husbands kidney transplant five years earlier and his ongoing therapies before she was laid off, she said.

With no job prospects, Strelka reenrolled in college to study social work in February. Last month she landed a new job as an assistant executive director for the nonprofit International Association for Orthodontics. Now she needs day care again. That amounts to $1,000 a month for both kids.

All the tax credit money will go to cover that, said Strelka, 37.

Every little bit is going to help right now," she said. "Im paying for school out-of-pocket. Im paying for the boys stuff. The cost of food and everything else has gone up. Were just really thankful. The tide feels like its turning.

___

Associated Press writer Todd Richmond in Madison, Wis., contributed to this report.

___

This story has been updated to correct that Katie Strelka pays $1,000 a month for day care, not $1,000 a week. It has also been corrected to fix the spelling of Fairfield Court, not Courts. And it has been corrected to show the spelling of the Wisconsin mother's last name is Strelka, not Stekla.
Lockport, NY (14094)

Today

Sunshine and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 84F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Clear skies. Low around 65F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.
The beginning of the school year when you got to show off your new duds, new cars, new looks!

Sports! Playing, cheering, watching high school athletics.

The arts: Dramatic arts, musical groups and shows, graphic arts groups, debate, etc.

The prom! No dancing the night away or punch bowl antics.

The daily interactions. Just being with the group, hanging with friends and classmates.

Access to college recruiters and advisors  its harder to line up higher education.

Walking onstage to get a diploma while all the family is watching with everyone elses family.

Vote

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Longford bode an emotional farewell yesterday (Tuesday) to one of its most esteemed and revered characters in the form of former town councillor and publican Peter Clarke.

The popular compositor turned councillor and later businessman passed away peacefully in the the caring surrounds of Laurel Lodge Nursing Home last Saturday.

A compositor or typesetter with the Longford Leader and The Longford News, Peter's multi-faceted dexterity saw him enjoy long and distinguished spells both as a publican and local politician for almost four decades.

First elected in 1967 at just 24 years of age, Peter became Longford's youngest ever councillor, a mantle he proudly held for 27 years until the arrival of Fianna Fail's Tony Flaherty in 1994.

The proud holder of Longford Town Mayor (1973-74, 1992-1993, 2001-2002) on three separate occasions, Peter was equally well known for his affability in being the mainstay behind Clarke's, one of the longest family run establishments still in existence in the county town.

This week, many of Peter's former political colleagues have been paying their own respects to one of Longford's most respected and admired personalities.

He was a great man and someone who I had an awful lot of time for," said former town councillor Tony Carberry.

"He was elected before I was in 1979 and he had the experience. He was a very easy councillor to work with."

Mr Carberry said his long time political opposite number took those same unassuming virtues into many other facets of his life, most notably his successful running of his family run bar business on Dublin Street.

"Peter was a man who was the very same outside the bar as he was inside the bar.

"The minute you went in that door, you knew you were welcome.

"Peter would tell things as he saw it and he was admired for that. Politics would rarely ever come into it with Peter.

"He was a great friend of mine and is someone who I will miss dearly."

Those sincere sentiments were ones which were underlined by another of Peter's long serving town council colleagues, Christy Warnock.

The now retired Independent local representative who bowed out of local politics in 2011, said Longford had lost one of its most cherished and inimitable figures in the form of the former Fine Gael political heavyweight.

"I am very sorry to hear of Peter's passing," said a sombre sounding Mr Warnock.

"I have to say, he was a very personal friend of mine and was a very honourable, straight man.

"We served together for many years on the council and he was a first class councillor.

"Longford will be a lot poorer for his passing."

Fellow former town councillor Tony Flaherty told of how he managed to cut his own initial political teeth in the mid to late 90s on the back of Peter's vast political experience.

He was a true gent, who always had Longford at heart, said Mr Flaherty.

I learned a lot from him on the VEC (Vocational Educational Committee) and served alongside him for 10 years.

He never brought politics into it. Peter was a good councillor, he served the people well and if there was something which was good for the town, he was all for it. That was Peter.

The late Peter Clarke's funeral mass took place on Tuesday followed by Cremation in Lakelands Crematorium Cavan.

Predeceased by his wives Patricia and Loretta, sisters Kathleen and Mary and brother Thomas, Peter is sadly missed by his sisters Nora O'Reilly and Ann Ryan, brother Matthew, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Gardai arrested a man on suspicion of drug driving after he drove past them as they were about to set up a checkpoint.

Gareth Jones, Beihy, Drumlish, Co Longford pleaded not guilty to the offence on December 11, 2019 at Corrabawn, Drumlish, Co Leitrim. Garda Paul Stuart said they were in the process of setting up a checkpoint at 8.10pm when he noticed a car pass by. He said the driver had his chest almost on the steering wheel and it looked like he didnt have a seat belt on. They followed the car and pulled him over. He said the driver's eyes were extremely glassy and he was acting very nervously and making sudden jittery movements.

He made a requirement of a sample of his oral fluid which showed positive for cocaine. Mr Jones was arrested and taken to Longford Garda Station. Mr Jones told him he had taken cocaine earlier as he was working in Dublin and was extremely tired and needed it for the drive back home to Drumlish.

In cross examination by solicitor, John McNulty, Garda Stuart said he was 90% sure the defendant had not been wearing his seat belt when he passed by them. He said he spent nine or ten minutes talking to him before requiring a sample and then went back to the patrol car to analyse it.

Mr McNulty said Mr Jones felt he was left in his car for about ten minutes while Garda Stuart went back to the patrol car and conducted a check on him. Nothing came up on him on the Pulse system and Mr McNulty said it was then that the garda formed the opinion, handed him the swab and tested him.

Garda Stuart said that was not correct. He said it was his colleague Garda Flanagan who conducted the check while he was at the roadside with Mr Jones.

Mr McNulty asked the garda why it was necessary to conduct a check if he had already formed his opinion. Garda Stuart said it was standard practice.

Mr Jones said he was pulled in and the garda spoke to him and then he was left for about ten minutes in the car while they did a background check on him before coming back with a swab. Mr Jones told Inspector Treacy that he had taken a small bit of coke to get me back to myself and agreed it was not acceptable.

Mr McNulty said the garda had no grounds to stop Mr Jones other than he thought he had no seat belt. He said there was also nothing in the gardas evidence about the nature of his driving.

Mr McNulty said it was his belief the garda formed his opinion after the checks were done. He said the garda must inform the driver of his opinion and why he was carrying out the test.

Judge Kevin Kilrane complimented Garda Stuart's evidence and convicted the defendant, who is 38-years-old and the father of three children, fining him 350 and disqualifying him for one year. Recognisances were fixed in the event of an appeal.
Longford / Westmeath Fianna Fail TD and Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital & Company Regulation, Robert Troy has been wished well by his political colleagues ahead of his marriage ceremony today where he will tie the knot with Aideen Ginnell.

Minister Troy publicly announced their love coalition - his engagement to Aideen - in April 2020, on the same day that the leaders of Fine Gael and Fianna Fail reached an historic agreement on a policy framework document with a view towards forming a coalition government.

ALSO READ: On the day of an historic political 'marriage', Longford / Westmeath Fianna Fail TD Robert Troy announces engagement to Aideen Ginnell

Announcing their engagement, the Ballynacargy native, who successfully contested the last three general elections - 2011, 2016 & February 2020, said, "Aideen has been with me through it all and is my very best friend and now I am delighted to say will become my wife."

A late one in the Dail last night to pass the legislation to get indoor hospitality back open, safely.



Thank you to my colleagues & all who have wished Aideen and I well for today, Ill be taking a few days and will be back to work early next week  Robert Troy TD (@RobertTroyTD) July 15, 2021

In May, Minister Troy revealed the wedding date and he thanked his colleagues and all who wished Aideen and himself well for their big day.

He added, "Ill be taking a few days and will be back to work early next week."

So its official - permission from the state to get married



Roll on July 15th! pic.twitter.com/9qlSMiMNdP  Robert Troy TD (@RobertTroyTD) May 25, 2021

On July 1, Minister Troy tabled a very important parliamentary question to Health Minister Stephen Donnelly, asking the number of guests who will be permitted at wedding ceremonies and receptions over the coming months?

Minister Donnelly replied, "As the Deputy will be aware, 50 people can currently attend a wedding service (both religious and civil) and 25 people can attend a wedding celebration or reception. On June 29, Government announced the next phase of reopening the economy and society in line with Recovery and Resilience: The Path Ahead.

"While a number of higher risk indoor activities will not recommence as planned on July 5, pending the implementation of a system to verify vaccination or immunity status, it has been announced that, as an exception, weddings already planned will be allowed to proceed with the planned increase in the number of guests to 50 at the wedding reception with protective measures.

"While significant progress is being made in relation to the roll-out of our vaccination programme and the current situation is broadly stable, the prevalence of the more transmissible Delta variant is rapidly increasing in Ireland and this poses a significant risk, in particular to those who are not yet fully vaccinated.

"As we further ease public health measures, our approach must continue to be cautious, gradual and phased, with sufficient time between any easing of measures to assess the impact. This will be critical to ensure that our progress in controlling the virus is maintained. Significant and sustained progress has been made on suppressing the virus over recent months due to the huge effort of people across the country. By working together, we have saved lives and limited the impact of the disease on society in Ireland. To protect the gains of recent months we must continue to practice basic preventative behaviours and to follow public health guidelines."
News outlets and local radio in Longford should benefit from State support in a proposed alternative public service media charge to replace the outdated TV licence fee, Fine Gael Senator Micheal Carrigy has said.

The proposal is one of the main recommendations in the Fine Gael submission to the Future of Media Commission following a detailed survey and analysis on the local media landscape nationwide by the party with feedback from almost 100 key stakeholders.

Senator Carrigy said a cornerstone of the Fine Gael submission is strengthening and ensuring a successful future for regional newspapers, radio stations and media outlets serving their communities in Longford.

A strong media sector is a cornerstone of a well-functioning democracy. We have always been lucky to have such a sector in Longford who do their duty without fear or favour. But that sector is under severe threat and has been for some time. It needs more support, commented Senator Carrigy.

Our local media organisations including, the Longford Leader newspaper and Shannonside FM in Longford need support now more than ever.

Advertising and income sources are depleting, and online sites are taking content without reimbursing those who source it, while at the same time, throughout the Covid-19 public health emergency, the value of trusted news sources has never been more important.

Under the Broadcasting Act 2009, 7pc of the TV licence fee is diverted to a broadcasting fund which goes to the independent sector  through the Sound and Vision Scheme. This figure was just under 5.9m in 2021, while State run national broadcasters received 78m for the same period.

This system is no longer fit for purpose and it is time to recognise that this money should be raised in a new way.

Such a move would provide additional funds of 50m - 75m to be used to help move both State broadcasting and independent media to a sustainable future. With such a development, a new Media Commission could develop a set of strategic supports for media in Ireland.

One option for the commission would be to establish a hub for coverage of public activities like courts, local councils etc, which might not otherwise be reported, at considerable loss to the local community, Senator Carrigy said.

A diverse range of trusted local media sources is fundamental to our society. The content created by local media is essential to ensuring our communities continue to receive accurate, up to date and diverse news stories. We must act now to protect this valuable sector.

Other recommendations in the submission include:

Continue existing business supports for the local media sector until the economic recovery is secured.

Recognise the reach of local media and its reputation as a reliable and authoritative news source when evaluating what constitutes public service in the media sector and when Government is disseminating public information content.

Develop a new, broader concept of what constitutes public service content in the media sector, acknowledging the way in which many sources of media outside the present supported segments provide a genuine public service to their communities, without which their fabric would be considerably weakened.

Deploy the extra revenue generated by this new licence fee mechanism to support content across the entire media sector, with a range of supports to build capacity of journalism and to develop innovative content to be used on diverse platforms.

Transpose the Copyright Directive in a manner which ensures a mechanism through which publishers are remunerated at an equitable rate for the use of their content, bearing in mind the very different market power of platforms and content providers.

Develop a verification mark for local media services to demonstrate reach and relevance and to instil confidence and trust among audiences.

Fulfil the Programme for Government commitments to: publish the statutory report on the Defamation Act (2009), and progress, publish and enact the Defamation Amendment Bill - the aim of which is to achieve an appropriate balance of the right to ones good name and freedom of expression.

The pandemic has shown us how important local news sources are for their readers and listeners. People rely heavily on trusted media outlets. To ensure this continues, they have to be supported by Government, concluded Senator Carrigy.
Longford / Westmeath Sinn Fein TD Sorca Clarke believes the reintroduction of urban councils would benefit towns like Longford.

Deputy Clarke commented, Many Borough and Town Councils which were abolished in 2014 by Fine Gael and Labour should be reintroduced.

"Towns like Longford could benefit massively from a more localised approach. The introduction of Municipal Areas was not met with adequate funding.

"The current model simply is not working and as such the needs of communities are not being met. Sinn Fein believe in devolving power to local communities and the reintroduction of urban councils which would help to address the current disconnect between local government and local communities.

Sinn Fein MEP Chris MacManus has also called for Longford County Council to be reformed and given a greater share of Government spending.

The Midlands Northwest MEP has highlighted the low level of local Government spending in Ireland compared to other EU Member States, and argues that this needs to change.



MEP MacManus said, As a former Councillor for 20 years I recognise the importance of local authorities and regard them as key stakeholders in the constituency. Since becoming an MEP I have engaged with County and City Councils on an ongoing basis in order to gain a better understanding of the different challenges faced by local authorities and the key issues facing each county and region.

The most common issue raised is the lack of funding for local authorities. Many struggle financially and find themselves with a significant level of debt. This has a detrimental effect on services provided by the Council as they attempt to balance the books by reducing spending. As a result roads and paths are neglected, the ability to get to grips on social housing needs and the private rental sector are seriously undermined and local amenities often cannot be delivered."

The Midlands Northwest MEP compared Irelands poor performance to other European member states.

Ireland is lags well behind our European counterparts in this regard. Out of the 27 EU Member States, Ireland is third from bottom when it comes to local government spending as a percentage of overall Government spending. Less than 10% of Irish government finances are allocated to local Councils, far less than half of the EU average of 22.5%.. This needs to change and local authorities such as Longford County Council must be adequately funded through progressive taxation.

He added, However, greater funding must be accompanied by reform of local government if it is to represent value for money. Too much power has been centralised, and real power and decision making should be placed in the hands of local authorities, particularly in the areas of housing, transport infrastructural needs including urban and rural public transport as well as in areas such as climate action and waste management. We also need to see the balance of power shifted from city and county managers to elected councillors, who are accountable to the people.
Local families were left gutted today after the UK Government announced plans to end all Troubles related prosecutions in Northern Ireland.

Many Derry families, both Protestant and Catholic, whose loved ones were killed throughout that period have criticised the proposals, alongside all political parties in NI.

Danny Tolands father John was killed by the UFF while working in the Happy Landing Bar in Eglinton in November, 1976.

Speaking to the Derry News, he said his family was left devastated by the announcement.

A civil case had been mounted through the courts which they fear will now come to an end.

A document published today by Secretary of State Brandon Lewis titled 'Addressing the Legacy of Northern Ireland's Past' does indicate that, as well as prosecutions, 'all current and future' inquests and civil cases will end.

Mr Toland said: I rang my mother this morning and were just completely gutted that they are planning to have an amnesty for everybody.

A killing is a killing no matter who is involved in it, if new evidence was to be presented then cases should be looked at again.

People on all sides will be affected by this.

I just dont agree with it at all, I cant get my head round it.

"My mother is 80 years of age and she was hoping for justice but she will possibly not see it now her lifetime, she's absolutely devastated this morning."

The Wave Trauma Centre, which has an office in Derry, is the largest cross community victims and survivors support group in Northern Ireland.

They wrote to the British Prime Minister saying: If anyone in Downing Street or the Ministry of Defence or the Northern Ireland Office seriously thinks that an amnesty of this nature can form the foundation upon which reconciliation could be built then it shows how little they understand the nature of the pain and trauma which continues to be suffered by victims and survivors and their families.

The majority of victims and survivors are only too aware that the chances of securing a conviction for crimes that are decades old are beyond remote.

But to deny them even that possibility by perverting the criminal justice system cannot be right in a country that prides itself on adherence to the rule of law.

Addressing the House of Commons today, Brandon Lewis said the process of dealing with the Troubles is not working and the focus on criminal investigations is unlikely to deliver justice but continues to divide communities.

Over 3,700 people were killed in the conflict and more than 47,000 injured.

The package announced by Mr Lewis includes a new independent body that would focus on the recovery of information relating to Troubles-related deaths and a major 'oral history' initiative.

As part of his proposals, Mr Lewis said a statute of limitations will apply equally to all Troubles related incidents.

We know that the prospect of an end to criminal prosecutions will be difficult for some to accept and this is not a position we take lightly," he told the House of Commons.

But we have come to the view that this is the best and only way to facilitate an effective information retrieval and provision process and the best way to help Northern Ireland move further along the road to reconciliation.

It is a painful recognition of the very reality of where we are.

He acknowledged it will be extremely difficult for some families to accept.

And said that as part of this, the British Government will deliver on its commitments to veterans who served in NI, many of whom remain fearful of being prosecuted, even though the vast majority acted in accordance with the law.

Shadow Secretary of State for NI, Louise Haigh, said that if reconciliation is the goal, then why is Mr Lewis and the British Government taking a sledgehammer to promises made in the past.

Ministers have decided, she said, that the rule of law no longer applies.

Foyle MP Colum Eastwood spoke of the death of Derry man Patsy Gillespie who was chained to the drivers seat of a van and ordered to drive to the Coshquin checkpoint on the Derry-Donegal border.

The IRA then remotely detonated that bomb killing Patsy and five soldiers, he added.

He asked if Mr Lewis would visit Mr Gillespies widow, Kathleen, and why he wants to protect his killers from prosecution and investigation.

The SoS accused the SDLP leader of using emotive language for soundbites on social media and said using someones harrowing experience and loss in that way says much about him.

He added that hed be happy to meet with any victim to explain what is achievable and why NI needs to move forward in a positive way.

Along with other conservative MPs, Prime Minister Boris Johnson repeated past comments about vexatious prosecutions of elderly soldiers.
A burglar who was caught after his DNA was found on an empty bottle he left behind in the victims bedroom has been jailed for three and a half years.

William Nolan (31) also left DNA in a sock that was found beside the house, which he had taken from the victims home to cover his hand so as not to leave fingerprints at the scene.

Nolan stole jewellery and a BMW from the homeowners. He later told gardai that he sold them for about 300 or 400 to get money for drugs.

The court heard that the burglary was one of a tsunami of offences Nolan carried out at the time while he was addicted to tablets.

Nolan, of Kiltalown Path, Jobstown, Tallaght, Dublin, was jailed for eight and half years in April 2020 by Judge Pauline Codd.

He had pleaded guilty to burglary, criminal damage and endangerment at various locations in Tallaght on May 4, 2019. He also pleaded guilty to burglary at Allied Foods, Tallaght, on March 29, 2019. He is due for release in 2025 on these charges.

On Wednesday, Nolan was sentenced on a separate offence after he pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal to burglary of a house in Ranelagh and theft of the homeowners car on May 1, 2019.

He has 148 previous convictions for offences including criminal damage, burglary, theft, endangerment, stealing cars and road traffic offences.

Judge Elma Sheahan sentenced him to five years with the final 18 months.

She commended Detective Garda Derek McGrath for the fairness in which he presented the evidence in the case after he told the court that Nolan genuinely had no recollection of the burglary because of his level of intoxication.

Judge Sheahan accepted that Nolans remorse is genuine and he wishes to rehabilitate and turn things around for himself and his family.

She said the court accepted that Nolan should be encouraged to deal with his addiction and suspended the final 18 months of the five-year term on the condition that he engage with the Probation Service for two years and undergo any courses recommended to him.

Det Gda McGrath said that when questioned by gardai in August 2020, Nolan genuinely had no recollection of the burglary, but admitted that he had been committing burglaries in that area at the time.

He also admitted that he usually would take a sock from the house to cover his hand so as not to leave behind fingerprints.

Det Gda McGrath told Pieter Le Vert BL, prosecuting, that the homeowners were not there at the time and came home to find their house ransacked, jewellery taken and the car missing.

The man noticed that an empty bottle was sitting on the bed in the couples bedroom and later found his wifes sock in a lane near the house, both of which he handed over to gardai.

Det Gda McGrath said that it took over a year for the results in relation to the DNA to come back to him which was why there was a delay in the prosecution of the case.

He said Nolan told him in interview that he was abusing tablets at the time, that he had been buying on the street and it had been the worst point in his life.

Det Gda McGrath agreed with a suggestion from Mr Le Vert that the addiction had a devastating effect on him physically and mentally, in that he lost his family and freedom and anything else important to him.

It was a sad situation, the detective said before he accepted that there was no violence in his nature when Nolan was off tablets.

He wanted to help us with his enquires, Det Gda McGrath said before he added that he believes Nolans remorse was genuine.

Sarah-Jane OCallaghan BL, defending, told Judge Sheahan that her client is willing to put his hands up and admit that he has made shocking decisions.

She said a letter from him speaks to the fact that he has made these choices and he cannot blame anyone before counsel outlined that he had a difficult background.

Nolans mother left the family because of the level of violence in the home and Nolan then bore the brunt of all that violence from his father, Ms OCallaghan said.

She said her client hopes to turn his life around. Only time will tell if he can form a proper relationship with his two children, whom he adores, counsel submitted.

Ms OCallaghan also suggested that if the forensics in the case had not delayed the prosecution, this offence could have been dealt with in the other cases in April 2020.
Business & Finance, Community, Charity & Cause

By Chris Boyle Published: July 15 2021

Boost Nassau Recovery Center compiles federal, state, county and town COVID-19 recovery assistance resources into a website and resource center.

Nassau County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton (D - Glen Cove) is going door-to-door to spread the word about the opportunities that are available through the Boost Nassau Resource Center.

Recently, Legislator DeRiggi-Whitton, who serves as the Minority Caucus representative on Nassau County Executive Laura Currans COVID-19 Economic Advisory Council, toured downtown Glen Cove with Mayor Tim Tenke and Glen Cove Business Improvement District (BID) Executive Director Patricia Holman to spread the word.

During their visits to stores, they urged small business owners to secure their fair share of assistance by availing themselves of the Boost Nassau Recovery Center, which compiles federal, state, county and town-level COVID-19 recovery assistance resources into a centralized website and brick-and-mortar resource center in Eisenhower Park. Legislator DeRiggi-Whitton will be continuing these visits to business districts throughout the 11th Legislative District in the weeks ahead.
This portrait of the Lugo family, circa 1888, is part of the Los Altos History Museums latest exhibition, Gold Fever!
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15th July 2021

Runtime 18:32

ECSG are an AIM-listed, UK-based cyber security specialist who have been protecting companies from hacks, cyber attacks and ransomeware threats for twentysomething years now. London South East interviewed the CEO Ian Mann about the company's latest Trading Results for the half year which were announced yesterday morning, and he told us "We either prevent, monitor or fix these problems, sort of like a fourth emergency service."

As well as a strong set of half year results, Ian announced that the time was right for them to grow the business internationally, not just in the UK and Australia where they already have 24 hour security operations centres.

"Lots of people want to buy our business at the moment, and we get one serious offer to buy the business per month. But we want to take the business internationally, we think we have the relevant experience. Lockdown taught us how to work remotely, and we know now we have the tools and the technologies we need to go out and compete on a bigger scale. We [the management team] are here for the long term."

And what about the competition? "We know Darktrace sell some software, and they make claims about how clever this software is, and that software can help you detect things yourselves. Lots of companies make lots of marketing claims, what they don't tell you is - what level of expertise do you need to configure and make this product work for you? There's nothing wrong with the products, the people selling the products don't also tell you the level of expertise you need. You can install something like Darktrace and you get lots of results - well who is going to interpret those results? Who is going to look at it at 2 o'clock in the morning? In a breach those tools often provided clues but people missed it." explained Ian.
(Alliance News) - The UK government has been accused of a "double standard" on international travel after it was announced Ibiza, Mallorca and Menorca would be added to the amber travel list due to a surge in coronavirus cases, little more than a fortnight after they went green.

The change for those returning to England, Scotland and Wales from Spain's Balearic Islands will take place at 4am on Monday, potentially sparking a rush for holidaymakers to return to avoid the need to quarantine.

Johan Lundgren, chief executive of easyJet PLC, noted Covid-19 infection rates were rising in the UK but remained lower in much of Europe.

"So we cannot understand why the government is going to allow people to go to a nightclub a without a mask or social distancing a and yet is not comfortable with people going to the beaches of Europe, where the infection rates are lower than in the UK," Lundgren said.

"Yet again we see this double standard where travel is treated differently to the domestic economy."

Younger adults will mainly be impacted because the change coincides with the end of the need to quarantine for fully-vaccinated UK residents and under 18s when returning from amber list nations.

Airlines UK Chief Executive Tim Alderslade said the move reinforced the belief the government's framework for international travel "is not working as it was designed to".

"While the vaccination programme is permitting a full reopening of the domestic economy, international travel between safe countries a with low infections and high vaccination rates a is still being portrayed as though it is a serious danger to public health.

"Moving countries between the tiers like this is shattering consumer trust during an already unpredictable booking season. It is time the government implemented a consistent and transparent travel policy, rather than the current rollercoaster ride of changes, which is condemning international travel to the status of second-class citizen."

A spokesperson for ABTA a The Travel Association said that adding the Balearics to the amber list was a step back for the travel industry.

"Thousands of travel jobs and businesses are in desperate need of a successful summer season, and this further emphasises the urgent need for tailored financial support for a sector that has struggled to make any meaningful revenue for almost 18 months now," they said.

"Helpfully, from Monday, fully-vaccinated travellers returning to England, Scotland and Wales from amber list countries will no longer need to self-isolate or take an additional test on day eight, so this will minimise the disruption for vaccinated holidaymakers, but quarantine for non-vaccinated travellers remains a significant obstacle.

"Consumer confidence is essential if the industry is to trade its way out of this crisis, so the government must be more transparent about the criteria being used to move countries between the green, amber and red lists to allow travel businesses and customers alike to plan ahead.

"The government also needs to continue to capitalise on the successful vaccine rollout by expanding the green list in line with scientific evidence and reducing the need for and cost of testing, which is a significant barrier to travel for many people. Sufficient border control resource must also be provided at our ports and airports to help make travel as smooth as possible."

Meanwhile, Bulgaria and Hong Kong will be added to the green list a meaning there is no requirement to isolate on return for any travellers regardless of the vaccination status.

Croatia and Taiwan will be added to the "green watchlist", meaning there is no need for anyone to quarantine but they are at risk of going amber.

The British Virgin Islands will also go amber, while Cuba, Indonesia, Myanmar and Sierra Leone will be added to the red list requiring 10 days of isolation in a quarantine hotel.

UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said measures for the Balearics were being upgraded due to case rates having doubled since they were added to the green list on June 30.

By Benjamin Cooper, PA

source: PA

Copyright 2021 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
(Alliance News) - Starcom PLC on Thursday announced that its current indications show revenue for the first half of 2021 at USD2 million, despite a shortage of microprocessors and Covid-19 impacting the company.

For the same period a year prior, Starcom's revenue was GBP2.3 million, reflecting a 13% drop.

Shares in Starcom were down 16% at 0.84 pence each in London on Thursday.

Starcom is a company based in Jersey, Channel Islands, specializing in wireless systems for remote tracking, monitoring and protection of a variety of assets.

Starcom has continued to be impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, with many customers deferring their normal trading and others still in lockdown, although it has started to see increased activity from some customers.

At the same time, the global supply shortage of microprocessors and some other products is having a significant impact both for Starcom and many other companies, as well as significant price rises in component parts, and some orders for customers have been delayed as a result.

However, the company is beginning to see increased interest in its Lokies and Tetis products and expect to see results from this in the second half of the year and thereafter. The recent award from DHL for its Lokies product gives Starcom confidence that this product should help drive further growth in its business over the next few years.

Starcom expects to publish its interim in the next month.

By Amrit Sahota; newsroom@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2021 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
(Alliance News) - Retail-focused property developer Hammerson PLC on Thursday said its rent collections for have continued to improve since retail spaces reopened in Europe.

"We expect all rent collections to continue to improve as remaining Covid-related restrictions are lifted," the Johannesburg and London duel-listed firm said.

Non-essential retail has resumed in the regions where Hammerson holds key venues, with shops re-opening from April 12 in the UK, and in May for Ireland and France.

The London-based company noted that, after an initial re-opening spike, average seven-day retail footfall has settled around 70% to 80% of 2019 levels. Hammerson added that retailers report higher sales and conversion rates as visitors now are more likely to "shop with purpose".

However, restrictions continue to effect hospitality, leisure and cinema operators in particular, the company noted. Hammerson said that the operational impact of additional restrictions in France from July 21 remain to be seen.

France recently announced renewed coronavirus restrictions which will come into effect on Wednesday next week.

Nevertheless, with restrictions generally easing, the firm said it has taken 89% of the rent billed in 2020, collecting GBP211 million of the total GBP264 million now owed.

In March, Hammerson said it collected net rental income of GBP157.6 million in 2020, down 49% from GBP308.5 million in 2019.

The impact of the pandemic was evident as the firm's pretax loss widened dramatically to GBP1.73 billion in 2020, from GBP779.3 million in 2019.

Since then the developer has waived, written off or delayed payment of GBP12 million of the GBP112 million due in the first half of 2021. Of the GBP100 million remaining, Hammerson has received GBP68 million, or 68%.

In comparison, by April 20 the company had collected 46% of the GBP113.6 million due in the first half.

To date, Hammerson has taken 47% of the rent due in the third quarter of 2021, or GBP18 million of the GBP42 million owed. However, the company noted that rent due in the third quarter of 2021 has been collected more quickly than the first and second quarters.

So far in 2021, Hammerson has collected 62% of rents owed, taking GBP86 million of the GBP154 million due with a further GBP15 million written off, waived or not yet due.

The company said it does not expect to grant future concessions to tenants and will continue to pursue rent owed via "all avenues" in the coming year.

Shares in Hammerson were trading down 1.6% at 35.54 pence each in London and down 3.5% at ZAR7.14 each in Johannesburg on Thursday.

By Scarlett Butler; scarlettbutler@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2021 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
(Alliance News) - Ireland will not sign up to global tax reform plans, Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe insisted Thursday, entrenching the Republic's hold-out position as momentum accelerates for a deal meant to ensure multinationals pay their fair share.

Around 132 countries have already agreed to the reforms on international taxation, including a minimum corporate rate of 15%.

On Saturday, finance ministers from the G20 a 19 largest global economies plus the EU a backed the historic deal.

But Ireland a which levies a 12.5% corporation tax rate and is considered by some a "tax haven" a will not endorse the plans as they stand, Donohoe said.

"What is on the table at the moment is an agreement that Ireland cannot be part of," he told Irish state broadcaster RTE.

"We are committed to the negotiation to see if we can enter the agreement at some point, but I'm making the case for 12.5%," Donohoe said.

"It has been a key feature of our economic policy now for decades."

His comments came after the Irish Examiner reported that Dublin plans to relinquish its 12.5% rate for fear of international "pariah" status.

"Ireland will continue to make the case for the rights of small countries to retain some competitive advantage, but we don't want to be an outlier in terms of a global tax deal," a senior government source was quoted as saying.

The newspaper reported Ireland plans to make concessions on its 12.5% rate a which has lured numerous US tech and pharma firms to its shores a as part of a new OECD tax agreement in October.

But Donohoe said agreeing to 15% proposals would create "issues" for "people who've invested in our economy, and have expectations regarding the predictability of our rate in the future."

source: AFP

Copyright 2021 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
(Alliance News) - Severn Trent PLC on Thursday left its outlook unchanged after a "strong start" to its financial year, with the water company adding it is on track to invest up to GBP650 million in green projects.

In addition, Ofwat, the UK water industry watchdog, said the sector will commit GBP2.7 billion toward "building back greener".

Coventry-based Severn Trent hailed a "strong start to the year operationally" and affirmed annual guidance. It targets GBP1.78 billion to GBP1.81 billion of revenue in its Regulated Water & Waste Water business. The unit includes its wholesale water and retail services arm. Revenue there came in at GBP1.62 billion in the year that ended March 31, so Severn Trent expects growth of as much as 12% in the current financial year.

"We have made a strong start to the year operationally, focused on delivering a great service for our customers, and are confident of achieving at least GBP40 million positive net outperformance on customer outcome delivery incentives," Severn Trent said.

"On our capital schemes, we are on track to invest GBP550-GBP650 million this year, including our Green Recovery projects."

Severn Trent plans to release interim results on November 23.

In addition, UK water regulator Ofwat unveiled plans for sector-wide investment in green schemes.

"The water sector will invest GBP2.7 billion to deliver lasting environmental improvements for current and future generations," it said.

Some of this investment will come from listed firms. Severn Trent and United Utilities Group PLC, both FTSE 100 members, are among those Ofwat named. Among the other firms named is South West Water, owned by FTSE 250-constituent Pennon Group PLC.

Alongside South Staffs Water, South West Water and Thames Water, Severn and United will invest an extra GBP793 million between them on top of their existing PR19 packages. This will go towards "the green economic recovery", Ofwat said.

PR19 is the most recent Ofwat price review and outlines the level of investment water companies must make to deliver services to customers.

"These companies, along with seven others in England, are also bringing forward GBP1.9 billion worth of investment in additional statutory environment schemes into the 2020-25 period," Ofwat added.

"The final decision to give the green light on the additional investment will allow water companies to take extra action on the most pressing environmental issues."

Ofwat added that Severn Trent will invest GBP169 million to improve water quality in 500 kilometres of rivers, equal to the distance between London and Carlisle, in the north east of England.

Alongside Pennon's South West Water, Severn Trent and United Utilities will invest GBP158 million in a bid to reduce harm from storm overflows. They also will trial creating bathing rivers.

Ofwat added: "In addition, United Utilities and South West Water will deliver a range of nature-based solutions in partnership with local stakeholders. Severn Trent Water will work closely with local authorities to reduce flooding - developing natural flood management and green urban landscape solutions which will prevent rainwater entering the system in the first place."

Severn Trent shares were 0.7% higher at 2,695.00 pence each in London on Thursday morning. United Utilities was 0.1% higher at 1,039.00p. Pennon's stock was up 1.1% at 1,231.76p.

By Eric Cunha; ericcunha@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2021 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
15 July 2021

Press Release

Sancrai-1 Gas Discovery

Jersey, Channel Islands, 15 July 2021 -- Serinus Energy plc ("Serinus", "SEN" or the "Company") (AIM:SENX, WSE:SEN), is pleased to announce that the drilling of the Sancrai - 1 well has discovered gas. The drilling of the well has concluded achieving the total planned drilling depth of 1,600 metres. The well was drilled five days ahead of schedule and approximately 19% below budget.

Continuous formation gas shows were recorded over 20 metres of gross pay over four sand intervals from the measured depths of 855 metres to 875 metres. At this drilling interval the measured total gas ranged from 5.5% to 11.1% with an estimated average porosity of between 23% and 27%. Open-hole petrophysical analysis undertaken during the drilling operations has further confirmed this gas-bearing Pliocene sand zone. The Company will now proceed to perforate and test the Pliocene sand zone prior to completing the well for future production.

This newly discovered gas field lies approximately 7.8 km to the south of the Moftinu Gas Development project and provides Serinus with a high value, high return development opportunity similar to the Moftinu Gas Development project. The close proximity of the Sancrai - 1 well to the Moftinu Gas Plant provides the Company with the option to bring this well onto commercial production while drilling additional appraisal development wells into the structure in order to fully delineate the gas field.

The Board of Directors and the Management of the Company are very pleased to have discovered a new gas field in Romania as it provides further affirmation of the Company's belief that there are multiple shallow gas fields within the Satu Mare Concession Area.

Competent Persons Statement

In accordance with the AIM Rules for Companies, the technical information contained in this announcement has been reviewed and approved by Ms. Alexandra Damascan, President of Serinus Energy Romania. Ms. Damascan is a qualified person as defined in the London Stock Exchange's Guidance Note for Mining and Oil and Gas Companies and is authorized by the Romanian National Agency for Mineral Resources (NAMR) as a specialist with professional and technical competencies to conduct petroleum operations. Ms. Damascan has a Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Oil and Gas in Ploiesti, Romania, and a Master's degree in Oil and Gas Business Administration, specialized in oil, gas, and mining from the same university. She has over 13 years of oil and gas exploration and development experience.

About Serinus

Serinus is an international upstream oil and gas exploration and production company that owns and operates projects in Tunisia and Romania.

For further information, please refer to the Serinus website (www.serinusenergy.com) or contact the following:

Serinus Energy plc Jeffrey Auld, Chief Executive Officer Andrew Fairclough, Chief Financial Officer Calvin Brackman, Vice President, External Relations & Strategy +44 204 541 7859 Arden Partners plc (Nominated Adviser & Joint Broker) Paul Shackleton (Corporate Finance) Tim Dainton (Equity Sales) +44 207 614 5900 Shore Capital Stockbrokers Limited (Joint Broker) Toby Gibbs / John More (Corporate Advisory) Jerry Keen (Corporate Broking) +44 207 408 4090 Camarco (Financial PR - London) Owen Roberts Phoebe Pugh +44 203 781 8334 TBT i Wspolnicy (Financial PR - Warsaw) Katarzyna Terej +48 602 214 353

Forward Looking Statement Disclaimer

This release may contain forward-looking statements made as of the date of this announcement with respect to future activities that either are not or may not be historical facts. Although the Company believes that its expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date hereof, any potential results suggested by such statements involve risk and uncertainties and no assurance can be given that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. Various factors that could impair or prevent the Company from completing the expected activities on its projects include that the Company's projects experience technical and mechanical problems, there are changes in product prices, failure to obtain regulatory approvals, the state of the national or international monetary, oil and gas, financial , political and economic markets in the jurisdictions where the Company operates and other risks not anticipated by the Company or disclosed in the Company's published material. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature, they involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and actual results may vary materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statement. The Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements in this announcement to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this announcement, unless required by law.

Translation: This news release has been translated into Polish from the English original.
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Jefferson, GA (30549)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms during the morning becoming more widespread this afternoon. High near 80F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Showers and thunderstorms likely. Low 68F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
TUI Nederland is cancelling holiday packages to the Balearics as from Friday (July 16), which is when the Dutch government will be issuing a new travel advice against travelling to the Balearics. The islands' status will be altered to orange, the second level on the Dutch system. The Balearics and the Canaries have been yellow, equivalent to the UK green. The new status will apply until at least August 2.

The Dutch government is specifying all the individual islands in the Balearics and the Canaries, leading a TUI spokesperson to say that the government and the rest of the authorities "unfortunately do not distinguish between islands".

From July 18, holidaymakers returning to the Netherlands from the Balearics and who have not been vaccinated will need to present a negative test.

Meanwhile, it is possible that the German government will on Friday formally recommend against travelling to the Balearics because of the rise in infections.
The Balearic government is confident that the islands will not be placed on Britains red list. There has been newspaper speculation in the United Kingdom that the islands would be placed in the top travel alert category.

However, this was dismissed by the Balearic government this morning who underlined the fact that the islands were a safe holiday destination.

The British government announced on Wednesday night that the islands would be placed on Britains amber travel list which means that those people have have not had the double jab would have to quarantine on their return.

Since the announcement there has been a massive rise in demand for holidays to Croatia.
Russ, age 88 died unexpectedly following surgery in Tucson where he was living. Happily he had seen his family in MN in May. His memorial service date is pending to be held at Woodland Hills in Mankato, MN.
The fifth round of leaked audio clips featuring Real Madrid president Florentino Perez have been released, and this time it shows the 74-year-old going after the Spanish media.

The recordings are from between March 2007 and October 2012, with the Real Madrid chief keen to exert his influence over some of the major players in Spain.

"We have to win the battle of MARCA and Television Espanola [TVE]," Florentino Perez is heard saying in the clips, which have once again been published by El Confidencial.

"And with that isolate [them], not El Pais, which does not behave badly, but [then-director of AS, Alfredo] Relano and [the host of El Transistor on Onda Cero, Jose Ramon] De la Morena.

"El Rondo [a programme on TVE] will no longer exist. If it's for months, it'll be killed off in no time. If it's for seasons, we'll have to wait for the summer.

"Luis Fernandez is a Real Madrid fanatic. He already took away Roberto Gomez's contract, just to make a point. El Rondo will no longer exist. It's going to be a Real Madrid programme by [Antonio Garcia] Ferreras".

As such, Florentino Perez hatched a plan to try and assert some control over MARCA and TVE.

"We have nothing left but MARCA. Now we have to take MARCA, mate," said Florentino Perez.

"Because with MARCA and Television Espanola [TVE] it's all over. They no longer have anyone and the others will be ashamed to be left alone. Because right now MARCA is with them. It's frightening."

There were also clips relating to the Real Madrid president's relationship with the Prisa Group, which has El Pais, AS and Cadena SER amongst its holdings.

"We have to unite the rest. Everyone against Prisa," stated Florentino Perez.

"And what about [AS journalist Tomas] Roncero? If someone says something to Roncero, he crumples.

"The fact is that in the demand that is necessary to [act] now once the secrecy of summary proceedings is lifted.

"We have to go after him. We have to go after Roncero criminally."
McAlester, OK (74501)

Today

Isolated thunderstorms this morning, then partly cloudy during the afternoon hours. High 88F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Mostly clear. Low 69F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
McAlester, OK (74501)

Today

Sun and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 88F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mostly clear. Low 68F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
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Atlanta, GA (30303)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms during the morning becoming more widespread this afternoon. High 77F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%..

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Atlanta, GA (30303)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms this morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. High 77F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Showers and thunderstorms likely. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
'You don't have to be an adult to make a difference': First Baptist VBS raises over $1,300 for Restoration Rome
Roswell, GA (30075)

Today

Isolated thunderstorms this morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. High 79F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Showers and thunderstorms likely. Low 68F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
Malaria Program Lead  Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases

Title: Malaria Program Lead, MACEPA

Location: Kinshasa, the DRC

Division: Africa Region

*Please include a cover letter with your resume describing your interest in the position and how you meet the qualifications.

PATH is a global nonprofit dedicated to achieving health equity. With more than 40 years of experience forging multisector partnerships, and with expertise in science, economics, technology, advocacy, and dozens of other specialties, PATH develops and scales up innovative solutions to the worlds most pressing health challenges.

PATH is home to the Malaria Control and Evaluation Partnership in Africa (MACEPA) which works closely with National Malaria Control programs in Africa to strengthen data systems and data use to better inform strategies and targeting of resources to reduce burden. Key components of this work are to generate evidence on novel and existing malaria tools to guide decision-makers, and to work with donors to ensure the resources needed to implement these interventions are available.

PATH is seeking a Malaria Program Lead for MACEPA, based in the DRC. PATH is seeking a highly motivated individual with strong project management skills, public health experience, robust analytical and writing skills, and extensive organization and communication skills. S/he is responsible for providing strategic and technical direction and implementation of research and project(s) design and seen as the subject matter expert in their respective technical area. The MACEPA Malaria Program Lead will report to the Director of Programs.

Responsibilities:

Lead MACEPAs technical assistance and support to the PNLP in the areas of surveillance, monitoring and evaluation, operational research, improved generation and use of data for decision making.

Direct program support to the government in using data for decision-making for optimized malaria interventions.

Support the development of strategic and technical documents and resource mobilization efforts

Lead technical and managerial planning, and implementation of MACEPA activities in DRC Assess MACEPAs progress against goals and donor commitments to measure impact, identify program bottlenecks or weaknesses, devise solutions to strengthen programs as necessary and ensure teams are consistently updated on progress and results.

Maintain and grow strong relationships with government and partner organizations working on malaria in the DRC to coordinate MACEPAs support.

Evaluate the potential for new tools or strategies to contribute to national strategic plans and, as appropriate, facilitate the process for planning and rolling out these tools.

Facilitate knowledge-sharing across global, regional, and country-based team-members to institutionalize knowledge and ensure consistency of PATHs technical and operational support to malaria programs.

Work with PATHs global technical advisors and PATH DRCs Senior Management Team to set strategic areas for expansion and guide strategic planning or partnerships development as needed.

Disseminate outputs through high-quality presentations, reports, and publications and communicate them internally and externally.

Represent PATH at regional meetings and conferences, manage relationship and coordination with regional bodies.

Manage in-country malaria program staff, including the Technical Program Manager, Senior Data Officer, and other technical staff.

Required skills and experience:

Advance degree in public health, medicine, social sciences, business or related field, and a minimum of 10 years of experience providing technical assistance in support of malaria control and elimination objectives, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience working with government institutions, local community organizations, donors and other stakeholders (particularly at the sub-national level), informing development of strategy, policy and operational plans, preferably in malaria control and elimination.

Experience and understanding of the DRC health system context and malaria programming at the national and sub-national levels.

Demonstrated experience managing technical programming against work plan commitments, designing and implementing technical activities, and communicating inputs/outputs/outcomes of activities.

Experience managing junior and mid-level technical staff members.

Demonstrated understanding and experience in support systems for malaria control and elimination.

Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, multi-site, multi-year project, including managing partner collaboration, experience with cross-cultural teams highly desirable.

Demonstrated ability to think strategically with strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Demonstrated skills in collaboration and diplomacy and commitment to achieving project objectives.

Fluency in French and professional proficiency in English with excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.

Female candidates are highly encouraged to apply.

Must have legal authorization to work in DRC

PATH is dedicated to building an inclusive workforce where diversity is valued.

PATH is an equal opportunity employer. Every qualified applicant will be considered for employment. PATH does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or orientation, genetic information, age, national origin, marital status, disability status, political ideology, military or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Veuillez cliquer sur le lien ci-dessous pour soumettre votre candidature :

https://path.silkroad.com/epostings/index.cfm?fuseaction=app.jobinfo&id=23&jobid=305065&company_id=15780&version=1&source=ONLINE&JobOwner=1013109&level=levelid2&levelid2=24928&startflag=3
Senior Communications Officer  DRC

Title: Senior Communications Officer

Location: Kinshasa

Division: DRC Country Program

PATH is a global nonprofit dedicated to achieving health equity. With more than 40 years of experience forging multisector partnerships, and with expertise in science, economics, technology, advocacy, and dozens of other specialties, PATH develops and scales up innovative solutions to the worlds most pressing health challenges.

Working closely with Congolese communities and government leaders, PATH addresses some of the Democratic Republic of Congos (DRC) toughest health challenges. We apply our on-the-ground expertise to HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, digital health and neglected tropical diseases as well as reproductive, maternal, and child health. Our work includes advocating at the national level to strengthen funding for essential health interventions, such as immunization; providing targeted technical assistance; leveraging our relationships with funders, private industry, community-based organizations, and others for sustainable results; and adapting and introducing innovative, low-cost technologies and evidence-based best practices. Our operational presence in the DRC has grown steadily since 2009.

PATH DRC is looking to hire a Senior Communications Officer to develop and implement communications strategies to advance public health goals. The officer will support advocacy and programmatic work in DRC and will report to the Director of Programs, DRC.

Responsibilities:

1. Devise and execute PATH DRCs communication strategy in support of programmatic and advocacy goals to advance health equity in the DRC, specifically:

Envision and execute communications activities in support of PATHs programmatic goals in the DRC across a vast portfolio of projects in Malaria, HIV/AIDS, Immunization, Digital Health and Emergency response and preparedness.



Work closely with RPMs, the Director of Programs and the Country Director to understand program activities and communications needs and advise on tactics.



Coordinate with Regional and Seattle-based communications colleagues to prioritize and assign resources, as well as to ensure communications activities are well executed, tied to the institution-wide strategy, and aligned with the realities and norms of communications work in the DRC.



Identify key target audiences and prepare key messages that will result in decision-making and actions. This also includes to proactively identify opportunities, priority events and platforms to reach target audiences in the DRC.



Develop and manage communications materials from concept to completion through research, writing, editing, and proofreading content in order to reach key stakeholder audiencese.g. fact sheets, policy briefs, blogs, op-eds, presentations, web copy, and op-eds.



Conceptualize, develop and implement national media outreach strategies for major milestones.



Plan effective events and meetings to convene decision makers and influencers.



Manage communications vendors, such as media relations firms and graphic designers.



Assist in developing, strengthening, and supporting PATHs relationships with key Ministry of Health and other agencies, civil society partners, and multilateral organizations, particularly when it comes to coordinating on communications activities.

2. Lead PATH DRCs internal communication efforts to foster team collaboration and knowledge sharing across the organization:

Work with PATH DRCs Senior Management Team to establish a communication strategy specific to organizational needs, including use of media (Microsoft Teams, Zoom, monitors) to share important operational, programmatic and security developments.



Support planning and facilitation of PATH DRC meetings (all-staff, senior management team, brown bags) and project-specific meetings.



Manage knowledge sharing across the organization to ensure that all staff are kept up to date with important project and/or organizational developments, share information and lessons learned.



Any other tasks assigned by Supervisor/Country Director



Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Required skills and experience:

Degree in communications or related field, and a minimum of 3-5 years of experience in communications and media relations and/or a combination or work and education experience.

Experience in health and familiarity with immunization, infectious diseases or MNCH in the DRC context

Demonstrated ability to translate highly technical information for effective communication to a wide range of audiences.

Demonstrated experience in developing messages and communications activities to influence decision makers.

Demonstrated experience in engaging media both at national and provincial level.

Excellent written and oral communication skills in English and French.

Self-starter, proactive and positive with a solutions-oriented attitude and works with minimal supervision.

Deadline driven, ability to juggle multiple priorities and deliver them on time.

Expertise in computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Current legal authorization to work in DRC preferred.

PATH is dedicated to building an inclusive workforce where diversity is valued.

PATH is an equal opportunity employer. Every qualified applicant will be considered for employment. PATH does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or orientation, genetic information, age, national origin, marital status, disability status, political ideology, military or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.



*PATH has become aware of scams involving false job offers.*

Please advise:

PATH will never ask for a fee during any stage of the recruitment process.

All active jobs are advertised directly on our career's page.

Official PATH emails will always arrive from an @path.org or @silkroad.com address.

Please report any suspicious communications to careersitehelp@path.org.

Veuillez cliquer sur le lien ci-dessous pour soumettre votre candidature :

https://path.silkroad.com/epostings/index.cfm?fuseaction=app.jobinfo&id=23&jobid=305082&company_id=15780&version=1&source=ONLINE&JobOwner=1013258&level=levelid2&levelid2=24924&startflag=3
The fact that food dominates every single area of our lives as Indians (or Asians, if you want me to be more apt here) irrespective of the region we live in or the language we speak, is a no-brainer. I recently lost two of my family members to COVID, and while saying goodbye to them, I had to eat whatever they loved to eat, for 10 days, as a part of the rituals. If that doesn't count as the biggest reminder to what food means to us, I don't know what does.

 HotStar

Even though I immensely enjoy watching culinary shows and believe that all of them are special in their own way, this year's Masterchef Australia came as a massive surprise. While a talented gentleman of Indian-Origin, Justin Narayan, emerged as the winner, vindicating the superior palette syndrome of desis across the globe, it was the runner up, Kishwar Chowdhury from Bangladesh, who ended up winning hearts - inside and outside of Australia, Bangladesh, and not to mention, India.



Kishwar guided Bengalis all across the world back to their roots, one dish at a time, while smashing her way into the grand finale in a way that just felt effortless, much like her dishes. Be it her signature curries with the all-familiar spices or the desserts that every Bengali could almost taste, like the 'Mishti Paan' that Mel referred to as a 'love letter to Bangladesh', every time the timer started, she not only secured her place in the competition by cutting, chopping and frying her way through it, she also fiercely cemented the intrinsically held belief of every Bong that perhaps nothing touches Bengali food when it comes to the 'soul' of a cuisine.

Having said that, she went ahead and did something for the finale that can only be described as 'unthinkable' by Bengalis all across the globe. She served as her finale dish, to the judges of one of the most prestigious culinary shows in the world, a dish called 'Panta Bhat'.

For the uninitiated, Panta Bhat is a cold, water-soaked, almost fermented dish that is famous as a peasant dish in the poverty-stricken villages of Bengal. This is a dish that is not traditionally associated with celebrations or prosperity, instead, it has its soul rooted in the pain, the sweat, and the struggle of Bengalis who did not have the privilege of fancy ingredients or expensive food grains.

 HotStar

As someone whose ancestors belonged to current Bangladesh (erstwhile East Pakistan), and had seen the horrors of the partition that resulted in overnight poverty, I have heard many stories from my grandmother, where the only food they could afford sometimes, even for my parents, was 'Panta Bhat'. It was not a glamorous dish. It was humble, but special in hindsight, because it kept them alive. Mothers, daughters, sisters cooked that daily - not because they could cook it brilliantly, but because that was all they had, for which they received no appreciation, no gratitude.



The fact that someone would attempt to reclaim our humble 'Panta Bhat' and unapologetically plate it as 'global cuisine', without altering its essence, the plate replete with Aloo Bhorta (Bengali style mashed potato) and a Lonka Poda (a burnt, dried red chilli that lends the dish an inimitable smokey flavour), was a sudden, intense trip down memory lane for every single Bengali out there, for which we weren't prepared.

The Panta Bhat along with the Aloo Bhorta, despite being virtual entities, were enough to unlock the waterworks. Please keep in mind, I'm a grown-ass Bengali man. The sight of that dish on screen took me right back to my childhood, in a flash. The humid summer afternoons, sometimes with a storm raging behind, the touch of my mother's cotton sarees drying in the courtyard, us kids scrambling to collect unripened green mangoes, grandma bribing us with a story so that we'd eat dinner without fuss; sometimes, that dinner would be a bowl of Panta Bhat, with some Aloo Bhorta and a chilli on top.

She didn't just plate a dish, she unleashed a flood of emotions that touched places that were lying barren for a long, long time for countless Bengali foodies out there. (If you know, you know.) Kishwar, if you are reading this, I would like to use this platform to take the liberty of saying the most heartfelt 'thank you' to you for doing this. You are, and will remain, an absolute star for us new-age, love-starved Bengali foodies.
A Christian group has now taken objection to the title of Kareena Kapoors new book and has filed a police complaint against the actress for 'hurting the religious sentiments' of the Christian community.



Alpha Omega Christian Mahasangh president Ashish Shinde has written a formal complaint at Shivaji Nahar Police Station in Beed over the book which also has another author.

In the complaint, Shinde mentioned the title of the book, Pregnancy Bible, which is written by Kareena Kapoor and Aditi Shah Bhimjani, and published by Juggernaut Books.



The holy word Bible is used in the books title and Shinde said it has hurt the religious sentiments of Christians.

Now, he has filed a case under the IPC section 295-A (deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs) against Kareena Kapoor and the two others.

A police official confirmed receiving a complaint about the same but an FIR hasnt been filed yet.



Shivaji Nagar Police Station in-charge Inspector Sainath Thombre told PTI, We have received the complaint but no case can be registered here as the incident has not happened here (in Beed). I have advised him to file a complaint in Mumbai.

Kareena launched her book on July 9. Calling the book her 'third child', the 40-year-old actress, who gave birth to her second child, a boy, in February this year, shared a series of posts to promote the book on social media.
When celebrities and actors get involved in a good photoshoot, the images that turn out are nothing short of magical.



 MensXP

Well, Kartik Aaryan was recently a part of such a photoshoot with celebrity photographer Dabboo Ratnani, and man, did he impress.



 Instagram/kartikaaryan

The photoshoot was for his upcoming calendar, which has become a hallmark for celebrities. Each year, Ratnani shoots 12 different celebrities in varying moods and setups to present one of the most sought-after calendars.



For Kartik Aaryan, it seems the theme was to go for grunge or classic rock and roll, and man oh man did Kartik nail the brief!

 Instagram/kartikaaryan

With his long dishevelled hair and that vintage fur jacket, Kartik looked like a rockstar from the mid-1960s. Heck, it wouldnt be farfetched to say that he sort of looked like Jim Morrison, the legendary vocalist for the band The Doors.



The outfit, the accessories, Kartiks hair and makeup - all looked to be inspired by the goth/grunge theme.

Had Morrison been alive in the 1990s, this is how he would have styled himself for sure.

The coolest thing about Kartiks look in the photoshoot, however, has to be the fact that he got his nails painted for this. We have always maintained that it is high time that we normalise makeup for men, and Kartik has been one of the pioneers from Bollywood for that cause.



 Instagram/kartikaaryan

Also, do take a note of that hint of a tattoo that we get to see.



We particularly like the fact that he actually went for the colour black to add to the monochromatic theme of the photoshoot. Its kinda unfortunate that the photos are in black and white, but hey, they do look dope.

For those interested in what Kartiks wearing, the white vest that we see on him is from a German street fashion label, called Thom Krom, and the pendants are from Boris Bidjan Saberi, a German menswear designer. The jacket is a vintage piece.

We have to say, that stylists Priyanka Shahani, & Kazim Delhiwala, also known as The Vainglorious, have done a phenomenally awesome job in styling Kartik for the shoot.

All in all, Kartik looks spectacular in the shoot. We honestly cant wait to see him pulling off even more of these statement ensembles when he starts promoting his films again.
The Pandemic situation in India was witnessed by the entire world. Many international media outlets raised their voices and many countries extended their support while raising concern on the alarming situation here. While the second wave seems to have settled down a little bit in some parts of India, medical experts have already raised a flag for the incoming third wave.



During the second wave, the government was questioned for its efforts and the help extended towards the citizens of the country. However, Australian MP Craig Kelly has an opinion of his own. He recently hailed the efforts of UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during the pandemic. The Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Any chance they could loan us their Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to release the Ivermectin sort out the mess our hopelessly incompetent State Premiers have created," he tweeted.

WELL DONE to Indian State of UP & its Chief Minister @myogiadityanath for their effective management in crushing the wave



Brilliant that UP introduced Ivermectin as preventive measure for health workers, patients & people exposed to infected people !! https://t.co/eYmCFBdgQx  Craig Kelly MP (@CraigKellyMP) July 12, 2021

Interestingly, this is not the first time that UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanaths efforts have been recognised by an international premier. Earlier, the WHO praised him and his state governments effort in containing the spread of the Covid-19 virus and their prompt response to testing, and tracing it in the state. According to reports, the UP government had distributed Ivermectin to health workers and people affected with Covid. A ration scheme and cash support scheme was also put in place for affected families.

 Twitter

A lot of people supported Kellys tweet and thanked him for the praises, but there were some who strongly disagreed and didnt hold back from sharing their opinion.



Invite him and few more like him, in fact entire party, and don't let them leave Australia..! Please do it asap..! We are done with them..  aalok dekhane (@daalok) July 12, 2021

He has definitely controlled UP as a state well. UP is different now then what it used to be. I dont know about corona. But a person working under the leadership of @narendramodi can go wrong, he is a human after all but will correct his course. Haters will hate. All the best.  Devanderpump (@DSurte) July 15, 2021

Respected Sir, Thanks for words of appreciation for our CM.



We know in spite of all support from friends, we know that we need to fight battle (against Corona) in ground and our respected CM is doing the same. Warm regards..  Arun Mishra (@arun2twitt) July 12, 2021

Hahaha, Please invite him, and all like him then you will know the fact.

And one thing please collect the data how many people died in up due to covid please.

Hop you will tweet sure on died data.

Thank you  Md Yusuf (@jahangir_yusuf) July 13, 2021

With a third wave warning being issued around the globe, it only makes sense that we become more responsible and stay alert. Please continue avoiding stepping out for leisure, maintain social distancing and above all, take extremely good care of your health.
The Supreme Court today issued a very powerful statement against the sedition law by calling it a colonial law and questioning the centre about its existence. The sedition Law is a colonial law. Do we still need the law in our country after 75 years of Independence," Chief Justice NV Ramana questioned the centre. However, attorney general K Venugopal has presented an argument that it needs to be retained with some amendments in place.



For the uninitiated, the sedition law falls under section 124 A of the IPC and came into existence back in 1860 while India was still under the British Raj. Back then, this act was used to suppress the voice of national struggle which included Mahatma Gandhi and Lokmanya Tilak.

The Supreme Courts powerful statement questioning why it still exists has drawn a parallel on social media and a lot of people are weighing in with their opinions.

If I may add to this your Lordship...

The question is also who misused the #sedition more; the British or our own elected Governments? https://t.co/nKOptO4lJn  The DeshBhakt (@TheDeshBhakt) July 15, 2021

Why only #sedition law?



All british era laws should be scrapped



All laws that were made before 1947, should be scrapped



Our police, judiciary, entire criminal justice system is colonial



Let's change it all https://t.co/QtJAWTDe1W  Kapil Mishra (@KapilMishra_IND) July 15, 2021

Sedition law was meant to suppress freedom movement, used by Britishers to silence Mahatma Gandhi, others.

Is this law still needed after 75 yrs of Independence. SC

Hoping finally this Colonial law misused by GOI will b thrown out.

That will b a Eid or Diwali day!#Sedition  Rezina Sultana (@RezinaSultana9) July 15, 2021

We don't need to follow any country. We have our own constitution and laws. Your thoughts are sentimental but we have to think about that Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression and sometimes the govt. misuses the #Sedition law.  Tushar Singh (@tusharrr20) July 15, 2021

While the law has existed for such a long time, it has come under criticism for curbing free speech, which is a fundamental right. In 1951, the Punjab High Court actually ruled it out as unconstitutional. After the government of India appealed to the Supreme Court, it was ruled out that speeches against the government of the country were in fact not illegal. A lot of 21st century authors have been charged under this law and the names include the likes of Arundhati Roy and Binayak Sen.

 Twitter

The Supreme Court ruled it out as colonial and the statement around why we havent got rid of it as a country has garnered a lot of support on the internet. This comes in the light of a plea hearing that has been going on, which was filed by former army officer Major-General S G Vombatkere. He had challenged the Constitutional validity of section 124 A (sedition) of the IPC on the grounds that it causes a chilling effect on speech of a human.



While the CJI maintained that the government was not blamed for its misuse, he exclaimed that If we go see history of charging of this section, the enormous power of this section can be compared to a carpenter being a saw to make an item, who uses it to cut the entire forest instead of a tree. That's the effect of this provision.

Simply put in laymans terms, according to Section 124 A of the Indian Penal Code, whoever, by words, either spoken or written, or by signs, or by visible representation, or otherwise, brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards, the Government established by law in [India] shall be punished with [imprisonment for life], to which fine may be added, or with imprisonment which may extend to three years, to which fine may be added, or with fine. This is also non-bailable.
Meridian, MS (39302)

Today

Showers and thunderstorms. High around 80F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%. Locally heavy rainfall possible..

Tonight

Variable clouds with scattered thunderstorms. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
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In summer 2020, The New York Times coordinated a nationwide project to document the lives of Americans out of work because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The study involved collaborating with 11 other local newsrooms around the U.S. The Messenger-Inquirer was the only newspaper from Kentucky in the collaboration. The resulting collection of stories was published Oct. 23, 2020, in the New York Times print edition and at nytimes.com/outofwork. The following list is the Messenger-Inquirer's local unemployment coverage from that time period; read more by clicking the "New York Times Project" header. Click on "Out Of Work In America" to go to the full
In a notice to customers on July 14, seen by Fastmarkets, the trader-miner warned that ongoing violence in South Africa could potentially prevent them from fulfilling contracts with customers.The notices have been sent to cobalt, chrome ore, ferro-chrome, manganese ore and vanadium customers.

While no customer reported to Fastmarkets that a specific delivery or contract had definitely been affected, some customers mistook the notice for...
The government has been in talks with representatives of steel producers, the countrys construction industry and other end users. They are discussing options to normalize supply of rebar and other steel products

[Steel producers] have accepted a reduction of 10% in import duties, economic advisor Paulo Guedes said in a live broadcast...
Miami, FL (33127)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 88F. Winds ESE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening. Scattered thunderstorms developing after midnight. Low 79F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
Michigan volunteers sewed 40,000 masks during pandemic

Michigan volunteers sewed 40,000 masks during pandemic

Service is a cornerstone in Ruth Kroll's life. When communities everywhere desperately needed protective face masks, Kroll volunteered her time to help.

The Michigan Community Service Commission partnered with Applied Textiles to provide mask sewing kits to residents. The kits included all the supplies needed to make the masks aside from the thread. The kits resulted in around 40,000 masks being made. Kroll herself made nearly 500 masks.

"Service is what I do," said Kroll.

Prior to receiving the mask kits from the Michigan Community Service Commission, Kroll took out her personal stash of sewing supplies to make masks with any supplies she could muster up. Last spring, Kroll began making do-it-yourself masks and ties, as fabric stores had low stock of fabric and many were sold out of elastic.

Even though she began making masks in the spring, Kroll started out with any fabric she could get her hands on.

"I started with the Christmas fabric," she said with a chuckle, as it was mid-spring.

Most of Kroll's masks were donated to the Brecon Village Retirement Community in Saline.

David Dodds helped with the Michigan Mask Sewing Project, making 100 child-sized masks that were donated to Wyandotte and Southgate Head Start programs.

"It felt like my duty to try and contribute somehow," said Dodds.

The Michigan Community Service Commission awarded $45,000 in grants for Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service and Global Youth Service Day engaging 8,000 volunteers. Many organizations chose to participate in the mask making project.

Worship Without Words (WWW), a community-based liturgical praise dance group, played a huge role in making and decorating masks. The majority of their masks were donated to elderly communities.

"We wanted our kids to be able to contribute a bit more than just dance to the community, but at the same time, we had to find something they could be creative with and still have fun," said Taliah Taylor of WWW. "Everyone needs masks, so it was the perfect task."

A small group of young girls from the organization were taught how to sew the masks, then they added rhinestones, doodles, and fun googly eyes to them.

Theresa Randleman recalls the senior citizens laughing at the silly faces the girls designed the masks with. The whole process for WWW was equally rewarding and fun.

"The kids enjoy adding their own flare and personality to the masks, and still were able to give back to our community," she said. "To give most of the masks to elders was the ultimate reward."
Benson, lawmakers visit Department of State offices in Saginaw, Flint

Benson, lawmakers visit Department of State offices in Saginaw, Flint

JULY 14, 2021

Residents can now schedule visits during expanded hours

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and three state representatives visited Department of State offices in Saginaw and Flint and spoke with staff and residents about the department's new efficient and convenient services. Benson was joined by Rep. Amos O'Neal (D-Saginaw) in Saginaw and Reps. John Cherry (D-Flint) and Cynthia Neeley (D-Flint) in Flint.

As the visits occurred, the department also opened up thousands of additional opportunities for in-person service, as residents can now schedule visits during expanded office hours that start next week.

"The department is offering more efficient, convenient service than ever before in history, and I'm committed to making government work better for all Michiganders," Benson said. "We will continue working with partners in the legislature to expand the services available without visiting an office at all, and the Michiganders who were at our offices today said they had easily scheduled their visits or arrived unannounced for quick, same-day service."

"I am glad Secretary Benson took time to visit branch offices in Genesee County," said state Rep. John Cherry (D-Flint). "While I know the work to improve the customer experience and add capacity after decades of disinvestment is difficult, I am happy that through compromise and negotiation the Michigan House of Representatives was able to help collaborate on the implementation of a convenient process for customers to conduct their business, whether that is an online transaction, a scheduled visit or walk-up service. We now need to ensure that the department receives adequate funding to fully address the backlog of services that built up during the pandemic."

"Working together to address the backlog that was created once the grace period for expiration dates ended remains a top priority," said state Rep. Cynthia Neeley (D-Flint). "As Secretary Benson continues her work to modernize the department and make it easier and more convenient to conduct business in the branches, these visits will provide an excellent chance to see first-hand what is working and hear what needs to improve with input from the people who work there and experience it every day."

"I applaud the efforts being made to ensure speedy, reliable service for customers despite decades of disinvestment by legislative leaders, but without fully funding the department, the work to improve the customer experience cannot be fully realized," said state Rep. Amos O'Neal (D-Saginaw). "If we're going to ensure employees can truly keep up with the demand for appointments, the Legislature must provide the funding needed to truly optimize and expand the model we collaborated on creating. I enjoyed visiting the Saginaw branch and learning what we need to do to support them best."

From July 19 through Sept 30, all Department of State offices will stay open until 6 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays, and open at 8 a.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Residents who want to schedule visits at these times are now able to do so starting at 2 p.m. every Wednesday, when the extra hours for the entire following week will become available.

Visits can be scheduled online at Michigan.gov/SOS, by phone at 888-MICH-SOS or in-person with the assistance of branch staff.

# # #

For media questions, contact

Tracy Wimmer at 517-281-1876.

We welcome questions and comments at the Contact the Secretary of State page.

Customers may call the Department of State Information Center to

speak to a customer-service representative at 888-SOS-MICH (767-6424).
Governor Whitmer Signs Marijuana Legislation Putting Michiganders' Health and Safety First

Governor Whitmer Signs Marijuana Legislation Putting Michiganders' Health and Safety First

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 13, 2021

Contact: Press@Michigan.gov

Governor Whitmer Signs Marijuana Legislation Putting Michiganders' Health and Safety First

LANSING, Mich. - Today, Governor Whitmer signed legislation that protects the public health and safety of Michigan residents by regulating the intoxicating substance delta-8 THC derivative that is currently being sold - untested and unregulated - in convenience stores, gas stores, and tobacco/smoke shops throughout the state.

Starting on October 11, 2021, these products - which were available for sale to individuals of all ages by businesses that cannot currently sell licensed adult-use or medical marijuana products - will be covered by state law and regulated by the state's Marijuana Regulatory Agency (MRA).

This package of bills also updates definitions regarding products derived from the cannabis plant so that all intoxicating substances will be safety-tested through the MRA's statewide monitoring system and will tracked through the state's seed-to-sale tracking system.

"This package of bills continues to show Michigan is the model for the nation in regard to protecting its residents and making sure that those who consume marijuana products do so in a safe manner," said Gov. Whitmer. "I am glad to see Michigan continuing to lead on the implementation and regulation of a safe, secure marijuana industry, which has already brought tens of millions of dollars in new tax revenue to the state, as well as thousands of well-paying jobs."

"The team at the MRA has always been committed to transparency and forward thinking and this was once again the case regarding delta-8," said MRA Executive Director Andrew Brisbo. "We were proud to work with legislators and industry stakeholders to pro-actively address this issue and move an untested, unlicensed intoxicating synthetic product into our licensed and regulated system."

"The voters of Michigan chose to legalize and regulate marijuana in the interests of justice and public health," said Rep. Yousef Rabhi, D-Ann Arbor. "We know that banning these substances is not the best way to keep the public safe. But we also know that these psychoactive compounds are currently being sold with no public health standards to anyone, regardless of age. Instead of allowing these new hemp derivatives like Delta 8 to circumvent our world-class regulated system, this new law will apply the same rigorous testing and commercial standards that currently protect consumer safety in the legal marijuana marketplace."

"I appreciate the support of Governor Whitmer and my legislative partner Representative Rabhi in helping Michigan take an important step in streamlining regulations for the safety of cannabis businesses and people around our state," said Rep. Jim Lilly, R-Park Twp. "By mirroring Michigan's existing liquor dram shop law and clearly defining the requirements for a proper injury lawsuit, we are bringing clarity to a previously murky area of our cannabis laws. I am extremely excited to see the Governor not only sign these bills, but also sign bills to protect Michigander's from unregulated and untested Delta-8 hemp products. This legislation does the right thing by taking these products out of the unregulated marketplace and bringing them under the purview of a well-functioning Marijuana Regulatory Agency."

"We applaud Governor Whitmer's decision to sign this package of bills into law," said Robin Schneider, Executive Director of the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association. "Regulating Delta 8 rather than banning the product is a smart and progressive move that is in the best interest of public health and safety. We are grateful that medical marijuana patients will have improved access to their certifying physicians and that state licensed cannabis businesses will have clearer standards and improved liability insurance coverage."

"The U.S. Hemp Roundtable, the hemp industry's national advocacy organization, applauds Governor Whitmer and legislative leaders for developing a sound, common-sense approach to regulating delta-8 THC products that will not only serve Michigan residents well, but will also provide a model for the nation," said Jonathan Miller, General Counsel of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable. "House Bill 4517 ensures that intoxicating products are not sold at retail stores, under the guise of hemp; rather that they are regulated akin to adult-use cannabis, restricted to adults and monitored for safety and potency. This is a win-win for Michigan farmers and consumers; we hope other states follow Michigan's lead."

House Bill 4745 will allow telemedicine for Michigan residents participating in the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program, a state registry program that administers the MMMA as approved by Michigan voters on November 4, 2008.

"I'm thrilled that medical marijuana patients now have access to telemedicine, just like the rest of Michigan's medical patients do," said Gov. Whitmer. "This package of bills makes a huge difference in the lives of those who rely on the medical properties of marijuana."

HB 4745 was sponsored by Rep. Jim Lilly, R-Park Twp., and a copy can be found here.

House Bill 4517 amends the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act to:

Define "THC" and modify the definitions of "industrial hemp" and "marihuana"

Require the MRA to promulgate a limit on the total amount of THC that a product intended for human or animal consumption could contain

Allow the MRA to promulgate rules to exclude from the definition of THC a tetrahydrocannabinol if the MRA determined, based on specified factors, that it did not have a potential for abuse

HB 4517 was sponsored by Rep. Yousef Rabhi, D-Ann Arbor, and a copy can be found here.

House Bill 4740 amends the Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act to modify the definitions of "industrial hemp", "marihuana", and "marihuana-infused product."

HB 4740 was sponsored by Rep. Pat Outman, R-Six Lakes, and a copy can be found here.

House Bill 4741 amends the Industrial Hemp Growers Act to modify the definitions of "industrial hemp" and "marihuana", and defined "THC."

HB 4741 was sponsored by Rep. TC Clements, R-Temperance, and a copy can be found here.

House Bill 4742 amends the Marihuana Tracking Act to modify the definition of "marihuana."

HB 4742 was sponsored by Rep. Tenisha Yancey, D-Grosse Pointe, and a copy can be found here.

House Bill 4743 amends the Public Health Code to modify the definitions of "marihuana" and "industrial hemp."

HB 4743 was sponsored by Rep. Julie Calley, R-Portland, and a copy can be found here.

House Bill 4744 amends the Industrial Hemp Research and Development Act to modify the definitions of "industrial hemp" and "THC."

HB 4744 was sponsored by Rep. Richard Steenland, D-Roseville, and a copy can be found here.

House Bill 4746 amends the Michigan Liquor Control Code to modify the definition of "marihuana."

HB 4746 was sponsored by Rep. Roger Hauck, R-Mt. Pleasant, and a copy can be found here.

The MRA has created a one-page document with information about delta-8 and has made it available on their website here.

###
EXECUTIVE ORDER

No. 2021-8

Declaration of State of Emergency

On June 26, 2021, I issued Executive Order 2021-7 declaring a state of emergency in Wayne county due to heavy rainfall resulting in widespread flooding, power outages, flooded roadways, stranded motorists, flooding of homes, and displaced residents. This event has also caused widespread flooding in Washtenaw county and tornadoes in Huron and Ionia counties resulting in injuries, displaced residents, power outages, and damage to homes, farms, roadways, and other private and public infrastructure.

In response, the counties of Washtenaw, Huron and Ionia declared local states of emergency and activated disaster response and recovery operations. Despite these measures, local resources are insufficient to cope with the situation. State assistance and other outside resources are necessary to effectively respond to, and recover from, the impacts of this emergency. The assistance of voluntary organizations and the state are required to protect public health, safety, and property, and to lessen or avert more severe and lasting harm to the community.

Section 1 of article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963 vests the executive power of the State of Michigan in the governor. Under the Emergency Management Act, 1976 PA 390, as amended, MCL 30.403(4), "[t]he governor shall, by executive order or proclamation, declare a state of emergency if he or she finds that an emergency has occurred or that the threat of an emergency exists."
MANISTEE  Healthcare employers from around northern Michigan can learn about apprenticeship programs at an information session next month online or in person in Manistee.

The information session will run from 1-3 p.m. on Aug. 3 with multiple sites participating around the state. The event is being hosted by Northwest Michigan Works!, in collaboration with GST Michigan Works!, Capital Area Michigan Works! and Michigan Works! West Central.
A bipartisan plan led by state Rep. Jack OMalley to keep kids safe in and around school buses has been signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

House Bills 4201-04 stiffen penalties for people who board buses without permission and allow the courts to prosecute drivers who put children in danger. OMalley has been a strong and consistent advocate for shoring up safety measures, having originally introduced the plans in his first term representing Michigans 101st House District, according to a news release from his office.

The proposals received overwhelming support in the House and advanced to the governors desk in unanimous fashion through Senate votes.

For families across our state, the safety of their children is paramount, said OMalley, R-Lake Ann. We have heard many stories of tragedies that occurred on buses or while children are in the process of getting on or getting off a bus. These reforms strengthen enforcement. They make it clear that if you run through a stop sign a bus is displaying, you will be seen. They make it clear that you must respect the bus and the individual operating it. These measures will keep kids safer and give parents more peace of mind when they are entrusting their children to an entity besides themselves.

The new laws will:

 Allow stop-arm cameras to be installed on buses. Video or photography would be allowed as evidence for law enforcement prosecuting vehicles that illegally pass a school bus. Corresponding legislation will spell out other specifications for any camera usage.

 Set a penalty for boarding a school bus without permission of the driver as a civil infraction, which is punishable by a fine up to $500. A civil infraction penalty for impeding the progress or operation of a school bus will also be established.

 Allow a sticker to be affixed to the side of a bus stating that unauthorized individuals attempting to board are subject to a civil infraction and fine.

Every child in Michigan deserves access to a safe, secure ride to and from school, said Whitmer on Tuesday in a news release from her office. These bills make our school buses safer, allowing every child to safely attend school, where they can learn and grow. I am proud to sign these bills that puts Michigans children first.

HB 4202 and HB 4204 will allow school buses to be equipped with a stop-arm camera system and provide for the use of visual material from such camera as evidence in a proceeding for failing to stop or overtaking a stopped school bus when red flashing lights are activated.

MAPT would like to thank Gov. Whitmer for signing these bills, which will ensure the safety of children walking to and from a school bus and educate the motoring public about what to do when approaching a school bus as well, said Katrina Morris, West Shore Elementary School District Transportation Director and Michigan Association for Pupil Transportation Immediate Past President. We are also grateful to Rep. Jack OMalley and a bipartisan coalition of legislators who have worked tirelessly on this legislation for the past few years that not only protects schoolchildren, but school district transportation professionals and the motoring public as well.
BALTIMORE (AP)  A Maryland man who belonged to an anti-government extremist movement was sentenced Thursday to six months of home confinement for illegally possessing a firearm.

Frank William Perry, 39, acknowledged following the boogaloo, a concept embraced by a loose network of gun enthusiasts and militia-style extremists. The term was derived from an 80s movie sequel called Breakin' 2: Electric Boogaloo, and is slang for a second civil war or collapse of the U.S. government.

Perry pleaded guilty in March to a gun charge that carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. Prosecutors weren't seeking a sentence stiffer than the one month he already spent in jail after his arrest. U.S. District Judge Catherine Blake also sentenced him to three years of supervised release.

I hurt my children and my family with my actions. I was raised better than that, Perry said, apologizing to the judge, his fiancee and his young children in the Baltimore courtroom. Perry said he had been worried for his family's safety and took the wrong route to protect them.

Blake said it was a serious offense, but agreed not to incarcerate him, noting that as a truck driver he needed to support his family. He'll need a probation officer's permission to leave the state. It's better to keep him employed and maintain his family responsibilities, she said.

One of Perry's lawyers, Brendan Hurson, said he had left his extremist ideology in the rear view mirror.

FBI agents seized a rifle, ammunition, a black tactical vest containing two ballistic plates and other gun accessories when they searched his Dundalk home in October 2020. Perry had a 2002 burglary conviction that made it illegal for him to possess a firearm.

In April 2020, Perry had his girlfriend buy the lower receiver of a rifle at a Baltimore County gun shop. Perry purchased other gun components from Amazon last year to build a complete weapon, having the parts shipped to his home in his girlfriend's name.

Perry told FBI agents that his fiancee decided to buy the gun for her self-defense because he often traveled for work. She told the agents she wasn't involved in assembling the rifle but that a neighbor had helped Perry build it. She also said she had seen Perry wearing body armor with the rifle slung around his neck while he washed dishes.

Perry insisted that it was his girlfriends weapon, but conceded that the FBI would probably find his fingerprints on it, said a court filing that accompanied Perrys guilty plea. Perry also admitted that he would have used the weapon himself for self-defense if put in a position that it was necessary.

The boogaloo movement has grown beyond its origins as an internet meme on fringe websites. Gun-toting "boogaloo bois," some wearing body armor over Hawaiian shirts, have often attended protests against COVID-9 lockdown orders. The shirts are a nod to big luau, a derivation of the movement's name.

Federal authorities have warned of bloodshed inspired by the boogaloo ideology and linked the movement to a string of killings and violent plots.

An Air Force sergeant tied to the boogaloo movement is accused of fatally shooting a federal security officer outside a federal building in Oakland, California, and killing a Santa Cruz County sheriffs deputy during a span of eight days last year.

Boogaloo supporters were galvanized by the death of Duncan Lemp, a Maryland man who was fatally shot by a police officer during a predawn, no-knock raid on his familys home.

Three Nevada men with ties to the boogaloo movement were arrested last year on charges they planned to spark violence during protests in Las Vegas.

An Arkansas man whose Facebook page included boogaloo references was arrested in April 2020 by police in Texarkana, Texas, on a charge he threatened to ambush and kill a police officer on a Facebook Live video.

In March 2020, a Missouri man suspected of planning to bomb a hospital in the Kansas City area in what he called operation boogaloo was shot and killed when FBI agents tried to arrest him.

This week, a self-proclaimed boogaloo member in Minnesota who allegedly planned to defend a January rally at that state's Capitol pleaded guilty to illegally possessing a machine gun.

In another case, a Minnesota man and a North Carolina man pleaded guilty to conspiracy to provide support to a foreign terrorist organization. Prosecutors said the two delivered firearm components to an undercover FBI agent  who they believed was with the group Hamas  to make money for the boogaloo movement. Authorities say the two took advantage of unrest in Minneapolis after the killing of George Floyd and spoke about destroying government buildings and killing politicians.
BEIJING (AP)  A prominent Chinese pig farmer who was detained after praising lawyers during a crackdown on legal activists by President Xi Jinpings government went on trial Thursday on charges including fighting with police and organizing a protest, defense lawyers said.

Sun Dawu, chairman of Dawu Agriculture Group, is among 20 defendants on trial in Gaobeidian, southwest of Beijing in Hebei province. They were detained after Dawu employees in August 2020 tried to stop a state-owned enterprise from demolishing a company building.

Sun said he is innocent, according to a written statement by defense lawyers. It said there were great disputes between them and prosecutors over evidence and the law but gave no details. It said the trial was due to resume Friday.

Phone calls to the court on Thursday weren't answered.

Sun became nationally known in 2003 when he was charged with illegal fundraising after soliciting investment for his business from friends and neighbors. The case prompted an outpouring of public support for Sun.

Since then, Sun has praised lawyers who help the public at a time when prominent legal figures have been imprisoned by Xis government. Suns lawyer in the 2003 case, Xu Zhiyong, disappeared in February 2020. Fellow activists say he was charged with treason.

In the latest case, Sun and other defendants are charged with fighting with police, organizing a protest, sabotaging production, obstructing public services, illegal mining, illegally occupying farmland and illegally taking public deposits, according to a copy of the charges given out by defense lawyers.

Sun was accused by police of provoking quarrels, a charge used against labor and other activists, when he was detained in August 2020.

Sun and the other defendants are in generally poor health after months in detention, according to the statement. It said two left court Thursday for medical treatment.

The trial officially is open to the public but only one spectator from the family of each defendant and 10 from the company were allowed due to anti-coronavirus restrictions, according to the statement.
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  Authorities in Haiti on Thursday forcefully pushed back against reports that current government officials were involved in the killing of Haitian President Jovenel Moise, calling them a lie.

Leon Charles, head of Haitis National Police, denied a report from Caracol news, a Colombian-based private TV station, that claimed interim Prime Minister Claude Joseph was the mastermind of the July 7 killing.

The police warns of all propaganda creating a diversion, he said, adding that the government has no evidence to support those claims.

Haitian authorities have otherwise not been very forthcoming with information about who might have been behind the killing, suggesting that media reports implicating current officials had struck a nerve in the government.

In Colombia, Gen. Jorge Luis Vargas, the head of that country's national police force, told reporters that he had no information suggesting Joseph had any role in the plot.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden said Thursday that he will send U.S. Marines to bolster security at its embassy in Haiti but that deploying American troops to stabilize the country is not on the agenda.

Haitis interim government last week asked the U.S. and the United Nations to deploy troops to protect key infrastructure following the assassination. Biden had signaled he was not open to the request, which comes as he is drawing down U.S. forces in Afghanistan this summer.

Mathias Pierre, Haiti's elections minister, told The Associated Press that he believes the request for U.S. troops is relevant given what he called a fragile situation and the need to create a secure environment for elections scheduled to happen in 120 days.

He also said the words not on the agenda leave the option open.

This is not a closed door. The evolution of the situation will determine the outcome, Pierre said. In the meantime, the government is doing everything we can to stabilize the country, return to a normal environment and organize elections while trying to come to a political agreement with most political parties.

Charles, the police chief, said the head of Moises security detail, Dimitri Herard, had been removed from his post and placed in isolated detention after officials interrogated him. Police had announced his detention in recent days. Charles said authorities will meet with him a third time before deciding the next steps.

Herard has not officially been named as a suspect in the investigation, but many Haitians have questioned how attackers could have invaded the president's house and killed him with no injuries among those assigned to protect him.

The press conference was held a day after the Colombian TV station aired a report it said was based on information from FBI sources and Haitian authorities as well as telephone calls, pictures and testimony from those accused of participating in the plot.

Im issuing a formal denial to these allegations, Charles said, calling them a lie.

Joseph, the interim prime minister, was about to be replaced when the assassination occurred. Moise had named him to the post in April following the resignation of Joseph Jouthe, who held the post for just over a year.

Two days before the assassination, Moise announced that he had chosen a new prime minister, neurosurgeon Ariel Henry. But the new prime minister had not yet been sworn into office as of July 7, and Joseph has insisted he is in charge of the government, a claim that has been recognized by the U.S. and others.

Charles said police have arrested 23 people in the killing, including 18 former Colombian soldiers, three Haitians and two Haitian-Americans. Police also have issued seven arrest warrants, searched 10 buildings, conducted 27 interrogations and placed four high-ranking police officers in isolation, he said.

He added that the investigation has benefited from the help of the FBI and foreign countries that he did not name.

On Thursday, a group of FBI agents gathered at Moise's private home and met with other officials as they entered and exited the compound under the gaze of curious onlookers while Haitian police officers walked to their vehicles with bags containing unknown items.

Eight FBI agents are on the ground in Haiti helping with the probe, said to a senior Biden administration official, who agreed to give the information only if not quoted by name because he was not authorized to comment publicly. In addition, officials from the Justice Departments criminal and national security divisions, the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. attorneys office for the southern district of Florida are working with Haitian national police.

The U.S. law enforcement officials are focused on tracing the origin of weapons used in the attack, investigating any possible U.S. link to the killing and looking into potential charges that could be filed against anyone involved in the United States.

He added that a U.S. delegation that arrived in Haiti on Sunday visited the airport and seaport in Port-au-Prince and discussed additional training and equipment that could be provided to secure that critical infrastructure.

The official noted international fatigue for Haiti, adding that U.S. officials said they made clear to the competing Haitian factions that building a coalition government would go far to reenergize support in the international community.

Meanwhile, the Pentagon issued a statement saying that a small number of the Colombian suspects had received U.S. military training and education programs while serving in the Colombian military. It said it had no additional details to offer pending a review that is still in progress.

The U.S. has provided substantial support to the Colombian military over the years and has trained many of its forces.

On Thursday, Colombian President Ivan Duque told private radio station La FM that only a small group of the former Colombian soldiers linked to the killing knew it was going to be a criminal operation. He said the others were duped and thought they would be traveling for a mission to provide protection.

Once they were over there, the information they were given changed, Duque said, adding that they ended up involved in these unfortunate events.

___

Madhani reported from Chicago. Associated Press writers Astrid Suarez in Bucaramanga, Colombia; and Zeke Miller and Robert Burns in Washington contributed to this report.
PORTLAND, Maine (AP)  Fishermen are harvesting fewer scallops off the East Coast as the population of the valuable shellfish appears to be on the decline.

Sea scallops are one of the most profitable resources in the Atlantic, and the U.S. fishery was worth more than $570 million at the docks in 2019. Fishermen harvested more than 60 million pounds that year.

But fishermen harvested about 43.5 million pounds in 2020 after a projection that they would collect more than 51 million pounds, according to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration data. They're expected to harvest about 40 million pounds this year, NOAA said.

NOAA officials cautioned that the scallop population is not in peril, and 40 million pounds is still a lot of scallops. That is a higher number than any year from 2013 to 2015.

The decline in scallops stems from slowing growth in key fishing areas such as Georges Bank and the mid-Atlantic, and some disappointing production in the Nantucket Lightship Area off Massachusetts, said Teri Frady, a NOAA spokesperson. She said the fishery is still well within overfishing limits.

So 40 million pounds is nothing to sneeze at, said Janice Plante, a spokesperson for the New England Fishery Management Council, a regulatory board. We dont have exceptionally strong year classes of scallops all the time or we wouldnt call them exceptional.

Scallops have been readily available to consumers in recent months, though prices have been higher than typical at some retail locations. Scallops often sell for about $20 per pound at retail in New England and some locations have been selling them for $22 or $25 or more.

That reflects demand for the seafood at the moment, said Andrew Minkiewicz, a Washington attorney who works with fishing advocacy group Fisheries Survival Fund.

The scallop fishery is based mostly in Massachusetts, though many scallops also come ashore elsewhere in New England as well as Virginia and New Jersey. The nation's catch of scallops has fluctuated in the past and the fishery has remained healthy, said Eric Hansen, owner of two scallop boats out of New Bedford, Massachusetts.

In my lifetime, it has happened many times, where we haven't seen them and then all of a sudden there's a big blossom of scallops, Hansen said. Nature has its own schedule.
MIDDLETOWN  The South District Fire Commission has promoted former deputy chief James Trzaski to the companys top job.

Trzaski began his firefighting career in 1985 as a volunteer with Beacon Hose Co. No. 1. In 1991, he started as a career firefighter with the Naugatuck Fire Department, from which he retired as captain in 2014, according to a press release. Trzaski, also a past officer and captain at Beacon Hose during his earlier tenure, served as chief from 2014, until he was hired as a firefighter by South Fire District in 2016, where he quickly rose through the ranks to deputy chief, it said.

He left the department in July 2020 and rejoined Naugatuck Fire Department, where he served as deputy chief until his return to South Fire District.

I am excited to be back and a part of this team, to build upon the great reputation of this fire department and to serve our citizens, Trzaski said in a prepared statement. I am grateful for this incredible opportunity.

My goal is to make South Fire District a premier fire service organization and to be the absolute best we can for the community, he said in the release.

Trzaski is among the most respected in Connecticuts fire service, according to the news release. In addition to his work as firefighter and officer, he is a longtime fire instructor at regional fire schools and Connecticut Fire Academy.

Trzaski was inducted into the Connecticut State Firefighters Association Hall of Fames class of 2020, a prestigious award to recognize present and former members of an organized fire department that have served both their fire department, county and/or state-wide fire service organizations above and beyond normal expectations, over an extended period of time, the statement said.

Chief Trzaski has extensive experience in the fire service, and I know he will be a tremendous asset to the South Fire District community, the city of Middletown and the fire department, South District Fire Commission Chairwoman Deborah Kleckowski said in a prepared statement. I know he will continue to lead with the respect, the knowledge, and the compassion our citizens deserve.

I recognize Chief Trzaskis stellar service to the fire service and am confident in his future success as the districts fire chief, Deputy Chief Russ Jacobs, who led the department as acting chief prior to Trzaskis appointment, said in the release.

Trzaski was preceded by Chief Michael Howley, who recently retired with over 40 years of service.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and other officials pressed the White House on Thursday to support efforts to preserve internet service to antigovernment protesters in Cuba, even advocating the use of giant balloons as floating Wi-Fi hotspots to allow images of dissent to stream unabated from the authoritarian nation.

Cuban authorities blocked social media sites in an apparent effort to stop the flow of information into, out of and within the country after thousands of Cubans began taking to the streets last weekend to protest limited access to COVID-19 vaccines and basic goods. The country is going through its worst economic crisis in decades.

We obviously have to stand with the people of Cuba against the communist dictatorship, DeSantis said at a press conference in Miami, adding that restoring access to the internet is vital to supporting the people of Cuba.

President Joe Biden responded later Thursday by denouncing communism and saying his administration is assessing whether it has the technology to maintain internet access for Cubans.

Internet access was restored in Cuba earlier this week, but, as of Thursday, cellphone data was still not fully restored.

The protests in the island nation have sparked an outpouring of support in Florida, which is home to the nations largest community of Cuban exiles. Throngs of people in Miami, Orlando and the Tampa area have rallied in support, sometimes shutting down major thoroughfares.

DeSantis said every option should be explored, including using offshore and satellite technology to supply internet service. One option being considered is using balloons to provide connectivity. The Republican governor also suggested using the U.S. Embassy in Havana as a kind of hotspot.

The one thing that communist regimes fear the most is the truth. And if were able to help Cubans communicate with one another  also communicate to the outside world  that truth is going to matter, DeSantis said. And so, Mr. President, nows the time to stand up and be counted.

It's unclear how the U.S. government or any other entity, public or private, might keep internet service uninterrupted.

"We need the political willingness from the Biden administration," said Republican U.S. Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar, whose parents were Cuban exiles. And if the federal government considers that they cannot pay for the resources, the Cuban American community will.

On Thursday evening, Biden denounced Cuba as a failed state that is repressing their citizens and called communism "a universally failed system during a news conference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Biden said that the U.S. is considering ways to help Cubans  as long as that aid is not undermined by the communist government.

Biden said the administration wont ease a ban on remittances to Cubans because they believe it is highly likely the regime would confiscate them, and that while the U.S. is prepared to send significant amounts of a COVID-19 vaccine to the country, theyd have to be administered by an international organization in such a way that average citizens could get them.

They've cut off access to the internet  we're considering whether we have the technological ability to reinstate that access," Biden said.

Meanwhile, demonstrations in Florida continued for another day. Hundreds were gathering in Hialeah near Miami to show solidarity with Cubans.

Earlier in the week, two Florida men were arrested during a protest in Tampa in support of the demonstrations and were held on charges related to the states new so-called anti-riot law.

Julian Rodriguez-Rodriguez, 30, Maikel Vazquez-Pico, 39, were among those arrested Tuesday night as a group of protesters attempted to take over an exit ramp at Interstate 275 and Dale Mabry Highway, which is a major thoroughfare in Tampa.

Both were arrested on charges that include battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting law enforcement and taking part in an unlawful assembly that blocked streets or sidewalks, records show.

Rodriguez-Rodriguez put an officer into a bear hug as the officer was trying to arrest another protester, according to an arrest report. He then punched an officer in the face, breaking his glasses as the officer tried to arrest him, the report said. He continued to resist arrest until he was placed in handcuffs.

The men were being held without bond in the Hillsborough County Jail early Thursday. It was not immediately clear whether either had an attorney who could comment.

Earlier this year, DeSantis signed into law a Florida bill that boosts penalties against demonstrators who turn violent and creates new criminal penalties for those who organize demonstrations that get out of hand. Provisions of the law also make it a felony to block some roadways and give immunity to people who drive through protesters blocking a road.

The bill was introduced after last summers protests for racial justice during which some Black Lives Matter protesters were met by police with tear gas and arrests when they took to the streets for days at a time.

During his Thursday press conference, DeSantis again sought to differentiate recent protests over Cuba from those last year.

Cuban Americans who are out demonstrating, he said, theyre not violent riots. Theyre out there being peaceful and theyre making their voices heard, and we support them.

But he said demonstrators should not be shutting down roads that could impede traffic and commerce.

___

Calvan reported from St. Petersburg, Florida. Frisaro reported from Fort Lauderdale. Associated Press writer Alexandra Jaffe in Washington contributed to this report.
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP)  Officials at the public water system for the city of Des Moines have lifted a call for customers to limit lawn watering by 25% as drought conditions have eased.

Des Moines Water Works lifted that call on Thursday after implementing it last month when the flow of its major water source, the Raccoon River, dropped to less than 300 cubic feet per second  a drastic drop from the river's median flow of 4,000 cubic feet per second.
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions that was enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, has been the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and have fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing that they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rent.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they would face eviction within the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in South Dakota:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

South Dakota does not have its own eviction moratorium, leaving only the CDC moratorium.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

South Dakota has received $360 million in federal funds to help tenants with outstanding rent, utility payments and other expenses. The money can go toward 15 months of rent and other expenses, including internet access. Renters who pay 30% of their income toward rent and earn 80% or less of their area's median income qualify.

So far, only a small fraction of the funds have been sent to renters. The South Dakota Housing Development Authority, which oversees the funds, estimates that it has distributed about $10.7 million to 1,475 tenants.

Brent Thompson, the executive director of East River Legal Services, said there is a lack of awareness about the federal assistance available for renters facing evictions.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION ACTIONS?

Thompson said during the CDC moratorium that courts have halted many eviction actions or landlords have decided not to file them.

Eviction filings have dipped during the pandemic. According to the state court system, evictions decreased by about 10% after the pandemic hit in March 2020. This year, evictions filings have been even lower, decreasing by about 22% from pre-pandemic levels.

HOW AFFORDABLE ARE THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

South Dakota's rental housing market has tightened, partly due to the strong economy and a shortage of affordable housing. From 2015 through 2020, rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Sioux Falls, the state's largest city, increased by 17%, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The state's vacancy rate was about 7% before the pandemic, which roughly matched the national average.

Data on rental housing during the pandemic hasn't been released yet. But lawmakers have sounded the alarm about a run on affordable housing during the pandemic and formed a special committee to try to find solutions to the problem. Republican Rep. Roger Chase, who also works as a realtor, said this month that the housing market is as tight as he's seen in over 30 years.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Its hard to say how much homelessness will increase in South Dakota. Thompson, of East River Legal Services, expects evictions and eviction-related lawsuits to spike after the CDC's moratorium ends. One indication of the scope of the problem is census data estimating that there are 21,500 adults in the state who are not confident they will be able to pay next month's rent.

Thompson feared the moratorium's end would create a crisis event in evictions, and his legal clinic is bracing for a surge in people facing evictions or owing multiple months of rent.

Housing was already a very serious problem and you are adding literally a natural disaster that is a worldwide pandemic, he said. Its just the perfect storm.
A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month.

The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Connecticut:

WHAT'S THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Connecticut is one of several states that enacted its own eviction moratorium in 2020. The state's rule, which prevents landlords from filing most new eviction cases, with certain exceptions, is set to expire on June 30. The Connecticut Fair Housing Center, a housing advocacy group, has called on Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont to extend the state's moratorium until July 21, saying more time is needed to better educate the public about the state's rental assistance initiative.

WHAT'S BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Using roughly $400 million in federal COVID-19 relief funds, the state developed the UniteCT Program from scratch to provide both rental and utility payment assistance to qualified households impacted by the pandemic. Renters that meet income guidelines must demonstrate, among other things, a risk of becoming homeless to be eligible for up to $15,000 in rental assistance that's paid to their landlord. As of June 23 about $17.3 million had been approved for 2,352 cases. Additionally, up to $1,500 for unpaid utility bills is available to qualified applicants.

Sarah White, staff attorney for the Connecticut Fair Housing Center, warned state lawmakers in recent letter the effects of the pandemic will be needlessly amplified by the long-lasting consequences of eviction if more time isn't given to distributing the rental relief. The group also says it should be mandatory for landlords to participate, arguing that some are starting to evict people for nonpayment, even under the state's moratorium, without first applying to the UniteCT program for funding.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Eviction hearings are still being held remotely because of pandemic restrictions, but are expected to resume in-person as state court operations continue to open back up. Meanwhile, the state is using federal COVID-19 relief funds to provide low-income tenants with no-cost legal representation for eviction proceedings or administrative proceedings.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATE'S RENTAL MARKETS?

The rent burden in Connecticut, the percentage of households that spend 30% or more of their income on rent, is near or exceeds 50% in most counties, according to AffordCT, a housing database. Fairfield County has the largest percentage of households meeting the rent burden standard, at more than 52%. It's more than 47% in Hartford County, where the overall median rent in the Hartford, West Hartford and East Hartford metro area is $1,500 a month, with an average two-bedroom costing $1,703 a month, according to data from Realtor.com.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Erin Kemple, executive director of the Connecticut Fair Housing Center, said she absolutely expects a surge in homelessness, noting there isn't much that a court can do to keep in tenant who is in arrears in their housing under Connecticut law. According to U.S. Census data from the end of May, 69,000 tenants in Connecticut said they were behind in rent. Kemple said that's about 3.5 times the number of eviction filings the state typically sees in an entire year. She said there's been a real spike already in eviction cases being filed because Connecticut's moratorium has an exception for tenants with more than six months of unpaid rent.

Aaron Turner, a spokesman for the Connecticut Department of Housing, said the state is making every effort, through a wide variety of programs and initiatives to prevent a surge in homelessness. He said: There are always evictions, for a variety of reasons, but we are taking steps necessary to prevent those evictions that are due solely to nonpayment of rent due to the financial impacts associated with the pandemic.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  Detectives have arrested a man in the death of his 18-month-old son this week in a motel in South Los Angeles, according to authorities and the boy's mother.

Shane Zachary Flowers, 23, was booked Wednesday on suspicion of child abuse resulting in death, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. He is being held on $100,000 bail and it was not immediately clear if he had an attorney who could speak on his behalf.
Ned Gerard / Hearst Connecticut Media

HARTFORD  A former U.S. Postal Service employee who stole packages, greeting cards and other mail from customers was sentenced to three months incarceration Wednesday, federal prosecutors said.

Michael McGuirk, 37, of Windham, was sentenced by Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford federal court to three months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after he pleaded guilty on March 30 to theft of mail by a postal employee.
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  Haitis police chief on Wednesday accused a Venezuelan businessman who owns a security company in Florida of traveling to Haiti numerous times as part of a plot to assassinate President Jovenel Moise, who was killed last week.

Leon Charles, head of the Haitis National Police, said Antonio Intriago of CTU Security signed a contract while in Haiti but provided no other details and offered no evidence.

The investigation is very advanced, Charles said.

Intriago could not be immediately reached for comment.

Colombias national police chief has said that CTU Security used its company credit card to buy 19 plane tickets from Bogota to Santo Domingo for the Colombian suspects allegedly involved in the killing.

During a news conference Wednesday evening, Charles pleaded with Haitians to help officials track down suspects who remain on the run, including a former senator he described as a key suspect and is accused of providing weapons used in the July 7 attack.

Former Sen. John Joel Joseph, a Haitian politician and opponent of the Tet Kale party that Moise belonged to, is one of five fugitives whom police say are armed and dangerous.

We are looking for these assassins, and wherever they go we need to capture them, arrest them and bring them to justice, Charles said.

In a video posted last year on YouTube, the former senator compared Moise to the coronavirus, saying Haitians have died from hunger or been killed amid a spike in violence under his administration.

Insecurity has infected every single Haitian, Joseph said.

The police chief also announced the arrest of Gilbert Dragon, who led a rebel group known as the National Revolutionary Front for the Liberation and Reconstruction of Haiti. The group seized power in parts of Haiti after the 2004 coup that led to the ouster of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide.

Authorities said they found several weapons at his house, including a saber, two grenades and an AR-15.

In addition, officers arrested a Haitian man identified as Reynaldo Corvington, who is accused of providing the suspects with housing and giving them sirens to use on top of their cars with help from another suspect, James Solages, a Haitian American who was detained in recent days.

Corvington owns a private security company called Corvington Courier & Security Service, which he established in 1982, according to its website, which provides tips on how to survive a kidnapping.

Police said they found several weapons at his house, including nine pistols and an AR-15.

Another of the fugitives identified by police is Joseph Felix Badio. Charles said Badio rented a house near Moises home to help the suspects understand the layout of the area.

Badio previously worked for Haitis Ministry of Justice and joined the governments anti-corruption unit in March 2013. The agency issued a statement saying he was fired in May following serious breaches of unspecified ethical rules, adding that it filed a complaint against him.

This villainous act is an affront to our democracy, the unit said in a statement.

Charles, the police chief, said four high-ranking officials who were in charge of the presidents security detail are being held in isolation as authorities continue to track down other fugitives, including Rodolphe Jaar. He was born in Haiti, speaks English and has a college degree in business administration, according to court records. He is not a U.S. citizen.

Jaar, who once used the alias Whiskey, was indicted in 2013 in federal court in South Florida on charges of conspiring to smuggle cocaine from Colombia and Venezuela through Haiti to the U.S. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to nearly four years in prison, according to court records.

At his 2015 sentencing hearing, Jaars attorney told the court that Jaar had been a confidential source for the U.S. government for several years before his indictment. He also agreed to cooperate with federal authorities and asked for a lighter sentence, saying he had a wife, 1-year-old and elderly parents.

In June 2000, Jaar filed a civil suit against the U.S. government seeking the return of a large amount of cash taken from him along with his passport and tourist visa when he was stopped in a rental car by customs agents. He was not arrested at the time, but Jaar said he learned he was under investigation for money laundering.

The government later returned his property and did not file charges. Jaar, who dropped the lawsuit, described himself in court papers as the owner of a successful import business in Haiti. He said his family has operated the enterprise since 1944.

Authorities in Haiti are investigating Moises killing with help from Colombias government, which has said at least 18 former Colombian soldiers suspected in the slaying have been arrested and remain detained in Haiti. Charles said three Haitians also have been arrested and at least three suspects killed, adding that they continue to investigate those detained to identify the masterminds behind the slaying.

The detained Haitians have been identified as Solages, Joseph Vincent and Christian Emmanuel Sanon.

Police had said Sanon flew to Haiti in June aboard a private jet with several of the alleged gunmen. The 62-year-old is a Haitian physician, church pastor and Florida businessman who once expressed a desire to lead Haiti in a YouTube video and has denounced the countrys leaders as corrupt.

Charles said that Sanon was working with those who plotted the assassination and that Moises killers were protecting him. He said officers who raided Sanons house in Haiti found a hat with a DEA logo, 20 boxes of bullets, gun parts, four license plates from the Dominican Republic, two cars and correspondence.

A business associate and a pastor in Florida who knew Sanon told The Associated Press that the suspect was religious and that they did not believe he would be involved in violence. The associate, who spoke on condition of anonymity for security reasons, said he believes Sanon was duped, describing him as completely gullible.

___

Associated Press writers Ben Fox in Washington and Terry Spencer in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida contributed to this report.
ROME (AP)  Italian lawmakers approved renewed funding to train the Libyan coast guard as a human rights group released a report Thursday outlining fresh accusations that the coast guard returns the migrants it rescues at sea to horrific detention camps in the North African nation.

The training program is under an umbrella of Italian military missions abroad, which members of the Italian Parliament's lower house, the Chamber of Deputies, discussed ahead of the funding vote.

In its scathing report on abuses in Libyan detention camps, Amnesty International called on European nations to suspend their cooperation with Libya on migration and border control.

Recently, the Libyan coast guard fired at a migrant boat in the Mediterranean and carried out maneuvers which could have risked overturning the vessel, a scene observed by the crew of a migrant rescue group's surveillance aircraft.

Amnesty International's report detailed the experiences of 53 refugees and migrants in Libyan detention centers. Most of them were detained following their interception at sea by Libya's coast guard, which for several years has received training, vessels and equipment from Italy.

Successive Italian governments have supported the Libyan coast guard in hopes of curbing people setting out for Europe from northern Africa and who made it to Italian shores by the tens of thousands for several years.

Many of the new arrivals are economic migrants found ineligible for asylum by Italian authorities. Most other European Union nations have been largely unresponsive to Italy's repeated appeals that they take in some of the asylum-seekers, many of whom want to reach jobs or families in northern Europe.

Amnesty International said that in the first six months of this year, more than 7,000 people intercepted at sea were forcibly returned to a Libyan camp.

Detainees held there told Amnesty International they faced torture and other ill-treatment, cruel and inhuman detention conditions, extortion and forced labor, the report said.

At another detention facility, in Tripoli, according to the group's report, Former detainees there said that guards raped women and some were coerced into sex in exchange for their release or for essentials such as clean water. 

For years now, rights groups and officials at U.N. agencies that work with migrants and refugees have cited survivor testimony about systematic abuse in the camps, including forced labor, beatings, rapes and torture. The abuse often accompanies efforts to extort money from families before migrants are allowed to leave Libya on traffickers' boats.

A majority of Italian lawmakers rejected a proposed resolution from 30 fellow deputies to immediately suspend assistance to the Libya coast guard. Far-left lawmaker Erasmo Palazzotto was one of resolution's sponsors.

In the Libyan-run detention centers, the migrants are "tortured, raped, killed or sold as slaves,'' Palazzotto said.

Lawmakers from a small centrist party, Italia Viva, declined to vote on the Libyan aid.

It's indispensable to exert the maximum pressure of Italy in preventing unacceptable, systematic violations of human rights and all that criminal conduct (aimed) at sinking boats of migrants by the Libyan coast guard,' Italia Viva member Giuseppina Occhionero was quoted as saying by the Italian news agency LaPresse.

Among those approving more aid for the Libyan coast guard was the far-right Brothers of Italy, a party fast-growing in popularity.

___

Follow APs global migration coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/migration
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP)  The mayor of a southwest Louisiana city recovering from back-to-back blows from Hurricanes Laura and Delta is in Washington hoping to persuade federal officials to steer more aid to the region where rebuilding is sputtering.

The Advocate reports that Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter arrived in the nations capital Tuesday and will remain until Friday to hold meetings, including with White House officials, in his continuing bid to obtain disaster assistance for a severe housing shortage and other needs from Laura.
MIDDLETOWN  A new collaboration, still in its infancy, seeks to compile a comprehensive list of minority-owned businesses in an effort to support entrepreneurs who face unique challenges presented by the pandemic.

The initiative is aimed at providing economic stimulus and growth for such small companies.

Kerry Kincy, who runs the Free Center at 52 N. Main St., said she has faced several challenges, especially as a woman.

As a single mom, I earned both my undergraduate and masters as a part-time student, full-time single mom, and working full-time to build my craft in movement therapy, she said.

Ten years ago, the connections to art and wellness werent so popular, so I also had the unique challenges of putting what I do into a vocabulary people could understand, appreciate and value to compensate me, Kincy added.

Several months ago, Common Councilwoman Jeanette Blackwell arrived at the idea after speaking with Acting Health Director Kevin Elak about his ongoing effort to educate hard-to-reach populations who are wary of getting the COVID-19 vaccine.

He indicated concerns that people of color were getting vaccinated at slower rates, but also people of color were contracting the virus at a higher rate. If we had the list, we could partner with businesses to try and mitigate concerns within the minority community, but he had none, Blackwell said.

We didnt have an active, vibrant list, she said.

Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Vice President Jeffrey Pugliese and Economic Development Specialist Thomas Marano, along with Director of Planning, Conservation and Development Joseph Samolis, have so far done an awesome job pulling together sources, Blackwell said.

The goal is to create as accurate and current list as possible, Pugliese said. It will be a bit of a challenge to collect that data, and will eventually be to a living, breathing document that will grow over time.

That will require a lot of boots on the ground, Pugliese said.

In February, Kincy signed a lease for the Free Center, and launched an arts and wellness center for the community  to bring [interested peopled] to me, Kincy said.

However, the pandemic thwarted those plans, but she used the time wisely.

I spent the time building out the space and preparing for my community to come safely. We needed wellness and healing even more. The inequities we were seeing throughout our world created an even bigger need, Kincy said.

She managed to weather the challenges of losing her income and the world shutting down by the strength of the community that supported me.

Kincy found the community was very willing to exchange ideas and methods of support, donations, and believing in me, and the idea that access to space, art and wellness programs should be free for all to participate.

The list Middletown hopes to amass will bring together several already-established resources.

One site, shopblackct.com, provides an extensive directory of businesses owned by Black merchants across Connecticut. It lists businesses by county as well as town, and includes Middletown.

Another resource will be information culled by the Hartford-based Connecticut Data Collaborative, which includes recent startups and historical data from the Secretary of the States office, Pugliese said.

Other important resources include the chambers Side Street to Main Street minority entrepreneur training alumni list, member database, and the MEWS+ home-based business and entrepreneur list, he said.

Throughout the pandemic, the chamber provided information for member businesses on how to find COVID relief, technical assistance and awareness of how to procure funding, and other resources.

Those supports continue as we pivot to a full recovery and economic relaunch, even if its not necessarily money, Pugliese said. That includes best practices, learning from each other. Connecting businesses is our bread and butter.

Stakeholders expected to help spread the word among their constituencies include Middlesex County NAACP President Faith Jackson, who is also director of the Middletown Equal Opportunity & Diversity Management; and the Rev. Robyn Anderson, co-founder of the Middletown Ministerial Health Fellowship.

We want others at the table, the councilwoman said.

Its just another way for us to connect businesses of different shapes and sizes and from different industry sectors, Pugliese said. Its going to be a long-term and ongoing project.

The challenge will be to identify these entrepreneurs, he added. It will be incumbent upon us to keep it active and engaged, Pugliese said.

I truly believe many people want to support Black-owned businesses. ... The directory would provide a great resource for the community thats doing what they can to make equity and diversity and inclusion for all fully realized, Kincy said.

The common council is slated to take up the issue at its August meeting.

For information, visit freecenter.us and Free Center Middletown on Facebook.

Editors note: This article has been updated to reflect that The Free Center is located at 52 N. Main St.
SALEM, N.H. (AP)  A 5-year-old who survived a vehicle crashing into her home as she was playing in the front room has left a hospital, but she can't return to the house that's deemed structurally unsound.

The driver, who lives less than a mile from the scene of the crash, faces aggravated drunken driving charges, police said.

Homeowner Joe Tutrone said he heard a bang on Saturday, and his son told him, The house blew up and Giuliana's dead.

Tutrone told WMUR-TV that he thought she was dead, too, when he saw the injuries to her face. I thought she was gone. Theres no way shes going to live through this. She had giant open wounds on her forehead and her cheek. It was unbelievable. It was from a horror movie," he said.

Giuliana was released from a hospital Tuesday evening. The family has been living temporarily in a hotel. The familys home is boarded up and police said it remains unsafe.

The driver, a doctor, didnt immediately respond to an email or a message left at his office. A court date for him has not been set.

The doctors employer, a medical practice in Massachusetts, issued a statement that said he had been placed on administrative leave.

Our first concern as physicians and health care professionals has been with Giuliana and her family, the statement said. "We are hopeful that Giuliana will have a full recovery."
EAST LYME  After six soldier candidates were hospitalized Monday, a spokesman for the Connecticut National Guard said its not uncommon for those in Phase 1 of the Officer Candidate School to experience physical issues.

The six candidates were taken to Lawrence + Memorial Hospital in New London around 8 a.m. Monday to be treated for symptoms of dehydration and overexertion. Fire and medic crews from several surrounding towns responded to the Stones Ranch Military Reservation around 7:40 a.m., according to East Lyme Police Chief Mike Finkelstein, who also serves as the towns emergency management director.

By Wednesday afternoon, the six individuals had been released, according to Maj. Dave Pytlik, the public affairs officer of the Connecticut National Guard.

The six people who fell ill were involved in a training exercise known as a ruck march during the first of three phases for the candidate school, Pytlik said. During the march, candidates are required to carry a 35-pound military backpack while marching for six miles. The march must be finished in less than an hour and 45 minutes. It is required for all officer candidate school programs.

Its pretty common, especially in Phase 1, for candidates to have physical issues, where its rolling an ankle ... or dehydration or overexertion, Pytlik said.

He said usually those who come physically unprepared are more likely to experience these types of issues.

The three-phase program runs yearly in Connecticut, with Phase 1  which last for two weeks  always taking place in the summer. Pytlik said in prior years, there have been instances of similar situations. He said while the amount of people taken to the hospital Monday is slightly higher than what the agency might usually see during this first phase, but said its not something theyre concerned about.

What we saw was not very atypical, he said.

Pytlik said theres typically a physical fitness test that candidates undergo prior to Phase 1 that often helps officials involved in the program know what each candidate is physically capable of doing, and who might not be physically prepared to make it through the three phases.

Pytlik said the test was no longer mandated or able to be held against anyone during the (COVID-19) pandemic this year. He said that while that decision was made by the Department of the Army, he expect it will return before Phase 1 next year.

The persons score gives the cadre an idea of are they super fit, borderline or maybe not the best option for the program, Pytlik said. We anticipate it will be used again.

During Mondays march, Pytlik said each candidate was required to carry at least two quarts of water or a camel bag that holds more than that. He said they also passed two water sources on the course.

We watch it pretty carefully, he said. Everyone has water-intake monitoring.

He said medical personnel were embedded within the group of candidates, allowing for a very short response time once the six individuals started to feel unwell.

It was unfortunate that people had to go to the hospital, but the medical staff acted as well as they could have, Pytlik said.

Whether the six individuals who were hospitalized will be able to continue with the program is uncertain. Pytlik said he believes some of them will be given the opportunity to continue, and that those who arent able to are allowed to apply again next year.

After the two weeks of Phase 1, candidates are in for the long-haul, with Phase 2  drill weekends  taking place once a month for about a year, Pytlik said. The final phase is also two weeks.
Venice, FL (34285)

Today

Mostly cloudy with a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. High 88F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Cloudy skies this evening will become partly cloudy after midnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 76F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.
Unmasked soldiers will have to prove they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 after new orders from the commanding general of Fort Rucker, Alabama.

The new measure was put in place by Maj. Gen. David Francis Tuesday, marking one of the most aggressive efforts by a military leader to combat the spread of the virus as the new delta variant drives the majority of infections and deaths. Most Southern states are hovering around 50% of adults having received a first dose of the vaccine as they see surging cases.

Alabama drags behind most of the nation in combating the coronavirus, with only about 33% of the state fully vaccinated. The majority of states have at least half of their population vaccinated.

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"The big difference is going to be that if you are not wearing a mask, the leadership will be able to ask you, ask soldiers, to prove that they've been vaccinated by showing their vaccination card," Francis said in a video posted on the base's Facebook page Monday.

Masked troops will not have to prove their vaccine status.

About 70% of U.S. troops have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine which remains voluntary. However, the Pentagon is considering mandatory inoculations once the Food and Drug Administration fully approves the shots.

The order only applies to servicemembers, some 5,000 of whom serve on the base that houses the headquarters for Army aviation. However, the thousands of civilians who work and live on the base are "requested and strongly encouraged to adhere" to the new rule. Refusal to comply with vaccination or mask requirements could result in being booted from the installation.

Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby told reporters Tuesday that the Defense Department is "watching the Delta variant closely" and that leaders are working towards a fully vaccinated force.

"We continue to be in the mode of encouraging troops to get vaccinated to the maximum degree...we believe that's the best way forward," Kirby said.

On Sunday, the U.S. military in South Korea reimposed an indoor mask mandate regardless of vaccination status and restricted travel to Seoul, putting bars off limits as the nation grapples with a surge of infections.

The new directive will last through July 23rd, according to a statement from U.S. Forces Korea. The new restrictions came as the South Korean government announced 1,316 new COVID-19 patients Friday, bringing the total number of infections in the country to 165,344.

On Thursday, five U.S. troops in South Korea tested positive for COVID-19.

-- Steve Beynon can be reached at Steve.Beynon@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @StevenBeynon.

Related: Pentagon Eyes Possible Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccine as FDA Weighs Approval
In the last decade, 123 U.S. soldiers and Marines have died in non-combat tactical vehicle accidents, most of them in the United States, because the services didn't do enough to enact their own safety measures, a new government investigation has found.

In a report written by the Government Accountability Office, or GAO, investigators described driver error, complacency and overconfidence as the most common causes for these accidents and noted that "inadequate supervision and inadequate training or experience" were also often cited as factors.

Both the Army and Marine Corps have come up with rules and training to prevent or mitigate deadly accidents, but investigators found that implementation has been "limited in scope." As a result, practices such as following speed limits, wearing seat belts or harnesses, and using ground guides differed from unit to unit.

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Other measures like assigning unit safety officers -- leaders tasked with promoting and enforcing safety rules -- were hamstrung.

"According to one senior Marine Corps safety official we spoke with, unit-level safety officers may have one hour a day to devote to safety matters," the report noted.

A 2019 Marine Corps survey cited in the report showed that 45% of Marines "said that they were not aware that their unit had a safety officer."

Between 2010 and 2019, the two branches had a total of 3,753 tactical vehicle accidents. The report focused mainly on 342 of those that were severe enough to cause more than $500,000 in damage or serious injuries. Most of these serious accidents took place in the U.S., during the day, and on roads or parking lots, the report said.

Investigators found that Army Strykers, Marine Light Armored Vehicles, and Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles used by both services were the most frequently involved in accidents.

Rollovers were by far the deadliest kind of accident, the report found. Despite being associated with a quarter of the accidents, they accounted for 63% of the deaths in the last decade.

First Lt. H. Conor McDowell, a 24-year-old platoon commander, was killed in a May 2019 training exercise at Camp Pendleton, California. The lieutenant was standing in one of his vehicle's turrets, guiding his driver, and looking for mock enemy fighters when the 12-ton vehicle drove into a grass-covered ditch. The vehicle rolled, pinning and killing McDowell as it flipped.

After the incident, Michael McDowell, Conor's father; his wife; and his son's fiancee lobbied members of Congress to dig into the troubling trend of military rollover deaths.

This report was mandated by Congress following the family's push for answers and accountability.

In an email, Michael McDowell called the GAO report "a starting point" but said its recommendations, including more robust training and empowering vehicle commanders, need to "be strengthened, improved, and added to."

Both the Army and the Marine Corps agreed with the report's recommendations.

"From initial design and acquisition, to recruiting and training, and information sharing with our DoD partners, we are making every effort to reduce our mishap rate," Marine Corps spokesman Capt. Andrew Wood said in a statement.

"The Army is in the process of implementing the recommendations and has already implemented two in our ongoing effort to prevent loss and sustain combat readiness," Army spokesman Jason Waggoner said in a statement.

However, McDowell also noted that, aside from training, many vehicles lack any technology to help prevent rollovers.

"The majority of Humvees in the States -- there are 95,000 of these in the US military -- most of them do not have anti-lock brakes or electronic stability controls or other rollover mitigation, which we've had in our cars for decades," he explained to Military.com. "Why were we cutting corners here?"

McDowell also said that the age of some of the vehicles plays a role in rollover deaths. He cited the July 2019 mishap in which eight Marines and one sailor were killed when their amphibious assault vehicle filled with water and sank off the coast of California as an example. The vehicle was 36 years old, built 18 years before the youngest Marine who died in the incident was born.

For McDowell, the report is not the end of his work on the issue of combat vehicle safety and reform.

"The next objective, apart from all the safety reforms ... is to say, 'Wait a minute, the leadership has to pay for this. They're not getting off scot-free,'" he said.

"It comes down to two specific things; one is acceptance of responsibility. The second is accountability, which means you can get fired."

-- Konstantin Toropin can be reached at konstantin.toropin@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @ktoropin.

Related: Fallen Troops' Families Demand Action After Spate of Military Vehicle Rollover Deaths
The U.S. Coast Guard and Department of Homeland Security have stepped up their watch of the Caribbean and Florida Straits to keep Cubans and Haitians from migrating to the U.S. by sea, officials said this week.

Coast Guard 7th District Commander Rear Adm. Eric Jones said Monday that the service is "monitoring any activity that may indicate increases in unsafe and illegal maritime migration in the Florida Straits," including boats leaving Florida to take supplies to support protests in Cuba.

He added that 20 people have died "in recent weeks" as the result of unsafe voyages.

"The transit is dangerous and unforgiving," Jones wrote in a statement released Monday via Twitter. "The Coast Guard and our federal partners maintain persistent and vigilant airborne and surface patrols in the Caribbean, including the Florida Straits, to ensure the safety of life at sea for all mariners. Please don't take to the sea."

DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said Tuesday the department sent three people as part of a U.S. delegation to Haiti in response to that government's request for support after the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise last week.

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The Coast Guard also has dispatched two cutters "to the coast of Haiti, in addition to three others already in nearby waters," he added.

"Our priority is to preserve and save lives," Mayorkas said in a news conference on maritime migrant interdiction operations. "The time is never right to attempt migration by sea. To those who risk their lives doing so, this risk is not worth taking. Allow me to be clear: If you take to the Sea, you will not come to the United States."

A spokeswoman for the 7th District said Wednesday, however, that the service maintains a continuous presence in the area and its current operations tempo in the Caribbean and Florida Straits could be described as "normal."

Public Affairs Specialist 1st Class Nicole Groll declined to name the cutters that are currently deployed to the region, citing operational security, but said all Coast Guard vessels in the area have a mission of "safety of life at sea."

"We always have at least one cutter and always at least one overflight of the Florida Straits," Groll said.

This fiscal year, the Coast Guard has intercepted 554 migrants from Cuba, up from 49 in fiscal 2020. The numbers are a marked decrease from fiscal 2016, the year before then-President Barack Obama ended the "wet foot, dry foot policy" that allowed Cubans who arrived on land in the U.S. without a visa to become permanent residents.

In 2016, 5,396 Cubans were picked up by the Coast Guard at sea and returned to Cuba.

On Saturday, the Fast Response Cutter Kathleen Moore repatriated 23 Cubans, having picked them up 15 miles south of Big Pine Key, 30 miles east of Key West.

The operation occurred as demonstrations erupted across Cuba, with residents protesting shortages of goods, electrical blackouts and the government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mayorkas said Tuesday that the U.S. "stands in solidarity with the Cuban people." But, he added, Cubans attempting to leave the island to reach the U.S. will not be allowed to enter.

"Migrants who do attempt to enter the United States by sea put their lives at incredible risk. The waters in the straits of Florida in the Caribbean are dangerous, especially now as we have entered hurricane season. People will die," he said.

In May, the government gave Haitians temporary protected status for 18 months, meaning those currently in the U.S. may remain in the country if they meet eligibility requirements.

-- Patricia Kime can be reached at Patricia.Kime@Monster.com. Follow her on Twitter @patriciakime.

Related: Security Is Lax at Major Arms Shipping Facilities, IG Finds
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates  An explosion Wednesday in Saudi Arabia struck what authorities described as an ammunition dump containing unserviceable munitions. Videos showed sparks, flames and smoke shooting out of a desert location southeast of Riyadh near a major air base.

The blast happened at 5:10 a.m. as the sun rose over the city of Kharj, Brig. Gen. Turki al-Malki said, according to a report by the state-run Saudi Press Agency. He described the blast as an accident.

Thankfully, no damages or injuries have occurred, al-Malki said. "The incident is being monitored by competent authorities.

Kharj is close to Prince Sultan Air Base, which has some 2,500 American troops now manning fighter jets and Patriot missile batteries to counter Iran. U.S.

Air Force Capt. Rachel Buitrago told The Associated Press that no American troops were affected by the blast and that they stood ready to assist the kingdom if needed after the blast.
The NCAA's chief operating officer, a former member of the Army's Judge Advocate General Corps, has been confirmed as the second-highest official at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

In a 91-8 vote, the U.S. Senate confirmed Donald Remy to serve as deputy secretary to Secretary Denis McDonough. The department has not had a Senate-confirmed deputy since James Byrne, who was fired in February 2020 by then Secretary Robert Wilkie.

Dr. Carolyn Clancy, an internist, researcher and 18-year veteran of the department who has worn many hats at VA, has been serving as acting deputy secretary since the inauguration of President Joe Biden.

Remy, a graduate of Louisiana State University and Howard University School of Law, served as assistant to the General Counsel of the Army from 1991 to 1995, achieving the rank of captain. He later clerked for a judge on the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals and served as deputy assistant general for the Justice Department.

Following his stint at Justice, he worked as general counsel for the Federal National Mortgage Association, known as Fannie Mae. His job at Fannie Mae later derailed his nomination to General Counsel of the Army in 2009 by then-President Barack Obama when he failed to identify the corporation by name on nomination forms.

Read Next: Afghanistan Withdrawal a Mistake, May Lead to 'Unspeakable Harm' for Women, Bush Says

Fannie Mae went under government conservatorship amid the mortgage crisis in 2008.

Remy is the son of a Vietnam veteran, retired Army Master Sgt. Donald Remy, a recipient of the Bronze Star, and the brother of an Air Force veteran.

During his confirmation hearing on May 19, he pledged to deliver "on our promises to those who served and their families."

That includes upholding legislation passed by Congress, implementing the use of electronic health records, supporting veterans seeking benefits, and protecting whistleblowers.

"I think it's important to communicate to all of our workforce that whistleblowers will be protected in our environment, that the culture of the environment is such that we need to make people feel comfortable," Remy said during his hearing.

"I've been given a clear mission by Secretary McDonough, to use all my experience, skills, and leadership capabilities as the department's chief operating and management officer to help nurture a culture of excellence and motivate those around me to deliver on our shared values," he added.

-- Patricia Kime can be reached at Patricia.Kime@Monster.com. Follow her on Twitter @patriciakime.

Related: Nominee to Lead Pentagon Purchasing Withdraws Amid Investigation
The Pentagon on Thursday confirmed that some of the suspected assassins of Haitian President Jovenel Moise had received past training from the U.S. military while they were serving in the Colombian military.

In a statement, Pentagon spokesman Lt. Col. Ken Hoffman said that a review of training databases showed a "small number" of the Colombians who were detained as part of the investigation into Moise's assassination had taken part in U.S. military training and education programs.

The Washington Post first reported the suspected assassins' U.S. military ties.

Read Next: Study Finds Beard Waivers Slow Promotion, Mostly Affecting Black Airmen

Hoffman said the review is continuing, and further details were not available.

"The Department [of Defense] routinely conducts training for thousands of military men and women representing partner nations from South America, Central America and the Caribbean," Hoffman said. "This training emphasizes and promotes respect for human rights, compliance with the rule of law, and militaries subordinate to democratically elected civilian leadership."

The revelation could complicate the Haitian government's request for U.S. security assistance in the wake of the assassination, and raise more questions about the military's track record of training South American troops.

At least 18 men, including two who are believed to hold dual U.S.-Haitian citizenship and 15 Colombians, have been detained. Three were killed by Haiti police during a shootout.

Haitian authorities have identified members of the militia group responsible for the attack, a majority of them former Colombian commandos who also have ties to CTU Security, a Florida-based security company. Officials have also connected Christian Emmanuel Sanon, a pastor and doctor, to the assisination, which gravely wounded first lady Martine Moise at the presidential residence in Port-au-Prince July 7. Authorities allege that 63-year-old Sanon, who was arrested over the weekend, conspired to overthrow Moise from power. He maintains his innocence, according to multiple media reports.

After Moise's murder, the Haitian government asked the United States to send in troops to provide "security assistance." The Biden administration sent a team of officials, primarily from the FBI and the Homeland Security Department, to Haiti to review the situation and assist the Haitian government, but no Defense officials were part of that team.

Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby said on Monday the Pentagon is reviewing the request and discussing it with other agencies, but no decision had been reached.

U.S. troops are no strangers to Haiti. Service members were sent for previous humanitarian relief operations following the 2010 earthquake that devastated the country.

Roughly 22,000 service members deployed for medical assistance, food distribution and reconstruction efforts during a 6-month rotation.

Related: Florida Resident Detained as Latest Suspect in Haiti Killing
A new study has found that U.S. Air Force personnel may not be promoted as quickly as their peers if they decide to seek a shaving waiver to wear a beard while in service.

The findings, published in the journal Military Medicine last week, surveyed thousands of airmen to examine whether their careers were in jeopardy because of their appearance. The study sought to find out whether Black airmen were disproportionately affected in their careers by having a shaving waiver, the authors wrote.

The researchers found a direct link between those airmen who requested a waiver for a longer period of time and how fast the Air Force moved them up in the ranks.

Read Next: This Is How Many F-35 Fighter Jets Are Down for Engine Repair

For years, airmen have been able to request a shaving waiver on a case-by-case basis, but the Air Force's surgeon general last year approved a new five-year dispensation authorizing male airmen with a chronic inflammatory condition to keep their beards.

One of the conditions, known as Pseudofolliculitis Barbae, or PFB, causes razor bumps and painful ingrown beard hair -- and it commonly affects Black men. The change meant that airmen no longer needed to request an exemption on an annual basis.

The report concluded that the promotion system is not inherently biased based on race, but biased "against the presence of facial hair which will likely always affect the promotions of Blacks/African-Americans disproportionately." That's because Black airmen would more likely need to request a waiver over their white counterparts.

Beards are off-limits in more high-profile jobs, such as the military Honor Guard, recruiting, military training instructor, and even the Thunderbirds F-16 Fighting Falcon demonstration team.

More than 9,000 airmen completed a survey about their experience, with an overwhelming majority within the E-5 and E-6 ranks. The recent report follows a preliminary study released earlier this year.

The study was divided into two groups. One was made up of 8,200 members who had never received a waiver; the other group of 1,139 had received a waiver for at least one year at some point during their career. The majority of the waiver group was Black/AfricanAmerican.

Researchers said the interaction between race and waiver status was "not significant" because the results indicated shaving waivers are associated with delayed promotion "in individuals of all races." That said, 64% of the waiver group was made up of Black service members, despite making up only 12% of the entire cohort study.

By comparison, 76% of the no-waiver group was white. Besides rank, race and ethnicity, other factors weighed in the study were level of education, professional military education and disciplinary action.

The cumulative time an individual had requested the waiver mattered substantially.

For example, those promoted to staff sergeant or technical sergeant who had a shaving waiver for more than eight years saw promotion delayed by about six months to a year.

The waiver group also experienced more disciplinary action, according to the surveys the researchers analyzed.

The waiver group, predominantly made up of Black service members, had a rate of disciplinary action of roughly 19% compared to the no-waiver group at just 11.5%.

In December, the Air Force released the findings from its first-ever racial disparity review, which compared the experiences of Black service members with those of their peers. That six-month review concluded that Black airmen are nearly twice as likely to be suspects in a military criminal investigation, apprehended by a base patrol, or involuntarily discharged based on

misconduct.

The Air Force Inspector General's office received more than 123,000 survey responses from active-duty, Guard and Reserve members and conducted 138 group interviews -- ranging from 12 to 50 service members, officer and enlisted, per group in two-hour discussions -- to understand where Black airmen are at a disadvantage.

While the review confirmed racial disparity exists across multiple areas, including military justice and career development, it could not define the root causes, said Air Force Inspector General Lt. Gen. Sami Said in December after the first review's publication.

For some key findings, "we're not implying that [either] racism or bias is the causal factor of such risk disparity," Said told reporters at the time. "That requires more detailed assessment and analysis. When we say 'disparity,' it doesn't imply, immediately, racism, bias or otherwise."

-- Oriana Pawlyk can be reached at oriana.pawlyk@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @Oriana0214.

Related: New Air Force Survey Investigates Justice Disparities in Asian, Hispanic, Native Communities
BUCHAREST  A U.S. Black Hawk military helicopter training in Romania was forced to undertake an emergency landing Thursday in central Bucharest, bringing down two lampposts in the process. No one was injured.

The helicopter, which landed near the Arc De Triumph in Romanias capital, was one of several aircraft training Thursday in preparation for a military parade set to take place next week to mark the end of the Romanian Armys military missions in Afghanistan.

The helicopter reportedly lost altitude over the capital and traffic police cleared an area of vehicles and pedestrians at Charles de Gaulle Square in time for the landing. Its not yet clear what caused the incident, which is being investigated.

We regret the incident that happened Thursday  with a helicopter of the U.S. Armed Forces that was forced to land in Charles de Gaulle Square in Bucharest, Romanias ministry of defense said in a statement.

The pilot managed to control the aircraft so that there are no victims, and the material damage is reduced.

The U.S. embassy in Romania said that it was closely following the developments.

We are working with our Romanian partners to resolve the situation and we will provide updated information as it becomes available, an embassy press release said.

Romania  which became a member of NATO in 2004  has participated in Afghanistan military missions for 19 years with more than 32,000 troops. It repatriated its last 140 troops from the country at the end of May.
WASHINGTON  The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) today issued a safety advisory to the rail industry to better protect rail employees working on active tracks, or right-of-ways, under the supervision of a dispatcher.

"Clear communication is critical to keeping employees out of harm's way," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. "I want railway workers to return home safely to their families after their shift and it is the responsibility of the railroads and their employees to keep the work environment as safe as possible."

Safety Advisory 2014-02 Roadway Worker Authority Limits, highlights the need for railroads to ensure that appropriate safety redundancies are in place in the event an employee fails to comply with existing rules and procedures. The advisory describes several related incidents and stresses the importance of clear communication and the need for railroads to monitor their employees for compliance. This Safety Advisory satisfies one National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) safety recommendation related to dispatchers and partially addresses another related to redundant signal protection.

There are three safety measures in the advisory designed to reduce incidents that FRA expects railroads to take action on immediately:

Increase monitoring of their employees for compliance with existing applicable rules and procedures. Examine train dispatching systems, rules, and procedures to ensure that appropriate safety redundancies are in place. If a railroad determines that appropriate safety redundancies are not in place, adopt electronic technologysuch as the Enhanced Employee Protection System, Hi-Rail Limits Compliance System, and the Train Approach Warning Systemthat would provide appropriate safety redundancies.

Until such technologies are in place, railroads should stress importance of dispatchers being advised of roadway workers' whereabouts and work plans; forbid student dispatchers from removing blocking devices until confirmed by a supervisor; and that, prior to passing any absolute signal, a roadway worker should verify the limits of his or her authority.

FRA believes Positive Train Control, a system for monitoring and controlling train movements to enhance safety, would have prevented the incidents described in the Safety Advisory.

However, where Positive Train Control is not in effect, FRA recommends that railroads adopt one or more electronic technologies that may serve to fill the technology gap and safeguard roadway workers.
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan  Australian mining companies are head-hunting U.S. war veterans to work Down Under as electricians, carpenters and heavy equipment operators.

Australian exports of minerals such as gold, iron ore, oil, gas and coal have more than tripled in the past decade to $190.5 billion last year, with China accounting for a third of the total, according to the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Additionally, dozens of new mines are planned but, with a population of just 22 million, there arent enough skilled Australian workers to fill all of the jobs being created.

In May, the Australian government streamlined procedures for Americans, with new visas allowing skilled workers to stay in the country for four years. Those with job offers can apply online and get approval in a matter of days, according to Australian recruiters.

With the war in Afghanistan winding down and the Army and Marine Corps ordered to cut 100,000 troops over the next five years, the Australian job offers couldnt come at a better time for many servicemembers who soon might be unemployed. Despite President Obamas efforts to encourage more government and private sector hiring of veterans, the unemployment rate for those who served in the post-9/11 era remains high. Last month, 8.9 percent of recent veterans were out of work, which is better than previous years but still above the overall U.S. unemployment rate.

Australian government officials, employment consultants and mining company representatives believe U.S. veterans have some of the skills they need and have been attending job fairs in places like Houston and Detroit in recent months to woo them.

Colleen Lucas, a recruiter with Employment in Australia, traveled to the Detroit job show to interview 15 U.S. veterans for jobs as diesel mechanics.

The mechanics can expect starting base pay of at least $65,000 a year, she said, adding that engineers and project managers could expect at least $200,000 annually. Australian companies are attracted to veterans because many have experience operating the same type of heavy equipment used in mines, she said.

It is exactly the same, but some of the mining machinery is bigger, she said. The computer systems are the same too, and some of these machines have five computers in them. That is a great synergy for the diesel mechanics and heavy equipment operators.

Sandi Logan, a spokesman for the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship, said officials who attended the U.S. job fairs were looking to fill 400 to 500 skilled positions.

Our resources sector is particularly keen to get people like electricians, plumbers and carpenters, he said.

Some of the things that make U.S. veterans attractive for Australian companies include English-language proficiency, a lifestyle similar to that of Australians, qualifications accepted in Australia and the possibility that they might have personal connections to the country, he said.

In most surveys when Americans are asked where they would like to go, Australia tops or is close to the top of their list, Logan said. It is not like we are trying to persuade them to come somewhere that they dont want to go. They can have the dream and a well-paid job.

Jeff Clifton, an Australian mining projects manager who also interviewed veterans at the Detroit jobs fair, told an Australian television channel that his company, Mackellar Mining, cant find enough skilled Australians to fill all of its available jobs.

There are some good tradespeople, but with the boom going on, they are always jumping the fence and going somewhere else or moving onto bigger and better things, he said. We have a real shortage of mechanical tradespeople at the moment, especially with Caterpillar experience.

Jobs that support mining also are going unfilled, Lucas said. The massive construction industry is looking for workers to help make new roads, railways, buildings and other infrastructure.

There are a lot of projects in the start-up phase, so they also need a lot of project planners, she said, adding that military personnel involved in logistics may be able to transfer their skills to the civilian marketplace.

Australia would be happy to open its arms to U.S. veterans, Kim Beazley, Australian ambassador to the U.S., said in comments posted by the Australian immigration department.

In Australia, we have a culture of assuming that men and women who have been through the defense forces arrive in the broader community with very great skills discipline and motivation and, therefore, we assume that a similar atmosphere surrounds those who are veterans of American armed services, he said.

The immigration department has posted interviews with U.S. soldiers considering a move Down Under on its website.

Army veteran John-Edward Kanewske, who said he was wounded in Afghanistan in September 2007, appears in one interview, saying his dream is to live and work in Australia.

Ive been in stressful situations and know how to overcome them, he said, adding that hed learned to work with people from all nationalities and walks of life during his military service.

Chase Thompson, a former soldier who deployed to Afghanistan with the 173rd Airborne Brigade, also appears in the video, saying U.S. veterans have a lot to offer.

We come from working in really difficult situations facing a lot of adversity and we are willing to get the job done no matter what it takes, he said.

U.S. veterans recruited to work Down Under will receive the same wages as their Australian workmates, Logan said.

In the resources industry, the average salary is about $100,000, and qualified professionals such as electricians and plumbers can receive $150,000 to $175,000, Logan said, adding that the high salaries reflect big commitments by workers.

Veterans who like their new lifestyle can apply for permanent residence or Australian citizenship, and most will receive it, he said.

The majority of skilled migrants end up taking out citizenship, and we welcome that, he said. We are not a nation that is reliant on guest workers. When people come to build Australia, we invite them to become part of the nation.

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Whenever there is a presidential election, especially when there is a party change, government jobs see quite a few openings in the area of political appointments.

What might surprise veterans is that these appointments, known as Schedule C positions, are not strictly for senior positions or people connected to the president. In fact, there is a website set up for applicants to apply for Schedule C positions.

Related: Search for government jobs.

Does it help to be connected or involved in the campaign? Of course, networking is always a plus, but there are other ways to go about it as well.

Types of Schedule C Positions

The best way to find these positions is probably to look up the book, "United States Government Policy and Supporting Positions," which is published shortly after each presidential election. The book contains a list of more than 9,000 civil service leadership and support positions that might qualify.

Many of these political appointments require White House Office of Presidential Personnel approval, but are appointed through government agencies. Others require Senate confirmation, but those are the high-ranking positions that you are likely not going for, as they are made exclusively by the White House.

Where to Apply

The website to apply for political appointee positions is at Apply.WhiteHouse.Gov. Remember that you can apply based on your qualifications alone, so don't be scared off by your preconceived notion of political appointees.

That said, the positions are extremely competitive, so you'd be smart to do everything you can to make yourself shine.

Related: Does your resume pass the 6-second test? Get a FREE assessment.

How to Position Yourself for Such a Position

While you were in the military, you were likely not involved in politics (for many reasons), but veterans who have been out for a longer period of time might have become very involved. Even while you are still on active duty, you can start planning how to get involved.

Some ways to position yourself for these jobs are to network as much as you can, volunteer for campaigns or transition teams, and remember to keep in touch with as many professional contacts as you can.

If you're wealthy, donations can be another way to be noticed.

Whether any of these apply to you, experience and expertise should always be relevant and promoted.

An Interview with Veteran Turned Political Appointee, Tom Baltazar

Tom Baltazar was kind enough to share advice and lessons learned from his experience going from the military to becoming a political appointee.

Baltazar left the U.S. Army as a colonel, after 26 years of service. He took an appointment about two weeks after retiring in October 2005. In the Army, he worked as a combat engineer, deep sea/hard hat, master parachutist and combat diver, as well as in civil affairs and psychological operations.

He now works in U.S. government contracting.

As you can see by his answers, networking and being ready to jump on an opportunity can both be determining factors in these types of situations -- but don't forget that it's not the only way to get the job.

Q: How did you find yourself transitioning from the military to working as a political appointee?

A: During my military career, I had developed a friendship with an Army Reserve Civil Affairs officer, Michael Hess, who had recently been confirmed as the assistant administrator [assistant secretary level that requires Senate confirmation] for the Bureau of Democracy, Conflict and Humanitarian Assistance.

He came to my retirement ceremony and told me that the USAID administrator, Andrew Natsios, had come to the conclusion that, after almost seven years into the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan at less-than-optimal effectiveness, USAID needed to formalize their relationship with DoD. Natsios, by the way, had also been an Army Reserve civil affairs officer and that's how he knew Hess.

Hess asked if I would be interested in interviewing for the job of standing up an Office of Military Affairs in USAID, and I said yes. He arranged for a meeting with Natsios the following week. The meeting was attended by Natsios, Hess, myself and the White House liaison (I forget his name but every senior appointee has one assigned to them, kind of like a political commissar).

At the end of the meeting, Natsios told me that the quickest way to get me on board was by political appointment and asked if I was OK with that. Here's where the White House guy asked me if I'd ever been or voted Democrat. I told Natsios I was OK with being a political appointee, and he told me he would send my information to the White House personnel to be vetted.

About a week later, I was informed that I had the job and to report to work.

Q: Is there any competition for positions like the one you took?

A: There was no competition for this particular position. White House personnel does all the vetting and makes recommendations to fill various positions (look at the Plum Book for the list of all political positions). A lot of these positions are given to people or their friends/relatives who have either contributed money or time or both to the campaign.

Q: Is there anything about these positions that requires special qualifications? Would a day in the life of a political appointee be any different than that of a GS employee?

A: Not necessarily. A lot of these Plum Book positions are lower-level ones and, for those, there is little to no difference, other than you don't have the same benefits as a GS employee. You are also expected to attend all the political rallies.

Q: Transitioning out of the government, did being a political appointee help with your career change and future career path?

A: Not really, as I transitioned away from the U.S. government. Additionally, I did not take advantage of the contacts/network of other appointees to parlay my position into a follow-on job. That certainly is something that others took advantage of. Another "game" played is to turn the political appointment into a permanent GS position. There are specific laws prohibiting that, but there are ways around those laws.

Q: Do you have one last bit of advice for veterans in the civilian job search?

A: My experience both in and out of government is that it's all about your network. Very few people secure employment by applying for a job. Having an insider pulling for you is the best way to get a job. That said, my advice would be to use your network and never stop building it. This is, by definition, a two-way street. When people reach out to you for help, make an effort to fulfill that request -- it will always pay you back with interest!

Start working the angles now, and pay close attention to the next election results. The next election could determine your future career.

Related: For the latest veteran jobs postings around the country, visit the Military.com Job Search section.

The Next Step: Find the Right Job

Whether you want to polish up your resume, find veteran job fairs in your area, or connect with employers looking to hire veterans, Military.com can help. Sign up for a free Military.com membership to have job postings, guides and advice, and more delivered directly to your inbox.
Moving is a way of life for many people today. For nurses, whether crisscrossing the country or just moving over state lines, obtaining licensure in the new state is usually essential.

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) administers a program called the mutual recognition model. This interstate compact allows nurses licensed in a state that is part of the program to practice in other states within the program and have their current licenses be recognized. There are, of course, rules and regulations that must be adhered to depending on the specific state.

The problem with this particular plan is that currently only 23 states, including Arizona, Colorado, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia, have entered into the nurses' licensure compact.

More states, such as Missouri, are expected to pass legislation for the compact shortly. This will make it much easier for nurses to practice across state borders. If you are interested in finding out if and when your state might take part in the program, contact your local state board of nursing.

Researching License Requirements

If you don't live in one of the states covered by the new compact, don't despair. It might take some time to research another state's nursing license requirements, and perhaps some additional classes or tests to get licensed, but it will be worth it.

Let's say you fulfilled your lifelong dream of becoming a registered nurse. You're living and working in Manhattan at a great teaching hospital. But after a long winter, you decide you love your job, but you really don't like the cold weather, ice and snow. Florida starts to look very good. What's better, you checked out the job situation, and you'll have no trouble finding employment.

Your state nursing license is from New York, but you want to work in Florida. What do you have to do?

Generally, to obtain licensure in another state, nurses must meet the requirements of the specific state in which they are interested in working and then obtain another license from that state. There are a number of ways to go about this.

* Check with the specific state board of nursing. Your current state board of nursing can usually give you the contact information for other state boards. * Obtain information from your potential employer. With the current nursing shortage, many employers are happy to provide new employees with assistance on how to get licensed. * Do research on the Internet. Search for information on specific state licensing requirements, license periods, fees, continuing-education requirements, etc.

In the end, you'll have a nursing license to do what you love in another state.
People with disabilities can pursue successful careers in the health care field, but it's not easy. The opportunities are out there, and so are the obstacles, from facilities and equipment that may need expensive accommodations to licensing requirements that necessarily put patient care and safety above all else.

It's often the organizations and resources job seekers with disabilities use that make all the difference when it comes to landing a health care job.

Related: Search for Healthcare & Nursing jobs.

Employers Make Accommodations

If only because they must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, major health care employers -- from home-care agencies to hospitals -- are finding ways to integrate workers with disabilities into their workforces.

"If they're in a wheelchair, we assess their ability to perform essential job functions," says Brandon Melton, senior vice president of human resources at Lifespan, a 10,000-employee health care system in Providence, Rhode Island. "We don't assume that a person with a disability can't do something."

Still, candidates with disabilities are more likely to find employment in a support function for a health care organization than in a position where they directly provide health care. For example, Lifespan hired a deaf woman to run the records-keeping function in its human resources department.

One way to gauge an employer's commitment is to examine how they accommodate workers' disabilities. Highmark, a Blue Cross Blue Shield plan in Pittsburgh, dedicates money to accommodations. "We've centralized our accommodations budget -- that way, there's no hardship to the hiring manager" when an employee with a disability is brought on, says Tammie McNaughton, director of corporate workforce initiatives. "We also communicate to managers that disability is a part of diversity."

Related: Does your resume pass the 6-second test? Get a FREE assessment.

Programs for Aspiring Health Care Workers

Some would-be health care workers enter the field by simply getting training and filling out job applications; others take advantage of programs specifically designed to recruit trainees with disabilities.

These programs can start as early as high school. Project Search at the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center gives high school students with disabilities (most often cognitive disabilities) exposure to careers with health care providers. "We look for nonstereotypical work," says Erin Riehle, co-director of the project. For example, "we have a woman with Down's syndrome who works in dental sterilization."

Other programs to train and recruit health care workers have been started up by organizations that advocate for people with disabilities. "Lab jobs provide wonderful entry-level opportunities for people with disabilities," says Francine Tishman, executive director of Abilities, in Albertson, New York. The organization's laboratory assistant training program has collaborated with health care employers to educate more than 400 students with various disabilities. Companies like OSI Pharmaceuticals and Quest Diagnostics have hired 70 percent of graduates.

Other Resources for Workers with Disabilities

Federal and state governments can help people with disabilities open occupational doors. Check out the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy and the Department of Education's directory of state vocational rehabilitation agencies. These agencies sometimes work with employers and nonprofit organizations to bring people into the health care field.

A few organizations offer help to workers with specific disabilities in certain health care occupations, including the Association of Medical Professionals with Hearing Losses and the National Organization of Nurses with Disabilities.

Related: Discover your perfect career path and get customized job recommendations based on your military experience and vocational interests with Military.com's Military Skills Translator + Personality Assessment.

The Next Step: Find the Right Veteran Job

Whether you want to polish up your resume, find veteran job fairs in your area, or connect with employers looking to hire veterans, Military.com can help. Sign up for a free Military.com membership to have job postings, guides and advice, and more delivered directly to your inbox.
Afraid you've made the wrong career choice? Don't panic. It's never too late to make a fresh start. Not only are today's workers more likely than those of past generations to switch employers several times during their careers, they're also more likely to change professions.

"Life is too short to do something that is not making you happy," says Susan Scher, MD. Fourteen years ago she opened a medical marketing and public relations firm in San Francisco after realizing she didn't want to practice clinical medicine. If the idea of continuing down the professional path you're on is more stressful than thinking about pursuing something new, you're probably due for a career change, she says.

Three successful career changers -- one who left healthcare, one who entered healthcare and one who went in a new direction within the industry -- tell why and how they took control, and the lessons they learned throughout the process.

From Phlebotomist to Programmer

Five years as a hospital phlebotomist was enough for Dorothy Power, a young mother from Hubbardston, Massachusetts. Power was tired of the risks involved in drawing blood, as well as the required holiday and weekend hours. "Morale was going down at the hospital, and my position seemed like a dead end," Power says.

Some of Power's former colleagues suggested she follow in their footsteps by attending Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), which trains people for high tech positions. She attended the institute part-time for eight months, learning programming languages like Unix, C and C++. During her time at WPI, she attended two job fairs organized by the school. At the second event, she landed a job as a programmer/analyst at a medical billing software company. "My medical background helped me get the job," she says. "They liked the fact that I had seen the user side of their software at my hospital job."

At her new company, Power's starting salary was higher than what she was making after five years in phlebotomy. Plus, she's working regular hours. "I tell other people to go for it all the time," she says. "I was nervous going into it, but it turned out to be easier than I thought."

The bottom line: You can find a career more conducive to your lifestyle.

From Photographer to Nurse

Despite healthcare's current challenges, many people are still thrilled to be entering the field. Margaret Kaye is one of them.

Kaye graduated from college with an art history degree and then traveled extensively in Europe before returning to the US to work as a newspaper photographer. She had long considered becoming a nurse, but she made her decision during a photography trip to Bangladesh. She had gone there with Interplast, a nonprofit organization that sends teams of medical volunteers to developing countries to provide free reconstructive surgery to children. While on the trip, Kaye's job was to photograph the emotions of patients before and after their life-altering surgeries. "I realized I wanted to do more than take pictures," Kaye says. "I felt like I was on the outside looking in."

When Kaye returned home, she started taking courses required to enter nursing school. She enrolled at De Anza College in Cupertino, California, a few years later, and has no regrets about her decision. "With a skill set like nursing, I can go anywhere in the world and have a job," Kaye says. Like Power, Kaye believes a major career change is worth the effort. "It may be expensive and hard, but you only have one life," she says.

The bottom line: You have to be both enthusiastic and realistic about a career change.

From Marketing Manager to Entrepreneur

Ian Cordes of West Palm Beach, Florida, was lying in a hospital bed recovering from gallbladder surgery when he got some bad news. The chain of nursing homes he worked for as a marketing manager had been sold, and his regional office was being closed. "I was totally stunned," he says. "I didn't see it coming."

When he got out of the hospital, Cordes was offered another position in the company, but it wasn't a job he wanted. "When I said no, I wasn't thinking about the consequences, which is probably a good thing or I'd still be there," he says. Cordes sent out dozens of resumes and letters and contacted headhunters. But since he wanted to stay in the realm of long-term care marketing, he couldn't find the right opportunity.

Fortunately, he received severance pay for several months. He devoted that time to learning how to use computers and desktop publishing programs like Pagemaker. A few months after his layoff, he launched his own business, called Corecare, and landed a newsletter account with the state's long-term care association.

His industry contacts also came in handy. "Folks who used to provide goods and services to me started to hire me to do their marketing, advertising and brochures," Cordes says. "I really leveraged what I knew and who I knew in terms of my network, and I've met a lot more people since then."

The first five years were "difficult," he says, and his wife worked full-time just to get health insurance. But he knows he made the right move. "It seemed daring at the time, but I knew if I didn't take the step then, I'd never take it," he says. Being an entrepreneur "is really very satisfying, and it all happened almost by accident," he says.

The bottom line: If you're transitioning to a new career within the healthcare industry, take advantage of your skills, past experiences and network of contacts.
Have you ever considered lending a helping hand abroad? As a healthcare professional, you can make a dramatic difference in the lives of people all over the world by volunteering with an international health organization.

Whether you choose to join a two-week surgical mission or a two-year health education campaign, your experience is likely to be memorable. Here's a rundown of a few of the many organizations that provide international volunteer opportunities for healthcare professionals.

Related: Search for Healthcare & Nursing jobs.

Doctors Without Borders

Doctors Without Borders provides medical relief to victims of disaster, hardship and war throughout the world. Medical volunteers for the organization, which is internationally called Medecins Sans Frontieres, work all over the globe in sometimes dangerous conditions. The organization generally recruits experienced medical personnel with at least two years of professional experience. Volunteers, who must sign up for a minimum of six months, include physicians, general surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nutritionists, epidemiologists, midwives and other health professionals.

Health Volunteers Overseas

Medical volunteers with Health Volunteers Overseas (HVO) work as teachers rather than primary healthcare providers in the countries they visit. HVO volunteers train and educate local healthcare providers in specialty areas, including anesthesia, dentistry, internal medicine, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthopedics, pediatrics and physical therapy. Most HVO programs require volunteers to serve for one month, but there are some sites where volunteers may serve for two weeks. Spouses and families can accompany volunteers on their assignments. Family members without clinical training can work as teachers, administrators or in a variety of other capacities.

Interplast

Interplast provides free reconstructive surgery for children in developing countries. The organization sponsors 35 surgical trips each year, sending teams of medical volunteers to countries such as Bangladesh, Ecuador, Nepal and Vietnam. Nearly 3,000 children are treated each year by medical teams made up of plastic surgeons, anesthesiologists, pediatricians, pediatric urologists, operating room nurses, recovery room nurses and nurse educators. The medical teams typically spend two weeks at each site, providing surgeries for an average of 100 children.

Peace Corps

Thousands of Peace Corps health volunteers scatter around the globe each year to begin two-year stints raising awareness about the need for health education. From setting up training sessions on nutrition and sanitation to promoting prenatal care and vaccinations, Peace Corps health volunteers play the role of community catalysts on health issues. Peace Corps health volunteers come from a variety of educational backgrounds, although they usually have a bachelor's degree and an interest in health. People with more extensive healthcare backgrounds -- such as graduates of master's in public health programs and physician assistants -- may be called upon to spearhead large-scale public health initiatives.

More Resources

For extensive lists of organizations with overseas opportunities for health professionals and students, check InterAction, a coalition of US private and voluntary organizations dedicated to international humanitarian issues, and Brown University's International Health Institute. Idealist.org lists thousands more volunteering opportunities, many dealing with healthcare issues overseas.

Closer to Home: The American Red Cross

You don't have to go overseas to make a difference as a health volunteer. The American Red Cross, the largest humanitarian organization in the US, depends on volunteers to provide relief to victims of disaster and to help people respond to emergencies. The Red Cross trains people of all ages and backgrounds for volunteer positions. Volunteers with nursing and mental health backgrounds are particularly vital to Red Cross operations.

Related: To apply for jobs that match your skills, visit the Military Skills Translator.

The Next Step: Find the Right Veteran Job

Whether you want to polish up your resume, find veteran job fairs in your area, or connect with employers looking to hire veterans, Military.com can help. Sign up for a free Military.com membership to have job postings, guides and advice, and more delivered directly to your inbox.
Mark Etelamaki is a Marine Corps veteran who is a sales associate for Banana Republic in Virginia Beach, Virginia. We asked Mark about his experiences with Banana Republic, and how his military background has helped in his current role.

Can you tell us about your background?

I was in the Marine Corps for seven years, four of which were on active duty. I started out as every other Marine but within about two years and ten months I was a sergeant, rank of E-5. We weren't involved in any wars at the time, but I spent a lot of time overseas and traveling around the world, and doing all the real Marine Corps stuff, like amphibious landings, and calling in artillery and naval gunfire.

After I left active duty I briefly went into retail, working as a manager with K-Mart in apparel, and I did that for about six months before I went to university to study political science. After university I spent over 14 years as an agent with the diplomatic security service. It was like high-end bodyguard protection for the State Department. It was an interesting job because I spent most of my time overseas assigned to a U.S. embassy, so I basically used everything I learned in the military and at university. I was like a diplomat who was also a law enforcement officer who was also in charge of security, so I did a lot of different things.

What led you to your current job at Banana Republic?

I've got my own company now where I do a lot of consulting on emergency management issues, but I needed supplemental income, and I've been a Banana Republic customer since the 80s, since they had the right kind of apparel I needed in my government position. In my job as a bodyguard, you have to look good, but the clothing has to be versatile as well, and Banana Republic fit that for me. So I was always a happy customer, and it was natural for me to look into working there.

How has the transition been to becoming an employee?

It's been almost seamless. The big thing that drives Banana Republic is the customer experience. We emphasize that, and connecting with your customer, so it's just been a very positive experience as an employee. It's just a great place to work and I love it. I think our customers, especially our repeat customers, the people we see over and over again, are very loyal. There's a very personal touch to everything, and you feel that commitment. Everyone I've met -- my fellow sales associates, the management team, district sales associates -- has the same consistently positive attitude. It's one of the greatest places to work because it's such a positive environment for employees and customers. It's a place where you're allowed to blossom, and be the best. It's like a core principle -- it's a people-oriented business, and you can only make connections with other people when you're happy and content. You feel like you're well-supported, and the people around you are the same way. It's good people surrounded by good people, which is probably one of the reasons we're successful as a company.

What's a typical "day in the life" for you?

I work a lot of mornings -- there's a lot of routine stuff to take care of before the store opens, like making sure the fitting rooms and customer areas are clean, and our displays are properly set up. As soon as the doors open, my day mainly involves greeting customers, and helping them select outfits. In our market here at Hampton Roads in Virginia Beach, we have a lot of military customers, including foreign military, from Great Britain and Germany. For me it's interesting, as I've met people who know the type of work I did for the State Department, so you're still making those same connections. Physically, it's the same crowd of people, so it's actually been a very smooth transition for me, which is why I feel at home here.

What general advice would you have for veterans interested in retail jobs?

I would just say to be yourself. For every career, you have to be who you are. In a job where you're defined by what you do every day and how you relate with people, being who you are is far more important than your technical skills. Besides the technical skills, the military develops who you are as a person, so when I came out of the military I sold myself as a leader. I got into retail management early in my career because [leadership] was recognized in me. It's important to make a self-assessment, be who you are, and who you are goes beyond the technical specifics of what you do in your job. Even working in Banana Republic I'm still drawing upon skills and knowledge I learned in the military, like how to dress properly -- that was a really big thing in the Marine Corps. You can look good or you can look great, and the emphasis [in the Marine Corps] was on being the best that you can be, all the time. Our uniforms had to be perfectly hung the right way, your clothing had to be folded, everything had to be neat and presentable in the way you dressed -- your shirts, your ties, your trousers, your shoes, everything. It was a very high standard and I still draw on that every day when I serve customers.

[For Banana Republic discounts for servicemembers, veterans and families, visit the Military.com Discount Center.]
Capt. Douglas J. Pegher took the helm to become the eighth naval officer to serve as the Center for Security Forces commanding officer.
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How to use the mindat.org media viewer

Click/touch this help panel to close it.

Welcome to the mindat.org media viewer. Here is a quick guide to some of the options available to you. Different controls are available depending on the type of media being shown (photo, video, animation, 3d image)

Controls - all media types

Zoom in and out of media using your mousewheel or with a two-finger 'resize' action on a touch device.

Use the mouse or your finger to drag the image or the view area of the image around the screen.

< and > at the left and right hand side of the screen move forwards and backwards for the other images associated with the media you selected. Usually this is used for previous/next photo in a gallery, in an article or in search results. Keyboard shortcuts: use shift + the left and right arrow keys.

< and > in the bottom center are used for switching between the photos of the same specimen. Keyboard shortcuts: use the left and right arrow keys.

> in the bottom center, raises the information box giving details and further options for the media, < at the top of this box then hides it. Keyboard shortcuts: use the up and down arrow keys.

? opens this help window. Keyboard shortcuts: use the H key or the ? key.

Other keyboard shortcuts:

1 Fit image to screen 2 Fill screen with image 5 Display at full resolution < Make background darker > Make background lighter space Hide/dim titles and buttons

Scalebar

If the field of view (FOV) is specified for the photo, the scalebar appears in the left bottom corner of the viewer. The scalebar is draggable and resizeable. Drag the right edge to resize it. Double click will reset the scalebar to it's default size and position. If the scalebar is in default position, double click will make it circular.

Controls - Video

Video files have a standard set of video controls: - Reset to start, - Skip back, - Play, - Pause, - Skip forwards. Keyboard shortcuts: You can stop/start video play with the P key.

Controls - Animation (Spin Rotation)

Animation (usually 360 degree spin rotations) have their own controls: - enable spin mode. Note that while images are loading this option will not be available but will be automatically activated when the animation has loaded. Once active you can spin the image/change the animation by moving your mouse or finger on the image left/right or by pressing the [ or ] keys.

The button switches to move mode so that you can use your mouse/fingers to move the image around the screen as with other media types.

The button, or the P key will start playing the animation directly, you can interrupt this by using the mouse or finger on the image to regain manual movement control.

Controls - 3D Stereoscopic images

If a stereoscopic 3D image is opened in the viewer, the 3D button appears in the bottom right corner giving access to "3D settings" menu. The 3D images can be viewed in several ways:

- without any special equipment using cross-eyed or parallel-eyed method

- with stereoscope

- with anaglyph glasses.

- on a suitable 3D TV or monitor (passive 3D system)

For details about 3D refer to: Mindat manuals: Mindat Media Viewer: 3D

To enable/disable 3D stereo display of a compatible stereo pair image press the 3 key. If the left/right images are reversed on your display (this often happens in full-screen mode) press the 4 key to reverse them.

Controls - photo comparison mode

If a photo with activated comparison mode is opened in the viewer, the button appears in the bottom right corner giving access to "Comparison mode settings" menu.

Several layouts are supported: slider and side by-side comparison with up to 6 photos shown synchronously on the screen. On each of the compared photos a view selector is placed, e.g.: Longwave UV . It shows the name of currently selected view and allows to select a view for each placeholder.

Summary of all keyboard shortcuts
Data collected since March by Sand Flats Recreation Area staff show that on busy weekends over 300 UTVs drive past the entry booth daily, eith
Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) officials have seized 714 grams of gold jewellery bearing spurious BIS Hallmark during its search and seizure operation at Andheri in Mumbai.

"During the search and seizure operation at the premises of Classic Karat Assay Lab Pvt Ltd, located at Unit No24 in Mistry Industrial Complex at Andheri East, the company was found to be misusing the BIS Hallmark on gold jewellery belonging to Amore Jewels Pvt Ltd, Abans Jewels Pvt Ltd, Om Shilpi Jewels and Gems Pvt Ltd, Satkar Jewellers, Kalash Gold & Ornaments Pvt Ltd, Kalash Jewels, and Uni-Design Jewellery (India) Pvt Ltd, without valid BIS recognition," the agency says in a release.

As per the hallmarking of gold jewellery and gold artefacts order, 2020 issued by the department of consumer affairs, gold jewellery and gold artefacts shall mandatorily bear BIS Hallmark, starting from 16 June 2021, onwards.

The BIS Hallmark presently consists of 3 parts - BIS logo, purity in carat and fineness, and a six-digit alpha-numeric hallmarking unique identity (HUID) number, which is different for each article or artefact. The jewellery can be sold only by jewellers registered with BIS, and can be hallmarked only by BIS recognised assaying and hallmarking centres (AHCs).

The misuse of BIS standard mark, including hallmark, is punishable with imprisonment up to two years or a fine of minimum Rs2 lakh, which may extend up to 10 times the value of articles affixed or applied with a standard mark, including hallmark, or both as per BIS Act 2016. Action is being initiated to file a case in the court of law for the above offence. The misuse of BIS standard mark, including hallmark, is punishable with imprisonment up to two years or a fine of minimum Rs2 lakh, which may extend up to 10 times the value of articles affixed or applied with a standard mark, including hallmark, or both as per BIS Act 2016. Action is being initiated to file a case in the court of law for the above offence.

BIS says it has been observed many times that spuriously hallmarked jewellery is sold to consumers for huge profit. Therefore, it says, all customers are requested to look for complete BIS hallmark, including BIS logo, purity in carat and fineness, and HUID on jewellery. Details of certified jewellers can also be seen before making the purchase by using the 'BIS CARE' mobile app and visiting BIS website http://www.bis.gov.in

Citizens are requested that in case they come across any instance of misuse of BIS Hallmark on any jewellery/article, the same may be informed to, The Deputy Director General, Western Regional Office, BIS, Manakalaya, E-9, Behind Marol Telephone Exchange, Andheri (East), Mumbai - 400 093. Such complaints can also be made by e-mail at [email protected]

The source of such information will be kept confidential, BIS added.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced the launch of Retail Direct scheme, allowing retail investors to open free gilt accounts directly with the central bank.

Opening the Retail Direct Gilt (RDG) account will allow retail investors to buy government dated securities, treasury bills, state development loans and sovereign gold bonds.

Currently, investors wanting to...
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed changes in rules for fundraising by primary (urban) co-operative banks.

On Wednesday, the central bank released a draft circular for issue and regulation of share capital and securities of primary (urban) co-operative banks.

"UCBs are permitted to raise equity share capital, as hitherto, by way of issue of equity shares to persons within their area of operation enrolled as members, in accordance with the provisions of their bye-laws, and issue of additional equity shares to the existing members," it said.

The RBI has proposed that any refund of share capital to members, or their nominees, should be subject to the certain conditions -- the bank's capital adequacy ratio is 9 per cent or above, both as per the latest audited financial statements and the last CRAR as assessed by the RBI during statutory inspection.

Such refund should not result in the bank's capital adequacy falling below regulatory minimum of 9 per cent.

The RBI has directed cooperative banks to ensure their investors are educated on the risk characteristics of regulatory capital requirements.

It has also asked cooperative banks to have a specific sign-off from the investors to ensure they have understood the features and risks of the instruments.

The urban co-operative banks have been asked to not benchmark floating rate instruments to the fixed deposit rate.

Disclaimer: Information, facts or opinions expressed in this news article are presented as sourced from IANS and do not reflect views of Moneylife and hence Moneylife is not responsible or liable for the same. As a source and news provider, IANS is responsible for accuracy, completeness, suitability and validity of any information in this article.
Is history repeating itself, with retail investors starting to trade algos without a regulatory structure in place? Until recently, we believed that there were two markets operating within our stock exchanges. One is what Michael Lewis described as the Flash Boys who have their servers co-located in the server farms inside stock exchanges to get the fastest access to stock quotes so that their algorithms can find the tiniest profit opportunities and execute giant trades within milliseconds based on pre-defined parameters. Then there is the other market comprising retail investors and other institutional traders who don't need to get in and out of stocks as fast and soon as possible.

This is no longer true. Retail investors are quickly getting themselves turbo-charged with off-the-shelf algos that are being offered by a dozen-odd algo-writing platforms that are completely outside the purview of regulation. As many as 40 top brokerage firms are offering algo-based trading to clients and there is no clarity on the number of firms writing such algos.

A source inside the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) told me, SEBI is aware that brokers offer algo trading to retail clients. It's only fair that algo should not be limited to institutions and big players. The current system is for brokers to take approval of exchange for all algos. So far, no need has been felt for separate framework for retail algos.

The algo space should certainly be democratised to allow smart retail traders to use the system; but the view that it does not need to be regulated suggests that SEBI has not applied its mind correctly, or is being wilfully blind.

I also discover that both, the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), are concerned about the lack of regulation, so are conscientious algo-writers; but the regulator has ignored the issue, despite letters and informal discussions with its officials.

Dharmik Thakker, founder of Algomaker, an algorithmic trading firm that writes code and creates trading strategies for retail clients, has been blowing the whistle on the absence of regulation by writing and attempting to engage with the regulator, without success.

How Does Retail Algo Work?

SEBI defines algorithmic trading as any order that is generated using automated execution logic. And API (application programme interface) allows an individual to access brokers trading platform without needing to log in manually. The algo writers, usually, show a back-tested report on trading strategies to sell the idea that you can make a lot of money on rapid intra-day trading.

Some algo makers have been advertising their products and charge about Rs500 a month to subscribe to an algo. They have also tied up with dozens of top brokerage firms to ensure direct integration with their platforms through a bridge. The retail client, thus, has a turbo-charged system to earn a living by day-trading. But nothing is sure-shot in the markets; many incur large losses as is evident from the anger that spills into social media platforms every time a new break or a tech glitch upsets the programmed logic.

Such discretionary algos, that claim to make money and generate returns, are sucking people into trading in the past couple of years. While some say that the algo market for retail investors is still small, with each broker having a few thousand clients, this is actually growing very fast. Dharmik says that, based on NSE data, that the current size of portfolio handled by API-based algo strategies is 20% of the trading volume.

Nithin Kamath founder of Zerodha, says his firm charges fees of Rs2,000 a month for an API access. But Zerodha restricts the use to those who really understand how to use them. However, a person can pay for the API and integrate it himself with one of the algo writing platforms, which is outside our control. Zerodha does not allow direct integration from its platform, he says. There are at least 40 firms that are offering these services.

What Is Wrong with Retail Algos Today?

Democratising access to the market by allowing tech-savvy retail investors to trade algos is a good idea, provided it is properly regulated and retail investors understand the risk. Today, there is not enough information about the size of the market or the kind of scrips in which algos are offered. Worse, they seem to fall foul of the stringent regulations that SEBI has imposed on RIAs (registered investment advisers) and RAs (research analysts) who take far greater responsibility for the advice they offer clients.

Significantly, with over 25 broker defaults at the NSE in the past two years, brokers are allowed to offer advice with no rules or restrictions while also holding the clients Power of Attorney (PoA). This raises serious issues about risk assessment by SEBI and the Exchange. Worse, there is no clarity about where these retail algos are deployed. The anger among retail investors, and their claimed intra-day losses when there are sudden market movements or disruptions, probably indicate what is going on.

Need for a Regulatory Framework

As I said earlier, almost everybody, except SEBI, thinks that retail algos need to be regulated. Mr Kamath thinks algo trading strategies skirt SEBIs strict regulations for RIAs and RAs. This is because an algo is essentially a computerised trading program that assures profits in certain situations. Or, as Nithin Kamath says, it is an algo that is giving advice instead of an individual and that ought to fall under SEBI regulation, with the attendant onerous record-keeping. Remember, SEBI has ruled that robo-advisories, under which automated investment advice would be doled out based on some customer parameters, are not legal.

An obvious comparison is with the rules that apply to large firms using algos through the co-location services of exchanges. These algos have to be approved by the exchanges and have a rather controversial past, as we have documented in our book Absolute Power . In fact, SEBI was caught napping even then. It allowed NSE to start algo trading and offer co-location without official clearance in 2010 and finally issued Broad Guidelines on Algorithmic Trading only on 30 April 2012. In 2015, Moneylife broke the NSE algo scam that led to sweeping changes in NSEs top management.

It is extraordinary that SEBI is behind the curve once again, especially when all algo platforms in the international markets require some kind of regulatory licence. What makes the Indian situation surprising is that SEBI has imposed such stringent compliance and capital requirements for RIAs and RAs which, if applied to tiny algo platforms, would make them unviable. And, yet, we have Dharmik Thakker from the industry itself pleading for a clear regulatory framework.

His reason is clear. Sleeping regulators wake up when there is a big scam or the market collapses. They then turn into a super-cop and initiate drastic action that can drive companies out of business, while absolving themselves of the responsibility for failed regulation and supervision.

I wrote to the SEBI chairman, the chairman of its technical advisory committee (TAC), managing directors of the two national stock exchanges and the largest brokerage firm in the country. All except SEBI chairman responded and everybody agreed that it was a matter of concern. The TAC, however, felt that regulating retail algos would need to be looked at by SEBIs risk advisory committee (RAC) and not the TAC.

Who Should Regulate Retail Algos?

Regulating algos used by retail investors is, indeed, complex. For starters, algo writers, who are offering programmed investment advice, are not registered with SEBI or the stock exchanges. Also, while SEBI could regulate algo writers who are marketing their products openly and offering direct integration through brokers, there could be thousands of individual programmers who can write algos and fly below the regulatory radar. In a highly automated environment, it is not possible for a broker to know whether the trading strategy of a customer is coming from an algo platform or his own tech skill, says Mr Kamath.

The point to understand, says Dharmik Thakker is that there is no difference between API-based algorithms and algorithms deployed in co-location services except the latency. If algos in co-location require approval, this should apply to retail algos too. He says that regulations should clearly define: What are the bare minimum requirements for algo service-providers in order to build trust in the system and avoid trading strategies that are based on pump and dump. He also says that the regulations need to cover algo writers as well as brokers who provide access by requiring them to get their algos approved by stock exchanges. The approval, he says, should cover their software, strategy, scrips and also order to trade ratios.

Mr Thakker believes that API-based algos can run on any scrip, including penny stocks, and to manipulate a stock using algos, all one needs is multiple user accounts on which any algorithmic strategy can be deployed. An exchange official, with a tech background, agrees that, unless checked, this can be used for systematic market manipulation and even tax evasion. Mr Thakker believes that even innocent investors can become pawns of such algos because end-users may be clueless about the exact trading strategies that they end up deploying. He has prepared a case-study by placing an order in stock X with 40 user accounts that subscribed to his service, which shows how bulk orders through the algo could be easily used for market manipulation. The question is: Who will wake up a sleeping regulator?
Weather Alert

...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON MDT /11 AM PDT/ TO 9 PM MDT /8 PM PDT/ MONDAY... * Affected area: Fire Zone 103 (Clearwater/Nez Perce). Fire Zone 106 (West Lolo). Fire Zone 108 (East Lolo). Fire Zone 109 (Bitterroot). * Impacts: Gusty and erratic outflows developing from high based scattered thunderstorms and frequent lightning. * Thunderstorms: Mainly dry, with some rain under the cores. * Outflow Winds: 35-50 mph. &&
Weather Alert

...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 PM MDT TUESDAY... * WHAT...Hazardous heat, with afternoon highs of 95 to low 100s, and overnight lows in the mid-50s to mid-60s. * WHERE...Cascade, Judith Basin, Liberty, Toole, Broadwater and Central and Southern Lewis and Clark Counties. * WHEN...Until 9 PM MDT Tuesday. * IMPACTS...Hot temperatures may cause heat illnesses to occur. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Do not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles. Car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1. &&

...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON TODAY TO 9 PM MDT THIS EVENING FOR DRY THUNDERSTORMS WITH GUSTY AND ERRATIC OUTFLOW WINDS FOR FIRE WEATHER ZONES 114 AND 117... The National Weather Service in Great Falls has issued a Red Flag Warning for dry thunderstorms with gusty and erratic outflow winds, which is in effect from noon today to 9 PM MDT this evening. * AFFECTED AREA...Lewis and Clark National Forest Rocky Mountain District-Rocky Mountain Front and Central and Eastern Lewis and Clark National Forest Areas. * LIGHTNING... * IMPACTS...Gusty and erratic outflows developing from high-based scattered thunderstorms and frequent lightning in some areas. * THUNDERSTORMS...A mix of wet and dry thunderstorms over the Red Flag Warning area. Wetting rain will become more likely with storms Monday evening but the increase in lightning activity following recent heat and dry fuels could lead to new fire starts. * OUTFLOW WINDS...Erratic outflow gusts over 40 mph possible. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior. Please advise the appropriate officials or fire crews in these areas of this Red Flag Warning. &&
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Trying to get your goat: Greater Plymouth Community Center offers a wild form of yoga
July 15, 2021

Steele Dossier Peddlers Confirm Its Substance With New Forgeries

Today the Guardian published another fake 'Russiagate' story:

Kremlin papers appear to show Putins plot to put Trump in White House

Vladimir Putin personally authorised a secret spy agency operation to support a mentally unstable Donald Trump in the 2016 US presidential election during a closed session of Russias national security council, according to what are assessed to be leaked Kremlin documents.

...

Western intelligence agencies are understood to have been aware of the documents for some months and to have carefully examined them. The papers, seen by the Guardian, seem to represent a serious and highly unusual leak from within the Kremlin.

Yaawwwnn ...

We know, without reading it, that the story is fake because its main author is Luke Harding. Harding also authored the story which claimed that Trump's former campaign manager Paul Manaford met Julian Assange in the Ecuadorian embassy in London. That story was proven to be false but the Guardian, to its shame, still has it up on its website.

In 2017 Luke Harding abruptly ended an interview with Aaron Mate after Harding was challenged over false claims he had made in his book about 'Russiagate'. The last five minutes of that video are quite amusing.

The Guardian story claims that the 'leaked' nonsense paper was discussed in high level Kremlin meeting in January 2016. It was then decided, it alleges, to support Trump. But in January 2016 there was no one, not even Donald Trump himself, who thought that he would win the Republican primary or even the presidency. But the Kremlin is supposed to have discussed him at the highest level well before anyone thought he could win?

Various people make interesting remarks about the new Guardian fakery:

Tara McCormack @McCormack_Tara - 12:13 UTC  Jul 15, 2021 I am seriously coming to the conclusion that Luke Harding is a Russian operative who has been put in place as part of a long term dastardly plan to make British journalism appear ridiculous.

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Craig Murray @CraigMurrayOrg - 12:02 UTC  15 Jul 2021 The next Luke Harding MI6 hoax.

Passing off forged Kremlin minutes saying things like It is acutely necessary to use all possible force to facilitate his [Trumps] election to the post of US president."

Hilarious

theguardian.com/world/2021/jul

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Glenn Greenwald @ggreenwald - 12:07 UTC  15 Jul 2021 The part of the media that feigns anger at misinformation is uncritically promoting a story today by Luke Harding that Russia was blackmailing Trump -- the same Harding who has published many false stories, championed the Steele Dossier and claimed Trump was long a Russian agent.

...

Now suddenly, Harding claims he obtained leaked, highly sensitive Kremlin documents that just so happen to prove all the lies he's been peddling for years, that not even Mueller's huge team found. Because it advances liberals' interests, journalists are uncritically spreading it.

...

I will once use this shabby behavior to against highlight 2 points: 1) The contempt and loss of trust people harbor for the corporate media is completely justified and well-earned. 2) These outlets are by far the most prolific and destructive disseminators of disinformation.

Even people who are typically inclined to promote all kinds of anti-Russian nonsense are cautious on this item.

Thomas Rid @RidT - 12:38 UTC  15 Jul 2021 This Guardian story is likely to make big waves. I would remain somewhat cautious for now, however. For a "leak" of this magnitude, we need at least some details on the chain of custody. Also note the Guardian's own hedging ("papers appear to show") theguardian.com/world/2021/jul

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Pwn All The Things @pwnallthethings - 14:40 UTC  15 Jul 2021 Also, just putting this out there, if the US had this and thought it was real, how likely is it that it would have survived the waterfall of leaks of the past few years? And yet, here we are, with this as exclusive by the UK's Guardian, and conspicuously not, say, WaPo or NYT.

Christopher Steele, the 'former' British intelligence officer who peddle the fake dossier about alleged Russian Trump kompromat on behalf of the Hillary Clinton campaign, worked and still works for Orbis Intelligence, a British private outlet run by 'former' British spies.

They are still at it ...

"Great reporting.. " "..important story"

Yeah. Sure. Whatever.

Posted by b on July 15, 2021 at 15:20 UTC | Permalink

Comments
July 15, 2021 U.S. Announces Retreat From Iraq (And Syria)? I did not expect this. Great - if true: Nafiseh Kohnavard @nafisehkBBC - 13:57 UTC  Jul 15, 2021 Breaking White house coordinator for MidEast, Brett McGurk has informed Iraqi officials that US troops will withdraw from Iraq. step by step, sources tell me. First combat troops will leave and then others he has told his Iraqi hosts

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Withdrawal from Iraq will not be like what happened in Afghanistan and it will be step by step. The schedule for this will be agreed during Iraqi PMs trip to Washington official sources told me

...

And here is the statement from PM office that mechanism for combat troops withdrawal has been briefly mentioned in link The link is to a tweet of the Iraqi Prime Minister account which says (in Arabic) of the McGurk - al-Kadhimi meeting: During the meeting, they discussed coordination and joint cooperation in various fields, and preparations for holding the next round of strategic dialogue between Iraq and the United States of America, as well as the mechanisms for the withdrawal of combat forces from Iraq and the transition to a new phase of strategic cooperation. My first thoughts on this: The pressure the resistance has put onto the occupation force has achieved the desired result.

No time frame is given but I expect weeks rather than months for the retreat to take place as the pressure will otherwise increase.

Leaving Iraq likely also means leaving Syria as supplies and support to the U.S. occupied Syrian north-east and to the al-Tanf base at the border triangle of Syria, Iraq and Jordan runs through Iraq.

The Kurds in north-east Syria must immediately start talks with Russia and the Syrian government. They will have to give up their autonomy or they will be eaten alive by Turkey. Expect them to (again) make the wrong decision. That means that the Syrian government, with Russian support, will have to use force against them. So be it.

The U.S. occupation has denied the Syrian government access to two of its greatest resources, oil and grain. Syria will be much better off after regaining these.

Expect a huge attempt by the usual hawks and the media to change the decision.

The U.S. has dragged its feet over the renewal of the nuclear deal with Iran. Removing the troops from Iraq and Syria moves them out of the target area in the case of an eventual war on Iran. While there are now first denials from some anonymous 'officials' I do believe that the decision has been made. It is only rational. A further occupation of Iraq and Syria makes absolutely no sense. Posted by b on July 15, 2021 at 15:54 UTC | Permalink Comments next page  next page 
The Avon Lake Play Space renovation project at Bleser Park is seeking community feedback as the city moves closer to finalizing a design plan.
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Richard Payerchin covers Lorain City Hall, business news and other interesting stories for The Morning Journal. Reach the author at rpayerchin@MorningJournal.com or follow Richard on Twitter: @MJ_JournalRick.
Music

Coming back to life

Pink Floyd tribute act Wish You Were Here playing Rockin on the River July 17

Popular Ohio-based Pink Floyd tribute Wish You Here excited for first show since before pandemic  at Rockin on the River
Moultrie, GA (31768)

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Scattered thunderstorms this morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. High 86F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%..

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Variable clouds with scattered thunderstorms. Low 71F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
Moultrie, GA (31768)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms this morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. High near 85F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Scattered showers and thunderstorms. Low 71F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
Miguel Tovar/AP

MEXICO CITY (AP)  A judge sentenced a Mexican building expert to 208 years in prison Wednesday for signing off on defective remodeling work blamed in the collapse of school that killed 26 people during a 2017 earthquake.

It was the longest sentence yet handed down in relation to the magnitude 7.1 quake of Sept. 19, 2017, though it is largely symbolic, because Mexico does not permit life imprisonment and limits sentences to 60 years.
BEIJING (AP)  Chinas government rejected U.S. accusations of forced labor in Xinjiang and accused Washington on Thursday of hurting global trade after lawmakers endorsed import curbs and American companies were warned they face legal risks if they do business with the region.

The measures add to rising pressure on companies that buy clothing, cotton, tomatoes and other goods from Xinjiang, where the ruling Communist Party is accused of holding more than 1 million members of mostly Muslim ethnic groups in detention camps. Washington has blocked some imports, while Beijing has whipped up Chinese consumer anger at brands that express concern about possible forced labor.

The so-called human rights and forced labor issues in Xinjiang are completely inconsistent with the facts, said a Ministry of Commerce spokesman, Gao Feng.

The U.S. approach has seriously undermined the security and stability of the global industrial chain and supply chain, he said. China firmly opposes it.

Gao gave no indication of possible Chinese retaliation.

The latest measure approved Wednesday by the U.S. Senate would block imports of goods made with forced labor in Xinjiang. The bill requires approval from the House of Representatives.

On Tuesday, the Commerce Department and five other agencies warned companies with ties to the region they run a high risk of violating U.S. laws against forced labor.

In unusually forceful language, they said Beijing carries out genocide and crimes against humanity in Xinjiang including imprisonment, torture, rape, forced sterilization, forced labor and draconian restrictions on movement and religion.

Chinese officials deny accusations of abuses in Xinjiang. They say the camps are for job training and combating radicalism.

Washington and the European Union have imposed travel and financial sanctions on Chinese officials accused of abuses in Xinjiang. The United States has blocked imports of cotton, tomatoes and materials to make solar panels from companies suspected of using forced labor.

Beijing retaliated by announcing unspecified penalties against American and European officials, a European think tank and two European researchers who study Xinjiang.

State TV called for a boycott of Swedish retailer H&M after it joined other brands in expressing concern about reports of forced labor in Xinjiang. State media have publicized calls by individual Chinese for boycotts of Nike, Adidas, Uniqlo and other global shoe and clothing brands.

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U.S. business advisory: www.state.gov/xinjiang-supply-chain-business-advisory/
For five people arrested this week after they were charged by federal prosecutors for allegedly storming the U.S. Capitol, the Jan. 6 insurrection appeared to be a family affair.

The Munn family traveled from Borger, Texas, about 45 miles northeast of Amarillo, to Washington for the deadly riot, federal investigators said in a criminal complaint filed Monday.

RELATED: These Texas reps voted against honoring police who responded to Capitol riot

Dawn and Thomas Munn, as well as their children Kristi, Kayli and Joshua Munn, were charged with disorderly conduct and illegally entering and parading in the Capitol. Another child, an unnamed minor, also entered the Capitol, investigators said, but was not charged.

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported that Dawn and Thomas Munn are in their 50s and at least two of the children are in their 20s.

Investigators used photos from Facebook and Snapchat, as well as security footage from the Capitol, to identify the family members' alleged movements on Jan. 6. A relative of Kristi Munn's fiance had seen Kristi's posts on Facebook and Snapchat and provided screenshots to the FBI, investigators said.

The Munn family's alleged participation in the riot is part of a dynamic that has played out since Jan. 6, with many people reporting friends and family members they suspect participated in the insurrection to the FBI. A college freshman in Texas also reported his father for threatening to do "something big" before he stormed the Capitol.

According to authorities, Kristi Munn posted a photo on Facebook, before the Capitol was breached, that showed the family dressed in camouflage. It was captioned: "Washington D.C. here we come!!!" The family stayed in a hotel near Washington after driving 1,600 miles in 24 hours, Thomas Munn wrote in a Facebook post cited in the complaint.

Kristi, Thomas, Dawn, Joshua and Kayli Munn entered the Capitol by crawling through a window at around 2:25 p.m. on Jan. 6, according to investigators.

A few minutes after entering, all six family members were seen allegedly moving from the crypt toward the visitor center, with Kristi Munn cloaked in a Trump flag.

Teachers from a high school and a college in Borger who had taught some of the Munn family members also reviewed photos of the family and confirmed their identities.

RELATED: Showtime is turning the Capitol riot into a TV series nobody wanted

It was not immediately clear if the family had legal representation. In a phone interview with an FBI agent, Kristi Munn admitted to traveling to Washington to see then-President Donald Trump speak, but denied going inside the Capitol or committing any crimes there.

But in messages on Facebook obtained by investigators through search warrants, Kristi wrote to someone named Jarod on Jan. 7, "We were in the capital!!" She asked him to "keep that bit of info on the [down low] for right now."

According to the complaint, she posted a status update the same day: "Tear gas tastes like freedom #StopTheSteal #TrumpIsMyPresident." Someone commented asking if she knew that from experience. "I do now," she replied.

In another message, Kristi wrote she had taken so many videos of the riot that her phone ran out of storage. Instead, she used a minor child's phone to record more. Investigators said it did not appear that this child traveled to Washington with the family.

Dawn, Thomas, Kristi and Kayli Munn were arrested on Tuesday in Borger, court records show. Joshua Munn was arrested in Melrose, Wis., about 100 miles northwest of Madison. Joshua, who has a legal hearing next week, was subsequently released from custody.

More than 500 people have been arrested in participating in the riot, Attorney General Merrick Garland announced last month.
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Muskogee, OK (74401)

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Sunny to partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 86F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph..

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(The Center Square)  Missouri is home to a number of cybersecurity companies, including Global Velocity, Bandura and Norse Corp., and state lawmakers created an award-winning Office of Cyber Security managed by the states Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) nearly a decade ago.

Now that effort to thwart cyberattacks, data breaches and ransomware extortion against public institutions and corporations in Missouri will get more focused direction with the establishment of a nine-member Missouri Cybersecurity Commission.

The commission, which will operate under the Department of Public Safety (DPS), was created with the adoption of Senate Bill 49, which was signed into law Wednesday by Gov. Mike Parson.

The commission will evaluate risks to state technological infrastructure and issue an annual cybersecurity report to the governor and lawmakers to continuously update Missouris cybersecurity plan.

The commissions nine members will all be appointed by the governor  no more than five from one party  and must include one person each from the Missouri National Guard, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and Highway Patrol.

The original 2021 bill to form a commission, House Bill 1204, was sponsored by Rep. Bill Hardwick, R-Waynesville, and passed through the House 144-0 before stalled on second reading in the Senate.

HB 1204 was amended into SB 49, which prohibits boats from anchoring in a way that obstructs access within 100 feet of a dock, and was passed 32-1 in the Senate and 145-1 in the House.

During a March hearing on HB 1204 before the House Homeland Security Committee, Hardwick cited his years of working with technology as a Missouri National Guardsman as his impetus in filing the bill.

The states Office of Cybersecurity does a fantastic job of making sure that our networks are secure and that we have good protocols in place to protect them, he said. This bill would be a really positive advancement to identify the risks that we have from state actors, non-state actors around the world, and attacks that could potentially come in the future. Its a good step forward and a good dialogue we could have about the best way we can identify information to the governor in case of an emergency.

Maryland-based SecuLore Solutions Missouri Cyber Attacks page documents more than 50 instances of cyberattacks, data breaches, malware infiltration and ransomware crimes across the state since 2019.

SecuLore breaks down infrastructure affected in cyberattacks or ransomware crimes into Public Safety, Government, Medical and Education categories.

Under public safety, the page documents a dozen hacking and malware events detected on police and county sheriffs websites in Missouri, including St. Louis County Police Headquarters, the Marion County Jail, Springfield Police Department, Kansas City Police Department and at least six county sheriffs offices.

The government lists at least 12 cyberattacks on four cities  including ransomware crimes against the cities of Independence, Ashland and Washington  and six counties, including a ransomware assault against the Saline County Courthouse. State websites were targeted by phishing, according to SecuLore.

In the medical section, 14 data breaches and cyberattacks against health care providers and hospitals are cited, including ransomware crimes against Betty Jean Kerr People's Health Center in St. Louis, the Truman Medical Center and Blue Springs Family Care in Jackson County, and Cass Regional Medical Center in Cass County.

Under education, SecuLore lists seven cyberattacks against seven public school districts and six colleges, including the University of Missouri, Washington Universitys School of Medicine and Metropolitan Community College of Kansas City.
BANGKOK (AP)  Bangkok parkgoers looking for relief from renewed coronavirus restrictions got a slithering surprise Thursday when a python as long as two of the Thai capitals ubiquitous motorbikes was spotted in one of the city's most popular green spaces.

The reticulated python was only the latest big serpent to turn up in the dense center of Bangkok, where urban sprawl eating into natural habitats has been blamed for a rise in snake sightings in recent years.

This one was found in Benjasiri Park, which is flanked by towering hotels, apartment buildings and several high-end shopping malls now largely off limits due to restrictions put in place this week to stem a surge in virus cases. The curbs have shuttered non-essential businesses and limited restaurants to takeout only, leaving parks among the few public places still open.

As parents pushed strollers and joggers rounded a nearby running path, firefighters called in to corral the snake started by trying to capture it with a ladder from the ground up.

The python plotted its escape by heading out on a limb, bound for a building on the edge of the park that houses the World Fellowship of Buddhists.

Other firefighters were waiting for it on the roof of the building. While one used a stick to grab the python by the neck, another man tried to cut the branch it was on. They soon coaxed it into a sack, tied up the bag, and carried it away.

Firefighter Somchai Yoosabai said the snake measured 3.5 meters (11.5 feet) long and weighed about 35 kilograms (77 pounds).

Bangkok firefighters typically get thousands of snake-removal calls each year. Yoosabai said his department alone has caught a snake or two a day during the current rainy season, mostly in neighborhoods or houses with pets.

As coronavirus cases rise, so do the risks.

If any houses ... have COVID-19 cases, we have to go to catch the snakes anyway," he said. Plus, wherever we go to catch a snake, the crowd is always there. We cannot avoid that.

Thailand reported 9,186 new virus cases, including a record high 98 deaths, on Thursday.

Reticulated pythons are found throughout Southeast Asia, and are some of the largest snakes in the world. They hunt by coiling their body around their prey, typically small mammals and birds, thought they have been known to occasionally attack humans.

___

Associated Press writer Chalida Ekvittayavechnukul contributed to this report.
BEIJING (AP)  Chinas economic growth slowed to a still-strong 7.9% over a year earlier in the three months ending in June as a rebound from the coronavirus leveled off.

As expected, the growth reported Thursday fell from the previous quarters explosive 18.3%, which was magnified by comparison with early 2020, when the worlds second-largest economy closed factories, stores and offices to fight the coronavirus. China led a global recovery after the ruling Communist Party declared the disease under control last March and reopened most industries.

The United States and other major economies are bouncing back, but some are hampered by the spread of new virus variants. The rapid U.S. recovery has led the Federal Reserve to suggest it might start unwinding its stimulus earlier than planned, late next year instead of in 2023.

China's growth in the April-June quarter over the previous three months, the way other major economies report results, was 1.3%, reflecting a return to normal for factory activity and consumer spending as government stimulus and easy credit wind down. That was up from the January-March periods 0.6% expansion over the final three months of 2020 but still was among the past decade's weakest quarters.

Overall, Chinas economy looks to be on track for recovery, said Chaoping Zhu of JP Morgan Asset Management in a report. The latest data, Zhu said, suggest the economy has already peaked and is easing back to its long-term average growth rate.

Chinas outlook is clouded by a lingering trade war with Washington over Beijing's industrial development tactics. President Joe Biden has said he wants better ties with Beijing but has yet to say whether he will roll back tariff hikes imposed by his predecessor, Donald Trump.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen called this week for a unified front with Europe against China's unfair economic practices." Biden has expanded the list of Chinese companies Americans are barred from investing in due to possible military connections.

Still, Chinese manufacturing, auto sales and consumer spending have recovered to above pre-pandemic levels.

Exporters benefited from their relatively early return to work while foreign competitors were hampered by anti-disease controls. Exports surged 32.2% in June over a year earlier, though a government spokesman warned growth might weaken due to uncertain global conditions.

The International Monetary Fund and private sector forecasters expect economic growth this year of about 8% but say that should decline in 2022. The government is in the midst of a marathon effort to steer China to slower, more sustainable growth based on domestic consumption instead of exports and investment.

With output already above its pre-virus trend, the economy is struggling to gain ground at its usual pace, Julian Evans-Pritchard of Capital Economics said in a report. Headwinds to growth are likely to intensify during the second half of the year.

China's economy shrank by 6.8% in last year's first quarter, the worst performance since at least the mid-1960s. Activity started to recover in the second quarter, when the economy expanded by 3.2% over a year earlier. That accelerated to 4.9% in the third quarter and 6.5% in the final three months of the year. For the full year, growth was 2.3%, while the U.S., European and Japanese economies contracted.

In an apparent effort to reassure the public and financial markets, the government took the unusual step Thursday of reporting average growth in the second quarter and the same period of 2020 was 5.5%, up from 5.0% for the first quarters of the two years.

World markets took the update in stride. Benchmarks rose in Hong Kong and Shanghai, while U.S. futures were marginally lower.

Beijing is in the midst of dual campaigns to step up oversight of a fledgling industry of online finance competitors such as tycoon Jack Mas Ant Group and to reduce risks to the financial system by forcing the real estate industry to cut its debt levels.

Both will put downward pressure on growth in the short term, Iris Pang of ING said in a report.

Retail spending has revived more slowly than manufacturing, prompting concern that might weigh on the recovery. That led Beijing to inject extra money last week into the pool available for lending to shore up business and consumer activity. But the central bank and economic planners say they are sticking to plans that call for a return to normal policy.

Retail sales in June rose 12.1%. That was down from 13.9% for the full quarter and well below the 33.9% surge in the January-March period.

Domestic demand remained muted, Louis Kuijs of Oxford Economics said in a report.

Factory output rose 8.3% in June over a year ago and was up 0.6% from the previous month.

Manufacturers face hurdles including shortages of processing chips.

Auto production fell 13.7% in June from a year earlier and sales fell 11.1% to 1.6 million, according to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers. It blamed "insufficient supply of chips.

Investment in factories, real estate and other fixed assets rose 12.6% in the first half but was up only 0.4% in June over the previous month.

___

National Bureau of Statistics of China (in Chinese): www.stats.gov.cn
There is no questioning Stewart Manns Texas roots.

Theyre sunk deep in the ranch he owns on Texas soil and the music he plays as founder and frontman for The Statesboro Revue, a country-blues-maybe Americana band thats well-known on the Texas music scene.

On a recent day, he had two topics at the forefront of his mind  the bands return to touring, which will bring him to Jacksonville on Friday for a performance as part of the Jacksonville Main Street Downtown Concert Series; and the wild hogs overrunning Texas and tearing up his ranch.

Hogs have infiltrated everywhere in Texas, Mann said by phone as he headed to that ranch  really a ranchito, just 30 acres but still a lot of land  to do some work. Wild pigs, they get into everything. If youre not keeping up with things, theyll get into everything. They kind of want to take over the land. Theyll literally tear down the fence to get to what they want to get to.

Pigs may not fly, but 

Ive always heard that hogs cant jump, Mann said. But Ill tell you, hogs can jump. Ive seen it on one of my hunting cams.

Wild hogs are frustrating because they damage Manns ranch land, on which he grows a bunch of crops, and steal food from the deer in the area, he said.

Theyre definitely a nuisance, Mann said. At the same time, I see a picture of a little baby, a baby piglet, and think how cute is that? But, in a few months, theyll be tearing up my land.

Mann might not be home to see the damage done. For the first time in more than a year, the band is on tour.

Were looking forward to it, he said of the Jacksonville stop. Its been a while since weve been up that way.

The band has played in Springfield in the past, he said, though he wasnt quite sure when because the pandemic has made time somewhat nebulous.

Anytime I think about how long its been since weve been anywhere I have to knock a year off the top, he said, noting that 2020 stopped for him and his band the way it did for much of the world.

Last year was pretty rough, he said. We did nothing but virtual shows from my couch, a lot of Facetime, a lot of Zoom calls. The last month and a half, weve pretty much been playing every weekend. We havent had that in over a year.

When he saw many of his fellow musicians hurting amid a complete stoppage of live performances, he set about trying to help.

I felt terrible for all of my friends who play music and couldnt make a living anymore, he said. I thought, What could I do to give them some financial support?

He came up with the idea of Rock Star Lawn Care, a business based on musicians he knew around the country going out and mowing lawns. There was one problem the rancher in him hadnt considered.

My musician budddies dont all necessarily like manual labor, he said. Obviously, it was an idea, but it didnt work out that well.

Manns next idea worked much better. The Statesboro Revue, with Texas musician Wade Bowen, released the single Sinner, Saint, S.O.B.  its first new release in about five years  to benefit I Heart Texas Arts, an initiative Mann started to help Texas artists in need.

The support was amazing, Mann said.  It was very touching to see how many people cared about musicians being out of work.

Proceeds helped a full-time musician who also is a single father pay his rent, helped another musician pay utility bills, and yet others buy groceries, Mann said.

It was nice to be able to feel like, despite everything going on, we were able to help other musicians get through. So many musicians live day to day, week to week. Most every musician Ive ever met in my life, dont know any of them who have savings accounts  Its such a tough business  Thank God Ive been playing a long time and have other ways to make money, have saved up some money.

Even from that fortunate vantage point, it wasnt an easy year, Mann said.

It was pretty stressful, especially having a family and knowing youre supposed to provide for your family, he said. We had shows that would get canceled and rescheduled and canceled again and rescheduled  The scariest part was nobody knowing anything.

Even his other business, a corporate events company that specializes in charitable team building events, was hard hit.

Nobody was having conferences, nobody was having team events, he said. I started that business because I got married and had kids and thought, This is a more stable way of making money than music. I never would have thought that the common denominator was people.

So, yes, hes looking forward to getting back on stage, in front of people.

I think what I missed most was interacting with people, on the stage, from the stage, he said. You play a song and watch a person react to a song. I really missed that, the interaction of that. I never quite got used to it  you cant really substitute face-to-face. Playing songs from my living room to their living room, you cant have a singalong virtually on a Zoom call.

Still, if there was one benefit to the past year, it was that Mann had time to focus on songwriting, he said.

Inspiration is always there to be found by a songwriter, he said. I feel like the songs we released  three over the last year  feel like theyre up there with any songs Ive ever put out. I dont know if thats because Ive had more time on my hands or just a coincidence.

He also thinks the new music and the band as a whole  Mann; his brother, Garrett, on lead guitar; a bass player and a drummer  have stayed true to their roots, which musically extend well beyond Texas.

I listen to everything, Mann said.  Stylistically, were kind of all over the place. The songs I write, I write from a very organic place, influenced by whatever Im listening to. There are songs I consider old-school country, some Southern rock.

The Allman Brothers are Manns favorite band  The Statesboro Revue name honors the Allman Brothers song Statesboro Blues, he said.

Weve never tried to write songs for radio, though wed had quite a bit of success on regional radio charts and on national Americana charts, he said.  Were real fortunate to have a fan base support every type of song we write.

And as pandemic restrictions loosen enough to allow a tour, Mann is ready to support the fans.

We pride ourselves on our live show, he said. Its very energetic. I feel like every time I step on a stage its my job to help people  as long as were up on that stage  to not think about the stresses of their life.  Its just a good time, they can expect a good time.

The Statesboro Revue will be in concert from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday on the downtown Jacksonville square as part of the Jacksonville Main Street Downtown Concert Series. Admission is free. Refreshments will be available starting at 6 p.m. The after-party will be at KJBs. In case of rain, the concert will be moved to the former McClelland Dining Hall on the former MacMurray College campus.
JERUSALEM (AP)  Israel says it arrested dozens of Palestinian students in the occupied West Bank who are linked to the Hamas militant group.

The military said late Wednesday that those arrested belong to a Hamas student group at Birzeit University and were directly involved in terror activities, including money transfers, incitement and the organization of Hamas activities. The statement provided no evidence to back up the claims.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed into legislation several bills to reform the states justice system regarding victims of wrongful conviction.

Pritzker signed the following into law:

 Senate Bill 2122: prohibits the use of deceptive tactics by all law enforcement when interrogating a minor.

 Senate Bill 64: encourages the use of restorative justice practices by providing that participation in such practices and anything said or done during the practice is privileged and may not be used in any future proceeding unless the privilege is waived by the informed consent of the party or parties covered by the privilege.

 Senate Bill 2129: allows the States Attorney of a county in which a defendant was sentenced to petition for resentencing of the offender if the original sentence no longer advances the interests of justice.

 House Bill 3587: creates the Resentencing Task Force Act to study ways to reduce Illinois prison population via resentencing motions.

An essential tenet of good governance is recognizing the need to change the laws that have failed the people they serve. My administration has infused that value into everything we do, Pritzker said.
After a year of lockdowns and letdowns, many Americans wanted to do Independence Day up right. They were ready to party, to let their patriotic party flags fly.

Only, according to The New York Times, flying the American flag is now problematic.

An article headlined A Fourth of July Symbol of Unity That May No Longer Unite suggested waving the national symbol is actually a political partisan act. Today, flying the American flag from the back of a pickup truck or over a lawn is increasingly seen as a clue, albeit an imperfect one, to a persons political affiliation in a deeply divided nation, the Times wrote.

To paraphrase Woody Guthrie, this flag was made for you  not me.

That was certainly the message of progressive Democrat Rep. Cori Bush of Missouri: When they say that the 4th of July is about American freedom, remember this: the freedom theyre referring to is for White people, Bush tweeted. This land is stolen land and Black people still arent free.

Not surprisingly, the tweet sparked a backlash in conservative media. But it also sent many progressives to the Twitter barricades to re-tweet her message and defend her views.

The same day the Times was declaring the U.S. flag politically suspect, their fellow travelers at NPR were adding a trigger warning for the first time ever to their annual reading of the Declaration of Independence.

Over the past 32 years, Morning Edition has broadcast a reading of the Declaration of Independence by NPR staff as a way of marking Independence Day, the host announced. But after last summers protests and our national reckoning on race, the words in the document land differently.

It famously declares that all men are created equal even though women, enslaved people, and Indigenous Americans were not held as equal at the time, the host added before listing more grievances against the founders.

And The Washington Post took the opportunity of the Fourth to argue its time to reconsider another iconic American symbol. Maybe Its Time To Admit That the Statue of Liberty Has Never Quite Measured Up, they wrote.

Democrats can dismiss claims that their party is anti-American  or at the least unpatriotic  and these examples as mere anecdotes. The problem is that these ugly claims about the grand old flag and the home of the free and the brave are now at the center of Democratic Party politics.

And as a result, theyre likely to be a drag on even the most patriotic Democratic candidates in their wake.

The fundamental premise of the critical race theory, for example, is that America is a racist nation, infected with systemic racism and full of racist (read white) people who are pillars of the countrys white supremacy. The Democrats economic policies are also premised on the notion that America is an unfair place where the rich steal from the poor. Democrats like Sen. Elizabeth Warren have called for widespread wealth confiscation in the pursuit of economic justice.

In fact, Democrats went so far as to pass a COVID-19 relief bill that gives some forms of relief only to people of color, denying funding to white farmers and business owners in need. (Courts have since struck down those racist policies.)

It may come as a shock to Democrats in swing states like Arizona and New Hampshire, but when your party keeps bashing America as a racist hellhole and its flag a symbol of hate and oppression, voters are eventually going to notice. Theyll be tempted to conclude that being part of the Democratic Party thats pushed this anti-patriotism says something about the politicians who are members, and cast their votes in 2022 accordingly.

In the past, Republicans tried to label Democrats as unpatriotic, using issues like the War on Terror as political wedges. Not this time.

Saying Democrats dont like America isnt an accusation. Its quoting them accurately. Its not a smear from some right-wing talk host. Its the front page of The New York Times.

Michael Graham is managing editor of InsideSources.
Court orders shorter sentence for Tiger King Joe Exotic View Photo

DENVER (AP)  A federal appeals court ruled Wednesday that Tiger King Joe Exotic should get a shorter prison sentence for his role in a murder-for-hire plot and violating federal wildlife laws.

Joe Exotic, whose real name is Joseph Maldonado-Passage, was sentenced in January 2020 to 22 years in federal prison after being convicted of trying to hire two different men to kill animal rights activist Carole Baskin. A three-judge panel for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit in Denver found that the trial court wrongly treated those two convictions separately in calculating his prison term under sentencing guidelines.

The blond mullet-wearing zookeeper, known for his expletive-laden rants on YouTube and a failed 2018 Oklahoma gubernatorial campaign, was prominently featured in the popular Netflix documentary Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness.

The panel agreed with Maldonado-Passage that the court should have treated them as one conviction at sentencing because they both involved the same goal of killing Baskin, who runs a rescue sanctuary for big cats in Florida. According to the ruling, the court should have calculated his advisory sentencing range to be between 17 1/2 years and just under 22 years in prison, rather than between just under 22 years and 27 years in prison. The court ordered the trial court to re-sentence Maldonado-Passage.

Its possible that Maldonado-Passage could receive an even lower sentence than the range cited in the ruling because the court has to consider other factors too, his appeals attorney, Brandon Sample, said.

Meanwhile, another attorney representing Maldonado-Passage, John M. Phillips, hinted at the possibility of seeking a new trial, saying in a statement he would be filing motions citing previously undisclosed and newly discovered evidence in the case as well as examples of government misconduct.

People should know what they saw on television isnt the full truth. It isnt even the tip of the iceberg. It was snowflakes on the tip of the iceberg, largely manufactured by those who wanted to see Joe Exotic in jail for their own benefit, he said.

Maldonado-Passage, who has maintained his innocence, was also sentenced for killing five tigers, selling tiger cubs and falsifying wildlife records.

His supporters were disappointed that former President Donald Trump failed to issue him a pardon before leaving office. They were so confident in his chances that they had readied a celebratory limousine and a hair and wardrobe team to whisk him away from prison.

In his pardon application, Maldonado-Passages attorneys argued that he was railroaded and betrayed by others and said he will likely die in prison because of health concerns. He is serving his sentence at a medical prison in Fort Worth, Texas.

____

This story has been corrected to say that the appeals court said the trial court should have calculated an advisory sentencing range of between 17 1/2 years and just under 22 years in prison, not that Maldonado-Passage should have been sentenced within that range.

By COLLEEN SLEVIN

Associated Press
EU court: Polands disciplining of judges breaches EU law View Photo

BRUSSELS (AP)  The European Union intensified a legal fight with Poland and Hungary on Thursday over respect for fundamental human rights and the rule of law, which critics say are increasingly strained in the EUs two leading eastern nations.

The EUs top court, the European Court of Justice, ruled Thursday that Polands way of disciplining high judges contravenes EU law and undermines judicial independence, and told the countrys right-wing government to change it. The European Commission also started legal action against Poland and Hungary for what the EUs executive arm sees as blatant disrespect for the rights of LGBT people.

The court ruling was the latest development in a six-year dispute stemming from the Polish government asserting more control over the judicial system. The Luxembourg-based European Court of Justice issued it the day after Polands Constitutional Court ruled that temporary injunctions issued by the EU court regarding the national judiciary were non-binding.

In a statement, however, the Court of Justice said that the disciplinary regime for judges in Poland is not compatible with EU law, since it opens up the independent judicial branch to political interference.

The government in Warsaw has increasingly denounced EU actions against its decisions on the judiciary as politically motivated and has pushed for years to shake off the guidance and supervisory role of the EU justice system.

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki dismissed Thursdays ruling as a typical dispute of the doctrine and insisted that the EU court has no authority on the shaping of the justice systems in individual member nations.

The head of Polands parliamentary commission for justice, Marek Ast, agreed, saying that the organization of the justice system is the sole competence of EU member states. Secondly, the standards that ECJ is drawing from the EU treaties are not in line with Polands Constitution.

It brought into sharp view the dispute over national law versus EU law, and which trumps which.

For the EU Commission there is no doubt: The EU law has primacy over national law and all decisions by the European Court of Justice, including orders for interim measures, are binding on member states authorities and national courts, chief spokesperson Eric Mamer said.

The EUs belief in its primacy is based on the principle that when countries join the bloc, they take on all of its rules and responsibilities if they also want to reap the rewards. Poland and Hungary both joined in 2004 and drove their economic emergence from communist rule partly on EU subsidies and aid.

Under right-wing, nationalist governments in recent years, the two EU members have increasingly veered away from the Brussels orthodoxy.

And EU headquarters has applied pressure to safeguard the 27-nation blocs democratic cornerstones. The European Commission said it opened the legal action against Poland because Warsaw had provided insufficient information on regions and cities promoting themselves as LGBT ideology-free zones.

The commission launched the action against Hungary over a law that it considers discriminatory against lesbians, gay men, and bisexual and transgender people. The law, which took effect a week ago, outlaws disseminating LGBT-related content in schools or promoting it to children.

New budget rules allow the EU to stem the flow of subsidies to member states that do not respect the blocs basic rule of law principles. Hungary and Poland could become the first test cases.

The European Court of Justice ruling came after the EU Commission complained to the court that Poland was digressing from rule of law cornerstones underpinning the EU treaty. In the case concerned, the commission believes that the independence and impartiality of a court chamber the government established to discipline judges and prosecutors cannot be guaranteed, and that the chambers actions could potentially affect the application of justice.

Polands ruling Law and Justice party claims the 2017 establishment of the Disciplinary Chamber was part of its efforts to reform an inefficient judicial system riven with corruption. Critics see that as a pretext for seizing control of the countrys courts.

Many judges and lawyers allege the chamber is being used to pressure judges to issue rulings that favor the ruling authorities. To date, while the ruling party has sought to exert control over the high courts and key judicial bodies, many lower court judges continue to assert their independence. Some have issued rulings against government officials or interests.

The chamber is composed of judges selected by the National Council of the Judiciary, a body whose own members are chosen by parliament, where Law and Justice holds a majority.

In upholding all the complaints made by the commission, the EU court issued a litany of perceived flaws in the Polish system, including that it leaves judges vulnerable to political control and pressure that influences decisions.

It said the Disciplinary Chamber does not provide all the guarantees of impartiality and independence and, in particular, is not protected from the direct or indirect influence of the Polish legislature and executive.

The court called on the Polish authorities to take the measures necessary to rectify the situation.

___

Monika Scislowska contributed from Warsaw

By RAF CASERT

Associated Press
Biden bids Merkel farewell: Friends  with disagreements View Photo

WASHINGTON (AP)  Welcoming Angela Merkel to the White House for a final time, President Joe Biden renewed his concerns to the German chancellor Thursday about a major, nearly complete Russia-to-Germany gas pipeline but said they agreed Russia must not be allowed to use energy as a weapon.

The two discussed  though made no apparent headway  on differences over the Nord Stream 2 pipeline during a largely friendly farewell visit for Merkel as she nears the end of a political career that has spanned four American presidencies.

On a personal note, I must tell you I will miss seeing you at our summits, Biden said as he stood by Merkel, the second-longest serving chancellor in Germanys history, at a late afternoon White House press conference. I truly will.

Merkel, who had a famously difficult relationship with former President Donald Trump, showed her ease and familiarity with Biden, who has long been a fixture in international politics, repeatedly referring to him as Dear Joe.

Asked to compare her relationship with Biden to hers with Trump, Merkel remained diplomatic, saying only that it was in any German chancellors interest to work with every American president. She added with a smile, Today was a very friendly exchange.

But their personal warmth notwithstanding, the U.S.-German relationship is entering new territory as Merkel, who is not seeking another term in September elections, nears her departure from office. There are concerns on both sides about how the two nations will negotiate growing disagreements.

The United States has long argued that the Nord Stream 2 project will threaten European energy security by increasing the continents reliance on Russian gas and allowing Russia to exert political pressure on vulnerable Eastern and Central European nations, particularly Ukraine. But Biden recently waived sanctions against German entities involved in the project, a move that angered many in Congress.

Sen. Marco Rubio, a Florida Republican, in a letter to Biden on Thursday ahead of the leaders meeting raised concerns that the pipeline is already having an economic impact on U.S. ally Ukraine. Rubio said Gazprom, the company that operates Nord Stream 2, has already started to reduce its use of pipelines in Ukraine as the new gas pipeline nears completion.

Merkel sought to downplay the differences, and to stress that the pipeline was in addition to  not meant to displace  Ukrainian pipelines.

Our idea is and remains that Ukraine remains a transit country for natural gas, that Ukraine just as any other country in the world has a right to territorial sovereignty, Merkel said. She added that Germany stood ready to react to Moscow should Russia not respect this right of Ukraine that it has as a transit country.

Merkel also raised concerns about COVID-19 travel restrictions that prevent most Europeans from traveling to the U.S.

Biden said he had brought in the head of his coronavirus task force to discuss the issue and that he expected to be able to offer a more definitive answer within the next seven days about when the restrictions might be eased.

Merkel started her day with a working breakfast with Vice President Kamala Harris, and Harris office said the two had a very candid discussion.

Back home in Germany, Merkels country and neighboring Belgium dealt with the aftermath of heavy flooding that left more than 60 people dead and dozens missing.

My sympathy goes to the relatives and of the dead and missing, she said.

Officials in Washington and elsewhere are wondering what course Germany might take after the September vote.

Merkels Christian Democratic Union is leading in polls, but the environmentalist Greens and the center-left Social Democrats are also vying to lead a future government. While the three parties differ in many policy areas, all are committed to a strong trans-Atlantic relationship.

Germany has strong trade ties with China but has also been critical of Beijings human rights record. Merkel is keen to avoid a situation in which Germany, or the European Union, might be forced to choose sides between China and the United States.

Merkel has insisted on the need to cooperate with China on global issues such as climate change and the coronavirus pandemic, even while then-President Trump was accusing Beijing of having started it the pandemic.

Still, Merkel stressed in her comments to reporters that she wants Germany and the European Union to coordinate their policy toward China with Washington, including on issues such as labor rights, trade and cybersecurity.

I believe that the foundations of our dealings with China should be based on the common values of the U.S. and Germany, she said.

The humanitarian group Doctors Without Borders urged Biden to lean on Merkel to drop her opposition to proposals for suspending vaccine patents. Merkel, a trained scientist, has argued that lifting the patents wouldnt be effective and could harm future research and development efforts.

A group of Democratic lawmakers called on Germany to drop its blockade of a COVID-19-related waiver of intellectual property rights under global trade rules. Such a waiver, the lawmakers argued, would help scale production of effective vaccines around the world.

The Biden administration has expressed support for the waiver being discussed at the World Trade Organization, but White House officials did not anticipate differences being resolved during Merkels visit.

While there are points of tension, Biden seemed eager to offer Merkel a proper farewell.

He hosted Merkel and her husband, as well as an array of lawmakers and administration officials, current and past, at the White House for a dinner Thursday evening. The guest list included Secretary of State Antony Blinken, as well as two of his predecessors  Hillary Clinton and Colin Powell.

The Republican Senate and House leaders, Mitch McConnell and Kevin McCarthy, were also in attendance along with other top U.S. and German officials. The menu featured crispy sea bass and black pepper tagliatelle.

Earlier Thursday, Harris hosted Merkel for breakfast at her residence on the grounds of the U.S. Naval Observatory, commending her for her extraordinary career. Merkel in turn noted the historic nature of the Harris vice presidency.

I can only say that Im delighted, too, for this opportunity here to meet the first madam vice president of the United States of America, Merkel said before the two leaders stepped into a residence to talk over a breakfast of Gruyere souffle, seasonal fruit and charcuterie.

Also Thursday, Merkel received an honorary doctorate, her 18th, from Johns Hopkins University and spoke at the universitys School of Advanced International Studies.

___

Jordans reported from Berlin and Madhani from Chicago.

By AAMER MADHANI, ALEXANDRA JAFFE and FRANK JORDANS

Associated Press
On Lithuanias plea, Iraq to probe human smuggling to Europe View Photo

BAGHDAD (AP)  Iraqs foreign minister said Thursday his government would investigate trafficking networks responsible for smuggling hundreds of Iraqis into Europe, specifically via Belarus to Lithuania.

Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein made the promise after a meeting in Baghdad with his visiting Lithuanian counterpart, Gabrielius Landsbergis. Lithuania, which recently declared a state of emergency due to the rising influx of migrants, had appealed on Iraq to act in the matter.

Hussein said Iraq will form a committee with representatives from the Foreign Ministry, Migration Ministry, as well as intelligence and the Civil Aviation Authority to clamp down on the smuggling networks. He spoke to reporters in a joint press conference with Landsbergis.

Landsbergis said there was a mutual need to disrupt the network from Iraq into Europe that was being perpetrated by malign actors using criminal elements. He blamed neighboring Belarus for encouraging migration into Lithuania.

In the past two months, more than 1,500 people have crossed into Lithuania  20 times more than in the whole of 2020. In response, Vilnius declared a state of emergency and accused Belarus of organizing border crossings by people, mainly from Iraq.

An unfriendly country to us, our neighbor, is using migrants, mostly Iraqi people, to pressure my country, to pressure the European Union in order for us to change our policy, Landsbergis said.

We feel Iraqi people are becoming a victim of the Belarusian regime, he said. Landsbergis added that he had recounted to Hussein some of the testimony collected by Lithuanian authorities from 800 Iraqi migrants about how they were trafficked into Lithuania.

Iraqi people are being promised an easy trip to Europe, a European paradise of sorts, but the problem is, they end up in a Lithuanian forest in a refugee camp, he said. We think those people were lied to, they had to pay a lot of a money to get to the border.

Relations between Lithuania and Belarus soured after the August 2020 elections in Minsk, which was won by long-time President Alexander Lukashenko but has been condemned by the West as rigged. The vote results triggered months of protests and a harsh crackdown on the opposition by Lukashenkos authoritarian regime.

Hussein said the committee would investigate the issue inside Iraq and take action based on its results.

Migrants in Verebiejai, Lithuania, told The Associated Press earlier this week that they came to Minsk from Baghdad.

I gave somebody $1,400 to bring me to the woods. I think it was the border. They showed me the way. They told me: go this way. Then I walked, an unnamed migrant said.

Another told the same story and added that he booked a hotel in Minsk and after that, started trying to cross the border into Lithuania.

___

Associated Press writer Jan M. Olsen in Copenhagen, Denmark, contributed to this report.

By SAMYA KULLAB

Associated Press
DeSantis presses Biden to help keep internet flowing in Cuba View Photo

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and other officials pressed the White House on Thursday to support efforts to preserve internet service to antigovernment protesters in Cuba, even advocating the use of giant balloons as floating Wi-Fi hotspots to allow images of dissent to stream unabated from the authoritarian nation.

Cuban authorities blocked social media sites in an apparent effort to stop the flow of information into, out of and within the country after thousands of Cubans began taking to the streets last weekend to protest limited access to COVID-19 vaccines and basic goods. The country is going through its worst economic crisis in decades.

We obviously have to stand with the people of Cuba against the communist dictatorship, DeSantis said at a press conference in Miami, adding that restoring access to the internet is vital to supporting the people of Cuba.

President Joe Biden responded later Thursday by denouncing communism and saying his administration is assessing whether it has the technology to maintain internet access for Cubans.

Internet access was restored in Cuba earlier this week, but, as of Thursday, cellphone data was still not fully restored.

The protests in the island nation have sparked an outpouring of support in Florida, which is home to the nations largest community of Cuban exiles. Throngs of people in Miami, Orlando and the Tampa area have rallied in support, sometimes shutting down major thoroughfares.

DeSantis said every option should be explored, including using offshore and satellite technology to supply internet service. One option being considered is using balloons to provide connectivity. The Republican governor also suggested using the U.S. Embassy in Havana as a kind of hotspot.

The one thing that communist regimes fear the most is the truth. And if were able to help Cubans communicate with one another  also communicate to the outside world  that truth is going to matter, DeSantis said. And so, Mr. President, nows the time to stand up and be counted.

Its unclear how the U.S. government or any other entity, public or private, might keep internet service uninterrupted.

We need the political willingness from the Biden administration, said Republican U.S. Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar, whose parents were Cuban exiles. And if the federal government considers that they cannot pay for the resources, the Cuban American community will.

On Thursday evening, Biden denounced Cuba as a failed state that is repressing their citizens and called communism a universally failed system during a news conference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Biden said that the U.S. is considering ways to help Cubans  as long as that aid is not undermined by the communist government.

Biden said the administration wont ease a ban on remittances to Cubans because they believe it is highly likely the regime would confiscate them, and that while the U.S. is prepared to send significant amounts of a COVID-19 vaccine to the country, theyd have to be administered by an international organization in such a way that average citizens could get them.

Theyve cut off access to the internet  were considering whether we have the technological ability to reinstate that access, Biden said.

Meanwhile, demonstrations in Florida continued for another day. Hundreds were gathering in Hialeah near Miami to show solidarity with Cubans.

Earlier in the week, two Florida men were arrested during a protest in Tampa in support of the demonstrations and were held on charges related to the states new so-called anti-riot law.

Julian Rodriguez-Rodriguez, 30, Maikel Vazquez-Pico, 39, were among those arrested Tuesday night as a group of protesters attempted to take over an exit ramp at Interstate 275 and Dale Mabry Highway, which is a major thoroughfare in Tampa.

Both were arrested on charges that include battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting law enforcement and taking part in an unlawful assembly that blocked streets or sidewalks, records show.

Rodriguez-Rodriguez put an officer into a bear hug as the officer was trying to arrest another protester, according to an arrest report. He then punched an officer in the face, breaking his glasses as the officer tried to arrest him, the report said. He continued to resist arrest until he was placed in handcuffs.

The men were being held without bond in the Hillsborough County Jail early Thursday. It was not immediately clear whether either had an attorney who could comment.

Earlier this year, DeSantis signed into law a Florida bill that boosts penalties against demonstrators who turn violent and creates new criminal penalties for those who organize demonstrations that get out of hand. Provisions of the law also make it a felony to block some roadways and give immunity to people who drive through protesters blocking a road.

The bill was introduced after last summers protests for racial justice during which some Black Lives Matter protesters were met by police with tear gas and arrests when they took to the streets for days at a time.

During his Thursday press conference, DeSantis again sought to differentiate recent protests over Cuba from those last year.

Cuban Americans who are out demonstrating, he said, theyre not violent riots. Theyre out there being peaceful and theyre making their voices heard, and we support them.

But he said demonstrators should not be shutting down roads that could impede traffic and commerce.

___

Calvan reported from St. Petersburg, Florida. Frisaro reported from Fort Lauderdale. Associated Press writer Alexandra Jaffe in Washington contributed to this report.

By BOBBY CAINA CALVAN and FREIDA FRISARO

Associated Press
Illinois 1st to ban lying to juveniles in interrogations View Photo

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP)  Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Thursday signed the nations first law prohibiting police from lying to juveniles during criminal interrogations.

The measure, which is intended to reduce false confessions by young people, was one of four pieces of legislation the Democrat signed, he said, to change the laws that have failed the people they serve.

Chicago Democrats Sen. Robert Peters and Rep. Justin Slaughter sponsored the juvenile bill. It bans detectives from using deceptive practices when questioning minors in criminal investigations. Experts say young people are far more likely than adults to offer false confessions.

It takes effect Jan. 1, along with another plan allowing a county prosecutor to seek re-sentencing for an offender if the original sentence no longer advances the interests of justice.

Having an immediate effect is a law requiring a study of ways to reduce the states prison population through similar re-sentencing action and a law that allows offenders to participate in so-called restorative justice programs, in which offenders reconcile with victims. It encourages participation by precluding offenders statements from being used against them in future proceedings.
DENVER (AP)  A federal appeals court ruled Wednesday that Tiger King Joe Exotic should get a shorter prison sentence for his role in a murder-for-hire plot and violating federal wildlife laws.

Joe Exotic, whose real name is Joseph Maldonado-Passage, was sentenced in January 2020 to 22 years in federal prison after being convicted of trying to hire two different men to kill animal rights activist Carole Baskin. A three-judge panel for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit in Denver found that the trial court wrongly treated those two convictions separately in calculating his prison term under sentencing guidelines.

The blond mullet-wearing zookeeper, known for his expletive-laden rants on YouTube and a failed 2018 Oklahoma gubernatorial campaign, was prominently featured in the popular Netflix documentary Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness.

The panel agreed with Maldonado-Passage that the court should have treated them as one conviction at sentencing because they both involved the same goal of killing Baskin, who runs a rescue sanctuary for big cats in Florida. According to the ruling, the court should have calculated his advisory sentencing range to be between 17 1/2 years and just under 22 years in prison, rather than between just under 22 years and 27 years in prison. The court ordered the trial court to re-sentence Maldonado-Passage.

Its possible that Maldonado-Passage could receive an even lower sentence than the range cited in the ruling because the court has to consider other factors too, his appeals attorney, Brandon Sample, said.

Meanwhile, another attorney representing Maldonado-Passage, John M. Phillips, hinted at the possibility of seeking a new trial, saying in a statement he would be filing motions citing previously undisclosed and newly discovered evidence in the case as well as examples of government misconduct.

People should know what they saw on television isnt the full truth. It isnt even the tip of the iceberg. It was snowflakes on the tip of the iceberg, largely manufactured by those who wanted to see Joe Exotic in jail for their own benefit," he said.

Maldonado-Passage, who has maintained his innocence, was also sentenced for killing five tigers, selling tiger cubs and falsifying wildlife records.

His supporters were disappointed that former President Donald Trump failed to issue him a pardon before leaving office. They were so confident in his chances that they had readied a celebratory limousine and a hair and wardrobe team to whisk him away from prison.

In his pardon application, Maldonado-Passages attorneys argued that he was railroaded and betrayed by others and said he will likely die in prison because of health concerns. He is serving his sentence at a medical prison in Fort Worth, Texas.

____

This story has been corrected to say that the appeals court said the trial court should have calculated an advisory sentencing range of between 17 1/2 years and just under 22 years in prison, not that Maldonado-Passage should have been sentenced within that range.
WARSAW, Poland (AP)  Polands constitutional court ruled Wednesday that temporary injunctions issued by the European Unions top court regarding Polands judiciary conflict with the nations constitution are not binding.

Legal observers interpreted the decision from Poland's Constitutional Tribunal as a move by Poland's right-wing government to undermine the power of EU laws within the country and even a step away from the 27-nation bloc. Poland joined the EU in 2004, agreeing to abide by its rules and laws.

The refusal to implement rulings of the European Court of Justice in Poland is a clear step towards taking Poland out of the European Union," Jeroen Lenaers, a European Parliament member from the Netherlands, said.

We fear that the Polish government is on the path to Polexit, Lenaers said.

The Constitutional Tribunal said that even though Poland is an EU member, domestic issues concerning the judiciary and court system remain the sole purview of Polish authorities and legislation.

Former EU Council head Donald Tusk said on Twitter that It is not Poland, but (ruling party leader Jaroslaw) Kaczynski that is leaving the EU together with his party.

Only we Poles can effectively oppose that, said Tusk, Poland's ex-prime minister who recently made a political comeback.

Departing human rights ombudsman Adam Bodnar said the verdict amounted to telling the top European court that Poland will not apply its rulings.

But Poland's justice minister, Zbigniew Ziobro, who is behind the controversial changes to the justice system, praised the ruling saying it defends Poland's constitutional order against the lawless interference and aggression of the law coming from European bodies.

Wednesday ruling was triggered by a 2020 interim decision by the European Court of Justice that ordered the suspension of a new chamber at Polands Supreme Court that was set up to discipline judges and prosecutors.

Critics view the chamber as a tool for sanctioning those critical of the changes the government has made to the judiciary since winning power in 2015. The government insists the changes are needed to free the justice system of lingering influences of the communist era, but critics say they just put the justice system under political control.

The changes have put Poland on a collision course with the EU that has triggered sanctioning procedures, and Wednesday's ruling only adds to the conflict.

The European court issued temporary injunctions suspending the disciplinary chamber while it drafts an opinion on whether the body violates EU law. But some chamber members protested the court's interim decision to the Constitutional Tribunal, which is largely composed of government loyalists.

Just hours before the ruling in Warsaw, deputy head of the European court emphasized the urgent need for Poland to suspend the disciplinary chamber.

The Constitutional Tribunal is expected to rule soon on whether EU law takes primacy over Polands Constitution. The decision Wednesday was seen as an indication of how the tribunal's judges might rule.
ANKARA, Turkey (AP)  Turkey marked the fifth anniversary of a failed military coup with a series of events Thursday commemorating the people who died trying to quash the uprising against the government.

The observances kicked off with visits to grave sites and memorials honoring the dead, where prayers were held. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan led a ceremony in parliament before attending other events, including the opening a museum commemorating the crushing of the July 15, 2016 coup attempt.

On that night, factions within the military used tanks, warplanes and helicopters to try to overthrow Erdogans government. Heeding a call from the president, thousands took to the streets to oppose the takeover attempt.

A total of 251 people were killed and around 2,200 others were wounded as the coup-plotters fired at crowds and bombed parliament and other government buildings. Around 35 people who allegedly participated in the plot also were killed.

We will never be a be able to repay the brave men who, through their sacrifices that dark night, brought a (bright) morning for our nation and democracy, Erdogan said Thursday. Through its resistance on July 15, our people not only averted a coup attempt but also prevented an attempted occupation (of) our country.

Two brothers, Huseyin and Cengiz Hasbag, were among thousands of people who rushed to the streets after Erdogan called on the people to resist the attempt. Cengiz died in violence that took place on the Bosporus bridge, which links Istanbuls Asian and European shores and has since been renamed the July 15 Martyrs' Bridge.

I said, Cengiz, I will go out for Allah and the Prophet, and pursue my cause, Hasbag told The Associated Press, recalling the night five years ago. Cengiz said, Brother, I will come too.

On the bridge, the brothers began to help people wounded by soldiers taking part in the coup. Hasbag said he then heard a noise that sounded like an explosion.

I looked at my brother Cengiz. He was martyred by a bullet that entered his right shoulder and chest, he said.

Turkey has blamed U.S.-based Muslim cleric Fethullah Gulen, a former Erdogan ally, for the attempted coup. Gulen rejects the accusation. The Turkish government designated his network a terrorist group.

Government officials insist that Gulens network remains a threat to Turkey. In a speech in parliament on Wednesday, Erdogan said his government was determined to go after the network until the last member is neutralized.

The government declared a state of emergency after the failed coup and launched a massive crackdown on Gulens network. Tens of thousands of people were arrested for alleged links to the coup and to Gulen. Some 4,900 people were sentenced to prison, including around 3,000 who were given life sentences, the state-run Anadolu Agency reported.

More than 130,000 people were fired from public service jobs through emergency decrees, among them teachers and police officers. Defense Minister Hulusi Akar said this week that 23,364 military personnel were fired from the armed forces for their alleged ties to the network.

Critics say the arrests and dismissals went too far and Turkey's broad terror laws were used to target all government opposition.

More than 100 people with purported links to Gulen were detained abroad or extradited to Turkey to stand trial, including a nephew of the cleric who was reportedly captured by Turkish security in Kenya.

Schools, cultural centers and associations set up across the world by Gulens transnational network were shuttered or transformed to institutions tied to the Turkish government.

Turkey has also repeatedly requested the clerics extradition from the U.S.

___

This version corrects name of bridge to the July 15 Martyrs Bridge., not the July 15 Bridge.

__

Robert Badendieck and Mehmet Guzel contributed from Istanbul.
The 13th Annual Petit Family Foundation Road Race and Fitness Walk was held Sunday, July 11, setting off from Plainville High School.

And once again, the event was well-attended.

A social media post by the Petit Family Foundation states: Our hearts are so full of #gratitude! #thankyou for your wonderful support and for making it such a great day yesterday at the 13th Annual Petit Family Foundation Road Race & Fitness Walk! #thankyou to the Plainville Police Department, Plainville Fire Department and Public Works! #thankyou to all of our donors, sponsors, volunteers, participants and race committee! For Jennifer, Hayley and Michaela....always.

In the 5K race, Mario Vazquez bested the 351-person field with a time of 16:07. Plainville resident Jacob Demmons was second (17:57).

The top female finisher was Sarah Praisner (24th, 21:11). Gianna Rodriquez was the top female runner from Plainville (30th, 21:47).

On behalf of the Petit Family race, the Petit Family Foundation has awarded over $4 million in grants to programs and projects all over Connecticut, as well as the American Northeast and all across the United States.
Starbucks and Coca-Cola called on Congress to revisit the Voting Rights Act as major corporations push back against Republican efforts in many U.S. states to restrict ballot access.

"The right to vote is core to our democracy," Starbucks Chief Executive Officer Kevin Johnson said in a statement on Wednesday. "We believe that voting should be free of discrimination of any kind."

The comments come a day after President Joe Biden delivered an impassioned speech in defense of broadening the right to vote. GOP leaders in a number of states have introduced new laws they say are necessary to protect election integrity, but critics say they're intended to limit the ability of people of color to cast ballots.

Starbucks said it joined Business for Voting Rights, a coalition of companies calling on Congress to amend the Voting Rights Act to ensure safeguards against discrimination. In an open letter signed by scores of companies including Amazon, Pepsi and Tesla, the group endorses H.R. 4, known as the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. It doesn't address the wider-reaching H.R. 1, the For the People Act, which would establish considerably more federal control of election policy.

The coffee chain also said in the statement that it would offer information and resources for its employees, help them create a work schedule that will allow them to vote and solidify ride-share partnerships.

Coke said in a separate statement that it supports bipartisan efforts to reauthorize the Voting Rights Act. The company publicly criticized a law earlier this year that restricted voting access in its home state of Georgia, prompting a backlash against the brand by conservative groups.

"Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of our democracy, and for decades the Coca-Cola Co. has advocated to ensure voting is easy and accessible to all eligible voters," the company said. Coke is not listed among the companies on the Business for Voting Rights website, and a representative for the soda maker didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.
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The year that has passed between the announcement of the 72nd and the 73rd annual Primetime Emmy Award nominations has been one of dramatic change. From the presidential election and subsequent inauguration to the COVID-19 vaccine finally rolling out, allowing more productions to resume, the type of content, let alone its volume and origin, has fluctuated with the times. Last year, for example, we were talking about Quibis entrance into the Emmy race, but now that streamer has shut down.

And of course, all that affected the 73rd annual Emmy nominations, announced July 13.

Such former Television Academy darlings as HBOs Succession and Amazon Prime Videos The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel were still facing production delays that kept them from completing and releasing new seasons by the end of this years eligibility window. They sat out the race, paving the way for first-time nominees such as Amazons The Boys and HBO Maxs Hacks to jump in.

The combined power of HBO and new streamer HBO Max (which had barely launched when 2020s FYC was happening) pushed it to the top of the leaderboard for most nominations by network this year (130), just barely sneaking past Netflix (129). Disney Plus came in a respectable third with 71 nominations, and fourth place  once again no doubt aided by juggernaut Saturday Night Live  went to NBC, the lone broadcast network to break into the top 5, with 46 noms. (That fifth spot went to Apple TV Plus, which, boosted by freshman comedy Ted Lasso, picked up 35 noms.)

On the studio side, Warner Bros. Television Group came out on top with 79 nominations, including three in comedy series (helped by the aforementioned Ted Lasso), one each in drama series and competition program and one for the long-awaited reunion special for Friends.

Here are some of the other major takeaways from this years Emmy nominations.

Voting Down the Line

Once again, the Television Academy proved it had its favorites, and it stuck with them. While the 2020 Emmy nominees were heavy with above-the-line teams for Succession, Schitts Creek and Watchmen, there were similarly strong showings for 2021 nominees The Crown, The Handmaids Tale, Ted Lasso and WandaVision. Both Netflixs The Crown and Hulus The Handmaids Tale received their fourth nominations in the drama category and are clearly not losing any favor with voting members of the Academy. The Crown tied for the most overall noms this year with 24, including drama series, two for drama directing, drama writing, lead drama actor (Josh OConnor), two for lead drama actress (Olivia Colman, Emma Corrin), supporting drama actor (Tobias Menzies), three for supporting drama actress (Gillian Anderson, Helena Bonham Carter, Emerald Fennell), guest drama actor (Charles Dance) and guest drama actress (Claire Foy). The Handmaids Tale, meanwhile, nabbed 21 nods, including in drama series and lead drama actress (Elisabeth Moss), in addition to drama writing, drama directing, three in the supporting drama actor category (O-T Fagbenle, Max Minghella, Bradley Whitford), four in the supporting drama actress category (Madeline Brewer, Ann Dowd, Yvonne Strahovski, Samira Wiley) and two in the guest drama actress category (Alexis Bledel, Mckenna Grace). On the comedy front, Apple TV Plus Ted Lasso scored 20 noms for its first outing, including three in comedy directing, two in comedy writing, four in the sup  porting comedy actor category (Brett Goldstein, Brendan Hunt, Nick Mohammed, Jeremy Swift), two in the supporting comedy actress category (Juno Temple, Hannah Waddingham), lead comedy actor (Jason Sudeikis) and comedy series. Meanwhile, Disney Plus WandaVision picked up the second-most noms overall with 23, including in the limited/anthology series race, three for limited/anthology series writing, limited/anthology series directing, lead limited series/TV movie actor (Paul Bettany), lead limited series/TV movie actress (Elizabeth Olsen) and supporting limited series/TV movie actress (Kathryn Hahn).

Adapted for the Academys Acclaim

Existing IP has long been a source for television creatives to stretch their talents, and it continues to pay off with awards attention. Ten series up in the drama, comedy and limited/anthology categories were adapted from previous works, be they beloved film franchises, novels or com  ics. Returning nominees here are The Handmaids Tale and Disney Plus The Mandalorian in drama, which are seeing their fourth and second nominations, respectively. First-timers hit each genre ballot, though. Comedy features Netflixs Cobra Kai (an extension of The Karate Kid uni  verse) and HBO Maxs The Flight Attendant, inspired by Chris Bohjalians novel of the same name, while drama also includes The Boys, which comes from the comics of the same name; Netflixs Bridgerton, based on Julia Quinns novel series; and HBOs Lovecraft Country, adapted from Matt Ruff s 2016 novel. And then in the limited race, the majority (three out of five) of nominees fit the bill with WandaVision, Netflixs The Queens Gambit and Amazons The Underground Railroad.

Reality Race Shake-up

Every year the Emmy race looks a little different due to new series that capture the zeitgeist and therefore voters attention. But in 2021, some specific reality races have been further shaken up due to stalwarts in certain categories now submitting in new ones. This is most prevalent in the hosted nonfiction series or special cate  gory, which welcomes new nom  inee United Shades of America With W. Kamau Bell from CNN as a rookie on that ballot. Previously, that show submitted, nominated and even won in the unstructured reality program category. Other nominees in this race this year include CBS Oprah With Meghan and Harry: A CBS Primetime Special and CNNs Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy, and previous nominees (when the category was called informational series or special) My Next Guest Needs No Introduction With David Letterman from Netflix and Vice from Showtime By contrast, this years unstructured reality race is dominated by newcomers, including Bravos Below Deck, Disney Plus Becoming and Netflixs Indian Matchmaking.

Marquee Musicals

The Television Academy has long had a love of live musical events and even dipped its toe into celebrating original scripted musicals on television, from Crazy Ex-Girlfriend to Glee. This year, though, it went above and beyond by getting in on the trend of lauding the Tony Award-winning Hamilton. Filmed onstage and streaming on Disney Plus, LinManuel Mirandas stage musical earned a dozen Emmy noms, including cleaning up in the limited series/TV movie acting races: Miranda and Leslie Odom Jr. were both nominated in the lead actor category there, while Daveed Diggs, Jonathan Groff and Anthony Ramos all nabbed supporting actor noms, and Renee Elise Goldsberry and Phillipa Soo earned supporting actress noms. Thomas Kail also picked up a coveted directing nom, and the project landed on the variety special (pre-recorded) ballot too. But that was not the only love shown to musical projects: National Geographics Genius: Aretha scored three noms, including lead limited series/TV movie actress for Cynthia Erivo; Apple TV Plus Billie Eilish: The Worlds a Little Blurry nabbed four noms; Peacocks freshman Girls5eva earned a comedy writing nom; James Cordens Carpool Karaoke: The Series returned to the Emmy ballot; and even the recently canceled Zoeys Extraordinary Playlist picked up five noms, including choreography and guest comedy actress for Bernadette Peters.

Not Much Variety After All

The Television Academy originally planned to combine the variety talk series and variety sketch series categories into one this year, but reversed the decision. Admittedly, the content and production process for each kind of show is different enough that they should warrant their own categories. However, since the Academy uses the sliding-scale rule for these categories, the number of submissions in each determines the number of eventual nominees. Variety talk series in 2021 netted 20 entries, which just pushed it into the realm of five nominees, but variety sketch only had nine, resulting in two nominees. Of the talk shows that made the cut, all five were hosted by men (shutting down four-time consecutive nominee Full Frontal With Samantha Bee from TBS); four were hosted by white men (the exception being Comedy Centrals The Daily Show With Trevor Noah). By the numbers, variety sketch offered a more diverse showing with its two nominees being HBOs A Black Lady Sketch Show and the incumbent winner from NBC, Saturday Night Live, but with such low numbers overall, celebration would seem premature. Had the categories been combined, there would still only be five nominees in the category. But perhaps it would be a more interesting and inclusive overall race that way.

Party on Their Minds

Just a day before the nominees were announced, the Academy announced plans for a partially in-person ceremony this year. While not too many details have been fleshed out, let alone finalized, it is pushing the industry back toward the large parties of the past, rather than the mostly isolated pods videoconferencing into the ceremony that dominated 2020. For some nominees, the idea of gathering and sharing in the success was as exciting as the nomination itself. Seeing everybody on Zoom roundtables, everybodys felt quite distant and so the idea of being all together in one place, I think its going to be a really wonderful, wonderful way to celebrate coming back together, says supporting drama actress nominee Anderson.

Antonio Ferme contributed to this report.

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Jackie Chan has long been one of Hong Kongs celebrities who most frequently and prominently engages in propaganda efforts for the mainlands ruling Communist Party, but he recently took his public devotion to the Chinese regime to a new level.

Chan declared his admiration for the Party at a symposium organized by the China Film Association last week to study and implement the spirit of a keynote speech delivered by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Abroad they often say, proud to be Chinese. Im very lucky to be a Chinese person, but I also am very jealous that you all are Party members. I just think the Chinese Communist Party is really so magnificent, he said, according to video footage from official broadcaster CCTV. What the Party says, what it promises, it doesnt need 100 years to accomplish  it will definitely accomplish it in just a few decades. I want to be a Party member!

His declaration was followed by a strong round of applause.

Xis hourlong address, delivered on July 1, marked the 100th anniversary of the Partys founding with hardline talk about Chinas rise, including the message that the country will no longer be bullied by other countries, and that anyone attempting to do so would bash their heads bloody against a Great Wall of steel.

Earlier this month, Chan participated center stage in an enormous propaganda spectacle event put on by the Party at Beijings 91,000-capacity Birds Nest national stadium, best known abroad as the location of the 2008 Olympics opening ceremony.

In the star-studded show released on the July 1 anniversary via state broadcaster CCTV, Chan sang a part of the Yellow River Cantata, a classic patriotic work composed during the Second Sino-Japanese War.

The Hong Kong actor joined forces with Taiwanese signer Angela Chang and Liu Naiqi, a tenor from Macau, to sing: Defend your hometown, defend the Yellow River defend all of China! They were accompanied by thousands of performers dressed as soldiers from the Eighth Route Army, a military group under Communist Party command during that conflict in the late 30s and 40s.

The performance took place the same day that scores of people in his native Hong Kong were arrested to prevent demonstrations against the Partys increasing control over the territory.

Speaking a week after the performances release at the July 8 China Film Association meeting, Chan said he admired the Eighth Route Armys verve.

Those soldiers faced down machine guns while wearing straw sandals and using single-shot pistols, and confronted their advanced weaponry with swords and spears. I think the Eight Route Army of our Communist Party is truly amazing!

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Gabriel Iglesias is nearing the end of his 27-show stint, but not before giving a local restaurant some of his business.

The West Coast comedian lovingly known as "Fluffy," seems to be in the mood for a bit of East Coast flavor. He stopped by Max and Louie's New York Diner a few times between his shows, owner Drew Glick tells MySA. One of his recent stops made a post on the restaurant's Facebook page.

"Gabriel 'Fluffy' Iglesias loving our 'fluffy challah French toast grilled cheese' in between his hilarious shows at the Tobin Center," the Max and Louie's Facebook post says.

RELATED: Mexican pop star Gloria Trevi ate at San Antonio's Cuishe over the weekend

Glick says Max and Louie's has become a staple of Iglesia's San Antonio trips as he has dropped in "multiple" times over the years. He's been there twice in the last two weeks, ordering favorites like the skirt steak entree to pastrami chili cheese fries.

The owner says the French toast is one of the most-popular menu items. The plate in the photo consists of two pieces of the challah French toast, "a lot of cheese, bacon, and topped with sunny-side up eggs, Glick adds.

Iglesias was not immediately available to comment on other local favorites, but his Instagram shows he stopped by a local Starbucks that he compared to Disney's Jungle Cruise and ventured out to the Salt Lick in Driftwood, about an hour north of San Antonio.

READ MORE FROM MADALYN: San Antonio 'best' for bagels adding a brewery to first brick-and-mortar

Max and Louie's New York Diner opened at 226 West Bitters Road in September 2016. If you'll take whatever Fluffy's having, that'll run you $12.95. The diner's menu shows the plate starts at $12.95 and has the option of add-ons, like eggs and pastrami, for an extra charge.

Fluffy has a few more shows at the Tobin Center before he wraps up his San Antonio stay on Saturday. Tickets are available through the Tobin Center, online or in-person.
President Joe Biden on Tuesday nominated former Sen. Jeff Flake, a Republican lawmaker who endorsed his 2020 run for the White House, to serve as U.S. ambassador to Turkey.

Flake served in the U.S. Senate from Arizona from 2013 to 2019 and in the U.S. House from 2001 to 2013.

Flake retired from the Senate at the end of his term in 2019, saying he was out of step with the Republican Party in the era of former President Donald Trump. He later wrote a book, Conscience of a Conservative, that was a critique of Trump.

With this nomination, the Biden Administration reaffirms the best tradition of American foreign policy and diplomacy: the credo that partisan politics should stop at the waters edge. U.S. foreign policy can and should be bipartisan, Flake said in a statement. That is my belief as well, and my commitment.

Flake was one of more than two dozen former Republican lawmakers to announce their support for Republicans for Biden.

Former Reps. Charlie Dent of Pennsylvania, Jim Greenwood of Pennsylvania and Jim Leach of Iowa and Sen. John Warner of Virginia, who died in May, are among the former Republican lawmakers who endorsed Biden last year.

The White House also announced Tuesday that Biden is tapping career senior foreign service officer Kent Logsdon to serve as ambassador to Moldova.

Flake, if confirmed, will be dispatched to Ankara at a difficult moment in the U.S.-Turkey relationship.

The list of disagreements is unusually long for the two NATO allies: Theres U.S. support for Kurdish fighters in Syria, as well as Turkeys purchase of a Russian weapons system. And in April, Biden infuriated Ankara by declaring that the Ottoman-era mass killing and deportations of Armenians was genocide.

Previous U.S. presidents had avoided using the term out of concern that it would complicate ties with Turkey, which is fiercely proud of its Ottoman history and insists that those killed in the early 20th century were victims of civil war and unrest.

Biden administration and Turkish government officials are also currently in talks about Turkey providing security at Kabuls Hamid Karzai International Airport after the U.S. completes its pullout from Afghanistan later this summer.

Sen. Patrick Leahy, a Vermont Democrat, said Flake was well suited to serve as Biden's chief envoy to Turkey at a critical moment in the relationship.

Jeff is a perfect choice to work toward a more constructive relationship that would be good for both of our countries, for the region, and for the world, Leahy said.

Flake would succeed David Satterfield, a well-respected career foreign service officer who has served as the U.S. ambassador to Turkey for more than two years.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Welcoming Angela Merkel to the White House for a final time, President Joe Biden renewed his concerns to the German chancellor Thursday about a major, nearly complete Russia-to-Germany gas pipeline but said they agreed Russia must not be allowed to use energy as a weapon.

The two discussed  though made no apparent headway  on differences over the Nord Stream 2 pipeline during a largely friendly farewell visit for Merkel as she nears the end of a political career that has spanned four American presidencies.

On a personal note, I must tell you I will miss seeing you at our summits, Biden said as he stood by Merkel, the second-longest serving chancellor in Germany's history, at a late afternoon White House press conference. "I truly will.

Merkel, who had a famously difficult relationship with former President Donald Trump, showed her ease and familiarity with Biden, who has long been a fixture in international politics, repeatedly referring to him as "Dear Joe.

Asked to compare her relationship with Biden to hers with Trump, Merkel remained diplomatic, saying only that it was in any German chancellors interest to work with every American president." She added with a smile, "Today was a very friendly exchange.

But their personal warmth notwithstanding, the U.S.-German relationship is entering new territory as Merkel, who is not seeking another term in September elections, nears her departure from office. There are concerns on both sides about how the two nations will negotiate growing disagreements.

The United States has long argued that the Nord Stream 2 project will threaten European energy security by increasing the continents reliance on Russian gas and allowing Russia to exert political pressure on vulnerable Eastern and Central European nations, particularly Ukraine. But Biden recently waived sanctions against German entities involved in the project, a move that angered many in Congress.

Sen. Marco Rubio, a Florida Republican, in a letter to Biden on Thursday ahead of the leaders' meeting raised concerns that the pipeline is already having an economic impact on U.S. ally Ukraine. Rubio said Gazprom, the company that operates Nord Stream 2, has already started to reduce its use of pipelines in Ukraine as the new gas pipeline nears completion.

Merkel sought to downplay the differences, and to stress that the pipeline was in addition to  not meant to displace  Ukrainian pipelines.

"Our idea is and remains that Ukraine remains a transit country for natural gas, that Ukraine just as any other country in the world has a right to territorial sovereignty, Merkel said. She added that Germany stood ready to react to Moscow should Russia not respect this right of Ukraine that it has as a transit country.

Merkel also raised concerns about COVID-19 travel restrictions that prevent most Europeans from traveling to the U.S.

Biden said he had brought in the head of his coronavirus task force to discuss the issue and that he expected to be able to offer a more definitive answer within the next seven days about when the restrictions might be eased.

Merkel started her day with a working breakfast with Vice President Kamala Harris, and Harris' office said the two had a very candid discussion."

Back home in Germany, Merkel's country and neighboring Belgium dealt with the aftermath of heavy flooding that left more than 60 people dead and dozens missing.

My sympathy goes to the relatives and of the dead and missing, she said.

Officials in Washington and elsewhere are wondering what course Germany might take after the September vote.

Merkel's Christian Democratic Union is leading in polls, but the environmentalist Greens and the center-left Social Democrats are also vying to lead a future government. While the three parties differ in many policy areas, all are committed to a strong trans-Atlantic relationship.

Germany has strong trade ties with China but has also been critical of Beijing's human rights record. Merkel is keen to avoid a situation in which Germany, or the European Union, might be forced to choose sides between China and the United States.

Merkel has insisted on the need to cooperate with China on global issues such as climate change and the coronavirus pandemic, even while then-President Trump was accusing Beijing of having started it the pandemic.

Still, Merkel stressed in her comments to reporters that she wants Germany and the European Union to coordinate their policy toward China with Washington, including on issues such as labor rights, trade and cybersecurity.

I believe that the foundations of our dealings with China should be based on the common values" of the U.S. and Germany, she said.

The humanitarian group Doctors Without Borders urged Biden to lean on Merkel to drop her opposition to proposals for suspending vaccine patents. Merkel, a trained scientist, has argued that lifting the patents wouldn't be effective and could harm future research and development efforts.

A group of Democratic lawmakers called on Germany to drop its blockade of a COVID-19-related waiver of intellectual property rights under global trade rules. Such a waiver, the lawmakers argued, would help scale production of effective vaccines around the world.

The Biden administration has expressed support for the waiver being discussed at the World Trade Organization, but White House officials did not anticipate differences being resolved during Merkel's visit.

While there are points of tension, Biden seemed eager to offer Merkel a proper farewell.

He hosted Merkel and her husband, as well as an array of lawmakers and administration officials, current and past, at the White House for a dinner Thursday evening. The guest list included Secretary of State Antony Blinken, as well as two of his predecessors  Hillary Clinton and Colin Powell.

The Republican Senate and House leaders, Mitch McConnell and Kevin McCarthy, were also in attendance along with other top U.S. and German officials. The menu featured crispy sea bass and black pepper tagliatelle.

Earlier Thursday, Harris hosted Merkel for breakfast at her residence on the grounds of the U.S. Naval Observatory, commending her for her extraordinary career." Merkel in turn noted the historic nature of the Harris vice presidency.

I can only say that Im delighted, too, for this opportunity here to meet the first madam vice president of the United States of America," Merkel said before the two leaders stepped into a residence to talk over a breakfast of Gruyere souffle, seasonal fruit and charcuterie.

Also Thursday, Merkel received an honorary doctorate, her 18th, from Johns Hopkins University and spoke at the universitys School of Advanced International Studies.

___

Jordans reported from Berlin and Madhani from Chicago.
San Antonio and Bexar County officials held a press conference Wednesday afternoon to discuss the jump in the COVID-19 positivity rate.

The city's positivity rate skyrocketed to 11.2 percent this week  a 5.4 percent higher than the previous week, according to data from the City of San Antonio.

It was a throwback to the daily coronavirus briefings of the past with Mayor Ron Nirenberg joined by County Judge Nelson Wolff, Metropolitan Health District Director Claude Jacob, as well as other city and University Hospital staff to talk to urge residents to get the COVID-19 vaccine  a push aimed particularly at one age group.

Here are four things to take away from conference.

Compared to the last time San Antonio reached 11 percent, it's not as high

Nirenberg says last week 8,673 people were tested and 971 people were positive. The seven-day rolling average is now 126. The highly contagious Delta variant of the coronavirus has been driving the renewed momentum of the spread, he added.

"The increase in COVID-19 cases is a reminder that after 230,623 known COVID-19 patients and 3,578 deaths in our community, the virus isn't finished with us," Nirenberg says.

The last time San Antonio was at 11 percent was in January 2021 when 6,000 people tested positive in a week, per Nirenberg. During the height of the pandemic, about 60,000 were getting tested per week compared to 10,000 per week this month, said Assistant City Manager Colleen Bridger.

There is a big difference between now and back then. Now more than 1 million people have been fully vaccinated  thats 64 percent of the population  and 1.2 million, or 74 percent, have received one dose.

Because of vaccinations, COVID-19 cases are milder and our hospitalization rate is much lower, Nirenberg says.

An average of 155 COVID-19 patients were hospitalized last week compared to 1,411 patients six months ago today.

Still, Nirenberg says the upward trend is concerning, particularly for those who were unvaccinated. Wolff said 95 percent hospitalized COVID-19 patients are not vaccinated.

Vaccinations have slowed, and young people aren't taking this kind of shot

COVID-19 remains deadly and the unvaccinated remain at risk of hospitalization. Earlier this year, the city was vaccinating 2,500 people a day at the Alamodome. Now, less than 200 people a day are receiving the vaccine.

Wolff says younger people, by and large, are choosing not to get the vaccine. He adds that only 29 percent of people between ages 15-19 are fully vaccinated in San Antonio, and that percentage only jumps slightly to 33 percent for people ages 20-29.

"Still, roughly giving, one-third or so of younger people are getting vaccinations, and we know that's where the problem is," Wolff says.

The vaccine is free and does not require health insurance, and Nirenberg says most clinics take walk-ins for the vaccine. If businesses with fewer than 500 employees allow workers to take paid time off to get the vaccine, they're eligible for a tax credit through the American Rescue Plan.

He reminds people who have not received the vaccine  what he called "long haulers"  that they are susceptible to long-term digestive, respiratory and cognitive side effects if they recover from COVID-19.

Wolff says people who are not vaccinated put others at high risk, and also urges them to "get off of social media" to avoid misinformation and combat vaccine hesitancy.

"Get your shots. It's free," Wolff says. "You're putting our community in jeopardy by not doing that. I wish you would show more respect to other people other than yourself."

Unvaccinated kids in schools are at risk of contracting and spreading

With the vaccination rate among 15 to 19-year-olds being the lowest, kids at local schools are still at risk of contracting and spreading COVID-19.

Nirenberg says the city will continue to work with the health labs and pop-up clinics to makes sure that the school districts are aware of vaccination opportunities. Of course, Wolff says, parents must still give consent for children to receive the vaccine.

Dr. Junda Woo, chief medical officer, said school districts have been holding a lot of vaccine drives, but she hopes more children will become eligible for the vaccine in the fall.

She recommends that children who haven't received the vaccine still wear masks and socially distance from each other at a recommended 3 feet. However, since Gov. Greg Abbott ended the mask mandate for schools in June, the city and state can only recommend those health measures.

Jerry Lara /Staff photographer

There is still a blood shortage in San Antonio

Nirenberg says San Antonio is still in need of blood. The South Texas Blood and Tissue Center reported that the blood supply dipped to critically low stocks in late 2020, as the coronavirus pandemic safety measures cut into blood drives.

That shortage continues, and Nirenberg urges community organizations and employers to host a mobile blood rive to help increase the city's blood supply.

"Please go give blood because there is an incredible shortage of blood supply, particularly for use in trauma, but also those elective surgeries that might have to be deferred because of blood.
Carnival Cruise Line is navigating Floridas vaccine passport law by adjusting its stance on allowing unvaccinated guests on sailings, but is now requiring they both pay $150 for COVID-19 testing and pay for travel insurance.

We know that this puts an expense on the cruise that you probably didnt account for when you booked the cruise, but we have to keep everybody safe, said Carnival brand ambassador John Heald.

The move comes after the line made its first sailings from the U.S. in more than 16 months, sailing with vaccinated passengers only from both Miami on Carnival Horizon and from Galveston, Texas on Carnival Vista over the Fourth of July weekend.

Florida has a law that went into effect July 1 that would fine companies $5,000 per instance if they require proof of vaccination. The ban of so-called vaccine passports prompted lines such as Celebrity Cruises, which originally announced they would not allow unvaccinated passengers, to adjust their policies.

Floridas law, though, has made it difficult for cruise lines to sail with what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention require for a ship to get its conditional sailing certificate without first performing a simulated sailing. If a ship states it is sailing with at least 98% crew and 95% passengers vaccinated, it can skip the test sailing. That was how Carnival chose to get back to business with its initial sailings, but that move was also met with customer dissatisfaction since it meant no children were allowed on board initially.

The updated policy creates an opportunity for those without the vaccine to sail, and likely with the added cost, keep the ships numbers within the CDCs parameters.

The policies are similar to what Royal Caribbean has in place for its Florida cruises, although Carnival is putting the onus of the cost of testing on customers for everyone in their party, including those under age 12. No one 11 and under can get a vaccine in the U.S. Carnival is also implementing the testing policy for ships outside of Florida.

The travel insurance policy, though, is only for Florida-based ships, and does not go into effect until July 31.

Each unvaccinated guest must provide proof of a valid travel insurance policy at the time of check-in that has a minimum of $10,000, per person, in medical expense coverage and $30,000 coverage for emergency medical evacuation and without COVID-19 exclusions, reads a statement on the Carnival website. Guests without the required proof of insurance will not be permitted to sail and no refund will be provided.

Unlike the testing fee, the insurance requirement does not apply to children under the age of 12.

While you may be a little upset, you may even be angry, there are options available to you, Heald said, saying customers can change their sail date or get a refund.

The line is slated to expand its restart business with its newest ship, Mardi Gras, from Port Canaveral beginning July 31 and another ship from Galveston, Carnival Breeze, starting July 15. In August, Carnival Magic is set to sail from Port Canaveral on Aug. 7 and Carnival Sunrise from Miami on Aug. 14.

Only Royal Caribbean has so far opted to perform test sailings for its ships, and only one  Freedom of the Seas sailing out of Miami  has earned its conditional sailing certificate. The line was always going to allow children as part of its restart plan, and has stated that those 11 and under would make up about 10% of passengers typically on its sailings.

Among Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity, there are three ships now sailing from Florida, with another nine ships from those brands as well as MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line set to join them before September. Other plans are in place to restart sailing from California, New York and Washington on Alaska cruises in the next few months.

The cruise industry first shut down in March 2020 as ships became ground zero for several deadly outbreaks as the coronavirus pandemic took hold.

Cruising from the U.S. was put under a no-sail order by the CDC until fall 2020, which then shifted to a conditional sail order that only allowed for the first sailing with paying customers on June 26, when Celebrity Edge first sailed from Port Everglades.

While the conditional sail order remains until Nov. 1, 2021, a federal judge has granted a preliminary injunction in the state of Florida that stops the CDC from enforcing it starting July 18. The injunction is part of a lawsuit brought by the state that claims the CDC overstepped its authority implementing an order the shut down an industry that brings in billions to the economy.

After July 18, cruise lines from Florida at least, wont be subject to the rules in place from the order, although it will still be active in other states.

Disney Cruise Line was set to have already performed a simulated sailing in an effort to get its conditional sailing certificate for the Disney Dream, although positive COVID-19 test results on some of its crew caused a delay in the sailing. Disney Dream is still on the companys website with an Aug. 9 sailing from Port Canaveral. It is unclear if Disney will still perform the test sailing, or skip it because of the injunction that goes into effect in less than week.

MSC Cruises had also made plans for simulated sailings ahead of their ships Florida debuts, while Norwegian Cruise Line still has a vaccines-only policy announced for its return to business.
Dead Tree Books is at a turning point as the owners search for a smaller space to survive in order to continue serving the Southside.

Husband-wife duo Kenny and Melissa Johnson are the owners of the used book store at 5645 South Flores Street, in the heart of the Southside. Before the June 2016 opening, the closest book store was miles away.

Now, Kenny says Dead Tree Books is in danger of closing if the couple is unable to find a smaller place to rent before the end of the month. The Johnsons are currently spending "just over" $1,500 a month. To lower the overhead, they need a space with rent around $1,000 a month, he says.

"We're looking for a place about 1,000 square feet. That means we're going to have to shoehorn roughly 20,000 books into a smaller area," he adds. "If we can't find a smaller place, we're going to have to make other arrangements, which may involve closing."

Kin Man Hui/Staff photographer

Along with being a resource for the underserved San Antonio neighborhood, Dead Tree Books welcomes customers from even further south, with folks traveling from towns like Somerset, Pleasanton and Floresville for their next read.

RELATED: I had San Antonio Chinese food gem Three Amigos for lunch and I'll be full until tomorrow

Dead Tree regular Galilea Herrera is one of the shop's "little bit of everything" book-buyers. She likes visiting the neighborhood bookstore to stock up on early versions of classics. She says if the store closes, her closest options will be Half Price Books on Broadway or the Barnes and Noble near North Star Mall, which are 15 to 20 minutes away.

"While we do have libraries, this is a great opportunity for people to actually purchase physical books to keep in their own collections," the 23-year-old adds. "It's in a price range that really caters to the Southside, considering we're a mid- to low-income community."

Herrera says the store and the literature it sells, offer a loved and lived-in feeling as opposed to the "clinical, stale" feel book-lovers might get from big name book businesses.

"It's such a unique space because it feels so real, it's lived in," she adds. "It feels like you're in your house  that just happens to be ran over by books."

The books, which Herrera says she's never spent more than $5 a piece on, match that homey feeling.

READ MORE FROM MADALYN: Mr. & Mrs. G's is still open in San Antonio despite rumors

"Their secondhand books are extremely cheap and they're well loved," she says. "You always get a treat when you buy one of them because many copies are already annotated. It's nice to see what other people have thought of the book before me and you can't beat the price."

The Johnsons are keeping the Southside as the target of their rental space search.

"The Southside community loves us, they want us to stay in business," Kenny says. "The Southside needs a bookstore. What we need is to be able to run our business and do more than just to do more than just barely make ends meet."

Herrera is one of hundreds who have shown their support for Dead Tree on social media in hopes of rallying local book-lovers to help after the Johnsons shared their troubles in a Facebook post over the weekend. Kenny says people have offered to move books once they find a new space. He expects to be closed for a period of time as they make the transition but will be open noon to 7 p.m. (closed Tuesday and Sunday) until then.

"We're grateful for everything," he adds. "It's been a wonderful ride and we have had the time of our lives doing it."
San Antonio customers who had trouble paying their water bills through the recent pandemic will have to catch up before the water disconnection services begin this fall.

The San Antonio Water System will start disconnecting water when the moratorium ends in October for customers with unpaid current or past bills, board members discussed at a July 13 meeting. However, customers who enroll in a payment plan will be excluded from service disconnection.

The utility will also start assessing late fees on accounts in August, but there will be no retroactive assessments. SAWS representatives reported at a June meeting that there were over 52,000 delinquent accounts.

"The goal for SAWS is not to cut people off," says Gavino Ramos, vice president of communications and external affairs. "It's to put them on a payment plan so that we can help partner with them on paying their back bill."

READ MORE: San Antonio jeweler adds dazzling addition to Alamo Heights empire

SAWS began a customer outreach in June, and they started reaching out to customers directly. Ramos says the goal is to build communication with customers, knowing that users didn't get into their situation over night.

As of July 13, 80 customers have set up payment plans.

The utility is directing people to its website to set up payment plans. There are three, six and nine-month plans, but Ramos says he understands it may take longer for customers to catch up.

"All we ask is they give us a call," Ramos said.

The SAWS Uplift program will put customers in touch with state and city partner agencies to provide financial assistance.
Maybe youve heard of Lockheed Martins Skunk Works, Googles X lab, Boeings Phantom Works or Amazons Lab126. But how about San Antonios Foxworks?

Those secret research and development workshops have produced mind-boggling technology  spy planes, stealth materials, self-driving cars, drones and e-readers. Foxworks, part of the San Antonio Museum of Science and Technology at Port San Antonio, aims to do the same.

David Monroe, the museums founding chairman, envisioned it as a place to inspire people through science, technology, engineering and math. Foxworks is a part of that vision.

Its not as glitzy or welcoming as the museums preview center that moved into the old Kelly Air Force Base chapel in 2017 or the Ports $60 million innovation center thats under construction. No, Foxworks is gritty, unmediated and closed to the public.

On ExpressNews.com: Robocity, USA? With the rise of robots in San Antonio, were heading that way

From the outside, it looks like another aging military building on Port San Antonio. But inside the single-story cinder block structure  the former Kelly commissary  old and new technologies are colliding.

Think of Foxworks as the back lot of the museum.

But its a lot more than that, said Monroe, 67, a serial inventor and entrepreneur who has more than 50 patents to his credit, including the cell phone camera. This is the makers space, the co-working space and the tech transfer space.

The facility is designed for conversations and connections and brings together a diverse collection of people and technologies.

Yes, its partly storage for roughly 10,000 of Monroes tech relics that havent made it into the museums exhibits. But its also a co-working space that hosts the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the WEX Foundation that exposes middle and high schoolers to space through STEM, and tech startups like XArc space architecture, Reckon Point robot makers and Hatchbed robotics consultants. It also has classrooms, workshops and labs.

Antique telephones, radios, computers, cameras and military communications equipment rest in rows of glass display cases and on open shelves. Packing plastic encases most of the shelves, which run into the darkened back half of Foxworks. The place feels like a mini version of the warehouse at the end of Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark with a touch of mad scientist flare.

On ExpressNews.com: A Texas-sized space summer has billionaires racing for the heavens

Monroe knows which artifacts are where and hes not afraid to rip through the plastic-covered shelves to prove it. He can rattle off each items history in vivid and funny stories that explain why its important today.

To understand Foxworks, you should know more about Monroe. Growing up in Wichita, Kansas, he fell in love with science and electronics. Bill Lear, inventor and founder of Learjet, was one of his earliest mentors. Monroe subscribed to magazines and found joy in building projects and doing science experiments.

Some of his childhood science projects are on display, but these are no baking soda volcanoes. His ninth-grade project  a tall wooden cabinet covered with switches, tubes, lights and gauges  looms near a 1950s telephone switchboard and some of the earliest personal computers.

Its a particle accelerator, or atom smasher, he said of the contraption. This thing boils mercury.

He also built a Tesla coil for his seventh-grade project and, in the eighth grade, a laser.

My poor dad was terrified, Monroe said. We got into arguments over two things: One is he knew I was going to kill myself (in a lab accident), which was probably really valid, and the second was I never wanted to go to bed. I still dont.

On ExpressNews.com: San Antonio firm is working on moon launch pads for NASA

His hobby led to a career in tech and engineering. Now he wants to share his passion.

I wanted to make it easier for kids to get introduced to technology and see all the fun things about it because science is better than fiction, he said. If you study the real world and study real science, its just as fascinating and more exciting than science fiction because its real.

For years, much of Monroes collection was hidden away in boxes and crates. But a meeting with Jim Perschbach, CEO of Port San Antonio, changed that.

The really impressive thing was sitting down and talking to David and realizing that his vision for this was not really to create a museum, Perschbach recalled. It was to bring young people, and not so young people, into an environment where they could see these technologies, these artifacts, these quirky little things as a jumping off point to realize that the people who did that werent different than they are, and they had the ability to do the same thing.

Perschbach invited Monroe to bring his expertise, vision and collection to Port San Antonio.

Foxworks name is a nod to the famous Skunk Works in Palmdale, Calif., with a San Antonio wildlife twist. A skulk of foxes had lived in the building while it was empty. (Yes, a group of foxes is a skulk.)

There were holes where the Freon pipes came up for the refrigeration, and they would dig under the foundation and go through the crawlspace and up those pipe holes, Monroe said. So wed come in here and a little head would pop up and look at us.

Monroe shared a video of a fox his team rescued after it was caught in the buildings ceiling. The foxes have moved on, but the name stuck.

Now, dozens of people including 17 high school interns work in Foxworks every day. These young scientists help with various projects for the museum. One created a computerized 3-D holograph of the future Innovation Center. Others made pieces on 3-D printers for museum exhibits.

In one corner, the Reckon Point crew tests a new robot. Next to them, an exhibit on the evolution of video games covers several tables. And, in the old grocery stores freezers, XArc engineers study how to build lunar habitats from moon dust.

Everyone in the building toils next to artifacts from both famous and not-so-famous scientists: A space station toilet prototype. A collection of 19th-century Edison dynamos  early generators  that range in size from a microwave to walk in refrigerator. Francis Blake transmitters. Alexander Graham Bell and Edison telephones. The list goes on.

These pieces from the past are influencing tomorrows engineers and scientists, and its happening right here in our community.

Brandon Lingle writes for the Express-News through Report for America, a national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms. ReportforAmerica.org. brandon.lingle@express-news.net
Yves here. While Biden noticing that non-compete agreements are an economy-constraining employer abuse is a step forward, its not clear that his Administration intends to do anything more than hand wave, even though the practice has become ludicrously common. Recall that the excuse for non-compete clauses is that an employee might walk off with valuable know-how that helps someone else in their industry. But now these provisions have become common even for low level workers whose jobs are so narrow that they cant possible glean much of competitive value, and are even drafted so as to cover working in different fields. Yes, that makes the employee unemployable elsewhere, a de facto indentured servant, unless they can leave the workforce entirely for a couple of years.

California, by contrast, makes non-competes unenforceable, and it achieved that by statute. From Callahan Law:

According to the California Business and Professions Code Section 16600, every contract by which anyone is restrained from engaging in a lawful profession, trade, or business of any kind is to that extent void. In other words, non-compete agreements are not enforceable in California. However, that does not mean that an employee will not be wrongfully presented with one or told that they have to sign one as a condition to their employment. Employers may try to say that there are extenuating circumstances in place for them to enforce a non-compete agreement, but these arguments are usually rejected by California courts.

In other words, employees can sign employment agreements with unenforceable non-compete provisions, and just ignore any nastygrams their former employer sends when they decamp to a new job. By contrast, even if the FTC were able to take up this mandate, it would pursue actions on a company by company basis. That takes time and leaves most workers in the lurch.

By Raymond Hogler, Professor of Management, Colorado State University. Originally published at The Conversation

Most American workers are hired at will: Employers owe their employees nothing in the relationship except earned wages, and employees are at liberty to quit at their option. As the rule is generally stated, either party may terminate the arrangement at any time for a good or bad reason or none at all.

In keeping with that no-strings-attached spirit, employees may move on as they see fit  unless they happen to be among the tens of millions of workers bound by a contract that explicitly forbids getting hired by a competitor. These non-compete clauses may make sense for CEOs and other top executives who possess trade secrets but may seem nonsensical when they are applied to low-wage workers such as draftsmen in the construction industry. A 2019 business survey found that 29% of companies paying an average wage of less than $13 an hour required all their employees to sign non-compete agreements.

President Joe Biden seems to agree about the oppressive nature of non-compete contracts. On July 9, 2021, he called on the Federal Trade Commission to ban or limit them.

As a scholar of employment law and policy, I also have many concerns about non-compete clauses  such as how they tend to aggravate the power imbalances relationship between workers and bosses and suppress wages and discourage labor market mobility.

The Birth of At-Will Employment

Courts began to enshrine the at-will doctrine in the 19th century, making exceptions only for employees with fixed-term contracts. In Payne v. Western & Atlantic Railroad Co., the Tennessee Supreme Court ruled that a railway foreman in Chattanooga had the right to forbid his workers from buying whiskey from a merchant named L. Payne.

Payne had sued the railroad, claiming it couldnt threaten to fire employees to discourage them from buying goods from a third party. The court disagreed, arguing that the railroad had a right to terminate employees for any reason  even one that involved dealing with a independent merchant.

The notion of at-will employment and its associated lack of job protections soon rose to the level of constitutional mandate. The 1894 Pullman strike, which disrupted national rail traffic, prompted Congress to pass the Erdman Act four years later. That law guaranteed the right of rail workers to join and form unions and to engage in collective bargaining.

But the Supreme Court struck down that law in 1908. Writing for the majority in Adair v. United States, Justice John Marshall Harlan explained that since employers were free to use their property as they wished, they could impose and enforce their own labor rules. Employees, in turn, were free to quit. The court summarized the law with the following statement:

The right of a person to sell his labor upon such terms as he deems proper is, in its essence, the same as the right of the purchaser of labor to prescribe the conditions upon which he will accept such labor from the person offering to sell it, Harlan wrote.

That might sound reasonable, but the Adair ruling led to the proliferation of yellow dog contracts threatening workers with firing if they joined or organized unions. The term disparaged people who were willing to accept such conditions, but the principle had widespread legal approval.

For three decades, the at-will doctrine stymied legislation that would have protected labor rights. Even when a supervisor tried to seduce a longtime employees wife and fired the employee in revenge, courts refused to protect the man from losing his job.

Labor Rights and the Law

With the passage of the National Labor Relations Act in 1935, all private-sector workers and unions gained the power to collectively bargain with employers. Subsequent labor agreements, such as the one negotiated by the Steel Workers Organizing Committee with Carnegie-Illinois Steel in 1937, made employers prove just cause before firing any person covered by the contract.

The Civil Rights Acts of 1964 and 1991 added employment protections prohibiting discrimination based on race, gender, religion and national origin. And the Americans with Disabilities Act, which Congress passed in 1990, ensured that persons with disabilities would have access to jobs with or without reasonable accommodation.

Those laws and other measures, including modern exceptions to the at-will rule, offer workers some security.

But they provide no federal protection from non-compete clauses.

Non-Competes and Low-Wage Workers

Its unclear exactly how many U.S. workers are subject to a non-compete, but the left-leaning Economic Policy Institute estimated in a 2019 report that its around 28% to 47% of all private-sector workers.

The leeway for employers to impose these provisions varies widely from state to state and is in flux.

California, North Dakota and Oklahoma are the only states to ban them outright, while about a dozen forbid them with certain types of low-wage workers. Washington, D.C., also outlaws all non-compete agreements.

At the same time, some states, such as Georgia and Idaho, have made it even easier for companies to enforce them.

Critics have pointed out the disadvantages of noncompete clauses to unskilled labor.

By locking low-wage workers into their jobs and prohibiting them from seeking better-paying jobs elsewhere, the companies have no reason to increase their wages or benefits, Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan said when she sued the Jimmy Johns fast-food franchise in 2016 for making its employees sign noncompete clauses.

The chain subsequently agreed to drop its noncompetes, which had also come under fire in New York. The clauses had barred the sandwich makers workers from working for other companies that earn more than 10% of their revenue from submarine, hero-type, deli-style, pita, and/or wrapped or rolled sandwiches for two years after leaving the Jimmy Johns payroll.

Efforts to Limit Non-Compete Clauses

Given the patchwork of state laws  and reports that companies are using non-competes even in places where they are banned  a uniform federal rule could clarify the situation and benefit both employees and employers.

The FTC has a range of options, from banning non-compete clauses entirely to limiting their use to executives and others who may possess trade secrets or other confidential information. The agency could require that the clauses come with certain due-process protections, such as a right to arbitration of contract disputes.

Executives who sign non-compete clauses already get these kinds of protections, not to mention lucrative buyout provisions.

If employees with lower pay and less prestige arent free to get new jobs, I believe their bosses have a corresponding duty to extend to them the rights enjoyed by people at the top of the corporate ladder, particularly independent third-party dispute resolution.

This is an updated version of an article originally published on Aug. 23, 2017.
Patient readers, Yves apologizes for the lack of original posts. Simultaneous debacles with both her mothers new hospital bed and a new wheelchair are occupying more of her bandwidth than she would wish. lambert

Elusive glass octopus spotted in the remote Pacific Ocean Live Science. Glass octopus is a metaphor with potential.

Feeding raw dog food to your pet? It may be spreading antibiotic-resistant superbugs The Economic Times

Did A Study Find Your Cat Hated Having You Home During Lockdown? Not Quite. HuffPo

Thousands of firefighters battle big blazes across the West AP. Handy map of current large incidents:

Top Australian Coal Mines Are Spewing More Methane Than Rivals Bloomberg

Why Nauru Is Pushing the World Toward Deep-Sea Mining Hakai Magazine

#COVID19

Neutralisation of SARS-CoV-2 lineage P.1 by antibodies elicited through natural SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination with an inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine: an immunological study The Lancet. The Interpretation: SARS-CoV-2 lineage P.1 might escape neutralisation by antibodies generated in response to polyclonal stimulation against previously circulating variants of SARS-CoV-2. Continuous genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 combined with antibody neutralisation assays could help to guide national immunisation programmes. Tis a consummation devoutly to be wished. WHO says catastrophic waves of new delta variant cases are driven by greed The Hill. So WHO finally got something right.

China?

Myanmar

India

The Caribbean

South Africa

UK/EU

Shipping industry seeks to combat dark oil transfers at sea Hellenic Shipping News

Syraqistan

Capitol Riot

Theyre not going to f**king succeed: Top generals feared Trump would attempt a coup after election, according to new book CNN. So, even though Trump did seize the Winter Palace and the radio station, with what army?

Biden Administration

Health Care

Why autoimmunity is most common in women Nature. Evidence has accumulated to reveal that, although some autoimmune diseases are more common in men, women are generally more susceptible, sometimes by a factor of 16 or more. As researchers dig into the reasons why, their insights offer promising avenues towards treatments that could benefit all genders.

Big Brother Is Watching You Watch

Imperial Collapse Watch

American exceptionalism  an interview with Professor Andrew Bacevich Phoenix Media Co-op

Realignment and Legitimacy

Author of the Mega-Viral Thread on MAGA Voters, Darryl Cooper, Explains His Thinking Darryl Cooper (MartyrMade), Glenn Grteenwald. I think this is the key sentence: [RussiaGate] is where people whose political identities have for decades been largely defined by a naive belief in what they learned in civics class began to see the outline of a Regime that crossed not only partisan, but all institutional boundaries. There could be plenty of discussion about naive belief, but isnt involving the DNC in censoring SMS conversations a contemporary example of crossing all institutional boundaries? One of those union of corporations and [para]-state-style-of-thing?

Guillotine Watch

Robin DiAngelo Wants White Progressives to Look Inward The New Yorker. Dont we all!

How To Have Difficult Conversations Galaxy Brain

Class Warfare

The real separation of powers in modern America FT. Comment by Michael Pettis: Call me old fashioned, but I liked it better when the left cared more about the working classes than about culture. To repeat, if you dont put the working class first, youre not on the left. Youre working on the rainbow of flavors to put in your freezer, just like Nancy Pelosi, ka-ching.

The Art of the Romanian Haystack (photo essay) Kuriositas

Is the Universe Open-Ended? Nautilus

Antidote du jour (via):

See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here.
(Natural News) Dr. Peter McCullough, one of the most highly cited physicians on the early treatment of the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19), has put out an explosive new video claiming that Wuhan Flu shots have already killed more than 50,000 Americans.

Calling the so-called vaccine a bioweapon, along with the Chinese Virus itself, Dr. McCullough alleges that the entire plandemic is a form of bioterrorism against the people, its purpose to cull and depopulate a great many of them.

As this, in a sense, bioterrorism phase one was rolled out, it was really all about keeping the population in fear and in isolation and preparing them to accept the vaccine, which appears to be phase two of a bioterrorism operation, McCullough stated during a recent webinar with German attorney Reiner Fuellmich and several other doctors.

Both the respiratory virus and the vaccine delivered to the human body the spike protein, the gain of function target of this bioterrorism research.

McCulloughs video is available for viewing at this link.

Hundreds of thousands of lives could have been saved with treatments for covid that were banned by the government

During the talk, McCullough made the bold claim that at least three whistleblowers, two of them from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), have confirmed that the true number of deaths caused by Fauci Flu shots is considerably higher than what the official numbers show.

Since VAERS (Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System) only captures maybe one percent of all adverse events that actually occur, it is likely that the true count is orders of magnitude higher than what is being reported.

Fifty-thousand deaths, McCullough stated. So, we actually have more deaths due to the vaccine per day than certainly the viral illness by far. Its basically propagandized bioterrorism by injection.

According to VAERS, there have been 5,993 officially reported deaths from Chinese Virus injections. If this accounts for just one percent of all actual deaths, then the truth death count is actually closer to 600,000, though this cannot be proven.

Meanwhile, 600,000 people are said to have died after testing positive for the Wuhan Flu, and McCullough says that at least 85 percent of these deaths could have been prevented had the government allowed for early treatment with drugs like hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and ivermectin.

Instead, people were told to stay home and not return to the hospital unless their symptoms got worse, such as severe breathing problems, reports Algora. By then it was too late for many. They were placed on ventilators and died.

The vast majority of doctors jumped in lockstep to follow these erroneous guidelines handed down by the World Health Organization and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Those guidelines neglected to place any focus on the treatment of sick patients and, from the beginning, as early as April 2020, started emphasizing the need for a vaccine as the only real hope of beating back the virus.

According to McCullough, everything the government and public health figureheads suggested or mandated throughout the plandemic only made things worse. Suppressing proven treatments (i.e., HCQ and ivermectin) while pushing unproven ones (i.e., vaccines) is a recipe for mass death and destruction, which is exactly what we are now witnessing with the emergence of variants.

These variants are nothing more than adverse events caused by the vaccines themselves, and yet the media and government are blaming the unvaccinated for their spread, which is certifiably false.

McCullough is working hard to change the publics view of the jabs, noting that many are now experiencing vaccine regret after having foolishly taken the injection.

More of the latest news about Chinese Virus deception can be found at Pandemic.news.

Sources for this article include:

Algora.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) While many so-called experts continue to demonize carbon dioxide and global warming as threats to the planet, others have quietly been criticizing the theory, pointing out faults in its thinking. Now one scientist has compiled comments from others like him who have spoken up against the current thinking on climate change.

In an article on Global Research, psychologist and educationalist Dr. Rudolf Hansel has collected quotes from other like-minded scientists who have pointed out the many problems with the prevailing theories about climate change.

Scientists dispute IPCC report on climate change

A significant portion of the quotes Hansel collected focus on the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the report that it put out in 1995 that has dominated mainstream thinking about climate change. Many have called the IPCC report into question, including at least one who was involved in its creation.

Dr. Kiminori Itoh of Yohokama National University was one of the co-authors of the IPCC report. But even he has called it, and the hysteria over climate change that it caused, into question, saying that it was the biggest scientific scandal in history.

Meanwhile, the late Dr. Frederick Seitz, former president of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences said that he had never witnessed a more disturbing corruption of the peer-review process than the events that led to this IPCC report.

Other scientists also concur, calling into question the IPCC itself.

The IPCC has actually become a closed circuit; it doesnt listen to others, states Punjab Universitys Dr. Arun D. Ahluwalia, a board member of the UN-supported International Year of the Planet. It doesnt have open minds.

I am really amazed that the Nobel Peace Prize has been given on scientifically incorrect conclusions by people who are not geologists, Ahluwalia adds, referencing the award that the IPCC received for their report.

Others have attacked the methodology used in the report. Victor Manuel Velasco Herrera, a researcher at the Institute of Geophysics of the National Autonomous University of Mexico, stated that the models used by the IPCC were incorrect because they only are based on mathematical models and presented results at scenarios that do not include, for example, solar activity.

NASA knows CO2 isnt responsible for climate change

Its not only individual scientists who dispute the IPCC reports models and the insistence that carbon dioxide is the cause of climate change. It seems that the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has known for over 60 years that the changes occurring to Earths climate and weather patterns are natural and normal.

As far back as 1968, NASA had already observed changes in the solar orbit of the Earth that, along with alterations to the planets axial tilt, are responsible for what climate scientists have dubbed as warming. (Related: NASA admits that climate change occurs because of changes in Earths solar orbit, and NOT because of SUVs and fossil fuels.)

But it was only in 2000 that the agency finally published information on whats called the Milankovitch Climate Theory. This theory states that the Earths climate is changing due to extraneous factors that have nothing to do with human activity.

Despite this, two decades later, the theory has yet to go mainstream. A number of scientists, however, including those quoted by Hansel are changing their tune. At the same time, theyre also pointing out how pressure from both their peers and the media has forced them to remain quiet about this.

Many [scientists] are now searching for a way to back out quietly (from promoting warming fears), without having their professional careers ruined, explained James A. Peden, an atmospheric physicist former of the Space Research and Coordination Center in Pittsburgh.

Others have pointed out that the debate on climate change has become more about politics and financial gain.

Creating an ideology pegged to carbon dioxide is a dangerous nonsense  The present alarm on climate change is an instrument of social control, a pretext for major businesses and political battle, warns Numerical Weather Forecast group founder Delgado Domingos. It became an ideology, which is concerning.

Meanwhile, Dr. Eduardo Tonni of the Committee for Scientific Research in Buenos Aires pointed out that scaremongering about global warming is more profitable for those involved.

The [global warming] scaremongering has its justification in the fact that it is something that generates funds, he said.

Follow ClimateScienceNews.com for more on the truth about climate change.

Sources include:

GlobalResearch.ca

HalTurnerRadioShow.com
(Natural News) White House Chief Medical Counsel Dr. Anthony Fauci said a booster dose of the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine will be necessary in the future. Fauci made the statement after he and other federal health officials met with Pfizer executives.

During a virtual meeting held on Monday, July 12, Pfizer executives presented data to Fauci and other officials on why they believe a third dose of the companys vaccine is necessary to combat the surge in cases supposedly caused by COVID-19 variants. (Related: Pfizer CEO: People may need to take third coronavirus vaccine shot as booster dose  a convenient strategy for an endless revenue stream.)

Pfizer officials said the immunity supposedly provided by the companys COVID-19 vaccine is already waning. They believe people need to take booster doses of the coronavirus vaccine six months after receiving the second dose.

The Big Pharma company claims real-world data from Israels vaccination drive has shown that vaccine efficacy in preventing both infection and symptomatic disease has declined six months post-vaccination. Israel said on Sunday, July 11, that it will begin offering a third dose of Pfizers vaccine to adults with weak immune systems.

After the meeting, Fauci appeared on CNN, where he said a third dose of the Pfizer vaccine may be needed.

The CDC [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] and the FDA [Food and Drug Administration] said that based on the data we know right now, we dont need a booster, he said. That doesnt mean that it wont change, and we might need, as a matter of fact, at some time to give boosters across the board or select groups, such as the elderly or those with underlying health conditions.

In a separate interview with CBS, Fauci also talked about how booster doses will be necessary in the future. Certainly, it is entirely conceivable that at some time we will need a boost, said Fauci.

Fauci says federal government will make announcement soon regarding booster doses

During his appearance on CNN, Fauci insisted that the federal government has not yet made a decision regarding the need for booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccines.

If in fact, theres a decision if and when to get boosters, then we will hear about it, he said. But it will be based on a comprehensive study, not on the announcement from a pharmaceutical company.

During his appearance on CBS, Fauci said the official and final recommendation regarding booster doses will be based on data from both laboratory and clinical studies. He added that the National Institutes of Health  the federal health research institute that Fauci also works for  is already in the process of conducting studies regarding booster doses in conjunction with the CDC and other agencies.

Fauci also claimed that the need for booster doses does not mean that the coronavirus vaccines are not effective. Addressing concerns that the vaccine has not been approved, Fauci said he would be shocked if the extraordinarily effective vaccine is not going to be approved.

Both the CDC and the FDA have come out in support of Fauci. In a joint statement, the two agencies said: We are prepared for booster doses if and when the science demonstrates that they are needed.

While it seems like the federal government wants to wait before giving people booster doses, Pfizer wants them to be distributed immediately. Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla has repeatedly claimed that his companys coronavirus vaccine will be an annual necessity like a flu shot.

Pfizer said it believes a booster dose of the companys vaccine will give people the highest levels of protection.

Learn more about the plans to give Americans third doses of the coronavirus vaccine by reading the latest articles at Vaccines.news.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

DailyCaller.com
(Natural News) Hadley Huffman of Michigan passed away unexpectedly on June 15, 2021 not long after her second covid shot. Family and friends shared their grievances on social media and we are thankful they did. There are many stories like Hadleys going untold at the moment, and it is problematic.

(Article republished from TheEmpoweror.com)

Hadley appeared to be fit and active. She was obviously [health-conscious] after having transferred from University of Arizona to be enrolled in a pre-med program at Wayne State University in Michigan. She had a bright future, and her life was taken too soon.

Hadley is said to have been a social butterfly with a magnetic personality. Her personality lit up a room. She was the type of person who had never met a stranger. She joined many causes, fought for equality, and had friends all over the world.

According to her obituary Hadley also started the Students Against Medical Racism Non-profit (SAMR) at Wayne State to bring attention to the injustices in medical access for bi-racial and people of color (BIPOC).



It is unclear what brand of vaccine Hadley was injected with but if I had to guess, I would predict that she had Pfizer due to their presence in Michigan. We do know that she had two doses and that she had hopes of things getting back to normal after her vaccination.



The timing of Hadleys death is similar to that of 13 year old Jacob Clynick, who was also from Michigan. He died in June three days after a Pfizer shot that he received from a Walgreens.

Jacob is said to have died in his sleep and had no known health issues. He was on no medication at the time of his death, according to his Aunt.

This is a developing story that I received privately today, and it will be updated as more information becomes available.



If you or a loved one have experienced any type of reaction to these unapproved covid shots, please contact me on my telegram channel so I can share your story too. Your voices deserve to be heard.

Silence, is consent.

Read more at: TheEmpoweror.com and VaccineDeaths.com.
(Natural News) Left-wing political extremist Bill Palmer has decided that not being vaccinated for the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) is a national security threat that can only be mitigated by imposing consequences on right wingers who refuse to get injected.

On his far-left Palmer Report Twitter account, Palmer argues that non-jabbed people who wish to protect their DNA from permanent damage should be locked out of public places. Only jabbed, spike protein-laden drones should be allowed to exist, according to Palmer.

Unvaccinated right wingers are a threat to national security, and the only thing they understand is consequences, an angry Palmer wrote, presenting medical fascism as the solution to his intolerance towards the unvaccinated.

Force them to get constantly tested, Palmer tweeted. Lock them out of public places. Force them to stay home by default. Theyll whine, but theyll cave.

Palmers statement piggyback on those recently made by CNN medical contributor and former Planned Parenthood head Leana Wen, a Chinese-born doctor who says that life needs to be made so difficult for the non-jabbed that they are essentially forced into compliance.

It needs to be hard for people to remain unvaccinated, she stated on CNN, arguing that people who refuse the jab should be barred from fun events and forced to get tested twice a week. Right now, its kind of the opposite.

At some point, these mandates by workplaces, by schools, I think it will be important to say, Hey, you can opt out, but if you want to opt out, you have to sign these forms, you have to get twice-weekly testing, Wen went on to state, promoting the communist Chinese tactics of her homeland as the solution to the problem of unvaccinated people still being allowed freedom in American society.

Basically, we need to make getting vaccinated the easy choice.

Leftist-communists want to eliminate your freedom of choice

If the my body, my choice crowd gets its way, there will no longer be any bodily choice when it comes to saying no to Fauci Flu shots. Chinese-born Wen and hell-spawned Palmer both want your unvaccinated life to be so difficult that you comply with their injection fetish.

These two are the real virus, the real national security threat. They are domestic enemies and medical fascist-terrorists who must be put in their place, and fast, before they destroy what remains of the Constitution and force all of America to convert to the religion of Covidism.

Last we checked, freedom of religion is still protected under the Constitution, and yet these tyrants want to marry the religion of Covidism with the government and private enterprise  so much for separation of church and state.

China Joe recently announced that he, too, is a medical fascist. The Biden regime is now sending Fauci Flu shot ambassadors to go door-to-door across America pushing their deadly injections on those who would prefer to let their own natural immune systems keep them safe against Chinese Germs.

As we shift from these centralized mass vaccination sites  were going to put even more emphasis to getting vaccinated in your community, close to home, conveniently at a location youre already familiar with, Resident Biden mumbled, barely making it through the sentence before likely chowing down on his daily pudding cup.

Its a year of hard-fought  progress. We cant get complacent. Now, the best thing you can do to protect yourself and your family and the people you care about the most is get vaccinated, Hunters dad further whispered before heading off to sniff and grope some underage girls.

More related news about the lefts Chinese Virus vaccine crusade can be found at ChemicalViolence.com.

Sources for this article include:

Tathasta.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) During times of great distress, such as amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, people often turn to religion for comfort and peace of mind. But in America, some states have issued restrictions that ban church meetings even if participants practice social distancing.

Early in July, the Capitol Hill Baptist Church (CHBC) in Washington, D.C., was awarded $220,000 after it filed a federal lawsuit that challenged the districts restrictions on gatherings at places of worship during the pandemic.

Capitol Hill Baptist Church (CHBC) leaders appealed to D.C. officials after Mayor Muriel Bowser issued restrictions on March 11 last year banning all indoor and outdoor church meetings of 100 or more, even if all participants practiced preventive measures.

How the CHBCs fight for religious freedom began

Back in October 2020, Senior Pastor Mark Dever and CHBCs elders won a preliminary injunction against Bowsers restrictions. The congregation was allowed to resume worship services outdoors as long as people practiced proper precautions, like wearing face masks and maintaining social distance.

According to a settlement between the two parties, signed on July 8 this year, Bowser and her administration have agreed to pay $220,000 to church lawyers at WilmerHale and the First Liberty Institute, a law firm based in Texas that specializes in First Amendment religious freedom litigation.

The district has agreed that it will not enforce any current or future coronavirus restrictions that may prevent CHBC from gathering as one congregation within the district. Additionally, the district said that if it imposes new restrictions on religious gatherings to curb the spread of coronavirus or its variants, they will not be more restrictive than on comparable secular activities.

The district will also cover CHBCs legal fees.

Dever, a nationally known evangelical leader, is also the founder of the 9Marks organization, a group that provides ministry and administrative resources for churches throughout the country. He has been serving at CHBC since 1994.

CHBC welcomes 850 members and the church has held worship services every Sunday since 1878.

Hiram Sasser, executive general counsel for First Liberty Institute, said that CHBC is only asking for equal treatment under the law so churchgoers can meet together safely as a congregation.

The church is relieved and grateful that this ordeal is behind them. Government officials need to know that illegal restrictions on First Amendment rights are intolerable and costly, concluded Sasser.

Easing restrictions on religious services in America

Lockdowns in America first began in March 2020 and forced religious services, such as those of Roman Catholic, Orthodox Jewish and Pentecostal congregations, to cease amid the pandemic.

But the forced closures became a point of contention after some jurisdictions imposed more severe restrictions on houses of worship compared to those placed on secular activities. (Related: London police break up Good Friday mass for supposedly violating coronavirus regulations.)

The Supreme Court also struck down several prohibitions on religious gatherings during the pandemic while several states gradually began lifting the restrictions and allowing houses of worship to open for in-person services, but only with preventive measures and modifications in place.

Back in May, Gov. Gavin Newsom was ordered by a federal judge to pay $1.35 million over Californias strict lockdown of 3,000 churches amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

As governor, Newsom was ordered to cover all the costs and attorney fees for a lawsuit brought by a Pasadena church. According to the May 14 order, Newsom and all state officials are to stop regulating church attendance unless a specific set of infection statistics occur.

Visit Pandemic.news for more updates on how churches are fighting back against religious discrimination amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

FirstLiberty.org[PDF]

MSN.com
(Natural News) A World Health Organization (WHO) spokesman recently reiterated the agencys position on ivermectin as a potential treatment for the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19), calling it not very promising.

Even though there is zero evidence to suggest that the vaccines do anything other than kill people and spread variants, the WHO is actively pushing the injections while downplaying the possible benefits of ivermectin.

The WHO decided to repeat this false message after FOX affiliate reporter Ivory Hecker got on television and announced, live on the air, that doctors are seeing positive results from administering ivermectin to their covid-positive patients, despite the medical industrys overarching rejection of its use.

Hecker was lambasted by the establishment for making this claim, even though the data suggests that ivermectin is dramatically lowering deaths rates in clinics where it is being used, including at the United Memorial Medical Center in Houston.

Dr. Joseph Varon works at this facility, and he has given some 1,600 interviews over the past year explaining how ivermectin is doing wonders to help the sick. And yet almost every (media) outlet is rejecting Dr. Varons claims, almost as if they want people to suffer and die.

According to the data, only 86 of Dr. Varons 1,293 hospitalized Chinese Virus patients died between March 2020 and May 2021, translating to a 6.7 percent death rate. This is about half of the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions (CDC) death rate of around 12.5 percent at hospitals that are doing nothing but injecting people.

We have implemented a series of treatment methods that have a very good success rate, Dr. Varon says, noting that none of the treatments he is using are endorsed or recommended by the WHO, the CDC, or any other three-letter agency.

Dr. Varon developed MATH+ treatment protocol: methylprednisolone, vitamin C, vitamin B1, and heparin

Dr. Varon is also credited with coming up with the MATH+ treatment protocol for Chinese Germs. This treatment plan involves the use of methylprednisolone, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), thiamine (vitamin B1), and the blood-thinning drug heparin.

The + refers to other additions such as ivermectin, which the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also claims is unproven and potential dangerous.

The Front Line Covid-19 Critical Care Alliance says that ivermectin is a well-known, FDA-approved anti-parasite drug that has been used successfully for more than four decades to treat parasitic diseases.

It is on the WHOs list of essential medicines  and has won the Nobel prize for its global and historic impacts in eradicating endemic parasitic infections in many parts of the world, the group further says.

Dr. Varon says that he has had fantastic success administering it to his Wuhan Flu patients, and that it is being used in some 62 trials, 32 of them being randomized controlled trials. Ivermectin is also mentioned in more than 60 peer-reviewed studies.

One study out of Australia found that ivermectin not only blocks the development of RNA viruses such as Zika, influenza, West Nile, and Avian, but also lethally attacks the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19), wiping out essentially all viral material by 48 hours.

Meta-analyses based on 18 randomized controlled treatment trials of ivermectin in COVID-19 have found large, statistically significant reductions in mortality, time to clinical recovery, and time to viral clearance, Dr. Varon says.

Even so, the WHO, the CDC, and the FDA are having none of it. These agencies would all prefer that people just roll up their sleeves and have their DNA modified with mRNA and other deadly chemicals that will create a lifetime of chronic illness and likely early death.

The latest news about Fauci Flu deception can be found at Pandemic.news.

Sources for this article include:

LifeSiteNews.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) High-tide floods have wreaked havoc on various coastal cities in the United States. These have inundated streets and homes, caused cesspools to overflow and forced businesses to close. However, a new study has warned that these high tide floods will become more frequent  thanks to the Moons gravitational pull and rising sea levels.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), high-tide floods happen when sea levels reach up to two feet above the daily average high tide. The water then starts spilling onto streets or bubbling up from storm drains. The NOAA added: As sea level rise continues, damaging floods that decades ago happened only during a storm now happen more regularly, such as during a full-moon tide or with a change in prevailing winds or currents.

The NOAA said that the U.S. experienced more than 600 high tide floods in 2019. But a study published June 2021 in Nature Climate Change warned that these floods will increase in frequency as soon as the 2030s arrive. Majority of the U.S.s coastline will see three to four times as many high-tide flood days every year for at least a decade, the study added.

The researchers who penned the study warned that these extra flood days will not be spread out evenly over the year  but are likely to cluster together over the span of just a few months. This meant that coastal areas facing just two or three floods monthly may soon experience a dozen or more. They also cautioned that the prolonged coastal flood seasons will cause major disruptions to peoples lives and livelihoods if planning for them does not start immediately.

Lead study author Phil Thompson of the University of Hawaii said in a statement: Its the accumulated effect [of the floods] over time that will have an impact. If it floods 10 or 15 times a month, a business cant keep operating with its parking lot under water. People lose their jobs because they cant get to work. Seeping cesspools become a public health issue.

The moon affecting sea levels will play a role in the increased flooding

The study authors noted two important factors that will play a role in more frequent floods come the 2030s  sea level rise and the moons orbital cycle. They cited figures by the NOAA that said global average sea levels had risen about 21 to 24 centimeters since 1880. About a third of the increases happened in the last 25 years.

The authors also mentioned the Moons contribution to tide levels through its gravitational pull. However, they remarked that the power of its pull is inconsistent from year to year. This is because of a regular wobble in the Moons orbit that takes 18.6 years to complete. While the wobble was first reported in 1728, the study pointed out its effects on the Moons gravitational pull  subsequently affecting sea levels.

The Earths regular daily tides are suppressed in half of this cycle  with high tides becoming lower and low tides becoming higher. Meanwhile, the other half of the cycle amplifies tides  resulting in high tides becoming higher and low tides becoming lower. With global sea level rises pushing tides in one direction, the Moons 18.6-year cycle either counteracts or exacerbates this effect.

Currently, the Moon is in the tide-amplifying cycle. The study authors warned that higher sea levels, amplified by the lunar cycle, will cause more flooding. They pointed out that both the East and West Coasts, Hawaii and Guam will experience more intense high tide floods. Only Alaska and other far northern coastlines will be spared for another decade or longer due to long-term geological processes, they added.

Study co-author Ben Hamlington of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) noted that the findings of their research are a vital resource for coastal urban planners. The scientist at NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory said: From a planning perspective, its important to know when well see an increase. Understanding that all your events are clustered in a particular month, or you might have more severe flooding in the second half of a year than the first  thats useful information.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson remarked: Low-lying areas near sea level are increasingly at risk and suffering due to the increased flooding, and it will only get worse. The combination of the Moons gravitational pull [and] rising sea levels  will continue to exacerbate coastal flooding on our coastlines and across the world. Thus, the study by Thompson, Hamlington and their colleagues concluded that planning for these floods should begin at the soonest.

Climate.news has more articles about how celestial bodies such as the Moon play a role in flooding.

Sources include:

LiveScience.com

TidesAndCurrents.NOAA.gov

Nature.com

NASA.gov
(Natural News) The Australian government has released a video meant to terrorize young people into complying with COVID-19 edicts, including the mandatory experimental vaccine.

(Article republished from BigLeaguePolitics.com)

They released this shocking propaganda video that is enraging individuals in the country who havent lost their souls to mass hysteria:

Even people who believe in the legitimacy of the scamdemic believe this ad has simply gone too far:

This ad should be immediately taken off air. Today in Sydney a young girl with Covid  about the same age as the actor in the ad  is on a ventilator fighting for her life. This insensitive ad can only distress her family and friends. It is misconceived in every way. @JoshButler https://t.co/9FfT9jJNDH  Bill Bowtell AO (@billbowtell) July 11, 2021

WARNING: Here is the GRAPHIC Australian Government #COVID19 ad to run in Sydney. #COVID19nsw pic.twitter.com/6IXgBy7miw  Karen Barlow (@KJBar) July 11, 2021

It should come as no surprise that this type of propaganda is being produced right as the country announces the dawning of a New World Order publicly.

The mainstream media in Australia has officially announced that they are operating under a virus regime with no bedrock freedoms or civil liberties, and they come right out and call this the new world order:

07/10/2021: Australia announces the New World Order pic.twitter.com/1d5r1VLmKJ  Pieter Christiaens (@PieterChrist) July 10, 2021

Big League Politics has reported on how the COVID-19 scamdemic is serving as the conduit for the satanic elites to rip the mass off and actually advertise their agenda for a totalitarian one-world technocracy:

The United Nations has launched a website promoting a New World Order, essentially validating what conspiracy theorists have been saying for generations.

The United Nations New World Order Project is a global, high-level initiative founded in 2008 to advance a new economic paradigm, a new political order, and more broadly, a new world order for humankind, which achieves the UNs Global Goals for Sustainable Development by 2030, and the happiness, well-being, and freedom of all life on Earth by 2050, they write on the page.

Although the NWO project has supposedly been around in an official capacity since the time Barack Hussein Obama assumed the U.S. presidency, they have rolled out their website during the coronavirus pandemic. They have a quote from a prominent globalist on their page that tells exactly what their agenda is.

A great revolution is waiting for us. The crisis doesnt only make us free to imagine other models, another future, another world. It obliges us to do so, Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy said in the quote.

The website promotes Happytalism, an economic theory devoid of substance that even a 5-year-old would have a difficult time stomaching. It is described as a New Economic System, Socio-Political Philosophy, And Human Development Paradigm Which Places The Primacy Of Happiness, Well-being, and Freedom At The Center Of Human Development And All Life.

They issued a press release pushing the project as the coronavirus pandemic took off. While fomenting mass panic worldwide, they simultaneously were calling for a global push for serenity through submitting to their New World Order.

This agenda is not limited to Australia; it is being pushed throughout the entire world as part of the Great Reset. If the people of the world do not revolt and do so soon, they could be under the yoke of Big Brother permanently before long.

Read more at: BigLeaguePolitics.com and BigGovernment.news
(Natural News) As China makes a push for herd immunity, several counties and cities in its eastern provinces of Zhejiang, Fujian and Jiangxi are planning to bar residents who havent been vaccinated against the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) from accessing public venues.

Some of these jurisdictions have set late-August deadlines for people 18 years or older to complete a two-shot vaccine regimen. Others have set dates in late July by which unvaccinated people would be barred from entering schools, libraries, prisons, nursing homes and inpatient facilities at hospitals without a valid medical exemption.

Key facilities will check whether people have been vaccinated via health codes on personal mobile phones. Alternatively, people can provide paper documentation that they have been vaccinated to avoid the ban. Places that would be off-limits to those without shots also include karaoke bars, cinemas and internet cafes.

Many localities attributed their new policies to national, provincial and municipal arrangements, without explaining whether or not they received instructions from Chinas central government.

Tao Lina, a former immunologist at the Shanghai Center for Disease Control and Prevention, said that it wouldnt be appropriate for the central government to explicitly require people to take vaccines. But he said that many more localities would enforce vaccine mandates and Beijing wouldnt stop them.

I think its perfectly reasonable to use some restrictions when it comes to public facilities for those who havent gotten vaccinated, he said.

Chinese authorities have been offering domestically produced vaccines free of charge since December last year as the country deals with sporadic outbreaks of COVID-19. More than a year after the pandemic first exploded within China, the country has kept its border restrictions mostly in place due to worries about imported cases spreading domestically.

Vaccination mandates spark online pushback and debate

News about vaccination mandates sparked online pushback from some citizens and triggered a debate about whether people should be required to present proof of vaccination to travel, work or undertake other routine activities outside their home.

It goes against the governments original pledge that vaccinations would be voluntary, wrote one user on social media site Weibo, expressing a sentiment widely repeated across the platform. A woman surnamed Wang also wrote that she opposed the policy even though she had already gotten two shots.

The vaccination mandates came after months in which Chinese authorities have tried to entice citizens to get vaccinated by offering free milk, eggs and bubble tea. One city even offers a chance to win a free night in a luxury hotel.

Some schools urged their students to get the vaccine, while ride-hailing companies such as Didi Global Inc. have required drivers to get vaccinated. At many state-owned firms, getting vaccinated is seen as an act of duty.

But many remained hesitant to take the vaccine. Some local authorities tried to ramp up vaccinations by using heavy-handed tactics. For example, the city of Wanning in the southern province of Hainan warned residents that they could be blacklisted from receiving government benefits or using public transportation if they failed to get vaccinated.

Local authorities advised to halt compulsory COVID-19 vaccinations

In April, Chinas central government advised local authorities to halt compulsory COVID-19 vaccinations as the country tried to balance the urgency of its inoculation efforts and backlash from a hesitant population.

Some areas are making the vaccination rather simplified and even mandatory for everyone. This approach must be corrected, a spokesperson for Chinas National Health Commission (NHC) said at the time.

More than 40 percent of Chinas 1.4 billion people have been fully vaccinated, putting the countrys vaccination rate nearly on par with that of the U.S., which has fully vaccinated roughly 48 percent of its population.

Surveys by universities in China and the U.S. suggest that Chinese are more accepting of COVID-19 vaccines compared with Americans. Still, some Chinese have balked at getting vaccinated because they feel the risk of infection inside China is low. Many also dont trust Chinese vaccines to be safe and effective.

Chinas homegrown COVID-19 vaccines have drawn unfavorable comparisons to Western vaccines.

The COVID-19 vaccines made by state-owned Sinopharm and private firm Sinovac Biotech Ltd. are generally considered less effective than Western-made mRNA vaccines in warding off infections, according to data published by the firms and clinical trial researchers. The spread of the Delta variant has also generated further skepticism around Chinese vaccines in recent weeks. (Related: The COVID vaccine is causing the COVID variants.)

As of press time, Chinas seven-day rolling average of new vaccinations has fallen below 11 million per day from a peak of 22 million on June 24. This is according to calculations made by the Wall Street Journal based on figures from Chinas NHC.

Follow Immunization.news for more news and information related to coronavirus vaccines.

Sources include:

WSJ.com

Bloomberg.com
(Natural News) The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) fined a passenger more than $10,000 for refusing to wear a face mask. According to a July 6 press release by the agency, said passenger refused to wear the face covering properly over his face and mouth. The passenger was one of many instances of travelers penalized by the FAA from December 2020 until February 2021.

The FAA added that the passenger boarded an Allegiant Air flight on Feb. 27 from Provo, Utah. Flight attendants instructed him seven separate times to wear his facemask properly, and each time he moved it off of his nose after the flight attendant walked away, it said.

Furthermore, the press release noted that the passenger argued with the flight attendant [and] refused to provide his identification upon being told to fill out a passenger disturbance report. The passenger added that he would continue to pull his face mask down and claimed that it was fine just over his mouth.

As soon as the flight landed in Mesa in Arizona, the passenger walked up to the same flight attendant from behind as she was about to open the door to the cabin. The passenger then touched her and asserted that she was being aggressive about the face mask policy.

The FAA noted: Federal law prohibits interfering with aircraft crew or physically assaulting or threatening to physically assault aircraft crew or anyone else on an aircraft. It added that passengers who interfere with the performance of a crew members duties by assaulting or intimidating that crew member would face criminal fines and imprisonment. As a result, the FAA fined the Allegiant Air passenger $10,500 for his actions.

The passengers $10,500 fine was one of nine penalties confirmed by the FAA in its July 6 press release. According to the administration, it received 3,271 reports of unruly passenger behavior since the start of 2021. It added that of the total reports, 2,475 stemmed from passengers who refused to follow mask mandates aboard aircraft.

The nine penalties announced in the release constituted $119,000 in total. This included one passenger who was penalized $21,500  the highest among the list  for refusing to wear a face covering, drinking alcohol on board and fighting other passengers.

Mask up and obey, even when eating

The FAA reiterated a May 14 announcement by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Department of Transportation. According to the announcement, masks are still required on planes, buses, trains and other forms of transportation. (Related: Federal mask mandate still in effect on public transportation until Sep. 13.)

The mandate applied to trips going to, within or coming from the U.S. Furthermore, the announcement by the three agencies said that masks are also required in transportation hubs such as airports and bus stations.

The TSA later issued guidelines saying that airline passengers can remove masks when eating, drinking or taking medications. However, it clarified that they cannot go maskless for prolonged periods and must cover up in between bites and sips.

However, this was not the case when a passenger was removed from a Southwest Airlines flight in April 2021. Avi Mandel of Baltimore County in Maryland claimed that he was kicked out of a plane bound for Florida because he was not wearing a mask in between bites while eating. Mandel, who was a frequent Southwest flyer, lamented the airlines treatment of him as absurd and unfair. (Related: Man kicked off Southwest Airlines flight for not wearing a mask WHILE EATING candy.)

According to Mandel, he was waiting for his flight to take off when the incident happened. He opened a pack of Twizzlers candy to snack on while waiting, at which point a flight attendant approached him and told him to put his mask on. Mandel said the flight attendant, unaware that he was eating candy, immediately ran away.

A loudspeaker announcement then followed, reiterating that everyone whos eating has to wear masks in between bites. Mandel did not think much of the announcement that time, until the plane returned to the terminal and a security team escorted him off the aircraft. Despite remaining calm and having other passengers stand up for him, the embarrassing situation left Mandel with no choice but to leave.

Mandel later got in touch with Southwest over the incident. According to an email from the airline, a new federal mask mandate requiring passengers to mask up in between bites went into effect during the time he was kicked out. He said: If I knew this rule ahead of time, I would have happily listened, but I had no clue.

Visit MedicalTyranny.com for more news about travelers being penalized for refusing to mask up.

Sources include:

TheHill.com

FAA.gov

Baltimore.CBSLocal.com
(Natural News) A new report by a nonprofit organization found that fracking operations in the Gulf of Mexico threatened both wildlife and human health. The July 7 report by the Center for Biological Diversity (CBD) indicated that oil and gas companies had dumped more than 60 million gallons of fracking fluids into the Gulf between 2010 and 2020. It also noted that the dumping was performed with government approval.

In the past decade, the Gulf saw a fracking boom in its waters. Around 98 percent of all the offshore oil and gas produced in the U.S. came from fracking operations in the waters off Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas. The federal government also approved at least 3,039 incidences of fracking and at least 760 incidences of acidizing in the area since 2010.

CBD used scientific studies and federal reports obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request to draft its July 7 report. The sources it cited revealed the extent of industrial pollution and the federal governments role in allowing it. The federal government allows oil companies to dump produced wastewater, including fracking and acidizing chemicals, into the Gulf without limit, the report authors wrote.

Fracking involves water and chemicals being blasted into the seafloor to release oil and gas. On the other hand, acidizing makes use of hydrofluoric and hydrochloric acid to carve channels in the rock. Fossil fuels then flow out through these channels.

According to the report, chemicals used in fracking and acidizing can harm both animals in humans. Laboratory tests showed that these chemicals can kill marine life, in concentrations equal to the ones near fracking platforms. These chemicals have also been found to cause damage to the reproductive system, cancer and death. (Related: Fracking chemicals found to cause changes in breast tissue.)

Furthermore, the report said that the oil and gas industry self-reported fracking products that contained dangerous chemicals. It continued that 29 of these chemicals were known or possible human carcinogens, regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act for their risks to human health or listed as hazardous pollutants under the Clean Air Act.

The report called on the federal government to do something about fracking

CBD Oceans Director Miyoko Sakashita said in a July 7 press release: Offshore fracking threatens Gulf communities and wildlife far more than our government has acknowledged. To protect life and our climate, we should ban these extreme extraction techniques. A decade into the offshore fracking boom, officials still havent properly studied its public health impacts. The failure to curb this major source of pollution is astounding and unacceptable.

The CBD report pointed out that offshore fracking and other extreme oil extraction techniques are inherently dangerous as they threaten the Gulf of Mexicos ecosystem and communities. Bold leadership is needed to move quickly to end the use of offshore fracking and acidizing, it noted.

It called on state and federal agencies to prohibit the use of fracking and acidizing. It also urged the agencies to stop issuing permits for these operations and ban the discharge of toxic chemicals into the Gulf of Mexicos waters. (Related: Fracking wastewater found to contaminate lakes.)

Furthermore, CBD also called on Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland to address the fracking problem. The report suggested that Haaland create a program that restores, supports and protects communities and workers affected by offshore oil and gas development. It added that as part of the program, Haaland should examine the effects of offshore fracking on the Gulfs wildlife and communities primarily affected by the oil industry.

The CBD report noted that in developing the program, Haaland should establish a task force that consults with communities affected by fracking operations. Doing so would be consistent with the policy of this administration to create well-paying jobs, deliver environmental justice and hold polluters accountable for their actions, the report said.

Fracking.news has more articles about the environmental dangers of fracking and acidizing to extract oil.

Sources include:

EcoWatch.com

BiologicalDiversity.org 1 [PDF]

BiologicalDiversity.org 2
(Natural News) In order for citizens of France to enter the new normal, they must get vaccinated for the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19), insists French President Emmanuel Macron.

In a recent announcement, Macron outlined his plan for the new world order in France, which will require that all residents receive an injection for the Fauci Flu in order to shop, drink at bars, dine at restaurants, travel, or worship.

Pretty much no part of French life will be accessible to anyone who has not received this mark of the beast, proof of which will have to be shown before a person is allowed inside a grocery store or aboard an airplane.

French citizens will need to show a sanitary pass, which shows that their bodies are clean thanks to the vaccine, in order to gain entry into virtually anywhere outside of their own homes, including their workplaces.

Basically, its going to be in all kinds of social activities, be it going to the movie theater, a theater, a restaurant, a bar, a concert hall, and all the rest, explained Marc Perelman, France 24s French Politics Editor, during a recent television segment on Macrons announcement.

And the employees of those places will also need to get this sanitary pass, Perelman added, revealing that Macron wants to shift the burden onto the unvaccinated as a form of punishment for their non-compliance with his directive.

Is the Biden regime conspiring with Macron to attempt similar mandates in the U.S.?

There is some speculation that perhaps China Joe will attempt something similar here in the United States, though that will immediately activate the right of Americans under the Second Amendment to protect themselves from their enemies, both foreign and domestic.

The Charles Rivkin Project says that the U.S. State Department is conspiring with the French government on cultural and social issues as they relate to orders coming down from the government.

It is believed that closed-door meetings are taking place to discuss strategies for implementing a mandatory injection system else, and that France is the testing ground for this mass genocide endeavor.

Despite the wide social differences, at their core French nationalists are close in ideological alignment to Americans, reports The Conservative Treehouse. France is one of the few states left in Western Europe with the remnant of a national consciousness.

Keep a close eye on this  it would not surprise me to see the U.S. government watching the French public reaction to gauge whether they too can begin a similar dictate.

They can try, but the response will not be pretty. There is a reason why Americas founding fathers enshrined the right to bear arms within our Constitution, and it was precisely for such a time as this if necessary to thwart an attempt by rogue politicians to forcibly penetrate peoples bodies against their will.

There is zero evidence to suggest that Chinese Virus jabs do anything other than kill people, and yet government overlords feel as though they are entitled to dictate that everyone take them or else be restricted from participating in society.

I realize theyve been pushing, and pushing, and pushing us into a hot civil war  that is their goal, wrote one commenter at The Conservative Treehouse. They are hoping to light the match, and they keep trying, and we keep holding our tempers.

I refuse to give in to this warmongering regime. I will stand my ground. God help them. Please believe this in the core of your souls. There are more of us than them. They arent going to win this. God is on our side. Walk in confidence, not fear. We are not slaves. We are free people  walk in that.

Forcing people to get injected with a foreign substance against their will is a form of medical rape. To learn more, visit ChemicalViolence.com.

Sources for this article include:

TheConservativeTreehouse.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) McDonalds franchisees across the U.S. are adding emergency child care and other new benefits to help keep current employees and attract new ones as many restaurants continue to struggle to hire enough workers to run their businesses.

Caregiver benefits have become popular among companies during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic as employers seek to compete in a tight labor market.

The company is also aiming to boost hourly pay, give workers paid time off and help cover tuition costs. A company spokesperson told CBS News in an email that the move not only helps restaurant employees but also helps the company attract and retain talent.

Golden Arches, the corporate parent of McDonalds, is making a multimillion-dollar investment to back the efforts of franchisees who own 95 percent of the chains roughly 13,450 stores nationwide.

Workers are leaving restaurant industry

Many restaurant workers left the industry last year for other jobs. The rate of restaurant and hotel workers leaving their jobs hit a two-decade high in April and remained there in May, according to the Department of Labor.

Lack of workers has emerged as one of the biggest challenges to the economys post-pandemic rebound, particularly in service-heavy businesses. (Related: McDonalds to test run AI-powered drive-thru windows that dont need employees to take orders.)

Over the past year, restaurants made some of the largest layoffs as COVID-19 prompted shutdowns and restrictions. Now that industries around the country have resumed full operations, restaurants are struggling to keep up with demand. Restaurant and bar employment remains 1.3 million workers lower than before the start of the pandemic while other sectors have nearly returned to full employment.

With around 800,000 people working in the chains restaurants, McDonalds is one of the largest private employers in the country. It is closely watched by others in the industry for its moves on pay.

In May, McDonalds announced that it would bump up starting pay in its corporate-owned restaurants from $11 to $17 an hour and said it would keep assessing wages to be competitive.

McDonalds franchisees last year began evaluating the pay and benefits that operators currently provide workers to figure out what may need improvement. More than 5,000 workers and managers participated as owners surveyed current McDonalds restaurant employees about what theyd like to see in compensation.

Franchisees found that McDonalds employees gave priority to a range of possible additional benefits, spanning enhanced pay to more workplace flexibility.

After discussions throughout the year, franchisee leaders last month agreed to help boost training, workplace flexibility, pay and benefits across markets. Individual restaurants are now adopting the employee program, such as a Denver operator who is spending more than a million dollars on wage increases.

Major restaurant chains trying to keep workers happy

McDonalds efforts are part of the restaurant industrys broader battle for workers in an economy short on labor. A number of restaurant companies are trying to understand what it will take to lure back workers.

Chipotle Mexican Grill conducted a survey of market wages before announcing last month it would boost starting pay to an average of $15 an hour, chain executives said. Shake Shack executives said they raised hourly wages at more than half of their restaurants across the country this year and are reviewing compensation frequently to keep it competitive.

Major restaurant chains are doing everything they can to keep their workers happy. (Related: Manhattan restaurant forced to close as owner cant find workers.)

Earlier this month, Papa Johns announced new hiring, referral and retention bonuses for restaurant workers at its company-owned locations. Corporate workers will earn an extra $50 for every new worker they bring into the fold, while the new hires will also earn $50. Existing employees are also eligible for up to $400 in appreciation bonuses paid in increments for the rest of the year.

In late March, Darden Restaurants announced that every hourly worker across its portfolio of restaurants will earn at least $10 an hour, including tip income.

Asian-inspired restaurant chain P.F. Changs is offering referral bonuses. It is also taking steps to improve the work-life balance for its workforce. The company gave its employees the Fourth of July off so they could spend the day relaxing and enjoying the holiday. Despite these efforts, the privately held company still has about 2,000 unfilled job openings across its footprint.

Follow Pandemic.news for more news and information related to the coronavirus pandemic.

Sources include:

WSJ.com

CNBC.com 1

CNBC.com 2
(Natural News) The latest data from EudraVigilance, a European Union database similar to VAERS (Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System), shows that nearly 20,000 people have died from Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) vaccines in the areas of Europe it assesses, along with nearly two million people who have been seriously injured by the injections.

EudraVigilance covers 27 of Europes 50 countries, which suggests that the true figures across the continent could be as high as 40,000 deaths and four million serious injuries. This is substantial, considering far fewer people are getting sick or dying from the Chinese Virus itself.

Seriousness provides information on the suspected undesirable effect; it can be classified as serious if it corresponds to a medical occurrence that results in death, is life-threatening, requires inpatient hospitalisation, results in another medically important condition, or prolongation of existing hospitalisation, results in persistent or significant disability or incapacity, or is a congenital anomaly / birth defect, the database explains about how injuries are measured.

The latest figures are much higher than earlier ones we reported on back in May, which reported about 10,000 deaths and 400,000 injuries.

So many people are getting injured or dying from Fauci Flu shots that reports indicate there is widespread vaccine regret across Europe and North America. People who lined up to flatten the curve through injection are saying they wish they would have listened to real scientists as opposed to television phonies like Tony Fauci.

There is also a trend of family doctors refusing to see their covid vaccine-injured patients because they do not know what to do for them. Such reports are coming out of both Scotland and England.

My vaccinated friends are not getting appointments with their family doctors who are avoiding them post vaccination even although there are no patients in the GP surgery waiting rooms when they have tried to get appointments, one person reported.

It is utterly cruel given they talked them into getting the vaccinations and accepted 10 U.K. pounds from the Scottish and English governments per person vaccinated on their patient list and did not disclose the risk of these vaccinations to the patients.

Doctors now refusing to see vaccine-injured patients

Another person in Europe who was supposed to get a surgery was refused by her GP (general practitioner). Nurses also refused to take blood draws because they say they are not allowed to try to investigate what went wrong due to vaccination.

In another instance, a hospital consultant phoned a friends GP requesting that she see a patient who reported getting a Pfizer injection and feeling like it was acid going into my veins.

Her GP treated her with disdain and was not pleased to see her, and my friend also tells me that every time she walks now post-vaccination her heart races and her son has been unwell post vaccination, too.

On and on they go with report after report of vaccine-injured people being left to themselves to try to figure things out. The system was, of course, never intended to handle this wave of strange illnesses and deaths, so its natural reaction is to shun the problem people who are now suffering the consequences of these experimental medicines.

All I can say is there were warnings from top people in the field who were reporting not to get it from the beginning, wrote one commenter at Health Impact News about how the truth was out there all along concerning these deadly injections.

You will find an extensive list of known injuries and deaths caused by Chinese Virus injections at this link.

More related news about injuries and deaths caused by Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) vaccines can be found at ChemicalViolence.com.

Sources for this article include:

HealthImpactNews.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) While we werent looking, South Africa, which has actually been teetering on the edge of unrest and instability for years now, has completely fallen over the edge and is now descending into the kind of chaos Americans experienced throughout 2020 in the form of riots and will experience again soon when patriots are pushed to the bring by the fascist Biden regime.

Following days of unrest and riots, South Africas largest oil refinery, which is responsible for producing more than one-third of the countrys fossil fuel energy needs, has shut down citing uncertainty and the countrys security apparatus being unable to keep the facility from being overrun.

Bloomberg News reports:

South Africas biggest oil refinery, a joint venture between Royal Dutch Shell Plc and BP Plc known as Sapref, shut down because of safety concerns and logistical issues.

The 180,000 barrel-a-day facility was closed due to the ongoing civil unrest and disruption of delivery and supply routes in and out of the KwaZulu-Natal Province, the company said in an emailed response to questions.

This decision was taken after careful consideration of risks involved including the safety of our people, the email continued, noting that the plant could not even be guaranteed a supply of oil to process.

The shutdown comes on the heels of other reports noting that the countrys largest food distribution warehouse, like so many businesses and malls, has also been looted and completely drained.

VALUE TRUCKS National warehouse situated in KZN, the biggest food distribution centre in Africa and RSA is being looted to the bone by thousands of looters. This is the central nerve centre for bulk food distribution in KZN supplying Shoprite, Checkers, Woolworths, SPAR [a]nd Game, a local journalist reported via Twitter.

This means not only retail but even the bulk supply food channels are being destroyed in KZN. There will be starvation and famine in KZN as early as next week. Shops that are open are running out of stock, due to panic buying. They cannot be restocked, the journalist continued, using the acronym for KwaZulu-Natal-Natal province.

This is going to be the biggest food crisis in Africa since the Ethiopian Famine since 1984. There is no bread, meat, milk, petrol and other essential supplies in most parts of Durban. KZN is literally burning to the ground, he continued.

In other words, whats happening in South Africa is a total collapse which will lead to anarchy, mass death, and the collapse of a country that once managed to build its own nuclear weapons without the world ever knowing about it.

But if South Africa becomes weakened and a shell of itself, there will likely be tribal warfare from within the country and from outside, as old scores are settled. South Africas Zulu population has never liked the African National Congress Party (ANC), and the tensions between the two factions have been building for years. Also, in more recent times, attacks and murders by blacks again minority whites have also accelerated.

SAs current population level can only be sustained via modern agriculture & industrial logistics infrastructure. Theyre destroying both. Famine is guaranteed, and on a greater scale than Zimbabwe, wrote another observer.

As of this writing, the violence is already ramping up; CBS News reports that at least 72 people have already been killed, and the countrys police and military thus far seem incapable of ending the mayhem.

Some of the most violent unrest has been in Alexandra township, a suburb of Johannesburg, where CBS News correspondent Debora Patta said hordes of looters have spent days ransacking retail stores, grabbing anything they can get their hands on. Outnumbered and overwhelmed, the police have struggled to contain the violence, the network reported.

And, in a prelude to what will happen in America when the left-wing anarchists come around again, CBS News added: Over 1,000 arrests have been made, and the South African military has been deployed to hot spots. But thrown into the volatile mix now, are armed militias, taking the law into their own hands.

Sources include:

CBSNews.com

Bloomberg.com

FoodCollapse.news
(Natural News) This crisis has been entirely engineered by globalists, and its all part of the chaos that they want to see erupt all over the world. Largely due to loss of jobs, food scarcity and lockdown tyranny, the impoverished South African citizens are rising up to lash out in anger. As is often the case, they are irrationally over-reacting, now burning down the very infrastructure that might provide them with food, electricity and fuel for years to come.

This is all by design. And the situation is rapidly imploding into a failed state or a civil war, depending on whom you ask.

There are key realizations you need to grasp about whats happening in South Africa:

This engineered chaos is coming to America and other Western nations soon, for many of the same reasons. The destruction of infrastructure will lead to long-term destitution, famine, collapse and war. The police are overrun and out of ammunition. They are largely helpless against the looting masses. Only civilian security forces (i.e. militias) are providing effective safety and security for residential communities. Food is extremely scarce. Mass famine has already begun. Those who did not prep in advance may die. Gun control means you DIE, because only those with firearms are able to defend themselves and stop the looting mobs.

 I cover many more critical realizations in todays Situation Update podcast, below.

Globalists are deliberately plunging the world into chaos, civil unrest and collapse

What we are all watching here  in South Africa, Cuba, France, Beirut and other places  is globalist-created chaos that they hope will end in total collapse and worldwide depopulation. And this is only the beginning.

With door-to-door vaccine strike force teams now demanding everyone consent to medical tyranny, depopulation via bioweapons is in full force. This already means, according to prominent, outspoken doctors, that as many as 92 million Americans may perish from the vaccine over the next few years. (Thats because the CDC says 184 million Americans have already been injected with at least one dose, and doctors are saying the majority of those people will eventually die from the vaccine.)

It raises the obvious question: How will Americas infrastructure continue to function if 92 million people are killed by the vaccine?

And then theres the planned economic collapse, the provoked race war, engineered food scarcity and mass starvation, etc.

If America emerges from all this by 2025 with fewer than 50 million people dead, it will be nothing short of a miracle.

And much the same scenario is playing out in Canada, Australia, New Zealand and all across Europe as well.

The globalist war on humanity is in full swing. Have no illusions about where we are now in the tipping point of history.

I discuss much more about all this in todays Situation Update podcast:

Brighteon.com/73d93eea-00b4-402a-bdfe-89b079343240

Find a new podcast each weekday at:

https://www.brighteon.com/channels/hrreport
(Natural News) The jailing of former South African president Jacob Zuma has led to widespread protests and civil unrest throughout that country, which is hitting sugar cane and citrus exports hard and creating food shortages.

Looters have been pillaging trucks carrying produce and other goods while cane trucks are being hijacked, mills threatened, and farms set ablaze by arsonists. The chaos is preventing food from getting to market as well as interfering with exports.

Farmers have already had major losses because they cannot get their products to local markets and to shops, says Christo van der Rheede, executive director of AgriSA, South Africas main agricultural body.

One AgriSA farmer has already reported losing more than $206 million worth of perishable produce that simply could not be transported to its destination. Many area sugar cane farms are also being destroyed by rioters.

Around 300,000 tons of cane to date have been burnt, says Thomas Funke, the chief executive of South African Canegrowers. This is roughly R180 million (roughly $12.38 million) of grower revenue.

Kwazulu-Natal, the main sugar-growing area of South Africa and one of the hardest-hit provinces in the country, saw all of its sugar mills closed after rioters began to destroy the means of production and transport, as well as the product itself.

Sugar producer Tongaat Hulett also reported that its mills and refinery have been closed due to the chaos, which has seen rioters clashing with police as they sow discord in the streets, loot shopping malls, and even kill people over Zumas jailing.

South Africa is the worlds second-largest exporter of citrus, and much of it cant get to port

Citrus Growers Association chief executive Justin Chadwick told the media that citrus exports out of South Africa have had to be halted because the main arterial roads that the delivery trucks use to get products to port are now closed due to protests.

The Durban port is where more than half of South Africas citrus is exported. South Africa is the worlds second-largest exporter of fresh citrus behind Spain, which is number one.

Cyril Ramaphosa, South Africas current president, warned that continued disruption to these vital supply chains could lead to shortages of both food and medicine in the coming weeks.

The impact of the disruption is already being seen in Durban, where grocery store lines are growing  at least at stores that are still open. Many of them have had to close their doors due to both unrest and panic buying, which is exacerbating the problem.

All the shops are closed, lamented Neli Zulu, a resident of Pietermaritzburg, an area that is being heavily impacted by the unrest. We are going to run out of bread soon.

As you may recall from last year, protesters gathered in a much more civil way to speak out against the countrys mask mandates.

During their demonstrations, they burned face masks in the street to show that they would not be going along with the medical fascism dictates that came from the likes of Tony Fauci before quickly spreading around the world.

According to reports, Zuma was jailed over an alleged corruption scandal that resulted in his resignation, followed by an investigation that led to him spending 15 months in prison.

The situation was worsened when the Fauci Virus emerged out of nowhere, sending South Africa into an economic tailspin that drove up poverty while further enriching the wealthy  sound familiar? Consequently, unrest is reaching a fever pitch there due to numerous coinciding factors.

More related news about civil unrest in South Africa can be found at FoodCollapse.com

Sources for this article include:

News24.com

NaturalNews.com

Archive.is
(Natural News) Cuba has been ruled with iron-fisted Communism since Fidel Castro overthrew the elected government of the Caribbean island and instituted his revolution.

After he passed away a few years ago, his brother, Raul, took over, and in April, after he retired, he was replaced by the ruling Communist Party hierarchy with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel. The people dont get a say; the government tells the people whos going to rule, and the ruler then decides how.

This week, though, Cubans fed up with endless cycles of poverty, despair, and lack of opportunity took to the streets in rare displays of angst and outrage. While there, many waived Cuban banners and flags while shouting Liberty! and chanting phrases of freedom. Some even sported American flags, because they understand that America was at least founded on the kind of freedom they can only dream about.

But what was the Biden regimes first response? Was it to embrace this movement of liberty? Was it to call on the Cuban government to step down and allow the people to elect their own leaders?

No. It was to purposely mislead Americans into thinking that Cubans are merely ticked off about COVID-19.

Peaceful protests are growing in #Cuba as the Cuban people exercise their right to peaceful assembly to express concern about rising COVID cases/deaths & medicine shortages, Julie Chung, the Acting Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, wrote on Twitter Sunday.

Wow; how moronic.

Needless to say, her observation was quickly set upon by Republicans and administration critics for being about 1,000 percent wrong.

Its now almost 10 p.m. Eastern Time. Its now been over 12 hours since over 32 cities in Cuba, brave people, have taken to the streets to protest against Communist, Marxist evil tyranny, Rubio said in a video clip he uploaded to Twitter hours after the protests began in the country his parents escaped.

This is not just about COVID, Rubio continued. Of course, COVID has a role to play, but this began well before COVID. These people are frustrated. They want to live in a normal country. They dont want to have their kids getting on rafts and having to leave the country in order to lead normal lives, Rubio continued.

This is a ridiculous tweet from @StateDept People in #Cuba are protesting 62 years of socialism, lies,tyranny & misery not expressing concern about rising COVID cases/deaths Why is it so hard for @potus & the people in his administration to say that? #SOSCuba #PatriaYVida https://t.co/vLt8SCUXeK pic.twitter.com/gP0KapjvnQ  Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) July 12, 2021

So why cant the State Department, why cant the White House just say it clearly? This is not about COVID, this is not about anything else. This is about freedom. Say it, Rubio added.

Are you serious!? Theyre protesting a corrupt communist regime! They want freedom. Its not about COVID. You are embarrassing, Christina Pushaw, the press secretary for Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, wrote on her personal Twitter account.

They are really doing it, guys, conservative commentator and author Candace Owens noted as well. Joe Bidens filthy administrationwhich is working with China to bring communism to Americais pretending the eruption in Cuba is over Covid-19 and not over the EVIL communist regime. She added: Do not forget this moment.

Its not COVID, its communism, wrote Buzz Patterson, a former Air Force pilot running for a U.S. House seat in California next year.

Is this a parody account? asked Florida state Rep. Anthony Sabatini, who is running for a U.S. House seat in next years midterm elections.

Eventually, whoevers really running Bidens administration typed up a response and attached his name to it.

We stand with the Cuban people and their clarion call for freedom and relief from the tragic grip of the pandemic and from the decades of repression and economic suffering to which they have been subjected by Cubas authoritarian regime, the president said the following morning.

The Cuban people are bravely asserting fundamental and universal rights. Those rights, including the right of peaceful protest and the right to freely determine their own future, must be respected. The United States calls on the Cuban regime to hear their people and serve their needs at this vital moment rather than enriching themselves, the statement continued.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Tesla Energy launched its latest initiative in Texas  a neighborhood powered by solar energy. It tied up with Brookfield Asset Management and Dacra to build the provisionally named SunHouse at Easton Park in Austin. In a July 9 press release, Tesla touted the development as the first Tesla Solar neighborhood and the nations most sustainable residential community.

The company said its state-of-the-art sustainable features will be installed in phases to allow for ongoing learning and innovation. It added that Tesla V3 solar roof tiles and Powerwall 2 battery storage systems will be installed in phases at homes in the SunHouse community. The homes will be built on land in Brookfield Residentials Easton Park community, the press release noted.

The first phase of installation began in June, with a number of houses getting solar panels and batteries. The statement said these initial installations will provide insight and information on product integration and guide the next phase  involving more homes.

It elaborated that the final phase will center on a master-planned community of homes. The goal is to establish an energy-neutral sustainable community and a model for the design and construction of sustainable large-scale housing projects around the world, the statement said.

The press release noted that Teslas involvement does not end after the solar panels and batteries are installed. It said that Tesla Solar will provide ongoing oversight of homes energy systems. It elaborated that Brookfield will also incorporate a suite of technology features such as electric vehicle stations in each home and throughout the community. Furthermore, the statement added that Brookfield will also integrate a community-wide solar program to serve broader public use needs and surrounding neighborhoods.

SunHouse residents and the larger metropolitan area of Austin will benefit from the development. Residents will be able to produce enough energy for their daily needs, reducing the demand on the larger grid. The Tesla Powerwall installed in their homes will serve as backup power storage in case of a blackout. They will also have the chance to receive compensation for contributing to the larger energy grid.

Teslas announcement followed criticism of its solar panels becoming more expensive

Tesla CEO Elon Musk said: Neighborhood solar installations across all housing types will reshape how people live. Brookfield and Dacras commitment to stay at the vanguard of that evolution is what makes them the right collaborator for Tesla Energy. The feedback we get from the solar and battery products used in this community will impact how we develop and launch new products.

Brookfield Real Estate Group CEO Brian Kingston said: As consumers increasingly seek out energy security alongside sustainable places to live, combining Teslas solar technology with Brookfields real estate and renewables development capabilities will help us meet the demand for environmentally responsible communities of the future.

Dacra CEO Craig Robins also added: Our goal is to establish that fully sustainable neighborhoods are not only viable, but the best practical and economical choice. Together with Brookfield and Tesla, we are trying to change the world by creating technology-driven, energy-independent communities that make the world a better place.

The three companies said they will work together over the next 12 months to introduce additional transportation, technology and energy solutions to SunHouse at Easton Park. Meanwhile, Austin Mayor Steve Adler welcomed the development warmly.

Adler said: The city of Austin is excited for the arrival of these affordable options to housing powered by renewable energy. I am excited for the Tesla, Brookfield and Dacra partnerships approach to sustainable energy and housing as an example of the out-of-the-box thinking that continues to make our community a beacon of innovation.

But as the city of Austin was excited about the Tesla solar development, some Tesla customers were dissatisfied with its other solar product. Individuals in California and some states on the East Coast sued the company over unexpected and steep price hikes for its Solar Roof product. A May 2021 report by Bloomberg said the complaint was filed May 17 in federal court in Northern California.

The complaint accused Tesla of substantially increasing the Solar Roofs cost  up to more than 50 percent in some cases  after buyers had already committed to expensive preparation work. After completing the sales agreements, and while the consumers have been making plans for the installation, in classic bait-and-switch fashion, Tesla is now informing these customers they must pay upwards of a 50 percent price hike  if they want to proceed with the installation, it said.

The complaint added that people who do not pay the surcharge may risk losing their place in line for installation. This is nothing short of a deceptive and unfair scheme, it concluded.

Visit SolarPanels.news to read more about solar energy developments in Texas.

Sources include:

FOX5NY.com

BAM.Brookfield.com

Bloomberg.com
Climate Change is the Reason for our Heat Wave; Climatologist and State Leaders Say How Its Affected WA
RIO DE JANEIRO (AP)  After 10 straight days of hiccups, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro was admitted to a hospital Wednesday with an intestinal obstruction, but doctors said they would not operate immediately.

Bolsonaro, 66, was admitted to the Armed Forces Hospital in the capital of Brasilia in the morning and was feeling well, according to an initial statement that said physicians were examining his persistent hiccups.

But hours later, the president's office said the surgeon who operated on Bolsonaro after he was stabbed in the abdomen during the 2018 presidential campaign decided to transfer him to Sao Paulo, where he underwent additional tests. By Wednesday night, the Hospital Nova Star released a statement saying the president would receive a conservative clinical treatment, meaning he will not go through surgery for now.

Bolsonaro, who is both Catholic and evangelical, posted on his official Twitter account a photo of himself lying on a hospital bed, eyes closed, several monitoring sensors stuck to his bare torso. At the edge of the photo, a hand reaches out from an unseen person wearing what appears to be a black religious robe and a long chain with a gold cross.

The 2018 stabbing caused intestinal damage and serious internal bleeding and the president has gone through several surgeries since, some unrelated to the attack.

In recent weeks, Bolsonaro has appeared to struggle with speaking on various occasions and said that he suffers from recurring hiccups.

I apologize to everyone who is listening to me, because Ive been hiccupping for five days now, the president said in an interview with Radio Guaiba on July 7. He suggested that some medications prescribed after dental surgery might be the cause. "I have the hiccups 24 hours a day.

The following day, during his weekly Facebook Live session, Bolsonaro apologized again for not being able to express himself well due to the weeklong hiccups.

Chronic hiccups are usually the manifestation of an underlying problem, such as an obstructed intestine, that might require surgery, said Dr. Anthony Lembo, a gastroenterologist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. In some cases, part of the intestine might need to be removed, he said.

Any time youre moving bowels, its not a small surgery, Lembo said, adding that in the case of repeated surgeries, as in Bolsonaros case, interventions get more complicated.

Bolsonaro has been under growing pressure from a congressional inquiry into his administration's handling of the coronavirus pandemic and alleged corruption in the acquisition of COVID-19 vaccines. Recent polls have shown record-low approval ratings and indications that he could lose next years election.

On Tuesday night, in a 20-minute encounter with the president in Brasilia, supporters repeatedly asked him to look after his health.

____ Associated Press journalist Mauricio Savarese contributed to this report.
BARCELONA, Spain (AP)  Barcelona and the surrounding northeast corner of Spain are curtailing public activity again to stem an outbreak of the delta variant of the coronavirus that is running wild among unvaccinated younger people and placing hospitals under growing pressure.

Regional authorities in Catalonia were waiting for a judge to sign off on restoring a nightly curfew in towns with populations over 5,000 which surpass the rate of 400 infections per 100,000 inhabitants over 14 days. The curfew is intended to discourage social gatherings where the virus spreads.

The more infectious delta variant is pushing infections back up in Spain and other European countries where vaccination efforts are going well and the public healthcare systems are robust. But Catalonia has an infection rate double Spain's national average, with over 1,000 cases per 100,000 inhabitants over 14 days.

Health director Josep Maria Argimon said the situation is very bad, with more than 8,000 new cases officially reported a day in the region of 7.5 million people. Catalonia is currently one of the hardest hit areas of Europe; only the Mediterranean island nation of Cyprus is worse off, according to the European Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Catalan authorities said they are canceling health workers days off this weekend because the number of intensive care beds occupied by COVID-19 patients is expected to surpass 300, from 237 on Wednesday.

Scenes of revelry became common in many of Spains cities once the government lifted a six-month nighttime curfew in early May. The government had hoped to give some relief to businesses and send the message abroad that Spain was open again for its all-important summer tourist season.

At that time, Spains rate of new cases had fallen under 200 per 100,000 over 14 days. Two months later it is over 450 and rising. Infections among young adults in Catalonia are particularly worrying; the 20-29 age group is posting a 14-day rate of more than 3,300 infections per 100,000 inhabitants.

It all started with the end of school, which had served as a safe place where sanitary measures worked well. And then we saw a series of trips of students to celebrate the end of the school year and other festivities, and that was the start, Catalan health official Carmen Cabezas said. That, combined with the arrival of the delta variant,made for a perfect storm.

Authorities in Catalonia are rolling out several measure to combat the outbreak. Mobile vaccination units are targeting areas with lower vaccination rates. The government will start offering free antigen tests to parents of children ages 10-16 who are attending summer camps. The upscale beach town of Sitges is trying out drones to monitor the occupancy of its beaches.

But most of all, Spain is counting on getting its young people vaccinated. After meticulously working down from the oldest to youngest age groups, health officials recently opened up vaccination slots for anyone over 16.

___

Barry Hatton contributed to this report from Lisbon, Portugal.

___

Follow all AP coverage of the coronavirus pandemic at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic
BOSTON (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month.

The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Massachusetts:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Massachusetts is one of several states that enacted a moratorium last year halting eviction proceedings due to the pandemic. The states pause on evictions expired on October 17, 2020, at which point the CDC moratorium became effective in Massachusetts. A bill signed into law by Republican Gov. Charlie Baker earlier this month also aims to help prevent evictions in cases where tenants are unable to pay rent due to COVID-19-related financial hardship until April, 2022.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

When the state moratorium on evictions and foreclosures expired, Gov. Charlie Baker outlined a $171 million plan to increase rental assistance and help landlords negotiate with tenants. While much of that money has been spent, an additional nearly $440 million in federal money was set aside in December for rental assistance in Massachusetts and more was expected through the American Rescue Plan Act. Much of the federal aid remains.

The new law signed by Baker this month also includes provisions aimed at helping tenants facing possible eviction understand their legal options. The law requires that landlords notifying tenants to leave a dwelling for nonpayment of rent also provide a form explaining the notice is not the same as an eviction and that tenants don't immediately have to leave the unit.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

The same law signed by Baker this month also includes protections for tenants in court. The law continues hardship protections to those facing eviction by continuing the court practice of offering temporary continuances to tenants who have filed applications for rental assistance. The law also requires that the form landlords must give to tenants when they notify them to leave because of nonpayment of rent must also include information on rental assistance programs, trial court rules and relevant federal or state legal restrictions on residential evictions.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Massachusetts has long had one of the countrys tightest rental housing markets, driven in part by a strong economy and a shortage of affordable housing, although the pandemic put a dent in rising rents at a time when a vast numbers of college students stayed home to take classes remotely. As of May, the median monthly rent in the Boston-Cambridge-Newton area had fallen 3.8% over the last year to $2,400, according to a report released June 16 by Realtor.com. Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment was $2,650. The report found that Boston was just one of two metro areas  along with Seattle  where rents need another 5% to 6% to reach the previous peaks.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

It isnt clear how much homelessness will increase in Massachusetts. One indication of the scope of the problem is census data showing 17,387 state residents are concerned that they could very likely be evicted over the next two months. Another 38,032 say they are somewhat likely to be evicted over the next two months.
MIAMI (AP)  For the owner of a small private security company with a history of avoiding paying debts and declaring bankruptcy, it looked like a good opportunity: Find people with military experience for a job in Haiti.

Antonio Tony Intriago, owner of Miami-based CTU Security, seems to have jumped at the chance, hiring more than 20 former soldiers from Colombia for the mission. Now the Colombians have been killed or captured in the aftermath of the July 7 assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise, and Intriago's business faces questions about its role in the killing.

On Wednesday evening, Leon Charles, head of Haitis National Police, accused Intriago of traveling to Haiti numerous times as part of the assassination plot and of signing a contract while there, but provided no other details and offered no evidence.

The investigation is very advanced, Charles said.

A Miami security professional believes Intriago was too eager to take the job and did not push to learn details, leaving his contractors in the lurch. Some of their family members back in Colombia have said the men understood the mission was to provide protection for VIPs.

Three Colombians were killed and 18 are behind bars in Haiti, Colombias national police chief, Gen. Jorge Luis Vargas, told reporters in Bogota. Colombian diplomats in Haiti have not had access to them.

Vargas has said that CTU Security used its company credit card to buy 19 plane tickets from Bogota to Santo Domingo for the Colombian suspects allegedly involved in the killing. One of the Colombians who was killed, Duberney Capador, photographed himself wearing a black CTU Security polo shirt.

Nelson Romero Velasquez, an ex-soldier and attorney who is advising 16 families of the Colombians held in Haiti, said Wednesday that the men had all served in the Colombian militarys elite special forces and could operate without being detected, if they had desired. He said their behavior made it clear they did not go to Haiti to assassinate the president.

They have the ability to be like shadows, Romero Velasquez said.

American soldiers had trained a small number of the Colombians when they were active-duty, the Pentagon said Thursday after running their names through databases. They were among thousands from Latin America and the Caribbean who receive training.

The predawn attack took place at the presidents private home. He was shot to death and his wife wounded. Its not clear who pulled the trigger. The latest suspects identified in the sweeping investigation included a former Haitian senator, a fired government official and an informant for the U.S. government.

Miami has become a focus of the probe. The city has long been a nest of intrigue, from being a CIA recruitment center for the failed Bay of Pigs operation to overthrow Cuban dictator Fidel Castro to being a key shipment point for Colombian cocaine in the 1980s. Its palm-fringed shores have also been a place of exile for people from Latin American and Caribbean countries when political winds blew against them at home, and where some plotted their returns.

Homeland Security Investigations, a U.S. agency responsible for investigating crimes that cross international borders, is also investigating the assassination, said a Department of Homeland Security official who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk about the case. He declined to provide details.

The FBI says it is providing investigative assistance to Haitian authorities.

Intriago, who immigrated from Venezuela over a decade ago and participated in activities in Miami opposing the leftist regime in his homeland, did not respond to multiple requests for an interview.

He likes to be around powerful people and has posted photos on social media showing himself with them, including Colombian President Ivan Duque.

Duque's office on Monday disavowed any knowledge of Intriago, saying Duque was in Miami while campaigning for the presidency in February 2018. He posed for photographs with some of those in attendance, but Duque did not have any meeting or any ties with Intriago, the Colombian president's office said.

Florida state records show Intriagos company has changed names in the past dozen years: CTU Security to CS Security Solutions to Counter Terrorist Unit Federal Academy LLC.

CTU lists two Miami addresses on its website. One is a shuttered warehouse with no signage. The other is a small office suite under a different name. A receptionist said the CTU owner stops by once a week to collect mail.

The company website says it offers "first-class personalized products and services to law enforcement and military units, as well as industrial customers.

But it ducked paying some of those wholesale companies for their products. Florida records show Intriagos company was ordered by a court to pay a $64,791 debt in 2018 to a weapons and tactical gear supply company, RSR Group. Propper, a military apparel manufacturer, also sued for nonpayment.

Alexis Ortiz, a writer who worked with Intriago organizing meetings of expatriate Venezuelans in the United States, described him as a very active, skilled collaborator.

He seemed nice, Ortiz said.

Capador and a Colombian captured in Haiti, German Alejandro Garcia, had planned an operation to arrest Moise, Vargas said Thursday. How the president instead wound up getting killed was unclear.

Richard Noriega, who runs International Security Consulting in Miami, said he does not know Intriago personally but has been observing the developing situation. Noriega, who is also originally from Venezuela, believes Intriago was lured by the prospect of fast money and did not perform due diligence.

Putting himself in Intriago's shoes, Noriega said: I'm coming out of a complicated situation  of work, of income, of money. An opportunity arises. I don't want to lose it."

Normally, a security company would seek all the details of an operation, to determine how many people to use and what level of insurance they would need. A priority would be to plan an escape route in case things go awry, he said.

The first thing we (security professionals) have to take into account is the evacuation. Where will they exit? That's the first thing I do, Noriega said.

But apparently that planning never happened, perhaps because the Colombians, or at least some of them, thought their mission was benign.

He said it doesn't seem logical that if the highly trained Colombians were there to kill the president, that they would not have had an escape route. Instead they were caught, some hiding in bushes, by the local population and police.

It is very murky, Noriega said.

___

Selsky, a former Associated Press bureau chief in the Caribbean and Colombia, reported from Salem, Oregon. AP writers Joshua Goodman in Miami, Evens Sanon in Port-au-Prince, Haiti; Robert Burns at the Pentagon; and Manuel Rueda and Astrid Suarez in Bogota, Colombia, contributed to this report.
As I was wandering through Target, I passed a display of red, white and blue M&Ms on the Fourth of July, so I tossed a package in my cart even though I knew Id have to listen to complaints about my cholesterol or my patriotism. Nowadays anything and everything is a potential argument in America.

(If my primary care physician is reading this: Doc, you can lecture me about my cholesterol when I come for my physical.)

For 33 years, Mars has been making red, white and blue M&Ms for presidential guests on Air Force One. They were created in 1988 for Ronald Reagan, and then Bill Clinton added the presidential signature to the package. Barack Obama gave them out but wouldnt eat any, although Donald Trump enjoyed them, and Joe Biden recently got his personalized stash.

When I went home, I discovered my package was labeled SHARING SIZE. The executives at M&M apparently believe there are enough candies in a 10.7 ounce bag to permit sharing and that its unpatriotic for one person to eat them all, since theyre red, white and blue.

The company says the package has 11 servings of 32 pieces each, which according to my calculations can serve only half of President Bidens Cabinet. Kamala Harris has to get her own.

I bet you didnt know the Fair Packaging Act of 1967 made it illegal to misrepresent package sizes. That probably means someone from the National Security Agency is policing the M&Ms factory to make sure they put 352 M&Ms in the bag to qualify as sharing size. Your tax dollars at work.

And for all we know, there are hundreds of federal agents snooping around to ensure that citizens who bought a sharing size bag of M&Ms are indeed sharing. If not, theyll put a note in your FBI file and confiscate your candy. No warrant required.

Biden should issue an executive order, creating a national sharing policy to unite Democrats and Republicans and distribute red, white and blue M&Ms to red states and blue states. As the song says, Everybody get together, try to love one another right now!

Actually, I dont care what your political affiliation is. Im an independent and dont want to share. Sharing is vastly overrated. I remember when I was in college and had to begrudgingly share a pizza with my friends. Even though I pretended to share, I was actually calculating whether they ate more pieces than I did.

If we had a six-pack, Id snatch the last can of Budweiser when no one was looking. I wasnt about to ask, Does anybody want that? because somebody might say yes. So much for sharing and caring.

My idol is the great presidential cheapskate Calvin Coolidge. In his honor, I urge M&Ms to create a hoarding size or stingy size for people who want to eat them all and not have some grubber take whats rightfully ours. Its a good thing Coolidge never had presidential M&Ms. Thered be only five in the box, and Im sure he wouldnt share them. Connecticut Gov. Wilbur Cross once said Coolidge never let loose a nickel unless he had to.

President Coolidge would have loved the fun size. Fun size candy is so small it turned Halloween into a tapas party. You need seven or eight KitKats to equal one of the candy bars we got as kids, which were the cavity-producing size.

Something is seriously wrong when the packaging weighs more than the candy. This is a sustainability issue, not to mention a Constitutional issue. It should be illegal to gyp kids out of candy thats rightfully theirs. Theres no fun in fun size.

My theory is that everything in America is being fun-sized to recoup lost profits from COVID. Were paying higher taxes and our services are being fun sized. Were paying more at restaurants, and were getting fun-sized portions of pasta and pork fried rice, not to mention fun-sized salads or no salads at all. How about some rolls once in a while?

Now that our legislators have legalized marijuana, you can be sure theyll want to put weed in fun size packages and tax the heck out of it. Its the American way. Wont that be fun?

And Connecticut is probably already scheming to have cannabis dealers develop a sharing size so there can be plenty of taxable toking for everyone in our state, along with New York and Rhode Island.

Joe Pisani can be reached at joefpisani@yahoo.com.
Julie Gettings receives Holy Communion from Father Joseph McCaffrey during Holy Spirit Parish's first outdoor Mass on June 2, 2020, in front of the former Sears building in Union Township. After nearly a year, the parish's parking lot Masses may be winding down now that Bishop David Zubik is allowing 100 percent capacity in all Diocese of Pittsburgh churches.
Dr. Richard F. Zarilla, Ph.D., 84, of Douglassville, Amity Township, Pennsylvania, passed away on Thursday, July 15, 2021, at The Keystone Villa at Douglassville. Born in New Castle, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Alfred and Cecilia (Saletra) Zarilla. Richard was a lifelong learner
Scarborough - Dr. Arthur C. DiMauro passed away on July 13, due to pancreatic cancer. A former resident of West Newbury and Haverhill, MA and long-time member of the Haverhill Country Club, Art grew up in South Portland, Maine and graduated from South Portland High School and the University 
By Express News Service

CHENNAI: Deviating entirely from the Union Environment Ministry-approved alignment for the coal conveyor corridor, TANGEDCOs Ennore SEZ project is laying its corridor in an unapproved route by dumping illegally transported dredged sea sand and fly ash into waterbodies, including the Kosasthalai rivers tidal channel, claim environmental activists from Save Ennore Creek campaign.

The activists claim TANGEDCO has misled Electricity Minister V Senthil Balaji into issuing a statement that all is legal. A ground truthing exercise done using a handheld GPS by Save Ennore Creek campaign has revealed that the ongoing construction has already led to the loss of more than 15 acres of wetlands, including 1.1 acres of Kosasthalai river. If allowed to proceed, this alignment will claim additional 2.4 acres of river-spread including mangroves, the campaign said.

After using an alignment that avoids waterbodies to get an approval, TANGEDCO has illegally altered the alignment without informing the Union Environment Ministry, and gone ahead with a completely different alignment that runs mostly on water bodies.

According to local fisherfolk, Konamudukku Kalvai which is the area of the river being encroached by TANGEDCO is one of the most biologically productive segments in the area. The presence of mangroves and deep-water habitats make this a sheltered breeding place for prawns. Fishers report a drastic drop in fish catch over the last three months. Enough is enough. We are going to pursue this to its logical end. We want these encroachments removed, and we want to be fully compensated for the damage done to our source of livelihood, said R.L. Srinivasan of Kattukuppam fishing village.

When contacted, the Chief Engineer of Ennore SEZ project has outrightly refuted the claims of the activists saying there was no deviation in the alignment. The allegations are baseless and unfounded. The construction is going on as per the approved alignment. TANGEDCO is a government body and how can we change the alignment just like that, asked the official.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) on Thursday asked the government to bring petrol and diesel under the ambit of GST to bring down the fuel rates, a day after prices of petrol in Delhi crossed the Rs 100 a litremark. It also urged the central government to withdraw the increased excise duty that was introduced last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Crude oil was the cheapest in the last 16 years in 2020-21. During corona, between March and May 2020, when crude oil became cheaper, the central government increased the excise duty on petrol by Rs 13 and diesel by Rs 16, a statement from CTI said.

The dealer price of petrol in Delhi is Rs 40.62 per litre, central excise duty is Rs 32.90/ litre, VAT is Rs 23.13 per litre, while dealer commission is Rs 3.60 per litre, that is, the tax being levied on per litre of petrol is Rs 56.03. Similarly, the dealer price of diesel is Rs 42.39 per litre, excise duty is Rs 31.80 per litre, VAT is Rs 12.85 while dealer commission is Rs 2.53.

CTI chairman Brijesh Goyal said the traders body had recommended bringing petrol and diesel in maximum luxury slab of GST and levying Rs 18 per litre CGST and SGST each on petrol. The price of petrol including dealer commission will be Rs 80.22 per litre after this. Similarly, if Rs 15 worth of CGST and SGST each is levied on diesel, the price will be Rs 74.92 per litre, Goyal said.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Governments and people should together take all the steps to curb the spread of the coronavirus, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Thursday, referring to the "Kanwar Yatra".

The Supreme Court issued notice to the Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday for allowing the "Kanwar Yatra" in the state in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. "The COVID pandemic is a very serious matter. All governments and the people should take all those steps necessary to fight it," Kejriwal said when asked for his views on the "Kanwar Yatra" during the pandemic on the sidelines of an event at the Delhi Assembly.

Meanwhile, the city recorded 72 fresh cases of coronavirus infections and one death on Thursday, while the positivity rate stood at 0.10 per cent. The single new fatality pushed the death toll in the city to 25,022, according to the latest health bulletin. A total of 69,212 tests, including 45,615 RT-PCR tests and 23,597 rapid antigen tests, were conducted a day ago, according to the bulletin on Thursday.

The number of cumulative cases on Thursday stood at 14,35,353. Over 14 lakh patients have recovered from the infection. The number of active cases decreased to 671 on Thursday from 688 a day before, the bulletin said.

The number of people under home isolation slightly rose to 230 from 215 on Wednesday while the number of containment zones dropped to 439 from 472 a day before. On Wednesday, Delhi had recorded 77 new cases and one death, while on Tuesday the daily infection tally was 76 with two deaths.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: JNU student Sharjeel Imam, arrested under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the sedition law, has moved a bail plea before a Delhi court in a case related to making allegedly inflammatory speeches during the anti-CAA/NRC protests.

In the bail plea, which came up for hearing before Additional Sessions Judge Amitabh Rawat on Thursday, Imam claimed he never participated in or encouraged any violence during any protest or demonstration. Imam was arrested for his alleged speech at Jamia Millia Islamia on December 13, 2019, and at Aligarh Muslim University on December 16 where he allegedly threatened to cut off Assam and the Northeast from India.

During the hearing, advocate Tanveer Ahmed Mir, representing Imam, read parts of his speeches and said, "Where is the call of violence? How does sedition come into play? The context is to block the roads. How is this seditious? Imam spoke about cutting off some cities. When the call rail roko is not seditious, why is the call of bringing the country to a standstill seditious?"

Mir submitted that the contents of the speeches show that there was neither any "incitement to violence" nor had any incidents of violence taken place which could be attributed to the Imams speeches.

Umar Khalids bail hearing on July 27

NEW DELHI: A Delhi court on Thursday said it will hear the bail application of former JNU student leader Umar Khalid, arrested under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in the northeast Delhi riots conspiracy case, on July 27.

Additional Sessions Judge Amitabh Rawat has sought a reply from the prosecution on Umars bail plea by the next day of the hearing. Khalid and several others has been booked under the anti-terror law and are accused of being the masterminds of the February 2020 violence.

The high court had recently granted bail to Tanha, Narwal and Kalita in the case.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: The Delhi government on Thursday alleged that it is being "pressurised" by the Lieutenant Governor to change the public prosecutors arguing the farmers agitation cases. Government officials said the L-G has asked the government to give Cabinets approval to the panel of lawyers recommended by the Delhi Police.

Earlier, the panel of lawyers recommended by the police had been rejected by Home Minister Satyendar Jain. In order to solve the deadlock, a Cabinet meeting is likely to be held on Friday. According to officials, Baijal has asked the government to call for a cabinet meeting and "pressured" the government to take a decision in favour of Delhi Police's lawyers.

This is not the first time that Kejriwal government and Baijal have opposite views on the panel of public prosecutors. In the past, there was a similar controversy regarding the panel of lawyers arguing northeast Delhi riot cases.

Farmers have been protesting against the three farm laws made by the central government for several months and the have registered several cases against these agitating farmers. The Delhi government had formed a panel of lawyers for a fair hearing of the cases registered against the farmers.

In this regard, a list of lawyers was sent by the Delhi Police to Home Minister Jain for approval, which was rejected. After this, the Home Minister sent a list of lawyers to the lieutenant Governor, which was rejected by him.
By PTI

LOS ANGELES: "After Yang" actor Sarita Choudhury, Nicole Ari Parker of "Empire" fame, and Karen Pittman, best known for "The Morning Show", have signed on to star in HBO Max's "Sex and the City revival".

Titled "And Just Like That", the series will see franchise leads Sarah Jessica Parker, Cynthia Nixon, and Kristin Davis reprise their characters, Carrie Bradshaw, Miranda Hobbs, and Charlotte York from the popular romance comedy-drama series that aired on HBO in 1998.

The revival will see Parker, Nixon and Davis begin a new journey in life as three friends who are now in their 50s.

According to Deadline, Choudhury stars as single, self-made powerhouse Manhattan real estate broker, Seema Patel.

Parker will play Lisa Todd Wexley, a Park Avenue mother of three and documentarian.

Pittman will be seen in the role of Dr Nya Wallace, a brilliant Columbia Law professor.

"Everyone at 'And Just Like That ' is thrilled to have these amazing and vibrant actors join the 'Sex and the City' family.

Each of them will add their unique spark and big heart to these new characters and the stories we are about to tell," executive producer Michael Patrick King said.

Parker, Davis and Nixon are also attached to executive produce the 10-episode series that started production in New York last week.

Other original cast members Chris Noth, Mario Cantone, David Eigenberg, Willie Garson, and Evan Handler will also return for the revival drama.

Sara Ramirez, known for "Grey's Anatomy" and "Madam Secretary", is a new addition to "And Just Like That".

Kim Cattrall, who played one of the four leads Samantha Jones in "Sex and the City" and its two follow-up movies, is not part of the upcoming series.

Based on a novel of the same name by Candace Bushnell, the original "Sex and the City" series was created by Darren Star, also known for the cult classic series "Beverly Hills, 90210", "Younger" and "Emily in Paris".
By PTI

MUMBAI: Actor Shilpa Shetty Kundra says she will make her digital debut with a series and is excited to see how the audience will receive her in the streaming space.

The actor said, though it is too early to reveal details, she aims to start shooting for the project in 2022.

"I've said yes to something that I'm going to start mid next year. It needs a lot of prep, that will be another announcement. OTT has opened up a lot of avenues for many actors, including me. It requires a lot of time so if it's that one outing, then it really has to justify you and be synonyms with your brand. So there is something that has come my way. It'll be interesting for me to be seen in that space," she told PTI.

Shilpa will be the latest '90s star to venture into the digital space.

Her contemporaries like Madhuri Dixit and Raveena Tandon are also set to make their digital debut with Netflix series "Finding Anamika" and "Aranyak", respectively.

While Sushmita Sen has already made a successful series debut with the 2020 show, "Aarya".

The 46-year-old actor said apart from the OTT project, she has also signed a new film, which will go on floors by the end of the year.

Shilpa is currently gearing up for the release of "Hungama 2", featuring Paresh Rawal.

The Priyadarshan-directed comedy is scheduled to be released on Disney+Hotstar on July 23.

The actor, known to star in films like "Life in a Metro" and "Dhadkan", said, though the comedy marks her first film in 14 years, her comeback film was supposed to be "Baaghi" director Sabbir Khan's "Nikamma".

The action-romantic-comedy, also starring Abhimanyu Dassani and Shirley Setia, was pushed due to the pandemic.

Shilpa Shetty said, "The first film I had said yes to was 'Nikamma'. It is a great part. I thought if I have to make a comeback, it has to be something different. We are waiting for a theatrical release for that one."

'Hungama 2' happens to release first.

"I would have loved to make my comeback on 70 mm but OTT is great for us actors because there are some people who would prefer watching films at home due to the pandemic," she added.

Both, "Hungama 2" and "Nikamma" are a departure from the trend of actors making a comeback to the screen with heavy duty, socially relevant films.

Shilpa said she is inclined towards entertaining the audience and unlike other stars, doesn't take herself "too seriously."

"I really believe actors take themselves too seriously. But I don't. I'm here to entertain people. A film has to be received well, it's never about you. There are so many big multistarrer films where, in the trailer itself I feel, 'I don't think this will work for me."

"I've learnt over the years, if the content works, the actor works and becomes bigger...Both the films that I chose after such a long sabbatical worked for me on those front," Shilpa added.
Nikita Sharma By

Express News Service

The social isolation and emotional trauma in the pandemic has led to an increase in mental health issues across age groups. However, teenagers especially are not comfortable openly discussing their state of mind fearing taboo and ostracism.

In a bid to offer mental health support to young individuals, a group of Grade 11 students Akkshansh Bagga, Akshat Jain, Yash Kataria, Muskaan Chawla, and Aryan Misra from Shiv Nadar School, developed an AI chatbot Sparky that provides non-clinical support to deal with stress and anxiety.

This portal monitors the mood of users, and helps them express their thoughts and emotions through therapeutic conversations. For individuals who may be open to the human connection, the portal connects them with others facing similar issues.

Before creating the bot, the students conducted a survey with a sample size of 500 young adults to gauge the issues people are going through during the pandemic.

"Research studies prior to the pandemic showed 14.5 per cent adolescents in India have anxiety disorders. And our final data analysis revealed that in our school, one in four students were showing symptoms of diagnosable anxiety," says Bagga, who did the graphic designing for Spark the Spirit (sparkthespirit.in).

Misra, who handles the research, animation, prototype design and sensor positioning, says, "Since everything went digital in the pandemic, we tried to adapt to it and create something online."

They decided on the topic for the bot, and have been working on it for the past 16 months, regularly introducing new features. Chawla says, "We had even added a question that asked users if they would like to use a device that could help them manage anxiety, and were surprised that more than a third of them said 'no'."

To make the chatbot, they used Google platform Dialog Flow. "To integrate into a website, we used java Script. It's an ever-improving process, and we are still adding new features," says Jain. How does the chatbot work? On the homepage, there is an animated bird to the right. Clicking on it takes you to the chatbot Sparky.

The bot asks a set of introductory questions, and gradually asks the user if they would like to answer certain questions. Misra says, "We have designed these questions based on the general Paediatric Symptom Checklist 35. Additionally, some calculations go on at the back end. And at the end of the course, it diagnoses anxiety and other problems and suggests therapeutic songs, grounding exercises and inspirational videos from a resources' page on the website, to calm the user down. For concrete solutions, they will have to visit counsellors and therapists."

Chawla, who does sound production and manages public relations, adds, These resources have been curated by us but we have been in close communication with counselors throughout the project.

Over 1,200 users have used the chatbot. We also have clubs where we equip students to help others. We teach them about mental disorders, anxiety, other day-to-day problems and ways to deal with them. Right now, we have club sessions for schools across five cities, and we hope to expand it across India, adds Jain.
By ANI

MURSHIDABAD: Stating that the people are scared of the police, National Commission for Minorities vice-chairman and member of NHRC team on post-poll violence, Atif Rasheed on Thursday said that the only fault of the people was that they voted for the BJP, for which they are now being tortured by the police.

He further stated that the police is threatening the victims of West Bengal post-poll violence not to file a complaint.

"The public is scared of the police. Their fault is they voted for the BJP. Why police torture for voting? Police is threatening victims not to file a complaint," said Rasheed during a meeting with Murshidabad SP.

Atif is on a three-day visit to West Bengal to investigate the post-poll violence in the state.

The National Commission for Minorities vice-chairman who is in the state from July 6 to July 9, will visit the affected areas in Malda and Murshidabad.

On his visit to the state on June 29, Rasheed had alleged that he was attacked in Jadavpur when the NHRC team went to the state to investigate the post-poll violence attacked here.Earlier, on June 21, the NHRC chairperson Justice (Retired) Arun Mishra has constituted a committee headed by former Intelligence Bureau chief Rajiv Jain to enquire into the complaints of post-poll violence in West Bengal.

The inquiry was ordered in accordance with the orders of the High Court of Calcutta, NHRC officials said. As per the orders of the High Court, the NHRC Committee shall examine all cases of post-poll violence in West Bengal, complaints about which have already been received in the National Human Rights Commission or which may be received.

A four-member team deputed by the Ministry of Home Affairs has also visited the post-poll violence-affected areas after several incidents of violence have been reported at various places after the declaration of the Assembly poll results on May 2.
Mayank Singh By

Express News Service

POONCH: Villages along the Line of Control (LoC) are reaping the benefits of ceasefire in effect since late February this year as development activities are picking up pace. Community classes for children have begun, electrification of villages has resumed and farming is back on its feet.

Peace at the LoC has enabled road repair work as large JCB machines are seen moving stones and filling the earth. The machines would have been absent had ceasefire agreement not been in place, says Mohammad Yunus, a resident of Kanga village along the LoC.

This road is being built with support from various initiatives of the government such as the Border Area Development Programme and Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. The Army pooled its own resources.

The biggest gainer of the prevailing calm is Datot, a village which has started getting electricity for the first time.

The situation was completely different months ago until February 23 this year when the Directors General Military Operations of India and Pakistan reiterated their commitment to the 2003 ceasefire agreement and decided to maintain peace at the de facto border.

The area bore the brunt of Pakistan Armys small arms fire on a daily basis, forcing people to community bunkers. The usual movement of people was seen as a relief, says a local resident Rafia Kausar. Schools would remain closed for days, and even months, she said.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in Tashkent and discussed the fast-evolving situation in Afghanistan in the face of withdrawal of US forces from the country.

Jaishankar said he reiterated India's support for peace, stability and development of Afghanistan.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of a multilateral connectivity conference.

"Pleased to call on President @ashrafghani. Discussed the current situation in and around Afghanistan. Reiterated our support for peace, stability and development of Afghanistan," the external affairs minister tweeted.

Jaishankar travelled to Tashkent after a two-day visit to Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe where he attended a crucial meeting of the foreign ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

Pleased to call on President @ashrafghani. Discussed the current situation in and around Afghanistan. Reiterated our support for peace, stability and development of Afghanistan. pic.twitter.com/heTlL9KwaQ  Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) July 15, 2021

The foreign ministers of the SCO countries extensively deliberated on the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan triggered by the Taliban's attempts to expand its influence in that country following the withdrawal of the US forces.

The US has withdrawn majority of its forces from Afghanistan.

Afghanistan witnessed a series of terror attacks in the last few weeks as the US aimed to complete the withdrawal of its forces from Afghanistan by August-end, ending a nearly two-decade of its military presence in the war-ravaged country.

In his remarks at the SCO meeting on Wednesday, Jaishankar said that the future of Afghanistan cannot be its past and the World is against seizure of power by violence and force.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammad Hanif Atmar were among those who participated at the meeting.

In Tashkent, Jaishankar also held talks with his Bangladeshi counterpart A K Abdul Momen.

"Happy to meet with Bangladesh FM Dr AK Abdul Momen on the sidelines of the Tashkent Connectivity Conference. A good opportunity to review the progress in our ties, including its connectivity aspects," Jaishankar tweeted.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: A Trinamool Congress parliamentary party delegation, comprising six MPs, met the Election Commission here on Thursday demanding that the bypolls in six vacant West Bengal Assembly seats be held at the earliest.

In a memorandum submitted to the poll body, the party stated that with the decreasing number of coronavirus cases in the state, conditions are conducive for conducting the bypolls with Covid appropriate protocols in place.

"The number of COVID-19 cases is at least 17 times lower now with fewer than 831 cases reported till July 14. There has been a steady decline in the number of daily cases recorded. Hence, it is conducive to hold the bye-polls to the aforementioned constituencies at this time. Going by the steady decline, it is expected that by the time the bye-elections are announced and conducted, the number of daily cases will decrease further. During this time, appropriate Covid safety norms as may be prescribed by the Election Commission of India (ECI), may be adopted during campaigning," the party said.

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) is keen on the bypolls as West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who lost the Assembly election from Nandigram, will have to get elected in the next six months to continue as the chief minister.

In that case, the bypolls must be conducted by November 5.

After the election results, Sovandeb Chattopadhyay, the TMC MLA from Bhabanipur constituency, had vacated the seat to allow Banerjee to contest from there.

Banerjee had won from Bhabanipur twice since 2011.

Dinhata and Santipur Assembly seats fell vacant after BJP leaders Nisith Pramanik and Jagannath Sarkar resigned as MLAs to retain the Lok Sabha membership.

Polling could not be held in Samserganj and Jangipur seats in Murshidabad district due to the death of candidates.

Khardah seat in North 24 Parganas district felt vacant after TMC candidate Kajal Sinha died of COVID-19 before the results were announced.

Sinha won the election posthumously.

The party also said that if general elections could be held at the height of the pandemic, bypolls too could be held at a time when the cases were significantly lower.

It further argued that in April 2021, wherein polls were conducted in eight phases spread across the month, there was a steep rise in daily Covid cases in West Bengal.

From the middle of April 2021, at the peak of the elections, the daily cases rose from approximately 6,000 cases to 17,000 cases.

"Despite the rise in Covid cases and our repeated requests, the remaining phases of the polls were not clubbed together, as the ECI concluded that it was safe to conduct elections."

"Constitutional principles mandate that voters from the aforesaid assembly constituencies have the fundamental right to elect a representative of their choice to represent them in the Legislative Assembly of the State," the memorandum stated.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said her government has informed the Election Commission that the state was prepared to hold the pending by-elections to seven assembly seats as the COVID-19 situation is these poll-bound areas are largely under control.

Banerjee, during a press meet here, noted that the EC had sought to know if Bengal was ready to conduct polls to two vacant Rajya Sabha seats, and the chief secretary, in his reply, gave assurance that the state could also hold bypolls to the seven assembly constituencies, while adhering to all COVID-19 guidelines.

"With the COVID-19 positivity rate having come down to 1.5 per cent in Bengal, the situation is conducive to conduct the by-elections as most of the poll-bound areas haven't reported any fresh infection of late," she said.

In a jibe at the BJP, which claimed that Banerjee is desperately waiting for the bypolls as she needs to get elected to the Assembly to retain the CM's chair, the TMC boss said the saffron party is opposed to the demand as it knows well that it won't be able to clinch any seat.

"We have placed our demands before the EC following all constitutional norms. There is nothing illegal about it. If an emergency situation arises, the EC will accordingly take a decision. But isn't COVID-19 under control in the seven seats now? Several wards of Bhabanipur havent reported any case over the past few days," she pointed out.

Banerjee, who lost the elections from Nandigram, is expected to file nomination from Bhabanipur, which was vacated by winning TMC candidate Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay, shortly after the results were declared.

Chattopadhyay is slated to contest by-election from Khardah, which fell vacant after TMC's Kajal Sinha succumbed to COVID-19.

In Gosaba, too, TMC winning candidate Jayanta Naskar died of COVID-related complications.

Polls were countermanded in Jangipur and Samserganj following the death of candidates, also due to the viral disease.

In Dinhata and Santipur, the winning BJP nominees quit as MLAs as they wanted to retain parliamentary berths.

Two Rajya Sabha seats fell vacant in the state after Dinesh Trivedi quit the membership of the Upper House in February this year, having switched to the BJP from the TMC, and Manas Bhuniya's election as an MLA in the March-April Assembly polls.

The party, in a memorandum to the EC, said that if assembly elections could be held at the height of the pandemic, bypolls could be held at a time when the cases were significantly lower.
Rajesh Kumar Thakur By

Express News Service

PATNA: Colour-blindness has not deterred him from creating a colourful world of Madhubani paintings. He has come out with many pieces, including drawing themes from the speeches of PM Narendra Modi on the importance of vaccination in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.

Kundan Kumar Roy, 35, is an MBA and a gifted sculptor as well. Congenitally colour-blind, he has created quite a sensation through his Madhubani paintings based on the PMs speeches, mainly, on the importance of face masks and vaccination. The PMs first address to the nation on the eve of one-day Janata Curfew last year became Roys leitmotiv.

I drew the map of India in the palm of the Prime Minister in the Madhubani painting with the help of my sister Ankita, who filled colours in the painting, said Roy. His second painting in support of the PMs message was on protocols with a message: Stay Home. Be Safe. Support lockdown.

Roy credits his late mother for inspiring him. She wanted me to explore the world of colours  a challenge for me, he said. He is supported by his brother Chandan Kumar, sister Ankita and wife Sujata in filling colours on the paintings.

Roys three recent paintings on vaccination have won appreciation from the state health department. Additional Chief Secretary (Health) Pratyay Amrit has made one of the paintings on vaccination the DP as his WhatsApp status. The painting has also been tweeted by a large number of people.

Roy wants to gift the PM a set of his paintings on the themes of his speeches in the fight against Covid-19. His motivational painting on Bihar Assembly polls was used as a promotional by Election Commission. He also has a a series of paintings on the folksongs of Bihars nightingale Sharda Sinha, besides depicting other themes related to environment and social causes. Youth president of National Human Welfare Council and brand ambassador of My Planet My Need, Roy has won several state and national-level awards.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Amid speculation over Navjot Singh Sidhu getting a bigger role in the party in Punjab, the Congress leadership is working out a formula for Chief Minister Amarinder Singh and Sidhu to work together.

AICC general secretary in-charge for Punjab affairs of the party Harish Rawat said Singh will continue as chief minister when the next assembly elections are fought.

"We are working out a formula where both the chief minister and Sidhu could work together," he told reporters.

"Amarinder Singh will continue as chief minister of Punjab and the party will go to polls with him in the top position," he also said.

He, however, said that the party president's final approval on the Punjab unit revamp is awaited.

Rawat said the Congress wants that both should work towards uniting the party and steering it to victory in the next assembly polls, slated early next year.

Both Sidhu and Singh have been at loggerheads with each other and have made public statements against each other, prompting the party to set up a three-member panel headed by Mallikarjun Kharge to end factionalism.

Sources said Sidhu could land up with a bigger role in the party's revamp in Punjab ahead of assembly polls.

The sources add that the Punjab Congress could have two working presidents too, in a bid to accommodate all sections, regions, religions and castes.

The party will announce a major revamp in Punjab in the next few days which may see a new PCC chief.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi has met Singh, and Sidhu has met party leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

The chief minister has told reporters that any decision with regard to the party will be acceptable to all and will be implemented.

Sidhu is also learnt to have told the leadership that any of its decisions will be acceptable.

Sidhu is keen for a bigger role in the revamped organisation ahead of assembly elections.

The party leadership has met almost all senior leaders and legislators from Punjab and taken their views before initiating the changes in the organisation.
By Express News Service

KOLKATA: Kolkata High Court on Wednesday directed the Election Commission to preserve EVMs, VVPATs and other documents related to the Assembly election held in West Bengals Nandigram constituency.

The High Court issued the direction while hearing a petition filed by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, challenging BJP leader Suvendu Adhikaris victory from the constituency. All documents, election papers, devices, video recordings connected with the election under challenge in the court shall be preserved by the Election Commission which is the custodian, said high court judge Shampa Sarkar.

The High Court also said notices will be served to Adhikari, Returning Officer and the Election Commission. The case was reassigned to the bench of Justice Sarkar by acting chief Justice Rajesh Bindal after Justice Kaushik Chanda recused himself from hearing the chief ministers petition.

Mamata had objected to her petition being heard by Justice Chanda after the TMC spokesperson Derek OBrien posted two photographs showing his presence in events hosted by the BJP. In her appeal, Mamata said the bench could be biased. As per the result declared by the poll panel, Adhikari defeated Banerjee by 1,956 votes.

Adhikari moves SC

West Bengal Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari on Wednesday moved the Supreme Court seeking transfer of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees petition challenging his election from Nandigram constituency outside West Bengal.
By PTI

SAMBHAL: AIMIM's Asaduddin Owaisi on Thursday described Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath as his "Majnu" and himself as "Laila", saying instead of targeting him in every interview, the BJP leader should tell about the health services in the state.

"There is 40 per cent shortfall in health sub-centres in rural UP and there no specialist doctor in 84 per cent health centres," Owaisi told reporters here.

He said in the state which sent PM Narendra Modi to the Lok Sabha twice, three to four lakh families lost their near and dear ones to Covid in the second wave.

"They did not have wood to cremate or place to bury bodies. The state government had failed to provide oxygen," the Hyderabad MP alleged.

"The CM, who has become my 'Majnu' and crying 'Laila-Laila' in all interviews, should tell about health services in the state," he said.

Owaisi also took a swipe at the state government over the draft population control bill, terming it a bid to befool the youth, for which unemployment has become a problem.

"On November 22, 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said in the Lok Sabha that against 4,509 posts, there are only 1,344 doctors in UP. And you are talking about population control," he said attacking the UP CM.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Former Union minister Arun Shourie on Thursday moved the Supreme Court to have the sedition law declared unconstitutional, arguing that it is "heavily abused" and cases are being filed against citizens for "exercising their freedom of speech and expression".

Significantly, the petition was filed the day a bench headed by Chief Justice N V Ramana expressed concern over the "enormous misuse" of the law and asked the Centre why it was not repealing the provision used by the British to "silence" people like Mahatma Gandhi to suppress the freedom movement.

The bench agreed to examine the pleas filed by the Editors Guild of India and a former major general challenging the constitutionality of the law, and said its main concern was the "misuse of law".

Section 124-A (sedition) under the IPC is a non-bailable provision.

It makes any speech or expression that "brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the Government established by law in India" a criminal offence punishable with a maximum punishment of life imprisonment.

According to Shourie's petition, "the definition of sedition (Section 124-A) was vague and incapable of accurate appreciation by the common citizen and the law enforcement agencies/ police".

The petition, filed by advocate Prashant Bhushan on Shourie's behalf and the NGO Common Cause, claims that sedition is a colonial law used expressly to suppress dissent by the British in India.

"Sedition has come to be heavily abused with cases being filed against citizens for exercising their freedom of speech and expression on the basis of the literal definition that is available to law enforcement authorities on the statute books," it said.

The petition said the interpretation accorded to Section 124-A by the Supreme Court in the 'Kedar Nath Singh vs State of Bihar' matter in 1962 was "not understood or appreciated by the police which continues to register cases against citizens who are exercising their right to freedom of speech and expression".

"By the time the courts step in to apply the interpretation of Kedar Nath to the facts of the cases, the citizens have already been deprived of their liberty," the petition said.

It added that after India became a democracy, the law was challenged as being violative of the fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression guaranteed by Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution of India in the Kedar Nath matter.

Even though the provision was upheld by the Supreme Court in 1962, the position of the law has changed and the matter requires reconsideration, it said.

"In such circumstances, it is submitted that this court needs to revisit the judgment of Kedar Nath Singh v State of Bihar, and strike down Section 124 A of Indian Penal Code, as being violative of Articles 14 (equality before the law), 19(1)(a) (freedom of speech and expression) and 21 (protection of life and personal liberty) of the Constitution of India," the petition said.

It sought a direction "declaring Section 124-A of the Indian Penal Code as unconstitutional".

"Alternatively, direct that strict action as per law be taken against concerned public servants and complainant/ informants in cases where the accused is discharged in a case of sedition and lay down guidelines for the same," it said.

Several Opposition leaders and civil society activists on Thursday hailed the Supreme Court for asking the Centre whether the sedition law was still needed 75 years after Independence and expressed the hope that it would be "thrown out".

Concerned over the "enormous misuse" of the colonial-era penal law, a Supreme Court bench headed by Chief Justice N V Ramana asked the Centre why it was not repealing the provision used by the British to "silence" people like Mahatma Gandhi to suppress the freedom movement.

The bench, which agreed to examine pleas challenging the constitutionality of section 124A (sedition) in the IPC, also issued notice to the Centre.

"We do not know why the government is not taking a decision. Your government has been getting rid of stale laws," it said.

Reacting to the Supreme Court terming the sedition law colonial and asking whether it was still needed 75 years after Independence, former Congress chief Rahul Gandhi said, "We welcome this observation by the Supreme Court."

Some leaders, including Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra and Swaraj India president Yogendra Yadav, pointed out that about 100 farmers in Haryana were charged with sedition, among other charges, in connection with an attack on the state deputy speaker's car during a farmers' protest.

Moitra said she was finally hoping "this archaic law misused by GoI will be thrown out".

"Ironic that Haryana police charge over 100 farmers with sedition after alleged attack on BJP leader's vehicle while SC questions why we have this outdated law!" the Lok Sabha MP said on Twitter.

On the Supreme Court asking the Centre whether it was necessary to keep the sedition law in the statute books, Yadav said.

"Yes, that's the question. Case in point: Yesterday, sedition case was registered against farmers in Sirsa for breaking the windshield of a minister's vehicle!" That's what this law is being used for, he alleged.

Former law minister Ashwani Kumar did not directly comment on the Supreme Court's observation but tweeted that the sedition charge against Haryana farmers is an insult to India's democratic traditions.

"Government should withdraw the charges immediately and unconditionally," he said.

Activist and lawyer Prashant Bhushan said, "Kudos to the SC & the CJI for standing up to the Govt on the gross misuse of this colonial law of sedition to silence dissent."

According to Congress leader Jaiveer Shergill, the British used the sedition law to silence Mahatma Gandhi and the BJP is "using it to kill principles of transparency and accountability espoused by Mahatma Gandhi".

In a tweet, he said, "28% rise per year in registration of sedition cases since 2014 -- well thought strategy to kill freedom of speech!" Actor and Shiv Sena leader Urmila Matondkar said, "'Do we still need it after 75 years of Independence?' Honorable #SupremeCourt has referred to #Sedition law as 'Colonial'."

Filmmaker and former MP Pritish Nandy also reacted to the Supreme Court asking the Centre whether the sedition law was needed and said, "Good point, Supreme Court. Gone hoarse saying this."

He added that we want to remove all traces of British rule but won't give up this terrible law under which our freedom fighters were jailed.

The Supreme Court bench, which also comprised Justices A S Bopanna and Hrishikesh Roy, said, "Mr attorney (general), we want to ask some questions. This is the colonial era law and the same law was used by the British to suppress freedom movement."

"It was used by British to silence Mahatma Gandhi, Gokhale and others. Is it still necessary to keep this in statute even after 75 years of independence?" it asked.

Observing that the provision on sedition has been put to "enormous misuse", it also referred to alarming misuse of Section 66 A of the Information Technology Act even after the top court set it aside long back. and observed: "It can be compared to a carpenter, asked to cut a wood, cut the entire forest."
By ANI

NEW DELHI: India is the single largest source of government information requests during the second half of 2020, accounting for 25 per cent of the global volume, as per the Twitter Transparency Report released on Wednesday.

India accounted for 25 per cent of the global volume of requests and 15 per cent of the global accounts involved, during the July-December 2020 period.

During this period, Twitter received 38,524 legal demands to remove content specifying 131,933 accounts. Responding to these demands, Twitter withheld or otherwise removed some or all of the reported content in response to 29 per cent of these global legal demands.

"Over the past year, we have experienced and continue to navigate severe global challenges, including the coronavirus pandemic. We have also seen concerted attempts by governments to limit access to the Internet generally and to Twitter specifically," the company said in a blog.

For the June-December period, the compliance rate for government information requests was 30 per cent globally. The second highest volume of information requests originated from the United States, comprising 22 per cent of global information requests.

The United States submitted the highest volume of global emergency requests (34 per cent), followed by Japan (17 per cent), and South Korea (16 per cent).

Also, 94 per cent of the total global volume of legal demands originated from only five countries -- Japan, India, Russia, Turkey, and South Korea.

Twitter also said that accounts of 199 verified journalists and news outlets from around the world were subject to 361 legal demands, which is a 26 per cent increase from the January-June period.

The company noted that while the total number of legal demands dropped by 9 per cent compared to the last reporting period, the requests received during July-December sought content removal from "the largest number of accounts ever in a single reporting period".

Recently, Twitter named Vinay Prakash as the Resident Grievance Officer for India. For the past several months, Twitter has been involved in a stand-off with the Indian government over the new amendments in the country's new Information Technology laws with the micro-blogging platform losing its intermediary status and becoming liable for user-generated content.

According to amended IT rules, social media and streaming companies will be required to take down contentious content quicker and appoint grievance redressal officers based in the country to deal with online content flagged by authorities and courts and assist in investigations.
By PTI

NAGPUR: Seven persons travelling in a bus were injured after the driver of a truck that was running ahead of it suddenly applied brakes when a mentally-ill man hurled a stone towards his vehicle near Nagpur city, a police official said on Thursday.

The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon on Nagpur-Bhandara Road, in which the driver and the conductor of the bus suffered injuries along with five passengers, he said. The truck and the bus were heading towards Bhandara from Nagpur. But the driver of the truck suddenly applied brakes after a mentally-ill man hurled a stone towards his vehicle, senior inspector of Mauda police station, Hemantkumar Kharabe, said.

The bus was also moving with great speed behind the truck. As the truck's speed suddenly dropped, the bus driver also applied brakes and avoided a direct rear-end collision. However, the bus veered off the road after its right side hit the truck, he said.

Seven persons in the bus were injured, the police official said, adding that the mentally-ill man managed to escape from the spot after the accident. On being alerted, a police team rushed to the spot and took the injured to a local hospital.

The driver and the conductor of the bus sustained fractures in the mishap, he said. Police have registered an offence under provisions of the Indian Penal Code and Motor Vehicles Act.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said the Modi government will work with determination to bring positive changes in the lives of crores of people associated with the cooperatives by empowering the sector.

Shah said this after a delegation of Sahakar Bharati met him here, a week after Prime Minister Narendra Modi reallocated the portfolios of his ministers wherein Shah was given the charge of the newly created Ministry of Cooperation.

"Met a delegation of @Sahakar_Bharati led by Shri Ramesh Vaidya, National President of Sahakar Bharati.

"Under the guidance of @narendramodi ji, we have to work with determination to bring positive change in the lives of crores of people associated with cooperative sector by empowering it," Shah tweeted in Hindi.

EDITORIAL: Can Cooperation Ministry change Indias agri story?

According to Sahakar Bharati, it is the only pan-India organisation of cooperators and cooperatives.

It envisages to create, both in rural and urban areas, a strong and devoted cadre of selfless cooperators and a chain of cooperatives that would spread the knowledge of the cooperative movement.

The Sahakar Bharati says its mission is to build the cooperative movement as one of the primary instruments of the decentralised and labour-intensive economy for speedy, balanced, equitable and sustainable growth.
By Express News Service

VARANASI: Amid worries of a possible third wave of Covid-19, which may impact children more, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated maternal and child health (MCH) unit at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) hospital in his parliamentary constituency Varanasi on Thursday.

Considered to be the AIIMS of Purvanchal (East UP), adjoining Bihar and even Nepal, the Sir Sunderlal Hospital in BHU campus got the MCH wing, comprising 100 dedicated beds for maternal and child health care, particularly in view of the vulnerability of children to the possible third wave.

"The 100 new beds in MCH wing comprises 30 neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) beds, 30 high dependency unit (HDU) beds and 40 maternal care beds. It also has an operation theatre, labour room, a library and in vitro fertilization (IVF) facility," a senior officer of the hospital told The New Indian Express.

After getting information about the new facility, PM Modi visited the antenatal care ward as well as the labour room along with a team of young gynecologists and paediatricians.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to inaugurate maternal & child health unit at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) as he visits Varanasi today. People begin arriving at the venue, Police personnel deployed at the spot. pic.twitter.com/z3z1tJRaYR  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) July 15, 2021

After spending seven to ten minutes at the newly inaugurated MCH wing, the PM also saw detailed presentations from the Varanasi district magistrate, the districts chief medical officer and the director of Institute of Medical Sciences (IMS-BHU), besides a private practitioner paediatrician Dr Ashok Rai.

Visibly satisfied with the arrangements at the Banaras Hindu University Hospital, PM Modi took keen interest in knowing how the facilities at the hospital are being regularly updated, particularly the hospitals bed capacity having been raised from 1500 beds to 2700 beds in the last seven years.

According to sources present at PMs interaction with doctors, the Modi particularly enquired about the pace of vaccination in his parliamentary constituency as well as how the state government had handled the spread of Covid pandemic in the second wave in rural areas and the future plans for combating the possible third Covid-19 wave.
By ANI

NEW DELHI: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi left the Parliament's Standing Committee on Defence after taking permission, said committee chairman Jual Oram on Thursday, adding that he also participated in discussions before leaving.

"Rahul Gandhi did not walk out of the Parliament's Standing Committee on Defence. After participating in discussions for quite a while, he took permission and left," Oram said.

"He repeatedly raised the issues of the Line of Actual Control, China and Taliban, but didn't walk out. He raised border situation issues and more but no agenda has been finalised," he added.

This comes after reports that the Wayanad MP and other party leaders walking out of the committee meeting after their demand for discussions on border issues was denied.

The agenda of the meeting was 'further briefing by the representatives of the Ministry of Defence on 'Review of Working of Cantonment Boards'.

While Gandhi did acknowledge that the cantonment agenda should be taken, he demanded that the committee should discuss issues that are "more crucial" like the Taliban gaining ground in Afghanistan and the situation at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.

Gandhi, who is also a member of the committee, was reminded by the Chairman of the committee to abide by the agenda circulated for this meeting.
By PTI

VARANASI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday praised the Uttar Pradesh government for its handling of the Covid crisis and said the way it had controlled the second wave of the infection was "unprecedented".

The prime minister, who arrived at his parliamentary constituency in the morning, also appreciated the Yogi Adiyanath-led government for working with a development-oriented approach rather than one based on corruption and nepotism, and bringing in rule of law in the state.

Describing the efforts of the government in combating COVID-19 as "commendable", the prime minister said Uttar Pradesh's population is more than a dozen big countries but the way "it has controlled the second wave of corona and stopped its spread is unprecedented".

Earlier, even minor problems assumed monstrous proportions due to the shortage of health facilities and the lack of willpower, he said.

The people of Uttar Pradesh, the prime minister said, had seen an era when there were problems in tackling diseases such as encephalitis.

"And this (Covid) is the biggest problem the world is facing in 100 years. It is the biggest pandemic, and hence efforts made by Uttar Pradesh to tackle the corona are commendable.

Modi, who is on a one-day visit to the city, said the last few months had been very difficult for humanity.

"But Kashi along with UP faced such a big problem with full strength. Even during difficult times, Kashi has shown it does not stop, nor does it get tired."

The state government also came in for praise for the law and order situation.

"There is rule of law in UP today. Mafiaraj and terrorism, which were once out of control, are now controlled by law. Criminals who dare to eye sisters and daughters know they will not be spared," Modi said.

The prime minister inaugurated projects worth around Rs 744 crore.

He also laid the foundation stones of projects and public works worth about Rs 839 crore.

These include the Centre for Skill and Technical Support of Central Institute of Petrochemical Engineering and Technology (CIPET) and 143 rural projects under the Jal Jeevan Mission.

Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, the chief minister and several state ministers were present on the occasion.

The prime minister also inspected the MCH at BHU, and interacted with doctors.
By PTI

VARANASI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday described as "commendable" the efforts of the Uttar Pradesh government in combating the COVID-19 crisis. "The way in which UP has controlled the second Covid wave and stopped its spread is unprecedented," the prime minister, who arrived at his parliamentary constituency earlier in the morning, said while addressing a gathering.

Earlier, even minor problems assumed monstrous proportions due to the shortage of health facilities and the lack of willpower, he said. The prime minister inaugurated projects worth around Rs 744 crore and laid the foundation stones of several projects and public works worth about Rs 839 crore.

These include the Centre for Skill and Technical Support of Central Institute of Petrochemical Engineering and Technology (CIPET), 143 rural projects under the Jal Jeevan Mission and mango and vegetable integrated pack house in Karkhiyanv.

Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, the chief minister and state ministers were also present on the occasion. Modi will also inaugurate the International Cooperation and Convention Centre, Rudrakash which has been constructed with Japanese assistance.

Thereafter, he will inspect the Maternal and Child Health Wing, BHU. He will also meet officials and medical professionals to review Covid preparedness.
Sumi Sukanya Dutta By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Amid the fear of the third Covid wave, the Union Health Ministry on Thursday asked the states to keep a sharp focus on health infrastructure developments, oxygen supply and ensure adequate beds for paediatric care in hospitals.

The instructions were issued during a review meeting of the preparations under India Covid-19 Emergency Response and Health Systems Preparedness Package: Phase II with states, approved for July 2021 to March 2022 by PM Narendra Modi on July 8 with an estimated fund of Rs 23, 123 crore.

In the meeting, the Union government also asked states to conduct a quick gap analysis for various infrastructure components.

The final year MBBS students, interns and PG residents may be utilised under the supervision of the faculty as per the National Medical Commission guidelines for providing services of mild Covid management through teleconsultation, the Centre told states.

Similarly, final year nursing graduates have been recommended to be utilised for full-time Covid nursing duties at government facilities under the supervision of senior faculty.

ALSO READ | Twenty children hospitalised in Puducherry after testing coronavirus positive

It was also pointed out that procurement of drugs for effective management is an essential component and that this guidance can be tweaked to local needs while states must come up with their own assessments based on stocks and costs involved.

Phase-II of the Emergency Covid-19 Response Package has central sector and centrally sponsored schemes components and the scheme aims at accelerating the health system preparedness for immediate responsiveness for early prevention, detection and management with a sharp focus on health infrastructure development including paediatric care and with measurable outcomes.

This will help in strengthening decentralised public health actions and public health facilities in rural, peri-urban and tribal areas, the government has said.

A statement from the health ministry said that the stakeholders were guided on policies and guidelines on the aspects of Covid management which would help them in strengthening their healthcare infrastructure to streamline response.

Stakeholders have been asked to send their expenditure proposals at the earliest to enable expeditious approval and sanction from the Central government, the ministry said.

In the review meeting, the Centre reiterated the need to establish dedicated paediatric care units in all 736 districts of the country for responding to the needs of Paediatric Covid-19 management and also increase the availability of ICU beds including 20% paediatric ICU beds as per evolving needs.

In addition, states will be supported to have 1050 liquid medical oxygen storage tanks along with a medical gas pipeline system, at least one per District, to augment the availability of medical oxygen in the public healthcare system.

The stress is on also strengthening the teleconsultation platform to provide up to 5 lakhs teleconsultation services per day, duly augmenting the availability of spokes and hubs.


By PTI

CHANDIGARH: SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal on Thursday said that a post of a deputy chief minister will be given to a person from the Hindu community if the SAD-BSP alliance comes to power in the state.

Badal said Punjab will have two deputy CMs if the alliance is voted to power in the assembly elections scheduled to take place next year.

He had earlier announced that one deputy CM post will be given to a Dalit.

He said this will make the SAD-BSP alliance, if voted to power, truly representative of the composite Punjabi culture and a symbol of unity, peace and communal harmony as espoused by former chief minister Parkash Singh Badal.

Last month, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) had formed an alliance for the 2022 Punjab assembly polls.

After a meeting of the SAD's core committee on Thursday evening, Badal said, "We understand that there are external forces which want to disturb the peace of Punjab by pitching communities against each other."

"We want to guarantee Punjabis that the SAD will continue to follow the policies of Parkash Singh Badal under which all religions were respected and honoured."

He said, "We are committed to keeping all communities together and it is with this in mind that the SAD has decided to have a representative from the Hindu community as a deputy CM once it secures power in Punjab," he said.

Badal said he had already announced -- on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Bhim Rao Ambedkar -- that the SAD would offer the chair of a deputy CM to a Dalit once voted to power.

He said Punjab has the highest population of Dalits vis-a-vis other states and it was felt that more efforts should be made to protect their interests.

"Earlier also it was the SAD which had extended the maximum social welfare benefits to the Dalit community when in government," he said.

The SAD president said the decision to have two deputy CMs was in consonance with "the liberal secular ethos of 'Sarbat da Bhala' (well-being of all) handed down to us through the rich heritage of the great Gurus".

"It is also symbolic of the strong emotional bonds that bind the different communities together."

Badal also said in the forthcoming Parliament session, the SAD would move an adjournment motion demanding the three agricultural laws be repealed.

He appealed to all political parties to support the SAD in this endeavor.

He said the party would continue to raise its voice for the farmers till all their grievances are resolved.
By PTI

KOLKATA: The NHRC committee enquiring into alleged post-poll violence in West Bengal as per a Calcutta High Court order has said that a large number of complaints have been received from six districts of the state, while only three per cent of the total accused people are currently in jail.

The report submitted to a five-judge bench of the high court on July 13 said that Cooch Behar recorded 322 complaints, Birbhum 314, South 24 Parganas 203, North 24 Parganas 196, Kolkata 172 and Purba Bardhaman 113.

Making a list of alleged notorious criminals in various districts, it noted the names of a state minister, a ruling party MLA and a former MLA among others.

The seven-member enquiry committee, which was formed by the chairman of the National Human Rights Commission on a direction by the Calcutta High Court, said that the percentage of accused arrested and that of accused who are still in custody is abysmally low, showing "inept performance of local police and there is no deterrence for criminal elements."

It said that the data provided by the West Bengal director general of police reflects that, out of the 9,304 accused cited in FIRs, only 1,354 (14 per cent) have been arrested and, out of them, 1,086 (80 per cent) already secured bail.

"Thus, overall speaking, less than 3 per cent of the accused are in jail, while 97 per cent are out in the open, making a mockery of the whole system, the report said.

"It is quite evident that police is working under influence and in a biased manner and do not have the courage to take action against looming goons belonging to the ruling dispensation," the seven-member NHRC committee report said in a scathing remark.

The report noted that the inspectors in-charge of police stations have not visited the places of many of the violent incidents, nor collected any evidence or recorded statements, "let alone registering FIRs."

It said that out of the 311 spot enquiries conducted by the NHRC teams, in as many as 188 instances (60 per cent), FIRs have not been registered and that in 33 (27 per cent) of the remaining 123 cases, "police have resorted to dilution by using milder sections of law."

The report said that when the NHRC operational teams visited these 311 places, additionally, 2,869 people approached them with petitions requesting enquiry and registration of cases.

"To summarize, for 123 cases registered by the police, there were another 3,057 (2869+ 188) number of complainants/ petitioners/victims, whose cases were either not registered by police or cases were diluted or police were not accessible to them and therefore, they wanted NHRC teams to enquire into their issues," the report said.

If this is considered as a sample of the state of affairs in West Bengal, the extent of burking and minimisation of crime across the state can be well imagined, the committee said in its observation.

National Commission for Women (NCW) member Rajulben L Desai, who is a member of the NHRC committee, "during her visit to villages observed that people are not coming out of their houses because of the reason that if they make a complaint then the goons of TMC (Trinamool Congress) will further victimise their family members."

The report said that Desai observed in this situation there is no rule of law in the state.

"There is need of good governance in the state of West Bengal for implementing the rights provided by Indian Constitution i.e, Right to live with dignity (Article 21) which includes right to residence and right to food, right to medical, legal aid and freedom of expression," she observed, according to the report submitted before the high court.

Holding that the committee's work was severely affected by prevalent fear among victims, the report said that it precluded many victims from mentioning their plight or the name of the perpetrators of crime or abettors.

Asserting that the "poor and common people have lost faith in police," the report said that almost all the victims informed the inquiry committee and their teams that the police either did not respond to their phone calls or came and stood as mere spectators while goons went on a rampage from one place to another.

"The police were either negligent or complicit or under pressure not to take any action against the goons belonging to the ruling dispensation," it said.

It said that the sanctioned and actual manpower in police stations is very low, given the large area and dense demography.

It is not sufficient to cover large scale incidents and carry out effective beat policing at beat/chowki level, the report said, adding that this shortage has been sought to be augmented by deployment of civic volunteers.

"The spate of violence shows a pernicious politico- bureaucratic-criminal nexus. Criminals indulged in violence against political rivals while the bureaucratic edifice was complicit in various degrees."

"This is a deadly combination that has sinister implications for any State and will ultimately corrode the entire edifice. The presence of this nexus in a border State also has larger national security implications," the committee said in its report.

Recommending ex-gratia payments to the victims, the NHRC committee said that the next of kin of deceased persons should be given Rs 5 lakh each, while survivors of sexual assault should be given Rs 2 lakh each.

Victims who suffered vandalisation/looting/destruction of their properties should be given Rs 1 lakh each.

Victims who suffered grievous injuries should be given Rs 1 lakh each and those who suffered a simple injury should be given Rs 50,000 each, the panel recommended.

The NHRC Thursday rejected as "baseless and factually incorrect" allegations that a report prepared by its committee probing the incidents of post-poll violence in West Bengal has been leaked by the rights panel.

The National Human Rights Commission said in a statement that the panel had submitted its report to the Calcutta High Court on July 13.

"The NHRC refutes allegations in a section of the media, regarding the leak of the report, relating to the post-poll violence in West Bengal," the statement said.

Since the report is already available with all the concerned parties as per the directives of the court, "there is no question of leakage at the level of the NHRC," the rights panel said.

The attribution regarding the alleged leak of the report to the NHRC is absolutely "baseless and factually incorrect," the statement said.

The NHRC has already shared the copy of the report with the "advocates of the concerned parties in this matter in accordance with the directions of the Hon'ble Calcutta High Court", it added.

The Commission had constituted the committee to inquire into the post-poll violence in the state as per the directions of the Calcutta High Court.

"On further directions of the court, the committee provided a copy of it, to its advocate in Calcutta, who shared with the advocates of all the concerned parties in the related multiple writ petitions," the statement said.

"The matter being sub judice, the committee of the NHRC did not share its report to any entity other than those specified by the hon'ble court," it added.

The committee, in the report placed before the Calcutta High Court, has recommended a CBI investigation into "grievous offences like murder and rape" and suggested that these cases be tried outside the state.

The report, however, drew the wrath of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who said the panel was pursuing "political vendetta" on behalf of the BJP by "leaking" its findings to the media.
By PTI

CHANDIGARH: Haryana's Home Minister Anil Vij on Thursday took a jibe at state BKU leader Gurnam Singh Chaduni, who has suggested that farmers' outfits should test political waters, saying he wants to become another "Kejriwal" through the peasants' movement.

The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) on Wednesday suspended Haryana BKU (Chaduni) chief Gurnam Singh Chaduni for seven days for suggesting that Punjab farmer outfits involved in the stir against the Centre's three farm laws should contest the state polls next year.

"Chaduni wants to become another Arvind Kejriwal through farmers' stir on the lines of social activist Anna Hazare's movement in 2011 where people with political ambitions also achieved their objective by leaving the core issues behind," Vij told reporters.

"Similarly, in the ongoing farmers' movement many farmer leaders want to follow the footsteps of Kejriwal," he said.

Hazare along with Arvind Kejriwal and others had started India Against Corruption movement in 2011.

Kejriwal is also the national convener of the Aam Aadmi Party, which he had later floated.

"When Anna Hazare's movement started, sentiments of many people were associated with it. However, some people were a part of this movement to fulfil their political ambition. Such people have achieved their political objective," Vij said.

Similarly, in the present farmers' movement, "several farmer leaders are willing to follow Kejriwal's footsteps and have a political motive in the guise of the movement. Chaduni is one of them", he said.

"These people do not want to allow this movement to end and they want to keep playing with people's sentiments," Vij alleged.

The Haryana Home minister alleged that the farmers' leaders were not coming forward for talks with the Centre and were putting conditions.

"They do not want to talk as they have nothing to do with farmers' interest and want to build their political career on the basis of this movement," Vij alleged.

"Besides, the people involved in the movement have conflicts amongst themselves and hence they have suspended Chaduni for seven days as there are a number of people among them who want to become another Kejriwal," he further said.

Vij said people know the real purpose of those involved in the movement and they will not fall into the trap.

SKM leader Balbir Singh Rajewal had on Wednesday said Chaduni was making statements regarding "Mission Punjab" despite being told not to do so on several occasions.

Reacting to his suspension, Chaduni said, "I had mooted an idea -- Mission Punjab. No one can stop one from expressing a thought or mooting an idea. One can differ with that. But suspending anyone on this ground is wrong."
By PTI

MUMBAI: Maharashtra's coronavirus caseload rose to 61,89,257 with addition of 8,010 new infections on Thursday, while the death toll reached 1,26,560 after 170 patients succumbed to the respiratory illness, a health department official said here.

The state witnessed a drop in the daily COVID-19 cases, while the fatalities remained the same as compared to Wednesday, when it had reported 8,602 new infections and 170 deaths.

Significantly, Parbhani and Jalgaon cities did not report any new coronavirus infections in the last 24 hours, the official said.

As many as 7,391 patients were discharged from hospitals in the last 24 hours, pushing the number of recovered cases to 59,52,192.

Maharashtra's COVID-19 recovery rate is 96.17 per cent, while the fatality rate is 2.04 per cent.

The state now has 1,07,205 active coronavirus cases.

ALSO WATCH | How Mumbai, India's most crowded city, beat the odds, and the coronavirus:

According to the official, out of 4,48,24,211 COVID-19 tests done so far, 2,14,935 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours.

Currently 5,81,266 people are in home quarantine and 4,471 in institutional quarantine.

The highest number of active cases, 17,401, are in Pune district, followed by Thane and Mumbai at 15,653 and 10,925, respectively.

According to the health department, of the total 59,52,192 recovered patients, the highest - 10,37,193 - were from Pune district, followed by Mumbai and Thane at 7,00,859 and 5,60,811, respectively.

Mumbai recorded 526 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, taking the tally to 7,29,791, while the city's death toll increased to 15,667 with addition of 13 fatalities, the official said.

As many as 346 people tested positive for the infection in Pune municipal limits, taking the tally to 4,99,467, while the death toll jumped to 8,577 after 13 more patients succumbed to COVID-19 in the city.

Nagpur, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Nashik, Aurangabad and Amravati municipal corporation areas reported 11, 217, 62, 15 and 12 new COVID-19 cases, respectively.

In the larger Mumbai circle which includes satellite towns, 1,610 new cases were detected taking the infection tally of the region to 16,21,493, while 51 fatalities took the death toll to 33,170.

In Pune circle, 2,528 new COVID-19 cases took the tally to 14,58,157, while 49 fatalities took the death toll to 12,757.

With 645 new cases and five deaths, the tally of COVID-19 cases in Nashik circle rose to 8,99,966 and the death toll to 17,681.

In Kolhapur circle, 2,745 new cases took the case tally to 4,61,952, while the death toll increased to 12,757 with 45 fatalities.

With 116 new cases and three fatalities, the tally of COVID-19 cases in Nagpur circle increased to 7,70,119 and the death toll to 13,635.

In Aurangabad circle, 84 new cases took the tally to 2,83,012, and the death toll increased to 6,630 with 10 fresh deaths, the official said.

With 239 new cases and two fatalities, the tally of COVID-19 cases in Latur circle increased to 3,39,046 and death toll to 9,264.

In Akola circle, 43 new cases took the tally to 3,55,366, and the death toll increased to 6,060 with five new fatalities.

Coronavirus figures for Maharashtra are as follows: Total cases 61,89,257; new cases 8,010; total deaths 1,26,560; recoveries 59,52,192; active cases 1,07,205; tests conducted so far 4,48,24,211.

At least 5,947 schools in rural Maharashtra, which had been closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, reopened on Thursday for students of Classes 8 to 12 with coronavirus safety protocols in place, officials from the education department said.

The state government had issued a notification about restarting physical classes in rural areas which are not reporting new COVID-19 cases.

"There are a total of 19,997 secondary and higher secondary schools in the state where 45,07,445 students study in Classes 8 to 12.

Of these, 19,997 schools, 5,947 schools in rural areas reopened on Thursday," said Vikas Garad, Deputy Director, State Council of Educational Research and Training.

A total of 4,16,599 students attended schools on the first day," he said.

Kolhapur district saw the highest number of schools - at 940 - reopening followed by Aurangabad (631), Yavatmal (502) and Jalna (447), among others, he said.

According to the officials, the schools reopened after requisite resolutions were passed by respective gram panchayats and by adhering to all COVID-19 guidelines and protocols set by the government.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Absconding diamantaire Mehul Choksi has returned to Antigua and Barbuda, his abode since 2018, after nearly 51 days of custody in neighbouring Dominica for illegal entry which his lawyers claim was a kidnapping plan, local media reported there.

Choksi, 62, was given bail by Dominica High Court to travel back to Antigua for seeking medical help from a neurologist based there and return to face trial when given fitness clearance by his doctors.

After depositing bail money of EC Dollars 10000, Choksi in a light green shirt and khaki shorts flew back to Antigua in a chartered plane, Antigua News Room reported.

Officials of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Antigua and Barbuda met him at the airport.

The issue of his return was brought before the Cabinet under Prime Minister Gaston Browne while it was in session.

The Cabinet observed that Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda will continue to investigate the claims of Choksi's kidnapping and cases of revoking his citizenship and his extradition will continue in the courts there.

Choksi, wanted in Rs 13,500 crore bank fraud case in India, had mysteriously gone missing on May 23 from Antigua and Barbuda where he has been staying after fleeing India.

He was detained in neighbouring island country of Dominica for illegal entry on May 24 after a possible romantic escapade with his rumoured girlfriend.

His lawyers alleged that he was abducted from Jolly Harbour in Antigua on May 23 by policemen looking like Antiguan and Indian and brought to Dominica on a boat.

While seeking bail in Dominica, Choksi had attached his medical reports including CT scan reports which showed "mildly worsening hematoma".

The doctors recommend an urgent review of his medical condition by a neurologist and a neurosurgical consultant.

"The services are not currently available on the island. All courtesies extended to him would be greatly appreciated," the CT scan report dated June 29 signed by Doctors Yerandy Galle Gutierrez and Rene Gilbert Veranes of Princess Margaret Hospital of Dominica had said.

Going by medical reports, the high court allowed Choksi to return to Antigua for his treatment.
By PTI

KOLKATA: The CBI on Thursday claimed in the Calcutta High Court that it could not physically produce the four leaders who were arrested in the Narada sting tapes case before the designated court on May 17, owing to the presence of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in its office and that of a large "unruly" crowd outside.

The central agency, which has made a transfer application before the high court for shifting the Narada case to itself, also pointed to the presence of the state's Law Minister Moloy Ghatak in the Bichar Bhavan premises, within which the CBI court is located, quoting media reports.

It said in the counter-affidavit in reply to the affidavits in-opposition filed by the West Bengal government that state ministers Firhad Hakim, Subrata Mukherjee, Trinamool Congress MLA Madan Mitra and former Kolkata mayor Sovan Chatterjee had to be produced before the designated court through the virtual mode due to the prevailing situation in and outside the CBI office, where the four accused were kept following their arrest on May 17.

The CBI also termed as false the state government's pleadings that the agency's office and its officers were not under siege.

In its affidavit, the CBI said some time after the four leaders were brought to its office at the Nizam Palace complex, the chief minister arrived there and demanded unconditional release of the arrested accused persons and dared its officials to arrest her as well.

"The chief minister remained present in that chamber for nearly six hours and caused hindrance to CBI officers in discharging their duties," it said.

The CBI went on to add that "huge numbers of unruly mob gathered at the main gate of Nizam Palace, gheraoed the premises and started pelting stones".

The five-judge bench will hear the matter again on August 16.

The bench had earlier allowed CBI to file affidavits in-reply after taking on record affidavits by the state government, Banerjee and Ghatak on a direction by the Supreme Court.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday welcomed the Supreme Court's observation on the sedition law as it asked the Centre whether the legislation was still needed 75 years after Independence.

Expressing concern over the "enormous misuse" of the colonial-era penal law, a Supreme Court bench headed by Chief Justice N V Ramana asked the Centre why it was not repealing the provision used by the British to "silence" people like Mahatma Gandhi to suppress the freedom movement.

Several Opposition leaders and civil society activists hailed the apex court for the observation and expressed the hope that the legislation would be "thrown out".

"We welcome this observation by the Supreme Court," Rahul Gandhi said on Twitter.

Swaraj India president Yogendra Yadav tweeted, "Yes, that's the question. Case in point: Yesterday, sedition case was registered against farmers in Sirsa for breaking the windshield of a minister's vehicle! That's what this law is being used for."

Human Rights activist Vrinda Grover said all political parties have used the offence of sedition to intimidate and silence citizens exercising their fundamental rights.

"Not only England, but the legislature in many commonwealth countries like Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Scotland have repealed the colonial crime of sedition.

Congress was in power in the Centre for decades with a majority in Parliament; but did not strike down Sec 124A IPC.

Each political party likes to deploy this offence from its arsenal," she said.

She said multiple cases of sedition were filed against the fisherfolk community in Tamil Nadu protesting against the construction of the nuclear plant in Kudankulam, adjacent to their villages, during UPA rule.

The Supreme Court bench, which agreed to examine pleas challenging the constitutionality of section 124A (sedition) in the IPC, also issued notice to the Centre.

"We do not know why the government is not taking a decision. Your government has been getting rid of stale laws," it said.

The non-bailable provision makes any speech or expression that "brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the Government established by law in India" a criminal offence punishable with a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
Biswajit Dhar By

A couple of weeks ago, the Department of Commerce announced the heartening news that in the first quarter of the current financial year (April-June 2021), merchandise exports were $95 billion, the highest ever for a quarter in Indias history. In fact, the earlier high of nearly $90 billion was recorded in the immediately preceding quarter, namely, January to March. Thus, this positive augury could help in a complete turnaround of exports in the current financial year, after it had slumped by over 7% to settle below the psychological barrier of $300 billion in 2020-21.

The government has set an ambitious export target of $400 billion for 2021-22 and if this target does materialise, the eagerly awaited economic turnaround could be well on its way. A sustained rise in exports would bring into play foreign demand as an important factor for stimulating the economy, which could compensate, to a degree, the persistent sluggishness in domestic demand.

The most obvious factor stimulating Indias exports is the strong economic rebound being experienced by major economies, especially from the beginning of 2021. The US, Indias largest export destination, grew by 6.4% in the first quarter of the year and recent forecasts suggest that the worlds largest economy could grow by 10-11% in the second quarter. The Chinese economy had put behind the pandemic-induced downturn in 2020, and it began 2021 with an 18.3% growth in the first quarter. Though its second quarter growth has slowed down, the second largest economy still grew by almost 8%.

These growth numbers have been reflected in Indias export numbers. Exports to the US grew by nearly 20% in January-March of 2021 on a year-on-year basis, while the corresponding figure for China was nearly 61%. Some may argue that January-March of 2020 was an abnormal period for China as it was in the midst of a severe coronavirus wave and strict lockdown was in place. However, even if the level of Indias exports to China in a normal pre-Covid quarter is taken as the baseline, exports in January-March 2021 were significantly higher.

What is important to note here is that during the Financial Year 2020-21, Indias exports to China increased almost 28%, the highest ever in a single year. As a result, China, along with Hong Kong, emerged as Indias third largest export destination. But more importantly, the northern neighbour is now Indias largest trade partner, also because imports from China had remained unchanged. Interestingly, these developments have occurred during a year in which anti-China sentiments were at their peak following the border skirmishes between the two countries. There is thus an important message that India-China trade trends send outmarkets are seldom influenced by political headwinds and market forces would exploit every opportunity that exists.

While the big picture regarding exports looks promising, it would be useful to drill a bit deeper to understand how much of the impulses provided by increasing exports would translate into meaningful job creation and, therefore, higher incomes. Data from the previous financial year, especially the last quarter of 2020-21, do provide the trends that are quite useful for making this assessment.

Although Indias exports registered the second steepest fall in the past two decades, next only to the 15.5% decline in 2015-16, three sectors, namely, ores and minerals, agriculture and allied products, and base metals, primarily iron and steel, registered impressive export growth, of 41%, 24% and 16%, in that order. During the January-March quarter, exports of most sectors bounced back, but the aforementioned three sectors exporting raw materials and intermediate products registered even higher export growth, of 95.4%, 43.6% and 49.5%.

The composition of exports to China mirrors the big picture. Indias expanding export basket of agricultural commodities to China included cereals, oil seeds and vegetable oils, while exports of iron ore, and iron and steel continued to be the two largest product categories, as they have been for several years. It may be noted that raw materials and intermediates accounted for over two-thirds of Indias exports to China, while finished products have an overwhelming presence in Indias imports.



Despite its robust growth, exports may not bring adequate benefits to the Indian economy simply because raw materials and intermediates are driving this growth, which is tantamount to exporting jobs. Indias interests would have been much better served if the domestic manufacturing sector had utilised them, providing in the process the much-needed fillip to job creation in the country. The value of creating jobs at this juncture is extremely crucial as according to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy, Indias employment rate has been hovering well below 40%.

Biswajit Dhar

Professor, Centre for Economic Studies and Planning, School of Social Sciences, JNU

(bisjit@gmail.com)
Sunil Patil By

Express News Service

BELAGAVI: Belagavi based Jeevan Rekha hospital has come up to conduct clinical trials of another Covid-19 vaccine. If everything goes as planned, the hospital will conduct the clinical trials of the vaccine developed by the French pharmaceutical company Sanofi in the next ten days.

Sanofi has already received permission from drug regulators to conduct clinical trials in India. It has decided to conduct the trials in thirteen countries including India.

Belagavi based Jeevan Rekha Hospital has been chosen for the trials and it will be among one of the ten places in India where the trials will be held.

Jeevan Rekha hospital has already conducted clinical trials of the Covaxin vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech last year. About one thousand volunteers had participated in the trials which were held in three phases.

Later, this hospital was also chosen by the Zydus Cadila company to get conduct the trials of their ZyCov-D vaccine. The hospital conducted the trials of this vaccine to ten girls and ten boys of the age category 12 to 18 years in the first dose in the month of May and scheduled for the second dose on the 28th day and the third dose on the 52nd day.

The hospital officials have appealed to the people of Belagavi aged above 18 years to participate as volunteers in the clinical trials of the vaccine. However, only those people who have not taken doses of Covaxin or Covishield vaccine are eligible to participate in this trial.

Speaking to The New Indian Express, Dr Amit Bhate, director of Jeevan Rekha hospital said 'This US-based vaccine is only for the adults. The number of volunteers required for the two-dose trials is yet to be informed. However, We have appealed the persons aged above 18 years and who are not vaccinated yet to enrol for this trial' he added.

ALSO WATCH:
By Express News Service

BENGALURU: After a prolonged delay, Karnataka is all set to host the much anticipated Global Investors Meet in February next year. The Karnataka cabinet on Thursday approved the dates for the meet that will be held under the banner of 'Invest Karnataka' from February 9-11. This is the first such meet that the state will be hosting post the COVID-19 pandemic. The meet was supposed to be held in 2020 but was derailed by the pandemic.

"The cabinet has decided to hold the Global Investors' Meet in Bengaluru's Palace Grounds next year. The meet under the banner of 'Invest Karnataka 2022' will be held for three days between February 9 and 11. Details of the same will be finalised later," said Basavaraj Bommai, Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs while briefing the media on cabinet decisions on Thursday.

The meet will take place after six years. Karnataka hosted its fourth edition of the GIM in 2016, which concluded with 1,201 approved projects and MoUs valued at Rs 3,08,810 crore. After 2016, HD Kumaraswamy had announced a GIM in 2019 but the plan was shelved with the collapse of his coalition government with the Congress.

When the BJP came to power in the state, CM BS Yediyurappa had announced a GIM in 2020 while inaugurating a curtain-raiser event in Davos at the World Economic Forum but the pandemic put the plans on the backburner. After postponing the event at least twice owing to the pandemic, Karnataka will finally see preparations for the Global Investors' Meet going on the floors soon.
Kiran Balannanavar By

Express News Service

HOSAPETE: As tourist centres across the country are bustling with people after the lockdown restrictions were lifted, the scene is no different at Hampi. In the last 15 days, over 20,000 tourists have visited the world heritage site and there have been a number of violations of Covid-appropriate behavior, which could turn Hampi into a super-spreader area.

Visitors are seen going around not wearing masks and without maintaining social distancing. The electric buggies that operate in Hampi too are packed with visitors. A tourist guide working at Hampi said that only a few security guards have been deployed to check whether tourists are following Covid norms. But most of the tourists do not listen to these guards and continue to break the rules. The local people are worried about the rush of people here, he added.

Hampi World Heritage Area Management Authority (HWHAMA) Commissioner Siddarameshawar said strict action will be taken against those not following the guidelines. We have appointed teams to keep a check on tourists not following guidelines. But as the area is vast, it is difficult to keep a close eye. Ultimately its the responsibility of tourists who visit Hampi. If Covid19 cases increase, the administration may think of temporarily closing or restricting entry once again, he noted.

Prabhu Patil, a social activist from Hampi, said that locals are happy that business is coming back to normal, but they are worried that the administration has not been strict in ensuring that the tourists adhere to Covid rules.

Several tourists are coming from Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, where the cases are still high. Officials should check RT-PCR test reports or vaccination certificates more thoroughly, he added. Since the pandemic broke out last year, Hampi was shut twice for tourists. During the second wave of Covid, Hampi was closed for more than two months. After the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) announced the opening of monuments in Karnataka in mid-June, the tourist numbers went up.Authorities are planning to set up more homestays near Hampi. The locals will also be roped in, Prabhu Patil said.
Unnikrishnan S By

Express News Service

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: People awaiting the second dose of Covid vaccination are in a fix as they are not able to book slots even though the health department claims that it has managed to steady the supply. While there is no denying the fact that the frugal supply from the Centre has dragged the pace of inoculation, residents complained that they are being denied vaccines though the vaccination centres are functioning.

Many are worried that they might miss the window period between 84 days and 103 days after the first dose. However, the health experts have allayed the concerns saying there would not be any problem with the delay. But reports of new infections and possibility of a third wave of Covid have increased the concerns of people.

I have sought the help of others to book slots for my second dose, but these slots disappear in a matter of a few minutes. The slots, if at all open, are in far-flung locations. When I became convinced I cannot book online, I approached the ward member. Though he says vaccines are not available, I can see the rush for vaccination at the public health centre near my house, said Sreekumar Pillai, a retired schoolteacher and a Palamel panchayat resident.

The vaccine shortage has led tech-savvy people to book slots in far-flung locations using various digital tools. Often, these vaccination centres are located in rural areas where people are less likely to use digital tools for booking. The health department took steps to distribute vaccines with the involvement of local bodies. However, the opposition parties accuse the government of showing political favouritism in vaccine distribution. It has led to a slew of protests in various local bodies in the districts.

Offline booking is done through tokens distributed by ward members. But there is a huge demand as the vaccine is in short supply, leading to accusations of favouritism. Distribution is controlled by CPM members. The beneficiaries are chosen selectively without the knowledge of ward members from other parties, said Justin Jacob, a ward member in the same panchayat.

The Kerala Government Medical Officers Association (KGMOA) has suggested to the health department to avoid favouritism by drawing a list based on house numbers. It suggested that the health committee of the local body or the Rapid Response Team shall also consider the age, comorbidities and social backwardness of people in distributing vaccines. The state chapter of Indian Medical Association has also lashed out at the vaccination policy of the state government saying that the slow pace of distribution would be disastrous in the event of a third wave.

Vaccination status of eligible population(above 18 years)

First dose: 44%

Second dose: 17%

Age group - No. of people yet to take 2nd dose 45 years and above

80,60,028 (71%)

18-44 years 1,49,03,404 (99%)

Major hindrances

Short supply of vaccine

Digital divide affecting online slot booking

Accusations of politicisation and favouritism in choosing beneficiaries at the ward level

Token system causing crowding at vaccine centres

Source: DHS, as of July 13 midnight
By PTI

KOCHI: Two Maldivian nationals -- Mariyam Rasheeda and Fouziyya Hassan -- who were also arrested in the ISRO espionage case in 1994 along with scientist Nambi Narayanan, have moved the Kerala High Court opposing the anticipatory bail plea of two former Kerala police officers who were involved in their arrest and detention back then.

The two women have alleged that the joint plea moved by S Vijayan and Thampi S Durga Dutt "contains false contentions" and if any relief was granted, then justice would be denied to the Maldives nationals.

The two former officers have sought anticipatory bail in a case registered by CBI for various offences, including criminal conspiracy, kidnapping and fabrication of evidence,under the Indian Penal Code, in connection with arrest and detention of Narayanan.

The 18 accused in the CBI case includes then Intelligence Bureau (IB) officers also. In their petition, filed through advocate Prasad Gandhi, the two women have sought to be impleaded in the anticipatory bail plea of the two former police officers which is likely to be heard on July 19.

Earlier on July 7, CBI had opposed the plea of the two former Kerala police officers, saying they falsely implicated Narayanan in a "concocted case" which led to delay in development of India's cryogenic technology.

CBI has said that the offences against the two accused were serious in nature as they both "played an active role and concocted an espionage case in pursuance of the conspiracy with the other accused in the FIR (registered by CBI) and other unknown persons".

Vijayan and Dutt were part of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) which arrested the scientist and the two women.

The Supreme Court had on April 15 ordered that the report of a high-level committee on the role of erring police officials in the espionage case relating to Narayanan be given to the CBI and directed the agency to conduct further investigation on the issue.

The three-member committee, headed by former apex court judge Justice (retd) D K Jain, was appointed by the top court in 2018 after acquitting Narayanan in the case. The Supreme Court had also directed the Kerala government to pay Rs 50 lakh as compensation for compelling Narayanan to undergo "immense humiliation".

The espionage case pertained to allegations of transfer of certain confidential documents on India's space programme to foreign countries by two scientists and four others, including two Maldivian women. The CBI, in its probe that time, had held that top police officials in Kerala were responsible for Narayanan's illegal arrest.

The case also had a political fallout, with a section in Congress targeting the then Chief Minister late K Karunakaran over the issue, that eventually led to his resignation.
By AFP

KABUL: The Taliban have offered a three-month ceasefire in exchange for the release of 7,000 insurgent prisoners, an Afghan government negotiator said Thursday, as the militant group continues a sweeping offensive across the country.

"It is a big demand," said Nader Nadery, a key member of the government team involved in peace talks with the Taliban, adding the insurgents also demanded the removal of their leaders' names from a United Nations blacklist.

It was not immediately clear how the government would react to the ceasefire offer, which comes as the United States accelerates the pace of a troop withdrawal due to be finished by August 31.

Nadery's revelation came as Pakistan security forces used tear gas Thursday to disperse hundreds of people who tried to force their way across the border from Chaman to Spin Boldak in Afghanistan.

The border was closed Wednesday by Pakistan officials after the Taliban seized Spin Boldak and raised insurgent flags above the town.

"An unruly mob of about 400 people tried to cross the gate forcefully. They threw stones, which forced us to use tear gas," said a security official on the Pakistan side.

He said around 1,500 people had gathered at the border Wednesday waiting to cross.

Jumadad Khan, a senior government official in Chaman, said the situation was now "under control".

An Afghan Taliban source told AFP that hundreds of people had also gathered on the Afghan side, hoping to travel in the other direction.

"We are talking to Pakistani authorities. A formal meeting to open the border is scheduled for today, and hopefully, it will open in a day or two," he said.

The crossing provides direct access to Pakistan's Balochistan province -- where the Taliban's top leadership has been based for decades -- along with an unknown number of reserve fighters who regularly enter Afghanistan to help bolster their ranks.

A major highway leading from the border connects to Pakistan's commercial capital Karachi and its sprawling port on the Arabian Sea, which is considered a linchpin for Afghanistan's billion-dollar heroin trade that has provided a crucial source of revenue for the Taliban's war chest over the years.

- 'Ceasefire to consolidate power' -

Spin Boldak was the latest in a string of border crossings and dry ports seized by the insurgents in recent weeks as they look to choke off revenues much-needed by Kabul while also filling their own coffers.

"The bazaar is closed and traders are scared that the situation will turn bad," Mohammad Rasoul, a trader in Spin Boldak, told AFP by phone.

"They fear that their products will be looted. There are scores of opportunists waiting to loot."

Muska Dastageer, a lecturer at the American University of Afghanistan, said the Taliban ceasefire offer was a likely attempt by them to consolidate the positions they have gained so swiftly in recent weeks.

"A ceasefire now would effectively prohibit ANDSF from retaking the crucial border points which Taliban have captured recently," she tweeted, referring to Afghan forces.

"I think the timing of this ceasefire offer has more to do with their wish to consolidate power over these areas."

At least one Kabul resident said the Taliban could not be trusted.

"Last year the government released 5,000 Taliban prisoners but their release did not bring peace," Ahmad Jawed told AFP.

"Instead most of them are now fighting government forces.

"Now they are asking for 7,000 prisoners to be released. That is a big number."

Authorities last year released more than 5,000 Taliban prisoners to help kick start peace talks in Doha, but negotiations have so far failed to reach any political settlement, and the latest offensives suggest the insurgents are now set on a military victory.
By Associated Press

AMSTERDAM: A top official at the European Medicines Agency said a decision on whether to recommend that Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine be authorised for children is expected late next week.

If approved, it would be the first such license for the shot's use in children globally.

At a press briefing on Thursday, Dr. Marco Cavaleri, the EU drug regulator's head of vaccines strategy, said its expert committee was currently evaluating Moderna's application to extend the use of its coronavirus vaccine for children 12 to 17 years old.

"We expect that the committee will reach a conclusion by the end of next week," he said.

Moderna's vaccine was given the green light for use in anyone 18 and over across the 27-nation European Union in January.

ALSO READ | Pfizer, Moderna vaccines cut COVID-19 risk by 91 per cent: Study

It has also been licensed in countries including Britain, Canada and the US, but so far its use has not been extended to children.

To date, the vaccine made by Pfizer-BioNTech is the only one approved for children under 18 in Europe and North America.

The EMA said last week there was a -- possible link -- between the vaccines made by Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech to very rare cases of chest and heart inflammation, mostly in younger adult men.

They said the effects were mostly temporary and that the benefits of vaccination still far outweighed the risks of COVID-19.

Last week, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the EU has now delivered enough vaccines to immunize 70 per cent of its adult population and many countries are looking to inoculate children, despite the significantly lower risk they face from COVID-19.

Although Britain's regulatory agency has authorized the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children, its vaccine advisory group has yet to recommend that teens be immunized.

Moderna has also filed for its vaccine to be licensed for younger teens and children in the US.

ALSO WATCH:

Many public health officials say rich countries should donate their vaccines once their adult populations are covered, pointing out that millions of people in developing countries at high risk of the disease, including health workers and the elderly, have yet to receive a single shot.

In June, WHO's vaccines director Dr Kate O'Brien said that vaccinating children against COVID-19 is not a high priority given the extremely limited vaccine supplies globally.

While more than 3 billion doses of COVID-19 shots have been administered, fewer than 2 per cent have been in poor countries, where the easier-to-spread delta variant is now fueling explosive surges.
By PTI

KARACHI: Two Pakistani soldiers, including a captain, were killed in a terrorist attack in the restive south-western province of Balochistan on Thursday, officials said.

The captain and sepoy were at Khuda Baksh Bazaar in the coastal town of Pasni when the militants targeted them with an improvised explosive device, the Inter-Services Public Relations said in a statement.

It said a search operation was underway to apprehend the perpetrators.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

ALSO READ | Traces of explosives 'confirmed', terrorism can't be ruled out: Pakistan on bus blast

In recent months, terrorists and separatists have carried out a number of attacks on security forces and in public places in Balochistan province.

On July 1, six people, including security officials, were injured in a blast at a park in Quetta.

In the end of June, five Frontier Corps soldiers were gunned down by terrorists in Sibi district's Sangan area.

Earlier in June, four soldiers, including a junior commissioned officer, were killed in a bomb blast on the Margat-Quetta road in the province.
By Associated Press

BERLIN: The head of the World Health Organisation acknowledged it was premature to rule out a potential link between the COVID-19 pandemic and a laboratory leak, and he said Thursday he is asking China to be more transparent as scientists search for the origins of the coronavirus.

In a rare departure from his usual deference to powerful member countries, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said getting access to raw data had been a challenge for the international team that traveled to China earlier this year to investigate the source of COVID-19.

The first human cases were identified in the Chinese city of Wuhan.

Tedros told reporters that the UN health agency based in Geneva is asking actually China to be "transparent, open and cooperate, especially on the information, raw data that we asked for at the early days of the pandemic".

He said there had been a "premature push" to rule out the theory that the virus might have escaped from a Chinese government lab in Wuhan - undermining WHO's own March report, which concluded that a laboratory leak was extremely unlikely.

ALSO READ | WHO warns of 'early stages' of COVID-19 third wave amid Delta variant surge

"I was a lab technician myself, I'm an immunologist, and I have worked in the lab, and lab accidents happen," Tedros said.

"It's common."

In recent months, the idea that the pandemic started somehow in a laboratory -- and perhaps involved an engineered virus -- has gained traction, especially with President Joe Biden ordering a review of US intelligence to assess the possibility in May.

China has struck back aggressively, arguing that attempts to link the origins of COVID-19 to a lab were politically motivated and suggesting that the virus might have started abroad.

At WHO's annual meeting of health ministers in the spring, China said that the future search for COVID-19's origins should continue -- in other countries.

Most scientists suspect that the coronavirus originated in bats, but the exact route by which it first jumped into people -- via an intermediary animal or in some other way -- has not yet been determined.

It typically takes decades to narrow down the natural source of an animal virus like Ebola or SARS.

Tedros said that checking what happened, especially in our labs, is important" to nailing down if the pandemic had any laboratory links.

"We need information, direct information on what the situation of this lab was before and at the start of the pandemic," the WHO chief said, adding that China's cooperation was critical.

"If we get full information, we can exclude (the lab connection)."

Throughout the pandemic, Tedros has repeatedly praised China for its speed and transparency despite senior WHO officials internally griping about obfuscation from their Chinese counterparts.

ALSO WATCH:

Last year, The Associated Press found that WHO was frustrated by a lack of details from China during the early stages of the coronavirus' spread and showed that China was clamping down on the hidden hunt for the pandemic's origins.

Numerous public health experts have also called for an independent examination of COVID-19's origins, arguing WHO does not have the political clout to conduct such a forensic analysis and that the UN agency has failed after more than a year to extract critical details from China.

Any WHO-led mission to China also requires government approval for all experts who travel to the country, as well as permission to visit field sites and final approval on any trip report.

WHO emergencies chief Dr Michael Ryan has previously said the agency works by consensus and cannot compel countries to cooperate.

Tedros' appeal for transparency was echoed by German Health Minister Jens Spahn, who urged Chinese officials to allow the investigation into the origins of the virus to proceed.

"We do appreciate the cooperation of the Chinese government so far for the first mission," Spahn said.

"But that's not yet enough."
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COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)  Twenty states are supporting South Carolina's defense of a new abortion law, arguing in an amicus brief that a federal judge was wrong to pause the entire measure instead of just the provision facing a court challenge.

In a filing Tuesday with the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on behalf of the states, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall argued that U.S. District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis overstepped her authority when she put the entire abortion law on hold, rather than just the portion being challenged.

The judge's ruling, Marshall wrote, treads on South Carolinas sovereign ability to decide for itself the purposes of its legislation and aggrandizes the judicial power by treating the courts injunction of the challenged provision as erasing it entirely so the whole Act collapses.

The arguments mirror those of South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster, a Republican who signed the measure into law earlier this year. The state's attorneys wrote in an appellate filing earlier this month that Lewis decision to halt the entire measure during litigation oversteps the bounds of federal judicial power.

McMasters brief asked the appellate judges to lift a lower courts injunction on the  South Carolina Fetal Heartbeat and Protection from Abortion Act.

The law requires doctors to perform ultrasounds to check for a heartbeat in the fetus, which can typically be detected about six weeks after conception. If cardiac activity is detected, the abortion can only be performed if the pregnancy was caused by rape or incest, or the mothers life was in danger.

Planned Parenthood attorneys sued immediately, and the entire law has been blocked from taking effect during the lawsuit.

The states filing in support of South Carolina all have in place laws similar to the South Carolina laws the district court enjoined, Marshall wrote.

In halting the whole law, Lewis presumed that the sole purpose of other provisions in the law  like requiring an ultrasound to be performed before an abortion  was to ban abortions of unborn children with heartbeats, Marshall wrote.

That, he continued, would be news not only to the South Carolina General Assembly, but to many other state legislatures that have enacted similar ultrasound requirements without South Carolinas additional regulation.

The states that signed onto the amicus brief are: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah and West Virginia. All but three have Republican governors.

Several other groups have submitted filings in support of South Carolina, including the Southern Baptist Convention and an anti-abortion group of obstetricians and gynecologists.

Attorneys for Planned Parenthood have not responded in court.

Actions by an even higher court could also dictate outcomes in this case. On Tuesday, Lewis ruled she would stay further motions following the U.S. Supreme Courts decision to take a case from Mississippi  which wants to enforce an abortion ban after 15 weeks of pregnancy. The court will likely hear that case in the fall, with a decision likely in 2022.

About a dozen other states have passed similar or more restrictive abortion bans, which could take effect if the U.S. Supreme Court were to overturn Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 court decision supporting abortion rights. Federal law supersedes state law.

More than 90% of abortions take place in the first 13 weeks of a womans pregnancy, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Opponents have argued many women do not know they are pregnant at six weeks, especially if they are not trying to conceive. And, they argue, with such an early deadline, the law gives women little time to consider whether to have an abortion.

___

Meg Kinnard can be reached at http://twitter.com/MegKinnardAP.
NORWALK  Norwalk resident and father to two Naramake Elementary School students, Tyler Fairbairn is looking to be a voice for the citys parents in his bid for a District C Common Council seat.

Fairbairn, a Democrat and an East Norwalk resident of seven years, announced his candidacy Monday.

Originally from Washington, Conn., Fairbairn and his wife moved from New York City when she became pregnant with the couples first child, Abbie, who is now 9.

Fairbairn said he chose this year to run for the council as his term on the Naramake School Governance Council came to an end and he sought other ways to volunteer in the community.

I think the next few years are going to be critical for the schools as well as development in Norwalk, and wanted to offer my time and background, Fairbairn said.

With a background in urban development, Fairbairn is director of community development for the town of Greenwich, where he administers community development block grants. His work is focused on developing affordable housing and creating community-centered plans that align federal grant funding with nonprofit partners who serve a range of vulnerable, low-income residents.

I believe that my background in urban planning, community development and involvement in the schools through the SGC are well suited to the work that needs to be done over the coming years on the Common Council to ensure that the City is working for all stakeholders, Fairbairn said.

Fairbairn has worked with Department of Housing and Urban Development programs for the entirety of his 11-year career in municipal government.

Outside of work, Fairbairn was on the Naramake SGC for multiple years and served as the co-chair for the 2020-21 school year. In addition to Abbie, he has two other young children: Charlie, 7, and Phoebe, 2.

The last two budget cycles have been disheartening, as the discussion has seemed to pit parents versus non-parents, Fairbairn said. I dont think it has to be that way. Norwalks schools are such an asset, and providing the amazing teachers and other staff with the resources they need to help every student is so critically important.

While new to the political sphere, Fairbairn has worked for large Connecticut municipalities for the entirety of his career, which included working with city legislators to translate community input into plans that address the needs of the most vulnerable residents, he said.

abigail.brone@hearstmediact.com
President Joe Biden and German Chancellor Angela Merkel met in Washington on Thursday in what was likely the European leader's final appearance at the White House before she steps down from her long-held position this fall.

The ongoing dispute between the United States and Germany over a Russian gas pipeline, called Nord Stream 2, played out between the two leaders in the Oval Office on Thursday, according to Biden.

"While I reiterated my concerns about Nord Stream 2, Chancellor Merkel and I are absolutely united in our conviction that Russia must not be allowed to use energy as a weapon to coerce or threaten its neighbors," Biden said during a joint press conference alongside Merkel.

"My view on Nord Stream 2 has been known for some time. Good friends can disagree, but by the time I became president, it was 90% completed and imposing sanctions did not seem to make any sense," he continued.

Instead, Biden said, the two leaders "have asked our teams to look at practical measures we could take together, and whether or not Europe's energy security, Ukraine's security are actually strengthened or weakened based on Russian actions."

Climate change, Covid-19 vaccines, Russian cyber attacks, Ukraine and shoring up their democracies were also topics on the agenda, an official said.

The visit came just three months before Merkel leaves her role as chancellor of Germany in October, after having served in the position for more than 15 years. Elections to replace the "chancellor of the free world" are in September.

Biden is the fourth US president with whom she's interacted. And on Thursday, Merkel said this marks her 23rd visit to Washington since becoming chancellor.

Administration officials have been consistent in describing the visit as a "working" session that is forward looking, despite Merkel's limited time remaining atop the German government. But after a decade-and-a-half of visiting Washington, her final trip to meet a US president was a moment to reflect on her legacy.

Upon her arrival in the Oval Office, Biden called Merkel a "personal friend, as well as a friend to the United States." And during their joint press conference, the President said he'd miss her.

"Madam Chancellor, I know that the partnership between the Germany and United States will only continue to grow stronger on the foundation you helped to build. On a personal note, I must tell you I'll miss seeing you at our summits. I truly will," Biden said.

Merkel started the day with a breakfast hosted by Vice President Kamala Harris at the Naval Observatory. She is the first foreign leader Harris has hosted at her residence since moving in.

They discussed "domestic and international issues including current challenges, history between the two counties and future endeavors," according to a White House official.

Following the news that flooding has led to several deaths in Germany, Merkel called the floods a "catastrophe."

"Here in Washington, my thoughts are also always with the people in our homeland," Merkel said Thursday morning. "Peaceful places are going through a catastrophe in these hours, one can say a tragedy. Heavy rainfall and floods are very inadequate words to describe this -- it is therefore really a catastrophe.''

Biden and Merkel met one-on-one in the Oval Office before an expanded session with aides and a concluding joint press conference. Biden and his wife will host Merkel and her husband for dinner at the White House with a "range of individuals" who have been supporters of Germany. House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, a California Republican, is expected to attend the dinner, which will come hours after he meets with former President Donald Trump at his New Jersey golf club.

Merkel will also receive an honorary degree from Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies while in the states -- marking her 18th honorary degree so far.

The leaders unveiled a "Washington Declaration" that spells out a joint vision for cooperating on difference policy challenges, and a shared commitment to human rights and the results democratic leadership provides for the world. They also announced other initiatives, including a "futures forum" that brings together Americans and Germans from different sectors; an economic dialogue; and a climate and energy partnership.

The meeting came shortly after the White House recently announced Biden would nominate Amy Gutmann to serve as the US ambassador to Germany. If confirmed she would be the first woman to serve in the role.

A warm relationship with crucial sticking points

So far, signs point to renewed warm relations between the two countries following four years of Trump's "America First" approach to diplomacy. The approach served as a sharp departure from the Obama administration era of foreign policy -- when Merkel regarded then-President Barack Obama a "partner and friend."

But notably, Merkel has maintained that there will still be arguments between Germany and the US with Biden serving as President.

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"Don't think that from tomorrow there will only be harmony between us," she told reporters a day after Biden's inauguration. "There will also be arguments about how best to do things for our two countries."

Biden and Merkel have met several times, and Thursday's White House meeting will be their second in-person encounter since Biden was sworn in.

Following the G7 summit in the UK earlier this spring, Merkel indicated that Biden brought "new momentum" to the gathering. She said being able to meet Biden was "obviously important because he stands for the commitment to multilateralism which we were missing in recent years" -- an apparent nod to Trump's approach. She's also invited the President to Germany.

Biden and Merkel have regularly interacted with one another on the world's stage since the Obama years.

While serving as vice president, Biden undertook a number of foreign policy issues as part of his portfolio, traveling to the Munich Security Conference every year and appearing alongside Merkel. At the time, Biden made known his differences with Germany over whether to send weapons to Ukraine.

Obama, meanwhile, visited Germany a half dozen times while in office -- excluding stops at Ramstein Air Force Base, a common pit stop for Air Force One during extended travel.

But despite their commonalities, Biden and Merkel still have a number of differences that will be on the table when they meet in Washington on Thursday.

The US believes the Nord Stream 2 pipeline project, which transports natural gas from Russia directly to Germany underneath the Baltic Sea, will provide Moscow undue leverage over the European energy sector. But the White House doesn't expect to reach a resolution when it's brought up Thursday.

Biden will raise his "long-standing concerns" over Nord Stream 2 with Merkel, including his desire to ensure it isn't used for coercive purposes against Ukraine, according to one official.

Instead, officials believe Biden's decision earlier this year to waive congressional sanctions on Germany has allowed "diplomatic space" for talks between the two sides, even if no resolution on the thorny issue has been found.

Matthias Matthijs, a senior fellow for Europe at the Council on Foreign Relations and an associate professor at Johns Hopkins University's School of Advanced International Studies, said it's clear that Germany "wants to move ahead with the pipeline and wants to reassure the US that this won't give (President Vladimir) Putin's Russia the opportunity to blackmail the EU."

"The Germans are hoping to get the basic go-ahead on (Nord Stream 2), a commitment from the US that it can increase its exports of Liquefied Natural Gas to Europe, and will want to avoid to get drawn into a new Cold War with China, where Berlin has its own commercial interests," he added. Matthijis also said the Germans are hoping for the US to lift its hundreds of tariffs on the European Union, but it's an area Biden is less likely to engage.

China is also likely to expose differences between the two leaders. Merkel has advocated a more cooperative approach to Beijing -- her country's most important trading partner -- even as Biden works to consolidate western support for a more confrontational approach.

Those differences played out last month at the G7 summit, though Merkel joined other European leaders in signing onto a final statement calling out China's forced labor practices.

Biden has been clear in talks with Merkel and other leaders of the need to "engage China from a position of strength," an official said -- a message he'll repeat on Thursday.

Still, the diplomatic approach by the Biden administration marks a contrast to the Trump years.

During his tenure in office, Trump hammered Germany on trade and its lack of financial contributions to NATO shared defense. He moved to withdraw nearly 12,000 troops from Germany and accused Germany of being beholden to Russia because it buys energy from Moscow. And he also took to personally insulting Merkel over the phone, at one point telling her that she was "stupid."

Merkel, in turn, often spoke out about Trump's rhetoric and pushed back on Trump's assertion that Germany is a captive of Russia by referencing her own upbringing in Soviet-controlled East Germany.

Merkel will be the first European leader to visit Biden at the White House. He met with Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga in April and South Korean President Moon Jae-in in May.

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Terrill Swift, who spent 15 years in prison after being coerced into confessing to a crime he did not commit, speaks at a news conference Thursday in favor of a law that bans the deceptive interrogation of minors by law enforcement.
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Lake Metroparks announced that Best of the Bluffs will take place 1 to 4 p.m., Aug. 29, at Lake Erie Bluffs.
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Recipients of non-fraudulent unemployment overpayments can now apply for waivers
A very aggressive type of cancer has provided a team of researchers supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation with an answer to the question of which tumor cells are at risk of spreading.

Cancer treatment is sometimes complicated by the heterogeneity of the cells that form the tumor mass. The problem is how to identify the few cells that are capable of triggering metastases. Thanks to work carried out by a team of researchers supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF), we now have a better understanding of how metastases form and which cells to target in therapy.

The researchers have succeeded in identifying and characterizing the most dangerous cells in Ewing's sarcoma, a very aggressive bone cancer with high potential for spread that primarily affects children and young adults. In particular, among the very active genes of these cells the team pinpointed a gene known to be associated with a poor prognosis. More specifically, this gene promotes the diffusion of cancer cells and the formation of metastases. The work has been published in the journal Science Advances.

The finding constitutes a first step towards the development of more targeted treatments, says Ivan Stamenkovic, professor of experimental pathology at the University Hospital Lausanne (CHUV) and co-author of the paper along with assistant professor Nicolo Riggi, also at CHUV.

Identifying the gene associated with the risk of metastases opens new avenues for research. The protein corresponding to this gene could be used as a potential therapeutic target in eliminating these very aggressive cells." Ivan Stamenkovic, Professor of Experimental Pathology, University Hospital Lausanne (CHUV)

Telltale glow

To achieve this result, the scientists first had to isolate the cells that form metastases. They took tumours from patients and grew them in conditions that mimic those of the human body to create organoids, i.e. tumor models. The researchers were then able to genetically modify the tumor cells by adding a gene that causes them to express a green fluorescent protein. This gene has been modified so that it can be suppressed by a very small RNA molecule (called microRNA) produced by the cells themselves. Because the cells that form metastases produce very little of this microRNA, they continue to express fluorescent protein. As a result, they appear bright and can be identified by their fluorescent colour. "It's a tool that could be used in other types of tumours to understand the nature of aggressive cells," says Riggi.

Cancer cells are more tolerant

Ivan Stamenkovic's research project focuses on the mechanisms responsible for the formation and development of cancers. "In most cancers," says Stamenkovic, "the cells that spread are those that have retained certain properties of stem cells, unlike most of the cells that constitute the tumor mass. These stem-like cells, which are called upon to regenerate tissues, must be able to retain a high degree of flexibility. As a result, they are more tolerant of events such as genetic mutations, and thus more likely to transform into cancerous cells because their defences are partially or totally suppressed."
A recent qualitative research study conducted by the University of North Florida, in partnership with Indianan University-Purdue Indianapolis and UF Health Jacksonville, shows that black teenage girls want inclusive body types to be featured in advertising to combat teen obesity rates. Insights provided in the study are ideal for pediatricians and healthcare educators developing advertising and patient care plans to combat obesity among African American teens.

The study investigated social and cultural consequences of food consumption among African American teenage girls between the ages of 14-18 in Jacksonville, Fla., and explored best practices for anti-obesity communication in advertising. The teenagers in the study led active lifestyles and disagreed with traditional advertising that centered on a one-size-fits-all recommendation for weight management among teens like them.

Results from the study indicate preference for an inclusive body type approach that showcases advertising featuring diverse girls of different body types, races, etc., and that messaging should promote healthy lifestyles instead of a specific body-mass index measure. Utilization of social media platforms was recommended as the best communication method for message dissemination.

Promoting one-size-fits-all messaging is counterproductive and excludes important cultural factors that influence food choice, options and normative beliefs regarding food culture and body genetics. These teenage girls respond best to messages that portray them as curvy and healthy." Dr. Natalie A. Mitchell, UNF marketing professor and principal investigator of the study

Research participants reported struggling to balance their cultural food preference of soul food, often high in fat and sugar, with healthier food options. Results also revealed that the teenage girls preferred "slim thick," curvier body types, which include slim waistlines with shapely bottoms regardless of their petite, thin frames and is considered cultural capital, according to the research team.

"A driving force behind the desire for the Coca-Cola bottle frame commonly seen within the African American community is due to celebrity culture that celebrates such body types," said Mitchell.

Through in-depth interviews and photo elicitation, the girls identified celebrity body types whom they greatly admired and desired. Tiffany Haddish and Tyra Banks were the celebrities most frequently selected. Decisions were based on celebrity curvy frames and their likability.
It appears no one is safe from severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Given that SARS-CoV-2 likely developed in bats and later transmitted to humans in Wuhan, China, there has been concern over animals infecting humans. But more evidence has shown that humans are more likely to infect animals  from hamsters, gorillas to the domestic cat.

Most animals infected with SARS-CoV-2 do not develop serious illnesses like humans. But with the coronavirus evolving to become more contagious and deadly, there is a chance animals get infected and become a breeding ground for more variants.

Sarah L. Caddy, a Clinical Research Fellow in Viral Immunology and Veterinary Surgeon at the University of Cambridge, says that the possibility is likely. In collaboration with The Conversation, Dr. Caddy published an article on the World Economic Forum website that discussed the likelihood of new variants emerging from an animals coronavirus infection.

Image Credit: Garetsworkshop / Shutterstock

Two factors needed to make a variant

Variants require an opportunity to mutate. They require a high number of infections with a good number of chronic infections in immunocompromised bodies. Doing so allows the virus the time to find a beneficial mutation that makes it more transmissible or resilient against the immune system.

Evidence of animal-related SARS-CoV-2 variants

Dr. Caddy says the chances of the virus evolving in pets and going unnoticed is unlikely. In several preprint studies, researchers have randomly sampled household pets and found high antibody rates in the tested animals. In these studies, only a tiny minority of animals tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 or had these antibodies.

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So its reasonably safe to say that our household pets are unlikely to be acting as a significant reservoir of ongoing infections that could allow new variants to emerge, wrote Dr. Caddy.

While most studies on coronavirus infections in animals have been largely studied in cats and dogs, there is evidence it also occurs in wildlife species such as deer mice and the white-tailed deer.

One animal of concern is minks. In May 2020, scientists found minks infected with SARS-CoV-2 and were able to transmit the virus back to humans. In Denmark, new SARS-CoV-2 variants emerged in November 2020 and were traced back to minks. Fortunately, the variants were contained, and mink infections were brought under control.

Close up adult Mink. Image Credit: Gallinago_media / Shutterstock

Given the previous crisis, minks appear to be the animal most likely to be under constant surveillance of new variants.

Immunosuppression in animals allows a possible, but unlikely, viral evolution

Like any virus, SARS-CoV-2 thrives in bodies with weak immune systems. While coronavirus infections in animals are less severe, are their host bodies sick enough to help the virus evolve?

Animals appear to get less severe of infection than humans. As a result, they dont need the extensive hospitalization that would be needed for the virus to evolve into another variant.

For wildlife animals, having a weak immune system would threaten their overall existence. As for immunosuppression in other animals, such as wildlife, this would be a significant survival disadvantage. Its unlikely that animals with compromised immune systems would survive long enough for much evolution of an acute virus like SARS-CoV-2 to happen, wrote Dr. Caddy.

Although, there has been preliminary data suggesting animals can develop minor SARS-CoV-2 mutations. More evidence is needed, but this indicates evolving variants in animals is a possibility.

Staying wary of future infections

Dr. Cady suggests strict monitoring on animals, especially those with close proximity and exposure to humans, such as pets and farm animals.

Moving forwards, its essential that we continue surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 in all manner of animal populations.

While there is no evidence of animal-related variants, its a possibility scientists cannot afford to rule out. Moreover, if there is evidence of natural animal-animal spread or chronic infection in animals, these measures would need to be rapidly implemented to avert another crisis.
Today we'd like to say a big thank you to the Lott for their generous donation of $600,000 to the Zero Childhood Cancer Program.

Cancer remains the biggest killer of children from disease in Australia. ZERO is Australia's first precision medicine program treating children who have been given less than a 30% chance of surviving their cancer diagnosis.

Led by Children's Cancer Institute and Kids Cancer Centre at Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, ZERO brings together all major Australian clinical and research centres working in childhood cancer as well as international collaborations.

Since its national clinical trial launched in September 2017, more than 500 children and young people with high-risk cancer have been enrolled. For over 70% of these patients, the program has successfully identified a personalised treatment plan to target the specific genetic changes driving their unique cancer, in under nine weeks.

Children's Cancer Institute's Executive Director Professor Michelle Haber AM said the donation would allow more seriously ill Australian children to enrol in Zero Childhood Cancer's ground-breaking program.

Zero Childhood Cancer is about giving children smarter, targeted therapy by identifying the unique genetic changes of each child's cancer and using that to identify what drugs are going to be best placed to fight that cancer. It's about improving the outcome for every individual child and sparing the child of the side effects of other aggressive and unsuccessful treatments. It's donations like this one today that allow us to expand this program and ensure more children have access to targeted treatment." Professor Michelle Haber AM, Children's Cancer Institute's Executive Director

Nowhere does this ground-breaking program matter more than on oncology wards. Clinical Research Leader and oncologist Professor Tracey O'Brien says the possibility of new cancer treatments for children is urgently needed.

"This research program is disrupting how we think about treating childhood cancer which is very exciting. We are generating new knowledge and applying this to rapidly accelerate the use of experimental therapies where traditional chemotherapy has failed or unlikely to work. This is what every parent wants and every child with cancer deserves," says Prof O'Brien

Zero Childhood Cancer Program Leader, A/Prof Vanessa Tyrrell said Australian children battling cancer have already seen extraordinary results.

"For all the children who have had a treatment recommendation made, and for those who had the treatment administered, over 70% have had some kind of response," she explained.

"Their aggressive tumour has either been stabilised or their tumour has shrunk. I could never have imagined that we would have achieved that in the first five years of the Program. It's truly exciting.

"We're here and we do what we do because we all believe there needs to be a future where every child is able to have access to the right treatment, at the right time, the first time, every time, so zero children are dying from cancer.

The Lott's $600,000 contribution will be used to enhance the research capabilities of the Zero Childhood Cancer Program, to give every child with cancer in Australia the very best chance of survival.

The Lott Managing Director Sue van der Merwe said Australia's official lotteries was proud to continue its support of this revolutionary team on its aspirational mission of curing childhood cancer.

"Last year, we were honoured to donate $600,000 to Zero Childhood Cancer to help fund its national clinical trial, and we are thrilled to continue supporting the team on their incredible mission," she said.

"This partnership continues a long-held tradition of Australian lotteries funding vital health and medical initiatives. We're committed to giving back to the communities in which we operate and achieving better outcomes for childhood cancer is something we are particularly passionate about.

"This program is giving new hope to families and children going through an unimaginable ordeal. We want more children with cancer to have the opportunity to access personalised cancer treatment plans, and with today's $600,000 donation, along with the incredible work from the research and clinical partners, that will be possible."

The donation from The Lott, the home of Australia's official lotteries, includes some Golden Casket unclaimed prize money.

Last financial year, Australia's Official Lotteries contributed more than $1.4 billion via state lottery taxes and donations to help community initiatives, such as hospitals, health research, disaster relief and education.
Researchers in Italy have demonstrated the efficacy of using modified outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) as a vaccine to protect against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in an animal model.

These OMVs are bacteria-derived vesicles that can be engineered to incorporate different viral antigens to induce potent immune responses.

Now, Guido Grandi from the University of Trento and colleagues have shown that OMVs incorporating peptides derived from the spike protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)  the agent that causes COVID-19  elicit an effective immune response when administered to mice.

Vaccination induced neutralizing antibody titers that were sufficient to protect mice that were challenged with the original SARS-CoV-2 strain that was identified in Wuhan, China (Wuhan-1 isolate).

Furthermore, the team showed that the OMVs could be successfully engineered to induce immunity against a different SARS-CoV-2 variant.

"Altogether, given the convenience associated with ease of engineering, production and distribution, our results demonstrate that OMV-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccines can be a crucial addition to the vaccines currently available," writes Guido Grandi from the University of Trento and colleagues.

A pre-print version of the research paper is available on the bioRxiv* server, while the article undergoes peer review.

More about the vaccines available so far

The rapid rollout of vaccination protecting against SARS-CoV-2 infection represents the most promising approach to combatting the COVID-19 pandemic.

Given the continuous evolution of SARS-CoV-2 and the emergence of multiple variants of concern, an effective long-term strategy where vaccines are updated depending on the extent of antigenic drift is likely to be crucial.

More than 280 candidate vaccines are currently under different development stages, with more than 100 now being evaluated in phase 2 clinical trials.

While protein-based vaccines comprise the most significant portion of these products, messenger RNA- (mRNA) and viral vector-based vaccines were the first to receive emergency use authorization for mass rollout globally.

"As a result, the world witnessed an unprecedented technical and economical challenge, given the need to manufacture, distribute, store, and administer billions of doses of vaccines in every country," writes Grandi and colleagues.

To overcome such challenges, vaccine production needs to use easily scalable and low-cost processes to ensure immunization is available to all countries, irrespective of economic and climatic conditions.

Construction and production of OMVs carrying SARS-CoV-2 RBM antigens (A) Topology of the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 RBD and ACE2 with the indication of the two RBM polypeptides tested in this study.

Where do OMVs come in?

Over recent years, OMVs have emerged as an attractive tool capable of coupling excellent built-in adjuvanticity with an easily scalable production and purification process.

"Crucially, in addition to the simple and cost-effective set-up required to produce and purify OMVs, the antigen-decorated vesicles are extremely stable for long-term storage at room temperature, making it a convenient vaccine to distribute all over the world," says Grandi and colleagues.

What did the researchers do?

The researchers engineered OMVs that incorporated peptides from the receptor-binding motif (RBM) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. This spike RBM forms the interface with the human host cell receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) during the initial stage of the infection process.

When the team administered the OMVs to CD1 mice, all sera collected from the animals contained high levels of RBM-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies.

To test whether antibodies could also neutralize SARS-CoV-2 infection in vitro, the team performed a neutralization assay using a lentiviral vector pseudotyped with spike protein derived from the Wuhan-1 isolate.

The researchers found that the OMVs effectively neutralized these SARS-CoV-2 spike-pseudotyped vectors.

The vaccine protected mice infected with SARS-CoV-2

To test the vaccine's protective effect in vivo, the team immunized eight K18-hACE2 transgenic mice with a prime 10g dose of the OMVs or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), followed by a second dose of OMVs or PBS 14 days later. They then infected the mice intranasally with SARS-CoV-2.

By day four following infection, the PBS-treated mice had developed severe disease, while the mice treated with OMVs developed a much milder disease.

When the team tested samples taken from the lungs of the animals five days post-infection, they found that viral RNA and replicating virus could only be detected in one of four immunized mice, indicating the ability of the vaccine to prevent viral replication in the respiratory tract.

Finally, the researchers engineered OMVs incorporating RBM peptides derived from a different genetic variant of SARS-CoV-2. When mice were vaccinated with these OMVs, a similarly potent neutralization activity was observed.

A "promising candidate" for SARS-CoV-2 vaccination

Grandi and colleagues say the immunity induced by the OMV-based vaccine is sufficient to protect K18-hACE2 transgenic mice from intranasal challenge with SARS-CoV-2.

"Given the efficacy of the vaccine in the animal model, the ease of its engineering, the cost-effective production process, and the stability at room temperature, we propose the OMV-based vaccine as a promising candidate to continue the vaccination campaign against SARS-CoV-2," they conclude.

*Important Notice

bioRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information.
A new study led by the U.S. Geological Survey outlines a means to better estimate COVID-19 occurrence and trends in populations.

Currently, COVID-19 testing is primarily limited to self-selected individuals, many of whom are symptomatic or have had contact with someone who is symptomatic. While these tests are useful for individual medical treatment and contact tracing, they do not provide health officials with a complete picture of the disease across the population.

Coordinated sampling of COVID-19 is key to informing health officials as they continue their efforts to control the pandemic, permitting better predictions of disease dynamics and decisions that help limit transmission. The proposed sampling methods should also help officials determine the effectiveness of vaccines, social distancing, masks and other mitigation efforts." James Nichols, USGS scientist emeritus and lead author of the study

By bringing its unique expertise in the design of data-gathering and monitoring systems, statistical analysis and mathematical modeling to human epidemiology, the USGS provides a means to fill the current information gap in testing data. This can benefit national and local governments and health officials as they develop interventions in response to new disease variants, plan for augmented vaccination efforts and prepare for future outbreaks.

With some countries experiencing surges in cases, Nichols points out, "the proposed testing strategies can be applied within the U.S. and internationally for COVID-19 and other diseases."

One proposal in the study is to select a random sample within a population and survey those individuals for symptoms, such as elevated temperature, in order to gather more representative data on asymptomatic cases. This would help researchers estimate the proportion of symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals in the population.

The asymptomatic individuals, or a random subset of those individuals, could be tested for COVID-19 to help estimate infection probability for asymptomatic individuals in the population.

"The strategies outlined in this new research would help strengthen current testing approaches and could be done with relatively few additional tests and non-invasive surveys," said Michael Runge, a USGS scientist and a co-author of the study. "Strategic testing, based on specific objectives, can provide information valuable for decisions about both individual healthcare and protecting communities."

"It is critically important to be clear about the goal of a surveillance program," said co-author Katriona Shea, a professor of biology and alumni professor in the biological sciences at Penn State. "Without knowing exactly what you want to achieve, how can you achieve it? A surveillance program for individual outcomes would be designed differently than a program aimed to understand population level public health objectives."

Partners with the USGS in this study include Penn State, Lancaster University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, University of Oxford, Stellenbosch University, University of Warwick and the National Institutes of Health.
A new study finds forensics researchers use terms related to ancestry and race in inconsistent ways, and calls for the discipline to adopt a new approach to better account for both the fluidity of populations and how historical events have shaped our skeletal characteristics.

Forensic anthropology is a science, and we need to use terms consistently. Our study both highlights our discipline's challenges in discussing issues of ancestral origin consistently, and suggests that focusing on population affinity would be a way forward." Ann Ross, corresponding author of the study and professor of biological sciences, North Carolina State University

Race is a social construct - there's no scientific basis for it. Population affinity, in the context of forensic anthropology, is determined by the skeletal characteristics associated with groups of people. Those characteristics are shaped by historic events and forces such as gene flow, migration, and so on. What's more, these population groups can be very fluid.

In practical terms, that this means that race can be wildly misleading in a forensic context. For example, a missing person may have been listed as Black on their driver's license because of their skin color. But their skeletal remains may not indicate they were of African descent, because their bone structure may reflect other aspects of their ancestry.

"Like many disciplines, forensic anthropology has been coming to terms with issues regarding race," Ross says. "Some people in the discipline want to do away completely with assessing an individual's place of origin. Others say that conventional approaches still have value in helping to identify human remains.

"In this paper, we are recommending a third path. This study is focused on finding ways to evaluate human variation that give us valuable information in forensic and anthropological contexts, but that avoid clinging to the use of outdated defaults such as race."

In one part of the study, the researchers looked at all of the papers published in the Journal of Forensic Sciences between 2009 and 2019 that referenced ancestry, race or related terms. The goal of this content analysis was to determine if the terms were being used consistently within the field. And they were not.

"The Journal of Forensic Sciences is the flagship journal for forensic sciences in the U.S., and even there we found inconsistencies in how our field uses these terms," Ross says. "Inconsistent terminology opens the door to confusion, misunderstanding and misuse within the discipline."

In a second part of the study, the researchers used geometric morphometric data and spatial analysis methods to evaluate the validity of terms such as "European" or "African" to describe the ancestral origin of human remains.

Altogether, the researchers evaluated nine datasets, comprising data on 397 people. The datasets were of human remains collected in Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Guatemala, Panama, Puerto Rico, Peru, Spain and a population of enslaved Africans that had been buried in Cuba. All of the remains, except for those of the enslaved Africans, were from the 20th or 21st centuries.

"Regarding the data we have on the remains of enslaved Africans, we want to acknowledge the value that data collected from such samples can contribute to discussions of human variation, while also noting that the history and ethics of human skeletal collections, in general, is often dubious," Ross says. "Such body harvesting all too often occurred under the umbrella of scientific racism, without the permission of the deceased or next of kin, and disproportionately targeted marginalized populations."

In their review of recent papers, the researchers found that forensics experts often still referred to remains as being of African, Asian or European origin.

"But our analysis of these nine datasets shows that this approach is wrong, because it's not that simple," Ross says.

"Let's use Panama as an example," says Ross, who is from Panama. "There have been huge movements of people into this area from all over the world over the past 500 years: indigenous peoples who predate colonialism, colonizers from Europe, slaves from Africa, immigrants from Asia. The contemporary remains we see in Panama reflect all of those influences."

Ross also noted that the analysis of the nine datasets also highlighted a flaw in the contemporary idea of "clines." The idea of clines is basically that, while there are changes from one group of people to another, populations who are geographically close to each other are more similar than populations that are geographically distant. However, the researchers found that this assumption can be misleading.

For example, Panama and Colombia share a border, but very different historical forces have acted on Panama and Colombia in recent centuries - so the skeletal characteristics of remains from those two countries are much less similar than one would anticipate.

"All of this is important for multiple reasons, such as taking meaningful steps to reduce racism in our field, and ensuring that we are communicating clearly with each other within the discipline," Ross says. "It is also important because marginalized people are most often the people whose remains go unidentified. Labeling them as 'Hispanic' or 'Black' is misleading. We, as forensic anthropologists, need to change the way we think about origin. We need to begin thinking about physical markers in the context of population affinity and how we can use that to both communicate clearly and to help understand who we are seeing when we work with unidentified remains. We need to ensure that we are not contributing - even inadvertently - to structural inequities and racism.

"This also means that we are faced with a wide range of new research questions. As a field, much of our work has focused on looking at data from the remains of historic populations. I think we need to begin doing more work that can help us better understand the ways in which historical events have helped to shape the skeletal characteristics of modern populations."
A bioengineering professor at The University of Texas at Arlington is developing a technique to diagnose tiny breast tumors that could reduce the anxiety, uncertainty and high costs often faced by patients.

Biopsy results show that about 80% of very small tumors are benign; 15% are low-grade, non-life-threatening cancers; and 5% are aggressive and invasive tumors that need immediate attention.

The National Institutes of Health recently awarded Baohong Yuan a three-year grant worth more than $440,000 to develop a method to use high-resolution imaging with super-sensitive temperature probes to determine if these tiny tumors are active and potentially harmful and, if so, to what degree.

The majority of very small tumors may be nothing to worry about, but to know for sure costs a lot of money, takes a lot of time and leads to a lot of anxiety in patients. We hope that our method will allow doctors to diagnose and treat very small tumors more effectively without the need for a biopsy in every case, saving time and money and minimizing worry." Baohong Yuan, Bioengineering Professor, The University of Texas at Arlington

In active tumors, cells grow quickly and consume energy, which generates heat. Yuan said he hopes to use biocompatible nanoparticles with ultrasound to detect the temperature difference between the tumors and the surrounding tissue. The nanoparticles glow weakly at normal body temperature but increase in intensity at higher temperatures.

Once the nanoparticles reach the tumors via the bloodstream, they become activated by the tumor and ultrasound. Yuan says the increased intensity is both easily detected and provides tissue thermal information. Using a process he developed for high-resolution imaging for deep tissue, Yuan can analyze the glow of the nanoparticles in the tumor to determine if it is active or if further observation or a biopsy are warranted.

The nanoparticles naturally pass out of the body, so the procedure will be safe for the patient.

Yuan has previously developed high-resolution imaging for deep tissue so doctors can use sharper pictures to monitor or evaluate tumor treatment. His work focuses on using ultrasound-mediated techniques, combined with microparticles or nanoparticles that tumors attract, to image small but deep tumors.

When exposed to ultrasound waves, the particles become temporarily fluorescent and can be detected by a non-invasive probe system that he and other researchers designed. The technique enables researchers to see, measure, analyze and manipulate tissue in new ways, and resulting the information is useful in deciding treatment.

Yuan's work on deep-tissue imaging has had a significant impact on cancer diagnosis and treatment, says Bioengineering Department Chair Michael Cho.

"When successfully completed, his work can lead to overcoming multiple challenges of detecting small tumors and distinguishing active vs. inactive breast cancers," Cho said. "Solving the problem of overdiagnosis and overtreatment by new imaging technology can significantly minimize the adverse impact of cancer treatments."
A new study from the University of Missouri found the unanticipated transitions to virtual schooling due to COVID-19 exposed the lack of digital resources among Black families in the United States, including access to Wi-Fi and technological savviness. As two-thirds of the country's Black children are born into single-parent households, the findings help explain the extensive stress virtual schooling caused for many Black families trying to keep their children learning and engaged online while at home during the pandemic.

What we found was parents and caregivers often felt disempowered in the rapidly changing environment, as they did not necessarily feel equipped with the tools or technological savviness to effectively engage in their children's education the way they felt they needed to. Schools were sending students home with devices for online learning without first ensuring families had reliable, consistent internet access to utilize those devices, and this was a big contributor to parental stress and burnout." Adaobi Anakwe, MU post-doctoral fellow and study's lead author

Anakwe and Wilson Majee, an associate professor in the MU School of Health Professions, interviewed parents and primary caregivers of Black families in Missouri with school-aged children to better understand their experiences suddenly shifting to virtual schooling due to COVID-19.

Anakwe explained the sudden shift to virtual schooling highlighted the digital divide that already existed for many Black families, as a lack of access to reliable internet can have long-term negative impacts on learning and health outcomes.

"The COVID-19 vaccine rollout showcased how important technological resources can be for making an appointment online," Anakwe said. "And the sudden shift from in-person health care visits to telehealth highlights the role technology can play in facilitating access to health care as well as education."

Anakwe added that even before the pandemic, Black families were already disproportionately faced with single-parent households, disparities in income and unequal access to transportation, housing, healthy foods and recreational facilities.

"We already have a cafeteria menu of social determinants of health that impact Black and minority populations," Anakwe said. "We need to be proactive to prevent the digital divide from becoming another issue that gets added on to an already very long list of challenges Black families deal with."

The COVID-19 pandemic also caused an increase in technology use among students, causing some Black parents to worry about the potential impact on their children's mental health.

"Before the pandemic, parents were tasked with minimizing screen time for their kids and ensuring they spent enough time outside engaged in physical activity," Anakwe said. "Then all of a sudden, parents were forced to encourage their children to use technology to stay engaged in their school work while at home. As COVID-19 lockdowns are starting to end, it will be interesting to see how the messaging around screen time evolves."

Majee said MU Extension and the University of Missouri System Broadband Initiative have helped increase access to broadband internet for rural Missourians, but more collaborative partnerships among community leaders, schools, local governments and families are needed to assist underprivileged Black families.

"Technology is becoming increasingly necessary for success in our lives, so this research can help us better understand the technological challenges facing Black families," Majee said. "Our overall goal is to improve the health of Black families by helping our community members who are most disadvantaged - it's a labor of love."

"Sink or swim: Virtual life challenges among African American families during COVID-19 lockdown" was recently published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. This project was done in collaboration with Saint Louis University, where Anakwe completed her doctoral studies.
Mandela Parkway, a four-lane boulevard enhanced by a median with trees and a curving footpath, stretches along a 24-block section of West Oakland. It's the fruit of a grassroots neighborhood campaign to block reconstruction of an elevated freeway leveled by the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989 and reimagine the thoroughfare to replace it.

Since the parkway's 2005 completion, 168 units of affordable housing have sprung up along its route. The air is measurably freer of pollutants than it was when the Cypress Freeway ran through the area.

A federal report heralded the project as the type of socially minded renovation that can make appropriate, if partial, amends for the devastation wrought on low-income neighborhoods by the freeway-building boom of earlier decades.

"Community involvement was a very important part of the rebuilding process," said the report, which concluded, "West Oakland residents got what they wanted."

Unfortunately, that's not entirely the case.

Although the 1.3-mile strip of land that Mandela Parkway passes through has cleaner air and better amenities than when it was a freeway spur, many of the neighborhood's original residents are no longer there to enjoy it, forced out by rising rents and housing costs. And West Oakland more broadly, bordered by the massive Port of Oakland, is still crisscrossed by elevated freeways where cars and heavy trucks spew hundreds of tons of pollutants every year.

The successes and failures of the Mandela Parkway are emblematic of the challenges faced by a new urban renewal movement that seeks to replace dozens of stretches of elevated urban freeways built in the 1950s, '60s and '70s across the United States. These highways bisected cities, displacing residents and businesses in what were frequently lower-income, working-class, non-white neighborhoods. Pollution and noise plague the health of those who continue to live nearby.

Today, as many of these roadways near or pass the end of their intended lifespans, policymakers, social justice advocates and urban planners have called for them to come down.

President Joe Biden's administration agrees. His infrastructure plan calls for highway removal to right historical injustices and improve the health of people who live nearby. At least four bills in Congress would fund such efforts, though none is assured passage.

But the Cypress Freeway conversion shows how complicated it is to accomplish highway removal in a way that improves the health and well-being of the longtime residents wronged by the roadways' legacy. The effects of neighborhood "greening" can be paradoxical, leading to "green gentrification."

There's abundant evidence that living near highways is bad for human health: Research has linked it to higher rates of hypertension, heart attack, neurological illnesses like Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis, worse birth outcomes, and asthma, especially in kids.

But the evidence is shakier on whether transforming the roadways reverses these problems, said Regan Patterson, a transportation equity research fellow for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

A 2019 study conducted by Patterson and Robert Harley of the University of California-Berkeley's Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering showed that rerouting the Cypress Freeway  Interstate 880  and building the Mandela Parkway cut nitrogen oxides by an annual average of 38%, and soot by 25%, along the parkway. But West Oakland in general is still heavily polluted by the rerouted I-880, as well as I-580 and I-980.

"You cannot talk about Mandela Parkway if you don't talk about the impact of all three highways," said Margaret Gordon, 74, a founding member of the West Oakland Environmental Indicators Project, an environmental justice organization.

And the very upgrade of the area along Mandela Parkway  coupled with the arrival of Big Tech company offices in the area  has contributed to property values spiking and longtime residents leaving. Black residents, who made up 73% of the population around the expressway in 1990, accounted for only 45% in 2010, according to Patterson's research. Median home values along the parkway jumped by $261,059 in that time frame.

"Green gentrification" is a paradoxical effect of projects intended to support healthier communities, said Jennifer Wolch, a professor of city and regional planning at UC-Berkeley. Her research, focused on the overall public health effects of urban greening, shows that rising housing costs and displacement of longtime residents can also damage their health. Other research has found that residents from marginalized groups reported a lower sense of community after "greening" transformations.

Longtime Latino residents, for example, reported avoiding segments of Chicago's 606 pedestrian trail that run through mostly white neighborhoods because of concerns of discrimination. Well-off white residents were more likely than Black residents to use the Atlanta BeltLine, a 33-mile network of trails and parks.

None of these problems seal an argument against highway removal, say urban activists. The Congress for the New Urbanism, a nonprofit focused on sustainable urban development, has identified 15 highways in major U.S. cities that are ripe for removal in its 2021 "Freeways Without Futures" report.

The lesson, instead, is to pay attention to the wishes of longtime community members in planning these infrastructure projects, said Jonathan Fearn, a member of the Oakland Planning Commission and a founder of ConnectOakland, an advocacy group involved in plans to tear down 2-mile-long I-980 and redesign the area.

Highway removal and neighborhood renewal should focus on making communities less car-dependent, and adding affordable housing and other amenities, said Dr. Richard Jackson, professor emeritus at the Fielding School of Public Health at UCLA and former director of the National Center for Environmental Health at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For example, creating community land trusts  nonprofits that buy vacant lots in communities and sell them back to residents at reduced rates  can help ensure affordable housing and rent stability.

Some of the congressional bills under consideration have provisions that would require anti-displacement strategies. But the $1.2 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework put forward by the Biden administration, which includes funding for a $1 billion "reconnecting communities" program, offers few details about ameliorating displacement.

If the projects get done, conversations about whom they benefit should happen early on, said Ben Crowther, program manager for the Congress for the New Urbanism's Highways to Boulevards program. But it's "very encouraging," he said, that federal bills to fund the remakes include strategies for making sure current residents benefit.

This story was produced by KHN, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation.
Designed to be simple to operate, the new Ultraseal LITE semi-automatic microplate sealer from Porvair Sciences is the perfect device for labs with low to medium throughput (6 plates / minute) processing needs.

Ultraseal LITE. Image credit: Porvair Sciences

Compact in design, the Ultraseal LITE will fit just about anywhere you need to use it - be it on a lab bench or inside a fumehood.

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Jameson Rybak tried to quit using opioids nearly a dozen times within five years. Each time, he'd wait out the vomiting, sweating and chills from withdrawal in his bedroom.

It was difficult to watch, said his mother, Suzanne Rybak, but she admired his persistence.

On March 11, 2020, though, Suzanne grew worried. Jameson, 30 at the time, was slipping in and out of consciousness and saying he couldn't move his hands.

By 11 p.m., she decided to take him to the emergency room at McLeod Regional Medical Center in Florence, South Carolina. The staff there gave Jameson fluids through an IV to rehydrate, medication to decrease his nausea and potassium supplements to stop his muscle spasms, according to Suzanne and a letter the hospital's administrator later sent her.

But when they recommended admitting him to monitor and manage the withdrawal symptoms, Jameson said no. He'd lost his job the previous month and, with it, his health insurance.

"He kept saying, 'I can't afford this,'" Suzanne recalled, and "not one person [at the hospital] indicated that my son would have had some financial options."

Suzanne doesn't remember any mention of the hospital's financial assistance policy or payment plans, she said. Nor does she remember any discussions of providing Jameson medication to treat opioid use disorder or connecting him to addiction-specialty providers, she said.

"No referrals, no phone numbers, no follow-up information," she later wrote in a complaint letter to the hospital.

Instead, ER staff provided a form saying Jameson was leaving against medical advice. He signed and Suzanne witnessed.

Three months later, Jameson Rybak died of an overdose in his childhood bedroom.

Missed opportunities

That March night in the emergency room, Jameson Rybak had fallen victim to two huge gaps in the U.S. health care system: a paucity of addiction treatment and high medical costs. The two issues  distinct but often intertwined  can come to a head in the ER, where patients and families desperate for addiction treatment often arrive, only to find the facility may not be equipped to deal with substance use. Or, even if they are, the treatment is prohibitively expensive.

Academic and medical experts say patients like Jameson represent a series of missed opportunities  both medical and financial.

"The emergency department is like a door, a really important door patients are walking through for identification of those who might need help," said Marla Oros, a registered nurse and president of the Mosaic Group, a Maryland-based consulting firm that has worked with more than 50 hospitals nationwide to increase addiction treatment services. "We're losing so many patients that could be identified and helped," she said, speaking generally.

A spokesperson for McLeod Regional Medical Center, where Jameson went for care, said they would not comment on an individual's case and declined to answer a detailed list of questions about the hospital's ER and financial assistance policies. But in a statement, the hospital's parent company, McLeod Health, noted that the hospital adhered to federal laws requiring that hospital ERs provide "immediate stabilizing care" for all patients, regardless of their ability to pay.

"Our hospitals attempt to manage the acute symptoms, but we do not treat chronic, underlying addiction," the statement added.

Suzanne said her son needed more than stabilization. He needed immediate help breaking the cycle of addiction.

Jameson had been in and out of treatment for five years, ever since a friend suggested he try opioids to manage his anxiety and insomnia. He had insurance through his jobs in the hotel industry and later as an electrical technician, Suzanne said. But the high-deductible plans often left him paying out-of-pocket: $3,000 for a seven-day rehab stay, $400 for a brief counseling session and a prescription of Suboxone, a medication to treat opioid use disorder.

After he lost his job in February 2020, Jameson tried again to detox at home, Suzanne said. That's what led to the ER trip.

Treating addiction in the ER

Hospital ERs across the nation have become ground zero for patients struggling with addiction.

A seminal study published in 2015 by researchers at Yale School of Medicine found that giving patients medication to treat opioid use disorder in the ER doubled their chances of being in treatment a month later, compared with those who were given only referrals to addiction treatment.

Yet providing that medication is still not standard practice. A 2017 survey found just 5% of emergency medicine physicians said their department provided medications for opioid use disorder. Instead, many ERs continue to discharge these patients, often with a list of phone numbers for addiction clinics.

ER resources to offer medications for opioid use disorder

Yale School of Medicine, which published pioneering work on the use of these medications in the ER, offers assessment, treatment and discharge resources for providers.

The American College of Emergency Physicians shares resources on treating opioid use disorder in the ER, and teamed up with the American Society of Addiction Medicine to provide a bedside tool for using buprenorphine.

Jameson didn't even get that, Suzanne said. At McLeod Regional, he was not seen by a psychiatrist or addiction specialist and did not get a prescription for Suboxone or even a referral, she said.

After Jameson's death, Suzanne wrote to the hospital: "Can you explain to me, especially with the drug crisis in this country, how the ER was not equipped with personnel and/or any follow-up for treatment?"

Hospital administrator Will McLeod responded to Suzanne, in a letter she shared with KHN, that per Jameson's medical record he'd been evaluated appropriately and that his withdrawal symptoms had been treated. Jameson declined to be admitted to the hospital, the letter said, and could not be involuntarily committed, as he "was not an imminent danger to himself or others."

"Had he been admitted to our hospital that day, he would have been assigned to social workers and case managers who could have assisted with referrals, support, and follow-up treatment," McLeod wrote.

Nationwide, hospitals are working to ramp up the availability of addiction services in the ER. In South Carolina, a state-funded program through the Medical University of South Carolina and the consulting firm Mosaic Group aims to help hospitals create a standardized system to screen patients for addiction, employ individuals who are in recovery to work with those patients and offer medication for opioid use disorder in the ER.

The initiative had worked with seven ERs as of June. It was in discussions to work with McLeod Regional hospital too, program staffers said. However, the hospital backed out.

The hospital declined to comment on its decision.

ER staffs around the country often lack the personnel to launch initiatives or learn about initiating addiction treatment. Sometimes affordable referral options are limited in the area. Even when the initial prescribing does occur, cost can be a problem, since Suboxone and its generic equivalent range in price from $50 to over $500 per prescription, without insurance.

In South Carolina, which has not expanded Medicaid, nearly 11% of the population is uninsured. Among patients in the state's program who have been started on medications for opioid use disorder in ERs, about 75% are uninsured, said Dr. Lindsey Jennings, an emergency medicine physician at MUSC who works on the statewide initiative.

Other parts of the country face similar concerns, said Dr. Alister Martin, an emergency medicine physician who heads a national campaign to encourage the use of these medications in the ER. In Texas, for example, hundreds of doctors have gotten certified to provide the medications, he said, but many patients are uninsured and cant pay for their prescriptions.

"You can't make it effective if people can't afford it," Martin said.

Too late for charity care

Throughout the night at McLeod Regional hospital's ER, Jameson worried about cost, Suzanne said.

She wanted to help, but Jameson's father and younger brother had recently lost their jobs, and the household was running on her salary as a public school librarian.

What experts say patients should know about hospital charity care

Ask for the hospitals' financial assistance policy. Nonprofit hospitals are required to have one and to provide you a copy. Many for-profit hospitals have such policies, too.

Always apply. Don't assume you won't qualify because you're working or have insurance.

Ask about alternatives. Even if you don't qualify for charity care, the hospital may be able to offer discounts or flexible payment plans.

Ask to meet with financial counselors or someone from the hospital's finance office to discuss your options.

Ask about assistance programs in the community. Does the hospital know of any local organizations that could help you enroll in insurance coverage or cover part of your bill through a grant program?

Suzanne didn't know that nonprofit hospitals, like McLeod, are required by the federal government to have financial assistance policies, which lower or eliminate bills for people without the resources to pay. Often called charity care, this assistance is a condition for nonprofit hospitals to maintain their tax-exempt status.

But "nonprofits are actually doing less charity care than for-profits," said Ge Bai, an associate professor at Johns Hopkins University who published a study this year on the level of charity care provided by different hospitals.

That's in part because they have wide leeway to determine who qualifies and often don't tell patients they may be eligible, despite federal requirements that nonprofit hospitals "widely publicize" their financial assistance policies, including on billing statements and in "conspicuous public displays" in the hospital. One study found that only 50% of hospitals regularly notified patients about eligibility for charity care before initiating debt collection.

McLeod Regional's most recent publicly available tax return states that "uninsured patients are screened at the time of registration" and if they're unable to pay and ineligible for governmental insurance, they're given an application.

Suzanne said she doesn't remember Jameson or herself receiving an application. The hospital declined to comment on the Rybaks' case and whether it provides "conspicuous public displays" of financial assistance.

"Not once did anybody tell us, 'Let's get a financial person down here,' or 'There are grant programs,'" Suzanne said.

Mark Rukavina, with the nonprofit health advocacy group Community Catalyst, said most hospitals comply with the letter of the law in publicizing their assistance policy. But "how effective some of that messaging is may be a question," he said. Some hospitals may bury the policy in a dense packet of other information or use signs with vague language.

A KHN investigation in 2019 found that, nationwide, 45% of nonprofit hospital organizations were routinely sending medical bills to patients whose incomes were low enough to qualify for charity care. McLeod Regional hospital reported $1.77 million of debt from sending bills to such patients, which ended up going unpaid, for the fiscal year ending in 2019.

Believing they couldn't afford in-patient admission, the Rybaks left the hospital that night.

After the ER

Afterward, Jameson's withdrawal symptoms passed, Suzanne said. He spent time golfing with his younger brother. Although his application for unemployment benefits was denied, he managed to defer payments on his car and school loans, she said.

But, inside, he must have been struggling, Suzanne now realizes.

Throughout the pandemic, many people with substance use disorder reported feeling isolated and relapsing. Overdose deaths rose nationwide.

On the morning of June 9, 2020, Suzanne opened the door to Jameson's room and found him on the floor. The coroner determined he had died of an overdose. The family later scattered his ashes on Myrtle Beach  Jameson's favorite place, Suzanne said.

In the months following Jameson's death, hospital bills for his night in the ER arrived at the house. He owed $4,928, they said. Suzanne wrote to the hospital that her son was dead but received yet another bill addressed to him after that.

She shredded it and mailed the pieces to the hospital, along with a copy of Jameson's death certificate.

Twelve days later, the health system wrote to her that the bill had been resolved under its charity care program.

Bill of the Month is a crowdsourced investigation by KHN and NPR that dissects and explains medical bills. Do you have an interesting medical bill you want to share with us? Tell us about it!
Resistance to antibiotics is common and often deadly among children with pneumonia in Bangladesh, according to a new study coauthored by researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) with colleagues at the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (abbreviated as icddr,b). This study, which appears in the journal Open Forum Infectious Diseases, offers an early warning that a pandemic of potentially deadly antibiotic resistance is under way and could spread around the globe.

The study was led by Mohammod Jobayer Chisti, MD, PhD, a senior scientist in icddr,b's Nutrition and Clinical Services Division. Chisti was inspired to conduct the research when he observed that the hospital affiliated with icddr,b was admitting more and more young children with pneumonia who were highly resistant to treatment with standard antibiotics. "At our hospital, dozens of kids died of pneumonia between 2014 and 2017, despite receiving the World Health Organization's recommended antibiotics and enhanced respiratory support," says Chisti.

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that causes fluid and pus to fill air sacs, producing cough, fever, trouble breathing, and other symptoms. Without effective treatment, the infection can be fatal; pneumonia is the most common cause of death in young children, according to the World Health Organization. In small children, pneumonia can be caused by viruses, but certain types of bacteria are common sources of infection, too. In the United States and other high-income countries, Staphylococcus ("staph"), Streptococcus ("strep"), and Haemophilus influenzae are the most common bacterial causes of pneumonia, which usually respond well to antibiotic therapy. Vaccines for the latter two have saved countless lives worldwide.

However, when Chisti and his colleagues examined health records of more than 4,000 children under age five with pneumonia admitted to their hospital between 2014 and 2017, they found that a very different pattern of bacterial infections was occurring. The usual staph and strep infections that commonly cause pneumonia in the United States and elsewhere were relatively rare. Among the children who had a positive culture, gram-negative bacteria were responsible for 77 percent of the infections, including Pseudomonas, E. coli, Salmonella and Klebsiella.

"That's totally different than what I'm used to in my practice in Boston," says Jason Harris, MD, MPH, co-first author of the study and chief of the division of Pediatric Global Health at the Massachusetts General Hospital for Children. Unfortunately, he adds, "the gram-negative bacteria we saw in these kids are notorious for being antibiotic resistant." To wit: Some 40 percent of the gram-negative bacterial infections in this study resisted treatment with first- and second-line antibiotics that are routinely used to treat pneumonia. More alarming, children who had antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections were 17 times more likely than others without bacterial infections to die.

Harris believes that these results are clear evidence that longstanding concerns that antibiotic resistance will become a deadly menace are no longer theoretical--the problem has taken root. "These kids are already dying early because of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, from what would be a routine infection in other parts of the world," says Harris. "And this was at one hospital in Bangladesh. Extrapolate these findings across a country of 163 million people, and then to a larger region where antibiotic resistance is emerging, and the overall numbers are probably huge."

There is an urgent need to address factors that are promoting antibiotic resistance in Bangladesh, says Tahmeed Ahmed, PhD, executive director of icddr,b and senior author of the study. For starters, antibiotics can be purchased without a prescription in the country and many people use them to self-treat conditions such as dysentery, cold, cough and fever. Misuse of antibiotics promotes the spread of bacteria that resist the medications.

We may be able to reduce this emerging bacterial resistance by improving antibiotic stewardship, particularly in the outpatient setting." Tahmeed Ahmed, PhD, Study's Senior Author

Lab testing for diagnosis of bacterial infections is also inadequate in the country. "What's more, lack of access to clean water and adequate sanitation helps spread bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics," adds Ahmed. Improvements in health care infrastructure and policy changes to rein in the misuse of antibiotics are essential, he argues, though Ahmed notes that Bangladesh's health care system also needs better access to more advanced antibiotic therapies for resistant infections.

If these and other steps aren't taken now, it's only a matter of time before the problem of widespread deadly antibiotic resistance spreads around the world, notes Harris. "We know that acquisition of antibiotic resistance is very common in travelers, and that when highly resistant bacteria crop up in one part of the world, they ultimately crop up everywhere," he says, comparing the problem to another current global health care crisis. "If COVID-19 was a tsunami, then emerging antibiotic resistance is like a rising flood water. And it's kids in Bangladesh who are already going under."
A new study led by the University of Oulu in Finland refutes the belief that high hemoglobin levels are always desirable for health. A study based on two large human cohorts as well as experimental work supported that lower hemoglobin levels may protect against both obesity and metabolic syndrome. The phenomenon may be related to the bodys response to low-oxygen conditions and is used, for example, by endurance athletes in high-altitude training.

Hemoglobin is a protein in the blood that is responsible for transporting oxygen to the tissues of the body. Hemoglobin levels vary from one individual to another, with normal levels in Finnish population ranging from 117 to 155 grams per litre in females and 134 to 167 grams per litre in males.

A recent study published in the high-profile scholarly journal Science Advances showed that individual differences in hemoglobin levels are strongly associated with metabolic health in adulthood. The hemoglobin levels were associated with body mass index, glucose metabolism, blood lipids and blood pressure, with subjects having lower hemoglobin levels being healthier in terms of metabolic measures. The study examined hemoglobin values within the normal range.

We found a clear association between hemoglobin levels and key cardiovascular traits, and the associations became more pronounced as the subjects aged, say the principal investigators, Professor Juha Auvinen, doctoral student Joona Tapio and postdoctoral researcher Ville Karhunen.

The effect of lower hemoglobin observed in the study is related to a mild oxygen deficiency in the body and the corresponding response (so-called HIF response) which is activated as a result. The research team of Professor Peppi Karppinen is internationally known for its studies on this phenomenon. The finding reinforces the understanding of the central role that the HIF response has in regulating the bodys energy metabolism.

Hemoglobin levels are a good measure of the bodys ability to carry oxygen. A mild lack of oxygen activates the HIF response, which makes the bodys energy metabolism less economical and thus may protect against obesity and unfavourable metabolism, explains Karppinen, who led the study.

Working at the Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine and Biocenter Oulu, Karppinens team has already shown in previous research that activation of the hypoxia response protects mice from obesity, metabolic syndrome, fatty liver and atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). The study now published is the first in which the link between oxygen deficiency and wide range of metabolic health markers is demonstrated in humans as well.

Although this study uses multiple methods to establish links between lower body oxygen levels and metabolic health, it is very challenging to establish causality for the observed associations in human data. However, combining evidence from different components of the study, the results support that hypoxia response may also play an important role in peoples metabolic health, explains further Professor Marjo-Riitta Jarvelin, co-leader of the study from Imperial College London, UK and University of Oulu, Finland.

We also already know that in people living high above sea level, low oxygen levels in the habitat cause long-term activation of the HIF response. These people are slimmer, and they have better sugar tolerance and a lower risk of cardiovascular death. Professor Peppi Karppinen

A key question in the future is therefore: how to reduce the bodys oxidation levels if needed, so as to achieve a permanent low-level activation of the HIF response and thus protection against obesity? According to Karppinen, the HIF enzymes that cause a hypoxic response could potentially be used as targets of obesity and metabolism drugs in humans. Currently they are being used in Asia to treat renal anemia.

The study was based on a large cohort of people born in Northern Finland in 1966. In the study, the health and well-being of more than 12,000 people has been regularly monitored since birth. The results were also replicated in The Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study cohort material, five multicentre study in Finland, which covers in the present study a total of more than 1,800 individuals. This work was conducted especially in collaboration between researchers from Universities of Turku and Tampere in Finland and from Imperial College London, UK.

Obesity and metabolic syndrome are major health problems worldwide, connected with numerous comorbidities and premature mortality. Half of Finnish adults are overweight and a quarter have metabolic syndrome. Childhood obesity is also increasing, and the same phenomenon can be seen globally. New ways of preventing and treating obesity are urgently needed.
Betty Katherine (Akin) Smith, 91, passed Wednesday, July 14, 2021, at The Historic Villages of Silvercrest in New Albany, IN. The daughter of the late Leonard Taft and Mary Lucille (Gerdon) Akin, Betty was born December 20, 1929 in Galena, IN. Her family moved to Greensburg, KY and then back
Goldsboro, NC (27530)

Today

Thunderstorms. High 76F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms early, then variable clouds overnight with still a chance of showers. Low 68F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
Joy Kieffer, founding chairman for nursing and an associate professor for nursing at the University of Mount Olive, stands in a room in the library at the university that is being converted into a simulation care lab for nursing students.
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(Newser)  The Biden administration said Wednesday that it is prepared to begin evacuation flights for Afghan interpreters and translators who aided the US military effort in the nearly 20-year war. The Operation Allies Refuge flights out of Afghanistan in the last week of July will be available first for special immigrant visa applicants already in the process of applying for US residency, according to the White House. Press secretary Jen Psaki declined to detail how many Afghans are expected to be evacuated in the first flights or where they will be taken, citing security concerns, the AP reports. "The reason that we are taking these steps is because these are courageous individuals," Psaki said. "We want to make sure we recognize and value the role they've played over the last several years." The administration is considering using State Department-chartered commercial aircraft instead of military aircraft, an administration official said. The Pentagon said no decisions have been made about overseas locations the evacuees could be taken to temporarily.

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Confirmation on the timeline came as President Biden was to meet Wednesday with Gen. Austin "Scott" Miller, who earlier this week stepped down as the top US commander in Afghanistan. Psaki said Biden wanted to personally thank Miller for conducting an "orderly and safe" drawdown of US troops. Biden has faced pressure from lawmakers in both parties to come up with a plan to evacuate Afghan military helpers before next month's US troop withdrawal. Former President George W. Bush, who launched the war, criticized the Western withdrawal from Afghanistan in an interview with a German broadcaster released Wednesday, saying he fears for Afghan women and girls as the Taliban regains control of much of the country. "It's unbelievable how that society changed from the brutality of the Taliban, and all of a suddensadlyI'm afraid Afghan women and girls are going to suffer unspeakable harm," Bush said.

(Read more Afghanistan war stories.)
(Newser)  The FBI has admitted that its agents' conduct in the Larry Nassar sexual abuse case was "inexcusable" and a discredit to the agency. The FBI issued a statement after the release of a Justice Department watchdog report that outlined massive failures in the investigation of the former Team USA gymnastics doctor, who sexually abused hundreds of female athletes, the Wall Street Journal reports. The inspector general's report said officials with the FBI's Indianapolis field office failed to treat abuse allegations in 2015 with the "utmost seriousness," made "numerous and fundamental errors" in their investigation, and then lied to cover up their mistakes, per the Indianapolis Star. The FBI failed to contact state or local law enforcement about the risk Nassar presented to athletes, the report states.

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The report states that after Indiana-based USA Gymnastics reported gymnasts' complaints to the FBI, the agency did almost nothing for a yearand Nassar, who also worked for Michigan State University, continued to abuse women and girls during that time. The report says that according to civil court documents, another "70 or more young athletes were allegedly sexually abused under the guise of medical treatment" before Nassar's arrest in late 2016. The watchdog said W. Jay Abbott, the agent in charge of the Indianapolis office at the time, made "materially false" statements to investigators looking into the agency's mishandling of the case, and violated ethics rules by negotiating for a job at the US Olympic Committee during the investigation, the AP reports. Attorneys for Nassar's victims say Abbott, who has now retired, should be prosecuted. (Read more Larry Nassar stories.)
(Newser)  America's top general was so worried President Trump would refuse to give up the presidency that he asked confidants if a coup was imminent. So Pulitzer Prize winners Carol Leonnig and Philip Rucker of the Washington Post report in I Alone Can Fix It: Donald J. Trump's Catastrophic Final Year. "This is a Reichstag moment  The gospel of the Fuhrer," they quote Gen. Mark A. Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, as telling aides about Trump's false claims of election fraud, pointing to the 1933 attack on Germany's parliament building that Adolf Hitler used to establish a dictatorship, per the Post. Even before the Capitol attack, Milley thought "Trump was stoking unrest, possibly in hopes of an excuse to invoke the Insurrection Act and call out the military," the book reads, per the Guardian. Aides had drafted an order to invoke the act on June 1, 2020, per the New York Times.

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But Milley strategized with military leaders about how to block such an order. He also sought to block the firing of FBI Director Chris Wray and CIA Director Gina Haspel, having told deputies that a coup wouldn't be possible "without the CIA and the FBI," per CNN. Concerns about a coup came a week after Trump's election loss, when an old friend called to voice fears about Trump allies trying to "overturn the government." That same day, Milley had attended a briefing about a pro-Trump rally protesting the election and went on to refer to Trump supporters as "brownshirts," a name given to members of an early Nazi militia. Milley later promised a peaceful transfer of power, noting, "we're going to put a ring of steel around this city and the Nazis aren't getting in," according to the book, based on interviews with more than 140 people. It's out on Tuesday. (Read more Mark Milley stories.)
(Newser)  More than 20 people have died and dozens of people were missing Thursday in Germany and neighboring Belgium after heavy flooding turned streams and streets into raging torrents, sweeping away cars and causing buildings to collapse. Police in the western city of Koblenz said Thursday that four people had died in Ahrweiler county, and about 50 were trapped on the roofs of their houses awaiting rescue. the AP reports. Up to 70 people were reported missing after several houses collapsed overnight in the village of Schuld in the Eifel, a region of rolling hills and small valleys southwest of Cologne. Two firefighters died during rescue operations in North-Rhine Westphalia, Germany's most populous state.

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The full extent of the damage is still unclear because many villages have been cut off by floodwater and landslides that made roads impassable. Authorities used inflatable boats and helicopters, and the German army deployed 200 soldiers to assist in the rescue operation. "There are people dead, there are people missing, there are many who are still in danger," the governor of Rhineland-Palatinate state, Malu Dreyer, told the regional parliament. "We have never seen such a disaster. It's really devastating." Across the border in Belgium, the Vesdre river broke its banks and sent masses of water churning through the streets of Pepinster, close to Liege, its destructive power bringing down some buildings.

(Read more Germany stories.)
(Newser)  Cristhian Bahena Rivera, convicted of killing Mollie Tibbetts in Brooklyn, Iowa, was supposed to be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole on Thursday. Instead, sentencing will be delayed as a judge hears a motion to throw out his first-degree murder conviction and hold a new trial. Defense attorneys say they've learned two witnesses told police that they'd spoken to a man who claimed he and a 50-year-old sex trafficker killed Tibbetts and framed the Mexican national, per ABC News. Both witnesses came forward May 26, the day Bahena Rivera blamed Tibbetts' death on two masked men. One witness said they were in jail with a man who admitted to raping and killing Tibbetts after seeing her bound and gagged at a sex trafficking "trap house" owned by his alleged accomplice, who feared retribution after authorities searching for Tibbetts turned up at a neighboring house.

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A second witness thought to be under the influence implicated the same person, per KCCI, but Mahaska County Sheriff's deputies didn't find the account credible. Defense attorneys say prosecutors only revealed the accounts after Bahena Rivera was convicted on May 28. They say they've since learned police were investigating a "trap house" in New Sharon when Tibbetts disappeared 27 miles away on July 18, 2018. Defense attorneys submitted a police search warrant affidavit for the home that they say "corroborates the 'trap house' account," per ABC. They add the 50-year-old man allegedly operating the house is the former live-in boyfriend of a woman whose 11-year-old son disappeared from a rural trailer park on May 27. They claim at least 10 children have vanished in the vicinity of Poweshiek County in the last few years. Prosecutors are expected to respond Wednesday. (Read more Mollie Tibbetts stories.)
In this Sept. 27, 2018, file photo, Haiti's late president, Jovenel Moise, addresses the 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly at UN headquarters in New York. (AP Photo/Richard Drew, File)

In this Sept. 27, 2018, file photo, Haiti's late president, Jovenel Moise, addresses the 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly at UN headquarters in New York. (AP Photo/Richard Drew, File)
(Newser)  New Jersey man Louis Angelino III says that after cleaning what he thought was the home of a friend's co-worker, he told the man he was playing with his cats while waiting for him to get back. The response: "Louis, I don't have any cats." Angelino, a 27-year-old liquor store worker who cleans friends' homes for extra cash, had accidentally broken into a stranger's home and thoroughly cleaned it after getting one digit wrong in the house number, NJ.com reports. Angelinowho found a key under the townhome's mat, where the client said it would beleft a note for the owners of the Cherry Hill home he had cleaned.

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"I broke in and cleaned someone's random apartment," Angelino says in a TikTok video. Beth Motzel tells CBS2 that her husband called her that day and said, "You wont believe it. Someone broke in our house and cleaned the entire thing." The couple, whose home had been a mess due to renovation work, exchanged texts with Angelino, who joked that he was the "cleaning fairy." They told him he did a great job and said they would hire him if they ever needed a cleaner in the future. Angelino says he is happy the couple were "so cool with it" and he hopes the incidentand the "cleaning fairy" titlewill help him get more business. "I break into your apartment and I clean your apartment," he says. (Read more uplifting news stories.)
(Newser)  A man accused of raping and beating a woman while holding her captive for months in Pennsylvania was arrested this week after the woman asked for help in notes left in public bathrooms. In the first note, found stuck to a mirror inside a Walmart bathroom in Carnegie, Pa., on July 8, the woman wrote that she'd been held against her will and sexually and physically assaulted. The note gave the name of the victim and her alleged captor, 38-year-old Corey Brewer, along with his address and a description of his vehicle, per WTAE and the Washington Post. There was no answer at the home when police showed up without a warrant, though officers could hear noises inside. Officers then called Brewer, who told them he and the victim, whom he'd been dating, were vacationing in New York. Brewer then listened as the victim told officers she was with her boyfriend, per ABC News.

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But in a second note, found stuck to a mirror in a restroom at the Fallingwater museum in Mill Run, Pa., the following day, the woman said she'd lied and had been held captive since May 1, per ABC. She also said she'd "heard the police knocking at the residence." "The abuse hasn't stopped, and please don't give up," she added. Police returned with a warrant on Sunday. The victim, taken to a hospital, told police that Brewer had sexually assaulted, beaten, and strangled her, cut her with a knife, taken nude photos of her without consent, and threatened to kill her and her children if she tried to escape. Brewer was arrested and charged with sexual assault, unlawful restraint, strangulation, making terroristic threats, and other crimes before posting $500 in cash, or 10% of his $5,000 bail, per Law & Crime. Police note the victim obtained a protection order against Brewer last August, though it expired a month later. (Read more Pennsylvania stories.)
(Newser)  With the sale of a violent, homophobic T-shirt, a biker bar in Cheyenne may have inadvertently moved the state closer to bringing in hate crime legislation. The Wyoming Equality group shared a photo of the shirtwhich shows an armed man, with the words "In Wyoming, we have a cure for AIDS, we shoot f---'n -f-----s"in a Facebook post Monday, saying it had failed to convince the owner to stop selling them, the Casper Star Tribune reports. The group said it wasn't naming the bar because they didn't want to give it free publicity. Cheyenne is less than an hour away from Laramie, where gay University of Wyoming student Matthew Shepard was beaten, tied to a fence, and left to die in 1998, reports NBC.

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Wyoming is one of only four states with no hate crimes legislation, but state lawmakers will consider two potential measures during the 2022 legislative session. Sara Burlingame, executive director of Wyoming Equality, tells NBC that the shirt has made at least a few state lawmakers understand the need for legislation. Gov. Mark Gordon, a Republican, was among those who condemned the shirt, saying its rhetoric "is not reflective of our state's values, and does nothing but promote hate and division." The bar's owner tells the Cheyenne Post that the shirts have sold out and he will not be ordering more because he is "in the bar business, not the apparel business." (Read more Wyoming stories.)
(Newser)  Police in the Netherlands and Ireland were very keen to talk to the owners of two containers that arrived in Rotterdam weeks agobut they never showed up to collect them. Inside the abandoned containers, which were destined for Ireland, was a huge shipment of cocaine disguised as charcoal, CNN reports. Sources tell the Irish Times that police believe the smugglers realized the shipment from South America was being watched and had become "too hot to handle." A similar shipment was seized in Spain last month.

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Police have now brought the shipment to Ireland for analysis. They believe the bags of charcoal contain around $41 million in cocaine, which would make the seizure one of the biggest in Irish history. The haul is more than three times the total amount of the drug seized in the country last year. Police say smugglers treated the cocaine with carbon dust, black dye, and an odor blocker to thwart sniffer dogs before shaping it into blocks that resembled charcoal, RTE reports. Extracting the drug again would have involved complicated chemical processes. Police say the size and sophistication of the operation narrows the suspects down to a small number of organized crime groups, and they expect to make arrests soon. (Read more drug smuggling stories.)
(Newser)  Police are investigating the deaths of two men at the former mansion of designer Gianni Versace almost 24 years to the day when Versace was murdered there. Miami Beach police say their preliminary investigation suggests a suicide pact, reports CNN. The mansion now operates as a boutique hotel, notes the AP. On July 15, 1997, the 50-year-old Versace was shot to death outside his home for reasons that remain unclear to this day. The killer was believed to be 27-year-old Andrew Cunanan, also suspected in the murder of four men across the country in the previous three months, per USA Today. Cunanan fatally shot himself about a week after Versace's murder as police closed in on him.

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On Wednesday, housekeepers found the bodies of Adam Rashap, 31, of Randolph, New Jersey, and Alexander Gross, 30, of York, Pennsylvania, in their hotel suite at the Villa Casa Casuarina, according to police. Few other details have been released. The hotel is located on Ocean Drive in South Beach. Versace's killing has been the subject of much speculation over the years, and it received the TV treatment in 2018 with the FX series The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story. (Read more Gianni Versace stories.)
(Newser)  Peter R. de Vries, the renowned Dutch crime reporter shot last week in a brazen attack in Amsterdam, has died, Dutch media reported Thursday. "Peter fought to the end, but was unable to win the battle," RTL, the Dutch network that de Vries regularly worked for, cited a family statement as saying, per the AP. De Vries, 64, rose rapidly from a young cub reporter to become the Netherlands' best-known journalist. He was a pillar of support for families of slain or missing children, a campaigner against injustice, and a thorn in the side of gangsters in the Dutch capital's increasingly violent underworld. The statement, which requested privacy for De Vries' family and partner, said he died surrounded by loved ones. "Peter has lived by his conviction: 'On bended knee is no way to be free,'" the statement added. "We are unbelievably proud of him and at the same time inconsolable."

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De Vries was "always seeking the truth and standing up for justice," Prime Minister Mark Rutte said in a tweet. "And that makes it all the more dramatic that he himself has now become the victim of a great injustice." The journalist was shot July 6 after making one of his regular appearances on a current affairs television show. He'd recently been an adviser and confidant for a witness in the trial of the alleged leader of a crime gang that police described as an "oiled killing machine." The suspected gangland leader, Ridouan Taghi, was extradited to the Netherlands from Dubai in 2019. He remains jailed while standing trial along with 16 other suspects. Two suspects have been detained in the shooting. Dutch police said the suspected shooter is a 21-year-old Dutchman, and a 35-year-old Polish man living in the Netherlands is accused of driving the getaway car.

(Read more Netherlands stories.)
(Newser)  When Jeff Bezos blasts off for space next week, the flight will be historic on two fronts that are polar opposites. His Blue Origin capsule will include the youngest and oldest people to fly to space, reports CNN. The company announced Thursday that the fourth and final passenger will be 18-year-old Oliver Daemen. It was already known that 82-year-old aerospace pioneer Wally Funkshe was a Mercury mission trainee decades agowould be aboard. The only other two on Tuesday's flight will be Bezos and his brother Mark.

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Daemen is a recent high school graduate who will attend the University of Utrecht in the Netherlands this fall. The BBC reports that he is a physics student and the son of Somerset Partners CEO Joes Daemen. The elder Daemen was originally supposed to be aboard Blue Origin's second flight, but he got bumped up when the still-anonymous winner of an auction for a seat on the first flight had to postpone because of a scheduling conflict. The elder Daemen then gave the seat to his son. (Richard Branson ought to be rooting for a successful Bezos mission.)
(Newser)  Although a new drug for treating Alzheimer's cleared the Food and Drug Administration's approval process, a pair of large health systems say it has not cleared theirs. The Cleveland Clinic and Mount Sinai Health System in New York won't administer Aduhelm to patients until they have more answers about the drug and the FDA's heavily criticized decision, the Wall Street Journal reports. The agency's acting chief has requested an independent investigation of the approval, including whether all contacts between employees of the FDA and Biogen, the manufacturer of Aduhelm, were proper. Until that investigation is finished and the data on the drug are reviewed by another panel of experts, the Cleveland Clinic said Aduhelm will not be offered in its pharmacy, either. Its physicians are not barred from prescribing it, but it will have to be given to patients somewhere else.

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Mount Sinai also said it will reconsider after the investigation, waiting to see if the FDA's approval is confirmed. The health care system also has its experts compiling use guidelines and conducting its usual review before adopting a new drug. "Only after all these are in place will we reconsider," a spokeswoman said. Biogen was not happy with the hospitals' decisions and suggested people who want the drug but lack access contact the company. "Medical decisions should be based on science and data, so it is disappointing that patients living with Alzheimers disease may reportedly not be able to access Aduhelm at some facilities," the spokeswoman said. The company reaffirmed its support of the drug and the validity of the clinical data provided to the FDA. Biogen shares fell 7% on Thursday, per Reuters, which an analyst attributed to the health systems' announcements. (Read more Aduhelm stories.)
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Karlaza held for court in husband's murder; victim suffered nine stab wounds

Mark Gilger / MARK GILGER/STAFF PHOTO Lisa Karlaza, 53, of Dooleyville, is escorted by Mount Carmel Township Police Chief Brian Hollenbush from the courtroom of Magisterial District Judge William Cole, of Mount Carmel, on Wednesday after being held for court on all charges including criminal homicide relating to the stabbing death of her husband on July 4.

MOUNT CARMEL  Mom, how can you do this to me? Im your son. Just plead guilty.

That was the reaction of Nicholas Karlaza after his mother, Lisa Karlaza, was held for court Wednesday on all charges for allegedly stabbing to death her 60-year-old husband, Richard Karlaza, at their home at 21 Back St., Dooleyville, on July 4. The victim suffered nine stab wounds on various sections of his body, according to testimony by one of the arresting officers.

The 53-year-old defendant was ordered by Magisterial District Judge William Cole to appear for formal arraignment Aug. 2 in Northumberland County Court of Common Pleas after he ruled the commonwealth presented enough evidence during the 70-minute preliminary hearing to move the case forward.

Karlaza is charged with felonies of criminal homicide and aggravated assault (two counts), misdemeanors of possessing an instrument of crime, false reports and simple assault, and a summary of harassment.

County public defender Laurie Pickle, who along with public defender Gerald Iwanejko represented Karlaza, said her client plans to waive formal arraignment, which means her next court appearance will be a status conference scheduled for Sept. 3.

Pickle reserved comment about Coles ruling.

Testimony was presented by Mount Carmel Township Patrolmen Jonathan Rush and Patrick McAndrew, and Karlazas longtime neighbor Joseph Odorizzi, of 23 Back St.

The defense called no witnesses.

Rush said he was summoned to investigate a home invasion and possible homicide at 21 Back St. after Lisa Karlaza called 911 to report the incidents July 4.

Rush, who said hes been called to deal with incidents at the Karlaza residence at least three times in the past, said Kulpmont Police Chief Nathan Foust was at the home when he arrived at 5:56 p.m. He said Mount Carmel Patrolman Jonathan McHugh arrived a short time later.

The patrolman said the defendant was asked to come outside, but claimed she couldnt because her husbands feet were blocking the front door of the half-double home.

He said Foust was then able to forcibly open the front door, where the officers found Richard Karlazas body lying behind the door with a large amount of blood coming from his mouth and head.

Rush also testified that the victim had a cut on his throat and his chest had been punctured.

He said blood was found on the floor and wall of the home.

The officer said Foust and McHugh searched the home, but found no one else inside and no signs of forced entry.

Rush said he took Lisa Karlaza into custody and the home was later secured as a crime scene.

The patrolman, who said multiple other officers also responded to the home, recalled the defendant asking him what happened to her husband.

McAndrew, who was off-duty, said he was contacted by Mount Carmel Township Police Chief Brian Hollenbush to assist with the investigation.

The officer, who obtained search warrants for the home, said he attended an autopsy on the victims body July 6 at Forensic Pathology Associates in Allentown.

He said the autopsy, which was also attended by Northumberland County Coroner James Kelley and Northumberland County District Attorney Tony Matulewicz, revealed that Richard Karlaza suffered nine stab wounds including three on his chest, one on his neck, three in his groin area and two on his shoulder.

McAndrew testified that the victim was covered in blood at the scene. He said blood was found on the front door knob, a television stand, a French door, inside and outside a kitchen cabinet and other sections of the home including a wall and the lid of a washer in the basement.

He said a black-handled butcher knife was found in the dishwasher with suspected blood on it.

The officer also recalled finding a bottle of peroxide and pods of Cascade near the dishwasher.

McAndrew said a tape recording of a 911 call made by Lisa Karlaza to the county dispatch center at 5:55 p.m. July 4 stated, I think he was stabbed.

The defendant was hysterical and refusing to listen to instructions provided by a dispatcher, according to McAndrews testimony.

During an interview with Lisa Karlaza, McAndrew said the defendant told him she heard voices that sounded like her son and a woman she only identified as Danielle in the residence on the day of the murder, which scared her and prompted her to hide in the basement.

After returning to the first floor, Karlaza told McAndrew she found her husband dead.

McAndrew said neighbors didnt see anyone else at the home on July 4. The officer said Nicholas Karlaza, who was staying at his parents home for a couple days, was visiting a friend in Minersville at the time of the murder.

On July 4, Odorizzi testified that he heard an argument between Lisa and Richard Karlaza, who both lived next door to him for about 20 years. Odorizzi, who was inside his home, said he heard Lisa Karlaza screaming and her husband telling her to shut up.

At about 5:45 p.m., Odorizzi said he heard a loud crash at the front door of the Karlaza residence and later heard Lisa Karlaza crying and stating she needed help. Odorizzi said he thought the loud noise he heard was the front door slamming at the Karlaza residence.

Odorizzi said he didnt know what happened until police arrived at the home a few minutes later.

As police escorted Lisa Karlaza from the home, Odorizzi said he didnt see any blood on her clothing or skin and she appeared to be in a normal state of mind.

During her summation at the end of the hearing, Pickle moved to have all the charges dismissed because no manner or cause of death was ever revealed during the hearing.

Matulewicz explained that an autopsy report listing the official cause and manner of death has not yet been completed.

In addition to pointing out the testimony and other evidence against the defendant, Matulewicz said a deadly weapon (8 1/2-inch knife) was used on a vital part of the victims body, which negates the need for a cause or manner of death to be revealed during a preliminary hearing.

He commended Rush, McAndrew, Hollenbush and other members of Mount Carmel Township Police Department for conducting an excellent investigation and also praised the efforts of Kelley, state police at Montoursville and officers from Mount Carmel, Kulpmont, Ralpho Township, Shamokin and Butler Township for assisting with the probe.
Ben Shapiro, 37, is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of The Ben Shapiro Show, and editor-in-chief of DailyWire.com. He is the author of the New York Times bestsellers How To Destroy America In Three Easy Steps, The Right Side Of History, and Bullies.
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A house on Grange Hall Road in Two Rivers belonging to Mike and Toni Galster was the latest in a string of fires in the community.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa sent a cable of congratulations to Bahrain Journalists Association (BJA) President Isa Al Shaiji and board members marking their election unopposed.

HM the King hailed the BJA president and board members press competence, wishing them success in achieving the goals of the association and serving the press community in Bahrain.

HM the King pressed the pivotal role of the press in serving society, promoting national issues and defending Bahrains security, stability and interests and highlighting development strides.

He commended the national press for its credibility, objectivity, professionalism, praising journalists dedicated efforts to serve the nation and citizens.

In the cable, HM the King lauded the outgoing BJA president and board members efforts and dedication in serving the national press and journalists.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

The Municipality of the Northern Region has removed 1,000 unlawful advertisements during the first half of the year. The Municipalitys General Manager, Eng. Lamia Al Fadala, said that it took legal procedures and imposed fines on the violating companies.

The violations included advertisements on lighting poles and big billboards and posters in the streets, buildings and columns. Al Fadala called on the advertisers to adhere to the regulations and laws in publishing their advertisements, noting that some are placed illegally and without licences.

Al Fadala explained that the campaigns against advertisement violations are continuing, in parallel with the national awareness campaign aimed at creating a generation aware of the importance of maintaining regulations and laws to preserve the beauty of regions and the environment.

She said that the spread of billboards and posters in the streets and various areas is one of the forms of visual pollution. It has increased dramatically, which negatively affected the aesthetics of the areas and their civilised image, she added.


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REDDING  The Easton-Redding-Region 9 school board is looking to gauge input from community members regarding their search for the next superintendent.

The district announced there will be three opportunities for individuals to give their insight at one of three meetings on July 26.
A comprehensive study of Route 37 through Danbury and New Fairfield could lead to major changes, including sidewalks, turn lanes, traffic signals and road improvements.

The report, released by the Western Connecticut Council of Governments, follows a more-than-yearlong study of traffic and safety conditions along the Route 37 corridor.

The study was launched in October 2019, with the goal of improving safety and mobility for drivers and pedestrians along the nearly five-mile stretch of Route 37 from the Interstate 84 Exit 6 off-ramp in Danbury to less than a half-mile north of Route 39 in New Fairfield.

WestCOG analyzed crash data to establish safety conditions and identified several accident hot spots  one of which was the Route 37-Stacey Road intersection in Danbury.

With more than 50 reported crashes since 2010, according to the University of Connecticuts Crash Data Repository, the intersection had one of, if not the highest number of crashes in the corridor study area.

The Route 37 intersections of Stacey Road and nearby Barnum Road have been reconfigured as part of a state Department of Transportation project that involved road widening and realignment, the addition of turn lanes and traffic signals and the elimination of the outdated Y-shaped intersection at Stacey Road.

To enhance safety and mobility, WestCOG recommends pedestrian signal heads on Stacey Road, as well as the installation of a sidewalk on the east side of Route 37 from the intersection to Padanaram Road, as well as a sidewalk from Barnum Road to Bear Mountain Road.

WestCOG made a number of other recommendations for improving the stretch of Route 37  ranging from sidewalk, crosswalk, signal and sign installations to turn-lane additions, road realignments and shoulder widening.

Among the more than 10 spots identified for needed improvements were the intersections of Route 39 and Saw Mill Road in New Fairfield, as well as Peck, Stacey, Barnum, Padanaram and Golden Hill roads and Jeanette Street in Danbury.

The estimated cost to implement all the recommendations in WestCOGs report is between $4.7 million and $7.8 million.

Due to high traffic volume, Route 37 at Route 39 in New Fairfields center was the busiest intersection in the northern part of WestCOGs study area.

With signal work already planned for that intersection, WestCOGs recommended installing a southbound left-turn lane on Route 37, reducing the speed limit to 30 mph and installing a speed-feedback sign in the southbound direction of Route 37.

WestCOG proposes that the sidewalk in the southwest area of the intersection be upgraded to a multi-use path as part of a proposed trail that would stretch from New Fairfields town center to Bear Mountain Road in Danbury.

New Fairfields Board of Selectmen is awaiting a presentation on the study.

Reservoir trail

Part of the Route 37 corridor study looked at the possible construction of the long-proposed trail along the Margerie Reservoir  a concept introduced more than a decade ago.

In its report, WestCOG supported the idea of constructing a 10-foot-wide trail along the reservoir and recommended connecting it to the proposed multi-use path from Bear Mountain Road to downtown New Fairfield.

We are very excited about the possibility of having the Margerie trail on the New Fairfield side, New Fairfield First Selectman Pat Del Monaco said.

Referring to it as the biggest element of the study for New Fairfield, Del Monaco said she believes the trail would help economic development in the center of town, while giving people a safe place to walk and ride bicycles.

The project would come with an estimated cost of $2 million to $3.5 million, and take about five years to complete, according to WestCOGs report.

After introducing a bill earlier this year to authorize state bonds for design and planning of the long-proposed Margerie Reservoir Trail, state Rep. Ken Gucker put in a $4 million bonding request for the project.

RELATED: It could almost be like a destination: Bill supports Danbury, New Fairfields Margerie trail

Gucker  a Democrat representing Danbury, New Fairfield and Ridgefields 138th District  said the request is pending State Bond Commission approval.

WestCOG considered three design concepts for the reservoir trail  a side path adjacent to Route 37, an entirely off-road trail through the woods of the reservoir property, and a hybrid design that combines the side path and off-road trail concepts  and deemed the third one most feasible.

The hybrid concept would not only minimize effects to the areas natural resources, WestCOG found, but be responsive to grade challenges and complement other pedestrian recommendations like proposed sidewalks along the Route 37 stretch from Bear Mountain Road to Padanaram Road.

Since Danbury owns the Margerie Reservoir property and would be responsible for securing appropriate permits, WestCOG noted the citys acceptance of a conceptual alignment design is critical for the plans implementation.

Del Monaco said New Fairfield looks forward to working with its neighboring municipality to turn the idea into reality.
The Fairfield Chamber of Commerce, recently presented its seventh annual Fairfield Emerging Leaders Organization $1,500 Scholarship Awards to two students: Conor Ortega, a recent graduate of Fairfield Warde High School, and Griffin Boyle, a recent graduate of Fairfield Ludlowe High School.

The scholarships honor a graduating senior from each high school who plans to further his or her studies in business and finance.

Ortega and Boyle both maintained standards of excellence throughout their four years of high school at their respective school, revealed a strong interest in business and embodied excellent volunteer and leadership qualities.

Ortega is attending the University of Connecticut in the fall and will major in business and finance, after starting successful businesses and comes from a long line of entrepreneurs.

Boyle is attending San Diego State University in the fall and will major in business after completing 100 hours of community service in 12 months.

Members of the organization regularly host events to help raise money for the scholarship awards. Contact the Chamber at 203-255-1011, or email the chambers president, Beverly Balaz, at beverly@fairfieldctchamber.com for more information about FELO.

Upcoming art exhibition announced

The art gallery, Hollis Taggart Southport, is having an art exhibition Reunion: A group exhibition, at 330 Pequot Ave., from July 17 through Sept. 4.

An opening for the art exhibition is also taking place on July 17, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the gallery. Eight of the exhibiting artists will be present.

The art exhibit will feature recent paintings and sculptures by 10 contemporary artists, many of whom are formally associated with the gallery. Reuniting many of the gallerys artists to celebrate the first anniversary of the gallerys opening at its Southport location, the art exhibit will also highlight each of its artists style, technique, medium, themes, and intentions, while also showcasing works of art that represent the latest developments in contemporary art.

Chamber of Commerce launches brick campaign

The Fairfield Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 75th anniversary with the launch of a brick campaign.

In partnership with the town, the chamber invites local businesses and organizations to become a part of Fairfields downtown streetscape by purchasing a commemorative brick in celebration of the anniversary and as part of the chambers Buy-A-Brick program.

The chambers goal is pay tribute to the business community, acknowledge the importance of the business community, and recognize 75 years of dedicated support from the chamber.

The bricks purchased through this fundraiser will partially be used to help beautify, and reconstruct the existing semicircle pocket park alongside the Fairfield Public Library on the Post Road, in the heart of downtown. Sponsor businesses may purchase bench plaques, which will be mounted on the surrounding benches. There is a limited quantity for these. The bricks will be installed as part of a town streetscape enhancement project that is tentatively planned for later this year.

Only businesses, and organizations in the town may purchase a commemorative brick. The standard four-inch-by-eight-inch brick option allows up to four lines of text with 18 characters on each line. The eight-inch-by-eight-inch brick allows up to six lines of text with 18 characters on each line. An eight-inch-by-eight-inch corporate logo brick is available with a companys logo, and up to three lines of text. The deadline to purchase an engraved brick is Aug. 31.

Prices start at $250 for a standard engraved brick.

Visit the chambers website at fairfieldctchamber.com, or contact the chamber by calling 203-755-1011, or emailing the chambers administrative manager, Krista McCormack, at krista@fairfieldctchamber.com for more information.

Gallery opens new show

Art/Place Gallery invites the public to a reception for a member show, Another Opening, Another Show, on July 18 from 2 to 5 p.m. Different artists will talk about their work during the reception. The show can be seen from July 18 to Aug. 29 from noon to 5 p.m. every day at 70 Sanford Street in Fairfield. It includes work in a variety of mediums, styles, sizes, and subjects.

Visit www.artplacegallery.org or call 203- 374-9720 or 646-258-6912.

Art/Place is a non-profit, artist-run gallery that has been in existence for more than 35 years. It features a new show by one or two members every month and several group shows a year.

Race returns this Wednesday

The Third Annual Fairfield Police Sunset 5K, prresented by MONECO Advisors, returns at 6:30 p.m. on July 21.

All proceeds will be donated to the Fairfield Police Union Scholarship Fund and The Friends of the Bigelow Center for Senior Activities. Paricipants can run a 5K or walk the one mile course, starting and ending at Penfield Beach.

All 5K and one mile participants receive the same shirts and amenities. Only online registration is offered, which will be available until 15 minutes before the event starts or it sells out. No paper/in-person registration will be available on the day of the event.

It costs about $40 to do the 5K and $35 to walk the mile. There is also a $10 food truck option so spectators, friends and family can access the food and drinks available.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in West Virginia:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

West Virginia wasn't among the states that enacted a moratorium last year halting eviction proceedings and is generally following the federal moratorium. Gov. Jim Justice had pleaded with landlords not to act toward evicting tenants during the pandemic, but thousands of eviction cases were filed, anyway.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Justice was among four governors, all Republicans, who chose not to set up statewide rent-relief programs last year after Congress passed its first coronavirus relief package.

This year, West Virginia received $152 million for emergency rental assistance under the American Rescue Plan championed by President Joe Biden. Renters who meet income thresholds can apply for the program, administered by the West Virginia Housing Development Fund. An additional $38.5 million is earmarked to help low-income residents pay utility bills.

Public housing authorities and local government consortiums throughout the state also have received millions of dollars this year from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to help offer rental assistance.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Magistrate courts have continued to accept eviction filings, but most hearings have been delayed until the CDC moratorium expires, said West Virginia Supreme Court spokeswoman Jennifer Bundy. Once the freeze ends, the state court system can expect an influx of filings and hearings, she said.

According to Legal Aid of West Virginia, the court eviction process moves fast. Typically a magistrate court hearing is held no more than 10 days after a landlord starts a case.

There are two types of procedures. One, called a summary eviction, is used by a landlord to take quick action, but generally they cannot ask for monetary damages or rent unless the tenant fails to answer the complaint or appear at trial. Under the other procedure, called an unlawful detainer, the landlord can ask for damages.

Bundy said 10,625 summary eviction cases were filed from June 2020 to June 2021, while there were 920 unlawful detainer cases.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

The market value for a two-bedroom apartment in West Virginia is among the lowest in the nation at $778, but many residents can't even afford that. About 16% of West Virginia residents live in poverty, while 34% of children had parents who did not work full time in 2019, according to the U.S. Census.

The National Low Income Housing Coalition said there is a shortage of affordable rental homes available to low-income households. It says the annual household income needed to rent a two-bedroom home in the state is about $31,000.

It sounds like affordable housing, but its not affordable when youre not making even $15 an hour, said Ellen Allen, executive director of the nonprofit assistance group Covenant House in Charleston. Theres so many people that are on the edge, that are just cobbling together enough part-time jobs to get their rent and utilities paid.

The Washington, D.C., metropolitan market, which is among the most expensive in the country, includes parts of West Virginia's Eastern Panhandle. The median monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment there had risen 5.9% over the last year to $2,328, according to a report released June 16 by Realtor.com.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Allen said she is greatly concerned that homelessness will rise as court cases are heard.

One indication of the scope of the problem is census data showing 6,042 state residents worried that they could be evicted over the next two months.
OTTAWA, ON, July 13, 2021 /CNW/ -

Summary

Products: Face masks manufactured by Shandong Shengquan New Materials Co. Ltd. labelled to contain biomass graphene.

Face masks manufactured by Shandong Shengquan New Materials Co. Ltd. labelled to contain biomass graphene. Issue: Health Canada assessed four models produced by the company and found no health risks of concern. As a result, sale of these masks can resume in Canada . No other graphene face masks are currently permitted for sale in Canada . If additional graphene masks are permitted for sale, Health Canada will update Canadians.

Health Canada assessed four models produced by the company and found no health risks of concern. As a result, sale of these masks can resume in . No other graphene face masks are currently permitted for sale in . If additional graphene masks are permitted for sale, Health Canada will update Canadians. What to do: Do not use face masks labelled to contain graphene unless they are listed in the table below. Report any health product adverse events or complaints to Health Canada.

Health Canada previously advised Canadians not to use face masks that contain graphene after a preliminary assessment identified some potential for inhaled graphene particles to cause early lung effects in animals (e.g., early signs of inflammation). As a precaution while a risk assessment was ongoing, Health Canada directed all known importers and distributors of these masks to remove four mask models from one manufacturer, Shandong Shengquan New Materials Co. Ltd., from the market.

Health Canada has reviewed the available scientific literature along with data provided by Shandong Shengquan New Materials Co. Ltd., related to the biomass graphene contained within its four models. The review found that biomass graphene particles are not shed from these masks in quantities that are likely to cause adverse lung effects.

Health Canada also determined that the filtration performance of these masks meets the performance standard listed on the label. The Department did not find evidence that biomass graphene provides any added antimicrobial, or antiviral protection.

As a result, given the evidence supporting the safety and effectiveness of these products, Health Canada is permitting the sale of the four Shandong Shengquan New Materials Co. Ltd. mask models to resume in Canada (see models listed below).

No other graphene face masks are currently permitted for sale in Canada. Consumers should notify Health Canada by submitting an online complaint form should they become aware of other graphene masks being sold in Canada.

Companies wishing to sell graphene masks must first provide evidence to Health Canada demonstrating the safety and effectiveness of their models, as the risks with using graphene masks may vary depending on mask design.

Graphene masks permitted for sale

Manufacturer Model Number Shandong Shengquan New Materials Co. Ltd. SMDP20605 SNN200642 SNN70369B (C-Shaped) SNN70370B (Willow Leaf-Shaped)

Health Canada will continue to update Canadians if additional graphene masks are permitted for sale in Canada.

Original Advisory (April 2, 2021): Face masks that contain graphene may pose health risks

Issue

Health Canada is advising Canadians not to use face masks that contain graphene because there is a potential that they could inhale graphene particles, which may pose health risks.

Graphene is a novel nanomaterial (materials made of tiny particles) reported to have antiviral and antibacterial properties. Health Canada conducted a preliminary scientific assessment after being made aware that masks containing graphene have been sold with COVID-19 claims and used by adults and children in schools and daycares. Health Canada believes they may also have been distributed for use in health care settings.

Health Canada's preliminary assessment of available research identified that inhaled graphene particles had some potential to cause early lung toxicity in animals. However, the potential for people to inhale graphene particles from face masks and the related health risks are not yet known, and may vary based on mask design. The health risk to people of any age is not clear. Variables, such as the amount and duration of exposure, and the type and characteristics of the graphene material used, all affect the potential to inhale particles and the associated health risks. Health Canada has requested data from mask manufacturers to assess the potential health risks related to their masks that contain graphene.

Until the Department completes a thorough scientific assessment and has established the safety and effectiveness of graphene-containing face masks, it is taking the precautionary approach of removing them from the market while continuing to gather and assess information. Health Canada has directed all known distributors, importers and manufacturers to stop selling and to recall the affected products. Additionally, Health Canada has written to provinces and territories advising them to stop distribution and use of masks containing graphene. The Department will continue to take appropriate action to stop the import and sale of graphene face masks.

Affected products

Face masks labelled as containing graphene or biomass graphene.

What you should do

Do not use face masks labelled to contain graphene or biomass graphene.

Consult your health care provider if you have used graphene face masks and have health concerns, such as new or unexplained shortness of breath, discomfort or difficulty breathing.

Report any health product adverse events or complaints regarding graphene face masks to Health Canada.

Related links

Egalement disponible en francais

SOURCE Health Canada

For further information: Media Enquiries: Health Canada, (613) 957-2983, [email protected]; Public Enquiries (613) 957-2991, 1-866 225-0709, [email protected]
Choy's association with the Society dates back to 2014 when she became involved in the Victoria Strait Expedition, which searched for the lost ships of the Franklin expedition. She has since been involved with science outreach to youth through Canadian Geographic Education.

"It is a tremendous honour to be named an Explorer-in-Residence of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, and as the first female scientist," says Choy. "I hope to inspire youth from diverse backgrounds to develop an interest in wildlife issues in the North. I also hope the support I receive will help to expand my partnerships with northern communities with whom I've been very honoured to work."

Choy is currently a postdoctoral fellow in the natural resource sciences department at McGill University in Montreal. Her studies have taken her to some of the most remote places in the Canadian Arctic as she follows the impacts of climate change on Arctic marine predators.

The Explorer-in-Residence program aims to provide Canadians with visible modern-day role models for exploration, scientific discoveries and adventure travel in Canada. They act as ambassadors for the Society with the aim to further promote the Society's mandate to "Make Canada better known to Canadians and to the world."

ABOUT THE ROYAL CANADIAN GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY

Publisher of Canadian Geographic, the RCGS is dedicated to imparting a broader knowledge and deeper appreciation of Canada  its people and places, its natural and cultural heritage and its environmental, social and economic opportunities. The Society is one of Canada's largest non-profit educational organizations, comprising more than 25,000 members from across the country. The RCGS is funded primarily by membership fees and donations. The Society's board of governors and its program committees are composed entirely of volunteers.

Social Media Links: @RCGS_SGRC @CanGeo

SOURCE Royal Canadian Geographical Society

For further information: Media Information: Keegan Hoban, Communications Coordinator, The Royal Canadian Geographical Society, [email protected] or (877)786-2376 ext. 138

Related Links

http://www.rcgs.org/


"Baxter Canada is extremely proud of the support we've been able to provide for Canadians during this unprecedented time, with critical programs that deliver essential services and equipment to take care of our most vulnerable communities," says James Teaff, President and General Manager, Baxter Canada. "As we continue to assess the needs of Canadians across the country as a result of the pandemic, our partnership with the Canadian Red Cross, along with the unwavering commitment from our employees, offers us the unique opportunity to enhance our programs and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others."

With initiatives like the "No Place Like Home" program, Baxter employees volunteered their time to make a positive impact, sending more than 400 personalized cards to isolated seniors in 2020 and volunteering with the Canadian Red Cross to execute programs such as the Mobile Food Bank. These efforts helped spread hope and joy to many Canadians during a challenging time.

The report highlights Baxter's contributions through its signature Welcome Home program:

The Health Equipment Loan Program (HELP) supports Canadians in British Columbia and the Yukon with essential short and long-term health equipment loans, a service that has only grown more critical during the pandemic where traditional access to health and care have been disrupted.

Baxter's support facilitated:

Serving 28,424 clients in B.C. and loaning 57,179 pieces of health equipment





Recruiting 479 volunteers, a 90 person increase from 2019





The employment of a full-time employee dedicated to recruitment for HELP volunteers in the Lower Mainland region in B.C.

The Priority Assistance to Transition Home (PATH) program allows seniors to feel supported and cared for as they transition from hospital to recover at home. This was adapted to a physically distanced model this year including innovative adjustments to the regular program, such as virtual grocery shopping, physically distanced transportation, home visits with the use of PPE, friendly phone calls and wellness checks to keep spirits lifted.

Through this program, Baxter's support in Ontario provided:

1,810 PATH clients with 532 safe transitions from hospital to home





Providing 6,011 service hours after their initial transition home





619 referrals for clients to community resources

The Mobile Food Bank is a service that distributes food hampers to individuals in the Greater Toronto Area who are unable to access a traditional food bank. In response to the pandemic, the Canadian Red Cross adapted this service to create the Toronto Food Delivery program, supported by the City of Toronto/Daily Bread Food Bank to assist those who were especially vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus and unable to leave their home due to underlying health conditions.

Delivering 52,371 food boxes to an additional 4,161 people through the Toronto Food Delivery program

Baxter's support in Ontario facilitated:

Serving 573 clients a month through the Mobile Food Bank





31 Baxter employees volunteering for a total of 93 volunteer hours

The Canadian Red Cross Partners in Humanity Award 2020

As a leader of innovation in health care, Baxter Canada was awarded the Canadian Red Cross Partners in Humanity Award for 2020, supporting the Canadian Red Cross during COVID-19 as it adapted and built new solutions to the unique health problems that Canadians faced. The Partners in Humanity Award recognizes corporate partners that make an impact at the national or international level, engage volunteers, enhance the reach of the Canadian Red Cross, and promote the Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement.

Baxter Canada and the Canadian Red Cross are continuing into the fourth year of its partnership, with a commitment to develop and expand programs in need. Looking forward, Baxter's support will focus on expanding the PATH program to key markets, continuing to build on community outreach efforts in the Lower Mainland of B.C. to recruit and train new HELP volunteers. In addition to the support on the HELP and PATH programs, Baxter Canada and the Canadian Red Cross will work together on a new initiative, the Indigenous Program Creating Safe Environments Program, to understand community needs and create a safer place, rooted in Indigenous culture and practice in Northern Ontario.

For more information on how to support the Canadian Red Cross, visit www.redcross.ca. To see how Baxter's Welcome Home program is helping those in underserved communities, look at the Year Three Impact Report, and #BaxterGivesBack on social media.

About Baxter Canada

Every day, millions of patients and caregivers rely on Baxter's leading portfolio of critical care, nutrition, renal, hospital and surgical products. In Canada, we've been operating at the critical intersection where innovations that save and sustain lives meet the healthcare providers that make it happen for 83 years. With products, technologies and therapies available in more than 100 countries, Baxter's employees worldwide are now building upon the company's rich heritage of medical breakthroughs to advance the next generation of transformative healthcare innovations. Baxter Canada and its over 1,200 employees are located primarily in Ontario at the Head Office, CIVA Admixing and Technical Services Centres in Mississauga, and in Alliston  where Baxter operates Canada's only large-scale manufacturing plant producing life-sustaining intravenous and dialysis solutions. To learn more, visit www.baxter.ca and follow Baxter on LinkedIn .

Baxter is a registered trademark of Baxter International Inc.

SOURCE Baxter Corporation

For further information: Media Contact: Lori Ann Horrigan, (844) 838-8305, [email protected]

Related Links

baxter.ca


Ruling Concerns US$545 Million Arbitral Award in Favor of Moldovan Investors

NEW YORK, June 30, 2021 /CNW/ -- The Brussels Court of Appeal on June 29, 2021, rejected the appeals brought by the Republic of Kazakhstan and the National Bank of Kazakhstan (NBK) against an attachment of Kazakhstan's state assets in Belgium. The attachment followed Kazakhstan's continued unlawful refusal to pay a US$545 million final and binding arbitral award in the Stati parties' favor in December 2013.

The Stati parties in October 2017 obtained an attachment of assets of Kazakhstan's National Fund on Belgian soil totaling US$22.6 billion held by BNY Mellon (BNYM) in its capacity as the global custodian of the National Fund and managed by NBK in its capacity as the trustee manager of the Fund. The size of the attachment was later reduced to US$530 million in line with the then-value of the award and is presently estimated to equal US$542 million including accrued interest.

The Brussels Court of First Instance in May 2018 rejected Kazakhstan's and NBK's original petitions to lift the attachment. In its 44-page ruling, the Brussels Court of Appeal has once again sided with the Stati parties and dismissed the Kazakh parties' appeals against the first instance court ruling in their entirety by holding that "the concrete circumstances of the case contain sufficient indications of the existence of simulation" deployed by Kazakhstan in order to hide its assets beyond the reach of the award creditors.

The Court further found that "this is clearly a case of created appearances, which the Stati parties rightly contest by levying an attachment against the real holder of the bank accounts/funds" and that the underlying National Fund trust management agreement between Kazakhstan's Ministry of Finance and NBK is "a mere pretence to the outside world and third parties."

The Court also rejected all of Kazakhstan's and NBK's arguments relating to state immunity of the attached assets by holding that the relevant National Fund assets "are invested solely with a view to maximizing long-term returns" and as such "do not fall under the protection of state immunity."

Notably, the Belgian court also rejected Kazakhstan's and NBK's allegations that the award has been procured by fraud by noting that the award has been upheld twice by the Swedish Supreme Court and holding that the Stati Parties claims against the Republic are "certain, of a fixed amount and due."

Anatolie Stati, CEO and sole shareholder of Ascom Group S.A., one of the award creditors, said: "We welcome this ruling of the Belgian court, which once again confirms the award creditors' entitlement to full compensation under the award and paves the way for the collection of the frozen funds from BNY Mellon. Meanwhile, the flagrant contempt with which Kazakhstan's Ministry of Justice treats the rule of law and foreign investors has created a dangerous legal precedent for the country, and it has already severely damaged Kazakhstan's international reputation and investment climate."

Egishe Dzhazoyan, partner at law firm King & Spalding, global litigation counsel to the Stati parties, said: "This is an historic win for the award creditors. It sets a landmark international precedent in the context of enforcement of arbitral awards against sovereign states. The ruling's significance is further underscored by the fact that it allows recourse against attached assets, which are nominally managed by a state's central bank and are held by an independent third party. We are pleased that the Belgian courts never lost sight of the fact that it was the Republic of Kazakhstan that has always been and remains the sole and true owner of the attached assets and accordingly the true creditor of BNY Mellon, as the court has found."

In addition to the Belgian attachment, the Stati parties have successfully secured and maintain the benefit of various other attachments of Kazakh state property in the Netherlands, Luxembourg and Sweden, with the combined total value of all attachments worldwide exceeding US$6.25 billion.

The Belgian court ruling is the latest development in the Stati parties' long-running battle to enforce the award for Kazakhstan's violations of the investor protection provisions of the Energy Charter Treaty. In December 2013, a Sweden based arbitration tribunal found that Kazakhstan had violated international law by failing to treat the Stati parties' investments in Kazakhstan fairly and equitably, and awarded the Stati parties more than US$500 million in damages, legal costs, and interest. The award has since been fully upheld by two tiers of the Swedish judiciary, including twice by the Swedish Supreme Court.

The claims originally arose out of Kazakhstan's seizure of the Stati parties' petroleum operations in 2010. Starting from 1999, the Stati parties acquired two companies that held idle licenses in the Borankol and Tolkyn fields and Tabyl block in Kazakhstan. They invested more than US$1 billion over the ensuing decade to turn the companies into successful exploration and production businesses. By late 2008, the businesses had become profitable and had yielded considerable revenues for the Kazakh state. Just as the Stati parties expected to start receiving dividends, more than half a dozen government agencies carried out multiple burdensome inspections and audits of the companies' businesses that resulted in false accusations of illegal conduct directed at the Stati parties and their Kazakh companies, including criminal prosecutions of their general managers on false pretenses. Kazakhstan's actions challenged the Stati parties' title to their investments, subjected them to hundreds of millions of dollars in unwarranted tax assessments and criminal penalties, and ultimately led to the seizure and nationalization of their investments by Kazakh authorities in July 2010.

MEDIA CONTACTS

Kimberly Macleod

(917) 587-0069

[email protected]

Chris Winans

(908) 309-3959

[email protected]

SOURCE Ascom Group S.A.
Partnership brings AssetCare to the largest oil and gas, refining, and petrochemical operators alongside retail and mega building complexes in Saudi Arabia

Paves the way for AssetCare to support the digitalization and ESG objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's national economic action plan

CALGARY, AB, July 13, 2021 /CNW/ - mCloud Technologies Corp. (TSXV: MCLD) (OTCQB: MCLDF) ("mCloud" or the "Company"), a leading provider of AI-powered asset management and Environmental, Social, and Governance ("ESG") solutions today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding ("MOU") with URBSOFT, a strategic provider of advanced ground and aerial inspection technology solutions supporting the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its transformative industrial and urban programs.

The MOU partners mCloud with URBSOFT to jointly take the full portfolio of AssetCare solutions to market in Saudi Arabia. Together, mCloud and URBSOFT will combine and deliver industrial visual inspection solutions using the Company's 3D capabilities and URBSOFT's advanced GIS and GPS technologies to major oil and gas, petrochemical, and process industry sites. Both companies will also drive the adoption of AssetCare smart building solutions in tandem with URBSOFT's urban technology portfolio across numerous prominent Saudi building initiatives and the Kingdom's retail sector.

mCloud expects this partnership to fuel major growth for its regional business in the Middle East, with URBSOFT well-positioned to lead regional sales, broker strategic relationships, and implement AssetCare across the Kingdom. URBSOFT is principal advisor to the Saudi Government for Saudi Vision 2030, a national economic action plan including major multi-billion dollar investments in the adoption of new technologies for industrial development, logistics, and smart city transformation.

In this role, URBSOFT and its leadership maintain pivotal ties to the largest oil and gas, petrochemical, and building developers and operators in Saudi Arabia. Through URBSOFT and Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom is positioned to lead the adoption of ESG and digitalization solutions in these sectors.

Russ McMeekin, mCloud President and CEO said: "During my recent trip to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, I was amazed by the degree to which digital technologies have been integrated into every aspect of life in the Kingdom. While there, I had the opportunity to meet many industry leaders eager to accelerate the digital transformation and decarbonization of their businesses. I also met with numerous building operators seeking the best technologies to reduce their carbon footprint and improve indoor air quality. Our partnership with URBSOFT makes AssetCare the Kingdom's ESG technology solution of choice. Put simply, mCloud is now open for business in Saudi Arabia."

"In partnership with mCloud, URBSOFT has already begun to introduce mCloud and AssetCare to notable industrial players including Saudi Aramco, SABIC, and Sipchem," said Dr. Ahmed Alkadi, URBSOFT CEO. "We believe mCloud's technology will play a key role for the Kingdom in achieving its goal of reducing GHG emissions and energy consumption in the Saudi petrochemical industry and around the world."

"We are also engaging our urban technology network, which includes the King Abdullah Financial District, NEOM, the Red Sea Project, AMAALA, and more to create an ecosystem where AssetCare can play a role in helping urban innovations flourish," Dr. Alkadi added.

For more information on Saudi Vision 2030, visit https://www.vision2030.gov.sa.

About mCloud Technologies Corp.

mCloud is unlocking the untapped potential of energy intensive assets with AI and analytics, curbing energy waste, maximizing energy production, and getting the most out of critical energy infrastructure. Through mCloud's AI-powered AssetCare platform, mCloud offers complete asset management solutions for commercial buildings, renewable energy, healthcare, heavy industry, and connected workers. IoT sensors bring data from connected assets into the cloud, where AI and analytics are applied to maximize their performance.

Headquartered in Canada with offices worldwide, the mCloud family includes an ecosystem of operating subsidiaries that deliver high-performance IoT, AI, 3D, and mobile capabilities to customers, all integrated into AssetCare. With over 100 blue-chip customers and more than 61,000 assets connected in thousands of locations worldwide, mCloud is changing the way energy assets are managed.

mCloud's common shares trade on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol MCLD and on the OTCQB under the symbol MCLDF. mCloud's convertible debentures trade on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol MCLD.DB. For more information, visit www.mcloudcorp.com .

About URBSOFT

Established in 2014, URBSOFT is a fast-growing company that offers innovative urban technologies and services grounded in design thinking, digital product innovation, customer experience management, and digital transformation. No matter the industry, device, objective, or technology platform, we are driven to improve the human relationship with technology by designing and building meaningful connections between companies and their customers. For more information, visit www.urbsoft.com .

Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This press release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and may also contain statements that may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are not representative of historical facts or information or current condition, but instead represent only the Company's beliefs regarding future events, plans or objectives, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of the Company's control. Generally, such forward-looking information or forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or may contain statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "will continue", "will occur" or "will be achieved". The forward-looking information contained herein may include information related to the joint sales, marketing, and delivery of AssetCare solutions with URBSOFT in Saudi Arabia.

By identifying such information and statements in this manner, the Company is alerting the reader that such information and statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such information and statements.

An investment in securities of the Company is speculative and subject to several risks as discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" on pages 29 to 46 of the Company's filing statement dated October 5, 2017. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended.

In connection with the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release, the Company has made certain assumptions. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing, and the expectations contained in, the forward-looking information and statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and statements, and no assurance or guarantee can be given that such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information and statements. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information and/or forward-looking statements that are contained or referenced herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. All subsequent written and oral forward- looking information and statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf is expressly qualified in its entirety by this notice.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE mCloud Technologies Corp.

For further information: Wayne Andrews, RCA Financial Partners Inc., T: 727-268-0113, [email protected]; Barry Po, Chief Marketing Officer, mCloud Technologies Corp., T: 866-420-1781
OTTAWA, ON, July 14, 2021 /CNW/ - On July 6, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) shared a notification about a possible Business Email Compromise (BEC) scam with the United States Secret Service (USSS) Ottawa Field Office that resulted in saving a U.S. based company from losing almost $750,000 (U.S.) and a number of jobs. In order to respect the privacy of the victim, we will not be sharing the name of the company at this time.

This success was made possible because a Canadian company reported the scam to CAFC in June. The CAFC notified partners, including the USSS, about the scam and the related account. The USSS shared the notification further with their contacts leading a bank investigator to discover that a U.S. company was transferring almost $750,000 (U.S.) to this fraudulent account.

The bank investigator put a hold on the transfer, contacted the company and began procedures to reverse the funds. A company employee expressed their thanks and said the interception had potentially saved jobs.

BEC scams among the most financially damaging online scams. In a BEC scam, a fraudster will send an email that is spoofed to look like it's coming from a known and trusted source. The following are examples of a BEC message:

A business receives a duplicate invoice with updated payment details supposedly from an existing supplier or contractor.

An accountant or financial planner receives a large withdrawal request that looks like it's coming from their client's email.

Payroll receives an email claiming to be from an employee looking to update their bank account information.

An email that seems to come from a trusted source asks you to download an attachment, but the attachment is malware that infiltrates an entire network or infrastructure

An email that seems to come from trusted source asks you to buy gift cards.

If you have been a victim of scam, fraud or cybercrime, please contact your local police. We also encourage you to report an instance, whether you are a victim or not, with the CAFC via the Online Reporting System or by phone at 1-888-495-8501. By filing a report, you can provide invaluable information that could protect others.

Quotes

"Unlike many traditional crimes, scams and fraud span over a number of jurisdictional borders. This incident is an excellent example of the importance of international partnerships and reporting to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Without the initial report from the Canadian company, there could have been devastating losses to both the company and to people's lives. I hope this story encourages both individuals and businesses to report scams and fraud when they come across them and to educate themselves further on the variations so they know what to look for."

- Sergeant Guy Paul Larocque, Officer in Charge at the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, and RCMP Mass Marketing and Serious Fraud Coordinator

"On a daily basis, the Secret Service offices throughout Canada work closely with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre in an effort to coordinate criminal investigations that transcends our common borders. As transnational criminal organizations target U.S. and Canadian interests through sophisticated cyber-enabled fraud schemes, our collaborative efforts are paramount to our continued success. This incident is one of numerous examples of the shared successes between our agencies, resulting in millions of dollars returned to U.S. and Canadian citizens. The United States Secret Service Ottawa Field Office values the exemplary relationship shared with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, and the various public/private sector partners for the swift response to matters of mutual interest."

- Special Agent in Charge Robert Lamour, United States Secret Service, Ottawa Field Office

Quick Facts

As a National Police Service, the CAFC is Canada's central repository for data, intelligence and resource material as it relates to fraud and is jointly operated by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Competition Bureau and the Ontario Provincial Police. The CAFC does not conduct investigations but provides valuable assistance to law enforcement agencies all over the world by identifying connections among seemingly unrelated cases.

central repository for data, intelligence and resource material as it relates to fraud and is jointly operated by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Competition Bureau and the Ontario Provincial Police. The CAFC does not conduct investigations but provides valuable assistance to law enforcement agencies all over the world by identifying connections among seemingly unrelated cases. BEC scams fall under the category of "spear phishing", which is known for being one of the most common and most dangerous attack methods currently used to conduct fraud, usually on businesses and organizations.

Over the past two years, spear phishing has been in the top 2 for reported financial losses to the CAFC.

In 2020, the CAFC received 1,680 reports of spear phishing where 779 victims reported losses of $29.9 million .

. In 2019, the CAFC received 1,044 reports of spear phishing with 560 victims reporting losses of $38.5 million .

. In Canada , it is estimated that about only 5% of all scams and fraud are reported.

Associated Links

SOURCE Royal Canadian Mounted Police

For further information: Royal Canadian Mounted Police Media Relationsl, [email protected]
As parents and kids alike look forward to finally going back to school, Justice launches at Walmart Canada with a new back to school collection that includes more than 140 items across tween fashion, footwear, jewelry and accessories, bedding, backpacks and stationery. Customers will find athleisure separates including fashion leggings starting at $8, tie dye sweatshirts and joggers starting at $13, and oversized hoodies starting at $18. The collection will also feature bedding sets, pillows, throws ranging from $20-$40. New styles will be added seasonally.

"Justice is a popular brand our customers know and love, and with the back-to-school shopping season underway, this new collection comes at the perfect time for our customers looking to elevate their style," said Marlise Wilson, Sr. Director Kids Apparel, Walmart Canada. "We're thrilled to partner with Justice as its exclusive fashion retailer as we continue to expand our assortment, offering customers quality, on-trend and accessible style at an incredible value."

Justice, owned by Blue Star Alliance, is known for its cutting-edge tween apparel and accessories that translate each season's aspirational trends into looks that help girls feel confident. From 90s inspired streetwear and athleisure separates with bold and vibrant prints to denim featuring the latest silhouettes, washes and distresses, Justice offers the latest styles for every girl at a price point attainable for every Walmart customer.

"Bringing Justice to Walmart Canada is such a natural fit," says Ralph Gindi, President of Bluestar Alliance. "Justice connects to so many girls in an incredibly impactful way, we wanted to make sure even more consumers would have the opportunity to grow up with the brand. This is truly an exciting moment for Justice and its core consumer.

Walmart Canada will be the exclusive in store experience for the Justice brand. With Walmart's incredible scale and reach, Justice will bring the same quality, design and trends to more doors than ever before. The most unique aspect of this partnership is the ability to utilize the core Justice design team. According to Justice Design Lab President, Kat DePizzo, "I am so thrilled to continue this beloved brand on in partnership with Walmart. I was able to maintain the heart of the Justice design and product team, all who have been responsible for creating the amazing products that our customers have known and loved for years. I have spent 14 years with the Justice brand, and I couldn't be more excited to bring it back to the Canadian customer in even more doors than ever before. We've been busy creating a back-to-school assortment that is on-trend, fashion first, and with the same quality and value that our customer expects. This once-in a-brand opportunity to partner with Walmart is a career milestone for me."

About Walmart Canada

Walmart Canada operates a chain of more than 400 stores nationwide serving 1.5 million customers each day. Walmart Canada's flagship online store, Walmart.ca is visited by more than 900,000 customers daily. With more than 100,000 associates, Walmart Canada is one of Canada's largest employers and is ranked one of the country's top 10 most influential brands. Walmart Canada was recently recognized as a LinkedIn Top Company of 2021 and was also named one of Canada's most popular brands (based on Google searches). Walmart Canada's extensive philanthropy program is focused on supporting Canadian families in need, and since 1994 Walmart Canada has raised and donated more than $500 million to Canadian charities.

About Justice

Justice, owned & managed by Bluestar Alliance, is the premier tween girls' brand, building exciting and powerful connections through fashion and fun. We create apparel and lifestyle products that celebrate every girl's unique sense of self. From must-have trends to pop-culture, the Justice brand is all about inspiring and empowering every girl, every day. Your girl is the heart of Justice. Additional information about Bluestar Alliance can be found by visiting the corporate website, www.bluestaralliance.com.

SOURCE Walmart Canada Corp.

For further information: Media Relations Contacts: Felicia Fefer, Walmart Canada, [email protected]

Related Links

www.walmart.ca


Way back in April 2018, the company was instructed to store the data of a payment system providers in a system only in India within a period of six months. On failing to do so, RBI has taken action against them.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed restrictions on MasterCard making it unable to grant cards to new domestic customers from July 22. All three categories of debit, credit and prepaid will be unavailable to customers who want to opt for the MasterCard. According to the RBI, the action was taken because MasterCard failed to comply with the central banks norms on storage of payment systems data.

Notwithstanding the lapse of considerable time and adequate opportunities being given, the entity has been found to be non-compliant with the directions on Storage of Payment System Data, said the RBI. It added, however, that the decision will not affect existing users of the card. Banks and non-banks alike need to conform with the RBIs direction.

No sooner did the central bank barred the American Express and Diners Club from adding new domestic customers from May 1 this year than the same followed suit with MasterCard. HDFC bank also ended up similarly before that. Way back in April 2018, the company was instructed to store the data of a payment system providers in a system only in India within a period of six months. Since they failed, the RBI took action against them.

This is a measure taken to ensure that all payment system operators store or localise their end-to-end transaction data in the country, said RBIs founding director, Kazim Rizvi. The supervisory action has been taken in exercise of powers vested in RBI under Section 17 of the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007 (PSS Act), the RBI said.
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat is visiting the Line of Control (LoC) today to review the forces' operational preparedness. The visit comes at a time when several drone sightings have been reported in Jammu & Kashmir.

In the wake of increased infiltration attempts by Pakistan and weeks after the use of drones to attack Jammu air base by terrorists, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat is visiting the Line of Control (LoC) to review the forces operational preparedness on Thursday. He reached Jammu on Wednesday evening and expressed concerns over terrorists using drones to smuggle weapons into India to encourage terrorist activities here. General Rawat will review the security situation along the international border and Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan.

Additionally, CDS Bipin Rawat will also review the Anti-Infiltration grid during his two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir. CDS Rawat will be briefed by the Northern Army Commanders on the situation along the LoC, said Army officials on Thursday. The meeting will discuss the preparedness of forces in key forward areas in the border region. It is also being reported that terror launchpads across the border have become active again and infiltration bids have surged in recent weeks. Earlier, four infiltrators were killed as two different attempts were foiled in last few days.

Moreover in early June, CDS Bipin Rawat had also visited the forward areas along the Line of Actual Control in the central sector in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand area, where he was briefed on the operational preparedness of the forces towards safeguarding the territorial integrity of the nation at the forward-most post in the Sumdoh sub-sector.

Apart from CDS Rawat, Indian Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane is also visiting Pokhran in Rajasthan on Thursday to review the operational preparedness of the Corps of Artillery. General Naravane will also witness the firing drills of howitzers, including the Bofors and the indigenous Dhanush.
After going gaga over China, SpaceXs CEO Elon Musk has now congratulated India on successfully conducting the third long-duration hot test of Vikas engine, a crucial part of the ambitious Gaganyaan mission to take Indians to space in an Indian vehicle. He cheered for ISRO on Twitter and added Indias flag emoticon.

As SpaceX eyes India big leap, the question arises whether we can trust Elon Musk, leading to an ally vs competitor debate. Do we really Elon or he needs us more? One must not forget Elon Musk praised Chinas economic achievements on CPCs centenary celebrations in Beijing on July 1, even as tensions between India and China continue to be at its peak. The economic prosperity that China has achieved is truly amazing, especially in infrastructure! I encourage people to visit and see for themselves, he wrote.

The ISRO said on Wednesday that it tested the human rated GSLV vehicle for engine qualification requirements for the manned mission and it was successful. This was the final testing of one of the three stages of the launch vehicle which will be used in the mission to carry humans to Space. It further stated that the engine was fired for duration of 240 seconds at the space agencys Propulsion Complex in Tamil Nadus Mahendragiri.

Meanwhile, SpaceX is planning to partner with local companies to manufacture satellite communications equipment in India. It is also planning to launch its high-speed Starlink satellite broadband services in India this year.
In 2015, Ridgefield Police Lt. Craig Worsters 15-year career in law enforcement was in jeopardy.

Worster faced sexual harassment allegations for allegedly telling female officers sex-related stories, displaying explicit material and unwelcome touching. An internal police department investigation was underway over the allegations and nearing its conclusion.

But the day after being interviewed by internal investigators, Worster resigned citing family matters, according to a news report at the time. The probe reached no formal disposition and no punishment was given.

Four years later and about 500 miles away, Worster became the police chief for the Millinocket Police Department, a woodsy hamlet of 4,300 people in Northern Maine. A year after taking the job, Worster was again accused of sexual harassment  this time by the Millinocket departments female deputy chief.

That led Millinocket to fire Worster in December 2020, triggering a torrent of controversy that culminated in the town disbanding its tiny police force. Worsters termination was later overturned, a decision the town is now appealing.

Worsters saga, however, is not unique, a Hearst Connecticut Media Group investigation has found. Instead, his case underscores a national issue of police officers who land in trouble at one department, resign while under investigation or are fired, and then move on to another department. In some cases, such officers are again accused of misconduct after switching departments.

There is no complete tally of how many such officers there are nationwide. But a recent study found that, in the state of Florida alone, about 800 officers in any given year over a recent three-decade period had found new police jobs after being fired from other departments for misconduct.

Researchers who headed the study said that was likely an undercount of such so-called wandering officers in part because there is no comprehensive national database of police misconduct, which hampers departments efforts to track misconduct by other officers. Activists have pushed for such a database as a critical reform that would help departments identify and avoid hiring officers with prior serious misconduct.

Other cases of officers getting new law enforcement jobs despite troubled pasts have been documented around the country, including in New York, Ohio and Worsters case in Maine.

Hearst Connecticuts investigation also took a deeper look into two additional examples of local officers who resigned while under internal investigation or were fired by their departments for misconduct and later hired by another police department in the state. There may well be other Connecticut cases; uncovering examples is challenging because internal police records about officer misconduct are not publicly available, and obtaining them often requires formal requests under the state Freedom of Information law, which can be a slow and inconsistent process.

Hearst Connecticuts investigation exposes gray areas in Connecticut hiring rules and procedures that have allowed officers to land new jobs at local police departments despite problematic pasts.

Dan Barrett, legal director of the Connecticut Chapter of the ACLU, said the system for hiring police officers in Connecticut is not foolproof. He said its common for officers to resign during an internal investigation and then move on to another police job.

Thats why they do it, Barrett said. It makes good business sense. It stops the investigation cold and prevents the conclusion that they broke a rule. They are free to get another cop job.

Police officials, meanwhile, defended the hiring standards set for departments statewide.

Danbury Police Chief Patrick Ridenhour, president of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association, said departments try diligently to follow those requirements and hire quality officers.

We do the best we can to speak with internal affairs divisions and get the records from other departments as part of the background investigation, Ridenhour said. I dont think any department wants someone elses problem.

Ridenhour said Connecticut has taken steps to avoid problems that wandering officers have created in other states.

I think Connecticut has tried successfully to address that, Ridenhour said. We have to disclose any adverse information. You cant say No, you are not getting their files. I dont think you see that in Connecticut like in other places.

Town of Millinocket, Maine

Plainville case

In August 2020, the Plainville Police Department hired Justin Cullen, a former Manchester officer who resigned weeks earlier during an internal investigation into alleged off-duty sexual misconduct.

Cullen was accused of engaging in non-consensual sex while off duty in Southington, according to a lawsuit filed on Cullens behalf in state Superior Court. The court documents note the allegation was referred to Southington police, which closed an investigation into the matter after the alleged victim refused to pursue it.

Manchester determined Cullen should be terminated as a probationary employee and he was offered the option of resigning in lieu of termination, the court documents state.

That decision to resign left Cullen with a problem regarding his new job with Plainville.

Under Connecticut law, an officer who resigns or retires during an internal investigation for malfeasance or serious misconduct -- or is fired for the conduct -- cannot be hired by another department unless the officer was later exonerated of the conduct.

When hiring an officer, police departments must complete a background check, obtain past disciplinary reports if the applicant previously worked as an officer, and detail any offenses that disqualify the applicant from being hired.

A form containing that information is sent for review and approval to the state Police Officer Standards and Training (POST) Council, which provides a final check on whether an officer can be hired and certifies officers  essentially providing the license to work in law enforcement.

In November 2020, the POST Council rejected Cullens request for certification to work for Plainville, citing the fact that he resigned while under investigation for malfeasance or other serious misconduct.

Cullen administratively appealed the POST Council decision and filed an appeal with the state Superior Court, according to court records.

The case highlights a potential problem with the state law that regulates police hires and guides POST Council approval or rejection - what exactly constitutes malfeasance or serious misconduct? The Cullen case showed those terms can be open to interpretation and are not well defined.

The rules that govern hiring an officer are primarily established through laws passed by the state Legislature. New hiring standards were put in place last year through a sweeping Police Accountability Act passed by the state Legislature. Those rules are interpretated and administered by the POST Council, whose membership was expanded under the Police Accountability Act.

During a hearing before the POST Council, Plainville and Cullens lawyers argued the alleged misconduct did not fit the definition of, or rise to the level of, malfeasance or serious misconduct, according to minutes of the proceeding.

The appeal Cullens lawyers filed, which included the arguments made before the POST Council, was dismissed on the grounds the court lacked jurisdiction.

Lawyers representing Cullen in Superior Court, declined to comment, as did several lawyers representing Plainville and Manchester police.

In the wake of the Cullen case, the POST Council has been discussing how to more clearly define malfeasance or serious misconduct, minutes show. State lawmakers earlier this year failed to pass a bill that sought to provide a more specific definition for the terms malfeasance or serious misconduct. The bill did not change or alter rules for hiring an officer or the criteria that an applicant must meet.

Milford Police Chief Keith Mello and chairman of the states POST Council defended Connecticuts hiring practices.

There has been a lot of really good things [done to prevent] hiring people involved in serious misconduct and malfeasance, Mello said.

But, Howard Friedman, a Boston civil rights lawyer and member of the National Police Accountability Project, said even carefully-crafted hiring procedures can produce questionable results  and Connecticut is an example of that.

Sometimes the system does not always work, he said.

Fairfield case

Another local case reviewed by Hearst Connecticut happened earlier this year when Fairfield police hired Dan Loris as an officer. Loris was fired in 2020 by the Shelton Police Department for ethics and sexual harassment violations and misconduct while on duty.

That termination resulted from an internal investigation into photos of officers changing their clothes in the department parking lot that were posted on social media. Loris was involved, but its unclear exactly what role he played in the matter.

Loris filed a grievance to appeal his firing.

According to a federal lawsuit filed in June on behalf of Loris and five other officers also fired by Shelton last year, the officers actions were meant to illustrate the impact of the closure of police headquarters bathrooms to officers in April 2020.

There were no hand-washing stations or any place to change your clothes other than in the parking lot, the suit states, calling the conditions unsanitary, humiliating, and unsafe.

Michelle Holmes, a lawyer who represents Loris the other officers, said the officers should have never been fired and pointed out that only Loris has been able to find a new job.

Its highly likely the terminations in my case will be overturned by an arbitrator because they were retaliatory, said Holmes. Not every fired officer, such as Dan Loris and the five other Shelton officers I represent, are fired for just cause.

Holmes said state law disregards the possibility that a termination could be overturned by the state Board of Mediation and Arbitration, which settles union labor disputes.

The POST legislation just assumes the terminations are just but in this case they were not, Holmes said, referring to state law that sets police hiring rules. I understand the reasoning behind the legislation, but I believe it needs serious consideration and revamping.

Shelton officials have defended their actions regarding Loris.

The lawsuit is not based on any facts, Shelton Police Chief Shawn Sequeira told the Shelton Herald in June, a Hearst Connecticut Media publication.

The facts and circumstances support those disciplined and terminated were based on just cause. We continue to hold our officers accountable as the majority do their job, Sequeira said. Police officers are held to a specific standard supported by the police accountability bill.

Robert Kalamaras, Fairfields police chief, said Loris met the requirements to hire him as an officer.

Officer Loris was hired by Fairfield as a state certified police officer through the Police Officer Standards and Training Council, Kalamaras said.

During his thorough background investigation, he has fulfilled all of the state requirements necessary to assume the duties and responsibilities of a police officer and I fully support the decision of the previous chief, said Kalamaras, pointing out he did not personally hire the officer.

Linda Coan O'Kresik / Bangor Daily News

From Ridgefield to Maine

In addition to the two examples where officers moved between departments in-state, Hearst Connecticut closely researched the case of Craig Worster, the officer who resigned amid an internal investigation in Ridgefield and wound up later facing more accusations of misconduct at another job in Maine.

Although Worsters resignation from Ridgefield in 2015 effectively ended the internal investigation into his conduct without any disciplinary action, the investigative report Hearst Connecticut obtained under state Freedom of Information law details a pattern of misconduct and says his behavior was pervasive and that any reasonable person would conclude that Lt. Worster[s] actions form a pattern of hostile and abusive behavior.

According to the report, Worster allegedly would often touch female officers on the shoulder, stand uncomfortably close to them and tell them stories about sex he had with different women.

An unidentified female officer told investigators that Worster massaged her shoulders without asking. He just walked away without saying anything, the report quoted the officer as saying.

One female officer told investigators Worster played a video clip of men and women showering together that contained sexual comments and noises, according to the report. He also allegedly discussed with female officers whether a woman pulled over for a traffic stop had fake breasts, the report said.

While a female suspect blew into a tube during a breath test to determine alcohol level, Woster allegedly remarked that I bet shes good at that or shes good at that, the report said.

Five years later, Worster, then the chief of Millinocket Police in Maine, faced more accusations.

Millinocket Deputy Chief Janet Theriault filed a sexual harassment complaint against Worster. Details of the complaint have not been made public.

The accusations prompted the town to fire Worster in December 2020.

Weeks later, the small Millinocket police department was disbanded and neighboring East Millinocket was given an 18-month contract to take over the towns policing duties.

In February 2021, the Millinocket Personnel Appeals Board overturned Worsters termination. The town appealed the ruling, and the issue remains pending. Worster was not reinstated as chief, according to news reports in Maine.

The town manager who hired Worster, John Davis, was fired after the accusations against Worster surfaced.

Nick Sambides Jr. / Bangor Daily News

Millinocket was not Worsters first policing job in Maine. After leaving Ridgefield, Worster was hired in 2016 by the Wiscasset Police Department, a small town in Southern Maine. He resigned in 2018 following an internal investigation that still has not been made public, according to various news reports.

News reports in Maine show that Worsters case prompted considerable discussion there about the need to strengthen the transparency of police disciplinary records and the overall hiring process.

Attempts to reach Worster for comment were unsuccessful. An attorney for Worster in Maine did not respond to messages.

Ridgefield Police Chief Jeffery Kreitz did not respond to questions about whether Maine officials asked his department for Worsters disciplinary records and other details of his employment.

Millinocket officials did not respond to a request for comment on Worsters employment and termination.

A national problem

A 2020 study published in the Yale Law Journal closely examined police hiring trends in Florida and, in that state alone, found hundreds of working officers who had been fired from previous police jobs.

In any given year over the last three decades, an average of roughly 1,100 full-time law-enforcement officers in Florida walk the streets having been fired in the past, and almost 800 having been fired for misconduct, not counting the many who were fired and reinstated in arbitration, the study said.

But the studys authors said they were likely undercounting the number of wandering officers in Florida because there is no database that tracks police misconduct.

Such a tool could help agencies avoid hiring wandering officers who saunter in from other states, wrote researchers Ben Grunwald, a professor at the Duke University School of Law, and John Rappaport, a University of Chicago Law School professor.

The study, however, did not detail the types of misconduct that led to firing an officer or an officers resignation.

We are not able to identify the specific nature of the misconduct, such as excessive force, embezzlement, substance abuse, and so on, the authors noted.

The study, which also referenced several other examples of wandering officers around the country, added that departments do not always list the actual misconduct that led to a dismissal or pushed an officer to resign.

Still, the study found that wandering officers tend to move to smaller departments which have difficulty recruiting officers, enjoy fewer resources and do not always conduct background checks.

Even when well-intentioned  as a second chance for a hardworking cop  hiring a wandering officer is risky business, the authors wrote.

Wandering officers are also more likely to be fired from their second job, receive complaints for moral character violations and violent or sexual misconduct, the study said.

Such officers are riskier, by our measures, than even officers hired as rookies, noted the study.

Worse yet, the study said, wandering officers may infect other officers upon arrival, causing misconduct to metastasize to the farthest reaches of the law-enforcement community.

Hiring wandering officers can even bring deadly consequences, as evidenced by a highly publicized case in Cleveland.

In November 2014, 12-year-old Tamir Rice was shot and killed in a park by a Cleveland police who mistook a fake gun the boy was holding for a real one.

Authorities later learned that the officer, while working at the Independence, Ohio police department, had been deemed emotionally unstable and unfit for duty, a fact he did not disclose on his application to join the Cleveland police. The Cleveland department did not review his personnel file before hiring him, according to a variety of media reports and the study published in the Yale Law Journal.

Efforts for reform

Amid concern over such serious outcomes, lawmakers in some states have taken steps to strengthen hiring practices and track police misconduct.

For example, last year, Pennsylvania enacted a law requiring police departments to retain the reason why an officer was fired or resigned. Those records are to be stored in a confidential database that other departments in the state can access when hiring new officers. Under the new law, if an agency chooses to hire an officer despite prior discipline, the department must publicly post a report explaining its decision.

Meanwhile, activists are also pushing for national solutions, including the creation of a national database of police misconduct so departments can readily obtain records of officers who were decertified  meaning their license to be a cop was taken away  or resigned during an internal investigation to avoid punishment or were fired for misconduct.

But the effort so far has not produced a comprehensive national or state database of police misconduct.

Unlike many other regulated professions, states often lack the ability to track prior disciplinary action taken against officers, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

The National Decertification Index provides a list of officers who lost the right to work in law enforcement. The database contains records on 30,172 officers, including officers from Connecticut. Connecticut is among 11 states that publicly report decertified officers by posting a list on the POST Councils website.

However, experts say that database is flawed, in part because participation, which is voluntary, is spotty. And the database omits misconduct not serious enough to draw decertification. In many states  Connecticut is not among them  only a felony conviction is sufficient to decertify an officer.

In Connecticut, disqualifying offenses include a felony conviction; resigning or retiring during an internal investigation for malfeasance or serious misconduct -- or being fired for the conduct; lying on application forms; serious use of force violations and behavior that undermines public confidence in law enforcement on the job and off the job.

On the other hand, the National Practitioners Data Bank, which under federal law mandates reporting of misconduct by health care professionals, is far more comprehensive, containing information on malpractice judgements, lost hospital privileges and medical board discipline.

Lynda Garcia, senior director of the policing program at The Leadership Conference, is working on a national database called Accountable Now. The data tool so far includes information from five major cities: Indianapolis, Ind, New Orleans, Baltimore, Austin, and Dallas.

For almost a decade, civil rights advocates have been pushing for a national database on police use of force to bring greater transparency and accountability to our law enforcement system, Garcia said.

Accurate data is critical to revealing the disproportionate impact police violence has on communities of color, Garcia said. To fix a problem, you need to know how extensive it is.
LONDON (AP)  Britains information watchdog seized computer equipment Thursday during raids at two homes as it investigates how footage of a government minister kissing an aide made it onto the front page of a tabloid newspaper.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock quit last month for breaching pandemic social distancing rules by having an affair with Gina Coladangelo while living with his wife. The affair was revealed when The Sun newspaper published images taken by a camera in Hancocks office.
O'FALLON, Mo. (AP)  Missouri's health department on Thursday reported the highest daily count of new COVID-19 cases since the dead of winter, and the association representing the state's hospital is warning that the health care system is potentially on the brink of a crisis.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services cited 2,302 newly confirmed cases of the virus, the largest one-day count since mid-January, as the delta variant continues to spread in a state with one of the nation's lowest vaccination rates. Hospitalizations ticked up statewide by 47 to 1,331, as did the number of patients in intensive care units, rising by 19 to 409.

Nearly half of the ICU patients  196  are hospitalized in southwestern Missouri. Greene County and Springfield leaders are asking the state to fund an alternative care site since hospitals in Springfield are near capacity.

Health officials issued a hotspot advisory Thursday noting a surge in COVID-19 cases in Greene, Jasper, McDonald, Newton and Barry counties, Joplin and surrounding areas.

State health department spokeswoman Lisa Cox said officials in the agency are identifying available resources and options to meet the needs of our southwest communities, including matching resources to the request we received yesterday evening from Springfield.

Katie Towns, interim department director for Greene County and Springfield, said it isnt yet known where the alternative care site would be. Options include dorms, a hotel or some other large space.

Despite the surge in cases, we havent seen a significant increase in vaccinations, Towns said.

The Missouri Hospital Association, in its weekly COVID-19 update, called the situation in southwestern Missouri dire and said signals for the rest of Missouri are foreboding. Statewide, hospitalizations are up 112% from late May lows, though still far below the winter peak of nearly 3,000.

But at least one hospital, Mercy Springfield, was reporting pandemic high numbers of hospitalizations. Erik Frederick, the hospitals chief administrative officer, wrote on Twitter Thursday that there had been 16 deaths so far this week.

Ashley Kimberling Casad, vice president of clinical services at Cox South Hospital in Springfield, said hospitals in the Cox system expect to exceed the winter peak of patients by next week. Among the current patients are 11 people under age 30, something that was rare in the winter.

The hospital association offered an ominous warning.

If the rest of the state follows current trajectories  with delta systematically picking off localized pockets of unvaccinated Missourians  our entire health care system will be very near the brink it flirted with during the winter of 2020-2021," the update stated.

In fact, cases and hospitalizations are rising in the state's big cities, too. Dr. Clay Dunagan of the St. Louis Metropolitan Pandemic Task Force said the vast majority of people hospitalized in the region are unvaccinated.

Dunagan urged a return to wearing masks in public, and pleaded for people to get vaccinated. Otherwise, he said St. Louis could equal the surge experienced in the winter or perhaps exceed it.

In summary, this virus is coming back, and it's stronger than ever before, Dunagan said.

A spokeswoman for Republican Gov. Mike Parson issued a statement echoing that of Cox, the health department spokeswoman, and urging Missourians to get vaccinated. Parson said last week that hospitals werent overwhelmed and that the state was not in a crisis mode.

Dr. Francis Collins, director of the National Institutes of Health, told McClatchy Newspapers in an interview published Thursday in the Kansas City Star that Missouri is the most worrisome place in the U.S. right now.

This is a variant, this delta variant, thats highly contagious. And so as it starts to spread, anybody whos not vaccinated is in a danger zone.  The chances of getting infected in Missouri are getting really high and that means potentially serious illness or even death, Collins said.

___

Hollingsworth reported from Mission, Kansas.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP)  Missouri Gov. Mike Parson suggested Tuesday that some southwest Missouri health officials who are publicly discussing a marked increase in COVID-19 cases are trying to find someone to blame and want to scare people into getting vaccinated.

Health officials should try to encourage people to get vaccinated but should not resort to "trying to force people to take a vaccine or literally just scare them into taking a vaccine because we know that doesnt work, Parson said during a stop in Kansas City.

Springfield health officials have been warning their hospitals are being overrun by new cases fueled by the delta variant. Last week, the Mercy health system announced it would require employees at its more than 40 hospitals  including one in Springfield  to be vaccinated by late September.

"We just need to make sure that people are not scared thinking theyre doing something wrong going to a hospital. And I think the message youre seeing out of southwest Missouri is more people just trying to blame somebody for this virus. The virus itself is to blame, Parson said.

On Monday, Mercy in Springfield was treating 134 COVID-19 patients, while CoxHealth, Springfields other major hospital, had 125. Greene County, where Springfield is located, increased its 7-day rolling average of new daily cases from 79 to 165.

Springfield hospital officials have noted that people from across the region who are diagnosed with COVID-19 come to the city's hospitals for treatment. About 34.3% of Greene County residents had completed vaccinations as of Tuesday, and several surrounding counties had even lower numbers.

This surge in the spread of the virus has placed extreme strain on our health care system, Katie Towns, acting director of the Springfield-Greene County Health Department told the city council on Monday.

Spokeswoman for Cox and Mercy hospitals in Springfield did not immediately respond for request for comment about Parson's remarks.

The surge prompted Springfield officials to cancel the popular Birthplace of Route 66 Festival scheduled for late August, citing the increasing number of cases and hospitalizations, along with the region's low rate of vaccinations, The Kansas City Star reported.

Springfield Mayor Ken McClure told reporters Monday it would be impossible to enforce a new mask mandate or lockdown in Springfield. Instead, local political, public health and church leaders held a news conference to encourage vaccinations, the Springfield News-Leader reported.

Parson noted that 55% of Missourians have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, although that includes only people 18 and older. In total, 45.4% of the overall population has initiated vaccination and 39.8% has completed it.

The governor said counting children in the vaccination figures is what some of them will do to just give you lower numbers to make the situation sound worse than it really is.

___

This story was first published on July 13. It was updated on July 15 to make clear that as of Monday, Mercy Hospital in Springfield was treating 134 cases of COVID-19, not 130. The original story listed both figures.
RENO, Nev. (AP)  Fueled by continued growth in the spread of the delta variant, Nevadas average daily number of new COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and positivity rate all have soared to their highest levels since February.

State health officials said Thursday they're seeing signs of improvement in the effort to get more Nevadans vaccinated. But nearly half of the state's eligible residents haven't been fully vaccinated and at the current rate, it will take until December to reach the goal of 70% statewide.

The 14-day average positivity rate statewide has tripled from 3.4% on June 11 to 10.9% as of Wednesday  the first time its topped 10% since mid-February, officials said.

The rate now is twice as high in Clark County and Las Vegas than the Reno-Sparks area in Washoe County, 12.3% compared to 5.6%.

The 14-day average of new daily cases has grown to 517 and hospitalizations to 705. Both are the highest levels since mid-February when they were 525 and 705, respectively.

The Nevada Hospital Association said in its weekly update that the states general population appears desensitized to the threat of the virus.

Individuals are not following CDC guidelines related to mask wearing for unvaccinated persons or maintaining social distancing in crowded indoor locations, the association said.

On the bright side, 2% of Nevadans received their first COVID-19 shot last week, compared to a national average of 1.5%, said Candice McDaniel, deputy director of the Nevada Department of Health and Human Service.

Nearly 740 Nevadans per 100,000 population got their first dose, compared to the national average of 520, she said Thursday.

Overall, the state has seen a 32% increase in vaccinations since Gov. Steve Sisolak launched Vax Nevada Days on June 17 with $5 million in cash giveaways and other prizes, McDaniel said. About 42% of those came in the 12 to 17 age group.

Meanwhile, Washoe County reported its third death from the delta variant Wednesday, a woman in her 50s with an underlying health condition who had not been vaccinated. Of the 118 delta cases in the county, 11 people have been hospitalized and four were in the intensive care unit. Only one of those has received a COVID-19 vaccine.

The delta variant is currently the dominant strain in Washoe County and the state of Nevada, said Dr. Nancy Diao, division director for Epidemiology and Public Health Preparedness for the Washoe County Health District.

McDaniel said last week the rise in new cases is attributed to a mix the delta variant, increased travel, population density, vaccination rates that are lower than officials would like and extreme heat forcing people indoors and into close quarters.
JACKSONVILLE, N.C. (AP)  A North Carolina man has been arrested in connection with the discovery of a womans body at a motel, police said.

Jacksonville police said Darwin Robinson Jr., 24, of Jacksonville was arrested on Wednesday and charged with murder and robbery, news outlets reported.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP)  They sat inside a dust-covered box that had been stashed away, untouched, for years: black-and-white photographs of Apache students who were among the first sent to a New Mexico boarding school bankrolled by East Coast parishioners and literary fans.

The first showed the girls bundled in blankets with moccasins on their feet. The next, taken just weeks later, was starkly different, the children posing in plaid uniforms, high-laced boots and wide-brimmed straw hats.

Adjunct history professor Larry Larrichio said he stumbled upon the 1885 photos while researching a military outpost and immediately recognized their significance.

The images represented the systematic attempt by the U.S. government, religious organizations and other groups to assimilate Indigenous youth into white society by removing them from their homes and shipping them off to boarding school. The effort spanned more than a century and is now the focus of what will be a massive undertaking by the U.S. government as it seeks to uncover the troubled legacy of the nation's policies related to Native American boarding schools, where reports of physical and sexual abuse were widespread.

When I pulled that photo out, it just brought a tear to my eye. I looked at the faces of these beautiful Apache girls in their Native attire and then those ugly American bonnets, said Larrichio, a research associate with the Latin American and Iberian Institute at the University of New Mexico. "It just knocked me on my butt.

The U.S. Interior Department has started combing through records in hopes of identifying past boarding schools and the names and tribes of students. The project also will try to determine how many children perished while attending those schools and were buried in unmarked graves.

As part of an effort that began years earlier, the disinterred remains of nine Native American children who died more than a century ago while attending a government-run school in Pennsylvania were handed over to relatives during a ceremony Wednesday so they could be returned to Rosebud Sioux tribal lands in South Dakota.

Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, a member of Laguna Pueblo and the first Native American to lead a Cabinet agency, has promised a comprehensive review while acknowledging it would be a painful and difficult process.

Larrichios discovery hints at the immensity of the challenge, as each bit of new information leads down another avenue that needs to be researched.

While some records are kept by the agency and the National Archives, most are scattered across jurisdictions  from the bowels of university archives, like those Larrichio found, to government offices, church archives, museums and personal collections.

That's not to mention whatever records were lost or destroyed over the years.

The National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition has been working to amass information about the schools for almost a decade. With the help of grant funding and the work of independent researchers across the country, the Minnesota-based group has identified nearly 370 schools and estimates hundreds of thousands of Native American children passed through them between 1869 and the 1960s.

Its going to be a monumental task, and the initiative that was launched by the Interior is great, but its a short timeline and well need further investigation, said Christine Diindiisi McCleave, the group's CEO and a citizen of the Turtle Mountain Ojibwe Nation.

The coalition knows firsthand how difficult uncovering the truth will be. The group years ago filed public records requests with the federal government for information about the schools. The government didnt have answers, Diindiisi McCleave said.

Of the schools identified by the group so far, she said records have been found for only 40% of them. The whereabouts of the rest are unknown.

What is known from the research and from family accounts is that there were children who never made it home.

With the Interior Department taking a first formal step to uncover more about the history, Diindiisi McCleave and others are renewing their push for a federal commission to be established in the U.S., much like one created in Canada, where the remains of more than 1,000 children were discovered in recent weeks at residential schools there.

In the United States, the Indian Civilization Act of 1819 and other laws and policies were enacted to establish and support Indian boarding schools across the nation. For over 150 years, Indigenous children were taken from their communities and forced into boarding schools that focused on assimilation.

The discoveries in Canada and the renewed spotlight in the U.S. have stirred strong emotions among tribal communities, including grief, anger, reflection and a deep desire for healing.

Haaland, Diindiisi McCleave and New Mexico Indian Affairs Secretary Lynn Trujillo have all recounted stories about their grandparents being sent away to boarding schools. They talk about the intergenerational trauma that was triggered by the experience and the effects that have manifested themselves on younger generations seeking to maintain their language and cultural practices, which were banned in boarding schools.

For some families, the boarding school experience was a forbidden topic, never to be talked about.

For others, the recent attention has spurred fresh conversations. Trujillo talked about her grandmother being taken when she was 6 and telling stories about how she was always so hungry and cold.

Trujillo said while her grandmother made it home, unlike other children, that experience shaped who she was.

Our communities and Indigenous people have known about these atrocities for a very long time, but being able to bring them to light and talk about them  no matter how painful  is part of that process toward healing, said Trujillo, a member of Sandia Pueblo who has been focused on bringing together Indigenous youth to highlight the need for more mental health resources and educational opportunities.

For Diindiisi McCleave, moving forward with healing will require more research, data and understanding.

The biggest part of the work starts with the truth, and that includes not only truth from the federal government in this case and the churches that ran the schools, but hearing the truth from the perspective of the people who experienced it, listening to the testimony of survivors and descendants and understanding the full scope and impact of these experiences," she said.

Experts say the list of known boarding schools  and burial sites  will only expand as more grassroots research sheds light on schools that have otherwise been lost to history.

Already some researchers have spent years piecing together records, old newspaper reports and oral histories to find and identify lost children. Others have searched properties using ground-penetrating radar. Some state agencies that focus on Indigenous affairs are considering launching investigations into known schools.

The Interior Department said it's working on ways to create a safe space, such as a hotline or special website where people can share information about the schools and seek resources.

In New Mexico, the Ramona Industrial School for Indian Girls opened in the mid-1880s and housed mostly Apache students, many of whom had parents who were being held prisoner by the U.S. Army at Fort Union, about 100 miles (160 kilometers) away.

Not far from Santa Fe's historic plaza, the school was founded by Horatio Ladd, a congregational minister who contracted with the military to send Indigenous students there. The endeavor was supported by parishioners and admirers of author and activist Helen Hunt Jackson through fundraising newsletters and postcards.

Larrichio was working on a project for the National Park Service years ago when he happened upon brochures and other documents related to the school. It was a monthslong effort that involved combing through hundreds of archival collections at the Center for Southwest Research at the University of New Mexico.

With only brief references in books on other subjects, the school is an example of the difficult work facing the Interior Department as it embarks on its investigation. While Larrichio is sharing the materials he uncovered with the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition, he said it's the tip of the iceberg, and much more work needs to be done.

A lot of this information is probably buried  literally buried with respect to this collection I uncovered, he said. How many other stories are buried, and how much was purposefully destroyed? I think it's going to be very hard to really get a comprehensive understanding of the impact of this.
Niagara Falls, NY (14301)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High near 85F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

A clear sky. Low around 65F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.
Niagara Falls, NY (14301)

Today

Mostly sunny. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High near 85F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Clear skies. Low near 65F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.
Eze Chukwuemeka Eze has tackled Governor Nyesom Wike for accusing President Muhammadu Buhari of appointing a Vice Chancellor for the Unive...

Eze Chukwuemeka Eze has tackled Governor Nyesom Wike for accusing President Muhammadu Buhari of appointing a Vice Chancellor for the University of Port Harcourt, to help the All Progressives Congress, APC, rig election in 2023.

Prof. Georgewill Owunari was recently appointed by the Ministry of Education as the new Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt.

Governor Wike had accused the Buhari-led Federal Government of appointing Vice-Chancellors that will assist the APC in rigging the 2023 general elections in Rivers State.

The Governor of Rivers State had issued a threat to any official of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC who would make themselves available as willing tools in the hands of political desperados to rig elections during an even in Port Harcourt.





He had said, Let me warn, not one person will dare to rig Election in Rivers state, not one person will dare it, anybody who does that, you know its a coup and you know the punishment for that..

Wike went further to state that only compromised academics, willing to submit names of politically exposed lecturers as returning officers to rig elections for the ruling party, are being appointed as Vice Chancellors of Federal universities while vowing that those contemplating to rig elections in the State would be treated as coup plotters.

Eze, in his reaction, said the Governors comment was a tragic irony, as his catholic records of election thievery remain public and apparent to all.

He said Wikes statement had stemmed from the brooding embitterment occasioned by the failure of his preferred candidate for the office of the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt.

Eze accused Wike of playing a satanic role during the 2019 elections by weighing big influence being Minister of Education for State which position he may have allegedly used to influence the appointment of Vice-Chancellors who played no mean roles in his becoming Governor of Rivers State.

Eze said the widely published report of the police recovering N114 million from the N360 million used by the Rivers Governor, to bribe INEC officials to announce cooked results in his favour, adds to his credence.

Eze said the police report should have compelled Wike and those in his government to resign to avoid further engagements in a fanfare of squandermania and allowing unfettered assessment into the summarily embarrassing, grossly messy and high-profile indictment against the Governor.
Joe Igbokwe, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has pointed out what will happen to Nigeria if Bola Tinubu, National Leade...

Joe Igbokwe, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has pointed out what will happen to Nigeria if Bola Tinubu, National Leader of the party becomes president of Nigeria.

Igbokwe said things would be okay if Tinubu becomes Nigerias president.

The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Drainage and Water Resources, stated this in an interview with BBC Pidgin.

Igbokwe described the former Lagos State governor as a builder who laid the foundation for the growth of the state.

Asked how Nigeria will turn out with Tinubu as president, Igbokwe said: If he becomes the president of this country, things will be okay. Things will be fine. Hes a builder. He laid the foundation for the growth of Lagos. And Lagos is now the fifth-largest economy in Africa. So he can deliver.

Hes a chartered accountant. He worked with Mobil. He ruled Lagos. He has been a senator. He has a lot to bring to the table. You know, the experience cannot be learned from textbooks alone. So, he has a lot to bring to the table. But its Nigerians that will decide, he said.

Despite the clamour, Tinubu has remained silent on the 2023 presidential election.

But, it is widely believed that the APC National Leader is nursing presidential ambition.

Meanwhile, the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church leader, Primate Ayodele, had over the weekend warned Tinubu against vying for the presidency.

Primate Ayodele had warned that Tinubus tenure would be a disaster if he becomes president.
Babatunde Fashola, minister of works and housing, says the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration has awarded 800 road contracts si...

Babatunde Fashola, minister of works and housing, says the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration has awarded 800 road contracts since it came on board six years ago.

Fashola spoke on Thursday at the weekly ministerial press briefing organised by the presidential communication team at the presidential villa, Abuja.

He said the work done consists of highways bridges, covering a distance of over 13, 000 kilometers.

The number of contracts awarded is 800, not 800 projects. Sometimes within a road you might have multiple contracts. For instance Kano to Maiduguri there are five different contracts that are unique, he said.





If you look at the Lagos Ibadan, there are two contracts there, for Enugu- Port Harcourt there are five contracts there. So each one has a designated supervising project officer, so in that sense it is right to say we have 800 plus contracts.

Fashola also refuted claims that Nigeria has a housing deficit of 17m units, noting that a country with many empty houses cannot be classified as such.

According to him, the pressure on housing in the country was caused by rural-urban migration, which he said created a supply problem.

He emphasised that even though people leave their houses in the rural areas to squat in the cities, it does not amount to housing deficit in the country.

Its illogical to say we have housing deficit when you have empty houses. No such deficit exist anywhere in the world, Fashola added.

We are not in a housing crisis. Housing shortages that exist are in urban centers not in rural areas. The problem is as a result of urbanisation where people move from rural to urban centers.

Fashola said he had consulted the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), international organisations such as the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB), and confirmed that the Nigerian housing deficit reports are not correct.

He advised citizens to disregard such reports.

The minister said the actual housing deficit in Nigeria cannot be ascertained until another census is conducted in the country.

Explaining the difficulty in completing the East/West road, Fashola explained that though about 70 percent of the road was completed, it was under the purview of the Niger Delta ministry.

He also attributed the bad state of the Itu/Odukpani/Calabar road to the difficult terrain, stressing that cost of building roads in the area was high.

Also speaking on infrastructural development, he said the present administration has taken bold steps to execute projects that seemed impossible for previous governments, citing the Second Niger Bridge, Lagos-Oworonshoki road, Third Mainland Bridge repairs, Kano-Abuja road among others.

He said the ministry most times suffers a budget deficit as the money due to the ministry to meet its contractual obligations is not fully released.

Fashola added that budget deficit remained a challenge despite the current administrations achievement in infrastructure development.

The budget for roads in Nigeria in 2015 that we inherited was N18 billion for all Nigerian roads. 2015 was also the year that I left office as Governor of Lagos so the budget for Lagos State roads for that year was about N70 billion and it was not enough so I dont see how 18 would have been enough for the whole of Nigeria.

But the first roads budget for the Buhari administration was N260 billion the next, N240 billion, next N356 billion then we have come down to N233, N237 and so on and so forth. We are doing a lot more with less resources.

He said six new federal secretariats arising from the creation of new states where assets were separated are currently being constructed.

The ones in Anambra and Zamfara are the likely to finish this year. The one in Nasarawa and Bayelsa will run into probably next year while Ekiti is in the race to finish next year.
The first batch of six A-29 Super Tucano aircraft have departed the United States of America en route Nigeria, the Nigerian Air Force has s...





The first batch of six A-29 Super Tucano aircraft have departed the United States of America en route Nigeria, the Nigerian Air Force has said.

NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Edward Gabkwet, in a statement on Thursday, said the fighter jets departed from the US on Wednesday and are expected in Nigeria anytime soon.

The statement was titled, First Batch Of A-29 Super Tucano Aircraft Depart The United States Of America For Nigeria.

It partly read, The six aircraft will be leapfrogged through 5 countries including Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Spain and Algeria before arriving their final destination in Nigeria towards the end of July 2021.

An official induction ceremony of the aircraft into the inventory of the Nigerian Air Force is already being planned at a later date in August 2021 to be announced in due course. The Office of the Director of Public Relations and Information remains open to any inquiry regarding the arrival and induction of the aircraft.

The Federal Government in February 2018 placed an order for 12 Super Tucano aircraft at a cost of $496million. Several delivery dates have been announced for the aircraft before Thursdays announcement.

The fighter jets are expected to boost the operations of the military in its anti-terrorism war against Boko Haram and splinter group, the Islamic State in West Africa Province, in Nigerias North-East.
Joe Igbokwe, a stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC) says the Federal Government of Nigeria has enormous evidence to convict Bia...

Joe Igbokwe, a stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC) says the Federal Government of Nigeria has enormous evidence to convict Biafra agitator, Nnamdi Kanu.

The trial of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader will resume at the Federal High Court on July 26.

Kanu, who faces treason charges, was arrested in an international operation on June 27.

The separatist was on the run for years after he jumped bail.

Igbokwe, the Special Adviser on Drainage and Water Resources to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said the IPOB leader perpetrated several crimes.

In an interview with BBC News Pidgin, he recalled how Kanu ordered a hit on him and his family.

He tok on Radio Biafra, say if dem see me, im boys, make dem behead me and kill all my children, destroy my home.

Dem (FG) get big evidence..wetin im tok and wetin hapun. You tink say dem go blame these boys for South-East for di destruction, killing of policemen, and burning of police formations?

Na dia leader, dem go bring dis tins before am. Dem go bring Gulak case before am, so many tins. E go see imsef dey tok, so na evidence. You sell yourself out, dat na how e go-go.

Igbokwe noted that the available proofs are weighty and unbelievable. He said Kanu incited murder, arson and promoted Jubril from Sudan, a reference to President Muhammadu Buhari.

Asked if IPOB can continue to function with the secessionist in government custody, the APC chieftain said the proscribed group has been overtaken by events.

Igbokwe stressed that war is no longer an option in the 21st and reiterated he is proudly Nigerian and will die as one.
Like his late father, the Emir of Kano, Alh. Aminu Ado Bayero has boldly told visiting President Muhammadu Buhari, that Nigerians are in s...

Like his late father, the Emir of Kano, Alh. Aminu Ado Bayero has boldly told visiting President Muhammadu Buhari, that Nigerians are in serious suffering conditions.

The Emir said, the present economic situation in the country is inflicting untold hardship on Nigerians coupled with the insecurity.

Emir Bayero who raised the concern while receiving president Muhammad Buhari who paid a visit to the palace insisted that, Nigerians are suffering, and something urgently needs to be done.

The Emir urged the Federal Government to find a lasting solution to ease the suffering of the common man, more specifically with the high cost of essential commodities that are today clearly above the reach of the common man.

Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero also urged the federal government to intensify efforts to restore peace in the country, because according to him, insecurity in the nation is becoming alarming by the day.

While assuring president Muhammad Buhari of the emirates continued prayers for his administration, the royal father applauded the president for finding Kano worthy of citing federal governments critical infrastructural projects, which he said will turn around the State to an economic hub.

Bayero said Kano has enjoyed tremendous transformation and developmental growth under the administration of President Muhammad Buhari.

President Muhammad Buhari in turns congratulated the monarch on his recent coronation as the 15th Fulani emir of Kano.

Buhari who expressed satisfaction over the warm reception received in Kano commended the developmental stride of governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
The senate has approved $8.3 billion and 490 million loans requested by President Muhammadu Buhari. The request of Buhari was appro...

The senate has approved $8.3 billion and 490 million loans requested by President Muhammadu Buhari.

The request of Buhari was approved after Clifford Ordia, chairman of the committee on local and foreign debts, presented a report during the plenary session on Thursday.

The loans are provided for under the 2018-2020 external borrowing plan of the federal government.

The president made this request in May alongside the $6 billion loan that has been approved by the senate.

The loan will be drawn from a number of financial institutions including the World Bank, the African Development Bank (AfDB), French Development Agency (AFD), Islamic Development Bank; China EXIMBank, China Development Bank and European Investment Bank among others.

Buhari had said the projects that would be financed with these loans are located in the six geo-political zones of the country.

The listed projects form part of the 2018-2020 External Borrowing Plan covered both the Federal and States Governments Projects and are geared towards the realization of the Nigerian Economic Sustainability Plan that cut across key sectors such as Infrastructure, Health, Agriculture and Food Security, Energy, Education and Human Capital Development and COVID 19 Response efforts, the president said in a letter.





A summary of some key projects in each of the six geo-political zones and a summary on the expected impacts on the socio economic development of each of the six geo-political zones.

Given the importance attached, to the timely delivery of the projects listed in the proposed Borrowing Plan and the benefits both the Federal and States Governments stand to gain from the implementation of same, I hereby wish to request for the kind consideration and concurrent approval of the Senate for the 2018-2020 Federal Government External Borrowing (Rolling) Plan to enable the projects become effective.
Watertown, NY (13601)

Today

Scattered clouds with the possibility of an isolated thunderstorm developing this afternoon. High 81F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

A few clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 66F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.
Tulane professor and novelist Zachary Lazar was visiting the Louisiana State Penitentiary with photographer Deborah Luster in 2013, researching an article about a passion play performed by the inmates, The Life of Christ, when he met Quntos KunQuest, a novelist-in-waiting. KunQuest is now 25 years into a sentence of life without parole after a 1996 carjacking that occurred when Quntos (then Kuntos Wilson) was 19.

KunQuest remembers that meeting well. Deb and Zach have crime in common (both of them have parents who were murder victims) and they came for some type of spiritual cleansing, trying to understand the criminal mind, he said. It led to a beautiful friendship. We are two of the same people, and you do good to connect with your tribe."

KunQuest was interviewed recently by phone from Angola, with prison officials listening on the line.

Zach had just done a review of Keith Richards book, and Id just read Jimi Hendrixs book, so we had a lot of conversation. We talked about The Art of War, Prince, the Guggenheim Museum in New York, books about Frank Lloyd Wright. We had a lot of interests in common, so we were able to form a friendship.

Thats how This Life got its big break. Zach was writing an article and I got a bunch of stuff together because I know Zach aint never been to prison, and I said, You can read it and take what you want out of it. He read it and everything else is history  he took it and said it should be published.

Lazar, who has taught creative writing in prisons over the years, was blown away by the manuscript when he got it in 2015, and he took it on as a personal cause.

KunQuest had taken the time to transcribe the 343-page manuscript by hand, printing it, even switching to cursive to denote italics and decorating the pages. Its like an art book, Lazar said. Originally I hoped we could publish it as a facsimile version. But that proved impractical. The book eventually found a home with editor Doug Seibold at Agate Books.

Id put it up against any novel, Lazar said, in terms of language, characterization, structure. I couldnt believe what a beautiful piece it was. There are scenes in the fields that remind me of Tolstoy And I dont think he really thought of publishing his book. I dont think he was ambitious in that way.

This Life tells the story of the relationship between two incarcerated men, Lil Chris, whom readers meet on his first day as an A.U., or Admitting Unit, and Rise, Oschuwon R. Hamilton, a leader in the prison community who is hoping for his release after serving many years.

It is a compelling and detailed account of what daily life is like under incarceration, a parable of the search for meaning in dehumanizing conditions, and the growth of a complicated sense of mutual respect. Like KunQuest, both characters are rappers who understand the power of language. What do these men mean to their creator?

Lil Chris is my brother, said KunQuest, who grew up in Shreveport. I lost my brother in 98, shortly after I came to Angola, one of those life-altering experiences. The crazy thing about it is that for a lot of people, death and grief is destructive. But for me it brought me to the books, from romance to world history and from there every possible subject I could get my hands on.

"When it came time to write, I didnt want to write a story about myself. Subconsciously or unconsciously, Chris was the first character and I just stayed with it. The book was a chance for me to spend some time with him and imagine what it would have been like to see him grow. My brother is Lil Chris, and Rise is the man I imagine myself being, the man I need to become.

KunQuest is clear about how his novel differs from other books. None of the characters in my book are innocent, he pointed out. When we deal with whats going on in mass incarceration and the prison industrial complex and reforms that need to be made, we tend to go into how wrong it is because innocent people are wronged.

"What about people who are statutorily guilty, but morally innocent in the sense that you come to prison and youre guilty of the crime, but over time you become a different person? I dont know anyone whos the same person they were when they were 19.

How does an incarcerated person establish a writing life? KunQuest suggests its a matter of focus.

The thing about as you grow older is that you have less friends and more personal time," he said. "You begin to exist a lot more in your head than you do socially.

"Writing a book is not as hard as you would imagine. Im the kind of person who walks to read. I can walk all the way across the dormitory and have a book in my hand and not run into anybody. I always have paper folded up and a pen in my pocket. Thats also how I deal with stress and anxiety.

KunQuest and Lazar both have high hopes for This Life. I needed to know that I was alive and relevant, KunQuest said. I want to translate the prison reality to people who will probably never see a prison from the inside. And I hope to add a relevant voice to the conversation about prison reform, the conversation about police brutality or Black Lives Matter.

"The book is my way of saying that even inside a prison yard, I understand my responsibility as an American, and I want to do my part to change the landscape.

Susan Larson hosts The Reading Life on WWNO.
In the ongoing shakeup of the local restaurant scene, the areas oldest Korean restaurant has closed and a new restaurant focused on the flavors of northern China will soon take its place.

Korea House had been a fixture in Fat City for 35 years, just around the corner from Dragos Seafood Restaurant, with a highly traditional menu. It closed permanently earlier this year.

Now, the new restaurant YuYan Kitchen is preparing to open in the weeks ahead, with a menu of noodle dishes, soups and dumplings.

Chef and co-owner Yan Yu explained that the restaurant name is based on her name, and the practice in China of addressing people by their family name first, then their given name.

She is a native of Tianjin, a city near Beijing, and she is excited to introduce more people to the Mandarin flavors of her family heritage.

There are so many different kinds of Chinese cuisine, she said. Cantonese is very common here. But where Im from, we speak a different language, and we eat a different food.

+19 From oysters to steak, how this Lakeview restaurant row came back from catastrophe For months, it seemed that Joseph Faroldi couldnt go anywhere without people asking when his restaurant, Lakeview Burgers & Seafood, woul

The opening menu for YuYan Kitchen is short, with dishes like spicy beef noodles, soy sauce pork ribs and meatball soup. Another specialty are dragon eye meatballs, made by forming meatballs around boiled eggs; the meatballs are sliced to reveal the eye-like yolk within. Dumplings, steamed buns, fried rice and scallion pancakes are also on the opening menu.

Well focus on a few dishes first to give people a taste and then expand the menu, Yu said.

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Eventually, that could include hot pots to cook at the table, using the grills already built into the tables here for the cook-your-own barbecue that Korea House once served.

+3 Shop and sip? Metairie's Lakeside mall will soon have its own wine bar In addition to a shopping list, some people visiting Lakeside Shopping Center may soon be perusing a wine list. A local restaurant group is de

Korea House was founded in 1986 by In Sook Kang Kim, a native of Seoul. She died in 2017 at age 86, and her daughter Kim Ragusa had run the restaurant for many years. The family could not be reached for comment, but Yu said she was told the previous owners decided to retire in 2020.

This is the first restaurant for Yu and her husband Javier Serrano, who grew up in Mid-City and traces his family roots to Honduras. The two met in China while Serrano was on an assignment for the energy company where he works. Now that their two boys have grown a little older, the couple decided to start a business.

We think its actually a good time now, Serrano said. People are coming back out from the pandemic, new places are opening.

YuYan Kitchen

3547 18th St., Metairie

Projected opening: August 2021

+9 Bud's Broiler returns to New Orleans; long-planned Canal Boulevard location now open A Buds Broiler burger is basic and incredibly specific all at once. Its style is the old school antithesis of overly fancy gourmet burgers, a
The second gentleman of the United States, Douglas Emhoff, visited New Orleans Wednesday morning, touring the Belle Chasse YMCA campus and a mobile vaccination clinic and food distribution site at Broadmoor Community Church.

The visit was set to highlight community organizations and their recovery from the pandemic as part of President Joe Bidens efforts to pass his post-pandemic recovery agenda, according to a White House press release.

Emhoff was joined at his first stop at the Belle Chasse YMCA by the newly elected Congressman Troy Carter as he toured the campus and joined in on games with kids who are participating in the YMCAs summer camps.

Can't see the video above? Click here.

Stopping next at Broadmoor Community Church, Emhoff toured a mobile vaccination clinic and a food distribution site that provides free meals to children and teens during summer months while school is not in session.

Can't see the video above? Click here.
A plan to build a large commercial carwash on West Causeway Approach has had some nearby Mandeville residents and businesses in a lather for weeks, and on Tuesday, the city's Zoning Commission agreed that it doesn't belong there.

Commissioners voted unanimously to deny a special-use permit to build the carwash on a vacant parcel just across West Causeway Approach from the entrance to Mandeville High School, saying that it was not compatible with the area.

Opponents, including seven area homeowner groups, described the area as an office park and residential corridor that would suffer from having a noisy carwash in the mix.

Signs in area proclaim "Save Our Approach" and "Deny the carwash," and Mayor Clay Madden and Mandeville City Council members Rebecca Bush and Jason Zuckerman said that they had received more emails and phone calls on the issue than any other during the year they've been in office.

The opposition was out in force at Tuesday's meeting, but Chris Donner, who had applied for the permit, did not attend the meeting. Planning Director Cara Bartholomew said that the applicant had not responded to requests by the commission for additional information about the site plan and had only provided a brochure on the vacuums that would be used in response to questions about noise.

Donner declined comment on Wednesday.

But audience members had plenty to say about noise, including some who live or had lived near another commercial carwash, Blue Harbor Pointe, on U.S. 190.

Deanna Sparkman said that her family had to sell their home in the Meadowbrook subdivision at a financial loss because the noise created by that carwash, including vacuums and sirens, was incessant and intolerable.

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"I hope to persuade you not to cause problems for my friends in Fontainebleau," she said, referring to one of the nearby subdivisions that was opposing the plan.

John Graham, who currently lives near Blue Harbor, said in written comments that his family endures noise throughout the day, beginning at 7 a.m. and that when the blowers are on they have to shout to have a conversation.

"We can hear the workers say, 'Neutral, no brakes!' all the time as cars pass through," he said.

Bush, who represents the area, said that the city's regulations allow for a denial of a special use permit based on health, welfare, safety and compatibility. "You have what you need to deny the request, and I ask that you do so," she told the commission.

Commissioner Brian Rhinehart agreed, saying that under Mandeville's comprehensive land use regulation ordinance, a special use permit must provide adequate protection for people and their property "from potential negative impacts, for instance, noise."

Everything around the site is an office park, residential neighborhood or school, he said. "Would this change the character of West Causeway Approach? I suggest it would," he said.

His motion to deny the permit was adopted unanimously.
Douglas Emhoff has a fancy title by virtue of being married to the first female vice president, Kamala Harris.

He is the countrys first Second Gentleman.

But the fidgety 4- and 5-year olds who were awaiting his visit Wednesday at the YMCA in Belle Chasse to eat lunch  what should they call him?

My name is Doug, Emhoff, 56, announced as he approached the children sitting around a table.

Emhoff made a bit of history for New Orleans by making the first visit by a male vice presidential spouse.

Less than a year ago, Emhoff relinquished his job as a Los Angeles corporate attorney to be part of the Biden-Harris campaign, and now he works nearly full-time as the vice presidents spouse.

Emhoff showed hes game for his new role during visits to the YMCA in Belle Chasse and the Broadmoor Community Church in New Orleans, as he played with the children at the YMCA in Belle Chasse and handed out food baskets at the Broadmoor Community Church that had been provided through a partnership involving the Broadmoor Improvement Association, the United States Department of Agriculture and the Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana.

Emhoff said Louisiana was the 23rd state he has visited since assuming his new role.

Emhoff began at the YMCA by handing out lunch trays to the children, who were attending a summer camp that includes a free meal. He sat down and peeled a banana for a boy who didnt know how to do so.

Minutes later, in an adjoining room, Emhoff took a spell tossing a plastic ball to free-swinging kids who hit line drive after line drive.

They lit me up, he said with a laugh later. I need to work on my pitching.

To be sure, the topics for Emhoff on Wednesday were serious. Both stops aimed to publicize the need to make sure everyone gets enough to eat during tough economic times caused by the COVID pandemic. The church stop also included a visit to a mobile Ochsner Health unit that highlighted the need to improve Louisianas dismal vaccination rates.

Coronavirus cases are rising again as the Delta variant spreads, with Louisiana among the five states with the biggest jump over the past two weeks. Overall, Louisiana has the second-lowest vaccination rate in the country.

Bottom line, cases and deaths and sickness are up where vaccinations are low, Emhoff told reporters at the church. Where vaccinations are high, youre seeing no deaths, low cases because these vaccinations work. Theyre safe, theyre free, theyre effective. Theyre very available.

People willing to get vaccinated at Ochsners mobile unit were scarce, though.

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A church worker, Gustavo Posadas, sat under an Ochsner tent and admitted to Emhoff that he has been too nervous to receive the vaccine.

A nurse prepared to give him the injection.

Youre going to tell a bunch of people afterward, everyone you know, Emhoff told Posadas, a 44-year-old immigrant from Mexico. This is real. The only thing that will prevent you from dying is getting this.

As the nurse prepared to put the needle in his arm, Emhoff tried to ease Posadas anxiety by distracting him.

Look at me! Emhoff said. Look at me!

Posadas received the injection without incident.

Its over, Emhoff said, and onlookers applauded.

Joel Goldstein, a retired professor at Saint Louis University School of Law and an expert on the vice presidency, said Emhoff is breaking the mold for more than just his gender.

Goldstein noted that previous vice presidential spouses going back to Joan Mondale -- her husband Walter became the first substantive vice president thanks to President Jimmy Carter  have focused on pet issues, such as Tipper Gore on mental issues and Jill Biden on community college education.

Whats somewhat distinctive about Emhoff is hes participating in a public role in one of the priorities of the Biden administration, encouraging people to get vaccinated, Goldstein said.

Goldstein pointed out a political benefit from Emhoffs high profile, noting that the Second Gentleman has also recently visited Tennessee and Alabama.

Many of the trips are to red states, Goldstein said. Its consistent with the message that the president has articulated that he wont just be president of the blue states. Hes the president of everyone.

Asked about his historic role, Emhoff acknowledged Jason Cantrell, New Orleans' First Gentleman standing alongside of him, and said, Strong men need to support strong women.We need more women in leadership and politics. And we need more women in leadership in business, too. Bottom line, this country will be much better off because of it.

Cantrell, married to Mayor LaToya Cantrell, was asked several minutes later about his unique role as the First Gentleman of New Orleans.

An aide suggested a canned response before Cantrell jumped in and said, Its fun to be the husband!
Weeks after city officials, under pressure from a federal judge, filed a zoning change application for a controversial jail expansion, the New Orleans City Council unanimously passed its second symbolic resolution in 10 months against the proposal.

The resolution takes aim at longstanding plans for a $51 million, 89-bed facility meant to house inmates with mental and medical health problems, which critics say would be a costly waste of funds better spent on providing services before people run afoul of the law.

Yet while New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell, the council and activists have made their opposition abundantly clear, the fate of the facility now rests with a federal appeals court, which is weighing the mayors request to halt construction.

The building is an outgrowth of Orleans Parish Sheriff Marlin Gusmans 2013 reform agreement with the federal government and inmate advocates. The agreement, known as a consent decree, involves a promise to provide adequate mental and medical health care. Monitors appointed by U.S. District Judge Lance Africk, who oversees the consent decree, say only a new building will fulfill the promise.

But since last June, Cantrell has been fighting in court to hit pause on the building, which under state law the city would be required to build. Pointing to the building's estimated $10 million annual operating cost, and the jail's declining inmate population, she says the money would be better spent elsewhere. In lieu of a new structure, she would like to renovate parts of the existing main jail building, which would cut down on space available for general population inmates.

+4 A new sheriff in town? Susan Hutson, longtime NOPD monitor, to run against Marlin Gusman After more than a decade as the New Orleans Police Departments independent monitor, Susan Hutson wants to make the switch from watchdog to to

Nevertheless, Africk says the city must abide by an agreement made by former Mayor Mitch Landrieu to build the facility. Cantrell has an appeal pending at the U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeal.

In its latest court update, the city said that the Grace Hebert Curtis Architects firm is still in the process of designing the facility. If all goes according to the city's latest timeline to Africk, the city would begin accepting bids in late November and Gusman would get the keys in August 2023.

Despite Cantrells opposition to the facility, the city took an incremental step forward with a June 22 application to the City Planning Commission for a conditional use permit at the buildings planned property, 2900 Perdido Street in Mid-City.

A city spokesperson said the application was filed "pursuant to court orders."

The City Council would still need to approve the conditional use permit. Denying the permit could put the city at risk of falling into contempt of court  but council members signaled Thursday that they are loathe approve a jail expansion.

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The Thursday resolution, sponsored by Council member Kristin Gisleson Palmer and Jay Banks, states that the council "continues to strongly support a retrofit of the current jail," and calls on the City Attorney to enter into mediation with the lawyers who represent inmates in the litigation before Africk, in an attempt to broker an agreement to retrofit the main jail or a temporary, post-Hurricane Katrina facility that currently houses inmates with severe mental health problems.

Support of this resolution makes it very clear where I have been in this discussion from the beginning, Banks said. Mental illness is not criminal, period. Having someone incarcerated for a disease is not a smart thing to do.

Banks and Palmer also proposed a motion that would have directed the City Planning Commission to consider retrofitting the main jail building, or other existing resources, in addition to the proposal for a new building. However, that motion was deferred.

Numerous speakers allied with the Orleans Parish Prison Reform Coalition spoke in support of the resolution from Banks and Palmer and against a new building. But they also acknowledged that the issue wouldnt be resolved with another resolution alone, and that the dispute over the new building will linger into the Oct. 9 election.

It's an election year, and the people are going to take the lead, said David Brazil, a pastor and organizer with the group. We're going to continue coming out, no matter what, to make sure our communities have what they need.

Palmer and Banks are both facing tough, contested elections this October. Meanwhile, Gusman, who supports the facility, is facing three challengers including Susan Hutson, the citys former independent police monitor, who spoke in favor of the City Council resolution.

Gusman defended the project in a statement, in which he noted that most of the construction cost would come from Federal Emergency Management Agency funds.

It is disappointing to see self-proclaimed criminal justice reform groups advocate against improving conditions for detainees in crisis, as required by law," Gusman said. "This isn't a game. This is a question of whether we, as a community, want a safe, humane place for those in crisis who pose a risk to themselves and those around them."

City Council President Helena Moreno said the resolution was similar to one sponsored by now-District Attorney Jason Williams last September. She expressed hope that Africk will listen.

I would just ask the court to give us another shot, give us a shot to look at alternatives, to bring all parties together before the court and agree on a new alternative, one that will meet the needs of the mental health population, but also take into account the very different circumstances, she said.
The first day of qualifying for New Orleans' city elections brought out every incumbent on the ballot, three powerful politicians racing for an at-large City Council seat and a parade of hopefuls for seats from mayor on down.

Even considering that it's something of a tradition for elected officials and their high-profile opponents to race to file their papers to qualify as soon as the polls open, the crowd of candidates, family members and supporters that packed the halls of Criminal District Court was unusually large as the election formally kicked off. As they waited for the 8 a.m. opening of the clerk's office, a handful of candidates gathered in a prayer circle, consultants swapped gossip and campaign media teams snapped pictures of the scene.

All told, 50 candidates registered to run Wednesday  most of them in the couple hours after qualifying began  with two days still to go for hopefuls to throw their hats into the ring for the Oct. 9 election. A runoff, for the races that need it, will be held Nov. 13.

More than a dozen races are up for election this year. Mayor LaToya Cantrell is running for re-election, as are four members of the City Council. Three more council seats will have no incumbent, including an at-large position that's drawn two sitting members and two more positions that have drawn a flurry of candidates.

Beyond City Hall, the election will also feature races for sheriff, assessor, clerks of court, coroner and a competition to replace Gary Carter Jr., a state representative from the west bank who won election to the state Senate earlier this year.

Cantrell was among the first people to qualify while six challengers to her re-election bid made their campaigns official on Wednesday. The Democrat reaffirmed her commitment to improving violent crime rates in New Orleans while pointing to her current work with law enforcement.

I believe that NOPD, which is under my authority, is doing everything necessary, Cantrell said. We are on the right path, we are models, not only in the state, but in the country, as it relates to constitutional policing practices. We are going to continue to meet people where they are, listening not only to the community, but ensuring that public safety is not something we let up on. It is a priority, it has always been [a priority].

+4 Poll puts Mayor LaToya Cantrell at 62% approval as New Orleans residents pick crime as top issue New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell is heading into her fall re-election campaign with a 62% approval rating, according to a recent poll that me

One of her Mayoral opponents, Leilani Heno, who has no party affiliation, said she is challenging Cantrell because she feels the people need a voice.

Democrats Belden "Noonie Man" Batiste and Luke Fontana, Independents Douglas Bently I, Matthew Hill, Nathaniel "Nate" Jones, and Republican Vina Nguyen also filed to run against Cantrell on Wednesday.

While rumors continue to swirl of a more established challenger to Cantrell, no such opponent emerged Wednesday. Most expect that will mean the most hotly contested race will be to replace Jason Williams, who left one of the council's two at-large seats to become District Attorney in January. Current City Councilmembers Kristin Gisleson Palmer and Jared Brossett are vying for the seat, as is former state senator JP Morrell. They are all Democrats.

Morrell had strong criticism for the councilmembers following his qualification. He said New Orleanians feel the council is more concerned with the investors and tourists who visit rather than people that live here."

"I'm running today to be a change agent, to make this city work for the people of the city of New Orleans. People in this city, for too long, have felt like the city does things to them rather than for them, Morrell said.

Palmer later shot back, saying the council has done a tremendous amount over the last four years while dealing with COVID, the government cyber-attack, the Hard Rock Hotel collapse and hurricanes.

My question is where has he been? He only came out through all these disasters to qualify, she said. Im really curious how hes actually been leading throughout all these crises New Orleans has been facing.

Brossett replied to Morrell by saying Im going to let my work speak for me, and cited fighting for fair wages, early childhood programs and improved infrastructure as highlights of his two council terms.

Bart Everson of the Green Party also filed to run for the at-large race, saying he plans to focus on bringing attention to climate change.

+6 Ahead of New Orleans fall elections, see who has the biggest campaign war chest New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell has built a formidable war chest in her campaign for a second term even as she lacks a high-profile challeng

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Stiff competition is expected in District E, which covers New Orleans East and the Lower 9th Ward, as Councilmember Cyndi Nyguen faces off against former councilmember Oliver Thomas, who spent time in federal prison on a bribery charge. John Bagneris and Vanessa "Gueringer" Johnson are also running. All candidates are Democrats.

Nyguen said shes very confident that she will serve another term and asked voters to look at her record and the promises she made when they consider her for re-election.

We came in very strong with a lot of challenges, but what weve done for the past three and a half years is really tackle those issues and ... we still have a lot of work to do, she said.

Thomas, meanwhile, called this another great opportunity to serve and said that New Orleans East is too critical for it to be mired in some of the problems that its in right now. He also said it's time for the entire city to support the East.

Councilmember Helena Moreno, who holds the other at-large seat, drew opposition from Kenneth Cutno. Both candidates are Democrats.

+3 Qualifying for fall New Orleans elections starts Wednesday; here's who might run At top of ticket is Mayor LaToya Cantrell, seeking second term with no formidable challenger so far

The other soon-to-be-open seats on the council also drew significant interest from candidates, all of whom are Democrats except Rosalind Roz Reed-Thibodeaux in District B, who is an Independent.

Councilmember Joe Giarrusso will be running against at least one opponent, Bob Murrell, in his re-election bid.

In District B, two people have filed to run against Councilmember Jay Banks  Lesli Harris and Reed-Thibodeaux.

Five candidates are looking to replace Palmer in District C: Stephanie Bridges, Freddie King III, Stephen Mosgrove, Barbara Waiters and Frank Perez.

A packed field is shaping up to succeed Brossett in District D. Chantrisse Burnett, Troy Glover, Kevin Griffin-Clark, Mark Johari Lawes, Mariah Moore, Robert Bob Murray, Timolynn Tim Sams and Kourtney Youngblood all filed paperwork on the first day of qualifying.

Longtime Sheriff Marlin Gusman, a Democrat, filed Wednesday and is seeking his fifth term in office, though he faces opposition from fellow-Democrats, former Independent Police Monitor Susan Hutson and Christopher Williams, and from Independent Party, Quentin Brown Jr.

With Arthur Morrell not seeking election as Criminal District Court Clerk, three candidates filed to qualify Wednesday, all Democrats: Austin Badon, Patricia Boyd-Robertson, and Darren Lombard.

Coroner Dwight McKenna, a Democrat, filed and drew no challengers the first day.

Democrat Delisha Boyd, who is running for a seat in the state House of Representative also had no challengers on day one, nor did Democrat Chelsey Richard Napoleon, who is running for re-election as Clerk of Civil District Court.

Qualifying continues Thursday and runs through 4:30 p.m. on Friday.

Jeff Adelson contributed to this report.

CORRECTION: Earlier versions of this story misspelled Timolynn Sams' name and incorrectly reported how many council members are running for the at-large council seat that has no incumbent.
And now there are four.

Incumbent Marlin Gusman and three challengers filed papers Wednesday to run for Orleans Parish sheriff in what could become a crowded referendum on his 17-year tenure in office.

+6 Ahead of New Orleans fall elections, see who has the biggest campaign war chest New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell has built a formidable war chest in her campaign for a second term even as she lacks a high-profile challeng

Gusman, who drew no opponent in 2017, spent most of his current term sidelined from direct control of his jail because of its failure to comply with a federal reform agreement. But he claims credit for improving conditions at the lockup.

Three challengers in the Oct. 9 election arent buying it. They are Susan Hutson, the former independent monitor for the New Orleans Police Department, former federal security official Chris Williams and perennial candidate Quentin Brown.

All the candidates are Democrats except for Brown, an independent whose best showing in five prior races for elective office was when he drew 3% in the 2014 primary for sheriff.

Gusman is the early leader in name recognition and campaign finances, raising $123,000 this year compared to the $8,000 banked by Hutson. The other candidates haven't reported campaign contributions.

Hutson, however, hopes that shifting attitudes on criminal justice, epitomized by Jason Williams election as district attorney in 2020, could hand her control of an office that frequently receives poor marks from court-appointed monitors for failing to prevent violence, suicides and overdoses in the jail.

Chris Williams served as an Orleans deputy sheriff from 1988 to 1991 then went on to a career that included stints as director of public safety for Dillard University and as police chief for the local Veterans Affairs hospital, according to his resume.

The jail has been operating under a federal consent decree since 2013. It requires Gusman to follow hundreds of provisions designed to make the jail safer for inmates and deputies alike.

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In 2015, the sheriff opened a new central jail building with space for 1,438 beds, which he promised would put an end to many of the lockups problems. But by the next year, he was pressured into entering an agreement that handed day-to-day-control to a court-appointed official known as a compliance director.

New Orleans jail deputy abandoned female employee trapped by inmates, lawsuit says A cardinal rule at any jail is that staffers are supposed to have each others backs.

Gusman finally resumed control in November, but federal monitors said recently that the jail is still plagued by violence, illegal drugs and deputy turnover.

The sheriff sought to turn critiques on their head, taking credit for dramatically shrinking the jail population since Hurricane Katrina in 2005 despite his battles with the City Council for a larger lockup than the one that was ultimately built.

The growing field of candidates could make it harder for Gusman to avert a Nov. 13 runoff. Gusman trounced his last challenger, former Sheriff Charles Foti, in 2014. A recent poll put him at 48% approval.

+4 A new sheriff in town? Susan Hutson, longtime NOPD monitor, to run against Marlin Gusman After more than a decade as the New Orleans Police Departments independent monitor, Susan Hutson wants to make the switch from watchdog to to

Separately, three candidates qualified for another top post in the Orleans criminal justice system, clerk of Criminal District Court. The office manages elections and keeps records for state criminal cases filed in the parish.

The candidates are all Democrats:

1st City Court Clerk Austin Badon

2nd City Court Clerk Darren Lombard

Patricia Boyd-Robertson, a Southern University at New Orleans professor who ran against incumbent Arthur Morrell in 2006.

Morrell announced last month that he wouldnt run for re-election.
WASHINGTON  The child tax credit had always been an empty gesture to millions of parents like Tamika Daniel.

That changes Thursday when the first payment of $1,000 hits Daniels bank account  and dollars start flowing to the pockets of more than 35 million families around the country. Daniel, a 35-year-old mother of four, didnt even know the tax credit existed until President Joe Biden expanded it for one year as part of the $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package that passed in March.

Previously, only people who earned enough money to owe income taxes could qualify for the credit. Daniel went nearly a decade without a job because her oldest son is autistic and needed her. So she got by on Social Security payments. And she had to live at Fairfield Courts, a public housing project that dead-ends at Interstate 64 as the highway cuts through the Virginia capital of Richmond.

But the extra $1,000 a month for the next year could be a life-changer for Daniel, who now works as a community organizer for a Richmond nonprofit. It will help provide a security deposit on a new apartment.

Its actually coming right on time, she said. We have a lot going on. This definitely helps to take a load off.

Biden has held out the new monthly payments, which will average $423 per family, as the key to halving child poverty rates. But he is also setting up a broader philosophical battle about the role of government and the responsibilities of parents.

Democrats see this as a landmark program along the same lines as Social Security, saying it will lead to better outcomes in adulthood that will help economic growth. But many Republicans warn that the payments will discourage parents from working and ultimately feed into long-term poverty.

Families of nearly 260K Louisiana students expected to get debit cards for food this summer Families of nearly 260,000 students in Louisiana will soon receive a new debit card pre-filled with funds for groceries this summer, following

Some 15 million households will now receive the full credit. The monthly payments amount to $300 for each child who is 5 and younger and $250 for those between 5 and 17. The payments are set to lapse after a year, but Biden is pushing to extend them through at least 2025.

The president ultimately would like to make the payments permanent  and that makes this first round of payments a test as to whether the government can improve the lives of families.

Biden will deliver a speech Thursday at the White House to mark the first day of payments, inviting beneficiaries to join him as he seeks to raise awareness of the payments and push for their continuation.

"The president felt it was important to elevate this issue, to make sure people understand this is a benefit that will help them as we still work to recover from the pandemic and the economic downturn," White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Wednesday.

Florida Republican Sen. Marco Rubio, who successfully championed increasing the credit in 2017, said that the Democrats plans will turn the benefits into an anti-work welfare check because almost every family can now qualify for the payment regardless of whether the parents have a job.

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Not only does Bidens plan abandon incentives for marriage and requirements for work, but it will also destroy the child-support enforcement system as we know it by sending cash payments to single parents without ensuring child-support orders are established, Rubio said in a statement Wednesday.

An administration official disputed those claims. Treasury Department estimates indicate that 97% of recipients of the tax credit have wages or self-employment income, while the other 3% are grandparents or have health issues. The official, who requested anonymity to discuss internal analyses, noted that the credit starts to phase out at $150,000 for joint filers, so there is no disincentive for the poor to work because a job would just give them more income.

Colorado Democratic Sen. Michael Bennet said the problem is one of inequality. He said that economic growth has benefited the top 10% of earners in recent decades, while families are struggling with the rising costs of housing, child care and health care. He said his voters back in Colorado are concerned that their children will be poorer than previous generations and that requires the expansion of the child tax credit.

Its the most progressive change to Americas tax code ever, Bennet told reporters.

Parenthood is an expensive undertaking. The Agriculture Department estimated in 2017, the last year it published such a report, that a typical family spends $233,610 to raise a child from birth to the age of 17. But wealthier children get far more invested in their education and upbringing, while poorer children face a constant disadvantage. Families in the top third of incomes spend about $10,000 more annually per child than families in the lower third.

The child tax credit was created in 1997 to be a source of relief, yet it also became a driver of economic and racial inequality as only parents who owed the federal government taxes could qualify for its full payment. Academic research in 2020 found that about three-quarters of white and Asian children were eligible for the full credit, but only about half of Black and Hispanic children qualified.

In the census tract where Daniel lives in Richmond, the median household income is $14,725 almost five times lower than the national median. Three out of every 4 children live in poverty. For a typical parent with two children in that part of Richmond, the expanded tax credit would raise income by almost 41%.

The tax credit is as much about keeping people in the middle class as it is about lifting up the poor.

Katie Stelka of Brookfield, Wisconsin, was laid off from her job as a beauty and haircare products buyer for the Kohls department store chain in September as the pandemic tightened its grip on the country. She and her sons, 3-year-old Oliver and 7-year-old Robert, were left to depend on her husbands income as a consultant for retirement services. The family was already struggling to pay for her husbands kidney transplant five years earlier and his ongoing therapies before she was laid off, she said.

With no job prospects, Stelka re-enrolled in college to study social work in February. Last month she landed a new job as an assistant executive director for the nonprofit International Association for Orthodontics. Now she needs day care again. That amounts to $1,000 a week for both kids.

All the tax credit money will go to cover that, said Stelka, 37.

Every little bit is going to help right now," she said. "Im paying for school out-of-pocket. Im paying for the boys stuff. The cost of food and everything else has gone up. Were just really thankful. The tide feels like its turning.

By JOSH BOAK, Associated Press

Associated Press writer Todd Richmond in Madison, Wisconsin, contributed to this report.
City of Norman Vector Control Officer Stephen Warren checks out a mosquito trap to make sure they are in order at his office in 2013. Mosquito traps around Norman are checked to determine if areas need to be sprayed or treated with larvicide.
Elsie DeLois Livesay, known by her friends as "Dee", 88, of Reynoldsburg, Ohio passed away Tuesday, July 13, 2021. She was born February 3, 1933 in Mangum, Oklahoma to the late Lettie and Robert Dutton Sr. Elsie is preceded in passing by her beloved husband Robert Livesay, brothers William a
For the many in our community who have gotten the COVID-19 vaccine, thank you.

For those of you who have not yet decided, I bring these thoughts, praying you will develop the confidence necessary to get vaccinated.

For the past 42 years, I have worked as a family doctor in Williamsport.My early life was spent on a farm near Danville.

It granted me the opportunity to see God's creation up close, and admire the practical ways of country folk. Those roots framed my learning as I studied medicine then trained to become a family doctor.

Being close to patients who seek out medical advice was, and is, my passion.

The experience of caring for patients with COVID-19 has been new, but what is similar to my usual role as a family doctor is in blending what scientific knowledge is known, along with the practical obligation to help my patients.

My job in primary care is to encourage good health practices and provide medical care to keep patients well enough to remain out of hospital, if possible.

COVID-19 is fraught with political divisions; Our conflicts over which news is accurate.

Having concerns about the vaccine is understandable, but the doctor in me that constantly seeks to weigh how to minimize harm while maximizing benefit advises you to get any of the three authorized vaccines - They are available from many of our pharmacies; health systems; and at River Valley Health and Dental Center.

Here are FACTS: 96% of U.S. physicians have gotten the vaccine.

There are ample supplies of the vaccine for everyone 12 and over in our community.

Eligible residents of our community have achieved 46% full vaccination. We need a higher percentage.

There is not yet consistently effective treatment for those who get COVID-19.

Up to 90% of survivors of COVID-19 have some continued symptoms after four months.

Mask use and social distancing suppress the speed of spread but do not stop the pandemic.

This virus will evolve until there are no patients left to harbor it. Fully defeating the pandemic is only possible when almost all eligible people get immunized.

Younger patients are now becoming the victims of severe COVID-19  some with long COVID-19 or death.

There are extremely rare, serious side effects from the vaccine, which are all seen much more frequently in patients who get sick from COVID-19.

The vaccines appear to provide broader and more long-lasting immunity than that gotten from natural infection.

The vaccines do not remain in the body long at all. They trigger our immune process and do not alter our DNA, change our fertility, or result in viral infection.

All taxpayers have paid for the high cost of vaccine manufacturing, whether you take it or not. Unfortunately, specific care for COVID-19 patients has been only partially successful. Unfortunately, specific care for COVID-19 patients has been only partially successful.

We have indeed learned much about how to diagnose cases and how to limit viral spread.

And, yes, hospitals have better treatment protocols for COVID-19. Long COVID-19 is present in up to 80% of those who have had severe disease with prominent neurologic problems lasting for many months.

We all want to see this pandemic gone.

I long to watch news reports showing that almost our entire nation has developed sufficient confidence in the vaccine to get fully protected. I want to see us protect those relatively few patients [I have some] whose conditions make getting vaccinated either more dangerous, or not effective.

I want our country to be able to donate millions of vaccine doses to less wealthy nations, like Guatemala  in part because we care for people from all nations, but also for our own protection by ridding the world of this virus.

Yes, it is true our government has not always been transparent with its data.

Yes, there are experts and non-experts who question the wisdom of the vaccine.

Yes, most who take the vaccine will sustain a three or four-day episode of headache, fatigue, arm soreness, and maybe fever.

Yes, there will be a small group of people who will be injured by the effects of the vaccine, most of whom fully recover as did a couple of my own patients.

The reasons for vaccine confidence include: It protects against severe COVID-19 infection.

It protects against spread to your friends and family.

It protects the community, our nation, and the world.

It protects against continuing economic distress. Please seek safety information from reliable news sources (like Please seek safety information from reliable news sources (like NorthCentralPa.com ); your doctor or nurse; the CDC ; the Pennsylvania Department of Health ; and other true experts.

Knowing that the risk of this virus, if it is not contained, is so much higher than the potential risk from the vaccine, I believe you will find the confidence to make and keep a plan to get your shot  now.
Harrisburg -- As a part of its continued effort to support STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) access and initiatives across the state, the Pennsylvania Department of Education has partnered with NextGenScience to launch the Pennsylvania Science Education Leaders (PennSEL) Network, a group of leadership teams representing 19 regions with the shared goal of improving science learning for all of the Commonwealth's students.

"The pandemic has helped intensify STEMs critical value and important role in creating solutions to some of the world's biggest challenges, said Acting Deputy Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Education Dr. Sherri Smith. We are committed to building sustainable networks of educators who will engage in and support the development of STEM literacy for every student, equipping them with the tools needed to solve problems through STEM in their communities, across the commonwealth, and around the world."

The PennSEL Network is the latest piece of a larger strategy to strengthen STEM education by investing in STEM learning experiences for educators and students. In September of 2019, the State Board of Education assigned the Department of Education with the task of updating Pennsylvania's science, technology, environment, ecology, and engineering standards for the first time in about 20 years. The PennSEL Network will help support educators during these updates.

The network will bring together Intermediate Unit-based teams of over 120 science leaders to create a common strategy for science teaching and learning. Through the network, educators and leaders will have opportunities to share ideas and problem solve across regions. Regional demonstration sites will be used to generate tools, resources, and processes that can be shared with educators to spotlight innovations that are working equitably to serve students.

When educators from the school, district, regional, and state level work together toward a common vision for science education, it makes a huge difference in creating meaningful and inclusive science experiences for students, said Vanessa Wolbrink, associate director of NextGenScience. Given events of the past year, its more important than ever that all students are empowered to think of science as something that helps them address issues that affect their lives and communities." Wolbrink led the Tennessee District Science Network and will oversee the work of the PennSEL Network.

Partners and support for the PennSEL Network include Arconic Foundation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Grable Foundation.




Correction 7/15/21 : According to the report, Fisher was seen at the back of the property. The article said entering the house. It has been updated.

Jersey Shore, Pa. After showing officers around his home and reporting his dog being stolen, a Jersey Shore man told investigators he knew exactly where his missing pooch would be located.

Gucci, a Chihuahua reported stolen on June 30, had been the source of an argument between the owner and Lauren Nicole Fisher, 27, of Jersey Shore. The owner of Gucci knew where Fisher was located and the type of vehicle she was driving.

Officers spoke with Fisher, who answered the door with Gucci in her arms. Fisher allegedly told officers she found the dog in the middle of the street near the accusers residence.

According to the report, the authorities spoke with the owner of a nearby pizza shop, who provided camera footage of Fisher pulling into the driveway at the accusers home. Video also showed the woman exiting the vehicle, go to the back of the residence, and then quickly leaving in her car.

Fisher told officers, She would take whatever charges and she is going to keep her dog, according to the report.

Fisher was charged with third-degree felony criminal trespassing. Records show she was given $10,000 unsecured bail, which she posted right after an arraignment.
Bradford County, Pa.  As police were leaving the scene of an investigation, they noticed a man running from a trailer that appeared to be on fire.

Police combed the area and discovered the man, who they witnessed put a red can of gasoline behind a parked car near the residence. One of the officers said, I think that trailer is on fire, after leaving the previous investigation, according to an affidavit.

Once confronted, officers said the man, identified as Cody Ryan House, 32, of Monroeton, confessed to starting the fire.

House told police he attempted to get the occupants out of the trailer. When they didnt come to the door, House allegedly lit the fire to make the occupants leave the residence.

House told officers he wanted to confront the occupant after an alleged assault that took place earlier in the evening.

Kyle Decker, 36, of Monroeton was charged with aggravated assault after authorities said he body-checked a man during an argument. According to the report, House said he believed Decker lived inside the trailer and wanted to confront him over the incident.

Related reading: Man charged with felony assault after authorities said he body-checked a man

For his actions, House was charged with arson and possession of explosive material and held at the Bradford County Prison in lieu of $50,000 monetary bail. House will meet with Judge Fred Wheaton at the Bradford County Courthouse on July 21 for a preliminary hearing at 9 a.m.

Docket sheet
Bloomsburg, Pa. Bloomsburg Police are asking the public for help in identifying an armed robbery suspect, who brandished a weapon and demanded cash from an employee at a gas station on July 13.

Officers said the actor fled the scene with an undisclosed amount of cash. The suspect is described as white and approximately 5-8. During the robbery he was wearing black clothing, gloves, and a ski mask.

Anyone with information is being asked to call Sergeant Rogutski at 570-784-4155 extension 169 or submit a tip on CrimeWatch.
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Rome, GA (30161)

Today

Thunderstorms likely. Rainfall will be locally heavy at times. High around 80F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 100%. Locally heavy rainfall possible..

Tonight

Thunderstorms. Low near 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
Rome, GA (30161)

Today

Thunderstorms likely. Rainfall will be locally heavy at times. High 79F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%. Locally heavy rainfall possible..

Tonight

Thunderstorms. Low near 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
Roseburg, OR (97470)

Today

Sunny skies. High 89F. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Mainly clear early, then a few clouds later on. Low 58F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph.
Cleveland-Cliffs is offering steelworkers cash bonuses of up to $3,000 if they get vaccinated against coronavirus.

Steelworkers can get bonuses between $200 and $3,000 depending on how many people at their workplace get vaccinated. Company officials describe the bonuses as "the most generous vaccine incentive program in the world."

"For those of you who know me for many years and those of you who I have met during my recent visits to several of our sites, you know I truly care about the health and safety of our employees," Chairman, CEO and President Lourenco Goncalves wrote in a message to employees. "That is why I have so strongly advocated for the COVID-19 vaccines. The vaccines work to protect you, your young children, your older parents and your friends."

Goncalves urged workers to keep their colleagues safe.

"Very importantly, they protect your co-workers that cannot be vaccinated at this time, due to existing or temporary health conditions," he said. "I met some of these men and women on the floor of several of our plants; they exist and they need our help."

Cleveland-Cliffs will pay each worker $1,500 if 75% of their workplace gets vaccinated and $3,000 per employee if 85% gets the vaccine.
Batistatos, who began with the SSCVA more than three decades ago, has been in conflict with its board of directors for weeks, after board members raised concerns during contract negotiations about his total compensation, which exceeds $330,000 between salary and benefits.

The board voted 12-2 Thursday to remove Batistatos from his role in the day-to-day operations of Lake County's tourism agency, which is funded largely by hotel taxes and promotes visitation, conventions and sporting events across Lake County and greater Northwest Indiana, which it has long marketed as the South Shore. He will continue to be paid until his contract runs out at the end of December or his attorney reaches an agreement with the SSCVA.

"In an effort to allow the opportunity to address the board's concerns with respect to Speros Batistatos' compensation and to allow the board's council time to discuss with his council a number of outstanding issues, I request a motion that Speros Batistatos be relieved of his day-to-day responsibilities effective immediately," Board Chairman Andy Qunell said. "While he will not be required to provide any services in his position as the president and CEO of the Lake County Convention and Visitors Bureau, he will be paid during this time frame and remain in this status until whichever is earlier: Dec. 31, 2021, the end of his appointment agreement, or until the board's council and his council successfully resolve the outstanding issues associated with his role as president and CEO of the Lake County Convention and Visitors Bureau."
People can learn how to create mixed-media relief artwork with seashells, sand and other beach materials at an upcoming art class in Chesterton.

The epoxy resin workshop will take place between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 7 at the Chesterton Art Center at 115 S. Fourth St. in Chesterton.

"Kim Riley will be offering an epoxy resin workshop at the Chesterton Art Center. Learn how to safely use epoxy resin to create a mixed-media relief piece inspired by the beach," the Chesterton Art Center said in a press release. "Participants will layer shells, beach glass, sand and coral into resin onto glass in frame to create a unique piece of art. All materials and supplies are provided, but feel free to bring shells or other small pieces to add. Participants will also create a small resin bookmark or luggage tag as a bonus project."

The Chesterton Art Center will clean and sanitize all surfaces because of the coronavirus pandemic. It will provide students with hand sanitizer.

No make-up days will be offered for any Chesterton Art Center classes missed because of COVID-19.

Tuition for the class costs $50 for current Chesterton Art Center members and $60 for non-members. A supply fee of $38 also must be paid to the instructor just before the workshop.
"Before the movie, we'll also point out all the important scenes and things to look for so they don't miss any local aspect of it," he said.

After the movie screening, the guests with ties to the film will talk more about it and take questions from the audience.

In addition to Depp as Dillinger, other actors starring in the film, which was directed by Michael Mann, were Christian Bale and Marion Cotillard.

One of the Region residents featured in the film was Hammond native Dave Innes, who has done a variety of voiceover work for video and film. Innes, who will be at the movie event, had a part as a federal agent in a scene with Christian Bale.

Innes said he's looking forward to the event and talking about memories of filming the movie.

"It's going to be a good time," Innes said.

Innes recalled one of the memorable moments of his filming experience.

His scene with Christian Bale was on the Capitol steps, he said, and the actual Capitol building it was shot at was the Madison, Wisconsin Capitol. "They said Madison's Capitol was as close to the Washington D.C. Capitol as they could get," he said. It looks very similar, he added.
During a past interview, Doughty, who now lives in Minnesota, said the Midwest was a good place to be a young band.

"I left Evansville when I was 12 because my dad got a better job and we moved to Belleville, Illinois," he said. Doughty then went to college in Champaign.

"We were all serious students at first," Doughty said, adding he was studying engineering. They then started honing their musical skills by playing band gigs around the college town.

"We were getting popular on campus," he said. But they could never predict "it would ever become a career."

REO Speedwagon is currently comprised of Doughty, Kevin Cronin, Dave Amato, Bryan Hitt and Bruce Hall.

Doughty said he thanks the REO fans for sticking with the group all these years.

"They're the reason we're still in business. We haven't had a hit in a long time but because of the live shows they see us out there having a good time," he said. And the fans keep coming out to see them.

"We're so hungry to be back and it's going to show in our performance," Doughty said.
PORTAGE  With hearty handshakes and hugs, members of the Bonner Senior Center returned Monday for the centers grand reopening picnic.

Shuttered for nearly 16 months due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the center, operated by the Portage Township Trustees office, began offering a full slate of activities, including lunch, for Portage Township seniors Tuesday.

It is great to be here and great to see you guys, Portage Township Trustee Brendan Clancy told some 200 members who gathered under a large tent to enjoy each others company, food and music.

Clancy said safety is of the utmost importance for the seniors. Those who are not vaccinated will be asked to wear masks and to socially distance when possible. Clancy said guidelines have been put into place to keep seniors safe.

While the building was closed during this time, center director Robin Wilkening said staff continued to offer services to members. Each day they provided approximately 160 meals to members through either delivery or curbside pick-up.

Clancy thanked partner agencies, Northwest Indiana Community Action Corp., city of Portage, state of Indiana, Portage Township Schools and Portage Township YMCA, for helping provide services to seniors while the center was closed.
VALPARAISO  An initial murder hearing was held Thursday morning for a 43-year-old Valparaiso man, who had to be placed in a state mental facility after tearing up three of the four padded cells at the Porter County jail.

Michael Bachar rambled on incoherently at times about the Bible and his case during the short video conferencing hearing carried out between the Indiana Reception Diagnostic Center in Plainfield and the local courtroom of Porter Circuit Court Judge Mary DeBoer.

Bachar asked the judge to keep a witness in the case away from his family.

"I don't want to be around this person," he said.

As Bachar began speaking about the details of his case, DeBoer stopped him, pointing out the hearing was being recorded.

"I'm happy that it's being recorded," he said.

Porter County Sheriff Dave Reynolds later said that it was unusual to have to send a county inmate with mental health problems to the Indiana Department of Correction while his case proceeds.

Yet Porter County, like other counties, just does not have the proper resources at its jail to hold and treat someone with severe mental health issues, he said.
Mehta-Paul last was seen at her medical office March 21, 2011.

Fontaine lived with his mother in the 9800 block of Twin Creek Boulevard in Munster, but he did not report her missing, records show.

A missing persons report was filed March 24, 2011, after police went to her residence at the request of a colleague, records state.

During the investigation of her disappearance, Fontaine knew Mehta-Paul was deceased but gave police various false statements, including that she unexpectedly traveled to India, according to his plea agreement.

Fontaine admitted he found Mehta-Paul dead March 21, 2011, but did not call 911 or report her death to a physician, the Lake County coroner's office or police.

Instead, he "disposed of the remains in a manner not authorized by law" in an effort to hinder the investigation into her disappearance and death, records state.

The investigation into Mehta-Paul's disappearance continued for eight years, until Fontaine's arrest on the murder charge in March 2019.
EAST CHICAGO  A former River Forest Community School Corp. administrator was named interim superintendent for the School City of East Chicago.

At a special board meeting Wednesday night, School Board President Vanessa Hernandez-Orange announced that Steve Disney will take on the interim role after Dee-Etta Wright announced her retirement at a board meeting last week.

"I'm honored to serve the students, family, staff of and board of School City of East Chicago as interim superintendent," Disney said. "East Chicago is a district with a long history of tradition and pride and I personally believe that every child can be successful if given the opportunity, support, instruction, guidance and love."

He went on to say the success of educators is built on relationships with students, parents, teachers and the community. The district's mission, he said, should be all about kids and learning for all  whatever it takes.

"I want to thank everyone for being so welcoming to me," he said.

Most recently, Disney was superintendent for River Forest for almost seven years. In late May, the district sent out a two-paragraph email with a statement saying Disney would be leaving his position. A reason for his departure was not given.
The Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission is taking a fourth try at a federal grant that would help complete the Marquette Greenway, a recreational trail system that would link Chicago to New Buffalo along the Lake Michigan shore.

An application for a $23 million Department of Transportation RAISE grant was submitted Monday, NIRPC Transportation Planning Manager Mitch Barloga told the commission at its Thursday online meeting.

The total represents about 47% of the estimated cost of the remaining 26 miles of the trail system, which will run about 60 miles from Calumet Park on the south side of Chicago to downtown New Buffalo. The remaining work of more than $40 million has been divided into 17 projects.

Were hoping to share good news later this year, Barloga said of the highly competitive grant process.

Previous Marquette Greenway grant applications were made under former iterations of the grant program, first labeled TIGER, then BUILD. Since 2009, nearly $9 billion has been awarded to 680 projects across the country, from a total of about 9,700 applications
MICHIGAN CITY  City workers are in for big pay raises if Mayor Duane Parry and City Council President Michael Mack get their way.

Parry announced raises effective this week for lifeguards and street department drivers and operators to address employee shortages.

Faced with an inability to hire enough lifeguards for Washington Park again this summer, Parry raised wages to $25 an hour for lifeguards, $26 hourly for assistant head lifeguards and $27 an hour for the head lifeguard.

Weve already gotten many inquiries about it. Its a game-changer, he said Monday. Were trying to get through with no more drownings.

We cant keep them out of the water, so our goal is to assemble a team that is observing and responding within 90 seconds, Parry said.

Improving beach safety also includes looking at technological solutions, including drones and emergency response personal watercraft, he said. The watercraft are bigger than a standard Jet Ski, capable of carrying two rescuers and with a hard apron that trails off the back end to carry a person who ran into trouble in the water.
DeBerry told county police she had been caring for Bouler for the past eight years and he had been acting strangely three months prior to the incident.

She said Bouler was depressed about the deaths of his daughter and grandson and how he didnt have anything to live for and was going to kill himself.

She said he made sexual advances toward her  which she did not reciprocate  while he was under the influence of alcohol. She said Bouler disliked her boyfriend, whom she said Bouler threatened the day before the incident, saying he was going to get a gun and shoot her and Stigger.

County police said they recovered Boulers cellphone and data showing that he had made a total of 114 calls to DeBerrys phone on the day before and the day of the incident.

She said she started blocking Boulers calls to her, but did speak with him the morning of the incident to ask if he was feeling better.

She said Bouler replied he was hurt and had been up all night drinking and threatened that DeBerry and Stigger were all going to die today.
MCG executives argue, however, that the worst is over for the company. Even during the pandemic last year, its retention rate was 92 percent, as members largely opted to keep paying their dues. And when clubs have been able to reopen, according to Mr. Jones, members have largely flocked back.

We dont have a problem with demand, he said. (One thing that has changed, he conceded, is that members arent staying out quite as late as they did before the pandemic. I think, in Covid, were a bit out of practice staying up late, he said.)

That mirrors the overall arc of demand for private clubs, said Bill McMahon Sr., the chairman of the McMahon Group, a consultancy to the industry. At least in the United States, the industry as a whole has boomed, most likely thanks to the buoyant economy. The number of new clubs has risen, as has the number of applicants for them, particularly those 55 and younger, Mr. McMahon said.

When people have more money in their pocket, theyre signing up, he said.

MCG hopes to add three to five clubs every year across its brands, which also include the Ned and the Scorpios beach clubs, according to its prospectus.

If anything, those goals are conservative, suggested Andrew Carnie, MCGs president. The company opened a Soho House this spring in Austin, Texas, with clubs in Paris, Tel Aviv and Rome also set to debut this year. Seven clubs are expected to open next year, including a Scorpios resort in Tulum, Mexico.

The company expects to pay down much of its debt with proceeds from its stock sale, Mr. Carnie said. And it hopes to finally turn a profit by the end of 2022.

MCG has also been expanding its offerings. Last year, it rolled out Soho Friends, which allows limited access to clubs and events for an annual fee of 100 pounds, or $138. (Traditional full-service membership costs about $3,400 a year.)
But on Wednesday in Brooklyn, Mr. Adams and Mr. Cuomo alternated between speaking from behind a lectern, and listening to each other from the side.

The two men both prevailed in their most recent elections over skeptical left-wing forces in the party. They appeared at their most simpatico on Wednesday when speaking about the urgent need for improved public safety and quality of life  reaching for strikingly grim, sometimes hyperbolic terms to describe life in Americas largest cities  while taking veiled swipes at those who deal in theoretical progress, as Mr. Cuomo framed it, rather than the difficult realities facing New York City.

A progressive, Mr. Cuomo claimed, is one who actually makes progress for people.

Im happy that you touched on progressive, what it means to be progressive, a slightly hoarse Mr. Adams said as he began his introductory remarks following Mr. Cuomo, who smiled as Mr. Adams started in. Weve allowed the term being progressive to be hijacked by those who do not have a track record of putting in place real progressive changes. And I am not going to surrender my progressive credentials.

Their policy focus was gun violence and combating a spike in shootings that has rattled neighborhoods across the city. Mr. Cuomo recently declared a gun violence emergency in the state, and on Wednesday he called the violence a civil rights issue, noting that victims in New York have disproportionately been Black and Latino residents.

Mr. Adams stressed the importance of combating handgun violence, and urged a holistic approach to promoting public safety, rather than one rooted in heavy-handed policing though he supported a more expansive role for the police than some of his primary opponents did. As he has done before, he linked combating crime to the citys economic recovery.

Throughout their appearance, there were plenty of united-front moments. Mr. Cuomo, who made references to their shared roots in boroughs outside of Manhattan, appeared to murmur his assent as Mr. Adams warned of high-income New Yorkers fleeing to Miami if they felt the city was too unsafe  though rates of violent crime today are far lower than in earlier eras in New York. Mr. Adams, as he noted their efforts to enact marriage equality in the state, turned to face Mr. Cuomo, demanding, Did people forget? That was our bill.

And when a journalist remarked that it sounded like Mr. Adams wanted to put more people in jail, Mr. Adams rejected that characterization  and Mr. Cuomo then leapt to the lectern to criticize the question.
That view is something more than a hunch on the part of Democrats. Before the previous legislative session, in 2019, the speaker of the Texas House at the time shared an animus toward cities in a private conversation with a Republican lawmaker and a conservative activist.

My goal is for this to be the worst session in the history of the Legislature for cities and counties, the speaker, Dennis Bonnen, a Republican who represented a district just south of Houston, said in a conversation that was secretly recorded.

His comments about cities reflect a commonplace view among some Republicans in Texas, even if they are not always as pointedly expressed. Republican operatives and officials described the dynamic as one of concern over the progressive turn in the states cities, a change in culture and politics that has accelerated rapidly over the past decade.

And the changes have begun spreading into the suburbs. Populous counties outside of Houston and Austin that once reliably voted Republican have swung in recent years toward the Democrats, said Mark Jones, a professor of political science at Rice University.

With the bluing of the major urban counties and the blushing of many of the major suburbs, what has allowed the G.O.P. to continue to win statewide has been its increasing dominance in the states rural counties, Dr. Jones said.

Most states have similar divisions between blue cities and red rural areas. But in Texas, the divisions have taken hold only relatively recently  Houston voted for a Republican, George W. Bush, for president in 2004  adding to the alarm among Republicans and anticipation among Democrats that the state could soon be up for grabs.
Oleg Briansky, who distinguished himself first as an international ballet star and then as an influential ballet teacher, died on July 7 in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. He was 91.

His death was confirmed by his wife and only immediate survivor, the French ballerina Mireille Briane, through Yelena Demikovsky, a family friend and the director of a documentary about Mr. Briansky and Ms. Briane. She said that Mr. Briansky, who lived in Manhattan, was visiting Florida with his wife and had been hospitalized because he was not feeling well. He had been in poor health for about a year.

As a dancer, Mr. Briansky was tall, dark and handsome, full of verve and energy  and versatile.

He was as willing to caper around a stage portraying a jester as he was to bring down the house through blazing virtuosity in the Don Quixote pas de deux with the tempestuous ballerina Tamara Toumanova.

Mr. Briansky excelled as a partner to numerous world-class ballerinas in addition to Ms. Toumanova, once an early protegee of George Balanchine. The list of female stars who often invited Mr. Briansky on special tours reads like a Whos Who of Great Ballerinas, all different. They ranged from Alicia Markova and Margot Fonteyn to Violette Verdy, and also included Maria Tallchief, Melissa Hayden, Nathalie Krassovska, Mary Ellen Moylan, Patricia Wilde and Beryl Grey, the British ballerina Mr. Briansky partnered on a five-month tour of South Africa.
The Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan has seldom shied from creating works that raise eyebrows. He is, after all, the person responsible for that $120,000 banana, and the popular, highly symbolic gold toilet that went missing in 2019.

In his latest solo exhibition unveiled Wednesday at Pirelli HangarBicocca in Milan, Cattelan has set out to deal with less irreverent, more existential themes like the fragility of life, memory, and collective loss.

But his work remains provocative as ever: The third part of his exhibit, Breath Ghosts Blind, is a hulking resin monolith being pierced all the way through by an airplane  a visceral and graphic reminder of 9/11 from a man who was in New York that day.

Blind is something Ive been thinking about for years, Cattelan said, according to a transcript of an interview that will soon be published in the catalog of the exhibition. I had to walk home from LaGuardia, which took hours, and the things I saw stayed with me.
When Esther Bejarano was 18, she played accordion in the womens orchestra at Auschwitz, which played marches as prisoners left the concentration camp for hard labor and upbeat music as train loads of Jews and others arrived.

They must have thought, Where music is playing, things cant be that bad, she told The New York Times in 2014, recalling how some detainees smiled and waved at the musicians. They didnt know where they were going. But we knew. We played with tears in our eyes.

Mrs. Bejarano died on Saturday at a hospital in Hamburg, Germany. She was 96. With her death, Anita Lasker-Wallfisch, a cellist, is believed to be the only member of the orchestra still alive.

Mrs. Bejaranos death was announced by the International Auschwitz Committee, which was founded by survivors of the death camp and to which she belonged, serving as a powerful voice against intolerance in her later years.
Theres a vast amount more in I Alone Can Fix It. Its an almost day-by-day accounting of Trumps last year in office, from the fumbled Covid response to the second impeachment to Rudy Giulianis public self-immolations. There are apocalyptic scenes of Trump dressing down and humiliating those around him, including former Attorney General William P. Barr.

Image Carol Leonnig and Philip Rucker, the authors of I Alone Can Fix It: Donald J. Trumps Catastrophic Final Year. Credit... From left: Marvin Joseph; Melina Mara

A final scene worth mentioning occurred during the siege on January 6. The congresswoman Liz Cheney called Milley the following day to check in. She described being with the Trump dead-ender Representative Jim Jordan during the attack on the Capitol, and how he said to her, We need to get the ladies away from the aisle. Let me help you. Cheney responded, the authors write, by slapping his hand away and telling him, Get away from me. You [expletive] did this.

Among the first intellectuals to take Trump seriously as a cultural and political force was Camille Paglia. Writing in Salon six months before the 2016 election, she presciently described him, in a photograph with a busty younger woman, as resembling a triumphant dragon on the thrusting prow of a long boat.

Paglias dragon comment came back to me while I was reading Wolffs book, Landslide. Wolff, too, tells a broad, jumpy, event-laden story about Trumps shambolic final year. But hes particularly interested in Trumps X-factor, his Luciferian pride, his engorged ego, his gargoyle chi  as well as his darkly telepathic relationship with his admirers and the sick realization that in his universe standard morality is waved aside as if by force majeure.

Wolff blames the striving, orderly, result-oriented, liberal world and its media, including this newspaper, for missing the point about Trump. Wolff suggests Trump dwells outside the knowable and the conventionally understood. He was never cynical and armed with a grand strategy. He had completely departed reality.

His aides stuck with him, in part, because they came to believe he had magical properties. He was unkillable. He was that dragon on a thrusting prow. Why bet against him? Wolff asks.
There are two basic questions to ask about any variant of the Covid-19 virus: Is it more contagious than earlier versions of the virus? And is it more severe?

When a variant is more contagious, it leads to a rise in the number of infections, especially among the unvaccinated. When a variant is more severe, it causes worse symptoms for the average person who gets the virus and leads to a greater percentage of cases that result in hospitalization or death.

It is easy to confuse these two different concepts when a variant  like Delta  begins spreading. If the variant is more contagious, it often appears to be more severe as well because the increase in caseloads leads to an increase in the raw number of hospitalizations and deaths, as Dr. Robert Wachter of the University of California, San Francisco, explained to me.

In response, journalists and some experts talk about the new variant being worse, riskier or more dangerous  broad concepts that muddy the difference between contagiousness and severity. Part of the problem is imprecision in language, Dr. Rebecca Wurtz, an infectious-disease expert at the University of Minnesota, said.
Myanmars junta hoards oxygen

The military has ordered that the lifesaving gas be withheld from private clinics and has even stopped charities from giving it away, medical workers say.

The military has also prevented people from buying supplies from oxygen producers, whom it accuses of price-gouging, forcing desperate family members to defy the army in order to save sick relatives. This week, soldiers fired into a crowd of people waiting to buy oxygen tanks, witnesses said.

Doctors accuse the military of trying to ensure that the scarce supply is funneled to military hospitals, which cater to army families. And with the junta having apparently reserved much of the vaccine supply for its loyal ranks, there is little hope that Myanmars Covid outbreak, by far its worst yet, will end anytime soon.

Virus: The highly contagious Delta variant is causing cases to explode; the test positivity rate in Myanmar was recently 34 percent.
Two Chevrolet Bolt EVs recently caught fire after they were repaired as part of a recall last year that affected nearly 51,000 vehicles in the United States, federal safety officials announced on Wednesday.

Now, owners of Chevrolet Bolts from the model years 2017 through 2019 have been urged to park their vehicles outdoors after charging and to avoid leaving them while they charge overnight, the officials and the cars manufacturer said on Wednesday.

The affected vehicles were originally recalled in November 2020 over concerns that some of them may contain high-voltage batteries that may pose a risk of fire when charged to full, or very close to full, capacity, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said at the time.

As part of the 2020 recall, the cars manufacturer, General Motors, offered to have software inside the vehicles reprogrammed so that batteries could only be charged up to 90 percent of their original capacity.
And all of those changes could fade quickly  or never even make it to Mr. Bidens desk  if Democrats political calculus is off and they cannot muster the 50 votes they need in the Senate or suffer even a handful of defections from fiscal moderates in the House.

The blueprint reflects a deliberate choice by the president and his party to advance as many new spending programs and tax cuts as possible, but also allow some of them to expire in a few years to conform to the limited tax and spending appetites of moderate senators, whose constituents tend to be wary of large budget deficits. The hope  and gamble  is that the programs will prove so popular that a future Congress will keep them alive.

The rewards and risks of that strategy were on display on Thursday at the White House, where Mr. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris welcomed several families to celebrate the first round of monthly payments to parents under the expanded child tax credit that Mr. Biden signed into law in a separate $1.9 trillion aid bill aimed at helping people and businesses stay afloat through the pandemic.

The credit delivers payments of up to $300 per month for children younger than 6 and $250 per month for children ages 6 to 17, for families earning up to $150,000 a year, at which point the benefit begins to phase out gradually. The White House has promised the payments will cut child poverty in half, though the Treasury Department is struggling to reach some of the lowest-income families in the country with the money they are eligible to receive because they often do not earn enough to pay income taxes and do not file a return with the Internal Revenue Service.

Mr. Biden cast it as a legacy-defining move, saying that its our effort to make another giant step toward ending child poverty in America and one of the things that the vice president and I will be most proud of when our terms are up.
What was the moment when you realized that the way weve been doing things just isnt working?

My journey on this dates back to the early 90s. When I started at Best Buy, the basic advice from investors and management was cut, cut, cut. Close stores. Fire everybody. We did the opposite. We listened to the frontliners. We treated head-count reduction as a last resort. So the philosophy was there from the beginning.

If you think about business by first thinking about how you want to be remembered as a human being, most of us gravitate to the golden rule  doing something good to our people. If you can connect that desire in your heart with the way you run the business, the employees will love the company. The customers will love the company.

What were some of the obstacles you encountered as you worked to turn around Best Buy?

Our main challenges were: How do you create these new strategies? How to get 100,000 people to embrace them? People can have conversations about changing the system. I think that if we change ourselves, and change the way we run companies, there is an enormous amount we can do, and we dont need to blame anyone. We dont need to become a B Corp to do good things in the world.

Are there specific actions you think companies should take?

I would start with providing an attractive environment and set of opportunities for their employees. Raising the minimum wage is a very important trend, but it goes beyond pay. It is about benefits, taking care of your employees, including their mental health or their ability to vote. It is about a path to advancement, skills acquisition. It is about offering a growth environment, one where you feel you belong, one where you feel your manager is investing in you, one where you can connect what drives you with your work.

The others have to do with developing a concrete plan to become carbon neutral and making sure you are a good member of the community in which you operate.

If companies are going to pay workers more and pay more taxes, doesnt that at the end of the day mean there will be fewer profits for executives and investors? Thats a hard sell to the people who currently have the most power to change these things.

My experience has been that you can actually create more shareholder value by embracing this stakeholder approach. That doesnt mean its always easy, and it takes time. If in 2012 I told the investors, Im going to immediately go to $15 an hour, it would not have been reasonable. So we did it over time. Its like, if I want to lose 20 pounds overnight, you cant. It takes time.
So once you decided it would be a cow, whats the first step? How do you cast a documentary subject like that?

I wasnt sure whether wed need a cow that you could pick out in a crowd. Luma had a very distinct white head, with this sort of black eyeliner around her eyes. She also was described as having some attitude and I loved the sound of that. All the people I spoke to who look after cows say that they do have quite distinct personalities.

You can sense that personality, though I couldnt help but wonder if thats part of the empathy and projection thats created when you watch a movie. When you were on the ground observing Luma, could you feel that personality, too?

Very much so. I was saying the other day to somebody that I find it very moving when she  [Arnold pauses, tearing up.] I cant say it, almost. I find it moving now, telling you. A few times, Ive just burst into tears about it.

What is it she did that you found so moving?

I always said early on that if the cows are aware of the camera, just let it be honest. We cant pretend were not there and our presence is going to have an impact on the way she behaves. Sometimes, she did get sort of angry with us and head-butt the camera, but I really felt over time that she felt seen. I dont know if Im right, but it feels very profound, because the whole point was to see her.

Some of the looks she gave us when I was there, I thought, Shes really looking at me and Im really looking at her and we see each other. Obviously, she doesnt know what this thing is that is filming her, but she could certainly feel that we are focusing on her. I think she felt the gaze. When we were editing, I kept feeling like, I see you Lu, I see you.
Shielded by a rats-nest beard and layers of decaying clothing, Rob (Nicolas Cage) lives in a rudimentary cabin in the Oregon wilderness with his beloved pig. Together, they forage for truffles that Rob barters for necessities when Amir (an indispensable Alex Wolff) makes his weekly visit. The truffles are bound for high-end Portland restaurants; when the pig is stolen, her owner will be compelled to follow the fungi.

Pig, Michael Sarnoskis stunningly controlled first feature, is a mournful fable of loss and withdrawal, art and ambition. Told in three chapters and a string of beautifully delineated scenes, the movie flirts with several genres  revenge drama, culinary satire  while committing to none. Instead, Sarnoski takes us on an enigmatic journey as Rob searches for his pet and revisits a life he long-ago abandoned.
Jonathan Schroders The Boys in Red Hats is a maddening instance of a movie at war with itself. Thats appropriate enough since its subject is the encounter on Jan. 18, 2019, between white high school students and a Native American demonstrator at the Lincoln Memorial. The incident became a viral flash point over one teenagers grinning in the face of the Native American elder.

As an alumnus of the students school, Covington Catholic in Kentucky, Schroder presents this film as his journey toward understanding. He hears out pooh-poohing parent chaperones, agitated former students, one students attorney and a current pupil whose identity is concealed. Black activists on the day and Covingtons penchant for pep rallies are both advanced as explanations for the teens behavior.
The complimentary tone would be fleeting.

In an effort to improve the relationship between the two offices, Eric Adams, the likely next mayor, made a public appearance with Mr. Cuomo on Wednesday, their first since Mr. Adams secured the Democratic nomination last week.

The two emphasized areas of common ground, particularly around public safety. The major question: Will the unity last?

[Read more about their joint appearance from my colleague Katie Glueck.]

Heres what to know:

The shared messaging

At a Brooklyn church, Mr. Cuomo and Mr. Adams offered similar proclamations about the need for stronger public safety and better quality of life  talking in strikingly grim, sometimes hyperbolic terms as they discussed city life.

The two also claimed the mantle of progressivism as they took apparent swipes at some on the left.

The new relationship

Mr. Adams and Mr. Cuomo are not thought to have deep personal bonds. But the two briefly overlapped while Mr. Adams was a state senator, which may ease the early stages of their relationship.
Once their investigation is complete, Mr. Kim, a former senior federal prosecutor, and Ms. Clark, a prominent employment lawyer, are expected to issue their findings in a public report. Its contents could be politically devastating for Mr. Cuomo, who is navigating one of the most turbulent points of his decade-long tenure.

While many of the states top Democrats called on Mr. Cuomo to resign earlier this year, many others said they would wait for the outcome of the investigation before weighing in his fate. The findings could inform a separate, broader impeachment investigation being conducted in the State Assembly, which is also looking at the governors handling of nursing home deaths during the pandemic, among other controversies.

It remains unclear exactly when the investigation will end, and there is no deadline for a report to be issued; Ms. James said last month that the inquiry will conclude when it concludes.

While Mr. Cuomos deposition suggests the investigation is in its later stages, it does not necessarily guarantee the inquiry is closing: Investigators could still call him, and other witnesses, for follow-up interviews based on his testimony and other evidence. But a person familiar with the investigation has said a report is on track to be released before summers end.

A spokeswoman for the attorney generals office declined to comment on Thursday.

Richard Azzopardi, a senior adviser to Mr. Cuomo, said in a statement, We have said repeatedly that the governor doesnt want to comment on this review until he has cooperated. Mr. Azzopardi added that the continued leaks are more evidence of the transparent political motivation of the attorney generals review. He provided no evidence that the attorney general was leaking information.
The face of this work force has changed significantly and become predominantly immigrant, said Maria C. Figueroa, director of labor and policy research at the ILR School at Cornell University.

Ms. Figueroa, who conducted a survey of more than 500 gig workers in the city this spring, said many immigrants lost jobs in restaurants, stores and construction last year and turned to making deliveries for app-based companies. We asked them, why did you take this job? she explained. They said this was the only job available.

After factoring in the costs of buying their own smartphones, electric bikes and other gear, delivery workers in New York City were earning between $6.57 and $7.87 per hour, not counting tips, Ms. Figueroa said. She said tips were excluded because of their unpredictability in a system where gratuities often go directly to the app company and workers often complain that they are shorted.

There are a lot of cases of irregularities in the payment of tips, she said.

Ms. Figueroa cited the example of a worker named Jonan who was promised a $70 tip for delivering a large order of bagels and coffee to an office building in Manhattan last month. He received $2.50 from the app, she recounted, and got no more even after appealing to the restaurant and the apps worker center.

One of the main appeals of gig work is supposed to be the flexibility; it allows workers to set their own hours and work part time to earn money on the side. Many New Yorkers seem to rely on gig jobs to make ends meet.
But the men behind New Yorks first subway lines, known to old-timers as the IRT and BMT (as opposed to the municipal bean-counters who built the A and D of the IND some 30 years later), were out to dazzle. The stations they created were both handsome  how else to explain how the elegant rectangular tiles lining their walls now beautify the bathrooms of people too fancy to ride the trains?  and grand, featuring those wonderful, whimsical mosaics. Many have been restored, and the cars running through them are bright and shiny.

By contrast, the A and D lines, completed under Mayor LaGuardia, were utilitarian for starters and left to rot ever since: While some of the cars date back to Mayor Wagner, the ambient grime seems untouched since Mayors Impellitteri and ODwyer. Even Whitman, who loved all conveyances carrying lots of people, couldnt have found anything poetic about them. The trains on those misbegotten lines take forever to come, as if, mindful of their grim destinations, they never really want to arrive.

But just as I entered the old subway shelter on 72nd Street, the one with the elegant Dutch facade, the monitor over the turnstile reading No. 3. New Lots Av switched from solid chartreuse to pulsating amber: My train was pulling in. With that swift swipe New Yorkers have perfected and a burst down the stairs, I could make it.

As always, I surveyed the assembled people with whom Id share my journey  another advantage of the trains over antisocial cabs and Uber  and settled in for the ride. But another sensation soon distracted me: After a slow start, the motorman had opened up the throttle.

It rarely happens. There are all those decrepit hundred-year-old signals youre always hearing about, the ones taking another hundred years to be replaced. And that ubiquitous train traffic in front of us. And those tyrannical, anonymous dispatchers who, were informed, are forever holding trains in stations. Or the assorted, unexplained stops and slowdowns that capture the subways festering wounds. But this day at least, marshaling all the power at its command, the train was soon hurtling, careening  careering, Whitman might have said  down the tracks. The sleepy backwaters of the Broadway Local, its patrons watching forlornly from the platforms, flashed by in blurs  66th Street! 59th! 50th!  getting the back of the hand from the mighty, haughty Express.
But youd never know it watching C-SPAN. The bipartisan infrastructure bill cuts most of the climate investments from President Bidens American Jobs Plan, leaving them for a future reconciliation package that may or may not pass. Theres been much debate on the left over whether the bipartisan bill should be killed, or at least stymied until its successor is closer to passage. But the bipartisan bill includes some climate priorities  $47.2 billion for climate resiliency projects, $73 billion for upgrading the electricity grid  and theres little reason to believe that destroying it will make Senator Joe Manchin likelier to support a sweeping, partisan effort.

It is better than nothing; it is not nearly enough. The same is true, to be honest, even of the broader investments Biden envisioned. That is the state of climate policy in 2021, and I am not optimistic that it will be much different in 2022, or 2025.

Climate alarmism is useless, tweeted Juan Moreno-Cruz, the Canada Research Chair in Energy Transitions at the University of Waterloo. The impacts of climate change are here. Lets talk about climate realism. The problem, he continued, is that talking climate solutions have left us unprepared for actual climate change. We keep running models and fighting over which solution is the best, but we have done nothing to address the impacts of climate change. Adaptation research and implementation is severely underfunded.

But when I spoke to Moreno-Cruz, his realism didnt seem much more realistic, and he knew it. We need to provide adaptation measures and investments to the majority of people on the planet, he told me. Adaptation is a monstrous challenge, arguably harder and pricier than simply reducing emissions would be. It requires infrastructure, migration support, income and food security, and much more, and the financing must flow from rich countries to poor countries. At that point, it becomes very similar to mitigation in the sense that our incentives in the rich countries to protect the poor countries are not aligned, Moreno-Cruz said.

We underestimate the horrors humans will adapt to. There is no expanse of suffering that guarantees a compassionate response. The wreckage of the coronavirus is a reminder that even the deaths of family members, friends and neighbors will not inevitably transform our politics. More than 600,000 American lives have been lost, and for all that, the 2020 election looked much like the 2016 election, and fights over even so modest an adaptation as masks roiled the nation. Worse, American politics moved on as soon as the epicenters of crisis shifted beyond our borders. There is nothing in the past year that should make us believe that ruinous suffering in India will focus minds in America.

I do not want this to be a column arguing for despair. No emotion is more useless, and its wrong at any rate. If we fail to keep warming below the longtime global goal of 2 degrees Celsius, well, 2 degrees remains better than 2.5. And 2.5 is far preferable to 3. And humanity would much rather have 3 than 3.5. And so on, and so forth. There is no point at which giving up makes more sense than fighting on.

But to the immediate question  how to force the political system to do enough, fast enough, to avert mass suffering  I dont know the answer, or even if there is an answer. Legislative politics is unlikely to suffice under any near-term alignment of power I can foresee  though I dearly hope Congress passes, at the least, the investments and clean energy standards proposed in the American Jobs Plan. I doubt a wave of bombings would accelerate change, and even if I believed otherwise, who am I to tell others to risk those consequences? The pace of renewable technologies has been a welcome surprise, and I would have us spend endless billions on technological moonshots  including nuclear, direct air capture and even geoengineering research. There is nothing we should not prepare to try, but even if we invent the fuels of the future, we will need policymakers to deploy them over the cries of industries that want to profit from the machines and oil wells of the past.
South Africa has been a very fragile nation for a very long time  a place of persistent economic struggle and breathtaking inequality, intolerable violence and racial animus still lurking beneath every national controversy. (Sound familiar?) But until this week, I had never seriously entertained the idea that the place might suddenly fall apart. As was evident in the countrys bloodless handover from racist rule, troubled as it has been, there was a fundamental social stability undergirding South African society that I believed would hold.

But now it looks as if something key has been lost. The coronavirus may have dealt South Africa a blow that even AIDS could not, driving the country of my birth down the path of madness, a society slumping into the abyss.

The possibility of such collapse terrifies me  not just as a native South African but as an American. Thanks to mass vaccination, its beginning to feel like morning in wealthy parts of the world, notwithstanding the social and political dislocations the virus has created in the United States. But on much of the rest of the planet, it is still dark night.

What is happening in South Africa is different from whats happening in Haiti, whose president was assassinated last week, or in Cuba, where thousands took to the streets in protest over rising poverty and state indifference, or in Colombia, Brazil, Lebanon and other places where protests and unrest have flared up in recent months. Yet there is an obvious common thread that suggests a systemic failure: A pandemic that refuses to abate is ripping societies apart. The coronavirus has gutted economies, depleted social, medical and security services, corroded trust and created opportunities for rampant violence and political persecution. And in the absence of effective vaccination programs, there isnt any room for hope, either.

These are fragile places with many underlying vulnerabilities, said Masood Ahmed, the president of the Center for Global Development, a nonprofit that aims to reduce poverty in developing nations. That is what we need to worry about. As the months wear on, youre going to see a lot more countries where trust levels and tolerance will start fraying.
Pretty soon, unlicensed Texans will openly carry loaded firearms into grocery stores, gas stations and even airports. Women will effectively be unable to get a legal abortion. And schoolchildren wont learn, at least not legally, the unvarnished story about discrimination or racism. And a bunch of Texas legislators are hanging around Washington, D.C., trying to derail draconian restrictions on voting rights in their home state.

But this isnt another jeremiad on just how crazy we dang Texans are.

No, this is a cautionary tale of what can go wrong in America when there is not a strong Democratic Party to check an increasingly undemocratic Republican Party and force it into moderation. Bipartisanship may be a pipe dream, but if America doesnt want to wind up like Texas, it should pay attention to what has gone awfully wrong in the Lone Star State. Democrats everywhere have to get tough.

The majority of Texas House Democrats fled a special session in Austin on Monday because they had no other choice. They are so politically powerless that they could not otherwise stop this steamroller of a bill, fervently supported by the Republican governor, Greg Abbott, which would essentially strip voting rights from perhaps millions of Texans, mostly the young, the old, Latinos and African Americans. (None of these groups, of course, are mentioned by name in the legislation, which instead clips drive-through voting, mail-in voting and extended voting, all of which are vital if you cant just take off from work at your leisure on any given Tuesday to cast a ballot.)

Republicans control the levers of power, including every statewide office, and what seems like every single one of the three million votes in the mostly rural areas of the 261,000 square miles of the state. Democrats are so outnumbered and stripped of power in state government here  after a generation of Republican gains  that the only way they can stop the agenda of the far right is to run away and rob the Legislature of a quorum.
For most of the past century, human dignity had a friend  the United States of America. We are a deeply flawed and error-prone nation, like any other, but America helped defeat fascism and communism and helped set the context for European peace, Asian prosperity and the spread of democracy.

Then came Iraq and Afghanistan, and America lost faith in itself and its global role  like a pitcher who has been shelled and no longer has confidence in his own stuff. On the left, many now reject the idea that America can be or is a global champion of democracy, and they find phrases like the indispensable nation or the last best hope of the earth ridiculous. On the right the wall-building caucus has given up on the idea that the rest of the world is even worth engaging.

Many people around the world have always resisted Americas self-appointed role as democracys champion. But they have also been rightly appalled when America sits back and allows genocide to engulf places like Rwanda or allows dangerous regimes to threaten the world order.

The Afghans are the latest witnesses to this reality. The American bungles in Afghanistan have been well documented. Weve spent trillions of dollars and lost thousands of our people. But the two-decade strategy of taking the fight to the terrorists, in Afghanistan and elsewhere, has meant that global terrorism is no longer seen as a major concern in daily American life. Over the past few years, a small force of American troops has helped prevent some of the worst people on earth from taking over a nation of more than 38 million  with relatively few American casualties. In 1999, no Afghan girls attended secondary school. Within four years, 6 percent were enrolled, and as of 2017 the figure had climbed to nearly 40 percent.
In September 2019, Lydia Okello, a content creator who works primarily with slow fashion brands, received an email from a small underwear company offering to send a package of its products, with no pressure to post about them. Mx. Okello agreed, and within two weeks, a recyclable package containing a soft lilac bralette and a matching pair of vertiginously high-waisted panties arrived at their doorstep in Vancouver, British Columbia.

I was surprised underwear could be that comfortable right away, said Mx. Okello, who was so sold on the underwear that they have since acquired eight more pairs, paid for completely out of pocket.

The brand, ARQ, in McMinnville, Ore., sells just one style of nether garments: a borderline parody of granny panties with a rise so steep it inches past the belly button. (The company also offers three styles of bralette, a tank top and a bodysuit in an array of cheerful colors.)

At $28 per pair, the panties are not exactly budget-friendly. Yet despite the unfashionable silhouette and purple price, ARQ has managed to collect a cult following that pledges utter fealty to the exaggerated intimates based on their formidable coverage, comfort and counterintuitive sex appeal.
Viljandi is a charming little place, with a compact inner core made up of a well-defined old town in classic Baltic style  rows of wooden houses in varying states of renovation and decay, some painted pastel shades and others in raw wood; cobblestone streets and some grander buildings in a variety of styles, from Art Deco to Swiss chalet. Its also unusual for Estonia in that its hilly. The land around and just beyond the old town undulates in small, green hills that give way to a longer slope, leading to Lake Viljandi, which runs along its southeast edge and is a popular spot in warmer months.

Perched above the large lake are the ruins of an old fortress, the setting for many of the performances at the annual Folk Music Festival, the towns main draw. After a year off, it is returning this month, from July 22 to 25.

During the festivals four days, this town of 17,000 people usually more than doubles in population. This year the maximum daily attendance will be limited to 5,000. But the festival is not the only show in town. The Culture Academy, an offshoot of Tartu University, offers degrees in traditional arts and crafts of many kinds, from woodworking to weaving, and music as well. There is a national theater for stage productions, the Ugala, that wouldnt be out of place in a capital city. A massive outdoor amphitheater (the location for the all-important Song Festival) adds yet another performance venue.

All of this feeds a cycle of cultural instruction and production that keeps the town feeling like a hub despite its small size and remote location. And as more creative types from Tallinn have based themselves here with their families, there has been a snowball effect. You might expect one restaurant in a town this size, said Martin Bristol, an Estonian craftsman who lives in the small town of Esna, about an hours drive to the north. But here we have 40, and 20 of them you might actually like to eat in.
Treasury Department officials said Wednesday that in the first batch of payments, the I.R.S. had sent nearly $15 billion to families that include nearly 60 million children. About 86 percent of those payments arrived via direct deposits in bank accounts, the officials said, and the rest were on their way in the form of checks.

Still, the numbers indicate that millions of families with eligible children will not receive payments in the first round  including some of the most impoverished children in the country. Analysts say there are between four million and eight million children whose parents earn so little that they do not file federal income taxes, making them harder for the I.R.S. to reach.

The I.R.S. has attempted to court those families by setting up a web portal for them to sign up to receive direct government payments, including stimulus checks approved by lawmakers in pandemic relief legislation last year and this year. But Treasury officials said Wednesday the portal had succeeded in reaching families containing about 720,000 children, leaving millions more at risk of not receiving the tax credits benefit.

The programs fate may depend on whether Democrats unite around a bigger package and advance it through the evenly divided Senate. But critics, seeking to thwart plans to make the program a permanent part of the countrys social policy, have equated the unconditional payments to welfare. Senator Marco Rubio, Republican of Florida, recently wrote that the new payments, with no work required, would resurrect a failed welfare system, and provide free money for criminals and addicts.
Some Republican Leaders Speak Up for Vaccines Virus cases are soaring in Indonesia, straining hospitals. In the United States, the Delta variant is widening the gulf between the vaccinated and unvaccinated, including in New York City, where cases are rising as the variant infects unvaccinated people, though hospitalizations and deaths remain low.

Some Republican leaders are speaking out in favor of Covid vaccines. Video transcript Back bars 0:00 / 1:09 - 0:00 transcript Senate Republican Leaders Promote Vaccinations Mitch McConnell, the Senate minority leader, and Senator Roy Blunt spoke on Tuesday about the slowing pace of vaccinations, calling on Americans to get inoculated in order to protect themselves and others. Im perplexed by the difficulty we have in finishing the job. If youre a football fan, were in the red zone, but were not in the end zone yet, and we need to keep preaching that getting the vaccine is important. Nobody knows more about that than Senator Blunt. I dont know if you want to add anything Roy to what Ive said here, but we need to finish the job. And its, part of it is just convincing the American people of the importance of doing this. Everyone who knows this subject says that if you get the disease again, chances are pretty good youre not going to die from it if you get vaccinated. So I dont know how many times we have to keep saying it, but for myself, I intend to keep saying it over and over and over again. Roy, do you want to? Well, I think, I think, leader, that the point is that you cant just expect that if everybody else is going to get the vaccine and somehow thats going to protect you, that actually might be the case. But were at a critical moment here where the way to stop this is to be sure it has nowhere that it can continue to spread to other people. Mitch McConnell, the Senate minority leader, and Senator Roy Blunt spoke on Tuesday about the slowing pace of vaccinations, calling on Americans to get inoculated in order to protect themselves and others. Credit Credit... Sarahbeth Maney/The New York Times As the Delta variant rips through conservative swaths of the country, some elected Republicans are facing growing pressure from public health advocates to speak out  not only in favor of their constituents being inoculated against the coronavirus but also against media figures and elected officials who are questioning the vaccines. We dont control conservative media figures so far as I know  at least I dont, Senator Mitt Romney, Republican of Utah, said in an interview on Wednesday. That being said, I think its an enormous error for anyone to suggest that we shouldnt be taking vaccines. Look, the politicization of vaccination is an outrage and frankly moronic. Republican senators who favor vaccination are still taking pains not to mention the names of colleagues, such as Senators Ron Johnson of Wisconsin and Rand Paul of Kentucky, who have given voice to vaccine skepticism, or media personalities like Fox News Channels Tucker Carlson, who expresses such skepticism almost nightly. Vaccines are indeed effective against the Delta variant, and nationwide, the numbers remain at some of the lowest levels since the beginning of the pandemic. Still, with cases ticking upward, driven by localized outbreaks in places with low vaccination rates  Arkansas, Missouri, Texas and Nevada  Republican leaders are talking. As a polio victim myself when I was young, Ive studied that disease, Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the Republican minority leader, said on Tuesday. It took 70 years  70 years  to come up with two vaccines that finally ended the polio threat. As a result of Operation Warp Speed, we have not one, not two, but three highly effective vaccines, so Im perplexed by the difficulty we have finishing the job. If youre a football fan, Mr. McConnell said, were in the red zone. But were not in the end zone yet. And we need to keep preaching that getting the vaccine is important. Still, when asked about his conversations with vaccine skeptics in the Senate Republican Conference, Mr. McConnell demurred. I can only speak for myself, and I just did, he said. Senior Republicans are clearly walking a fine line. They cannot afford to see a resurgent coronavirus disproportionately hurt conservative voters, who have been fed a diet of misinformation about vaccines by right-leaning news outlets and commentators. But they cannot afford to alienate them either. Senator John Cornyn, Republican of Texas, said on Wednesday that much of the skepticism surrounding vaccines is based on conspiracy theories, unfortunately. I do acknowledge the right of an individual to decide whether theyre going to get the vaccine, he said, but what Ive tried to do is encourage everybody to get the vaccine. On Wednesday, a group of Republican senators and House members introduced legislation to repeal mask mandates on public transport, dismissing the spread of the virus. The viral spread is collapsing and our normal lives are returning, declared Representative Andy Biggs, Republican of Arizona. Mr. Cornyn drew a distinction between densely populated urban areas like Houston and Dallas, where he said mass vaccination is vital, and smaller, spread out cities like Odessa and Midland where social distancing is not a problem, let me say. The virus has not drawn that distinction. Some of the fastest growth is happening in smaller cities and rural regions, like parts of southern Missouri and northern Arkansas. Mr. Romney tried to appeal to supporters of former President Donald J. Trump in those areas. People who support him applaud the fact that he moved heaven and earth to get vaccines developed on a timely basis, Mr. Romney said. He accomplished that, and not taking advantage of that would be an insult to the accomplishment. As to his message to vaccine skeptics in his conference, Mr. Romney said, They know where I stand.

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New Yorks official virus death toll is 11,000 lower than what the U.S. has counted. Heres why. A patient being wheeled on a stretcher to a waiting ambulance outside Elmhurst Hospital in Queens in April 2020. Credit... Ryan Christopher Jones for The New York Times For more than a year since the coronavirus outbreak, New York State officials have stuck with an approach that has allowed the state to report a lower and incomplete death toll. The number of deaths reported on the states online dashboard, and during Gov. Andrew M. Cuomos coronavirus briefings, includes only people who died at hospitals, nursing homes and adult-care facilities, but not, for example, at home or in prisons. The toll also includes only deaths that were confirmed with a coronavirus test by a lab. New Yorks methodology differs from that of many other states, as well as the federal governments National Center for Health Statistics, which uses more precise criteria to assemble state-by-state death tolls, relying on death certificates submitted by state health departments. Now, the effect of New Yorks more constrained count has begun to show: The states official virus death toll as of Wednesday was about 43,000, compared with the death toll of more than 54,000 compiled by the N.C.H.S., which is part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. New York is not alone: At least half the states, including California and Texas, have publicly reported a lower number of deaths than the N.C.H.S. But other states with lower death tolls were below the N.C.H.S. number by about 3,000 or fewer; nowhere is the gap between the reported deaths larger than the 11,000-death discrepancy in New York, according to a New York Times analysis. The disparity in the death tolls underscores the lasting and painful difficulties of accounting for the full scope of coronavirus fatalities, even as much of the governments response has turned toward expanding the vaccine rollout and the nations reopening and recovery. The wide variance in New York also comes as Mr. Cuomo is facing a series of state and federal investigations into his administrations efforts to obscure the toll of nursing home deaths during the pandemic.

The caseload in Indonesia has been skyrocketing, setting daily records. Health care workers moving a woman outside an emergency room overrun with Covid-19 patients in Central Java. Credit... Ulet Ifansasti/Getty Images Indonesia reported more than 54,500 coronavirus cases on Wednesday, its third record daily rise in a row as the country has surpassed Indias current daily caseload. A seven-day rolling average of daily cases in the two countries showed them running neck and neck, but Indias caseload has been steadily declining while Indonesias has been skyrocketing, according to data collected by the Center for Systems Science and Engineering at Johns Hopkins University. Over the past few weeks, hospitals on Java island have overflowed with patients and residents have scrambled to buy medical oxygen to treat family members at home. Hundreds of people have been reported to have died of the virus at home because of a lack of oxygen and as a result of an overwhelmed health care system. Based on the last three days data, I can say clearly that Indonesia has become the new epicenter in the world, said Dicky Budiman, an Indonesian epidemiologist at Griffith University in Australia, who has long urged the Indonesian authorities to implement firmer measures to control the spread of the virus. Over the past two weeks, the daily numbers of infections have nearly doubled, and on Wednesday, Indonesia reported 991 new deaths. Video Indonesia reported more than 54,500 new virus cases on Wednesday, its third record daily rise in a row as oxygen is in short supply. Credit Credit... Ulet Ifansasti/Getty Images Experts believe that the Delta variant is behind the surge in cases in Indonesia, the worlds fourth most populated country. By contrast, Indias daily case count, which peaked at more than 414,000 in early May, has fallen to about 40,000. The outbreak in Indonesia is the latest example of the widening gap between Western countries and other nations during the pandemic. Countries like Britain and the United States have reopened their economies and so far have been able to absorb a surge in cases with limited hospitalizations and deaths thanks to successful vaccine rollouts. Others, like India and now Indonesia, have lagged behind in vaccinations and face devastating consequences from Deltas spread. Studies suggest that vaccines remain effective against the Delta variant, but only 13 percent of Indonesias population of 270 million has received one dose of a coronavirus vaccine, while less than 6 percent has been fully vaccinated, according to the Our World in Data project at the University of Oxford. By comparison, nearly half of the U.S. population has been fully inoculated, and on Wednesday Britain passed the threshold of having vaccinated two thirds of its population. In Indonesia, most injections came from the Sinovac Biotech vaccine; at least 20 Indonesian doctors who were fully vaccinated with Sinovac have died from the virus. The neighboring Philippines, which also has struggled to contain the virus, has banned arrivals from Indonesia, and other countries, including Japan and Saudi Arabia, have begun evacuating their citizens from Indonesia. On Sunday, Indonesia received three million doses of the Moderna vaccine donated by the United States. Indonesian officials said that the first priority for these doses would be to give booster shots to nearly 1.5 million health workers.

Vaccination efforts in Haiti and Cuba are complicated by unrest and protests. A police checkpoint in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, a country in turmoil after its president was assassinated. A sign above encourages efforts to stop the coronavirus. Credit... Federico Rios for The New York Times The continuing political unrest in Haiti and the recent wave of street protests in Cuba risk making already tenuous efforts to contain the Covid-19 pandemic even more difficult, officials from the World Health Organization warned. We are concerned about Haiti, which, in the midst of considerable political turmoil, has seen thousands of people displaced by ongoing violence and instability, Carissa Etienne, the director of the Pan American Health Organization, which is part of the W.H.O., said, warning that crowded shelters could become active hot spots for Covid transmission. A shortage of medical supplies across the country and the violence sparked by the assassination of President Jovenel Moise of Haiti last week are also hindering the ability to safely care for patients in need, Dr. Etienne said, adding that in some cases, patients may be avoiding seeking care due to safety concerns. Haiti is one of the few countries in the world that has yet to administer any Covid vaccines. On Wednesday, Haiti received 500,000 doses of the Moderna vaccine donated by the United States through the Covax vaccine-sharing initiative, the first doses to reach the country, PAHO said. Cuba is the latest country in the region, after others including Brazil and Colombia, to experience waves of protests due in part to the impact of this pandemic, Dr. Etienne said. Protesters in Cuba took to the streets in droves this past weekend in demonstrations that have been described as the largest in decades, leading to a stringent crackdown. Covid-19 has not just ravaged our health systems, it has fractured social protection programs and destabilized our economies, Dr. Etienne said. More than a third of people in the Latin American and Caribbean region are living in poverty and countries must continue prioritizing health and social safety nets as part of their Covid response, she added. In Cuba, which recently reported its highest number of weekly cases since the start of the pandemic, the protests are raising fears that they will exacerbate exposure to the virus. The agglomeration of people due to protests for political, religious, cultural or sporting reasons increases the risk of transmission, particularly if, as is the case in Cuba, there is active transmission in many parts of the country, Ciro Ugarte, PAHOs director of health emergencies, said. Throughout Cuba, all the municipalities are in community transmission and health authorities have confirmed the presence of the highly contagious Delta variant in several locations across the island, Dr. Ugarte said. Cuba reported that 27 percent of its population had received at least one dose of either of its two homegrown vaccines as of July 10. Cases of Covid-19 have also spiked in other Caribbean nations, including the British Virgin Islands, which has seen cases triple weeks after it opened the country to cruise ships. The region accounts for more than a third of Covid-19 cases and more than 40 percent of deaths reported worldwide this past week, Dr. Etienne said. The region continues to suffer from a lack of vaccines and only one in seven people in Latin America and the Caribbean have been fully vaccinated. Money, more than public health, has determined how quickly countries can secure the tools that they need to combat this virus, Dr. Etienne said.

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Londons mayor says masks will remain mandatory on public transport. Video transcript Back bars 0:00 / 0:45 - 0:00 transcript London Will Still Require Masks on Public Transit, Mayor Says Mayor Sadiq Khan of London said face masks would continue to be mandatory on the citys subways and buses after July 19, when England plans to lift most coronavirus restrictions. I think after Monday, we should continue making it compulsory to wear a face mask on public transport, where often you cant keep your social distance. It adds an additional layer of protection, but also reassurance. The evidence we know from the governments own scientific advisers, the evidence from the World Health Organization, is you wearing a face mask, makes it less likely that the virus can be passed on. It reduces transmission in an indoor space where you cant keep your distance. But also the Centers for Disease Control in the U.S.A. have now said actually, on top of it being the most unselfish thing you can do, wearing a face mask may reduce the chances of you catching the virus. So for me, its really important that we make sure public transport continues to be both safe, but also reassuring. Mayor Sadiq Khan of London said face masks would continue to be mandatory on the citys subways and buses after July 19, when England plans to lift most coronavirus restrictions. Credit Credit... Andrew Testa for The New York Times Face masks will continue to be mandatory on Londons subways and buses even after the government lifts the legal requirement to wear them on July 19, the citys mayor, Sadiq Khan, said on Wednesday. Mr. Khans announcement puts the London rules at odds with those announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who is pushing ahead with a plan to lift almost all Covid restrictions in England, even as coronavirus infections surge and hospital admissions begin to mount. Adding to the messaging confusion, Mr. Johnson has encouraged people to continue wearing masks in crowded and confined places even though, under the relaxed rules he announced, it will no longer be a legal requirement. Mr. Khan, who is in the opposition Labour Party, said that wearing a face mask would be a condition of using Londons sprawling public transportation system, which includes the Tube, buses, overground trains, and light rail networks. Passengers who refuse to put one on will be ordered to leave the system. The wearing of face coverings helps reduce the spread of Covid, and crucially gives Londoners confidence to travel  vital to our economic recovery, Mr. Khan said on Twitter. My mask protects you, your mask protects me. Mr. Khan said that masks would also remain mandatory in taxis and ride-hailing services. Mr. Khan expressed optimism in television interviews that people would abide by the rules. Most riders on the subway and buses wear masks, but some public-health officials worry that behavior could change quickly if they were no longer compulsory. Officials in other cities have expressed fears that the governments relaxed rules will contribute to a further surge in infection rates. In Manchester, the citys Labour mayor, Andy Burnham, is also weighing a legal requirement to continue wearing masks on the public transportation system. Mr. Johnson has argued that, with vaccines widely deployed in the adult population, England must stick with plans to reopen its economy fully and shift the emphasis from legal restrictions to personal responsibility. Nonetheless, the British health minister, Sajid Javid, acknowledged that infections could soar to more than 100,000 a day later in the summer. On Tuesday, Britain reported 36,660 new cases, a 27 percent increase over the same day last week.

Virus cases rise in New York City as the Delta variant infects the unvaccinated. A mobile vaccination site in Brooklyn last month. In the past week, New York City had a stretch of several days of 400 or more coronavirus cases. Credit... Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images Fueled by the Delta variant, daily coronavirus case counts in New York City have climbed in recent days, even as the city seems determined to turn the page on the pandemic. Just a few weeks ago, there were only 200 new cases a day across the city on average, the lowest level since the early days of the pandemic. But in the past week, the city had a stretch of several days of 400 or more cases. And the test positivity rate has doubled: from below 0.6 percent on average to about 1.3 percent. Those numbers are still low, but the increase has been swift, surprising some epidemiologists and public health officials who had not expected to see cases jump so quickly after remaining level through June. With some 64 percent of adults in the city fully vaccinated, epidemiologists say it remains unlikely that the Delta variant will create conditions as devastating as the past two waves of Covid-19. Still, Denis Nash, an epidemiologist at the City University of New Yorks Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, calls the recent uptick concerning. The Delta variant is far more contagious than the original form of the virus that swept across the city in March 2020. It was detected in a few cases in New York City in February during the second wave, but it really made inroads over the past two months. By the end of May, it accounted for about 8 percent of the cases sequenced by the city, and by mid-June, more than 40 percent. Countries around the world  and many U.S. states  are experiencing a surge as a result of the spread of the Delta variant. In Britain, where vaccinations surpass the U.S. rate, cases have soared but hospitalizations have risen more slowly. The metrics to keep a close eye on are hospitalizations and deaths, said Dr. Wafaa El-Sadr, a professor of epidemiology at Columbia University. Those numbers have remained stable in New York City. The seven-day average number of daily hospitalizations this week has stayed under 20. The city has recently seen four or five Covid-related deaths a day on average. Other U.S. cities areas have seen similar surges in infections. On Tuesday, Los Angeles County recorded its fifth day in a row with more than 1,000 new coronavirus cases, with health officials attributing the rise to the Delta variants spread among the unvaccinated. Health officials in New York City have tended to focus on Staten Island, where vaccination rates are below the city average, wearing masks is unpopular and positivity rates tend to exceed the city average. Four ZIP codes in Staten Island have had more than 100 cases combined in the past week. But case counts have climbed significantly in every borough. In Brooklyn, average daily case counts nearly doubled in recent weeks from under 60 to more than 100. On Tuesday, the ZIP code that had the highest average positive test rate in the city was in Harlem. Health officials have said that the vast majority of those testing positive have not been fully vaccinated. So far, the Delta variant has not led the city to drastically change its public health guidance or virus-related restrictions. Nor has it affected the plans of many large companies to get workers back to their desks in Manhattan, according to Kathryn Wylde, president of the Partnership for New York City, a leading business association.

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New N.Y.C. data looking at the first half of the year shows how few fully vaccinated people were infected. Walking past a mobile vaccination site in Brooklyn on Tuesday. Credit... Spencer Platt/Getty Images Vaccines offered powerful protection against the coronavirus in New York City, blunting the second wave of the virus and saving an estimated 8,300 lives between December of last year and July of this year, according to a new study by Yale University epidemiologists released by the city on Wednesday. The study underscored that the real-world performance of the vaccines can meet and even exceed trial results in preventing virus cases, hospitalizations and deaths, the city said. Only 1.1 percent of the 500,300 virus cases during the first six months of this year were among people who were fully vaccinated, according to data from the citys health department also released Wednesday in support of the study. Yet the data was also a reminder the protection was not perfect. A total of 94 fully vaccinated New Yorkers died from the virus between January and mid-June, compared with 8,069 deaths among the unvaccinated, the city reported, though it did not include specific demographic information. Vaccines are safe and astonishingly effective at protecting you and your loved ones, said the citys health commissioner Dr. Dave A. Chokshi, in a statement accompanying the release of the study. The stakes are so high, and we simply cannot emphasize enough how urgent it is for New Yorkers to get vaccinated. One important caveat is that most of the period of the study was before the Delta variant became the predominant variant in the city, according to the limited amount of genetic analysis of cases being done by the city each week. Studies suggest that vaccines remain effective against the Delta variant, though cases among those who are vaccinated tend to be mild or asymptomatic, the World Health Organizations chief scientist said this week. Because of vaccines, health experts dont expect the recent increase in cases to reach the levels seen in New York Citys first and second waves. The protection of vaccines remains powerful. A Public Health England analysis, which has not yet been peer reviewed, showed that Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was 88 percent effective against symptomatic disease and 96 percent effective against hospitalization from Delta, just slightly lower than against older variants. Moderna also reported on early studies showing only a modest reduction of antibody protection against the Delta variant. The data released Wednesday represented the most comprehensive look yet at breakthrough infections in New York City. In all, the city reported that about 5,300 fully vaccinated people were infected and 583 fully vaccinated people were hospitalized in New York with Covid-19 between January and June. The picture is more complete than what is being released nationally, as it included mild cases, while the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said it is only tracking serious breakthrough infections that result in hospitalizations or deaths. Far more vaccinated people, however, avoided the illness. The Yale study, which was done independently of the citys researchers, used statistical modeling to estimate that the citys vaccination campaign prevented about 250,000 cases in New York City, and 44,000 people from being hospitalized. The study is not yet published, and has just been submitted for peer review, the city said.

global roundup Cases surge in the Netherlands weeks after bars and restaurants reopened. Amsterdam in February. New daily cases in the Netherlands increased from 500 on June 25, a day before restrictions were dropped, to over 10,000 on Saturday. Credit... Peter Dejong/Associated Press New coronavirus cases in the Netherlands skyrocketed by more than 500 percent last week, according to the health authorities, a surge in cases that forced the countrys prime minister, Mark Rutte, to publicly apologize on Monday for having lifted restrictions too hastily. As new daily cases increased from 500 on June 25, a day before restrictions were dropped, to over 10,000 on Saturday, Mr. Ruttes government reimposed several measures, including ordering clubs and bars to close at midnight and reinstating a policy to serve only seated and spaced customers. On Monday, Mr. Rutte said he was sorry about the previous lifting of the measures. We thought it was possible, but it wasnt, he said. Mr. Ruttes government had reopened most of the countrys economy on June 26, pushing forward a projected date for easing restrictions by three weeks. Clubs, bars and restaurants reopened under a government-sponsored testing plan that in many cases failed to work because some bouncers and other staff members had not been properly trained. Mask mandates were also lifted except on public transport, in high schools and airports. In the weeks that followed, the health authorities reported more than 100 superspreader events, including in clubs, on party boats and in student societies. More than 1,000 people were infected at a festival that gathered 20,000 people in the city of Utrecht this month. As of Wednesday, around 65 percent of the population in the Netherlands has received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine, and 39 percent have been fully vaccinated, according to a New York Times tracker. In other news from around the world: In Australia , the authorities in Sydney said that the citys strict lockdown would be extended until at least the end of the month after another 97 infections were reported on Wednesday. The restrictions had been scheduled to end on Friday, but an outbreak driven by the Delta variant has yet to subside, leading to an extension of stay-at-home orders and remote schooling for the city of five million people and nearby areas. Gladys Berejiklian, the top official for the state of New South Wales, which includes Sydney, said that at least 24 of the 97 cases were infectious and still circulating in the community. Until that number gets close to zero, she said, the restrictions would have to remain in place.

A cruise ship returned to Singapore on Wednesday after a 40-year-old passenger tested positive for the virus, The Straits Times, a Singaporean newspaper, reported. Nearly 3,000 passengers and crew members were isolating in their cabins as the health authorities conducted contact tracing. The infected passenger, who was fully vaccinated, was identified as a close contact of a coronavirus case in Singapore and tested positive during the four-day cruise to nowhere, which had departed on Sunday, the newspaper reported.

Spains health ministry has decided to allow pharmacies to sell self-testing kits for coronavirus to individuals without clearance from health clinics, in a bid to better trace the spread of the disease as the countrys virus infection rate has soared in recent weeks.The authorization follows a long political battle over whether pharmacies should be enlisted into Spains testing efforts. The central government had opposed the idea until recently, arguing that pharmacists were ill-equipped to handle tests and that encouraging sick people to go to stores to buy test kits might create new infection clusters. The main doctors associations of Spain had also long rejected demands that tests be offered outside health clinics or carried out at home. Thomas Erdbrink, Damien Cave, Shashank Bengali and

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A Massachusetts school can continue to use electric shock devices to modify behavior by students with intellectual disabilities, a federal court said this month, overturning an attempt by the government to end the controversial practice, which has been described as torture by critics but defended by family members.

In a 2-to-1 decision, the judges ruled that a federal ban interfered with the ability of doctors working with the school, the Judge Rotenberg Educational Center, to practice medicine, which is regulated by the state. The Food and Drug Administration sought to prohibit the devices in March 2020, saying that delivering shocks to students presents an unreasonable and substantial risk of illness or injury.

Although the F.D.A.s ban was national, the school in Canton, Mass., appears to be the only facility in the United States using the shock devices to correct self-harming or aggressive behavior. The center serves and houses students  both children and adults  who have intellectual disabilities or behavioral, emotional or psychiatric problems.

Critics have called the practice dehumanizing and abusive, with the United Nations labeling it torture and the F.D.A. saying it can cause long-lasting trauma.
More than three years after a man carrying a deep-seated grudge and a shotgun blasted his way into a newsroom in Annapolis, Md., and killed five employees, a jury found Thursday that he was sane at the time and criminally responsible for his actions.

The finding means that the man, Jarrod W. Ramos, will be sentenced to spend the rest of his life in prison for one of the deadliest attacks on American journalists.

Mr. Ramos, 41, had pleaded guilty in October 2019 to 23 charges, including five counts of first-degree murder, for the shooting at The Capital Gazette newspaper offices on June 28, 2018.

The second phase of the proceedings focused on whether Mr. Ramos could be held criminally responsible for his actions or whether, as doctors called by Mr. Ramoss lawyers had argued, he had been driven by mental illness to carry out the shooting. Had the jury found that Mr. Ramos was not criminally responsible, he would have been committed to a state mental hospital.
A homeopathic doctor in California is the first person to face federal charges for selling fake Covid-19 vaccination cards, the authorities said.

The doctor, Juli A. Mazi of Napa, Calif., also sold Covid-19 immunization pellets to patients, federal prosecutors said. She was arrested on Wednesday and charged with one count of wire fraud and one count of false statements related to health care matters, according to a criminal complaint. Ms. Mazi faces up to 20 years in prison and hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines, the authorities said.

Ms. Mazi sold pellets for $243 that she said contained a very minute amount of the coronavirus that would trigger an immune response and provide lifelong immunity to Covid-19, the complaint said. To encourage customers to purchase the pellets, prosecutors said, Ms. Mazi falsely told them that the three Covid-19 vaccines authorized for use in the United States contained toxic ingredients.

She also offered homeopathic immunizations for childhood illnesses that she falsely claimed would satisfy immunization requirements for California schools, according to the complaint.
WASHINGTON  Ed Gonzalez, the sheriff of Harris County, Texas, made ending a partnership with Immigration and Customs Enforcement one of his first decisions on the job because, he said, the program encouraged illegal racial profiling.

Chris Magnus, the police chief in Tucson, Ariz., has taken pride in his city being welcoming to immigrants. It is also home to one of the busiest sectors of the Border Patrol, an agency that is rarely praised for its hospitality.

They have been tapped to run the federal governments immigration enforcement agencies, an abrupt shift from hard-line immigration chiefs in the Trump administration. If they are confirmed by the Senate  Sheriff Gonzalez at ICE and Chief Magnus at Customs and Border Protection  they would be responsible for delivering on President Bidens promise to return a measure of compassion to the immigration system after the roundups, zero tolerance, wall-building and family separations of the last administration.

A confirmation hearing for Chief Magnus has not yet been scheduled. But Sheriff Gonzalez testified on Thursday before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, whose Republican members pressed him on the surge of migrants arriving at the southwestern border.
Good morning.

In 2003, Dr. Ilkay Altintas, a computer scientist with the University of California, San Diego, had her first wildfire encounter. She had been in Santa Barbara for a workshop and couldnt take the train home.

The track was gone, she recalled this week.

So she hitched a ride with a colleague. She remembers seeing the ocean on one side of her and fire on the other as they drove. It was like heaven and hell.

That year, fires tore through the San Diego region, leaving 16 people dead and 2,400 homes destroyed. One of the blazes, the Cedar fire, was at the time the largest in California history, burning more than 273,000 acres.

Since then, that record has been demolished as climate change has lengthened fire seasons and caused the blazes themselves to burn hotter and faster. Last year, five of the six largest fires in the states known history together chewed through nearly 2.5 million acres. The Cedar fire is now the states eighth-largest blaze, and the only one in the top 10 to have taken place before 2010.
SOWETO, South Africa  Gingerly stepping over the slick, muddied floor of a supermarket in Soweto that had just been emptied and gutted by looters, the manager fretted over where neighbors would now get their food and how he would support his wife and four children.

Our livelihoods are gone, said Tau Chikonye, the 44-year-old manager, who had worked at the market known as the Supa Store for 13 years.

Nearby, standing in front of his five-bedroom home, a laid-off hotel worker who had joined in the looting  carting away flour, chicken, Pepsi and dog food to his family  contemplated the damage that had been wrought: His community no longer had a store nearby for shopping.

I feel horrible, said the unemployed hospitality worker, Sifiso, who asked that his last name be withheld for fear of being arrested.
BOGOTA, Colombia  Several of the central figures under investigation by the Haitian authorities in connection with the assassination of President Jovenel Moise gathered in the months before the killing to discuss rebuilding the troubled nation once the president was out of power, according to the Haitian police, Colombian intelligence officers and participants in the discussions.

The meetings, conducted in Florida and the Dominican Republic over the last year, appear to connect a seemingly disparate collection of suspects in the investigation, linking a 63-year-old doctor and pastor, a security equipment salesman, and a mortgage and insurance broker in Florida.

All have been identified by the Haitian authorities as prominent players in a sprawling plot to kill the president with the help of more than 20 former Colombian commandos and seize political power in the aftermath. It is unclear how the people under investigation could have accomplished that, or what powerful backers they may have had to make it possible.

But interviews with more than a dozen people involved with the men show that the suspects had been working together for months, portraying themselves in grandiose and often exaggerated terms as well-financed, well-connected power brokers ready to lead a new Haiti with influential American support behind them.
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti  The head of palace security for President Jovenel Moise, who was assassinated last week at his home, was taken into police custody on Thursday, deepening investigators focus into the possibility that Haitian insiders had eased the killers path.

The palace security chief, Dimitri Herard, made several stopovers in the Colombian capital, Bogota, in the months before the assassination. Haitian officials say a group of former soldiers from Colombia, whom they accuse of acting as mercenaries, played a central role in the killing.

On Thursday, the Pentagon also confirmed that some of those Colombian veterans had received training from the United States military, as part of a cooperation between security forces that has stretched for decades. Family members said that one them was the chief recruiter for the mercenary force, Duberney Capador, 40.

The revelations came as officials in Haiti, Colombia and the United States all raced to determine who was ultimately behind the assassination of Mr. Moise, and the aims and means of the conspirators.
AMSTERDAM  A Dutch crime reporter who was shot in the head in a brazen attack in central Amsterdam last week as he was leaving a television studio, died of his wounds on Thursday, his family said in a statement. The reporter, Peter R. de Vries, was 64.

Peter has fought until the end, but has been unable to win this battle, the statement, carried by the Dutch broadcast news service RTL Nieuws, said. We are indescribably proud of him and at the same time inconsolable.

Mr. de Vries, a well-known public figure in the Netherlands, was shot on the evening of July 6, an attack that drew widespread condemnation in a country where drug-related crime and shootings have steadily increased over the past decade. European leaders have condemned the shooting, which also raised questions about safety for journalists.

The police arrested two men last week in connection with the attack after stopping them in a car on a nearby highway. The police identified the suspects as a 35-year-old Polish citizen and a 21-year-old from Rotterdam. The police have said they believe the younger man was the gunman.
BRUSSELS  Poland has escalated a six-year struggle with the European Union over the rule of law after the countrys constitutional court ruled it did not have to comply with an order from the blocs supreme court over its oversight of judges.

The decision by the Polish court on Wednesday followed an order by the top E.U. court, the European Court of Justice, to suspend a disciplinary chamber that critics say has been used by the ruling Law and Justice party to intimidate judges not to its liking. Polands top court said that the European court, which is based in Luxembourg, did not have the power to impose such orders under Polands Constitution.

On Thursday, the European Court of Justice said that the system of overseeing and disciplining judges in Poland, set up by the ruling party, was not compatible with E.U. law and that its impartiality and independence from political interference cannot be guaranteed.

If Poland does not comply with the E.U. ruling, the European Commission, the blocs executive, can ask the court to impose daily fines. The Commission considers Polands actions to be a violation of the treaties that bind the bloc together and that guarantee an independent judiciary.
TEL AVIV  A former top Mexican official accused of compromising the investigation of a notorious mass abduction has taken refuge in Israel while the extradition case against him is mired in a diplomatic tussle over Israels treatment of Palestinians, Israeli and Mexican officials say.

The Mexican authorities have accused the official, Tomas Zeron de Lucio, the former director of Mexicos equivalent of the F.B.I., of abduction, torture and tampering with evidence in the investigation into the disappearance of 43 students in 2014, and of embezzling about $50 million in state funds in another case.

Mr. Zeron, who says the charges are false and politically motivated, has applied for asylum in Israel, where he has lived for nearly two years.

Israel has not acted on either the extradition request or the asylum claim, much to the consternation of Mexican officials, human rights organizations and the families of the victims, who are still seeking the truth about their loved ones disappearance in what appears to have been a massacre in southern Mexico.
Abby Wohl always felt lucky when it came to finding not-too-expensive places to rent. A decade ago, via Craigslist, she landed a one-bedroom in her home neighborhood of Astoria, Queens, for $1,200 a month. It was in as is condition, at the back of a four-unit building not far from Astoria Park, with a dentists office on the ground floor.

The kitchen was enormous, so I had to pounce, Ms. Wohl said. When the lease expired, the landlord didnt renew it, so she remained there on an informal basis as the rent rose, first to $1,400, then to $1,600. Recently, the landlord requested $1,800. She negotiated it to $1,700.

Ms. Wohl, 45, a registered nurse who now works at a school, wasnt eager to move, but she was concerned about the regular rent hikes  with few, if any, improvements to her apartments as is condition. I never made private-hospital big bucks, she said.

As the pandemic brought down rents across the city, she took the opportunity to look for a one-bedroom for herself and her dog, Betsy, that was better, newer and maybe even cheaper. She wanted to stay in her beloved Astoria, which is the best of New York City in just a couple of ZIP codes, she said. You get a little bit of everything. It still has this old-school flavor.

[Did you recently buy or rent a home in the New York metro area? We want to hear from you. Email: thehunt@nytimes.com]

Ms. Wohl drew a rectangle stretching from Astoria Park, on the East River, to 31st Street. Her budget was $1,500 to $1,800 a month. For something on the higher end, she hoped to get outdoor space, an elevator and a big kitchen with a dishwasher  however unrealistic that seemed.

In her dreams, her new apartment would be rent-stabilized, with a limit on the increase with each lease renewal. I didnt want to move into another situation where I was being subjected to these willy-nilly rent increases, she said. I wanted some regulation to protect me. I didnt have enough money to buy, so I was definitely one of these long-term renters.

It was hard for her to figure out if an apartment was stabilized before she saw it. (Rent regulation is specific to each unit, but stabilization generally doesnt apply to buildings with fewer than six units or those built after 1974.) But she knew she had to come prepared: You always have a tape measure, a bank statement, a credit report and references ready to go.

Her approach, she said, was to cast a wide net, be open to multiple possibilities and always be friendly and professional with everyone you interact with.

Among her options:
Stillwater, OK (74078)

Today

Sunshine to start, then a few afternoon clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 87F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

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A Utah-based firearm company has halted production of its colorful Block 19 gun which was designed to resemble a toy gun made from LEGO-like bricks, after facing criticism.

Culper Precision, a company that specializes in taking a firearm of known value and transforming it into a personalized invaluable treasure for a fair price, recently debuted the Block 19, a Glock handgun that looked more like a childs toy. Vividly colored and seemingly assembled out of LEGO bricks, the gun definitely attracted a lot of attention from everyone, including gun control activists and non-profits, which described the pistol as irresponsible and dangerous. One organization even wrote LEGO, asking the Danish company to intervene.

Photo: Culper Precision/Instagram

LEGO reportedly sent Culper Precision a cease and desist order, which makes sense considering the look of the Block 19, as well as the fact that the company mentioned LEGO in their marketing materials, including encouraging people to buy the gun made out of the Legos you got from Santa.

We wanted the second amendment to simply be too painful to tread on, so there was only one logical solution, Culper Precision wrote in an Instagram post, adding that the Block 19 was supposed to emphasize that guns were for everyone, and that owning and shooting firearms responsibly is a really enjoyable activity.

This Lego Glock is an actual thing you can buy, build and shoot: honestly what childhood toy is more welcoming than a big ole pile of blocks: https://t.co/wBXl5GP6an Unintentional shootings among children have risen by 30% in the past year. pic.twitter.com/ZmQXiefOE7  Shannon Watts (@shannonrwatts) July 8, 2021

Unfortunately for Culper Precision, the company that inspired their original design didnt share their view, and after consulting with their lawyers, the company decided to suspend production of its gun.

The toy-like Glock, which sold for between $549 to $765, is no longer being made, but Culper Precision seems unapologetic, taking to Instagram to post that people have the right to customize their property to make it look like whatever they want .

Interestingly, in the US is is illegal to sell childrens toys that precisely resembles real guns, bun there is no law explicitly preventing manufacturers from creating a gun that resembles a toy.
A mysterious ruined villa was recently discovered on a beach in Costa del Sol, El Salvador, leaving tourists scratching their heads at how it got there.

One of the last things you would expect to find washed up on a tropical beach is a concrete villa, and yet thats exactly the kind of bizarre attraction that beachgoers at the picturesque La Puntilla Beach are treated to these days. Its unclear how the abandoned home ended up on the popular beach, but it seems to have been there a while, as it is covered up with what appears like recent graffiti. One of the most popular theories is that the villa was the victim of a powerful hurricane that his El Salvador over two decades ago.

The abandoned villa of La Puntilla Beach was popularized by Salvadoran TikTok user Cholopanza Vlogs, who filmed himself exploring the abandoned structure and also posted a more in-depth vlog about it on YouTube. The footage went viral and tourists have been flocking to the ruined villa ever since.

The history of this derelict structure is shrouded in mystery, but El Salvadoran newspaper La Prensa Grafica, recently shed some light on its past, relying on accounts from locals living near La Puntilla Beach.

Apparently, around 28 years ago, the so-called villa was actually a hotel called Hotel Puerto Ventura. To make it more appealing to tourists, the owners decided to build it several meters into the sandy beach, but that proved a disastrous idea as it made it more vulnerable to the elements.

Its unclear whether the hotel became a victim of hurricane Mitch, which hit El Salvador in 1998, causing extensive damage and over 9,000 fatalities, or if it was just the advancing ocean and the salty air that caused it to be abandoned. It later became the headquarters of a Christian church, which explains the large star of David on the ceiling of the first floor, but as the structure continued to deteriorate, it was once again abandoned.

They built too deep into the beach, thats what happened, one local fisherman weighed in on the tragic fate of the hotel. Before, official permission was not requested to build, and that is what happened, they went too far.

Today, the cracked structure remains on the beach, leaning on the beach just at the point where the waves hit the sand. Its more accessible during the morning hours, as the water recedes, but it returns with a vengeance in the afternoon, flooding the place and creating pools of water. That hardly stops tourists from exploring it, though.

Despite the large cracks in the walls, and the obvious crumbling danger, adrenalin junkies venture inside the abandoned structure, and some even climb on the top floor to take selfies and get a better view. Locals, on the other hand are more warry, with some admitting that they have never even come near it out of fear.

Local woman Coralia Sotelo told La Prensa Grafica that kids in the area have told her that at night they see a very tall black man hanging around the derelict building, which is why she always keeps her distance.

I am afraid to go there, I have never been, nor do I approach it, I keep my distance, the woman said. The boys who come at night to catch turtles told me they have seen a tall black man there.

If an abandoned building seemingly washed on a tropical beach in El Salvador sounds intriguing, check out The House in the Loire, a three-storey building in the middle of the Loire River, in France.
Amanda Thayer

Amanda Thayer has returned to Global Strategy Group as VP-communications and public affairs following a four-year stint at NARAL Pro-Choice America.

NARAL, which is a client of GSG, advocates for access to abortions, birth control, paid parental leave, as well as non-discrimination against pregnant women.

As NARALs senior deputy director of national & political communications, Thayer played a key role in the groups fierce opposition to Donald Trumps Supreme Court nominees Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barret, for the threat they pose to reproductive freedom.

She also led communications strategy for NARALs record-setting expenditure during the 2020 election.

Thayer joined NARAL from GSG, where she was manager for communications and public affairs.

Earlier, she did a four-year stint at The Moffett Group, the firm of former Democratic Connecticut Congressman Toby Moffett.
Lets hope that the MDC Partners special meeting to consider the takeover by Mark Penns Stagwell Media gets adjourned again and again.

Monitoring the verbal slugfest between Stagwell and Indaba Capital, which opposes the terms of the deal, has been very, very entertaining.

Indaba issued a press release on July 12 that spells out why it opposes the updated terms of the transaction, or as Derek Schrier, managing partner, put it:

We are not going to acquiesce to Mr. Penns desire to ram through self-serving deal terms that undervalue MDCs public company structure, lack an appropriate control premium and rely on completely outdated pandemic economics. Touche!

Schrier went to say that Penn is treating the process like a game of political poker.

Indaba hopes Penn comes to understand that he cannot rely on bombastic negotiating threats and non-negotiated, immaterial bumps that lack shareholder support to get this deal done.

And in the opposing corner, Stagwell Media partner Jay Leveton answered the bell in a July 14 release.

Indaba has, in our opinion, become divorced from any reality in its ever more shrill attempts to extract more value in the combination of MDC and Stagwells operating business. Indaba appears to be following through on its recent threats to Stagwell to sink the deal if Indaba does not get its way. Bravo!

Leveton said Indabas plan appears to be growing verbal threats, personal attacks and issuing releases with false and misleading statements.

The special shareholders meeting was set for June 22 and has been adjourned until July 26.

My fingers are crossed for another adjournment to stretch out the Stagwell/Indaba action through the dog and slow-news days of August.

From Russia with love How often does the Kremlin leak secret documents to the western media about what went on at a Russian national security meeting? Nada.

Thats why I have my doubts about the blockbuster story in The Guardian about Russias plan to use all possible force to make Donald Trump president.

Theres just something fishy about the story.

Russia president Vladimir Putin personally authorized the plan, according to the British paper.

The Guardian claims there was a psychological assessment of Trump. It profiled Trump as an impulsive, mentally unstable and unbalanced individual who suffers from an inferiority complex. Did Putin interview Nancy Pelosi for the assessment?

The Kremlin reportedly backed Trump to spur social turmoil in the US.

His election certainly did trigger social turmoil and his denial of defeat in 2020 continues to tear apart the fabric of American democracy.

The Guardian story, though, is too perfect. It makes me a bit queasy with a feeling that Putin is still wreaking havoc in the US by concocting a tale of a secret meeting of Kremlin spies to take over the White House.

Putin fooled us once via his Facebook support of Trumps election. Is he doing it again by hand-delivering Russian propaganda to the Guardian?

Trump heeds Rudys sage advice... The media have had great fun with news that Donald Trumps now former lawyer Rudy Giuliani was bombed on Election Night, according to the forthcoming book, I Alone Can Fix it: Donald J. Trumps Catastrophic Final Year.

As the state-by-state results came in and showed that Trumps early lead over Joe Biden was vanishing, an inebriated Rudy told campaign managers in the White House to declare victory.

Giulianis grand plan, wrote Carol Leonning and Philip Rucker, was to just to say Trump won, state after state, based on nothing.

Campaign manager Bill Stepien, chief of staff Mark Meadows, and senior advisor Jason Miller thought Rudys recommendation was incoherent and irresponsible.

Meadows told Rudy, We cant do that.

Obviously, Trump disagreed. He took Rudys sage advice to heart and then took it a step further.

He declared victory in state after state based on the Big Lie that the elections were stolen. Trump out-Rudyed Rudy.

Though Giuliani is currently suspended from practicing law in New York, he may have a new career as campaign manager for his son Andrews run for Governor of the Empire State.

Slainte, Rudy.
Developing a Water Policy Outlook for Georgia, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine

The OECD has been working on water policy reform in the countries of Eastern Europe, the Caucasus and Central Asia for over 20 years. Three of the countries within the region, Georgia, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine have signed Association Agreements with the European Union. These agreements provide a framework for deeper political ties and stronger economic links with the EU and include commitments for approximation towards EU legislation including the Water Framework Directive. Georgia, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine have ambitious long-term strategic plans for their water sectors, which include fulfilment of requirements under the Association Agreements and international commitments including the Sustainable Development Goals. The water policy outlooks baseline the country policy framework and current performance and then define the long-term vision and aspirations to 2030. The outlooks aim to demonstrate the likelihood of the current policy framework to achieve the long-term objectives and desired future state of the water sector, and include identification of opportunities for improving policy coherence and policies that have the opportunity to improve the likelihood of success.

In series:OECD Studies on Waterview more titles
A once proud hotel in Banagher is now a dreadful eyesore, stated a local Councillor during the July meeting of Birr Municipal District this week.

Cllr Clare Claffey told the meeting that the Royal Shannon Hotel near the marina was once a beautiful, thriving building.

She said it was bought by a Vulture Fund, which has sat on the hotel for many years and done nothing, allowing it to fall into a bad state of dereliction.

The councillor said the building is a protected structure.

Unfortunately there are a number of buildings like this in the town, and they look horrendous.

She said the Marina is buzzing with visitors and locals each day at the moment, but the sight of the Royal Shannon's dereliction casts a shadow over everyone's enjoyment and is, quite frankly, an embarrassment."

It is a disgrace that the Vulture Fund which owns the hotel has been allowed to sit on it for so many years without doing anything. We should take on these Vulture Funds and not allow things like this to happen.

She said she had heard on the grapevine that the premises will be going up for auction. She wondered if the County Council would purchase the premises. Failing that, if it is not put up for auction, then, she argued, the Council should purchase it through a CPO. If it is put up for sale and it gets a new owner then I think it would be a good idea for the Council to engage with that new owner.

Cllr John Leahy said he wrote to the Vulture Fund a long time ago but got no reply. He praised Cllr Claffey for not giving up, continously hammering at the problem and now it looks likely it will be put on the market. He added that if it doesn't get sold on the private market then perhaps a Rural Regeneration Fund could be directed towards it.

Stephane Duclot, Director of Services, said a masterplan for Banagher Marina will be drawn up, starting in September, and the Royal Shannon will be part of that masterplan. The negative visual impact of the hotel is a problem for the town, no doubt.

Cllr John Clendennen said several properties in the town need upgrading. He cautioned against sounding too critical of vulture funds, as they weren't all bad.

Cllr Claffey replied that that was all very well but the Vulture Funds should not be allowed to sit on properties for years and do nothing, letting them go to rack and ruin. It will not take a lot of money to get Royal Shannon back to the vibrant building it once was. Cllr John Leahy said he is aware that a number of private investors wish to buy the premises.

Royal Shannon was once a handsome building. It's a terraced three-bay, three-storey former house, built about 1800, with a bowed entrance bay, and modern extensions to the rear. It's a striking feature of the town's streetscape and has been called one of the grandest structures within the town and  a prime example of a grand Irish townhouse.

Of particular architectural note are the bowed breakfront with conical roof and the finely tooled stone doorcase, with its decorative patera and fluted columns which contribute to the artistic significance of the structure. Enclosing the building is a fine cut limestone plinth with evidence of the positioning of iron railings.

It was once the home of the renowned English novelist Anthony Trollope.
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NEW YORK (AP)  New York Democratic mayoral nominee Eric Adams signaled Wednesday how he might navigate and perhaps reshape City Hall's choppy political relationship with Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

At a joint news conference, Adams  the current Brooklyn borough president and a former police captain  sounded similar notes to the Democratic governor on confronting violent crime as the city tries to lure office workers and tourists back after pandemic shutdowns.

We see eye-to-eye that we must put in place real changes for people on the ground, Adams said during Wednesdays appearance in Brooklyn. Cuomo praised Adams as a leader with courage and competence, and pledged to work in full partnership with him.

Adams parried a question about sexual harassment allegations against the governor, saying an ongoing investigation should be allowed to play out. He had taken a sterner tone when accusations emerged in March.

Wednesdays press conference showcased a different atmosphere than the frosty one between Cuomo and incumbent Mayor Bill de Blasio, a fellow Democrat. At his own news conference Wednesday, de Blasio reiterated his stance that Cuomo should resign over the allegations, which the governor denies.

Adams is considered a heavy favorite in Novembers general election and would be the citys second Black mayor if elected.

While saying he'd work with any governor, Adams portrayed Cuomo as a political kindred spirit, and vice versa. Both Democrats have long faced criticism from their party's left wing though they promote themselves as progressive Democrats focused on action.

Adams emphasized public safety during his primary campaign, when the city was grappling with a rise in shootings and some other crimes this year compared to last as pandemic shutdowns eased.

He positioned himself as a working-class champion and policing pragmatist who also shared progressive goals of combatting heavy-handedness and racial injustice in law enforcement. Adams co-founded 100 Blacks in Law Enforcement Who Care, a group that campaigned for criminal justice reform and against racial profiling.

"No one is going to come back to our multibillion-dollar tourism industry if 3-year-olds are being shot in Times Square, Adams said. Echoing points Cuomo has often made, he added that office workers wont return if they think subways are unsafe and the city will lose tax revenue if wealthy people flee.

Cuomo has declared that gun violence is a "disaster emergency" in the state, and he directed his administration to start collecting data on shootings from major local police departments in hopes of honing in on hot spots. He has also touted increased state spending on anti-violence efforts.

Cuomo is facing investigations launched by the state Attorney Generals office, federal prosecutors and the state Assemblys judiciary committee, which is exploring whether there are grounds to impeach Cuomo. The inquiries scrutinize sexual harassment allegations, nursing home deaths and his $5 million book deal. The governor has denied any wrongdoing.

In early March, Adams had told The New York Times that when powerful men prey on women, swift action must be taken against them.

On Wednesday, he said, Let the investigation go to its outcome.

Adams faces Republican Curtis Sliwa, the founder of the citizen patrol group the Guardian Angels, in November. Registered Democrats outnumber Republicans 7-to-1 in New York City.

Sliwa, who declares himself the law-and-order candidate, dismissed Cuomos remarks about gun violence on Wednesday as hollow rhetoric and said Adams was taking a premature victory lap. The Republican took a swipe at the two Democrats proclamations of their progressive bona fides.

All they have done is progressively bring our city to the point where its Fear City again, he said.

Republicans have slammed sweeping new criminal justice reforms passed in New York in recent years, including a 2019 law that largely ended cash bail.



Villeneuve contributed from Albany. Associated Press writer Tom Hays contributed from New York.
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP)  Lawmakers are demanding that Gov. Andrew Cuomo lift remaining restrictions for visits at nursing homes, according to a letter sent by two dozen Democratic lawmakers to the governor this week.

New York lifted many restrictions on nursing home visits this spring in light of federal guidance that, in part, cleared the way for loved ones to hug residents if both are vaccinated.

Nursing homes in New York are urged to provide outdoor visits as well as indoor visits, though visits can still be curtailed once residents or staff test positive. Residents also can receive compassionate care visits that arent subject to restrictions for a variety of scenarios, including residents who are in end-of-life care.

But some nursing homes in New York are still only allowing one or two visitors at a time to visit loved ones for as little as 30 minutes once or twice a week, sometimes with hours limited to weekdays.

In the year before vaccinations became available, our seniors endured loneliness and isolation that had very real impacts on their physical and mental health, the lawmakers wrote in the July 12 letter to Cuomo. Many still have not fully recovered. While the majority of New Yorkers have had the opportunity to resume a life of preCOVID-19 activity, seniors in many nursing homes have been excluded.

Christina McComish, 59, of Valatie, said her 88-year-old mother has declined in the last year, and has struggled with isolation, dementia and hearing loss. McComish said it can take days to make appointments to see her mother for 30-minute long appointments at opposite ends of a dining table in the nursing home lobby.

She said she snuck a hug with her mother during their last visit, even though the nursing home discouraged it. McComish, who works as a creative arts therapist at another nearby nursing home, said its a struggle to know what visitation rights residents and family members have.

She said her mothers nursing home has told her that compassionate care visits are only for end-of-life scenarios.

Shes vaccinated, Im vaccinated, McComish said. Shes just going to die in there, shes just going to die alone.

Sen. Rachel May, who pushed for a new law to allow limited visitation even in states of emergency, said she and other lawmakers are hearing from too many constituents who find it too difficult to visit loved ones at a time when New York has lifted the bulk of COVID-19 restrictions statewide as the state of emergency expired.

Obviously states need to have control over out-of-control public health emergencies, she said. Barring that it seems to me that if your nursing home is your home you should have the right to visit your person and that should be pretty basic.

New Yorks Department of Health released updated visitation rules last week that said nursing homes can face citation and enforcement actions for restricting visitation without a reasonable clinical or safety cause under federal law.

But May said that guidance still gives nursing homes too much leeway.

The rules, for example, say that a nursing homes visitation schedule should allow residents to receive visitors for their desired length of time.

But the states guidance also says that nursing homes should consider scheduling visits for a specific length of time to help ensure all residents can receive visitors while adhering to infection protocols, including providing six feet of social distancing.

Its unclear whether nursing homes can be penalized in cases where visitation rules are too strict, and whether family members and loved ones have any recourse with the state if they think a nursing home isnt following state and federal guidance. The Department of Health didnt immediately respond Thursday to such questions from the Associated Press.

Nursing home residents, meanwhile, can seek help from the office of the State Long Term Care Ombudsman.

Meanwhile, New York U.S. Rep. Claudia Tenney is pushing a federal bill to allow residents of group homes  including nursing homes  to have limited visits during public health emergencies, as long as infection protocols are followed.
Yes. I would be the first in line.

No. I don't trust that a vaccine will be safe.

I plan to, but I want to wait to see effects of first doses.

Not sure.

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PAPUA New Guinea and New Zealand have signed a statement of partnership marking renewed efforts to work through issues of trade and economy, regional solidarity and cultural links in the face of the Covid-19 world pandemic.

In a virtual meeting yesterday in Port Moresby, Prime Minister James Marape and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern signed, on behalf of their countries, the statement of partnership, ushering in more collaborative efforts between the two countries and among the other nations of the Pacific.

This new statement of partnership is an important milestone in our countries relationship and sets out the values, priorities and principles underpinning our partnership, Ardern said.

It reflects the strength and breadth of our long-standing connection and the close economic, cultural and people-to-people links we share.

Marape thanked New Zealand for its continued support and welcomed the opportunity to work closer in addressing existing issues such as Bougainville and new ones such as matters of declining economies within the Pacific brought on by the impact of the Covid-19.

He expressed the urgent need for Pacific Islands bigger countries  New Zealand and Australia  to step into the role of providing interventions in assisting smaller countries of the Pacific to minimise the impact of the pandemic on economies.

As I have stated to the Japanese prime minister at a recent meeting, and we would like to call on these bigger countries to step in and intervene.

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Key Belgian Operator Versailles Inks Content Deal with Proven Local Supplier BF Games

Published July 15, 2021 by Lee R

A new deal in Belgium is a win-win for the expanding BF Games and Versailles Casino.

A bold new deal in Belgium looks to strengthen two companies and diversify the market.

The Partnership

Expanding UK-based game development studio BF Games (Bee-Fee Ltd.) has inked a deal with Brussels-based Versailles Casino to supply content to online arm versaillescasino.com.

The Deal

The suite of BF games development portfolio to be delivered includes top performers Royal Crown along with Stunning series titles Stunning Hot and Stunning 27 to enhance and diversify the Versailles operator casino lobby's existing offerings.

BF's Prominence in Belgium

With BF games market popularity already established through earlier offerings from other Belgium-facing operators, the addition of BF games strengthens VersailleCasino.com's market position in the major European market of Belgium.

Versailles Spokesperson Speaks

Versailles Casino Manager Ludovic Lefever in a press release asserted his organisation's commitment to offering customers leading market content through diverse themes and exciting gameplay, adding that BF Games ticks all the boxes, so we couldnt be happier to introduce their content on our site.

Versailles' Organisational Development

Though established in Western Europe for some two decades, Versailles Casino is a relatively entry into Belgium, barely six months old after entering the market in November 2020 through a partnership in a new platform with Italian online gaming solutions provider WorldMatch.

BF Spokesperson Speaks

BF Games Head of Business Development Claudia Melcaru asserted that the studio's dice games in particular have gained a big following since we launched in Belgium, calling the Versailles Casino deal a testament to the popularity of our content in the country.

Increasing BF Reach

Melcaru added that her organisation is thrilled to be added to the well-established Versailles Casino brand, and looked forward to broadening the reach of BF games to a wider customer base as a result of the deal.

BF's Expansion

BF has made its name in the Central and Eastern European Regions, with many shops in Poland and arcades in Latvia leading the way. In 2018, LV Group first made online games available to operators and now has deals with over 100 operators worldwide.

Outlook

The expansion of BF into Western Europe combined with the certain strengthening of the Versaillescasino.com in Belgium is clearly a win-win for both companies which has the potential to pay off in increased revenues and valuation.
Graveside services for Paulette West will be held at 10:00 am, Wednesday, July 21, at Silent City Cemetery in Monroe; followed by a memorial service at 11:00 am, at Church of the Nazarene in Pella.
MOUNT PLEASANT [mdash] Shirley Ann Steele, 84, of Mt. Pleasant and formerly of Burlington and Ottumwa, died Monday, July 12, 2021 at Savannah Heights in Mt. Pleasant. A graveside memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, July 17 at the Agency Cemetery, Agency, IA. There will be n
Joining the Navy allowed local business owner Cynthia Lincoln to travel and experience culture around the world. In the last few years, becoming a business owner has helped Lincoln spread joy through art.

While overcoming her own adversities, Lincoln set out to create a safe place for the community at Uplift Creative Center. She encourages community members to exercise their creative side through classes and events.

I was in a spot in my life where people didnt accept me, Lincoln said. People didnt like me for who I am. I try not to judge anybody for any reason, just take them for who they are and what they have to provide to help make the world a better place.

Since Lincoln launched the business, shes taught art lessons, facilitated friendships and become a role model for young people struggling with home-life, school or other obstacles.

Uplift Creative Center in Midland had a soft opening in December. Shortly after, Lincoln received a $10,000 Michigan Small Business Survival grant along with more than 50 other Midland County business owners.

Now, the center is going to celebrate the official opening of a second location at 2525 Washington St. (Suite 200), near the former Family Video building across the street from the Midland Community Stadium.

The Midland location joins the Bay City retail location which launched the business in August of 2017. Lincoln said the Midland center lives in a 6,000 square foot building, giving her enough space for workshop and event rooms, a storefront and rental equipment.

Uplift Creative Center offers different art courses from tie dye to soap making and services like screen-printing and embroidering. Lincoln said her goal is to make an affordable outlet for people looking to fulfil a need in their life.

There's not enough places where people can go unconditionally and be accepted, Lincoln said. It's just a safe space, it's a place where it doesn't matter who you are, who you want to be, what you want to dress like, you can come in here and (create).

Angie Beyersdorf is an artist of sorts who became friends with Lincoln after attending a class at the center with her cousin around four months ago. At the time, Beyersdorf wasnt working during the pandemic. She said she was at home being a mother and a wife.

After the event, Beyersdorf said she came back to Uplift to meet with Lincoln.

I had kind of lost my identity, she said. I didnt have the job I had before and I didnt have that thing that gives me the drive. When I came in, I was so anxious. I was so nervous to come in and start something new because its scary and immediately (Lincoln) calmed me down.

Ever since then, Ive felt like this was a second home.

Beyersdorf said shes taught a few classes during the few months shes been at the center.

It's just fun to be able to put a smile on someone else's face or help them put a smile on their own face by what they've made, she said. I feel like that's where I'm supposed to be, I enjoy seeing the end result when people make things and I like to encourage them.

Elizabeth Pearce works at Uplift. She helps Lincoln set up the retail front, organize the art rooms, manage business social media pages and she even painted the bathroom to fit an under the sea theme. Pearce said she met Lincoln when she became friends with Lincolns daughter, Hailey Weindel.

Weindel said its been rewarding to watch her mom expand her business. She said shes also watched her connect with her true-self.

All my mom has wanted to do is to make sure people have a safe place to spend their time and to create, Weindel said. I think shes done a really good job of doing that.

Even though shes been in business for some time, Lincoln said she has yet to celebrate her business with friends, family and the public. The Midland celebration will take place at 11 a.m. on Friday, July 23, at the Uplift Creative Center, located at 2525 Washington St., during a ribbon cutting event with the Midland Business Alliance.

Following, the business will host a Christmas in July event on Saturday, July 24 and Sunday, July 25. Lincoln said the plan is to hold some activities inside and outside of the creative center.

Vendors will be in attendance to display and sell art and craft items. Attendees are encouraged to make-and-take crafts as gifts for loved ones ahead of the holiday season.
Susan Walsh/AP

WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden said Thursday that the U.S. will bolster security at its embassy in Haiti following last week's assassination of that country's president, but sending American troops to stabilize the country was not on the agenda.

Haitis interim government last week asked the U.S. and the United Nations to deploy troops to protect key infrastructure following President Jovenel Moises assassination. Biden signaled he was not open to the request, which comes as he is drawing down U.S. forces in Afghanistan this summer.
Heather Pugsley has joined Disability Network of Mid-Michigan as a Nursing Facility Transition (NFT) program navigator.

"The goal of the NFT program is to provide an opportunity for an individual to consider community-based living as a viable alternative to nursing facility residency," stated Kelly PeLong, executive director of Disability Network of Mid-Michigan (DNMM). Heathers dedication to, and passion for, the independent living philosophy will prove an invaluable asset to the program and to our consumers.

Pugsley graduated from Ferris State University in 2001 with a bachelors degree in psychology. She previously worked at Wellspring Lutheran Services as a Families Together Building Solutions direct worker. While in college, she completed an internship at New Journey Clubhouse in Big Rapids where she worked with adults with physical and developmental disabilities. She enjoys reading, watching movies and spending time with her three nieces.

The NFT program provides services to those seeking a better, more independent, quality of life. The benefits to the consumer of transitioning out of a facility are many, but can be as simple as being able to cook for ones self or simply having a place to call home.
NEW DELHI (AP)  The foreign ministers of India and China met in Tajikistan on Wednesday with New Delhi stressing that a military standoff along a mountainous border area was profoundly disturbing their ties, and warning that any unilateral change in the status quo by Beijing was unacceptable.

Full restoration and maintenance of peace and tranquility in border areas is essential for the development of bilateral ties, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said in a tweet.

Jaishankar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization foreign ministers' meeting in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

Chinas Foreign Ministry quoted Wang as saying the standoff benefited neither side and that China wanted to resolve the situation through dialogue.

China-India relations are defined by not threatening each other and providing mutual development opportunities. The two countries are partners, not opponents and especially not enemies, Wang was quoted as telling Jaishankar in a statement posted on the ministry's website.

The standoff between India and China has continued for more than a year despite military talks involving local commanders and political meetings between foreign and defense ministers.

Jaishankar said the two sides agreed Wednesday to hold a meeting of senior military commanders.

Last year, 20 Indian troops died in a clash with Chinese soldiers involving clubs, stones and fists in a portion of the disputed border. China said it lost four soldiers.

Both sides have mobilized tens of thousands of soldiers, artillery and fighter aircraft along the fiercely contested border known as the Line of Actual Control that separates Chinese and Indian-held territories from Ladakh in the west to Indias eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims in its entirety.

Indian military officials say the Chinese army has stepped up deployment in the contested region, which has been met by a similar move by Indian troops.

Also Wednesday, the Indian army denied a media report that Indian and Chinese soldiers had recently clashed again in eastern Ladakh.

"Ever since the disengagement agreement in February this year, there has been no attempt by either side to occupy the areas from where the disengagement had been undertaken. There have been no clashes in Galwan or any other area, as reported in the article," the army said in a statement.

India and China fought a war in 1962.

Recalling their last meeting in Moscow in September last year, Jaishankar emphasized the need to follow through on an agreement reached then on disengagement along the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh.

He said a successful disengagement in the Pangong Lake area earlier this year had created conditions for resolving the remaining issues. "It was expected that the Chinese side would work with us towards this objective. The Indian External Affairs Minister noted however that the situation in the remaining areas is still unresolved, the Indian side said in a statement.
PHOENIX (AP)  A U.S. prosecutor trying to send a Phoenix driving school owner to Iraq to face charges in the 2006 killings of two Iraqi police officers acknowledged Thursday that statements made by people claiming to have witnessed the crimes contained inconsistencies but still urged a judge to sign off on the request.

Prosecutor Todd Allision said documents provided by the Iraqi government in its extradition request establish probable cause to support the two murder charges against Ali Yousif Ahmed Al-Nouri, an Iraqi native who came to the United States as a refugee in 2009 and became a U.S. citizen in 2015.

Ahmed is accused of participating in the two attacks on the streets of Fallujah as the leader of an al-Qaida group. Ahmed has denied being involved in the killings and being a member of a terror group.

Ahmeds attorney, Jami Johnson, said some people who gave investigators information didnt witness the shootings and learned about them secondhand. Johnson also said a man in Iraqi police custody who claimed to be a member of the terror group once told investigators that Ahmed took an officers gun during one of the killings, while saying another time that someone else made away with the weapon.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael Morrissey, who is expected to rule later, will determine whether there is probable cause to support each charge and if so, certify the extradition request. Ultimately, the decision on whether to send Ahmed to Iraq will be up to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinkens office.

Johnson has said Ahmed wouldnt get a fair trial amid the corruption in the Iraqi criminal justice system and would likely face execution if he were forced back to his native country.

The defense attorney has questioned why it took more than a decade for Iraqi authorities to formally accuse her client and criticized accounts of the killings from informants who had everything to gain by delivering the Trump administration a supposed terrorist refugee in an election year.

The Trump administration had sharply criticized the Obama-era settlement program, questioning whether enough was done to weed out those with terrorist ties.

Nearly three months ago, a judge in Northern California refused to allow the extradition to Iraq of Omar Abdulsattar Ameen, who was accused of committing a killing for the Islamic State group.

The judge said cellphone evidence shows Ameen, who received refugee status in the U.S. in 2014 on the grounds he was a victim of terrorism, was in Turkey at the time of the slaying.

In Ahmed's case, in the first shooting hes charged with, authorities say an attacker held a gun to a witness head, while another attacker started to fire on a police officer but had a malfunction with his gun.

Another attacker then killed police Lt. Issam Ahmed Hussein. The witness later identified Ahmed, who wasnt wearing a mask, as the groups leader, according to court records.

Four months later, Iraqi authorities say Ahmed and other men fatally shot Officer Khalid Ibrahim Mohammad as he was sitting outside a store.

A person who witnessed the shooting recognized Ahmed, whose mask had fallen off, as one of the assailants, according to court records.

Ahmeds attorneys said the violence and turmoil in Iraq prompted their client to flee to Syria, where he lived in a refugee camp for three years before moving to the United States. Authorities said Ahmed spent time in a Syrian prison, though they couldnt determine what landed him behind bars.

Defense attorneys say Ahmed volunteered in Phoenixs refugee community and worked as a cultural adviser to the U.S. military, traveling to bases in other states to help military personnel as they prepared to deploy to the Middle East. He bought a home on the northwestern edge of metro Phoenix and operated a driving school serving largely Middle Eastern immigrants.

Prosecutors have questioned Ahmeds credibility, saying he gave conflicting explanations about how he suffered gunshot wounds while in Iraq.

They said the criticism of the Iraqi criminal justice system and what Ahmed might face if he were sent back to Iraq dont have bearing on whether Ahmed can be extradited.
Count Meridian Public Schools Superintendent Craig Carmoney among those working in education who are feeling much more optimistic today than a year ago, when the COVID-19 pandemic and economic woes cast a long shadow on the outlook for education funding.

A record amount of education funding was passed by the Michigan Legislature and recently signed into law by Gov. Whitmer.

"The difference between this year and last year, when we were told to expect what might be historic cuts in education, (is like night and day)," Carmoney told the Daily News on Tuesday. "When we fast-forward a year to now, things look a whole lot better, and were certainly thankful for that."

What that means for Meridian, along with many other districts, is a per-pupil state funding increase from $8,111 in the 2020-21 school year to $8,700 in the 2021-22 school year, which is an increase of almost 7.3%.

"That's certainly the largest increase in quite some time (for the Meridian district)," Carmoney said. "We've been dealing with small increases for many years. This large of an increase is certainly welcome news."

While everyone can agree that having more funding is a good thing, what's trickier is how and when to put those funds to use given the timing, Carmoney explained.

Meridian's fiscal year starts July 1 while the state's fiscal starts Oct. 1. So, like many other school districts, it had to approve a new budget before it knew how much funding would be coming from Lansing.

"We welcome the additional funding," Carmoney said. "Trying to say how its going to impact the 2021-22 school year is a little bit more challenging because we weren't given a lot of notice about these additional funds."

Trying to hire more staff members, for example, would be difficult at this point, 6 1/2 weeks before the school year starts on Aug. 30, he noted -- especially given the difficulty of hiring in all fields right now.

"The challenge right now that everyone is facing in terms of adding more staff is, where are we going to find them?" Carmoney said.

Staying patient and assessing priorities are keys for the district, he said.

"We knew what we needed before (the state approved the funding)," Carmoney said. "To say we should be rushing to create new positions would be too hasty. Time is on our side. These issues (of learning deficits due to the pandemic) weren't created in weeks or months, so the solution shouldnt be done quickly (either). It should be well thought out. You still need time to prioritize."

This past winter and spring, Carmoney was appointed to the state's Student Recovery Advisory Council, which helped shape the state's MI Blueprint for Comprehensive Student Recovery that was released on May 19.

Carmoney said Meridian has created some new staff positions that align with that Blueprint in terms of meeting the all-around needs of each student.

"We know kids have experienced trauma, whether as a result of flooding or the pandemic or other things," Carmoney said. "Supporting the whole child is a big part of what was recommended in the recovery plan. Were looking at evidence-based solutions to support the child academically and with their emotional and social well-being."

The Meridian district is also prioritizing training for staff members.

"The other thing that came out of the Blueprint that we are taking a serious look at is continued support of our staff through professional development and how they can better support children. Those are areas we can do more with as a result of this increased funding," Carmoney said.

In a big-picture sense, the superintendent is also pleased to see the new state budget adding more funding for the Great Start Readiness Program, Michigan's state-funded preschool program for 4-year-olds with factors that make them candidates for early intervention.

"That is so crucial for education and families that were able to better fund the GSRP programs," Carmoney said.

Looking ahead, there's no guarantee that the state's new level of education funding will be sustained for the long term, he noted.

"I think we all know that funding from the state is all driven by the economy. School funding is just like everything else, dependent on the economy," Carmoney said. "One has to hope the economy continues to keep growing as it is right now.

"One thing weve always found is there are no guarantees when it comes to (education) funding."

Carmoney noted that is especially true of federal funding, which makes up a significant part of Michigan's school funding for the next year.

"We know the federal funding is one-time funding," he said. "You have to be careful about putting things in place that are legacy costs that you're not going to be able to sustain. So we're working on coming up with plans that address the unfinished learning that we had as a result of the pandemic, but at the same time making sure were not harming ourselves long-term by making financial decisions with funding that is only one-time available."

Still, the increase in state funding alone gives the school district a degree of confidence about being able to sustain new positions that it has added. Those include intervention positions to support students with learning gaps in mathematics and reading.

"It certainly makes it more likely that the sustainability of some of these added positions will be there after the federal funding is gone," Carmoney said.
Mid Michigan College student, Chris Torrez of Beaverton, recently received a Head of the Class award from Malco Products, a major tool manufacturer based in Annandale, Minnesota.

"Chris is a dedicated student, often arriving early and staying late," noted Ron Holmes, HRA Lead Faculty at Mid. "He is a team player and exceeded all expectations and standards of the program. He is the definition of success."

Since 2005, Malco has touched the lives of over 70,000 students representing over 1,000 trade schools and union locals across the United States and Canada. Each school term, Malco Products recognizes outstanding students graduating from career education programs in heating, ventilation and air conditioning, building construction and autobody repair. The Malco Head of the Class Student Recognition Program awards a graduating student Head of the Class honors, a significant Malco tool prize, congratulatory certificate and a Malco cap.

Completing this program has improved my heating and refrigeration skills, said Torrez. Beyond the coursework, Ive made lifelong connections with our instructors, my fellow students, and Im prepared for real-world work.

Mids HRA lab features heating and refrigeration units for hands-on learning that prepares students to enter the workforce successfully and quickly.

For more information about Mid Michigan Colleges HRA Program, visit midmich.edu/hra or contact Ron Holmes at rholmes@midmich.edu or 989-386-6622 x590.
Local students recently received iPad laptops after being selected by Project 111 celebrating and recognizing their safe driving habits.

Makenna Town and Brendan Weihl, both seniors at Midland High School received their laptops from Saginaw Bay Underwriters Vice President Scott Withrow and Midland Police Department Community Relations Officer Brennon Warren, respectively.

Project 111 celebrates the fact that Town and Weihl are safe drivers with clean driving records.

"The Project 111 program is clearly working. By combining incentives and education we are reducing teen crashes in Midland County. Midland County teens are involved in ten percent fewer crashes than their peers around the state of Michigan. Project 111 is a win-win for our youth and all of Midland County," said Withrow.
The following list includes recent reports from the Midland County Sheriff's Office and the Midland Police Department. Compiled by reporter Andrew Mullin.

Saturday, June 10:

11:26 p.m. -- Officers responded to a driver operating with a suspended license in the area of Eastlawn Drive and Swede Avenue.

10:01 p.m. -- A deputy responded to a Hope Township location regarding an unidentified female who reported she had a verbal dispute with her wife while traveling in their vehicle. The deputy checked several locations and was unable to locate the unidentified females. The complainant was unable to be called after several attempts.

9:37 p.m. -- Deputies were dispatched to a Jasper Township location for a complaint of guns being fired. Deputies patrolled the area but did not hear any shots being fired. Deputies cleared the scene without incident.

7:41 p.m. -- Officers responded to a domestic verbal situation on Dublin Avenue.

4:06 p.m. -- A 37-year-old Edenville Township male reported he heard people outside of his house, and wanted deputies to check the inside and outside of his house. Deputies assisted the male by walking his property and checking the inside of his house. Deputies did not find anything suspicious.

3:42 p.m. -- A deputy was dispatched to Homer Township to look for a white Ford Escape involved in a hit and run. The deputy was unable to locate the vehicle. The crash investigation was handled by the Midland Police Department.

3:40 p.m. -- Officers responded to a vehicle crash in the area of Jefferson Avenue and East St. Andrews Road.

3:40 p.m. -- Deputies were dispatched to an Ingersoll Township location for a sink hole in the roadway. Deputies responded and later turned the incident over to the Midland County Road Commission.

2:24 p.m. -- Officers responded to a hit and run crash in the area of East Gordon and West Indian streets.

2:17 p.m. -- Deputies responded to a Midland Township. location for a two-vehicle traffic crash. One driver sustained minor injuries.

1:30 p.m. -- An unidentified subject in a red Ford F-150 failed to pay for $67.17 worth of fuel from a Warren Township gas station. No license plate information was obtained.

12:32 a.m. -- A deputy was dispatched to a vehicle crash in Greendale Township. The deputy located the vehicle on the edge of the roadway, and it appeared the vehicle was turning around and became stuck. There was no damage and the driver walked away in an unknown direction prior to the deputy's arrival. The vehicle was flagged with caution tape.

12:27 a.m. -- A deputy was dispatched to Homer Township regarding a report of a disabled vehicle in the middle of the roadway with a male driver that seemed intoxicated. Deputies identified the 30-year-old male driver and he was arrested for operating while intoxicated/resisting and obstructing. A report was sent to the Midland Prosecuting Attorney's Office.
Director of Content and Operations

Spencer McKee is OutThere Colorado's Director of Content and Operations. In his spare time, Spencer loves to hike, rock climb, and trail run. He's on a mission to summit all 58 of Colorado's fourteeners and has already climbed more than half.
Paducah, KY (42003)

Today

Considerable clouds early. Some decrease in clouds later in the day. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High around 85F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

A few clouds. Low 67F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
During the July 12 meeting of the Palestine City Council, Teresa Herrera was named city manager. The proposal passed by a vote of 4-3.

Check back with the Herald-Press for the full story.
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The Libyan prime minister of the Government of National Accord, Abdelhamid Al-Dbaiba, Thursday urged the concerned legislative bodies and institutions to work together towards holding general election on 24 December
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - Libya's Minister of State for Economic Affairs, Slama al-Ghwail, has called on the International Economic Working Group on the country to play a role in the political consensus process, which will reflect positively on the approval of the budget by the Parliament, noting that the dispute over the budget is political
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - Amnesty International, in a report published on Thursday, has criticised Europe's ongoing cooperation with Libya on migration and border control
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The UN Security Council Thursday urged all Libyan authorities to take immediate measures to clarify the constitutional basis for the country's elections due next December in accordance with the calendar set by the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum (LPDF)
Carthage, TX (75633)

Today

Thunderstorms likely. High 82F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Locally heavy rainfall possible..

Tonight

Thunderstorms likely this evening. Then a chance of scattered thunderstorms overnight. Low around 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
BLOOMINGTON  State Farm's top executive last year made more than $20 million  the largest payout he's received since taking the helm of the Bloomington-based insurer in 2015.

State Farm Chairman, President and CEO Michael Tipsord's total compensation in 2020 was $20,266,505.62, according to documents filed with the Illinois Department of Insurance and obtained by The Pantagraph through the Freedom of Information Act.

The eight-figure total includes a $2,147,076.91 base salary and a $18,081,900 incentive-based bonus. It is a 65% increase from his 2019 total pay.

Tipsord's at-risk incentive compensation is "based on our financial results, growth, customer retention and employee engagement for the three years prior to the year of compensation," company spokesperson Gina Morss-Fischer said in an email.

"For the second year in a row State Farm experienced impressive growth," Morss-Fischer said. "The company continues to maintain the strong financial performance necessary to keep the promises to our customers and our Executive compensation package is designed to reward meeting those growth goals."

The insurance company in 2020 pulled in a net income of $3.6 billion, a 34% decrease from the $5.6 billion it made in 2019. In 2018, the company reported netting $8.8 billion.

State Farm's net worth, however, has risen steadily in the last three years. It increased from $100.9 billion in 2018, to $116.2 billion in 2019 and to $126.1 billion in 2020.

The company earlier this year said the boost amid the pandemic year was driven by gains in the stock market.

In May the company said it plans to add more than 1,500 new claims employees to its facilities across four states.

State Farm is Bloomington's largest employer, providing 14,436 jobs across its eastside campus.

Tipsord first joined State Farm in 1988 as assistant tax counsel, rising through the corporate ranks in the last three decades.

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He was named vice president and assistant treasurer in 1998, vice president and treasurer in 2001, senior vice president in 2002, chief financial officer in 2004 and chief operating officer in 2011.

His 2020 total compensation marks the highest pay he has received since being named CEO and president in 2015. That year the figure was $7,069,474.03, including a base salary of $1,324,076.94 and a $5,657,177.38 bonus, according to DOI records.

In 2016, when Tipsord was elected chairman of State Farm's board, his total compensation was $8,157,528.43, with a $1,476,000.06 base salary and a $6,644,035.13 bonus, DOI records show.

The records further show that Tipsord's 2017 total compensation was $8,502,234.94, with a $1,568,307.66 base salary and a $6,882,990.00 bonus. His 2018 total compensation was $6,646,304.13, including a base salary of $1,575,499.96 and a $5,001,980.00 bonus.

In 2019, Tipsord was awarded an $8,283,342.88 bonus in addition to his $1,944,230.84 base salary, resulting in $10,271,891.82 in total compensation, according to DOI records.

Tipsord's $20.3 million total pay for 2020 largely places him in line with some of his corporate leadership peers in the insurance industry, according to public federal financial documents reviewed by The Pantagraph.

Allstate Chairman, President and CEO Thomas Wilson's total compensation in 2020 was $21,126,386, filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission show.

Travelers Chairman and CEO Alan Schnitzer's total compensation in 2020 was $18,990,270, according to SEC filings.

Progressive President and CEO Susan Griffith's total compensation in 2020 was $15,220,523, SEC filings show.

The total compensation for Tipsord's predecessor, Ed Rust Jr., ranged from $9.4 million to $13.6 million between 2007-2015. In his final year as State Farm's top executive, Rust's total pay was $13,339,940.18.

Contact Timothy Eggert at (309) 820-3276. Follow him on Twitter: @TimothyMEggert

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BLOOMINGTON  After a year of housing students in a nearby hotel, Illinois Wesleyan University is preparing for a fall semester without the need for overflow housing.

About 100 IWU students made their home in the Bloomington-Normal Marriott Hotel & Conference Center for the 2020-21 school year, serving as the Uptown Marriott Traveling Titans location.

Kyle Griffith, director of residential life at IWU, said the university needed more space for the fall and spring semester that was close to campus and was safe and complied with our COVID guidelines. The drop in travel during this pandemic meant that we could block entire floors at the Marriott for our students.

The hotel housed undergraduate students who would have normally lived on-campus, but the on-campus dorms needed to be reconfigured for primarily single occupancy.

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The students had access to the hotels amenities but took up residency on floors specifically designated for students. Meal plans were fulfilled at campus facilities.

The Bloomington-Normal Marriotts team went above and beyond in making the students feel like they were living in a community rather than simply being hotel visitors, a shared goal achieved thanks to their attention to detail and thoughtfulness, said Michelle Wu, director of conference services at IWU. The hotel was a natural fit for this unique opportunity.

Migidi Tembo, the local Marriotts general manager, called the partnership a win-win-win, working out well for the university, student community and our hotel.

Illinois Wesleyan spokesman John Twork said at this time the university has no plans to house students at hotels for extended periods in the upcoming academic year.

Contact Kelsey Watznauer at (309) 820-3254. Follow her on Twitter: @kwatznauer.

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BLOOMINGTON  A wind farm project has inched closer to construction in McLean County.

The McLean County Zoning Board of Appeals this week voted 7-0 to approve a plan that would construct 64 turbines reaching 590 feet tall in the southeast corner of the county. The recommendation goes to the full county board for approval.

Sapphire Sky Wind Energy LLC, an affiliate of Invenergy LLC headquartered Chicago, submitted its application for the project May 10.

The estimated $350 million wind farm would span more than 14,000 acres in Bellflower and West townships.

The application seeks 89 turbine locations, but it notes that a maximum of 64 turbines will be installed.

The proposed 250 megawatt project would power about 80,000 homes annually, the application states.

The turbines would contain serrated blades that are larger and rotate slower than other turbines, creating less noise, Jim Griffin, an attorney representing Sapphire Sky Wind Energy, said at a past meeting.

He said the project would use fewer turbines but produce the same electrical output as other wind farms.

The 30-year project is estimated to bring about $71.5 million in property taxes to McLean County, West and Bellflower Townships and other government agencies including the LeRoy and Blue Ridge school districts.

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The zoning meeting was Tuesday.

A large constituent concern that the zoning board of appeals discussed was about shadow flicker, which is caused when the sun is low on the horizon and shines through the rotating blades, creating moving shadows. The project designers said the wind farm would restrict shadow flicker to a 30 hours or less per year.

Zoning board of appeals member Drake Zimmerman recommended shutting down specific turbines for certain times during the day to avoid shadow flicker.

Theyre not losing a gigantic amount of energy by turning it off for that half hour or so, Zimmerman said.

The committee spent most of its time debating on if it would restrict shadow flicker in some areas even more. It voted to recommend restricting shadow flicker to no more than 20 hours per year in areas where residents are not participating in the project.

Participating residents include those with wind turbines on their land and who receive payments in exchange.

Other residents are concerned over the construction of the project.

Ed Peterson, of West Township, said he is against the project because it turns public roads into construction roads.

He pointed to other wind farms that have hindered road access for residents, and that have caused ambulances, for example, to take longer routes.

I feel the road is for public access, public utilities, and priority is public safety above and beyond everything else, Peterson said.

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CHICAGO  Rising COVID-19 infections in other states have prompted Chicago to restart a travel order after several weeks without travel restrictions, city officials announced Tuesday.

The Chicago Department of Public Health said starting Friday unvaccinated travelers from Missouri and Arkansas have to either quarantine for 10 days or have a negative COVID-19 test.

Both states have met the citys mark of at least 15 daily infections per 100,000 residents. Health officials said other states could be added if cases continue to rise, including Nevada, Louisiana, Utah and Florida.

At the same time, cases are also rising in central and southern Illinois.

The COVID-19 pandemic is not over, and this only goes to show that the virus is still very much a threat and that we must all remain vigilant against it, Dr. Allison Arwady, the health department's commissioner, said in a statement. That means getting vaccinated and wearing a mask in public settings if you are not fully vaccinated.

Chicago officials have previously warned that people who defy the order could face hefty fines, but city officials said in November that only warning letters had been sent out. A message left Tuesday for a city health department spokeswoman wasn't immediately returned.

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Police will be forbidden from using deceptive tactics while interrogating minors under a measure Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed into law Thursday, making Illinois the first state in the nation to ban the practice.

Advocates of the new law say lying or using other means of deception while questioning a young person in police custody can lead to false confessions and ultimately wrongful convictions. Thats what Terrill Swift, who spent nearly 15 years in prison after falsely confessing to a 1994 rape and murder, says happened to him. DNA evidence later tied the crime to a previously convicted murderer and sex offender.

We can all agree that one day in prison wrongfully is too long, Swift, one of the Englewood Four teens who were wrongly convicted of the crime, said during a bill signing at Northwestern Universitys Pritzker School of Law.

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The law, which takes effect Jan. 1, bars police from knowingly providing false information about evidence or making unauthorized statements about leniency while questioning those 17 and younger. Any confession made under those circumstances will be inadmissible in court unless prosecutors can prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the confession was voluntarily given.

My deep hope is that Illinois is setting an example for the entire nation to pass this law in all 50 states, Pritzker said.

The governor also signed measures that prevent statements made during restorative justice practices from being used in court; allow state prosecutors to petition courts for lighter sentences for people previously convicted in their counties; and create a task force to study ways to reduce the states prison population through resentencing.

These are the latest changes to the criminal justice system signed into law by Pritzker, who earlier this year signed a sweeping proposal from the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus that will abolish cash bail beginning in 2023 and require universal police body cameras by 2025, among other changes.

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MONTICELLO  Kids are swimming, kayaking, doing archery, learning about science and all the fun things they always do at 4-H Memorial Camp in Monticello.

One big thing is different this year.

As part of the pandemic protocol, which was tighter in Illinois this winter when Andy Davis, University of Illinois Extension camp director was planning this years event, the camp is not just for kids.

Instead of bunking in the cabin with other kids, mom, dad and siblings hunker down together at night and enjoy activities together during the day.

Each family gets their own cabin during the three-day, two-night summer camp located at a lake and surrounded by trees.

All of the things that make camp great like outdoor adventures, hiking, boating, and swimming are just as fun socially distanced once we flipped to a family camp model, Davis said.

The camp organizers have held family camps before, so they knew how to run it.

The camp was closed in 2020. While minimal staff did repairs and maintenance, is was sad to see no campers, Davis said. Even though the camp is limited in size and arranged to suit pandemic protocol, it is alive with activity this year.

Only 15 families participate in each camp.

During this transitional pandemic year, there are also fewer camp weeks, fewer staff and fewer campers, but there is no shortage of fun and laughter. Even the odd scream can be heard as first-timers try out the zip line.

Were all super excited to be here, said Bethany Wood, the camps special programs director.

As always, camp activities have timely themes. Wood, with funding from a Bayer grant, is holding a Carbon Consumption Challenge theme this year, combining science, technology, engineering and math skills into the mix. Campers and their families learn what agriculture, businesses and individuals can, and are doing to reduce their carbon footprints.

In 2019, the Bayer grant funded activities about pollinators.

This particular camp, the weekend of July 4, was for members of those who served in the military. Since 2013 University of Illinois Extension has hosted children of veterans for a week of camp each summer, with support from Camp Corral, a nationwide nonprofit serving the children of wounded, ill, or fallen veterans.

Davis said many of the campers have traveled a long distance this year, including from North Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio, Indiana and Georgia.

Ive never remember so many people coming from so far away for a three-day program, he said.

One of the 15 families really enjoying the experience was that of Dennis Funtila, a Marine veteran from Las Vegas. The family of five didnt know what a hayrack ride was until their first ever hayride. They were accustomed to the bright city lights of the Neon Capital of the World. Fireflies were new to them.

Funtilas smile was broad when he described his 4-year-old bravely going down a zip line for the first time. Funtila also smiled as he watched his family taking an archery lesson. The proud dad said the Camp Corral experience and the Extension staff here have done a lot to help him with post-traumatic stress disorder and to enjoy time with his family.

We are grateful, he said.

After archery, the Funtilla family headed to the water sport area where kayakers and canoers come and go near the designated swimming areas with lifeguards on duty. Nearby campers play beach volleyball, fish and take part in other activities.

During the day someone will likely be making a tie dye shirt, a craft, a model rocket, rock climbing or learning to safely fly a drone, Davis said. Later in the day are hayrides and campfires.

Organizers adapted to the changing state rules, carefully followed protocols for the three main camps open to all. Only one child had to be of 4-H age, 5-18 years old, for the family to qualify to stay in one of the 32 cabins, he said.

The Camp Corral family camp and the Air Force/Army Family Camp, for currently serving families, had similar programs to the family 4-H camp, but only have a more defined audience, he said.

When the 250-acre camp is in full service, there are 320 beds, often used by special groups including the Diabetes Association, FFA and church groups, Davis said.

The family camps are so popular, he would like to add more for next year  but all the camp weeks are already planned for the popular 4-H in 2022.

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The top state official charged with policing allegations of wrongdoing by Illinois lawmakers and legislative staff announced her resignation Wednesday, calling the position essentially a paper tiger.

In a two page resignation letter, Legislative Inspector General Carol Pope leveled criticisms echoing those of her predecessors, who also raised concerns about the offices limited powers. She resigns amid an ongoing federal corruption investigation that has led to charges against a slew of former lawmakers

Pope, a former judge and Menard County states attorney, blasted an ethics overhaul proposal that was passed by lawmakers this spring and is sitting on Gov. J.B. Pritzkers desk. The measure, which she cited as a driving force behind her departure, has been widely criticized by good-government groups for failing to go far enough to address the states pervasive public corruption, and Pritzker himself has said more work remains.

I thought I might be able to make a difference working from the inside, Pope wrote to members of the Legislative Ethics Commission, an eight-member panel that oversees her office. I thought I could be useful in improving the publics view of the legislature and help bring about true ethics reform. Unfortunately, I have not been able to do so. This last legislative session has demonstrated true ethics reform is not a priority.

The office has no real power to effect change or shine a light on ethics violations, she added.

Rather than providing more independence for the office, something Pope and her two predecessors have repeatedly requested, the measure lawmakers approved in the final hours of their spring session would place new limitations on the inspector generals ability to investigate allegations of wrongdoing, Pope said.

One of her offices major requests was granted: The inspector general no longer will have to get permission to launch investigations from the ethics commission, whose members are appointed in equal number by each of the legislatures four partisan caucus leaders.

Pope and her two predecessors, Julie Porter and Thomas Homer, also had pushed for the power to issue subpoenas and to publish reports of founded allegations of misconduct by lawmakers without first going to the ethics commission. The inspectors general have said there have been multiple occasions when the commission has blocked the public release of a report detailing findings of wrongdoing by a lawmaker, at times due to a partisan deadlock.

Under the proposal on Pritzkers desk, the inspector general still would have to get the commissions permission to issue subpoenas or release reports on lawmakers.

Whats more, Pope said in an interview last month, the overall package contains more restriction than independence.

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Supporters say the new law clarifies that the inspector generals jurisdiction is limited to complaints that relate directly to lawmakers public duties, but critics, including some legislators who voted for the measure, contend that it puts new limitations on what types of wrongdoing can be investigated.

If Pope were to read about an alleged misdeed by a lawmaker in the newspaper, she wouldnt be able to open an investigation unless someone filed a complaint with her office. Even then, she would only be able to investigate if the allegation directly related to a lawmakers public job.

Pope pointed to the case of former Republican state Rep. Nick Sauer, who resigned from the House in 2018 after being accused of sharing nude photos of an ex-girlfriend online, as something that would now fall outside her jurisdiction.

In her letter, Pope also notes that she would not be able to investigate allegations of tax evasion by a lawmaker if it did not involve his or her legislative salary.

State Rep. Avery Bourne, a Republican from Morrisonville, said during a debate on the House floor that the ethics commission, of which she is a member, provides an appropriate check to prevent unwarranted intrusion into lawmakers private lives.

However, Democratic Rep. Kelly Burke of Evergreen Park, who also serves on the commission, countered that the measure is a good balance and said that discussions about more ways to tighten ethical safeguards would continue.

Pope, who assumed the role in March 2019, offered her resignation effective Dec. 15 or when a replacement is named, whichever comes first.

The office the legislative inspector general has had a rocky history since it was created nearly two decades ago in the wake of corruption allegations against former Gov. George Ryan.

The office sat vacant for years after Homer left at the end of June 2014, calling for more autonomy and transparency on his way out.

The vacancy was thrust into the spotlight in late 2017, when an advocate who raised sexual harassment allegations at the Capitol said her complaint went unheard.

Porter was appointed to the post on an interim basis. After Pope took over, with unanimous approval in the legislature, Porter published an op-ed in the Tribune decrying a broken system of handling complaints against lawmakers.

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CHICAGO  Earlier this year, Erkin Peksoz wanted a COVID-19 vaccine so badly that he drove 640 miles roundtrip from Chicago to Quincy to get a Johnson & Johnson shot.

Peksoz was happy with that decision  until recently, when the more contagious delta variant of the virus emerged. Now, hed like to get a shot of a Moderna or Pfizer vaccine, in hopes of increasing his protection.

Until delta, I was not worried at all, said Peksoz, a consumer data consultant who lives in Buena Park, Illinois. I feel like Im half-vaccinated now.

In clinical trials before the delta variant began to spread, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine was found to be 66% effective at preventing COVID-19, while Pfizer and Moderna were 95% and 94%, respectively, although all three were found to be highly effective at preventing hospitalization and death from the illness.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and most experts are not recommending that people who received Johnson & Johnson vaccines, or any other vaccine, get booster shots. Still, a number of individuals who got Johnson & Johnson shots are starting to wonder if a booster might be a good idea, given the rapid spread of the delta variant, a handful of experts whove publicly recommended it and what theyre seeing in other countries.

Its become a topic of discussion on social media, and patients are asking their doctors for advice. Some have already gone to local pharmacies and gotten Moderna and Pfizer vaccines, even though they previously received Johnson & Johnson shots.

Were well aware of this going on, said Dr. Mia Taormina, chair of the department of infectious disease at DuPage Medical Group. Whats happening here is people are not being forthcoming. Theyve received Johnson & Johnson, theyre worried, and theyre just showing up at CVS and Walgreens and not even disclosing they received the Johnson & Johnson (vaccine).

Both CVS Health and Walgreens say they follow CDC guidance, but neither answered questions about whether they have any way of knowing if a person seeking a vaccine has already been vaccinated. Illinois largest health insurer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, said it isnt aware of any claims for vaccines being denied because the second dose of a vaccine came from a different manufacturer than the first.

Doctors say there are good reasons for people to follow CDC guidance and not seek out boosters for Johnson & Johnson vaccines now.

If youre under 65, and youre otherwise healthy, in all probability youve developed protective antibodies, Taormina said.

Also, its unknown whether getting a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, on top of Johnson & Johnson, might cause problems, said Dr. Michael Angarone, an associate professor in the department of medicine and division of infectious diseases at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

We know that vaccines are not without side effects, Angarone said. He worries that for people who have autoimmune diseases, extra doses of vaccine could trigger flare-ups of those illnesses. I think when we dont know the benefit, and we know theres potential risk, in my mind, that is a risk I dont think we want to put people under.

The focus should be on inoculating people who have not yet been vaccinated at all, not giving booster shots to those whove already rolled up their sleeves, he said. The makers of all three vaccines say they offer protection against the delta variant though Pfizer has said it plans to ask the U.S. to authorize a booster.

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Still, in recent weeks, several prominent health experts made headlines for publicly encouraging people who received Johnson & Johnson to get Moderna and Pfizer shots.

Dr. Vin Gupta, a faculty member at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington and an NBC News analyst, tweeted late last month that people who got Johnson & Johnson should get a Moderna or Pfizer shot as a booster. Most I know who got J&J are doing it and are telling others the same  since two seems better than 1 (regarding) delta, he tweeted.

Dr. Angela Rasmussen, a virologist at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization at the University of Saskatchewan, also tweeted last month that she got a Pfizer vaccine to top off the J&J vaccine I received in April.

I think I did the right thing to make sure I am as protected as possible from the delta variant and thus am protecting others who only have one shot, she tweeted. Sometimes public health requires making tough decisions without a complete data set to support it.

Many people have also been looking at what other countries are doing with booster shots.

Canadas National Advisory Committee on Immunization last month said that a first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine should be followed up with a dose of Pfizer or Moderna, partly to elicit a better immune response. Germany has made a similar recommendation.

Though the AstraZeneca vaccine is not the same as the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, they rely on similar technology.

And even among experts who dont recommend the general public get a booster shot, some are recommending boosters for select patients.

Taormina, with DuPage Medical Group, said in the last couple of months shes recommended Pfizer or Moderna shots to about half a dozen patients who had already gotten the Johnson & Johnson vaccine but are immunosuppressed and didnt develop antibodies after getting it.

Doctors and health experts are hopeful more data in coming months will help show who, if anyone, needs boosters.

Some people, however, dont want to wait, now that the delta variant is spreading. The delta variant now comprises more than half of new COVID-19 cases in the U.S., though Illinois had only 288 known cases due to delta as of Wednesday.

Peksoz, who is in his 40s, has already lost one close friend to COVID-19. Though Peksoz is healthy, the illnesss unpredictable nature makes him nervous. Ive seen very unhealthy friends have it and not even know it, and healthy friends who are in the hospital for 10 days, he said.

Though Peksoz wants a shot of Pfizer or Moderna, he said he wont likely get one at the moment. He doesnt want to be dishonest about the fact that he already got a Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which he would potentially have to do to get another shot.

I just dont want to lie, Peksoz said. Its a very upsetting situation where we have a surplus of vaccines, and a third of the country doesnt even want vaccinations, and people who want to have better protection cant get it.

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FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS  A 48-year-old Fairview Heights woman has been accused of concealing the death of her mother and continuing to accept the elderly woman's "financial benefits and assistance" after she died, authorities said Wednesday.

Reena S. Hayashi of 216 Oxford Ave. is charged with two counts of concealing a death and one count of obstructing justice. Hayashi's bail was set at $60,000.

Police found the body of Karen Hayashi, who was 80, in a bedroom at their Fairview Heights home at 9:40 a.m. on Monday after a neighbor had requested a well-being check.

Police said in a statement earlier this week that Karen Hayashi apparently had been dead in her home for "an extended period of time."

The criminal complaint issued by the St. Clair County State's Attorney's Office on Wednesday said that Reena Hayashi concealed the death from March 1 through July 11, using air fresheners in the house to cover up the odor.

The charging document from the St. Clair County state's attorney said Karen Hayashi died from "other than homicide means." The cause of death is unknown and still to be determined.

The charging document states that Reena Hayashi "concealed the death of Karen Hayashi by continuing to file Karen Hayashi's taxes and accept Karen Hayashi's financial benefits and assistance after Karen Hayashi's death."

When police asked her about her mother, Reena Hayashi told them she had moved to Hawaii, prompting the obstruction of justice charge, the criminal complaint states.

Fairview Heights police are continuing their investigation.

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The political chaos that has followed the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise reflects a broader truth: Some nation-states are simply not viable in their current form. Growing incentives for corruption, coupled with unstable internal politics, can tear apart many governments.

Haitis troubles are severe. A parliamentary election slated for October 2019 was not held. In the absence of a sitting parliament, political legitimacy is hard to come by and disputes about leadership succession are not easily resolved. The head of the countrys Supreme Court recently died of COVID-19. A takeover by a strongman dictator, even assuming that was an acceptable alternative, is not imminent.

In other words, at the moment there doesnt seem to be any way to govern Haiti. One problem is that foreign flows of money, whether from the drug trade or from Venezuelan foreign aid, have overwhelmed the domestic incentives to play by the rules. Haitis political institutions are mostly consumed by bribes and rents, with no stable center. The news, so to speak, is that such problems do not always have solutions. At all.

It is fine to suggest that Haiti invest in building up its political institutions  but those institutions have been unraveling for decades. I was a frequent visitor to the country in the 1990s, and although the poverty was severe, it was possible to travel with only a modest risk of encountering trouble. Government was largely ineffective, but it did exist.

These days the risk of kidnapping is so high that a visit is unthinkable. In April alone Port-au-Prince reported 91 kidnappings, and probably many more went unreported.

Fragments of the Haitian government have responded by inviting the U.S. government to send in troops. Whatever you may think of this proposal, it is hard to see it as a solution. The U.S. occupied and ruled Haiti from 1915 to 1934 and failed to fix basic problems. The U.S. sent in troops in 1994 to restore order, and again failed to spur a Haitian political renaissance. A 13-year United Nations mission to Haiti ended in 2017, and the UN forces ended up extremely unpopular because they helped spread a cholera epidemic.

The buildup and rise of nation-states has become so ordinary that the opposite possibility is now neglected: their enduring collapse. Its not history running in reverse. Its that modernity has created new forces and incentives  drug money, kidnapping ransoms, payments from foreign powers, and so on  that can be stronger and more alluring than the usual reasons for supporting an internal national political order. If the rest of the world gets rich more quickly than you do, it might have the resources to effectively neutralize your incentives for peace and good government.

So where else might the political order soon unravel? In parts of Afghanistan, external forces (Pakistan, China, Russia, the U.S.) have so much at stake that the conditions there may never settle down. Other risks might be found in small, not yet fully orderly nations such as Guyana, Equatorial Guinea, and Eswatini (formerly Swaziland). El Salvador and Nicaragua seem to be consolidating their political orders, but at the cost of losing fair democratic political competition. The nation-state as we know it might not survive in every part of Nigeria, where the recent surge in kidnappings is striking.

In the Baltics and Taiwan, dangers from larger, aggressive neighbors lurk. In spite of generally good governance in these places, the pressures from outside powers might be too much to bear, reflecting broadly similar destabilizing mechanisms  namely, that the internal rewards for coordinating support for a status quo might not be high enough.

It is unclear what the U.S. should do about Haiti. It has an obligation to try to help, but its possible that not much can be done. The stability of the nation-state arose from a particular set of historical and technological circumstances that may or may not continue.

Tyler Cowen is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist.

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IN THE NEWS

School mask

limits lifted

Illinois is adopting new guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that says vaccinated teachers and students dont need to wear masks inside school buildings, officials announced July 9.

TRAVEL: As COVID-19 infection rates rise in other states, the Chicago Department of Public Health said that starting July 16 unvaccinated travelers from Missouri and Arkansas will have to either quarantine for 10 days or have a negative COVID-19 test.

CREDIT: The credit rating agency S&P Global Ratings upgraded Illinois bond rating, citing the states improved financial condition fueled by an influx of tax revenue and federal aid. Its the second upgrade from a major credit rating agency to move the state away from the brink of junk status.

JOBLESS AID: Historically high unemployment numbers during the COVID pandemic have led to a deficit in the state's Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund  the pool of money used to sustain the social safety net  that could rise to $5 billion.

MEDIA: Public high schools in Illinois soon will be required under legislation signed July 9 to teach students how to access and evaluate various kinds of news and social media they see online and elsewhere as part of their regular curriculum.

GREAT LAKES: Shoreline cities and towns in the Great Lakes region will be spending heavily over the next five years to repair public infrastructure damaged by flooding and erosion, with estimated costs approaching $2 billion, officials say.

THEY SAID ...

I dont partake, but just like every new business, Im going to show up and show my support. I hope they have a domino effect and bring in tourism for other businesses."

 Sesser Mayor Jason Ashmore, on opening a cannabis lounge

The (Illinois bond rating) upgrade reflects our view of improved liquidity, demonstrated operational controls during the pandemic, and an improved economic condition.

 S&P credit analyst Geoff Buswick

I strongly believe in the intrinsic value of sharing the stories and the contributions of our cultures that weave the beautiful tapestry of our state and of our nation.

 State school Superintendent Carmen Ayala

ODDS AND ENDS

ROUTE 66: Visitors to this years Illinois State Fair will be able to visit the Route 66 Experience, a year-round interactive exhibit at the Springfield fairgrounds Gate 2.

ENDANGERED SPECIES: A new law makes it illegal to import into Illinois, with the intent of selling, any body parts or products made from a long list of endangered and exotic species.

ACT, SAT: Illinois residents applying to public colleges and universities will no longer be required to submit SAT or ACT scores, starting in January 2022.

THE WATER COOLER

HISTORY: All K-12 public schools in Illinois soon will be required to teach a unit on Asian American history and culture as part of their social studies curriculum under a law signed July 9.

CONSENT: A bill awaiting Gov. J.B. Pritzker's signature would more clearly define sexual consent, making it easier to prosecute cases in which a victim is intoxicated or unconscious.

MONUMENT: A monument was dedicated Saturday in Brooklyn, Illinois, to mark its history as a haven for slaves in the 1800s and the country's oldest incorporated Black town.

CANNABIS: Recreational cannabis sales hit a near-record $115.6 million in sales for June, just shy of the record set in May.

IN THE NEWS

Legislative

watchdog quits

Legislative Inspector General Carol Pope, the top state official charged with policing allegations of wrongdoing by Illinois lawmakers and legislative staff, announced her resignation Wednesday, calling the position essentially a paper tiger.

COVID: More than 500 Illinois residents, most of whom are older and have underlying health conditions, were hospitalized last week because of COVID-19 despite being fully vaccinated, according to data from the state health department.

CAPITOL: Beginning next summer, $210 million in planned renovations to the north wing of the Illinois Capitol will make the 130-year-old building more secure, energy-efficient and accessible for people with disabilities, and Capitol architect Andrea Aggertt said the work is worth the price tag.

CORRUPTION: A New York jury on Tuesday convicted Chicago banker Stephen Calk of criminal charges for enabling Paul Manafort to get $16 million in loans before the former campaign manager for ex-President Donald Trump helped him get an interview for a job in the Trump administration.

SHOOTING: Police in Chicago have identified Klevontaye White, 34, as the man fatally shot by officers after he reportedly pointed a gun at them as they tried to arrest him July 9 in the West Garfield Park neighborhood.

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Delivery companies are positioning themselves to grow market share through more sustainable, emissions-free city logistics initiatives, particularly in Europe, but this trend is going to go global, writes Ian Kerr.

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Swiss Post is transporting mail for the Engadine region of Switzerland by electric truck. Two electric trucks transport mail at night from Zurich. Previously, diesel-powered vehicles were used. From now on, a pure electric truck will be used on this route, saving about 40,000 litrers of diesel and around 120 tons of CO2 per year.

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The new electric truck covers around 500km every night without having to recharge. Since the vehicles are only used at night, the batteries can be charged during the day. The next step is to recharge the batteries via solar panels, meaning the solar power can be fed directly into the truck batteries without any grid load.

Consuming electricity where its generated is a key way to reduce load on electricity grids. Solar power might not be a perfect solution, but already we see many postal operators (including Swiss Post) installing significant photovoltaic systems on sorting center roofs.

Meanwhile, PostNord Sweden is leasing five new electric trucks from Volvo Trucks Sweden. The trucks will be located primarily in Stockholm and Gothenburg.

Electrification of its delivery fleet is part of PostNords overall strategy to be fossil-free by 2030  28% of PostNords vehicles are electric. Work is also underway to detail how it can reduce emissions from other types of transportation, such as flights and ferries, as well as from buildings.

Electric trucks work where charging infrastructure is available. PostNord says that in other regions, for example in northern Sweden, it will seek to use fuel such as HVO100. About a quarter of PostNords fuel consists of renewable fuels.

The joint announcement from Volvo, Daimler and Traton in early July that they would build a pan-European charging network for heavy vehicles could help expand the range of delivery trucks. The question for postal operators such as PostNord and Swiss Post will be whether or not this infrastructure will extend their trucks ranges on less-used delivery routes.

Posten Norge expands sorting capacity

After its biggest-ever year for parcels, Norways Posten Norge has decided to expand its stlandsterminalen facility  and in the process, double its processing capacity for small parcels.

When completed, Posten Norge will have twice its current capacity, and will be able to process around 800,000 small packages a day. Posten Norge is also expanding its parcel sorting facility in Lrenskog outside Oslo. Postens Q1 e-commerce parcel volumes are up 58% on Q1 2020.

Increasing sorting capacity is crucial to coping with the anticipated continued growth in e-commerce B2C parcels. Posten has also been investing in the last mile, including electric vehicles for residential deliveries, and out-of-home delivery options such as parcel lockers.

Hermes Germany delivering emissions-free in Berlin

Hermes Germany is now delivering emissions-free to more than 300,000 Berliners; 28 cargo bikes and 14 electric vans are in action daily, delivering 2.5 million shipments per year.

The cargo bikes cover delivery rounds of 6-8km each and carry around 120- 130 shipments per day. Reloading is made possible thanks to a network of micro-hubs.

The 79 PaketShops in the corresponding zones are also part of Green Delivery Berlin and are served CO2 -free. Hermes plans to take this model to other German cities including Dresden, Leipzig and Erfurt.

This project has some similarities with bposts Ecozone project, which after a successful implementation in Mechelen is set to spread to other regions of Belgium. The bpost project sees tailpipe-emission-free vehicles delivering to parcel lockers, PUDO points (including post offices) and sometimes to the doorstep.

While on the surface this seems to be a battle for the environment, its also a battle for city delivery. Delivery companies are positioning themselves to grow market share through city logistics initiatives. While principally a European phenomenon for now, look for this trend to manifest itself in major population centers all over the world.

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COVID-19 remains a top concern for many parents in the U.S. because of their unvaccinated children. As families try to navigate the risks of the virus among children below 12 years old, some are worried about the long-haul effects of the illness.

Delaware dad Daniel Horowitz, 42, has been bringing his children, Emily, 8, and Adam, 4, to amusement parks this summer, where there is a face mask policy for unvaccinated individuals. The father, however, has noticed that the public doesn't follow the policy, triggering his worries for his unvaccinated kids.

In Wisconsin, half of the Albert Family have had their vaccination as parents John and Kathlyn work in a high-risk hospital setting. Their 13-year-old son Landon has also gotten his first Pfizer shot since kids 13 years old and above are now eligible for the jab. They have three other children below 11 years old who are not yet allowed to have the vaccine.

The Alberts said that they want to do many outdoor activities or visit families in other states with their kids. However, they continue to hold off on such plans more than a year after the pandemic until the younger children are safer from the virus.

Read Also: Unusual Respiratory Syncytial Virus Spread in Kids Worries Parents, Doctors

Many parents like Horowitz and the Alberts ask for more precise guidance from authorities like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on how families must navigate their lives to protect their vulnerable children. One parent said that it's a difficult premise to navigate "when the information is so nebulous."

The CDC released new guidelines on July 9 requiring all unvaccinated people to wear face masks indoors and in crowded places.

COVID-19 Risks on Unvaccinated Children

Studies show that, unlike unvaccinated adults, children below 12 years old develop asymptomatic or mild symptoms of COVID-19 if infected. However, the experts also said that the children could develop long-haul symptoms, especially from severe COVID-19 variants like Delta.

Long-haul COVID entails lingering symptoms long after the infection has turned negative. These include frequent fatigue, loss of smell or taste, as well as muscle and joint pain. In worst cases, children may develop multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C), a life-threatening condition affecting vital organs of the body, such as the heart, kidneys, and lungs. In June, experts in Minnesota recorded 95 MIS-C cases in kids between the ages of 6 to 19, but they did not need hospitalization.

Studies also estimated that long-haul COVID lasts about 12 weeks for some patients, regardless of age. At least a third of these patients do not need hospitalization, but they might have to visit a clinic to get help for their symptoms.

To date, the experts are still understanding the long-term effects of the infection in adults. They have yet to begin studying the effects on children. One researcher from the Pediatrics Department of the University of Minnesota Medical School said that there are still not enough studies to determine the long-haul complications of COVID-19 in younger patients.

Carefully Assess the Risks

With vaccination for children below 12 years old still unavailable, some experts advise parents to carefully make assessments and weigh what they can tolerate for their children's wellbeing. They might also need to keep track of the transmission rates for unvaccinated kids in their local area to be well informed.

As America is slowly in a "pand-exit" phase, parents with younger children need to keep in mind that while COVID-19 has a lower risk in unvaccinated kids, it is not zero. Young children must still follow the guidelines to keep wearing a face mask or practice social distancing. For now, visits to other homes and gathering with other people must be limited.

Related Article: Pfizer Kids Vaccine Against COVID-19 for Below 12 Could be Ready for Approval by Fall
Photo: (Photo : Jeremy Papasso/Digital First Media/Boulder Daily Camera via Getty Images)

A company in Los Angeles has launched a new platform, dubbed Mighty, to help kids run their online store and develop their entrepreneurial skills.

Described as a crossbreed of a typical lemonade stand and an e-commerce site like Shopify, Mighty is from co-founder Ben Goldhirsh, who admitted that he got the idea from observing his children.

Goldhirsh said that his two daughters started making and selling bracelets to their friends, and it gave them better lessons in Mathematics than their after-school tutoring lessons. His children were also less enthusiastic about studying after school, so he encouraged their love for selling.

The dad also asked his daughters to develop a business plan and marketing pitch for their bracelet business, and they succeeded in impressing him. So, Goldhirsh asked around about how to create a platform for kids like her daughters. He met Dana Mauriello, who had five years of experience with the small business shopping site Etsy.

The business partners are now putting up Mighty in the beta phase, where at least 3,000 young CEOs are running their shops.

Read Also: Spanking Children Worsens Bad Behavior, New Study Finds

How Kids Can Earn from Mighty

Children on the Mighty platform sell customized stickers, totes, caps, and other items. The items are printed by Printful, Mighty's partner in this venture. However, the platform's feature still doesn't allow for selling items made by the kids themselves. The children also cannot offer services like mowing the lawn or dogsitting.

Since it's still in the beta phase, Goldhirsh said they would eventually incorporate these changes and potentially add a subscription service. Mighty has a community online where members can share tips on making a sale or ideas on other features to add to the platform.

For every item sold on the children's Mighty store, the company makes a percentage. However, some parents might be wary of letting their children use the platform if they are not yet ready for the challenges of running a business.

Mauriello said that they have yet to encounter feedback relating to children being discouraged with their businesses. She believes that the online community guiding the young CEOs has been helpful. Mauriello shared that she is active in that community and engages with the children regularly.

Shopify Launches Kids' Section

Meanwhile, Shopify, one of the most popular e-commerce platforms for adults, has also launched a Shopify for children with a free Shopify Kids Business Starter Kit. The guide and activity book applies to kids between 9 and 12 years old, encouraging them to create their online store on the platform.

A study from Stanford has shown that entrepreneurs who start selling as a child or teenager have higher chances of succeeding in business as an adult. Running a business at a young age helps children develop problem-solving skills and critical thinking. Both are important skills to learn in life.

These days, kids can also expand their business operations by incorporating other platforms like YouTube to feature their product items and other ideas. It helps children build their confidence, improve their talents, and develop their interests.

Related Article: Free Condoms for 5th Graders in Chicago Public Schools Draw Outrage
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A plan to launch a pilot program for military spouses is in the works at the House Appropriations Committee, which will potentially provide opportunities for internships and fellowships for husbands and wives of military servicemen.

Reports cited that the committee plans to include this pilot program in the 2022 defense spending bill and has been estimated to cost $5 million. The program's specifics have yet to be unveiled, but it will fall under the military community support programs.

The draft of the proposal will still go through deliberation at the House and the Senate before it becomes a law. If approved, the pilot program will be similar to the My Career Advancement Account (MyCAA), providing scholarships, professional training, certifications, and career counseling for military spouses.

Lack of Opportunities, Barriers

A study from the National Military Spouse Network showed that despite heaps of programs from the government to support military families, 35 percent of military spouses are still underemployed in their current job, while 30 to 35 percent are unemployed, especially at a time of a global crisis. Abroad, about 88 percent of military spouses are also out of work because they can't find good opportunities or are overqualified.

Read Also: Military Dad Surprises Daughter in Florida While She Was in Her Internship

Nearly half of the military spouses said that their family income could not support expensive childcare; hence many decide to stay at home and tend to the children. For those abroad, finding a lucrative job is also impossible as they are restricted to military bases, where opportunities are limited.

These are common problems for military families as landing "meaningful employment," or a permanent and stable job has been a constant challenge when they need to keep moving houses upon their spouse's deployment.

Over one million American military spouses could help the country's efforts to rebuild the economy following the pandemic. About 92 percent of them are women, and 40 percent have college degrees.

Massive Hiring at Amazon

It comes as Amazon, the largest e-commerce site in the U.S., announced plans to hire more than 100,000 veterans and military spouses within three years. According to Fox Business, Amazon has 35,000 open positions currently, but the company plans to hire more staff by 2024.

In a statement, John Quintas, the company's director for global military affairs, said they have training programs for military talents who want to transition to the private sector. They also believe in military families' valuable skills and experience, thus the push to expand their hiring process.

In the last five years, Amazon has hired more than 25,000 veterans and military spouses who work in the operations and supply chain, as well as its cloud-based platform, Amazon Web Services. Military spouse Beth Conlin works as a senior program manager and has job security despite moving across the country and overseas eight times in 11 years.

She works in a remote environment but has the option to go to the office. Conlin has helped other military spouses become part of the Amazon family.

Related Article: Never Too Late: Father and Son Receive Long-Overdue Medals For Military Service
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British Airways has partnered with AirPortr to develop a series of fast bag-drop areas for its flagship Terminal 5 at Heathrow Airport, UK, before travelers head to the departures concourse.

Launching on July 19, the first drop-off point is planned for the Heathrow Express train platforms, enabling customers to drop-off luggage during peak travel times before traveling through security bag-free. After drop-off, AirPortrs team will seal, secure, and check in bags for passengers flights.

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Through the AirPortr service it is also possible for customers to book luggage collections from their home. This allows travelers to check in their bags prior to traveling, and once collected, AirPortr ensures that the bags are sealed and tracked throughout the delivery process to the airport. Upon choosing this option, passengers can track their luggage online, from their door, all the way until the point it is loaded onto the plane. A digital bag tag receipt will also be sent to users of this service.

Ahead of July 19, we have been busy investigating and trialling ways to ensure that we can offer our customers the smoothest journey through the airport possible, commented Tom Stevens, director of customer experience, British Airways.

We believe this contactless initiative with AirPortr allows our customers to avoid baggage check-in queues and move through the airport without the hassle of carrying luggage, as well as offering the reassurance that we are doing everything we can to ensure the safe delivery of their bags from doorstep to destination.

In addition to AirPortrs luggage service, the airline also offers a twilight baggage drop service the night before travel from Heathrow Terminal 5, enabling customers to drop their bags at the airport terminal between 4pm and 9pm the day before flying.

As British Airways seeks to streamline its customer experience, the company is trialling a range of digital travel apps to ensure customers meet the entry requirements of different countries and destinations before they arrive at the airport for departure.

BA customers can use VeriFLY for all flights to the USA, Canada, France, and all inbound flights. The airline also announced recently that it has become involved with IATAs Travel Pass; the digital travel solution will be available for use on British Airways flights from Heathrow to Geneva and Zurich.

Furthermore, it is now possible for British Airwayss customers traveling to Cyprus, Germany, Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal, to upload negative Covid-19 test results and related documentation to the companys website for verification before travel.

Were proud to be able to play our part in helping British Airways and its customers with the restart of international travel this summer, said Randel Darby, CEO and founder, AirPortr Technologies.

Seamless, contact-free journeys through the airport are in everyones best interests and removing bags from the equation makes this possible for many more people. As the specialist in this space, were excited to be working with British Airways once again to lead development of innovative new baggage solutions, for the benefit of customers traveling in a post-pandemic world.
David Ellis Peery, or Pizza as many of his friends knew him, passed from this life peacefully at his home in Elmore City with his wife of 16 years, Kristan, on June 24, 2021 at the age of 60.
Global pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca has officially opened and handed over the 2nd and 3rd PUMUA nebulisation stations in Greater Accra at the 37 Military Teaching Hospital and at the University of Ghana Hospital, Legon respectively.

The nebulisation stations are part of AstraZeneca's Africa PUMUA Initiative that aims to redefine asthma care and highlights AstraZeneca's commitment to improving the health outcomes of asthma patients.



Since commencement of the rollout of PUMUA nebulisation stations on World Asthma Day on 5th May, 2021, the initiative has opened 30 nebulisation stations at 10 facilities in Ghana.



According to Dr Emmanuel Abbeyquaye Parbie, Head of Department of Paediatrics at the 37 Military Hospital, "These new ultra-modern nebulization booths will definitely bring fresh breath to our children with asthma and other related illnesses that will have need for them. On behalf of Hospital Command and the Department, we are very grateful to the AstraZeneca Africa PUMUA Initiative, the Ghana Health Services (GHS) and Ghana Thoracic Society (GTS) for this programme."



In Africa, it is estimated that over 40 million people are living with asthma "and the World Health Organisation (WHO) cautions that over 80% of asthma-related deaths occur in low and lower-middle income countries.



The figure highlights the importance and urgency of ensuring that those at risk and those living with asthma have timely access to healthcare services, such as appropriate diagnosis, a direct link to care and reliable access to quality treatments to achieve control.



AstraZeneca Country President for African Cluster, Barbara Nel said: "We are firmly committed to redefining asthma care in Ghana, ensuring people with asthma enjoy optimal benefit from the major advances in asthma management. The donation of nebulisation stations, providing a dedicated area for nebulisation in hospitals, is part of the effort to support infrastructure build to optimise care. Working closely with all healthcare stakeholders we will continue to build awareness of the symptoms and risks of asthma, and boost medical knowledge and expertise of all role players along the patient journey. Together we can achieve results that go beyond what any individual stakeholder can achieve."



AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialisation of prescription medicines, primarily for the treatment of diseases in three therapy areas - Oncology, Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism, and Respiratory & Immunology. Based in Cambridge, UK, AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide.



The Africa PUMUA Initiative

The Africa PUMUA Initiative is AstraZeneca's programme committed to redefining Asthma care in Africa. Through partnership with governments, healthcare professionals and societies, and AstraZeneca, the Initiative aims to improve paediatric and adult asthma management across public and private sectors with a focus on:



Local health system strengthening

Health worker capacity building

Awareness and education

Equitable access to AstraZeneca's respiratory medicines

The Initiative forms part of AstraZeneca's sustainability commitment to deliver improved accessibility, acceptability, affordability and availability of quality care in Africa.









Source: graphiconline.com









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The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has assured the general public that 100 per cent of anti-malarial and antiretroviral drugs in the country are of good quality.



The FDA said the quality, safety and efficacy of medicines on the Ghanaian market were closely monitored on a daily basis and, therefore, there was no need for the public to panic.



Heightened surveillance



The authority in a statement said it had also introduced several risk-based approaches and interventions such as the extensive processes involved in medical products which had had far reaching effects to curb the menace of substandard and fake medicines in the country.



The FDA, it said, in attempts to control the influx of substandard and falsified medicines into the country by unauthorised means, had heightened surveillance at the countrys ports of entry which led to the seizure and destruction of many such products.



The FDA, with support from government, is also working with neighbouring countries through the West Africa Health Organisation (WAHO), the WHO and the International Police (Interpol) in this regard.



The authority has also constituted a 12-member inter-agency committee, from the security services, the judiciary service and other allied health agencies, solely to provide strategies and recommendations on combating the menace of substandard/falsified medical products, including developing and maintaining a watch list of medical products considered to be most susceptible to counterfeiting, the statement said.



It recounted that about 39.6 per cent of antimalarial medicines on the Ghanaian market were substandard and falsified in 2009 and as part of efforts to combat the issue it mounted an intensive nationwide public education and post-market surveillance activities.



Study



This was shown in a study conducted by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) with the support of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) which indicated a drastic reduction in the proliferation of substandard and falsified medicines from 39.9 per cent in 2009 to about 1.4 per cent in 2018, The FDA said in a statement.



In the case of antiretroviral medicines, the statement said the 2019 study indicated that about 14 per cent were found to be substandard due to the degradation of key components of the medicines, and also as a result of poor storage and transportation.



It is, however, instructive to note that anti-malarial and antiretroviral medicines in Ghana had a 100 per cent pass with respect to quality in 2019, a no mean feat that must be acknowledged by all, the statement added.









Source: graphiconline.com









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The Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has said that the successful launch of the Ghana.Gov digital platform, is a culmination of strategic steps to digitize government sectors over the past four years.



The Ghana.GOV platform, which is available to all citizens, residents and non-residents, is the payments and revenue collection platform that provides a single point of access to all services of ministries, departments and agencies of government.



Speaking at the launch of the digital platform in Accra on Wednesday, Dr. Bawumia said, while there had been an attempt by the previous government at a similar exercise, albeit not successful, the Akufo-Addo government knew exactly what it wanted to achieve with Ghana.Gov, so it set out, right from the onset of the administration in 2017, to set up strong pillars which would allow the implementation of an effective and efficient Ghana.Gov.



"While Ghana.GOV is not a governments first attempt at digitizing the provision and delivery of all government services on a single platform (the previous government attempted to do so), the approach this time is novel," Dr. Bawumia explained.



"We knew from the beginning that certain key pillars have to be in place before a single platform for the effective delivery of government services can be implemented."



These pillars, which the Vice President stressed the government has evidently established, include providing a unique national identity card for citizens and residents, a digital residential and business addresses, financial inclusion for citizens and residents through mobile money interoperability, the expansion of TIN numbers of tax payers, as well as the digitization of government operations such as the paperless port, passport office, DVLA, NHIA, Registrar General, etc.



"It is only after putting all these key elements in place that we have built this Ghana.Gov platform," Dr. Bawumia stressed.



The Vice President expressed delight at the successful creation of the Ghana.Gov, saying its operationalization would be of immense benefits to both citizens and the government.



"Ghana.Gov is a one-stop shop to enable citizens easily access government services, simplify payments for public services, ensure prompt payments for the services and promote transparency and visibility of internally generated funds. It is a real weapon in the fight against demons and principalities in the public sector," Dr. Bawumia said.







The Vice President also expressed delight that such a remarkable platform was powered by a local consortium (Hubtel, Expresspay and IT Consortium).



"I am excited that we did not have to go beyond our shores to develop and manage a platform like this. Indeed, the spirit of collaboration and innovation exhibited by the local technology companies (Hubtel, Expresspay and IT Consortium) who are powering this payments platform is most admirable."



The Vice President also commended other stakeholders, including the Ministries of Finance, Communication and Digitalization, the Bank of Ghana, GHIPSS, etc. who worked tirelessly to make the platform a reality.

Source: Office of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia









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A one-stop platform to enable citizens easily access government services, simplify payments for public services, ensure prompt payments for the services and promote transparency and visibility of internally generated funds has been launched in Accra by the Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.



Known as Ghana.gov, and accessible via the website www.ghana.gov.gh or shortcode *222# on any mobile phone whether smart or yam, Ghana.GOV is a payments and revenue collection platform that provides a single point of access to all services of ministries, departments and agencies of government.



Built from scratch, and two years in the making, the platform consists of 4 main components: a web portal, mobile app and USSD interface; a payment processing component; a notification component; and a complaint submission medium.



At a colourful launch ceremony at the Jubilee House on Wednesday, July 14, 2021, attended by the Chief of Staff, Ministers in charge of Finance, Digitalization and the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Vice President Bawumia expressed delight that once again, Ghanaian expertise had been utilized to solve a Ghanaian problem.



The Ghana Card, the Digital Address System, the Mobile Money Interoperability, Ghana.Gov and the Universal Q Code are the foundational enablers in our effort to maximize the potential of digital technologies in Ghanas transformation.



I am excited that once again, we did not have to go beyond our shores to develop and manage a platform like this. Indeed, the spirit of collaboration and innovation exhibited by the local technology companies (Hubtel, Expresspay and IT Consortium) who are powering this payments platform is most admirable.



Their collaboration spearheaded by the Ministry of Finance with support from the Ministry of Communications also involved our own National Information Technology Agency  which I am told is doing a good job hosting and managing the call center supporting this platform.



Dr Bawumia explained that among others, this single payments platform is expected to help grow government revenue, redefine how we all engage with government, and help boost Ghanas international profile rankings.



It is estimated that about 10 to 15% of government collections are lost through inefficiencies, theft and other accounting schemes. Going digital means that we can improve our revenue collections by an estimated Three Billion Cedis (GHS 3 billion) annually.



Beyond the financial benefits of Ghana.GOV, the platform will also transform how we all connect to Government. There is currently no official Government of Ghana mobile application for the over 9 million smartphone users and the more than 30 million mobile users in Ghana. The soon-to-be-published Ghana.GOV Citizen App will have important features that will change the way we connect to official information, report issues in our communities and exchange critical data.



As well, This governments aim of making Ghana a globally competitive market is anchored in the belief that increasing access to public services through technology will have a strong positive impact in the general ease of doing business within Ghana. In the process, this will boost our ranking among other nations and thereby help grow our foreign direct investments.



Ghana.GOV will offer a simple and single user experience for all government services and will make it easy for everyone to find and pay for government services. The days where you have to make several phone calls or look for a middleman just to get information and help on a government service is coming to an end, he remarked.

Who is on the Ghana.Gov Portal?



As of now, Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Passport Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Lands Commission, National Service Secretariat, Food and Drugs Authority, National Information Technology Authority, Registrar Generals Department, and the National Schools Inspectorate Authority have all been onboarded onto the Ghana.gov portal.



The team is in the process of onboarding the Public Procurement Authority, Data Protection Commission, National Petroleum Authority, Minerals Commission, and the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training, and Ghana Post.

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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The Minister of Finance, Mr Ken Ofori-Atta, has described the challenges associated with the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines by developing countries as unfortunate and embarrassing.



He said even though the government had set aside about $150 million from its own resources for the procurement of the vaccines, it could not be achieved due to the prevailing challenges which the minister said was a drawback to the global efforts to contain the pandemic.



I think that the vaccine supply issues have been quite embarrassing and you can see that the world is now moving very quickly to ensure that there is some vaccine equity, going forward, he added.



According to Mr Ofori-Atta, the constraints had further slowed down efforts by developing countries, including Ghana, to reduce the spread of the pandemic which was also dragging the global economic recovery drive.



The minister was speaking to the media on the countrys effort to acquire vaccines independent of the philanthropic support by global and continental bodies to procure vaccines for developing countries in Accra last Monday.





The ministers comments come on the heels of recent revelation by the Ministry of Health that the country was unable to procure Sputnik-V vaccines directly from Russia.



The sector Minister, Mr Kwaku Agyeman-Manu, said last month that the difficulty compelled the government to procure the vaccine through a middleman at a cost of $19 per dose, compared to the international price of $10 per dose.



Preparedness



Mr Ofori-Atta said the country was well prepared to procure, receive and deploy the vaccines to combat the spread of the virus in record time.



He said this was demonstrated by opening of letters of credit (LCs) with appropriate financial institutions which were awaiting signals from producers and suppliers for payment to be made.



I think for Ghana, we have done what is right except that it is a supply issue and once that is addressed, we will be good to go, the minister said.



The United Nations (UN) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) have both called for equitable distribution of the vaccines, especially to developing countries to help ensure a holistic eradication of the virus for a rebound in the global economy.



And in February this year, the Secretary-General of the UN, Mr Antonio Guterres, told the Security Council that: If the virus is allowed to spread like wildfire in the global south, it will mutate again and again. This can prolong the pandemic significantly, enabling the virus to come back to plague the global north.



Herd immunity



On achieving herd immunity against the virus, the minister said the latest loan of $200 million from the World Bank Group would go a long way to augment the procurement of vaccines to realise the goal.



Last week or 10 days ago, the United States of America (USA) also had a bilateral relation with a number of African countries to offer additional 1.3 million doses of vaccines to us. They already gave 15 million doses of the vaccines to the continent and our share of that is coming.



So my hope and suspicion really is that from the end of this week into next week, we will have a constant supply to be able to finish the second dose which would move us on to regular supplies. And as you know, our capacity to deploy is way above other African countries, Mr Ofori-Atta said.



The country received its first consignment of the vaccines in March this year and administered more than 200,000 doses in that month.







Source: graphiconline.com









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A notorious armed robber, Sulemana Alhassan who has been on the wanted list of the Ghana Police Service has been shot dead.



In an interview with Kwami Sefa Kayi, Chief Inspector Bright Kwabena Danso, Deputy PRO, Greater Accra Police command said he was killed in a shootout with the police.



Narrating what happened, Chief Inspector Danso said Sulemana and another accomplice were trailing one gentleman from Accra, Monday. When the man realised that he was being trailed, he parked at Pokuase close to a Police Surveillance team.



When the robbers realised he had parked close to the police, they opened fire but missed their target. In the end the police first shot Sulemana and later his accomplice who was trying to run away.



Sulemana Alhassan is suspected to have been involved in crimes including the murder of the Lebanese who went to withdraw money from the Bank at Tema Industrial Area.



Meanwhile, their bodies have been deposited at the morgue of the Police Hospital.



Listen to the interview in the video below







Source: Peacefmonline.com









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On June 14, 2021, a police officer, Emmanuel Osei and a trader, Joyce Afua Badu, were attacked by a group of armed robbers at Adedenkpo, a suburb of Jamestown.



Afua Badu who was an eyewitness was said to have raised an alarm of the robbery and was chased and killed by the robbers.



Exactly a month after the incident, the mother of Afua Badu says no government official has been to her house to commiserate with them or offer any support for the children she left behind.



Speaking in an interview with Odi Ahenkan Kwame Yeboah on 'Ekwan so Brebre' on Peace FM, the 80-year-old mother bemoaned the hardship she is going through because of the loss of her daughter.



According to her, the only support they've received so far is from the District Commander of the Ghana Police Service, who visited them with packs of water and a cash amount of GHC2,000.



Meanwhile, a sibling of Afua Badu has pleaded with the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Adwoa Safo to support the family in taking care of the three children she left behind.





Source: Peacefmonline.com









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First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo has issued a Consolidated Bank Ghana Limited cheque for GH899,097.84 as a refund of all allowances received since 2017.



Mrs Akufo-Addo on Monday, July 12 announced that due to the extremely negative opinions which have laced conversations on her allowances, she was refunding every pesewa.



She also served notice not to receive any monies that have been allocated to be paid to her pursuant to recommendations of the Professor Yaa Ntiamoa-Baidu Committee, which was tasked in 2019 to review emoluments of Article 71 office holders.



She found the public debate distasteful, seeking to portray her as a venal, self-serving and self-centered woman who does not care about the plight of ordinary Ghanaian.



Barely 24 hours after that, her office has written to the Chief of Staff, Frema Osei Opare, to present the cheque number for the full refund of the monies.



Her Excellency, the First Lady remains committed to her role as First Lady and is devoted to her charity work championing the wellbeing of women and children in Ghana, wrote Mrs Shirley Laryea of the Office of the First Lady.



A copy of the letter was sent to the Chief Director of the Presidency.



Second Lady Samira Bawumia on Tuesday also announced the she will refund all the monies received and decline from accepting any monies as per recommendations of the Prof Yaa Ntiamoa-Baidu Committee.



Samira also gives up all allowances received since 2017

She also expressed commitment to deliver humanitarian interventions and initiatives in the areas of health, education and economic development.













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The National Democratic Congress (NDC) will on Saturday, July 17, commemorate the ninth anniversary of the death of late former President Professor John Evans Fiifi Atta Mills.



A wreath-laying ceremony will be held at Asomdwee Park, near the Osu Castle in Accra at 0700 hours.



A statement issued by Mr Emmanuel Siisi Quainoo, Member of the Planning Committee said the ceremony would be conducted in accordance with the COVID-19 protocols.



The dress code for the much-anticipated ceremony will be white or Prof. Mills cloth.



Many bigwigs of the party including Mrs Ernestina Naadu Mills, widow, former President John Dramani Mahama, Mr Ofosu Ampofo, National Chairman and Mr Asiedu Nketsia, General Secretary and other party leaders and supporters are expected to grace the occasion.



The former President died on Tuesday, July 24, 2012 at the 37 Military Hospital three days after his birthday.



Since his demise, the NDC and family have held public lectures to honour him but last year's event was called off following the outbreak of the coronavirus and its attendant restrictions on public gatherings.



However, former President John Dramani Mahama took to social media and eulogized late President Mills saying You will forever remain in our hearts.



You would have been 76 years today, Prof. Though in eternity, memories of your sterling qualities and principled leadership are still fresh with us. You will forever remain in our hearts. Yours is a soul that cannot be forgotten, a man we cannot celebrate enough," he emphasised.











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Seasoned Journalist, Abdul Malik Kweku Baako has slammed the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) for opposing the payment of salaries to the sitting President and Vice President's wives, Rebecca Akufo-Addo and Samira Bawumia.



A report by the Professor Yaa Ntiamoa-Baidu Committee set up by President Nana Akufo-Addo, in its recommendations, stated that a salary equivalent to a Cabinet Minister who is a Member of Parliament (MP) should be paid to the First Lady while her husband is in office and a payment of salary equivalent to a Cabinet Minister who is not a Member of Parliament (MP) should also be made to the Second Lady while her husband is in office.



NDC Opposition



But the NDC has mounted a strong opposition against the Committee's recommendations arguing that the First and Second Ladies are not Article 71 public office holders, so not entitled to salaries.



Per the Constitution, Article 71 office holders only include the President, the Vice-President, the Speaker of Parliament, the Chief Justice and Justices of the Supreme Court as well as Members of Parliament (MPs), Ministers of State, political appointees and public servants with salaries charged to the Consolidated Fund but enjoying special constitutional privileges.



Due to the backlash from the opposition party and a section of the general public, both the First and Second Ladies have refunded their allowances.



1st/2nd Ladies' Allowance Refund



Mrs. Rebecca Akufo-Addo has issued a Consolidated Bank Ghana Limited (CBG) cheque for GH899,097.84 as her refund of all allowances received since 2017.



Mrs. Bawumia has also indicated she will follow suit by retuning an amount of 887,482 as allowances received from 2017 till 2021.



Meanwhile, there are calls on the former First Lady, Lordina Mahama, wife of Ex-President John Mahama to also refund her allowances from 2009 but no response yet from her.



As pressure mounts on Mrs. Mahama, some NDC members argue she is not obliged to return her money because hers is an allowance and not salary, claiming their problem is with the wives of the President and Vice President to be given salaries.



Kweku Baako Replies NDC



Addressing the issue on Peace FM's 'Kokrokoo' programme, Kweku Baako called out the double standards of the NDC.



Known to be a man of records, Kweku Baako read some records proving that, although President and Vice President's spouses are not practically captured under Article 71, they are however integrated for benefits spelled in the Article 71 provision.



He stressed that this has since been a normal practice, adding that, on the emoluments for public office holders, salaries include First and Second Ladies' allowances.



He, therefore, wondered why the NDC would be against Mrs. Akufo-Addo and Samira Bawumia receiving salaries but support the payment of allowances to Lordina Mahama.



To him, the NDC should be bold and call for complete cancellation of allowances for all First and Second Ladies including Lordina Mahama if indeed they claim to be principled on the matter.



"You're talking about the unconstitutionality of bringing in First Ladies and Second Ladies - the spouses. You're raising the red flag and the red flag you're raising, you're raising it within the context of a legal argument, a constitutional argument. So I ask you, allowances for the spouses, where is the legal or constitutional base? None whatsoever!"



"So, if you want it scrapped - zero option - say so. That's the point I'm making. If we feel it was wrong then and it is wrong now and that it is unhealthy, your argument should be from that perspective, but don't come and create the impression that ours was allowances," he stressed.



Watch video below





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Editor-in-Chief of the New Crusading Guide, Kweku Baako, has thrown his weight behind formalization of the payment of allowances cum salaries to President and Vice President's spouses.



The President, Nana Akufo-Addo, set up a Committee to consider formalizing the payment of emoluments for Article 71 office holders.



The Committee named Prof. Yaa Ntiamoa-Baidu, submitting their recommendations to the President, suggested that a salary equivalent to a Cabinet Minister who is a Member of Parliament (MP) should be paid to the First Lady while her husband is in office and a payment of a salary equivalent to 80% of that of a Minister of State who is a Member of Parliament (MP) if the spouse served one full term as President or 100% of salary of a Minister of State who is a Member of Parliament (MP) if the spouse served two or more full terms as President.



With the Second Lady, the committees report, recommended the payment of a salary equivalent to a Cabinet Minister who is not a Member of Parliament (MP) to the Second Lady while her husband is in office and the payment of a salary equivalent to 80% of salary of a Minister of State who is not a Member of Parliament (MP) if the spouse served one full term as President or 100% of salary of a Minister of State who is a Member of Parliament (MP) if the spouse served two or more full terms as Vice President.



But the report has come under intense criticisms, particularly from the opposition National Democratic Congress, who have kicked against the payment of salaries to the First and Second Ladies.



Due to the public backlash, First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo and Second Lady Samira Bawumia have refunded their allowances since 2017.



However, according to Information Minister, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the Committee's report was to ensure the payment of allowances (salaries) to the spouses of President and Vice President are formalized, in other words, brought into the open instead of it being done in secret as it's been the norm.



The truth of the matter is that all surviving spouses of Heads of State, current and former, have always received salaries. Lordina Mahama, Naadu Mills, Matilda Amissah-Arthur, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, Faustina Acheampong, Fulera Liman etc have all been receiving salaries since President Kufuor's time.



What has happened now is that the arrangement has been made formal but that was done legally based on the recommendation by the Emoluments Committee, Mr. Oppong Nkrumah indicated.



Touching on the issue during Peace FM's ''Kokrokoo'', Kweku Baako argued that the past tradition of paying allowances to the spouses without the notice of the public doesn't foster transparency.



He therefore called for the publication of the allowances in public saying ''I would prefer a situation where we elevate it to the level where we will get transparent interrogation of it and accountable interrogation of it. If we don't want it at all, ask for a zero option. I'm not one of those; I'm in principle for it''.



''They perform some tasks. They do and the dignity and status of that office whilst in office and outside office is to be maintained...there are good reasons, phylosophically and in terms of our history, for why this thing is done. If it's not abused, there should be no difficulty. But if you're doing it, also be honest about it. In fact, it should be in the open...Publish it...It's important. It helps with transparency'', he added.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu has said the only regret I have in life is to have trusted President Nana Akufo-Addo in such a sheepish manner as to have allowed him to have conned me into agreeing to be his Special Prosecutor in a naive but sincere belief on my part that he was intent on fighting corruption and was also against using the process of criminal justice administration as an instrument of political discrimination against his political opponents.



In a sequel to his harangue against Attorney General Godfred Dame for saying in a Metro TV interview that as deputy attorney general, he saved Mr Amidu from the threats of a legal suit filed by opposition MP Dominic Ayine with regard to his age qualification for the job of SP, the former Attorney General said: The position and status of Special Prosecutor was not one I would ordinarily have agreed to be nominated and appointed to after declining nomination for the Supreme Court in 1999 as I indicated on oath at my vetting but for the fact the President invited, cajoled, promised, and assured me that the appointment was going to be on terms personal to me and vowed to ensure my independence and that of the office.



Read Mr Amidus full article below:



THE DISQUALIFICATION OF MARTIN AMIDU AS SPECIAL PROSECUTOR WOULD RATHER HAVE BEEN A DISASTER FOR PRESIDENT NANA AKUFO ADDO: BY MARTIN A. B. K. AMIDU



INTRODUCTION



Mr. Godfred Dame had the effrontery, childlike pomposity, and arrogance to have said in the interview he granted to Metro TVs Good Afternoon Ghana programme that:



What I can say is that when his office was threatened by a legal suit, his own status as the Special Prosecutor was threatened by a legal suit; Dr Dominic Ayine instituting an action against the attorney general and himself, I rather defended him [Amidu]; defended him to the best of my ability and my defence was actually upheld by the Supreme Court and that resulted in him continuing as Special ProsecutorSo, in a way, Im responsible for his being Special Prosecutor, which he so much touts about.



This article is a sequel to my article, A Short Tenure Fighting Corruption and Political Discrimination Is More Honourable, published on 9th July 2021 in which I stated that: I shall be demonstrating separately that the disaster (for an unfavourarble outcome) rather awaited the President who had appointed older persons to public office, instead of Martin Amidu or Cynthia Lamptey, my deputy who were only to be affected tangentially.



I never sought to be the Special Prosecutor to tout it as an achievement  It certainly is not!



The only regret I have in life is to have trusted President Nana Akufo Addo in such a sheepish manner as to have allowed him to have conned me into agreeing to be his Special Prosecutor in a naive but sincere belief on my part that he was intent on fighting corruption and was also against using the process of criminal justice administration as an instrument of political discrimination against his political opponents. The position and status of Special Prosecutor was not one I would ordinarily have agreed to be nominated and appointed to after declining nomination for the Supreme Court in 1999 as I indicated on oath at my vetting but for the fact the President invited, cajoled, promised, and assured me that the appointment was going to be on terms personal to me and vowed to ensure my independence and that of the Office. The President and I at our first meeting in his office on 10th January 2018 anticipated possible legal action by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) on the age provision in Act 959 but we concluded, as seasoned constitutional lawyers, that Act 959 was constitutional, and above all it was not our place to invalidate an Act of Parliament.



THE DISHONESTY OF REMOVING A DEFENDANTS NAME FROM THE CASE FOR THE PURPOSE OF THE GREED OF CLAIMING A POSSIBLE SUCCESSFUL OUTCOME



The NDC as the President and I anticipated at our meeting on 10th January 2018 preceded Dr. Ayines action with an interview to 3FM on 12th January 2018 and a press statement also signed by its General Secretary on 5th February 2018. Dr. Dominic Ayine, the NDC Member of Parliament from my own region of the Upper East took freight and brought an action in the Supreme Court on 12th February 2018 against the Attorney General as 1st Defendant and me as the 2nd Defendant. The Attorney General filed her Statement of the 1st Defendants Case on 26th February 2018. I filed a Statement of the 2nd Defendants Case on 5th March 2018. Dr. Ayine and his team then applied to file a Supplementary Statement of Case on 23rd March 2018. I filed an affidavit in opposition to the application on 26th March 2018. The Attorney General filed her affidavit in opposition on 13th April 2018.



On the hearing of the application on 19th April 2018 Dr. Ayines application was dismissed, compelling him and his team to apply to amend their Writ and Statement of Case, which were granted by the Court on 17th May 2018. I again filed my Amended Statement of the 2nd Defendants Case on 4th June 2018, and later the Memorandum of Issue on 9th January 2019. The Attorney General also filed her Amended Statement of the 1st Defendants Case in June 2018 and her Memorandum of Issues on 18th January 2019. Dr. Ayine, the Plaintiff had filed his Memorandum of Issues on 30th November 2018. The case was then ripe for hearing within twelve (12) months from 12th February 2018.



The case was called for hearing on 5th February 2019, almost one year since it was commenced, without the Attorney General having formally applied to have my name struck out from the suit as a Defendant. Mr. Dame who appeared for the Attorney General, was content to take advantage of the benefit of seeing and reading my lucid pleadings resulting from my long experience as an advocate of landmarked constitutional law causes in the Supreme Court alongside distinguished lawyers such as the late Rt Hon. Peter Adjatey, Mr. J. B. da Rocha and now President Akufo Addo as worthy opponents. Then suddenly and out of the blue, Mr. Dame, for the Attorney General, took Dr. Ayine with his lawyers and me, the 2nd Defendant, by surprise by disingenuously applying orally to the Court after almost one year since the case begun to have my name struck out of the case as the 2nd Defendant.



Dr. Ayines lawyer, Tony Lithur, repeated a valid argument he had made in one of his applications when Mr. Dame orally applied to have me struck out of the case as a Defendant on 5th February 2019: But the 1st Defendant cannot properly speak for him on the matter. The issue is, anyhow, moot as 2nd Defendant has since filed a Statement of Case in response to the Plaintiffs Claim. He should have added that by filing my Statement of 2nd Defendants Case and taking part in the case from 12th February 2018 through to 5th February 2019 I had shown beyond all reasonable doubt that I was an Interested Party in the case and entitled as such to remain a Defendant in the suit by the Courts own precedent on the right of interested parties to take part in constitutional cases affecting them. I had invested time and energy defending my tangential rights for a whole year. Mr. Dame slept on the case for a year like he did in the recent GPGC/Ghana arbitration. Unlike the GPGC arbitration in a foreign forum, when Mr. Dame woke up he was less than fair and candid to the Court, the plaintiff and to me by refusing or failing to draw the Courts attention to the fact that the Attorney General was not in fact a nominal defendant as Mr. Dame claimed in his submission but a substantive defendant answering substantively for supposedly nominating the Special Prosecutor under section 13(2) and subsequently the Deputy Special Prosecutor under section 16(2) of Act 959, respectively.



The Court strangely and unfortunately, failed or refused to hear from me on this issue even though I was present, had announced myself and had been recorded as appearing for myself. My name was struck out from the suit as a 2nd Defendant the same day. But my pleadings remained on the case docket, and I had no doubt that the judges would or had already read them and would take them into account in their consideration of the merits of Dr. Ayines case.



My Amended Statement of the 2nd Defendants Case was published for the benefit of the public and can still be found on my website. Anybody may judge for him or herself whether my defence was not far more matured, reasoned, lucid, robust, and stronger than anything Mr. Godfred Dame thinks he filed on behalf of the Attorney General as the then 1st Defendant to have won the case for the Government. Mr. Godfred Dame deliberately got my name struck out from the suit (almost a whole year after it started) so that the Attorney General and him could bask in my name, integrity and reputation and take credit for the outcome of the case as he now dishonourably caused to have been done first in his profile published on 9th February 2021 and at the interview, he granted on Metro TV on 24 June 2021.



Delayed hearing and disposition of the case to render the Special Prosecutor ineffective



The Attorney General, and Mr. Dame, her deputy who appeared for her in Court, made no effort to have the case heard for more than another year. Dr. Ayine and his team wanted an early trial and so did I, to enable me to vacate the office or clothe me with the full authority to perform as Special Prosecutor. The Attorney General, for reasons best known to her and Mr. Dame, refused to formally apply for an early hearing as is the normal practice in such serious constitutional cases against the Attorney General herself and the Republic. In the interim, a High Court almost literally injuncted me from performing my duties as the Special Prosecutor when it ruled on 31st July 2019 in an application for stay of proceedings that: I am of the opinion that the situation at hand would amount to exceptional circumstances such that the instant proceedings ought to be stayed pending the determination of the Appeal and/ or the status of the Special Prosecutor, whichever comes first. It meant any prosecution I mounted would face the same fate. No decision was made until on 13th May 2020 when the Supreme Court disposed Dr. Ayines case.



The impression I formed (which was shared by other reasonable persons knowledgeable in the field) was that the Government that had appointed me the Special Prosecutor was, out of fear, more interested in assessing, in the interim, whether in the performance of the duties of the office I would show bias in its favour before, pressing for a hearing and disposition of the case. My reaction was to walk away from the Office, but former President Rawlings and others were prevailed upon to persuade me not to, as that would be an embarrassment to the President and the Government. I knew the catch in the case was the several more aged public officers appointed by the President to assist The Family enterprise who would have been affected if I walked away or was thrown under the bus. Nonetheless, my office was rendered ineffective by virtue of the ruling of the High Court, but the Attorney General and Mr. Dame, her deputy, never saw the urgency of the case being decided earlier than 13th May 2020. Eventually it was adjudicated and decided upon by an almost entirely new panel made up of a new Chief Justice, three newly appointed judges, and three members of the original panel two of whom dissented. I resigned seven months later, on 16th November 2020, leaving behind the more aged appointees of The Family who are still at post to take care of its corrupt business.



Mr. Godfred Dame appears to have deliberately and calculatingly gotten me out of being a Defendant in the case of Dr. Ayine v 1. Attorney General and 2. Martin Alamisi Amidu at the point the case was ripe for hearing so that he could claim in his biography that one of his achievements was for leading the efforts of the Government to the challenge to the constitutionality of the appointment of Mr Martin Amidu as Special Prosecutor. But any experienced and deep-thinking lawyer would have realized that the suit by Dr. Ayine was firstly targeted against the Attorney General who supposedly nominated me under section 13(3) of Act 959 and my prospective deputy under section 16(2) of Act 959; secondly against the President for purportedly accepting the nominations and forwarding them to Parliament for consideration for approval; thirdly against Parliament for approving the nominations; fourthly against the President again for appointing me and later my deputy to our respective positions; and only lastly and tangentially against me and later deputy for accepting the supposedly unconstitutional nominations, resulting approvals, and appointments.



CONSEQUENCES OF NULLIFYING THE APPOINTMENTS ON NANA AKUFO ADDO



Mr. Dame knows or ought to have known that even if the Supreme Court had declared my nomination and appointment as Special Prosecutor under section 13(3) of Act 959 to be inconsistent with the Constitution that decision would normally have saved any actions and decision I had taken while holding the appointment. Any decision otherwise would firstly have meant that the Office of the Special Prosecutor was never operationalized by the President since the enactment of Act 959 because it was the appointment of the Special Prosecutor that operationalized the Office of the Special Prosecutor. Secondly, the Deputy Special Prosecutor could not also have remained in office as her nomination, approval and appointment under section 16(2) would also have been unconstitutional as well on account of the reliefs sought from the Court.



Commonsense should have pointed Mr. Dame to the fact that a declaration of nullity ab initio by the Court would have been a disaster for the calculating Puppet Master, the President, Nana Akufo Addo, and The Family from which the President would never have recovered his loss of face and not for me or my then deputy. The many appointed older members and associates of The Family who are still at post facilitating its corruption would have been out of office. But Mr. Godfred Yebaoh Dame could not even distil these simple outcomes and consequences for the Puppet Master the President who made him Deputy Minister which were glaring from Ayines Writ and Statement of Case even after the decision of the Supreme Court on 13th May 2020 and subsequently used my name for his profile before his parliamentary vetting, and subsequently granting the interview to Metro TV as Minister of Justice and Attorney General.



INTEGRITY OF THE OFFICE OF ATTORNEY GENERAL



The rights, privileges, and obligations guaranteed to every citizen under the 1992 Constitution will become meaningful the day every Attorney General in Ghana puts aside his or her first hat as the Minister of Justice under which he or she may act politically and concentrates on the letter and spirit of his or her professional mandate of the Attorney General under Article 88 of the Constitution. Article 88 is informed by hallowed customs and conventions enjoining fairness, candor, and impartiality to every citizen and eschewing arbitrariness and discrimination in the performance of the duties of that public office.



It does not help the integrity of that Office when its occupant hops from radio station to radio station or from TV station to TV station doing politics and threatening political opponents with investigations by the police or with civil or quasi-criminal suits for criticizing his public performance. It certainly is not good for the respect due that Office when citizens begin disrespecting the Office by mocking any occupant of the office as a Local Champion adding that: This $170M judgement debt case, they should have sent it to Supreme Court or?; or that the occupant of the office should remember that: You can choose to threaten us. You can choose to behave anyway you want because youre the Attorney General. But let me put this on record to you. You will not be Attorney General forever.; or that the occupant is interfering politically on behalf of his appointing government with the constitutionally guaranteed rights of citizens to peacefully protest and demonstrate, and to freedom of expression or speech; or for the occupant of the office to tell citizens exercising their constitutional rights even before a Court decides their case that: If youre demonstrating about broken promises by successive governments since independence, what is the urgency about it?; or for the occupant of the office to be unfortunately described by a fellow citizen as: The puppet master reveals himself; or to be challenged by citizens to start with the criminal complaint against those who organized the Supper Spreader!; or that the police were his puppets; as such he was the puppet master all along in this suit; or to be told that: We have an Attorney-General Department. We have hired and paid two foreign law firms, Omnia Strategy and Volterra Fietta. Yet, we fell asleep and did not take advantage of the 28-day window afforded us to challenge the arbitration panels decision that we should pay $170M to GPCG for terminating a contract; et cetera, et cetera, (I could go on and on), all within less than the first three months of assuming office.



CONCLUSIONS



Mr. Dame was nowhere near this universe when I received my Qualifying Certificate Under the Legal Profession Act in September 1978 and was enrolled as a lawyer the same year. I am done with the professional practice of the law just as I declined the nomination to the Supreme Court in 1999 but it hurts to see someone who could pass for the person who was my last biological child, now an independent adult, occupying an exalted office I once occupied, for however short a period, behaving without the requisite maturity and experience of public service. I welcome Mr. Godfred Yeboah Dames pomposity and arrogance because they urge me on to continue criticizing him as a customary Ghanaian parent to change for his own betterment. This is the only way to depoliticize that exalted Office and put Ghana First.



Martin A. B. K. Amidu









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The Speaker of Parliament, Mr Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has referred the Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central, Mr Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, to the Privileges Committee of Parliament, following an alleged threat he made against a journalist with the Multimedia Group, Mr Erastus Asare Donkor.

The Speaker directed the committee, chaired by the First Deputy Speaker, Mr Joseph Osei-Owusu, to investigate and report the conduct of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP, who is also the Chairman of the Defence and Interior Committee, and report to the House which would take the final decision on whether the MPs conduct was contentious and amounted to an abuse of the privileges of the House.





It is not the Speaker or any other person apart from the House that will come to the conclusion whether what is alleged is just mere allegation or supported by facts and whether those facts really do constitute contempt of the House and abuse of a privilege of members, the Speaker said.



Not above the law



Addressing Parliament yesterday, Mr Bagbin said: It is important for me to emphasise here that the privilege and immunity of free speech applies in full force in plenary sessions and committee sessions, not when members are outside debating issues or on radio or television (TV).





You do not have that right or privilege and immunity to just say anything because you are a Member of Parliament. Not at all. We are not above the law and it is for a good reason.



Mr Bagbin stated that just because the MPs represented a large number of people, did not mean they should be given full immunity to be able to say what the people say they want them to say.



That is why you say it here (in the Chamber) and you are covered. That immunity does not cover you in the market square or anywhere to just say anything because youre an MP. I want to urge the House to do this as a House because it is something that affects all members and I as the Speaker, when it comes to the image of the House I have an interest, he said.



Motion





The Speakers directive came after the National Democratic Congress (NDC) MP for Tamale North, Mr Alhassan Suhuyini, moved a motion to draw the Houses attention to the conduct of the Assin Central MP on his own television network, which had caused another network, Joy FM, to refer him to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service for investigation.



He prayed the Speaker to exercise his power under Order 27 which stated, inter alia, that notwithstanding anything contained in that Order, Mr Speaker may refer any questions of privilege to the Committee on Privileges for examination, investigation and to ascertain the comments that were made and recommend sanctions that would act as a deterrent for the future of the MP in question and other members who might act like him.



Mr Suhuyini, therefore, urged the Speaker to exercise his powers under Order 27 and refer Mr Agyapong, whose act and conduct continued to affront the dignity of Parliament, thereby bringing it into disrepute as captured under Order 30 (2).



Unacceptable conduct





The Tamale North MP read the letter, dated July 13, 2021, from Multimedia to the CID that quoted what Mr Agyapong, as the Chairman of the Defence and Interior Committee, allegedly said on his show, a conduct he described as unacceptable.



Adhere to rules of House



In a reaction, the Deputy Majority Leader, Mr Alexander Afenyo-Markin, argued that the rules of the House were clear that a prima facie case against the Assin Central MP needed to be established.



He said the applicant, Mr Suhuyini, who had mounted a contempt application, needed to procure and make available the substance of what he is alleging.



According to him, it was inadequate for Mr Suhuyini to only refer to the supposed letter from Joy FM to the CID and called on the Speaker to ensure that the rules of the House were followed in order not to sacrifice the procedures of the House.













Source: graphiconline.com/Joy News









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Ghana's Members of Parliament are set to receive a $28 million car loan to purchase vehicles.



The Finance Ministry presented a loan agreement before the Legislative House for all the 275 MPs to buy new cars and another $3.5 million car loan for members of the 8th Council of State to also buy vehicles.



This has been condemned by the general public but some political bigwigs argue the MPs deserve the cars explaining the other two arms of government - Judiciary and Executive - are given cars without loan, therefore for MPs to take loan is in the right order.



Touching on the MPs brouhaha on Peace FM's 'Kokrokoo' programme, Governance Lecturer at the Central University, Dr. Benjamin Otchere-Ankrah has supported the decision to give the MPs a loan to buy cars.



To him, he has no problem with the MPs having cars or receiving whatever amount of remuneration if only they execute their duties.



Dr. Otchere-Ankrah charged Ghanaians to press hard on the MPs to serve the purpose for which they were elected into Parliament.



"We have to force them to do what is right because if we leave them to do their own thing, it might not be helpful to the nation," he said.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Ghanaian men seem to be just okay when it comes to their height, but they woefully fall short when it comes to pairing up with Stephanie Bensons daughters.



The never-aging Ghanaian Queen of Jazz has been blessed with five children, three of whom are female. Unfortunately for anyone who banked their hopes on snatching their hearts, all three have grabbed them some suitors.



The proud mama posted pictures of her dashing daughters all coupled up with their partners on her Twitter page.



A commenter observed that none of the partners were Ghanaian, obviously unhappy about the fact.



Stephanie took her time to explain how come no Ghanaian man was good enough for any of her daughters. According to her, all the nice guys the girls met when they were in Ghana were deficient in height.



Apparently, her daughters are all over 5ft 8in, otherwise, she would have been pleased to have a Ghanaian son-in-law.



A quick Google search shows that the average Ghanaian man is 5ft 7in tall while the average Ghanaian woman is 5ft 2in. Clearly, there is nothing average about the half-Caucasian daughters of Stephanie Benson. One of them is 6ft tall for crying out loud.



Ghanaian men have copped a stray L and once again and this time its through no fault of theirs. Tall, glamorous women like Stephanies daughters who like to rock high heels can be pardoned for desiring nothing short of 57.























Here are The Ladies of the Family and their Partners.  pic.twitter.com/Kk7L2uahwM









 Stephanie Benson (@StephanieBLive) July 14, 2021

Source: twitter/ghanacelebrities.com









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A deer is seen at the Michel-Chartrand Park in Longueuil, Que., Friday, Nov. 13, 2020. The continuing spread of a fatal wildlife disease in Alberta and Saskatchewan has a federal agency recommending a deer cull across a wide swath of the Prairies. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Paul Chiasson
Reader Cliff Martin submitted this photo of damage done to the bike lanes on Martin Street over the weekend. He fears it's only going to get worse.
SEARHC signs like this one have appeared across the community in support of the organization.

SouthEast Alaska Regional Health Consortium yards signs have begun appearing around town, sparking discussions within the community about the future of healthcare in Petersburg.

The prospect of SEARHC coming to Petersburg has been a topic of the community for a while now as residents look to hospitals that SEARHC operates in neighboring cities as examples for what could happen in Petersburg. Members of the community hope that these yard signs, which have been distributed by the Petersburg Indian Association, will lead to more open conversations about what SEARHC has to offer.

"I hope that a...
The last thing you expect to see while spending a quiet day fishing is a Bigfoot moving about on the shoreline and throwing rocks. A Kentuc...
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Aiken County student-athletes may be selected for random drug testing in the near future if a suggestion by one school board member gets adopted.

Aiken County Board of Education member Brian Silas suggested random drug testing of student-athletes during Tuesday's school board meeting.

Silas said he has had conversations over the last couple of months with King Laurence, Aiken County schools superintendent, and Dr. Corey Murphy, chief officer of operations and student services, about the possibility of developing a policy for random drug testing for student-athletes and marching band participants. Silas said he wants to include marching band as he sees it as a significant extracurricular activity.

The purpose of any testing policy that I would foresee us developing is meant to be nonpunitive, strictly as a prevention and intervention method to discourage drug use, allowing for intervention when problems are found and is needed, Silas said.

After being approached by a concerned parent, Silas said he thought about it, did his research, and felt it was a worthwhile topic to bring up to the board. Silas added there has been a problem in schools when it comes to vaping and the use of prescription drugs.

There are other districts in South Carolina and across the country with testing programs, and there are rulings by the U.S. Supreme Court that uphold random drug testing in public schools, specifically related to extracurricular activities, Silas said.

He referenced Murphys past experience with this sort of program to explain how it could work in the Aiken County schools.

Murphy was the principal at Beaufort High school from 2012 to 2017, and during the second year of his tenure, the school introduced random drug testing for all student-athletes, all members of the marching band and any student who wished to drive a car on campus.

Basically, it was about 10% of that population monthly is what we were testing, consensually controlled by the district office, so no one at Beaufort High School could control the allotted names to go in, Murphy said.

There was no significant loss of athlete participation, and an outside agency conducted the drug screenings, Murphy said.

We did detect some kids that were using over-the-counter or prescription drugs or marijuana; we referred them to counseling services. They did lose eligibility for the ball game until the protocol was enacted to where they had the intervention in place, and they also had to do a subsequent test after that substance cleared their system, Murphy said.

Silas said this program will help students say no, when facing peer pressure.

The testing program is not a meant to be a means for expulsion, not to involve law enforcement and has no academic punitive actions, Silas said. Its not meant to produce a record that would follow that student when leaving school; the only punitive response that I foresee or thats been documented in these programs is the lack of participation in that sport for a defined time.

Silas plans to make a motion at a future board meeting, giving other board members a chance to do research and discuss this as an option for Aiken County schools.
An engineering design issue has forced the developer of a large full-service hotel along downtown Charleston's waterfront to halt construction for several months, delaying the expected completion of the 225-room luxury project by at least a year.

Los Angeles-based Lowe broke ground on The Cooper in February 2020 on the former site of the State Ports Authority's headquarters.

Part of the development includes an extension of the city's neighboring Waterfront Park that will expand public waterfront access by about 400 feet.

A piling issue connected to the park expansion is what prompted Lowe to stop construction. Work has been on hold since March.

"Over the course of the past several months, there have been design modifications to the foundation of the Joe Riley Waterfront Park expansion, which are now ready for implementation," Dan Battista, senior vice president at Lowe said in a statement July 15.

Work is expected to resume "within the next 10 days," he said.

When officials broke ground on the hotel 17 months ago, Lowe predicted a 2022 opening. The Cooper is now expected to open "by the end of 2023," Battista said this week.

The development is significant  for its size, its high-profile location and what it's promised to offer.

For decades, the harborside property housed a drab three-story brick office building occupied by the SPA, which has since relocated to Mount Pleasant. Lowe paid $38 million for the Concord Street site in 2017 in what's still one of the priciest real estate sale transactions on the peninsula.

As a full-service hotel development, the property is expected to generate $6.3 million in revenue from various taxes and fees, according to a 2017 estimate. Lowe has said The Cooper would create 230 permanent jobs.

The total value of the company's investment has not been disclosed. Dallas-based Dart Interests also is part of the deal.

Lowe has had a significant stake in the Charleston hospitality industry since its purchase of Wild Dunes Resort more than 30 years ago. The California real estate investment firm has updated and expanded the seaside Isle of Palms getaway over the past three decades. Earlier this year, the company and Dart Interests marked the completion of a second hotel at the resort: The Sweetgrass Inn, which opened in late March, includes 153 guest rooms, a conference center and a rooftop event venue.

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Also, Lowe has been hired by the SPA to help the maritime agency prepare its valuable waterfront Union Pier property in downtown Charleston for an eventual sale and redevelopment.

The company has expressed high hopes for The Cooper. At the groundbreaking last year, co-CEO Rob Lowe had said he anticipated the Charleston hotel would be among the "companys greatest achievements.

The project was being introduced at the same time Mayor John Tecklenburg was cautioning against rapid hotel development downtown, but it still won supporters in the city  including Tecklenburg himself  largely because of the plan to expand public access to the waterfront.

City spokesman Jack O'Toole said Thursday that the Waterfront Park expansion is a "great gift to our city."

Lowe is footing the bill for the extension.

"We thank Lowe for providing this remarkable public amenity at no cost to our taxpayers and look forward to a grand opening when the work is complete," he said.

Plans also include retail and dining venues that will be open to the public.

A rooftop terrace six stories up will have views of the peninsula, Patriots Point, the Ravenel Bridge, Fort Sumter and the waterway it was named for.

Once completed, the road to The Cooper's opening will have been a long time coming. Lowe had presented plans for the hotel to the city about four years before the formal groundbreaking.

And, if the hotel opens in late 2023, construction will have taken about three years.
WEST COLUMBIA  Columbia-area pharmaceutical company Nephron will manufacture medical gloves, a $100 million spinoff that should employ 250 workers.

Gov. Henry McMaster, joining the company on its Lexington County campus, praised the project on July 15 for bringing manufacturing of nitrile gloves, considered a more durable material than traditional latex and less likely to trigger allergic reactions.

Making sure that more medical protective equipment is produced domestically has been a focus for McMaster after the United States was scrambling to find adequate supplies from overseas makers as the coronavirus pandemic took hold early last year.

It is critical that South Carolina lead the charge in bringing the production of life-saving medications and supplies back home to the United States, McMaster said.

"This is what success looks like," the governor said.

The spinoff company, Nephron Nitrile, will be housed in the Kennedy Innovation Complex, now being built on its West Columbia campus.

It is expected to begin supplying gloves in early 2022, the company said in a statement.

Over the course of the last year, we have poured every bit of creativity, energy and resources we have at our disposal into doing our part, as a proud Made-in-America manufacturer, to respond to an unprecedented crisis," CEO Lou Kennedy said. "Nephron Nitrile is the latest part of our ongoing effort to make South Carolina the nationwide example for effectively responding to Americas needs, this time by shoring up the domestic supply chain."

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The company has a goal of making 3 billion gloves in its first year of operation, Kennedy said. Most gloves and other protective equipment for medical workers now are made in India or China, she said.

The glove assembly operation will be highly automated, and the 250 openings to be filled will be highly skilled ones, with salaries likely to be close to Nephron's median pay of more than $70,000, Kennedy said.

"We have had no problem whatsoever hiring people," she said.

Nephron announced $215 million in new investment in the Midlands last year, and that included the Kennedy complex where glove manufacturing will take place.

In its most recent expansion, Nephron purchased a new industrial building for $4.8 million from Lexington County, located about a mile south of the drugmaker's central campus and across the street from the innovation center site in the Saxe Gotha Industrial Park.

In all, the company said it has invested more than an half-billion dollars and created almost 2,000 full- and part-time jobs since relocating its headquarters to the Midlands from Orlando, Fla., in 2017.

When Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., toured the facility in May 2020 touting his agenda to move production of pharmaceuticals and health care supplies back to the United States from overseas facilities, Kennedy latched on to the idea and told him about some of the ways she thought her company might make supplies in the United States.

"Right now we're sourcing those around the globe and that's not going to go away," Kennedy said earlier this year. "The plan is to make some of what we need and sell the rest so we have a steady supply."
GREENVILLE  The idea to swap Greenville's aging City Hall and move into a newer building on the edge of the Reedy River Falls first emerged publicly six weeks ago with an eye toward striking a deal before this month.

Negotiations are still underway, but close to an end, City Manager John McDonough said.

Were making good progress, but its complicated," McDonough told The Post and Courier. "Weve got to get the language right, get everything lined up. Were optimistic well get it done in the next few weeks.

Moving city operations from the 10-story City Hall tower into what's known as the Bowater Building wouldn't happen any earlier than the end of this year.

The city hopes to close on the sale on Nov. 1, McDonough said.

The city is negotiating with an investment group associated with the developer of Camperdown, Centennial American Properties, which bought the former North American headquarters of Bowater in 2017 for $27 million.

Mayor Knox White said the swap is a "once-in-a-generation opportunity."

Plans for future use of the City Hall tower, built in 1973, haven't been revealed.

The push to move comes as the city estimates it would cost $5.75 million over the next eight years to repair City Hall. The Bowater building will require about $4.7 million to repair the roof, electrical system and mechanical components.

However, while the costs are within range of each other, the move into the four-story Bowater building, which is 20 years younger, presents an opportunity to streamline city services and give the city a prominent presence along its central attraction, Falls Park.

The city said it could use the first three floors and lease out the top and leave room for future expansion.

The ground floor would be home to City Council chambers, which are on the 10th floor of City Hall, and the central location for the most-used city services, which now are spread across multiple floors.

The city and Centennial American Properties have made multimillion-dollar deals in the area in recent years.

Last year, as part of the Camperdown development that includes the 17-story Falls Tower, Deca luxury apartments and AC Hotel, the city agreed to pay nearly $20 million in infrastructure improvements related to the project.

In 2016, Centennials president, Brody Glenn, proposed an office building on a sliver of land between the Bowater garage and the Main Street bridge, which prompted the city to commit $4 million to preserve it from development.
South Carolina public health authorities are working to offer coronavirus vaccines at the entrances to state parks.

Edward Simmer, director of the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control, did not say when the shots would become available, but that his agency is "working with the state park system to have the vaccine available at many of our state parks." In some locations, receiving a shot on site may also grant free entrance to a park.

Both the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine and the various two-shot options will be available, so recipients can choose which vaccine they are most comfortable with, Simmer said at a DHEC board meeting on July 15.

He continued to urge that vaccinations are the best tool to stem increasing cases in South Carolina, including those from the more-transmissible Delta variant. The lowest vaccination rates are found in those ages 20 to 26, Simmer said.

Statewide numbers

New cases reported: 331 confirmed, 307 probable.

Total cases in S.C.: 495,405 confirmed, 105,827 probable.

Percent positive: 7.3 percent.

New deaths reported: 5 confirmed, 0 probable.

Total deaths in S.C.: 8,682 confirmed, 1,183 probable.

Percent of ICU beds filled: 68.3 percent.

S.C. residents vaccinated

DHEC's vaccine dashboard shows that 49.4 percent of the state's residents have received at least one shot of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Hardest-hit areas

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In the total number of newly confirmed cases, Greenville County (43), Horry County (43) and Charleston County (27) saw the highest totals.

What about tri-county?

Charleston County had 27 new cases on July 15, while Berkeley County had 15 and Dorchester County had 14.

Deaths

DHEC did not report the ages of the five people who died in the July 15 data.

Hospitalizations

Of the 192 COVID-19 patients hospitalized as of July 15, 53 were in the ICU and 16 were using ventilators.

What do experts say?

Roper St. Francis Mount Pleasant Hospital Chief Medical Officer Dr. John Ciccone said the chances of developing inflammation of the heart muscle as a result of COVID-19 vaccinations are slim and do not outweigh the benefits of the shot.

The inflammation causes chest pain, shortness of breath and feelings of a fast-beating, fluttering or pounding heart. Symptoms have typically been seen within a few days after receiving a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine and have mostly occurred in male adolescents 16 and older.

"The actual instances of myocarditis are quite low, and the instances of death are negligible," Ciccone said.

According to a news release from Roper St. Francis Healthcare, only about 0.07 percent of vaccinated individuals as of June 23 had developed myocarditis or pericarditis, swelling and irritation of the sac surrounding the heart.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continue to recommend COVID-19 vaccinations for everyone 12 and older.
When tropical weather threatens the Palmetto State, it is not uncommon for municipalities to make sandbags available for residents to protect their homes and buildings from water intrusion.

This is convenient for people because it is illegal to remove sand from some of South Carolina's beaches.

Glenn Jeffries, a spokeswoman for the Army Corps of Engineers Charleston district, said sand should not be removed from a beach without first coordinating with federal, state and local government for necessary permissions.

In cities like Myrtle Beach, violators who remove sand from public beaches and parks can be charged with a misdemeanor, up to a $500 fine and possibly 30 days in jail.

In 2018, Horry County Emergency Management issued a notice reminding folks of this law after hearing that hardware stores were directing people to the beach to fill their sandbags.

Mark Kruea, the public information officer for the city of Myrtle Beach, said every 10 years or so, the city spends millions of dollars for beach renourishment.

"So it's definitely not a good idea to take sand off the beach," Kruea said. "That's our first line of defense in the event of a hurricane."

And frankly, Kruea said, there is no reason to do so. If there is a serious hurricane threat, municipalities will often provide sand and sandbags for residents to help them protect their properties.

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According to the Army Corps, sandbagging is one of the most versatile flood-fighting tools and is an effective way to prevent or reduce floodwater damage.

In preparation for major storms, Berkeley County's roads and bridges department will get washed sand from various vendors and distribute it around the county to municipalities and fire departments. When the washed sand is no longer available, the county will use fill dirt from a local dirt pit.

Ahead of Hurricane Dorian in 2019, the county delivered more than 49,250 sandbags and more than 1,260 tons of sand to 26 locations, spokeswoman Hannah Moldenhauer said.

In the city of Charleston, residents who want sandbags are provided with 10 bags and are required to shovel the sand themselves. The city makes sand available at several locations, including on James Island, in the parking lot of the Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park and the Governor's Park dog park under Interstate 526.

The city of Charleston has 90,000 sandbags on hand and ready to be filled. The city has not had to supply sandbags for a storm since Isaias approached the area in 2020, according Matt Alltop, superintendent of environmental service, streets and sidewalks.

There are also other remedies for fighting small floods. The Army Corps said readily available straw bales are an economical alternative. In the case of a flood, the water will cause the straw to swell and make the bales heavier and watertight.

But if sandbags are your go-to method for flood management, experts recommend residents put them around areas that could be entryways for water, such as doors, basements and garage windows.

The bags are only intended for a small amount of water-flow protection  up to 2 feet.
Kingstree, SC (29556)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms during the morning becoming more widespread this afternoon. High 82F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
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CONWAY  Horry County Council Chairman Johnny Gardner admitted to violating the state's Ethics Reform Act, according to documents obtained from the S.C. Ethics Commission.

Facing six counts of ethic violations, Gardner admitted to failing to disclose campaign contributions and accepting campaign contributions in excess of $1,000.

Gardner, a well-known attorney with an office in Conway, was elected chairman in 2018 and intends to run for re-election in 2022, according to a prior interview with The Post and Courier Myrtle Beach.

"I was not in charge of the day-to-day campaign finances. It was brought to my attention that there was an issue," Gardner said. "I'm captain of the ship, so even though I didn't do it, it's my responsibility. I've accepted responsibility for it. I'll pay the fine and we'll move forward."

Gardner faces a civil penalty of $3,650 that is due to the ethics office by Sept. 12. The charges break down to $500 per ethics violation and an administrative fee of $650. The maximum fine is up to $2,000 for each count.

The commission also issued a public reprimand for the violations.

The six complaints Gardner violated are:

Failed to disclose a $20,000 loan from Anderson State Bank on his 2018 pre-election campaign disclosure report.

Failed to disclose a $50,000 loan from Anderson State Bank in his Oct. 10, 2018, quarterly campaign disclosure report.

Failed to disclose a $1,200 contribution from Randy Beverly on his April 10, 2019, quarterly campaign disclosure report.

Failed to disclose an $8,700 contribution from Rachel E. and Luke Barefoot on his July 10, 2018, quarterly campaign disclosure report.

Two counts of accepting a campaign contribution of more than $1,000.

According to documents, Gardner adjusted his campaign disclosure report to reflect Anderson Brothers Bank as the source of his campaign loan and revised his contributions from Beverly and Barefoot.

He returned the $8,700 contribution to Barefoot and $200 of the contribution to Beverly so it would be in line with the state's maximum donation of $1,000.

Initially, Gardner told The Post and Courier he did not plan to settle with a consent order. But when asked July 15 why he signed the order, he said he never meant to say he wouldn't settle and was thrown off as he was not aware of the initial charges as the paperwork was sent to the wrong address. He added it was media outlet questions that made him aware of the issue initially.
The Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor has named a new executive director to run the nonprofit group dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultures and traditions of Black people in the rice-growing regions of the Southeast.

Victoria Smalls will assume the helm on July 26. Smalls, who is from St. Helena Island, is a park ranger with the Reconstruction Era National Historical Park Beaufort. She is a public historian and educator who served on the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor commission from 2016 to 2020.

As director, she will create and build strategic alliances to strengthen the preservation and stimulation of Gullah Geechee people and communities within the global corridor, according to a press release.

The group was formed in 2006 by Congress, and its coastal territory ranges from southern North Carolina to northern Florida, where a chain of sea islands are embedded in a marshy, intertidal landscape that enslaved-Africans transformed into a multitude of rice farms.

In 2013, the U.S. secretary of the interior and the National Park Service approved the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor Management Plan to recognize the important contributions of Gullah Geechee people, as well as their history, traditions and origins. The corridor serves as an umbrella organization that has helped draw attention to various groups and projects within its domain.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation's African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund is providing more than $3 million in grants to 40 sites and organizations, including two within the corridor's territory: the Sapelo Island Cultural and Revitalization Society and St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition.

Among Smalls most important initial tasks is to guide the corridor through its reauthorization process this year.

Dionne Hoskins-Brown of Savannah chairs the commission and leaves the role of acting director.

I am absolutely ecstatic that we are able to place someone as capable as Ms. Smalls at the helm of our organization, she said in a statement. She is eminently qualified, uniquely prepared, and profoundly representative of the community.

Smalls began her cultural preservation work at the Penn Center on St. Helena Island in 2012 and served five years as director of history, art and culture, and director of the center's York W. Bailey Museum. She briefly worked at the International African American Museum as program manager before returning to the Penn Center in 2019.

She has also served as a commissioner with the S.C. African American Heritage Commission, the Joyner Institute for Gullah and African Diaspora Studies at Coastal Carolina University and, most recently, as a park ranger in Beaufort.

Smalls said she will seek guidance from commissioners and from feedback received from members of the community at quarterly public meetings. Generally, the corridor is focused on three main issues, she said.

"Education is going to be No. 1." The corridor seeks to raise awareness about Gullah culture within the Black community and in the schools. Teacher training should include information about Gullah Geechee communities, and that information should be passed on to students through modified curricula, she said.

"Language is vital," Smalls said. "If you have Gullah-speaking students in your class, you need to affirm it, not correct them when theyre speaking."

The corridor also will focus on economic development, providing support to creatives and entrepreneurs, protecting ancestral land and facing the threat of climate change, she said.

Finally, the corridor will continue to document Gullah history and contemporary culture, archiving documents and photographs, collecting artifacts and oral histories, and ensuring that information on electronic platforms, such as social media, are preserved. That will require community outreach, and protocols for teaching people how to safeguard valuable materials, she said.

Michael Allen, a retired park ranger and an architect of the corridor, acknowledged that the organization has gone through some ups and downs since its founding in 2006 and expressed confidence in Smalls.

He said he advised her to keep the faith and work to engage communities along the Southeast coast, raising awareness of the history and legacy of Gullah Geechee people.

"I think she is just the person, coming at the right time, as we begin to reimagine our role ... as people of Gullah persuasion," Allen said.
Syndicated and guest columns represent the personal views of the writers, not necessarily those of the editorial staff. The editorial department operates entirely independently of the news department and is not involved in newsroom operations.
Editorials represent the institutional view of the newspaper. They are written and edited by the editorial staff, which operates separately from the news department. Editorial writers are not involved in newsroom operations.
Kimberly Brock Brown, owner and corporate chef of Culinary Concepts in Summerville, has been elected president of the American Culinary Federation.

She is the first woman, first African American and first pastry chef in 92 years to be elected president of the 14,000-member organization.

She will formally take office at the foundations 2021 national convention in Orlando in August.

During her nearly 30-year tenure with the federation, Brown has worked as an executive pastry chef in health care and corporate settings and served as an adjunct professor at Trident Technical College and Johnson & Wales University.

Brown is now serving a two-year term as vice president of the federations southeast region.

Congratulations, chef Brown. You make Charleston proud.

PRISCILLA SHUMWAY

Wappoo Hall Road

Charleston

Democrats striking out

It appears that the Biden administration is very concerned over the pace of vaccinations in the country.

This is the same vaccine program produced in record time by the Trump administrations Project Warp Speed.

Many seem to forget that one year ago, many Democrats denounced any vaccine produced by any effort from the Trump administration. Thats strike one.

Next, we have the mayors of the larger cities with Democratic majorities seeking help from the federal government to help with the huge spike in gun violence.

These are the very same mayors who not only turned down the offer of help from the Trump administration over the past few years but campaigned against any federal presence in their cities. Thats strike two.

Next, we look at the mess at the Southern border. Thats strike three, theyre out.

FUDGY BRABHAM

Marina Drive

Daniel Island

Please get vaccinated

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The most recent COVID-19 statistics are causing me dismay and trepidation.

Rates of infection have started to go back up again, while the rate of vaccination has stalled, with fewer than 50% of South Carolinians vaccinated.

To those who have not yet had the shots, I urge you to please arrange to get one as soon as possible.

In countering the pandemic, the United States has the almost unique double privilege of early access to the vaccines and sufficient supply of vaccine to get everyone vaccinated.

Thanks to the amazing efforts of public health authorities, the shots are free and readily available, too.

While people in other countries are clamoring for the vaccine so that they can finally escape from the mayhem the pandemic has caused, it seems like folly to spurn the amazing opportunity we have to be the first nation in the world where we can boast we have beaten the virus.

So that we can all resume our lives and live free of the threat of this killer disease, please get vaccinated.

SIMON LEWIS

Dunnemann Avenue

Charleston

Grateful for Ken Burns

On a recent edition of 60 Minutes when documentarian Ken Burns was interviewed, I was reminded how many specials I had enjoyed that he had produced. One in particular was a segment in The War about the Bataan Death March.

My husband and I grew up in Estill, the home of Manny Lawton, who survived Bataan and later wrote a book about it, Some Survived.

Mr. Burns relayed so many historical facts about that time.

We enjoyed Mr. Burns specials on the Civil War, the Vietnam War, country music and our favorite, the U.S. national parks. We recently visited six national parks in the west, from the Grand Canyon to Moab, Utah. Those parks are truly so inspiring.

Mr. Burns captured my heart as I watched, as I am sure he did many others who enjoyed these wonderful programs.

We all need to support public television so we can continue to remember special times of the past. I am thankful for SCETV and Ken Burns.

PATTI ROUSE

Wando Farms

Awendaw
COLUMBIA  Nikki Haley is throwing more support behind U.S. Sen. Tim Scott as he begins his 2022 reelection campaign, promising to bring two of South Carolina's most prominent Republicans back together on the campaign trail.

In a statement shared first with The Post and Courier, the former South Carolina governor and U.S. ambassador to the United Nations said she is proud to endorse Scott "because he's proven he will never let us down."

As governor, Haley appointed Scott in late 2012 to the Senate seat he now holds.

"While D.C. Democrats play identity politics, Tim Scott is focused on solutions," Haley said. "From opportunity zones to police reform that supports law enforcement, he's making sure everyone has access to the American dream."

The announcement marks Haley's first South Carolina endorsement of the 2022 election cycle.

While Haley has already helped Scott with digital fundraising, her Stand for America political action committee will make an additional fundraising push for him through email and text message solicitations, according to a Haley aide.

Haley plans to stump for Scott later in the campaign season, the aide said, but specifics have not been set.

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Scott won't need much financial help. His campaign announced this week that he raked in $9.6 million in the second three months of 2021  a massive haul that lifted his campaign war chest to $14.5 million. But the additional boost can't hurt in the increasingly expensive world of campaigning.

Scott said he is honored to have Haley's support, calling her "a great conservative leader who I've had the pleasure of working with to create jobs, lower taxes, and improve the quality of life for all South Carolinians."

Two Democrats so far have announced their intentions to seek the party's nomination to challenge Scott: state Rep. Krystle Matthews of Ladson and Spartanburg County Democratic Party Chairwoman Angela Geter. Neither have released their fundraising totals yet.

Both Haley and Scott have been viewed as potential future presidential candidates, especially after they spoke at the 2020 Republican National Convention.

Scott has long said his 2022 Senate reelection bid would be his last. But he has declined to rule out seeking higher office, saying only that for now he is focused on winning in 2022.

Haley's rise to national prominence over the past decade and campaign travels across the country in recent years has prompted speculation that she's gearing up for a White House bid. But Haley said earlier this year she would not run in 2024 if former President Donald Trump decides to seek his old office.
Spartanburg aims to upgrade infrastructure on the city's westside to attract new development, a step the city's chief administrator said will help transform the downtown economy.

The infrastructure project would be funded through a $12 million state budget earmark for the city. On June 25, Gov. Henry McMaster vetoed $152 million in earmarks for 225 projects statewide. Four days later, state legislators voted to override the governor's vetoes, restoring funding for all of the projects.

The city now needs to finalize commitments from the private sector, Spartanburg City Manager Chris Story told The Post and Courier.

"There are some things in flux about some moving parts," Story said. "I envision public meetings will be held over the next couple of months about that. I think we are in a position, if we can get private sector commitments and finance the other, I think we are going to take a big step forward in realizing the downtown economy everybody wants."

Infrastructure upgrades could include street work, increased parking capacity and utility work several blocks west and south of Morgan Square, he said.

There have already been preliminary commitments from private organizations to invest and develop in the area based on the city's plan to upgrade infrastructure in those areas, he said.

"It's fair to say this allocation of resources makes (new development) more likely," Story said. "We have had some promising interest, but this helps us get to the finish line. It would be office space and some additional retail."

The state has provided the city with public funding in the past to promote economic development efforts, but not of this scale.

"I think the state has helped in smaller ways on various economic development projects, but this is the most significant," Story said. "I think in some ways it makes good sense because the Upstate is evolving and South Carolina is trying to evolve."

Story said the city is continuing to work toward attracting more white-collar jobs, which the infrastructure project is designed to attract.

Working with Spartanburg County's legislative delegation, OneSpartanburg President and CEO Allen Smith said work began nearly two years ago on securing the $12 million earmark for the city. Smith said the original request was for $18 million.

"We will figure out how we can secure the rest in order to provide for the infrastructure project to start coming out of the ground," Smith said. "These public infrastructure projects have a public benefit and major public impact on years to come."

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As downtown's residential population continues to grow, he said, efforts are being made to improve the aesthetics of the city's gateways and corridors including along West Main Street, which will help transform this area by attracting diversified businesses.

The city's old master plan for growth identifies West Main Street as "being the next economic corridor for the city," Smith said.

"You see that coming slowly to fruition now with the city actively enforcing code," he said. "You are seeing West Main Street from a cosmetic standpoint getting cleaned up. Working with the city to enforce the code over there, we hope to raise more private capital and redesign with bike lanes and landscaping not with state investment."

New residential construction in Spartanburg continues at a record pace.

Smith said as of 2019 there were 400 residential units downtown.

Since then, 2,200 residential units have been constructed or in the process of construction within five miles of Morgan Square, with the number of residential units downtown increasing to 947.

State Rep. Steven Long of Boiling Springs said while growth continues in the city, other areas including on the westside have remained stagnant. He said there are groups interested in investing.

"I think (the infrastructure project) will have a significant impact more than just on the city but on the county for what it is used for," Long said. "The infrastructure project build-up on that side of town is to support job creation. I think it is important to have some higher-income job creation. There are a lot of businesses coming here, but we don't have as many white-collar jobs for people. We just want to create that opportunity in the Spartanburg area."

One member of Spartanburg County's legislative delegation voted against restoring funding for earmarks. State Rep. Josiah Magnuson of Campobello told The Post and Courier he couldn't support restoring funding because taxpayers couldn't be sure how the money is going to be spent for all of the projects.

"I don't think we know 100 percent of where the money is going to be spent," Magnuson said. "If it used for infrastructure, I don't see a problem with that funding. If it used to pick winners and losers in business or give some special interest an upper hand, then I don't support that."

Magnuson said in his vote against restoring funding for earmarks that he wasn't targeting the $12 million earmarked for Spartanburg. He said he couldn't support restoring funding for all projects, calling them "all manner of pork."

"I voted to uphold all the earmark vetoes," Magnuson said. "The earmarks included Spartanburg money, but there was quite a bit more than just that money. A lot of these projects end up where I don't think taxpayers want them. Spending public money, I think the public has the right to know where the money is going and why and what it is being spent on."
The White House on Wednesday confirmed the evacuation of Afghan allies will start in two weeks as part of "Operation Allies Refuge" with no further details, but one of the leading advocates for the evacuation to a U.S. territory said 2,000 Afghans would be brought to Guam while their visas are being processed.

Chris Purdy, project manager for the Veterans for American Ideals program at Human Rights First, said his understanding is that Guam will house "2,000 Afghan evacuees on Andersen Air Force Base," and that "a significant amount of COVID-19 vaccines have been delivered to Kabul."

"But things may change," Purdy said. Purdy is a retired Army sergeant who served in Iraq from 2004 to 2011.

That 2,000 people is just a fraction of the estimated 18,000 Afghan special immigrant visa, or SIV, applicants in the pipeline. The SIV application takes years to process, advocates said.

Purdy and No One Left Behind co-founder Matt Zeller are among leading advocates for the immediate evacuation of Afghan allies to Guam or other U.S. territories while their visas are being processed.

They said leaving the Afghan allies behind puts them at great risk of harm or death at the hands of the Taliban, and that Guam successfully hosted war evacuees during the Vietnam War in the 1970s and the Gulf War in the '90s.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki, during a briefing on Wednesday, said "Flights out of Afghanistan for SIV applicants who are already in the pipeline will begin in the last week of July and will continue."

Psaki gave no specific details, citing "operational and security reasons." These details include where the allies would be sent, who will be eligible to be sent, how many of them will travel, and what role the U.S. military will play.

"Our objective is to get individuals who are eligible relocated out of the country in advance of the removal  of the withdrawal of troops at the end of August," she said.

Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero and Del. Michael San Nicolas on Thursday said they had yet to receive official word about Guam's role in the evacuation.

US military bases

The Washington Post reported Wednesday (Thursday, Guam time) that the Biden administration may house some of the Afghan nationals on military bases in the U.S. as part of "Operation Allies Refuge."

In 1975 and 1996, the U.S. evacuated more than 110,000 Vietnamese and more than 6,000 Iraqi allies, respectively, to Guam, while their permanent visa applications were processed.

On July 21, Guam will mark the 77th anniversary of its liberation by the U.S. from Japanese occupation during World War II.

"Operation New Life," in 1975, involved the processing on Guam of Vietnamese refugees evacuated before and after the Fall of Saigon.

More than 111,000 of the evacuated 130,000 Vietnamese were transported to Guam, where they were housed in tent cities.

Most of them spent only two to three weeks on Guam before they were transported to the U.S. or, in a few cases, to other countries.

In 1996, the U.S. launched "Operation Pacific Haven," and evacuated more than 6,000 Iraqi or Kurdish refugees to Guam who eventually resettled in the U.S. after a number of weeks.

Now, Guam once again may play a role in "Operation Allies Refuge."

No updates

The governor said she has yet to receive any updates about the Afghan allies' evacuation.

"We haven't heard much from (Joint Region Marianas commander Rear Adm. Benjamin R. Nicholson) because he really doesn't have any official word. I know they are still in discussions and planning stage. It's going to be a big operation and we want to make sure things are done adequately, appropriately and properly," Leon Guerrero said.

San Nicolas on Thursday afternoon said, "There is no movement as of right now."

The governor in June wrote a letter to President Joe Biden, expressing Guam's support to temporarily host the Afghan allies if a decision was made, but she wanted to make sure the local government would be included in any such planning.

The United States plans to complete its pullout from Afghanistan on Sept. 11, the 20th anniversary of the terror attacks that sent the U.S. into its longest war. The withdrawal is nearly complete.
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Work continues at construction site at 53 W. Germantown Pike in East Norriton Township after a roofing worker died following a fall last week.
Kto szuka: Nordea Bank Abp SA Oddzia w Polsce Stanowisko: Java Developer in Safekeeping & Corporate Actions Lokalizacja: Gdansk pomorskie

Wymagania stawiane pracownikowi:

#Java #Event-Driven Architecture #Spring

Are you a Java developer with experience in systems integration? Are you interested in joining the banking industry and exploring the internals of Safekeeping and Corporate Actions business? If so, then this offer should interest you.

We are professionals. There is no space for low quality solutions, but there is a space to learn, to grow, to support others and to propose better and efficient ways of working. We want to support you and also learn from you. Continuous improvements are very important part of our work.

About this opportunity

Welcome to the Software Development Team Poland. We add value by building a high quality trading platform for Nordeas clients. We contribute to a variety of projects related to the different steps in the trade lifecycle. This is our manifesto:

We code in Java

 and actually review it.

We take git flow seriously.

We discuss solutions

 and argue a lot.

We do stand-ups sitting.

We work together and play together

and we deliver.

Were looking for developers to work on the integrating our modern Safekeeping & Corpotate Action system with the rest of the banks IT resources. The responsibilities for this position include both maintenance and development on multiple integration components.

The role is based in Gdansk, Poland. We have an amazing office with a view of the sea. You can expect an environment where micromanagement is frowned upon, your private time is respected, and there are the occasional pizza talks. Nordea provides education possibilities and supports freedom to change ones career path. Occasionally, you'll go on business trips to meet up with our Nordic counterparts.

Who you are

Collaboration. Ownership. Passion. Courage. These are the values that guide us in being at our best  and that we imagine you share with us.

Hopefully, the following statements describe you:

You are fluent in English, Java, and SQL

If you encounter a problem, you run with it.

You are not afraid to ask questions

... but you are also eager to provide answers.

You have a sense of humor

... and you deliver.

These are the primary tools that we use:

Java 8, Maven, JUnit (4&5)

Spring Boot, Spring Integration

Oracle, IBM MQ, Kafka

Bitbucket, Bamboo

Business area:

Safekeeping

Corporate Actions

Trading

Settlement

Our agenda for incoming months:

Dockerization and migration to cloud platform

Integration with Kafka based communication layer

Implementation of various regulatory projects

If this sounds like you, get in touch!

Firma oferuje:

Next steps

Submit your application no later than 16/08/2021.

At Nordea, we know that an inclusive workplace is a sustainable workplace. We deeply believe that our diverse backgrounds, experiences, characteristics and traits make us better at serving customers and communities. So please come as you are.

Please include permit for processing personal data in CV as following:

In accordance with art. 6 (1) a and b. Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Directive 95/46/EC (General Data Protection Regulation) hereinafter GDPR. I agree to have: my personal data, education and employment history proceeded for the purposes of current and future recruitment processes in Nordea Bank Abp.

The administrator of your personal data is: Nordea Bank Abp operating in Poland through its Branch, address: Aleja Edwarda Rydza Smiglego 20, 93-281 odz. Your personal data will be processed for the recruitment processes in Nordea Bank Abp. You have a right to access your personal data, right to rectify and right to delete. Disclosing the personal data in the scope specified by the provisions of Polish Labour Code from 26 June 1974 and executive acts are mandatory. Providing personal data is necessary to conduct the recruitment processes. The request for the deletion of your personal data means resignation from further participation in recruitment processes and causes the immediate removal of your application. Detailed information concerning processing of your personal data can be found at:





We reserve the right to reply only to selected applications.

Kontakt do pracodawcy:
Yes, no matter what

Yes, but it depends on variety

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Nigerian stocks inched down by 0.01 per cent on Thursday, partly surrendering parts of the paltry gain posted at Wednesdays trade, as investors cringed mostly from consumer goods equities, stoking worries as to how soon the downturn in the market would end.

Greater volumes of shares in beer-maker Nigerian Breweries, UPDC, Vitafoam, GTCO and Dangote Cement were put up for sale than the size investors were willing to buy, putting a bourse that had reported four losses in its last five session under more strain.

However, market breadth, which measures the extent of investor confidence in the market, was positive pitting 18 advancing stocks against 16 laggards.

The benchmark index was down by 5.65 basis points to 37,866.90 points, while market capitalisation slipped to N19.729 trillion at the end of trade.

The index has shed 5.97 per cent since the turn of the year.

TOP FIVE GAINERS

Sovereign Trust led gainers, growing by 10 per cent to close at N0.33. FTN Cocoa gained 9.76 per cent to close at N0.45. CWG rose by 9.65 per cent to N1.25. AIICO leapt to N1.15, notching up 9.52 per cent in the process. Red Star Express completed the top 5, climbing up by 8.04 per cent to N3.36.

TOP FIVE LOSERS

Ikeja Hotel topped the losers table, declining by 9.29 per cent to close at N1.27. UPDC shrank by 9.09 per cent to end at N1.30. WAPIC tumbled to N0.54, losing 8.47 per cent. UPL dipped to N1.41, recording 7.24 per cent loss. Unity Bank closed at N0.59, going down by 6.35 per cent.

TOP FIVE TRADES

A total of 159.997 million shares worth N927.859 million were traded in 3,038 deals.

Sovereign Trust was the most preferred stock with 14.947 million of its shares worth N4.754 million traded in 26 deals. Fidelity had 13.481 million shares priced at N32.159 million exchanged hands in 124 transactions. Wapic had 11.956 million shares valued at N6.497 million traded in 40 deals. UPDC traded 11.245 million shares estimated at N15.263 million in 88 transactions. Courteville traded 9.810 million shares valued at N2.168 million in 13 deals.
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The Nigerian Air Force has said the first batch of the Super Tucano aircraft will arrive Nigeria from the United States at the end of July.

Air Force spokesperson, Edward Gabkwet, a commodore, stated this in a statement on Thursday.

The six anticipated aircraft are part of the 12 fighter jets sold to Nigeria by the U.S. to aid combat actions and air assaults.

They are expected to aid the fight against insecurity in the North-east and other parts of the country.

The Air Force had last year stated that air fighters from Nigeria were already in the U.S. receiving additional training on the usage and the applications of the fighter jets when eventually added to the fleet of combat aircraft.

Mr Gabkwet said an induction ceremony for the newly acquired aircraft will be done in August.

Read full statement:

PRESS RELEASE

FIRST BATCH OF A-29 SUPER TUCANO AIRCRAFT DEPART THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA FOR NIGERIA

The first batch of 6 A-29 Super Tucano aircraft have departed the United States of America on Wednesday, 14 July 2021 enroute Nigeria.

The 6 aircraft will be leapfrogged through 5 countries including Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Spain and Algeria before arriving at their final destination in Nigeria towards the end of July 2021.

An official induction ceremony of the aircraft into the inventory of the Nigerian Air Force is already being planned at a later date in August 2021 to be announced in due course.

The Office of the Director of Public Relations and Information remains open to any inquiry regarding the arrival and induction of the aircraft.

Kindly assist in disseminating this information for the awareness of the general public.

Thank you.

Edward Gabkwet

Air Commodore

Director of Public Relations and Information

Nigerian Air Force

15 July 2021
Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the pro-Biafra group, IPOB, has spoken for the first time from detention since he was arrested in Kenya and brought back to Nigeria about three weeks ago to face treason trial.

He is detained in the facility of Nigerias secret police, the SSS, in Abuja.

Mr Kanus special counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, was allowed to meet with the IPOB leader on Wednesday, inside the detention facility, where he reportedly spoke with him for about three hours.

Mr Ejimakor on Thursday morning shared with PREMIUM TIMES what Mr Kanu told him.

The people that abducted him said that they were told by their sponsors that Kanu was a Nigerian terrorist linked to the Islamic terrorists in Kenya, presumably Al-Shabab.

But after several days when they discovered his true identity, they tended to treat him less badly. Despite that, they told him they felt committed to hand him over to those that hired them, Mr Ejimakor said.

Al-Shabab, a terrorist, jihadist group based in East Africa and Yemen, for decades has been carrying out deadly attacks in Kenya.

The Nigerian government must have contracted a third party, probably outside the knowledge and involvement of the Kenyan government, for the interception of Mr Kanu, going by the revelations from the IPOB leader.

Mr Kanu said he was held incommunicado and chained to a bare floor for eight days in a nondescript private facility in Kenya.

He said no warrant of arrest was shown to him or even mentioned to him, according to Mr Ejimakor.

Kanu was in point of fact tortured and subjected to untold cruel and inhuman treatment in Kenya. He said his abductors disclosed to him that they abducted him at the behest of Nigerian government, the lawyer said.

He was blindfolded and driven to the tarmac very close to the plane without passing through the airport immigration. The plane departed Nairobi at about 12 p.m. and arrived Abuja in the evening.

Kanu was flown to Abuja in the private jet on Sunday 27th June, 2021 from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi and that he was the lone passenger, he added.

Mr Ejimakor said Mr Kanu was interviewed for the first time by three SSS officers, in his presence.

The interview was revealing as it contained certain new allegations that were never heard of before. But all the questions relate directly or indirectly to his status as the leader of IPOB.

I observed that despite what he has passed through, he was in high spirits and looked forward to overcoming the extraordinary rendition that brought him to Nigeria, the lawyer said.

Theres need for trial within trial

In my assessment of how the case now stands, I wager that before any court can subject Kanu to trial for any offenses, it has to first conduct a trial within trial on the grievous incident that forced him to leave Nigeria and the equally grievous incident that forced him back to Nigeria.

No court of law, conscience and equity will overlook those two supervening incidents and proceed to trial, Mr Ejimakor said.

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The Nigerian authorities have accused Mr Kanu of orchestrating the killings of about 60 people, including security officials in the countrys South-east region.

IPOB, which had been proscribed by the Nigerian government, has denied being responsible for the killings.

Even while Mr Kanu is in detention, two Nigerian soldiers were shot dead on Tuesday in Enugu State, the countrys South-east.

The Nigerian Army said in a statement that the soldiers were killed when members of the Eastern Security Network, a security arm of IPOB, attacked a military checkpoint.

Mr Kanu, a British-Nigerian citizen, is known to have been residing in the UK after he jumped bail and fled Nigeria in 2017 during his trial for treasonable felony.

His country home, in the South-east, had earlier been raided by Nigerian security forces before he fled the country.

The Nigerian government is yet to disclose how Mr Kanu was recently arrested.
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The Senate has approved the $8.3 billion (N8,325,536,537) loan request by President Muhammadu Buhari.

They lawmakers also approved a separate 490 million loan request by the president.

The total amount is part of the 2018  2020 external borrowing (rolling) plan of the federal government.

The fund was approved on Thursday after the Senate considered the report of the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts.

Chairman of the committee, Clifford Ordia, presented the report.

President Muhammadu Buhari had in May, asked the National Assembly to approve the loan.

The approval of the loan, he said, would enable projects listed under the 2018-2020 External Borrowing Plan to be financed through sovereign loans from the World Bank, African Development Bank (AfDB), French Development Agency (AFD), Islamic Development Bank, China EXIMBank, China Development Bank, European Investment Bank, European ECA, KfW, lPEX, AFC, India EximBank and International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

In his presentation, Mr Ordia noted that the projects are geared towards the realisation of the Nigerian Economic Sustainability Plan that cut across key sectors such as Infrastructure, Health, Agriculture and Food Security, Energy, Education and Human Capital Development and COVID 19 Response efforts in the six geo-political zones of the country.

The funding agencies are:

World Bank  $796 million

China EXIMBank  $2.9 billion

Industrial Commercial Bank of China  $2.4 billion.

African Development Bank (AfDB)  $104 million.

Africa Growing Together Bank  $20 million

French Development Agency (AFD)  240 million

European Investment Bank  250 million

European ECA, KfW, lPEX, AFC  $1.95 billion

International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)  $60 million

The Senate adopted the committees report and approved the loan thereafter.

More details later
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Nigerian senators on Thursday denied the electoral commission (INEC) the power to transmit results of elections electronically. Rather, the lawmakers empowered the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Assembly to determine the use of electronic transmission in an election.

A total of 52 senators voted in favour of granting the powers to the NCC and NASS while 28 voted against it. A total of 28 senators were absent during the voting process.

The lawmakers are currently considering the Electoral Amendment bill for passage.

The decision to vote individually followed a Point of Order raised by the Senate Minority Leader, Enyinnaya Abaribe, shortly after the lawmakers returned from an executive session.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how the chamber became rowdy after lawmakers disagreed on the amendment of Section 52(3) of the bill.

This section deals with electronic transmission of results during elections.

It states The Commission may transmit results of elections by electronic means where and when practicable.

But the Senate Deputy Whip, Sabi Abdullahi, had moved that the section be amended to read:

The commission may consider electronic transmission provided the national network coverage is adjudged to be adequate and secure by the Nigerian Communications Commission and approved by the National Assembly, he proposed.

Loud arguments and chaos followed when lawmakers who disagreed with the provision began to complain loudly. The rowdiness lasted for over 15 minutes after which the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, called for an executive session.

The vote

When the lawmakers returned, Mr Abaribe called for a division citing Order 73 of the Senate Standing Rule.

This rule allows for individual voting on an issue if senators disagree with the ruling of the Senate President.

READ ALSO: Rowdy session in Senate as lawmakers disagree over electronic transmission of results

Lawmakers were, thereafter, called upon one after the order and asked to vote verbally.

At the end of the exercise, 52 senators, mostly of the All Progressives Congress (APC) voted that NCC and the National Assembly determine where electronic transmission of results will be used and subject to the approval of the National Assembly.

Consideration of the bill is still underway.

The issue of electronic voting has been a major recommendation from Nigerians and the lawmakers at some point attempted to omit that section from the legislation.
The Senate has passed the Electoral Amendment Bill.

The passage of the bill was a sequel to a lengthy consideration of the report of the Senate Committee on Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Kabiru Gaya, chairman of the committee, presented the report.

The bill seeks to repeal and re-enact the 2010 Electoral Act.

It also seeks to resolve issues regarding INECs introduction of modern technologies into the electoral process, particularly accreditation of voters, electronic voting and electronic transmission of results from polling units.

Efforts to get the bill signed into law by the Saraki-led 8th National Assembly were futile with President Muhammadu Buhari rejecting it three times.

It was first rejected in March 2018 where Mr Buhari said the proposed law would usurp the constitutional powers of INEC to decide on election matters, including fixing dates and election order.

In 2018, he rejected it again citing some drafting issues that remain unaddressed following the prior revisions to the Bill. And in December 2018, when the bill was rejected, Mr Buhari said passing a new bill with elections close by could create some uncertainty about the legislation to govern the process.

The legislation was ,however, reintroduced in the ninth Assembly.

In the new bill, the lawmakers make provision for electronic transmission of results  a major recommendation by Nigerians.

Other contentious provisions in the bill are electronic voting, diaspora voting and limit of spending by political parties and candidates.

Passage of the legislation was, however, preceded by quarrels and disagreement among the lawmakers over Section 52(3) of the bill.

The Section states The Commission may transmit results of elections by electronic means where and when practicable.

But the Senate Deputy Whip, Sabi Abdullahi, had moved that the Section be amended to read:

The commission may consider electronic transmission provided the national network coverage is adjudged to be adequate and secure by the Nigerian Communications Commission and approved by the National Assembly, he proposed.

Lawmakers were made to vote individually after the Minority Leader, Enyinnaya Abaribe, called for a division  challenging the amendment.

A total of 52 senators voted in favour while 28 voted against. A total of 28 senators were absent during the voting process.

If the House of Representatives concurs and the bill is assented to by the president, INEC will lose power to solely determine whether election results are transmitted electronically.

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The new bill also empowered INEC to review results declared by an electoral officer under duress.

Section 68 of the legislation reads: the decision of the Returning Officer shall be final on any question arising from or relating to unmarked ballot paper, rejected ballot paper and declaration of scores of candidates and the return of a candidate

Provided that the Commission shall have the power within seven days to review the declaration and return where the Commission determines that the said declaration and return was not made voluntarily or was made contrary to the provisions of the Law, Regulations and Guidelines, and Manual for the election.

While Section 64(2) reads: a decision of the Returning Officer or the Commission under subsection (1) may be reviewed by a Tribunal or Court in an election petition proceeding under this bill.

The limit of election spending was , however, increased in the new bill.

The spending limit in Section 91 of the bill now allows presidential candidates to increase their cash haul from the current N1 billion to N5 billion while governorship candidates can rake in N1 billion from the hitherto N2 million.

For senatorial candidates, they can now legally raise N100 million from the previous N40 million, while candidates to the House of Representative can now accept N70 million from the current N30 million. And for State Assembly, candidates are now free to call up N30 million from the previous N10 million.

After the bill was passed, the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, thanked colleagues for their devotion and dedication in the entire process.

He noted that if any difference is spotted in legislation passed by the House of Representatives, a conference committee will be constituted to harmonise the bill.

He also hoped that the new legislation will improve future elections in Nigeria.
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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched a mobile application platform, where the public can report suspected cases of corruption.

The chairman of the commission, Abdulrasheed Bawa, unveiled the Mobile App named, The Eagle Eye while addressing journalists at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.

Mr Bawa said the mobile app is designed to ease the process of reporting economic and financial crimes in Nigeria.

According to him, the app, which he said developed by an EFCCs staff member, was the first of its kind by any anti-graft agency.

He said The Eagle Eye represents a new experience in information sharing and crime reporting between the public and the EFCC.

Annonymity advantage

A key advantage of the mobile app, according to Mr Bawa, is that it eliminates a direct person-to-person interface in the reporting process for effective whistleblowing.

For us at the EFCC, this event is unique in several ways. First, it is the first of its kind by any law enforcement agency in Nigeria. Second, it is the product of ingenuity by a staff of the commission being an application that was conceived, designed and developed by the EFCC.

Thirdly, it is a clear demonstration of my pledge on assumption of office to run an agency that is technology-driven. The Eagle Eye represents a new experience in information sharing and crime reporting between the public and the EFCC.

Apart from complementing the existing channels for reporting economic crimes, the unique advantage of this application is that it eliminates direct person-to-person interface in the reporting process and guarantees anonymity which is an added incentive to effective whistle blowing.

With the app, those who hitherto were afraid to report corruption cases to the Commission either for fear of being identified by the culprits or having their identities revealed, can now do so with the assurance of full anonymity.

The chairman also urged members of the public and the media to take advantage of the platform in bringing cases of corruption to the knowledge of the EFCC.

I, therefore, appeal to members of the public to take advantage of this App in bringing cases of corruption and economic crimes to the knowledge of the EFCC. Particularly in the case of money laundering through real estate, with the Eagle Eye, Nigerians and non Nigerians can easily take a picture of a property suspected to have been fraudulently or corruptly acquired and report through the app seamlessly.

As media practitioners, you all occupy vantage positions not only in helping to bring the knowledge of this application to the public, but making use of it and helping others to understand how it could be deployed to further the fight against economic crimes including corruption.

With the Eagle Eye, you have at your fingertips a device that will ultimately ensure that there is no hiding place for the corrupt in Nigeria.

Mr Bawa described The Eagle Eye as a user friendly application, with features that can be navigated by any literate person.

On how to use the app, he said, the first step is to download it to your device from either the Apple of Google play store.
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The Nigerian Army says it has launched a manhunt for the soldier who allegedly killed his lover, Jennifer Ugadu, an undergraduate of Niger Delta University, Ammasoma, Bayelsa.

The Director, Army Public Relations Onyema Nwachukwu, said in a statement, on Thursday, it was alleged that the student was shot in her apartment by the suspect now at large.

Mr Nwachukwu, a brigadier-general said there was no place for such barbaric act in the army, adding that the Nigerian army had commiserated with the family of the deceased.

According to him, Nigeria army is an institution that is accountable to the people and would ensure the justice is served.

The NA has taken the allegation seriously and joint investigation has commenced, while effort to profile and ascertain the true identity of the suspect is ongoing.

The NA being a professional and disciplined organisation will continue to uphold and respect the fundamental human rights of citizens as enshrined in the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, said the statement.

Mr Nwachukwu said details of the investigation would be made public.

The NA also wishes to reaffirm that as a force with zero tolerance for any form of criminality, such allegations will not only be investigated, but the culprit will be made to face the full wrath of the law, he said. (NAN)
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The Fletcher School is pleased to announce the appointment of international human rights law expert Chidi Anselm Odinkalu, PhD to a Professor of Practice faculty position for a three-year term beginning in the Fall of 2021.

He will join Fletchers multi-disciplinary faculty focused on preparing tomorrows leaders to use the latest legal, political, economic, and business thinking to generate policies and inform decisions that shape global events.

Chidi Odinkalu is a renowned human rights activist with a distinguished record of public service who has spent more than three decades working at the front line of human rights law and research, development advocacy, international institutional law and governmental policy, remarked Kelly Sims Gallagher, Academic Dean at The Fletcher School.

His profound contributions to the advancement of human rights intersect with Fletchers mission and core values, she added. We are delighted to welcome him to the Fletcher community.

Mr Odinkalus background reflects an extensive record of research, publishing and teaching in the areas of human rights, development law and public policy throughout Africa, Europe and the U.S.

Most recently, he was part of a three-member team that mediated the readmission of The Gambia into the Commonwealth, where he litigated human rights before national and regional courts as well as in transnational contexts.

From 2011 to 2015, he chaired Nigerias National Human Rights Commission, the countrys lead institution for the protection of human rights and promotion of human rights policy. He also worked within human rights philanthropy.

For 10 years prior, he was involved in drafting the Protocol for the African Court on Human and Peoples Rights through to adoption by the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso in 1998.

In 2004, he led the advocacy effort for its entry into force with the creation of the Coalition for the African Court on Human and Peoples Rights. For more than three years, until 1993, Odinkalu was head of legal services for the Civil Liberties Organization in Lagos, where he was responsible for litigation, advocacy and constituent building strategies, as well as managing relationships with the military government and its institutions.

I am honored to join the Fletcher community and look forward to working with Fletchers students, faculty and administration to apply intellectual and strategic innovation to the most pressing challenges in governance and international human rights law, said Odinkalu.

A native of Nigeria born into internal displacement during the countrys civil war, he received his PhD in law from the London School of Economics and Political Science.

Source: https://fletcher.tufts.edu/news-events/news/human-rights-activist-chidi-odinkalu-joins-fletcher-school
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An Oyo State High Court, sitting in Ibadan, on Thursday, ruled that a former governor of Oyo State, Adebayo Alao-Akala, and two others have a case to answer in an N11.5 billion fraud case.

Mr Alao-Akala; Hosea Agboola, former Oyo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters; and Femi Babalola, an Ibadan-based businessman; had filed a no-case submission on the charges levelled against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), after closing its case.

In his ruling, the judge, Olalekan Owolabi, held that the defendants need to enter defence on the alleged charges of conspiracy, obtaining money by false pretences and award of contract without budgetary provision.

Mr Owolabi, while overruling the no-case submission, said the defendants need to enter defence on those charges.

He, however, discharged Mr Alao-Akala on the charges of acquiring property with money allegedly derived from an illegal act and concealing ownership of such property.

The judge said the witnesses called by the prosecutor failed to link evidence to the acquired property, and as well, failed to prove genuine ownership of the property.

Mr Owolabi, therefore, adjourned the case till October 14, 21, and 22 for the defendants to open defence.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalled that the defendants are facing 11 count charges bordering on conspiracy, awarding contracts without budgetary provision, obtaining money by false pretences, acquiring property with money derived from an illegal act and concealing its ownership.

(NAN)
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A state High Court in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, has issued a garnishee order on bank accounts belonging to the All Progressive Congress (APC) after the party failed to pay more than N30 million professional fees to two lawyers who represented it in the election tribunal.

The court had in 2017 ruled that the APC should pay N30,220, 00.00 to the two lawyers who represented the party at the national and state assembly election petition tribunals in 2015 in Akwa Ibom.

The two lawyers are Louis Akanimo and Fidel Albert.

The case had gone to the Court of Appeal, Calabar, and back to Uyo, before the garnishee order was finally issued on July 5 by Charles Ikpe.

A garnishee order from court empowers a creditor to recover a debt by seizing the debtors money in possession of a third party, usually a bank.

One of the lawyers, Mr Albert on Thursday confirmed to PREMIUM TIMES that Wema Bank Plc, in compliance with the court order, has paid them the N30.2 million from the APC account.

Nsikak Akai filed the suit on behalf of the lawyers.

The APC spokesperson in Akwa Ibom, Nkereuwem Enyongekere, told PREMIUM TIMES on Monday that the party was yet to be served with the court ruling.

Mr Albert said he was happy that he was able to reap the fruit of his labour, but that it was sad that a political party like APC whose mantra is change had to wait for a litigation before they could pay lawyers their professional fees.

The APC was very unfair to us. They didnt have a defence in the case and they refused to pay the money, the lawyer told PREMIUM TIMES.

We suffered at the election petition tribunal, I did 22 election petitions for them, left my own practice in Lagos and was in Abuja for seven months. In the end, they owed us that money and had refused to pay since 2015.

And even when we did the first garnishee absolute, they appealed. The case stayed with the Court of Appeal, Calabar, then the court said we didnt give them proper notice and brought the case back to the high court, and yet they didnt show up.

Mr Albert said he and his team won some of the election cases at the election tribunal but that the APC lost at the appeal.

He said he and his team were no longer part of the cases at the appeal.
The Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Ameachi, has said that 20,000 workers would be employed to work on railway stations along Kaduna-Kano modern railway.

Mr Ameachi stated this on Thursday in Kano at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kano-Kaduna railway line.

He said that the project would improve socio-economic activities within the corridor when completed.

This is a directive given by Mr President who said to me that I should make sure that we create employments.

I am happy to inform you that we are going to employ not less than 20,000 workers, he said.

He said that the project covers 203 kilometres double-track standard gauge railway from Kano to Kaduna.

The minister said the rail line traversed Kaduna, Zaria, and Kano cities, with three railway stations both for passengers and freight services at Rigachukun, Zaria, and Kano, with varying capacities and categories.

He explained that the project, which was awarded to China Civil Engineering Construction Company, would be completed within 18 months.

According to him, the rail line would be provided with accessories and special installations including water supply, power, signalling systems, and communication in GSM-R, freight yards, rolling stocks depots, and maintenance workshops.

The ministry will continue to work assiduously in line with Mr Presidents directives, to implement all the corridors within the Nigerian Railway Modernisation project and aggressively expand the railway network, he said.

In his goodwill message, the Chairman, Northern Governors Forum, Gov. Simon Lalong, said that all northern governors would continue to support President Muhammadu Buhari to move the country forward.

We are proud to be in Kano for the groundbreaking ceremony. All governors are with you and will continue to support Mr President to leave a legacy.

We prayed to God to continue to give you wisdom and strength to do what will benefit the country, he said.

Also speaking, Gov. Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano, commended the president for the development projects his administration executed in Kano state and the country at large.

He said he would follow in the footsteps of the president in reflecting such efforts for the development of the state.

Ganduje said that the government did much on ensuring the security of lives and property in the state.

According to him, that was why Kano was one of the most peaceful states in the federation.

He called on the contractor to ensure a quality job and complete it within the timeframe.

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The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that dignitaries at the occasion include Gov. Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi, Ministers of Agriculture, Communication and Digital Economy, Police Affairs, Defence as well as Environment.

The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado-Bayero, other Emirs from within and outside the state, as well as diplomats also attended the event.

(NAN)
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The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, July 20, and Wednesday, July 21, 2021, as public holidays to mark this years Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

This was disclosed in a statement by the permanent secretary, Shuaib Belgore, on Thursday in Abuja.

The Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, congratulates all Muslim faithful and Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora on this occasion.

I call on Muslims to continue to imbibe the spirit of love, peace, kindness, and sacrifice, as exemplified by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him) and to also use the period to pray for peace, unity, prosperity, and the stability of the country, considering the challenges of insecurity we face at the moment. These mainly are bandits in the North West and North Central, insurgents in the North East, kidnappers, armed robbers, ethnic agitators, and sundry criminals in other parts of the country, Mr Aregbesola added.

He assured that the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari is committed to the security of lives and property of every Nigerian, empowering the citizens for successful living, the provisions of social investments programmes and adequate security in the schools, especially with the spate of innocent school children being targets of kidnapping, he added.

Mr Aregbesola, while wishing Muslim faithful a happy Eid-el Kabir celebration, advised all Nigerians to take responsibility by reporting any suspicious individuals and criminal activities to law enforcement agencies, especially during this festival.

He also enjoined on all Nigerians the observance of all Covid-19 protocols, particularly the non-pharmaceutical measures  wearing facemasks, hand washing and social distancing  designed to keep the transmission of the disease at bay. We must all take responsibility for containment of the pandemic during this years festival, he said.

He sympathises with the families of school children who have been kidnapped or suffered one misfortune or another. Our hearts and prayers of comfort are with you, Mr Aregbesola said.
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The Senate on Thursday confirmed the nomination of Sani Adam as a National Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The confirmation of the nominee followed the presentation and consideration of a report by the Senate Committee on INEC.

Mr Sani was confirmed by the Senate despite a petition against him.

His confirmation was initially stepped down by the panel to allow for further investigation into the petition written against him.

Although details of the petition were not disclosed by the panel, PREMIUM TIMES findings show that Mr Sani was sanctioned on more than one occasion for physical assault.

As a professor of law and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mr Adams served as a lecturer in the faculty of law, University of Jos, between 1995 and 2007.

It was within this period he was indicted for engaging in a physical combat with his colleagues, twice.

The first scenario occurred in an open court, where he engaged another lawyer, James Adokwu, in fisticuffs.

And two years after, Mr Adams was suspended, with half his pay, for physically assaulting a colleague in the faculty of law of the University of Jos  claiming that another male lecturer, Adam Ibrahim, was having an illicit affair with his wife, Aishatu.

Chairman of the INEC Committee, Kabiru Gaya, in his presentation, said the request to confirm Mr Adam by President Buhari was made in accordance with Sections 153(1)(f) and 154(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

He explained that after a thorough investigation into the petition against him, the committee found out that it was paltry and that the reason for the termination (not dismissal as alleged by the petitioner) was not based on gross misconduct but on the rationalisation policy of the federal government.

The court judgement was based on whether or not his appointment should have been terminated and this has nothing to do with his integrity or moral uprightness, Mr Gaya said.

The panel recommended that the nominee be confirmed.

Mr Adam was, thereafter, confirmed as a national commissioner of INEC in accordance with the Committees recommendation.
The Senate has passed a bill that seeks to establish an Electoral Offences Commission bill.

The bill, if signed into law, will empower the commission to investigate electoral offences, prosecute electoral offenders and maintain records of all persons investigated and prosecuted.

The legislation also prescribes a 20-year jail term for offenders found guilty of snatching ballot boxes during elections.

It also proposes that any candidate or agent who damages or snatches ballot boxes, ballot papers or election materials before, during and after an election without the permission of the election official in charge of the polling station, shall be jailed for 20 years or fined N40 million.

The passage of the bill on Tuesday was sequel to the presentation and consideration of the report of the Senate Committee on INEC.

The chairman of the committee, Kabiru Gaya (APC, Kano South), who presented the report, said the bill became imperative in view of INECs inability to prosecute electoral offenders in accordance with the provisions of a section 149 and 150(2) of the Electoral Act (as Amended).

By the foregoing statistics, it is unrealistic to expect INEC to conduct free, fair and credible election and simultaneously prosecute offences arising from the same elections.

Indeed, INEC has at several occasions admitted that it lacks the wherewithal to cleanse the system. Its failure to prosecute even one per cent 870,000 and over 900,000 alleged electoral Offences in 2011 and 2015 general elections respectively is an affirmation of the necessity for a paradigm shift on how we deal with electoral offences, he said.

Committees recommendations

In Clause 12 of the bill, the Senate approved at least five years imprisonment or a fine of at least N10 million naira or both, for any officer or executives of any association or political party that engages in electoral fraud that contravenes the provisions of clauses 221, 225(1)(2)(3) and (4) and 227 of the 1999 Constitution as amended.

They adopted 20 years imprisonment for any person involved in ballot box snatching, supplying voters card to persons without due authority, unauthorised printing of voters register, illegal printing of ballot paper or electoral document, and importation of any device or mechanism by which ballot paper or results of elections may be extracted, affected or manipulated, and voting at an election when he is not entitled to vote.

The Senate also approved 10 years imprisonment for any person who sells a voters card, or in possession of any voters card bearing the name of another person, or prepares and prints a document or paper purporting to be a register of voters or a voters card.

Other recommendations are:

* A term of at least 10 years upon conviction for any election official who willfully prevents any person from voting at the polling station, willfully rejects or refuses to count any ballot paper validly cast, willfully counts any ballot paper not validly cast, gives false evidence or withholds evidence, and announces or declares a false result at an election.

* At least 15 years imprisonment for any judicial officer or officer of a court or tribunal who corruptly perverts electoral justice, during or after an election.

*At least 15 years jail term or N30 million naira fine for any security personnel or election official engaged by the Independent National Electoral Commission or State Electoral Commission who attempts to influence the outcome of an election.

* In addition, any person found to disturb the public peace on Election Day by playing musical instruments, singing or holding an assembly where a polling station is located shall be guilty of breaching electoral peace and liable to six months imprisonment or a fine of at least N100,000 or both.

* Also, any person acting for himself or on behalf of any organisation or political party or candidate or his agent with the intention of prejudicing the result of an election, damage or defame, in any manner, the character of any candidate in an election or his family member by making, saying, printing, airing or publishing in the print or electronic media false accusation on any matter shall be guilty of serious corrupt practice and liable on conviction to a term of at least ten years or a fine of ten million naira or both.

* Any person soliciting or giving votes for or against any political party or candidate at an election, or found to affix campaign materials on any private house, public buildings or structures, or prints posters and banners without the name and address of the political party to which the candidate or person belongs contravenes sub-clause (1) to (5) and guilty of an offence and liable to at least five years or a fine of at least ten million naira, or both.

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The report stated that the National Electoral Offences Commission Bill, 2021, prohibits any campaign against national interest.

It provides a 20-years jail term without option of fine for any person who propagates information that undermines the independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, or unity of the federation.

It prescribes 15 years imprisonment for any person who conveys voters to and from the poll; and three years imprisonment for any employee who directly or indirectly exerts undue influence on a voter in his employ.

While any person who provides false information in any material particular to a public officer will be jailed for three to five years.

And 10 years imprisonment, or at least N20 million fine or both for any person who uses hate speech to stir up ethnic, religious or racial hatred, social or political insecurity or violence against anyone or group of persons.

The lawmakers thereafter, adopted the committees report for the approval of the establishment of the National Electoral Offences Commission.
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The Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF) has raised concerns over the proposed ownership structure of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), as prescribed in the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB).

The governors, who said they support the unbundling and commercialisation of the NNPC, faulted the part of the legislation that places its ownership on the federal government.

This was contained in a communique issued at the end of its 35th teleconference meeting on Wednesday, and signed by the chairman of the forum, Kayode Fayemi.

The PIB, recently passed by the National Assembly, seeks to create the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited, a corporate entity incorporated under the Companies and Allied Matters Act.

It provides that the ownership of all shares in the incorporated NNPC shall be vested with the government, and the Ministries of Finance and Petroleum shall hold the shares on behalf of the government. The shares are not transferable.

The NGF recommended that given that the corporation is owned by the three tiers of government, the new incorporated entity (NNPC Limited) should be owned by a vehicle that holds the interest of the three tiers of government the institution that is currently positioned to carry out this mandate is the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA).

The proposed three per cent share of oil revenue to host communities and 30 per cent share of profit for the exploration of oil and gas in the basins will be responded to at relevant channels including the National Assembly and the National Economic Council (NEC), he said.

The governors also called for consensual action to prevent a third wave of COVID-19 in the country. This was sequel to an update from the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-olu.

They called on all state governors to revive their COVID-19 protocols and collaborate with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to take appropriate and immediate actions to flatten the transmission curve.

The NGF also discussed Executive Order 10 and Financial Autonomy for the State Legislature and Judiciary.

they approved a common template for the implementation of the Memorandum of Action signed with the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) and the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASUN) on the implementation of financial autonomy for the State legislature and judiciary.

Other matters

In the communique, Mr Fayemi noted that the governors are concerned about certain proposed amendments to the Principal Stamp Duties Act by the Nigerian Senate.

The amendment seeks to remove the powers to administer and collect stamp duties from the relevant tax authorities (Federal Inland Revenue Service or State Internal Revenue Service, depending on the nature of the transaction) to the Nigeria Postal Service.

The provisions of Section 163 of the 1999 Constitution requires that Stamp Duties on transactions between a company and an individual should be paid to the FIRS and returned to the State of derivation. The Forum resolved to engage with the National Assembly on the matter, NGF said.

And on the sale of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) Assets, the Forum said it will take a position on the planned privatisation of the assets listed by the Bureau for Public Enterprise (BPE) without due consultation with State governments who are shareholders of the company.

NDPHC, they said, is incorporated under the Companies and Allied Matters Act as a private limited liability company with shareholding fully subscribed to by the federal, state and local governments with a mandate to manage National Integrated Power Projects (NIPP) in the country.
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Maternal instinct made a mother take the harrowing decision of throwing her daughter to safety off a ledge close to a high-rise burning building set ablaze by looters at ground level amid widespread violence in parts of South Africa.

A petrified 26-year-old Naledi Manyoni held her held head in shock as she released her grip on the 2-year-old girl after she made her way to the first floor of the building with the hope that bystanders would catch her.

They kept screaming throw her, she said of the rescuers, adding that she had to concede because leaving her baby behind was not an option for her.

The footage of the scene showing the brave mother, who told reporters she lived on the 16th floor of the building with her fiance, has since caught online frenzy.

After throwing her, I held my head in shock, but they caught her, Reuters reported Ms Manyoni as saying outside the building as her daughter, dressed in a red coat and hood, sat on her shoulders.

She kept saying, Mama you threw me down there. She was scared, she added as the girl babbled and clapped her hands.

What was important was for my daughter to be out of that situation I couldnt escape alone and leave her behind, she noted.

Riots have broken across South Africa with thieves looting shopping malls and other businesses in the major cities in the southern African nation.

Six days of mass looting and rioting in multiple locations across the industrial centre of Johannesburg and other cities such as Vosloorus have taken the death toll to 72 as of Tuesday.

The unrest was an aftermath of the jailing of former President Jacob Zuma last week for contempt of court

Local police said that most of the deaths relate to stampedes that occurred during incidents of looting of shops.

They also said that 12 people had been identified to have allegedly provoked the riots, and that a total of 1,234 people had been arrested.

Authorities have ramped up the deployment of soldiers to 5,000 as the police struggle to quell days of looting and violence.

President Cyril Ramaphosa said the government is considering boosting troop numbers even more.
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The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) has approved a template for the realisation of financial autonomy for the judicial and legislative arms of government.

Rising from a meeting the forum held on Wednesday in Abuja, Ekiti State governor and chairman of the NGF, Kayode Fayemi, said the template was developed after a meeting with state Attorneys General and Commissioners for Finance, which held in June.

The Forum (NGF) has approved a common template for the implementation of the Memorandum of Action signed with the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) and the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASUN) on the implementation of financial autonomy for the State legislature and judiciary, the communique, issued at the end of the governors meeting, read, on Wednesday.

JUSUN members had embarked on a nationwide strike on April 6, in agitation for the judiciarys financial freedom from the executive, particularly at the state level, where the state governors only fund the two other arms of government as they please.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that JUSUN had rejected the 36 state governors earlier proposed template for the implementation of judiciarys financial autonomy being demanded.

The union maintained, after its May 8 meeting, that the provisions of the constitution cannot be negotiated, doctored, manipulated and therefore, must be obeyed.

But the union, alongside its parliamentary counterpart, PASUN, later signed a Memorandum of Action (MoA) with the federal government and the governors on May 21.

The signing of the MoA led to the suspension of the JUSUN strike on June 9, with the union expressing hope that it would be implemented to the letter.

The MoA stipulates the template all the 36 states would adopt for the implementation of the financial autonomy of both the judiciary and the parliament at the state level.

It is not clear if the template adopted by the governors is agreeable to the one signed by the unions.

MoA

Highlights of the MoA signed between the governors and the unions, last, read in part, The governments of the respective States shall credit the Accounts of each State House of Assembly and each State Judiciary with the pro-rata amount due each of the two arms of Government under the 2021 Appropriation for each State in accordance with B(iii) of this Memorandum of Action commencing from April 2021 State Allocation from the State Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) as a sign of good faith.

And the B(iii) in reference, says, whenever there is Revenue shortfall, lower than the Budgeted fund, the monthly allocations to each arm of government shall reflect a percentage of the appropriated sum or an irreducible minimum amount to be allocated every month for the purpose of meeting its costs whichever is higher. This percentage will reflect as 100 per cent in Personnel Cost. The Running Cost and Capital Cost will be pro-rata of Revenue performance as per the State Appropriation Law.

Upon fulfilment of the above,  the ongoing Industrial Action shall be suspended with immediate effect from the date of the agreements contained in this Memorandum of Action (MOA), provided item D above is effected immediately and others effected within the 45 days window as prescribed in this MOA.

The framework adds, annually upon the determination of budget ceilings or envelopes from the Budget Committee of the State, anchored by the Budget Office of the State headed by the Commissioner in-charge, each arm of government  Executive, Judiciary, Legislature, acting through its own Budget and/or Funds Management Committee, shall prepare its Budget Estimates/Details and submit same to the State House of Assembly;

There shall also be established in each State a State Account Allocation Committee (SAAC) to be given legislative backing in the various Fund Management Laws and charged with the responsibility to oversee the distribution of available resources to each arm of Government. Membership to reflect the template of the FAAC.

Every State Commissioner of Finance and State Accountant General shall on a monthly basis furnish the Committee with the revenue performance of the State within a stipulated timeline not exceeding 7 days after each FAAC meeting. Based on the revenue receipt, evaluations and the needs of each arm, the Committee shall work out an appropriate budget release based on the Appropriation for each Arm of Government for that year.

The Presidential Implementation Committee shall give a biweekly appraisal and follow-up.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has granted emergency-use-authorisation for three COVID-19 vaccines in Nigeria.

The three additional vaccines approved are Moderna, AstraZeneca and the Sputnik V vaccine yet to receive approval from the World Health Organisation.

The NAFDAC director-general, Mojisola Adeyeye, announced this at a briefing in Abuja on Thursday.

Mrs Adeyeye said the approved AstraZeneca vaccines are from Korea due to the stall in procurement of those manufactured under licence by Serum Institute of India, and were initially administered in the country.

NAFDAC is announcing the approval of Moderna, AstraZeneca vaccines and conditional approval of Sputnik V vaccine.

The NAFDAC Vaccine Committee has been carefully assessing several vaccines despite the fact the vaccines have been approved by stringent regulatory countries or have received WHOs Emergency Use Listing (EUL), she said.

She said Moderna and AstraZeneca AZD1222 vaccines have received WHO EUL listing and were given expedited approvals.

NAFDAC had previously approved AstraZeneca (India), Pfizer BioNTech and Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines.

Controversial Sputnik V

Although the Sputnik V was the first COVID-19 vaccine to be registered for use in any nation, it

is yet to receive approval for emergency use from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the WHO.

Approval by the WHO is crucial for widespread distribution through the COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access (COVAX) initiative, which is providing vaccine doses for lower-income nations.

Mrs Adeyeye said despite the vaccine not getting approval from the health regulatory bodies, the agency had done a thorough assessment of the vaccine and found that the benefits outweigh the risks.

Sputnik V is yet to receive the EUL approval and therefore was subjected to full six-months review by NAFDAC. The agency did a thorough assessment of each vaccine and were found to have the quality, safety and efficacy attributes, with the benefits far outweighing the risks, she said.

Despite the absence of approval from the EMA or the WHO, several countries, including South Korea, Argentina and India, are already manufacturing Sputnik V. India also plans to pump out at least 850 million doses, to help speed up the vaccination of its embattled population.

Many other countries, such as Hungary and Iran, are importing Sputnik V, and it has become a key plank of their vaccination campaigns.

Expected Vaccines

Having exhausted the initial four million doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccines delivered in March 2021 through COVAX, Nigeria is expecting additional 41,282,770 doses by the end of September.

The expected dose is a combination of the AstraZeneca vaccines, Pfizer-Bio-N Tech/Moderna and Johnson & Johnson (J&J) COVID-19 vaccines.

The Executive Director of Nigerias Immunisation agency, Faisal Shuaib, at a briefing on Tuesday said the vaccines are expected from COVAX while the Jassen vaccines are expected from the African Union Commission.

He said: We have received communication for the delivery of the following vaccine shipments in the coming months. 3,924,000 doses of Oxford/AstraZeneca/Moderna by end of July or early August 2021 from the COVAX facility.

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3,930,910 doses of Pfizer-Bio-N Tech/Moderna COVID-19 vaccine in August from the COVAX facility donated by the United States Government, 3,577,860 doses of Pfizer-Bio-N Tech/Moderna COVID-19 vaccine in Q3 from the COVAX facility.

29,850,000 doses of Johnson & Johnson (Jassen) COVID-19 vaccine by the end of September will arrive in batches from the African Union Commission.

He also said 3,938,945 eligible persons across 36 states and FCT have so far been vaccinated.

The AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine is given in double doses. A person is required to come back for a second shot, some weeks after taking the first jab.

2,534,205 people have been vaccinated for the first dose and 1,404,205 have received their second dose of the vaccine, he said.
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A female university student in Bayelsa State, Nigerias South-south, has been killed by her lover, a Nigerian soldier, who is said to have suspected that she was cheating on him.

The 23-year-old student, Jennifer Ugadu, was in her 200 level in the Faculty of Education at the Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, before she was brutally shot dead by the soldier, identified by the police as James Matol.

The police in Bayelsa State said on Tuesday in a statement that Miss Ugadus body was discovered on July 13 in her room after her friend stumbled on a WhatsApp chat in which the soldier admitted killing the student.

Mr Matol had vowed to commit suicide after killing her, according to the police.

She was shot dead in her flat, the police spokesperson in the state, Asinim Butswat said in the statement.

The slain student was last seen with her soldier boyfriend on July 11, the police said.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army said it was investigating the incident.

The army spokesperson, Onyema Nwachukwu said in a statement on Thursday that the army has zero tolerance for any form of criminality.

Mr Nwachukwu, a brigadier general, said the killing would be investigated and the soldier made to face the full wrath of the law.

The NA (Nigerian Army) being a professional and disciplined organisation will continue to uphold and respect the Fundamental Human Rights of citizens as enshrined in the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he added.
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The House of Representatives is currently in an executive session following a rowdy session over the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB).

The Senate had earlier adopted the report of the conference committee that recommended three per cent of operation expenditure of oil companies for host communities in the PIB.

The Senate committee of the whole adopted the report despite protest from a senator from the South-south.

Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa) protested the recommendation. However, Senate President Ahmad Lawan put the report to voice vote and it passed despite strong nays.

On Thursday, as soon as the Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila entered the chamber, he called for an executive session.

Boma Goodhead (PDP, Rivers), Chinyere Igwe (PDP, Rivers) and others could be seen arguing among themselves.

Details later
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The Federal Executive Council FEC on Wednesday approved N754 million for the procurement of communication gadgets and construction of a command and control centre for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, disclosed this while briefing correspondents at the State House at the end of the cabinet meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) got approval for capital projects worth N754, 048, 161.25 and these are mainly for the supply of communication gadgets and a command and control centre, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) quoted Mr Shehu as saying.

This came barely three months after the FEC approved about N805 million for the procurement of equipment to enhance security at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja.

About N29.575 billion was allocated to the EFCC in the 2021 national budget.

Explaining the essence of the fresh N754 million approved for the commission by FEC, Mr Shehu said it would assist to boost the fight against insecurity and financial crimes in the country.

He added that the approval was also aimed at equipping the EFFC with a defensive and offensive cybersecurity system.

This is to enable the EFCC to comply with modern-day investigative techniques and improve its operational efficiency and support the administration of the criminal justice system in the country.

According to the presidential aide, the council also approved N1.5billion for the construction of a network of roads at the Federal Ocean Terminal at Onne Port in Rivers following a memo submitted by the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi.

He disclosed that the council also approved N161.8million as a variation for the consultancy fee for the Biu Mega Water Supply project in Borno.
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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has warned that hotel owners can be charged as accomplices or be jailed for accommodating internet fraudsters also referred to as Yahoo boys to use their premises for cybercrime activities.

The EFCC issued the warning in a statement posted via its verified Facebook page on Wednesday.

Citing Section 3 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, the EFCC said hoteliers could get a five-year jail term for allowing cybercriminals to use their facilities to perpetrate fraud.

The hotel owner perhaps is ignorant of the fact that he could become an accomplice and liable for allowing his premises to be used for cybercrime, in contravention of section 3 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act.

The section provides that, a person who, being the occupier or is concerned in the management of any premises, causes or knowingly permits the premises to be used for any purpose which constitutes an offence under this Act is guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term of not less than 5 years without the option of a fine.

The commission warns hoteliers from allowing their premises and facilities to become havens for cybercrime.

Adherence to the rule of law remains a core principle moderating the activities of the EFCC and the Executive Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa, has repeatedly said the agency under his watch will not deviate from the norm.

The anti-graft agency said this in reaction to media reports of how its operatives raided a Lagos hotel and violently broke into guests rooms.

It was reported that some guests at the hotel were naked when the operatives broke in. The agents were also said to have threatened to shoot the hotel management while demanding the master access cards to the rooms.

No break-in, no molestation and no violence

Reacting to the reports, however, the EFCC in a statement on Wednesday, said there was no break-in, no molestation and no violence of any kind during the operation.

In the statement titled EFCC Operation At Parkitonian Hotel  The True Story, the commission said the raid was carried out by its operatives from the Lagos zonal office of the commission, after weeks of surveillance of criminal activities of suspected internet fraudsters in the hotel named Parkitonian Hotel, in the Lekki area of the state.

It said about 30 suspects were arrested with 24 already confessed to their involvement in cybercrimes and related criminal activities.

In the early hours of Tuesday July 13, 2021 a team of operatives from the Lagos Zonal Office of the Commission, acting on verified intelligence on the activities of a suspected syndicate of internet fraudsters carried out an operation at Parkitonian Hotel in the Lekki area of Lagos.

During the sting operation which was the culmination of weeks of surveillance during which the rooms occupied by the suspects were identified, 30 suspects were arrested with 24 of them already confessing involvement in cybercrimes and related activities.

There was no incident as the hotel management served with the relevant warrant offered access to the operatives, to carry out their lawful duties.

However, in the course of the operation, the operatives encountered women in some of the rooms who pleaded nudity to stop them from arresting their targets. This has lately become the antics of cyber fraudsters who procure ladies to plead nudity as a decoy, to allow their consort destroy incriminating items in their devices before arrest.

The commission will not fall for such gimmick which is intended to prevent it from carrying out its lawful duties, the statement read in part.
The trial of Gibril Massaquoi, the Sierra Leonean former Revolutionary United Front commander accused of committing war crimes in Liberias civil wars, will return to Liberia, likely in August.

The Pirkanmaa District Court in Tampere, Finland, where Massaquoi was arrested in March 2020, made the surprise announcement this week and said it would hand down a judgement early next year.

The court was initially scheduled to rule on the case this autumn.

The trial was upended in late May when defence lawyers presented new evidence that they said brought into question the trustworthiness of dozens of civilians and former combatants who testified that they had witnessed Massaquois atrocities.

Massaquoi, faces charges including dozens of murders, eight rapes as well as aggravated war crimes and aggravated human rights violations dating back to the early 2000s.

He has denied all charges claiming he was not on the scenes when the crimes took place.

In February the court moved from Finland to Liberia and Sierra for hear from the witnesses. NN was not in the court in Tampere in May but has seen monitoring of the proceedings provided by Civitas Maxima.

Defence lawyer Kaarle Gummerus told the four-judge panel that the defence had received notebooks from the investigations of staff of Global Justice Research Project, the Liberia-based justice advocates.

The defence said the notebooks gave them cause to question the trustworthiness of prosecution witnesses. Gummerus told the court the witnesses had been improperly identified by GJRP before the Finnish police investigation began.

That prompted the defence to interview more witnesses who made startling claims.

The conclusion is that [GJRP] has been asking these people to testify against Gibril, and for some kind of reward, Gummerus told the court. This question is so severe that we must take actions and take the people and witnesses to testify about the GJRPs role in this trial. We are nothing short but obliged to do that, to interview people of the role of this organisation.

Gummerus said it has been absolutely crucial that [GJRP and its Swiss partner Civitas Maxima] have been looking for witnesses. Without their deeds the police could not have been able to find at all persons in such numbers. The theme is that the witnesses in the investigations cannot be trusted.

Prosecutor Tom Laitinen told the court that they too would be obliged to act as well. We must bring in new evidence.

The defence has named 4 witnesses to call in Liberia. The prosecution has named 16. The parties have also presented further documentary evidence.

The court is likely to also explore one of the major questions in the trial that has been a key point of questioning of witnesses in Sierra Leone and Finland: Did Massaquoi escape the safe house where he was being held in Freetown in July 2003 to command a battalion that committed atrocities in Waterside in Monrovia in the final days of Liberias civil conflict?

Massaquoi was under UN protection in Freetown for his role as a key informant to the Special Court for Sierra Leone. His testimony was instrumental in the convictions of key RUF commanders and former Liberian president Charles Taylor.

Several witnesses testified that supervision of the safehouse was lax and the defence was unable to close off the possibility that Massaquoi travelled to Liberia.

If the court rules that Massaquoi did escape the safehouse to commit war crimes on behalf of Taylor, the man on whom he was informing, it would mark an extraordinary failure on the part of the Special Court.

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The role of GJRP and Civitas has consistently been raised by defence lawyers in international cases against ex-combatants in Liberias civil wars. Under-resourced defence teams have been overwhelmed by grisly and emotive testimony from more than a hundred victims in trials and investigations in the U.S. and Europe.

There is an increasingly forceful campaign against the justice activists has including several accusatory news stories  with no named sources  claiming that the activists have paid witnesses to lie.

Hassan Bility, head of GJRP would not comment on the ongoing Massaquoi trial but he recently responded to the same accusation from Alieu Kosiah, the former Ulimo commander convicted of war crimes in Switzerland in June.

We know that there are many people against us, so they create and fabricate lies, Bility said. The same thing they did when some of them worked with the TRC, they think thats what were doing here. You know, I will tell you one thing: when a mans mind is weak, that man thinks that thread of weakness runs through every other mans head. Thats not the situation.

If you bribed people, dont expect everybody to be like you. You have no evidence. How dare you accuse people without evidence? Thats ridiculous!

For years alleged war criminal commanders associated with ULIMO, NPFL and other factions have been united together in denying any crime, and also accusing Civitas Maxima and the Global Justice and Research Project of committing themselves criminal acts to subvert the course of justice in its attempt to find justice for victims of war crimes committed in Liberia, said Alain Werner of Civitas by email.

We have never answered any of these specific baseless accusations made over and over against us because we believe it should be for judges to evaluate evidence, and any accusation against us should be made in court, not in newspapers. We will not be intimidated and we will carry on our mission on behalf of the Liberian victims of war crimes.

This story was a collaboration with New Narratives as part of the West African Justice Reporting Project.
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A total of 30 young Nigerians including a 17-year-old alumnus of Meiran Community Senior High School, Lagos, a government-owned secondary school, Ekene Ezeunala, have received scholarships to study at various universities in the United States of America.

The beneficiaries took part in the 2021 edition of Opportunity Fund Programme by EducationUSA, a United States Department of State network of more than 430 international student advising centres operating in about 175 countries and territories across the world,

A statement issued on Thursday by an information specialist at the public affairs section of the U.S Consulate General in Lagos, Temitayo Famutimi, noted that the scholarship opportunities are worth a total of $4.35 million dollars amounting to more than N1.644 billion, using the official exchange rate of one American dollar to N411.

According to the statement, six of the beneficiaries including Master Ezeunala, will be studying various undergraduate programmes while three others are to enrol for Masters programmes and 21 of them are awarded scholarships for doctoral studies.

The programmes of study include Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, Bioinformatics, Computer Science and Engineering while the list of the universities they will be attending include the renowned Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Columbia University, Princeton University, Purdue University, University of Pennsylvania, among others.

Counselling

Speaking during a reception held in their honour on Thursday, the U.S Consul General, Claire Pierangelo, urged them to make the most of their opportunity to get a top-notch education while gaining first-hand experience of American life and culture.

She said: I congratulate each one of you on your tremendous success. Your success is evidence of your leadership, academic performance, and the great potential young Nigerians hold for the future of this country.

This is a very important step in your life. I strongly encourage you to maximize this opportunity. This is not just in reference to your education as you have proven yourselves to be academically outstanding students. I am also referring to your chance to broaden your horizons and embrace the diversity of people around you and learn, not just about America, but also about other cultures.

In his reaction, Master Ezeunala, who received full funding to study Computer Science and Mathematics at Columbia University, New York City, described the opportunity as a truly life-changing experience.

It opened up a whole new world of opportunities and resources I never knew were available to me, Ezeunala added.

Also commenting, another beneficiary and the first student to earn a first class degree in the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Urinrin Otite, said the programme was what she needed to achieve her dream of studying in the U.S.

And I would recommend reaching out to EducationUSA as the perfect first step to anyone hoping to study in the US, said Otite, who will be pursuing a doctoral degree in Civil Engineering with a research focus on resilient and sustainability of structures and infrastructure systems at Lehigh University, Pennsylvania.

13,762 Nigerians studying in the U.S

Meanwhile, the statement added that in the latest Institute of International Education Open Doors Report says Nigeria retains its top ranking as the number one source of African students studying in the United States with about 13,762 Nigerians studying at more than 1,000 U.S. colleges and universities.

The development, education experts maintain, is an indictment on the government of Nigeria over what they described as its poor investment in the education sector.

They described the exodus of young Nigerians abroad for academic opportunities as capital flight, and urged the government to reposition the nations education system to be qualified to attract quality foreign staff and students.
Global Health experts have called on world leaders to improve funding for Tuberculosis (TB) in a bid to reduce the burden of the disease.

The experts who spoke during a virtual press briefing on Thursday said more investment is required for the world to produce a safe and effective vaccine against the disease by 2025.

In a statement issued after the briefing, the executive director of the Stop TB Partnership, Lucica Ditiu, said the Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine, which was first administered on July 18, 1921 is the only existing vaccine against TB.

Ms Ditiu said it is time for world leaders to deliver new, effective, safe, equitable and affordable TB vaccines.

The campaigner said; What the world has achieved in the past year with regards to the development of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines is astonishing and worth celebrating,, she said.

Now is the time to invest the same level of energy and funding into developing new vaccines for another airborne, deadly infectious diseasetuberculosis.

Tuberculosis burden

Tuberculosis is a contagious disease that is caused by a bacterium (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) that often affects the lungs.

In 2019, an estimated 10 million people fell ill from TB, and the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that in 2020, nearly two million people died from the disease.

The worst impacts are felt in some of the poorest parts of the world and among vulnerable groups.

Currently, there is only one vaccine in existence against TB, the BCG vaccine which is 100 years old.

The vaccine has proven effective against TB meningitis and in protecting against severe TB in infants and young children.

Ms Ditiu, however, said the BCG vaccine offers variable and mostly poor protection against lung disease in adolescents and adults, the populations that are more likely to spread TB in the community.

Producing new vaccine

David Lewinsohn, chair of Stop TB Partnership, said new and more effective vaccines that can prevent TB in adolescents and adults are needed to interrupt ongoing transmission.

He said in 2018, world leaders committed to developing new TB vaccines but failed to deliver the necessary investments for it.

Despite our best efforts, we are still falling short of targets set at the 2018 United Nations High-Level Meeting on Tuberculosis, and at this rate, we will not meet the Sustainable Development Goals target (SDG 3.3) of ending TB by 2030, he said.

He noted that more than 15 TB vaccines have been in development for 15 years, but none of them have been approved for use.

He said recent significant trial results suggest new and effective TB vaccines can be developed in the coming years if appropriate investments are made.

With multiple vaccine candidates preparing for late-stage efficacy trials and next-generation vaccines based on mRNA[2] and other novel platforms on the way, there has never been a better time to invest in TB vaccine research and development, said Lewinsohn.

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Caroll Nawina, a TB survivor and advocate for policy change at national, regional and international levels, said effective vaccines are critical to ending the TB epidemic.

But having a vaccine is not enough if it is not affordable and accessible to all. The distribution of COVID-19 vaccines has clearly shown the inequalities and inequities of a system that favors the rich, she said.

We will not accept such a situation in TB, and we must ensure future TB vaccines reach those most in need.

Huge funding gap

Ms Ditiu lamented the already existing funding gap in producing a new and effective TB Vaccine for the world.

She said only US$117 million was invested in TB vaccine research in 2019, against a target of at least US$550 million per year for four years to achieve the 2025 deadline.

By comparison, COVID-19 vaccine research received over US$100 billion in funding over the past year, she said.

Today, we call on the world to provide sufficient financial resources and political will by 2023 to allow for the rollout of an effective TB vaccine by 2025. Lessons learned from recent pandemics clearly show that it is possible, Ms Ditiu said.

Improved local funding

Speaking at a press conference to announce the 2021 National TB Conference, Bethrand Odume, the executive director of KNCV Nigeria said Nigeria accounts for only 30 per cent of its TB funding.

Mr Odume explained that 70 per cent of TB funding comes from international partners and donors.

The conference, themed; Sustaining a Resilient TB Response in Nigeria: Addressing the impact of COVID-19 and other Diseases, is scheduled to be held at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, between November 9 and 11, 2021.

Funding constraints have remained the key challenge towards combating this deadly disease in Nigeria and over the past five years, it has been largely driven by external funding sources, he said.

He said to meet the estimated funding gap along with other pertinent issues, there is a need to create an avenue to foster access to research, technologies, innovations and build collaborations for TB control in Nigeria.

He said that the National TB Conference 2021 will provide a platform for all stakeholders to deliberate on the magnitude and dimensions of the effects of the pandemic on TB control in Nigeria.

Of equally great concern is the increasing gap in access to TB services to the paediatric population and other vulnerable groups.

Also, people who have TB are usually more vulnerable to other infections including being at a higher risk of developing complications from COVID-19 due to pre-existing lung damage.

In his address, the executive secretary of the Stop TB Partnership Nigeria, Ayodele Awe, said the conference would create an avenue to stimulate the generation of new collaborations for home grown TB research and innovation.

He said it would also improve synergy, collaboration and integration between TB, HIV and other services as well as create awareness and promote best practice in TB programming in the country.

Also, the chairman of the Scientific Committee, Lawal Umar, said the conference would focus on Eight thematic areas that would x-ray relevant topics surrounding the fight against TB in the country.

M Umar said some of the thematic areas include, political commitment, domestic resource mobilisation, impacts and lessons learnt for TB control, TB in correctional facilities, IDP camps and other vulnerable settings.

He encouraged scientists, health experts, academias to send in abstracts ahead of the conference.
A look at the order paper was enough for one to know it would be a busy day for the senators.

The lawmakers were preparing for their annual recess or summer break as some of them call it. And so they didnt mind staying extra hours to deliberate on some issues of national importance before the break.

While they looked forward to a busy and fruitful day, not many of them could foresee drama and quarrels that later occurred.

Having considered four other items of the day, they moved to consider the report of its committee on INEC on the electoral amendment bill.

The legislation

The bill, much anticipated, seeks to repeal and re-enact the 2010 Electoral Act as well as resolve issues concerning INECs introduction of modern technologies into the electoral process, particularly accreditation of voters, electronic voting and electronic transmission of results from polling units.

The Bukola Saraki-led eight assembly passed the bill three times but President Muhammadu Buhari rejected it all these times.

It was first rejected in March 2018 when Mr Buhari said the proposed law would usurp the constitutional powers of INEC to decide on election matters, including fixing dates and election order.

In 2018, Mr Buhari rejected it again citing some drafting issues that remain unaddressed following the prior revisions to the Bill.

And in December 2018, when the bill was rejected, Mr Buhari said passing a new bill with elections close by could create some uncertainty about the legislation to govern the process.

The legislation was, however, reintroduced in the ninth Assembly and a joint committee on INEC (of the Senate and House of Representatives) was set up to work on the legislation.

Consideration, drama

The chairman of the committee, Kabiru Gaya, presented the report.

In his presentation, he informed the Senate that Nigerians made many proposals, most of which the committee tried to input in the bill.

He also said the National Assembly constitution amendment was ongoing and issues like diaspora voting would be addressed.

Then the lawmakers started clause-by-clause consideration of the bill in the Committee of the Whole  a process which was going smoothly until they got to Section 52(3) of the bill.

This part deals with electronic transmission of results of elections, which was one of the major recommendations from Nigerians including INEC.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how the lawmakers had attempted to reject and omit proposals and key priority amendments canvassed by citizens during the public hearings  some of which include the use of electronic transmission of results of an election and expenses for presidential candidates.

Section 52(3) reads The Commission may transmit results of elections by electronic means where and when practicable.

It was at this point that the Senate Deputy Whip, Sabi Abdullahi, moved to amend the section.

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He proposed that the commission may consider electronic transmission provided the national network coverage is adjudged to be adequate and secure by the Nigerian Communications Commission and approved by the National Assembly.

Rancour

His proposal triggered murmuring in the chamber with many lawmakers loudly opposing and trying to shut him down.

But Senate President Ahmad Lawan, moved that they vote on the amendment and advised lawmakers against the proposed amendment to vote against it.

When put to vote, the nays were louder than the ayes but Mr Lawan ruled in favour of the amendment.

Akwa Ibom senator, Albert Bassey, thereafter, moved that the clause be re-amended to the initial section as contained in the bill.

Another vote was done and Mr Lawan again, ruled in favour of Mr Abdullahis amendment.

Loud arguments and chaos followed as unsatisfied senators were seen leaving their seats and shouting  making it difficult for either the chief whip or Mr Lawan to control the lawmakers.

The argument continued for over 15 minutes forcing Mr Lawan to call for an executive session.

This lasted for almost half an hour.

Division

By the time the lawmakers returned, Senate Minority Leader, Enyinnaya Abaribe, called for a division citing Order 73 of the Senate Standing Rule.

Order 73 allows for individual voting on an issue if a senator or senators disagree with the ruling of the Senate President.

The Senate Leader, Abdullahi Yahaya, at this point, pleaded with Mr Abaribe to withdraw his point of Order, to no avail.

Lawmakers were, thereafter, called upon one after the order and asked to vote verbally.

After the exercise, 52 senators, mostly of the All Progressives Congress (APC) voted that Sabi Abdullahis proposed amendment stand  that the NCC and the National Assembly determine where electronic transmission of results will be used and subject to the approval of the National Assembly.

After that, the lawmakers continued with the clause-by-clause consideration.

Major provisions

Besides empowering NCC and the National Assembly to determine the use of electronic transmission of results, the new bill also empowered INEC to review results declared by an electoral officer under duress.

Section 68 of the legislation reads the decision of the Returning Officer shall be final on any question arising from or relating to unmarked ballot paper, rejected ballot paper and declaration of scores of candidates and the return of a candidate

Provided that the Commission shall have the power within seven days to review the declaration and return where the Commission determines that the said declaration and return was not made voluntarily or was made contrary to the provisions of the Law, Regulations and Guidelines, and Manual for the election.

Section 64(2) reads, a decision of the Returning Officer or the Commission under subsection (1) may be reviewed by a Tribunal or Court in an election petition proceeding under this bill.

The limit of election spending was increased in the new bill.

The spending limit in Section 91 of the bill now allows presidential candidates to increase their cash haul from the current N1 billion to N5 billion while governorship candidates can rake in N1 billion from the hitherto N2 million.

For senatorial candidates, they can now legally raise N100 million from the previous N40 million, while candidates to the House of Representative can now accept N70 million from the current N30 million. And for State Assembly, candidates are now free to secure N30 million from the previous N10 million.

The bill was, thereafter, read for the third time and passed.

After the bill was passed, Mr Lawan, thanked colleagues for their devotion and dedication in the entire process.

He noted that if any difference is spotted in legislation passed by the House of Representatives, a conference committee will be constituted to harmonise the bill.

He also said he hoped that the new legislation will improve future elections in Nigeria.
Major media houses have complied with Nigerian governments illegal Twitter ban despite an order of the ECOWAS Court of Justice shielding them from sanctions, checks by PREMIUM TIMES have shown.

Twitter was banned by the Nigerian by the federal government on June 4, two days after a controversial tweet by President Muhammadu Buhari was taken down from the platform.

The government cited persistent use of the platform for activities that are capable of undermining Nigerias corporate existence, as reason for its action.

The ban took effect almost immediately with the government directing network providers to block access to Twitter.

On June 6, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), directed broadcasters to suspend patronage of the platform.

It described its further use by the broadcast stations as unpatriotic.

Media and human rights advocates condemned the NBCs directive calling it illegal and an attack on press freedom.

ECOWAS

The ECOWAS Court of Justice in Abuja also issued an order restraining the government from sanctioning, prosecuting or harassing Nigerians and media houses for using Twitter.

In its judgment delivered on June 22, the ECOWAS Court in Abuja, restrained the government and its agents from unlawfully imposing sanctions or doing anything whatsoever to harass, intimidate, arrest or prosecute Twitter and/or any other social media service provider(s), media houses, radio and television broadcast stations, the plaintiffs and other Nigerians who are Twitter users, pending the hearing and determination of this suit.

Broadcast stations stay off Twitter

Over three weeks after the ECOWAS Courts protective order prohibiting the government from taking action against them, checks by PREMIUM TIMES show that most broadcast stations have stopped tweeting in obedience to the ban.

The ARISE TV appears to still be tweeting in defiance to the ban, but its managing director, Ijeoma Nwaogwugwu, explained that the stations active presence on Twitter is due to the fact the tweets are posted outside Nigeria.

Our Nigerian offices have complied with the order, but our foreign offices arent bound by the ban, thats why ARISE TV remains active on Twitter, she told PREMIUM TIMES.

Our social media team continues to tweet from London, Washington and Johannesburg so to that extent, this hasnt affected our operations.

But I can imagine how its affecting our other colleagues and we hope the government will reconsider this suspension.

Others

Other popular stations that have since complied with the order include: Channels TV, African Independent Television (AIT), and Television Continental (TVC).

Their official twitter accounts show that the stations have complied with the governments order as they had stopped tweeting since June 4, the day authorities announced the suspension.

Popular radio stations like Cool FM and Wazobia FM, also stopped tweeting on June 5.

Some of the stations have, however, expressed their dismay with the decision.

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We believe the notice by NBC goes against these laws, Radio Now, a Lagos-based radio station said in a statement. We will, under duress, comply with the directive of the commission while consulting with our lawyers on the legality of this directive.

Newspapers still tweet except The Nation

On the other hand, major newspapers in the country have disregarded the ban and have continued tweeting using Virtual Private Network (VPN) applications to bypass restrictions to Twitter, except The Nation newspaper that last tweeted on June 5.

Nigerian newspapers had condemned the ban when first issued.

For instance, in its editorial piece, PREMIUM TIMES said the ban constitutes a gross abuse of office and grave violation of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as it elevates the personal interest of the President above that of the country and her citizens.

No regime has succeeded in silencing the voices of Nigerians because we have not allowed it. This regime too will fail in this scandalous attempt to deprive us of our rights, the newspaper added.

Meawhile, the Twitter ban has turned out to be a test run in the governments apparent move to censor the media and free speech.

There are two proposed legislations: the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and the Nigerian Press Council (NPC) Act amendment bills which seek to curtail the activities of the media.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how the front banners of major newspapers in Nigeria on Monday bore a picture of an individual with a sealed mouth, a depiction of the unrelenting efforts by the authorities of control the media and curb freedom of expression.

Information Blackout. Its not just against the media.its about societys right to know, your right to be heard, the front page advertorials read.
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There was pandemonium in Ilara-Mokin, Ifedore Local Government of Ondo State on Thursday as armed robbers attacked a commercial bank.

The details of the incident are still sketchy as of the time of filing this report.

Sources told PREMIUM TIMES that three people were killed including a journalist and a police officer.

The journalist, Olubunmi Afuye, was recently appointed as the spokesperson of Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin.

This newspaper gathered that he was shot dead while on his way to work and ran into the robbery operation.

The spokesperson of Ondo police command, Tee-Leo Ikoro, confirmed the incident but said he would release a statement of the details of the incident soon.

Details soon
Several times in the last ten years, I have compelled myself to discontinue public exploration, and application to Nigeria, of the concepts of power bloc and popular-democratic restructuring. These are concepts in which another concept  the national question or ethnic nationality question  plays an important, though neither dominant nor decisive role. I was, in fact, at a point, considering classifying these concepts and closely related ones as unpopular in a spirit that reminds me of Bertrand Russells Unpopular Essays. However, whereas Bertrand Russell, in labeling his 1950 collection of essays unpopular, was condescending, abusive and cynical, I am honest and respectful to a host of my comrades in the Nigerian Left and many of my other readers in considering describing their reception of my employment of these concepts as unpopular.

But suppose a young Leftist directly asks why I should repeatedly compel myself to discontinue the exploration of important concepts like power bloc and popular-democratic restructuring? Or, why I should even now, be dodging a frontal encounter with these concepts? And why, on the other hand, I am not inclined to abandon them altogether and permanently? The answer to the first two questions is that my exploration of these concepts had been widely and grossly misunderstood  in different directions  and was, in fact, threatening to poison my relationship with some close comrades, compatriots, collaborators and friends. I will then look at the young Leftist and ask, rhetorically, if that was not enough reason to discontinue the exercise.

The answer to the hypothetical Leftists last question is that I feel, very strongly, that a conscious permanent abandonment of my engagement with the twin-subjects of Nigerias power blocs and popular-democratic restructuring in Nigeria at this conjuncture in Nigerias history will be tantamount to abandoning the Marxist and Leninist dialectical method of investigation, analysis and organization in our struggle for popular democracy and socialism in Nigeria. This will turn me to a traitor not only to Marxism but also to the revolution of the Nigerian people and to the Nigerian Left whose product I am  in a profound sense.

My argument with myself at this juncture is, therefore, this: Since I am convinced  and have been so convinced since I became a Marxist  that only the Nigerian Left can consistently fight for and guarantee the genuine unity of this country, and since I am ever more convinced that my central propositions on Nigerias power blocs and popular-democratic restructuring are correct, and point to correct routes out of the current multiple tragedies in Nigeria and towards peoples revolution and socialism; but since it is untenable, undesirable and unacceptable that such a large fragment of my core comrades could be wrong on these same questions, it is my responsibility to try more strenuously to convince, or be convinced by, or to reach a dialectical understanding with more and more of my dissenting comrades on the controversial questions.

So, what do I do now? As the need for diligent elaboration and correct application of the concepts of power bloc and popular-democratic restructuring in the current multiple crises becomes stronger, clearer, and more urgent, how do I resume my exploration? I decided a couple of weeks ago to proceed along the historical track: going back to the beginnings of my actual engagement with socialism and the national question in Nigeria. I feel very strongly that moving along this track the reason or reasons for the unpopularity of my public enquiry on my twin subjects will be uncovered. And I am not afraid that in doing this the language or lexicon of my existing formulations may change or undergo revisions. Is that not a test of the Marxist method, that it must be applicable, with equal force, to Marxism itself?

In the next section of this piece, I shall attempt a sweeping historical review of my engagement with the national question, and problems of national unity and identify either consistency or where and why a shift or expansion in focus occurred, or both. But let me preface this entire effort with a brief statement of my central and dominant premise. That premise is this: Nigeria is a capitalist society. By this I mean, specifically, that Nigerias ruling class is a capitalist class, the economy is a capitalist economy, and the social formation is a capitalist social formation. But this does mean that every strand of Nigerias economy is capitalist, that every stratum of the class is capitalist and that every level of the social formation is capitalist. What it means is that capitalism exercises dominance and hegemony in the economy and social formation and directs the mode of reproduction of the society as a whole.

That is the first part of my premise. The second part, anchored on the first, is this: Nigerias capitalist ruling class is not homogeneous. It is divided by many things, just as it is united by several things. But the unifying component is dominant. This unifying component is capitalist accumulation and profit. From the heterogeneity of the capitalist ruling class emerges entities that exercise political dominance and control over the entire ruling class and, hence, over society as a whole. These entities I call power blocs. For about 30 years I have identified two power blocs in Nigerias ruling class and some fractions of the class struggling to reach accommodation with the big two. These struggling entities I designate as political forces. Power-blocs are political forces, but not all political forces are power-blocs. Big or small, all of them are forces in Nigerias capitalist ruling class.

We may now turn to the promised historical sweep. In late 1979, shortly after Nigerias return to civil constitutional rule, I wrote a sharp and angry article criticizing the bourgeois or ruling class politicians over their bitter and noisy quarrel over state creation. The article was originally published in the Nigerian Chronicle, the Cross River State government-owned daily newspaper. Later, the article, now under the caption, A comment on national unity in Nigeria, was included as Appendix to my 1982 book, Problems of Socialism: the Nigerian Challenge. Below are relevant excerpts from the 1979 article. Because of the historical and strategic importance of the article for my present case, I plead that the excerpts will be long:

One of the characteristics of our social life, and one which is at the same time the main source of the apparent strength and resilience of the present social order, is the fact that the formulation of our national problems is completely dominated by the bourgeoisie (those who rule over us), the government (those who govern us on behalf of the bourgeoisie) and their official and unofficial representatives, spokesmen, thugs, militants, theoreticians (or seers) and ideologists. The result is that, since the needs and interests of the bourgeoisie are, in most cases, quite distinct from popular needs and interests, and since bourgeois views are reflections of these perverted needs and interests, our national problems are frequently misrepresented, distorted, emptied of all content and meaning, and finally integrated into bourgeois discourse.

The 1979 article continued: Thus when the bourgeoisie say the public or the nation, they mean themselves: they are the public and the nation. When they say the security of the nation, they mean the security of their wealth and the social structure by which this wealth is accumulated. When they talk of subversion, they mean a threat to the conditions of their own dominance and perfidy. When they talk of national unity, they mean the unity of the bourgeois class, or a greater fraction of it, over the people, and when they talk of peace they mean the peace of the graveyard, where the poor and the neglected can suffer and die in silence.

The article continued: The struggle for, and against, the creation of yet more states is essentially a struggle between the different factions of the bourgeoisie. Those who are more favoured in the present scheme of things and whose sphere of influence and exploitation will only diminish with the creation of more states will naturally oppose state creation. On the other hand, those who see the creation of still more states as the only solution to their marginalization will naturally fight for state creation. In this struggle, the common people  the masses  are mere recipients of loaded prejudices, they are mere instruments of bourgeois struggles, mere victims of bourgeois manipulation. In the struggle for, and against, state creation, the agitators are not seeking promotion of the interests of the masses, but their own interests. The various factions claim to be speaking in the name of their people while, in reality, they are merely looking for, or defending, exclusive domains of exploitation and theft.

And it continued: There is no objective conflict between an Efik worker and an Ibibio worker, between an Ogoja market woman and an Annang market woman, between an Oron peasant and an Ibibio peasant, or indeed between night-soilmen of different ethnic groups! But their self-appointed leaders say there are differences, and go further to mobilise them in defence of these false differences, whereas the only fundamental social difference is that existing between the masses (from all ethnic groups) and their exploiters.

The relevant excerpts of the 1979 article ended: We are not saying that there are no minority ethnic groups in Nigeria; neither are we saying that there is no ethnic-based oppression. What we are saying is that the bourgeoisie cannot lead the struggle for genuine ethnic equality precisely because their interests conflict with popular interests. End of excerpts.

Thus, the central position taken in my 1979 article on national unity and the national question in Nigeria was that the ruling class was not capable of resolving the issues on account of its class interest and class practices, including its bitter intra-class struggle for primitive (primary) capitalist accumulation. This position remained essentially unchanged until I went into the Political Bureau in January 1986. Here we may recall that the 17-member body, in which I was mysteriously included was asked by General Babangida to organize and conduct public political debates across the nation and, on the basis of the outcome of this national debate, prescribe a new social order for the country.

It will also be recalled that the Bureau came out 15 months later with a prescription of Socialism. My own Minority Report was also that Nigerians chose Socialism as a new Social Order. The difference between my Minority Report and the Main/Majority Report was that mine was more categorical and included the introduction of Collective Presidency and reports on debates and crises within the Bureau itself, including how we arrived at the Verdict of Socialism. It was also very clear to all of us  Right, Left and Centre  that only the cases for the creation of Akwa Ibom State and Katsina State were irrefutable. And the two states were created by General Babangida in September 1987, raising the number of states from 19 to 21. However, at a personal political level, the impact of the Bureau on me was that it made me go from mere ideological criticism of the ruling class and its governments to now include concrete demands and prescriptions on several issues in politics and governance. These concrete demands and prescriptions included those on the resolution of the national question and the question of national unity.

Let us now make a 31-year leap from my Minority Report on the National Political Debate of 1986/1987 to April 12, 2018 when my article Restructuring: propositions summarised appeared in The Guardian and several other media. I shall reproduce a large part of the article because it embodies what is in the 31-year period. I request readers to follow the following excerpts from the April 2018 article:

The aim here is to summarise my current position on the question of geopolitical restructuring of Nigeria. I say current because as far as I can remember, I started thinking seriously  and then debating and writing  about restructuring from 1986 as a member of the Political Bureau. Today, 32 years later, I am still thinking and writing on the subject. The present piece is implicitly a draft memo on this important political subject to the Nigerian Left.

What I consider my current aggregate position on restructuring of Nigeria is constituted by several propositions articulated and refined over a fairly long period of time. For the purpose of this piece, the propositions can be grouped under the following five broad headings: the impossibility of purely ethnic separation; redeployment and redistribution of national resources; levels of exercise of power and responsibility; principles of triple balancing; and popular-democratic restructuring at a glance. The propositions are not of the same status. Some of them are issues which the Nigerian Left should struggle to have inserted in the Constitution of Nigeria and others are those that the Left should insert in its programmes, manifestoes and occasional platforms. I shall now take the groups of propositions one after the other.

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First cluster of propositions: A little over 20 years ago, on December 3, 1997, when General Sani Abacha was still in power, I attended and contributed to a seminar organised in Calabar by the Cross River State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ). The seminar was one of NUJs contributions to Abachas transition programme after the collapse of Babangidas experiment. I was asked to speak on the topic, The ethnicity syndrome: How it affects the development of Cross River State. But I enlarged the topic to The national question, the power blocs and popular-democratic transformation of Nigeria, explaining to the organisers that this would put the subject in a historical and national perspective.

In the preamble to my contribution I said: If a 100kg bag of beans and a 100kg bag of rice are mixed, it will be possible, with patience and perseverance, for a schoolboy or schoolgirl to separate the grains. I then went on to say that it would be easier for that unfortunate young person to perform the feat than for any political authority or forces to separate Nigeria into pure ethnic components! Two years later, on November 4, 1999, my piece, Impossibility of (pure) ethnic separation appeared in my column in The Guardian. The article was essentially a review of the late Chief Anthony Enahoros proposition on restructuring the federation. But simultaneously the article appeared as a re-statement of my December 3, 1997, proposition.

I am not saying that Nigeria cannot disintegrate. Of course, the country can disintegrate if it pushes itself or is allowed to be pushed beyond certain limits by those who have the means and the power. Nigeria can disintegrate in a manner worse than that of the former Soviet Union, the former Yugoslavia, the former Czechoslovakia, the Greater Ethiopia (before Eritrea broke off), the Greater Somalia (before the current catastrophe), and Yemen, a bleeding country which has seen separation and unification several times. All I am saying is that if Nigeria disintegrates  as it can disintegrate if the Nigerian Left does not step in  it will not be along ethnic lines. If Nigeria disintegrates the more powerful war juntas will simply carve up the country  with each component reproducing Nigeria, that is, recreating majorities and minorities, the dominating and the dominated.

The second cluster of propositions relates to class-to-class redeployment and redistribution of national resources or, simply, the restructuring of class appropriations. By this I mean the massive movement of resources from Nigerias ruling class and its blocs and forces to the popular masses through people-oriented radical reforms in employment, wages, education, health, housing, transportation, taxation and levies, etc. Class appropriations, by the way, include not only the monies, properties and businesses recovered from looters but also proceeds of state and class robberies which may have been covered by obnoxious legalities. The class-to-class redeployment is the sociological and logical complement of horizontal, state-to-state distribution which  as it is now  is essentially a distribution within the ruling class and its blocs and various segments.

The third cluster of propositions is the principle of triple balancing in Nigerias geopolitical restructuring. The picture is like this: split each of the Southsouth and Northcentral geopolitical zones into two. This raises the number of geopolitical zones from six to eight. Now, go to Nigerias pre-independence geopolitical structure: the three regions  West (plus Lagos), East and North  where the first two regions (plus Lagos) were also regarded as the South. With the new eight  zone structure, the former North and the former South will have four each; the former East and former West (plus Lagos) will have two zones each; the Southsouth and Northcentral will, together, have four zones while the big groups  the Southwest, the Southeast, the Northeast and the Northwest  will together have four zones. So, the North balances the South; the East balances the West; and the historical Minorities balances the historical Majorities.

The fourth cluster of propositions relates to the levels of responsibility and exercise of power or, in more familiar language, tiers of government. Here we move from the current three tiers to five tiers of government as follows: federal, zonal (between federal and state), state, local government and community (below the local government). Each zone will be constituted by a number of states while a local government ward will be constituted into one or more communities. At the federal level, the president will be replaced by a presidential council of 8 equal members  a member representing a zone  with rotational headship within a presidential council term of four years. The zone may or may not be a government as such, but minimally it will be a unit for some strategic appointments and location of some strategic industries, state institutions and infrastructures. The communities will be the domain of direct mass involvement in development, social welfare and security.

So, what will this type of restructuring  which we have called popular-democratic restructuring  look like when it has been constructed and set in motion? This question summons the fifth cluster of propositions. The answer here is that the picture is fragmentary and tentative. Only discussions can refine it. But the clear features include: Nigeria will remain a federal republic; the current principles of citizenship, fundamental human, political, occupational and civil rights, as well as principles of state policy will be enhanced; the federal government will give up a substantial fraction of its current responsibility and appropriation to the states and local governments. The states, in turn, will finance the zones and the local governments will finance the communities. Finally, and this is the magic of popular democracy  the cost of governance, both in relative and absolute terms, will be much less than what it is at present. End of excerpts.

A short description for the structure I am proposing could be: A republican, secular and popular-democratic federal system under a collective presidency with rotational headship. It is necessary to emphasize that although I have drawn from several sources to sketch this structure, in the final analysis, the construction has been informed by the Nigerian political history, the set of premises earlier articulated, current realities and debates, the need to preserve the unity of the country  which is the conscious ideological and political choice of the Nigerian Left: in particular, the need to resolve the quarrel over the location and movement of the presidency and prevent Nigerias ruling class from plunging the nation into another civil war; and, above all, the need and prospects of advancing the interests of the popular masses in three directions: political empowerment at the grassroots, substantive and substantial amelioration of their material condition and expansion of the national democratic space. Unstated here is how the Nigerian Left can use this structure to advance the struggle of the working, toiling and poor masses of Nigeria.

For the avoidance of doubt, national unity, the conscious ideological and political choice of the Nigerian Left is not an idle or class-collaborationist or Bonapartist choice. Nor is it a compromise with, or surrender to neofascism. It is an independent and responsible choice premised uncompromisingly on socialist vision of the future, permanent revolutionary struggle for popular democracy and socialism in Nigeria, and revolutionary internationalism.

Fighters against ethnic oppression in Nigeria should make or be assisted by the Nigerian Left to make a distinction, as Rosa Luxemburg did at the beginning of the 20th century, between the right to be free from ethnic oppression and the right to national or ethnic self-determination (which historically  and for Marxists  has included the right to secession). In the Nigerian context the former is a popular-democratic aspiration; it is legitimate; it is correct, and it can and will be realized. The latter is unrealizable, even through war. Ethnic nationality fighters should expand their attention to a particular root cause of our current national calamity. This is, on the one hand, the exploitative socio-economic foundation of the Nigerian nation  that is Capitalism, the guarantor of all causes  and, on the other hand, the severely limited definition of democracy, freedom and citizenship adopted, in practice, by Nigerias rulers.

Nigerian Marxists and Leftists should also come to terms with the fact that there is no real contradiction between their categorically upholding the right to self-determination (up to and including the right to secession) and their campaigning against exercising that right in a given historical context. Our ideology and our history have abundantly taught us that. What looks like a contradiction will be swept away by the victory of socialism globally.

In conclusion, I would like to identify three statements recounted in this essay as statements of three main, definitive, and successive moments in the development of my thoughts on the question of National Unity in Nigeria. These are my 1979 article in the Nigerian Chronicle, Calabar, reproduced in my 1982 book, Problems of Socialism: the Nigerian Challenge and titled, A comment on National Unity; my contribution to the December 3, 1997 Seminar on Ethnicity and National Unity organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, Calabar, and titled, The National Question, Power Blocs and Popular-Democratic Transformation of Nigeria and my essay: Restructuring: Propositions summarized, which appeared in The Guardian of Thursday, April 12, 2018.

I re-affirm the main propositions in the three statements, and propose that they are consistent and reflect, on the one hand, the historical development of the country, and, on the other hand, the historical development of the Nigerian Left and of myself. I affirm that the only rupture in the development was the leap from criticism to criticism plus manifesto by a movement and one of its products that have grown to see political power as not only a realistic and realizable political objective but also an immediate one. I am however prepared, and indeed inclined to consign to our archives the term Restructuring which I started using in my column and in the press long before many of the current professional politicians became politically conscious. In the place of popular-democratic restructuring, I may revive my 1997 formulation: popular-democratic transformation.

However, the concept, power bloc, the way I have described it in this essay, with inspiration from aspects of Nicos Poulanzas Political Power and Social Classes, is a Marxist category and cannot be so easily consigned to the archives. As a last word, I would request young Nigerian Marxists and Leftists to do a search of our national newspapers of late 1980s to early 1990s and my Guardian column of that period and determine the emergence and employment of the following terms: Sovereign National Conference (SNC), Geopolitical Restructuring, Power Blocs, Neofascism and Bonapartism. They all developed during the fight against the Babangida dictatorship.

Edwin Madunagu, mathematician and journalist, writes from Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria.
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Nigerian businesswoman, philanthropist and founder of Flourish Africa, Folorunso Alakija, has announced the launch of a N1 billion fund to promote female owned businesses in Africa.

Flourish Africa is a female empowerment platform designed to help women achieve their full potential. It is a place for both female millenials and adults to access information and the right networks that will enable them grow in their chosen careers and businesses while prioritizing health and wellness.

According to the statement announcing the fund, Mrs Alakija disclosed that the initiative would focus on supporting the entrepreneurial activities of at least 2500 female-owned businesses through funding and structured training over a period of 5 years.

In her announcement, she said Im happy to launch the Flourish Africa 1 billion Naira fund on my 70th birthday as a gift to hardworking and enterprising women. This initiative will focus on empowering women economically and socially for the benefit of their immediate families and the society.

She further explained that a minimum of 500 female micro-entrepreneurs would be trained annually. After the training, 100 audacious entrepreneurs from the pool will be able to access grants to the tune of N2 million each for their businesses from an annual fund of 200 million Naira.

While expressing her enthusiasm about the initiative, she explained that she looks forward to empowering one woman at a time as she strongly believes that women are a crucial part of Africas development. She restated her commitment to empowering as many women as possible in Africa as one of the things she would want to be remembered for. She added that the main objective of Flourish Africa is to create an enabling platform that provides skill development, mentoring, access to marketplace for female entrepreneurs.

This concept of empowerment stems from Mrs Alakijas assertion that women have the potential to flourish, if a community of like-minded individuals who share a common goal and purpose pool together and make an impact in every community they find themselves in.

# Flourish Africa concept stems from Apostle Alakijas assertion that many women have the potential to be great. If we form a community of like-minded individuals who share a common goal and purpose, we can pool together and make an impact in every community we find ourselves in and ultimately flourish.
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The House of Representatives on Thursday rejected a motion to declare Bauchi State an oil-producing state.

A member from Bauchi State, Yakubu Abdullahi, moved the motion for the federal government to declare the state an oil producer and extend the 13 per cent derivation to it.

Mr Abdullahi argued that oil exploration in Bauchi State commenced in 2018 and up till today it is still ongoing but no official report on whether the exercise is a success or not.

He added, In 2019, President Muhammadu Buhari flags off the Spud-In of Kolmani River II well Drilling in Bauchi State and directed the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to extend its exploration to six basins in the Country.

Any community from whose location oil is discovered and or produced is entitled to several extra revenues which is special attention for the sake of its environment, infrastructure and health impact.

Mr Abdulllahi prayed that the House should mandate the Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream) to invite the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation to give comprehensive representation on the level of work in the oil exploration currently undertaken in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State and the successes recorded.

The motion was not debated, but when it was put to vote by Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila, the nays had it.

Mr Gbajabiamila, who appeared not to be sure, put the motion to question again and there was a loud nay.

The motion was put to vote for the a third time and again, the chorus of nays was very loud.
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The Provost of Zamfara State College of Agriculture and Animal Sciences, Bakura Burkullu, and two other persons have regained their freedom four days after they were kidnapped.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the three were kidnapped at Government Science Secondary School, Bakura and a nearby community.

A member of the family of the provost, Ibrahim Bello, told this reporter that they were released Wednesday night and taken to General Hospital, Bakura for medical check-up.

Another source, Hamza Bakura, said N3 million was paid as a ransom before they were released.

The boys father is my friend and he paid one million Naira. The provosts family and friends paid N1.5 million while the family of the other teacher, Malam Kabiru, paid N5,000,000. This I can authoritatively confirm, he said.

Meanwhile in another development, gunmen on Wednesday attacked Dauran town in Zurmi local government area of Zamfara, killing two people.

Several animals were also rustled by the bandits during the night attack.

A resident of the town, Surajo Dan Dauran, said the bandits came on several motorcycles around 11:45 p.m. I was outside my house because there was no light and I saw the motorcycles going into the inner parts of the town before they started shooting sporadically.

He said two people were shot and taken to the hospital where they died, noting that several domestic animals were also rustled.

A member of Zamfara Circle Initiative, a pressure group in the state, Abdullahi Zurmi, told PREMIUM TIMES that during the attack, soldiers stationed in Zurmi town refused to come when we called them. But I understand the situation because they are not many and the bandits are many with sophisticated weapons.

The state police command has not released a statement on the attacks.
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The Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) has warned telecommunication companies against illegal connection of communication cables on its electric poles.

The acting Manager of Corporate Communications, Chioma Aninwe, gave the warning in a statement in Port Harcourt on Thursday.

The company said it would commence mass disconnection of any telecommunication devices and cables mounted on its electric poles on July 16.

PHED is concerned over the illegal usage of its electric poles as makeshift towers by some telecommunication companies in carrying out their operations.

The practice which is against industry regulation poses a risk to the lives of customers in the event of a circuit bridge, she said.

Mrs Aninwe said the illegal connections were done in its franchise states of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River and Rivers.

She said that any bridge on circuit could lead to total damage of critical power assets that require huge capital investment to replace.

Perpetrators are to note that our power poles are strictly for the purpose of transmitting power supply to our valued customers, she added.

The spokesperson urged interested companies that desire to mount their communication cables on electric poles to write to the managing director for approval.

(NAN)
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The police in Edo State said they have arrested a security guard over an alleged plan to kidnap the Manager of Zenith Bank branch in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of the state.

The police spokesman in the state, Bello Kontongs, who confirmed the arrest, said the security man was arrested along with another suspect.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the security guard reportedly accused the bank manager, Raphael Ibodeme, of organising several bank robberies in the area.

However, it was gathered that Mr Ibodeme had taken some administrative actions against the suspect over alleged acts of insubordination, which might have prompted him to plot the bank managers kidnap.

In the planned abduction of the bank manager, the security guard was said to have contacted somebody who reportedly recruited the second suspect.

However, the recruiter of the second suspect, who had just been released from prison after serving out his term for kidnapping, reportedly buckled and reported the plot to the police.

The arrest of the security guard and the second suspect was made possible, as the latters recruiter was asked by the police to play along in the planned abduction of the bank manager.

When quizzed by the police on his role in the plot, the security guard accused the bank manager of robbery, after which he said during interrogation that he had had a running battle with Mr Ibodeme.

The police spokesperson, however, said the report of the anti-kidnapping squad of the command showed that the security guard lied against the bank manager to avoid being prosecuted.

The report from the anti-kidnapping squad in our command says the security guard lied against Ibodeme, Kontongs stated.

He assured that the two suspects would be charged to court for attempted kidnapping.

(NAN)
The Womens Wing of the Nigeria Labour Congress in Enugu State said it is poised to tackle the rising cases of domestic violence against women in the state.

The Chairperson of the group, Rosemary Ugwu, said this in Enugu on Thursday after her re-election for another four-year term.

Mrs Ugwu said the group would hold seminars in the 17 local government areas of the state to sensitise the public on the dangers associated with domestic violence.

She also promised to organise capacity building workshops for their members and women in general.

According to her, the workshop will help to empower the women economically and financially and train them to become self-dependent in managing their funds.

By the special grace of God, we will have capacity-building first, then women empowerment.

We shall organise seminars on the issue of domestic violence and violence against women and girl child throughout the LGAs.

This is what we will do in order to put an end to the phenomenon in the state.

As the saying goes, a tree cannot make a forest, so I appeal to my opponents in the election to join hands with me to ensure that we achieve the objectives of the womens wing of NLC, she said.

Also, the new Secretary of the wing, Clara Omegaoha, said with her election, she felt she was being sent on an errand, which must be accomplished.

Mrs Omegaoha, who polled 43 of the 72 votes cast, promised to deploy her experience as an active member of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives to effectively discharge her duties.

We will now go back and make a study of what has been happening and what is happening in the NLC womens wing of the state.

And then, from whatever we have gathered, we will find out what is happening in other states.

There are some states that the NLC womens wing has done tremendously well. We will reach out to them so we can make a change in our state, Mrs Omegaoha said.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Election Planning Committee, Fabian Nwaigbo, said the election was one of the most transparent conducted by the committee in recent time.

This is the reason those who lost have to accept the result of the election, Mr Nwaigbo, who is the state NLC Secretary, said.

He said that 72 delegates were accredited for the election and that five of the six positions were unopposed.

(NAN)

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The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) said it is striving to export cashew nuts directly from the South-east, in line with the federal governments policy on diversification.

The Executive Director of the council, Olusegun Awolowo, said this on Thursday in Enugu during a workshop organised by the council for stakeholders in the cashew value chain.

Mr Awolowo was represented by the South-east Regional Coordinator of the council, Arnold Jackson.

He said NEPC had developed what it called Zero-Oil Plan, an initiative for boosting foreign exchange earnings through the non-oil export sector.

He said the initiative had set a long term goal of earning 20 per cent of Nigerias Gross Domestic Product from non-oil exports.

The initial target is to exceed US$30 billion in non-oil exports over the next 10 years, add extra US$150 billion to Nigerias foreign reserves and lift at least 20 million Nigerians out of poverty, he said.

Mr Awolowo said the council also had the One-State One-Product programme, which was developed to ensure that each state focused on at least one product to develop for export.

He said that under the programme, Enugu State indicated cashew and palm oil as its main and alternate products.

The NEPC boss said cashew remained an important agricultural commodity in the state.

We, therefore, require the collaboration of the state government and other stakeholders to develop exportable products from cashew, he said.

He said cashew has the potential to significantly affect Nigerias foreign exchange.

According to him, the country is the second largest producer of the nut with an annual production of 350,000 metric tons.

We have a long way to go to be able to meet local demands and export, Mr Awolowo said.

He called for the establishment of an aggregation centre in the zone, where cashew nuts could be graded and checked for quality assurance.

The quality issues have to be resolved because what sells products is the quality assurance, he said.

In a lecture, the National Auditor, Cashew Farmers Association of Nigeria, Ferdinand Eze, said that Enugu was producing 20,000 metric tons of cashew nuts per annum.

Mr Eze said the figure was a far cry from the capacity of the state, considering the huge cashew investment made in the area by former Premier of Old Eastern Region, late Michael Okpara.

He said most of the cashew trees were over 40 years and had become old, hence the need to plant new ones.

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Meanwhile, in a goodwill message, the Enugu State Commissioner for Agriculture, Mathew Idu, said the state has comparative and competitive advantage in cashew production over other cash crops.

Mr Idu, however, said that cashew farmers in the state were yet to reach their optimum potential in cashew production.

He gave assurance that the state government would assist the farmers and others along the value chain.

(NAN)
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team (DSVRT) on Wednesday said that 194 men were reportedly assaulted by their partners in the past six months.

DSVRT provided the figure in its bi-annual report.

The report made available to journalists in Lagos is from January 2021 to June 2021.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the figure is 44.33 per cent higher than the 108 assault cases reported by men from January 2020 to June 2020.

According to the latest report, the DSVRT, from January 2021 to June 2021, attended to 1,329 cases involving adults.

The data showed that 1,125 of the adults, representing 85 per cent, were female while 194 (15 per cent) were male.

The data revealed that 77 per cent of the adults were married, 11 per cent, single, seven per cent, widowed and divorced while five per cent were cohabiting.

In an interview with NAN, the Coordinator of the DSVRT, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, said that there had been a steady increase in reported cases of gender-based violence on the part of both men and women in the state since 2014.

She, however, said that men had difficulty reporting incidents of assault by their partners largely due to cultural norms.

Mrs Vivour-Adeniyi said: Patriarchy is an enemy of everybody because it keeps people in silence.

From a young age, males are not allowed to express themselves when they are experiencing trauma, and that lingers on to adulthood.

When a man is experiencing violence, even his fellow men mock him, and such a person will not be able to speak up.

With the data we are seeing, we are confident that when men are aware, they can report these incidents.

They will be treated with empathy and professionalism and they can be encouraged to speak up and report.

The DSVRT report revealed that, of the 1,329 adults, 1,236 were aged between 18 years and 45 years while 93 were 45 years and above.

A further breakdown of the figures showed that 954 adults reported domestic violence, 53 reported rape, and 29 reported attempts to commit rape and sexual assault.

The data also showed that 24 people reported sexual assault by penetration and threat, while 269 were for others.

The DSVRT coordinator told NAN that all the sexual violence cases had been charged to court.

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The directorate of public prosecutions has requested for the case files.

All the cases of sexual assault by penetration are being prosecuted at the high court.

All the cases that are sexual assaults that do not include penetration are currently being prosecuted at the magistrates court.

For sexual violence, that is clear cut, because all the cases are being prosecuted.

Domestic violence, however, is not so clear cut because not all survivors want prosecution, they want the abuse to stop, Mrs Vivour-Adeniyi said.

The report also revealed that the top five local government areas in which the assaults were reported are Alimosho (200 cases), Ikeja (124 cases), Kosofe (123 cases), Ikorodu (115 cases), and Oshodi-Isolo (95 cases). (NAN)
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The Ogun State government has denied media reports that the state recorded 15 cases of the new Delta variant of coronavirus in July.

Tomi Coker, the commissioner for health, said in a statement Thursday that although some states have reported the new variant, Ogun is yet to record a case.

Ogun State has not recorded any case of the Delta Variant of Covid-19, said Mrs Coker.

The press release I issued was aimed at calling for strict adherence to the stipulated guidelines considering the increase in the cases we are experiencing nationwide at the moment.

Media reports had quoted the health commissioner as lamenting the rise in the case of the Delta variant in the state, after recording just two cases in June.

Nigeria, last week, recorded its first case of the Delta variant, described as the most transmissible variant by the World Health Organisation.

According to the WHO, the new variant, which is driving the latest spike in cases and deaths from Covid-19, is now present in 104 countries.

The Ogun governments denial comes days after the neighbouring Oyo State announced it had recorded a case of the deadly variant of the disease.

Mrs Coker, in her statement, advised that all COVID-19 preventive protocols should be taken more seriously as a means to prevent the new dimension of Covid-19.

She said Ogun State has concluded the first phase of the vaccination campaign across the state.

However, the second phase is about to commence and we urge all those yet to be vaccinated to present themselves at the nearest vaccination centre for their first and second dose. It is well established that the vaccines are safe and effective in protecting us and loved ones.

The commissioner, however, said the state Ministry of Health is monitoring the trend and will not fail to give regular updates from time to time.
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Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State on Thursday signed the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) 2021 Bill into law.

The governor, while assenting to the bill in Akure, said that it was not selective, but for everyone in the state.

He explained that although VAPP was for everyone, the state was particular about violence against the girl-child, adding that so many things were inherent in the new law.

Earlier, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Bamidele Oleyelogun, lauded Mr Akeredolus efforts at ensuring massive infrastructural development in the state.

Mr Oleyelogun explained that the bill was given express passage due to its importance, even though due process was observed.

We even set up a special committee to peruse the bill, while the public hearing on it was attended by various stakeholders, he said.

Also speaking, wife of the governor, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, asked for more appointments and opportunities for women in the state.

She explained that the law would protect the girl child and women against all forms of violence.

Similarly, Catherine Ogunjebi, representative of International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), commended the assembly for the speedy passage of the bill.

She called on the public to report any violation of the bill, with a promise to ensure that such cases would be pursued to logical conclusion.

The implementation of VAPP is much more than its passage. It is not biased; it is for all of us and it is gender- balanced, she said.

(NAN)
Plattsburgh, NY (12901)

Today

Showers this morning then scattered thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 81F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms during the evening. Partly cloudy skies after midnight. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
Southbury, CT (06488)

Today

Cloudy with a few showers. High 79F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Mainly clear skies. Low 64F. Winds light and variable.
"I know quality GAS by the look, the feel, the smoke," 2 Chainz said in regards to the GAS Cannabis. Tweet this

"I know quality GAS by the look, the feel, the smoke," 2 Chainz said in regards to the GAS Cannabis. "and now because of our partnership with CampNova, you will too."

"CampNova combines all the online shopping experience and technology of Amazon for shopping, UberEATS for fast delivery and FashionNova for influencer lifestyle, all in one centralized location," said Emery Morrison, co-founder and chief marketing officer of CampNova .

"CampNova is the future in technology, in staff, in management and in execution," said Joshua Shelton, cofounder of Green Street. "GAS Cannabis and Green Street are honored to be working with a team that will fuel the future of how people purchase and receive our products."

Since its 2018 inception, Gas Cannabis by 2 Chainz features a line of strains that come in at three price points tagged to gas octanes  87, 89 and 93. 2Chainz also continues to stand by the notion that his products, "Won't break the bank," either.

"Adding Gas Cannabis to our menu is a reflection on our access to high-level individuals," Morrison added . "and the ability to create solid partnerships that cut out the middleman and focus on customer experience. We are able to do that through our partnership with 2 Chainz and other people in the industry, as well."

In the last year, amid the pandemic, 2 Chainz headlined the virtual, Small Business Live, a benefit Livestream to help small businesses in the wake of COVID-19, with a focus on those owned by women and people of color. The 100 Joints rapper, also teamed up with YouTube to launch the "Money Maker Fund," as part of the streaming platform's #YouTubeBlackVoices Fund initiative. The five-episode series supported HBCUs, Historically Black Colleges and Universities' entrepreneurial students, where he awarded $55,000 to the best idea.

"Working with 2 Chainz' GAS brand is very exciting," said Marvin Wilcher, co-founder and CEO of CampNova . "And we believe that it has enormous potential."

CampNova's role with Gas Cannabis will primarily become the exclusive delivery and sourcing partner for Gas Cannabis and led by co-founders, Morrison and Wilcher . CampNova will also exclusively operate the partnership through sourcing and delivery partnerships, they will announce next week, in California, where weed is legal for both recreational and medicinal use in the majority of counties.

About CampNova: CampNova is an e-commerce, technology marketing platform developed by experienced cannabis entrepreneurs . A premier cannabis and CBD destination, CampNova is a direct-to-consumers platform featuring delivery partners throughout the state of California. CampNova features brands, bonus limited edition exclusive releases from celebrities featuring pro-athletes, actors, and influencers. Its headquarters are in Los Angeles and Oakland, Calif.

About 2Chainz: 2 Chainz is a Grammy Award-winning American hip-hop artist, record producer, songwriter, actor, entrepreneur, businessman, investor, philanthropist, and activist with 12 hit singles with a total of 23 Platinum records. The certified platinum artist 2 Chainz adds Gas Cannabis Co. to his expanding empire, which includes companies like the apparel brand CEO Millionaires, his Atlanta restaurant Escobar Restaurant and Tapas, and his hit Viceland TV series "Most Expensivest."

Related Links: https://bit.ly/3y7lnUH

Contact: B. Ramirez - [email protected] - 925-490-3115

SOURCE CampNova

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BEIJING, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- As an important part of 2021 Global Digital Economy Conference, the 2021 Global Digital Economy Innovation Competition will be held on August 2, 2021 in Beijing.

The "2021 Global Digital Economy Conference" is co-sponsored by the People's Government of Beijing Municipal, the National Development and Reform Commission, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the Ministry of Commerce, and the Cyberspace Administration of China. The "2021 Global Digital Economy Innovation Competition" is jointly organized by the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Economics and Information Technology, the People's Government of Daxing District, and Asia Data Group.

Over recent years, the digital economy market and related industries have continued to develop and are increasingly becoming the main form of economic development in China.

In 2020, the scale of digital economy in China reached 39.2 trillion yuan, accounting for 38.6% of GDP. The growth rate of the digital economy was more than three times of the GDP growth rate, which means digital economy had become a key driving force for stable economic growth.

2021 is the first year of the "14th Five-Year Plan". Standing at a new historical starting point, the digital economy will further promote economic transformation and upgrading and the transformation of growth patterns, enhance the resilience of China's economic development, and provide strong momentum for economic and social development.

In order to accelerate the digital transformation, vigorously promote the digital economy, further enhance the competitiveness of the core industries of the digital economy, and stimulate the leading and enabling role of economic and social development, the competition focuses on new trends and hotspots in the development of the digital economy, and is committed to building an international professional event platform in the field of digital economy.

Set a benchmark effect with support of the platform.

The theme of the 2021 Global Digital Economy Innovation Competition is "Technology New Empowerment  Digital New Benchmark". Based on the development trend of the digital economy industry, focusing on digital life and health, digital culture, digital trade, advanced intelligent manufacturing and other fields, the Competition has started project recruitment in the form of online and offline.

As one of the characteristic activities of the 2021 Global Digital Economy Conference, the competition is committed to solving the problem of inter-communications among digital economy enterprises by building a platform for communication and resource sharing between government, enterprises, enterprises and investors. The platform will also help introducing the strong support and high-quality policies of innovative projects and high-end talents in the place where the competition is held.

It is worth mentioning that Daxing District, Beijing, where the 2021 Global Digital Economy Innovation Competition is located, has unique policy advantages as a "policy highland for reform and opening up"-this is the only region in the country that has two provinces and cities free trade zone policies at the same time. Daxing also enjoys many major policies such as building the comprehensive demonstration zone, comprehensive bonded zone, and Zhongguancun National Independent Innovation Demonstration Zone.

Daxing District is sitting on new opportunities of "two districts" construction, "dual free trade" policy and international innovation cooperation construction. Multiple benefits will maximize the platform effect of the competition, and ultimately help the transformation of outstanding innovation results and cutting-edge technology. More outstanding innovative projects, professional scientific and technological talents will be reserved to build a benchmark city for the global digital economy.

Create influence with authoritative endorsement.

The competition will invite partners and executives of leading investment institutions to serve as roadshow judges. At the roadshow site, investors representing the focus of the capital market, will provide comprehensive guidance and review on the development direction, development skills, and marketing of the participating companies' projects standing at the forefront of research perspectives as well as deep industry insights.

There will also be a number of industry experts, partners of various fields, executives of innovative companies, media representatives and other guests to participate in order to ensure the high level of evaluation and fairness of the competition, and jointly witness the future star of the digital economy industry.

All-round empowerment with abundant resources.

The competition is recruiting projects in four fields of life and health, digital culture, digital trade, and advanced manufacturing. Excellent projects are given priority so the scope can be expanded to Internet or technology-related companies. In order to gather and attract outstanding teams, the organizing committee has specially set up generous bonus prizes and abundant supporting activities for participating companies.

In this competition, there will be 1 champion, 2 runners-up, and 3 third-winners. These three kinds of winners will receive RMB 500,000, 300,000, and 200,000 respectively. At the same time, the competition will also set up a number of outstanding innovation awards, who will be given exclusive trophies and certificates.

What's more, all participating projects will be listed as key projects in the field of digital economy in Daxing District. While enjoying the digital economy development policies of China and Beijing, in accordance with the 1+N industrial policy of Daxing District, priority will be given to the award-winning teams' talent settlement, rent reduction, scientific research and innovation, fund investment, and special industrial policy support for the landing projects.

In order to maximize the impact, the competition will also launch an overall and all-round publicity activity combined with the global digital economy conference cooperative media platform, the digital new country gate (Daxing) branch venue media platform, and the competition-related media resources and platforms.

For participating companies, these are real "empowerment". With multiple strong supports, the competition brings together new directions and new developments in the industry, which will effectively stimulate the innovative vitality and development potential of participating companies, and ultimately actively promote the sustainable construction and development of the digital economy industry.

Project registration deadline: July 15, 2021 18:00. Please submit the project registration form through https://www.wjx.top/vm/tU3Fikf.aspx. Please send the project BP to: [email protected]

Please click the link to fill in the registration form.

https://www.wjx.top/vm/tU3Fikf.aspx

SOURCE Asia Data Group
WATERTOWN, Mass., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Olympia Moving & Storage has been awarded the "Best of Boston 2021  Best Movers Award" by Boston Magazine. This award reflects the quality of services the company offers and the overall satisfaction that customers receive. This is the first such award in Olympia's 28-year history.

"Olympia Moving & Storage's crew and office staff work tirelessly to provide the highest quality service. Throughout the pandemic, their teams continued to operate in the face of known risks and successfully navigated through the challenges that were presented, "said Piet Gauchat, President, Olympia Moving & Storage.

In response to this award, Michael Gilmartin, Founder/CEO of Olympia Moving & Storage said, "I know the effort that our team puts forth every day to meet our client's diverse needs. This is a very difficult job, and our foreman, crew, warehouse and support staff consistently rise to the occasion and approach each move with a "can do" attitude. I deeply appreciate and respect the Olympia team. This award is a testament to their efforts, and I would like to publicly thank everyone for making this possible."

About Best of Boston

Boston Magazine staffers spend a year researching companies within the Boston area to determine which businesses offer the best service to the everyday consumer. The selection process of "Best of Boston" is completely anonymous, as the team that curates the winners list visits businesses of Boston to gauge the services that are offered, the treatment of customers, and overall quality of any given organization.

About Olympia Moving & Storage

Olympia Moving & Storage is a full-service moving and storage company headquartered in Boston MA, with additional offices in Washington DC, Philadelphia PA, and Austin TX. Since its inception in 1993, Olympia has built an unparalleled reputation for delivering exceptional local moving, interstate moving and international moving services. Olympia also offers a wide array of specialized services for companies preparing for an office or commercial move. Olympia Moving is the preferred mover for numerous universities, law firms and real estate organizations. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our 95% customer satisfaction rate and our numerous awards. For more information, visit https://olympiamoving.com or call 800-222-4744.

Media Contact:

Daniel Krechmer | 617.231.1290 | [email protected]

SOURCE Olympia Moving and Storage Inc

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LOS ANGELES, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Allen Media, LLC and Allen Media Co-Issuer, Inc. (collectively, "AMG") announced today the expiration and final results of the previously announced consent solicitation (the "Consent Solicitation") with respect to their 10.500% Senior Notes due 2028 (the "Notes"). The aggregate principal amount of the Notes that were validly tendered and not validly withdrawn as of 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on July 14, 2021, the expiration date of the Consent Solicitation, as reported by the tabulation agent, was $275,079,000, or 91.7% of the outstanding aggregate principal amount of Notes.

As previously announced, AMG is planning to acquire television stations in 10 markets from several parties for approximately $500 million cash in aggregate, transfer broadcast television station KITV to the restricted group and refinance related debt outstanding. The purpose of the Consent Solicitation was to obtain approval to amend and modify the indenture governing the Notes (the "Indenture") and the other related documents to the extent necessary. The proposed amendments would (1) permit the incurrence of additional secured and unsecured indebtedness up to $550.0 million in the aggregate, $210 million of which is expected to be secured indebtedness, and (2) increase the size of AMG's senior credit facilities in connection with the proposed acquisitions, including increasing AMG's existing revolving credit facility from $60 million to $100 million in the aggregate. Adoption of the proposed amendments required the receipt of valid and unrevoked consents from holders of not less than a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Notes.

Holders of the Notes who validly delivered (and did not validly revoke) consents will receive a consent payment equal to $60 in cash for each $1,000 in principal amount of the Notes for which consent was received (the "Consent Fee"). Payment of the Consent Fee is conditioned on (1) the effectiveness of the related amendments to the senior credit facilities to effect the transactions and (2) the closing of certain of the proposed acquisitions. AMG expects to promptly amend the Indenture to give effect to the proposed amendments, which amendments will become operative only if the Consent Fee has been paid following the satisfaction of the conditions noted above.

RBC Capital Markets, LLC served as solicitation agent and Ipreo LLC served as tabulation agent in connection with the Consent Solicitation. Questions or requests for assistance related to the Consent Solicitation or for additional copies of related materials should be directed to Ipreo at (212) 849-3880 or by email to [email protected] or to RBC Capital Markets, LLC at (877) 381-2099 (toll free) or (212) 618-7843 (collect) or by e-mail at [email protected].

This press release is not an offer to sell securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy securities.

About Allen Media Group

Chairman and CEO Byron Allen founded Allen Media Group in 1993. Headquartered in Los Angeles, it has offices in New York, Chicago, Atlanta, and Raleigh. Pro forma for the transaction, Allen Media Group will own 25 ABC-NBC-CBS-FOX network affiliate broadcast television stations and ten 24-hour HD television networks serving over 190 million subscribers: THE WEATHER CHANNEL, PETS.TV, COMEDY.TV, RECIPE.TV, CARS.TV, ES.TV, MYDESTINATION.TV, JUSTICE CENTRAL.TV, THEGRIO.TV, and THIS TV. Allen Media Group will add its eleventh network, THE WEATHER CHANNEL EN ESPANOL in 2022. Allen Media Group also produces, distributes, and sells advertising for 67 television programs, making it one of the largest independent producers/distributors of first-run syndicated television programming for broadcast television stations. With a library of over 5,000 hours of owned content across multiple genres, Allen Media Group provides video content to broadcast television stations, cable television networks, mobile devices, multimedia platforms, and the World Wide Web. Our mission is to provide excellent programming to our viewers, online users, and Fortune 500 advertising partners.

Forward Looking Statements

Some statements in this press release are known as "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements about AMG's plans, objectives, expectations and intentions and other statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts. When used in this press release, the words "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "believes," "seeks," "estimates" and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. Because these forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, there are important factors that could cause actual results, events or developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements, including AMG's plans, objectives, expectations and intentions and other factors. You should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which are based on the information currently available to AMG and speak only as of the date of this press release. AMG undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. However, your attention is directed to any further disclosures made on related subjects in subsequent periodic reports filed with the U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee under the indenture governing the Notes, or posted on the Intralinks website.

SOURCE Allen Media Group
WASHINGTON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Red Cross has elected to its National Board of Governors Carole L. Brown Chief Executive of the Asset Management Group for The PNC Financial Services Group.

The Red Cross is led by a Board of Governors with all of the powers of governing and directing, as well as overseeing the management of the business and affairs of the organization. At the Annual Meeting of the Red Cross held on July 14, 2021, delegates from local Red Cross units elected Brown to a three-year term.

"We are truly honored to welcome Carole L. Brown to the Red Cross Board of Governors," said Chairman Bonnie McElveen-Hunter. "Carole's expertise in banking, investments and financial services will help the Board provide valuable oversight in its governance role that ensures the American Red Cross continues to fulfill its vital mission to alleviate suffering in the face of emergencies."

Carole L. Brown is the chief executive of the Asset Management Group for The PNC Financial Services Group. Prior to her current role, Carole was chief change and risk officer for PNC's Asset Management Group and Corporate & Institutional Banking businesses. Before joining PNC in August 2019, Carole served as chief financial officer for the City of Chicago. Prior to her work for the City of Chicago, Carole had a more than 25-year career as a municipal finance investment banker with various firms including Barclays Capital, Siebert, Brandford, Shank, Inc., Mesirow Financial and Lehman Brothers.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

SOURCE American Red Cross

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FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Atlas Ocean Voyages, the all-inclusive, luxe-adventure cruise brand designed for experienced and fun-seeking travelers, announced today that it will serve up six distinctive dining options aboard its newly constructed small, expedition ship, World Navigator. All guests on all voyages can explore Atlas' regionally inspired gourmet fare through the tantalizing array of options featured in the menus of Porto, Alma, 7AFT Grill, The Dome, Paula's Pantry, and in-room dining. World Navigator launches on August 4, embarking on her inaugural Egypt and Greek Isles summer season, with alternating departures from Athens (Piraeus), Greece, and Cairo (Alexandria), Egypt. For more information about World Navigator and her dining offerings, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com.

"We are happy to present World Navigator's gourmet dining options," said Alberto Aliberti, President of Atlas Ocean Voyages. "Our menus draw inspiration from our company's Portuguese heritage, as well as from the many captivating destinations we will visit, to deliver a delightful gastronomical experience on an Atlas luxe-adventure voyage."

Porto is World Navigator's main dining room, named in celebration of Atlas Ocean Voyages' Portuguese heritage, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a choice of indoor and al fresco seating. Breakfast will present both a la carte and continental buffet options, while Porto's lunch offers a blend of international fare and local dishes, balancing freshly prepared proteins with plant-based superfoods, smoked vegetables, a variety of flavorful cheeses, cold and carved meats, soups, and much more.

Dinner will be flavor-focused and regionally themed nightly, drawing inspiration from foodie-favorite global destinations such as Greece, Peru, Spain, Italy, Japan, and Mexico. Dishes like "Dorade & Greek Fava Dip"  fillet of fresh dorade, traditional fava dip, pickled red onions, fried capers, and new potatoes; and "Solomillo de Cerdo Iberico"  precision-poached and grilled Iberian pork tenderloin, patatas bravas, and spinach, will evoke the flavors of some of World Navigator's inaugural season itineraries. Dinner in Porto is open seating with the restaurant extending its hours to accommodate all guests and provide for social distancing.

A way to experience Portuguese flavors in Porto is with the special Alma menu, which is available on alternate evenings for dinner. "Alma" means soul in Portuguese, and the menu reflects the soul of the cruise line's Portuguese heritage, with recipes that have been lovingly passed down from generations of home cooks. The recipes will celebrate core Portuguese culinary traditions, including artisanal techniques with ceramic jars and other cultural cookware. Dishes include "Bacalhau a Bras"  shredded Portuguese-salted cod with onions, thinly sliced fried potatoes, olives and scrambled eggs, from Lisbon; "Alheira de Mirandela"  traditional Portuguese sausage, wilted green radish tops and potatoes, from Mirandela; and the delectable regional dessert called "Torta de Azeitao"  egg custard rolled in egg dough, from the municipality of Setubal.

Aficionados are in for a wholly unique chophouse dinner experience at the intimate 7Aft Grill, which features a one-of-a-kind shipboard cooking technique called "jospering," a method of grilling that originated in Barcelona in 1969 and is now considered an epic preparation technique in gourmet charcoal gastronomy. 7Aft will be the first shipboard venue in the world to use this renowned preparation method. At dinner, Josper-grilled specialties will include Black Angus filet mignon, New York strip steak, lamb saddle, Dover sole, grilled shrimp, and lobster.

Lunch is also served on 7Aft's pool-deck location and offers modern gastropub-style fare such as smoked bread, chicken marinated 24 hours in blonde beer, hot dogs, smoked ribs, and a range of a la carte soups, pizzas, proteins, carbs and vegetables. Specialty lunch offerings, such as a beef tartare burger served on brioche bread, are freshly made on board, from scratch, and 7Aft's Angus burgers will always be fresh, never frozen.

The Dome is World Navigator's 270o, forward-facing, observation lounge with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, and, by day, a spot for guests to enjoy a light, late lunch after a day spent exploring. With airy indoor seating and an extension into an outdoor seating area, The Dome's aesthetic is inspired by the horizon and sky. Items at The Dome include teas with hot herbal infusions, such as fresh mint and rosemary, iced tea, juices, and cold infusions such as cucumber and lime, cookies, cakes, specialty sandwiches, savory spreads and cheeses, and daily vegetarian selections.

Guests looking for delectable grab-and-go fare with an eco-friendly sensibility can visit Paula's Pantry, named for Mrs. Paula Ferreira, Mystic Invest executive, co-owner and the wife of Chairman Mario Ferreira, the founder of Atlas Ocean Voyages. From early morning through 6 pm daily, Paula's Pantry will serve easy-to-carry beverages such as espresso and specialty coffees made with small batch-roasted, organic, and Fairtrade-certified CaffeMilano beans, Kusmi teas, and fresh juice-based detox offerings featuring celery or turmeric; a variety of cold specialty sandwiches and salads; soups; and cupcakes. Paula's Pantry, as well as throughout World Navigator, will not offer single-use plastics, rather it uses bamboo straws and cutlery and biodegradable plates and cups.

World Navigator also offers room service, with an "always available" menu for all guests, featuring options such as an organic tomato cream soup, burgers, club sandwich, eggplant vegan burger, and a "buddha bowl" salad. For breakfast, guests can choose from a "Classic Breakfast" or "Healthy Breakfast" menu.

Atlas Ocean Voyages is a luxe-adventure expedition cruise brand designed for discerning, fun-seeking travelers to immerse in unique and awe-inspiring moments in remote and captivating destinations. World Navigator fosters a refined and convivial ambience and features the most-modern hygiene and cleanliness measures incorporated into her state-of-the-art design. At 9,930 GRTs, World Navigator features SeaSpa, the first L'OCCITANE spa at sea, and is Polar Category C- and Ice Class 1B-certified. World Navigator will be joined by World Traveller and World Seeker in 2022 and World Adventurer and World Discoverer in 2023.

Atlas' signature All Inclusive All The Way provides all guests a complete and seamless experience by including complimentary round-trip air travel, choice of a shore excursion at every port, unlimited premium wine and spirits, international beers and coffees, prepaid gratuities, polar parkas, emergency medical evacuation insurance, Wi-Fi, L'OCCITANE bath amenities, and regionally inspired gourmet dining. In every stateroom, guests enjoy binoculars to use on board, personalized en suite coffee, tea and bar service, and butler service in suites.

Atlas welcomes travelers to 'come back to something brand new' in the brand's ongoing marketing campaign "At Last Atlas" (www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com/itstime.) To learn more, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com. Travel Advisors can call 1.844.44.ATLAS (1.844.442.8527) to book their clients on an unforgettable luxe-adventure expedition.

SOURCE Atlas Ocean Voyages

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Today, people are no longer embarrassed about believing in extraterrestrials. Leaders around the world agree that Earth has been visited by aliens. Recently, Haim Eshed, former head of Israel's Defense Ministry space directorate, made headlines claiming to be in communication with a UFO. "The Unidentified Flying Objects have asked not to publish that they are herehumanity is not ready yet," Eshed says. Kerry McDonald thinks we are.

The Green Cathedral opens with a crash landing of an alien spacecraft in the rainforest of Costa Rica. According to the New York Times, the U.S. Air Force investigated over 12,000 UFO sightings from 1947-1969. 701 remain unexplained. McDonald explores an unexplainable UFO phenomenon, and introduces a beautiful alien woman who has a deep connection with nature. In a world immersed in crime, nature offers the only escape. Can the extraterrestrials be here to remind humanity?

DEA agent Abel has spent his life with the ugliest side of humanity. He's given in to corruption, bribery, and an illegal side hustle that has him on the run from the cartel. He stumbles upon an alien girl who lives in the jungle. Her space craft crash-landed a decade ago; his life crashed and burned well before that.

They fall in love, but Abel's past has tracked him down.

The Green Cathedral makes us believe in love at first sight, and that nature can heal lost souls, even in the depths of the cartel.

"Non-stop action . . . a real flight and fight to the finish. Absolutely worth a read."

Screencraft

Kerry McDonald is an all-American gymnast and adrenaline junkie who thrives on rock climbing, base jumping, paragliding, yoga, meditation, lucid dreaming, and survival-focused getaways. An expert marksman, Kerry enjoys writing action-adventure stories that provide an adrenaline rush equivalent to life when lived to the fullest.

Level 4 Press: https://www.level4press.com/corporateinformation

Released by IPG

SOURCE Level 4 Press Inc.

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In partnership with the Government of Canada and the Government of Quebec, the project will allow CAE to play a key role in making air travel safer, defence forces mission ready, and helping medical personnel save lives.

The Government of Canada and the Government of Quebec will provide a combined investment of C$340 million over the next five years (C$190 million for Canada and C$150 million for Quebec).

Executives and employees of CAE joined the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, the Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, Canada's Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry as well as Mr. Francois Legault, Premier of Quebec, and Mr. Eric Girard, Quebec's Minister of Finance and Minister of Economy and Innovation for the announcement.

"CAE is launching a major five-year Research and Development investment program which will reinforce CAE's position as a global technology leader, create high-value jobs and collaborations, and contribute to a greener, safer, and more inclusive world," said Marc Parent, CAE's President and Chief Executive Officer. "CAE is a Canadian innovation powerhouse, and our Research and Development will allow us to reinforce our leadership in training by creating digitally immersive solutions across many sectors and markets to make the world a safer place. The project will also allow us to expand into exciting new markets such as advanced air mobility, green light aircraft technologies and next generation healthcare equipment and services. We thank the government of Canada and the government of Quebec who will be partnering with us to open up these new markets for CAE and Quebec and Canada."

"With advanced air mobility, we are on the cusp of a new era of aviation," Parent added. "Disruptive aerospace companies are building cutting edge aircraft and creating a new sector within the industry from the ground up. We are investing to position CAE to be one of the leaders in defining this emerging industry, supporting OEMs with the development, testing and certification of aircraft programs, simulation equipment and the delivery of training to the next generation of pilots and maintenance technicians. It is expected that close to 60,000 uniquely trained professional pilots will be needed to safely fly passengers and cargo in these electric Vertical Take-off and Landing vehicles, and CAE has the expertise to help make it happen."

CAE will harness its unique technological capabilities, long-standing expertise in supporting airworthiness test programs as well as its latest innovations in simulation, virtual/mixed reality (VR/MR) and data analytics to be at the forefront of disruptive mobility technologies such as eVTOL vehicles.

Through the project, CAE will invest in the development of electric aircraft technologies and solutions, including retrofitting its large fleet of light trainer aircraft to reduce its carbon footprint. CAE announced on Sept 28, 2020 that it became the first Canadian aerospace company to reach carbon neutrality.

Creating jobs and investing in future talent

CAE will carry out Project Resilience in Canada, utilizing its R&D laboratories, as well as its test and integration, and training facilities. Throughout Project Resilience, CAE will collaborate and co-develop technology solutions with small and medium companies from across Canada and will create 700 new highly skilled jobs at CAE in Canada, including 600 in Quebec. Through this project, CAE will work with post-secondary institutions, research centres and STEM institutions and create 5,000 Work Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunities for students and 100 new scholarship positions.

CAE employs more than 11,000 people globally, with approximately half of them working in 18 locations across Canada.

The government investments are subject to the finalization of definitive agreements.

The investments in Project Resilience are in line with CAE's current pace of R&D investment.

Quotes from today's government announcement regarding investments in the aerospace industry

"The aerospace sector is a pillar of the Canadian economy, providing good jobs for Canadian workers from coast to coast to coast. It's essential that we support the long-term growth of the sector and help make Canada a world leader in greener, more innovative technologies. The investments announced today will help the aerospace sector increase its research and development efforts so that innovative, greener, more sustainable aircraft can be built right here in Canada for decades to come, creating good jobs for hard-working Canadians."

 The Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry of Canada

"These are major projects that will drive Quebec towards the future! We will design the helicopters and planes of tomorrow here, in Quebec. These devices will generate wealth, all while reducing greenhouse gas emissions all over the planet. The aerospace industry will start up again stronger. Your government will be there to solidify our status as a leader and to ensure a bright future for the Quebec aerospace industry."

 Mr. Francois Legault, Premier of Quebec

About CAE

CAE is a high technology company, at the leading edge of digital immersion, providing solutions to make the world a safer place. Backed by a record of more than 70 years of industry firsts, we continue to reimagine the customer experience and revolutionize training and operational support solutions in civil aviation, defence and security, and healthcare. We are the partner of choice to customers worldwide who operate in complex, high-stakes and largely regulated environments, where successful outcomes are critical. As testament to our customers' ongoing needs for our solutions, over 60 percent of CAE's revenue is recurring in nature. We have the broadest global presence in our industry, with more than 11,000 employees, 160 sites, and training locations in over 35 countries. www.cae.com

Follow us on Twitter: CAE_Inc

Facebook: www.facebook.com/cae.inc

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/cae

Hashtags: #CAE; #CAEpilot

Note to editors: High-resolution photos are available at https://www.cae.com/multimedia-centre/

SOURCE CAE INC.

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CHICAGO, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- CCC Intelligent Solutions Inc. (CCC) announces its plan to further enhance CCC ONE, the collision repair industry's leading estimating platform, incorporating advanced AI into its estimating application later this quarter. The new feature, CCC ONE Estimating  IQ, will provide collision repair facilities a jump start on estimating, applying machine learning to pre-populate estimates with parts and labor operations based on photos of vehicle damage and configurations by the repair facility. The upgrade will put advanced AI at the fingertips of estimators across the industry, informing and speeding the repair process and improving the repair experience for their customers.

"Collision repairers have helped inform CCC's industry-leading AI models writing more than 150 million estimates on CCC ONE. CCC is now applying that knowledge to accelerate estimating for collision repairers," said Mark Fincher, Vice President, Market Solutions, CCC Intelligent Solutions. "CCC is excited to make AI-driven estimating available to tens of thousands of repair facilities nationwide using CCC ONE. Incorporating our proven AI, CCC ONE Estimating - IQ will streamline routine tasks and give collision estimators more time to focus on high impact activities."

The incorporation of AI into CCC ONE follows a recent modernization of the CCC ONE Estimating interface. The intuitively designed interface delivers mobility and functionality that makes writing estimates at the vehicle quick and easy, including real-time tips and reminders, improved in-line editing capabilities, and an enhanced shopping cart for parts ordering at the time of estimate. CCC ONE Estimating - IQ can accept photos of vehicle damage shared from insurers with repair partners when appointments are booked after an accident. Photos shared include CCC's AI heat map technology, giving repairers more visibility to incoming vehicle damage, speeding repair planning.

"The improved CCC ONE experience underscores CCC's commitment to providing collision repairers with trusted technology," said Arlo Johnson, SVP Insurance at Driven Brands. "As vehicles get more complex and connectivity with partners becomes more important to reducing cycle time, collision repairers need to have real-time access to information and advanced insights. CCC ONE helps us keep pace with and drive improvements across our business."

CCC ONE Estimating  IQ will be made available to all repair facilities who license CCC ONE Estimating. Insurer-provided photos of vehicle damage are available to repairers using the CCC Engage customer experience platform. CCC ONE Estimating - IQ is compatible with any full-screen, web-enabled device and incorporates online updates, providing repair facilities with new levels of versatility and a strong foundation for ongoing innovation.

Learn more about CCC ONE Estimating - IQ.

About CCC

CCC is a leading SaaS platform for the multi-trillion-dollar P&C insurance economy powering operations for insurers, repairers, automakers, part suppliers, lenders, and more. CCC cloud technology connects more than 30,000 businesses digitizing mission-critical workflows, commerce, and customer experiences. A trusted leader in AI, IoT, customer experience, network and workflow management, CCC delivers innovations that keep people's lives moving forward when it matters most. Learn more about CCC at www.cccis.com.

Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that are based on beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the following words: "may," "will," "could," "would," "should," "expect," "intend," "plan," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "project," "potential," "continue," "ongoing" or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. These statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from the information expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the launch of CCC's offering of CCC ONE Estimating  IQ, the benefits and availability of product features and functions and the success of the offering. Such differences may be material. We cannot assure you that the forward-looking statements in this press release will prove to be accurate. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, among others, challenges inherent in product research and development; competition, including technological advances and new products marketed by competitors; changes to applicable laws and regulations; and other risks and uncertainties, including those included under the header "Risk Factors" in the registration statement on Form S-4 (the "registration statement") filed by Dragoneer Growth Opportunities Corp. ("Dragoneer") with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and those included under the header "Risk Factors" in the Dragoneer annual report on Form 10-K, as amended, both of which can be obtained, without charge, at the SEC's website (www.sec.gov). The forward-looking statements in this press release represent our views as of the date of this press release. We anticipate that subsequent events and developments will cause our views to change. However, while we may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, we have no current intention of doing so except to the extent required by applicable law. You should, therefore, not rely on these forward-looking statements as representing our views as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release.

Additional Information

In connection with the business combination, Dragoneer has filed with the SEC the registration statement, which included a preliminary proxy statement and preliminary prospectus. Dragoneer has mailed the proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant documents to its shareholders on or about July 7, 2021. This press release is not a substitute for the registration statement, the proxy statement/prospectus or any other document that Dragoneer is sending to its shareholders in connection with the business combination. Investors and security holders of Dragoneer are advised to read the proxy statement/prospectus in connection with Dragoneer's solicitation of proxies for its extraordinary general meeting of shareholders to be held on July 29, 2021 to approve the business combination (and related matters) because the proxy statement/prospectus contains important information about the business combination and the parties to the business combination. The proxy statement/prospectus will be mailed to shareholders of Dragoneer as of June 7, 2021, the record date. Shareholders may also obtain copies of the proxy statement/prospectus, without charge, at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov or by directing a request to: Dragoneer Growth Opportunities Corp., One Letterman Drive, Building D, Suite M500, San Francisco, California, 94129.

Participants in the Solicitation

Dragoneer, CCC and their respective directors, executive officers, other members of management, and employees, under SEC rules, may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies of Dragoneer's shareholders in connection with the business combination. Investors and security holders may obtain more detailed information regarding the names and interests in the business combination of Dragoneer's directors and officers in Dragoneer's filings with the SEC, including the registration statement, which includes the proxy statement/prospectus of Dragoneer for the business combination, and such information and names of CCC's directors and executive officers are also included in such registration statement.

Disclaimer

This press release is for informational purposes only and is neither an offer to purchase, nor a solicitation of an offer to sell, subscribe for or buy any securities or the solicitation of any vote in any jurisdiction pursuant to the business combination or otherwise, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer or securities in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

SOURCE CCC Intelligent Solutions Inc.
LONDON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Chubb has today announced two senior appointments to its United Kingdom & Ireland (UK&I) Casualty team.

Ben Campey has been appointed London Corporate Casualty Manager, while Chris Templeton becomes UK&I Construction Casualty Manager.

In his new role Ben will be responsible for leading and growing Chubb's London Middle Market casualty portfolio, working alongside business development managers and other lines of business. He will report to Emma Bartolo, Corporate Regional Manager, London.

Ben was previously Casualty Underwriting Manager for Manchester and joined Chubb in 2018. Prior to that he worked at QBE in a variety of casualty roles in both the UK and Australia.

The promotion of Chris Templeton meanwhile means he will now be responsible for developing Chubb's construction casualty specialism across the UK&I. He will also support the wider business to grow construction casualty globally outside North America.

Chris, who was previously Executive Underwriter for Chubb's London casualty team, brings nearly 20 years of insurance experience to the role. He joined Chubb in 2003 as an Assistant Underwriter before moving to the casualty team in 2007. He will report to Alexander Forman, UK&I Casualty Manager.

Both appointments are effective immediately.

Alexander Forman said: "I am delighted we have been able to make these significant promotions from within our UK&I Casualty team. Both Ben and Chris bring with them a wealth of experience and understanding which will help us further develop our Casualty business in London and across the rest of the UK&I."

About Chubb



Chubb is the world's largest publicly traded property and casualty insurance company. With operations in 54 countries and territories, Chubb provides commercial and personal property and casualty insurance, personal accident and supplemental health insurance, reinsurance and life insurance to a diverse group of clients. As an underwriting company, we assess, assume and manage risk with insight and discipline. We service and pay our claims fairly and promptly. The company is also defined by its extensive product and service offerings, broad distribution capabilities, exceptional financial strength and local operations globally. Parent company Chubb Limited is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: CB) and is a component of the S&P 500 index. Chubb maintains executive offices in Zurich, New York, London, Paris and other locations, and employs approximately 31,000 people worldwide. Additional information can be found at: www.chubb.com.

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SOURCE Chubb
LAWRENCE, Kan., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Sanitation workers employed by the City of Lawrence unanimously ratified their first Teamster contract yesterday. The three-year agreement contains a modernized wage scale and substantial benefits as well as strong seniority language, grievance procedure, consistent work rules and improved working conditions. The group of more than 70 sanitation workers is represented by Local 696 in Topeka, Kan.

"We are thrilled to be working under contract. This agreement contains countless improvements that sanitation workers in Lawrence have gone too long without. We are proud of what we have accomplished," said Jody Norcross, a sanitation driver for the City of Lawrence and chief steward at Local 696. "This is a huge win. We hope this win will encourage other workers for the City of Lawrence to join us and build on our momentum to continue bringing real change to this city."

Norcross served as one of the leading voices on the worker-led organizing committee during last summer's campaign to win union representation with Local 696. On August 27, he and his co-workers voted by an overwhelming 99 percent to join the Teamsters.

"My co-workers and I came together and worked as a team throughout the bargaining process. We were united from the start in what we were trying to achieve in this contract," said Sean Elston, a sanitation driver who also served as a leading member of the bargaining committee. "When workers thrive, the entire community benefits."

Despite the challenges caused by COVID-19, Elston said the pandemic served as a reminder of the crucial work he and his co-workers provide and made them more determined to secure a strong first contract. He also noted that the agreement will serve as a solid foundation for the 71-worker unit to make future gains at the bargaining table.

"This contract will ensure workers for the City of Lawrence receive the respect they deserve. This dedicated group did what they set out to accomplish when they first reached out to Local 696 to unionize. They were determined to secure the backing of a strong Teamster contract," said Matt Hall, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 696. "We are proud of this historic victory and congratulate this determined group for leading the way. Local 696 will continue to fight for all workers at the City of Lawrence to win a union voice."

Contact: Matt Hall, (785) 424-4831

[email protected]

SOURCE Teamsters Local 696
Conducted by 451 Research, the enterprise technology research unit of S&P Global Market Intelligence, the survey also found that approximately 76% of respondents said their organizations have undergone moderate to significant transformation in ways of working since the beginning of 2020, with smaller, but still substantial, groups pointing to transformation in IT business operations (52%) and revenue-generating activities (47%). Significant levels of business transformation showed a strong connection with the experience of disruption in 2020. Respondents who experienced major disruption were far more likely to have also undertaken a significant transformation in each of those categories.

"Since early 2020, we have been closely tracking businesses' attitudes and reactions related to the COVID-19 pandemic and we have seen a wide variety of practices and technologies being adopted in response to it," says Liam Eagle, Head of Voice of the Enterprise Research at 451 Research, part of S&P Global Market Intelligence. "However, as businesses show optimism and focus on the future, many of them have also transformed. Our most recent survey highlights ways in which these organizations see themselves as fundamentally and permanently changed by the demands of 2020, in terms of how they work, how they execute IT, and even in many cases the products and services they deliver and how they deliver them."

451 Research's Digital Pulse Flash Survey features responses collected between May 6 to June 21, 2021 from approximately 500 IT decision-makers across a range of industries. The new study tracked the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic from initial impact to response and long-term planning.

Highlights from the survey include:

Enterprises faced significant disruption in 2020, but most are optimistic about performance in 2021. Nearly two-thirds (63%) of enterprises describe the adverse impacts their businesses faced in 2020 as either moderate or major disruption, with one-quarter (25%) indicating they faced major disruption. However, organizations overwhelmingly express positive expectations for 2021 performance, with 90% describing their expectations for 2021 as somewhat or very optimistic.



Nearly two-thirds (63%) of enterprises describe the adverse impacts their businesses faced in 2020 as either moderate or major disruption, with one-quarter (25%) indicating they faced major disruption. However, organizations overwhelmingly express positive expectations for 2021 performance, with 90% describing their expectations for 2021 as somewhat or very optimistic. 2020 saw widespread reinvention of business processes. When asked about the degree to which their organizations had transformed since the beginning of 2020, the enterprises indicate moderate or significant transformation to their ways of working (76%), IT business operations (52%) and revenue-generating or service delivery activities (47%).



When asked about the degree to which their organizations had transformed since the beginning of 2020, the enterprises indicate moderate or significant transformation to their ways of working (76%), IT business operations (52%) and revenue-generating or service delivery activities (47%). Disruption and reinvention are closely connected. Enterprises that experienced major disruption during 2020 were much more likely than average to have undergone significant transformation with respect to ways of working (62% compared to 42%), IT business operations (30% vs 18%) and revenue-generating activities (40% vs 16%).



Enterprises that experienced major disruption during 2020 were much more likely than average to have undergone significant transformation with respect to ways of working (62% compared to 42%), IT business operations (30% vs 18%) and revenue-generating activities (40% vs 16%). Pandemic-imposed practices have become permanent ways of working for many. Nearly all enterprises surveyed (93%) report their ways of working have been at least slightly transformed since the beginning of 2020, with 42% indicating significant transformation. Among those, most expect to be fundamentally different going forward in that they are significantly more reliant on remote work (75%), significantly more reliant on technology for internal collaboration (69%) and significantly less reliant on business travel (58%). Close to half (40%) expect significantly reduced office space or workspaces.



Nearly all enterprises surveyed (93%) report their ways of working have been at least slightly transformed since the beginning of 2020, with 42% indicating significant transformation. Among those, most expect to be fundamentally different going forward in that they are significantly more reliant on remote work (75%), significantly more reliant on technology for internal collaboration (69%) and significantly less reliant on business travel (58%). Close to half (40%) expect significantly reduced office space or workspaces. New requirements have driven lasting transformation of IT processes . Responding to operational challenges posed by 2020 required enterprises to rely on new technologies, and 83% of enterprises surveyed describe some degree of transformation in their IT business operations as a result. More than half (59%) of those report being more security-conscious in their decision-making, and almost as many (57%) note increased reliance on cloud-based technologies. Nearly half (48%) also note greater automation in their IT infrastructure operations.



. Responding to operational challenges posed by 2020 required enterprises to rely on new technologies, and 83% of enterprises surveyed describe some degree of transformation in their IT business operations as a result. More than half (59%) of those report being more security-conscious in their decision-making, and almost as many (57%) note increased reliance on cloud-based technologies. Nearly half (48%) also note greater automation in their IT infrastructure operations. Transformation during 2020 aligns with increased IT spending across categories, however, that growth shows signs of slowing in key cases. Significant portions of enterprises showed increased spending during 2020 in several IT categories, led by employee productivity tools (45%), information security (42%) and public cloud (32%).

S&P Global Market Intelligence's 451 Research unit provides highly differentiated and proprietary research for the high-growth emerging technology sectors. This enterprise technology research offering complements S&P Global Market Intelligence's broad universe of research sector coverage including energy, financial institutions groups, leveraged loans, metals & mining and TMT (Technology, Media and Telecom).

The latest survey is a follow-up to the COVID-19 Flash Survey published in October 2020, which assessed the impact the COVID-19 pandemic and U.S. presidential election had to the future of work as well as enterprise-wide changes that companies have and/or are looking to implement. To access the full report, please contact [email protected].

S&P Global Market Intelligence's opinions, quotes, and credit-related and other analyses are statements of opinion as of the date they are expressed and not statements of fact or recommendation to purchase, hold, or sell any securities or to make any investment decisions, and do not address the suitability of any security.

About S&P Global Market Intelligence

At S&P Global Market Intelligence, we know that not all information is importantsome of it is vital. We integrate financial and industry data, research and news into tools that help clients track performance, generate alpha, identify investment ideas, understand competitive and industry dynamics, perform valuations and assess credit risk. Investment professionals, government agencies, corporations and universities globally can gain the intelligence essential to making business and financial decisions with conviction.

S&P Global Market Intelligence is a division of S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI). For more information, visit www.spglobal.com.

Media Contact

Amanda Oey

S&P Global Market Intelligence

+1 212-438-1904

[email protected]

SOURCE S&P Global Market Intelligence
DENVER, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Veritas Fine Cannabis , Colorado's first craft cannabis cultivator, has announced that Dale Katechis, founder of Oskar Blues Brewery , has joined the company's leadership team and will take an active role in driving the brand's strategic growth initiatives to the next level.

Dale Katechis Veritas Fine Cannabis' Premium 1/8th Jars

'From the first time we met Dale, I was amazed with the similarities in his early days at Oskar Blues and our more recent experience at Veritas." said Mike Leibowitz, managing partner and co-founder of Veritas Fine Cannabis. "Dale maintained company culture and quality as he grew Oskar Blues into a household name. Maintaining our unique company culture is paramount as we work to build Veritas Fine Cannabis into the same"

Katechis, who led Oskar Blues to international fame, brings his grassroots passion for craft culture and experience scaling craft businesses to Veritas. Katechis grew Oskar Blues from a small town basement brewing operation into one of the world's largest craft breweries with his commitment to disrupting the status quo in the name of quality, culture and innovation. In the cannabis industry, which is currently experiencing corporatization through Multistate Operators, Katechis hopes to guide Veritas with the same ethos, to remain independent and committed to growing craft cannabis of the highest quality.

"The extra attention and detail the Veritas team gives its plants to ensure consistent freshness and flavor reminds me of the craft culture at Oskar Blues. We were obsessed with brewing distinctive, in-your-face beers and educating drinkers about the advantages of cans, while others in the industry seemed more worried about how many cases of beer they could sell," said Katechis. "I am looking forward to helping Veritas in a similar wayas the cannabis industry consolidates, standing up to corporate cannabis in favor of flavor will be our priority."

In his new role at Veritas, Katechis will continue his commitment to raising industry standards in the best interest of quality products and consumers. Veritas and Katechis plan to expand the Veritas Fine Cannabis brand nationally, instilling a culture of disruption and innovation without compromising quality.

About Veritas Fine Cannabis

Consistency, honesty, transparency. These are the guiding principles that set Veritas Fine Cannabis apart as one of America's first premium cannabis wholesalers. Named after the Roman goddess of truth, Veritas is more than a cultivator; it is a curator of the cannabis experience. From first cuts through harvest and packaging, the Veritas team does everything by hand to optimize the full expression of a strain's terpenes that yield singular effects. The company continually adds to its library of hundreds of proprietary genetics and catalogues each cultivar by terpene profile so consumers can find the perfect Veritas product to fit their individual needs. With buzzworthy strain drops each month, Veritas leads the market in connoisseur cannabis. For more information, visit VeritasCannabis.com .

Media Contact:

Trevor Maniscalo

Grasslands: A Journalism-Minded Agency

[email protected]

630-841-1017



SOURCE Veritas Fine Cannabis
LITTLE ROCK, Ark., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Delta Dental of Arkansas has been named one of the 2021 Best Places to Work in Arkansas for the ninth consecutive year in the annual survey conducted by Arkansas Business Publishing Group and Best Companies Group. Delta Dental is one of only three Arkansas companies that have won the recognition every year since the survey was launched in 2013.

The largest provider of dental benefits in the state, Delta Dental invests heavily in the onboarding and ongoing training and professional development of its workforce, according to the nomination. It offers career-aligned programs, leadership education and internal advancement opportunities to all employees, including those in non-supervisory or non-executive roles. Furthermore, it provides excellent insurance and retirement benefits and above-average paid time off to encourage employees to achieve a healthy work/life balance.

"We are honored and excited to win the Best Places to Work recognition for the ninth year in a row," said President and CEO Ed Choate. "Delta Dental of Arkansas is a very special place where our employees care deeply for each other, our customers, brokers and providers. As a result, they are happiest when they provide the best service possible and that happens all the time!"

To determine the annual Best Places to Work in Arkansas honorees, companies from across the state are invited to enter a two-part survey. The assessment consists of an evaluation of each nominee's workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics, and an employee survey, weighted more heavily, to measure employee satisfaction.

The full list of honorees includes 50 companies, including perennial winners Delta Dental of Arkansas, Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield and St. Bernards Medical Center. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/36nYS20.

About Delta Dental of Arkansas

Delta Dental of Arkansas is the largest dental benefits provider in the state, helping more than 800,000 Arkansans keep their smiles healthy through commercial and Medicaid coverage. As a not-for-profit company, Delta Dental is committed to improving the oral health of Arkansans through the philanthropic efforts of its Foundation, which donated more than $3 million to support oral health education initiatives in the last three years. For more information, visit https://www.deltadentalar.com/.

Media Contact: Dave Hawsey

Vice President, Marketing

(c) 501-813-2315

[email protected]

www.deltadentalar.com

SOURCE Delta Dental of Arkansas

Related Links

deltadentalar.com


CHICAGO and MILWAUKEE, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Everspring and Marquette University announce an expansion of their partnership to include Marquette's new online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) completer program. Everspring, a leading provider of higher education technology solutions and services, will provide marketing assistance, enrollment support and student services support to help Marquette promote the program, grow enrollments and support students to successful program completion.

Marquette University boasts a nationally ranked undergraduate business program with a focus on applied learning, exposure to global perspectives and the promotion of ethical business practices. The new online BSBA completer program, which will be the university's first bachelor's degree completion program to be offered online, will provide the benefits of a Marquette undergraduate business degree in a flexible online format for students who wish to return to school to finish their bachelor's degree.

"Marquette is committed to expanding educational opportunity for those who need it most," Marquette University Provost Kimo Ah Yun said. "Our new online BSBA completer program will allow non-traditional students and working professionals with college credit to advance their education and careers by completing a bachelor's degree in a way that fits into their lives. Everspring's support is vital to helping us identify and reach those students, enroll them in the program and ensure they graduate."

Online Degree Completer Program Helps Meet Need

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment demand in business and finance is experiencing above average growth, with an additional 5% expected growth from 20192029. This growth makes the BSBA degree a smart investment for individuals with associate degrees looking to obtain a bachelor's degree, or for those who have previously pursued, but have not yet completed, a bachelor's degree. The online BSBA completer program will begin enrolling students in January 2022.

"Marquette's new online BSBA completer program is directly aligned with Everspring's mission to expand access to high quality programs by bringing them to a broad range of learners," said Beth Hollenberg, president and co-founder of Everspring. "It is increasingly important for universities to expand beyond the typical four-year college experience and provide flexible options for students with some credit but no degree and who want to advance their education or upskill in their careers. The online BSBA completer is a terrific avenue for that, and Everspring is excited to help the program launch and grow."

About Marquette University

Marquette University is a Catholic, Jesuit university located near the heart of downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin, that offers a comprehensive range of majors in 11 nationally and internationally recognized colleges and schools. A Marquette education offers students a virtually unlimited number of paths and destinations and prepares them for the world by asking them to think critically about it. Marquette's mission is the search for truth, the discovery and sharing of knowledge, the fostering of personal and professional excellence, the promotion of a life of faith and the development of leadership expressed in service to others. Along the way, they ask one thing of every student: Be The Difference. For more information, visit marquette.edu .

About Everspring

Everspring is a leading provider of education technology and services solutions for higher education. Our advanced technology, proven marketing approach, and robust faculty support and instructional design services deliver outstanding outcomes for our university partners, powering their success online. Everspring offers a range of full-service turnkey solutions, as well as standalone fee-for-service offerings, and innovative self-service products that enable universities to establish themselves as leaders in the digital delivery of higher education. Based in Chicago, Everspring serves a growing number of colleges and universities, nationwide.

Visit www.everspringpartners.com for more information. Don't just go digital. BE DIGITAL.

SOURCE Everspring

Related Links

everspringpartners.com


"Leveraging our downstream capabilities and working alongside Albania to explore expanding their access to reliable energy, we are able to take an integral step towards energy security for the country," stated Steven Kobos, President and Chief Executive Officer of Excelerate. "Together with Snam and Albgaz, we recognize the potential impact this pipeline can have for the region."

As the leader in floating LNG regasification solutions, Excelerate has delivered reliable, clean energy to markets across the globe, developing and operating 13 LNG terminals worldwide. This MOU is the latest example of Excelerate's emphasis on greater integration of services for gas and power customers.

Snam is one of the largest energy infrastructure owner and operators in the world and a leading shareholder in the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP). Snam and Albgaz's Albanian Gas Service Company Sh.A, who maintain the gas transmission network in Albania, could potentially operate and maintain the future pipeline.

"This MOU further strengthens our commitment with Albania initiated four years ago," said Mario Franchin, Senior Vice President Global Solutions Commercial at Snam. "It marks another important step forward in the development of Albania's energy strategy and Snam is pleased to share its experience and know how to support the country and Albgaz in its path in the energy transition."

Mr. Arber Avrami, CEO of Albgaz underlined, "This is a unique opportunity for Albania, to cooperate with such big actors that can provide essential knowledge and experience in order to deliver benefits not only from gas transmission activities, but also to exploit an important natural asset such as Dumrea underground gas storage. This can offer energy security options not only for Albania, but also reliable energy supply for international gas networks."

The MOU was signed at the Palace of Congresses in Tirana by representatives from each entity: Arber Avrami, CEO, Albgaz; Oliver Simpson, Vice President of Commercial, Excelerate; and Mario Franchin, Senior Vice President Global Solutions Commercial, Snam. The planning is expected to begin immediately with representatives from each company forming a coordination team.

Earlier this year, Excelerate, along with ExxonMobil, and The Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy signed an MOU to conduct a feasibility study for the potential development of an LNG import Terminal in the Port of Vlora in Southern Albania.

About Excelerate Energy:

Excelerate Energy L.P. is a US-based LNG company located in The Woodlands, Texas. It is part of a privately held U.S. energy group founded by George Kaiser. Excelerate is the pioneer and market leader in innovative floating LNG solutions, providing integrated services along the entire LNG value chain with an objective of delivering rapid-to-market and reliable LNG solutions to customers. Excelerate offers a full range of floating regasification services from FSRU to infrastructure development to LNG supply. Excelerate has offices in Abu Dhabi, Buenos Aires, Chittagong, Dhaka, Doha, Dubai, Rio de Janeiro, Salem, Singapore, and Washington, DC.

About Snam:

Snam is one of the world's leading energy infrastructure operators and ranks among Italy's largest listed companies, by market capitalization. Through its international footprint, Snam operates in Albania, Austria, France, Greece, Italy, UAE and UK and has started activities in China and India. The Group has the largest natural gas transportation network (over 41,000 km including international assets) and storage capacity (approx. 20 bcm including international assets) among its European peers and is also a leading player in regasification. Snam invests in biomethane, energy efficiency, sustainable mobility and hydrogen. The Group also operates in forestation and is committed to achieving carbon neutrality (Scope 1 and Scope 2) by 2040.

About Albgaz:

Albgaz Sh.a. was founded in January 2017 as a joint stock company with 100% of the shares owned by the Albanian state, and operates as a combined operator performing the activity of transmission system operator and natural gas distribution system operator in Albania. The main activity of Albgaz Sh.a. is to supply natural gas through the transmission, distribution, storage, and natural gas plant network.

SOURCE Excelerate Energy L.P.
WASHINGTON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A new poll finds that Arizona voters overwhelmingly blame President Biden for the border crisis and oppose efforts by to include a massive amnesty for illegal aliens in a spending bill intended to upgrade the nation's infrastructure. The poll of 603 likely voters in Arizona was conducted by Zogby Analytics on behalf of the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) between July 9 and 12.

Democratic leaders are seeking to use the Budget Reconciliation process that allows legislation that has significant impact on the federal budget to bypass normal Senate rules that require 60 votes to bring a bill to the floor. Invoking Budget Reconciliation would allow passage with just 51 votes.

By large margins, 49% to 38%, Arizona voters object to the use of this legislative tactic "to enact major immigration legislation." Opposition to including amnesty for millions of illegal aliens cut across all demographic and party lines. Further, voters clearly reject the idea of large-scale amnesty in the midst of unprecedented numbers of new illegal migrants crossing our borders.

Among the key findings of the poll:

57% of Arizona voters agree that granting "amnesty, or a pathway to citizenship, to millions of illegal immigrants already in the United States " would exacerbate the current immigration and border crisis.

voters agree that granting "amnesty, or a pathway to citizenship, to millions of illegal immigrants already in " would exacerbate the current immigration and border crisis. 63% of Arizona voters hold the Biden administration and its policies responsible for the current immigration and border crisis.

voters hold the Biden administration and its policies responsible for the current immigration and border crisis. 73% believe that the "situation at the border represents a humanitarian, health, and national security crisis for the United States and steps must be taken to end it."

and steps must be taken to end it." 49% of voters oppose of including an amnesty for illegal aliens in a bill to fund infrastructure upgrades. Only 38% would support such an effort.

55% said they would be less likely to support Senator Kyrsten Sinema if she were to support efforts to short-circuit normal Senate rules in order to gain amnesty for illegal aliens. Only 22% said it would make them more likely to support her.

if she were to support efforts to short-circuit normal Senate rules in order to gain amnesty for illegal aliens. Only 22% said it would make them more likely to support her. 48% said they would be less likely to support Senator Mark Kelly if he were to support efforts to short-circuit normal Senate rules in order to gain amnesty for illegal aliens. Only 27% said it would make them more likely to support him.

"It is clear to people in Arizona that amnesty for illegal aliens has no place in a bill to upgrade our nation infrastructure," said Dan Stein, president of FAIR. "Illegal aliens can in no reasonable way be construed as infrastructure and people of all political stripes have a visceral objection to gimmicking Senate rules to enact social policies, like a massive amnesty, that could never gain passage on their own merits.

"The reckless policies of the Biden administration have created an unprecedented illegal immigration crisis. The voters are very clear: Any senator who yields to pressure from their party's fringe, and resorts to legislative trickery to gain amnesty for millions of illegal aliens, does so at his or her political peril," concluded Stein.

The full results of the Zogby Analytics poll can be found here.

Contact: Matthew Tragesser, 202-328-7004 or [email protected]

ABOUT FAIR

Founded in 1979, FAIR is the country's largest immigration reform group. With over 3 million members and supporters nationwide, FAIR fights for immigration policies that serve national interests, not special interests. FAIR believes that immigration reform must enhance national security, improve the economy, protect jobs, preserve our environment, and establish a rule of law that is recognized and enforced.

SOURCE Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR)

Related Links

http://www.fairus.org


WASHINGTON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A new poll finds that Georgia voters blame President Biden for the border crisis and recognize that granting amnesty to millions of illegal aliens would make it worse. The poll of 804 likely voters in Georgia was conducted by Zogby Analytics on behalf of the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) between July 9 and 12.

Among the key findings of the poll:

54% of voters agree that granting "amnesty, or a pathway to citizenship, to millions of illegal immigrants already in the United States " would exacerbate the current immigration and border crisis.

" would exacerbate the current immigration and border crisis. 61% of Georgia voters hold the Biden administration and its policies responsible for the current immigration and border crisis.

voters hold the Biden administration and its policies responsible for the current immigration and border crisis. 74% believe that the "situation at the border represents a humanitarian, health, and national security crisis for the United States and steps must be taken to end it."

and steps must be taken to end it." 50% said they would be less likely to support Senator Raphael Warnock if he were to support efforts to short-circuit normal Senate rules in order to gain amnesty for illegal aliens. Only 29% said it would make them more likely to support him.

"The reckless policies of the Biden administration have created an unprecedented illegal immigration crisis. The voters are very clear: Any senator who yields to pressure from their party's fringe, and resorts to legislative trickery to gain amnesty for millions of illegal aliens, does so at his or her political peril," concluded Stein.

The full results of the Zogby Analytics poll can be found here.

Contact: Matthew Tragesser, 202-328-7004 or [email protected]

ABOUT FAIR

Founded in 1979, FAIR is the country's largest immigration reform group. With over 3 million members and supporters nationwide, FAIR fights for immigration policies that serve national interests, not special interests. FAIR believes that immigration reform must enhance national security, improve the economy, protect jobs, preserve our environment, and establish a rule of law that is recognized and enforced.

SOURCE Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR)

Related Links

http://www.fairus.org


WASHINGTON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A new poll finds that New Hampshire voters overwhelmingly blame President Biden for the border crisis and oppose efforts by to include a massive amnesty for illegal aliens in a spending bill intended to upgrade the nation's infrastructure. The poll of 401 likely voters in New Hampshire was conducted by Zogby Analytics on behalf of the Federation for American Immigration Reform between July 9 and 12.

Democratic leaders are seeking to use the Budget Reconciliation process that allows legislation that has significant impact on the federal budget to bypass normal Senate rules that require 60 votes to bring a bill to the floor. Invoking Budget Reconciliation would allow passage with just 51 votes.

By large margins, 50% to 34%, New Hampshire voters object to the use of this legislative tactic "to enact major immigration legislation." Opposition to including amnesty for millions of illegal aliens cut across all demographic and party lines. Further, voters clearly reject the idea of large-scale amnesty in the midst of unprecedented numbers of new illegal migrants crossing our borders.

Among the key findings of the poll:

54% of voters agree that granting "amnesty, or a pathway to citizenship, to millions of illegal immigrants already in the United States " would exacerbate the current immigration and border crisis.

" would exacerbate the current immigration and border crisis. 57% of New Hampshire voters hold the Biden administration and its policies responsible for the current immigration and border crisis.

voters hold the Biden administration and its policies responsible for the current immigration and border crisis. 69% believe that the "situation at the border represents a humanitarian, health, and national security crisis for the United States and steps must be taken to end it."

and steps must be taken to end it." 50% of voters oppose of including an amnesty for illegal aliens in a bill to fund infrastructure upgrades. Only 34% would support such an effort.

50% said they would be less likely to support Senator Jeanne Shaheen if she were to support efforts to short-circuit normal Senate rules in order to gain amnesty for illegal aliens. Only 21% said it would make them more likely to support her.

"It is clear to people in New Hampshire that amnesty for illegal aliens has no place in a bill to upgrade our nation infrastructure," said Dan Stein, president of FAIR. "Illegal aliens can in no reasonable way be construed as infrastructure and people of all political stripes have a visceral objection to gimmicking Senate rules to enact social policies, like a massive amnesty, that could never gain passage on their own merits.

"The reckless policies of the Biden administration have created an unprecedented illegal immigration crisis. The voters are very clear: Any senator who yields to pressure from their party's fringe, and resorts to legislative trickery to gain amnesty for millions of illegal aliens, does so at his or her political peril," concluded Stein.

The full results of the Zogby Analytics poll can be found here.

Contact: Matthew Tragesser, 202-328-7004 or [email protected]

ABOUT FAIR

Founded in 1979, FAIR is the country's largest immigration reform group. With over 3 million members and supporters nationwide, FAIR fights for immigration policies that serve national interests, not special interests. FAIR believes that immigration reform must enhance national security, improve the economy, protect jobs, preserve our environment, and establish a rule of law that is recognized and enforced.

SOURCE Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR)

Related Links

http://www.fairus.org


MENLO PARK, Calif., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Global consulting firm Protiviti has been named one of the Fortune 2021 Best Workplaces in New York. To determine the list, Great Place to Work analyzed confidential survey feedback from more than 78,000 employees in the New York tri-state area. Protiviti, who also made the list in 2020, is one of 60 large companies to be recognized this year.

Employees responded to over 60 survey questions describing the extent to which their organization creates a Great Place to Work For All. Eighty-five percent of the evaluation was based on what employees said about their experiences of trust and reaching their full human potential as part of their organization, no matter who they are or what they do. The survey also assessed their daily experiences of innovation, the company's values and the effectiveness of their leaders.

"We've worked hard to keep employee morale high during the unique challenges of the last year, so this recognition is gratifying," said Kimberly Dickerson, a Protiviti managing director and market lead for its New York office. "We've offered a range of additional programs and benefits to support our people during the pandemic, and we've utilized technology to make sure they stay connected and informed while working remotely. Our New York employees have participated in virtual wellbeing activities, such as meditation and yoga sessions, and online social events, including movie nights, book clubs, game shows and wine tastings. They've also been able to express their thoughts and concerns during our global Courageous Conversations events, which promote a safe environment for open dialogue on racial injustice and similar topics."

Companies are assessed on how well they are creating a great employee experience that cuts across race, gender, age, disability status, or any aspect of who employees are or what their role is. "Earning a spot on the Best Workplaces in New York list is an especially significant award this year, as the pace and shape of work has changed dramatically," said Michael C. Bush, CEO of Great Place to Work. "Leaders at these companies have showed exceptional care for their people. And this support resonates with all employee groups. It doesn't matter what pronoun they use, their experience level or their pay grade, all people have a great experience."

Since 2015, Protiviti has been named consistently to the annual Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list, which is based on the Great Place to Work survey. The firm has also been recognized on multiple other Great Place to Work lists, including Best Workplaces for Diversity, Parents, Consulting and Professional Services, and regional lists in Texas, Chicago and the San Francisco Bay Area. Details of all Protiviti's awards can be found at https://www.protiviti.com/US-en/company-recognition.

About Protiviti

Protiviti (www.protiviti.com) is a global consulting firm that delivers deep expertise, objective insights, a tailored approach and unparalleled collaboration to help leaders confidently face the future. Protiviti and its independent and locally owned Member Firms provide clients with consulting and managed solutions in finance, technology, operations, data, analytics, governance, risk and internal audit through its network of more than 85 offices in over 25 countries.

Named to the 2021 Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list, Protiviti has served more than 60 percent of Fortune 1000 and 35 percent of Fortune Global 500 companies. The firm also works with smaller, growing companies, including those looking to go public, as well as with government agencies. Protiviti is a wholly owned subsidiary of Robert Half (NYSE: RHI). Founded in 1948, Robert Half is a member of the S&P 500 index.

Protiviti is not licensed or registered as a public accounting firm and does not issue opinions on financial statements or offer attestation services.

Editor's note: Protiviti photo available upon request

SOURCE Protiviti

Related Links

http://www.protiviti.com


ATLANTA, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- While summer's heat has moderated recently, Georgia experienced temperatures reaching into the 90s in many parts of the state earlier this summer. Georgia Power is reminding customers that the company offers energy assistance programs to those in need of help paying or reducing those early summer energy bills.

Assistance when you need it

Georgia Power offers energy assistance programs in communities across Georgia and has established partnerships with nonprofits, community and faith-based organizations to assist income-qualifying customers with their energy costs. The company's programs are offered to help meet the changing needs of customers across the state and proactively identify solutions to meet their specific needs and help determine eligibility for utility assistance and programs:

Georgia Power's Income-Qualified Senior Citizen Discount  Georgia Power customers 65 years of age or older who meet the income requirements for eligibility can receive up to $24 a month off their bill.

 Georgia Power customers 65 years of age or older who meet the income requirements for eligibility can receive up to a month off their bill. HopeWorks  HopeWorks and Georgia Power offer senior residential customers valuable information on ways to save money on their energy bill while keeping their homes comfortable and efficient. Income-eligible seniors can receive a complimentary in-home assessment analyzing potential energy-saving opportunities, followed by a free home energy improvement service performed by a participating program contractor.

 HopeWorks and Georgia Power offer senior residential customers valuable information on ways to save money on their energy bill while keeping their homes comfortable and efficient. Income-eligible seniors can receive a complimentary in-home assessment analyzing potential energy-saving opportunities, followed by a free home energy improvement service performed by a participating program contractor. The Salvation Army's Project SHARE  Established in partnership with The Salvation Army, Georgia Power customers can provide assistance to residents in the same community for expenses, such as utility bills, housing, food and medical necessities. Customers can donate $1 , 2, 5 or $10 on their monthly bill to support their neighbors in need. Georgia Power matches $1.50 for each dollar donated up to $1.5 million .

Customers can learn more about the company's energy assistance programs and apply at www.GeorgiaPower.com/EnergyAssistance.

Tips, tools & resources

Georgia Power offers efficiency tips and tools that can help all customers save money and energy throughout the year. Hundreds of easy energy tips, whether you own a home or rent, are available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/EnergyEfficiency.

Simple summer tips to save money and energy include:

Think Thermostat  Heating and cooling costs make up nearly half of your average power bill. Set manual thermostats to 78F in the summer for peak efficiency and make the most of programmable thermostats, which help decrease energy use based on your lifestyle. Each degree cooler can increase your bill by 4%.

 Heating and cooling costs make up nearly half of your average power bill. Set manual thermostats to 78F in the summer for peak efficiency and make the most of programmable thermostats, which help decrease energy use based on your lifestyle. Each degree cooler can increase your bill by 4%. Use your Fans  Using a ceiling fan costs only about $1.50 a month and will help you feel cooler without having to adjust your thermostat.

 Using a ceiling fan costs only about a month and will help you feel cooler without having to adjust your thermostat. Air Vents  To maintain consistent temperatures throughout your home, keep air vents and registers clear of obstructions such as furniture, curtains and rugs.

 To maintain consistent temperatures throughout your home, keep air vents and registers clear of obstructions such as furniture, curtains and rugs. Trim Plants and Change Filters  To ensure your unit receives proper air flow, change any filters and trim plants around your outside unit.

 To ensure your unit receives proper air flow, change any filters and trim plants around your outside unit. Food Storage - Set your refrigerator thermostat between 35F and 38F, and your freezer to 0F to run at peak efficiency - but be careful not to over fill!

Set your refrigerator thermostat between 35F and 38F, and your freezer to 0F to run at peak efficiency - but be careful not to over fill! Heat in the Kitchen  Reduce the temperature inside your home by cooking food in the microwave or stove top instead of the oven when possible. Match pots and pans to the burner size to minimize heat loss. Use lids on pots to keep in heat.

Additionally, Georgia Power's My Power Usage program, a free service connected to Georgia Power online accounts, allows customers to track their daily energy use online, project their monthly bill and stay within a set energy budget.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America's premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company's promise to 2.6 million customers in all but four of Georgia's 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy at rates below the national average, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), Twitter (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

SOURCE Georgia Power

Related Links

http://www.georgiapower.com


ATLANTA, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Georgia Power's solar programs continue to drive strong solar growth across the state. The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) has ranked the state of Georgia as the #7 state in the U.S. for 2020 solar photovoltaic installations, marking the state's place in the top 10 for the fourth consecutive year. Georgia Power solar installations represent 93% of the solar additions reported for Georgia in 2020.

Solar expansion continues in 2021 as the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) certified an additional 970 MW of utility-scale solar through Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) on July 6, 2021. The company plans to have approximately 5,400 MW* of renewable energy resources in its portfolio by the end of 2025, comprising approximately 22 percent of the company's generation mix.

For years, Georgia Power has worked with the PSC to develop and expand cost-effective renewable energy resources and has one of the largest voluntary renewable portfolios in the country. The company offers a variety of programs, options, and services designed to benefit all customers, but does not endorse specific solar marketers or engage in door-to-door solar sales. If an employee needs to visit a customer's home or business for some other reason, they will be in uniform and present a badge with a photo, their name and Georgia Power logo. They will also be in a vehicle marked with the company's logo.

"We are proud of our commitment to solar development and the recognition for Georgia by SEIA as a leader in advancing renewable energy for the state we call home," said Wilson Mallard, director of Renewable Development for Georgia Power. "We have focused on growing cost-effective solar and other renewable energy options for all customers in coordination with the Georgia PSC, and we remind customers to always confirm critical program and participation details before signing up for any solar offer."

Solar Programs and Services

Georgia Power's renewable development offerings include innovative customer programs such as Community Solar, Simple Solar, Customer Renewable Supply Procurement (CSRP), and Customer-Connected Solar Program (CCSP).

The company offers a full range of programs and services to provide customers options for using solar energy to power their homes and businesses. Customers can learn more about the following Georgia Power solar programs and contact the company's solar experts at georgiapower.com/solar.

Community Solar  Customers who sign up for Community Solar enjoy similar benefits as residential customers who own solar panels without having to install a system on their home. Community Solar allows you to support the development of solar power in Georgia by subscribing to a portion of local solar farms. Your family then receives energy credits on your monthly bill based on the solar farm's production.

 Customers who sign up for Community Solar enjoy similar benefits as residential customers who own solar panels without having to install a system on their home. Community Solar allows you to support the development of solar power in by subscribing to a portion of local solar farms. Your family then receives energy credits on your monthly bill based on the solar farm's production. Simple Solar  Simple Solar gives any interested Georgia Power customer, residential or business, the ability to purchase certified Renewable Energy Credits to match a percentage of their monthly energy usage.

 Simple Solar gives any interested Georgia Power customer, residential or business, the ability to purchase certified Renewable Energy Credits to match a percentage of their monthly energy usage. Solar rooftop installation  For customers who want to install their own personal solar rooftop generation system, Georgia Power offers a solar education, consultation, and installation service, provides interconnection assistance, and has options to give customers credit for the energy they send back to the power grid.

 For customers who want to install their own personal solar rooftop generation system, Georgia Power offers a solar education, consultation, and installation service, provides interconnection assistance, and has options to give customers credit for the energy they send back to the power grid. Customer Renewable Supply Procurement  This program allows commercial and industrial (C&I) customers to support their sustainability initiatives. Georgia Power will procure new renewable generation through power purchase agreements (PPAs) for subscription by C&I customers.

 This program allows commercial and industrial (C&I) customers to support their sustainability initiatives. Georgia Power will procure new renewable generation through power purchase agreements (PPAs) for subscription by C&I customers. Customer-Connected Solar Program  This program allows customers to partner with any solar developer to build a solar facility on or adjacent to the customer's property. Georgia Power will purchase 100% of the energy generated.

*REC Disclaimer: Georgia Power purchases only the null energy output from some renewable generating facilities that have contracted to sell that energy to Georgia Power. Ownership of the associated renewable energy credits ("RECs") is specified in each respective power purchase agreement. The party that owns the RECs retains the right to use them.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America's premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company's promise to 2.6 million customers in all but four of Georgia's 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy at rates below the national average, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), Twitter (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

SOURCE Georgia Power

Related Links

http://www.georgiapower.com


PALO ALTO, Calif., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Gong, the revenue intelligence leader, announced today that Kelly Breslin Wright has been newly appointed as the company's President and Chief Operating Officer after serving as Gong's board member for five months.

Gong Names Kelly Breslin Wright President & COO

Wright brings over 30 years of go-to-market, operational, and board experience for public and private high-growth companies. Wright was Tableau Software's first sales hire, rising through the ranks to become executive vice president of sales, and helped lead the startup through an IPO and to $850 million in revenue. She brings specific expertise in go-to market thought leadership, enterprise and global scale, and public company experience to Gong. Wright will transition out of her role as board member and into her new role leading operations and helping scale the organization through its next stage of growth, effective immediately.

"Gong is transforming the world of sales for the better. With its category leadership, customer engagement, and phenomenal team, the opportunity at Gong is like a dream come true," said Wright. "I'm ecstatic to jump back into an operational role that integrates my lifelong passions for sales, data, and culture. I can't wait to help Gong drive innovation at scale."

On the heels of its recent $250 million Series E funding and European expansion efforts, Gong continues its massive growth serving more than 2,000 revenue teams across multiple industries and geographies. With its increased momentum serving large enterprises in North America and Europe, Wright joins the company's executive leadership team to lead and scale the company's revenue, marketing, and customer success teams.

"We were excited when Kelly joined our board of directors five months ago," said Amit Bendov, CEO of Gong. "Now, we couldn't be more thrilled to welcome Kelly onto our executive leadership team and leverage her wealth of experience to help scale and support our accelerated growth."

About Gong

Gong enables revenue teams to realize their fullest potential by unveiling their customer reality. The patented Gong Revenue Intelligence Platform captures and understands every customer interaction, then delivers insights at scale, empowering revenue teams to make decisions based on data instead of opinions. Over 2,000 innovative companies like LinkedIn, MuleSoft, Paychex, PayPal, Shopify, Slack, Sprout Social, Twilio, and Zillow trust Gong to power their customer reality. With Gong, customers experience improved win rates, increased deal sizes, and accelerated employee ramp-times. Gong is a private company headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area. For more information, visit www.gong.io or follow us on LinkedIn .

SOURCE Gong

Related Links

https://www.gong.io


BLOOMFIELD, N.J., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- New Jersey Urology (NJU) unveiled their newly renovated pathology laboratory on Wednesday, July 14, 2021. This state-of-the-art lab offers world-class pathology services by integrating diagnostic excellence and unparalleled service.

NJU Grand Opening: World-Class Pathology Laboratory - Ribbon-cutting Ceremony. NJU Diagnostics: Dr. Adnan Savera and Laboratory Employees.

New Jersey Urology's Grand Opening ribbon-cutting ceremony was hosted by COO Victor Houtz, and speeches were given by CEO Scott Ciccarelli, Dr. Marty Goldstein, President, Dr. Adnan Savera, Executive Vice President and Medical Director, and honored guest Bloomfield Mayor Michael Venezia.



NJU DIAGNOSTICS PATHOLOGY LABORATORY

Located in Bloomfield, New Jersey, the 7,866 sq. ft. pathology laboratory, designed by Posen Architects, LLC and constructed by the Walsh Group, offers a world-class lab with state-of-the-art instruments, specialized and efficient processes for high throughput testing, and high quality results. Newly added is its Molecular department, which will further advance NJU's diagnostic armamentarium. NJU Diagnostics, a division of New Jersey Urology, has invested in cutting-edge molecular platforms, including PCR and Next Gen Sequencing, and new molecular assays include genetic testing for personalized care of oncology patients, COVID-19 testing, and PCR-based assay for UTI.

With this expansion, NJU Diagnostics now offers several anatomic and clinical pathology testing modalities and receives approximately 1,000 new specimens a day, performing over 27,000 tests monthly, totaling approximately 330,000 annually.

"As our understanding of cancer becomes more clear, it is apparent that successful treatment must be personalized," said Dr. Martin Goldstein, President of New Jersey Urology. "The opening of this lab will help us individualize our cancer treatment based on one's own genetic makeup and assist us in providing better prognostic information to our patients and their families."

Leading the charge, and a nationally recognized GU pathologist, is Dr. Adnan Savera, Executive Vice President and Medical Director of NJU Diagnostics. Dr. Savera is an elected Fellow of the International Society of Urological Pathology and College of American Pathologists and a member of the American Urological Association.

"Today's ceremony is a tangible reminder of our missiondeliver the highest quality and cutting-edge laboratory services," said Dr. Adnan Savera. "This has been possible, in part, by our unwavering commitment to Innovation and Excellence  which is in our DNA, and our renovated facility and new test offerings are a bold reflection of this commitment."

"With the introduction and continued investment into these cutting-edge, personalized services, we are delivering on our commitment of advancing care and improving patient outcomes," said Scott Ciccarelli, CEO.

About New Jersey Urology:

NJU is one of the largest urology practices in the United States. The practice provides complete urologic care and comprehensive individualized treatment at more than 60 convenient locations, including six state-of-the-art Cancer Treatment Centers. Utilizing the latest technology and techniques in the industry, NJU offers advanced urologic care with a personal touch.

About Urology Management Associates:

Urology Management Associates was formed to provide administrative services to New Jersey Urology. UMA enables NJU to continue to focus on providing world-class urology services while remaining a physician-led organization. UMA plans to partner with additional urology groups to provide administrative practice management services in the greater New York metropolitan area with long-term plans to expand nationally.

Media contact:

Kathy Meyer

[email protected]

973-453-5652

SOURCE New Jersey Urology
HANGZHOU, China, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hangzhou Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio, TV and Tourism hosted 'Hangzhou Style Life of Song Dynasty Charm'  an event featuring a selection of eight segments  on the afternoon of July 9, 2021, in Macao. Residents and visitors had the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with Hangzhou's sophisticated lifestyle and the timeless quality of aesthetics from an earlier era while absorbing the harmonious beauty of art and life.

Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8925751-hangzhou-style-life-of-song-dynasty-charm-culture-and-tourism-events-in-macao/

Drawing inspiration from popular painting styles during the Song Dynasty period, the event featured eight segments, each highly representative of life during the era, namely:

Blue Sky After Rain

Playing the Chinese Zither Under Brightly-lit Windows

Engraving Memories

Enjoying Flowers and Drinking Tea and Yellow Wine

Fragrances of the Song Dynasty Era

Perfumed Clothes and Gorgeous Hair - Song Dynasty High Society Ladies

Leisure and Elegance

Enjoying the Charm of the Song Dynasty

On the day, 'Song of the Seven Sons', a collection of patriotic poems which has come to represent Macao's return to China, was played on the Chinese zither in the ancient Zhe School style. Additionally, a cute Peppa Pig was printed using the block printing method popular during the Song Dynasty period. There were also flowers on display arranged in Southern Song Dynasty celadon pottery. All these elements combined to ensure the culture of Song Dynasty Charm in Hangzhou instantly found a home within the context of Macao's urban style.

Other integral elements that traveled along the Maritime Silk Road on ships connecting Hangzhou and Macao were on display including an ancient method of restoring pottery, a bird cage made of imperial gold using the wire inlay technique of the Southern Song Dynasty, and imperial yellow wine reproduced exactly as it was made in the past. These are all part of the history of Song culture and highlight the fact that elegance has always been important everywhere.

In the second half of 2021 in Hangzhou, the Bureau plans to further explore the meaning and promote the new brand, Culture of Song Dynasty Charm, by hosting the 'Hangzhou Style Life of Song Dynasty Charm' and the 'Su Dongpo Culture Festival', in tandem with the launch of 'Workshops of Hangzhou Culture' which is an experiential lesson in the charm of the Song Dynasty.

SOURCE Hangzhou Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio, TV and Tourism
LUND, Sweden, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Hansa Biopharma, the pioneer in immunomodulatory enzyme technology for rare IgG mediated diseases, today announced its business update and interim report for January  June, 2021.

Highlights for the second quarter 2021

Commercial launch activities for Idefirix  in Europe are progressing as planned in early launch countries, such as the Nordics, Benelux, U.K. and Germany . Hansa continues to prioritize its Market Access efforts through close interactions with national reimbursement authorities and leading transplant clinics.

in are progressing as planned in early launch countries, such as the Nordics, Benelux, U.K. and . Hansa continues to prioritize its Market Access efforts through close interactions with national reimbursement authorities and leading transplant clinics. In late June 2021 , the Swedish New Therapies Council recommended the use of Idefirix  as desensitization treatment for highly sensitized kidney transplant patients. The recommendation provided by the New Therapies Council in Sweden represents the first national level decision by an EU member state.

, the Swedish New Therapies Council recommended the use of Idefirix as desensitization treatment for highly sensitized kidney transplant patients. The recommendation provided by the New Therapies Council in represents the first national level decision by an EU member state. Hansa hosted an Idefirix  launch symposium on June 30, 2021 with attendance from more than 120 transplant physicians representing around 80 transplant centers from 13 European countries.

launch symposium on with attendance from more than 120 transplant physicians representing around 80 transplant centers from 13 European countries. Following U.S. FDA interactions, the U.S. trial design for a randomized, controlled trial of imlifidase in highly sensitized kidney transplant patients was announced in late June 2021 . The new study will target 64 patients with the highest unmet medical need in the U.S., with the first patient expected to be included in H2 2021 as previously guided.

. The new study will target 64 patients with the highest unmet medical need in the U.S., with the first patient expected to be included in H2 2021 as previously guided. Patient recruitment in the phase 2 clinical studies in active antibody mediated rejection (AMR) and Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) continues under a risk-based, site-by-site approach due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In the AMR and GBS trials, 12 and 10 patients, respectively, out of a target of 30 patients in each of the studies have now been enrolled. The persistent presence of the COVID-19 pandemic in Europe , most recently the emergence of the Delta variant causing new waves in several European countries where important trial centers are located, negatively impacts enrollment rates. As remedial action, efforts are underway to initiate recruitment in new centers. While the increase in number of active trial centers is expected to also increase the enrollment rate in H2 2021 despite the continued impact of COVID-19, the volatility of the situation leads Hansa to expand its guidance for completion of enrollment to also include the first half of 2022. First data read-out in both studies is expected in the second half of 2022, as previously guided.

, most recently the emergence of the Delta variant causing new waves in several European countries where important trial centers are located, negatively impacts enrollment rates. As remedial action, efforts are underway to initiate recruitment in new centers. While the increase in number of active trial centers is expected to also increase the enrollment rate in H2 2021 despite the continued impact of COVID-19, the volatility of the situation leads Hansa to expand its guidance for completion of enrollment to also include the first half of 2022. First data read-out in both studies is expected in the second half of 2022, as previously guided. IND-enabling toxicology studies for the NiceR program were initiated in the second quarter as planned. GLP toxicology studies are expected to be completed in 2022. Upon successful completion of these studies, Hansa expects to advance the NiceR program into clinical studies.

Annual General Meeting held on May 12, 2021 , all resolutions were approved by shareholders, including the appointment of Hilary Malone , Ph.D. to the Board of Directors. Dr. Malone is currently COO and EVP at Valo Health, Inc. (U.S.) and has previously held global executive positions at Sanofi, Reata Pharmaceuticals, Pfizer, Wyeth and AstraZeneca, among others.

, all resolutions were approved by shareholders, including the appointment of , Ph.D. to the Board of Directors. Dr. Malone is currently COO and EVP at Valo Health, Inc. (U.S.) and has previously held global executive positions at Sanofi, Reata Pharmaceuticals, Pfizer, Wyeth and AstraZeneca, among others. Handelsbanken Fonder reported ownership above 5% on April 6 2021.

Financial summary

Solid cash position of SEK 1,139m at the end of June 2021 . Hansa expects its operations to be financed into 2023.

at the end of . Hansa expects its operations to be financed into 2023. Investments in R&D in the second quarter amounted to SEK 55m (Q2'20: SEK 53m ) and to SEK 102m for the first half-year (H1'20: SEK 106m ). SG&A expenses amounted to SEK81m in Q2 2021 (Q2'20: SEK 49m ) and to SEK 141m for the first half-year (H1'20: SEK 88m ), in line with plans.

(Q2'20: ) and to for the first half-year (H1'20: ). SG&A expenses amounted to in Q2 2021 (Q2'20: ) and to for the first half-year (H1'20: ), in line with plans. Cash flow from operating activities for the second quarter ended at SEK -113m (Q2'20: SEK -77m ) and SEK -233m for the first half of 2021 (H1'20: -199m ).

SEKm, unless otherwise stated - unaudited Q2 2021 Q2 2020 H1 2021 H1 2020 Revenue 4.5 0.6 13.5 1.5 Gross profit 2.2 0.5 9.5 1.0 SG&A expenses -81.2 -49.4 -141.3 -88.0 R&D expenses -54.5 -53.0 -101.9 -105.5 Operating profit/loss -132.4 -101.8 -236.0 -193.2 Net profit/loss -132.6 -99.2 -236.5 -192.6 Cash flow from operating activities -112.5 -77.4 -233.4 -198.6 Cash and short-term investments 1,139.4 400.2 1,139.4 400.2 Shareholders' equity 1,031.2 378.1 1,031.2 378.1 EPS before and after dilution (SEK) -2.98 -2.48 -5.32 -4.81 Number of outstanding shares 44,473,452 40,026,107 44,473,452 40.026.107 Weighted avg. number of shares before and after dilution 44,473,452 40,026,107 44,473,452 40.026.107 Number of employees 113 78 113 78

Sren Tulstrup, President and CEO of Hansa Biopharma, comments

"Hansa Biopharma's transformation into a fully integrated, commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company has become a reality in 2021, and we continue to deliver on our strategic priorities to build tomorrow's Hansa Biopharma by ensuring the successful commercialization of Idefirix in the first markets, advancing our platform in new indications and therapeutic areas, building our organizational capabilities and expanding our technology platform.

In Europe, we continue to roll out our commercial launch activities in the early launch countries as planned and are pleased with the progress we have made so far. As part of this effort, Hansa hosted a very productive Idefirix launch symposium on June 30, 2021 with attendance from more than 120 transplant physicians representing 80 transplant centers from 13 European countries. The symposium focused on Idefirix as the potential new standard of care for highly sensitized kidney transplant patients needing desensitization treatment and included multiple sessions where expert speakers discussed specific patient cases to address topics around patient selection, AMR management and patient care.

Hansa also continues to maintain close interactions with national reimbursement authorities and leading transplant clinics. A first national level market access decision was announced on June 28, 2021 by Sweden's New Therapies Council, who recommends use of Idefirix as a desensitization treatment for highly sensitized kidney transplant patients in Sweden.

We are very pleased with this decision, which is an important step for transplant clinics across Sweden who would like to introduce Idefirix as a desensitization treatment to enable highly sensitized patients to qualify for potentially lifesaving and life-altering kidney transplant from a deceased donor. The recommendation follows an earlier health-economic assessment by the Swedish Dental and Pharmaceutical Benefits Agency (TLV), which concluded that Idefirix treatment would be cost effective or even cost saving for the society. Moving forward, we expect additional decisions and agreements around reimbursement, funding and market access to be reached in other early launch countries beginning in the second half of 2021 and onwards.

In the U.S., Hansa announced the study design for a randomized, controlled trial of imlifidase in highly sensitized kidney transplant patients. In the study, 64 highly sensitized kidney patients with a cPRA score of 99.9% will be enrolled, representing a subset of very highly sensitized patients that continue to be disadvantaged despite prioritization under the U.S. Kidney Allocation System.

We are pleased to move forward with this study that we believe could support a BLA in the U.S. under the accelerated approval pathway in the first half of 2024. Preparatory work has been initiated and we expect to engage with 12-15 leading U.S. transplantation centers to conduct the study. Among the new centers are Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago and University of Alabama (UAB) Hospital in Birmingham. Robert A. Montgomery, M.D. Professor of Surgery and Director, NYU Langone Transplant Institute, New York City has been appointed t Principal Investigatorand we expect study initiation over the summer with the first patient enrolled in the second half of 2021.

In our ongoing phase 2 programs for GBS and AMR, we see patient enrollment progressing again following a temporary halt in the recruitment process during large parts of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At the end of 2020, patient enrollment was reinitiated in both studies under a risk-based, site-by-site approach.

As of July 15, 2021, 12 out of a target of 30 patients have now been enrolled in the AMR study, while 10 out of a target of 30 patients have been enrolled in the GBS study. To increase the rate of enrollment of patients in both studies, we plan to open additional centers this summer, reaching a total of 14 centers in the AMR study and 10 centers in the GBS trial compared to the 7 centers currently enrolling in each of the two studies. The persistent presence of the COVID-19 pandemic in Europe, most recently the emergence of the Delta variant, which has caused new waves in several European countries where important trial centers are located, continues to negatively impact enrollment rates. Given the volatility of the situation, we expand our guidance for completion of enrollment to also include the first half of 2022.

We are also pleased to have now initiated IND enabling toxicology studies with the lead candidate from our next generation of antibody cleaving enzymes, also known as "NiceR". NiceR is a new set of enzymes developed for repeat dosing scenarios that may potentially open up a broad array of new indications to pursue, including reoccuring AMR, relapsing autoimmune diseases and oncology.

Lastly, I also want to highlight how we continue to build a high-performance organization while adding new competences. At the end of June, Hansa had 113 employees, which represents close to a threefold increase in less than 3 years. Our international team is a diverse, talented and highly experienced group of professionals driven by a passion to make a difference for patients with rare immunologicdiseases.

I look forward to keeping you updated on the progress of Hansa Biopharma's journey as we take the next steps towards building a global leader in rare diseases across multiple broad therapeutic areas through the development of new, transformative medicines for patients suffering from rare immunologic diseases."

Upcoming milestones and news flow

H2 2021 Kidney transplantation US: First patient dosed

H2 2021 Anti-GBM: Clarity around the regulatory path forward

H2'21/H1'22 AMR Phase 2 study: Complete enrollment

H2'21/H1'22 GBS Phase 2 study: Complete enrollment

2022 NiceR: Completion of GLP tox studies

H2 2022 Kidney transplantation US: Complete enrollment

H2 2022 AMR Phase 2 study: First data read out

H2 2022 GBS Phase 2 study: First data read out

H2 2023 Kidney transplantation US: 12 months follow-up completed

H1 2024 Kidney transplantation US: BLA submission

Conference call details

Hansa Biopharma will host a telephone conference today Thursday July 15 14:00 CET / 8:00am EST.



The presentation will be held in English and be hosted by Hansa Biopharma's CEO, Sren Tulstrup, and CFO, Donato Spota. Slides used in the presentation will be live on the company website during the call under "Events & Presentation" and will also be made available online after the call.

To participate in the telephone conference, please use the dial-in details provided below:

Sweden: +46 850 558 368

United Kingdom: +44 333 300 92 72

United States: +1 646 722 49 57

The webcast will be available on https://streams.eventcdn.net/hansa/interim-report-for-january-june-2021/

The interim report and latest investor presentation can be downloaded from our web

Interim report January  June 2021

https://investors.hansabiopharma.com/English/financial-data/quarterly-report/default.aspx

Investor road show presentation Q2, 2021

https://investors.hansabiopharma.com/English/events-and-presentations/presentations/default.aspx

This is information that Hansa Biopharma AB is obliged to make public pursuant to the Securities Markets Act.

For further information, please contact:



Klaus Sindahl, Head of Investor Relations

Hansa Biopharma

Mobile: +46 (0) 709-298 269

E-mail: [email protected]

Katja Margell, Head of Corporate Communications

Hansa Biopharma

Mobile: +46 (0) 768-198 326

E-mail: [email protected]

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/hansa-biopharma-ab/r/hansa-biopharma-interim-report-jan-june-2021,c3385188

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/1219/3385188/1445031.pdf 20210715 HNSA - Q2 2021 Quarterly Report BoD FINAL ENG

SOURCE Hansa Biopharma AB
DUBLIN, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Power Management IC Market: Global Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2021-2026" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global power management IC market reached a value of US$ 28.5 Billion in 2020. Looking forward, the publisher expects the market to exhibit moderate growth during 2021-2026. Keeping in mind the uncertainties of COVID-19, we are continuously tracking and evaluating the direct as well as the indirect influence of the pandemic on different end use industries. These insights are included in the report as a major market contributor.



A power management integrated circuit (PMIC) refers to an array of combined microchips that are used to manage the flow of energy between transistors and capacitors in electronic devices. It is commonly utilized in battery-operated electronics, including smartphones, portable media players, wearable devices and healthcare equipment. It performs various operating functions, such as power and battery management, system control, voltage regulation, audio and interface functions and other application-specific tasks. Owing to this, PMIC finds extensive applications across electronics, automotive, computing devices, communication and healthcare industries.



The growing demand for battery-powered consumer devices across the globe is one of the key factors driving the growth of the market. Furthermore, the growth of the telecommunication sector and various technological advancements in wireless technology and peripheral devices are other major growth-inducing factors. The market is also being driven by the growing environmental-consciousness leading to the construction of cities with smart grid systems as their integral part. This is leading to an increasing demand for PMIC systems to manage wired and non-wired connections. Additionally, rising automation in the automotive industry is contributing significantly to the market growth. Automobile manufacturers utilize PMIC systems to efficiently manage extreme battery voltage fluctuations, extend the battery life and operate security systems. Other factors, including the widespread adoption of energy harvesting systems and the integration of Big Data and Internet of Things (IoT) across various industry verticals, are projected to drive the market in the upcoming years.

Competitive Landscape:



The report has also analysed the competitive landscape of the market with some of the key players being Analog Devices Inc., Dialog Semiconductor Plc, Linear Technology Corporation, Maxim Integrated Products Inc., NXP Semiconductors, On Semiconductor Corporation, Renesas Electronics Corporation, STMicroelectronics N.V., Texas Instruments Inc., etc.



Key Topics Covered:



1 Preface



2 Scope and Methodology



3 Executive Summary



4 Introduction

4.1 Overview

4.2 Key Industry Trends



5 Global Power Management IC Market

5.1 Market Overview

5.2 Market Performance

5.3 Impact of COVID-19

5.4 Market Forecast



6 Market Breakup by Product

6.1 Linear Regulator ICs

6.1.1 Market Trends

6.1.2 Market Forecast

6.2 Switching Regulator ICs

6.2.1 Market Trends

6.2.2 Market Forecast

6.3 Voltage Reference ICs

6.3.1 Market Trends

6.3.2 Market Forecast

6.4 Power Management ASICs/ASSPs

6.4.1 Market Trends

6.4.2 Market Forecast

6.5 Others

6.5.1 Market Trends

6.5.2 Market Forecast



7 Market Breakup by Application

7.1 Communication

7.1.1 Market Trends

7.1.2 Market Forecast

7.2 Computing Devices

7.2.1 Market Trends

7.2.2 Market Forecast

7.3 Consumer Electronics

7.3.1 Market Trends

7.3.2 Market Forecast

7.4 Automotive

7.4.1 Market Trends

7.4.2 Market Forecast

7.5 Healthcare

7.5.1 Market Trends

7.5.2 Market Forecast

7.6 Others

7.6.1 Market Trends

7.6.2 Market Forecast



8 Market Breakup by Region

8.1 North America

8.1.1 United States

8.1.1.1 Market Trends

8.1.1.2 Market Forecast

8.1.2 Canada

8.1.2.1 Market Trends

8.1.2.2 Market Forecast

8.2 Asia Pacific

8.2.1 China

8.2.1.1 Market Trends

8.2.1.2 Market Forecast

8.2.2 Japan

8.2.2.1 Market Trends

8.2.2.2 Market Forecast

8.2.3 India

8.2.3.1 Market Trends

8.2.3.2 Market Forecast

8.2.4 South Korea

8.2.4.1 Market Trends

8.2.4.2 Market Forecast

8.2.5 Australia

8.2.5.1 Market Trends

8.2.5.2 Market Forecast

8.2.6 Indonesia

8.2.6.1 Market Trends

8.2.6.2 Market Forecast

8.2.7 Others

8.2.7.1 Market Trends

8.2.7.2 Market Forecast

8.3 Europe

8.3.1 Germany

8.3.1.1 Market Trends

8.3.1.2 Market Forecast

8.3.2 France

8.3.2.1 Market Trends

8.3.2.2 Market Forecast

8.3.3 United Kingdom

8.3.3.1 Market Trends

8.3.3.2 Market Forecast

8.3.4 Italy

8.3.4.1 Market Trends

8.3.4.2 Market Forecast

8.3.5 Spain

8.3.5.1 Market Trends

8.3.5.2 Market Forecast

8.3.6 Russia

8.3.6.1 Market Trends

8.3.6.2 Market Forecast

8.3.7 Others

8.3.7.1 Market Trends

8.3.7.2 Market Forecast

8.4 Latin America

8.4.1 Brazil

8.4.1.1 Market Trends

8.4.1.2 Market Forecast

8.4.2 Mexico

8.4.2.1 Market Trends

8.4.2.2 Market Forecast

8.4.3 Others

8.4.3.1 Market Trends

8.4.3.2 Market Forecast

8.5 Middle East and Africa

8.5.1 Market Trends

8.5.2 Market Breakup by Country

8.5.3 Market Forecast



9 SWOT Analysis



10 Value Chain Analysis



11 Porters Five Forces Analysis



12 Price Indicators



13 Competitive Landscape

13.1 Market Structure

13.2 Key Players

13.3 Profiles of Key Players

13.3.1 Analog Devices Inc.

13.3.1.1 Company Overview

13.3.1.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.1.3 Financials

13.3.1.4 SWOT Analysis

13.3.2 Dialog Semiconductor Plc

13.3.2.1 Company Overview

13.3.2.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.2.3 Financials

13.3.3 Linear Technology Corporation

13.3.3.1 Company Overview

13.3.3.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.4 Maxim Integrated Products Inc.

13.3.4.1 Company Overview

13.3.4.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.4.3 Financials

13.3.4.4 SWOT Analysis

13.3.5 NXP Semiconductors

13.3.5.1 Company Overview

13.3.5.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.5.3 Financials

13.3.5.4 SWOT Analysis

13.3.6 On Semiconductor Corporation

13.3.6.1 Company Overview

13.3.6.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.6.3 Financials

13.3.6.4 SWOT Analysis

13.3.7 Renesas Electronics Corporation

13.3.7.1 Company Overview

13.3.7.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.7.3 Financials

13.3.7.4 SWOT Analysis

13.3.8 Stmicroelectronics N.V.

13.3.8.1 Company Overview

13.3.8.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.8.3 Financials

13.3.8.4 SWOT Analysis

13.3.9 Texas Instruments Inc.

13.3.9.1 Company Overview

13.3.9.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.9.3 Financials

13.3.9.4 SWOT Analysis

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/d8k6mo



Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



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SOURCE Research and Markets

Related Links

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AMSTERDAM, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- MoonRadar is a complete solution for companies creating Binance Smart Chain projects and provides a full suite of tools to improve the quality of their service. It helps traders to dodge the possibilities of entangling with malicious practices like rug pulls or honeypot scams. MoonRadar lets the users enjoy free features like swapping Moonswap tokens, managing portfolios and obtaining a list of best projects to invest into.

MoonRadar proposes many features like DeX trading, crypto purchase, portfolio management dashboard, donations, and casinos. Once opted for the $MRF token, users can avail of many benefits and a particular GEM notification facility. The token's deflationary, antidumping and higher initial tax quality assures preliminary stability to owners. The GEM notification also informs holders about the latest enlistment of promising projects, thus, keeping them ahead of everyone else.

This platform is currently a hidden gem that equips companies with booster pad features to improve their BSC projects. MoonRadar has onboarded at least 13 meme coins and helped them in realizing their true potentials. Elon Musk backed one of these meme coins himself, which pushed its market cap to more than $1.5 billion. MoonRadar offers whitelisting solutions that help users identify the potential threats, pick their perfect coin to invest in, and inform them about newly audited projects. To avail of all these features, all a user has to do is hold a specified amount of MoonRadar tokens and hold them on their wallets for as long as they want. The $MRF token forms the core of the MoonRadar ecosystem.

Investing in crypto projects comes with its own set of risks. If not appropriately researched, the moonshot projects and meme tokens pose significant threats. MoonRadar eradicates all these dangers as the enlistment of a project on this platform is done after proper care and intense analysis and is a token of trust and safety in itself. The platform also provides instant exposure to new projects and boosts their visibility. For investors, it furnishes key metrics of newly launched projects so that they can maximize their ROI by investing in service at an early stage and make informed decisions. Since it does not involve complicated steps of dredging out credible tokens and lists the best ones based on their key metrics, it allows speedy, hassle-free trading.

2021 will forever be remembered as the year meme coins entered the public consciousness. Dogecoin, the most popular meme coin, recently hit a new all-time high of $0.60 pushing its market cap north of $70 billion to become the fourth-most valued coin. This rapid increase in the price of Dogecoin was fueled by its community after celebrities like Elon Musk constantly posted a series of supportive tweets about it or Hello Pal International Inc., a publicly traded company acquired Dogecoin Miner "Crypto Pal".

MoonRadar envisions a safe DeX trade place where crypto players can enjoy quality blockchain projects and monitor audited contracts while running checks for scams and rug pulls. It has extended its support to some of the most popular recent meme coins and provided them with opportunities to incorporate the best security layers through proper analysis and auditing. These advancements have helped emerging projects in boosting their launch and marketing efficiently.

MoonRadar has also partnered with Superlauncher, an emerging launchpad aiming to raise 2000 BNB in the presale. The Token will be listed soon on Pancakeswap at an initial market cap of 1.085 million. This seems to be an attractive price for a token that powers projects like BabyDoge & Tiki token.

MoonRadar is targeting the current defects in the ways BNCs operate and is proposing innovative and robust solutions. It is a tool for creators and investors who encounter difficulties dredging out authentic platforms. The platform is also planning to expand its scope by conducting trial runs with BabyDoge for casino features this month. The update is anticipated to hit big in the crypto market and will go live shortly.

Media Contact Details:

Company Name: MoonRadar Finance

Website: https://MoonRadar.finance/

Email: [email protected]

Telegram: https://t.me/MoonRadar_finance

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MoonRadarfin

The Views expressed here are sourced from MoonRadar.Finance

SOURCE MoonRadar Finance
TEL-AVIV, Israel and GURUGRAM, India, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- IRP Systems, the leading provider of cutting-edge electric powertrain solutions for e-mobility, has signed today a strategic agreement with Sona Comstar, a leading global automotive component manufacturer, to jointly develop and commercialize magnet-less e-motors and controllers for the electric 2- and 3-wheeler platforms. Under the agreement, IRP will license its technology to Sona Comstar for manufacturing of the system exclusively in India, expecting to start mass production in 2023. IRP's one of its kind control technology, Sona Comstar's state-of-the-art manufacturing capabilities, and its global reach give rise to new possibilities in mass electric mobility.

Affordable and scalable e-powertrain solutions that can address the growing mass-market demand are in the epicenter of the electrification revolution. IRP's TrueDrive technology, implemented in magnet-less e-motors, will be a real game-changer, as it would enable overall system cost reduction without compromising on its performance.

"This is another step in IRP's mission to lead the automotive ecosystem with innovative and sustainable technology. Our technology ensures not only cleaner air but also a more environmental-friendly production process and responsible use of natural resources. We are excited to partner with a global, leading player such as Sona Comstar to bring the product to the mass market," said Moran Price, IRP Systems Co-founder, and CEO.

"We are excited with this partnership because it will help India reduce its dependence on imports of critical raw materials and is well-aligned with the Prime Minister's vision of an atmanirhar Bharat ('self-reliant India'). The system developed through this partnership will be an environmentally compatible and cost-effective solution that would ensure the security of natural resources by avoiding the use of rare earth elements," said Kiran Deshmukh, CTO of Sona Comstar.

The partnership was facilitated by iCreate (International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology), India's leading institution for transforming startups based on tech innovation into successful businesses.

About IRP Systems

IRP Systems provides high-performance electric powertrain systems for a variety of e-mobility platforms, enabling powerful and affordable electric vehicles. Leveraging its unique powertrain design and control algorithms, the company's breakthrough TrueDrive product portfolio reaches an unprecedented level of efficiency. IRP Systems is removing the last barriers of electric vehicle adoption by making electric mobility technology affordable for the mass market and accelerating its adoption worldwide.

About Sona-Comstar

Sona Comstar is an Indian origin, global automotive systems and components manufacturer with nine plants spread across India, China, Mexico, and the USA. The company is one of India's leading automotive technology companies, designing, manufacturing, and supplying highly engineered, mission-critical automotive systems and components such as differential assemblies, differential gears, conventional and micro-hybrid starter motors, BSG systems, EV traction motors (BLDC and PMSM) and motor control units to automotive OEMs across the US, Europe, India, and China, across all vehicle categories such as conventional passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, off-highway vehicles, electric cars, electric light commercial vehicles, and electric two & three-wheelers.

About iCreate

iCreate (International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology) is an autonomous centre of excellence of the Government of Gujarat, and is India's leading institution for transforming startups based on tech innovation into successful businesses. Located in a state-of-the-art 40-acre campus at Dev Dholera in Ahmedabad, till date, it has supported 389 innovations and 30 patents with a 'high-touch, entrepreneur-first' model, connecting them with mentors, markets and money. Embedded systems and IoT are a focus area for iCreate, in domains like Electric Vehicles, Renewable Energy, Agritech, Healthtech, Fintech, Watertech, among others. It is home to Cisco's largest Innovation Lab in India and has partnerships with leading institutions in the US, Israel, and other countries.

SOURCE IRP Systems
HOBOKEN, N.J., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- American Legion Post 107 and Hoboken Councilman Phil Cohen today announced that the Post's nonprofit Veterans Center of Hoboken has received a generous grant of $100,000 from the JBJ Soul Foundation, founded by Jon Bon Jovi, as the Post creates new housing and supportive services to provide homeless veterans with a place of their own.

"We know that even one homeless veteran living on the streets is one too many," said Commander John P. Carey of Post 107. "They are heroes who served our country and sacrificed, and now need a helping hand. We are grateful to the JBJ Soul Foundation for such a generous grant, which will help make the vision of an expanded Veterans Center a reality."

"JBJ Soul Foundation is dedicated to continuing our work with veterans, addressing issues of hunger and homelessness, and we are all inspired by the Veterans Center of Hoboken," said Jon Bon Jovi. "The Center is not only expanding with 18 additional furnished housing units, but is also providing services including physical and mental health care and employment opportunities for these struggling veterans. This is exactly the kind of mission and positive impact the Foundation is proud to support."

Hoboken Councilman Phil Cohen thanked the JBJ Soul Foundation for partnering with American Legion Post 107 on this extraordinary project, saying "I believe we have a moral duty to ensure the men and women who honorably served our country have a roof over their heads and receive the critical support services they deserve after all they have given our nation."

Beginning today, donations from individuals, civic groups, small businesses, and corporations will be matched dollar for dollar until the challenge grant is fulfilled. Gifts from $25 to $25,000 are eligible.

After its Hoboken headquarters was demolished by Superstorm Sandy in 2012, American Legion Post 107 rebuilt a flood-resistant facility that includes six units of affordable housing for homeless veterans. By adding 18 units, the Veterans Center will be poised to substantially, permanently reduce veteran homelessness in Hudson County. For more than a century the Post has been serving those who served their country.

Since 2006, the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation has partnered with organizations and communities to break the cycle of hunger, poverty, and homelessness through grant funding and the creation of sustainable programs and initiatives. The JBJ Soul Foundation has helped provide support for over 700 units of affordable and supportive housing in 11 states for thousands of people including youth and veterans. Its mission also includes serving warm, nutritious, culinary meals at its JBJ Soul Kitchens throughout New Jersey to address issues of food insecurity. The Kitchen uses a 'pay it forward' model asking diners to contribute either volunteer hours or a donation for their meals.

To Support the Veterans Center of Hoboken, visit Hobokenlegion.org/give or mail a check (made payable to Veterans Center of Hoboken) to 308 2nd Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030.

Contact:

John P. Carey, Commander, American Legion Post 107, President, Veterans Center of Hoboken, [email protected]

Heather Goldfarb, Executive Director, JBJ Soul Foundation, [email protected]

Phil Cohen, Hoboken Councilman, [email protected]

SOURCE JBJ Soul Foundation

Related Links

http://jbjsoulfoundation.org


Bari J. Ackerman is the creative force behind Bari J. Designs. She has made a name for herself with an expressive, painterly aesthetic that first became recognizable as fabric designs. Since then, she has expanded into the home decor space wholeheartedly collaborating on everything from rugs, and wallpaper, to wall art and textiles. Her signature style - modern florals bursting with color - brings a vibrant energy to this new Joybird furniture collection.

"I'm so excited to be part of a partnership with Joybird which has long been my favorite furniture company to work with! Seeing my designs on their frames is a dream come true, and I can't wait to see the furniture in homes," said Ackerman

"Joybird has always been known for its fun and bold colors. With the rise in florals and Bari J.'s signature designs, we were thrilled when the opportunity to partner with her presented itself. With this collection, we are applying prints that would usually be reserved for smaller decor items on larger frames, showcasing unexpected applications that are certain to be conversation starters. Joybird will be the exclusive furniture retailer with Bari J. upholstery." said Gifty Walker, Director of Merchandising & Sourcing at Joybird.

The collection will include two signature prints - Heron Jardin and Midnight Fleur. The Heron Jardin print showcases regal heron birds and pink rose blossoms and includes the Elsie Bench, Oliff Bed and Jolie Swivel Chair. Rich with color and whimsy, the Midnight Fleur fabric brings a show stopping floral pattern into your space; this collection includes the Orla Accent Chair, Kavi Ottoman and Preston Sofa.

Shop the collection starting July 15, 2021, www.joybird.com/collaborations/barij

Learn more at www.joybird.com and www.barijdesigns.com

About Joybird

Founded on the idea that people should never settle when it comes to home furnishings, Joybird is here to help customers bring their own personal style to their spaces with a mix of retro and modern designs and a plethora of customization options. With its digital, physical and virtual shopping experiences, Joybird is changing the way you buy furniture. Joybird prides itself on its ability to meet the demands and unique tastes of customers while providing a high-quality product that will be enjoyed for years to come. Always keeping sustainability top of mind, Joybird has created a business that not only gives back to nature, but helps it thrive through the use of responsibly-sourced materials and non-profit partnerships. For more information, please visit Joybird.com or a Joybird showroom near you.

About Bari J

BARI J. ACKERMAN is an artist, author, designer, home decor expert and founder of the floral-filled Bari J. lifestyle brand. Bari's popular product collections feature her celebrated signature floral style and are instantly recognizable on rugs, fabric, wallpapers, bedding and more. Bari's well received home decor book from Abrams Books, Bloom Wild, was published in Spring 2020 and can now be found in Japanese as well as English.

SOURCE Joybird

Related Links

https://joybird.com/


In 2018 and 2020, California enacted two lawsSB 826 and AB 979that require all publicly traded corporations headquartered in California to discriminate based on sex and race in selecting their board members.

The 2018 statute, SB 826, requires corporations headquartered in California to have specific numbers of women on their boards, depending on how many seats the board has. The 2020 statute, AB 979, similarly requires these companies to set aside a specific number of director seats for members of "underrepresented communit[ies]," which it defines as those who self-identify as "Black, African American, Hispanic, Latino, Asian, Pacific Islander, Native American, Native Hawaiian, [] Alaska Native, . . . gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender."

As noted in the complaint, both of these laws are an exercise in unconstitutional and patronizing social engineering. The legal regime they institute relies on and perpetuates invidious racial categories and sex stereotypes that the American legal system has rightly discarded. These statutes not do not claim to remedy any particular past discrimination. Rather, California says that mandating race and sex discrimination is justifies because it thinks imposing these quotas will be lucrative for California's corporations and shareholders and thus for the state.

If the Fourteenth Amendment and our foundational civil rights laws stand for anything, it is that money is no justification for race or sex discrimination.

The members of the Alliance for Fair Board Recruitment include biological males who do not self-identify as women or underrepresented minorities as defined in AB 979 and are actively seeking corporate director positions. Because of California's laws, they are unable to compete on an equal footing for positions on the boards of directors of corporations headquartered in California, in violation of the Fourteenth Amendment and 42 U.S.C.  1981. Other members of the Alliance are stockholders in publicly traded companies headquartered in California who object to being required to illegally discriminate on the basis of race and sex in nominating and selecting board candidates.

Edward Blum, president of the Alliance for Fair Board Recruitment, said, "California's sex and race quotas for corporate board membership are indisputably violations of our nation's civil rights laws and the U.S. Constitution. It is our hope the courts end these unfair and unlawful practices immediately."

Alliance for Fair Board Recruitment

FairRecruitment.org

703-505-1922

[email protected]

Contact: Edward Blum, President

[email protected]

(703) 505-1922

SOURCE Alliance for Fair Board Recruitment
CHICAGO, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital Twin market leader Cityzenith has attracted major investment just a few days after its public launch on Wefunder through its $5m Regulation CF investment launch.

The Chicago-based company has won $868,050 in investments since launching on crowdfunding site Wefunder last week, as more investors back the company's 'Clean Cities  Clean Future' mission to decarbonize US urban areas.

Wefunder provides a crowdfunding platform for investors to support private companies, giving investors more opportunities to build a portfolio of high growth technology company investments. Cityzenith's progress on Wefunder

Cityzenith CEO and Founder Michael Jansen has nothing but praise for the Wefunder investment community, which he sees as a great source for private market investing:

"Wefunder provided Cityzenith with access to over 1 million potential investors we previously couldn't access, and in a very short space of time helped the company get off to a great start towards our investment goals."

This new flood of investment follows over $11m in investment since Cityzenith was founded, raising close to $4m since the beginning of the year and adding 5,000 new investors, underlining a record of success by Jansen, who delivered a 17x return to early investors on his last venture with Sequoia Capital.

Cityzenith's AI Digital Twin platform software SmartWorldOS can create virtual replicas of cities and infrastructure to track, manage and drastically reduce carbon emissions within the built environment while minimizing environmental damage, and can produce savings and efficiencies worth 35% of operating and maintenance costs for buildings and carbon emissions by up to 100%.

Jansen went on to say: "Cities worldwide account for around 70% of global carbon emissions and consume over two-thirds of the world's energy, despite covering only 2% of the world's surface. Digital Twin innovations such as SmartWorldOS can provide the essential interconnectivity required to reduce these emissions radically.

"Handling massive data streams harnessed to cutting-edge AI, we have delivered custom climate resilience applications to greenfield cities, real estate developments, and infrastructure projects. We know the issues and can help solve them for those who design, build, and manage cities, demonstrating major financial benefits to the built environment."

Cityzenith is part of an exponentially growing market. Markets & Markets estimates that the Digital Twin sector will grow from $3.1 billion in 2020 to $48.2 billion per year by 2026, at an annual CAGR of 58%.

The company has added over $4.6m in new contracts this year and $11m to its commercial sales pipeline. Cityzenith's 'Clean Cities  Clean Future' international campaign has created significant traction with major polluting cities worldwide, leading to the company being recently named in the World Economic Forum's top 100 global innovators program for 2021 to 2023.

The Digital Twin tech sector has also been recently named one of the top five tech growth sectors expected to quadruple in five years, while Cityzenith is highlighted as a Digital Twin market leader alongside Siemens, Microsoft, and Bentley.

If you would like to hear more from Cityzenith CEO Michael Jansen, please sign up to a FREE webinar, 'Investing in an AI Technology Platform For Sustainable Cities,' taking place virtually on Tuesday, 20 July and 24 August at 13:00 CT. To learn more about using emerging tech to combat Climate Change, please sign up here

SOURCE Cityzenith
WASHINGTON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the U.S. Department of Energy announced the launch of a new online permitting platform to accelerate the approval of solar projects while maintaining the integrity of the permitting process. SolarAPP+ was developed and built by the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in consultation with a broad range of experts from businesses, trade groups, local governments, researchers, and code and safety organizations. It will cut the time and expense of going solar in the U.S., where the cost of installation is 2-3 times greater than in countries like Germany, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

With today's announcement, SolarAPP+ is now being made available as a solution to cities across the country to help jurisdictions process solar installations more efficiently and with a standardized high level of quality and safety. This efficiency gain and cost reduction is seen as critical for American energy consumers to achieve the rapid growth in solar adoption targeted by the administration.

Solar customers will save money. Solar installers will have more clarity about the process, get more projects done and contribute more to local economies. Local officials will be able to rely on quality assurance processes built into the online application tool with input from code and safety experts at organizations like Underwriters Laboratories (UL), the International Code Council (ICC) and the National Fire Protection Association. (NFPA).



It is now time to support rapid adoption of SolarAPP+ by cities across the country. To support this goal, a group of solar companies, state solar energy associations, clean energy advocates, and environmental organizations has launched The SolarAPP+ Campaign to raise awareness about SolarAPP+ and promote its adoption. The project is motivated by national data showing that local governments with instant online permitting for rooftop solar process 5-14x more volume than jurisdictions with traditional permit processing. The SolarAPP+ Campaign is supporting state solar associations' advocacy with a goal of getting over 100 jurisdictions to adopt the new tool by next summer.

"By adopting SolarAPP+, cities can ramp up more solar in their communities, while improving the quality and safety of their permitting process. It will lead to more happy solar customers, less pollution, more jobs, and more local economic benefits," said Andrew Birch and Anne Hoskins, Co-Chairs of the SolarAPP+ Campaign. "We're excited to work with local officials and other stakeholders to advance the benefits of this new tool."



For more information on the campaign and its partners, go to SolarAPPCampaign.org

Info for state and local officials- SolarAPP+ for Jurisdictions

Info for installers - SolarAPP+ - Installers

SOURCE SolarAPP Campaign

Related Links

http://newsroom.sunpower.com


MONTREAL, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Mackagethe luxury outerwear specialisthas appointed New York City fashion veteran Tanya Golesic as Chief Executive Officer.

Golesica Canadian who has lived and worked in New York for over twenty yearsbrings a rare depth of global high fashion experience to Mackage, underscoring the company's commitment to worldwide growth in the luxury space.

Tanya Golesic headshot. (CNW Group/Mackage)

"Tanya's results-driven approach will build brand desirability through innovative digital marketing, focused product assortments and international expansion in key markets. All will serve to accelerate the brand's current trajectory," says Patrick Elfassy, Mackage's Executive Chairman.

Golesic joins Mackage from Jimmy Choo, where she served as President of the Americas for five years. While there, she focused on generating brand heat with various high-visibility collaborationsincluding Jimmy Choo x Off-White and Jimmy Choo x Timberland. Golesic was also a member of the executive team in Jimmy Choo's sale to Capri Holdings, the multi-brand parent company founded by Michael Kors.

Additionally, she formerly served as the Global Chief Commercial Officer at Canada Goose. While there, she helped to recontextualize Canada Goose with product placements and partnerships at luxury fashion brands, including Marc Jacobs, among others. Golesic has also held leadership roles at Marc Jacobs International (LVMH), The Jones Group and Ralph Lauren.

"Mackage has the capability to innovate at the highest levels in terms of fabrications, materials and sustainability, with the distribution and brand recognition to scale significantly," says Golesic. "The company's superior craftsmanship and creativity is the DNA that allows us to authentically hone our global luxury positioning and build out our incredible aspirational narrative."

About Mackage:

Founded by Eran Elfassy in 1999, Mackage specializes in creating luxury outerwear with a careful calibration of elevated aesthetics and high performance functionality. Elfassy launched the company after being inspired by his brothers' experience in the leather industry; two years later, Elisa Dahan joined, and together, they've evolved Mackage into what it is today. The company also retains a focus on best practices when it comes to sustainability and ethics; future initiatives will soon be rolled out. Mackage is sold in over 40 countries worldwide, as well as through its own e-commerce platform at www.mackage.com.

SOURCE Mackage

Related Links

www.mackage.com


PITTSBURGH, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Federated Hermes, Inc. today announced that monthly fund composition and performance data for Federated Hermes Premier Municipal Income Fund (NYSE: FMN) as of June 30, 2021, is now available in the Products section of FederatedInvestors.com. To order hard copies of this data or to be placed on a mailing list, call 800-245-0242 x5587538, email [email protected] or write to Federated Hermes, 1001 Liberty Avenue, Floor 23, Pittsburgh, PA 15222.

Federated Hermes, Inc. is a leading global investment manager with $625.0 billion in assets under management as of March 31, 2021. Guided by our conviction that responsible investing is the best way to create wealth over the long term, our investment solutions span equity, fixed-income, alternative/private markets, multi-asset and liquidity management strategies. Providing world-class active investment management and engagement services to more than 11,000 institutions and intermediaries, our clients include corporations, government entities, insurance companies, foundations and endowments, banks and broker/ dealers. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, Federated Hermes' nearly 2,000 employees include those in London, New York, Boston and offices worldwide. For more information, visit FederatedHermes.com.

###

SOURCE Federated Hermes, Inc.

Related Links

http://FederatedInvestors.com


This agreement will establish the creation and launch, in New York City, of a customized course that will serve to complement the courses offered by SKEMA's Global Luxury and Management (GLAM) programan MSc accredited by the French Conference des Grandes Ecoles. The program, which is open to students holding a bachelor's degree or higher, affords a one-year and a two-year track, with a limited cohort of 50 students. Four courses will be offered by NYU SPS starting by NYU SPS/SKEMA Business School 2021 'Luxury Business Ethics'.

Students will spend their first semester in the United States on SKEMA's American campus (Raleigh, NC) as well as on the NYU SPS campus, and will continue their second semester on the new 'Grand Paris Campus' (France) Flagship which opened early 2021.

Living present luxury and thinking its future

In addition to the courses given at NYU SPS, the program includes a study tour of New York City, including visits to major luxury companies such as Tiffany & Co.

According to Anthony Ledru, President & CEO of Tiffany & Co, a 1995 SKEMA alumnus and member of the GLAM program board: 'The United States are one of the leading luxury markets. To be able to understand it from inside with its actors on the field is an undeniable added value for a young graduate who ambitions to start a career in this sector.'

In addition, the GLAM MSc allows students to understand the diversified world of luxury - Paris, New York, Champagne, Cannes or Monaco - through a wide range of sectors: fashion, hotels, travel, automotive, yachting, services... The program also addresses the new challenges of luxury  CSR & sustainability, digitalization and client centric processes - and ends with the completion of a master thesis and an internship of at least 4 months.

According to Patrice Houdayer, Vice Dean in charge of programs, international and student life: 'The development of strategic agreements is one of the pillars of our SKY25 strategic plan (SKEMA Years 2020-2025). The choice of NYU SPS, already recognized for its expertise in the luxury sector, illustrates this perfectly and allows our students to access to one of the best universities in the field.'

The cost of the program is 25,000 for 1 year or 35,000 for the 2-year MSc format.

PS: The program is also accessible at no extra cost to students from SKEMA's Grande Ecole Program/Master in Management.

Contact: Christine Cassabois, [email protected]

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SOURCE SKEMA Business School
BUFFALO, N.Y., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- M&T Bank (NYSE: MTB) announced today that for the third year in a row it has been recognized as one of the Best Places to Work for Disability Inclusion in the 2021 Disability Equality Index (DEI).

The DEI was developed by the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) and Disability: IN, in consultation with disability advocates and business leaders as a comprehensive benchmarking tool for disability inclusion. The Index measures key performance indicators including culture and leadership; enterprise-wide access; employment practices; community engagement; supplier diversity; and non-U.S. operations.

"We are proud to be a place where people with disabilities are welcome, included and have an environment where they can succeed," said Tracy Woodrow, M&T's chief human resources officer. "M&T remains committed to building a diverse and inclusive team focused on delivering the best for our customers and communities."

As part of this commitment to building an inclusive and diverse team, M&T partners with The Precisionists, Inc. (TPI), a Delaware-based organization focused on employment for adults with disabilities nationwide. Through this partnership, M&T works with adults with autism to tackle critical business needs within M&T's Banking Services/Systems Administration, Data Solutions Reporting and IPDS departments.

"At M&T, we understand that the only way to provide a best-in-class customer experience is through a best-in-class employee experience," said Glenn Jackson, M&T's chief diversity officer. "When employees are empowered to be their best selves, we can make a difference in people's lives throughout all of the many diverse communities we serve."

As part of M&T Bank's employee engagement efforts, the company also operates more than 70 employee resource groups in communities across its footprint. These groups play an important role in making the company a better workplace.

Recently, M&T's Disability Advocacy Network (DAN) Resource Group guided the implementation and launch of M&T's collaboration with Magnusmode , a free app dedicated to making the world a more accessible place for people with cognitive and intellectual disabilities. The collaboration created new digital guides that provide visual cues and step-by-step instructions to help people access fundamental banking services at M&T.

Earlier this year, M&T Bank also released its inaugural Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) report reflecting the bank's commitment to operating with integrity, candor, collaboration, ownership, and curiosity to contribute to a better future for the communities it serves.

About the Disability Equality Index

The Disability Equality Index (DEI) is a comprehensive benchmarking tool that helps companies build a roadmap of measurable, tangible actions that they can take to achieve disability inclusion and equality. Each company receives a score, on a scale of zero (0) to 100, with those earning 80 and above recognized as a "Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion".

The DEI is a joint initiative of the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), the nation's largest disability rights organization, and Disability:IN, the global business disability inclusion network, to collectively advance the inclusion of people with disabilities. The organizations are complementary and bring unique strengths that make the project relevant and credible to corporations and the disability community. The tool was developed by the DEI Advisory Committee, a diverse group of business leaders, policy experts, and disability advocates. Learn more at: www.DisabilityEqualityIndex.org.

About M&T Bank

M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE: MTB) is a financial holding company headquartered in Buffalo, New York. M&T's principal banking subsidiary, M&T Bank, operates banking offices in New York, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Connecticut, Virginia, West Virginia and the District of Columbia. Trust-related services are provided by M&T's Wilmington Trust-affiliated companies and by M&T Bank.

Equal Housing Lender.  2021 M&T Bank. Member FDIC. All Rights Reserved.

Media Contacts:

Upstate New York

Julia Berchou

716-842-5385

[email protected]

New Jersey, Connecticut, New York City and Long Island

David Samberg

201-368-4515

[email protected]

Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Washington, DC

Scott Graham

410-244-4097

[email protected]

SOURCE M&T Bank

Related Links

http://www.mtb.com


SHANGHAI, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- As more people around the world embrace alternative modes of transportation, Yadea, a leading brand in the electric two-wheeler industry, has unveiled a slew of exciting updates to its product range. The announcements were made at a recent press conference held on July 8 in Shanghai, China.

With slick new designs, robust power and energy systems, and innovative intelligence systems, Yadea's latest upgrades promise to elevate and transform the global layout of the industry. These announcements put Yadea well on track to usher in a new generation of electric scooters, and further realize the brand's "Electrify Your Life" vision.

"Since our inception, Yadea has always been an e-mobility pioneer. From our extensive investment into R&D to our focus on product quality and design, we are truly committed to carving out a sustainable future with products that bring happiness, comfort and safety to drivers. We are thrilled to take the next step towards the Era of Green with these revolutionary advancements in our electric scooter range," said Aska Zeng, general manager of Yadea.

Recognizing aesthetic appeal as an integral part of the overall driving experience, Yadea has consistently strived for excellence in design. During the press conference, the company officially revealed a new partnership with Studio F.A. Porsche  setting a new precedent for the electric vehicle industry to collaborate with the world's top industrial design companies.

"With Studio F.A. Porsche and Yadea coming together, it's not just a design job. It's two companies coming together, sharing the same values and passion for design, and trying to take the next step forward. We are proud to partner with Yadea to shape the future of electric scooters," said Roland Heiler, managing director of Studio F.A. Porsche.

At the event, Yadea also revealed its new self-developed mid-mounted motor equipped with a TTFAR carbon fiber lithium battery. A new urban energy ecosystem designed to make riding electric scooters even more convenient was showcased as well. With rapid fast-charging stations and a power swap station built in partnership with Gogoro, drivers can recharge their batteries on the go and go further with every ride.

Beyond power and design, Yadea has unveiled new intelligent systems designed for a smarter, safer and more convenient driving experience. Leveraging its exclusive LTM tripartite Bluetooth technology, Yadea has connected the smartphone with the electric scooter system and helmet to realize the industry's first mobile "personal space". Supplemented with a large vehicle screen and a full-scenario intelligent voice assistant powered by AI, Yadea's new intelligent system minimizes riding noise while ensuring the utmost safety and convenience for drivers. Multiple smart unlock methods adopted by Yadea on the vehicles were introduced, including unlocking through NFC card swipe, app, Bluetooth, voice and fingerprint

With its new developments and relentless pursuit of innovation, Yadea continues to be a pioneer in the electric mobility industry. By bringing a holistic approach to exploration in all facets from design to power and intelligence, Yadea continues to carve new roads forward as it continues fulfilling its "electrify your life" vision.

About Yadea

Yadea is a global leader in developing and manufacturing electric two-wheel vehicles including electric motorcycles, electric mopeds, electric bicycles and electric kick scooters. Yadea's mission is to use its market leadership to inspire a movement towards greener travel solutions and its vision is to create world-leading electric vehicle solutions by building innovative technologies that meet and exceed international standards for safety and quality.

For more information, visit our:

Official Website: https://www.yadea.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Yadea.Official

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/YADEA.GLOBAL/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/YadeaGlobal

SOURCE Yadea
"That we welcomed in June three times the number of passengers as June last year is a testament to the demand for air service at Ontario International and the loyalty of our growing customer base," said Alan Wapner, president of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) Board of Commissioners. "We expect the resurgence of air travel to continue as airlines quickly add seats at Ontario and passengers fill them at an equally brisk pace."

According to data compiled by the OIAA, more than 431,000 airline passengers traveled through ONT last month, which was 90.25% of ONT's passenger volume in June 2019. Domestic travelers totaled more than 419,000, while 11,600 were international passengers.

From January through June, ONT welcomed more than 1.6 million passengers, 23% more than the same period a year ago. The year-to-date 2021 figure is 64% of the nearly 2.6 million who flew into and out of ONT during the first half of 2019.

"We continue to be enthusiastic about the pace of recovery at Ontario International and we are equally optimistic about volumes over the summer as air travelers rediscover the many advantages of arriving and departing our airport." said Mark Thorpe, OIAA chief executive officer. "ONT continues to set the pace for recovery among California airports in rebounding from the severe downturn in air travel following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic."

Ontario officials anticipate more than 1.4 million passengers during the summer travel period, from the beginning of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

Passenger Totals June 2021 June 2020 Change YTD 2021 YTD 2020 Change Domestic 419,434 140,328 198.90% 1,622,762 1,283,750 26.4% International 11,651 1,701 584.95% 37,688 65,761 -42.7% Total 431,085 142,029 203.52% 1,660,450 1,349,511 23.0%

Passenger Totals June 2021 June 2019 Change YTD 2021 YTD 2019 Change Domestic 419,434 451,211 -7.04% 1,622,762 2,445,924 -33.7% International 11,651 26,470 -55.98% 37,688 148,438 -74.6% Total 431,085 477,681 -9.75% 1,660,450 2,594,362 -36.0%

Air freight shipments, meanwhile, declined 13% in June compared with the same month last year. Compared to June 2019, however, freight tonnage rose 13.7% last month.

"The decline in commercial freight year over year was not unexpected given the magnitude of personal protective equipment shipments in the early months of the pandemic and as households began to rely less on e-commerce for supplies," Thorpe said. "We are confident that Ontario International's modernized facilities and efficient operations will nonetheless remain highly attractive to shippers serving Southern California."

Air cargo (tonnage) June 2021 June 2020 Change YTD 2021 YTD 2020 Change Freight 69,582 79,987 -13.01% 412,849 423,475 -2.5% Mail 3,843 1,971 95.01% 22,182 9,489 133.8% Total 73,426 81,958 -10.41% 435,030 432,964 0.5%

Air cargo (tonnage) June 2021 June 2019 Change YTD 2021 YTD 2019 Change Freight 69,582 61,163 13.77% 412,849 351,068 17.6% Mail 3,843 1,775 116.54% 22,182 13,582 63.3% Total 73,426 62,938 16.66% 435,030 364,651 19.3%

About Ontario International Airport

Ontario International Airport (ONT) is the fastest growing airport in the United States, according to Global Traveler, a leading publication for frequent fliers. Located in the Inland Empire, ONT is approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles in the center of Southern California. It is a full-service airport which, before the coronavirus pandemic, offered nonstop commercial jet service to 26 major airports in the U.S., Mexico and Taiwan. More information is available at www.flyOntario.com. Follow @flyONT on Facebook, Twitter, andInstagram.

About the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA)

The OIAA was formed in August 2012 by a Joint Powers Agreement between the City of Ontario and the County of San Bernardino to provide overall direction for the management, operations, development and marketing of ONT for the benefit of the Southern California economy and the residents of the airport's four-county catchment area. OIAA Commissioners are Ontario Mayor Pro Tem Alan D. Wapner (President), Retired Riverside Mayor Ronald O. Loveridge (Vice President), Ontario City Council Member Jim W. Bowman (Secretary), San Bernardino County Supervisor Curt Hagman (Commissioner) and retired business executive Julia Gouw (Commissioner).

OIAA Media Contact:

Steve Lambert, (909) 841-7527 [email protected]

SOURCE Ontario International Airport

Related Links

https://www.flyontario.com


Simply put, the PlateSmart AI-driven software and analytics are unlike any other in the industry. Tweet this

"PlateSmart's flexibility, which allowed us to work together and customize the solution to suit the needs of our Caribbean clients, made them a natural fit for us," said Kayon Gibson, Vice President, Sales and Business Development, AV COM Jamaica. "Their ALPR solution is scalable, robust, and easy to integrate with the IP video surveillance infrastructure we sell and support."

PlateSmart CEO John Chigos said the company's solution has been well-received by law enforcement customers. "The software's analytics and accuracy has surpassed all expectations and has helped law enforcement apprehend criminals faster than before."

As an enterprise-grade solution, PlateSmart ARES 3.0 software has virtually no upper limit to the number of cameras it can read. This makes it ideal for even the largest surveillance applications. In the Caribbean, it can even be configured to monitor feeds among islands, which is ideal for nations and dependencies that are part of an island group or archipelago.

Even better, PlateSmart ARES 3.0 returns search results within seconds, no matter how many cameras it is monitoring. In the aftermath of a crime, those seconds make it possible for police to apprehend suspects before they can make their getaway.

PlateSmart CEO John Chigos said that the advanced analytics PlateSmart ARES offers can help law enforcement prevent crime in the first place.

"Many solutions help police investigate crimes after the fact," he said. "PlateSmart can also help stop crime by giving law enforcement the intelligence they need to see if a crime is being planned. This includes vehicle behavior like 'casing' a location in advance of a crime or attack. Our software's ability to examine vehicle behavior means keeping more people safe and putting more criminals out of business.

"Simply put, the PlateSmart AI-driven software and analytics are unlike any other in the industry. It is proactive and predictive. And as has always been our philosophy, the customer owns all their data. They determine who accesses it as well as where and for how long it is retained. We never touch it."

For more information or to schedule a demo, visit www.platesmart.com.

About PlateSmart

In 2004, Cyclops Technologies, under the PlateSmart Technologies brand, introduced the first software-only, camera-agnostic automatic license plate recognition (ALPR) engine powered by early AI-based object recognition technology and compatible with video management systems (VMS). Today, the brand's solutions have evolved into stand-alone vehicle recognition tools as well as those designed to integrate with almost any third-party software and hardware. They serve diverse applications, from law enforcement to wide-area surveillance to customer service enhancement, across a variety of markets in the U.S. and around the world.

The cutting-edge PlateSmart ARES 3.0 enterprise solution is designed for use with a virtually unlimited number of cameras. It can search those cameras within seconds across a number of vehicle attribute, location, and date/time parameters for up-to-the-moment actionable intelligence and complete situational awareness. ARES Analytics provides deep intelligence about a vehicle's travel behavior as well as mass traffic patterns, with a full suite of data visualizations and the ability to export data for additional analysis.

PlateSmart solutions have received multiple industry awards for excellence in security technology. Learn more at www.platesmart.com

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS: This press release may contain forward-looking statements and/or predictions. These statements are based on history, current knowledge, and current market conditions. They are subject to change without notice as conditions and knowledge change; therefore, undue reliance should not be placed on such statements.

Media Contacts

Kathleen Chigos | [email protected] | 813-749-0892

SOURCE PlateSmart Technologies

Related Links

www.platesmart.com


VANCOUVER, BC, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Residents and visitors of the City of San Mateo will now have a better parking experience thanks to PayByPhone. The leading global provider of mobile parking payment solutions, is expanding to over 2,800 on-street parking spaces across this Californian city.

"We're excited to be expanding our contactless parking services across the west coast," said Roamy Valera, CEO of PayByPhone. "As the City of San Mateo will be joining a number of our Californian communities, including San Francisco, Sacramento, San Jose, Fresno and San Diego.

PayByPhone is a hassle-free solution for over 43 million registered drivers, allowing them to pay for parking with just their smartphone. The app sends text messages automatically when a parking session expires, and gives drivers the ability to extend their parking session without needing to return to their vehicle. Drivers can also begin a session without registering for an account, making it ideal for those who are pressed for time.

For more information, visit paybyphone.com

About PayByPhone

PayByPhone is one of the fastest growing mobile payment companies in the world, processing over 135 million transactions annually, totaling more than $550 million USD in payments. Through the company's mobile web, smartphone and smartwatch applications, PayByPhone helps millions of consumers easily and securely pay for parking without the hassles of waiting in line, having to carry change or risking costly fines. A subsidiary of Volkswagen Financial Services AG, PayByPhone is leading the way in the creation of the mobile future.

SOURCE PayByPhone Technologies Inc.

Related Links

paybyphone.com


BANGALORE, India

, July 14, 2021 /PRNewswire/ --The Silicon Wafer Market is Segmented by Type (300 mm, 200 mm,  150 mm, Other(450 mm)), by Application (Memory, Logic or MPU, Analog, Discrete Device and Sensor, Others). The report covers global opportunity analysis and industry forecasts from 2021 to 2026. It is published in Valuates Reports under Electronics & Electrical Category.

The Silicon Wafer market size was valued at USD 11150 Million in 2019 and it is expected to reach USD 14390 Million by the end of 2026, growing at a CAGR of 4.2% during the forecast period 2021-2026.

Silicon wafers are an important component of integrated circuits, which power computers, cell phones, and a variety of other devices.

Major factors driving the growth of the silicon wafer market are:

Increasing use of integrated circuits in various devices like computers, smartphones, gaming devices, and military weapons

Silicon wafer market expansion will be fuelled by technological advances that improve wafer capabilities.

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TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF THE SILICON WAFER MARKET

The need for high-performance electronic gadgets is expected to drive the growth of the Silicon Wafer Market. The expansion in the number of businesses and rising living standards have resulted in increased demand for smartphones, computers, and other electronic devices. Silicon wafers are used to make semiconductors, which are the building blocks of contemporary electrical gadgets. These wafers are very clean and impurity-free, making them the ideal substrate for contemporary semiconductors. They are utilized to make microchips and chips, as well as ICs, which are employed in a variety of electronic products.

Silicon wafer market expansion will be fuelled by technological advances that improve wafer capabilities. Automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are utilized to improve operational efficiency across all industry sectors. Companies are turning to silicon wafers to create AI-infused solutions, which is the next trend. To tackle deep learning tasks, silicon chips are designed with parts that function like neurons. The expansion of the silicon wafer market will be aided by the trend of shrinking of electronics, as well as improvements in the Internet of Things. Silicon chips that support high-end digital innovations will help to expand the industry.

The expansion of the silicon wafer market would be aided by the increasing adoption of automation in the automobile industry. The industry's R&D will be aided by the demand for vehicle electrification and improved connectivity. The development of technology like Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) will also help the sector grow even faster.

However, the silicon wafer market's growth would be hampered by the high initial investments required to manufacture these wafers.

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SILICON WAFER MARKET SHARE ANALYSIS

Based on type, the wafer sizes larger than or equal to 300 mm are expected to be the most lucrative.

A large wafer diameter allows more semiconductor devices to be produced from a single wafer, increasing efficiency, and productivity. The growth of these wafers from half-inch silicon to 300 mm diameter wafers has been driven by the growing demand for chips and the increased chip throughput offered by huge wafer diameters.

Based on application, the Memory segment is expected to drive the growth of the silicon wafer market.

Memory makers are being forced to move to higher NAND and DRAM densities due to escalating wafer costs and severe supply restrictions. The silicon wafer market will rise as the demand for high-memory applications grows. Mobile internet gadgets, gaming gadgets, digital music players, and PCs all use memory and logic devices such as SDRAM, DRAM, GPU, CPU, and flash memory.

Based on region, China has the highest share of income, reaching 31.58 percent in 2019.

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Major Key Players in the Silicon Wafer Market

Shin Etsu

Sumco

Siltronic

SK siltron

Global Wafers

Wafer Works Corporation

Ferrotec

Shanghai Advanced Silicon Technology Co., Ltd(AST)

Gritek

Guosheng Electronic

QL Electronics

MCL

National Silicon Industry Group

On-Semi Czech

Hebei Poshing Electronics Technology Co.,Ltd

Tianjin Zhonghuan Semiconductor Co., Ltd

ESWIN

Formosa Sumco Technology Corporation

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SIMILAR REPORTS

- The global Semiconductor Wafer market size is projected to reach USD 19930 Million by 2026, from USD 17140 Million in 2019, at a CAGR of 2.2% during the forecast period 2021-2026.

- The Silicon Carbide Wafer market size was valued at USD 301.1 million in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 564.1 Million by 2027, at a CAGR of 9.4% during the 2021-2027. In this study, 2020 has been considered as the base year and 2021 to 2027 as the forecast period to estimate the market size for Silicon Carbide Wafer.

- The global Silicon Reclaim Wafers market size is projected to reach USD 1076.3 Million by 2027, from USD 480.1 Million in 2020, at a CAGR of 14.4% during 2021-2027.

- Silicon EPI Wafer Market Size, Share, Trends, Growth, Industry Analysis, Forecast 2021 to 2026. The Report contains segmentation By Type (300 mm, 200 mm, Below 150 mm, Others), By Application (Memory, Logic/MPU, Others)

- Semiconductor Silicon Wafer Market Size, Share, Trends, Growth, Industry Analysis, Forecast 2021 to 2026.

- Solar Silicon Wafer Market Size, Share, Trends, Growth, Industry Analysis, Forecast 2021 to 2026. The Report contains segmentation By Type (Single Crystal Silicon Wafer, Polycrystalline Silicon Wafer), By Application (Commercial Use, Industrial Use)

- The global Semiconductor Materials market size is projected to reach USD 52410 Million by 2026, from USD 40420 Million in 2019, at a CAGR of 3.3% during 2021-2026. APAC accounted for roughly 63 percent of the market, with Taiwan being the most profitable country.

- The global Semiconductor Manufacturing Equipment market size is projected to reach USD 53200 Million by 2027, from USD 39510 Million in 2020, at a CAGR of 3.9% during the forecast period 2021-2027. Growing consumer electronics demand is expected to drive the growth of the Semiconductor manufacturing market size. Consumer electronics is one of the most important industries that rely solely on the semiconductor industry. Changing chip sizes and innovative architectures in various electronic devices have boosted semiconductor demand, which has benefited semiconductor equipment manufacturers.

- The global Advanced Semiconductor Packaging market size is projected to reach USD 24180 million by 2027, from USD 15670 million in 2020, at a CAGR of 7.5% during 2022-2027. Top 5 manufacturers accounted for 43.06% market share in 2019.

- The global Wafer Cleaning Equipment market is valued at 5367.2 million USD in 2020 is expected to reach 9399.4 million USD by the end of 2026, growing at a CAGR of 8.2% during 2021-2026.

- The global Semiconductor Inspection Equipment market was valued at USD 7305.99 million in 2020 and it is expected to reach USD 11350.82 million by the end of 2027, growing at a CAGR of 5.98% during 2021-2027.

To see the full list of related reports on the Silicon Wafer

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DENVER, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Sola Salon Studios, the world's largest and fastest growing salon studios franchise, announced today that at the close of the second quarter, it has opened 21 new locations and signed 15 franchise agreements to develop 60 new locations throughout the U.S. and Canada by the end of the year.

The brand continued to grow its presence across North America in the first half of 2021, as it recently signed a multi-unit agreement for the Boston area and another in West Virginia. Projected openings slated in the next few months include locations in California, Washington, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Nebraska, Illinois and Michigan. This growth comes on the heels of a successful 2020 despite the pandemic, where Sola saw a +15 percent increase in stylist lead volume and reported that occupancy is at an all-time high.

"We're projected to have 15 new signed agreements and eclipse 600 locations by the end of the year, as we continue to attract entrepreneurs who share our vision for reimagining salon life and providing a space for independent professionals to grow in their trade," said Christina Russell, CEO of Sola Salon Studios. "With three new franchisees already added to our system in the first half of the year, our system is poised for great expansion throughout Q3 and Q4 as these new owners continue to bring their energy and passion to our brand. We're impressed with the gains we've made in the first half of the year and celebrate the successes of our owners and Sola professionals, and we look forward to the opportunities that the second half of the year holds."

The company was recently recognized with numerous industry awards, including a placement on the Franchise Gator Top 100 2021 list. Additionally, the #SolaStrong campaign, created in order to support beauty professionals struggling during the closures of the pandemic, was awarded the Best Digital Campaign honor in Franchise Update Media's Innovation Awards Marketing & Branding category. This annual award identifies and recognizes franchise brands that have created and implemented the most original and successful innovation strategies and tactics.

Recognized as the world's largest and fastest growing salon studios franchise, Sola Salon Studios supports a growing community of more than 17,000 independent beauty professionals across the 570+ locations by providing a turnkey solution for beauty professionals to explore a better life as an entrepreneur. The model continues to grow increasingly in popularity, especially amid the pandemic as beauty pros sought to go independent to offer their clientele more control over their salon experience, with more than 7,000 new stylists joining Sola in 2020 alone.

As part of its continued growth strategy, Sola Salon Studios will be targeting a number of markets across North America. Opportunities remain in the Hawaii, Alaska, Salt Lake City, Albuquerque, El Paso, Ft. Wayne, Albany, Memphis, Vancouver, BC, and Toronto, ON markets.

To learn more about Sola Salon Studios and available territories, visit www.solasalonstudios.com. Follow Sola Salon Studios on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for the latest news and trends.

ABOUT SOLA SALON STUDIOS

In 2004, Sola Salon Studios was established with the opening of its first location in Denver, Colorado. Now with more than 570 locations open in the U.S., Canada and Brazil, Sola is proud to offer 17,000+ independent beauty professionals the freedom and benefits of salon ownership without the risk and overhead of opening a traditional salon. Its innovative salon model empowers hairdressers, estheticians, nail techs, massage therapists and other like-minded professionals to take control of their lives and their careers. Sola provides beauty professionals with beautiful, fully-equipped salon studios alongside the support and tools they need to launch their salon business in no time. For more information, please visit www.solasalonstudios.com.

Contact:

Lucy Kaneb

Fish Consulting

954-893-9150

[email protected]

SOURCE Sola Salon Studios

Related Links

http://www.solasalonstudios.com


LOS ANGELES and BOSTON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Staley Point Capital ("Staley Point"), a value-add investor focused on industrial properties in Southern California, and Bain Capital Real Estate , the real estate investing business of Bain Capital, today announced the acquisition of 11804 Wakeman Street, a 55,000 square-foot industrial infill property in Santa Fe Springs, California, for $12.8 million. The transaction, which represents a purchase price of $233 per square-foot, is the joint venture's third investment in the local Santa Fe Springs area.

The property, which was formerly owned and occupied by Astro Paper, a family-owned distributor of fine papers and envelopes, underwent a comprehensive renovation earlier this year. Refurbishments included a new roof, 3,500 square feet of renovated office, and professional landscaping. The property also offers four dock-high positions, 23'-27' clear height, five grade-level doors, and 24,000 square-feet of secured yard space for vehicle and product storage.

"We are pleased to complete this purchase, which furthers our presence in one of the largest submarkets in Los Angeles County," said Eric Staley, Managing Director of Staley Point. "We are excited about the prospects of this asset given the recent renovation, secure yard and limited market vacancy."

Vacancy in the Santa Fe Springs submarket is only 0.6% due to the growing appeal of the supply-constrained Mid-Counties market for industrial tenants. 11804 Wakeman Street has direct access to the rest of Los Angeles County via the I-5 and I-605 freeways and is close to major logistics centers including Long Beach Airport (8 miles), Los Angeles International Airport - LAX (25 miles), as well as the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach (20 miles). These ports, when combined, rank ninth in the top-ten ports worldwide, both by dollar volume and the tonnage of goods distributed. Regional port activity in May 2021 saw a 74% increase from the previous year, the highest annual gain on-record, as the economy continues to recover from the global pandemic.

11804 Wakeman Street is the joint venture's seventh acquisition since launching in September 2020. Most recently, Staley Point and Bain Capital Real Estate purchased 2700 California, a 135,000 square-foot industrial infill property in Torrance, California for $34.5 million. The joint venture has acquired other industrial assets across Orange County, Santa Fe Springs, and the San Fernando Valley.

Greenberg Traurig, LLP served as legal counsel to Staley Point Capital for the transaction. DAUM Commercial represented the seller and JLL Capital Markets will arrange the loan financing.

About Staley Point Capital

Staley Point Capital is a Los Angeles-based real estate investment firm. The firm was founded in 2019 by Kevin Staley and focuses on the acquisition of value-add and opportunistic real estate investments primarily in the industrial sector. Notable Southern California investments have included The Citadel in the City of Commerce, Magellan Gateway in El Monte and a self-storage portfolio, Magellan Storage. To find out more, visit www.staleypoint.com .

About Bain Capital Real Estate

Bain Capital Real Estate ( www.baincapital.com/businesses/real-estate ) was formed in 2018 and pursues investments in often hard-to-access sectors underpinned by enduring secular trends that drive long-term demand growth for real estate assets and services. The Bain Capital Real Estate team has been executing its strategy since 2010 (formerly as a part of Harvard Management Company), having invested and committed more than $5.2 billion of equity in more than 470 assets across multiple sectors. Bain Capital Real Estate focuses on small to mid-sized assets where the team applies its deep industry expertise to accelerate impact and drive operational improvements. Bain Capital Real Estate's strategy aligns with the value-added investment approach that Bain Capital pioneered and leverages the firm's global platform and significant experience across asset classes to further bolster its insights and sourcing capabilities.

Contacts

Mickey Mandelbaum, Prosek Partners

(310) 709-8900

[email protected]

Aidan O'Connor, Prosek Partners

(646) 818-9283

[email protected]

SOURCE Staley Point Capital

Related Links

https://www.staleypoint.com


CHEYENNE, Wyo., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Wyoming Summer Food Service program for kids offered through the Wyoming Department of Education has already served thousands of meals this summer to Wyoming children and teens.

"School is still weeks away and Wyoming children and teens have free meals available to them with no sign up or any questions asked," said Tamra Jackson, Child Nutrition Programs State Director with the Wyoming Department of Education. "We are loaded with summer food program sites from border to border. Finding a program near you is just a call away."

Call 211 for meal service details in your area. Callers interested in learning more can also call Amanda Andersen with the WDE at (307) 777-7168.

The Summer Food Service Program is a federally funded, state-administered program. The program reimburses providers who serve free healthy meals to children and teens during the summer months when school is not in session. This video from the Department of Agriculture does a good job of explaining the program. In addition to serving food, summer food sites often include activities for students to do during the summer including crafts and games.

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at: How to File a Complaint, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:

mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; fax: (202) 690-7442; or email: [email protected] .

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Media Contact:

Linda Finnerty, Communications Director

307-777-2053

[email protected]

SOURCE Wyoming Department of Education
MUMBAI, India, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- SVP Global Ventures Ltd, one of the fastest-growing multinational cotton yarn manufacturers in the country, was listed on the National Stock Exchange. The Mumbai-based Company commenced trading on NSE at Rs. 111.80 per share with a total quantity traded on the first day was 3.49 lacs shares with a total delivery of 54.37%. The Market Capitalization of the company post-closing price stood at Rs. 1361.77 Crores.

On the momentous occasion, Mr Chirag Pittie, Whole Time Director, SVP Global Ventures Ltd, said, "With this listing on the prestigious NSE, more investors will be able to participate in the growth story of the Company. We aim to focus on the three main national agendas: agriculture, employment, and foreign exchange earning. We will continue to focus on our domestic and international markets using the most modern state-of-the-art machines that provide us with higher operational margins. We are currently on a growth path and want our investors to benefit from it."

Mr O P Gulia, CEO, SVP Global Ventures Ltd, said, "We have been eagerly looking forward to this listing, and it's a privilege to be part of the NSE. This is a significant landmark for the Company's progressive journey as this will help us widen our retail investors' base across the country. We are on a growth trajectory, and the current financial performance has shown steady growth. The Company is working towards focussed technology-driven business operations."

Safe Harbor Statement

Statements in this document relating to future status, events, or circumstances, including but not limited to statements about plans and objectives, the progress and results of research and development, potential project characteristics, project potential and target dates for project-related issues, are forward-looking statements based on estimates and the anticipated effects of future events on current and developing circumstances. Such statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties and are not necessarily predictive of future results. Actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. The Company assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect actual results changed assumptions or other factors.

About SVP Global

Established in 1898 by Shri Vallabh Pittie, SVP Global Ventures started its business journey as a trader to become one of India's largest compact cotton yarn manufacturers with a combined experience of promoters and management for over 2 decades. The Company is headquartered in Mumbai and is primarily engaged in manufacturing polyester, polyester & cotton blend, and 100% cotton yarn across 3 state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Jhalawar, Rajasthan, Ramnad, Coimbatore and Sohar, Oman. The professionally managed Company has a vision to become a world-leading, fully integrated textile company in manufacturing yarn, fabric and end-user garments; it currently employees more than 3500 people across its manufacturing facilities. The continued focus has been to invest in the best technology, identify manufacturing locations that provide logistic and cost efficiencies.

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1390118/SVP_Global_Logo.jpg

SOURCE SVP Global Ventures
MONTREAL, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Syntax , the leading multi-cloud and multi-ERP managed cloud provider for mission-critical applications, today announced that it is now an AWS SAP Competency Partner. The AWS Competency Program is designed to identify, validate and promote AWS Partners with demonstrated AWS technical expertise and proven customer success.

"As an early SAP adopter and customer, Syntax has provided managed services for more than 40 years," said Marcelo Tamassia, Global CTO of Syntax. "We're proud to have achieved the SAP competency to further certify our robust SAP on AWS technology and service capabilities. We continue to innovate and invest on SAP and AWS to offer our customers proven, cost-effective and innovative solutions as a trusted member of the AWS Partner Network."



Attaining the AWS SAP Competency showcases Syntax's skills in specialized areas across industries, use cases and workloads. AWS SAP Competency Partners have demonstrated technical proficiency and proven success in SAP implementation, including best practices to streamline cloud migration and/or transformation.

Since 2009, Dole Packaged Foods, LLC (Dole) has run its SAP environment in Syntax's private cloud, relying on Syntax's ability and flexibility to support and secure Dole's mission-critical SAP applications. Looking to take the next step in their digital transformation, Dole leveraged a decade of trust in Syntax's experienced SAP Basis team to provide a seamless transition from private to public cloud. Syntax's deep roots and Advanced Consulting Partner status with AWS, together with its proven maximum performance and availability architecture, made for an ideal pairing.

"Syntax translated a deep understanding of our systems and how we use them into an architecture that would achieve our cost-savings goal in the public cloud," said Bill Farrell, Director, SAP Technology and Governance, Dole.

For the homogeneous migration from private to public cloud, Syntax used HANA replication, as well as AWS CloudEndure tools, to facilitate the migration. Through cross-region replication, Syntax replicated the entire environment to an alternate region, protecting against catastrophic failure.

"The Syntax team persevered at all levels, troubleshooting through multiple technical challenges to make it happen," said Farrell. "The biggest thing going forward is to take advantage of the technology and innovation that AWS offers, and we're counting on Syntax to translate that into tangible benefits for our business."

Syntax offers an array of SAP services, including assessments, planning, upgrades, migrations, cloud hosting, application managed services and end-to-end support. To learn more about Syntax's SAP solutions to migrate from SAP ECC to SAP Suite on HANA and S/4HANA, visit https://www.syntax.com/solutions/sap/.

About Syntax:

Since 1972, Syntax has been providing comprehensive technology solutions to businesses of all sizes with thousands of customers trusting Syntax with their IT services and ERP needs. Today, Syntax is a leading Managed Cloud Provider for Mission Critical Enterprise Applications. Syntax has undisputed strength to implement and manage ERP deployments (Oracle, SAP) in a secure, resilient, private, public or hybrid cloud. With strong technical and functional consulting services, and world-class monitoring and automation, Syntax serves corporations across a diverse range of industries and markets. Syntax has offices worldwide, and partners with Oracle, SAP, AWS, Microsoft, IBM, HPE, and other global technology leaders. Learn more about Syntax at www.syntax.com .

Contact: Matthew Royse Tel: 919-287-4873 Marketing Director, Syntax [email protected] Jessica Melton Tel: 512-985-7611 PR Manager, Walker Sands [email protected]

SOURCE Syntax

Related Links

http://www.syntax.com


PORTSMOUTH, N.H., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- On the heels of the Biden Administration issuing its interim final rule related to the No Surprises Act, Mark Galvin, CEO and Founder of TALON (www.talonhealthtech.com), the transformational healthcare technology company, is urging the federal government to take further action to drive down healthcare costs. He hopes the Administration will consider rescinding the 80/20 Rule, also known as the Medical Loss Ratio.

TALON already has clients in 49 states who have turned to the company to achieve compliance with both the No Surprises Act and Transparency in Coverage Rule (https://talonhealthtech.com/transparency-in-coverage/). TALON's MyMedicalShopper app and related software products were viewed as gold standards by the government as the Rule and Act were fashioned.

But Galvin thinks the Biden Administration can take another bold step toward free markets and cutting waste. "The 80/20 Rule actually incentivizes insurers to waste subscriber premiums," Galvin said. "The Administration should formulate a plan to get rid of it, as soon as possible."

In simple terms, the 80/20 Rule means that insurers must spend 80 percent of their revenue from premiums to pay for the healthcare of their subscribers. The other 20 percent is theirs to keep. Of the 80 percent, what hasn't been spent on medical bills must be returned to subscribers.

Americans have received rebate checks from their health insurers when the Medical Loss Ratio doesn't "measure up" to the 80/20 Rule. In 2020, $2.46 billion was returned. But Galvin says that's actually not good news.

"Rebate checks look good, but when Minnesota's former Senator Al Franken championed them as part of the Affordable Care Act, he didn't think about how the 80/20 rule would affect the psychology of health insurance companies," Galvin said. "Because if those companies are limited to making 20 percent of what they spend on health care for their subscribers, guess what they're going to be motivated to do: Spend more. Then their 20 percent is a higher number."

According to Galvin, it's just arithmetic. "I would bet anything that the $2.46 billion returned to consumers in 2020 could have been more than double that had insurers diligently negotiated for lower prices on behalf of consumers," Galvin said. "But we have inadvertently created an incentive for them to spend more, not less, on medical bills."

That's why Galvin says the truly good news about the Biden Administration issuing its interim final rule related to the No Surprises Act and the prior issuing by the Trump Administration of the Transparency in Coverage Rule should be accompanied by the President rescinding the 80/20 Rule by Executive Order.

"We have powerful new bipartisan tools and incentives at hand that promise to revolutionize health care economics," Galvin said. "The Biden Administration would only further those goals by surgically removing the cancerous 80/20 Rule."

Source: TALON (https://talonhealthtech.com/free-consultation/)

SOURCE TALON

Related Links

http://www.talonhealthtech.com


During Make Someone Smile  Week , Teleflora donates more than 30,000 Be Happy Mugs to house the classic Teleflora bouquet that has come to embody the Make Someone Smile Week program . Member florists then work with local wholesalers and growers in their areas to secure donations of fresh flowers for their volunteer teams, who design surprise bouquets and deliver them to community members in need of a smile.

"This past year has been challenging for everyone, especially for those on the front lines. So, now more than ever, it's important to spread joy and happiness," says Lottie McKinnon, program director of industry relations, education, and design academy at Teleflora. "We are honored and grateful to be celebrating our twentieth year of Make Someone Smile Week. The passion and enthusiasm that Teleflora florists and volunteers show for our humanitarian program has led to it becoming one of the floral industry's leading charitable projects across the country. We look forward to many more years of delivering smiles to those in need."

Make Someone Smile Week was developed by Teleflora in 2000 and is the floral industry's most successful volunteer initiative in North America, delivering more than 570,000 bouquets and smiles to local communities around the country. In 2019, the program spanned more than 100 facilities throughout the United States and Canada led by florists who donated their time to deliver more than 30,000 bouquets and smiles. As Teleflora florists are making deliveries this year for Make Someone Smile Week, consumers can also share in the spirit of delivering a smile to someone in need by visiting http://www.teleflora.com.

About Teleflora

Say everything and share your "Love Out Loud" with the gift of Teleflora flowersall made by hand and delivered by hand by your local florist. With more than 10,000 member florists in North America alone, Teleflora offers the kind of personal touches, artistry, and expertise you expect from a trusted neighborhood floristeven if that neighborhood is across the country. No prepackaged flowers in nondescript boxes dropped on your doorstepTeleflora's network of professional florists creates artistic arrangements personally delivered in a vase, often on the same day. Teleflora makes every day an occasion with a two-in-one gift that includes a multipurpose keepsake container for long-lasting enjoyment. For more, visit: www.teleflora.com, or follow us on Instagram and Facebook and tag your own #LoveOutLoud moment.

SOURCE Teleflora

Related Links

https://www.teleflora.com


The VisitMexico USA initiative has partnered with PassID powered by PROVEN, a secure, digital tool that allows organizations to safely confirm the COVID-19 health status of travelers, employees, and customers. The health tool helps fight the spread of COVID-19 while keeping everyone's health information safe, secure and is only seen by licensed healthcare professionals. Key features of the MyPassID App include verified COVID-19 vaccine credentials, COVID-19 symptom/contact tracing, and with additional capabilities to use thermal imaging and biometric screening. The system functions as much more than a vaccine passport because it can include anyone, regardless of whether they are vaccinated, have recovered from COVID-19, or are showing no signs of exposure or symptoms.

The mobile App works on iPhone and Android devices and displays a QR code that confirms the user's name, birthday, and time stamp of health clearance. The system is easy to deploy, safe, secure, and HIPAA regulated. All personal health information is kept secure and confidential, and the software integrates into systems such as travel reservation databases to provide verification before travel or events.

Under the guidance of director general Gonzalez Gonzalez and Marcos Achar Levy, Visit Mexico has adopted the most advanced digital technology and data analysis to modernize tourism engagement and ensure a smooth experience for travelers going to and from Mexico. The effort is not only focused on driving safe and healthy travel to Mexico, but also on providing all travelers with the most comprehensive and health-conscious experience while in the country.

The PassID powered by PROVEN mobile app MyPassID is secured with access control measures to keep users' personal information private. The technology is HIPAA compliant and HITRUST certified so that users and organizations can feel comfortable knowing their data is secure and compliant with the highest standards. The app is currently available for download from Google Play and the App store.

"As borders continue to open up and tourism picks up, there is an increased need for health monitoring to protect the safety of both passengers and the country-at-large," said USHealthPass President and Chairman of the Visit Mexico Health Board Peter Gallic. "PROVEN will fill that need, keeping travelers safe and secure with this portable tool that can validate anyone's COVID-19 health status."

"Following our strategy to promote Mexico as a destination and attract travelers in a reliable and safe way, we are excited to announce this alliance that will help travelers have the confidence while making their traveling decisions to Mexicos most wanted destinations," said Carlos Gonzalez Gonzalez, General Director of VisitMexico.

About Visit Mexico

Braintivity/Visit Mexico is a private organization and self-funded strategy that is bringing a new approach to marketing and promoting the entire country of Mexico. Over the past two years and during the pandemic, they have been developing platforms, creating worldwide international alliances and focusing on a strategy. The Visit Mexico unique strategy was established in 2018 under Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, and with the leadership of Lic. Miguel Torruco Marquez, tourism minister of Mexico.

About Visit Mexico USA

Visit Mexico USA was formed by Kent M. Swig, Gary K. Levi and Alvaro Vitolo to market and promote visitor travel to Mexico. The three principals have decades of experience in the hospitality, tourism, real estate, marketing, and government sectors of the economy. With their respective backgrounds, they bring to this collaboration a wealth of knowledge to effectively create the visibility and awareness necessary to substantially increase business and tourism interest in Mexico. In addition, with this first international office of the Visit Mexico brand, the three principals have assembled an executive team that includes the best leaders in the leisure and travel and branding industries.

About USHealthPass

Based in Clearwater Florida and Washington DC, PROVEN is a new digital health tool launch by USHealthPass, which is partnering with organizations across the globe to safely reopen as we find new solutions to live and work with COVID-19, and allows people to move freely without violating their privacy (HIPAA compliant). PROVEN provides a global health pass to help keep each other safe as we get back to life. The tool keeps everyone's personal health information safe and all medical records confidential as they are reviewed by licensed healthcare professionals. PROVEN provides employers, schools, tourism, hospitality, and event providers a straightforward color-coded status to quickly understand if someone has been COVID verified or not. For more information, please visit ProvenPass.com.

About Pass

Pass is a PassID offering that focuses on providing access control mechanisms for organizations and individuals alike. The Pass product suite involves a range of solutions including an access control endpoint, a mobile app with verified digital credentials, and a cloud platform with advanced data analytics  all of which enable users to authenticate and utilize their identity to move through life seamlessly. To learn more, visit https://www.passid.com or connect with us on LinkedIn and Facebook.

SOURCE USHealthPass
WASHINGTON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- More than 70 guests representing over 20 countries  including ambassadors and other VIPs  came together for a night of art and food to celebrate the opening of Embassy Row's newest "in place to be."

Czechnian artist Slavka Kratka helped christen Ven's new Art Gallery. An architect by education and trade, Kratka's paintings of buildings and towns have been exhibited in China, Italy, Germany, and now the United States.

"It was exciting to have Slavka here and talk about her transition to art," said Satarra Leona of DC-based Art In Color Art Gallery.

The hotel's Fred & Stilla Restaurant  Dupont Circle's most recent acclaimed gastronomical addition  also launched its first Ambassador Happy Hour series with Czech Ambassador HE Hynek Kmonicek. Ambassador Kmonicek donned his chef's apron and prepared Fromage Bites with Czech Pilsner Caramel  baked goat cheese truffle bites drizzled with a caramelized Czech pilsner lager beer foam  to the delight of assembled guests. The Ambassador will also contribute a Czech dish to the permanent menu of the restaurant.

Ambassador Kmonicek is known among diplomatic circles for elegant private dinner parties he hosts for Washington ambassadors and a sense of humor. He regaled guests with humorous anecdotes such as when he first made the dish and nearly "blew up the kitchen."

"The Ven at Embassy Row, managed by Crescent Hotels and Resorts, a premier hotel management company is the ideal location for visiting delegations," Ambassador Kmonicek, said. "The menu of Fred and Stilla is so international that it sounds like United Nations gathering. i find it lovely that such a perfect product as the Czech beer can actually be twisted into a special caramel and be served as a dish in the center of the US capital. it is the privilege to be the chef of beer, not just one of many ambassadors in this city"

Jennifer Goodman, General Manager of the hotel, said the night demonstrated the best of what Washington has to offer.

"This is what the Ven at Embassy Row is all about," Goodman said. "Tonight was about connecting after a long hiatus as well as connecting the many different cultures in our part of Washington that make our perch here unique. I look forward to our many future events."

SOURCE Ven at Embassy Row
DALLAS, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- VolunteerNow, which has been transforming lives through volunteerism for 50 years, has been selected as a finalist for D CEO's 2021 Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship Awards.

VolunteerNow was recognized in the Social Enterprise category for applying creative strategies to maximize benefits to the North Texas community through its proprietary volunteer management platform, VOLY.org.

"We are thrilled VolunteerNow has been named a finalist in D CEO's 2021 Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship Awards as we work towards our five-year goal to register one million volunteers and 100 school districts through VOLY.org," said Tammy Richards, CEO of VolunteerNow. "Our technology allows VolunteerNow to elevate our mission and earn much-needed revenue even with the challenges of the past year. VOLY.org has vaulted VolunteerNow into a national technology nonprofit organization and licensing this technology yields funds needed to connect volunteers with opportunities in North Texas and throughout the country."

The VOLY.org platform can be licensed to school districts, municipalities and other organizations as an internal volunteer management tool. Districts and schools use VOLY.org to conduct background checks, schedule and communicate with volunteers, and introduce parents and community members to volunteer opportunities aligned with their interests and skill set. By engaging and screening mentors, tutors and other volunteers through VOLY.org, school districts can minimize learning loss, provide essential wraparound services and start closing the achievement gap exacerbated by the pandemic.

A large school district in Texas leveraged VOLY.org to register more than 100,000 volunteers since 2016, totaling over 1.21 million hours of service valued at more than $34.6 million.

Presented in partnership with the Communities Foundation of Texas and sponsored by Capital One, the awards honor nonprofit organizations making a positive and efficient impact on the Dallas community. Judges chose a total of 112 finalists from more than 500 nominations. The winners of the 2021 Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship awards will be announced during a ceremony on July 28 at the Frontiers of Flight Museum. To view the full list of finalists, click here.

About VolunteerNow

With 50 years of experience, VolunteerNow transforms lives through volunteerism and community engagement. In a typical year, VolunteerNow mobilizes more than 310,000 volunteers who give 1.6 million hours to 3,500 local nonprofits, driving a $46 million economic impact. VOLY.org, powered by VolunteerNow, is the 24/7 connection between volunteers and local service opportunities. As a national thought leader in volunteerism and one of the largest volunteer centers in the country, VolunteerNow provides a wide range of programs and services that build capacity for school districts, nonprofits, and municipalities. www.volnow.org

SOURCE VolunteerNow

Related Links

http://www.volnow.org


BENTON HARBOR, Mich., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) today announced Habitat for Humanity's BuildBetter with Whirlpool initiative, an expansion of Habitat's existing BuildBetter program that will deliver more than 250 climate-resilient and energy-efficient homes to hundreds of Americans in need of affordable housing over the next three years.

The Habitat houses surviving a storm.

The broadened initiative sits at the heart of Whirlpool Corporation's global corporate social responsibility approach called House + Home, that contributes to comfortable and nurturing places to live and supports resilient, thriving, and sustainable communities. Through House + Home, Whirlpool Corporation will support Habitat for Humanity to construct homes designed to better withstand storm winds, natural disasters and other severe weather events that are intensifying.

The homes will provide welcome support for homeowners throughout the U.S. who contend with increasing threats and expensive repairs from natural disasters. They will also help reduce operating costs for homeowners with limited budgets, through an expected improvement in energy efficiency of approximately 15 percent compared to homes built to current local government code, contributing to a more sustainable future for local communities.

"For 110 years, improving life at home has always been at the heart of our business. It doesn't matter who you are or where you livea comfortable, nurturing home is essential for everyone," said Jeff Noel, VP of Communications and Public Affairs at Whirlpool Corporation. "This initiative continues our long history of leveraging our innovative, quality appliances and philanthropic support to improve life at home for people around the world."

"Whirlpool Corporation has been a tremendous partner in helping us improve and broaden the ways we can help more families achieve housing stability. Through the launch of our BuildBetter initiative, Whirlpool's support will help us accelerate the construction of resilient, energy-efficient homes and can result in greater savings for families," said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity. "Whirlpool's dedication to this program will enable the focused research needed to expand sustainable housing to even more communities, helping with neighborhood revitalization and environmental impact."

In addition to enhanced storm-resilient measures, such as secure-and-sealed roof decks, all homeowners under the program will be eligible to choose at least one upgrade that addresses a hazard specific to their state, including enhanced flood or fire defence. Habitat organizations participating in the program will receive technical guidance on construction design and implementation, as well as funding for energy-efficient upgrades.

Whirlpool Corporation employees are volunteering to help build these homes with Habitat for Humanity. Construction began July 2021.

In addition to the BuildBetter with Whirlpool initiative, Whirlpool Corporation and Habitat for Humanity are also collaborating to:

Provide a range and refrigerator for every new Habitat home built in the U.S. and Canada

Inaugurate October as Global Build Month, during which Whirlpool Corporation will provide nearly $6 million in funding and home appliances to Habitat organizations in the U.S., Canada , Mexico , Brazil , Argentina , India , Singapore , Poland , and the U.K.

in funding and home appliances to Habitat organizations in the U.S., , , , , , , , and the U.K. Host three Habitat global housing forums in Europe , Middle East and Africa ; the Latin America and Caribbean region, and the Asia-Pacific region that bring together the best minds in affordable housing to spur innovation that meets the needs of the planet's growing population, while addressing increasing challenges related to climate change.

, and ; the and region, and the region that bring together the best minds in affordable housing to spur innovation that meets the needs of the planet's growing population, while addressing increasing challenges related to climate change. Help advance the Habitat Cost of Home advocacy campaign, a five-year program through which local Habitat organizations, partners, volunteers and community members across the United States work together to help 10 million people have access to an affordable home.

With the addition of these contributions, Whirlpool Corporation has donated nearly $130 million to Habitat for Humanity International and supported Habitat programs in 45 countries.

For more details on Whirlpool Corporation's sustainability efforts, please visit the company's 2020 Sustainability Report here .

About Whirlpool Corporation

Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) is committed to being the best global kitchen and laundry company, in constant pursuit of improving life at home. In an increasingly digital world, the company is driving purposeful innovation to meet the evolving needs of consumers through its iconic brand portfolio, including Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, Consul, Brastemp, Amana, Bauknecht, JennAir, Indesit and Yummly. In 2020, the company reported approximately $19 billion in annual sales, 78,000 employees and 57 manufacturing and technology research centers. Additional information about the company can be found at WhirlpoolCorp.com.

About Whirlpool Corporation House + Home

It doesn't matter who you are or where you live; a comfortable, nurturing place to live is an essential anchor for everyone. It's where we begin to build our lives and a better future. But around the world today, 1.6 billion people live in substandard housing. And one in ten people worldwide live in "distressed communities," experiencing a perpetual cycle of low-wage jobs, education instability, inadequate transport, and racial inequality.

That's why Whirlpool Corporation created House + Home. It is the company's comprehensive approach to social impact around the globe via:

House: Where we are contributing to comfortable and nurturing places to live.

Where we are contributing to comfortable and nurturing places to live. Home: Where we are supporting resilient, thriving, and sustainable communities through education and neighborhood development programs.

We are proud to work closely with our employees and their families, local businesses, government and other non-profits to help improve quality of life for all residents in a neighborhood, and to offer education and skills building programs that support more fulfilling, inclusive and sustainable living at home.

Whirlpool Corporation's global House + Home partners include: Habitat for Humanity, Instituto Consulado da Mulher, and the Boys and Girls Club of America.

SOURCE Whirlpool Corporation

Related Links

http://www.whirlpoolcorp.com


SUZHOU, China, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Dr Evans Fanoulis, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University Assistant Professor in International Relations, will refer to the EU's climate change actions during his presentation on the EU's innovation priorities at the 3rd Global Summit on Manufacturing Outsourcing in Changchun, China, 19-20 July.

"China and EU have so far developed joint projects and synergies regarding climate change, pollution and the environment," Dr Fanoulis says. "There are joint ministerial and high-level dialogues devoted to climate change and environmental issues within the framework of the EU-China strategic partnership. There is considerable cooperation on these crucial issues.

"Both sides are keen on working together regarding global climate governance. To this end, China and EU have agreed to jointly commit to the Paris Agreement on climate change."

EU's collaboration with China on innovation was particularly emphasized in the 2020 Strategic Agenda, a 2013 agreement between the two partners establishing synergies in different policy areas.

"Within the context of the EU-China strategic partnership, the EU has already funded projects on research, innovation and scientific development," Dr Fanoulis says.

"My hunch is that the EU and China will keep on working closely and devise innovative solutions to problems like climate change and further explore collaborative initiatives in other fields, such as education and public health, also due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis."

In his presentation, Dr Fanoulis will also refer to the EU's trade and industrial policies, the EU's investment on research and innovation and the EU-China collaboration in other key areas.

China and the European Union have productively collaborated in recent years, with focus on food and agricultural products, water management, health, education, disaster risk management, climate change and environmental protection.

Now, climate and environmental policy will come to the forefront given the EU's 14 July announcement of its sweeping "Fit for 55" plan to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions. The plan released by the European Commission, the EU's executive body, details how the 27 EU countries can meet a collective goal to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 by 55% of 1990 levels. The ultimate goalnet-zero emissions by 2050.

The summit is sponsored by the Changchun and Jilin province authorities and partners include the World Trade Organisation, the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Volkswagen, BMW, Pfizer, and Baidu.

Related Links

www.xjtlu.edu.cn



SOURCE Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University
MINNEAPOLIS, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- 75F, the global leader in IoT-based building automation technologies to optimize indoor air quality and energy efficiency in commercial spaces, today announced an investment from Siemens AG. Next47, the global venture capital firm backed by Siemens, led the investment on behalf of Siemens Smart Infrastructure. The latest influx in 75F's Series A funding round brings the Minneapolis-based company's total funding to $28 million. Next47 joins a prestigious group of investors who have supported 75F including Bill Gates' Breakthrough Energy, OGCI Climate Investments, and WIND Ventures, among others.

"This investment signals a broader industry shift toward energy efficiency and the technologies that make those savings accessible to more customers," said Henning Sandfort, CEO of Building Products at Siemens Smart Infrastructure. "75F's wireless solution is easy to install and implement, offers fully-integrated AI and analytics, and can help get companies large or small on a path to meeting their energy or carbon reduction goals."

75F's vertically-integrated, full-stack solution includes custom hardware and software that works out of the box to improve comfort and indoor air quality while optimizing building energy use. The system uses built-in AI to create a digital twin of any commercial building, merging data from a wireless sensor network and third-party weather forecasts to predictively and proactively redirect air where it is needed most. More than a million data points and hundreds of thousands of individual decisions are analyzed and made in each customer building daily. The system is the only IoT-native solution available on the market today, a differentiator that leads to more connected, intuitive, efficient and affordable building operations.

"As a leader in automation and digitalization, Siemens is committed to supporting products, solutions and services that can deliver productivity and flexibility to customers across the value chain," Sandfort said.

"We are honored to have the support of global leaders like Siemens," said Deepinder Singh, founder and CEO of 75F. "We want every commercial building to have the technology needed to run efficiently and affordably. My belief as an entrepreneur has always been that we should turn market leaders into partners  by doing this, we can accelerate the adoption of truly innovative technology across the industry."

This philosophy is one espoused by Steve Case, AOL Co-founder and Chairman and CEO of Revolution, the venture firm behind the Rise of the Rest Seed Fund, one of 75F's earliest investors. "We have entered the Third Wave of the Internet, where it is no longer the Internet of things, it is the Internet of everything," Case said. "Companies like 75F are so compelling because they are building on that trend with a focus on what I call the three Ps: Partnership, Policy, and Perseverance."

About 75F

75F designs and manufactures the world's leading IoT-based Building Management System, an out-of-the-box, vertically-integrated solution that is more affordable and easier to deploy than anything on the market today. The company leverages IoT, Cloud Computing and Machine Learning for data-driven, proactive building intelligence and controls for HVAC and lighting optimization. Investors include some of the biggest names in energy and technology. 75F's mission is to improve occupant productivity through enhanced comfort and indoor air quality  all while saving energy and the environment.

Visit www.75f.io and @75f_io to learn more.

About Siemens Smart Infrastructure

Siemens Smart Infrastructure (SI) is shaping the market for intelligent, adaptive infrastructure for today and the future. It addresses the pressing challenges of urbanization and climate change by connecting energy systems, buildings and industries. SI provides customers with a comprehensive end-to-end portfolio from a single source  with products, systems, solutions and services from the point of power generation all the way to consumption. With an increasingly digitalized ecosystem, it helps customers thrive and communities progress while contributing toward protecting the planet. SI creates environments that care. Siemens Smart Infrastructure has its global headquarters in Zug, Switzerland. As of September 30, 2020, the business had around 69,600 employees worldwide.



75F Media Contact

Lauren French

612-439-5513

[email protected]

SOURCE 75F

Related Links

www.75f.io


EIGHTY FOUR, Pa., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- 84 Lumber, the nation's largest privately held building materials supplier, is launching a recruitment effort to fill immediate openings at their locations in the Indianapolis region. The company will host a Hiring Event on July 20th from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. at its Greenwood retail store (484 East Worthsville Road, Greenwood, IN 46143).

At the event, job seekers will learn more about the company culture and get the opportunity to be interviewed for open positions in the area that include manager trainee, truck driver, warehouse associate, and truss production associate. Qualified applicants may receive an offer of employment during the event.

"84 Lumber is seeking to fill 15 open positions in the greater Indianapolis area, including our locations in Greenwood, Indianapolis, and Franklin," said Phil Garuccio, divisional vice president at 84 Lumber. "We're growing along with the growth in the construction industry  here in the Indianapolis region and across the nation. We're looking for people seeking a fresh start."

Woodrow went on to detail the openings in the region:

Manager trainees hired by 84 Lumber enter an intensive, one-on-one, on-the-job training program that teaches them about the company's business and puts them on a path to become a future leader within the enterprise. Starting compensation for manager trainees is $40,000 per year.

hired by 84 Lumber enter an intensive, one-on-one, on-the-job training program that teaches them about the company's business and puts them on a path to become a future leader within the enterprise. Starting compensation for manager trainees is per year. Non-CDL truck drivers load trucks and deliver materials to customer job sites. Drivers are responsible for building loads for deliveries; maintaining a safe, clean, and well-organized lumber yard; and loading and unloading lumber and building supplies. Hourly pay for drivers is up to $14 per hour.

load trucks and deliver materials to customer job sites. Drivers are responsible for building loads for deliveries; maintaining a safe, clean, and well-organized lumber yard; and loading and unloading lumber and building supplies. Hourly pay for drivers is up to per hour. Warehouse associates need no prior experience and perform essential functions behind the scenes from the management of supply shipments to the operation of forklifts and other equipment. These associates can expect a starting pay of up to $14 per hour.

need no prior experience and perform essential functions behind the scenes from the management of supply shipments to the operation of forklifts and other equipment. These associates can expect a starting pay of up to per hour. Production associates need no prior experience and perform essential behind-the-scenes functions in the manufacturing processes related to engineered wood products, trusses, and components. These associates can expect a starting pay of between $13.50 and $14.50 per hour based on experience.

"We are a family-owned company, which means we are committed to helping our employees build and cultivate a career with us. In fact, 95% of our store managers started in our manager trainee program," Garuccio said. "As we see it, 84 Lumber recruits individuals with a can-do attitude, a willingness to work hard, and a desire to learn. Once we find these people and they join the company, we teach and train them and find ways for them to grow with us."

Garuccio added that 84 Lumber expects it might find the right fit from all types of candidates  an individual with no construction experience, military veterans ready to embark on their next career challenge, or people with some previous work experience who seek to redirect their career.

Candidates interested in participating in the Hiring Event are asked to pre-register. To sign up, go to 84 Lumber's Hiring Page and complete the form. Once you are registered, you will receive an email from 84 Lumber with the link to apply for the desired position. To save time, candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for positions online before they attend the event.

NOTE: 84 Lumber continues to follow CDC safety guidelines with regard to COVID-19. We ask that those attendees who are not yet fully vaccinated wear a mask and maintain social distancing.

To learn more about 84 Lumber, follow the company on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

ABOUT 84 LUMBER

Founded in 1956 and headquartered in Eighty Four, Pennsylvania, 84 Lumber Company is the nation's largest privately held supplier of building materials, manufactured components and industry-leading services for single- and multi-family residences and commercial buildings. The company operates nearly 250 stores, component manufacturing plants, custom door shops, custom millwork shops and engineered wood product centers in more than 30 states. 84 Lumber also offers turnkey installation services for a variety of products, including framing, insulation, siding, windows, roofing, decking and drywall. A certified national women's business enterprise owned by Maggie Hardy Knox, 84 Lumber was named by Forbes as one of America's Largest Private Companies in 2018 and one of America's Best Large Employers in 2019. For more information, visit 84lumber.com or join us at Facebook.com/84lumber and linkedin.com/company/84-lumber .

Contact: Jeff Donaldson, BLD Marketing

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (412) 347-8039

Photos: http://www.bldpressroom.com/84lumber/indianapolis-hiring-event

SOURCE 84 Lumber
EIGHTY FOUR, Pa., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- 84 Lumber, the nation's largest privately held building materials supplier, is launching a recruitment effort to fill immediate openings at retail stores in the Las Vegas area. The company will host a Hiring Event on July 22nd from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. at its Las Vegas retail location (4430 S Decatur Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89103).

At the event, job seekers will learn more about the company culture and get the opportunity to be interviewed for open positions in the area that include forklift operator and lumber yard associate. Qualified applicants may receive an offer of employment during the event.

"84 Lumber is seeking to fill 10 open positions in the Las Vegas region, including at our locations in Las Vegas and North Las Vegas to add to our team of more than 65 employees in the area," said Jorge Espinoza, divisional vice president at 84 Lumber. "We're growing along with the growth in the construction industry  here in Las Vegas and across the nation. We're looking for people seeking a fresh start."

Woodrow went on to detail the openings in the region:

Forklift operators and lumber yard associates need no prior experience and perform essential functions behind the scenes  from management of supply shipments to operation of heavy equipment. These associates can expect a starting pay of up to $13 per hour with a $2 per hour raise after 90 days of employment meeting or exceeding performance expectations.

"We are a family-owned company, which means we are committed to helping our employees build and cultivate a career with us. In fact, 95% of our store managers started in our manager trainee program," Espinoza said. "As we see it, 84 Lumber recruits individuals with a can-do attitude, a willingness to work hard, and a desire to learn. Once we find these people and they join the company, we teach and train them and find ways for them to grow with us."

Espinoza added that 84 Lumber expects it might find the right fit from all types of candidates  an individual with no construction experience, military veterans ready to embark on their next career challenge, or people with some previous work experience who seek to redirect their career.

Candidates interested in participating in the Hiring Event are asked to pre-register. To sign up, go to 84 Lumber's Hiring Page and complete the form. Once you are registered, you will receive an email from 84 Lumber with the link to apply for the desired position. To save time, candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for positions online before they attend the event.

NOTE: 84 Lumber continues to follow CDC safety guidelines with regard to COVID-19. We ask that those attendees who are not yet fully vaccinated wear a mask and maintain social distancing.

To learn more about 84 Lumber, follow the company on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

ABOUT 84 LUMBER

Founded in 1956 and headquartered in Eighty Four, Pennsylvania, 84 Lumber Company is the nation's largest privately held supplier of building materials, manufactured components and industry-leading services for single- and multi-family residences and commercial buildings. The company operates nearly 250 stores, component manufacturing plants, custom door shops, custom millwork shops and engineered wood product centers in more than 30 states. 84 Lumber also offers turnkey installation services for a variety of products, including framing, insulation, siding, windows, roofing, decking and drywall. A certified national women's business enterprise owned by Maggie Hardy Knox, 84 Lumber was named by Forbes as one of America's Largest Private Companies in 2018 and one of America's Best Large Employers in 2019. For more information, visit 84lumber.com or join us at Facebook.com/84lumber and linkedin.com/company/84-lumber .

Contact: Jeff Donaldson, BLD Marketing

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (412) 347-8039

Photos: http://www.bldpressroom.com/84lumber/las-vegas-hiring-event

SOURCE 84 Lumber
STAMFORD, Conn., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Aircastle Limited (the "Company" or "Aircastle") announced today the promotion and appointment of Dane Silverman, as Chief Accounting Officer. Jim Connelly, the prior Chief Accounting Officer will take on a new role as SVP ESG and Corporate Communications. Frank Constantinople, SVP Investor Relations, has decided that he intends to retire at the end of October 2021.

Mr. Silverman has been Aircastle's VP Controller since he joined Aircastle in September 2018. Prior to joining Aircastle, Mr. Silverman held Controller and Assistant Controller roles at Voyager Aviation from May 2016. Prior to this, he was a Senior Manager in KPMG LLP's audit practice. He received a B.S. in Accounting from Marist College and is a CPA.

Mr. Connelly has been Aircastle's Chief Accounting Officer since August 2018. Mr. Connelly originally joined Aircastle in 2007 and will lead the Company's ESG initiatives and corporate communications, which will include fixed income investor relations.

Prior to his retirement at the end of October 2021, Mr. Constantinople will continue in his current role and transition to Mr. Connelly.

Michael Inglese, Aircastle's CEO, commented, "We are pleased to promote and appoint Dane Silverman as our Chief Accounting Officer to complement our deep and talented leadership team. We are also pleased to have Jim transition to focus on and lead our ESG efforts, which are a priority for Aircastle. We are grateful for Frank Constantinople's professional, loyal and dedicated service leading our equity and fixed income investor relations function since 2012."

About Aircastle Limited

Aircastle Limited acquires, leases and sells commercial jet aircraft to airlines throughout the world. As of May 31, 2021, Aircastle owned and managed on behalf of its joint ventures 259 aircraft leased to 77 customers located in 43 countries.

Contact:

Aircastle Advisor LLC

Frank Constantinople, SVP Investor Relations

Tel: +1-203-504-1063

[email protected]

SOURCE Aircastle Limited

Related Links

http://www.aircastle.com


HONOLULU, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Alexander & Baldwin, Inc. (NYSE:ALEX) (A&B) will report results for the second quarter 2021, after the market closes, on Thursday, July 29, 2021. In connection with this announcement, A&B will host a conference call and webcast on Thursday, July 29, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. ET.

The call and webcast will feature a presentation on operating and financial performance, followed by questions from sell-side research analysts participating in the interactive portion of the discussion. Parties listening via the webcast will be in a "listen-only" mode.

Company participants on the call and webcast will be Chris Benjamin, president and chief executive officer, and Brett Brown, executive vice president and chief financial officer, along with other members of senior management.

To listen to the conference call, please dial in at least 5 minutes prior to start time.

Domestic: 1-877-870-4263

International: 1-412-317-0790

Please instruct the operator to connect you to the Alexander & Baldwin call.

Access to the webcast will be via a link on the Investors page of A&B's website at www.alexanderbaldwin.com. Presentation slides will be available for download from A&B's website after the market closes on July 29, 2021.

About Alexander & Baldwin, Inc.

Alexander & Baldwin, Inc. (NYSE: ALEX) (A&B) is the only publicly-traded real estate investment trust to focus exclusively on Hawai'i commercial real estate and is the state's largest owner of grocery-anchored, neighborhood shopping centers. A&B owns, operates and manages approximately 3.9 million square feet of commercial space in Hawai'i, including 22 retail centers, 10 industrial assets and 4 office properties, as well as 149 acres of ground leases. A&B is expanding and strengthening its Hawai'i CRE portfolio and achieving its strategic focus on commercial real estate by monetizing its remaining non-core assets. Over its 150-year history, A&B has evolved with the state's economy and played a leadership role in the development of the agricultural, transportation, tourism, construction, residential and commercial real estate industries. Learn more about A&B at www.alexanderbaldwin.com.

Contact:

A&B Investor Relations

(808) 525-8475

[email protected]

SOURCE Alexander & Baldwin, Inc.

Related Links

www.alexanderbaldwin.com


ST. LOUIS, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- One group that can get overlooked in the diversity, equity and inclusion conversation are those with disabilities  but not at Ameren Corporation (NYSE: AEE). Once again, the company has received a perfect 100% on the Disability Equality Index (DEI), recognizing its programs and policies that promote inclusiveness for Ameren employees, customers and suppliers with disabilities. This is the seventh year in a row that Ameren has received the top score.

The Disability Equality Index is the world's most comprehensive benchmarking tool for Fortune 1000 companies to measure disability workplace inclusion against competitors. It measures how the company promotes inclusivity for those with disabilities with regard to culture and leadership, benefits, recruitment, training, retention and advancement, accommodations, community engagement and supplier diversity.

"We are proud to once again be recognized as a Best Place to Work for Disability Equality," said Sharon Harvey Davis, vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion and chief diversity officer at Ameren. "We believe a culture that values diversity and fosters equity and inclusion is critical to our ability to fulfill our mission  to power the quality of life for our customers and in our communities, not only through the energy we provide but also through volunteerism, philanthropy, energy assistance and sponsorships."

Ameren has programs in place to create an inclusive and successful work environment for employees with disabilities, including:

An employee resource group, Powering Connections for All Abilities (PCAA), to support fellow employees with disabilities and help advise the company on accommodations.

Partnership with Starkloff Disability Institute to provide disability-led educational programming and advise on inclusivity at Ameren.

"It's important that we, as a company, support our co-workers with disabilities, as their lived experiences and talents bring great strengths to our work," said Amir Lilienthal, president of PCAA at Ameren. "Approximately 30% of adults in Missouri and 23% in Illinois have a disability. When our team reflects the diversity in our communities, we're better able to understand and meet the needs of our customers."

Ameren supports customers with disabilities through a number of volunteer efforts, such as building wheelchair ramps at the homes of injured veterans, as well as hosting a cohort of high school students with disabilities to teach them about careers in the energy industry and how to prepare to attain them.

For many years, Ameren has supported the critical work by Variety to assist children with disabilities and their families by providing Variety Kids with 107 power wheelchairs. These specialized 'Ameren Power Chairs' allow kids and their families to build confidence and better engage with the world around them. In addition, Ameren's PCAA partners with Paraquad to build ramps for abled individuals. The company also helped contribute funds towards these builds and ramps for Paraquad's health and wellness center. Finally, the company also spends approximately 25% of total spending with diverse suppliers, including those with disabilities.

In 2021, 319 corporations completed the Disability Equality Index. Each company received a score, on a scale of zero to 100, with those earning 80% and above recognized as a "Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion."

"The Disability Equality Index shines a spotlight on companies that believe they have a stake in creating a more equitable society for people with disabilities," said Maria Town, president and CEO of American Association of People with Disabilities. "It is a conduit for our work championing disability rights for the 60 million Americans with disabilities and knocking down barriers to employment, technology and health care, and we're thrilled to see the progress being made today."

The DEI is a joint initiative of the AAPD, the nation's largest disability rights organization, and Disability:IN, the global business disability inclusion network, to collectively advance the inclusion of people with disabilities. The tool was developed by the DEI Advisory Committee, a diverse group of business leaders, policy experts, and disability advocates.

About Ameren Corporation

St. Louis-based Ameren Corporation powers the quality of life for 2.4 million electric customers and more than 900,000 natural gas customers in a 64,000-square-mile area through its Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois rate-regulated utility subsidiaries. Ameren Illinois provides electric transmission and distribution service and natural gas distribution service. Ameren Missouri provides electric generation, transmission and distribution services, as well as natural gas distribution service. Ameren Transmission Company of Illinois operates a rate-regulated electric transmission business in the Midcontinent Independent System Operator, Inc. For more information, visit Ameren.com, or follow us on Twitter at @AmerenCorp, Facebook.com/AmerenCorp, or LinkedIn.com/company/Ameren.

SOURCE Ameren Corporation

Related Links

http://www.ameren.com


In his new role, Manocha will be responsible for developing and driving the Association's global technology roadmap and agenda, including the introduction of new programs relating to infrastructure and security, online and digital strategy, business analysis and project management, as well as information systems and application development.

Manoch, who brings more than 20 years of technical expertise and innovation most recently served as Director of Applications for the Maryland Department of Human Services where he developed, deployed and implemented the public facing Total Human-services Integrated Network (MD THINK), a first-in-the-nation cloud-based platform that enables multiple state agencies to deliver integrated health and human services programs to the state's most vulnerable residents. Prior to working for the State of Maryland, Manocha led the technical services and operations, including large federal and commercial client portfolios involving telehealth and global managed service business lines, for Iron Bow Technologies.

"Raj is a hands-on leader who brings exceptional technical expertise and vast business acumen to the CTO position based on his leadership roles within global corporations, non-profit associations and state and federal organizations," says Michael T. Sheppard, Chief Executive Officer, CPA, CAE. "We are excited to welcome a senior leader of Raj's caliber to our team and look forward to his many contributions."

Manocha holds a Master of Science degree in Computer Science from the New Jersey Institute of Technology, a Bachelor of Engineering from the National Institute of Technology, as well as several information technology and business process certifications including Lean Six Sigma.

About the American Urological Association: Founded in 1902 and headquartered near Baltimore, Maryland, the American Urological Association is a leading advocate for the specialty of urology and has nearly 23,000 members throughout the world. The AUA is a premier urologic association, providing invaluable support to the urologic community as it pursues its mission of fostering the highest standards of urologic care through education, research and the formulation of health policy.

Media Contact:

Teri Arnold, Corporate Communications and Media Relations Manager

Cell: 757-272-7002, [email protected]

SOURCE American Urological Association

Related Links

www.auanet.org


ANCHORAGE, Alaska, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Arctic IT, a technology company serving Indian country since 2003, announces the release of Tribal Platforms 4.0, including five cloud-based applications designed to help tribes serve their communities with the most innovative and secure member-management and engagement technology.

Introducing Tribal Platforms 4.0 A suite of Tribal Applications

"We've taken the needs of our tribal communities and created secure cloud solutions specifically designed to secure and modernize their government operations," said Dave Bailey, President of Arctic IT. "With the power and security of Microsoft Dynamics 365, Arctic IT is proud to provide technology that culturally supports every aspect of modern community engagement."

Tribal Platforms 4.0 manages vital member data and serves as the foundation for expanding technology across a tribe. There are five applications developed under this software suite:

Enrollment - The base application for tribal enrollment management. Family Wellness - Outcomes-based Child & Family Services case management, program management, family-centered, graphical interface. Distribution Payments - Member payment and financial assistance management. Tribal Court - life cycle management with secure document management. Community Portal - Member self-service, 24-hour access to update personal data and apply for services.

The Tribal Platforms solution is delivered via a subscription Software as a Service (SaaS) model, so users are always on the latest version with regular, automatic software updates. Plus, the subscription includes unlimited support and maintenance for up to 20 users.

Why we built Tribal Platforms 4.0 on Microsoft Dynamics 365

Dynamics 365 gives tribes the security they want with the mobility they need to connect with their teams anytime, on any device. Tribal Platforms 4.0 is built on an evergreen platform for security and governance, harnessing the power of Microsoft Azure. Data is securely managed through multi-site data centers for inherent redundancy, providing tribal governments with the business continuity and security they need to serve their members better. Dynamics 365 is integrated with the Microsoft 365 Office applications (including Excel, Word, Outlook, etc.), further expanding the Tribal Platforms 4.0 software capabilities.

About Arctic IT

Arctic IT is an experienced technology company specializing in unique, scalable cloud-based business applications and security solutions. Since 2003, we've been committed to building strong relationships, driving innovation, and empowering the tribal communities and enterprises we serve.

As a Microsoft Gold Partner, we solve complex issues with leading-edge technology, including AI, Robotic Process Automation, and Machine Learning.

Ready to modernize your tribal operations? Run with us.

Contact: Mary Gasperlin, Director of Marketing 907.602.1003

Related Files

Tribal Platforms Flyer_Arctic IT_June 2021.pdf

Related Images

tribal-platforms-4-0.jpg

Tribal Platforms 4.0

A suite of Tribal Applications

Related Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SxDEZbQ5Sug



SOURCE Arctic IT
NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Ashcroft Capital , a fully integrated multifamily investment firm, today announced the addition of Bill Kay as managing director of capital markets. The hiring of Kay will support Ashcroft's continued emergence in the rental-housing sector as the company continues to acquire assets in its existing markets in the Sunbelt and seeks to enter new markets.

Kay will lead all capital markets activities at Ashcroft, with a focus on equity relationships with institutional investors such as real estate funds, endowments, foundations, major insurers, sovereign wealth funds, pensions and family offices. He will also actively participate in the investment and asset management processes across the company.

"With more than two decades of experience in private real estate and private equity, it was quickly apparent that Bill is the perfect fit to lead our institutional investor relations and fundraising efforts," said Frank Roessler, founder and chief executive officer of Ashcroft Capital. "He has a proven track record of helping to build world-class institutional investment management companies, and we could not be more excited about having his leadership, knowledge and experience as part of the Ashcroft team."

Prior to joining Ashcroft, Kay held senior leadership roles at Lubert-Adler Real Estate, Apollo Global Management, Morgan Stanley AIP and others. A Dartmouth College graduate with an MBA from The Fox School of Business and Management at Temple University, he has extensive global experience advising investors in tactical and strategic portfolio construction. His strategic acumen encompasses an extensive array of private strategies in fund, direct and co-investment formats.

"I'm thrilled to join the Ashcroft Capital team, which has established itself as a major player in the multifamily industry and is committed to aggressive but highly strategic growth," Kay said. "I am thoroughly impressed with the company's proven track record of creating value through the rebranding, renovating and repositioning of its acquired properties, as well as its history of delivering strong returns to investors and improving the resident experience. The company already has done an outstanding job of developing funding, and I'm eager to lend my expertise to help an on-the-rise company continue to thrive."

Since its inception, Ashcroft Capital has acquired more than 11,500 units totaling more than $1.3 billion in value. Until this year, the company's portfolio consisted of apartment communities in Jacksonville, Fla., Dallas-Fort Worth, Orlando, Fla., and Tampa, Fla. Ashcroft, which acquired just under $300 million of assets in 2020, recently entered the metro Atlanta market and is also seeking acquisition opportunities in the Charlotte, N.C., Raleigh-Durham, N.C., and Phoenix metros. Many of Ashcroft's 2021 investments have been purchased through the company's new $150 million Value Add Fund.

Birchstone Residential , Ashcroft Capital's in-house property management company, manages all of Ashcroft's owned multifamily communities. Birchstone was created to provide best-in-class service that attracts new residents, enriches the lifestyles of current residents and drives the operational performance of the Ashcroft portfolio, leading to targeted rates of return. Birchstone promotes a culture of authenticity, transparency and empowered associates.

About Ashcroft Capital

Founded in 2015, Ashcroft Capital has acquired over $1.3 billion of assets and more than 11,500 units. The firm focuses on capital preservation while striving to return strong, risk-adjusted cash-on-cash to investors. Ashcroft is capitalized with high net worth, family office and institutional capital. Within the real estate industry, Ashcroft specializes in value-add real estate and exhibits an expertise in extracting maximum value from every asset it acquires. Rather than attempting to play market timing, the firm strives to acquire excellent apartment communities within well-located submarkets of large and growing U.S. metroplexes.

Media Contact

Stephen Ursery

LinnellTaylor Marketing

[email protected]

303.682.3945

SOURCE Ashcroft Capital

Related Links

https://ashcroftcapital.com


STAMFORD, Conn., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Avesi Partners LLC ("Avesi"), a private equity firm based in Stamford, Connecticut, specializing in healthcare and business services, announced the final closing of its debut fund, Avesi Partners I LP (together with its related vehicles, the "Fund"), with $875 million of capital commitments.

The Fund was oversubscribed and closed above its original target of $650 million, just several months after launching. Avesi secured commitments from a globally diversified investor group, comprised of leading endowments, foundations, family offices, consultants, funds of funds, and seasoned CEOs and industry executives. "We are thrilled to have earned the trust and support of such an exceptional group of investors," commented Chris Laitala, Managing Partner of Avesi. "We look forward to partnering with talented families, founders and executives in targeted segments of the economy that are ripe for our transformational growth strategy."

Lazard Freres & Co. LLC served as the exclusive placement advisor to the Fund. Kirkland & Ellis, LLP served as legal counsel to the Fund.

About Avesi Partners

Avesi, with offices in Stamford, CT and Richmond, VA, focuses on partnering with lower-middle market privately-held and family-owned businesses in key sectors of the economy, including healthcare services and technology, and business services. Avesi seeks to provide the expertise and resources to empower businesses to attain their full vision in a time and capital efficient manner. The goal is to collaborate with families, founders and executives in an effort to accelerate growth and expansion, while positioning the businesses to achieve long-term success and enduring value. Target companies are typically expected to have approximately $10-30 million of EBITDA. Partners Chris Laitala, Chris Williams, and Peter Erickson, have significant experience in the private equity and finance industries.

Chris Laitala has over 20 years of private equity experience at various middle market firms, most significantly at H.I.G. Capital. Chris has a strong record of success leading middle market leveraged buyouts across various sectors including healthcare and business services.

Chris Williams has more than 30 years of experience in private equity and mergers & acquisitions ("M&A"). Prior to joining Avesi, Chris was a Partner at BDT & Company ("BDT"). Prior to BDT, Chris co-founded Harris Williams, one of the most prominent middle market M&A advisors, where he served as a Managing Director for nearly 25 years. Chris commented, "We are deeply committed to our investors, the companies we partner with, and our team of professionals at Avesi. Our performance is paired with values of integrity, teamwork, fairness, and excellence."

Peter Erickson has more than 20 years of experience focused on M&A in the health care and technology industries. Prior to Avesi, Peter spent 22 years at Triple Tree, an industry leading healthcare-focused investment bank that advises growth-oriented healthcare technology and services companies. Peter commented, "Investors have been extremely receptive to our approach. The industries we target are rapidly evolving and poised for success. We look forward to leveraging our deep domain expertise as we strive for exceptional results."

For more information, please visit www.avesipartners.com or www.linkedin.com/company/avesi-partners.

CONTACT:

Kim Baker

Kasari Consulting

[email protected]

SOURCE Avesi Partners
NEW YORK, July 13, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc. ("AWH" or the "Company") (CSE: AAWH.U) (OTCQX: AAWH), a multi-state, vertically integrated cannabis operator, announced that it has qualified to trade on the OTCQX Best Market.

Shares of Class A common stock of AWH will commence trading at the open on July 14th, under the new symbol "AAWH." U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the Company on www.otcmarkets.com.

"We are extremely proud to announce the commencement of trading on the OTCQX Best Market," said Abner Kurtin, CEO and Chairman of AWH. "We are excited to welcome a wider pool of retail and institutional shareholders throughout the United States the opportunity to participate in our success, which has been driven by our high-quality, strategically located vertically integrated operations and well-established flagship retail locations in high-traffic areas. We will continue to provide best-in-class disclosure, as we are the first US domiciled MSO to complete an SEC registered IPO with GAAP financials."

Information relating to the Company, including copies of the Company's financial statements, are available on the Company's website .

Recent Company Highlights

Edie Parker and AWH Announce Strategic Licensing Agreement to Bring Flower by Edie Parker Products to Illinois and Massachusetts . For more information click here .

and AWH Announce Strategic Licensing Agreement to Bring Flower by Edie Parker Products to and . For more information click . AWH announced Q1 2021 financial results. For more information click here .

. AWH Launched Its 6,000 Sq. Ft. Flagship New Jersey Medical-Use Cannabis Dispensary in Rochelle Park. For more information click here .

. AWH Completed Initial Public Offering. For more information click here .

About Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc.

AWH is a vertically integrated operator with assets and partners in Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. AWH owns and operates state-of-the-art cultivation facilities, growing award winning strains and producing a curated selection of products. AWH produces and distributes Ozone branded products. For more information, visit www.awholdings.com.

FINRA Form 211 Details

On 06/25/2021, FINRA processed a Form 211 relating to the initiation of priced quotations of AWWH, which means that the submitting broker-dealer has demonstrated to FINRA compliance with FINRA Rule 6432 and therefore has met the requirements under that rule to initiate a quotation for AWWH. FINRA's processing of a Form 211 in no way constitutes FINRA's approval of the security, the issuer, or the issuer's business and relates solely to the submitting broker-dealer's obligation to comply with FINRA Rule 6432 and SEA Rule 15c2-11 when quoting a security. Subsequently, AWH pursued a ticker symbol change and is now traded on the OTC under the tickerOTCQX: AAWH. Trading under the symbol AAWH will commence on July 14th.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes forward-looking information and statements, which may include, but are not limited to, information and statements regarding the plans, intentions, expectations, estimates, and beliefs of the Company. Words such as "expects", "continue", "will", "anticipates" and "intends" or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on the Company's current projections and expectations about future events and financial trends, and on certain assumptions and analysis made by the Company in light of experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors management believes are appropriate.

Forward-looking information and statements involve and are subject to assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause actual events, results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future events, results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking information and statements herein. Such factors include, among others: the risks and uncertainties identified in the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, and in the Company's other reports and filings with the applicable Canadian securities regulators and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Although the Company believes that any forward-looking information and statements herein are reasonable, in light of the use of assumptions and the significant risks and uncertainties inherent in such information and statements, there can be no assurance that any such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, and accordingly readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such risks and uncertainties and should not place undue reliance upon such forward-looking information and statements. Any forward-looking information and statements herein are made as of the date hereof, and except as required by applicable laws, the Company assumes no obligation and disclaims any intention to update or revise any forward-looking information and statements herein or to update the reasons that actual events or results could or do differ from those projected in any forward looking information and statements herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.

The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed, approved or disapproved the content of this news release.

SOURCE Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc.
The partnership complements BAI's recent win of the 20-year concession to deliver high-speed mobile coverage across the London Underground . In establishing a backbone of connectivity across London in the largest and most advanced infrastructure project of its type in the world, BAI will look to incorporate the results of its collaboration with Signify to advance the technology development in fibre and streetscape network deployment for this project.

BAI's partnership with Signify represents an innovation leap for both organisations as they begin working together to unlock the extraordinary potential of light through pioneering connectivity solutions that will revolutionise smart community advancement for municipalities and enterprise. This is another move in BAI's active pursuit to be a world leader in connected 5G infrastructure. This collaboration will concentrate on BAI's operations in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Hong Kong, and Australia ahead of exploring further opportunities across Europe.

Combining the specialised expertise of the two businesses boosts BAI's already extensive capability to support fixed and mobile operators and municipalities to realise the smart city opportunities that 5G services are offering. Collaboration outcomes will include co-creating connectivity solutions to circumvent the growing pressure on wireless communication due to increasing congestion on radio spectrum. This will unlock a broad range of operational and revenue improvement opportunities for BAI's customers.

BAI's Group Chief Executive Officer Igor Leprince said: "Importantly, this partnership supports our global ambitions and puts us in the perfect position to capitalise on the growing prioritisation of connected infrastructure. Signify's specific expertise in lighting and wireless technology matched with BAI's leadership in connected transit and infrastructure will enhance BAI's existing success providing neutral host services by augmenting its range of offerings as it pursues, and wins, significant opportunities.

"This opportunity to introduce new advanced network technology will accelerate BAI's innovation in 5G outdoor and indoor wireless infrastructure, small cell deployment, and communications infrastructure for dense and complex urban and transit environments. It brings together great synergies between the two organisations, enabling BAI to extend and diversify its innovative service offerings through a mutually beneficial collaboration process with Signify."

CEO Signify Eric Rondolat said: "This partnership marks an important milestone in our strategy to leverage the lighting infrastructure as a communications platform. We are excited to join forces with BAI and support the company in its mission to build the next generation of communications networks in London and other markets around the world. Our collaboration illustrates public lighting as the critical backbone for smart city transformation".



About BAI Communications

BAI Communications designs, builds, and operates cellular, Wi-Fi, broadcast, radio, and IP networks around the world. We are engineering experts and technology innovators with proven experience in delivering the next wave of connectivity solutions through long-term partnerships with broadcasters, transit operators, governments, and MNOs. As a leading communications infrastructure provider, BAI's neutral host solutions connect people, enrich communities and advance economies. Our global operations span Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, Hong Kong and the US, where we have a majority stake in Transit Wireless.

SOURCE BAI Communications
PANAMA CITY, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ --

Date and time:

Wednesday, July 28, 2021

11:00 a.m. Eastern Time

Presenting for Bladex:

Mr. Jorge Salas, Chief Executive Officer

Mrs. Ana Graciela de Mendez, Chief Financial Officer

To participate, please dial:

1-877-271-1828 (U.S. Participants)

1-334-323-9871 (From outside the U.S.)

Passcode: 32806397

This event will be webcast live at www.bladex.com

Bladex's Second Quarter and Half-Year 2021 Earnings Release will be announced on Wednesday, July 28, 2021 before the market opens and will be available on the Bank's corporate website, along with the webcast presentation.

About Bladex:

Bladex, a multinational bank originally established by the central banks of Latin-American and Caribbean countries, began operations in 1979 to promote foreign trade and economic integration in the Region. The Bank, headquartered in Panama, also has offices in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, the United States of America, and a Representative License in Peru, supporting the regional expansion and servicing of its customer base, which includes financial institutions and corporations.

Bladex is listed on the NYSE in the United States of America (NYSE: BLX), since 1992, and its shareholders include: central banks and state-owned banks and entities representing 23 Latin American countries, commercial banks and financial institutions, and institutional and retail investors through its public listing.

Contact Information:

Monica Cosulich

Senior Vice President

Finance and Investor Relations

E-mail address: [email protected]

Tel: +507 210-8563

SOURCE Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S.A. (Bladex)

Related Links

http://www.bladex.com


PHILADELPHIA, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Bartlett Bearing Company, Inc. announced today that it has completed a major refresh of their brand.

Bartlett Bearing was founded in 1951 to provide the highest quality service in bearing distribution for the electro-mechanical repair industry. Today, Bartlett has expanded to six locations and is proud to be an Authorized Distributor for major manufacturers. As the industry has evolved through the years, so has Bartlett and we are excited to share this next step in our brand's evolution with you.

"Our 70-year anniversary is a significant milestone and we're very happy to share this brand refresh with our customers and the industry," said Mike Pulley, National Sales Manager. "We're still the same Bartlett everyone knows as experts in the field; now we have a website and other brand assets that show it."

While our Bartlett Bearing logo will remain the same, the new branding reflects Bartlett's full scope of products and services, confirming our commitment to our customers. The newly redesigned website offers an easy-to-navigate menu, brand new product photos, and easier ways for customers to connect. New social media, email newsletter, and ad campaigns also mark the company's refreshed look.

Family has long been at the core of Bartlett Bearing and we are excited to showcase our brand's history more fully. What began as a small business in 1951 with Tom Bartlett selling bearings out of the trunk of his car has grown into the Bartlett Bearing we know today; still built on family values with the mission of delivering the best service and value to all of our customers, now with a look that puts us above the rest.

Visit www.bartlettbearing.com to explore the new website.

About Bartlett Bearing

Bartlett Bearing Company, Inc. is a family-owned and operated bearing distributor founded in 1951, specializing in serving the electro-mechanical repair industry nationwide. Bartlett has grown to six, fully stocked locations as Authorized Distributors for major manufacturers such as SKF, Timken, NTN, Koyo, The Schaeffler Group, and many more. With over 70 years of experience, our highly knowledgeable staff strives to provide the highest quality service for our customers 24/7/365. For more information, visit our website at www.bartlettbearing.com.

Media Contact:

Stephanie Ford

Marketing Manager

[email protected]

215-743-8963 Ext. 3209

SOURCE Bartlett Bearing Company, Inc.

Related Links

www.bartlettbearing.com


BOSTON and CHICAGO, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Beam Suntory and The Boston Beer Company have formed a long-term, strategic partnership to extend select iconic brands into some of the fastest-growing beverage alcohol segments. Through this partnership, Beam Suntory, a world leader in premium spirits, and Boston Beer, a pioneer in craft beer, initially plan to launch products that bring the Sauza tequila brand further into ready-to-drink beverages (RTDs), and Truly Hard Seltzer into bottled spirits.

The first new products resulting from this partnership will be available across consumer retail channels in the United States by mid-2022, with plans to expand across more key brands in the future.

"Our industry is rapidly evolving, and consumers are looking for new and exciting options that suit a wide variety of occasions, and we couldn't be happier to have found the perfect partner to extend our brands into the spirits category," said Dave Burwick, CEO of The Boston Beer Co. "Beam Suntory shares our pioneering, entrepreneurial spirit, and the obsession with delivering high-quality products. This unique, win-win collaboration opens a new frontier for our industry-leading Truly Hard Seltzer brand as we expand into bottled spirits and also allows us to bring a great tequila brand into our best-in-class wholesaler network."

Boston Beer's existing portfolio includes industry-leading brands such as Samuel Adams and Dogfish Head beer, Truly Hard Seltzer, Twisted Tea Hard Iced Tea, and Angry Orchard Hard Cider. As part of this partnership, the company plans to expand Truly Hard Seltzer, the fastest growing hard seltzer on the market, into bottled spirits and will benefit from Beam Suntory's distilling expertise and robust distribution network.

Already an RTD leader in Japan, Australia and Germany leveraging brands like Jim Beam, Canadian Club and -196, Beam Suntory is turbo-charging its fast-growing US RTD business, building on the acquisition of On The Rocks premium cocktails and launch of Hornitos seltzers and the Jim Beam Highball. As part of this collaboration, Beam Suntory's Sauza tequila brand, will expand into additional RTD formats by leveraging Boston Beer's expertise, production capabilities and distribution footprint.

"We are each tapping opportunities in adjacent categories by unleashing our shared creativity and respective distribution strengths in spaces that resonate with consumers," said Albert Baladi, Beam Suntory President & CEO. "We're expanding the reach of loved, iconic brands that have tremendous equity, credibility, and consumer loyalty. Beam Suntory and Boston Beer understand brand building, and as pioneers in premium spirits and craft beer, our combined possibilities are limitless."

About The Boston Beer Company:

The Boston Beer Company, Inc. (NYSE: SAM) began in 1984 brewing Samuel Adams beer and the Samuel Adams brand is currently recognized as one of the largest and most respected craft beer brands. Our portfolio of brands also includes Truly Hard Seltzer, Twisted Tea, Angry Orchard Hard Cider and Dogfish Head Brewery as well as other craft beer brands such as Angel City Brewery and Coney Island Brewing. For more information, please visit our investor relations website at www.bostonbeer.com, which includes links to all of our respective brand websites.

About Beam Suntory:

As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires human connections. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company's brands, including the iconic Jim Beam and Maker's Mark bourbon brands, Suntory whisky Kakubin and Courvoisier cognac, as well as world renowned premium brands including Knob Creek, Basil Hayden's and Legent bourbon; Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki and Toki Japanese whisky; Teacher's, Laphroaig and Bowmore Scotch whisky; Canadian Club whisky; Hornitos and Sauza tequila; EFFEN, Haku and Pinnacle vodka; Sipsmith and Roku gin; and On The Rocks Premium Cocktails.

Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit and vision of Growing for Good, which now includes its transformative sustainability strategy, Proof Positive. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com.

SOURCE The Boston Beer Company; Beam Suntory
Request a Free Sample Report to Know More

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the major market threats?

The pressure from substitutes and a high level of threat from new entrants have resulted in the moderate bargaining power of suppliers.



The pressure from substitutes and a high level of threat from new entrants have resulted in the moderate bargaining power of suppliers. What are the expected price changes in this market?

The Big Data Analytics Market is expected to have a CAGR of 12.00% during 2021-2025.



The Big Data Analytics Market is expected to have a CAGR of 12.00% during 2021-2025. Who are the top players in the market?

Accenture Plc, Infosys Ltd., Tata Consultancy Services Ltd., International Business Machines Corp., Capgemini Services SAS, HP Inc., HCL Technologies Limited, Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., DXC Technology Co., and Wipro Ltd., are some of the major market participants.



Accenture Plc, Infosys Ltd., Tata Consultancy Services Ltd., International Business Machines Corp., Capgemini Services SAS, HP Inc., HCL Technologies Limited, Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., DXC Technology Co., and Wipro Ltd., are some of the major market participants. What are the pricing models followed by buyers?

The subscription-based model and pay-as-you-go pricing model are the widely adopted pricing models in Big Data Analytics Market.

SpendEdge suggests three forecast scenarios (optimistic, probable, and pessimistic) considering the impact of COVID-19. SpendEdge's in-depth research has direct and indirect COVID-19 impacted market research reports.

Request for a FREE sample to access the definite purchasing guide on Big Data Analytics procurement.

Related Reports on Information Technology Include:

Security Software - Forecast and Analysis : The security software will grow at a CAGR of 8.60% during 2021-2025. The pressure from substitutes and a moderate level of threat from new entrants has resulted in the moderate bargaining power of suppliers. This makes it extremely important to get the pricing and pricing model right.



The security software will grow at a during 2021-2025. The pressure from substitutes and a moderate level of threat from new entrants has resulted in the moderate bargaining power of suppliers. This makes it extremely important to get the pricing and pricing model right. Experiential Marketing Sourcing and Procurement Report : The experiential marketing services prices will increase by 4%-8% during the forecast period and suppliers will have a moderate bargaining power in this market..



The experiential marketing services prices will and suppliers will have a moderate bargaining power in this market.. Big Data Analytics- Sourcing and Procurement Intelligence Report: This report evaluates suppliers based on technological expertise, industry expertise, data security measures being implemented by suppliers, and financial stability.

To access the definite purchasing guide on the Big Data Analytics that answers all your key questions on price trends and analysis:

Am I paying/getting the right prices? Is my Big Data Analytics TCO (total cost of ownership) favorable?

How is the price forecast expected to change? What is driving the current and future price changes?

Which pricing models offer the most rewarding opportunities?

Table of Content

Executive Summary

Market Insights

Category Pricing Insights

Cost-saving Opportunities

Best Practices

Category Ecosystem

Category Management Strategy

Category Management Enablers

Suppliers Selection

Suppliers under Coverage

US Market Insights

Category scope

Appendix

About SpendEdge:

SpendEdge shares your passion for driving sourcing and procurement excellence. We are the preferred procurement market intelligence partner for 120+ Fortune 500 firms and other leading companies across numerous industries. Our strength lies in delivering robust, real-time procurement market intelligence reports and solutions.

To know more: https://www.spendedge.com/request-for-demo

Contacts

SpendEdge

Anirban Choudhury

Marketing Manager

Ph No: +1 (872) 206-9340

https://www.spendedge.com/contact-us

SOURCE SpendEdge
"With the reopening of this breathtaking destination it's important we provide our customers every opportunity to travel again," said Nicholas Panza, Vice President, the Americas for Air Tahiti Nui. "Uplift's Buy Now, Pay Later Payment offering provides flexible monthly installments and is a huge benefit to our customers making a dream vacation a reality."

Air Tahiti Nui was founded to connect the world to one of its greatest treasures, the Islands of Tahiti. Air Tahiti Nui, offers flights and vacations packages for families, honeymooners, and scenic Cruise excursions through Pleasant Holidays, also a partner offering BNPL with Uplift. Travelers can visit the many beautiful Islands of Tahiti to experience exclusive overwater bungalows and magnificent resorts in Bora Bora, Moorea and smaller boutique properties to be found in places such as Ta'haa, Rangiroa and Tikehau.

"As vaccinations grow and international travel begins to ramp up, we are delighted to partner with Air Tahiti Nui offering customers an affordable way to travel and generating life long memories such as a dream Tahitian vacation," said Brian Barth, CEO of Uplift. "Air Tahiti Nui will join a growing list of Uplift's airline partners, who are at the forefront of the rebound of travel."

Air Tahiti Nui connects the Northern Hemisphere from many cities such as Paris, Los Angeles, Tokyo  to the most popular places in Oceania; French Polynesia, Australia, and New Zealand. Air Tahiti Nui offers flights to destinations in 9 countries.

Air Tahiti Nui customers will find Uplift's flexible payment options on the Air Tahiti Nui website and the Air Tahiti mobile app. By using Uplift as a Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) payment option, consumers can book their dream vacation when they are ready and spread the cost of the trip over affordable monthly payments, rather than paying in full up front.

Uplift is seamlessly integrated into the Air Tahiti Nui booking process, allowing customers to see the total cost of their trip along with the monthly payment amount. Simple monthly payments also allow customers to see how an upgraded travel experience with Moana Premium or Poerava Business class can be more accessible with just a few extra dollars per month in 6 or 11 monthly payments.

For example, instead of paying $1,000 upfront for a trip, customers can book their trip today, and spread the cost over 11 monthly payments of $93.19 each.

Uplift partners with 200+ of the world's leading airlines, cruise lines, resorts and other major travel brands to offer BNPL payment options to help more consumers make meaningful purchases and experience the travel that they deserve.

Uplift's Buy Now, Pay Later flexible payment options are now available for booking on Air Tahiti Nui .

About Air Tahiti Nui

With award winning service Air Tahiti Nui, takes special care and pride in the well-being of its customers, from boarding to arrival. Air Tahiti Nui constantly offers high quality products and services on board its aircraft, coupled with a warm welcome, unique Polynesian hospitality and great comfort for passengers.

About Uplift

Uplift is the leading Buy Now Pay Later solution that empowers people to get more out of life, one thoughtful purchase at a time. Serving the world's top enterprise level travel brands, Uplift's complete range of flexible payment options drive higher conversion and loyalty for partners, while giving customers a simple, surprise-free way to pay overtime with no late or early payment fees. Uplift is currently available throughout the United States and Canada. To learn more, visit Uplift.com .

SOURCE Uplift
California Pastor puts faith in media with launch of American Faith, news media network to combat censorship. Tweet this

The American Faith platform focuses on news relating to politics, business, health, and faith. It incorporates a vast array of original content including video interviews and podcasts featuring well-known media personalities as part of shows hosted weekly, including:

Reality Check with Melissa Tate

Melissa Tate is a Christian, political commentator, and author of "Choice Privilege: What's Race Got To Do With It?" Reality Check will explore the social, cultural and political issues that are plaguing American society today. The show will discuss solutions and encourage everyday people to find ways in which they can make a difference.

American Outlook with William Federer

William Federer is a nationally recognized historian, best-selling author, and president of Amerisearch, a publishing company dedicated to researching America's noble heritage. Federer's show connects the dots between America's past, present, and future.

America's War Room with Phil Hotsenpiller

Phil Hotsenpiller will expose the real drivers behind current events and core societal issues through his unscripted talk-show with cultural and political leaders.

"American Faith is an important, and vitally needed, voice in our increasingly secular culture," said Ken Starr, lawyer, former U.S. solicitor general and federal judge, author and former president of Baylor University. "As the old saying goes, this is 'news that you can trust.' Everyone  especially people of faith who care about our country and its future should join the rapidly-growing family of grateful American Faith subscribers."

In addition to the launch of the American Faith news platform, Hotsenpiller is partnering with notable government and industry leadersworking to revitalize and nurture American values through local, state, and national campaigns promoting constitutional rights and freedoms.

American Faith will host Clay Clark's ReAwaken America Tour , July 17-18 at Influence Church in Anaheim, Calif. Attendees will learn practical steps to fight back to protect American freedoms. Keynote speakers include General Flynn, former United States National Security Advisor; Larry Elder, American radio host and best-selling author; and Robert Kennedy Jr., author, environmental lawyer and Board Chair for the Children's Health Defense, among others.

"We live in a world where the government has put restrictions on how people worship and bible verses are being deemed 'offensive content' by big tech," said Sean Feucht, artist, activist, and the founder of LetUsWorship.us. "It is time for the church to stand together and fight for our unalienable rights under the constitution. With American Faith the church will gain a biblical perspective on current events and have a united frontline battling the impeding threat on our liberties."

Subscribe to American Faith's daily newsletter at https://americanfaith.com/subscribe and follow @AmericanFaithMedia on all social media platforms.

About American Faith

Committed to advancing the cause of truth and freedom, American Faith is a non-profit news media network that provides breaking news, analysis, and opinion on current events. Grounded in a love of country, a passion for freedom and a heart of faith, American Faith is the news outlet of We the People. For more information, please visit https://AmericanFaith.com .

About Pastor Phil Hotsenpiller

Phil Hotsenpiller is the Founder and President of American Faith and the Senior Pastor of Influence Church. He is a Biblical Prophecy Expert, Cultural Thought Leader, and a Passionate Patriot. Phil earned a Bachelor of Arts, a Master of Divinity, and conducted postgraduate studies at Oxford University. He has published ten books, including the highly acclaimed "One Nation without Law." Phil has conducted interviews with various media outlets, including The Washington Post, USA Today, Fox News, CNN, The Christian Post, The History Channel, The Telegraph.

SOURCE American Faith

Related Links

www.americanfaith.com


HOUSTON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Callon Petroleum Company (NYSE: CPE) plans to host a conference call to discuss its second quarter 2021 financial and operating results.

Webcast:

Date: August 4th, 2021 Time: 8:00 a.m. Central Time (9:00 a.m. Eastern Time)





Webcast: www.callon.com



Select "News and Events" under the "Investors" section of the website.



An archive of the conference call webcast will be available at www.callon.com under the "Investors" section of the website.

The Company plans to release second quarter 2021 results after market close on Tuesday, August 3rd, 2021.

About Callon Petroleum Company

Callon Petroleum is an independent oil and natural gas company focused on the acquisition, exploration and development of high-quality assets in the leading oil plays of South and West Texas.

Contact Information

Mark Brewer

Director of Investor Relations

Callon Petroleum Company

[email protected]

(281) 589-5200

SOURCE Callon Petroleum Company

Related Links

www.callon.com


RENO, N.V., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Canyon Partners Real Estate LLC ("Canyon") today announced its joint venture with GMH Communities ("GMH") and CRG for the ground-up development of a 755-bed student housing project located at the University of Nevada, Reno ("UNR"). Canyon is investing $36.2 million of equity in this development, which is located in a Qualified Opportunity Zone. The project will commence construction immediately and is expected to achieve completion in time for the start of the 2023 school year. The joint venture also simultaneously closed on a $75.2 million senior construction loan from Citizens and Nevada State Bank.

The project is located at the intersection of North Virginia Street and 15th Street, directly across from UNR's main entrance at the center of campus. The 12-story development will be the first high-rise student housing development in the Reno area, offering expansive views of campus, downtown Reno and the Truckee Meadows and its surrounding mountain ranges. The project is planning to obtain a LEED Silver certification and will include a combination of floor plan options, from one- to five-bedrooms, as well as numerous student-focused amenities.

"Academy at Reno fits in seamlessly with GMH's growing portfolio of first-class student living communities that are designed with students' unique lifestyles in mind," says Steve Behrle, Executive Vice President of Development with GMH Communities. "We're proud to partner with Canyon and CRG as we begin development on this exciting high-rise that will soon provide students at The University of Nevada, Reno with the perfect home-away-from-home while they focus on their academic endeavors."

"We're thrilled to team with both Canyon and GMH, one of the original pioneers of student housing, to bring this best-in-class property to the students of University of Nevada, Reno," said J.J. Smith, CRG's Managing Partner and Residential Group Leader. "I've long respected the GMH and Canyon teams, and given that CRG has considerable experience in this market, this partnership was a logical one. As the market's first high-rise, Academy at Reno will stand out from its competitors with an unmatched amenity package featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and commanding views of the mountains and campus."

This project marks Canyon's ninth joint venture equity investment in Qualified Opportunity Zones, capitalizing over $700 million of real estate development projects. The project was designed by Humphreys & Partners Architects and Clayco will serve as general contractor.

About Canyon Partners Real Estate LLC

Founded in 1991, Canyon Partners Real Estate LLC ("Canyon") is the real estate direct investing arm of Canyon Partners, LLC, a global alternative asset manager with over $27 billion in assets under management. Over the last ten years, Canyon has invested approximately $5.6 billion of debt and equity capital across over 200 transactions capitalizing approximately $15.3 billion of real estate assets, focusing on debt, value add, and opportunistic strategies. With 29 years of experience, Canyon has established a broad menu of investment capabilities spanning property types, US regions, and project stages (including development, transitional, and distressed/workouts). For more information visit: www.canyonpartners.com

About GMH Communities

Headquartered in Newtown Square, PA, GMH Communities is a dynamic, privately-held real estate company specializing in the acquisition, development and management of exceptional living communities throughout the United States. Since 1985, GMH has participated in over 300 transactions representing more than $8 billion of gross asset value across all major property types. For more information, visit www.gmhcommunities.com.

About CRG

CRG is a privately held real estate development firm that has developed more than 9,000 acres of land and delivered over 200 million square feet of commercial, industrial, institutional and multifamily assets exceeding $12 billion in value. CRG leverages a powerful North American platform with local market expertise and offices in Atlanta, Chicago, St. Louis, Southern California, Phoenix and Philadelphia. CRG's philosophy of developing for the future and anticipating the enhanced needs of next generation users led to the creation of its industrial brand, The Cubes, and its multifamily brand, Chapter. For more information, visit CRG's website at www.realcrg.com.

Media contacts:

Canyon Partners Real Estate:

Kris Cole

Prosek Partners

310.614.9208

[email protected]

GMH Communities:

Britni Ackrivo

Gregory FCA

484.504.9920

[email protected]

CRG:

Glenn LaFollette

312.216.5684

[email protected]

SOURCE Canyon Partners LLC
"Sean brings more than 25 years of forward-thinking, entrepreneurial leadership, nimble innovation, and analytic process development to Catalina, as well as a demonstrated commitment to developing people, differentiating business strategies, and sustaining customer prosperity," said Powers. "Sean believes that data is only useful if it is helping drive effective decisions, and his primary focus will be on partnering cross-functionally to leverage our unparalleled shopper intelligence to help our customers do just that."

While at Vericast, Murphy led the Data Science, Marketing Science and Business Analytics teams, launching a new Insight Consulting Team to expand the company's sales and service strategy. He also led the integration of three organizations representing $1.8B in revenue, scaling the company's analytics and insight processes to launch five new products across six vertical markets.

Murphy has also held a series of senior leadership roles for Vendavo, Inc., culminating with his role as VP of Pricing Science, leading the team leveraging pricing data to help businesses drive critical decisions impacting top-line margin. Before that he spent several years as a marketing and product strategy executive for technology companies in and around Silicon Valley, including Peoplesoft, and Ask Jeeves (now Ask.com), where, in the early days of the search business, his team created search data-based solutions for customers.

"The opportunity to join a leading market innovator like Catalina, and head a global team of some of the world's premier data & analytics experts to drive business for many leading and emerging CPG brands and retailers, was simply too great to pass up," said Murphy.

After earning both a B.S. and an M.S. in Industrial Engineering from Stanford University, Murphy received a Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School. He is also a patent holder and a former international world-class swimmer, NCAA champion, Olympian, and Masters World Record Holder.

About Catalina

Catalina is a leader in shopper intelligence and highly targeted in-store, TV, radio and digital media that personalizes the shopper journey. Powered by the world's richest real-time shopper database, Catalina helps CPG brands, retailers and agencies optimize every stage of media planning, execution and measurement to deliver $6.1 billion in consumer value annually. Catalina has no higher priority than ensuring the privacy and security of the data entrusted to the company and maintaining consumer trust. Catalina has operations in the United States, Costa Rica, Europe and Japan. To learn more, please visit www.catalina.com or follow us on Twitter @Catalina.

SOURCE Catalina

Related Links

http://www.catalina.com


Opened in March, the manufacturing portion of the new, state-of-the-art headquarters was built to Cherne's exacting specifications by the OPUS Group, as management sought to more fully integrate all its operations under one roof. Shakopee combines automated robotic manufacturing pneumatic pipe plugs, mechanical pipe plugs and testing equipment with a new research and development laboratory for product testing, extensive customer training facilities, and an in-house machine shop for making all the needed tooling on premises, rather than depending upon outside sources.

In addition, the new building contains ample storage space for raw materials and finished product, so that Cherne no longer relies on outside warehousing for storage and shipping. The resulting, more efficient material flows have already cut lead times and increased operating efficiencies since the move.

"Cherne has been growing at a double-digit pace for the past seven years," says General Manager and seven-year company veteran David Biron, explaining why the former, 66,000-square-foot facility in nearby Edina was no longer suitable. "We had acquired some robotic equipment and other automation components in recent years, but as the business grew, we simply ran out of space.

"The R&D and testing operations demonstrate Cherne's newly fortified capabilities as we maintain world class, industry-leading new-product development that provide the safest, most productive value-added solutions for our end users," Biron continues. Cherne can now test its entire production on premises, instead of relying on outside facilities, as had sometimes been the case in the past.

"The old building did not offer a setting large enough  and therefore safe enough  to test larger plugs and testing equipment, which expand up to 120 inches," says Biron. "No other plug maker can offer as comprehensive or as safe a testing facility as what we've built in Shakopee."

The new training facilities are a significant upgrade as well. Shakopee sits over a specially installed, underground network of 24-inch and 12-inch pipes that are 300-feet long and accessible through two manholes.

All of it is contained inside the building to simulate an actual job site. Visiting customers enjoy a hands-on learning experience, installing actual plugs and testing a simulated pipeline, notes Biron: "We can install and remove plugs and testing equipment, create leaks and allow trainees to test, locate and repair them  just as they would in the field."

Robotics = safer, longer-lasting plugs: The most impactful upgrade with the new Shakopee operation is the inclusion of a pair of automated robots for producing Cherne's industry-first and industry-leading offering of pneumatic plugs. The robotic technology creates a mechanical bond to more securely join the plug's aluminum end plate to its premium natural-rubber core.

The result is more precise and consistent fabrication, from plug to plug, minimizing field failures sometimes found with the manual, chemical-bonding connection process long used by other manufacturers. Cherne's robotic-made plugs are a significant industry advancement, offering best-in-class safety, durability, and premium performance.

"No other North American manufacturer is building plugs with one robot, let alone two," says Biron. "Other producers still assemble them by hand, as they have been for decades. This entire facility demonstrates the enduring strength of the Cherne brand and why a customer can be comfortable buying and installing plugs and related piping products from us."

Rapid turnaround: Until this past March, every plug sold by Cherne over the past five decades and more had been made in the company's former Edina facility, erected by founder Lloyd Cherne in 1970. (Oatey Co. bought Cherne in 1990.) So, it may seem surprising that the relocation to Shakopee required only seven days, as Biron reports, with the new plant successfully running 70 percent of the company's catalog by the end of that first week.

Biron expects to employ 130 personnel, a gain of approximately 20 over Edina. Among the reasons Cherne chose to move to Shakopee was to tap its "wide cross-section of qualified workers" to fill the diversified roster of skilled technical positions needed to operate and maintain Cherne's large, automated equipment at a high level.

"We drew it all up on a napkin two years ago," recalls Biron, "and spent another 18 months meticulously planning the move down to the smallest detail. It was unbelievable how our team came together, and it could not have gone any more smoothly  even with all of our large pieces of equipment and despite the pandemic. In a year when everything seemed to go wrong, this move and its aftermath have gone exceptionally right."

Some key partners that were critical to making the move go as well as it did were Cullinan Rigging and Erecting, OlympiaTech Electric, Voson Plumbing and Allen Mechanical. "Without their attention to detail and customer focus," says Biron, "this move wouldn't have been successful."

To learn more about careers and opportunities available at Cherne Industries, visit oatey.com/careers.

About Cherne Industries

Part of the Oatey family of brands, Cherne was acquired by Oatey Co. in 1990. Cherne offers pneumatic and mechanical plugs, deflection gauges, testing equipment, tools and accessories for residential, commercial, industrial and municipal piping systems  all of it made at its new headquarters manufacturing facility in Shakopee, MN. Available in Oatey Company distribution centers throughout North America and through partner distribution on every continent, Cherne products are relied upon by residential and commercial contractors, as well as industrial and municipal engineers, worldwide. Learn more about Cherne at www.cherneind.com or on LinkedIn.

About Oatey Co.

Since 1916, Oatey has provided reliable, high-quality products for the residential and commercial plumbing industries, with a commitment to delivering quality, building trust and improving lives. Today, Oatey operates a comprehensive manufacturing and distribution network to supply thousands of products for professional builders, contractors, engineers and do-it-yourself consumers around the world.

Oatey is based in Cleveland, Ohio, and has locations in the United States, Canada, Mexico and China. For more information, visit www.oatey.com, call (800) 321-9532 or follow Oatey on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram.

SOURCE Cherne Industries
EL SEGUNDO, Calif., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Summer 2021 was mermaid for reunions! After a year filled with social distancing, everyone is gearing up to reconnect with family and friends, and picnic get-togethers, filled with delicious food, will be one of the most popular ways to reunite with loved ones when you're ready for those long-overdue laughs. To help plan the perfect outdoor celebration or backyard BBQ just in time for Family Reunion Month, Chicken of the Sea is celebrating by giving away $10,000 in Reunion Grants.

Chicken of the Sea is Giving Away $10,000 Help Fans Plan the Perfect Picnic and Reconnect with Loved Ones Tweet this Chicken of the Sea Avocado Tuna Salad

Starting July 15 fans can enter for their chance to win one of twenty $500 grants to help make sure this year's outdoor gatherings are the most memorable yet for family and friends. Fans can visit www.chickenofthesea.com/reuniongrants to learn more and enter for their chance to win*. Entries close August 15.

"Chicken of the Sea wants to help make reunion planning a breeze so that you can focus less on preparations and more on reconnecting with loved ones after so much time apart," said Andrew Thomas, Chicken of the Sea Vice President of Marketing. "Any great celebration calls for great food. Whether you're enjoying one of Chicken of the Sea's many picnic-friendly options like wild-caught tuna, salmon, or sardines on their own or incorporating them into your favorite recipes, you know you'll be enjoying a high-quality product worthy of the occasion  and worthy of your company!"

To ensure planning is hassle-free, Chicken of the Sea has also created a digital picnic toolkit to make hosting that much easier and more enjoyable. Check out https://chickenofthesea.com/fresh-ideas/tips-for-how-to-host-the-perfect-picnic-reunion for more inspiration on how to host the best picnic reunion this summer, including recipe ideas using this summer's favorite proteins, Chicken of the Sea Chunk Light Tuna and Pink Salmon, fun activities for the whole family and the below tips for how to host a memorable picnic reunion:

Reach for Pantry Staples to Pack Your Basket: When it comes to planning your menu and packing your cooler, don't stress! You likely already have the makings of delicious meals and snacks on-hand. For example, canned fruits, vegetables, and proteins  like Chicken of the Sea wild-caught tuna, salmon, and sardines  can help you create and elevate your picnic recipes. So, before you make an extra trip to your local Farmers Market or grocery store, check your pantry!

When it comes to planning your menu and packing your cooler, don't stress! You likely already have the makings of delicious meals and snacks on-hand. For example, canned fruits, vegetables, and proteins  like Chicken of the Sea wild-caught tuna, salmon, and sardines  can help you create and elevate your picnic recipes. So, before you make an extra trip to your local Farmers Market or grocery store, check your pantry! No Grill? No Problem! : As more people seek out substitutes for red meat, change up your picnic menu this season by serving up seafood as a delicious alternative! For example, Tuna Salad Sandwiches made with Chicken of the Sea wild-caught tuna are a versatile choice that can be customized to your liking  whether you use mayo, olive oil or even Greek yogurt  and since there's no cooking required, you can easily prep ahead of time or even on-site! Here are a few more picnic-perfect recipes:

: As more people seek out substitutes for red meat, change up your picnic menu this season by serving up seafood as a delicious alternative! For example, Tuna Salad Sandwiches made with Chicken of the Sea wild-caught tuna are a versatile choice that can be customized to your liking  whether you use mayo, olive oil or even Greek yogurt  and since there's no cooking required, you can easily prep ahead of time or even on-site! Here are a few more picnic-perfect recipes: Mediterranean Tuna Sandwich



Avocado Tuna Salad



Lemon Pepper Salmon Mixed Vegetable Sandwich

Host an Eco-Friendly Picnic: Good food and good weather help make a successful picnic, but ensuring you leave your space just as you found it is equally as important. To minimize waste, invest in reusable picnicware, like utensils and plates. You can also consider swapping your paper napkins with cloth versions. Not only are they more environmentally friendly, but they'll also elevate the overall look of your picnic!

For more information on Chicken of the Sea, including recipes, meal-planning insights, serving suggestions and nutritional information, as well as information on the latest new Chicken of the Sea products, go to www.chickenofthesea.com. Follow the Mermaid on Facebook, Twitter and on Instagram.

*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open only to legal residents of 50 US/DC, 18+. Void where prohibited. Starts 12:00 AM ET on 7/15/21 and ends 11:59 PM ET on 8/15/21. The Chicken Of The Sea Reunion Grants Program is sponsored by Chicken of the Sea International. See Official Rules at: https://chickenofthesea.com/reuniongrants/rules

About Chicken of the Sea International

Founded in 1914, Chicken of the Sea International (COSI) is a leading provider of healthy, delicious and responsibly sourced seafood, offering not only a robust product line but the recipes and meal-planning insights needed to inspire seafood lovers to greater culinary creativity. The company provides tuna, salmon, clams, crab, oysters, shrimp, mackerel, kipper snacks and sardines in cans, cups and pouches as well as innovative new products consistent with seafood's growing status as a healthy "new" protein choice in America.

Headquartered in El Segundo, Calif., COS uses responsible fishing practices to source its seafood products from around the world, and packages them at a state-of-the-art processing facility in Lyons, Georgia, as well as at third-party facilities. The company is led by a team of industry veterans with more than 300 years of collective experience in the packaged seafood industry.

Media Contact: Casey Carty, HUNTER, [email protected]

SOURCE Chicken of the Sea International
BEIJING, July 14, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- China International Capital Corporation Limited (CICC, 3908.HK, 601995.SH) held the Investment and Financing Theme Forum at the 2021 World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, during which it published a research report, Achieving Carbon Neutrality amid Thriving AI. CICC Research's Technology Group has joined together with multiple sector research teams to complete this in-depth analysis covering potential scenarios for AI-enabled carbon emission reduction. The report demonstrates the practical effects and the evolutionary trends of AI in terms of improving efficiency, saving energy, as well as reducing emissions consumption. Peng Hu, Chief Analyst of CICC's Technology Hardware Group, delivered a keynote speech to the conference, analyzing how AI can help achieve carbon neutrality, as well as the investment opportunities in the technology industry, for example, AI-enabled cities, AI-enabled vehicles, AI-enabled smart manufacturing, and AI-enabled power.

Carbon neutrality, an important application for AI

After the 21st United Nations Climate Change Conference, the achievement of carbon neutrality has become a global goal. As of the end of 2020, 44 countries and regions around the world made commitments on carbon neutrality. China also announced that it would achieve peak carbon levels by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060.

CICC believes that the key to achieving carbon neutrality lies in the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions per unit of GDP, which puts pressure on areas such as energy, transportation, manufacturing and urban construction planning in the context of China's rapid economic growth. AI is expected to promote efficiency and consumption reduction in a number of different areas and help achieve the goal of carbon neutrality. Peng explains that AI can help in three ways: prediction, monitoring and optimization.

AI helps carbon neutrality in four major areas

In Peng's view, AI could help achieve the goal of carbon neutrality in the four fields, namely cities, smart manufacturing, vehicles and power.

City planning - AI could be used to dynamically predict urban development, improve the structure of cities, and ease problems related to long-distance commuting.

Smart manufacturing - AI could help cut production costs and improve the efficiency.

Vehicles - AI will drive the transformation of the traditional automotive industry, improve the consumer experience in the fields of self-driving and intelligent logistics, as well as reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions.

Power, AI will play an important role in the digitalization of the power grid, improve overall energy supply efficiency of the power system, and achieve the effect of reducing carbon emissions.

Investment opportunities in the science and technology industries against the backdrop of carbon neutrality

ESG investing has become a global trend. Peng believes that the ESG investment philosophy will prompt listed companies to pay more attention to the control of carbon emissions. Over the long term, companies with higher ESG level will achieve better operation results and more sustainable returns, which creates new investment opportunities. Peng points out that AI should also be filled with "humanistic care", which is not only a technical term that means increase efficiency and profits, but also plays a greater role in improving the living environment, creating social welfare and enhancing human well-being.

Peng suggests to focus the investment opportunities in the following 10 areas amid AI-enabled carbon neutrality: 1) smart power grids; 2) drones for civilian use; 3) mobile robots; 4) industrial internet platforms; 5) machine vision; 6) smart cities; 7) cloud computing; 8) AI chips; 9) intelligent driving; and 10) sensors. According to the CICC's forecast, the increase of the market size of these 10 areas is around RMB 2 trillion in China over the next decade (20212030).

To read the full research report, click here: https://en.cicc.com/api/upload/uploadService/dowloadEx?fileId=24884&tenantId=123890

China International Capital Corporation Limited (CICC):

China International Capital Corporation Limited (CICC, 03908.HK601995.SH) is a top tier investment bank, founded in China in 1995, providing first-class financial services to corporates, institutions and individuals worldwide. As the first international joint-venture investment bank in China, CICC plays a unique role to support China's economic reforms and liberalization through providing comprehensive one-stop domestic, overseas, and cross-border financial services including investment banking, equities, FICC, asset management, private equity investment, wealth management and research. Headquartered in Beijing, CICC has over 200 branches in Mainland China and offices in Hong Kong, Singapore, New York, London, San Francisco, Frankfurt and Tokyo. For more information about CICC, please visit www.cicc.com

SOURCE China International Capital Corporation Limited
Key research findings:

Vaccine acceptance continues to improve  steady increase in vaccine acceptance, 69% up from 63% in three months

Urgency has increased  those waiting to get a vaccination until more people have had their first one dropped 8% in three months, from 50% to 42%

Vaccination a possibility for most  just 9% of unvaccinated respondents say nothing can persuade them to receive the vaccine

HONG KONG, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A sense of community spirit and duty to society are core to the success of global vaccination programs, according to a report published today by Cigna's International Markets business. The third edition of the COVID-19 Vaccine Perception Study shows collective responsibility is the main reason people reported as the motivation to get vaccinated. The study also revealed a positive shift in vaccination rates among respondents, which increased from 25% in April to 31% in May, complementing the growing willingness to get vaccinated, up from 63% in March to 69% in May.

The research shows vaccine hesitancy, or a "wait and see" approach to vaccination, has dropped significantly over the past three months. The first wave of research in March showed 50% of respondents waiting to get a vaccine. This reduced by 3% in April and an additional 5% in May, showing a growing confidence in vaccines.

The study surveyed more than 13,000 people across 11 markets and aims to highlight perceptions and attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccines around the world.

Vaccination programs make rapid progress in several markets

The research shows vaccination programs continue to make rapid progress. In just one month, vaccination rates amongst respondents increased from 25% to 31%, and the markets with the highest rates continue to be the UK (68% up from 60%), UAE (62% up from 58%) and USA (57% up from 49%). In other markets, there has been a dramatic increase over the past month, including in Singapore, a 13% increase (29% to 42%) and Spain, a 12% increase (16% to 28%). Mainland China saw an 11% increase (30% up to 41%) and has now administered over 1.2 billion shots.

Jason Sadler, president, Cigna International Markets said: "The findings from our third COVID-19 Vaccine Perception Study highlight some incredible progress in global vaccination programs. However, the study underlines the importance of continued support and encouragement for vaccination programs to help build confidence in those yet to receive vaccinations and to ultimately achieve herd immunity. Cigna has been consistent in our support of vaccinations, which we believe is the best way to address the challenge of COVID-19 as a global community."

He added: "We encourage people to seek trustworthy sources of information about vaccines, such as updates from your local health authority, and to request a vaccination."

Notable difference in attitudes between vaccinated and unvaccinated

The largest gulf in opinion between those who have been vaccinated and those who have not, relates to perceptions about vaccine safety. Although both vaccinated and unvaccinated people had similar levels of anxiety around contracting COVID-19 (54% and 57% respectively) and transmitting it to others (73% versus 75%), perceived risks of side effects and safety, as well as a lack of access, are slowing vaccine uptake. Globally, 9% of those yet to receive a vaccine were adamant that nothing could persuade them to take the COVID-19 vaccine.

Government bodies most trusted source of information

Across all markets and all generations, the findings show the two most trusted sources for vaccine information continue to be government bodies and doctors. Vaccinated respondents are more likely to trust information from government bodies (73% vs. 63% respectively), doctors (66% vs. 57%) and private healthcare insurance providers (43% vs. 38%), compared to unvaccinated respondents. In contrast, unvaccinated people are more likely to trust information from TV news, friends and family and social media than those who have been vaccinated. The findings continue to show that despite the perception that social media would have a widespread negative influence, only 5% of people chose social media as their most trusted source of information on COVID-19 vaccines.

Download the report

Click here to download the full COVID-19 Vaccine Perception Study Report  3rd edition

Click here to download the full COVID-19 Vaccine Perception Study Report  2nd edition

Click here to download the full COVID-19 Vaccine Perception Study Report  1st edition

Research methodology:

Cigna partnered with You Gov, the international research data and analytics group, who engaged with 13,092 respondents between 12th and 20th May 2021. The respondents were a representative sample aged 18 or over, 52% male and 48% female, from across 11 markets: Mainland China, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, UAE, UK and US.

About Cigna

Cigna Corporation (NYSE: CI) is a global health service company dedicated to improving the health, well-being and peace of mind of those we serve. Cigna delivers choice, predictability, affordability and access to quality care through integrated capabilities and connected, personalized solutions that advance whole person health. All products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of Cigna Corporation, Evernorth companies or their affiliates, and Express Scripts companies or their affiliates. Such products and services include an integrated suite of health services, such as medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, vision, supplemental benefits, and other related products. Cigna maintains sales capability in over 30 countries and jurisdictions, and has more than 190 million customer relationships throughout the world. To learn more about Cigna, including links to follow us on Facebook or Twitter, visit www.cigna.com.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1246896/image_5010983_22394327_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Cigna
WASHINGTON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Consumers' Research launched a series of new advertising efforts aimed at Coca-Cola for cozying up to woke politicians instead of servicing their customers.

The new ad and mobile billboards, which will be driven around Coke's Headquarters, the Coca-Cola Museum, and the Georgia State Capitol for the next four weeks, highlight Coke's use of forced labor in China, their contributions to the obesity crisis, and other health concerns related to their product. The launch includes the following :

A satirical take on the famous hilltop ad, here , that will air Nationally and in Atlanta .

, that will air Nationally and in . A new website dedicated to highlighting Coke's hypocrisy  AlwaysWokaCola.com

Mobile billboards scheduled to drive around Coke's HQ, the Coca-Cola Museum, and the GA State Capitol for the next 28 days.

"Today, we are launching AlwaysWokaCola.com and the accompanying ads as a satirical reminder to Coke to focus on their consumers, not woke politicians. The company has taken its eye off the well-being of the customer. Their products continue to contribute significantly to childhood obesity, they have sourced sugar from companies in China reportedly using forced labor, and they have such poor quality control that racist directives, like "be less white" are included in staff trainings" said Will Hild, Executive Director of Consumers' Research.

These latest ads are part of Consumers' Research ongoing campaign known as the Consumers First Initiative , a major "name and shame" campaign against corporations that try to distract attention from their corporate failures by playing woke politics.

Consumers' Research initial launch successfully targeted corporations including American Airlines , Coca-Cola , and Nike by running weeklong ads criticizing the companies for putting woke politics over consumer interests. Last week ahead of the MLB All-Star game, the nonprofit released its second phase of the ongoing campaign with hard-hitting ads critical of Major League Baseball (MLB) and Ticketmaster .

Hild's message is clear, "Any corporation who decides to distract from their misdeeds by taking radical positions on political and social issues that are unrelated to their business to garner positive praise from woke politicians and press is on notice, it's not going to work."

You can view all of Consumers' Research ads here:

Always Woka-Cola

Losing Record (MLB)

Droves (Ticketmaster)

Busted (Coca-Cola)

The Worst (American Airlines)

Cover (Nike)

About Consumers' Research:

Founded in 1929, Consumers' Research is an independent educational 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Its near century old mission is to increase the knowledge and understanding of issues, policies, products, and services of concern to consumers and to promote the freedom to act on that knowledge and understanding. Consumers Research frequently comments on the effects that laws, regulations, and government programs have on consumers. For more information visit: http://consumersresearch.org .

SOURCE Consumers' Research

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ATLANTA, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- CryoLife, Inc. (NYSE: CRY), a leading cardiac and vascular surgery company focused on aortic disease, announced today that second quarter 2021 financial results will be released on Thursday, July 29, 2021 after the market closes. On that day, the Company will hold a teleconference call and live webcast at 4:30 p.m. ET to discuss the results, followed by a question and answer session hosted by Pat Mackin, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of CryoLife, Inc.

To listen to the live teleconference, please dial 201-689-8261 a few minutes prior to 4:30 p.m. ET. A replay of the teleconference will be available July 29 through August 5, 2021 and can be accessed by calling (toll free) 877-660-6853 or 201-612-7415. The conference number for the replay is 13721548.

The live webcast and replay can be accessed in the Investor Relations section of the CryoLife website at www.cryolife.com and selecting Webcasts & Presentations. In addition, a copy of the earnings press release, which will contain financial and statistical information for the completed quarter and full year, can be accessed in the Investor Relations section of the CryoLife website.

About CryoLife, Inc.

Headquartered in suburban Atlanta, Georgia, CryoLife is a leader in the manufacturing, processing, and distribution of medical devices and implantable tissues used in cardiac and vascular surgical procedures focused on aortic repair. CryoLife markets and sells products in more than 100 countries worldwide. For additional information about CryoLife, visit our website, www.cryolife.com.

Contacts:

CryoLife D. Ashley Lee Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer

and Chief Operating Officer

Phone: 770-419-3355

Gilmartin Group LLC Brian Johnston / Lynn Lewis Phone: 631-807-1986 [email protected]

SOURCE CryoLife, Inc.
MAUMEE, Ohio, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Dana Incorporated (NYSE: DAN) will release its 2021 second-quarter financial results on Friday, July 30, 2021. A press release will be issued at approximately 7 a.m. EDT, followed by a conference call and webcast at 9 a.m. EDT. Members of the company's senior management team will be available at that time to discuss the results and answer related questions.

Participants may listen to the audio portion of the conference call either through audio streaming online or by telephone. Slide viewing is available online via a link provided on the Dana investor website: www.dana.com/investors . U.S. and Canadian locations should dial 1-888-311-4590 and international locations should call 1-706-758-0054. Please enter conference I.D. 6842746 ask for the "Dana Incorporated's Financial Webcast and Conference Call." Phone registration will be available beginning at 8:30 a.m. EDT.

An audio recording of the webcast will be available after 5 p.m. EDT on July 30 by dialing 1-855-859-2056 (U.S. or Canada) or 1-404-537-3406 (international) and entering conference I.D. 6842746. A webcast replay will also be available after 5 p.m. EDT and may be accessed via Dana's investor website.

About Dana Incorporated

Dana is a leader in the design and manufacture of highly efficient propulsion and energy-management solutions for all mobility markets across the globe. The company's conventional and clean-energy solutions support nearly every vehicle manufacturer with drive and motion systems; electrodynamic technologies, including software and controls; and thermal, sealing, and digital solutions.

Based in Maumee, Ohio, USA, the company reported sales of $7.1 billion in 2020 with 38,000 associates in 33 countries across six continents. Founded in 1904, Dana was named one of "America's Most Responsible Companies 2021" by Newsweek for its emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility. The company is driven by a high-performance culture that focuses on its people, which has earned it global recognition as a top employer, including "World's Best Employer" from Forbes magazine. Learn more at dana.com.

SOURCE Dana Incorporated

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BETHESDA, Md., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- DiamondRock Hospitality Company (the "Company") (NYSE: DRH) announced today that it has completed the repositioning of The Lodge at Sonoma and the resort joined Marriott International, Inc.'s Autograph Collection on July 1, 2021.

"The extensive repositioning and subsequent association with the Autograph Collection makes The Lodge at Sonoma one of the premier resorts in Northern California," said Mark W. Brugger, President and Chief Executive Officer of DiamondRock Hospitality Company. "DiamondRock was the first lodging REIT to invest in California's wine country when it acquired The Lodge at Sonoma in 2004 and the resort has been an outstanding investment for the Company. We project our $10 million transformation will generate a return on investment of over 25% and our undepreciated investment basis of approximately $380,000 per key is a fraction of market value and replacement cost. Importantly, the investment also represents another milestone in DiamondRock's strategy to curate a collection of exceptional urban lifestyle and experiential resort hotels. Later this year, we will complete the repositioning of our resort at Vail Mountain in Colorado and our urban lifestyle hotel in the Cherry Creek submarket of Denver as Luxury Collection hotels. In addition, the conversion of the Barbary Beach House Key West to a Margaritaville Resort is underway and we are reviewing several additional repositioning opportunities to enhance expected future growth."

About The Lodge at Sonoma

The Lodge at Sonoma, located in the heart of Sonoma, has been transformed into a luxury boutique resort with an intentional design that honors the spirit of Sonoma. The hotel's mission-style architecture was preserved as an homage to Sonoma's Mission San Francisco Solano, while a refreshed front drive features lush landscaping, a striking pergola, and a unique fountain with fire features. Guests are greeted by a warm, open-concept lobby with floor-to-ceiling windows revealing beautiful views of the hills beyond the property. Thoughtful design elements include handwoven Mexican textiles and Native American-influenced artwork, along with a large custom tapestry featuring a historic representation of Sonoma Square's Mission building. Upon arrival, guests receive a personal invitation to the day's events, including a visit to the "Dream Wall" found beneath a 400-year old valley oak tree. Guests can write down their personal dreams and place them in a bottle and over time, the resort will gather this biodegradable paper and add it to the soil that feeds the vineyard and trees on property.

All 182 guest rooms and suites have been redesigned to incorporate the spirit of Sonoma, most notably the intimate cottages which feature private outdoor soaking tubs and fireplaces where guests can unwind while taking in the beauty of the resort's natural surroundings. The resort's Raindance Spa has been previously ranked among the Top 10 resort spas in the United States.

To bring to life the culinary excellence wine country is known for, each onsite culinary concept underscores creativity and seasonality through partnerships with local farms. Renowned chef Michael Mina's first wine country restaurant, Wit & Wisdom, offers a warm California eatery featuring products from local Sonoma and Napa Valley artisans. Along with an inviting hearth oven, outdoor bocce ball court and a world-class wine list suited for a top Sonoma resort, Wit & Wisdom also boasts a standout cocktail program featuring libations from Camber Lay, one of the San Francisco Bay Area's most celebrated bartenders. Adjacent to the lobby is the brand-new Benicia's Kitchen, serving up farm fresh fare for breakfast and lunch before guests take on a day of adventure in Sonoma. Finally, perhaps the most unique concept at the resort is High Horse Bar, a horse trailer turned poolside bar that pokes good-natured fun at its fellow wine country city, Napa. Mixology-forward, Instagram-worthy cocktails are free-flowing for guest to savor while enjoying the reimagined pool deck with modern fire pits.

For more information or to place a reservation, please call The Lodge at Sonoma at (707) 935-6600 or visit www.thelodgeatsonoma.com.

About the Company

DiamondRock Hospitality Company is a self-advised real estate investment trust (REIT) that is an owner of a leading portfolio of geographically diversified hotels concentrated in top gateway markets and destination resort locations. The Company currently owns 29 premium quality hotels with over 8,800 rooms. The Company has strategically positioned its hotels to be operated both under leading global brand families as well as unique boutique hotels in the lifestyle segment. For further information on the Company and its portfolio, please visit DiamondRock Hospitality Company's website at www.drhc.com.

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of federal securities laws and regulations. These forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as "believe," "expect," "intend," "project," "forecast," "plan" and other similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions and forecasts of future results. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results to differ materially from those anticipated at the time the forward-looking statements are made. These risks include, but are not limited to: national and local economic and business conditions; operating risks associated with the hotel business; risks associated with the level of the Company's indebtedness; relationships with property managers; the ability to compete effectively in areas such as access, location, quality of accommodations and room rate structures; changes in travel patterns, taxes and government regulations which influence or determine wages, prices, construction procedures and costs; and other risk factors contained in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Although the Company believes the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, it can give no assurance that the expectations will be attained or that any deviation will not be material. All information in this release is as of the date of this release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to conform the statement to actual results or changes in the Company's expectations.

SOURCE DiamondRock Hospitality Company

Related Links

http://www.drhc.com


COPD patients with the knowledge and resources they need to better manage living with the leading adult chronic lung disease in the world.

Caregivers with information that will help them provide better patient care to those they assist with daily life activities.

Physicians and other health care providers with the latest therapies and treatments to help treat and manage COPD.

"We are excited to partner with Olympus in providing educational resources to help those living with COPD better manage their respiratory health," said EFA's President and CEO Marc Carrel. The series is designed to improve the quality of life of those living with the disease and to encourage adults to be screened for chronic lung diseases. Early diagnosis of COPD is critical to maintaining a higher quality of life, but studies suggest COPD is underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed in approximately two-thirds of patients at risk of COPD.i

Although COPD, an umbrella term for emphysema and chronic bronchitis, is the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S., many Americans are unaware that they have this disease.ii Nationally there are 16 millioniii adults diagnosed with COPD but approximately another 15 million have COPD symptoms or evidence of impaired lung function yet have never been tested for the disease.iv,v,vi,vii With the support of partners like Olympus, EFA will reach more people struggling with COPD and encourage those experiencing symptoms to be screened.

"Olympus cares deeply about combatting lung disease and is committed to finding solutions to help relieve the symptoms of COPD," said Lynn Ray, Vice President and General Manager of the Global Respiratory Business Unit for Olympus Corporation. "We are very excited to partner with the EFA to ensure that the general public is more educated about the commonly overlooked symptoms of COPD, with the goal of ensuring this disease can be properly and proactively treated."

"The Emphysema Foundation of America is proud to serve those individuals and families suffering with emphysema and COPD," said Carrel. "We are thankful to Olympus for providing us the support to create this important opportunity to educate patients, caregivers, and medical professionals and to improve respiratory health and chronic lung disease across the nation."

Find more information about the workshops here: emphysema.org/doctors-and-care-givers/events/.

About Emphysema Foundation of America

Emphysema Foundation of America (EFA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization seeking to increase awareness of emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and conduct and support activities and research to prevent and treat those diseases. It conducts advocacy on lung health and tobacco issues in multiple states and Washington, DC. It fosters research, provides patient-support programs, and sponsors educational opportunities for health care providers such as the upcoming 2021 Pacific Coast Lung Health Conference scheduled for November 20, 2021, at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. To learn more, visit emphysema.org.

About Olympus Corporation of the Americas

Olympus is passionate about creating customer-driven solutions for healthcare professionals and the patients they serve. Olympus Corporation of the Americas is headquartered in Center Valley, Pennsylvania, USA, with 5,500 employees throughout North and South America. For more information, visit www.olympusamerica.com.

i Laucho-Contreras ME, Cohen-Todd M. Early diagnosis of COPD: myth or a true perspective. European Respiratory Society. https://err.ersjournals.com/content/29/158/200131. Published December 31, 2020.

ii Lamprecht B, Soriano JB, Studnicka M, et al. Determinants of underdiagnosis of COPD in national and international surveys. Chest. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25950276/. Published 2021.

iii Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/copd/index.html. Published February 22, 2021.

iv Martinez CH, Mannino DM, Jaimes FA, et al. Undiagnosed Obstructive Lung Disease in the United States. Associated Factors and Long-term Mortality. Annals of the American Thoracic Society. 2015;12(12):1788-1795. doi:10.1513/annalsats.201506-388oc

v Charles Patrick Davis MD. COPD Treatment, Symptoms, Definition, Diagnosis. MedicineNet. https://www.medicinenet.com/copd_chronic_obstructive_pulmonary_disease/article.htm. Published November 18, 2020.

vi Mannino DM. Obstructive Lung Disease and Low Lung Function in Adults in the United States. Archives of Internal Medicine. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/485351. Published June 12, 2000.

vii Millions May Be Living with Undiagnosed COPD, Missing Opportunities to Improve Quality of Life, says American Lung Association. American Lung Association. https://www.lung.org/media/press-releases/millions-may-be-living-with-copd. Published 2021.

SOURCE Olympus Medical Systems Group
NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- ENGINE, a global, full-service media and marketing services company, today launched Audience Intelligence, a platform that offers rich first-party data and integrations for advertisers to develop audience targets, plan media across channels, and take action.

"Drawing upon ENGINE's full-service marketing expertise, Audience Intelligence was built with ease of use for agencies and brands top of mind," said Andy Davidson, who leads data strategy and analytics for ENGINE Insights, the research and analytics division of ENGINE. "The platform is both easy to use and incredibly powerful. With just a few simple clicks, media buyers create customized audience profiles, visualize behaviors across media channels, plan targeted campaigns, and activate programmatic advertising."

ENGINE Audience Intelligence leverages consumer media behaviors across linear TV, CTV (Connected TV), print, radio, digital, social, and podcasts, including content preferences, day parts, digital habits, demographics, and psychographics. Additional integrations with rich first-party data sources enable users to view data through the lens of over 5,000 target segments -- from Auto Intenders to New Home Buyers to Environmental Enthusiasts to ENGINE's portfolio of precision audiences launched last year (ENGINE Audiences). Advertisers can also activate campaigns against these targets by accessing the platform's integration with ENGINE Media Exchange (EMX).

ENGINE Audience Intelligence provides comprehensive insight into the demographic makeup of customers and prospects, including what they are watching, reading, listening to, and what they value and find interest in. The interactive platform is based on a combination of inputs, including a 25,000-person survey of a nationally representative slice of the US population, passively collected digital click stream data providing insight to interests, sentiments, and behaviors, passively aggregated purchase data that provides intelligence on what people are buying at point of sale, and direct integrations between these sources and ENGINE Media Exchange (EMX).

"We uniquely understand the programmatic ecosystem's needs since we own and operate a leading SSP. Audience Intelligence is designed to meet the real time needs of clients' omnichannel media plans," said Michael Zacharski, CEO of ENGINE Media Exchange. "Advertisers can quickly and easily assemble campaign targeting strategies, reach customers and prospects, measure the results, and optimize their entire plan in real time in both biddable programmatic and traditional media channels."

For more information on ENGINE's products and solutions, please visit https://engine-insights.com/

ABOUT ENGINE

ENGINE is a global, full-service media and marketing services company that unites culture and commerce to move brands forward faster. We are: Driven by data. Fueled by imagination. Powered by technology. Founded in 2005, ENGINE has global headquarters in New York and 16 offices across North America, the UK, Europe and Asia-Pacific. ENGINE empowers clients to outperform in the present and win in the future with its vast range of marketing solutions including  insights, creative, media, data and technology. Find out more at enginegroup.com and follow @engineworldwide .

Media Contact: Bridget Swartz, Director of Marketing, ENGINE, [email protected]

SOURCE ENGINE Group

Related Links

enginegroup.com


GHENT, Belgium, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- ExeVir, which is developing single domain antibody therapies providing broad protection against viral infections, and Mithra Pharmaceuticals (Euronext Brussels: MITRA) announce a new collaboration to utilize the fill and finish capabilities for ExeVir's innovative therapies at Mithra's integrated R&D and manufacturing platform, Mithra CDMO.

ExeVir launched less than one year ago and has made tremendous progress in building the company and an innovative pipeline. Following the final close of its $50 million Series A financing earlier this year, ExeVir is accelerating the development of XVR011 for the potential treatment and prevention of Covid-19. The Phase 1b/2 clinical study is designed as a registration trial targeting conditional or emergency approval.

XVR011 is a single domain-based anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody (llama-derived VHH-Fc) optimized for stability, safety, broad neutralizing capability and excellent manufacturability. It stops Covid-19 from entering human cells and demonstrates best-in-class potential offering breadth and potency against a range of Coronaviruses (pan-sarbecovirus neutralization) and is significantly differentiated from other antibody treatments. Preclinical data show XVR011 antibody to be effective against SARS-CoV-2, and importantly, its rapidly spreading variants of concern. ExeVir has recently generated data which demonstrate in vitro neutralization activity against SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern Gamma and Delta.

Mithra CDMO offers a complete spectrum of solutions from early drug development, clinical batches and commercial manufacturing of complex polymeric products (vaginal ring, implants) as well as hormonal tablets. Since July 2021, Mithra CDMO is operating a new manufacturing facility fully dedicated to fill & finish production of complex liquid injectables and biologicals in vials, pre-filled syringes or cartridges.

The selection of Mithra CDMO for the filling operations of ExeVir's innovative Covid-19 therapeutic confirms its confidence in Mithra's technological know-how and state-of-the-art infrastructure. Under the terms of the collaboration, Mithra will be responsible for upscaling and manufacturing services for filling the drug substance in support of clinical and commercial supply.

Torsten Mummenbrauer, CEO of ExeVir Bio, said: "We are very pleased to collaborate with Mithra which has built a cutting-edge new fill and finish manufacturing facility. It has been a phenomenal year for ExeVir. Being able to collaborate with great partners in Europe such as Mithra and others are not only key to our success, but also helps the growth of the biotech ecosystem in Belgium and across Europe."

Renaat Baes, Chief Manufacturing Officer of Mithra, commented: "We are absolutely thrilled to enter into this collaboration agreement with ExeVir, who is developing promising innovative Covid-19 treatments. We will utilise both our team's unique knowledge to accelerate clinical supply and ensure manufacturing capacity to bring relief to patients all over the world. Our collaboration will contribute to creating employment within the local biotech ecosystem across Belgium, Europe and support the increasing supply and manufacturing demands."

About ExeVir Bio

ExeVir Bio is a clinical stage company harnessing its VHH technology platform to generate robust antiviral therapies providing broad protection against viral infections, including pan-coronaviruses. It is a spin out from VIB, the world class Belgium-based life sciences research institute. ExeVir's platform is based on the work of and collaboration with Professor Dr. Xavier Saelens and Professor Dr. Nico Callewaert from VIB. ExeVir Bio is led by a team of experts that combines international biotech and pharma experience with a successful track record of developing and bringing products to market. It has raised over 42M from blue chip investors led by Fund+, VIB, UCB Ventures, SFPI-FPIM, V-Bio Ventures, SRIW, Noshaq, Vives IUF, SambrInvest and several Belgian Family Offices. ExeVir has also been awarded funding from the Flanders Agency for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (VLAIO). www.exevir.com.

About Mithra Pharmaceuticals

Mithra (Euronext: MITRA) is a Belgian biotech company dedicated to transforming Women's Health by offering new choices through innovation, with a particular focus on contraception and menopause. Mithra's goal is to develop products offering better efficacy, safety and convenience, meeting women's needs throughout their life span. Mithra explores the potential of the unique native estrogen Estetrol in a wide range of applications in women health and beyond (Covid-19, neuroprotection). Mithra also develops and manufactures complex therapeutics in the areas of contraception, menopause and hormone-dependent cancers. It offers partners a complete spectrum of research, development and specialist manufacturing at its technological platform Mithra CDMO in Flemalle, Belgium. With 15,000 m of modern pharmaceutical pilot scale and GMP manufacturing facilities, Mithra CDMO provides specialized services covering complex therapeutic polymeric forms (vaginal rings and implants); fill & finish production of complex liquid injectables and biologicals in vials, pre-filled syringes or cartridges; a tablet manufacturing platform dedicated to Estetrol-based products. Active in more than 100 countries around the world, Mithra has an approximate headcount of 350 staff members and is headquartered in Liege, Belgium. www.mithra.com www.mithracdmo.com

SOURCE ExeVir Bio
VANCOUVER, BC, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Australian Goldfields Limited (formerly Graphite Energy Corp.) (the "Company") (CSE:AUGF) (OTC:GRXXF) (Frankfurt: G0A) is pleased to report assays results confirming the presence of gold mineralization within surface samples taken at the Beatons River Project, Pilbara, Western Australia. A reconnaissance and mapping program is ongoing at the project, with select sampling of areas deemed to be of interest.

Three small hand samples were taken from conglomerate located approximately 3 kilometers east of the Beaton's Creek gold resource currently being developed by Novo Resources. One sample returned 0.20 grams per tonne gold and another 0.02 grams per tonne gold. These results are considered anomalous for gold and indicate the potential for gold mineralization within the conglomerate formation. The rugged location was accessed on foot by the geological team. Samples were taken under the supervision of Mr. William Feyerabend, a Consulting Geologist, a Qualified Person under NI 43-101 and a director of the Company. The three samples were taken using best industry practices, with security insured to the laboratory. ICP Assay work was completed at Australian Laboratory Services PTY (ALS) of Brisbane, Australia, an ISO Certified laboratory. The geological team are currently further evaluating 40 target areas identified from a satellite imagery program completed by Perry Remote Sensing LLC of Denver, Colorado.

The next step in evaluating the area identified as gold anomalous will involve a larger bulk sample of the conglomerate outcrop. Helicopter or tracked vehicle support may be employed to obtain large bulk samples of the areas of interest. As the program is ongoing, other areas of interest may also be identified.

About Australian Goldfields

AUGF has an extensive land package located in the historic Pilbara Mining District of Western Australia. The package is comprised of five separate claim groups including the 335 square kilometer Beaton's River Project.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Adrian Hobkirk

President and CEO

T: 954-684-8040

E: [email protected]

W: www.australiangoldfields.com

The Technical and scientific information contained in this news release was reviewed by Mr. William Feyerabend, a Consulting Geologist and Qualified Person under NI 43-101. Mr. Feyerabend participated in the production of this news release. Challenges associated with the company's exploration program are set out on page 14 of the Form 2A under the heading "Challenges associated with the Issuer's Exploration Program".

The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Neither the CSE nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the United States Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Except for statements of historical fact relating to the Company, certain information contained herein constitutes forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based upon opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward looking statements. We seek safe harbor.

Related Links

http://www.australiangoldfields.com



SOURCE Australian Goldfields Limited
NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) announced today that it will officially open its new US headquarters at One Manhattan West on Monday, July 19. It will be the first day that EY professionals can begin occupying its new office, located in the Manhattan West neighborhood near the Hudson Yards district. More than 12,000 EY professionals call New York City their home office  the most of any single office in the global organization of EY member firms.

Kelly Grier, EY US Chair and Managing Partner and Americas Managing Partner, says, "Opening our offices at One Manhattan West marks the beginning of a new era for us in New York City. Large employers have long played a critical role in driving economic growth, and that's become even more important as we look ahead to navigating the future of work in a post-pandemic world. We recognize this responsibility and look forward to welcoming our people to One Manhattan West and supporting the city's ongoing revitalization."

The firm's position as a major employer in New York City extends beyond its occupancy at One Manhattan West. Over the past year, EY US has broadened its support of New York and its recovery through several high-profile public-private collaborative relationships. These include:

Co-chairing the New York Jobs CEO Council, a collaborative effort to prepare 100,000 New Yorkers in low-income, diverse communities for the future of work

Launching the EY Entrepreneurs Access Network, a business accelerator to support Black and Latinx entrepreneurs across New York as they scale their companies

as they scale their companies Teaming with the New York City Department of Small Business Services through BE NYC: consulting and connecting EY consultants with Black small business owners citywide

These initiatives build long-standing EY business and civic involvements across New York City, from serving as a member of the Partnership for New York City, to sponsoring arts organizations, such as the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts and Brooklyn Museum, among many others.

One Manhattan West also represents [email protected], the global EY workplace transformation program, which launched in 2012 and was refreshed in 2020. [email protected] aligns with the EY Way of Working, a US initiative that seeks to modernize the people and client experience in a post-pandemic world, both inside and outside the office.

One Manhattan West is the largest of several EY offices across the New York City metro area, including a location in Hoboken and EY wavespace growth and innovation centers in Union Square and Chelsea. One Manhattan West is part of a new, eight-acre, six-building neighborhood called Manhattan West developed by Brookfield Properties. In addition to six million square feet of leading-class office space, Manhattan West features luxury apartments, a boutique hotel, experiential retail, and dozens of cafes, bars and restaurants, all surrounding a 2.5-acre landscaped central public plaza that will be programmed year-round. Manhattan West is located adjacent to Moynihan Train Hall and Penn Station, the busiest transit facility in the Western Hemisphere. With 67 floors total, the building is LEED Gold-certified and 2021 WELL Health-Safety Rated and has a Fitwel two-star rating. One Manhattan West is designed for water and energy efficiency and equipped with smart building beacons and sensors to control lighting, heating, cooling and air quality.

Herb Engert, New York City Office Managing Partner, EY US, says:

"As New York City continues its post-pandemic recovery, we are excited to open our new space at One Manhattan West and welcome our people back to the physical office after more than a year. One Manhattan West will reflect our EY Way of Working, which encourages well-being, teaming and an exceptional client experience within a hybrid working world."

About EY

EY exists to build a better working world, helping create long-term value for clients, people and society and build trust in the capital markets.

Enabled by data and technology, diverse EY teams in over 150 countries provide trust through assurance and help clients grow, transform and operate.

Working across assurance, consulting, law, strategy, tax and transactions, EY teams ask better questions to find new answers for the complex issues facing our world today.

EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. Information about how EY collects and uses personal data and a description of the rights individuals have under data protection legislation are available via ey.com/privacy. EY member firms do not practice law where prohibited by local laws. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com.

SOURCE EY

Related Links

http://www.ey.com


WASHINGTON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A new poll finds that Nevada voters blame President Biden for the border crisis and oppose efforts by to include a massive amnesty for illegal aliens in a spending bill intended to upgrade the nation's infrastructure. The poll of 401 likely voters in Nevada was conducted by Zogby Analytics on behalf of the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) between July 9 and 12.

Democratic leaders are seeking to use the Budget Reconciliation process that allows legislation that has significant impact on the federal budget to bypass normal Senate rules that require 60 votes to bring a bill to the floor. Invoking Budget Reconciliation would allow passage with just 51 votes.

By 46% to 42%, Nevada voters object to the use of this legislative tactic "to enact major immigration legislation." Opposition to including amnesty for millions of illegal aliens cut across all demographic and party lines. Further, voters clearly reject the idea of large-scale amnesty in the midst of unprecedented numbers of new illegal migrants crossing our borders.

Among the key findings of the poll:

55% of voters agree that granting "amnesty, or a pathway to citizenship, to millions of illegal immigrants already in the United States " would exacerbate the current immigration and border crisis.

" would exacerbate the current immigration and border crisis. 59% of Nevada voters hold the Biden administration and its policies responsible for the current immigration and border crisis.

voters hold the Biden administration and its policies responsible for the current immigration and border crisis. 68% believe that the "situation at the border represents a humanitarian, health, and national security crisis for the United States and steps must be taken to end it."

and steps must be taken to end it." 46% of voters oppose of including an amnesty for illegal aliens in a bill to fund infrastructure upgrades. Only 42% would support such an effort.

47% said they would be less likely to support Senator Catherine Cortez-Masto if she were to support efforts to short-circuit normal Senate rules in order to gain amnesty for illegal aliens. Only 28% said it would make them more likely to support her.

"It is clear to people in Nevada that amnesty for illegal aliens has no place in a bill to upgrade our nation infrastructure," said Dan Stein, president of FAIR. "Illegal aliens can in no reasonable way be construed as infrastructure and people of all political stripes have a visceral objection to gimmicking Senate rules to enact social policies, like a massive amnesty, that could never gain passage on their own merits.

"The reckless policies of the Biden administration have created an unprecedented illegal immigration crisis. The voters are very clear: Any senator who yields to pressure from their party's fringe, and resorts to legislative trickery to gain amnesty for millions of illegal aliens, does so at his or her political peril," concluded Stein.

The full results of the Zogby Analytics poll can be found here.

Contact: Matthew Tragesser, 202-328-7004 or [email protected]

ABOUT FAIR

Founded in 1979, FAIR is the country's largest immigration reform group. With over 3 million members and supporters nationwide, FAIR fights for immigration policies that serve national interests, not special interests. FAIR believes that immigration reform must enhance national security, improve the economy, protect jobs, preserve our environment, and establish a rule of law that is recognized and enforced.

SOURCE Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR)

Related Links

http://www.fairus.org


LOS ANGELES, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Hollywood actor, Siaka Massaquoi, a conservative black activist as well as entertainer, filed suit in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California (Case No. LACV21-5722) on July 15, 2021, over an allegedly illegal unconstitutional raid by the FBI and its agents, as ordered by and at the direction of FBI Director Christopher Wray, as part and parcel to the bureau's post January 6, 2021, round up of even peaceful protestors who were in Washington, D.C., in support of President Trump and a nation free of corruption.

The complaint, which is filed as a class action for all persons who were in the nation's capital to peacefully protest, but who in the aftermath of January 6, 2021, have been rounded up, had their homes and businesses violated and broken into, their property such as cell phones and computers seized without probable cause, arrested, prosecuted, denied bail, or some even thrown into solitary confinement while awaiting trial, alleges the violation of First, Fifth, and Fourteenth constitutional rights by the defendants.

Larry Klayman, the chairman and general counsel of Freedom Watch, which represents Mr. Massaquoi, and will seek entry pro hac vice into the case had this to say:

"The FBI, as alleged, is being used by the Biden-Harris Justice Department as the administration's and the left's "personal Gestapo," to stifle free speech and dissent over the near total leftist, socialist and borderline communist takeover of our body politic. And, FBI Director Wray bears personal legal responsibility and liability for these unconstitutional acts, which he has bragged about in public testimony before Congress  branding the peaceful protestors as mostly white domestic terrorists.

The lead plaintiff, Mr. Massaquoi, was not arrested, and was at the Capitol peacefully. He and his family and friends were handcuffed in front of children, denied right of counsel, and allegedly illegally questioned. To make matters worse, his cell phone and computers were seized, preventing him from carrying out his trade and profession and well as personal matters. The defendants have refused to return his property.

Mr. Massaquoi will be present at the press conference and will speak to the unconstitutional and illegal tactics of the Defendants, for which they must be held to legally account. Mr. Klayman, a former U.S. Department of Justice prosecutor during the Reagan administration, will also speak.

Media Contact: Justin Baronoff, 561-750-9800, [email protected]

SOURCE Freedom Watch
NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- FINN Partners today promotes Kristie Kuhl, JD, to managing partner, Global Health Practice Leader. The promotion recognizes Kuhl's outstanding contributions to client successes, Health Practice and agency-wide growth, and mobilizing account teams across FINN offices in the service of championing health innovation.

Kristie Kuhl, Managing Partners, Global Health Practice Leader at FINN Partners FINN Partners' Gil Bashe and Kristie Kuhl discuss how purpose and values fuel FINN's long-term staff tenure and client relationships.

Kuhl's appointment comes as the FINN Health Practice prepares for its next wave of growth and acknowledges the sector's influence on other FINN practices and services. Recognized as a top global healthcare agency by PRovoke Media, one of the four largest independent health agencies in O'Dwyer's PR, and "Most Admired Agency" by industry trade community HITMC, the FINN Health Practice has grown to become one of the agency's largest units.

"It's an honor to work with FINN colleagues across our 22 offices globally for the benefit of clients throughout the health ecosystem and, most importantly, the patients they serve," said Kuhl. "Success demands in-depth understanding of how the system operates and its inherent challenges, and how science and regulatory parameters can either create obstacles or accelerate care. Ensuring our clients can benefit from this expertise demands a collaborative culture that unlocks our full potential to enable client success."

Kuhl joined Finn Partners in 2015 as U.S. Pharma and NY Health Head. She came to FINN after serving as an executive vice president at agencies Cohn & Wolfe and Makovsky, where she drew on her knowledge of pharma marketing, regulatory law, patient advocacy and the U.S. reimbursement system to advance breakthrough therapies. Kuhl received her law degree from Quinnipiac University after working as a leader in a cancer patient advocacy organization. Honoring her achievements at FINN, PM360 recognized her as one of the health industry's inspirational leaders in 2017 and PR News named her to their "Top Women in PR" in 2020.

"It is a privilege to have seen Kristie at work these past 20 years at two different agencies, witnessing firsthand her commitment to clients and colleagues and her dedication to securing patient access to health innovation," said Gil Bashe, managing partner and chair, Global Health. "The health industry is undergoing tremendous transformation, and we are seeing that health innovation is simply not available to all who need it. These disparities, health inequities and looming, unmet patient needs must be addressed. Kristie and our Global Health leadership team share a passion for this work; they are the people who will make a difference."

Bashe as Global Health Chair continues to focus on acquisitions, agency-wide strategic efforts, client priorities and partnerships that ally players throughout the industry to improve global health and access to innovation. Bashe is charged with drawing on his industry knowledge and commitment to clients and colleagues to expand health opportunities throughout the global community. Bashe also serves as Global Health Sector Chair for Public Relations Organisation International (PROI), of which FINN is a member.

"Kristie and Gil are outstanding partners who work toward our clients' and community's success," said Peter Finn, founding partner and CEO. "Kristie now steps forward to lead one of our Agency's most important and fast-growing practices and Gil charts the future of health within FINN and throughout the industry. Their model collaboration increases the possibility that FINN will elevate the industry's ability to create a healthier, better world."

During Kuhl's and Bashe's time at FINN, the Health Practice has grown from $8 million to more than $35 million in client fees and the Agency has come to represent many of the best-known companies and institutions throughout the global health sector. The FINN Health Practice, with some 175 staff, is now positioned to address health opportunities agency-wide, as well as provide leadership among peers throughout the industry to effect real change.

"Kristie taking on this new role recognizes her achievements, ability and commitment to transform the way FINN operates and elevate the industry's efforts to make a difference. There's no sector in the global community that can exclude itself from building a healthier world, and we seek to be at the forefront of that effort," stated Bashe.

About FINN Partners, Inc.

Founded in 2011 on the core principles of innovation and collaborative partnership, FINN Partners has more than quadrupled in size over the past 10 years, becoming one of the fastest growing independent, integrated marketing agencies in the world. The full-service marketing and communications company's record setting pace is a result of organic growth and integrating new companies and new people into the FINN world through a common philosophy. With almost 800 professionals, FINN provides clients with global access and capabilities in the Americas, Europe and Asia. In addition, FINN provides its clients with access to top tier agencies around the world through its membership in the global network PROI. Headquartered in New York, FINN's other offices are in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Detroit, Fort Lauderdale, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Jerusalem, London, Los Angeles, Munich, Nashville, Paris, Portland, San Francisco, Seattle, Shanghai, Singapore, Southern California and Washington D.C. Find us at finnpartners.com and follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @finnpartners.

SOURCE FINN Partners

Related Links

https://www.finnpartners.com


SAN DIEGO, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Finopotamus, the only online resource providing in-depth technology coverage exclusively to credit unions, today announced the winners of its inaugural 2021 Tekkie Awards. The awards are co-sponsored by popular technology e-newsletter, Credit Union tech-talk.

Tekkie Award categories and winners are:

Core Integration: Meridian Credit Union, CA $27 billion in assets, 400,000 members

Meridian Credit Union, CA in assets, 400,000 members COVID-19 Response: co-winners Community First Credit Union, $695 million in assets, 60,000 members and Delta Community Credit Union, $8.3 billion in assets, 450,000 members

co-winners Community First Credit Union, in assets, 60,000 members Delta Community Credit Union, in assets, 450,000 members Data and Analytics: Northwest Community Credit Union, $1.6 billion in assets, 107,000 members

Northwest Community Credit Union, in assets, 107,000 members Lending: Nuvision Federal Credit Union, $2.7 billion in assets, 160,000 members

Nuvision Federal Credit Union, in assets, 160,000 members Self -Service: iTHINK Financial Credit Union, $1.8 billion in assets, 96,000 members

Profiles of the award winners and their respective technology achievements are available now on the Finopotamus website.

About Credit Union tech-talk

Credit Union tech-talk is a technology newsletter that goes out every week to over 14,000 credit union professionals and 2,000 FinTech vendors. Since 1988, we have served as a clearinghouse for technology information to the credit union movement. Our goal is to be a leading source of technology information for credit unions of all sizes. We provide the latest information on such topics as the Internet, online banking, bill payment/presentment, debit/credit and smart cards, technology training, conferences, vendors, hardware, software, security, ATMs/kiosks, wireless access, biometrics, call centers, imaging, plus technology and marketing/merchandising. Learn more at www.cunews.com.

About Finopotamus

Finopotamus is an online publication created by industry veterans W.B. King, John San Filippo, and Roy Urrico to bring credit unions technology news and original content not found elsewhere. The publication looks at technology best practices across multiple industries to bring credit unions the broadest range of relevant information. The publication's tagline is Fintech News for Hungry CUs. Visit Finopotamus at www.finopotamus.com.

Contact: John San Filippo, [email protected], 619-467-0431

SOURCE Finopotamus LLC

Related Links

http://www.finopotamus.com


SAN JOSE, Costa Rica, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The spotlight will be on Costa Rica this month as the country launches its first of many lifestyle Tourism Bonds for private investors into existing successful tourism projects.

Costa Rica has one of the strongest tourism brands & economies in the Americas. However, its access to capital for development within the industry is limited and expensive. This makes it difficult and slow to improve existing infrastructure such as hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals.

Costa Rica's First Tourism Bond Costa Rica's First Tourism Bond

Millions of tourists visit Costa Rica yearly, and many look to invest in this amazing, stable, and sustainable country. Their only options until now were to buy Real Estate or Land.

Costa Rica's Tourism Bonds were developed out of the need for tourism to access better capital markets for investors wanting to diversify their portfolio. They offer investors returns, usage of the property, VIP perks, and in most cases, residency in Costa Rica.

"This is something that tourists, investors and the industry have been waiting for. A product that blends a lifestyle with an investment while helping sustainability grow successful tourism projects." Hans Pfister, Owner, The Cayuga Collection

Costa Rica Tourism Bonds has made an additional investment option available! Their tourism bonds offer a balance between a sustainable lifestyle and steady returns in some of Costa Rica's finest luxury resorts and developing enterprises.

A tourism bond is a secure investment in a tourism project offering both financial and lifestyle returns. You invest into a tourism project, receive an annual return, and at the end of the term, you receive your original investment back, all while having enjoyed ownership benefits, and the most valuable of all - the intangible asset of memories with your loved ones.

Choosing to diversify your portfolio by investing in tourism bonds means that you are essentially becoming part-owner/investor of a high-profile, reputable organization that has been carefully selected by their team of experts. Each venture only has a limited number of bonds available, and there will be a minimum investment level.

Costa Rica Tourism Bonds is committed to working with and developing tourism projects that have strong ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) directives or are part of the Certification of Sustainable Tourism program. In fact, the very first step of the selection process is a thorough investigation into the ESG practices of the prospective project and this process is taken very seriously. Costa Rica has a genuine commitment to being a very sustainable country.

The perfect symbiosis between Five Star luxury and Five Leaf Sustainability, Arenas Del Mar is the first of several Private Placement Bonds to be announced with the reveal of the remaining Bonds in the coming months. More details can be found at www.tourismbonds.com .

"I believe anyone that joins us on this adventure will go beyond seeing a monetary return, finding an oasis of relaxation and enjoyment for themselves and their family. After all, what's important in life are our memories," David Callan, President, Arenas Del Mar Luxury Beach Resort

Contact:

Richard Bexon

+1 800-599-0330

[email protected]

SOURCE Costa Rica Tourism Bonds
These headlines also follow the recent airing of Netflix documentary Seaspiracy, which exposed that if we continue to overfish as we are, populations of nearly all seafood face collapse by 2050[1].

The Good Catch OurWay van will tour prime locations in London, UK; New York City and Austin, Texas on Thursday 15th July.

For one day only, the special sandwich vans will offer passers-by free Good Catch plant-based tuna subs, with no catch (or bycatch!). Vegans, vegetarians and meat-eaters are all welcome, the sandwiches are delicious and for everyone to enjoy  with absolutely no traces of tuna DNA, or DNA of any other sea animals, for that matter.

Chad Sarno, Co-Founder at Good Catch notes; "Our mission is to make plant-based seafood that's good for the sea and all life who call it home. Large commercial fishing is one of the most destructive activities in our oceans. We can do better. We're here to offer great tasting seafood alternatives without bycatch, mercury or environmental damage. With the Subway news grabbing headlines across the globe, this is the perfect moment to inform people that there is a better way to enjoy the taste and experience of delicious seafood without harm to our oceans. We want to encourage Subway, and other businesses, to add fish-free options for goodness to all."

Good Catch is a chef-driven innovative food company that makes delicious plant-based seafood without a catch  including plant-based tuna. Its blend of peas, chickpeas, lentils, soy, fava beans and navy beans delivers the rich flavour and delicate texture of seafood.

For people wanting to join the fish-free mission, they can simply create their own at home and share a picture tagging @goodcatchfoods to encourage @subway to go #FishFreeForGood.

[1] Source: Science Magazine

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1573991/Good_Catch.jpg

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1573990/Good_Catch.jpg

SOURCE Good Catch
HERNDON, Va., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- FranConnect , the leading provider of franchise management solutions for driving success in franchise sales, operations, and marketing, today announced that in the first half of 2021 the company achieved its highest-ever revenue growth and rate of customer acquisitions. FranConnect added or expanded relationships with more than 100 franchise brands and multi-location businesses  spanning more than 35,000 franchise locations. Those new clients and expanded partnerships now include nearly half of Entrepreneur's Top 50 and Top 100 Franchises.

"Throughout the challenges of the last year, we worked closely with our customers and the market to help us sharpen our view on the broader technology needs of the franchising ecosystem," said Gabby Wong, CEO of FranConnect. "Over the course of the first half of 2021, we delivered on an ambitious technology roadmap that goes well beyond franchise development in order to solve the growing challenges faced by brand CFOs and COOs, as well as franchise owners. As the only enterprise-class software company solely focused on supporting franchise and multi-location businesses, we continue to dig deeper to unlock solutions to the hardest and newest business challenges facing this market. Our first-half performance is a reflection of this strategy, with significant planned product investments for 2021 and 2022."

Technology Innovations

FranConnect continues to invest in technology to better serve franchisors and multi-unit businesses. In the first half of 2021, the company delivered several new enhancements that benefited the market and contributed to the company's growth:

Fully automated E-Signature capability for Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDD)

New board-level dashboards and analytics provide a comprehensive overview of franchise development performance from lead sourcing to unit onboarding

Expanded use of Artificial Intelligence tools to automate lead generation and boost sales effectiveness

Improved unit onboarding based on more granular control of the opening process with workflow and task management.

New broker management support to quantify and improve the effectiveness of franchise referral consultants

In addition to customer adoption of new product innovations, FranConnect's accelerated momentum in 2021 stems from strategic partnerships the company rolled out in the first months of the year. In January, the company acquired FranchiseBlast, creating the industry's only platform that helps franchise brands and multi-location businesses manage operational success, end-to-end, from the brand to the unit-level. In the second quarter of 2021, FranConnect established a Consulting Alliance Partnership Program with industry-leading consultants Franchise Performance Group, MSA Worldwide, iFranchise Group, and FranNet. These partnerships make customers more successful by pairing the domain expertise of leading franchise consultants with FranConnect technology. Additionally, FranConnect grew its team by nearly 20% overall, particularly in the areas of Customer Support, Engineering, and Product Management.

FranConnect's impressive momentum is translating to success for its customers, as well. Paris Baguette, an international, French-inspired bakery with more than 4,000 locations worldwide, beat its own growth goals by closing an unprecedented volume of new deals in early 2021.

"We have been using FranConnect as we nurture leads, streamline overall operations and build roadmaps for our cafe openings," said Mark Mele, chief development officer for Paris Baguette. "Our team had set aggressive sales and opening goals for 2021, and we were challenged with a database of leads weighed down with thousands of contacts that hadn't been contacted in over four years. With the help of FranConnect's outreach and lead nurture programs, we closed 25 deals in the first quarter alone and added 28 more in April. The support of FranConnect's robust platform in all areas of our business has made the difference in our success."

For more information about FranConnect, visit www.franconnect.com.

About FranConnect

FranConnect is the leading franchise management software provider. For 20 years, the FranConnect platform has served as the sales, operations, and marketing backbone for over 800 brands worldwide. Nine of the Franchise Times Top 10 Fastest-Growing franchise businesses rely on FranConnect to drive growth, improve profitability, and streamline operational performance. FranConnect customers span all sizes, growth phases, and industries and they grow 44% faster on average than the broader franchising market. Backed by private-equity investor Serent Capital, FranConnect is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, with global follow-the-sun operations. For more information on FranConnect, visit www.franconnect.com.

Contact:

Nicole Hunnicutt

Fish Consulting

404-558-4108

[email protected]

SOURCE FranConnect
This new project of the GHIT Target Research Platform aims to identify novel targets for TB drugs that can rapidly and strongly kill Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) through two independent antimicrobial mechanisms (i.e., "dual-acting"). The consortium has already identified such dual-acting candidate genes and will characterize the candidate genes in vitro and in vivo by utilizing a newly developed gene silencing technology for Mtb: the mycobacterial CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) system. At the completion of the project, they expect to identify promising drug target genes to move onto the next stage of drug development. (Appendix 1 & 2)

As of July 15, there are 57 ongoing projects, including 25 discovery, 23 preclinical and nine clinical trials, in the GHIT portfolio. The total amount of investments since 2013 is 26.1 billion yen (US$236 million). (Appendix 3)

* USD1 = JPY110.61, the approximate exchange rate on June 30, 2021.

** This awarded project was selected from a number of proposals to the RFP2020-002 for Target Research Platform, which was open for applications from June 2020 to January 2021. The GHIT board conducted in February 2021 approved this new investment.

The GHIT Fund is a Japan-based international public-private partnership fund (PPP) between the Government of Japan, multiple pharmaceutical companies, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Wellcome, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The GHIT Fund invests and manages an R&D portfolio of development partnerships aimed at neglected diseases, such as malaria, tuberculosis and neglected tropical diseases that afflict the world's vulnerable and underserved populations. The GHIT Fund mobilizes the Japanese industry, academia, and research institutes to create new drugs, vaccines, and diagnostics for malaria, tuberculosis, and neglected tropical diseases, in collaboration with global partners.

Appendix.1 New Investments

ID/Status Project Title Collaboration Partners Disease/Intervention Stage Awarded Amount T2020-253 New project Identification of novel dual-acting bactericidal drug targets against Mycobacterium tuberculosis Fujita Health University, Hokkaido University, Nagoya University, Research Institute of Tuberculosis, Harvard University, University of Minnesota Tuberculosis Drug Target Identification 97,461,961 (US$881,132)

*All amounts are listed at the exchange rate of USD1 = JPY110.61, the approximate exchange rate on June 30, 2021.

Appendix.2 Project Details

T2020-253

Project Title Identification of novel dual-acting bactericidal drug targets against Mycobacterium tuberculosis Collaboration Partners Fujita Health University, Hokkaido University, Nagoya University, Research Institute of Tuberculosis, Harvard University, University of Minnesota Disease Tuberculosis Intervention Drug Stage Target Identification Awarded Amount 97,461,961 (US$881,132) Status New project Summary [Project objective] This project aims to identify novel targets for TB drugs that can rapidly and strongly kill Mtb through two independent antimicrobial mechanisms (dual-acting). We have already identified such dual-acting candidate genes. In this project, we will characterize our candidate genes in vitro and in vivo to prioritize them within our discovery pipeline. [Project design] We will utilize a newly developed gene silencing technology for Mtb, the mycobacterial CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) system, to characterize our candidate genes in vitro and in vivo. Once we genetically validate our candidate genes, we will perform small-scale screenings using our in-house unique small molecule library (the ITbM chemical library). We will employ our unique whole cell target assays to identify small molecules that kill Mtb due to inhibition of one of our genetically validated targets. The identified hit compounds will be clustered by structural similarity and representative molecules of each cluster will be derivatized. These compounds will be used as probe compounds to perform chemical validation of the genetically validated targets. Project Detail https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/portfoliodetail/detail/188/en

*All amounts are listed at the exchange rate of USD1 = JPY110.61, the approximate exchange rate on June 30, 2021.

Appendix.3 Investment Overview (As of July 15, 2021)

1. Investment to date

Total investments 26.1 billion yen (US$236 million*)

Total invested Projects 106 (active projects 57, completed projects 49)

2. Portfolio analysis (active projects + completed projects)

To know more about GHIT investments, please visit

Investment Overview: https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/overview/en

Portfolio: https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/portfolio/en

Advancing Portfolio: https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/advancingportfolio/en

Clinical Candidates: https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/clinicalcandidates/en

For more information, contact:

Katy Lenard at +1-301-280-5719 or [email protected]

Bumpei Tamamura at +81-36441-2032 or [email protected]

SOURCE GHIT Fund

Related Links

http://www.ghitfund.org


DUBLIN, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Human Rights Organizations Global Market Report 2021: COVID-19 Impact and Recovery to 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

This report provides strategists, marketers and senior management with the critical information they need to assess the global human rights organizations market as it emerges from the COVID-19 shut down.

The global human rights organizations market is expected to grow from $15.49 billion in 2020 to $15.56 billion in 2021 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 0.5%. The growth is mainly due to the companies rearranging their operations and recovering from the COVID-19 impact, which had earlier led to restrictive containment measures involving social distancing, remote working, and the closure of commercial activities that resulted in operational challenges. The market is expected to reach $18.91 billion in 2025 at a CAGR of 5%.



Reasons to Purchase

Gain a truly global perspective with the most comprehensive report available on this market covering 12+ geographies.

Understand how the market is being affected by the coronavirus and how it is likely to emerge and grow as the impact of the virus abates.

Create regional and country strategies on the basis of local data and analysis.

Identify growth segments for investment.

Outperform competitors using forecast data and the drivers and trends shaping the market.

Understand customers based on the latest market research findings.

Benchmark performance against key competitors.

Utilize the relationships between key data sets for superior strategizing.

Suitable for supporting your internal and external presentations with reliable high quality data and analysis

Where is the largest and fastest growing market for the human rights organizations ? How does the market relate to the overall economy, demography and other similar markets? What forces will shape the market going forward? The Human Rights Organization market global report answers all these questions and many more.



The report covers market characteristics, size and growth, segmentation, regional and country breakdowns, competitive landscape, market shares, trends and strategies for this market. It traces the market's historic and forecast market growth by geography. It places the market within the context of the wider human rights organizations market, and compares it with other markets.

The market characteristics section of the report defines and explains the market.

The market size section gives the market size ($b) covering both the historic growth of the market, the impact of the COVID-19 virus and forecasting its recovery.

Market segmentations break down market into sub markets.

The regional and country breakdowns section gives an analysis of the market in each geography and the size of the market by geography and compares their historic and forecast growth. It covers the impact and recovery trajectory of COVID-19 for all regions, key developed countries and major emerging markets.

Competitive landscape gives a description of the competitive nature of the market, market shares, and a description of the leading companies. Key financial deals which have shaped the market in recent years are identified.

The trends and strategies section analyses the shape of the market as it emerges from the crisis and suggests how companies can grow as the market recovers.

The human rights organizations market section of the report gives context. It compares the human rights organizations market with other segments of the human rights organizations market by size and growth, historic and forecast.

Major players in the human rights organizations market are Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, Civil Rights Defenders, Human Rights Without Frontiers International, Physicians for Human Rights, Anti-Slavery International, Global Rights, UN Watch, European Centre for Minority Issues, and International Federation for Human Rights.



The human rights organizations market consists of revenue generated through human rights services by entities that are engaged in promoting causes associated with human rights either for a broad or a specific constituency. Establishments in this industry address issues such as protecting and promoting broad constitutional rights and civil liberties of individuals and those suffering from neglect, abuse, or exploitation, promoting the interests of specific groups such as children, women, senior citizens, or persons with disabilities, improving relations between racial, ethnic, and cultural groups, and promoting voter education and registration.



Organizations and human rights defenders are working towards protecting the digital human rights of individuals. According to the Pew Research poll of US adults in November 2019, the majority of Americans consider their online and offline activities are being tracked and monitored by companies and the government. Data collection has become mainstream that it breaches the privacy of individuals as everything is being tracked over the internet. To safeguard the interests of individuals using digital technology, human rights organizations are spreading awareness and are fighting to bring laws into place.



The human rights organizations market covered in this report is segmented by type of organizations into nongovernmental organizations; intergovernmental organizations; governmental organizations; international organizations and by application into all humans; children; women; disabled; LGBTQ; others.



In September 2020, Alwaleed Philanthropy, a charitable and philanthropic organization founded with a mission to help mitigate poverty and transcend international boundaries, has joined the Saudi Human Rights Commission to sign a memorandum of cooperation aimed at improving the protection of human rights of women and young people in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Human Rights Commission is a Saudi government organization working for the protection and promotion of human rights in line with international standards.



The rise in hate crimes is expected to drive the human rights organizations market. Hate crime is a form of criminal violence upon a person or property, caused in whole or in part by an offender's bias against a race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender, or gender identity. As per the annual report of FBI published in 2019, physical attacks against individuals have risen, accounting for 61% of the 7,120 cases reported by law enforcement authorities nationally as hate crimes in the USA. Government and non-governmental organizations aim to curb the abuses that challenge people's human rights, which further aids in the growth of the human rights organizations market.



Increasing attacks against human rights defenders are anticipated to hinder the human rights organization market. Attacks against human rights organizations that strive to safeguard human rights are rising at an alarming rate. For instance, in 2019, the Business and Human Rights Resource Center has tracked around 572 attack cases that were related to business-related activities, which is up from 492 cases in 2018. These attacks cause a sense of fear and timidness among individuals who work for human rights protection and challenges human rights protection activities, which thereby impedes the growth of the market.



Key Topics Covered:



1. Executive Summary



2. Human Rights Organizations Market Characteristics



3. Human Rights Organizations Market Trends and Strategies



4. Impact of COVID-19 on Human Rights Organizations



5. Human Rights Organizations Market Size and Growth

5.1. Global Human Rights Organizations Historic Market, 2015-2020, $ Billion

5.1.1. Drivers of the Market

5.1.2. Restraints on the Market

5.2. Global Human Rights Organizations Forecast Market, 2020-2025F, 2030F, $ Billion

5.2.1. Drivers of the Market

5.2.2. Restraints on the Market



6. Human Rights Organizations Market Segmentation

7. Human Rights Organizations Market Regional and Country Analysis

7.1. Global Human Rights Organizations Market, Split by Region, Historic and Forecast, 2015-2020, 2020-2025F, 2030F, $ Billion

7.2. Global Human Rights Organizations Market, Split by Country, Historic and Forecast, 2015-2020, 2020-2025F, 2030F, $ Billion

8. Asia-Pacific Human Rights Organizations Market

9. China Human Rights Organizations Market

10. India Human Rights Organizations Market

11. Japan Human Rights Organizations Market

12. Australia Human Rights Organizations Market

13. Indonesia Human Rights Organizations Market

14. South Korea Human Rights Organizations Market

15. Western Europe Human Rights Organizations Market

16. UK Human Rights Organizations Market

17. Germany Human Rights Organizations Market

18. France Human Rights Organizations Market

19. Eastern Europe Human Rights Organizations Market

20. Russia Human Rights Organizations Market

21. North America Human Rights Organizations Market

22. USA Human Rights Organizations Market

23. South America Human Rights Organizations Market

24. Brazil Human Rights Organizations Market

25. Middle East Human Rights Organizations Market

26. Africa Human Rights Organizations Market

27. Human Rights Organizations Market Competitive Landscape and Company Profiles

27.1. Human Rights Organizations Market Competitive Landscape

27.2. Human Rights Organizations Market Company Profiles

27.2.1. Amnesty International

27.2.1.1. Overview

27.2.1.2. Products and Services

27.2.1.3. Strategy

27.2.1.4. Financial Performance

27.2.2. Human Rights Watch

27.2.2.1. Overview

27.2.2.2. Products and Services

27.2.2.3. Strategy

27.2.2.4. Financial Performance

27.2.3. Civil Rights Defenders

27.2.3.1. Overview

27.2.3.2. Products and Services

27.2.3.3. Strategy

27.2.3.4. Financial Performance

27.2.4. Human Rights Without Frontiers International

27.2.4.1. Overview

27.2.4.2. Products and Services

27.2.4.3. Strategy

27.2.4.4. Financial Performance

27.2.5. Physicians for Human Rights

27.2.5.1. Overview

27.2.5.2. Products and Services

27.2.5.3. Strategy

27.2.5.4. Financial Performance



29. Key Mergers and Acquisitions in the Human Rights Organizations Market



29. Human Rights Organizations Market Future Outlook and Potential Analysis



30. Appendix



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/64mfsz

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



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SOURCE Research and Markets

Related Links

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KENNETT SQUARE, PA, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Good Gaming, Inc. (OTC MARKETS: GMER) (the "Company") today announced a correction to its press release issued on July 7, 2021, regarding its up-listing to the OTCQB Venture Market.

In the course of its OTCQB application process, the Company received an electronic correspondence from OTC Markets, which it misconstrued. As a consequence, the company inadvertently believed it had satisfied all relevant requirements to accomplish the up-listing. In fact, the company was granted OTCIQ Access by OTC Markets after completing the necessary verifications.

Although the company has filed its OTCQB application with OTC Markets and believes it is in the final period of review, it has not yet been up-listed to the OTCQB Venture Market. The company is hopeful that the up-listing will occur in the following weeks and will issue an updated press release at such time.

About Good Gaming:

Good Gaming is an innovative brand leading the gaming industry across multiple segments in the space since 2008. Beginning with our roots as a collaborative space for gamers to share their knowledge, we went on to establish ourselves as one of the leaders in hosting Hearthstone tournaments. In 2016, we expanded our reach to include establishing multiple Minecraft servers with some of the most popular versions of Prison and SkyBlock, then developing our completely custom-developed NFT DeFi crypto game, MicroBuddies, in 2021. The Good Gaming advantage comes from our development team's close relationship with the player communities of all of our games. The constant communication and resulting feedback further expand our proprietary content, and we continue to be influencers in the realm. Good Gaming continues to find exciting and innovative ways to branch across the gaming industry. As a staff and community our goal is to cement our place as a fun and collaborative place for ALL gamers to enjoy.

For more information about Good Gaming please visit our website:

https://www.good-gaming.com

We invite everyone to join our corporate supported social media platforms to engage with one another, receive reliable up-to-date accurate information, and communicate in our Good Gaming, Inc. and MicroBuddies communities.

Visit us on our social media platforms:

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/GoodGMER

https://www.facebook.com/GoodGamingMC

Twitter

https://twitter.com/microbuddies

https://twitter.com/GOODGMER

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/goodgmer/

Reddit

https://www.reddit.com/r/MicroBuddies/

Telegram Group

https://t.me/microbuddiesio

Telegram Channel

https://t.me/MicroBuddies

Discord

https://discord.com/invite/MicroBuddies

Safe Harbor

This release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements appear in a number of places in this release and include all statements that are not statements of historical fact regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of Good Gaming Inc., its directors or its officers with respect to, among other things: (i) financing plans; (ii) trends affecting its financial condition or results of operations; (iii) growth strategy and operating strategy. The words "may," "would," "will," "expect," "estimate," "can," "believe," "potential" and similar expressions and variations thereof are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Good Gaming Inc.'s ability to control, and that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. More information about the potential factors that could affect the business and financial results is and will be included in Good Gaming, Inc.'s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Public Relations and Shareholder Information:

Joseph M. Vazquez III

Phone: (888) 245-3005

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Good Gaming, Inc.
Today, thousands of children, men and women fall victim to human trafficking in the United States. One out of three is a child. The top U.S. states for trafficking routes include Georgia, New York, Texas, Florida, and Los Angeles. "Human and child trafficking is the largest modern-day slavery of our time and it is on the rise. This isn't a political issue. This is a humanitarian issue. We cannot ignore the plight, and trauma these individuals and their families experience. We want to eliminate this horrific act of evil by shedding light on this major issue and support organizations and the individuals who risk their lives every day to rescue victims of human trafficking," said Bob Unanue, President and CEO of Goya Foods.

The movie, Sound of Freedom, produced by Eduardo Verastegui, brings attention to the urgent matter of child trafficking through the heroic actions of a former government agent. As part of the pledge, Goya Cares, a global initiative, will support the release of Sound of Freedom and work directly with organizations that combat, rescue, reunite families, and rehabilitate victims including Freedom Foundation, The Eric Chase Foundation, Catholic Charities of San Antonio, Hope Rising Texas and many others.

For more information, please visit: www.goya.com

About Goya Foods

Founded in 1936, Goya Foods, Inc. is America's largest Hispanic-owned food company, and has established itself as the leader in Latin American food and condiments. Goya manufactures, packages, and distributes over 2,500 high-quality food products from Spain, the Caribbean, Mexico, Central, and South America. Goya products have their roots in the culinary traditions of Hispanic communities around the world. The combination of authentic ingredients, robust seasonings, and convenient preparation makes Goya products ideal for every taste and every table. For more information on Goya Foods, please visit www.goya.com.

Press Contact:

Natalie J. Maniscalco

845.659.6506

[email protected]

SOURCE Goya Foods, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.goya.com


Drawing inspiration from popular painting styles during the Song Dynasty period, the event featured eight segments, each highly representative of life during the era, namely:

Blue Sky After Rain

Playing the Chinese Zither Under Brightly-lit Windows

Engraving Memories

Enjoying Flowers and Drinking Tea and Yellow Wine

Fragrances of the Song Dynasty Era

Perfumed Clothes and Gorgeous Hair - Song Dynasty High Society Ladies

Leisure and Elegance

Enjoying the Charm of the Song Dynasty

On the day, 'Song of the Seven Sons', a collection of patriotic poems which has come to represent Macao's return to China, was played on the Chinese zither in the ancient Zhe School style. Additionally, a cute Peppa Pig was printed using the block printing method popular during the Song Dynasty period. There were also flowers on display arranged in Southern Song Dynasty celadon pottery. All these elements combined to ensure the culture of Song Dynasty Charm in Hangzhou instantly found a home within the context of Macao's urban style.

Other integral elements that traveled along the Maritime Silk Road on ships connecting Hangzhou and Macao were on display including an ancient method of restoring pottery, a bird cage made of imperial gold using the wire inlay technique of the Southern Song Dynasty, and imperial yellow wine reproduced exactly as it was made in the past. These are all part of the history of Song culture and highlight the fact that elegance has always been important everywhere.

In the second half of 2021 in Hangzhou, the Bureau plans to further explore the meaning and promote the new brand, Culture of Song Dynasty Charm, by hosting the 'Hangzhou Style Life of Song Dynasty Charm' and the 'Su Dongpo Culture Festival', in tandem with the launch of 'Workshops of Hangzhou Culture' which is an experiential lesson in the charm of the Song Dynasty.

SOURCE Hangzhou Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio, TV and Tourism
NOIDA, India, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A comprehensive overview of the Healthcare Cybersecurity market is recently added by UnivDatos Market Insights to its humongous database. Healthcare Cybersecurity report has been aggregated by collecting informative data of various dynamics such as market drivers, restraints, and opportunities. This innovative report makes use of several analyses to get a closer outlook on the Healthcare Cybersecurity market. Healthcare Cybersecurity report offers a detailed analysis of the latest industry developments and trending factors in the market that are influencing the market growth. Furthermore, this statistical market research repository examines and estimates Healthcare Cybersecurity at the global and regional levels. Healthcare Cybersecurity Market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 19.8% from 2021-2027 to reach US$ 41.8 billion by 2027.

Request To Download Sample of this Strategic Report- https://bit.ly/3ejbbRk

Market Overview

The Healthcare Cybersecurity market is witnessing an uptick on account of the advent of the Internet of Things (IoT) devices increasing on the medical network. IoT technologies are rapidly becoming part of the high-tech medical arena. Medical devices are now connected to the network to help doctors, nurses, and support teams provide critical care services for patients. Moreover, emerging healthcare cybersecurity spending globally is proliferating the growth of the market. , the healthcare industry is expected to spend US$ 125 Billion on Cybersecurity From 2020 to 2025, as revealed by Herjavec Group.

Moreover, the demand for cybersecurity witnessed a sharp rise due to the rise in cyber attacks due to COVID-19. Hacking patients' medical devices is a common cyberattack during the COVID-19 pandemic because more patients are using remote care. The temporary and makeshift medical facilities being used to care for people infected with the novel coronavirus have created more vulnerabilities for hackers to exploit. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) noted a 50% increase in healthcare cybersecurity breaches during the first half of 2020, highlighting that cybercriminals exploited vulnerabilities within hospitals and healthcare providers exposed by the response to COVID-19.

Request Sample Copy of this Report @ https://bit.ly/3ejbbRk

COVID-19 Impact

The pandemic has highlighted the need for adequate data security as many hospital employees started working remotely, greatly increasing the number of endpoints that needed protecting. As the workforce, in and outside of healthcare, migrated end masse to a virtual model, and so did care delivery. Several regions across the globe witnessed a sharp rise in the number of cyber-attack incidences. Central Europe tops the list of regions impacted by the spike in attacks against healthcare organizations, with a 145% increase in November, followed by East Asia, which suffered a 137% increase, and Latin America with a 112% increase. Europe and North America saw 67% & 37% increases respectively.

Healthcare Cybersecurity Market report is studied thoroughly with several aspects that would help stakeholders in making their decisions more curated.

By Components, the market is primarily bifurcated into

Solutions

Services

The solutions segment dominated the component segment and gathered 61.4% of the Healthcare Cybersecurity Market in 2020. Moreover, the market of this segment is expected to grow at 19.0% CAGR to reach US$ 24,531.4 million by the year 2027.

By Deployment, the market is primarily bifurcated into

Cloud

On-Premise

The on-premise segment grabbed the major market share in 2020 dominated the deployment type segment. The segment gathered 62.6% of the Healthcare Cybersecurity Market in 2020. Moreover, the market of this segment is expected to grow at 18.7% CAGR to reach US$ 24,617.8 million by the year 2027.

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By Type of Threats, the market is primarily segmented into

Ransomware

Malware and Spyware

Distributed Denial of Services

Advanced Persistent Threats

Others

Based on the type of threats, the ransomware segment accounted for the largest share and is expected to grow at 21.5% CAGR during the forecast period 2021-2027. In 2020, the ransomware segment generated a revenue of US$ 3.470.2 million.

By Security Type, the market is primarily segmented into

Network Security

Cloud Security

Content Security

End-Point Security

Application Security

Others

Based on the Security Type, the network security segment accounted for the largest share and is expected to grow at 18.8% CAGR during the forecast period 2021-2027. In 2020, the network security segment generated a revenue of US$ 3.823.7 million.

By Solutions, the market is primarily segmented into

Identity and Access Management

Risk and Compliance Management

Antivirus and Antimalware

Security Information and Event Management

Intrusion Detection System (IDS)

Others

Based on the Solutions type, the Intrusion Detection System (IDS) segment accounted for the largest share and is expected to reach US$ 9,750.2 million by 2027. However, the Risk and Compliance Management segment is expected to witness the highest growth of 21.8% durging the forecast period.

By End-User, the market is primarily segmented into

Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology

Health Insurance

Hospitals

Others

Based on the End-User type, the Hospitals segment accounted for the largest share and grabbed 42.2% market revenue share in 2020. The segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 20.9% during the forthcoming years.

Healthcare Cybersecurity Market Geographical Segmentation Includes:

North America

Europe

Asia-Pacific

Rest of the World

Based on the estimation, the North America region dominated Healthcare Cybersecurity Market with almost US$ 4,661.9 million in revenue in 2020. The market of the region would proliferate owing to the surging end-users preference for tele-consultations due to the ease and time savings.

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The major players targeting the market includes

Palo Alto Networks, Inc.

Sophos Ltd.

Cisco Systems, Inc.

Checkpoint Software Technologies Ltd.

IBM Corporation

McAfee LLC

Juniper Networks, Inc.

Intel Corporation

Trend Micro Incorporated

Competitive Landscape

The degree of competition among prominent regional companies has been elaborated by analyzing several leading key players operating worldwide. The specialist team of research analysts sheds light on various traits such as global market competition, market share, most recent industry advancements, innovative product launches, partnerships, mergers, or acquisitions by leading companies in Healthcare Cybersecurity Market. The leading players have been analyzed by using research methodologies for getting insight views on global competition.

Key questions resolved through this analytical market research report include:

What are the latest trends, new patterns, and technological advancements in the Healthcare Cybersecurity Market?

Which factors are influencing Healthcare Cybersecurity Market over the forecast period?

What are the global challenges, threats, and risks in Healthcare Cybersecurity Market?

Which factors are propelling and restraining Healthcare Cybersecurity Market?

What are the demanding global regions of the Healthcare Cybersecurity Market?

What will be the global market size in the upcoming years?

What are the crucial market acquisition strategies and policies applied by global companies?

We understand the requirement of different businesses, regions, and countries, we offer customized reports as per your requirements of business nature and geography. Please let us know If you have any custom needs.

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About UnivDatos Market Insights

UnivDatos Market Insights (UMI) is a passionate market research firm and a subsidiary of Universal Data Solutions. We believe in delivering insights through Market Intelligence Reports, Customized Business Research, and Primary Research. Our research studies are spread across topics across the world, we cover markets in over 100 countries using smart research techniques and agile methodologies. We offer in-depth studies, detailed analysis, and customized reports that help shape winning business strategies for our clients.

Contact

UnivDatos Market Insights

Pawnendra Pawan

Client Development Lead

Ph: +91-7838604911

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://univdatos.com/

SOURCE UnivDatos Market Insights
Each model boasts outstanding wet and snow performance and longevity, and provides strong value for consumers. The Terra Trac AT X-Journey's versatility gives CUV drivers a comfortable, quiet ride whether on their daily commute or a weekend adventure. The AT X-Venture's design and exceptional treadwear give Jeeps, utilitarian SUVs and light trucks the power to dominate off-road action and harsh winter weather and every ride in between.

Both tires are severe snow service-rated thanks to their three peak mountain snowflake certification. Each model of the Terra Trac ATX provides two distinct sidewall designs that provide drivers the ability to customize the tires in a cost-effective way. Terra Trac ATX tires are made in the U.S. and will offer 57 SKUs between the two models in 15-20 inch rim diameters.

"The Terra Trac AT II has been our most popular tire and has been extremely successful," says Josh Simpson, Senior Vice President at Hercules Tires. "But we see an opportunity to expand our brand by re-evaluating the ever-changing needs of the consumer based on the vehicles they drive and the lives they lead. These two new tires represent a reimagining of our best-selling Terra Trac AT II and add to its legacy with enhanced driving features. They also allow Hercules to cover more of the all-terrain market and supply more products to our dealers. With the growth of the SUV and light truck segments expected to continue, we can help our base of more than 3,500 independent tire dealers capture more market share."

Additional key features of both tires include the following:

3D Sipes and Silica tread compound work to provide exceptional responsive handling in wet weather conditions.

work to provide exceptional responsive handling in wet weather conditions. Alternating Shoulder Scallops are built into the shoulder design, allowing the tire to dig into tough terrains for increased traction.

are built into the shoulder design, allowing the tire to dig into tough terrains for increased traction. Tusk Grooves designed to create the perfect void to rubber ratio and keep the tread clear of mud and dirt through the support of stone ejector ribs in the grooves for increased all-terrain traction.

designed to create the perfect void to rubber ratio and keep the tread clear of mud and dirt through the support of stone ejector ribs in the grooves for increased all-terrain traction. Sound Block Technology (SBT), a system of design characteristics that collectively change the harmonics of the tire during on-road driving via tread block placement and sound barrier nodules in the outer shoulder for a quiet, comfortable ride.

Beyond the hearty construction and quality materials, the make-it-your-own customization and the all-terrain versatility, both Terra Trac ATX tires are backed by Hercules' industry leading Hercules Performance Promise, which offers 60,000-mile treadwear coverage, a 45-day "Trust Our Ride" test drive, road hazard protection and a guarantee of workmanship and materials.

For more information, visit www.herculestire.com.

About Hercules Tires

Hercules Tires is widely recognized as the industry's premier value brand with a comprehensive selection of passenger, UHP, light truck, medium truck and specialty tires. Since 1952, independent tire dealers and distributors have trusted Hercules to deliver outstanding quality, exceptional support, and unsurpassed value.



Hercules is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Tire Distributors, Inc. American Tire Distributors is one of the largest independent suppliers of tires in the North American replacement tire market. The company offers an unsurpassed breadth and depth of inventory, frequent delivery and value-added services to approximately 80,000 customers across the U.S. and Canada.

SOURCE Hercules Tires

Related Links

http://www.herculestire.com


ROCHESTER, N.Y., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- To accompany efforts in a downtown revitalization project, the vibrant and historic City of Jamestown, New York , located in the southwest corner of New York state and hometown of the legendary Lucille Ball, hired ID Signsystems to develop an urban wayfinding sign system to facilitate visitor mobility and enhance the pedestrian experience throughout their downtown, ahead of the 2021 summer tourism season.

ID Signsystems created vibrant wayfinding signage for the City of Jamestown, New York IDS used the Octopus fingerpost sign system to revitalize historic downtown City of Jamestown, New York

Working closely with the City of Jamestown project team, engineers Bergmann Architects and the New York DOT, IDS designed and installed a series of complex highway-compliant directional signs, guiding tourists to historic sites located in the city's downtown district. IDS utilized the Octopus fingerpost wayfinding system, an attractive and vibrant aluminum sign system that points pedestrians in the right direction.

Digital parking meters were also installed as part of the project. They were sourced and installed by IDS, delivering a modern parking experience for visitors to downtown Jamestown.

Through an established fast-tracked timeline that included detailed site surveys and precise design submittals to the DOT, sign design, production, and installation, IDS delivered the project in under six months, meeting the summer project timeline.

"Complex urban wayfinding projects are becoming a significant part of our signage portfolio . Jamestown has been a credit to our team as we addressed some challenging design and field obstacles and delivered a successful outcome for the city," said Paul Dudley, President, ID Signsystems.

For more information on ID Signsystems, visit www.IDSignsystems.com and find ID Signsystems on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn .

About ID Signsystems: ID Signsystems has been designing and building innovative sign solutions nationally and internationally since 2005. Headquartered in Rochester, NY, IDS offers client-focused solutions in architectural signage, design and lighting. United by a multi-layered understanding of materials and industry best practice, the IDS team are powerful partners for businesses and organizations developing both their brand and environment.

Contact: Paul Dudley

(585) 266-5750 x 208 (office)

(585) 245-2189 (cell)

[email protected]

SOURCE ID Signsystems
SEATTLE, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Horizon Air pilots, represented by the Airline Professionals Association, Teamsters Local 1224 (IBT), have voted to ratify a new wage agreement. IBT represents Horizon's more than 800 pilots.

"Thank you to the IBT, their team and company representatives who worked diligently to reach a settlement," said Carlos Zendejas, Horizon Air vice president of flight operations. "This agreement recognizes the valuable contributions of the pilot group, while also allowing the company to react and compete in changing market conditions for pilot demand."

The agreement, which passed with 74% of the vote, includes competitive wage increases aimed to attract and retain pilots.

"The Airline Professionals Association Executive Council at Horizon Air is proud to support an agreement that provides a well-deserved mid-contract wage improvement to our more than 800 members," said Hunter Chumbley, chairman, Horizon Air Pilots Executive Council. "The wage increases from this agreement provide recognition to their great work every day."

Airline employees are covered by the Railway Labor Act, so labor agreements do not expire; they become amendable and remain in effect until a new contract is ratified.

Horizon Air is a subsidiary of Alaska Air Group and flies to 63 cities across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

To learn more about career opportunities at Horizon Air, pilots can visit the careers page at http://horizonair.jobs/career-opportunities-pilots/ or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/QXPilotRecruiting/.

About Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines and its regional partners serve more than 120 destinations across the United States and to Mexico, Canada and Costa Rica. The airline emphasizes Next-Level Care for its guests, along with providing low fares, award-winning customer service and sustainability efforts. Alaska is a member of oneworld. With the global alliance and the airline's additional partners, guests can travel to more than 1,000 destinations on more than 20 airlines while earning and redeeming miles on flights to locations around the world. Learn more about Alaska at newsroom.alaskaair.com and blog.alaskaair.com. Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air are subsidiaries of Alaska Air Group (NYSE: ALK).

SOURCE Alaska Air Group
AUCKLAND, New Zealand, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Infotools , a global leader in market research analysis solutions, has released a new paper, " Survey data, meet data lake. Data lake, meet survey data ." The paper outlines powerful ways for businesses to get the most out of marketing-related data stored in a data lake, including high-value primary research data. It dives into the unique complexities of this type of data and how to best handle them, so that businesses can focus on key goals, like innovation, customer service, and the development of products and services.

Survey data, meet data lake. Data lake, meet survey data.

"We know that consumer insights are a vital data stream that many organizations are storing in their data lakes," said Geoff Lowe of Infotools. "With our lessons learned and experience working with some of the world's largest brands, we've come up with solutions that will help businesses use this data to their best advantage."

Businesses want to use their marketing-related data to help map customer journeys, understand motivations, and proactively develop products, services, and communications that will lead to organizational success. Shaping survey data properly, both on its way into and out of the data lake, is a critical part in building understanding about why consumers or customers are doing what they are doing, and informing ways to optimize their journey.

"Survey data, meet data lake. Data lake, meet survey data" explores some vital themes such as:



Optimizing the technology stack used to import and access the information stored in data lakes or other cloud-storage repositories



Handling the complexities of survey data analysis and reporting, including weighting, multi-level responses, and data relationships and comparisons



Extracting the most value from the data stored in the data lake with solutions that work within a company's existing environment, including complying with security protocols and processes.

The full paper can be downloaded here: https://web.infotools.com/survey-data-meet-data-lake

About Infotools

Infotools is an award-winning software and services provider specializing in processing, analyzing, visualizing and sharing market research data. The company offers a powerful cloud-based software platform, Harmoni, which is purpose-built for market research data, and data experts who can drive data harmonization, insights discovery, analysis, visualization and reporting. Established in 1990, and with a presence in the US, Europe, South Africa and New Zealand, Infotools works with some of the world's best-known brands, including Coca-Cola, Shell, Orange, Samsung and Mondelez. For more information, visit www.infotools.com or follow on Twitter @infotools.

Media contact: Marie Melsheimer, [email protected], +1-541-815-3951

SOURCE Infotools

Related Links

http://www.infotools.com


NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Revenues from quantum computers and related services sold to the banks and financial institutions will total $450 million by 2026, growing to just over $2 billion by 2030. This prediction comes from a new study by IQT Research, the quantum technology analyst firm based here.

Graph - Quantum Computing in Finance Inside Quantum Computing

About the Report

The new IQT Research report, Quantum Computing in Financial Services: Requirements, Applications and Expenditures, provides an assessment of which quantum computing capabilities will be most useful to financial firms, along with profiles of specialized service providers such as QuantFi, JoS QUANTUM, Nordic, Quantum Computing Group (NQCG), Multiverse Computing, Quantum Mads, QC Ware and 1Qbit.

The report is based on both primary and secondary research. The primary research included interviews with leading financial institutions as well as on the ongoing interviews carried out by IQT Research throughout the quantum technology sector and end-user base. The secondary research consists of reviews of both technical and business articles related to quantum computing as well as the websites of commercial firms and other organizations involved.

From the Report:

Forecasts to play "what if games" with. The forecasts provided in this report are of quantum hardware, software and services expenditure by the financial sector from 2021 and 2026. As with other IQT Research reports, the forecasts for this report are included in a separate spreadsheet, enabling the reader to play "what if" games. The numbers presented here are based on IQT's forecast models for the entire quantum technology market.

The forecasts provided in this report are of quantum hardware, software and services expenditure by the financial sector from 2021 and 2026. As with other IQT Research reports, the forecasts for this report are included in a separate spreadsheet, enabling the reader to play "what if" games. The numbers presented here are based on IQT's forecast models for the entire quantum technology market. Quantum computing strategies of eighteen financial institutions profiled. Many of the largest banks and other financial institutions already have substantial quantum computing teams in place. With this in mind, this report includes detailed profiles of the internal quantum computing development work being done by 18 leading financial institutions: ABN AMRO , Barclays, BBVA, BNP Paribas, CaixaBank, Citigroup, Commonwealth Bank of Australia , Goldman Sachs, HSBC, JPMorgan, Mizuho Financial Group, Mitsubishi Financial Group, NatWest, Nomura Securities, ScotiaBank, Standard Chartered, UBS and Wells Fargo.

Many of the largest banks and other financial institutions already have substantial quantum computing teams in place. With this in mind, this report includes detailed profiles of the internal quantum computing development work being done by 18 leading financial institutions: , Barclays, BBVA, BNP Paribas, CaixaBank, Citigroup, Commonwealth Bank of , Goldman Sachs, HSBC, JPMorgan, Mizuho Financial Group, Mitsubishi Financial Group, NatWest, Nomura Securities, ScotiaBank, Standard Chartered, UBS and Wells Fargo. Banks are rapidly moving towards their quantum future: IQT Research believes that financial institutions now have the capital to support significant investment in quantum computing by the banks and other related organizations in the next few years. It claims that there are  or soon will be -- abundant pioneering applications for quantum computing in financial services. Nonetheless, IQT Research says that some interviewees for this report were "frustrated" that their companies were not focusing sufficiently on the opportunities that they saw in quantum computers. Others thought their organizations were too distracted by the hype associated with quantum computing.

IQT Research believes that financial institutions now have the capital to support significant investment in quantum computing by the banks and other related organizations in the next few years. It claims that there are  or soon will be -- abundant pioneering applications for quantum computing in financial services. Nonetheless, IQT Research says that some interviewees for this report were "frustrated" that their companies were not focusing sufficiently on the opportunities that they saw in quantum computers. Others thought their organizations were too distracted by the hype associated with quantum computing. The coming quantum disruption in finance. Areas impacted by quantum computing will include trade settlements, risk modeling, accelerating AI/ML, goals-based investment, portfolio construction, tax loss harvesting, fraud detection, analytics-driven CRM, dynamic portfolio management, credit scoring, currency arbitrage, and derivative pricing. For each of these areas, the report takes a look at how quantum computing can add efficiencies and profitability to financial institutions. IQT Research believes that quantum computing has the potential to disrupt financial services to the same degree that occurred with digital computing and high frequency trading in the past.

IQT Research believes that this report will become required reading for marketing and business development executives at quantum computer companies and cloud vendors as well as managers in financial institutions themselves.

About Inside Quantum Technology

IQT Research is a division of 3DR Holdings and the first industry analyst firm dedicated to meeting the strategic information and analysis needs of the emerging quantum technology sector. In addition to publishing reports on critical business opportunities in the quantum technology sector, Inside Quantum Technology produces a daily news website on business-related happenings in quantum technology. https://www.insidequantumtechnology.com/.

3DR Holdings organizes the Inside Quantum Technology conferences. The next conference will be held November 1-5 and covers all aspects of quantum technology. It will be a hybrid event based in New York. https://iqtevent.com/fall/

For more details on the IQT Research financial services report contact:

Lawrence Gasman

Telephone: 434 825 1311

[email protected]

SOURCE IQT Research
DUBLIN, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Ireland Data Center Market - Investment Analysis and Growth Opportunities 2021-2026" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

In-depth Analysis and Data-driven Insights on the Impact of COVID-19 Included in this Ireland Data Center Market Report.



Ireland data center market to witness a CAGR of 5.47% during the period 2021-2026.



Ireland is one of the fastest-growing data center hubs in Europe. Over the past 5-7 years, the market has grown significantly, increasing the development of hyperscale data centers. The country is witnessing investments in about 20 facilities expected to be operational in the next 2-4 years. It is a favorable location for data center development due to the abundant availability of renewable energy to power data centers and the easy availability of free cooling solutions. In Ireland, over 40% of the energy mix is contributed by renewable energy and is expected to reach 70% by 2030. The majority of data center facilities under development are adding an IT power of over 15 MW.



The report considers the present scenario of the Ireland data center market and its market dynamics for the forecast period 2021-2026. It covers a detailed overview of several growth enablers, restraints, and trends in the market. The study includes the demand and supply aspects of the market.



KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF THE REPORT

TikTok is planning to build a USD 500 million data center in Dublin to store the data of its local users that are expected to be operational by 2022.

data center in to store the data of its local users that are expected to be operational by 2022. Self-built facilities by hyperscale operators will impede the growth in revenue of wholesale providers in the country.

According to Vodafone, in Ireland , there was an 18% YoY increase in the adoption of IoT technologies by businesses in 2020.

, there was an 18% YoY increase in the adoption of IoT technologies by businesses in 2020. Hyperscale investment to increase white-box and software-defined storage (SDS) adoption in the country.

The market in Ireland is witnessing significant growth in the adoption of free cooling systems, for a maximum of 8,000 hours per year.

IRELAND DATA CENTER MARKET INSIGHTS

In 2020, the Ireland data center market witnessed investments from enterprise operators like Facebook and colocation service providers such as CyrusOne, Digital Realty, Echelon Data Centres, T5 Data Centers, and JCD Group.

data center market witnessed investments from enterprise operators like Facebook and colocation service providers such as CyrusOne, Digital Realty, Echelon Data Centres, T5 Data Centers, and JCD Group. More than 60% of the business organizations have adopted public or private cloud for at least one service in the country, which is expected to reach 80% during the forecast period.

The rising investments in submarine cables are likely to attract more datacenter investments across Ireland , especially with the growing demand for hyperscale capacity.

, especially with the growing demand for hyperscale capacity. The government in the country is offering various support schemes for sustainable power systems and efficient designing schemes for data center construction.

Increasing the adoption of IoT devices in smart cities & homes, healthcare, automation industry, and new businesses in the country will increase the data volume, increasing edge datacenter investments after 2022.

Echelon Data Centres is developing an on-site substation that connects with Irish wind turbines to power its DUB20 data center.

Amazon Web Services is investing in three cloud facilities across the country, expected to be operational in the next two to three years.

IRELAND DATA CENTER VENDOR LANDSCAPE



ABB, Caterpillar, Cummins, Eaton, HITEC Power Protection, KOHLER-SDMO, Legrand, and Rolls-Royce Power Systems are some of the support infrastructure providers in the Ireland data center market. Facebook is a significant investor in the region and expanding its Clonee data center facility in the upcoming years. In April 2021, the investment company Quanta Capital acquired over 80 acres of land in Wicklow to develop a new facility.



IT Infrastructure Providers

Arista Networks

Atos

Broadcom

Cisco Systems

Dell Technologies

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE)

Huawei Technologies

IBM

Lenovo

NetApp

Construction Contractors & Sub Contractors

Arup Group

Bouygues Construction

Callaghan Engineering

Designer Group

Future-tech

ISG

Kirby Group

Mercury Engineering

Mace Group

M+W Group

PM Group

Winthrop Engineering and Contracting

Support Infrastructure Providers

ABB

Caterpillar

Cummins

Eaton

HITEC Power Protection

KOHLER-SDMO

Legrand

Rolls-Royce Power Systems

Rittal

Schneider Electric

Socomec

STULZ

Trane Technologies, and Vertiv

Investors

Amazon Web Service (AWS)

CyrusOne

Digital Realty

Equinix

EdgeConneX

Echelon Data Centres

K2 Data Centres

Facebook

T5 Data Centers

REPORT COVERAGE



This report offers analysis on the Ireland Data Center market share and in-depth analysis of the existing and upcoming facilities, datacenter investments in terms of IT, electrical, mechanical infrastructure, general construction, and geography. It discusses sizing and estimation for different segments to the investment in data centers.



The segmentation includes:



EXISTING VS. UPCOMING FACILITIES

Existing Facilities in the region (Area and Power Capacity)

Dublin

Other Cities

List of Upcoming Facilities in the region (Area and Power Capacity)

IRELAND DATA CENTER INVESTMENT COVERAGE

Infrastructure Type

IT Infrastructure

Electrical Infrastructure

Mechanical Infrastructure

General Construction

IT Infrastructure

Servers

Storage Systems

Network Infrastructure

Electrical Infrastructure

UPS Systems

Generators

Transfer Switches & Switchgears

PDUs

Other Electrical Infrastructure

Mechanical Infrastructure

Cooling Systems

Rack Cabinets

Other Mechanical Infrastructure

Cooling Systems

CRAC & CRAH Units

Chillers

Cooling Towers, & Condensers, and Dry Coolers

Economizers & Evaporative Coolers

Other Cooling Units

General Construction Services

Building Development

Installation & Commissioning Services

Building & Engineering Design

Physical Security

Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM)

Tier Standard

Tier I & Tier II

Tier III

Tier IV

Geography

Dublin

Other Cities

WHY SHOULD YOU BUY THIS RESEARCH?

Market size is available in terms of area, power capacity, investment, and colocation revenue.

An assessment of the Ireland data center investment in the market by colocation, hyperscale, and enterprise operators.

data center investment in the market by colocation, hyperscale, and enterprise operators. Datacenter investments in terms of area (square feet) and power capacity (MW) across cities.

A detailed study of the existing Ireland data center market landscape, an in-depth industry analysis, and insightful predictions about the Ireland data center market size during the forecast period.

data center market landscape, an in-depth industry analysis, and insightful predictions about the data center market size during the forecast period. Snapshot of existing and upcoming third-party facilities in Ireland

Facilities Covered (Existing): 25

Facilities Identified (Upcoming): 20

Coverage: 3 Cities

Existing vs. Upcoming (Data Center Area)

Existing vs. Upcoming (IT Load Capacity)

Datacenter colocation market in Ireland

Market Revenue & Forecast (2020-2026)

Retail Colocation Pricing

Wholesale Colocation Pricing

Classification of the Ireland data center market investments into multiple segments and sub-segments (IT, power, cooling, and general construction services) with market sizing and forecast.

data center market investments into multiple segments and sub-segments (IT, power, cooling, and general construction services) with market sizing and forecast. A comprehensive analysis of the latest trends, growth rate, potential opportunities, growth restraints, and prospects for the market.

Business overview and product offerings of prominent IT infrastructure providers, construction contractors, support infrastructure providers, and investors operating in the market.

A transparent research methodology and the analysis of the demand and supply aspect of the market

KEY QUESTIONS ANSWERED:



1. How big is the Ireland data center market?

2. How many existing data centers are there in Ireland?

3. What are the expected upcoming facilities in Ireland during the period 2021-2026?

4. Which regions are covered in this Ireland Data Center research report?

5. Who are the key investors in the Ireland Data Center Market?



Key Topics Covered:



Chapter 1 : Existing & Upcoming Third-Party Data Centers In Ireland

Chapter 2: Investment Opportunities In Ireland

Chapter 3: Data Center Colocation Market In Ireland

Chapter 4: Market Dynamics

Chapter 5: Market Segmentation

Chapter 6: Tier Standards Investment

Chapter 7: Geographic Segmentation

Chapter 8: Key Market Participants

Chapter 9: Appendix

Companies Mentioned

Arista Networks

Atos

Broadcom

Cisco Systems

Dell Technologies

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE)

Huawei Technologies

IBM

Lenovo

NetApp

Arup Group

Bouygues Construction

Callaghan Engineering

Designer Group

Future-tech

ISG

Kirby Group

Mercury Engineering

Mace Group

M+W Group

PM Group

Winthrop Engineering and Contracting

ABB

Caterpillar

Cummins

Eaton

HITEC Power Protection

KOHLER-SDMO

Legrand

Rolls-Royce Power Systems

Rittal

Schneider Electric

Socomec

STULZ

Trane Technologies, and Vertiv

Amazon Web Service (AWS)

CyrusOne

Digital Realty

Equinix

EdgeConneX

Echelon Data Centres

K2 Data Centres

Facebook

T5 Data Centers

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/9lwyy6

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

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U.S. Fax: 646-607-1904

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

SOURCE Research and Markets

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AURORA, Colo., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- James Toliver Craig, DDS is being recognized by Continental Who's Who as a Trusted Dentist for his leadership, commitment, and professional excellence in his role as President at Summerbrook Dental Group.

James Toliver Craig, DDS

Having led an impressive 14-year career of service, Dr. Craig has garnered an excellent reputation for demonstrating the highest level of professionalism, compassion, and integrity as a trusted dentist. He is currently practicing dentistry at Summerbrook Dental Group in Aurora, CO, where he utilizes his repertoire of expertise in general and cosmetic dentistry and all the latest technologies including 3D microscope, Xguide for dental implants, and the SOLEA laser to provide the best care possible. In addition to dentistry, he also offers TMJ ultrasounds and sleep medicine treatments, as well as teaches dental implant procedures for Noble Biocare, Implant Direct, and Hiossen. He is devoted to making his patients' day better, establishing positive, long-lasting relationships, and providing a safe environment for them to return for services.



To prepare for his dental career, Dr. Craig completed his undergraduate studies at Brigham Young University, where he obtained his Bachelor of Science Degree in Zoology. He went onto receive his Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree from the University of Missouri Kansas City School of Dentistry in 2006. Soon thereafter, he completed two years of research for the National Institutes of Health in bone substitutes and composites and is a contributor to many scholarly papers published in peer-reviewed journals on the topics of Bone Substitute Materials and Composite Filling material. Earlier in his career, Dr. Craig was a professor at the University of Missouri at Kansas City School of Dentistry, where he taught courses in Clinical Dentistry, Biochemistry and Histology and where he founded the International Dental Student program, bringing licensure to foreign-born dentists wishing to practice in the United States.



Remaining abreast of the latest dental advancements, Dr. Craig maintains active memberships and affiliations with several organizations including the American Dental Association, Colorado Dental Association, the Metro Denver Dental Society, the Mile High Cerec Study Club, the Academy of Osseointegration, the Integrated Dental Medicine Academy, the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and the Academy of General Dentistry. Additionally, he has contributed to many articles between 2007 and 2012.



In his rare spare time, Dr. Craig is notable for his contributions to the community. He devotes his time volunteering at the Food Bank for the Rockies and with Project: WE CAN HELP, which is an anti-bullying program sponsored by the Denver Police Department.



In looking to the future, Dr. Craig intends to help as many people as he can, especially his patients to get healthy throughout their whole lives. He wants his team to learn and grow to further their professional developments, and continue to teach dentists how to treat patients as "whole people" instead of as individual teeth.



Dr. Craig is happily married to his wife, Mrs. Angela Craig for 20 years, who often helps out at the practice. They have six children, and they all enjoy the outdoors, especially camping, snowboarding, fishing, hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. They also enjoy visiting theme parks and are often traveling to Disney, Universal, and Sea World.



For further information, please visit https://summerbrookdental.com/.

SOURCE Continental Who's Who

Related Links

http://www.continentalwhoswho.com


SUZHOU, China, July 14, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Kintor Pharmaceutical Limited (HKEX:9939) today announced that it has entered into a licensing agreement with Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Development Ltd. ("Fosun Pharma Development"), on the commercialisation of proxalutamide for the treatment of COVID-19 indication in India and 28 African countries (the"Collaboration Regions"). Kintor and Fosun Pharma Development will collaborate on the emergency use authorization applications, promotion, and sales of proxalutamide for the treatment of COVID-19 indication.

According to the licensing agreement, Fosun Pharma Development will be granted exclusive rights of registration and commercialisation of proxalutamide in the Collaboration Regions. Kintor Pharmaceutical will be eligible to receive upfront payment and milestone payments up to RMB560 million (upfront and development milestone payments up to RMB110 million and commercialisation milestone payments of RMB450 million). Kintor Pharmaceutical will also be eligible to receive royalty payments that are not less than 50% of the total operating profit in the Collaboration Regions, based on a tiered structure per the amount of net sales as agreed by both companies.

Proxalutamide is a new-generation androgen receptor (AR) antagonist. Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, Kintor Pharmaceutical has made rapid progress on the study on proxalutamide as a potential treatment for COVID-19 indication.

In 2021, Kintor Pharmaceutical received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA) to conduct phase III clinical trials with proxalutamide in patients with COVID-19. The company is now conducting two registered phase III multi-regional clinical trials (MRCT) of proxalutamide for the treatment of COVID-19 outpatients, and one phase III MRCT for COVID-19 inpatients in countries and regions including the United States, South America (including Brazil), the European Union, and Asia.

Dr. Tong Youzhi, the founder, Chairman, and CEO of Kintor Pharmaceutical, commented, "The global COVID-19 pandemic continues to infect patients and devastate communities. Kintor hopes to accelerate emergency use authorizations for proxalutamide in developing countries severely affected by the pandemic to improve the lives of patients infected with COVID-19. With Fosun Pharma Group's excellent abilities in registration and commercialisation overseas, we hope to achieve win-win in the Collaboration Regions, so that more COVID-19 patients can be benefited from proxalutamide. "

About Proxalutamide

Proxalutamide is a nonsteroidal antiandrogen  specifically, a selective high-affinity silent antagonist of the androgen receptor  that is under development for the potential treatment of COVID-19, prostate cancer, and breast cancer. Proxalutamide is currently being studied in two registered phase III multi-regional clinical trials (MRCT) for the treatment of COVID-19 outpatients, and one phase III MRCT for inpatients with COVID-19 infection in the United States, South America (including Brazil), the European Union, and Asia.

About Kintor Pharmaceutical Limited

Kintor Pharmaceutical Limited is developing and commercialising a robust pipeline of innovative small molecule and biological therapeutics for androgen-receptor-related disease areas with unmet medical needs, including COVID-19, prostate, breast and liver cancer, alopecia, and acne. For more information, visit www.kintor.com.cn.

About Fosun Pharma Development

Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Development Ltd. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical (Group) Co., Ltd. Founded in 1994, Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical (Group) Co., Ltd. ("Fosun Pharma Group";stock code: 600196.SH, 02196.HK) is a leading global pharmaceutical and healthcare provider in China. Fosun Pharma Group strategically operates businesses in the pharmaceutical and health industry, including pharmaceutical manufacturing, medical devices and medical diagnosis, healthcare services, and pharmaceutical distribution and retail. Fosun Pharma Group takes pharmaceutical manufacturing as its core business and sticks to innovative research and development. Through in-house R&D, co-development, in-licensing, and incubation, Fosun Pharma Group had established platforms for small molecule innovative drugs, antibody drugs, and cell therapy. For more information, please visit www.fosunpharma.com.

SOURCE Kintor Pharmaceuticals

Related Links

www.kintor.com.cn


BOSTON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Lantern , the leading on-demand cannabis e-commerce marketplace and home delivery platform in the U.S., today became the first recreational delivery marketplace to launch in Massachusetts. Lantern first launched in May 2020, providing legal cannabis to medical patients. The company was incubated out of Drizly, the largest online marketplace and delivery service for alcohol in North America and a market leader in Massachusetts.

Lantern's marketplace is launching in partnership with two participants of the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission's (CCC) Social Equity Program; Freshly Baked, a Taunton-based, veteran-owned cannabis brand, and We Can Deliver, a delivery courier launched through Lantern's Cannabis Delivery Incubator Program. Lantern will be first-to-market to offer recreational cannabis delivery in Boston. Customers over the age of 21 who place their orders on LanternNow.com will have access to the widest selection of cannabis products available across all categories including flower, pre-roll, edibles, vapes, concentrates, and more. The platform accepts cash, debit, and other online payment solutions, and offers flexible delivery times, including same-day delivery on most products.

These landmark partnerships enable recreational cannabis consumers in the Greater Boston area to conveniently access their favorite recreational cannabis categories and products. Prior to the CCC authorizing recreational deliveries, consumers could only purchase legal cannabis through in-store orders or curbside pickup. The pandemic accelerated demand for same-day delivery services, and Lantern's latest offering allows consumers to order cannabis conveniently from their own homes and have products delivered safely and discreetly to their doorsteps. More of Lantern's dispensary partners in surrounding communities have also recently gone live, including Cultivate and Sanctuary.

"In the past year, demand for recreational cannabis has exploded in Massachusetts, and serving this key consumer demographic is imperative to our operations as an essential industry," said Meredith Mahoney, President of Lantern. "Companies like Freshly Baked and We Can Deliver exemplify Massachusetts' inventive and tenacious spirit, and we are delighted to work with them as launch partners. Lantern and our sister company, Drizly, are headquartered in Boston, and we will leverage our existing e-commerce insights to provide an exemplary delivery and retail experience."

"We are grateful for the opportunity to not only engage with local consumers but to also play an integral role in Lantern's recreational delivery launch," said Philip Smith, Founder of Freshly Baked. "As a veteran-owned company, Freshly Baked is dedicated to serving surrounding communities by providing high quality cannabis. Lantern's impressive reputation and reach will allow small business owners like ourselves to both connect with and serve a wider range of consumers."

"We Can Deliver's motto and mission is community driven," said Gabe Salazar, Founder of We Can Deliver. "Lantern's vision aligns with our philosophy and our team looks forward to not only serving the Greater Boston area, but also creating tangible professional opportunities for local entrepreneurs interested in breaking into the industry."

About Lantern

Lantern is a leading cannabis e-commerce marketplace and delivery platform in the U.S. With the speed and convenience of on-demand delivery, Lantern partners with the best local dispensaries and cannabis brands to bring transparency, safety, and access to cannabis for both new and experienced consumers through intuitive, personalized shopping experiences. Lantern's best-in-class expertise in regulated industries helps dispensaries operationalize on-demand delivery, helping them to reach new customers, tap into key consumer insights, and diversify their businesses to grow sales.

About The Freshly Baked Company

Freshly Baked was founded in 2018 by Philip Smith and Jenny Roseman, two disabled veterans who recognized cannabis to be an effective way of managing PTSD associated with their service to our country. The company was built to be a force for positive impact in the community while increasing access to cannabis for all. Freshly Baked strives to provide The Highest Quality in everything we do. From our products to our services and support, we expect the best for our customers and partners.

About We Can Deliver

Founded in Boston in 2019 by Gabriel Salazar, We Can Deliver is the premier delivery service company for alcohol and cannabis retailers. Its mission is to provide quick deliveries and customer-first service, getting it right the first time so that you can spend your time enjoying it. We Can Deliver is committed to building up and serving its community, creating pathways for local entrepreneurs to succeed.

Media Contact

Noah Bethke

MATTIO Communications

[email protected]

SOURCE Lantern

Related Links

https://lanternnow.com


LAS VEGAS, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Las Vegas Sands (NYSE: LVS) today announced continuation of its multi-year partnership with Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth (NPHY) with a donation of $300,000 to aid Southern Nevada's most vulnerable youth. The Sands Cares funding will help NPHY strengthen services and pursue long-term solutions to help make the incidence of youth homelessness rare, brief, non-recurring and equitably addressed, as outlined in the Southern Nevada Plan to End Youth Homelessness.

Commemorating NPHY's 20th anniversary in 2021 and its outstanding track record of leadership in the fight to end youth homelessness, Sands' investment focuses on expansion and support of key NPHY programs, resources to increase organizational capability and the addition of housing capacity for youth experiencing homelessness. Since prioritizing youth homelessness as a primary Sands Cares initiative in 2015, Sands has donated more than $1,770,000 to NPHY.

The 2021 Sands Cares cumulative donation includes $100,000 designated to close out the NPHY Housing Expansion Campaign, which will enable NPHY to offset rising real estate costs to acquire the planned transitional housing facility. This funding is critical in helping NPHY address changing market conditions that had created a shortfall with the campaign's original funding goal. Sands previously donated $100,000 as a seed investor in NPHY's Housing Expansion Campaign in 2019 and engaged the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation as the other seed partner with the establishment of a $100,000 matching grant from the foundation to encourage the community's participation in the capital campaign.

The remainder of the 2021 Sands Cares donation is earmarked for production of the Southern Nevada Youth Homelessness Summit; expansion of NPHY's nighttime staffing model for its Safe Place, emergency shelter and transitional housing programs; and infrastructure support for critical operational areas such as grants administration, finance and facilities management.

Current Sands Cares funding areas build on strategic initiatives established over the course of the partnership with NPHY, which have included helping NPHY kick off the Movement to End Youth Homelessness, establishing and co-presenting the annual Southern Nevada Youth Homelessness Summit and being a primary funder of the resources to facilitate and develop the Southern Nevada Plan to End Youth Homelessness.

Sands also has consistently supported NPHY's core offerings such as its emergency shelter, drop-in center and transitional housing program. According to NPHY, this long-term commitment has enabled the organization to grow exponentially and expand service offerings in multiple areas, including increasing drop-in center hours, doubling emergency shelter beds and strengthening wraparound services such as therapy and educational support for young people experiencing homelessness. The partnership has enabled NPHY to directly impact the lives of more than 1,900 individual youth through critical services supported by Sands.

"Without Sands, we would not have been able to establish the Movement and Summit  yet Sands' involvement as a catalyst behind expansion of our offerings is much deeper than these most visible programs," said Arash Ghafoori, executive director of NPHY. "Sands has helped us grow our back-end infrastructure to sustainably support program expansion - a crucial component to successful nonprofit management that is often overlooked. The company has served as a true partner in the fight to end youth homelessness in Southern Nevada, not only as a donor, but as an investor and thought partner in our work to move the needle on this devastating issue in our community."

Another facet of Sands' long-term engagement with NPHY is the organization's participation in the invitation-only Sands Cares Accelerator, a signature Sands Cares initiative that supports rising nonprofits in expanding their capability to make greater impact in the community. NPHY will graduate from the three-year Sands Cares Accelerator at the end of 2021 having achieved future sustainability through growth and refinement of its operational infrastructure; diversification in offerings, especially in the area of advocacy and awareness; and initiation of a strategic planning process to crystallize the organization's future makeup.

Last year, Sands Cares provided NPHY with $200,000 in essential funding during the height of the pandemic to maintain operations as well as accommodate emerging needs as NPHY worked to establish stop-gap measures for youth without a safety net from family, school, employers and other support systems that were suspended or diminished because of COVID-19. The Sands Cares funding was also critical as NPHY faced intense operational impact with the loss of in-person volunteers and increased volatility of donor support and other resources affected by the pandemic.

"We are deeply committed to impacting the incidence of youth homelessness in the Las Vegas Valley, and NPHY has been our strategic and valued partner in leading that charge," said Ron Reese, senior vice president of global communications and corporate affairs at Sands. "Our continued investment is representative of the tremendous results we've seen NPHY achieve for our community's vulnerable youth, as well as its leadership in developing long-term solutions to address the issue. This partnership has been one of the most impactful Sands Cares initiatives we've undertaken."

About Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE: LVS)

Las Vegas Sands is the world's preeminent developer and operator of world-class Integrated Resorts. We deliver unrivaled economic benefits to the communities in which we operate.

Sands created the meetings, incentives, convention and exhibition (MICE)-based Integrated Resort. Our industry-leading Integrated Resorts provide substantial contributions to our host communities including growth in leisure and business tourism, sustained job creation and ongoing financial opportunities for local small and medium-sized businesses.

Our properties include The Venetian Resort and Sands Expo in Las Vegas, and the iconic Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. Through majority ownership in Sands China Ltd. , we have developed the largest portfolio of properties on the Cotai Strip in Macao, including The Venetian Macao , The Plaza and Four Seasons Hotel Macao , The Londoner Macao and The Parisian Macao , as well as the Sands Macao on the Macao Peninsula.

Sands is dedicated to being a good corporate citizen, anchored by the core tenets of serving people, planet and communities. We deliver a great working environment for our team members worldwide, drive social impact through the Sands Cares community engagement and charitable giving program and lead in environmental performance through the award-winning Sands ECO360 global sustainability program. To learn more, please visit www.sands.com .

About Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth

NPHY is the most comprehensive service provider for the thousands of homeless youth in Southern Nevada, serving hundreds of youth through our core programs and touching the lives of thousands more through outreach each year. NPHY's programs stabilize homeless teens' lives, meeting their immediate needs and providing a safe, supportive environment and a path to self-sufficiency. Through our work with homeless youth, NPHY creates productive, healthy adults who contribute to society. Strengthening and complementing our high-quality direct services for homeless youth, NPHY is dedicated to advocating with and for the Vegas Valley's homeless youth population and serves as a leader in systems-level efforts to eliminate homelessness among Nevada's youth. For more information or to support our life-changing work for homeless youth, please visit www.nphy.org.

Contacts:

Las Vegas Sands

Kristin Koca

[email protected]

702.414.3218

NPHY

Lanette Rivera

[email protected]

702.688.1013

SOURCE Las Vegas Sands Corp.

Related Links

http://www.sands.com


With a line of broad spectrum THC-free products formulated by Ph.D. scientists, Fourth Power Labs offers a unique cannabinoid blend that is CBD and CBG rich and complemented by a proprietary blend of terpenes to enhance therapeutic benefits. Additionally, all Fourth Power Labs products are tested by Eurofins, the CBD industry's leading independent laboratory, providing unparalleled transparency and confidence in product quality, purity, and consistent dosing levels.

Doug Bowman, Letco Med's CEO, said, "We strongly believe in the benefit CBD products play in patients' lives and ascribe to Fourth Power's belief that its products are best administered under the guidance of Medical Professionals. Given Fourth Power Labs' quality, unique formulations, and testing rigor that is unmatched in the industry, we're very excited to offer its line of products to Letco's large base of independent compounding pharmacies. We believe Fourth Power's products perfectly fit the needs of our customers and their patients."

Fourth Power Labs Co-founder and CEO, Greg Lake, stated, "This exclusive partnership with Letco furthers our commitment to independent pharmacies. Letco's professional sales force can quickly and expertly offer our products to its discriminating customers who understand the value that Fourth Power brings to their businesses and patients. Letco's loyal customer base supports our view that patient use of CBD based products is best guided by Medical Professionals  including compounding pharmacists  who are experts in that regard."

Fourth Power Labs products are now available through Letco Med's website (www.letcomed.com) or by calling the Letco sales team at (800) 239-5288.

About Letco Medical, LLC

Letco Medical, LLC ("Letco Med"), a 100% employee-owned company headquartered in Wayne, PA, is the supply partner of choice for profit-conscious compounding pharmacies everywhere. Letco Med has invested heavily in building a company that can serve the needs of compounding pharmacists today, tomorrow and into the future, with a full line of products and complementary programs and services. With a dedicated focus on the US compounding market, Letco Med provides a comprehensive portfolio of safe and consistent top-quality chemicals, covering a broad range of therapeutic categories, as well as supplies, a deep assortment of dosage forms and delivery systems, pre-made topical bases, capsules, and equipment.

Since its inception in 1993, Letco Med has earned and built a reputation as one of the most innovative companies in the compounding industry. Letco Med focuses on unwavering quality, exemplified by its industry-leading quality assurance programs, stringent quality control procedures and an unmatched record with the FDA.

About Fourth Power Labs

Fourth Power Labs, a 100% employee-owned and operated business based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, serves the market with a broad spectrum hemp-derived THC-free CBD product line that delivers unmatched quality created specifically for Medical Professionals and their patients. Fourth Power Labs' exclusive pharmaceutical-grade hemp-derived products meet strict safety standards and provide full transparency through lot-specific certificates of analysis available on all products. The company was founded in 2019 by pharmaceutical industry veterans with decades of success and experience in highly regulated FDA environments. Fourth Power Labs' leadership brought strict pharmaceutical disciplines to the establishment of its supply chain, and research and development performed by its Ph.D. scientists to formulate its products before launching in early 2021. The company's distribution operations are performed by the CBD industry's only CFR 210/211 compliant facility that is regularly inspected by the FDA.

SOURCE Letco Medical

Related Links

letcomedical.com


MUMBAI, India, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Larsen & Toubro Infotech (BSE: 540005) (NSE: LTI), a global technology consulting and digital solutions company, announced its Q1 FY22 results today.

In US Dollars:

Revenue at USD 470.2 million ; growth of 5.1% QoQ and 20.4% YoY

; growth of Constant Currency Revenue growth of 4.8% QoQ and 17.8% YoY

In Indian Rupees:

Revenue at INR 34,625 million ; growth at 5.9% QoQ and 17.4% YoY

; growth at Net Income at INR 4,968 million; decrease of 9.0% QoQ and growth of 19.3% YoY

Capital Return

Special dividend of INR 10 per share to commemorate the completion of 5 years of listing on the stock exchanges in India

"We are pleased to report our best ever Q1 sequential growth of 5.1% driven by holistic growth across our verticals, service lines, client pyramid and geographies. Our healthy pipeline and continued strong demand makes us confident of our future growth.

"Q1 also marks the 5-year anniversary of LTI's IPO and our Board has declared a special dividend to commemorate this occasion. Over these past 5 years, we have delivered USD revenue CAGR of 13.5% and more than doubled our net profit. I am proud of how we continue to innovate and deliver year on year industry leading growth. I am also excited as we strengthen our digital engineering capabilities welcoming Cuelogic Technologies to the LTI family."

- Sanjay Jalona, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director



Recent Deal Wins

A Global Fortune 500 energy distribution company has selected LTI for a managed security services deal including L1 SOC and end-to-end support for all security applications. As part of this engagement, LTI will enable a threat intelligence led security operation to reduce business risk

A key Middle East player in the renewables and oil & gas energy market has selected LTI, through its strategic partnership with a regional digital transformation leader for migration to cloud, modernization and management of its entire IT landscape

player in the renewables and oil & gas energy market has selected LTI, through its strategic partnership with a regional digital transformation leader for migration to cloud, modernization and management of its entire IT landscape LTI has been selected for an end-to-end IT managed services deal including set up of processes and tools, security operations and monitoring solutions for the divested unit of a global manufacturer and supplier of specialty chemicals based in North America

The subsidiary of one of the largest banks in Asia has chosen to partner with LTI for the implementation, integration and maintenance support of their private banking platform using Temenos Wealth

has chosen to partner with LTI for the implementation, integration and maintenance support of their private banking platform using Temenos Wealth A global semiconductor major based in Europe partnered with LTI to re-design and harmonize its business processes with SAP S/4HANA to make them more scalable, efficient, agile, and flexible

partnered with LTI to re-design and harmonize its business processes with SAP S/4HANA to make them more scalable, efficient, agile, and flexible A multinational company providing energy related solutions based in North America has selected LTI to transform its front and middle office processes using SAP S/4HANA enabling simplification of operations, improved customer experience and cost optimization

has selected LTI to transform its front and middle office processes using SAP S/4HANA enabling simplification of operations, improved customer experience and cost optimization A North American property and casualty insurance company has selected LTI for network support and data base management to ensure seamless operations support round the clock. This will help accelerate their cloud journey

An insurance broker based in North America has selected LTI to transform and digitize its business operations in one of its key growth segments. This would include its prospecting, sales, and servicing processes to make them modern, offer more choice to customers, scale the business efficiently and drive business decisions through data and analytics

has selected LTI to transform and digitize its business operations in one of its key growth segments. This would include its prospecting, sales, and servicing processes to make them modern, offer more choice to customers, scale the business efficiently and drive business decisions through data and analytics A North American provider of integrated services, delivery and manufacturing solutions for pharmaceuticals, biologics and consumer health product companies, has selected LTI to support its applications and ERP systems to ensure operational efficiency and cost-effective solutions

A world-renowned stock market index has selected LTI as a cloud infrastructure and engineering partner to support its multi-year cloud adoption journey

Awards and Recognitions

LTI recognized in Gartner 2021 Magic Quadrant for Oracle Cloud Application Services, Worldwide

LTI Leni recognized by Forrester Research as a sample anomaly detection vendor in The Forrester Tech Tide: Customer Insights Methods, Q2 2021

LTI Recognized as a Leader in the ISG Provider Lens ServiceNow Ecosystem Partners Report, US 2021

LTI Leni recognized as a Representative Vendor in Gartner Market Guide for Augmented Analytics Tools, Austin Kronz et al., 28 June 2021

Gartner Magic Quadrant for Oracle Cloud Application Services, Worldwide, Katie Gove et al., 24 May 2021

Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose

Other Business Highlights

The Board of Directors at its meeting held on July 15 th , 2021 have declared a special dividend of INR 10 per equity share (Face value of INR 1) to commemorate the completion of 5 years of listing on the stock exchanges in India

, 2021 have declared a special dividend of INR 10 per equity share (Face value of INR 1) to commemorate the completion of 5 years of listing on the stock exchanges in LTI acquired Cuelogic Technologies, a Digital Engineering and Outsourced Product Development company

LTI won multiple accolades at the Institutional Investor 2021 Rest of Asia ex-Mainland China Executive Team rankings. LTI has been ranked amongst the top 3 across all sell-side categories in the Technology/IT Services & Software space: #2 Best CEO, #3 Best CFO, #3 Best ESG, #2 Best IR Program and #1 Best IR Professional. It was also recognized in the 'Most-Honored' Companies Asia List 2021

ex-Mainland China Executive Team rankings. LTI has been ranked amongst the top 3 across all sell-side categories in the Technology/IT Services & Software space: #2 Best CEO, #3 Best CFO, #3 Best ESG, #2 Best IR Program and #1 Best IR Professional. It was also recognized in the 'Most-Honored' Companies Asia List 2021 LTI has been recognized as the Global Innovation Partner of the Year by Snowflake, the Data Cloud Company

LTI Syncordis has been recognized as Temenos Service Partner of the Year

About LTI

LTI (NSE: LTI) is a global technology consulting and digital solutions Company helping more than 435 clients succeed in a converging world. With operations in 31 countries, we go the extra mile for our clients and accelerate their digital transformation with LTI's Mosaic platform enabling their mobile, social, analytics, IoT and cloud journeys. Founded in 1997 as a subsidiary of Larsen & Toubro Limited, our unique heritage gives us unrivalled real-world expertise to solve the most complex challenges of enterprises across all industries. Each day, our team of more than 36,000 LTItes enable our clients to improve the effectiveness of their business and technology operations and deliver value to their customers, employees and shareholders. Find more at http://www.Lntinfotech.com or follow us at @LTI_Global.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1044154/LTI_Logo.jpg

SOURCE LTI
CANBERRA, Australia, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Maram Susli, also known in international journalist and blogger community as "Syrian Girl" just issued a new short movie about situation in Syria. In her new investigation "Syrian Girl" breaks down the recent rebranding of Al-Qaeda. The young blogger shows the situation in Syria without embellishment and she even presents several official documents proving the ambiguous connections of the Syrian terrorists.

Syrian Girl

Courage and open-mindedness have always characterized the work of "Syrian Girl." Susli constantly speaks about the war in Syria since 2011. One of her videos on YouTube was viewed over 50.000 times. Despite "conspiracy theory" arguments may appear questionable to many, but facts and facts and documents that she shows make you look at the situation from a different angle.

Susli aka "Syrian Girl" uses a variety of platforms to disseminate her ideas. Several times she was blocked but she always finds new ways to deliver news: "It became my duty as a Syrian to inform the world of the true nature of terrorism. Rebranding Al Qaeda's Syrian branch to HTS is the step to get support from the West, get new weapons and continue to tear Syria apart.

"It is of importance that we use all means to spread these facts. The global audience must be aware of what is going on. Freedom of information is a basic right we should all fight for."

The new film is available on the Syrian Girl YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yptCJluGhbg

Contact:

Maram Susli

+61251040615

[email protected]

SOURCE Syrian Girl Blog
CHICAGO, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a new market research report "Marine and Marine Management Software Market by Component (Software and Services), Location (Onboard and Onshore), Application (Crew Management, Port Management, and Reservation Management), Deployment Mode, End User, and Region - Global Forecast to 2026", published by MarketsandMarkets, the global Marine and Marine Management Software Market size to grow from USD 1.7 billion in 2021 to USD 2.9 billion by 2026, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11.2% during the forecast period.

Factors such as rising need to efficiently manage complex supply chain operations, increase sustainability across marine industry, and increasing demand for centralized administrative of data to reduce overall shipment costs and enhance shipyard productivity are driving the adoption of the marine software market across the globe.

Browse in-depth TOC on "Marine and Marine Management Software Market"

258  Tables

59  Figures

278  Pages

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=261841744

COVID-19 is disrupting the world, businesses, and economies, thus impacting on the livelihood of people live, their interaction, and the way they manage their businesses. The ability to sustain has become the new normal for enterprises as they shift their focus from growth opportunities and concentrate on implementing drastic measures to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The competition among major marine software companies is expected to be furious as most upcoming projects are kept on hold due to the pandemic. Hence, several companies will fight to gain a single project. Businesses have already started their efforts to return back to normal and are facing multiple challenges on the customer as well as operational side. In a short time, the COVID-19 outbreak has caused the shipping and maritime industry to face the nastiest circumstances as the workforce in these sectors has been shut down for the safety and prevention of the increase of the pandemic. This impediment has also been affected due to the standstill of all kinds of cargos via water or air during this isolation period as the transportation of such cargos in ships or through the air can be possibly carrying with it the virus from one port to another. All the trade chains, including the major import and export trade, is in the face with a breakdown. Moreover, a ban has also been imposed by various countries on the entry of containers and vessels that are being operated from other ports, especially those that are transported from China. Such obstructed operations have hampered with the logistics and operations of the maritime industry. The maritime, transport and shipping industry is coated with foremost challenges during these pandemic times.

The services segment to hold higher CAGR during the forecast period

Based on components, the Marine and Marine Management Software Market is segmented into solutions and services. The services segment has been further divided into professional and managed services. These services play a vital role in the functioning of marine software, as well as ensure faster and smoother implementation that maximizes the value of the enterprise investments. The growing adoption of marina software is expected to boost the adoption of professional and managed services. Professional service providers have deep knowledge related to the products and enable customers to focus on the core business, while MSPs help customers improve business operations and reduce overall expenses.

The crew management segment to hold the largest market size during the forecast period

Application segment for the Marine and Marine Management Software Market are segmented into crew management, port management, harbor management, vessel management, and cruise management. Crew management application segment to hold largest market share during the forecast period, owing to the growing concern of marine companies to track performance of the crew and enhance overall productivity. Crew management helps assign tasks and hiring and tracking performance. Crew management helps allocate the right people for the right job. It is also used to track labor hours and manage crews on marinas, ships, and vessels. It plays an important role in optimizing the operations and track the performance of the crew in various departments, such as the maintenance team and inventory management team.

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Defense end user segment to account for higher CAGR during the forecast period

The Marine and Marine Management Software Market is bifurcated on the basis of end user such as commercial and defense. Defense end user includes the naval ships and the military ships that implement marine software to manage naval operations and safeguard defense communication system from cyberattacks. The defense end user implement marine software and services to build enhance their ships at more competitive prices and with a shorter production cycle, thereby improving future fleet availability, adaptability, and reliability.

The large enterprises segment to hold a larger market size during the forecast period

The Marine and Marine Management Software Market has been segmented by organization size into large enterprises and SMEs. The market for SMEs is expected to register a higher CAGR during the forecast period as cloud-based solutions and services help them improve business performance and enhance productivity. Whereas the large enterprises segment is expected to hold a larger market share in the Marine and Marine Management Software Market during the forecast period due to the affordability and the acceptance of emerging technologies suh as AI, big data and Blockchain.

Cloud segment to have the larger market size during the forecast period

The Marine and Marine Management Software Market by deployment mode has been categorized into cloud and on-premises. The cloud segment is expected to have a larger market size during the forecast period. The growth rate of the cloud segment is attributed to the availability of easy deployment options, scalability, and minimal requirements of capital and time. These factors support the current lockdown scenario of COVID-19 as social distancing and the lack of crew workforce has adversely affected the growth among end users.

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APAC to hold higher CAGR during the forecast period

APAC is expected to grow at a good pace during the forecast period. Opportunities for shipping and boatyards companies to implement marine software for enhanced shipping experience and reduction in overall shipping costs. All these factors are responsible for the expeditious growth of the Marine and Marine Management Software Market in the region. Companies operating in APAC continue to focus on improving customer services to drive market competitiveness and revenue growth. China, Japan, and South Korea have displayed ample growth opportunities in the marine and marine management software market.

Major vendors in the global Marine and Marine Management Software Market Oracle (US), ABB (Switzerland), DockMaster (US), Marina Master (Slovenia), Marinacloud (Croatia), Lloyd's Register (UK), TIMEZERO (France), Scribble Software (US), MarineCFO (US), Chetu (US), MESPAS (Switzerland), Dockwa (US), Swell Advantage (Canada), Marina Ahoy (Estonia), Harba (Denmark), Harbour Assist (UK), Havenstar (England), Gestalt Systems (Germany), Seahub (US), BlueShell (Switzerland), Raymarine (UK), Ayden Marine (Turkey), OceanManager (US), Innovez One (Singapore), RMS (Australia), Nautical Software (US), and CorVant (US).

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Our 850 fulltime analyst and SMEs at MarketsandMarkets are tracking global high growth markets following the "Growth Engagement Model  GEM". The GEM aims at proactive collaboration with the clients to identify new opportunities, identify most important customers, write "Attack, avoid and defend" strategies, identify sources of incremental revenues for both the company and its competitors. MarketsandMarkets now coming up with 1,500 MicroQuadrants (Positioning top players across leaders, emerging companies, innovators, strategic players) annually in high growth emerging segments. MarketsandMarkets is determined to benefit more than 10,000 companies this year for their revenue planning and help them take their innovations/disruptions early to the market by providing them research ahead of the curve.

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MarketsandMarkets INC.

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PLANO, Texas, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Martin UAV, a leading Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) manufacturer, will for the first time publicly unveil its V-BAT 128 aircraft -- recently selected by the U.S. Navy for a prototyping and development program -- at the 2021 Sea-Air-Space Conference in National Harbor, Maryland, from August 2 through August 4.

Martin UAV

The V-BAT 128 is ideally suited for a wide array of sea, air and land missions. With its innovative, near-zero footprint vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) and long-endurance capabilities, the V-BAT 128 is unlike any unmanned aircraft system (UAS) on the market. Its design makes transportation and rapid tactical deployment easy and safe. It can be assembled by two personnel in less than 30 minutes, and the aircraft's duct fan propulsion design eliminates exposed rotors.

Martin UAV is currently enhancing and customizing the V-BAT 128 for the Navy, reflecting the firm's responsiveness to the military's mission requirements and the UAS industry as a whole.

"We're pleased to have the opportunity to participate in the Sea-Air-Space Expo, so we can officially unveil the V-BAT 128 model to the defense industry and key decision-makers," said Ruben Martin, owner and CEO of Martin UAV, and recently elected Chairman of the Board for Mercy Ships International. "We continue to push the boundaries of what's possible and are proud to offer UAS technology that serves a broad range of mission needs."

In April, the Navy awarded Martin UAV's V-BAT for a VTOL UAS prototyping and development effort in order to fulfill new technological requirements driven by the changing nature of threats in austere operating environments.

Martin UAV was one of 13 respondents to the Navy's Mi2 Challenge and was later selected with L3Harris Technologies to compete in a technology demonstration at the Yuma Proving Grounds in Yuma, Arizona. Defense industry media noted Martin UAV was an underdog winner in the challenge.

At Yuma, the V-BAT 128 demonstrated its "hover and stare" and high-endurance capabilities and its automatic transition to straight and level flight. The V-BAT 128 also features open architecture and the capability to carry interchangeable payloads.

"Martin UAV's V-BAT is designed to assist and support forces in an ever-changing landscape, and is now positioned to reshape mission requirements and operational capabilities," said Heath Niemi, Martin UAV's Chief Development Officer and retired U.S. Army colonel.

The 2021 Sea-Air-Space Conference will include informative educational sessions, important policy discussions, and a dynamic exhibit hall floor. Online corporate sessions and exhibits will be accessible through the Sea-Air-Space mobile and desktop app and also will feature Zoom integration for face-to-face visits.

Martin UAV will be at Booth #414 to officially unveil the V-BAT 128 and invites you to visit the Martin UAV events page to register for the conference. For more information about Martin UAV, visit martinuav.com.

About Martin UAV

Martin UAV is a private, advanced-technology company based in Plano, Texas. The company specializes in building wholly unique, unmanned aircraft systems and associated flight control software. The company's systems are commercially developed to fill critical operational needs in tactical and confined operational environments. Its V-BAT series aircraft is the only single-engine ducted fan VTOL that has the ability to launch and recover from a hover, fly over 11 hours in horizontal flight and make mid-flight transitions to "hover and stare" at any time throughout a given mission set. To learn more about Martin UAV, visit www.martinuav.com.

About the 2021 Sea-Air-Space Conference

The Sea-Air-Space Conference is presented by the Navy League of the United States and is a trade show highlighting the latest information and technology relevant to maritime. To learn more about this year's event, click here.

Contact:

Mike Albanese I Newswire

Email: [email protected]

Ester Peres I Martin UAV

Phone: +1 214.240.6659

Email: [email protected]

Related Images

martin-uav-v-bat.jpg

Martin UAV - V-BAT

SOURCE Martin UAV
BRISBANE, Australia, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Sustainably led hospitality company Crystalbrook Collection has today unveiled Crystalbrook Vincent in the heart of Brisbane's Howard Smith Wharves. Brave, bold and vibrant, Crystalbrook Vincent is passionate about the environment and in touch with its artistic side.

Set beneath the iconic Story Bridge, Crystalbrook Vincent, formerly known as The Fantauzzo, is Crystalbrook Collection's seventh property to open in three years; the acquisition making the group Australia's largest independent five-star portfolio of hotels and resorts*.

Sustainable five-star luxury in Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane, Australia

Crystalbrook Collection owner Ghassan Aboud said: "Hospitality has always been an area of business I've wanted to invest in. I'm very proud of what my team has achieved in the past three years to now lead Australia's largest independent five-star portfolio."

Speaking on the opening of Crystalbrook Vincent, CEO Geoff York said: "Our initial focus is to elevate the hotel's focus on sustainability. We're introducing a single-use, plastic-free environment and 100% waste-free bathrooms where everything is reusable, recyclable or biodegradable."

"We're working to minimise our food carbon footprint by ensuring that at least 80% of all produce served within the hotel is sourced within a three-hour radius, and we're embracing technology to reduce the need for waste, such as paperless check in and check out and in-room tablet control centres," he said.

The hotel will retain its partnership with namesake Vincent Fantauzzo. Over 500 pieces of the acclaimed Australian painter's artworks feature throughout the six-story hotel.

"I'm thrilled to be working with Crystalbrook Vincent and to take our partnership to a new level. I love what Crystalbrook Collection is doing with sustainability; this is something very important to me personally - it opens the door for exciting new collaborations, which I hope will enhance guest's experience and inspire creativity. I'm looking forward to it," said Vincent.

Hospitality leader, Jeremy Nordkamp will lead Crystalbrook Vincent as General Manager, bringing with him extensive experience in the field, most recently at Crystalbrook Riley in Cairns and as the opening General Manager of Brisbane's own Calile Hotel.

"I'm thrilled to be continuing my journey with Crystalbrook Collection as we grow the portfolio and lead the way in five-star sustainable hospitality.

"Brisbane has taken giant leaps in the hospitality scene in recent years, and I'm excited to be working with a fantastic group of professionals elevating this destination hotel to new heights," said Jeremy.

About Crystalbrook Vincent

Boasting 166 rooms, Fuime rooftop bar, Polpetta restaurant, a rooftop pool and a 24-hour fitness centre, Crystalbrook Vincent is energised, inspired and hyperlocal.

Highlights at a glance:

Sensational Howard Smith Wharves location

Views of Brisbane River and the iconic Story Bridge

180 different artworks and over 500 prints by the acclaimed Vincent Fantauzzo

Single-use plastic-free environment

100% waste-free bathrooms

Cash-free and a 90% reduction in paper

Use of recycled and upcycled materials throughout the hotel. Examples include key cards made from recycled wood, coat hangers made from recycled paper and toothbrushes made from sugar cane and cornstarch

In-room tablet control centre

Mobile room access

STAYCAST by Google video streaming and complimentary recent release movies

For bookings and more information, visit crystalbrookcollection.com/Vincent.

Related Images

crystalbrook-vincent.jpg

Crystalbrook Vincent

Sustainable five-star luxury in Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane, Australia

SOURCE Crystalbrook Collection
PORTLAND, Ore., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Meredith Corporation announced today that it has promoted Corey Hanson to Vice President and General Manager of its Portland, Oregon, duopoly KPTV (FOX12 Oregon) and KPDX (FOX12 Plus  MyNetwork), effective August 2, 2021. Hanson currently serves as VP and General Manager of WALA, Meredith's FOX affiliate in the Mobile, Alabama/Pensacola, Florida, market. This is a return home for Hanson, who served as Station Manager at KPTV/KPDX before accepting the VP/General Manager position at WALA. She will succeed Adrienne Roark, who will be leaving KPTV/KPDX for a new opportunity at the end of July.

Meredith Promotes Corey Hanson to Vice President and General Manger of Portland Duopoly KPTV & KPDX

"Corey's leadership has been invaluable to Meredith since she first joined KPTV/KPDX in 2004 and through her time at WALA. She has a proven record of ratings success and a passion for innovative non-traditional projects that generate revenue, community involvement, and team building," said Meredith Local Media Group President Patrick McCreery. "Corey led the WALA team through COVID-19, one of the most challenging periods in our industry's and country's history. I am confident that her experience and results-driven leadership will make a lasting impact on the KPTV/KPDX team and the community."

Hanson joined Meredith in 2004 as an Executive Producer at KPTV/KPDX before being promoted to Creative Services Director, Executive News Director, and Station Manager. Under her leadership, KPTV/KPDX saw ratings growth in all day parts and achieved the number one audience position for morning and late news. The duopoly has held that number one position for over a decade. Hanson also helped launch nine newscasts, producing nearly 70 hours of weekly news content.

Before joining Meredith, Hanson began her career as a news producer at KOIN (CBS) before moving to KGW (NBC), both in Portland.

"I am so grateful to the team at WALA FOX 10 for their perseverance, hard work, and genuine care for their community and one another during the past year. I am very proud of this team and its many accomplishments," said Hanson. "I am equally grateful to return to Portland and continue to build on the FOX12 team's success. I couldn't be more thrilled to get started."

Hanson is a member of the National Association of Broadcasters Diversity Equity & Inclusion Advisory Committee, National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, and the Radio Television Digital News Association. She earned her bachelor of arts degree in rhetoric and media studies from Willamette University in Salem, Oregon, and a certificate in business essentials from the University of North Carolina Kenan-Flagler Business School.

Meredith Corporation (NYSE: MDP), a leading media company for nearly 120 years, produces service journalism that engages audiences with essential, inspiring, and trusted content. Meredith reaches consumers where they are across multiple platforms, including digital, video, magazine, and broadcast television.

Meredith's Local Media Group portfolio comprises 17 television stations reaching 11 percent of U.S. households and 30 million viewers. Meredith's portfolio is concentrated in large, fast-growing markets, with seven stations in the nation's Top 25 markets, including Atlanta, Phoenix, St. Louis, and Portland, and 13 stations in the Top 50.

SOURCE Meredith Corporation

Related Links

https://www.meredith.com


SAN FRANCISCO, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The global micro-mobility charging infrastructure market size is expected to reach USD 16.64 billion by 2028, registering a CAGR of 23.4% from 2021 to 2028, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Increasing awareness about green transportation modes is expected to propel the adoption of Micro-mobility across the globe. This, as a result, is expected to create growth opportunities for the market over the forecast period.

Nowadays, Micro-mobility is preferred over public transportation owing to the increasing awareness about hygiene. Moreover, as congestion in urban cities is increasing at a rapid pace, consumers are focusing on adopting shared e-bikes. Increasing consumer demand for Micro-mobility is further expected to drive market growth over the forecast period.

Key Insights & Findings:

Numerous Micro-mobility companies are focusing on implementing dock less systems for e-scooters in parking zones. This, as a result, is expected to propel the e-scooters segment growth over the forecast period

The wireless segment is expected to witness significant growth over the forecast period. The wireless charging stations are made of coil technology and magnetic concrete, which enables widespread alignment tolerance and better vertical wireless power transmission distance

E-scooters and e-bike users are focusing on using solar-powered charging stations. Moreover, these stations are simpler to integrate with vehicle charging tools. Various buildings with solar panels can charge the vehicle's batteries through these stations

Smart cities and smart workplace initiatives across the globe are expected to create awareness among Micro-mobility customers. This, as a result, is expected to create growth opportunities for the residential segment over the forecast period

Around 50 million people in the U.S. travel using bicycles regularly. This, in turn, is expected to fuel the growth of the regional market

Read 150 page market research report, "Micro-mobility Charging Infrastructure Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Vehicle Type (E-scooters, E-bikes), By Charger Type, By Power Source, By End Use, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2021 - 2028'', by Grand View Research

With cities across the globe are focusing on solving their transportation crisis amid increasing concerns about gas-powered emissions, Micro-mobility is emerging as an efficient alternative to public transit. The increasing adoption of e-scooters and e-bikes to lower the environmental footprint and improve the method of transportation is expected to propel market growth over the forecast period. Numerous startups across the globe have raised venture capital, thereby creating growth opportunities for the market.

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic is expected to adversely impact the market. With the number of passengers, kilometers toured declining 50% to 60% across the globe since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of Micro-mobility charging infrastructure has declined dramatically. However, the market is expected to make a strong post-pandemic recovery owing to the rising awareness about social distancing and ease of access through Micro-mobility.

Grand View Research has segmented the global micro-mobility charging infrastructure market based on vehicle type, charger type, power source, end use, and region:

Micro-mobility Charging Infrastructure Vehicle Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

E-scooters



E-bikes



E-unicycles



E-skateboards

Micro-mobility Charging Infrastructure Charger Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

Wired



Wireless

Micro-mobility Charging Infrastructure Power Source Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

Solar Powered



Battery Powered

Micro-mobility Charging Infrastructure End-use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

Commercial



Residential

Micro-mobility Charging Infrastructure Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

North America



U.S.





Canada



Europe



Germany





U.K.





Spain



Asia Pacific



China





Japan





India



Latin America



Brazil



Middle East & Africa

List of Key Players of Micro-mobility Charging Infrastructure Market

Ather Energy

bike-energy

Bikeep

Flower Turbines

Get Charged, Inc.

Giulio Barbieri SRL

Ground Control Systems

Magment GmbH

Perch Mobility

Robert Bosch GmbH

Solum PV

SWIFTMILE

The Mobility House GmbH

Check out more studies related to electric vehicles, by Grand View Research:

Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Market  The global electric vehicle charging infrastructure market size was valued at USD 15.06 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 33.4% from 2021 to 2028.

 The global electric vehicle charging infrastructure market size was valued at in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 33.4% from 2021 to 2028. On-Demand Transportation Market  The global on-demand transportation market size was valued at USD 75.0 Billion in 2017 and is anticipated to expand at CAGR of 19.8% from 2018 to 2025.

 The global on-demand transportation market size was valued at in 2017 and is anticipated to expand at CAGR of 19.8% from 2018 to 2025. Electric Scooters Market  The global electric scooters market size was estimated at USD 18.6 billion in 2019.

Browse through Grand View Research's coverage of the Global Automotive & Transportation Industry.

Gain access to Grand View Compass, our BI enabled intuitive market research database of 10,000+ reports

About Grand View Research

Grand View Research, U.S.-based market research and consulting company, provides syndicated as well as customized research reports and consulting services. Registered in California and headquartered in San Francisco, the company comprises over 425 analysts and consultants, adding more than 1200 market research reports to its vast database each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis on 46 industries across 25 major countries worldwide. With the help of an interactive market intelligence platform, Grand View Research helps Fortune 500 companies and renowned academic institutes understand the global and regional business environment and gauge the opportunities that lie ahead.

Contact:

Sherry James

Corporate Sales Specialist, USA

Grand View Research, Inc.

Phone: 1-415-349-0058

Toll Free: 1-888-202-9519

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SOURCE Grand View Research, Inc.
The literacy solutions submitted by Savvas for adoption follow the Mississippi College- and Career-Readiness Standards (MS CCRS) for English Language Arts, and feature curricula that offer coherence and consistency, whether students are learning in person or at home. The programs align with the allowable use requirements of the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER Fund), providing educators with evidence-based programs to help address the academic impact of lost instructional time due to the pandemic.

The Savvas literacy programs approved by the MDE include:

Three Cheers for Pre-K   2022 , a new, ready-to-go Pre-K curriculum providing a balance of academics and purposeful play, centered around quality children's literature, to successfully pave the way for kindergarten readiness. Using digital tools and features, the content supports early learning through fun, interactive activities rooted in learning goals.

, a new, ready-to-go Pre-K curriculum providing a balance of academics and purposeful play, centered around quality children's literature, to successfully pave the way for kindergarten readiness. Using digital tools and features, the content supports early learning through fun, interactive activities rooted in learning goals. myView Literacy   2020 , an interactive K-5 English Language Arts curriculum with a student-centered approach to the teaching of reading, writing, speaking, listening, and thinking. myView comprehensively covers  through explicit and systematic instruction  each of the evidence-based skills that students need to read effectively: phonological awareness, phonics, vocabulary, comprehension, and fluency.

, an interactive K-5 English Language Arts curriculum with a student-centered approach to the teaching of reading, writing, speaking, listening, and thinking. comprehensively covers  through explicit and systematic instruction  each of the evidence-based skills that students need to read effectively: phonological awareness, phonics, vocabulary, comprehension, and fluency. myPerspectives   2022 , a grade 6-12 English Language Arts curriculum providing next-generation learning experiences that promote higher achievement and develop the competencies needed for college and career readiness. Interactive learning blends print and technology in a student-centered, teacher-inspired classroom.

"At Savvas, we believe that literacy is the foundation of education, and it's what motivates us to provide teachers with the tools and resources they need to support student learning and ensure their students grow into independent readers, strong writers, and critical thinkers," said Leigh Ann Garcia, vice president of literacy at Savvas Learning Company. "We are excited that the Mississippi Department of Education has chosen our innovative literacy solutions, which focus on developing the skills students need for success, in the classroom and in life."

ABOUT SAVVAS LEARNING COMPANY

At Savvas, we believe learning should inspire. By combining new ideas, new ways of thinking, and new ways of interacting, we design next-generation learning solutions that help prepare students to become global citizens in a more interconnected, digital world. To learn more, visit Savvas Learning Company .

SOURCE Savvas Learning Company

Related Links

https://www.savvas.com/


LAKEWOOD, Colo., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Natural Grocers, the nation's largest family-operated natural and organic grocery retailer, has established The Natural Grocers Heroes in Aprons Fund, a nonprofit organization recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. The Heroes in Aprons Fund brings together the company's long-standing charitable efforts under one umbrella. It provides both short-term financial assistance to its good4uSM Crew who experience unanticipated hardships and directs grants to Natural Grocers' charity partners in the community.

Established in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Heroes in Aprons Fund embodies Natural Grocers' Founding Principles of commitment to its good4u Crew members and to its communities. Since its inception in 1955, charitable giving has been a company mainstayco-founder Margaret Isely kept a community food cabinet at the first store from which she would give families in need the ingredients for a nutritious meal. Over the subsequent decades, Natural Grocers has developed enduring partnerships with various charities that better the lives of the communities in the 20 states the company serves. Charitable partners include organizations that focus on fighting food insecurity, fostering sustainability and protecting the planet, providing relief to communities impacted by natural disasters, civil rights advocacy, and scholarship endowments for students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

Natural Grocers long-standing charitable efforts are now under one umbrella, The Natural Grocers Heroes in Aprons Fund. Tweet this

Heroes in Aprons will rely primarily on corporate donations from Natural Grocers and individual donations from Crew members. Funds will be collected throughout the year from sales-based giveback programs, as well as company initiatives centered on current events and community needs. Heroes in Aprons' first official fundraising effort will commence during Natural Grocers 66th-anniversary celebration when 1% of all sales on Saturday, August 12, will be donated to the charity.

The objective of the grant is to provide short-term financial assistance to Good4u Crew members or their immediate family members who have encountered severe economic hardship due to sickness, natural disasters, or other unforeseen circumstances.

"Our good4u Crew and communities are the backbone of this company and supporting their health and wellbeing goes beyond free nutrition education and affordable, nutritious groceries," commented Kemper Isely, Natural Grocers Chairman and Co-President. "Along with our customers, we have always been active supporters of our good4u Crew and causes that sustain the flourishing of our communities. We are proud to officially launch Heroes in Aprons to further our continued charitable efforts."

Natural Grocers Heroes in Aprons Fund

The Natural Grocers Heroes in Aprons Fund, an organization recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, provides short term financial assistance to the company's good4uSM Crew members or their immediate family members, who encounter severe economic hardship due to sickness, natural disasters, or other unforeseen circumstances. The Heroes in Aprons Fund will also provide grants to charitable organizations that better the lives of the communities Natural Grocers serves. The nonprofit organization will rely primarily on corporate donations from Natural Grocers and individual donations from Crew members. Heroes in Aprons embodies Natural Grocers' Founding Principle of commitment to good4u Crew members and to its communities.

SOURCE Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, Inc.

Related Links

www.NaturalGrocers.com


PLYMOUTH MEETING, Pa., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Oncology Research Program (ORP) today announced three research projects that have been selected for funding to evaluate neratinib in various tumor types. Neratinib is a type of tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that works as a dual inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor 1 (EGFR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). The research is supported by a grant from Puma Biotechnology, Inc.

"These projects will add to our understanding of the optimal ways to target this pathway and further the management of these diseases, which include rare conditions," said Crystal S. Denlinger, MD, FACP, Senior Vice President, Chief Scientific Officer, NCCN. "We congratulate these impressive investigators and look forward to their findings."

The selected projects are:

Rutika Mehta, MD, MPH , Moffitt Cancer Center

, Phase 2 study of neratinib in combination with chemotherapy and trastuzumab in HER2 overexpressing gastroesophageal cancers

Scott Plotkin , MD, PhD , Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center | Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center

, Phase 2 study of neratinib for adolescents and adults with neurofibromatosis 2 and progressive NF2-related neoplasms: a sub-study of the INTUITT-NF2 platform-basket trial (NCT04374305)

Namrata Vijayvergia , MD , Fox Chase Cancer Center

, Multi-center Phase 1 trial of neratinib and fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan in advanced refractory gastric cancer patients

Alan H. Auerbach, Chief Executive Officer and President of Puma Biotechnology, said, "We are pleased to support our partnership with the National Comprehensive Cancer Network in advancing cancer research and we congratulate the selected investigators. We are committed to exploring the efficacy of neratinib in a diverse range of tumor types for the benefit of affected patient populations and we look forward to the insights provided by these studies."

Proposals were peer reviewed by a Scientific Review Committee, which consisted of leading expert medical oncologists from NCCN Member Institutions. The funded concepts were selected based on several criteria, including scientific merit, existing data, feasibility and the types of studies needed to further evaluate neratinib. The research projects will commence late 2021 and take place over two years. The NCCN ORP will provide oversight. Puma is providing $1.4 million in funding and will also supply the neratinib tablets for use in the studies.

The NCCN ORP fosters innovation and knowledge discovery that improves the lives of people with cancer and supports preclinical, translational, and clinical research and quality improvement projects in oncology at NCCN Member Institutions. In an effort to improve collaboration in cancer research, the NCCN ORP also maintains a shared resources website and an informed consent database. For more information, visit NCCN.org/orp.

About the National Comprehensive Cancer Network

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) is a not-for-profit alliance of leading cancer centers devoted to patient care, research, and education. NCCN is dedicated to improving and facilitating quality, effective, efficient, and accessible cancer care so patients can live better lives. The NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines) provide transparent, evidence-based, expert consensus recommendations for cancer treatment, prevention, and supportive services; they are the recognized standard for clinical direction and policy in cancer management and the most thorough and frequently-updated clinical practice guidelines available in any area of medicine. The NCCN Guidelines for Patients provide expert cancer treatment information to inform and empower patients and caregivers, through support from the NCCN Foundation. NCCN also advances continuing education, global initiatives, policy, and research collaboration and publication in oncology. Visit NCCN.org for more information and follow NCCN on Facebook @NCCNorg, Instagram @NCCNorg, and Twitter @NCCN.

Media Contact:

Rachel Darwin

267-622-6624

[email protected]

SOURCE National Comprehensive Cancer Network

Related Links

www.nccn.org


Provides Notice of Release of Second Quarter Financial Results

(All amounts are in U.S. dollars unless otherwise indicated)

TORONTO, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - New Gold Inc. ("New Gold" or the "Company") (TSX: NGD) and (NYSE American: NGD) reports second quarter operational results for the Company as of June 30, 2021. The Company is also providing notice that it will release its second quarter 2021 financial results before market on Wednesday, August 11, 2021. A conference call and webcast will follow at 8:30 am Eastern Time (details are provided at the end of this news release).

"Our operations continued to advance their primary objectives during the quarter. Rainy River had another solid operational quarter and is positioned to have a stronger second half of production. As we start the third quarter, the mine has now successfully transitioned from focusing on stripping, and we are now seeing a marked improvement in grades through the first half of July. At New Afton, mining rates were up more than 30% over the first quarter as underground operations returned to pre-incident levels. With the B3 permit now in hand, the focus shifts to a safe execution of the extraction of the B3 zone during the second half of the year," stated Renaud Adams, President & CEO. "Lastly, I would like to highlight the publication of our 2020 Sustainability Report in the quarter. Sustainability and our approach to pressing ESG issues remain central to our success, and I am very proud of the work our team has done to deliver this report."

Second Quarter Highlights

Total production was 105,705 gold equivalent 1 ("gold eq.") ounces (66,989 ounces of gold, 240,029 ounces of silver and 18.2 million pounds of copper)

("gold eq.") ounces (66,989 ounces of gold, 240,029 ounces of silver and 18.2 million pounds of copper) The Rainy River Mine produced 55,163 gold eq. 1 ounces (52,901 ounces of gold and 162,879 ounces of silver)

ounces (52,901 ounces of gold and 162,879 ounces of silver) The New Afton Mine produced 50,542 gold eq. 1 ounces (14,088 ounces of gold and 18.2 million pounds of copper)

ounces (14,088 ounces of gold and 18.2 million pounds of copper) During the quarter, the Company announced that the Mines Act permit enabling mining of the B3 zone was issued by the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon innovation ( refer to the Company's May 25, 2021 news release for further information )

) The Company's 2020 Sustainability Report was published on June 4, 2021 , and can be found on the New Gold website

, and can be found on the New Gold website At the end of the quarter, the Company had a cash position of $138 million and a strong liquidity position of $464 million

Consolidated Operational Highlights



Q2 2021 Q2 2020 H1 2021 H1 2020 Gold eq. production (ounces)1 105,705 98,079 201,731 201,514 Gold production (ounces) 66,989 64,294 133,639 131,084 Copper production (Mlbs) 18.2 16.9 32.0 35.4

Rainy River Mine

Operational Highlights

Rainy River Mine Q2 2021 Q2 2020 H1 2021 H1 2020 Gold eq. production (ounces)1 55,163 49,633 111,676 100,739 Gold eq. sold (ounces)1 57,304 47,873 110,881 101,411 Gold production (ounces) 52,901 48,800 107,557 99,181 Gold sold (ounces) 55,062 47,064 106,857 99,846

Operating Key Performance Indicators

Rainy River Mine (Open Pit Mine only) Q2 2020 Q3 2020 Q4 2020 Q1 2021 Q2 2021 Tonnes mined per day (ore and waste) 126,512 145,701 158,638 150,767 158,556 Ore tonnes mined per day 23,101 36,515 42,918 35,681 36,256 Operating waste tonnes per day 72,575 62,818 73,921 65,643 71,124 Capitalized waste tonnes per day 30,836 46,368 41,799 49,442 51,176 Total waste tonnes per day 103,411 109,186 115,720 115,085 122,300 Strip ratio (waste:ore) 4.48 2.99 2.70 3.23 3.37 Tonnes milled per calendar day 23,880 26,998 26,999 26,301 25,349 Gold grade milled (g/t) 0.78 0.88 0.93 0.80 0.82 Gold recovery (%) 89 89 90 89 87 Mill availability (%) 90 90 94 89 88 Gold production (ounces) 48,800 63,004 66,734 54,656 52,901 Gold eq. production (ounces)1 49,633 64,221 68,241 56,513 55,163

Second quarter gold eq. 1 production was 55,163 ounces (52,901 ounces of gold and 162,879 ounces of silver). Lower gold grades were expected during the first half of the year as mining operations were focused on stripping to bring pit walls to the final pit limit. During the second half of the year, grades are expected to increase as the mine returns to higher-grade areas of the pit. The 11% increase compared to the prior-year period is due to higher tonnes processed and higher gold grades.

production was 55,163 ounces (52,901 ounces of gold and 162,879 ounces of silver). Lower gold grades were expected during the first half of the year as mining operations were focused on stripping to bring pit walls to the final pit limit. During the second half of the year, grades are expected to increase as the mine returns to higher-grade areas of the pit. The 11% increase compared to the prior-year period is due to higher tonnes processed and higher gold grades. The open pit mine achieved 158,556 tonnes per day, a 5% increase over the prior quarter, and exceeding the 2021 target of ~151,000 tonnes per day. Approximately 3.3 million ore tonnes and 11.1 million waste tonnes (including 4.7 million capitalized waste tonnes) were mined from the open pit at an average strip ratio of 3.37:1. As planned, during the second half of the year, the strip ratio is expected to decrease.

The mill processed 25,349 tonnes per day for the quarter, lower than the prior period due to unplanned maintenance activities performed at the mill during the quarter impacting mill availability and operating time. The mill is expected to operate at 27,000 tonnes per day in the second half of the year. The mill continued to process ore directly supplied by the open pit combined with ore from the medium grade stockpile and processed an average grade of 0.82 grams per tonne at a gold recovery of 87%. Mill availability for the quarter averaged 88%.

Rainy River is currently on-track to meet the low end of the production guidance range.

is currently on-track to meet the low end of the production guidance range. There are currently no active cases of COVID-19 at the Rainy River Mine. Rainy River has implemented measures to mitigate and limit the spread of COVID-19 to protect the well-being of its employees, contractors, their families, local communities, and other stakeholders. For more information see: http://newgold.com/covid-19/.

New Afton Mine

Operational Highlights

New Afton Mine Q2 2021 Q2 2020 H1 2021 H1 2020 Gold eq. production (ounces)1 50,542 48,446 90,055 100,775 Gold eq. sold (ounces)1 46,917 43,517 85,157 93,915 Gold production (ounces) 14,088 15,494 26,082 31,903 Gold sold (ounces) 13,122 13,789 24,866 29,780 Copper production (Mlbs) 18.2 16.9 32.0 35.4 Copper sold (Mlbs) 16.9 15.3 30.2 33.0

Operating Key Performance Indicators

New Afton Mine Q2 2020 Q3 2020 Q4 2020 Q1 2021 Q2 2021 Tonnes mined per day (ore and waste) 15,358 17,249 17,259 11,395 15,104 Tonnes milled per calendar day 14,240 15,483 15,358 13,564 13,795 Gold grade milled (g/t) 0.46 0.44 0.46 0.39 0.43 Gold recovery (%) 81 80 79 79 80 Gold production (ounces) 15,494 15,955 16,362 11,994 14,088 Copper grade milled (%) 0.72 0.71 0.73 0.64 0.79 Copper recovery (%) 83 82 81 80 83 Copper production (Mlbs) 16.9 18.2 18.5 13.8 18.2 Mill availability (%) 92 98 99 96 98 Gold eq. production (ounces)1 48,446 51,315 52,326 39,512 50,542

Second quarter gold eq. 1 production was 50,542 ounces (14,088 ounces of gold, and 18.2 million pounds of copper). The increase compared to the prior-year period is due to higher copper production as a result of higher copper grades.

production was 50,542 ounces (14,088 ounces of gold, and 18.2 million pounds of copper). The increase compared to the prior-year period is due to higher copper production as a result of higher copper grades. The underground mine averaged 15,104 tonnes per day for the quarter, higher than the previous quarter, as the mine initiated a safe and secure ramp up of Lift 1, including the West Cave, East Cave and Pillar, to return to pre-incident mining rates.

The mill averaged 13,795 tonnes per day, slightly below prior-year period, but in-line with plan to optimize metal recoveries while processing higher grade supergene ore. The mill processed gold grades of 0.43 grams per tonne and higher than expected copper grades of 0.79%, with gold and copper recoveries of 80% and 83%, respectively.

B3 production commenced in June following receipt of the Mines Act Permit on May 25, 2021 and will advance through the second half of the year. With the permit being received later than anticipated, ore extraction transitioning from Lift 1 to B3, and with current metal prices significantly above reserve pricing, New Afton is looking for ways to optimize its current mine plan.

and will advance through the second half of the year. With the permit being received later than anticipated, ore extraction transitioning from Lift 1 to B3, and with current metal prices significantly above reserve pricing, New Afton is looking for ways to optimize its current mine plan. C-Zone development advanced by approximately 919 metres and the project remains on track.

There are currently no active cases of COVID-19 at the New Afton Mine. New Afton has implemented measures to mitigate and limit the spread of COVID-19 to protect the well-being of its employees, contractors, their families, local communities, and other stakeholders. For more information see: http://newgold.com/covid-19/.

Second Quarter 2021 Conference Call and Webcast

The Company will release its second quarter 2021 financial results before market on Wednesday, August 11, 2021 . A conference call and webcast will follow at 8:30 am Eastern Time .

. A conference call and webcast will follow at . Participants may listen to the webcast by registering on our website at www.newgold.com or via the following link https://produceredition.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1479944&tp_key=e9367fef15

Participants may also listen to the conference call by calling North American toll free 1-888-664-6383, or 1-416-764-8650 outside of the U.S. and Canada , passcode 26663480.

, passcode 26663480. A recorded playback of the conference call will be available until September 11, 2021 , by calling North American toll free 1-888-390-0541, or 1-416-764-8677 outside of the U.S. and Canada , passcode 663480. An archived webcast will also be available at www.newgold.com.

About New Gold

New Gold is a Canadian-focused intermediate mining Company with a portfolio of two core producing assets in Canada, the Rainy River gold mine and the New Afton copper-gold mine. The Company also holds an 8% gold stream on the Artemis Gold Blackwater project located in Canada, a 6% equity stake in Artemis, and other Canadian-focused investments. The Company also owns the Cerro San Pedro Mine in Mexico (in reclamation). New Gold's vision is to build a leading diversified intermediate gold company based in Canada that is committed to environment and social responsibility. For further information on the Company, visit www.newgold.com .

Endnotes

1. Total gold eq. ounces include silver and copper produced/sold converted to a gold eq. based on a ratio of $1,800 per gold ounce, $25.00 per silver ounce and $3.50 per copper pound used for 2021 guidance estimates. All copper is produced/sold by the New Afton Mine. Gold eq. ounces for Rainy River in Q2 2021 includes production of 162,879 ounces of silver (161,472 ounces sold) converted to a gold eq. based on a ratio of $1,800 per gold ounce and $25.00 per silver ounce used for 2021 guidance estimates. Gold eq. ounces for New Afton in Q2 2021 includes 18.2 million pounds of copper produced (16.9 million pounds sold) and 77,150 ounces of silver produced (67,888 ounces of silver sold) converted to a gold eq. based on a ratio of $1,800 per gold ounce, 3.50 per copper pound and $25.00 per silver ounce used for 2021 guidance estimates.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information contained in this news release, including any information relating to New Gold's future financial or operating performance are "forward-looking". All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, which address events, results, outcomes or developments that New Gold expects to occur are "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "targeted", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "projects", "potential", "believes" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "should", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotation of such terms. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, among others, statements with respect to: the Company's plans regarding the release its second quarter 2021 financial results and the timing and details of its conference call and webcast relating thereto; the Company's expectations in respect of stronger production and safe execution of the extraction of the B3 zone in the second half of the year; the planned mining of higher-grade areas of the Rainy River mine pit and the expected increase in gold grades during the second half of the year as a result thereof; the anticipated decrease in the strip ratio at Rainy River during the second half of the year; the expected daily operating capacity of the mill in the second half of 2021; and the Company's planned development of the C-Zone and advancement of B3 production through the second half of the year.

All forward-looking statements in this news release are based on the opinions and estimates of management that, while considered reasonable as at the date of this press release in light of management's experience and perception of current conditions and expected developments, are inherently subject to important risk factors and uncertainties, many of which are beyond New Gold's ability to control or predict. Certain material assumptions regarding such forward-looking statements are discussed in this news release, New Gold's latest annual management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A"), its most recent annual information form and technical reports on the Rainy River Mine and New Afton Mine filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. In addition to, and subject to, such assumptions discussed in more detail elsewhere, the forward-looking statements in this news release are also subject to the following assumptions: (1) there being no significant disruptions affecting New Gold's operations other than as set out herein; (2) political and legal developments in jurisdictions where New Gold operates, or may in the future operate, being consistent with New Gold's current expectations; (3) the accuracy of New Gold's current mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates; (4) the exchange rate between the Canadian dollar and U.S. dollar, and to a lesser extent, the Mexican Peso, being approximately consistent with current levels; (5) prices for diesel, natural gas, fuel oil, electricity and other key supplies being approximately consistent with current levels; (6) equipment, labour and materials costs increasing on a basis consistent with New Gold's current expectations; (7) arrangements with First Nations and other Aboriginal groups in respect of the New Afton Mine and Rainy River Mine being consistent with New Gold's current expectations; (8) all required permits, licenses and authorizations being obtained from the relevant governments and other relevant stakeholders within the expected timelines; (9) there being no significant disruptions to the Company's workforce at either the Rainy River or New Afton Mine due to cases of COVID-19 or any required self-isolation requirements (due, among other things, to cross-border travel to the United States or any other country); (10) the responses of the relevant governments to the COVID-19 outbreak being sufficient to contain the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak; (11) there being no material disruption to the Company's supply chains and workforce that would interfere with the Company's anticipated course of action at the Rainy River Mine and the systematic ramp-up of operations; and (12) the long-term economic effects of the COVID-19 outbreak not having a material adverse impact on the Company's operations or liquidity position.

Forward-looking statements are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, without limitation: significant capital requirements and the availability and management of capital resources; additional funding requirements; price volatility in the spot and forward markets for metals and other commodities; fluctuations in the international currency markets and in the rates of exchange of the currencies of Canada, the United States and, to a lesser extent, Mexico; volatility in the market price of the Company's securities; hedging and investment related risks; dependence on the Rainy River Mine and New Afton Mine; discrepancies between actual and estimated production, between actual and estimated mineral reserves and mineral resources and between actual and estimated metallurgical recoveries; risks related to early production at the Rainy River Mine, including failure of equipment, machinery, the process circuit or other processes to perform as designed or intended; risks related to construction, including changing costs and timelines; adequate infrastructure; fluctuation in treatment and refining charges; changes in national and local government legislation in Canada, the United States and, to a lesser extent, Mexico or any other country in which New Gold currently or may in the future carry on business; global economic and financial conditions; risks relating to New Gold's debt and liquidity; the adequacy of internal and disclosure controls; taxation; impairment; conflicts of interest; risks relating to climate change; controls, regulations and political or economic developments in the countries in which New Gold does or may carry on business; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, including the risks of obtaining and maintaining the validity and enforceability of the necessary licenses and permits and complying with the permitting requirements of each jurisdiction in which New Gold operates; the lack of certainty with respect to foreign legal systems, which may not be immune from the influence of political pressure, corruption or other factors that are inconsistent with the rule of law; the uncertainties inherent to current and future legal challenges New Gold is or may become a party to; risks relating to proposed acquisitions and the integration thereof; information systems security threats; diminishing quantities or grades of mineral reserves and mineral resources; competition; loss of, or inability to attract, key employees; rising costs of labour, supplies, fuel and equipment; actual results of current exploration or reclamation activities; uncertainties inherent to mining economic studies; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; accidents; labour disputes; defective title to mineral claims or property or contests over claims to mineral properties; unexpected delays and costs inherent to consulting and accommodating rights of Indigenous groups; risks, uncertainties and unanticipated delays associated with obtaining and maintaining necessary licenses, permits and authorizations and complying with permitting requirements; disruptions to the Company's workforce at either the Rainy River Mine or the New Afton Mine, or both, due to cases of COVID-19 or any required self-isolation (due to cross-border travel, exposure to a case of COVID-19 or otherwise); the responses of the relevant governments to the COVID-19 outbreak not being sufficient to contain the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak; disruptions to the Company's supply chain and workforce due to the COVID-19 outbreak; an economic recession or downturn as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak that materially adversely affects the Company's operations or liquidity position; there being further shutdowns at the Rainy River or New Afton Mines; the Company not being able to complete its construction projects at the Rainy River Mine or the New Afton Mines on the anticipated timeline or at all; the Company not being able to complete the exploration drilling program to be launched at the Rainy River Mine and Cherry Creek on the anticipated timeline or at all; Artemis Gold Inc. not being able to make the remaining C$50 million cash payment due in connection with its acquisition of the Blackwater Project on August 24, 2021. In addition, there are risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining, including environmental events and hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations, pressures, cave-ins, flooding and gold bullion losses (and the risk of inadequate insurance or inability to obtain insurance to cover these risks) as well as "Risk Factors" included in New Gold's most recent annual information form, MD&A and other disclosure documents filed on and available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Forward looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results and future events could materially differ from those anticipated in such statements. All forward-looking statements contained in this news release are qualified by these cautionary statements. New Gold expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, events or otherwise, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

Technical Information

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Eric Vinet, Senior Vice President, Operations of New Gold. Mr. Vinet is a Professional Engineer and member of the Ordre des ingenieurs du Quebec. He is a "Qualified Person" for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

SOURCE New Gold Inc.

Related Links

https://www.newgold.com/


BOSTON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- As we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, a new PBS series explores the accelerated pace of change in the workplace and the potential for long-term impact on workers, employers, educators and communities across our country. Prior to the start of the pandemic, a team of award-winning filmmakers at public media powerhouse GBH had begun exploring the experiences of American workers across industries, generations, geographies and pay levels. The resulting multi-platform series, Future of Work, makes its debut this summer on streaming and broadcast platforms.

"Future of Work raises critical questions and explores compelling diverse individual experiences," says GBH Executive Producer and series creator Denise DiIanni. "We provide expert perspectives to help us understand what the future holds for the U.S. workforce and why that matters in today's world." Is the right to work a human right? Is the future of work about entrenched haves and have-nots? What are the merits of college vs. training programs in preparing for the jobs of tomorrow? How do we protect and preserve employment opportunities that sustain families, communities, and the nation -- fundamental aspects of the American Dream?

Future of Work explores these and other questions with profiles of millennial, single-parent and other workers, in addition to leading economic, employment, training and technology experts. The three-part broadcast series airs on PBS stations starting September 1st. Meanwhile, viewers can stream the Future of Work digital series on PBS Digital Studios and PBS Voices YouTube Channel throughout the summer.

Future of Work travels to locations across the U.S., from New York City to Kentucky, to Stockton, California and Fargo, North Dakota with many more stops along the way. GBH's DiIanni notes, "Each episode illuminates what it means to work, chronicling individual stories before and throughout the pandemic, documenting a range of Americans' experiences."

In the first episode of the broadcast series, we meet Chris Francis. After losing his job of 30 years in finance and accounting, Francis has become a seasonal worker. Like Fern in this year's Academy Award-winning Nomadland, he travels to where he can find work, including at an Amazon return center, navigating a new "vanner" lifestyle. In another episode, we see the impact of advanced technologies on several industries, including health care, as Michael Jobst uses a robotic arm to conduct surgeries. From the operating room to the farm, Sara Lovitz, a fourth-generation farmer, uses an automated tractor to optimize her family's output, exclaiming "No hands!" as she shows us how the tractor drives itself.

Future of Work Digital Stories

Future of Work kicks off with the launch of a six-part digital series  the first episode was released on July 7. The digital series will examine how the current crisis is impacting long-term employment trends for entry-level and early career workers. Through intimate portraits of six Americans making their way in an ever-changing landscape, each episode focuses on one of the key themes from Future of Work  the gig economy, the rise of the precariat, the digital nomad, working to live, the community worker, and new opportunities  and through generations in a family, illustrating its past and present. The digital series is distributed through PBS Digital Studios' PBS Voices YouTube Channel.

Future of Work Social Media Series

The Future of Work social media series is designed for early career workers and will be produced vertically for distribution on the PBS IGTV channel. The social series is in part a spin-off from the core digital series but with a look to the future; each episode is anchored by a conversation between our early career worker and a young family member who will explore the issues presented by Future of Work in his or her own unique point of view.

Future of Work is produced by GBH Boston, Shining Red Productions, Blue Spark Collaborative and Curious Child Films. Series Creator and Senior Executive in Charge: Denise DiIanni, Co-Executive Producer: Laurie Donnelly. Directors and Writers: Episode 1; Graham Townsley, Episode 2; Llewellyn "Llew" Smith, Episode 3; Laurens Grant. Episode 2 Producer: Kelly Thomson. Funding for Future of Work is provided by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, The Rockefeller Foundation, Carnegie Corporation of New York, The James Irvine Foundation, the Ford Foundation, and through the support of PBS viewers.

###

About GBH

GBH is the leading multiplatform creator for public media in America. As the largest producer of content for PBS and partner to NPR and PRX, GBH delivers compelling experiences, stories and information to audiences wherever they are. GBH produces digital and broadcast programming that engages, illuminates and inspires, through drama and science, history, arts, culture and journalism. GBH is the creator of such signature programs as MASTERPIECE, ANTIQUES ROADSHOW, FRONTLINE, NOVA, AMERICAN EXPERIENCE and Arthur and Molly of Denali, as well as GBH WORLD, a catalog of streaming series, podcasts and on-demand video. With studios and a newsroom headquartered in Boston, GBH reaches across New England with GBH 89.7, Boston's Local NPR; CRB Classical 99.5; and CAI, the Cape and Islands NPR station. Dedicated to making media accessible to and representative of our diverse culture, GBH is a pioneer in delivering media to audience members who are deaf, hard of hearing, blind and visually impaired. With PBS LearningMedia, GBH creates curriculum- based digital content for educators nationwide. GBH's local programming includes Boston Public Radio, Greater Boston, Stories from the Stage, Open Studio with Jared Bowen, Basic Black and High School Quiz Show. GBH has been recognized with hundreds of the nation's premier broadcast, digital and journalism awards.

About PBS

PBS, with more than 330 member stations, offers all Americans the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television and digital content. Each month, PBS reaches over 126 million people through television and 26 million people online, inviting them to experience the worlds of science, history, nature and public affairs; to hear diverse viewpoints; and to take front row seats to world-class drama and performances. PBS' broad array of programs has been consistently honored by the industry's most coveted award competitions. Teachers of children from pre-K through 12th grade turn to PBS for digital content and services that help bring classroom lessons to life. Decades of research confirms that PBS' premier children's media service, PBS KIDS, helps children build critical literacy, math and social-emotional skills, enabling them to find success in school and life. Delivered through member stations, PBS KIDS offers high-quality educational content on TV  including a 24/7 channel, online at pbskids.org, via an array of mobile apps and in communities across America. More information about PBS is available at www.pbs.org, one of the leading dot-org websites on the internet, or by following PBS on Twitter, Facebook or through our apps for mobile and connected devices. Specific program information and updates for press are available at pbs.org/pressroom or by following PBS Communications on Twitter .

About CPB

The Corporation for Public Broadcasting, a private, nonprofit corporation created by Congress in 1967, is the steward of the federal government's investment in public broadcasting. It helps support the operations of more than 1,500 locally managed and operated public television and radio stations nationwide. CPB is also the largest single source of funding for research, technology and program development for public radio, television and related online services. For more information, visit cpb.org, follow us on Twitter @CPBmedia, Facebook and LinkedIn and subscribe for other updates.

SOURCE GBH

Related Links

https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/future-of-work/


REDMOND, Wash., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Ossia Inc. ("Ossia"), the leader in wireless power at a distance, today announced two new partnerships with organizations that will accelerate Ossia's momentum in getting wireless power to market.

The first partnership is with a strategic investor, IQT, that accelerates the development and delivery of new, innovative technologies to the U.S. defense and intelligence agencies. IQT was founded in 1999 to deliver emerging and cutting-edge technologies to enhance the national security of the United States.

The second is with a cutting-edge semiconductor company, e-peas, that is paving the way for energy harvesting technology to support wireless power at a distance. This company specializes in ultra-low power energy harvesting and processing solutions and Ossia has been collaborating with them for more than two years. e-peas partnered with Ossia for the development of state-of-the-art energy management chip.

One of e-peas' and Ossia's biggest collaborations so far involve working to integrate features in the new versatile buck-boost ambient energy manager AEM30330 for Cota technology to support Retail IoT applications (such as ESLs) and low power sensors.

This chip features ultra-low power start-up from 275mV input voltage and 3uW input power and supports both battery and battery-less (super-capacitor) applications. The Cota wireless solution using e-peas AEM30330 power management chip has a very small footprint and low Bill of Materials (BOM) costs, which allows Cota Power Receivers (Cota Rx) to be produced at scale and cost effectively.

Both partnerships enforce Ossia's dominate market leadership in the wireless power space with continued innovation in the development of wireless power technology and momentum of Ossia's growing ecosystem and market segments.

"Our collaboration with Ossia has allowed us to create cutting-edge features required for the Cota Real Wireless Power solution," states Geoffroy Gosset, e-peas' CEO. "We are very pleased of this collaboration; it shows that we have both the technology, innovation and, quality to provide industry-leading energy harvesting solutions for market like Retail IoT applications and low power sensors."

"Wireless power transmission has been of longstanding interest to the intelligence community and In-Q-Tel is excited to partner with Ossia to bring Cota technology to the forefront," states Steve Taub, Partner, Investments at IQT.

Ossia's flagship technology is Cota Real Wireless Power, a patented, award-winning technology that delivers power at a distance, without cables, charging pads, or line-of-sight. Cota technology can deliver meaningful power to many devices at the same time, in motion, at a considerable distance, safely and efficiently. All Cota-enabled devices can be activated, managed, and monitored via the Cota Cloud platform.

"We are very pleased to announce partnerships," said Doug Stovall, Chief Executive Officer of Ossia. "These partnerships enable Cota-powered products to continue their proliferation across Ossia's growing ecosystem. There is incredible demand and scale for wireless power in both the retail, IoT, consumer, military, and intelligence agencies. These partnerships will accelerate Ossia's mass deployment of Cota Real Wireless Power across the world."

About Ossia

Ossia Inc. is leading the world on what is possible with wireless power. Ossia's flagship Cota technology redefines wireless power by safely delivering remote, targeted energy to devices at a distance. Ossia's Cota technology is a patented smart antenna technology that automatically keeps multiple devices charged without any user intervention and enables an efficient and truly wire-free, powered-up world that is always on and always connected. Ossia is headquartered in Redmond, Washington. Visit our website at www.ossia.com.

About e-peas:

e-peas develops and markets disruptive ultra-low power semiconductor technology. This enables industrial and IoT wireless product designers to substantially extend battery lifespans and eliminate the heavy call-out costs of replacing batteries, without in any way compromising on reliability. Relying on 15 years of research and patented intellectual property, the company's products increase the amount of harvested energy and drastically reduce the energy consumption of all power consuming blocks within wireless sensor nodes. Headquartered in Mont-Saint-Guibert, Belgium, with additional offices in Switzerland and the USA, e-peas offers a portfolio of energy harvesting power management interface ICs, microcontrollers and sensor solutions. www.e-peas.com

About IQT

IQT is the non-profit organization that the national security community has relied upon for more than 20 years to anticipate their technology questions and needs and achieve solutions. The entirety of IQT  In-Q-Tel and IQT International, IQT Labs, B Next, and now IQT Emerge  powers our government partners ahead of the technology curve. For more information visit www.iqt.org.

Ossia Resources:

Twitter.com/OssiaInc

Facebook.com/OssiaInc

Linkedin.com/OssiaInc

Media Contacts:

Nicole Paleologus

Next PR

[email protected]

SOURCE Ossia

Related Links

http://www.ossia.com


Rather than relying solely on artificial intelligence (AI) and automated bots to drive customer communication, both organizations built solutions that merge technology and expertly trained professionals to deliver authentic experiences at scale. By acquiring Client Chat Live's proprietary technology and its skilled staff under the Nexa brand, Nexa adds live chat and text messaging to its suite of services.

"Client Chat Live has become a trusted name in the industry and bringing it into the Nexa family allows us to further expand our mission of empowering businesses of all sizes to improve customer service, marketing and sales at scale," said Jeff Mosler, CEO of Nexa. "It is a perfect fit for Nexa because Client Chat Live already had a strong business model in legal and home services, and their client retention is among the strongest we've seen in the SMB and mid-market categories."

As Nexa and its customers experience tremendous growth, its leaders are continually looking for ways to leverage new technology and innovation to support businesses across the home services, healthcare, legal, real estate, e-commerce and retail industries in scaling operations and revenue. The tech-enabled, people-powered foundation Nexa was built upon enables businesses to achieve this and deliver human-centered experiences to their customers and prospective customers whether that's through voice, web, chat or text.

"Fifty-one percent of consumers say a business needs to be available 24/7 and 41 percent expect businesses to provide chat and text customer service," said Mosler. "With this new omnichannel solution, Nexa can now service our clients across all of the channels that their customers desire, maximizing opportunities for more sales, higher retention and better service."

"Since our inception, our mission has been to support the success of our clients by helping them drive growth through human-powered technology, and now through Nexa, we're able to deliver on that mission with a more complete service offering," said Jon Cumberworth, CEO of Client Chat Live. "Not only are our two companies a strategic fit, but we're also aligned in our culture and work philosophiesfocused on integrity and a dedication to our employees and customers."

The acquisition will bring a rich-feature set to Nexa's already robust service offerings with Nexa Chat & Text. Features include:

24/7/365 People-Powered Live Chat & Text: A real person available to answer questions, schedule appointments and qualify leads, even in the middle of the night and on holidays.

A real person available to answer questions, schedule appointments and qualify leads, even in the middle of the night and on holidays. Live Phone Transfer: Connect qualified leads directly to a live Nexa agent for real-time lead conversion, scheduling, improved customer experience and more.

Connect qualified leads directly to a live Nexa agent for real-time lead conversion, scheduling, improved customer experience and more. CRM Integration: Connect with your CRM to manage all lead and customer data in one place.

Connect with your CRM to manage all lead and customer data in one place. Chat Feature Installed On Your Website: Easily install text capabilities or a chat box on your website that pops up automatically to boost engagement.

Easily install text capabilities or a chat box on your website that pops up automatically to boost engagement. Highly Customized Experience: Provide custom scripts and graphics so that the entire experience represents your brand.

Provide custom scripts and graphics so that the entire experience represents your brand. Reporting & Analytics: Receive reports with chat and text details, and integrate the tool with analytics to improve customer service, track leads and grow revenue.

"We're looking forward to this next chapter and are excited to be able to bring this technology to our customers and business partners," Mosler said. "We're also looking forward to welcoming the Client Chat Live team to the Nexa family."

To learn more about the 24/7/365 live chat and text services, visit nexa.com/24-7-live-chat-and-text .

About Nexa Receptionist Holdings, LLC

Nexa Receptionists Holdings, LLC is a leading provider of tech-enabled business services for companies of all sizes across the United States, helping them to grow and scale with expert-level call answering, inbound & outbound sales, live chat & text, and client & patient intake services. The company goes to market with the following three brands: Nexa , Nexa Healthcare and Alert Communications . Headquartered in Phoenix, Ariz., Nexa was founded in 1982. For more information, visit www.nexa.com .

Useful Links:

Nexa on LinkedIn

Nexa on Twitter

Nexa on Facebook

SOURCE Nexa

Related Links

http://www.nexa.com


Investment made in partnership with the CEO and Founder with the aim to accelerate Duco's growth and expansion

STOCKHOLM, Sweden, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Nordic Capital today announced an agreement to invest in Duco Technology Limited ("Duco") and acquire a majority shareholding from current investors, CME Ventures, Insight Partners and Eight Roads Ventures. Founder Christian Nentwich will remain as a shareholder and Chief Executive Officer.

Nordic Capital will utilise its experience within the Technology and Payments sector, as well as its broad network and operational resources to accelerate the transformative growth of the business. The data automation market is growing rapidly, and Nordic Capital's investment will enable the business to further increase its international footprint whilst also supporting product expansion and employee growth.

Duco provides Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions in the cloud to Financial Services, Insurance and FinTech companies dealing with mission critical data management issues. Duco's mission is to "make managing data easy" by replacing spreadsheets and technology-heavy solutions in areas like data prep, reconciliation, data quality and data management with a user-friendly, machine learning-powered platform.

Headquartered in London, Duco has 140 employees in the UK, US, Singapore and Poland. Duco's software is used by 14 of the top 30 global banks, asset managers with over $10 trillion in assets, leading payments innovators, exchanges and custodians, and insurers.

"We are very pleased to be partnering with Nordic Capital for the next part of Duco's journey. Together we will be able to take the business to its next level as they have a strong track record of scaling fast-growing businesses such as Duco. Companies face huge, unsolved problems in the data management and data automation areas. We are passionate about solving these problems in new ways that make people's work lives more enjoyable and have immediate and substantial agility and cost benefits to our clients. Nordic Capital's strategic expertise, focus on growth and execution best practice mean that we can accelerate from here and strengthen our strategy with both organic and acquisition growth in the future," said Christian Nentwich, CEO, Duco, adding "I would also like to thank our outgoing investors and our independent board members, Cris Conde, Kirsten Wolberg and Spencer Lake, for their support and guidance that led us to where we are today."

"The reconciliation market is growing quickly with strong structural tail winds. Duco brings state-of-the art solutions challenging established legacy point solutions and vastly improve processes. Duco has demonstrated strong leadership and innovation to move technology in Financial Services forward, with its focus on cloud-only delivery and self-service for end users. We are excited about the positioning of the company to respond to major trends that are gaining rapid traction, its great reputation with its clients, and the strength of its technology. Nordic Capital is looking forward to supporting the next phase of Duco's journey alongside Christian and the management team," said Emil Anderson, Principal, Nordic Capital Advisors.

Nordic Capital is a leading specialised Technology & Payments investor in Europe with a long and extensive history and experience of investing and supporting sustainable growth in technology software and Financial Service companies. To date, Nordic Capital has deployed more than EUR 4.5 billion of equity across 21 technology companies since 2001 and has significant experience in software as well as payments.

Nordic Capital supports businesses to accelerate growth through expansion into new markets, new product development, improving go-to-market and talent acquisitions, amongst other initiatives. The goal is to use operational experience, capital and business acumen to create strong, sustainable businesses that will thrive in the long term.

The terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Arma Partners served as financial advisors to Duco management and institutional shareholders.

About Duco

Duco, a leading data automation company, is helping businesses to unleash their potential by removing the friction around data. Duco's cloud-based, no-code platform brings together data quality, reconciliation, data preparation and management, giving firms the tools they need to increase business agility, reduce risk, stay compliant with regulation and dramatically improve efficiency. Over 10,000 users across 30+ countries process billions of data records every week using the platform. Duco is headquartered in London, with offices in New York, Edinburgh, Wroclaw and Singapore. Customers include global banks, investment managers, insurance firms and challenger fintech companies, such as Societe Generale, ING, Man Group and Currencycloud. For more information go towww.du.co

About Nordic Capital

Nordic Capital is a leading private equity investor with a resolute commitment to creating stronger, sustainable businesses through operational improvement and transformative growth. Nordic Capital focuses on selected regions and sectors where it has deep experience and a long history. Focus sectors are Healthcare, Technology & Payments, Financial Services, and selectively, Industrial & Business Services. Key regions are Europe and globally for Healthcare and Technology & Payments investments. Since inception in 1989, Nordic Capital has invested more than EUR 17 billion in close to 120 investments. The most recent funds are Nordic Capital Fund X with EUR 6.1 billion in committed capital and Nordic Capital Evolution Fund with EUR 1.2 billion in committed capital, principally provided by international institutional investors such as pension funds. Nordic Capital Advisors have local offices in Sweden, the UK, the US, Germany, Denmark, Finland and Norway. For further information about Nordic Capital, please visit www.nordiccapital.com.

"Nordic Capital" refers to any, or all, Nordic Capital branded funds and vehicles and associated entities. The general partners and/or delegated portfolio manager of Nordic Capital's funds and vehicles are advised by several non-discretionary sub-advisory entities, any or all of which are referred to as "Nordic Capital Advisors".

Media contacts

Nordic Capital

Katarina Janerud, Communications Manager

Nordic Capital Advisors

Tel: +46 8 440 50 50

e-mail: [email protected]

Duco

Annie Knight / Megan Hill

Wildfire PR

[email protected]

+44 208 408 8000

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/nordic-capital/r/nordic-capital-invests-in-no-code-data-automation-leader-duco,c3385597

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/2166/3385597/1445385.pdf Nordic Capital invests in no-code data automation leader Duco_Press release_2021-07-15 https://news.cision.com/nordic-capital/i/duco-logo-stacked-dark-padding-512x512,c2936513 duco-logo-stacked-dark-padding-512x512 https://news.cision.com/nordic-capital/i/christian-nentwich-duco-feb-2019-7,c2936514 Christian Nentwich Duco Feb 2019-7 https://news.cision.com/nordic-capital/i/20-01-nc-emil-anderson-6778,c2936515 20 01 NC Emil Anderson 6778 https://news.cision.com/nordic-capital/i/nordic-capital-cross-logo-rgb,c2936516 Nordic Capital Cross logo RGB

SOURCE NORDIC CAPITAL
Vista will set new standards for comfort and residential-style luxury and will feature all veranda accommodations. All staterooms and suites feature beautifully appointed bathrooms with oversized rainforest showers, large vanities, and copious storage space. Penthouse, Oceania, and Vista Suites are ultra-spacious and true sea-going residences with an abundance of living and dining space for entertaining or simply relaxing. In a first for the brand, Vista will feature a new category of Concierge Level Veranda Staterooms dedicated to solo travelers.

The timeless decor of the accommodations reflects the best of residential design aesthetics to present guests with restful homelike spaces to relax and rejuvenate as they explore the world's most fascinating destinations. Bathed in soothing tones and detailed with multiple layers of luxurious furnishings, accents, and artwork, each stateroom and suite is a welcoming home away from home.

Veranda Stateroom

Measuring 291 square feet of living space including the private veranda, Vista's standard Veranda Staterooms are the epitome of spaciousness. Bathed in soft tones of harvest and wheat punctuated with seagrass and bold sienna, each is furnished with a queen size Tranquility Bed piled high with plush linens and plump pillows, a comfortable seating area, private veranda, thoughtful amenities, abundant storage space, and oversized bathroom.

Concierge Level Veranda Stateroom

Vista's Concierge Level Veranda Staterooms envelope guests in lavish comfort. Shades of cream and rich fawn set the tone for a luxuriant respite with an extravagantly dressed queen size Tranquility Bed, sumptuously comfortable sitting area and a private veranda to take in the marvels of the surrounding seascapes. All feature extraordinary closet and storage space, and a marble bath with walk-in rainforest shower. A wealth of additional amenities, such as a dedicated Concierge Lounge, room service from The Grand Dining Room, and free laundry services, elevates the experience to the sublime.

Concierge Level Solo Veranda Stateroom

Solo travelers have a fresh reason to delight in this new category of stateroom designed exclusively for them. Spacious and airy yet cozy, each features all of the comforts and luxuries world travelers expect and feature a seating area overlooking the private veranda, separate sleeping area with a sumptuously comfortable Tranquility Bed and copious storage space. Solo guests, like all sailing in Concierge Level, receive an astonishing array of amenities such as free laundry service and keycard access to the exclusive Concierge Lounge.

Penthouse Suite

An overabundance of space and elevated levels of luxury define the Penthouse Suite experience. Ingenious design and tony furnishings punctuate the space, which is resplendent in rich upholstery, fine leathers and stunning works of art. Measuring 440 square feet, Penthouse Suites feature the added luxuries of a walk-in closet, an oversized bath with dual vanities and of course, a large private veranda overlooking the sea. Penthouse guests also have a dedicated Butler and keycard access to the suites-only Executive Lounge with a dedicated Concierge.

Oceania Suite

Spacious and sophisticated with a metropolitan flair, the 14 Oceania Suites are situated in prime locations atop the ship to offer unparalleled views. Averaging approximately 1,000 to 1,200 square feet, each radiates an ambiance of exquisite residential luxury. Thoughtfully appointed living and dining spaces invite gracious entertaining, including the oversized private teak veranda, while the Master Bedroom provides the perfect retreat for relaxation with its grand king size bed, dressing room and opulent marble-clad bathroom. Each home away from home features the added luxury of a cozy study or guest studio and guest bathroom. Oceania Suites offer a dedicated Butler and keycard access to the suites-only Executive Lounge.

Vista Suite

Offering the loftiest of locations affording sweeping 180-degree views and 1,450 to 1,850 square feet of living space, the eight Vista Suites are designed to be the ultimate seaside villas. Swathed in subtle tones that pay deference to the sea and sky and accented by luminescent marbles, granites and rich weathered oak, each is a true retreat. The airy Living Room is flanked by a handsome Dining Room and bar area which feature commanding views and open onto the expansive teak veranda. An extravagant Master Suite features a capacious wardrobe room and dressing area adjacent to the oversized and sunlit Master Bath complete with porcelain soaking tub. Vista Suites offer an additional layer of pampering with 24-hour Butler service and access to the suites-only Executive Lounge.

Coming Soon

Owner's Suite - Details on Vista's Owner's Suites will be revealed at a later date.

Inaugural Season Itineraries - Vista's inaugural season itineraries will open for viewing on September 9, 2021 and go on sale the following week, on September 15, 2021.

About Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises is the world's leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line. The line's seven small, luxurious ships carry no more than 1,250 guests and feature the finest cuisine at sea and destination-rich itineraries that span the globe. Expertly curated travel experiences aboard the designer-inspired, small ships call on more than 450 marquee and boutique ports across Europe, Alaska, Asia, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, New England-Canada, Bermuda, the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, Tahiti and the South Pacific in addition to the epic 180-day Around the World Voyages. The brand has an additional 1,200-guest Allura Class ships on order for delivery in 2025.

With headquarters in Miami, Oceania Cruises is owned by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., a diversified cruise operator of leading global cruise brands which include Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

About Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: NCLH) is a leading global cruise company which operates the Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands. With a combined fleet of 28 ships with nearly 60,000 berths, these brands offer itineraries to more than 490 destinations worldwide. The Company has nine additional ships scheduled for delivery through 2027, comprising of approximately 24,000 berths.

SOURCE Oceania Cruises
DALLAS, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Oncor Electric Delivery Company LLC ("Oncor") plans to release its second quarter 2021 results on August 5, prior to Sempra's (NYSE: SRE) (BMV: SRE) second quarter 2021 conference call. Oncor's earnings release will be available on Oncor's website, oncor.com.

Sempra executives will conduct a conference call at 12 p.m. ET, Thursday, August 5 that will include discussion of Oncor's second quarter 2021 operational and financial results. Investors, media, analysts and the public may listen to a live webcast of the conference call on Sempra's website, sempra.com, by clicking on the appropriate audio link. Prior to the conference call, an accompanying slide presentation will be posted on Sempra's website.

For those unable to participate in the live webcast, a replay of Sempra's call will be available a few hours after its conclusion on Sempra's website or by dialing (888) 203-1112 and entering passcode 1398783.

Oncor's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2021 will be filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission after Sempra's conference call and, once filed, will also be available at oncor.com.

Headquartered in Dallas, Oncor Electric Delivery Company LLC is a regulated electricity distribution and transmission business that uses superior asset management skills to provide reliable electricity delivery to consumers. Oncor (together with its subsidiaries) operates the largest distribution and transmission system in Texas, delivering power to more than 3.7 million homes and businesses and operating more than 139,000 miles of transmission and distribution lines in Texas. While Oncor is owned by two investors (indirect majority owner, Sempra, and minority owner, Texas Transmission Investment LLC), Oncor is managed by its Board of Directors, which is comprised of a majority of disinterested directors.

SOURCE Oncor Electric Delivery Company, LLC
UPPSALA, Sweden, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- "First commercial DTx contract signed with a large healthcare provider"

Summary

Total net revenues of SEK 142.8 m (179.1)

(179.1) Net earnings of SEK -73.7 m (-32.5)

(-32.5) EBITDA of SEK -41.1 m (-9.0)

(-9.0) US Pharma segment (ZUBSOLV US) net revenues of SEK 126.0 m (172.5), in local currency USD 15.0 m (17.8), EBIT of SEK 61.6 m (88.8)

(172.5), in local currency (17.8), EBIT of (88.8) Cash flow from operating activities of SEK -20.9 m (-7.2), cash balance of SEK 679.7 m (677.2)

(-7.2), cash balance of (677.2) Two patents for ZUBSOLV, with protection until 2032, were issued by the US Patent and Trademark Office

First patient enrolled in pivotal study evaluating the efficacy of modia in combination with sublingual buprenorphine/naloxone for the treatment of opioid use disorder

Commercial agreement for vorvida and deprexis signed with Trinity Health North Dakota

Important events after the period

Commercial partnership agreement signed with Sober Grid, the largest global social media network for people in addiction recovery, giving a large group of users access to vorvida and deprexis

SEK m, unless otherwise stated 2021 Apr-Jun 2020 Apr-Jun 2021 Jan-Jun 2020 Jan-Jun 2020 Jan-Dec Net revenues 142.8 179.1 275.1 354.2 663.6 Cost of goods sold -18.1 -19.9 -37.4 -39.9 -65.6 Operating expenses -178.7 -172.5 -328.7 -293.6 -617.9 EBIT -54.0 -13.3 -90.9 20.7 -19.9 EBIT margin, % -37.8 -7.4 -33.1 5.8 -3.0 EBITDA -41.1 -9.0 -65.2 30.1 19.0 Earnings per share, before dilution, SEK -2.15 -0.94 -3.07 1.44 -2.45 Earnings per share, after dilution, SEK -2.15 -0.94 -3.07 1.44 -2.45 Cash flow from operating activities -20.9 -7.2 -68.7 40.9 16.8 Cash and cash equivalents 679.7 677.2 679.7 677.2 505.3

CEO Comments

"The second quarter of 2021 showed some positive operational highlights in both our Digital Therapeutics (DTx) business and US Pharma. In DTx, I'm pleased to announce we've among others reached a commercial agreement with Trinity Health North Dakota. As a result, vorvida and deprexis are now also available for patients at their healthcare centers and hospitals. This is a major milestone and is already now an inspiring model for other healthcare providers in the US. In our US Pharma business, it was confirmed that ZUBSOLV is available for patients within Medicaid in Kentucky since July 1, representing a growth opportunity for our lead pharma product."

For the full CEO Comments please view the PDF

For further information, please contact

Nikolaj Srensen, President and CEO, Joseph DeFeo, EVP and CFO, or Lena Wange, IR & Communications Director

Tel: +46 18 780 88 00, +1 855 982 7658, E-mail: [email protected]

Presentation

At 3.00 pm CET, the same day as the announcement of the report, Orexo invites analysts, investors and media to attend a presentation where Nikolaj Srensen, CEO and Joseph DeFeo, CFO, will present the report and host a Q&A.

Questions can also be sent in advance to [email protected], no later than 11.00 am CET.

Please view the instructions below on how to participate.

Internet: https://tv.streamfabriken.com/orexo-q2-2021

Telephone: SE + 46 8 50 55 83 50 UK + 44 33 33 00 92 70 US + 1 64 67 22 49 04

The presentation material will be available on Orexos website prior to the audiocast, view Investors/Reports, presentations and audicasts

This information is information that Orexo AB (publ.) is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact persons set out above, at 8.00 am CET on July 15, 2021.

CONTACT:

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/orexo/r/orexo-q2-2021-interim-report,c3385238

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/694/3385238/1445092.pdf Orexo Interim Report Q2 2021 published July 15

SOURCE Orexo
NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- OUTFRONT Media Inc. (NYSE: OUT) announced today that it will report results for the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2021 after the market closes on Thursday, August 5, 2021. The earnings announcement will be available in the Investor Relations section of the Company's website, www.OUTFRONTmedia.com.

The Company will host a conference call to discuss the results on Thursday, August 5, 2021 at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time. The conference call number is 800-458-4121 (U.S. callers) and 323-794-2093 (International callers) and the passcode for both is 5283729.

Live and replay versions of the conference call will be webcast in the Investor Relations section of the Company's website, www.OUTFRONTmedia.com.

About OUTFRONT Media Inc.

OUTFRONT leverages the power of technology, location and creativity to connect brands with consumers outside of their homes through one of the largest and most diverse sets of billboard, transit, and mobile assets in North America. Through its technology platform, OUTFRONT will fundamentally change the ways advertisers engage audiences on-the-go.

Contacts:

Investors

Media Gregory Lundberg

Courtney Richards Senior Vice President, Investor Relations

PR & Events Specialist (212) 297-6441

(646) 876-9404 [email protected]

[email protected]

SOURCE OUTFRONT Media Inc.

Related Links

http://www.outfrontmedia.com


SEATTLE, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Packaging executive Michael Treb of PAC Worldwide has been appointed to the Contract Packaging Assocation (CPA) board of directors. The 24-year industry veteran will serve a one-year term on the 10-person board, which focuses on continuing education, industry intelligence, and business development.

CPA is the largest and most influential group within the contract packaging market. Membership is largely comprised of the top contract packagers and contract manufacturers in the United States, the driving forces behind an industry segment with sales projected to top $121 billion by 2025 in North America, according to CPA's State of the Industry report. That represents a robust compound annual growth rate of 10.2%.

At PAC, Mr. Treb serves as Director of Strategic Accounts for PAC Contract Services. The division provides custom packaging and fulfillment services to Fortune 500 and e-commerce companies, as well as manufacturers seeking alternatives to inefficient internal operations. It operates from PAC's 216,000 square-foot production facility in Sharonville, Ohio, just north of Cincinnati.

Prior to joining the company, the Midwest native served as a national account and business development executive for an Ohio-based packaging organization. That followed a 19-year engagement with another company, where he led a six-person business development team focused on contract packaging and supplies.

The Ohio native now puts that experience to work across PAC's global customer footprint. Among the operational areas he oversees: point-of-purchase displays, kitting, blister packaging, shrink-wrap and banding, warehouse/pick & pack services, distribution, inventory management, and more. The integrated services model enables PAC Contract Services to support the customer from the development of initial package design all the way through to delivery.

"Michael's extensive knowledge of the contract packaging space makes him a powerful advocate for its value proposition," said PAC Worldwide EVP of Sales, Regional & National Accounts John Taylor. "We are excited to have him join leaders from other top companies in moving this segment of our industry forward."

About PAC Worldwide

Founded in 1975, PAC Worldwide Corporation has been a leader and innovator in the development and manufacturing of customized packaging and contract packaging solutions for more than 40 years. The privately-owned company employs nearly 2,000 team members through operations in the U.S., Mexico, and Malaysia.

CONTACT: Michael Shepherd

(206)224-3550

[email protected]

SOURCE PAC Worldwide
NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- As per insights by Fact.MR, revenue generated in the global paper bottles market is poised to expand by 1.8X from 2021 to 2031, totaling US$ 48 Mn by 2031 in comparison to the valuation of US$ 25 Mn registered in the year 2020.

With rise in demand for paper bottles in personal care and home care products, the market is likely to exhibit growth at a CAGR of 6% over the forecast period 2021-2031.

Paradigm shift in consumer behavior towards the adoption of sustainable packaging solutions is driving manufacturers to focus on green packaging, thereby driving the market growth. Consequently, paper bottles are gaining significant traction across different sectors including, healthcare, beauty, Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), foods and supplements among many others.

In addition, factors including, versatility of paper bottles due to their availability in different shapes, sizes, colors, and their recyclability will stimulate the sales over the forecast period.

According to a study by Fact.MR, commercial packaging under end-use segment is anticipated to dominate the paper bottles market, expanding at a CAGR of approximately 6%, surpassing US$ 21.7 Mn in 2021.

The market for paper bottles in the U.S. is expected to exhibit monumental growth owing to the ease in availability of raw materials, presence of robust production facilities and the presence of maximum market players. Despite impeded growth amid COVID-19 outbreak, the U.S. market registered 2.1% year-on-year growth in 2020.

"With rise in demand for sustainable solutions, the product packaging in alcohol industry will extensively witness a paradigm shift from metal/glass packaging to paper bottle packaging, thereby driving growth of paper bottles market," says the Fact.MR analyst

Request a report sample to gain comprehensive insights at

https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=1296

Key Takeaways from Paper Bottles Market Survey

The U.S. is expected to emerge as a lucrative market owing to the presence of robust consumer base and production facilities.

China accounted for over 51% of the East Asia market for paper bottles in 2020 and is forecast to project a healthy CAGR over the assessment period.

accounted for over 51% of the market for paper bottles in 2020 and is forecast to project a healthy CAGR over the assessment period. The U.K. market for paper bottles is estimated to reach a market valuation of US$ 1.7 Mn by the end of 2031.

by the end of 2031. Based on end use, commercial packaging is dominating and is expected to surpass a market valuation of US$ 21.7 Mn by the end of 2021.

by the end of 2021. Based on type, with 117 BPS, blowing agents under packaging paper bottle are expected to surpass a market valuation of US$ 38 Mn by 2031.

Key Drivers

Increasing demand for sustainable packaging is driving sales of paper bottles across the globe.

Rising demand for paper bottles across various sectors such as cosmetics, e-commerce, healthcare is creating vast opportunities of growth for paper bottles market.

Key Restraints

Difficulty faced in sourcing of raw materials is a key factor impeding growth of the market.

Shorter shelf life of paper bottles are hampering the market sales.

Request Paper Bottles Market Customization at

https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=RC&rep_id=1296

Competitive Landscape

Paper bottles manufacturers are undertaking strategies such as new product offerings and innovations to enhance product portfolio. In addition, they are also entering into strategic collaborations and acquisitions to strengthen their footprint in the market.

For instance, in 2020, Pepsico joined the consortium of leading consumer goods companies, which also included Unilever to further enhance and scale the first-of-its-kind recyclable paper bottles, primarily manufactured by Pilot Lite and Diageo. This consortium aims at delivering sustainable packaging across distinct sectors and industries, thereby taking a step forward towards curtailing plastic consumption across the globe.

Iin 2020, Coca-Cola announced its partnership with Danish startup Paboco to develop a 100% paper bottle. This partnership coordinates with Coca-Cola's aim to minimize use of virgin packaging materials and use only 100% recyclable packaging materials.

Some of the leading players operating in the paper bottles market profiled by Fact.MR are:

Paper Water Bottle

Choose Packaging

Frugalpac

ELOPAK Group

ABSOLUT

DIAGEO

Stora Enso

TIKKUM OALM MAKERS

SIG Combibloc Group Ltd.

3EPack Group

BioPak

Tetra Pak

Ecological Brands Inc.

Billerudkorsnas

Paboco

More Valuable Insights on Paper Bottles Market

Fact.MR, in its new report, offers an unbiased analysis of the global paper bottles market, analyzing forecast statistics through 2021 and beyond. The survey reveals growth projections on in paper bottles market with detailed segmentation:

Type

Paper Water Bottles



Paper Packaging Bottles

Compostability

Fully Compostable Paper Bottles



Partially Compostable Paper Bottles

Volume

Less than 1 Litre Paper Bottles



1-2 Litre Paper Bottles



More than 2 Litre Paper Bottles

End Use

Paper Bottles for Household



Paper Bottles for Commercial Packaging



Wine and spirits





Food and supplements





Personal care products





Home care products





Pet Care Products





Others

Sales Channel

Offline Sales of Paper Bottles



Direct Procurement





Retail Sales





Supermarkets & Hypermarkets





Specialty Stores



Online Sales of Paper Bottles



Company Websites





Third-party Online

Key Questions Covered in the Paper Bottles Market Report

The market survey also highlights projected sales growth for paper bottles market between 2021 and 2031

The report offers insight into paper bottles demand outlook for forecast period 2021-2031

Paper bottles market share analysis of the key companies within the industry and coverage of strategies such as mergers & acquisitions, collaborations or partnerships, and others

Paper bottles market analysis identifies key growth drivers, restraints, and other forces impacting prevailing trends and evaluation of current market size and forecast and technological advancements within the industry

Explore Fact. MR's Coverage on the Consumer Goods Domain

Paper Trays Market - The market for paper trays is mostly impacted by rising demand from supermarkets around the world. Due to continuous plastic prohibitions for environmental reasons, the FMCG packaging landscape has changed, with sellers of FMCG products and other consumer goods, such as food and beverages, opting for paper trays and its variants, such as fibre paper trays. On the back of environmentally friendly paper trays, sustainability and fit for purpose paper trays are making a fresh entrance among food chains and supermarkets.

Paper Carrier Bags Market - Paper carrier bag manufacturers create bags in a variety of dimensions, sizes, and colors. Printability is another advantage of paper carrier bags for branding and promotion. Due to the global drive for the adoption of sustainable solutions, the paper carrier bag market is likely to increase over the research period. During the projected period, the worldwide paper carrier bags market is expected to rise at a healthy pace.



Cigarette Paper Market - Given the fact that rates in Western Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America are relatively lower, these countries have seen massive increases in consumption in recent years. The majority of smokers are men; however, the growing number of female smokers, rising living standards, and the acceptance of smoking as a fashion trend have broadened the market for cigarette paper manufacturers. The demand for roll your own cigarette paper will skyrocket in the coming years as cannabis consumption rises.

About Fact.MR

Market research and consulting agency with a difference! That's why 80% of Fortune 1,000 companies trust us for making their most critical decisions. We have offices in US and Dublin, whereas our global headquarter is in Dubai. While our experienced consultants employ the latest technologies to extract hard-to-find insights, we believe our USP is the trust clients have on our expertise. Spanning a wide range  from automotive & industry 4.0 to consumer goods & retail, our coverage is expansive, but we ensure even the most niche categories are analyzed. Reach out to us with your goals, and we'll be an able research partner.

Contact:

Mahendra Singh

US Sales Office:

11140 Rockville Pike

Suite 400

Rockville, MD 20852

United States

Tel: +1 (628) 251-1583

E: [email protected]

SOURCE Fact.MR
Deputy director of CND Management Committee Li Hao and director of CND Investment Promotion Bureau Luo Xiaoxia attended the event, accompanied by commercial consul of the Consulate General of Italy in Shanghai Alessandra Palumbo, director of China-Italy Chamber of Commerce (CICC) Suzhou Giacomo Bove and representatives from the consulting firms that helped to facilitate the partnership.

CND continues to promote exchanges and partnerships with Italian companies with a focus on leveraging resources across channels to seek opportunities in different industry fields. CND is quite well-known among Italian companies as one of China's most attractive investment destinations for its strategic geographical location, comprehensive infrastructure, large talent pool and business-friendly environment. So far, 14 enterprises from Italy have set facilities in CND. The signing of the agreement paving the way for the construction of a production plant for high-end packaging materials marks the cooperation achievement between Pelliconi and CND also opens a new chapter for Italian group's continuous expansion in the Chinese market. Pelliconi has long been known for its commitment to embracing change and innovation. The company has built a good reputation worldwide for its high-quality, low-carbon and environmentally-friendly packaging materials. With its mature business concept and advanced manufacturing technologies, Pelliconi expects to accelerate its growth with the new Changzhou facility and the revenue that the facility is expected to generate for the group's global operations. The signing of the agreement also represents a milestone for CND with the vitality that the facility will inject into the high quality development. CND will provide more high-quality, convenient and efficient service for the project and ensure the smooth construction of the project and the early completion of the project.

About Changzhou National Hi-Tech District (CND)

Changzhou National Hi-Tech District (CND) is located in the heart of the Yangtze River Delta. There are more than 1,800 foreign-invested companies in CND. Related link: http://cznd.changzhou.gov.cn/

SOURCE Changzhou National Hi-Tech District

Related Links

www.cznd.gov.cn


LOS ANGELES, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Pembrook Capital Management LLC ("Pembrook"), one of the nation's leading bridge lenders for affordable rental housing, announced a donation to the Bassett Street Elementary School Media Arts and Technology Magnet (bMAT) program, an educational initiative for kindergarten through fifth grade students in Lake Balboa, California, part of the greater Los Angeles market.

The Bassett Street Elementary school serves the Lake Balboa/Van Nuys community and Pembrook's donation will be used to support its highly regarded Bassett Media Arts and Technology Magnet (bMAT) program, a project-based learning program designed to grow young storytellers for the digital age. The program helps kids learn about film and video production through a fun and rigorous educational environment using state of the art technology

Pembrook is an investment manager focused on providing loans and other financing for the development, rehabilitation, and preservation of affordable housing, and certain other commercial real estate properties, in underserved areas on a national basis. This latest donation is part of its ongoing program to provide financial support to public schools in neighborhoods where it does business, targeted to total up to 3% of the firm's annual profits. The firm recently provided a preferred equity investment for the acquisition and renovation of 6736 Woodley Avenue, a two-story, 24-unit multifamily asset located in the Van Nuys market.

"Pembrook is honored to support the Bassett Media Arts and Technology Magnet program," said Stuart Boesky, CEO of Pembrook. "Our goal as a company is to give back to the areas we invest in by supporting local education, the foundation for growth and success in any community. We're particularly excited to champion the bMAT program, which is helping to cultivate the storytellers of tomorrow by teaching kids how to investigate and develop conclusions based on evidence, skills which are more important than ever."

Pembrook has already provided financial support to schools in several major cities across the United States, matching each lending transaction with a local school donation. The firm has originated or participated in investments totaling approximately $1.5 billion since it began investing in 2007.

About Pembrook Capital Management, LLC

Founded in 2006 by Stuart J. Boesky, Pembrook Capital Management invests in a variety of commercial real estate with a core emphasis on impact investing and affordable housing across the country. This firm's strategy involves commercial real estate debt, including first mortgages, mezzanine, bridge loans, note financings, and preferred equity. http://www.pembrookgroup.com/

Media Contact

Great Ink Communications, (212) 741-2977

Tom Nolan ([email protected])

Eric Waters ([email protected])

SOURCE Pembrook

Related Links

http://www.pembrookgroup.com/


CINCINNATI, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- P&G Ventures is excited to announce the winner of the fifth Innovation Challenge is NanoSpun Technologies represented by Founder and CEO Ohad Bendror (Bendas). NanoSpun, which develops and produces disruptive, first-of-its-kind, live-active biological tissues for skincare, medical and industrial applications, will receive $10,000 and the opportunity to continue developing their product and brand under the guidance of P&G Ventures.

"NanoSpun is honored to be selected as the winner of P&G Ventures' Innovation Challenge," said Bendror (Bendas). "I'm grateful for the opportunity to present our innovation alongside other passionate and inspiring entrepreneurs, and to receive support from P&G  a company that has played a key role in the development of so many successful brands. Recognition from P&G and the support and opportunity to work with P&G Ventures is invaluable, and we are excited to build a relationship with them."

All of the competition's finalists will be joining alumni from past Innovation Challenges in P&G Ventures' Alumni Group. This assembly of entrepreneurs will continue to receive training, support and resources from P&G Ventures, as well as the opportunity to network amongst some of the most promising CPG startups across a variety of sectors. In addition to NanoSpun Technologies, the latest cohort of new additions include these finalists:

One Skin , based in San Francisco, CA and represented by Co-Founder Juliana Carvalho , is the first topical supplement designed to extend your skin's lifespan on a molecular level, improving skin health and strength, and providing users with youthful skin for longer.

, based in and represented by Co-Founder , is the first topical supplement designed to extend your skin's lifespan on a molecular level, improving skin health and strength, and providing users with youthful skin for longer. Ready, Set, Food! , based in Los Angeles, CA and represented by CEO & Co-Founder Daniel Zakowski , is a ground-breaking solution to early allergen introduction, making it easy for families to follow new food allergy prevention medical guidelines.

, based in and represented by CEO & Co-Founder , is a ground-breaking solution to early allergen introduction, making it easy for families to follow new food allergy prevention medical guidelines. Wellesley Pharmaceuticals , based in Yardley, PA and represented by CEO & President David Dill , created Nocturol  a pill designed to provide 8 hours of protection for those who suffer from frequent bathroom trips overnight.

Finalists had the opportunity to pitch their startups to a panel of expert judges, including Alex Betancourt , Vice President of P&G Ventures, Anu Duggal , Founding Partner of Female Founders Fund, Mike Jensen , Senior Vice President of Research & Development at P&G Ventures, and Michael Olmstead , Chief Revenue Officer of Plug and Play. Pitches were followed by a Q&A session, where judges got a closer look into the visions, goals and passions of these entrepreneurs.

"These Innovation Challenges have become a key way for P&G Ventures to connect with early-stage brands, businesses and startups in the fast-moving consumer goods space," said Betancourt. "P&G is committed to improving the lives of our customers, and at P&G Ventures we partner with startups who share that mission. We congratulate NanoSpun for winning our latest challenge, and we applaud all the finalists on their efforts. We can't wait to see where you go with your innovations."

The entire Innovation Challenge is available to view here . P&G Ventures is always looking for the next billion-dollar brand, and Innovation Challenges are just one of the ways they connect with innovators. Follow P&G Ventures on LinkedIn and Twitter to stay informed on how they are connecting with entrepreneurs all year long.

About Procter and Gamble

P&G serves consumers around the world with one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Always, Ambi Pur, Ariel, Bounty, Charmin, Crest, Dawn, Downy, Fairy, Febreze, Gain, Gillette, Head & Shoulders, Lenor, Olay, Oral-B, Pampers, Pantene, SK-II, Tide, Vicks, and Whisper. The P&G community includes operations in approximately 70 countries worldwide. Please visit http://www.pg.com for the latest news and information about P&G and its brands.

Media Contact:

Jennifer Byrne, [email protected]

Taylor Anderson, [email protected]

SOURCE Procter & Gamble
Fund Provides a Wide Range of China Investment Opportunities

HONG KONG and SHANGHAI, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Ping An of China Asset Management (Hong Kong) Co., Ltd. (PAAMC HK), has obtained mutual recognition authorized by Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong (SFC) for the public offering of its first Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities (UCITS) umbrella fund in Hong Kong, announced Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. (hereafter "Ping An" or the "Group", HKEX: 2318; SSE: 601318).

Ping An of China Asset Management Fund (the Fund), together with its four key Sub-Funds, have been authorized for offering to the public in Hong Kong since 16 June 2021. The Fund's investment strategy builds on Ping An's track record of more than 20 years of successful investment in China equity and fixed income markets. It uses Ping An's offshore investment arm PAAMC HK's systematic, quantitative and scientific investment methodologies to offer investors a wide range of investment opportunities in China with flexibility and efficiency.

Each of the four Sub-Funds managed by PAAMC HK has a unique investment objective and strategy:

China A-Shares AI Multi-Factor Fund

This Sub-Fund employs multi-factor models to construct a well-diversified equity portfolio. It uses advanced artificial intelligence (AI) techniques for stock selection and portfolio optimization. It aims to achieve stable excess returns above the benchmark China Securities Index (CSI) 300 Total Return Index. In addition to applying common factors in the market, Ping An's AI quantitative researchers have developed proprietary factors to enhance its performance and to reduce correlations with other quantitative funds.

China Green Bond Fund

This Sub-Fund mainly invests in China and emerging markets green bonds that are aligned with international standards. This Sub-Fund helps to promote green financing and to advance environmentally friendly investments and social awareness in China and other emerging countries. Bolstered by strong domestic economic recovery and policy support, China green bonds not only help investors capture China's green opportunities, but also mitigate risk due to its low correlations to other major asset classes.

China High-Yield Private Strategy Bond Fund

This Sub-Fund aims to achieve absolute return from investment income and long-term capital appreciation, primarily investing in high-yield corporate bonds and debt securities. It may also invest in debt securities issued by sovereign, government agencies and/or companies having main operations in mainland China.

Emerging Market Income Fund

This Sub-Fund is designed to achieve absolute return from income and long-term capital appreciation by investing at least 60% of its net assets in debt securities issued by sovereign, government agencies and/or companies having main operations in emerging market countries.

Mr. Hoi Tung, Chairman and CEO of Ping An Overseas Holdings, said, "We are delighted to introduce these new funds to the Hong Kong market. Leveraging the strength of Ping An's investment expertise in China, these funds can help Hong Kong investors capitalize on the diverse investment opportunities of China's growth."

Mr. Chi Kit Chai, Head of Capital Markets and Chief Investment Officer, PAAMC HK, said, "We are very excited to further broaden our fund offering to Hong Kong investors. Ping An is one of the largest financial companies in the world with strong presence in China. We continue to see strong investor demand for Chinese assets given a confluence of factors, such as yield pick-up, green opportunities and diversification benefits."

Related Links

www.group.pingan.com



SOURCE Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd.
HONG KONG and SHANGHAI, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Ping An of China Asset Management (Hong Kong) Co., Ltd. (PAAMC HK), has obtained mutual recognition authorized by Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong (SFC) for the public offering of its first Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities (UCITS) umbrella fund in Hong Kong, announced Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. (hereafter "Ping An" or the "Group", HKEX: 2318; SSE: 601318).

Ping An of China Asset Management Fund (the Fund), together with its four key Sub-Funds, have been authorized for offering to the public in Hong Kong since 16 June 2021. The Fund's investment strategy builds on Ping An's track record of more than 20 years of successful investment in China equity and fixed income markets. It uses Ping An's offshore investment arm PAAMC HK's systematic, quantitative and scientific investment methodologies to offer investors a wide range of investment opportunities in China with flexibility and efficiency.

Each of the four Sub-Funds managed by PAAMC HK has a unique investment objective and strategy:

China A-Shares AI Multi-Factor Fund

This Sub-Fund employs multi-factor models to construct a well-diversified equity portfolio. It uses advanced artificial intelligence (AI) techniques for stock selection and portfolio optimization. It aims to achieve stable excess returns above the benchmark China Securities Index (CSI) 300 Total Return Index. In addition to applying common factors in the market, Ping An's AI quantitative researchers have developed proprietary factors to enhance its performance and to reduce correlations with other quantitative funds.

China Green Bond Fund

This Sub-Fund mainly invests in China and emerging markets green bonds that are aligned with international standards. This Sub-Fund helps to promote green financing and to advance environmentally friendly investments and social awareness in China and other emerging countries. Bolstered by strong domestic economic recovery and policy support, China green bonds not only help investors capture China's green opportunities, but also mitigate risk due to its low correlations to other major asset classes.

China High-Yield Private Strategy Bond Fund

This Sub-Fund aims to achieve absolute return from investment income and long-term capital appreciation, primarily investing in high-yield corporate bonds and debt securities. It may also invest in debt securities issued by sovereign, government agencies and/or companies having main operations in mainland China.

Emerging Market Income Fund

This Sub-Fund is designed to achieve absolute return from income and long-term capital appreciation by investing at least 60% of its net assets in debt securities issued by sovereign, government agencies and/or companies having main operations in emerging market countries.

Mr. Hoi Tung, Chairman and CEO of Ping An Overseas Holdings, said, "We are delighted to introduce these new funds to the Hong Kong market. Leveraging the strength of Ping An's investment expertise in China, these funds can help Hong Kong investors capitalize on the diverse investment opportunities of China's growth."

Mr. Chi Kit Chai, Head of Capital Markets and Chief Investment Officer, PAAMC HK, said, "We are very excited to further broaden our fund offering to Hong Kong investors. Ping An is one of the largest financial companies in the world with strong presence in China. We continue to see strong investor demand for Chinese assets given a confluence of factors, such as yield pick-up, green opportunities and diversification benefits."

About Ping An Group

Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. ("Ping An") is a world-leading technology-powered retail financial services group. With over 220 million retail customers and 611 million internet users, Ping An is one of the largest financial services companies in the world. Ping An focuses on two over-arching domains of activity, "pan financial assets" and "pan health care", covering the provision of financial and health care services through our integrated financial services platform and our ecosystems; in financial services, health care, auto services and smart city services. Our "finance + technology" and "finance + ecosystem" transformation strategies aim to provide customers and internet users with innovative and simple products and services using technology. As China's first joint stock insurance company, Ping An is committed to upholding the highest standards of corporate reporting and corporate governance. The Group is listed on the stock exchanges in Hong Kong and Shanghai. Ping An ranked 6th in the Forbes Global 2000 list in 2021 and ranked 21st in the Fortune Global 500 list in 2020. Ping An also ranked 49th in the 2021 WPP Kantar Millward Brown BrandZTM Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands list.

For more information, please visit www.group.pingan.com and follow us on LinkedIn - PING AN.

About Ping An of China Asset Management (Hong Kong)

Ping An of China Asset Management (Hong Kong) Co., Ltd. was established in 2006. It is a direct subsidiary of China Ping An Insurance Overseas (Holdings) Limited and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. (2318.HK and 601318.SH). It is licensed by the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong to conduct Type 1 (Dealing in Securities), Type 4 (Advising on Securities) and Type 9 (Asset Management) regulated activities. With strong capabilities in investment research and asset management, PAAMC HK is a leading provider of global investment management solutions in equities, fixed income, ETFs, structured products and alternative assets. For more information, please visit asset.pingan.com.hk. (This website has not been reviewed by the SFC)

SOURCE Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd.

Related Links

www.group.pingan.com


NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/-- Planet Green Holdings Corp. (the "Company") (NYSE American: PLAG) announced that the Company has entered into a Share Exchange Agreement with Anhui Ansheng Petrochemical Equipment Co., Ltd. ("Target") and each shareholder of the Target (collectively "Sellers") today. Pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement, the Company will acquire 66% of outstanding equity interests of the Target, a company that researches, develops and manufactures insulation type explosion-proof skid-mounted refueling equipment, LNG cryogenic equipment and SF double deck oil storage tank and sells such products in China.

Pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement, the company will issue 4,800,000 shares of common stock of the Company to the Sellers in exchange for the transfer of 66% of the equity interest of the Target. The transaction is subject to closing conditions that are customary for transactions of this type.

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as "anticipate", "believe", "expect", "estimate", "plan", "outlook", and "project" and other similar expressions that indicate future events or trends or are not statements of historical matters. These statements are based on our management's current expectations and beliefs, as well as a number of assumptions concerning future events.

Such forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside of our control and all of which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing our views as of any subsequent date, and we do not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in forward-looking statements can be found in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available, free of charge, on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov .

For more information please contact:

Ms. Lili Hu Chief Financial Officer Phone: 718 799 0380 Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Planet Green Holdings Corp.

Related Links

http://www.planetgreenholdings.com/


"Pratt & Whitney Canada is proud to be a leader toward ever more sustainable aircraft propulsion technologies and be an integral part of Canada's green recovery plan," said Maria Della Posta, president, Pratt & Whitney Canada. "With a long-time commitment to sustainability and as Canada's top aerospace investor in research & development , having invested $500M CAD annually, we are driving economic growth, innovation and workforce expertise to benefit the environment. Hybrid-electric technology has an important role to play in enabling the next step-change in efficiency for aircraft engines, and we are uniquely positioned to demonstrate this potential."

The new hybrid-electric propulsion technology will drive significant improvements in aircraft efficiency by optimizing performance across the different phases of flight, allowing the demonstrator to target a 30% reduction in fuel burn and CO 2 emissions, compared to a modern regional turboprop airliner. P&WC is working with De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (De Havilland Canada) to integrate this hybrid-electric technology into a De Havilland Canada Dash 8-100 flight demonstrator. This demonstrator will include an advanced electric motor and controller from Collins Aerospace, also a Raytheon Technologies business.

As part of Canada's green recovery plan, the Government of Canada's Strategic Innovation Fund is backing the technology demonstrator, which will help put Canada's aerospace industry at the forefront of global efforts to make aviation more sustainable. The Government of Quebec is supporting this project through Investissement Quebec and the Ministere de l'Economie et de l'Innovation, as part of an initiative known as, "Aeronef pour la mobilite numerique et verte de demain" (Green and Digital Aircraft of Tomorrow).

Combining advanced technologies developed by P&WC and Collins, this project is a successor to Project 804, launched in 2019 as a joint development program between the two companies and provides a solid foundation for this new demonstrator program to build upon. P&WC will target ground testing in 2022, leading to flight testing of the Dash 8-100 demonstrator in 2024.

Developing hybrid-electric propulsion technology is a core element of Pratt & Whitney's strategy to make aviation more sustainable. The company is also committed to continually advancing the efficiency of gas turbine engines across its portfolio, while supporting the wider use of sustainable aviation fuels, and pursuing alternative fuels. All these elements will be critical for the aviation industry to meet its goals to significantly reduce CO 2 emissions by 2050. The company will continue to work with industry partners globally on a wide variety of projects targeted at increasingly sustainable aviation to benefit our customers and the environment.

The company supports the industry's efforts to coordinate and accelerate the development of green aviation technologies in Canada, bringing together stakeholders from the Canadian aerospace ecosystem, from supply chain to academia to government organizations. This will help ensure Canada's aerospace sector is in a strong position to play a leading role in the global drive to innovate new, low carbon technologies.

"Canada has an opportunity to demonstrate environmental leadership in the aviation sector," said Dave Riggs, Chief Transformation Officer, De Havilland Canada. "De Havilland Canada has a legacy of innovation that has supported aviation in Canada and around the world for more than 90 years and we are immensely proud to be the first manufacturer of regional aircraft supporting the development of hybrid-electric propulsion technology. We look forward to collaborating with Pratt & Whitney Canada and governments in Canada to further the development of alternative, climate-friendly technology that holds much potential to contribute to more sustainable aviation."

"These are major projects that will drive Quebec into the future! We will develop tomorrow's helicopters and airplanes today, in Quebec. These aircraft will contribute to the economy, while reducing CO2 emissions. The aerospace industry will relaunch with vigor. Your government will be there to reinforce our leadership and ensure a strong future for Quebec's aerospace industry," says Francois Legault, Premier of Quebec.

"Quebec's aerospace industry is a key sector in our sustainable economic development plan. We will differentiate ourselves by relying on new technologies and innovation. Quebec will be in a stronger position to conquer new markets, increase productivity and foster the electrification of transportation with the projects announced today by Bell Textron Canada, CAE and Pratt & Whitney Canada," explains Eric Girard, Minister of Finance and Minister of Economy and Innovation.

"The aerospace sector is a pillar of the Canadian economy, providing good jobs for Canadian workers from coast to coast to coast. It's essential that we support the long-term growth of the sector and help make Canada a world leader in greener, more innovative technologies. The investments announced today will help the aerospace sector increase its research and development efforts so that innovative, greener, more sustainable aircraft can be built right here in Canada for decades to come, creating good jobs for hard-working Canadians," states the Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry.

For further information, please contact:

Catherine Cunningham, Communications, Pratt & Whitney Canada, [email protected], 514-240-9568.

Nadia Talbot, Presse officer, Premier of Quebec, 418-642-5321.

Mathieu St-Amand, Director of Communications, Minister of Finance and Minister of Economy and Innovation, 418-691-5650.

About Pratt & Whitney

Pratt & Whitney, a unit of Raytheon Technologies (NYSE:RTX) is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft and helicopter engines, and auxiliary power units. Raytheon Technologies Corporation is an aerospace and defense company that provides advanced systems and services for commercial, military and government customers worldwide. To learn more about RTX, visit its website at www.rtx.com. To receive press releases and other news directly, please sign up here.

SOURCE Pratt & Whitney

Related Links

http://www.pratt-whitney.com


LAS VEGAS, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Premier Trust, a leading Nevada-chartered trust company, announced 20 years of business growth and success. As the largest independent trust company in Nevada, the firm supports over 6,000 Nevada trusts with more than $1.5 billion in assets under administration. Premier Trust is a subsidiary of Advisor Group, the nation's largest network of independent wealth management firms.

During its two decades in business, Premier Trust has supported a rapidly growing demand for intergenerational asset protection and professional trust services, seeing a 39% increase in year-over-year account originations in 2020 alone. Contributing to its growth is the firm's financial professional-friendly trust model, which has enabled Premier Trust to focus solely on the administration of trusts, partnering alongside wealth managers, attorneys, and CPAs rather than competing with them.

Founded in 2001 by Mark Dreschler, who has served as President and CEO since inception, Premier Trust has maintained its goal of building long-lasting, personal relationships with professionals and clients by assisting them in providing trust administration services according to their individual wishes. The firm's clients nationwide benefit from Nevada's top trust laws while maintaining continuity in their investment plans by retaining their outside financial and legal partners.

Mark Dreschler, President, CEO, and Founder of Premier Trust, said, "We are honored to serve as the trust company of choice for many professionals and families across the country. Since our founding 20 years ago, our mission has remained the same  to provide our clients with unparalleled service. We appreciate the consistent growth and strong relationships we have developed since 2001, and we look forward to continuing to support professionals and families in preserving their legacy for generations to come."

About Premier Trust

Premier Trust is a Nevada chartered trust company providing independent administrative trustee services to clients across the nation seeking experienced trust administration and to benefit from Nevada's favorable trust, corporate, asset protection and tax laws. Premier Trust administers trusts and does not manage investments or provide legal advice. For more information, please visit https://premiertrust.com/.

About Advisor Group

Advisor Group, Inc. is the nation's largest network of independent wealth management firms, serving approximately 11,100 financial professionals and overseeing over $450 billion in client assets. The firm is mission-driven to support the strategic role that advisors can play in the lives of their clients. Cultivating a spirit of entrepreneurship and independence, Advisor Group champions the enduring value of financial professionals and is committed to being in their corner every step of the way. For more information visit https://www.advisorgroup.com.

Securities and investment advisory services are offered through the firms: FSC Securities Corporation, Royal Alliance Associates, Inc., SagePoint Financial, Inc., Triad Advisors, LLC, and Woodbury Financial Services, Inc., broker-dealers, registered investment advisers, and members of FINRA and SIPC. Securities are offered through Securities America, Inc., a broker-dealer and member of FINRA and SIPC. Advisory services are offered through Arbor Point Advisors, LLC, Ladenburg Thalmann Asset Management, Inc., Securities America Advisors, Inc., and Triad Hybrid Solutions, LLC, registered investment advisers. Advisory programs offered by FSC Securities Corporation, Royal Alliance Associates, Inc., SagePoint Financial, Inc., and Woodbury Financial Services, Inc., are sponsored by VISION2020 Wealth Management Corp., an affiliated registered investment adviser. Advisor Group, Inc. is an affiliate of these firms. 20 E. Thomas Rd., Ste. 2000, Phoenix, AZ, 85012. 866.481.0379.

Contact:

Andrew Wang or Donald Cutler

424-317-4859 or 424-317-4864

[email protected] or [email protected]

SOURCE Premier Trust; Advisor Group

Related Links

https://premiertrust.com/


This Latest Investment Round Is Led By Gron Ventures, Subversive Capital, Ceres Group Holdings

LOS ANGELES, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Pure Beauty, the California-based boutique cannabis brand that combines art, culture and style with sustainable and social justice practices, today announced that it has successfully raised $5 million in convertible note fundraising from a consortium of investors led by Gron Ventures, Subversive Capital, Ceres Group Holdings, and notable celebrities including Timbaland, Nas and director Tom Kuntz, among others.

"Our mission is to bring distinct and elevated products to market while being mindful of the social and environmental implications intrinsic to cannabis," said Imelda Walavalkar, CEO of Pure Beauty. "Fundraising allows us to further build out our capabilities and product offerings while retaining the integrity of our core values."

Michael Auerbach, founder of Subversive Capital and a leading cannabis investor, said "Pure Beauty is one of the most innovative and intimate brands to emerge within the California cannabis market. We believe in the founders Imelda, Tracy, and Irwin's mission to completely redefine the brand landscape in this category, with a focus on a consistent product, a heightened user experience, unique product offerings and authentic engagement with both legacy and new users. To put it simply, Pure Beauty truly is pure beauty." "Pure Beauty is rich, and I don't mean it's for rich people," said Timbaland, brand investor and advisor. "It is universal  it hits from all sides creatively. The flower is beautiful and it helps my creative process. The brand's vision and outlook on sustainability sets it apart. Pure Beauty's cultural openness and ability to reach so many different people is key to destigmatizing the plant. Defeating the stigma is important to me not, just as an artist, but because of its role in the ongoing war on drugs."

The funds will support the brand's expansion into new markets, as well as building out the product development team to further support growing customer demand. Pure Beauty will expand into its first market outside of California this fall in partnership with Gage Growth Corp, a leading high-quality premium cannabis brand and operator in Michigan.

ABOUT PURE BEAUTY

Founded in 2017 by entrepreneurs Imelda Walavalkar, Tracy Anderson and Irwin Tobias Matutina, Pure Beauty is a boutique cannabis lifestyle brand that represents a movement to create an inclusive, potent community that emphasizes  and always seeks to advance  high-quality products, creative culture, sustainable practices and social justice initiatives within the green space.

Since its inception, Pure Beauty has been committed to environmental responsibility within its cultivation sites, as the company enforces the reprocessing of water using HVAC and dehumidifiers, the donation of soil to public parks and the use of environmentally conscious packaging to minimize waste.

The brand's dedication to art and style, environmental stewardship and societal equity informs the development of each of its products. Pure Beauty offers high-grade flower (in multiple strains), pre-rolled joints (including miniaturized "Babies"), pre-rolled cannabis cigarettes and a 100-milligram beverage called Little Strong Drink. Pure Beauty's products are available for purchase throughout California.

The Pure Beauty Drugstore, an ecommerce platform that expands the brand beyond cannabis into a lifestyle, houses a highly curated selection of merchandise within the brand's major cultural pillars of art, music, furniture, apparel and accessories.

Learn more at purebeautypurebeauty.co.

IMAGERY

SOURCE Pure Beauty

Related Links

https://purebeautypurebeauty.co


The Rensair hospital-grade air purifier is included within the 'Lighting Disinfectants' category. To make the list, a selection committee evaluated the product using four criteria: effectiveness, safety (to both patients and healthcare workers), successful real-world implementation and the stability of the company (to support future implementations).

Leapfrog also evaluated the quality of research studies demonstrating the product's effectiveness by looking at reproducibility, closeness between lab data/results and real-world application of the data/results, and closeness of fit between the choice of test or method of testing and what was being tested for.

"We are proud to be included in this evidence-based list of infection prevention products that evaluates real-world implementation", said Christian Hendriksen, Co-founder and CEO of Rensair. "Safe, breathable air has never been more important, but COVID-19 is not the only threat. Hospitals also need protection against the rise in multidrug-resistant, airborne bacterial infections, which claim at least 700,000 lives per year worldwide and are projected to cause 10 million deaths per year by 2050. "

Rensair's patented technology was developed in Denmark to meet the strict air quality requirements of Scandinavian hospitals. Its efficacy is documented by several independent scientific laboratories, including Eurofins, Norconsult, and Oslo University Hospital. Tests conducted by the Danish Technological Institute in March 2021, which used aerosolized MS2 bacteriophages as a proxy for Covid-19, further proved its efficiency at capturing and inactivating the Coronavirus family of viruses.

On the back of these credentials, Rensair's trusted technology has been adopted by doctor and dental practices, care homes and hospitals worldwide, including several NHS trusts in the UK. With operations in the UK, Europe, the USA and Asia, the company has recently expanded its client base beyond the health sector, enabling both public and private organisations to benefit from a safer working environment. Clients include multinationals, manufacturers, educational establishments, and hospitality venues.

Editor's notes

Rensair is a specialist in air purification, protecting and enhancing lives through clean air. Our patented technology, which combines H13 HEPA filtration with germicidal UVC light, was developed to meet the strict standards of Scandinavian hospitals and is independently validated by scientific research laboratories. Rensair air purification units meet all the standards recommended by the US EPA and UK SAGE committee in their respective reports on air purifiers. In the context of the pandemic, air purification has never been more important. Our mission is to get organisations back on their feet, by providing a safer environment. We destroy a minimum of 99.97% of airborne viruses, including coronavirus, ensuring clean air for each person.

rensair.com

LinkedIn / Twitter

Photo- https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1574294/RENSAIR_Triple_Unit.jpg

Related Links

https://rensair.com



SOURCE Rensair
NEW YORK, July 14, 2021 /PRNewswire/ --

WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of the securities of Washington Prime Group Inc. (NYSE: WPG) between November 5, 2020 and March 4, 2021, inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important July 23, 2021 lead plaintiff deadline.

SO WHAT: If you purchased Washington Prime Group securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.

WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Washington Prime Group class action, go to http://www.rosenlegal.com/cases-register-2102.html or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] or [email protected] for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than July 23, 2021. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.

WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, throughout the Class Period defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Washington Prime Group's financial condition was deteriorating substantially; (2) as a result, there was substantial uncertainty about the Washington Prime Group's ability to meet its capital structure obligations as they became due; and (3) as a result of the foregoing, defendants' positive statements about Washington Prime Group's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.

To join the Washington Prime Group class action, go to http://www.rosenlegal.com/cases-register-2102.html or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] or [email protected] for information on the class action.

No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Contact Information:

Laurence Rosen, Esq.

Phillip Kim, Esq.

The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.

275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor

New York, NY 10016

Tel: (212) 686-1060

Toll Free: (866) 767-3653

Fax: (212) 202-3827

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

www.rosenlegal.com

SOURCE Rosen Law Firm, P.A.

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Melvin will report directly to Dinshaw and become a member of the company's senior management team. He will be responsible to create and enhance the company's investment vision to support continued growth and to ensure that the Sammons Financial Group vision is coordinated with all other facets of the company.

Melvin joins Sammons Financial Group from Hartford Investment Management Company (HIMCO) where for the past six years he has served as CIO and, previously, head of portfolio management. In that role, he was responsible for The Hartford's investment strategy.

Prior to The Hartford, Melvin served as CIO of Goldman Sachs Insurance Asset Management, overseeing the firm's global insurance assets and fixed income portfolio. He also served as managing director and head of insurance fixed income, Americas, for Deutsche Bank.

Melvin has a Master of Business Administration in finance from The Stern School of Business, New York University, and an undergraduate degree in business and economics from Lehigh University.

About Sammons Financial Group, Inc.

The companies of Sammons Financial Group, Inc. help families and businesses protect their future to enjoy life's moments today. A subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, Inc., Sammons Financial Group is privately owned with member companies that are among the most enduring and stable in the financial services industry. Our companies include Midland National Life Insurance Company (including Sammons Corporate Markets); North American Company for Life and Health Insurance; Sammons Institutional Group (including Midland Retirement Distributors and Sammons Retirement Solutions) and Beacon Capital Management, Inc. Together, we offer today's most sought-after life insurance, annuity, and retirement planning products. Sammons Financial Group: With You for Every Moment.

SOURCE Sammons Financial Group, Inc.

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Serverfarm developed this position in response to the growing need for colocation spurred by the pandemic. According to a recent report , the European colocation market is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 13% from 2021 to 2028.

Steman brings over 23 years of IT industry experience to this executive role. His strong understanding of the technologies causing digital disruption and how to apply them has driven business growth across several mission-critical infrastructure organizations. Prior to joining Serverfarm, Steman was the CEO of Datacenter.com, a startup with facilities in Amsterdam, Singapore and Dallas, where he successfully built the company from the ground up. At Brocade, he was responsible for IP networking solutions for international cloud service providers and high-tech accounts.

"Jochem has a proven history of scaling and expanding technology-driven business and companies across highly competitive global markets," said Avner Papouchado, CEO of Serverfarm. "His keen ability to drive results coupled with his customer-centric approach will only add to our ability to provide best-in-class colocation while enabling customers to scale and transform digitally across key European markets."

Steman's appointment underscores the company's tremendous growth. Currently, Serverfarm has over 700 locations under management across more than 40 countries and is rapidly growing. Moreover, Serverfarm's parent company recently rebranded from Server Farm Realty, LLC to Serverfarm, LLC. This change directly reflects the company's 24+ years of growth, evolving from a real estate brokerage and management firm to the leading technology and data center services company delivering to global Fortune 500 companies.

"I am excited to join such a well-respected leadership team that has established a clear vision for global growth," said Jochem Steman, Vice President of Colocation Europe. "I believe Serverfarm's unique approach supports digital transformation over the whole spectrum: data center design, colocation and IT management - making Serverfarm the leading DMaaS (Data Center Management as a Service) provider in the world. I am looking forward to working with such a highly recognized group and supporting Serverfarm's strategy to expand its colocation services throughout Europe further."

To learn more about Serverfarm, please visit serverfarmllc.com .

About Serverfarm

Serverfarm is a unique IT and data center developer and operator with a pioneering approach to accelerating digital transformation for service providers and enterprises. With InCommand Services, our integrated platform of real estate, data center and IT management solutions, we maximize our customers' infrastructure efficiencies, providing them with end-to-end visibility and control over their IT and data center environments. As a result, our customers and their teams gain agility, reliability and efficiencies, allowing them to focus on innovation. For more information, visit www.serverfarmllc.com .

Media Contact:

JSA for Serverfarm

Tel: +1 866.695.3629 x19

Email: [email protected]

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Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1003849/ServerFarm_Logo.jpg

Related Links

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SOURCE Serverfarm
HOUSTON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- An investor from Mexico has filed a FINRA arbitration case against J.P. Morgan Securities over the six-figure losses she suffered in Old Mutual (Bermuda). The off-shore entity is owned by Greg Lindberg's Global Bankers, which also owns Northstar Financial Services (Bermuda).

The latter is already the subject of many FINRA arbitration claims against the broker-dealers and their registered representatives that unsuitably recommended products from that off-shore entity to its customers.

In this Old Mutual Bermuda fraud claim, the claimant is seeking up to $500K in damages. Shepherd Smith Edwards and Kantas (SSEK Law Firm at investorlawyers.com) is helping this investor in holding J.P. Morgan Securities accountable and fighting to recover her losses. SSEK Law Firm is also representing other investors in their claims against both Northstar Financial Services (Bermuda) and Old Mutual (Bermuda) in the United States and abroad.

This claimant, who resides in Mexico, had an account with Chase Bank in Texas. The investor's broker, who spoke Spanish, touted a supposedly better way for the customer to invest her money rather than in savings and checking accounts. Trusting this financial advisor, the claimant moved most of her assets to Chase Investments, where she was promised that her money would be managed in a way that would keep her assets safe. Instead, her investment broker recommended an Old Mutual (Bermuda) fixed annuity, an unsuitable investment.

Northstar Financial Services (Bermuda) has filed for bankruptcy and is now in liquidation. Now, the best chance for investors who purchased products from either of these companies to recover their losses is to work with experienced FINRA attorneys.

Old Mutual (Bermuda), like Northstar Financial Services (Bermuda), has paid high commissions and other fees and remunerations to the brokerage firms that sold their products. This appears to have been a motivation for many brokers and their broker-dealers to market and sell these off-shore investments to their customers.

SSEK Law Firm is currently investigating Northstar Financial Services (Bermuda) fraud cases against Truist Investment Services, J.P. Morgan Securities, Hancock Whitney Investment Services and others.

To determine whether you may have grounds for a FINRA arbitration case over your Old Mutual (Bermuda) losses, contact us below:

Northstar Bermuda FAQs (Spanish)

Kirk Smith ([email protected])

US Toll Free: (800) 259-9010

Mexico Toll Free: (800) 283-3403

International via WhatsApp (Text Only): 713-227-2400

SOURCE Shepherd Smith Edwards & Kantas LLP

Related Links

http://www.investorlawyers.com


Most recently, Mr. Koempel spent over three years at multi-billion-dollar retailer Victoria Secret Lingerie as Executive Vice President /Chief Operating Officer from 2017 to 2020. Prior to Victoria Secret Lingerie, Mr. Koempel served as Executive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer at L Brands' Mast Global Division from 2007 to 2017. Before that, he spent over eight years in other various leadership and business roles at L Brands including serving as Vice President of Corporate Finance from 2004 to 2007 and in other financial roles from 1998  2004. Prior to L Brands, he served in various positions at Arthur Andersen & Co. from 1991 to 1998. Koempel has a BBA from the University of Dayton and is a certified public accountant.

Jeff Rubin, CEO of IT'SUGAR commented, "We are very excited to welcome Mike as Chief Operating Officer of IT'SUGAR. I am confident that he will help grow the IT'SUGAR brand and deliver the best possible employee and customer experience. He is a strong leader who I know will motivate the IT'SUGAR team to accomplish our goals and build on the company's success now and well into the future."

Mr. Koempel commented, "I am thrilled to be joining IT'SUGAR at an exciting time when there is a significant opportunity for growth. I look forward to helping take the company to the next level."

IT'SUGAR creates an environment that fosters the greatest feeling of happiness and humor; allowing you to smile and laugh out loud without judgment. At IT'SUGAR, it is not only about taste, but also about attitude, and visitors feel that playfulness as soon as they walk into one of its locations. IT'SUGAR recently announced that it has opened 10 new stores in the past six months including a two-story, 10,000-square-foot store at Faneuil Hall in Boston. The company expects to announce more openings this year including its second candy department store in the United States at the Ala Moana Center in Honolulu, Hawaii.

IT'SUGAR is a member of BBX Capital Corporation's family of companies and a subsidiary of BBX Sweet Holdings, LLC. For more information, please visit www.itsugar.com.

About IT'SUGAR: Founded by candy veteran Jeff Rubin in 2006, this sweet experiential retail environment has become one of the largest specialty candy retailers in North America. The IT'SUGAR network consists of 96 retail locations in U.S. hotspots such as New York, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, Dallas, Houston, and Chicago. Known for their absurdly wonderful sugar innovations that celebrate lighthearted rebellion, IT'SUGAR aspires to a future where everyone has access to the pure joy that comes from indulging in a world with fewer rules and more sugar. For additional information, please visit www.itsugar.com.

About BBX Capital, Inc.: BBX Capital, Inc. is a Florida-based diversified holding company whose principal holdings include BBX Capital Real Estate, BBX Sweet Holdings, and Renin. For additional information, please visit www.BBXCapital.com.

SOURCE ITSUGAR

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NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- AEEE Capital Holding & Advisory Group today announced the completion of a peer review led by Dr. Maher Tadros, Founding Principal of e.construct.US, LLC of its revolutionary new sustainable EASSCM-branded Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC) mix.

According to Dr. Tadros' peer review, AEEE's proprietary technology could have a disruptive impact on building and infrastructure construction as the Biden administration finalizes its trillion-dollar federal infrastructure bill targeting over 10,000 U.S. bridges.

The worldwide production of cement results in 8% of the global carbon emissions on an annual basis. The production and use of AEEE's revolutionary Ultra-High Performance Cement mix could reduce emission while having a transformative and disruptive impact on the global concrete and construction industries, especially on the $2 trillion U.S. infrastructure initiative. The mix is licensed and in use in China and Egypt, and AEEE is in talks with global construction companies for other world rights.

"Cement is one of the most consumed products on the planet. It represents 8% of the world's annual carbon emissions," says MJ Said, Chief Executive Officer of AEEE. "We're gratified that Dr. Tadros' peer review not only confirms the unparalleled performance and long-term value of AEEE's concrete mix, but also that its sustainable attributes could help the industry reduce the carbon footprint of cement by 16% by 2030 under Paris Accord commitments. The structural life expectancy of bridges built with this new material could exceed 300 years with virtually no maintenance, four times the 75-year design life of the bridges currently built."

The sustainability of the AEEE mix is accompanied by a revolutionary increase in compressive strength to 48,500 PSI and an increase of flexural strength to 7,100 PSI, which is two times stronger than the current market-leading concrete mixes;



to 48,500 PSI and an increase of to 7,100 PSI, which is two times stronger than the current market-leading concrete mixes; The mix produces a lifespan of over 300 years for bridges vs. the current ~75 years, according to e.construct;



vs. the current ~75 years, according to e.construct; The mix results (in combination with unique structural design) in potential savings of up to 47% in total project costs with expedited timetables for construction projects of up to 33%; and



with expedited timetables for construction projects of up to 33%; and AEEE's precast concrete bridge girder system utilizing the AEEE mix results in 50% weight reduction and in virtual elimination of steel rebar . The intrusive impact on the environment is lessened by the sharply reduced need for total cement and steel usage and reduced fossil-fuel energy consumption. Offered Proprietary Long Span Bridge Beams/Girders have 20 to 50% longer spans and are more efficient than any other existing concrete beam/girder technology at this time.

AEEE's technology is in commercial use in China and Egypt. The Company is actively engaged in discussions with global construction companies and major financial institutions on potential joint ventures to maximize licensing opportunities in the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Australia.

An overview of the e.construct peer review of AEEE's UHPC technology is available to qualified institutions upon request.

About AEEE Capital Holding & Advisory Group :

AEEE is an International Construction Management, Mixed-Use Development and Holding firm. AEEE's principals have built and/or advised on over 8.3mm square feet of landmark commercial, residential, infrastructure projects globally. In addition to its portfolio of sustainable construction technologies, the company provides a range of services to its real estate development clients, including pro-forma analysis, pre-construction, construction management, fee-development and post-completion operations support.

Media Contact:

MJ Said

[email protected]

917-612-7299

SOURCE AEEE Capital
PHILADELPHIA, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- TeamUp Fitness, a social, lifestyle, and fitness dating app, provides individuals with an outlet to meet new workout partners, make new fitness friends, or possibly find their fitness soulmate. The App's newest feature, "Lock Your Content," is a game-changer for dating fitness apps or dating apps in general.

TeamUp Fitness App

"We wanted to create something completely different and fun," says Tony Trombetta, CEO of TeamUp Fitness. "By adding this 'Lock Your Content' feature to our playbook, members can lock a post such as a photo of them working out or showing off their hard work in the gym."

When a post is locked, it becomes shaded out and the only way to view it is to pay the member to unlock the post. This is an added benefit of using the app and a great way to earn some cash to pay for a fitness date at the gym or hot yoga class, or better yet, a couples massage after the workout.

"This is a really unique feature and the feedback we have received has been tremendous," says Trombetta. "We're learning of many creative and fun ways our members are taking advantage of this feature and seeing how fast their earnings add up."

"When the pandemic began, it was a year like no other, and it challenged many companies to change the way they think and adapt their business model," said Trombetta. "At TeamUp Fitness, we also had to adapt, and our team got to work designing new features. We added the dating dynamic along with the new locked content feature, which created simple ways to break the ice with other members."

What's next in store for TeamUp? They plan to use these new features and expansion of the app to become the go-to resource for fitness connections and dating.

Since launching in 2020, TeamUp Fitness has offered an innovative platform combining social networking, lifestyle sharing, and online dating to bring the fitness community together. In addition to helping people find new friends who share the same activities or wellness goals, the app also is used by fitness trainers and nutritionists to build their business, find clients who are passionate about health and wellness, and increase their client base.

The TeamUp Fitness app is now available for download on the Apple Store orGoogle Play Store.

About TeamUp Fitness

TeamUp Fitness is a social, lifestyle, and fitness dating platform developed to bring the fitness community together. Connect, find, match, and chat with new fitness friends, new workout partners, and fitness professionals. Simply put, TeamUp is "Where All Fitness Enthusiasts Go to be Seen."

To learn more, visitwww.teamupfitness.com.

Media Contact

Alexis Quintal

[email protected]

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TeamUp Fitness App

SOURCE TeamUp Fitness App
TOLEDO, Ohio, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Telesystem, a Block Communications, Inc. company, announced today that it has agreed to acquire the customer and network assets of VoxNet, a Philadelphia-area telecommunications services provider. VoxNet provides unified communications, managed cyber security services, and Internet access to customers in 38 states.

"Telesystem's national strategy includes growing our customer base by offering superior services with a personal touch, and by making strategic acquisitions when we have the opportunity," said John Martin, President and Chief Executive Officer at Telesystem. "We plan to continue to grow into markets across the United States."

Telesystem began as a regional fiber provider in Northwest Ohio and has grown into a nationwide provider of communication, collaboration, infrastructure, and managed cyber security solutions, with a focus on multi-site, multi-product, fully managed solutions for its business customers.

Telesystem EVP and Chief Business Development Officer Bruce Wirt said, "We came out of the pandemic in a strong position. We are on the lookout for opportunities to acquire companies offering complementary products and services. VoxNet fit that profile perfectly."

Telesystem's new customers will enjoy enhanced functionality through the company's world-class communications infrastructure, geographic redundancy via Telesystem's low-latency nationwide network, and access to advanced networking and managed security products carefully designed to suit each customer's unique needs. Telesystem's network includes over 100 points of presence throughout the United States, and network to network connections with the nation's largest telecommunications providers.

"We are proud to provide excellent customer support for the best-in-class technology options across multiple services," said Telesystem EVP and Chief Operations Officer Denton Parson. "With the growing importance of cyber security products, the VoxNet acquisition enhances our ability to be an industry leader in managing these ever more important services."

Block Communications, Inc. is privately held and financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Press inquiries for Telesystem should be directed to Bruce Wirt - EVP and Chief Business Development Officer: [email protected]

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SOURCE Telesystem
WEST ORANGE, N.J., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Highlawn, recently known as The Highlawn Pavilion, announced this week the hiring of new Culinary Director and Executive Chef Sam Hazen, Sous Chef Michael Aiello, and General Manager Salvatore Feli. Following Highlawn Pavilion's acquisition by The Frungillo Family in April 2021, this new team was named to revitalize and celebrate the legacy that the venue holds as West Orange, New Jersey's premier fine dining destination and world-class site for weddings and special events.

As part of the transition of operations to the Frungillo Family from longtime owners the Knowles family, The Highlawn is undergoing renovations as well as a refreshed menu to provide an unparalleled experience for patrons. Under Culinary Director and Executive Chef Sam Hazen, the new menu will blend classic fine dining and welcoming modern refinement, featuring prime, dry-aged steaks, timeless Italian favorites, and local seafood. The food and ambience will celebrate and grow on what has made The Highlawn a premier destination for dining in NJ; the dining room culinary selections and relaxed bistro options available in the bar area and patio are designed to complement the breathtaking Manhattan skyline views and lush greenery that surrounds the venue.

"The perfect dining experience is only as exemplary as the team that builds it and procures the incredible cuisine to compliment the overall guest visit. With Chef Hazen leading the charge in the kitchen with Chef Aiello and Mr. Feli curating a superior dining ambiance, we're thrilled to reopen in the coming months to begin offering an unmatched experience for new and returning Highlawn guests," said Anthony Frungillo, CEO.

Sam Hazen, The Highlawn's new Culinary Director and Executive Chef, has worked in some of the world's most celebrated kitchens throughout his career, imparting his talents to a range of culinary establishments, from Michelin starred restaurants and the world's most upscale fine dining destinations, to trendy burger bars, breweries, brasseries, and even a Baja-style cantina. His career boasts positions at La Cote Basque, the Quilted Giraffe, Terrace on the Sky, Cascabel, and Tavern on the Green in New York City, and Le Gavroche, le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons, and Waterside in England. He is a graduate of The Culinary Institute of America (CIA), where he returned as a chef-instructor later in his career.

In addition to serving as culinary director at BR Guest in NYC, Hazen is also credited with building two influential culinary successes: TAO New York and TAO Las Vegas, which continue to be among the highest grossing restaurants worldwide. While at TAO, he also conceived and opened Rue 57, Avra, and Bolzano's. In 2011, Hazen led the NYC Michelin-starred contemporary American restaurant Veritas, where he reinvented the menu, making it more streamlined, approachable and accessible. Under his direction, the restaurant was awarded a coveted three-star review by The New York Times in just four short months after its reopening.

"I'm excited to begin working with the team to breathe new life into a modern and inviting menu full of new twists on classic favorites, created to be accessible and enjoyable for a wide audience of fine dining patrons," said new Culinary Director and Executive Chef Sam Hazen.

Michael Aiello, The Highlawn's new Sous Chef, joins the team with a decade of experience working as Sous Chef in some of the most illustrious high-volume restaurants in NYC, including Rockefeller Center's Rock Center Cafe and The Sea Grill, where he developed new menus and specials as well as expedited daily lunch and dinner service for up to 800 guests. Aiello also served as Executive Chef at the storied NYC steakhouse Palm Too, Executive Sous Chef at historic NYC theatre district mainstay The Lambs Club under Chef Geoffrey Zakarian, Food Network personality and co-host of The Kitchen. Aiello most recently served as Sous Chef at Ferris in the Made Hotel in Chelsea, NYC.

Salvatore Feli, The Highlawn's new General Manager, is a seasoned professional in fine dining and hospitality operations, having served as Senior Vice President of Operations for Estiatorio Milos, widely recognized as one of the world's finest Mediterranean seafood restaurants, as well as Vice President of Operations at classic French Riviera restaurant Fig & Olive. Feli also has robust experience leading operations at major hospitality groups, including serving as Director of Operations at the iconic TAO Group, Chief Operating Officer at Baltimore-based Atlas Restaurant Group, and Vice President Operations at The ONE Group.

About The Highlawn

Located atop Essex County Eagle Rock Reservation in West Orange, NJ, The Highlawn is known throughout the region for fine dining and its dedication to making each celebration memorable and unique. It has been the trusted venue of many private groups, Fortune 500 companies, non-profit organizations, local community associations, and many more, and is a recipient of OpenTable's Diners' Choice Awards for the Top 100 Scenic View Restaurants.

Media Contact

Renee Rossi

[email protected]

SOURCE The Frungillo Family
"We are proud to help more people throughout the world use the Trust Indicators to find a trusted information partner, which will enable them to make informed decisions about their lives, their communities and their governments," said Sally Lehrman, founder and CEO of the Trust Project. "Our new partner sites are deepening their dedication to the fundamentals of journalism, including reporting with integrity, honesty and inclusion at heart."

The Trust Mark logo indicates that a site has made specific commitments and shows on its pages the 8 Trust Indicators, a global standard for news transparency and integrity. The 8 Trust Indicators detail who and what is behind a given news site and help people easily distinguish impartial journalism from rumor and deception  critical at all times, but especially so today.

The news sites expand the Trust Project's network into new regions of Brazil, the Catalonia region of Spain, Panama, and across wide portions of the United States underserved by news organizations:

The leading news site in the Brazilian state of Espirito Santo, A Gazeta delivers daily local and regional content on a wide range of public interest topics.

Amazonia Real features a network of reporters, many indigenous themselves, who cover environmental issues along the Amazon region and give visibility to indigenous and riverside populations, especially those not covered by mainstream press.

The high-circulation daily El Periodico de Catalunya serves its region and Spain more generally with progressive, secular attention to human, social and economic rights, with a focus on people, the planet and progress.

La Prensa is a respected independent voice in Panama, with no single controlling owner, even undergoing several forced closures by government forces over its 40 years. Its mission is to strengthen democracy in Panama.

Public News Service provides reporting to about 60 million people weekly through more than 4,000 local radio, print, television and online outlets, with a focus on rural communities that receive little news media attention. Through the news service, audiences will now routinely hear the Trust Indicators on air.

The new partners underwent an extensive process to implement the Trust Project's 8 Trust Indicators  evaluating and updating policies, creating new procedures, and adding transparency to existing standards. Developed by The Trust Project in collaboration with both the public and leaders in news organizations worldwide, the 8 Trust Indicators help news media hold themselves accountable and dedicate themselves to the public interest. They increasingly are being used as a news literacy training tool and for external assessment of news site validity.

The 8 Trust Indicators include:

Best Practices (standards and policies) Journalist Expertise Type of Work Labels References for claims Methods of reporting Local expertise and sourcing Diverse Voices and perspectives Actionable Feedback (public engagement)

Democracy Fund is a valued contributor to the Trust Project along with Craig Newmark Philanthropies, Facebook and Google. Trust Project policies and the Trust Indicators are shaped and enforced independently from the project's funding sources.

To learn more about The Trust Project and the 8 Trust Indicators, visit thetrustproject.org.

About the Trust Project:

The Trust Project is a global network of news organizations working to affirm and amplify journalism's commitment to transparency, accuracy and inclusion. The project created the Trust Indicators, which are a collaborative, journalism-generated standard for news transparency that helps both people and algorithms easily assess the authority and integrity of news. The Trust Indicators are based in robust user-centered design research and respond to public needs and wants. The Trust Project, Trust Indicators and Trust Mark logo are exclusive trademarks of The Trust Project. For more, visit thetrustproject.org/faq/ .

For more information about this release, contact:

Jessica Sterling, Program Assistant

[email protected]

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1574409/The_Trust_Projects_expansion.jpg

Related Links

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SOURCE The Trust Project
ATLANTA, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, The Weather Channel television network, the #1 source for weather news and information on TV for nearly 40 years, and Pattrn, The Weather Channel's climate centric and sustainability platform, announce a new relationship with Daikin, the #1 heating and air conditioning manufacturer worldwide. This new, almost year-long relationship places Daikin as the sponsor of The Weather Channel's "Air Quality Index Report", providing viewers with air quality forecasts on the network's morning show, America's Morning Headquarters. The Daikin sponsorship will also be extended to Pattrn through a custom content series titled "Clean Air Community" providing solutions-based explainers about what communities, companies and leaders are doing to have a more positive impact on the environment, both indoors and out.

The new Daikin Air Quality Index Report, running nationally every Monday morning on America's Morning Headquarters, will track and identify current outdoor air quality across the United States. Created with the brand's mission of enhancing the quality of life and contributing to a healthier future in mind, this organic informational content aims to convey the importance of outdoor and indoor air quality for those suffering with allergies or any sickness - ultimately promoting better health and wellness for everyone.

On Pattrn, the Daikin sponsorship will support Pattrn's custom content series "Clean Air Community". This series will highlight small acts and changes viewers and followers can make in their daily lives that can have a big impact on the planet. "Clean Air Community" will highlight Daikin's focus on the ability to control indoor air quality and the importance of clean air as it relates to both individual health and the environment.

"As we enter the summer season and begin planning our outdoor getaways, it's no doubt that air quality and allergies are at the top of everyone's mind," said Barbara Bekkedahl, President Weather Group Ad Sales & Client Partnerships at The Weather Channel. "This is one of the many reasons why we're so thrilled to officially announce this exciting new relationship with Daikin and bring not only the Daikin Air Quality Index Report to our viewers at The Weather Channel but also teach them more ways to keep our planet clean with our new custom series on Pattrn. Whether you're taking a small step outside or looking for ways to make a big impact, Daikin and The Weather Channel have you covered."

Data is at the forefront of this new content, informing viewers on local air quality. That data will also be harnessed by Daikin as integrated alerts sent to their retail associates nationwide to better plan and prep services and promotional efforts.

"From the entire Daikin North America team, we really appreciate this opportunity to work with The Weather Channel in promoting the importance of both outdoor and indoor air quality," said Marc Bellanger, Director of Marketing and Communications at Daikin. "The awareness of how incredibly important Air Quality truly is to our overall health has dramatically increased over the past year. We wanted to play a part in helping educate and inform everyone as to what their actual local Community Air Quality is, and what that means for daily lives." Bellanger continued, "Daikin is committing its technological know-how and resources to this effort to bring this important knowledge to homes across America through our deep relationship with The Weather Channel."

About The Weather Channel

Since its launch over 38 years ago, The Weather Channel television network has become the top-rated and most widely distributed weather network in America. The Weather Channel television network has been the leader in severe weather coverage, providing the most comprehensive analysis of any media outlet and serving as the nation's only 24-hour source of national storm coverage. With trusted meteorologists who analyze, forecast and report the weather, its expertise is unrivaled. In 2018, the Ipsos poll ranked The Weather Channel as the most trusted name in news media and in 2019, The Weather Channel won an Emmy for its coverage of its new Immersive Mixed Reality technology. For ten years in a row, Harris Poll has ranked The Weather Channel as the "TV News Brand of the Year."

About Pattrn

At Pattrn, we see the Earth changing right before our eyes. Our mission, in partnership with The Weather Channel television network, is to explore Earth's challenges, celebrate its progress, and elevate new voices to the conversation. Join us on our journey to inform, engage and revel in the patterns of our amazing planet. https://www.pattrn.com/

About Daikin

Daikin Industries, Ltd. (DIL) is a Fortune 1,000 company with more than 76,000 employees worldwide and is the world's number 1 air conditioning company. Daikin North America LLC (DNA) is a subsidiary of DIL. DNA and its affiliates manufacture heating and cooling systems for residential, commercial and industrial use and are sold via independent HVAC contractors. DNA engineering and manufacturing is located at Daikin Texas Technology Park near Houston, TX. For additional information, visit www.northamerica-daikin.com.

Media Contact:

Sunshine Sachs

[email protected]

SOURCE The Weather Channel
Using the Phenom Pharos G2, materials scientists can resolve the morphology of nanomaterials in materials like metals, minerals and ceramics at 2.0 nanometer (nm) resolution at 20 kilovolts (kV), paving the way to achieve advances in manufacturing, electronics, clean energy and other applications. Researchers can also image soft, beam-sensitive or insulating samples at energy levels as low as 1 kV, obtaining high-resolution views into polymers and multilayer organic films without damaging or obscuring their nanoscale features.

"The Phenom Pharos G2 progresses nanomaterial research by delivering high resolutions and a wide acceleration voltage range, all in a desktop system that can fit within a lab or office," said Rosy Lee, vice president and general manager of materials science at Thermo Fisher. "From more advanced textiles and food packaging to improved solar and wind energy, this easy-to-use instrument supports rapid innovation for a wide range of industries."

The Phenom Pharos G2 is intuitive to operate and highly productive, making it a versatile instrument for high-volume industrial and academic labs. The benefits include:

High-resolution imaging: Users can obtain high-resolution images of 2.0 nm, compared to 2.5 nm with the previous version.

Users can obtain high-resolution images of 2.0 nm, compared to 2.5 nm with the previous version. Expanded energy range compared with the previous model: A wider acceleration voltage range of 1-20 kV provides versatility to image a wide range of samples.

A wider acceleration voltage range of 1-20 kV provides versatility to image a wide range of samples. Fast time-to-image: Images can be obtained in just 30 seconds for high sample throughput.

Images can be obtained in just 30 seconds for high sample throughput. Ease-of-use: An intuitive user interface on a widescreen, 24-inch monitor with presets to simplify use and reduce human error when organizing workflows.

An intuitive user interface on a widescreen, 24-inch monitor with presets to simplify use and reduce human error when organizing workflows. Quick installation : Installation is 40% faster than the previous version, speeding time to results.

: Installation is 40% faster than the previous version, speeding time to results. Enhanced reliability: An integrated power supply and robust parts are designed to ensure the reproducibility of data and reduce interruptions to productivity.

To learn more about the Thermo Scientific Phenom Pharos G2 FEG-SEM, visit https://ter.li/fvrj2h.

About Thermo Fisher Scientific

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. is the world leader in serving science, with annual revenue exceeding $30 billion. Our Mission is to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. Whether our customers are accelerating life sciences research, solving complex analytical challenges, improving patient diagnostics and therapies or increasing productivity in their laboratories, we are here to support them. Our global team of more than 80,000 colleagues delivers an unrivaled combination of innovative technologies, purchasing convenience and pharmaceutical services through our industry-leading brands, including Thermo Scientific, Applied Biosystems, Invitrogen, Fisher Scientific, Unity Lab Services and Patheon. For more information, please visit www.thermofisher.com.

Media Contact Information:

Laura Glass

Thermo Fisher Scientific

+1 (971) 330-8955

[email protected]

SOURCE Thermo Fisher Scientific

Related Links

http://www.thermofisher.com


MONTREAL, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Turquoise Hill Resources Ltd. ("Turquoise Hill" or the "Company") today announced second quarter 2021 production for Oyu Tolgoi LLC ("Oyu Tolgoi") and provided an update on the Oyu Tolgoi mine.

Q2 2021 highlights

In Q2 2021, open pit mining activities were impacted by personnel shortages due to COVID-19 restrictions. This resulted in an increase of lower-grade stockpile material being processed during the quarter.





Copper production of 36,735 tonnes, in-line with Q2 2020 and a decrease of 19% vs Q1 2021; and







Gold production of 113,054 ounces, an increase of 263% vs Q2 2020 and a decrease of 22% vs Q1 2021





Q2 2021 mill throughput was impacted by reduced personnel numbers due to COVID-19 in addition to planned maintenance activities. Consequently, Q2 2021 mill throughput of 9.4 million tonnes was 2% lower than Q2 2020 and 4% lower than Q1 2021.





Access to higher copper and gold grades from Phase 4B is expected to continue through the remainder of the year.

COVID-19 Update

COVID-19 cases increased significantly in Mongolia during Q2 2021, causing a series of lockdowns in the country and South Gobi region which limited the ability of Oyu Tolgoi to maintain normal roster changes for its workers. This resulted in personnel numbers below 25% of planned requirements at certain points during the quarter. COVID-19 restrictions adversely impacted both open pit operations and underground development progress. The additional 2021 development cost impact of the known COVID-19 delays up to June 30, 2021 is estimated to be approximately $100 million. The Company will continue to monitor the costs associated with COVID-19 delays and update the market as appropriate.

As at July 9, 2021, the Oyu Tolgoi workforce is 93% fully vaccinated and appropriate controls continue to be followed at site. Oyu Tolgoi continues to cooperate with the Mongolian authorities to implement and maintain control measures to protect the health and well-being of its workers as well as the local community.

Underground Development

During Q2 2021, underground development progress was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 constraints on site and in Mongolia, including restrictions on movement of international expertise. Despite these constraints, Material Handling System 1 is greater than 90% complete and all development and technical readiness activities pertaining to the initiation of the undercut have been met or are on track to being met, to achieve sustainable production in October 2022. Further, recent easing of quarantine constraints and increasing workforce vaccination rates have supported gradual improvements in site personnel levels.

Shafts 3 and 4 were also impacted by COVID-19 related quarantine requirements and travel restrictions with no significant development progress during the quarter. The impact of further delays to Shaft 3 and 4 and other activities is currently under assessment, and could impact production ramp-up post Panel 0.

Turquoise Hill and Rio Tinto continue to engage with various Mongolian governmental bodies with a view to resolving outstanding non-technical undercut issues. All parties remain committed to moving the project forward and ensuring long-term and mutually beneficial solutions to the issues under discussion. Delayed resolution of these issues and the slowing of discussions as a result of the COVID-19 situation in Mongolia, will delay the Company's expected timing for the initiation of the undercut. Some contractual commitments for future works such as on Material Handling System 2 and the concentrator upgrade, have experienced delays as entering into these commitments is currently pending approval of the Definitive Estimate and required budget uplift by the Oyu Tolgoi Board. Any significant delay to the initiation of the undercut would have a material impact on project schedule, including the timing of sustainable production for Panel 0, as well as the timing and quantum of underground capital expenditure, which would materially adversely impact the timing of expected cash flows from the Oyu Tolgoi underground project thereby increasing the amount of Turquoise Hill's incremental funding requirement. The Company will continue to monitor the situation and assess any impact of a delay to the undercut initiation, and update the market as appropriate.

Force Majeure

Q2 2021 concentrate shipments to customers were impacted by COVID-19 related Mongolia / Chinese border restrictions which resulted in force majeure being declared from 30 March 2021. Shipments to Chinese customers recommenced on April 15, 2021 and Oyu Tolgoi continues to work closely with Mongolian and Chinese authorities to manage the supply chain disruptions. The force majeure will remain in place until there are sufficiently sustained volumes of convoys crossing the border to ensure Oyu Tolgoi's ability to meet its on-going commitments to customers and to return on-site concentrate inventory to target levels.

Oyu Tolgoi Production Data All data represents full production and sales on a 100% basis



















2Q 3Q 4Q 1Q 2Q 1H 1H Full Year

2020 2020 2020 2021 2021 2021 2020 2020

















Open pit material mined ('000 tonnes) 23,218 23,979 23,663 22,588 15,829 38,417 50,052 97,694 Ore treated ('000 tonnes) 9,645 10,072 9,594 9,813 9,401 19,214 20,534 40,200 Average mill head grades:















Copper (%) 0.47 0.45 0.50 0.56 0.47 0.51 0.45 0.46 Gold (g/t) 0.19 0.21 0.41 0.68 0.50 0.59 0.17 0.24 Silver (g/t) 1.22 1.22 1.16 1.29 1.19 1.24 1.18 1.18 Concentrates produced ('000 tonnes) 169.9 168.5 190.2 201.9 173.2 375.1 334.4 693.1 Average concentrate grade (% Cu) 21.5 21.5 21.9 22.5 21.2 21.9 21.4 21.6 Production of metals in concentrates:















Copper ('000 tonnes) 36.5 36.3 41.6 45.4 36.7 82.2 71.7 149.6 Gold ('000 ounces) 31 37 88 146 113 259 57 182 Silver ('000 ounces) 212 219 231 255 235 490 426 876 Concentrate sold ('000 tonnes) 194.3 167.9 181.5 186.3 92.6 278.9 320.2 669.6 Sales of metals in concentrates:















Copper ('000 tonnes) 39.7 34.4 37.9 39.0 19.6 58.6 65.5 137.8 Gold ('000 ounces) 31 34 66 111 73 183 51 150 Silver ('000 ounces) 220 201 194 207 106 313 366 760 Metal recovery (%)















Copper 79.1 78.9 85.9 86.3 79.7 83.4 76.7 79.6 Gold 52.0 53.7 68.8 72.2 69.3 71.0 49.3 58.6 Silver 55.8 54.6 64.3 65.3 62.5 64.0 53.6 56.4

Forward-looking statements and forward-looking information

Certain statements made herein, including statements relating to matters that are not historical facts and statements of the Company's beliefs, intentions and expectations about developments, results and events which will or may occur in the future, constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements and information relate to future events or future performance, reflect current expectations or beliefs regarding future events and are typically identified by words such as "anticipate", "could", "should", "expect", "seek", "may", "intend", "likely", "plan", "estimate", "will", "believe" and similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook. These include, but are not limited to, statements and information regarding: discussions with, and the nature of the Company's relationship and interaction with, the Government of Mongolia on the continued operation and development of Oyu Tolgoi, including with respect to the definitive estimate and the potential termination, amendment or replacement of the Investment Agreement ("IA") or the Oyu Tolgoi Mine Development and Financing Plan ("UDP"); the willingness and ability of the parties to the IA or the UDP to amend or replace the UDP; the implementation and successful execution of the funding plan that is the subject of the Heads of Agreement ("HoA") and the amount of any additional future funding gap to complete the Oyu Tolgoi project as well as the amount and potential sources of additional funding required therefor, all as contemplated by the HoA; the expectations set out in the 2020 Oyu Tolgoi Technical Report ("OTTR20"); the timing and amount of future production and potential production delays; statements in respect of the impacts of any delays on achieving first commercial production the Company's cash flows; expected copper and gold grades; the merits of the class action complaints filed against the Company in October 2020 and January 2021, respectively; the likelihood that the Company will be added as a party to the international tax arbitration brought by Oyu Tolgoi against the Government of Mongolia and the merits of its defence and counterclaim; liquidity, funding sources and funding requirements; the amount of any funding gap to complete the Oyu Tolgoi project; the amount and potential sources of additional funding; the Company's ability to re-profile its existing project debt in line with current cash flow projections; the amount by which a successful re-profiling of the Company's existing debt would reduce the Company's currently projected funding requirements; the Company's ability to raise supplemental senior debt; the timing of studies, announcements and analyses; status of underground development; the mine design for Panel 0 of Hugo North Lift 1 and the related cost and production schedule implications; the re-design studies for Panels 1 and 2 of Hugo North Lift 1 and the possible outcomes, content and timing thereof; expectations regarding the possible recovery of ore in the two structural pillars, to the north and south of Panel 0; the possible progression of a state-owned power plant ("SOPP") and related amendments to the Power Source Framework Agreement ("PSFA") as well as power purchase agreements and extensions to; the timing of construction and commissioning of the potential SOPP; sources of interim power; the continuing impact of COVID-19, including any restrictions imposed by health or governmental authorities relating thereto on the Company's business, operations and financial condition, as well as delays and the development cost impacts of delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic; capital and operating cost estimates; mill and concentrator throughput; the outcome of formal international arbitration proceedings; anticipated business activities, planned expenditures, corporate strategies, and other statements that are not historical facts.

Forward-looking statements and information are made based upon certain assumptions and other important factors that, if untrue, could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements or information. There can be no assurance that such statements or information will prove to be accurate. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies, local and global economic conditions, and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, including the price of copper, gold and silver; projected gold, copper and silver grades; anticipated capital and operating costs; anticipated future production and cash flows; the anticipated location of certain infrastructure in Hugo North Lift 1 and sequence of mining within and across panel boundaries; the availability and timing of required governmental and other approvals for the construction of the SOPP; the ability of the Government of Mongolia to finance and procure the SOPP within the timeframes anticipated in the PSFA, as amended, subject to ongoing discussions relating to a standstill period; the willingness of third parties to extend existing power arrangements; the status and nature of the Company's relationship and interactions and discussions with the Government of Mongolia on the continued operation and development of Oyu Tolgoi and Oyu Tolgoi LLC internal governance (including the outcome of any such interactions or discussions); the willingness and ability of the parties to the IA or the UDP to amend or replace either such agreement; the nature and quantum of the current and projected economic benefits to Mongolia resulting from the continued operation of Oyu Tolgoi; the implementation and successful execution of the funding plan that is the subject of the HoA and the amount of any additional future funding gap to complete the Oyu Tolgoi project as well as the amount and potential sources of additional funding required therefor, all as contemplated by the HoA.

Certain important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements and information include, among others: copper, gold and silver price volatility; discrepancies between actual and estimated production; mineral reserves and resources and metallurgical recoveries; development plans for processing resources; public health crises such as COVID-19; matters relating to proposed exploration or expansion; mining operational and development risks, including geotechnical risks and ground conditions; litigation risks, including the outcome of the class action complaints filed against the Company; the outcome of the international arbitration proceedings; regulatory restrictions (including environmental regulatory restrictions and liability); Oyu Tolgoi LLC or the Government of Mongolia's ability to deliver a domestic power source for the Oyu Tolgoi project within the required contractual time frame; communications with local stakeholders and community relations; activities, actions or assessments, including tax assessments, by governmental authorities; events or circumstances (including public health crises strikes, blockades or similar events outside of the Company's control) that may affect the Company's ability to deliver its products in a timely manner; currency fluctuations; the speculative nature of mineral exploration; the global economic climate; global climate change; dilution; share price volatility; competition; loss of key employees; cyber security incidents; additional funding requirements, including in respect of the development or construction of a long-term domestic power supply for the Oyu Tolgoi project; capital and operating costs, including with respect to the development of additional deposits and processing facilities; defective title to mineral claims or property; and human rights requirements. 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 and information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. All such forward-looking statements and information are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by the Company's management in light of their experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors management believes are reasonable and appropriate in the circumstances. These statements, however, are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements or information.

With respect to specific forward-looking information concerning the continued operation and development of Oyu Tolgoi, the Company has based its assumptions and analyses on certain factors which are inherently uncertain. Uncertainties and assumptions include, among others: the timing and cost of the construction and expansion of mining and processing facilities; the timing and availability of a long-term domestic power source (or the availability of financing for the Company or the Government of Mongolia to construct such a source) for Oyu Tolgoi; the implementation and successful execution of the funding plan that is the subject of the HoA and the amount of any additional future funding gap to complete the Oyu Tolgoi project as well as the amount and potential sources of additional funding required therefor, all as contemplated by the HoA; the status and nature of the Company's relationship, interactions and discussions with the Government of Mongolia on the continued operation and development of Oyu Tolgoi and Oyu Tolgoi LLC internal governance (including the outcome of any such interactions or discussions); the willingness and ability of the parties to the IA and the UDP to amend or replace either such agreement; the nature and quantum of the current and projected economic benefits to Mongolia resulting from the continued operation of Oyu Tolgoi; the potential impact of COVID-19, including any restrictions imposed by health and governmental authorities relating thereto, as well as the development cost impacts of delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic; the impact of changes in, changes in interpretation to or changes in enforcement of, laws, regulations and government practices in Mongolia; the availability and cost of skilled labour and transportation; the obtaining of (and the terms and timing of obtaining) necessary environmental and other government approvals, consents and permits; delays and the costs which would result from delays, including delays caused by COVID-19 restrictions and impacts and related factors, in the development of the underground mine (which could significantly exceed the costs projected in OTTR20); projected copper, gold and silver prices and their market demand; and production estimates and the anticipated yearly production of copper, gold and silver at Oyu Tolgoi.

The cost, timing and complexities of mine construction and development are increased by the remote location of a property such as Oyu Tolgoi. It is common in mining operations and in the development or expansion of existing facilities to experience unexpected problems and delays during development, construction and mine start-up. Additionally, although Oyu Tolgoi has achieved commercial production, there is no assurance that future development activities will result in profitable mining operations.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information or statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions, inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, which contribute to the possibility that the predicted outcomes will not occur. Events or circumstances could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those estimated or projected and expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from these forward-looking statements are included in the "Risk Factors" section in the Company's annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2020 ("AIF"), as supplemented by the "Risks and Uncertainties" section of the Company's management's discussion and analysis for the first quarter ended March 31, 2021 ("MD&A").

Readers are further cautioned that the list of factors enumerated in the "Risk Factors" section of the AIF and in the "Risks and Uncertainties" section of the MD&A that may affect future results is not exhaustive. When relying on the Company's forward-looking statements and information to make decisions with respect to the Company, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Furthermore, the forward-looking statements and information contained herein are made as of the date of this document and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. The forward-looking statements and information contained herein are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

SOURCE TURQUOISE HILL RESOURCES LTD
OMAHA, Neb., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE: UNP) will release second quarter 2021 financial and operating results on Thursday, July 22, 2021, at 8:00 a.m. ET. The company's management team will host a conference call and live webcast at 8:45 a.m. ET.

Parties interested in participating via teleconference may dial 877-407-8293. International callers may dial 201-689-8349. A live webcast of the presentation and materials will be available in the investor relations section of Union Pacific's website at www.up.com/investor. A replay of the audio webcast will be available shortly thereafter.

ABOUT UNION PACIFIC

Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP) delivers the goods families and businesses use every day with safe, reliable and efficient service. Operating in 23 western states, the company connects its customers and communities to the global economy. Trains are the most environmentally responsible way to move freight, helping Union Pacific protect future generations. More information about Union Pacific is available at www.up.com.

www.up.com

www.facebook.com/unionpacific

www.twitter.com/unionpacific

SOURCE Union Pacific Corporation

Related Links

https://www.up.com


KATY, Texas, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- U.S. Silica Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: SLCA) announced today that it will release its second quarter 2021 financial results before the New York Stock Exchange opens on Thursday, July 29, 2021.

Conference Call

This release will be followed by a conference call for investors on Thursday, July 29, 2021 at 8:00 a.m. Central Time to discuss the results. Hosting the call will be Bryan Shinn, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Don Merril, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Investors are invited to listen to a live webcast of the conference call by visiting the "Investor Resources" section of the Company's website at www.ussilica.com . The webcast will be archived for one year. The call can also be accessed live over the telephone by dialing (877) 869-3847 or for international callers, (201) 689-8261. A replay will be available shortly after the call and can be accessed by dialing (877) 660-6853 or for international callers, (201) 612-7415. The conference ID for the replay is 13721444. The replay will be available through August 29, 2021.

About U.S. Silica

U.S. Silica Holdings, Inc. is a global performance materials company and last-mile logistics provider and is a member of the Russell 2000 Index. The Company is a leading producer of commercial silica used in a wide range of industrial applications and in the oil and gas industry. Over its 121-year history, U.S. Silica has developed core competencies in mining, processing, logistics and materials science that enable it to produce and cost-effectively deliver over 400 diversified product types to customers across its multiple end markets. U.S. Silica's wholly owned subsidiaries include EP Minerals and SandBox Logistics. EP Minerals is an industry leader in the production of products derived from diatomaceous earth, perlite, engineered clays, and non-activated clays. SandBox Logistics is a state-of-the-art leader in proppant storage, handling and well-site delivery, dedicated to making proppant logistics cleaner, safer and more efficient. The Company currently operates 24 mines and production facilities and is headquartered in Katy, Texas.

Investor Contact:

Patricia Gil

VP, Investor Relations

(281) 505-6011

[email protected]

SOURCE U.S. Silica Holdings, Inc.

Related Links

www.ussilica.com


COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Vectrus, Inc., (NYSE: VEC), a leading global government services company, announced that it was awarded two new firm-fixed-price task orders valued at $40 million to provide installation and other support services to the U.S. Air Force. The task orders were awarded under the Air Force Contract Augmentation Program V, or AFCAP V, which is a $6.4 billion IDIQ contract vehicle that provides contingency planning, deploying, training, and equipping of forces; emergency and contingency construction; and logistics and commodities and services.

"Our work supporting the Air Force's most critical mission requirements is strengthened with two new wins under the AFCAP V IDIQ contract," said Chuck Prow, president and chief executive officer of Vectrus. "These recent wins build on our AFCAP wins that were announced in the first quarter and demonstrate Vectrus' ability to support our clients contingency and humanitarian support requirements with a full range of facilities and logistical services across the globe. We are pleased in the Air Force's confidence with Vectrus to support their critical missions and look forward to building on our exemplary service and track record of growth with this important client."

About Vectrus

For more than 70 years, Vectrus has provided critical mission support for our customers' toughest operational challenges. As a high-performing organization with exceptional talent, deep domain knowledge, a history of long-term customer relationships, and groundbreaking technical expertise, we deliver innovative, mission-matched solutions for our military and government customers worldwide. Whether it's base operations support, supply chain and logistics, IT mission support, engineering and digital integration, security, or maintenance, repair, and overhaul, our customers count on us for on-target solutions that increase efficiency, reduce costs, improve readiness, and strengthen national security. Vectrus is headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colo., and includes about 9,200 employees spanning 206 locations in 27 countries. In 2020, Vectrus generated sales of $1.4 billion. For more information, visit the company's website at www.vectrus.com or connect with Vectrus on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Contact Information

Mike Smith, CFA

[email protected]

(719) 637-5773

SOURCE Vectrus, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.vectrus.com


"As the nation's leading provider of end-of-life care, we are privileged to serve and support patients who require levels of care beyond routine hospice service," said Deborah Totten, general manager for VITAS.

Located on the campus of AdventHealth Lake Wales hospital at 410 South 11th Street, the IPU accepts hospice-eligible referrals from all neighboring hospitals, assisted living communities, physicians' offices and other providers. VITAS previously cared for patients with advanced illness in the hospital's general inpatient beds since 2016.

"Our partnership with AdventHealth has proven mutually favorable for everyone involved, especially for patients and their families who benefit from seamless care transitions," Totten said.

The new IPU is expected to serve more than 400 patients annually.

Eight private rooms equipped with recliners, televisions and private bathrooms provide home-like comfort in a clinically optimized setting. Family and friends can visit 24/7in accordance with current health guidelines and safety protocols from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and utilize overnight accommodations to remain by their loved one's side. The unit also features a specialized bariatric room.

VITAS continues to deliver in-home hospice care in Highlands, Polk and Hardee counties and has been a Midstate Florida provider since 2014. VITAS clinicians and care teams are available 24/7 to offer care and answer questions.

Clinicians can download the VITAS Healthcare mobile app for 24/7 referrals, locations and interactive hospice eligibility guidelines, or contact VITAS 24/7 at 800.93.VITAS.

Want to join the nation's leading provider of end-of-life care? Discover a fulfilling career and find available openings.

About VITAS Healthcare

Established in 1978, VITAS Healthcare is a pioneer and leader in the American hospice movement. Headquartered in Miami, Florida, VITAS (pronounced VEE-tahs) operates 49 hospice programs in 14 states (California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin) and the District of Columbia. VITAS employs 11,213 professionals who care for patients with advanced illness, primarily in the patients' homes, and also in the company's 28 inpatient hospice units as well as in hospitals, nursing homes and assisted living communities/residential care facilities for the elderly. At the conclusion of the first quarter of 2021, VITAS reported an average daily census of 17,961. Visit www.vitas.com.

Media inquiries contact: [email protected], 877-848-2701

SOURCE VITAS Healthcare

Related Links

https://www.vitas.com


MEXICO CITY, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Controladora Vuela Compania de Aviacion, S.A.B. de C.V. (NYSE: VLRS and BMV: VOLAR) ("Volaris" or "The Company"), the ultra-low-cost airline serving Mexico, the United States of America, and Central America, today announces its financial results for the second quarter 2021[1].

Second Quarter 2021 Highlights

(All metrics are compared to 2Q 2019 unless otherwise noted)

Volaris reported a strong second quarter with double-digit growth in revenue and EBITDAR, driven by a continued recovery of passenger demand in the Companys markets.

Total operating revenue of Ps.11,501 million, a 38% increase. Total revenue per available seat mile ( TRASM ) increased 22% to Ps.165 cents.

of Ps.11,501 million, a 38% increase. Total revenue per available seat mile ( ) increased 22% to Ps.165 cents. Operating expenses of Ps.8,850 million, a 15% increase. Operating expenses per available seat mile ( CASM ) decreased 3% to US$ 6.31 cents , while CASM ex-fuel increased 8% to US$ 4.22 cents .

of Ps.8,850 million, a 15% increase. Operating expenses per available seat mile ( ) decreased 3% to , while increased 8% to . Net income of Ps.1,538 million with a net margin of 13.4%. Earnings per share of Ps.1.32 and earnings per ADS of US$ 0.67 .

of Ps.1,538 million with a net margin of 13.4%. Earnings per share of Ps.1.32 and earnings per ADS of . EBITDAR of Ps.4,696 million, increased 103% with an EBITDAR margin of 40.8%, an expansion of 13.1 percentage points.

of Ps.4,696 million, increased 103% with an of 40.8%, an expansion of 13.1 percentage points. Cash generation of Ps.2,072 million with a cash and cash equivalents position of Ps.10,534 million or US$ 532 million , representing 44% of the last twelve months operating revenue.

generation of Ps.2,072 million with a cash and cash equivalents position of Ps.10,534 million or , representing 44% of the last twelve months operating revenue. Net debt-to-EBITDAR ratio of 4.5 times, back to pre-pandemic levels.

"I am proud of what our team was able to achieve in the second quarter 2021, delivering considerable improvement in almost all operating and financial metrics. We were able to significantly increase capacity while improving TRASM and maintaining our cost control discipline. This efficient growth allowed us to more than double EBITDAR compared to the second quarter of 2019," said Enrique Beltranena, President & Chief Executive Officer. "We have demonstrated yet again that the Volaris business model is sound and can deliver superior results in various market conditions. Our team has taken the opportunities that presented themselves from the CoVID-19 pandemic and come out stronger in the market." Enrique added.

Second Quarter 2021 Financial and Operations Highlights

(All metrics are compared to 2Q 2019 unless otherwise noted)



Second Quarter Consolidated Financial Highlights 2021 2019 % Var. Total Revenue (Ps. million) 11,501 8,329 38% TRASM (Ps. cents) 165 136 22% ASMs (million, scheduled & charter) 7,028 6,154 14% Load Factor (scheduled, RPMs/ASMs) 86.6% 87.3% (0.7) pp Passengers (thousand, scheduled & charter) 6,202 5,654 10% Fleet (end of period) 92 78 14 Operating Expenses (Ps. million) 8,850 7,670 15% CASM (US$ cents) 6.31 6.53 (3%) CASM excl. fuel (US$ cents) 4.22 3.89 8% Operating income (EBIT) (Ps. million) 2,651 659 302% % EBIT Margin 23.0% 7.9% 15.1 pp Net income (Ps. million) 1,538 119 1,188% % Net income margin 13.4% 1.4% 12.0 pp EBITDAR (Ps. million) 4,696 2,310 103% % EBITDAR Margin 40.8% 27.7% 13.1 pp Net debt-to-EBITDAR 4.5x 4.4x 0.1x

Total operating revenue was Ps.11,501 million, a 38% increase, driven by higher capacity, healthy load factors and stronger unit revenue per passenger. Demand in the quarter was exceptionally strong both in the transborder and Mexican domestic market.

Volaris booked 6.2 million passengers in the quarter, an increase of 10%. Domestic and international passengers increased 9% and 11%, respectively; while total capacity, in terms of available seat miles (ASMs), increased 14% to 7.0 billion. Load factor reached 86.6%, back to pre-pandemic levels.

TRASM of Ps.165 cents, increased 22%. Average base fare was Ps.1,086, an increase of 13%. Ancillary revenue per passenger was Ps.785, a 53% increase, due to the continued growth of new and mature products, such as More Flexibility, Combo Business and Combo Health. Ancillary revenue represented 42% of total operating revenue, compared to 35% in the same period of 2019. Finally, total revenue per passenger increased 27% to Ps.1,870.

Operating expenses were Ps.8,850 million, a 15% increase, mainly impacted by maintenance and redelivery expenses. CASM ex-fuel increased 8% to US$ 4.22 cents. The average economic fuel cost per gallon declined 13% to Ps.42.6 per gallon (US$ 2.2), which totaled a CASM decrease of 3% to US$ 6.31 cents.

Comprehensive financing result decreased 2% driven by a foreign exchange gain of Ps.164 million, despite an increase of 23% of financial cost mainly related to the increase in the Company's fleet. The Mexican peso depreciated 5% against the US dollar, from an average exchange rate of Ps.19.12 per US dollar in the second quarter of 2019 to Ps.20.05 per US dollar during the second quarter of 2021. At the end of the second quarter of 2021, the Mexican peso (Ps.19.80 per US dollar) appreciated 4% compared to the exchange rate at the end of the first quarter of 2021 (Ps.20.60 per US dollar).

Income tax expense was Ps.659 million, compared to Ps.78 million in the second quarter of 2019.

Net income was Ps.1,538 million with a net margin of 13.4%. Earnings per share totaled Ps.1.32 and earnings per ADS were US$ 0.67.

EBITDAR was Ps.4,696 million, an increase of 103% due to capacity increase, higher unit revenues, and tight cost controls. EBITDAR margin was 40.8%, an increase of 13.1 percentage points.

Balance Sheet, Liquidity and Capital Allocation

During the second quarter 2021 Volaris generated cash flow of Ps.2,072 million. As of June 30, cash and cash equivalents were Ps.10,534 million or US$ 532 million, representing 44% of the last twelve months operating revenue. The net cash flow generated by operating activities was Ps.5,807 million, while cash outflows in investing and financing activities were Ps.776 million and Ps.2,959 million, respectively. Negative net foreign exchange difference was Ps.255 million.

As of June 30, 2021, the Company had only $18 million dollars outstanding of the working capital relief received on goods and services during 2020. By the end of the second quarter, the Company's suppliers and accrued liabilities were equal to 62 days of operating expenses.

As of the quarter end, net debt was Ps.39,849 million, which included Ps.5,332 million of financial debt, Ps.45,051 million of leasing liabilities, less cash and cash equivalents of Ps.10,534 million. The Company registered a negative adjusted net debt of Ps.5,202 million (excluding lease liability recognized under the IFRS16). The net debt-to-EBITDAR ratio was 4.5 times, in line with 2Q 2019.

Fleet

During the second quarter, the Company incorporated 5 new A320neo aircraft to its fleet. As of June 30, 2021, Volaris' fleet was composed of 92 aircraft (6 A319s, 70 A320s and 16 A321s), with an average age of 5.4 years. Volaris' fleet had an average of 188 seats per aircraft. 80% of its aircraft are sharklet-equipped and 39% are New Engine Option (NEO) models.

The Company plans to incorporate 25 A320neo family aircraft to its fleet in the next 18 months, ending 2021 with 101 aircraft and closing the year 2022 with 113 aircraft. Volaris anticipates the percentage of A320neo family aircraft of its fleet to be 54% by year end 2022, aligned to the Company's sustainability strategy.

Investors are urged to carefully read the Company's periodic reports filed with or provided to the Securities and Exchange Commission, for additional information regarding the Company.

Investor Relations Contact:

Maria Elena Rodriguez / Felix Martinez / [email protected]

Media Contact:

Gabriela Fernandez / [email protected]/ +52 55 3104 5264

Conference call and webcast details

Date: Friday, July 16, 2021 Time: 9:00 am Mexico City (CT) / 10:00 am New York (USA) (ET) United States dial in: +1-412-317-6378 or +1-844-204-8586 Mexico dial in: +52-55-8880-8040 International dial in: +1-412-317-6378 Participant code: Volaris Webcast & video presentation: https://webcastlite.mziq.com/cover.html?webcastId=fb8ba57c-7f6d-42fa-abb0-7c4b8acdd791

About Volaris:

*Controladora Vuela Compania de Aviacion, S.A.B. de C.V. ("Volaris" or the "Company") (NYSE: VLRS and BMV: VOLAR), is an ultra-low-cost carrier, with point-to-point operations, serving Mexico, the United States and Central America. Volaris offers low base fares to build its market, providing quality service and extensive customer choice. Since the beginning of operations in March 2006, Volaris has increased its routes from 5 to more than 180 and its fleet from 4 to 93 aircraft. Volaris offers more than 450 daily flight segments on routes that connect 43 cities in Mexico and 28 cities in the United States and Central America with the youngest fleet in Mexico. Volaris targets passengers who are visiting friends and relatives, cost-conscious business and leisure travelers in Mexico, the United States and Central America. Volaris has received the ESR Award for Social Corporate Responsibility for eleven consecutive years. For more information, please visit: www.volaris.com.

Forward-looking Statements:

Statements in this release contain various forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which represent the Company's expectations, beliefs or projections concerning future events and financial trends affecting the financial condition of our business. When used in this release, the words "expects," "intends," "estimates," "predicts," "plans," "anticipates," "indicates," "believes," "forecast," "guidance," "potential," "outlook," "may," "continue," "will," "should," "seeks," "targets" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Similarly, statements that describe the Company's objectives, plans or goals, or actions the Company may take in the future, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding the Company's intentions and expectations regarding the delivery schedule of aircraft on order, announced new service routes and customer savings programs. Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee or assurance of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which such performance or results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those statements are made and/or management's good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to several factors that could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations, including the competitive environment in the airline industry; the Company's ability to keep costs low; changes in fuel costs; the impact of worldwide economic conditions on customer travel behavior; the Company's ability to generate non-ticket revenue; and government regulation. Additional information concerning these, and other factors is contained in the Company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings. All forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements set forth above. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. We assume no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting forward-looking information, except to the extent required by applicable law. If we update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that we will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.

Controladora Vuela Compania de Aviacion, S.A.B. de C.V. and Subsidiaries

Financial and Operating Indicators

(All metrics are compared to 2019 unless otherwise noted)

Unaudited Three months ended June 30, 2021 Three months

ended June 30,

2021 Three months

ended June 30,

2019 Variance (Mexican pesos, except otherwise indicated) (US Dollars)* (%) Total operating revenue (millions) 581 11,501 8,329 38.1% Total operating expenses (millions) 447 8,850 7,670 15.4% EBIT (millions) 134 2,651 659 302.0% EBIT margin 23.0% 23.0% 7.9% 15.1 pp Depreciation and amortization (millions) 79 1,563 1,335 17.1% Aircraft and engine variable lease expenses (millions) 24 482 316 52.8% Net income (millions) 78 1,538 119 1,187.9% Net income margin 13.4% 13.4% 1.4% 12.0 pp Earnings per share:







Basic (pesos) 0.07 1.32 0.12 1,017.7% Diluted (pesos) 0.07 1.32 0.12 1,017.7% Earnings per ADS:







Basic (pesos) 0.67 13.19 1.18 1,017.7% Diluted (pesos) 0.67 13.19 1.18 1,017.7% Weighted average shares outstanding:







Basic - 1,165,976,677 1,011,876,677 15.2% Diluted - 1,165,976,677 1,011,876,677 15.2% Available seat miles (ASMs) (millions) (1) - 7,028 6,154 14.2% Domestic - 5,012 4,250 17.9% International - 2,016 1,904 5.9% Revenue passenger miles (RPMs) (millions) (1) - 6,082 5,370 13.3% Domestic - 4,424 3,812 16.1% International - 1,658 1,558 6.4% Load factor (2) - 86.6% 87.3% (0.7) pp Domestic - 88.3% 89.7% (1.4) pp International - 82.3% 81.9% 0.4 pp Total operating revenue per ASM (TRASM) (cents) (1) (5) 8.3 165.0 135.5 21.8% Total ancillary revenue per passenger (4) (5) 39.6 785 514 52.6% Total operating revenue per passenger (5) 94.4 1,870 1,475 26.8% Operating expenses per ASM (CASM) (cents) (1) (5) 6.4 126.4 124.9 1.3% Operating expenses per ASM (CASM) (US cents) (1) (3) (5) - 6.3 6.5 (3.2%) CASM ex fuel (cents) (1) (5) 4.3 84.6 74.5 13.6% CASM ex fuel (US cents) (1) (3) (5) - 4.2 3.9 8.3% Booked passengers (thousands) (1) - 6,202 5,654 9.7% Departures (1) - 38,658 34,848 10.9% Block hours (1) - 96,721 87,686 10.3% Fuel gallons consumed (millions) - 69.1 63.4 9.0% Average economic fuel cost per gallon (5) 2.2 42.6 48.9 (12.9%) Aircraft at end of period - 92 78 17.9% Average aircraft utilization (block hours) - 12.9 13.1 (1.1%) Average exchange rate - 20.05 19.12 4.8% End of period exchange rate - 19.80 19.17 3.3% *Peso amounts were converted to US dollars at end of period exchange rate for convenience purposes only. (1) Includes scheduled and chartered. (3) Dollar amounts were converted at average exchange rate of each period. (2) Includes scheduled. (4) Includes "Other passenger revenue" and "Non-passenger revenue". (5) Excludes non-derivatives financial instruments.

Controladora Vuela Compania de Aviacion, S.A.B. de C.V. and Subsidiaries

Financial and Operating Indicators

(All metrics are compared to 2020 unless otherwise noted)

Unaudited Three months ended June 30,

2021 Three months

ended June 30,

2021 Three months

ended June 30,

2020 Variance (Mexican pesos, except otherwise indicated) (US Dollars)* (%) Total operating revenue (millions) 581 11,501 1,526 653.7% Total operating expenses (millions) 447 8,850 3,820 131.7% EBIT (millions) 134 2,651 (2,294) NA EBIT margin 23.0% 23.0% (150.4%) 173.4 pp Depreciation and amortization (millions) 79 1,563 1,451 7.8% Aircraft and engine variable lease expenses (millions) 24 482 426 13.2% Net income (loss) (millions) 78 1,538 (1,523) NA Net income (loss) margin 13.4% 13.4% (99.8%) 113.2 pp Earnings (loss) per share:







Basic (pesos) 0.07 1.32 (1.50) NA Diluted (pesos) 0.07 1.32 (1.50) NA Earnings (loss) per ADS:







Basic (pesos) 0.67 13.19 (15.05) NA Diluted (pesos) 0.67 13.19 (15.05) NA Weighted average shares outstanding:







Basic - 1,165,976,677 1,011,876,677 15.2% Diluted - 1,165,976,677 1,011,876,677 15.2% Available seat miles (ASMs) (millions) (1) - 7,028 1,437 389.0% Domestic - 5,012 1,202 316.8% International - 2,016 235 758.7% Revenue passenger miles (RPMs) (millions) (1) - 6,082 1,138 434.2% Domestic - 4,424 936 372.7% International - 1,658 202 718.5% Load factor (2) - 86.6% 79.2% 7.3 pp Domestic - 88.3% 77.8% 10.4 pp International - 82.3% 86.3% (4.0) pp Total operating revenue per ASM (TRASM) (cents) (1) (5) 8.3 165.0 108.9 51.6% Total ancillary revenue per passenger (4) (5) 39.6 785 644 22.0% Total operating revenue per passenger (5) 94.4 1,870 1,417 32.0% Operating expenses per ASM (CASM) (cents) (1) (5) 6.4 126.4 274.4 (53.9%) Operating expenses per ASM (CASM) (US cents) (1) (3) (5) - 6.3 11.7 (46.3%) CASM ex fuel (cents) (1) (5) 4.3 84.6 234.3 (63.9%) CASM ex fuel (US cents) (1) (3) (5) - 4.2 10.0 (57.9%) Booked passengers (thousands) (1) - 6,202 1,105 461.4% Departures (1) - 38,658 7,785 396.6% Block hours (1) - 96,721 19,472 396.7% Fuel gallons consumed (millions) - 69.1 13.1 425.9% Average economic fuel cost per gallon (5) 2.2 42.6 43.8 (2.8%) Aircraft at end of period - 92 82 12.2% Average aircraft utilization (block hours) - 12.9 7.7 68.0% Average exchange rate - 20.05 23.37 (14.2%) End of period exchange rate - 19.80 22.97 (13.8%) *Peso amounts were converted to US dollars at end of period exchange rate for convenience purposes only. (1) Includes scheduled and chartered. (3) Dollar amounts were converted at average exchange rate of each period. (2) Includes scheduled. (4) Includes "Other passenger revenue" and "Non-passenger revenue". (5) Excludes non-derivatives financial instruments.

Controladora Vuela Compania de Aviacion, S.A.B. de C.V. and Subsidiaries

Financial and Operating Indicators

(All metrics are compared to 2020 unless otherwise noted)

Unaudited Six months ended June 30, 2021 Six months ended

June 30,

2021 Six months ended

June 30,

2020 Variance (Mexican pesos, except otherwise indicated) (US Dollars)* (%) Total operating revenues (millions) 904 17,904 9,350 91.5% Total operating expenses (millions) 808 15,992 11,337 41.1% EBIT (millions) 97 1,912 (1,986) NA EBIT margin 10.7% 10.7% (21.2%) 31.9 pp Depreciation and amortization (millions) 157 3,118 2,893 7.8% Aircraft and engine rent expenses (millions) 48 950 801 18.6% Net income (loss) (millions) 41 805 (3,016) NA Net income (loss) margin 4.5% 4.5% (32.3%) 36.7 pp Earnings (loss) per share:







Basic (pesos) 0.03 0.69 (2.98) NA Diluted (pesos) 0.03 0.69 (2.98) NA Earnings (loss) per ADS:







Basic (pesos) 0.35 6.90 (29.80) NA Diluted (pesos) 0.35 6.90 (29.80) NA Weighted average shares outstanding:







Basic - 1,165,976,677 1,011,876,677 15.2% Diluted - 1,165,976,677 1,011,876,677 15.2% Available seat miles (ASMs) (millions) (1) - 12,407 7,533 64.7% Domestic - 9,050 5,455 65.9% International - 3,357 2,078 61.5% Revenue passenger miles (RPMs) (millions) (1) - 10,284 6,304 63.1% Domestic - 7,680 4,596 67.1% International - 2,604 1,708 52.5% Load factor (2) - 82.9% 83.7% (0.8) pp Domestic - 84.9% 84.2% 0.6 pp International - 77.5% 82.2% (4.7) pp Total operating revenue per ASM (TRASM) (cents) (1)(5) 7.4 146.0 125.0 16.8% Total ancillary revenue per passenger (4)(5) 39.3 778 578 34.6% Total operating revenue per passenger (5) 87.3 1,730 1,475 17.2% Operating expenses per ASM (CASM) (cents) (1)(5) 6.5 129.7 152.8 (15.1%) Operating expenses per ASM (CASM) (US cents) (1)(3)(5) - 6.4 7.1 (9.1%) CASM ex fuel (cents) (1)(5) 4.5 90.0 111.1 (19.0%) CASM ex fuel (US cents) (1)(3)(5) - 4.5 5.1 (13.3%) Booked passengers (thousands) (1) - 10,474 6,382 64.1% Departures (1) - 67,620 41,446 63.2% Block hours (1) - 169,893 106,110 60.1% Fuel gallons consumed (millions) - 119.9 75.0 59.8% Average economic fuel cost per gallon (5) 2.1 41.1 41.8 (1.6%) Aircraft at end of period - 92 82 12.2% Average aircraft utilization (block hours) - 11.8 11.4 3.5% Average exchange rate - 20.18 21.62 (6.7%) End of period exchange rate - 19.80 22.97 (13.8%) *Peso amounts were converted to US dollars at end of period exchange rate for convenience purposes only. (1) Includes scheduled and chartered. (3) Dollar amounts were converted at average exchange rate of each period. (2) Includes scheduled. (4) Includes "Other passenger revenue" and "Non-passenger revenue". (5) Excludes non-derivatives financial instruments.

Controladora Vuela Compania de Aviacion, S.A.B. de C.V. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statement of Operations

(All metrics are compared to 2020 unless otherwise noted)

Unaudited Three months ended

June 30, 2021 Three months ended June 30, 2021 Three months ended June 30, 2020 Variance (In millions of Mexican pesos) (US Dollars) * (%) Operating revenue:







Passenger revenue 563 11,145 1,436 676.1% Fare revenue 340 6,729 854 688.2% Other passenger revenue 223 4,416 582 658.4%









Non-passenger revenue 23 453 129 251.5% Other non-passenger revenue 20 394 102 284.9% Cargo 3 59 27 122.9%









Non-derivatives financial instruments (5) (98) (39) 149.7%









Total operating revenue 581 11,501 1,526 653.7%









Other operating income (3) (50) (180) (72.2%) Fuel expense, net (1) 147 2,907 452 542.8% Depreciation of right of use assets 67 1,318 1,240 6.2% Landing, take-off, and navigation expenses 77 1,528 438 249.1% Sales, marketing, and distribution expenses 24 481 179 168.2% Salaries and benefits 59 1,162 665 74.7% Aircraft and engine variable lease expenses 24 482 426 13.2% Maintenance expenses 25 485 166 193.0% Other operating expenses 15 292 224 30.3% Depreciation and amortization 12 245 210 16.7% Operating expenses 447 8,850 3,820 131.7%









Operating income (loss) 134 2,651 (2,294) NA









Finance income 1 21 27 (22.9%) Finance cost (32) (639) (1,137) (43.9%) Exchange gain, net 8 164 1,229 (86.7%) Comprehensive financing result (23) (454) 119 NA









Income (loss) before income tax 111 2,197 (2,175) NA Income tax (expense) benefit (33) (659) 653 NA Net income (loss) 78 1,538 (1,523) NA









* Peso amounts were converted to US dollars at end of period exchange rate for convenience purposes only. (1) 2Q 2021 and 2Q 2020 figures include a benefit from non-derivatives financial instruments by an amount of Ps.34.7 million and Ps.123.2 million, respectively.

Controladora Vuela Compania de Aviacion, S.A.B. de C.V. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statement of Operations

(All metrics are compared to 2020 unless otherwise noted)

Unaudited Six months ended June 30,

2021 Six months ended June 30, 2021 Six months ended June 30, 2020 Variance (In millions of Mexican pesos) (US Dollars) * (%) Operating revenues:







Passenger revenues 872 17,275 8,984 92.3% Fare revenues 503 9,966 5,727 74.0% Other passenger revenues 369 7,309 3,257 124.4%









Non-passenger revenues 42 839 433 94.0% Other non-passenger revenues 37 725 350 107.3% Cargo 6 115 83 38.0%









Non-derivatives financial instruments (11) (210) (66) 217%









Total operating revenues 904 17,904 9,350 91.5%









Other operating income (5) (109) (301) (63.9%) Depreciation of right of use assets 132 2,620 2,474 5.9% Salaries and benefits 108 2,134 1,605 33.0% Fuel expense, net (1) 244 4,829 2,965 62.8% Landing, take-off, and navigation expenses 138 2,739 1,915 43.0% Aircraft and engine variable lease expenses 48 950 801 18.6% Sales, marketing, and distribution expenses 42 836 542 54.2% Maintenance expenses 46 908 399 127.4% Other operating expenses 30 586 517 13.3% Depreciation and amortization 25 499 419 19.0% Operating expenses 808 15,992 11,337 41.1%









Operating income (loss) 97 1,912 (1,986) NA









Finance income 2 33 76 (57.0%) Finance cost (61) (1,206) (1,794) (32.8%) Exchange gain (loss), net 21 411 (605) NA Comprehensive financing result (38) (762) (2,322) (67.2%)









Income (loss) before income tax 58 1,150 (4,308) NA Income tax (expense) benefit (17) (345) 1,292 NA Net income (loss) 41 805 (3,016) NA









* Peso amounts were converted to US dollars at end of period exchange rate for convenience purposes only. (1) June YTD 2021 and June YTD 2020 figures include a benefit from non-derivatives financial instruments by an amount of Ps.100.5 million and Ps.171.4 million, respectively.

Controladora Vuela Compania de Aviacion, S.A.B. de C.V. and Subsidiaries

Reconciliation of total ancillary revenue per passenger

(All metrics are compared to 2020 unless otherwise noted)

The following table shows quarterly additional detail about the components of total ancillary revenue:

Unaudited Three months

ended June 30,

2021 (US Dollars)* Three months

ended June 30,

2021 Three months

ended June 30,

2020 Variance (%) (In millions of Mexican pesos)









Other passenger revenue 223 4,416 582 658.4% Non-passenger revenue 23 453 129 251.5% Total ancillary revenue 246 4,869 711 584.6%









Booked passengers (thousands) - 6,202 1,105 461.4%









Total ancillary revenue per passenger 40 785 644 22.0%











* Peso amounts were converted to US dollars at end of period exchange rate for convenience purposes only.

Controladora Vuela Compania de Aviacion, S.A.B. de C.V. and Subsidiaries

Reconciliation of total ancillary revenue per passenger

(All metrics are compared to 2020 unless otherwise noted)

The following table shows the first one half of the year additional detail about the components of total ancillary revenue:

Unaudited Six months

ended June 30,

2021 (US Dollars)* Six months ended

June 30,

2021 Six months ended

June 30,

2020 Variance (%) (In millions of Mexican pesos)









Other passenger revenues 369 7,309 3,257 124.4% Non-passenger revenues 42 839 433 94.0% Total ancillary revenues 411 8,148 3,689 120.9%









Booked passengers (thousands) - 10,474 6,382 64.1%









Total ancillary revenue per passenger 39 778 578 34.6%











* Peso amounts were converted to US dollars at end of period exchange rate for convenience purposes only.

Controladora Vuela Compania de Aviacion, S.A.B. de C.V. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

(All metrics are compared to 2020 unless otherwise noted)

(In millions of Mexican pesos) June 30, 2021 Unaudited June 30, 2021

Unaudited December 31, 2020

Audited

(US Dollars)*

Assets







Cash and cash equivalents 532 10,534 10,103

Accounts receivable, net 144 2,861 2,027

Inventories 13 264 279

Prepaid expenses and other current assets 61 1,212 850

Financial instruments - - -

Guarantee deposits 79 1,567 1,142

Total current assets 830 16,438 14,402

Rotable spare parts, furniture and equipment, net 400 7,921 7,281

Right of use assets 1,857 36,782 34,316

Intangible assets, net 9 169 192

Financial instruments - 2 -

Deferred income taxes 140 2,775 3,129

Guarantee deposits 470 9,308 8,425

Other assets 4 80 119

Other long- term assets 16 319 325

Total non-current assets 2,896 57,357 53,787

Total assets 3,727 73,795 68,189

Liabilities







Unearned transportation revenue 413 8,180 5,851

Accounts payable 70 1,382 2,365

Accrued liabilities 175 3,462 2,356

Lease liabilities 266 5,276 6,484

Other taxes and fees payable 160 3,161 2,236

Income taxes payable - 2 4

Financial instruments - - 10

Financial debt 168 3,322 1,559

Other liabilities 9 183 101

Total short-term liabilities 1,261 24,967 20,966

Financial debt 102 2,010 3,796

Accrued liabilities 14 269 67

Lease liabilities 2,009 39,775 37,646

Other liabilities 148 2,921 2,668

Employee benefits 3 56 51

Deferred income taxes 10 199 200

Total long-term liabilities 2,284 45,231 44,427

Total liabilities 3,545 70,198 65,393

Equity







Capital stock 173 3,426 3,426

Treasury shares (10) (204) (224)

Contributions for future capital increases - - -

Legal reserve 15 291 291

Additional paid-in capital 237 4,691 4,720

Retained losses (154) (3,050) (3,855)

Accumulated other comprehensive losses (1) (79) (1,558) (1,562)

Total equity 182 3,597 2,796

Total liabilities and equity 3,727 73,795 68,189











Total shares outstanding fully diluted

1,165,976,677 1,165,976,677

* Peso amounts were converted to US dollars at end of period exchange rate for convenience purposes only. (1) As of June 30, 2021, and December 31, 2020, the figures include a negative foreign exchange effect of Ps.1,594 million and negative foreign exchange effect of Ps.1,577 million, respectively, related to non-derivative financial instruments.







Controladora Vuela Compania de Aviacion, S.A.B. de C.V. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows  Cash Flow Data Summary

(All metrics are compared to 2020 unless otherwise noted)

Unaudited Three months ended June 30, 2021 Three months ended June 30, 2021 Three months

ended June 30, 2020 (In millions of Mexican pesos) (US Dollars)*







Net cash flow generated by operating activities 293 5,807 584 Net cash flow (used in) provided by investing activities (39) (776) 71 Net cash flow used in financing activities** (149) (2,959) (1,179) Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 105 2,072 (524) Net foreign exchange differences (13) (255) (120) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 440 8,718 10,658 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period 532 10,534 10,013







* Peso amounts were converted to US dollars at end of period exchange rate for convenience purposes only.

**Includes aircraft rental payments of Ps.2,901 million and Ps.806 million for the three months ended period June 30, 2021, and 2020, respectively.

Controladora Vuela Compania de Aviacion, S.A.B. de C.V. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows  Cash Flow Data Summary

(All metrics are compared to 2020 unless otherwise noted)

Unaudited Six months ended June 30, 2021 Six months ended

June 30,

2021 Six months

ended

June 30,

2020 (In millions of Mexican pesos) (US Dollars)*







Net cash flow generated by operating activities 331 6,559 3,403 Net cash flow (used in) provided by investing activities (49) (966) 34 Net cash flow used in financing activities** (260) (5,141) (3,048) Increase in cash and cash equivalents 23 452 389 Net foreign exchange differences (1) (21) 1,645 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 510 10,103 7,980 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period 532 10,534 10,013







* Peso amounts were converted to US dollars at end of period exchange rate for convenience purposes only. **Includes aircraft rental payments of Ps.5,037 million and Ps.2,626 million for the six months ended period June 30, 2021, and 2020, respectively.

[1] The financial information, unless otherwise indicated, is presented in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

SOURCE Volaris

Related Links

http://www.volaris.com


CSE: VYGR

OTCQB: VYGVF

Borse Frankfurt: UCD2

- Fiscal 4Q Revenues Expected to be Between $103 and $107 Million -

- Funded Accounts Grow 146% From the Previous Quarter to Over 665,000 -

- Verified Users Grow 75% From the Previous Quarter to Over 1.75 Million -

NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Voyager Digital Ltd. ("Voyager" or the "Company") (CSE: VYGR) (OTCQB: VYGVF) (FRA: UCD2), is pleased to provide stakeholders with a business update for the Fiscal 4Q ended June 30, 2021.

The Company has the following key metrics as of June 30, 2021:

Preliminary Fiscal 4Q Revenue expected to be between $103 and $107 million

and Total Funded Accounts exceed 665,000, up 146% from the previous quarter end

Total Verified Users on the platform more than 1.75 million, up 75% from the previous quarter end

Basis points per-trade continue to exceed 100 basis points for the Fiscal 4Q

All figures are preliminary and unaudited and subject to final adjustment. All amounts are in U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated.

"Our June quarter reflects continued growth of our platform, with revenues up more than 65% from the March Quarter. Although we have seen a significant decrease in crypto market volume since mid-June we continue to see significant net new funded account growth, net asset inflows, and consistent basis points on spread revenues on our platform continue through today." said Steve Ehrlich, CEO and Co-founder. "We continue to advance our marketing efforts and move forward on a host of important initiatives, including the launch of our Voyager Loyalty Program (VLP) program set to kick-off in September and Voyager's payment processing capabilities."

Additionally, pursuant to its previously announced Normal Course Issuer Bid Voyager repurchased 247,500 shares in the open market under the Company's share buyback program and have since cancelled these shares and made the appropriate filings with the relevant regulatory bodies in Canada.

About Voyager Digital Ltd.

Voyager Digital Ltd. is a publicly traded holding company whose subsidiaries operate a crypto-asset platform that provides retail and institutional investors with a turnkey solution to trade crypto assets. The Voyager Platform provides its customers with competitive price execution through its smart order router and as well as a custody solution on a wide choice of popular crypto-assets. Voyager was founded by established Wall Street and Silicon Valley entrepreneurs who teamed to bring a better, more transparent, and cost-efficient alternative for trading crypto-assets to the marketplace. Please visit us at https://www.investvoyager.com for more information.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this press release.

Forward Looking Statements

Certain information in this press release, including, but not limited to, statements regarding future growth and performance of the business, momentum in the businesses, future adoption of digital assets, and the Company's anticipated results may constitute forward looking information (collectively, forward-looking statements), which can be identified by the use of terms such as "may," "will," "should," "expect," "anticipate," "project," "estimate," "intend," "continue" or "believe" (or the negatives) or other similar variations. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Voyager's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any of its future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time. It is not possible for our management to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements we may make. In light of these risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, the future events and trends discussed in this press release may not occur and actual results could differ materially and adversely from those anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are subject to the risk that the global economy, industry, or the Company's businesses and investments do not perform as anticipated, that revenue or expenses estimates may not be met or may be materially less or more than those anticipated, that trading momentum does not continue or the demand for trading solutions declines, customer acquisition does not increase as planned, product and international expansion do not occur as planned, risks of compliance with laws and regulations that currently apply or become applicable to the business and those other risks contained in the Company's public filings, including in its Management Discussion and Analysis and its Annual Information Form (AIF). Factors that could cause actual results of the Company and its businesses to differ materially from those described in such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, a decline in the digital asset market or general economic conditions; changes in laws or approaches to regulation, the failure or delay in the adoption of digital assets and the blockchain ecosystem by institutions; changes in the volatility of crypto currency, changes in demand for Bitcoin and Ethereum, changes in the status or classification of cryptocurrency assets, cybersecurity breaches, a delay or failure in developing infrastructure for the trading businesses or achieving mandates and gaining traction; failure to grow assets under management, an adverse development with respect to an issuer or party to the transaction or failure to obtain a required regulatory approval. In connection with the forward-looking statements contained in this press release, the Company has made assumptions that no significant events occur outside of the Company's normal course of business and that current trends in respect of digital assets continue. Readers are cautioned that Assets Under Management and trading volumes fluctuate and may increase and decrease from time to time and that such fluctuations are beyond the Company's control. Forward-looking statements, past and present performance and trends are not guarantees of future performance, accordingly, you should not put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, current or past performance, or current or past trends. Information identifying assumptions, risks, and uncertainties relating to the Company are contained in its filings with the Canadian securities regulators available at www.sedar.com . The forward-looking statements in this press release are applicable only as of the date of this release or as of the date specified in the relevant forward-looking statement and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after that date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. The Company assumes no obligation to provide operational updates, except as required by law. If the Company does update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that it will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements, unless required by law. Readers are cautioned that past performance is not indicative of future performance and current trends in the business and demand for digital assets may not continue and readers should not put undue reliance on past performance and current trends. All figures are in U.S. dollars unless otherwise noted.

SOURCE Voyager Digital (Canada) Ltd.
MINNEAPOLIS, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Wealth Enhancement Group, an independent wealth management firm, today announced that it has acquired Fitzgerald Wealth Management, an independent financial advisory practice with four advisors that collectively oversee $513 million in total client assets. Upon acquiring the Houston-based firm, Wealth Enhancement Group's total client assets have reached $37.7 billion.*

The transaction is Wealth Enhancement Group's eighth acquisition in 2021. Since June 1, the firm has added 35 advisors and more than $5.9 billion in assets to its platform via acquisitions.

Founded in 2011, Fitzgerald Wealth Management bolsters Wealth Enhancement Group's presence in the densely populated Houston market. Upon the transaction's close on June 30, Fitzgerald started doing business under the Wealth Enhancement Group brand, and its founder Michael Fitzgerald was named Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor.

Mr. Fitzgerald and his colleagues in the group, Richard Heard, Rachel Garza and Derek Platt, specialize in comprehensive wealth management for high-net worth retirees and pre-retirees. Their clients include senior management and executives of prominent Houston-area public companies, small business owners and legal, consulting and medical professionals. The majority of their clients reside in the Houston, Dallas, Austin and San Antonio markets.

Jeff Dekko, Chief Executive Officer of Wealth Enhancement Group, said, "The Houston region is one of the fastest-growing areas in the country in terms of population, economic stature and wealth. The acquisition of Fitzgerald Wealth Management helps position Wealth Enhancement Group to serve a broader cross-section of the area's growing number of high-net worth investors. Michael and his team's financial planning-driven client service model aligns closely with the approach we have long practiced, and we are thrilled to bring them to our platform while enabling ongoing seamless service for their clients. Moving forward, we are excited to put the resources, technology and scale of Wealth Enhancement Group to work to help this group further accelerate its growth trajectory."

Jim Cahn, Wealth Enhancement Group's Chief Investments & Business Development Officer, said, "The financial advisors and staff on Michael's team are an experienced, seasoned group, well versed in how to best serve the needs of sophisticated investors. We are thrilled to have them on the team and we look forward to our shared success."

As part of the transaction, the Fitzgerald group has also affiliated with LPL Financial for the brokerage-based portion of its book of business.

Mr. Fitzgerald said, "Joining the stellar team at Wealth Enhancement Group marks a new chapter in the history of our firm, and we look forward to continuing our track record of providing sound financial advice and excellent client service with the support of Jeff Dekko, Jim Cahn and the entire organization. With the additional resources available to our clients as part of Wealth Enhancement Group, we look forward to continuing our mission to provide our clients an unparalleled experience that empowers them to work toward their financial goals and live the life they want to live. Wealth Enhancement Group will be a superb strategic partner in this effort, and we look forward to years of fruitful collaboration."

Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

About Wealth Enhancement Group

Wealth Enhancement Group is a Greater Minneapolis-based independent wealth management firm offering comprehensive and customized financial planning and investment management services. Founded in 1997, Wealth Enhancement Group serves clients nationwide. Wealth Enhancement Group specializes in providing retail clients with the team-based knowledge and resources they need to simplify their financial life. For more information, please visit www.wealthenhancement.com.

Advisory services offered through Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services, LLC (WEAS), a registered investment advisor. Certain, but not all, investment advisor representatives (IARs) of WEAS are also registered representatives of and offer securities through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Wealth Enhancement Group and Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services are separate entities from LPL Financial. Wealth Enhancement Group is a registered trademark of Wealth Enhancement Group, LLC.

Wealth Enhancement Group and its Registered Investment Advisor, Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services, had $31.8 billion in client brokerage and advisory assets as of 5/31/2021. Fitzgerald Wealth Management had $513 million in client assets as of 3/17/2021. With the closing of the previously announced transactions closing as by 7/1/2021, along with the acquisition of Fitzgerald Wealth Management, Wealth Enhancement Group has $37.7 billion in client brokerage, advisory and trust assets as of 7/1/2021.

Media Contacts

Joseph Kuo / Chris Clemens

Haven Tower Group

424 317 4851 or 424 317 4854

[email protected] or [email protected]

SOURCE Wealth Enhancement Group

Related Links

https://www.wealthenhancement.com


MyHealth Partners Inc. (" MyHealth ") is a leading primary care, specialty care, telehealth services and accredited diagnostic health services provider that owns and operates 48 locations across Ontario .

") is a leading primary care, specialty care, telehealth services and accredited diagnostic health services provider that owns and operates 48 locations across . After this foundational acquisition, WELL is now the largest owner-operator of outpatient medical clinics in Canada with 74 combined clinics. Approximately 75% of MyHealth's medical consultations are currently conducted via telehealth, which when combined with WELL's multiple telehealth businesses now make WELL the leading multi-disciplinary telehealth service provider in Canada .

with 74 combined clinics. Approximately 75% of MyHealth's medical consultations are currently conducted via telehealth, which when combined with WELL's multiple telehealth businesses now make WELL the leading multi-disciplinary telehealth service provider in . WELL's combined proforma revenue run-rate as of closing is estimated to be approaching C$400M with EBITDA 1 run-rate of almost C$100M . MyHealth is expected to generate proforma revenues of approximately C$100M 2 with EBITDA 1 margins of approximately 20% in 2021.

with EBITDA run-rate of almost . MyHealth is expected to generate proforma revenues of approximately with EBITDA margins of approximately 20% in 2021. The purchase price paid upon closing of C$206M was fully funded via a combination of WELL shares, vendor takeback financing, and new senior facilities. The deal reflects accretion of 20% and 28% on an EBITDA 1 per share and revenue per share basis respectively with less than 5% dilution.

was fully funded via a combination of WELL shares, vendor takeback financing, and new senior facilities. The deal reflects accretion of 20% and 28% on an EBITDA per share and revenue per share basis respectively with less than 5% dilution. The transaction was financed in part by senior facilities providing up to C$200M of credit to MyHealth provided by a syndicate of banks led by the Royal Bank of Canada and including the Bank of Montreal , HSBC Bank Canada, The Toronto-Dominion Bank, ICICI Bank Canada and Laurentian Bank of Canada .

VANCOUVER, BC, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - WELL Health Technologies Corp. (TSX: WELL) ("WELL" or the "Company"), a company focused on consolidating and modernizing clinical and digital assets within the healthcare sector, is pleased to announce it has completed the previously announced acquisition of all of the issued and outstanding shares of MyHealth (the "Transaction") for a total purchase price of C$206M plus a future conditional earn-out of up to $60M. Founded in 2013, MyHealth has over 760 physicians and other healthcare professionals providing primary care, specialty care, telehealth services and accredited diagnostic health services from 48 locations across Ontario.

Hamed Shahbazi, Chairman and CEO of WELL commented, "We extend a warm welcome from the WELL family to the talented MyHealth team. The closing of this acquisition offers not only financial value for our shareholders, but also supports our value system at WELL as MyHealth has been built upon important pillars that we hold in high regard including: a progressive and award winning workplace culture; a forward-thinking network of health practitioners who embrace technology; and the vision of empowering patients through the provision of digital tools and technologies. We are very excited for the extended reach and depth that MyHealth offers WELL."

MyHealth offers primary care consultations both in-person and through telehealth, as well as diagnostic services related to cardiology, women's health, bone/muscle health and cancer diagnostics. For the twelve months ended March 31, 2021, MyHealth recorded over 500,000 patient visits including primary, specialty, telehealth, and diagnostic visits. MyHealth has been growing rapidly over the past five years, with a 40% CAGR3 in both revenue and EBITDA1. This growth includes 15% organic growth rate over that period plus a disciplined and successful acquisition program with 25 completed deals over the past eight years. MyHealth will continue to pursue its accretive M&A program and has an active pipeline including over 125 potential targets.

With the acquisition of MyHealth, WELL becomes the largest owner-operator of outpatient medical clinics in Canada providing primary, allied, specialized and diagnostic healthcare services. Furthermore, approximately 75% of MyHealth's medical consultations are conducted via telehealth, which when combined with WELL's multiple telehealth businesses, make WELL the leading multi-disciplinary telehealth service provider in Canada. MyHealth will operate as a wholly-owned WELL subsidiary led by Suresh Madan, who will continue to serve as MyHealth's CEO.

"We are delighted to be part of the entire WELL omni-channel patient services experience," said Suresh Madan, President and CEO of MyHealth. "Everything that WELL encompasses is aligned with our belief system, it's a natural fit, and we feel we are positioned perfectly together for playing a leading role in advancing patient care in Canada."

Transaction Details (all figures are in Canadian Dollars):

The Transaction was completed pursuant to a share purchase agreement dated June 4, 2021 (the "Agreement"). The purchase price for the Transaction was $206M plus a future conditional earn-out of up to $60M . Of such amount due on closing, $82M was paid in cash on the closing date. An additional $94.3M was satisfied at a deemed price per share of $9.80, which was subject to an adjustment that was inversely proportional to the difference in the 5 day VWAP of WELL's shares immediately prior to the closing date from the 5 day VWAP immediately prior to the signing of the Agreement (the "Adjustment"). This Adjustment resulted WELL issuing 8,342.947 common shares on the closing date which are subject to certain volume based voluntary resale restrictions as provided in the Agreement. The purchase price also consisted of the issuance of a convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $30M issued by WELL maturing in three $10M tranches on the third, sixth and ninth months following the closing date of the Transaction and repayable in cash, WELL common shares, or a combination of both at WELL's discretion with a conversion price equal to the VWAP for the five days prior to the conversion date. The earn-out is a four-year performance-based earn-out of up to $60M, payable in cash, WELL common shares or a combination of both at WELL's discretion with shares issuable at the VWAP for the five days prior to the applicable payment date. The performance-based earn-out is earnable based upon MyHealth maintaining and enhancing its profitability over the performance period. If the earn-out is fully achieved, it will result in a purchase multiple that is materially lower than the purchase multiple at the time of closing.

The Transaction was financed in part by senior credit facilities for an amount of up to $200M, with an initial committed amount of $140M and an accordion feature which enables MyHealth to borrow an additional $60M subject to satisfaction of usual and customary provisions. The facilities are provided by a syndicate of banks led by the Royal Bank of Canada and inclusive of the Bank of Montreal, HSBC Bank Canada, The Toronto-Dominion Bank, ICICI Bank Canada and Laurentian Bank of Canada (collectively, the "Lenders") and documented by way of a credit agreement dated July 15, 2021 (the "Credit Agreement") between, among others, MyHealth, as borrower, Royal Bank of Canada, as administrative agent, and the Lenders. The Credit Agreement matures on July 15, 2025 and interest on the facilities is accrued based on prime rate or CDOR for Canadian dollar loans and base rate or LIBOR for US dollar loans plus a margin calculated on the basis of the financial performance of MyHealth. The security for the credit facilities is comprised entirely of the assets and share pledges of MyHealth and its subsidiaries. The terms of the Credit Agreement are customary for a transaction of this nature.

Advisors and Counsel

Eight Capital acted as lead financial advisor to WELL, and Stifel GMP provided advisory services to WELL on the Transaction.

Clark Wilson LLP, Torys LLP, and Dentons LLP acted as legal counsel to WELL on the Transaction. Blakes LLP acted as legal counsel on the credit facility financing. Deloitte Corporate Finance Inc. acted as financial advisor and Gowling WLG (Canada) acted as legal counsel to MyHealth.

Footnotes:

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") and EBITDA margin (EBITDA divided by revenue) are each Non-GAAP measures. EBITDA and EBITDA margin should not be construed as alternatives to net income/loss determined in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"). EBITDA does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. The Company believes that EBITDA is a meaningful financial metric as it measures cash generated from operations which the Company can use to fund working capital requirements, service future interest and principal debt repayments and fund future growth initiatives. For EBITDA reconciliation to Net income, please refer to the Company's most recent Management Discussion and Analysis on Sedar.com. EBITDA margin is EBITDA as a percentage of total revenue. MyHealth proforma revenues means the sum total of all MyHealth subsidiaries and acquisitions for the 12 month period ending Dec 2021 . CAGR means compound annual growth rate and is a Non-GAAP measure. CAGR should not be construed as an alternative to net income/loss determined in accordance with IFRS. CAGR does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

WELL HEALTH TECHNOLOGIES CORP.

Per: "Hamed Shahbazi"

Hamed Shahbazi

Chairman, CEO, and Director

About WELL Health Technologies Corp.

WELL is an omni-channel digital health company whose overarching objective is to empower doctors to provide the best and most advanced care possible while leveraging the latest trends in digital health. As such, WELL owns and operates primary and executive healthcare clinics in both Canada and the US, operates a global digital Electronic Medical Records (EMR) business serving thousands of healthcare clinics and health systems of all sizes and operates a multi-national portfolio of telehealth services which includes one of the largest telehealth service providers in Canada. WELL is also a provider of digital health, billing and cybersecurity related technology solutions. WELL's wholly-owned subsidiary CRH Medical provides various products and services that have supported thousands of Gastroenterology physicians in the US. WELL is an acquisitive company that follows a disciplined and accretive capital allocation strategy. WELL is publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "WELL". To access the Company's Canadian telehealth service, visit: tiahealth.com, and for corporate information, visit: www.well.company.

About MyHealth

MyHealth is one of Canada's largest and fastest growing primary and specialty healthcare providers with a network of diagnostic centers across Ontario. MyHealth's experienced team of physicians and healthcare professionals provide exceptional cardiology, x-ray, ultrasound, mammography, bone density related diagnosis. MyHealth operates a "bricks and clicks" model which leverages its telehealth platform to drive referral opportunities to its brick-and-mortar diagnostic business. MyHealth also operates the brands MyDoctorNow, CardiologyNow and RadiologyNow. MyHealth recognizes employees as its most valuable asset and focuses its talent development strategy around employee engagement, empowerment and continuous training. As such MyHealth is the recipient of numerous awards including Accreditation with Commendation from Accreditation Canada, Great Place to Work (since 2017), the Globe and Mail's Top Growing Company (2019 and 2020), Waterstone Canada's Most Admired Corporate Culture 2020, Maclean's Magazine's list of Canada's Best Managed Companies 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and the 2021 Consumer Choice Award for best Diagnostic Imaging Clinics in the Greater Toronto Area.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this news release related to the Company are forward-looking statements and are prospective in nature including the statements regarding the Company's projected combined proforma revenue and EBITDA run-rates; MyHealth's projected proforma revenues and EBITDA margins; the expectation that the Transaction reflects accretion of 20% and 28% on an EBITDA per share and revenue per share basis with less than 5 percent dilution; the expectation that MyHealth will continue to pursue its M&A program with over 125 potential targets; the expectation that MyHealth will continue to be led by Mr. Madan on a post-closing basis; and the Company's expansion plans, expected benefits and synergies from the Transaction. Forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts, but rather on current expectations and projections about future events and are therefore subject to risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "may", "should", "could", "would", "intend", "estimate", "plan", "anticipate", "expect", "believe" or the negative thereof or similar variations. There are numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and the Company's plans and objectives to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements, including: business disruption risks relating to COVID-19; regulatory risks, including those related to healthcare, privacy and data security; integration risks relating to the acquired business on a post-closing basis; any inability of the Company to realize the expected benefits and synergies of the Transactions; and other risks outlined in the Company's publicly filed documents available on SEDAR. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. These and all subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements are based on estimates and opinions of management on the dates they are made and are expressly qualified in their entirety by this notice. Except as required by law, the Company does not intend to update these forward-looking statements.

This news release contains future-oriented financial information and financial outlook information (collectively, "FOFI") about WELL's expected increase in revenue, cash flow, EBITDA1, EBITDA1 margin, EBITDA1 per share and revenue per share on a post-closing basis, all of which are subject to the same assumptions, risk factors, limitations, and qualifications as set out in the above paragraphs. The actual financial results of WELL on a post-closing basis may vary from the amounts set out herein and such variation may be material. WELL and its management believe that the FOFI has been prepared on a reasonable basis, reflecting management's best estimates and judgments. However, because this information is subjective and subject to numerous risks, it should not be relied on as necessarily indicative of future results. Except as required by applicable securities laws, WELL undertakes no obligation to update such FOFI. FOFI contained in this news release was made as of the date hereof and was provided for the purpose of providing further information about WELL's anticipated future business operations on a post-closing basis. Readers are cautioned that the FOFI contained in this news release should not be used for purposes other than for which it is disclosed herein.

SOURCE WELL Health Technologies Corp.

Related Links

well.company


NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Dean Sonderegger, head of Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S. has won the Executive Achievement of the Year award for the 2021 Golden Bridge Business and Innovation Awards.

"I am honored to be recognized for the Executive Achievement of the Year," said Sonderegger. "Our exceptional team at Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S. has continued to bring impactful, innovative solutions and deep domain content to our customers at a time when they have needed them most, and this award is a testament to what we have accomplished together."

Dean Sonderegger earns the Executive Achievement of the Year Award for 2021

In his role, Dean is responsible for accelerating the vision and strategy for Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S., with a particular focus on rapid development of advanced digital products and services to enhance customers' efficiencies and workflow. During 2020, he set an example for LRUS employees to meet the pandemic challenges head-on, dedicating themselves to the needs of customers while delivering on strategic priorities. Through these initiatives, Dean led the launch of several products to improve LRUS' digital platforms and the user experience, helping customers save time, labor, and money while providing them with vital resources at a time when legal professionals faced unprecedented challenges due to the pandemic.

Wolters Kluwer also earned three product awards, including a Silver Award for Business Information Solution for M&A Deals on RBsourceFilings, a Gold Award for Solution for Integrating Content into the Workflow for Application Programming Interface (API) for Cheetah, and a Gold Award for Company Innovation of the Year for The COVID-19 State & Federal Compare Smart Chart.

The Golden Bridge Awards recognize and honor the world's best in organizational performance, products and services, innovations, executives and management teams, women in business and the professions, case studies and successful deployments, public relations and marketing campaigns, product management, websites, blogs, white-papers, videos, advertisements, creativity, partner programs, and customer satisfaction programs from every major industry in the world.

About Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S.

Wolters Kluwer (WKL) is a global leader in professional information, software solutions, and services for the healthcare; tax and accounting; governance, risk and compliance; and legal and regulatory sectors. We help our customers make critical decisions every day by providing expert solutions that combine deep domain knowledge with technology and services.

Wolters Kluwer reported 2020 annual revenues of 4.6 billion. The group serves customers in over 180 countries, maintains operations in over 40 countries, and employs approximately 19,200 people worldwide. The company is headquartered in Alphen aan den Rijn, the Netherlands.

Wolters Kluwer shares are listed on Euronext Amsterdam (WKL) and are included in the AEX and Euronext 100 indices. Wolters Kluwer has a sponsored Level 1 American Depositary Receipt (ADR) program. The ADRs are traded on the over-the-counter market in the U.S. (WTKWY).

For more information about Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S., visit www.WoltersKluwerLR.com, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Media

Linda Gharib

Director, Brand & Communications

Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S.

Tel: +1 (646) 887-7962

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S.
"I am proud that our market-leading solutions have been recognized by the 2021 Golden Bridge Awards," said Ken Crutchfield, Vice President and General Manager of Legal Markets at Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S. "We have continued to accelerate our efforts to provide innovative solutions and best-in-class content for our customers, and these solutions have helped to drive efficiency and insights for a wide range of legal professionals."

M&A Deals on RBsourceFilings, which earned a Silver Award for Business Information Solution, optimizes the M&A agreement drafting and negotiating process. M&A Deals boosts an attorney's negotiating position by giving them deep insight into the past agreements of deal counterparties, understanding of what is typical for the industry, and the past deals of an acquiring firm. Powerful full text search and browse tools guide attorneys to specific language that will boost their position, from a database of thousands of M&A agreements and over 800,000 individual clauses. To learn more about M&A Deals on RBsourceFilings, visit: https://lrus.wolterskluwer.com/store/transactional-law-suite/

Application Programming Interface (API) for Cheetah, which earned a Gold Award for Solution for Integrating Content into the Workflow, enables the seamless integration of Wolters Kluwer's deep domain expertise into practitioners' workflow. This enhancement makes it possible for law firms and other customers to access Wolters Kluwer's content from its award-winning Cheetah platform more quickly and efficiently, enabling decision making and access to valuable insights from anywhere, any time. To learn more about Application Programming Interface (API) for Cheetah, visit: https://know.wolterskluwerlr.com/LP=2284

The COVID-19 State & Federal Compare Smart Chart, which earned Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S. a Gold Award for Company Innovation of the Year, is a tool that provides up to date information on various topics impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, it looks at Labor & Employment, federal stimulus efforts, federal and state executive orders and actions, tax law, and other focus areas. Knowing the legal community was impacted by the pandemic professionally and personally, Wolters Kluwer included content coverage around topics it normally does not focus on, such as education, so that parents would be able to track mandates set by their state related to their children. The Smart Chart remains free on the open web and within the Cheetah platform today.

The Golden Bridge Awards recognize and honor the world's best in organizational performance, products and services, innovations, executives and management teams, women in business and the professions, case studies and successful deployments, public relations and marketing campaigns, product management, websites, blogs, white-papers, videos, advertisements, creativity, partner programs, and customer satisfaction programs from every major industry in the world.

About Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S.

Wolters Kluwer (WKL) is a global leader in professional information, software solutions, and services for the healthcare; tax and accounting; governance, risk and compliance; and legal and regulatory sectors. We help our customers make critical decisions every day by providing expert solutions that combine deep domain knowledge with technology and services.

Wolters Kluwer reported 2020 annual revenues of 4.6 billion. The group serves customers in over 180 countries, maintains operations in over 40 countries, and employs approximately 19,200 people worldwide. The company is headquartered in Alphen aan den Rijn, the Netherlands.

Wolters Kluwer shares are listed on Euronext Amsterdam (WKL) and are included in the AEX and Euronext 100 indices. Wolters Kluwer has a sponsored Level 1 American Depositary Receipt (ADR) program. The ADRs are traded on the over-the-counter market in the U.S. (WTKWY).

For more information about Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S., visit www.WoltersKluwerLR.com, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Media

Linda Gharib

Director, Brand & Communications

Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S.

Tel: +1 (646) 887-7962

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S.

Related Links

http://www.wolterskluwerlr.com


Its great news that Revolut has raised a further US$800mln and plans to expand even further," said Chancellor Rishi Sunak

We want to see even more great British Fintech success stories like Revolut", said the Chancellor

Revolut was crowned Britain most valuable fintech as it completed an US$800mln funding round that gave it a price tag of US$33bn.

The banking and payments apps raised the money from two cornerstone investors  Softbank and Tiger Global - which despite their hefty investment own less than 2.5% of the business between them.

Revolut has not been without controversy since it was founded in 2015 by former trader Nikolay Storonsky because of his annoyance about hidden bank charges, not least over alleged links to Russia earlier in its life.

The business now though has more than 16mln customers in 35 countries and ambitions to expand into the US, China and India using the money raised today.

Mikko Salavaara, chief financial officer, said the raised money would be spent on marketing and product development but would not affect plans to go public eventually.

Eventually we will be a public company, but there are no immediate plans to list, reported the Standard.

The value of todays deal also raised eyebrows, as last year a fundraise involving US groups TCV and TSG Consumer Partners valued the digital bank at US$5.5bn.

But it has been a beneficiary of a surge in online activity and trading that has boosted transactions to more than 150mln per month allied to soaring values of private funding deals.

In May, Revolut said losses in 2020 had risen to more than 200mln as the group recruited heavily to cope with the surge in demand for its dealing and payment services, though it said it made a profit in the last two months.

The group has also struggled with compliance issues due to the speed of its expansion, but after the heavy investment in its systems is said to now be confident these have been addressed.

In a statement, Storonsky, said, SoftBank and Tiger Globals investments are an endorsement of our mission to create a global financial superapp that enables customers to manage all their financial needs through a single platform.

This funding round makes Revolut the UKs most valuable fintech, demonstrating investors confidence that we can deliver products that raise the bar for customers expectations across the whole financial services industry.

The fundraise will be a boost for the UK governments attempts to attract more fintech and technology-based companies to the UK and todays funding was warmly applauded by chancellor Rishi Sunak.

Its great news that Revolut has raised a further US$800mln and plans to expand even further  creating more jobs here in the UK.

We want to see even more great British Fintech success stories like Revolut, which is why Ive published a roadmap setting out how we will ensure the UK sector remains competitive, forward-looking, and dynamic.

Karol Niewiadomski, senior investor for SoftBank Investment Advisers, added Revoluts rate of innovation has redefined the role of financial services, placing [Revolut] at the forefront of Europes nascent neobanking sector.
Just 14 months after a pre-feasibility study, ore from Australias biggest onshore manganese deposit has been shipped out, solidifying Element 25s move from explorer to producer.

Element 25 Ltds (ASX:E25) first manganese ore shipment from its flagship Butcherbird project has set sail from Port Hedland in Western Australia.

The manganese developer exported 27,000 tonnes of high-grade manganese concentrate from its wholly-owned project, Australias largest onshore manganese resource, on Wednesday, July 14.

Offtake partner OM Materials Pte Ltd (OMS)  a subsidiary of fellow ASX-lister OM Holdings Limited  is set to receive the maiden ore shipment.

Overall, the first-ever export kicks off a broader four-stage plan that positions Element 25 to provide high-grade manganese concentrate to the global electric vehicles market.

The maiden ore shipment underway.

A historic day

At a ceremony today at Butcherbird, Element 25 managing director Justin Brown paid tribute to everyone who had worked on the project.

"Today is a historic day for all the people who have worked tirelessly to bring this project to life, for Element 25 and for the Australian mining industry.

"It has been a testament to Australian ingenuity, persistence and hard work that Element 25 has managed to achieve this feat in such a short period of time with a pre-feasibility study completed only 14 months ago.

After thousands of man-hours, multiple layers of permitting, engineering drawings, contracts, financing activities, and a healthy dose of passion and toil, stage one of our project has come to life.

"We fully intend for this to be the first step in a multi-stage growth journey for this world-class manganese project with the expansion of concentrate production as part of our stage two plans to be followed by developing the processing infrastructure to produce battery-grade Zero Carbon Manganese for the lithium-ion batteries that will power the electrification of the global vehicle fleet.

Birds-eye view of the Butcherbird Manganese Project.

Multi-stage manganese play

As it continues to develop the world-class Butcherbird manganese play, E25 has outlined a long-term strategy for its foundational Pilbara asset.

Currently, Butcherbird hosts 263 million tonnes of resource, grading at 10% for 20.8 million tonnes of contained manganese.

The project also bears a 50.6-million-tonne reserve with a 10.3% grade for 5.22 million tonnes of contained manganese.

Overall, the ASX-lister intends to maximise the manganese asset's potential with a four-stage strategy set to play out over the next five years.

Timeline of Element 25s four-stage plan for Butcherbird.

During its low-capex stage one operation, Element 25 expects to produce 365,000 tonnes of manganese concentrate per annum over a 40-year mine life.

Once a key pre-feasibility study is complete, the manganese developer intends to move into stage two at Butcherbird next year.

This involves greatly expanding Butcherbirds concentrate production to produce manganese feedstock, which the company will convert to high purity manganese sulphate monohydrate.

This leads into stage three of the project: creating a high purity manganese resource that E25 can supply to the new energy vehicle markets, which is poised to lead the global transition away from fossil fuel-powered mobility.

Finally, in stage four, Element 25 intends to set a global standard with its Zero Carbon Manganese product, creating an ethically produced, zero-carbon resource for international markets.

Shares higher

Investors have also celebrated the milestone, sending shares as much as 4.6% higher in early trading to $2.28 while E25"s market cap before the opening was approximately $324.4 million.
The appointment of Paul Marcos as head of development underpins Sovereigns commitment to rapidly advance the Kasiya Project in Malawi, which is regarded as one of the worlds largest undeveloped rutile projects.

Attracting individuals of this calibre to the Sovereign team is a huge endorsement of the Kasiya Project, says MD.

Sovereign Metals Limited ( ) ( ) has appointed Paul Marcos, an engineering and consulting expert with considerable mineral sands experience, as head of development for the Kasiya Rutile Project in Malawi.

According to the company, Marcos appointment will bring deep mineral sands metallurgical processing, engineering and operations expertise.

As head of development, he will lead and manage key technical components of the Kasiya Project, including the ongoing scoping study due for completion this year and also for future feasibility study programs.

Relevant technical experience

Sovereigns managing director Julian Stephens said: We are very pleased to welcome Paul to our team.

He brings significant relevant technical experience and enthusiasm for mineral sands.

Attracting individuals of this calibre to the Sovereign team is a huge endorsement of the Kasiya Project.

Having managed process engineering and given his involvement in feasibility studies for a number of African mineral sands projects, Paul is uniquely qualified to lead key technical components in developing the Kasiya Project.

Underpins company's commitment

Following the maiden mineral resource estimate delivered in June 2021 which confirmed the Kasiya Project as one of the worlds largest undeveloped rutile projects, Marcos appointment underpins Sovereigns commitment to rapidly advance the project.

A scoping study is targeting a large-scale natural rutile operation to fill some of the existing supply deficit with the purest and most environmentally sustainable titanium feedstock.

Experience and expertise

Marcos has more than 27 years of operations, engineering and consulting experience, the majority of this in mineral sands.

Most recently, Marcos was working with ( ) (ASX:BSE), where he spent five years and served as metallurgical and processing superintendent  project development.

At Base, he also worked on pre-feasibility studies, definitive feasibility studies and engineering design studies for the Kwale North and Kwale Phase 2 Projects in Kenya as well as the Toliara Project in Madagascar.

Between 1996 and 2004, Marcos was working with mineral sands producer Iluka Resources Limited and had also served as a senior technical consultant at TZ Minerals International (TZMI), a company that specialises in all aspects of the mineral sands, titanium dioxide and coatings industries.

Marcos had also worked at global engineering firm Ausenco Ltd as a lead process engineer for numerous mineral sands and bulk commodities projects with a focus on flowsheet development, process engineering and test-work.
Seoul, July 13 : Samsung's upcoming foldable smartphone Galaxy Z Fold3 might come with support for the S Pen Pro and can be priced between KRW 1,900,000 and KRW 1,999,000 ($1,655-$1,741), the media reported.

Meanwhile, the Z Flip3 will retail between KRW 1,200,000 and KRW 1,280,000 ($1,045-$1,110), reports GSMArwna.

The latest pricing info comes from a post on the South Korean forum Naver Blog and corroborates earlier rumours of a 20 per cent price cut compared to the previous generation of Samsung foldables.

The report also mentions that Samsung sees this year's folding duo as mass popularisers for the folding form factors.

The Verge reported that S Pen Pro's support for the Z Fold 3 isn't a major surprise -- the company has been hinting toward some sort of S Pen support for the foldable for some time.

The stylus, which doesn't have a release date but is set to hit this year, is also likely to support the S21 Ultra, the Note 20 lineup and more.

According to noted social media leaker Evan Blass, the Samsung event is set to take place on August 11.

Blass shared images of Galaxy Z Fold 3 in white, green and black colours. Galaxy Z Fold 3 may support the S Pen stylus.

He also tweeted Galaxy Z Flip 3 in purple, black, gold and green colours.

A recent report said that the Galaxy Z Fold 3 will feature an under-display camera and support the S-Pen stylus. Its next clamshell foldable Galaxy Z Flip3 is expected to have a bigger outer display.

The Galaxy Z Flip 3 is expected to feature a larger external display of 1.83 inches. It has a dual-camera system, which reportedly includes a 12MP main snapper and a 12MP ultrawide snapper.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Rio De Janeiro, July 15 : Hospital admissions and deaths due to Covid-19 have declined in Brazil thanks to progress in vaccination against the virus, Brazil's Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) has said.

In its weekly bulletin on the pandemic on Wednesday, the federally-funded medical research facility said that for the first time since December, no Brazilian state has reported intensive care units (ICUs) with over 90 per cent occupancy, Xinhua news agency reported.

However, four states are in the "critical alert zone," with more than 80 per cent ICU occupancy, including Santa Catarina (82 per cent), Goias and Parana (at 81 per cent occupancy each), and the Federal District (80 per cent).

Most of Brazil is in the "medium alert zone," with ICU occupancy rates of 60 to 80 per cent, while seven states are on low alert, with occupancy of less than 60 percent, including Acre, which has just 24 per cent occupancy.

"Vaccines are especially effective in preventing serious cases," said Fiocruz, urging continued social distancing, use of masks and hygiene measures, and calling on the entire population to get vaccinated.

"The possibility of the emergence of variants with the potential to reduce the effectiveness of available vaccines is pertinent and cannot be overlooked," it added.

For the third week in a row, deaths caused by Covid-19 fell, although they remained at high levels, with more than 46,000 cases of infection and 1,300 deaths a day on average last week.

The fatality rate is around 3 per cent, which is considered high.

Brazil has the world's second-highest pandemic death toll, with more than 535,000 deaths, and third-worst outbreak, with over 19 million cases.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, July 15 : Indian fugitive businessman Mehuk Choksi, who is wanted in Rs 13,500 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case has returned to Antigua and Barbuda from Dominica, two days after being granted bail on medical grounds.

Choksi's lawyer Vijay Aggarwal told IANS: "My client Choksi has returned to his home in Antigua safely. He faced no issues while entering back in Antigua." Aggarwal said that Choksi is receiving medical treatment and his family is feeling relieved however torture during kidnapping has him caused lot of psychological and physical harm.

"All well that ends well. After tasting success in Dominica now legal team is gearing up for long drawn fight in Antigua," Aggarwal added.

Choksi was granted bail on medical grounds on Monday by Dominica High Court.

The court has asked Choksi to deposit Eastern Caribbean dollars 10,000 (around Rs 2.75 lakh) as surety for the bail.

His legal team approached the Dominica high court last week seeking relief on the ground that his health was deteriorating and he needed urgent medical attention.

The latest court order comes as a setback for Indian agencies that had moved court in Dominica to get Choksi repatriated to India.

Choksi's lawyer Vijay Aggarwal, told IANS, "Yes, Choksi has been granted bail on medical grounds." He said, "Dominica courts finally upheld the rule of law and rights of a human to be treated in the medical facilities of his choice. And all attempts by various agencies did not bear fruits. There is a solace in saying that all clever foxes end up as fur coats." His legal team approached the Dominica high court last week seeking relief on the ground that his health was deteriorating and he needed urgent medical attention.

Justice Abroad's Director and London-based international barrister Michael Polak is acting for Choksi as part of his legal team said, "The High Court of Dominica granted Choksi bail so that he can return to Antigua for medical treatment and adjourned his judicial review application and the criminal proceedings against him for unlawful entry." He said that Choksi is suffering from a number of ailments including cerebrovascular disease, coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, and blood dyscrasias. He is also suffering from a subdural haematoma, the collection of blood between the skull and the surface of the brain.

"Dominican doctors expressed concern that Choksi's current health problems are serious and reported that he is in need of the urgent medical assistance of a Neurologist and Neurosurgical Consultant and that this care is not available in Dominica," Polak said.

Polak said, "We are very pleased that the Dominican Court has made the principled and humanitarian decision to release Mr Choksi so that he can access specialist medical care in Antigua." He stated that Choksi has been through a very difficult few weeks and has been subject to an ordeal which has had a detrimental effect on him physically. "It is the right outcome that he be able to return to Antigua, where he can access the medical attention that he requires and be with his family," he added.

Choksi's bail plea was supposed to be heard on July 23 but was heard on July 12 on medical grounds. His lawyers had moved the court pleading that he was suffering from a neurological disorder for which he needed treatment in Antigua.

The bail order comes amid allegations from Choksi's family and lawyers that the jeweller was abducted from Jolly Harbour area of Antigua by agents of Indian agencies and forcibly taken to Dominica on May 23.

Choksi is facing a case of extradition in Antigua on India's request.

Choksi had gone missing on May 23 from Antigua and Barbuda, sparking a massive manhunt. He was later captured in Dominica where he faced charges of entering the country illegally.

Choksi had filed a case in the high court of Dominica, seeking to quash the proceedings against him alleging that his arrest was "dictated" by representatives of the Indian government.

The case was filed against the Immigration Minister of the Caribbean nation, its police chief and the investigating officer of the case.

Choksi pleaded that the decision to charge him for illegal entry violated the law and, accordingly, was null and void.

Choksi's lawyer had alleged that their client was kidnapped and forcibly taken to Dominica.

Choksi is wanted in India by the Central Bureau of Investigation and the Enforcement Directorate.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, July 15 : Way back in 2014-15, when an engineer was lynched by a mob in Pune, it got author Chandan Pandey thinking. While one hears of road rage and murders almost everyday, Pandey says the fact that when a crowd is created -- with sometimes through calls given over the loudspeakers of different religious places -- facts and fiction mixed, and killings executed coldly, it demands more than a newspaper headline.

His novel 'Legal Fiction' (originally Vaidhanik Galp), translated by Bharatbhooshan Tiwari and published by HarperCollins India , which recently hit the stands reflects on several realities faced by contemporary India including the controversial CAA, 'Love Jihad', hate mongering and mob lynchings. In fact, the author took back the original manuscript written long back from the Hindi publisher to add different elements. "Yes. I had submitted a long novel in 2015. However, in order to ascertain that the message was not lost, I amended the story and made three novels. This one is the first in the series." Pandey also wanted to go into the history of mob-lynchings and find out if they had been happening across the world in the past. "American history is rife with this. In every generation of American history, such incidents have occurred. For example, when the non-white Americans were granted franchise. I wanted to explore that in the Indian mentality." Adding that the powers-to-be tend to claim that the mob and its actions are spontaneous, the author stresses that in most cases, the reverse is true. "It is mostly premeditated. After the violence has subsided and the names of people present there come out in public domain, one wonders what were they doing there in the first place?" Talk to him about the liberals' chair-borne analysis of extreme right wing, and how their dismissive attitude had led to a completely wrong reading of different organisations, the author admits that it is foolish to think that the right wing does not understand psychology or lacks organisational skills, not to mention immense swaying power. "I read somewhere that they just pretend to be foolish. They might initially try to present their ideas as jokes, but later become steadfast. Instead of dismissing them, we should be trained to see how they function." As he talks about 'Love Jihad' in his book, Pandey, whose father worked in Government Railway Police, feels that the Indian police establishment needs a complete overhaul. "Sadly, they are always side on the side of the powerful. In the police barracks, you might find an individual devouring a brilliant piece of literature. However, the moment they don the uniform, there is complete metamorphosis." Smiling that he does not really have the kind of a dream life that a writer imagines, Pandey, who works with the TATA group says, "So many authors spend a major part of their mornings writing. Well, I have to be ready for the office cab everyday. There is no method to my writing process as I need to travel a lot for work. But yes, nowadays, I wake up at 3 am to sit on the writing desk." Lamenting that Hindi writers mostly get a raw deal -- lack of scholarships and grants, not to mention unprofessionalism of many from Hindi language publishing houses, he says, "All my friends warn me -- 'don't even think about leaving your job. When we talk about Hindi, there are two types of people. The establishment and people who love it. There was a time when many Hindi publishers would not even release the paperback edition of books for years. Of course things are slowly changing with new age ones coming up. Also, one tends to compare things with English ones. The kind of effort put in by the latter -- agents, editors, marketing, payments etc," says the writer whose first story was published in 2004.

(Sukant Deepak can be contacted at sukant.d@ians.in)
Tehran, July 15 : Outgoing Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that the country is capable of producing enriched uranium of 90 per cent purity.

In pursuing the peaceful use of nuclear technology, the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran has shown its capability and power to produce enriched uranium at higher degrees (of purity), Xinhua news agency quoted Rouhani as saying in a cabinet meeting on Wednesday.

"If one day 90 per cent (enriched uranium) is needed for a reactor, we have no problem in doing so in a peaceful way," he added.

Even the pressure from former US President Donald Trump could not halt the progress of Iran's peaceful nuclear program, Rouhani noted.

After a blackout struck the Natanz enrichment facility in April, Iran accused Israel of sabotaging the nuclear site and announced that it began to produce uranium enriched at 60 per cent purity.
Washington, July 15 : The US will launch "Operation Allies Refuge" in late July to evacuate eligible Afghan nationals and their families who helped the American military during the two-decade war in the South Asian country, White House Press Secretary jen Psaki announced.

"Flights out of Afghanistan for SIV (Special Immigrant Visa) applicants who are already in the pipeline will begin in the last week of July and will continue," White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters in a daily briefing.

"our objective is to get individuals who are eligible relocated out of the country in advance of the removal, of the withdrawal of troops at the end of August." She did not provide a specific number of qualified applicants, citing operational and security reasons.

"We are working closely with Congress to change the authorisation legislation so that we can streamline the process of approving these visas," she added.

According to media reports, an estimated 18,000 applicants are already awaiting visas, with an estimated 53,000 family members seeking to accompany them.

The application process can take as long as 800 days, Xinhua news agency reported.

President Joe Biden's administration has been facing pressure from lawmakers to work out a plan to evacuate Afghans who helped the US military and are vulnerable to Taliban reprisals amid the withdrawal of troops.

President Biden announced last week that US military mission in Afghanistan will conclude on August 31, days ahead of his original September 11 deadline.

The US Central Command said on Tuesday that the military has already completed over 95 per cent of the withdrawal.

The security situation in the war-torn country has deteriorated as Taliban militants continue heavy fighting against government forces and are gaining ground since the drawdown of the US troops on May 1.
Seoul, July 15 : South Korea's ICT ministry said on Thursday the country plans to invest nearly $26.2 million over the next three years to research digital treatment for depression in a move to find new ways to help the growing number of people suffering from the mental disorder.

The number of depression patients in South Korea reached 790,000 in 2019, up 5.9 percent on-year, and the number is expected to rise as the pandemic restricts social activities and triggers economic uncertainty.

Digital treatment methods, such as games and virtual reality software, have recently drawn attention as a possible alternative to treat and prevent mental health disorders without direct physical care.

The Ministry of Science and ICT said it has earmarked 14 billion won until 2024 for the research programme, while the private sector will invest 14.9 billion won, reports Yonhap news agency.

The research aims to develop a digital service that offers personalised depression diagnoses based on real-time collection and analysis of user data, as well as a service that provides preventative measures against the disease by using smartphones and other mobile devices.

Experts across various fields, from artificial intelligence to mental health, will take part in the research, including Kim Hyung-sook, a cognitive science professor at Hanyang University.

Naver Cloud, the cloud arm of South Korea's internet giant Naver Corp., will also participate in the program to build a cloud infrastructure for the digital platforms.
Los Angeles, July 15 : Public health officials in Los Angeles, the most populous county in the US, have reported a monthly increase of more than 500 per cent in the number of new coronavirus case.

On June 13, the five-day average of cases was 201, while the five-day average on Tuesday is 1,095, up 544.8 per cent, Xinhua news agency quoted the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health as saying on Wednesday.

The test positivity rate has increased nearly 700 per cent from the 0.5 per cent seen a month ago to Tuesday's 3.4 per cent, according to the Department.

The Department confirmed 1,103 new cases and 12 new deaths in the past 24 hours.

It's the fifth day in a row the county, home to over 10 million residents, has reported over 1,000 new cases amid spread of Delta variant in the region.

To date, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has identified 1,259,772 confirmed cases with 24,554 deaths since the pandemic began last year.

Officials noted earlier this month that the Delta variant has been the most commonly sequenced variant in Los Angeles County since the beginning of June.

"The Covid-19 vaccines are the most powerful tool to reduce the risk of serious illness if infected. A significant number of unvaccinated people indoors, with a highly contagious Delta variant circulating, makes it easy for this variant to be transmitted at higher rates," said the county's Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer in the release.

She urged Los Angeles residents to get vaccinated without delay to have the best protection.

Among residents aged 16 and above in Los Angeles County, 69 per cent have received at least one dose, and 61 per cent now have been fully vaccinated, official data showed.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Etah : , July 15 (IANS) An unmarried 40-year-old deaf and mute man who was taken for Covid vaccination by an ASHA worker, was sterilized instead at the district hospital.

The Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) worker left the man, certified with 100 per cent disability, at a distance from the hospital.

Soon after returning home, Dhruv Kumar fell unconscious.

He was rushed to the district hospital, from where doctors referred him to the SN Medical College in Agra.

According to reports, Dhruv Kumar is a resident of Bishanpur village in Etah district ASHA worker, Neelam Kumari, allegedly got the man sterilized to complete the target given to each block by the district health department ahead of the world population day on July 11 and to earn an incentive of Rs 400 for promoting sterilization.

Dhruv's elder brother, Ashok Kumar, who works as a labourer, said, "My wife and I are uneducated and do not know about the proceedings of the Covid-19 vaccination. On Sunday, Neelam Kumari came to my house and asked for permission to take my disabled brother for the vaccination.

"She claimed that if my brother would go for vaccination along with her, he will be getting Rs 3,000 (the amount provided by the state government to a male member on sterilization). For availing benefit of the government scheme, she asked for the bank passbook and Aadhaar card of my brother. She took my brother and after an hour left him on the way back home." He said that his brother fell unconscious after reaching home.

A doctor on duty at the emergency ward of the district hospital said, "Dhruv Kumar was unconscious when he was brought to the hospital. For better treatment, he was referred to Agra with the consent of the family members. I do not know the details of the entire matter. But the sterilization procedure cannot be done on an unmarried man." Etah chief medical officer Dr Umesh Tripathi said, "We have taken cognizance of the ASHA worker allegedly getting an unmarried man sterilized on pretext of Covid-19 vaccine. The entire matter is being investigated." Meanwhile, Etah police are yet to register an FIR on the basis of the complaint filed by the victim's brother.

"A complaint has been received regarding the unlawful sterilization of a man. The matter has been brought to the notice of senior officials. It is an alleged case of medical negligence. Required action will be taken on the basis of the health department's probe findings," said the Awagarh police station house officer (SHO) Manvendra Tyagi.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
July 15 : Sunny Leone and her husband Daniel Weber have bought a new house in India. Taking to her Instagram handle, Sunny gave a sneak peek into her new house, where she shifted with her husband and three children.

Sunny shared a series of pictures on social media, as she and her family moved into their new home in Mumbai. In one picture, Daniel Weber can be seen carrying Sunny in his arms as they enter the new home. The kidsdaughter Nisha, and sons Noah and Ashercan be seen rejoicing the happy moment. In another picture, the whole family can be seen enjoying a pizza party on the floor. Sharing the pictures, Sunny, wrote, Here we go baby love @dirrty99!! A new chapter in our life here in India begins!! I love the home and life we have built here and this beautiful home is truly icing on the cake with our 3 beautiful children!! #satnamwaheguru

Sunny and Daniel also have a house in Los Angeles, where the couple stayed during the coronavirus pandemic last year.

On the work front, Sunny was hosting the show MTV Splitsvilla along with Rannvijay Singha. The latest season was shot at the Poovar Island Resorts in Kerala, keeping in mind all the Covid-19 restrictions. Sunny Leone will be next seen in Tamil film Veeramadevi. Helmed by Vadivudaiyan and produced by Ponse Stephen, the film marks Sunnys debut in the Tamil film industry. The film, which was shot in Tamil, will be simultaneously released in Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam and Telugu. The actress also has Rangeela, Shero, Koka Kola and Helen in her kitty.
Brasilia, July 15 : Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has been diagnosed with an intestinal obstruction and must be transferred to Sao Paulo, where doctors will assess whether he needs an emergency surgery, according to authorities.

The Communication Secretariat of the Brazilian Presidency said on Wednesday that Bolsonaro was admitted to the Armed Forces Hospital here earlier in the day, after suffering from abdominal pain and persistent hiccups, reports Xinhua news agency.

His office said earlier that Bolsonaro would be under observation "for a period of 24 to 48 hours, not necessarily in the hospital".

But according to the latest statement, gastric surgeon Antonio Luiz Macedo, who has been monitoring Bolsonaro's health since he was stabbed during the 2018 electoral campaign, discovered the intestinal obstruction.

Macedo was called to Brasilia to treat the President and is to oversee his evaluation in Sao Paulo.

Macedo "found an intestinal obstruction and decided to take him to Sao Paulo, where he will carry out complementary tests to determine whether emergency surgery is needed or not", according to the statement.
July 15 : In a video that surfaced on social media, Aamir Khan and his former wife Kiran Rao can be seen dancing together at the sets of Laal Singh Chaddha in Ladakh. The video was uploaded by a fan of Aamir Khan.

In the video that is going around in social media, Aamir and producer Kiran Rao can be seen dressed in the red traditional attire of Ladakh, as they danced on the sets of the film. Local people can be seen enjoying their dance, as they click pictures of the former couple. It seems that an event was organised in honour of Aamir Khan. Aamir was seen in a red outfit, paired with a purple hat, while Kiran was dressed in a dark pink dress, and a green hat.

In another video uploaded by another fan of the actor, Aamir can be seen dancing with a few kids on the sets of Laal Singh Chaddha in Ladakh. The actor was casually dressed in white T-shirt, layered with a black shirt, which he paired with black pants.

Earlier this month, Aamir and Kiran had announced their separation in a joint statement. The former couple said that they will continue to co-parent their son, Azad Rao Khan and also work together for their NGO and other projects. Their statement read, "In these 15 beautiful years together we have shared a lifetime of experiences, joy and laughter, and our relationship has only grown in trust, respect and love. Now we would like to begin a new chapter in our lives - no longer as husband and wife, but as co-parents and family for each other."

Laal Singh Chaddha is the official Hindi remake of Tom Hanks' 1994 blockbuster Forrest Gump. Besides Aamir Khan, the film also stars Kareena Kapoor Khan, Mona Singh and Naga Chaitanya, who is currently shooting with Aamir in Ladakh. Helmed by Advait Chandan, the film is backed by Aamir Khan Productions, Viacom18 Studios and Paramount Pictures. Laal Singh Chaddha is written by Atul Kulkarni. The film is slated to release on Christmas 2021.

Aamir and the team is on a three-week schedule in Ladakh. The team is filming an extended war sequence that is being shot in Kargil and Ladakh. The actor and the entire team will reportedly return to Mumbai by the end of the month. The final leg of the film will be shot in Mumbai in September.
July 15 : Priyanka Chopra, who is in London for quite some time now, completing her projects, went exploring London on Wednesday. The actress took to her Instagram stories and shared a selfie, in which she posed for the camera with all smiles, set for the electric scooter ride.

The White Tiger actress can be seen dressed in a white outfit that featured polka dots of multiple colours, along with matching shoes. "Let's go explore," she wrote in her caption. She also shared a video and another picture from the streets of London.

Earlier also the actress shared some pictures on her Instagram stories, giving a glimpse of her London life. In the pictures, she was seen exploring London with her stylist Divya Jyoti. The tagline on one picture read as, just vibin, while another was what to do next. She also shared an image, wherein she and Divya Jyoti can be seen walking, which she captioned it as Looking for adventure. #londonlife."

Last week, Priyanka attended the Wimbledon Women's Singles finals as well as the Men's Singles Finals. She was joined by socialite Natasha Poonawalla and James G Boutler. "Congratulations to Novak Djokovic and Ashleigh Barty on your incredible matches and victories. And a special thank you to Chairman of the All England Club, Ian Hewitt, and Ralph Lauren for having me as your guest," she wrote in the caption of the post.

Recently, Priyanka reunited with her cousin Parineeti Chopra who is currently in London and took her Covid-19 jab. Parineeti shared a bunch of pictures on her Instagram and credited the pictures to Priyanka. In one picture, she was seen cuddling Priyankas chihuahua, Diana, while nursing her arm.

Priyanka is in London for her work commitments. While she completed shooting for Text For You, a romantic comedy with Mindy Kaling, currently, the actress is shooting for the Amazon spy series Citadel, which also stars Richard Madden. Besides, Priyanka has The Matrix 4, a biopic on Ma Anand Sheela, and an Amazon series in her kitty.
Varanasi, July 15 : Finally, Varanasi has a railway station with its old name, Banaras.

The fully renovated Manduadih railway station has been renamed as Banaras railway station.

The North Eastern Railway (NER) authorities have replaced the signboard with the new name of the station as Banaras.

NER's divisional railway manager (Varanasi) Vijay Kumar Panjiar said, "We received the final approval of railway board for the renaming Manduadih as Banaras railway station on Wednesday. After this, the replacement of sign boards started. The new code of Banaras railway station will be BSBS. The new sign boards contain the name of the station in Hindi, English, Urdu and also Sanskrit." According to the NER officials, the process for renaming of this railway station had been initiated by former minister of state for railway and now Lt Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, in February 2019.

In the same year, the Yogi Adityanath government accepted the proposal and forwarded it to the ministry of home affairs.

The formal renaming of Manduadih railway station as Banaras Railway Station by the Governor was done on September 16, 2020 in view of the NOC given by the ministry of home affairs of Government of India on March 31, 2020.

The officials had also started replacing the old name of station on sign boards but this process was stopped on September 20, 2020 as the process of change of code of railway station in centre of railway information system (CRIS) and freight operations information system (FOIS) could not be completed and the old code of Manduadih railway station existed in the system for journey ticket booking.

The officials said that in view of this, the NER had decided to start the replacement of the old name of the station by a new one only after completion of entire processes by the railway board.

With the finalisation of the renaming process 'Banaras' as a name of any railway station has returned on the Indian Railways map.
Kanpur : , July 15 (IANS) Four persons have been arrested for allegedly running a fake international call centre in Kakadeo locality in Kanpur and duping 12,000 US citizens of at least 9 lakh dollars (Rs 67 crore) by hacking their data.

The arrests were made on Wednesday and the gang leader is a software engineer with a degree from Pune University and an expert in mobile hacking.

The police raided the gang's call centre and recovered several phones, computer hard disks and ATM cards.

Police commissioner Asim Arun said, "The fraudsters were cheating people in the US in dollars by hacking their mobile phones through the call centre. Mastermind Munendra Sharma is a software engineer from Pune University, and a resident of Noida, Sanjeev, a resident of Firozabad, Zikrulla, a native of Pratapgarh, and Suraj Suman, a resident of Bihar are the others in the gang." Police have recovered 27 hard disks, six ATM cards of different banks, passport, Aadhar card, driving licence, five Android phones, American Express Bank debit card, two PAN cards, Hotel Taj membership card from their possession, said the official.

According to the official, as soon as American citizens would click on blinking ads on any site, such as reduce obesity, reduce belly, strengthen knees, increase length or stop hair fall, then a malware would be uploaded to their mobile. Pop-up messages would start appearing on the screen again and again, causing inconvenience to the mobile user. A helpline number would come with the annoying pop ups and as soon as the victim called the number and the gang would ask for a charge in dollars to clean the virus and give their service.

"The user would transfer money to the specified account, after which he was asked to download some app for technical support. The phone was hacked as soon as the user downloaded the app." said the official.

The plan was sold by the call centre in the name of removing the malware and providing service for six months to one year. In case no service was given, they promised to refund the amount. When a user asked for money back by saying that the service was not good, he used to become a victim of fraud.

Since the caller's mobile was already hacked, the gangsters used to change the coding by going to the HTML of the account details on remote access.

They would then send fake messages of online transactions to the user's phone. In this message, the amount was shown to be many times more than the amount to be refunded, whereas in reality no amount was transferred. At the same time, the user felt that he had been refunded more, police said.
New Delhi, July 15 : The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) is warning of a looming humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan as the escalating conflict brings increased human suffering and civilian displacement.

UNHCR spokesperson Babar Baloch said that an estimated 270,000 Afghans have been newly displaced inside the country since January 2021, primarily due to insecurity and violence, bringing the total uprooted population to over 3.5 million.

Families forced to flee their homes in recent weeks cite the worsening security situation as the predominant reason for their flight.

Baloch said in addition to ongoing fighting, displaced civilians have told the UNHCR and partners of incidents of extortion by non-state armed groups and the presence of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) on major roads.

Many have reported interruptions to social services and a loss of income due to rising insecurity.

The number of civilian casualties has risen 29 per cent during the first quarter of this year compared to 2020, according to UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan.

An increasing proportion of women and children were among those targeted.

The needs of those who have had to flee suddenly are acute.

UNHCR and partners, as part of a coordinated response, are assisting newly displaced Afghans with emergency shelter, food, health, water and sanitation support and cash assistance, despite challenges in accessing vulnerable groups.

Baloch said the resilience of the Afghan people has been pushed to the limit by prolonged conflict, high levels of displacement, the impact of Covid-19, recurrent natural disasters, including drought, and deepening poverty.

Some 65 per cent of the Afghan population, in and outside of Afghanistan, are children and young people.

"A failure to reach a peace agreement in Afghanistan and stem the current violence will lead to further displacement within the country, as well as to neighbouring countries and beyond," Baloch said.

Iran and Pakistan host nearly 90 per cent of displaced Afghans, more than two million registered Afghan refugees in total.

Both countries have granted access to territory and protection to Afghan refugees, along with health and educational services through national systems.

"Their hospitality and inclusive policies, spanning decades and generations, must not be taken for granted," Baloch said.

The UNHCR welcomes the respective governments' commitment to provide access to asylum amidst the global health and socio-economic challenges of COVID-19.

"We stand ready to bolster humanitarian support to all host countries in the case of additional arrivals," it added.

The Agency has urged the international community to step up support to the Government and people of Afghanistan and its neighbours at this critical moment, in a spirit of solidarity and burden-sharing.

Humanitarian resources are currently falling dramatically short. The UNHCR's financial appeal for the Afghanistan situation, including operations for Afghan refugees in Pakistan and Iran, remains acutely underfunded, at only 43 per cent of a total $337 million required.

(Sanjeev Sharma can be reached at Sanjeev.s@ians.in)
Maine : , July 15 (IANS) Former US President George W. Bush has labelled the withdrawal of US and NATO troops from Afghanistan "a mistake", in an interview with DW.

"I'm afraid Afghan women and girls are going to suffer unspeakable harm," he said, adding that he was also concerned for translators and other people who gave support to foreign troops in Afghanistan.

"They're just going to be left behind to be slaughtered by these very brutal people, and it breaks my heart," Bush said in an interview to the German state broadcaster Deutsche Welle from his house in Maine.

The comments of the former US President, whose administration began the US-led war against the Taliban in 2001, refer to the hardline Islamic Taliban that are making sweeping gains across the country amid the drawdown of US and NATO forces, set to be complete by September -- 20 years after the war began.

Bush sent troops to Afghanistan in autumn 2001, following the September 11 terror attacks in the US.

Bush added that he believed German Chancellor Angela Merkel "feels the same way" about the pullout.

When DW asked Kabul-based journalist Ali Latifi about Bush's comments, he said: "I think it's very interesting that he's suddenly, you know, concerned about women and children," adding, "his war made a lot of widows and made a lot of children orphans." US and NATO forces began withdrawing from Afghanistan in early May. The US military said recently that troop withdrawal is more than 90 per cent complete and President Joe Biden said it would be wrapped up by August 31.

Political and military control have been handed to the Afghan government, which was meant to be carrying out peace talks with the Taliban.

But the Taliban have been carrying out an offensive, particularly in Afghanistan's rural areas, bringing more territories under its control.

On Wednesday, they reported taking control of the strategic Afghan border crossing to Pakistan at Spin Boldak on the border with Pakistan.

Biden last week ruled out further intervention in the country, saying the US had achieved its objectives of getting "the terrorists who attacked us on 9/11 and to deliver justice to Osama Bin Laden, and to degrade the terrorist threat".

He said: "We did not go to Afghanistan to nation-build. And it's the right and the responsibility of the Afghan people alone to decide their future and how they want to run their country." Asked about the legacy of the war in Afghanistan, journalist Latifi said: "The fact that we're having these questions is the legacy, right? The fact that the Taliban is still able to pose a threat to the government and to security forces, the fact that we're still having these battles and the fact that we're still asking what might happen to women, to children, to interpreters, you know, 20 years down the line -- that is the legacy."
San Francisco, July 15 : After Amazon, Facebook has also said that the Lina Khan-led US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) shouldn't decide the future of its antitrust case.

According to a Wall Street Journal report, Facebook has sought the recusal of the FTC Chair "from the agency's deliberations on whether to file a new antitrust case against the company".

The social network said that Khan couldn't be impartial because of her long history of criticising Big Tech.

"For the entirety of her professional career, Chair Khan has consistently and very publicly concluded that Facebook is guilty of violating the antitrust laws," the company said in a formal recusal petition filed with the FTC, the report said on Wednesday.

The petition claims that Khan has "prejudged Facebook's alleged antitrust liability" by supporting the FTC's earlier enforcement actions and by conducting academic and congressional investigations where she concluded Facebook had monopoly power.

Amazon has already sought the recusal of FTC Chair Lina Khan from probing its cases.

The FTC has also opened a probe into Amazon's $8.45 billion acquisition of movie and TV studio giant MGM. The investigation sets the stage for a lengthy probe that could last six months or more.

Khan, the newly-appointed chief of the FTC, is a strident Big Tech critic.

"Amazon's business strategies and current market dominance pose anti-competitive concerns that the consumer welfare framework in antitrust fails to recognise," wrote Lina Khan in the Yale Law School Journal.

The probe is part of an increased antitrust scrutiny from the Joe Biden administration.

According to a report in The Information citing sources, the FTC probe is an "in-depth investigation into the Amazon deal".

"It signals that the FTC, under the new leadership of Amazon critic Lina Khan, will take a hard line on even relatively small acquisitions by the e-commerce giant in industries where Amazon does not have a strong position," the report emphasised.
Puducherry, July 15 : The Union Territory of Puducherry will oppose the construction of the Mekedatu dam over Cauvery river by the Karnataka government.

Chief minister N. Rangasamy has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and union Jal Shakti minister, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat regarding the Union Territory's stiff opposition to the Mekedatu dam project which would result in depriving several areas of the union territory of Puducherry without water including Karaikal.

The chief minister had called upon the state public works minister K. Lakshminarayanan and other officials to study the impact of the reservoir on the people of Puducherry. If the dam is constructed across the Cauvery, the Karaikkal region of the union territory of Puducherry, which is the tail end of the Cauvery, would be seriously affected and both drinking water and water for irrigation purposes would be dried up.

Chief minister Rangasamy has in his letter to the Prime Minister and Union Jal Shakti minister written strongly that permission must not be granted to Karnataka for the construction of the dam.

Interestingly, both Puducherry and Karnataka are governed by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

An all-party delegation from Tamil Nadu will be meeting Union Jal Shakti Minister, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Friday. The main opposition, AIADMK which is an ally of the BJP in Tamil Nadu has strongly expressed its opposition to the Mekedatu dam.

D. Jayakumar, AIADMK leader and former Tamil Nadu minister who will represent the party in the New Delhi meeting, told IANS, "Tamil Nadu has all the right for Cauvery waters and we are strongly opposed to the construction of a dam at Mekedatu across Cauvery. We have extended our full support to the chief minister of Tamil Nadu regarding this and has already passed a resolution against the construction of the dam. I am part of an all-party delegation that is meeting the Union Jal Shakti Minister on Friday." The Tamil Nadu government has passed three resolutions against the Mekedatu dam project and has urged the union government not to give sanction to the proposed dam.
New Delhi, July 15 : India's cumulative Covid-19 vaccination coverage has crossed the landmark of 39 crore that includes 34,97,058 shots administered across the country in the past 24 hours.

Cumulatively, 39,13,40,491 vaccine doses have been administered through 49,41,567 sessions, said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) citing the provisional report received till 7 a.m. on Thursday.

In the ongoing massive vaccination coverage, 1,02,59,902 Healthcare Workers (HCWs) have been so far administered first dose of the anti-Covid jabs and 74,67,814 of them have been provided second dose. A total of 1,77,49,670 Frontline Workers (FLWs) have received first dose of the vaccine and 1,01,08,761 have been administered the second dose.

The vaccination exercise, which is claimed to be world's largest drive, has so far covered 11,80,17,979 people aged between 18-44 who have got their first dose and 42,03,947 have received their second dose.

In the drive, 9,60,12,486 people of the age group between 45-59 have got their first dose of vaccine and 2,62,71,510 have been administered the second dose.

This exercise has so far covered 7,14,89,465 people over 60 years of age having their first dose and 2,97,58,957 getting their second dose.

India's vaccination exercise began on January 16 this year. To accelerate the pace and expand the scope of Covid-19 vaccination throughout the country, the new phase of universalization of the vaccination commenced from June 21.

Amid vaccine crisis in government-run health facilities with 'no slots available' indication showing on government's CoWIN App -- a platform to made registration before approaching centres designated to vaccinate people -- despite Centre's all efforts to vaccinate people as soon as possible, the Minister said as of Wednesday there were more than 1.51 Cr (1,51,52,450) balance and unutilized Covid vaccine doses available with the states and the UTs and private hospitals yet to be administered.

As part of the nationwide vaccination drive, the central government has been supporting the states and the UTs by providing them Covid vaccines free of cost.

In the new phase of the universalization of the Covid-19 vaccination drive, the government is procuring and supplying (free of cost) 75 per cent of the vaccines being produced by the vaccine manufacturers in the country to states and the UTs.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Chennai, July 15 : Tamil Nadu Health minister Ma Subraminan will meet the Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in New Delhi on Thursday to demand more vaccine supply to the state.

Subraminan reached the national capital on Wednesday. He will press the Union government for a good supply of vaccines to the state as after high-pitched awareness campaigns even in rural areas of Tamil Nadu, there has been a high increase of people coming out to take the jab.

In several parts of the state, unruly scenes were witnessed after the people failed to get vaccinated even after standing in overnight queues. The minister will apprise the Union government of this situation and the urgent necessity to get sufficient quantities of vaccines for the state.

Ma Subramanian had earlier sought an appointment with the former Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on July 9 for getting enough vaccines but as the Union minister was replaced, the meeting was postponed for Thursday.

The Tamil Nadu Health Minister told IANS over the telephone said, "The daily vaccination numbers have improved considerably ever since the DMK government under Thiru M.K. Stalin assumed office but, still we are short of the requisite numbers. I am pressing the Union health ministry for an immediate supply of 2 crore vaccines to meet the necessity of the state." The meeting to be held on Thursday afternoon will also discuss the pending request of Chief Minister M.K.Stalin for one crore doses of vaccines to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his first visit to New Delhi after assuming office as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.

Tamil Nadu had reported three lakh vaccines on Monday and Tuesday but the number of vaccines administered had dropped to 2,07,259 doses on Wednesday. According to the Union Health Ministry data, around 30 lakh people of Tamil Nadu have received both the doses of vaccines and this is only around 5 per cent of the total population of the state.

Earlier, there was an acute shortage of the second dose of Covaxin in many districts of Tamil Nadu. In Madurai, people almost entered into fisticuffs with the security personnel, including policemen after the announcement of a shortage in Covaxin.

Ma Subramanian told IANS, "We are expecting the Centre to allocate us the requested dose of vaccines and a pending request of our Chief Minister Thiru Stalin to the Prime Minister Thiru Narendra Modi is already with the government."
July 15 : A police complaint has been filed against Kareena Kapoor Khan and two others by a Christian Group in Maharashtra's Beed city on Wednesday. According to reports, the title of the actress upcoming book - Kareena Kapoor Khan's Pregnancy Bible - has hurt the religious sentiments of the community. The book has been co-authored by Aditi Shah Bhimjani and published by Juggernaut Books.

A Christian group, Alpha Omega Christian Mahasangh, has taken objection to the title of the book and filed a police complaint in Beed, accusing them of hurting the religious sentiments of the community. Alpha Omega Christian Mahasangh president Ashish Shinde filed the complaint at the Shivaji Nagar Police Station in Beed over the book. In the complaint, Shinde objected to the title of the book, which says Pregnancy Bible". He said in the complaint, the holy word Bible has been used in the books title and this has hurt the religious sentiments of Christians.

Shinde has filed the case under IPC section 295-A (deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs) against Kareena Kapoor and two others. However, no FIR has been filed yet.

Shivaji Nagar Police Station in charge Inspector Sainath Thombre reportedly said to the media, We have received the complaint but no case can be registered here as the incident has not happened here (in Beed). I have advised him to file a complaint in Mumbai."

Kareena Kapoor had shared the first look of the book on July 9, 2021, and wrote, "This has been quite the journey both my pregnancies and writing my Pregnancy Bible. There were good days and bad days; some days I was raring to go to work and others where I struggled to get out of bed. This book is a very personal account of what I experienced both physically and emotionally through both my pregnancies."

The actress, who gave birth to her second child, in February this year, called the book her third child. She also shared a series of posts to promote the book on social media.
Tokyo, July 15 : A panel of the Japanese government has proposed a plan to raise the average minimum hourly wage by a record of 28 yen to 930 yen in fiscal 2021, local media reported.

The Labour Ministry's advisory panel proposed the 3.1-per cent increase of the minimum wage in its guidelines issued on Wednesday, Xinhua news agency reported citing the local media.

If the proposal is realised, it will log the biggest increase since fiscal 2002, and will likely strike a further blow to businesses that are already struggling amid the Covid-19 pandemic, according to local media reports.

The proposed jump came as Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga pledged to achieve an average hourly rate of at least 1,000 yenm"as soon as possible" to make sure part-time workers can earn more, and narrow the wage disparity between non-regular workers and regular employees.

The hike will surpass the previous record increase of 27 yen in fiscal 2019, according to the Ministry.

However, the gap of minimum wage between urban and rural areas remains large, even though Suga seeks to stimulate regional revitalization.

Under the new plan, the minimum wage in Tokyo would be the highest at 1,041 yen among the nation's 47 prefectures, while seven others in rural areas would mark the lowest at 820 yen.

The new minimum hourly wages will come into effect around October after local panels in each prefecture finalise the revised versions by August, with consideration on their economic situations.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, July 15 : In a unique initiative to fight the Covid pandemic, global beverage major Coca-Cola's CSR arm plans to ferry over 1.45 lakh rural folks for vaccinations across India.

Besides transportation assistance, the Coca-Cola Foundation's initiative focuses to spread awareness, facilitate community participation in vaccination, and provide safety kits in 25 districts across 10 states.

Accordingly, Coca-Cola Foundation has funded the non-profit 'United Way Mumbai' for the initiative under its global initiative 'Stop the Spread'.

"We are hopeful that with collective effort and resilience by all, we will be able to steer ourselves out of these difficult times," said Saadia Madsbjerg, President of TCCF.

The unique initiative, entails facilitating rural folks in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Punjab, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Telangana, Delhi and Haryana with transportation assistance from their villages to a designated vaccination centre.

At the centre, the beneficiaries of this facility will then be subjected to a one-on-one health check-up, after which, they will be administered an anti-Covid shot.

More than 1.45 lakh people in over 4,400 communities and villages across the country will be provided with the transportation service for vaccinations.

Furthermore, the initiative aims to strengthen close to 440 vaccination centres in rural and urban India.

The initiative is being rolled-out in phases across states.

Notably, in Karnataka, transportation assistance for more than 20,000 members from rural communities across the state will be provided.

Similarly, in Maharashtra, 7,200 members from rural communities across the state will be provided with the transportation assistance.

India suffered from a resurgence in Covid cases.

However, a sharp decline in new infection rate along with accelerated vaccination drive has given hope for normalcy to return soon.

(Rohit Vaid can be contacted at rohit.v@ians.in)

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Thiruvananthapuram, July 15 : Santhosh George Kulangara, 49, is best described as a one man army who in the past more than a decade has travelled to 130 countries and has done 1,800 episodes of travel documentaries being aired on his own TV channel. During one such visit to England in 2005, he spotted an ad in a newspaper inviting applicants for space travel.

Speaking to IANS, Kulangara said that advertisement interested him and prompted his application to Richard Branson, the founder of the Virgin Group.

"After that lot of paperwork took place and it was in 2007 that his application for it was cleared. Then I had regular meetings with them at their Space Centre or at their office in California and completed two training programmes in 2012 and 2013 and since then it's been a wait," said Kulangara.

"Honestly speaking as time elapses, the excitement I had when I first saw the ad in 2005 that I can travel to space is no longer there, now. The reason is, I do not consider that a space travel is the ultimate dream, that I have now, but nevertheless, I am happy that with their first mission taking place last week has turned successful, is definitely a good sign that my travel might take place soon," said Kulangara.

"We have regular meetings with Branson's team who keeps giving us updates and we are having the first interaction tomorrow with him, after he has returned from the first trip to space. We are expecting him to share his experience," added Kulangara.

Image Source: IANS News

"At the moment, I feel I am the first one from India who has registered and I do not know, if there are others from India. As things stand, my guess is with the first trip taking place, I might be going for the space trip, this year itself. I am ready for it anytime and there will be one last round of training," said Kulangara.

Kulangara travels all alone for doing his travelogue and just before Covid struck, he was in Mexico and he has now plans to travel to Iran and a few other countries and it will be done when the Covid tapers off.

Emphasising that one reason why his excitement that was there when he registered for the travel, is no longer there, he said it's because at the moment his dream is to finish his 50,000 sq feet production studio, which is fast nearing completion at Kochi.

Image Source: IANS News

"When complete, this will be the most updated studio as in the modern world, film shooting is all about technology and not going for an outdoor shoot in an area of 500 acres. Such times have gone and now technology has taken over and all the big budget films that one sees are done using technology. This is my dream now," quipped Kulangara.

-- Syndicated from IANS
Hampi : , July 15 (IANS) The number of tourists is picking up steadily for Karnataka's one of the most important world heritage sites, Hampi, located about 340 kilometers from Bengaluru.

Hampi, popularly known as an open museum of monuments scattered in a large area on the banks of the river Tungabhadra, attracts a large number of tourists from across the country and abroad.

When the restrictions were lifted on June 24, more than 300 tourists visited the site. Even, large number of tourists from Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana who did not know about weekend restrictions had arrived in Hampi.

When the weekend restrictions were lifted finally in the first week of July, the number of tourists touched almost 2,000. Three foreign nationals also visited the site last weekend. Crowds seemed to be gathering at Virupaksha temple, Vittala temple, Lotus Mahal, queen's bath and Mahanavami Dibba.

Hampi had remained closed for more than two months following more Covid-19 cases in Bellary and Vijayanagara districts.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Johannesburg, July 15 : Authorities in South Africa's Kouga municipalitysaid the beach area in Jeffreys Bay has been partly closed after a surfer was attacked by a shark.

The surfer, from Cape Town, is stable and being attended to by medical staff, the municipality said on its official Facebook page on Wednesday, adding that the victim had been bitten twice, reports Xinhua news agency.

The man aged 40 was attacked while surfing at Jeffreys Bay and suffered puncture wounds to his right leg and torso, Sea Rescue South Africa (NSRI) said in a statement.

The charity, which has rescue bases along the coast, appealed to surfers, bathers and paddlers to be cautious around the Jeffreys Bay coastline.

Jeffreys Bay, located in Eastern Cape Province, is a world-famous surfing spot.

In 2015, Australian surfing legend Mick Fanning managed to escape unharmed by fighting off a great white shark during a surfing contest at Jeffreys Bay.

The incident was broadcast live on television and made headlines around the world.
Washington, July 15 : US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry and Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted the importance of cooperation on climate issues during a phone call, the State Department said.

During the call on Wednesday, Kerry emphasised that the US and Russia have "important roles to play, including on reducing greenhouse gas emissions in this critical decade, aiming for net-zero emissions in the long term, eliminating emissions from coal, and working to address Arctic-related climate issues under Russia's chairmanship of the Arctic Council", the Department said in a statement.

It said that Putin "concurred about the need to redouble international climate efforts and affirmed Russia's intention to address its own emissions, including in the forest sector, among other actions".

Kerry and Putin also recognised recent extreme weather events and other climate impacts, as well as the urgency to act, the Department noted.

They also affirmed the importance of working toward a successful COP 26 in Glasgow, UK, slated to take place between October 31 and November 12.

The Kremlin press service said Putin stressed that Russia "places great importance on achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement and calls for a depoliticised and professional dialogue in the field".

On Monday, Kerry arrived in Moscow for a three-day visit.
Geneva, July 15 : The Delta Covid-19 variant has so far been identified in 111 countries, territories or areas, and is on the way to becoming the dominant strain of the virus worldwide, causing an increase in new infections and deaths, the World Health Organization (WHO) said .

Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Ecuador are among the 15 countries that reported their first cases of the highly infectious variant in the past week, the WHO said in statement issued on Wednesday.

It warned that the Delta strain is likely to spread to more countries and that it is likely to become the dominant form of Covid-19 "in the coming months", Xinhua news agency reported.

According to WHO figures, Covid-19 cases have jumped in the past week worldwide.

The statement was released two days after the WHO's Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned of the "devastating outbreaks" caused by the Delta variant, saying that the new strain of the virus was infecting people "at a scorching pace".

Leaders around the world have responded to the new rise in infections in markedly different ways, with countries such as France adopting new restrictions while others easing them.

The UK, for one, still intends to lift all restrictions on July 19.

The overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 188.2 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 4.05 million and vaccinations soared to over 3.49 billion, according to the Johns Hopkins University.

In its latest update on Thursday morning, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload, death toll and the total number of vaccine doses administered stood at 188,284,090, 4,057,061 and 3,496,851,294, respectively.

The US continues to be the worst-hit country with the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 33,946,217 and 608,104, respectively, according to the CSSE.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Bengaluru, July 15 : In a major crackdown on drug mafia involving foreign nationals staying in Bengaluru, City Crime Branch (CCB) sleuths conducted raids on the houses of foreigners staying in different localities of the city on Thursday.

CCB Joint Commissioner Sandeep Patil explained, "As many as 7 foreign nationals are found to be overstaying and two were found with Ganja. At least 90 ecstasy tablets were seized from a Nigerian national. So far, 38 people were found without valid documents." Teams of 6 ACPs, 20 Inspectors and 100 police officers are carrying out raids on houses where foreign nationals are staying to check on overstaying and staying without documents. The raids and search operations are still going on, Sandeep Patil said.

The Bengaluru police department had taken the issue of drug cartels operating in the city involving foreigners. Recently, the department had warned that house owners should verify documents of foreigners before giving their properties on rent.

The police have also booked cases on owners for not having any information on foreign nationals who sold drugs from their rented premises. The department has also started to make local owners accused in the drug cases. Earlier, they were only issued notices.
New Delhi, July 15: Chinas banks are under stress with rising levels of bad assets. As the Covid 19 pandemic hit world economy, which led to delay in many projects, the countrys lenders could see a further rise in their non performing assets -- loans that do not fetch any returns.

Earlier, a report by South China Morning Post, quoting government data, noted that Chinese banks had a record high of $466.9 billion in NPA.

According to the news organisation chairman of China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission Guo Shuqing warned of a further rise in bad loans this year.

A large chunk of financing towards President Xi Jinping's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been undertaken by the state owned banks of China along with local governments.

In fact, as uncertainty over returns from the BRI arose amid the Covid 19-induced economic crisis, China's lending towards the multi-trillion infrastructure project has been reducing over the last couple of years.

That apart, the trade war with the US also impacted the regional banks as the going got tough for many small to mid sized exporters.

"Financial dealings of Chinese banks and state owned enterprises are opaque, making it very difficult to assess the actual situation. Most of the BRI lending is done by these enterprises and not directly by the government," DK Srivastava, EY India's chief political adviser told India Narrative.

"NPA for most of them has risen due to the pandemic. This has been reflected in the lending pattern as well," he said.

Another analyst pointed out that China's lending decisions have been driven more by political reasons than economic.

"This is one of the major problems for China today. As many countries default on BRI and other loans, worries for Beijing multiply," the analyst said.

A study by the Center for Strategic and International Studies in noted that "Chinese loans violate several international lending best practices involving procurement, transparency, and dispute settlement." It also said that while Chinese contractors dominate the BRI linked infrastructure projects, "the Chinese-funded loans are less transparent than those from multilateral development banks," leaving many countries with unsustainable debt.

That apart, another cause for concern, as many economists have pointed out is that China's economy has been expenditure-driven rather than consumption.

"This means that China's banks and other state owned enterprises have been more at work. If consumption does not pick up, it is a cause for worry," one of them said.

In fact Spanish economist Daniel Lacalle in his blog, last year, said that China's is a "planned GDP" and that the growth is not demand driven but is pushed by a tactfully expanded government expenditure.

"A planned GDP. The GDP of China is dictated by production, not demand. It is not an observed GDP, but rather planned by the government together with the provinces. For this reason, many analysts scrutinize the data and deduct various factors, including the increase and valuation of inventories," Lacalle pointed out in his blog.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
Johannesburg, July 15 : South Africa's Minister of Defence Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula said the government has planned to deploy about 25,000 soldiers to deal with the ongoing unrest in the country.

"We have now submitted a request for deployment of plus-minus 25,000 members," Mapisa-Nqakula on Wednesday virtually briefed the Joint Standing Committee on Defence of Parliament, which is a significant increase from the initially proposed 2,500 members and then 10,000 members.

"We will start with the 25,000," she said, adding that currently there are no less than 1,000 members in KwaZulu-Natal Province, where the unrest started, including 800 in the port city Durban, Xinhua news agency reported.

The government is also trying to ensure the military visibility of vehicles and helicopter patrols, she added.

The Minister added that she will leave for KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday.

The ongoing unrest mainly in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal provinces in the country's eastern part, triggered by the imprisonment of former President Jacob Zuma, has claimed at least 26 lives in KwaZulu-Natal alone.

Hundreds of shops and businesses were looted during the initially political motivated protest, with roads being blocked, properties and vehicles damaged and burned.

Zuma, who was sentenced to 15 months in prison after being convicted of defying the Constitutional Court's order which compelled him to appear and give evidence at the State Capture Commission in February, has challenged the sentence.

A judgment is expected to be announced on a later date.
New Delhi, July 15 : Underlining the importance of skills in the Indian culture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday exhorted the stakeholders to continuously "skill, reskill and upskill" to achieve 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) goal, and that India providing smart and skilled manpower solutions to the world should be at the core of strategy of skilling our youth.

He said skill development of the new generation is a national need and is the foundation of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' to take India forward from 75 years to 100 years.

Taking note of huge demand for reskilling due to fast changing technology, the Prime Minister emphasised that there is need to expedite it, recalling how "our skilled workforce helped us in fighting an effective battle against the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic".

While speaking on the occasion of the World Youth Skill Day, the Prime Minister called for giving momentum to the Skill India Mission by capitalising on the gains of the last six years.

Modi further stressed the link between the importance given to skill development and 'upskilling' and progress of the society.

He dwelled on the traditions of celebrating skills like Vijayadashmi, Akshya Tritiya and Vishvakarma Puja where skills and the vocational implements are worshipped. Citing these traditions, the Prime Minister called for due regard for skilled professions like carpenters, potters, metal workers, sanitation workers, horticulture workers and weavers.

The Prime Minister noted that due to long periods of slavery, importance of skills in our social and education system got diluted.

The Prime Minister pointed out that while education tells us what to do, skill guides us in the actual operational implementation, and this has been the guiding principle of Skill India Mission. He expressed happiness that more than 1.25 crore young persons have been trained under 'Pradhanmantri Kaushal Vikas Yojna'.

Stressing the need for skills in everyday life, the Prime Minister said that learning should not stop with earning. "Only a skilled person will grow in today's world. This is applicable to both people and countries." The Prime Minister also referred to the vision of Babasaheb Ambedkar, saying "he placed great emphasis on skilling the weaker section".

Modi said that the nation is fulfilling this visionary dream of Babasaheb through the Skill India Mission.

For example, he said, programs like 'Going Online As Leaders' (GOAL) are helping the tribal population with areas like art and culture, handicraft, textiles and digital literacy among tribal areas leading to entrepreneurship development among the tribal population. Similarly, Van Dhan Yojna is effectively connecting the tribal society with new opportunities.

"In the coming days, we need to make such campaigns more widespread and make ourselves and the country Aatmanirbhar through skilling," concluded the Prime Minister.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Mumbai, July 15 : The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has accused the Centre of trying "to suppress the voice of the people" by targeting the international communications platform, Twitter, here on Thursday.

Referring to the revelations made by the global media giant in its latest transparency report, NCP National Spokesperson and Minister Nawab Malik flayed the Central government for its alleged attempts to harass Twitter by seeking information from it almost n a daily basis.

"Twitter is a platform where the common people can air their views in a transparent manner. Even in India it is being used in a big way for the public to voice their opinions freely and fearlessly, as it gives them an outlet to highlight injustice," said Malik.

"However, the government of India is scared that it is unable to snatch the freedom of people to speak up because of Twitter. In this country, many things are controlled, there is no platform for people to raise their voice. Twitter is revealing the truth, so the government is harassing it in such a manner," added Malik.

The NCP leader pointed out that if there are fake posts, messages or videos, many laws in the country, including the Information Technology Act, can be invoked to handle them, book them and take action against those indulging in such activities.

His comments came in the wake of Twitter's recent transparency disclosures, claiming that 25 per cent of all requests pertaining to accounts' information originate from India, which is the highest in the world, overtaking the USA which is now relegated to the second slot.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Kolkata, July 15 : With only three months to go the organisers of different Durga puja committees in West Bengal are gearing up to celebrate the yearly bonanza of the Bengalis maintaining all the Covid safety protocols.

As a part of this, Durga Puja committees in Kolkata have decided to vaccinate all those who are involved in the rituals and other related works in the next three months.

"From our members and locals frequenting the pandals to artisans, priests, dhakis and electricians -- everyone will have to get COVID vaccines in the next three months," Forum for Durgotsab official Partha Ghosh said. The puja committees will also make certain that people visiting the pandals wear masks covering the nose and mouth and maintain social distancing.

"We expect everyone to get both doses, but for dhakis (traditional drummers) coming from villages two-three days before the puja. As we don't have a control over their vaccination, we cannot assure anything but we will try to ensure that they get at least one dose," Ghosh added. Forum for Durgotsab, an umbrella organisation of 550 community Durga Pujas in Kolkata and neighbouring areas, also published guidelines to ensure that the festivities are held following COVID-safety protocols.

Last year the state government had imposed restrictions on the celebration of Durga Puja disallowing crowds inside the pandals. Puja organisers are well aware that the state government might impose similar restrictions considering the imminent threat of the third wave of the coronavirus, are making all preparations to celebrate the pujas maintaining all the safety Covid protocols.

The pandals have to be built in such a way that devotees can see the idols from a distance and need not come near, as per the guidelines, which will be submitted to the government, and are similar to the ones set by the Calcutta High Court last year as it banned the entry of people to the pandals.

"The challenge for every crowd-puller puja committee like ours will be how to strike a balance so that the pandals are built maintaining aesthetics while the idols can be seen from a distance," Ghosh, who is also a member of the Shibmandir Durga Puja committee - one of the major pujas in south Kolkata said.

The Durga Puja committees in the city are also focussing on digital presence to ensure that people can view the artworks from home. "We will project the idol and the decorations in such a way on social media that people may not feel the urge to come to the pandal," said another official of a Durga Puja committee in north Kolkata.

Several big-budget Durga Puja committees, including Sribhumi Sporting Club in Lake Town, Santoshpur Lake Pally, Hindustan Club and Shib Mandir, held the 'Khuti Puja' on Ratha Jatra. The ritual of 'Khuti Puja' or worshipping a pole marks the beginning of the building of pandals. The festivities will begin this year on October 12 with Maha Saptami and go on till October 15 -- Vijaya Dashami.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Karwar : , July 15 (IANS) A jilted lover who unleashed horror on his former girlfriend, has been nabbed from Pune, Karnataka police said on Thursday.

The accused has been identified as Tushar Marathe, a native of Pune.

According to the Gokarna police who are investigating the case, the accused had allegedly tried to strangulate her with a hair drier wire and pierced a pen into her eye.

The victim, who was found in an unconscious state in a Gokarna hotel on June 7, was shifted to a hospital and she is said to be recovering. Tushar had collected information about her visit to Gokarna beach with her friends from her Instagram posts.

He had come to Gokarna and booked a room located next to the room where the victim stayed. He had observed her movements with friends. When she was alone in the room as her friends had gone for dinner, he attacked the victim.

Tushar after gaining entry into the room, attacked her with a pen on her face and eye. He had pierced a pen into her eye. He tried to strangle her with hair dryer wire and later with a pillow. When the lady became unconscious, he had left thinking that she had died, police officials said.

The case was taken up seriously by the Karwar SP Shiva Prakash Devaraju and special teams were formed to nab the culprit. The police say that, accused Tushar had tonsured his head to hide his identity. The victim who worked in an MNC firm in Bengaluru had broken up with the accused.

The investigation is on.
Thiruvananthapuram, July 15 : Winds of change are blowing through the Kerala media houses where hectic chopping and churning is happening in leading TV channels.

It all began last month when the head of Media One TV channel, Rajiv Devaraj decided to quit.

Soon came the news that the head of the Mathrubhumi TV channel -- Unni Balakrishnan is quitting and his place was being taken by Devaraj.

Devaraj had earlier headed News18 and when he left to join Media One, his place was taken by Pradeep Pillai, who had earlier worked at Malayala Manorama, New Indian Express, Times Now at lower levels. Pillai now heads News18.

When all this was happening Pramod who was anchoring a few prime programmes at the MMTV (Malayala Manorama group) put in his papers and was heading to take over from Devaraj at Media One.

Even as that change sunk in, came the news that Manoj K. Das, the chief at the Mathrubhumi news paper (the second largest circulated Malayalam daily) has stepped down and might be heading to lead TV channel -- Asianet.

The 'young' Das has already headed newspapers like New Indian Express, Deccan Chronicle, Times of India and Mathrubhumi. He earlier had one stint at Asianet TV at a junior post.

On Thursday, Das becoming the group head of Asianet was confirmed, with M.G.Radhakrishnan putting in his papers as present head at Asianet TV.

A top media critic on condition of anonymity said this merry go round is not a recent phenomenon and it happens at intervals.

"Kerala has around a dozen TV channels and in the past two decades, this merry go round has happened at repeated intervals. Why this happens is because the advertisement pie for Kerala TV channels is very limited and owners of TV channels feels the pinch, when ratings drop and they need to find scapegoats and it's the chief who will have to face the music. Very rarely does a chief gets booted out for 'political' reasons," said the critic.

All over changes in the organisation with new bosses was expected.
Lucknow, July 15 : The Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh plans to reduce by half, the infant mortality rate over the next 10 years.

Provisions have been made for ensuring health services for all, with special attention to pregnant women, infants, sick newborns and children who are severely malnourished.

According to the government spokesman, the new policy has set a target of reducing the neonatal mortality rate of infants that takes place within 28 days of their birth from 32 to 22 by 2026 and to 12 by 2030.

Along with this, a target has also been set to bring down the under-five mortality from 47 to 35 by the year 2026 and to 25 by the year 2030.

According to the 2015-2016 report of National Family Health Survey-4, out of every thousand children born in the state, 52 newborns died in urban areas and 67 in rural areas, whereas, 62 children died in urban areas and 82 in rural areas per thousand children under the age of five years.

In last four years, the state government made significant efforts in reducing the birth rate, maternal mortality rate and infant mortality rate, however, it is still less than the national average.

In 2016, the fertility rate in UP was 3.3, while the national average was 2.6. As a result of the sustained efforts of the Uttar Pradesh government, today the fertility rate in the state stands at 2.7, while the national average is 2.3.

Maternal mortality rate is 197 today compared to 258 in 2016, whereas the national average is 113.

Ved Prakash, General Manager, National Health Mission, UP, informed that the situation in the year 2018 has improved a lot as compared to back in 2008.

In the year 2008, where 45 deaths per thousand newborns took place, it has come down to 32 in the year 2018, while in the below five years age group, it has come down by three times in the year 2018 as compared to 2008.

He further said that continuous and determined efforts have been made to reduce the infant mortality rate and Special New-born Care Units and Nutrition Rehabilitation Center (NRC) Units have been established state-wide.

Through the new population policy, the health services especially for women, children and adolescents will further be improved and expanded extensively across the state.
New Delhi, July 15 : The Supreme Court on Thursday wondered, is it in public interest to damage the sanctum sanctorum of democracy and justify to claim that House is supreme authority on the matter. The top court made this observation during the hearing of the Kerala government's plea seeking court's nod to withdraw cases against CPI(M) leaders, including education minister V. Sivankutty, for vandalism in the state Assembly in 2015, when the current ruling party was in the Opposition.

The Kerala government submitted before a bench comprising justices D.Y. Chandrachud and M.R. Shah that the House has the prerogative to take action against MLAs for creating a ruckus in the Assembly in 2015. Justice Chandrachud asked senior advocate Ranjit Kumar, representing the Kerala government, "Suppose an MLA whips out a revolver in the Assembly and also empties his revolver. Can you say House is supreme on this?" The bench clarified it is not possible to carry a weapon inside the Assembly, but it cited this example to carefully examine the issue before the court.

Justice Chandrachud further asked the Kerala government, was it in public interest or in service of public justice to seek withdrawal of prosecution against the MLAs, who have damaged the sanctum-sanctorum of democracy? He reiterated, is it justified? Citing the heated arguments between lawyers, often witnessed in the Supreme Court, Justice Chandrachud said: "look at the courts. Tempers are lost, lawyers opposing each other in court. Would that justify, if court property is damaged?" The top court will continue to hear matter after lunch.

On July 5, the top court had said the unruly behaviour of law makers in Parliament and Assembly cannot be condoned and they should face trail for destroying public property inside the House.

The Kerala government has cited privileges and immunity to MLAs and urged the top court to drop cases against the Left leaders.

The Kerala High Court, in an order passed on March 12, had refused to give its nod saying that the elected representatives are expected to uphold prestige of the House or face consequences. The MLAs had vandalised Speaker's dais, uprooted his chair, pulled out mike system, computer etc. The special leave petition filed by the state government said: "When Article 105(3), 194(3) of the Constitution of India confers certain privileges and immunities to the members of the Parliament and State Legislature, is it proper to the Secretary of Legislative Assembly to file cases against the MLAs with regard to an incident happened on the floor of the House during the protest made by the opposition members, that too without the consent of the Speaker of the Assembly?"
Los Angeles, July 15 : The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has voted to draft an apology for the historical mistreatment of Native Americans in the most populous US county, local media reported.

The motion highlighted the disproportionate health and economic burdens faced by the Gabrieleno Tongva, Fernandeno Tataviam, Ventureno Chumash, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Kizh and other local tribes as a result of discrimination, Xinhua news agency quoted a report by the local Pasadena Now news website as saying on Wednesday.

The motion also called for an update on the ongoing work to identify county policies, procedures and practices that may have harmed California Native Americans, said the report.

Hilda L. Solis, chair of the board, released a statement, noting that telling the truth is the first step to address systemic and historical wrongs.

"Los Angeles County must acknowledge and apologise for its role in the displacement and maltreatment of Native people," Solis said.

"In order to truly heal and move forward together, we must start by telling the truth. The First Peoples of this land faced violence, exploitation, and dispossession at the hands of many government entities, including actions sanctioned or directly carried out by Los Angeles County." Solis said the county would work together with local tribal leaders to develop a public statement that "acknowledges, corrects and disseminates the true historical record of the county's relationship with Native people".

Supervisor Janice Hahn, who co-authored the motion, was also quoted by the report as saying that an apology would be just a first step.

"The crimes and atrocities committed against the Native American people here in LA County, in California and across the country are a dark stain on our nation's history," Hahn said.

"An apology is quite literally the least we can do -- but it is an important step to begin to heal the wounds of the past." Los Angeles is home to more Native Americans/Alaska Natives than any other county in the US.
Chennai, July 15 : Tamil Nadu Water Resources Minister and Senior leader of the DMK, S. Duraimurugan will lead the all-party delegation to New Delhi to meet Union Jal Shakti Minister, Gajendra Singh Shekawat.

The delegation is to apprise the minister of the dangers involved in the construction of the Mekedatu dam across Cauvery river by the Karnataka Government. It is to be noted that Mekedatu dam has been a burning issue in Tamil Nadu for the past few months.

All political parties of Tamil Nadu including the BJP and the AIADMK are participating in the delegation to meet the union minister. The AIADMK leader and former minister D. Jayakumar has already said that the party has given full support to the chief minister in passing a resolution against the construction of the Mekedatu dam across Cauvery river.

The team is expected to hand over a copy of the resolution passed at the all-party meeting held on July 12 against the construction of the Mekedatu dam. The resolution had urged the Union government not to grant any permission to the proposal of Karnataka to construct a dam on the Cauvery river.

The political parties of Tamil Nadu in the all-party meeting said that the Supreme Court had earlier banned construction activities in Cauvery river without permission from the downstream states.

The all party delegation is expected to meet the Union Jal Sakti Minister on Friday at his office. While some members of the delegation will leave for New Delhi on Thursday, the rest will leave on Friday morning, according to the Tamil Nadu General Administration Department and the office of the Water Resources Minister.

The team will be camping at Tamil Nadu Bhavan in New Delhi, according to an official press release.
Bengaluru, July 15 : A DNA report in a sensational child-lifting case involving a Bengaluru-based woman psychiatrist, has confirmed that the couple who had lodged a complaint in this regard are the biological parents of the baby.

The Basavanagudi police, who are investigating the case are preparing to approach the court for handing over the baby to the original parents. The baby is presently with a couple from Koppal.

Accused Dr Rashmi Shashi Kumar (34), a psychiatrist after taking Rs 14.5 lakh from the Koppal couple, falsely promised them that she had found a surrogate mother to give birth to their child. She had also told them that the delivery would happen in the month of May 2020.

The accused stole the newborn from a government-run BBMP hospital on May 29, 2020.

A complaint was registered at the Basavanagudi police station by the parents and the accused psychiatrist was tracked and arrested on May 31 this year.

After obtaining consent from the court, both complainant and the Koppal couple along with the baby were subjected to a DNA test.

The police have informed about these developments to the Koppal couple and the child will be handed over to the original parents in accordance with the law.
Panaji, July 15 : Goa Governor P.S. Sreedharan Pillai on Thursday said that he wants to establish a heart-to-heart relationship with the people of Goa, soon after he was sworn-in to office at a former ceremony at Raj Bhavan.

In a brief interaction with mediapersons, Pillai, who has been transferred to Goa from Mizoram however refused to comment on various civil society agitations going on in the state.

"Protocol of course is there, but above protocol I want to have a heart to heart relationship with everybody including the press," Pillai told reporters.

He also said that India could take some lessons from Goa, as far as the spirit of unity in the state is concerned.

"The entire India, of course, can study many things from the history, as well as the unity of the people (of Goa). As far as legal justice is concerned, it is an exceptionally important state," Pillai said.

"Further, we could see the unity among the people. There are no communal riots as such and the people are co-operative with each other and have a very good relationship. Culturally also, Goa is at the forefront of South India," Pillai said.

When asked if he would be vocal about the various social agitations going on in the state, like his predecessor Satya Pal Malik, Pillai said: "For the time-being silence is golden".

Goa had been without a full fledged Governor for nearly a year now, after the sudden transfer of Malik in August 2020, following his criticism of the Chief Minister Pramod Sawant-led government's handling of the Covid crisis. Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari had been holding charge of the state since the departure of Malik.
Islamabad, July 15 : Two Pakistani security personnel were killed during an improvised explosive device explosion in Balochistan province, an army statement said on Thursday.

The Army launched a search operation following the incident to apprehend the perpetrators, the military's media wing Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in the statement.

"Such cowardly acts by inimical elements, backed by hostile intelligence agencies cannot sabotage the hard-earned peace and prosperity in Balochistan," xinhua news agency quoted the statement as saying.

A spike in terrorist incidents targeting security forces has recently been witnessed in the country.

On Tuesday, two security personnel including an officer, and three terrorists were killed in a clash in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

On June 25, the ISPR said that five soldiers from paramilitary troops were killed after terrorists targeted a patrol party in Balochistan's Sibi district.
Varanasi, July 15 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday inaugurated 'Rudraksha', an International Cooperation and Convention Centre that offers a glimpse of the cultural richness of the ancient city of Kashi.

Constructed with Japanese assistance, the state-of-the-art centre will make Varanasi an attractive destination for conferences, thus drawing more tourists and business community to the city.

Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that 'Rudraksha' was an amalgam of Kashi's ancient heritage as well as its modern outlook.

He said that the project was also a symbol of Indo-Japanese friendship that has stood the test of time.

The Prime Minister said that Varanasi needed a convention centre with modern amenities in view of its cultural and economic importance.

"Kavi sammelans that are a part of Kashi's culture can be held here," he said.

Meanwhile, as many as 108 Rudraksha have been installed at the convention centre and its roof is shaped like a Shivaling.

Officials further said that the entire building will glow with LED lights at night and will be an environment-friendly building, fit for level 3 of Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA).

The two-storied convention centre has been built in Sigra area on 2.87 hectares of land and has a seating capacity of 1,200 people.

The officials said the project aims to provide opportunities for social and cultural interactions between people at the international convention centre in Varanasi. This is expected to strengthen the city's competitiveness by developing its tourism sector.

It is ideal for holding international conferences, exhibitions and music concerts and other events and the gallery is done up with murals depicting Varanasi's art, culture and music, officials said.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency-assisted Varanasi International Cooperation and Convention Centre's (VCC) main hall can be partitioned into smaller spaces when needed.

The VCC will be equipped with adequate security and safety systems. It will have a regular entrance, a service entrance and a separate VIP entrance, making it an ideal destination for holding all types of international events.
Dhaka, July 15 : A hunt is underway for Mahmudul Hasan Gunbi, the top leader of 'Dawatul Islam', an Al Qaeda-linked militant outfit in Bangladesh.

According to authorities, Dawatul Islam follow the 'Manhaji' school of thought of the Hefazat-e-Islam and Ansar al-Islam militant outfits.

While Gunbi is still on the run, Dawatul Islam's two other leaders Harun Izhar and Ali Hasan Osama have been arrested.

Earlier, Maulana Nazimuddin, who was the 'emir' of the organisation, was arrested more than once on charges of involvement in militancy.

A case was filed against Gunbi for planning an attack on the parliament building.

Harun Izhar is the son of Mufti Izharul Islam, one of the founders of Hefazat-e-Islam.

Mufti Izhar has published a book on the slain Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden, in which he claims to have met the latter while working for the terror group in Kabul for more than three years.

Dawatul Islam has set up two militant hideouts at Lama and Khagrachari in Bandarban district.

There are more than 50 militant leaders active in the hill tracts.

Gunbi's pictures with various leaders of Hefazat have been posted by the group on their social media accounts.

Authorities allege that Gunbi lures people in the hill tract areas under the garb of "inviting people to Islam", an official said on the condition of anonymity, adding that innocent youngsters fall prey to the militants' fake identity.

Senior officials of the detective branch told IANS that Gunbi, known for his extremist views, is also the incumbent spiritual leader of Ansar al-Islam.
Jaipur, July 15 : After BJP-ruled states namely Uttar Pradesh and Assam proposed to introduce population control laws, Congress-ruled Rajasthan's Health Minister Raghu Sharma also backed the policy saying it is time the country should think on one-child norm.

Speaking on his views on the UP government's population control draft bill, Raghu Sharma said the country needs to think on the slogan, "Hum Do, Hamare Ek" (one child per family) now.

He said that the growing population was a matter of concern and hence we need to think how to control population to ensure coming generations get better facilities.

Another state minister Pratap Singh Khachriya also raised a demand for bringing in population control policy saying, "Indira Gandhi brought in the slogan of 'Hum Do Hamare Do' years back. At that time, the RSS and Jan Sangh protested against the same and made it an election issue. Now it's the time when the BJP should stop politicising the issue and follow the footsteps of Indira Gandhi on this issue," he added.

Also, another Congress MLA in Rajasthan, Bharat Singh wrote a letter to chief minister Ashok Gehlot demanding a strict law for population control in the state.

Meanwhile, BJP deputy leader of opposition Rajendra Rathore welcomed the statement of Sharma and said that a bill on population control should be introduced in the upcoming monsoon session. Hope he doesn't take a U-turn from his statement, he added.
New Delhi, July 15 : The phased lifting of state-wise restrictions has ushered in a recovery in the economic momentum.

However, the performance of most high frequency indicators in June 2021 remained below the pre-Covid levels of June 2019, as well as April 2021.

According to Aditi Nayar, Chief Economist, ICRA: "With the normalisation of the base related to the unlocking after last year's stringent nationwide lockdown, the year-on-year (YoY) performance of 13 of the 15 high frequency indicators expectedly flattened in June 2021, relative to May 2021." "More importantly, several indicators recorded a sequential improvement in June 2021, as the states started lifting restrictions with the subsiding of the second wave of Covid-19. While this confirms that a revival has set in, volumes for most non-financial indicators in June 2021 were weaker than the levels in both April 2021 and June 2019, suggesting that the recovery is incomplete." As per the ratings agency, the momentum improved on a sequential basis for 10 of the 13 non-financial monthly indicators during June 2021.

Discouragingly, volumes in June 2021 trailed the June 2019 level for eight of the 13 non-financial indicators, and were weaker than April 2021 for nine indicators, highlighting that while a recovery has undoubtedly set in, it remains incomplete.

ICRA noted that diesel consumption stood out as the only indicator recording a contraction in YoY terms in June 2021, which reflects some shift of freight to the Railways amidst all-time high diesel prices, and tariff and non-tariff measures taken by the Indian Railways in August 2020 to boost the operations and improve efficiency.

"Given the further relaxation by many states in the ongoing month, we expect volumes to improve in sequential terms in July 2021. Encouragingly, the daily average generation of GST e-way bills has risen to 1.9 million in the first 11 days of July 2021 from the 1.8 million reported in the month of June 2021," Nair added.

"Moreover, the electricity demand data released by 'POSOCO' reveals that the pace of YoY growth rose considerably to 17.7 per cent in July 1-13, 2021 from 8.4 per cent in June 2021. However, this coincided with a lull in the rains, and its sustenance at such a high-level remains uncertain."
Wellington, July 15 : Quarantine free travel between New Zealand and Australia's Victoria state will be suspended from Friday, a Minister announced here on Thursday.

In a statement, Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins said the decision followed updated public health advice from New Zealand officials and a growing number of cases and locations of interest, Xinhua news agency.

The suspension will last for at least four days and be subject to further review on July 19, he said.

"As with previous pauses, we acknowledge the frustration and inconvenience that comes with any interruption to Trans-Tasman travel, but given the ongoing level of uncertainty around transmission in Melbourne, this is the right action to take," the Minister said.

The suspension means anyone who has been in Victoria after 1.59 a.m. on Friday cannot travel to New Zealand from any state in Australia until further notice, he said.

Quarantine free travel from Australia's New South Wales state remains paused and managed return flights are still in place meaning travellers will have to go into managed isolation for 14 days after arriving in New Zealand, Hipkins said.
Hyderabad, July 15 : A couple from Hyderabad looking to sell their kidneys to pay off huge debts, was duped of Rs 40 lakh by an international gang of Cyber fraudsters, police said.

The fraudsters, promising to pay Rs 5 crore for organ sale, lured the couple into depositing Rs 40 lakh into their bank accounts towards various charges.

M. Venkatesh and Lavnya, residents of Khairtabad area in the city, approached cybercrime police station two days ago after they realized they had been cheated.

The couple, running a stationery and bangles shop, had taken bank loan for construction of a four-storied building. As the business was affected by Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown, their debts mounted to Rs 1.5 crore.

With no option but to borrow from any other source and pressure mounting from financial institutions to repay the debts, the couple decided to sell their kidneys to clear the debts.

According to Assistant Commissioner of Police K.V.M. Prasad, the couple started looking for prospective buyers on the Internet.

In March, they found the contact number of a person posing as an employee at a UK hospital and sent him a message. The fraudster offered Rs 5 crore but made the couple believe that they have to first pay charges to complete the entire process.

Believing him, the couple deposited Rs 10 lakh in his bank account towards registration charges, processing fee, currency exchange charges, visa fee and insurance.

When he demanded more money, they contacted another person and transferred Rs 12 lakh to his account. They also approached two other persons over the Internet.

One of them promised that on payment of registration half of the price for their kidneys will be paid to them as advance amount. He asked them to meet his representative at a lodge in Bengaluru to collect the advance amount.

Trusting him, they went to Bengaluru and met the agent. Here they encountered even bigger hocus-pocus. The agent gave them black papers, saying they are currency notes of Rs 2,000.

When the couple grew suspicious, he took out an unknown chemical and turned a few papers into currency notes and made them believe that this was done to maintain secrecy.

He gave them an entire lot of black papers with the chemical and asked them to use the chemical after 48 hours. He also made them to transfer another Rs 14 lakh to his account.

The couple later found that the chemical was not turning the black papers into currency notes. They realized they have been cheated.

As the person they were in touch with to sell their kidneys also did not respond to their calls, they lodged a complaint with the cybercrime police.

The couple told police that they arranged the money from private lenders by keeping their gold jewellery as collateral.
Amaravati, July 15 : Rajya Sabha member V. Vijayasai Reddy on Thursday reiterated that the Andhra Pradesh government opposed the privatisation of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP), and said the party MPs will vehemently take up the issue during the upcoming Parliament Session.

"We will join forces with labour unions to save VSP and intensify our struggle. We will take on board leaders from other parties as well and stall the Parliament sessions," said Reddy.

On Thursday, Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy held a meeting with the ruling Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) Parliamentarians and deliberated on various issues.

Following the completion of more than 150 days of protests for saving the steel plant, VSP labour union leaders are contemplating to take their protests to Delhi.

Similarly, he said the ruling party MPs will take up the water dispute issue between the Telugu states in the forthcoming Parliament sessions for protecting the interests of Andhra Pradesh.

He said AP will demand the deployment of Central forces at common reservoirs and the notification of KRMB.

The Parliamentarian lashed out at those people who were targeting the Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Scheme.

According to the MP, the YSRCP government has always sought special status for the southern state and reminded that Jagan Mohan Reddy demanded special status on multiple occasions when he met the Prime Minister and other senior leaders in Delhi.

He said there is no compromise with respect to the special category status and castigated former chief minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu for allegedly "getting sold away to suppress this demand and be content with a special package".
New Delhi, July 15 : Congress leader P. Chidambaram has attacked the newly appointed health minister Mansukh Mandaviya and said the new minister is on the path of his predecessor.

Chidambaram in a statement on Thursday said, "The new Health Minister is treading on the same path as his predecessor. That is sad." He said State after State is complaining of vaccine shortage. Vaccination centres have boards saying, "NO VACCINES". People standing in queues return home after vaccine doses are exhausted, he said.

"Are all state Health Ministers who have complained about vaccine shortage lying? Are newspaper and TV reports of people being turned away because there are no vaccine doses fake stories? "The conclusion is that between the Centre and the States, the people are being made to look like fools." he said.

Chidambaram was reacting to the new health minister's statement that there is no shortage of vaccines in the country.

Meanwhile, India's cumulative Covid-19 vaccination coverage has crossed the landmark of 39 crore that includes 34,97,058 shots administered across the country in the past 24 hours.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Dhaka, July 15 : India's investment in Bangladesh is huge and will increase exponentially due to "three reasons", a Dhaka-based leader business personality said.

In an interview with IANS, Abdul Matlub Ahmad, who is the President of the India-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IBCCI) and Chairman of Nitol-Niloy Group of Companies, said New Delhi is such a good friend of Dhaka which was once again proved by the resumption of urgent supply of oxygen from India through Benapole port.

He said Indian investors are keen on Bangladesh as "three important reasons are behind this".

"One of the three reasons is competitive labour cost in Bangladesh, which is one-third of Indian labour cost. Secondly, Indian investors get a huge market of 1.70 million people of Bangladesh-a fast rising middle class is prompting demand.

"And the third reason is, Bangladesh being a LDC country has duty free access to 39 countries of the world, including India.

"Any goods which is produced in Bangladesh can be declared 'made in Bangladesh' products provided they have 30 per cent value added in Bangladesh. Raw materials exported from India can also be exported to India be duty free if the required value add is made.

In addition to the huge Bangladeshi market, for any exports, the Indian investors are getting a good amount of export incentives and tax benefits from the Bangladesh government. This inspires the foreign investors to invest in Bangladesh," he said.

At the same time, Ahmad said that importing raw materials from India is the easiest, cost effective, fastest, as also safest for Bangladesh.

For goods movement during amid the Covid-19 pandemic between India and Bangladesh, both the friendly government agreed to uninterrupted movement goods through the various land, road and rail borders, he said, adding that this has helped Dhaka to avoid shortage of industrial raw materials, food items and vital products like oxygen.

Ahmad also envisaged huge Indian investments into the three SEZs reserved for the Indian investors.

"The future of Indo-Bangla trade and investment relationship shall rise to great levels. The golden era in investments has finally arrived."
Patna, July 15 : Amid the political debate over religious conversions in the country, a number of persons belonging to the Mahadalit community have converted to Christianity in Bihar's Gaya district in the last one month or so.

This happenned in Belwadih village under Naili Panchayat in the district. The residents of the village claimed that the conversions were taking place with their free will and no one had forced or lured them into adopting Christianity.

Raju Manjhi, a villager of Belwadih, said: "The situation in this village was normal. Then, people of our community started going for prayers to adjoining Wajidpur village. Now, they have adopted the Christian religion." "The conversion of Mahadalits (Hindu) to Christianity began from one Kewla Devi, whose son was ill for a long time and was unable to recover from his illness. Someone suggested that she take the help of Christian people for his treatment. Kewla Devi contacted them for her child's treatment. Soon after, her son recovered from his illness," Manjhi said.

"Kewla and her family immediately converted to Christianity. Soon many others of the same community followed her and converted to the Christian religion," Manjhi said.

Another villager Rajeshwar Manjhi said: "Being a Mahadalit, life in the village is extremely tough. Casteism still flourishes in the region. We are not allowed to go to some of the temples located in the adjoining villages." "Such a thing does not happen in a Church. It is a place where anyone can go and worship God," Rajeshwar Manjhi said.

He added that around 100 villagers have adopted Christianity and others will soon follow suit.

"Adopting the Christian religion is our own decision. No one has forced or lured us for the same," he said.
Kochi, July 15 : The Kerala High Court on Thursday told the State Government that the time has come for a policy decision to be made on opening of shops.

The court made this observation while hearing a petition from the organisation of Textiles sector stating that their members are in dire straight due to the lockdown and is finding it difficult to meet both ends and wanted to get back to opening of their establishments.

The court also pointed out that while people by and large are wearing masks, there are crowds being seen.

The court emphatically pointed out that it's high time that the the State government has to come out with a policy decision with regard to opening of shops and establishments and asked the government to file response.

For the past few days there has been all round resentment from various quarters in the manner in which the State government is coming out with guidelines for the lockdown as normal economic activity has come to a standstill and the sufferings of the common man have increased hugely.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's rude remark to a statement from the traders who said they will have no other way but to forcefully open their shops came under fire from various quarters.

Following preliminary talks, the traders withdrew their protest, after Vijayan decided to call a meeting on Friday.

The weekly cabinet meeting held in the state capital on Thursday failed to look into this matter, but with the high power meeting of top officials scheduled for Friday to be chaired by Vijayan, is expected to come out with more clarity on how best the lockdown norms can be eased.

Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan said on Thursday that the flawed restrictions in the name of the lockdown have destroyed all sectors.

"What's really baffling is Vijayan, after his election victory, is a different person. If one looks into it, there has been a different approach from him before and after the elections. The need of the hour is for a proper scientific approach to tackle Covid as the present set of norms has become counterproductive," said Satheesan.

Despite the state under lockdown, Kerala has been caught badly in the Covid pandemic and close to 23 per cent of the new daily Covid cases in the country are in Kerala and the active cases are over one lakh.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Hyderabad, July 15 : With the Indian Medical Association (IMA) warning that a third wave of Covid-19 pandemic is inevitable and imminent, leading hospitals in Hyderabad are gearing up to meet any challenge in the weeks and months ahead.

The IMA, while warning of a third wave on Monday, had appealed to the union and state governments to ensure people in the country do not let their guard down in the fight against this global pandemic. The top doctors' body expressed concern over the complacency being shown by the people and concerned authorities even though the country is yet to fully come out of a disastrous second wave.

Top executives of prominent hospitals told IANS the healthcare machinery in Hyderabad is well prepared to handle any possible crisis. Across all hospitals in Hyderabad, more than 5,000 are allocated for Covid-19 care, and managements are prepared to add more to this in case of an emergent situation.

Gaurav Khurana, CEO, Gleneagles Global Hospitals -- Lakdikapul, pointed out that due to a sudden spurt in tourism coupled with religious fervour, the country is witnessing mass gatherings, thus increasing the risks of spread of Covid-19 virus.

"Going by the past experiences and assessing the reasons for the second wave there is every possibility of a third wave hitting the Indian population sooner than later. The Indian Medical Association warning should not be ignored by people, healthcare machinery including hospitals, and regulatory authorities, and should be prepared to tackle the menace," he said.

"Ignorance is not a bliss when it comes to healthcare. And in these times when the world is reeling under the burden of a global pandemic, people must stay cautious of the potential risks and ensure proper care is taken. Hospitals and doctors are constantly standing guard to face any eventuality, and it is the responsibility of the people also to ensure they do not burden the healthcare machinery due to their ignorant behaviour.

"Avoiding unnecessary travel and following all safety protocols is mandatory until India emerges out of this pandemic fully," said D.V.S. Soma Raju, Executive Director, SLG Hospitals.

Commenting on super spreader events, Dr. Riyaz Khan, CEO, Continental Hospitals said India still has more than four lakh active Covid-19 cases needing care and is witnessing more than 700 deaths a day caused due to this deadly virus. "We are still in a dangerous spot, and every mass gathering irrespective of its size, is a potential super spreader event. Hence, it is important for people to stay indoors for a few weeks more and not venture out for unimportant reasons." Dr. Satwinder Singh Sabharwal, COO, Aware Gleneagles Global Hospitals, believes that vaccination is the only solution for India to emerge from the Covid-19 crisis. "More and more people must step forward and get two shots of vaccine to ensure we as a country come out of this pandemic that wrecked lives, families, and our economy.

"People travelling in hoards or indulging in mass gatherings without taking two doses of Covid-19 vaccine will only add to the disaster India has already witnessed. Now that vaccine is being made available easily, people must not delay taking it and must also encourage others to follow suit," he said.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Srinagar, July 15 : The army has undertaken an ambitious cleaning drive of the Gangabal Lake situated on the foothills of Harmukh peak in Jammu and Kashmirs Ganderbal district.

A statement issued by 34 Assam Rifles under headquarters 3 sector RR said that a cleaning campaign has been started on Thursday as part of the 'Jal Shakti Abhiyan' (Catch the Rain) along with the civil administration to educate the local population and tourists about the importance of keeping the Gangabal Lake and its surroundings clean.

"Gangabal Lake is situated on the foothills of Harmukh peak in Ganderbal district. It is an alpine high altitude oligotrophic lake which is home to many species of fish, including the brown trout, which was introduced by the British in 1902.

"The lake has been a major tourist attraction for many years and has been visited by national and international tourists. It is a major source of income for the tourist guides. Due to heavy influx of tourists, the area has been flooded with garbage and trash which pose a serious threat to the ecology of the area," the statement said.

It must be recalled that the Gangabal Lake is the holiest lake for the members of the Kashmiri Pandit community who have been carrying the ashes of their departed souls for immersion in the lake from even before the migration of the community from Kashmir in early 1990s.

The Naranag temple site also falls on the way to the Lake. Famous local historian and Sanskrit scholar Kulhana is believed to have written his historical magnum opus, the 'Rajatarangini' at the Naranag temples in the 12th century.
Bengaluru, July 15 : Karnataka's Bharatiya Janata Party government is all set to announce a loan waiver for the families of farmers who have lost their bread winner to Covid. As many as 10,187 farmers across the state have died from coronavirus.

The government has completed the process of identifying the beneficiaries. The loan amount is calculated at Rs 79.47 crores taken from banks and Agricultural Cooperative Societies.

A meeting will be held with the apex bank management to ensure smooth and quicker processing of the loan waiver. A special meeting has also been called on Saturday to formulate guidelines in this connection.

"The scheme is being implemented as the family which has lost their bread winner will be facing financial crisis and they won't be in a position to repay loans. A decision will be taken in three-four days," S T Somashekar, minister for cooperation, said.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Kolkata, July 15 : The residents of Kani township in Myanmar's Sagaing Division have paid a heavy price for resisting the entry of Burmese soldiers into the town last month.

The Kani defence force comprising citizens fought the troops with hunting rifles and catapults for four days before their activists fled to the neighbouring hills bordering Manipur and Nagaland.

Two soldiers were killed before the fighters ran out of bullets and fled into the hills.

One of their commanders, who calls himself U Ba Thien, told IANS that the Tatmadaw (Burmese army) rounded up 22 of the resistance fighters during relentless combing operations.

At least 16 residents may have been killed by the troops, Thien said.

He said they were lined up and shot dead in a forest near the Yin village and Kone Thar village in Kani township, Yinmarpin district, Sagaing Region.

Fourteen victims were from the Yin village, one from Minkin township and the other from another region.

Nothing is known of the whereabouts and fate of the others who were rounded up.

Many of the surviving family members are reluctant to mention the names of the dead to the media, fearing that the military junta will retaliate.

Civilian resistance groups have sprung up all over Myanmar and many have made news by their dogged resistance in townships like Mindat (Chin Hills) or Kani (Sagaing). Many soldiers and policemen have also joined hands with them.
New Delhi, July 15 : Microsoft continued to remain the most imitated brand for phishing attempts in the April-June quarter, as cyber criminals used the brand to steal individuals' personal information or payment credentials, researchers said on Thursday.

Forty-five percent of all brand phishing attempts were related to Microsoft in Q2 (up six points from Q1 2021).

Shipping company DHL maintained its position as the second-most impersonated brand, with 26 per cent of all phishing attempts related to it, as criminals continue to take advantage of the growing reliance on online shopping, according to Check Point Research (CPR), the threat intelligence arm of Check Point Software Technologies.

"Cybercriminals are continually increasing their attempts to steal peoples' personal data by impersonating leading brands. In fact, in the run up to Amazon Prime Day in Q2, more than 2,300 new domains were registered about Amazon," said Omer Dembinsky, Data Research Group Manager at Check Point Software.

Amazon was third on the list with 11 per cent phishing attempts in Q2.

"In Q2, we also witnessed a global surge in ransomware attacks which are often spread initially through phishing emails containing malicious attachments," Dembinsky added.

The tech sector is still the most likely industry to be targeted by brand phishing, followed by shipping and retail.

In Q1 2021, retail was interestingly overtaken in the list by banking, but it has now reclaimed its position in the top three possibly owing to the likes of the Amazon Prime Day sales, the researchers claimed.

In a brand phishing attack, criminals try to impersonate the official website of a well-known brand by using a similar domain name or URL and web-page design to the genuine site.

The link to the fake website can be sent to targeted individuals by email or text message, a user can be redirected during web browsing, or it may be triggered from a fraudulent mobile application.

The fake website often contains a form intended to steal users' credentials, payment details or other personal information, the report said.
Kolkata, July 15 : In its final report submitted to the Calcutta High Court, the National Human Rights Commission said that "The situation in the state of West Bengal is a manifestation of 'Law of Ruler', instead of 'Rule of Law'." The commission also made it clear that the violent incidents in the state reflect the appalling apathy of the state government towards the plight of victims.

In the 50-page report submitted to the court the NHRC said, "The spatio-temporal expanse of violent incidents in the state of West Bengal reflects the appalling apathy of the state government towards the plight of victims. This was retributive violence by supporters of the ruling party against supporters of the main opposition party. It resulted in disruption of life and livelihood of thousands of people and their economic strangulation. The local police has been grossly derelict, if not complicit, in this violence." "To compound the problem, violence and intimidation has continued. There is palpable fear among victims against Police and goons of the ruling party. Many displaced persons have not yet been able to return to their homes and resume their normal life and livelihood. There have been several sexual offences but victims are scared to speak out. Loss of faith in state administration among victims is very evident," the report mentioned.

Terming it to be a politico-bureaucratic-criminal nexus, the report alleged, "An alarming aspect of this violence amply figuring in public domain was that it evoked no empathy in state administration in any tangible manner. Neither senior officers nor political leaders condemned the violence, visited the spots, assuaged the victims or did anything substantive to ameliorate the problems. People were left on their own to protect the violation of their human and fundamental rights, including right to life, liberty, dignified living and health".

Tabling the facts in the form of a data sheet, the NHRC in its report said, "Out of 9,304 accused cited in the FIRs, only 1,354 (14 %) have been arrested and, out of these arrested, 80% are already on bail. Thus, overall speaking, less than 3% of the accused are in jail, while 97% are out in the open, making a mockery of the whole system." "It is quite evident that the police is working under influence and in a biased manner and do not have the courage to take action against looming goons belonging to the ruling dispensation. The I/Cs (Inspector-in-Charge) of police stations have not even visited the places of many of the violent incidents, nor collected any evidence or recorded statements, let alone registering FIRs," the report said.

The NHRC has recommended that grievous offences like murder, rape should be handed over to the CBI for investigation and that these cases should be tried outside the state. The other cases should be investigated by a court-monitored Special Investigation Team.

For adjudication, the NHRC has called for the setting up of fast-track courts, special public prosecutors and a witness protection programme.

The rights body also recommended ex-gratia payment, compensation for damage, measures for reinstatement and rehabilitation, static pickets of CAPF, protection to women, action against delinquent government servants, among others.

Reacting to the report, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said, "I respect the court and as it is sub-judice I will not make any comment on this but I would like to mention one thing. How did the report come into the public domain when it is still to be heard by the court? This shows what is happening".

"The report that has been submitted is all before the polls and at that time the administration was not controlled by the state government but the Election Commission. They are distorting the facts. The court, I hope, will give a chance to the state government to speak and there we will say everything," the chief minister added.

Ending with Rabindranath Tagore's lines -- "Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high; where the world has not been broken up into fragments by narrow domestic walls" -- the report said, "If the above mentioned worrisome trend is not arrested, where the entire might of the governmental machinery has been used (through innumerable acts of omission and commission) for furthering the political objectives of the party in power, the disease may spread to other states also. This may well be the death knell for democracy in this great nation. It is high time that the rot is stemmed and this trend is reversed in the interest of having a vibrant democracy in this nation."
New Delhi, July 15 : China is not mincing words about the downturn in relations with India, as Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that "China-India relations are still in bad shape, which is not in the interest of any country".

Global Times reported these statements made by Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi during his meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) foreign ministers' meeting in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

Wang referred to the "downturn" more than once during his meet with Jaishankar.

"To prevent border issues from further posing unnecessary interference in bilateral relations, which is already in its downturn, Wang said both sides should alter the work mechanism for border incidents from emergency responses to normalised management," Global Times said.

Wang warned that the two countries should refrain from taking any unilateral action in the sensitive and disputed areas, so as to avoid misunderstanding and misjudgment which can lead to the repetition of what happened last year.

"Any unilateral action in the sensitive and disputed areas along China-India border should be restrained as last year's incident is already pulling China-India ties to their downturn," Wang said, according to Global Times.

The two militaries have disengaged in the Galwan Valley and the Bangong Lake areas and the border situation has eased since the meeting between the foreign ministers of the two countries in Moscow in September last year.

But China-India relations are still in a bad shape, which is not in the interest of any country, Wang said, as per the report.

It is clear that the responsibility of the border issues last year does not lie with China. China is willing to negotiate with India to seek a solution acceptable to both the countries, Wang said.

The essence of China-India relations is how two large neighbouring developing countries view each other, how they can live in harmony, and how to help each other, Wang said, adding that China's strategic judgment on China-India relations remains unchanged.

The interactions between the countries should mainly be led by cooperation, mutual benefit, and complementarities with healthy competition, avoiding confrontation, Wang said.

Jaishankar agreed with Wang on bilateral ties, saying India doesn't and hopefully won't change its strategic judgment over bilateral ties and is willing to work with China to prompt bilateral relationship out of the downturn, the Global Times reported.
New Delhi, July 15 : The Supreme Court on Thursday questioned the Centre on the utility of having a sedition law even after 75 years of gaining independence from the British, and also frowned on the misuse of law by the police against people.

A bench headed by Chief Justice N.V. Ramana said: "It is a colonial law used by the British to silence Mahatma Gandhi, (Bal Gangadhar) Tilak. Still, it is necessary after 75 years of independence?" "I am indicating what I am thinking," the Chief Justice told Attorney General K.K. Venugopal Citing the example of continued usage of Section 66A of IT Act, which was quashed, but abused to arrest thousands for airing their views, the top court pointed out that sedition law (Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code) is also not immune to misuse by police to fix persons who speak against the government.

"It is like you give a saw to carpenter and he will cut entire forest. This is the impact of this law," the Chief Justice said.

He noted that police officers in a village can invoke the sedition law, and all these issues are required to be examined.

"My concern is the misuse of law. There is no accountability of executing agencies. I will look into it," he said.

"The government has already taken out several stale laws, why don't you look into this," the CJI told Venugopal, adding that "everybody is a little scared when this section is invoked".

The AG replied that he completely understands the concern of the top court and submitted the court can lay down fresh guidelines to restrict the use of the sedition provision only for protection of nation and democratic institutions.

The Chief Justice said the situation on the ground is grave, and if one party does not like what the other is saying, Section 124A is used.

"It is a serious threat to the functioning of individuals and parties," he added.

As this, the AG reiterated that the top court can lay down the parameters on the usage of the law, instead of taking out the entire law.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted that once the Centre files its counter affidavit on the PIL by Maj Gen S.G. Vombatkere (retd), the court's task will be easier.

On the AG's request, the Chief Justice said pending petitions challenging the validity of sedition law will be tagged together and issued notice to Centre on Vombatkere's petition. He pointed that Vombatkere had served the country for very long and the petition cannot be termed motivated.

The bench, which also comprised Justices A.S. Bopanna and Hrishikesh Roy, also pointed out that if one examines the history of use of Section 124A, it will be apparent that the conviction rate is very low.

The top court observations came on plea by Mysuru-based Vombatkere's plea challenging the constitutional validity of Section 124A which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

The plea argued that a statute criminalising expression based on unconstitutionally vague definitions of 'disaffection towards government' etc. is an unreasonable restriction on the fundamental right to free expression guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) and causes constitutionally impermissible 'chilling effect' on the speech.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, July 15 : The Centre on Friday sought the expenditure proposals from all states and the Union Territories (UTs) at the earliest to enable expeditious approval and sanctioning of recently approved Rs 23,123 crore Emergency Covid-19 Response Package (ECRP) Phase-II.

The Union Health Ministry put up the demand with Health Secretaries and senior officials of all the states and UTs while reviewing preparations under the ECRP Phase-II, which aims to accelerate health system preparedness for immediate responsiveness for early prevention, detection and management with sharp focus on health infrastructure development including paediatric care and with measurable outcomes.

Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister had approved the new scheme "India COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health Systems Preparedness Project: Phase-II" amounting to Rs 23,123 crore for 2021-22 on July 8. The scheme will be implemented from July 1 this year to March 31, 2022.

Phase-II of the ECRP has Central Sector (CS) and Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) components. The scheme will help in strengthening decentralized public health actions and public health facilities in rural, peri-urban and tribal areas.

During the review meeting, states and UTs were guided on policies and guidelines from Union Health Ministry on different aspects of Covid management which would help in strengthening their healthcare infrastructure to streamline Covid-19 response. The meeting was held via video conferencing.

Among the focus highlighted during the meeting was need for ramping up test, track, treat and isolate strategy requirement for scaling up testing capacity; additional beds including for paediatric care and makeshift hospitals in sub-district levels; ensuring availability of critical drugs, testing kits and PPEs; enhancing Oxygen availability and strengthen home and village community isolation centres as well as Covid care centres; sustaining and enhancing skilled medical and para-medical HR in line with the new guidelines issued by the Union Health Ministry in consultation with National Medical Commission (NMC) and Indian Nursing Council (INC).

It is also directed to support the states to establish dedicated paediatric care unit in all 736 districts of the country for responding to the needs of paediatric Covid-19 management as well as support to establish paediatric Centre of Excellence in each state and UT (either in State Medical Colleges or State Hospitals or Central Hospitals such as AIIMS, Institute of National Importance) for providing Tele-ICU services; mentoring and technical hand-holding to these District Paediatric units.

It was also stressed to increase the availability of ICU beds including 20 per cent paediatric ICU beds as per evolving needs and support to states to have 1,050 Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) storage tanks along with Medical Gas Pipeline System (MGPS) (at least one per district) to augment the availability of medical Oxygen in public healthcare system.

Strengthening of Tele-consultation platform to provide up to 5 lakhs tele-consultation services per day was also focused. It was also directed to support the states in implementation of Hospital Management Information System (HMIS) in all the District Hospitals, duly strengthening the national architecture.

States and UTs were also advised to conduct a quick gap analysis for various infrastructure components under ECRP-II including their IT infrastructure readiness. The hub and spoke model for Tele-consultation services may be improved including for the services at the COVID Care Centres, through District level Hubs.

"The Final year MBBS students, UG Interns and PG residents may be utilized under the supervision of the faculty as per the National Medical Commission Guidelines for providing services of mild Covid management through Tele-consultation. Similarly, final Nursing graduates (BSc and GNM) may be utilized for full-time Covid nursing duties at government facilities under the supervision of senior faculty as per the Indian Nursing Council guidelines. The support of remuneration or incentives to these Human Resources for Health under the ECRP-II may be leveraged by the states effectively in the times of need," said a Health Ministry statement.

All facilities in the district, Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs), eSanjeevaniOPD, Common Service Centers (CSCs) and other healthcare facilities like Sub-Centres (SCs), Primary Health Centres (PHCs), and Community Health Centres (CHCs) are required to be connected with district hospitals as spoken.

It was also pointed out that procurement of drugs for effective Covid management is an essential component of ECRP-II. Guidance can be tweaked to local needs and states must come up with their own assessments based on stocks and costs involved.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Geneva, July 15 : The world is now in the early stages of a third wave, amid rising cases of Covid's Delta variant, World Health Organisation Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has said.

The spread of the Delta variant, along with increased social mobility and the inconsistent use of proven public health measures, is driving an increase in both case numbers and deaths, he said at the 8th meeting of the International Health Regulations Emergency Committee on Wednesday.

"And after 10 weeks of declines, deaths are increasing again. The virus continues to evolve, resulting in more transmissible variants. Unfortunately, we are now in the early stages of a third wave," Ghebreyesus said.

"The Delta variant is now in more than 111 countries and we expect it to soon be the dominant Covid-19 strain circulating worldwide, if it isn't already," he added.

At the same time, there is "shocking disparity" in the global distribution of vaccines, and unequal access to life-saving tools, he lamented. Many countries still have not received any vaccines, and most have not received enough.

Covax, the international vaccine-sharing initiative -- led by the WHO) and other international organisations -- has shipped just over 100 million doses, so far.

Ghebreyesus stated that inequity has created a two-track pandemic -- namely, one track for countries with the greatest access to vaccines, who are lifting restrictions and reopening their societies, and a second track for those without vaccine access who are left "at the mercy of the virus".

He reiterated WHO's appeal for a massive push to vaccinate at least 10 per cent of the population of every country by September, at least 40 percent by the end of 2021, and at least 70 per cent by mid-2022.

Emphasising that vaccines alone will not stop the pandemic, he also called upon countries to persist with a "tailored and consistent approach". This includes using the full array of public health and social measures, and a comprehensive risk management approach to mass gatherings.

"So many countries around the world have shown that this virus can be stopped and contained with these measures," he stressed.

The global health agency is also reviewing options to digitalise the International Certificate for Vaccination and Prophylaxis, to support a harmonised approach for recording vaccination status.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Bengaluru, July 15 : Hospitals across Karnataka have been told by the state government to be better equipped by October 15 to face Covid's third wave, expected to hit children badly.

The directive from the Health Department comes as the image of the ruling BJP was dented as people struggled to get beds across the state.

Steps have been taken to increase the number of beds, ensure oxygen supply and availability of ventilators at all major hospitals in Bengaluru as well as in district and taluka hospitals. The 16-member expert committee, headed by Dr Devi Prasad Shetty, had already submitted an interim report in this connection. It is said that the third wave of Covid -- feared to target children -- will surface between September and October.

A total of 35 ICU, 75 HDU, 10 NICU beds are there at the Indira Gandhi Children's hospital in Bengaluru, where 470 beds are available for treatment. The government facilitated the establishment of a 100 bed PICU facility by joining hands with Cognizant here, while 50 beds are reserved for children at Vani Vilas hospital.

Doctors are also being trained to treat children. The process of hiring medical staff is also being accelerated. Efforts are on by hospitals to hire a sufficient number of paediatricians.
New York, July 15 : Johnson & Johnson is pulling out its Neutrogena and Aveeno spray sunscreens from US stores after some samples showed presence of benzene -- a potentially cancer-causing chemical.

"While benzene is not an ingredient in any of our sunscreen products, it was detected in some samples of the impacted aerosol sunscreen finished products. We are investigating the cause of this issue, which is limited to certain aerosol sunscreen products," the company said in a statement on Wednesday.

The recalled sunscreen products are packaged in aerosol cans. These include Aveeno Protect + Refresh aerosol sunscreen, and four Neutrogena sunscreen versions: Beach Defense aerosol sunscreen, CoolDry Sport aerosol sunscreen, Invisible Daily Defense aerosol sunscreen and UltraSheer aerosol sunscreen.

The company noted that although the levels detected in the testing would not be expected to cause adverse health consequences, it cautions against the use of the products.

"Consumers should stop using these specific products and appropriately discard them," the statement said.

The company, which is one of the world's biggest sellers of consumer health products by sales, said it is also notifying distributors and retailers to stop selling the products, and arranging for the return of the products.

Benzene is classified as a human carcinogen, a substance that could potentially cause cancer depending on the level and extent of exposure. It is ubiquitous in the environment, and humans around the world have daily exposures indoors and outdoors from multiple sources. Benzene can be absorbed, to varying degrees, by inhalation, through the skin, and orally.
New Delhi, July 15 : The Punjab BJP feels that anger among the farmers in the state against the three new farm laws and its leadership is at the behest of the ruling Congress party. Recently over a dozen BJP leaders were taken hostage in Rajpura in Patiala by protesting farmers. Punjab Bharatiya Janata Party chief Ashwani Sharma told IANS that there is no rule of law in the state and Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh is patronizing attacks on their party leaders and workers.

The saffron camp believes that all the incidents of violence and attacks on BJP leaders are politically motivated and carried out by a handful of anti-social elements. "Most of the people in Punjab are peace loving and they are against any type of violence. Those involved in acts of violence against our workers or leaders are misled by the ruling party and have the blessings of the chief minister," Sharma said.

The BJP alleged that all acts of violence are being done with an eye on next year's assembly polls.

"Captain Amarinder Singh is not taking action believing that it will demoralise BJP workers and benefit the Congress party in next year's assembly polls. But the chief minister and Congress party must understand that such acts of promoting violence will backfire and cost them heavily in the Punjab assembly polls. BJP workers continue to work for the people without fear," Sharma said.

The BJP also questioned the failure of the administration to act against those involved in acts of violence and alleged that the state government is turning a blind eye towards people disturbing law and order in the state.

"All the acts of violence or intimidation of BJP workers have been carried out in the presence of senior officials of the administration and the law enforcing agencies. On the direction of the chief minister and the government, officials have failed to take action and remain mute spectators. There is complete constitutional breakdown in the state," the Punjab BJP chief said.

The Punjab BJP once again emphasised that political parties are misleading farmers over the new farm laws. "Everyone understands that the Narendra Modi government brought the new farm laws for the benefit of farmers, but opposition parties are misleading people by creating doubts in their minds," Sharma said.

The BJP workers and leaders were also attacked during the Punjab local bodies polls held earlier this year.
Los Angeles, July 15 : Model Gigi Hadid has shared that she worried about being a good mother while she was pregnant with her first child Khai.

The 26-year-old model opened up about how she kept a good journal and a bad journal which she thinks she might give to her daughter Khai one day, reports dailymail.co.uk.

Hadid also spoke about how well her beau and musician Zayn Malik has fitted into her family.

On her pregnancy anxieties, Gigi said in the August issue of Harper's Bazaar: "During my pregnancy, I had one journal that I called my good journal and one journal that I called my bad journal. They weren't that literal, but one was more for the memories, for Khai. Maybe one day I'll give her the bad journal just to be real about it." Talking about what was inside the bad journal, she said: "Anxieties and days where I felt like, 'Am I good enough to be a mom?' I didn't want to feel guilty about feeling those things or writing those things down. I just liked the separation. I also have sketch pads where I'll water colour-sketch, and sometimes I end up writing there too. I write on the back of receipts and keep those in a notebook." She added: "I'm not particular about it, and my journals are everywhere around the house. I just pick up whichever one is closest to me and write." About Zayn, Gigi said: "At first he was like, 'How do I get a word in edgewise?' But now he is very comfortable. He speaks his mind. When he's in the middle of a family thing and everyone's like, 'Zayn, whose side are you on?' He's charming. He's usually on my mom's side. So, he's smart in that sense." She added: "This is not to say that I don't have a heart or Bella doesn't have a brain, but when dealing with family stuff and world issues, my mom calls me the brain and Bella the heart." "My brother (Anwar) is half and half. Whatever the family dinner-table discussion is, Bella will be very emotional and compassionate, and I'm sitting there pulling up charts and infographics, speaking very calmly," she said.

Gigi added: "My mom is just very Dutch and to the point. And my dad's a storyteller -- a bit goofy, but always connecting it back to, 'Oh, you've heard the old Palestinian saying..."
New Delhi, July 15 : After the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) restricted Mastercard from on-boarding new customers, among the credit card issuers, including co-brand partners, RBL Bank, Yes Bank and Bajaj Finserv are the most impacted as their entire card schemes are allied with Mastercard.

Japanese brokerage Nomura said in a note that these three entities are the most impacted by the RBI move.

HDFC Bank has 60 per cent of its card schemes tied to Mastercard, Amex and Diners, while for Axis Bank and ICICI Bank, this is about 35-36 per cent.

"That said, we don't know the individual card schemes' contribution to overall profitability of the issuers to assess the potential impact," it added.

HDFC Bank is already restricted from issuing new cards, and hence is not incrementally impacted. On the other hand, Kotak's card portfolio is entirely allied to Visa and hence it won't face any issues.

The managements of both Axis Bank and ICICI Bank have in the recent past talked about their cobranded cards with Flipkart and Amazon, respectively, to be the fastest-growing card schemes. These card schemes are 14 per cent and 15 per cent of outstanding cards for Axis and ICICI, respectively.

While the Amazon ICICI card is allied to Visa, the Flipkart Axis card is allied to Mastercard, and hence is a potential medium-term risk, should the current status-quo continue, Nomura said.

The RBI on Wednesday restricted Mastercard Asia/Pacific Pte Ltd from on-boarding new customers across all its card products (debit, credit and prepaid) from July 22, 2021.

The RBI had earlier put similar restrictions on both American Express Bank (Amex) and Diners Club International (Discover Financial Services).

"This leaves only Visa Inc and homegrown NPCI's RuPay as payment providers under no restrictions currently. We don't know if Visa has fulfilled all the requirements of data localisation as envisaged in the Storage of Payment System Data circular of the RBI," Nomura said.

"In the near term, we don't foresee any material impact on card issuers (especially credit card issuers), but there could be a medium-term impact if this situation persists," it added.

(Sanjeev Sharma can be reached at Sanjeev.s@ians.in)
Chennai, July 15 : The Madras High Court on Thursday suggested that the Greater Chennai Corporation form a dedicated team led by an IAS officer for the upkeep of the famous Marina beach in Chennai.

Hearing a plea on the issue, a division bench of Justice N. Kirubakaran and Justice T.V. Thamilselvi said that the world-famous beach was not properly maintained and was full of garbage and litter.

The court also directed the Greater Chennai Corporation and the Tamil Nadu government to file a detailed report on the amount of garbage generated on the beach every day and the steps taken by the them to remove this waste.

It also asked the Greater Chennai Corporation to provide the court with the exact details of the revenue from the beach. It also asked for a detailed report on the number of toilets at the beach as well as the mobile toilets available for tourists who frequent it.

The court also asked as to how the Marina beach is being advertised as a tourist destination without properly maintaining it.

It also sought full details on the schemes and measures being taken/to be taken by the corporation for the maintenance of the beach or to beautify it.

The court also asked the civic body as to why an exclusive fish market was not constructed near the loop road to prevent fish vendors and the general public from encroaching the loop road of the beach.

The Greater Chennai Corporation was asked to provide the detailed report to the court by July 22.
Hyderabad, July 15 : Actor Vijay Deverakonda on Thursday celebrated three years of his fashion brand, Rowdy.

The actor, who is known for his work in Telugu films, had launched Rowdy to appeal to the fashion-inclined among the young generation.

"I am you. I am the rowdy you. We have been Rowdy for three years now. Coming from nothing yet here we are, 3 years of going out there and making a name for us everywhere; each in his own field, each living his life without limitations, without fear, with immense love and giving it all to everything. There is now stopping Rowdy! As we move forward Rowdiness shall take over," he wrote on Instagram story.

Before the actor launched the brand, he was tagged as Rowdy by his fans.

Vijay will soon be seen in "Liger" alongside Ananya Panday. The Karan Johar production marks the actor's Hindi film debut.
Bhubaneswar, July 15 : Protesting against price hike in fuel and other essential commodities, the Left parties along with Congress on Thursday observed a 6-hour Odisha bandh on Thursday.

The CPI, CPI (M), CPI (ML) and Forward Bloc workers staged protests at various places of the state from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m. The Left party supporters were also seen picketing at the various major junctions and appealing to the public to cooperate with the bandh.

The protesters blocked national highways and rail services in few places including capital city Bhubaneswar. The protesters blocked the railway track at Bhubaneswar station disrupting train services.

The traffic in the national highway was also disturbed as the activists blocked the road here. However, the traffic movement in the cities has not been affected as much. All essential shops remained open. Only a few shopping malls and big shops remained closed to avoid any untoward situation.

Similar protests were also carried out in other places including Cuttack, Berhampur, Khurda and Jeypore.

"With the hike in prices of petrol and diesel, the cost of daily use commodities has also been raised accordingly. We appeal to both the Centre and state government to immediately withdraw the taxes and cess imposed on the petrol and diesel," said CPI leader Rama Krushna Panda.

"We don't worry about the impact of the bandh call. As a political party, we are doing our moral duty. The people who are feeling the price hike, supported us," said State Congress president Niranjan Patnaik.

During the bandh, no major untoward incident was reported in the state. The petrol price is Rs 102.36 per litre and diesel is currently sold at Rs 97.95 per litre in Bhubaneswar.
Bengaluru, July 15 : About 5,000 youth from regions across Karnataka, Telangana and Delhi-NCR are now skilled in Data Science and Cloud computing, with over 2,000 of them placed in jobs through a programme by IBM in partnership with NASSCOM Foundation aimed at making India's youth future ready.

This had been done as part of IBM SkillsBuild career readiness programme. IBM and NASSCOM Foundation worked with 23 colleges to certify enrolled students on IBM certified courses on emerging technologies including Data science and Cloud computing in 2019.

This unique programme engaged students with an on-campus, 250 hour-long blended training model that uses online and face-to-face training to build skills in new-age technologies like Data Science and Cloud computing in its first year.

Subsequently, the programme pivoted into a completely online mode of education and learning due to COVID restrictions in 2020. Students from 23 Tier-2 and Tier-3 non-technical institutions were trained by partners TMI and iPrimed.

Several colleges in Dharwar, Bhagalkot, Gadag, Koppal, Nargund, Bengaluru, and Tumkur in Karnataka and Faridabad in Haryana were also a part of the programme. After the training, IBM and NASSCOM Foundation have been conducting placement drives across the country and have already placed over 2000 students in leading technology organizations despite the pandemic.

Manoj Balachandran, Leader, Corporate Social Responsibility, IBM India/South Asia, said aligned to the Skill India mission IBM is committed to bridging the skills gap by working with an ecosystem of industry partners, academia and government to provide professional and technical skills to students and teachers.
New Delhi, July 15 : The Union Finance Ministry has released Rs 75,000 crore to states and UTs with legislatures under the back-to-back loan facility in lieu of GST compensation. This is in addition to normal GST compensation being released every 2 months out of actual cess collection.

Subsequent to the 43rd GST Council Meeting held on May 28, the ministry had decided that the Centre would borrow Rs 1.59 lakh crore and release it to states and UTs on a back-to-back basis to meet the resource gap due to the short release of compensation on account of inadequate amount in the GST Compensation Fund.

The amount released this year is as per the principles adopted for a similar facility in FY 2020-21, where Rs 1.10 lakh crore was borrowed by the Centre for onward transfer to states as part of GST compensation formula finalised last year.

This year, the shortfall amount over GST compensation is expected at Rs 1.59 lakh crore. This would be over and above the compensation in excess of Rs 1 lakh crore (based on cess collection) that is estimated to be released to states and UTs with legislature during this financial year. The sum total of Rs 2.59 lakh crore is expected to exceed the amount of GST compensation accruing in FY 2021-22, a Ministry statement said.

All eligible states and UTs (with legislature) have agreed to the arrangements of funding of the compensation shortfall under the back-to-back loan facility, the statement added.

"For effective response and management of Covid-19 pandemic and a step-up in capital expenditure, all states and UTs have a very important role to play. For assisting the states/UTs in their endeavour, Ministry of Finance has frontloaded the release of assistance under the back-to-back loan facility during FY 2021-22 and Rs 75,000 crore (almost 50 per cent of the total shortfall for the entire year) released today in a single instalment. The balance amount will be released in the second half of 2021-22 in steady instalments," the ministry said.

The release of Rs 75,000 crore is funded from borrowings of the Centre in 5-year securities, totalling Rs 68,500 crore, and 2-year securities for Rs 6,500 crore, issued in the current financial year, at a Weighted Average Yield of 5.60 and 4.25 per cent per year, respectively.

It is expected that this release will help the states/UTs in planning their public expenditure among other things, for improving health infrastructure and taking up infrastructure projects, the statement said.
Mumbai, July 15 : Fresh trouble was brewing for former Mumbai Police Commissioner Param Bir Singh as the Maharashtra government on Thursday ordered the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) to investigate corruption charges levelled against him by a junior officer.

Currently the Commandant General of Home Guards, Singh has earlier served as city police chief of both Mumbai and Thane, and is reported to be on medical leave since over two months.

Following a complaint by Mumbai Police Inspector Anup Dange alleging that he was approached by a person claiming to be a relative of Singh and sought gratification of Rs 2 crore to reinstate him, the ACB had sought the state government's clearance for an open enquiry against the ex-top cop.

Dange, who was previously attached to Gamdevi Police Station and later Mumbai Police Control Room (South Region), had been suspended during Singh's tenure.

He said in his detailed complaint that after he had taken action against a bar owner in 2019, Singh had ordered his suspension, and also accused him of trying to shield some elements with mafia links when he was the DG, ACB.

With the state government's green signal given last Monday, the ACB is now likely summon Singh to record his statement and submit its report on the open enquiry to the Home Department.

The controversial Singh already has a first information report lodged against him for alleged wrongs committed when he was Thane Police chief and is named as one of the witnesses in the cases pertaining to the SUV with gelatin sticks planted near industrialist Mukesh Ambani's home, and the subsequent death of vehicle owner Mansukh Hiran.

After his sensational 'letter-bomb' of April targeting then state Home Minister Anil Deshmukh, which embarrassed the ruling Maha Vikas Aghadi government, the Central Bureau of Investigation and the Enforcement Directorate recorded his statements.
New Delhi, July 15 : The Delhi Police Crime Branch on Thursday said that with the arrest of a spy, Habib-ur-Rahman from Rajasthan's Pokhran, it has busted an espionage racket and also recovered highly confidential documents containing top secret information relating to the Indian Army. He was going to pass them to his handlers in Pakistan.

Addressing a press conference here, Crime Branch Special Commissioner Praveer Ranjan said that with the arrest of Rahman, the Crime Branch has busted an espionage racket. Rahman was transferring important information to his handlers in Pakistan's ISI.

Ranjan said that the Crime Bramch also arrested an Army official named Paramjit.

He said that the Crime Branch took up the probe after it got inputs about some persons based at Delhi, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh being involved in anti-national activities and espionage.

Ranjan said that these individuals were indulging in anti-national activities since long and some army officials were providing them highly classified, confidential information and documents, for monetary benefits.

Ranjan said, "During the process on July 11, specific secret intel was received that one individual by the name of Habib, who had visited Pakistan also, is referring secret or classified documents pertaining to Indian Army to Pakistan through some anti-national individuals based in Delhi." He said that it also came to light that these activities are taking place in Pokhran, Rajasthan.

"If raided, these spies could be apprehended red-handed," the Special Commissioner said.

The officer said the information was developed further and a team was formed to conduct the raid and arrest the accused.

Ranjan said, "Acting on the above information the team reached Pokhran and through technical surveillance the identity of the suspect was verified. Through electronic surveillance his location was ascertained and he was intercepted and checked." "From his possession certain documents related to Army were recovered. On questioning, he could not give any satisfactory reply on why he was in possession of these documents or what is the source of these documents and kept on giving evasive replies," Ranjan said, adding that these documents have been got verified and authenticated from Army Headquarters in Delhi, which confirmed the authenticity and informed that the documents contain highly secret information about the Army.

"We filed a case under several sections of the Official Secrets Act," he said.

Crime Branch DCP Monika Bhardwaj said, "Rahman disclosed that he is in the business of supplying fruits and vegetables to different vendors including the army base at Pokhran. While he was supplying goods at this canteen, he came in contact with one army official Paramjit." "Initially Paramjit was posted at Pokhran and later on was transferred to another state - but that did not affect the exchange of vital or crucial inside information reaching Rahman.

"It was further disclosed by Rahman that the information so provided to him, was being passed on to his "Pakistani handlers", she said.

"Rahman disclosed that for all his services he was being paid in cash by his handlers and the same was being transferred by him and his associates to the bank accounts of his associate army officer by wire transfers through some hawala traders," the DCP said.

Bhardwaj added that Rahman during questioning also revealed that the recovered documents were provided to him by the army official and he was to send or convey them to his handler.

"In the past also, he had sent several documents, CDs containing vital information about the Army and other information to his handler and received a handsome remuneration for the same. During further interrogation it was revealed that in the year 2019 he had visited Pakistan," she added.
Hyderabad, July 15 : Telangana Municipal Administration and Urban Development Minister K.T. Rama Rao has urged Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to give directions to local military authorities of the Secunderabad Cantonment Board for restraint in unauthorised blockage of roads.

In a letter to the Defence Minister, he said the blockage of roads is affecting millions of citizens dwelling in north and north-eastern parts of Hyderabad.

KTR, as the state minister is popularly known, raised the issue of closure of Army Ordnance Corps roads. This is the latest in a series of letters written to the Defence Ministry requesting their intervention in resolving the long-pending issue.

"In an arbitrary and unauthorised manner, the local authorities are frequently resorting to the closure of these roads, resulting in untold misery to large sections of people as they have to take detours to commute daily," he wrote.

He said that in July, local military authorities had shut down four important roads - Allahabad Gate, Gough Road, Wellington Road, and Ordnance Road, citing a surge in Covid-19 cases.

"It is distressing to note these roads are closed often for reasons bordering on frivolity. The state had taken up all required necessary measures to contain Covid including lockdown in May/June, and seeing the improvement, the lockdown was eased and, surprisingly, roads are now closed for aforesaid reasons," said KTR.

He pointed out that no public roads can be closed by local military authorities/any authority other than a Cantonment Board, and without following the procedure laid down under Section 258 of the Cantonment Act.

KTR also highlighted the fact that Defence Ministry, in September 2018, reviewed the matter of the closure of roads and superseding all above orders or anything contained therein, insisted on the absolute necessity to follow the procedure prescribed under Section 258 of the Cantonment Act, and has directed that no public road in the cantonment shall be closed by the local authority/board without following the due process as set out thereunder.

"By blatantly defying all SOPs, guidelines, and instruction of MoD, the continued closure of roads and in fact, LMA adding more roads to such closures is regretful, and disappointing. Apart from it leading to innumerable sufferings to millions of people, the LMA is almost disobeying and neglecting its own SOP and guidelines," he wrote.

He urged Rajnath Singh to pass necessary instructions to the local military authorities in Hyderabad to immediately open all these roads and further restrain them from taking any unilateral and arbitrary decision for closure of any of the public roads without following the due process, as contemplated under Section 258.
New Delhi, July 15 : The Supreme Court on Thursday held that deciding the age of superannuation purely lies in the realm of policy-making, as it set aside an Allahabad High Court judgment, quashing the decision to give prospective effect to enhancement in the age of superannuation by the New Okhla Industrial Development Authority (NOIDA).

The high court had directed that retrospective effect should be given to the decision taken by the NOIDA in September 2012, to enhance the retirement age of its employees from 58 to 60. The NOIDA and the UP government had filed an appeal in the top court questioning the correctness of this judgment.

Allowing the appeal, a bench of Justices D.Y. Chandrachud and M.R. Shah said: "The infirmity in the judgment lies in the fact that the high court has trenched upon the realm of policy making and has assumed to itself, jurisdiction over a matter which lies in the domain of the executive." It added that whether the age of superannuation should be increased and if so, the date from which this should be effected is a matter of policy into which the high court ought not to have entered.

The bench also faulted the high court in ordering that the decision of the state to accept the proposal to enhance the age of superannuation must date back to June 29, 2002.

The high court had ruled that not giving the benefit of increase in the age of superannuation to employees who had retired before September 30, 2012 was arbitrary.

To this, the top court said: "Whether the decision to increase the age of superannuation should date back to the resolution passed by the NOIDA or should be made effective from the date of the approval by the state government was a matter for the state government to decide." It observed in drawing every cut-off, some employees would stand on one side of the line while the others would be positioned otherwise. "This element of hardship cannot be a ground for the high court to hold that the decision was arbitrary," it added.

It noted that when the state originally decided to increase the age of superannuation of its own employees from 58 to 60 years on November 28, 2001, it had left the public sector corporations to take a decision, based on the financial impact which would result if they were to increase the age of superannuation for their own employees.

The court concluded that since enhancement of the age of superannuation is a 'public function' channelised by the provisions of the statute and the service regulations, the doctrine of promissory estoppel cannot be used to challenge the action of the NOIDA.
New Delhi, July 15 : The Covid-19 pandemic and rising digitisation has led to a surge in cybercrimes. India saw the number of breaches increased by 2,000 per cent during the pandemic, said experts at Pursuit 2021 -- an event on cybersecurity organised by Internet and Mobile Association of India.

There has been a rise in targeted attacks, during the pandemic and "cyberwar has started", said Gulshan Rai, India's first Cybersecurity Coordinator and Distinguished Fellow, ORF.

Although 90 per cent of attacks are traditional attacks, which include phishing, malware, etc, however, the key concern is the rise in the number of targeted attacks (which accounts for 9 per cent currently). Solar winds, Wannacry, are some examples of targeted attacks which are detrimental for any organisation and nation.

"In India, almost every sector has been breached because they all are inter-connected. During the pandemic, the number of breaches increased by 2,000 per cent because we were using ASL or DSL from home. ASL, DSL, fibre, nothing is secured, this whole scenario reflects that your sensitive information is at risk and is being used for a variety of purposes, causing financial fraud, causing a threat to national security," Rai said.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Home Affairs' National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP), which was launched in August 2019, has recorded over four lakh complaints, with about 50 per cent related to financial frauds, revealed Ashok Kumar, Director, Ministry of Home Affairs.

The NCRP portal gives a perspective on what kind of complaints/frauds are trending.

"The recently developed module -- Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System, on the portal has helped us save Rs 5 crore within two to three months," Kumar said.

Under the new module, released with the helpline number 155260, once a complaint is filed with the police, they note down certain parameters of the complaint and once input into the system, it alerts the banks on any suspicious transaction, saving the targeted amount.

The two-day virtual event, held from July 14-15, deliberated upon various aspects of cybercrimes in the financial sector and how technology can play a role in mitigating such attacks. The event saw the participation of about 4,000 delegates and over 130 speakers from across the globe.
Bengaluru, July 15 : The Karnataka Cabinet on Thursday decided to organise the Global Investors Meet (GIM) in Bengaluru in February 2022.

Besides this, the Cabinet also approved a special incentive programme for oxygen manufacturing and associated enterprises in the state.

After the Cabinet meeting, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Basavaraj Bommai, told reporters that the three-day 'Invest Karnataka 2022' Global Investors' Meet will be held in Bengaluru from February 9-11 next year, to attract investments in the state.

"The event will be held at the Palace Grounds in Bengaluru," he said, adding that already a lot of groundwork has been done by the industries department for the GIM.

"The industries department has been interacting with several multinational companies in this regard. Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, the industry sector has responded positively towards this event," he said.

The GIM was originally planned for November 2020, but due to the outbreak of the pandemic in March last year and the resultant lockdowns, it had to be postponed.

Meanwhile, the Cabinet has also approved a special incentive programme exclusively to promote the oxygen manufacturing sector in the state.

Recalling the horrors of oxygen short-supply during the second wave of the pandemic, Bommai said that the state government wishes to encourage the oxygen manufacturing sector in the state.

According to him, the incentives include capital subsidy of 25 per cent of the value of fixed assets subject to minimum investment of Rs 10 crore, 100 per cent exemption from electricity duty for three years after commencement of commercial production, and additional power tariff subsidy of Rs 1,000 per metric tonne supply to the government.

"There will also be 100 per cent stamp duty exemption and reimbursement from loan and land documents, concessional registration charges, and 100 per cent reimbursement of land conversion fees," he added.

The minister said that at present, the state has only nine oxygen manufacturing units and six suppliers.

"Currently our manufacturing capacity stands at 815 MT and the storage capacity is 5,780 MT. Against this background, we wish to augment oxygen manufacturing capacity in the state. If any entrepreneur comes forward, we are ready to offer incentives," he said.
New Delhi, July 15 : The Supreme Court has taken a suo motu cognisance of delay in release of convicts after grant of bail.

A three-judge bench, headed by Chief Justice N.V. Ramana and comprising Justices L. Nageswara Rao and A.S. Bopanna, will take up the matter on Friday.

Recently, there was delay on the part of Uttar Pradesh authorities in releasing 13 prisoners who were granted interim bail by top court on July 8. These convicts were in Agra jail for 14 to 22 years, and they were granted bail after it was found that they were juveniles at the time of offence. It was contended that convicts continued to remain incarcerated, though there was a clear-cut finding of them being minor.

On July 13, the advocate representing the convicts had informed the top court that 12 have been released a day ago and one would be released on the date.

According to a senior official, the top court took note of the reports that there was a delay in the release of the convicts from Agra jail, after they were granted bail.

On Friday, the top court will also examine the situation in connection with its May 8 order in another suo motu case of 2020, which was taken up to decongest prisons to contain the spread of Covid-19 in prisons.

In May, a bench headed by the Chief Justice had passed a slew of directions to decongest prisons and had ordered immediate release of prisoners who were granted bail or parole last year.
Panaji, July 15 : Governors are banned from taking political positions in India, newly-appointed Goa Governor P.S. Sreedharan Pillai said on Thursday.

Pillai also said that Governors should instead focus on social commitment instead of commitment to politics.

"The Governors are not expected to play one way or the other and take a political stand. Any political part to play (on the part of the Governor) is banned in India," Pillai told a press conference at the Raj Bhavan, soon after he was sworn-in as the Governor of Goa.

He also said that a Supreme Court ruling in 2010 had put the non-political aspect of the Governor in context.

"Governors are expected to have a commitment to the society, but not politically," he said.

Pillai, who hails from Kerala, also praised Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan's hunger strike on Wednesday in protest against the social evil of dowry.

"The Kerala Governor is aggressive against some social evils," Pillai said, adding that even Mahatma Gandhi undertook the practice of self-sacrifice to "change the people of this country".
Gurugram, July 15 : The Gurugram district health department has planned to vaccinate the district's villages in turns and this initiative is going to begin from two villages of the district on Friday, health officials said.

According to the officials, this drive will be started from Aklimpur and Hasanpur villages under the Tigra Primary Health Centre (PHC) and at these villages 100 per cent of the eligible population will be vaccinated. This drive will be done under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) collaboration with British Airways.

The officials informed that this campaign will be launched by District Civil Surgeon Dr Virendra Yadav at village Aklimpur. In the camps of both villages, the first and second doses of the vaccine will be given to those eligible.

"The Health Department has set a target to vaccinate all the eligible citizens of the villages. Simultaneously, Civil Surgeon Dr Virendra Yadav has instructed the Health Department team that after the successful organising of this special camp on Friday, similar special vaccination camps will be organised in every village of the district," Deputy Civil Surgeon, Dr M.P. Singh told IANS.
New Delhi : A Trinamool Congress delegation, comprising 6 MPs, coming out after meeting the Election Commission at Nirvachan Sadan in New Delhi in New Delhi on Thursday July 15, 2021.(Photo: Wasim Sarvar/IANS) Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi : A Trinamool Congress delegation, comprising 6 MPs, coming out after meeting the Election Commission at Nirvachan Sadan in New Delhi in New Delhi on Thursday July 15, 2021.(Photo: Wasim Sarvar/IANS) Image Source: IANS News

Kolkata/New Delhi, July 15 : A six-member Trinamool Congress delegation met the Election Commission on Thursday and urged it to conduct bypolls in six vacant West Bengal Assembly seats at the earliest.

In a memorandum submitted to the poll panel, it stated that with the decreasing number of coronavirus cases in the state, conditions are conducive for conducting the bypolls with appropriate Covid protocols in place.

"The number of Covid-19 cases is at least 17 times lower now with fewer than 831 cases reported till July 14. The positivity rate was 33 per cent during the assembly polls but now it has come down to less than 2 per cent. Hence, it is conducive to hold the by-polls to the aforementioned constituencies at this time. Going by the steady decline, it is expected that by the time the by-elections are announced and conducted, the number of daily cases will decrease further," the party said.

Addressing media after the meeting in New Delhi, Trinamool Parliamentary Party Leader Sudip Bandopadhyay said: "We had a meeting in a cordial atmosphere and they had listened to everything very carefully. They has also apprised us of the situation and told that the Commission is keeping a close watch on the situation. We are hopeful that something positive will come out of the meeting." The byelections are of critical importance to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who lost the Assembly poll to BJP's Suvendu Adhikari in Nandigram.

The Constitution allows a person to occupy a ministerial position only up to six months without getting elected to a state legislature or Parliament. It mandates that a minister who is not a member of legislature for six consecutive months shall cease to occupy the position at the expiration of that period.

Thus, Banerjee needs to get elected to the Assembly by November 4 to continue as the Chief Minister.

Asked about the bypolls, the Chief Minister said: "The Election Commission asked us about the election to two Rajya Sabha seats but they didn't ask anything about the Assembly seats. We have informed that we are prepared enough to conduct elections for both Rajya Sabha and the assembly seats that are lying vacant.

Dinhata and Santipur assembly seats fell vacant after BJP leaders Nisith Pramanik and Jagannath Sarkar resigned as MLAs and chose to retain their membership of Parliament. Mamata Banerjee's pocket borough of Bhawanipore also fell vacant after state minister Sovandeb Chattopadhyay resigned to facilitate her election from the seat.

Byelections to Khardah and Gosaba seats in North and South 24 Parganas, respectively, are to be held after the death of Trinamool's Kajal Sinha and Jayanta Naskar due to Covid.

Elections to Samserganj and Jangipur seats in Murshidabad had been countermanded following the death of candidates and later postponed indefinitely as Covid-19 raged across the state during the second wave.

Currently, Banerjee and Finance Minister Amit Mitra are the two non-legislators in the ministry but Mitra has expressed his desire to step down due to ill-health.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, July 15 : Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami met in New Delhi on Thursday. Various topics related to the development of central Uttarakhand were discussed in this meeting, particularly the development of border areas.

On the meeting, Chief Minister Dhami said that, "In view of the strategic importance of Uttarakhand being bordered by China and Nepal, priority should be given to the border area development programmes in the border areas of the state. Especially to prevent migration from the border areas. Plans have to be worked out." "Considering the strategic importance, the formalities required for the construction of roads and bridges are being completed at the earliest." Police verification of suspicious people coming from outside hilly areas of Uttarakhand was also discussed.

The CM said, "Uttarakhand is also a sensitive state from the point of view of disasters. The Army has always played an important role in relief and rescue operations in times of disasters. There is better coordination between the state government and military administration." The Chief Minister also requested to restart the military recruitment rallies which could not be held due to Covid-19 in the state. General Rawat assured all possible cooperation in the development of the border areas of the state.

During the meet, NTRO chief Anil Dhasmana said, "Full assistance will be given for the development of drone technology in Uttarakhand."
New Delhi, July 15 : India is still witnessing the second wave which is not yet over as northeastern states and some parts of south India are still battling it, a member of the government's Covid expert panel said on Thursday.

Talking to IANS, Covid-19 Working Group of the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) Chairman N.K. Arora said: "Second wave is not yet over..." He also contended that the Delta Plus variant is "not going to be that disturbing or harmful" while the Delta variant infection is still in some parts of the country.

Some experts suggest that there may be possible third wave at the end of August but it may not be as devastating as the second wave was during April to June.

Experts also stress that adherence to Covid protocols is mandatory to curb the infection and vaccination is an important tool to fight the pandemic.

The Indian Council of Medical Research's Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases Division head Samiran Panda has said that the vaccines available now largely are effective against the new variants, but the efficacy may differ for different strains.

Vaccines are not infection-preventing, but disease-modifying, he added.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Thiruvananthapuram, July 15 : With the Supreme Court on Thursday posing tough questions to the Kerala government on its plea to withdraw cases against CPI-M leaders in the 2015 Assembly ruckus, veteran Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala slammed the Pinarayi Vijayan dispensation for going to the apex court in the matter.

The former Leader of Opposition, who has been after this petition by always filing counter-petitions said that if Chief Minister Vijayan "has any shame left, he should withdraw this petition filed by the government".

"Counsel for the government failed to even give a response when it was asked what is the public interest in this case. For the past four years, I have been pursuing this case and by now, the Vijayan government has spent crores from the public exchequer in this case. If there is any shame left, the Vijayan government can still decide to withdraw this petition," he said.

Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court came down heavily on the Kerala government, asking if it is in public interest to damage the sanctum sanctorum of democracy and justify claiming that the house is the supreme authority on the matter.

As the Kerala government submitted before a bench comprising Justices D.Y. Chandrachud and M.R. Shah that the House has the prerogative to take action against MLAs for creating a ruckus in the Assembly, Justice Chandrachud asked senior advocate Ranjit Kumar, representing the state: "Suppose an MLA whips out a revolver in the Assembly and also empties his revolver. Can you say the house is supreme on this?" Justice Shah asked why the government was pursuing the withdrawal application and advancing defence arguments, when it should have been done by the accused. "Is it in public interest?" he asked.

The top court's remarks came during the hearing of the Kerala government's plea seeking its nod to withdraw cases against CPI-M leaders, including present Education Minister V. Sivankutty, for vandalism in the Assembly in 2015, when the party was in the Opposition.

The Chief Judicial Magistrate of Thiruvananthapuram and the Kerala High Court had rejected the withdrawal application.
Srinagar, July 15 : The Jammu and Kashmir Police in Bandipora district have busted a terror module of proscribed terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) by arresting three terrorist associates, recovering incriminating materials, including arms and ammunition, from their possession, officials said on Thursday.

The police said that based on specific input, the Bandipora police along with the army and CRPF arrested three terrorist associates who have been identified as Suhaib Ah Malik alias Asif and Aejaz Ahmad Najar, both resident of Gundpora, and Touseef Ahmad Sheikh from Chittaybanday Bandipora. All three were affiliated to proscribed terror outfit LeT.

Incriminating materials, arms and ammunition, including one pistol, fake SIM cards, forged documents etc. were recovered from their possession.

"Preliminary investigation has revealed that they were involved in providing logistics and other support like fake SIM cards to the active terrorists of proscribed terror outfit LeT. Besides, the trio was also in contact with active LeT terrorists across the border, including operational commander Babar, who had tasked them to monitor the movement of police, security forces and political functionaries in the area. Babar had also promised the trio to supply three AK rifles in coming days so that they could formally join the terror ranks," the police said.

"They were further tasked to carry out weapon snatchings till the consignment of weapons could be smuggled in and delivered," the police added.
Hyderabad, July 15 : Nine short films and documentaries made by the Instructional Media Centre (IMC) of Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU) have been selected for Cultural Cinema Fest 2021, supported by UNESCO, Delhi office.

The online festival scheduled to begin on July 17 and films from more than 100 countries are participating in the festival.

The selected films are - Aristotle, Stephen Hawkins, Dr C V Raman, Bharat Ratna Dr A P J Abdul Kalam, Nawa-e-Sarosh Mirza Ghalib, Al Zahrawi, A Tribute to Prof Yashpal, Sir Isaac Newton and Prof U R Rao. They were selected from among 44 films under the category.

IMC director Rizwan Ahmad said it is a huge recognition of the films at global level.

"Our focus is to take the academic content of the centre at international level and the team has made exceptional efforts in supporting this endeavour. This is the fourth consecutive time when IMC productions have been recognized and selected at national film festivals," he added.

He congratulated the team members who directed, scripted and produced the films.

Prof. S.M. Rahmatullah, in-charge Vice-Chancellor congratulated Rizwan and his team for this achievement. He noted that IMC through its continuous efforts is playing an important role in showcasing the relevance of Urdu language in the contemporary era, time and again.

Meanwhile, subscription of MANUU's educational YouTube channel crossed 50,000. IMC has been continuously providing educational content in Urdu through its YouTube channel which is a unique initiative of providing material in Urdu.

While students are away from campuses due to Covid-19 pandemic, their educational needs continue to be met with alternative options such as online education, social media and technology based-education dissemination.

Rizwan Ahamd while thanking all the subscribers said the sustained efforts of the centre in educational domain are being recognised and students are using its online content, video lectures and e-content in large number. "But this is not our destination, we need to reach out to every student who needs content in Urdu. The channel is being watched all around the world," he added.
Bengaluru, July 15 : Amidst continued speculations about leadership change in the state, the Karnataka cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa on Thursday gave its nod to install a statue of 12th century social reformer Jagajyoti Basaveshwara on the premises of Vidhana Soudha.

The seat of the state legislature and secretariat, the Vidhana Soudha so far only had statues of famous politicians. There is a statue of Basaveshwara, also known as Basavanna and the founder of the Lingayat tradition (to which Yediyurappa belongs) nearby, but it is outside the premises.

After the cabinet meeting here, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Basavaraj Bommai said that the design of the statue would soon be finalised by the Kannada and Culture Department. "There are many statues of Basavanna, who is on a horse, but this time, the cabinet was unanimous to have a statue of Basavanna in a writing posture... but no posture is finalised yet," he said.

This cabinet decision assumes significance in the wake of repeated news being spread about Yediyurappa's replacement in the state by his own partymen.

Yediyurappa is seen as the tallest Lingayat leader in the state. In this last seven months, he has announced two major projects - the Anubhava Mantapa project -- also linked to Basaveshwara -- in Basavakalyana, in Bidar on January 7 and now, installation of Basaveshwara's statue inside precinct of Vidhana Soudha, which only cements his position as leader within his Lingayat community.

A statesman, philosopher, poet, social reformer and Lingayat saint in the Shiva Bhakti movement during the reign of the Kalyani Chalukya/Kalachuri dynasty, Basaveshwara was active during both dynasties but reached the peak of his influence during the rule of King Bijjala II of the latter.

Rejecting gender or social discrimination, superstitions and rituals, he sought to spread social awareness through his poetry, popularly known as 'Vachanaas', three to five line couplets in simple Kannada and ending with one or the other local names under which Shiva is invoked or offered prayers. In style, they are epigrammatical, parallelistic and allusive, and well on the vanity of riches, the valuelessness of mere rites or book learning, the uncertainty of life and the spiritual privileges of Shiva Bhakts.

As a statesman, he introduced new institutions such as the Anubhava Mantapa (the hall of spiritual experience), which is often quoted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his speeches.
Patna, July 15 : A Patna-based NGO -- Dostana Safar -- organised a pride parade involving members of the LGBTQ community in the Danapur locality of the city on Thursday.

The parade was held at the premises of Gandhi High School in which hundreds of members of the LGBTQ community (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer) took part from across the state, holding posters and banners stating that they have problem with their identities.

"We want equal participation in the society just like men and women have as per the Indian culture. No one can look down at our community. We need respect for ourselves," Kajal, a transgender, said.

"Our community has highly educated people and is involved in social service. We have a long-standing demand to legalise same sex marriage for generational growth," said another transgender, Rashmi Kumari.

Her partner Rani Kumari said: "Most of us have developed relations on the basis of love and mutual understanding and it is above body colour and sex." The pride parade started in Bihar in 2019 and it has been held every year in Patna district since then.

"The motive of the pride parade is to pass the message to the respective governments of the state and the Centre to consider our demand and provide us equality in the society," Rani Kumari said.
Guwahati, July 15 : Following the lead of some north Indian states and neighbouring Meghalaya, the Assam cabinet decided to allow online sale and home delivery of liquor, but within the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) area.

Briefing media after the cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Health Minister Keshab Mahanta said that the decision was taken on an experimental basis for a month to avoid crowding outside liquor shops and counters in view of the prevailing Covid-19 pandemic.

"We took this decision after witnessing crowding in front of liquor outlets during the non-curfew timing. The experimental step was also taken following the directives of the Supreme Court and the Madras High Court," he told the media.

Assam's Covid positivity rate has been ranging between 1.53 per cent and 1.74 per cent during the past one week with 263 positive cases (highest among the 34 districts) on Thursday night in Kamrup Metro district that encompasses the corporation area measuring about 217 square km and with population of around 11 lakh.

The Supreme Court last year left it to the states to consider online sales and home delivery of liquor during the Covid-19 induced lockdown period to avoid crowding and violation of Covid protocols.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Madrid, July 15 : FC Barcelona is on the verge of agreeing a deal with Lionel Messi for the Argentinean to remain at the club for a further five years, reorts the Spanish media.

Messi is currently out of contract after his last deal with the club expired on June 30th, with talks over a new deal dragging on, reports Xinhua.

The main problem with the negotiations was finding a formula that would keep Messi at the club, while ensuring his wages would not breach wage ceiling requirements imposed on Barca by La Liga.

That conundrum looks now to have been solved with Messi agreeing to a new five-year contract, with wage cut of around 50 percent on his previous deal. The player has reportedly accepted a net income reported to be in the region of 20 million euros (about 23.7 million US dollars) a year, plus a bonus for agreeing to put pen to paper.

The length of the contract is surprising given that Messi is 34 years old, but there is also the chance the contract will include a clause allowing him to leave Barca after a further two or three years.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta will view the agreement as an important personal success after replacing Josep Maria Bartomeu as the head of the club in March, promising to keep Messi at the club after the Argentinean had publicly said he wanted to leave last summer.

Messi is currently on holiday after leading Argentina to victory in the recent Copa America, but the media speculate the new contract will be made public before the end of the week.
Itanagar/Aizawl, July 15 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have stressed that the inter-state boundary issue be resolved amicably and have suggested an out-of-court solution to the matter, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu said during a virtual meeting conducted by Union DoNER Minister G. Kishan Reddy on Thursday.

Reddy, who was recently given the charge of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), during the virtual meeting discussed the various aspects of development of the region comprising eight states.

An official from the Arunachal Chief Minister's Office (CMO) said that Khandu said during the meeting that Assam and Arunachal Pradesh have in principle agreed to sort out the inter-state boundary issue out-of-court for which the state government has already started its groundwork.

"The inter-state boundary issue has been pending for long. I have discussed it with my Assam counterpart Hemanta Biswa Sarma and we have agreed to go for an out-of-court solution to all issues related to our boundaries.

"In fact, we have already started working on the ground. If everything goes well in the next few months, we may see some concrete results towards instilling peace permanently along our boundaries," the CMO official said quoting the Chief Minister.

Inter-state boundary disputes between Assam, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Meghalaya, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh during the past several years have witnessed many violent activities and skirmishes among the security forces and the people living along the boundaries of these states.

Encroachment in the border areas, and various unlawful activities, including attacks and abductions, infrequently took place along the inter-state borders of the northeastern states, occasionally leading to major incidents.

The Central para-military forces have been deployed in some of the inter-state borders to prevent further escalation of violence.

Assam shares borders with six other northeastern states -- Nagaland (512.1 km), Arunachal Pradesh (804.1 km), Manipur (204.1 km), Mizoram (164.6 km), Tripura (46.3 km) and Meghalaya (884.9 km).

Mizoram Home Minister Lalchamliana had said earlier this week that the crops of Mizo farmers had been destroyed at Buarchep (in Kolasib district) by the Assam police last week and demanded adequate compensation by the Assam government.

Lalchamliana said that additional Mizoram police forces have been deployed in the affected areas to quell the public fear and ensure a sense of normalcy.

On his part, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that in order to free the encroached land from Mizo encroachers and for protection of land and citizens of Assam residing in the Assam-Mizoram border areas, all types of preventive measures, including patrolling and area domination, have been taken up.

Sarma said during the ongoing session of the state Assembly that 1,777 hectares of land in three districts of southern Assam -- Cahcar, Karimganj and Hailakandi -- have been encroached by Mizos.

The Chief Minister said that last week, a chief secretary-level meeting was held between Assam and Mizoram in New Delhi on the behest of the Union Home Ministry.

"All lawful steps are being taken to prevent encroachment in the Assam-Mizoram inter-state border," Sarma told the House.

Central paramilitary forces are maintaining security on both sides of the inter-state borders since the border troubles began in October last year.

According to Assam police, since October last year, several inter-state border skirmishes have taken place along the 164.6 km Assam-Mizoram border in which over 50 people were injured, one man was killed, besides causing large scale damage to property.
Mangaluru, July 15 : After a nearly 16-year-long chase, the Mangaluru police succeeded in nabbing a member of the gang of international underworld don, Chota Rajan, from Mumbai, police said on Thursday.

According to police, Chandrakant Poojary alias Annu, 55, hailing from Mulki in Mangaluru, had gone absconding after a case of assault was filed against him in 2005.

The police said that he was wanted for issuing threats to and assaulting a resident in Permude village in Mulki taluk.

According to the police, Annu and others had entered the house of Vishwanath Amin on the night of January 10, 2005, in Permude village under the Bajpe police village, and he and another man abused and assaulted family members, including with a bottle.

"The accused had also issued threats to harm the victim, and a case was registered at the Bajpe police station," a police officer said.

Police had even arrested an1 accused named Yogesh but Annu had evaded arrest by going into hiding.

On a tip-off, the Mangaluru police headed to Mumbai and found that the accused had changed his identity and was working as a vegetable vendor in Andheri.

Police claimed that Annu has cases registered against him for assault in Mumbai too. "In Mumbai, he became a close aide of Vasudeva aka Vamana who was Chota Rajan's companion and was killed in an encounter by the Mumbai police in 2004," the police added.

Further investigations are on.
Bengaluru, July 15 : Karnataka's Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Thursday launched raids on the houses and premises of nine government officers, who allegedly acquired assets illegally, across the state.

A team of about 300 ACB officials launched a simultaneous raid at 40 different places at Bengaluru, Mangaluru, Udupi, Malur, Bidar, Mandya, Vijayapura, and Ballari.

According to ACB sources, a team of officials raided the residence of Karnataka Rural Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (KRIDCL) Executive Engineer Krishna S. Hebsur at Doddanagude, Udupi, around 6 a.m.

ACB sleuths also raided the residence and office of Assistant Director, Urban Planning, H.R. Krishnappa at Malur, and were scrutinising the documents which were found.

Electrical inspector Vijay Kumar's house was raided by the officials and vital documents confiscated. It is said that several complaints were registered against Vijay Kumar in this regard.

ACB officials raided the house of Executive Engineer, Urban Development Unit, G. Sridhar, in Mangaluru, and intense inquiry is in progress.

Other officials whose houses were raided include KRIDCL's Bengaluru Chief Engineer, R.B. Kulakarni, Rural Development Junior Engineer (Bidar) Suresh Mohare, Social Forestry Department's Mandya TDCF Venkatesh, BESCOM Vijayanagar AEE Mallikarjun, and Senior Motor Vehicles Inspector Krishnamurthy.

The ACB claimed that they have recovered a huge cache of incriminating documents of properties and a huge quantity of gold ornaments and silver articles besides several cars and two-wheelers.

"We are in the process of documenting and assessing the actual values of seized properties. We are still in the process of freezing some of their accounts as well. We are also yet open their bank lockers as well," a top ACB officer told reporters.

The ACB has registered a case and investigations are still on.
Kolkata, July 16 : Amid talks of the opposition joining hands to counter Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee plans to go to Delhi later this month to meet the opposition leaders.

Though Banerjee termed it as a normal visit, her proposed visit to Delhi for the first time after her landslide victory in the Assembly polls has triggered speculation over her playing a bigger role in the opposition front in the next general elections.

Answering a question at the state secretariat Nabanna, Banerjee said, "I didn't go to Delhi after the elections. The Parliament session will start soon. The Covid-19 situation is also better. So I will go to Delhi during the Monsoon Session and meet some leaders there." The Monsoon Session of the Parliament will commence on July 19 and will continue till August 13.

When asked whether she will meet Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, the Chief Minister said, "I shall meet her (Sonia Gandhi). I will also meet some other leaders. I also want to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind, if I get appointment." Sources in the CMO said that the Chief Minister is likely to go to Delhi on July 25 and her visit might extend for even four days. Sources close to Banerjee also said that apart from Sonia Gandhi, she might meet several opposition leaders like Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, and Aam Aadmi Party chief and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, among others.

The Chief Minister's announcement is even more important because political strategist Prashant Kishor met Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday, besides conducting meetings with Sharad Pawar.

"It is not the right time yet to predict anything, but she (Banerjee) will surely judge the situation in the national capital. Her visit to Delhi certainly has a political significance," a senior Trinamool Congress leader said.

Talks of an anti-BJP front got revived after leaders of various political parties and prominent individuals congregated at NCP chief Sharad Pawar's New Delhi residence last month.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Chennai, July 16 : BJP's new Tamil Nadu state chief, K. Annamalai said that the state unit will stand by the state government on the Mekedatu dam issue.

"The Tamil Nadu state unit of the BJP will stand with the people of the state in the best interests of the state even though Karnataka is ruled by the BJP," he told media persons at Trichy en route to Chennai where he will assume office on Friday.

Stressing that Tamil Nadu should get its share of Cauvery water as stipulated by the Supreme Court, he also said that all concerned should sit together and resolve the issue.

Annamali said that two senior leaders of the state BJP are part of the all-party delegation led by Tamil Nadu Water Resources Minister, S. Duraimurugan to meet Union Jal Shakhi Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on the Mekedatu dam issue.

The former IPS officer was appointed as the BJP state unit President after incumbent L. Murugan was inducted in the Narendra Modi ministry as Minister of State in the recent reshuffle.
Bengaluru, July 16 : Around 23 companies in diverse sectors spanning aerospace, defence, electric vehicles and data centres signed an agreement with the Karnataka government to invest cumulatively Rs 28,000 crore and create over 15,000 direct jobs, an official said on Thursday.

The agreements were signed by representatives of the 20 firms with the state industries department in the presence of Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, state Deputy Chief Minister C.N. Ashwath Narayan and Industries Minister Jagadish Shettar at 'Invest Karnataka Conclave' in this tech city.

Among top companies which signed agreements to invest in the state are the US-based C4V (Rs 4,015 crore) to make Lithium ion batteries, Singapore-based LNG Alliance to set up a liquified natural gas terminal (Rs 2,250 crore) and Adani Data Centre (Rs 5,000 crore) to set up data centres.

"The agreements demonstrate the confidence of companies to invest in the state, which was severely affected by the Covid pandemic that broke out in mid-March a year ago," said Yediyurappa on the occasion.

Amid the pandemic's first and second waves since March 2020, the chief minister said the state government had cleared 520 projects with investment proposals worth Rs 77,000 crore during the last 14-15 months.

"In addition, there are investment proposals worth Rs 23,000 crore that are in the process for approvals. They will take the total investment proposals to Rs 1-lakh crore in the state," said Yediyurappa in his address at the conclave.

Of the total investment, proposals worth Rs 28,600 crore were received during the last 6 months amid the pandemic from leading Indian and global firms, said the official.

"We want to not only retain Karnataka as a global manufacturing hub, but also make the state a part of the global supply chain. As part of our strategy to go beyond Bengaluru, we are promoting tier-2 and tier-3 cities to attract investments in multiple sectors," said the chief minister.

As part of the new 5-year industrial policy (2020-2024), Shettar said the state government was developing a toy cluster at Koppal, consumer electronics cluster at Dharwad and pharmaceuticals cluster at Yadgir in the state's northwest and northern regions.

"As the state's economic and industrial development has been a priority for us, the new policy is investor-centric to build a prosperous Karnataka and create thousands of jobs," added Shettar.

The NITI Aayog think tank has ranked the southern state at the top of its Innovation Index in 2020 due to the availability of quality human resources, research and development (R&D) centres, reputed higher education institutes, proactive administration and conducive investment climate.

C4V chief executive officer Shailesh Upreti, LNG Alliance chief executive Muthu Chezhian, Adani Data Centre business head Sanjay Bhutani and Shree Cements president Sanjay Mehta participated in the conclave.
Chennai, July 16 : Newly-appointed Tamil Nadu BJP chief K. Annamalai has raked up a controversy by stating that the party would control the media in the state in six months' time.

The former IPS officer, who joined the BJP recently and is set to replace L. Murugan as Tamil Nadu BJP chief, was addressing a public meeting at Trichy on Thursday enroute Chennai where he will assume office as the party's state unit president on Friday.

Annamalai said that the media in Tamil Nadu has been criticising the BJP unnecessarily and the party would control the media in six months' time.

Amid applause from party cadres, the newly-appointed state unit chief said that his predecessor Murugan is now the Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and the media in the state would be soon under the control of the party.

He said the media has been attacking the BJP in the state continuously, without any substance.
Garient Evans, SVP, Identity Solutions, Trulioo "Reliance on digital services has skyrocketed. On average, consumers transacted with six new online brands last year" - Garient Evans, SVP, Identity Solutions, Trulioo

A new industry report, released by Trulioo, the leading global identity verification company, and One World Identity (OWI), examines the nuances of digital identity verification. In particular, it explores how adopting a consumer-centric and layered approach to digital identity verification according to specific markets is a key component in reducing onboarding friction, increasing security and forging stronger customer relationships.

The Driving Consumer-Centric Digital Identity to Speed Financial Growth report explores how the orchestration of different identity proofing techniques and risk signals is critical in identifying bad actors and differentiating them from legitimate users. Orchestration utilizes a host of alternative data sources that empower companies to continuously identify customers, reducing friction and providing a constant, clear view of customer identities. In turn, organizations can build long-lasting relationships with customers because they have established a positive brand reputation and a strong sense of trust and safety.

Reliance on digital services has skyrocketed. On average, consumers transacted with six new brands last year, said Garient Evans, SVP, Identity Solutions, Trulioo. Online businesses that incorporated digital identity verification were able to carry on without disruption to business operations and came out on top. Meanwhile, companies that lagged behind by still requiring in-person Customer Due Diligence were left scrambling to keep up with their counterparts at the forefront of digital transformation.

Other highlights from the report include:



The need for fraud, security, customer experience, and compliance teams to converge and eliminate data silos within organizations

How to ensure compliance with evolving and disparate data and consumer privacy standards, and how being transparent about data collection increases consumer trust and comfort levels with information sharing

The implications that adopting a consumer-centric approach has for companies in banking, travel, eCommerce and online marketplaces, healthcare and physical access management

Download the Driving Consumer-Centric Digital Identity to Speed Financial Growth report here.

On July 22, join Garient Evans and Cameron DAmbrosi, Managing Director, OWI, for a fireside chat as they discuss the reports findings. Register for the online event here.

About Trulioo

Trulioo is the leading global identity verification company building trust online so that businesses and consumers can transact safely and securely. Trulioos platform provides real-time verification of 5 billion consumers and 330 million business entities worldwide  all through a single API integration. Organizations rely on Trulioos identity verification solution, GlobalGateway, to help meet their business and compliance requirements and automate due diligence and fraud prevention workflows. The Trulioo mission is to help provide every person on the planet with a digital identity to enable access to basic financial services and support. For more information, visit trulioo.com.

About One World Identity

One World Identity (OWI) is a research and advisory firm focused on identity, trust, and the data economy. We help business leaders, governments, and investors stay ahead of market trends so they can build sustainable, forward-looking products and strategies.

We are a team of industry leaders, product managers, consultants, policy-makers, and strategists with years of experience in identity. Our effectiveness stems from our expertise  it forces us to propose solutions we know are capable of driving results. We have a team of big thinkers and tactical doers to help some of the best companies in identity to evolve and collaborate in this dynamic space. Our relationships with fellow change-makers across the identity landscape are the lifeblood of our organization. Our goal is not just to help our clients respond to the market; we help them define it.
We are excited to add this option technology to our facility as we continue to build on our Lung Cancer Screening Center of Excellence designation and offer a more hopeful future for our patients with lung cancer, said Dr. Michael Torres, Chief Medical Officer, AdventHealth Ocala.

AdventHealth Ocala is the 14th hospital in Florida and the first in Marion County to implement the innovative MONARCH platform to fight lung cancer. According to the manufacturer, the MONARCH technology integrates the latest advancements in robotics, software, data science, and endoscopy to find cancer in the lung in earlier stages. Combining traditional endoscopic views into the lung with computer-assisted navigation based on 3-D models of the patients own lung anatomy, the MONARCH Platform provides physicians with continuous vision of the lungs/nodules throughout the entire procedure.

We are excited to add this option technology to our facility as we continue to build on our Lung Cancer Screening Center of Excellence designation and offer a more hopeful future for our patients with lung cancer, said Dr. Michael Torres, Chief Medical Officer, AdventHealth Ocala. "We made a promise when we came to Ocala, to invest in the most advanced technology and the best doctors so that we could elevate the quality of care for this community, and this equipment is another fulfillment to that promise.

The navigation software is used to view the inside of the lungs and gives doctors the ability to see hard-to-reach lung nodules that other diagnostic equipment such as needle biopsy cannot get to. Lung cancer is the leading cause of death in the world in part because it is often found at an advanced stage.

We are focused on earlier detection and diagnosis of lung cancer to increase the chances of survival in our community, said Dr. Raj G. Karunakara, Medical Director of the Lung Health program at AdventHealth Ocala. By adding the MONARCH robotic technology, we now have the ability to diagnose lung cancer in those harder to reach peripheral nodules like never before - enhancing our ability to treat patients and help them return to a better quality of life.

The MONARCH Platform allows Dr. Raj Karunakara and Dr. Andrew Seevaratnam to navigate a small camera inserted into the lung through a patients mouth/airway and see more areas along the edge of the lungs with better reach, vision, and control for physicians.

Dr. Raj gave me two options, either try and stick a needle in the side of my lung and risk my lung collapsing or use this new equipment where theyd have better luck, said David Haswell, MONARCH patient at AdventHealth Ocala. They found it and now I know whats going on and have a plan to move forward.

AdventHealth Ocala is a designated Screening Center of Excellence for Lung Care by the GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer. The hospital has been recognized for its ongoing commitment to lung cancer screening and to complying with comprehensive standards based on best practices developed by professional organizations such as the American College of Radiology, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network and the International Early Lung Cancer Action Program.

About AdventHealth Ocala

AdventHealth Ocala is a 410-bed full-service community hospital that opened in 1898. In August 2018, AdventHealth Ocala became a part of the AdventHealth network. The facility is 640,000 square feet and sits on 15-acres. Within the hospital network there are two 24/7 ER facilities, one onsite and another offsite, to better meet the needs of Marion County. The onsite ER has both an adult and childrens emergency department that has over 50 combined beds with the ability to treat many conditions and injuries. Established in 2002, the offsite ER, AdventHealth TimberRidge ER, is a 24-hour full-service emergency department with 16 private rooms and was the first offsite ER in the state of Florida. The hospital offers many inpatient services including, labor and delivery through The Baby Place, Orthopedic unit, comprehensive cardiovascular surgery unit, and a wound care center. AdventHealth Ocala is accredited The Joint Commission and has received recognition from American Heart Association and American Stroke Association. They are accredited by the American College of Cardiology in Chest Pain, Heart Failure, Cardiac Cath Lab, Electrophysiology, Transcatheter Valve Certified and awarded the HeartCARE Center designation. They are also a Certified Advanced Primary Stroke Center as well as a Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery.
Principle Autos dedicated associate, Service Director, Allie Peters of Principle BMW of San Antonio and Principle MINI of San Antonio was named one of Automotive News 40 Under 40. This annual program honors 40 high achievers at new-car dealerships who are under 40 years old.

Automotive News received nominations from across the U.S. and identified outstanding performers in a large field of high-quality talent at dealerships. With a broad range of titles and backgrounds, this years list represents a diverse group of honorees. These bright stars were profiled in the July 12 issue of Automotive News, the leading news source for the global automotive industry.

The 40 Under 40 program honors dealership employees who display exceptional leadership skills and are top performers, said Amy Wilson, retail editor of Automotive News. The men and women on our 10th annual list have significant business achievements, and their dealership groups are all the stronger for it.

Principle Autos trusted Principle BMW and MINI of San Antonio Service center has a team of over 56 sales associates and 48 qualified service technicians who are a part of 250 sales associates standing by to help customers with any of their service-related needs. CEO, Abigail Kampmann contributes, Allie Peters is a shining example of how our Service team personifies our Guiding Principles - which includes hiring people with a great heart and a desire to improve peoples lives through unparalleled service. We are proud of Allie and that Principle Auto is synonymous with great customer care in every community we serve.

Honoree Allie Peters elaborates, "I was taught a long time ago that we were in the people business, we just happen to sell and service cars. And I can say without a doubt, I work with the best people. I am so grateful to be a part of the service team at Principle BMW and MINI of San Antonio. It is our entire team that has contributed to this success and we are delighted for the recognition. I am so honored to be recognized, and I look forward to making an impact at Principle Auto for years to come."

Principle BMW of San Antonio and Principle MINI of San Antonio are located at 15507, W IH-10, San Antonio, TX 78249, easily accessible from various highways in San Antonio. The complex is the largest BMW and MINI dealership in the nation with a solar plant, producing over 1,270,000 Whs each year, offsetting up to 60% of the dealership consumption. Along with these sustainability efforts, the dealership boasts many accolades such as, BMW Center of Excellence Award 5 out of the last 6 years awarded which recognizes the top 10% of BMW Dealers in the United States.

For complete information about Automotive News 40 Under 40, visit http://www.autonews.com/40under40. Ally, a leading digital financial services company, is the exclusive sponsor of this recognition program.

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About Principle Auto:

Principle Auto is an independent auto group headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, that operates a number of automotive dealerships in Texas, Tennessee, and Mississippi. While the group has been in business for over 50 years, a management restructure took place in 2014, which led to the formation of Principle Auto. Principle Auto strives to provide an environment for its associates and guests that is welcoming, transparent, and forward thinking. Principle Auto is the home of the Principle Promise: We respect you and the opportunity to serve you. We deliver exceptional value. We value your time. We take the risknever you. For more information visit: https://www.principleauto.com/ or LinkedIn :https://www.linkedin.com/company/principle-auto/
With two brick-and-mortar locationsin Portland, Maine, and Portsmouth, New HampshireBliss will open a third location in Kennebunk, Maine at 184 Port Road on July 16. Weve had our eyes on the vibrant Kennebunk community for a while nowand we cant wait to call it our third home.

For decades, Bliss has been helping women find the most comfortable, high-quality, elevated everyday essentials for their wardrobes. Known as one of New Englands most sought-after shopping destinations, Bliss carries premium brands like CP Shades, Frank & Eileen, Xirena, Trovata, Prairie Underground, Epice, Demylee, Citizens of Humanity, Mother Denim and more.

Bliss has been recognized by regional and national publications like New Hampshire Home magazine and RACKED for being one of the best boutiques in New England and was named one of the best boutiques in the country by ELLE. After one of the most challenging years for small businesses, they adapted, worked together, and have come out the other side stronger and more optimistic for brighter days ahead. As Bliss approaches its 20th year in business, they are thrilled and ready to share some exciting, positive changes happening throughout the summer.

With two brick-and-mortar locationsin Portland, Maine, and Portsmouth, New HampshireBliss will open a third location in Kennebunk, Maine at 184 Port Road on July 16, just in time for the height of summer. Weve had our eyes on the vibrant Kennebunk community for a while nowand we cant wait to call it our third home. This new location will carry many of the same brands that our Portland and Portsmouth stores are known for, but you can expect some new Kennebunk-only lines too, which were excited to announce soon, says Bliss owner Angela Foddrill. The Kennebunk store will be open Monday through Saturday from 10 am - 6 pm and Sunday 11 am to 6 pm. All of our stores, including this one, will continue to follow all Covid-19 guidelines and regulations as they evolve to keep you and our staff safe.

In addition, the Bliss Portland location will be moving later this year just a few doors down from 58 Exchange Street to 42 Exchange Street, the former home of its sister store, Little, which is currently in the process of relocating to a new space in the Old Port. There are so many reasons why this is the right move for us, but the biggest was creating a better shopping experience for our customers, says Foddrill. We are in the process of renovating this space to make it perfect for Bliss and make sure its as comfortable and inviting as possible.

In addition to these exciting changes for their stores, the Bliss brand has also undergone a brand refresh to reflect the brands evolution through the years. We worked extremely hard over the last eight months to better understand our brand, our customers, and what makes the Bliss experience unique and valuable. We were ready for a visual change that better reflects who Bliss is and what we offer, says Foddrill.

Its been a privilege getting to know our customers over the last two decades, helping them build wardrobes that make them feel stylish and comfortable. We feel honored to be a part of the small and mighty community of local business owners, and fortunate to weather the storm brought on by the pandemic. We have our loyal customers to thank for that. As our brick-and-mortar and online businesses grow, we look forward to continuing to help women elevate their every day.

About Bliss Boutiques:

In 2002, Angela and John Foddrill founded Bliss in the heart of Portland, Maine. As former MECA students with backgrounds in art, the two developed an eye for clothing that was as functional as it was beautiful and shared a passion for creating aesthetically minded spaces for joyful shopping. Today, Bliss has three brick-and-mortar locations; in Kennebunk, Maine, Portland, Maine, and Portsmouth, New Hampshire, as well as a robust online store that ships across the country. Bliss is rooted in the idea that everyday wear should be special, high-quality, long-lasting, beautiful, and comfortable. Featuring premium clothing and accessory brands like CP Shades, Frank & Eileen, Xirena, Trovata, Prairie Underground, Clare V, Velvet, Frye, Demylee, Epice, and more, Bliss is one of New England's most sought-after womens clothing boutiques, season after season. With deep expertise in denim, Bliss offers a wide variety of brands like AG Adriano Goldschmied, Edwin, AMO, AGOLDE, Citizens of Humanity, Mother Denim, and more. Our staff members are well-versed in denim and ready to share their know-how in all things jeans, from selection and fit to styling and care. Bliss exists to empower women to elevate their everyday and feel confident, stylish, and uniquely themselves. Learn more at https://www.blissboutiques.com/

Press Contact:

Georgina Rose

Georgina@WeAreHelmDigital.Com
The Association for Talent Development (ATD) is redesigning its conference experience to give the global talent development community multiple ways to participate in the ATD 2021 International Conference & Exposition. Along with the in-person event, August 29September 1, 2021, in Salt Lake City, Utah, there will be at least eight regional events around the world and a virtual component to give the entire TD community the opportunity to attend the worlds largest talent development conference.

The in-person conference, known as ATD21 HQ, will have a capped attendance and follow all recommended state and local health protocols. It will include more than 250 live sessions, an active EXPO floor, networking opportunities, and access to the virtual conference platform.

The ATD21 Regional Eventsorganized by ATD chapters, international partners, and otherswill feature a live stream of select conference programming. In addition, each regional organizer will design a local program of events to meet the learning and networking needs of attendees.

The third option for ATD 2021 is a virtual conference called ATD21@Home. Attendees will enjoy a live stream from the conference, which will include keynote speakers and 45 sessions from Salt Lake City. There also will be virtual-only content, exclusive speaker Q&As, and networking opportunities.

Bestselling author Angela Duckworth will open the event. Her book, Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, is a number 1 New York Times bestseller. Her TED Talk, which is based on her book, is among the most viewed of all time.

Patrick Lencioni, founder and president of The Table Group, will speak on the second day of ATD 2021. His classic book, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, remains a fixture on national bestseller lists, and his most recent book, The Motive: Why So Many Leaders Abdicate Their Most Important Responsibilities, was released in February 2020.

Mel Robbins, international bestselling author of The 5 Second Rule and four number 1 audiobooks on Audible, will close out ATD 2021. Robbins is a television host, CNN contributor, and motivational speaker.

To learn more about the conference and to register, visit atdconference.td.org.

About ATD

The Association for Talent Development (ATD) is the worlds largest professional membership organization supporting those who develop the knowledge and skills of employees, improve performance, and help to achieve results for the organizations they serve. Established in 1943, the association was previously known as the American Society for Training & Development (ASTD).

ATDs members come from more than 120 countries and work in public and private organizations in every industry sector. ATD supports talent development professionals who gather locally in volunteer-led US chapters and international member networks, and with international strategic partners.

For more information, visit td.org.


Our Perfect Storm: a deeply personal revelation of the frustrating and traumatic search for answers after her husband fell victim to an elusive and seemingly incurable infection. Our Perfect Storm is the creation of published author Naomi Thomas, an identical twin, mother, and registered nurse who married her high school sweetheart. After four years of working as a nurse, she resigned from her job to become a full-time caregiver for her veteran husband, Chad.

On the battlefield the military pledges to leave no soldier behind. As a Nation, let it be our pledge that when they return home, we leave no Veteran behind.

Dan Lipinski

We told them that we did not want anyone to get in trouble. We told them that we just wanted to find out what was really wrong with Chad and get on with our lives. We told them that we wanted the nightmare to be over with. We were exhausted, we were broken, we were almost defeated

Naomi first described what happened to them as a nightmare. Looking back years later, she realizes that it was not a nightmare; it was a perfect storm.

This is a true story of how an Army Veteran was misdiagnosed, mistreated, and almost lost his leg and his life. This is a story of how his wife/nurse/patient advocate fought for him. This is a story of how this tragedy led them to Jesus and how their lives were forever changed.

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Naomi Thomass new book is an illuminating story of perseverance and faith for a woman determined to save her husband from a potentially life-threatening infection.

View a synopsis of Our Perfect Storm on YouTube.

Consumers can purchaseOur Perfect Storm at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about Our Perfect Storm, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.


Phillip Amos, a lifelong Georgia resident who designed and built carpet machinery for twenty-five years before retiring to farm 150 acres with his wife, Cathy, has completed his new book Whip-Poor-Will: a charmingly illustrated tale for children of all ages.

Sometimes God can be your best friend or closest relative along with some of his animal creations. Come along with us on an eventful journey between a cute small beagle and a song-filled Whippoorwill bird who are looking for their older friend. See how patience, will power, and faith can come together to allow miracles to happen!

Published by Page Publishing, Phillip Amoss engrossing book is a delightful addition to any childrens library.

Readers who wish to experience this engaging work can purchase Whip-Poor-Will at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes Store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or media inquiries, contact Page Publishing at 866-315-2708.

About Page Publishing:

Page Publishing is a traditional, full-service publishing house that handles all the intricacies involved in publishing its authors books, including distribution in the worlds largest retail outlets and royalty generation. Page Publishing understands that authors should be free to create, not mired in logistics like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes, and so on. Pages accomplished writers and publishing professionals allow authors to leave behind these complex and time-consuming issues and focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at http://www.pagepublishing.com.


BlackArch Partners (BlackArch) is pleased to announce the sale of Nationwide Industries (Nationwide or the Company), a portfolio company of Harbour Group, to PrimeSource Brands (PrimeSource), a portfolio company of Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. (together with its affiliates, Clearlake).

Nationwide, headquartered in Tampa, FL, is a premier provider of branded outdoor and security hardware and component systems, including fence and gate hardware, railing components and infill systems and perimeter security hardware. The Company has a broad portfolio of feature-rich component solutions with over 8,000 SKUs sold to more than 3,000 customers across multiple levels of the outdoor living value chain. Nationwide is well-aligned with favorable and sustainable economic tailwinds and consumer trends emphasizing residential repair and remodel and investments in outdoor living.

BlackArch was retained by Nationwide and Harbour Group to serve as the Companys exclusive financial advisor. The transaction builds upon BlackArchs significant momentum in the building products sector and is a further example of the firms ability to drive superior outcomes for market-leading manufacturers pioneering product innovation in the rapidly evolving residential and outdoor living sectors.

About Nationwide Industries

Nationwide, through its subsidiaries, is a supplier of specialty hardware to OEMs, distributors, and installers in the fence and gate, railing and patio markets. Nationwides brands include Nationwide Industries, Ultra-tec, RailFX and LockeyUSA. Based in Tampa, Nationwides products include a broad line of fence and gate hardware, railing component and infill systems, perimeter security components, custom building material components sold on an OEM basis and hardware for the patio industry. For more information, please visit http://www.nationwideindustries.com.

About Harbour Group

Harbour Group is a privately owned, operations focused company based in St. Louis, Missouri. Harbour Groups companies are engaged in manufacturing and distribution across diverse industries including control solutions, remote monitoring solutions, fence and gate hardware systems, interior wallcoverings and fabrics, LED lighting, flow control, scientific products and lab ware, thermal management solutions, boiler systems, professional diagnostic and repair tools, stainless fittings, and auxiliary plastic processing equipment. Since its founding in 1976, Harbour Group has acquired 216 companies in 47 different industries. For more information, please visit http://www.harbourgroup.com.

About PrimeSource

PrimeSource is a leading national provider of specialty branded residential building products. The Company's product offering spans more than 60,000 SKUs, including construction fasteners, cabinet knobs and pulls and functional hardware, among others. PrimeSource operates an expansive footprint, serving over 43,000 customer locations through 50 strategically located distribution centers in 31 states. PrimeSource plays a crucial role for its customers who rely on its brand value, breadth of offering and logistics capabilities. For more information, please visit http://www.primesourcebp.com.

About Clearlake Capital Group, L.P.

Founded in 2006, Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. is an investment firm operating integrated businesses across private equity, credit and other related strategies. With a sector-focused approach, the firm seeks to partner with experienced management teams by providing patient, long term capital to dynamic businesses that can benefit from Clearlake's operational improvement approach, O.P.S. The firm's core target sectors are industrials, technology and consumer. Clearlake currently has approximately $39 billion of assets under management, and its senior investment principals have led or co-led over 300 investments. The firm has offices in Santa Monica and Dallas. More information is available at http://www.clearlake.com and on Twitter @ClearlakeCap.

About BlackArch Partners

BlackArch Partners is a leading middle-market investment bank offering a full spectrum of advisory services to financial sponsors, private companies and diversified corporations. BlackArch addresses the needs of owner-operators, founders and shareholders of private companies with specialized services that include M&A advisory, strategic advisory and private capital solutions. Headquartered in Charlotte, NC, BlackArch features a total of 12 industry-focused practices that cover all sectors of interest to middle-market investors; BlackArch professionals have closed more than 350 transactions in 16 countries on four continents. Please visit our website, http://www.blackarchpartners.com, for more details.

Securities offered through BlackArch Securities LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. Testimonials may not be representative of the experience of all clients. Testimonials are not a guarantee of future performance or success.
Altronix is an enterprise powerhouse and our dealers put their trust in Altronix, so partnering with them felt like a natural next step to better serve our growing enterprise customer base, said Steve Van Till, CEO and founder of Brivo.

Brivo, the global leader in cloud-based access control and smart building technologies, today announced a strategic partnership with Altronix, the recognized leader in low voltage power and data transmission products for professional security applications. Brivo will now offer Altronix Trove Integrated Power Solutions supporting Brivo control panels through its network of over 1,500 authorized dealers. These integrated solutions will give Brivo dealers more flexibility in powering controllers, readers, locks, and other peripheral devices. The partnership expands the Brivo ecosystem of hardware and API partners to give customers more options when selecting solution components for their Brivo implementation.

Altronix is an enterprise powerhouse and our dealers put their trust in Altronix, so partnering with them felt like a natural next step to better serve our growing enterprise customer base, said Steve Van Till, CEO and founder of Brivo. Providing more choice for customers is critical in todays world. Were committed to ensuring that customers benefit from Brivos open platform to make the business decisions that work best for their needs.

Our mutual customers will benefit substantially with these integrated power solutions, simplifying deployments for enterprise customers, said Alan Forman, President, Altronix Corp. This strategic partnership will provide many advantages for dealers and their customers.

The Brivo-Altronix alliance reflects Brivos mission to forge trusted partnerships with category leaders. Brivo partners bring diverse expertise as resellers, technology partners, developers and specifiers. In choosing Brivo, dealers and customers can make associated vendor decisions with confidence.

Information on how to become a Brivo partner is available here.

About Brivo

Brivo is the global leader in mobile, cloud-based access control for commercial real estate, multifamily residential, and large distributed enterprises. Our comprehensive product ecosystem and open API provide businesses with powerful digital tools to increase security automation, elevate employee and tenant experience, and improve the safety of all people and assets in the built environment. Having created the category over twenty years ago, our building access platform is now the digital foundation for the largest collection of customer facilities in the world, trusted by more than 25 million users occupying over 300M square feet of secured space in 42 countries.

Our dedication to simply better security means providing the best technology and support to property owners, managers, and tenants as they look for more from buildings where they live, work, and play. Our comprehensive product suite includes access control, smart readers, touchless mobile credentials, visitor management, occupancy monitoring, health and safety features, and integrated video surveillance, smart locks, and intercoms. Valued for its simple installation, high-reliability backbone, and rich API partner network, Brivo also has the longest track record of cybersecurity audits and privacy protections in the industry.

Brivo is privately held and headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland. Learn more at http://www.Brivo.com.

About Altronix

Altronix Corporation is the leading designer and manufacturer of quality low voltage electronics for the video surveillance, security, fire, access control and automation markets that deliver More than just power. Altronix corporate headquarters and manufacturing is located in Brooklyn, NY, occupying approximately 200,000 square feet with the latest manufacturing technologies providing the highest levels of quality and reliability. Altronix is an ISO 9001 registered firm. Altronix products are manufactured in the U.S.A. and carry a lifetime warranty.


BroadSource Group Pty Ltd today announced the General Availability (GA) of EMU 5.9. Of special interest, to the BroadSource customer base, is the addition of EMU for Webex. This new technology saves significant time and cost for Global Service Providers who have a pressing need to transition their customers from the End of Life BroadWorks Collaboration software to the Cisco Webex for BroadWorks replacement.

Speaking at the BroadSource EMU 5.9 product launch, Michael Gliana, BroadSource CTO commented, It would normally be a significant undertaking for our Global Service Provider customers to take advantage of the latest Webex client application for their BroadWorks platform. We set ourselves the task to remove the impact on their IT and engineering teams and provide a seamless integration between their provisioning systems, their BroadWorks platform and now Ciscos Control Hub, the place where Webex is managed.

Cisco BroadWorks based Service Providers are currently planning their transition from the End of Life BroadWorks Collaboration technology to the new Cisco Webex for BroadWorks service.

Two critical decisions need to be made:

1. How to provision new customers and orchestrate the provisioning of services both on BroadWorks, and now Webex, without an expensive and elongated IT project and;

2. How to migrate existing customers in a timely and economical way

EMU 5.9 addresses these two critical challenges with real time, secure and scalable integration into BroadWorks and Cisco Control Hub.

The EMU Provision, Audit, Update and Migrate functions are now Webex aware, allowing Service Providers to deploy or update millions of desktops, smartphones and tablets with the new Webex for BroadWorks service. Some of our customers pre-ordered EMU for Webex in anticipation of the 5.9 release and are achieving great outcomes. We are really happy with the results. Gliana said.

About EMU. Get Them to Cloud. Make Them Use It.

EMU is an Extraction, Manipulation and Update (EMU) platform developed by BroadSource, that specialises in the management and integration of Cloud Collaboration platforms.



It enables Global Services Providers to ensure they efficiently get customers to Cloud and;

Creates Adaptive UC Experiences that make them use the Cloud service

About BroadSource

BroadSource is a world leader in software development and engineering for the globes most sophisticated Service Providers and Enterprise businesses. BroadSource specialises in the software development, design, build, testing, integration of cloud collaboration and contact centres. The team has its roots in telecommunications and contact centre technology.

With offices in Melbourne, London, Seattle, Dusseldorf and Delhi, BroadSource delivers products and services to customers in Europe, North and South America, Africa and Asia.

BroadSource Media Contact

Jacqui Thals

marketing@broadsource.com.au
Matt Smith Captures growth is based on the solid foundation of its first decade of service to hundreds of campuses. I look forward to working with our current and future institutions as we partner together to transform the enrollment decision journey. - Matt Smith, Capture Chief Operating Officer

Capture Higher Ed has hired ed tech veteran Matt Smith as its new chief operating officer. He will help oversee solution and service delivery to Captures clients  higher education institutions of all kinds  helping them identify, convert and enroll their future students.

After more than 25 years working directly with students and the technologies that they interact with during the admissions and enrollment cycle, I have found my new home at Capture, Smith said. The amazing team of dynamic professionals at Capture are experts in the student journey, assisting institutions as they engage students by making lasting personalized connections.

Smith comes to Capture after almost nine years at Parchment, Inc., a Scottsdale, Ariz.-based provider of academic credential solutions for schools and universities. During his tenure, Smith ascended from solution consultant to chief of staff and senior director of operations and was a key contributor in transforming Parchment into the nations leading credential solution. Prior to Parchment, he was a consultant with Datatel as well as an associate director of admissions and outreach at Georgetown University.

Smith began his higher education career working as a student employee within the admissions office at his alma mater, Chapman University in Orange, Calif.

Little did I know that my first on-campus job as an 18-year-old freshman would lead to a lifelong journey of supporting students along their academic journey, Smith said.

Capture CEO Leonard Napolitano said Smith was asked to join the company because of his talent and expertise in the ed tech sector as well as his experience with fast-growing companies.

Matts approach in his previous roles has contributed to rapid growth in the education vertical, Napolitano said. His belief in what were doing at Capture and his ability to reimagine how we serve our client institutions are just some of the reasons he was chosen for this important role.

Smith said his goal as chief operating officer is to provide leadership, support and guidance as Capture continues its upward trajectory as the industrys leading marketing and recruitment company.

Captures growth is based on the solid foundation of its first decade of service to hundreds of campuses, Smith said. I look forward to working with our current and future institutions as we partner together to transform the enrollment decision journey.

Smith graduated from Chapman University in 2000 with a bachelors degree in political science. He earned a master of liberal arts in American Studies from Georgetown University in 2004.

Available for Comment

Leonard Napolitano, Capture CEO

Matt Smith, Capture COO

About Capture

Capture Higher Ed is a leading enrollment management and marketing firm that helps higher education institutions enrollment and advancement organizations make personalized, data-driven, timely and measured connections with prospective students and donors. Powered by the industrys only Behavioral Intelligence Platform  combining marketing automation, predictive modeling and a managed service approach  Captures marketing solutions and expert services are designed to identify, convert and enroll the right students and attract the right donors for colleges and universities. Founded in 2011, Capture has served hundreds of institutions across the country while being recognized by Inc. 5000 as a fastest-growing U.S. company.
Clipchamp has had explosive growth, nearly tripling our team in the past year. We're acquiring two times more users than we did at the same time a year ago while also doubling the usage rate, meaning more users are creating video content than ever before, said Clipchamp CEO Alexander Dreiling.

Today, Clipchamp  one of the first and only browser-first video creation, editing, and production platforms  announced significant company and user growth, as well as its just-launched app for the next generation of Windows, which is currently a featured app in Microsofts Insider Preview Build. Clipchamp now has 17 million registered users on its platform across 390,000+ companies, a year over year (YOY) increase of 54%.

In the first half of 2021, Clipchamps video exports skyrocketed 186% YOY. This is a result of the pandemic-necessitated increase in remote work that required employees to create videos more frequently for activities that they would normally conduct in-person, such as trainings, town hall addresses and other corporate communications. As both businesses and the general population started creating more videos than ever before, they sought out multi-purpose, integrated tools instead of one-off solutions. Clipchamp saw the largest increases for videos exported in the 16:9 aspect ratio (up 189%), 9:16 aspect ratio for TikTok or Instagram stories (up 140%) and 1:1 aspect ratio for instagram (up 72%). In addition, screen recording usage is up 57% and webcam recording usage is up 65% since January 2021.

Clipchamp has had explosive growth, nearly tripling our team in the past year. We are acquiring two times more users on average than we did at the same time a year ago while also doubling the usage rate, meaning more users are creating video content than ever before, said Clipchamp CEO Alexander Dreiling. While social media videos have always been at the forefront of business needs, during the past year weve also witnessed the rapid adoption of internal communication use cases where there is a lot of screen and webcam recording taking place in our platform. The need for video templates has also accelerated, with templates usage up more than 180% YOY, because they allow users with limited video editing skills and time to create a professional-grade video within minutes.

To accommodate the rapid growth on its platform and make using Clipchamp even easier for video creators, the company developed a Clipchamp app specifically for Windows users, which is currently a featured app in the Microsoft Store as part of their Insider Preview Build. Now, instead of opening a browser, video creators can simply head to the Microsoft Store, install Clipchamps app and immediately begin creating video projects. On the heels of Clipchamps integration with Microsoft OneDrive to help customers organize their files for easy editing and collaborating across different locations and devices, this new Windows app further solidifies Clipchamps integration with Microsoft, with more native capabilities & optimizations to come.

The launch of Clipchamp in the Microsoft Store on Windows is part of Microsoft's strategy to move forward with publishers who offer PWA-compatible full web applications and bring them to the Store, said Pierre Lagarde, principal program manager at Microsoft. PWA applications on Windows offer many advantages such as automatic login, easier integration with services like OneDrive and higher user engagement. This is facilitated using PWABuilder, which allows users to transform a website into an app in one click.

Clipchamp consolidates and simplifies the entire video development process, from ideation and collaboration to publishing, into one streamlined, easy-to-use solution. Its browser-first technology allows video creators to immediately edit their videos without the hassle of waiting for large video file uploads, enabling consumers as well as businesses, like Zendesk, to create impactful and professional-grade videos 15 times faster than with traditional tools. In addition, Clipchamps deep product integrations with partners including Google, Microsoft, Dropbox, Box and Pinterest provide users with a more seamless, accessible video creation experience. Clipchamp inspires working professionals with any level of experience to start creating, editing, and publishing visually stunning, memorable business videos  from customer testimonials and sales presentations to product marketing content and internal communications  in minutes at a fraction of the cost of external studios.

To learn more about Clipchamp and sign up, please visit https://clipchamp.com/en/. For more details on Clipchamps Windows Video Editor, visit https://clipchamp.com/en/windows-video-editor/.

About Clipchamp

Clipchamp is the first and only in-browser video creation, editing, and production platform enabling businesses to create impactful, professional-grade videos 15 times faster than with traditional tools. Used by 17 million registered customers worldwide and tens of thousands of businesses every week, Clipchamp is the go-to browser-based video platform for business. Clipchamp consolidates and simplifies the entire video production process, from ideation and collaboration to publishing, into one streamlined, easy-to-use solution. It can be used to create any video a business may need, from customer testimonials, product demos, and sales presentations to investor pitches, internal training, marketing materials, and more. Partners include Google, Dropbox, and Box and integrations include Zoom, Microsoft, and Pinterest, among others. The company is trusted by customers including Zendesk, as well as 5 of the top 10 Fortune 500 companies. Founded in 2014, Clipchamp is headquartered in Brisbane, Australia. For more information and to sign up, visit https://clipchamp.com/.
"DCA is the ideal partner to help us take our practice to the next level, says Dr. Mohit as their experience and the systems they have to offer will be invaluable as our practice continues to grow.

Dental Care Alliance (DCA) announces the addition of Naylors Court Dental Partners to its growing family of allied practices. For over 15 years, Naylors Court Dental Partners has been proudly delivering high-quality, comprehensive general dentistry to the community of Pikesville, MD and its surrounding areas.

Led by the innovative husband and wife team of Drs. Mohit and Jennifer Virmani, the Naylors Court group is focused on providing world-class preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, utilizing the latest techniques and most current technologies in dental care for the families in the Pikesville area. "DCA is the ideal partner to help us take our practice to the next level, says Dr. Mohit as their experience and the systems they have to offer will be invaluable as our practice continues to grow.

The addition of Naylors Court Dental Partners brings DCAs footprint in Maryland to 19 allied practices. This marks DCAs third affiliation in 2021 so far, and aggressive growth is expected in the remainder of the year. DCAs partnership approach to affiliation is appealing to entrepreneurial doctors interested in allying with a growth-oriented team of experts with a proven track record to significantly and seamlessly transition practices while unlocking untapped practice growth potential.

We are excited to partner with the Naylors Court Dental team. Their commitment to superb patient care is evident, and fits perfectly with our existing network of allied general and specialty practices in Maryland, says Grady Wilson, DCA VP of Development. Adds Dave Pegg, DCAs Chief Development Officer, We are seeing a tremendous amount of interest in exploring our unique approach to partnerships and affiliation. I expect the momentum to continue and the pace of growth within DCA to increase significantly in the coming months.

Dental Care Alliances mission is to advance the practice of dentistry by partnering with and supporting dental professionals to create a lifetime of healthy smiles. DCA currently supports 335 allied practices and more than 750 dentists across 20 states. DCAs allied practices represent all dental specialties and treat patients under more than 85 brand names.

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"ESP acquired the GeoDecisions Track SaaS product, renaming it the Track and Trace Platform, to enhance the productivity of supply chain businesses and extend our mission to form the backbone of a tech-enabled visibility platform," said Jonathan Rosenthal, CEO of ESP Logistics Technology.

ESP Logistics Technology (ESP), a SaaS solutions firm that provides disparate logistics operating systems with a common intraoperative supply chain connectivity platform, is today announcing that it has formed an equity partnership with Gannett Fleming and acquired the firm's GeoDecisions Track platform. Saybrook Management, a strategic investor, operator, and advisor in logistics, productivity enhancement, and technology for the past 30 years, led the technology acquisition and joint venture transaction.

Today, less than 1% of containers, pallets, trucks, chassis, and ships within the supply chain ecosystem produce actionable geospatial information. Simultaneously, the supply chain is strained, with excessive ships at anchor, terminal congestion, long lines of trucks, and gridlocked highways. Even with supply chain operating systems evolving at a rapid pace, these technologies exist in silos and miss one key element: aggregation to make sound business decisions. ESP, a logistics partner of Esri, the world leader in location intelligence, uses location to weave a common thread of interoperability.

"ESP acquired the GeoDecisions Track SaaS product, renaming it the Track and Trace Platform, to enhance the productivity of supply chain businesses and extend our mission to form the backbone of a tech-enabled visibility platform," said Jonathan Rosenthal, CEO of ESP Logistics Technology. "The company's progressive SaaS solutions enhance knowledge in the flow of goods and help equip decision-makers with the data they need for logistics and supply chain planning."

GeoDecisions is a division of Gannett Fleming, a global infrastructure and engineering firm that provides progressive solutions for transportation, earth sciences and natural resources, geospatial, water, power, construction services, and facilities projects. The company's ability to connect communities to solve complex challenges complements the mission of ESP.GeoDecisions works with commercial and governmental organizations to utilize the latest geospatial technology, powering innovation through location.

"GeoDecisions is the premier leader in transportation logistics, with more than 30 years of award-winning solutions," said Bob Scaer, chairman of the board and CEO of Gannett Fleming. "Our innovative platforms have supported the U.S. military through multiple global conflicts, ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of critical resources, protecting our armed forces around the world, and saving millions of dollars."

This collaboration exemplifies how innovation partnerships can come together within the Esri partner ecosystem to solve critical business problems, said Cindy Elliott, Esris Business Sector Industry Lead who helps with global go-to-market strategy and management. With the long-term needs of the supply industry in mind, this relationship with ESP and Gannett Fleming is an example of how complementary industry heavy hitters can more efficiently create change through partnership.

About ESP

ESP's mission is to harness the intelligence of anonymized pools of data to provide industry-wide visibility and predictability that will produce lean supply chains. The flow of goods, from manufacturing and shipping to warehousing and trucking, is a connected ecosystem that currently exists in disparate silos. With services that include geospatial technology and building a data pipeline, the vision is to unearth insights to unlock flow in the logistics and supply chain industries.

ESP plans to deliver a compelling environment for developers to build solutions for thousands of logistics challenges. In February of 2021, Saybrook and Esri announced a strategic alliance to innovate in the logistics industry, enabling transparency, standardization, and advanced analytics across all channels of a connected digital and physical global supply chain ecosystem. ESP's growing influence is supported by GeoDecisions' cloud-based geospatial asset tracking software, Track, that visualizes, manages and analyzes assets. The dashboards and reports provide supply chain decision makers the ability to track assets securely.

About Saybrook

Saybrook is an investment management firm founded in 1990 in Los Angeles, California, having invested, incubated, or managed more than $200 billion in assets across more than 100 companies. Saybrook holds discretion over assets for some of the world's largest and most respected public pension funds, corporations, endowments, foundations, family offices, and individuals. Our focus is on investments in logistics operations and technology that drive efficiencies, leverage Geospatial Intelligence and reduce environmental impacts.

About Gannett Fleming

Founded in 1915, Gannett Fleming is a global infrastructure and engineering firm that provides progressive solutions for construction services, earth sciences, facilities, geospatial, power, transportation, and water projects. We consistently rank among the industry's top design firms and embrace sustainability, innovation, and advanced solutions to solve our clients' complex challenges and improve the communities they serve. Our 2,500+ employees deliver excellence in planning, design, technology, and project management from more than 60 offices around the world. We are ISO 9001:2015Certified, which assures clients that we meet the most rigorous and independently audited quality standards. Gannett Fleming achieved $643 million in revenues in 2020. For more information, visit http://www.gannettfleming.com.

About Esri

Esri, the global market leader in geographic information system (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping, helps customers unlock the full potential of data to improve operational and business results. Founded in 1969 in Redlands, California, USA, Esri software is deployed in more than 350,000 organizations globally and in over 200,000 institutions in the Americas, Asia and the Pacific, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, nonprofits, and universities. Esri has regional offices, international distributors, and partners providing local support in over 100 countries on six continents.With its pioneering commitment to geospatial information technology, Esri engineers the most innovative solutions for digital transformation, the Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced analytics. Visit us at esri.com.
FayeBSG Named to 2021 VAR 100 List by Accounting Today As we all start to come out of the COVID-19 pandemic, its become even more apparent how important being able to integrate accounting technology with other powerful software solutions has become, said David Faye, CEO of Faye.

Faye, a global leader in software strategy, deployment and integration, has announced it has earned a spot on the top 100 value-added resellers list by Accounting Today for the third consecutive year.

As we all start to come out of the COVID-19 pandemic, its become even more apparent how important being able to integrate accounting technology with other powerful software solutions has become, said David Faye, CEO of Faye.

Businesses across the world felt the weight of having disjointed technologies when they became even more reliant on them. We are proud to be named to Accounting Todays VAR 100 list for the third consecutive year and to be able to work with companies needing to build better, more connected solutions.

This elite list is comprised of the leading VARs in the accounting space for the year. Companies selected are recognized for their insights in the market, the success, and direction their clients are heading in, and their expertise in the technologies that are shaping the future of the industry.

In addition to being SugarCRMs Global Partner of the Year in 2021 and Zendesk Development partner of the year, Faye is the preeminent integrator of CRM platforms with accounting and ERP software.

Fayes software integration line up including integrating SugarCRM, Salesforce, and Zendesk with accounting platforms, such as:



Sage 100

QuickBooks

SAP

Oracle

Epicor

Acumatica

Infor

NetSuite

Visit https://www.fayebsg.com to learn more about Faye software integrations for Accounting and ERP software platforms.

For a full list of Accounting Todays 2021 Var 100, visit: https://www.accountingtoday.com/data/the-2021-accounting-today-var-100.

ABOUT FAYE BUSINESS SYSTEMS GROUP

Faye is a global leader in software strategy, deployment, integrations and ongoing management for mid-market companies through to enterprise.

An Inc. 5000 award winner seven years in a row, the Faye team works with brands in more than 25 countries to optimize and integrate CRM, CX, marketing automation and ERP platforms into complex tech stacks.

Headquartered in California and with teams across four continents, Faye makes the best software in the world even better by supporting Zendesk, SugarCRM, Salesforce, HubSpot, and more.

As the Zendesk Development partner of the year and SugarCRM Americas Reseller of the Year, Fayes depth of expertise is showcased through a library of custom-built software enhancements, tools and integrations used by hundreds of thousands of users every day.

AXIA by Faye, launched in 2020, has been hailed as the next step in software management methodology. AXIA bundles Fayes entire IP, capabilities and pre-built software enhancements into one monthly or annual subscription.


FLAVORx Auto The FLAVORx Auto is a game changing approach to time-savings and efficiency in the pharmacy

FlavorMaster, LLC, today announced the formation of a new company focused on improving pharmacy efficiency, reducing workload for pharmacists, and enhancing the patient experience. This new entity combines FLAVORx, Fillmaster, and FillPure, into one larger and integrated company called FlavorMaster, LLC, which will be based in Columbia, Maryland. The motivation for the merger was the demonstrated success and rapid acceptance of the new FLAVORx Auto dispensing system. The FLAVORx Auto automates both reconstitution and flavoring of liquid medications, saving pharmacists time and allowing parents to choose the best taste for their childs medicine.

The FLAVORx Auto is a game changing approach to time-savings and efficiency in the pharmacy, said Stuart R. Amos, President and CEO of the newly formed FlavorMaster, LLC. The rapid adoption of this technology, combined with the measurably positive impact it is having in pharmacies, made the decision to merge FLAVORx, Fillmaster, and FillPure an easy one.

The FLAVORx Auto is installed in over 2,000 pharmacies across the U.S., including CVS, Giant Eagle, HEB, King Soopers, Kinney Drug, Kroger Cincinnati, Kroger Nashville, Publix, and Smiths pharmacies. The technology is proving to be an important tool to help pharmacies save time and provide exceptional service in todays lean, highly competitive retail pharmacy environment. With demand for antibiotics expected to climb sharply as children return to daycare and school this Fall, consolidating product development, sales, marketing, and service under one roof ensures FLAVORx Autos are delivered to pharmacies on time and of consistently high quality to meet that demand. Importantly, the FillPure field service operations are now integrated with FLAVORx and Fillmaster, ensuring the FLAVORx Auto is maintained properly and water quality in pharmacies consistently exceeds USP guidelines.

About FlavorMaster

FlavorMaster, LLC supplies medication compliance solutions, pharmacy automation technology, water filtration systems, and equipment maintenance programs to over 45,000 retail pharmacies, hospitals, and veterinary clinics across North America. The company's brands include FLAVORx, FLAVORx for Pets, Fillmaster, FillPure, and Pill Glide.
One of the biggest aspects of advancing the health IT industry is through data, which is why the recent collaboration with Amazon Web Services is so crucial and exciting.

Greenway Health, a leading health information technology services provider, announced its support for the AWS for Health initiative from Amazon Web Services (AWS). The initiative has accelerated software deployment for solutions such as Greenway Insights and Greenway Telehealth, as well as digital innovation for the more than 54,000 healthcare providers the organization serves.

AWS for Health is an initiative featuring services and solutions from AWS and AWS Partners, built specifically for healthcare, biopharma, and genomics customers. The initiative makes it easier for health customers to select the right tools and partners for their highest-priority workloads across the health communities. For customers looking to accelerate deployments with solution-specific support, AWS for Health also identifies dedicated AWS health industry specialists, AWS Professional Services teams, and leading AWS Partners in each solution area.

Greenway began its strategic collaboration with AWS in July 2020 with the primary goal of developing transformative healthcare products to meet the needs of providers in a post-COVID world. In addition to accelerated time to market and greater security and reliability for products and solutions, AWS also provides Greenways Product and Technology Organization with the ability to right-size, or scale with use, saving costs when resources are not in use.

Previously, Greenway has offered data insights for its clients by securely and compliantly leveraging data found in the electronic health record (EHR) products such as health history, procedures and assessments via a non-cloud infrastructure. Greenway Insights is the combination of Greenways skill sets using AWSs services to create a cloud-based data services platform that will create new data insights and healthcare interventions with increased speed, security, and reliability, to advance the breadth and impact of Greenways products and services. Greenway can now unlock support to bring in data from the entire Greenway ecosystem, serving up actionable insights providers could use to make more informed decisions that would improve patient care and the financial health of their practices quickly and efficiently.

One of the biggest aspects of advancing the health IT industry is through data, which is why the recent collaboration with Amazon Web Services is so crucial and exciting, said David Cohen, chief product and technology officer at Greenway. Building Greenway Insights on AWSs proven, infrastructure allows us to focus on creating new data insights and healthcare interventions for clinical decision support, delivering product innovation to our clients at a more accelerated pace.

In response to evolving client needs in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Greenway brought to market its Greenway Telehealth product in 12 weeks, benefitting from more efficient development processes that run on AWS. Greenway Telehealth is the first solution in Greenways virtual care portfolio, and is a secure, HIPAA-compliant solution fully integrated with both its EHRs, Intergy and Prime Suite.

Greenway Telehealth facilitates an entirely remote patient-provider experience for optimized practice efficiency and improved health outcomes. Since its initial release in October 2020, the solution has received positive client feedback including the following:



Our (staff and) patients just want a simple, easy-to-use connection, and thats what the Greenway product brought. Mercer-Bucks Orthopaedics Chief Executive Officer Tony Molchany, located in Trenton, N.J.

Greenway Telehealth is like having the patient in the office  Its so easy now doing everything from one screen. Fabio Oliveros MD & Associates Office Manager Soraya Jimenez, located in Sebring, Fla.

The release of Greenway Insights and Greenway Telehealth won the company a 2020 Golden Bridge Award, in the Company Rethinking of the Year category, further demonstrating Greenways commitment to its ambulatory care clients during COVID-19. Greenway was also listed in Beckers Hospital Review Telehealth Companies to Know in 2020.

About Greenway Health

Improving healthcare through innovation is at the heart of Greenway Healths work. We provide electronic health record (EHR), practice management, and revenue cycle management solutions that help practices in multiple specialties grow profitably, remain compliant, work more efficiently, and improve patient outcomes. Our team of clinical, financial, and technology experts serve as trusted advisers, committed to our clients success. Greenway works with over 55,000 providers across multiple specialties, which translates into millions of lives touched daily by our solutions. For details on how we can work together to build a more efficient healthcare system, visit http://www.greenwayhealth.com, call 877-537-0063, or follow Greenway on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.


We are constantly looking to bring new features to better protect our clients and citizens and I am very pleased that we were able to include these great new air quality monitoring features.

IPVideo Corporation was selected as a 2021 SSI MVP Award winner in the fire & life safety category for the new 2.2 features release of the HALO Smart Sensor. The awards program recognizes products that make a substantial impact on integrators based on their innovation, functionality, and competitive advantage.

The HALO Smart Sensor is an all-in-one device that includes vape and THC detection, gunshot detection, security for privacy areas with spoken key word and sound alerts, chemical detection, air quality monitoring, and a smart building manager. Our latest new award-winning features in the 2.2 firmware included indoor air quality monitoring, BACnet integration to trigger facility environmental changes, and cleaning chemical signature verification all to assist with the fight against COVID-19 and the spread of airborne infectious disease.

Poor indoor air quality and air filtering are of great concern with the return to work and school. HALO will now monitor and send alerts based on Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) measurements and will report the Air Quality Index (AQI), based on the EPAs regulated standards for the indoor environment. HALO will identify if the environment is in the danger zone for the spread of disease at the location of each sensor.

The integration with BACnet will allow communication of building automation and control systems for applications such as heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning control (HVAC), lighting control, access control, and fire detection systems and their associated equipment. HALO alerts and sensor readings can now communicate to these varied control systems to address and make improvements in response to the alerts received.

In addition to standard chemical detection, an additional health and safety measure in HALO 2.2 is the recognition of cleaning chemical signatures. Now you can monitor, record, and have validation of when specific locations have been sanitized to ensure safety.

Additional safety features have been added under 2.2 including certified gunshot detection with dual-factor authentication and 360-degree range and additional emergency key words have been added for spoken alerts.

All of these new features are available for download via the new 2.2 Firmware at no additional cost!

These new features are a game-changer for the healthy return to indoor facilities, states Rick Cadiz, Vice President of Sales & Marketing. We are constantly looking to bring new features to better protect our clients and citizens and I am very pleased that we were able to include these great new air quality monitoring features at no additional cost to our customers.

HALO Smart Sensor Patent Number 10,970,985

For further information regarding the HALO Smart Sensor and IPVideo Corporation, visit http://www.ipvideocorp.com/halo/ or call 631-969-2601.

About IPVideo Corporation

An industry pioneer since its introduction of one of the first network-based surveillance recording solutions in 1996, IPVideo Corporation is now at the forefront of developing unique, innovative solutions that harness the power of IP video technology. IPVideo Corporation leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning through the Internet of Things (IoT) products and professional services. A commitment to an open-standards philosophy and delivering best-in-class performance and value underlies all offeringsfrom physical security solutions to purpose-built HD audio/video recording solutions for education, law enforcement, healthcare, and training purposes to groundbreaking weapons and theft detection systems. Today, the companys systems are trusted by Fortune 500 companies, government agencies and municipalities, utilities, healthcare facilities, school districts, religious institutions, and leading universities worldwide to mitigate risk while protecting people and properties. The companys worldwide client base is served by a network of certified distributors, manufacturers representatives and hundreds of dealers and system integrators, who benefit from ongoing corporate support and training. IPVideo Corporation is headquartered in Bay Shore, NY. For more information, visit http://www.ipvideocorp.com.
By offering this program, we can help children grow and reach their full potential, not just academically, but physically, spiritually and socially as well.

HongDe Elementary School, a not-for-profit Kindergarten  Grade 7 Independent school, has announced it will be offering a Chinese (Mandarin) Bilingual program starting in September 2021, and is now open for registration. The program is part of the schools initiative to serve the community and help its youth by providing an option for students to learn a second language and by promoting virtues and character strengths from a young age.

The name HongDe can be translated as promoting virtue through learning traditional culture. According to Head of the School and Principal, Linda Spruston, the purpose of the school is to provide an excellent education and an opportunity to learn about traditional Chinese and western cultural values in addition to promoting virtues, or character strengths, considered important for society.

By offering this program, we can help children grow and reach their full potential, not just academically, but physically, spiritually and socially as well, said Linda Spruston in a recent interview. We go above and beyond the BC curriculum, ensuring our students have the highest quality education possible, to help our community and give students the best chance for success.

In addition to following the BC curriculum and core and curricular competencies, HongDe Elementary School also offers a strong emphasis on fine arts. Dance, music, visual arts and drama are all taught by specialists, giving students an opportunity to flourish in this area.

HongDe Elementary School is now open for registration for September 2021. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.

For more information about HongDe Elementary School, or to learn more about their K-Grade 7 Chinese (Mandarin) Bilingual program, visit their website at http://www.hongdeschool.ca or call (604) 416-0386.
There are many events that can affect the price of car insurance. For this reason, drivers should compare online prices once at every six months, said Russell Rabichev, Marketing Director of Internet Marketing Company.

Compare-autoinsurance.org has launched a new blog post that explains when drivers should compare online car insurance quotes.

For more information and free online car insurance quotes, please visit https://compare-autoinsurance.org/when-its-recommended-to-check-car-insurance-quotes-online

Some events can affect the price of car insurance paid by a driver. In some cases, the insurance rates are affected positively and drivers will have to pay lower premiums. On the other hand, certain events will make the policyholders pay more money on their car insurance.

Drivers who found themselves in the following situations should check the insurance market:



The credit score changed. In most states, the insurers can use a drivers credit score to determine his insurance rates. Insurance companies consider that drivers with a poor credit score are less responsible and they are more likely to file claims. For these reasons, drivers with a poor credit score will pay more expensive premiums. On the other hand, drivers with a good or excellent credit score are regarded as responsible drivers who are less likely to file claims for car accidents. In their case, the insurance companies will reward them with lower insurance rates.

Legislation changes. The car insurance laws and requirement can be changed at any time. Also, each state has its own car insurance laws and requirements.

The driver managed to maintain coverage. Having an insurance lapse can make the premiums to be very expensive. New drivers and drivers who have a coverage lapse can lower their expensive premiums if they manage to keep coverage for at least six months.

Important life events. Some important life events can have a significant impact on policyholder's premiums. Events, like getting married, buying a new house, getting a job, or buying a second car, can help the policyholders pay less on their insurance. However, events like getting divorced, adding a teen driver to the policy, or moving to a bad neighborhood will increase the cost of insurance.

Renewal time is getting closer. Rival insurance companies will offer generous discounts to those drivers who have insurance policies that will expire soon. Policyholders should analyze all the factors involved before deciding between staying with the same insurer or signing a new deal with another one.

For additional info, money-saving tips and free car insurance quotes, visit https://compare-autoinsurance.org/

Compare-autoinsurance.org is an online provider of life, home, health, and auto insurance quotes. This website is unique because it does not simply stick to one kind of insurance provider, but brings the clients the best deals from many different online insurance carriers. In this way, clients have access to offers from multiple carriers all in one place: this website. On this site, customers have access to quotes for insurance plans from various agencies, such as local or nationwide agencies, brand names insurance companies, etc.
Where is American manufacturing heading in the future? With a globalized supply chain and many companies outsourcing manufacturing overseas and across borders, some speculate that the future of American Made may not be so prolific. However, there is one technology breaking away from this trend and sparking a renewed vitality into American manufacturing. The enormous potential of 3D printing (also known as additive manufacturing) to reshape supply chains, reduce manufacturing costs and lead times, and revolutionize design for manufacturing processes is leading the way for the future of American industry, says Jason Korbelik, CEO of Precision Additive.

Precision Additive, an industrial 3D printing service bureau based in Englewood, CO, opened its doors for business in June 2021 with the vision of supplying high quality parts to the aerospace, defense, medical, automotive, and manufacturing industries. Armed with a full lineup of industrial-grade 3D printers, the company offers printing materials that rival the strength of machined parts. Offering both Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) printing services, Precision Additive also provides designing services, also known as Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM).

One of the biggest benefits of 3D printing are the short lead times, says Brian Korbelik, President & COO of Precision Additive. With traditional manufacturing methods it often takes 1 to 2 months for parts to be produced. With additive manufacturing on the other hand, customers can receive parts in a matter of days rather than weeks. Two more benefits of 3D printed parts are their cost and weight  they often cost less and weigh less than comparative parts that have been machined. Their lighter mass is especially helpful for many industrial applications that are weight sensitive.

With its central location in the middle of the country, Precision Additive can supply 3D printed parts on demand to many of the countrys OEMs, machine shops, government agencies, and hospitals. There is a high demand for cost-effective industrial-grade parts that are available at much shorter lead times. Precision Additive is here to meet that demand, says Jason Korbelik.

To learn more about Precision Additive or to request a quote please visit https://www.precisionadditive.com. Direct Contact: Phone (888-909-7975), Email (service@precisionadditive.com). LinkedIn: Precision Additive Facebook: Precision Additive Instagram: Precision Additive YouTube: Precision Additive
We want everyone to know more about Gulf of Maine seafood, including who harvested it, how to prepare it, and what makes it the best protein for your health and for the environment.

True Fin, formerly known as Gulf of Maine Sashimi, Inc., is pleased to unveil a new brand identity. Committed to providing professional and home chefs the best seafood from the Gulf of Maine, True Fin is leading the way in boat-to-plate excellence. Since 2019, True Fin has worked directly with Gulf of Maine harvesters to procure the best fish, handled with special care for superior quality. True Fin is on a mission to create economic resilience for coastal communities by building greater value for the regions fisheries.

The True Fin name reflects the companys commitment to transparency and authenticity. We want everyone to know more about Gulf of Maine seafood, including who harvested it, how to prepare it, and what makes it the best protein for your health and for the environment, said Jen Levin, President & CEO. On True Fins newly launched website, consumers and chefs across the country will find information about sustainability, Gulf of Maine harvesters, cooking tips, and the chance to buy premium Gulf of Maine seafood and have it shipped across the country.

True Fin buys all of its seafood directly from boats in Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. In exchange for specialized quality handling, the company pays fishermen a premium over traditional markets. Last year, fishermen harvested less than 20% of sustainable fish quotas in the region, largely driven by prices that are so low, fishermen cant afford to go fishing, said Levin. We want to change the model, get more money to boats, and harvest more of our sustainable fish stocks locally.

The catch includes a variety of finfish species, like cod, pollock, hake, and monkfish, as well as seasonally available items, like tuna, halibut, squid, and scallops. The company cuts the fish at its Portland, Maine facility and ships to top chefs and discerning home cooks across the country.

True Fin is the first mission-driven business venture launched as part of the Gulf of Maine Research Institutes Gulf of Maine Ventures initiative, which aims to address important challenges facing the Gulf of Maine region and the globe through the development of mission-based business ventures and partnerships that leverage private sector market opportunities.

We want to accelerate positive social, environmental, and economic impacts around the Gulf of Maine region, said Blaine Grimes, Chief Ventures Officer at the Gulf of Maine Research Institute. I cant think of a better example of that goal than True Fin, which is a key part of our strategy to support the regions seafood industry from boat to plate.

About True Fin

True Fin first launched in 2019 (under the name Gulf of Maine Sashimi, Inc). as the first mission-driven business venture of the Gulf of Maine Research Institutes Gulf of Maine Ventures initiative. After watching the region's fleet dwindle amidst declining boat prices and increased competition from imported seafood, we set out to build a better seafood business that works in harmony with the ocean and with fishermen. Today, True Fin is committed to providing professional and home chefs the best seafood from the Gulf of Maine. We buy directly from fishermen to provide top quality, fully traceable seafood that is good for our customers, the ocean, and coastal communities. Discover the True Fin difference. For additional information please visit http://www.truefinseafood.com and follow @truefinseafood.

About the Gulf of Maine Research Institute

The Gulf of Maine Research Institute pioneers collaborative solutions to global ocean challenges. Located in Portland, ME, the institute is dedicated to the resilience of the Gulf of Maine ecosystem and the communities that depend on it. For more information, visit http://www.gmri.org.
Local Automotive dealership Boucher Hyundai is searching for sales professionals.

Local dealership Boucher Hyundai of Waukesha is hiring! This dealership is part of the Boucher Automotive Group in the Waukesha area in Wisconsin and any job seeker who is interested in finding their future job is encouraged to check out this job opportunity. Interested parties wont need to wait long for this job fair, as all interviews will occur July 15 and July 16 at the Boucher Chevrolet of Waukesha location at 1421 E. Moreland Blvd. The Boucher Job Fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days. It is important to note that there are multiple locations hiring, so there are plenty of opportunities for job seekers.

In this job fair, the Boucher Automotive Group is hiring for more than 20 openings across 10 cities and 20 different locations for sales professionals. Boucher has flexible scheduling and commission. An average sales consultant at this group earns over $80,000 a year after 12 months. These positions also offer health insurance, dental and vision, a cafeteria plan, paid vacation as well as rewards for top performers.

Job seekers who are interested in finding a rewarding, long-lasting and fulfilling career are encouraged to contact Boucher Automotive Group to learn more. Additional information about this job fair can be found at http://www.boucherhyundai.com or any Boucher Automotive Group website.
Jorge Calil "Great Lawyer! Will take the time to talk to you as long as it takes. Highly recommend this lawyer to anyone seeking personal injury lawyer"

Jorge Calil is the founder of The Law Offices of Jorge A. Calil, P.A.

The Haute Lawyer Network, well known for its exclusive and luxurious lifestyle publication Haute Living, is privileged to present Mr. Jorge Calil as a member and expert in his field.

Haute Lawyer offers a prominent collective of leading attorneys. The invitation-only network features only two lawyers per market. This partnership allows Haute Lawyer to connect its affluent readers with industry-leading attorneys in their area.

Calil has plenty of experience as he has been practicing law for over 17 years. Calil started out as an Assistant State Attorney in the 17th Judicial Circuit, Broward County. He later began his private practice in Downtown Miami and has represented hundreds of clients in a variety of cases ranging from criminal defense, personal injury, workers compensation and first-party property damage claims.

Living in Miami for over 40 years has helped Calil gain a unique perspective on the challenges that are common throughout his community. His expertise as an attorney, coupled with real-life experience in a variety of other fields, qualifies Calil to help clients navigate our complex legal system, regardless of their situation.

Apart from his expertise in the legal field, Calil has a strong background in a variety of other fields, having worked in such capacities as: Owner of a licensed roofing company, Auditor for South East Bank, Licensed Real Estate Broker, assistant State Attorney and County Court Bailiff.

Jorge Calil is a member of the Florida Bar and obtained his Juris Doctor at the Shepard Broad Law School at Nova Southeastern University. Additionally, Calil obtained his bachelors degree in business administration at Florida International University.
Bob Strohmeyer, Chief Customer Officer, Leadspace Having more data hasnt necessarily made sales and marketing teams more effective, its just made CRMs, MAPs, and other systems less reliable. Leadspaces B2B CDP capabilities finally present a real solution by unifying all that data with clarity and confidence.

Leadspace, the leading business-to-business (B2B) customer data platform (CDP) provider, announced Bob Strohmeyer as its chief customer officer. Joining the Leadspace mission to give enterprise companies a single source of truth for customer intelligence, Strohmeyer brings a wealth of expertise and a fanatical focus on helping clients achieve measurable business results.

For over 25 years, Strohmeyer has led diverse teams of technical, strategic, and creative professionals to achieve high-impact revenue and marketing results for enterprise customers. He has served as chief customer officer at Swrve, headed product and professional services teams at Demandbase, led Strategic Marketing Services at IDG, and delivered innovative custom media services at Future Publishing. His perspectives and insights in the business and technology sectors have been featured in numerous publications, including Wired, Forbes, PCWorld, Entrepreneur, Executive Travel, and Smart Business.

Strohmeyer has spent his career addressing the challenges of building and maintaining customer relevance at scale. From his early days working on native advertising strategies at IDG to the creation of the ABM category at Demandbase, his goal has been to deliver digital customer experiences that resonate while ensuring sales and marketing can scale successfully.

Strohmeyer joins Leadspace in the midst of a company-wide evolution to focus on the unification of customer data, which deeply aligns with his passion for solving the hardest problems in the enterprise B2B space. He was drawn to Leadspace for its unique ability to unify the customer graph at the core of the tech stack.

The most urgent challenges facing B2B companies today arent new, but they are now more complex than ever, said Strohmeyer. Having more data hasnt necessarily made sales and marketing teams more effective, its just made CRMs, MAPs, and other systems less reliable. Leadspaces B2B CDP capabilities finally present a real solution by unifying all that data with clarity and confidence.

Strohmeyers 15 years of experience in demand generation, paired with his drive to ensure measurable customer success, make him the perfect fit for a company that prides itself on providing quantifiable lift across sales and marketing tactics, pipeline building activities, and revenue-generating campaigns. His industry knowledge will play a critical role in Leadspaces future growth.

Strohmeyer recognizes that resolving the data challenges B2B marketers and sellers face is only a part of the battle, and stresses the importance of practical application in the real world.

Better data isnt just about the data itself, said Strohmeyer. Its about being able to use the data appropriately to bring more relevant, meaningful experiences that connect people with the content and brands that improve their work. Solving the B2B customer relevance problem has broad implications for the quality of digital experiences and quality of life in general.

To learn more about Leadspaces new data unification engine and the role it plays in the leading B2B CDP, visit http://www.leadspace.com.

About Leadspace

Leadspace is the leading B2B Customer Data Platform (CDP) helping companies take back control of their data and empowering marketing, sales and operations teams to accelerate growth through accurate, personalized engagement across all channels. With the most robust and open B2B data engine in the industry, sophisticated AI, a proprietary graph of B2B personas, and activations across the go-to-market tech stack, customers like Microsoft, American Express, Zoom, and many more use Leadspace to power more data-driven and effective inbound marketing, outbound targeting, and ABM efforts. Leadspace is based in San Francisco and Israel and is trusted by more than 200 B2B brands including seven of the worlds top ten enterprise software companies.


The Good News Prayer Challenge: an informative and inspiring way to explore ones faith. The Good News Prayer Challenge is the creation of published author Lenny Anderson, a loving husband and ordained priest in the Episcopal Church who seeks to encourage others in their faith.

Anderson writes, Wonder what exactly is so great about God, faith, the Church? Are you new to faith or want to brush up on the basics? Do you simply want to jump-start your prayer life?

The Good News Prayer Challenge is an accessible introduction to the indispensable teachings of Christianity for seekers, skeptics, and Jesus followers alike. Its also a hands-on introduction to daily prayer, with each day focusing on a teaching that the reader can pray about while learning. It covers four weeks (twenty-eight days) of topics in the context of a daily devotional and prayer guide. Are you ready to take on The Good News Prayer Challenge?

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Lenny Andersons new book is an exciting opportunity for spiritual growth.

The author writes in hopes of encouraging readers no matter their current relationship with God to seek and nurture their faith.

View a synopsis of The Good News Prayer Challenge on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase The Good News Prayer Challenge at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about The Good News Prayer Challenge, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.
Lerner and Rowe gives back by hosting a FREE backpack giveaway in Chicago for K-12 students. Finances are tight for many families right now and Lerner and Rowe hopes that by hosting this FREE back to school event, some of those burdens will be lessened.

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys is pleased to announce that their law firm will host a FREE 750 Backpack Giveaway in partnership with Dr. Eugene Jao from La Clinica Injury Specialists on Saturday, August 14 at Richard J. Daley Elementary Academy (5024 S Wolcott Ave, Chicago, IL 60609) from 2:00 p.m. through 5:00 p.m. Families are invited to attend this fun back to school event to collect one FREE backpack per student 18 years of age or younger, and then stay to also enjoy FREE food and games.

Any families planning to attend need to be aware that backpacks and food quantities are limited and will be handed out on a first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last. Additionally, masks are recommended for those who are not fully vaccinated.

Attorney Glen Lerner enthusiastically shares the reason behind once again hosting a free backpack giveaway in Chicago: By hosting our annual Chicago Backpack Giveaway we hope to offset some of the costs associated with going back to school. We know that finances are tight for many families right now and hope that by hosting this event, some of those burdens will be lessened. And really, what better way to get families excited about the 2021-2022 school year than by giving away free backpacks filled with school supplies at a fun back to school event?

Glen Lerner also added, Wed also like to extend a special Thank You to our community partner Dr. Eugene Jao from La Clinica Injury Specialists for his financial contribution towards our Chicago backpack giveaway. We love our community partners and strongly believe that together we can do so much more for those in need.

Anyone interested in learning more about Lerner and Rowes Free Chicago Backpack Giveaway should contact Arianna Baiz by email at abaiz@lernerandrowe.com, or by phone at (312) 590-2634.

More About Lerner and Rowe

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys is a powerhouse law firm in representing personal injury clients. Attorneys Glen Lerner and Kevin Rowe have grown their law firm into one of the largest personal injury firms in the country, with over 50 attorneys and nearly 400 support employees located in Illinois, Indiana, Arizona, Nevada, California, Washington, Oregon, New Mexico, and Tennessee. The law firms reputation for excellence can be attributed to the high levels of respect, dignity, and customer service shown to victims and family members hurt in an accident.

For those injured outside one of the previously listed states, Lerner and Rowe has an established network of attorneys across the country, ready to help. The firm takes pride in nourishing these relationships as they know a personal injury attorney can make all the difference in obtaining fair compensation for the pain and suffering inflicted upon the victims of tortious conduct.

For more information about Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys in Chicago, please call 708-222-2222. To connect with the law firm socially, follow Lerner and Rowe on Twitter and Instagram, or become a fan of its Facebook page. Also, be sure to visit lernerandrowegivesback.com to learn more about the many other community services that the lawyers and legal support team of Lerner and Rowe actively support.
Lerner & Rowe Injury Attorneys hosts a FREE Merrillville back to school event for K-12 students and their families. Lerner and Rowe once again supports local K-12 students in Merrillville and their families by giving away much needed backpacks with school supplies.

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys is pleased to announce that their law firm will host a FREE 500 Backpack Giveaway on Saturday, August 14 at Dean & Barbara White Community Center (6600 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410) from 8:00 a.m. through 11:00 a.m. Families are invited to attend this fun back to school event to collect one FREE backpack per student 18 years of age or younger, and then stay to also enjoy FREE food and games. The Merrillville law firm decided to host the backpack giveaway to help students prepare and get excited for the 2021-2022 school year.

Anyone planning to attend needs to be aware that backpacks and food quantities are limited and will be handed out on a first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last. Additionally, masks are recommended for those who are not fully vaccinated.

The COVID-19 pandemic greatly impacted how students learned during the previous school year. Household incomes were also affected because of reduced hours at work or staff reductions. Both of these reasons are what prompted us to once again support local K-12 students and their families by giving away much needed backpacks with school supplies. We hope that by doing so we can help offset their back to school expenses, as well as enjoy a few hours reconnecting with neighbors and friends before the 2021-2022 school year, said attorney Glen Lerner.

Anyone interested in learning more about Lerner and Rowes FREE Merrillville Backpack Giveaway should contact Arianna Baiz by email at abaiz@lernerandrowe.com, or by phone at (312) 590-2634.

More About Lerner and Rowe

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys is a powerhouse law firm in representing personal injury clients. Attorneys Glen Lerner and Kevin Rowe have grown their law firm into one of the largest personal injury firms in the country, with over 50 attorneys and nearly 400 support employees located in Indiana, Illinois, Arizona, Nevada, California, Washington, Oregon, New Mexico, and Tennessee. The law firms reputation for excellence can be attributed to the high levels of respect, dignity, and customer service shown to victims and family members hurt in an accident.

For those injured outside one of the previously listed states, Lerner and Rowe has an established network of attorneys across the country, ready to help. The firm takes pride in nourishing these relationships as they know a personal injury attorney can make all the difference in obtaining fair compensation for the pain and suffering inflicted upon the victims of tortious conduct.

For more information about Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys in Merrillville, please call 219-227-4993. To connect with the law firm socially, follow Lerner and Rowe on Twitter and Instagram, or become a fan of its Facebook page. Also, be sure to visit lernerandrowegivesback.com to learn more about the many other community services that the lawyers and legal support team of Lerner and Rowe actively support.
The City of Milwaukee commissioned Griffin & Strong, P.C. (GSPC) to conduct a Disparity Study to determine if there is equity in City contracting. In addition, the Study will independently assess current and proposed minority and women owned business enterprise programs, policies, and procedures.

A Disparity Study is an objective research tool whose findings of discrimination, if any, are a prerequisite to any race or gender based remedial program. GSPC, a law and public policy consulting firm based in Atlanta, Georgia, is a nationally recognized expert in disparity research. Public participation in the Study is critical to the accuracy of the Study findings which will result in policy recommendations to the City of Milwaukee. The study will determine whether there is a disparity between the percentage of minority and women owned firms that available to provide goods and services to the City and the Citys utilization of those firms.

In the interest of preserving public health amidst COVID-19 concerns, GSPC will be hosting two virtual community engagements on Tuesday, August 10, 2021. These online sessions will provide the public with the opportunity to share their experiences, both positive and negative, doing business with and attempting to do business with the City of Milwaukee. We encourage your participation and look forward to your feedback on how the City of Milwaukee can improve diverse representation in public contracting. The meetings will be hosted:

Tuesday, August 10, 2021

12:00pm-1:00pm CST

Please RSVP at this link https://bit.ly/3kiaF9U

Tuesday, August 10, 2021

5:00pm-6:00pm CST

Please RSVP at this link https://bit.ly/3hYUdZK

Note: Registration is free and advanced registration is recommended but not required to participate. Once you register via Zoom, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to join the webinar. Use that link to join the Virtual Community Engagements on the meeting date you selected.

Meetings are facilitated and led by GSPC on behalf of the City of Milwaukee. As a part of the public record, all comments will be recorded and may be used as anecdotal evidence for the 2021 Disparity Study. For questions or concerns, please email Griffin & Strong at MilwaukeeStudy@gspclaw.com.
Michael Eberle, an Iraqi vet having served one tour of duty from 2005 to 2006, has completed his new book My Daddy, My Hero": a beautifully illustrated book that exemplifies how military families are often worried, but strong while their loved one is deployed.

Eberle writes, "Connor woke up one morning before school. He rubbed his eyes before his feet hit the fluffy carpet beneath him. He got up. And before anything else, he ran to the window to see how it was doing outside, especially during the winter months because he knew that if it was snowing bad enough, maybe hed get lucky and get a snow day. But today was different for Connor. Today was What My Dad Does for Work Day.

Published by Page Publishing, Michael Eberles childrens book is a wonderful testament to the love a boy has for his father.

All the kids in Connors class would bring their fathers in and stand up in front of the class with them. While their dads explained what they did, the children would either help their dads explain what they did or stand by, holding their fathers hand and smiling with proud smiles and staring up at them with eyes so big and wide youd think they just met their favorite cartoon character.

Readers who wish to experience this emotional book can purchase My Daddy, My Hero" at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes Store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or media inquiries, contact Page Publishing at 866-315-2708.

About Page Publishing:

Page Publishing is a traditional, full-service publishing house that handles all the intricacies involved in publishing its authors books, including distribution in the worlds largest retail outlets and royalty generation. Page Publishing knows that authors need to be free to create, not mired in logistics like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes, and so on. Pages accomplished writers and publishing professionals allow authors to leave behind these complex and time-consuming issues and focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at http://www.pagepublishing.com.
Tribal Member Purchases - Motors Northwest

Here's good news for all the Native American tribal members out there in the state of Washington! Motor Northwest is now shipping used cars to Washington Tribal Countries under the Tribal Member Purchases. This dealership will provide free and clear titling documents and assist in proper transfer to the state of residence.

For confirming the eligibility and to avoid Washington state sales tax, individuals need to furnish the following documents: a valid state driver's license, Tribal Declaration form and the vehicle must be delivered to the buyer's tribal country within Washington state in combination with at least one; valid tribal member card, certificate of membership, proof of spousal relationship to a tribal member and proof of their spouses tribal membership or certified letter from a tribal representative.

Motors Northwest has a huge selection of used vehicles in Tacoma, WA. Browse the impeccable lineup of used BMW, Buick, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Kia, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Nissan, Ram, Toyota, and Volkswagen. Search for used vehicles by year, make, model, price, mileage, or payment online.

Potential Customers who would like to learn more about Tribal Member Purchases at Motors Northwest can check out the website http://www.motorsnorthwest.com or call at 253-475-5000. Finally, for those who would like a more personal experience, visit the Motors Northwest showroom located at 7007 South Tacoma Way, Tacoma, WA 98409. The dealerships showroom is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays.
Estelle Jorgensen is the 2020 NAfME Senior Researcher Award recipient "Dr. Jorgensen's words have a tendency to shine light in dark places, awaken the unconscious, and inspire the reader to ask critical questions of ourselves, the profession, and institutions. These are hallmark characteristics of a phenomenal researcher."

The National Association for Music Education (NAfME) is pleased to present Estelle Jorgensen, Professor Emeritus at Indiana University, as the seventeenth recipient of the NAfME Senior Researcher Award. The award, which recognizes significant, long-term scholarship in music education, was presented to Jorgensen on February 27 at the 2021 NAfME Music Research and Teacher Education Biennial Conference, which took place virtually February 2527.

Numbers alone cannot tell the story of a professors research impact. Research must be written by authors, and authors need support. Research that is worthy of publication needs a place to go. Estelle enlarged the capacity of our field to do both. But more than that, she helped to create sustaining and sustainable research organizations, shared Dr. Randall Allsup, Associate Professor of Music Education at Columbia University. Today we have sociologists, activists, and ongoing conferences dedicated to LGBTQ inclusion; we have a commitment to social justice that is embedded across institutions and research paradigms; music education dissertations across institutions employ more philosophy in their related literature sections, conceptual frameworks, and rationales; writers have more opportunities to speak and be heard. Estelle was a generational leader who took part in this great unspooling. She met her moment. She rose to her moment. Her research and the research mechanisms that she built provided my generation with the ability to do things differently. And few researchers can make this claim.

In 1990 she hosted the Philosopher/Teacher in Music Symposium at Indiana University, which was the first-ever international conference on the philosophy of music education, noted John Kratus, Professor Emeritus of Music Education, School of Music, Michigan State University. In 1993 she founded the biannual journal, Philosophy of Music Education Review. This journal is now recognized as the premier journal in the world featuring philosophical articles on music education. In 2003 Dr. Jorgensen was instrumental in creating the International Society for the Philosophy of Music Education (ISPME) at an international philosophy of music education conference at Lake Forest University. Ever since then, the ISPME has held biennial conferences at various locations in North America and Europe. The most recent conference, held in Ontario, Canada in June 2019, was attended by nearly 100 participants from around the world.

If you know anything about Dr. Jorgensens work, you know that she is exceptionally gifted with words, and words matter, shared NAfME Presidient Mackie V. Spradley. Words are both powerful and transformative. Dr. Jorgensen's words have a tendency to shine light in dark places, awaken the unconscious, and inspire the reader to ask critical questions of ourselves, the profession, and institutions. These are hallmark characteristics of a phenomenal researcher.

Jorgensens degrees include: B.A. Hons., Dip. Ed., University of Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia (1967, 1968); A.Mus A. (Piano Performance), Australian Music Examinations Board (1968); M.Mus., Andrews University, Michigan (1970); Ph.D., University of Calgary, Canada (1976). Jorgensen has authored five books and edited three books on music education: In Search of Music Education (1997), Transforming Music Education (2003), The Art of Teaching Music (2008), Pictures of Music Education (2011), and Values and Music Education (November 2021). She co-edited Humane Music Education for the Common Good (2002) and edited Philosopher, Teacher, Musician: Perspectives of Music Education (1993) and Proceedings of the McGill Symposium in School Music Administration and Supervision, 1979 (1980). Her articles have appeared in the Journal of Research in Music Education, Music Education Research, the Bulletin of the Council of Research in Music Education, Music Educators Journal, the International Journal of Music Education, the British Journal of Music Education, Psychology of Music, and Research Studies in Music Education. Jorgensens full vitae is available here.

One of the privileges of serving on the Executive Committee of the Society for Research in Music Education is to be able to select someone from our research community to honor for their significant impact on the field, noted NAfME Society for Research in Music Education Chair Carlos R. Abril, Ph.D., Professor of Music Education and Associate Dean of Research at the Frost School of Music, University of Miami. I can think of few who are more deserving of such an honor than Estelle Jorgensen. For decades, her scholarly contributions have illuminated the path for many music educators and researchers, inviting them to think more deeply and act more mindfully.

When future historians will interpret and critique music education in the late twentieth- and early twenty-first century, Estelle Jorgensens contributions will be singled out as some of the most forward-thinking and enduring of the time period, said Marie McCarthy, Professor of Music Education at University of Michigan. Continuing, McCarthy added, In the field of music education, Indiana University came to be associated with philosophy. It was there through the work of Prof. Jorgensen that philosophy as a subspecialty within music education research took root. Prior to 1990, the year she hosted the first philosophy of music education conference, The Philosopher/Teacher in Music: The Indiana Symposium on Research and Teaching in the Philosophy of Music Education, scholars within the profession produced major works in philosophy, but it was Estelle Jorgensen who brought the professional community together in the name of philosophical discourse and the collective advancement of scholarship.

The NAfME Senior Researcher Award is a fitting award for someone so deeply engaged in music education scholarship personally, in her mentorship of students, and in her leadership of colleagues across the fields of music and education, added Patricia Shehan Campbell, Donald E. Peterson Professor of Music at University of Washington, and the 2002 NAfME Senior Research Award recipient. For forty-plus years, Professor Jorgensen has been thinking and doing music education, first as a choral musician and conductor and later as a teaching member of university faculties of music. . . . Her ideas have been foundational in the critical review of our accomplishments in music teaching and learning, and in our consideration of how we might meet the challenges of music in schools and communities of a rapidly changing North American (and global) society. Beyond a shadow of a doubt, Professor Estelle Jorgensen is a remarkable scholar, a leader in the field, and it is most appropriate that we honor her in this way, at this time.

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National Association for Music Education, among the worlds largest arts education organizations, is the only association that addresses all aspects of music education. NAfME advocates at the local, state, and national levels; provides resources for teachers, parents, and administrators; hosts professional development events; and offers a variety of opportunities for students and teachers. The Association has supported music educators at all teaching levels for more than a century. With more than 60,000 members teaching millions of students nationwide, the organization is the national voice of music education in the United States.

Follow NAfME on Twitter and on Facebook @NAfME. For additional information, contact Catherina Hurlburt at catherinah@nafme.org or 703-860-4000.


We are blessed to have had such a great run in this exciting industry and we are confident that National OnDemand will take it to the next level.

National OnDemand, Inc. today announced the completion of its acquisition of A+ Communications (A+), a company providing telecommunications services since its incorporation in 2001.

The management team from A+ will remain with the company. They will continue to operate much as they do today, providing client support and upholding their track record for stellar key performance metrics. National OnDemand will provide corporate support including human resources management and financial administration and expects no organizational changes to the operations.

A+ Communications marks National OnDemands fourteenth acquisition in the last four years and expects to execute additional acquisitions this year as it continues its strategy as a national front-runner of Fiber, Wireless, Energy and Technology services.

A+ has been in business for over twenty years and has a sterling reputation within the industry. Ive known the owners for many years, and being able to acquire this company in the last mile sector is a huge benefit for our company as we continue to grow," explained National OnDemands Chief Executive Officer, Douglas Boteler. Were continuing to expand operations across the country, and we are pleased to add the A+ leadership to our team and continue to deliver high-quality results for our clients and their customers.

National OnDemand has created a large national platform through partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions, as well as organic growth from which it delivers profitable results to clients in multiple sectors.

"This is a great opportunity for our team, with National OnDemands support, to grow the business and provide all of our employees with strong benefits and career advancement opportunities, explained A+s President, Mike Bebko. We are blessed to have had such a great run in this exciting industry and we are confident that National OnDemand will take it to the next level.

About A+ Communications: Since the companys founding in 2001, A+ has provided Last Mile services focusing on MDU services, drop bury services and installation services for Multi-System Operators (MSOs) along the east coast.

About National OnDemand: National OnDemand, Inc. is a communications and utilities infrastructure provider delivering service solutions to the Fiber, Wireless, Renewable Energy and Technology sectors in the United States. Headquartered in Burlington, North Carolina, the Company provides full turnkey infrastructure solutions  on demand, anywhere across its service footprint and has secured and sustained its current standing in the market through the successful completion of mergers and acquisitions, along with demonstrable, steady organic growth.

For more information, please visit: http://www.nationalondemand.com

SOURCE National OnDemand, Inc.

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Follow National OnDemand on LinkedIn for more updates:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/nationalondemand/

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The Coalitions institutional investors engaged companies to request that diversity, inclusive of gender, race, and ethnicity be considered as a priority in board composition. 517 companies have appointed at least one woman to their boards since the Adopt a Company campaign launched in 2012.

Representing more than $7 trillion in assets under management, the Thirty Percent Coalition (Coalition) contacted more than 250 companies as part of its 2020/21 Adopt a Company campaign. The Coalitions institutional investors engaged companies to request that diversity, inclusive of gender, race, and ethnicity be considered as a priority in board composition. Investors asked companies to commit to include both women and people of color in applicant pools (known as the Rooney Rule) and to reflect this commitment in the companys governance documents. The Coalitions 2020/21 Adopt a Company campaign achieved strong results: 127 companies appointed women to their boards, of which:

- 65 companies with all-male boards appointed a woman, most for the first time

- 62 companies appointed a second woman



In 2021, 28 shareholder proposals on board diversity were filed, with 22 withdrawn based on positive agreements Source: Sustainable Investments Institute (Si2)

Investor groups in California, Midwest, and Northeast successfully engaged more than 100 regional companies; these achievements are included in overall 2021 Coalition results

Overall, 517 companies have appointed at least one woman to their boards since the Adopt a Company campaign launched in 2012. Results are derived from the Coalitions database and data provided by FactSet.

2021 was a historic year for shareholder action as reported in the media:

Shareholders approved a record number of resolutions in 2021 on issues related to climate and social topics such as diversity  signaling they increasingly view inaction on these fronts as a major financial risk. Source: CNN

To date, there have been 34 majority votes for ESG proposals, shattering last years record of 21. More are likely by years end. Source: Sustainable Investments Institute (Si2)

We continue to be encouraged by the effectiveness of our collaborative efforts through the Thirty Percent Coalition. Key to board refreshment is the commitment by Nominating and Governance Committees to adopt and apply the Rooney Rule [1] as well as have this commitment reflected in the companys governance documents. For the most part, investors requests during this proxy season have received very positive responses, stated Mary Hartman Morris, co-chair of the Coalitions Institutional Investor Committee and Investment Officer at CalSTRS.

2021 has been an extraordinary year with a notable increase of shareholder support, highlighted by significant growth in engagements and resolutions on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues. A growing number of investors voted No on Nominating Committee members or against entire boards that were inadequately diverse. These votes signal to management and boards of directors the value investors place on board diversity as a strong indicator of sound governance and an essential element to long-term success, said Tim Smith, co-chair of the Coalitions Institutional Investor Committee and Senior ESG Advisor at Boston Trust Walden.

While company efforts towards more diverse boards and workforces have grown over the past year, investors still need expanded disclosure as they make their investment decisions. Disclosure of board composition, inclusive of gender, race, and ethnicity is considered essential. EEO-1 statistics and other human capital data points also are becoming a focus as they reflect if and how effectively diversity is managed, from the workforce to the boardroom.

Call to Action:

Undertake regular board assessments to determine competencies needed to move the company forward on diversity, and to determine how the board composition ties to a companys long-term strategy and performance;

Implement and improve skill-set matrix disclosure in the companys Proxy (DEF14A) on board gender, race, and ethnicity;

Commitment to include women and people of color in the board candidate pool (Rooney Rule) with documentation on this commitment within the companys governance documents;

Disclosure of future plans to make progress on board diversity.

About the Thirty Percent Coalition

Founded in 2011, the Thirty Percent Coalitionalso known as the Coalition for U.S. board diversityis a pioneer in promoting diversity in the corporate boardroom. Its mission is to advocate for diversity on corporate boards, promoting women and people of color. The Coalition provides a national forum where its members develop strategies to influence companies to increase diversity in senior leadership and boardrooms. Membership includes public companies, private equity, institutional investors, state treasurers, professional services firms, and advocacy groups working together for the first time. In 2021, Coalition members represent over $7 trillion in assets under management. There is no other organization of this kind in the U.S.

[1] Commitment to include both women and people of color in the candidate pool.
Best Canvas Print Company we want to put them to the test to see who truly has the best canvas prints on the market

PhotographyTalk has announced it will soon commence with its annual $100 canvas print shootout. This is the third year that the global photography community has curated this in-depth canvas print review.

The purpose of the $100 canvas print shootout is twofold, explains Alex Schult, Founder and CEO of PhotographyTalk. First, there are a lot of companies that market their canvases as the best, so we want to put them to the test to see who truly has the best canvas prints on the market. And second, we want to educate our readers about what to look for in a high-quality canvas print.

Just as in years past, the 2021 shootout will have a budget limitation of $100. The small budget, Schult explains, is to demonstrate to people that you dont have to spend an arm and a leg to get a really great-looking canvas print. In that regard, the canvas print shootout also serves as a tool that will help readers make sound financial decisions when buying canvas prints.

The 2021 shootout will compare canvases on a wide range of metrics, including:



Quality of the canvas material

Type of framing and quality of construction

Types of inks used

Overall quality of the print, including color accuracy, depth of colors, contrast, and level of sharpness and detail

The shootout will also compare companies on the packing materials used to ship the canvases. A pricing breakdown will additionally be provided so readers know how much of the total cost went toward the print, shipping, and taxes.

PhotographyTalks 2019 canvas print shootout compared three companies and in 2020, it expanded to seven. In 2021, the shootout includes 11 competitors.

In both 2019 and 2020, a small, family-run printing company based in Arkansas, CanvasHQ, took home the crown as the best canvas print company. CanvasHQ has many global partners, including Bentley, Ralph Lauren, Bon Appetit, and Sylvan Learning.

This years shootout will determine if CanvasHQ holds their title again this year or if a new winner will be crowned. Stay tuned to PhotographyTalk.com for individual reviews of each companys print as well as a complete head-to-head comparison in which the 2021 winner will be crowned.

About PhotographyTalk

Since its founding in 2009, PhotographyTalk has grown to become the primary resource for nearly 3 million beginner, enthusiast, hobbyist, serious amateur, and professional photographers worldwide who want to become better photographers. As the company has grown and become a force in the photography industry, it has been featured on Forbes, Inc Magazine, Huffington Post, Buzzfeed, Spike TV, and more.

Offering both free and subscription-based memberships, PhotographyTalk provides members with access to an enormous library of thousands of articles written and curated according to the needs of its members. The site is home to hundreds of photography lessons, instructional videos, and guides that offer even more detailed instruction on all manner of photography topics. Whether you want to learn about landscape photography, portraiture, street photography, macro photography, or something in between, PhotographyTalk has the tutorials you need.

Members are also able to improve their skills and shoot better photos by getting valuable feedback from other photographers in the PhotographyTalk Forum and Galleries. Ask and answer questions in the forum, learn about photography gear, submit your photos to the galleries for critique, and otherwise interact with other folks that live and breathe photography just like you do!

PhotographyTalks mission is to help every photographer find their voice through instruction and inspiration that cuts down the learning curve and makes taking better photos a reality. Join the revolution today and start acquiring the knowledge and skills you need to take your best shot.
A recent study found that 89 percent of inmates benefited from the Peace Education Program by helping them gain a willingness to change, better manage their anger and avoid fighting. I was studying and working in prison. Then COVID came and I could not study and work anymore. I was depressed, because I was doing nothing everyday. Now, I feel happiness and I know that peace is possible.

The Prison Education Foundation (FUNAP) renewed a partnership to bring The Prem Rawat Foundations Peace Education Program to more than 6,000 inmates at 11 prisons across the state of Sao Paulo, Brazil by the end of this year.

FUNAP is a state foundation, linked to the Secretariat of Penitentiary Administration (SAP), in charge of helping inmates to rehabilitate and reintegrate into society through educational, labor, cultural and legal assistance initiatives. FUNAP Executive Director Henrique Pereira de Souza Neto signed the agreement to expand use of the Peace Education Program after a successful pilot had a notable impact on hundreds of inmates in the state earlier this year. Impressed by the results, several prison directors endorsed the program and recommended the expansion.

I suggest that the project be expanded to the largest possible number of people deprived of liberty at the state level--and why not at the national level, says Claudemiro Alves Mauricio Junior, Director of Education at ASP Joaquim Fonseca Lopes Penitentiary.

Many of the inmates report that the program has been transformational.

I was studying and working in prison. Then COVID came and I could not study and work anymore. I was depressed, because I was doing nothing everyday. Now, I feel happiness and I know that peace is possible, says one of the participants at Capital Prison.

The Peace Education Program was created to help participants from all walks of life discover their own inner strength and personal peace. Excerpts of Prem Rawats inspiring talks are at the heart of the program workshops, giving participants the opportunity to focus and reflect on their own humanity and their inner resources such as choice, hope and dignity. Rather than describing or defining personal peace, the program empowers individuals to reach their own understanding.

The expansion in Brazil will be implemented with the help of approximately 150 volunteers and a local NGO, Society for the Support of Knowledge and Inner Peace. This development follows growing international recognition.

Earlier this year TPRF signed agreements with the South Africa Department of Correctional Services and the Italian Ministry of Justice to offer the Peace Education Program at correctional facilities throughout those countries. The program has already benefited more than 60,000 people in the correctional, probation and parole systems in 40 countries, winning praise from officials for improving inmate behavior, reducing recidivism and other positive outcomes.

A comprehensive recent study found that 89 percent of 604 incarcerated participants in four continents benefited by helping them feel empowered to face past events, gain a willingness to change, better manage their anger and avoid fighting.

The Peace Education Program also has a proven track record of benefiting diverse people outside of corrections, from other disadvantaged populations to university students and community groups.

The Peace Education Program workshops can be offered in person, virtually, or on inmate tablets by GTL and Edovo (tablet versions currently available in the U.S. only). The Prem Rawat Foundation makes the workshop materials available free of charge.

The Peace Education Program is just one of the ways that TPRF advances dignity, peace and prosperity by addressing fundamental human needs. TPRF has provided more than $450,000 for COVID-19 relief projects throughout the world in the last year, including initiatives in Brazil to provide medical care and food to vulnerable populations.
Partners that are VMware Cloud Verified provide organizations with complete and advanced VMware Cloud technologies, along with interoperability across clouds for greater advantage for their customers businesses.

RapidScale, a Cox Business company, today announced it has achieved VMware Cloud Verified status.

The Cloud Verified designation indicates that a provider offers the complete VMware-based software defined data center infrastructure delivered as a service. VMware Cloud Verified partner services enable customers to achieve unmatched levels of consistency, performance, and interoperability for both traditional or containerized enterprise applications and the confidence that the service is based on the most advanced VMware cloud technologies.

We are thrilled to be a VMware Cloud Verified partner and make IT simple and efficient for our customers, said Duane Barnes, vice president, and general manager, RapidScale. By leveraging VMwares Cloud Verified platform, were able to offer industry-leading cloud services for enterprises looking to sustain a more mobile, productive, and secure workforce with other innovative VMware technologies such as Desktop as a Service (DaaS) and SD-WAN.

Partners that are VMware Cloud Verified provide organizations with complete and advanced VMware Cloud technologies, along with interoperability across clouds for greater advantage for their customers businesses, said Jim Aluotto, Senior Director, Cloud Provider Business, Americas Region, VMware. Cloud Verified services delivered by VMware Cloud Providers can provide the efficiency, agility, and reliability inherent in cloud computing. We look forward to supporting RapidScale as it empowers organizations with a simple and flexible path to the cloud.

VMwares global network of more than 4,500 VMware Cloud Providers leverage VMwares consistent cloud infrastructure to offer a wide array of services in over 120 countries, provide geographic and industry specialization, and help customers meet complex regulatory requirements.

For information on how to become a Cloud Verified partner, please visit https://www.vmware.com/partners/service-provider/vmware-cloud-verified-logo.html.

About RapidScale

Flexible enough for the SMB and powerful enough for the enterprise, RapidScale, a Cox Business company, is a global managed cloud services provider helping organizations increase IT productivity, improve security, and empower remote workforces. Some organizations partner with RapidScale to manage portions of their IT, while others offload it all. Through our global network of data centers and our 24/7/365 high-touch support team, we obsess over creating an exceptional IT experience through a human approach to managed cloud. For more information on RapidScale, visit http://www.rapidscale.net.

Cox Communications owns Cox Business and is a facilities-based provider of voice, video, and data solutions for commercial customers. More information about Cox Communications, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, is available at http://www.cox.com.

About Cox Business

The commercial division of Cox Communications, Cox Business provides voice, data and video services for more than 355,000 small and regional businesses nationwide, including health care providers; K12 and higher education; financial institutions; and federal, state and local government organizations. The organization also serves most of the top-tier wireless and wireline telecommunications carriers in the U.S. through its wholesale division. For more information, please visit http://www.coxbusiness.com.

VMware, VMware Cloud, VMware Cloud Verified, and VMware Cloud Provider are registered trademarks or trademarks of VMware, Inc. in the United States and other jurisdictions.

Media Contact

Nikki Salazar

nikki.salazar@rapidscale.net
Jiannan Huang Black and White As our societies become increasingly multicultural, we need alternative visions of what it means to coexist, interact, and learn in community with each other.

Renowned Chinese Artist Jiannan Huang Named as Blue-Chip Artist of the Los Angeles Beverly Arts International Arts Festival

Press Conference and Luncheon at the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills on July 14, 2021 at 11:30 a.m.

The Los Angeles Beverly Arts (LABA) and the LABA Los Angeles International Art Festival are proud to announce the first Blue-Chip Artist Award of the Art Festival. The award was presented to Mr. Jiannan Huang, a globally renowned Chinese artist, residing on the Hurun China Art List for seven years, rising to 3rd place in China in 2020 and 19th in the World.

Joey Zhou, Co-Founder and Chairman of LABA and the LABA Los Angeles International Art Festival was the master of ceremonies.

Jiannan Huang is one of the top Chinese artists globally, as rated by The Hurun Research Institute, which ranks the Top 50 Global artists alive today based on the sales of their works at public auctions in 2019. Huang's paintings have recently sold for $29mn, and his work is increasingly sought out by collectors and museums internationally. Huang has expertise in both oil painting and Chinese ink.

Presenters at the event included Princess Karen Cantrell, the rotating chairman of the Art Festival and the California chairman of the non-profit Royal Society of St. George (RSSG), and Dr. G. James Daichendt, Dean of the Academy of Fine Arts of Loma Nazareth University of Southern California. Dr. Daichendt is an art critic and art historian and a member of the jury board of the LABA International Arts Festival.

It is an honor to present this award today to Mr. Huang, said Princess Cantrell.

Huang was presented with the Blue Chip Artist certificate and trophy to show appreciation for his contribution to the LABA Los Angeles International Art Festival since its founding on October 28, 2020. In particular, he has actively participated in selecting artists for the festival and in committee activities. Since Huangs works have attracted attention in North America, Asia, and Europe, his status has played a pivotal role in promoting the LABA International Art Festival around the World.

Due to the pandemic, Huang was unable to accept the award in person, and Mr. Harrison Engle, Huangs longtime friend, received it on Huang's behalf. Jiannan Huang joined the ceremony via video conference call from his Art studio in Beijing.

Other distinguished guests who attended include:



Ike Khamisani, President of the United Nations Association of the USA (UNA-USA), Inland Empire.

Carlos Amezcua, anchor and Emmy Award-winner who is also co-chair of LABA International Art Festival.

Sharon Amezcua, a serial entrepreneur and investor and chairman of the board of the LABA International Arts Festival.

Harrison Engle, the founding chairman of the International Documentary Association.

Princess Karen Cantrell reviewed the past seven months of the Los Angeles LABA International Arts Festivals launch and registration, selection process, and current shortlisting. I look forward to the general content of the nominated shortlist, the offline exhibition, and the awards ceremony that will take place on February 18, 2022, said Cantrell.

Ike Khamisani also presented Huang with a Humanitarian Certificate of Award from the UNA-USA Inland Empire.

As United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in his last message about art, Some Exhibitions celebrate an artists work; others explore an artistic movement or era.

"At LABA, we envision the arts as part of intercultural learning in order to inspire a culture of PEACE, HOPE and EDUCATATION for NON-VIOLENT alternatives to create a sustainable, equitable, and harmonious earth society," said Khamisani. As our societies become increasingly multicultural, we need alternative visions of what it means to coexist, interact, and learn in community with each other.

"Our organization also focuses on shared HUMAN interests in PEACE, EQUITY, and JUSTICE. The Art Festival is a forum in which the arts provide an expressive vocabulary for the examination of social and political issues affecting our communities," said Princess Karen Cantrell. "We rely on the arts as a platform for social innovation and PEACE EDUCATION, to inspire hope and build bridges across cultures."

"This is the core reason the United Nations Association of the United States of America, Inland Empire, California appreciates both LABA and the LABA International Art Festivals vision and role in the field of promotion of art and its role in world peace, said Kamisani. We chose to support LABA not only because it is a non-profit organization, but also since many of LABAs top leaders and members come from other charity organizations.

When editor-in-chief Jennifer Liu of "US NEWS EXPRESS asked how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the LABA Arts Festival, Mr. Zhou responded by explaining that the Art Festival Organizing Committee decided to extend the original three-month online exhibition to six months. Face-to-face discussion and review by the jury and the review of the original works by the artists has not been possible during the pandemic as our location has been closed," said Zhou.

Reporters also asked about LABA International Art Festivals shortlisting criteria and future award criteria.

Based on the traditional experience of previous art festivals, weve also taken lessons from Oscar and the Golden Globe Awards selection methods, said Dean Daichendt. We specifically asked Harrison Engle, who has thirty years' experience as a judge, to advise us about how to implement strict controls for all aspects of the selection process. Mr. Engle has established orderly and professional conduct for the first 2021-2022 LABA International Art Festival's selection of the world's 100 most valuable and influential artists', and in early September, we will announce the shortlist of the first batch of artists.

Media attending the event include: "Phoenix Satellite TV America/PSTV," "Zhejiang International Satellite TV," "HTTV, "Huaxia TV, "Sky Link Satellite TV," "US News Express," "Media News & Huarenone, "Zhou Zheng Show," "Zhou Zheng Art Channel," "Beverly Arts Interview," "LABA International Arts Festival Finalist Interview," "Beverly Arts News," "Bob Delgadillo Photography," "US ARTBANK Report," and other local and major international news media based in Los Angeles.

About Jiannan Huang

Jiannan Huang, also known as Miao Jian, is one of the World's finest artists in oil painting and traditional Chinese ink painting. He is the Gold Medal-winner of the Global Charity Alliance and was awarded the title of "Earl" by the Indonesian Royal Family. Huang has been on the Hurun China Art List published by the Hurun Research Institute for seven years. In 2020, Jiannan ranked 3rd on the Hurun Art List for Chinese artists and 19th on the Hurun Global Art List as one of the top artists in the World. Jiannan is ranked 21st in the "Top 500 Global Contemporary Artists" at Artprice, the authoritative European and American art website. In his early years, Jiannan walked more than 38,000 kilometers across China, traveled north and south, and went deep into desert villages and towns to see the country and experience life for creating his art.

For more information about Los Angeles Beverly Arts (LABA) and the LABA Los Angeles International Art Festival, visit https://www.thebeverlyarts.com/.
A recent report from Kentuckys Bluegrass Institute for Public Policy Solutions claims, with little supporting evidence, that trends from the 1990s to 2019 on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) show that choice programs catalyze significant educational improvement.

Sam Abrams and Steven Koutsavlis of Teachers College, Columbia University, reviewed Florida Versus Kentucky: School Choice Improves Public School Performance, Too, and determined that its findings fall far short in proving the efficacy of school choice programs.

The NAEP is administered to a sample of students in all 50 states every two years, and the report selectively looks at data from two of these states: Florida and Kentucky. The report claims that greater improvement in NAEP scores over this time period for students in Florida, home to much school choice, as compared to students in Kentucky, home to none, demonstrates that Floridas school choice programs have been a success. The report thus concludes that the passage in March of Kentuckys first voucher program should be embraced as a first step in following in Floridas path.

This review rejects that determination for two reasons, both related to the cherry-picking of Florida as the comparison state. First, the report overlooks the intensity of Floridas focus on preparing students for annual state exams in reading and math since the implementation of its A+ Accountability Plan in 1999, which appears to have had a substantial impact on the states NAEP scores. Second, in focusing on Florida, the report fails to acknowledge that the majority of the 10 states with the most choice programs (as measured by percentage of students enrolled in charter schools) fell short of Kentucky in posting gains on NAEP over this time period.

The review therefore concludes that much more evidence than this report provides is necessary for drawing clear lessons about the implications of Floridas school choice strategy for Kentucky or any other state.

Find the review, by Samuel E. Abrams and Steven J. Koutsavlis, at:

http://nepc.colorado.edu/thinktank/fl-ky-school-choice

Find Florida Versus Kentucky: School Choice Improves Public School Performance, Too, written by Richard G. Innes and published by the Bluegrass Institute for Public Policy Solutions, at:

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f986190ec1e7d424e58d7f2/t/6090301bdad6d84a16df9887/1620062243113/KYvsFL.pdf

NEPC Reviews (http://thinktankreview.org) provide the public, policymakers, and the press with timely, academically sound reviews of selected publications. NEPC Reviews are made possible in part by support provided by the Great Lakes Center for Education Research and Practice: http://www.greatlakescenter.org

The National Education Policy Center (NEPC), a university research center housed at the University of Colorado Boulder School of Education, produces and disseminates high-quality, peer-reviewed research to inform education policy discussions. Visit us at: https://nepc.colorado.edu
Tammarro.com, a provider of location intelligence solutions, announced today that it will integrate DataMap Intelligence Geospatial Data as an add-on to its various product offerings to standardize and geocode new input addresses with greater street level accuracy.

Organizations that require precise geocoding and accurate property identification will now have access to DataMap Intelligences exclusive detailed information of all new residential development across the United States previously unavailable. A variety of real estate related industries rely on new parcel data to research and analyze property characteristics such as environmental factors, demographics, and tax jurisdictions.

The exact location and the ability to analyze the characteristics of new residential developments are key components to real estate related industries when making critical business decisions. Integrating DataMap geospatial data into daily operations enables organizations to achieve greater insight into the impact of location-based variables.

Our customers require very high quality data and DataMap Intelligences geospatial data is another added dataset which we will make available to our customer base, said Jennifer Tammarro, managing director of Tammarro.com. By integrating DataMap geospatial data, organizations are enabled to precisely locate more properties across the country and gain a greater insight into each specific location, added Moshe Shmuel Newhouse of Lakewood New Jersey based Moshe Newhouse Lakewood Real Estate. We are excited about this new business relationship, noted Yecheskel Charlie Schwab of Lakewood New Jersey based DataMap Intelligence.

What makes DataMap unique is the fact that it has aggregated data, pinpointing the exact location of virtually all new and emerging residential developments throughout the United States and Canada, and DataMap can deliver this data in geospatial format. This combination is currently unavailable elsewhere, stated Chatz Schwab of Lakewood New Jersey based DataMap Intelligence.

About Tammarro.com

Tammarro.com provides location intelligence services for market expansion. With the industrys most comprehensive set of solutions for maximizing data, Tammarro.com provides the tools required to more effectively connect and communicate customers goals. See http://www.tammarro.com

About DataMap Intelligence

DataMap Intelligence, LLC is a complete and comprehensive GIS content provider that creates, collects and distributes geospatial data pertaining to virtually all new and emerging residential developments across the United States and Canada. See http://www.datamapintel.com
In BC more than 80 women are now active WEL investors and over $1M has been invested to date. With new WEL groups actively recruiting investors in Toronto, Winnipeg and Silicon Valley, the valuable impact of women shareholders is soon to rise exponentially."

Womens Equity Lab (WEL), Canadas first all-female angel fund is expanding across North America. WEL was first launched in Victoria in 2017 with the support of the National Angel Capital Organization (NACO) and has recently completed the investment of its third round. The Vancouver chapter was launched in 2020 followed by the Okanagan in early 2021. New groups are currently setting-up in Toronto, Winnipeg and Silicon Valley. To support the roll-out, WEL has just finished a complete rebrand and launched a new website at http://www.womensequitylab.com to help businesses apply for funding and for investors to find a WEL fund in their region.

WEL is comprised of groups of diverse, successful women who share expertise, insights and perspectives to make smart investments in new businesses. Our approach is a fun and accessible way to learn from the experience of early angel investing, activate capital to advance our economy and further gender equality. Across regions WEL teams closely collaborate, network and share deal flow, education, expertise and resources to support our investees and our communities and syndicate deals with other angel groups and government funding agencies.

Winnipeg, Toronto and Silicon Valley and the second Vancouver fund are actively recruiting 25-30 investors each, who commit $5,500. Partners meet monthly and collectively develop an investment thesis, assess deal flow and make investment decisions. Each fund invests in from three to five deals over a one-year period.

WEL Founding Partner (Victoria WEL Fund) Stephanie Andrew, also co-founder of the Capital Investment Network and Partner in Cindicates, a Victoria-based VC fund, started WEL because women are significantly under-represented in venture investing.

In British Columbia more than 80 women are now active WEL investors and over $1M has been invested to date. With new WEL groups actively recruiting investors in Toronto, Winnipeg and Silicon Valley, the valuable impact of women shareholders is soon to rise exponentially and will result in more diverse corporate teams and board, which has been proven to lead to better outcomes.

NACO is Canadas national angel capital industry association and represents 45 regional angel investment groups and 40 accelerators and incubators. Says CEO Claudio Rojas, We are committed to increasing diversity within the angel investor ecosystem to ensure that innovative entrepreneurs have access to the capital and connections they need to build Canadas future. We are pleased to support the expansion of the Womens Equity Lab and applaud the incredible work they are doing to engage more activate women angel investors.

Vancouvers WEL fund was co-founded in 2020 by Irene Dorsman who is also CEO of Vancouvers Angel Forum  one of Canadas longest serving angel networks. There are important initiatives to support women entrepreneurs, but it is equally important to create more female investors. Not only is this key to growing financial assets owned by women, it also ensures early stage companies benefit from a female perspective as they grow their business.

The Okanagan WEL fund was launched this year and is the largest to date with 30 investors. The group, also known as Okanagan Womens Mentoring and Angel Fund (WMAN), is focused on BC Interior ventures with one or more women on the management team and with women holding a significant equity interest.

WMAN co-founding partner Camille Saltman is a retired tech CEO who recently moved back to Canada from California. After launching a venture accelerator for The University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, and looking back on her own experience fundraising and mentoring ventures, she realized there is still a big gap still to be filled. Women-led ventures, after mentoring, more than double their ability to land bank financing but struggle to get angel and venture funding. Male-led ventures have the opposite experience. Why? Bank financing requires solid metrics but recent studies show angel and venture funding is still based on many subjective measures that have no bearing on the quality of the deal.

The Womens Enterprise Centre (WEC), a non-profit organization devoted to helping BC women start, lead and grow their own businesses issued a 2021 report, The Path Forward: Advancing the funding journeys of women entrepreneurs and it showed that over 61% of women entrepreneurs do not see current funding models fit their needs. Jill Earthy, CEO of WEC, says, WEL unlocks new capital from women leaders with diverse backgrounds to participate as investors, while at the same time filling an important gap in the financing path for women-led businesses and all entrepreneurs.

For more information on how to participate in WEL please refer to our website at http://www.womensequitylab.com or contact Stephanie Andrew at 250-857-6369 or info@womensequitylab.com.
We respect our employees, from their viewpoints about the virus to how and where they want to work and live. When you take care of your employees, your employees take care of you.

Woolpert is fully reopening its offices in North America today, 16 months after employees were asked to shelter in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The international architecture, engineering, geospatial (AEG) and strategic consulting firm has 42 offices in three countries and a staff of more than 1,300. The enforcement of masks at each office will align with the laws of each state or region, and vaccinations will not be required of Woolpert employees unless mandated by a client per a specific project.

Woolpert employees were given the choice to work full time in the office, continue to work remotely or to work a hybrid schedule in which they and their managers determine the days they work in the office each week. More than 90% of the staff indicated they would like to work either hybrid or remotely, and each can modify that selection moving forward. Woolpert COO Kirk McClurkin said these options were provided because the staff requested this flexibility and because they have demonstrated that they can be successful in this environment.

We were pleased that throughout the pandemic, thanks to the hard work of people who worked in often challenging conditions, we successfully maintained productivity levels, McClurkin said. We have built a performance-driven and trust-based culture, which our employees have embraced and championed. This has helped us create a flexible structure to support our staff personally and professionally, enabling them to collaborate and innovate to enhance project deliverables and advance quality management.

The reopening is the fourth and final stage of the firms Roadmap to Reopen, which was introduced in May 2020. Woolpert Chief Human Resources Officer Shanda McKinney said the Roadmap was developed to ensure employee safety while supporting client needs as the COVID situation evolved. She said employee surveys conducted throughout the pandemic generated feedback that has been crucial to the success of the Roadmap.

Honestly, the best thing we did was that we really listened to everybody, McKinney said. This helped us respond to our staffs most pressing needs by providing everything from technology support to implementing measures like our COVID charge number, which helped employees pay for COVID-related testing and family medical care. Our goal was to ease the burden of the pandemic for our staff while continuing to take care of business.

McKinney said this flexibility is consistent with multiple cultural initiatives developed in the last two years at Woolpert, which has been selected as a Great Place to Work by its employees for five straight years. These include the firms Inclusion and Diversity Network and its Freedom to Work Policy, which enables employees to take time off when they need it, to take time to volunteer when coordinated with their manager, and to select how and where they work around the world.

We are excited to be able to provide these essential and competitive benefits, and to know they are being well received, McKinney said. Our most recent Roadmap to Reopen survey reported a more than 95% approval rating of the support we have provided during this process. That makes us feel like were moving in the right direction.

Woolpert CEO Scott Cattran said the firm will continue to monitor staff needs after the reopening. Plans also are in place to enhance the firms cloud-based knowledge infrastructure, provide a $50 monthly technology stipend to all employees, and redesign Woolperts offices to accommodate flexible workspaces and promote collaboration, creativity and socialization.

We have all learned a lot over the last 16 months, and fortunately our leadership and our staff have been able to react and adapt quickly, Cattran said. We respect our employees, from their viewpoints about the virus to how and where they want to work and live. Our goal for reopening is to strive for flexibility so that each employee can enjoy their desired work environment.

About Woolpert

Woolpert is the premier architecture, engineering, geospatial (AEG) and strategic consulting firm, with a vision to become one of the best companies in the world. We innovate within and across markets to effectively serve public, private and government clients worldwide. Woolpert is an ENR Top 150 Global Design Firm, recently earned its fifth-straight Great Place to Work certification and actively nurtures a culture of growth, inclusion, diversity and respect. Founded in 1911 in Dayton, Ohio, Woolpert has been Americas fastest-growing AEG firm since 2015. The firm has over 1,100 employees and 42 offices in three countries. For more, visit woolpert.com.
Award-winning author and journalist Ann Rinaldi, best known for her painstakingly researched YA historical fiction featuring female protagonists, died on July 1 in Branchburg, N.J. She was 86.

Rinaldi was born August 27, 1934 in New York City, the fifth child of Michael Feis, a newspaper manager, and his wife Marcela Feis, who died just after Anns birth. She grew up in New Brunswick, N.J., and graduated from St. Peters High School there in 1952.

By her early teenage years Rinaldi had begun writing poetry as a creative outlet. Following high school, her father suggested that she enter the business world; she told Something about the Author that she kicked around the typing pool and held jobs at the Visiting Nurse Association in New Brunswick and the American Can Company in Metuchen. In 1960 Rinaldi married Ronald Rinaldi and moved to Branchburg, where they raised two children and where they remained through 61 years of married life.

When her children started school, Rinaldi began to write in earnest. I wanted to be a novelist, she told SATA, saying she wrote four terrible full-length novels before she approached her local weekly newspaper, the Somerset Messenger Gazette, and asked for a column. The editor gave it to me, she recalled. I earned seven dollars a week, but I was writing! Rinaldis weekly column became syndicated and ran in a variety of newspapers around the state. The following year, in 1970, Rinaldi pitched herself to the Trentonian newspaper, where she was hired to write two columns a week and quickly advanced to additionally writing soft news and features. Her column won first place in the New Jersey Press Association Awards in 1978 and 1989.

In addition to her journalism career, Rinaldi also returned to writing fiction, at night when her children were in bed and in the mornings before work. She had been working on a contemporary story inspired by the relationships and experiences in her own life, from the viewpoint of a 14-year-old girl. She had a good friend who was experiencing success writing young adult novels and Rinaldi realized thats where her story might fit, marketing-wise. The result was the novel Term Paper, which was published by Walker & Co. in 1980. The sequel, Promises Are for Keeping, followed in 1982. It wasnt until a few years later, inspired by her own family, that Rinaldi would turn her fiction focus to history.

Rinaldis son Ronald Rinaldi II had been an American history buff from a young age and she noted that through her newspaper coverage of the bicentennial events in Trenton and Princeton in 1976, he became especially interested in the American Revolution, joining a local re-enactment group. His passion for the era grew and his sister Marcella became a re-enactor too, prompting the entire family to travel to living history events all over the East Coast. My son dragged us to every battlefield, monument, fort, and battleground, north and south, from Saratoga to Yorktown, she recalled to SATA. This immersive experience, involving learning the food, crafts, and lifestyle of the period, led Rinaldi to write a YA novel on the American Revolution set in Trenton. It was rejected by 10 publishers who wouldnt touch it because it was history, she said. That novel was Time Enough for Drums, which was published by Holiday House in 1986. Rinaldi had called the book close to my heart, my favoritethe one everyone told me not to write! She has always credited her son with sparking her historical writing career.

Rinaldi left her position as feature and editorial writer at the Trentonian in 1991 to work on her books full-time. Through the 1990s and early 2000s, she wrote prolifically, sometimes publishing several novels per year. In all, she created 49 YA novels, most of them historical fiction focused on U.S. history. She also lectured on journalism at schools and educational conferences around the country.

Freelance editor Karen Grove, formerly of Harcourt Brace Jovanovich (and later HMH), was Rinaldis longtime editor. She shared this remembrance: Ann and I worked together on 23 of her 49 titles and remained friends, talking frequently, long after she left the publishing world. In addition to her love for history and ability to bring the past alive, Ann was extremely family oriented. When you look beyond the historical events she wrote about, the importance she placed on family relationships is evident in her writing. Above all, she loved her husband, children, and grandchildren and was so proud of their accomplishments. I feel honored not only to have worked with her over the course of 30 years but to have been able to call her a dear friend.

Author and former childrens book editor and publisher Margery Cuyler, who worked on Time Enough for Drums and several other Rinaldi titles when she was editor-in-chief at Holiday House, offered this tribute: Ann was passionate about history, and when she found a choice tidbit while doing research, her imagination soared. She introduced her readers to convincing worlds from the past, rich in detail, and with complex, memorable characters. She especially favored spirited girl protagonists. Best of all, she knew how to tell a good story. It was a privilege to edit her books.
The American Booksellers Association is facing withering criticism from booksellers after walking back its promotion of an anti-trans title to member bookstores. Among the promotional items included in the ABA July white box mailing sent to 750 bookstores, the organization included a copy of Abigail Shriers Irreversible Damage: The Transgender Craze Seducing Our Daughters, as well as a sell sheet.

At Brooklyns Greenlight Bookstores, book buyer Casey Morrissey was the first person in the store to open the box. Morrissey shared their reactions on Twitter, and other booksellers quickly joined in, echoing their comments.

@ABAbook Im seething. I was excited to open our July white box, and then the first book I pulled out is Irreversible Damage. Do you know how that feels, as a trans bookseller and book buyer? It isnt even a new title, so it really caught me in the gut. Do better. pic.twitter.com/VYb1ZKrv9A  Casey (@CaseyBookEater) July 14, 2021

Within hours, the ABA issued an apology statement. An anti-trans book was included in our July mailing to members, the ABA wrote. This is a serious, violent incident that goes against ABAs ends policies, values, and everything we believe and support. It is inexcusable. The organization apologized to trans booksellers and noted that further action will be taken within the next three weeks.

But booksellers said the statement fell short, calling out the organizations use of the passive voice in the opening sentence. They also demanded greater transparency about how the decision to include the book was initially made, and called for demonstrable steps to restore trust with trans book workers and authors. Some called on the ABA to offer promotions for trans authors' books at no cost.

ABA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee member Luis Correa, who works as a bookseller at Avid Bookshop in Athens, Ga., was first made aware of the issue when fellow booksellers emailed him Morrisseys tweet. Correa identifies as a queer, Latino, and fat-bodied person, and said he thought the apology was flawed.

I'm disappointed with the use of the passive language at the beginning of the statement and the shift in blame. They really should say that we included this book, Correa said. The DEI Committee is comprised of ABA member booksellers and does not consult on the selections for the white boxes.

Promotional boxes have been a longstanding feature of ABA membership. Publishers pay the organization to include advance copies of books, sales sheets, book marks, and other materials. The ABA then mails the boxes to booksellers along with marketing information for the organizations own Indie Next lists.

Regnery, the publisher of Irreversible Damage, sent the copies to booksellers to promote the books forthcoming paperback release. First published in hardcover in 2020, the critical reception to the book varied widely and the book has become the subject of fierce debate. Psychology Today criticized the authors reliance on a controversial gender dysphoria theory and her rejection of basic science. Amazon declined employee requests to stop selling the book, but also turned down Regnerys request to advertise its publication. Just yesterday, NBC News reported that Amazon is facing more internal criticism for selling the book. At the same time, conservative media praised Irreversible Damage and The Economist named it a Book of the Year in 2020. The book has sold about 35,000 hardcover copies since its release last June, according to NPD BookScan.

Regnery was blindsided by the ABA's statement, according to president and publisher Thomas Spence, who denounced the organization's characterization of the incident as "an act of violence." In an e-mail to PW, Spence wrote: "The only explanation I can think of for the ABA's statement that credits them with a rational (though dishonorable) motive is that they're trying to drum up publicity for their annual Banned Books Week promotion, coming in September (this year's slogan: 'Censorship Divides Us'). Perhaps finding books that have been 'banned,' in any meaningful sense, is so difficult that they have been forced to do the dirty work themselves."

Spence also defended Shrier's book. "In a sea of materials uncritically promoting medical 'transition' for teenage girls with little to no oversight, there is one book that responsibly investigates the question and urges caution," he wrote.

Among booksellers, however, there was little disagreement about the content of the book. As longtime @ABAbook members with beloved staff across the gender spectrum, we're extremely disappointed and angered to see the ABA promoting dangerous, widely discredited anti-trans propaganda, and we're calling for accountability, the Harvard Book Store wrote on Twitter.

Racism and Further Apologies

In an email late Wednesday, ABA CEO Allison Hill issued an additional statement to booksellers. She apologized, not only for the promotion of Shrier's book, but also for a racist incident last week in which the organization featured Blackout by Dhonielle Clayton, Tiffany D. Jackson, Nic Stone, Angie Thomas, Ashley Woodfolk, and Nicola Yoon on its Indie Next bestseller list, but included an incorrect cover image. Instead of using the actual cover, the ABA used a book cover by an author who Hill described as "a different Black author, a right-wing extremist."

"We traumatized and endangered members of the trans community. We erased Black authors, conflated Black authors, and put the authors in danger through a forced association. We further marginalized communities we want to support," Hill wrote. She reiterated that the organization will take steps to address both instances in the coming weeks, adding that, "[t]here is nothing that I can say that will make this right. This should not have happened. I want to apologize for both of these harms and for the pain that ABA caused. But I know only action matters. These were egregious, harmful acts that caused violence and pain. One negligent, irresponsible, and racist; the other negligent, irresponsible, and transphobic."

Separately, the ABA board of directors, all of whom are booksellers, weighed in with an email to members.

"These incidents harmed booksellers, ABA board members, and ABA staff who identify as LGBTQIA+ and/or BIPOC, as well as the wider community. They also added to a toxic culture overall," they wrote. "We are not the ABA of two years ago. These actions are antithetical to the values we are working to promote in our organization under the strong leadership of our CEO, Allison Hill, and COO, Joy Dallanegra-Sanger. This is not acceptable behavior and goes against the bylaws changes instituted last year."

"This is evidence of systemic problems, and we support the staff and will work to do whats necessary to root out institutional failures and biases," they added. "We hold ourselves accountable, and we will be transparent as we move through this process. This cannot happen again."

DEI committee member Correa said he is cautiously optimistic that the ABA will take steps that demonstrate a commitment to doing right by booksellers, and believes that the decision to take the coming weeks to outline steps was more prudent than rushing. In the past, he said ABA has been responsive on issues that are important to trans booksellers, including adding functionality to the Indie Commerce websites that many member bookstores use so that they can remove anti-trans titles from the ordering database. Still, he is wary.

We're dealing with a historically white, cis organization in a white supremacist society. So there are going to be a lot of missteps, he told PW. His hope is that the mistakes will prove instructive for booksellers around the country who also need to be more aware of pervasive discrimination against trans people and other marginalized groups.

This article has been updated with comments provided by Regnery president and publisher Thomas Spence.
The streak is over. The long run of unit sales of print books posting weekly sales gains over the comparable week in 2020 came to an end last week, with units falling 1.3% compared to the week ending July 11, 2020, at outlets that report to NPD BookScan.

The decline is the result of continued pressure on nonfiction sales, particularly adult nonfiction, the industrys largest category. Print sales fell 10.2% compared to a year ago in adult nonfiction. Last year at this time, books on race and social justice spurred by the #blackoutbestsellerlist campaign continued to sell in large numbers, taking up six of the top ten slots at the time. And John Boltons The Room Where It Happened, which was #1 on the category bestseller list, sold nearly 57,000 copies in the comparable week last year.

Last week, How I Saved the World by Fox News host Jesse Watters was #1 on the category list (and the top-selling title overall), selling just under 34,000 copies in its first week on sale. Two other new books hit the top 10 adult nonfiction list, though they sold in much smaller numbers than the top 10 titles did a year ago. Danny Trejos Trejo: My Life of Crime, Redemption, and Hollywood, sold more than 12,000 copies in its first week, while This is Your Mind on Plants by Michael Pollan sold over 11,000 copies.

The other nonfiction categories also had sales declines last week. Juvenile nonfiction sales fell 13.5%, as sales in all subcategories fell from a year ago. Young adult nonfiction dropped 15.3%.

While nonfiction sales struggled with comparisons to 2020, adult fiction had no such problem. Print units increased 22.1% over the comparable week a year ago, helped by the release of several new bestsellers. Danielle Steels Nine Lives sold just over 24,000 copies in its first week, putting it in second place on the bestseller list. Miranda Cowley Hellers novel The Paper Palace sold nearly 23,000 copies in its first week, and Falling by TJ. Newmans sold over 22,000 copies in its debut.

Juvenile fiction sales fell 2.3% in the week despite a new #1 seller in the segment, Cut to the Chase, the 13th volume in Aaron Blabeys Bad Guys series, sold over 28,000 copies (last year at this time, the 11th book in the series, Dawn of the Underlord, sold 29,000 copies).
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In December, BioReference phlebotomist Sang Yuan, third from left, led a rally in Flushing and filed a charge against her employers after alleging that the organization discriminates against its Chinese workers.
King of Falafel & Shawarma in Astoria faced a deluge of one-star ratings from online critics after a video of its political social distancing decal, left, went viral and provoked backlash from a pro-Saudi social media account.
New York City, NY (11385)

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Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 83F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph..

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Next destination: unknown. He has no money, not even a hint of a restart timeline and no guarantee that the next mayor or even next two will support the Brooklyn Queens Connector streetcar proposal. But Mayor de Blasios office says he is not giving up on the plan that gradually has been cut in length by nearly one-third since it was first proposed.
New York City, NY (11385)

Today

Mostly cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 83F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mostly clear. Low 71F. Winds light and variable.
Purdue Pharma headquarters stands in Stamford, Conn. In an agreement disclosed late Wednesday, July 7, 2021, in a filing in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in White Plains, N.Y., more than a dozen states have dropped their objections to OxyContin maker Purdue Pharmas reorganization plan, edging the company closer to resolving its bankruptcy case.
Michael Bailey, Berks County facility report mechanic, left, and Robert Quinter, county voter registrar, unload a new voting machine at the Temple Fire Company for use during the 2019 general election.
At a press conference on 8 July, U.S. President Joe Biden unequivocally refuted the suggestion that there was any comparison between Americas withdrawal from Afghanistan and its humiliating retreat from Vietnam in 1975. He asserted that the Afghan military was far better equipped and far more capable of withstanding an imminent Taliban takeover of the country than Saigons forces were in confronting the North Vietnamese and Viet Cong armies almost half a century ago.

Biden stated that it was highly unlikely that theres going to be the Taliban overrunning everything and owning the whole country. He declared that the U.S. went into Afghanistan to degrade the terrorist threat to keep Afghanistan from becoming a base from which attacks could be continued against the United States. We achieved those objectives  We did not go to Afghanistan to nation-build.

To reassure the Afghan government, Biden and his top defense officials, including Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, have repeatedly said that the U.S. will maintain an over the horizon capacity, presumably meaning airpower including drones, in order to help the Afghan government defend itself if the need arose. This looks like a consolation prize for the tottering government in Kabul, which American intelligence, according to reliable reports, believes may collapse in six months after the American withdrawal. While Biden has tried to minimise the import of this assessment, it appears credible in light of the Talibans recent military victories that have seen a large number of districts fall into their hands.

According to reliable estimates, the Taliban control more than half of the countrys districts, many of them captured after the beginning of the American withdrawal on 1 May. These include parts of Badakshan province in the northeast bordering on Tajikistan and portions of Herat province in the west bordering on Iran that had not been Taliban strongholds and have large non-Pashtun populations that are averse to Taliban rule. Several of these ethnic groups have organised their own militias in order to bolster the governments capacity to resist Taliban advances.

However, with Afghan forces melting away before Taliban advances they havent been able to stop Taliban control of large swathes of the countryside. The Taliban conquest of a large segment of Herat province and their control over several crossing points into Iran have forced Tehran, which has been firmly opposed to the Taliban coming to power in Kabul, to start negotiations with the Taliban. Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif met with a Taliban delegation that had been invited to Iran in the first week of July to urge the Taliban to come to a negotiated settlement with the Kabul regime to forestall unfavourable consequences for Afghanistan.

The Taliban, on their part, having failed so far to seize major urban centres, have adopted the strategy of capturing surrounding areas, thus cutting off government-controlled cities with the aim of eventually forcing them into submission. Close observers of Afghanistan believe the Taliban are following a two-pronged strategy and can shift between the two depending on how the situation develops after Americas total withdrawal. According to Tamim Asey, head of the Institute of War and Peace Studies in Kabul and a former deputy defence minister, In a maximalist sense, the Taliban wants a total military victory  In a minimalist sense, once the Taliban has tested government forces and realized that a total military victory is not within reach then it will use violence as leverage to secure further concessions at the negotiation table.

With the American withdrawal nearing completion, the Taliban have increased their military pressure, hoping to win an outright victory, though they will probably be willing to settle for a major share in a coalition government as a stepping stone for the re-establishment of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. The latter outcome appears a distinct possibility, especially given the fact that the U.S. didnt make a political settlement between Kabul and the Taliban a precondition for its withdrawal.

The Trump administration was interested only in bringing American soldiers home without incurring major losses, in the process leaving the Afghan government to its fate. The Biden administration has followed in its predecessors footsteps and taken that strategy to its conclusion. This may not be an exact replication of the humiliating defeat in Vietnam, but the final outcome is unlikely to be very different.

The U.S. made the fatal error of turning its anti-terrorist campaign into an anti-insurgency one in 200102 and getting embroiled in an unwinnable civil war. History teaches us that prolonged foreign intervention in intra-state conflict exacerbates the conflict by stoking nationalist and religious sentiments. Propping up regimes, especially one as dysfunctional as the Afghan regime, normally leads to severe a backlash, as both the South Vietnam and Afghanistan cases demonstrate.

Washingtons allies and adversaries will see the U.S.s abandonment of Afghanistanno matter how much it is camouflaged in optimistic verbiageas a defeat similar to the one it suffered in Vietnam. The major difference between the two outcomes is that while there was a clear-cut alternative power structure present in Vietnam that could replace the American-backed government, thats not true of Afghanistan.

The Taliban is clearly the major contender for power in the post-American era, but, given the fractious nature of Afghan society, its control over the whole country will be contested by force of arms by various regional factions, warlords and ethnic groups. This means that Afghanistan could slide into chaos as it did in the early 1990s after the Russian withdrawal, thus once again creating the space for non-state actors, including terrorist groups, to move in.

As if that wouldnt be bad enough, neighboursPakistan, Iran, Russia, China and India  whose interests and objectives are often in conflict with each other, surround Afghanistan. An unstable, indeed failing or failed, state is bound to draw them into the vortex of civil conflict, making the situation in Afghanistan even worse. Theres much more at stake here than merely the credibility of the U.S. and its loss of face.

Mohammed Ayoob is Distinguished Professor Emeritus of International Relations at Michigan State University.

This article appeared originally at The Strategist (ASPI).
Videos posted on social media showed security agents and groups of soldiers beating up demonstrators on Sunday. Protesters ripped up portraits of Fidel Castro, while others destroyed police motorbikes and overturned police cars. Those are the words of Wall Street Journal reporters Jose de Cordoba and Santiago Perez.

Hopefully the video images downloaded from the streets of Havana signal a successful push by the Cuban people to finally free themselves from tyranny. Figure that those in power cant arrest everyone, and if they try to, or if they try to bring physical harm to protesters, we'll all know it.

That Cubas tyrants will be exposed in real time firstly speaks to the genius of the capitalist profit motive. Even if you believe whats absurd, that the internet wouldnt exist if not for the DODs Arpanet, whats undeniable is that opposite-thinking entrepreneurs are the ones who uniquely saw the possibilities of the internet for the masses. An explosion in internet usage globally is now bringing to the world the protests in Cuba. The whole world will be watching assuming Cuban authorities crack down.

Whats happening now is also hopefully a reminder that the embargoes the U.S. has long placed on Cuba are much less than worthless. End them. Yesterday. Even though the United States cant trade with Cuba (actually, exceptions have been made for agricultural and medical goods such that the U.S. is countrys 4th largest trading partner), packages from Cuban Americans to family members continue to flow in to the country. Put another way, if youre producing valuable goods youre trading with the world. There are iPhones in Cuba, and their existence there once again makes it possible for the whole world to see a revolution that will hopefully succeed.

Information flows globally when rising internet speeds are matched with the supercomputers that fit in our pockets. Readers might want to keep this in mind the next time they nod their heads about the importance of breaking up Big Tech, or shrinking inequality. Whatever the politics of Big Tech founders and CEOs, and whatever the number of zeros in their net worth, life would be much more challenging without them, and the worlds most vulnerable much less safe absent the commercial achievements of the demonized. Again, if Cuban authorities crack down, well all know. Theres a degree of safety with this. For the Cuban people. Thank goodness.

Where it becomes amazing is that the images are actually making it out. No doubt iPhones are increasingly ubiquitous there thanks to generous Cuban American relatives, but the understanding here is that internet access is still spotty. As David Ariosto noted in his 2018 book This Is Cuba, those lucky enough to have phones search endlessly for not-very-good internet access. Its not an everywhere thing there, and its not as fast. Yet the images of protest are making it out. This is a huge deal.

Whats a huge, and very exciting deal is also a reminder of just how much the U.S. political class panicked in March of 2020. To see why, consider the images coming out of what is still economically primitive and desperately poor Cuba. Please think about this truth relative to China.

While smartphones are still a rare luxury in Cuba, and ones well-connected to the internet even rarer, smartphones in China are everywhere. As is well known, Apple sells a fifth of its iPhones there. And then Shenzhen-based Huawei is one of the worlds major smartphone producers, if not its largest.

Its all a reminder that the asterisks placed next to China-reported deaths related to the coronavirus were superfluous. Even if Chinese authorities werent telling the truth about virus deaths in the spring of 2020, their failure to was of no consequence. If people had been dying en masse, there would have been no way for Chinese authorities to hide this truth.

We know this because the internet is much better and faster in China. As Evan Osnos wrote in his 2014 book about the country, Age of Ambition, the internet had long ago exceeded what the censors could handle. Technology is faster than politicians and police. In the words of Osnos again, words were being expressed first, and censored second. Again, if the virus had been a major cause of illness or death in China, we would have known. As I point out in my latest book, When Politicians Panicked, the Soviets couldnt even hide the Chernobyl nuclear disaster despite technology that was exponentially more primitive.

What this tells us is that anyone with a clue knew well before March of 2020 that the virus was many things, none of them terribly lethal. Had it been, this would have been major news from the viruss epicenter where it presumably spread for months sans any kind of political reaction. Yet politicians stateside still panicked on the way to mass job loss, business bankruptcy, depression, alcoholism, loneliness, global spikes in poverty and starvation, etc.

All this happened not because of a virus (it once again had been spreading for months around the world), but because politicians decided they had to do something. And when politicians do something, they foist command-and-control on the marketplace (the people) with predictable results.

As always, historians will marvel. The truth tellers that were smartphones matched to internet, along with the stock market itself (see where Apple does so much business, then think.), were telling us very clearly that there was no basis for panic. We the people didnt, but our political leaders did. Lets not let them off the hook so easily for their tragic errors, and lets also not let them forget their tragic errors.

Lastly, lets use the truth teller thats the internet to finally free the Cuban people. The whole world is once again watching.
Good morning, its Thursday, July 15, 2021. Six years ago today, President Obama held an afternoon press conference to defend the deal his administration had negotiated with Iran.

In its broadest outlines, the agreement -- formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action -- required Iran to dismantle much of its nuclear program and open its facilities to international inspections in exchange for sanctions relief. Notably, this included lifting barriers to Irans oil exports and the United States agreeing to return Iranian assets seized after the 1979 takeover of the U.S. Embassy in Tehran.

There was much about this agreement that gave Americans pause. For starters, the pact was essentially a multinational treaty, and probably should have gone through the Senate. Also, because Iran had always hidden its nuclear program, why would anyone think the regime wouldnt go to great lengths to evade detection of its continued efforts?

Finally, dispatching a plane with $1.7 billion in cash to Tehran just wasnt a good look for the Obama administration. There was a solid rationale for that step: Because the U.S. hadnt agreed to lift financial sanctions on Iran, the easiest way to return the assets was in cash. But critics couldnt help but wonder how much of that money would be used to fund terrorism in the Mideast and beyond.

Americans were reminded of that fear this very week when the Justice Department unsealed an indictment of four Iranian intelligence agents charged with a brazen plot to kidnap a prominent Iranian American journalist living in Brooklyn and take her back to Iran, presumably to silence her forever.

To his many critics, however, Barack Obama had a straightforward retort.

It is incumbent on the critics of this deal, he told reporters on July 15, 2015, to explain how an American president is in a worse position -- 12, 13, 14, 15 years from now -- if, in fact, at that point, Iran says, Were going to back out of the [deal], kick out inspectors, and go for a nuclear bomb.

Six years in, its still unclear how this chapter in U.S. diplomacy will ultimately be viewed. But the broader point made by the 44th U.S. president is valid. While citizens in a democratic republic should be skeptical of what they are told by politicians (and the press), those who simply criticize without offering realistic alternatives should be viewed skeptically as well.

On that note, Id point you to our front page, which aggregates, as it does each day, columns and stories spanning the political spectrum. Todays lineup includes Errol Louis (New York Daily News) and Byron York (Washington Examiner) taking opposite sides on Bidens comments about voting rights; Isabela Dias on critical race theory (Mother Jones); and four Democratic senators writing in USA Today about the effects of the expanded child care credit (USA Today). We also offer a complement of original material from RCP reporters and contributors, including the following:

* * *

Ethics Watchdogs Question Choice of Bidens Ambassador to Germany. RCP chief political correspondent Susan Crabtree explores the controversy surrounding the nomination of University of Pennsylvania President Amy Gutmann.

Why the Left Weaponized Race in the Culture Wars. Columnist J. Peder Zane asserts that the crusade against systemic racism masks a more fundamental effort to tear down the pillars of Western civilization.

Irans Latest Ploy for a New Nuclear Deal Is Doomed. At RealClearWorld, former State Department official Stephen Rademaker considers the proposal to superimpose a U.N. veto over Americas right to withdraw from any new agreement.

Catherine Lhamon Returns to Form. In a guest column, KC Johnson writes that Bidens nominee to head the Office for Civil Rights demonstrated at her confirmation hearing that she still doesnt support due process for college students accused of sexual misconduct.

Biden Saved Us 16 Cents -- While Harming Small Businesses. In an op-ed, Sarah Coffey urges the president to end pandemic-era unemployment bonus programs.

The Macro Subjectivity of Microaggression Studies. In the final part of RealClearInvestigations examination of social justice research, Richard Bernstein presents evidence of a woke research industry giving a gloss of objective truth to the conclusion that the U.S. is systemically racist.

Nuclear Energy: Systemic Risk or Climate Change Cure? In RealClearEnergy, freelance writer Geoffrey Pohanka analyzes our zero carbon option.

Red States Should Worry About Education Reform. At RealClearPolicy, author Lewis M. Andrews advocates the implementation of market-oriented changes before the local public-school monopoly becomes as costly and as invulnerable as it is in blue state cousins.

Revolts in Cuba Tell a Bigger Story. RealClearMarkets editor John Tamny argues that the turmoil should have those eager to break up Big Tech rethinking such an outcome.

C-SPANs Missing Metric in Ranking U.S. Presidents. Francis Sempa has a bone to pick at RealClearHistory.

Time Traveling by Airplane. RealClearScience editor Ross Pomeroy revisits an experiment that tested Einsteins Theory of General Relativity.

* * *

Carl M. Cannon

Washington Bureau chief, RealClearPolitics

@CarlCannon (Twitter)

ccannon@realclearpolitics.com
In case you missed it, the Biden administration saved you 16 cents. In a recent tweet, the White House cited a Farm Bureau report and declared the cost of an Independence Day BBQ was down 16 cents from one year agoproof, they say, the Biden economic plan is working.

If you buy groceries, pump your own gas, or spend money at all these days, its not lost on you how misleading this statement is. Prices have increased and continue to rise. While the administration celebrated the price of sliced cheese decreasing by one percentage point from last year, more relevant numbers tell quite a different story about how the administrations policies are affecting American families.

In the month of May alone, consumer prices increased 5%the largest jump since 2008. Gas prices are up an average of 95 cents a gallon from one year ago. A record 9.3 million jobs remain open, yet the federal government continues to pay people not to work.

Given these realities, its not surprising that many Americans arent buying it when the administration celebrates saving 2% on center-cut pork chops. So far, Bidens economic plan has resulted in outrageous spending, rewarded those who choose welfare over work, and stifled already struggling small businesses.

If the White House really wants to ease the economic burden on American families, itll start pursuing policies that help Americans return to work and kick-start small businesses. A solid beginning would be to encourage states to opt out of the federal unemployment bonus. While 26 states have already ended or plan to end the $300/week federal unemployment bonus, 24 states continue to opt in.

The effects are not surprising: In states that have ended the bonus, unemployment claims are decreasing. Just last week, the Department of Labors report showed that unemployment claims dropped nearly 40% in states that announced theyre ending the bonusmeanwhile, states that continue to opt in saw an increase in unemployment claims.

Ending pandemic-era bonus programs will in turn help small businesses that are feeling the strain of a labor shortage. Meanwhile, pandemic-related unemployment benefits encourage able-bodied Americans to stay home.

The net effect is that businesses struggle to find enough employees to keep their doors open. Whether experiencing longer wait times at a local restaurant or reading unusually desperate now hiring signs around town, we have the unemployment bonus to thank. Kiki Cyrus, owner of Kikis Chicken and Waffles in Charleston, S.C., is one of many business owners who are competing against their own tax dollars for employees. The Biden administration could help the American taxpayer out just by being a little more responsible with those tax dollars.

While the unemployment system was designed to provide temporary help to unemployed Americans, pandemic-era programs have made it an alternative to work that, in addition to hurting businesses, is costing the taxpayer millions in fraudulent and improper payments. Foundation for Government Accountability research shows unemployment fraud skyrocketed in the wake of 2020s expansion of programs, with resulting investigations increasing in many states by more than 1,000%. This means more wasted tax dollars, and fewer resources available to the truly needy.

Common-sense policies that promote work are the key to real economic rebound as we emerge from the pandemic and its related restrictions.

Americans feel the effects of poor economic policies every time they go to the grocery store, fill up their gas tank, or see their favorite local business shuttered because it cant find employees. They know better than to feel optimistic over a tone-deaf tweet that reveals little more than how much the White House misunderstands the struggles of the average American family.

If the Biden administration really wants to promote independence, itll get serious about promoting policies that promote work.
We shortchange the ambitions of the left and minimize the perils of our time when we focus on race. Race is just a weapon the left is using in its ongoing cultural revolution, which aims to dismantle the pillars of Western culture.

Academic activists and corporate apparatchiks who advance cancel culture and critical race theory in the name of racial reckoning are either sympathetic collaborators or useful idiots being manipulated by the left for their far broader and destructive project.

The left, which is dominated by the white intelligentsia, has seized on race because it is so fraught with the emotion of history and identity. Its a narrative that enables revolutionaries to exploit the founding principles of equality and fairness that define America and Americans. It allows race and gender theorists to prey on the guilt many feel about shameful aspects of our past to camouflage their ideological program as a moral crusade.

When they decry white supremacy, they are not talking about the small number of repulsive racists who still prowl the land, or even the Republican Party, which was founded to end slavery, but something far greater: the foundational ideas of our society that stretch back to the Greeks and Romans. They are using the hateful outliers who carried Tiki torches in Charlottesville to undermine Plato and Aristotle and other towering figures of Western culture.

In February the New York Times profiled a classics professor at Princeton who is spearheading the effort to redefine Western civilization as a euphemism for white civilization, which he reduces to the brutalist impulses of dominance and oppression. The Times reports that professor Dan-el Padilla Peralta has been speaking openly about the harm caused by practitioners of classics in the two millenniums since antiquity: the classical justifications of slavery, race science, colonialism, Nazism and other 20th-century fascisms.

That echoes arguments gaining traction in the academy which assert that many artists long considered transcendent are simply celebrated because of their race and gender. Philip Ewell, a black music theory professor, argues, for example, that Beethoven occupies the place he does because he has been propped up by whiteness and maleness for two hundred years. Could there be any other reason that the white, male, European composer was dubbed a master?

Lorena German, a black teacher from Austin, Texas, who is a member of a group called #DisruptingShakespeare, asserts that Shakespeare, like any other playwright, no more and no less, has literary merit. He is not universal in a way that other authors are not. He is not more timeless than anyone else. German is part of a nationwide K-12 movement to replace Western classics with activist texts emphasizing race, gender, identity and oppression.

These efforts are not happening in isolation. Just as the calls to remove Confederate monuments led to attacks on foundational figures of American history, including George Washington and Benjamin Franklin  demonstrating that the true target was not racism but the countrys history  the attacks on the giants of Western culture are one part of a broader movement to destroy, well, most everything.

The concept of race is useful here  claiming that math and science are bastions of white supremacy provides an avenue for attacking heretofore impenetrable fortifications. The same goes for the claim made in a poster distributed by the Smithsonian Institution that concepts such as individualism, hard work, politeness, being on time, the nuclear family and the written tradition are aspects & assumptions of white culture. Also in the crosshairs are the ideas of objectivity, neutrality, masculinity, free speech and the observation that some people possess more talent than others  which would come as a surprise to Michael Jordan and Yo-Yo Ma.

And, of course, there is the movement to deny the biological basis of sex  the ineradicable fact that females have two X chromosomes and males one X and one Y  and replace it with the idea that we only possess a gender, which is fluid. Hence, the Biden administrations recent move to reject the word mother in favor of birthing people.

At bottom, the left has embraced a wrecking ball ideology that seeks to raze all in its path. The main impulse is not to build a better world but to destroy all that exists. It might not be long before these postmodern Robespierres follow their archetypes in the French Revolution and propose a new calendar, erasing the past and restarting human history at Year One

Although it may seem that such efforts arise spontaneously in response to a specific injustice (the killing of George Floyd) or in response to a perceived threat (i.e. the election of Donald Trump), its intellectual roots run much deeper, as Helen Pluckrose and James Lindsay detail in their indispensable book. Cynical Theories: How Activist Scholarship Made Everything About Race, Gender, and Identity  and Why This Harms Everybody.

The gist of their analysis is that the collapse of the Soviet Union and communism was a disaster for Marxists in the academy. In response to the debunking of their own historical narrative, they set about tearing down every other one. Their project was largely destructive: They sought to deconstruct and problematize long-held ideals to render them untenable. Nothing is beyond their denunciations and cancellations. Social justice, race and identity politics have given them a powerful weapon in their quest to destroy the status quo and rehabilitate their failed Marxist doctrines in new guises: primarily race and gender.

I understand why conservatives are focusing on the rise of critical race theory and its sister concepts such as systemic racism, implicit bias, privilege and white fragility. It provides a meaningful shorthand for a hydra-headed movement that is hard to define because of it scale and unquenchable ambition. But the emphasis on race is counterproductive. It allows the left to define the terms of the debate in a manner that gives its efforts a moral legitimacy they do not deserve.

Whats going on is about much more than race. It is long past time we recognized that we are in the midst not of a culture war, but a cultural revolution, and muster the resistance it demands.
President Bidens choice of University of Pennsylvania President Amy Gutmann to be U.S. ambassador to Germany is spurring new controversy  and not just over quid pro quo concerns about her decision to pay Biden $911,000 in salary for an ambiguous professorial role at the prestigious college.

Gutmann is the second-highest-paid Ivy League president, receiving roughly $3.9 million in total compensation in 2020, according to the universitys latest publicly available 990 tax forms. Only Columbia Universitys Lee Bollinger makes more  reportedly $4.6 million in 2018  while all other Ivy League presidents earn less than $2 million annually, according to the latest figures available.

Ethics watchdogs have assailed the nomination as taking the pay-to-play practice of choosing ambassadors to new levels.

New presidents usually reward at least a handful of big campaign donors and bundlers with such plum posts even if they lack the foreign-policy credentials to become the chief U.S. diplomat in those countries. In some particularly embarrassing cases, the ambassadorial picks havent known even the basics about the nations in which they were chosen to serve.

In this case, Biden tapped Gutmann, a long-serving and widely respected university president but one with little if any foreign policy experience, to represent the U.S. with one of our closest allies. And the nomination comes after Gutmann was personally responsible for directing nearly $1 million in university funds to Biden in the 2 years before he launched his presidential run.

Its not unusual for universities to pay former presidents, secretaries of state and other top government officials six-figure fees for speeches. But watchdogs argue that the salary amount for a professorship in which Biden mainly delivered speeches without teaching a class raises ethics flags  especially considering the strong chance that Biden would run for president at the time the payments were made.

I dont mind as much payments to a president who is termed out. [Bill] Clinton wasnt going to run again. President Obama  same way, John Pudner, executive director of Take Back Our Republic, a conservative nonprofit, said in an interview. But a lot of people expected that Joe Biden was going to run for president again, and thats what changes it for me.

Pudner and other watchdogs also argue that Gutmanns nearly $4 million salary runs counter to Democrats push to make college more affordable and Bidens efforts to wipe out billions in student loan debt.

Overpaying administrators and a few faculty inflates academic compensation all over the country, driving the cost of college to astronomical new levels, Pudner and Richard Painter wrote in a Monday Newsweek op-ed. Democrats talk about making college affordable, and the possibility of canceling student debt, but people like Amy Gutmann are doing everything they can to drive the cost of higher education sky high.

Painter is a University of Minnesota law professor who served as chief ethics lawyer to President George W. Bush from 2005 to 2007 before becoming a top critic of Donald Trump.

Gutmann last year also spurred criticism for declining to emulate decisions by the presidents of five of the countrys top colleges  Harvard, Dartmouth, Brown, Cornell, and Stanford  to take a COVID-related pay cut of 20% or more for the academic year.

Every dollar of these recaptured funds will be used to help meet the financial aid needs of our undergraduate, graduate or professional students, Cornell Provost Michael Kotlikoff wrote in an email to students last year.

Instead of following suit, Gutmann kept her salary level as Penn instituted a hiring freeze and prevented employees making more than $70,000, including officers, deans and vice presidents, from an annual wage or stipend increase in the 2021 fiscal year.

Gutmanns lucrative salary is also raising questions about why she is receiving far more than other university presidents and whether it would trigger IRS action because its so high.

In order to demonstrate that the compensation is not excessive for a public charity to provide, large nonprofit institutions typically hire outside compensation consultants to study comparable salaries at similar organizations and file reports with salary recommendations to boards of trustees to approve, according to Michael Sanders, the lead partner of Blank Rome LLPs tax group. In such a case there would be a presumption of reasonableness, which shifts the burden to the IRS to prove that the compensational is unreasonable, Sanders explained.

The stakes are high if the IRS determines the salary is excessive because any amount deemed over the line must then be repaid, along with an added excise tax by the official who received it, Sanders told RealClearPolitics, citing section 4958 of the U.S. tax code.

University spokesman Stephen MacCarthy referred all questions about Gutmanns ambassadorial nomination to the White House while defending Penns decision to pay Biden $911,000 for the professorship. The former vice president and longtime senator served as Benjamin Franklin Presidential Professor of Practice, a position that didnt require him to teach a class. Gutmann helped recruit Biden, according to former Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell.

The appointment sparked criticism on the campaign trail last year after Biden claimed that he became a teacher after his term as vice president ended.

Rather than taking a Wall Street job, I became a teacher, became a professor, he said.

The Daily Pennsylvanian, Penns student newspaper, later clarified that Biden never taught a regular class but spoke at the university on at least five occasions. One of the visits included a dialogue with former U.K. Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, and in another he appeared with Gutmann to discuss international relations and cancer research.

MacCarthy characterized Bidens affiliation with the university as phenomenally successful.

As our Benjamin Franklin President Professor of Practice, he helped to expand Penns global outreach while sharing his wisdom and insights with thousands of Penn students through seminars, talks and classroom visits, he said.

Biden brought prominent world figures to Penns campus for forums and conferences to discuss and debate critically important issues including immigration, climate change, Brexit, national defense and global diplomacy, he added.

MacCarthy didnt respond to RCPs questions about Gutmanns salary and whether it undercuts Bidens college affordability goals. He also didnt respond to a question about whether the university had hired an outside compensation expert to ensure that its packages are comparable to those of top officials at other Ivy League universities.

A White House spokesperson argued that Gutmanns qualifications and reputation speak for themselves.

President Biden is thrilled to have nominated her for this important position, the spokesperson said. If confirmed, we look forward to Gutmann representing the Biden-Harris administration and the United States with such an important ally in Germany.

Gutmann is the daughter of a Jewish immigrant who fled Nazi Germany and is a longtime advocate for making college more affordable. She often touts her schools all-grant policy for undergraduate financial aid as the largest in the country with more than $1.4 billion disbursed since 2008. A Penn bio says she has raised more than $9 billion for the university since 2004.

In 2009, President Obama appointed her as chair of the Presidential Commission for the Study of Bioethical Issues during the Zika and Ebola health crises. During Hillary Clintons 2016 presidential campaign, her name was floated as a possible pick for education secretary  Cabinet-choice speculation that circulated again last year after Biden won the White House.

Biden has a long history with the university as well as with Gutmann. His late son, Beau, daughter Ashley and grand-daughter Naomi are all Penn graduates. Biden himself received an honorary degree from the university in 2013. In addition to recruiting Biden for the professorship, Gutmann created the Penn Biden Center for Diplomacy and Global Engagement in Washington, D.C., in early 2018.

Along with Gutmanns decision to pay Biden $911,000, her large salary could become an issue during her upcoming Senate confirmation process.

Pudner, along with Take Back Our Republic President and Board Chairman Francis Johnson, is calling on Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro to open an investigation into whether Penn is violating its charitable tax status by paying excessive executive compensation to Gutmann and other top university officials.

Executive compensation in nonprofits is a matter subject to investigation and potential litigation by the state attorney general, the pair wrote Shapiro. Unlike a for-profit corporation, there are no shareholders to act as a check on self-dealing. That is the job of the attorney general.

Shapiro is a longtime Democrat who is unlikely to act on that request. He previously served in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and has been mentioned as a possible candidate for governor.

But the salary questions could cause headaches in Gutmanns Senate confirmation process, although Republicans cannot block the nomination if all Democrats support her.

In the letter to Shapiro, Johnson and Pudner also took issue with the compensation the university doled out to Biden, raising the prospect that it could have been paid, at least in part, through foreign donations to the university. Last year a Philadelphia Inquirer report found that Penn received at least $258 million in foreign money from 2013 through mid-2019, with the most funds, $68 million, coming from Chinese entities, and another $2.75 million from Saudi Arabias Ministry of Defense and other Saudi entities.

In 2015, the university established the Penn Wharton China Center in Beijing, which the university calls an important hub through which Penn students and faculty can further grow exchanges with China.

A university web page spotlights a Gutmann visit to the center and an evening in Beijing event she headlined.

If there was any quid pro quo arrangement  for example, a promise to [Gutmann] of an appointment similar to the ambassadorship for which she now has been nominated  that would also be a violation of nonprofit law, Johnson and Pudner argue in their letter.

If Penn was used as a conduit for passing money from foreign donors to a presidential candidate, that also would be a matter of great concern, they noted. We expect all nonprofits, regardless of political ideology or political affiliation of their leaders, will be held to account by the attorney general of the states where they are organized, do business and where they raise funds.

A separate conservative group, the National Legal and Policy Center, last year filed a complaint with the Department of Education, calling for a full investigation into whether Penn directed any of the Chinese funds to the Biden Center. The complaint came after the DOE launched investigations against Harvard and Yale for failing to report foreign donations.

MacCarthy at the time said Penn had never solicited any gifts for the Penn Biden Center but did not say if the university directed any of the Chinese funds to the center.
The real-life story of convicted neurosurgeon Christopher Duntsch, first adapted into the Dr. Death podcast, launches Thursday as a TV series on Peacock. Jackson, who plays Duntsch, said the doctor's comforting bedside manner sold his patients on surgeries that left them permanently injured.

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"I think Duntsch is very much a narcissist," Jackson told UPI in a recent Zoom interview. "He is playing the character of the good doctor, and the good doctor has good bedside manner."

Based on real-life events, the series begins in 2012, when Dallas Medical Center spinal surgeon Robert Henderson (Alec Baldwin) performs a corrective procedure on one of Duntsch's former patients. Duntsch had been a spinal surgeon at Baylor Plano hospital in Dallas since 2010.

Patients would emerge from Duntsch's operating room permanently maimed or paralyzed. Baylor Plano vascular surgeon Randall Kirby (Christian Slater) teamed up with Henderson to pursue malpractice charges against Duntsch.

"[Kirby's] opinion is that this guy never should have operated on anything other than mice," said Slater, who spoke with Kirby. "For him to have come into the operating theater was a horrible mistake."

Assistant District Attorney Michelle Shughart (AnnaSophia Robb) takes on the case in Episode 4 of the series. Robb said she spoke with the real Shughart prior to filming and learned she maintained a cordial demeanor while prosecuting her cases.

"My favorite thing she told me was, 'I can still be nice to you and put you in jail for life,'" Robb said. "The kindness that she leads with and the sort of empathy are not what you'd expect from a prosecutor."

Another whistleblower was Josh Baker (Hubert Point-Du Jour), an operating room nurse who witnessed Duntsch's surgeries. Point-Du Jour said he did not get to speak to the real Baker, but believes Kirby and Henderson gave Baker the confidence to come forward.

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"He's sort of passing the baton on to people in a more powerful position, who can have a greater effect on stopping Dr. Duntsch finally," Point-Du Jour said.

Duntsch is serving life in prison for aggravated assault on a total of 32 patients. Duntsch was not available to Jackson, but Jackson said he would not be interested in meeting Duntsch anyway.

"He's delusional, and his delusion is pretty clear," Jackson said. "I'm not sure that I would have found truth by having access to a liar."

Instead, Jackson relied on the Wonderly podcast, Dr. Death, on which the TV series is based. Series creator Patrick McManus provided Jackson with additional research material.

"There is no simple why for this guy," Jackson said. "It took nature and nurture and interaction with systems and some fluke happenstance."

The series also portrays Duntsch's addictions to drugs like cocaine and LSD. Jackson said he agreed those were contributing factors to Duntsch's negligence, but he did not lay the blame solely on substance abuse.

"I don't want to give Duntsch that out," Jackson said. "It supported him in living inside of his narcissistic fantasy, but I don't think that cocaine is the thing that was wrong with Christopher Duntsch."

In subsequent episodes, Robb said, she studies the cases in question to develop an understanding of her dialogue in the courtroom scenes. Robb said she prepared for scenes similar to the way Shughart prepared for a trial.

"Knowing what I was saying and understanding the biology of all of the cases was important to helping me memorize," Robb said. "I basically just did what you would do in a normal case to understand what I was saying."

The Dr. Death cast members all said they hoped the show makes viewers aware of potentially deadly flaws in the healthcare system. Slater said the series will show how Duntsch manipulated protections his hospitals provided him to continue operating until Kirby and Henderson stepped in.

"We put doctors on such a high pedestal," Slater said. "They're fallible and they make mistakes. They're not gods, so you have to do your research."
By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 07/14/2021



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Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.

and Life After Lockup star Tracie Wagaman has passed away at the age of 41.Tracie died in Las Vegas on July 1 just one week after giving birth to her second child, a daughter, Starcasm reported The cause of or circumstances surrounding Tracie's death have yet to be disclosed, but her brother Mark Wagaman conducted an YouTube interview with Sharrell's World in which he revealed an investigation is ongoing."People please stop spreading rumors. Nobody knows what's going on," Mark reportedly said."The family, we don't know what's going on. When the investigation is over, we'll all know. But as of right now, we don't know what's going on. So please stop spreading rumors because y'all don't know either."Mark said he hadn't spoken to Tracie in a while after a big argument but he was the first person in his family to learn of Tracie's passing.Mark told Sharrell's World that sharing the tragic news with their mother was a devastating moment for him."I don't wish this on anybody," Mark shared of the experience. "The screams -- I don't wish it on anybody. It was the most horrible thing Iave ever dealt with in my life."Mark admitted his mother is "not in good shape," adding, "She has her moments when things seem to be getting okay, but... it's going to be a timely process."Tracie initially appeared on Season 2 of , which concluded in March 2019, where she was was shown being released from prison after eight years behind bars for fraudulent checks and a parole violation.Immediately after her release, Tracie got married to Clint Brady, her co-star and now ex-husband, in a ceremony held at a saloon in Houston.However, Tracie continued to struggle with boundaries and her drug addiction while married to Clint.Tracie, who also later appeared on two seasons of Life After Lockup with Clint, was arrested again for drug possession in August 2019 after suffering a drug relapse.She admitted on Instagram a month earlier that she could "smoke crack" and "do meth" whenever she wanted and didn't care what other people thought of her."I'm not going to say I gave up on her, but there was nothing else I could offer her. And all I could do was sit back and hope to God that she would ask me for help one day," Mark explained.After her divorce from Clint, Tracie dated Matt Baier and then moved on with the father of her second child, Luke Loera, whom she allegedly accused of domestic abuse in early 2021, according to The U.S. Sun.Luke was reportedly arrested earlier this year in Las Vegas and is now facing one felony and two misdemeanor charges.Despite her wild-girl portrayal on reality TV, Mark said he wants Tracie to be remembered as a fun-loving and outspoken girl."I guarantee you, you give her a minute or two and you're gonna love her to death. Absolutely love her! She has that, just that personality. She can talk to anybody and just, you know, just put a smile on their face," Mark shared of his late sister."I don't want people to think that my sister is what you saw on the show," he added."Yes, there are bits and pieces of it that may be true, but... she really was a loving individual and cared for a lot of people... I'm really finding that out here in the last couple days."
TRAVERSE CITY [mdash] Lee Harrison Gardner, of Traverse City, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2021, surrounded by his wife and children. He was born on Nov. 18, 1950 to the late Polly Isabel (Harrison) and Stephen Vandergrift Gardner. Wife Candy (Smith) has been the love of his life for o
Sally Barber is a newspaper reporter and travel writer who has written for more than 25 of the states visitor bureaus and chamber of commerce organizations. She is author of The Michigan Eco-Traveler: A Guide to Sustainable Adventures in the Great Lakes State available through University of Michigan Press.
Porterville, CA (93257)

Today

Some clouds in the morning will give way to mainly sunny skies for the afternoon. High 103F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

A mostly clear sky. Low 72F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.
High speed rail may  or may not be  part of budget
The logo behind the ladies represents the different fiber arts the center supports. H is weaved, O is a spinning wheel, K is knitted, C is crocheted. The logo is made by the partners at HOKC. Members, from left, include Barbara Kreaseck, Kandi Jackson, Clover Rogers, Bella Moreno, Molly Conroy, Diane Hara, Carol McCarthy, Charla Rosa, Brigid Kumler and Paty Lembo. Not pictured are Lisa Teichgraeber, Dulce Bec and Roxanne Chavez.
Greenville, NC (27833)

Today

Thunderstorms likely. High near 75F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
Greenville, NC (27833)

Today

Thunderstorms likely. High near 75F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms early, then variable clouds overnight with still a chance of showers. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

Rain showers this morning with some sunshine during the afternoon hours. High 76F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Mostly clear. Low near 60F. Winds light and variable.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

Rain showers this morning with some sunshine during the afternoon hours. High 76F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Mainly clear. Low near 60F. Winds light and variable.
FILE - Rioters try to break through a police barrier at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington. Former President Donald Trump is falsely describing the circumstances of Ashli Babbitt's death as he foments conspiracy theories about the siege of the Capitol on Jan. 6 and all the love in the air that day.
In this July 28, 2014, file photo, lightning strikes over Lake Mead near Hoover Dam that impounds Colorado River water at the Lake Mead National Recreation Area in Arizona. Lawmakers in Congress have introduced a bill that would pump tens of billions of dollars into fixing and upgrading the country's dams. The bill, introduced by Democratic U.S. Rep. Annie Kuster of New Hampshire, proposed to spend nearly $26 billion to make the repairs that would enhance safety and increase the power generation capacity of the country's dams.
Residents of John Knox Village wear goggles as they participate in a virtual reality study June 1 in Pompano Beach, Fla. The senior community is in partnership with Stanford University's Virtual Human Interaction Lab on a study to see how older adults respond to virtual reality and whether it can improve their sense of well-being. From left are Bruce Voelkel, John Dalsimer, Andrea Hipskind and Janet Anding. (AP photo/Lynne Sladky)
TOKYO (AP)  Toyota plans to hire more people and invest heavily in its subsidiary Woven Planet to work on mobility technology so the Japanese automaker stays competitive amid the global shift to using artificial intelligence and robotics in everyday driving.

Toyotas traditional strength in hardware is something we never want to lose. To make safe mobility we need both, great hardware and great software, Woven Planet Holdings Chief Executive James Kuffner said. The world is changing. The automotive industry is going through this once-in-a-hundred-year revolution. And so how do we remain relevant?

Woven Planet, fully owned by Toyota Motor Corp., announced Thursday it had acquired CARMERA Inc., based in Seattle and New York. The value of the deal was not disclosed.

CARMERA specializes in sophisticated road mapping updates made cheaper and faster by using crowdsourced information obtained in real time from millions of net-connected Toyota vehicles.

Winning social acceptance for such technology is as much of a challenge as perfecting the software, Kuffner said.

When a person crashes, we have empathy for that person. We all make mistakes, and we think: That could have been me. If a computer crashes, people have no empathy, Kuffner said in an interview with The Associated Press from Portland, Oregon.

Making a computer system that is just as good as a human may not be good enough, said Kuffner, who sits on Toyotas board and is based in Tokyo. He earlier was part of the initial engineering team that built Googles self-driving cars.

In April, Woven Planet acquired Level 5, the self-driving division of Lyft, for $550 million. That deal, once approved, will increase Woven Planet's headcount from 860 to more than 1,000 people.

Kuffner said he wants to possibly quadruple that number, while avoiding getting too bloated or too bureaucratic.

Toyota has held up relatively well during the pandemic and has cash, while companies that did not fare as well are downsizing. That is providing investment opportunities, he added.

Woven Planet's Woven Alpha team is developing an automated mapping platform. Formerly called the Toyota Research Institute, it has been collaborating with CARMERA since 2018.

All major automakers are working on similar technologies, and no one is ahead of the pack, said Koji Endo, auto analyst with SBI Securities Co. in Tokyo

Were talking about two or three decades into the future, and so no one really knows for sure, to be honest, Endo said. That's why automakers are partnering or investing in several players to hedge their bets. But one thing is clear: No one wants to fall behind.

Technologies that allow cars to communicate with each other, drive themselves and slash emissions will mean improved safety, less traffic congestions and quicker parking, he said.

Kuffner said he hoped to bring his Silicon Valley-type expertise to Toyota, a company known for its craftsmanship in hardware.

Some things were going to do are going to fail. But, as I always tell my team, it isnt a failure if you learn. We are always going to be learning, in the spirit of kaizen and improvement, Kuffner said, using a long-time Toyota manufacturing term.

___

Yuri Kageyama is on Twitter at https://twitter.com/yurikageyama
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Back in 2002, when I was reporting on Jeffrey Epsteins finances for Vanity Fair magazine, he was not a household name. During that time, I paid a visit to the Federal Medical Center, Devens in Devens, Massachusetts, to meet with an inmate, one Steven Hoffenberg.

We sat in a little room near a recreation area, Hoffenberg dressed in the requisite orange jumpsuit, while I, several months pregnant with twins, was dressed per prison requirements: as shapelessly as possible.

It was an absolutely intriguing meeting.

Hoffenberg was serving 18 years in prison for committing a $450 million Ponzi scheme. In the 1980s, hed been running Towers Financial, a debt collection and reinsurance business, and had worked alongside Epstein, who was a paid consultant. Hoffenberg told me that Epstein had plans to turn Towers into a global colossus  through illegal means.

But Hoffenberg was so transfixed by Epstein and his ideas that he had even paid the rent for Epsteins office space. (Now, he says, he was stupid and greedy for doing so.)

Hoffenberg told me with a sad grin that he represented a problem for Epstein because while they were working together, Epstein had confided in him as to how, exactly, he made a career out of conning people and institutions  not least because the idea was that theyd do it together.

Hoffenberg said that Epstein had a term for the perfect execution of the grift. He called it playing the box, which meant that he ensured that even if his crime was uncovered, the victim would be unable to do anything about it, either because of social embarrassment or because the money was tucked away in a place where they couldnt either find it or get it.

(What Hoffenberg had failed to realize, he told me, is that Epstein would con him. Epstein would take $100 million of Towers money, move it offshore, and meanwhile cooperate with U.S. prosecutors against Hoffenberg, who was unable to do anything about this because hed pleaded guilty, which meant there was no trial  and therefore no discovery.)

I cant prove all of Hoffenbergs claims  but some of them are accurate.

I have discovered, for example, that Epstein certainly did secretly cooperate against Hoffenberg and gave at least three interviews to prosecutors, and that had the case gone to trial, a source with knowledge says it would have likely turned out far worse for Epstein than for Hoffenberg.

Hoffenberg also knew something else Epstein wanted hidden, according to Hoffenberg: He claimed that Epstein moved in intelligence circles.

The Hoffenberg-Epstein relationship was not something Epstein, then pitching himself to Vanity Fair as a money-manager extraordinaire for billionaires only, had volunteered to me.

So when I gingerly raised Hoffenberg to Epstein, and mentioned I had documentation showing that the two were linked, the financier turned really nasty.

He maintained he hardly knew Hoffenberg, hed just consulted briefly on a couple of deals, that hed not been involved in any prosecution of Hoffenberg and that if I wrote any different, things would turn out badly for me. Here is exactly what he said:

If theres any implication of wrong doing, I will take legal action against you personally. Im telling you so you understand. I will be as harsh as I possibly can personally  not for the magazine, but you, because I had this discussion with you. This relationship is with you. You shouldnt risk your future for a job.

Now, Epsteins sensitivity regarding Hoffenberg was equal to his sensitivity on what he called the girls.

He went berserk if you mentioned either subject.

In hindsight, one has to wonder if Hoffenberg presented an equally big problem as the girls would. Hoffenberg told me that in the 1980s, after Epstein left Bear Sterns in ignominious circumstances, Epstein was trained in moving money off-shore and that a mentor of Epsteins was someone Hoffenberg knew: a British defense contractor, who died in 2011, named Douglas Leese.

Hoffenberg claimed that Leese was an arms dealer. (Leeses son Julian says that is not true.) But the U.K. parliamentary record does mention Leese in reference to the El Yammamah arms deal of the early 1980s.

I remember distinctly that in our first meeting Hoffenberg told me that Leese was pivotal in understanding Jeffreys MO, because Leese had introduced him not only to aristocratic Europeans (who Epstein subsequently fleeced) but to all sorts of people in the arms business  including the late Turkish-born businessman Adnan Kashoggi  and, allegedly, the late media mogul Robert Maxwell.

Back in 2002 I didnt pay much attention to this.

This was because Epstein breezily threw me off.

First, Epstein told me hed never met Maxwell. And I asked him twice if he knew Leese, whom I had never heard of, and Epstein said no. The second time, he elaborated:

Douglas Leese  I think he was the father of somebody I knew  I think his son was friendly with Ferranti, thats where that whole crowd comes in that you asked me about a long time ago. I think his name was Nicholas  it was sort of that 66th Street building, I think they might have all lived there.

So, I forgot about Leese. And I didnt bother to pursue the notion that Epstein had known Maxwell.

But all these years later, Leeses name popped up again in my new reporting for a podcast and a documentary series about Maxwells daughter Ghislaine, who is currently awaiting trial on charges of helping Epstein in his alleged sex-trafficking operations of minors. (She has denied all charges.)

First, I found a lawsuit filed by Leese in Florida, in which he asserted that he was involved with various highly confidential business enterprises including business in the United States, some of which involved governmentally- involved or other highly confidential business projects.

Second, a source who requested anonymity because of the sensitivity of what was discussed told me that Epstein had invited the source to join him and Leese on a private-jet trip to the Pentagon in 1981.

Even Leeses son Julian told me that his father was a mentor of sorts to Epstein in the 1980s and was totally shocked that Epstein would have pretended not to know him.

So why Epsteins silence on Leese?

And was his denial about knowing Robert Maxwell equally meaningless?

What about the spy stuff?

Hoffenberg told me that Epstein had said hed worked on several projects with Robert Maxwell, including solving Maxwells debt issues. (Maxwell died in 1991, under vey strange circumstances, apparently having fallen off his yacht, the Lady Ghislaine, in the middle of the night and it was discovered in the aftermath that hed stolen 100s of millions of dollars from the pensions of his employees.)

Epstein had also told Hoffenberg that via Maxwell and Leese he was involved in something that Hoffenberg described as national security issues, which he says involved blackmail, influence trading, trading information at a level that is very serious and dangerous.

So heres where it gets tricky.

Four separate sources told me  on the record  that Epsteins dealings in the arms world in the 1980s had led him to work for multiple governments, including the Israelis.

Some of these sources are more reliable than others. But the gist of the claims that you will be able to hear, and ultimately watch in a three-hour documentary series, is that Maxwell, who was himself a conduit between the Israelis and other governments during his life time, introduced Epstein to Israeli leaders, who then allegedly used Epstein as the equivalent of an old-fashioned Russian sleeper, someone who could be useful in an influence campaign.

The sources, who range from former arms dealers to former spies  and also Hoffenberg  suggest that Epstein, who lacked any sort of moral compass, decided to go one step further and compromise influential people by recording them doing things they wouldnt want made public.

All of this is completely unprovable. And people close to Robert Maxwell say it sounds ridiculous.

But heres whats odd.

First, Epstein did visit Israel in 2008, with a view to moving there permanently and avoid his jail time in 2009 for the state charges he was convicted of. On his return, he told Russian model Kira Diktyar that hed changed his mind and decided to face the music. (He didnt mention hed avoided a far more serious federal investigation, thanks to a cushy non-prosecution agreement.)

And once he got out of jail, in the last 10 years of his life, Epstein bragged to various people, including journalists, that he was advising a whole assortment of foreign leaders who included Vladimir Putin, Mohammed bin Zayed, Mohammed Bin Salman, various African dictators, Israel, the British  and, of course, the Americans.

He also told several of the same people that he was making a fortune out of arms, drugs, and diamonds.

He told one person, journalist Edward J. Epstein, that he knew the owner of the deep-water port of Djibouti on the horn of Africa, a smugglers paradise, so well that he was basically in charge of it.

Now, according to my sources in the intelligence world, this is hyperbole  but also not completely ridiculous. His name was mentioned as a middleman in both Africa and the Middle East. He was known in the intelligence world as a hyper-fixer, somebody who can go between different cultures and networks.

Usually these people are very silent about what they do.

And yet Epstein was not silent. He had a photo of the Saudi crown prince, MBS on the wall, and photos of Bill Gates and all the VIPS who flocked to his salons.

Its not wholly surprising therefore that the same sources who say they know he was some sort of intelligence asset say that he became a liability  which is why, possibly, he lost any protection and was arrested.

A handful of people I interviewed, including former Mossad agent Victor Ostrovsky, maintain that this is exactly what happened to Robert Maxwell, which is why, they say, Maxwell was killed. His financial problems were about to make him vulnerable. (His death was officially said to be because of a heart attack.)

Who knows what to make of all this?

But, when I think back to 2002, when I first met Steve Hoffenberg, I do remember asking him why he thought that Epstein, normally reclusive, had raised his head above the parapet and attracted media attention by flying Bill Clinton to Africa.

Hoffenberg had smiled.

He cant help himself. He broke his own rule, Hoffenberg said. He always said he knew the only way he could get away with everything he did was to stay under the radar, but now hes gone and blown it.

Vicky Ward is the host of the Audible Original podcast Chasing Ghislaine, which premieres July 15th.

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The national debate over which city or states pizza is the best often includes mentions of New Havens apizza. But theres a quieter  and sweeter  debate taking place online over the city's Italian pastry shops.

In a Facebook group called Wooster Square Cooks, sharing favorite pastry shops  along with pizza places, recipes and food photos  is nothing out of the ordinary for its over 28,000 members.

When it comes to pastry, the pastry shops of choice among its members stem from sentimentality. For member Anita Sabia Diglio, Lucibellos Pastry Shop has been a family tradition for over 50 years.

My family has been buying pastries and cookies since before my wedding in 1965 [and we] tried others but [they were] never the same, she said in an email, noting that she got her Italian cream wedding cake from the bakery. Just on June 30, 2021, we had my husband 80th birthday cake from themOver the years, all our special occasions have been from them.

Fellow Wooster Square Cooks member Irene Perrotta DiCaprio said shes shopped at Libbys, DiSorbos Bakery in Hamden and sometimes visits Roccos Bakery on Ferry Street for its chocolate lemon pie or bread. Noting that all of them are good, DiCaprio said her pastry preference is with Lucibellos.

Nicole Funaro / Hearst Connecticut Media Group

As someone who didn't grow up in the New Haven area (Bostonian  my family was from the Italian North End), my first experience with pastry shops here was our (rum) wedding cake from Lucibello's 46 years ago, she said in an email. My husband's family's history with them goes back to when my father-in-law was a boy.

Living in East Haven for most of her life, Wooster Square Cooks member Cathy Sessa Mallory has also made the rounds to New Haven haunts like Roccos and Lucibellos. But for her, local Petonitos Bakery is the shop of choice.

Why travel to New Haven when you can get great Italian pastries and cakes in East Haven? she said in an email. Back in the day, East Haven was a part of New Haven anyway, so we are an extension of the Italian community.

For DiCaprio, what keeps her going back to Lucibellos is its similarity to shops in Italy.

Their sfogliatelle taste exactly like the ones we enjoyed at our favorite pastry shop in Sorrento, she said. We know  we conducted careful research as soon as we returned from Italy, buying and sampling pastries at three or four different shops here.

Nicole Funaro / Hearst Connecticut Media Group

New Haven pastry spans generations

According to Colin M. Caplan, author of several books on New Haven history (including one on pizza) and owner of Taste of New Haven food tours, New Havens pastry scene has a similar mystique to that of its pizza landscape.

Given their age and continued family legacies, both Libby's and Lucibello's Italian pastry shops have cemented their place in Connecticut's food history because of their unparalleled quality, service and experience, he said in an email. Both shops were considered important enough 60 years ago that they were given a chance to move to new quarters when the strong arm of redevelopment came through Wooster and Chapel Streets.

Libby's

Located on Wooster Street, Libbys Italian Pastry Shop was opened in 1922 by Liberato and Guiseppina DellAmura, and according to member of the founding family Marc DAngelo, the shop was churning out sweet treats from its inception.

Our family immigrated from Italy and had some relatives already here in the New Haven area is how we settled in New Haven/Wooster Street, he said in an email. We always made pastries and other desserts from the start.

DAngelo said its top-selling item remains its cannoli.

We make the traditional cannoli and also have flavored cannoli available that have toppings on them and are filled with different flavored ricotta (peanut butter, pistachio, cappuccino are a few examples), he said.

Next year, the shop will celebrate its 100-year anniversary, DAngelo said, and he hopes to host a big celebration for the shops customers to commemorate the milestone.

Lucibello's

Just a few minutes away on the corner of Grand Avenue and Olive Street is Lucibellos Italian Pastry Shop, which was established in 1929 by Frank Lucibello. Current owner Peter Faggio said his father, also named Frank, began working for Lucibello at age 10 at the stores original location on Chapel Street. Years later in the 1950s, Frank Faggio purchased the business and its name from Lucibello, said Faggio, and the business was relocated in 1961 to its current Grand Avenue spot.

With traditional cannoli, pasticiotti, sfogliatelle and other Italian bakery items on the menu, Faggio said he attributes Lucibellos longevity and appeal to its consistency.

Everything  for the most part  that was offered in 1929 is still offered today, he said. Obviously, there are new additions, whether that be a new filling or something, but I can honestly say all of our cookies are the same recipes and the same cookies, same with all of the pastries. Weve never had to introduce any American desserteverything has been consistent.

Even the birthday cakes follow the same Italian rum cake recipe from the beginnings of Lucibellos, Faggio said.

Nicole Funaro / Hearst Connecticut Media Group

It brings [customers] back to their childhood, and then they bring their children, he said. And then people come back and have their wedding cake and come back for 50th anniversary cake or their children's wedding cakes.

Petonito's

In East Haven, Petonitos Pastry and Cupcake Shoppe opened its doors in 1954 under the original name of Petonitos Pastry by Salvatore and Dolores Petonito, according to current owner Regina Criscuolo.

Initially serving cannoli, sfogiliatelle and buccinotti, as well as Italian cakes and cookies, Criscuolo said in an email that her family took over the pastry shop two and a half years ago and maintained the stores traditions while adding their own.

We have added a bridal suite for our couples to pick out their wedding cake, she said. We not only make all of the original pastries, cakes and cookies, but also have added a wide variety of cupcakes, donuts, muffins and more. We now offer donut walls, dessert tables, carnival nights with fried dough, funnel cakes and fried Oreos and do numerous charity events.

While the cannoli remains Petonitos top-selling item (the shop now has Cannoli of the Month club), Criscuolo said the bakery has a seasonal favorite.

Our zeppoles for Saint Joseph's Day are also a top seller during zeppole season, she said. We sold over 8,000 last year.

Nicole Funaro / Hearst Connecticut Media Group

Is pastry as competitive as pizza?

According to Caplan, there is just as much loyalty to the Italian pastry shops in the New Haven area as there is to its pizza.

Libby's and Lucibello's are the Pepe's and Sally's of pastries in New Haven  tried and true, serving loyal customers for 100 years and pastries so well crafted, he said. With respect to other pastry stops that have nearly as long a history like DiSorbo's [Bakery] in Hamden and Petonito's in East Haven, they too have a loyalty only matched by locals' passion for apizza.

Caplan offered that having this loyalty turn into a more hotly-debated topic like pizza cant be ruled out, especially in this competitive world where reviews, lists and favorites become marketing tools. Yet its something that might already be taking place online, Caplan said.

It's not uncommon to see intensely obsessed foodies getting their sugar fix and binging on cannoli runs at various pastry shops, voting on which one rules, he said. On hot summer days, the wise beeline to their true love pastry shop for some soothing Italian ice, knowing they will be coerced into scarfing down some sweet pastries as well.

At Lucibellos, Faggio said seeing the development in the area offers a way for the establishment to further engrain itself into the fabric of the city.

The area, to me, is building back up with a lot of families and all of these apartment buildings, he said. Its becoming more of that Grand Avenue feel like it used to be, and we like being a part of New Haven and being here and part of this whole section.

While small in comparison to ... Boston's North End and The Bronx, Caplan noted that this growth in New Haven might expand the reputation of New Havens Little Italy, both regionally and beyond.

Nicole Funaro / Hearst Connecticut Media Group

Not only does New Haven have its historic pastry shops, pizzerias and restaurants, but it's dynamically growing with new Italian restaurants, pizzerias and shops., he said. This rejuvenation is spilling back over to the old school joints and a symbiotic relationship is fueling the resurgence of our Little Italy.

What makes New Haven stand out  and Libbys and Lucibellos, in particular  according to Caplan is that they draw upon their native Italian roots without straying far from tradition.

The main consideration for New Haven's Italian pastry shops is where the originating family hailed from: Libby's came from Castellammare di Stabia near Naples and Lucibello's came from Amalfi, just south of there, he said. Both are true to their traditions and have also adopted pan-Italian treats found in most Italian American pastry shops. For those moving to New Haven looking for a taste of home, they may find heartfelt recipes, flavors and personality at one of our old Italian pastry shops.
BANGKOK (AP)  An American journalist detained in Myanmar told his lawyer he believes he has COVID-19, but prison authorities deny he is infected.

Danny Fenster was detained at Yangon International Airport on May 24 as he was trying to board a flight to go to the Detroit area in the United States to see his family. He is the managing editor of Frontier Myanmar, an independent online news outlet based in Yangon, Myanmars biggest city.

Fenster has been charged with incitement for which he could be sentenced to up to three years imprisonment. The military-installed government that took power in February has tried to silence independent news media by withdrawing their licenses and by arresting dozens of journalists.

The U.S. government and press freedom associations have been pushing for Fenster's release.

Fenster is being held in Insein Prison as Myanmar faces a coronavirus surge it is ill-equipped to fight, with a public health system in tatters due to the political turmoil that arose in reaction to the militarys ouster of the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. It has a very small supply of COVID-19 vaccines.

Health authorities on Thursday reported 4,188 new cases of the coronavirus, bringing Myanmars official total since the pandemic began last year to 212,545. There were 165 deaths recorded, bringing the total to 4,346.

Fensters lawyer, Than Zaw Aung, said his client told him during a video hearing that he is infected with the coronavirus and has not received medicines he requested.

Insein Prison began a two-week lockdown on July 8 due to the virus surge. Fenster participated in Thursday's brief pretrial hearing from the prison, while the lawyer took part from a township court.

The court ordered Fenster held until another hearing on July 28, his lawyer said. It is unclear when his actual trial will begin.

Than Zaw Aung said last month that Fenster is charged in connection with his work at a previous job, as a reporter and copy editor for another online news site, Myanmar Now.

Myanmar Now, along with several other media outlets, had its license revoked in early March, banning it from publishing on any platform. However, it has continued its operations.

Fenster resigned from Myanmar Now in July last year and joined Frontier Myanmar a month later, so it is unclear why he was arrested, his lawyer said.

Danny should never have been arrested and we are disappointed that he has not yet been freed. On top of that, he is now also at risk of being infected with COVID-19, Frontier Myanmar editor-in-chief Tom Kean said in a text message Thursday. There is no point in holding Danny any longer  the authorities should release him immediately so he can go home to his family.

Chan Aye Kyaw, a spokesman for Insein Prison, said Fenster was not infected with the virus.

He said that since Fenster is a foreigner, the prison provides up-to-date information on his condition. If the virus was found in him, we will report it. But now Daniel does not have the disease, he said.

Chan Aye Kyaw said every prisoner is tested for the virus when police bring them in.

If they were found positive, we keep them in a dormitory for positive patients and they will be provided with medical care. There are more than 30 patients at the positive dormitory. They are separated from other prisoners, he said.
SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine (AP)  A pipeline company has dropped a federal lawsuit against a Maine city, bringing an end to a yearslong legal battle over a local law that stopped the company from bringing crude oil from Canada.

South Portland and Portland Pipe Line Corp. were in court for more than six years over the city's Clear Skies ordinance. The law stopped the pipeline company from reversing the flow of an old pipeline to bring the crude oil to Maine.
GRAIN VALLEY, Mo. (AP)  Police say they were led to human remains buried on the property of a home in unincorporated Jackson County outside of Kansas City, Missouri, by a teenager who has accused the homeowner of sexual abuse.

The Kansas City Star, citing court records, reported the teenage girl told police the homeowner had told her he killed a woman and hid the body. He also showed her photos of a womans dismembered body, the girl told investigators.
SOUTH WINDSOR  A local police officer who died Tuesday from injuries he suffered in a serious off-duty crash last month with an allegedly intoxicated driver was remembered by the department as a proactive officer and valuable team player.

South Windsor Police Officer Benjamin Lovett died Tuesday morning at Hartford Hospital after a crash in Tolland on June 26 that left him with significant injuries. He was 25.

Lovett joined the South Windsor police ranks in April 2018, when he was hired by then-Chief Timothy Edwards. Lovett graduated from the police academy on Sept. 20, 2018, and joined the departments Field Training Program during his probation period, officials said.

During that time, police said, Lovett demonstrated himself to be proactive, effective and a valuable team player. He was assigned as a patrol officer in the Operations Division, where police said he excelled and grew as a new officer.

In spring of 2020, Lovett was temporarily assigned to the Criminal Investigation Bureau, which police said was an experimental assignment to give newer officers exposure to more specialized positions. Lovett proved himself a capable apprentice, they said.

In May of that year, he tested for the job of narcotics investigators, and was assigned to the East Central Narcotics Task Force  a regional team made up of Manchester, Vernon, Glastonbury and South Windsor officers.

Officer Lovett became a valuable asset to the team and continued to grow in his abilities and talents as an investigator working with the other agencies, police said.

Lovett served as an emergency medical technician, a certified Crisis Intervention Team member and held numerous investigation and narcotic training certificates, police said.

He received the 2020 Mothers Against Drunk Driving recognition award.

Most of all, Benjamin was a valuable member of the department, an easy going and bright officer, a friend and a coworker who will be greatly missed by his family at the South Windsor Police Department, police said.

Vernon police posted a tribute to South Windsor Officer Ben Lovett on social media late Tuesday, offering condolences to Lovetts family and the South Windsor department.

Ben was a tremendous investigator and member of a regional narcotics task force and worked closely with many Vernon officers, Vernon police said. Ben was the epitome of a hardworking and knowledgeable police officer, but more importantly, he was our friend.

Wethersfield police said Lovett was on his motorcycle during the June 26 crash. Tolland fire officials said the collision happened at the intersection of Crystal Lake and Hunter roads early that morning. The roadway was closed for several hours as crews cleared the crash site and state police investigated.

As fellow police officers we grieve for Ben and are frustrated because this tragedy was entirely preventable, Wethersfield police said in a social media post about Lovetts death. There is no excuse for drunk/drugged driving. This senseless act ruined the lives of countless people and took the life of a beloved son, brother and police officer.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
WICHITA, Kan. (AP)  No one was injured when a small plane made an emergency landing in a field just outside northwest Wichita, officials said.

The incident happened around 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, the Sedgwick County Sheriffs Office reported. The 41-year-old Wichita man piloting the single-engine Piper Sport was flying to Augusta, Kansas, from Boulder, Colorado, officials said, when he experienced engine failure and was diverted to Wichitas Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport.
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP)  Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has ordered an investigation of allegations that some members of state intelligence agencies knew and met with people who carried out Easter Sunday bombings in 2019 that killed more than 260 people, a government official said.

The Catholic Church in Sri Lanka wrote to the president on Tuesday raising concerns about the government's handling of the suicide bombings and asking it to investigate alleged links between intelligence personnel and the group that carried out the attacks.

Two local Muslim groups that had declared allegiance to the Islamic State group carried out six coordinated attacks on churches and leading tourist hotels, killing 269 people. Another man did not carry out a planned attack at a fourth tourist hotel but killed himself later by exploding the bomb at a different location.

The letter from the National Catholic Committee for Justice to Easter Sunday Attack Victims, a group of bishops and priests led by Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, called on the president to take legal action against former President Maithripala Sirisena for negligence as recommended by a presidential inquiry commission report.

Sirisena's government came under heavy criticism for not acting on near-specific foreign intelligence warnings that an attack was imminent.

Media Minister Keheliya Rambukwella said Wednesday that all of the findings of the commission have been handed over to proper authorities.

There are so many things flowing in and the best thing the president can do is to refer them to relevant authorities," Rambukwella said. The president has referred all of them to relevant authorities for further action."

The church group also said former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe should be investigated because the report concluded that his soft approach to Islamic extremism had led to the attacks.

The letter also said authorities have not taken legal action against 11 police officers, two officials from the Attorney General's Department, and two Muslim politicians named by the commission.

Several lawmakers have spoken in Parliament citing witnesses who appeared before the commission as saying that members of state intelligence agencies met with the man who withdrew from the initial attack before committing suicide. The letter from church officials cited speeches in Parliament as saying that intelligence personnel allegedly had a suspect in police custody released.

The presidential commission report has not been released to the public. A single volume was given to lawmakers and the entire report was provided to the Attorney General's Department for prosecution.
TORRINGTON  When the School Building Committee last met, estimates for the new middle-high school project showed a total cost of $186.4 million, an increase of nearly $27 million over the $159 million voters approved in November 2020.

Several City Council members are concerned by that increase, and said the committee must not allow the project to exceed the amount approved by voters.

Residents approved spending $159 million, and were hearing its much more, said council member Paul Cavagnero. He called for more accountability and direct reporting from the committee on the projects spending plans.

Council member Sharon Waagner also was concerned, and said residents were contacting her about it. People are upset, she said.

But building committee Chairman Ed Arum said Wednesday that the whole project still is in the planning stages, and that there is plenty of contingency money to cover any extra costs. He also noted that during this part of the committees work, changes can be made to the design that could mitigate potential overruns.

Its amazing to me that the City Council members are surprised by the information were providing, when they were at the last meeting in June and heard the whole discussion, he said. They were all there. We were over by $8 million, but we have a $25 million contingency fund for designs and construction. Thats standard for any project.

We cant go over the approved amount  everyone knows that, and thats why we review every design, every element, he said. The voters approved this project, and we will meet that number.

Arum said every council member receives the agendas and accompanying handouts for each meeting, and are welcome to attend them. Cavagnero has complained about a lack of transparency on the project during previous council meetings.

It bothers me a little bit that the council members are saying things like this, when they were there and heard and saw everything, Arum said.

Torrington chose Construction Solutions Group LLC of East Hartford as the project construction company. CSG will be in charge of the construction of the new middle-high school and central office administration at 50 Major Besse Drive, and will oversee demolition of the old high school building. O&G Industries also is part of the construction of the school. The project designer is SLAM Collaborative, an architectural firm in Glastonbury. Those agencies were chosen earlier this year.

During the building committees June 24 meeting, Arum said Construction Solutions, O&G and SLAM worked with him, committee member Mario Longobucco, Assistant Superintendent Susan Fergusson and Superintendent of Schools Susan Lubomski to review costs and make changes to the designs that would save money.

For example, we eliminated a corridor around the gym, that saved us about $750,000, he said. We also reduced the project by making changes to the basement area, and that cut 4,400 square feet from the building overall. That saved us more than $1 million. As we go along, these are the kinds of changes were talking about.

Nothings been taken out that will affect the Torrington school system, Arum said. This is the schematic design process, where we look at every single thing and figure out if it can be changed, or if it should be changed. Once we complete that, the next step is design development. Those are the priorities were on now.

More information on the project and recorded meetings can be found at torrington.org.
Gov. Ned Lamont has needed executive authority since the COVID-19 outbreak in March 2020 to help Connecticut navigate efficiently through this once-a-lifetime crisis. With the unpredictable Delta variant looming and schools set to reopen in little more than a month, we believe those emergency powers will be needed in the next few months.

The General Assembly on Wednesday was right to grant Lamont an extension through Sept. 30 for orders necessary to maintain safety during the pandemic. The vote divided mostly along party lines, with all Republicans opposed to granting an extension to the Democrat. Nine Democrats in the House and four in the Senate also broke from the majority.

Lamont has not abused this authority so far. He issued orders rapidly during the early weeks of the pandemic, but most concerned health. COVID positivity rates have begun climbing again. This is not the time to relax the states guard.

Objections from conservative camps arose quickly in 2020, as businesses were divided into essential and non-essential categories. Had some businesses not been shuttered, however, and residents not been mandated to wear masks, the consequences are obvious: More people would be dead.

House Republican leader Vincent Candelora of North Branford argues that The Legislature in Connecticut is taking up more of a role of Parliament.

Such rhetoric has fueled protest signs outside the Capitol bearing the words Stop King Ned.

Lamont told the Hearst Connecticut Media Editorial Board last week, Folks in this building didnt want to be stuck having to decide six months ago (whether to) keep the bar open? Close it? Wear a mask? Nobody really wanted to make that decision. It was kind of handy to say, Neds a dictator ...

We have, at times, questioned the extensions ourselves, equally anxious for the balance of traditional power to be restored. But there is still wisdom in The Man Who Would be King author Rudyard Kiplings logic that he travels the fastest who travels alone.

King Ned, as critics have dubbed him, is not without watchdogs. Executive orders can by spiked through a veto from a majority of legislative leaders from both parties. To date, no orders have been vetoed.

The latest orders, by the way, relate to issues such as mandating masks for certain settings, turning commuter lots into vaccination clinics and increasing time for tenants to pay back rent.

We all want the pandemic to be over. But, as Yogi Berra reminded us when he managed the New York Mets through a tight September 1973 pennant race: It aint over till its over. The Mets were at the top in the end, but that scenario had a deadline. This one does not. For now, we could still run the daily headline, The pandemic aint over.

The Legislature is not as nimble as Lamont when emergencies arise. Until this is truly over, he should have the power to keep the people of Connecticut safe.
From concerts to parades, festivals and more, the Miami County Republic is the place to find out about events in the community.

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TAMAQUA  An overdose awareness event aimed at supporting recovery and remembering loved ones will be held Saturday at the Owl Creek Reservoir in Tamaqua.

This marks the sixth time that Safer Streets for Tamaquas Little Feet has hosted Out of the Darkness into the Light  and it comes at a time when overdose deaths are on the rise.

This event shows that you can have fun in Schuylkill County without using drugs and alcohol, said Tammy Sienkiewicz, who co-founded Safer Streets with her husband, John.

Sienkiewicz and others involved in drug prevention organizations said the past year has been especially difficult for those dealing with substance abuse disorders.

There have been a lot of relapses, she said. What happened was the pandemic told us to isolate, but the substance abuse epidemic tells you not to isolate.

Support meetings went virtual and those in treatment lost the personal connections they needed. Many relapsed, she said.

According to information from Overdose Free PA, there were 120 overdose deaths in Schuylkill County in 2020, up from 91 in 2019 and 77 in 2018.

Most deaths were the result of opioids, said Eileen Panzarella, prevention director for Pathway to Recovery in Hazleton. She believes the COVID-19 pandemic could be to blame for those spikes in overdoses, as well as for the relapses.

There was so much going on, she said. People were afraid to come in. We never shut down, they were just afraid because of the coronavirus.

Narcotics Anonymous and other group support meetings were canceled or held virtually.

Just the stress of the pandemic was increasing peoples use, especially people new to treatment who didnt have the coping skills, Panzarella said. Many were relapsing.

Perfect storm for overdoses

The problem isnt limited to the region.

We are seeing an increase in overdose deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic and it is critically important for Pennsylvanians to remain focused on the overdose epidemic, said Alison Gantz, a spokeswoman for the state Department of Drug and Alcohol. For individuals with substance use disorder, the struggles of the past year including job loss, financial insecurity and stress have created the perfect storm for overdoses.

She noted that 5,040 drug overdose deaths were reported in Pennsylvania in 2020, up from 4,458 in 2019.

Overdose deaths across the nation reached a record 93,000 in 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic, according to statistics released Wednesday by the federal government. The figure is about 29% more than the 2019 high of 72,000 deaths.

Despite the numbers, Sienkiewicz, of Tamaqua, wants people to know that there is hope  and it can be found at the Saturday event.

Lots of people who show up at the festival are people in recovery, she said. A lot of our volunteers are in recovery. We want to show people that recovery is possible. It happens every day.

Breaking the stigma

The Sienkiewiczes founded Safer Streets following the sudden death of their daughter, Alexandria, in April 2016.

The reason we started this was because we didnt know what to do or where to go, Tammy Sienkiewicz said. When we put our daughters obituary in the newspaper, we were the first in Schuylkill County to say that she died of a fentanyl overdose. So many parents came up to us and said, Me, too. 

The honesty, Sienkiewicz said, helped open lines of communication.

People didnt talk about it because it was embarrassing, she said. Theres a stigma, and we are still trying to break that stigma. Substance abuse education is the key to ending this epidemic. There is never too much information out there.

There will be more than 20 informative resource tables at the event, which runs from noon to 6 p.m. There will be games for kids, live music, free popcorn and sno-cones, a guest speaker and a 5 p.m. candlelight walk to remember those who lost their lives to overdoses.
Coal Mountain Animal Rescue is seeking donations to cover an emergency surgery for a 7-month-old dog rescued from a kill shelter.

Angela Kapusnick, founder of the county foster-based rescue, said Monday that Bailey, a Catahoula-boxer mix, was recently saved from a Texas kill shelter and was in good condition until several days ago.

She was spayed on June 16, and she was a happy, healthy puppy, Kapusnick said. Then she took a turn for the worse. She was vomiting and hiding, and she had a fever.

Bailey was taken Sunday to BluePearl Pet Hospital in Shillington, where she underwent emergency surgery. She developed sepsis due to an allergic reaction after being spayed.

The infection has been brewing since she was spayed, but there were no signs until now, Kapusnick said.

The bill came out to $9,774.99, a high price for the nonprofit rescue that only formed last year.

Alyson Altman, another Coal Mountain staff member, said Bailey is one of 11 medical cases that the rescue currently has.

Were new, so were not looking for medical cases, but we take them, and we pray and hope donors step up, Altman said.

She said Coal Mountain is a three-person team, all with long backgrounds in animal rescue and a goal of keeping dogs out of shelters where they could be euthanized. The organization does not have a central facility, but places rescued animals in foster homes.

Along with medical cases, Altman said, the rescue takes owner surrender cases, such as pets of people who get sick or die.

Our goal is servicing the community and keeping animals out of shelters, Altman said. Helping keep dogs out of shelters saves lives, too.

Coal Mountain Animal Rescue accepts donations through Venmo @coalmountainanimalrescue, Cashapp $coalmountainanimal and Paypal coalmountainanimalrescue@gmail.com.

Updates on Bailey and others are posted on the Coal Mountain Animal Rescue Inc. Facebook page and @coal_mountain Instagram.

Through social media, Altman said she hopes to raise awareness about the rescue to find both donors and fosters.
POTTSVILLE  A Girardville man charged by state police with threatening Schuylkill County District Attorney Michael A. OPake waived his right to a preliminary hearing Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge James K. Reiley.

Edward K. Brown, 59, of 18 N. William St., was charged by Trooper Shawn Tray of the Frackville station with terroristic threats and harassment for allegedly calling OPake around 11:15 a.m. June 2 and leaving a threatening voice message on his phone at the Schuylkill County Courthouse.

Prior to the hearing before Reiley, Brown waived his right to a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge Thomas Xavios, Frackville, on charges involving an assault on state police troopers Jonathan Davis and Thomas Powell that happened two days later when they attempted to serve an arrest warrant for the OPake incident.

In the case involving OPake, Tray said Brown was upset with state police and staff at the Schuylkill County Prison and said anyone connected with that prison, such as you, any state police, any government official, I am now allowed to kill, Tray said.

Tray said Brown told OPake in the voicemail, You will be killed if I feel that you participate in this (expletive) prison system, which I know you do at all.

He dared OPake to send police to him because he told state police he would kill them, too.

Have a good day and maybe good end to your life, his message concluded, according to Tray.

Tray said OPakes secretary, Ellen Leffler, had been told by Brown the call was a matter of life or death. After being advised by Leffler that she needed more information, Brown requested OPakes voicemail and left the message, Tray said.

Trooper Andrew Moyer said that at approximately 9:15 a.m. June 4, Powell and Davis went to Browns house to serve an arrest warrant in connection with the threats. Brown partially opened the door, but would not allow the troopers in and refused to come out, Moyer said.

Davis and Powell could hear Brown saying look through the window one more time, I dare you, Moyer reported.

After forcing their way into the home, the troopers saw Brown at a stairway balcony. He refused to cooperate and threw a large piece of a glass mirror at the troopers as they made their way up the staircase, Moyer said.

Brown then came toward the troopers with a 9-inch serrated kitchen knife in his left hand, elevated over his ear, Moyer said. When he refused to put the knife down, the troopers fired their Taser weapons. Brown was taken into custody without further incident.

Moyer charged him with three counts of aggravated assault, two counts of simple assault and one count each of recklessly endangering another person, resisting arrest and flight to avoid apprehension, trial or punishment.

By waiving his right to a hearing on both cases, Brown will have to answer to the charges in Schuylkill County Court, where he can plead guilty or enter a not guilty plea and request a trial.

He remains in Schuylkill County Prison in lieu of $25,000 straight cash bail set by Reiley for the charges filed by Tray and $50,000 straight cash for the charges stemming from the incidents involving troopers Davis and Powell.
MCADOO  The borough council wants to cut the fuse on aerial fireworks.

During his report to the council at Tuesday nights monthly meeting, Mayor Dane Watro said that fireworks were out of control in the borough as of late, prompting complaints from residents.

The mayors report sparked a discussion among council members. The only solution they could find was sending a letter to their state officials to encourage the laws repeal.

In 2017, the state permitted the once-banned sale of consumer-grade fireworks to the 18 and older crowd at brick-and-mortar stores.

Those fireworks, which are different from the ones sold at roadside tents and also from those set off by professionals, have a maximum of 50 milligrams of explosive material.

However, state law still prohibits them from being set off within 150 feet of an occupied structure, whether or not people are actually present in the structure.

That means those fireworks cant be set off anywhere in McAdoo, Watro said.

He said if police officers see someone lighting one, they will be cited.

Your state legislators are the ones who passed this ridiculous nonsense, the mayor added.

The borough cant even create an ordinance banning them because the state law has precedence over local laws, Councilwoman Alberta Bumbulsky said.

So were the ones looking like jerks, she said, when residents call local elected officials urging them to put an end to the fireworks.

After the meeting, Watro said that he had heard four complaints, while the council had heard about a half-dozen from residents.

Additional state restrictions on fireworks prohibit them from being discharged by anyone under the influence.

They also cant be lit from, or directed at, a vehicle or building, and a person must have permission from the owner of the property where the fireworks are being set off.

In other business:

 Councilman John Shigo suggested that handicap parking signs be reviewed annually to ensure they are still needed by applicants. Bumbulsky said that she knew of several situations in which the original applicant no longer lived at the property with the sign. The council approved purchasing six handicap signs to fill new residential requests, as well as parking restriction signs for a borough-owned lot at Veterans Memorial Park on Kelayres Road near Grove Street in Kline Township.

 The council approved opening up a money market account for its American Rescue Plan money. This way it will be easy to keep track of; It wont get comingled with anything else, council President William Slovik said.

 The council agreed to increase the pay of part-time summer worker Dave Ervin by 50 cents per hour, retroactive to the first day he worked. When raises were given out at the beginning of the year, he was overlooked.

 PPL will install four new streetlights, at no additional cost, to areas of the borough.

 The council agreed to continue using Zoom for its meetings so members of the public who cant attend can follow along remotely. It costs about $31 per month.
New Delhi, Jul 15 (PTI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is representing India at a two-day conference on regional connectivity in Tashkent, which is being attended by Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and leaders from several other Central and South Asian countries.

The high-level conference on July 15-16 is aimed at coming out with a broad roadmap for significantly boosting connectivity between Central Asia and South Asia, officials said.

They said the conference titled "Central and South Asia: Regional Connectivity. Challenges and Opportunities" will extensively deliberate on practical ways to enhance connectivity with a larger aim of deepening trade, investment and people-to-people ties in the region.

"Began my Tashkent visit by inaugurating the IT room of India-Uzbekistan Entrepreneurship Development Centre - a shining example of our Development Cooperation. Confident that it will support talented Uzbek entrepreneurs," Jaishankar tweeted.

The external affairs minister met Ghani, US Deputy National Security Advisor Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall and US Special Representative for Afghan peace process Zalmay Khalilzad on the sidelines of the conference on Thursday.

The connectivity conference is being attended by the representatives of leading international organisations, including financial institutions. The main sessions of the conference will be held on Friday.

The conference, hosted by Uzbekistan, is also likely to deliberate on the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan.

It is learnt that Uzbekistan favours India to play a key role in regional connectivity projects.

In December, India, Iran and Uzbekistan discussed ways for a joint use of the strategically-located Chabahar port for trade and enhancing regional connectivity.

The trilateral meeting took place in the backdrop of India pitching for the participation of Uzbekistan in the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) project.

The INSTC is a 7,200-km-long multi-mode transport project for moving freight among India, Iran, Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia, Central Asia and Europe.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a virtual summit on December 11 last year during which ways to speed up regional connectivity projects were discussed extensively. PTI MPB RC

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Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat and the chief of National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO) met Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami in Delhi to discuss issues of development in the border areas. As per a statement issued by the Uttarakhand Chief Minister's Office (CMO), issued related to the development of border areas were discussed during the meeting at a great length. Uttarakhand shares borders with China and Nepal.

CM Dhami wants police verification of people in hilly regions

Uttarakhand CM Dhami said development programmes in the border areas of the state should be given priority owing to the state's strategic importance and added that plans to stop migration from these areas would be worked out. CM Dhami further said that the formalities required for the construction of roads and bridges are being completed at the earliest owing to the state's strategic importance.

Called on Chief of Defense Staff General Shri Bipin Rawat ji in New Delhi today. During this, various topics related to the development of Uttarakhand, especially the development of the marginal areas, as well as the police verification of suspicious people coming from outside in the hilly areas of the state were also discussed, CM Dham iwrote on Twitter.

Dhami asks CDS Bipin Rawat to resuming recruitment rallies

CM Dhami noted that Uttarakhand was a sensitive state in view of the disaster and that the Army had always played an important role in the relief and rescue operations in the event of a disaster and that there is better coordination between the state government and the military administration. CM Dhami also requested the resumption of recruitment rallies that previously could not be held due to the COVID pandemic.

They also discussed Police verification of suspicious people coming from outside in the hilly areas of the state. CDS General Bipin Rawat assured all possible cooperation in the development of the border areas of the state. NTRO Chief Anil Dhasmana said that full assistance will be given for the development of drone technology in Uttarakhand.

(IMAGE: ANI - TWITTER)
New Delhi, Jul 15 (PTI) India on Thursday said that it is "very" keen to finalise an agreement on fisheries subsidies in the WTO as irrational benefits and overfishing by many countries are hurting domestic fishermen and their livelihood.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal also said that WTO member countries still need to cover significant ground to make the negotiation text on the agreement balanced to meet the concerns of developing and least-developed countries (LDCs).

"We still need to cover significant ground to make the text balanced, to meet the just concerns of developing and LDC Members," Goyal said during an online ministerial meeting of the WTO (World Trade Organisation) on the crucial fisheries subsidy.

The meeting was organised to iron out differences and conclude the negotiations soon to finalise text so that an agreement on fisheries subsidies can be reached in the forthcoming ministerial meeting of WTO in December in Geneva.

"India will be submitting proposals very soon to address our concerns including incorporating 'common but differentiated responsibilities' in sharing this common endowment," he said.

He expressed disappointment that the membership is still short of finding the right balance and fairness in the agreement.

"India is very keen to finalize the agreement because irrational subsidies and overfishing by many countries is hurting Indian fishermen and their livelihood," he added.

The minister pointed out that it is essential that big subsidy providers take greater responsibility to reduce their subsidies and fishing capacities, in accordance with the principles of 'Polluter Pays' and 'Common but Differentiated Responsibilities'.

Goyal cautioned that the WTO members should not repeat the mistakes made during the Uruguay Round three decades ago that allowed unequal and trade-distorting entitlements for select developed country members, particularly in agriculture.

"These unfairly constrained less-developed members who did not have the capacity and resources to support their industry or farmers then. Goyal expressed concern that any unbalanced or unequal agreement now would bind us into current fishing arrangements, which may not meet future requirements," the minister said.

He said that the proposed agreement has to provide for current and future needs as the per capita fisheries subsidy given by most developing countries is minuscule compared to advanced fishing nations.

Countries like India who are yet to develop fishing capacities, "cannot sacrifice their future ambitions" and allowing advanced nations to continue grant of subsidies is "unequal, unfair and unjust," he noted.

On special and differential treatment (S&DT), he said it is required to not only protect livelihoods of poor fishermen but also to address food security concerns, have necessary policy space for developing the fisheries sector and the need for a larger time period for any transition.

"India is committed to concluding the negotiations, as long as it provides for balancing current and future fishing needs, preserving space for equitable growth in fishing capacities in future, and an effective S&DT without any imbalances," he added.

While developed nations are pushing for prohibitions on subsidies, India wants an equitable and balanced outcome as the country provides support to its small and marginal fishermen who depend on the sector for sustenance.

Unlike rich nations which provide billions of dollars of subsidies to their fishermen, India's subsidy amounts to only about Rs 770 crore. The government provides subsidies on things like fuel and boats.

The objective of these ongoing negotiations is to discipline subsidies with the overall objective to have sustainable fishing and to eliminate IUU (illegal, unreported and unregulated) fishing subsidies and prohibit subsidies contributing to overcapacity and overfishing.

The 12th Ministerial Conference will take place from November 30 to December 3, 2021, in Geneva, Switzerland.

The sector provides livelihood to about 16 million Indian fishermen and fish farmers at the primary level and about twice the number along the value chain.

WTO negotiations on fisheries subsidies were launched in 2001 at Doha, with a mandate to clarify and improve existing WTO disciplines on fisheries subsidies. PTI RR MR MR

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The Delhi Police Crime Branch has arrested a spy from Pokhran in Rajasthan under the Official Secrets Act. The spy was booked for passing on sensitive information from the Indian Army to Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The 34-year-old accused has been living in Jaisalmer for a few years now.

The accused, Habibur Rahman has now been charged with Official Secrets Act for spying on the army. Rahman had been working as a vegetable supplier on a contract basis in Jaisalmer for the last few years. According to the police, Rahman worked for the ISI and had also been in Pakistan for some time. The officials have now seized confidential Army documents and a map of the Army area from him.

The accused has claimed that the documents were given to him by Paramjit Kaur, an Army personnel deployed in Agra. According to officials, Rahman was supposed to hand over documents to one Kamal. Following his arrest, a few other persons have also been detained by the Crime Branch. The accused is now being questioned for any further details. The spy case investigation is underway.

Chinese intruder nabbed at Bangladesh border

Earlier in June, the Border Security Force (BSF) had nabbed a Chinese intruder attempting to enter India at the Bangladesh border. Han Junwe, the Chinese national, was picked up by the BSF South Bengal Frontier, who later revealed that Junwe is a wanted criminal. The BSF had said that many facts have indicated that he was working for the Chinese Intelligence Agency in India. According to the BSF statement, Junwe, upon thorough interrogation, revealed some shocking facts including him having taken 1300 Indian SIMs to China using fake documents from India.

According to the details handed, the smuggled SIMs were used to hack accounts and to do other kinds of financial frauds. This is believed to be done for raising money for unlawful acts. The BSF had also recovered 1 Apple Laptop, 2 iPhone Mobile, 1 Bangladeshi SIM, 1 Indian SIM, 2 Chinese SIM, 2 Pen Drive, 3 Battery, 2 small torch, 5 money transaction machines, 2 ATM/Master Cards, US Dollars, Bangladeshi Takas and Indian currency from the arrested intruder.

IMAGE: ANI/PTI
A Picasso painting will be put up for sale on the blockchain in the form of "tokenized" shares. Sygnum, a digital asset bank, and Artemundi, an art investment company, have partnered to tokenize Picassos Fillette au beret painting. The artwork was painted by Pablo Picasso in 1964.

Shares of Picasso painting

The art investment company said that this marks the first time the ownership rights in a Picasso, or any artwork, are being broadcast onto the public blockchain by a regulated bank. It enables the investors to purchase and trade shares in the artwork called Art Security Tokens (ASTs)", Artemundi said in the press release. The shares or "tokens" of the web will be put on sale with a minimum subscription price of 5,000 Swiss francs. Tokens will be available for subscription to professional and institutional investors exclusively through Sygnum, a FINMA-regulated Swiss Bank. Mathias Imbach, Co-Founder and Group CEO of Sygnum Bank said that this will give investors direct access to the ownership.

"It has been Sygnums mission from the start to empower investors with more direct access to ownership and value. The tokenization of the Fillette au beret exemplifies how we bring our mission to reality, unlocking a universe of unique investment opportunities that can be made accessible to many", said Mathias Imbach.

Pablo Picasso painted Fillette au beret in 1964. The artwork shows a bust of a girl in the centre of the canvas, over a yellow background that degrades from left to right, according to the press release. The strong colour palette of green, red, black, yellow, and blue shown in Fillette au beret evokes an intensive and powerful time in the artists life. The painting has been exhibited in museums worldwide such as Galerie Beyeler in Switzerland, the Moderna Museet Museum in Sweden, the Kunsthalle Nurnberg in Germany, the LACMA and Phoenix Art Museum in the US.

IMAGE: PabloPicasso_Arty/Instagram
With India firmly conveying to China that the prolongation of the existing situation in eastern Ladakh was visibly impacting the bilateral ties in a "negative manner", Beijing on Thursday said it is ready to seek a mutually acceptable solution to the issues that require "emergency response" through negotiation and consultation.

During their hour-long in-person meeting on the sidelines of an SCO conclave in Dushanbe on Wednesday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also told his Chinese counterpart and State Councilor Wang Yi that any unilateral change in the status quo along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) was "not acceptable" to India and that the overall ties can only develop after full restoration of peace and tranquillity in eastern Ladakh.

The meeting in Tajikistan's capital took place amidst a stalemate in the disengagement process between the two militaries in the remaining friction points in eastern Ladakh after they withdrew troops and weapons from the Pangong Lake areas in February following series of military and diplomatic talks to resolve the standoff since May last year.

In a statement posted on its website on Thursday on Wang's talks with Jaishankar, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said, the minister stated the overall situation in the border area has de-escalated after the withdrawal of troops from the Galwan Valley and Pangong Lake areas.

However, the relations between India and China are still at a low level which is not in the interest of either side, Wang said.

While reiterating China's oft-repeated stand that it was not responsible for the China-India border standoff, Wang, however, said that "China is ready to find a solution acceptable to both sides on the issue that needs emergency response through negotiation and consultation."

"The two sides must place the border issue in an appropriate position in bilateral relations, expand the positive momentum of bilateral cooperation and create favourable conditions for resolving differences through negotiation," he said.

The nature of China-India relations is how two adjacent developing countries look at each other, co-exist in harmony and help each other succeed, he said.

"China's strategic assessment of China-India relations has not changed. China and India pose no threat but offer development opportunities to each other. The two countries are partners rather than rivals or enemies," the Chinese foreign minister said.

The principles of China-India relations should still be mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, mutual non-aggression, non-interference in each other's internal affairs, and mutual respect for each other's core interests, he said.

The interaction between the two countries should still be seeking mutual benefits and complementarity, pursuing healthy competition and avoiding confrontation, with cooperation as the main theme, Wang said.

While China moved its troops from Galwan Valley and Pangong Tso, the disengagement has not been completed from other friction points like Hot Springs, Gogra and Depsang in eastern Ladakh.

In his meeting with Wang, Jaishankar firmly conveyed that the prolongation of the existing situation in eastern Ladakh was visibly impacting the bilateral ties in a "negative manner" and rued that there was no forward movement from the Chinese side since the disengagement in Pangong Lake areas in February that had created conditions for resolving the remaining issues.

Unilateral change is status quo not acceptable: Jaishankar

Jaishankar told Wang that any unilateral change in the status quo along the LAC was "not acceptable" to India and that the overall ties can only develop after full restoration of peace and tranquillity in eastern Ladakh, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs on the talks.

Wang, according to the Chinese foreign ministry, also said that the two sides must consolidate the results of disengagement that have been achieved, strictly abide by the agreement and common understanding of the two sides, and "refrain from taking unilateral actions in sensitive and controversial areas, in order to avoid any recurrence of tensions due to misunderstanding and miscalculation."

"We must take a long-term perspective and gradually move from emergency response toward regular management and control, to avoid unnecessary interruptions of border-related issues to China-India relations," he was quoted as saying by the Chinese foreign ministry statement.

Recalling their last meeting in Moscow, in September 2020, Jaishankar also emphasised the need to follow through on the agreement reached then and complete the disengagement, resolving the remaining issues along the LAC in eastern Ladakh at the earliest.

It has been reported that each side currently has around 50,000 to 60,000 troops along the LAC in the sensitive sector.

The Chinese foreign ministry statement pointed out that during the meeting between Wang and Jaishankar, both sides believe the two countries must lift bilateral relations out of the low level and achieve healthy and stable development. The two sides encourage strengthening consultations on the border issue through the existing mechanism to consolidate the achieved results, and working towards turning emergency response to regular management and control to safeguard the peace and tranquillity of the border area, the statement added.
Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Thursday addressed the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL). Asserting that the involvement of external forces has negatively impacted the country, he said that the next few months are crucial for Libya and elections should be held in a free and fair manner.

"There has been a sense of optimism with regard to the situation in Libya over last few months, especially since the signing of Ceasefire Agreement on October 23, 2020, and formation of Govt of National Unity charged with the conduct of elections on December 24, 2021," Shringla said. There has been a sense of optimism with regard to situation in Libya over last few months, especially since the signing of Ceasefire Agreement on Oct 23, 2020 & formation of Govt of National Unity charged with the conduct of elections on Dec 24, 2021: Foreign Secy HV Shringla pic.twitter.com/2FC0iWfqHR  ANI (@ANI) July 15, 2021

Adding that there are still concerns, India's Foreign Secretary said, "Security situation and economy remain fragile. Involvement of external forces in Libya's internal affairs has negatively impacted progress on the political track."

"Next 6 months are critical for Libya. Polls need to be held as planned on Dec 24, 2021, in a free and fair manner. Libyan parties particularly 'Libyan Political Dialogue Forum' need to drive workable solutions. We also urge the State to frame required legislation for polls," he said.

Shringla added that no terrorist groups should be allowed to operate in Libya unchallenged. "The continued presence and activities of ISIL in Libya is of serious concern. The provisions of Ceasefire Agreement and successive Security Council resolutions need to be respected," he said.

Libya crisis

Corruption and turmoil have plagued Libya since longtime ruler Muammar Gaddafi's death in 2011. In recent years, the Islamic nation has been divided between the United Nations-recognised government in Tripoli and rival authorities based in Libya's east.

The presidential and parliamentary elections will take place on December 24, 2021. The polls were previously been planned for early 2019 but were delayed after east-based commander Khalifa Haftar launched a military operation to capture Tripoli.

Haftar's dreams were shattered after Turkey supported the UN-recognised government with thousands of troops. Following this, both agreed to a ceasefire agreement that led to the December elections.
Bangladesh will lift its nationwide coronavirus lockdown for the countrys second-biggest religious festival, the government announced even as coronavirus cases continue to rise. The Muslim majority country is set to hold the Eid al Adha festival, which honors Prophet Mohammads willingness to sacrifice his son, from July 20 to 22 this year.

The Sheikh Hasina administration asserted that removal of the curbs would normalize economic activities ahead of the celebrations. Tens of millions of people usually head back to their villages to mark Eid al Adha with their families. At present, strict COVID lockdown restrictions are in place to curb the recent outbreaks of coronavirus with people only permitted to leave their homes for emergencies and to buy essentials.

COVID in Bangladesh

Since the outbreak, the country has registered 1,059,538 cases, out of whom 17,052 have lost their lives. Despite the protocols in place, infections have continued to climb, with nearly 14,000 people testing positive on July 13 a new daily record  to take the total number of cases to just over one million. The death toll has crossed more than 17,000 but experts say the real figures could be much higher amid fears of underreporting.

Just last week, it was recorded that the number of COVID-19 positive patients in the capital of Bangladesh, Dhaka, recorded a huge spike from three percent to 28 percent since June 2021. In the present scenario, the city hospitals may run out of beds if the rate of COVID-19 positive patients does not come down. Bangladesh has also extended its ongoing "strict" nationwide lockdown till July 14 at midnight in order to control the spread of COVID-19.

ANI reported the statement of Prof MD Morshed, pro-vice-chancellor of Holy Family Red Crescent Medical College from DT, "It was crucial to stop hospitals from becoming overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients." He added, "As of(Tuesday), We had 60% of the COVID-19 unit beds vacant. It might sound like a lot, but I am pretty sure we will run out of beds soon if the infection rate keeps going up at this rate."

Image: AP
Adama Ndiaye arrived early in the morning on Wednesday at Bargny, about 40 km from Dakar, expecting to receive a sheep to celebrate Eid al-Adha next week, one of the most important events in the Muslim world.

The 63-year-old woman lives with four of her nine children in Rufisque, a nearby city, and like many in Senegal, has been facing financial problems over the last year as a consequence of the economic crisis caused by the pandemic.

Selling ice creams does not provide enough money for her to support her family, pay the expenses and buy a sheep - which costs at least 70,000 CAF (about 140 USD) - to celebrate the Tabaski, as the festivity is called in Wolof, the local language.

When she heard the news about an Islamic NGO donating the animals to poor and vulnerable people with no means to buy one, Ndiaye immediately went to try to get one for her family.

"It's very very (difficult) because there is no work, my children are at home and there is no work," she said while waiting in the courtyard of a school where hundreds gathered to receive a sheep.

"The life is very expensive and the situation is very difficult," she said.

She said her family can't have three meals per day, and that they get breakfast and lunch sometimes when they're lucky.

"I have prayed a lot, have prayed and I was not expecting to have a sheep. God knows how I feel (for receiving it). Like me, is the same for the others," she added.

After receiving her sheep, surrounded by dozens of boys offering help to earn some money and men in horse-drawn carts, Ndiaye and a group of women coming from the same neighbourhood took a taxi, put the animal inside and left.

They will wait until Eid al-Adha to slaughter and prepare the sheep and share it with family and friends.

"The pandemic has especially impacted the most vulnerable segments of the population," said Anne Catherine Dupre, coordinator of project for SIF, Secours Islamic France in Senegal.

According to her since last year, 30% of the thousands of people that the NGO support through different projects were forced to reduce their consumption of food due to the crisis caused by the pandemic.

"We are already dealing with populations that are very vulnerable, so in fact, for them to reduce it, means they're only going to eat once a day," she added.

SIF has been working in different projects in Senegal since 2008.

They have distributed food and sheep among people during Ramadan and Tabaski, but this year they had to increase the number of donations due to the high number of people living in a vulnerable situation due to the pandemic.

Dupre said Tabaski is the most significant celebration in the nation of 80% Muslims.

The organization that also distributes food, money and support through education and training to unemployed people, plans to distribute around 2000 sheep in Dakar and the surrounding outskirts ahead of Eid al-Adha.

Meanwhile, Ndiaye and others hope the pandemic finishes so things can go back to normal.

Awa Mboro Ndaye, a 54-year-old resident of Bargny, said her work has reduced due to the pandemic.

She said she would have never been able to buy a sheep.

"They (the NGO) has come to help us with the sheep, thank God."

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Days after Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmeds registered a landslide victory in the recently concluded Parliamentary elections, a powerful rebellion group led by an ethnic faction seized a major town of Ethiopia, a TPLF spokesman told a France based news agency. The declaration made by the rebellion association-- Tigray Peoples Liberation Front (TPLF)-- claimed that they have controlled Korem, a town 170 kilometres south of Mekelle, and were pushing to seize the major area of Alamata.

TPLF demands restoration of prerevolutionary borders

According to TPLF spokesperson Getachew Reda, the group wants its prerevolutionary borders to be restored and transport links to be opened for people and humanitarian aid to move that has been blocked by government forces and their allies. Denying the claims of the rebel group, the authorities said they are rebuilding infrastructure. Meanwhile, Ethiopian military spokesman Colonel Getnet Adane said that their armed forces had declared a ceasefire after its troops pulled out of the Mekelle city. Denying the claims made by the military spokesman, the TPLF has called the ceasefire 'a joke'.

Tigrayans also facing a humanitarian crisis

Meanwhile, the country is also facing the worst ever famine. According to the UN reports, at least 3,50,000 people in Tigray have been facing famine whereas the US Agency for International Development estimated the number could rose to 9,00,000.

In order to provide assistance to the people facing a humanitarian crisis, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) convoy of 50 trucks arrived in the Tigrayan capital of Mekelle on Monday with 900 metric tons of food as well as other emergency supplies. However, double this number of trucks needs to be moving in every day to meet the vast humanitarian needs in the region.

This is what a 50 trucks convoy looks like!



A WFP convoy carrying 900 metric tons of food & other emergency supplies reached #Tigray yesterday.



But 2x as many trucks need to be moving in every day to meet the vast humanitarian needs in the region: https://t.co/AMZhGnBnmW pic.twitter.com/sIJE1RFhP9  World Food Programme (@WFP) July 13, 2021
Guatemalas consulate in Tucson, Arizona, said Wednesday it has identified 456 unaccompanied Guatemalan minors, most between the ages of 7 and 17, who had been found by U.S. Border Patrol officers so far in July.

U.S. officials often ask home-country consulates to identify minors.

The Guatemalan Foreign Relations Ministry said Wednesday that the children were found in several Arizona border communities, including Sasabe, Naco and Nogales.

Each of those communities has a Mexican town of the same name on the other side of the border. Monday and Tuesday were particularly busy, with 80 kids identified.

The minors had entered the United States without proper documents. They were mainly from the heavily indigenous and rural provinces of Huehuetenango, San Marcos and Quiche.

Ursula Roldan, who researches migration at the Rafael Landivar University, said the number seems very high in such a short span of time."

I think it has to do with family reunification, Roldan said. I think the immigrant smugglers are hurrying things up because there has been talk of investigating the smugglers' structures."

Unaccompanied minors who make it into the U.S. are sometimes placed with relatives there. But the Guatemalan government says that so far this year, 2,873 unaccompanied minors have been deported from Mexico and the United States.

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
One week after the brutal assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise at his residence in the middle of the night, the capital city of Port-au-Prince is cautiously returning to normalcy after an almost complete shutdown that lasted several days.

Street markets have reopened along with many businesses, including banks, in this city of almost 1-million people.

Long lines form at gas stations as fuel has been scarce.

Residents say they remain cautious due to the general state of insecurity that the country has been experiencing for many months.

Police have done little to bring law and order to Port-au-Prince as they are outnumbered and outgunned by gang members.

According to the UN office in Haiti, over the past nine months more than 14,000 people have abandoned their homes due to the violence and are now living in shelters.

The brazen killing of the president has increased the population's fear.

Most people dare venture out only in broad daylight.

There is little movement before 9 am and people try to be home by 4 pm as businesses shut down before dark.

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
Leon Charles, head of Haiti's National Police, pleaded with Haitians Wednesday to help officials track down suspects involved in the assassination of President Jovenel Moise, who remain on the run.

Among suspects is an ex-senator described by Charles as a key suspect, accused of supplying the weapons used in the 7 July attack on the president.

During the evening press conference, Haiti's police chief also accused a Venezuelan businessman who owns a security company in Florida of traveling to Haiti numerous times as part of a plot.

Former Sen. John Joel Joseph, a Haitian politician and opponent of the Tet Kale party that Moise belonged to, is one of five fugitives whom police say are armed and dangerous.

Another of the fugitives identified by police is Joseph Felix Badio. Charles said Badio rented a house near Moise's home to help the suspects understand the layout of the area.

Badio previously worked for Haiti's Ministry of Justice and joined the government's anti-corruption unit in March 2013.

Charles, the police chief, said four high-ranking officials who were in charge of the president's security detail are being held in isolation as authorities continue to track down other fugitives, including Rodolphe Jaar.

Jaar, who once used the alias "Whiskey," was indicted in 2013 in federal court in South Florida on charges of conspiring to smuggle cocaine from Colombia and Venezuela through Haiti to the U.S.

He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to nearly four years in prison, according to court records.

Authorities in Haiti are investigating Moise's killing with help from Colombia's government, which has said at least 18 former Colombian soldiers suspected in the slaying have been arrested and remain detained in Haiti.

Charles said three Haitians were also arrested and at least three suspects killed, adding that they continue to investigate those detained to identify the masterminds behind the slaying.

IMAGE: AP

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
India's battle for Mehul Choksi's extradition suffered a setback after the fugitive diamantaire landed in Antigua and Barbuda on Wednesday after spending 51 days in custody in Dominica. Arriving in the island nation on a private plane, he was received at the airport by the representatives of Antigua and Barbuda's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. On July 12, Justice Bernie Stephenson of the Dominica High Court granted him bail based on the medical reports submitted in the court. While seeking bail, the PNB scam accused had attached his medical reports including the CT scan which showed "mildly worsening hematoma".

The CT scan report dated June 29 stated, "The services are not currently available on the island (Dominica). All courtesies extended to him would be greatly appreciated". As per the HC order accessed by Republic TV, Choksi was permitted to travel to Antigua and Barbuda for consulting neurologist Dr. Gaden Osbourne and has to inform the court of any change of doctor.

Moreover, the court directed him to notify the Registrar General of a change in his address in Antigua and Barbuda and his return to Dominica. Until a doctor certifies the fugitive that he is fit to stand for trial, all proceedings in the illegal entry case pending before the Magistrate's Court will remain adjourned. Choksi deposited $10,000 XCD with the HC Registrar to secure his release on bail.

Here are Mehul Choksi's pictures on arrival in Antigua and Barbuda:

The Mehul Choksi case

Along with his nephew Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi has been accused of allegedly siphoning off Rs 13,500 crore of public money from PNB using letters of undertaking. He secured the citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda in November 2017 under the aegis of the Citizenship by Investment Programme and fled to the island nation in the first week of January 2018. While India formally sought Choksi's extradition in August 2018, Browne commenced the process of revoking his citizenship on October 14, 2019.

The Mehul Choksi citizenship issue gained traction again after he was reported "missing" on May 23 after going out for dinner. Four days later, the Dominican government issued an official statement confirming that the fugitive had been detained for illegal entry into the country. Thereafter, the Antigua and Barbuda PM refused to accept him back and held that the PNB scam accused can be repatriated to India on being declared persona non grata by Dominica.

Intensifying efforts to bring Choksi to book, a Bombardier Global 5000 business jet of Qatar Executive Airlines had arrived in the country with officials from the CBI and the ED on May 28. They brought with them a set of documents that sought to prove the fugitive status of the PNB scam accused before the Dominica HC. However, the special charter plane reportedly departed at 8.10 pm on June 3 after the hearing in the case was adjourned for several weeks.

(With PTI inputs)
In the wake of turmoil in war-torn Afghanistan, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) urged the Afghan government and Taliban to announce a temporary ceasefire during the upcoming festival of Eid. The UNAMA has compelled the two sides to halt violence given the concerns over a number of alleged human rights violations committed amid the ongoing shift of power and military offensive in the volatile country.

"All parties are urged to announce an Eid ceasefire that can give Afghans a respite from the conflict and that may contribute to sustained and meaningful peace negotiations," UNAMA press release read.

"Those carrying out killing, ill-treatment, discrimination must be held accountable": UN

In a bid to give some respite to the people of Afghan and contribute to sustained and meaningful peace negotiations, UNAMA has acknowledged the reports of killing, ill-treatment, and discrimination and established that the one carrying out such deeds ought to be held accountable.

UNAMA said in an official statement, "The United Nations in Afghanistan is increasingly concerned with the number of reported serious human rights abuses and violations alleged in communities most affected by the ongoing military offensive across the country. The reports of killing, ill-treatment, persecution, and discrimination are widespread and disturbing, creating fear and insecurity. Those who carry out any such acts must be held accountable.

The UNAMA also reiterated that parties are obliged to the human rights and dignity of all Afghans, "especially those of women and girls who have in the past been subjected to particularly acute forms of discrimination".

In a confirming statement, the UN stated, "The best way to end harm to civilians is for peace talks to be re-invigorated in order for a negotiated settlement to be reached."

Violence in Afghanistan as US & NATO troops withdraw

It is pertinent to note that Afghanistan is witnessing a massive surge in Taliban-infused violence while insurgents have launched multiple attacks to gain hold of provinces. Afghan national army commandos have been sent to counter Taliban resurgence in respective territories. The shift of power or the ongoing power crisis in Afghanistan is especially volatile saving the shift of reigns as US forces prepare to exit. The deadline given to the President Biden administration is September 11 marking the anniversary of the World Trade Centre attacks by the Wahhabi Islamist terrorist group Al-Qaeda.

Pursuant to this the UN along with multiple other international organisations has vocalised the dire need to prioritise negotiating peace and committing to measures that strengthen the country's zeal in attaining an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled national peace and reconciliation process. This holds significant relevance during the period when the United States and NATO troops have pledged to withdraw to pull out US and NATO troops ending Washington's 18-year long war with the Taliban.

"Those genuinely interested in the future of Afghanistan and its people, should prioritize negotiating peace and committing to measures, including safeguarding the countrys infrastructure, that will show a real concern for the welfare of all Afghans," the statement added.

Meanwhile, the Taliban have captured one of the main border crossings with Pakistan, southern Kandahar province. The crossing is one of Afghanistan's busiest entry points and the main link between its southwest region and Pakistani ports. Reports suggest that the group had taken down the Afghan flag from the top of the border crossing gate between the Afghan town of Wesh and the Pakistani town of Chaman.

(With ANI inputs)
The United States government is all set to evacuate translators from Afghanistan who are at high risk. According to a BBC report, the withdrawal process of Afghan interpreters who assisted US-led forces during the conflict will start in the last week of July.

US withdrawal from Afghanistan

The decision of the US government has been taken in light of the actively increasing Taliban presence in Afghanistan. Addressing a media briefing, White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said, "These are courageous individuals. We want to make sure we recognise and value the role they've played over the last several years."

The decision has been taken ahead of the US President's deadline of forces completely being evacuated from Afghanistan till September 11.

According to the US officials, the evacuation should include around 2,500 people which might increase later on. While their visa application will be in process, the individuals will be staying at military facilities in the United States or any third country. On the other hand, the Special Immigrant Visa program will be offered to those who worked with the US government or the US forces during the Afghanistan war.

Taliban control in Afghanistan

On July 9, the Taliban announced that it now controls 85 per cent of Afghanistan's territory. The revelation was made by Shahabuddin Delawar, a key negotiator for the fundamentalist group, who, speaking to media reporters in Moscow, boasted that the controlled area now encompasses 250 out of 398 districts. With US and NATO troops almost out of the Central Asian country, the Taliban is inching closer to re-establish the Islamic Emirate in Afghanistan.

According to a report by BBC, the militants have successfully captured over two-thirds of the country including five districts in Herat. Meanwhile, a top Russian official disclosed that militants have captured 2/3rd of the territory on the Afghan-Tajik border. "The United States was forced to leave our territory," said Delawar, denying the Afghan peace pact in 2020. He said that there was no agreement with the United States for the Taliban not to attack administrative centres, though he said that it will not take them "by force".

Withdrawal of US military from Afghanistan

The US military which has been fighting in Afghanistan for almost two decades has now decided to not waste another year fighting in the country. As a result, the government has now taken the decision to withdraw its troops from Afghanistan.

According to an announcement made by US President Joe Biden, Americas military force will be completely withdrawn from Afghanistan. According to Biden's announcement made earlier this year, the withdrawal process began in May and will be completed by September 11, the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

Earlier, former United States President George Washington Bush criticized the decision of pulling out American troops from Afghanistan. He said that the decision will be affecting the civilians to a great extent, especially the women and the girls who will be left to be slaughtered by the Taliban.
Amidst an emerging 'cold war', former US Vice President Mike Pence has called on President Joe Biden to take more steps to maintain the pressure on the country's geopolitical adversary China. Speaking at the event, Pence called on the incumbent administration to build on the pressure that the previous Republican administration created adding that only a confident America could tackle the challenge of China. In his speech, the top Republican also highlighted other issues that need to be targeted aggressively including the coronavirus origin probe, treatment of Uighurs inter alia.

"Our elected leaders must build on the progress of the Trump-Pence administration, and use the economic and military power of the United States to check the ambitions of the Chinese Communist Party in ways that put the American people and American values first," Pence said adding "Only a proud, confident and united America can meet the challenge of China."

Burning issues

Pence also took the opportunity to buttress the stance of GOP leader Rick Scott who called for the 2022 Winter Olympics to be moved out of China due to its inhumane treatment and genocide of Uyghurs. Furthermore, he lambasted Beijings lack of transparency around the origins of the coronavirus pandemic and argued evidence "strongly suggests the coronavirus leaked out of a Chinese lab." It is imperative to note that while the Trump-Pence administration blatantly showed their support for the lab leak theory, WHO experts dismissed the possibility of the virus being artificially developed.

Pence also asked the Biden administration to segregate US economic interests with Chinese industries, emphasizing that a failure to do so could lead to increased US dependence on Chinese goods. Emphasizing the need to develop a strong Navy, the former leader stated that it was needed to tackle the Chinese threat in the Indo-Pacific. He also called for greater trade relations with Taiwan, an island that China claims under its One China policy. It is worth noting that both Trump and Biden have shown strong support for their Asian allies-Japan and Taiwan- even as Beijing continues to make military advances in the South China Sea.

Image: AP
The United States government is all set to evacuate translators from Afghanistan who are at high risk. The withdrawal process of Afghan interpreters who assisted US-led forces during the conflict will start in the last week of July. The Biden administration on July 14 confirmed that it is prepared to begin evacuation flights for Afghan interpreters and translators who aided the US military effort in the nearly 20-year war in Afghanistan.

Evacuation flights for Afghans

The decision of the US government has been taken in light of the actively increasing Taliban presence in Afghanistan. Addressing a media briefing, White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said that the US will launch Operation Allies Refuge to support relocation flights for interested and eligible Afghan nationals and their families who have supported the United States. The flights for SIV applicants who are already in the pipeline will begin in the last week of July.

In the press briefing, Jen Psaki declined to detail how many Afghans are expected to be among those evacuated in the flights, citing security and operational concerns. She added that their objective is to get individuals who are eligible relocated out of the country ahead of the US President's deadline of US troops complete withdrawal from Afghanistan till September 11. The confirmation on the evacuation flights came as President Joe Biden met General Austin Scott Miller on Wednesday who earlier this week stepped down as the top US commander in Afghanistan, according to AP.

"In terms of the specific numbers, Im not going to be able to provide those to you for operational and security reasons, but I can confirm that flights out of Afghanistan for SIV applicants who are already in the pipeline will begin in the last week of July and will continue. And our objective is to get individuals who are eligible relocated out of the country in advance of the removal  of the withdrawal of troops at the end of August", Psaki said in a press briefing.

Psaki said that the US President wanted to thank Miller for conducting an "orderly and safe" drawdown of US troops. Since relinquishing command, Miller became Americas last four-star general on the ground in Afghanistan in a ceremony in Kabul that will be organised ahead of the formal end of US military presence in Afghanistan after 20 years on August 31. Miller expressed concern in his final days as commander about the rapid loss of districts around the country to the Taliban. It is worth mentioning that the US troops departure began after Biden announced a full withdrawal of the US troops from Afghanistan by September 11, which would end Americas forces' involvement in Afghanistan.

IMAGE: AP

Inputs from AP




The United Nations observes the World Youth Skills Day on July 15th of every year. This day is of special importance as it celebrates skills for entrepreneurship, employment, self-sufficiency among young people across the world. The UN also acknowledges and commemorates the path-breaking work of the youth in their respective fields and encourages and equips others with technical and vocational training to reach their goals.

The day came into existence in July 2014. Since then, the UN has provided "a unique opportunity for dialogue between young people, technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions, firms, employers and workers organizations, policymakers and development partners." This year the World Youth Day is taking place during the unprecedented circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has made sure to arrange online regional forums to highlight project results and impact, based on the implementation of technical and vocational education and training (TVET).

The strategic importance of World Youth Skills Day:

On Thursday's World Youth Skills Day, join @UNESCO in celebrating the importance of youth skills development & recognizing the key role of young people in building a more sustainable future. https://t.co/H2ybfPaTkr pic.twitter.com/b6IIhnOGIj  United Nations (@UN) July 14, 2021

In 2014, the United Nations General Assembly declared 15 July as World Youth Skills Day, to celebrate the strategic importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship, the UN agency wrote in the current year's 'Reimagining Youth Skills Post-Pandemic' press release. This year the UNESCO and the UN are set to celebrate the resilience and creativity of youth in the wake of the pandemic. The theme this year is 'Reimagining Youth Skills Post-Pandemic.'

The theme: 'Reimagining Youth Skills Post-Pandemic'

The pandemic has left a huge impact on the TVET process of youth empowerment and education. "World Youth Skills Day 2021 will take place in a challenging context, with the continuation of the COVID-19 pandemic resulting in the widespread disruption of the TVET sector," UN informed. However, the agency has hoped that "vaccination rollouts" would provide quick recovery to the setback. Nevertheless, the UN has also acknowledged that "TVET still has a long road to recovery, especially in those countries which continue to be overwhelmed by the spread of the disease." Moreover, youth skills development is also expected to face a range of unfamiliar problems emerging from a crisis where training has been disrupted in an unprecedented manner on a virtually universal scale.

According to the UN directives, a virtual event will be organized by the Permanent Missions of Sri Lanka and Portugal to the UN, the Office of the Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth, UNESCO, and ILO will offer an opportunity to reflect on skills that are needed today and for the future. Next, the participants will take stock of how the TVET sector has adapted to the pandemic and recession, think of how TVET institutions can participate in the recovery, and imagine priorities they should adopt for the post-COVID-19 world. The forum will also mark World Youth Skills Day, and include representatives and direct beneficiaries from the participating countries; relevant TVET stakeholders and partners; regional and international TVET experts, and youth representatives and organizations, the UN directives concluded.

(Input: UN/UNESCO/Twitter)
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The authorities also move ahead with the prosecution of detained activist and writer Chen Yunfei.

Authorities in the southwestern province of Sichuan have formally arrested a prominent rights activist on suspicion of "picking quarrels and stirring up trouble," a charge often used to target peaceful critics of the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP), RFA has learned.

Xie Junfeng was detained last month after allegedly leaving his place of residence in violation of bail restrictions, his ex-wife Zou Haixia told RFA.

Police had recently told her the case against him was also based on comments he had made online, however.

"The police hinted when they called [before] that the 'picking quarrels, stirring up trouble' charge wasn't just based on his daily activities, but also on some of the comments he made online," Zou told RFA on Thursday.

"According to my understanding, the authorities have been questioning a lot of petitioners since Xie Junbiao was detained, trying to find out stuff about him," she said.

Xie, who has campaigned for the rights of the most vulnerable in society, as well as being a vocal public supporter of jailed Sichuan dissident Huang Qi, is currently being held in the police-run Shuangliu District Detention Center in Sichuan's provincial capital, Chengdu.

His frequent interviews with foreign media organizations, including RFA, have also made him a thorn in the authorities' side, observers have said.

The authorities approved his formal arrest on July 14, and sent a formal notification to his father's home, Zou said.

"They warned me before that they were keeping track [of everything Zou did] and that the bill would be presented when the time came," she said. "They also warned me that I could be charged with the same crime for my comments online."

Second dissident prosecuted

Meanwhile, authorities in Chengdu's Pidu district have moved ahead with the prosecution of veteran dissident Chen Yunfei, who was detained by police four months ago on the same charge as Xie.

Chen is currently being held at the Pidu District Detention Center, awaiting trial for "picking quarrels and stirring up trouble" after he wrote an online article based on visits to Sichuan schools during the past two years.

He was detained on March 25, 2021, and formally arrested on April 30, 2021.

Chen has already served a four-year jail term on the same charge beginning in March 2015, after he organized and took part in a memorial service calling for justice for the victims of the 1989 Tiananmen massacre during the grave-sweeping festival of Qing Ming.

He was held incommunicado with no access to family or lawyers for six months, according to the overseas-based Chinese Human Rights Defenders (CHRD) network.

He complained to his lawyer in January 2017 of having been held in restraints on two separate occasions for "refusing to properly greet officers at the detention center," the group said on its website.

Chen's close friend Zeng Rongkang said the allegations relating to Chen's research about schools in the province were simply a pretext to justify a political prosecution.

"This is all just for show, because [his actions] in no way constitute provocation in law, and no harm has come to the country," Zeng said. "This charge is being used up and down the country for pinning on people."

"I expect he will be sentenced again, but maybe not very harshly," he said.



Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
Local committees will be able to hand out administrative punishments and 'enforce the law' among residents of their communities.

China will empower local officials at township, village, and neighborhood level to enforce the law under an amended administrative punishment law that took effect on Thursday, as well as operating a vastly extended "grid management" system of social control in rural and urban areas alike.

"[Officials at] township, village and neighborhood [level] shall be given administrative law enforcement powers ... while existing law enforcement powers and resources shall be integrated," according to a high-level opinion document dating from April, but not published by state news agency Xinhua until July 11.

Government will be based on a "grid" system of management, a system of social control that harks back to imperial times, and which will allow the authorities even closer control over citizens' lives, the opinion document issued jointly by the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) central committee and the country's State Council said.

According to directives sent out in 2018, the grid system carves up neighborhoods into a grid pattern with 15-20 households per square, with each grid given a dedicated monitor who reports back on residents' affairs to local committees.

Neighborhood committees in China have long been tasked with monitoring the activities of ordinary people in urban areas, but the grid management system turbo-charges the capacity of officials even in rural areas to monitor what local people are doing, saying, and thinking.

According to a recruitment advertisement posted online in 2018, the task of a grid monitor for a neighborhood committee is to fully understand the residents of their grid, including exactly who lives where, which organizations they belong to, and the sort of lives they lead.

They will be asked to mediate in family conflicts and other disputes and to carry out "psychological intervention" when required, as well as to report back on "hidden dangers" in their grid, as well as all the aspects of residents' lives, political opinions, and complaints, the advertisement said.

That system is now being "modernized," with full data sharing between organizations and widespread automation the goal, the July 11 opinion document said.

Local committees are now being required to "build a simple and efficient township, village, or neighborhood management system under the leadership of the party committee, it said.

Officials should seek to improve mass communications with local residents, and conduct regular household visits in villages, towns, and neighborhoods.

They are also called on to "strengthen ideological and moral construction" among residents.

"[Local committees] should select moral role models and carry out award ceremonies, and focus on the important role of family tutors," it said.

Family indoctrination

CCP leader Xi Jinping has called for the family to be the first port of call when setting up ideological education for young people in China, and the key mode of transmission for party ideology.

The approach has already been rolled out among Uyghur Muslims and other ethnic groups in Xinjiang, where officials have moved in with Uyghur families to monitor them more closely and to better impose CCP ideology on people.

Since early 2018, Chinese officials have imposed regular home stays on families in the predominantly Muslim region of Xinjiang, the New York-based group Human Rights Watch (HRW) said in a report on its website.

"During these visits, families are required to provide officials with information about their lives and political views, and are subjected to political indoctrination," the group said.

It said the program violated people's rights to privacy and a family life.

Now, local governments across China are being asked to "cultivate and practice the core values of socialism, and promote Xi Jinpings new era of socialism with Chinese characteristics into communities, rural areas, and families," according to the July 11 opinion document.

They must also use smart technology to govern at local level, and "improve policy propaganda, public communications, and the convenient and efficient provision of services," it said.

Zhang Kunlun, a scholar from Taiyuan, provincial capital of Shanxi, said the opinion is basically a set of instructions about how to implement an updated Administrative Punishments Law, which takes effect on July 15.

"This decentralization is the kind of decentralization that will trample on human rights and the rule of law, to put it bluntly," Zhang said.

"[Local officials] are being given free rein, so as to consolidate the CCP's grip on power."

Major turmoil seen

Yang Haiying, a professor at Japan's Shizuoka University, said the transfer of law enforcement powers to township, village, and neighborhood level could be problematic.

"Township governments lack the qualifications and aptitude for law enforcement, because to enforce the law, you also have to understand it," Yang said. "They are giving those on the front line more responsible."

"If it isn't well handled, it could cause major turmoil."

For example, the new rules mean that local officials could mete out administrative punishments to anyone complaining about how government actions have affected them.

"They can use this policy to implement controls on religious activity, to detain petitioners, as well as against ethnic minorities in Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia," Yang said.

He said the move is unprecedented.

"Law enforcement powers have never been delegated to this extent in the whole of Chinese history," Yang said. "Back in the Qing dynasty, [official seats of government] only existed in county towns, and only the county-level officials had this power."

Activists have told RFA that the extension of the grid management system represents an expansion of the existing "stability maintenance" system from one that only targets government critics, dissidents, rights lawyers, and activists, to include everyone as a potential threat to the regime.

The expansion of the grid system was launched as Xi Jinping changed the constitution to enable him to start an unlimited second term in office.



Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
Journalists are left unsure of exactly which words will likely get them arrested under the draconian law, an industry association says.

Ronson Chan (L), chairperson of the Hong Kong Journalists Association, and Chris Yeung, chief editor, pose during a press conference to release the group's annual report, July 15, 2021.

Hong Kong's press freedom is 'in tatters', following the forced closure of the Apple Daily and the arrests of columnists under the national security law, the city's journalists' association said on Thursday.

Press freedom in the city has been increasingly affected by political "red lines" laid down after the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) imposed its national security law on the city from July 1, 2020, the Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA} said in an annual report.

It listed the arrest of pro-democracy media mogul Jimmy Lai on charges of "colluding with foreign powers," a forthcoming law banning "fake news," government control over content broadcast by RTHK, and the arrest of a journalist for searching a public database for car license plates for a documentary.

It also cited the forced closure of the Apple Daily after its bank accounts were frozen and the arrests of its columnists and top executives on the same charges as Lai.

"HKJA is [concerned] ... about the erosion of freedom and the damage done to the diversified media scene," the group said in a statement on its website launching the report.

"The roundup of media professionals is also damaging for the citys international reputation, especially when Hong Kong takes pride in its free flow of information and free exchange of ideas," it said.

The group called on China's National People's Congress (NPC) to review the implementation of the national security law and amend it to ensure press freedom.

It also called on the administration of Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam to shelve planned legislation banning "fake news" and misinformation, and for police to stop defining who is a journalist for the purposes of reporting major public events.

"The Government should [also] stop putting pressure on RTHK and respect its editorial autonomy," the HKJA said.

Definitions, guidelines unclear

HKJA chairman Ronson Chan said it's hard for journalists to figure out how to stay out of trouble, given the vagueness of definitions in the national security law, and considerable official flexibility in interpreting them.

"We really want to know which issues are going to be seen as crossing these red lines when we are doing our reporting, writing commentaries, or discussing something," Chan said.

"Is this going to happen if we discuss anything to do with sanctions or independence?"

"We heard the [government] say that these crimes are on a par with murder or arson, and yet they can't tell us clearly where the red lines are," he said. "This is something that causes great concern among journalists and citizens alike."

Chan said new legislation in the pipeline banning "fake news" is another cause for concern.

Hong Kong police chief Raymond Siu called on June 26 for a law banning "fake news," echoing earlier comments from Lam.

Former HKJA chairman Chris Yeung said press freedom in Hong Kong has been "destroyed by totalitarianism," in a process dating back to the cross-border arrests of five Hong Kong booksellers in 2015.

"They managed to end a media outlet right there, before any trials had even begun," Yeung said. "It's quite clear that the national security law is being used destructively to undermine press freedom."

The HKJA's Hong Kong Press Freedom Index 2020 was at a record low, the group said.

"The main reason for the drop is that journalists are more cautious than ever when they criticize the [Hong Kong] government and the central government, and managed has put more pressure on them," the report said.

Three crucial indicators, including the adequacy of legal safeguards for journalists' free access to information, the ability of the media to play the role of watchdog, and the diversity of viewpoints in the city's media, all fell sharply, the HKJA said.



Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
UNESCO's World Heritage Committee will meet from July 16-31 to assess the dam's potential impact on the Luang Prabang City World Heritage Site.

A Luang Prabang City street lined with French colonial-style buildings is shown in a photo taken in 2020.

A group of Thai and international organizations are urging the Thai government not to buy electric power from a major dam Laos is building on the Mekong River, saying that the dams operation will threaten the ancient Lao city of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The call comes ahead of a July 16-31 UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting scheduled to consider the impact of the 1,460 megawatt, U.S. $3 billion Luang Prabang Dam on protected areas.

The project will displace 581 families or 2,285 people and will affect 20 other villages in the northern Lao provinces of Luang Prabang and Oudomxay.

In a July 12 letter signed by six organizations and ten individuals, the group noted that work on the dam has already begun, reminding both the Thai government and the dams Thai-owned developer, the Ch. Karnchang Company, that a required heritage impact assessment (HIA) has not yet been completed.

UNESCO has called the town of Luang Prabang an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures with those built by the European colonial authorities in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Luang Prabang celebrated its 25th anniversary as a World Heritage Site last year.

Speaking to RFA on July 12, a representative of one of the letter's signing groups pointed to the threats posed to the resources, culture, and livelihoods of the people of Luang Prabang town by construction of the dam, which is scheduled for completion in 2027.

These resources have already been impacted by other development, and if the Luang Prabang Dam is built, this will impact these resources even further, the representative said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

In March, Luang Prabang residents told RFAs Lao Service they were worried because the government had already begun construction on the project before its international approval process was complete.

Many expressed safety fears, saying the dam was too close to the city of 55,000 people.

At that time, three temporary ports had been completed, and service roads, a workers camp with water supply, and land clearance were about 99 percent complete. A Mekong river bridge, power lines and relay stations were in various stages of completion.

In July 2020, RFA reported after prior consultation on the Luang Prabang Dam had been completed in June, downriver Mekong nations Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand urged the developer to review the design of the dam to minimize the environmental, social, and trans-boundary impacts.

The site of the planned Luang Prabang Dam is shown in a July 12, 2021 satellite photo showing substantial construction work to build access roads and a sprawling work camp about 12 miles north of the World Heritage Site. Photo: Planet Labs Inc.





'All reports complete'

Daovong Phonekeo, the Lao governments Minister of Energy and Mines, declined to comment on the letter, saying he had received no information about it, but an official of the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourisms World Heritage Department said that Laos has already completed all required impact reports.

Now, UNESCO is demanding a new world heritage impact assessment, he said.

Weve actually done an assessment that concluded the dam will have no impact on the [Luang Prabang City] world heritage site, either during the wet or the dry season. But UNESCO would not accept that assessment, he said.

Attempts by RFA to reach Thai authorities received no reply.

The protection of Luang Prabang City will be a major focus of the meetings beginning this week of UNESCOs World Heritage Committee, where the Committee will take decisions to ensure the preservation and safeguarding of the Outstanding Universal Value of [this] World Heritage property, Roni Amelan of the UNESCO Press Service told RFA by email on July 15.

The property has been subject to a number of World Heritage Committee decisions on its state of conservation since 1996, Amelan said.

The Luang Prabang Dam when completed will be part of a cascade of 11 Mekong mainstream dams that form the centerpiece of Laos controversial economic strategy to become the Battery of Southeast Asia by selling electric power to neighboring countries.

Though the Lao government sees power generation as a way to boost the countrys economy, the projects are controversial because of their environmental impact, displacement of villagers without adequate compensation, and questionable financial and power demand arrangements.

The 7th-century city, which served as royal capital and seat of government of the Kingdom of Laos from the country's independence from France in 1953 until the communist takeover in 1975, has been a major center of tourism, a sector which brought in US$900 million a year before the 2020 pandemic shutdown.

Reported by RFAs Lao Service. Translated by Max Avary. Written in English by Richard Finney.
ASEAN has been widely criticized for not appointing a special envoy amid reports of dissension within the blocs ranks.

Women in Yangon, Myanmar, carry torches as they protest the Feb. 1 military coup that overthrew the democratic government led by Aung San Suu Kyi, July 14, 2021.

The United States added its voice Wednesday to international calls pressing ASEAN to appoint a special envoy to Myanmar, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken saying the regional bloc had to act urgently to resolve a post-coup crisis there.

Blinkens call and a similar one made by the U.N. human rights chief last week came amid a nearly three-month delay in the Southeast Asian blocs appointment of an emissary, indicating that ASEANs role in resolving the crisis has been rendered ineffective, one analyst told BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service.

During Blinkens first meeting with his counterparts from the 10 member-states in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the secretary called on ASEAN to take joint action to urge the end of violence, the restoration of Burmas democratic transition and the release of all those unjustly detained, State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement.

The secretary said that ASEANs five-point consensus is an important step forward and urged ASEAN to take immediate action to hold the Burmese regime accountable to the consensus and to appoint a special envoy.

Blinken also stated that the United States stands with Southeast Asian claimants in the face of Chinas coercion and unlawful maritime claims in the South China Sea.

At a special summit in Jakarta on April 24, ASEANs members adopted a five-point consensus on Myanmar, which included calling for the appointment of a special envoy to Myanmar and an immediate end to violence.

Among statements or transcripts of speeches issued Wednesday by the foreign offices of ASEAN members the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, only the one from the Philippines directly stated Manilas support for appointing a special envoy to Myanmar. However, it did not urge more swift action on the appointment.

For his part, Malaysian Foreign Minister Hishammuddin Hussein told the meeting: Malaysia remains gravely concerned over the situation that has been unfolding over the recent months.

Malaysia reiterates our call for de-escalation of the situation in Myanmar as a matter of priority. We urge all parties to contribute to a conducive environment for national dialogue and reconciliation to take place, he said.

ASEAN has been widely criticized for not appointing a special envoy amid reports of dissension within the blocs ranks, even as nearly 900 people have been killed during anti-junta protests by Burmese security forces since the military toppled Aung San Suu Kyis elected government in a coup on Feb. 1.

Blinkens comments were a strong message not only to ASEAN but to Myanmar as well, because the junta-appointed foreign minister was present at Wednesdays video-meeting, said Hunter Marston, a researcher on Southeast Asia at the Australian National University.

Blinkens comments regarding Myanmar are significant because the junta-appointed Foreign Minister Wunna Maung Lwin was also present at the meeting, Marston told BenarNews.

So the statement was a direct U.S. message to the junta and ASEAN counterparts that the U.S. supports stronger ASEAN action to restore Myanmar democracy.

ASEANs failure to fully implement the consensus shows the members were wavering in their commitment to democracy in Myanmar, said Dinna Prapto Raharja, an international relations analyst at Synergy Policies, a Jakarta think-tank.

In my opinion, ASEAN has lost the momentum on appointing a special envoy. That ship has passed, Dinna told BenarNews.

ASEANs democratic-authoritarian split

ASEANs failure to appoint an envoy was likely caused by an internal split over which countrys nominee would get the post, Marston said.

In my view, the holdup reflects divisions between ASEANs democratic bloc  Indonesia, the Philippines, and Singapore  and more authoritarian, military-ruled countries, namely Thailand, he said.

Marston was referring to how Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha, a former army chief who engineered his own coup in 2014, is said to be close to the Myanmar military.

Marston said the two main contenders for the envoy role were Hassan Wirajuda, a former Indonesian foreign minister and Virasakdi Futrakul, a former Thai deputy foreign minister. A former Malaysian human rights commission chief, Razali Ismail, is being considered as an alternative.

The first two essentially mirror that democratic-authoritarian split, so indecision apparently revolves around whether to adopt kid gloves in dealing with the Myanmar military junta or taking a more ambitious, values-based approach in the form of Indonesias candidate for the job, Marston said.

Syed Hamid Albar, chairman of the Malaysian Advisory Group on Myanmar and a former foreign minister, believes Indonesias Wirajuda should be ASEAN envoy to Myanmar.

When Myanmar was transitioning to democracy [previously] it was trying to emulate the earlier Indonesian democratic model, and Hassan was involved in a number of workshops and seminars for democracy in Myanmar, Hamid told BenarNews.

He has access and is a very good diplomat and negotiator.

Dinna of Synergy Policies said Indonesia should, of its own accord, take on a more prominent role on the Myanmar crisis resolution because it is a founding member of ASEAN and the regions largest country.

Basically, ASEAN can no longer be relied on in the case of Myanmar. Indonesia should take a bolder role because the other ASEAN countries will definitely not take that position, hence the impasse, she said.

South China Sea

Meanwhile, the Philippines welcomed Blinkens rejection of Chinas expansive maritime claims in the contested South China Sea.

Philippine Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said he welcomed U.S. support for the 2016 verdict by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague that ruled in favor of the Philippines and against Chinas vast claims to the waterway.

It is binding international law and the most authoritative application of UNCLOS on the maritime entitlements of features in the South China Sea, he said, referring to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

As such, it contributes to the rules-based order in ASEAN and benefits all the countries that use the vital artery that is the South China Sea. The rest is bluster.

Beijing claims almost all of the South China Sea, while the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam  ASEAN members  and Taiwan have their own territorial claims.

Indonesia does not regard itself as a party to territorial disputes over the South China Sea, but Beijing claims historic rights to parts of the maritime region that overlap Indonesias exclusive economic zone.

Reported by BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service.
Kyee Myint says multiple protocols were ignored during the arrest of Aung San Suu Kyi in February.

Engineers hold posters with an image of deposed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi as they take part in an anti-coup protest march in Mandalay, Feb. 15, 2021.

Myanmars junta broke the law in arresting Aung San Suu Kyi on the day it orchestrated a coup detat, and its leadership should face trial for this, according to one of the countrys most prominent lawyers, who urged authorities to drop charges against the former State Counselor and set her free.

Aung San Suu Kyi, ousted and arrested with other top political leaders during the coup by the Myanmar military on Feb. 1, faces seven charges, including sedition, which her lawyers say are trumped-up offenses to discredit her. Ex-president Win Myint also has been charged with sedition.

Military forces overthrew Aung San Suu Kyis elected government based on accusations that November 2020 landslide elections won by Aung San Suu Kyis National League for Democracy (NLD) were marred by voter fraud. The junta, which has not produced evidence of fraudulent elections, has led a violent crackdown on protesters opposed to its rule.

The junta has charged Aung San Suu Kyi with seven criminal offenses for allegedly violating the colonial-era Official Secrets Act and for corruption, sedition, violation of the Telecommunications Law, possession of unlicensed walkie-talkie radios, and two violations of protocols set up to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Four counts of alleged corruption were added to the list during a court hearing Monday, although prosecutors have yet to release details of the charges.

Speaking to RFAs Myanmar Service, veteran High Court lawyer Kyee Myint said the coup leaders had acted in violation of the law and that Aung San Suu Kyi should lead their prosecution.

If you look at the Code of Criminal Procedure and the Citizens' Freedom Law, youll find that Daw Suu cannot be prosecuted, he said.

Actually, you could prosecute [the junta]. They entered [her home] without [the requisite] two witnesses and made an unlawful arrest of citizens. The detainees were held for more than 24 hours in violation of the Citizens Rights Act. They didnt have any search warrants or arrest warrants or even a search form.

Kyee Myint noted that the Citizens Rights Act was still in effect when Aung San Suu Kyi and Win Myint were arrested.

Under the existing laws at that time, [the junta troops] were the violators, while Daw Suu was unlawfully arrested and prosecuted, he said, using an honorific reference to the 76-year-old leader. [She and other detained NLD leaders] must be released according to the law.

During Aung San Suu Kyis trial proceedings on Monday, a court in the capitol Naypyidaw heard testimonies from the prosecutions witnesses related to three of the charges against her. Her lawyer, Min Min Soe, said the three witnesses from the Naypyidaw Military Command Division testified that the search they conducted on the Nobel Peace Laureates home on Feb. 1 related to the Telecommunication Law violation took place without warrants.

Min Min Soe, a lawyer representing deposed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi, meets with journalists in Naypyidaw, June 29, 2021. AP Photo A judiciary that oppresses its citizens

Nang Lin, a leader of the Old Takatha Students Association, noted that the military has tried to control the countrys judiciary under previous governments by arresting people and convicting them without bothering to find out whether they were really guilty or not, but said the legal system is now crumbling under junta leadership.

There have been so many cases filed by the military like this since the Feb. 1 coup, he said.

The judiciary in Myanmar is not acting in accordance with the law or the proper reasoning of judges, but instead is under total command of the military and is falling apart. It is a judiciary that oppresses its citizens.

Khin Maw, a former medical student arrested during the 1975 Shwedagon Students Movement that called for the release of political detainees and an end to soaring commodity prices, said he was told by the then-ruling junta at the time that he was being charged with theft and asked if he would agree to the charges. When he refused, a court sentenced him to five years in prison.

We have no right to defend ourselves [under the military], he said.

We dont believe now that the truth will come out in the case of Aung San Suu Kyi, so no matter which lawyers are assigned to defend her, the decision will already have been made by higher-level authorities.

Aung San Suu Kyi has been kept under house arrest in the capital Naypyidaw since the Feb. 1 coup. Her hearings initially were held via videoconference beginning on Feb. 16.

The military regime converted a building in Naypyidaw into a special closed court for Aung Sun Suu Kyis hearings now held in person every Monday and Tuesday since June 14.

Reported by RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Khin Maung Nyane. Written in English by Joshua Lipes.
The decision will frighten foreign investment and hand the keys to a firm with no regard for human rights.

Customers line up outside a showroom to buy SIM card at Telenor, in Yangon, in a file photo.

The decision by a Norwegian telecommunications firm to pull out of Myanmar following the juntas Feb. 1 coup detat will deal a blow to the countrys already struggling economy and grant the military significantly more control over the privacy of its citizens, according to experts.

On July 8, Norways Telenor Telecommunications Co. announced that it plans to sell all of its existing services in Myanmar to Lebanese firm M1 Group. Telenor chief executive Sigve Brekke said in a statement that the company decided to leave the country after nearly a decade of doing business there because of growing challenges in terms of compliance with rules and regulations.

The move comes some five months after the military overthrew Myanmars democratically elected government, claiming voter fraud had led to a landslide victory for NLD party in the countrys November 2020 election. The junta has yet to provide evidence of its claims and has violently suppressed nationwide demonstrations calling for a return to civilian rule, killing more than 900 people in the process.

In the months since the coup, the junta has barred senior executives of major telecoms, including Telenor, from leaving or entering the country freely without obtaining special permission. And in early July, the junta reportedly ordered the firms to track the devices of political dissidents and report on their behavior.

Following Telenors announcement, junta Minister of Foreign Affairs and Investment Aung Naing Oo said the companys decision was made due to other difficulties such as political pressure, without elaborating.

About seven percent of Telenors total revenue came from Myanmarfor them, Myanmar was a huge market, so they didnt leave because they wanted to, he said.

Aung Naing Oo insisted that Telenors departure would have no impact on the country.

When they [decided to leave], someone else stepped in, so theres no harm done to our country, he said, adding that the military and M1 Group are now preparing for talks.

Telenor invested around U.S. $600 million to set up its operations in Myanmar in 2014 and had since gained more than 17 million subscribersnearly one-third of the countrys population of 54 million. The company said last week that it had agreed to sell off all of its services to M1 for U.S. $105 million.

Economist Soe Tun told RFAs Myanmar Service that Telenors decision to leave will damage Myanmars prospects for attracting foreign investors, who are already wary of entering the country because of the ongoing political turmoil, as well as other issues including lack of infrastructure and widespread corruption.

Currently, large international companies are reluctant to invest in Myanmar and existing companies are leaving, he said.

As Telenor is an international company, I think its withdrawal will discourage other foreign investment. In any case, its going to impact [the economy], although we cannot yet say to what extent.

Control over information

Others suggested that the departure would usher in a new era of state control over information in the country.

Following Telenors announcement, Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director for New York-based Human Rights Watch, issued a statement saying that the company had been put between a rock and a hard place by the juntas demands that it track people opposing its rule.

Coupled with junta threats to Telenor executives that they could not leave the country without prior permission, its not at all surprising that Telenor decided to exit, he said at the time.

The sad part is Telenor will likely be replaced by a company that is less principled in standing up to the juntas rights abusing demands, and the Burmese people will be worse off because of it.

The M1 Group is owned by former Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, who has been linked to Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad and, over the weekend, watchdog Justice For Myanmar said the company could not be trusted to uphold human rights because of its history of collaborating with former Sudanese despot Omar al-Bashir.

Burma Campaign U.K., which monitors the human rights situation in Myanmar, blacklisted the M1 Group in 2019. The M1 Group is not yet directly working with the junta but is a major shareholder in Irrawaddy Green Towers, which operates infrastructure for the military-controlled telecom company Mytel.

Aung Nay Paing, a current Telenor customer, said the M1 Group is indirectly linked to the military and expressed concern over the security of its customers personal information.

When Telenor Myanmar changed hands, it became very difficult for us because the new owner is a group that invested in the construction of Mytels towers and it would favor the junta over its other customers, he said.

We won't be using it anymore. We are now looking for another operator and many of my friends are thinking along the same lines.

Zaw Naing, chief executive of Mandalay Technologies, told RFA that no telecom is strong enough to stand up to the military if it decides to violate the privacy of the public.

The main thing we should keep in mind is, regardless of whether M1 is affiliated with the military or not, there are no longer any protections for our personal freedoms since the junta took power, he said.

This lack of protection means that they can violate your privacy at will. For example, they can access our bank accounts at any time. They can also listen to our telephone conversations whenever they want.

Thirteen days after the coup, military chief Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing suspended Articles 5, 7 and 8 of the Law on the Protection of Citizens Personal Freedom and Security, which regulate the interception of or interference in any communication device and allow telecoms to refuse government requests for the records of electronic communication devices.

Reported by RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Khin Maung Nyane. Written in English by Joshua Lipes.
U.S. President Joe Biden welcomed German Chancellor Angela Merkel to the White House on July 15 in what will be her last official visit to Washington as she prepares to step down after leading Germany for 16 years.

Merkel is expected to emphasize the continuity and stability of the German-U.S. relationship and acknowledge the change of tone under Biden, who has pledged to seek unity with traditional U.S. allies in contrast to the diplomatic discord of former President Donald Trumps tenure.

"The cooperation between the United States and Germany is strong and we hope to continue that, and I'm confident that we will," Biden said at the start of their meeting in the Oval Office.

"I value the friendship," Merkel said.

The two are scheduled to make wider press statements after their discussion.

During the bilateral talks, the two veteran politicians are expected to discuss the coronavirus pandemic, China, Russia, trade, climate change, and the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline that will bring natural gas from Russia to Germany. The latter issue has created a rare strain between the two allies and hampered efforts to patch up relations since Trumps departure.

The nearly completed $11 billion pipeline being laid under the Baltic Sea is a project that the United States has long opposed. Washington argues that it threatens European energy security and will deprive Ukraine of transit fees it collects off land pipelines that cross its territory.

Biden signaled in May that he is ready to get past the issue when he waived looming sanctions against German entities involved in the project, saying it is almost finished and sanctions would harm relations with European allies.



The pragmatic Merkel has said that the project is merely a means of doing business with Russia and a matter of national sovereignty. She also has pointed out that Ukraine will remain a transit route for natural gas even after completion of the pipeline.

China also will be a topic of discussion.

Germany has strong trade ties with China but has also been critical of Beijing's human rights record. Merkel has insisted on the need to cooperate with China on global issues such as combating climate change and tackling the coronavirus pandemic.



But she hopes to avoid a situation in which Germany or the European Union might be forced to choose sides between China and the United States.

Washington is also wondering what course Germany might take after German parliamentary elections on September 26, which will bring the first change in leadership in Germany since 2005 as Merkel prepares to step down.



Merkel is expected to reassure U.S. leaders that there won't be a huge shift.



Merkel's Christian Democratic Union is leading in the polls, but the environmentalist Greens and the center-left Social Democrats are also vying to lead a future government. All three parties are committed to a strong transatlantic relationship.

A solid showing for the Greens, currently polling second place, could put them in a position to join a coalition government with the conservatives for the first time at the federal level.

All three parties are committed to a strong transatlantic relationship.

Merkel already met Vice President Kamala Harris in the morning and was set to meet other top officials and members of congress.

Before meeting Biden, Merkel received her 18th honorary doctorate from Johns Hopkins University, where she commented on her upcoming retirement and plans for the future.

She said she needed a pause to think about what really interests me.

And then Ill try to read, then Ill rest a bit, because Im very tired, and then Ill sleep, and then well see what happens, she said.

With reporting by AP, Tagesschau, and Deutsche Welle
The Western-leaning former secretary of Armenias Security Council, Armen Grigorian, has been appointed first deputy foreign minister in a move that ruling party representatives see as a first step toward his being named foreign minister, a position that is currently vacant.



Grigorian's appointment on July 14 may signal a change of direction in Armenia's Russia-oriented foreign policy that could cause concern in Moscow.



Armenia has had no foreign minister since May 31 when Ara Ayvazian left the post because of policy disagreements with acting Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian.



Pashinian then won a landslide election victory last month that put an end to a political crisis, which erupted after ethnic Armenian forces lost a six-week war against Azerbaijan last year and ceded territory in and around the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh.



The conflict, which claimed the lives of some 6,000 people, ended in a truce brokered by Russia, Armenia's main ally.

Pashinian's chief of staff Arayik Harutiunian introduced Grigorian to the staff of the Foreign Ministry on July 14, expressing confidence that Grigorian will fulfill the tasks assigned to him by the government.



Grigorian, 38, a member of Pashinian's Civic Contract party, has no prior diplomatic experience. He worked with the anti-graft group Transparency International before becoming one of the key figures of Armenias 2018 Velvet Revolution.



He told Foreign Ministry staff after being introduced that he was convinced "we will jointly implement all the tasks outlined in the electoral program of the Civil Contract party that will also be reflected in the governments program."



Grigorian has accused Ayvazian of torpedoing the governments work on the repatriation of Armenian prisoners of war from Azerbaijan by lying when he said that Yerevan had no minefield maps that it could pass on to the Azerbaijani side.



Acting Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Avinian said the political appointment is needed to establish a certain connection between the diplomatic corps and the political leadership in order to remove the differences that have existed to some extent.



Grigorian was one of the few officials who criticized the decision of the Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) not to support member Armenia in its current border standoff with Azerbaijan, advising that the CSTOs secretary-general to show restraint in his public remarks.



Political analyst Armen Baghdasarian told RFE/RL that, if Grigorian is appointed foreign minister, there will be drastic changes as Armenia will start pursuing a pro-Western foreign policy.



"Considering his track record, his numerous statements, I think it will be very difficult for him to pursue a pro-Russian foreign policy. In the event of a sharp change in Armenias foreign policy, Russia will try to react as harshly as possible," Baghdasarian said.



Baghdasarian believes that career diplomats would not agree to cardinal changes in Armenia's foreign policy, so Pashinian looked for a candidate for the top post outside the Foreign Ministry.



"It is searching for and finding allies that is the main task of diplomacy. But Armenia's dependence on Russia today in all respects, and primarily in the security sphere, is so great that I think it would not be a reasonable decision to appoint someone whom Russia absolutely does not trust," he said.
MINSK -- Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Belarus's authoritarian regime of carrying out "massive, unprecedented" raids and detentions against the country's leading civil society organizations and said those being held should be released immediately.



"For nearly a year since the election and in the months leading up to it, Belarusian authorities have imprisoned, harassed, and threatened hundreds of journalists, activists, and critics, said Rachel Denber, the rights watchdog's deputy Europe and Central Asia director.



"But this new spree of raids and detentions takes specific aim at human rights groups, in blatant retaliation for their work documenting the year-long crackdown. All of the activists should be freed immediately, and any bogus charges against them dropped," she added.



HRW's statements come a day after Belarusian police carried out sweeping raids against human rights groups and the media, including the Vyasna human rights center and the Belarusian Helsinki Committee, in a sign that authoritarian ruler Alyaksandr Lukashenka was further ramping up his crackdown on dissent.



At least a dozen people were detained in the July 14 raids targeting at least 19 nongovernmental organizations in Minsk and other cities.



Belarusian authorities have moved to shut down critical and nonstate media outlets and human rights bodies in the wake of mass protests last August after a presidential election that the opposition said was rigged. The opposition and the West say Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who was forced into exile, won the vote.



Vyasna is the largest rights body in the former Soviet republic and one of the main sources of information on political detentions and arrests.



Belarus has been mired in turmoil since the disputed presidential election that gave Lukashenka his sixth consecutive term in power.

He has since put down street protests and dissent over the vote with sometimes lethal force, jailing thousands of people and forcing most opposition leaders who haven't been imprisoned to leave the country.



The West, which has refused to recognize the official results of the vote and does not consider Lukashenka to be the country's legitimate leader, has imposed several rounds of sanctions against the 66-year-old, some of his family members, other senior officials, and on key economic sectors.



Recently, the EU imposed further far-reaching penalties aimed at weakening the regime after the forced landing of a European passenger plane in Minsk and the arrest of an opposition blogger who was on board.



In April, Belarusian Foreign Minister Uladzimer Makey publicly warned that further Western sanctions against Lukashenka's government will be met by a crackdown on the country's civil society.



"Any further toughening of the sanctions will lead to the situation where the civil society [in Belarus] of which they [in the West] care, will stop functioning. And that will be, I believe, absolutely grounded in the current situation," Makey said at the time.



HRW's Denber said in the July 15 statement that all Belarusian officials, "responsible, including at the highest level, for this crackdown need to know they will ultimately be held accountable."



"Belarusian authorities are escalating their abuse in the face of international opposition to the tyranny of the past 11 months, and lashing out without boundaries against domestic critics," Denber said.
Estonias Foreign Ministry has expelled a Russian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move against Moscow.

The step was taken in line with international diplomatic customs and the principle of reciprocity as a response to the expulsion of an Estonian consul from Russia, the Estonian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on July 15.

Last week, Russia briefly detained the Estonian consul in St. Petersburg, Mart Latte, and subsequently declared him persona non grata for allegedly receiving classified documents.

Estonia called the incident a set up and "unlawful and provocative."

Russia's relations with the West, including the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, have been tense in recent years over a host of actions by Moscow, including aggression against its neighbors, election interference, state-sponsored hacking, and human rights abuses at home.

The Kremlin has already expelled Estonian diplomats twice this year, both in retaliation for Estonias expulsion of Russian diplomats.

"Estonia remains interested in neighbourly and constructive relations," the Foreign Ministry said in the statement. "It is still regrettable that Russia has taken an unfriendly line in its communication with the European Union and member states."
BISHKEK -- The Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry has appealed to authorities in neighboring Tajikistan to facilitate the passage to their common border of hundreds of ethnic Kyrgyz who fled Afghanistan amid a major Taliban surge that is raising security concerns in neighboring former Soviet republics.

The ministry also said on July 15 that it had turned to the United Nations for assistance in bringing to Kyrgyzstan ethnic Kyrgyz who entered Tajikistan from Afghanistan -- many with livestock -- on July 13-14.

According to the ministry, 91 Kyrgyz men, 77 women, and 177 children from the village of Andemin in Afghanistan's Vakhon district in the Badakhshan region are currently in Tajikistan and require assistance to reach Kyrgyzstan.

While fleeing Afghanistan, the ministry said, two Kyrgyz children had died of unknown causes.

Semi-nomadic Kyrgyz have lived on the Afghan side of the Pamir Mountains since the 16th century. The number of ethnic Kyrgyz living in Afghanistan is believed to be just over 1,000.

In recent days, hundreds of Afghans, including soldiers and local police, have reportedly fled into neighboring Central Asia countries.

U.S. President Joe Biden has pledged that the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan will be completed by early September. With that deadline nearing, the Taliban have unleashed an offensive and now control about one-third of the countrys 421 districts and district centers in Afghanistan.

Earlier this month, U.S. forces vacated their largest base in Afghanistan at Bagram, north of Kabul.

The rapid withdrawal of U.S. forces, and Taliban battlefield successes, are stoking concerns that the Western-backed government in Kabul may collapse.
PAVLODAR, Kazakhstan -- Four medical staff members of a hospital in Kazakhstan's northern city of Pavlodar have been detained on suspicion of selling more than 200 forged certificates "confirming" vaccinations against COVID-19.

The website distributing the Central Asian nation's police data revealed on July 15 that a manager of a hospital, a physician, and two nurses are suspected of entering false data into the state registry of vaccinated citizens and selling the fake certificates.

An investigation has been launched into the forgery of state documents, officials said.

Last week, police said that several medical staff at hospitals in Nur-Sultan, the capital, and the country's largest city, Almaty, had been detained on similar charges.

Meanwhile, on July 15, the country recorded its highest daily number of newly registered coronavirus cases, 5,314. A day earlier, the number of registered cases in the tightly controlled former Soviet republic was 4,375.

Most new cases have been registered in Nur-Sultan, Almaty, the central Qaraghandy region, and the southern Shymkent region.

In total, the official number of coronavirus cases in Kazakhstan is 472,106, including 4,816 deaths, but many in the country say the real number may be much higher.
Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte has warned that the Baltic nation may continue to experience a "sudden" surge of migrants due to efforts by Belarus to flood it with people from third countries.

Vilnius and the EU have accused Belarusian strongman Alyaksandr Lukashenka of organizing migrant smuggling to punish the Baltic nation for its vocal support of Belaruss democratic opposition.

On a visit to Athens on July 15, Simonyte said there were "20 times" more people who crossed the border so far this year when compared with 2020 or 2019.

So far this year, Lithuania has detained more than 1,700 migrants arriving from Belarus, compared with 81 for all of 2020. In July alone, 1,100 migrants crossed from Belarus into Lithuania.

Crisis In Belarus Read our coverage as Belarusians continue to demand the resignation of Alyaksandr Lukashenka amid a brutal crackdown on protesters. The West refuses to recognize him as the country's legitimate leader after an August 9 election considered fraudulent.

While the actual numbers may pale in comparison to what some EU countries face, "what is frightening is the trend," she told reporters after talks with her Greek counterpart Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

"We were never on the [migration] route...of people trying to get to the European Union, so this is a little bit sudden," Simonyte said,

Lithuania has been one of the staunchest critics of Lukashenka, calling for a robust EU response against his regime.

The Baltic country has also become a center for the Belarusian opposition led by Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya since Lukashenkas regime launched a crackdown following last Augusts disputed election.

Mitsotakis called the migrant flows an "orchestrated effort" by Belarus to pressure its neighbor, adding what Minsk is doing "is simply unacceptable."

Simonyte was in Athens to discuss Greeces experience handling migrants since the 2015 refugee crisis, including establishing reception facilities, speeding up asylum procedures, and how to return those not entitled to international legal protection.

Earlier this month, Lithuania announced plans to open a camp to house migrants and a fence began to be erected along the border with Belarus.

While the prime minister was in Greece, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis visited Iraq in order to get the government to clamp down on the alleged smuggling of Iraqi migrants to Lithuania via Minsk.

Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein pledged to investigate "the plan to smuggle Iraqis into Europe.

"We will not accept smugglers in our society," he said. "It's our duty to protect our citizens, whether they be inside or outside the country."

Landsbergis accused Belarus of using Iraqis to pressure my country and the European Union.

We feel Iraqis are being promised an easy trip to Europe and they end up in the forest," Landsbergis said.

"They were lied to [by smugglers] and spent a lot of money.... There's a mutual need to stop this network of illegal migration," he added.

With reporting by AFP and Reuters
The former leader of Romanias Social Democratic Party (PSD) has been released from prison after serving part of a 3 1/2 year sentence for corruption.

Liviu Dragnea, who for years was considered Romanias most powerful politician, walked out of a Bucharest prison on July 15 declaring himself a political prisoner.

Dragnea had appealed to a Bucharest court, which agreed on July 15 that his good behavior warranted early release after serving almost two years and two months of his total sentence.

The former party boss was found guilty in 2019 of influence-peddling to secure fake public jobs for two women who were working for the PSD at the time.

Dragnea led the PSD to victory in 2016 parliamentary elections but was unable to become prime minister due to a suspended sentence related to electoral fraud.

Yet as leader of the PSD he still exerted power from behind the scenes as the then-ruling party pushed justice reforms that prompted warnings from the European Union and massive protests against corruption.

Dragnea's arrest in 2019 coincided with political blows to his party, which lost the presidential election the same year and was removed from power through a no-confidence vote.

Although he was released from prison, Dragnea is still being investigated in two more cases related to allegations of influence-peddling and embezzling European Union funds.

Its unclear if he plans to return to politics.

Some in the PSD view that possibility as a potential liability for the party, while upon his release Dragnea called the PSD "dusty" and led by "cowards."

Vasile Dincu, a former deputy prime minister and current president of the PSD's National Council, told RFE/RL that some in the party are wary of his return to politics.

"Many rejected Liviu Dragnea. Others are scared and think that his return could be a disaster for them or the PSD," Dincu said, adding that he thinks the former party leader would mostly take care of personal matters.

With reporting by AFP, Reuters, and RFE/RL's Romanian Service
Masih Alinejads harsh criticism of Irans clerical establishment, her campaign against the compulsory hijab, and efforts to highlight Tehran's rights abuses, have angered Iranian officials who have tried to silence her through intimidation, smearing her name, and pressuring her family.

But an alleged plot to kidnap Alinejad -- an activist and journalist who hosts a weekly television show on the Voice of America's Persian Service -- appears to be the latest action against her.

The U.S Justice Department said on July 13 that an Iranian intelligence officer and three alleged member of an Iranian intelligence network have been charged with conspiring to lure a New York-based journalist to a third country and forcibly return her to Iran.

Alinejad, who left Iran in 2009 and has been living in the United States since 2014, confirmed she is the journalist in the indictment, saying on Twitter that shes grateful to the FBI for foiling the plot.

The four also allegedly plotted to lure a person living in Britain and three others in Canada to Iran, according to the indictment. The identities of those targeted have not been made public.

Irans Foreign Ministry rejected as ridiculous and baseless the Justice Department claim about Tehrans involvement in a kidnapping plot. "This is not the first time that the United States has undertaken such Hollywood scenarios," Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said on July 14.

Alinejad -- who is a former contributor to RFE/RL's Radio Farda -- told RFE/RL in a statement that she believes she was targeted for her human rights efforts, while adding that she will not give up her activism.

As an Iranian journalist and activist, my crime is to give voice to the mothers whose children were killed by the Islamic Republic of Iran. To women who have had enough of the institutionalized gender apartheid. To minorities who are discriminated against. But this is enough to petrify the Islamic republic, she said.

The 44-year-old Alinejad -- who has scores of fans and hardcore supporters as well as her critics -- has challenged Iranian officials from her home in Brooklyn while highlighting some aspects of life under Irans repressive establishment.

Once employed as a parliamentary reporter in Tehran, Alinejad has used social media to bring attention to the harassment of women that are deemed by morality police and vigilantes to be insufficiently covered by posting videos of the incidents.

Alinejad has more than 5 million followers on Instagram alone.

She has also conducted interviews with victims of state repression, including mothers who lost their children in Irans brutal November 2019 crackdown on antiestablishment protests that left at least 300 dead, according to Amnesty International, and shares them with her millions of followers.

Gisou Nia, a human rights lawyer and the head of the Strategic Litigation Project at the Atlantic Council, told RFE/RL that Alinejad has been targeted by Tehran due to her "ability to mobilize the public."

There are many critics of the Islamic republic abroad, but few have the capacity to inspire people-led action on the street the way that Masih [Alinejad] and her ideas have, Nia said.

In 2014, Alinejad created a Facebook page called My Stealthy Freedom, where dozens of women posted photos of themselves without the Islamic hijab that became compulsory following the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Iranian women have increasingly defied the hijab rule over the years by wearing small head scarves and short coats or by showing more of their hair.

Alinejad is also the founder of the White Wednesdays campaign that encourages Iranian women to publicly protest against the forced hijab rule and post online videos of their demonstrations.

Several women who participated in Alinejads campaign have been jailed in Iran. The campaign is believed to have inspired some of the women who removed their head scarves on the streets of Tehran and other cities in 2018, defiantly flouting the compulsory hijab rule.

Her critics have accused her of being used by U.S. hawks to push for regime change in Iran while being silent about tough economic sanctions by Washington that have made life increasingly difficult for ordinary Iranians, including many women.

Her February 2019 meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo drew sharp criticism from those who said Pompeos advocacy for human rights in Iran amid his silence about abuses in Saudi Arabia was ingenuine, as well as from those who accused the administration of President Donald Trump of pushing for a military conflict with Iran.

Alinejad tweeted then that she had done her best to be the voice of the people who trust me during the meeting.

Hard-line news sites and state-controlled television have accused her of promoting immorality and a negative image of Iran while officials have warned women not to join her anti-hijab campaign.

Alinejads brother, Alireza Alinejad, was arrested in September 2020 in what she said was an attempt to silence her. The father of two was later sentenced to eight years in prison after being convicted of charges that include "conspiracy to act against the security of the country. His lawyer said that part of Alireza Alinejads hearing had been devoted to his sisters activities.

The alleged plot to kidnap Alinejad and others has renewed concerns over the Islamic republics efforts to target dissidents outside the country. Alinejad has said that Iranian authorities had previously attempted to lure her to Turkey by pressuring family members, including her brother, who had warned her.

Tehran has been long accused of harassing and assassinating political opponents outside the country, including in Europe.

In recent months, three activists living abroad have been detained by Iranian authorities.

They include Paris-based Ruhollah Zam, the administrator of a popular opposition Telegram channel who was executed in December 2020 after being reportedly captured in Iraq in October 2019 and transferred to Iran. Rights activists have said his trial was a sham.

Opposition activists Jamshid Sharmahd and Habib Chaab are both believed to have been arrested outside of Iran and transferred to the country under unclear circumstances.

Sharmahd, a California-based member of an obscure exile monarchist group, appeared blindfolded on Iranian state television in August 2019. His family said he was traveling to India via Dubai when he went missing.

Chaab, the former leader of the separatist group the Arab Struggle Movement for the Liberation of Ahwaz, was arrested in Turkey in October 2020 and taken to Iran, Iranian media reported.

Nia said Iran and other countries are getting more brazen in their transnational repression attempts.

The escalation in recent years of abducting Iranian dissidents abroad and returning them to Iran for imprisonment and eventually execution is part of a larger global pattern of increased transnational repression that flouts international law and thrives with continued impunity for perpetrators, she said.

Paris-based dissident and political analyst Reza Alijani told Radio Farda on July 15 that he had been warned by the French Interior Ministry several months ago that he is under threat from Iran. He said French authorities did not give him any specific details but said he should be cautious when going out and traveling.

Alijani told Radio Farda that he decided to go public about the warning after learning about the alleged kidnapping plot targeting Alinejad.
A prosecutor has asked a Moscow court to hand prominent U.S. investor Michael Calvey a six-year suspended sentence in his high-profile embezzlement case.

The state prosecutor on July 15 also asked the Meshchansky district court to hand a five-year suspended prison term to Calveys associate, Philippe Delpal, who is a French national, and suspended prison terms between four years and five years to five other defendants in the case.

The trial of Calvey, the founder of the private equity group Baring Vostok, Delpal, and five other associates -- Russian citizens Vagan Abgaryan, Ivan Zyuzin, Maksim Vladimirov, Aleksei Kordichev, and Aleksandr Tsakunov -- started on February 2, almost two years after their arrest.

They have been under house arrest during the trial.

The defendants all deny any wrongdoing, saying the charges against them are being used to pressure them in a business dispute over control of Vostochny Bank.

The case has rattled Russias business community and prompted several prominent officials and businessmen to voice concerns about the treatment of the executives.

Baring Vostok is one of the largest and oldest private-equity firms operating in Russia. It was founded in the early 1990s and manages more than $3.7 billion in assets. The company was an early major investor in Yandex, Russia's dominant search engine.

Calvey is one of several Americans currently held in Russia on charges their supporters say are groundless.

Paul Whelan, a former U.S. Marine, was sentenced in June 2020 to 16 years on espionage charges, which he has rejected.

Another former U.S. Marine, Trevor Reed, was sentenced to nine years in prison in late July 2020 after a Moscow court found him guilty of assaulting two police officers, a charge that he refused to admit.

With reporting by Interfax, RIA Novosti, and TASS
Pyotr Mamonov, a rock musician and actor who was prominent on the Russian cultural scene, has died at the age of 70.

Mamonov died on July 15 at a Moscow hospital nearly two weeks after being admitted to intensive care after testing positive for the coronavirus.

In August 2019, Mamonov was admitted to intensive care with a heart attack. He then underwent two heart operations.

In 1982, Mamonov founded the rock group Zvuki Mu (Sounds of Mu) in 1982, becoming one of the few Soviet rock musicians to receive attention from abroad.

Mamonov later started acting, performing in several films and theater productions in the 1990s.

In the 1990s, Mamonov discovered his faith in Orthodox Christianity, left Moscow, and moved to a village.

But he returned to acting as a devout Russian Orthodox monk in Pavel Lungin's 2006 movie Island and as Russian tsar Ivan the Terrible in Lungin's 2009 film Tsar.

Based on reporting by Current Time and AP
U.S. climate envoy John Kerry and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed in a phone call on July 14 that the United States and Russia should work together on climate issues, the U.S. State Department said in a statement.



Kerry and Putin "underscored the importance of the United States and Russia working together across a range of climate issues," the statement said, adding that they also affirmed the importance of working toward a successful UN climate change conference scheduled to take place in Glasgow, Scotland, in November.



A Kremlin statement said Putin told Kerry that the climate problem was "one of the areas where Russia and the United States have common interests and similar approaches."



Kerry, who is visiting Moscow this week, emphasized that the United States and Russia have important roles to play, including aiming for net-zero emissions in the long term, eliminating emissions from coal, and working to address Arctic-related climate issues under Russias chairmanship of the Arctic Council, the State Department said.

Putin concurred on the need to redouble international climate efforts and affirmed Russias intention to address its own emissions, among other actions.



Putin said Moscow "attaches great importance" to achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement and "advocates de-politicizing" dialogue on climate change.



Climate change is one of the few areas in which the United States and the European Union have said they are ready to engage with Russia. A range of issues, including Russias activities in Ukraine, cyberattacks, Moscow's human rights record, the poisoning of opposition politician Aleksei Navalny, have added to tensions between the two countries.



Moscow has welcomed Kerry's visit and called it a positive step to improve relations.

With reporting by Reuters, AFP, and TASS
Authorities in Russia have effectively banned investigative news outlet The Project after declaring it an undesirable organization in a major escalation of the Kremlins clampdown on independent media.

The July 15 move, part of a wider crackdown ahead of parliamentary elections in September on media that authorities view as hostile and foreign-backed, targets a media outlet that has published a series of well-researched, unflattering, and sometimes embarrassing investigations into Russia's ruling elite.

"The reason for this decision was the fact that its activities pose a threat to the foundations of the constitutional order and security of the Russian Federation," the Prosecutor-General's Office said in a statement on July 15, mirroring the wording it has used in similar announcements against other independent media outlets.

Eight journalists were also labeled as foreign agents, including reporters from The Project, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, and Open Media, according to a July 15 update of a Justice Ministry registry.

Among those blacklisted were Roman Badanin, editor in chief of The Project, as well Yulia Yarosh, editor in chief of Open Media.

Last month, police in Moscow carried out searches at the homes of Badanin and other colleagues from The Project hours after it published a report questioning how Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev and his relatives acquired their wealth.

Also added to the list was Elizaveta Maetnaya, a Moscow-based freelancer for RFE/RLs Russian Service, a move condemned by RFE/RL President Jamie Fly.

"RFE/RL deplores the Russian governments decision to add our correspondent Elizaveta Maetnaya to its list of 'foreign agents.' The journalists who work for RFE/RL in Russia are proud Russians, seeking to use their skills to provide objective news and information to their fellow citizens. These escalating Kremlin attacks on independent voices only serve to deprive the Russian people of access to information at a critical moment in Russias history," Fly said in a statement.

Russias controversial foreign agent legislation was adopted in 2012 and has been modified repeatedly. It requires nongovernmental organizations that receive foreign assistance and that the government deems to be engaged in political activity to be registered, to identify themselves as foreign agents, and to submit to audits.

The "undesirable" organization law, adopted in May 2015 and since updated, was part of a series of regulations pushed by the Kremlin that squeezed many nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations that received funding from foreign sources -- mainly from Europe and the United States.

In 2017, the Russian government placed RFE/RL's Russian Service on the "foreign agents" list, along with six other RFE/RL Russian-language news services and Current Time. The Russian Service of VOA was also added to the list.

At the end of 2020, the legislation was modified again to allow the Russian government to include individuals, including foreign journalists, on the "foreign agent" list and to impose restrictions on them.

The designation of "undesirable organization" also hits The Project's funding hard as it wont be able to crowdfund anymore since the law makes sending money to such an organization a criminal offence.

A Council of Europe (CoE) legal advisory body earlier this month criticized those amendments, saying they constitute serious violations of basic human rights and will have a chilling effect on political life inside the country.

In a report analyzing the amendments, published on July 6, the CoE's Venice Commission, which is composed of independent experts in the field of constitutional law, called on Russia to reject aspects of its "foreign agent" laws such as registration and reporting requirements, or alternatively revise the entire body of the legislation by narrowing the definition of a foreign agent.

Russia began to pass the legislation at the time when the largest protests against the rule of Vladimir Putin, who has served as either president or prime minister since 1999, was roiling the country.

The protests were sparked by what the opposition called rigged parliamentary elections in December 2011 and continued into the following year.

Putin blamed the wave of demonstrations on former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, claiming without evidence that she gave the opposition "a signal" to take to the streets.

With reporting by Interfax and Reuters
Ukrainian lawmakers have accepted the resignation of Interior Minister Arsen Avakov, one of the nation's most powerful officials, who led the ministry for more than seven years.



Avakov, 57, who served as minister in the last four governments, submitted his letter of resignation two days before parliament voted on July 15 to accept it.



Avakov did not disclose a reason for his sudden decision, which comes amid growing speculation that President Volodymyr Zelenskiy intended to dismiss him for his failure to back certain decisions taken by the National Security and Defense Council, a stance which some in the administration perceived as a lack of loyalty. Avakov is a member of the council.



Avakov's replacement may be considered by parliament as early as July 16.



Immediately after Avakov announced his intention to resign, Zelenskiy named 40-year-old Denys Monastyrskiy, a lawmaker from his Servant of the People party, as the person he wanted to replace the outgoing minister.



Analysts said the immediate announcement of a successor supported speculation that Zelenskiy had been planning to oust Avakov.



Avakov said in March that he would not support imposing sanctions on Zelenskiy's chief rival, former President Petro Poroshenko, adding he was not "an enemy of Ukraine." Avakov served under Poroshenko, who is now under investigation for abuse of office charges he calls politically motivated.



A former governor and party leader, Avakov is considered to be one of the most powerful people in the country behind Zelenskiy and his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak.

He was one of only two ministers from Poroshenkos team to be invited to join Zelenskiys first government in 2019 headed by Prime Minister Oleksei Honcharuk. The other -- Finance Minister Oksana Markarova -- was fired in March 2020.



Avakov has been able to hang on to his post despite several changes of government because he had built strong support among lawmakers and because he likely possesses potentially compromising information on politicians, Ukrainskaya Pravda said in a June 17 article focusing on rumors of his possible dismissal.

Avakov's departure potentially strengthens the power concentrated in the presidential office, said former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine John Herbst.



The interior minister controls most of Ukraine's law enforcement bodies, from the National Police force down to local police departments, as well as the National Guard.



The border guards, Coast Guard, Emergency Situations Ministry, and Migration Service also fall under the control of the Interior Ministry.



Avakov has been a divisive figure in Ukraine during his tenure, facing calls in recent years to step down, including in 2020.



Critics had long accused Avakov of failing to rein in police abuses, carry out reforms, and promote law and order in the country. He has also been accused of corruption.



His continued presence at the ministry appeared to become a drag on Zelenskiys ratings.

With reporting by The Kyiv Post and Ukrainskaya Pravda
Police in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, used tear gas in an attempt to disperse hundreds of retired law enforcement officers as they tried to storm the parliament during a protest for higher pensions on July 14. The demonstrators retreated from the parliament but blocked streets around the nearby government building. The retired officers warned they would continue to protest in front of the parliament until their demands for better pensions are met.
The departure of Ukrainian political heavyweight Arsen Avakov from the post of interior minister could open the door for President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to concentrate more power in his hands as he seeks to take on entrenched interests and advance a reform agenda.

Avakov quietly resigned July 13 without offering a reason for his sudden departure, leading to speculation Zelenskiy reached a back-door agreement with the influential minister to step down after seven years in office.

The 57-year-old Avakov is considered by many to be one of the most powerful people in the country after Zelenskiy and his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak. He oversaw about 300,000 law enforcement officials and a significant share of Ukraine's annual budget expenditures.

His long tenure at the helm of the Interior Ministry -- despite multiple changes of government, accusations of corruption and ties to tycoons, as well as calls for his resignation -- led some to describe him as untouchable.

However, his forced exit may be the latest sign that Zelenskiy is starting to assert himself against long-established players after two years in power, said William Pomeranz, deputy director of the Wilson Center's Kennan Institute.

I think that this shows that Zelenskiy is more confident and wants his own people in these positions, he said. He is potentially consolidating his power.

Zelenskiy, a former comic, was a political novice when he won the presidency at age 41 in a landslide in April 2019 on promises to clean up corruption and take on the tycoons who control power from behind the scenes.

When his Servant of the People party swept parliamentary elections in July of that year, Zelenskiy was handed a mandate to form a completely new government.

He filled it largely with young, inexperienced ministers, but kept Avakov in place, disappointing many supporters who saw the controversial interior minister as a representative of the old elite they had just dethroned.

Ongoing War

Adrian Karatnycky, a U.S.-based political analyst, said Zelenskiy needed Avakov until he could get a better understanding of the military and political situation in the country.

Ukraine has been engaged in a simmering war with Russia-backed fighters in parts of two eastern provinces since 2014, an issue that continues to dominate national politics.

Avakov, who played a major role in preparing Ukraines forces, was a necessary element of stability at a critical time, Karatnycky said.

As interior minister, Avakov oversaw most of Ukraine's law enforcement bodies -- from the National Police force on down to local police departments, as well as the National Guard, and some feared his departure could lead to significant disruptions.

The border guards, coast guard, Emergency Situations Ministry, and Migration Service also fell under his control.

Karatnycky credited Avakov with whipping into shape Ukraines degraded military force once war broke out, but said his legacy is mixed.

Opponents say Avakov failed to reform the law enforcement agencies, including by rooting out violence and endemic corruption, and to significantly bolster the rule of law. He rejects these claims, pointing to higher approval ratings for the police.

The publics frustration with Avakovs leadership spilled into the streets of Kyiv in June 2020 following several scandals, including a report that police officers allegedly raped and tortured a woman.

Despite Avakovs low public approval rating, Zelenskiy backed the minister at the time.

However, the president has begun to assert himself more in recent months, including taking on oligarchic and other vested interests.

In February, he sanctioned Kremlin-friendly tycoon and lawmaker Viktor Medvedchuk and his media stations in a bold move that shocked Ukraines establishment. He said it was just the start of a campaign to bring the nations tycoons, who have been accused of blocking key reforms over the years, under control.

Zelenskiy then fired the head of the Constitutional Court in March after it scrapped the core of the nations anti-corruption legislation. A panel of judges from Ukraine's Supreme Court on July 14 overturned Zelenskiys decision.

In a move criticized by the United States and the European Union for not following good corporate government procedures, his cabinet in April replaced the long-time head of Naftogaz, the state-owned energy company and nations largest taxpayer, after it posted a large loss.

Ukrainian media in June began to report that Zelenskiy had grown frustrated with Avakov after the minister expressed opposition to some policies, including the use of sanctions against tycoons and the transfer of the National Guard and Migration Service to other ministries, which would have significantly reduced his influence.

Avakov has been an outlier in the cabinet.

He was the only remaining holdover from the government of Zelenskiys predecessor and rival, former President Petro Poroshenko.

And he was also the only minister who has been an independent political player with his own support base in parliament.

Avakov was never an integral part of the [Zelenskiy] team, said Karatnycky.

Zelenskiy nominated Denys Monastyrskiy, a lawmaker from his Servant of the People party and the head of the parliament's Law Enforcement Committee, to replace Avakov.

Monastyrskiy, 41, had previously served as an adviser to Deputy Interior Minister Anton Herashchenko, who is close to Avakov.

That has led some analysts to speculate that Zelenskiy and Avakov agreed on conditions of his departure, including not targeting him with criminal investigations.

In a response to RFE/RL, Zelenskiys office said that Avakov had no input in the choice of a successor and had shown no preference for Monastyrskiy.

Zelenskiy made the choice on his own and expects Monastyrskiy to make the ministry more transparent and accountable, it said in an e-mail.

Zelenskiys office praised Avakov for initiating and administering many reforms at a very critical time for both Ukraine and the Interior Ministry, but said that the pace and scope of reforms needs to be accelerated and deepened.

Zelenskiy wants Monastyrskiy to focus on depoliticization, transparency, efficiency, and service-oriented transformation of agencies within the ministry, including the Migration Service, it said.

Karatnycky described Monastyrskiy as a minister who would be less independent and more sensitive to requests from the presidential office than Avakov has been.

Welcomed Departure

Members of the business community and civil society cheered Avakovs departure.

Morgan Williams, the president of the Washington-based U.S.-Ukraine Business Council, told RFE/RL that it backs turnover of office in general and that it can be detrimental when ministers hold their positions for too long.

Daria Kalenyuk, the executive director of the Kyiv-based Anti-Corruption Action Center, said Avakov treated the ministry as his own personal army.

She said his exit opens the possibility for pushing ahead with the stalled police reforms.

Without change, things will not get better," she said. "And even if Monastyrskiy is an Avakov guy, it doesn't mean that he will behave like Avakov."

Pomeranz said Zelenskiys quiet removal of Avakov is timely, coming ahead of his much-anticipated trip to Washington later this summer to meet with U.S. President Joe Biden.

Avakov has been accused of corruption, with activists questioning how he acquired his wealth despite having worked in government much of his life.

The former minister is also considered to be close to tycoon Ihor Kolomoyskiy, whom the Biden administration blacklisted earlier this year for corruption, and he allegedly protected businessmen from investigations. Avakov has denied those allegations.

The Biden administration has taken a noticeably more vocal stance on corruption and stalled reforms in Ukraine than the previous administration, repeatedly calling on Zelenskiy to tackle the problems.

Pomeranz said Zelenskiy needs to show he is in control when he meets Biden because the U.S. president has basically said we are all for you, but if you dont clean the country up, our patience will not last.'
MARION -- Troopers from the Marion Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol are investigating a fatal crash that occurred Wednesday at 2:09 p.m. on Marseilles-Galion Road (County Road 26), east of Martel Road (County Road 171), in Tully Township.

The crash involved a 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, driven by a David Burns, 72, of Marion, and a John Deere lawn tractor, driven by Jerry Baldinger, 61, of Caledonia.

Troopers said Burns was westbound on Marseilles-Galion Road when the lawn tractor entered the roadway from the north. The Chevrolet collided with the tractor before both vehicles became engulfed in flames.

Baldinger was transported from the scene by First Consolidated EMS to Marion General Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Burns was transported from the scene by Marion Township EMS to Marion General Hospital with minor injuries.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted at the scene by Marion County Sheriffs Office, First Consolidated Fire and EMS, Marion Township EMS, and B&B Towing Service.

This crash remains under investigation, according to the patrol.
BUCYRUS  The Community Foundation for Crawford County announces Katlyn Stull as the 2021 recipient of the Stan and Carolyn DeGreve Scholarship.

Katlyn is a 2018 Crestline High School graduate attending North Central State College. Her intended major is education, but she doesnt yet know what subject she wants to teach. Subscribe to the Foundations blog or follow them on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to read in-depth articles about each of this years scholarship winners, called the Scholarship Recipient Spotlight series.

So far this year, the Foundation has added four scholarship funds to the ever-expanding list of funds that they manage. The new scholarship funds are the Arlene H. Smith Scholarship, the L. Earl Smith Scholarship, the Dorothy Sherer Flohr Scholarship, and the Stan and Carolyn DeGreve Scholarship.

With these four new scholarship funds, the Foundation now manages a total of 38 scholarship funds. So far in 2021, 34 scholarship funds have given out 108 scholarships to 67 students for a total amount of $84,425 in scholarships awarded.

These numbers will go up before the end of the year, said Lisa Workman, Foundation President. We still have funds available to award for the Pry Scholarship (2021 fall semester) and the Samuel Neff Fellowship for International Study Scholarship.

"We are extremely excited to have acquired these new scholarships, with one awarding its first scholarship now, and the other three to begin awarding in 2022.

FOUR NEW SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS

Arlene H. Smith Scholarship: This scholarship came under the management of the Foundation in 2021. In memory of Arlene H. Smith, this scholarship honors her life and the profession she loved.

Arlene was a lifelong resident of Crawford County. She graduated from North Robinson High School and attended Mansfield General Hospital School of Nursing. In 1948, she proudly graduated as a registered nurse after completing her clinical experience at a Cleveland hospital. Most of her professional career was spent in the field of geriatrics. However, Arlene also helped local youth by serving as a 4-H leader. In addition, she was a willing mentor to those interested in nursing. She believed in maintaining high professional standards and transferred that expectation to others. Because of the high value she placed on the nursing profession, Arlene wished to provide a scholarship that would benefit Crawford and Richland County residents with the compassion and calling to enter this field.

This scholarship awards six $1,000 scholarships annually. Applicants must be a graduating senior or graduate of a Crawford or Richland County high school. Residents of these counties who have passed an Ohio High School Equivalence Assessment are also eligible. Preference is given to graduating seniors who are pursuing a degree in the field of nursing and can display financial need. To encourage completion of a degree, this award is renewable, but students must reapply and be chosen each year.

L. Earl Smith Scholarship: This scholarship came under the management of the Foundation in 2021. In memory of Earl Smith, this scholarship honors his life and passion for agriculture.

Earl was part of a family that had lived and farmed in Crawford County since his ancestors homesteaded in the 1820's. A 1943 graduate of Tiro High School, he was active in the FFA and earned the state farmer award in 1942. After serving in the U.S. Navy during WWII, Earl was employed as a pressman for 42 years with the Shelby Salesbook and farmed for many years. As Earl truly loved farming and felt most at home tending his land, he wished to provide a scholarship opportunity to benefit Crawford and Richland County residents pursuing a post-secondary education in the field of agriculture.

This scholarship awards six $1,000 scholarships annually. Applicants must be a graduating senior or graduate of a Crawford or Richland County high school. Residents of these counties who have passed an Ohio High School Equivalence Assessment are also eligible. Preference is given to graduating seniors who are pursuing a degree in the field of agriculture and can display financial need. To encourage completion of a degree, this award is renewable, but students must reapply and be chosen each year.

Dorothy Sherer Flohr Scholarship: Established in 2021 by her children, this scholarship honors the caring and compassion of Dorothy Sherer Flohr. After driving a school bus for Galion City Schools for several years during the late 1970s, Dorothy began attending night school at the former North Central Technical College (now North Central State College). With hard work and dedication, she earned her Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) degree in 1981. This lifelong dream was obtained while also raising six children as a single parent and working full time during the day. She then devoted her entire 15-year nursing career to working the 3:00-11:00 pm shift on the medical surgical floor at Galion Community Hospital (now Avita Health System). An inspiration to her family, two of her daughters and two of her grandchildren subsequently followed her into the nursing field.

This scholarship is designed to aid non-traditional current nursing students. Preference is given to 2nd-year LPN students attending North Central State College (NCSC). If no LPN students apply, preference is given to a Registered Nurse (RN) student entering their final year of an RN program. Preference is also given to those who can display evidence of financial need. All awardees must have graduated from a Crawford County High School, have a minimum 2.5 GPA, and complete a 500-word essay on the topic: Why I Want to Pursue a Career in Nursing.

Stan and Carolyn DeGreve Scholarship: This scholarship was established by Mark and Laura Potter, Stan and Carolyns son-in-law and daughter respectively, to honor Stanley Charles DeGreve (Crestline High School Class of 1953) and Lecta Carolyn Yerkey DeGreve (Crestline High School Class of 1958). Following graduation, Stan earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering from The Ohio State University and served our country in the US Air Force. Stan and Carolyns lives have been blessed with a loving family, many personal and professional successes, and a lifetime of endeavors that have taken them around the world. The character and values they have embodied throughoutfamily, determination, hard work, respect, love of countryare rooted in Crestline, Ohio. This scholarship is intended to honor Stan and Carolyn and the town of Crestline.

This $1,000 scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating senior or graduate of Crestline High School. Preference will be given to those students studying the field of engineering, especially if they are attending The Ohio State University. Preference is also given to those students who can display financial need. Evidence of participation in extracurricular activities and community service may be considered. This scholarship is renewable for the entire time a student is in school to encourage completion of his/her course study; however, the student will have to reapply every year and be chosen.

Scholarship applications for the majority of the Foundations scholarships open in late November with a deadline of March 1, 2022 at 5pm. Exceptions to this rule include the Pry Scholarship which awards every semester, the Samuel Neff Fellowship for International Study Scholarship which has two deadlines each year of May 15th and October 31st, and the Come Home Scholarship which has an open deadline and accepts applications year-round.

To view all the scholarship opportunities available at the Foundation, learn a little about each scholarship, and to check the requirement for each, please visit www.cfcrawford.org/scholarships.
MANSFIELD  The Mansfield Partners in Education Team, comprised of the Renaissance Performing Arts Association, the Mansfield Art Center, and Mansfield City Schools, will host a two-day professional development workshop on arts integration for elementary and intermediate educators, and administrators on July 29-30 in the Pioneer CTC Performing Arts classroom, located at the Renaissances Theatre 166 venue.

The registration fee of $125 for the workshop has been covered for all participants through the generous support of the Ohio Arts Council and Charles P. Hahn, CFP.

Kennedy Center teaching artist Randy Barron will lead workshops entitled, Math on the Move for teachers serving students in grades K-2; and for those teaching students in grades 3-8. Through dance and creative movement activities, students become kinesthetically and visually engaged in creating number sense and developing an understanding of the important ideas underlying all of mathematics.

In this activity-focused workshop, Mr. Barron leads teachers in a set of lessons that help students build their own mathematical understanding while making dances. Participants learn and practice the basic elements of dance and choreography in order to create movement solutions to mathematical problems. Teachers will leave with a comprehensive set of tools for immediate use in teaching mathematics and assessing student creative products, while helping students brains develop through movement.

Additionally, Mr. Barron will lead his BEST Behaviors Workshop, a skill-building workshop based in creative dance strategies. The workshop includes techniques for moving students from place to place, developing body and voice self-control, and managing space in the classroom. Using fun, fast-paced, and immediately useful activities make the workshop fly by, and teachers will leave with step-by-step instructions for making the classroom a safe and creative space for students to construct and demonstrate understanding through movement.

Primary grade workshops will be presented from 8:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. on both days for kindergarten through 2nd grade teachers, with intermediate grade workshops held from 12:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. for 3rd-8th grade teachers. Full schedule and registration is available at https://bit.ly/K-8ArtsIntegration.

Contact hour verification for CEUs are available for participants. For more information, call 419-522-2726 ext. 252 or email maddie@mansfieldtickets.com.

Randy Barron has classroom teaching experience dating back to 1980, and he has been a Kennedy Center Teaching Artist since 1995. Randy has led hundreds of professional development events for teachers and teaching artists, in forty US States, as well as in Singapore. Mr. Barron has danced and choreographed professionally with dance companies from Boston and New York City to the Midwest, and he served as a founding Artistic Director of City in Motion Dance Theater in Kansas City, Missouri. Randy has a wide range of experience in education. He has been a charter school founder, a charter high school director, a curriculum writer  and even a school bus driver. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, and he is also a former volunteer firefighter and EMT.

Randy has received the Coll Award of Distinction from the New Mexico Art Education Association. He lives with his wife on the Santa Fe Trail in northeastern New Mexico, just an hours drive from their ten-year-old, identical twin grand-daughters.

The Renaissance Theatre is a performing arts theater located at 138 Park Avenue West, Mansfield, Ohio. Looking for Things to Do in Mansfield? Visit Renaissance Theatres website at rentickets.org to check out their other great events or contact renaissance@mansfieldtickets.com for events, tours, arts, culture and more. For behind-the-scenes videos and more visit the Renaissance Theatres YouTube Channel.
MANSFIELD -- Dave Krackers mission was simple. He was determined to eliminate any financial hurdle for area women in need of a mammogram.

Kracker never imagined his simple fundraising efforts would turn into a countywide organization.

I didnt plan this, Kracker told the audience Wednesday at the 25th anniversary celebration of the Pat Kracker Breast Cancer Fund. All I wanted to do is make sure no woman in this county is without the money for a mammogram.

Today, the Pat Kracker Breast Cancer Fund helps women across Richland County pay for mammograms and other cancer-related costs.

The fund celebrated its 25th anniversary with a ceremonial ribbon cutting at the Westbrook Country Club. Kracker received commendations from both the City of Mansfield and the Ohio House of Representatives.

Kracker founded the fund in 1996 and named it in honor of his wife Pat, who passed away from breast cancer on her 61st birthday.

I laugh because Pat, who was kind of a private person, would not have liked seeing her face on a billboard, Kracker said.

Kracker and the fund's committee are active proponents of mammograms for all women over the age of 40.

Twelve percent of all women will develop breast cancer at some point in their lives, according to Patty Kastelic, director of cancer services for OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital.

While age, lifestyle, gender and genetics all play a role, 75 percent of women who develop breast cancer have no corresponding risk factors.

Treatments for breast cancer have significantly increased survival rates, but early detection is crucial.

Its become a curable disease," Kastelic said. "Its probably the disease thats come the farthest in terms of cancer treatment and survivorship rate.

In its early days, the funds work was primarily paying for mammograms and buying copies of a breast cancer treatment guide to give away at local medical providers offices. The book is a comprehensive guide for treatment and recovery - covering all aspects of breast cancer treatment from diagnosis through recovery.

When you get that diagnosis, the fright of the thing is so powerful you dont know where to start, he said.

The fund continues to purchase copies of the book as well as a guide for patient support partners, but its work has expanded throughout the years.

Breast cancer patients can also get financial assistance for other types of diagnostic procedures, clinical exams, wigs, prosthesis and transportation to and from treatment.

For breast cancer patients who experience income loss, the fund can provide temporary assistance with rent, utilities and other living costs.

Whatever it takes, thats what we try to do, Kracker said.

Kracker said the fund could not do its work without the generous support of the community as well as its affiliates.

Over the last 15 years, the fund has averaged $30,000 in donations per year and aided between 30 and 60 patients each year, chairwoman Rhonda Breit said.

Kracker continues to be an active member of the committee, but the 82-year-old recently turned leadership of the fund over to Breit.

Rhonda is a wolverine. Wolverines are pretty fierce. They dont stop," he said. She has more passion than I do.

Like many of the committee members, Breit is breast cancer survivor. She was treated for stage 1A breast cancer in 2017 and is currently in remission.

When I came out of my treatment, I just felt like I survived for a reason and part of that reason was to give back to other people," Breit said. "Sometimes its just listening. I've had patients that call me that they dont need financial assistance, but they want to know what to expect.

My favorite part about what I do is dealing with the patients," she added. "The amount of strength and courage and bravery that I see on a daily basis working with these women is just phenomenal.

"They deal with the shock of the diagnosis, this overwhelming amount of information, being rushed into testing and treatment and we help them breathe through that," Breit said.

Breit said the fund hopes to expand its services in the future.

We know that there are individuals trying to ramp up their fundraisers this year. If theyre able to succeed in that, we will likely be able to expand our services," she said.

To find out more about the fund or donate, visit helpmepat.org.
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Mayor Todd Gloria Talks About Pride in San Diego

How he'll be celebrating and what allyship means to him
Jimmy Love, who served as attorney to the Lee County Board of Education for more than 40 years before his retirement, was honored Tuesday at the boards regular meeting.

Love officially retired June 30, ending his tenure at Lee County Schools with a party celebrating his 45 years of service. He will continue to work as attorney for Central Carolina Community College, he said.

The school board recently decided to honor him in a more permanent way by naming the Lee County High School boardroom after Love. Following approval this week, the room is now dubbed the Jimmy L. Love Sr. Board Room. District officials plan to hold an event dedicating the room to Love later this year, said Superintendent Andy Bryan.

It is a fitting honor for someone who has dedicated so much of his life to supporting the school system, said board chairwoman Sandra Bowen. Mr. Love is missed in this front row and his impact here in Lee County is not to be understated.

Also Tuesday, the school board approved the purchase of learning software for grades 6-8, for one year, at a cost of $101,746. The software, i-Ready, is already used by elementary school teachers to instruct students in reading and math and assess their progress.

Following an evaluation by the state, the software was also mandated for use in summer school for elementary and middle school students.

Our middle schools enjoyed using it (during summer school), said Chris Dossenbach, assistant superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction. They found value in the data that it produced.

I-Ready is one of the only learning softwares that also offers additional help for students based on data, Dossenbach said.

By continuing to use the program during the regular school year, teachers can better address learning loss that occurred during the coronavirus pandemic, according to Dossenbach. In addition, purchase of the i-Ready software can be funded by COVID-19 money.

This is a request that came out of our middle schools from teachers and principals who are already using it this summer, Dossenbach said. They (the company) guarantee they can get staff development (training) done before the start of the school year.

Also Tuesday, the school board unanimously approved:

 the second reading of a new policy that would require the school board attorney to provide monthly updates on the amount of work hes done and how much it costs;

 a state-approved grading system for alternative schools Bragg Street Academy and Floyd L. Knight;

 renewal of property insurance for Lee County schools and other buildings at a cost of $156,084; and

 an agreement with Johnston County Industries to provide career and college counseling, work-based learning experiences, job skill training, and social and independent living skill training to middle and high school students as well as Floyd L. Knight students.
SARATOGA COUNTY

Duffy sentenced to 18-years-to-life for murder of Allyzibeth Lamont
Webb & Flow

Cardiovascular Translational Research Center moves forward despite pandemic

The start of a pandemic is a heck of a time to launch a research center, but that hasnt stopped Clinton Webb.

Tapped to head the new Cardiovascular Translational Research Center at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in early 2020, Webb arrived just in time for lockdown. International travel restrictions prevented some lab staff from joining him, and a hiring freeze slowed plans for building out the centers core research faculty.

So, how did he get the blood pumping? For starters, he launched a Tuesday afternoon Zoom seminar series to bring together researchers from across the university system and around the world.

Its not quite the same as gathering in the centers 8,000-square-foot lab space, but its an effective way for faculty at the university and elsewhere to learn about the latest research. Its already expanded into an international kind of seminar, says Webb, who frequently invites former postdocs and past collaborators to present. Collaborations are a little more difficult in this environment, but were moving that way.

Webb has also been reaching out to potential campus partners: School of Medicine faculty in cell biology, anatomy, pathology and physiology; researchers in exercise science and nutrition at the Arnold School of Public Health; faculty in the basic sciences on the universitys main campus.

Nontraditional partners are also in play, including at the College of Engineering and Computing, where researchers are interested in blood vessel calcification. I actually had an appointment with an engineer this morning about vascular stiffening, Webb says. Hes interested in it from a much more mathematical modeling perspective, whereas we look at it from more of a functional perspective, but thats a collaboration I think we can build up very quickly.

And there are plenty of other opportunities to fast-track, mostly relating to hypertension and another of Webbs major research interests, erectile dysfunction. Hes also interested in collaborating with faculty working on obesity, diabetes, stroke, cardio-oncology  if it intersects with cardiovascular health, its fair game.

The thing that gets in the way is ego, so what I try to do is bring people together and leave our egos at home. Lets work together and build. I dont like to stand in the way. Clinton Webb

Initially, were focused on things like hypertension because thats my strength, but in the future, we hope to expand across a number of cardiovascular diseases  atherosclerosis, pulmonary hypertension, even blood diseases if someone here is interested in that.

Webbs own interest in hypertension is far-reaching, though much of his research has focused on two principal areas: the role of inflammation, and the vasculogenic aspects of erectile and clitoral dysfunction, which are themselves predictors of cardiovascular disease. He brought funded projects in both areas when he left the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, where he was the Herbert S. Kupperman Chair in Cardiovascular Disease.

The hypertension and inflammation work dates back to a hypothesis Webbs lab proposed back in 2009 on damage associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), which result when the body reacts to the cast-off detritus of dead cells, particularly after injury or a virus.

If you think about the mitochondria, which is the powerhouse of the cell, from an evolutionary standpoint it was derived from bacteria, Webb explains. As long as the mitochondria remains inside the cells everything is fine, but if it gets outside of the cell, then the body reacts to it as if it is a bacterium. When that mitochondrial DNA binds to a receptor called Toll-like receptor 9, that kicks off an inflammatory response.

Its research that may have added import as we emerge from the pandemic. People who get viral infections and have them for a long period of time often develop hypertension, he says. And it doesnt really matter which virus, even the coronavirus. About a third of people who have COVID-19 develop hypertension.

Webbs other funded project, which is on erectile dysfunction, is aimed at people who dont respond to standard compound treatments like Viagra.

About half of all males that develop diabetes also develop erectile dysfunction, and up to 72 percent of those men do not respond to phosphodiesterase 5, which is [the active ingredient in] Viagra, says Webb. Thats a quality-of-life thing, but it also predicts cardiovascular disease generally. With women, its a little more complicated, but clitoral dysfunction is a vasculogenic dysfunction as well.

Like any project that flows through the center, Webbs research will draw upon expertise at the university, as well as at other institutions. Hes talking with a potential collaborator at Vanderbilt about an erectile dysfunction study, as well as with Michael Ryan, a new research professor in the Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, and acting chief of staff for research at the Columbia VA Health Care System, about a two-PI project on cardiovascular health and lupus.

My philosophy has always been the same: the more brains you have in the room, the better off you are, says Webb. The thing that gets in the way is ego, so what I try to do is bring people together and leave our egos at home. Lets work together and build. I dont like to stand in the way.

The Cardiovascular Translational Research Center was launched in 2019 by the University of South Carolina Board of Trustees as a UofSC Excellence Initiative.

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This week, the Small Business Association (SBA) released the data about the 105,000 restaurants that received grants from the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, of which about 2,000 were in the Seattle area and 1000 in Seattle proper.

The $28.6 billion fund, part of the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill that passed in March, set out to help cover the industrys pandemic-driven losses, but the too-small purse caused controversy about how to distribute it.

Ultimately 370,000 businesses applied for $75 billion, but, early on, Congress had directed the SBA to give early access to businesses owned by women, veterans and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals including those who have been subjected to racial or ethnic prejudice or cultural bias. This led to a series of lawsuits, including from the Stephen Miller-led America First Legal, claiming that this put white male applicants at a disadvantage. The early applicants had their pending payments  which theyd already been told they would receive  frozen.

All three of the Seattle restaurant groups that received the maximum payout  $10 million  fit none of the disadvantaged categories Congress hoped to give a leg up: Tom Douglass Sea-Town Restaurants Inc., Elwood Investments LLC (which diners know as Dukes), and Schwartz Brothers  which includes four locations of Daniels Broiler as well as the eponymous bakery. Thirteen Coins, close behind with $9.9 million, did not qualify in any of the priority groups, either. And, as Robb Report pointed out in its national-level assessment of the information, Douglas was one of the first restaurateurs in the nation to lay off its staff en masse after Covid-19 started spreading last March.

The largest grant to a business in Washington that received money and fit any of those came from places that received the largest possible grant to a single-location business  the woman-owned Pink Door and Lish, a catering company founded by ex-Amazon product manager Aakhil Fardeen.

Of the approximately 3,200 businesses in Washington that received grants, 75% fit one or more of the disadvantaged categories, but they totaled only 67% of the money. In Seattle, just 72% fit one or more, and that group received just 61% of the money.

The three businesses that fit all of the groups originally to be favored averaged $178,000, while the 258 who were in none of them averaged $515,755. The fund also appears to have granted $143,000 to Populuxe Brewing, approved on May 29, though permanently closed establishments are not supposed to qualify. The brewery ended its run at the end of last year, with new occupants Yonder Cider and Bale Breaker already moving in.

The data published cant tell us everything  depending on the various corporate structures of restaurants and restaurant groups, it can be hard to know exactly the totals received. For example, a parent company to Renee Erickson and Sea Creatures Walrus and Carpenter received $1,655,164, while Sea Creatures General Porpoise separately filed for $2,457,931.

But the funds granted can also show a near-immediate effect and show their potential, should the government decide to find a way to refill the coffers of the program.

On May 7, Alisons Coastal Cafe & Bakery received the small sum of $14,540  just weeks after Alison Soike and Ryan Faniel announced they would no longer operate the Ballard Elks Lodge Kitchen. Then, just two months later, they had another announcement: they purchased the classic Ballard tavern from retiring owner Pam Hanson. Though $14k is hardly enough to purchase a century-old canal-front cafe, it demonstrates how having the cash to pay off pandemic-related losses might give owners the confidence to take on new endeavors.

Legislation currently in Congress seeks to add another $60 billion to the original amount, but it seems unlikely to happen soon, as lawmakers seem to have moved on to focusing on infrastructure bills at the moment. But hopefully, a few more success stories and the continued fight to right the wrongs from the funds distribution controversy might push the federal government into action.
TIJUANA, Mexico (AP)  In a packed camp for migrant families on Mexico's side of the busiest U.S. border crossing, Nelson Membreno has lived through a chickenpox outbreak, people's heavy drug use and night prowlers wielding knives.

But he isn't more vulnerable than the thousands of others waiting in the camp in Tijuana for their chance to apply for humanitarian protection in the United States. He was surprised to get a call that he and his family were picked to seek asylum.

God opened the door, the 30-year-old from Honduras said before a border officer shouted his name. Wheeling a large suitcase past concrete barriers topped with barbed wire, Membreno walked into the U.S. with his wife, son and stepson.

His confusion speaks to an opaque  if temporary  system the Biden administration has assembled that tasks immigration advocates with choosing which migrants get a limited number of slots to come to the U.S. to claim asylum.

President Joe Biden has kept in place a Trump administration order that quickly expels people from the country without a chance to seek asylum to prevent spread of the coronavirus. While Biden exempted children traveling alone shortly after taking office, his administration also is quietly allowing more families and single adults to avoid the ban. A Justice Department attorney said in federal court Tuesday that a new order dealing with children was coming this week, without elaborating.

There is neither a published list of advocacy groups deciding who is vulnerable enough to claim asylum nor an explanation of how they choose people, with migrants often learning by word of mouth. Final decisions on asylum rest with U.S. authorities, who dont disclose their criteria or say how many people are admitted to the country.

An advocacy group used to send psychologists tent to tent in the Tijuana camp of about 2,000 migrants to identify families who were the most vulnerable. Those who qualified got numbered, laminated cards that put them in a queue to claim asylum. The coalition stopped issuing cards when it discovered profiteers were selling them for $500 to $1,000 each.

Several advocates are uneasy about their unusual assignment. Soraya Vazquez, deputy director of advocacy group Al Otro Lados Tijuana office, calls it the best of bad options, noting that her group facilitated entry for about 2,000 people as of early July.

This way of doing things is definitely not fair," said Vazquez, whose group collected 13,000 online questionnaires by early July asking people about their migration histories, medical issues and safety threats living in Mexico.

Advocates say U.S. officials have provided some guidance to characterize cases as urgent, though the specific criteria isn't public. They include serious medical conditions, imminent physical danger, being LGBTQ or a single mother with young children. But many chosen fall outside those categories.

Recently in Tijuana, volunteer attorney Ian Seruelo of San Diego interviewed about 20 asylum-seekers staying at the camp who scored an appointment in the office of Border Line Crisis Center, part of a network of advocacy groups. The network has searched for vulnerable people at the camp but shifted to migrant shelters, hoping to dispel beliefs that the best chances of getting picked are at the increasingly dangerous and unsanitary camp.

Migrants aggressively trailed advocates who visited the camp, asking, Why are you helping them and not us? Seruelo said. With a mix of Latino and Black migrants, accusations of racism flew. The attorney says he feels put in a corner" choosing who gets into the U.S.

Seruelo spends about 10 minutes with each person in a cubicle, focusing his questions narrowly on living conditions in Tijuana. Their reasons for fleeing their homelands are left for a U.S. immigration judge.

Silvia Portillo, 34, sat with an infant on her lap and told him that she had a difficult pregnancy and that a knife-wielding man threw a rock at her tent in the camp, threatened to set it on fire and asked for money.

I do not feel safe, but I'm there out of necessity, said Portillo, who arrived from Honduras in a 2018 caravan, married a Mexican man and has lived in the camp since February because she cannot afford rent.

Manuel Antonio Segovia of El Salvador says he volunteers as a security guard at the camp, where criminals extorting migrants have punched him in the stomach and chest. Roberto Mejia of Guatemala says a man pulled a gun on him and others told him to leave the camp.

Migrants who are chosen are tested for COVID-19 and typically released into the United States, where a judge will rule on their request for asylum.

Since March, the American Civil Liberties Union has acted as an intermediary by forwarding requests from advocacy groups in Tijuana and elsewhere along the border for up to 35 families a day. The ACLU said in May that about 2,000 people were admitted through the efforts to settle a lawsuit it filed against the government. ACLU attorney Lee Gelernt said the Biden administration wont allow a more recent number to be released.

Separately, advocacy groups also have been choosing up to 250 asylum-seekers a day in other locations, not including San Diego. The group HIAS has facilitated entry for 2,857 people as of July 2, while the International Rescue Committee said it arranged entry for 540 people.

The U.S. Homeland Security Department didn't answer specific questions but said in a statement last month that the exemptions were aimed at identifying and lawfully processing particularly vulnerable individuals who warrant humanitarian exceptions.

Nelson Hernandez, 33, of El Salvador, figured he may have his 4-year-old daughter or elderly mother-in-law to thank for his family getting picked from the Tijuana camp, but he's not sure.

God wanted it, he said before a border official called his name and he set foot on U.S. soil. The family was headed to relatives in McAllen, Texas.

For Membreno, he thinks he may have been chosen because he followed advocates for hours as they visited the camp. Within hours of crossing the border, he was released in San Diego and making plans with his family to join relatives in North Carolina.

____

Associated Press writer Julie Watson in San Diego contributed to this report.
ATLANTA (AP)  Former President Donald Trump is declaring his opposition to a high-ranking Georgia Republican's bid for lieutenant governor, another sign of how state-level politics is being reordered by Trump's insistence that all Republicans repudiate his 2020 election loss.

Trump invited other Republicans to run against Senate President Pro Tem Butch Miller in the statement released late Wednesday.

I will not be supporting or endorsing Sen. Butch Miller, running for lieutenant governor of Georgia, because of his refusal to work with other Republican senators on voter fraud and irregularities in the state, Trump said. Hopefully there will be strong and effective primary challengers for the very important lieutenant governor position!

Trump weighed in as state Sen. Burt Jones of Jackson considers seeking the GOP nomination to succeed Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan, whose support among Republicans collapsed after his outspoken defense of the Georgia election results that gave Joe Biden a narrow victory.

Miller has not gone as far as Jones in promoting the false claim that Trump was cheated out of 16 electoral votes, but he counts Georgia's restrictive new elections law among his top accomplishments, and said voters will support him as a conservative who gets things done.

The work I have done and the message that I have broadcast over the years will be judged by the people of Georgia," Miller told WDUN-AM on Thursday. "And I believe the people of Georgia will respond appropriately.

Miller noted that he presided over the Senate during part of the election law debate, when Duncan retreated to his office.

I presided when others would not preside. I stepped up," Miller said during the radio interview. I intend to stand in the gap and run my own race and not worry about others.

The other Republicans in the race are Jeanne Seaver of Savannah and Mack McGregor of Lafayette.

Jones, of Jackson, was stripped of his committee chair post in January after calling for a special session to consider action to overturn Biden's victory. Unlike Miller, Jones also signed a court brief supporting a failed lawsuit by Texas officials challenging election results in Georgia and other states.

Jones' demotion may have had more to do with the internal politics of the Senate after he lost a leadership challenge to Miller, but he has worn his demotion as a badge of honor for supporting Trump.

Miller had previously finessed whether Trump would endorse him, and tweeted his praises on Monday, saying "No matter what the liberal media says, Donald Trump is the LEADER of this party - and I will proudly continue to support his America First agenda!

After Trump let him down, Miller said his opponents are probably misleading Trump, adding that he's been misinformed, either intentionally or incidentally about his record.

Jones, meanwhile, tweeted his approval of Trumps attack on Miller. Well said, Mr. President! I will continue fighting for election integrity in our state. Stay tuned!

Miller, who co-owns a Gainesville car dealership, has strong support from business interests, raising $2 million in the first five weeks of his candidacy.

Jones appeared Tuesday in Rome with U.S. Rep Marjorie Taylor Greene and other GOP activists at an Election Integrity Town Hall, the first of seven such meetings statewide. Organizers handed out Trump Won signs to attendees, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

Georgia's election results have become a fault line in the party. Embattled Republican Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger faces Trump-endorsed primary challenger U.S. Rep Jody Hice for another term. Duncan said he'd build GOP 2.0, an effort to heal a damaged party through empathy and respect. And Gov. Brian Kemp faces a pesky primary challenge from recent GOP convert Vernon Jones, who has made attacking the results the centerpiece of his campaign and who is openly courting a Trump endorsement.

Trump has repeatedly attacked Kemp and Raffensperger, fixating on them as contributors to his loss. Trump supporters who believe he was cheated have flowed into county and state Republican party organizations, backing GOP officers who support that position.

Georgias lieutenant governor has relatively little power in law, with senators deciding how strong they want the office to be. Miller may be more powerful as president pro tem, but might be able to use support among Republican senators to amass strength in the office.

___

Follow Jeff Amy at http://twitter.com/jeffamy
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Apple has spent $1 billion of its $2.5 billion pledge to improve housing access in California, with money going to assist first-time home buyers, fund new affordable homes and help the homeless.

The Cupertino tech giant said Wednesday it has helped thousands of first-time home buyers and aided tenants at risk of losing their homes during the pandemic across 25 counties.

Californias communities have shown their resilience in the face of immense challenges this past year. As we look to a brighter future ahead, Apple is committed to continuing our work with partners across the state to support these communities and help combat the housing crisis in meaningful ways, Kristina Raspe, Apple vice president of global real estate and facilities, said in a statement.

The majority of the $1 billion in funding has gone to fund down-payment and mortgage assistance for first-time buyers and to fund new affordable housing projects through the California Housing Finance Agency, the state entity that provides low-interest loans.

The company has also contributed funds to homeless nonprofit Destination: Home and Housing Trust Silicon Valley. Apple eventually plans to contribute a total of $200 million to the two groups.

Apple

San Jose resident Alma Rodriguez lost her job as a house cleaner during the pandemic and received financial support from Destination: Homes Homelessness Prevention System, which helped her pay rent and pay for other expenses like internet service for her three sons remote learning. She recently started a new job.

Once the pandemic hit, it was very hard to provide for my family, and every dollar meant a lot to me. When I found out about receiving the support I couldnt believe it  without that help we would have lost our internet and so much more, Rodriguez said in a statement.

Jennifer Loving, CEO of Destination: Home, said more corporate and philanthropic support is needed.

While many in our community are seeing their lives return to normal, the most vulnerable among us are struggling just to keep a roof over their heads ... with the level of need greater than ever, we need more corporate and philanthropic partners to step up and help us tackle this growing threat to our community, she said in a statement.

Apple has also committed funding to 10 affordable housing projects in the Bay Area totaling more than 800 units, including the 30-unit Veterans Square in Pittsburg, which will include homes for homeless veterans.

In 2019, the company previously pledged to create $1 billion affordable housing fund in partnership with the state, provide $1 billion for home buyer assistance and use land valued at $300 million for affordable housing.

Google and Facebook each have committed $1 billion to local housing efforts.

Roland Li is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: roland.li@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @rolandlisf
AUSTIN, Texas  Texas capital has long been a tech pioneer, starting in the 1960s with IBM and Texas Instruments. In 1984, a University of Texas at Austin student named Michael Dell launched his PC company, which would become one of the largest computer manufacturers. But the rise of social media and mobile phones was concentrated in Silicon Valley, cementing the West Coast as the worlds biggest tech hub.

Now, Austin is striving to win the next era of tech.

A year after the pandemic canceled its signature tech and arts conference, SXSW, the city has gone from a harbinger of the crisis to one of its biggest winners, according to local businesses and economic data.

Austin has regained 97% of its lost jobs from spring 2020, according to the Austin Chamber of Commerce. Unemployment was a seasonally adjusted 4.6% in May, down from a pandemic peak of around 12% in April 2020. Company relocations added 12,421 new jobs last year, a record high. The housing market is one of the hottest in the country, with demand soaring from out-of-state arrivals. Studies show there wasnt a California exodus to Texas, but Austin has benefited from company expansions and tech migration.

As Austin gained, the Bay Area lost. LinkedIn user data shows Austin had the highest net inflow of tech workers of any major U.S. city from May 2020 to April 2021, gaining 217 people for every 10,000 users. The Bay Area saw the biggest drop, losing 80 tech workers for every 10,000 users.

I didnt think it could have grown any faster. And then somehow it did, said Joshua Baer, CEO of Austin tech incubator Capital Factory. COVID-19 broke a dam that was holding back thousands of even more people who were thinking about moving but held back by their job or other obligations.

There were some big winners and some big losers in the COVID migration, and Austin was the biggest winner, he said.

Capital Factory works with about 120 new startups each year, and more than 20% of them are founded by ex-Californians, a percentage thats growing, Baer said.

As they did in the Bay Area, tech giants are transforming Austins cityscape. Google leased a giant sail-shaped tower under construction on the banks of the Colorado River, designed by the same architect as Salesforce Tower in San Francisco. Apple is building a second campus in North Austin. After sparring with Alameda County health officials during the pandemic, Tesla announced its next Gigafactory east of Austin with 5,000 workers, which is rising swiftly.

Ilana Panich-Linsman / Special to The Chronicle

Veterans of California tech are finding success in Austin. Tinder co-founder Whitney Wolfe Herd moved from Southern California to Austin in 2014 and started the female-focused dating app Bumble, which went public in February and is now valued at $6.8 billion.

One of the pandemics biggest relocations came in December, when Silicon Valley stalwart Oracle moved its headquarters from Redwood City to a new campus in Austin after 44 years in the Bay Area. After a year of deserted streets and quiet offices across San Francisco and Silicon Valley, it was seen as another sign of the regions slipping tech dominance.

Anyone who doesnt believe that this latest departure isnt a threat to Californias economy is a business climate denier, Jim Wunderman, CEO of the Bay Area Council, a business group, said in a statement in December. California for too long has willfully ignored our awful business climate, even as weve enjoyed incredible success and prosperity.

As downtown San Francisco hopes for recovery, partying is back in Austin. About half of office workers have returned in buildings managed by security firm Kastle Systems, compared with about a fifth in San Francisco, and theyre filling bars and barbecue joints. At the start of summer, live music was blasting and young residents zipping around on scooters  another California import from startups such as Lime and Bird.

Austin is also dangling tax incentives to lure growth. Companies including Tesla, Apple and Samsung have packages from the city and Travis County worth up to tens of millions of dollars in property and payroll tax reimbursements. In contrast, the Bay Area rarely offers tax breaks to major projects and often adds fees to fund nearby transportation and affordable housing.

Veronica Briseno, Austins economic development director, said the deals are structured to push companies to give community benefits. The city offers more incentive points for companies that adopt policies such as paid sick leave and working with minority-owned and women-owned vendors. Briseno also noted that the city has fewer incentive agreements compared with other Texas cities.

The City Council, which signs off on deals, doesnt just offer anything to any company. They want to make sure if the company is embracing our community values, she said.

For all of Austins wins, few think it will eclipse Silicon Valley. Its not a zero-sum game, at least not for us, Baer said. Silicon Valley is not going to go away, either.

Californias economy has defied the doomsday scenarios at the beginning of the pandemic. A projected $54 billion budget deficit in May 2020 has flipped into a $75.7 billion surplus, with an additional $27 billion in federal aid to spend.

A key part has been the boom of the tech industry, which has seen Silicon Valleys biggest tech giants top $1 trillion market capitalization. Blockbuster initial public offerings from San Franciscos Airbnb and DoorDash also swelled the states coffers.

Ilana Panich-Linsman / Special to The Chronicle

Even as tech giants Google and Apple expand with new Austin campuses, theyre investing more on the West Coast, too. Google plans to invest $1 billion in California real estate this year, and Apple signed the biggest Bay Area lease of the pandemic in May with a Sunnyvale expansion.

As investors hunt for the next unicorn, Austin lagged behind seven other regions for venture capital deals in 2020. Deal activity totaled $2.3 billion compared with the Bay Areas top spot of $61.5 billion and Los Angeles $19.3 billion, according to PitchBook, a research firm.

But for someone trying to start a new company, Austin is becoming more attractive, said Ryan Broderick, an early executive at DoorDash. He left the Bay Area for Austin in 2018, becoming co-founder of real estate startup Darwin Homes, which focuses on single-family rental housing. The move made sense geographically, because the company wanted to focus on more affordable housing markets.

Back in 2018, hiring was a challenge in Austin.

In the early days, it was not on par with the Bay Area, to be very honest. But I think that is now quickly changing. he said. Theres more talent moving every day.

The widespread adoption of remote work has also enabled Darwin to hire more broadly. About a third of the companys 60 employees are in Austin, while the others are remote.

In the past six months, about 10 of Brodericks former DoorDash colleagues have also moved to Austin. The lack of state income tax was a plus, but the vibrant startup culture was also a big draw, Broderick said.

The advantage of being in Silicon Valley near venture capital firms is also fading, he said.

Ilana Panich-Linsman / Special to The Chronicle

Almost all of our capital has come from the Bay Area. We just tapped our network. They didnt really care where we were starting our business or where we were, he said.

I can imagine if you were starting a business in Austin with no network two years ago, it might have been a little more challenging, but today I dont see that as an issue at all, he said. I think a lot of deals are getting done here by West Coast firms.

Previously, Broderick had resisted leaving California because he believed it would limit his opportunities.

I always thought there was a trade-off on my career. And I was never willing to make that, so I was tied to the Bay Area, he said. I dont feel like those trade-offs exist now. And thats the biggest thing thats unlocking these other places. I can still pursue the same career path. And I dont need to be tied to the Bay Area. That has changed the calculus. And I think Austin is the No. 1 benefiter of that kind of change.

I would not say that someones going to replace the Bay Area, he said. I think youre just going to see more and more success stories coming out of new cities.

Roland Li is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: roland.li@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @rolandlisf
The city of Berkeley is dropping its objections to a University of California construction project on the northeast edge of campus and to continued increases in UC Berkeley enrollment in exchange for $82.64 million over the next 16 years to cover the citys added costs in police and fire safety and other services.

In the settlement, Berkeley also agreed to withdraw lawsuits over the universitys plans for student housing at Peoples Park and the 750-bed Anchor House project on the northwest side of campus, to a beach volleyball facility for women at the Clark Kerr campus, six blocks southeast of the main campus, and to UCs long-range development plan that projects 48,200 students by 2036, an increase of more than 5,000.

In addition to the payments, the city said, the university agreed to improve streets and provide other services for residents within a half-mile of the construction project at Hearst and La Loma avenues, to comply with city zoning standards and to engage in collaborative planning for future projects in the city.

The text of the settlement will not be disclosed publicly until the UC Board of Regents votes on final approval July 22. Berkeleys City Council approved the agreement in a closed-door session Tuesday night and has not disclosed how council members voted.

The agreement will enable the city to continue to provide quality city services and maintain the character of its neighborhoods while extending UCs renowned education to the next generation of students, Mayor Jesse Arreguin said in a statement. UC Berkeley Chancellor Carol Christ said the settlement would provide housing that students need while promoting cooperation with the city.

But the settlement is not binding on neighborhood groups that have filed their own suits over UC construction plans and enrollment increases.

Were not dropping our opposition, said Arlene Silk, a leader of a community group called Berkeley Citizens for a Better Plan. Noting that Berkeley has estimated its costs from university projects at $21 million a year, four times the amount of the settlement, Silk said, UC has bought off one antagonist cheaply but it wont be able to buy off all of them.

But Arreguin said in an interview that while the agreement doesnt fully cover the citys expenses, its still one of the largest settlements a UC campus has provided with a host city. And he said Berkeley is not giving up its right to sue the university, only to drop its objections to certain projects.

Other community groups, including Save Berkeleys Neighborhoods, are not withdrawing their suit over the volleyball facility, said attorney Michael Lozeau. The suit, filed in 2019, contends the complex, which would include four courts, field lights and a public address system, would be too loud and bright for the neighborhood and should have been subjected to an environmental review.

The settlement resolved the citys lawsuit over plans to replace a UC parking garage at Hearst and La Loma with a classroom building for graduate students and a housing structure.

Alameda County Superior Court Judge Brad Seligman refused to dismiss the suit last Friday and said UC Berkeleys environmental review of the construction had failed to consider its impact on city-funded police and fire services as well as traffic and air pollution.

Seligman also said the university, in a new environmental review, must consider limitations on enrollment as a possible means of reducing the physical and financial effects of its plans on the city.

The judge noted that the environmental report the university filed with the state in 2005 projected that its enrollment at Berkeley would level off sometime before 2020, when it would be about 33,450. Instead, enrollment has risen steadily, with 42,347 students as of last fall, according to university officials.

Similarly, a state appeals court ruled in June 2020 that Save Berkeleys Neighborhoods could sue UC Berkeley for allegedly failing to consider the long-term impacts on the community of rising enrollment, including increased use of off-campus housing by students that displaces low-income residents and adds to homelessness.

Christ, the campus chancellor, told reporters Wednesday that limiting enrollment was not a realistic option. She said UC Berkeley had 112,000 applications for admission to its 6,000-member freshman class last year.

What we hear from the Legislature is a real urgency about (the need for) more places generally in the University of California, and more specifically some of the most highly competitive places like Berkeley, UCLA and UC San Diego, Christ said. What each campus must decide, she said, is how can we accommodate the extraordinary demand for places?

Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @BobEgelko
As California shuts down its remaining juvenile prisons, a new report says Black youths in the state were nine times as likely to be incarcerated as whites, a disparity that was twice the national average.

Overall, the rates of confinement for white and non-white juveniles nationwide have become slightly more equal than they were in the past, but racial minorities are still far more likely to be locked up than whites, said the Sentencing Project, a nonprofit that advocates for reduced imprisonment. The study was based on data from October 2019.

Nationally, the report said, Black youths were 4.4 times as likely as whites to be held in juvenile prisons or detention centers, residential treatment homes or youth camps, down from five times as likely in 2015. For every 100,000 Black juveniles in the population, 315 were held in confinement, compared to 72 per 100,000 for whites and 114 per 100,000 for the overall population.

In California, the report said, the rates were 433 Black youths incarcerated for every 100,000 in the population and 48 white youths per 100,000. That 9-to-1 ratio, while marginally less than Californias rate in 2015, was the fifth-highest differential of any state, with New Jerseys 17.5-to-1 disparity the highest.

The differences were less for Latino and Latina youths, the report said. Nationally, they were confined at a rate of 92 per 100,000 of the population in 2019 and were 1.3 times as likely to be held as white youths. The California confinement rate was 113 per 100,000, or 2.4 times the incarceration rate for whites. Since 2011, the report said, the incarceration rate for Latinos and Latinas has dropped by about one-third nationwide, and by 11% in California.

American Indian youths were 3.3 times as likely to be incarcerated as white youths nationwide, and 4.4 times as likely in California, the report said.

The disparities are similar to those in Californias adult prisons. As of 2017, according to a study by the Public Policy Institute of California, Black men were imprisoned at 10 times the rate of white men, based on their share of the states population, and Black women were imprisoned at five times the rate of white women. The disparities were about 3-to-1 for Latinos and Latinas.

The report on juveniles in California was based on confinement rates and not on the level of actual incarceration, which has declined dramatically.

In the past two decades, the number of juveniles held in state facilities has plummeted from 10,000 to about 700, due largely to a 2007 state law that limited the reasons a youth could be sent to state confinement and required most young offenders to be held in county facilities closer to home.

And on July 1, Gov. Gavin Newsoms administration stopped sending youths to state juvenile prisons, leaving them under county supervision. The state Division of Juvenile Justice is scheduled to halt operations in two years, and the three remaining juvenile prisons will close down after the last current inmates turn 25.

Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com
Tom Bauer/Associated Press

A DNA sample confirmed that the grizzly bear killed by Montana wildlife officials last week was the same bear that killed a Northern California woman who was camping near a rural town.

The woman, 61-year-old Leah Lokan of Chico, was on a bicycle camping trip and sleeping alone in her tent when she was attacked and killed by the bear. Wildlife officials later set up a trap at a chicken coop near the scene of the attack and captured the grizzly bear.
When a Palo Alto high school student didnt wear his mask on the first day of summer school this month, he was sent to the office.

But the student has a speech-related disability that makes it hard for him to pronounce certain sounds and letters clearly  and also means he cannot wear a mask safely, according to a lawsuit filed against the Palo Alto Unified School District by the students father, A.J. Gokcek.

But the school district didnt budge, according to the suit, saying that there wasnt enough medical evidence to support an exemption.

Now, the students family is suing the school district, demanding that school officials provide access to on-campus learning  without a face mask.

What are students who cant wear a mask supposed to do? Are public schools closed to them? Gokcek said. I just want my son to get an education like every other student.

As of Tuesday, schools are required to provide alternative educational opportunities for students who refuse to wear a face covering, according to the California Department of Public Health. But when Gokceks son started summer school, that rule was not yet in place.

Before the summer school term started, the student, referred to only as T.G. in the complaint, sent the summer school principal two emails  one asking if he could attend class virtually, and the other asking if he could earn his summer credits online through a high school outside Palo Alto Unified School district rather than seek a mask exemption. He was told no on both counts, the lawsuit said.

Then his father  who is also the attorney on the case  asked if the district could grant his son an exception to the mask rule, which the district says it does on a case-by-case basis. After a back-and-forth with different district officials, who recommended that the father seek an assessment with the school nurse, the request was denied, according to the lawsuit.

But the family did not seek an assessment with the nurse, both the school district and Gokcek confirmed.

Still, when summer school started a few days later on July 6, T.G. did not wear a mask. Thats when he was sent to the principals office.

The lawsuit alleges that the exemptions listed in the California Department of Public Healths guidance on masks in schools should include the students condition. The school district disagrees.

The father was offered numerous opportunities to work with the staff, like families have done for the last year and a half. His son does not have ... any documentation of a qualifying disability, Don Austin, the superintendent for the school district, said in a written statement.

But Gokcek said that he wanted to see a written policy from the school about mask exemptions before he sent over any sensitive information about his son, rather than just deference to the state guidelines. He also said that state guidelines dont say anything about providing documentation or a doctors note.

We could have discussed many options, but the father is simply against masking, Austin said, adding that the father also refused to comply with mask requirements for his family in the stands at his other childs eighth-grade graduation in June.

Gokcek said that he has the same communication disability as his son, and that the exemption he wanted at the graduation was only for the two of them, not for the whole family. He said that he was invoking (his) rights by not wearing a mask, adding that the ceremony was outdoors and that many families didnt wear masks.

The student has predominately honors and AP classes, Austin added. We expect people unhappy with masking laws to file lawsuits across the state and country. This lawsuit seems misdirected.

The lawsuit comes against the backdrop of tumultuous state guidance on masks in schools.

Updated California guidelines posted on Monday  one week after this lawsuit was filed  ordered schools to exclude students from campus if they refuse to wear a face covering. But after public outcry, officials removed the line on Tuesday, adding the requirement for alternative education options instead.

The original wording was made in error, said Alex Stack, a spokesperson for Gov. Gavin Newsom. The guidance was updated to allow for schools to continue enforcing the mask mandate as they have done for the past year while also being able to provide independent study options for students who refuse to wear a mask.

Californias school mask requirement differs from guidance provided by the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which advised that vaccinated students and staff could stop wearing masks at school.

For their part, schools are doing their best to keep up with the rules from the state.

PAUSD, like all school districts, is following the rules set at the state and county levels by health professionals, Austin wrote. We have followed the rules from Day One and will continue to follow them in the future. If the rules change at some point in time, we will follow immediately.

Meanwhile, Gokcek said his son was dropped from the summer school class, which might put him behind for graduation. Hes now focused on getting the mask exemption for the fall, saying that he just wants his son to be back in the classroom with everyone else rather than whatever take the alternative thats required by the state.

Well accept the risk that comes with their son not wearing a mask, Gokcek said, emphasizing that its a medical issue, not just a refusal to comply. If he has to wear a mask, hell never speak again.

Danielle Echeverria is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: danielle.echeverria@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @DanielleEchev
A firearms group says San Joses plan to require gun owners to buy insurance and pay fees to cover the costs of gun violence to the city is unconstitutional and will be challenged in court unless it is withdrawn.

The proposed ordinance is a discriminatory tax that singles out citizens exercising their constitutional rights to possess firearms, lawyers for the National Foundation for Gun Rights said Wednesday in a letter to Mayor Sam Liccardo and City Council members.

In response, Liccardo said in a statement, In the realm of sensible gun regulation, the gun industry and their lawyers ensure that no good deed goes unlitigated.

The City Council voted unanimously June 28 to draft an ordinance that would order gun owners in San Jose to obtain insurance and pay an annual fee to subsidize police responses, ambulances, medical treatment and other municipal expenses related to shootings, injuries and deaths. It would be the first such law in the nation.

Liccardo said that the annual fee would probably amount to a couple dozen dollars and that insurance companies have advised the city that including gun coverage in their policies would add little or nothing to premium costs. A preliminary research report commissioned by the city has estimated that gun-related homicides, suicides and other shootings cost San Jose agencies and taxpayers $63 million a year.

The ordinance would authorize police who encounter gun owners to confiscate their weapons if they lack proof of insurance or payment of fees. It is a response to the deadliest mass shooting in Bay Area history, the killings of nine co-workers on May 26 by Samuel Cassidy, a 57-year-old worker at the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority light rail yard in San Jose. Cassidy then took his own life.

In a statement accompanying Wednesdays letter to the council, the gun groups executive director, Dudley Brown, called the proposed law a full-frontal assault on lawful gun owners by the gun control zealots running the city of San Jose. The letter from the groups attorneys compared the proposal to Englands 1765 Stamp Act, which taxed newspapers and legal documents in the American colonies.

Anticipating legal challenges, Liccardo has said the city should not spend any proceeds from the fees until the legality of the ordinance is decided in court.

Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @BobEgelko
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Outdoor restaurant spaces that sprouted up during the COVID-19 pandemic are here to stay. That's good for the restaurants and their customers, but advocates for the disabled, the elderly and the homeless, and those who believe San Francisco is fighting an unproductive war on cars, aren't so thrilled. On this episode of Fifth & Mission, reporter Mallory Moench joins Dominic Fracassa to talk about the reaction from businesses and groups affected by the popular fixtures.
At least two people died in the plane crash that shocked a quiet gated community in Monterey on Tuesday, according to multiple reports.

The plane  a twin-engine Cessna 421  crashed into a residence in the Monterra Ranch neighborhood around 10:40 a.m. Tuesday. Authorities confirmed that no one was home at the time of the crash, but few additional details were officially confirmed about the incident some 24 hours after it occurred.

Though authorities have not officially identified either victim, the families of Mary Ellen Carlin, the pilot, and passenger Alice Diane Emig confirmed in multiple reports that neither woman survived the crash.

Folsom resident Richard Bolton told The Chronicle on Wednesday that Emig, his aunt, was the passenger on board the plane and had died.

Emig, 61, who worked as a food service worker at a high school, was reportedly onboard with her dog. Bolton said that Emig had decided to take a last-minute flight to Sacramento after visiting her mother in Monterey.

In an interview with the Monterey Herald, David Carlin said that the pilot of the plane was his mother, Carlin, 74, who owned the plane and was flying with a friend that morning. The plane was registered to ME Mullaly Inc., a company owned by Carlin, who is a resident of Pacific Grove and a flight instructor.

Carlin was reportedly a friend of Emigs mother, Bolton said.

Derrel Simpson, commander of professional standards with the Monterey County Sheriffs Office, confirmed that the coroner had only arrived at the scene of the crash Wednesday, and no bodies were recovered or fatalities confirmed yet.

The only Cessna 421 to depart the Monterey regional airport Tuesday was heading toward the Salinas Municipal Airport, according to the flight-tracking website FlightAware.

Calls to Carlins family members and neighbors were not returned by Wednesday.

During a press briefing Wednesday, Eric Gutierrez, a spokesperson with the National Transportation Safety Board, confirmed that it had been reported that two people were on board during takeoff, but would not confirm the conditions of the individuals.

The plane crashed shortly after taking off from the airport. The incident also sparked a house fire, which spread into the area beyond the house that was later contained.

Annie Vainshtein is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: avainshtein@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @annievain
Rafe Swan/Getty Image

San Bruno police arrested a Northern California woman on suspicion of possessing narcotics for sale and seized roughly 65,000 potentially fatal doses of fentanyl, a deadly opioid, police said.

Police said they contacted the Anderson (Shasta County) woman  whose name was not released  shortly after 9:30 p.m. Monday in the area of El Camino Real and Kains Avenue in San Bruno. Police said they found her with more than 4.5 ounces of fentanyl, which authorities said equates to roughly 65,000 potentially lethal doses of the drug. Two milligrams of fentanyl can be lethal.
Gabrielle Lurie/The Chronicle

Public health officials in two Northern California counties urged residents this week to wear face-coverings indoors amid a spike in COVID-19 cases associated with the highly infectious delta variant.

Sacramento Countys health department pleaded with residents Thursday to mask up while indoors in public spaces. Even fully vaccinated people should wear masks inside in settings where vaccination verification is not required and the vaccination status of others is unknown.
A Napa homeopathic doctor was arrested Wednesday for allegedly selling what she claimed was a COVID-19 antibody treatment and fake vaccination cards, according to federal authorities.

Juli A. Mazi, 41, allegedly sold immunization pellets to patients, claiming it would provide lifelong immunity to COVID-19, and give customers fake vaccination cards with instructions on how to falsify they received two shots of the Moderna vaccine, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Federal authorities said Mazi is the first to face criminal charges related to fake COVID-19 vaccination cards and what are known as homeoprophylaxis immunizations. Shes facing charges of wire fraud and false statements related to health.

An individual submitted a complaint to the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General in April saying their family bought pellets from Mazi and received the fraudulent immunization cards.

Mazi allegedly encouraged patients to buy the pellets by telling them that the FDA-authorities vaccines contained toxic ingredients, authorities said. She would also tell customers that they can give the homeoprophylaxis pellets to children and babies, authorities said.

COVID-19 vaccines authorized for use by federal drug and health officials have been deemed safe and effective.

This defendant allegedly defrauded and endangered the public by preying on fears and spreading misinformation about FDA-authorized vaccinations, while also peddling fake treatments that put peoples lives at risk, Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco said in a statement.

Mazi also allegedly offered homeoprophylaxis vaccines for childhood illnesses that she falsely claimed would satisfy the immunization requirements for California schools, and falsified immunization cards that were submitted by parents to California schools, authorities said.

This doctor violated the all-important trust the public extends to healthcare professionals  at a time when integrity is needed the most, Steven J. Ryan of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General said in a statement.

An attempt to reach Mazis office by phone was unsuccessful.

Jessica Flores is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jessica.flores@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @jesssmflores
Before the pandemic, popular Berkeley tapas bar La Marcha never offered takeout or delivery  and in fact, co-owner Sergio Emilio Monleon was staunchly opposed to putting his Spanish food into to-go boxes. He believed his paellas and tapas were meant to be eaten in the restaurant.

The coronavirus completely changed that. In the last month, Monleon has launched three virtual spinoffs at a San Francisco ghost kitchen, buoyed by the success of the pandemic takeout operation at La Marcha. He came up with two new concepts during the shutdown when restaurants couldnt serve diners in person, and the appeal of launching them at once from a ghost kitchen in a new market was obvious.

La Marcha Express, Croqueta Burger and Ibexico are all located at an Uber CloudKitchens in SoMa. La Marcha Express is a takeout-only replicate of the Berkeley original, while the latter two are new fusion menus. All three offer pickup and delivery out of 60 Morris St.

Ibexico, the newest of the three projects, marries Monleons Spanish and Mexican-American roots. There are patatas bravas, the iconic crispy potato dish, turned into cheese-covered nachos, and shrimp paella with saffron bomba rice in burrito form. Spanish croquetas get the fusion treatment with fillings like birria and Monleons maternal grandmothers recipe for chicken mole poblano. The name of the restaurant merges Mexico with Iberica, which refers to the Spanish Iberian Peninsula.

Monleon, who opened La Marcha in 2015, hasnt always been so willing to dive into fusion food. He internalized his Spanish grandmothers strict definition of paella as the Valencian dish with rabbit, snail, chicken and duck  but over the years, said hes gradually felt more free to break the rules. The paella burrito, for example, was inspired by late-night staff meals La Marcha employees would make with leftover paella. The croqueta burger  fried potato croquettes stuffed with fillings like Dungeness crab and manchego cheese, served on Acme Bakery buns  was originally created for La Marchas pandemic takeout menu.

Adahlia Cole

Ghost kitchens took off during the pandemic with demand for delivery skyrocketing and many Bay Area restaurants looking for ways to shore up their bottom lines while their dining rooms were closed. Local restaurants of all kinds, from China Live and Dosa to Brendas French Soul Food, expanded into virtual kitchens in 2020. At the SoMa ghost kitchen, La Marcha shares space with Mama Liangs, a Cupertino Taiwanese restaurant, and Tigers BBQ, a Filipino barbecue spot, among others.

But Monleon, for his part, isnt ruling out the possibility of opening Ibexico and Croqueta Burger restaurants down the line.

Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more.

Well see if consumer demands shift or stay, he said, and try to match those demands.

Meanwhile, La Marcha is back to serving pans of paella in person  as well as for takeout and delivery.

Croqueta Burger, Ibexico and La Marcha Express, 4-9 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. Delivery and takeout only. 60 Morris St., San Francisco.

Elena Kadvany is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: elena.kadvany@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ekadvany
Diners who frequent Refuge in San Mateo, a popular pastrami restaurant that opened in late June, might have noticed a new charge on their checks: a 2% wellness fee.

At the bottom of the restaurants menu is a notice that the fee will be added to all checks to compensate (for) high labor cost in the Bay.

Refuge is among restaurants across the Bay Area  and the country  that are tacking on new fees as they come out of the pandemic. They say the fees are needed to pay more to attract workers during an ongoing labor shortage, afford skyrocketing food costs and to generally make restaurant jobs more sustainable.

Although replacing tipping with automatic service charges is already gaining momentum, some of these new fees are in addition to an expectation to tip. Pinstripes, a restaurant and bowling alley near Refuge at Hillsdale Shopping Center in San Mateo, is also charging a 3% wellness fee to offset the stringent safety standards and practices put in place during the pandemic, said Don Hoffman, chief marketing officer. At San Franciscos Che Fico Alimentari, the aim of a new 10% dining-in charge, owners say, is to provide a living wage for the staff.

Laurie Thomas, executive director of the Golden Gate Restaurant Association, said shes heard of more local restaurants adding surcharges or service fees to help cover increased costs.

I think everyone is trying to figure out what works in order to keep the lights on and in order to be able to pay employees more, she said.

Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle

Refuge co-owner Matt Levin said the new wellness fee was spurred by the fact that he, like most local restaurateurs, is struggling to find workers. Hes paying 15% to 20% more than he did pre-pandemic to those he can hire  many of whom are working two or three jobs and commuting from as far away as Modesto. Refuge also offers 401(k) plans and paid time off, and its putting together a health insurance package.

Many restaurants are raising wages to stay operational. Chipotle recently increased prices by about 4% to cover the cost of higher wages. According to a recent survey by job-hunting website Joblist, 39% of former hospitality workers said they would return to those jobs for higher pay, and 23% want more benefits. In the Bay Area, the high cost of living continues to be a significant factor for workers, Levin said.

If someones going to work here, if were going to lure them to work on the Peninsula, were going to have to pay for it, he said. Going out to eat right now, it is a premium experience to go to a sit-down restaurant with human beings serving you.

Levin decided to implement the fee first in San Mateo, which at $15.62 per hour has the highest minimum wage among the three cities where he operates. But he plans to also roll it out at his locations in Menlo Park and San Carlos.

We have to do something because theres hardly any (profit) left over, honestly, he said. Its a constant juggling act.

The cost of food is also going up, including basics such as dairy, meat and vegetable oil. Global food prices have increased every month for the last year, according to Reuters. In the past two months, the cost of pastrami has gone up by more than $1 per pound, Levin said. To compensate would mean increasing the price of Refuges sandwiches, which cost $19.95, by about $4. Its raised prices by about 5 to 10 cents here and there, Levin said, but has largely absorbed the added costs.

Owners say raising menu prices rather than adding a fee risks alienating customers and losing them to other restaurants. Some restaurateurs who experimented with raising menu prices say they received complaints from clientele.

Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle

Melissa Axelrod, owner of Mockingbird in Oakland, is debating adding a 20% service charge when she reopens her restaurant this fall. Before the coronavirus, Mockingbird charged a 2% health care fee, which meant she could cover half of the monthly health insurance premium and dental insurance for employees who opted in. In 2019, this translated to spending about $145 to $250 per employee per month, she said.

Now, shes considering reinstating a similar fee or initiating a service-included model that would raise menu prices. Neither feels optimal.

Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more.

Its not ideal to put all these fees on the bill. I feel like the sticker shock of including it all in the price, with everything going up now, also doesnt work, she said. It doesnt seem like theres a good way to actually cover these costs.

When Mama reopened in Oakland in June, the restaurant got rid of tips and switched to a 20% service charge and raised prices slightly. The prix fixe menu now costs $34.95 per person, up from $29.95 when Mama opened in 2019. But that still didnt sufficiently cover costs, according to co-owner Stevie Stacionis. The owners also instituted an additional 5% health mandate fee to help cover full benefits and paid time off for full-time employees. Health, vision and dental insurance costs the restaurant about $400 per employee each month.

The name of Mamas new fee is in part a rebuff of the city of Oakland, which unlike San Francisco does not have a health mandate, which requires any business with more than 20 employees to set aside money for its workers health care.

Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle

In an area like the Bay, given the cost of living and the cost of rent, its damn near impossible for a well-intentioned restaurant, like I hope we are, to cover our costs at all and take appropriate care of our teams, Stacionis said.

The pandemic accelerated conversations among Mamas owners around fair pay and support for staff. The new fee, Stacionis said, is an experiment in asking customers to help make jobs there more viable.

So far, most customers have been curious but understanding about the new fees, both Levin and Stacionis said.

Were trying to be transparent about what it takes to have places like ours survive and have the people (who) work in places like ours survive, Stacionis said.

Elena Kadvany is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: elena.kadvany@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ekadvany
Silicon Valley is getting a high-end seafood restaurant with an Atelier Crenn alum at the helm.

One Fish Raw Bar, at 193 East Campbell Ave. in Campbell, is the brainchild of chef Trent Lidgey, who said the restaurants seafood-heavy menu will feature plenty of caviar at all times, a sashimi tasting counter and a dedicated section for oysters.

Set to open in August or early September, the restaurant will feature plenty of composed seafood dishes building on Lidgeys fine-dining experience, which also includes stints at upscale Los Gatos restaurant the Lexington House and acclaimed Boston sushi restaurant Uni.

Expect dishes with international touches, like spot prawns wrapped in shiso leaves; hamachi crudo with pineapple nuoc cham, the Vietnamese staple dipping sauce; and house-cured San Francisco Bay anchovies served with roasted garlic aioli and pan Viennoise, the baguette-like Austrian bread.

Trent Lidgey

At One Fish, menu items will change daily based on whats available, Lidgey said. More casual lunch dishes will include lobster rolls and kale salad. Vegetarians will have dishes to choose from, too, such as spiced carrots with a chimichurri sauce and cactus ceviche with aji amarillo peppers.

Accompanying the food is a wine list that will highlight low intervention wines from small producers around the world, both classic and new school, Lidgey said.

Campbell is home to sushi restaurants and a more casual oyster bar, but higher-end seafood restaurants are few and far between.

Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more.

Lidgey wanted to fill that void with One Fish. He fell in love with Japanese fish butchery during his time at Bostons Uni, where he worked in the sashimi section of the kitchen. Aside from his time working as a sous-chef at Atelier Crenn  which also has a seafood focus  Lidgey periodically hosted sashimi pop-ups at Lexington House and other South Bay restaurants. All of that experience has now primed him for his first solo project.

One Fish Raw Bar, 193 East Campbell Ave., Campbell. Opening late summer 2021. onefishcampbell.com

Elena Kadvany is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: elena.kadvany@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ekadvany
True Champagne comes only from Russia, according to Vladimir Putin.

The Russian president recently signed a law that forbids wines from the French wine region of Champagne to be labeled as Champagne  or, rather, shampanskoye, the Russian translation  if they are imported into his country. Those French bottles must be labeled simply as "sparkling wine" instead. Only Russian-produced shampanskoye, Putin declared, can retain the vaunted shampanskoye name, apparently an attempt to boost these domestic producers' sales.

If you're not an outraged French winemaker, the whole kerfuffle might strike you as very funny, a characteristically absurd move by Putin. It would be one thing if Putin were simply allowing Russian wineries to call their bottles Champagne. But to forbid actual Champagne from calling itself Champagne? It's as if he said soda could only be called Coca-Cola if it's made in Russia.

Obviously, winemakers in Champagne aren't laughing so hard. "We will unfailingly support our producers and French excellence," France's trade minister tweeted, vowing to fight the new rule. And the truth is, there is a serious element to this conflict. What happens to the name Champagne has implications for wines all over the world. Regions in our own backyard, like Napa and Sonoma, have benefited in major ways from the protections that Champagne has won for its own name.

For example: Since 2000, California state law has required that any wine whose label that uses the word "Napa" must actually be made from grapes grown in Napa County (or, at least, 75% from Napa Valley). Before this, the coveted Napa name had been vulnerable to plagiarism, with players putting Napa on the labels of wines grown in places like the Central Valley, capitalizing on Napa's prestige without having to pay a Napa premium for grapes. Bronco Wine Co., the maker of Two Buck Chuck and other inexpensive wines, tried to challenge the law, appealing it all the way up to the Supreme Court, but was ultimately unsuccessful.

Without the aggressive marketing campaign that Champagne's industry had been waging since the 19th century, the groundwork for a law like that in California might never have been established. Long before I cared at all about wine  long before I was of drinking age  I had somehow absorbed the message that Champagne comes only from Champagne. I can remember seeing full-page magazine ads when I was a teenager to that effect (apparently, they were ubiquitous for a time).

The Champagne Committee, the group that represents the wine region's interests, has an amazingly strong track record of getting businesses and governments to stop using the word Champagne erroneously  everything from an Yves Saint Laurent perfume to a French cigarette to an iPhone color to a toilet brush.

Putin is no stranger to making international provocations (the annexation of Crimea comes to mind). But I'm not sure he knows what he is up against, now that he has invoked the ire of the Champagne Committee. The association has immediately gone on the defensive, threatening to involve the World Trade Organization and to stop exporting bottles to Russia. (Russia is not one of its major export markets.)

This Putin problem underscores just how tenuous those protections are, requiring the buy-in of individual countries. France depends on other governments to enforce limitations on the use of the word Champagne, and not all governments have always been dependable. It took a long time for even the U.S. to formally recognize this principle: It wasn't until 2006 that the U.S. entered into a formal agreement with the European Union to enforce the correct use of the word, along with other geographic-based European wine terms like Port, Burgundy and Chablis.

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From that point on, American bubbly had to be labeled as sparkling wine, and most American wine drinkers have now dutifully adopted that term when discussing domestically produced wines, despite the fact that "sparkling wine" sounds a lot clunkier than the snappy, glamorous-sounding "Champagne."

However, some American products that were already plastering Champagne all over their labels got grandfathered into this new rule, which is why you can still buy a bottle of "California Champagne" from Sonoma County's Korbel, or a bottle of Miller High Life, the "Champagne of beers."

I've never had a proper shampanskoye myself, so I can't speak to the Russian wines' quality. One large producer, Fanagoria, located in the Krasnodar region, appears to make sparkling wines from grape varieties like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, which are traditional in Champagne. But these similarities notwithstanding, I'm having a hard time believing that the shampanskoye can rival the likes of Krug or Cristal.

Regardless of what you call these wines, they will never taste exactly like Champagne, whose unique terroir  especially its chalky, limestone-rich soils  and whose wineries' centuries of perfecting their methods make the wines distinctive. And sparkling wine producer from other parts of the world should embrace their differences from Champagne. Italian Prosecco, California sparkling wine and other bubblies don't taste exactly like Champagne, nor should they: They've developed their own prestige, their own brands, their own followings.

Not that Putin's asking me, but here's what I'd say to him: Encourage your country's wineries to make better sparkling wine and elevate the Krasnodar name. Who knows? Maybe someday other countries will be speciously plastering "Krasnodar" all over their bottles of wine.
At least 59 residents at Sonoma Countys largest homeless shelter have tested positive for the coronavirus, with another possible 26 positive cases, county officials said on Wednesday.

Nearly half of those who tested positive were fully vaccinated, said Dr. Sundari Mase, the countys health officer.

The shelter first reported 20 positive cases July 2. Since then, more than a third of the 156 residents at Samuel L. Jones Hall in Santa Rosa have tested positive.

So far, nine of the individuals who were part of the outbreak have been hospitalized, including six who were fully vaccinated and had multiple, significant underlying health problems, officials said. Four have since been discharged, and five remain hospitalized.

We know congregate settings are at much higher risk, Mase said. We also know there is a very high proportion of unvaccinated individuals that were in this setting.

Mase and other public health officials said the fact that 28 of the 59 positive cases were in fully vaccinated individuals did not mean that the vaccines were not effective. Some of those cases may have involved very mild illness or even asymptomatic infection. In an outbreak situation with widespread illness, cases among the fully vaccinated would be expected, officials said.

Mase said most of the vaccinated residents at the homeless shelter had received the single-shot Johnson & Johnson dose, but she did not know if that was a factor in the outbreak.

She said it is also not clear if the highly contagious delta variant played a role.

Sonoma County has seen a sharp rise in cases since California reopened its economy and scaled back most of its pandemic restrictions on June 15.

Our case rates have doubled for the past month, Mase said.

There have been 68 sequenced delta variant cases in the county as of July 9. The positive test rate is up to 3.1% and the 7-day average of new daily cases is now 5.8 per 100,000 residents, according to county data. Under the states retired reopening blueprint, Sonoma County would fall back into the orange tier.

The county also registered five COVID-19 deaths since the reopening date, including that of a 45-year-old county resident.

Mase said the uptick in cases is concerning, and most of the new infections can be traced to young people who are unvaccinated. She said gatherings are also playing a role in driving up the countys infection rate.

The countys data dashboard now separates new cases by vaccination status. There are about 2 new cases per 100,000 residents a day among the fully vaccinated population and 13 new cases per 100,000 among the unvaccinated.

Hospitalizations remain stable.

We're not seeing the worst outcomes, which is a good thing, said Paul Gullixson, communications manager for Sonoma County.

Officials said that people at the Samuel L. Jones Hall are screened for COVID-19 symptoms before they are admitted and that many safety protocols, including masking, remain in place.

But the shelter does not require residents to be vaccinated.

We cannot force anyone to get vaccinated, said Jennielynn Holmes of Catholic Charities, which manages the shelter. Our ultimate mission and goal is to provide shelter for those who are unsheltered in our community.

The county has opened an alternate care site at the Best Western Dry Creek Inn in Healdsburg to quarantine the infected.

Chronicle staff writer Erin Allday contributed to this report.

Aidin Vaziri is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: avaziri@sfchronicle.com
Los Angeles County will reinstate an indoor mask mandate for everyone, regardless of vaccination status, after seeing cases skyrocket over the past month, largely tied to spread of the highly infectious delta variant, public health officials announced Thursday.

The mandate will go into effect at 11:59 p.m. Saturday, they said.

The mandate comes after the county reported seven consecutive days with over 1,000 cases  numbers not seen since early March. The positive test rate for the county has climbed to 3.7%, an increase from 2.3% just last week.

The county began urging residents to wear masks indoors again late last month. Thursdays announcement makes Los Angeles the first county in California to restore a local mask mandate since the state dropped the requirement for vaccinated people on June 15.

This is an all hands on deck moment. We have substantial levels of community transmission, Dr. Muntu Davis, the Los Angeles County health officer, said in a news briefing Thursday afternoon.

We took a chance as a state in terms of lifting the physical distancing requirements as well as capacity limits, we changed the masking (rules), and we felt it was reasonable to do, Davis said. But this is not the same as what it was June 15. We have over 1,500 cases today. This is not the same situation, and it requires different action.

At least two other counties  Yolo and Sacramento  have encouraged all residents to begin masking indoors again.

No Bay Area counties have made similar recommendations, and none have said they expect to have to restore universal mask mandates.

Asked Thursday at a news conference about whether San Francisco might reinstate its mask mandate indoors for vaccinated people, Mayor London Breed said that the city is considering providing guidance on suggested mask (usage). ... Were looking at changes to the policy but not necessarily a mandate.

Cases have been climbing far more dramatically in Los Angeles County than in the Bay Area; theyve increased nearly fourfold over the past two weeks in Los Angeles. But Bay Area counties have seen cases more than double over the past two weeks, and health officials have increasingly urged unvaccinated residents to get their shots.

Los Angeles County currently is reporting daily new cases of about 10 to 12 per 100,000 residents  the equivalent of the purple tier under the states former color-coded blueprint. The Bay Area is reporting rates of 6 to 8 cases per 100,000 residents.

The Bay Area has generally higher vaccination rates than Los Angeles and other Southern California counties. As of last week, six Bay Area counties had fully vaccinated at least 70% of residents 12 and older who are eligible for the shots. Los Angeles County had vaccinated just under 60% of that same group.

Weve heard a lot that people got vaccinated so they wouldnt have to wear the mask. And I can appreciate that. Im thankful you got vaccinated, Davis said. This (mandate) levels the playing field. Were seeing the rates go up too high and we dont want them to go higher.

This story is developing. Check back for updates.

Erin Allday is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: eallday@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @erinallday
MOSCOW (AP)  Moscow expects the Taliban to fulfill its pledge not to threaten Russia or its allies in Central Asia, the Kremlin envoy on Afghanistan said in an interview published Wednesday.

Zamir Kabulov, who met with a Taliban delegation that visited Moscow last week, voiced confidence that the Taliban would focus on securing their gains in Afghanistan and wouldn't try to challenge the countries of the region.

"They visited Moscow to offer guarantees on behalf of the Taliban's supreme leadership that the territory of Afghanistan will not be used against the interests of third countries, Kabulov said in an interview with the state RIA-Novosti news agency. He said he previously received similar assurances from Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the co-founder of the Taliban.

The Talibans focus on fighting the Islamic State group also works in Russias interests, Kabulov said.

The Taliban fight the Islamic State, and the Taliban gains erode the foundation for any IS attacks and diversions in Central Asia, the diplomat said.

The Taliban claimed last week that it now controls 85% of Afghanistans territory after making quick gains amid the withdrawal of American troops that is set to wrap up on Aug. 31. Earlier this month, Taliban advances forced hundreds of Afghan soldiers to flee across the border into Tajikistan.

Kabulov said the retreating Afghan troops fired on the Taliban fighters after crossing into Tajikistan, but the Taliban didn't return fire.

He also said he did not expect the Taliban to take over all of Afghanistan.

They may take control of several provinces... but it wouldnt allow them to become the omnipotent rulers of Afghanistan, Kabulov said.

The Kremlin envoy acknowledged that the Islamic State group and other militant groups in Afghanistan could pose a threat to Russia's allies in Central Asia north of Afghanistan. He said Russia would work with Central Asian nations to coordinate security efforts and tighten border protection.

That would be the most impressive signal to any forces against encroaching on our security, said Kabulov, who is set to attend an international security conference in Tashkent, Uzbekistan that opens Thursday.

He predicted that Afghanistan will see intense fighting in the coming months before the Afghan government, the Taliban and other groups become ready for substantial and fruitful talks.

Both parties were preparing for the fighting for too long, and before they spend their ammunition it's hard to expect anything, the Russian diplomat said. The fighting will continue for another couple of months before a new military-political balance is established.

Kabulov said that Russia has been talking to all parties involved to encourage them to negotiate a political settlement.

Moscow, which fought a 10-year war in Afghanistan that ended with Soviet troops withdrawal in 1989, has made a diplomatic comeback as a mediator, reaching out to feuding Afghan factions and hosting several rounds of their talks.

While he criticized the results of the U.S. mission in Afghanistan, Kabulov stressed that Moscow and Washington share common interests in Afghanistan and were working closely together to help stabilize the country.

It's almost the only field where we cooperate in a fruitful way with the Americans, the envoy said.

Russia nonetheless has warned the United States against deploying its troops in the former Soviet Central Asian nations following the withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Twitter plans to open an Oakland office next year, despite allowing almost all of its employees to work from home permanently.

The social network company is exploring space in Oakland with plans to open an office in 2022, spokesperson Adrian Zamora said.

Last fall, Twitter listed 104,850 square feet for sublease at its San Francisco headquarters, joining numerous tech companies that tried to dump space as they shifted to more flexible work policies. Office vacancy rates in San Francisco shot up to 20% at the end of the second quarter, the highest level since 2003. Downtown Oakland also saw a spike, with vacancy rising to 22.7% at the end of June from 13.6% in the year prior, according to brokerage Cushman & Wakefield.

Twitter previously said it plans to keep its Market Street headquarters in San Francisco. Its Oakland expansion is evidence that companies continue to disperse their workforces around the Bay Area. Before the pandemic, many San Francisco companies relocated or expanded into lower-cost Oakland, where many of their workers live, including Blue Shield and Square, which Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey also leads.

Twitter is close to signing a lease for around 64,000 square feet at 1330 Broadway in Oakland, according to a person with knowledge of the companys plans who wasnt authorized to speak publicly. Twitter declined to comment. It would be one of the largest Oakland office leases during the pandemic.

The 18-story tower is next to the 12th Street BART station and completed renovations in 2017. It attracted new tenants, including Oracle and travel tech company Deem, which moved its headquarters from San Francisco.

In 2019, Twitter also leased space in San Joses Santana Row.

The New York Times first reported Twitters Oakland opening plans and that the company has 2,200 Bay Area workers, down slightly from 2,300 last year. The Registry, a real estate website, reported the company was looking for space in Oakland in March.

Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes

Dorsey has been an advocate for more dispersed hiring even before the pandemic.

Our concentration in San Francisco is not serving us any longer, and we will strive to be a far more distributed workforce, which we will use to improve our execution, he said in February 2020 on an earnings call.

The company was one of the first to send workers home as the pandemic escalated in the U.S. in March 2020 and later said workers could choose to stay remote forever.

Roland Li is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: roland.li@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @rolandlisf
CHP Truckee

It started with a call to California Highway Patrol around 5:30 a.m. Thursday. There was a car ablaze on Interstate 80 near the Farad off ramp by the California-Nevada border.

When officers arrived on the scene of this altogether not unusual occurrence, they found a man in his 30s yelling about "the bears," said CHP-Truckee Officer Carlos Perez.
Two women and a pet dog have been identified as the victims of a shocking plane crash into an empty Monterey home earlier this week.

Mary Ellen Carlin of Pacific Grove was likely piloting a twin-engine Cessna on Tuesday when the plane plunged into the hills near Monterey Regional Airport.

Data from FlightAware, a site that tracks planes, shows the flight departed shortly before 10:40 a.m. and was only in the air a few minutes before crashing into the Monterra Ranch neighborhood off Highway 68. Air traffic control audio obtained by KSBW indicates the flight encountered a problem immediately after takeoff. "Low altitude alert. Climb immediately," the controller says, followed by, "[the plane] is experiencing an in-flight emergency."

Also killed was Alice Diane Emig of Rancho Cordova and her dog Toby.

Carlin, the owner of the plane and a well-known local flight instructor, was planning to fly Emig from Monterey to Mather in the Sacramento area, Emig's family told KSBW. Relatives said deputies told them no one survived the crash.

Officials have not confirmed who was flying the plane, but Carlin's son, David Carlin, told the Monterey Herald that he has no doubt his mother was the pilot.

My mom flew that plane for well over a decade, he said. I want to make sure everyone knows that my mom was a great pilot. She spent tens of thousands of hours flying. She taught dozens of students over the years. Shes kind of a legend.

The home that was struck by the plane belongs to Roger and Julie Goulart, whose primary residence is the Bay Area, Monterey County Weekly reports. Roger Goulart is a vice president at Coupa Software, and the couple use the Monterey spot as their second home.

Tony Trujillo, a neighborhood caretaker who witnessed the crash, told the Weekly he "saw the plane fly very low and heard some of the trees crackling, then the plane hit the house. Went right into the living room."

Firefighters estimated about 60% of the residence was affected by the fire, and plane debris started the additional spot fires in the area. "It's unclear whether the home can be repaired or not," Monterey County Deputy Fire Marshal Dorothy Priolo said Tuesday.

John Thornburg, a spokesperson for the Monterey County Sheriffs Department, said no bodies have been recovered from the wreckage yet.

The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation into the cause of the crash.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
LATEST July 15, 10:30 p.m. Los Angeles County's public health officer said Thursday afternoon that a public health order requiring masks indoors will go into effect at 11:59 p.m. Saturday.

Amid a surge in cases due to the Delta variant, the county started recommending late last month that people mask in public indoor places, regardless of vaccination status.

Health officials opted to tighten restrictions even more, making face coverings a requirement indoors. This is the first county in the state to do this since Gov. Gavin Newsom reopened the economy on June 16, allowing vaccinated people to generally stop wearing face coverings.

Sacramento and Yolo counties are recommending that

July 15, 2:30 p.m. Sacramento County issued an advisory Thursday recommending that people mask in public indoor places, regardless of vaccination status, due to the highly transmissible Delta variant. Yolo County issued a similar advisory Wednesday and Los Angeles did the same last month.

July 15, 9 a.m. Health officers in Yolo County issued an advisory Wednesday calling on all residentseven those who are fully vaccinatedto wear masks in public indoor settings due to increasing spread of the highly transmissible Delta variant. The advisory is a recommendation and not mandatory.

"Vaccinated residents are strongly recommended to wear masks in indoor settings where vaccination verification is not required and the vaccination status of others is unknown," said health officers. "Unvaccinated individuals are still required to wear masks in indoor public spaces."

This announcement comes after Los Angeles County started recommending masks in indoor public areas, regardless of vaccination status.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom said last week there was no immediate plan to implement a statewide requirement.

"If we continue to get people vaccinated that'll be unnecessary and this is the call that anyone who hasn't been vaccinated get vaccinated," said Newsom, as reported by ABC 7 News.

The Delta variant, also known as B.1.617.2, accounts for 58% of new COVID-19 cases across the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Since mid-April Yolo County has detected 59 cases of the Delta variant, according to the statement from the county. The variant made up to 76% of positive samples collected on the UC Davis campus and through Healthy Yolo Together testing between June 27 and July 7.

In making yesterdays new recommendations for fully vaccinated persons to resume masking indoors and to get tested after an exposure, I am erring on the side of caution to slow the spread of the highly infectious Delta variant," said Yolo County Health Officer Dr. Aimee Sisson in a statement. "Vaccines remain the absolute best form of protection against COVID-19, and I implore everyone who is eligible to get fully vaccinated as soon as possible. At the same time, we know that our vaccines, while highly effective, arent perfect. Putting on a mask indoors in settings where you cant be sure that everyone who is unmasked is fully vaccinated is a simple way to add another layer of protection against COVID-19.
Damian Dovarganes/AP

Los Angeles County became the first county in California to re-impose a mask mandate when county health officer Barbara Ferrer issued an order Thursday afternoon requiring all individuals  regardless of vaccination status  to wear masks indoors.

The order takes effect at 11:59 p.m., on Saturday, and was issued in response to a recent uptick in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations driven by the more contagious delta variant. The county had previously stated that every single patient currently hospitalized is unvaccinated, and that breakthrough infections caused by the delta variant continue to be very rare.
Something unusual happened during the 7 p.m. hour on Fox News on Tuesday night.

Host Pete Hegseth was pressing Texas state representative James Talarico about his decision to flee Austin with dozens of other Democratic lawmakers this week - a procedural gambit intended to block Republicans from passing strict voting laws back home.

The on-screen graphic called the Democrats' exodus a "stunt," and Hegseth's interview with the 32-year-old lawmaker made it clear he agreed.

"We know you met with (Democratic Senate Majority Leader) Chuck Schumer and (Democratic House Speaker) Nancy Pelosi today," the host told Talarico. "You've been told to say you're protecting democracy, that Republicans are authoritarian and racist. . . . It kind of seems they're using you as a prop, or a puppet."

Talarico tried to argue his case - that former president Donald Trump's false claims that the November election was rigged against him had inspired Republicans in Texas and other states to launch legislative attacks against voting rights. But all the while, Hegseth smirked, laughed into the camera, and constantly interrupted his guest.

It was standard Fox opinion fare - until about six minutes into the interview, when Talarico turned the tables.

"You have made a lot of money personally and you've enriched a lot of corporations with advertising by getting on here and spewing lies and conspiracy theories to folks who trust you," Talarico told Hegseth.

He then gave the host a challenge: "Tell your voters right now that Donald Trump lost the election."

Hegseth did not. The longtime Fox host had said in November that it was "premature to declare that Joe Biden is the president-elect," even after his own network had called the race.

Sensing the host's reluctance, Talarico pounced. "Is this an uncomfortable question for you?" he asked.

Talarico received plaudits from Democrats on social media for his performance, which quickly went viral. A version of the segment shared by Talarico on Twitter had been viewed approximately 700,000 times as of Wednesday afternoon.

Hegseth seemed less pleased. "It's not your show, sir," he told Talarico at one point in the interview. "I don't really feel any obligation to answer anything from you."

The clash felt like a throwback to bygone era in cable news - when cross-partisan rumbles were common on Fox opinion shows such as "The O'Reilly Factor," hosted by flame-thrower Bill O'Reilly. They have become less common in recent years, as Democratic politicians have largely steered clear of Fox opinion shows, even while appearing with some regularity on the network's news programs.

Talarico told The Washington Post he had no intention of clashing with Hegseth when he went into the interview. "I'm a former teacher, so I'm very conflict-averse typically," he said. "That kind of stuff makes me anxious."

The Democrat said he initially thought the appearance would be an opportunity to get his message across to constituents who watch Fox - but soon realized that Hegseth had no intention of letting him do so.

"I just kind lost my temper a little bit when I was being interrupted," he said. "The train jumped the tracks a little bit during the interview," he said. "I think I got angry. And I don't like to get angry. . . . I didn't anticipate the level of disruption, interruption, and unwillingness to even listen to each other. The aggressiveness is what took me aback."

Talarico, who brushed up on Hegseth's background quickly before the interview by watching a video of him on YouTube, said he discerned quickly that the host "was not interested in having a conversation."

The lawmaker said he was surprised that Hegseth did not acknowledge Biden's victory, even when asked directly.

"I knew it would make him uncomfortable, but I thought he would just say 'yes' and move on," Talarico said. "The silence surprised me."

Talarico said he would "love" to return to Fox News as a guest, even if his last experience "was a little traumatic."

Representatives for the network, however, did not respond when asked about the clash and whether Talarico would be invited back.
LOS ANGELES  Californias beleaguered network of small, nonprofit theaters will receive a $50 million one-time subsidy under a $262 billion California state budget agreement signed this week by Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Newsom and his fellow Democratic leaders in the legislature, negotiated the assistance as part of a sweeping 2021-22, which includes billions in economic relief for residents and small businesses struggling under the weight of the pandemic. The theater subsidy came after intense lobbying from small theaters concerned about their future after a 15-month shutdown. Compounding the effects was the prospect of sharply increased labor costs for many theaters as a result of a new gig worker law that took effect in 2020.

The theaters, which are smaller than 99 seats, already operate on shoestring budgets. Most remain closed, hoping to reopen this fall, but amid concerns about whether their audiences will return to sit in cramped halls with bad ventilation. COVID cases have been on the rise in Los Angeles, and the county has now advised people to wear masks in indoor public settings.

The gig worker law was intended to address the plight of people like Uber drivers, who were considered contract workers. But it would also affect many small theaters that treated employees as contract workers, paying them stipends typically ranging from $9 to $25 per rehearsal or performance.

Under the terms of that legislation, which took effect right before California shut down, the theaters will have to abide by a minimum wage, which will soon reach $15 an hour in California, and cover payroll taxes, workers' compensation and unemployment costs. Some union theaters in Los Angeles were already doing this, but many had received an exemption from Actors Equity, the national labor union for actors and stage managers, and said the additional costs could overwhelm their small budgets.

Some industries lobbied legislators in Sacramento for an exemption from that requirement. Equity strongly opposed seeking an exemption, and theater groups instead pushed for the subsidy.

The union applauded the outcome.

This funding will make it possible for live arts employers to reopen, which will put Californians back to work and drive more economic activity throughout the California economy, it said in a statement.

This funding is one of two ways the state has moved to bail out the small theater industry. The other is legislation, still under negotiation, that would create a stage agency to take care of the administrative costs of the payroll obligation of the law.

State Sen. Susan Rubio, a Democrat pushing both measures, said she thought these efforts would help the theaters get past this difficult time.

Small nonprofit performing arts companies have historically been undervalued and underfunded despite their contributions to the economic growth, social well-being and cultural vitality of the local communities they serve, she said

This article originally appeared in The New York Times.
NEW YORK (AP)  A New York City museum dedicated to telling Chinese American history marked its reopening to the public on Wednesday, with an exhibit on Asian Americans and racism that it curated partially through submissions gathered during the pandemic and a surge of anti-Asian bias incidents around the country.

The opening was a long time coming for the Museum of Chinese in America, not only because of the pandemic shutdown of over a year but because of a fire that ravaged though the space where its collection was housed in January 2020. Luckily, most of the collection was salvaged.

Looking back, there was a question of how were we going to survive, but we kept pivoting," said Nancy Yao Maasbach, the museum's president.

That included a lot of virtual programming, including the call for submissions that became part of Responses: Asian American Voices Resisting the Tides of Racism," opening to the public on Thursday.

In the exhibition, the outer walls are a running history of sorts, a timeline showcasing the racism and bigotry that's been turned toward Asian and Asian Americans throughout their generations in the U.S.

They touch on the treatment of the earliest Asian immigrant communities, how stereotypes connecting them and disease have a long history, to more recent issues like the treatment of Middle Eastern and South Asian communities in the wake of the Sept. 11 attacks.

The anti-Asian bias of the pandemic is on display, with a timeline including top government officials using anti-Asian slurs as names for the coronavirus and blaming China for its existence.

There's also a listing of various attacks that had Asian victims, like the shootings at spa businesses in Georgia in March, where six women of Asian descent were among the eight people killed.

In the center of the show are items collected by the museum showing how Asian Americans have tried to push back against bias in the past year, like photographer Mike Keo's series of images of Asian Americans sharing their identities with the hashtag, #IAMNOTAVIRUS.

Another piece is a collection of yellow whistles, which visitors are encouraged to take. Dr. Agnes Hsu-Tang and Oscar Tang founded the Yellow Whistle Project this year, offering the items as a security measure in case help is needed and making them yellow in a reference to how the color has been weaponized as a xenophobic slur against Asian Americans.

It was important to include both the history and the pandemic-related material, said Herb Tam, curator and director of exhibits at the museum.

We felt like even though the submissions since April 2020 were really wonderful ... it wouldn't have been enough," he said, and they wanted the exhibition to make people aware of how this is not new, the way that Asians have been made to feel foreign, or the way we have been scapegoated for a disease."

The opening didn't come without controversy. Two artists who had been slated to have their images of Chinatown in Oakland, California, in the show pulled their photos in recent days, following a similar action from other artists in a show the museum was supposed to have put on last year.

The artists, Colin Chin and Nicholas Liem, withdrew their work over a controversy about a contested city plan to site a new jail facility in Chinatown. In talking about the overall project, the city said MOCA would be getting $35 million toward its capital needs, which critics of the jail plan have used to condemn the museum.

The museum has been adamant that it does not support the jail, and Yao Massbach said it had been asking the city for capital funds for several years before the controversy.

Liem, speaking to The Associated Press from Seoul, South Korea, wasn't convinced. You can't say you're against something while financially benefitting from it, he said.

At the press event for the new exhibit on Wednesday, protesters could plainly be heard from the street outside, at times right up next to the clear windows at the front of the building.

Tam called the artists' withdrawal disheartening" and the controversy was being fueled by mischaracterizations."
WASHINGTON (AP)  Former President Donald Trump insisted Thursday that he wouldnt have used the military to illegally seize control of the government after his election loss. But he suggested that if he had tried to carry out a coup, it wouldnt have been with his top military adviser.

In a lengthy statement, Trump responded to revelations in a new book detailing fears from Gen. Mark Milley that the outgoing president would stage a coup during his final weeks in office. Trump said he's not into coups and never threatened, or spoke about, to anyone, a coup of our Government. At the same time, Trump said that if I was going to do a coup, one of the last people I would want to do it with is" Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

The mere mention of a coup was a stunning remark from a former president, especially one who left office under the cloud of a violent insurrection he helped incite at the U.S. Capitol in January in an effort to impede the peaceful transfer of power to Democrat Joe Biden. Since then, the FBI has warned of a rapidly growing threat of homegrown violent extremism.

Despite such concerns, Trump is maintaining his grip on the Republican Party. He was meeting on Thursday with House Republican leader Kevin McCarthy and has stepped up his public schedule, holding a series of rallies for his supporters across the country in which he continues to spread the lie that last year's election was stolen from him.

His comment about a coup was in response to new reporting from I Alone Can Fix It: Donald J. Trumps Catastrophic Final Year" by Pulitzer Prize-winning Washington Post reporters Carol Leonnig and Philip Rucker. The book reports that Milley was shaken by Trumps refusal to concede in the weeks after the election.

According to early excerpts published by CNN and the Post on Wednesday ahead of its release, Milley was so concerned that Trump or his allies might try to use the military to remain in power that he and other top officials strategized about how they might block him  even hatching a plan to resign, one by one.

Milley also reportedly compared Trump's rhetoric to Adolf Hitler's during his rise to power.

This is a Reichstag moment, Milley reportedly told aides. The gospel of the Fuhrer.

Milley's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. But Milley has previously spoken out against drawing the military into election politics, especially after coming under fire for joining Trump on a walk through Lafayette Square for a photo op at a church shortly after the square had been violently cleared of protesters.

Trump, in the statement, mocked Milley's response to that moment, saying it helped him realize that his top military adviser was certainly not the type of person I would be talking coup with."

The book is one of a long list being released in the coming weeks examining the chaotic final days of the Trump administration, the Jan. 6 insurrection and the outgoing president's refusal to accept the election's outcome. Trump sat for hours of interviews with many of the authors, but has issued a flurry of statements in recent days disputing their reporting and criticizing former staff for participating.

There is no evidence that supports Trump's claims that the election was somehow stolen from him. State election officials, Trumps own attorney general and numerous judges, including many appointed by Trump, have rejected allegations of massive fraud. Trump's own Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency called the 2020 election the most secure in American history.

Trump remains a dominant force in Republican politics, as demonstrated by McCarthy's visit on Thursday to the former president's summer home in Bedminster, New Jersey.

Trump and McCarthy were expected to spend their meeting discussing upcoming special elections, Republicans record fundraising hauls and Democrats they see as vulnerable in the 2022 midterm elections, according to a person familiar with the agenda who spoke on condition of anonymity to describe a private meeting. McCarthy previously met with Trump in January at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida.

Meanwhile, Republicans who are eyeing White House bids of their own aren't crossing Trump, who remains popular with many GOP voters.

GOP Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas, a potential 2024 presidential contender, said "no comment, when asked if he thought Trumps statement was appropriate for a former president. A member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and an Army veteran of two combat tours in Iraq, Cotton declined to comment again when asked if he wanted to criticize Trumps remark.

I think he has the right to say what he wants to say, said Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, when asked if he was comfortable with a former president even hypothetically entertaining the idea of a coup.

You know, Donald Trump speaks for himself and he always has, said Cruz, another potential White House candidate in 2024.

___

Associated Press writers Robert Burns and Alan Fram contributed to this report.
TEHRAN, Iran (AP)  Iranian police have uncovered bootleg wine hidden in a dry village well in the country's west, state television reported on Thursday.

The report did not say how much wine was found in the incident Wednesday and if any suspects were arrested in the case.

The TV broadcast footage of police officers pumping out red wine from the well into a barrel, using a hose. The report said the incident happened in a village near the city of Khoramabad, some 380 kilometers (235 miles) southwest of the capital, Tehran.

Iranian police occasionally announce alcohol busts, though locally made bootleg vodka, other liquor and wines, as well as smuggled foreign brands are traded on the country's black market.

Media outlets in this conservative nation, where alcoholic beverages are illegal and Muslims are banned from drinking alcohol, often carry reports about confiscations of bootleg booze.

In recent years, hundreds of Iranians have died from methanol poisoning after they drank toxic homemade brews. Methanol sometimes also contaminates traditionally fermented alcohol and is even sold, falsely advertised as drinkable.

With the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, which hit Iran the worst in the Middle East, scores died from ingesting industrial alcohol amid mistaken beliefs that it protects against the virus. The poisonings came as fake remedies spread across social media in Iran, where the coronavirus crisis overwhelmed the country.

A Muslim found drinking alcohol in Iran can be punished with 80 lashes and a cash fine. However, minority Christians, Jews and Zoroastrians are allowed to drink alcoholic beverages in private.
MIAMI BEACH, Fla. (AP)  Police are investigating after two bodies were found Wednesday at a South Florida hotel that was once the mansion of the late fashion designer Gianni Versace.

Miami Beach police and fire rescue responded Wednesday afternoon after housekeeping at The Villa Casa Casuarina found the dead men in a room, officials said. The scene was contained to the hotel room and detectives have launched a death investigation, police said.
ATLANTA (AP)  Sonya and Steve McKaig were close friends with Jim Beck until they got a look at the evidence that federal investigators had gathered against the now-suspended Georgia insurance commissioner. Then the friendship ended with the McKaigs saying they learned Beck was embezzling.

I believed in Jim Beck, Steve McKaig testified Wednesday, the second day of Beck's trial in federal court in Atlanta. I believed he was an honorable man, an honest man with great ideas for Georgia, and he had been my friend.

The husband and wife testified Tuesday that at Beck's behest they started doing business with the Georgia Underwriting Association. Beck directed they invoice the insurer for hundreds of thousands of dollars on behalf of a company named Green Technology Services, according to the testimony. Then, they said, they sent those checks to Beck.

Then Beck would hand the checks to his cousin, Matthew Barfield, who testified he would skim 10% without doing any other work besides creating invoices and give the rest to Beck. Barfield testified Beck told him that Beck was keeping 10% for himself and passing the rest to someone doing property inspections and collecting data.

But prosecutors say the McKaigs and Barfield, who haven't been criminally charged, were part of Beck's scheme to steal more than $2 million from the Georgia Underwriting Association, an insurer of last resort that Beck managed before he was elected insurance and safety fire commissioner in 2018.

Months after taking office in 2019, Beck was indicted on charges of mail fraud, wire fraud, money laundering and filing false tax returns.

Beck's defense has yet to present its case. Lawyers argued Tuesday as the trial opened that Beck hadn't hurt the association but instead turned it from losses to profits. They argue that Beck was an innovator and that even if his methods were unconventional, there's no proof he meant to hurt the association. They also suggested Green Technology Services provided useful data, even if witnesses were unaware.

Sonya McKaig testified that Beck asked her to start reviewing insurance applications for the association, which writes coverage for property owners who can't find it on the normal insurance market. The Georgia Underwriting Association, authorized under state law, is owned by state-regulated insurers who share in its risks.

Both McKaigs testified they did real work, although most billings were for money flowing to Green Technology Services.

McKaig said she reviewed information on applications, allowing GUA to charge correct premiums. Beck directed her each month to roll into her bill a separate bill from Green Technology Services. That amount was typically $28,700 a month, with Beck telling McKaig to mark up the amount by another 5% for herself, according to her testimony.

McKaig said she never had contact with Green Technology or Barfield. Bills for Green Technology were emailed by Beck from his personal email address, which Sonya McKaig said Beck directed her to use for correspondence. After getting paid by GUA, Sonya McKaig said, she would write a check to Green Technology that she would send marked personal and confidential to Beck at GUA's office.

This was a pretty significant amount of money that he was in receipt of and he, being a hands-on manager, want to make sure the funds were received, Sonya McKaig testified.

Steve McKaig testified Beck asked him to call people who filed water damage claims, advising them how to clean up and limit costly damages. Steve McKaig created a website and tip sheets.

People would be delighted that someone would call, McKaig testified.

But like his wife, Beck directed Steve McKaig to also bill GUA on behalf of Green Technology. Steve McKaig testified that Beck told him GUA was paying $200,000 to Green Technology to provide reinsurance against water damage. Reinsurance is when an insurer contracts with someone else to share part of the risk. Green Technology was not a reinsurance company, making the arrangement unusual, but Steve McKaig testified Beck told him Green Technology was owned by an unnamed rich investor who would bear the risk directly in exchange for the money. Like his wife's company, Beck would send Steve McKaig invoices from Green Technology to roll into his own bills, according to the testimony. Steve McKaig said he would then cut checks to Green Technology and send them to Beck.

Both McKaigs said they never questioned Beck's actions until prosecutors called them before a grand jury.

I trusted him, Susan McKaig said. I trusted his wife. I felt like there were no better people.

Defense attorney Bill Thomas suggested the McKaigs hadn't seen the whole picture, but Susan McKaig said she had seen enough: We didn't wish to have any further contact.

___

Follow Jeff Amy on Twitter at http://twitter.com/jeffamy.
LEVELLAND, Texas (AP)  Authorities captured the suspect late Thursday following an hourslong police standoff where one officer was killed and four others were wounded in a small West Texas city.

Omar Soto-Chavira, 22, was injured when he was taken into custody around 11:30 p.m. at a home in Levelland, police Chief Albert Garcia told reporters. The suspect was being transported to a hospital in Lubbock for treatment, Garcia said. The extent of the suspect's injuries was not disclosed.

Authorities used robots to enter the home, then deployed gas which drew Soto-Chivara out of the residence, Lubbock County Sheriff Kelly Rowe said at the briefing.

The standoff between the suspect and law enforcement had begun at the home around 1 p.m. after someone reported a man as possibly armed along the residential street in Levelland, about 30 miles (50 kilometers) west of Lubbock. The confrontation escalated quickly, gunfire erupted as the suspect barricaded himself inside a house, and a standoff ensued.

Three of the wounded officers were taken to a Lubbock hospital. Sgt. Josh Bartlett of the Lubbock County Sheriffs Office was taken to Covenant Health Levelland hospital and died of his wounds, according to a sheriffs office statement. Bartlett was the commander of the sheriffs tactical unit.

Levelland police Sgt. Shawn Wilson was in critical but stable condition in University Medical Center in Lubbock after surgery, said Garcia. The other three officers were treated for minor injuries and had been discharged from the hospital, he said.

Hockley County Sheriff Ray Scifres had said the suspect had a history of contact with police. He also said Bartlett, leader of the Lubbock County Sheriffs Offices SWAT command, was a nine-year veteran of the department who had served overseas in the U.S. Army.

Josh was a true servant, Rowe said. He personified the true professional in law enforcement, especially here in Texas law enforcement.

It was not immediately clear what prompted the man to open fire or to barricade himself in the house. However, the standoff capped a string of events that began at 11:17 a.m. Thursday as a state trooper was conducting a traffic stop, Garcia said.

During that traffic contact, he had a separate individual that was driving recklessly, and as he reported to us, appeared to be trying to bait him into some type of confrontation, Garcia said.

At 1:12 p.m. Thursday, Levelland police received a report that the complainant's neighbor was acting strange and was walking around with what appeared to be a large gun, Garcia said. Arriving officers determined the neighbor's pickup truck matched the description that the trooper provided of the vehicle with the apparently provocative driver at the wheel.

Garcia said investigators believed the man was alone in the house. Concerned about the report that the man was armed, a police negotiator tried to open talks with the suspect, who was hostile and did not want a discussion, Garcia said. Moments later, the suspect opened the front door to the house and opened fire on the Levelland officers. We did return fire, but it did not appear that we struck the suspect at that time, the chief said.

Backup was called from the Lubbock County Sheriff's Office tactical squad and the Hockley County Sheriff's Office. It wasn't long thereafter that we had additional shots fired, and we had officers that were injured, Garcia said.

The hospital where the Lubbock County deputy died, Covenant Health Levelland, is situated less than a mile from the standoff scene and placed itself on lockdown to ensure the safety of our patients, caregivers, and visitors and has deployed additional security officers to the hospital.

Media outlets at the scene reported gunfire was ongoing throughout the standoff, and nearby residents were urged to leave their homes. Some who declined to leave were advised to stay at the rear of their houses and stay low, Garcia said.

Police, deputies and other emergency crews from throughout the region responded to the incident, along with the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Texas Rangers, the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and other federal agencies, Garcia said. The Rangers would lead the investigation after the standoff concluded.

Levelland is the Hockley County seat and a local oil, cotton and cattle center that is home to about 13,500 residents.

___

This story has been corrected to attribute a quote to Lubbock County Sheriff Kelly Rowe, not Hockley County Sheriff Ray Scifres. The story was previously corrected to show that the deputy died at a Levelland hospital.
Michael Conroy/AP

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP)  A bill that would require doctors to tell women undergoing drug-induced abortions about a disputed method for potentially stopping the abortion process was introduced Thursday in the Ohio House.

The legislation would require physicians who perform or induce a chemical abortion to inform a patient prior to, or soon after, taking the first of two pills used in the process that it may be possible to reverse the process, a position disputed by experts.
WASHINGTON - More companies that pledged to pause or rethink political donations after the Jan. 6 insurrection are once again donating to Republican lawmakers who voted against certifying President Joe Biden's victory.

The flow of money is a sign that the promises issued by corporate America were temporary, especially in light of razor-thin Democratic majorities.

American Airlines was among the flock of companies vowing changes after the deadly assault on the Capitol aimed at reversing Biden's win. The Texas-based airline, the world's largest by fleet size, would pause all donations from its corporate PAC, a spokeswoman, Stacy Day, said in January. "When we resume, we will ensure we focus on a bipartisan array of lawmakers who support U.S. aviation, airline workers and our values, including bringing people together," she said.

Within half a year, American Airlines has not only resumed political giving but also contributed directly to at least one of the 147 Republican lawmakers who opposed certification of the electoral college results. The airline's PAC gave $2,500 to Rep. Sam Graves, R-Mo., on June 7, according to a new filing with the Federal Election Commission.

Graves is the top Republican on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. He joined several other House Republicans from Missouri in issuing a statement in January alleging voting irregularities and insisting that "we feel compelled to object to the electoral count taking place on January 6th."

Day, the American Airlines spokeswoman, told The Washington Post in an email, "While there is no lawmaker with whom we agree about every issue, we are committed to working with members of both parties to advance policies that will positively shape the future of our company, our team members and the communities we serve."

The company is not alone in resuming political donations after pledging to pause or reevaluate contributions. According to a June report from the nonprofit Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, more than $5 million in corporate or industry money has already gone to lawmakers who contested the election results or to aligned party committees.

Reports filed with the FEC this week make clear those donors include multiple corporations that pledged to change or pause their giving after the insurrection. Health insurance giant Cigna vowed after Jan. 6 that it would no longer support elected officials who "hindered the peaceful transition of power." But Cigna's PAC gave at least $14,000 in recent months to Republicans who opposed certification of Biden's win, including $5,000 to a PAC sponsored by Rep. Steve Scalise, R-La., the No. 2 Republican in the House. Other beneficiaries of Cigna's PAC who refused to accept the election results include Reps. Devin Nunes, R-Calif., Lloyd Smucker, R-Pa. , David Schweikert, R-Ariz., Pat Fallon, R-Texas, and Vicky Hartzler, R-Mo., according to campaign committee reports covering the second quarter of the year.

Aflac, which paused its PAC's donations after Jan. 6, contributed more than $13,000 in June to four lawmakers who refused to accept the election results, according to an FEC filing this month. The Georgia-based insurance company directed contributions to Reps. Mike Rogers, R-Ala., Tom Rice, R-S.C., Barry Loudermilk, R-Ga., and Bill Johnson, R-Ohio.

Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., who voted against certification, netted contributions at the end of June from PACs connected to Lockheed Martin as well as the United Parcel Service, his campaign's filing for the second quarter of the year shows. Both companies initially halted donations after Jan. 6.

Now, UPS is among the companies again giving generously to Republican objectors, including $10,000 in June to Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., the House minority leader, and $5,000 to Rep. Earl Carter, R-Ga. Carter also drew $2,500 from Southern Co., an Atlanta-based gas and electric utility that had promised to "discontinue support for any official or organization" at odds with "values we follow as a business - honesty, respect, fairness, integrity and the value of diversity."

A UPS spokeswoman, Danielle Cassady, defended the decision to resume political contributions, including to members who challenged the electoral college results, by saying, "Engagement with those with whom we disagree is a critical part of the democratic process and our responsibility in legislative advocacy as a company."

Major defense companies, such as Boeing and Northrop Grumman, which had already resumed sending PAC dollars to Republican objectors, continued their giving. Lockheed Martin gave $1,000 to Rep. Andrew Clyde, R-Ga., on June 2, several weeks after he compared the assault on the Capitol to a "normal tourist visit." John Torrisi, a spokesman for Lockheed Martin, said the company had evaluated its "political engagement program" and "will continue to observe long-standing principles of nonpartisan political engagement in support of our business interests."

General Motors, after suspending political contributions and vowing that "[c]haracter and public integrity aligning with GM's core values" would figure in decisions about future donations, gave $5,000 to Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La., and $1,000 to Sen. Cynthia M. Lummis,R-Wyo., both of whom opposed certification, as well as $5,000 to Graves. GM's PAC supports lawmakers "from both sides of the aisle who foster sound business policies, support American workers and understand the importance of a robust domestic auto industry as we pursue an all-electric vehicle future," said a spokeswoman, Jeannine Ginivan.

Aflac, Southern Co., Boeing and Northrop Grumman did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

"They said pausing; they didn't stay stop," said Michael Cornfield, a political scientist at George Washington University. "They left themselves an out."

Corporate PAC donations come from employee contributions, rather than company money, and are capped at $10,000 per candidate in an election cycle. The American Airlines PAC spent $771,000 in the 2020 cycle, according to the Center for Responsive Politics. Of that, $529,000 went to federal candidates, with 53 percent flowing to Republicans.

While some companies issued blanket promises to pause donations after Jan. 6, others were more specific, saying they would cut off lawmakers who participated in efforts to challenge or overturn the election results. Still, some of these companies, including Walmart and Pfizer, have continued to support Republican committees and PACs controlled by party leaders, filings show. These groups direct money to individual members, without screening for lawmakers who opposed certification.

That method of spending, said Bruce Freed, president of the nonprofit Center for Political Accountability, is among the "indications that these companies are going back to business as usual."

"They were responding to the moment without recognizing that there are real long-term consequences, including consumer anger, which means people change their buying," Freed said.

Some companies have been responsive to that anger. Facing an outcry last week over its support for Republican objectors, Toyota changed course, saying it would stop donating to lawmakers who contested the election results.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  Authorities detained a heavily armed man attempting to enter the parking garage of a federal building in downtown Los Angeles on Wednesday, officials said.

The man was stopped by security officers at the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building who noticed a firearm in his vehicle, according to a statement from the Department of Homeland Security.
WASHINGTON - The Biden administration announced sweeping protections for Alaska's Tongass National Forest on Thursday, including an end to large-scale old-growth logging and a proposal to bar road development on more than 9 million acres.

The changes mark a major shift for a region that has relied on felling massive trees for more than a century, reversing one of former president Donald Trump's biggest public land decisions and halting a significant source of future carbon emissions. The Tongass, part of one of the world's last relatively intact temperate rainforests, is the only national forest where old-growth logging still takes place on an industrial scale.

The 16.7 million-acre forest - which once boasted major pulp mills but is now targeted for its fine-grain, centuries-old trees that are coveted for pricey musical instruments, expansive outdoor decks and elegant shingles - has been a political flash point for two decades. While Democrats have sought to scale back logging in the forest over time, the administration's moves go further than any previous president's efforts.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said the proposal would provide $25 million for community development and would allow Alaska Natives and small-scale operators to continue to harvest some old-growth trees. But Vilsack - who proposed a much more gradual transition away from old-growth logging when he was secretary under President Barack Obama - said it's time to focus on other economic activities, such as fishing, recreation and tourism.

"This approach will help us chart the path to long-term economic opportunities that are sustainable and reflect southeast Alaska's rich cultural heritage and magnificent natural resources," he said.

Although timber operations felled large swaths of its largest trees between the 1960s and the 1980s, about 5 million acres of prime old-growth habitat remain, according to the Forest Service.

There were plans for three major old-growth harvests of more than 15,750 acres on Forest Service land, on Prince of Wales Island and Revillagigedo Island, as well as one that encompasses Mitkof, Kupreanof, Kuiu, Wrangell, Zarembo and Etolin islands and the U.S. mainland. Since the environmental analyses were not complete and final decisions had not been made, administration officials said, these sales would not take place.

Scientists have identified logging in Tongass as a future driver of planetary warming, because its ancient trees - many of which are at least three centuries old - absorb at least 8% of the carbon stored in the entire Lower 48 states' forests combined.

"This is the most important thing that can happen in terms of preserving forests," Beverly Law, a professor emeritus of global change biology at Oregon State University, said in a phone interview.

She noted that the carbon stored in old-growth trees can stay out of the atmosphere for about 1,000 years if they remain uncut, while research has found that about 65 percent of the carbon held by trees that are felled is released in the ensuing decades. "It's becoming obvious to people who aren't aware that our forests are the most effective way of taking up carbon and storing carbon for much longer than anywhere else."

Alaska's statewide elected leaders, including Gov. Mike Dunleavy, Sens. Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan, and Rep. Don Young, all Republicans, have consistently opposed restrictions on logging and other forms of industrial development within the forest. Trump exempted the state from the Roadless Area Conservation Rule, which President Bill Clinton enacted in 2001, in October.

Dunleavy said in a statement that the Forest Service had already concluded that exempting the state from the roadless rule "was fully justified."

"Narrow election results and political donations from environmental groups do not justify this federal agency's policy flip-flop," he said. "Our state's southeast communities need fundamental access, like roads, and the economic and resource development opportunities roads provide. Every Alaskan deserves the chance to work. We have the resources. We just need the opportunity."

Some local officials have also pressed to build more roads in order to extract other resources, such as gold and rare-earth metals.

Tim O'Connor, mayor of the town of Craig on Prince of Wales Island, said in an email that curbing development would undercut the local tax base.

"If we don't have access to the road systems due to the roadless rule, it affects our ability to hunt food and resources for subsistence," he said. "Also we will not be able to develop mines, hydro projects and minerals needed by our country for strategic needs."

But a broad coalition of Alaska Native leaders, environmentalists, commercial fishing operators, anglers and tourism companies have argued that protecting southeast Alaska's rugged terrain represents the best way forward. Much of the Tongass is accessible only by boat, small plane or on foot. Towering stands of Sitka spruce, western hemlock, red cedar and Alaska yellow cedar blanket much of the archipelago, and safeguard waterways teeming with five species of wild salmon.

Millie Schoonover, 74, is a member of both the Craig Tribal and the Craig City councils and said in an interview that she has seen the area transformed over the course of her lifetime. "Logging was a good thing, but it's way out of balance," she said.

To manage the forest properly, she said, policymakers need to safeguard the salmon, deer and other game people have caught and hunted for centuries. "We don't overharvest everything."

Joel Jackson, president of the Organized Village of Kake, has spent two decades fighting to preserve the forest's roadless areas. He said in a phone interview that he welcomes the cancellation of three major timber sales and the new grants.

"It's a start," he said, adding that the federal government had spent tens of millions of dollars a year subsidizing logging.

Austin Williams, Alaska director of law and policy for Trout Unlimited, said in an email that the Forest Service had decided to "align itself with the economic realities of the region, where fishing, guiding and tourism have been the mainstays for decades."

"We need healthy rivers and forests, abundant fish and wildlife, beautiful scenery, and management that recognizes the cultural values of the forest, not more costly and damaging clear-cut logging of old-growth forest," he said.

It is peak tourist season in southeast Alaska right now, and while large cruise-ship traffic has dipped because of the pandemic, smaller-scale tourism is booming. Alaska Seaplane Adventures General Manager Dan Kirkwood, who leads trips to watch brown bears hunting salmon and co-chairs a tourism business working group, said in an interview that the area remains a draw because it's so undeveloped.

"When they say, 'How do we create economic development in rural communities,' this is what it looks like," he said, adding that the new grants show the Forest Service is shifting from an agency focused on logging to one with a broader agenda.

"This is them saying, 'We recognize we need to serve the diverse economies in southeast Alaska, and we're recalibrating,' " Kirkwood said.
President Joe Biden's nominee to lead the U.S. Census Bureau told a Senate committee on Thursday that he would bring transparency and independence to the nation's largest statistical agency, which was challenged by the pandemic, natural disasters and attempts at political interference while carrying out the 2020 census.

If confirmed, Robert Santos, a third-generation Mexican American, would be the first person of color to be a permanent head of the agency.

Santos told members of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee that he would rely on technological advances for innovation and would recognize career staffers who endured a tumultuous 2020."

Although the director of the Census Bureau is a political position, Santos said he wasn't a politician. He is a former president of the American Statistical Association and vice president and chief methodologist at the Urban Institute.

The bulk of the work on the 2020 census is over. The numbers that determine how many congressional seats each state gets were released in April, and the figures used for drawing congressional and legislative districts are on schedule to be made public next month.

Much of Santos' attention, if he is confirmed, will be on preparing for the next once-a-decade census in 2030 and also ongoing demographic and economic surveys.

Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, asked Santos to commit to a Census Bureau goal of releasing the data used for drawing congressional and legislative districts by Aug. 16, almost five months later than planned because of pandemic delays. Ohio sued the agency in an effort to get those numbers released sooner. Under a settlement in May, the Census Bureau reaffirmed that deadline.

There are people thinking of running for office but they don't know what their districts will look like because we can't get the data from the Census Bureau, Portman said. It has been a disaster in Ohio, and I'm sure other states feel the same.

Santos committed "to trying to meet it as much as possible," but acknowledged not having "the information right now to know where the Census Bureau is at."

Under questioning from Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Santos said he would work with the White House budget office on finding a way to combine the race and ethnic background questions on the 2030 census questionnaire. A previous study by the Census Bureau showed that doing so increased response rates by Hispanics, who may be uncertain how to answer the race question because they often are from mixed race and ethnic backgrounds, Padilla said.

The Office of Budget and Management had considered pairing the questions for the 2020 census, but the Trump administration decided to keep the race question separate from the ethnicity one.

I can use my own personal perspective as a Latino, and I can use my research experience and my leadership position, to work with OMB to be sure that the proper attention is given to that specific issue," Santos said.

Earlier this week, a group of academic associations and civil rights groups urged a prompt confirmation for Santos.

Santos, a native of San Antonio, also has been director of survey operations for the Survey Research Center at the University of Michigan; vice president of statistics and methodology at NORC at the University of Chicago; and senior study director at the Institute for Survey Research at Temple University.

His expertise ... matches well with the work of the census, especially in the bureaus work to reach hard-to-count populations such as communities of color," the academic and civil rights groups wrote in a letter to the Senate committee.

The previous Senate-confirmed director, Donald Trump-appointee Steven Dillingham, resigned in January after facing criticism that he was acceding to the Trump administrations demand to produce citizenship information at the expense of data quality in the 2020 census. The Biden administration has abandoned that effort.

The agency's chief operating officer, Ron Jarmin, has been serving as acting director.

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Follow Mike Schneider on Twitter at https://twitter.com/MikeSchneiderAP
HELENA, Mont. (AP)  Biologists are set to begin capturing grizzly bears in the Custer Gallatin National Forest south of Gallatin Gateway as part of ongoing population monitoring required under the Endangered Species Act.

The Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team will begin field captures July 20 and continue through the end of August. Areas where capture activities are underway are marked with warning signs. Wildlife officials are warning the public to heed these signs and not venture into areas where they are posted.
RIO DE JANEIRO (AP)  Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro was recovering in a Sao Paulo hospital Thursday after being rushed for treatment of intestinal obstruction, but is unlikely to need surgery, the presidents son Flavio said on his official Twitter account.

The president's office said in a statement that the president was doing better and that his clinical and laboratory results were satisfactory, but it gave no expected discharge date. The statement, signed by the president's doctors, did not mention surgery.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP)  Cleveland State University said Thursday it will continue to require that students living on campus be vaccinated against the coronavirus despite a new law prohibiting public schools and colleges in Ohio from mandating the vaccine.

The school, the only public university in the state with such a requirement, said the mandate will continue since the fall term begins Aug. 21 and the law doesn't take effect until October.

Over the last three semesters, our students, faculty, and staff have worked hard to keep our community safe," said spokesperson Allison Bibb-Carson. "As a result, Cleveland State University achieved one of lowest infection rates among urban universities in the country.

About 1,000 Cleveland State students live on campus out of a total enrollment of nearly 16,000 students. Medical and religious exemptions are available, Bibb-Carson said.

The university said it would comply with the law once it takes effect.

The bill signed into law Wednesday by Republican Gov. Mike DeWine and aimed at the coronavirus vaccine bans public schools and colleges from requiring individuals to receive vaccines not granted full approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The bill, which takes effect Oct. 12, would also prohibit individuals who don't receive emergency use vaccines from being denied the chance to participate in school activities such as sports.

DeWine signed the legislation just hours after his top medical advisor warned that vaccination trends have led to the development of two Ohios when it comes to combating the coronavirus, increasing vulnerability to the diseases highly contagious delta variant.

A day before signing the bill, the governor said the FDA needs to move coronavirus vaccines from emergency use authorization to full approval as soon as possible. He said the emergency element is leading to vaccine hesitancy in the state.

On Thursday, a DeWine spokesperson said the governor is confident the ban won't be needed for long.

The prohibition was limited to vaccines that do not have full FDA approval, said Dan Tierney. We are confident that these vaccines, proven repeatedly to be very safe and very effective, will be approved by the FDA, thus rendering this issue moot.

Moderna and Pfizer have both begun the process to win full regulatory approval.

Last month, Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchison also called on the FDA to issue full approval, saying the lack of it was leading to vaccine hesitancy in his state.

We need to get that research completed so it can be final approval  I think that will help, Hutchison said on CBS' Face the Nation.

In North Carolina on Thursday, Dr. Mandy Cohen, the states top public health official, called the vaccines safe and effective and subject to rigorous clinical trials and review before their implementation.

Im hoping the FDA is working as rapidly as possible to get to full approval for the vaccine, said Cohen, the states Health and Human Services secretary.

A handful of private colleges in Ohio that are requiring students to be vaccinated, including Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware and Kenyon College in Gambier, won't be affected by the law.

We continue to believe that immunization is the best way to promote the health of our community, said Kenyon spokesperson Janet Marsden.

The Ohio prohibition was a last-minute GOP addition to a bill aimed at minimizing disruptions for children of military families moving into or out of school districts as a result of their parents' deployments.

House Republicans are also pushing another bill that would prohibit employers, either public or private, from requiring employees to receive vaccinations. The measure before the GOP-controlled House Health Committee has attracted multiple opponents of COVID-19 vaccines but does not mention the coronavirus. Instead, it addresses mandatory requirements for all vaccines, such as for the flu.

Lawmakers adjourned for the summer without moving the bill out of committee. It's opposed by every major business group in Ohio along with multiple medical, hospital and health care groups.

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Associated Press writers Andrew DeMillo in Little Rock, Arkansas, and Bryan Anderson in Raleigh, North Carolina, contributed to this report.

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Follow APs coverage of the pandemic at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic.
The White House said Thursday that President Joe Biden has approved a disaster declaration for Michigan due to last month's last months heavy rainfall that led to basement and street flooding in the Detroit area.

Word that Biden ordered federal assistance to supplement state and local recovery efforts came a day after a regional water authority board said it was forming a committee to look at its response to the crisis.

The committee will lead the Great Lakes Water Authority board's independent investigation and hire engineering and legal firms to assist in the review, Michelle Zdrodowski, spokeswoman for the authority, said in an email.

The committee includes representatives appointed by Wayne and Macomb counties, and the city of Detroit.

A storm dumped more than 6 inches (15.2 centimeters) of rain June 25-26 on the area, leaving thousands of basements and dozens of streets flooded. Cars and SUVs stuck in high water were abandoned on flooded freeways and many streets were impassable.

Two water pumping stations in Detroit experienced power-related problems but did not fail during the rainstorm, Great Lakes Water Authority Chief Executive Sue McCormick told reporters several days later.

McCormick said that due to an electrical service issue only three of six pumps at one station were able to be brought online, while a power outage at a second station slowed efforts to turn three of its pumps on as the rain poured.

Not only did we receive a large volume of precipitation, but it also fell in very intense bursts, she said. A review of the gauge data indicated the rain event was far beyond our designed standard.

Candice Miller, public works commissioner in neighboring Macomb County, earlier had called for an independent investigation.

The federal declaration also makes federal grants and low-cost loans available to residents and business owners in Detroit, other parts of Wayne County and Washtenaw County who were affected by the storm.

Federal Emergency Management Agency staffers were in Detroit and neighboring communities last week assessing damage from the flooding. After the storm, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency for Detroit and surrounding Wayne County.

On Tuesday, 20 residents of the suburb of Grosse Pointe Park filed a lawsuit in Wayne County Circuit Court against the authority alleging that 8 feet (2.4 meters) of wastewater flooded their basements through sewer lines.

The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department and the cities of Detroit and Grosse Pointe Park also are named in the lawsuit.

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Williams reported from West Bloomfield, Michigan.
NORWICH, Conn. (AP)  A Roman Catholic diocese in Connecticut filed for federal bankruptcy protection on Thursday to resolve dozens of lawsuits alleging the abuse of teenage students decades ago at the former Academy at Mount Saint John School, a residential treatment center for troubled youth in Deep River.

Documents filed by the Diocese of Norwich, which oversaw the facility, indicate it has $50 million to $100 million in estimated liabilities owed to 50 to 99 creditors. To date, nearly 60 former residents of the school have sued the diocese and a former bishop for damages, exceeding the diocese's current financial ability to pay, according a statement issued by the diocese.

"A Chapter 11 bankruptcy will allow the court to centralize these lawsuits, as well as help the Diocese manage its litigation expenses and preserve adequate financial resources for all essential ministries, Bishop Michael R Cote said in a statement. If the Diocese had not filed for bankruptcy, it would be unable to ensure that all of the individuals who file claims are treated fairly and have equal access to the funds available.

According to the filing, the diocese has $10 million to $50 million in assets.

Attorney Kelly Reardon, who represents six former students at the school, said the filing could delay the resolution of their claims, but she's hopeful the diocese will be transparent about its finances and the victims will eventually receive as much compensation as possible.

Hopefully there will be enough money in the total estate that each person will be able to receive 100% compensation, she said. But, unfortunately in these situations there usually isn't enough money and so it's more of a question of what percentage of your case value are you going to get?

The dioceses parishes, cemeteries, schools and religious orders are not part of the Chapter 11 filing, which is not expected to have a direct impact on the day-to-day operations of those entities or the employment status, salaries and benefits of the diocese's employees or retirees, the bishop said.

Todays filing puts all civil actions, judgments, collection activities and related legal actions against the Diocese on hold," according to the statement. The U.S. Bankruptcy Court is expected to set a deadline for individuals and organizations to file financial claims against the diocese.

The full extent of the Dioceses liabilities will not be known until after the claim deadline has passed, according to the statement. The Norwich Diocese was established in 1953. It covers half of the state's eight counties  Middlesex, New London, Tolland and Windham in Connecticut, as well as Fishers Island, New York. The smallest diocese in the state, it has about 228,000 parishioners

In 2018, an initial 24 men filed lawsuits against the Diocese of Norwich and former Bishop Daniel Reilly, claiming they were fondled, sodomized and raped while attending the Academy at Mount Saint John by two Christian brothers and at least two other staff members between 1986 and 2000. The boys, who were between 11 and 15 years old, had been placed at the now-defunct school by the state Department of Children and Families or the state's court system. DCF was not named as a defendant in those lawsuits.

The Diocese of Norwich said Thursday it is the 31st and most recent Catholic religious organization in the U.S. to seek bankruptcy protection under Chapter 11. As of May 2021, 19 of the earliest bankruptcies have led to a successful reorganization while 11 of the more recently filed reorganizations are pending, the diocese said.

Ours is not the first diocese to experience a reorganization, said Cote in a video message, calling the decision the most important news he's had to deliver during his 18 years leading the diocese.

Last October, a Roman Catholic diocese in New York Citys suburbs sought relief from a torrent of lawsuits filed after the state suspended the statute of limitations for suing over sexual abuse by priests. The Diocese of Rockville Centre, which encompasses much of Long Island and 1.4 million Catholics, said in filing for Chapter 11 protection that it will ask a bankruptcy court to put all cases on hold so that they they can be settled together  a process it says is more equitable but that victims say limits their ability to get at the truth.

The financial burden of the litigation has been severe and only compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, Bishop John Barres said in a video and letter on the dioceses website. Our goal is to make sure that all clergy sexual abuse survivors and not just a few who were first to file lawsuits are afforded just and equitable compensation.

The abuse accusations at the Academy at Mount Saint John School in Connecticut are not the only claims made against the Norwich Diocese. In a separate matter in 2019, Cote released the names of 43 priests who have served in the Connecticut diocese and have had allegations of substance made against them about the sexual abuse of minors since 1953. At that time, the Diocese had paid about $7.7 million since 1977 in settlements to victims in nine cases, with 23 still pending.

Cote said at the time he was grievously sorry.

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Associated Press Writer Pat Eaton-Robb contributed to this report.
HAVANA (AP)  Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel for the first time is offering some self-criticism while saying that government shortcomings in handling shortages and other problems played a role in this week's protests.

But in a televised address Wednesday night he also called on Cubans to not act with hate  a reference to the violence that occurred at some of the rare street demonstrations in which protesters voiced grievances over high prices, food shortages and power outages, while some people also called for a change in the government.

Until now, the Cuban government had only blamed social media and the U.S. government for the weekend protests, which were the biggest seen in Cuba since a quarter century ago, when then-President Fidel Castro personally went into the streets to calm crowds of thousands furious over dire shortages following the collapse of the Soviet Union and its economic subsidies for the island.

Diaz-Canel, however, said that failings by the state played a role in the unrest.

We have to gain experience from the disturbances," he said. We also have to carry out a critical analysis of our problems in order to act and overcome, and avoid their repetition.

In the protests, many Cubans expressed anger over long lines and shortages of food and medicines, as well as repeated electricity outages. Some demanded a faster pace of vaccination against the coronavirus. But there were also calls for political change in a country governed by the Communist Party for some six decades.

Police moved in and arrested dozens of protesters, sometimes violently, and the government has accused protesters of looting and vandalizing shops. Smaller protests continued Monday and officials reported at least one death. No incidents were reported Wednesday.

Our society is not a society that generates hatred and those people acted with hatred," Diaz-Canel said. The feeling of Cubans is a feeling of solidarity and these people carried out these armed acts, with vandalism ... yelling for deaths ... planning to raid public places, breaking, robbing, throwing stones.

Authorities did not report the number of people arrested, Col. Moraima Bravet of the Interior Ministry said Wednesday only that they are mostly between the ages of 25 and 37 and will be prosecuted such crimes as public disorder, assault, contempt, robbery or damage.

Cuba is suffering its worst crisis in years from a combination of the coronavirus pandemic that has paralyzed its economy, including the vital tourism industry, inefficiencies in the state-run economy and the tightening of U.S. sanctions on the island. The administration of President Donald Trump imposed more than 200 measures against the island in four years.

Diaz-Canel said that this complex situation was taken advantage of by those who do not really want the Cuban revolution to develop or a civilized relationship with respect with the United States."

Shortly before the presidents remarks, Prime Minister Manuel Marrero announced some measures such as customs flexibility for Cuban citizens who go on foreign trips to bring home toiletries, food and medicines, which are among the most hard to find items in Cuba.

Marrero also said that work is being done to improve the stability of the national electricity system and that officials will seek to improve the supply of medicines, many of which are produced on the island but whose inputs must be imported.

Meanwhile, Economy Minister Alejandro Gil announced the directors of state-owned enterprises will be allowed to determine salaries beyond the regulations. He also said that in the coming weeks long-promised rules will be instituted for small- and medium-size enterprises to be formed, a step once unthinkable under the communist government.
HAVANA (AP)  Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel on Wednesday acknowledged shortcomings in his government's handling of shortages and of neglecting certain sectors, but he urged Cubans to not act with hate  a reference to violence during recent street protests.

Until now, the Cuban government had only blamed social media and the U.S. government for the weekend protests, which were the biggest seen in Cuba since a quarter century ago, when then-President Fidel Castro personally went into the streets to calm crowds of thousands furious over dire shortages following the collapse of the Soviet Union and its economic subsidies for the island.

In a nighttime address on state television, Diaz-Canel for the first time was self critical and acknowledged that failings by the state played a role in the protests over food shortages, rising prices and other grievances.

We have to gain experience from the disturbances," he said. We also have to carry out a critical analysis of our problems in order to act and overcome, and avoid their repetition.

In the protests, many Cubans expressed anger over long lines and shortages of food and medicines, as well as repeated electricity outages. Some demanded a faster pace of vaccination against the coronavirus. But there were also calls for political change in a country governed by the Communist Party for some six decades.

Police moved in and arrested dozens of protesters, sometimes violently, and the government has accused protesters of looting and vandalizing shops. Smaller protests continued Monday and officials reported at least one death. No incidents were reported Wednesday.

Our society is not a society that generates hatred and those people acted with hatred," Diaz-Canel said. The feeling of Cubans is a feeling of solidarity and these people carried out these armed acts, with vandalism ... yelling for deaths ... planning to raid public places, breaking, robbing, throwing stones.

Authorities did not report the number of people arrested, Col. Moraima Bravet of the Interior Ministry said Wednesday only that they are mostly between the ages of 25 and 37 and will be prosecuted such crimes as public disorder, assault, contempt, robbery or damage.

Cuba is suffering its worst crisis in years from a combination of the coronavirus pandemic that has paralyzed its economy, including the vital tourism industry, inefficiencies in the state-run economy and the tightening of U.S. sanctions on the island. The administration of President Donald Trump imposed more than 200 measures against the island in four years.

Diaz-Canel said that this complex situation was taken advantage of by those who do not really want the Cuban revolution to develop or a civilized relationship with respect with the United States."

Shortly before the presidents remarks, Prime Minister Manuel Marrero announced some measures such as customs flexibility for Cuban citizens who go on foreign trips to bring home toiletries, food and medicines, which are among the most hard to find items in Cuba.

Marrero also said that work is being done to improve the stability of the national electricity system and that officials will seek to improve the supply of medicines, many of which are produced on the island but whose inputs must be imported.

Meanwhile, Economy Minister Alejandro Gil announced the directors of state-owned enterprises will be allowed to determine salaries beyond the regulations. He also said that in the coming weeks long-promised rules will be instituted for small- and medium-size enterprises to be formed, a step once unthinkable under the communist government.
SAVANNAH, Ga. (AP)  Defense attorneys for men charged in the slaying of Ahmaud Arbery are asking a Georgia judge to keep reporters out of the courtroom when lawyers question potential jurors to determine if they have biases in the widely publicized case.

Greg McMichael and Travis McMichael, a white father and son, are charged with murder in the February 2020 killing of Arbery, a 25-year-old Black man who was chased and shot after the McMichaels spotted him running in their neighborhood outside the coastal port city of Brunswick. A neighbor who joined the pursuit, William Roddie Bryan, was also charged with murder.

Jury selection in the three men's trial is scheduled to begin Oct. 18. Defense attorneys for the McMichaels filed a legal motion Wednesday that proposes three main steps. Jury pool members would first answer a written questionnaire. Then they would be brought one at a time into the courtroom for questioning by the judge and lawyers. Finally, potential jurors would face additional questions in groups of 12.

The legal filing by the McMichaels' attorneys requests that no press will be permitted to be present when potential jurors are questioned individually about what they've heard about the case and whether issues with race or other matters might make it hard for them to be fair and impartial.

Superior Court Judge Timothy Walmsley has not weighed in on the request. Neither have prosecutors. Under Georgia law, court proceedings including jury selection are presumed to be open to the press and the public, though judges can restrict access in rare circumstances.

Arbery's killing sparked a national outcry last year amid protests over racial injustice. The McMichaels armed themselves with guns and pursued Arbery in a pickup truck when they spotted him running in their neighborhood Feb. 23, 2020. Bryan joined the chase and took cellphone video of Travis McMichael shooting Arbery three times at close range with a shotgun.

All three defendants have said they committed no crimes. Defense attorneys say the McMichaels had a valid reason to pursue Arbery, thinking he was a burglar, and that Travis McMichael shot him in self-defense as Arbery grappled for his shotgun.

Whether an impartial jury can be seated in coastal Glynn County, where the killing occurred 70 miles (112 kilometers) south of Savannah, remains a major question.

In their court motion, defense attorneys say it's critical that potential jurors feel as comfortable as possible answering questions about race and other sensitive topics to ensure the McMichaels are tried by an impartial jury.

We must create the best environment for jurors to share their true thoughts, beliefs, biases, and prejudices about very sensitive subjects, Jason Sheffield, an attorney for Travis McMichael, said in an email Thursday. Having the media blast their answers all over the nation will undoubtedly have a chilling effect on the truthfulness of their answers to our questions.

The motion to exclude reporters from a key part of jury selection clashes with decisions by the U.S. Supreme Court as well as the Georgia Supreme Court that heavily favor public access to court proceedings, said Gerry Weber, a constitutional and civil rights attorney who's a former legal director for the American Civil Liberties Union of Georgia.

A judge has limited authority to clear a courtroom, such as to allow a potential juror to answer specific questions that might deal with private or confidential information, Weber said, but that requires an individual assessment each time a courtroom is closed.

There cant be a blanket rule that individual questions are going to be secreted from the public, Weber said. The way that its framed as a blanket rule, I dont think a judge would approve that.

The judge has scheduled a hearing with attorneys next Thursday to discuss pretrial motions and jury selection.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  Los Angeles County will again require masks be worn indoors in the nation's largest county, even by those vaccinated against the coronavirus, while the University of California system also said Thursday that students, faculty and staff must be inoculated against the disease to return to campuses.

The announcements come amid a sharp increase in virus cases, many of them the highly transmissible delta variant that has proliferated since California fully reopened its economy on June 15 and did away with capacity limits and social distancing. The vast majority of new cases are among unvaccinated people.

The rapid and sustained increase in cases in Los Angeles County requires restoring an indoor mask mandate, said Dr. Muntu Davis, public health officer for the county's 10 million people. The public health order will go into effect just before midnight Saturday.

This is an all-hands-on-deck moment, Davis said during a virtual news conference.

He didn't fully detail what would be some exceptions to the mask rule but said, for example, people could still take off their masks while eating and drinking at restaurants.

Davis said officials will focus on education rather than enforcement. Handing out citations to people who dont comply is not something we really want to have to do, he said.

Los Angeles County has been recording more than 1,000 new cases each day for a week, and there is now substantial community transmission," Davis said. On Thursday, there were 1,537 new cases, and hospitalizations have now topped 400.

The next level is high transmission, and thats not a place where we want to be, he said.

It comes after a winter where Los Angeles County experienced a massive surge in infections and deaths, with hospitals overloaded with COVID-19 patients and ambulances idling outside, waiting for beds to open.

Now, hospitalizations in California are above 1,700, the highest level since April. More than 3,600 cases were reported Thursday, the most since late February, but a far cry from the winter peak that saw an average of more than 40,000 per day.

Other counties, including Sacramento and Yolo, are strongly urging people to wear masks indoors but not requiring it.

The drastic increase in cases is concerning  as is the number of people choosing not to get vaccinated, Sacramento County Public Health Officer Olivia Kasirye said.

The Los Angeles County decision came within hours of the University of California's announcement that students, faculty and staff must be vaccinated for the upcoming semester.

UC President Michael V. Drake said in a letter to the systems 10 chancellors that unvaccinated students without approved exemptions will be barred from in-person classes, events and campus facilities, including housing.

Vaccination is by far the most effective way to prevent severe disease and death after exposure to the virus and to reduce spread of the disease to those who are not able, or not yet eligible, to receive the vaccine, Drake wrote.

He said the decision came after consulting UC infectious disease experts and reviewing evidence from studies on the dangers of COVID-19 and emerging variants like the delta strain.

In San Francisco, cases are rising among the unvaccinated. Black and Latino people are getting shots at a lower rate than others, and Mayor London Breed urged them to get the vaccine.

She said Thursday that every person hospitalized with COVID-19 at San Francisco General Hospital is unvaccinated and most are African American.

San Francisco Supervisor Shamann Walton said the highest number of cases are in the Bayview district, a largely Black neighborhood, because we are not doing everything we can to protect each other. This is a cry to my community. ... We need you to get vaccinated.

San Francisco has one of the highest overall vaccination rates in the nation's most populated state. At least 83% of residents 12 and older have received at least one dose.

Meanwhile, north of San Francisco, at least 59 residents at a homeless shelter have tested positive for the virus. Of those infected at the Santa Rosa shelter, 28 were fully vaccinated, Dr. Sundari Mase, Sonoma Countys health officer, said Wednesday. Officials were reviewing an additional 26 possible positive cases.

Of those with confirmed infections at Samuel L. Jones Hall, nine were hospitalized, including six who were fully vaccinated and had multiple, significant underlying health conditions, including diabetes and pulmonary disease, health officials said.

Fewer than half of the shelter's 153 residents had received at least a partial vaccination, officials said, and they don't know if the outbreak started with a vaccinated or unvaccinated resident.

We know congregate settings are at much higher risk, Mase said. We also know there is a very high proportion of unvaccinated individuals that were in this setting.

Most of the 69 vaccinated residents had received the single-shot Johnson & Johnson dose, but Mase said it was hard to determine whether that was a factor in the outbreak.

Vaccines decrease the severity of the illness, reduce hospitalizations and decrease the risk of death. Clinical trials showed that a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 72% effective against moderate to severe COVID-19 in the United States, compared with 95% for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines.

A Food and Drug Administration analysis cautioned that its not clear how well the vaccines work against each variant.

So-called breakthrough cases among the fully vaccinated are unusual. Between Jan. 1 and June 30, California identified 8,699 such cases out of the more than 20 million who have received the vaccine.

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Associated Press writer Olga R. Rodriguez and Jocelyn Gecker in San Francisco contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON - Deaths from drug overdoses soared to more than 93,000 last year, a staggering record that reflects the coronavirus pandemic's toll on efforts to quell the crisis and the continued spread of the synthetic opioid fentanyl in the illegal narcotic supply, the government reported Wednesday.

The death toll jumped by more than 21,000, or nearly 30%, from 2019, according to provisional data released by the National Center for Health Statistics, eclipsing the record set that year.

The increase came as no surprise to addiction specialists, drug counselors and policy experts who have watched the steady rise in deaths throughout the pandemic. But that did not make the statistics any less horrifying.

"Every one of those people, somebody loved them," said Keith Humphreys, a psychiatry professor at Stanford University and an expert on addiction and drug policy. "It's terrifying. It's the biggest increase in overdose deaths in the history of the United States, it's the worst overdose crisis in the history of the United States, and we're not making progress. It's really overwhelming."

The estimated number of overdose deaths reached 93,331 in 2020, according to the new data. Annual final numbers usually differ little from provisional figures like those released Wednesday. More than 900,000 people have died of overdoses since the U.S. drug epidemic began in about 1999, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The National Center for Health Statistics is part of the CDC.

Opioids, primarily illegal fentanyl, continued to drive the death toll, as they have for years. Overdose deaths involving opioids reached 69,710 in 2020, up from 50,963 in 2019, according to the data. Deaths from methamphetamine and cocaine also rose.

Nora Volkow, head of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, said in an interview that fentanyl has so thoroughly infiltrated the illegal drug supply that 70% of cocaine overdose deaths and 50% of methamphetamine overdose deaths also involved fentanyl.

In many cases, she said, users are unaware that their drugs are laced with the powerful painkiller, which can halt breathing even if a minute amount is ingested. In other cases, users knowingly take multiple drugs.

"Most of the deaths are from multiple drugs," she said.

But unlike past years, 2020 brought the added complications of a worldwide viral pandemic. Health-care resources were stretched and redirected toward the emergency. Anti-addiction medication was more difficult to obtain. Stress increased dramatically. Users were more isolated, leading to additional overdoses because other people were not nearby to summon first responders or administer the opioid antidote naloxone, experts said.

"The pandemic has led to increased substance use across the board, as people have sought to manage stress, isolation, boredom, anxiety, depression, unemployment, relationship and child care issues, and housing instability," Kimberly Sue, medical director of the National Harm Reduction Coalition, an advocacy group that tries to prevent overdose deaths, said in an email.

Sue, an addiction specialist at Yale University, also said the pandemic limited drug users' access to anti-addiction medication such as buprenorphine and methadone, in addition to naloxone.

With covid-19 having killed more than 300,000 people last year, "we took our eye off the opioid epidemic," said Tami Mark, a senior fellow at the think tank RTI International. "When we weren't looking, it got horribly worse."

Humphreys said Congress too often has treated drug addiction as a short-term issue rather than a chronic problem like cancer and other diseases.

"We keep thinking it's a short-term thing, and we just need one oomph to get past it. It's not like that," he said.

The most populous state, California, saw an increase in fatalities of 45.9% from December 2019 to December 2020, according to the new data. In Vermont, deaths rose by 57.6%, the largest increase in the country, followed closely by Kentucky at 53.7%.

Nationally, the number of overdose deaths was more than double the estimated number of motor vehicle fatalities. Those rose slightly to 42,617, despite shutdowns forced by the pandemic.

A modest dip in fatalities between 2017 and 2018 led Alex Azar, the Trump administration's secretary of Health and Human Services, to proclaim progress against the drug crisis. But fatalities soon surged again before rocketing upward last year.

"I'm just heartbroken," National Institutes of Health Director Francis Collins said in an interview. "We have another public health crisis, of major proportions. It's not infectious, but is spreading across our county and taking far too many lives."

Drug overdose fatalities have been increasing for much of the past quarter-century, a period when they became one of the leading causes of death in the United States and helped fuel small declines in overall life expectancy - a dismal sign for a developed nation with one of the most sophisticated health-care systems in the world.

There are some signs that the Biden administration and Congress are preparing to renew efforts to address what was the nation's most serious public health crisis before the pandemic. President Joe Biden on Tuesday nominated former West Virginia public health official Rahul Gupta to be his drug czar. Gupta has cited the shift from in-person care during the pandemic as one of the contributors to increased addiction-related public health problems.

The Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control will hold a hearing next week on how to move forward against the drug crisis.

The White House has insisted that battling the overdose epidemic is an "urgent priority," laying out a first-year slate of goals that include boosting harm reduction efforts and strengthening recovery supports. Biden's proposed budget also calls for investing $41 billion in national drug program agencies - about $670 million more than the enacted FY 2021 level - with increased funding for evidence-based treatment and prevention services.

Volkow said the country must continue to remove obstacles that make it difficult for users to gain access to addiction medications such as methadone, buprenorphine and monthly injections of naltrexone.

During the pandemic, for example, users were allowed a four-week supply of methadone, which typically must be obtained in daily doses at clinics. In April, the Biden administration eased restrictions that had limited prescribing of buprenorphine by doctors and other health-care practitioners.

It's time for the government to "provide medications for opioid use disorder for everyone who needs them, with no restrictions on cost or availability," Volkow said.

- - -

The Washington Post's Dan Diamond contributed to this report.
THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP)  Peter R. de Vries, a renowned Dutch journalist who fearlessly reported on the violent underworld of the Netherlands and campaigned to breathe new life into cold cases, has died at age 64 after being shot in a brazen attack last week, his family said Thursday.

Peter fought to the end, but was unable to win the battle, the family said in a statement sent to Dutch media.

While the motive for de Vries' shooting remains unknown, the July 6 attack on an Amsterdam street had the hallmarks of the gangland hits taking place with increasing regularity in the Dutch underworld the journalist covered.

Two suspects have been detained. Dutch police said the suspected shooter is a 21-year-old Dutchman, and a 35-year-old Polish man living in the Netherlands is accused of driving the getaway car. They were arrested not long after de Vries was wounded.

De Vries rose rapidly from a young cub reporter to become the Netherlands best-known journalist. He was a pillar of support for families of slain or missing children, a campaigner against injustice and a thorn in the side of gangsters.

Peter has lived by his conviction: On bended knee is no way to be free, the family statement said. We are unbelievably proud of him and at the same time inconsolable.

De Vries had been fighting for his life in an Amsterdam hospital since the attack. The statement said he died surrounded by loved ones and requested privacy for de Vries family and partner to process his death in peace. Funeral arrangements were not immediately announced.

The shooting happened after de Vries made one of his regular appearances on a current affairs television show. He had recently been an adviser and confidant for a witness in the trial of the alleged leader and other members of a crime gang that police described as an oiled killing machine..

The suspected gangland leader, Ridouan Taghi, was extradited to the Netherlands from Dubai in 2019. He remains jailed while standing trial along with 16 other suspects.

Caretaker Prime Minister Mark Rutte led the tributes to de Vries in the Netherlands.

Peter R. de Vries was always dedicated, tenacious, afraid of nothing and no one. Always seeking the truth and standing up for justice, Rutte said in a tweet. And that makes it all the more dramatic that he himself has now become the victim of a great injustice.

Dutch King Willem Alexander last week called the shooting of de Vries an attack on journalism, the cornerstone of our constitutional state and therefore also an attack on the rule of law.

The slaying also struck a chord elsewhere in Europe, where murders of reporters are rare. The killings of journalists in Slovakia and Malta in recent years have raised concerns about reporters safety in developed, democratic societies.

In a tweet, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was deeply saddened by the news of Peter R. de Vries passing. I want to express my condolences to his family and loved ones."

She added: Investigative journalists are vital to our democracies. We must do everything we can to protect them.

De Vries won an International Emmy in 2008 for a television show he made about the disappearance of U.S. teenager Natalee Holloway while she was on holiday in the Dutch Caribbean island of Aruba in 2005.

In 2018, while acting as a spokesman for the family of an 11-year-old boy who was abused and killed in 1998, de Vries appealed for tips about the whereabouts of a suspect identified in a DNA probe.

I cant live with the idea that he wont be arrested, de Vries said when appealing for help at a televised press conference. I wont rest until it happens.

The suspect was arrested a few weeks later in Spain and convicted last year in the death of the boy, Nicky Verstappen.

De Vries comment about the suspect in Nicky's slaying summed up the tenacity that was a cornerstone of a career that saw him report on some of the Netherlands most notorious crimes, including the 1983 kidnapping of beer magnate Freddy Heineken.

Acting on a tip, de Vries tracked down one of the kidnappers in Paraguay in 1994.

He befriended another of the kidnappers, Cor van Hout, who was later gunned down in Amsterdam. Another of the kidnappers, Willem Holleeder, who was van Houts brother-in-law, was convicted in 2019 of inciting the killings of van Hout and four other people. Holleeder was sentenced to life imprisonment.

De Vries also was known for tenaciously campaigning to find the truth behind the 1994 slaying of a 23-year-old woman, Christel Ambrosius. Two men from the town where she was killed were convicted in 1995 and sentenced to 10 years imprisonment, but de Vries refused to believe they were guilty.

They were acquitted in 2002, and in 2008, another man was convicted of Ambrosius' killing.

Justice Minister Ferd Grapperhaus issued a statement calling de Vries a brave man who lived without compromise. He would not allow himself to be intimidated by criminals.

Grapperhaus said he tracked down injustice throughout his life. By doing so he made an enormous contribution to our democratic state. He was part of its foundation.
MARIANNA, Fla. (AP)  A former Florida sheriff's deputy received a 12-year prison sentence for planting drugs inside drivers' cars during traffic stops and then arresting them.

Former Jackson County deputy Zachary Wester, 28, did not speak at Tuesday's hearing. He was convicted in May on 19 of 67 counts, including racketeering, official misconduct, fabricating evidence, perjury, false imprisonment and possession of controlled substances and drug paraphernalia.

Internal affairs investigators found the drugs hidden inside Westers patrol car in the summer of 2018, shortly before he was suspended. Prosecutors say it was ready-to-plant evidence that Wester used during his traffic stops. Body camera video also showed Wester holding what appeared to be baggies filled with drugs surreptitiously before searching cars after stopping them.

Prosecutors had to drop charges in nearly 120 cases involving Wester that occurred between 2016 and 2018 because of the accusations that he planted evidence.

Prosecutor Tom Williams had asked Circuit Judge James Goodman to sentence Wester to 15 years, saying he committed an egregious breach of the publics trust."

People voluntarily grant their government awesome powers they deem necessary for public safety and protection, he said. With that great power comes great responsibility. The defendant made choices to violate that trust and committed crimes against those people he was sworn to protect.

Teresa Odom, one of Wester's victims, told the judge the deputy had ruined her reputation and deprived her of time with her grandchild. Wester had stopped her for a defective brake light in 2018 and asked for permission to search her truck. She agreed. He claimed he found a baggie of methamphetamine in her purse  but body camera video showed him palming a bag before beginning his search.

Odom, who vehemently denied the drugs were hers when confronted by Wester, later pleaded no contest and received four years probation. That conviction has been thrown out.

You robbed me of my credibility and being a mother and grandmother over the last two and a half years, she said. I wish you no ill will. But youll never know what you did to me until you have children of your own.

Wester's wife Rebecca and others begged Judge Goodman for leniency, saying he is a good, churchgoing man who volunteers in his community. More than 50 people sent letters to the judge in support of Wester.

When that career ended, suddenly I watched a part of him and myself as well die, Rebecca Wester said. This blow is one that will not be overcome quickly, and honestly one we may never overcome. The Zach that is in the court before you today is a mighty man of God. Has been greatly missed, but the place he has been missed the most is in our home.

Jackson County is located in the Florida Panhandle, northwest of Tallahassee.
MISSION, Kansas (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions that was enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, has been the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and have fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing that they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rent.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they would face eviction within the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Kansas:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Last month, top Republican lawmakers rescinded the executive order from Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly that imposed the states pandemic ban on evictions and foreclosures. That left only the CDC moratorium, which offered slightly different protections.

The state moratorium had been in effect since August. Kelly also issued an eviction moratorium in March 2020 but let it expire two months later. When the latest Kansas moratorium was lifted, Kelly spokeswoman Reeves Oyster said GOP leaders had decided to kick people out of their homes. Republicans have argued that the states moratorium prevents landlords from getting paid.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Kansas has received two rounds of federal rental aid  $200 million in one and $20 million in the other. As of mid-June, the Kansas Housing Resources Corp. had distributed $5.5 million from the largest pot to about 950 of the 7,780 households that applied (Wichita is the only community not served by the housing corporation). The money can go toward 15 months of rent, utilities and internet expenses.

The state also distributed $17 million in rental aid from the smaller pot, said Emily Sharp, a spokeswoman for the agency.

One challenge is that both tenants and landlords must apply to access some of the money, but certain landlords are saying, No, I just want you out," said Casey Johnson, an attorney for Kansas Legal Services, a nonprofit law firm. Some tenants also have refused to fill out the paperwork, making it impossible for landlords to collect any money, said Steve Vogel, the head of the Shawnee County Landlords Association. Johnson speculated that tenants might be resistant because they remain protected from eviction by the soon-to-expire CDC moratorium.

The state is anticipating an additional $150 million later this year.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

In Johnson County, the state's most populous, eviction proceedings are still conducted remotely. Many counties are now handling such cases in person or as a hybrid.

It's impossible to tell whether more Kansans were kicked out of their homes during the pandemic because the state lumps its eviction data into a broader category that also includes landlord disputes, debt collection and employment discrimination, said Lisa Taylor, a spokeswoman for the state's Office of Judicial Administration. But Johnson, of Kansas Legal Services, said landlords are increasingly finding reasons beyond nonpayment to evict tenants, such as not cleaning well enough or having an unauthorized pet. He said some landlords are not renewing leases when they expire. A Johnson County judge has found that the CDC moratorium is not enforceable and is proceeding with evictions.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Kansas has among the nation's most affordable housing markets, said Kirk Mcclure, a retired professor of urban planning for the University of Kansas and a contract worker for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. He said only the Deep South is cheaper.

From 2015 to 2019, rent for a two-bedroom apartment increased by 7.9%, which was far below the national average of 15.4%, according to the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey. The vacancy rate was 7.8% before the pandemic, which was above the 6% national average.

As of May, the median monthly rent in the Kansas City metropolitan area was 4.6% higher than a year before, at $1,109, according to a report released June 16 by Realtor.com. The median rent for a two-bedroom apartment in the area was $1,319.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Kansas advocates for the homeless are bracing for a spike in people entering shelters or moving in with relatives. One indication is recent census survey data showing that 18,107 people believe they could be evicted within the next two months.

The process could move quickly: Kansas has one of the shortest timeframes in the country for evicting tenants who fall behind on rent. Johnson said landlords must merely send them a notice that gives renters three days to pay in full. After that, landlords can get a court order that gives the county sheriff 14 days to remove them.

Vogel, of the Shawnee County Landlords Association, said landlords are not eager about any of this. But he added: It is just like having a job but not getting paid. You just cant sustain that because they still have all their costs.

The Salvation Army in Wichita has already seen an increase in calls from people asking for shelter, said Jami Scott, the organizations director of homeless services.

Unfortunately, the money that has been flooded into the community to help people pay their bills, a lot of that money is drying up, and it is going to be really difficult for us to be able to get people into housing," she said.
PHOENIX (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, is the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and have fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without more time, advocates foresee a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Arizona:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Arizona was among several states that enacted a moratorium last year halting eviction proceedings. That measure expired Oct. 31, leaving only the CDC moratorium.

It's unknown what will happen Aug. 1 after the CDC's ban ends, according to officials with Maricopa Countys Justice Courts, which handle the bulk of Arizona's evictions. They and housing advocates say they don't expect too many evictions related to the end of CDC protections for at least 10 days to two weeks after the moratorium runs out.

Preliminary Maricopa County Justice Court numbers show that 2,615 eviction lawsuits were filed in May, about double the number during the same month last year but around half of the 5,817 filed in May 2019.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

To help tenants with outstanding rent and other expenses, Arizona has received about $900 million, about half from emergency rental assistance approved by Congress in December, with another big chunk from the American Rescue Plan. Renters earning 80% or less of the area median income and who meet Treasury Department requirements qualify.

About $289 million of the assistance is being distributed by Arizonas Department of Economic Securitys emergency rental program to 12 of the states smaller rural counties. But the agency acknowledges so far only about $7.3 million of that has gone to 1,715 approved applicants. Local governments are distributing federal rental assistance money in larger Maricopa, Pima and Yuma counties.

Tenants, landlords and advocates complain the distribution process has been slow because of cumbersome federal requirements.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Eviction hearings in Arizona continue to be held remotely, and the CDC moratorium has meant that thousands of eviction lawsuits have been stayed. But Arizona housing advocates and court officials note that eviction lawsuits have proceeded in cases where tenants failed to file the required declaration for protection, missed a hearing or otherwise didn't follow rules. Still, evictions filings in Arizona dropped statewide from 87,933 in the 2019 fiscal year to 74,013 in 2020 fiscal year ending June 30, 2020.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Arizona has a tight rental housing market, driven in part by a strong economy and an ongoing flood of people moving to the state from California and the Midwest, squeezing an already limited supply of affordable housing.

Greater Phoenix has seen some of the fastest-rising rents in the United States, with growth soaring into the double digits in several trend reports over the past year.

As of May, the median monthly rent in the Phoenix metro area had risen 16.8% over the last year to $1,543, according to a report released June 16 by Realtor.com. Median rents for a two-bedroom apartment are $1,800.

Low rental vacancy rates haven't helped, standing at 5.2% in Arizona and 6.3% in metro Phoenix during the first quarter of 2021, below the 6.8% national average for the period, according to census data. Construction of multifamily homes has been steady, but insufficient for demand.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Its hard to say how much homelessness will increase in Arizona. One indication might be census data showing 37,525 state residents are concerned about the possibility of eviction in the next two months.

It would be hard for homelessness not to increase, said Chris Groninger, the Arizona Bar Foundation's chief strategy officer and tenant advocate.



Follow Anita Snow: https://twitter.com/asnowreports .
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Oregon:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Oregon is one of several states that enacted a moratorium last year halting eviction proceedings for residents who have experienced financial hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the measure expired in June. As experts warned about a mass wave of evictions in the state, lawmakers and the governor passed and implemented additional safety nets for struggling tenants.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Oregon set aside $200 million in federal emergency assistance to help tenants and landlords with current and outstanding rent. Based on data from Oregon Housing and Community Services, approximately 15,000 households have completed applications for rent assistance.

While Oregon has millions of dollars available to pay past-due rent, high demand created a backlog that officials said would not be cleared before the end of the state eviction moratorium. As a result, in June Oregon lawmakers passed a Safe Harbor amendment on Senate Bill 278 to pause evictions. Under the amendment, which received bipartisan support, tenants who are unable to pay July or August rent will not be evicted for 60 days if they provide proof to their landlord that they have applied for rental assistance. The bill was signed by Gov. Kate Brown, a Democrat, last month.

In addition, commissioners in Multnomah County  Oregons most populous county and home to Portland  voted earlier this month to extend the Safe Harbor amendment through the end of September.

Multnomah County Chair Deborah Kafoury said the demand for rental assistance in the county that includes Portland is estimated to be twice as high as all other Oregon counties combined. Officials say an additional month will give service providers more time to process and distribute funds to struggling tenants.

In addition, earlier this year Oregon lawmakers voted to extend the grace period for past-due rent during the moratorium, allowing tenants to have until Feb. 28, 2022, to pay back rent.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

As the state braces for evictions, courts are also hastily preparing for an influx of evictions.

We are closely monitoring the situation, but there continue to be a lot of unknowns and variables that will affect court workload and processes, said Todd Sprague, a spokesperson for the Oregon Judicial Department.

The Chief Justice Order directs courts to schedule eviction proceedings as soon as practicable, but allows them to schedule first appearances within 14 days and any trial within 30 days, both of which are double the normal time.

In addition retired judges are being assigned to courts that need short-term assistance. Some circuit courts are exploring mediation as well.

WHAT IS THE AFFORDABILITY IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

The cost of renting an apartment in Oregon's most populous city, Portland, plummeted in 2020 amid the pandemic  at its peak dropping more than 7%. However, this year the cost of renting has slowly started to increase again.

The Oregonian reported that, from March to April this year, Portland apartment rents increased by 1.8% from, with median rents sitting at $1,153 for a one-bedroom apartment and $1,344 for a two-bedroom apartment. However, at the time the cost of renting an apartment in Portland was still down 4% as compared with last April.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Oregon had a housing crisis before the pandemic and since then it has only been exacerbated. Its hard to say exactly how much homelessness will increase in Oregon.

However, one indication of the scope of the problem is census data in May showing 53% of Oregon renters who responded to a survey  or more than 27,000 renters  said that it was very likely or somewhat likely that they would be evicted from their home.

___

Sara Cline is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month.

The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation Vermont:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Vermont is one of several states that enacted its own moratorium last year halting eviction proceedings. The law, passed in May 2020, paused all evictions in Vermont until 30 days after the state of emergency was lifted. It was declared by Gov. Phil Scott in March 2020 to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. The state of emergency was allowed to expire on June 15, after the state reached its goal of vaccinating 80% of its eligible population. For cases of a breach of a rental agreement, the evictions could proceed immediately. For all other evictions, including nonpayment of rent and no-cause evictions, landlords would have been able to proceed after July 15. It's unclear how the federal extension will affect Vermont.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

On April 5, 2021, The Vermont Emergency Rental Assistance Program began administering $110 million for the Vermont State Housing Authority. It is accepting applications from tenants and landlords. Tenants can pay back rent to April 1, 2020, and utility bills that include electric, gas, fuel oil, wood and pellets. To qualify, a household must have an income at or below 80% of the median income for the area where they live. Landlords can be paid directly for both back and in some cases future rent.

While there are funds available, Vermont Public Radio reports that only 16% of the just over 3,000 applications submitted to the state have received funds.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

After the moratorium ends, there is going to be a backlog of eviction cases in the court system.

The courts were already understaffed, but Vermont State Rep. Tom Stevens, a Democrat who is the chair of the House Committee on General, Housing and Military Affairs, said he hoped the rental assistance programs will ease the strain on the courts and the evictions.

Considering that upward of 75% of eviction cases pre-COVID were about back rent, one would hope that the landlords and tenants would be able to work out a solution so they could both access this program, which is very, very generous, Stevens said.

WHAT IS THE AFFORDABILITY IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

The pandemic made Vermonts already tight housing market even tighter, with owners in some places converting their apartments into short-term rentals.

According to the Vermont Affordable Housing Coalition, in 2018 the state had a 4.1% rental vacancy rate  the fifth-lowest in the country. Almost half of Vermont renters are cost burdened, meaning they pay more than 30% of their income for housing. The average Vermonter needs to earn $22.78 an hour to afford a two-bedroom apartment, but the average Vermont renter earns $13.40 an hour.

We are not approaching a housing crisis, we have a housing crisis, said Stevens.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Its hard to say how much homelessness will increase in Vermont. One indication of the scope of the problem is census data from early June showing more than 9,500 state residents are concerned that they could face eviction over the next two months.
DENVER (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Colorado:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Colorados Gov. Jared Polis joined other states in halting evictions during the early months of the coronavirus pandemic, but he allowed the order to expire in 2021, leaving only the CDC moratorium. The governor had also issued orders preventing landlords from assessing fees for late rent until the end of 2020.

While many pandemic-era orders expired with the start of the new year, the state has extended executive orders till the end of June that require landlords serve 30-day rent demands rather than the original 10-day notices.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Colorado received $247 million for rental and utility assistance from the federal government and distributes the money through the Colorado Emergency Rental Assistance Program. The funds are eligible for people who make less than 80% of the area median income where they live and can be used for owed rent, plus another two months. Several nonprofits in the state are also offering aid for food and utility bills.

The Legislature passed a bill, currently awaiting the governor's signature, that limits late fees and prohibits landlords from evicting tenants solely from their failure to pay late fees. Meanwhile, the Denver City Council is awaiting approval from Mayor Michael Hancock for a bill to provide free legal representation in court for those facing eviction.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Jurisdictions are handling court proceedings differently, but many of them are in the process of going back to in-person.

More than 8,200 evictions have been filed in state courts since the beginning of 2021  almost equivalent to the same time last year, according to state judicial data. Pre-pandemic, from January to June 2019, there were more than 18,600 evictions filed  a decrease of about 57% in cases filed in the last two years.

WHAT IS THE AFFORDABILITY IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Colorado has some of the highest housing costs of landlocked states comparable to urbanized coastal regions, said Jonathan Cappelli, director of the Neighborhood Development Collaborative, a group of metro-Denver nonprofits which aim to provide affordable housing.

Currently, 50.9% of Colorado renter households are cost burdened, with housing taking up more than 30% of total household income and 26% of renters are severely cost-burdened, with rent occupying more than 50% of household income  making Colorado the fourth most expensive state in the country after Florida, California and New York, according to data from the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University.

Like many states, the recession brought a large number of foreclosures in low-income and minority-majority neighborhoods. Those properties were often bought by investors who flipped or rented the homes in a way that drove up land values and led to gentrification pressures on neighboring households, Cappelli said.

During the pandemic, populous cities like Denver, Fort Collins and Boulder saw relatively low increases in median rent  between one and four percent. Other metro areas like Greeley and Colorado Springs saw rates increase by 5.1% and 9%, meaning for a median rental unit, rents have increased anywhere from $20 to $135 per month, depending on the location, said Brett McPherson, spokesperson for the state Department of Local Affairs.

These increases in rental rates are not exceptional by historical standards. Rents in the Denver metropolitan area are estimated to have increased by 20% between January 2014 and 2015, he added.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

The Metro Denver Homeless Initiative found more than 6,100 individuals experiencing homelessness in the Denver metro region for their Point in Time survey on a night in January 2020. The visibility of homeless encampments throughout the capital has lead to numerous sweeps by the city and has been met with anger and frustration by activists for the lack of public solutions, especially during a pandemic.

The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities says that 1 in 7 renters nationwide were "not caught up on rent, according to census data. For Colorado, 15%, or around 197,000 people, are behind on rent, facing the possibility of eviction.

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Nieberg is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Louisiana:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Louisiana is one of several states that enacted a moratorium last year halting eviction proceedings. The measure expired on June 5, 2020, leaving only the CDC moratorium. Housing advocacy groups have urged Gov. John Bel Edwards, a Democrat, to implement another Louisiana-based freeze on evictions, so far to no avail.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Louisiana received a $308 million share of federal rental assistance passed by Congress in December to help tenants and landlords affected by the pandemic. More money is expected from the federal coronavirus relief package passed earlier this year.

Edwards announced in March that the state would divvy up $161 million of the December allocation through a program run by the Louisiana Housing Corporation covering rental assistance in 57 of Louisiana's parishes. The remaining money would go to the seven largest parishes  Caddo, Calcasieu, East Baton Rouge, Jefferson, Lafayette, Orleans and St. Tammany  directly from the U.S. Treasury to run their own programs.

Through the state program, the rental assistance can go toward past-due rent and utility fees dating back to April 2020, along with up to three months of future rent payments for those deemed eligible. Priority is given to households where one person has been unemployed for more than 90 days and to households earning less than 50% of the area median income. But others are eligible.

Assistance is moving slowly.

By mid-June, $8.8 million in rental and utility assistance had been paid through the program, with another $1.1 million approved for tenants, according to the Louisiana Housing Corporation. Nearly 20,000 tenants have started applications for the aid, but only about 1,700 have been approved.

Meanwhile, frustrated tenants seeking aid from the parish-run programs also have complained about the sluggish pace of help.

I think it is a dereliction of government's duty to let landlords put people on the street when there is money on the table to help them, said Cashauna Hill, executive director of the Louisiana Fair Housing Action Center. We need to adjust the timelines to end the moratorium until theres been enough time to distribute the money.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Eviction hearings have continued in Louisiana throughout the pandemic.

Laura Tuggle, the New Orleans-based executive director of Southeast Louisiana Legal Services, said landlords have found ways to avoid the federal freeze on evictions by using other reasons to oust people from their housing, such as noise levels or property damage.

Our attorneys, they would say, What eviction moratorium?" Tuggle said. In Louisiana, our staff are busier than they have ever been because evictions have never stopped.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Louisiana is ranked among the middle of states for apartment affordability, according to a 2020 report from the National Low Income Housing Coalition. Vacancy rates across the state were about 8% before the pandemic, above the 7% national average. But that doesn't necessarily hold true in the New Orleans area, which struggled with affordable housing shortages even before the pandemic.

As of May, the median monthly rent in the New Orleans and Metairie area had risen 8% over the last year to $1,350, according to a report released June 16 by Realtor.com. Median rents for a two-bedroom apartment rose 11% in the area to $1,550. One factor prompting the increase is pandemic-related delays in building more multi-family homes.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Its hard to say how much homelessness will increase in Louisiana. One indication of the scope of the problem is U.S. Census data showing nearly 69,000 state residents expressing concern that they could be evicted over the next two months.

But the Louisiana Fair Housing Action Center and dozens of other advocacy groups warned Edwards in a letter that more than 101,000 households in Louisiana have reported being behind on their rent payments  nearly half of them households with children.

Tuggle worried the end of the federal eviction moratorium, combined with Edwards announcement that hell turn off federal pandemic unemployment assistance at the end of July, will cause an explosion in homelessness.

Once landlords can file for nonpayment of rent, the defenses are extremely limited in the state of Louisiana, she said.
INDIANAPOLIS (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions that was enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, has been the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and have fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing that they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rent.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they would face eviction within the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Indiana:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Indiana is one of several states that enacted a moratorium last year halting eviction proceedings. The measure expired in August, though. The CDC's moratorium has been in place since September.

Andrew Bradley, policy director for Prosperity Indiana, said more than 45,000 eviction filings have been made in Indiana during the pandemic, including nearly 16,000 in the Indianapolis metropolitan area.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Housing officials said theyre reaching out to landlords in an attempt to reduce the number of impending evictions and are encouraging anyone who may be at risk of eviction to apply for rental assistance through their areas housing authority.

Andrew Merkley, a housing specialist for the Indianapolis Office of Public Health and Safety, said more funding from the federal American Rescue Plan can be budgeted toward rental assistance if state and local governments choose to do so, noting that Indianapolis has already granted more than $10 million to nearly 4,000 households within the past two months.

Jacob Sipe, executive director of the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority, said the state's emergency program required only $10 million of the $371 million Indiana received from the federal government to administer rental assistance programs, however. Although that funding has assisted more than 7,000 renters by providing up to four monthly payments of up to $500, or a years worth of utility bills, Sipe said program applications have slowed in recent weeks.

By September, 60%, or $222.6 million, of the money needs to be spent or earmarked. All of the money must be spent or assigned to renters by the end of the year.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Anticipating spikes in eviction petitions filed after the statewide moratorium lifted last summer, the Indiana Supreme Court's Landlord Tenant Task Force encouraged landlords and tenants to talk to each other, explore options, discuss payment plans and put all agreements in writing. Procedures and practices have varied across the state, though many courts have launched mediation programs to provide an alternative to evictions.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Indiana has a gap of 127,000 affordable units statewide, with only 37 affordable and available units per 100 families, Bradley said. He added that although Indiana is a low cost-of-living state, small towns and rural communities have reported higher eviction rate surges than in larger municipal areas.

People who (are low income), theyre spending a lot of their income on housing, Bradley said. So if they lost any income during COVID, that really quickly puts them under water.

As of May, the median monthly rent in the Indianapolis metropolitan area had risen by 9.7 % over the last year, to $1,093, according to a report released June 16 by Realtor.com. Median rents for a one-bedroom apartment rose by 8.7%, while two-bedroom units jumped by 14.1%.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

A spike in evictions is expected once the CDC moratorium expires, which is what happened when the state's moratorium expired last year, said Amy Nelson, executive director of the Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana.

Although no statewide data exists, Indiana housing experts estimated that roughly 13% of tenants  about 106,000 Indiana households  are at risk of eviction. Recent census data showed that 56,000 state residents were concerned they could be evicted within two months.

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Casey Smith is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
ST. LOUIS (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions that was enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, has been the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and have fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing that they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rent.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they would face eviction within the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Missouri:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Missouri is not among the states that enacted an eviction moratorium in 2020. St. Louis city and county, and Jackson County, which includes Kansas City, issued their own moratoriums. After the Biden administration extended the moratorium by a month, St. Louis city did the same. St. Louis County and Jackson County authorities have said they will adhere to the CDC guidelines.

Meanwhile, tenant advocates claim that many evictions have continued in Missouri despite the CDC moratorium.

The pandemic also has hurt landlords. Nick Kasoff owns 15 rental homes in Ferguson, a St. Louis suburb. He said he's doing OK, but worries that the lengthy moratorium will result in many small-scale landlords losing their properties to foreclosure.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

The Missouri Housing Development Commission is promoting the State Assistance for Housing Relief (SAFHR) program to help people catch-up on past-due rent and utilities. The commission will disburse $593 million statewide. The money comes from federal coronavirus aid programs and is scheduled to last through 2025, although the commission said funding might run out within three years based on the pace of applications.

The commission also said it is working with nonprofit partners to assist those at risk of eviction. Advocacy groups such as Action St. Louis and Reconciliation Services in Kansas City are reaching out directly to needy tenants, in some cases going door-to-door. They are advising them of their legal rights and the steps they can take to try to stay in their home.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

The CDC moratorium has meant that most eviction lawsuits have been stayed. Before the expiration date was extended to the end of July, Legal Aid of Western Missouri attorney Rachel North said many eviction cases had trial dates immediately after the initial date.

More than 13,000 eviction filings have been issued against tenants in Missouris two metropolitan areas since March 15, 2020, according to the Eviction Lab at Princeton University, which tracks evictions nationwide. That includes 8,100 filings in St. Louis city and county combined, and 5,039 in Jackson County.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN MISSOURIS MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Like most of the Midwest, rent is less expensive in Missouri than on the coasts. However, average income also is far less. Robert Swearingen, an attorney for Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, said his tenant clients are often people living on Social Security with income of $600 to $1,000 per month: They have a hard time finding an apartment that is livable, he said.

According to research from Realtor.com, the median monthly rental cost in St. Louis in May was $1,145, which was 9.6% higher than a year ago. The average rent in Kansas City was $1,109, which was 4.6% higher than the previous year. Both costs were well below the national median monthly rent of $1,527, which rose 5.5% over the past year.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Its possible. Lee Camp, an attorney with the legal advocacy group ArchCity Defenders, expects a big rise in evictions once the CDC moratorium ends. He notes that Missouri law allows for a swift removal process  tenants are often evicted within about six weeks of the eviction lawsuit being filed.

One indication of the scope of the concern is recent census data showing that 106,275 Missouri residents were worried they could be evicted within two months.

Kennard Williams, a housing activist with the group Action St. Louis, said that with housing insecurity already alarmingly high, the eviction wave is going to overwhelm the resources and infrastructure that we have.
CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes in many states. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Nevada:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Gov. Steve Sisolak's executive order putting a moratorium on evictions for those unable to pay expired on June 1, leaving the Center for Disease Control and Protection's moratorium as the final bulwark against eviction for struggling renters. The moratorium covered tenants who were unable to pay rent, but it allowed landlords to purse other kinds of evictions, for example no-cause evictions or lease violation evictions.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

State and local governments have been allocated $365 million in federal coronavirus aid for rental assistance, according to the Nevada Treasurer's Office. The aid is available to tenants and households with less than $99,000 in annual earnings, and approved funds are sent directly to landlords.

Officials have aggressively sought to publicize assistance programs because dollars that aren't spent will revert to the federal government and, once evicted, tenants become ineligible.

Sisolak signed legislation this month requiring courts halt nonpayment-of-rent evictions if tenants provide proof they have applied for rental assistance. The policy also requires landlords to offer information about protections and rental assistance to tenants before initiating evictions.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Nevada is the only state in the U.S. with a summary eviction system in which the burden of initiating court proceedings falls on tenants, not landlords. Renters arent granted court hearings unless they file challenges to eviction notices, meaning evictions can be carried out without court oversight and tenant protections only go to those who know and avail themselves of them.

Advocates say the policy has limited the effectiveness of pandemic-eviction protections in comparison with other states.

In some states, the federal moratorium's references to nonpayment of rent" are seen as a catch-all to prevent many kinds of evictions. In Nevada, the words non-payment of rent are used in state eviction laws, leading some judges to interpret federal guidelines narrowly and still allow for no-cause evictions, for example, for tenants with month-to-month leases who can't pay their rent.

To prevent overwhelming courts with an onslaught of eviction cases, lawmakers last summer created a program to provide 30 days for landlords and tenants to pursue third-party mediation.

WHAT IS THE AFFORDABILITY IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Nevada, where nearly 45% of the population rents, ranks as the worst state in the U.S. for poor people seeking housing. A study of 2019 census data conducted by the National Low Income Housing Coalition concluded there are only 20 affordable and available units for every 100 extremely low-income renters in the state.

Home prices and median rents have skyrocketed in the Reno and Las Vegas areas.

In the Reno-Sparks area, the median rent for a two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment has risen to $1,327, and the vacancy rate has fallen to 1.6%, according to an April study by appraisers Johnson Perkins Griffin.

As of May, the median monthly rent in the Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise region had risen 12.2% over the last year to $1,340, according to a report released June 16 by Realtor.com. Only seven metro areas saw larger spikes over the duration.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

In Nevada, about 6,900 people experience homelessness on any given night, according to a January 2020 study.

Experts aren't sure how much the lifting of the federal moratorium will exacerbate housing insecurity. One indication of the scope of the problem is census data showing more than 42,000 state residents are concerned that they could be evicted over the next two months.

Bailey Bortolin, policy director of the Nevada Legal Aid, said making it harder to evict tenants who have pursued rental assistance will to some extent insulate Nevada from a potential surge. But she still worries about vulnerable renters navigating the complexities of the eviction process on their own and finding the resources they are eligible for.

At the end of the day, people are in crisis, and navigating our eviction legal processes for people in crisis has never been easy or accessible  and that has only been made harder by the pandemic, she said.

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Sam Metz is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month.

The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Ohio:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

The state of Ohio never enacted its own eviction moratorium and is following the federal moratorium. At the county and city level, some courts have taken the moratorium seriously, essentially following the letter of the order, said Marcus Roth, development director for the Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio. Others are basically ignoring it, and theres everything in between, he said.

During a normal year, Ohio landlords file between 105,000 and 110,000 evictions, according to Ohio Supreme Court data. In 2020 they filed 69,000 evictions  only 36% fewer than 2019.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

In the fall of 2020, the state invested more than $111 million in CARES Act funding for emergency rental assistance, and created the Home Relief Grant program administered by local Community Action Agencies. Ohio received an additional $1.5 billion in emergency rental assistance dollars from the December federal relief bill and the American Rescue Plan in March, and in May the Legislature appropriated $465 million of that funding for rent relief and utility assistance, with more appropriations to come.

The extent of need has overwhelmed the agencies distributing the aid and theres a concern that applicants might not receive rent assistance before the moratorium expires. "If thats the case, then many renters could face housing insecurity, said Alison Goebel, executive director of the Greater Ohio Policy Center.

Some communities, including Dayton and Lakewood in suburban Cleveland, passed local pay to stay laws which require landlords to accept rent if tenants come up with it before an eviction hearing.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Lawsuits challenging the federal moratorium have led to uncertainty about whether and where it needs to be enforced. Some Ohio judges still require renters to prove they made every effort to cover rent after pandemic-related job losses. Other judges grant the moratorium protection, while still others have taken to delaying cases to allow renters time to access the backed-up rental assistance money. Where the latter is concerned, the result is judges just using their administrative decision-making processes to slow the process down to avoid unnecessary evictions, said Graham Bowman, staff attorney with the Ohio Poverty Law Center.

WHAT IS THE AFFORDABILITY IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

The Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio has determined that only 42 rental units are affordable and available for every 100 extremely low-income households in Ohio. The group also found that the hourly rate that renters must earn to afford a basic, two-bedroom apartment is $15.99, while only three out of the 10 most common jobs in Ohio actually paid employees more than that. The affordability ranges from city to city but is acute in state capital Columbus, where renters need to earn $19.02 an hour for a two-bedroom apartment. The average renters household wage statewide is $14.42 an hour.

Census data show that about 248,000 Ohioans are concerned they wont be able to pay next months rent and about 112,000 Ohioans are concerned they will be evicted within the next two months.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

A post-moratorium surge in homelessness is a big concern but not an immediate one for housing advocates. Thats because evicted renters typically move in with friends or family first as opposed to heading immediately for a shelter. But that could change down the road.

If there is a real spike in evictions, eventually well see a spike in homelessness as well, Roth said.

Exacerbating the problem, renters with an eviction in their record have a much harder time finding an apartment for the same price  if at all  in the future.
OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and had fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rents.

As of July 5, roughly 3.6 million people in the U.S. said they face eviction in the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Washington:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Washington is one of several states that enacted a moratorium last year halting eviction proceedings. Evictions with a 60-day notice are allowed in cases in which the landlord intends to sell or move into the property, or if an affidavit declares the tenant created health and safety problems.

Gov. Jay Inslee has extended moratorium protections several times, including last month. The protections will now remain in force until Sept. 30 to give landlords and tenants sufficient time to access federal aid.

Through the end of July, landlords are prohibited from evicting tenants for past-due rent during the pandemic until rental assistance and eviction resolution programs are in place in their county. Starting Aug. 1, tenants are expected to pay full rent unless they negotiate a lower amount with their landlord or actively seek rental assistance. Landlords must offer tenants a reasonable repayment plan before starting the eviction process and provide them a list of services and support available to them under the assistance programs.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

The Legislature approved spending $658 million in federal money to extend the states rental assistance program. That doesnt include hundreds of millions of dollars from previous federal relief programs that are being distributed to landlords. The ultimate number of households to be helped is expected to be more than 80,000, said Jaime Smith, spokeswoman for the state Department of Commerce.

The governor also signed a right to counsel measure passed by the Legislature that ensures low-income tenants have legal representation when faced with eviction. Another one focuses on tenant rights and the circumstances in which they can be evicted.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

In most judicial districts, eviction hearings in Washington continue to be held remotely. In any given year, the courts receive 17,000 to 20,000 eviction filings across the state, said Edmund Witter, an attorney with the King County Bar Associations Housing Justice Project. While the number has decreased during the pandemic, he expects the pace will resume once the moratorium lifts.

Recent statewide data shows just 2,700 eviction filings in 2020, said Jim Bamberger, director of the Office of Civil Legal Aid, a judicial branch agency.

WHAT IS THE AFFORDABILITY IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

Washington has had a tight rental market for several years, with vacancy rates at 5% or below, said James Young, director of the Washington Center for Real Estate Research, which looks at data for rental buildings that have at least 20 units. From spring 2015 to spring 2021, the statewide average rent for a two-bedroom apartment increased more than 37%, to $1,476, according to state data. One-bedroom apartments saw a 30% jump during that same period to a statewide average of $1,422. This spring, one-bedroom apartments in most counties outside the Puget Sound area had vacancy rates below 2%.

During the pandemic, the state saw a shift away from urban areas as people looked for cheaper housing while working remotely. That's why King County, home to Seattle, had the largest vacancy rate at 7.1% this spring, compared with smaller markets that had a rental vacancy of 0.5% in a recent survey.

Data on multifamily units of five and larger from CoStar Group, a real estate research firm, shows that as the economy reopens, demand for housing in Seattle is coming back after vacancy rates were as high as 11.4% last year, and rents are increasing again after seeing a decline.

Seattle rents increased 4.4% over the past 12 months, with a one-bedroom at $1,674 and a two-bedroom rate at $1,983.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Its hard to say how much homelessness will increase in Washington. Witter, with the Housing Justice Project, said the Seattle region already has one of the highest homelessness rates in the country, which could increase if pandemic-related evictions soar. According to the Census Pulse Survey for the week of June 23-July 5, about 31,000 households statewide are not paying rent and more than 174,000 have no confidence they could pay next months rent.

The Census survey found that more than 53,000 respondents said it was very likely they would have to leave their homes because of eviction in the next two months. More than 61,000 said it was somewhat likely. It doesnt take a lot to create a surge of homelessness, Witter said.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP)  A federal freeze on most evictions that was enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, has been the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and have fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing that they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access more than $45 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants say the distribution of the money has been slow and that more time is needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to boot out tenants who are behind on their rent.

As of June 7, roughly 3.2 million people in the U.S. said they would face eviction within the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

Heres the situation in Arkansas:

WHATS THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Arkansas doesn't have its own moratorium. It also doesn't track evictions, but advocates for renters say they've seen eviction cases proceeding, despite the CDC's moratorium.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Arkansas set aside $173 million in federal funds to set up the Emergency Rental Assistance Program for people who have lost jobs or are struggling financially because of the pandemic. So far, though, only about $251,000 has been expended from that fund.

Renters can qualify if someone in the home gets unemployment benefits, if their household income went down or if someone in the home incurred significant financial hardship due to the pandemic. They also must meet income eligibility requirements based on their area's median income and the number of people in their household.

Funds are paid directly to landlords and can cover up to 15 months of rent and utilities from April 1, 2020 through the end of this year.

Advocates say a problem with rent assistance is that some landlords are refusing to take the money.

The state was also allocated $6.1 million for rapid rehousing" aimed at getting homeless people into permanent housing, and nearly $1.1 million of that has been spent. The state was also allocated $4.3 million in homeless prevention, of which about $714,000 has been spent. The funds are distributed by community organizations around the state.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

The Arkansas Supreme Court issued an order last year requiring any new eviction complaints to state that they would not be prevented by a moratorium under the CARES Act. That moratorium, which covered federally subsidized mortgages or properties, ended last July. The state Supreme Court did not issue a similar order regarding the CDC moratorium, which took effect in September.

Kendall Lewellen, managing attorney at the Center for Arkansas Legal Services, said eviction procedures vary across the state but that for the most part, she has seen courts enforcing the CDC's moratorium by allowing a hearing on whether the tenant qualifies for protection under the moratorium. If so, the court either schedules another hearing for after the moratorium expires or gives the landlord a court order that doesn't take effect until after the moratorium expires.

HOW AFFORDABLE ARE THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

There is a shortage of affordable rental homes available to low income households in Arkansas, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition. It says the annual household income needed to rent a two-bedroom home in Arkansas is $29,514.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

A surge in homelessness and evictions is possible, but it's unclear what the scale of it would be. One indication of the scope of the problem is recent census data showing that more than 65,500 Arkansas residents said they were very likely or somewhat likely to be evicted within two months.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (AP)  After a halfway house couldnt reach a former Newport News investment broker on home confinement, he was taken into custody to serve another five years in prison.

The Daily Press reports that Jeffrey Martinovich took daily calls for more than a year to prove he was home, but he said he didnt hear the calls that night in May.
CALEDONIA, Wis. (AP)  A Wisconsin gunman who killed a 22-year-old man who was pumping gas later shot himself in the head after exchanging gunfire with an undercover sheriff's investigator, authorities said Thursday.

John McCarthy, 32, of Hartland, killed himself after confronting the undercover sheriff's investigator at another gas station not far away in Caledonia on Tuesday, the state Department of Justice said in revealing new details about the shooting.

The Racine County Sheriff's Department named McCarthy as the shooter earlier Wednesday.

Both McCarthy and the investigator were struck by gunfire before McCarthy fatally shot himself, the justice department said. The investigator, whose name hasn't been released, is recovering at a Racine hospital from wounds that arent considered life-threatening.

McCarthy lay in wait for 22-year-old Anthon Griger, of Elkhorn, as he filled up his vehicle at the Pilot Travel Center at 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Racine County Sheriff Christopher Schmaling said. The sheriff said McCarthy executed Griger.

Officials have not identified a motive for the shooting.

Schmaling said McCarthy rummaged through Grigers pockets before shooting multiple times at another person who was driving through the parking lot. That person was not injured.

McCarthy then drove to a Mobil station about 2 miles (3 kilometers) away, according to authorities. There, with a gun drawn, McCarthy approached the undercover investigator who was pumping gas into his unmarked squad car, Schmaling said.

The two exchanged gunfire. The investigator suffered multiple gunshot wounds that fractured several bones around his pelvis, the sheriffs office said.

Family members posted on a GoFundMe page that Griger's death was all too sudden. Griger was a 2017 graduate of Franklin High School whom family and friends called Nino.

There are no words to express the anguish and shock that all of Ninos family and friends are experiencing right now. We pray that he is at peace and in the loving arms of those who have gone before him, a statement read.
NEW DELHI (AP)  It began in February with a tweet by pop star Rihanna that sparked widespread condemnation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modis handling of massive farmer protests near the capital, souring an already troubled relationship between the government and Twitter.

Moving to contain the backlash, officials hit Twitter with multiple injunctions to block hundreds of tweets critical of the government. Twitter complied with some and resisted others.

Relations between Twitter and Modi's government have gone downhill ever since.

At the heart of the standoff is a sweeping internet law that puts digital platforms like Twitter and Facebook under direct government oversight. Officials say the rules are needed to quell misinformation and hate speech and to give users more power to flag objectionable content.

Critics of the law worry it may lead to outright censorship in a country where digital freedoms have been shrinking since Modi took office in 2014.

Police have raided Twitter's offices and have accused its India chief, Manish Maheshwari, of spreading communal hatred and hurting the sentiments of Indians. Last week, Maheshwari refused to submit to questioning unless police promised not to arrest him.

On Wednesday, the company released a transparency report showing India had submitted most government information requests -- legal demands for account information -- to Twitter. It accounted for a quarter of worldwide requests in July- December last year.

It was the first time since Twitter started publishing the report in 2012 that the U.S. was displaced as the top global requester, it added.

Indias plans for the internet appear to be like that of a closed ecosystem like China, said Raheel Khursheed, co-founder of Laminar Global and Twitter Indias former head of Politics, Policy and Government. Twitters case is the basis of a touchstone on how the future of the internet will be shaped in India.

Tech companies are facing similar challenges in many countries. China has been aggressively tightening controls on access to its 1.4 billion-strong market, which is already largely sequestered by the Communist Party's Great Firewall and by U.S. trade and technology sanctions.

India is another heavyweight, with 900 million users expected by 2025.

Any internet company knows that India is probably the biggest market in terms of scale. Because of this, the option of leaving India is like the button theyd press if they had no options left, said tech analyst Jayanth Kolla.

The new rules, in the works for years and announced in February, apply to social media companies, streaming platforms and digital news publishers. They make it easier for the government to order social media platforms with over 5 million users to take down content that is deemed unlawful. Individuals now can request that companies remove material. If a government ministry flags content as illegal or harmful it must be removed within 36 hours. Noncompliance could lead to criminal prosecutions.

Tech companies also must assign staff to answer complaints from users, respond to government requests and ensure overall compliance with the rules.

Twitter missed a three-month deadline in May, drawing a strong rebuke from the Delhi High Court. Last week, after months of haggling with the government, it appointed all three officers as required.

Twitter continues to make every effort to comply with the new IT Rules 2021. We have kept the Government of India apprised of the progress at every step of the process, the company said in a statement to the Associated Press.

Apar Gupta, executive director of the Internet Freedom Foundation, says he worries the rules will lead to numerous cases against internet platforms and deter people from using them freely, leading to self-censorship. Many other critics say Modis Hindu nationalist government is imposing what they call a climate of digital authoritarianism."

If it becomes easier for user content to be taken down, it will amount to the chilling of speech online, Gupta said.

The government insists the rules will benefit and empower Indians.

Social media users can criticize Narendra Modi, they can criticize government policy, and ask questions. I must put it on the record straight away . . . But a private company sitting in America should refrain from lecturing us on democracy" when it denies its users the right to redress, the ex-IT minister, Ravi Shankar Prasad, told the newspaper The Hindu last month.

Despite the antagonisms between Modi and Twitter, he has been an enthusiastic user of the platform in building popular support for his Bharatiya Janata Party. His government has also worked closely with the social media giant to allow Indians to use Twitter to seek help from government ministries, particularly during health emergencies. Bharatiya Janata Party's social media team has meanwhile been accused of initiating online attacks against critics of Modi.

Still, earlier internet restrictions had already prompted the Washington-based Freedom House to list India, the world's most populous democracy, as partly free instead of free in its annual analysis.

The law announced in February requires tech companies to aid police investigations and help identify people who post mischievous information. That means messages must be traceable, and experts say this it could mean end-to-end encryption would not be allowed in India.

Facebooks WhatsApp, which has more than 500 million users in India, has sued the government, saying breaking encryption, which continues for now, would severely undermine the privacy of billions of people who communicate digitally.

Officials say they only want to trace messages that incite violence or threatening national security. WhatsApp says it cant selectively do that.

It is like you are renting out an apartment to someone but want to look into it whenever you want. Who would want to live in a house like that? said Khursheed of Laminar Global.

The backlash over online freedom of expression, privacy and security concerns comes amid a global push for more data transparency and localization, said Kolla, the tech expert.

Germany requires social media companies to devote local staff and data storage to curbing hate speech. Countries like Vietnam and Pakistan are drafting legislation similar to Indias. In Turkey, social media companies complied with a broad mandate for removing content only after they were fined and faced threats to their ad revenues.

Instead of leaving, some companies are fighting the new rules in the courts, where at least 13 legal challenges have been filed by news publishers, media associations and individuals. But such cases can stretch for months or even years.

Mishi Choudhary, a technology lawyer and founder of Indias Software Freedom Law Center, says that under the rules, social media platforms might lose their safe harbor protection, which shields them from legal liability over user-generated content. Courts have to decide that on a case-by-case basis, she said. And their legal costs would inevitably soar.

You know how it is in India. The process is the punishment, Choudhary said. And until we get to a place where the courts will actually come and tell us what the legal position is and determine those legal positions, it is open season for tech backlash.
NEW YORK (AP)  In spring 2020, Diane Quince was recognized for taking a remarkable turn in her life: A college student at 61, she won a $10,000 scholarship for women who navigated major difficulties to pursue an education.

This past January, Quince died at 62 and became one of hundreds of people whose remains lingered in a temporary morgue that was opened at the peak of New York City's battle with the coronavirus but is still operating over a year later.

She was inspirational, says Michele Callahan, a College of Staten Island staffer who helped Quince apply for the scholarship she earned from the Womens Forum of New York. She wanted to help everyone and everything.

The city medical examiner's office, which runs the temporary morgue, didnt respond to inquiry about the cause of Quince's death. Although the facility was created to handle a spring 2020 onslaught of COVID-19 deaths, it now holds the bodies of about 200 people who have died of various causes and are awaiting final arrangements. The medical examiner's office plans to close the facility by the end of the summer.

Quince was buried last month in a private cemetery plot arranged by Staten Island public administrator Edwina Frances Martin, an official who handles some estates. Her office said no relatives had come forward to make arrangements for Quince, and officials didn't want to postpone laying her to rest any longer but could continue trying to connect with her kin. The agency also posts a list of its burials in case families or friends are looking for information.

The Associated Press reached her brother Paul, who said that the family doesn't keep in close touch and that he didn't know of her death until a reporter contacted him.

After a rough childhood on Staten Island, Quince left home at an early age and briefly pursued a military career in the late 1970s, Paul Quince said. She lived in places including Hawaii and Puerto Rico, ultimately returning to New York, he said.

She struggled for decades with homelessness, drug use and other problems, according to her bio on the Womens Forum website.

She had a tough life, her brother said, but she always wanted to go to school."

She was working toward it the last time he saw her, at lunch about five years ago, he said. She mentioned that she had applied to college and sought a scholarship.

Callahan said Diane Quince confided that she was nervous at first about embarking on college in her 60s.

But I found caring, support and encouragement," Quince said in a June 2020 piece that the college wrote about her. "Most of all, I found purpose.

A strong student who focused on English and writing, Quince also did lots of volunteering, from fundraising for people with HIV or AIDS to giving motivational talks at a social services organization, according to the College of Staten Island.

She really loved to talk to people. She wasnt afraid to get up there in front of a crowd and speak to them and give them hope about changing whatever circumstances they had, to do something positive, Callahan recalled.

Quince's own goal was to work for nonprofit groups that help homeless people, especially women.

I wish to pull them out of their terrible living conditions and help them to see that there is hope, she told the Womens Forum.
LOS ANGELES  A federal court decision Wednesday favors Joseph Maldonado-Passage, a.k.a. Joe Exotic: His 22-year sentence has been vacated and will be reconsidered. But his conviction on charges of murder-for-hire and wildlife crime? That will stand.

We affirm Maldonado-Passages conviction but vacate the sentence and remand for resentencing, the 10th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals said Wednesday in a decision that pleased the former tiger owners attorney, as it will likely mean a shorter federal prison term.

Maldonado-Passage, who gained early-pandemic fame via the Netflix docuseries Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness, was convicted on two counts of murder-for-hire against tiger rival Carole Baskin, which is where the sentencing issue arose.

The appeals court took issue with the district courts failure to group the two murder-for-hire charges, even though Maldonado-Passage tried to hire two different men to kill Baskin.

Baskin was neither murdered multiple times nor assaulted multiple times during attempted murders, court documents explained. Her harm was one sustained, ongoing harm. Maldonado-Passages actions were all connected to one common criminal objective, the court added.

I am pleased with the appellate courts decision in Joes case, attorney Brandon Sample, who is representing Maldonado-Passage on appeal, told The Times in a statement Wednesday. I knew when I agreed to represent Joe that an appeal would be difficult, but I also knew that the law was on Joes side. I am optimistic that the decision today is but one of many more victories to come for Joe  and his eventual freedom.

The former exotic zookeeper was convicted in 2019 and sentenced in January 2020. In March 2020, he was moved to FMC Forth Worth prison, where he has been serving his 264-month sentence. His team sought a pardon last year from former President Donald Trump but didnt succeed.

The original sentence included nine years on each of the two murder-for-hire counts, to run consecutively, not concurrently. If the two counts are combined, Maldonado-Passage will likely see a significant reduction in his time behind bars.

In other Exotic news, John Cameron Mitchell was seen for the first time in character as Maldonado-Passage while working on a Joe Exotic series for NBC, starring alongside Kate McKinnon as Baskin. According to Page Six, the series is set to run on NBC, Peacock and USA Network.

But another Maldonado-Passage project, shopped by CBS Studios and Imagine Television and set to star Nicolas Cage, has reportedly been shelved because the world has apparently moved on.

I read two excellent scripts ... but I think Amazon ultimately felt that it was material that had become past tense because it took so long for it come together, Cage told Variety Tuesday. They felt at one point that it was lightning in a bottle, but that point has since faded into the distance and its no longer relevant.
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. (AP)  A judge has denied a prosecutor's bid to file rape charges against the man accused of killing California college student Kristin Smart, who went missing 25 years ago.

The San Luis Obispo district attorney's office had sought to add two rape charges  for offenses they say were committed in Los Angeles County after Smart disappeared  to the complaint filed against Paul Flores in Smart's death, KEYT reported Wednesday.
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP)  Lawmakers are demanding that Gov. Andrew Cuomo lift remaining restrictions for visits at nursing homes, according to a letter two dozen Democratic lawmakers sent to the governor this week.

The coronavirus pandemic has had a heavy toll on nursing homes in New York, where state health officials have taken a cautious approach to visitations. At least 15,800 people living in nursing homes and assisted living residences have died of COVID-19, according to state and federal data, with 3,400 deaths reported from November through mid-February.

But New York lifted many restrictions on nursing home visits this spring in light of federal guidance that, in part, cleared the way for loved ones to hug residents if both are vaccinated.

Nursing homes in New York are urged to provide indoor visits, though visits can be curtailed once residents or staff test positive. Residents can receive compassionate care visits that arent subject to restrictions for a variety of scenarios, including residents who are in end-of-life care or in emotional distress. New York also lifted a requirement for visitors to test negative for COVID-19 : a move some experts and family members have questioned.

Now, some nursing homes are allowing one or two visitors at a time to visit loved ones for as little as 30 minutes once or twice a week, sometimes with hours limited to weekdays.

In the year before vaccinations became available, our seniors endured loneliness and isolation that had very real impacts on their physical and mental health, the lawmakers wrote in the July 12 letter to Cuomo. While the majority of New Yorkers have had the opportunity to resume a life of pre-COVID-19 activity, seniors in many nursing homes have been excluded.

Christina McComish, 59, of Valatie, said her 88-year-old mother has declined in the last year, and has struggled with isolation, dementia and hearing loss. McComish said it can take days to make appointments to see her mother for 30 minutes at opposite ends of a dining table in the nursing home lobby.

She said she snuck a hug with her mother during their last visit, though the nursing home discouraged it. McComish, who works as a creative arts therapist at another nearby nursing home, said its a struggle to know what visitation rights residents and family members have.

She said her mothers nursing home has told her that compassionate care visits are only for end-of-life scenarios.

Shes vaccinated, Im vaccinated, McComish said. Shes just going to die in there, shes just going to die alone.

Sen. Rachel May, a Democrat from central New York, said lawmakers are hearing from too many constituents who find it difficult to visit loved ones even after New York's state of emergency expired.

May pushed for a new law that allows nursing home residents to have limited visits during public health emergencies. New York U.S. Rep. Claudia Tenney, a Republican, is sponsoring a similar bill at the federal level.

Obviously states need to have control over out-of-control public health emergencies, May said. Barring that it seems to me that if your nursing home is your home you should have the right to visit your person and that should be pretty basic.

New Yorks Department of Health released updated rules last week that said nursing homes can face citation and enforcement actions for restricting visitation without a reasonable clinical or safety cause under federal law.

To be clear: DOHs nursing home visitation guidance does not limit the length of time for nursing home visits, spokesperson Jeffrey Hammond said. Compassionate care visits should be permitted at all times.

He said nursing homes should allow indoor visits at all times except when there's a high risk of COVID-19 transmission.

Hammond said New Yorkers concerned about a nursing home's visitation rules can call the state's hotline at 1-888-201-4563.

As more nursing home residents in New York get vaccinated, infection rates have plummeted: from 410 deaths and 1,835 infections reported in the week ending Jan. 17, to five deaths and 10 infections in the week ending June 27.

Still, 106 residents and 154 staff tested positive in June.

And cases are spiking statewide: 5,100 people tested positive for the 7 days through Wednesday. That's up 65% from 3,100 the previous week.

Fewer than 60% of nursing home staff are fully vaccinated in eight counties, including Brooklyn. At the boroughs 364-bed Cobble Hill Health Center, where 57% of staff are fully vaccinated, eight residents tested positive in June. One resident died.

The vaccines work. We have seen an abundance of evidence that vaccinated residents who test positive remain asymptomatic," director of social work Stephanie Zevon said in a June 12 letter to families.
NEW LONDON, Conn. (AP)  A Connecticut man who was released early from federal prison because of the pandemic has been sent back behind bars for violating the terms of his supervised release.

Anthony Whitley, 38, of New London, was sentenced Thursday to 18 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Meyer.
MEADVILLE, Miss. (AP)  Friends and relatives gathered Thursday in a tiny town in southwestern Mississippi to dedicate a new state historical marker honoring two young Black men who were kidnapped and killed by Ku Klux Klansmen 57 years ago.

Investigators found the remains of college student Charles Eddie Moore and lumber mill worker Henry Hezekiah Dee in a backwater of the Mississippi River in July 1964. It happened as officers were searching for three civil rights workers who had disappeared from central Mississippi the previous month.

Military veteran Thomas Moore, 78, said Thursday that the new marker helps ensure his brother and their friend and high school classmate, Dee, will be remembered and that they won't just be footnotes in the history of what the FBI called the Mississippi Burning case  the Klan killings of Michael Schwerner, James Chaney and Andrew Goodman.

Moore, who lives in Colorado Springs, Colorado, told people Thursday under the hot summer sun in Meadville that while Black Lives Matter is a theme now, they mattered back then, too.

James Ford Seale and Charles Marcus Edwards briefly faced state murder charges in the deaths of Dee and Charles Eddie Moore in 1964, but the charges were dismissed because local law enforcement officers were in collusion with the Klan, federal prosecutors said in 2007.

Prosecutors said Seale was with a group of Klansmen in May 1964 when they abducted the two 19-year-olds from a rural stretch of highway, took them into the woods and beat and interrogated them about rumors that Black people in the area were planning an armed uprising. The victims were thrown in the trunk of a car, driven across the Mississippi River into Louisiana and then were weighted down and dumped into the water while still alive.

Many people thought Seale was dead until 2005, when Thomas Moore and a Canadian broadcaster, David Ridgen, found him found living in a town near where the teens were kidnapped. Federal authorities opened a case, and Edwards became the governments star witness after he was promised immunity from prosecution. When jurors were out of the courtroom one day during Seale's 2007 trial, Edwards apologized to the victims' families.

That released me from the cell I had locked myself in, Thomas Moore said Thursday, recalling the apology.

A federal jury in Jackson, Mississippi, convicted Seale of kidnapping and conspiracy. He died in federal prison in 2011.

Shannon Sieckert of Walnut Creek, California, has worked for a civil rights education organization and helped Thomas Moore apply for the Mississippi historical marker.

The state needed to officially recognize these two men, that their lives mattered, that they were important, Sieckert said.

Dunn Lampton, the U.S. attorney who prosecuted Seale, died in 2011 after being injured in a crash. His twin brother, Dudley Ford Lampton Sr., said Thursday that the prosecutor developed a bond of trust with Thomas Moore because both served in the military. Dudley Ford Lampton Sr. said his brother told him: 'If I can convict Mr. Seale, I believe justice will be done.'

During the ceremony, Thomas Moore led about two dozen people in singing a gospel song: I will trust in the Lord til I die.... Im going to treat everybody right til I die.... Im going to stay on the battlefield til I die.

____

Follow Emily Wagster Pettus on Twitter at http://twitter.com/EWagsterPettus.
NEW YORK (AP)  A California movie producer was arrested Thursday on a New York indictment accusing him of using a movie production company to operate an international prostitution business.

Dillon Jordan, 49, of Arrowhead Lake, California, was arrested in San Bernardino County, California. At an initial court appearance in Riverside, California, Jordan appeared by video and was ordered released on $150,000 bail. A message seeking comment was sent to his attorney, Peter Swarth.

For years, Dillon Jordan operated an extensive and far-reaching prostitution business through two front companies  a purported party and event planning company and an actual movie production company, U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said in a release. Now the party is over and the film is a wrap.

Jordan is listed among dozens of producers on films including the 2018 film The Kindergarten Teacher, which featured Maggie Gyllenhaal, and the 2019 movie The Kid, which starred Ethan Hawke.

An indictment said Jordan, from 2010 through May 2017, kept a roster of women who lived across the U.S. and performed sexual acts for Jordans clients in exchange for money.

It said he coordinated with a United Kingdom-based madam, sharing and referring customers and prostitutes. The madam was not identified by name in court papers.

Sometimes, the indictment said, Jordan arranged transportation for women to engage in prostitution or directed clients to arrange interstate transportation.

He disguised payments for prostitution made by check to the women by describing them as fees for modeling, appearance, consulting, massage therapy and house parties, according to the indictment.

To communicate with clients, Jordan used email to discuss the price of prostitution services and to arrange transportation, authorities said.

As part of his bail terms, Jordan was ordered not to communicate with any victims or anyone likely to be a witness in the case.

They haven't said anyone's name so I don't know who any are, Jordan told Magistrate Judge Sheri Pym.

He was also ordered to surrender his firearms to law enforcement and not to use any drugs or marijuana. His home could also be subject to random searches.

They're going to randomly search my house? Jordan asked. Then he said: I agree.

He said his legal name was Dillon Jordan, but the indictment said he also used aliases including Daniel Jordan, Daniel Maurice Hatton," and Daniel Bohler."

He was charged with conspiracy to violate the Mann Act, enticement, money laundering and use of interstate commerce to promote unlawful activity.

FBI Special Agent-in-Charge George M. Crouch Jr. said anyone victimized by Jordan or with additional information should contact the Newark, New Jersey, FBI office.
ROCHESTER, N.H. (AP)  A nonprofit in New Hampshire announced its plans to convert a building in Rochester to a drop-in youth center for young adults and children facing housing insecurity.

Currently, Waypoint supports about 130 young people in the state. The nonprofit offers people different services like adoption, mental health counseling, child care and many other social services, New Hampshire Public Radio reported.
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP)  Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy has been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, the state's chief medical officer said Wednesday.

Dr. Anne Zink said in an email to The Associated Press that Dunleavy has been fully vaccinated and is doing very well. She did not say when he was vaccinated.

This comes after Dunleavys office in February announced the governor had tested positive for COVID-19. He later described his experience as an inconvenience and said it underscored his interest in being vaccinated.

Zink said vaccination is our best way to protect against additional cases, hospitalizations and deaths from COVID-19. Statistics from the state health department show about 51% of Alaska residents 12 and older have been fully vaccinated.

In response to questions from the AP earlier Wednesday, Dunleavy spokesperson Corey Allen Young said the governor had gotten the vaccine but referred questions about when to Zink.

The Republican governor had said in December, around the time the state's vaccine rollout was beginning, that he planned to get vaccinated. But he also said it was a personal decision, adding that whatever choice Alaskans made should be respected.

In a video released in April, Dunleavy said he was getting the vaccine. In an accompanying statement on social media, he said vaccination will not be mandated by the state, but I hope you consider it. Im getting the vaccine because I want to help Alaska businesses get back to work and do the things we all love to do as Alaskans.

Young said Dunleavy's vaccination was a private decision, which is what he has always advocated for in dealing with this virus.
BAGHDAD (AP)  Iraq's foreign minister said Thursday his government would investigate trafficking networks responsible for smuggling hundreds of Iraqis into Europe, specifically via Belarus to Lithuania.

Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein made the promise after a meeting in Baghdad with his visiting Lithuanian counterpart, Gabrielius Landsbergis. Lithuania, which recently declared a state of emergency due to the rising influx of migrants, had appealed on Iraq to act in the matter.

Hussein said Iraq will form a committee with representatives from the Foreign Ministry, Migration Ministry, as well as intelligence and the Civil Aviation Authority to clamp down on the smuggling networks. He spoke to reporters in a joint press conference with Landsbergis.

Landsbergis said there was a mutual need to disrupt the network from Iraq into Europe that was being perpetrated by malign actors using criminal elements. He blamed neighboring Belarus for encouraging migration into Lithuania.

In the past two months, more than 1,500 people have crossed into Lithuania  20 times more than in the whole of 2020. In response, Vilnius declared a state of emergency and accused Belarus of organizing border crossings by people, mainly from Iraq.

An unfriendly country to us, our neighbor, is using migrants, mostly Iraqi people, to pressure my country, to pressure the European Union in order for us to change our policy," Landsbergis said.

We feel Iraqi people are becoming a victim of the Belarusian regime, he said. Landsbergis added that he had recounted to Hussein some of the testimony collected by Lithuanian authorities from 800 Iraqi migrants about how they were trafficked into Lithuania.

Iraqi people are being promised an easy trip to Europe, a European paradise of sorts, but the problem is, they end up in a Lithuanian forest in a refugee camp, he said. We think those people were lied to, they had to pay a lot of a money to get to the border.

Relations between Lithuania and Belarus soured after the August 2020 elections in Minsk, which was won by long-time President Alexander Lukashenko but has been condemned by the West as rigged. The vote results triggered months of protests and a harsh crackdown on the opposition by Lukashenkos authoritarian regime.

Hussein said the committee would investigate the issue inside Iraq and take action based on its results.

Migrants in Verebiejai, Lithuania, told The Associated Press earlier this week that they came to Minsk from Baghdad.

I gave somebody $1,400 to bring me to the woods. I think it was the border. They showed me the way. They told me: go this way. Then I walked, an unnamed migrant said.

Another told the same story and added that he booked a hotel in Minsk and after that, started trying" to cross the border into Lithuania.

___

Associated Press writer Jan M. Olsen in Copenhagen, Denmark, contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Talkers both, Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders stayed for an hour in the Oval Office, just two former rivals for the White House now acting as potential partners, negotiating a compromise both could live with.

The centrist president listened as the liberal senator spoke. Sanders passionately made his case that Bidens big infrastructure investment should go even bigger  and include his own longtime goal of dental, hearing and vision benefits for older Americans on Medicare. The president gave his full backing, according to a senior White House aide and another person familiar with the private session, who spoke on condition of anonymity to describe a private meeting.

The deal was the product of mutual trust and common interest  notably to help the working class, but also to show that government can work and perhaps to restore some faith in democracy after the turbulent Trump era.

We are making progress in moving forward with the most consequential piece of legislation passed for working people since the 1930s, Sanders told The Associated Press a few days later, as Biden made his way to Capitol Hill to rally senators on the plan.

Theirs is an unlikely yet understandable partnership, a president who won over American voters with a calmly reassuring nod to traditional governing, and a democratic socialist senator who twice came close to winning the presidential nomination with what was once viewed as a wildly idealistic agenda. Sanders is now chair of the Senate Budget Committee.

Together, they are trying to unite the political factions of progressives and centrists in the sprawling Democratic Party, which controls Congress by only the narrowest of margins in the House and a 50-50 Senate, with no votes to spare around the presidents $3.5 trillion national rebuilding proposal.

In their sights is a legislative feat on par with Franklin Roosevelt's New Deal or Lyndon Johnson's Great Society. For two political leaders in the twilight of decadeslong careers, it is the chance of a lifetime and the stuff of legacies.

We're going to get this done, Biden said Wednesday as he entered the private lunch room at the Capitol.

Biden encouraged the senators to think of the good they could do for people across America, investing in places like Scranton, Pennsylvania, where he was born, who feel that the party is not in touch with working peoples pain.

The president gave a nod to Sanders, who noted their past rivalry and yet spoke with similar urgency about the moment before them  how the future of democracy rests with how well they can connect with people who feel the government has forgotten them.

When it came time for Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to call on senators who had raised their hands to speak, there were no pointed questions or objections, only enthusiasm, according to a person in the room who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the private meeting.

Senators emerged enthralled by the possibility of doing something big for the country.

Truly transformative," Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., said, using a word both Biden and Sanders now share.

The relationship between Biden and Sanders goes back years, the president having already spent decades in the Senate by the time the Vermont lawmaker was elected in 2006.

While Biden was the ultimate senator's senator, Sanders has always been an outsider on Capitol Hill, a declared independent, rather than member of the Democratic Party, with his rumpled suits, gruff demeanor and unrelenting focus on liberal causes.

Ask Sanders any question, on almost any topic, and his answers are almost always the same  its time for the government to stop catering to the rich and powerful and instead focus on the working people of this country.

Once seen as outlandish, Sanders' views have captivated millions of Americans who filled arenas to hear him speak, particularly after the Great Recession and amid a growing awareness of the nation's gaping inequality. He almost won the partys presidential nomination in 2016, but was defeated by Hillary Clinton, and again in 2020, before he lost to Biden.

In returning to the Senate, Sanders quickly became a focal point of Republicans opposed to Bidens agenda. The president intends to finance his plan with tax hikes on corporations and Americans making more than $400,000 a year. Republicans see Sanders as an influencer, alongside Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., and other prominent progressives, pushing the president to liberal extremes.

The president may have won the nomination, but Bernie Sanders won the argument, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell said recently back home in Kentucky, on the same day he said he was 100% focused" on stopping Bidens agenda.

But in developing the investment package with the president, Sanders showed another side of his skill set: that of a pragmatic legislator.

Word circulated Monday that the two were huddled in the Oval Office, a key moment as Democrats were struggling to build consensus. Bidens jobs and families plans total more than $4 trillion in traditional public works and human infrastructure investments. Sanders had presented a bolder $6 trillion proposal.

Sanders had been imploring his colleagues not to focus on price tags but rather on priorities  helping the middle class, fighting climate change, aiding older adults. He had also been insisting that the wealthy and large corporations pay their fair share in taxes. It is the same argument inside the rooms as it is in the arenas, senators say.

The meeting was substantive, warm, and friendly  which also describes the nature of their relationship going back years, said White House deputy press secretary Andrew Bates. The president values his skilled leadership, he said.

A bipartisan group of senators is compiling a slimmer $1 trillion package of roads and other public works spending.

But with Republicans opposed in lockstep to Bidens broader proposal, Democrats are pressing ahead on the more robust package they could pass on their own, under special budget rules of 51 votes for passage rather than the 60 typically needed to overcome objections from a filibuster.

If Biden, Sanders and Schumer can keep all 50 Democratic senators united, Vice President Kamala Harris can cast a tiebreaking vote. Democratic Speaker Nancy Pelosi has a similarly slim margin in the House.

Democratic Sen. Jon Tester, a centrist Montana farmer, is not yet supporting the president's broader plan, but said Sanders often advocates for things that are common sense.

While acknowledging that Sanders sometimes pushes the envelope further than he's comfortable with, Tester said, "He's trying to make it so the little guy's got a shot, which is, you know, what Democrats are for  at least thats what Im for. I want to make sure the little guy has a shot.
PRINEVILLE, Ore. (AP)  A journeyman jockey who rode thoroughbreds and quarter horses around the Pacific Northwest was killed Wednesday at the Crooked River Roundup Horse Race in Prineville, officials said.

The Jockey Guild said Eduardo Gutierrez-Sosa, 29, was based primarily out of Grants Pass, The Bulletin reported. He was married and had three children who were known to greet him after his races.
ISLAMABAD (AP)  Pakistan on Thursday said an initial investigation into a deadly bus crash the previous day in the country's northwest found traces of explosives" at the site, raising the possibility the incident was a terror attack.

A bus carrying dozens of construction workers fell into a ravine Wednesday in the district of Kohistan in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province after what authorities said was a gas leak in the vehicle that caused an explosion. At least 13 people, including nine Chinese, were killed and at least 36 people were injured.
KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP)  Pfizer Inc. and two of its subsidiaries have agreed to pay $345 million under a proposed settlement to resolve lawsuits over EpiPen price hikes.

In documents filed Thursday in federal court in Kansas City, Kansas, the New York-based Pfizer and its subsidiaries  Maryland-based Meridian Medical Technologies Inc. and Tennessee-based King Pharmaceuticals  asked the court to grant preliminary approval to the settlement, Kansas City's NPR station KCUR-FM reported.

The litigation dates to 2016, when numerous class-action lawsuits were filed around the country alleging that the companies engaged in anticompetitive conduct related to EpiPen. The cases were transferred to the Kansas court because of its centralized location.

Mylan, a Pennsylvania-based company that is also a defendant in the litigation, owns the rights to the EpiPen brand, but the devices are manufactured by Pfizer.

EpiPens, which are auto-injectable devices that deliver the drug epinephrine, are used for emergency treatment of a life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis.

When Mylan acquired the right to market and distribute the devices in 2007, an EpiPen package cost about $100. Today, it costs more than $650 without pharmacy coupons or manufacturer discounts.

The proposed settlement comes three weeks after U.S. District Judge Daniel Crabtree dismissed most of the claims against Mylan. But he allowed other antitrust claims against the company to proceed to trial, which is scheduled to begin Sept. 7.

A Pfizer spokesperson denied any wrongdoing in an email to KCUR, saying the resolution reflects a desire by the company to avoid "the distraction of continued litigation and focus on breakthroughs that change patients lives.

Rex Sharp, a lawyer for the plaintiffs, said his clients were pleased that Pfizer had agreed to the settlement, noting it would still need the court's approval. He said they look forward to going to trial on the remaining claims against Mylan.

When Crabtree dismissed most of the claims against Mylan, he also granted a summary judgment to Mylans former CEO, Heather Bresch, the daughter of Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia. Most of the price hikes occurred during her tenure. She stepped down in 2020 following Mylans merger with Pfizers Upjohn unit to form Pennsylvania-based Viatris.

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This story has been corrected to reflect that Mylan, which has merged to form Viatris, is based in Pennsylvania, not Maryland. It also clarifies that Meridian Medical Technologies is based in Maryland.
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP)  Two men apparently killed themselves, police said, in a suite at the Miami Beach hotel that Gianni Versace turned into his mansion, nearly 24 years to the day after the fashion designer died on the building's front steps.

Their bodies were found by housekeeping on Wednesday, the eve of the anniversary of Versace's slaying by a suspected serial killer. A preliminary investigation ruled it an apparent double suicide, Miami Beach spokesman Ernesto Rodriguez said Thursday in an email.

The scene was contained to the suite, and detectives are still investigating the deaths of Adam Rashap, 31, of Randolph, New Jersey, and Alexander Gross, 30, of York, Pennsylvania, police said.

Versace was gunned down on the morning of July 15, 1997, as he returned home from the News Cafe, a few blocks down Ocean Drive. Andrew Cunanan, who was suspected of killing four gay men from Minneapolis to New Jersey, shot him twice in the head at point-blank range.

Following a massive nationwide manhunt that lasted nine days, Cunanan, 27, killed himself in a houseboat where he had been hiding several miles (kilometers) from the mansion. His death left authorities with few answers to what motivated his killing spree.

"There was no suicide note and no correspondence to reflect why he committed the crimes, then-Miami Beach Police Chief Richard Barreto said at the time.

In the mid-1990s, along with Giorgio Armani, Versace was considered Italys leading ready-to-wear designer and a symbol of Italian fashion.

The Casa Casuarina was built in 1930 and was divided into apartments when Versace bought and converted the property in 1992. It has operated as a boutique hotel since 2015.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Sheltered in a downtown D.C. hotel, the Democratic lawmakers who left Texas to block a restrictive voting bill are living a life of stress and scrutiny.

After bolting the state Monday in order to sabotage the bill by denying a quorum in the Texas House of Representatives, the more than 50 state legislators find themselves balancing a punishing schedule of political lobbying, outside work and family obligations, all under a national spotlight.

Many have left young children behind; most have other professional obligations back in Texas. All seem to be operating on minimal sleep.

"It's surreal," said Rep. Gene Wu of Houston. I can't even describe to you how weird it has been.

Wu said he realized just how big a story their exodus had become when they arrived via private plane at Dulles airport on Monday. He overheard a group of German tourists talking in the airport about the fugitive Texas legislators.

Their goal is to hold out until the end of their special legislative session on Aug. 7, but Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott can call another special session 30 days after that. Abbott has also threatened the legislators with arrest the moment they return to Texas.

In the meantime, they're working the Capitol and the White House, seeking some sort of federal voter-protection move that would supersede any state-level laws.

The Texas State Legislature is a part-time body with an annual salary of $7,200. So the vast majority of the delegates have other primary jobs back in Texas that they abruptly left behind.

The lawmakers describe 16-hour days of essentially operating in shifts, with some working the Capitol and doing media interviews, while others carve out four hours or so to handle their other jobs.

We have a number of attorneys. Weve had several folks doing Zoom hearings, said Rep. Erin Zweiner of Austin.

The Covid-19 pandemic weirdly turned out to be an unexpected training ground, she said, since everybody is already practiced in teleworking. Without that cultural shift, a lot of peoples ability to earn a living would be severely hindered, she said.

And not everyone has a job or a business they can handle via Zoom.

Weve got a lot of practice during the pandemic, said Rep. John Bucey of Austin. But several, he said, are here at the total expense of their careers.

Bucy came to Washington with his 17-month old daughter Bradley and his wife Molly, who is 27-weeks pregnant. The trio actually drove 23-hours straight rather than fly with the other representatives because Bradley is too young to wear a facemask on a plane.

It's really hard, he said. There's no childcare here. My wife works. I work.

Zweiner came to Washington with her three-year-old daughter Lark, for both practical and sentimental reasons, she said. Her husbands work schedule didnt allow him to solo-parent and Zweiner said the idea of being away from her daughter for weeks was heart-wrenching.

Now Lark is a low-key Twitter star: the toddler attended a group meeting with New York Democratic Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand; she watched the movie Frozen on an iPad sitting on a Gillibrand staffers lap and Gillibrand gave her a U.S. Capitol coloring book.

Zweiner said Lark has been an absolute champ, but acknowledged Thursday that By day 4, shes getting a little grumpy with the process  she needs some kid time.

The balancing act is not just causing family sacrifices. Some Democrats are already paying a price back home in the Legislature, as Speaker Pro Tempore Joe Moody was stripped of his leadership position Thursday.

It is only one of the ways the Texas GOP is trying to turn up the heat just days into the showdown. Republican House Speaker Dade Phelan said he would have a plane ready in Washington this weekend to bring Democrats back home, while Abbott began running targeted campaign ads against absent lawmakers in likely competitive House districts in 2022, putting absent Democrats faces on milk cartons.

There is no excuse for their PR stunt, and I join thousands of Texans in demanding that these Democrats get back to work, Abbott said.

The non-stop meetings have been a mixed bag so far. On Thursday the Texas lawmakers huddled with Sen. Joe Manchin, a moderate West Virginia Democrat. Manchins vote is pivotal to pass the stalled voting-rights legislation through Congress, which would preempt much of the measure that Texas Republicans are advancing in their legislature.

Very good meeting, Manchin said after exiting the gathering.

But approving the bill, known as the For the People Act, also hinges on weakening a procedural rule called the filibuster, which requires 60 votes to advance most legislation in the Senate. Senate Republicans used the rule last month to block debate on the measure. And Manchin, whose vote would also be required, has rejected the idea.

Texas state Sen. Nathan Johnson, said after the meeting that Manchin, described (the For the People Act) as aspirational.

The Texas governor has accused the legislators of hanging out on a taxpayer-paid junket but the representatives defended their decision to leave the state, saying the move had already partially succeeded by shining a national spotlight on the issue.

We are not here on vacation, state Sen. Jose Menendez Id much rather be home with my family. We are here to do a job.

Representatives say they're currently too busy go out to dinner, take their kids to a museum or any of the other typical Washington-visitor activities.

I think we will get to a normal routine and a more reasonable baseline, Zweiner said, something where it's down to just 12-hour work days."

The decision to hole up in Washington is aimed at ratcheting up pressure on President Joe Biden and Congress to act on voting at the federal level. The day after they arrived, Biden delivered a speech in Philadelphia calling Republican-led efforts to curtail voting accessibility un-American and un-democratic.

About 20 of the state legislators held a press conference Wednesday, joined by a handful of Democratic Texas state senators who had flown in to offer support. Outside the downtown D.C. hotel where the contingent is living and working, about a dozen demonstrators held signs with messages like Do your job! and Who paid for the private jet?

The accusation that they're wasting public money particularly rankles. The delegation had maintained that the entire trip is being funded by donations through the state's Democratic Caucus. They're also in the midst of a public debate as to whether to decline their $221 per diems.

Some pointed out that their presence in D.C. was a personal financial disaster because of the jobs they left behind. Wu, an attorney with two young children, said he worried about making his next mortgage payment.

Our mission here, in Washington, is to use this time in this legislative session between now and Aug. 7 to say to the U.S. Senate that we need to pass federal voting rights legislation. And we need it now, said Rep. Chris Turner of Arlington, the leader of the Texas House Democrats. And were going to get into some good trouble, as best we can, while were doing it. 

___

AP reporters Brian Slodysko in Washington and Paul Weber in Austin contributed to this story.

___

Follow Khalil on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ashrafkhalil
LONDON (AP)  The U.K.'s jobs recovery has continued apace as lockdown restrictions were eased and the rapid rollout of coronavirus vaccines shored up confidence in the wider economy, official figures showed Thursday.

However, economists cautioned against complacency amid concerns over the sharp pick-up in infections and the upcoming end of a salary support scheme.

The Office for National Statistics said the country saw the number of workers on payroll jump by 356,000 in June. That's the biggest monthly increase since equivalent records began in 2014.

The statistics agency said the gradual easing of lockdown restrictions during the spring, particularly the reopening of the hospitality sector drove the recovery.

This was especially marked for younger people, who had been hardest hit by earlier lockdowns, said Darren Morgan, the agency's director of economic statistics.

Firms are expected to be further on the hunt for workers ahead of the final lifting of restrictions in England on July 19, when all legal limits on social contact are to be ditched. The other nations of the U.K. have also been lifting restrictions but a little bit slower than in England.

Despite seven months of increases, the number of payrolled workers has still fallen by 206,000 since the pandemic struck in March last year.

Overall, the statistics agency said the jobless rate was unchanged at 4.8% in May  the unemployment figures are conducted separately to the more timely payroll data.

At the outset of the pandemic, there were fears that unemployment would rise sharply to over 10% but a British government salary support scheme helped limit the number of people losing their job during the pandemic.

We are bouncing back," said Treasury chief Rishi Sunak. The number of employees on payrolls is at its highest level since last April and the number of people on furlough halved in the three months to May.

That Job Retention Scheme, which at its most generous saw the government paying 80% of the salaries of those unable to work because of the restrictions, is being phased out and is due to end at the end of September.

There are concerns that unemployment will spike then, especially if the current resurgence of the virus as a result of the spread of the delta variant forces the government to reimpose restrictions.

These encouraging signs must not breed complacency among policy makers, said Nye Cominetti, senior economist at the Resolution Foundation think tank. "The U.K.s jobs recovery is far from complete, and big challenges lie ahead as the spread of the virus continues, and the furlough scheme ends  just as unemployment support is set to be cut.
KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Ukraine's parliament on Thursday voted to accept the resignation of the country's Interior Minister Arsen Avakov.

Avakov submitted his resignation on Tuesday, but didn't disclose the reasons for his decision. The 57-year-old political heavyweight has been in office since 2014 and was the longest-serving interior minister in Ukraine's post-Soviet history.

Lawmakers have cast 291 votes out of 450 in support of Avakov's resignation on Thursday.

Avakov has been widely viewed as one of the most influential Cabinet members in Ukraine. He has served as interior minister in four different governments and under two presidents, holding on to the post despite frequent government reshuffles and numerous corruption allegations.

On Tuesday night, Zelenskyy proposed naming Denys Monastyrskyy, a lawmaker from the ruling Servant of the People party, as a candidate to replace Avakov as interior minister. A vote on his appointment will take place Friday, lawmakers said after a meeting of the Servant of the People bloc in parliament.

Monastyrskyy, 41, is chair of parliaments law enforcement committee and a member of the National Council on Anti-Corruption Policies. He said the decision to accept Zelenskyys offer was the most difficult of his life.
SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP)  A gunman who killed nine co-workers at a California rail yard in May harbored dark thoughts about harming two specific people, according to a report by customs agents who questioned him upon his return to California from a trip to the Philippines in 2016.

The two names were redacted from the report released Wednesday by U.S. Customs and Border Protection after a Freedom of Information Act request from the Bay Area News Group, the Mercury News reported.

It is unclear if the two people were among the shooting victims or connected to the Valley Transportation Authority, where on May 26 Sam Cassidy, 57, carried out the deadliest mass shooting in Bay Area history.

The report raises new questions about why federal customs agents at the San Francisco airport appear to have never informed the VTA or local law enforcement just 35 miles (56 kilometers) away about what the agency labeled a Significant Encounter with Cassidy.

Santa Clara District Attorney Jeff Rosen said Wednesday that he had received a copy of the redacted report last week.

I remain deeply troubled that something could have been done to identify or stop the man who cut down and destroyed so many lives, Rosen said. I am meeting with federal and local officials in coming weeks to address this issue. Sharing information saves lives.

Customs and Border Protection did not return calls Wednesday morning for further explanation of why agents didnt pass the information about the encounter with Cassidy to local authorities or the VTA.

Customs agents spent two hours questioning Cassidy and searching his luggage, phone and digital camera on Aug. 8, 2016, when he returned from a two-week solo trip to the Philippines.

The report shows that the agents appeared to spend more time examining whether Cassidy had traveled abroad for sex tourism  noting the sex friendly hotels he listed in his writings along with text messages with local women  than the memo book in his luggage that expressed his hatred of the VTA.

Agents asked Cassidy if he had problems at work with anyone, and he stated no.

Had the agents at SFO alerted the VTA or local law enforcement, Californias red flag law could have come into play, allowing local authorities to cite the report to obtain a gun-violence restraining order, for instance, to temporarily seize firearms while authorities assessed whether Cassidy posed a public danger. They also could have also used the information to conduct an independent evaluation of the photographs in Cassidys phone or camera.
On July Fourth, President Joe Biden celebrated dramatic progress in the war on the coronavirus, with more than 150 million adults fully vaccinated and infections plunging 93% since Inauguration Day. "Together, we're beating the virus," Biden said at a party on the White House lawn.

But at the recent Conservative Political Action Conference, attendees celebrated a different - essentially opposite - milestone: that Biden had missed his goal of vaccinating 70% of adults.

"Clearly they were hoping - the government was hoping - that they could sort of sucker 90% of the population into getting vaccinated," activist Alex Berenson told the crowd Saturday, seeming to inflate Biden's target. "And it isn't happening."

The crowd clapped and cheered at that failure.

What began as "vaccine hesitancy" has morphed into outright vaccine hostility, as conservatives increasingly attack the White House's coronavirus message, mischaracterize its vaccination campaign and, more and more, vow to skip the shots altogether.

The notion that the vaccine drive is pointless or harmful - or perhaps even a government plot - is increasingly an article of faith among supporters of former president Donald Trump, on a par with assertions that the last election was stolen and the assault on the U.S. Capitol was overblown.

Appearing at CPAC, such lawmakers as Reps. Madison Cawthorn, R-N.C., and Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., took aim at Biden's push for "door-to-door" vaccine outreach, framing efforts to boost inoculations as a creeping menace from big government.

"We're here to tell government, we don't want your benefits, we don't want your welfare, don't come knocking on my door with your Fauci ouchie," Boebert said, referring to Biden's top medical adviser, Anthony Fauci, her voice rising as she paced the stage and shook her finger. "You leave us the hell alone!"

In Tennessee, health officials on Friday were ordered to halt outreach to adolescents for all vaccines - not just the coronavirus shot - after pressure from Republican lawmakers, as The Tennessean first reported. That prohibition extends to vaccines for flu, human papillomavirus and other infectious diseases.

Michelle Fiscus, Tennessee's former top vaccine official, said in a statement Monday that she had just been fired for promoting immunizations. "I have been terminated for doing my job because some of our politicians have bought into the anti-vaccine misinformation campaign rather than taking the time to speak with the medical experts," Fiscus said.

Tennessee officials did not respond to a request for comment.

On television and online, conservative media outlets are amplifying fears about the vaccine.

"Vaccine door-knocking instructions revealed," read one headline Tuesday on One America News's website, with an accompanying video that grappled with what to do if "Big Brother comes knocking." Newsmax host Rob Schmitt suggested last week that vaccines go "against nature," though the network later said it supports Biden's efforts to distribute the vaccine.

And Fox News's Tucker Carlson, who at times has backed the vaccine, has also said, "Maybe it doesn't work, and they're simply not telling you that."

The message is resonating and the resistance solidifying. Twenty-nine percent of Americans in a recent Washington Post-ABC News poll said they were unlikely to get vaccinated (including 20% who said they definitely would not). That compared with 24% who said they were unlikely to get a shot three months earlier.

The trend is unsettling public health experts, particularly as the outbreak worsens again. Confirmed U.S. coronavirus cases have more than doubled in the past week, with deaths rising 28%. Medical experts say those deaths are almost entirely among unvaccinated Americans.

"We always ask, what will be the last straw? What will be the moment that we lose the ability to communicate and cooperate and get things done?" said Frank Luntz, a longtime GOP pollster who's been working to encourage vaccinations. "Well, we've reached it. This is it."

He added, "Now decisions are being made not because of evidence or facts or statistics, but strictly on political lines. And now people are going to die."

For months, public health experts have been hammering on one big message: Vaccines are safe, effective and the best way to stamp out the pandemic. But red and blue America have responded in different ways to these exhortations, leaving Trump country particularly vulnerable to the coronavirus, those experts say.

The Kaiser Family Foundation found last week that nearly 47% of residents in counties won by Biden were fully vaccinated, compared to 35% of residents in Trump counties. And that has pitted some traditional Republican lawmakers against those in the populist, Trump-aligned wing.

"I don't know how many times you all heard me say this, but I'm a huge fan of vaccinations," Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., told reporters on Monday, citing his own experience surviving polio. McConnell said he was "perplexed" by the slowdown in coronavirus shots.

Asked about GOP lawmakers like Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin who are raising doubts about the vaccines, McConnell demurred. "I can only speak for myself," he said.

School boards are increasingly emerging a battleground for vaccine fights, and trend that is all but certain to intensify in the fall. Last Wednesday, Arizona Republican Gov. Doug Ducey's office sent a letter challenging two schools districts on a requirement that unvaccinated students who have been exposed to covid-19 must quarantine for 10 days. Ducey's office argued that this policy violates a state law saying schools can't require vaccines.

On Sunday, onstage at CPAC as the final speaker, Trump bragged of pushing federal health agencies to make the vaccines a reality. "Thanks to the relentless efforts of my administration - and me," he added after a slight pause - "we got miraculous therapeutics straight to patients with historic speed, and we produced three vaccines to end the pandemic in record time."

The staunchly pro-Trump audience cheered. But in interviews, some attendees - huge Trump fans all - still said nothing could convince them to get their shots.

Gregory Chittum, a 58-year-old from Port Aransas, Texas, said he admires Trump and blames Fauci rather than the former president for the vaccine. "He depended on Fauci!" Chittum exclaimed.

Chittum, who rattled off misinformation about the coronavirus - claiming that it has killed only 12,000 people in the United States rather than the 607,000-plus deaths measured by the Centers for the Disease Control and Prevention - vowed that his opposition to the vaccines would not melt away with more time and testing.

"You're going to have to bury me to get it," he said.

One of the few ways to change the minds of people like Chittum, Luntz said, is for Trump himself to get involved and endorse the vaccine in a full-throated way. "He says he wants to get the credit for developing the vaccines, but his followers are saying - in his name - that the vaccines are killing people," Luntz said. "You can't have it both ways."

Trump may be wary of alienating the base that adores him, a former senior Trump official said.

"It's a chicken-and-egg problem," said the former official, who requested confidentiality to stay on good terms with Trump's retinue. "Is he willing to use the immense credibility he has with that base to endorse the benefits of covid vaccination, or does he want to sit back and not have his base get mad at him?"

A White House official stressed that despite the anti-vaccine sentiment, millions of Americans continue to get vaccinated every week. Still, Biden aides concede that the remaining group of unvaccinated Americans will be the hardest to persuade.

On Thursday, Surgeon General Vivek Murthy will attend the regular White House press briefing to discuss a new report on misinformation about coronavirus vaccines and how the administration plans to fight back against conspiracy theories and disinformation.

"I think the White House has come to the conclusion that something more has to be done," Francis Collins, director of the National Institutes of Health, said Wednesday on CNN. "We have to take this on frontally and not simply shrug it off as if, 'Well, people will eventually come around to the right perspective.' We're losing time here. The delta variant is spreading. People are dying. We can't actually just wait for things to get more rational."

It remains unclear what a Democratic administration can do to reach those who still have no interest in getting vaccinated, especially as immunizations become the latest flash point in America's bitter war over identity and culture.

"Anything that comes from the Biden administration will be rejected out of hand regardless of what the message is," said Celine Gounder, an epidemiologist at New York's Bellevue Hospital and a member of Biden's coronavirus transition task force. "That really requires conservatives to, in a sense, mobilize independently of the Biden administration. And who would it be to do that?"

Some former Trump administration officials have been privately discussing whether they can find a way to help the national effort. Former health and human services secretary Alex Azar has floated the idea of a joint public service announcement with other former Democratic and Republican health secretaries, said two people with knowledge of the discussions.

The Biden administration has yet to reach out to Trump alumni, said three former officials, who also rebuked the White House for criticizing the Trump vaccine operation it inherited.

"They tried to distance themselves from the Trump vaccine and now they're having trouble getting the Trump supporters. They shouldn't be surprised," said Paul Mango, who as deputy chief of staff at HHS helped manage Operation Warp Speed, the program that oversaw the vaccines' development.

Mango, who did praise Biden and his aides for doing a "spectacular job" administering vaccines this year, said the current president is missing an obvious tactic: enlisting the former president. "I don't know why Biden doesn't invite Trump to the White House and hold hands and say, 'This is an American effort, we got vaccinated, let's all get vaccinated,' " Mango added.

The White House declined to comment.

The opposition of the fiercest vaccine critics is having a ripple effect even on those who are less impassioned, as some conservatives who initially championed the administration's vaccine drive are now adopting more skeptical stances.

Podcast host Megyn Kelly, who this spring shared her story of hunting for a coronavirus vaccine in New York City and repeatedly urged her listeners to get vaccinated, has more recently rebuked the effort to vaccinate younger populations.

"I don't want my kids to get this," Kelly said on her June 28 show, criticizing efforts to require vaccines for school and citing ostensible risks, like fertility problems. "Can you imagine looking at your kid and trying to explain that they lost their ability to, God forbid, do something as profound as have children because you really wanted them to participate in gym class and sports?"

There is no evidence the vaccines affect fertility, the CDC has said.

Other conservatives acknowledge the vaccines may have some worth, but are torn. Debbie Billingsly, a 67-year-old Texan who attended CPAC for the first time, said she and her husband got the coronavirus vaccine on a doctor's recommendation. Her husband is diabetic, she said, making him more vulnerable to covid-19.

"I had mixed emotions, to be honest," Billingsly said. "I don't think, though, that these companies would inject all these millions of people with something that they thought was not safe."

But now, she said, she's hearing that Pfizer is advocating booster shots.

"Why do we need a booster if it worked - you know what I'm saying?" Billingsly said. "So you kind of question what's going on."

She added, "I will not get the booster. I'm done."
BERLIN (AP)  The head of the World Health Organization acknowledged it was premature to rule out a potential link between the COVID-19 pandemic and a laboratory leak, and he said Thursday he is asking China to be more transparent as scientists search for the origins of the coronavirus.

In a rare departure from his usual deference to powerful member countries, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said getting access to raw data had been a challenge for the international team that traveled to China earlier this year to investigate the source of COVID-19. The first human cases were identified in the Chinese city of Wuhan.

Tedros told reporters that the U.N. health agency based in Geneva is asking actually China to be transparent, open and cooperate, especially on the information, raw data that we asked for at the early days of the pandemic.

He said there had been a premature push to rule out the theory that the virus might have escaped from a Chinese government lab in Wuhan - undermining WHO's own March report, which concluded that a laboratory leak was extremely unlikely.

I was a lab technician myself, Im an immunologist, and I have worked in the lab, and lab accidents happen, Tedros said. Its common.

In recent months, the idea that the pandemic started somehow in a laboratory  and perhaps involved an engineered virus  has gained traction, especially with President Joe Biden ordering a review of U.S. intelligence to assess the possibility in May.

China has struck back aggressively, arguing that attempts to link the origins of COVID-19 to a lab are politically motivated and has suggested that the outbreak might have started abroad. At WHO's annual meeting of health ministers in the spring, China said that the future search for COVID-19's origins should continue  in other countries.

Most scientists suspect that the coronavirus originated in bats, but the exact route by which it first jumped into people - via an intermediary animal or in some other way - has not yet been determined. It typically takes decades to narrow down the natural source of an animal virus like Ebola or SARS.

Tedros said that checking what happened, especially in our labs, is important" to nailing down if the pandemic had any laboratory links.

We need information, direct information on what the situation of this lab was before and at the start of the pandemic, the WHO chief said, adding that China's cooperation was critical. If we get full information, we can exclude (the lab connection).

Throughout the pandemic, Tedros has repeatedly praised China for its speed and transparency despite senior WHO officials internally griping about obfuscation from their Chinese counterparts.

Last year, The Associated Press found that WHO was frustrated by a lack of details from China during the early stages of the coronavirus' spread and showed that China was clamping down on the hidden hunt for the pandemic's origins.

Numerous public health experts have also called for an independent examination of COVID-19's origins, arguing WHO does not have the political clout to conduct such a forensic analysis and that the U.N. agency has failed after more than a year to extract critical details from China.

Jamie Metzl, who has led a group of scientists calling for a broader origins investigation, welcomed Tedros' comments but said it was deeply unfortunate and dangerous that there were no current plans for a probe led by experts beyond the U.N. health agency, saying that China has repeatedly blocked requests for all relevant records and samples.

Georgetown University law professor Lawrence Gostin, an expert in public health law, said Tedros' unusual plea for Chinese cooperation underlines how weak WHO is.

WHO has no powers or political heft to demand access to information critical for global health, Gostin, who also is director of a WHO Collaborating Center on Public Health Law and Human Rights, All Tedros can do is use the bully pulpit, but it will fall on deaf ears, he said.

Any WHO-led mission to China also requires government approval for all experts who travel to the country, as well as permission to visit field sites and final approval on any trip report.

Tedros' appeal for transparency was echoed by German Health Minister Jens Spahn, who urged Chinese officials to allow the investigation into the origins of the virus to proceed.

We do appreciate the cooperation of the Chinese government so far for the first mission," Spahn said. But thats not yet enough.

___

Cheng reported from London.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP)  Fully online education and other changes for charter schools have been approved by the West Virginia Board of Education.

The board also Wednesday approved policy changes that allow an unelected board to open charters and make way for 10 new charters every three years, instead of three every three years, The Charleston Gazette-Mail reported.
Oh my God.

Oooooh!

Oh, wow.

When you get your back cracked  on camera no less  you never know what exclamation will tumble out of your mouth.

Thats part of the fun of watching back cracking videos, which have taken Instagram and TikTok by storm.

I first encountered this strange breed of content on my Instagram discover page. It was a man by the name of @kingofcracks, and he was twisting a neck until it made a satisfying crunch!

The King of Cracks is just one among many chiropractors whove taken to social media to share their craft with the world. Many of the videos routinely get more than 10,000 likes. One famous Instagrammer, who goes by @occhiropractor, has more than 2.3 million followers on TikTok.

I set out to understand this brave new world of social media chiropractic. What makes these videos so appealing to watch? Why is it utterly satisfying to see someone get her back adjusted?

These videos have the appeal of watching a gymnast stick a difficult and dangerous landing, says Dr. Craig Richard, a professor of biopharmaceutical sciences at Shenandoah University who also runs ASMR University. The viewer feels the instant joy and relief of the gymnast, or specific to these videos, the joy and relief of the patient. The cracking sounds, the patient's expressions and the clinician's smile all confirm the immediate success.

Richard said the videos appeal to our desire for modern medicine.

These videos represent the ideal visit to a clinician; walk in with a problem and then walk out feeling better.

There is something instantly gratifying about watching the videos. Like viewing a pimple being squeezed until the pore is emptied, the back cracking videos are satisfying because they show medicine appearing to work at its best: see a problem, fix it.

Richards said the videos are not exactly ASMR  aka autonomous sensory meridian response, in which a gentle sound triggers a relaxing, tingling response in the body. Rather, the satisfaction and relief we feel watching these videos is likely due to the release of serotonin in our brains.

These online videos of back cracking and pimple popping contain the same creation and release of tension found in a two-hour movie, except the entire plot arc happens in a few short seconds, Richards said.

Dr. Jimmy Sayegh is the chiropractor behind @kingofcracks. His Rancho Cucamonga-based practice started a social media campaign just before the COVID-19 lockdown. Within weeks, it blew up.

Being online is putting the entire field into a new scope, a lot of people didn't know it existed, he said. We get tons of patients coming in saying, I saw you on Instagram, TikTok, and I never knew there was a treatment for my problem.

Sayegh estimates that hes seen an additional 500 to 700 new patients over the past year who found him solely from his social media presence.

People just love the cracks, he said.

I wanted to know how local chiropractors felt about the trend, so I reached out to Dr. Adam Jacobs of San Francisco Custom Chiropractic and Dr. Lance von Stade of Golden Gate Chiropractic.

Both chiropractors were enthusiastic about their professions newfound internet fame. They said the videos unveil some of the mystique surrounding chiropractic and how it works, making people feel less scared to try the treatment for themselves.

But von Stade also pointed out that the videos are somewhat of a double-edged sword.

Hopefully, these videos help people find out about [chiropractic], he said. But the moment of the crack is really the smallest part of our profession.

The cracking sound, which is simply gas being released from the joint, follows so much education about health, root-cause analysis about stress, and in the moment of release, so much has led up to that being able to happen, he said.

Release, he continued, is just the beginning of the process.

Jacobs said he has a problem with some of the videos that show broad-base adjustments, in which the chiropractor adjusts multiple segments of the body simultaneously to get a big crack, rather than treating an ailment with more specificity.

We dont just pop and crack and not diagnose whats wrong with the person first, he said.

Generally, Jacobs thinks its good for the profession because some people are scared of it and dont know what to expect.

Weve definitely had people come in after seeing our videos, he said.

Ive been watching the back cracking videos for at least four months now. They help me fall asleep, make me feel relaxed and relieved by proxy. But I wanted to see if getting adjusted in person would live up to the hype.

So I visited Jacobs practice in Mission Bay for a consultation (first-time appointments cost $240, but Jacobs comped the visit for me).

We began by discussing my bodys issues  stiff neck and shoulders from hunching over my desk, some wrist pain from a ganglion cyst. Jacobs then assessed my bodily motion, taking me through a series of movements (Touch your toes, Look over your shoulder).

After about 20 minutes of this, it was time for the treatment. Jacobs manipulated my body in various directions while applying pressure to my muscles. It wasnt exactly relaxing like a massage, but within moments I felt my stiff upper body muscles releasing, the tension in my head relaxing.

Then it was time for the show-stopper: the adjustments. I lay on my side while Jacobs pressed against my back, and faster than I could release my breath, I heard that satisfying crack!

Did it live up to the hype in the videos? To be honest, not really. Theres something very vulnerable about lying on a table as your body is manipulated, and my brain was too occupied by this fact to appreciate the big finish. After the 45-minute appointment, where we covered so much ground about my health, ergonomics, posture, the one-second crack was simply the cherry on top.

I still watch the videos to unwind at night. Now I just know theres much more to the story.
The Hayes Valley Carnival was one of the most hotly anticipated events of San Franciscos 1911 social calendar. Not far removed from the devastation of the 1906 earthquake and fire, the festival was meant to beckon visitors back to the neighborhood by showing off its neat new streets and happy, healthy residents.

The February carnival planned for a bevy of activities, from foot races and parades to a monster prize for the districts fattest baby. (Another contest promised to fete the most popular tot. The selection of the most popular baby in the district will be left to the visitors at the show, the Call noted.)

Hopes were high the neighborhood would usher in a new golden age. But instead, it almost immediately devolved into chaos, resulting in threats of a pageant queen lawsuit and one comically deranged divorce (that we know of).

The trouble began with the race for king and queen of the carnival. It was a popularity contest: San Franciscans were able to buy as many raffle tickets as they wished for their preferred candidate. Throughout the month of February, thousands of votes poured in each day. One of the most vigorous fights for supremacy that has ever been waged in any district affair in this city was unfolding, the Examiner reported, updating readers daily with the vote totals.

On Feb. 16, the final tally came in. Out of more than 250,000 votes cast, 16-year-old Rose Cohn was proclaimed queen and Harry Hock, 22, named king. The result sent the second-place vote getter, young Rose OBrien, into an absolute tailspin.

Rose OBrien wasnt close to winning. She received 71,266 votes to Cohns 106,994. So unable to demand a recount, she took a different approach to claiming the crown: Shortly after the results were announced, OBrien went to the carnival directors and demanded Cohn be disqualified. Rose Cohn didnt even live in Hayes Valley, OBrien complained. Her home at 824 Fell St. put her outside the district limits.

San Francisco Call/Archive

"Where does Hayes Valley begin and where does Hayes Valley end? Or has it neither beginning nor ending?" pontificated the Examiner.

Carnival directors scrambled, consulting Hayes Valleys oldest residents for their opinions on the neighborhood boundaries. Meanwhile, Rose Cohn had already been photographed for the newspapers wearing ermine and velvet robes and a gold tiara, and they were hardly inclined to depose her. By days end, the directors declared Cohn was the rightful winner, as the Hayes Valley border had recently been extended to include her stretch of Fell.

Rose OBriens fury was now volcanic. She brought an attorney to warn the directors she would be filing suit against them. In an effort to placate her, OBrien was offered her own, smaller parade float, complete with elaborate wardrobe and five pages to attend to her. "Miss O'Brien declared that she would be a full fledged queen or nothing, the Call reported. The article ran under an unforgettable headline: "WAR CLOUDS HANG OVER QUEEN'S RULE."

OBrien finally pulled her attack the day before the carnivals kickoff parade. Defeated and broken, she told reporters she was sorry for bringing infamy upon the neighborhood block party. "I feel it my duty to do everything in my power to further the success of the carnival, she said. I regret the notoriety that has been given.

As Rose OBriens campaign wound down, however, another was just beginning.

Over at 497 Hayes, liquor distributor Rudolph Ulmer was also stewing. Ulmer had handily lost the kings crown with just 30,805 votes to Harry Hocks 114,289. Nonetheless, he knew just who to blame.

OpenSFHistory / wnp37.03696

In November, Ulmer filed for divorce from his wife Mary. In his divorce complaint he charges that his defeat and the consequent humiliation were brought about largely through his wifes antagonism to his candidacy and her efforts to swing the tide of victory to his opponent, the Chronicle reported. When the pair stood before a judge, everyone was shocked to hear Mary agree with Rudolph.

She had been actuated, not by spite, but by a desire to protect him from ridicule and because she did not believe a married man with a child should parade the streets with a tinsel crown aping the ways of the crowned heads of Europe, the Examiner wrote.

As to my working against my husband when he wanted to be king, it is true, Mary told the judge. But I only got 1,000 votes against him.

The judge threw out the filing, but Rudolph was determined. He filed again, still citing the carnival as his primary grounds for divorce. This time, Mary admitted she threw glassware at him during the voting drama, telling a judge she was frustrated Rudolph was spending money promoting his candidacy when they needed basic household goods. The unladylike gesture lost her some support in the press.

Such is the result of introducing politics in the home, and perhaps Mrs. Ulmer thought she was in Chicago, the Call lectured.

Rudolphs third divorce filing was the charm. This time, he left out the carnival shenanigans and instead stuck to calling his wife intemperate and accusing her of desertion. In March 1913, the divorce was granted.

By the 1920 census, Rudolph was remarried. He and his new wife Helen had several children and were still living in San Francisco.

It is unknown whether Helen supported Rudolphs dream of becoming a king.
You are now listening to the sounds of the New Generation. A podcast created for those who desire a new way of gaining information rather than reading a traditional newspaper. In our show we will discuss everything from sports, pop culture, politics, and local news. To stay up to date on our latest episodes every week be sure to follow us on your favorite podcast service. And dont worry, we keep it short.
BETHEL  Despite commands not to drive, a state trooper charged with driving under the influence last weekend told an officer to watch this before driving away, a police report obtained Wednesday shows.

Andrew Murphy, a trooper assigned to the Troop A barracks in Southbury, is facing charges of operating under the influence of alcohol, disobeying the signal of an officer and interfering with an officer. He was released from custody after a friend posted $500 bond and is due to appear Monday in state Superior Court in Danbury.

Murphy, a state trooper since July 2019, has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation, state police officials said.

In a police report obtained by Hearst Connecticut Media, Bethel police said Murphy repeatedly told them he was a state police officer, and claimed they were hurting one of their own in a expletive-laden interaction.

The report also said Murphy refused a urine test, and was uncooperative during questioning after his arrest, forcing officers to repeatedly ask him to stop yelling, according to the report.

The incident began around 2:10 a.m. Sunday when a patrol officer spotted Murphy standing by the open door of his Mazda sedan in the parking lot of a 7-Eleven on Stony Hill Road, according to the report.

As the officer approached, he reported that he saw Murphy was having difficulty keeping his balance, the report said. He shouted at Murphy to ask if he was all right, and was told in very slurred speech that he was fine, according to the report.

The officer told Murphy he looked like he needed a ride and did not want him to be driving, the report read.

When the state trooper got into his car, the officer wrote in the report that he yelled at him to stop and not to drive, but Murphy told him watch this, watch me!

Murphy then pulled out of the lot without wearing his seat belt and drove to his home about a mile away, the report said.

When the officer spotted a tire on Murphys car go off the road, he put on his lights and siren to pull Murphy over, but he did not stop, the report said. Along the way, the officer claims Murphy was drifting around turns and driving at around 10 mph, the report said.

When Murphy pulled into the driveway of his home, the officer requested backup.

As Murphy got out of his car, he had such poor balance  he needed to brace himself on his vehicle, the report said.

When the officer asked Murphy why he didnt stop, he told the officer he wanted to go home, and pointed to his Connecticut State Police cruiser in the driveway, according to the report.

The officer wrote in the report that he smelled a strong odor of alcoholic beverage coming from Murphys breath, and that the trooper told him he had had four drinks that night, the report said.

The officer conducted a field sobriety test, during which Murphy told police he needed an ambulance because everything hurt, the officer wrote in the report.

When police questioned Murphy about whether his firearm was in the car, he became aggressive and began yelling, according to the report, claiming Bethel police were (expletive) one of your own.

He was transported to Danbury Hospital before being taken to the Bethel Police Department and processed, according to the report.

About two hours after arriving at the police station, the officer reported that Murphy began talking with me and appeared able to gather his words better than before. Murphy began asking me questions about the motor vehicle stop and how he ended up getting arrested.

The questions included how Murphy ended up at the 7-Eleven, the officer wrote in the report.

Murphy is not the only state police trooper to face a DUI charge in recent years. State police charged one of their own, Sgt. John McDonald, with driving under the influence in 2019. State police said McDonald was leaving a retirement party for another officer at a Brewery in Oxford when he drove through a stop sign and struck a car carrying a woman and her daughter.

McDonald pleaded nolo contendere to to two counts of second-degree reckless endangerment last month as part of a plea agreement that will allow him to complete a pretrial alcohol education program and have the DUI charge dismissed. State police said Wednesday McDonald remains on administrative suspension.
I got in my car this afternoon, and quite literally couldnt breathe. The heat this year has been stifling, to say the least, and as I drove a
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Page Content

On June 10, the First U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the dismissal of a plaintiff's lawsuit alleging, among other things, failure to pay wages under the Massachusetts Wage Act. In Rose v. RTN Federal Credit Union, the First Circuit held that the Labor Management Relations Act (LMRA) pre-empted the plaintiff's wage claims because she was a member of a union and because her employer, RTN Federal Credit Union, had an existing collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the union that governed her wages and overtime pay.

Background of the Case

The plaintiff was employed by RTN as a member services representative, a position covered under the CBA between RTN and the Office and Professional Employees International Union, AFL-CIO, Local 6. The plaintiff usually worked at RTN's branch in Hudson, Mass., but the credit union periodically assigned her to its Dedham, Mass., branch. The plaintiff alleged that her assignment to the Dedham branch increased her typical commute by approximately one hour each way, and that RTN's failure to compensate her for the extra travel time violated the Massachusetts Wage Act. She also alleged that RTN violated a Massachusetts regulation, 454 Mass. Code Regs. 27.04(4)(b), which provides that an employee who "regularly works at a fixed location" must be compensated for the extra time and expense involved in traveling to a location other than the employee's "regular work site." The plaintiff filed a lawsuit against RTN seeking unpaid wages and expenses, as well as unpaid overtime for any workweeks that exceeded 40 hours due to her additional commuting time.



The Labor Management Relations Act

The question before the First Circuit was whether the LMRA pre-empted the plaintiff's state-law wage claims, and specifically whether she could advance her state law claims separately from the CBA.

The LMRA is a body of federal labor law that governs the interpretation of collective bargaining agreements between employers and unions. Generally, if a plaintiff's state-based employment claims require interpretation of one or more provisions of a collective bargaining agreement, the claims come within the ambit of the LMRA and thus are pre-empted by federal law. But not every dispute concerning employment is pre-empted by the LMRA. Indeed, where state law establishes a substantive right, obligation, or prohibition independent of any CBA, the LMRA is not implicated and the state law claim may proceed.

Court Affirms Dismissal of Wage Act Claim

In Rose, the First Circuit dismissed the Massachusetts Wage Act claim against RTN because adjudicating the claim would require the interpretation of a provision in the CBA between RTN and the union. The CBA in question contained a provision that governed "temporary transfers" of employees between branches.

The First Circuit explained that lawsuits involving an analysis or calculation of what is owed to an employee will "almost always" rely on interpretations and applications of the CBA in question, and thus will be pre-empted by the LMRA. According to the First Circuit, whether RTN lawfully compensated the plaintiff for her travel time, any overtime hours, or the minimum wage would require an analysis of the CBA provisions governing "hours of work," "premium time," "overtime," and "classification and wages." Accordingly, the First Circuit upheld the district court's ruling that the plaintiff was bound to pursue her claims through the grievance and arbitration provision of the CBA.

Takeaways for Employers

Employers with union-organized workplaces and employees may want to remain mindful of the potential federal pre-emption issues raised by employee legal claims that implicate the provisions of a CBA. Often, although certainly not always, employment claims brought by union members involving the nonpayment of wages, overtime, or other benefits and compensation, including workers' compensation issues, will be pre-empted by the LMRA if the CBA governs such terms and conditions of employment. Employers presented with a union member-employee's lawsuit may want to carefully examine the terms of the CBA in order to determine whether, and to what extent, the claims asserted may be subject to an LMRA pre-emption defense.

Patrick M. Curran Jr. and Lorenzo R. Cabantog are attorneys with Ogletree Deakins in Boston.  2021 Ogletree Deakins. All rights reserved. Reposted with permission.
Page Content

The Virginia Office of Civil Rights has issued its new poster for employers regarding reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. Starting July 1, covered Virginia employers must post this poster in a conspicuous location and provide a copy of the poster to any employee who discloses they have a disability, within 10 days of that disclosure.

The poster clarifies that the law applies to employers with more than five employees for a 20-week period in the current or preceding year. The law takes effect July 1, requiring most Virginia employers to include information in their employee handbooks about reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities and provide that information directly to any employee within 10 days after receiving notice that the employee has a disability.

This new requirement is modeled on last year's Virginia pregnancy accommodation law, which requires that employers include information in their handbooks about pregnancy accommodations, as well as provide that information to employees within 10 days of receiving notice that an employee is pregnant. These are the only two laws in Virginia requiring specific handbook policies, and the only two requiring notices to employees triggered by specific events that occur during employment. As a result, Virginia employers must now act promptly when an employee informs them that the employee is pregnant or has a disability.

2020 Pregnancy Accommodation Law

Under a law that took effect on July 1, 2020, Virginia employers with at least five employees must make reasonable accommodations to known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, in the absence of undue hardship. The law also mandates that employers include information in their handbooks about an employee's right to reasonable accommodation due to pregnancy, post such information in a conspicuous location, and provide that information directly to new employees and to any employee within 10 days of that employee providing notice to the employer that she is pregnant.

This was the first law in Virginia requiring specific information in employee handbooks and the first requiring employers to respond to an employee disclosure (in this case, pregnancy) with specific notice information. The Virginia Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (DLLR) has issued a poster that can be used as a basis for the employer's policy and notice to employees.

2021 Reasonable Accommodation Law

In 2021, the Virginia legislature passed similar protections for employees with disabilities, which took effect on July 1, 2021. Employers with more than five employees must ensure that their handbooks include information about an employee's right to reasonable accommodation for disabilities and must post that information in a conspicuous location.



Employers also must provide information about the law to new employees, as well as to any employee who discloses they have a disability within 10 days of that disclosure. As of the date of this article, no poster has been issued by the Commonwealth to satisfy the posting or notice requirements.

Compliance Steps for Employers

Employers covered by these laws whose handbooks do not contain information about (1) pregnancy accommodations and (2) accommodations for employees with disabilities should immediately adopt such policies and start distributing them to new hires.

In addition, employers should post the DLLR's pregnancy accommodation poster, as well as its own policy on reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities.

An employee's disclosure of a pregnancy or disability triggers an additional notice requirement. Within 10 days of such disclosure, the employer must provide the employee with a copy of that policy or notice.

Alyson J. Guyan and Teresa Burke Wright are attorneys with Jackson Lewis in the Washington, D.C., metro area. Crystal L. Tyler is an attorney with Jackson Lewis in Richmond, Va.  2021 Jackson Lewis. All rights reserved. Reposted with permission.
Malik review: A fantastic experience. Dont miss it!

Malik review: A fantastic experience. Dont miss it!

Source: SIFY By: MOVIEBUZZ Critic's Rating: 4/5 Thursday 15 July 2021

Movie Title Malik review: A fantastic experience. Dont miss it! Director Mahesh Narayanan

Star Cast Fahadh Faasil, Nimisha Sajayan, Dileesh, Joju George

After the well-appreciated Take Off and C U Soon, writer-director Mahesh Narayanan and actor Fahadh Faasil are teaming up once again in Malik, which has been set in a coastal village of Kerala.

Sulaiman (Fahadh Faasil) is an aging patriarch, who is the uncrowned king of the coastal area of Ramadappalli. The long first shot introduces the viewer to the world of Sulaiman, who is known as Ali Ikka to the locals.

Soon after, he is arrested as he is about to get into the aircraft on his journey for the holy Hajj. The eventful story of how Sulaiman and his gang of friends become so influential in their area is being told then. The situation in that peaceful territory later takes an unfortunate turn when some wily men, politicians, and the cops create a divide between the people there, in the name of religion.

The story chronicles over some decades and it is amazing the way that Mahesh has created the atmosphere. You feel like growing up with Sulaiman and his friends. Sanu John Varugheses delicious visuals and Sushin Shyams brilliant music add to the effect in a spectacular way.

Mahesh Narayanan had created magic on screen as a director, earlier with an emotional tale happening in the war-hit Iraq in Take Off and then by making the thrilling C U Soon during the lockdown. In Malik he is telling a story that is relevant during these times when religion is often seen creating walls between people at times in a scary way.

He keeps the viewer thoroughly engaged for the 2 hours and 41 minutes, unveiling the story of the people of Ramadappalli through interesting incidents and some dramatic twists and turns.

With another brilliant performance, Fahadh Faasil steals the show here. He gets into the shoes of his character with remarkable perfection and makes his Godfather-like character so believable. Nimisha Sajayan is terrific as Roselin, who is Sulaimans wife. Joju George, Vinay Forrt, Dileesh Pothan, Jalaja, and Indrans perform their parts very well. On the downside, the film is a tad too long at 2 hours 40 minutes and the plot is familiar.

Malik is never an easy movie to make considering its elaborate canvas, settings, and details. Of course, you would miss the experience of watching this one at the theatres. It is not often that such a grand spectacle continues to remain in your minds and affect you like this, long after the end titles start rolling. Malik is such a fantastic experience. Dont miss it!

Verdict: Excellent
Santhosh George Kulangara, 49, is best described as a one man army who in the past more than a decade has travelled to 130 countries and has done 1,800 episodes of travel documentaries being aired on his own TV channel. During one such visit to England in 2005, he spotted an ad in a newspaper inviting applicants for space travel.

Speaking to IANS, Kulangara said that advertisement interested him and prompted his application to Richard Branson, the founder of the Virgin Group.

"After that lot of paperwork took place and it was in 2007 that his application for it was cleared. Then I had regular meetings with them at their Space Centre or at their office in California and completed two training programmes in 2012 and 2013 and since then it's been a wait," said Kulangara.

"Honestly speaking as time elapses, the excitement I had when I first saw the ad in 2005 that I can travel to space is no longer there, now. The reason is, I do not consider that a space travel is the ultimate dream, that I have now, but nevertheless, I am happy that with their first mission taking place last week has turned successful, is definitely a good sign that my travel might take place soon," said Kulangara.

"We have regular meetings with Branson's team who keeps giving us updates and we are having the first interaction tomorrow with him, after he has returned from the first trip to space. We are expecting him to share his experience," added Kulangara.

"At the moment, I feel I am the first one from India who has registered and I do not know, if there are others from India. As things stand, my guess is with the first trip taking place, I might be going for the space trip, this year itself. I am ready for it anytime and there will be one last round of training," said Kulangara.

Kulangara travels all alone for doing his travelogue and just before Covid struck, he was in Mexico and he has now plans to travel to Iran and a few other countries and it will be done when the Covid tapers off.

Emphasising that one reason why his excitement that was there when he registered for the travel, is no longer there, he said it's because at the moment his dream is to finish his 50,000 sq feet production studio, which is fast nearing completion at Kochi.

"When complete, this will be the most updated studio as in the modern world, film shooting is all about technology and not going for an outdoor shoot in an area of 500 acres. Such times have gone and now technology has taken over and all the big budget films that one sees are done using technology. This is my dream now," quipped Kulangara.
By Dr Margarita Peredaryenko / Ameen Kamal



Unfortunately, repeat clusters show that simply trusting industries and people (and even politicians) to manage and self-enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) are not reliable.

At the same time, we can't be in a state of total lockdown forever, but we can't simply loosen restrictions entirely either, especially when our percentage of the vaccinated population is still relatively low (though it is picking up considerable pace).

A balance between strict lockdowns and full relaxation of movement restrictions can be achieved through a technology-powered mass testing, tracing and isolation.

The need for increased testing is aligned with the call by experts, including the Director-General (DG) of Health, Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah and Dr Kumitaa Theva Das, senior lecturer at the Infectomics Cluster, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute (AMDI), Science University of Malaysia.

Both experts pointed to the need for increased testing to isolate cases, and mentioned the use of saliva-based test kits that can be used at home.

The prerequisites for an effective self-test kit are speed, sensitivity, specificity, cost, and ready availability for the masses.

The Health DG did reportedly mention that the saliva-based test kit had a sensitivity "above 90%", but specificity was not mentioned. Both the specificity and sensitivity of symptomatic and asymptomatic rates are not known.

However, we can refer to potential figures based on a saliva-based test kit launched by Indonesia's largest pharmaceutical company, Kalbe Farma, whereby a 94% sensitivity and 98% specificity (achieved in clinical trials) was mentioned during a press conference.

In any case, the "above 90% sensitivity" may be sufficient for quelling infections through mass detection and isolation in the near timeframe given that it is accompanied by an increasingly vaccinated population in the background.

Also, it's likely that the apparent background of high disease prevalence would push up the positive predictive value. In other words, there's a high chance the positive cases are true positives.

In further addressing "escapes", testing has to be wide and frequent. Studies [1],[2] on mass testing effectiveness in Slovakia indicate that mass testing may need more than just one round to make a difference before a decrease in infections and R-naught was observed.

Furthermore, multiple-round testing addresses the fact that test results depend on the stage of a certain person's post-exposure to the virus and the type of test used.

One important consideration for wide and frequent tests is, of course, costs. Home test kits  as explored by the authorities  may overcome traditional issues related to centralized testing such as sample logistics, but it has to be cheap enough.

That said, it has been reported that industries appear to be complaining about costs of antigen tests (which is a far cheaper alternative than RT-PCR), which raises concern about the affordability for mass dissemination of these home test kits.

The Health DG pointed that the tests should be focused on detecting and isolating low-risk positive cases. He reportedly mentioned that Category 1 (no symptoms) or Category 2 (mild symptoms) cases make up about 80% of the positive cases and that isolating these cases can reduce community infections.

Though the World Health Organization (WHO) interim guidance on "Recommendations for national SARS-CoV-2 testing strategies and diagnostic capacities" dated June 25 this year suggest only to test asymptomatic contacts of confirmed or probable cases (including health care workers) while other asymptomatic cases are not recommended to be tested, this could result in many detection escapes that might still be moving in the community to continue infecting others  risking to undo the entire mass testing and isolation efforts.

A study in the UK found that the proportion of asymptomatic carriers in the population to be quite substantial (between 28% to 90%), whereby the 80% value mentioned by the Health DG appear to fall within this range. However, the sequence of prioritization by the WHO could be followed in that the testing should prioritize clusters (workplaces, construction sites, factories etc.) alongside strict implementation (monitoring and enforcement) of SOPs. This can then be followed by the rest of the population, according to suggested prioritization under the WHO guideline.

Needless to say, the use of home-based test kits raises valid concerns about the proper use of the kit, and most importantly, proper actions by the public.

There must be a credible way of reporting and verification of test results.

Therefore, the widespread general practitioner (GP) clinics and pharmacies may be empowered to provide rapid testing and reporting.

Thus, individuals can immediately receive test result validation with a QR code at these places, that could be scanned by MySejahtera to update the testing status of the person.

While following testing prioritization, asymptomatic cases may still need to be detected and isolated for a sustainable reduction in transmission, as pointed out by the Health DG.

However, we are mindful of potential resource constraints, by which the WHO interim guidance provides recommendations on how testing should be prioritized.

Therefore, to complement the mass testing arm, we need a wider and faster contract tracing. This is where we may want to revisit our digital contact tracing effort initiated by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (Mosti) back in May 2020 with the MyTrace app.

Some countries that embarked on this initiative eventually abandoned it. However, the successful ones have discovered that mobile app-based contact tracing can be essential to work with their manual contact tracing systems.

Manual tracing can detect the known exposures, while its digital arm ensures speed and coverage of non-obvious encountersstrangers who happened to be in very close proximity as determined by Bluetooth low-energy (BLE) tech.

These application types started making waves early in 2020. MIT Technology Review even created Covid Tracing Tracker to document the efforts worldwide and review the success and failures so that the global community can learn and improve.

"It does not work" versus "how to make it work" attitude consistently differentiates success and failure.

To work effectively, these apps do not need to be adopted by the majority. We need to stop "it is all or nothing" thinking. Every case detected early matters as potential sources of further transmission chain can be nipped in the bud.

Successful countries such as, for example, Germany and Ireland, have made their apps' code open source to ward off privacy concerns. On top of that, they increase the community outreach to educate critics and skeptics on how the app works and its importance through constant media campaigns.

The successful initiatives must be accompanied by clear, publicly available policies with regards to data storage and use limited to public health.

Interestingly, although all countries initially tried to build their own functionality around BLE signatures on mobile devices, the successful ones quickly switched or at least combined it with the application programming interface (API) to the Apple-Google exposure notification system.

Although the Apple-Google system may offer an alternative way of exposure assessment, to date it does share important insights into how COVID-19 is spreading with public health officials.

Although Apple-Google APIs do take away the burden of development, we still need to set the parameters rightbeing "how far" and "how long" should be considered an exposure. Even with express tests massively available, false alerts would not be a big problem. Furthermore, once the app has been running for a few weeks, the parameters can be optimized.

Singapore's Bluetooth-enabled wearable token working with its TraceTogether app is another idea worthy of exploring to expand digital contract tracing to individuals without a mobile device. Therefore, TraceTogether is now a single mandated platform for check-ins in public places nationwide. This could be coupled with new on-site detection technologies such as breathalyzers that may be better at detecting asymptomatic individuals who would otherwise not be detected by temperature scanners.

The fact that the TraceTogether app and token utilize digital proximity tracing (via Bluetooth) increases the reach and speed of contact tracing, which has always been a critical contributor to Singapore's success.

Perhaps, we too do not need a siloed app but use the MySejahtera app while enhancing it with BLE/APIs enabled exposure tracing.

Of course, mass test-trace efforts need to be further strengthened by self-isolation. Some countries experimented with random location checks via "share my location" and other more privacy-invasive technology gimmicks.

However, do we need to go that far if we all can exercise our civic responsibility? After all, even the best strategic effort can always fail without healthy goodwill from the public.

The rakyat's exhaustion is a vast understatement.

However, as much as the rakyat would probably like to punish all the irresponsible leaders with mistrust and ignorance, this is not the right time to do so.

Right now, we need to provide all our trust, support and cooperation for the sake of those few who do try their best to stop this pandemic, including our exhausted health frontliners.

(Dr. Margarita Peredaryenko and Ameen Kamal are part of the research team of EMIR Research, an independent think tank focused on strategic policy recommendations based on rigorous research.)
PETALING JAYA, July 15 (Sin Chew Daily) -- Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) holders are eligible to apply for Bachelor of Teaching Degree Program (PISMP)-UEC starting July 16 via the Education Ministry's portal, says Deputy Education Minister Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon.



Like previous years, the ministry has allocated 20 seats for Chinese independent school graduates who are UEC holders. SPM holders of 2018, 2019 and 2020 are also eligible to apply.

In a statement, Dr Mah said deadline of the application is July 22.

"Based on the records, the response from Chinese independent school graduates have not been encouraging for the past ten years.

"Only 55 took up 200 seats offered by the program in the last ten years," he said.

Dr Mah said during a virtual dialogue held with various Chinese education groups that the education ministry hoped to increase the number of applicants from Chinese independent schools.

Graduates who have a credit in Bahasa Melayu and English, a pass in Sejarah in their SPM, along with a credit in three subjects in UEC, will be eligible to apply for the five-year program to become a trained teacher.

Dr Mah said the ministry had been upgrading the application criteria according to education policy and the Malaysia Education Blueprint, mainly to recruit the best students to become teachers in order to improve the overall quality of education in the country.

The Malaysia Education Blueprint has targeted to recruit 10% of top students to be teachers.
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A Tax Office investigation into Chinese labour supplier Scott Shi, who placed thousands of foreign workers into Australian meatworks, will be heard before the High Court as he tries to keep secret the whereabouts of more than $100 million in assets believed to have been moved offshore.

The Australian Taxation Office is seeking an order from the High Court to force Mr Shi, also known as Zu Neng Shi, to give access to a sealed document. He is resisting because he fears it could be used to bring criminal charges against him.

A worker at Midfield Meats. Credit:Nicole Cleary

Mr Shi, an accused tax evader, has for two years refused to provide the information to Tax Commissioner Chris Jordan and his investigators. The High Court is now being asked to weigh the right of an individual  Mr Shi to be protected from self-incrimination against the public good in the recovery of a multimillion-dollar tax debt.

Mr Shi has been of interest to Tax Office investigators since 2014. His wealth is built on his many years of operating 29 companies supplying 1100 Chinese, Taiwanese and other Asian workers a year to the meat industry. His businesses earned revenues of $349 million between 2008 and 2017.
Some schools are going ahead with HSC trials on Monday despite the Greater Sydney lockdown, as the COVID-19 outbreak coincides with the beginning of the Higher School Certificate exam season.

Ascham School in Sydneys east sent a letter to parents saying it has decided to continue its assessments as planned from Monday after discussing the matter with NSW Health, the NSW Education Standards Authority and the NSW Association of Independent Schools.

The trial exams would be subject to a stringent COVID-19 safety plan, including fewer than 25 students in one space, increased cleaning, hand sanitising, symptomatic screening and staggered arrival times.

Ascham to proceed with HSC trials on Monday. Credit:Janie Barrett

Students would also have to wear masks, the school said, although further advice on that would be provided. At present, all high school students in Greater Sydney must wear masks while on school grounds.
Off-contract NRL player Jamil Hopoate hit his partner in the face, spat at her and threatened to bash intervening security guards after an argument that began because he didnt want to leave a club, court documents allege.

The 26-year-old awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to multiple assault and driving charges following the incident with his de facto partner of more than six years, Shae Beathe, at the Panthers Port Macquarie club on December 28, 2020.

John Hopoate (left) and his son, Jamil Hopoate. Credit:Janie Barrett

He walked into Sydneys Central Local Court on Thursday, days after being released on bail on drug supply charges relating to a $154 million cocaine importation investigation, only to hear a detention application would be made to put him back in prison. But within hours, it had been withdrawn.

The former Brisbane Broncos player was accompanied by his father, former Manly player John Hopoate, who wore a matching baby pink hooded jumper and beanie and sat outside the courtroom.
About 70 pharmacies in Sydneys COVID-19 hotspots have been fast-tracked to administer AstraZeneca jabs from next week, with another 365 chemists in metropolitan Sydney and surrounding areas set to follow within the month.

The delivery of thousands of doses from the federal government to NSW community pharmacies is a new phase in the vaccine rollout as the industrys peak body says more convenient and after-hours access will boost vaccine uptake and help combat the citys growing Delta outbreak.

David Tran, a pharmacist at Blooms The Chemist in Padstow, will begin administering AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines in July. Credit:Wolter Peeters

Pharmacy Guild of Australia president Trent Twomey said he expected at least 70 chemists in Fairfield, Liverpool and Canterbury-Bankstown could give vaccines from the end of next week. The states health authorities on Wednesday approved pharmacists to administer AstraZeneca vaccines to people aged 40 and over.

We think this will make a huge difference and our hope is that pharmacies across the country will be able to eventually offer a number of different COVID-19 vaccines, including Pfizer, for all patients, said Mr Twomey.
A police officer has been found guilty of neglecting his duty after failing to properly look at the criminal history of sexual predator Anthony Sampieri days before the paroled rapist went on to sexually assault a seven-year-old girl.

Andrew Michael Bruce, 33, faced a hearing in Downing Centre Local Court on two charges of neglecting his duty, accused of failing to look at Sampieris full criminal record when a complaint was made against him about harassing phone calls, and failing to notify community corrections staff about the new allegation.

Andrew Bruce leaves court on Thursday. Credit:Janie Barrett

On Thursday, Magistrate Vivien Swain found Mr Bruce guilty of failing to look at Sampieris full criminal record, but found there was insufficient evidence that the highly-regarded leading senior constable failed to contact community corrections as he was required to.

Ms Swain sentenced Mr Bruce to a four-month conditional release order, without conviction, which requires him to be of good behaviour. She found the offence was at the lower end of objective seriousness.
The frontline of Sydneys COVID-19 outbreak has widened from family homes to workplaces across the city, with potential clusters emerging at a major building site, two hospitals and an aged care facility.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian warned Fridays numbers would be higher because 35 of the 65 new cases in NSW reported on Thursday spent some time in the community while infectious. The lockdown will not end on July 30 unless that infectious figure reaches zero.

SydPath staff conduct COVID-19 tests at the 24-hour drive through clinic at Fairfield Showground. Credit:Louise Kennerley

In Victoria, Premier Dan Andrews announced a five-day lockdown from midnight after further cases from NSWs outbreak seeded interstate.

Ms Berejiklian is under pressure to define what constitutes an essential worker, however she said on Thursday the health orders were clear and everyone must stay at home unless absolutely necessary.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are warned that the following article contains images and names of deceased people.

Frank Gud Colemans family want to know how he spent his final moments: they want to know why he died, if he was alone and if he was in pain.

The 43-year-old was found unresponsive on the floor of his Long Bay Correctional Centre cell at 5.45am on July 8, and was pronounced dead almost 40 minutes later.

Lakota Coleman and Skye Hipwell say they are devastated by the loss of their father and ex-partner. Credit:James Brickwood

Frank was healthy. His death came as a complete shock to us, Mr Colemans former partner Skye Hipwell said. We dont know how he died, or what his final moments were like: was he in pain? I dont know if we will ever know what happened to Frank.
A Pfizer manufacturing facility in Perths south-east slated for closure could have a new life manufacturing mRNA vaccines, including COVID jabs.

The Bentley facility, adjacent to Curtin University, currently manufactures intravenous medicines but in October last year the pharmaceutical giant announced it would cease operations there by 2023 and completely exit by 2024, putting 470 jobs at risk.

Australia will develop the capacity to make vaccines like the Pfizer mRNA shot. Credit:Getty

Asked whether the federal government had been approached to use the facility to manufacture mRNA vaccines Industry, Science and Technology Minister Christian Porter said it had been nominated as a potential site by a number of people.

Pfizer was not behind the proposal but Mr Porter did not reveal who made the nomination or whether it was made under an approach to market process launched in May, which called on the private sector to submit proposals to the government to establish mRNA vaccine manufacturing capabilities on Australian soil.
Brisbane City Council has not formally approached the Queensland Treasurer for a funding contribution for its $550 million green bridge program prior to or since its announcement in 2019, despite initially only planning to front two-thirds of the cost itself.

The revelation, and rejection of any future appeal by Cameron Dick, follow the announcement of a successful tenderer for the flagship $190 million bridge from Kangaroo Point to the citys Botanic Gardens last month.

A concept image of the now-updated Kangaroo Point green bridge design. Credit:Brisbane City Council

Lord mayor Adrian Schrinner announced the five-to-10-year vision just minutes after being voted in as the incoming council leader and days after his predecessor Graham Quirks retirement call in late March of 2019, to reduce congestion while boosting public and active transport use.

At the time, he said a third of the funding would need to come from the state and federal governments.
A sweeping assessment of the culture at private boys school St Kevins has found misogynistic language and sexist behaviour continues 18 months after the issue blew up in public.

The independent consultants review commissioned by St Kevins has been released by its first female principal, Deborah Barker. It found many female staff did not believe it had a culture that supports respect for women and other genders and that there was still a lot of hurt in the school community.

St Kevins principal Deborah Barker said it was important to be transparent about the issues the school had faced. Credit:Justin McManus

One-third of staff disagreed with the statement that St Kevins effectively supports a culture of respect for women and other genders. Female staff were more likely, at 38 per cent, to disagree or strongly disagree.

Students and staff said that misogynistic language and sexist behaviour still occurs at the school. Many acknowledged that such behaviour was limited to groups of individuals and that it most often occurred out of ignorance rather than malice, the report said. Yet it is still clearly an issue.
A parent of a student at Ballarat Clarendon College has also tested positive to COVID-19, forcing the entire school community of almost 2000 students and staff into isolation. It is the third school west of Melbourne to be linked with the states current outbreak. Two Multiplex constructions sites in Melbournes CBD were also closed down on Friday after an engineer who had attended both locations tested positive for the virus. It is not known if any of these three infections are new or previously announced cases.

COVID-19 response commander Jeroen Weimar also said one of Fridays fresh cases is a household contact of the COVID-19 positive teacher from Barwon Heads who attended an MCG football match with a resident from the Ariele Apartments who was infected. All the cases at Bacchus Marsh Grammar are colleagues of the Barwon Heads teacher. Young & Jacksons. Credit:Penny Stephens There are now a total of four cases associated with the MCG event, including the latest case in a man in 20s from Point Cook who works at the Sanctuary Lakes Hotel. The MCG cases reported on Thursday included a 10-year-old child, a man in his 20s from Montmorency and the Trinity Grammar teacher. There were also two fresh cases of men, both in their thirties, associated with the Young & Jackson pub in the CBD. Mr Weimar said one of those lives on a naval base, a member of the HMAS Cerberus on the Mornington Peninsula, south-east of Melbourne.

Both cases were unknown to each other and did not know the index case. He also said the new cases identified at the MCG did not know each other, did not sit together, did not know the index case [a man in his 60s from the Ariele apartment complex] or his friend. We are back in the world of fleeting transmission occurring, he said. One case was also recorded in hotel quarantine on Friday.

Loading The new cases came as Victoria entered a fifth lockdown that restricts residents to a five-kilometre bubble around their homes. Victorians now have five reasons to leave home  to get food or essential supplies, for two hours of exercise and for caregiving, authorised work, or to get vaccinated. There were 33,129 COVID-19 test results processed in the 24 hours to midnight on Thursday, and more than 17,188 people received their vaccine doses from state authorities Exposure site list swells

There were over 30 exposure sites added on Friday, including about a dozen Phillip Island locations. There are now over 150 exposure sites, 1500 close contacts and 5000 secondary contacts in Victoria. Other sites in Richmond, Hawthorn and Essendon were also added the list on Friday. Queensland shuts border to Victoria

Queensland will shut its border to Victoria from Saturday, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced. Anyone entering Queensland from Victoria after 1am on Saturday will go into two weeks of hotel quarantine. Peak hour at Flinders Street station on the first day of lockdown. Credit:Penny Stephens Ms Palaszczuk said on Friday morning the situation was moving rapidly, and she wished Victoria the best. I just think that the clear message to Queenslanders is definitely do not go to NSW and do not go to Victoria during this period of time, she said.

Other states and territories were quick to shut their borders on Thursday: Tasmania shut its border entirely, while South Australia and the Northern Territory will enforce 14 days of quarantine for all visitors from Greater Melbourne and Geelong. Lockdown may be lifted earlier in regional Victoria On Friday, Mr Andrews also raised the prospect that regional Victorians might get an earlier exit from the states five-day lockdown. It may not be possible. If I do not get advised that it is safe then I wont do it, he said. Business support package announced

A deal was struck on Thursday night between the federal and Victorian governments on financial support for the latest lockdown. The state government will provide $3000 and $2000 payments to 90,000 businesses who are again being hit by lockdown. Mr Andrews said the state government would pick up the tab for support in areas outside the federally declared hotspots. People and businesses in hotspot areas - which includes greater Melbourne, Geelong, and the Surf Coast - will receive assistance from the federal government under the same rules as the NSW scheme announced by the prime minister earlier this week. The state would also make available a $200 million business support package.
The states two new cases  an adult and a child who sat separately at the MCG during Saturdays match between Carlton and Geelong  are on top of the 10 new cases officially recorded on Thursday but reported throughout the day on Wednesday. COVID-19 response commander Jeroen Weimar said the two fresh cases were not known to each other or the other two previously confirmed cases at the MCG. Mr Weimar said they were sitting in very different parts of the ground and that the MCG was now the focus of the states contact tracers. Both these cases put us in a serious situation. We need to establish whether there are any other people who were at the MCG  thats a critical bit of information we need to get to today.

Loading If you are getting those tier-1, tier-2 text messages and you havent got tested, we need you to come and do that now. Whatever youre doing at the moment, stop doing it. Please come and get tested so we can get that information and get you safe and secure. Mr Weimar also noted that one of the new MCG cases was linked to two gyms in Melbournes west that were added to the official list of exposure sites on Wednesday morning. Despite concerns about further transmission at the MCG, Mr Weimar lauded the speed of the states health team.

[In] the last 72 hours weve burned through seven rings [of contract tracing] exceptionally quickly. This is probably the fastest response weve ever seen to an outbreak moving more quickly than weve ever seen here in Victoria, or I suspect anywhere else in Australia. Meanwhile, it has emerged that a man is his 30s who contracted the virus at a Coles in Craigieburn was actually an acquaintance of a positive case who had recently returned from Sydney. Officials revealed on Wednesday that the man tested positive after visiting the supermarket in Melbournes north at the same time as a man who lives in the City of Hume who was infectious.

Were confident with that particular exposure site that ... theyve spent a bit of time together to achieve that transmission, Mr Weimar said. Victorias latest coronavirus outbreaks, which now take in a total 16 cases including at least two children, are both offshoots of Sydneys Delta clusters: three Sydney removalists who breached their permit conditions and a family who returned from Sydney and were supposed to be isolating at home. Parents and carers at St Patricks Primary in Murrumbeena were asked to collect their children on Thursday morning after a student tested positive to the virus. All grade 4 students at the Catholic school in Melbournes south-east were ordered to go directly to a testing station before heading home and isolating until further notice. Students in other year levels have been encouraged to get tested. St Patricks Primary in Murrumbeena has been closed after a positive case attended the school. Credit:Joe Armao

A primary school in the border town of Wodonga also shut its doors on Monday and sent all children and staff home after two students attended a tier-one exposure site on the weekend. The two students at St Monicas have not tested positive to the virus, however the school has been closed as a precaution. Principal Jacqui Partington wrote to the school community earlier today, notifying them of an immediate shutdown and directing all students and anyone who has been on site to isolate immediately until further notice. We will remain shut down until we know for certain that it is safe to return to site, Ms Partington wrote. St Monicas is the fourth Victorian school to close in the past 24 hours, following the closure of St Patricks Primary in Murrumbeena, Bacchus Marsh Grammar and Barwon Heads Primary.

Many schools also told their students to take their things home as the school bell rang on Thursday afternoon in anticipation of a return to remote learning. Tina King, the acting president of the Australian Principals Federation, said schools were preparing for an imminent announcement. Ive spoken to a few secondary principals, they are telling their kids, take your stuff home tonight just in case, she said. Ms King said schools had plenty of practice in making a swift transition to remote learning and could potentially do so tomorrow.

Weve learnt how quickly we can do that transition, she said.

The list of high-risk exposure sites now includes 80 exposure sites, including public transport routes, a CBD pub, the MCG, Highpoint Shopping Centre and DFO University Hill in Bundoora. The mens toilet at Oakleigh shopping centre was added as a tier-1 location on Thursday afternoon. Western Australia on Wednesday enforced new border restrictions on visitors from Victoria, who must isolate for 14 days upon entering the state, while South Australia also tightened restrictions for Victorians, requiring them to undertake a COVID-19 test within 24 hours of arriving and not enter high-risk settings such as aged care for 14 days after arriving. Four of the cases announced on Wednesday were residents of the Ariele Apartments complex at Maribyrnong in Melbournes north-west. The parents of one of those residents, a man in his 60s, also tested positive, making cases five and six. The seventh reported case was the man in his 30s who visited the Coles in Craigieburn Central.

Case eight was a teacher from Bacchus Marsh Grammar who watched the Carlton versus Geelong AFL match at the MCG on Saturday with a friend who lives in the Ariele Apartments. Two of his family members have also tested positive, becoming cases nine and 10. Both Bacchus Marsh Grammar and Barwon Heads Primary School remain closed today after a positive case visited each school. Mr Weimar said 315 members of staff at Bacchus Marsh Grammar were in isolation as primary close contacts, and 3000 students at the school were in isolation as secondary close contacts. He said 49 staff and 527 students at Barwon Heads Primary had been identified as either primary or secondary close contacts.

While masks are now mandated indoors across the state, plenty of Victorians are masking up outside too. Credit:Joe Armao Weve got local testing set up ... the school community has been fantastic, Mr Weimar said. I know its such a distressing and complex time to be dealing with these outbreaks. We are working of course to get the primary close contacts tested, and as we have that information in the next day or so, [thats] going to allow us to get a more informed position on how we deal with the schools going forward. Cars queuing at a COVID-19 testing site in Craigieburn on Thursday. Credit:Justin McManus

Victorian restrictions expected to be tightened The Victorian Department of Health announced late on Wednesday evening that mask-wearing rules would be reintroduced from 11.59pm on Wednesday. Masks must now be worn in all indoor areas, including in all workplaces and secondary schools. Additional restrictions for Victoria are expected to be announced at a press conference later on Thursday afternoon. Loading

Some experts have called for a return to work-from-home rules, while other restrictions announced on Thursday could include indoor crowd limits and restrictions on the number of visitors permitted in homes. Monash University Associate Professor James Trauer told Sevens Sunrise on Thursday morning a lockdown for Victoria seems likely. We have seen increasing cases over the last few days, more exposure sites every day and we know that if we go early with lockdowns, the earlier we go, the shorter they need to be, he said. We need to get on top of this and we still dont really understand the scale of the number of cases that have been created at the moment. I would really support an early lockdown.

Experts watching Maribyrnong apartment complex infections closely Dr Finn Romanes, who runs the Western Public Health Unit responsible for contact tracing in Melbournes western suburbs, said there were 153 close contacts in quarantine at the Ariele Apartments: 121 residents and 32 visitors. While the data was still being analysed by public health teams, Dr Romanes told ABC Radio Melbourne it looked like the period between infections was dropping. Clearly, things are moving very fast... so what previously we saw around about three days between each circle of cases developing  one group of people would potentially infect another and at about three days later, you would see these cycles or generations of cases, he said. Loading

Here within this outbreak since the exposures on the eighth and then the cases first coming to light on Sunday, weve got, its down to about two days, so its moving every couple of days, were seeing another ring of cases developed. So its absolutely crucial that the people take a series of steps now... but even double down on those steps to move ahead of that and get as fast as we can. The priority at any exposure site was to account for all the residents on the day or days of concern, but also to make sure everyone they dealt with received COVID first aid, Dr Romanes said. Its reaching out to them, making sure theyre in isolation and getting tested and finding out their social circumstances.
Scott Morrison has made three changes within a week to federal support for Australians in lockdown and cannot be sure his latest boost is enough.

The virus is moving so fast that the scale of the lockdowns will be difficult to predict when the Prime Minister talks to state premiers and territory chief ministers on Friday.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced changes to the COVID-19 disaster payments. Credit:Jessica Hromas

The latest offer means that workers who lose hours will be paid for the first week of a lockdown, although they can apply for the cash when the restrictions run for seven days.

This is more generous than the earlier version of the COVID-19 disaster payment, which went to people for the second week of lockdown.
Three Sydney removalists who sparked an outbreak of COVID-19 across Melbourne have been referred to police as some residents of the locked-down apartment block they visited called for them to be named and shamed for not wearing masks while working.

COVID-19 response commander Jeroen Weimar vowed the wheels of justice will get them, as contact tracers in three states struggle to get straight and timely information from the trio, who drove from Sydney last Thursday and made two stops in Melbourne before heading to South Australia.

COVID-19 response commander Jeroen Weimar on Wednesday. Credit:Justin McManus

New exposure sites were revealed by South Australian and NSW authorities late on Wednesday and early on Thursday, days after the removalists were first interviewed by authorities.

The men stopped at a petrol station in Tailem Bend, in South Australia, on their way to Adelaide last Friday morning, then passed through the Murray River town again on the way back to NSW after being notified one of them was a close contact of a confirmed COVID-19 case.
NRL players were on Thursday night fuming after the Queensland government backflipped on a promise to bring their families to Queensland on Saturday.

The Herald has obtained the letter sent by NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo to the players on Thursday night, informing them that plans to bring their families into the state had been postponed.

Wests Tigers player Adam Doueihi departs Sydney on Wednesday. Credit:Brook Mitchell

Almost 480 players and staff boarded chartered flights on Wednesday on the proviso they would be reunited with their families. Thursday nights about-face has upset the players and their families.

The Herald understands the Queensland government has been criticised by the public for providing the players families preferential treatment.
Netflix, marking its first big move beyond TV shows and films, is planning an expansion into video games and has hired a former Electronic Arts and Facebook executive to lead the effort.

Mike Verdu will join Netflix as vice president of game development, reporting to Chief Operating Officer Greg Peters, the company said on Wednesday. Verdu was previously Facebooks vice president in charge of working with developers to bring games and other content to Oculus virtual-reality headsets.

Netflix wants to expand into video games. Credit:Chris Ratcliffe

The idea is to offer video games on Netflixs streaming platform within the next year, according to a person familiar with the situation. The games will appear alongside current fare as a new programming genre -- similar to what Netflix did with documentaries or stand-up specials. The company doesnt currently plan to charge extra for the content, said the person, who asked not to be identified because the deliberations are private.

Netflix shares gained as much as 2.1 per cent to $US559.53 in late trading on Wall Street after Bloomberg reported the news. The stock had been up 1.3 per cent this year through Wednesdays close.
The Hague: Peter de Vries, the renowned Dutch crime reporter shot last week in a brazen attack in Amsterdam, has died, Dutch media reported on Thursday, citing a statement from his family.

Peter fought to the end, but was unable to win the battle, RTL, the Dutch network de Vries regularly worked for, cited the family statement as saying.

Peter de Vries was one of the best known crime reporters in the Netherlands. Credit:AP

De Vries, 64, rose rapidly from a young cub reporter to become the Netherlands best-known journalist. He was a pillar of support for families of slain or missing children, a campaigner against injustice and a thorn in the side of gangsters in the Dutch capitals increasingly violent underworld.

The family statement said he died surrounded by loved ones and requested privacy for his family and partner to process his death in peace.
The European Union has unveiled a sweeping plan to slash its carbon emissions by 55 per cent before 2030, potentially reshaping the global trading order by imposing border tariffs on nations  like Australia  that do not have some form of carbon price.

By acting now we can do things another way... and choose a better, healthier and more prosperous way for the future, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Wednesday of the plan.

The European plan would impose tariffs on emissions-heavy imports. Credit:PA

Along with the border tariff, the EU proposes banning the sale of petrol and diesel powered cars within 20 years and planting billions of trees, hiking the tax on jet fuel and providing financial assistance to make homes more energy efficient.

Australia has already repeated its opposition to the proposed carbon tariff, which could commence as soon as 2023.
Among those killed were nine residents of an assisted living facility for people with disabilities and two firefighters involved in rescue efforts across the region. I grieve for those who have lost their lives in this disaster, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said during a visit to Washington, expressing shock at the scope of the flooding. Speaking alongside US President Joe Biden at the White House, Merkel said was thinking of all those who had lost loved ones or were still searching for them. I fear the full extent of this tragedy will only be seen in the coming days, she said. Biden likewise paid his condolences for the devastating loss of life and the destruction due to the flooding.

Our hearts go out to the families whove lost loved ones, he said. Firefighters take a break on a bench in a village in the district of Ahrweiler. Credit:DPA via AP Authorities said at least 30 people died in North Rhine-Westphalia state and 28 in neighbouring Rhineland-Palatinate to the south. Belgian media reported eight deaths in that country. Among the worst-hit German villages was Schuld, where several homes collapsed and dozens of people remained unaccounted for. Rescue operations were hampered by blocked roads and phone and internet outages across the Eifel, a volcanic region of rolling hills and small valleys. Some villages were reduced to rubble as old brick and timber houses couldnt withstand the sudden rush of water, often carrying trees and other debris as it gushed through narrow streets.

Another 15 people died in the Euskirchen region south of the city of Bonn, authorities said. People in the region were asked to evacuate their homes. In Belgium, two men died due to the torrential rain and a 15-year-old girl was missing after being swept away by an overflowing river. At least 10 houses collapsed in Pepinster after the river Vesdre flooded the eastern town and residents were evacuated from more than 1000 homes. Rescuers assess the damage in the flood-hit town of Schuld, Germany. Credit:AP Hundreds of soldiers and 2500 relief workers were helping police with rescue efforts in Germany. Tanks were deployed to clear roads of landslides and fallen trees and helicopters winched those stranded on rooftops to safety. Around 200,000 households lost power due to the floods.

In Ahrweiler, two wrecked cars were propped steeply against either side of the towns stone gate and locals used snow shovels and brooms to sweep mud from their homes and shops after the floodwaters receded. I was totally surprised. I had thought that water would come in here one day, but nothing like this, resident Michael Ahrend told Reuters. This isnt a war  its simply nature hitting out. Finally, we should start paying attention to it. The floods have caused Germanys worst mass loss of life in years. Flooding in 2002 killed 21 people in eastern Germany and more than 100 across the wider central European region. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pledged to help, and Pope Francis sent condolences, with his office saying the pontiff was praying for those injured and missing, as well as those who have lost their livelihoods. The full extent of the damage was still unclear, with many villages cut off by floods and landslides that made roads impassable. Many of the dead were only discovered after floodwaters receded.

A drone shot shows the devastation caused by the flooding of the Ahr River in Schuld. Credit:DPA via AP I am shocked by the catastrophe that so many people in the flood areas have to endure. My sympathy goes out to the families of the dead and missing, Merkel said. She promised financial aid for those affected. You can trust that all branches of government, federal, state and local, will join forces to do everything they can to save lives, avert danger and alleviate hardship, she said. Armin Laschet, the conservative candidate to succeed Merkel as chancellor and premier of the hard-hit state of North Rhine-Westphalia, blamed the extreme weather on global warming.

We will be faced with such events over and over, and that means we need to speed up climate protection measures, on European, federal and global levels, because climate change isnt confined to one state, he said during a visit to the area. Loading Climate and the environment are central themes in the election campaign, in which Laschet is going head-to-head with Social Democrat candidate Olaf Scholz and Annalena Baerbock of the Greens. Catastrophe The rain also caused severe disruption to public transport, with high-speed Thalys train services to Germany cancelled. Traffic on the river Meuse is also suspended as the major Belgian waterway threatened to breach its banks.

Downstream in the Netherlands, flooding rivers damaged many houses in the southern province of Limburg, where several care homes were evacuated. Loading In addition to the fatalities in the Euskirchen region, another nine people, including two firefighters, died elsewhere in North Rhine-Westphalia. It was catastrophic, said 65-year-old pensioner Edgar Gillessen, whose family home had been damaged. All these people living here, I know them all. I feel so sorry for them, theyve lost everything. A friend had a workshop over there, nothing standing, the bakery, the butcher, its all gone. Its scary. Unimaginable.

Further down the Rhine river, the heaviest rainfall ever measured over 24 hours caused flooding in cities including Cologne and Hagen, while in Leverkusen 400 people had to be evacuated from a hospital. In Wuppertal, known for its overhead railway, locals said their cellars had been flooded and power cut off. I cant even guess at how much the damage will be, said Karl-Heinz Sammann, owner of the Kitchen Club discotheque. Weather experts said that rain in the region over the past 24 hours had been unprecedented, as a near-stationary low-pressure weather system also caused sustained local downpours to the west in France, Belgium and the Netherlands. Rainwater draining into the Rhine, where shipping traffic was partly suspended, was expected to test flood defences along the river, including in Cologne, on the lower Rhine, and Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle merge.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Law Enforcement Council (hereafter: the Council) has, in its first 10 years of its existence, from 2010 to 2020, carried out 51 (review)inspections on various social themes. Recently, the 2020 State of Law Enforcement was published in which the Council, based on the States of the previous years, 17 relevant factors, and the findings of the Council throughout the years, looks back at developments within law enforcement in Sint Maarten. The relevant factors range from a legal framework, policy, facilities, and work processes to statistics, enforcement & compliance, personnel affairs, and capacity.

The State of 2020 describes the positive developments, but it also addresses the challenges facing the country Sint Maarten, the justice organizations, as well as the entire law enforcement over the past 10 years. The Council hopes that the described developments provide useful insight into what has been achieved under the circumstances, as well as awareness of the bottlenecks. The common thread in the narrative of the past 10 years is the dedicated efforts of all involved within the justice, and for which the Council expresses its admiration.

Lack of support

A positive aspect that has become stronger throughout the years, is the cooperation with the stakeholders. At the same time, there is still a lot of room for improvement. An issue that has been continuously raised is the lack of support of the local government. In almost every (review)inspection, the Council concluded that the necessary support is generally lacking. According to the Council, the consequences of political instability since 2010 with five Parliament elections, five governing programs, and nine (interim) Ministers of Justice, is evident in the justice field. The many changes - often characterized by transitional periods and new/unique visions, different priorities, many staff changes, and diverse approaches - have generally contributed to a stagnation in the development of the various justice services, and law enforcement as a whole. In the past year, the Council also repeatedly concluded and pointed out that the necessary preconditions for a proper execution of tasks by the justice organizations are too often lacking.

Vulnerability of law enforcement

In its State of 2016, the Council analyzed its inspections and found that most of the recommendations can be traced back to 17 factors that are important for the proper functioning of the organizations and for the entire justice chain. The Council concluded that the functioning of law enforcement was mostly poor, largely due to the lack of means, capacity, and facilities. The conclusions of the Council over the period of 2010-2016, were unfortunately also valid in 2017 at which time an increase of a lack of means was also noted. Hurricane Irma which hit Sint Maarten in September 2017 and caused a lot of damage, revealed the vulnerability of enforcement, a fact the Council had already pointed out in previous years. Sint Maarten became a disaster area in one swoop and justice organizations were confronted with extreme situations in order to keep public order and safety. Despite not being prepared, the organizations were still able to maintain public order by improvising, using very scarce resources, and cooperating with local and Kingdom partners. Taken more broadly, it must be concluded that Country St. Maarten was absolutely not prepared: the necessary infrastructure, disaster and relief coordination were far from optimal.

This is why the Council in 2017, indicated that St. Maarten, both before and after becoming a country, was unable to safeguard law enforcement on its own, given the absence of full government attention, and the lack of sufficient means and policymaking.

Important topics

In its State of 2020, the Council zooms in on specific and very important topics such as the prison, victim support, the Miss Lalie Center (MLC), human trafficking and human smuggling, drug crime, and domestic violence. Based on its review reports on the prison, the Council concluded in 2018, that the prison in its current state was completely unsuitable both in terms of humane detention and as a workplace. Throughout the years, the Council advocated that from both a national (Country Sint Maarten) and a broader Kingdom point of view, the prison must be made to comply with the (inter) national laws and regulations and standards as soon as possible. The Council anticipated an active role (as much possible) for the Ministry of Justice (also specifically for the prison), Country Sint Maarten and the Kingdom.

In 2020, human rights remained at risk, but the Sint Maarten Government made a concrete commitment to the construction of a new prison and earmarked funds for this purpose. In collaboration with the Netherlands, the Minister of Justice is making a concrete commitment in 2020 to the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) to make this a reality.

In various reports, the Council dedicated attention to (the lack of) structural victim support and the problematic intake of victims. The Council concluded after three (review)inspections (2012, 2016 and 2019) that there was still no provision for victim support. The initiatives and plans of the past years have not led to any form of structural assistance for victims to date. There has been a (systematic) lack of follow-up to the recommendations on this topic. One of the Minister of Justices priorities for 2020 was domestic violence. In this context, plans have once again been drafted to establish (an office for) victim support. The Council reiterates the importance of having victim support on St. Maarten and the consequences its absence will have on confidence in law enforcement.

The arrival of the juvenile rehabilitation center MLC in 2013, specifically for boys aged 12 to 18, can be described as a milestone for Sint Maarten. From September 2017 to 2018, the Council had serious concerns about the MLC because of its closure during that period. With the reopening of the MLC mid-2019, an important step was taken to - once more - send the right message to the youth. The lack of educational programs at the MLC in 2020 was of particular concern. Although plans are in place, the Council is deeply troubled about this situation and urges that a solution is found.

The Council conducted inspections in the countries (Curacao and Sint Maarten, plus the Caribbean Netherlands) related to the topic of human trafficking and human smuggling and specifically reviewed the extent to which the approach to human trafficking and human smuggling is shaped within the Kingdom and whether it contributes to preventing and combating these crimes. Based on the findings of the inspection, the Council concluded that there was room for improvement in international and interregional cooperation to prevent and combat human trafficking and human smuggling. In the Councils opinion, great strides can be made through strengthening international and interregional cooperation.

The Council in 2020 conducted inspections related to drug crimes and looked at the extent to which the approach to dealing with drug crimes and drug-related problems was shaped in and between the countries within the Kingdom and how said approach contributes to combating and preventing these activities. The Council noted that the approach is focused on preventing international drug trafficking at the border. The Council noticed a positive development in terms of the strengthening of border control on Sint Maarten where organizations with a border control function became increasingly professional and pursued cooperation. The Council also detected a downward spiral in which drug use and socioeconomic and psychosocial problems perpetuate each other. The Council considered the lack of a prevention policy from the Sint Maarten Government unacceptable. Furthermore, addiction care should be of high quality and accessible to everyone.

In its report about domestic violence of June 2020, the Council concluded that the policy, protocols, criteria, and procedures needed to properly address domestic violence have not yet been finalized and/or are absent. The implementation of tasks and procedures in practice also needs improvement e.g., in the reporting and referral process. The Council recognizes the limitations faced by each organization, but the Council believes that the approach to domestic violence can be improved by organizations if (improved) knowledge about the various available interventions are available and are better coordinated. To encourage a more coordinated approach, a common goal, vision, and consistency, an inter-ministerial policy is urgently needed. In all of its reports, the Council made a number of recommendations to the Minister of Justice to improve the subject matter that was inspected. In 2020, the Council started a general review on Sint Maarten with regard to the status of all recommendations from the reports of 2012 to 2018. Given a large number of reports, the review is carried out in sub-inspections. The Council repeatedly pointed out in the past years that the reports are not presented to Parliament as prescribed by law. It is not known to the Council whether Parliament has requested such. The Council previously outlined the responsibilities of each party and, specifically the framing, monitoring, and budgeting role of Parliament. Given that constant involvement is a prerequisite for the development and preservation of law enforcement, the Council re-emphasizes the importance in the 2020 State.

Cooperation

Sint Maarten  and more specifically law enforcement  from 2010 up to mid-2017 was about the development of a new country with predominantly new organizations and all that this entailed. From the third quarter of 2017 up to today, the focus has been on reconstruction, and it has become increasingly apparent that more investments are being made regarding cooperation. The vulnerability of law enforcement became visible again in 2020. The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic not only showed discrepancies between the justice organizations but again exposed the vulnerability of law enforcement and how dependent Sint Maarten is on this same law enforcement to secure general safety. It became clear again during the pandemic that the solution  partly in view of the dire financial situation  lies in the intensive cooperation both within and between the countries.

The Council considers it positive that since 2017 more efforts to cooperate are being made, also on a ministerial level. The level of assistance, in particular for the police, the prison, and the National Detectives Agency, the associated positive developments and also the consequences that are directly evident when assistance ends, demonstrate once more the necessity of continued collaboration to be able to independently perform the autonomous tasks. The Councils appeal issued to the government in its State of 2017 to give law enforcement the attention it needs, and as such to put cooperation within the Kingdom first, was repeated in subsequent years. In this State, we repeat this appeal.

According to the Council, more can be gained in terms of cooperation between the countries of the Kingdom, by making more use of the Charter. Joining forces between the countries could promote the functioning of the Kingdom. Opportunities for consultation under Article 37 of the Charter could be better utilized, arriving at cooperation agreements on an equal basis under Article 38 of the Charter. The idea that the chain is as strong as its weakest link applies mutatis mutandis to the Kingdom. When one country fails, the Kingdom also fails. A clear example of this is the prison system. It is not the individual countries but the Kingdom, as a whole, that bears international responsibility for compliance with international standards.

Future challenges

The Council notes in its closing remarks: St. Maarten, in the past 10 years, both by choice (constitutional changes) and through disaster (hurricanes and pandemic) has been mainly dominated by change, development, recovery, and reconstruction. In this regard, it can be noted that society is constantly (more) subject to change and thus marked not only by improvements but also by ever-increasing complexity, problems, flexibility, and interdependence. This, more than ever, demands an integrated approach and requires strong organizations that can contribute effectively to law enforcement not just on their own but especially as part of the chain.

In the Council's opinion, the aforementioned is a good illustration of the fact that, given the complexity with which law enforcement is faced, cooperation is the key. In its State of 2020, which looks back at 10 years of law enforcement, the Council expresses the hope that lessons have been learned from the past 10 years and that all parties involved will (continue to) use this acquired experience for the benefit of law enforcement.

The State of 2020 report and the other publications of the Council can be found on the website www.raadrechtshandaving.com of http://rrh-sxm.org.
On Friday, July 2nd, the Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance (DCNA) hosted its first Big Live Nature Quiz for adults on Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, St. Eustatius, and St. Maarten. A total of 39 teams/100+ team members consisting of 1-4 players participated in the online, live, and interactive quiz. After many exciting and thrilling nature question rounds, a team on Bonaire won. Second place went to a team on Aruba and third place to another team on Bonaire.

The online Big Live Nature Quiz is created to educate citizens about nature in a fun interactive way, to instill pride in the islands nature, encourage eco-friendly practices, support the parks conservation projects, and connect people throughout the Dutch Caribbean.

Yearly Free Quiz for Adults and Kids

The goal is to make this a yearly event for both adults and kids. In 2020, the first edition for kids was launched. For 2021, the kids edition is currently planned for the beginning of October. Stay tuned for your next chance to learn more about the nature of the Dutch Caribbean.

Live and Interactive Quiz

Teams could participate in two ways. Teams were invited to play from home/online with friends and family or join at one of the broadcast locations.

The Quiz was online and live. Therefore, all teams from the Dutch Caribbean islands could participate at the same time as well as interact with each other and the host of the program.

Broadcast locations included Hillside on Bonaire, Long Haul on Saba, and Dinghy Dock Sailors Bar on St. Maarten. A big thank you to these establishments along with STINAPA Bonaire, CARMABI on Curacao, Aruba National Park Foundation, Saba Conservation Foundation (SCF), STENAPA on St Eustatius, and Nature Foundation Sint Maarten (NFSXM) for their support with this event.

Theme: Dutch Caribbean animals

The BLNQ consisted of 35 trivia questions with the following categories: Marine Animals, Terrestrial Animals, Sounds in Nature, Special Island Animals, and People and Nature. There was a brief break in the middle to grab some food and drinks and power up for the second half.

Winners

During the Live and Interactive Quiz teams could follow their scores. After a competitive five rounds, winners were announced. First place with a score of 293 went to the Jonkers from Bonaire. They will receive a sailing/snorkeling around their beautiful island. Second and third place went to Minis Butlers (score of 259) from Aruba and Gwen & Dunc (score of 254) from Bonaire respectively. They will receive hats and t-shirts with the Big Live Nature Quiz logo. Congratulations to all!

I loved the quiz! I especially liked the Sounds in Nature category because it was different from any other trivia category that Ive ever played. Well done! BLNQ Participant from Long Haul on Saba

Dont Miss the next Big Live Nature Quiz

Check out DCNAs Facebook (Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance), Instagram (DCNAnature), or BigLiveNatureQuiz.org for more information and photos of the events. If you have any questions, send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call +599-717-5010.

The Big Live Nature Quiz is generously funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality (LNV), and DCNAs activities are supported by the Dutch Postcode Lottery.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The new World Bank Country Director for the Caribbean, Lilia Burunciuc, has concluded a four-day visit to Sint Maarten. This was her first visit to the region since her appointment on July 1, 2021, Ms. Burunciuc met Prime Minister Silveria Jacobs, Sint Maartens Council of Ministers, the National Recovery Program Bureau, and other partners. She chaired a meeting of the Steering Committee for the Sint Maarten Recovery, Reconstruction, and Resilience Trust Fund. The Trust Fund is financed by the Government of the Netherlands. She also visited a number of projects financed by the Trust Fund.

I am pleased to see firsthand the progress that has been made under the Sint Maarten Trust Fund Program, said Lilia Burunciuc, World Bank Country Director for the Caribbean. I would like to express to the people of Sint Maarten, the Government of Sint Maarten, and all Trust Fund stakeholders, the World Banks continued commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of these critical projects for the reconstruction and resilience of Sint Maarten.

During her four-day visit, Ms. Burunciuc highlighted the significant progress on the ten projects being financed by the Trust Fund, despite the COVID-19 crisis. Ms. Burunciuc toured the Sint Maarten Medical Center, where the new hospital is under construction under the Hospital Resiliency and Preparedness Project. She also witnessed repairs to schools, homes, and shelters financed by the Emergency Recovery Project I, as well as ongoing large-scale shipwreck salvaging activities that will facilitate safer navigation under the Emergency Debris Management Project.

She attended the inauguration of a satellite library and visited a playground financed by the Resources for Community Resilience Project, which provides resources to NGOs and community-based organizations for community projects. She also met with two of the fifty owners of small and medium enterprises who have received support under the ongoing Enterprise Support Project. The Country Director rounded off her trip with a tour of the Princess Juliana International Airport, which will soon benefit from major reconstruction. Work at the airport is expected to start later this year.

Ms. Burunciuc emphasized the importance of continued and close collaboration with the Government of Sint Maarten, the Prime Minister, the Council of Ministers, Steering Committee members, the Representative of the Government of the Netherlands in Sint Maarten, and a variety of other civil society and private sector partners. Ms. Burunciuc underlined her intention to continue the strong relationships between the World Bank and Sint Maarten during her tenure and to achieve concrete, effective and visible results for the people of Sint Maarten.

The Sint Maarten Recovery, Reconstruction and Resilience Trust is financed by the Government of the Netherlands, managed by The World Bank, and implemented by Sint Maartens National Recovery Program Bureau.
Somerset, KY (42501)

Today

Some sun this morning with increasing clouds this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 86F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 63F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
Somerset, KY (42501)

Today

Some sun this morning with increasing clouds this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 86F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 63F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
Enterprise, AL (36331)

Today

Thunderstorms likely. High 83F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Variably cloudy with scattered thunderstorms. Low 71F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
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This project is a collaboration of members of the Iowa Newspaper Association and includes reporting from 51 newspaper reporters from 30 newspapers across the state. Readers who have experienced difficulty obtaining police video in Iowa can contact reporters at PoliceVideoTips@inanews.co m. Public records requests and data storage/visualization was supported by a grant from the Fund for Investigative Journalism.
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spotlight

Assisted living resets as COVID restrictions phase out

Carriage House resident Esther Zuehlsdorf kept her head high through the COVID-19 pandemic and is feeling better now that she can see her daughter in person. (Carson Hughes/southernminn.com)

Early last year, Faribault couple Julie and Del Spronk had high hopes for their latest assisted living venture in Le Center.

After purchasing the property in 2019, the building was transformed into Carriage House: a new assisted living home with a beauty shop, common room with a wall-to-wall fireplace, a dining room and a new cement patio. Carriage Houses grand debut couldnt have come at a worse time: the facility finally opened its doors on Feb. 17, 2020.

Just one month later, the COVID-19 pandemic was sweeping across the nation and Minnesota declared a state of emergency restricting the operations of various businesses especially for long-term care facilities. In-person visitations were banned and long-term care facilities were subject to strict guidelines due to the vulnerability of the population and potential for disease spread. Approximately 31% of COVID-related deaths in the US have been linked to long-term care facilities.

To say the pandemic was bad for business is an understatement. According to Argentum, a national trade organization for senior living communities, providers have suffered $22.5 billion in uncompensated financial losses as of March 2021. In the state of Minnesota, which ranks sixth in the nation in number of senior living providers, the industry has lost $1.38 billion.

All assisted living facilities, nursing homes, adult foster care alike have suffered greatly in this pandemic, said Carriage House co-owner Julie Spronk. People hunkered down and stayed in their home and were afraid to go anywhere, because the COVID infectious rate is so high in assisted livings and nursing homes, and because they would be isolated to their rooms once they got there and family wouldnt be able to make in-person visits to see them.

Social distancing measures also provided families with new opportunities to care for their senior loved ones, said Spronk. Those who could work from home had more time to spend with their loved ones and less of a need for assisted living.

Carriage House residents eat out at the Home Plate diner in Le Center. These excursions became possible as COVID-19 restrictions have phased out. (Photo courtesy of Carriage House)

For a year, business at Carriage House ground to a halt. Staff cared for the residents that currently occupied the facility, but new customers were few and far between. Carriage House was also set back by the short time the facility had to advertise before the pandemic

We didnt have an opportunity to establish ourselves, said Spronk. The normal PR that we would have done was put aside so we could deal with this pandemic.

As COVID restrictions wind down, Spronk said Carriage House is starting from square one and reintroducing themselves to the community.

We werent well established and now that the veil is lifted we are marketing, said Spronk. Having open houses, a commercial on TV selling ourselves to the community and surrounding communities.

Getting back to normal

As Carriage House looks to recover, so too are residents. Over the past year, assisted living residents were cloistered in their homes and unable to hug or touch their loved ones. Esther Zuehlsdorf, a resident of Carriage House, is known for easygoing attitude and willingness to take the good with the bad in stride. But even for her, it was tough to go without seeing her family.

I was sad that I couldnt see my daughter, said Zuehlsdorf. Thats the only family that I have here, but we talked over the phone and just made do.

In spite of the hardship brought by COVID-19, Zuehlsdorf kept up a positive attitude. She was well acquainted with living alone, but with the support of staff members Zuehlsdorf had people around who could cook for her and care for her and people she could give a hard time once in a while.

Im pretty well acquainted with everybody and I joke and whip them, said Zuehlsdorf. Im kind of an ornery person, I like to give them a bad time, torment them a little bit. But theyve been real helpful when I dont feel good and need special care.

Carriage House Senior Living in Le Center, owned by Julie and Del Spronk, of Faribault, struggled financially through the COVID-19 pandemic like many long term care facilities. (Carson Hughes/southernminn.com)

For others, the stress of isolation was harder to cope with. Along with the physical challenges of COVID-19 came mental challenges in assisted living facilities across the country. According to a September article in the AARP, lockdown measures were associated with increases in anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation, along with a 50% increased chance of developing dementia, 32% spike in strokes, and a nearly fourfold increased chance of death among heart failure patients.

Some residents were very good about it and understood we were protecting their best interests, said Spronk. We had residents that knew of the Spanish Flu and had come from the Depression and were tough as nails. We had some residents that were very bitter and very angry and felt like they were prisoners.

Throughout the pandemic, Spronk said Carriage House residents have had opportunities to socialize with one another, keep in contact with family through Zoom calls and get some fresh air on the Carriage House patio. As the COVID restrictions loosen with increasing vaccination rates and falling case numbers, staff have been able to take residents out for more activities, such as visiting the Home Plate diner for lunch.

Mood has improved for everyone, staff, residents and families, said Spronk. We have a spring fling last month for the family members and it was just a gathering of family members and residents. A lot of food and drink and fellowship. It had been a long winter for everybody.

Long term care facilities arent quite back to normal just yet. A check-in still requires a facemask and a temperature clearance and regulations continue to be in flux. But residents like Zuehlsdorf are relieved to see the worst behind them and are enjoying lifes simple pleasures.

Im OK with everything, said Zuehlsdorf. Whatever God puts out there for me, I take in stride. And Im a person that dont feel like you need to yell and holler, because that dont do any good.
Connecticut gained 3,500 jobs in June, marking its sixth-straight month of rising employment, according to preliminary data released Thursday by the state Department of Labor.

The state has now recovered about 65 percent of the 292,000 jobs lost in March and April 2020, during shutdowns sparked by the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. But the decrease last month of 600 private-sector positions, which offset the addition of 4,100 government jobs, shows that Connecticuts economy still faces headwinds.

Its encouraging that jobs are up overall, but whats a little troubling is that private-sector jobs were down by 600, Eric Gjede, vice president of government affairs for the Connecticut Business & Industry Association, said in an interview. It just demonstrates that we are in no way, shape or form completely out of the woods yet when it comes to recovery from the pandemic. We still have some challenges ahead of us.

Alongside the 0.2 percent increase in jobs, the states unemployment rate dropped from 8.1 percent in May to 7.9 percent last month.

As it does every month, the Labor Department also reported Thursday revisions in the previous months numbers. Last month, the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated the states May unemployment rate at 7.7 percent. The updated numbers showed, however, that the May jobless rate did not change from the April level of 8.1 percent. At the same time, the Labor Department revised the May jobs gain from 7,800 to 8,100.

The increased unemployment rate in May likely indicates that additional workers were entering the job market, according to Labor Department officials. Those who are not looking for work are not counted in jobless rates.

Last month, four of the states 10 major industries expanded their employment, while six saw declines.

In addition to the increase in public-sector employment, the other services industry gained 2,400 jobs, leisure and hospitality picked up 1,600 and professional and business services added 200.

Trade, transportation and utilities lost the most jobs in June, with a reduction of 1,400 positions. Construction and mining shed 1,000 jobs, and financial activities and manufacturing each lost 700. There were declines of 600 in education and health services and 400 in information.

Private-sector jobs are up 8,100 over two months as the uneven monthly pattern continues, even with some recent weakness, Patrick Flaherty, director of the Labor Departments Office of Research, said in a statement. Construction and retail trade have regained 70 percent or more of the jobs lost during the pandemic. The same is true for management of companies, accommodation and food services and private education which have added jobs in each of the past two months.

Dante Bartolomeo, interim labor commissioner, said the June numbers reflected the resilience of Connecticuts economy and workforce.

Job statistics Connecticut added a total of 3,500 jobs in June, but a number of sectors saw declines in employment. Government: +4,100 (month-over-month change in jobs) Other services: +2,400 Leisure and hospitality: +1,600 Professional and business services: +200 Trade, transportation and utilities: -1,400 Construction and mining: -1,000 Financial activities: -700 Manufacturing: -700 Education and health services: -600 Information: -400 Source: Connecticut Department of Labor See More Collapse

After reaching a high of 392,000 weekly unemployment filers in May 2020, we are now at 165,000 weekly filers, and those numbers are trending down, Bartolomeo said in a statement. We have a long way to go  in a normal year we have about 40,000 claimants filing each week  but the labor numbers, and the filing numbers are going in the right direction.

The declining unemployment claims in Connecticut align with a nationwide trend. On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Labor reported that jobless claims had dropped last week by 26,000 to 360,000  the lowest level since the start of the pandemic.

Connecticuts containment of COVID-19, including one of the highest vaccination rates in the country, has bolstered its economic recovery.

Republican legislators remain, however, deeply concerned about the states economy, which had recovered in January 2020 only 83 percent of the jobs lost in its 2008-2010 recession.

Young people in Connecticut are graduating to an unemployment pool of over 100,000 people, state Sen. Kevin Kelly, R-Stratford, the Senate minority leader, said last week. Connecticut is dead last in the nation in job growth and income growth.

But many major companies still believe in the state, with last month ranking as one of its biggest ever for corporate recruitment.

Tobacco giant Philip Morris International is relocating its headquarters to the state from Manhattan. Financial-technology firm iCapital Network is opening offices in Greenwich; manufacturer and technology-services provider ITT is moving its headquarters from White Plains, N.Y., to Stamford; and Tomo Networks, a new financial-technology firm focused on real estate, has established its headquarters in Stamford.

Those companies have cumulatively committed to bringing more than 550 jobs to Connecticut.

When were attracting new businesses, thats great news, Gjede said. We owe a lot to the governor holding his line and the emergence of a moderate group of folks in the legislature  both Republicans and Democrats  who have been doing the right things.

pschott@stamfordadvocate.com; twitter: @paulschott
CARLISLE, Pa. (AP)  The disinterred remains of nine Native American children who died more than a century ago while attending a government-run school in Pennsylvania were headed home to Rosebud Sioux tribal lands in South Dakota on Wednesday after a ceremony returning them to relatives.

The handoff at a graveyard on the grounds of the U.S. Army's Carlisle Barracks was part of the fourth set of transfers to take place since 2017. The remains of an Alaskan Aleut child were returned to her tribe earlier this summer.

We want our children home no matter how long it takes, said U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, who in June announced a nationwide investigation into the boarding schools that attempted to assimilate Indigenous children into white society.

Haaland, the first Native American to serve as a Cabinet secretary, said at the event that forced assimilation practices" stripped away the children's clothing, their language and their culture. She said the government aims to locate the schools and burial sites and identify the names and tribal affiliations of children from the boarding schools around the country.

Nearly a thousand unmarked graves have been discovered in recent months at former residential school sites for Indigenous children in Canada.

In Pennsylvania, the nine sets of remains inside small wooden coffins were carried past a phalanx of tribal members and well-wishers before being loaded into a vehicle trailer to be driven to Sioux City, Iowa. The children died between 1880 and 1910.

Ione Quigley, the tribes historic preservation officer, recounted how she attended the disinterment earlier this week and used red ochre to prepare the remains in a traditional way.

We got everything done as respectfully and honorably as possible, Quigley said.

Russell Eagle Bear, a Rosebud Sioux tribal council representative, said a lodge was being prepared for a Friday ceremony at a Missouri River landing near Sioux City where children boarded a steamboat for the journey to the government-run Carlisle Indian Industrial School.

The Carlisle school, founded by an Army officer, took drastic steps to separate Native American students from their culture, including cutting their braids, dressing them in military-style uniforms and punishing them for speaking their native languages. They were forced to adopt European names.

More than 10,000 Native American children were taught there and endured harsh conditions that sometimes led to death from such diseases as tuberculosis.

Eagle Bear said children from the tribe endured ridicule along the trip to Carlisle in 1879, three years after the Battle of the Little Bighorn.

Tribal officials said that when the remains arrive in South Dakota, some will be buried in a veterans cemetery and others are destined for family graveyards.

We're here today and we are going to take our children home, Eagle Bear said to about 100 attendees on Wednesday. We have a big homecoming on the other end.

Since August 2017, the Army has disinterred 22 remains of Native American children from the cemetery, including the 10 that occurred this year. In previous years, remains were turned over to the Northern Arapaho, Blackfeet, Oglala Sioux, Oneida, Omaha, Modoc and Iowa tribes.
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP)  The Navajo Nation on Wednesday reported 16 new COVID-19 cases and one more death.

The figures released by the Navajo Department of Health brought the total number of cases on the vast reservation to 31,132 since the pandemic began. The death toll now is at 1,362.
Ben Shapiro , is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of The Ben Shapiro Show, and editor-in-chief of DailyWire.com. He is the author of the New York Times bestsellers How To Destroy America In Three Easy Steps, The Right Side Of History, and Bullies.
Ogden jazz icon Joe McQueen may be gone, but his memory and legacy live on. One physical reminder of his life, McQueen's lifelong home at 3158 Grant Ave., has now become available for sale. The house received extensive remodeling, but as investor Richard Casperson has said, "Joe's energy is 


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MIDDLEFIELD TOWNSHIP [emdash] Rachel A. Byler, 5 days, of Middlefield Twp, was granted her angel wings Friday night, July 16, 2021 while being held in her mother's arms and surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Middlefield on Sunday, July 11, 2021. She was a member of the Old Orde
Published: 15 July 2021

Turnover in manufacturing grew by 11.7 per cent in May

According to Statistics Finland, working day adjusted turnover in industry (TOL BCD) increased in May by 11.7 per cent year-on-year. Turnover grew in nearly all main industries. The development was partly due to the exceptional situation caused by the coronavirus one year earlier. Among the main industries, turnover grew strongest in electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply, by 20.0 per cent from one year ago. Seasonally adjusted turnover in industry (TOL BCD) grew by 0.7 per cent in May compared with April.

Annual change in working day adjusted turnover in manufacturing (BCD), % (TOL 2008)

Turnover in the forest industry was 16.5 per cent higher in May than one year previously. Turnover grew by 11.3 per cent in the chemical industry and by 9.7 per cent in the textile, clothing and leather industry. The food industry grew by 8.8 per cent, the metal industry by 6.9 per cent and mining and quarrying by 2.7 per cent. Turnover decreased only in the electronic and electrical industry, by 6.7 per cent from twelve months earlier.

Annual change in working day adjusted turnover in manufacturing by industry, May 2021, % (TOL 2008)

Export turnover growing in nearly all main industries in May

Export turnover grew in almost all main industries in May. Export turnover grew most in the forest industry, by 18.7 per cent, and in the food industry, by 17.6 per cent. Export turnover grew in mining and quarrying by 13.3 per cent, in the textile, clothing and leather industry by 11.5 per cent, and in the metal industry by 9.3 per cent. Export turnover in the chemical industry was 5.5 per cent higher than one year previously. Export turnover decreased only in the electrical and electronics industry, by 8.2 per cent year-on-year.

Annual change in working day adjusted export turnover and domestic turnover in manufacturing by industry, May 2021, % (TOL 2008)

Domestic turnover increased in May in nearly all main industries. Most growth was recorded in the chemical industry, up by 20.9 per cent, and in the metal industry, up by 12.7 per cent. Domestic turnover grew in the forest industry by 12.4 per cent and in the electrical and electronics industry by 10.8 per cent from one year ago. Turnover in the textile, clothing and leather industry was 8.5 per cent higher and in the food industry 8.4 per higher than in the previous year. Domestic turnover declined only in mining and quarrying, by 3.7 per cent from a year earlier.

Trend series of turnover, export turnover and domestic turnover in manufacturing (BC), 1/2007 to 5/2021, % (TOL 2008)

The index of turnover in industry describes enterprises whose main industry is manufacturing. The calculation of the indices is based on the Tax Administrations self-assessed tax data which are supplemented with data obtained with Statistics Finlands sales inquiry. The monthly turnovers of manufacturing enterprises can vary considerably, especially in the metal industries. The variation is mainly due to invoicing practices. The final invoice for major machinery deliveries and projects may be recorded in the sales of one month, even if the delivery had required the work of several months or years.

The factors caused by the variation in the number of weekdays are taken into account in adjustment for working days. This means taking into consideration the lengths of months, different weekdays and holidays. In addition, seasonal variation is eliminated from seasonally adjusted series, on account of which it makes sense to compare observations of two successive months as well.

The data for the latest month are preliminary and are released at a delay of around six weeks. The data may become significantly revised particularly on more detailed industry levels in coming months. Revisions to the data may be particularly significant on the more accurate industry levels of export turnover and domestic turnover.

Source: Index of turnover in industry 2021, May, Statistics Finland

Inquiries: Maija Sappinen 029 551 3348, Aleksi Paavonen 029 551 3762, myynti.teollisuus@stat.fi

Head of Department in charge: Katri Kaaja

Publication in pdf-format (330.3 kB)

Updated 15.7.2021

Referencing instructions: Official Statistics of Finland (OSF): Index of turnover in industry [e-publication].

ISSN=1798-596X. May 2021. Helsinki: Statistics Finland [referred: 19.7.2021].

Access method: http://www.stat.fi/til/tlv/2021/05/tlv_2021_05_2021-07-15_tie_001_en.html
Thursday, 15 July 2021 21:02:54 (GMT+3) | Sao Paulo

Aceros Arequipa, one of Perus largest steelmakers, said this week it has acquired a Florida-based scrap company.

According to a document filing, Aceros Arequipa signed a purchase contract to buy the scrap assets of an undisclosed company, but according to media reports, the company reportedly purchased the former Grimmel Industries shredder in Palmetto, Florida.

Aceros Arequipa said it established two US-based companies, Aceros America Port Manatee LLC and Aceros America St. Pete LLC, through which it completed the acquisition of the Florida-based scrap company.

The company said the acquisition in Florida is an important step to the steelmakers verticalization strategy, which will also reinforce the supply of recycled steel to its Pisco mill.

Aceros Arequipa said the assets it bought include a 116,000 square meter yard, a fragmentation facility, as well as a metals magnetic separator, which will allow it to segregate ferrous material to export mainly to Asia.
The government wants to make money from the 5G auction and I don't believe it's the best approach, because it would be important to have good services at affordable prices, the president of the Competition Council, Bogdan Chiritoiu, said on Thursday, agerpres reports.

"The Romanian government, which has been different every year, has told us that it wants to hold a 5G auction. My advice was that the conditions are not met. Every year, the government wants to make money from the 5G auction and I don't think it the best approach. It would be important to have good services, as we had at 4G, at affordable prices. Not necessarily to bring a lot of money to the budget from spectrum taxes. My main objection, I believe shared by ANCOM, is that we did not have the preconditions ready to launch the 5G auction, so that the participating companies can make estimates, know what the situation is, be able to figure out if it makes sense to enter this market and on what terms. Or, these things are now changing. We are already in the process of having approved the legislation that creates a lever for the state, a filter that the state can apply to ensure the use of this technology in conditions that respect the security interests of the state. It is important for companies to know which partner they can work with, what kind of equipment they can use," Chiritoiu said at the "Digitalization of Romania" videoconference.

The President of the Competition authority highlighted the importance of approving the Telecommunications Code for the faster development of 5G networks and also said that there is a need for a clarification of the situation regarding the number of operators in the local market interested in entering the tender."Very important is the Telecommunications Code which, among other things, creates conditions for the faster development of 5G networks, faster obtaining of authorizations. It's going to be a lot of work because the 5G network is a lot denser than what we have right now. In order for these things that are necessary to be achieved, we need the approval in Parliament of this Code of Telecommunications. We also need to know what players we have in the market. Telekom's situation was quite unclear, now it's starting to clear up. Our expectation is that, in the immediate period following, the European Commission will approve the acquisition of the fixed part of Telekom by Orange. This will probably shed clarity in the market and let us know how many players we have in the market of 5G interests. The 5G auction is important so that we can maintain this good infrastructure that Romania has had in the last period, over which we can add all the services, the applications that the technology provides to us," the head of the Competition Council added.In mid-May, the chairman of the National Radiocommunication Society - Radiocom Board of Directors, Marian Murgulet, said that the chances for the organization of the 5G auction in Romania this year are zero, unless relevant steps happen in Parliament, by the end of June.On 11 June, President Klaus Iohannis signed the decree for the promulgation of the Law on the adoption of measures relating to information and communication infrastructures of national interest and the conditions for the implementation of 5G networks. On June 7, the Senate passed, as a decision-making body, the bill initiated by the Government.
Defense Ministry spokesman Constantin Spinu said that the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter that was doing a rehearsal flight today over Bucharest as part of a joint drill of the Romanian and the US Air Forces, reported a technical malfunction that forced it into an emergency landing.

"According to preliminary data there are no damages other than what can be seen - two light posts knocked over and two cars hit by the posts in the fall. The incident caused no victims, and its causes are to be determined by an investigation conducted jointly by the Romanian Air Force and the US military authorities that own the aircraft. The Romanian judicial authorities are at the site. During the day, the American side will issue a press release detailing the information known so far," Spinu said.

Asked if other Black Hawk helicopters in Romania have been grounded following this incident, Constantin Spinu said that at this moment he has "no information about the nature of this incident, or about the measures that will be taken by the American side.""There are no victims, the crew is in very good condition. The incident produced no other consequences, but Mr. Prosecutor will be able to tell you more. I do not know the course of events. The judicial investigation will definitely look at all these aspects," said the spokesman for the National Defense Ministry.
Former national leader of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) Liviu Dragnea was released from the Rahova Penitentiary on Thursday after serving more than two and a half years of a three-and-a-half-year sentence received in 2019 in the case of fictitious employment at the Teleorman child protection agency.

Dragnea said that the time he spent in prison was "torment" and "suffering," claiming that in Romania today there is "ferocious dictatorship."

"Two years of torment and suffering. Abuse, suffering and most of the people today have understood why I had to get here. When I left, Romania was a prosperous country, with high incomes earned by Romanians, a country where there was hope, there was a future. Unfortunately, today, it is ferocious dictatorship; freedom of expression is seriously affected, Romania's future is mortgaged with such debts," Dragnea said after leaving prison.The Giurgiu Court on Thursday approved a request for conditional release from prison submitted by Dragnea after serving more than two years of a sentence of three and a half years received in 2019 in the case of fake jobs.Bucharest District 5 Court Dragnea denied Dragnea's request but he filed an appeal that the Giurgiu Tribunal agreed to take up on Thursday.Initially, Dragnea's appeal was filed with the Bucharest Tribunal, which denied his request, but he managed to move the trial to Giurgiu on the grounds that judges in Bucharest cannot be impartial in considering his request because they had signed a petition to amend justice legislation when PSD was at rule.
The European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides, before her visit to Bucharest on Friday, said that Romania needs to double its vaccination efforts over the summer, given that only 30pct of the adult population has been completely vaccinated, according to a press release of the Representative Office of the European Commission in Romania.

"The EU has kept its word and distributed enough doses, around 500 million, to vaccinate 70pct of the EU's adult population. We will now work closely with our Member States to ensure that they achieve their targets in the territory. The more communicable Delta variant, already present in the EU and which we know will circulate widely this summer, poses a major risk to unvaccinated people. And considering that only 30pct of the adult population has been completely vaccinated, Romania must double its vaccination efforts over the summer. The message is clear: vaccination is and will be the most powerful weapon against the variants. I look forward to discussing how the EU can continue to support the national vaccination campaign in Romania," said Stella Kyriakides, quoted in the said press release, agerpres reports.

The same source mentions that during her visit to Romania, the European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety will meet the Minister of Health, Ioana Mihaila, and will pay a visit to the vaccination centre in Petresti.Discussions will focus on the EU Vaccine Strategy and the conduct of the national vaccination campaign in Romania, as well as on what the European Union should do next in terms of health, reads the press release.The Representative Office of the EC in Romania also states that the present actions are part of the Commission's ongoing efforts and the commitment of Commissioner Kyriakides to support the Member States' national vaccination campaigns against COVID-19.
The European Union needs to be further consolidated because the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic will not be the EU's last challenge, Romania's Foreign Minister Bogdan Aurescu said on Thursday.

"This pandemic will not be the EU's last challenge. For this very reason we need to further consolidate our Union and the Conference on the Future of Europe, launched on the May 9, represents a very good opportunity to involve the citizens in sharing their views, their perceptions, expectations and, why not, their solutions, on the future of the EU," said the head of the Romanian diplomacy, at a press conference in Bucharest that marked the beginning of the Slovenian Presidency of the EU Council.

"You can count on Romania's support to advance the EU agenda in a consensual and constructive approach, driven by the objective of further consolidating the European project," Aurescu told Slovenia's ambassador to Romania Lea Stancic.He underscored the need to increase the EU's strategic resilience, both internally and externally."Building on the lessons learned in the past year and a half, we need to increase our strategic resilience, both internally and externally. We need to have the capacity to activate instruments that are able to respond successfully to similar situations, while fully preserving the achievements of the European project, the rule of law and our democratic way of life. We need to consolidate our partnerships with like-minded actors, who share our values, and reduce our dependence on the ones who do not, those who challenge the rules-based international order," said Aurescu.According to him, the EU's commitment to enlargement must be reconfirmed, and the process needs to be credible. "We need to reconfirm our commitment for the EU enlargement and to ensure that this process is a credible one. In this respect, we support having an agreement as soon as possible on the Negotiating Frameworks with Albania and the Republic of North Macedonia, so that we could hold the first Accession Conferences with these candidates," the foreign minister said.For her part, Slovenia's ambassador to Romania Lea Stancic said resilience and the rule of law were among the priorities of her country's presidency of the EU Council.One of our main goals will be to work with all member states for a more resilient Europe that is better prepared for the challenges of the future, she said, adding that hopefully receptivity to crises will increase, especially those that go beyond member states' capabilities. The target, she said, is better preparedness, especially in the case of pandemics, where the lessons of COVID-19 will be used.Head of the European Commission's Representation in Romania Ramona Chiriac said that she relies on the support of the Slovenian presidency for the approval as soon as possible of as many National Recovery and Resilience Plans as possible."We welcome the European Commission's approval of the recovery and resilience plans of the first 12 member states. That is an important step and creates a basis for investment and reform in each national plan. We are counting on support from the Slovenian presidency for the approval of as many national recovery and resilience plans as possible and we look forward to the approval of the Romanian plan," Chiriac said.She also called for Romania's accession to the Schengen area."The European Commission has supported Romania's accession to Schengen since the EU Council adopted the conclusions of Romania's evaluation in 2011. Once again, we are calling on the EU Council and its Slovenian colleagues to approve lifting internal border controls in this member state," said Chiriac.
The Ministry of European Investment and Projects (MIPE) has worked together very well with the European Investment Bank (EIB) to outline the financial instruments included in Romania's National Recovery and Resilience plan (PNRR), said the MIPE head Cristian Ghinea, emphasising that it is very interested in these mechanisms continuing in operational programmes as well.

Ghinea met on Thursday, July 15, a a delegation of the Group of the European Investment Bank led by Christian Kettel-Thomsen, Vice President.

The main subject of the discussions was co-operation with the EIB Group for the programmes related to cohesion policy 2021 - 2027 and PNRR, as the memorandum of understanding that defines the framework for collaboration is nearing completion.At the meeting, details were discussed about Romania's funding needs in the context of the programmes that will start, including sector-specific issues, such as energy, transport, andtaxation.
The reform of the Police Academy is a fundamental pillar for the future of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MAI), said on Thursday Minister of Internal Affairs Lucian Bode.

"We have launched a comprehensive reform project of the Police Academy. We start from a strategic vision adapted to the current needs of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and developments in society, with emphasis on professionalism, institutional flexibility and increasing the quality of education. The recently introduced vocational master's degree, like many alternatives to vocational training, is a way of attracting highly qualified human resources into the public order system. We started the reform from the ground up, being firmly convinced that the reform of the Ministry of Internal Affairs itself would not be possible without going through this stage. The reform of the Police Academy is a fundamental pillar for the future of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, because this is where our entire system yields its power. If the nursery is compromised, then the health and solidity of the structures will be compromised," Lucian Bode said at the graduation ceremony of students in the 2021 Class of "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" Police Academy.

He added that the reform project is long-lasting, because the results will be seen in time, agerpres reports."It is important not to wander from this line of reform and to have zero tolerance for the violation of the law and of academic rigors," he said.
Romania's Defence Ministry (MApN) has voiced its regret for an incident on Thursday that involved an American helicopter forced into emergency landing at Charles de Gaulle Square in Bucharest City.

"We regret the incident on Thursday that involved a US Armed Forces helicopter, which was forced into emergency landing at Charles de Gaulle Square in Bucharest. The pilot managed to control the aircraft so that there were no casualties and the material damage was reduced," MApN wrote on its Facebook page.

The military helicopter participating along with other aircraft in a rehearsal for the events to be held on Aviation Day at the Monument of the Air Heroes in Aviatorilor Square."The safety of the citizens is very important to us and, therefore, measures have been taken to avoid the occurrence of such incidents in the future," said MApN.The flyover at the events that were to take place next week on Aviation Day and for the end of the Romanian military mission in Afghanistan is now cancelled by order of the defence minister."The flyover part at both events - on July 20, Romanian Aviation Day, and the ceremony at the Triumphal Arch on July 21 to mark the end of Romania's mission in Afghanistan - has been cancelled by order of the national defence minister, so the ceremonies will be held without aircraft flying over," MApN spokesman Constantin Spanu told AGERPRES on Thursday.
The Military Prosecutor's Office was notified on Thursday with respect to the incident in which a helicopter landed in Charles de Gaulle Square, following which a criminal case was opened, the spokesperson of the Military Prosecutor's Office with the Military Court, Florin Bobin declared on Thursday.

"Our presence at the site is natural. We were notified about this event, so a criminal case has been opened in which investigations are being conducted into what happened, most likely it will be classified under 349-350 of the Criminal Code," said the representative of the Military Prosecutor's Office, agerpres reports.

He explained that the article refers to failure to take and non-compliance with occupational safety measures."It's just an estimate, I couldn't clearly tell you at this point, because I'm not the one conducting the investigation. It is the task of my fellow prosecutors who are actually conducting the investigation. But we will do our duty to ensure that we comply with all legal rules, including the treaty of the US military statute on national territory," Bobin said.A helicopter belonging to the US forces performed an emergency landing on Thursday, in Charles de Gaulle Square in central Bucharest, with no casualties reported.
Approximately 139,300 people, Romanian and foreign citizens, with over 41,700 means of transportation (of which 15,100 trucks) have presented themselves to carry out their formalities at the border crossing points nationwide, in the last 24 hours, the General Inspectorate of the Border Police (IGPF) informs on Thursday.

According to a press release , the entry points were crossed by approximately 73,000 people with 20,100 means of transportation, and 66,300 people with 21,600 means of transportation crossed the exit points, agerpres reports.

The Hungarian border was crossed by approximately 35,000 people with 18,400 means of transportation (7,400 trucks), and at the exit points there were approximately 19,300 people with 10,400 means of transportation and 4,900 trucks.Regarding specific activities, in the competence areas - border crossing points and "green frontier" - the border police have found in the last 24 hours, 36 illegal actions (23 infractions and 13 fines) made by both Romanian citizens, as well as foreign citizens.Also, there were discovered, independently or in collaboration with other institutions, undeclared goods (which were about to be brought into the country illegally) which went over the accepted threshold, or suspected of being counterfeit, with a total value of over 320,000 RON.The value of applied fines goes up to approximately 15,200 RON.In the last 24 hours 32 foreign citizens were denied entry because of not meeting the legal conditions, and 23 Romanian citizens were denied to exit the country because of various legal reasons.
Policemen from the Traffic Police were prompt to intervene in order to block traffic, so as to facilitate the landing of the helicopter belonging to US forces, stated, on Thursday, the spokesperson of the Traffic Police, Claudiu Costea.

"If they hadn't done so, we may have had a tragedy," the Police representative explained.

He added that the policemen requested support through dispatch and were quickly joined by 10 other traffic police crews arriving to restrict traffic.A helicopter belonging to US forces performed an emergency landing on Thursday, in Charles de Gaulle Square in central Bucharest, with no victims reported.
The Transylvania International Book Festival (FICT) comes back with a new edition, the 7th, on which occasion the organisers propose us "to recover together," after the break caused by the pandemic.

The Transylvania International Book Festival (FICT) returns to Unirii Square in Cluj-Napoca on September 16-19, 2021 with the message "We are recovering together!" Organized by the Eikon Cultural Association in partnership with the Cluj-Napoca City Hall, the festival supports Romanian and universal written culture," reads a press release of the organizers on Thursday.

According to the same source, the most important publishing houses in Romania will participate in this year's edition, where there will take place book launches, colloquia and conferences with special guests from France, Italy, Denmark, Norway and Belgium.FICT also aims, through its events, to draw young people's attention to the need for reading, to promote social and cultural responsibility, diversity and civic involvement."As in the previous editions, we want to celebrate the Book and Written Culture through unique events. FICT has managed to gather 100,000 visitors around books at the 2018 edition, thus becoming a reference event in the international cultural landscape. Long time we have been away from each other and away from reading, it is time to Recover together! It is important for us, as a society, not to leave culture in the last place when it comes to returning to normalcy. We wanted to come up with the most interesting ideas, this year, in order to attract young people to read. It will be an edition full of surprises," said the FICT manager, Gabriel Bota.
Universities in the UK are partnering with Romanian educational institutions to open new faculties in the country.

Bucharest International School of Management (BISM, former MSM - Maastricht School of Management) is collaborating with Abertay University in the UK for the launch on the Romanian market, starting with September, of three university degree programs with British model and accreditation, reads a BISM release sent on Thursday to AGERPRES.

Abertay University was in the top 10 universities in the UK in terms of student satisfaction (a study conducted by the UK National Student Survey and the Guardian University Guide 2020), and the Sunday Times named it the university of the year 2020 for the quality of education, says the quoted source.Among the benefits offered by a faculty created in partnership with an international university is the curriculum similar to that offered by Abertay University, which means that BISM students will study as in the UK, but in Romania, which allows them to have lower living and tuition costs by more than 50%.Also, the professors are international academics and top management professionals recognized in Romania, and the bachelor's degree is issued directly by the international partner university.After three years of study, BISM students obtain an internationally accredited diploma.Another benefit is the access to a network of over 400 professionals from different areas of activity during the years of study, leading to direct access with potential employers and investors during college, and tuition fees are significantly reduced compared to the same study programme followed in the UK."For 15 years, the UK has been the favorite destination of young Romanians who wanted to study abroad. The variety of study programs, the high level of education, the rapid integration into the labor market after graduation and the financial benefits they had were the main reasons why in 2020 over 9,000 Romanians studied here," the quoted source shows.After BREXIT, EU students begin to face a number of limitations if they choose this study destination: tuition fees have risen significantly (from 9,000 pounds / year to 12,000 pounds / year), the government loan is no longer available, and the ceiling of scholarships decreased."There is an acute need on the local educational market to offer young people curricula at international standards, adapted to the needs of the local market, and educational institutions in the country are taking solid steps to identify the opportunities they can provide to Romanian students. On the other hand, British universities are beginning to look for solutions to manage the crisis caused by BREXIT. Thus, the association of Romanian with international educational institutions is starting to gain momentum, and in the last 5 years, more than five international university degree programs have been opened in Romania," BISM informs.
Members of the "Bridge 2 Hope" activist group protested outside SLPS headquarters during the July 14 school board meeting. The group is advocating for more personalized reading and mathematics to increase the number of SLPS students reading at grade level.
Kaseya has noted that it's been a target because many of its direct customers are managed-services providers that host IT infrastructure for hundreds, if not thousands, of other businesses.

In the business were in, and the number of endpoints we manage around the world, as you might expect, we take security extremely seriously," Ronan Kirby, president of the company's European operations, said last week at a Belgian cybersecurity conference. You attack a company, you get into the company. You attack a service provider, you get into all their customers. You get into Kaseya, thats a very different proposition. So obviously were an attractive target.

Kaseya declined to answer questions from The Associated Press about the previous hacks or the legal dispute involving its founders.

Mark Sutherland and Paul Wong co-founded Kaseya in California in 2000. They had previously worked together on a project protecting the email accounts of U.S. intelligence workers at the National Security Agency, according to an account on the company's website.

More than a year after selling Kaseya in June 2013, court records show that Sutherland, Wong and two other former top executives sued the company to recoup $5.5 million in stock buybacks they said they were unfairly denied.
In theaters July 16, Roadrunner: A Film About Anthony Bourdain, the latest documentary by Oscar-winning director Morgan Neville (20 Feet From Stardom), chronicles the life and death of the beloved chef, author, host, raconteur and traveler. Using interviews with Bourdains family, friends, collaborators and the longtime crew on his three television series, as well as footage from those series, Neville attempts to paint a nuanced portrait of a complicated man.

Three years ago, Bourdain died by suicide while shooting his Emmy and Peabody award-winning CNN travel show, Parts Unknown, on location in France. It came as a shock not just to the culinary community, but to the many fans and friends hed collected over the years of his cooking, writing and televised travels.

With his tell-all memoir, Kitchen Confidential, Bourdain burst onto the scene as the bad-boy chef of New York brasserie Les Halles, having already kicked a heroin habit. His book was adapted into an ill-fated Fox series starring Bradley Cooper (not streaming anywhere; you have to buy the DVD set if you want to watch it), but Bourdain was destined for his own TV career, eventually finding his calling hosting food-focused travel shows.
The restaurant is a small storefront on the Loops University City side. It wasnt the first restaurant I dined inside since the pandemic arrived, but it is the first I have reviewed. Its dining room holds very few tables spaced well apart.

I have delayed answering the obvious question: Yes, you should order falafel at American Falafel. Qadadeh imported a falafel-making machine from Jordan to capture the proper flavor. While I cant vouch for that level of specificity, I can report that he and Feras make falafel that deliver the ideal crisp-to-tender bite and a subtle but lingering heat from hot green chiles.

You can order these as a sandwich, wrapped in lavash with tahini sauce, hummus, pickles and chopped tomato. I think I prefer them by themselves  maybe with a dab of tahini sauce. Falafel right out of the fryer are on my pandemic-era list of restaurant foods never to take for granted again.

You will find beef and chicken shawarma on American Falafels menu but no rotating vertical spits in its kitchen. Qadadeh and Feras do plan to install spits eventually, but they werent sure whether they would sell enough shawarma to avoid wasting meat. As with the kefta, they figured it out. They season the steak and chicken in their respective secret shawarma spice blends and grill them to order on the flattop.
A  Sierra was fine in the police comedys ensemble, but he reportedly left for what appeared to be a better gig  as the lead in a sitcom, A.E.S. Hudson Street, from the same producer as Barney Miller. Unfortunately, Hudson was not a success. Sierra, however, went on to dozens of other roles in movies and TV. He was 83 when he died of cancer earlier this year.

Q  Will Coroner be returning? Where can I watch reruns?

A  The Canadian drama will begin its third season Aug. 19 on the CW, a change from a previously announced July return. (The third season has already aired in Canada.) You can find the first two seasons episodes on cwtv.com and the CW app.

Q  A few years back there was a series about a New York cop during the Civil War. I believe the name of the series was Copper. Do you have any info about it, and is it available anywhere?

A  Copper, set in 1860s New York, had some impressive people in the production team, among them several from the classic Homicide: Life on the Street. But it lasted just two seasons in 2012-13. The series has been released on DVD.
St. Louis County has plans to roll out gift cards for groceries or gas. The St. Louis Board of Aldermen this week endorsed a plan to provide prepaid debit cards up to $100.

Other states have had some success in monetary incentives. Ohios Vax-a-Million program awarding five $1 million prizes increased the vaccination rate among Ohioans ages 20 to 49 by 55% after it was announced.

Overcoming distrust

But Dr. Fredrick Echols, acting director of the St. Louis Department of Health, said Thursday what has been most effective is canvassing neighborhoods and talking to families and individuals one-on-one.

People are not interested in incentives, Echols said. They have questions about what getting vaccinated means for them and their loved ones. They are unsure how to navigate learning more about the vaccines.

Uptake is the lowest in predominantly Black neighborhoods and also among white conservatives, he said, two groups that tend to not trust government officials or news reports.
Late Wednesday, DHSS spokeswoman Lisa Cox said in an email that DHSS is working with SEMA and local officials to determine how we will best meet the current health care needs of the community.

COMBATING MYTHS

Collins pointed to myths about the vaccines that have circulated on social media as a driving factor in deterring people from getting vaccinated.

Some people were worried the vaccine might cause infertility. Theres been a lot of stuff on the internet about that, Collins said. Theres absolutely no evidence for that in men or in women. We now have tens of thousands of pregnant women who have been immunized and we have no indication that thats causing any problem with the pregnancy.

He said other people have avoided vaccinations because they already had COVID, but he said these people still need to get vaccinated, especially to protect against variants.

The vaccine gives you even a better shot at avoiding getting reinfected with this delta variant. Simply having COVID before is not nearly as reliable as having COVID plus the vaccine, Collins said.

Collins emphasized the spread in southern Missouri poses a threat to Kansas City and St. Louis as well.
The expansion of health benefits is a major piece of the tentative budget deal reached this week by Democrats in Congress. They plan to press ahead  without Republican support  on a bill that could expand Medicare, extend the generous premium subsidies for the Affordable Care Act and provide options for people with low incomes who have been shut out of coverage in states that didnt expand Medicaid. It could be paid for, at least in part, by changes aimed at reducing prescription drug prices. But that assumes Democrats can reach an agreement on the details, because the bill cannot pass without every Democrat in the Senate and nearly every Democrat in the House.
Bush on Wednesday visited three organizations set to benefit from the money and encouraged staff to continue their work.

Each of the organizations we visited today are dedicated to improving the lives of the people in our communities that have been underserved, under-resourced, underfunded for too long, Bush said. These are the type of organizations that we must support if we want to build a St. Louis where everyone can live a joyous and prosperous life.

The Wellston Loop project has been in the works for seven years, Shegog said, but organizers had a short window of time to gather everything they needed for the Community Project Funding application.

Bush took a tour of Mildreds Casa de Paz in the city of Pine Lawn, where nonprofit Pot Bangerz purchased an old house and renovated it so that homeless women, particularly gay or transgender women, can have a transitional place to stay and get job training. Pot Bangerz will receive $165,300 for Casa de Paz if the appropriations bill passes.

Black trans women are not allowed to go into conventional shelter space, explained Cathy Mama Cat Daniels, founder of Pot Bangerz. They have to go into a mens shelter, but theyre women. We want them to go into a space where they feel safe and warm.
Missouri is not among the states that enacted an eviction moratorium in 2020. St. Louis city and county, and Jackson County, which includes Kansas City, issued their own moratoriums. After the Biden administration extended the moratorium by a month, St. Louis city did the same. St. Louis County and Jackson County authorities have said they will adhere to the CDC guidelines.

Meanwhile, tenant advocates claim that many evictions have continued in Missouri despite the CDC moratorium.

The pandemic also has hurt landlords. Nick Kasoff owns 15 rental homes in Ferguson, a St. Louis suburb. He said he's doing OK, but worries that the lengthy moratorium will result in many small-scale landlords losing their properties to foreclosure.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

The Missouri Housing Development Commission is promoting the State Assistance for Housing Relief (SAFHR) program to help people catch-up on past-due rent and utilities. The commission will disburse $593 million statewide. The money comes from federal coronavirus aid programs and is scheduled to last through 2025, although the commission said funding might run out within three years based on the pace of applications.
Grizzlies in that area roam between northern Idaho, northeastern Washington, and southeastern British Columbia. The population there is considered healthy, and is growing about 3% a year, officials said.

Biologists believe the recently collared female lives in the area, and is not a bear from outside of Washington state.

A group of bears - a mother and three cubs - were photographed on another occasion on a game camera in the same area three to four weeks prior to the capture, said Wayne Kasworm, a grizzly bear biologist with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The natal collar - the white ring around the neck - of one of the cubs leads us to believe this is the same family of bears.

Four adult males were captured in 1985, 2016 and 2018, but this was the first instance of a female capture, the state agency said.

"Currently there are believed to be at least 70 to 80 grizzly bears in the Selkirk Grizzly Bear Recovery Zone, Kasworm said. About half those bears live on the Canadian side of the border, with the other half on the U.S. side.

Grizzly bears are listed as a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act and classified as an endangered species in Washington state. The state agency works collaboratively with federal wildlife officials to monitor grizzly bear survival, reproduction, home range use, food habits, genetics, and causes of death.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
"In most instances, the most compelling legal analysis has been written by the so-called conservative justices,'" Cox said in a statement. The Legislature did not lose its legal arguments because the court is predisposed against it or is engaged in some sort of nefarious self-protection. The Legislature lost every legal issue on the merits.

Republican lawmakers had also subpoenaed emails from the justices themselves and asked them to appear before the Select Committee, leading justices to argue the Legislature was trying to create a conflict of interest in an effort to prevent the Supreme Court from ruling on the subpoenas.

This ruling is exactly what youd expect to get from people acting as judges in their own case, protecting their own interests, Republican Sen. Greg Hertz said in a statement Wednesday. Not only did the Montana Supreme Court rule in their own favor on the subpoena question, they have gone way beyond that and ruled in their own favor on a wide variety of other issues that werent before the court. This ruling is poisoned by a massive conflict of interest and its judicial activism at its worst.

Less than two weeks after the court upheld the constitutionality of the law eliminating the Judicial Nomination Commission, the Legislature withdrew the subpoenas and asked the Supreme Court to dismiss McLaughlin's challenge.
Courts do not spend a lot of time on eviction hearings, Lemay said. The larger counties usually proceed by cattle call and if the defendant/tenant doesnt show up the complaint is granted without questioning the plaintiff.

I would have to estimate that at least 90% of all filings (in the past year) resulted in eviction and also a money judgment, Lemay said. Some judges are taking it upon themselves to say no to evictions, but they are the minority.

Lemay said the low-income clients his organization serves typically dont know how to navigate the court system or understand that there is help available to do so.

If they come to us, we can look at it and do a motion to reopen, if the eviction warrants it, or vacate the judgment, he said.

HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATES MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in North Dakota is $841. According to state data, renters occupy 30% of the state's housing units. A household would have to earn more than $33,000 per year to afford the average rent and utilities for a two-bedroom without paying more than 30% of its income on housing.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Its hard to say how much homelessness will increase in North Dakota once the CDC moratorium ends. Lemay said there are too little resources being put into a much bigger problem and already evictions and eviction lawsuits are tracking at least as high this year as last year. One indication of the scope of the problem is recent census data showing that about 8,000 state residents were concerned they could be evicted within two months.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
But what new label for Asian carp will be considered official  invasive carp, which has been criticized as imprecise, or whatever the marketing blitz comes up with?

It could be either. Or neither.

The rebranding campaign will seek U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval to use the new moniker for interstate commerce. But even if the FDA goes along and consumers buy in, scientists are another matter.

The American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists and the American Fisheries Society have a committee that lists fish titles, including scientific names in Latin and common ones thought up by people "who originally described the species or included them in a field guide or other reference, said panel chairman Larry Page, curator of fishes at the Florida Museum of Natural History.

For example, theres Micropterus salmoides, which became known as largemouth bass, and Oncorhynchus mykiss, or rainbow trout.

The committee has never adopted Asian carp as a term for the four invasive species, Page said.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP)  Missouri Gov. Mike Parson suggested Tuesday that some southwest Missouri health officials who are publicly discussing a marked increase in COVID-19 cases are trying to find someone to blame and want to scare people into getting vaccinated.

Health officials should try to encourage people to get vaccinated but should not resort to "trying to force people to take a vaccine or literally just scare them into taking a vaccine because we know that doesnt work, Parson said during a stop in Kansas City.

Springfield health officials have been warning their hospitals are being overrun by new cases fueled by the delta variant. Last week, the Mercy health system announced it would require employees at its more than 40 hospitals  including one in Springfield  to be vaccinated by late September.

"We just need to make sure that people are not scared thinking theyre doing something wrong going to a hospital. And I think the message youre seeing out of southwest Missouri is more people just trying to blame somebody for this virus. The virus itself is to blame, Parson said.
Last month, top Republican lawmakers rescinded the executive order from Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly that imposed the states pandemic ban on evictions and foreclosures. That left only the CDC moratorium, which offered slightly different protections.

The state moratorium had been in effect since August. Kelly also issued an eviction moratorium in March 2020 but let it expire two months later. When the latest Kansas moratorium was lifted, Kelly spokeswoman Reeves Oyster said GOP leaders had decided to kick people out of their homes. Republicans have argued that the states moratorium prevents landlords from getting paid.

WHATS BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Kansas has received two rounds of federal rental aid  $200 million in one and $20 million in the other. As of mid-June, the Kansas Housing Resources Corp. had distributed $5.5 million from the largest pot to about 950 of the 7,780 households that applied (Wichita is the only community not served by the housing corporation). The money can go toward 15 months of rent, utilities and internet expenses.

The state also distributed $17 million in rental aid from the smaller pot, said Emily Sharp, a spokeswoman for the agency.
The broader measure, sponsored by Republican Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer, makes it a crime for police or prison guards to have sex with detainees, or to have sex with anyone else while they're on duty if they use coercion.

It also includes a requirement that juveniles be represented by a lawyer if they're facing charges that could mean incarceration and a mandate that jails and prisons provide women with tampons and menstrual pads.

But Missouri NAACP President Rod Chapel said the measure makes little progress, especially considering it includes numerous provisions to further protect police that he said are unnecessary.

Missouri was so far behind the times on some of these measures, that its hard to say that this is a real improvement because were just catching up with basic human rights, Chapel said.

Luetkemeyer's bill will allow Kansas City police to live outside city limits. He sought the change in hopes of boosting the number of Kansas City police, but critics argued the move will lead to more distrust between Black residents and white officers who don't live in the area they police.

Parson signed Luetkemeyer's bill the same day he gave approval to the measure sometimes referred to as the police bill of rights."
Dozens of judges around the country have already thrown out former President Donald Trumps false voter-fraud claims  but it shouldnt stop there. The legal teams that brought those claims engaged in transparent malfeasance, baselessly promoting wild conspiracy theories, touting affidavits from witnesses who saw nothing, and slandering election officials and voting-system companies. They did all this not in a genuine effort to win their cases (they were self-evidently unwinnable), but to foment public distrust in the election process and rally Trumps base. This is a textbook definition of abuse of process, a punishable infraction in the legal system.

A judge in Michigan is now considering sanctions against nine former Trump lawyers, including potential disbarment and legal fees. Similar actions may  and should  play out in other states. What this small army of anti-democracy attack dogs did should cost attorneys so they will think twice going forward about engaging in such an egregious abuse of the court system.
Jessica Hochman, Executive Director of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, emceed the conference that was based on the UNODC theme of the 2021 International Day Against Illicit Drug Trafficking, Share facts on Drugs, Save Lives, emphasizing the vital role drug education plays in helping people make informed decisions concerning drug use.

The speakers, all experts in drug education and prevention, addressed the vital necessity of primary prevention to revert the UNODC 2021 World Drug Report trends.

Mr. Akira Fujino, President of Drug Abuse Prevention Centre of Japan, a former 25 year UNODC executive, highlighted the need for the general public to receive accurate information on drugs. For example, most people are not informed that cannabis today has up to 15.6 percent THCa four times increase in the past 24 years. Fujino stressed the importance of prevention and credits the recent containment of the drug rate in Japan to the implementation of the Truth About Drugs campaign in the country: an increase of only 1.8 percent.
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by Austin Bay July 14, 2021

The Cuban people are once again rebelling against the communist prison state Fidel Castro established after he seized power in 1959.

Large demonstrations have occurred in over 30 towns and cities, with Havana the focal point. Haphazard reports of protests, arrests and confrontations flood North American and European media, but the reports make it clear thousands of Cubans are in the streets demanding food, medicine and freedom. The demonstrators also accuse the regime of utterly mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic.

Moreover, a large and angry segment of the Cuban population supports the demonstrators and their insistent demands for basic survival necessities and competent government.

Does an overwhelming majority of the population support economic and political change?

My guess is yes, because the Fidelista regime's reaction indicates it fears the people en masse. Like the Chinese Communist Party's reaction to Tiananmen Square 1989's demands for democracy, Cuba's communist elites know permitting freedom means an end to their communist regime and their luxury lifestyles.

Remember, Tiananmen's demonstrators built a ten-meter-tall papier mache statue they called the Goddess of Democracy. On June 4, 1989, the CCP government demolished the statue and murdered demonstrators by the thousands.

Cuba's communists know repression can work. However, the Cuban thugs are not anywhere near as powerful as their Chinese compadres. The U.S. is just 90 miles away.

On July 12, the 21st century Castro dictatorship, now led by President Miguel Diaz-Canel, blocked several social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram. On July 13 one source reported the regime had imposed a partial internet blackout.

The communist regime believes the protests and the demands are coordinated. By whom? Cuba's foreign minister claimed -- without evidence -- the U.S. had financed the protests. Typical communist narrative warfare -- blame the U.S. The CCP blamed the U.S. for inciting Tiananmen's and Hong Kong's pro-democracy protests.

Fidel Castro had charisma. International "progressive" leftists -- sad cases like Senator Bernie Sanders, I-VT, and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-NY -- still venerate Fidel and excuse the regime's vicious tyranny.

Diaz-Canel has minus personality, so 2021's regime suffers from a severe charisma deficit it cannot blame on America. He just isn't capable of jiving mass audiences with "hope" and utopian rhetoric. However, he is as long winded as Fidel. The BBC reported he gave a four-hour-long televised rant calling protestors "counter-revolutionaries." He stated, "The order of combat is given, the revolutionaries take to the streets."

More narrative warfare: "Revolutionaries" translated from Commie propaganda means "armed thugs the regime provides with food and toilet paper." Diaz-Canel was ordering his security forces to attack the demonstrators. He hopes repression works.

There's an argument made that since the late 1960s, when it became apparent Castro's Cuba was a satellite of the Soviet Union, significant numbers of Cubans have been in constant rebellion.

Defecting athletes would receive some media attention. The most prominent rebels were and still are those who take to boats and rafts and try fleeing to elsewhere in the Caribbean, 21st century Chavista Venezuela excepted. Cubans know Nicolas Maduro commands another communist hellhole, though one buoyed by oil income and Russian and Iranian gunrunning.

Mass "boat lifts" occurred in 1980 and 1994. They were rebellions of a sort, with thousands of Cubans rejecting Castro's self-proclaimed workers' paradise and becoming refugees.

Many died fleeing. On social media, Senator Marco Rubio, R-F.L., pointed out "that on July 13, 1994 the Cuban coast guard deliberately sank a tugboat carrying Cubans fleeing the island and then refused to rescue the passengers." The Cuban attack killed 41 Cubans seeking freedom. Rubio followed that with video of a 2021 protestor "shot by regime forces" arriving at a hospital in a horse-drawn ambulance.

Right. Horse-drawn. Under the leadership of Fidel and his brother, Raul, Cuban agriculture has moved from tractors to oxen, transportation from buses to bicycles. The Cuban Army became a larger presence in the economy. The same thing has happened with China's People's Liberation Army.

Cuba's July 2021 demonstrations may not topple the regime, but the protests indicate Cuba is on the verge of a cultural and political rebellion against Marxist tyranny.
Turkey is trying to barter its way out of its various disputes with NATO in general and the United States in particular. In return for halting efforts to buy or use Russian military equipment and offering troops to keep the main Afghanistan airport, outside Kabul, functioning after all other NATO forces have left, Turkey wants a free hand against Greece over maritime disputes that also involve the illegal presence of Turkish forces in Libya. So far NATO is united in support for Greece against Turkey on this and getting the Turks out of Libya. Turkey needs some kind of compromise regarding NATO because that is one opponent they cannot beat.

July 13, 2021: In Afghanistan the Pakistani-backed Taliban made it official that they consider Turkish troops remaining in Afghanistan a hostile act. At the same time the Taliban welcomed the presence of more Chinese economic activity and guaranteed the Chinese immunity from any Islamic terrorist violence.

July 12, 2021: In a series of high-level meetings Turkey and France have agreed to a diplomatic reset. The two NATO nations have several serious policy differences in Africa, with Libya the most critical dispute. In Libya Turkey backed the GNA (Government of National Accord) in Tripoli and France backed the Libyan HoR (House of Representatives) based in Tobruk and controlling most of Libya. France claimed Turkey violated the arms embargo. Despite the recent unification of the GNA and HoR as the GNU (Government of National Unity) the situation remains fragile and for the GNU to work and national elections held the Turkish forces must withdraw. France continues to call for the withdrawal of Turkish forces in Libya. France also argues that the offshore resources deal Turkey signed with the GNA violates several international treaties.

In Afghanistan the Taliban threatened to attack the 500 Turkish troops as foreign invaders even though they are Moslem. The Turks ignored the Taliban threat, which was the worst possible answer for the Taliban. While the Turks are on good terms with Pakistan, they not play well with Islamic terrorists who attack them. Moreover, the Turks are coming to Afghanistan in order to improve relations with NATO, not the Taliban.

July 11, 2021: Turkey is urging Greece to avoid making provocative moves in the Mediterranean should resolve their differences in bilateral discussions and not rely on third parties. Greece recently accused Turkey of being provocative after Turkey announced president Erdogan will visit the Turkish statelet on Cyprus on July 20.

July 10, 2021: The Turkish Defense Minister met with his American counterpart to discuss an emerging plan for Turkey to operate and protect Kabul Airport once U.S. forces withdraw. At the moment Turkey has around 500 to 600 troops in Afghanistan. Most of them are there training Afghan security forces, meaning they have a non-combat NATO mission. However, some Turkish troops are serving at the international airport. The airport is about 60 kilometers south of Kabul. There are rumors that Turkish troops might take on a larger mission than just the airport. The unanswered question is what does Erdogan want in exchange for providing security after the U.S. leaves. It appears negotiations between Turkey and the United States will continue. Protecting the airport is key to maintaining a credible strategic presence in Afghanistan. (Austin Bay)

July 9, 2021: Turkey is the worlds second largest donor of humanitarian aid. In 2020 Turkey donated $8.04 billion in humanitarian aid, which was about 26 percent of all humanitarian aid. The United States is first, spending $8.9 billion. Germany was third with $3.7 billion.

July 8, 2021: July 8, 2021: Greek diplomats are making another concerted effort to prevent the sale of modern German submarines to Turkey. Germany has agreed to sell Turkey six of the new Reis model submarines.

Turkish missile manufacturer Roketsan is producing an anti-radiation (radar seeking) missile. Data on the Akbaba (Vulture) are classified, but the Turkish Air Force intends to buy the missile as a replacement for the U.S.-made AGM-88 High Speed Anti-Radiation Missile (HARM). Via frequent upgrades, the AGM-88 has been the leading HARM system since it was introduced in 1985.

July 6, 2021: Four Turkish F-16s and their support personnel have deployed to Polands Malbork Air Base. The Turkish jets are part of a NATO Air Policing mission. The Turkish jets will help the Polish Air Force defend NATO airspace.

July 3, 2021: Latvia indicated it may purchase one of Turkeys sturdy unmanned aerial systems (drones). Ukraine and Turkey have already purchased Turkish-made Bayraktar TB-2 systems. Reportedly Latvia was impressed by the drones success in Azerbaijan in Fall 2020.

July 1, 2021: The United States has added Turkey to the list of countries it believes permit the use of child (under 18) soldiers. This is the first time the U.S. has put a NATO ally on the list. The U.S. is not accusing Turkey of directly employing child soldiers. The U.S. believes a Syrian opposition group Turkey supports, the Sultan Murad Division, uses child soldiers. The Sultan Murad Division is largely manned by ethnic Turkmen who consider some sixteen- or seventeen-year-old boys old enough to fight. In medieval armies the average age was often 17 and since assault rifles became cheaply and widely available in the 1990s, arming younger teenagers has become more common for irregular forces of local defense militias.

June 30, 2021: Russia stated that Turkey has made definitive assurances that the new Canal Istanbul is being built to make it easier for commercial ships to transit the Bosporus. The canal will not change agreements governing the passage of foreign naval vessels. Russia has been very concerned that the new canal will breach the 1936 Montreux Convention that regulates the passage of naval vessels through the Bosporus and Dardanelles Straits. The 45-kilometer- long canal will connect the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara, bypassing the narrowest portions of the strait that connects the Black Sea and the Mediterranean. Canal Istanbul will provide a faster and safer passage for larger ships, which Russia fears could include the ability to evade the terms of the Montreux Convention that limit the tonnage of warships nations not bordering the Black Sea have moved through the Bosporus and limit foreign ship visits to 21 days.

June 29, 2021: Turkeys defense minister visited the Central Asian state Kyrgyzstan and said that maintaining the largely (90 percent) Turkic Kyrgyzstans political stability is a Turkish priority.

June 28, 2021: In response to new covid19 virus variants, Turkey has stopped all airline flights and direct travel from Bangladesh, Brazil, South Africa, India, Nepal and Sri Lanka.

In raids conducted throughout the capital (Ankara), Turkish police arrested 26 people allegedly linked to ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant). Police later said they had identified 30 suspects (28 Iraqis and two Syrians.)

June 27, 2021: Turkish Aerospace (TUSAS) announced that its newest T625 Gokbey twin-engine medium helicopter prototype successfully completed a 40-minute-long test flight. The helicopter is yet another indigenously developed and manufactured Turkish combat system.

June 26, 2021: President Erdogan laid the first brick of the Sazlidere Bridge, one of six viaducts crossing the new Canal Istanbul. Erdogan is facing intense criticism within Turkey for building the canal. There are environmental concerns. Also, passage through the Bosporus is free. Canal Istanbul will charge a fee.

June 23, 2021: Turkey once again said that it is willing to secure Kabuls airport. Diplomats speculated that one reason Turkey is considering taking on the mission is that it has angered so many key NATO allies and this is a way to placate them. Another explanation is making the rounds  Turkey wishes to extend its own influence in Central Asia. There are several ethnic Turkic nations in the region. There were discussions in 2019 that the Taliban might consider a Turkish presence in Afghanistan if it was operating outside of NATO.

June 18, 2021: Turkey announced it is suspending activation of the Russian-made S-400 surface-to-air missile defense system. The S-400 equipment will remain packed and inactivated. The suspension comes in the face of heightened U.S. economic and political sanctions. The Air Force is very concerned because the bad relations with the U.S. included Turkey being removed from the F-35 consortium and barred from buying the F-35. Senior Air Force officers regard suggestions that Turkey buy Russian jets as being unrealistic. The politicians making the suggestions do not understand that Russian aircraft will require massive and very expensive changes to Turkish Air Force maintenance, repair and service operations. The new Russian have been seen operating in Syria as have Israeli and American F-35s. The American aircraft are still superior and arch-enemy Greece is getting at least 24 of them, and soon.

June 16, 2021: Turkeys KuzeyStar shipyard has agreed to build a very large floating dry dock for Russia. The dry dock will operate in a port on the Barents Sea near the Arctic Circle. No Russian shipyard met the Kremlin design requirements and price. The contract is really a testament to Turkeys highly competitive shipbuilding industry.

June 15, 2021: President Erdogan signed an agreement that pledges Turkish support for Azerbaijan if it is attacked. The Shusha Declaration (signed in the Azeri town of Shusha) commits Turkey to protecting Azerbaijans territorial integrity. Armenia condemned Erdogans visit to Shusha, which was a major battleground in last years conflict.

June 14, 2021: Turkey will need diplomatic, logistic and financial assistance from the United States if Turkey were to leave troops in Afghanistan to protect Kabuls airport. Turkey would also like to see Pakistan and Hungary provide forces for a new post-U.S. Afghanistan mission.
DCVC Bio leads round advancing new breakthrough hair regeneration technology to help millions suffering the physical and mental effects of hair loss

SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Stemson Therapeutics announced today the closing of a DCVC Bio-led $15 million Series A financing to advance development of Stemsons proprietary therapeutic solution to cure hair loss. Genoa Ventures, AbbVie Ventures and other investors join in supporting Stemsons efforts to restore human hair growth with a novel cell regeneration technology using the patients own cells to generate new hair follicles.

In addition, Kiersten Stead, Ph.D., Co-Managing Partner at DCVC Bio and Jenny Rooke, Ph.D., Managing Director at Genoa Ventures will join Stemsons Executive Chairman Matt Posard and Chief Executive Officer and co-founder Geoff Hamilton on the board of directors. Dr. Stead invests in early-stage companies that build novel deep tech businesses in the life sciences. Stead received a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology & Genetics and an MBA in finance from the University of Alberta. Dr. Rooke is founder and Managing Director at Genoa Ventures where she specializes in early-stage companies innovating at the convergence of technology and biology. Rooke received a Ph.D. in Genetics from Yale University and a degree in physics from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

We are excited and honored to welcome DCVC Bio and a fantastic syndicate of investors to the Stemson team. The Series A funding will help us optimize our solution for human skin structure and environment so we can go into our first human clinical trial with high confidence for a positive outcome. We have the technical and biological building blocks to successfully address hair loss that overcomes failures of past therapies, said Hamilton. The addition of key venture capital investors DCVC Bio, Genoa Ventures and AbbVie Ventures broadens and strengthens our investor base. DCVC Bio and Genoa Ventures are successful early-stage development investors, and I am pleased to welcome Dr. Stead and Dr. Rooke, our newest board members, to the team. In addition, the AbbVie Venture investment comes on the heels of an initial seed investment from Allergan Aesthetics in 2020, and the continued industry interest in our technology is encouraging.

Globally, hundreds of millions of men and women suffer from various forms of hair loss. Though there are many possible causes of hair loss, including chemotherapy, autoimmune disease, scarring, and genetics, all can result in a loss of self-esteem and cause depression, anxiety and other mental health disruption for those affected. The hair restoration market is expected to exceed $13.6 billion by 2028, and no solution today is capable of generating an unlimited new supply of healthy follicles for patients in need.

Almost 30 years have passed since the last FDA-approved hair loss treatment, yet millions still suffer the physical and mental impact of losing their hair each year, stated Dr. Stead. Stemsons novel stem cell engineering platform has the potential to cure hair loss once and for all, treating not only the physical symptoms of this complex problem, but the mental burden as well.

"The team at Genoa is impressed with Stemsons vision to blend biology and technology and apply it beyond traditional biotech," added Dr. Rooke. "By combining exciting advancements in iPSCs with novel technologies in materials and data sciences, Stemson exemplifies the kind of chimeric teams Genoa seeks to support on their journey to become a category-defining company."

The Series A financing brings the total funding raised to date to $22.5 million and allows Stemson to further the next stage of research and development of its cell engineering platform, where is it being combined with bioengineered material and robotic delivery as a novel solution for natural hair replacement. Currently, Stemsons research and development efforts are focused on developing an optimized solution for human skin structure environment in larger animal models. Stemsons Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC) based technology is capable of producing the cell types required to initiate hair follicle growth and have been successfully tested in small animal models.

About Cell Regeneration Technology

Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSC) have the unique capability to replicate indefinitely and give rise to all cell types of the human body, including the cell types required for repair. iPSC-based technology is capable of producing the cell types required to initiate hair follicle growth. As a new therapeutic platform, iPSCs represent an emerging area of regenerative cell therapy. Stemson is one of a growing number of companies at the forefront in developing iPSC-based treatments.

About DCVC Bio

For over twenty years, DCVC and its principals have backed brilliant entrepreneurs applying Deep Tech, from the earliest stage and beyond, to pragmatically and cost-effectively tackle previously unsolvable problems in nearly every industry. DCVC Bio specializes in supporting life sciences platform companies at the intersections of engineering and therapeutics, industrial biotechnology and agriculture. For more information, please visit https://www.dcvc.com/companies.html#dcvc-bio

About Genoa Ventures

Genoa Ventures invests in early-stage companies working at the convergence of biology & technology to accelerate the pace of innovation, transform industries, and solve some of the most fundamental challenges to life. Genoa, identifies opportunities early and focuses its investments and expertise to empower the next great category-defining companies. The Genoa team has a unique chimeric blend of experience from scientific research and discovery to executive management in the life sciences and technologies sectors. The team applies this diverse experience to provide expert guidance to its companies and stellar returns to its investors.

About AbbVie Ventures

AbbVie Ventures is the corporate venture capital group of AbbVie. We are a strategic investor, investing exclusively in novel, potentially transformational science aligned with AbbVie's core R&D interests. We measure success primarily by the extent to which our investments foster innovation with potential to transform the lives of patients that AbbVie serves. AbbVie Ventures enables its portfolio companies with both funding as well as access to AbbVie's internal network of experts across all phases of drug development, from drug discovery through commercialization. For more information, please visit www.abbvie.com/ventures

About Stemson Therapeutics

Stemson Therapeutics is a pre-clinical stage cell therapy company founded in 2018 with a mission to cure hair loss by leveraging the regenerative power of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Based on the breakthrough innovation by Stemson Therapeutics co-founder, Dr. Alexey Terskikh, Stemson uses iPSC to regenerate the critical cells required to grow hair and which are damaged or depleted in patients suffering from hair loss. The iPSC-derived cells are used to grow de novo hair follicles, offering a new supply of hair to treat people suffering from various forms of Alopecia. Today, there are no available treatments capable of growing new hair follicles. Stemsons world class team of scientists, advisors and collaborators are passionate about delivering a scientifically based, clinically tested cure for hair loss to the millions of hair loss sufferers who seek help for their hair loss condition. Stemson Therapeutics is headquartered in San Diego, CA. For more information, please visit www.stemson.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005329/en/

Amy Caterina (amy@stemsontx.com) at Stemson Therapeutics

Source: Stemson Therapeutics
HOUSTON, July 14, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- C-Bond Systems (the Company or C-Bond) (OTC: CBNT), a nanotechnology solutions company, announced today that it has received a purchase order for $220,000 to install specialty defense window film for a government customer.

Radio frequency defense film, also known as RF attenuation window film or anti-eavesdropping film, protects homes or workplaces against radio frequencies and electromagnetic radiation. The RF film that the customer requires meets strict security requirements for facilities handling classified or other sensitive information. The government customer has requested to remain anonymous for security reasons.

As we broaden and grow our Safety Solutions Group through our recently announced acquisition of A1 Glass Coating, we are able to offer customers a full suite of window film solutions, stated Scott R. Silverman, Chairman and CEO of C-Bond. This is the first example of a new product for a specified customer need that we did not previously provide, which will allow us to position ourselves as the go-to Company for any window film installation, including high security situations.

This purchase order for RF defense film was received by A1 Glass Coating. As previously announced, on June 30, 2021, C-Bond entered into a Share Exchange Agreement to acquire 80% of A1 Glass Coating, its premier distributor and installer of C-Bond products. Several closing conditions remain outstanding, and the parties expect to finalize the transaction in July 2021.

About C-BondC-Bond Systems, Inc. (OTC: CBNT) is a Houston-based advanced nanotechnology company and marketer of the patented and patent-pending C-Bond technology, developed in conjunction with Rice University and independently proven to significantly strengthen glass in key automotive and structural applications. The Companys Transportation Solutions Group sells C-Bond nanoShield, a liquid solution applied directly to automotive windshields, sold through distributors. The Companys Safety Solutions Group sells ballistic-resistant glass solutions and forced entry deterrent solutions directly to private enterprises, schools, and government agencies. The Company also sells disinfection products, including MB-10 Tablets. For more information, please visit our website: www.cbondsystems.com, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cbondsys/ and Twitter: https://twitter.com/CBondSys.

Forward-Looking StatementsStatements in this press release about our future expectations, including the likelihood that C-Bond received a $220,000 purchase order to install specialty defense window film for a government customer; the likelihood that this is an example that will allow us to position ourselves as the go-to Company for any window film installation, including high security situations; the likelihood that the parties expect to finalize the transaction in July 2021; constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and as that term is defined in the Private Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change at any time, and our actual results could differ materially from expected results. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, C-Bonds ability to raise capital; the Companys ability to successfully commercialize its products; the effect of the COVID-19 global pandemic on the Companys and its customers ability to operate; the Companys ability to source materials; the Companys ability to retain key employees and consultants; the Companys ability to close the Exchange Agreement with A1 Glass; as well as other risks. Additional information about these and other factors may be described in the Companys filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) including its Form 10-K filed on April 14, 2021, its Forms 10-Q filed on May 14, 2021, November 16, 2020, and August 14, 2020, and in future filings with the SEC. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this statement or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law.

Contact: Allison Tomek C-Bond Systems 6035 South Loop East Houston, TX 77033 atomek@cbondsystems.com Brokers and Analysts: Chesapeake Group 410-825-3930 info@chesapeakegp.com

Source: C-Bond Systems
SAN DIEGO, July 14, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Oberon Fuels, the worlds only producer of ultra-low carbon, renewable dimethyl ether (rDME) transportation fuels, announces that longtime propane industry executive and advocate Cinch Munson has joined the team as Vice President of Commercial Development. The appointment comes as Oberon has begun commercial production of rDME and is expanding market development across North America and around the world.

Oberon Fuels is expanding on multiple fronts right now  from driving sales of rDME as a blending agent for propane users to unlocking the pathway for renewable hydrogen, and Cinch will be at the center of it all, said Rebecca Boudreaux, Ph.D., CEO of Oberon Fuels. From securing feedstock partnerships within the ag industry, to siting our next production facility to building awareness of rDMEs benefits to the global energy industry, Cinch is the perfect fit for this role.

Munson has more than 20 years in the propane and agribusiness sectors. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President, Business Development, for the Propane Education and Research Council (PERC), a trade association that promotes the safe and efficient use of propane fuels.

During his tenure, he led the propane industrys growth efforts by leading business development on behalf of the US propane industry through partnerships, market development, product development, and product commercialization.

With an estimated Carbon Intensity (CI) value of -278 according to the California Air Resources Board, and similar handling and storage properties as propane, rDME can be an ideal blending agent to reduce the carbon intensity of propane. It can be produced at or near renewable feedstock sources using Oberons modular production technology. Because rDME is compatible with LPG, it requires minimal modifications to the existing global LPG distribution network and workforce, which have been safely handling and transporting similar molecules for more than a century.

The synergies between rDME and the propane industry are unique, and rDME provides a remarkable pathway to not only further reduce the carbon footprint of todays propane, but also unlock the future of hydrogen, said Munson. rDME is uniquely positioned to decarbonize the transportation sector and beyond.

In June, Oberon and the Los Alamos National Laboratory were awarded grant funding from the U.S. Department of Energy for a project to scale-up steam reforming technology that would produce renewable hydrogen (rH2) from rDME at the point of use (i.e. a fueling station). This novel approach overcomes the two largest barriers to widespread hydrogen adoption: the lack of cost-competitive, sustainable production and lack of energy-dense storage and transport.

Renewable DME can be made from a variety of waste resources, but the most promising and the most scalable sources come from large agricultural resources, specifically around dairy and other livestock operations. Prior to joining PERC, Munson spent more than a decade in the agribusiness industry including Director of Market Operations at Mercaris, a provider of market information and trading platforms for certified and identity preserved crops; Manager of Product Quality and Innovation at Oxbow Animal Health; Associate Vice President at Mid-Plains Center for Enterprise; Verified Services Manager at AgInfoLink; and Market Analyst at Cattle-Fax.

Munson earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Cum Laude in Animal Science with an emphasis in Life Sciences from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a Master of Science (M.S.) in Animal Science with an emphasis in Systems Management and Nutrition from Colorado State University.

Cinch has been instrumental in the growth of the propane industry through his leadership at PERC and his efforts will continue to benefit our industry, said Tucker Perkins, President and CEO of the Propane Education and Research Council. We look forward to finding new opportunities for the propane industry through collaboration with Cinch and Oberon.

About Oberon FuelsCalifornia-based Oberon Fuels is on a global mission to decarbonize transportation by producing a powerful, enabling molecule, dimethyl ether (DME). DME, which can range from being ultra-low carbon to carbon-negative, can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the transportation sector and beyond 1) as an energy-dense, cost-effective means to move renewable hydrogen, 2) as a blending agent for LPG, and 3) as a diesel replacement. Oberon has challenged the status quo by introducing innovative solutions to the transportation sector to reduce its carbon footprint, vehicle emissions and improve local air quality while creating economic opportunity for the communities where they operate. In 2013, Oberon Fuels refinery in Brawley, Calif., produced the first fuel-grade DME in North America, and in 2021 produced the first-ever renewable DME in the US. Oberons DME has powered vehicle demonstrations around the world with Volvo Trucks, Mack Trucks, Ford, among others. Founded in 2010, Oberon Fuels is privately held with both private and strategic investors, including Suburban Propane Partners, L.P. (NYSE: SPH).

More information about Oberon Fuels is available at www.oberonfuels.com.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/01365ad1-0ae8-4750-a683-36be8c802b5a

Media Contact John Williams, Scoville PR for Oberon Fuels 206-660-5503, jwilliams@scovillepr.com

Cinch Munson, Vice President Commercial Development, Oberon Fuels Cinch Munson has been appointed Vice President of Commercial Development at Oberon Fuels, producer of renewable DME fuel

Source: Oberon Fuels
ANN ARBOR, Mich., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Domino's Pizza Inc. (NYSE: DPZ), the largest pizza company in the world based on global retail sales, is celebrating the monumental grand opening of the brand's 18,000th store in the world today in La Junta, Colorado.

"This is a remarkable milestone for Domino's, and I am thrilled it is happening in La Junta," said Ritch Allison, Domino's CEO. "We've grown our total global store count by more than 5,100 stores in the past five years, and we couldn't be more ecstatic to commemorate the brand's 18,000th store in the world, right here in Colorado."

The commemorative 18,000th store, located at 1 Conley Road, will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Allison; Frank Garrido, Domino's executive vice president of U.S. operations and support; La Junta Domino's franchise owner Brian Bailey; and other key company executives on Thursday, July 15 at 11 a.m. Bailey will also present a $18,000 donation to La Junta Associated Charities, in honor of the 18,000th store.

"I'm honored to have the La Junta store be a part of this milestone and I'm thrilled that we are able to give back to an organization that does such tremendous work in the local community," said Bailey. "La Junta Associated Charities provide food and emergency relief to those in need and I'm so grateful our Domino's team can help support their mission."

La Junta Associated Charities is a nonprofit organization that assists low-income individuals and families who find themselves in desperate situations. The organization was established in 1980 and is funded through donations, grants and government programs.

About Domino's Pizza

Founded in 1960, Domino's Pizza is the largest pizza company in the world based on retail sales, with a significant business in both delivery and carryout pizza. It ranks among the world's top public restaurant brands with a global enterprise of more than 18,000 stores in over 90 markets. Domino's had global retail sales of over $16.1 billion in 2020, with nearly $8.3 billion in the U.S. and over $7.8 billion internationally. In the first quarter of 2021, Domino's had global retail sales of over $4.0 billion, with nearly $2.0 billion in the U.S. and over $2.0 billion internationally. Its system is comprised of independent franchise owners who accounted for 98% of Domino's stores as of the end of the first quarter of 2021. Emphasis on technology innovation helped Domino's achieve more than half of all global retail sales in 2020 from digital channels. In the U.S., Domino's generated more than 70% of sales in 2020 via digital channels and has developed several innovative ordering platforms, including those for Google Home, Facebook Messenger, Apple Watch, Amazon Echo, Twitter and more. In 2019, Domino's announced a partnership with Nuro to further its exploration and testing of autonomous pizza delivery. In mid-2020, Domino's launched a new way to order contactless carryout nationwide  via Domino's Carside Delivery, which customers can choose when placing a prepaid online order.

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Two Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II's fly above the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility on June 29, 2020. The Thunderbolt II is a highly accurate, global reach airframe that provides U.S. forces a maneuverable close air support and precision strike platform. (Justin Parsons/U.S. Air Force)

A top Air Force general defended the services plan to cut dozens of its vaunted A-10 Thunderbolt II attack jets next year, telling lawmakers this week the Air Force must move resources and airmen from the A-10 fleet to shore up its growing F-35 formations.

The A-10 is a wonderful airplane. Its done incredible things for our nation, Air Force Lt. Gen. David Nahom, the services plans and programs chief, told the House Armed Services Committees tactical air and land forces subpanel on Tuesday. But we have to start repurposing some of the resources out of the A-10 into some modern capabilities  specifically manpower. If we dont reduce the A-10 slightly this year, we run into extreme problems.

The service wants to cut 42 A-10s from its 281-jet fleet in 2022. The Air Force made the request in its fiscal 2022 budget request submitted to Congress in May, telling lawmakers the move would save the service some $344 million. On Tuesday, Nahom said the Air Force plans to cut another 21 A-10s in fiscal 2023, reducing the fleet to 218 aircraft.

Several lawmakers have already expressed opposition the proposed cuts to the A-10 fleet, the militarys most proven close-support aircraft designed in the 1970s specifically to fly low over front-line troops to provide firepower from the air. In recent years  including last year when the Air Force proposed cutting 44 A-10s, known as Warthogs  Congress has routinely blocked the service from retiring any of the jets.

Among his top concerns, Nahom said A-10 maintainers need to be shifted to the F-35 fleet to keep the advanced, multirole stealth fighter jets flying as the services inventory continues to grow. Air Force leaders believe the F-35 is the cornerstone of its future fighter jet fleet and critical in potential major combat operations against the likes of China or Russia and their formidable air defense systems.

Air Force officials argue the A-10 remains useful today in fights against low-tech adversaries, but they do not believe it would be useful in a high-end fight against a near-peer adversary with similar capabilities to the U.S. military. Service officials have said they believe the F-35 could ultimately take over close air-support missions.

A U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II releases counter measure flares over the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, July 23, 2020. The A-10 Thunderbolt II is a highly accurate airframe that provides U.S. and coalition forces a maneuverable close air support and precision strike platform. (Justin Parsons/U.S. Air Force)

The Defense Department has completed a study comparing the abilities of F-35s and A-10s to conduct close air support, but its results are classified, said Raymond OToole, the Pentagons acting director for operational tests and evaluation. He did say the F-35 has showed some signs of improvement in that role, but in many areas [the F-35] still falls short of the required threshold.

The A-10 was the first aircraft built specifically to conduct close air support. It flies low and slow, capable of operating below 1,000 feet and carrying a number of air-to-ground bombs and its most famous weapon  the 30mm GAU-8/A cannon, a seven-barrel Gatling gun that fires 3,900 rounds per minute. It has been used extensively to support ground operations in Afghanistan, Syria and Iraq, where it was used in Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom and most recently against the Islamic State in Operation Inherent Resolve.

It is designed to take direct hits from armor-piercing or high-explosive rounds without destroying the aircraft, according to the Air Force. It can continue to fly and land even after it loses hydraulic power.

Lawmakers argue the F-35 has yet to prove itself capable of withstanding enemy attacks at low range as does the A-10 while delivering devastating airpower against enemies fighting close-in battles with American forces.

The F-35 program also has faced substantial delays and cost overruns, military officials have acknowledged. It has also proven more costly to fly and maintain than expected, though officials have said some of those costs have improved in recent years.

Among the A-10s top supporters in Congress, Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., has questioned the F-35s close air-support capabilities. Kelly, a former astronaut and Navy fighter pilot who flew combat missions during Desert Storm, warned President Joe Biden in a June 8 letter provided by his office that retiring any A-10s without a capable close air-support replacement would leave a severe capability gap within our military.

Sen. Kelly remains opposed to retiring A-10s without a suitable replacement to carry out the close air-support mission that is critical to our national security and protecting American troops, Jacob Peters, a spokesman for Kelly, wrote in an email on Thursday. Sen. Kelly will continue working through the National Defense Authorization Act process to keep the A-10 flying at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, and to ensure [Davis-Monthan] remains integral to the Air Forces mission, our national security, and to the southern Arizona economy.

Several other senators also have opposed plans to retire A-10s, including Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, D-Ariz., Georgias Democratic Sens. Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossof, and Michigans Democratic Sens. Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow.

Davis-Monthan would see the brunt of the cuts to the A-10 fleet, losing 35 aircraft and 632 troops, according to Kellys office.

Air Force officials have said they plan to cut two of the services nine A-10 squadrons, an active-duty squadron from Davis-Monthans 355th Wing and the Indiana National Guards 122nd Fight Wing, 163rd Fighter Squadron. The Guard unit would convert to an F-16-flying squadron under that plan, officials said.

The service, which in the mid-2010s floated cutting the entire A-10 force amid budget constraints, has committed to keeping most of its Warthogs flying into the 2030s. A service spokesman said Wednesday that the service had purchased enough upgraded wing sets needed for the A-10s to continue flying into that decade for the 218 planes it plans to keep.

As of July, 173 of the Air Forces A-10s had received new wings and 45 were scheduled to receive them, said Capt. Josh Benedetti, an Air Force spokesman. He did not say what the Air Force would do if Congress mandates the service keep all 281 A-10s.

Nahom on Tuesday gave lawmakers another reason the service wants to retire some of Davis-Monthans A-10s. He told them that the service needs to make room for other A-10s and HH-60 Pave Hawk combat search and rescue helicopters to move to the Arizona base from their longtime home at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada.

The Air Force selected Nellis to house more F-35s in the coming years as the services primary training center for fifth-generation fighter aircraft  F-35s and F-22 Raptors. To make room for new F-35s, it proposed last month moving the A-10 Weapons Instructor Course and Test and Evaluation operations from Nellis to Davis-Monthan in 2022. The HH-60 Weapons Instructor Course and other combat search and rescue units including the 66th Rescue Squadron, 58th Rescue Squadron, the 34th Weapons Squadron and the 855th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron would move from Nellis to Davis-Monthan in the following years, according to that plan.

Nahom said the Air Force must move the A-10s and rescue helicopters from Nellis to relieve over-crowding at the base.

The general said Nellis has had an influx of troops and aircraft during the past decade, and the base is already overcrowded not only in the dormitories for the airmen, [but] certainly in the airspace and certainly on the ramp.

So, if we do not reduce those A-10s [at Nellis] were going to  were just going to have to go back and do some further analysis and see what we can do, Nahom said. Right now, it would be problematic to keep all the A-10s, as are in the system right now.
Children take part in the Teddy Bear Picnic, April 26, 2019, at Moody Air Force Base, Ga. The Air Force has requested $20 million in its fiscal 2022 proposed budget for only one child-care development center to be replaced at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas, despite a Defense Department report last year identifying more than 70 service child-care facilities need upgrades. (Erick Requadt/U.S. Air Force)

WASHINGTON  Air Force officials on Wednesday defended their plan to replace just one child-care center in 2022, despite a Defense Department report last year identifying more than 70 service child-care facilities need upgrades.

The 2020 report mandated by Congress found 72 poor and four failing Air Force child development facilities.

However, an Air Force official said during a subpanel hearing of the House Armed Services Committee that the service has requested $20 million in its fiscal 2022 proposed budget for only one child-care development center to be replaced at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas.

Child-care development centers typically provide care on military installations for infants up to preschool-age children. Jennifer Miller, acting assistant secretary of the Air Force for installations, environment and energy, said the service has 222 CDCs, school-age centers, and programs that provide care to children in kindergarten through sixth grade.

The militarys child-care issues reach further than the Air Force, however. All of the services have historically struggled to keep pace with much-needed repairs at their base facilities. At the same time, the services have also been unable to meet demand for a growing number of Defense Department personnel with families who need child care.

Rep. Jackie Speier, D-Calif., pressed Miller on why the service requested funding for just one CDC despite the high numbers of poor and failing facilities in the DOD report. She said she has heard horror stories of families waiting for child care for more than a year.

Miller said 5,100 families and 5,116 children have unmet child care needs, and the average wait time for a slot in a child-care facility is 151 days. But the decision to renovate only one child-development center was based on a new Air Force building condition index, she said.

The Defense Department in its report rated facilities as good, fair, poor or failing, though it did not describe what those categories represent. However, the Air Force scoring system used a color code to denote a facilitys condition and concluded service centers were in better condition than the DOD report.

Only one on the building condition index was poor or red and that one has a $3.6 million renovation pending, Miller said, citing the Air Force evaluation of its facilities. For the other ones, we have amber, which is still acceptable to use, she said. It was unclear at which base the renovation is underway.

In the Air Force evaluation, facilities rated red require significant investment during the next couple of years. An Air Force document obtained by Federal News Network in March describes green is good condition, subject to minor repair or routine maintenance, amber is acceptable condition, or in need of system repair or replacement, and red is poor condition or in need of major rehabilitation or replacement.

Speier asked Miller to submit a list of all the properties that are considered red and amber on the Air Force condition index, and at which bases they are located, as well as what makes a facility poor or failing. The issue of child care must be a higher priority for the Air Force, she said, illustrated by the long wait times.

Miller acknowledged the Air Force has not historically funded CDCs at the level that we ought to. But she said 144 facilities are amber, which require some fixes, and 74 are green, which do not require attention, according to the Air Force report.

Miller also argued the Air Force building condition index assesses physical infrastructure requirements, and health or safety issues are resolved immediately. More so, the Air Force appointed a group in 2020 to come up with a list of projects that need the most urgent attention, she said.

Miller also said four CDCs are on the Air Forces unfunded priority list, a wish list sent to Congress that details what the service would spend money on if it had more funds. Those projects are at Lackland Air Force Base and Fort Sam Houston at Joint Base San Antonio, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio and Royal Air Force Lakenheath in England.

The House Appropriations Committees subpanel on defense approved a measure this week that included $24,000 in funding for the first two projects and $29,000 for the latter two, in addition to the $20 million requested for the replacement at Sheppard Air Force Base.
Col. David Epperson, left, the 52nd Fighter Wing's outgoing commander, and Col. Leslie Hauck, the incoming commander, listened to opening remarks from Maj. Gen. Randall Reed, 3rd Air Force commander, during the wing's change of command ceremony July 15, 2021, on Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. (Melody Howley/U.S. Air Force)

KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany  Col. David Epperson spent the night before he relinquished command of the 52nd Fighter Wing at Spangdahlem Air Base in neighboring villages, filling sandbags to help stem widespread flooding after days of heavy rainfall.

It was when Epperson saw his relief, Col. Leslie Hauck, doing the same thing that he knew the wing was in good hands, Epperson said at a change-of-command ceremony Thursday.

More than 60 people have died and dozens were missing Thursday in Germany and neighboring Belgium after flooding turned streets into raging torrents, sweeping away cars and causing buildings to collapse, The Associated Press reported.

We have never seen such a disaster. Its really devastating, said Malu Dreyer, governor of Rhineland-Pfalz state, which includes Spangdahlem. Although the base is not located in the hardest-hit area, several nearby villages were inundated and roads were closed due to rising waters.

The base authorized a four-hour delay Wednesday night for personnel coming to work the next day, after rainfall over 12 hours equaled the average for the entire month of July. Commenters on the air base's Facebook page posted a few images of streets and backyards full of brown water.

Base officials said about 50 members of the 52nd Civil Engineering squadron and others from the wing filled and delivered over 1,800 sandbags to the surrounding communities.

Epperson said service members delivered about 500 bags of sand at the nearby village of Niederkeil and continued filling them until the local fire chief said it was enough to stop the flooding.

Thats what teamwork is, thats what Saber Nation is, Epperson said during the ceremony. Thats why I knew Col. Hauck and the Hauck family are a perfect match, the perfect fit, not just for the Saber Nation, but for the Eifel community here.

Air Force officials said the base sustained no significant damage from the heavy rainfall. But some access roads were cut off by the water and landslides, base and local officials said.

Hauck assumed command of an F-16 wing dubbed Saber Nation, which is headquartered in rural Spangdahlem. The wing includes about 5,000 military and civilian personnel, spread across nine sites in five countries.

Hauck, a pilot with over 2,400 hours flying in F-16s, including 285 combat hours in Operation Enduring Freedom, is a 1998 graduate of the Air Force Academy. He comes to Spangdahlem from Aviano Air Base, Italy, where he commanded the 31st Operations Group.

Epperson, also an F-16 pilot, assumed command of the wing in September 2019. He is headed to the Pentagon to lead the Checkmate Division at Air Force headquarters.

Epperson praised the wing, who look out for each other in the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. And thats why we achieved the things we achieved despite the pandemic and every other thing thrown our way these past years.

Maj. Gen. Randall Reed, the 3rd Air Force commander, lauded Epperson for his work, especially his efforts setting up a site to make sure airmen were free of the coronavirus before deploying to Africa and the U.S. Central Command area of operation.

After assuming command, Hauck told his airmen: I know we are going to face trial and tribulations, but we will continue to conquer them and be 100% mission ready.

Stars and Stripes reporter Marcus Kloeckner contributed to this report.
A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon with the 115th Fighter Wing, Wisconsin Air National Guard. (Cristina J. Allen/U.S. Air National Guard)

DAYTON, Ohio (Tribune News Service)  In recent days, two related events happened in rapid succession: The State Department approved the possible $2.4 billion sale of F-16 Fighting Falcons and AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II tactical missiles to the Philippines.

And U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the U.S. will come to the Philippines' aid if China attacks its aircrafts or ships.

Brig. Gen. Brian Bruckbauer, commander of the Air Force Security Assistance and Cooperation Directorate at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, does not deny that the events are related.

"The Defense Department and the State Department work closely together when it comes to our interaction with our foreign partners," Bruckbauer said in a new interview with the Dayton Daily News. "Obviously that extends to the combatant command, as well. So in this case, it would be the INDOPACOM combatant command (the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command)."

The events illustrate how important the directorate and all of Wright-Patterson is to national security.

"It is a direct link to our national security," the one-star general said of the work at Wright-Patterson.

The Wright-Patt-based directorate works with foreign allies to help them with their security needs and that assistance can be of "mutual benefit," Bruckbauer said.

"We use a variety of tools in the toolbox, if you will, to work with partners," he said.

The directorate's workforce at Wright-Patterson and elsewhere has invested a "substantial" amount of work into the possible deal with the Philippines  advancing the transaction to this point in about 150 days.

The sale has not been approved by Congress or by the Philippines yet.

"We're waiting for that congressional approval," the commander said. "Sometimes we see these approvals come in 30 days or so. Other times, there may be an extended time these stay in Congress because they want to discuss whether this is truly in the international interest."

He declined to predict if or when Congress would approve the sale, but he said: "I expect we'll hear something shortly."

In his recent remarks, Blinken reiterated a mutual defense pact with the Philippines, warning China that an attack on Philippine armed forces in the South China Sea would trigger a 1951 U.S.-Philippines mutual defense treaty. President Donald Trump last year also rejected China's claims to resources in areas of the South China Sea.

The Philippines are not the first country to want to buy F-16s, Bruckbauer noted. These jets would be brand new block 70 F-16s. In fact, Lockheed Martin has set up a separate production line in Greenville, S.C., to produce jets for foreign allies, the general said.

"If it weren't for some of those foreign sales, our defense industrial base would take a pretty significant hit, " he said.

Asked about the possibility of future foreign military sales, he said: "Oh yeah. The pipeline is full of them."

(c)2021 the Dayton Daily News (Dayton, Ohio)

Visit the Dayton Daily News (Dayton, Ohio) at www.daytondailynews.com

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Command Sgt. Maj. Raymond Perez Quitugua Jr., Fort Rucker garrison command sergeant major, provides a tour of the barracks for Command Sgt. Maj. Todd Sims, U.S. Army Forces Command command sergeant major, during his visit to Fort Rucker , Ala., April 19, 2021. (Kelly Morris/U.S. Army)

An Alabama military base is taking increased actions to combat the ongoing prevalence of coronavirus infections, authorizing leaders to ask for proof of vaccination of service members not wearing a mask while on duty. It is the first military base in the continental United States to allow leaders to check the vaccination status of those in uniform.

The new guidance at Fort Rucker comes as the new delta variant of the virus continues to drive infection rates and now accounts for a majority of cases in the United States. The base is among facilities, including Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri, Fort Sill in Oklahoma and Fort Jackson in South Carolina, where less than half of the surrounding populations have been vaccinated.

The order issued Tuesday by Maj. Gen. David Francis, commanding general of Fort Rucker, states that unmasked uniformed personnel must be prepared to show proof of vaccination when on the base.

Due to the rising rates in the counties around us and some on Fort Rucker, were now implementing G.O. number 12, Francis said in a video posted July 12 on Fort Ruckers official Facebook page, referring to the general order issued to Fort Rucker personnel. The big difference is going to be that if you are not wearing a mask, the leadership will be able to ask you, ask soldiers, to prove that theyve been vaccinated by showing their vaccination card.

The new rule applies only to uniformed personnel, of which there are about 5,000 assigned to the base. The base, which houses the Armys aviation branch, is also home to thousands of civilian dependents and civilian employees.

Civilian employees on the base must be taken at their word unless the supervisor has good reason not to, reads the official order, issued Wednesday.

On Tuesday, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said that about 70 percent of military personnel have received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine.

Thats encouraging, but theres more work to do, and so we continue to be in the mode of encouraging troops to get vaccinated to the maximum degree, he said.

In Alabama, just 33 percent of the population is fully vaccinated and just over 40 percent has received at least one dose, which is well below the national average, according to data from The Washington Post. In Dale County, where Fort Rucker is located, the daily average for coronavirus infections is at 12 cases per day. Alabama is also among states that have enacted legislation banning vaccine passports or requiring immunization to receive government services.

This measure is very important so that we can nip this in the bud, Francis said in his statement.

While the Pentagon has issued overall guidance for maintaining readiness and personnel safety since the start of the pandemic, which has included recommendations for unvaccinated personnel to continue wearing masks when required, there have been no orders issued to enforce checking vaccination status. Individual commanders, however, have been allowed to issue their own guidance.

In South Korea, the commander of U.S. forces on the peninsula issued an order last week requiring all affiliated personnel to wear masks while on U.S. installations, and placed bars and nightclubs off limits.

While we have achieved more than 80 percent vaccination rate, we are witnessing small clusters of the virus spread within select locations, Gen. Paul J. LaCamera, the U.S. commander, said in a statement. To protect our communities and our mission, we are implementing an immediate, aggressive approach to preventing the virus spread any further.

South Korea reported 1,316 new cases of the coronavirus Friday, a sharp increase during the latest wave of the virus in that country.

As in other coronavirus hot spots around the United States, the majority of infections in Alabama are from the delta variant of the virus.

While Kirby stated on Tuesday that Pentagon is watching [the variant] with concern, there have been no official policy changes for military personnel.

At a briefing on June 30, acting assistant secretary of defense for health affairs Terry Adirim said the Defense Department is particularly concerned with the impact of the delta variant on our unvaccinated or partially vaccinated population and its potential spread at installations that are located in parts of the country with low vaccination rates.

Lt. Gen. Ronald J. Place, director of the Defense Health Agency, said June 30 that vaccination is just one of the factors that the local commander would take into consideration. Whats the positivity rate? Whats the total numbers? Whats the vaccination rate in that community versus that . . . on the installation? Its a multifactorial decision.

Vaccination against the coronavirus remains voluntary for all military personnel and Defense Department employees while the vaccines await full approval by the Food and Drug Administration.
A U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter takes off from the Babadag Training Area, Romania, in May 2021. A Black Hawk was forced to make an emergency landing on a Bucharest street July 15, 2021, after experiencing a mechanical problem, Army officials in Europe and local officials said. (Randis Monroe/U.S. Army)

A U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter made an emergency landing on a Bucharest street Thursday after experiencing a mechanical problem, Army officials in Europe and local police said.

No injuries were reported in connection with the incident, which involved a Black Hawk belonging to the 3rd Battalion, 1st Aviation Regiment, 1st Combat Aviation Brigade.

The precautionary landing took place at Charles de Gaulle Square in Bucharest, where the aircraft was conducting rehearsals for Romanian Air Force Day, U.S. Army Europe and Africa said in a statement.

Servicemen walk by a U.S military Black Hawk helicopter following an emergency landing on a busy boulevard in Bucharest, Romania, Thursday, July 15, 2021. A U.S military Black Hawk helicopter that took part in preparations for Romanian Aviation day, which is set to take place on July 20, was forced to land on a busy Bucharest boulevard Thursday morning, damaging two cars after knocking down two lampposts. No casualties were reported. (Andreea Alexandru/AP) A U.S serviceman inspects the blades of an U.S military Black Hawk helicopter following an emergency landing on a busy boulevard in Bucharest, Romania, Thursday, July 15, 2021. (Andreea Alexandru/AP)

The helicopter signaled it was having technical difficulties, traffic police told the Reuters news agency.

Due to the expertise of the crew, and the Romanian police officers on the ground, the helicopter landed safely, USAREUR-AF said.

The site has been secured by police and the aircraft moved to the side of the road. The U.S. is coordinating with the Romanian air force and other authorities to remove the helicopter.

A joint Romanian and U.S. investigation is underway, the Army said.

The Black Hawk unit is forward deployed from Illesheim, Germany, as part of the ongoing Atlantic Resolve campaign focused on deterring possible Russian aggression along NATOs eastern flank.
EAST LYME, Conn. (Tribune News Service)  National Guard officer candidates have been fighting the heat, humidity and affronts to their physical endurance since arriving in East Lyme last Friday for the 67th Officer Candidate School at Camp Nett and Stones Ranch Military Reservation.

"Bang, bang, bang! Bang, bang, bang!"

Candidates with fake rifles improvised the sound of gunfire as they participated in tactical combat casualty care training Wednesday at Stones Ranch. Groups of three students  composed of one "buddy team" and a casualty  went through the seven-step process for moving a wounded soldier to cover amid open fire.

The buddy team returned fire, determined the casualty was alive, approached the wounded using the most direct route and applied a tourniquet "high and tight." They used a cradle drag  which involves holding the casualty under the armpits and dragging the person backward  to move behind cover, where they could check the tourniquet again.

Connecticut National Guard Spokesman Maj. Mike Petersen said 16 of this year's 117 candidates are from Connecticut. The rest hail from the rest of the Northeast, plus Ohio, North Carolina and California.

Officer candidate Rhecia Llewellyn of Windsor was one of 25 women going for a commission, and one of three women from Connecticut.

"We're exhausted," she told reporters under the shade of an empty shell of a building on the facility's mock urban terrain site. "But the program's meant to do that. So, it's a part of the training."

No stranger to service, Llewellyn served previously as a sergeant 1st class with the National Guard.

"I decided there's more I can offer and there's more the military can offer me, so I figured I'd go further and switch over to the officer side," she said.

Hannah Tyler of Somers said she wants to develop leadership skills that will benefit her civilian life  and to add a greater sense of purpose. The 22 year old is currently in the market research field.

"I mean, my job is a little bit mundane, so this makes it a little bit more meaningful," she said.

Christopher Valente of Cromwell is a member of the Connecticut State Police in the Troop F barracks in Westbrook. He said he's hopeful that experience and training as an officer in the National Guard will help him earn promotions at work.

"It's been physically demanding, mentally demanding," he said of the Officer Candidate School so far. "And I know at the end of the two weeks, I'll already be able to increase my performance on the law enforcement side."

Petersen said the Officer Candidate School follows the same "one weekend a month, two weeks a year" framework that guides the state-level military force and the Army Reserves.

"For our candidates, this is their two weeks a year, essentially," he said. The two weeks will be followed by 11 months of training  one weekend per month  before culminating with another two-week session.

"At the end of that, if they meet the requirements and prerequisites, they are commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserve or their state's National Guard," he said.

There were eight fewer people participating in the exercise on Wednesday than there were when 117 candidates arrived last week, according to Petersen. He said the candidates dropped out for a variety of reasons but he would not specify.

Early Monday morning, six people were taken to the hospital after experiencing symptoms related to dehydration and overexertion during a 6-mile ruck march, according to Petersen. He said two were released from the hospital the first day. As of Wednesday, all but one had been released.

Connecticut National Guard Maj. Dan Sands said "a handful" of the candidates who had been hospitalized were back in training on Wednesday.

Petersen said the candidates were "giving it their all" on the challenging ruck march over strenuous terrain.

"When you're in a course like this, or any military course, it's not bound to happen, but it's always a possibility," he said. "You need to make sure you're keeping care of yourself, so we always encourage all of our students to drink water and make sure they're relaying any concerns to our medical personnel."

He would not say whether it was unusual at Stones Ranch for six officer candidates to be hospitalized during a single training.

Llewellyn, the candidate from Windsor, described the ruck march as the most difficult part of the training so far.

"It's a very rigorous course. It's very hilly. The terrain is not the greatest," she said. "But it's meant to challenge you. So just push through and keep going."

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Buy Photo Backed by other family members and attorney Natalie Khawam, right, Spc. Vanessa Guillen's sister, Lupe, speaks at a news conference marking the first anniversary of the Fort Hood soldier's killimg, April 22, 2021 at the Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C. (Stars and Stripes)

AUSTIN, Texas (Tribune News Service)  The family of slain U.S. Army Spc. Vanessa Guillen learned this week that among more than a dozen Fort Hood soldiers accused of wrongdoing in her case, none has been removed from the military.

Army Gen. John Michael Murray, commanding general for Army Futures Command, met with the Guillen family Tuesday to discuss the results of the completed administrative homicide investigation, which is separate from the criminal investigation thats still active.

Attorney Natalie Khawam, who started representing the Guillen family shortly after they reported Vanessa missing on April 22, 2020, praised Murray for his transparency and said he seemed genuine about pursuing justice for the family.

First Lieutenant Spencer Daulisa pays his respects to a memorial of Spc. Vanessa Guillen outside of Fort Hood military base in Killeen on Thursday, July 24, 2020.

However, she and the Guillens told Murray they were still concerned about the lack of accountability for those accused of sexually harassing Vanessa or failing to properly investigate her death.

Its unfair to watch perpetrators and wrongdoers continue to sit and exist in the Army system because all you are doing is moving them from one base to another, Khawam said. Thats not fixing the problem. Thats just allowing someone to get away in the loopholes of the system.

Army leaders in late April confirmed for the first time that Guillen was sexually harassed and subjected to retaliation at Fort Hood, as her family had consistently alleged since her disappearance.

Authorities suspect another Fort Hood soldier, Spc. Aaron Robinson, beat Guillen to death with a hammer in an armory room on post the morning of April 22, 2020. Robinson fatally shot himself July 1 as authorities sought to question him, according to Killeen police.

Before Guillens remains were discovered at the end of June, her family led protests outside Fort Hood demanding more answers about the search for Vanessa. Guillens mother, Gloria, revealed that her daughter had confided to her that multiple soldiers had been sexually harassing her on post. One of the soldiers Guillen said was harassing her was Robinson, according to the family.

For some reason, the Army continues to say that Aaron Robinson did not sexually harass Vanessa, Khawam said. When, it fact nobody knows what happened in that armory room. So, how do you speak about something that happened when you werent there?

The Guillen family requested on Tuesday for the investigative summary to say that while no evidence proves Guillen was sexually harassed or assaulted by Robinson, its a possibility. Robinson had a confirmed history of sexually harassing other soldiers on post, Khawam was told by military leaders.

Khawam on Tuesday said Murray was open to their suggestions, which also included a recommendation to court-martial a non-commissioned officer accused of sexually harassing Guillen in the months before her death.

But officials have declined to identify the non-commissioned officer or discuss what consequences they might face.

Army officials also announced back in December that 14 military members were fired or suspended as a result of a separate investigation into how Fort Hood leaders handled the months-long search for Guillen and how they communicated with her family.

A final report from that investigation described how Fort Hood leaders created a toxic environment that allowed for a culture of crimes like sexual violence to happen frequently on post.

One of those punished was former Fort Hood Maj. Gen. Scott Efflandt, who was removed from his position at the Central Texas post. He was also denied his previously scheduled promotion and moved to another installation.

However, Army officials have refused to publicly identify the majority of the military service members who were accused of crimes or wrongdoings related to Guillens death, nor have they provided updates about what punishments they received or their current standings in the military.

Cecily Aguilar was arrested on July 1, 2020, in Bell County, Texas. An attorney has said that shes the girlfriend of Aaron Robinson, the soldier who killed himself when officials approached him about Vanessa Guillens disappearance.

Nobody has been completely removed from the Army, Khawam said. They have been relieved of their command, but theyre still collecting a paycheck. So, us taxpayers are still paying for these perverts and problems to be in the system.

She said the system does not have room for bad apples.

When you commit a crime you should be relieved, she continued. You should not be allowed to stay in a system just because youre older or richer or have more seniority. Seniority has no place in the legal system. The legal system is about justice.

Lupe Guillen, then 16-year-old sister of Spc. Vanessa Guillen cries during a protest demanding Fort Hood leaders do more to find the soldier who, at the time, was still missing.

Hours after the Guillens meeting with Murray, Cecily Aguilar, a Killeen woman accused of helping to conceal Vanessas death, received eight new charges against her by a grand jury.

Aguilar now has an 11-count indictment against her in which authorities say she helped Robinson, her boyfriend, dismember Guillens body and dispose of her remains near the Leon River in Bell County and deleting evidence online.

Khawam said the family now expects a court date for Aguilar to be set sometime next week.



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Kat Bouza
Buy Photo People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals protested outside the embassy of Thailand in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, June 3, 2021. The animal-rights group wants the U.S. military to stop the practice of killing king cobras during the military exercise Cobra Gold in Thailand. (Caitlin Doornbos/Stars and Stripes)

WASHINGTON  An animal-rights group submitted a formal complaint Thursday to the Navys inspector general protesting the tradition of killing animals and drinking snake blood as part of the multinational Cobra Gold military exercise in Thailand.

Its the latest effort by the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals to end the ritualistic killing and consumption of animals in the annual exercise co-hosted by the U.S. and Thailand, according to a statement by the group issued Thursday.

PETA is calling on the Office of the Naval Inspector General to end the use of animals in this gruesome frat party-like event and reprimand any senior officer who orders Marines to throw decency aside in favor of bloodlust, PETA veterinarian and Air Force veteran Ingrid Taylor said in the statement. The Marine Corps reputation takes a hit every time someone shows a photo of a Marine sucking down cobra blood.

The exercise involves the Army and Marine Corps, but only Marines were seen drinking cobra blood in photos from the 2020 Cobra Gold exercise that inspired PETAs protests.

A Marine drinks cobra blood during Cobra Gold jungle survival training in Sattahip, Chonburi province, Thailand, Feb. 19, 2018. (Micaiah Anthony/U.S. Marine Corp)

The blood-drinking tradition is part of the jungle-survival training during which Thai instructors share their knowledge of life-sustaining sources of food and hydration, the Army said in a statement issued March 2, 2020. Cobra blood can be used as an alternative way to stay hydrated in areas without clean water sources, according to the training.

But PETA called the survival drills an annual frat-like party masquerading as training and said the animal slaying violates military law.

During Cobra Gold 2020, U.S. Marines and instructors were recorded killing chickens with their bare hands, skinning and eating live geckos, consuming live scorpions and tarantulas, decapitating cobras and drinking their blood, PETA said. Since these acts would violate U.S. cruelty-to-animals laws, they bring discredit upon the armed forces and senior commissioned officers who order troops to engage in them have participated in conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman.

The complaint comes after PETA has made a series of protests against the practice. The group has sent letters to Marine Corps Commandant Gen. David Berger and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and held public protests in June in front of the Thai Embassy in Washington, D.C., and outside Austins Virginia home.

Austins office responded last month to PETAs concerns by saying the Pentagon would continue to ensure we are employing best practices for the humane treatment of animals while accomplishing the need to prepare and train our service members for survival in any and all situations.

Cobra Gold is the largest joint military exercise in Southeast Asia and includes training in disaster response, humanitarian assistance and jungle survival, according to the Army.
Buy Photo Rear Adm. Brian Fort speaks after handing command of U.S. Naval Forces Japan and Navy Region Japan to Rear Adm. Carl Lahti, far left, at Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan, Wednesday, July 14, 2021. (Daniel Betancourt/Stars and Stripes)

YOKOSUKA NAVAL BASE, Japan  Rear Adm. Brian Fort closed out 32 years in the Navy this week by handing over his last command to an experienced submariner who recently arrived from Washington, D.C.

Fort transferred the dual-hat responsibility for U.S. Naval Forces Japan and Navy Region Japan to Rear Adm. Carl Lahti, most recently the commandant of Naval District Washington. The command exerts both operational and administrative control over all Navy personnel and installations in the country.

The Wednesday ceremony at the naval bases Fleet Theater featured accolades on Forts behalf. He presided over the Navy response to the coronavirus pandemic in Japan, which in spring 2020 meant a three-month lockdown at Yokosuka, the Navys headquarters south of Tokyo and homeport of the 7th Fleet.

I think it's only fitting that over [my wife and Is] 32 years of service together we have called the Pacific our home for five tours of duty, Fort said during the ceremony. And I can't think of a better place to conclude our service than our current home-away-from-home: Japan.

The commander of U.S. Forces Japan, Air Force Lt. Gen. Kevin Schneider, congratulated Fort for his many years of service and his numerous accomplishments. Fort received the Order of the Rising Sun, gold and silver, from the Japanese government July 1 in recognition of his service.

Brians achievements as commander of U.S. Navy Forces Japan/Navy Region Japan are just one example of his many successes over a 32-year military career which has been nothing short of fantastic, Schneider said at the ceremony. He has been a tremendous sailor, he has been a leader, he has been a trainer, and he has a been a mentor who created an environment where his subordinates could achieve their potential.

Schneider highlighted Forts role during the pandemic, saying that the numbers speak for themselves. Better than 80% of U.S. Navy forces in Japan are fully vaccinated, Fort said later.

Since February, we have averaged single-digit cases of COVID on any given week, Fort said. Ninety-nine percent of those were [unvaccinated] at the time. Today, we are tracking three positive cases  that is what real teamwork is all about, and I know the entire team is proud.

Buy Photo Rear Adm. Carl Lahti speaks after taking the helm of U.S. Naval Forces Japan and Navy Region Japan at Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan, Wednesday, July 14, 2021. He is flanked by the outgoing commander, Rear Adm. Brian Fort, and Air Force Lt. Gen. Kevin Schneider, commander of U.S. Forces Japan. (Daniel Betancourt/Stars and Stripes) Buy Photo The commander of U.S. Forces Japan, Air Force Lt. Gen. Kevin Schneider, left, presides over a change-of-command ceremony for U.S. Naval Forces Japan and Navy Region Japan at Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan, Wednesday, July 14, 2021. (Daniel Betancourt/Stars and Stripes)

Lahti, in addition to his tenure in Washington, D.C., has served as a submariner and also commanded the ballistic-missile submarine USS Nebraska, stationed at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor in Washington state, according to his Navy biography.

Originally from Buffalo, N.Y., Lahti holds a bachelors degree in systems engineering from the U.S. Naval Academy, a masters in electrical engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School and a masters in national security and strategic studies from the Naval War College.

Lahti thanked Fort for his service and pledged to continue to maintain and foster the strong relationships that Fort created.

For the U.S. Naval Forces Japan and Naval Region Japan teams, our missions are clear: enable the 7th Fleet, enhance and strengthen the U.S.-Japan alliance and serve as the naval component to U.S. Forces Japan, he said. We will do this by working together as a team and putting people first, creating a positive command climate and culture where everyone can contribute to mission accomplishment.

Lahti told reporters after the ceremony he plans to continue all coronavirus mitigation polices that Fort put into place.

Well be partnering with our Japanese counterparts until such a time as we move beyond this pandemic, Lahti said.

After the ceremony, Fort said he expects the vaccination rate of Japanese nationals to eventually match the percentage of U.S. personnel.

I think it says a lot about our relationship with Japan and the culture of the organizations to be able to get the point where were working with the U.S. [Food and Drug Administration] and the government of Japan to be able to vaccinate our master labor contract workforce, Fort said.
A COVID-19 public health order sign for social distancing on Bondi Beach in Sydney on July 4, 2021. (Brendon Thorne/Bloomberg)

Just a few months ago, Australia's virtually COVID-free status made it the envy of the world. Then the delta variant flipped the script.

After about half a year of relatively normal daily life, Australia's biggest city is now in the third week of a strict lockdown that on Wednesday was extended until at least July 30. Sydney's normally bustling central business district is all but deserted, schools are closed and households are forbidden from mixing for fear of further spread among the 6 million population.

Even as the U.S. and U.K. reopen, Australia seems to be stuck in place. And it's all for a daily caseload a third the size of New York's and less than 3% of what London is currently encountering. About 900 cases have been recorded in Sydney since an un-vaccinated chauffeur was infected while transporting airline crew last month. New South Wales state recorded 65 new infections on Thursday, with a higher number expected on Friday.

Arguably the most devoted adherent of the "COVID Zero" strategy followed by a few Asia-Pacific economies, Australia has limited the pandemic's health impacts with strict quarantines, snap lockdowns and a closed-border policy that even bans citizens from leaving.

But a slow vaccine rollout has left the country exposed to outbreaks as newer, more virulent strains slip through border curbs.

Like other COVID Zero economies from Singapore to Taiwan, Australia is finding its elimination strategy increasingly difficult to maintain. And the government's early successes against COVID meant it was slower than other nations in securing and rolling out what looks to be the only real, long-term solution to the pandemic: vaccinations.

People wait in line to register at a COVID-19 vaccination center set up at the Royal Melbourne Exhibition Centre in Melbourne, Australia, on June 8, 2021. (Carla Gottgens/Bloomberg)

Back in March, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said of the vaccine rollout: "It's not a race." Now he's increasingly being criticized by health experts and political rivals for failing to quickly secure enough vaccines from a wide range of drug-makers as the country's rollout lags behind those of other major economies.

"The government drank their own Kool-Aid and thought that they had the answers, when other comparable countries spread the risks by backing many options," said Bill Bowtell, an adjunct professor in infection and immunity at the University of New South Wales.

"Morrison boasted about Australia's COVID-zero status, but did nothing effective or in time about vaccination or quarantine before delta hit," he added. "Nature creates viruses; bad politics prolong pandemics."

Australia has administered enough doses for 18% of its population, according to the Bloomberg Vaccine Tracker, compared with 52% in the U.S. and 61% in the U.K. The AstraZeneca inoculation has comprised the bulk of the nation's rollout so far  it is one of two options available to Australians  but mixed messaging over giving the jab to under-40s has caused some vaccine hesitancy, a problem faced by other COVID Zero economies too.

Morrison's critics also point to failures in the quarantine system, which requires returning residents to isolate in a hotel room for two weeks after re-entering the country. About 20 community cases this year can be traced back to hotel quarantine breaches, according to one measure  a significant rise in the number of "leaks" compared to last year.

Sydney's lockdown is likely to drag on for weeks and could trigger an economic contraction for the country in the short term, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia said Wednesday. Australians outside of Sydney are nervous they will be next: Last year the city of Melbourne spent three months in one of the world's longest and harshest lockdowns, which successfully stamped out infections but at significant economic cost.

The state of Victoria, which includes Melbourne, confirmed 10 new locally acquired cases on Thursday. The escalation of the outbreak has led to additional restrictions including stricter mask rules, while Western Australia state has reintroduced a hard border to keep out residents of the city.

"Australians are constantly on tenterhooks worrying that an outbreak is going to force their lives into these huge disruptions," said Marion Maddox, an honorary professor of politics at Macquarie University.

"We had this aura of everything being under control," she said. "But now we've earned a reputation of being ill-prepared to vaccinate our people, who are becoming more frustrated."

The contrast with the U.S. and Europe is stark. Those places are reopening their economies despite thousands of new infections every week. While the risk of fresh outbreaks is inevitably heightened, with about 40% of the EU population fully vaccinated many nations are deciding it is time to "live with the virus," as one French minister put it.

Australia remains among the top 10 places to be during the pandemic according to Bloomberg's latest COVID Resilience Ranking, but has fallen four places due to its inability to loosen border restrictions.

The prime minister has defended his government's vaccine strategy, saying an accelerated rollout puts it on track to provide enough jabs for all Australians who want them by the end of the year.

Still, he's yet to offer a timeline for reopening, or to indicate how many Australians will need to be vaccinated before that can happen. With elections due by May, the conservative government now narrowly trails the main Labor opposition in one major poll, and Morrison's personal popularity has slumped.

Governments such as Australia's need to start better explaining how to live with COVID once a vaccine threshold is reached, said Ben Cowling, head of the University of Hong Kong's department of epidemiology and biostatistics.

"It's the kind of infection that will continue to circulate around the world," Cowling said.

While opening up will "scare some people," Morrison's government will need to outline the advantages of "not having to worry about having lockdowns of cities, all of the social-distancing measures and, of course, quarantine."

Bloomberg's Dong Lyu, Matthew Burgess, Georgina Mckay and Michael Heath contributed to this report.
Buy Photo A depiction of Lucifer trapped in ice in the center of the lowest level of hell is one of 34 stringed instruments making up an art exhibit in Vicenza, Italy based on Dante's "Divine Comedy." "Infernus" runs through Aug. 31. (Nancy Montgomery/Stars and Stripes)

One cello and 33 violins, all heavily inked with signs, symbols and images illustrating a famous epic poem about a terrifying adventure in hell, are on display this summer in the cool, vast hall of the Palladian Basilica.

The exhibition Infernus, by young Vicenza-born artist Leonardo Frigo, is the first pandemic post-lockdown art exhibition in the basilica, Vicenzas most famous building, in more than a year. It maps out in ink and text the 34 cantos or sections of Inferno, the first part of Dante Alighieris famous 14th-century epic poem the Divine Comedy. It runs through Aug. 31.

Dante, you may recall from English class, explored in his poem the nine concentric circles of torment in hell suffered by a variety of sinners, including murderers, hypocrites, seducers, gluttons, opportunists, fraudsters and the faithless, among others. Hes accompanied on his journey by the ancient Roman poet Virgil; the two were clued in to what awaited them as early as the third canto when they read the inscription on hells gate: Abandon all hope, ye who enter here, it said.

This does not apply to exhibition goers. Although 34 musical instruments covered front and back in graffiti-like markings, along with 34 explanatory signs in Italian and English, do make for a lot of reading.

Buy Photo Vicenza-born artist Leonardo Frigo painted 33 violins and one cello with scenes from Dante's epic poem the "Divine Comedy" for the first exhibition at the Palladian Basilica since the pandemic-forced lockdown more than a year ago. The exhibit runs through Aug. 31. (Nancy Montgomery/Stars and Stripes) Buy Photo Snakes in hell are shown on one of 33 violins painted with scenes from the great medieval Italian poet Dante's Divine Comedy. The exhibit is at the Palladian Basilica in Vicenza, Italy through Aug. 31. (Nancy Montgomery/Stars and Stripes)

But the sight of the beautiful instruments lined up in the huge, domed hall dating to the 1500s is stunning, and the meticulously painted images are interesting. The explanatory text provides a lively exposition of medieval demonology and theology, and highlights Dantes beautiful language.

One surprise is that at the center of hell in its lowest level, Lucifer, formerly Gods fairest angel condemned for his treacherous rebellion, has become a giant beast with three faces trapped waist-deep in ice, not fire.

It took Frigo five years to paint the violins and cello. Hes been painting stringed instruments for nearly a decade, according to the exhibit curation, combining art, literature and music in a single object, one that winks at tattoo and street art.

Buy Photo Included in the art exhibit "Infernus" at the Palladian Basilica inspired by Dante's "Divine Comedy" is a portrait of Dante. He is widely considered the greatest Italian writer, with the "Divine Comedy" his masterpiece. Still, he was forced out of Florence in a political dispute and died in Ravenna in 1321. (Nancy Montgomery/Stars and Stripes)

The exhibition comes in the year marking the 700th anniversary of the death of Dante, widely considered Italys greatest writer.

I want this project to represent a sign of true rebirth and a push towards the future: an emotional journey that helps us to see the stars again, Frigo told La Milano. He was referring to the last line in Dantes Inferno, when he and Virgil push up from hell through a tunnel: Where we came forth and once more saw the stars.

Buy Photo The vast hall in the Palladian Basilica shows an exhibit based on a medieval epic poem, July 6, 2021 in Vicenza, Italy. The exhibition, which runs through Aug. 31, is also expected to appeal to people interested in tattoo and street art. (Nancy Montgomery/Stars and Stripes) Buy Photo The Palladian Basilica, designed by Renaissance architect Andreas Palladio, whose works inspired Thomas Jefferson, recently reopened after pandemic lockdowns in Italy lasting more than a year. It opened with an art exhibit commemorating the 700th anniversary of the poet Dante's death. (Nancy Montgomery/Stars and Stripes) Buy Photo The Palladian Basilica, designed by Renaissance architect Andreas Palladio, whose works inspired Thomas Jefferson, just recently reopened after pandemic lockdowns in Italy lasting more than a year. A Vicenza landmark, it opened with an art exhibit commemorating the 700th anniversary of the poet Dante's death. (Nancy Montgomery/Stars and Stripes)

Address: Palladian Basilica, Piazza dei Signori, 36100 Vicenza VI

Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday

Admission: 5 euros; 2 euros for Vicenza residents (with ID card); free for under 18.

Information: Online: infernus2021.com; facebook.com/IViolinidInfernus; Phone (+39) 0444 964380.
Haitis Police Director General Leon Charles denied a report from Caracol news, a Colombian-based private TV station, that interim Prime Minister Claude Joseph was the mastermind behind the July 7th assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise. (Matias Delacroix/AP)

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti  Authorities in Haiti on Thursday forcefully pushed back against reports that current government officials were involved in the killing of Haitian President Jovenel Moise, calling them a lie.

Leon Charles, head of Haitis National Police, denied a report from Caracol news, a Colombian-based private TV station, that claimed interim Prime Minister Claude Joseph was the mastermind of the July 7 killing.

The police warns of all propaganda creating a diversion, he said, adding that the government has no evidence to support those claims.

Haitian authorities have otherwise not been very forthcoming with information about who might have been behind the killing, suggesting that media reports implicating current officials had struck a nerve in the government.

In Colombia, Gen. Jorge Luis Vargas, the head of that countrys national police force, told reporters that he had no information suggesting Joseph had any role in the plot.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden said Thursday that he will send U.S. Marines to bolster security at its embassy in Haiti but that deploying American troops to stabilize the country is not on the agenda.

Haitis interim government last week asked the U.S. and the United Nations to deploy troops to protect key infrastructure following the assassination. Biden had signaled he was not open to the request, which comes as he is drawing down U.S. forces in Afghanistan this summer.

Mathias Pierre, Haitis elections minister, told The Associated Press that he believes the request for U.S. troops is relevant given what he called a fragile situation and the need to create a secure environment for elections scheduled to happen in 120 days.

He also said the words not on the agenda leave the option open.

This is not a closed door. The evolution of the situation will determine the outcome, Pierre said. In the meantime, the government is doing everything we can to stabilize the country, return to a normal environment and organize elections while trying to come to a political agreement with most political parties.

Charles, the police chief, said the head of Moises security detail, Dimitri Herard, had been removed from his post and placed in isolated detention after officials interrogated him. Police had announced his detention in recent days. Charles said authorities will meet with him a third time before deciding the next steps.

Herard has not officially been named as a suspect in the investigation, but many Haitians have questioned how attackers could have invaded the presidents house and killed him with no injuries among those assigned to protect him.

The press conference was held a day after the Colombian TV station aired a report it said was based on information from FBI sources and Haitian authorities as well as telephone calls, pictures and testimony from those accused of participating in the plot.

Im issuing a formal denial to these allegations, Charles said, calling them a lie.

Joseph, the interim prime minister, was about to be replaced when the assassination occurred. Moise had named him to the post in April following the resignation of Joseph Jouthe, who held the post for just over a year.

Two days before the assassination, Moise announced that he had chosen a new prime minister, neurosurgeon Ariel Henry. But the new prime minister had not yet been sworn into office as of July 7, and Joseph has insisted he is in charge of the government, a claim that has been recognized by the U.S. and others.

Charles said police have arrested 23 people in the killing, including 18 former Colombian soldiers, three Haitians and two Haitian-Americans. Police also have issued seven arrest warrants, searched 10 buildings, conducted 27 interrogations and placed four high-ranking police officers in isolation, he said.

He added that the investigation has benefited from the help of the FBI and foreign countries that he did not name.

On Thursday, a group of FBI agents gathered at Moises private home and met with other officials as they entered and exited the compound under the gaze of curious onlookers while Haitian police officers walked to their vehicles with bags containing unknown items.

Eight FBI agents are on the ground in Haiti helping with the probe, said to a senior Biden administration official, who agreed to give the information only if not quoted by name because he was not authorized to comment publicly. In addition, officials from the Justice Departments criminal and national security divisions, the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. attorneys office for the southern district of Florida are working with Haitian national police.

The U.S. law enforcement officials are focused on tracing the origin of weapons used in the attack, investigating any possible U.S. link to the killing and looking into potential charges that could be filed against anyone involved in the United States.

He added that a U.S. delegation that arrived in Haiti on Sunday visited the airport and seaport in Port-au-Prince and discussed additional training and equipment that could be provided to secure that critical infrastructure.

The official noted international fatigue for Haiti, adding that U.S. officials said they made clear to the competing Haitian factions that building a coalition government would go far to reenergize support in the international community.

Meanwhile, the Pentagon issued a statement saying that a small number of the Colombian suspects had received U.S. military training and education programs while serving in the Colombian military. It said it had no additional details to offer pending a review that is still in progress.

The U.S. has provided substantial support to the Colombian military over the years and has trained many of its forces.

On Thursday, Colombian President Ivan Duque told private radio station La FM that only a small group of the former Colombian soldiers linked to the killing knew it was going to be a criminal operation. He said the others were duped and thought they would be traveling for a mission to provide protection.

Once they were over there, the information they were given changed, Duque said, adding that they ended up involved in these unfortunate events.

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Madhani reported from Chicago. Associated Press writers Astrid Suarez in Bucaramanga, Colombia; and Zeke Miller and Robert Burns in Washington contributed to this report.
Sgt. Amro Elgeziry takes aim during the 2018 Modern Pentathlon World Cup in Los Angeles. (Nathaniel Garcia/U.S. Army)

TOKYO  A pair of soldiers hope to bring modern pentathlon gold medals home to Colorado after this months Summer Olympics.

Sgt. Samantha Schultz, 29, a truck driver from Littleton, Colo., and Sgt. Amro Elgeziry, a supply specialist from nearby Colorado Springs, will represent the United States in an event that attracts many soldier-athletes.

Americas most famous modern pentathlete was Gen. George S. Patton, who participated in the sport as a junior officer during the 1912 Olympics in Stockholm. Patton, who placed fifth at those games, went on to lead the 3rd and 7th U.S. Armies to victory in Europe during World War II.

Modern pentathlon has its roots in an ancient Greek contest that involved running, jumping, spear and discus throwing and wrestling. The athletes score points based on their skills in fencing, horse riding and swimming before a combined shooting and running event that involves firing at targets and racing around a track nearly two miles long.

Sgt. Samantha Schultz begins the equestrian course on a randomly drawn horse during the 2018 Modern Pentathlon World Cup in Los Angeles. (Nathaniel Garcia/U.S. Army) Sgt. Amro Elgeziry prepares for the mixed relay fencing event at the 2018 Modern Pentathlon World Cup in Los Angeles. (Nathaniel Garcia/U.S. Army)

The sport requires the sort of skills a soldier might need to deliver a message across the battlefield, said Schultz, who has been competing since 2010.

For Schultz, modern pentathlon was a path to military service.

There are a lot of countries that have a really strong military presence in the sport, she told Stars and Stripes in a recent phone interview.

An avid hunter, skier, swimmer and horse rider as a youngster, Schultz found herself training for the sport alongside soldiers from the Armys World Class Athlete Program at Fort Carson, Colo., in 2011.

They all have this demeanor to them, she said of her of those participating in the program. The way they carry themselves and the pride they feel being soldier-athletes  being able to train with them was a huge honor.

Schultz went to basic training at Fort Jackson, S.C., and advanced individual skills training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., where she learned to drive large military vehicles such as the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck.

I grew up hunting with my dad, so I drove a Ford truck, she said. But I had never done anything of that magnitude.

Also a member of the World Class Athlete Program, Elgeziry, 33, is headed to his fourth straight Olympic Games. He competed for Egypt at the 2008, 2012 and 2016 Olympics before coming to America and joining the Army in 2017.

Schultz said her goal in Tokyo is to bring home a medal and make her Army buddies, friends and family proud.

As an athlete you can feel very isolated, but the Army has provided me with camaraderie, she said. Im so grateful theyre going to be having the Olympics and I get to opportunity to compete.
Buy Photo Tokyo reported Thursday, July 15, 2021, that another 1,308 people had contracted COVID-19, its highest one-day count of new patients since January. (Akifumi Ishikawa/Stars and Stripes)

TOKYO  Japans capital city on Thursday reported another 1,308 people had contracted COVID-19, its highest one-day count of new patients since January, according to public broadcaster NHK and metro government data.

A fourth wave of the coronavirus respiratory disease appears to be reaching a peak just as Tokyo begins to welcome athletes from around the globe for the Olympic Games. The opening ceremony is scheduled July 23, a year late, in a stadium to be devoid of spectators, further consequences of the 1 -year-long pandemic.

The city during its worst phase of the pandemic reported 1,485 new cases on Jan. 21, according to metro government data. Tokyos single busiest day for new COVID-19 patients came Jan. 7, when it reported 2,520 new cases.

U.S. military installations in Japan and South Korea reported 35 new coronavirus cases as of 6 p.m. Thursday.

In Japan, Naval Air Facility Atsugi, southeast of Tokyo, announced on its Facebook page Thursday that two people tested positive after developing COVID-19 symptoms.

Sasebo Naval Base on Kyushu Island reported one individual tested positive Wednesday after developing symptoms, according to its Facebook page.

Kadena Air Base on Okinawa reported 11 new coronavirus patients in a Facebook post Wednesday evening.

Buy Photo During its worst phase of the pandemic, Tokyo reported 1,485 new coronavirus cases on Jan. 21, 2021, according to metro government data. (Akifumi Ishikawa/Stars and Stripes)

Nine had fallen ill before testing positive; another came up positive while still in restricted movement following travel outside Japan; the 11th individual was already quarantined after contact with a previously infected person, according to the base.

Kadena so far this month has reported 36 new coronavirus cases among people affiliated with the base, including a Chilis restaurant employee.

Like Tokyo, Okinawa prefecture is under a state of emergency until Aug. 22 aimed at combatting the virus spread. Although the number of new cases in Japanese communities there are falling, the number of new U.S. military cases continues to rise, according to a Facebook post Thursday by the Joint Covid-19 Response Center at the Marine Corps Camp Foster.

Another 21 cases for USFK

U.S. Forces Korea, experiencing record-setting numbers of new coronavirus cases this month, had another 21 people test positive for COVID-19 between July 8 and Tuesday, according to a Thursday news release.

Thirteen individuals first developed COVID-19 symptoms: two service members and one South Korean contractor at Camp Humphreys; two service members and a Defense Department employee at the K-16 Army airfield; three service members and two South Korean contractors at Camp Casey; one service member at Camp Carroll; and one service member at Kunsan Air Base, according to USFK.

Contact tracing between Sunday and Tuesday discovered another eight infected service members: five at Camp Casey, two at Kunsan and one at Suwon Air Base. All had direct contact with previously infected individuals, according to the release.

The 21 were quarantined at Humphreys, Osan Air Base or a South Korean facility, USFK said.

HMS Queen Elizabeth outbreak

The BBC reported late Wednesday that 100 people aboard the United Kingdom's new aircraft carrier, the HMS Queen Elizabeth, now in the Indian Ocean, had contracted the coronavirus.

The warship, which exercised with the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group and Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group on Monday, is expected to stop in Japan on its 28-week inaugural patrol. The date for that port call has not been announced.

The BBC did not cite a source in its report but quoted an unnamed Royal Navy spokeswoman who said a small number of crew from the Carrier Strike Group have tested positive for COVID-19.

Those cases would have no effect on the strike group deployment, the BBC quoted her as saying. The broadcasting service said other ships in the group were affected.

The BBC quoted U.K. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace as saying all crew had received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine and the outbreak was being managed.

The Japan Ministry of Defense had no comment Thursday. Randall Baucom, spokesman for Yokosuka Naval Base, said the base frequently supports visits from allied nations; however, it would not be prudent for us to speculate on a hypothetical scenario.
Damaged houses are seen at the Ahr river in Insul, western Germany, Thursday, July 15, 2021. (Michael Probst/AP)

BERLIN  More than 60 people have died and dozens were missing Thursday as severe flooding in Germany and Belgium turned streams and streets into raging torrents that swept away cars and caused houses to collapse.

Among those killed were nine residents of an assisted living facility for people with disabilities and two firefighters involved in rescue efforts across the region.

I grieve for those who have lost their lives in this disaster, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said during a visit to Washington, expressing shock at the scope of the flooding.

Speaking alongside U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House, Merkel said her thoughts were with all those who had lost loved ones or were still searching for them.

I fear the full extent of this tragedy will only be seen in the coming days, she said.

Biden likewise paid his condolences for the devastating loss of life and the destruction due to the flooding.

Our hearts go out to the families whove lost loved ones, he said.

Authorities said at least 30 people died in North Rhine-Westphalia state and 28 in neighboring Rhineland-Palatinate to the south. Belgian media reported eight deaths in that country.

Recent storms across parts of western Europe made rivers and reservoirs burst their banks, triggering flash floods overnight after the saturated soil couldnt absorb any more water.

Among the worst-hit German villages was Schuld, where several homes collapsed and dozens of people remained unaccounted for.

Rescue operations were hampered by blocked roads and phone and internet outages across the Eifel, a volcanic region of rolling hills and small valleys. Some villages were reduced to rubble as old brick and timber houses couldnt withstand the sudden rush of water, often carrying trees and other debris as it gushed through narrow streets.

Karl-Heinz Grimm, who had come to help his parents in Schuld, said he had never seen the small Ahr River surge in such a deadly torrent.

This night, it was like madness, he said.

Dozens of people had to be rescued from the roofs of their houses with inflatable boats and helicopters. Hundreds of soldiers were deployed to assist in the rescue efforts.

There are people dead, there are people missing, there are many who are still in danger, the governor of Rhineland-Palatinate state, Malu Dreyer, told the regional parliament. We have never seen such a disaster. Its really devastating.

A woman walks past fire trucks at a flooded street with an umbrella Duesseldorf, Germany, Wednesday, July 14, 2021. (David Young/AP) A man walks by damaged cars in a flooded street in Mery, Province of Liege, Belgium, Wednesday, July 14, 2021. A code red was issued in parts of Belgium on Wednesday as severe rains hit the area. (Valentin Bianchi/AP) Houses are submerged on the overflowed river banks in Erdorf, Germany, as the village was flooded Thursday, July 15, 2021. (Harald Tittel/AP)

The 52nd Civil Engineer squadron and several volunteers from the U.S. air base at Spangdahlem filled and distributed hundreds of sandbags to help protect homes and businesses in the area, the U.S. European Command said.

In Belgium, the Vesdre River spilled over its banks and sent water churning through the streets of Pepinster, near Liege, where a rescue operation by firefighters went wrong when a small boat capsized and three elderly people disappeared.

Unfortunately, they were quickly engulfed, said Mayor Philippe Godin. I fear they are dead.

In Verviers, the prosecutors office said several bodies had been found but could not confirm local media reports that four people were killed there.

In Liege, a city of 200,000, the Meuse River overflowed its banks Thursday and the mayor asked people living nearby to move to higher ground.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pledged to help, and Pope Francis sent condolences, with his office saying the pontiff was praying for those injured and missing, as well as those who have lost their livelihoods.

The full extent of the damage was still unclear, with many villages cut off by floods and landslides that made roads impassable. Many of the dead were only discovered after floodwaters receded.

Authorities in the Rhine-Sieg county south of Cologne ordered the evacuation of several villages below the Steinbach reservoir amid fears a dam could break.

Armin Laschet, the governor of North-Rhine Westphalia state, paid tribute to two firefighters who died and pledged swift help.

We dont know the extent of the damage yet, but we wont leave the communities, the people affected alone, he said during a visit to the city of the flood-hit city of Hagen.

Laschet, a conservative who is running to succeed Merkel as chancellor in this falls election, said the unusually heavy storms and an earlier heat wave could be linked to climate change. Political opponents have criticized Laschet, the son of a miner, for supporting the regions coal industry and hampering the expansion of wind power during his tenure.

Stefan Rahmstorf, a professor of ocean physics at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, said it was unclear whether the extreme rainfall seen in Germany was a direct result of planetary warming.

But one can state that such events are becoming more frequent due to global warming, he told The Associated Press, noting that warmer air can absorb more water vapor that eventually falls as rain.

The increase in heavy rain and decrease in days with weak rain is now also clearly seen in observational data, especially in the mid-northern latitudes, which includes Germany, Rahmstorf said.

The weakening of the summer circulation of the atmosphere, causing longer-lasting weather patterns such as heat waves or continuous rain, might also play a role, he added.

Rainfall eased later Thursday across Germany, although water levels on the Mosel and Rhine rivers were expected to continue rising.

In the Netherlands, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima visited the hard-hit Dutch town of Valkenburg on Thursday evening to support residents and emergency services. Flooding turned the main street into a torrent of brown water, inundating homes and businesses.

The Dutch government sent about 70 troops to the southern province of Limburg late Wednesday to help with evacuations and filling sandbags.

Thousands of people in the city of Maastricht and villages along the Maas River were ordered to evacuate Thursday evening amid threats of flooding, and centers were set up to house them. The Maas is the Dutch name for the Meuse River.

In northeastern France, heavy rains flooded vegetable fields, many homes and a World War I museum in Romagne-sous-Montfaucon.

The Aire River rose to its highest levels in 30 years in some areas, according to the LEst Republicain newspaper.

The equivalent of two months of rain has fallen over two days, according to the French national weather service, with flood warnings issued for 10 regions. No injuries or deaths have been reported, but forecasters warned of mudslides and more rain Friday.

__

Associated Press writers Raf Casert in Brussels; Angela Charlton in Paris; Frances DEmilio in Rome; and Mike Corder in The Hague contributed to this report.
Prosecutors in the U.S. alleged Tuesday that Iran planned to kidnap Masih Alinejad, famous for her campaign against the Islamic Republic's mandatory headscarf, or hijab, for women. (Hassan Sarbakhshian/AP)

NEW YORK (AP)  An Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Wednesday that accusations by U.S. authorities that Iran is plotting to kidnap Iranians abroad who criticize the country are "baseless and ridiculous."

The spokesperson, Saeed Khatibzadeh, was quoted by Iran's semiofficial ISNA news agency a day after U.S. federal authorities in New York announced criminal charges against four Iranian intelligence operatives.

The authorities, quoting from an indictment, say the individuals plotted to kidnap a prominent Iranian opposition activist and writer in exile from her Brooklyn residence and take her to Tehran.

Khatibzadeh derided the plot as "Hollywood-style scenarios" and "baseless and ridiculous" accusations unworthy of a response.

"Making such an imaginary story is not unlikely by the U.S. Its entire short history is full of assassination, kidnapping and sabotage in other countries," Khatibzadeh said.

Later Wednesday, White House press secretary Jen Psaki told a briefing that Iran's "actions to attempt to silence the voices of those peacefully working to address the situation both inside of Iran and outside of Iran are appalling."

"We categorically condemn Iran's dangerous and despicable reported plot to kidnap a U.S. citizen on U.S. soil," she said.

She said law enforcement actions like those announced Tuesday were part of a strategy to defend U.S. citizens and interests that includes actions taken to defend U.S. forces from Iranian-backed militant groups and diplomatic efforts to constrain Iran's nuclear program.

The indictment in Manhattan federal court described the plot as part of a wider plan to lure three individuals in Canada and a fifth person in the United Kingdom, along with individuals in the United Arab Emirates, to Iran.

The identities of the alleged victims were not released but Brooklyn-based Masih Alinejad confirmed that authorities had told her she was among the targets.

"I knew that this is the nature of the Islamic Republic, you know, kidnapping people, arresting people, torturing people, killing people. But I couldn't believe it that this is going to happen to me in United States of America," Alinejad told The Associated Press.

Alinejad, who worked for years as a journalist in Iran, long has been targeted by its theocracy after fleeing the country following its disputed 2009 presidential election and crackdown.

She is a prominent figure on Farsi-language satellite channels abroad that critically view Iran and has worked as a contractor for U.S.-funded Voice of America's Farsi-language network since 2015. She became a U.S. citizen in October 2019.
The Taliban are pressing on with their surge in Afghanistan, saying Wednesday that they seized Spin Boldaka, a strategic border crossing with Pakistan  the latest in a series of key border post to come under their control in recent weeks. (Tariq Achakzai/AP)

ISLAMABAD (AP)  A Taliban surge has put the insurgent force in control of key border posts, opened up fresh sources of revenue and rattled many of Afghanistan's neighbors.

In the Uzbek capital of Tashkent, a two-day regional meeting that begins Thursday was originally supposed to deal with "connectivity" in South and Central Asia, encouraging trade ties and transport issues. But it has morphed into a high-level gathering of senior U.S., Russian and EU officials that most certainly will be consumed with Afghanistan and the impact of the rapidly advancing Taliban.

In recent weeks, the Taliban have gained control of key border posts with neighbors Iran, Pakistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

In many instances, Afghanistan's security forces and military have put up little to no resistance, after often being left without resupplies or reinforcements. Two weeks ago, more than 1,000 Afghan military men fled across the border into Tajikistan. The Taliban did not pursue them.

The Taliban have also issued statements, including from their senior leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, who negotiated last year's deal with the U.S., assuring Afghanistan's neighbors they have nothing to fear from the insurgent movement.

The Taliban surge comes as the U.S. and NATO all but wind up their nearly 20 years in Afghanistan. Earlier this week, the U.S. Central Command said the American withdrawal was 95% complete, after President Joe Biden's mid-April announcement that America was ending the "forever war."

The Tashkent meeting will have representatives of U.S. Homeland Security as well as Washington's special Afghan peace envoy, Zalmay Khalilzad. Also attending are Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, as well as Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The five Central Asian States had a separate meeting with Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall, President Joe Biden's assistant for homeland security. Afghanistan figured prominently in their talks, which centered on ways to cooperate on regional security.

"Participants in the meeting voiced their adherence to creating stable conditions that would help peaceful settlement in Afghanistan," said a statement from the Turkmenistan foreign ministry following the meeting.

The goals of the gathering are now unclear. Rather than the original agenda of highways and railroads, the powers are likely looking for some regional consensus over what a final peace can look like and action from all the players to push that through. The fear is not only over Taliban gains; without a peace deal, Afghanistan's many warlords may turn to a new, destructive civil war among themselves to seek power or preserve their interests.

"We call on countries of the region and the broader international community to play a constructive role in support of the Afghan peace process," Borrell said, adding he will make a personal plea at the Tashkent conference.

The conference gathers many of Afghanistan's neighbors, including Pakistan, Iran, Russia, China, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Several of them have been accused of backing factions inside Afghanistan and fomenting violence for their own gains. They also have concerns about militant groups inside Afghanistan that threaten them, like the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan and the Islamic State group. The Taliban are seen by many, including the U.S., as useful bulwarks against those groups.

In Tashkent, Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani is expected to meet Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines. At the same time, Pakistan will be hosting a meeting in Islamabad with the Afghan political leadership, apparently aiming to heal regional rifts. That meeting may begin as early as Friday.

The relationship between the two countries is fraught with suspicion and heated mutual accusations.

Ghani has accused Islamabad of fomenting violence in Afghanistan because the Taliban leadership is headquartered in Pakistan. The Taliban also often use Afghan refugee camps in Pakistan for rest and relaxation. Many Taliban leaders also have their families in Pakistan's key cities of Karachi on the Arabia Sea and Quetta in southwestern Baluchistan province, where the insurgent movement also brings its wounded for treatment.

Pakistan, however, says it has used its influence with the Taliban to get them to the negotiation table, even as it says that influence is waning as the insurgents gain more territory inside Afghanistan.

Pakistan also accuses Afghanistan of harboring the Pakistani Taliban  the anti-Pakistan militant Tehreek-e-Taliban group, which is separate from the Afghan Taliban and which stepped up its attacks against Pakistan's military in recent months. Pakistan also blames Afghanistan's intelligence agency of aiding the Pakistani Taliban as well as the Baluchistan Liberation Army, a secessionist movement blamed for attacks against Chinese interests in Pakistan.

The volatility of the regional players makes the relationships often a delicate balance.

"The key regional players all share a desire for a more stable Afghanistan, and they back the peace process. But the risk is that they will work at cross purposes by supporting competing factions within Afghanistan," said Michael Kugelman, deputy director of the Asia Program at the U.S.-based Wilson Center.

"And at the end of the day, while the Taliban is happy to hear out the Chinese, the Russians, and the Iranians, it has the luxury of shrugging off what they say about easing violence, redirecting their full attention to the battlefield, and finishing off a fight they believe they're winning."
Two Republican lawmakers, seizing on newly surfaced Defense Department emails, are calling for hearings on Amazons efforts to win a cloud-computing contract for the U.S. military worth as much as $10 billion.

The emails, obtained through a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit brought by a former Pentagon inspector general who had also advised Donald Trump during the 2016 campaign, are related to a series of meetings then-Defense Secretary Jim Mattis held with executives from several tech companies, including Amazon, in August 2017. They show that Sally Donnelly, who had been a paid consultant for Amazon before joining the Pentagon as a senior adviser earlier that year, encouraged other officials to set up a meeting between Mattis and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos (who owns The Washington Post).

Rep. Ken Buck, R-Colo., and Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, contend the emails, first reported Tuesday by the New York Times, suggest the Seattle-based tech giant tried to use undue influence in its pursuit of the Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure (JEDI) contract, which went to Microsoft in 2019 before becoming mired in legal challenges and ultimately scrapped.

Its becoming more and more clear that Amazon used its market power and paid-for connections to circumvent ethical boundaries and avoid competition in an attempt to win this contract, Buck and Lee said in a news release.

Now, more than ever, we need to ask Amazon, under oath, whether it tried to improperly influence the largest federal contract in history.

The emails were released in late May after Joseph Schmitz sued. Schmitz had been the Pentagons inspector general during the George W. Bush administration before becoming the chief operating officer and general counsel for the Prince Group, the parent company of the defense contractor once known as Blackwater, according to his LinkedIn profile. He also advised Trump on national security matters during the 2016 campaign.

Schmitz also has written columns for Newsmax, the conservative online news outlet, in which he labeled the 2020 election a farce and claimed to have observed widespread voter fraud in Pennsylvania, echoing discredited accusations aired by Trump in response to his loss.

According to court documents, Schmitz is represented by two other attorneys. It was not apparent from court records who might be funding the lawsuit.

Schmitz also seeks case files and investigative documents related to the inspector generals April 13, 2020, report on JEDI, in an ongoing lawsuit involving the secretary of defense, as well as the Office of Inspector General.

In an emailed statement to The Post, Schmitz said the public interest in the report was not being served. Critical documents underlying that report still have not been disclosed. I think the small set of documents recently disclosed reveals how much has yet to be brought to light. There needs to be accountability for these decisions.

Amazon did not respond to requests for comment. A spokeswoman for the Pentagons inspector general said the IG stands by the findings and conclusions of its April 2020 investigative report and declined to comment further. Defense Department spokesman Russell Goemaere said the agency also stands by the IG report, which found no improper influence in the JEDI contracting process, a position he noted has been validated by several independent authorities.

Donnellys attorney, Michael Levy, said his client has always adhered to all ethical and legal obligations and acted in the best interest of the national security of the United States.

He also said Donnelly had no influence over JEDI or any other government contract, adding: To suggest otherwise not only reflects an absence of even the most rudimentary understanding of the government contracting process but also insults the dedicated career men and women at the Department of Defense.

The JEDI contract had been a competitive lightning rod, with some of the biggest names in tech vying for the 10-year cloud contract, which was seen as an important foothold in a lucrative and fast-growing market. Amazon was widely viewed as the presumptive winner because it already had national security experience through its 2013 contract with the CIA. It also is the market-leading cloud provider, though Microsoft is gaining, and it remains the only company certified to hold top-secret data.

But the Defense Department went with Microsoft, twice, only to cancel the deal last week in the face of a protracted bid protest by Amazon. JEDI is to be replaced by a new contract that divvies the work among two or more companies.

Throughout its many phases, JEDI has been the subject of criticism related to a revolving door between Amazon and the Defense Department, much of it focused on the alleged role played by a handful of Amazon-linked officials in 2017 - several months before the JEDI procurement process kicked off.

The most vocal critic was Oracle, a onetime JEDI bidder whose database business is threatened by cloud technology. In an early bid protest, it accused Amazon of working its connections to steer the contract in its favor, alleging the procurement process had been tainted.

A federal judge concluded that one Amazon official, Deap Ubhi, whose work at the Pentagon was bookended by positions at Amazon, broke the rules when he left government to work for Amazon. His case was referred to the Justice Department, which declined to prosecute.

But the court rejected Oracles allegation of a systematic, institutional conflict of interest that would corrupt the entire procurement. A lengthy inspector generals investigation concurred.

Levy, the attorney for Donnelly, said the inspector generals report concluded that she acted entirely appropriately and did not provide preferential treatment or greater access to Amazon or anyone else.

The emails appear to show that Donnelly helped broker meetings between Mattis and various tech leaders, including Bezos, several of which took place in August 2017.

In one email exchange from April 2017, Donnelly and another official agreed not to get involved in scheduling a meeting with Bezos. We should stand back and let the [secretary of defense] schedule process work  we should take no action to help. Not our place, not proper, Donnelly wrote.

But on April 21, 2017, when an unnamed Air Force official asked Donnelly whether to accept a meeting with Bezos, she responded: I think he is the genius of our age, so why not.

Then, on April 23, Donnelly sent an email with the subject line Why Bezos. It listed seven reasons in support of a meeting, including his ownership of The Post and his founding of the spaceflight company Blue Origin. She also praised Amazon, saying, Innovation is the organizing principle of the company.

Later, in an Aug. 10 email sent after Bezos met with Mattis, another defense official whose name was redacted told Donnelly the meeting seemed to go very well but noted that it seemed to morph into an [Amazon Web Services] sales pitch.

Referring to Mattis, the official said, Boss was nice and gracious but I didnt get a good vibe out of it.

Asked about the genius comment in the IG report published last year, Donnelly said that she had been flippant and that she had no control over Mattiss meeting schedule. Her attorney said she and others had encouraged Secretary Mattis to learn as much as he could from the countrys most prominent leaders in information technology, including the leaders of Microsoft, Google, and Apple  each of whom Secretary Mattis met on the same August 2017 West Coast trip during which he met with the CEO of Amazon.

Briefing materials presented to Mattis on that trip highlighted Amazons innovative culture but also gave similar plaudits to the companys competitors. The briefing materials for Googles visit, for example, praised the companys innovative approaches to information security and its highly-talented workforce.

Ruth Vetter, who was director of the Defense Departments Office of Standards and Conduct, said in an Oct. 18, 2017, email that she did not object to potential Bezos meetings on ethical grounds. The key is for engagement with industry to be fair, even, and transparent. DoD officials can generally meet one-on-one with members of industry as long as they do not give preferential treatment to some members of industry, Vetter wrote. (Vetter has since left the Pentagon for an ethics and compliance role at Boeing.)

In a Nov. 30, 2017, email, Donnelly encouraged other officials to also set up a meeting between Mattis and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, whom she called one of the sectors thought leaders. 

Nadella has asked for it (we missed him when [Mattis] was in Seattle earlier this year); it ensures SD has balance across the tech sector leaders (he has seen Bezos, [Eric] Schmidt and [Sundar] Pichai of Google, etc), Donnelly wrote.

The emails, per an official whose name was redacted, also said Mattis met with the Google chief executive, Pichai, as well as Apple CEO Tim Cook.

The one positive note of the trip is that everyone (google, roundtable, cook) seemed to convey a sincere patriotic tune. I think that might have surprised the Boss a bit. Thats my read, though, so take it with a grain of salt, an unnamed official wrote in the Aug. 11, 2017, email to Donnelly.

In a subsequent report summarizing the trip, a defense official whose name was redacted said Mattis appeared persuaded of the need to embrace cloud technology.

By the time the trip had completed, [Secretary of Defense] shifted from skeptical to convinced that we must move to the Cloud to remain competitive in development, efficient in administration, and lethal in operations, the unnamed official said in a report, sent to other senior officials on Aug. 12, 2017.

JEDIs initial call for applications was publicly launched seven months later.
A U.S. Special Forces soldier observes elite Colombian troops during training at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida in 2015. The two militaries have a partnership dating back decades. (U.S. Defense Department)

Some of the former Colombian servicemen arrested after last week's assassination of Haiti's president previously received U.S. military training, according to the Pentagon, raising fresh questions about the United States' ties to Jovenel Moise's death.

"A review of our training databases indicates that a small number of the Colombian individuals detained as part of this investigation had participated in past U.S. military training and education programs, while serving as active members of the Colombian Military Forces," Lt. Col. Ken Hoffman, a Pentagon spokesman, said in a statement to The Washington Post.

The Pentagon's review is ongoing, Hoffman said. He did not say how many of the men received training or precisely what it entailed.

Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., whose legislation provides oversight to foreign defense aid used in human rights abuses, said the episode was a grim reminder that U.S. assistance to other countries can take unexpected turns.

"This illustrates that while we want our training of foreign armies to build professionalism and respect for human rights, the training is only as good as the institution itself," he said.

"The Colombian army, which we have supported for 20 years, has a long history of targeting civilians, violating the laws of war and not being accountable. There has been a cultural problem within that institution."

Colombian officials have said 13 of the 15 Colombian suspects in the July 7 assassination plot once served in that country's military, including the two killed by Haitian authorities after Moise was fatally shot inside his home.

It is common for Colombian troops and other security personnel across Latin America to receive U.S. training and education. Colombia, in particular, has been a significant U.S. military partner for decades, receiving billions of U.S. dollars since 2000 in its effort to battle drug trafficking organizations, leftist guerrillas and far-right paramilitary groups.

That effort has included CIA-backed missions and a close relationship between Colombia military personnel and the Green Berets, who help train their elite counterparts in guerrilla warfare. A Colombian commando school is modeled on the Army's grueling Ranger School, and the two militaries' partnership dates at least to the 1950s.

Colombian military and police also use U.S.-provided weapons and equipment, an agreement that came under scrutiny earlier this year after police there killed multiple protesters during demonstrations against government tax proposals. A related analysis by The Post, published in May, found that Colombian authorities overstepped their own rules of engagement in some of the deadly encounters.

Fighting in Colombia's decades-long war has been a springboard for military veterans to trade their U.S.-funded experience for hire in other global conflicts, such as in Yemen.

"The recruitment of Colombian soldiers to go to other parts of the world as mercenaries is an issue that has existed for a long time, because there is no law that prohibits it," the commander of Colombia's Armed Forces, Gen. Luis Fernando Navarro, told reporters last week.

Foreign military training provided by the United States is intended to promote "respect for human rights, compliance with the rule of law, and militaries subordinate to democratically elected civilian leadership," Hoffman, the Pentagon spokesman, said in his statement. He did not immediately respond to questions seeking additional information.

The disclosure that some of the assassination suspects received U.S. training, which has not been previously reported, is certain to complicate the already murky understanding of how the plot to kill Moise took shape, and who was involved.

Two U.S. citizens of Haitian descent are among those who've been arrested, and Haitian authorities have said a Florida-based security company was involved in purchasing plane tickets for the Colombian suspects to fly from Bogota to the Dominican Republic, according to a report published this week by the Associated Press, which noted authorities have offered scant evidence.

Christian Emmanuel Sanon, 63, an American doctor and pastor who frequently traveled between Haiti and Florida, was arrested in connection to the plot. Authorities have claimed he was positioning himself to run for president in the impoverished Caribbean nation and had a role in hiring the alleged assassins, but they have provided little evidence about his alleged involvement.

To date, Haitian authorities have arrested at least 20 people in connection with Moise's death, which has plunged the country into a leadership crisis. Late Wednesday officials confirmed they had detained the presidential palace's head of security.

Authorities in Haiti are investigating Moise's killing with assistance from the FBI, the Department of Homeland Security officials and personnel from Colombia's government. President Biden has condemned the assassination and appealed for calm, but his administration has rebuffed requests from Haiti's government for American military assistance to help shore up security.

The Washington Post's Widlore Merancourt, Samantha Schmidt, Rachel Pannett and Anthony Faiola contributed to this report.
Buy Photo The Department of Veterans Affairs building in Washington, D.C., in June, 2020. (Joe Gromelski/Stars and Stripes)

WASHINGTON  The Department of Veterans Affairs promised a new approach Wednesday for the major project to overhaul its electronic health record system, following concerns from federal watchdogs and employees who used the program when it first when live in Spokane, Wash.

VA Secretary Denis McDonough testified Wednesday before the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee about the challenges and the departments plan moving forward. Shortly after becoming secretary in February, McDonough paused the project and ordered a 12-week internal review. The review revealed patient safety problems, escalating costs, a lack of productivity and ineffective training on the new system for health care providers, among other issues.

In some cases, veterans received duplicate medications in the mail when the new system did not automatically cancel old prescriptions, McDonough said. Some staff in Spokane complained that they were not introduced to the system until the day it went live and didnt know how to use it.

McDonough vowed there would be a surge of activity in the coming weeks and months to correct the problems. The department was supposed to deploy the new system at a second site in Columbus, Ohio, but the agency said Wednesday it would not go live in Columbus until patient safety issues were addressed.

As a result of the strategic review, were reimaging our approach to this system, McDonough said. We can and will get this effort back on track.

In 2017, the VA started to overhaul its electronic health record system. It awarded a contract to Cerner Corp., a technology company in Kansas City, Mo. The new system is supposed to be capable of sharing patient data seamlessly with the Defense Department, which could limit problems when a service member transitions out of the military.

The new system went live at the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center in Spokane in October. At the time, former VA Secretary Robert Wilkie described it as a historic step toward creating a seamless health care experience for veterans. Health care workers in Spokane did not receive enough training on the new system before it launched, the VA Inspector General found.

One VA employee told the IG that there was a high anxiety level after training with Cerner. Nearly two-thirds of staff said they had difficulty navigating the new software, and only 5% felt fully prepared to use all functions of it.

The IG also discovered that the VA underestimated the cost of the project. The departments contract with Cerner started at $10 billion but increased to $16.1 billion.

The VA underestimated the cost of necessary upgrades to both its physical infrastructure and its information technology, the IG reported. It would likely need $2.5 billion to $5.1 billion more for the project, the report states.

I, for one, am fed up with the amount of taxpayer dollars being spent on this program without any demonstrated benefits to veterans or VA medical staff, said Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., the committee chairman. This simply cannot continue.

McDonough described Wednesday the agencys plans to invest in infrastructure, improve training and testing and be more transparent with Congress as the new system rolls out. He committed to Cerners technology, saying that the issues were with the management of the project, rather than the software.

McDonough and Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., the ranking Republican on the committee, said that if the system is implemented correctly, it has the potential to simplify the patient experience and move the health care industry forward.

Its exasperating because the potential benefits that could accrue from this effort are tremendous, Moran said. Its the ability for the VA to care for veterans, for service men and women to more easily transition from active duty to becoming a veteran. And the longer we delay and the longer we have challenges, the less likely that the veterans who are living today are going to benefit from this.

Nikki Wentling
Jacob Blair Scott (usmarshals.gov)

(Tribune News Service)  A Moss Point, Miss., Army veteran who reportedly faked his own death to avoid prison for alleged child sex crime charges is asking for a change of venue for his trial because of pre-trial publicity.

In addition, attorneys for Jacob Blair Scott, 44, are asking a Jackson County judge to prohibit the media from filming or photographing any portion of the trial, arguing Scott could not receive a fair trial if the action is allowed.

The Sun Herald has provided video and camera coverage of various criminal trials since an April 2013 ruling by the Mississippi Supreme Court allowing electronic coverage in criminal and civil cases in circuit court along with coverage of chancery and county court proceedings.

The rule also allows camera coverage of action by the state Supreme Court and Court of Appeals.

A judge has the discretion to limit, terminate or otherwise prevent such electronic coverage, though it is usually granted as long as the media files the request on time and follows he rules of court.

Scott's attorneys argue he has right to be alerted to any media request for video and camera coverage of his proceedings.

In the motion to move the trial to another county, defense attorneys Victor Carmody Jr. and Tangi Carter say Scott can't get a fair trial in Jackson County because publicity about the case has tainted any potential jury pool, all of whom the attorneys claim have likely already "pre-judged" him.

A child sex crime suspect on the run

Scott's case, however, made local and national news after authorities say he faked his own death in Orange Beach, Alabama, in July 2018, and went into hiding.

The Army veteran went on the run just days before he was set to plead guilty to charges in the child sex crimes case that could ultimately send him to prison for life. A grand jury indicted Scott on 14 felony child sex crime charges, including one count accusing him of filming the minor girl in sex acts.

On Jan. 29, 2020, a tip led to Scott's capture at a campground in Antlers, Oklahoma, less than 24 hours after U.S. Marshals named him a top 15 most-wanted fugitive and within hours of his case making headlines on Investigation Discovery's "In Pursuit" with John Walsh.

Scott had been using the name of a former coworker at Chevron's Pascagoula Refinery when he went on the run.

Scott sues sheriff, deputies, medical staff

Since Scott has been held in the Jackson County jail, he has filed a lawsuit against Jackson County Sheriff Mike Ezell, various jailers and the doctor and nurse for VitalCore Health Strategies, the company that provides health care services at the jail, and other unnamed defendants.

He alleges his rights have been violated, saying jailers and medical staff have denied him a standard level of care for certain pre-existing conditions and have refused him some of his basic needs.

Scott suffers from ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease.

He says he usually takes medication for the illness, but the the jail doctor and nurse have repeatedly denied him the medication he needs.

Since going without the medication, Scott claims jail staff have repeatedly denied him basic essentials, like extra toilet paper, to help him deal with the issues caused by lack of medication.

Scott has also reported that he suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder.

Scott filed the suit on his own behalf in federal court in Gulfport.

The Sheriff's Office and VitalCore Strategies have not yet responded to the allegations and the suit is pending.

Scott is set to go before Jackson County Circuit Judge Kathy King Jackson later this month for a hearing on his plea to move his criminal trial to another county.

(c)2021 The Sun Herald (Biloxi, Miss.)

Visit The Sun Herald (Biloxi, Miss.) at www.sunherald.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
A photo of deceased U.S. Air Force Airman 2nd Class Edward J. Miller, who died in a plane crash in 1952 in Alaska, is displayed with a single dog tag, debris from the plane crash and a letter telling the family that these items were recovered from the crash. (Brad McClenny, The Gainesville Sun/TNS)

JANESVILLE, Wisc. (Tribune News Service)  After his military transport plane crashed into an Alaskan mountainside nearly 70 years ago, Edward J. Miller is finally coming home.

On Friday, July 16, Miller will be transported to Maple Hill Cemetery in Evansville, where he will be laid to rest.

Miller, an Evansville man and former U.S. Air Force Airman Second Class of the 1701st Aerial Port Squadron, died on Nov. 22, 1952, after a transport plane he was on crashed into a glacier on a mountain 45 miles east of Anchorage, Alaska.

The wrecked plane and everyone aboard were buried under ice and snow after several days of blizzard conditions.

It wasnt until a series of search-and-recovery missions during the summers between 2012 and 2019 that the remains of Miller and all but a few of the other 51 servicemen were discovered and identities confirmed. The story of the recovery of the mens remains was featured in The Gazette last month.

According to his obituary, Miller was being relocated to Alaska on the day of the crash and was one of 52 passengers aboard an Air Force C-124 Globemaster. It would be another year before the wreckage was discovered, but severe weather and terrain conditions hindered recovery attempts for decades.

Starting at the General Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee, a military convoy  to be joined by the Rock County Sheriffs Office and Evansville Police Department  will escort Miller and members of his family along a route leading to the funeral home.

The release encourages members of the public to show its respects by lining East and West Main Street during the procession. There will be no parking on East Main Street or onthe north side of West Main Street from First Street to Fourth Street.

On Saturday, July 17, Miller will be buried with full military honors graveside at the Maple Hill Cemetery. The service is slated to begin around 1:00 p.m. and is open to the public.

Miller is survived by sisters Dorothy Miller Wheaton and Nancy Miller Cox, both of whom reside in Florida.

___

(c)2021 The Janesville Gazette (Janesville, Wis.)

Visit The Janesville Gazette (Janesville, Wis.) at www.gazetteextra.com
Then-NCAA chief legal officer Donald Remy speaks during an interview in Indianapolis on May 6, 2015. The Senate on Thursday voted 91-8 to confirm Remy, a former U.S. Army captain, as the deputy secretary of the VA. (Michael Conroy/AP)

WASHINGTON  The Senate on Thursday confirmed a former leader of the NCAA to take the No. 2 position at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

The Senate voted 91-8 to confirm Donald Remy, a former U.S. Army captain, as the deputy secretary of the VA. Remy worked as the chief operating officer and chief legal officer for the NCAA.

As VAs second-highest leader, he will be responsible for coordinating its work with the Department of Defense on critical issues including toxic exposure and the transition from service member to veteran, as well as overseeing implementation of its new electronic health record, said Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee. I look forward to working with him in this new role to address these and other issues.

The vote on Remys confirmation was delayed for two months by Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., who said in June that she was blocking the confirmation for Remy and three other key VA nominees because she was frustrated with the departments feedback about a piece of legislation.

The hold was lifted in late June for the other nominees, and they were confirmed by the Senate. VA Secretary Denis McDonough lobbied senators in recent weeks to confirm Remy, particularly because of recent challenges with the departments project to overhaul its electronic health record system, which the deputy secretary is supposed to lead.

We think that the nominee has demonstrated his capability, his management chops, and wed really love him to be on board, McDonough told reporters earlier this month.

Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., ranking Republican on the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, said Wednesday that the issue with Blackburns hold had been resolved.

Blackburn cited frustrations on the Senate floor in June about the VAs lack of feedback about the Cost of War Act, which would extend disability benefits to veterans of all eras who suffer the effects of toxic exposure. She said she would stall Remys nomination until the VA responded in a sufficient way.

However, Blackburn told Military Times on Wednesday that she was against Remys confirmation because of his work at the NCAA. She didnt cite specific concerns.

As the top in-house lawyer with the NCAA, Remy was part of a long-running legal battle about paying college athletes. In June, the U.S. Supreme Court decided against the NCAA and ruled that some athletes could be paid for certain educated-related expenses. The NCAA is still in debates over whether student-athletes can be paid for the use of their names and images.

At the NCAA, Remy earned an annual salary of more than $1.8 million, according to Bloomberg Law. As deputy secretary, his income will be about $180,000.

Before working for the NCAA, Remy was a partner at the law firm Lathan & Watkins, and he also served as deputy assistant attorney general for the Department of Justice. During his military career, Remy worked as assistant to the general counsel for the Army. He also served as a law clerk in the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

Remy graduated from Louisiana State University and Howard University law school.
Gov. Kevin Stitt cut the ribbon at the new Oklahoma Pandemic Center for Innovation and Excellence and Public Health Lab Jan 21. The lab's move from Oklahoma City caused some testing to be outsourced during the transition but most of those tests are now being performed at the new Stillwater facility. File photo
Volunteers with the Stillwater chapter of Altrusa International were in for quite the surprise in 2018, as hundreds lined around the building at Our Daily Bread to receive backpacks for children before the new school year begins. Provided
Changes to the SunCommercial's back end processing means the e-edition is getting a facelift. The biggest change is the e-edition, by default, is now presented in Text view.
Tamati Coffey

Labour List MP

If you like the thought of celebrating a public holiday that you wont find anywhere else in the world, keep reading!

Our government is delivering on a pre-election commitment, where New Zealand will celebrate Matariki as a public holiday from June 24, 2022. The date for the Matariki public holiday will shift each year, to align with the Maori lunar calendar. And the best part is, it will always be on a Friday.

This will be our first public holiday that officially recognises Te Ao Maori knowledge, which has been at the heart of the decision making. Recognised experts in Te Ao Maori have led this process, providing advice and engaging with various communities, who have been grateful for their guidance.

Matariki is the Maori name for the constellations collectively called the Pleiades. It refers to a cluster of stars that rises in mid-Winter, marking the start of the traditional Maori New Year.

This new long weekend will allow people to travel to their hometowns or around our regions, and spend time with their whanau, which ties into the old Maori proverb Matariki hunga nui which means Matariki which brings us together.

As a country that celebrates the Queens Birthday (on a day which isnt actually her birthday) and Boxing Day (which has come to represent discounted shopping bargains), isnt it great that we are starting to reclaim our own special days as part of our annual calendar, whilst honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the role Maori knowledge has to play.
A $2.5 billion water reform package is expected to support local government and stimulate the local economy.

A total of $160,619,221 will be allocated throughout the Bay of Plenty.

The Government is today announcing the package to support local government transition through the reforms to New Zealands drinking water, wastewater and stormwater services.

The package will also stimulate local economies while creating jobs and unlocking infrastructure for housing, says Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

Tauranga will receive $48,405,014, while the Western Bay of Plenty will get $21,377,135.

Rotorua Lakes is being allocated $32,193,519, Whakatanes share is $22,657,555, while Opotiki and Kawerau are to receive $18,715,493 and $17,270,505, respectively.

New Zealands water systems are facing a significant crisis and will continue to do so without major transformation, says Ardern.

Overhauling our drinking, waste and stormwater services will benefit all New Zealand communities, no matter where they are in the country.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. Photo: Daniel Hines/SunLive.

The support package announced today will ensure that no council is worse off as a result of the reforms.

$500 million is set aside to provide certainty for local authorities that they will be supported through the transition process, and to ensure the financial impacts of reform will be managed.

Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta says Central and Local Government have very similar goals and its important that the two tiers of government approach these challenges together.

New Zealands water system is one of the countrys most significant infrastructure sectors, touching every aspect of our lives, says Mahuta.

Our communities will need to invest between $120-185 billion over the next 30 years to maintain, replace and upgrade ageing assets and to provide for growth.

The Government has signed a commitment to work together with Local Government New Zealand to engage and consult with councils and other stakeholders over the next 6-8 weeks and beyond.

The reforms are about acting for the greater good, with significant benefits to all communities. But they will have the best chance of success if all councils participate, says Mahuta.

All of our water assets will be retained in local ownership; that has been a bottom line for us.

We have added a public referendum provision to provide the ultimate protection against privatisation. There will be mechanisms to ensure a strong community say in how the assets and services are run and how planning will be managed.

The $500 million no worse off component of the support package seeks to address the costs and financial impacts that councils would incur such as the transfer of water assets, liabilities, revenue and staff to a new water services entity.

The funding also ensures councils will be able to continue to sustainably perform their non-water related roles and functions.

Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta Photo: RNZ/Dom Thomas.

But we also know that calculating the long-term impact of the transition of these services for councils is difficult, says Mahuta.

The better off component of the support package, which comprises $1 billion Crown funding and $1 billion from the new water services entities, is allocated to councils on the basis of a nationally consistent formula.

Councils will be able to use this funding to support the three waters service reform, and focus on other local wellbeing outcomes associated with climate change and resilience, housing and urban design and planning, and community wellbeing

The funding package comes on top of the $761 million committed to the reform programme in 2020, and $296 million announced in Budget 2021 for the costs involved with the establishment and transition of the new water entities.

The reforms will grow GDP by $14 billion to $23 billion over the next 30 years and create an estimated 6000 to 9000 jobs.

Q&As

Is the Government buying the councils water assets?

No. The assets are currently owned by communities through their councils. Under the reforms, communities will continue to own the assets through the water entities. These entities will be collectively owned by local councils for the communities they are serving.

What happens next?

It has been agreed to have a six to eight-week period following this conference during which officials from the Department of Internal Affairs will work in partnership with Local Government New Zealand to further engage with the sector, after which the Government will meet again to discuss next steps for the reforms.

This will assist sector members to understand the reform-related information, and explain the policy proposals, the benefits of reform, and the details of the support package.

When will the entities exist?

The waters services entities are scheduled to begin operating in three years time on 1 July 2024.

How will the Government act to prevent privatisation?

Continued public ownership of Three Waters services and infrastructure is a bottom line for the Government.

Most water infrastructure is already publicly owned by communities through their councils. The water entities will be collectively owned by local councils for the communities they are serving.

The Government will develop legislation specifying that local authorities will be the owners of the entities and any future privatisation proposal must be put to the community through a referendum requiring at least 75 per cent agreement for change.

The entities will be structured in a way that prevents them from paying dividends or offering other financial rewards. This will make them unattractive to potential alternative owners.

How will communities retain influence over water services?

Oversight will be shared through a local Representative Group made up of local councils and mana whenua. This group will set expectations for the entity and select an independent panel to appoint an entity board.

Each entity will be required to engage with communities in a meaningful and effective manner on all key documents and report on how consumer and community feedback was incorporated into decision-making.

How will transition be managed?

Local Government will be supported through the transition process to ensure business as usual operations are not disrupted.

A sum of $296 million has been set aside to help manage the costs of transitioning to the new entities.

What impact will the reforms have on the workforce?

Developing a sustainable workforce, which can deliver on the increased activity, is critical to the success of the reforms.

This includes developing the existing workforce to adapt to the reforms, as well as creating a pipeline of an appropriately skilled workforce through education, training, immigration and substitution initiatives.

Modelling and research suggest the water sector workforce will need to grow significantly over the coming years.

Transition planning is being developed to ensure much needed certainty for the workforce.

Appendix B  Better Off funding allocation

The formula used to allocate funding takes into account population, relative deprivation and land area. This formula recognises the relative needs of local communities, the unique challenges facing local authorities in meeting those needs, and differences across the country in the ability to pay for those needs.
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Dr Siouxsie Wiles is making her mark on the Business Womens Network after opening day two of the BWN Speaker Series.

The Business Womens Network, hosted by the Tauranga Chamber of Commerce, attracted nearly 280 women to the first day of the event on July 8.

Tauranga Chamber of Commerce marketing and communications manager Laura Boucher says it was a great afternoon of inspirational speakers, business insights and connections made with local business women.

The highly anticipated Dr Siouxsie Wiles opened the event, immediately making an impression (and not just for her hair), and receiving a big cheer from the audience as she took to the stage.

She spoke about her fascinating journey to date, becoming one of the most famous communicators during the Covid-19 pandemic, says Laura.

As she says, distilling science into a language the masses can understand is an artform and Siouxsie has spent the last 10 years working that skill through her own blogs and content with her daughter Eve.

Little did she know the pandemic would hit and suddenly she would be propelled into the public eye.

Siouxsie spoke about the flack she gets for being this figure, with other academics questioning why she gets this privileged role, particularly in the media.

As she says, its because she has honed that skill to explain science, says Laura.

Shes accessible to media and, above all this, its her area of expertise.

Heartbreakingly, this attitude towards her skills and experience is not uncommon, and Siouxsie spoke about a certain individual who has gone to great lengths to discredit her PhD. Needless to say, she had two choice words for this man.

The next three speakers were from local businesses and organisations.

First was Fiona McTavish, CE of Toi Moana Regional Council.

Fiona spoke about her why and shared some insights into how she has brought her why into the workplace.

With huge empathy and support for her people, says Laura, she calls it the ripple effect and demonstrated some ways in which it is being felt across the council  including giving people from all walks of life a chance to be involved in council through their Summer Experience programme.

Next was double act Gordy Lockhart (The Kollective) and Tania Wilson (Momenta, which is a tenant at The Kollective).

Taking to the stage in his kilt (at event organiser Annes request), Gordy very quickly engaged the crowd with a group wave, which he filmed for social media.

It was an easy way to demonstrate the power of collaboration, the central theme of The Kollective and its guiding principles.

The unique co-working space has been established to (predominately) support not-for-profit organisations and community groups, reducing their overheads, helping them upskill and connect them to people that can help them achieve their goals.

Closing the afternoon was Brianne West from Ethique.

Known globally as the worlds most sustainable beauty brand (which is all run out of Christchurch), Ethique has smashed numerous sustainability goals, including stopping 11m plastic bottles going to landfill, says Laura.

But while this is what grabs headline for Ethique, Brianne dug deeper in our session and explained how the whole process and supply chain are sustainable, from direct trade partnerships to source ingredients such as coconut, through to achieving climate positive status this March.

After her presentation, the Chambers marketing & communications manager Laura conducted a Q&A with Brianne. Read more here.

The chamber has a number of other BWN events coming up this year.

You can view these here.
Farmers, growers, tradies and their dogs are set to converge on Katikati today as part of a national howl of protest.

Groups in more than 50 towns and cities across New Zealand, from Invercargill to Kaitaia, will take part in the planned demonstrations aimed at sending a message to the government.

Their grievances are clear, with a rural groundswell focused on standing up for farmers, food producers, contractors, tradies and councils against what they say are unworkable rules and unjustified costs being thrust on them.

The Katikati protest, organised by the KKCando Concerned Ratepayers in conjunction with Groundswell NZ, is also an opportunity to remind people of Katikatis road congestion issue and our need here for a bypass, says local coordinator Christina Humphreys.

This is a nationwide protest against Jacinda Ardern and the Labour governments proposed tax on diesel utes, tractors, trucks, etcetera, all in a bid for New Zealand to have all electric vehicles, which is not possible or practical.

As well as the local road issue, there are seven key points that Groundswell NZ want to make clear.

The group wants the national policy statements on indigenous biodiversity and freshwater scrapped along with regulations for significant natural areas and wetlands.

Attaining fresh water guidelines should be the jurisdiction of catchment groups in association with regional councils, says Groundswell NZs Bryce McKenzie.

The government regulations are a land grab, and private property rights must be protected.

They also want the ute tax to be withdrawn.

There is no alternative electric vehicle, adds Bryce, and utes are essential to those economic heavy lifters  farmers, horticulturalists, industry support people and trademen. This is another financial burden.

Another request is that overseas seasonal workers be prioritised through MIQ in order to help support rural contractors and the horticultural, dairy and fruit picking industries, while climate change is another issue that Bryce says is unworkable.

These sectors are doing the heavy lifting for the New Zealand economy, now more than ever, and the mental strain of continuous long hours and product loss in becoming unbearable.

Large areas of farmland are being incentivised into pine. This policy is a significant cost burden borne by the worlds most emissions-efficient farmers.

Starting at noon on Friday, July 16, the Katikati protest has a Hilux leading a convoy coming from the south side of town, with another convoy coming from the Kauri Point northern end of town.

After proceeding slowly along Main Street Katikati, the two convoys will converge on Moore Park.

Following a short speech from Groundswell there will be a dogs howl.

If the dogs dont howl or bark we will toot horns, says Christina, who sent a map of the route to participants that includes an image of Winston Churchill saying we shall never surrender.

We hope this large, nationwide protest will show government that we are unhappy people and not impressed about losing our democracy and being legislated from our farms and businesses.

The KKCando Concerned Ratepayers are inviting locals to support the protest, and all dogs must be on leads.

New Zealand is a great place to live, and it is worth fighting for. says Christina.
An increased presence at community events and active engagement with whanau is seeing improved health literacy and access to health and wellbeing services for Maori through Ngati Ranginui Iwis Mauri Ora programme.

Mauri Ora uses traditional Maori kaupapa and values, such as whakawhanaungatanga (inclusiveness) to bring people together to learn about hauora (health and wellbeing) with a holistic approach.

The Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation has funded the programme since 2016, which has continued to grow and add new projects.

In 2021 these projects have included a six-week fitness challenge  Hikoi Kori Tinana Wero - in the lead-up to the Tauranga Moana Tauranga Tangata Festival, stalls offering general health checks at various events, a whanau-focussed cooking competition, Tunu Kai Wero, and traditional Mokopapa where seven wahine received their moko kauae (traditional Maori facial tattoo).

Last year Mauri Ora offered several programmes targeted at tane (men), including offering health checks at senior rugby training sessions, a hauora-focussed fundraiser for Movember, Hurungutu, and a mens health event called Brocode. Hurungutu is currently being promoted again for 2021.

Mauri Ora Coordinator Te Aihe Toma has also worked with tauira (students) at Te Wharekura o Mauao through a newly established rugby academy, Te Taumata, and their Ra Oranga days.

People taking part in Hikoi Kori Tinana Wero completed a hikoi (walk) and a series of exercises each week for six weeks, going into a prize draw and earning points along the way for their marae to win their own Ki-o-Rahi (traditional Maori ball game) set. Whanau were encouraged to walk together and reconnect with their rohe (area), and social media was used to monitor progress and increase engagement.

Wairoa Marae was the winner of a Ki-o-Rahi (traditional Maori ball game) set for earning the most points during the Hikoi Kori Tinana Wero held earlier this year.

Cheryl Toma says she took part in Hikoi Kori Tinana Wero because it gave her great pride to connect to her whakapapa.

It was a simple kaupapa - free and accessible to everybody, and you could do it on your own or with your whanau. Walking the whenua (land) allowed me to connect with my taha wairua (spiritual wellbeing) and my marae, and most of all, it was fun.

Cheryl walked Te Rae-o-Papamoa (Papamoa Hills Regional Park) and the Minden Lookout as well as along the beach near her home in Te Puna.

Peter Smith also took part in the hikoi with his marae and says although people were earning points for their own marae, it was great to see other marae and hapu taking part, and especially the older generation.

We were there to tautoko (support), whether it was on the flat or up a hill. Wed all try to go together but if we didnt get there, we could follow the hikoi on Facebook. My parents were visiting Queenstown so they did a hikoi down there because they wanted to contribute as well.

Te Aihe says the sharing of photos and videos on social media was a strong motivating factor.

It encouraged others to get involved and showed how easy it was to do it, whatever your age and level of fitness. If an exercise was too hard for some, we came up with an alternative.

Mauri Oras Movember challenge, Hurungutu, is under way again for 2021.

Many of the Mauri Ora programmes are deliberately targeted at tane who traditionally dont make time to look after their health and wellbeing.

They might be the main provider for their whanau so they cant take time off work to have a health check. Our events work for them because theyre held at weekends and after-hours, and it only takes a few minutes for an initial check. Cost is also a factor, as well as that shell be right attitude.

Bringing in local male personalities and sportspeople also helps to create a safe space for men to korero (talk) about their health. Artist Mr G and former New Zealand rugby league representative Tawera Nikau spoke at the Brocode event.

They talked about their own personal experiences and I think it really woke a lot of men up to the fact that ill health can affect anyone, says Te Aihe.

He hopes that by working with tamariki in schools, the next generation of Maori men will grow to value the importance of looking after their hauora.

WBOP PHO Director of Maori Health, Kiri Peita, says kaupapa Maori programmes delivered by local Iwi effortlessly deliver whanau ora programmes that focus not only on health but also on wellbeing by using Maori values such as whakawhanaungatanga.

It is inherent in how Iwi approach their mahi and care for our whanau. This leads to positive hauora outcomes for our whanau.

For more information about Mauri Ora and its upcoming programmes contact Te Aihe Toma via Facebook www.facebook.com/NRIMauriOra or email teaihe.toma@ranginui.co.nz.
More women than ever are getting involved in Police Search and Rescue (SAR).

Of the 30 applicants at this years Police national SAR training, no fewer than 10 were female.

Its the most constabulary women we have had on a SAR training course so far that I am aware of, says Senior Sergeant Rebecca Lockwood, Manager of Police Command and Emergency Management.

Its good to see more women getting involved in SAR, especially in 2021 - the 80th anniversary of women in police and these women have a lot of experience to call on.

These women - along with teams of volunteers from a range of organisations - risk their lives to find the missing, lost and injured and are a great example of teams working together for a shared goal, says Rebecca.

Im pleased to see more women are getting involved in SAR."

We caught up with some of the women involved during SAREX, a challenging four-day training exercise which forms part of the two-week national SAR training run in partnership with the Royal New Zealand Air Force, at the RNZAF Dip Flat base in Tasman District in April.

Trainees put all their learnings in practice with a search for four missing hunters in the Rainbow and Paske Valleys, says Senior Sergeant Pete Theobald, National Coordinator: Search and Rescue.

The air force assists by deploying teams to establish a radio repeater network, and then to specific locations in the search area directed by the Incident Management Team.

Constable Sarah Johnston at work with SAR veteran Senior Sergeant Vince Ranger, recently retired. Inset: making a quick exit from the NH90.

Course participant Constable Sarah Johnston, from the West Coast, has always been very active in the outdoors.

Before Police, I worked in the outdoor industry for over 10 years being an instructor/ guide in caving, rock climbing and bushcraft.

An opportunity arose about six months ago to join Police SAR on the West Coast, and I jumped at the chance.

My first experience of the LandSAR in action was in Waitomo, being in a rigging team in a cave SAR job where a person had broken their leg.

It was an extremely interesting two days rigging stuff underground with people Ive worked with for years. Its what inspired me to join SAR once in Police.

Constable Abby McIlroy out on the mountains of the South Island and, inset, in rather different surroundings at her graduation.

Constable Abby McIlroy, based in Timaru on a Public Safety Team, found the course highly rewarding.

I took away many skills - such as navigation, search techniques, managing searches and what it takes as a team to be out in the field physically and mentally.

It was one of the best experiences I have had to date  I recommend it.

Constable Carren Walker (right) during SAREX 2021.

Constable Carren Walker was ecstatic to make it on to the Northland-based SAR team after a rigorous two-day selection course in 2019.

I couldnt believe it when I made it. There was such a sense of accomplishment and only those who have done it can appreciate what I mean by that. It was no walk in the park.

We have had some great jobs. Most recently a tramper failed to return from a walk but was located a few hours later down a cliff, injured, and had to be airlifted out.

It was great seeing resources come together for a successful search. As I sat there in the bush, wet and muddy watching the heli manoeuvre its way to airlift the person, I knew that this is definitely where I wanted to be and what I wanted to be doing.

Flight Lieutenant Nicole Brooke discusses plans with a LandSAR member.

And to make this course a family affair, at the controls of the RNZAFs NH90 helicopter during SAREX was Flight Lieutenant Nicole Brooke, a member of 3 Squadron based at Ohakea.

She has a long history with SAR, not least because her father is Sergeant Andy Brooke, OC SAR based at Palmerston North Police Station.

Ive been involved in Search and Rescue since I was 13, she says.

"It was working with LandSAR and Police SAR that made me want to do my job - its great that I can now support the reason I decided to become a helicopter pilot in the air force.

Nicole, left, en route to DipFlat.

Nicole qualified to fly the NH90 in August 2017.

Search and Rescue has definitely been a highlight, particularly flying on SAR operations locally with the teams I used to be a part of on the ground - great teams such as Police, Defence and civilian volunteers working together for a common goal to help those who need it.

Dad Andy has been involved in Search and Rescue since 2004, participating in and leading many local and national searches and has spearheaded training for Police staff and LandSAR volunteers.

He was awarded the Queens Service Medal (QSM) for services to Search and Rescue in June. You can read more about that, here.

-Police Ten One Magazine.
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Re: Car brands that should come to India Quote: mohitchalla Originally Posted by Mazda - A brand with a wide model range, most of which are already well suited to the Indian market. It is also that one Japanese brand that actually delivers exceptionally high quality interiors. The SKYACTIV Technology engines can go head-to-head with Hondas iVTEC.



Share your views and what other brands do you think should come to India? Share your views and what other brands do you think should come to India?



Mazda may not have turned out to be a big volume player but in the premium space, it is a better alternative to VW and Skoda, for Indian tastes.



But now, I feel that Mazdas would just bomb in the Indian market. Sedans are dead in India, Mazda don't have turbocharged engines and their SKYACTIV-X engines may be too expensive for India. Mazda in general is moving to an even more premium space in other markets. The CX-30 is a CX-3 sized SUV priced on par with the CX-5. In India, no one is willing to pay a premium for SUVs which look puny. Also, Mazda is reluctant to put touchscreens on their infotainment systems. This may be fatal in our market.



Among other brands, I'd like to see Peugeot making a comeback. PSA/Stellantis has already entered our market with Citroen but Peugeot's current range may be more appealing to the Indian consumers. The 208, 2008 and 3008 look amazing and are loaded to gills with features. They offer softer rides and light steering wheels, which our market prefers. Mazda would have been extremely successful in India had they come to our shores about 5 years ago. Their sedans like the 2, 3 and 6 could have taken the fight to the City, Octavia and Superb while the SUVs like CX-3, CX-5 and CX-8 would compete against the Creta, Tucson and Fortuner, respectively.Mazda may not have turned out to be a big volume player but in the premium space, it is a better alternative to VW and Skoda, for Indian tastes.But now, I feel that Mazdas would just bomb in the Indian market. Sedans are dead in India, Mazda don't have turbocharged engines and their SKYACTIV-X engines may be too expensive for India. Mazda in general is moving to an even more premium space in other markets. The CX-30 is a CX-3 sized SUV priced on par with the CX-5. In India, no one is willing to pay a premium for SUVs which look puny. Also, Mazda is reluctant to put touchscreens on their infotainment systems. This may be fatal in our market.Among other brands, I'd like to see Peugeot making a comeback. PSA/Stellantis has already entered our market with Citroen but Peugeot's current range may be more appealing to the Indian consumers. The 208, 2008 and 3008 look amazing and are loaded to gills with features. They offer softer rides and light steering wheels, which our market prefers.


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This summer brings hefty changes to Google's search algorithm. Software developers and website operators need to think about how to keep their sites ranking on top. Failing to do so can have a devastating impact on finger traffic that ads and page clicks have on business results.

Google went live earlier this summer with its new Core Web Vitals algorithm to determine search rankings. With the implementation of Core Web Vitals as a key component of its search algorithm, Google has made a well-considered decision to reward sites that perform the best and that have been specifically designed to create the best experience for users, according to the company.

That design factor is key to keeping website rankings at or near the top of the digital pile. Another key element is Google's continued reliance on Next.js, a JavaScript framework that lets web developers build server-side rendering and static web applications.

Google has made significant open source contributions to Next.js, including code that allows webpages to load images faster. Platform developer Vercel and Next.js provide many critical capabilities that enable developers to ensure their sites rise in rankings based on performance improvements.

The implementation of Google Core Web Vitals as a critical aspect of search placement moves web developers completely into a new era of user-experience-driven. That directly impacts developer-driven, business success criteria.

Website performance increases have real business impact. Barely measurable improvements can result in the gain or loss of substantial amounts of revenue to web sites large and small, according to project developers. The ability to measure fully and accurately, and then easily and quickly improve the things that matter most to users is the key determinant of business success today.

6 Years in the Making

Google began giving search ranking preference to web pages using AMP In 2016. The open-source project AMP technology enabled developers to create web pages that load faster on mobile devices. But getting faster results took considerable effort from the developers of those web pages.

Since the introduction of AMP, newer technologies -- particularly the popular Next.js -- brought not only an ability to improve website performance but also improved the developer experience.

Last year, Google and the Web Performance Working Group introduced Core Web Vitals to track how users experience the performance of websites. Core Web Vitals measure aspects of website performance that are uniformly critical to user experience.

Google has tried to help educate developers on how to build for the web faster. The company also tried to incentivize developers with coding tools like AMP to give higher placement in search, along with providing Featured Snippets at the top of search results, according to Lee Robinson, head of developer advocacy at Vercel, creator of Next.js.

Ultimately, faster pages provide a better experience for the users of Google, and that is where they were trying to help nudge the developer community.

"Developers really did not like that. They did not like having to add Google's specific code to their applications. It created a little bit of backlash around that," Robinson told TechNewsWorld.

So instead, Google realized that the core goal was to make fast websites and shifted its focus to providing a better application which they call Core Web Vitals. Essentially it is a different way to measure a website's performance in terms of what Google is looking for, he explained.

Google looked at the millions of web pages and crafted performance metrics for all these pages. If a website is passing in the green on all these vitals, Google will rank it higher than that business's competitors. This process has been in the works for a few years.

The search giant silently announced it a few years ago, letting developers know changes were coming to the search algorithm. Google metaphorically threw the switch last month.

In typical fashion, nobody really starts to care until it actually happens, as it did last month. Now rankings are changing as the new algorithm looks for those new web vitals indicators, noted Robinson.

Devs Respect Clarity

The buy-in for web developers is optimizing their websites to comply with the new ranking rules based on the new priorities. Developers can now take the clear guidelines from Google back to their companies.

Developers right away love that there is clarity on what they need to do to get their site or performance regarding SEO, Robinson said. While the new metrics will improve the performance of the web as a whole, it is definitely targeted more towards enterprise because they have the most to lose if their site is performing slowly.

"Google clarified for developers that the new ranking has to do with your relation to your ranking with your peers and with your competitors. So if you have Apple and Samsung both ranking for phones, but Apple's website is twice as fast, that algorithm is going to give preference to that faster site as one of the factors," Robinson said.

Unfortunately, Google's early ranking changes were challenging for web developers to react to, according to Jordan Adler, engineering manager for OneSignal.

"The specific mechanisms of measurement were unclear, and Google often had to delay or soften the rollout of these changes so as to not over-emphasize mobile usability over other ranking factors," he told TechNewsWorld.

Additionally, these changes were focused more on responsive web design than overall mobile user experience, Adler added.

Work in Progress

Speaking about clarity, Robinson added in response to a question that the current deployment of these Core Web Vitals is no doubt the first phase of an ongoing refinement process.

His understanding of Google's work on the new algorithm from his experience with the development team is the process will be a continuous effort to understand how to empower developers to build fast websites.

"I think the guidance around what makes a website fast will likely update over time as we get more and more metrics and data on real world usage of these things, but I think the core principles of what makes vitals are pretty solid," he said.

That seems to fit the pattern of what Google has already done in prioritizing the mobile user web experience, according to Adler.

"As the primary device used to navigate the web increasingly becomes mobile phones, Google and other search engines have been prioritizing the mobile user experience as part of their ranking approach," he said.

This work really began in 2015 with the Mobilegeddon update. It continued with subsequent updates, he added.

How the New Algorithm Helps

Core Web Vitals advances these goals by creating a small set of specific and well-defined metrics that can be used by Google Search and other properties to measure website performance, explained Adler. These performance metrics are specifically defined to combat existing mobile UX problems on the web.

For example, the First Contentful Paint (FCP) metric is intended to measure page load speed. On mobile devices, internet speed is often slower, so page load is a much more meaningful consideration, he said. The First Input Delay (FID) provides the first feedback to the user that the page is actually loading.

The FID is intended to measure responsiveness to user input. Nobody wants to see a page load quickly, tap on a UI element, and then wait multiple seconds for a response, said Adler about why the metrics are necessary. The FID metric helps measure a web visitor's first impression of the site's interactivity and responsiveness.

Finally, the Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS) metric is intended to measure the presence of what was formerly called "jank" and is now called layout shift. This is the experience of having a page's click/tap targets move while you engage with the page. It is one of the most frustrating pain points for mobile users.

"These specific, well-defined metrics enable web developers to improve their mobile-friendliness and overall web app performance by measuring themselves. Unlike Mobilegeddon, devs can understand their impact on Core Web Vitals by measuring themselves using tooling like Lighthouse," Adler observed.

Lighthouse is a tool built by Google specifically to provide actionable feedback to web developers as it relates to performance, SEO, accessibility, and other targeted areas of ecosystem enhancement.

Jack M. Germain has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2003. His main areas of focus are enterprise IT, Linux and open-source technologies. He is an esteemed reviewer of Linux distros and other open-source software. In addition, Jack extensively covers business technology and privacy issues, as well as developments in e-commerce and consumer electronics. Email Jack.


In a nutshell: People who have lost the ability to speak due to severe paralysis might have hope for a better way to communicate, thanks to technology that essentially reads their thoughts and translates them to words and complete sentences in real-time. By tapping into the part of the brain that controls the voice box, researchers have figured out how to read those signals and turn them into words with sophisticated AI.

Researchers at the University of Califonia San Francisco developed a way to allow people with speech loss to communicate with their brains. The technology uses neural networks to translate brainwaves into words and phrases. It is a breakthrough because until now, the best neuroprosthetic technology has provided is letter-by-letter translations, which is very slow.

Aside from the highly refined algorithms, the new method taps the part of the brain that sends signals to the voicebox. Previous techniques used brain areas that controlled the hand or arm. It seems almost too obvious that scientists should have used this section of the brain from the start, but such is neurological research.

In developing the system, UCSF researchers recorded brain signals of volunteer subjects with unimpaired speech. The scientists fed the patterns to neural networks, which learned to decode them in real-time. They also applied a statistical language model to improve algorithm accuracy.

The researchers' main obstacle was whether or not the area that controls speech would function the same way in impaired subjects as it did with those with normal speech. So they employed an anonymous impaired volunteer (Bravo1) and worked to create a simple 50-word vocabulary to feed the algorithmspractical words he could use in everyday life like water, good, I, yes, no, and so forth.

During testing, the team asked Bravo1 simple questions such as "How are you?" or "Do you need anything?" When Bravo1 tried to reply verbally, the computer would translate his impulses into phrases like, "I am fine," or "No, I don't need anything."

"To our knowledge, this is the first successful demonstration of direct decoding of full words from the brain activity of someone who is paralyzed and cannot speak," said UCSF neurosurgeon Edward Chang and Professor Jeanne Robertson, senior author on the study. "It shows strong promise to restore communication by tapping into the brain's natural speech machinery."

The system is still relatively slow. It can translate up to 18 words a minutefor comparison, unimpaired people can speak at about 200 words per minute. Still, it is faster than any other previous neuroprosthetic system developed. It has a peak translation accuracy of 93 percent and a median of 75 percent.

However, this is just the start of an expanding study. The team's next steps are to increase the number of test subjects, expand the system's vocabulary, and improve the rate of speech translation.
A fast-moving solar storm has been making some noise since various news sites, and even space agencies claim that it could hit Earth last July 13. However, it seems like the space activity is not true since it did not take place.

The theory appeared after various space researchers experienced disruptions in communications, radio communications, and GPS satellites.

NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration), NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), and other big agencies claimed that the said solar storm or solar flare is considered category X1, the largest fastest of its kind.

According to First Post's previous report, the first solar storm took place last July 3. Various space experts claimed that the solar winds might cause a geomagnetic storm in the sun's magnetosphere.

NASA explained that this space phenomenon happens about eight times within an average of an 11-year solar cycle. This is still a high number if you will consider it. On the other hand, the space agency added that if the X1 solar storm took place, it will only affect the part of the Earth-facing the massive solar flare or the sun.

Fast-Moving Solar Storm Will Not Happen?

WRAL.COM reported that the strongest fast-moving solar storm was also identified on July 3. NASA said that it is classified as X1.5 type, which is way larger than the largest main category of solar flares. SWPC and NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory claimed that it is the largest one ever recorded for the past four years.

Also Read: Jupiter 40-Year Mystery Solved | Astronomers Find Electrical X-ray Auroras 'Surfing' Electromagnetic Waves!

However, experts claimed that the other rumored solar flare will not happen since the Space Weather Prediction Center did not issue any warning or watches ever since July 1. They added that the latest forecast of SWPC for the alleged solar storm only shows a 1% chance.

This also means that solar radiation storms and radio blackouts are unlikely to take place. On the other hand, the so-called Planetary K-index also shows lower levels of solar flare chances.

Aside from this, various recent SWPC forecasts also showed that the Earth's geomagnetic field is at the "quite to active levels," as well as super low solar activity levels. This means that the sun's current status is not enough to trigger space weather storms.

What Will Happen If Fast-Moving Solar Flare Takes Place?

According to Yahoo News' latest report, a category X1 solar flare could breach the Earth's magnetic field.

This will not be good for the planet since power grids, satellite TVs, mobile phone signals, and GPS navigation will all be affected. It could lead to life-threatening instances, especially for those people who are traveling by airplanes.

As of the moment, NASA, NOAA, and SWPC still haven't released further proof regarding the alleged fast-moving solar storm.

For more news updates about solar flares and other dangerous space activities, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

Related Article: Perseids Meteor Shower 2021: Best Smartphone Settings To Use, Viewing Peak Schedule, and More

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Written by: Griffin Davis

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : GettlyImages/ Pool) FTC Lina Khan

Facebook has officially filed a petition on July 15 to have the Federal Trade Commission, or FTC chairwoman Lina Khan recused from the agency's ongoing antitrust lawsuit against the social media giant.

Facebook Wants FTC Chair Removed

Facebook argued in its petition that FTC chairwoman Khan had made public statements accusing the company of band conduct that is deemed as a violation of the antitrust law.

Facebook said that Khan's personal judgment towards the company should be enough grounds for recusal as she has already made up her mind about the company's liability in the case.

Now, the FTC has a few weeks to decide on whether to file an amended complaint in its antitrust case against the social media company in federal court after a judge dismissed the initial claims during Facebook's FTC investigation.

Also Read: Facebook to Face Antitrust Investigation in the UK Just Days After it Won Case in France

The FTC could decide to try the case internally before passing it on to the administrative law judge, according to Reuters.

Facebook is not the only company that filed the petition. Amazon also asked for Khan's recusal from antitrust probes based on her criticism of the e-commerce company.

Khan garnered fame after she published "Amazon's Antitrust Paradox" in the Yale Law Journal while she was a student back in 2017, according to Apple Insider.

Khan's article stated that the unique business models of Amazon must be thoroughly assessed with an expansive framework for antitrust laws aside from the consumer welfare standard, which usually leans on whether the prices increase or decrease for consumers.

Khan also wrote in the article that the new framework could help people understand why companies like Amazon, whose platform prioritizes growth, might also be taking advantage of pricing.

Facebook wrote in the petition that it agrees with Amazon's arguments for its own petition, citing past cases where commissioners were recused because of prejudgment, according to Time Magazine.

Khan's Work Prior to FTC

Before getting the position as chairwoman for FTC, Khan worked for Democrats on the House Judiciary subcommittee on antitrust, where she helped file the report on businesses such as Facebook, Apple, Amazon, and Google that found each company holds monopoly power. Khan reportedly makes recommendations for legal reform.

Khan also worked as a legal director for Open Markets Institute, an advocacy group that has pushed for government agencies to keep a close eye on tech firms and their business practices.

Facebook stated that while Khan was the legal director for Open Markets, the Institute advocated for the FTC to reverse its approval of Facebook's acquisitions of WhatsApp and Instagram.

During her confirmation hearing before the Senate, she was questioned about whether she would have to recuse herself from cases involving tech companies due to the nature of her past work.

Khan said that she did not have any conflicts that would be grounds for her recusal and that she would follow all the facts given on the cases and not rely on her prejudgment.

This is not the first time that an FTC chair was asked to be removed from a case. In 1970, an FTC chairman was ordered to be removed from a case involving TV advertising for children due to his past criticism of the practices. However, an appeals court overturned the ruling, and he was kept in his position.

The FTC has not commented on Facebook's petition for the recusal of FTC chairwoman Khan.

Related Article: Amazon Wants FTC Chair Khan Removed From Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Acquisition Issue, Claiming She Is Bias

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Sophie Webster

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Indonesia has now surpassed India in terms of the total number of COVID-19 cases, making the country the new COVID epicenter in Asia.

According to various reports, the Asian nation tallied more than 54,000 new COVID cases on Wednesday alone. It is the third straight day of record-breaking daily rise in the number of new cases.

The country recorded 991 deaths on Wednesday as well.

Indonesia Faces Continues COVID Surge

According to Newsweek, the rise in COVID-19 cases in Indonesia has been attributed by Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin to the spread to the Delta variant outside of Java and Bali.

University of Indonesia epidemiology expert Pandu Riono has likewise been quoted in the report, saying that "Emergency social restrictions are still inadequate. They should be twice as stringent since we are facing the Delta variant, which is two times more contagious."

The epidemiologist said that he predicts that the surge in Indonesia COVID cases will continue throughout July.

Related Article: WHO Claims COVID-19 Delta Strain Could Be the Most Dominant! What Vaccine Can Prevent It?

Indonesia Becomes New COVID Epicenter in Asia

With the recent surge in COVID cases, Indonesia has now surpassed India to become the new epicenter of COVID-19 in the Asian continent.

According to The New York Times, India has seen a decline in its caseload with only around 40,000 daily cases. India's COVID-19 caseload peaked at 414,000 in early May.

In Indonesia, total cases have gone above 2.6 million while recorded deaths have reached beyond 69,000. Among the recent fatalities is the chief scientist of the Sinovac vaccine in the country.

Indonesia's COVID Crisis Continues to Worsen

As the COVID crisis began to worsen early this month, Indonesia faced an oxygen outage in its hospitals.

Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin also said Tuesday that 90,000 beds in the country have been occupied out of the total of 120,000, according to the Newsweek report.

Java and Bali, which first saw a spread in the Delta variant, were forced into partial lockdowns to try and curb the spread of the virus. Java, in particular, has seen an overflow of patients in its hospitals. The New York Times report says that "hundreds of people have been reported to have died of the virus at home because of a lack of oxygen and as a result of an overwhelmed health care system."

Indonesian Government to Use Moderna Vaccines as Boosters

According to the same New York Times report, the Indonesian government is planning on using Moderna vaccines as booster shots for 1.5 million health workers in the country. The Moderna vaccines are a donation from the United States.

Per the Newsweek report, 15.6 million Indonesians have been fully vaccinated out of the country's total population of 270 million people. The government's goal is to fully vaccinate 181 million of its citizens by March 2022.

Also Read: New COVID-19 Study Shows Why Delta Can Evade Immune System and How It Becomes US Most Dominant Variant

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Written by Isabella James

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Elon Musk claimed that Tesla is going to "die" if he wouldn't be at the helm of the electric vehicle giant, but that he "rather hates" being the boss of anything.

If being the chief executive of Tesla is something that Musk does not enjoy, what does he fancy doing instead?

Elon Musk and Tesla in Court

The billionaire CEO made the revelation as he was testifying in court after the shareholders of Tesla pursued suing him, Interesting Engineering reported.

Musk was then defending the move of Tesla to purchase a solar energy company, SolarCity, which was owned by two of his cousins.

The Tesla boss was brought to court by the shareholders of his own company after they accused Musk of conflict of interest. They further noted that the billionaire owned at least 22% stake from SolarCity.

Now, Musk is defending the decisions he made back in 2016. Moreover, he denied the accusations that the Tesla shareholders were throwing against him.

Elon Musk: Tesla to 'Die'

The pronouncements of Musk claiming that Tesla is going to collapse if he leaves as the CEO came as he was being queried about his role in the EV titan, as per Yahoo News.

The Tesla CEO goes on to reveal that, "I rather hate it and I would much prefer to spend my time on design and engineering."

Musk further noted that the latter is what he really fancy doing after all. The CEO also admitted that he personally does not like being a boss even elsewhere.

However, even if his preferences are against his current situation, Musk claimed that his company will go into shackles if not without him at the top, saying that "Tesla is going to die."

After that bold revelation, the Tesla boss did not expound about why his company could not live without him as the chief executive.

Read Also: Tesla's Elon Musk Lives in a Small $50K Prefabricated House in Boca Chica, Texas

Elon Musk and Other Court Revelations

In the same hearing wherein Musk was testifying, he also made some claims that involved the current supply situation of the Tesla Powerwall. The Tesla boss claimed that the production output of the solar energy shortage system is lagging behind the actual demand,

To be precise, he told the people inside the Delaware Chancery court that the demand for the Powerwall is at 80,000 units. On the other hand, the company could only manufacture as much as 35,000, which is less than half of the consumer's clamor for it.

The billionaire CEO blamed the prevailing chip shortage crisis, noting that the production mess is continuing until September ends. Meanwhile, here are the numerous times wherein the Tesla CEO made it to the headlines.

Related Article: Elon Musk Tweets Inviting People to Visit China, Praise Infrastructure of Tesla's Next 'Biggest Market'

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Written by Teejay Boris

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : Photo by Shoval Zonnis from Pexels)

Captain Craig Alexander sued Delta Air Lines Inc. for more than 1 billion dollars as he claimed that they stole his app.

The app was a text-messaging app used for flight crews that the airline stole and used as a blueprint for its app, Alexander mentioned.

Delta said that they aren't accurate nor a fair description of how the airlines operate.

What Was Allegedly Stolen

Captain Alexander sued the Atlanta-based Delta for using trade-secrets theft in the Georgia state court on Monday. He said that he spent $100,000 of his own money developing an app called QrewLive.

He pitched it through the airline as a means of crew communication snafus right after disrupted flights.

Bloomberg was able to report that Delta then turned Captain Alexander down, but then went on and launched a very identical tool, as he claimed.

Keenan Nix, Alexander's lawyer said that the airline "stole like a thief in the night," and then defrauded its own loyal employee. Alexander is an 11-year veteran of Delta, flying a Delta 757 even "as we speak" in an interview on Wednesday.

Delta faced the accusations.

"While we take the allegations specified in Mr. Alexander's complaint seriously, they are not an accurate or fair description of Delta's development of its internal crew messaging platform" says Morgan Durrant, spokesperson for Delta.

Read More: Surgeon General Attends To Medical Emergency on Delta Flight

What Went Down

Back in August 2016, There was a five-hour power outage resulting in hundreds of flight cancellations during that time and cost Delta $150 million.

Alexander went out and emailed Chief Executive Officer Ed Bastian during that time and said that he had a solution for the problem. Bastian then allegedly responded and referred Alexander to the company's chief information officer.

Bastian and Rahul Samant, CIO, are both named in the lawsuit alongside four other Delta top brass.

Alexander said several positive meetings occurred during 2015 and 2016. The top brass made it clear to Alexander at that time that they were very much interested in the app itself.

However, this was not the case, and eventually cut off discussions entirely and launched its own crew app in April 2018 now called Flight Family Communications.

The Billion Dollar Lawsuit

Alexander said that the "'FFC' is a carbon copy, knock-off of the role-based text messaging component of Craig's proprietary QrewLive communications platform."

The pilot also noted in the lawsuit that Bastian and Samant both boasted to their investors how smooth the app operated, as told by Engadget.

Alexander is seeking not only at least $1 billion as the operational costs and savings from the app he developed saved Delta over $1 billion, but punitive damage as well.

The suit claims that Captain Alexander is still using the FCC app everyday and it truly hurts him as he is reminded of what Delta airlines has done to his proprietary trade secrets for their financial benefit.

The case is named Alexander v. Delta Air Lines Inc., 21A03275, Georgia State Court, DeKalb County.

If you're interested in more of these kinds of content, continue following us on Tech Times as we post content like these every single day.

Read More: Woman Placed on Leave After Video Of Her Screaming At A Flight Attendant Goes Viral

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Written by Alec G.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : Unsplash)

Designed to be a simple and easy test to identify the early signs of dementia, a new app has been paired with an AI that uses algorithms that can learn and adapt by itself.

The AI automatically detects if a person has either poor visual recognition skills, or a alower than normal reactions based on the test results.

How Does The App Fair?

It's a straightforward test that everyone can use as it only uses images and little movement and over just a minute.

Basically, the app uses split-second images of animals and other things.

Volunteers said that the test seems "fun" but has serious motives, as reported by the BBC.

Dr. Thomas Sawyer is part of the firm that developed the app as well as chief operating officer of Cognitivity Neurosciences says: "It's a kind of early warning system for cognitive impairment ... The tool solves a global problem. Early impairment is just not detected."

Dr. Sawyer continued by saying, "This could have a huge impact on outcomes for patients, and healthcare systems because late diagnosis costs trillions of dollars every year in global healthcare."

Read More: AI, Nanotechnology May Help Solve World Hunger via 'Precision Agriculture,' Thanks to Research

How Would It Work For The Public?

As the health app is being released, anyone who wants or is curious to test can visit their doctor. A digital red flag would then bring you to an in-person specialist consultation regarding the matter.

Changes in your lifestyle will be implemented and that could lead to potentially delaying dementia for years; possibly prolonging an individual's health.

Digital diagnostic tools that use AI are popping up left and right to help combat all kinds of health conditions that humans are susceptible to. Tools such as analyzing brain scans of acute stroke patients or pattern-recognition technology can assist the detection of cancers for the unaware.

With the help of AI geared towards human health, it can lead to medical breakthroughs for drugs and treatments.

AI Aids Health

AI software now can rapidly sift through a library of medical records.

Robert Wachter, professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco said, "Taking in data... an enormous amount of [research] could theoretically be done more accurately, with better information, prognosis and recommendation, by AI."

The UK's National Health Service has a large library of diverse datasets that can be used strategically to benefit from the use of AI for a healthcare boom.

"If you combine a very large, very diverse population, with the ability to take data from all over the system and computerize it and make sense of it, I can't see any place that has an advantage over the NHS in doing that," says Wachter.

However, it seems that there might still be a push back from the Labour Party as they fear that it may commercialize the data and use it for profit instead. The NHS announced earlier this year that they plan on creating a centralized NHS digital database of all GP records in England.

Read More: Paralyzed Man is Able to Speak Thanks to Speech Neuroprosthetic Which Decodes Brain Waves

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Written by Alec G.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
NASA wants to explore planting chile peppers in space on its way to the International Space Station (ISS).

The New Mexico variant called the "Espanola improved" will be the first-ever of its kind that will be cultivated in the soil outside the earth. So far, the international space agency said that the chile peppers will be able to survive the harsh conditions of the new environment.

In line with the Plant Habitat-04 experiment, NASA aims to achieve certain goals for the astronauts who will be taking part in the said project.

The First Fruit to Grow in the ISS

Back in 2019, NASA revealed the name of the fruit that would be sent to the International Space Station. During that time, the space agency had selected the Espanola chile pepper (also known as Capsicum annuum), which scientists described as a suitable plant that would thrive in a different setup.

Besides its short growth period, the chile peppers have been known to be adaptive at places with high altitudes. They are also easy to grow and are good sources of nutrients, such as antioxidants and minerals.

At that time, NASA physiologist Ryan Wheeler said they chose the said variety since they do not grow tall.

They are also manageable for the astronauts.

The original schedule to plane the chile peppers in the ISS was between November 2019 and January 2020. However, what happened was NASA managed to plant them last April 2021 ob-boarding the CRS-22 flight.

Read Also: Tupperware Helps NASA Astronauts Grow Healthier Vegetables In Space

NASA Astronauts Will Grow the Peppers in Four Months

Three months ago, NASA said that the chile peppers would inhabit the APH (advanced plant habitat), which houses the sensors. It is also responsible for regulating carbon dioxide concentration and moisture levels, as well as the temperature in the atmosphere.

The space agency said that the habitat is also assigned for data transmission. The information is then gathered by the sensors.

The Purpose of the Space Chile Pepper Mission

The Spoon reported that the plan to grow the chile peppers in space is not only for merely cultivating the seeds.

The reason why NASA chose the said fruit is that it will become a staple source of energy for the astronauts on their mission. Moreover, the PH-04 experiment will help NASA assess the changes in the flavor and texture of the peppers.

This will also pave the way for the astronauts to have an established "indoor grow system" for the chile peppers. This would help them grow the plants outside the planet, and know more about their differences when planted in a foreign place.

Besides the "space chile peppers," NASA had successfully planted the first radish crops in space over the past year.

In 2020, the journal published in Frontiers revealed that the mentioned vegetables were safe to be eaten by the astronauts.

Related Article: NASA may send greenhouse, plants to Mars by 2021. Organic tomatoes out, galactic tomatoes in

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Written by Joseph Henry

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Google Chrome's built-in screenshot button is reportedly slated to be included in the share menu option of the browser.

The leak suggested that desktop users of the Google browser could soon be able to capture the contents of their screen in a few clicks.

Google Chrome Share Menu

XDADevelopers first spotted, on May 12, that Google Chrome for desktop is developing a share button inside the address bar of the browser, which compiles the currently scattered sharing options within the app.

So, having a single menu option containing all these sharing functions is something that Google decided to pursue in the future builds of Chrome.

To further illustrate the existing problem, options such as "Scan QR Code" and "Send to your devices" are both found on the Omnibox of Chrome, whereas functions like "cast" and "save page as" are located elsewhere in the three-dot menu.

To answer the mess, Google decided to add a single icon on the address bar, which will include all the functions that lie under the category of sharing. Thus, by clicking the airplane button, features like casting will readily appear.

Google Chrome Built-in Screenshot Tool

Now, a Reddit user who goes by the username Leopeva64-2 disclosed that Google Chrome now has a built-in screenshot button.

However, it is still hidden away within the plethora of developer tools of the browser.

The Reddit user further revealed that the hidden tool is meant to be added in the "centralized" share menu that Google is currently working on.

Furthermore, the user noted that the Share submenu button aims to "centralize and deduplicate the various sharing options that are currently scattered across various menus."

As the new screenshot tool graced the developer build of Chrome, the share menu has also welcomed new options, such as "Send to your devices" and "share link to," which allows users to send the web address to Facebook, Email, and other services.

It is still unclear if the screenshot button of Chrome will have additional options that would allow users to capture a specific part of the screen or further edit it.

To add, there is no official announcement from Google if the share menu or the screenshot button specifically are coming to the version of the browser that the general public use.

Read Also: Google Chrome Rolls Out New Feature That Captions Audio and Video in Real-Time

Google Chrome Android 12 Beta: Link-Sharing Option

Meanwhile, Google was also spotted by 9to5Google to be working on a share option for the mobile version of Chrome.

The beta update included a share button on the right side of the address bar, which provides options to copy the link or share it upon tapping.

Yet again, it is still unknown if the fresh feature for mobile is coming to the stable release.

In other Chrome related news, Google decided to delayed blocking cookies up until 2023. Here's what is causing the delay.

Related Article: Google Chrome 90 Brings Security Improvements, Default Protocol HTTP Becomes HTTPS and Some Developer Changes

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Written by Teejay Boris

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : Screenshot From PlayStation Official Website) Sony PS5 Restock July 2021 Via Email Confirmed | July 16, 2021 3PM ET Drop

Sony PS5 Restock July 2021 is coming soon as a confirmed email blast has been inviting buyers to get one from Sony directly.

A PS5 restock tracker on Twitter just confirmed that for those that were able to get an email from Sony inviting them to purchase a new PlayStation 5 stock on Friday, July 16, 2021 3PM ET, then it is legitimate.

Sony Direct PS5 Restock Online

Although it seems like only the buyers that got the invite would be able to purchase the PS5 stock online, the restock tracker Matt Swider noted that people should not panic.

According to him, Sony actually often opens up the virtual queue for all, usually at 5PM ET at the exact same day.

The restock tracker noted that it is not always, however.

Since the Sony Direct PS5 restock is coming soon, it's worth noting that the competition to buy the new console is still very steep. There are, however, a few guidelines that can be followed in order to increase chances of purchasing the PS5 new stock online.

PS5 Online Stock Through Email Invite

The first thing buyers can do is to wait for the waiting room countdown to officially expire. This will then put them in a randomized virtual queue and give them a higher chance of purchasing the console. Buyers should then open the link in a new different browser or devices in order to increase their chances.

The key is to not open the link in different tabs but in different browsers or in different devices.

The waiting time that says "more than an hour" is quite normal, and for those that are lucky, they will move right away.

Buyers are also encouraged to also have their PSN accounts ready as well.

Read Also: Effective PS5 Restock Tracker | Buyers Successfully Purchase Console

Scalpers and the Global Chip Shortage

The difficulty in purchasing the PlayStation 5 restock has been going on since the console's launch in November 2020.

According to an article by Bloomberg, scalpers have been purchasing the console through the use of bots automatically placing orders whenever the console pops up on different online retailers.

The good thing about the email invite by Sony Direct is that users will be able to have a chance to be prioritized by the system itself.

Of course, this does not guarantee a 100% chance that buyers will be able to pick up the console. The good thing, however, is that due to the randomized que, scalpers will have more difficulty in purchasing the console.

The PS5 restock is not the online electronic that is currently being targeted by scalpers. The Xbox Series X restock is also another big console being targeted by certain scalpers online. Buying an Xbox Series X nowadays is just as difficult as buying the PS5 restock online.

Certain PC parts like GPUs and CPUs have also swelled in price as a result of scalpers reselling them and the global chip shortage.

Related Article: PS5 Restock July 2021 Prediction | Tracker Hints New Stock on July 8, 2021

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Written by Urian B.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
DCMS publishes Media Literacy Strategy to support positive experiences online

DCMS has published the long-awaited Media Literacy Strategy which aims to support organisations to undertake media literacy activity in a more coordinated, wide reaching, and high-quality way over the next 3 years.

The publication of the DCMS Media Literacy Strategy provides useful insight into the media literacy capabilities of society, while striving to stimulate activity in the UK which both supports online safety and encourages users to make the most of what the internet has to offer.

To go hand in hand with the draft Online Safety Bill, the Media Literacy Strategy shows the Governments commitment to education and empowerment of all internet users through digital skills and resilience-based initiatives which enable positive experiences online.

Media Literacy Landscape

In the UK, over 170 online platforms, academics, civil society organisations, news organisations and education providers are supporting media literacy, although research by Ipsos Mori and Google provides a range of key stats outlining why media literacy initiatives are still in demand:

55% of users are interested in learning more about how to use tools to distinguish between true and false information

only 9% of users had participated in media literacy training related to misinformation and disinformation

66% believed that it would be appropriate for internet and technology companies to provide training to improve users critical thinking

61% of users felt they would be most interested in learning online

What is the Media Literacy Strategy?

The Media Literacy Strategy is intended to complement, not duplicate, the existing media literacy landscape through the acknowledgement that government can have the greatest impact by working with the sector to improve and increase activity.

The Strategy includes a principles-based framework, a set of strategic sector priorities and an overview of the cross-sector challenges. This contributes towards four key ambitions:

Set out a strategic direction for the future of media literacy in the UK Ensure a coordinated approach to media literacy activity Address key gaps within the media literacy landscape Reduce barriers and create opportunities for organisations undertaking media literacy activity

Media Literacy Framework

The Media Literacy Framework is one part of the Strategy which highlights 5 principles supporting media literacy capabilities and a list of actions which online platforms could take to promote and stimulate media literacy.

Principle 1  users should understand the risks of sharing personal data online , how that data can be used by others, and are able to take action to protect their privacy online (p. 24)

 users should , how that data can be used by others, and are able to take action to protect their privacy online (p. 24) Principle 2  users should understand how the online environment operates and use this to inform decisions online (p. 28)

 users should and use this to inform decisions online (p. 28) Principle 3  users should understand how different content is created and be able to critically analyse the content they consume (p.32)

 users should and be able to critically analyse the content they consume (p.32) Principle 4  users should understand that actions online have consequences offline and use this understanding in their online interactions (p.35)

 users should and use this understanding in their online interactions (p.35) Principle 5  users should be able to participate in online engagement and contribute to making a positive environment whilst undertaking the risks of engaging with others (p. 38)

Strategic Sector Priorities

There are 8 'Strategic Sector Priorities' listed in the Strategy which range from cross-sector collaboration to taking action to promote political literacy and investing more in promoting media literacy to their users both in terms of literacy by design choices and in person.

Under these priorities, it is outlined how 'good platform design can strengthen media literacy through the inclusion of features which support users to make more informed decisions', with reference to the efforts of online platforms to combat misinformation and disinformation through a range of techniques including prompts and nudges.

techUK is pleased to see reference to the ongoing efforts to combat misinformation and disinformation within the Strategy and we firmly support the strategic priorities including the need to enhance collaboration across sectors and achieve the maximum positive impact on society.

Media Literacy Challenges

The Strategy outlines six cross-sector challenges to supporting media literacy including evaluation, funding, hard-to-reach audiences, vulnerable users, building audience resilience to disinformation and coordination.

To address these challenges, the Government has published an annual Media Literacy Action Plan which is found in Annex B of the Media Literacy Strategy (p. 106). This Plan will be initially funded with 340k from the 2021/22 financial year and includes setting up a media literacy taskforce, creating an online portal, upskilling librarians and developing media literacy communications campaigns.

How does this strategy link to the draft Online Safety Bill?

The Media Literacy Strategy is a voluntary non-binding document which sits alongside the draft Online Safety Bill but is not part of it.

Ofcom will have powers under the new legislation to promote media literacy which will build on existing provision in the Communications Act 2003, although these powers will not come into effect until the legislation is implemented which could be several years away.

In the meantime, the Government is committed to addressing some of the challenges identified in the Media Literacy Strategy through its annual Media Literacy Action Plans.

What does techUK think?

Enhancing digital skills and empowering users to be more resilient to potential online risks could not be more important to enable positive online experiences and techUK is delighted to see the publication of the Media Literacy Strategy.

We must now put in efforts to ensure that this Strategy remains a top priority alongside the draft Online Safety Bill as this will be crucial to create a balanced approach which does not undermine online opportunity for society.

techUK members have several successful initiatives in place supporting media literacy and digital skills and collectively we look forward to continuing our work in partnership with DCMS, Ofcom and a range of NGOs to enhance our efforts to create safer online spaces for society.
The Ah Haa School for the Arts is currently looking for teachers. (Courtesy photo)
Madisonville, KY (42431)

Today

Considerable clouds this morning. Some decrease in clouds later in the day. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 87F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. Low 66F. Winds light and variable.
RSV infections on the rise

What is it?

Respiratory syncytial virus is a highly contagious respiratory virus that usually spreads during the winter but is surging this summer.

How do I know if my child has RSV?

Fever, cough, runny nose, trouble breathing and loss of appetite are common symptoms. RSV can run its course like a common cold; most children do not require intensive medical care to fight it off. Infections tend to be at their worst on days three through five.

When should I seek medical intervention?

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Louisiana pediatricians say that if children are grunting as they try to breathe, taking more than 60 breaths per minute or if you can see their muscles contracting in their back or chest as they try to breathe, thats a sign that you should seek medical help. Babies who were born premature, those with cystic fibrosis and other respiratory problems should be especially closely monitored.

How is RSV treated?

There is no cure or specific treatment for RSV. Parents can manage symptoms at home by keeping their children hydrated and keeping their noses free of secretions. Some doctors advise Motrin or Tylenol for treating fever and honey to help soothe coughing in babies over age one. Children who are hospitalized with RSV might receive oxygen, intravenous hydration and suctioning.

How can I avoid it?

RSV spreads through respiratory droplets (like coughs) and surfaces. Wash your hands frequently and stay away from others who are sick.
Lilliana Credeurs mother grew more and more worried about her as the 3-week-old infants breath sped up.

She was breathing really, really fast and she would stop breathing, said Ashley Credeur, 38, of St. Martinville. I was too scared to have to wait for an ambulance, she was so limp and lethargic.

Credeur packed up her baby and sped to Iberia Medical Center, where they stabilized Liliana before transporting her to Our Lady of Lourdes Womens and Childrens Hospital in Lafayette. Liliana had already been diagnosed with respiratory syncytial virus, better known as RSV, and it was wreaking havoc through her tiny body.

The diagnosis was a paradox, both surprising and anticlimactic at the same time. RSV cases are surging across Southern states  Louisianas Department of Health has officially deemed it RSV season, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a warning about the spread.

But RSV does not usually skyrocket in the summer  in fact, its known as a winter virus and the leading cause of hospitalization among babies under age 1. For hospitals to be chock-full of little ones with RSV in the middle of July is unprecedented, providers say.

This is the first time that Ive ever seen a large-scale outbreak in the summertime in the past 20 years, said Dr. Jay Hescock, who works for Childrens Hospital in New Orleans as an LSU Health Hospitalist Section chief.

Pediatricians say they are drained, working longer hours and extra shifts, burning through personal protective equipment and wondering if the surge in cases will let up. Louisiana childrens hospitals are scrambling to find enough beds and staffers to take care of all of the RSV cases, and many have had to stop accepting transfers from other hospitals with their own buildings brimming past capacity.

As the coronavirus delta variant moves through Louisiana  largely affecting adults so far  RSV is sweeping through children, many of whom have been cooped up for more than a year amid coronavirus restrictions that have recently been lifted.

The cases were seeing right now are definitely more than what were used to seeing during regular season, and the severity is definitely worse than before, said Dr. Reynaldo dela Rosa, a Lafayette pediatric intensivist who oversees the pediatric intensive care unit at Our Lady of Lourdes Women's and Children's Hospital.

Were hoping it will trickle down, but theres no signs of it, he added.

Our Lady of the Lake Childrens Hospital, for example, has been averaging 90 inpatients in recent weeks, with as many as 10 to 15 waiting for inpatient rooms to free up at any given time. At this time last summer, though, the hospital was averaging numbers that were half  or even three-fourths  lower, with their average census ranging from 32 to 45.

The states Department of Health deems it RSV season when the percent positivity rate of RSV tests is more than 10%. The state stayed under that number until mid-May, when positive RSV cases jumped nearly 10 percentage points to just under 20%. Cases have continued to climb, and positive RSV cases at the beginning of July reached nearly 30%.

Those numbers still dont capture the full picture of the states outbreak. Hospitalized children are tested for the virus, but some pediatricians dont recommend testing for milder cases because there is no cure for RSV. Confirming its diagnosis does not usually change the treatment for typical symptoms of a virus: making sure children are properly hydrated, not struggling to breathe and keeping their airways clear.

'One thing after another'

As people wore masks, avoided large gatherings and washed their hands more than usual to stem the spread of the coronavirus last year, other viruses fell off as well. RSV was one of them, as was the flu.

But as soon as things loosened up with COVID restrictions, weve had one thing after the other, said Dr. Ashley Lucas, Our Lady of the Lakes medical director of pediatric primary care.

First it was croup, a virus that affects upper airways. Then it was hand, foot and mouth disease, also caused by viruses that can lead to rashes around the mouth along with coldlike symptoms.

But the RSV surge has been the worst yet. For adults and older children whove had it before, RSV generally feels like a regular cold. But for babies and toddlers, it can lead to pneumonia and bronchiolitis.

We knew RSV was coming back and it would be bad, said Dr. Andres Carrion, a pediatric pulmonologist for Our Lady of the Lake Childrens Hospital. Were seeing it early. The thing that worries me is we may not have a flattening  it could be a very long winter.

Parents and guardians should keep a close eye on babies if they arent eating, have high fever or seem to be straining when they try to breathe, dela Rosa advised. Seeing muscles contract in their backs or chest as they breathe is a sign that the babys trying as much as they can to suck in air to breathe and survive.

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Thats what Credeur was observing in Lilliana, who was born four weeks early and was already at higher risk of struggling with RSV. A sibling picked up the virus at day care, which is probably how it spread to the newborn.

But at the same time that Lilliana needed to be hospitalized, so did many other children struggling to fight off RSV.

We had to stay in the emergency room for two days because there were no beds available, Credeur said. Thats become a recurring theme of the latest outbreak: Hospitals dont necessarily have enough beds, or enough staff, to immediately admit patients from their emergency rooms.

Theyve all been full, said Dr. Catherine ONeal, Our Lady of the Lakes chief medical officer. No beds available for weeks, because they are full of critically ill kids who have respiratory viruses, most of it RSV.

And while cases in adults are usually milder, theyre getting sick with RSV, too, ONeal said. She said that as patients are confused about whether their symptoms are for COVID-19 or RSV, it puts blinders on a little bit to the rising COVID thats here.

Louisiana COVID numbers: Cases, hospitalizations increase as officials warn of another wave Louisiana health officials sounded the alarm on rising COVID cases among unvaccinated people on Tuesday, releasing a flurry of worrisome stati

Most hospitals that take care of pediatric patients were not necessarily well equipped to deal with this summertime surge, Hescock said. Its creating problems with finding places thatll care for kids with this as well as other conditions.

Our Lady of Lourdes Womens and Childrens providers gave Lilliana oxygen, steroids and breathing treatments, her mom said. Credeur said she did not have the heart to leave her side.

Poor baby couldnt eat for four days  they just had her on fluids, Credeur said.

'They haven't been exposed'

Most children get RSV for the first time before they turn 2 years old. But the providers seeing them say that their patients span the gamut of newborn to toddler to child, largely because most havent been through the cycle of outbreaks  and immune system building  during the winter months.

These kids have been so well-protected, they havent been exposed, said Dr. Erin Hauck, the vice chief of Our Lady of the Lakes pediatrics division.

Dr. Brooke Dismukes, a pediatrician at Ochsner Hospital for Children in Jefferson, said shes seeing more 3- and 4-year-olds with more severe cases of RSV this summer who have never had it before.

+7 Lourdes will host back-to-school COVID vaccine clinic Saturday to 'protect the community' Dr. Frank Courmier says his son will get his first dose of the coronavirus vaccine on his 12th birthday in January.

This looks exactly how it would look in our winter months, she said.

RSV spreads easily  through respiratory droplets, such as coughs, and on infected surfaces. In Denham Springs, Victoria Smith Robinson said she started warning her friends and neighbors after her 20-month-old godson was hospitalized with the virus that they should keep their babies home and out of crowds.

Them babies are so precious, Robinson said. Ive been trying to warn people: Stay away.

Despite its high hospitalization rate, RSV is rarely fatal in the United States, though it can be particularly serious in children who already struggle to breathe, and the sickest might require intubation. Even for those with milder cases, it can be a miserable slog with no easy remedies. Children who have it often have fever, coughs and little appetite.

As Credeur waited for Lilliana to be released from the hospital, she dreamed about taking her home to spend time with her six siblings. She went to the hospitals gift shop and bought her a frothy white dress with a big bow on it.

Lilliana was released from the hospital, and on went the new dress.

Staff Writer Emily Woodruff contributed to this report.
East Baton Rouge Parish is starting to tell 1,750 households that were inundated in August 2016 that they may need to elevate their homes, sell them to the government to be demolished or take other significant actions to protect against future flooding.

On Thursday, Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome's administration said a letter giving residents that news will be mailed in batches of 300, starting Friday.

City-parish officials wouldn't say which homeowners are affected because FEMA considers that private information. But they described general areas where affected homes are located, including in the Hurricane Creek watershed and along Jones and Ward Creek.

The letters are required because the prior city-parish administration didn't fully follow Federal Emergency Management Agency rules after the flood nearly five years ago. Homes that should have been elevated, demolished or had other mitigation measures because of their level of damage didn't have the work done.

In 2019, Federal Emergency Management Agency audits found East Baton Rouge and Livingston parishes did not properly assess damage or issue permits after the floods to homes that were "substantially damaged."

+5 Why does Baton Rouge want to buy empty land? It's about stopping floods. East Baton Rouge is considering buying large swaths of empty swamps, fields and woods throughout the parish as a way to hold rain runoff in an

At the time, the audits threatened to limit future federal aid if the failures weren't rectified. Baton Rouge officials now say homeowners parish-wide could lose their 15% discount on flood insurance if the parish doesn't send the letters and take other steps to bring the jurisdiction into compliance.

The rules for the U.S. taxpayer-subsidized National Flood Insurance Program, established decades ago, require local governments to enforce floodplain rules that help reduce flood risk and the costs to the federal program.

City-parish officials said they are trying to manage the flow of calls about the letters, while also continuing to try getting some homes off the list. After the first batch of letters go out, additional batches will be mailed every six to eight weeks until the end of the year.

Homeowners who get the letters will also have an option to appeal the finding, city-parish officials said.

What happens if homeowners ignore the letters remains unclear. The Advocate was unable to get that information from FEMA by press time. And city-parish officials said they don't know what the consequences would be and refuse to speculate  but that they would do what they can to help property owners comply.

Of the total 1,750 homes being targeted for the compliance efforts, about 300 are vacant, city-parish officials said.

Broome's administration has known which households were affected for some time  staff were preparing to send the letters in late April. But Broome abruptly halted the process after Livingston officials sent out similar letters and faced an outcry from shocked homeowners.

Many either had long since rebuilt or had recently bought restored homes from the original owners, unaware the requirement to elevate or sell loomed over them.

+3 FEMA: 1,800+ East Baton Rouge Parish homes may need to be raised or sold because of 2016 floods FEMA rules may require more than 1,800 East Baton Rouge Parish homeowners to elevate their homes or sell them to the government for demolition

Broome said in April that she wanted to wait until her administration could develop a plan that would give these homeowners a path forward and try to avoid creating any additional anxiety over the already traumatic '16 flood, something she personally experienced at her own home.

"So, I understand the emotion that is attached when someone may say, 'You need to do this, this, this or you didn't do A, B, C correctly,'" she said Thursday.

Since then, she said the city-parish and FEMA have had a collaborative discussion about how to proceed. The parish has also created a website; hired a firm, Quality Engineering and Surveying, to handle individual cases; and taken other steps that parish officials say will help residents begin the process.

FEMA grants can help homeowners pay 75% to 90% of the cost of elevating homes. Baton Rouge leaders said they were still working to find additional funding to fill some or all of the 10% to 25% match homeowners might need with a FEMA grant.

Broome said she and her staff were making the advance announcement Thursday about the letters to let people know what is coming in the mail.

"We wanted our people to understand the path forward. We just didn't want them to get the letters cold and not understand the path forward," Broome said.

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+6 Federal rainfall estimates might go up. Here's how that could affect flood insurance, construction Louisiana will soon begin updating official rainfall probability estimates that influence standards for everything from new bridge and canal c

FEMA deems a home "substantially damaged" if it is located in the most high-risk flood zones, is at an elevation below the projected height of a 100-year flood and had flood damage that would cost 50% or more of the pre-flood value, excluding land.

Most high-risk flood zones are "A" or "AE" and require flood insurance for homes with mortgages.

Typically, homes don't hit the necessary level of flood damage to be considered substantially damaged until they had at least four feet of water, city-parish officials added. But that rough benchmark can vary, especially for multi-story houses.

Rachael Lambert, city-parish development director, said the batches of letters are being tiered so the first groups are for those households that have better chances of succeeding in appealing. Lambert said those homes were picked first because the appeal process can be lengthy.

City-parish officials are also continuing to work with FEMA on having the agency recognize the impact of around $750 million in flood protection improvements in the pipeline for Baton Rouge, work that could lower the projected height of future floods and, indirectly, knock more homes off the list of 1,750.

Some of those homes are in latter batches of letters. Any change would require an alteration to NFIP flood risk maps.

The city-parish has been working for more than two years to winnow an original FEMA estimate of more than 3,320 homes suspected of being out of compliance. Tallies from late last year put the refined number at just more than 1,800 but the final number was cut to 1,750, Lambert said.

Lambert and Broome said that notification process was delayed probably by about a year due to the coronavirus pandemic, which sent workers home for months and disrupted the normal flow of commerce and government across the region.

Livingston Parish officials said the pandemic caused a similar delay for them.

The problems triggering the notification effort occurred under the administration of former Mayor-President Kip Holden. Though the city-parish and FEMA sent out an army of inspectors to assess post-flood damage, the local government didn't notify people about their status until they pulled permits for renovations and repair.

Many apparently didn't get the permits, so they didn't find out. FEMA notes just this kind of risk in its guidance literature about the approach the city-parish used in 2016. FEMA says the approach the city-parish used then is a legal, but is less preferred.

Lambert and Robert Joyner, the city-parish floodplain manager, said the parish now uses FEMA's preferred approach, which calls for letters to be sent out proactively to homeowners with substantial damage.

Complying with FEMA's audit findings after the '16 flood means that city-parish must develop a plan to rectify the homes found out of compliance and, in turn, homeowners must develop their own plans to mitigate the flood risk to their home.

Sending out the notification letters is one step in the process for the city-parish, while Quality Engineering is supposed to help homeowners develop their own individual plans or help with appeals.

While home elevation or demolition and buyout are some of the most commonly cited options to mitigate flood risk, Joyner said FEMA does offer other options in some cases, including flood-proofing for some commercial structures and even individual levees or barriers to protect homes.

Lambert said homeowners who are working on their mitigation plan will continue to be able to have flood insurance while they are waiting on a resolution, a process that can take years as funding become available.

The new city-parish letters will have a telephone number for residents to contact, but officials noted that residents who haven't received a letter and are curious about their status can email to floods@brla.gov

The new website address is http://www.brla.gov/floods.
Kristopher Heads godmother grew more and more worried about him with each breath that he struggled to gulp down last week.

A pediatrician had given the 20-month-old baby antibiotics and a breathing treatment, but he seemed to be getting worse. After a particularly worrisome night, his godmother and guardian, Victoria Spain Robinson, promised that shed take him to the hospital come daylight.

They drove from Denham Springs to Baton Rouge, and in the emergency room of Our Lady of the Lake Childrens Hospital, medical providers diagnosed him with a case of respiratory syncytial virus, better known as RSV.

The diagnosis was a paradox, both surprising and anticlimactic at the same time. RSV cases are surging across Southern states  Louisianas Department of Health has officially deemed it RSV season  and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a warning about the spread.

But RSV does not usually skyrocket in the summer. Its actually known as a winter virus thats the leading cause of hospitalization among babies under age 1. For hospitals to be chock-full of little ones with RSV in the middle of July is unprecedented, providers say.

This is the first time that Ive ever seen a large-scale outbreak in the summertime in the past 20 years, said Dr. Jay Hescock, who works for Childrens Hospital in New Orleans as an LSU Health Hospitalist Section chief.

Pediatricians say they are drained, working longer hours and extra shifts, burning through personal protective equipment and wondering whether the surge in cases will let up. Louisiana childrens hospitals are scrambling to find enough beds and staffers to take care of all of the RSV cases, and many have had to stop accepting transfers from other hospitals with their own buildings brimming past capacity.

As the coronavirus delta variant moves through Louisiana  largely affecting adults so far  RSV is sweeping through children, many of whom have been cooped up for more than a year amid coronavirus restrictions that have recently been lifted.

We knew RSV was coming back and it would be bad, said Dr. Andres Carrion, a pediatric pulmonologist for Our Lady of the Lake Childrens Hospital. Were seeing it early. The thing that worries me is we may not have a flattening. It could be a very long winter.

Our Lady of the Lake Childrens Hospital, for example, has been averaging 90 inpatients in recent weeks, with as many as 10 to 15 waiting for inpatient rooms to free up at any given time. At time last summer, though, the hospital was averaging numbers that were half  or even three-fourths  lower, with their average census ranging from 32 to 45.

The states Department of Health deems it RSV season when the percent positivity rate of RSV tests is more than 10%. The state stayed under that number until mid-May, when positive RSV cases jumped nearly 10 percentage points to just under 20%. Cases have continued to climb since then, and positive RSV cases at the beginning of July reached nearly 30%.

Those numbers still dont capture the full picture of the states outbreak. Hospitalized children are tested for the virus, but some pediatricians dont recommend testing for milder cases of RSV because there is no cure. Confirming its diagnosis does not usually change the treatment for typical symptoms of a virus: making sure children are properly hydrated, not struggling to breathe and keeping their airways clear.

More cases, worse cases

As people wore masks, avoided large gatherings and washed their hands more than usual to stem the spread of the coronavirus last year, other viruses fell off as well. RSV was one of them, as was the flu.

But as soon as things loosened up with COVID restrictions, weve had one thing after the other, said Dr. Ashley Lucas, Our Lady of the Lakes medical director of pediatric primary care.

First it was croup, a virus that affects upper airways. Then it was hand, foot and mouth disease, also caused by viruses that can lead to rashes around the mouth along with coldlike symptoms.

But the RSV surge has been the worst yet. For adults and older children whove had it before, RSV generally feels like a regular cold. But for babies and toddlers, it can lead to pneumonia and bronchiolitis.

Louisiana COVID numbers: Cases, hospitalizations increase as officials warn of another wave Louisiana health officials sounded the alarm on rising COVID cases among unvaccinated people on Tuesday, releasing a flurry of worrisome stati

The cases were seeing right now are definitely more than what were used to seeing during regular season, and the severity is definitely worse than before, said Dr. Reynaldo dela Rosa, a Lafayette pediatric intensivist who oversees the pediatric intensive care unit at Our Lady of Lourdes Women's and Children's Hospital.

Were hoping it will trickle down, but theres no signs of it, he added.

He advised that parents and guardians should keep a close eye on babies if they arent eating, have high fever or seem to be straining when they try to breathe. Seeing muscles contract in their backs or chest as they breathe is a sign that the babys trying as much as they can to suck in air to breathe and survive

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Thats what worried Robinson, 44, about her godson, Kristopher. He was a micropreemie at birth, weighing just a little more than a pound, so he already had lung problems. His family lovingly calls him fat daddy, a moniker of just how much hes grown since he was born.

When Robinson brought him to the hospital, there were no free beds to admit him immediately because of all of the other RSV cases  and various other maladies  filling up the hospital. They spent the night in an emergency department room, and Kristopher was admitted the next morning.

Thats become a recurring theme of the latest outbreak: Hospitals dont necessarily have enough beds, or enough staff, to keep up.

Most hospitals that take care of pediatric patients were not necessarily well equipped to deal with this summertime surge, Hescock said. Its creating problems with finding places thatll care for kids with this as well as other conditions.

Theyve all been full, said Dr. Catherine ONeal, Our Lady of the Lakes chief medical officer. No beds available for weeks, because they are full of critically ill kids who have respiratory viruses, most of it RSV.

And while cases in adults are usually milder, theyre getting sick with RSV, too, ONeal said. She said that as patients are confused about whether their symptoms are for COVID-19 or RSV, it puts blinders on a little bit to the rising COVID thats here.

As Kristopher stayed at Our Lady of the Lake Childrens Hospital  the fullest it's been since its opening in late 2019  providers gave him oxygen, intravenous fluids and upped the frequency of his Albuterol, which helps him to breathe. Robinson stayed by his side.

I was like, Kristopher, youve got to get off this oxygen; Nannys ready to go home, she said with a laugh.

'Them babies are precious'

Most children get RSV for the first time before they turn 2 years old. But the providers seeing them say that their patients span the gamut of newborn to toddler to child, largely because most havent been through the cycle of outbreaks  and immune system building  during the winter months.

These kids have been so well-protected, they havent been exposed, said Dr. Erin Hauck, the vice chief of Our Lady of the Lakes pediatrics division.

Dr. Brooke Dismukes, a pediatrician at Ochsner Hospital for Children in Jefferson, said shes seeing more 3- and 4-year-olds with more severe cases of RSV this summer who have never had it before.

This looks exactly how it would look in our winter months, she said.

One of the youngest hospitalized patients with RSV in the state was Lilliana Credeur, of St. Martinville, hospitalized at just 3 weeks old. Her mother said that a sibling picked up the virus at day care, which is probably how it spread to the newborn. Lilliana was released after more than a week of treatment at Our Lady of Lourdes Womens and Childrens.

Poor baby couldnt eat for four days; they just had her on fluids, said her mother, Ashley Credeur, 38.

Despite its high hospitalization rate, RSV is rarely fatal in the United States, though it can be particularly serious in children who already struggle to breathe, and the sickest might require intubation. Even for those with milder cases, it can be a miserable slog with no easy remedies. Children who have it often have fever, coughs and little appetite.

It also spreads easily  through respiratory droplets, like coughs, and on infected surfaces. Once Kristopher was hospitalized, Robinson said she started warning her neighbors and friends to keep their babies home and to stay out of crowds. She said she wanted to share his story in hopes of helping another family avoid having to hospitalize their little one.

Them babies are so precious, she said. Ive been trying to warn people: Stay away.

Staff Writer Emily Woodruff contributed to this report.
COVID-19 is again on the rise in Louisiana as state officials urge residents to get vaccinated to stave off the rapidly spreading delta variant.

The Louisiana Department of Health this week reported the most new coronavirus cases in the state since mid-February  a time when vaccines weren't available to a broad section of the population and the nation emerged from a crushing winter surge. Officials warned that the viruss more-transmissible delta variant, first detected in India, is running rampant among unvaccinated residents and hospitals are reporting growing patient numbers.

The Department of Health logged 1,341 new confirmed cases and eight more deaths in its daily update Wednesday. In the days prior, the states seven-day average of new cases ballooned from 299 on July 3 to 794 this past Monday. The 468 Louisianans who were hospitalized with COVID-19 on Tuesday amounted to a jump of more than 200 patients compared to 12 days prior, the Health Department said.

Louisiana is facing a statewide outbreak, Dr. Joseph Kanter, the Louisiana State Health Officer, told The Advocate | The Times-Picayune on Wednesday.

When I look at the data, cases are going up pretty sharply across the state, Kanter said. I wouldnt pick out any one area thats better or worse off than anyone else now.

Because Louisiana has one of the lowest vaccination rates in the country, pockets of the state were primed for soaring infection rates once delta, a highly contagious variant, was established, said Susan Hassig, an epidemiologist at Tulane University.

Youve got populations that may have been less than careful in mitigation efforts, quick to drop the mask, quick to break social distancing, said Hassig.

At the same time, natural immunity from infections during the winter surge that may have offered at least some protection is waning as the six-month mark passes, Hassig said. There is also reason to believe prior infection does not protect against the delta strain.

And delta is far more transmissible  about 50% more transmissible, scientists say  giving the virus ample opportunity to spread from host to host.

If its twice as transmissible, every person infects four rather than two, said Hassig. Once thats moving in a slightly more interactive community, its going to shoot up.

Louisiana health officials sounded the alarm on rising COVID cases among unvaccinated people this week, saying Tuesday that 94% of cases in the state since May have occurred in people who havent received shots.

Given the availability of vaccines across the state, the current surge in cases is entirely preventable, Kanter said.

We announced 10 new deaths (Wednesday). Those were largely preventable deaths, Kanter said. We had 9 new deaths (Tuesday). Those were largely preventable deaths. Thats the real tragedy of the spike this time.

Louisiana COVID numbers: Cases, hospitalizations increase as officials warn of another wave Louisiana health officials sounded the alarm on rising COVID cases among unvaccinated people on Tuesday, releasing a flurry of worrisome stati

In the Capital Region, East Baton Rouge city-parish residents have flocked to vaccine appointments at a higher clip than Louisianans as a whole, Health Department Data show. But cases in the city-parish still rose sharply in early July as delta emerged as the dominant COVID-19 strain in the United States.

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Dr. Catherine ONeal, chief medical officer and infectious disease specialist at Our Lady of the Lake, said her staff is prepared for another surge as far as knowledge of the virus is concerned, but still suffers from a shortage in health workers critical to treating COVID-19 patients.

What we do not have and what is in extremely short supply is nursing staffing, physical therapy staffing, respiratory therapy staffing, and we cant get them, ONeal said. We will go through this next surge with an extreme shortage of staffing around the state and that will hurt patients more than any other supply because the human supply of health care is irreplaceable.

Kanter said that shortage of health care workers is being seen across the state and nation, speculating that the stress of the pandemic may have driven many nurses to take new jobs or return to school.

While Kanter said he doesnt expect patients from the current surge to entirely overwhelm the states hospital capacity, we are going to be stretching our staffing resources in hospitals which are already smaller than they would have been.

One of the riskiest regions for a COVID outbreak in America includes 29 Louisiana parishes The northern half of Louisiana has been identified as one of the most vulnerable areas in the U.S. to a coronavirus outbreak and an area that 

The mortality rate of a patient with COVID-19 skyrockets during a surge as hospitals fill with patients and resources are stretched thin, ONeal said.

Your illness will be worse because of the surge, ONeal said. I felt very comfortable taking care of a COVID-19 patient a couple of months ago.  I worry about continuing to offer the same standard of care for everyone who walks in our doors.

Rural Tangipahoa Parish, where Health Department data show just 29% of residents have been fully vaccinated  compared to 36% of Louisiana residents overall  on Tuesday logged 79 new COVID-19 cases, the sixth-most of any parish in the state.

While the choice of whether to receive a shot falls to individual citizens, the crush of cases among unvaccinated people should be a key data point for people still gauging whether to get a shot, said Robby Miller, the Tangipahoa Parish president.

I think that everybody needs to weigh the evidence themselves and make a decision, Miller said. And if the data shows that 94% of people getting (COVID-19) are not vaccinated, thats a pretty telltale sign.

The best way to slow the spread of the virus across the state is by getting vaccinated, Kanter said. Those who arent fully vaccinated need to wear masks and distance themselves indoors, something that has never been more important than it is now.

We dont have a lot of vaccinations, and then we dont have a lot of masking and distancing, Kanter said. Thats why were in a surge right now. If any one of those wasnt the case, we might not be in a surge right now.

Asked whether Gov. John Bel Edwards would consider reinstating the mask mandate or other public health restrictions from earlier in the pandemic, a spokesperson for his office said the governor will focus instead on encouraging vaccinations.

What we know for certain right now is that the best way to fight the virus is for more Louisianans to get vaccinated, said Christina Stephens, a spokesperson for the governors office. We have three safe and effective vaccines that are widely available and free, and everyone who is not vaccinated is encouraged to get one of those vaccines as soon as possible.

The impending summer surge wont be the states last if vaccination rates dont significantly rise, ONeal warned.

What I hope everybody understands is were going to experience a surge because we don't have enough vaccinated individuals in our community, ONeal said. When this surge goes away in a couple of months, well have another one unless we have more vaccinated people in the community. This pandemic will not end unless we reach a vaccination point to prevent it.
In an expected move, Ascension Parish public schools have announced they will make mask-wearing optional for children and adults except on school buses.

The shift to optional mask-wearing is part of new operational guidelines for the suburban Baton Rouge school district that were released Wednesday. The guidelines are aimed at curbing the spread of the deadly coronavirus in schools.

Face coverings are optional for all PreK through 12 students and employees except while traveling on a bus, according to the new guidelines.

A year ago, in the lead-up to the 2020-21 school year, Ascension school leaders did not at first require mask-wearing, instead saying they were greatly encouraged. The state soon afterwards took it out of their hands by mandating masks, except for young children.

Diocese of Baton Rouge will still require masks next school year  except for the vaccinated Even as public schools across Louisiana are jettisoning mask-wearing, the Diocese of Baton Rouge is sticking with its face-covering mandate fo

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Most schools in Louisiana are planning to drop mask-wearing.

A prominent exception  at least briefly  was the Diocese of Baton Rouge, which on Wednesday, said that mask-wearing would still be required for unvaccinated adults and unvaccinated students in grade 3 and above. A day later, after the state unveiled its own more relaxed guidelines, the diocese reversed course and dropped requirements for masks, daily temperature checks and proof of vaccination.

Here are other highlights of the new Ascension Parish guidelines:
Prosecutors disclosed Thursday they had recently received from Baton Rouge police a box of evidence regarding double homicide on Highland Road  six years after the killings and two months before the first trial is to begin.

Frank Garcia is scheduled to stand trial Sept. 27 on a first-degree murder charge following the 2015 robbery, beating, abduction and strangling of Denis and Suzanne Duplantier.

East Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney Hillar Moore III said he believes that Garcia's trial can still go forward.

+4 In 2015 killing of Highland Road couple in 70s, defendants to be tried separately A prosecutor disclosed Tuesday which of two men will be tried first in the 2015 robbery, beating, kidnapping and strangling of a Highland Road

"I don't believe this disclosure, although it's late, should delay the trial," he said.

The Baton Rouge Police Department did not immediately reply to a request for comment.

Moore said the majority of the evidence delivered to his office Monday is "consistent with what's already been disclosed and is consistent with the state's theory of the case."

Moore noted, however, that a cellphone belonging to Garcia's cousin and co-defendant, Ernesto Alonso, was in the box of evidence delivered to his office, and a police detective is preparing a search warrant to obtain the phone's contents.

Depending on what is contained in the phone, the district attorney said, the defense may wish to ask for a trial continuance.

Alonso's attorney, Dwight Doskey, said the disclosure by Moore's office is "certainly not a good development for the prosecution."

"Quite obviously it opens up the line of questioning to the lead detective of `and what else are you forgetting/not telling the jury` and `six years from now will there be other evidence?'" Doskey said.

The "state's discovery disclosure" filed into the court record Thursday says the new evidence also includes security camera footage, more crime scene photographs, and detective case notes.

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The filing says the District Attorney's Office uncovered the missing evidence after reviewing the case file and concluding that "one or more pieces of evidence were not in the file or listed on the evidence list from Baton Rouge City Police."

"We have now inventoried the items in the box and are now providing to the defense items that were not previously in the possession of the District Attorney's Office," prosecutor Dana Cummings wrote.

The bodies of Denis "Bubbie" Duplantier, 71, and Suzanne "Suzy" Duplantier, 70, were found Oct. 19, 2015, in the back seat of their red pickup at a Hammond gas station.

+2 Duo accused of double killing can get fair trial in East Baton Rouge Parish, appeals court says The two men charged with the high-profile killing of a Highland Road couple can receive a fair trial in East Baton Rouge Parish, an appeals co

Alonso, 48, did landscaping work for the Duplantiers and lived on other property owned by them.

His white pickup was captured on surveillance video as it followed the couples vehicle into the Petro truck stop, authorities have said. Alonsos truck was later discovered at Garcias residence in Hollywood, Florida.

A safe inside the Duplantier home was found open, with cash missing. Blood was located in several rooms. Authorities believe the two men entered the Duplantier home and beat them to get the information needed to open the safe.

A large amount of cash and a number of unspecified items believed stolen from the home were found at Garcias home in Florida, authorities said.

Attorneys for Garcia, 53, have claimed in previously filed documents that he and Alonso have antagonistic defenses, and the lawyers anticipate that Alonso will try to "shift blame from himself to Garcia" at trial.

+3 Separate trials requested in 2015 Highland Road slaying of elderly couple Attorneys for one of the men accused in the 2015 beating, robbery, abduction and killing of an elderly Highland Road couple filed court papers

Prosecutors announced in 2016 they would not seek the death penalty against either man after discussions with the victims' families. They face mandatory sentences of life in prison if convicted as charged.
Louisiana will cut off jobless benefits for nearly 100,000 self-employed residents beginning in August, prematurely ending a federal program that has helped musicians, contractors and so-called gig workers avoid financial ruin amid the economic turmoil of the coronavirus pandemic.

For those who will remain on the state's unemployment rolls next month, weekly benefits will be slashed in half  as Louisiana joins a growing list of states that are rejecting a federal $300-a-week boost in jobless benefits on the shaky premise that theyre causing a worker shortage.

Gov. John Bel Edwards agreed to opt out of the federal programs, five weeks ahead of their official expiration date, in exchange for support from GOP lawmakers and business groups for a modest, long-term hike to the states weekly unemployment benefits.

Under the compromise, hashed out in the final minutes of the legislative session, lawmakers authorized a $28 weekly boost to the states jobless benefits beginning in January 2022. However, to go into effect, the Democratic governor had to end the states participation in the "federal governments supplemental unemployment benefits program by the end of July.

Mark Ballard: The last-minute dealmaking in the Legislature that increased unemployment checks Sen. Jay Luneau calls them the twins because of how often they testify side-by-side before his Senate Labor & Industrial Relations Commi

Edwards accepted the arrangement, and in June, the Louisiana Workforce Commission notified the federal government that it would opt out of the programs effective July 31. The move makes Louisiana one of the few states headed by a Democratic executive to turn off the benefits ahead of their official expiration on Labor Day.

In addition to the $300-a-week supplemental payments, the state indicated it would also end its Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), covering "gig workers," and Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC), which allowed people to receive jobless benefits past the state's 26-week limit. It also plans to do away with Mixed Earner Unemployment Compensation (MEUC).

For much of the legislative session, Edwards resisted calls to end the supplemental benefits early. He noted that, unlike the two dozen other states that opted out of the payments, Louisiana had an economy centered around tourism and visitors were just beginning to trickle back in.

To avoid making a "rushed decision," Edwards' administration hired longtime LSU economist Jim Richardson to analyze the impact the move might have on Louisiana's economy.

According to the report submitted to Edwards, and obtained by this newspaper, Richardson estimated that that if the $300-a-week supplemental benefits were kept in place, Louisianas unemployed workforce, collectively, would pocket up to $220 million in direct payments.

To match the economic activity spurred by those stimulus payments, Richardson argued that at least 40% of those currently on unemployment assistance  or nearly 59,000 people  would need to get a job in the month of August. The state's job search website, HiRE, included 50,000 open positions at the end of June, Richardson wrote.

Separately, Richardson estimated that the $28 bump in weekly payments would translate into an additional $143 million in benefits for unemployed workers over the next decade-a-half.

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The report doesn't address the economic impact of lifting the benefits "gig workers" and other self-employed residents are receiving under the federal government's pandemic unemployment assistance. It also doesn't address the effect of nixing extended benefits for those who remain unemployed past the state's 26-week limit.

+2 John Bel Edwards signs bill to increase state jobless benefits, but opts out of $300 federal bump Gov. John Bel Edwards signed legislation that will increase the states unemployment benefits by $28 a week starting next year in return for a

Louisiana has among the lowest maximum unemployment benefits in the U.S., at $247 a week, and has the lowest average weekly benefit in the country, according to an analysis from the left-leaning Louisiana Budget Project. The state hasn't bumped its benefits in more than two decades, a fact that Edwards seized on in his support for the legislation.

For a long time now Louisiana has had the smallest weekly benefit in the country. And we need to do better in that. Everything is a tradeoff. Reasonable people can disagree about exactly where you draw the line, Edwards said at a press conference at the end of the legislative session.

Edwards also said he wanted to strike a "reasonable balance" between helping the jobless and assisting businesses that say they're having trouble finding people to fill their ranks. The state is still 155,000 jobs short of its pre-pandemic levels, and since September 2020, the state has added back around 3,700 jobs a month, Richardson wrote.

Still, it's unclear whether ending those $300-a-week payments will have the intended effect of pumping up the labor force. Under state law, workers are already required to search for jobs to receive benefits, noted Jan Moller, head of the Louisiana Budget Project.

"This $300 a week is not a license to sit on your couch until Labor Day," Moller said. "What is undisputable is that this is pure, federal money that you are taking away from being spent in Louisiana's economy."

Ben Zucker, co-director of Step Up Louisiana, which advocates for better working conditions for state residents, said the problem isn't a worker shortage, it's a "good job shortage." He pointed to a poll from Morning Consult which asked people receiving unemployment benefits why they turned down a job. Among the answers were childcare obligations, concerns with the coronavirus pandemic and paltry pay.

Stephen Barnes, an economics professor at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, said labor shortages are holding back some of Louisiana's potential for economic recovery, but said it's unclear whether the supplemental payments are to blame.

It is ultimately very difficult to judge in real-time if this is exactly the right decision or not, Barnes said.

He said Louisiana in the next month is poised for growth, and thinks that with pent-up demand for regional tourism, there will be ample opportunities in the coming weeks for people to get reengaged in the economy.

"I suspect that as time passes, and we have more and more data, and get a clear understanding of this, that it will have ultimately been a close call and not something that dramatically changes the outlook for Louisiana's economy," Barnes said.
Competition tsar Rod Sims says he will take an extremely close look at any attempt by National Australia Bank to buy Citigroups domestic retail banking unit, after the big four lender this week said it was in talks about a possible acquisition.

In response to media speculation, NAB this week confirmed it was in discussions about the potential purchase of the Citis Australian retail business, adding there was no certainty the talks would lead to a transaction.

ACCC chairman Rod Sims: Citi is an important player, particularly in cards, so this is something wed have a very very close look at. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Mr Sims said the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) had been paying close attention to the financial services sector, and Citis unit was much more substantial than the neobank 86 400, which the ACCC allowed NAB to buy earlier this year.

We dont know the status of it, but if it was to go ahead wed have an extremely close look at it. Obviously youve got the four big banks - we think the competition between them is fairly muted, and therefore competition from other players is important, Mr Sims told The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age.
The EU already has arguably the worlds most ambitious response to climate change. It launched its emissions trading system in 2005 and has reduced its emissions, from 1990 levels, by nearly 25 per cent. That trading system would be remade to include a range of big industrial sectors  steelmakers, power generators, shipping, transport and buildings  not previously taxed by the scheme. Carmakers would be included and their emissions standards raised to effectively phase out new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2035. Agriculture, not currently covered by the ETS, would face emissions caps. The EU plan will intensify the global debate about reducing global carbon emissions further and faster than now envisaged and about the best mechanisms for achieving those outcomes. Credit:Jonathan Carroll Chinas trading scheme will start with more than 2000 companies in its power generation sector  a major source of global emissions  before being extended to the petrochemicals, building materials, steel and metals, paper and aviation industries over the next few years.

In an indication of how complicated the politics of carbon pricing are, even in Europe, the EU proposal includes a plan to use some of the estimated 9 billion ($14.25 billion) a year of revenue raised by the carbon border tax to fund a 72.2 billion program to offset the impact of the proposals on vehicles and buildings for households facing higher fuel and heating costs. Underscoring that complexity, there may be different treatment of economies even within the EU, with concessions made to the weaker economies in southern Europe and the poorer countries in central and eastern Europe. The EU plan may involve issuing free credits to those economies (and consequent heavier lifting by the stronger ones) for a decade or more. Any concessions could, of course, strengthen a WTO case against the border tax, although it will initially have limited application  imposed on products like steel, cement, aluminum and fertilisers. Russia and Turkey and some eastern European economies will be worst hit. The US, China, Russia and others (including Australia) have objected to the concept of a border tax (although the US has suggested it might introduce one of its own) and its imposition could provoke retaliatory taxes and a rekindling of a trade war with the US that has only recently abated. As it is imposed more widely, both to level the playing field for European companies and to prevent carbon leakage, or European companies relocating to jurisdictions with less punishing emissions standards, companies will have to make up the difference  pay a taxon any gap between the carbon price, if any, they pay in their home market and the EUs regime.

By phasing in the border tax, which would start in 2026, the EU probably wants to give companies  its own and those of other countries  time to understand and prepare for what will be a very complex scheme, with exporters to the EU probably having to produce audits of their emissions. The initial limited application may also be designed to defuse a blowback from outside the EU. The US, China, Russia and others (including Australia) have previously objected to the concept of a border tax (although the US has now signalled it might introduce one of its own) and its imposition could provoke retaliatory taxes from the countries impacted. China is expected to release details of a domestic emissions-trading market aimed at helping it to meet its target of peak emissions in 2030 and net zero emissions by 2060 on Friday. Credit:AP By announcing it, however, the EU might be able to achieve its objective, and magnify the impact of its response to climate change, by intensifying discussions of alternatives, particularly the concept of a global minimum carbon price that is being promoted by some of the worlds multi-lateral institutions and international organisations representing fund managers pursuing sustainable investment strategies.

A global floor price, or a mechanism that imputed a price depending on countries progress towards net zero emissions, would be a less onerous and fairer approach without the protectionist flavour of the EUs border tax plan. What the EU moves will do is to intensify the global debate about reducing global carbon emissions further and faster than now envisaged and about the best mechanisms for achieving those outcomes. That would further increase the pressure on economies, like Australia, that dont have an emissions-trading or pricing system in place, whatever their stated ambitions or progress towards net zero emissions might be. Loading Much may depend on what the US does. The Biden administration does have very ambitious plans to reduce US emissions  Biden has committed to cutting them 50 per cent by 2030 and have a net neutral power system by 2035  but is struggling to get the infrastructure elements of its program through Congress and the attempt to freeze new oil and gas leases on federal land through the courts.
The images flooding out of riot-torn South Africa are horrifying. On Tuesday, a woman in a high-rise building apparently set alight by looters tossed her child to the hoped-for safety of a crowd far below. Emergency workers have been attacked in several places; one medical service began transporting the injured in an armoured ambulance. In much of the central district of the port city of Durban, the police were overwhelmed and shopping malls and stores were gutted.

The nations president, Cyril Ramaphosa, warned against ethnic conflict, a threat his critics called groundless and that only increased tensions.

But as I swiped through the pictures and videos flying across my South African relatives group chats this week, I was struck by the many posts that suggested an even bitterer flavour of doom  a kind of psychological crackup.

Looters carry items at Letsoho Shopping Centre in Katlehong, east of Johannesburg, South Africa. Credit:AP

What began last week as scattered protests over the jailing of Jacob Zuma, the nations former president, has turned into a plunder free of meaning and intention, so indiscriminate that it seems almost cathartic. On Monday, just as Ramaphosa promised in a droning national address to get tough on looters, a split-screen showed a crowd meeting no resistance as they broke into a bank  but not an ordinary bank, a blood bank. All the while nobody seems to know whats actually happening, as misinformation rockets through a locked-down, screen-dependent population.
Loading Erica encounters an eccentric Balkan stonemason, an illegal immigrant, who is camping nearby. Together, they embark on the project, with the occasional assistance from a motley crew of locals. The Labyrinth is melancholy, moving, and ultimately uplifting. Lohreys interest in labyrinths was piqued a few years ago when she noted there was a resurgence in their building, here and particularly in the US. She found that when asked about their labyrinths, many people couldnt articulate why they had built them. Or quite commonly, they wanted a walking meditation. I have a long-standing interest in Australia as a secular culture that nevertheless tries to find its own sacred spaces in its own way. But I wanted an image of creativity, of making ... the creating and making as a way of dealing with whatever problems we have. It seemed to be the ideal image for that. A labyrinth is not a puzzle  not like a maze. You go in, you go into the centre, you reflect on the self and theoretically you come out from a mini-pilgrimage and you resolve something.

The shape of the labyrinth  the idea of it as a model of reversible identity  also informed the form of the book. Its one thing to write well page for page but its another thing to find a satisfying form where the whole thing seems to come together. But its not labyrinthine in having a complex structure. A labyrinth is not a complex structure, a maze is a complex structure. A labyrinth is one path in and one path out, you kind of loop in and out and double back on yourself, and this why its often used as a metaphor for life itself, Lohrey said. She wanted the reader to feel as if they were following a path and coming out with a sense of some illumination. Lohrey takes her time with her writing and spent five years on The Labyrinth. But there was a period when writing stalled and the ANU gave her a timely three-month fellowship. I had this very bare room with nothing in it and it was just like being a monk and it was perfect because I could go into a kind of zone, which in fact is not unlike being in a labyrinth.

Its one thing to write well page for page but its another thing to find a satisfying form where the whole thing seems to come together. Thats what you slog away trying to arrive at. You dont know what its going to look like. You know it when you see it or write it. Loading Although Lohrey has written non-fiction, notably two Quarterly Essays, she remains committed to writing and reading fiction. Its something to do with mystery. Its so fascinating to not know where youre going and then when you get to the end think so thats what I was doing. Its really like a child in a playpen with a set of blocks, both serious and playful at the same time and its inherently paradoxical in that you have a plan, you have schema, and then all that dissolves and you go somewhere else. A new scheme or form emerges ... its addictive. Fiction will take a reader into that special space, she says, and you occupy it at no cost. And somehow youre renewed and refreshed by it.
Still, thats not going to stop people from wearing overcooked sun tans and working a tapered pant on the real estate trail. Nor will it stop the reality television cameras from following them and packaging it as the property markets answer to MasterChef .

Scratch the surface, however, and things are never quite what they seem. In truth the most expensive property markets in the world are Monaco (at about US$5,263 per square foot), Hong Kong (about US$4,393 per square foot) and Geneva, Switzerland (US$2,123 per square foot). Sydney comes in a few rungs down the ladder at around the US$1,768 ($2366) mark, just behind Shanghai and London.

Few things seem to feed into the soul of Sydney like real estate does. Everyone is vying for a slice of it. Everyone is measured by it  that is, when theyre not being measured by what school they went to. And everyone is talking about it, all the time. Understandably, perhaps: Sydney real estate is, after all, the equal of New York, London or Tokyo in terms of expense and obsession.

Luxe Listings Sydney isnt here to sell you a house. It isnt even here to sell you a good kitchen renovation. Rather its subtly (and not so subtly) stroking the egos of its participants, and dabbling in the realm of pseudo-script. Not because the situations are contrived, though at times they certainly feel a little stretched, but because they play richly with character archetypes. This isnt cops and robbers, but it is a show which has a cast of characters.

As obvious as it might seem, its actually a hard balance to strike. Sevens MKR, when it was guided by the hand of producer Rikkie Proost, effected that transaction brilliantly. Luxe Listings Sydney, under the similarly skilled hand of Paul Franklin, among others, does much the same. What is extraordinary about reality television in Australia is that given the commercial network appetite for it, and the way it is slathered into the program schedule, there are so few people who actually do it well.

DLeanne Lewis, Simon Cohen and Gavin Rubinstein in Luxe Listings Sydney. Credit:Amazon Prime Video

The most immediate touchstone for Luxe Listings Sydney would be Americas Million Dollar Listing, though that was largely marketed off the back of a fairly salacious choice of featured agent: porn actor-turned-realtor Fredrik Eklund. Which is not to say hes not good at what he does: at a formidable 65 tall, Eklund is one of New Yorks most successful real estate brokers.

Ultimately the success or failure of the series pivots on whether an audience will engage beyond the fast-cut real estate porn and find some connection to the characters. And given Amazons relatively small Australian footprint, and the lack of published metrics, that can feel a little like grasping at shadows.
Melbourne Catholic Archbishop Peter Comensoli is facing dissent from within over ambitious plans to restructure almost 200 parishes across the city, conceding the churchs painful history and parishioners abandoning the pews had caused serious challenges.

In the wake of Australias clergy abuse scandal, Archbishop Comensoli has warned that the archdiocese had reached a threshold and could sink into the sunset without structural reform.

Catholic Archbishop of Melbourne Peter Comensoli at St Patricks Cathedral on Easter Sunday. Credit:Luis Ascui

In briefings to church officials as well as in documents seen by The Age, the Catholic leader has suggested overhauling Melbournes 200-odd parishes into about 50 to 60 missions  parishes grouped together based on common districts, ethnic communities or needs.

Under the plan, which could take between three and five years to implement, two priests could be based at each mission, living together in the same residence so they could pool resources.
Victorians should be praised for doing the right thing and getting tested as required. That said, given this latest Delta variant and the risk of fleeting transmission, I cannot help but wonder if we should mobilise pop-up testing stations at specific locations where there is a need for rapid testing, such as St Patricks Primary School in Murrumbeena. Media reports indicate the parents were asked to collect their children, with those in grade 4 told to go directly to a testing station. This means more mass movement of people. We need to make it easy for our community, both to lessen any opportunity for people to put off testing and also to reduce movement.

Sandy Morris, Surrey Hills NSW must bite the bullet and lockdown now If Gladys Berejiklian and Scott Morrison care anything at all for the people of Sydney or Australia, they would enforce a hard lockdown in New South Wales now to contain this virus  if it is not already too late. It is pure arrogance to believe we cannot get into the same mess as some other countries where the virus is raging out of control. If the NSW Premier and Prime Minister carry on the way they are, political annihilation will be the least of their worries.

Ginny West, Jan Juc Treasurer, petulant voters have long memories Well, Josh Frydenberg, we will see how petulant the Victorian people are when it comes time to voting next year. While we have not heard too much from the federal Labor Party around how it would have handled the pandemic, I find it difficult to believe that it would have been worse than what has happened to date from you and

your colleagues.

Michael Hendrickson, Kew East

When theres disagreement over what is essential Income support will supposedly help people make a decision about whether or not they should stay home from work. But this decision was forced upon workers by the NSW government which has failed to provide clear rules. In a crisis, people do not want the added stress of having to decide what they should do themselves. What if the employer and worker do not agree on whether the work is essential, and the employer wants the employee to keep showing up? Income support will not protect someone from losing their job.

Catherine Miller, Chewton Where the loyalty of Victorian ministers really lies Perhaps Josh Frydenberg and Greg Hunt should seek preselection in New South Wales seats as they seem more prepared to support that state than Victoria.

Jack Manning, Kangaroo Flat THE FORUM

Follow WAs early lead The majority of Victorians do the right thing during COVID-19 restrictions. However, we need to start making decisions based on the fact that there are people who do not and, as we have seen, it does not take many of them to have a devastating effect on the rest of us. We may scoff at Western Australia for its slam the borders shut mantra, but why we did not do so with NSW far sooner is beyond me. Between the botched vaccine and quarantine rollout at federal level and the dithering and incompetence at state level, I say: a pox on both their houses.

Jane Levin, Mount Martha Following the science Michael OBrien says Daniel Andrews must come up with a plan to avoid lockdowns in Victoria. One part of such a plan would be to encourage us all to do what we can to slow the spread of the virus, such as wearing masks and always checking in when appropriate. Continuing negative commentary causes confusion and gives succour to those who argue against scientific-based advice. The most important part of the plan would surely be to ensure all Australians are vaccinated as soon as possible. Perhaps Mr OBrien could have a word with his friend, Scott Morrison, on this point.

Alister McKenzie, Lake Wendouree Seeking strong leaders

One good reason to be glad to live in Victoria is the unambiguous advice given by the Andrews government during lockdowns. The Berejiklian governments refusal to decide which were essential functions and workers, and decision to rely on the publics common sense, was not a good plan. If this kind of reasoning were more generally applied, speed limits on roads would be unnecessary. Governments are elected to make unambiguous decisions and communicate them clearly. Of course, the Prime Ministers reluctance to take responsibility for anything provides Gladys Berejiklian with an example that is all too easy to follow.

Juliet Flesch, Kew Who are his people? Given that Josh Frydenberg is the senior Victorian representative in the government, why does he bag Victoria at every opportunity? In relative terms, Victoria is dealing with COVID-19 very well. In energy management terms, it is doing very well and in step with the latest Australian Energy Market Operators forward-looking approach to grid management. In voter terms, a large proportion of his constituents in Kooyong support the cautious action on COVID-19 and the progressive approach to climate change action. So who does Josh Frydenberg actually represent?

William Chandler, Surrey Hills NSW, his natural state Josh Frydenberg, I hear that the good people of Kooyong want to turn your electoral office into a wine bar. But dont worry, they have found you another office in a nice part of Sydney. You will be much happier up there.

Ken Hurle, Ivanhoe

Loyal to our own state We could have all been Australians, in this together. But thanks to Scott Morrison, Josh Frydenberg, Greg Hunt and Gladys Berejiklian, we are Victorians first, and proud of it.

Maria Nield, Richmond Please, wear your mask It is so frustrating that our government continues to promote, accept and condone masks under the nose and masks around the chin. Some education and enforcement is long overdue.

Stephen Mills, Blackburn South Pleasing diversity

Pallavi Singhals fascinating analysis of winners of the Miles Franklin Literary Award (The Age, 15/7) reveals strong judging biases, but some of these are historical. If we just look at the last decade, a different picture emerges. Of the last 10 winners, eight were women. Also over that time, three of the winners were of Indigenous heritage and five were born overseas. A pleasingly diverse group, reflecting Australian life in its many phases. The judges of recent years deserve recognition for promoting this diversity. But still too many (three) winning titles starting with The.

Neville Nicholls, Viewbank Oh, Danny, well all ... My family always knew when I was reading Danny Katzs column because I would start laughing uncontrollably. He gave the paper life. I will miss him terribly.

Benjamin Levy, Caulfield North ... miss you so much Danny Katz, The Age will never be the same..except for Good Weekend. Thank goodness for that. Now can you please bring out a book with all your old columns, especially the COVID-themed one. I still have it on my fridge.

Virginia Prior, Ashwood

So many projects ... I agree with Mary Howe (Letters, 14/7) about developing our own mRNA vaccines, if only we had sufficient resources and expertise in CSL and our universities. Instead of wasting billions on an obsolete, heavily polluting transport solution (the North East Link Project), we should shift our resources into the vaccines of the future. These could earn billions of dollars in their patents and sales and prevent the misery of COVID-19 illness which is causing the huge overloading of our medical systems and destroying peoples lives and economies.

Dr John Merory, Ivanhoe East ... in need of money To be spending $500 million on the Australian War Memorial is unconscionable. The money is desperately needed elsewhere. A pandemic is raging and the as yet unbuilt quarantine centres need this money, not to mention the returned soldiers who are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Oh, a reminder of the many thousands of people who are in need of public housing.

Katriona Fahey, Alphington Unis precarious plight

Amy Zadow (Opinion, 15/7) is probably right about always-on workers suffering negative health consequences, but I wonder if her sample base (university staff) hasnt distorted her results. University staff at this time are under inordinate duress from the federal governments deliberate neglect. Universities have suffered more from the pandemic than other sectors by being denied JobKeeper, as well as losing foreign student income. Staff are consequently being  or face being  laid off, so it is little wonder they report negative health symptoms.

Peter Greig, Colac Lets ban all balloons I applaud the new environment law that bans the release of balloons outdoors (The Age, 14/7). However, how can this be effectively policed? Think of all the childrens parties in parks. A much better solution would be to ban balloons all together. There are many other decorative options, such as paper streamers.

Carmel McNaught, Balwyn North Saving planet together

I hope the diplomats from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation enjoy snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef. They will probably be shown the best of the reef. However, the best of the rehabilitation efforts seems to be a masking of the real needs of the reef. It is more like an Olympic Games bid, a plea of persuasion on behalf of the government. Our government should be pleased with an endangered tag for the reef. It takes a whole world to save a planets environment. Let us have everyone on board. There is no coming back later to fix mistakes.

Tricia OBrien, Ventnor Why not go the whole hog? Re Periodic table off the table in chemistry shift (The Age, 14/7). Okay, so lets teach maths without numbers, English without words and punctuation (I think iPhones have started this already) and physics without laws or equations. Knowledge needs to be based on something.

Andrew Crane, Richmond Imaginative teaching Jim Reiss is smack on the mark  Inspirational teachers can impart the magic (Letters, 15/7). The key to good student outcomes is imaginative teaching. Undue weight can be placed on content, rather than the creativity of the teacher. If the periodic table is relevant to imparting a new, gee whiz/politically correct version of the science curriculum, the skilful teacher will integrate it into the whole. As a former government school principal who observed hundreds of teachers, I recognise good teachers can make even bad theory work. Unfortunately, with poor teachers, nothing works.

Ian Whitehead, Traralgon

Excitement of learning I can remember the excitement I felt when I studied chemistry at school. The periodic table showed me how many elements there were but, even more exciting, was the realisation that there was such intrinsic order, that the finding of some elements had been predicted before they were found. This order led me to believe that a higher power must have been responsible for the creation of the universe. I am still grateful for learning this at school.

Jean Sietzema-Dickson, Mont Albert North Atoms and the universe Dr Seamus Delaney (Letters, 15/7), the periodic table of the chemical elements shows the structure of atoms from which the entire universe is composed. It teaches how the structure of atoms allows the many complex molecules from which we and the world around us are made. And you cannot get more fundamental in teaching science than that.

Henry Herzog, St Kilda East Double standards?

Reading your article regarding the rise in gas prices (The Age, 15/7) makes me curious. It is interesting how business leaders like the Australian Industry Group want government intervention when the markets do not suit them. I thought that governments were supposed to be imperfect arbiters, unlike the market. Isnt price supposed to be the perfect signal? Ho hum.

Phil Labrum, Flemington AND ANOTHER THING Credit:Illustration: Matt Golding COVID-19 Throwing the book at the removalists? If this is a case of deliberate non-cooperation, the book isnt heavy enough.

Ralph Boehmer, St Kilda West

Mr Morrison, please take a holiday to Hawaii until this COVID thing is sorted.

Andy Indrans, Taradale Petulant? Frydenbergs missed the mark. We are furious. Come the election, we Victorians will remember what he said.

Margaret Moore, Thornbury The vaccination ads make me want to amble out slowly, and wander down, in my own time ... and get a ... Ive forgotten already.

Frank Flynn, Cape Paterson The childish and petulant voters of Kooyong might remember Frydenbergs intemperate remarks at the next election.

Sandra Torpey, Hawthorn Has Berejiklian apologised to the nation for adopting a dangerously ideological approach to containing Sydneys outbreak?

Graham Williams, Glen Waverley

It seems essential workers in NSW equals the workforce. Movement spreads the virus. The economy first, public health last, hey Gladys?

Judy Loney, Drumcondra Better Dictator Dan than Gormless Gladys.

Mike Puleston, Brunswick I always thought civil libertarians were lefties  but apparently not in NSW.

Gary Sayer, Warrnambool Morrison  a fizzer on Pfizer.

Bob Stensholt, Glen Iris Furthermore
The former boss of killer truckie Mohinder Singh has pleaded not guilty to manslaughter over the deaths of four police officers killed in the Eastern Freeway collision.

Simiona Tuteru, the 50-year-old supervisor at trucking company Connect Logistics, will face trial over allegations he knew or ought to have known his employee Mohinder Singh was fatigued and not in a proper state to drive on April 22 last year.

Trucking company manager Simiona Tuteru, who has been charged in connection to the Eastern Freeway crash, outside court in early May. Credit:Simon Schluter

Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor, Senior Constable Kevin King, Constable Glen Humphris and Constable Josh Prestney were killed when they were hit by a prime mover driven by Singh.

In the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Thursday morning, Magistrate Luisa Bazzani said while the prosecution case was decidedly narrow in scope, the evidence presented during the committal hearing was of sufficient weight and committed Mr Tuteru to trial.
The Victorian government on Thursday announced new coronavirus restrictions to apply from 11.59pm on Thursday, July 15.

In this article you will find a run through of the new rules for the state. It will be updated as new information becomes available so please check back for the latest information.

Masks

Mask rules have expanded again. Masks must now also be worn outdoors when you leave your home.
A yoga teacher sexually assaulted a 15-year-old girl while the teenagers mother was in the class and on a mat about one metre away, a court has heard.

Chandra Bhoga, 47, is now in custody after his lawyer conceded jail was warranted for repeatedly groping the girl under her T-shirt and underwear across 30 minutes on July 31, 2018.

The mother and daughter did the early-morning class at Bhogas home in Tarneit after beginning sessions with him over the previous weeks, the County Court heard on Thursday.

When the girl told Bhoga she was having trouble breathing because of a cold, he instructed the mother to continue her movements and had the girl put her legs on his and moved his face close to hers, prosecutor Tania Bolton said.

Bhoga then repeatedly touched the girl under her clothing and at one point tried to move her wrist towards his penis, Ms Bolton said. When the girl resisted, Bhoga asked: You arent comfortable? The girl replied no.
A 20-year-old Perth man jailed for visiting a friend on the 13th day of his self-quarantine has had his prison sentence overturned after the Supreme Court agreed the punishment was excessive.

The aviation student visited Victoria in December when there were no border restrictions between the two states.

The Supreme Court of WA. Credit:Erin Jonasson

On December 31, two days after he had arrived home, WA reinstated restrictions with Victoria in response to an outbreak and anyone who had recently visited the state was asked to retrospectively self-quarantine for 14 days.

The man quarantined at his family home in Ardross and submitted for his required COVID test on January 9.
Telstra boss Andy Penn says negligent company directors should be held legally liable for cyber attacks on their businesses in egregious situations, as he warns many workplaces are under-prepared for such an attack.

Mr Penn cautiously backed a proposal to strengthen obligations on directors, which was canvassed by the federal government this week, but said the degree of responsibility should depend on the significance of the companys products or services.

Telstra boss Andy Penn says malicious cyber criminals are becoming more brazen and sophisticated in targeting governments, businesses and global supply chains. Credit:Eamon Gallagher

In certain circumstances, yes, ultimately, there has to be some degree of legal liability, Mr Penn said on Thursday.

In egregious situations where the exposure to cyber risk is potentially a threat to national security or its a threat to health or safety or otherwise and there has been complete negligence towards ensuring that there are some basic cyber defences in place, then I think directors obviously have to be responsible.
Singapore: Indonesia is making a new appeal for oxygen tanks as it enters its worst case scenario, surpassing even India and Brazil right now in new COVID-19 cases, but a leading epidemiologist believes the true number of infections there may be five to 15 times as high as what has been reported.

Unwanted records have been tumbling daily in the worlds fourth largest nation, which has faced shortages in hospital beds and oxygen as the Delta strain of the virus has triggered a devastating new wave across the archipelago.

A gravedigger prepares a grave for a COVID-19 victim at Cipenjo cemetery in Bogor, West Java on Wednesday. Credit:AP

With 56,757 new cases on Thursday, Indonesia surged well past India, which has five times its population. It added another 982 deaths as it surpasses the per capita death rate in India at the peak of its outbreak in May and June.

As a percentage of population, Brazil still has double the daily COVID-19 deaths of Indonesia and Britain had six times as many at its lowest ebb last year, but south-east Asias largest nation has shown no sign of being able to slow down the rampant spread of the virus in the past six weeks.
An informed, balanced opinion on any national or international issue must necessarily rest on some basis of fact and truth. Having regard to the superabundance of scientific agencies, it might seem that these two things would be readily ascertainable. The latest, and probably the most intrusive, of these agencies is radio. By means of it unknown human voices may be heard in more than 825,000 Australian homes. On the average estimate that means that practically half of Australias population has access to wireless. The normal services so provided, in infinite forms of edification and entertainment, constitute a distinct part of a wide subject having its own specific merits and problems. But there is also a much more expansive vista within which the air and the radio are being made the media for the most diverse types of overseas propaganda, which has, in turn, within itself the possibility of filling the public mind with needless misapprehensions and unwarranted prejudices.

The radio cabinet held pride of place in homes. Credit:The Age Archives

All-wave receivers are now numerous on the local market, and many Australians are in frequent contact with the worlds leading broadcasting stations. With Europe at present in such a state of unrest it seems an inestimable boon to obtain the precise truth from perhaps each troubled centre. But international listeners are increasingly doubting whether what is poured into their ears is truth or propaganda. In democratic countries broadcasting facilities are, for the most part, prudently, equitably controlled. The radio is, of course, a popular channel for the deliverance of political speeches; all sides are sooner or later presented. Each speech is certain to be succeeded by a counterblast, and the listener is free to determine what is rant and what is reason. There are, however, nations in which it is by no means as easy as that. A recent number of Current History [the US magazine?] includes an article highly illuminating with respect to the wide extent and steady growth of broadcast foreign propaganda and the harm of which such propaganda is capable. It is pointed out that all German radio programmes are supplied by a company which is owned by the Government. Political programmes are controlled from Berlin by Dr. Goebbels. Not only broadcasting, but listening also, is organised. When Hitler, or some other important Nazi, is to make a speech, radio officials see that every factory, public square and school is fitted with receivers and amplifiers. Immense crowds gather to hear what is nothing less than propaganda. Radio diffusion is so organised as to prevent the people from knowing, or from judicially weighing, the pros and cons. It is, however, impossible to keep rival propagandists off the air. Almost nightly programmes in the German language are sent out from Russia painting attractive pictures of Soviet conditions and denouncing Nazism.

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The Soviet Union itself exercises much the same iron control over broadcasting, and is encountering similar difficulties. Last year Russian listeners repeatedly heard a mysterious voice calling over the air from an unknown station: We demand the death of Stalin and the return of our beloved Imperial family. Czecho-Slovakia is a democracy, but it has within its boundaries half a million Hungarians. To these Budapest sends out comforting wireless broadcasts, with the result that at Prague there has been installed a more powerful transmitter to drown out this subversive propaganda. Belgiums ambassador in Rome has protested to the Italian Government against certain allusions made by the official political Fascist broadcaster. Spain has protested because Moscow flooded the big Barcelona station area with Communist propaganda. Italy has forbidden her people to listen to foreign broadcasts entirely.

Several attempts have been made to deal with this chaos. Two years ago Austria, Poland, Czecho Slovakia and Denmark concluded a series of radio non-aggression pacts. Under these they pledged themselves to observe the spirit of co-operation and good understanding in political, religious, economic, intellectual and artistic spheres. But it is significant that at the International Wireless Convention in London in 1933 it was found impossible to obtain the approval of a majority of countries for a general political non-aggression pact. Not one of these countries was prepared to surrender to international control its radio propaganda.
The Volkswagen-Owned Electrify America Plans Expansion Of Charging Network













RESTON, VA - July 15, 2021: NACSonline reported that Electrify America, the largest open direct-current, fast-charging network in the U.S., has announced its Boost Plan to more than double its current electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the United States and Canada by late 2025, the company reports.

Since May 2018, Electrify America has installed an average of four stations each week, and the company wants to have more than 1,800 fast-charging stations and 10,000 individual chargers operating within four years. The expansion will increase the deployment of 150 and 350 kilowatt chargersthe fastest speed currently availableand help pave the way for more EVs in North America.

Building upon Electrify Americas current two cross-country and two coastal routes for cross-country travel, part of this expansion will add a new EV charging highway to the upper Midwest. The company said the additional investment will enhance and grow current ultra-fast charging stations in cities where Electrify America already operates, as well as expand offerings in regions such as the California Central and San Joaquin Valleys and new cities such as Austin, Detroit and Minneapolis/St. Paul. In addition, Electrify America will add chargers in Hawaii, North Dakota, South Dakota, West Virginia, Wyoming and Vermont, expanding Electrify Americas network to 49 U.S. states and the District of Columbia.

The new plan boosts the companys previous commitment to invest $2 billion over 10 years in Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) infrastructure, education and access nationwide. In addition to enhancing its existing U.S. network, Electrify America will expand its Electrify Canada charging network, which began installations in 2019. Electrify Canada will increase its current commitment of 32 stations to more than 100 charging locations and 500 chargers over the next 4.5 years and will install stations in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.

A new report from the Fuels Institute Electric Vehicle Council, EV Consumer Behavior, provides invaluable insight to help guide EV market development. The report details habits of current EV owners, as well as how they might change overtime as EVs become more accessible and consumer friendly with the expansion of the EV charging infrastructure.
Mitsubishi Motors Announces Palm Beach Dealership

Palm Beach, Fla. July 14, 2021; Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) will officially welcome its newest dealership location with a July 16 grand opening celebration in Palm Beach, showcasing Palm Beach Mitsubishis brand-new 14,700 square-foot facility, which has brought more than 35 new jobs to the local area. The days festivities will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the West Palm Beach Chamber of Commerce, an ACV-sanctioned public auto auction, a barbecue and a full day of giveaways.

Palm Beach Mitsubishi is the latest dealer partner to join MMNAs global Visual Identity program. The ground-up construction of the state-of-the-art campus at 2700 S. Australian Ave. meets Mitsubishis latest brand standards for facility design, created to enhance the customer experience in a high-quality retail environment.

Investing in a new facility at the height of COVID underscores our commitment to Palm Beach and to Mitsubishi Motorsweve been able to create dozens of jobs in the area, and with one of the freshest model lineups in the automotive industry, we look forward to becoming the communitys number one destination for their next vehicle purchase, said Palm Beach Mitsubishi Principal Dealer Chris Berian. We want to celebrate this occasion in a big way, so we encourage everyone in the area to come out on July 16 and check out our new spaceitll be a day you wont want to miss.

In addition to the ribbon cutting ceremony with the West Palm Beach Chamber of Commerce at 11:45 a.m. to 12 p.m., there will be a barbecue from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and a full day of giveaways for attendees.

Also, Friday will kick off a two-day interactive auction event through which people can bring their vehicles to Palm Beach Mitsubishi, receive a complimentary auto inspection and sell their car on-the-spot to bidders across the US.

MMNA President and CEO Yoichi Yokozawa will attend the event to celebrate the grand opening of the new Palm Beach Mitsubishi facility and welcome Berian and his team to the growing nationwide network of Mitsubishi dealer partners.

To take part in the Palm Beach Mitsubishis grand opening celebration, go to 2700 South Australian Avenue, West Palm Beach, 33406 on July 16 after 11 a.m. To learn more about the dealership, visit PalmBeachMitsubishi.com.

About Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.

Through a network of approximately 330 dealer partners across the United States, Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for the sales, marketing and customer service of Mitsubishi Motors vehicles in the U.S. MMNA was the top-ranked Japanese brand in the J.D. Power 2020 Initial Quality study, ranking sixth overall and experiencing the greatest year-over-year improvement of any brand.

With headquarters in Franklin, Tennessee, and corporate operations in California, Georgia, Michigan, New Jersey, Texas, Florida and Virginia, MMNA directly and indirectly employs more than 8,000 people across the United States.
Conway, AR (72032)

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Pipeline used to carry crude oil is shown at the Superior terminal of Enbridge Energy in Superior, Wis., in this AP file photo. Former Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton's administration appealed a state regulatory panel's approval of Enbridge Energy's plan to replace its aging Line 3 oil pipeline across northern Minnesota.
Students in fifth grade wear masks as they wait for their teacher in the classroom at Oak Terrace Elementary School in Highwood, Illinois.
Creative Energies Donating $10 K to 9H Research Foundation Solar Project

In support of 9H Research Foundations major solar project and the importance to the development of the solar industry in Wyoming, Creative Energies is excited to announce an in-kind donation of $10,000 to the solar facility.

Creative Energies is designing and installing the 9H Research Foundation solar system, which at 0.5 megawatts (MW) will make it the third largest solar array in Wyoming. The 0.5 MW solar system will be the first phase of the facility (that will eventually total 3 MW) providing University of Wyoming students with opportunities to gain hands-on experiential learning. The research center will also provide live data to help solar developers make equipment decisions for utility-scale solar installations.

The 0.5 MW solar system outside of Laramie will generate 976,200 kilowatt hours annually which is the equivalent of:

16,270 trees planted

810,246 pounds of coal saved

1,274,917 pounds of CO2 avoided

1,005,486 miles not driven

9H Energy Research Foundation with the University of Wyoming as its partner is in a great position to provide state-wide leadership in the deployment of solar in Wyoming. This project and others that follow its model can help to drive innovation, jobs, and economic development on Wyoming's terms. Creative Energies is happy to donate our expertise to this project - doing our part to demonstrate that in Wyoming, we are ready to work together toward a clean energy future. - Scott Kane, Creative Energies Co-Founder and Co-Owner

9H is collaborating with strategic partners to form long-term relationships including the Wyoming NASA Space Grant Consortium and Argonne National Laboratory.

To date, 9H Research Foundation has already sponsored 31 students who competed in a $5,000 Senior Energy Design Challenge, hired two student interns, and funded 5 student groups to design and build solar and energy storage projects.

"The 9H student solar project gives Wyoming students the ability to gain hands-on experience in the clean energy sector and represents an exciting opportunity for the state. The 5 acre project will serve as a state-of-the-art innovation hub to propel research and fund student scholarships, projects, and experiential learning activities for decades to come." -Gene Humphrey, Co-Founder and CEO of 9H Research Foundation, Army Helicopter Pilot Veteran, and UW Alumni

The 0.5 MW solar installation will break ground this fall.
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Batavia, NY (14020)

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Oneonta, NY (13820)

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The Most Rev. Richard F. Stika was appointed bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Knoxville by Pope Benedict XVI in 2009. He is the longest-serving bishop of the diocese and is an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team.
Cranberry Township junkyard owner Randy Spencer has been charged by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission in connection with the July 2019 flooding that washed numerous vehicles, vehicle parts, oil, gas and other fluids from Spencer's property into Lower Two Mile Run and the Allegheny River.
News

Man, 47, shot, airlifted to hospital

HARRIS  A man was shot and then airlifted to the hospital where he underwent surgery Tuesday night.

The Rutherford County Sheriffs Office responded to the 9:24 p.m. shooting at 202 Misty Lane, in the southern portion of Rutherford County near the state line. There they found Roger Charles Ledford, 47, of the home, suffering from a single gunshot wound to the chest and upper arm. Ledford was shot outside his residence in the driveway. He was flown to Spartanburg Medical Center. Ledfords injuries are not considered to be life-threatening, according to Sheriff Chris Francis.

When deputies arrived on the scene, Ledford was talking. Deputies applied a tourniquet to Ledfords arm to help control the bleeding. Detectives also talked to Ledford prior to surgery, which Francis described as exploratory and cautionary. Ledford identified his shooter as Dusty Lane Jolley, 48, of Chesnee, South Carolina.

The victim said Jolley showed up and was asked to leave. A verbal altercation ensued and then the shooting, Francis said.

The sheriff said the victim knew of Jolley, a former suitor to Ledfords current girlfriend.

It appears to be over a girlfriend, Francis said. I dont know all the details of the relationship. I doubt well ever know.

Francis said South Carolina authorities went to the last known residence for Jolley, but he was not present. Jolly reportedly fled the scene driving a black GMC pickup truck in the direction of South Carolina. As of Wednesday morning, Jolly remained at large. An arrest warrant for Jolly for the charge of assault with a deadly weapon, inflicting serious injury has been secured.

Ledford told investigators that Jolly used a handgun to shoot him, Francis said. The sheriff said Ledford was struck with birdshot. He described Jolleys weapon as a revolver that shoots .410 caliber shells.
10 Tips to Boost Employee Productivity and Skyrocket Performance

Employee Engagement Continues To Play a Crucial Part in Managing a Company

A companys success and productivity are directly related to the productivity of its employees. If you are willing to achieve your goals, set higher targets and get the desired traction, you need to make sure that your employees achieve their targets and bring productivity to the company.

The management must keep track of employee productivity and work towards improving the same. As the needs of employees have changed significantly over time, it has become essential to cater to their needs and provide them with a conducive work environment to increase their productivity.

Employee engagement has always played an essential role in determining employee productivity within an organization. If your employees are genuinely driven towards their work and look forward to coming to work every morning, they are more likely to give their best and work harder to improve their productivity. On the other hand, disgruntled and dissatisfied employees tend to slack at work and bring productivity down.

This is why an organization needs to keep track of employee productivity and implement ways to increase the same over time. Although there is no standard procedure to measure employee productivity within an organization, here is a basic approach that will give you an idea about how productive your employees are.

The most commonly used method of measuring employee productivity is comparing an employees performance with the cost they bring to your organization. Here, the aim is to ascertain the value provided by an employee for the amount the company is spending behind them.

If you want to quantify the productivity of an employee, you can start by clearly defining the performance standard for your employees against which you will measure their productivity levels. Then, calculate the total amount of dedicated hours or minutes spent by your employees working in your organization. For example, if your employees work five days a week for eight hours every day, they spend 40 hours or 2400 minutes at work every week.

After calculating the time spent by your employees at work, deduct the hours or minutes that are not spent, adding to their productivity. This time includes lunch breaks, meetings, leaves, short office breaks and other time outside work hours.

For example, out of the total 2,400 minutes spent working, if your employee spends 30 minutes on lunch break, 30 minutes on other short breaks and one hour on meetings every day, you can deduct 500 hours from the weekly time spent by the employee working. This would imply that your employee is productive for 1,900 minutes in a week.

You can represent your employees productivity by dividing the net minutes spent working by the total work time available in a week. Sticking to the same example, the productivity of your employee would be 79 percent.

Related: 7 Ways to Enter the Productivity Zone Faster and Focus Better

Now that weve discussed quantifying employee productivity, here are some of the most important tips toward making your employees more productive at work.

1. Providing Seamless Employee Support

A great deal of employee productivity depends on the support provided by the employer. It is common for employees to encounter issues while workingget them resolved in the best way possible. If you are willing to increase the productivity of your employees, make sure, you implement a modern service desk within your organization.

The modern employee service desk is a one-stop solution for a range of challenges faced by your employees. Driven by AI, it understands the context of the issues faced by your employees and provides them with solutions that are tailored just for them. Unlike traditional service desks that confuse employees with a manual ticketing system, the AI-driven alternative makes the ticketing system invisible, allowing your employees to auto-resolve their issues.

When your employees can get quick and personalized solutions to their problems, they will focus more on the work to be donethereby increasing their productivity. Moreover, integrated employee support makes employees feel valued by the company, resulting in higher engagement.

2. Effective Onboarding of Employees

The first few weeks are always the defining ones for a new employee as well as the organization. This period builds a foundation for the journey your employee will take with your company. It is always crucial to onboard your employees effectively to increase their productivity.

Spend enough time to plan the onboarding process and divide the same into different phases. Always ensure that you make the new employees feel comfortable in the new work environment. Employees will be able to give their best only if they are comfortable with their new team members.

A great deal of employee onboarding is about giving a perfect welcome to your employees. Make sure you send a warm welcome (either personally or via email) to them. Send a personalized email with their login credentials for the platforms they will work on, details about their colleagues and leaders, company policies and what the company expects from them.

Always ensure that the new employees are provided with the necessary gadgets and resources to work with from their very first day. Set up their laptops, desktops, and optimize them for ease of operation. Provide training to the new employees during their first few days and weeks in the company.

3. Delegating Authorities and Responsibilities

Especially in startups and SMEs, it is common for the entrepreneur and management to want to perform a range of tasks by themselves. One way to increase employee productivity is to delegate responsibilities and authority.

Assess the capabilities of your employees and allow capable employees to shoulder the responsibilities of handling a group of subordinates. Divide the work so that specific employees get to lead teams performing tasks they are best at. This will relieve the core management from performing multiple processes and effectively manage business processes across the organization.

4. Being Well-Versed With the Skills of Your Employees

Always match the tasks allotted to your employees with their skills. Employees will naturally perform well if they are performing tasks that they love and are good at. Just like how letting a single employee perform a range of tasks is not advisable, making employees work outside of their comfort zone or skill set will lead to a decline in productivity.

5. Focusing on Effective Communication

The root of most evils is a lack of communication. Ensure you have enough provisions that allow the management to communicate with your employees and the employees to communicate with each other. Establish dedicated communication channels, whether they are personal, via phone calls, emails or video calls.

From communicating with your employees about their work, to encouraging casual conversations, it is important to establish effective communication across your organization to bring the best out of your employeesespecially if they are working remotely.

6. Have Well-Defined Goals

Unless your employees are aware of the specific goals and objectives to be achieved, they will not work in a dedicated direction and provide you with the desired results. Always make sure you communicate the goals you are willing to achieve to your employees. This will give them a push to work better and improve their quality of work.

7. Provide Adequate Incentives

Providing the right incentives to employees will genuinely motivate them to work harder and improve their productivity. However, it is important to understand that incentives should not be limited to monetary rewards. Here are some effective incentives that you can offer to your employees:

Paid time off

A handwritten note of gratitude

Flexible work hours (on specific days)

Access to workplace wellness program

Dedicated trophies

8. Avoid Overworking Your Employees

When your employees get overworked and exhausted, their productivity takes a hitirrespective of the time they dedicate to work. Always encourage your employees to work only during their dedicated work hours, and avoid giving them tasks beyond their bandwidth.

9. Train Your Employees Well

One of the most effective means of making your employees more productive is by providing them with extensive training. Arrange dedicated training sessions, webinars and workshops (online/offline) to help your employees develop new skills and nourish their existing ones.

10. Giving Honest Feedback

Finally, make sure you are completely transparent and honest with your employees while giving them feedback. Appreciating their achievements will motivate them to work harder, and pointing out their mistakes will help them improve their work.

Related: 36 Insanely Useful Productivity Hacks

These are some of the most effective tips to follow to increase employee productivity within your organization. What measures will you adopt to leverage the productivity of your employees?
19-Year-Old Charged With Hate Crime for Destroying Back the Blue Sign as Officer Issues Speeding Ticket

A 19-year-old woman was arrested and charged with a hate crime last week for allegedly destroying on a Back the Blue sign during a speeding incident in Garfield, Utah.

The woman was identified as Lauren Gibson, a Californian college student who was heading back home with a group of friends last week from a camping trip in Panguitch, Utah.

According to the affidavit of probable cause obtained by The Salt Lake Tribune, a Garfield County police officer pulled over one of the cars in Gibsons group to issue a speeding ticket. He noticed that some people tried to console the driver as he issued the speeding ticket. One of them then stomped on a Back the Blue sign, crumbled it up in a destructive manner and threw it into a trash can all while smirking in an intimidating manner towards [the officer].

According to the affidavit, the officer approached the young woman and asked where she had gotten the sign. She stated it was her mothers. The officer told the woman that to his knowledge, those specific signs were from the local sheriffs office. After reading her Miranda rights, the woman allegedly gave inconsistent stories before saying that she had found it on the ground.

Due to [Gibson] destroying property that did not belong to her in a manner to attempt to intimidate law enforcement, I placed her under arrest, the affidavit reads.

The Garfield County prosecutors have also charged her with a hate crime, which enhances her criminal mischief charge to a class A misdemeanor.

The Utah Criminal Code states that if a person commits an offense with the intent to intimidate or terrorize another person or with reason to believe that his action would intimidate or terrorize that person, then the offense would be enhancedin this case, a class B misdemeanor offense becomes a class A misdemeanor.

Intimidate or terrorize means an act which causes the person to fear for his physical safety or damages the property of that person or another. The act must be accompanied with the intent to cause or has the effect of causing a person to reasonably fear to freely exercise or enjoy any right secured by the Constitution or laws of the state or by the Constitution or laws of the United States, the code explains.

The affidavit claimed the incident involves a hate crime enhanced allegation due to the demeanor displayed by [Gibson] in attempts to intimidate law enforcement while destroying a Pro Law Enforcement sign.

In April 2019, the hate crime legislation Victim Targeting Penalty Enhancements was signed into law in Utah. Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes said at the time that the hate crime law would protect us all and does not police or punish speech or thought.

The law states that status as a law enforcement officer, correctional officer, special function officer, or any other peace officer is a protected personal attribute as much as race, sex, religion, ethnicity, and disability.

A police officer stands watch in front of the Utah State Capitol building waiting for a protest to start in Salt Lake City, Utah on June 5, 2020. (George Frey/AFP via Getty Images)

Gibson was bailed out of jail after spending a night on July 7. She faces up to a year in prison or a fine of up to $2,500.

I just wanted to, I dont know, make her feel better or [do] something or stand up for her, Gibson told the Daily Beast of her friend who received the speeding ticket. I dont feel like I did anything wrong.

If it was a dentists sign or something and I just crushed a dentist sign or something in front of them, like, nothing would have happened, she said. Its the same thing. Its just an occupation.

Advocacy group ACLU of Utah said they are extremely troubled and disappointed with the decision of the Garfield County Attorneys office to add a hate crime enhancement to Gibsons charge.

This kind of charging decision sends an extremely chilling message to the community that the government will seek harsher punishment for people charged with crimes who disagree with police actions, ACLU of Utah said in a statement on Monday. Bringing a charge against this person that could result in her spending a year in jail makes no sense both in terms of simple fairness and expending the countys time and money.

The Epoch Times has reached the Garfield County Attorneys office for comment.

This is not the first time the Garfield County sheriffs office has made such an arrest.

Last August, Joseph Dawson, 32, was arrested by a Garfield County policeman for pulling down a similar Back the Blue sign and replacing the word blue with bisexual using spray paint.

He was later found guilty and sentenced to two days in jail and a year of probation, the Daily Beast reported.
(Courtesy of Heather Duplessis and Lauren Bagneris via LSU Health Sciences Center)

2 Medical Students Respond to Call for Passengers to Help During Mid-Air Emergency on Flight to Greece

Late last month, two young medical students made their medical school proud after they responded to a patient in an emergency mid-air during a flight to Greece.

The two women, Heather Duplessis and Lauren Bagneris, students at LSU Health Sciences Center, were on a flight to the Mediterranean nation when a call sounded on the plane seeking medical professionals.

According to a Facebook post by the medical school, passengers did not respond to the emergency call, prompting the students to volunteer.

Two LSU Health New Orleans medical students on a flight to Greece were sure in the right place at the right time, read the social media post.

The students rose, identified themselves as medical students, and proceeded to offer their assistance to the patient.

(Courtesy of Heather Duplessis and Lauren Bagneris via LSU Health Sciences Center)

A female passenger had become lightheaded and fell due to low blood sugar and being overheated, wrote the medical school.

The students applied their medical training, calmed the patient, and had her eat something and drink some juice.

Heather and Lauren communicated with a doctor on the ground and took her BP, pulse and blood sugar, continued the post.

After the students applied care, the patient ended up feeling much better.

The medical school expressed pride. Way to Geaux Tigers! You do us proud!!! read the post.

Social media users were impressed, too, and the post ended up going viral, garnering some 18,000 reactions, being shared 21,000 times.

So glad they were on board. Makes me even more proud of our grandson, Joshua, who is starting 3rd year at LSUMS, commented Facebook user Mary Ricks.

We are so proud of Heather and Lauren. This says a lot about an LSU education!!! added another social media user.

(Courtesy of Heather Duplessis and Lauren Bagneris via LSU Health Sciences Center)

Share your stories with us at emg.inspired@epochtimes.com, and continue to get your daily dose of inspiration by signing up for the Epoch Inspired Newsletter at TheEpochTimes.com/newsletter
24-Year-Old Chicago Police Officer Dies in Apparent Suicide

CHICAGOA Chicago police officer was found dead due to an apparent suicide on the morning of July 14, according to the Chicago Police Department (CPD).

The officer, 24-year-old Christian Furczon, was found dead at around 7 a.m. near Nathan Hale Elementary School in the Clearing neighborhood on the Southwest Side of Chicago.

According to city records, Furczon had been a police officer with the CPD since October 2018.

Autopsy results released on July 15 confirmed the cause of death as suicide. Furczon was the third CPD officer to take his own life this year.

The department experienced the heartbreaking loss of one of our police officers to an apparent suicide.  Being a police officer is not an easy job and our officers carry the weight of the world on their shoulders, Chicago Police Superintendent David Brown said in a statement sent to The Epoch Times.

Dr. Carrie Steiner, a police psychologist and certified trauma professional, knows well the weight on officers shoulders. Her Chicago suburban office is visited by around 300 police officers every month, one out of five being CPD officers who seek her help to cope with mental health concerns.

A lot of that weight has to do with the critical incidents they see at work daily, Steiner said. Critical incidents are those situations that most people wouldnt encounter in their daily lives, such as seeing a tortured baby or murder victim, or being shot at by violent people at work. The weight of these experiences can easily lead to mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and alcohol addiction.

An average person sees one to five critical incidents in their lifetime, Steiner said. An average police officer at a small to medium police agency sees around 188 critical incidents during their 20 years at work. But for a large metro police department such as CPD, the numbers are a lot higher.

In my first year at the Chicago Police Department, I think I had 200 critical incidents, Steiner told The Epoch Times. She served as a police officer at CPD for 13 years before becoming a police psychologist.

Dr. Carrie Steiner at work. (Courtesy of Carrie Steiner)

Some traumas will be harder to overcome than others. Steiner had developed trauma while on duty after seeing a dead Hispanic 5-year-old in a car crash.

He was the same age as my nephew. Anytime there was an accident, I always thought back to him. Anytime I saw a Hispanic family, I thought back to him. Steiner said.

It took her nearly 2 1/2 years of therapy to overcome the trauma.

Another burden on officers shoulders is the backbreaking working hours; for almost a year now, they have been constantly asked to work 12-hour shifts with no days off, Steiner said.

If you are just working a regular job, you can go home and probably fall asleep pretty quickly. But if you just got off a shift [where] you saw a dead baby, its going to be hard to fall asleep, she said.

Many officers suffer from severe sleep deprivation, making it much harder for them to decompress and recuperate, she said. Most officers she speaks with only sleep four to five hours each night.

According to lawyer Gershon Kulek, who helps many Chicago police officers with their divorce proceedings, another source of police stress is the fear of being punished for doing their jobs under the current political and societal environment.

When an offender fights with police, the police have to use more force to put that person into control. When something goes wrong in that process, the officers could be charged with a crime, Kulek told The Epoch Times.

So there is this extra stress on all officers at work, What if something happens? Am I going to get charged with a crime? Many are afraid to do their jobs.

When all this mental stress builds up within officers, if they dont have a way to find release on their own, they may wind up releasing it on loved ones at home, Kulek said. When that happens, it often leads to marital problems or even divorceanother source of mental stress.

Two other Chicago police officers committed suicide earlier this year.

On March 1, Officer James Daly, 47, fatally shot himself in a locker room inside his district police station on the North Side of the city.

On March 5, Officer Jeffery Troglia, 38, fatally shot himself at his home in the Mount Greenwood neighborhood on the Southwest Side of the city.

Following the officers deaths, CPD hired a senior adviser on wellness, National Alliance on Mental Illness Chicago CEO Alexa James, to create a comprehensive officer wellness plan.
41 Percent of Baltimore High School Students Earn Below 1.0 GPA: Analysis

A significant number of Baltimore public high school students earned below a D grade point average during the first three quarters of the 20202021 school year, according to an analysis.

The analysis by Project Baltimore, an investigative reporting series by Fox affiliate WBFF, found that during that time period, 41 percent earned a 1.0-grade point average (GPA) or below. That would mean that more than 8,400 of Baltimore City Schools 20,500 students are getting grades below a D overall.

Meanwhile, the analysis found that 21 percent of city high school students obtained a 3.0 or better GPAor a B average.

The school district, in a statement to Fox News and other outlets, appeared to blame the poor student performance on the COVID-19 pandemic.

Consistent with the experience of many school districts across the country, the COVID-19 pandemic created significant disruptions to student learning. As early as the summer of 2020, City Schools identified large numbers of students with decreases in their grade point averages and classroom performance when compared to past performances, Baltimore City Schools stated.

The statement added that City Schools is providing students with a variety of opportunities to acquire the unfinished learning they lost and each students progress will be assessed, and an action plan will be developed to complete any unfinished learning, which will guide families and teachers in helping students get back on track.

Across the United States, a number of public schools struggled to implement online learning for students during COVID-19-related lockdowns. Some districts saw an increased rate of failures and an increase in absences from classes.

For example, nearby Anne Arundel County in Maryland saw failure rates more than double to 7 percent from 3 percent, according to data obtained by the Baltimore Sun.

Jovani Patterson, who ran for Baltimore City Council president last year, noted that the school district absorbs a considerable amount of funding but doesnt deliver results.

We dont see much change. Our schools outspend 97 percent of other major school districts, he said in a campaign ad.

They dont care, man. They come from the same environment, Patterson said of city officials and what he described as an inability to deliver positive results for students. The Baltimore City Council leader, Nick Mosby, and other officials are a product of Baltimore City schools.

But then when you bring this [analysis] to them, they dont care. They dont care at all. You have to raise the standard  Everyone should be speaking out about this.

Officials for the city of Baltimore and its school district didnt immediately respond to a request by The Epoch Times for comment.
Then-Special counsel Robert Mueller speaks on the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election, at the U.S. Justice Department in Washington on May 29, 2019. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images)

59 of 96 Phones Assigned to Robert Mueller Probe Missing: GOP Senators

Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) have sent a letter to the Department of Justice (DOJ) requesting more information about missing cellphones that were used by then-special counsel Robert Mueller during his investigation into former President Donald Trumps 2016 campaign.

In a statement, the senators said they were compelled to send the letter (pdf) after the DOJ failed to review more than 20 phones for record preservation after Grassley in September 2020 asked about a possible violation of federal record-keeping laws, following a Freedom of Information Act revelation showing records on devices used by Muellers team had been deleted.

The DOJs Office of the Inspector General in September 2020, the senators wrote, told them that several phones belonging to multiple people on then-Special Counsel Robert Muellers investigative team were wiped for various reasons during [the Russia investigation]. Meanwhile, on May 11, the inspector general said 59 of 96 phones assigned to Muellers team couldnt be located, according to the senators.

Relating to the phones, the two senators are seeking the names of the special counsels office team members whose cellphones werent reviewed by officials, if there are any actions being taken to recover the missing phones, and whether the DOJ reviewed the devices to see if they were used to leak sensitive or classified information, among other requests.

Sen. Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) speaks before the Senate Judiciary Committee in Washington, on Oct. 14, 2020. (Susan Walsh/AP Photo)

The Mueller probe in 2018 ultimately concluded that Trumps campaign didnt collude with the Russian government, although Democrats in Congress have continued to accuse Trump of having a cozy relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin. For the past several years, Grassley and Johnson have sent a number of requests to the DOJ about the investigation, as well as asking the agency about records relating to President Joe Bidens son Hunter Biden.

Around the same time that House Democrats were leading an impeachment inquiry into Trumps efforts in Ukraine in late 2019, the DOJs inspector general released a report finding that the FBI abused the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) court processes in obtainingand renewingwarrants to surveil former Trump campaign aide Carter Page. In all, the inspector general found at least 17 significant errors or omissions in the FISA surveillance of Page.

That so many basic and fundamental errors were made by three separate, hand-picked teams on one of the most sensitive FBI investigations that were briefed to the highest levels within the FBI, and that FBI officials expected would eventually be subjected to close scrutiny, the report stated, raised significant questions regarding the FBI chain of commands management and supervision of the FISA process.

DOJ officials didnt immediately respond to a request by The Epoch Times for comment.
8 Fully Vaccinated Health Care Workers Test Positive for CCP Virus in Las Vegas: Report

Eight fully vaccinated health care workers tested positive for COVID-19 in June after attending a party in Las Vegas, according to a report.

A total of 11 health care workers had tested positive for COVID-19 after the gathering, and at least 10 of the 11or seven out of the fully-vaccinated eighthad the Delta variant of the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported, citing emails from the Southern Nevada Health District that the Brown Institute for Media Innovations Documenting COVID-19 project obtained and shared with the paper.

According to the report, eight fully vaccinated people were inoculated between December 2020 and January. Of the remaining three people, two had received one dose of a two-dose vaccine and one person was unvaccinated.

They were all employees of Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center. Hospital CEO Todd Sklamberg told the paper that the source of the outbreak was an off-site private party on June 7 and that the employees have since recovered and returned to work.

He noted that the health care workers had experienced symptoms similar to allergies or the common cold and chose to get tested before finding out they had the CCP virus.

There were no exposures to our patients, as our staff complies with all [personal protective equipment] guidelines, masking at all times and wearing face shields with all patient encounters, he said.

No evidence of improper storage or handling issues were found with the vaccine that the hospital administers to its employees and patients, a health district representative told the paper.

The Delta variant was first identified in India late last year before spreading to dozens of other countries this year.

It became the most dominant version of the CCP virus, circulating in the United States over the two weeks ending on July 3, accounting for approximately 51.7 percent of all new virus cases across the country, according to estimates by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The variant represents about 62 percent of new infections in Nevada over the past 60 days.

Researchers have said its too early to say whether its more or less deadly than other variants of the CCP virus. Correspondence published in The Lancet in June suggested that the chance of hospitalization may be higher with the Delta variant compared to the earlier Alpha variant.

More than 48 percent of the total U.S. population has been fully vaccinated against the virus as of July 15, according to the CDC, while more than 56 percent have had at least one dose of a two-dose vaccine.
Carina Lennquist, Deputy Regional Police Chief, gives an interview following a press conference at the city hall in Vetlanda on March 4, 2021, one day after a stabbing attack. (Jonathan Nackstrand/AFP via Getty Images)

Afghan Man Gets Life for March Stabbing Rampage in Sweden

COPENHAGEN, DenmarkA 22-year-old Afghan asylum-seeker was convicted Wednesday of attempted murder and sentenced to life imprisonment for a knife attack that injured seven people in a southern Swedish town earlier this year.

Tamin Sultani was shot by police and arrested after an 18-minute rampage on March 3. Investigators who dismissed terrorism as a motive charged him with seven cases of attempted murder.

The Eksjo District Court said Sultani will be deported after serving his time. He has said he wanted to go back to Afghanistan.

The life sentence, which doesnt have a fixed time, is the most severe punishment in Sweden.

Sultani attacked seven men with a 22-centimeter (8.7-inch) blade in the small town of Vetlanda, about 190 kilometers (118 miles) southeast of Goteborg, Swedens second-largest city.

Three of the victims survived life-threatening injuries, two were seriously injured, two others were moderately injured and one individual was slightly hurt. Police initially said the attacker used an ax but it later turned out that Sultani was armed with a knife.

In its verdict, the district court said Sultani used a kitchen knife that he had picked up at his apartment because he was so upset about something blasphemous done to his god and wanted to kill that person.

Nothing has emerged that that Tamim Sultani in advance had any plan to injure or attempt to kill the seven plaintiffs in the case, the court said, adding he didnt know the people he attacked.

However, the district court found that there was a concrete danger that those attacked would die and that Sultani in all cases had directed violence against peoples vital organs.

The court said it appears that he had avoided some schoolgirls he met, noting Sultani had told that he understood the teenage girls laughed at him but would be afraid of the knife, so he hid it in his sleeve.

Sultani sought asylum in Sweden in 2016. During the trial, he said he hadnt managed to get a job and only managed to work in various internships. When his temporary residence permit expired, he was no longer allowed to study or work.

Sultani claimed he twice attempted to commit suicide a week before the knife attacks,

It was as if the brain had stopped working. I felt very bad mentally, he told the court. A court-ordered psychiatric evaluation concluded that the man wasnt mentally disturbed at the time of the attack and was fit for a prison sentence.

During the trial in a high-security courtroom, he confessed to three of the attacks and said he doesnt remember the other four attacks but believes the victims accounts.

In November 2020, he had applied for a renewal of his temporary staying permit and the immigration authorities havent yet taken a decision.

By Jan M. Olsen
African American community leaders hold a Zoom press conference on July 8 to voice opposition to the legalization of hallucinogenic drugs in California. (Courtesy of Kelli Reid of McNally Temple Associates)

African American Community Leaders Speak Against Legalizing Hallucinogens in California

African American community leaders in California held a press conference on July 8 to voice opposition to a bill that would legalize hallucinogenic drugs in the state.

Senator Scott Wiener (D-Calif.) has stated that Senate Bill 519 is meant to address the war on drugs and to help veterans better access these drugs to manage their mental health needs.

Lets be clear that theres another reason, and that is  the racist war on drugs, which has fueled mass incarceration and torn apart communities, particularly communities of color, but not made us any safer, Wiener said during a press conference on June 28.

Attendees at the July 8 conference disagreed with Wieners reasons.

We are not the scapegoats who make drugs legal in this country. We are not, said Tak Allen, president of the Congress of Racial Equality, during the conference. If there is a senator, an assembly member, anybody who is an elected official that has a concern for the injustices of the African American community, write in that policy that speaks to that specifically. We dont need more drugs.

Wiener introduced SB 519 on Feb. 17. The bill aims to legalize certain hallucinogenic drugs, including but not limited to LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, heroin, and MDMA (commonly known as ecstasy or molly).

If passed, the bill would allow people 21 years of age or older to buy, use, and share hallucinogenic drugs without penalties.

Thats whats insidious and evil, said Reverend Timothy Malone, Campus and Community Minister. We know what drugs and devastation that is created in our communities, in all communities; red, brown, yellow, black, and white; rich, poor, and everyone in between.

Carolyn Brown, minister and community advocate, said that crimes including robbery, rape, and violence are already widespread in the African American community.

Our community opposes SB 519 completely, and we just need more structure. Let [drugs] stay in the hands of the physicians, the professionals, and not in the hands of our politicians, she said.

According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), hallucinogens are a schedule 1 drug. This means these substances have a high potential for abuse and, currently, no accepted medical use in the United States. These substances also have the most regulatory restrictions on research, supply, and access.

If were very concerned about using these for medicinal value, medicinal reasons, go through the FDA like everybody else. Go through and get it taken off the controlled substances list, and have a licensed physician, have a licensed therapist or psychiatrist, who can handle these drugs and medications, run their trials. Do it the right way, said Allen.

Jesse Williams, a community member, stated that his community and the Veterans Association all oppose the bill, arguing that drug legalization will harm and set a bad example for younger generations.

In response to Wieners statement that legalizing hallucinogens will help veterans manage their mental health, Joe Collins, U.S. Navy veteran, told The Epoch Times that hallucinogens are not a common prescription.

I think the majority of the things that we get are painkillers, really strong painkillers, more than hallucinogenics, said Collins.

My experience is that the success rate of mental health treatment for addiction is extremely low, Loretta Breuning, mental health researcher, author, and founder of the Inner Mammal Institute, told The Epoch Times.

She sees this type of legislation as part of a larger effort to decriminalize drugs by treating them as a mental health problem rather than a crime.

Some Californians have been holding protests to oppose the bill. On June 25, people in San Francisco and Los Angeles called the bill out for potentially legalizing ketamine. According to the DEA, ketamine is sometimes used to assist in sexual assault crimes.

As of July 1, ketamine has been removed from the bill.

Older versions of the bill called for dismissing prior convictions related to drug use, but such wording has also been removed.

On July 13, SB 519 passed the Assembly Committee on Health in an 84 vote. The bill is now awaiting a hearing and vote from the Committee on Appropriations followed by the State Assembly.
American Airlines flight attendants walk along the concourse at DFW International Airport in Dallas, Texas, in a file photo. (Smiley N. Pool/Dallas Morning News/TNS)

American Airlines Plans to Cancel Voluntary Leaves for Flight Attendants Later This Year

By Grace Lieberman

From The Dallas Morning News

American Airlines plans to cancel voluntary leaves taken by its flight attendants in November, December and January, as it anticipates an uptick in holiday travel will create a need for extra staffing.

According to a letter from the Association of Professional Flight Attendants to its 28,000 members, its unclear how many leaves will be canceled. Under a July 2020 agreement between the Fort Worth-based airline and the union, the carrier can cancel or reduce leaves with at least 60 days notice if a need for more flight attendants arises.

Voluntary leaves were one of the steps American Airlines took last year to slow its losses as the COVID-19 pandemic decimated the air travel industry. The airline offered pilots voluntary leaves ranging from a month to six months and up to a year for flight attendants. Both groups were also offered early retirement packages.

In April and May of last year, 4,800 pilots were given leaves and 715 were granted early retirement. Some 7,200 flight attendants took leave and 760 retired early.

Over one year after the company gave about a third of its staff leaves and retirement packages, American is ramping operations back up as flights started filling up again in March and the company reported generating income in June, the first month in over a year.

On Tuesday, American Airlines said its on track toward recovery, boasting multiple company bests in a quarterly investor update.

The airline has gone from losing $100 million a day at the height of the pandemic to making $1 million a day in the three-month period from April through June, according to a letter to employees from CEO Doug Parker and President Robert Isom.

The company already recalled a number of furloughed flight attendants before the summer travel season.

2021 The Dallas Morning News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Archaeologists Identify 9th Century Anglo-Saxon Cave House

Archaeologists from the Royal Agricultural University, working with colleagues from Wessex Archaeology, conducted detailed surveys of the Anchor Church Caves, between the villages of Foremark and Ingleby.

Researchers say the rooms narrow doorways and windows closely resemble Saxon architecture.

A rock-cut pillar is similar to those found in a Saxon crypt at nearby Repton thats believed to have been completed by the Mercian King Wiglaf who reigned as King of Merciaa kingdom in the English Midlands from the sixth century to the 10th centuryfrom 827 until his death in 839.

Youve got the doors, the windows, the ceilings, the floors. Its fragmentary, its been knocked around, but its there, explains principal investigator Edmund Simons from the Royal Agricultural University.

Theres no other place, really, in Britain where you can walk into something so old, where people were living, cooking, sleeping, eating, and praying.

Caves, such as the Anchor Church Caves, are often associated with anonymous medieval hermits.

But researchers say in this case theres a legendary association between the caves and Saint Hardulph.

A fragment of a 16th century printed book states that at the time, Saint Hardulph has a cell in a cliff a little from the Trent. Local folklore identifies the caves as those Hardulph occupied.

Scholars identify Hardulph with King Eardwulf, a king of Northumbria who was deposed in 806.

Hardulph died in around 830 and was buried at Breedon on the Hill, just five miles from the caves.

Its thought that some of the surviving sculptures in the villages church, which was founded as a monastery in the seventh century, came from his shrine.

Hes had a very long and eventful career up in Northumbria, surviving executions, committing adultery, murdering people, says the churchs heritage officer, Rachel Askew.

So, now its a case of hes been deposed as king, so hes come for a quiet retirement, as it were, sitting by the River Trent.

The area around the nearby village of Repton was a location of intensive Viking activity.

Shortly after Hardulphs death, Vikings set up a winter camp at Repton.

Archaeologists believe the caves may have been modified in the 18th century, with changes including the addition of brickwork and window frames, and the opening up of some of the wall openings in order that well-dressed ladies could pass.
Rep. Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.) descrbes reports of Jan. 6 protestors being held in solitary confinement at a rally to free the 535 "political prisoners" on July 14, 2021, in Scottsdale, Arizona. (Allan Stein/Epoch Times)

Arizona Rally Demands Release of Jan. 6 Political Prisoners

Hoisting flags and political signs, more than 250 Arizona conservatives rallied in Scottsdale on July 14 to demand the release of pro-Trump protesters being held in federal prisons since Jan. 6.

This nation will not be [made] safe by cowards, said keynote speaker Matt Braynard of Look Ahead America, co-sponsor of the rally with local branch Look Ahead Arizona, at Sue Woods Scottsdale Studios.

Both groups have called upon conservatives to organize at the community level to free more than 500 pro-Trump protesters in federal custody.

Braynard, a former Trump data analyst, is leading the charge with Look Ahead America to release what he called political prisoners.

He said the July 14 rally was a run-up to a large political protest to be held on July 17 at a federal prison in Washington.

While the FBI has arrested 535 protesters, Braynard said, in almost all cases, these were non-violent people.

Theyre losing their jobs because their employers dont want to employ them, Braynard said, noting that 100 to 200 people have been held without bail since they were arrested. Theyre not forgotten.

He also spoke of the shooting death of Ashley Babbitt by a still unidentified White House security member inside the Capitol building on Jan. 6.

I cant help but wonder how a 90-pound woman who clearly was not armedwhy the response was a bullet, Braynard said. Youre in the cross-hairs, too. The insurrection narrative is the root of a very poisonous treethe Big Lie of insurrection.

The rally was framed around Arizonas coyote-skin clad Q-Anon Shaman, Jacob Chansley, who turned himself in to authorities three days after the Washington protest.

Jeff Blase of Phoenix, wielding a Free Jake! sign, said he attended the rally to support Chansley and other political detainees.

If you know anything about Jake, hes a non-violent person, said Blase, who participated in other protests with Chansley. Jake is a very smart individual as well.

To prove his point, Blase said Chansley was videotaped inside the Senate Chambers leading the protesters in prayer.

The reason Im here is because of people like Jake who are nonviolent and who are being held in the [federal] gulag, Blase said.

Chansleys St. Louis-based defense attorney, Albert Watkins, described the conditions his client is facing in jail as gulag-like treatment.

Mr. Chansley has been in solitary confinement since he voluntarily and peacefully surrendered himself to federal authorities on Jan. 9, Watkins told The Epoch Times in an email. His mental health and emotional well-being are significantly challenged. His ability to focus on his own defense has been encumbered.

He was not violent or disorderly or destructive in any manner. He was not armed. He did not threaten. There is no end in sight. His only reliable unmonitored contact with the outside world is his attorneyme. He is alone.

Martha Chansley, Jakes mother, told those attending the July 14 gathering that her son called her just minutes before the rally.

He is very touched and he really appreciates you and your love and your support and your prayers, because its really tough. Its a tough time, she said.

It takes a lot of courage to do what you know is right. Lets continue to keep this faith because ultimately, in the end, God wins.

Martha Chansley, mother of imprisoned Jan. 6 protestor and Arizona resident Jacob Chansley, also known as the Q-Anon Shaman, makes a plea for the release of her son during a rally on July 14, 2021, in Scottsdale, Arizona. (Allan Stein/Epoch Times)

Congressman Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.) told those attending the rally that he was protesting for the fair treatment of those arrested in connection with the Capitol breach.

There are reports that some of the prisoners have been tortured or held in solitary confinement 24 hours a day, he said.

What are they trying to hide? Americans deserve the truth. [The prisoners] need to be treated fairly and with due process. So we have come here to demand equal justice under the law.

Arizona state Rep. Mark Finchem, a Republican, asked the crowd rhetorically, Have you seen my country lately?

Arizona State Rep. Mark Finchem (R) speaks at a rally for the release of 535 people arrested for their role in the Capitol riot, on July 14, 2021, in Scottsdale, Arizona. (Allan Stein/Epoch Times)

This is what Bolsheviks do. They destroy people. They steal from people. They lie and they cheat, and then they kill you. [Jan. 6] was a setup. Thats what Bolsheviks do. One day, I pray to God that the individuals who have foisted this upon us will be held accountable for the treason they have committed.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken delivers remarks on the release of the 2021 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report at the State Department in Washington, D.C., on July 1, 2021. (Ken Cedeno/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Biden Administration Invites UN Racism Investigators to Visit US

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Tuesday that the administration has invited experts from the United Nations (U.N.) who investigate racism and minority issues to conduct an official visit to the United States.

As a first step, we have reached out to offer an official visit by the U.N. Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism and the U.N. Special Rapporteur on minority issues, Blinken said in a statement. Responsible nations must not shrink from scrutiny of their human rights record; rather, they should acknowledge it with the intent to improve.

I urge all U.N. member states to join the United States in this effort, and confront the scourge of racism, racial discrimination, and xenophobia, he said.

Blinken said the administration welcomes the U.N. Human Rights Councils approval of a resolution to address systemic racism against Africans and people of African descent in relation to law enforcement.

Racial equity and police brutality against black people has been in the spotlight in the United States since the May 2020 killing of a black man George Floyd, by a Minneapolis police officer ignited nationwide protests against racism and police brutality. A video circulated of the police officer kneeling on Floyds neck for over 9 minutes.

While many of the protests were peaceful some turned violent, with looting and rioting.

Many of the protestors called for defunding police precincts and changing laws that protect police officers from being held liable for their decisions to use excessive force or shoot a suspect.

While advocates for defunding the police say that police use excessive force and shoot blacks disproportionately, statistics say otherwise.

The former police officer and co-founder of the BLEXIT movement Brandon Tatum said one need not be a conspiracy theorist to understand this. Statistics show that twice as many unarmed whites are shot by the police each year than unarmed blacks.

In 2018, the most recent year for which data on this is available, blacks made up 53 percent of homicide offenders in the United States and committed about 60 percent of robberies, while only making up 13 percent of the population.

Meanwhile, the Biden administration is trying to pass sweeping police reform legislation, the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2021, which passed the House in March. But the legislation has since been embroiled in negotiations led by Rep. Karen Bass(D-Calif.), Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), and Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.)

The proposed laws would ban police tactics such as chokeholds and no-knock warrants, lower the legal standard required to convict an officer for misconduct, establish guidelines for police departments nationwide, and create national standards for policing in a bid to bolster accountability.

It would also prohibit qualified immunity, the powerful legal doctrine that shields law enforcement and other public officials from liability in civil lawsuits.

However, qualified immunity has reportedly been a sticking point during prolonged negotiations with Republicans opposing calls from Democrats to alter or revoke it from the act after numerous members of law enforcement have warned they expect more police to walk off the job if the bill passes.

GOP lawmakers have argued that qualified immunity is necessary and that any effort to remove it would further complicate police work and hurt recruiting efforts.

The trio of lawmakers said on June 24 that they had reached a preliminary bipartisan agreement on the police reform bill.

Katabella Roberts contributed to this report.
Biden Administration Pushes Social Media Companies to Combat COVID-19 Misinformation

The surgeon general of the United States is calling on Big Tech to crack down on so-called COVID-19 misinformation, in a report released on the same day the White House acknowledged that its flagging posts for Facebook.

Surgeon General Vivek Murthy told reporters in Washington that he targeted social media misinformation with his first advisory because it poses an imminent and insidious threat to our nations health.

In the advisory (pdf), Murthys office says technology platforms can redesign recommendation algorithms to avoid amplifying misinformation, hire more people to police content, and boost messaging from trusted messengers and subject matter experts.

Misinformation is defined by health officials as information that is false, inaccurate, or misleading, according to the best available evidence.

Officials worry that misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines and other COVID-19 topics are undercutting the U.S. response to the pandemic and preventing some Americans from getting a vaccine.

As Surgeon General, my job is to help people stay safe and healthy, and without limiting the spread of health misinformation, American lives are at risk. From the tech and social media companies who must do more to address the spread on their platforms, to all of us identifying and avoiding sharing misinformation, tackling this challenge will require an all-of-society approach, but it is critical for the long-term health of our nation, Murthy said in a statement.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters at the White House that the Biden administration is working on flagging problematic posts for Facebook that spread disinformation.

Administration officials have also directly communicated proposals to social media platforms, including Facebook.

Psaki later claimed that a dozen people are producing some 65 percent of anti-vaccine misinformation on social media platforms, before calling on Facebook specifically to more quickly remove harmful, violative posts.

Facebook, Twitter, and Google didnt immediately reply to requests for comment.

Critics quickly decried the effort, focusing on the White Houses contact with big tech companies.

This is uncharted territory. They now are openly admitting they collaborate with Big Tech, said Amy Tarkanian, a former Nevada Republican Party chairwoman.

Clay Travis, co-founder of Outkick, said: Should be terrifying to anyone who values free speech. Big tech companies are now default state actors.
Associate Justice Stephen Breyer sits during a group photograph of the justices at the Supreme Court in Washington on April 23, 2021. (Erin Schaff-Pool/Getty Images)

Breyer, Top Liberal Supreme Court Justice, Hasnt Decided on Retirement

The oldest Supreme Court justice says he has not decided when he will retire amid a push by Democrats to get him to step down.

Justice Stephen Breyer, a Clinton nominee, is and one of three justices nominated by a Democrat president.

The 82-year-old has faced a growing push by congressional Democrats and left-leaning groups to resign during President Joe Bidens first term so Biden can nominate his replacement.

Fears that Republicans could flip the Senate in 2022 have added urgency to the effort, but Breyer said in a new interview that hes not sure when he will leave the bench.

No, Breyer told CNN when asked if he had decided when he will retire.

Two factors will influence the decision.

Primarily, of course, health, said Breyer. Second, the court.

Breyer also talked about the position he found himself in after the death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg last yearthe most senior liberal-nominated justice.

Breyer typically speaks third during deliberations on cases, after Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Clarence Thomas. That elevated rank has made a difference to me, Breyer said.

You have to figure out what youre going to say in conference to a greater extent, to get it across simply, Breyer said. You have to be flexible, hear other people, and be prepared to modify your views. But that doesnt mean [going in with] a blank mind.

People pay respects as Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg lies in repose in front of the Supreme Court in Washington on Sept. 23, 2020. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images)

Ginsburg refused to retire during President Barack Obamas two terms. After she died, President Donald Trump nominated Amy Coney Barrett, who was quickly confirmed by the GOP-controlled Senate.

Democrats worry a similar scenario could play out with the seat Breyer holds if he does not step down soon.

Justice Anthony Kennedy stepped down during Trumps term, enabling the president at the time to nominate his replacement. The GOP-controlled Senate confirmed Brett Kavanaugh in a narrow vote.

Last week, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) told colleagues that Senate Democrats stand ready to expeditiously fill any potential vacancies on the Supreme Court should they arise.

Though Schumer did not mention Breyer by name, plenty of Democrats have.

Justice Breyer, its time to put the Courts long-term membership ahead of your long and distinguished career, Rep. Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.) wrote on Twitter last month.

Demand Justice, a left-wing group run by former Hillary Clinton campaign aide Brian Fallon, recently ran an advertisement that called on Breyer to retire.

Breyer is a remarkable jurist, but with future control of a closely divided Senate uncertain, it is best for the country that President Biden have the opportunity to nominate a successor without delay, the ad said.

Breyer in a recent speech at Harvard Law School said that he believes judges should be loyal to the rule of law, not to the political party that helped to secure their appointment.
Puzzle with printed EU and UK flags is seen in this illustration taken Nov. 13, 2019. (Dado Ruvic/Illustration/Reuters)

Britain, EU Must Use Caution in New Online Rules: UN

GENEVABritain and other countries drawing up legislation to regulate online contentincluding racist abusemust avoid overly broad definitions and over-reliance on algorithms that might curb free speech, United Nations officials warned on Wednesday.

Some 40 new laws on social media have been adopted worldwide in the last two years, including Vietnams 2019 cybersecurity law, in which the experts said had been used to delete posts and arrest those voicing critical opinions.

Virtually every country that has adopted laws relating to online content has jeopardized human rights in doing so, Peggy Hicks, a senior official at the UN human rights office, told a news briefing.

This happens both because governments respond to public pressure by rushing in with simple solutions for complex problems; and because some governments see this legislation as a way to limit speech they dislike and even silence civil society or other critics, she said.

Hicks, asked to elaborate on Britains proposed legislation, said: I think first we need to be clear that you cant wave a magic wand and make racism on the Internet disappear.  The reality is that what we see online is mirroring what people face day-to-day offline.

She added: To block racist speech through algorithmthe type of speech that weve seen in this casefor some of it at least you would need a really sweeping approach that undoubtedly would block more speech than what wed want to see blocked.

The European Union (EU) last December proposed the Digital Services Act, which requires tech giants to do more to tackle illegal content such as hate speech and child sexual abuse material.

The choices made in that legislation could have ripple effects worldwide, UN human rights officer Marcelo Daher said, citing positive elements including its transparency requirements.

Yet some contradictory signals remain including the risk that over-broad liability will be imposed on companies for user-generated content, and that there will be limited judicial oversight, he said.

By Stephanie Nebehay
A woman on a mobility scooter drives past a mural praising the NHS, in London on March 5, 2021. (Toby Melville/Reuters)

Britain Fines Drug Firms After Steroid Price for NHS Rises Over 10,000 Percent

Britains competition regulator has fined more than 10 drug firms a record combined 260 million ($360 million) for overcharging the National Health Service (NHS) for a steroid that rose from 70 pence to 88 a pack in under eight years.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said on Thursday that the breaches meant the NHS paid over 10,000 percent more for single packs of 10 mg and 20 mg hydrocortisone tablets in 2016 than they were paying in 2008.

Hydrocortisone is used to treat conditions where adrenal glands do not make sufficient hormones, including the life-threatening Addisons disease.

The CMA said companies including Actavis, and its former parent and now Abbvie-owned Allergan, broke competition rules.

The companies engaged in practices including buying potential rivals to keep their versions off the market, increasing the price of hydrocortisone as sole providers, and continued to pay off the competition over the years, the CMA said.

These are without doubt some of the most serious abuses we have uncovered in recent years, said CMA head Andrea Coscelli. Our fine serves as a warning to any other drug firm planning to exploit the NHS.

Three of the more than 10 companies named in CMAs statement, Waymade, Accord, and Advanz, said they disagreed with the regulators decision and told Reuters via email that they would appeal against the fine.

CMA has fined Actavis UK, Auden Mckenzie, Allergan, Accord Healthcare, Intas, Waymade Plc, Amdipharm, Advanz Pharma, and some entities of private-equity group Cinven. Auden and Actavis UK together will pay 221.1 million ($306 million).

The other firms did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

CMA also said that in addition to its fines, the NHS would be able to seek damages.

Before April 2008, the NHS was spending about 500,000 ($692,000) annually on hydrocortisone tablets, the CMA said, adding that costs had risen to more than 80 million ($110 million) by 2016.

By Pushkala Aripaka and Yadarisa Shabong
Former President George W. Bush speaks during the Celebrating America Primetime Special on Jan. 20, 2021. (Handout/Biden Inaugural Committee via Getty Images)

Bush Warns of Consequences as US Withdraws From Afghanistan

Former President George W. Bush believes there will be consequences for the United States pulling out of Afghanistan.

Bush, a Republican who was responsible for the 2001 invasion of the Middle Eastern country, told Deutsche Welle that withdrawing is a mistake.

Because I think the consequences are going to be unbelievably bad and sad, he said.

The vacuum left by the withdrawal of both United States and North Atlantic Treaty Organization troops, which is almost complete, enables the Taliban, which follow Islam, an opportunity to gain more power, putting women and children in danger, according to Bush.

Im afraid Afghan women and girls are going to suffer unspeakable harm, he said. Theyre just going to be left behind to be slaughtered by these very brutal people, and it breaks my heart.

Bush authorized the invasion of Afghanistan while in office shortly after terrorists attacked America on Sept. 11, 2001, ramming planes into the Twin Towers in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington.

Former President Donald Trump, a Republican, initiated the U.S. withdrawal and it has continued under President Joe Biden.

The withdrawal process is more than 90 percent complete, U.S. Central Command said last week.

US military personnel stand during an official handover ceremony at the Resolute Support headquarters in the Green Zone in Kabul on July 12, 2021. (PWakil Kohsar/AFP via Getty Images)

Biden, a Democrat in his first term, said on July 8 that the drawdown will be complete by September.

No lives have been lost so far during the withdrawal because of careful management, he said in remarks made from Washington.

The United States did what we went to do in Afghanistan: to get the terrorists who attacked us on 9/11 and to deliver justice to Osama Bin Laden, and to degrade the terrorist threat to keep Afghanistan from becoming a base from which attacks could be continued against the United States. We achieved those objectives. Thats why we went, he said.

We did not go to Afghanistan to nation-build. And its the right and the responsibility of the Afghan people alone to decide their future and how they want to run their country.

Trump offered a similar rationale, telling reporters last year that were really not acting as soldiers; were acting as police. But the military is meant to be a fighting force, he added.
California District Sued Over Dropping Catholic Saints Name From School

The San Diego Unified School District is being sued by parents who say cancel culture is to blame for dropping the name of a Roman Catholic saint who figured prominently in Californias history from a high schools name.

The school at issue is Junipero Serra High School. Officials recently voted to rename the school, which was founded in 1976, as Canyon Hills High.

The lawsuit, known as Cox v. Renfree, was initiated July 14 at a San Diego office of the Superior Court of California by the Thomas More Society, a national public interest law firm specializing in religious freedom issues.

The schools alumni families and residents of the surrounding community, which is known as Tierrasanta, who call themselves Preserve Serra High, object to what they characterize as the school districts unlawful action in renaming the publicly funded high school without allowing input from local resident taxpayers.

St. Junipero Serra was canonized in 2015. The Spanish Franciscan priest, whose missionary work among the indigenous peoples earned him the title Apostle of California, died in Carmel, California, in 1784. He performed missionary work in Mexico and then in California when it was a Spanish possession. From 1769 to 1782, Serra founded nine missions in what was later to become the U.S. state of California.

Critics say that these missions helped strengthen Spanish colonial rule, which they argue led to the exploitation and mistreatment of Native Indians, and this they say makes Serra a villain by implication, or a scapegoat in the eyes of his supporters. Last year, rioters pulled down and defaced statues of Serra in California in the wave of leftist-organized violence that followed the May 25, 2020, death of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis.

This is another example of the cancel culture mentality that radical leftist people in education are trying to force on an unwilling American public, attorney Charles LiMandri, partner at LiMandri & Jonna and Thomas More Society Special Counsel, said in a statement.

Father Serra was a great defender of the indigenous people of California, and he deserves our best efforts to defend his legacy.

Junipero Serra High School in San Mateo, Calif., on April 11, 2017. (Worldbruce via Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0)

Junipero Serra High School Principal Erica Renfree, the school district, and about 70 other individuals are accused in the lawsuit of violating the state and U.S. constitutions. Renfree asked student activists to not only remove the Conquistador as their mascot, but also erase Serras name and memory from the school premises, according to the law firm.

Renfree said she was motivated, as reported in the lawsuit, by her observation that, Junipero Serra statues are being torn down all across the state.

Renfrees actions have pandered to a false and historically inaccurate narrative and have demonstrated an unconstitutional animus towards this Catholic saint, Paul Jonna, who is also a partner at LiMandri & Jonna and Thomas More Society special counsel, said in a statement.

The Board of Educations vote on this name change was riggedand based on false and misleading statements as well as manipulated data. The government officials conveniently changed the renaming rules in the middle of the pandemic, in order to effectuate their agenda, and left the entire community of Tierrasanta out of the process, Jonna said.

The lawsuit alleged that, in effect, Dr. Renfree sought to enlist her students to join a lynch mob of erasure and anti-Catholic bigotry and detailed how Renfree implored readers of her blog to educate themselves by reading a misleading historical primer, penned by a high school student.

In an interview with The Epoch Times, Jonna said in early 2021, in the midst of the pandemic, officials just completely changed the process for naming schools. As part of this new process, the school district held a vote on the name change during a virtual hearing held via Zoom, and no one in the community knew this vote was going to take place.

During the process, there was clear animus towards the Christian faith, Jonna said.

Serra, he said, is considered a founding father of California, and its clear if you look at the overwhelming weight of the historical record, he protected the indigenous people from slavery and exploitation.

Serra saw them as children of God, and records show that he repeatedly pressed the authorities for better treatment of the native people and he cared for their immortal souls.

He baptized thousands of them, washed their feet, and learned their native languages. So he was a great defender of the indigenous peoples.

San Diego Unified School District officials didnt immediately respond to a request by The Epoch Times for comment.
Former Vice President Mike Pence speaks to a crowd during an event sponsored by the Palmetto Family organization in Columbia, South Carolina, on April 29, 2021. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)

China Senses Weakness: Pence Urges Biden to Take Tougher Stance on CCP

Former Vice President Mike Pence in a foreign policy speech on Wednesday called on the Biden administration to toughen its stance on China, saying that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) senses weakness in the new administration.

Speaking at the Heritage Foundation headquarters in Washington, D.C., Pence urged that President Joe Biden delist Chinese firms that fail meet U.S. accounting standards, end all public and private funding of scientific research in China, and demand transparency from Beijing on the origins of the CCP virus, among other actions to address Chinas abuses of the international rules-based order.

Millions of Americans are awake to the fact that the Chinese Communist Party aspires not merely to join the community of economically developed nations, but to sit atop a new global order created in its own image, the former vice president said. A world in which freedom is constrained, but Beijings power is not.

Biden must take a harder line amid the emerging cold war with China, Pence said of the threat posed by the CCP.

Our elected leaders must build on the progress of the Trump-Pence administration, and use the economic and military power of the United States to check the ambitions of the Chinese Communist Party in ways that put the American people and American values first, he continued. Only a proud, confident and united America can meet the challenge of China.

His remarks come as the theory that the virus was the result of a leak from the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) has gained wider coverage as a likely possibility in the legacy media as a growing number of scientists and officials discuss the evidence supporting the hypothesis.

COVID-19, the disease caused by the CCP virus, was first reported in the Chinese city of Wuhan.

President Joe Biden on May 26 ordered the intelligence community to produce a report in 90 days on the origins of the virus, saying that intelligence agencies are looking at different theories, including the possibility of a laboratory accident in China.

Among other demands, Pence called on the Biden administration to ban Beijing-backed Confucius Institutes on American college campuses, and to demand that the 2022 Olympics be moved from Beijing unless the CCP comes clean on the coronavirus and ends its persecution of Uyghurs.

The former vice presidents remarks come just weeks after a survey conducted by the U.S.-based Pew Research Center found that negative views of China among the worlds most advanced economies hover at near-record highs amid concerns about Beijings human rights record.

A Pew report released on June 30 detailing the results of the survey of 17 advanced economies in Europe, North America, and the Asia-Pacific region shows that a large majorityeight in 10 respondentshold unfavorable views of the Chinese regime and believe it does not respect the personal freedoms of its people.

Beijing is facing increasing scrutiny over its human rights abuses, including its suppression of religious and ethnic minorities and the implementation of its draconian national security law in Hong Kong in July 2020, which has criminalized any speech or political action seen as against the ruling regime as acts of subversion and secession with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

In Chinas northwestern region of Xinjiang, authorities have been accused of committing genocide against Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities, including the detention of at least 1 million people in secretive political reeducation camps.

Now more than ever, our leaders must get serious about the immediate and deadly threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party, James Carafano, Heritage vice president for national security and foreign policy, said in a statement following Pences speech.

Vice President Pence not only clearly articulated the threat we face, but numerous concrete policy steps the Biden administration and Congress can, and should, take in defense of American interests and values, he said.

We cannot afford to go back to business as usual on China. Its time to continue what the Trump administration started and secure our future against the Chinese Communist Partys global advances.

The Epoch Times has contacted the White House for comment.
Chinese Spy Ship Spotted Near Allied War Games

Several Chinese engineers were killed in a bus explosion in Pakistan. Before the accident, they had been working for Beijings Belt and Road Initiative.

Eleven countries are carrying out a joint military exercise in Australian waters. Nearby, a Chinese spy ship has been spotted.

The United States strengthens measures to counter Chinese telecom companies. A nearly $2 billion program is on the way to reimburse American companies for removing Chinese equipment, including that from Huawei.

In the first half of this year alone, 67 Falun Gong practitioners have died because of the Chinese regimes persecution. Nearly 10,000 more were detained or harassed by Chinese police.

An eyewitness says the Chinese regime made a sophisticated industry of state-sanctioned organ harvesting, as Beijing, for years, has flip-flopped on whether it takes and sells organs from executed prisoners.

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Daniela Dascalu, once severely depressed, says the spiritual practice of Falun Gong and its five meditative exercises helped her recover and reclaim her peaceful life. (Minghui.org)

Chronically Depressed Woman Finds Healing in Persecuted Meditation System

Why am I suffering so much? Why is life like this? Why does my family treat me badly? Why are some people so bad? Why do I live here?

These were the many questions that a chronically depressed Romanian woman was struggling to seek the answers to. Reclaiming her mental health was getting seemingly impossible with each passing day.

It wasnt until she came across the self-improvement cultivation system of Falun Gong, which is being violently persecuted in communist China, that she felt empowered from deep within to pull herself out of the endless destructive thoughts to eventually recover from her severe depression.

Much-acclaimed for its profound spiritual and physical health benefits, Falun Gong (also known as Falun Dafa) is rooted in the universal tenets of Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance. The self-cultivation systemcurrently practiced by over 100 million people worldwidecomprises five gentle exercises, including a sitting meditation, and focuses on the development of ones moral character and an upbeat state of mind.

Daniela Dascalu suffered from chronic depression for years after a family conflict and the passing away of her mother. (Courtesy of Daniela Dascalu)

Life Reclaimed

Talking to the Chinese edition of The Epoch Times, Daniela Dascalu said she migrated from Romania to Germany more than two decades ago before settling down with her husband in Munich. She ended up in depression after her husband left, and in 2016, her illness only worsened with the passing of her mother. She was in despair and heartbroken.

At that time, Dascalu had already qualified for the home economics (Hauswirtschaft) test and was about to look for jobs. However, due to her deteriorating mental health, she stopped searching for jobs, paying attention to personal hygiene, or socializing. To work on her depression, she reached out to a mental health clinic, but she was simply afraid of stepping out of her home to see the doctor or collect her medicines.

Dascalus life was marred with a negative mindset and feelings of shame and low self-esteem, which led her toward anxiety-induced overeating. She was desperately looking for a safe refuge from her progressive depression.

It was during this period that Dascalu experienced a major turning point in life.

Falun Gong practitioners with the model of the book Zhuan Falun in the Easter Parade in Bendigo city, Australia, on March 27, 2016. (Minghui.org)

In November 2016, she learned that her good friend would be attending a Falun Gong conference in Munich. Warmhearted by nature, Dascalu decided to assist her friend by hosting seven of the Romanian Falun Gong practitioners at her home for a few days.

Dascalu said that though her guests left after the conference ended, they left behind something preciouspositive energy. Since she had some free time, she decided to read Falun Gongs main spiritual text, Zhuan Falun.

She said that, prior to hosting the guests, she already knew about Falun Gong from that same friend, who had also given her the Romanian version of the book at the beginning of 2016, and that, although she had trouble comprehending the full content, as she didnt know many of the Romanian words, she knew that the practice was different. She said she had experienced a field of very strong energy around her while reading the book.

However, Dascalu stopped reading midway, after hearing misleading information about the practice from one of her relatives who had been deceived by the Chinese Communist Partys (CCP) purposeful fabrications and state-run propaganda that demonized the peaceful practice.

Ironically, Falun Gongwhich is based on traditional Chinese culture and was introduced to the public in 1992had gained huge popularity in China due to its health benefits and moral principles, and had been recognized as the most-awarded qigong practice before the officially atheist CCP launched a violent campaign to persecute it in 1999, fearing the peaceful practices spiritual grounding as a threat to its communist-Marxist ideology of struggle and hate.

Since then, tens of thousands of adherents have been unlawfully arrested and persecuted in China, with many of them even tortured to deathmaking it one of the biggest spiritual persecutions of this century.

Unaware of the facts, Dascalu said, she was naturally afraid and thus wanted to understand the situation better before continuing. But for various reasons, she never had the chance to learn more about the beauty of the practice until she hosted the Romanian practitioners at her home.

This time, Dascalu decided to switch to reading the German edition and ordered a copy through a bookstore. She received it the next day, and for the next three weeks, she read it and finally understood the content.

Ive understood it this time, Ive understood everything, she said, adding that she even cried, feeling grateful, because the book explained many things in simple terms for which she had been seeking answers.

Dascalu said she finally found the answers to all her questions in the life-changing book. She discovered that her depression and fear were gone, and she had started taking good care of herself and even began searching for jobs again.

She joyfully wrote an email to her doctor sharing her experience and that shed found a cure for depression.

Daniela Dascalu, once severely depressed, says the spiritual practice of Falun Gong and its five meditative exercises helped her recover and reclaim her peaceful life. (Minghui.org)

Paying It Forward

Having reclaimed her peace of mind and calm, Dascalu realized there were many inspiring things that she had wanted to do but all those were simply buried under the suffocating depressive thoughts; she had just forgotten them all, she said.

The book awakened my wish to be a better person, she said, adding that she has always wanted to be a better mom, a better wife, a better neighbor, and a better colleague. She always wanted to be a good role model.

It was finally a wish that came true for her, she said.

I became more considerate of others. I am kind, understanding, and calm, she told Minghui.org. I directly and indirectly [positively] change the people around me.

Dascalu said even her children have embraced Falun Dafas principles of truthfulness, compassion and forbearance. It is very important that we act as role models for our children, as they are the future, she told Minghui.org.

With her newfound confidence and upbeat take on life, Dascalu eventually managed to find a job.

In her own little way, to express her gratitude toward the practice and what its done for her, and to make a difference in her community, Dascalu said, she now volunteers to organize activities to raise awareness about the ongoing persecution of Falun Gong and human rights violations happening in China.

Photo of the event organized by Daniela Dascula outside the Chinese Consulate in Munich in April 2019 to raise awareness of the ongoing persecution of Falun Gong. (Minghui.org)

I have learned so much from Falun Gong and received so much support, which is something that I didnt expect, she told the Chinese edition of The Epoch Times. I hope to do something that I can do to raise awareness.

It is to support the beauty of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance and to support the value of freedom.

Dascalu hopes that more people will get to know about the persecution and the evil nature of the CCP.

Chinese Epoch Times staff Zhu Lan contributed to this report.
Community members protest the city of Orange's decision to shut down Mary's Kitchen, a soup kitchen for the homeless, in Orange, Calif., on July 13, 2021. (Chris Karr/The Epoch Times)

Community Members Strongly Oppose Oranges Attempt to Close Marys Kitchen

The city of Oranges decision last month to shut down Marys Kitchen, a volunteer organization that has cared for the homeless for decades, has met with adamant pushback from the community.

A group of peopleincluding pastors, attorneys, homeless advocates, volunteers, residents, and formerly homeless individualsvoiced their opposition during a recent Orange City Council meeting.

When my grandmother started the kitchen in 1984, she was shocked by the sheer amount of poverty that she was seeing in her community, Peggy McAnena Carrillo said during public comments on July 13. The power of Marys Kitchen goes beyond the incredible cooking. Its a place for [people] to find basic human needs.

Mary McAnena, 82, founded Marys Kitchen after helping a homeless woman in Hart Park in Orange, California. The soup kitchen now provides breakfast and lunch, as well as showers and laundry facilities, for around 200 homeless individuals a day, according to the organization.

The soup kitchen was founded on Christian principles, including compassion and respect for human dignity, its website states.

As the city of Orange looks to upend Marys Kitchen  no one in the city seems to have a good answer for whats next. Where will they get their next meal? Carrillo said. Its a shameful reflection on our community that the city councils been utterly devoid of humanity, in this case.

Prior to the meeting, a number of people gathered in front of city hall, holding up signs that read, Save Marys Kitchen, Let Us Feed the Homeless, Let Them Stay, and Got Compassion?

I pray that Marys Kitchen survives, Heidi Zimmermann, founder of Anaheim-based nonprofit Omas Angel Foundation, told The Epoch Times. Its not about the land on which we serve people. Its about humans helping other humans who are desperately in need.

Community members protest the city of Oranges decision to shut down Marys Kitchen, a soup kitchen for the homeless, in Orange, Calif., on July 13, 2021. (Chris Karr/The Epoch Times)

An Eviction Contested

In a notice dated June 18, City Manager Rick Otto announced Oranges decision to end the citys agreement with the volunteer-run organization.

While Marys Kitchen should be commended for their sincere passion for helping others, [the operation] only serves to enable homelessness and can no longer be supported by the city, the letter said.

While the notice asserts that Section 15 of their License Agreement requires 30 days notice, the city said they would allow 90 days to vacate the property.

Its just really unclear who is driving this decision and why, Brooke Weitzman, directing attorney at Elder Law and Disability Rights Center told The Epoch Times. It seems strange that that type of action would be taken without any public meeting of any sort [and] that the city council wouldnt be a part of that decision. It hasnt been agendized.

Weitzman has been retained by Marys Kitchen CEO Gloria Suess to represent them in the matter. Weitzman argues that the notice is improper, invalid, and possibly a violation of state law.

In a letter to Otto dated July 9, Weitzman claims the citys actions indicate a disregard for discriminatory impact, their state obligations as defined by the California Environmental Quality Act, the lease agreement, and Oranges Housing Element.

The City attempts to do this in the dark of night [without] even holding a single public meeting, the letter states. Marys Kitchen cannot and will not be scapegoated and made to bear the weight of the Citys failures.

Otto didnt immediately respond to The Epoch Times request for comment.

City council members Jon Dumitru and Kathy Tavoularis declined to comment on the matter to The Epoch Times due to the possibility of litigation.

Community members protest the city of Oranges decision to shut down Marys Kitchen, a soup kitchen for the homeless, in Orange, Calif., on July 13, 2021. (Chris Karr/The Epoch Times)

Marys Kitchen gave me a reason to live

Out of the two dozen people who spoke out on behalf of Marys Kitchen at the July 13 meeting, Michael Sawyer had one of the most compelling stories.

As he compulsively tossed a water bottle from one hand to the other, Sawyer explained how he had fallen on hard times, experienced a nervous breakdown, and wound up in jail. He also suffers from bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Ive tried to commit suicide more times than Ive got fingers and toes, he told the city council.

During a month and a half stretch of being homeless, Sawyer said he first went to Marys Kitchen looking for drugs, but instead, I found God.

Marys Kitchen gave me a reason to live, he said. Youre closing it down, and I dont know why. It doesnt make sense. You put the people on the street [when] theyre finally getting help, he said, shuffling away from the microphone just as his three-minute window expired.

Bert Steensma described himself as another one of those criminal guys whose life was saved by Gloria Suess at Marys Kitchen.

[I] came out of Chino [Institute for Men] in 2017 [and] had nothingnothing at all, he said. Gloria is one of the most precious people I think Ive ever met.

Gloria is always there working. And you can tell shes exhausted sometimes, but shes always kind. If somebody has a need, shell go and take care of it even though shes tired. And I think the greatest thing though, is their example. People that come out of prison need that example. I needed it.

Weitzman would like to see the city drop its eviction notice and partner with the organization.

They are a critical resource and they absolutely save lives, she said. They give people dignity, but they dont have access to get people out of homelessness on their own because they dont have access to referring to a shelter. The city of Orange doesnt even have a shelter.

Though Weitzman hasnt yet heard back from city officials, she said she remains hopeful that shell get a response soon.

Its very reasonable that they want to take a few days to read the letter [and] decide if they agree or disagree with the things Ive said, she said.
Core Constitutional Rights Under Threat From Quasi-Totalitarian Movement: Constitutional Scholar

Rob Natelson, a Senior Fellow in Constitutional Jurisprudence at the Independence Institute in Denver, warned of a quasi-totalitarian movement that is threatening the core rights enshrined in the Constitution, from the right to be locally governed to freedom of fair and honest elections.

A leading constitutional scholar whose work has been repeatedly cited in the U.S. Supreme Court cases, Natelson told The Epoch Times that the U.S. Constitution created a federal system in which people could govern themselves in their own states and their own families. As the federal government became increasingly centralized, however, Americans have lost control of their ability to govern themselves.

In a federal system, if someone is unhappy with a policy of his state, he can move to another state. But if the government is unitary, then its the same everywhere, and that reduces human freedom, he said, noting that the recently defeated election bill H.R.1, also known as the For The People Act, would have threatened the states freedom to self-govern.

The U.S. Constitution allows states to govern their state and local elections. It also allows the state legislature to supervise presidential elections as it wishes. It also allows state legislatures to write collection law for members for congressional races, Natelson explained. H.R. 1 was trying to nationalize most aspects of national elections. Some of the law is constitutionalalthough ill-advised. But much of it is unconstitutional.

Speaking of elections, the former law professor said the Americans freedom to fair and honest elections has, at least, come under a cloud because of irregularities during last years elections, including last-minute changes to voting laws that made large-scale mail-in voting possible.

Im not one who thinks necessarily that the result was changed, but there were certainly inexcusable actions, he said.

Old-school liberals, according to Natelson, would agree with conservatives on the importance of fair elections and civil freedom. The leftists dominating the Democratic Party and many government offices in recent years, however, are a very different breed with a totalitarian mindset and little or no regard to civil liberties.

For many years, many liberals who didnt really care about the right to be governed locally, and they didnt really care about economic freedom, did care about civil liberties, or the right to free speech, the right to religion, Natelson said. But hose people seem to have disappeared, and we now have a quasi-totalitarian movement in this country, which is threatening our civil liberties.

People used to at least feel secure about their right to free speech or the right to religion, or their right to due process of law. And thats not true anymore, he continued, adding that some individuals charged in connection to the Jan. 6 breach of the U.S. Capital still remain in custody and havent been tried. I think that would have been unthinkable just a few years ago.

The author of the commentary series Defending the Constitution, Natelson has been persistently using his expertise to debunk and clarify myths and misconceptions about the Constitution and its framers. He will be featured as a speaker at a panel discussion held by The Epoch Times, and his topic will be Why the Constitution is Worth Defending.

Panel discussion: Defending the Constitution: Why It Matters Now More Than Ever

Date: Monday, July 19, 2021

Time: 6:00pm-8:00pm

For more information about the panel discussion, please visit http://www.epochevents.us.
Passengers wear face masks to protect against the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) after arriving at the LAX airport in Los Angeles on March 5, 2020. (MARK RALSTON/AFP via Getty Images)

LA County Issues Mandate Requiring Masks Indoors, Regardless of Vaccination Status

LOS ANGELESIn the face of steadily increasing COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations, Los Angeles County residents will again be required to wear masks in indoor settings beginning July 17, health officials announced.

County Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis said on July 15 that the county is not where we need to be in terms of getting the population vaccinated against the virus, as evidenced by seven straight days of new cases numbers that topped 1,000.

On July 15, the county reported 1,537 new infections, the highest number since early March.

Davis said the rate of virus spread in the county has officially risen from moderate to substantial, with infections reported to be five times more likely to occur among unvaccinated residents. The current seven-day average rate of daily new cases in the county is now at 7.1 cases per 100,000 residents.

People wear masks as they walk in a shopping district in the Hollywood section of Los Angeles on July 1, 2021. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

As a result, Davis said a revised county Health Officer Order will take effect at 11:59 p.m. July 17, requiring people to wear masks in indoor settings, regardless of vaccination status. The county previously only recommended such mask-wearing in an effort to slow the spread of the virus and protect unvaccinated residents.

Davis said that given the rising spread of the virus, waiting to do something would be too late.

Asked if the county might consider reimplementing other health restrictionssuch as capacity limits and physical distancing, Davis said, Everything is on the table if things continue to get worse.

He said that for now, mask-wearing is the easiest thing for people to do to help limit the spread of the virus.

The mandate means customers will again be required to mask up when entering any indoor public establishment, including retail shops, grocery stores, restaurants, and workplaces. Davis said indoor dining will remain open, but customers will have to remain masked while theyre not eating or drinking.

The new cases reported by the county on July 15 lifted the cumulative total reported throughout the pandemic to 1,262,578. The county reported three more COVID-19 deaths, lifting the overall death toll to 24,566.

The number of people hospitalized in Los Angeles County due to the virus jumped to 452 on July 15, according to state figures, up from 406 on Wednesday, with 96 people in intensive care. The number of people hospitalized has been climbing steadily for the past three weeks, and is now double the number reported when COVID health restrictions were lifted statewide on June 15.

The rolling-average rate of people testing positive for the virus also continued to climb, reaching 3.75 percent on July 15, up from 3.7 percent July 14 and well above the 0.3 percent rate of a month ago.

The increase in infections and hospitalizations is widely blamed on the highly infectious Delta variant of the virus. The variant was first detected in India, where widespread infections were reported. The variant is also credited for significant outbreaks in the United Kingdom and other parts of the world.

Delta has been the most commonly detected variant in Los Angeles County for several weeks.

Davis insisted again that COVID vaccines provide strong protection against the virus and the Delta variant, but unvaccinated residents are at significantly higher risk.

There are still nearly four million county residents who are unvaccinated.

Currently, 69 percent of county residents aged 16 and older have received at least one dose of the vaccine, and 61 percent are fully vaccinated. Among those aged 65 and older, 88 percent have received at least one dose, and 78 percent are fully vaccinated.

Black residents continue to have the lowest rate of vaccinations in the county. As of July 11, 45 percent of black residents in the county have received at least one dose, compared to 55 percent among Latinos, 66 percent of white residents, and 76 percent of Asian residents.

While conceding that people who are vaccinated can still become infected, they are reportedly far less likely to become severely ill or die. As of July 15, among the nearly 4.8 million fully vaccinated residents, 4,122 have subsequently tested positive for the virus, a rate of 0.09 percent, while 213 fully vaccinated residents have been hospitalized, for a rate of 0.0045 percent, and 26 have died, a rate of 0.0005 percent.

In hopes of encouraging more people to get vaccinated, the county is continuing to offer incentives. Beginning July 16 and continuing through July 22, anyone who gets vaccinated at sites operated by the county, the city of Los Angeles, or St. Johns Well Child and Family Center will be entered for a chance to win one of seven concert ticket packages, with tickets to see the Harlem Globetrotters, Disney on Ice, and the Gold Over America Tour with Simone Biles at Staples Center.
A police officer stands amid smoke and debris as buildings continue to burn in the aftermath of a night of protests and violence following the death of George Floyd, in Minneapolis, Minn., on May 29, 2020. (Charlotte Cuthbertson/The Epoch Times)

Crime Rises and so Narratives Are Built and Explanations Multiply

Commentary

How can Jennifer Psaki and her Democratic acolytes in the media whose pre-determined narrative she spoon-feeds every day get away with such a shameless lie as that it was really the Republicans who wanted to defund the police?

Thats a question absolutely nobody is asking. Everybody knows that there is no longer any room in the media for a real voice of dissent from the Democrats revolutionary project, which depends on blaming Republicans and/or Donald Trump for everything thats wrong with America.

Of course if you really wanted to hear a different point of view you could go to the right-wing media ghetto that the Democrat media never reads or even acknowledges to exist, apart from their bete noire of Fox News, which they endlessly ridicule and call purveyors of misinformation.

But theyre also lying to themselves, and that is always a ticket to disaster.

Some Democrat apologists have lately seemed to realize this and to retain just enough of a tether to political reality to have put their explanatory journalism into gear to account for the rise in violent crime which they previously preferred simply to ignore.

The one thing that these explanations nearly all have in common with Psakis, however, is that they exclude or discount the overwhelmingly obvious explanation for the epidemic of murder in our major citiesthat it is a direct result of last summers anti-police riots and what has been called the Minneapolis effect, which is an echo of the Ferguson effect of 2014, following the anti-police riots of that year.

Admittedly, Defund the Police was more of a slogan than a reality, though the police budgets in several major cities, including New York, were cut back. But the defunding, proposed or actual, was only a small part of the reason for the demoralization of the police in Minneapolis and other Democrat-run cities which saw large numbers of resignations and retirements of officers.

Could that have had anything to do with the increase in violent crime do you think?

Um, no. Not according to most of the explainers.

As a citizen I deplore such willful ignorance, which can only ensure that criminal behavior continues to increase. But as a long-time observer of the media, I find it fascinating to watch the spider-like media at work, weaving their webs of rationalization for phenomena which the rest of us find quite easily explainable without them.

This is what I mean by narrative-building.

At first, when the crime surge became apparent, it was ignored by the media and then, when it could be ignored no longer, the usual suspectsgunswere rounded up.

When that explanation swiftly began to seem in danger of its own over-familiarity, the spike was blamed on the pandemic. Its clearly related, in part, to the coronavirus and to the fact that people are cooped up, Mayor Bill de Blasio of New York said back in January. And its certainly related to the fact that the criminal justice system is on pause and thats causing a lot of problems.

That explanation fell foul of the fact that, although the pandemic had affected the whole world, only in the United States was there such an increase in the murder rate. And then, as the allegedly cooped up criminals began to be de-cooped in the months that followed, the murder rate showed no signs of declining.

By the time that Eric Adams won New Yorks Democratic primary election as the partys candidate to succeed Mayor de Blasio by waging an explicitly anti-crime, pro-police campaign, it must have seemed time to bring out the lefts big guns (if youll pardon the expression) of explanation.

Some of the rationalizations acknowledged a partial or tentative role for the Minneapolis effect.

We dont know why violent crime is up, wrote Aaron Chalfin and John MacDonald for The Washington Post on July 11.

But we know theres more than one cause. Simple explanations for the surge are too pat  whatever they are.

Though too pat, the simple explanation of a pullback from proactive policing was at least acknowledged as one of the possible causes of more violent crime.

Mostly, however, our explanatory journalists had recourse to the old left-wing favorite of root causes.

Americas left cant afford to be silent on crime, wrote Ben Davis in The Guardian on July 6.

Heres how to talk about it and win, he wrotethus confirming that, like others who have been firmly anti-police up until now, his purpose in talking about crime is to figure out not so much how to stop it as how to turn the issue into an election winner for his side.

The answer, given in the sub-head to his article, is root causes.

I presume that Ben Davis is a young man and so may be unaware that the old root causes chestnut has been around for a long time without ever coming close to being rooted up. Poverty and racism, the principal root causes in the lefts venerable narrative, have been around forever, and have usually been much worse than they are now.

They may, indeed, feel worse to some people, but as feelings they are not readily susceptible to measurement and therefore cannot be correlated with the ups and downs in the crime rate, which are.

The lack of such evidence is no problem, however, for the utopian mentality which cannot solve any problem without solving all problems.

Talking about crime can be a winning issue for the left, writes Mr. Davis, if it is explicitly part of an overall program of redistribution of wealth, investment in communities, and guaranteeing a society that provides safety and security for all of its members, not just those at the top. We must emphasize that people have a right to safety, and this is the only program that truly provides that.

This sounds less like a program to me than a vague aspiration, but we have his word for it that, once realized, it will fix not just crime but everything thats wrong. Just as we have Jen Psakis word for it that Republicans are the real defunders of the police.

I guess well find out in next years mid-terms whether or not the voters continue to believe them.

James Bowman is a resident scholar at the Ethics and Public Policy Center. The author of Honor: A History, Bowman is a movie critic for The American Spectator and the media critic for the New Criterion.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Cuban-Americans demonstrate in support of demonstrations taking place in Cuba, outside the White House on July 12, 2021. (Win McNamee/Getty Images)

Cuba, Iran, and the Shame of the United States

Commentary

If I hadnt left the Democratic Party years ago, I would leave it now.

Their namby-pamby, lip-service reaction to the uprising of the Cuban people against 62 years of brutal communist oppression is shameful beyond words.

Apparently, the protests are a bit inconvenient for them. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez might be embarrassed if they said or did anything, not to mention Sen. Bernie Sanders.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas warning Cuban refugees not to come (while the border is open to practically everybody else, from Houthis to extra-terrestrials) put the capper on it.

The Coast Guard has evidently already been alerted not to allow this freedom-loving riff-riff on our shores. After all, some of them might vote Republican.

Cuban-born himself, Mayorkass behavior is not that far from the Jewish kapos who kept order for the Nazis inside the concentration camps. What hes doneno doubt on orders from aboveis equally repellent.

But the Democrats clearly had and have more important fish to fry, such as prolonging the fiction that another freedom-oriented demonstration (Jan. 6), clumsy as it might have been, was a veritable insurrection. (The poor folks just somehow forgot to bring guns.)

Furthermore, Russia, China, and Iran have warned America not to meddle in Cuba or else.

Not to worry, Axis of Evil. Whatever rhetoric they may spout, our government isnt really against you.

In the midst of the Cuban demonstrations and on the very day that Mayorkas was giving his Comrade Gromyko-like nyet to refugees from communism, many of whom were being beaten in the streets or worse, our State Department was busy assuaging the mullahs.

From the Washington Free Beacon:

The State Department informed Congress late Tuesday that it would waive sanctions on Irans illicit oil trade so that the country can access frozen funds from South Korea and Japan, the same day the Department of Justice announced charges on an Iranian spy network that sought to kidnap an American.

The waiver, signed by Secretary of State Antony Blinken, allows the transfer of Iranian funds in restricted accounts to exporters in Japan and the Republic of Korea, according to a notification sent to Congress by the State Department. The waiver allows Iranian money that had been frozen as a result of American sanctions to be freed up without violating the law.

Now dont get too upset. The State Department didnt lift all the sanctions.  Yet. That would be bad news for American energy independence, whats left of it.

Of course, that could change as soon as the comandantes calm things down sufficiently in Havana in their time-tested manner. A turn to Iran is already in the offing anyway.

As Axios reported on July 14, Outgoing Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif wrote in a report to parliament that the Biden administration has agreed to lift almost all U.S. sanctions on Iran to secure a mutual return to the 2015 nuclear deal.

Beyond the sanctions, also to be lifted are the terror designation against the Revolutionary Guard Corps and personal sanctions on Supreme Leader Khamenei as well as more than 1,000 Iranian individuals.

More details are in the Axios story, including what the Iranians are supposed to give up for all this largesse, but one wonders if the new Iranian hardline regime under Ebrahim Raisi has any real interest in a deal in the first place.

And if they do sign a deal, do they intend to abide by it? They didnt before. Why should we expect them to now?

More importantly, why does Biden want this deal at all? The whole thing seems like some kind of charade, marking time for the globalist expansion.

In the end, the Iran deal seems all about the money. It certainly is for the Europeans. Theres no reason it shouldnt be so for the Democrats, essentially now a globalist party.

Poor little Cuba, and most specifically, the benighted Cuban people, are just a sidebar in this great gamean inconvenience, as I noted above.

I was listening today to Clay Travis and Buck Sextons compelling new radio show (replacing Rush Limbaugh) and the two men were speculating on what could be done to free Cuba if we had a decent, moral government that had the will. It wasnt easy, they pointed out, considering the recent failures of American adventures in Iraq and Afghanistan, the natural disinclination to use our military when our own country isnt being threatened directly.

But Iraq and Afghanistan are tribal cultures thousands of miles away. Cuba is 90 miles away, according to a famous sign in Key West, and is a Catholic country, whose people havent bought the full communist atheism anyway, in other words, a JudeoChristian culture like the United States.

In 1962, during the Cuban Missile Crisis, those 90 miles seemed painfully close. They could again. Its more or less like Taiwan and China. Do you think Xi Jinping is looking at how were behaving on this one? Hes already gobbled up Hong Kong. Sometimes you have to draw the line.

Regarding Cuba, we have this update from Summit News:

The Black Lives Matter organisation has issued a statement clearly aligning itself with the Marxist governments brutal oppression of the Cuban people throughout the country, prompting widespread backlash but little surprise given that BLM itself was founded by avid Marxists.

Rather than condemning the Cuban regime, the BLM statement blames the U.S. government under President Trump for inhumane treatment of the Cuban people.

In Latin, ut inter, or as might be expected.

Roger L. Simon is an award-winning novelist, Oscar-nominated screenwriter, co-founder of PJMedia, and now, editor-at-large for The Epoch Times. His most recent books are The GOAT (fiction) and I Know Best: How Moral Narcissism Is Destroying Our Republic, If It Hasnt Already (nonfiction). He can be found on Parler as @rogerlsimon

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Defying Teachers, Schools in Violent Chicago Neighborhoods Keep Police on Campus

CHICAGOFor the new school year beginning in the fall, more Chicago public high schools are opting to remove on-campus police officers, a movement that gained momentum citywide last summer after the death of George Floyd.

Among about 30 high schools that retain officers, eight out of 10 are in the most violent neighborhoods on the South Side and West Side of the city, and most of their student bodies are predominantly African American.

Often at the pleading of parents who live in these neighborhoods, the local school councils voted to keep one or two police officers on campus, overcoming strong and emotional opposition from teachers and activists, who argued that on-campus officers will traumatize black youths and that students will be better served if the money is spent on social programs instead.

At George Westinghouse College Prep, a public high school in the Garfield Park neighborhood on the West Side, a recent schoolwide survey shows that 90 percent of the participating parents think on-campus officers make their children physically safe and 80 percent of students think so as well.

But the attitudes shift drastically when it comes to the participating teachers and administrative staff, more than 50 percent of whom think an on-campus officer doesnt make them physically safe.

The school has about 1,200 students. About 700 people responded to the survey.

Garfield Park has been the third most violent neighborhood in Chicago this year, with 33 people killed and 128 injured, largely due to gunfire.

Melina Lesus, a longtime English teacher at Westinghouse and a doctoral candidate at the University of Illinois at Chicago, got emotional at a virtual school council meeting on July 13.

I do not feel safe around a police officer, Lesus said, almost coming to tears.

She dismissed the overwhelming students support for on-campus officers.

Even just one of our 1,200 students feel the same way as I do, thats enough for us not to have an officer in the building, Lesus said.

Andrew Johnson, a social science teacher and college adviser at Westinghouse, cited research that indicates officers on campus dont make students safer. He argued that the school should move in the direction of restorative justice, such as peace circles that build relationships between adults and young adults.

Johnson also said a simplified schoolwide survey without context has limited value.

We did not ask them, if Westinghouse had $100,000 [annual salary for two on-campus officers] to do something great for building community and emotional and physical safety, what would you do with it?

Marvin Simpson, a parent of Westinghouse students and the newly elected president of the Westinghouse School Council, also cited research, conducted on his own.

Marvin Simpson, a parent of Westinghouse students and the newly elected president of Westinghouse School Council, spoke at a Westinghouse School Council meeting on July 13, 2021. (George Westinghouse College Prep/Screenshot via The Epoch Times)

The only research I know is the life I have lived, Simpson said at the virtual meeting. I live in Austin. I work in Austin. Ive seen people die. The thing I do know as a parent, for my son and his friends, what they really want is to have a cop standing at the bus stop with them until the bus comes.

Austin, just west of Garfield Park on the West Side, has been the second most violent neighborhood in Chicago this year, with 34 killed and 131 injured, mostly due to gunfire.

Kids are nervous. They have a reason to be nervous. Its a peace of mind to have an officer they can run to and say, Hey, hit that button on your hip instead of me calling 911. When a police officer calls, the police come much faster. Hope to God that it never occurs, Simpson said.

Darren Curry, another parent and a school council member, said he had seen both bad and good police officers, and youll never know the kind of officers youll run into.

But when I need one, Id rather roll the dice and have one, he said.

The Westinghouse school council voted on July 13 to keep one police officer on campus. Chicago Public Schools (CPS) empowered the school councils to make the decision about on-campus officers last year. These councils are made up of parents, community residents, school staff, and principals, and they serve as the policymaking body of the schools.

All 55 public high schools that currently have on-campus officers need to decide by July 14 if theyre going to keep those officers for the new school year.

In August, the Chicago Board of Education (CBE) will consider a new annual contract with the Chicago Police Department (CPD) based on the number of participating schools.

CBEs contract with CPD last year fell to $12 million from $33 million after 17 schools opted out of the School Resource Officer Program. This year, four more schools on the North and Southwest Side have opted to remove on-campus officers, according to the latest CPS data.

The movement to remove police officers from public school campuses gained momentum in Chicago following the death of George Floyd in May 2020.

In August 2020, a coalition of 12 local organizations demanded CBE terminate its contract with CPD and remove all on-campus officers before the fall semester. The coalition includes the Chicago Teachers Union, the Chicago Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights, and Chicago United for Equity.

One of the coalitions public letters reads: Unfortunately, CPD police officers have been used to fill the gaps in Chicagos most under-resourced schools, particularly in the South and West sides.  These students remain over-represented, targeted, and disproportionately subjected to over-policing resulting in the school-to-prison pipeline.

Dwayne Truss, a CBE member who voted to renew the CPD contract last year, told the SunTimes after the vote, What concerns me the most is, if you dont agree with me, somehow you dont like kids. Youre not concerned about kids safety.

Truss, a black parent who raised five sons in the violent Austin neighborhood on the West Side, said to the contrary, he does care about kids safety.

Black parents took this seriously, he told SunTimes.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is interviewed by The Epoch Times after signing into law Senate Bill 7072 at Florida International University in Miami on May 24, 2021. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

DeSantis Calls on Biden to Help Restore Internet for Cubans in Wake of Anti-Government Protests

Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-Fla.) called on President Joe Biden on Wednesday to help provide internet access to Cubans following reports that blackouts left many citizens on the island without online communication.

I write to urge you to assist in providing Internet access to the people of Cuba standing up against communist oppression and demanding a voice after decades of suffering under the yoke of a cruel dictatorship, the Republican governor wrote in the letter (pdf).

The communist regime has reportedly disrupted Cubans from their online communications in the wake of the biggest anti-government protests in decades, global internet monitoring company NetBlocks said.

Introduced just over two years ago, mobile internet has been a key factor for Cubans to express their views and frustrations on the communist regime while also providing them with a platform to enable the word to get out quickly when people are on the street.

For many days no one here has been able to connect because they cut the [internet] connection, Cuban citizen Andrea Lopez told Reuters. On the first days they cut the calls, they cut everything. My husband is in Mexico, I havent been able to talk to him. Nothing. All of this is how they [the Cuban regime] want it.

Protests erupted in multiple cities across the island nation on July 11, with citizens calling for greater freedoms and an end to the communist dictatorship. More than 100 protesters have been arrested and injured, including some police officersthough the regime did not specify how many people or officials were affected. One death was also reported by authorities on Tuesday as police and protesters clashed amid the nationwide protests.

People react during protests in Havana, Cuba, on July 11, 2021. (Stringer/Reuters)

As you know, the Cuban people are taking to the streets to protest the Communist regime, and the Cuban government has responded with violence, DeSantis said. At first, the world could see the images and videos of this mass movement, but now the tyrannical regime of President Miguel Diaz-Canel has shut off access to the internet.

The Cuban people have lost their ability to communicate with one another, and many Floridians born in Cuba have no information on the safety of their loved ones, he added, noting that access to the internet is of critical importance as they protest against the repressive Communist government.

In the hands of these brave individuals, such access may be the key to finally bringing democracy to the island, DeSantis concluded in the letter.

A similar message was sent to the Biden administration by Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), who urged the U.S. government to facilitate open and free internet access for Cubans.

Without it, the Cuban people, who yearn for basic political and economic freedoms, can more easily be monitored, suppressed, detained, and brutalized by the regime without accountability, the Republican senator wrote. Bringing free and open internet will help the Cuban people communicate with one another without censorship and repression and show them that the world stands beside them in their quest for liberty.

Reuters contributed to this report.

From NTD News
Facts Matter (July 14): Forensic Audit Finds That Ballot Totals Dont Match Maricopa Countys Numbers

Just yesterday, the Arizona Senate President announced that there is a discrepancy in the number of ballots counted for the 2020 election.

She said that the number of ballots tallied during the forensic audit does not match the official total that was given by Maricopa County.

Meanwhile, over in Texas, House Democrats wanted to derail voting on an election billand so they fled the state so a quorum couldnt be reached. They literally got on a plane to Washington D.C. so that the legislature couldnt vote on the measure.

However, it looks like their tactic may backfire, as Gov. Greg Abbott has called for them to be arrested.

Resources:

American Hartford Gold (866-242-2352): https://ept.ms/3biH9MN

 Arizona Numbers:

https://ept.ms/3B3dOk6

 Texas Open Cases:

https://ept.ms/3yW82Pm

https://ept.ms/3r8hLzs

 Texas Democrats

https://ept.ms/2TaCSo6

https://ept.ms/2UavJER

https://ept.ms/3yYU8fn

 FBI:

https://ept.ms/3kgmg9G

https://ept.ms/3hF8DPH

Stay tuned for our newsletter so you wont miss out on our exclusive videos and private events.

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FBI Mishandled Case of Convicted Sex Offender Larry Nassar: Watchdog

The FBI mishandled allegations of sexual abuse against the now-convicted sex offender former USA Gymnastics national team doctor Larry Nassar, a Justice Department watchdog concluded.

Nassar, the main doctor for Olympic gymnasts, was sentenced to 60 years in prison in 2017 on federal charges of possessing child sex abuse material. He was named in hundreds of lawsuits filed by female athletes who said that Nassar sexually abused them when he worked for Michigan State and Indiana-based USA Gymnastics. In 2018, Nassar was sentenced to up to 175 years and up to 125 years in two separate Michigan courts on sexual abuse charges.

In a report released on July 14, the Justice Department Inspector General (IG) Michael Horowitz found that the FBI had failed to respond to allegations of sexual abuse against Nassar with the utmost seriousness and urgency that the allegations deserved and required.

FBI officials made numerous and fundamental errors and violated multiple FBI policies in dealing with the allegations. They also failed to alert state or local authorities about the allegations, or to take other steps to stop the ongoing threat by Nassar, according to the report.

Two FBI officials lied during their interviews to cover up or minimize their errors, one of whom is an unnamed supervisory special agent, and another is identified as former special agent W. Jay Abbott, who retired in January 2018, Horowitz stated in his report.

According to the report, Abbott also made false statements to the FBI and the media in 2017 and 2018 about how his office handled the Nassar case, and he violated the FBIs conflict of interest policy by discussing a possible job with the U.S. Olympic Committee while he was involved with the Nassar investigation.

Allegations against Nassar were first reported to the FBI Indianapolis Field Office in July 2015 by Stephen Penny, president of USA Gymnastics at the time.

Agents at the field office conducted limited follow-up and failed to formally document any of their investigative activity, the IG report stated. Among the missteps, five weeks passed before FBI agents interviewed one of the victims, and they failed to interview the other two victims despite being told they were available to meet. They also failed to transfer the case to the FBIs Lansing Resident Agency, as recommended by the Indianapolis assistant U.S. attorney.

After eight months of FBI inactivity, USA Gymnastics in May 2016 reported the same allegations to the FBIs Los Angeles Field Office, which opened a federal sexual tourism investigation against Nassar and undertook numerous investigative steps, including interviewing several of Nassars alleged victims. However, like the Indianapolis Field Office, it didnt reach out to any state or local authorities, and didnt do anything to stop further threats by Nassar.

The Michigan State University Police Department (MSUPD) later received a separate complaint from a gymnast alleging sexual abuse by Nassar in August 2016. The department found child pornography in Nassars residence after carrying out a search warrant in September 2016.

Horowitz noted, citing civil court documents, that from July 2015 to August 2016, approximately 70 or more young athletes were allegedly sexually abused by Nassar under the guise of medical treatment.

Former Michigan State University and USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar appears in court for his final sentencing phase in Eaton County Circuit Court in Charlotte, Mich., on Feb. 5, 2018. (Rena Laverty/AFP via Getty Images)

The FBIs Lansing Resident Agency ultimately learned of the allegations via the press and MSUPD investigative activity, and opened a formal investigation into the matter in October 2016. The office ultimately found more than 30,000 images of child pornography on the devices the MSUPD had seized from Nassars residence.

In a statement responding to the report, the FBI said the behavior by some of its employees was inexcusable and a discredit to this organization. Douglas Leff, the FBI assistant director, said in the statement that Abbotts conduct was particularly troubling and is not representative of the FBI or of our tens of thousands of retirees and current employees.

He added that the supervisory special agent at the Indianapolis Field Office who wasnt named in the report is no longer a supervisor, and that upon learning that the OIG determined that the individual made false statements and mishandled the allegations of sexual abuse, the FBI took immediate action to ensure that the individual is not working on FBI matters, pending the completion of an internal FBI investigation.
5 Times More Children Committed Suicide Than Died of COVID-19 During Lockdown: UK Study

Five times more children and young people committed suicide than died of COVID-19 during the first year of the pandemic in the United Kingdom, according to a study, which also concluded that lockdowns are more detrimental to childrens health than the virus itself.

Researchers with the University College London, the University of York, the University of Liverpool, and the University of Bristol found in a study (pdf) that has not yet been peer-reviewed that the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, otherwise known as the coronavirus, doesnt appear to present a significant risk to children as compared with other age groups.

The study concluded, The risk of removal of CYP (children and young people) from their normal activities across education and social events may prove a greater risk than that of SARS-CoV-2 itself. SARS-CoV-2 is another name for the CCP virus.

It was revealed in the study that only 25 children under the age of 18 died of COVID-19 from the start of the pandemic until the end of February 2021. Around 61 children in all died after testing positive, but in 36 cases it was found the virus did not contribute to their death.

But during the same time period, there were 124 suicides among children and 268 deaths from trauma, the study authors found, while noting the virus is rarely fatal for children.

These new studies show that the risks of severe illness or death from SARS-CoV-2 are extremely low in children and young people, said University College London Professor Russell Viner, a senior author of the study, in a release this week. Our new findings are important as they will inform shielding guidance for young people as well as decisions about the vaccination of teenagers and children, not just in the UK but internationally.

Professor Lorna Fraser of the University of York added that even when we found higher risks for some groups with severe medical problems, these risks were still very small compared to risks seen in adults, explaining that people should know that COVID-19 risks for children are very low.

Meanwhile, Dr. Elizabeth Whittaker of Imperial College London said that the researchers hope the data will be reassuring for children and young people and their families.

In November, one UK researcher issued a warning that COVID-19 lockdowns are causing a spike in children harming themselves and drug overdoses among children.

Children are a lost tribe in the pandemic. While they remain (for the most part) perplexingly immune to the health consequences of COVID-19, their lives and daily routines have been turned upside down, Dr. John Wright of Bradford Royal Infirmary wrote at the time.
Florida County Board Kills Bill of Rights Ordinance, Passes Pre-Written Resolution Instead

On June 23, The Epoch Times reported that the Collier County Board of County Commissioners (CCBOCC) decided, by a measure of two to three, to postpone their vote on a proposed ordinance that would establish Collier County, Florida as a Bill of Rights Sanctuary. On July 13, the CCBOCCdescribed now by some as cowardskilled the ordinance by a vote of three to two and instead passed what could only be described as a pre-written resolution.

Commissioner Rick LoCastro (District 1) and Vice Chairman William McDaniel (District 5) voted for the ordinance. Commissioners Burt Saunders (District 3) and Andy Solis (District 2), as well as Chairman Penny Taylor (District 4), voted against the measure.

The fact that they had this resolution already prepared just showed what we already knew to be true, Kristina Heuser, the attorney who drafted the ordinance, told The Epoch Times. They had their minds made up before they went into the hearing.

This played out over six hours, Keith Flaugh, managing director of Florida Citizens Alliance, told The Epoch Times, and when it was all over, Penny jumped up immediately and ran to the projector with a prepared resolution.

I know some are pleased with the outcome of the vote and some may have been disappointed with my position on the issue, LoCastro told The Epoch Times. But multitudes of others werent. Regardless, democracy certainly was exercised as always in our country, and that is what is most important.

Even though the outcome of the vote was not in support of the ordinance, which was what I was hoping for and I know many people in the community were hoping for as well, Dan Cook of The Patriot Project explained to The Epoch Times, it was a win for the community because so many people came outfrom both sides of the aisleto speak in defense of the Bill of Rights.

I think commissioner Rick LoCastro had some very encouraging and on-point closing remarks, Cook added, and commissioner Burt Saunders was fair in his line of questioning and I think that sums it up.

Its unfortunate that its necessary, Heuser said of the need to push measures designed to protect our Bill of Rights. The federal government is really exceeding the bounds of its rightful authority and we need state and local governments to stand up against the federal government in defense of the individual rights of its citizens. Its really disturbing how our local representatives dont see that as their responsibility and they only want the United States Supreme Court to determine issues of constitutionality and thats so contrary to the way our government was structured by our founding fathers.

I think this is a hello to the federal government, Florida state Rep. Bob Rommel told The Epoch Times. Rommel was one of the more than 100 Collier County residents who registered to have their three minutes before the board.

This is more of a statement to the federal government that seems to be dipping its toe in violating the 10th Amendment by usurping power from the states, Rommel said.

A Coordinated Effort

A little over two dozen people attended the June meeting to address the board about the proposed ordinance. While no one spoke in opposition of the measure at the June meeting, the number of residents who showed up on July 13 to voice their objections nearly equaled the number of those who stood in support.

Comments from those who came to support the ordinance ranged from personal stories of having fled countries like Cuba and Mexico to fears of government overreach displayed during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some cited the Biden administrations decision to send capitol police to open a field office in Tampa, Florida, to investigate citizens they claim are potential insurrectionists as a reason for the ordinance. Others spoke about the presidents plan to send people door-to-door to get help to the remaining people protected from the virus, an exercise Rep. Madison Cawthorn (R-N.C.) believes could be a practice run for a future plan to confiscate peoples guns and Bibles.

Comments in opposition to the ordinance ranged from worries about how possible lawsuits would cost taxpayers more money to fears it would create more division and chaos in an already divided country. Considering that the board members already swore an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States, some people didnt understand why the measure was necessary. Others accused those who supported the measure of being insurrectionists and expressed confusion as to why they supported a measure to provide sanctuary for the Bill of Rights but would oppose providing sanctuary to illegal immigrants.

Curiously, while those who supported passage of the ordinance shared unique stories to encourage the board to adopt the measure, several people noticed that the comments delivered by many who opposed the ordinance were awkwardly and notably similar. Identical phrases and words like insurrectionists, supremacy clause, unintended consequences and nullifying federal law were heard over and over and in nearly the same order, as if each of them had prepared their individual version of a pre-written script.

According to Hueser, the board members were bombarded with emails prior to the July 13 meeting. She said many of the emails from the opposition referenced a blog post by Collier County resident David Silverberg, who also spoke at the meeting.

During the course of the meeting, LoCastro even mentioned, more than once, the exorbitant amount of emails he had received regarding the proposed ordinance.

In a July 7 post on his blog, The Paradise Progressive, Silverberg pairs the otherwise positive word sanctuary (from the title of the ordinance) with a word that has become tied to the chaos that took place at the Capitol Building on Jan. 6: insurrection.

In the rambling manifesto that follows, Silverberg provides an in-depth look at dueling definitions of sanctuary in America and Southwest Florida and what they mean for the future and concludes with a notice of the date of the CCBOCC meeting and the contact information for each board member.

Other posts written by Silverberg display an obsessive and almost disturbing disdain for Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.), a Collier County native who made a surprise appearance at the meeting in June to speak in support of the Bill of Rights Sanctuary Ordinance.

The left is very good at orchestrating and mobilizing their people and they did that here, Heuser confessed, saying she had never seen such a presence from the other side until that meeting.

Heuser was not the only one to suspect some behind-the-scenes coordination.

That happens frequently, Flaugh said. The fact that they orchestrated all of those people to come in and basically bow to federal government supremacy on anything was shocking.

There was an organized, orchestrated campaign against this and a lot of people were using the same talking points, Cook observed. I heard anywhere from five to ten people bring up January 6th and the insurrectionists. I saw a lot of the same tactics exactly a year ago when they passed the mask mandate.

The Cowardly Resolution

According to Heuser, passing the pre-written resolution was nothing more than a cowardly effort by the board members to cover themselves politically.

The commissioners got it wrong by refusing to stand up and protect the individual rights and Constitutional Rights of Collier County residents, Heuser insisted. And for them to pass a resolution saying they support the Constitution, when they demonstrated such a fundamentally flawed understanding of what the Constitution actually stands for, its like the Twilight Zone.

I had a fair amount of anger at the way it played out, Flaugh confessed. But at the end of the day, as I thought about it, it was just sad. We have three board of county commissioners who claim to be conservatives. I would call them cowards.
Former Gov. Jerry Brown Criticizes Californias Spending

Former California Gov. Jerry Brown criticized the state for spending money wildly a day before Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a $100 billion California Comeback Plan.

Money doesnt grow on trees, Brown said during a July 11 interview with NBC. Federal government is getting deeply into debt. Theyre spending money wildly. The state is now spending money, its not sustainable.

He continued, We need a more frugal sustainable prudent way of doing business. I would predict certainly within two years, were going to see fiscal stress.

Browns comments followed the states $116.5 million vaccine lottery initiative to encourage residents to become inoculated, and the announcement of the proposed $100 billion spending plan in May.

The federal government borrowed a lot of money because they dont have enough and they showered money on the economy, and that just put checks in peoples hands, in business and they spent it, Brown told NBC. The state has a big share of money they never had before, but its artificially pumped up by one, the federal governments stimulus, [and] number two, the growing utter inequality of the economy that the rich people make so much damn money and California happens to tax the rich people disproportionately.

Brown further commented on the homelessness in California, saying there needs to be a bigger effort to address the crisis.

The former governor said that the state must work to distinguish between those who are addicted to substances and those who are mentally disturbed. The facilities built for the homeless must have enforced rules, including mandatory drug treatment, Brown said.

I dont think its easy, he said. Its hard because youve got to spend more money, but you have to be willing to exercise control, discipline, [and] authority. Im afraid people shrink back from that.

The $100 billion California comeback plan Newsom signed July 12, includes about $12 billion to address the states homelessness crisis and move more people off the streets. The plan will also cover $600 stimulus checks that are being mailed out to Californian households with an income of $75,000 or less. Qualifying families with children will receive an additional $500.

Harnessing the largest surplus in state history, were making transformative investments across the board that will help bring all our communities roaring back from the pandemic and pay dividends for generations to come, Newsom said in a July 12 12 press release. Through this comprehensive plan, the state is taking on the inequities laid bare by the pandemic, expanding our support for Californians facing the greatest hardships, increasing opportunity for every child, confronting homelessness head-on and doubling down on our work to build resilience against the climate change impacts that threaten Californias future.
Attendees from various forces march next to a banner supporting the new national security law at the end of a flag-raising ceremony to mark the 23rd anniversary of Hong Kong's handover from Britain in Hong Kong on July 1, 2020. (Anthony Wallace/AFP via Getty Images)

Frequent Political Crackdowns Force Hong Kong Alliance to Lay Off Staff

Recently, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has been escalating its crackdown on political groups and the media in Hong Kong. On July 10, the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China (Hong Kong Alliance) laid off all its staff because of political pressure. On the same day, Hong Kong Chief Secretary for Administration Lee Ka-Chiu announced to fight against spreading of false news. Meanwhile, Chief Executive Carrie Lam called for patriotic education on Hong Kong youths.

The Hong Kong Alliance said in a press release that the political environment in Hong Kong had degenerated drastically in the past year, and the political suppression against the Hong Kong Alliance has become more intense and evident in the past two months.

After much deliberation, the Alliance also affirmed that their Standing Committee has decided to strategically reduce the number of members from 14 to 7. At the same time, in response to the increased political and legal risks, they will lay off all staff at the end of July to protect their safety.

Ending one-party dictatorshipone of the five guiding principles of the Hong Kong Allianceis the real enemy of Hong Kongs prosperity and stability, said Luo Huining at a forum on June 12. Luo is the director of the Liaison Office of the Central Committee of CCP (Liaison Office), the highest-ranking CCP officer in Hong Kong.

The five primary guiding principles of the Hong Kong Alliance are: releasing pro-democracy activists; vindicating the 1989 pro-democracy movement; pursuing responsibility for the massacre of Tiananmen Square; ending one-party dictatorship; and building a democratic China.

Hong Kong Alliance must remove this politically subversive guiding principle, or else they will ban the Alliance, threatened Tian Feilong, director of the Hong Kong and Macau Research Association, in Sing Tao Daily on May 31.

Under the National Security Law, the Hong Kong Alliance has only two choices: either to disband or to proscribe, which is  something that must be done. claimed Lu Wenduan, the vice-chairman of the Overseas Chinese Association, in an article in Ming Pao on June 7.

Hong Kong Alliance was established on May 21, 1989, to support the student democracy movement in China at the time. After the world-shaking June 4 massacre in Tiananmen Square, the Hong Kong Alliance holds a large-scale memorial event on June 4 every year.

However, starting last year, Hong Kong authorities forbid the event with the excuse of the epidemic. Furthermore, the organizers and participants of last years June 4 event were all retroactively prosecuted under the Hong Kong version of the National Security Law, including Lee Cheuk-yan, Ho Chun-yan, and Chow Hang-tung, who are still in jail or detained.

Hong Kong Government Targeting Fake News to Suppress Independent Media

On July 10, Lee Ka-Chiu said in a Hong Kong Commercial Radio program that the government is studying combating the dissemination of fake news and does not exclude implementing it through administrative and legislative means.

The Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA) responded on its Facebook account, reminding that the authority would first understand the operation of Functional Constituency before it coins the term fake news and makes presumptuous accusations against the press.

Functional constituency, also called professional representation, is a category of a professional or particular interest group that has special voting rights in the Hong Kong electoral process. Early in 1998, sports, performing arts, culture, and publication (to which the press belongs), was listed in the functional constituency in the elections for the Legislative Council of Hong Kong.

But on June 24, press organizations, including the Hong Kong Epoch Times and the Hong Kong Journalists Association, received letters from the Voter Registration Office informing that they were no longer eligible to register as voters in their constituencies.

Among the 133 votable groups listed in the sports, performing arts, culture and publication sector, most of the media in Hong Kong are excluded. As a result, only the CCP-controlled TVB, Commercial Radio, Metro Radio, Wen Wei Po, and Ta Kung Pao remained on the votable groups list.

The Hong Kong Journalists Association said that Hong Kong press organizations and major media organizations have relevant codes of conduct for journalists. The Code of Professional Conduct for Journalists was jointly established in 2000.

Only a media that has the trust of the majority of the public will have the monitoring function of the fourth estate, said the Hong Kong Journalists Association, warning the Hong Kong authority, It is counterproductive to use administrative and legislative means to interfere with public-accepted social operation.

CCP Implementing Patriotic Education

At the Hong Kong Patriotic Education Summit on July 10, Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam called to promote patriotic education in Hong Kong, focusing on young people so that students can be more aware of their national identity.

In the coming school year, Hong Kong schools will replace liberal studies with Civic and Social Development, aiming to strengthen the national identity of Hong Kongs next generation through learning about one country, two systems and the Basic Law, and so on. Lam has listed all these in her work achievements.

Chinese Vice Minister of Education Tian Xuejun said in a video that the main theme of patriotism is to be promoted in Hong Kong. Tan Tieniu, deputy director of the Liaison Office of the Central Peoples Government in Hong Kong, also said that patriotic education carried out in Hong Kong should be done with with integrity and vigor.

On Feb. 4, patriotic education would start in kindergarten and teach children to comply with the Hong Kong version of the National Security Law, ordered by the Hong Kong Education Bureau.

It is a brainwashing education, said Pak-ho, a high school student who supports Hong Kongs Anti-Extradition Law Amendment Bill Movement.

The Anti-Extradition Law Amendment Bill Movement began in 2019, something the CCP media attributed to the more liberal education in Hong Kong.

In May, the Hong Kong Correctional Services Department admitted in its annual report that they had invited people from pro-China backgrounds to their prison to provide patriotic education to the youths imprisoned for participating in the protests.

The so-called patriotic education imprisons young people ideologically, said Chung Kim-wah, deputy Chief Executive Officer of Hong Kong Institute of Public Opinion Research, who mentioned that really has the characteristics of Xinjiang education camps and brainwashing camps.
A family takes pictures in front of a separate mural of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minn., on May 28, 2020. The mural looks similar to the one that collapsed on July 13 in Toledo, Ohio. (Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

George Floyd Mural Destroyed by Lightning Strike, Witnesses Say; Cause Disputed

Toledo witnesses and fire department say lightning caused it to collapse, but city inspector said building was in disrepair

Witnesses and a local fire department spokesperson said a George Floyd mural in Toledo, Ohio, was destroyed Tuesday after it was struck by lightning, although some local officials disputed their assertion and said it crumbled due to disrepair.

Sterling Rahe, a spokesman for the citys Fire and Rescue Department, told the Toledo Blade that the department agreed with witnesses claims that the mural collapsed due to a lightning strike. That assertion, according to Rahe, was also based on an inspection of the scene.

Heavy thunderstorms replete with lightning rolled across the Midwest and the northeastern United States this week. Weather forecasters with WTVG-TV reported there was a lightning strike in the area of the mural at Summit and Lagrange streets in Toledo.

A city building inspector, Hugh Koogan, disputed the claim that a lightning strike destroyed the mural, which was created amid protests, riots, and violence after Floyds officer-involved death in May 2020.

It was just age. It just came away, he told the Toledo Blade. It happens to the older buildings.

The George Floyd Memorial mural at Summit and Lagrange in Toledo has come down. No word yet on the circumstances #13abc pic.twitter.com/SkB2eDhijB  Shaun Hegarty (@Shaun_Hegarty) July 13, 2021

Koogan added that city officials noted that the middle of the wall, where much of the damage occurred, was bowing in recent days. The official dismissed claims that any weather, including lightning or wind, was the cause.

David Ross, who painted the mural, told the Toledo Blade that he believes the mural did not simply collapse, suggesting that vandals may have targeted it. Ross alleged that he received threats and criticism for painting the picture, which shows an idealized image of Floyd behind a multicolored backdrop.

When I did the mural, there was stuff on the wall that I couldnt remove and that let me know how strong that structure was, Ross was quoted by the paper as saying and added that hell repaint it despite the cause. The lightning thing, thats possible, but I know it didnt just fall.

Photos taken at the scene of the mural collapse show what appears to be a black streak in the center of the brickwork, although its not clear whether thats due to age, a lightning strike, or something else.

As reported by WTVG-TV, the mural collapsed nearly one year after it was finished, in July 2020. Local Black Lives Matter groups have held demonstrations and other events in front of the mural since then.

A Toledo building inspector told the station that after the collapse, the building is structurally sound.

The Epoch Times has contacted the City of Toledo for additional comment.
Going Chicago-Style

A brief history of the Chicago-style hot dog, an all-American classicand where to get your fix

Ill take a dawg, run it troo da gahden, in a paper bag ta go, said my friend Danny Higgins, adopting a strong Chicago accent as he explained how to order the works on a hot dog in his city. We sat eating a couple of dogs together at Mustards Last Stand near Northwestern Universitys campus. My wife Tip and I were in Chicago for the weekend to celebrate both the Fourth of July and National Hot Dog Month, trying to sort out how the city came to have its own way of eating this particular American favorite.

My Chicago friend and food-enthusiast Geoff Burton happily informed me of the basics: a Vienna Beef hot dog in a poppy-seed bun, topped with yellow mustard, piccalilli (a pickle relish often the bright color of green candied cherries), onion, tomato, a pickle spear, sport peppers (short, pickled, medium-spicy green peppers similar to pepperoncini), and celery salt. Chicago dogs are typically steamed, simmered, or sometimes char-grilled, but never boiled or left on a roller like at the gas station. Natural casing is not required, but it does give the dog that marvelous snap when you bite into it. And good lord, dont ask for ketchup, positively verboten by the faithful.

How did all this come about?

Origins of an American Classic

The origins of the sausagechopped meats in animal gutare lost in the mists of time, writes Bruce Kraig, professor emeritus in history and humanities at Roosevelt University. In Hot Dog: A Global History, Kraig tells us that archaeologists have found evidence of such as far back as the Upper Paleolithic 20,000 years ago.

The hot dog, however, is a truly American food, but with its origins, of course, in immigration. We also call them franksshort for Frankfurter, from Frankfurt, Germanyand wienersas in from Wien, or Vienna, Austria. Myths abound as to the name origina Worlds Fair, Coney Island, various ballparksbut Kraig digs through the filler to find the meat of the story: a food cart near Yale in the 1890s. The Kennel Club, often referred to as the Dog Wagon, served a sausage in a split bun.

Kleins book documents historical references to this and similar carts, and the term hot dog appears in 1890s magazines, cartoons, and songs. Recent arrivals in America, Germans were mocked for their accents, and jokes were made at their expenseincluding some that suggested that dogs made it into their sausage recipes. You still see dachshunds wearing buns in hot dog stand logos.

Chicago Takes Up the Dogs

In 1865, Chicagos Union Stock Yards opened and soon saw millions of animals arriving annually in the meatpacking district, compelling poet Carl Sandburg to dub the town Hog Butcher for the World in his 1914 poem Chicago. Unsurprisingly, Armour & Co. and Oscar Mayer got their starts in Chicago, and in 1893, after their all-beef hot dog made a splash at the Worlds Fair, Austrian-Hungarian immigrants Emil Reichel and Samuel Ladany founded Vienna Sausage Co. in the heart of Maxwell Street.

In the 19th century, the Maxwell Street Market opened in what was then the Jewish quarter of Chicago. As the bustling market and neighborhood grew, it was often referred to as the Ellis Island of the Midwest. Unlike traditional frankfurters, which contained a mix of pork and beef, the Jewish sausages went all beef. The mere absence of pork didnt necessarily make them all kosher, but the general public had the impression that these were higher-quality dogs.

Abe Fluky Drexler opened Flukys Red Hots in 1929, the first hot dog stand on Maxwell Street. Others followed. Vendors highlighted the toppings as a salad on the dog, especially during the Great Depression. This Depression sandwich cost five cents; an even more Depression (and depressing) option at some stands was just the bread and toppings, without the dog, for two cents. When Maxwell Street fell to development in 1994 and the market moved, vendors were cast about town or closed altogether.

But why no ketchup? Vienna Beefs marketing surely pushed the tradition forward, but ketchup has other detractors. Bob Schwartz, a Vienna Beef executive, authored a hot dog history book, Never Put Ketchup on a Hot Dog. In 1954, Jimmy Faruggia founded Jimmys Red Hots with the strict rejection of it. They both point out something even my 5-year-old self knew: Ketchup covers up the flavors of things. While that prevented a finicky child from starving to death, using it on a dog suggests the ingredients arent delicious.

And once an idea like this spreads, it becomes a cultural signifier: You aint from Chicago if you ruin a dog with ketchup.

If You Go: Windy City Dog Joints

Geoff put together a short itinerary of great places to go Chicago-style. He prefers them char-grilled (a char-dog) and smothered with a good cheese sauce. To be clear, this list is nowhere near exhaustive, nor is it ranked. There are no losers hereonly wieners.

First on Geoffs list, and his favorite place for that cheese sauce, is also my personal favorite, first visited when I lived in Chicago back in 1991: The Wieners Circle. Famed for its brusque yet endearingly profane treatment of customers, the shop is currently under renovations, soon to reopen serving alcohol. Their char-dogs should be on any short list of Chicago dog stands.

Vienna Beef

The star of all true Chicago dogs: Vienna Beef. (Kevin Revolinski)

Our first stop, then, was the home of the star of all true Chicago dogs: Vienna Beef. While some shops use other brands or even make their own sausages, the bright yellow brand name or neon-lit signs are proudly displayed in keepers of the faith. The company loves brand loyalty, and inducts vendors into a hall of fame each year.

The South Side factory keeps a store across the street where you can stock up on all things hot dog, including the precise (and branded) toppings. Not getting to Chicago soon? Theyll ship you any of the ingredients, including a couple of kits only available on their website.

The store also serves as a hot dog stand, with a standup counter and outdoor picnic tables. Outside, I fumbled with my hot dog and camera. Gimme ya camera! said a burly guy, without introduction, wiping his hands on his pants after leaving his dog at a table under a Vienna Beef umbrella. My startled look prompted him to add, with a stereotypical Chicago accent that would put a Saturday Night Live sketch to shame, Get a picture of you two. My wife and I posed under the Vienna Beef sign, and he snapped a few shots and returned to his meal.

Jims Original

Jims Original, one of the Maxwell Street Market survivors. (Kevin Revolinski)

One of the Maxwell Street Market survivors is Jims Original, most famous for its Maxwell Street Polish sausage. Instead of sport peppers, they serve a larger pickled pepper that left me hiccuping at the heat. The pre-prepped, sweet grilled onions are a bit soggy compared to the usual fresh diced ones, but these were delicious nevertheless. All dogs come with a side of crispy french fries.

Open 24/7, Jims makes a great late-night stop, and its location right off I-90 just south of Roosevelt makes it your quickest stop if just passing through town.

Flub A Dub Chubs

Geoff joined us as we hit a basement restaurant in a repurposed red-brick walk-up: Flub A Dub Chubs, which has earned recognition for its dogs in the 15 short years its been open. Rosemary Giarratano, a wry, seen-it-all member of the Giarratano family that owns and operates the joint, brought out a Flubby, the signature Chicago dogand the most perfectly prepared and photogenic one we had that daywith a side of tater tots.

Rosemary Giarratano outside Flub A Dub Chubs. (Kevin Revolinski)

Flub A Dub Chubs signature Flubby, with a side of tater tots. (Kevin Revolinski)

At this point, I misidentified it as my order and she handed it to me  but it was for the next table. I ended up helping Rosemary deliver it after the mix-up, at which point she fired me on the spot, making this the fastest Ive ever gone through the hire and fire process. Probably.

You can add cheese sauce, chili, and/or a bacon wrap here, and the menu offers 14 dog recipes, including a vegan option, plus burgers and more. Frankly, I loved this place.

Fatsos Last Stand

Fatsos Last Stand. (Kevin Revolinski)

Next stop: Fatsos Last Stand, where Geoff finally got his char-dog. Dogs come with all the usual ingredients plus a side of house fries, a lineup of Jarritos sodas, and some interesting milkshake flavors, including Irish Coffee, with the expected whiskey. Dog options also include a sauerkraut/spicy mustard NYC version.

Gene & Judes

Gene & Judes. (Kevin Revolinski)

Gene & Judes was founded in 1946 by Gene Mormino and Jude DeSantis, who felt their ballpark dogs at a Cubs game were missing somethingnot fries with that, but fries on that. Their dogs are known as Depression Dogs, based on those cheap frankfurters of old. Mustard, relish, onions, and sport peppers are optional, and there are no pickles or celery salt. Hand-cut fries are laid right on top of the dog.

Inside, the line was fairly long, but then so was the line of employees behind the counter, taking orders and moving them out quickly. No seats, no ketchup, no pretense, no nonsense, reads their website. A wall is adorned with awards and feature articles.

One would be remiss not to mention their only non-dog offering: tamales. Add it to your bag.

Superdawg

Superdawg Drive-In, with mascots Maurie and Flaurie, named for the owners, on the roof. (Kevin Revolinski)

Superdawg combines the all-American food with the all-American drive-in. Stay in the car, order at the car-side speaker and lighted menu, and a carhop brings your order. (Sorry, no roller skates.) These were all-beef, but not Vienna brand, and a bit thicker. They come with fries and a pickled green tomato slice among the toppings, all in a handy little cardboard box that helps keep your food off your clothing better than the typical paper wrapping.

Superdawgs dogs and fries come in a handy little cardboard box. (Kevin Revolinski)

Go in the evening to see the hot dogs Maurie and Flaurie light up on top of the buildinga fitting end to the beginning of the dog days of summer.

Kevin Revolinski is an avid traveler, craft beer enthusiast, and home cooking fan. He is the author of 15 books, including The Yogurt Man Cometh: Tales of an American Teacher in Turkey and his new collection of short stories, Stealing Away. Hes based in Madison, Wisconsin, and his website is TheMadTraveler.com.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and his Lithuanian counterpart Ingrida Simonyte attend a news conference following their meeting at the Maximos Mansion in Athens, Greece, July 15, 2021. (Dimitris Papamitsos/Greek Prime Minister's Office/Handout via Reuters)

Greece Offers Lithuania Support Amid Sharp Rise in Illegal Immigrant Numbers

ATHENS, GreeceThe government of Greece has offered to share its experiences on illegal immigration with Lithuania, which is facing a sharp rise in the number of people crossing its border illegally, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on July 15, after what he called an orchestrated effort by Belarus to pressure its neighbor.

The comments, following a meeting with Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte in Athens, come as Lithuanian and EU officials have accused Minsk of using illegal immigrants to pressure the European Union because of the blocs sanctions.

What Belarus is doing is simply unacceptable, Mitsotakis said, adding that the leaders had discussed how to ensure proper reception facilities, accelerate asylum procedures, and also how to effectively and quickly return those not entitled to international protection.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis welcomes his Lithuanian counterpart, Ingrida Simonyte, at the Maximos Mansion in Athens, on July 15, 2021. (Dimitris Papamitsos/Greek Prime Ministers Office/Handout via Reuters)

Amid rising tensions between the European Union and Belarus this year, more than 1,700 people have crossed the border into Lithuania, including 1,100 in July alone.

The total number might not seem very frightening but what is frightening is the trend, Simonyte said, adding that more than 20 times more people had entered than in previous years.

Greece, which has long accused its neighbor Turkey of exploiting the migration issue, bore the brunt of the crisis in 2015, when more than 1 million people entered the European Union from countries such as Syria and Afghanistan.

At the same time, Athens has also faced criticism for its handling of the issue and accusations, which it strongly denies, of illegal pushbacks of boats entering its waters from Turkey.

Mitsotakis repeated that while migration was a problem for the EU as a whole, it particularly weighed on states with external borders. He said he had agreed with Simonyte to coordinate common positions regarding the new EU migration and asylum pact.

They agreed that the new policy shouldnt overburden member states that saw more migratory pressures because of their geography, he said.

Lithuania will also seek a more effective migration policy, the Lithuanian PMs spokeswoman told Reuters.

The European Unions executive began a plan in September to overhaul migration rules to resolve years of bitterness over refugees fleeing the Middle East and Africa.

The most sensitive element would de facto oblige each state to host some refugeeswhich is firmly opposed by eastern nations Poland and Hungary.

By James Mackenzie and Andrius Sytas
Gunman Dead in Wisconsin Gas Station Shooting Is Identified

CALEDONIA, Wis.Authorities in Wisconsin have identified the man they say was lying in wait at a travel center before quietly walking up to a young man who was pumping gas and fatally shooting him.

John McCarthy, 32, of Hartland, was later killed after confronting an undercover sheriffs investigator at another gas station not far away in Caledonia on Tuesday, Racine County sheriffs officials said.

Officials on Wednesday identified the victim who was fatally shot by McCarthy at the Pilot Travel Center as Anthony Griger, 22, of Elkhorn. Griger was a 2017 graduate of Franklin High School who family and friends called Nino.

Sheriff Christopher Schmaling said the gunman executed Griger while the victim filled his vehicle with gas about 7:30 a.m.

He sat there and waited for the right opportunity. And when he was pumping gas, he quietly walked up to him and shot him dead, Schmaling told the Racine County Board on Tuesday night. Officials have not identified a motive for the shooting.

Authorities in Wisconsin respond to an apparent shooting at a Pilot Travel Center in Franksville, Wis., on July 13, 2021. (Diana Panuncial/The Journal Times via AP)

Family members posted on a GoFundMe page that Grigers death was all too sudden.

There are no words to express the anguish and shock that all of Ninos family and friends are experiencing right now. We pray that he is at peace and in the loving arms of those who have gone before him, a statement read.

Schmaling said McCarthy rummaged through Grigers pockets before shooting at another person who was driving through the parking lot. That person was not injured.

McCarthy then drove to a Mobil station about 2 miles away, according to authorities. There, with a gun drawn, Schmaling said, McCarthy approached the undercover investigator who was pumping gas into his unmarked squad car.

The two exchanged gunfire. McCarthy was shot and killed. The investigator, whose name hasnt been released, suffered multiple gunshot wounds that fractured several bones around his pelvis, the sheriffs office said. He is recovering at a Racine hospital.
Men carry flowers to a spot outside the presidential palace in memory of slain President Jovenel Moise in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on July 14, 2021. (Matias Delacroix/(AP Photo)

Haiti Police Chief Links Venezuelan to Assassination Plot

PORT-AU-PRINCE, HaitiHaitis police chief on Wednesday accused a Venezuelan businessman who owns a security company in Florida of traveling to Haiti numerous times as part of a plot to assassinate President Jovenel Moise, who was killed last week.

Leon Charles, head of the Haitis National Police, said Antonio Intriago of CTU Security signed a contract while in Haiti but provided no other details and offered no evidence.

The investigation is very advanced, Charles said.

Intriago could not be immediately reached for comment.

Colombias national police chief Jorge Vargas has said that CTU Security used its company credit card to buy 19 plane tickets from Bogota to Santo Domingo for the Colombian suspects allegedly involved in the killing.

Vargas said Thursday that two former members of the Colombian military, German Alejandro Garcia and Duberney Capador, appear to have been responsible for planning and organizing the alleged arrest operation.

It was managed by the Colombians to, quote/unquote, plan the arrest of the president and put him at the disposition of, and this is what they say, an alleged arrest by the DEA (U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration), Vargas said standing outside Bogotas Interpol office.

During a news conference Wednesday evening, Haitis police chief Leon Charles pleaded with Haitians to help officials track down suspects who remain on the run, including a former senator he described as a key suspect and is accused of providing weapons used in the July 7 attack.

Former Sen. John Joel Joseph, a Haitian politician and opponent of the Tet Kale party that Moise belonged to, is one of five fugitives whom police say are armed and dangerous.

We are looking for these assassins, and wherever they go we need to capture them, arrest them and bring them to justice, Charles said.

In a video posted last year on YouTube, the former senator compared Moise to the coronavirus, saying Haitians have died from hunger or been killed amid a spike in violence under his administration.

Insecurity has infected every single Haitian, Joseph said.

The police chief also announced the arrest of Gilbert Dragon, who led a rebel group known as the National Revolutionary Front for the Liberation and Reconstruction of Haiti. The group seized power in parts of Haiti after the 2004 coup that led to the ouster of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide.

Authorities said they found several weapons at his house, including a saber, two grenades, and an AR-15.

In addition, officers arrested a Haitian man identified as Reynaldo Corvington, who is accused of providing the suspects with housing and giving them sirens to use on top of their cars with help from another suspect, James Solages, a Haitian American who was detained in recent days.

Corvington owns a private security company called Corvington Courier & Security Service, which he established in 1982, according to its website, which provides tips on how to survive a kidnapping.

Police said they found several weapons at his house, including nine pistols and an AR-15.

Another of the fugitives identified by police is Joseph Felix Badio. Charles said Badio rented a house near Moises home to help the suspects understand the layout of the area.

Badio previously worked for Haitis Ministry of Justice and joined the governments anti-corruption unit in March 2013. The agency issued a statement saying he was fired in May following serious breaches of unspecified ethical rules, adding that it filed a complaint against him.

This villainous act is an affront to our democracy, the unit said in a statement.

Charles, the police chief, said four high-ranking officials who were in charge of the presidents security detail are being held in isolation as authorities continue to track down other fugitives, including Rodolphe Jaar. He was born in Haiti, speaks English and has a college degree in business administration, according to court records. He is not a U.S. citizen.

Jaar, who once used the alias Whiskey, was indicted in 2013 in federal court in South Florida on charges of conspiring to smuggle cocaine from Colombia and Venezuela through Haiti to the United States. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to nearly four years in prison, according to court records.

At his 2015 sentencing hearing, Jaars attorney told the court that Jaar had been a confidential source for the U.S. government for several years before his indictment. He also agreed to cooperate with federal authorities and asked for a lighter sentence, saying he had a wife, 1-year-old and elderly parents.

In June 2000, Jaar filed a civil suit against the U.S. government seeking the return of a large amount of cash taken from him along with his passport and tourist visa when he was stopped in a rental car by customs agents. He was not arrested at the time, but Jaar said he learned he was under investigation for money laundering.

The government later returned his property and did not file charges. Jaar, who dropped the lawsuit, described himself in court papers as the owner of a successful import business in Haiti. He said his family has operated the enterprise since 1944.

Authorities in Haiti are investigating Moises killing with help from Colombias government, which has said at least 18 former Colombian soldiers suspected in the slaying have been arrested and remain detained in Haiti. Charles said three Haitians also have been arrested and at least three suspects killed, adding that they continue to investigate those detained to identify the masterminds behind the slaying.

The detained Haitians have been identified as Solages, Joseph Vincent and Christian Emmanuel Sanon.

Police had said Sanon flew to Haiti in June aboard a private jet with several of the alleged gunmen. The 62-year-old is a Haitian physician, church pastor and Florida businessman who once expressed a desire to lead Haiti in a YouTube video and has denounced the countrys leaders as corrupt.

Charles said that Sanon was working with those who plotted the assassination and that Moises killers were protecting him. He said officers who raided Sanons house in Haiti found a hat with a DEA logo, 20 boxes of bullets, gun parts, four license plates from the Dominican Republic, two cars and correspondence.
A firefighting tanker makes a retardant drop over the Grandview Fire near Sisters, Ore., on July 11, 2021. (Oregon Department of Forestry via AP)

Homes Destroyed, Threatened by Oregon Wildfire

In Oregon, the lightning-sparked Bootleg Fire that has destroyed at least 20 homes was raging through lands north of the California border Wednesday.

At least 2,000 homes were threatened by flames.

A spokesman for the Northwest Incident Management Team 10 working to contain the fire, said that since he arrived in the area last week, the blaze had doubled in size each day.

After less extreme growth, the fire early Wednesday spanned nearly 332 square miles, an area larger than New York City.

As an intense heatwave abated, excessive-heat warnings expired but fire weather warnings were in place for the interior of Oregon, eastern Washington, part of Idaho, and the northeast corner of California due to winds and very low humidity.

Members of the Oregon National Guard were expected to be deployed to help with road closures and traffic control in fire-affected areas.

The fire in the Fremont-Winema National Forest was burning through a region where the Klamath Tribescomprising three distinct Indigenous people have lived for millennia.

The Klamath Tribes have been affected by wildfires before, including one that burned 23 square miles in southern Oregon last September.

That fire damaged land where many Klamath tribal members hunt, fish, and gather.

The fire also burned the tribes cemetery and at least one tribal members house, Oregon Public Broadcasting reported in September.

The tribes are struggling with drought-caused problems. In past decades, they have fought to preserve minimum water levels in Upper Klamath Lake to preserve two species of federally endangered suckerfish that are central to their culture and heritage.

Farmers draw much of their irrigation water from the same lake thats critical to the fish.

Even before the fire erupted, extreme drought in southern Oregon had reduced water flows to historic lows.

As an intense heatwave abated, excessive-heat warnings expired but fire weather warnings were in place for the interior of Oregon, eastern Washington, part of Idaho, and the northeast corner of California due to winds and very low humidity.
Honest Advice on Funding Your Startup

If youre an entrepreneur its hard not to have fallen in love with HBOs Silicon Valley. Its arguably the most authentic look at the trials and tribulations that we startup founders have to face dailydespite being satire. While I could go on and on about how this series speaks the truth, one of the most interesting topics discussed on the show is how the fictional company, Pied Piper, receives funding and its effects on the team.

Advice on Funding your Startup

As the series demonstrates, funding is both a blessing and a curse. While its vital that your startup raise money to help it scale, it also comes with cons like losing control over your company to potential investors.

While there are plenty of reasons why self-funding is popular, founders have realized that by going in this direction, they can retain control of their company and be more careful with spending. Self-funding also allows them to be more creative since they have to think outside of the box, and it gives them more time to work on their business, instead of preparing and meeting with investors.

Sweat Equity: Bootstrapping 101

With bootstrapping, you must start generating revenue as soon as possible. Guy Kawasaki suggests that you must focus on cash flow, not profitability, though. The theory is that profits are the key to survival. If you could pay the bills with theories, this would be fine, Kawasaki writes. The reality is that you pay bills with cash, so focus on cash flow.

If you know you are going to bootstrap, you should start a business with a small up-front capital requirement, short sales cycles, short payment terms, and recurring revenue. It means passing up the big sale that takes twelve months to close, deliver, and collect. Cash is not only king; its queen and prince too for a bootstrapper.

Another popular train of thought to follow is that of The Lean Startup, written by Eric Ries. The basic idea is to spend the least amount of time and money developing an MVP (Minimum Viable Product).

Once you have a product built, release it to the market. The market will decide whether or not your product or service holds real value to your customers. If it does, you can look to fully develop the rest of your product or service.

If the market reacts negatively, you can decide to either make the necessary tweaks or scrap the idea altogether. While its never easy for a founder to let go of their baby, it is most definitely worth doing, considering the amount of time and money saved.

Most importantly, keep your costs as low as possible. For example, you dont need to purchase or rent an office for the time being. You can hire a remote team of freelancers, which also reduces employee expenses, so you dont have to hire them full-time and work from home until.

You should also take advantage of free tools like;

Google Drive for sharing and collaborating on files.

Skype and Slack for communicating with team members.

Zenefits handles all of your HR needs.

Due for financial tools and payments. (personal company)

That is by no means an extensive list. These are just a handful of free tools to help you get started.

Finally, if you need to secure more funding, there are other ways to raise money without dazzling investors. You can turn to your friends and family, obtain grants, enter a contest, or work a side gig until the startup takes off.

Bootstrapping isnt anything new either. Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak bootstrapped Apple in its early days. Im sure no one would argue with how successful that turned out for them.

The Importance of Traction

At some point, you will have to do some sort of funding for your startup if you want to scale properly. And thats when traction becomes your best ally.

Danny Wong of the Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC) in Forbes argues, the most important thing is traction (how far youve come on your own), whether its six weeks, six months or six years.

Crowdfunding is also a great way to raise funds. It allows you to raise non-binding capital while acquiring your first wave of early evangelists for your product or service.

In most cases, your company will get to the point where a large funding round is required to take your start-up to the next level. Until then, however, stay lean, mean, and bootstrap your way to the top!

By Chalmers Brown
Hunter Biden, left, travels with President Joe Biden to board Air Force One at Joint Base Andrews, Md., on March 26, 2021. (Olivier Douliery/AFP via Getty Images)

House Republicans Launch Probe Into Whether Biden Family Profiting Off White House

Documents sought after White House helped arrange Hunter Biden's art sales

House Republicans this week demanded documents relating to what they say are efforts by relatives of President Joe Biden to profit from their proximity to the White House.

Reports regarding President Bidens family members attempting to profit from their proximity to the White House have been disturbing and recurring, House Oversight Ranking Member James Comer (R-Ky.) and other Republicans wrote in a letter. Unfortunately, these reports of President Biden using his former official positions of public trust to swell the coffers of his family members are widespread, and any hope the pattern of family self-dealing would finally stop when he assumed the presidency has been dashed,

The group demanded documents from the White House Counsels Office and the National Archives and Records Administration.

They cited the White House helping craft an arrangement that will see Bidens son Hunter Biden sell pieces hes created for as much as $500,000, but not reveal the identity of the buyers.

The prices for these paintingsby someone with no formal training or history as an artistraise questions about whether the art is being offered for its merit or its connection to the White House, they wrote.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said of the arrangement in a recent press conference that after careful consideration, a system has been established that allows for Hunter Biden to work in his profession within reasonable safeguards.

Psaki said in January that White House policy dictates that Bidens name should not be used in connection with any commercial activities to suggest or in any way  they could reasonably be understood to imply his endorsement or support.

The lawmakers also noted that Bidens sister plans to publish a book about her time as the president whisperer and that the law firm employing Bidens brother, Frank Biden, promoted the relationship in an advertisement on the same day the president was inaugurated.

The potential pattern of using the White House for profit dates back to Bidens time as vice president, with Frank Biden in 2011 promoting the sibling relationship and Hunter Biden flying to China in 2013 with his father at the same time he was creating a Chinese private equity fund.

The lawmakers want documents and messages regarding the 2013 trip and a 2016 trip to Mexico, as well as the same regarding any security incidents on Air Force Two during the same trips.
How to Choose Your Physician and Find a Champion

Look for a physician that cares more about your well-being than guidelines, protocols, or algorithms

You could barely hear the footsteps down the hall, it was more like shuffling. Eventually, it grew louder and then came to a brief stop in front of my mothers hospital room door. There was no knock, just an entourage of physicians walking through. My mother was in one of her last battles against breast cancer. I was sitting in a pale green chair next to her. This was an almost daily ritual that hot summer of 1973 in Detroits Grace Hospital.

She had been sick for several years now and we all knew the end of the fight was near. In those days, most women died from breast cancer. Amazing what a generation of medical advances can do. Dr. Michael Sampson was the lead physician on those rounds and was my mothers physician. After some questions from the team, the group turned to leave and Sampson turned to me. Did you eat lunch yet?

I answered in as big a 16-year-olds voice as possible, No. He then asked my mother if he could take me with him to the doctors dining room. Yes, in those days, there was a real dining room in the hospital for doctors with real waiters. I walked with Sampson with my head high and chest out. I sat with him and his colleagues for almost an hour. He asked how I was doing, how I was holding up, and what if anything they could do to help me, not my mother, but me.

I had already decided I wanted to be a physician. I also knew I wanted to be a physician like Sampson, compassionate, caring beyond measure, and treating the whole patient, meaning his or her family. It has now been 40 years since I graduated from the University of Michigan School of Medicine, and I think back to that day more and more.

Maybe you notice, I have been using the term physician, and not doctor or health care provider. This is intentional. A physician is defined by Oxford dictionary as a person qualified to practice medicine. A doctor is a person qualified in almost any specialty, even Greek mythology or medieval history. A health care provider is anyone qualified with providing any level of health care to the patient.

This brings me to the topic at hand. How does someone choose their own physician? Medicine really is different than it was when I grew up, and even different from 10 years ago. Physicians currently take the Hippocratic Oath or the Oath of Maimonedes. The simplified version is that we take an oath of allegiance to our patient, that we are our patients champion.

There are some in health care who want the physicians oath to change to the oath of allegiance to the health of the state. That potential change reflects one of the major changes in the new version of medical carethe use of guidelines, algorithms, and protocols. These often seem to place the individual needs of our specific patient second to the needs of the health of the state. The logic goes, if the state is healthy then the patient will be as well.

Thats very different from an approach I learned long ago. I had a physician in medical school who taught us that when entering a patients hospital room, to look around the entire room. You can learn so much about a person by what is around them. Were there any family photos, get-well cards, flowers, or any touch of care in the room? In other words, look at the whole being, not just the illness. Thats a quality you want in your physician.

Choosing your primary care physician is critical in getting the best care possible for you and your family. Sadly, with some health care plans, you dont get a choice: you are assigned a health care provider. If youre not happy, complain until you get one you like and you can even demand a physician. Most of us do have some choice, so how do we decide? This goes back to finding your champion, one who cares about you.

Several years back, I had a patient. I had delivered her first baby four years prior to her move to a town about 20 miles away. So for her second baby, she decided to deliver near her new home and found a doctor she didnt particularly click with, but was convenient.

She was term and had been complaining about the baby moving much less than normal. The doctor did what the protocols told the doctor to do. They did a fetal monitor strip and an ultrasound. The baby looked good and she was sent home. She called the doctor that very night and again said she still didnt feel the baby moving much. She was told she was just tested a few hours ago, give it until tomorrow and not to worry. Later that evening, she went to the hospital in spite of the advice and was found to have a fetal demise (stillborn). The protocols werent wrong, the doctor was. This doctor (notice I did not use the term physician?) didnt listen, this doctor just followed the protocol or algorithm.

When searching for a physician, make sure you get a feel for this person. Is he or she someone you would trust with your life, or that of your spouse or children? Your physician should be your champion, not just your provider of guidelines. Remember my Sampson rule. It hasnt failed me yet. Your physician needs to care more about a patients well-being than about guidelines, protocols, or algorithms. He or she must listen. Its OK not to know everything, I sure as heck dont. Now I wish I could find Sampson and let him know just how much that 16-year-old boy learned from a simple lunch.

Dr. Peter Weiss has been a frequent guest on local and national TV, newspapers, and radio. He was an assistant clinical professor of OB/GYN at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA for 30 years, stepping down so he could provide his clinical services to those in need when the COVID pandemic hit. He was also a national health care adviser for Sen. John McCains 2008 presidential campaign.
A hero for all time: The statue of the 16th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, is seen inside the Lincoln Memorial in Washington on Feb. 12, 2009. (Karen Bleier/AFP via Getty Images)

In Need of Inspiration? Lets Visit Some Heroes From Our Past.

When we think of contemporary heroes, figures we admire for their courage when confronted by physical danger or who defend goodness and justice at great personal sacrifice, we may remember such people as the first responders who charged into the Twin Towers on 9/11 to rescue those trapped inside. Perhaps weve read of the exploits of the soldiers who performed bravely on the battlefields of the Middle East over the last 30 years and who often saved the lives of their comrades. Or maybe that woman who stuck by the truth she posted on Facebook despite all the hatred and calumny thrown at her comes to mind.

We may have witnessed heroism in our own community: the cop who drags a man from a burning vehicle, the mom who stands up alone before the school board to voice an unpopular opinion, or the teenager who defends his younger brother from a mob of bullies.

In the summer of 1970, I had the privilege of meeting a recognized hero, Captain Paul Bucha, winner of the Congressional Medal of Honor in Vietnam, at the United States Military Academy. Another cadet asked Capt. Bucha to tell us how hed won the medal. Bucha smiled at him and then said, Im a lover, not a fighter.

In my eyes, that mild refusal to answer added another layer of gold to Buchas medal.

But where do we turn if we still feel a longing for role models, exemplars who might stiffen our spines and serve as guiding lights in the face of hardship? Where else can we find men and women of virtue and honor who rouse our admiration and infuse us with courage?

Its simple, really. We step into the past.

Writer John Matteson focuses on five Americans associated with this December 1862 Battle of Fredericksburg in A Worse Place Than Hell.

Distant Bugles

In A Worse Place Than Hell: How the Civil War Battle of Fredericksburg Changed a Nation, biographer and Pulitzer Prize winner John Matteson focuses on five Americans associated with this December 1862 murderous clash between the armies of the North and the South. Future Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr., writers Walt Whitman and Louisa May Alcott, and army chaplain Arthur Fuller stood with the North; the young John Pelham served as an officer in the horse artillery for the South.

Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr., circa 1930, spent the duration of the Battle of Fredericksburg in a field hospital with dysentery. Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division. (Public Domain)

The day after receiving his discharge from the Union Army, Fuller acquired a musket and convinced his superiors to allow him to take part in the fighting in Fredericksburg. Walt Whitman and Louisa May Alcott worked as nurses in hospitals in the aftermath of this vicious fighting, and both, particularly Alcott, were broken in health from those duties and suffered what today would be called post-traumatic stress disorder. The previously twice-wounded Holmes spent the battle in a hospital tent, stretched out miserably sick with dysentery. Meanwhile, Pelham performed brilliantly during this engagement, holding up a large part of the Northern advance with two cannons. A few months later, he would fall on another Virginia battlefield.

Also included in this fine history are excellent portraits of Abraham Lincoln; Southern cavalier Jeb Stuart; Walt Whitmans brother George, who was one of the first to enlist in the Union Army in 1861; and other figures involved in the war in the last half of 1862.

The Confederate troops behind the stone wall during the Battle of Fredericksburg. Illustration by Allen C Redwood, from the Mechanical Curator collection. (Public Domain)

The sunken road on Maryes Heights, Fredericksburg, Va. Approximately 3,000 Georgians under Thomas R.R. Cobb lined up in multiple ranks behind the stone wall, and another 3,000 were atop the slope behind it, along with their artillery. (Public Domain)

New England Nurse

This company assembled by Matteson provides us with several individuals who might inspire us by their sacrifices during Americas bloodiest war.

Louisa May Alcotts health was never the same after her experiences as a Civil War nurse. Illustration of Alcott, circa 1860s. (Fotosearch/Getty Images)

The agonies and emotional scars suffered by Louisa May Alcott during this conflict, the consequence of her service as a nurse in Washington, D.C., were new to me. We remember Alcott today for her novels for young readersI used to teach Little Womenbut I had no idea of the trauma and illness she underwent in trying to help wounded and dying soldiers. She served only three months in the wards, fell ill with typhoid, and was accompanied home to Boston by her father, where for a time she was out of her head with fever and with the horrible memories of the blood and anguish shed witnessed in the infirmary. She never again fully recovered her good health.

As I made my way through Mattesons history, I found Alcotts courage and perseverance both heartrending and inspirational. In addition to the hardships she endured as a nurse, she was afflicted with bouts of depression in her earlier years, deeply affected by a sisters death, and worked in various jobs to help her mother make ends meet in the wake of her fathers poor financial decisions.

Here was a spirit from the past who had bravely faced a mountain of troubles and kept on climbing.

The Patriotic Artillerist

Today, some Americans heap contempt on those who fought for the Confederacy, in some cases tearing down statues of Southern soldiers and statesmen, or demanding that we erase their names from our history books. Heres the problem with such deletions: When we participate in this reckless destruction, or unthinkingly support it, we render ourselves blind to the nuances of history.

John Pelham is a case in point.

In a letter home after fighting at Manassas in the first major battle of the war, this young man from Alabama described the terrible carnage of the fighting that day: I have passed over the battle field and seen the mangled forms of men and horses in frightful abundance. Men without heads, without arms, and others without legs. All this I have witnessed and more, till my heart sickens; and war is not glorious as novelists would have us believe.

Major John Pelham (18381863), Confederate Army artillery officer in the American Civil War, pictured here in 1858. Alabama Department of Archives and History. (Public Domain)

But in the same letter, Pelham added: We are battling for our rights and our homes. Ours is a just war, a holy cause. The invader must meet the fate he deserves and we must meet him as becomes us, as becomes men.

Despite the cause for which he foughthis father was a slaveholder, a practice rightly considered an abomination todayPelham believed that essentials like our rights and homes are worth fighting and dying for. In a time when some of our own freedoms seem under assault, Pelham stands as a reminder that the protection of our natural rights may demand costly sacrifices.

A Man of God

John Matteson titles the chapter in which he introduces Arthur Fuller A Man of God.

Like John Pelham, Boston minister Arthur Fuller believed so passionately in a cause that he willingly laid down his life for it.

Engraved portrait of clergyman Arthur Buckminster Fuller, from the 1864 book Chaplain Fuller, Being a Life Sketch of a New England Clergyman and Army Chaplain. (Public Domain)

Frail and missing an eye from a boyhood incident, Fuller nonetheless volunteered to serve as a chaplain in the Union Army. He joined the 16th Massachusetts, traveled with them to Northern Virginia, and tried to keep up the spirits of the soldiers and tend their wounds, yet was eventually sent home to Boston because of his poor health. When he later returned to his regiment, it was to say goodbye. He joined the men just before the Battle of Fredericksburg, delivered a final sermon and a farewell, and then, for reasons we will never fully understand, and with his discharge papers in his pocket, he put on the coat of a staff officer, picked up a musket, and died in the first days fighting.

In one of the few of his sermons ever published, Fuller said: Faith which promotes a good life insures also a good death.  He who lives well always dies well.

As Matteson tells us, those who knew Chaplain Fuller debated whether he should have joined the battle that day. That point aside, to my way of thinking, there can be little doubt that the man underwent what he might have called a good death, sacrificing his life for a just cause in which he so fervently believed.

O Captain, My Captain

Walt Whitman revered Abraham Lincoln. Matteson tells us that the poet saw the president on several occasions, and he left behind two poems memorializing LincolnO Captain! My Captain! and When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard Bloomdwhich remain today in our anthologies and schoolbooks. Like Arthur Fuller, John Pelham, and hundreds of thousands of others, Abraham Lincoln died as a martyr to a cause.

American poet Walt Whitman (at about 50) revered Lincoln. From A Life of Walt Whitman. by Henry Bryan Binns. Published by Methuen & Co., 1905. (Public Domain)

A Worse Place Than Hell reminds us of the terrible burdens borne by Lincoln during his presidency, the agonizing decisions he had to make, and the political storms in his cabinet and in the government with which he had to contend. By combining sketches of Lincoln and his troubled presidency along with Whitmans impressions of him, Matteson gives his readers insights into Lincolns determination to persevere in his efforts to save the Union and later, to eradicate slavery.

When were going through tough times or beset by moral dilemmas, Lincoln can serve as an example of a man who kept to what he perceived as the right path.

Visitations and Vision

When I was a kid, a series called The Childhood of Famous Americans captured my attention. I dont know how many of those orange- or blue-bound biographies passed through my hands, ranging from Robert E. Lee to George Washington Carver to Betsy Ross, but I needed the lessons in leadership and life they taught, and their stories helped make me who and what I am today.

And even now, 60 years later and in my twilight years, I still find sustenance in reading about the great people from the past, their accomplishments, their struggles, and even their failures. Their stories encourage me to push ahead, to want to do the right thing, to become a better person. Louisa May Alcott, John Pelham, Chaplain Arthur Fuller, and a crowd of other Americanstheir words and deeds can deposit a bit of steel in my spine and remind me of the good in the world, the ideals worthy of a fight, and the causes deserving my support and commitment.

These visitors from the past can lead us into the future.

Jeff Minick has four children and a growing platoon of grandchildren. For 20 years, he taught history, literature, and Latin to seminars of homeschooling students in Asheville, N.C. He is the author of two novels, Amanda Bell and Dust On Their Wings, and two works of non-fiction, Learning As I Go and Movies Make The Man. Today, he lives and writes in Front Royal, Va. See JeffMinick.com to follow his blog.
A MSC Magnifica cruise ship, seen from San Maggiore's bell tower, carried by three tugboats arriving in the Venice Lagoon on June 9, 2019. (Miguel Medina/AFP via Getty Images)

Italy Bans Big Cruise Ships in Venice

Starting next month, ships over a certain size or weight or surpassing specific pollution levels can no longer ply the Giudecca Canal, a major sea artery in Venice, nor can they cruise the waters near St. Marks Square, the historic heart of the environmentally fragile city.

Until a permanent docking place can be chosen and developed for the big cruise ships, the liners will be allowed, for now, to pull up in Marghera, an industrial suburb of Venice.

The United Nations culture agency, which was considering declaring Venice an imperilled heritage site, on Wednesday hailed Italys ban on big cruise ships in the heart of the lagoon city.

UNESCOs director-general Audrey Azoulay wrote on Twitter that the Italian governments decision a day earlier to ban access by the mammoth liners as of Aug. 1 is very good news and an important step that significantly contributes to the safeguarding of this unique heritage site.

The Paris-based UNESCO last month had recommended adding Venice to its list of World Heritage in Danger sites.

The recommendation was expected to be pondered later this month during a UNESCO meeting in Fuzhou, China.

For years, protesters hoisting signs proclaiming No Big Ships have demonstrated in the city, sometimes taking to small boats to sail close to the cruise liners, which look like lumbering giants slicing through Venice to startled onlookers onshore.

This decision is very positive, because it leaves no space for exceptions or quibbles, said Tommaso Cacciari, leader of the No Big Ships activist group.

The government, in its Cabinet decree on Tuesday, allocated funds to compensate those whose tourist-heavy businesses might suffer from the ban, a decision that wasnt welcomed by No Big Ships.

Its one thing for compensation to go to workers, to those who have lost their jobs, to those who are struggling to reach the end of the month, and thats sacrosanct and right, Cacciari said.

But [it is absolutely wrong] to give public money to financial multinationals which, among other things, have one office in Miami, another in Switzerland, and so on? Cacciari added.

The decree also declared Venices Giudecca Canal and waterways near St. Marks a national monument in urgent need of safeguarding.

In a comment that could strike some as counterintuitive, among those praising the Italian governments move was a cruise industry trade association.

We welcome the latest decisions of the Italian government, said Francesco Galietti director for Italy of CLIA, the Cruise Lines International Association.

We are very happy that there will be a special commissioner with overriding powers and completely dedicated to setting up alternative dockings for approved ships in the vicinity of the Marghera area, added Galietti, explaining that the trade group had been advocating for an alternative to the Giudecca Canal for some 10 years.

As for any logistical problems the soon-to-take-effect ban might mean for imminent cruise itineraries, that wasnt immediately clear.

But, Galietti noted, this year, with the tourist season struggling to regain steam after COVID-19 lockdown travel complications, many companies didnt have Venice on their itineraries.
Taiwanese sailors salute the island's flag on the deck of the Panshih supply ship after taking part in annual drills at the Tsoying naval base in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, on Jan. 31, 2018. (Mandy Cheng/AFP via Getty Images)

Japanese Defense Paper Warns Over Taiwan Security for First Time

For the first time, Japan has explicitly warned about Taiwans security in its annual defense white paper on July 12.

The specific wording on the Taiwan issue in the 2021 defense document is very different from previous years, which carefully avoided any rhetoric that could provoke the Chinese communist regime.

The paper states that Taiwans stability is important for Japans security and for the international community, calling on officials to pay close attention to the situation with a sense of crisis.

It points out the overall military balance between China and Taiwan is tilting in Chinas favor, and the gap appears to be growing year by year.

Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China, is a sovereign, democratic country with a strong unofficial relationship and is a trading partner of the United States. However, the communist regime in Beijing sees it as part of Chinese territory and has recently increased its threats toward the island nations independence and security. It has become the norm for Chinese military aircraft to fly near Taiwan or intrude into Taiwans air defense identification zone.

No one should underestimate the Chinese peoples determination, will, and strong ability to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity, Chinese leader Xi Jinping warned the United States and other Western countries at the partys centennial commemoration last week.

Japan said in the paper that it would pay attention to the development of this situation.

As China rapidly enhances its military power, changes in the military power balance between the United States and China may possibly affect the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region, the document states. Therefore, it is necessary to pay more attention to the military movements of the two countries in the South China Sea and Taiwan.

It highlights the Chinese regimes continuing military expansion over the past 20 years, pointing out Chinas military expenditure is at least 16 times that of Taiwans, and the gap is expanding annually. The white paper said that Chinas military budget of $181.6 billion is already four times that of Japan.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Japans Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Japans Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi attend the 2+2 Meeting at Iikura Guest House in Tokyo on March 16, 2021. (Kim Kyung-Hoon/Pool/Reuters)

Japanese Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi emphasized the importance of cooperation between Japan and the United States in regards to regional security. He said that the Japanese Ministry of Defense would not only cooperate with the United States, but also with Australia, India, Canada, New Zealand, Britain, France, and other European countries, and would make more contributions to the maintenance of regional and international peace and security.

The paper states, The Alliance is the cornerstone of peace, security, and prosperity in the region, and we will strive to further strengthen its deterrence and response capabilities in order to further solidify the unshakable bond of the JapanU.S. Alliance.

Taiwan has welcomed Japans unusually direct statement, while the Chinese regimes Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said that the white paper is extremely wrong and irresponsible.

The white paper comes after recent commitments by Japanese defense officials to defend Taiwan together with the United States. Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi linked Taiwans security situation directly to that of Japan, and asked the United States to share details of plans to defend Taiwan.

Japanese Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Taro Aso said earlier this month that Japan is closely monitoring the situation in the Taiwan Strait.
Reality show doctor Grant Robicheaux, second from right, and his girlfriend Cerissa Riley, right, listen as Robicheaux's attorney Philip Cohen, left, speaks outside court in Newport Beach, Calif., following their hearing on new criminal charges involving five additional victims on Oct. 17, 2018. (Amy Taxin/The Associated Press)

Judge Grants Motion to Dismiss Charges for 2 Victims in Rape Case

SANTA ANAAn Orange County Superior Court judge on July 14 granted a request by prosecutors to dismiss charges related to two alleged rape victims in the case against a Newport Beach hand surgeon and his girlfriend, who are accused in drugging and sexually assaulting several women.

Prosecutors from the California Attorney Generals Office had said previously they wanted to chip down charges to one alleged victim in the case against Dr. Grant Robicheaux, 40, and Cerissa Laura Riley, 34. Robicheaux was charged initially with counts involving seven alleged victims and Riley with five.

With July 14s ruling, the doctor now faces charges involving five alleged victims and Riley for three alleged victims, with charges related to other alleged victims to be decided later.

The Attorney Generals Office took over prosecution of the case last year when another Orange County Superior Court judge removed Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzers office from the case.

Three of the alleged victims want to be removed from the case, according to prosecutors, and Judge Steven Bromberg said in his written ruling that he understands why they are asking to be removed from this case as alleged victims.

Bromberg noted that a declaration from investigator Jennifer Doss on why two of the women wanted out of the case was sparse, nevertheless, it is adequate and to the point. After two-and-a-half years, these ladies are entitled to leave this case if they so wish.

Bromberg granted the prosecutors motion to dismiss charges related to two of the women, but deferred ruling on the other woman at this time.

Doss said in court papers that after March 24, that womanreferred to as Jane Doe 2stated she wanted to think about it, and that Doss left her a voicemail, but it wasnt returned, so prosecutors assumed she wanted out of the case, according to Brombergs ruling. The judge said there were too

many unanswered questions about why Jane Doe 2 did not respond to prosecutors.

Doss declaration, which Bromberg ordered unsealed over the objections of prosecutors, indicated Jane Doe 2 said she did not want to be involved in the case any longer after a March 24 meeting with prosecutors, but then she also wished to think about her decision.

Doss said she made unsuccessful attempts to follow up with Jane Doe 2 twice more in April. Doss said she also left a message about a May 14 hearing, but still never heard from her.

Bromberg told prosecutors they must use due diligence at the highest level and attempt to contact Jane Doe 2 once again to determine if Jane Doe 2 truly wishes to no longer participate in the present case. He also ordered prosecutors to file a declaration under seal explaining why she no longer wants

to be in the case.

As for Jane Doe 3, Doss said she left a business card for her at what was her last known address.

That same day, I received a call from Jane Doe 3. She sounded upset, Doss said. The woman said she no longer resided in California, did not wish to receive any further correspondence regarding the case, and did not wish to be involved in the case.

Jane Doe 5, who has filed a civil lawsuit against the defendants, also told Doss that she wanted out of the criminal case.

Doss said she was scheduled to have a video-conference meeting with Jane Doe 5, and when she did not participate, the investigator followed up with a call and was told that the woman due to unforeseen family circumstances could not join the meeting and would be in touch to reschedule.

Doss tried to call her back on March 18 and 24 and then again on April 15 with no success, but then on April 26 the woman said she wanted out of the criminal case, the investigator said.

The judge said he would formally rule on prosecutors motion to whittle down the case to one alleged victim and some drug and weapons chargeswhich would mean dismissing all counts as to Jane Doe 2, 1 and 7at the next court hearing, which has yet to be scheduled.

At the last hearing, in June, attorney Matt Murphy told Bromberg that he was representing a new client in the case, a potential eighth alleged victim.

The case has gone through multiple unusual gyrations since it was filed in 2018. It became a flashpoint in the election between Spitzer and former Orange County District Attorney Tony Rackauckas, who Spitzer unseated.

Spitzer ordered an extensive review of the case and assigned two new prosecutors to it before deciding he would dump all of the charges against the pair.

Murphy, who represents five alleged victims, and attorney Michael Fell, who represents one of the alleged victims, objected and Orange County Superior Court Judge Gregory W. Jones denied the motion to dismiss the case and handed off the prosecution to the Attorney Generals Office last August, citing

the politics involved between Spitzer and Rackauckas as one of the main reasons.

District Attorneys Office investigator Jennifer Kearns, who was removed from the case, has filed a whistleblower lawsuit against the county, alleging she was retaliated against.
Douglas Jensen (C) speaks to U.S. Capitol Police officers inside the building in Washington on Jan. 6, 2021. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images)

Judge Releases Jan. 6 Protester From Jail, Notes Defendant Not Accused of Violence

A federal judge this week ordered a man accused of illegally entering the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 to be freed from jail, as the man is not facing charges related to violence.

Douglas Jensen, 41, donning a T-shirt promoting the QAnon movement, was among the first people to force their way inside the Capitol in January, according to court documents.

Jensen refused multiple orders by a uniformed Capitol Police officer to stop, place his hands up, and back up and was seen in video footage leading a crowd of followers inside the building, an FBI agent wrote in one filing.

When the officer ordered Jensen to stop, Jensen led the crowd toward the officer in a menacing manner, the agent said, citing video footage from the scene. The officer retreated and was ultimately able to stop the crowd with assistance from other officers.

Prosecutors wanted the judge to keep Jensen, a Des Moines, Iowa, resident who turned himself in on Jan. 8, in jail pending trial. They said Jensen, who has admitted to being in the Capitol, had a knife on him in the building. They also said Jensen admitted to chasing the Capitol Police officer and wanting to stop then-Vice President Mike Pence from presiding over the electoral count certification.

But U.S. District Judge Timothy Kelly, a Trump nominee, ultimately decided to order Jensen released after more than six months in confinement.

Kelly said deciding whether to free Jensen from jail pending trial was a close case.

The judge said Jensens actions during his confrontation of Capitol officer Eugene Goodman were deeply concerning and quite serious. But he noted that Jensen is not accused of toppling any barricades, damaging any property, or fighting with anybody at the Capitol.

That said, he clearly disobeyed Officer Goodman and other officers, and he did position himself near the front of a mob as he ran up the stairs toward Officer Goodman, the judge said. That may be some leadership, but only in the narrowest sense.

Kelly noted that a video captured Jensen referring to the Capitol building as the White House. The judge said he didnt believe that Jensen could have coordinated with others or planned an attack in advance when he had no basic understanding of where he even was that day.

Douglas Jensen in a file mugshot photograph. (Polk County Jail via AP)

Prosecutors said Jensens history, including being a self-described adherent of the QAnon conspiracy theory, weighed in favor of continued detention.

Defendants eagerness to travel more than 1,000 miles in hopes that he would hear [then-]President [Donald] Trump declare martial law, and his willingness to take martial law into his own hands when no such pronouncement came, says more about Defendants characteristics than any criminal history ever could, they wrote in a recent motion to keep Jensen detained.

The QAnon movement, which started on 4chan and 8chan message boards with a trickle of clandestine-sounding posts, often centers on the theme of big government plots to curb individual liberties and advance so-called deep state and globalist agendas. It grew into a large underground movement with a number of splinter groups and sometimes claims that members of the worlds social, economic, and political elites have engaged in child sex trafficking, abuse, and cannibalism.

Defense attorney Christopher Davis said his client went to the Capitol to observe what QAnon promoters have prophesized as The Storm, the day when Trumps enemies would be rounded up and executed.

He was in front of everyone for the now disclosed silly reason to get Q recognized for The Storm that was about to take place, Davis wrote in a court filing.

Jensens lawyer said his client became a victim of numerous conspiracy theories that were being fed to him over the internet by a number of very clever people, who were uniquely equipped with slight, if any, moral or social consciousness.

Six months later, languishing in a DC Jail cell, locked down most of the time, he feels deceived, recognizing that he bought into a pack of lies, Davis wrote.

Jensen faces charges including civil disorder and assaulting, resisting, or impeding a law enforcement officer.

Jensen was ordered released to the custody of his wife on July 14. He is slated to appear before the court on July 27. Until then, he was ordered to surrender his passport, stay away from Washington except for court hearings, and not possess a firearm or use alcohol or drugs. He is being restricted to home confinement with few exceptions.

Most of the more than 500 people who have been charged for alleged participation in the Capitol breach are free pending trial.

An appeals court earlier this year suggested a federal judge reconsider ordering Lisa Eisenhart and Eric Munchel, a mother and son, held on charges not related to violence and they were ordered released. But the same court last week upheld the pretrial detention of Timothy Hale-Cusanelli, largely based on his past history of using violent language.

In another case, QAnon adherent Jacob Chansley, seen in the Capitol shirtless with horns and face paint, was ordered held until trial.

Tom Ozimek and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A man sleeps outside the Homeless Help Desk kiosk in the Skid Row community of Los Angeles, Calif., on April 26, 2021. (Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images)

LA County Approves More Than $500 Million in Homeless Spending

LOS ANGELES, Calif.The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors on July 13 approved $527.1 million in funding for strategies to battle homelessness in fiscal year 2021-22, while expressing frustration over the rising numbers of people living on the street.

Despite the massive inflow of cash from Measure H and dozens of carefully crafted initiatives that make up the countys homeless initiative, visible encampments continue to grow and the situation on the street remains dire.

Supervisor Kathryn Barger highlighted one sobering statistic, noting that 739 homeless people died in Los Angeles County in the first six months of 2021.

That number, generated in response to Public Record Act requests from a KNX Newsradio reporter, amounts to a 20 percent increase over 2020 deaths.

This is a life-or-death situation, and it should encourage us to act with urgency and a new sense of direction, Barger said.

Efforts to count the homeless have been stymied by the pandemic and lockdown orders, but residents are growing increasingly vocal about massive encampments encroaching on public spaces countywide.

Supervisor Janice Hahn said she was worried about residents and other jurisdictions losing patience.

I am particularly concerned that more and more cities are moving to enforce their anti-camping laws, and there are more calls to criminalize our homeless, Hahn told her colleagues.

We have an L.A. City Council member thats trying to withdraw the whole city from the joint powers agreement of [the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority]. Judge [David] Carter is questioning our response to Skid Row. Our own sheriff is threatening to clear encampments, she said. The longer we take to solve this problem humanely and compassionately, the more likely people are to  turn to inhumane strategies.

Supervisor Holly Mitchell had offered a motion seeking to establish a group of Los Angeles city and county officials to rethink the structure of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, which manages funding for nearly 100 service providers countywide.

Though the board agreed more than a year ago to look at how LAHSA might be more effectively structured and a motion similar to Mitchells was proposed to the Los Angeles City Council by Councilman Mark Ridley-Thomas, Mitchell failed to garner the support of her colleagues.

Barger, Hahn and Supervisor Hilda Solis abstained from the vote, with Supervisor Sheila Kuehl, Mitchells co-author, providing the only other vote in favor.

Barger said the proposal did not go far enough and called for a complete overhaul.

I believe [LAHSA] is broken, and I believe we need to seriously reconsider the structure of this agency, Barger said, Putting a Band-Aid on something that needs major surgery is a disservice.

Barger said input from all 88 cities in Los Angeles County and the local Councils of Government was necessary to make a real difference, though Mitchells proposal did call for a mechanism to engage the COGs.

Kuehl pushed back against the idea that the increase in homelessness is LAHSAs fault and said more focus should be placed on what she sees as the root cause of new homelessnessa lack of affordable housing.

Since Measure H revenue became available in July 2017, the countys homeless services system has placed nearly 67,000 people in permanent housing and nearly 90,000 people in interim housing, though there is some double-counting of people who move from interim to permanent housing.

Project Roomkey and Project Homekey, which placed unhoused individuals in hotel rooms with supportive services, showed the countys ability to move at speed.

However, the boards discussion highlighted a high level of frustration as the county rolls out program after program, builds interim housing and creates new supportive services capacity without being able to stem the tide of homelessness.

An average of 207 people exit homelessness every day in Los Angeles County, but 227 more people fall into homelessness during the same period, according to numbers tracked by the Homeless Initiative.

Every year, over the last four years, we have dramatically scaled up the housing and services necessary to re-house those who are experiencing homelessness, and to end the inflow into homelessness caused by skyrocketing rents and evictions, Kuehl said. This crisis was decades in the making, and

every year we are committed to making more progress in building the system that will solve it.

Highlights of the nearly half-billion dollars in spending approved include $150 million for 5,441 interim housing beds, including emergency shelter beds as well as various types of bridge housing with services geared toward specific needs. About $132 million will be used for permanent supportive housing, and another $89 million is marked for rapid rehousing. The county will spend $39 million for street outreach teams, and $23 million for homeless prevention services such as rent subsidies.

The California Housing Partnership reports that by the end of 2020, L.A. County and local partner jurisdictions had helped developers and service providers leverage state and federal resources to create more than 120,000 affordable homes, a 4 percent increase from 2019 inventory levels. Yet the same report concluded that the county needs to add approximately 499,430 affordable homes to meet the current demand among renter households at or below 50 percent of the area median income.

Homelessness is a deeply rooted and complex societal problem that was decades in the making and cannot be fixed overnight, but Los Angeles County is pulling out all the stops to alleviate the crisis on our streets, said Cheri Todoroff, interim executive director of the Homeless Initiative.

Hahn said she wanted to see a detailed reevaluation of whats working and what isnt. That analysis, already in the works, is likely to come before the board in November, according to Todoroff.

More than 85 percent of the money to fight homelessness comes from Measure H, a quarter-cent sales tax approved by voters in 2017, and is supplemented by federal stimulus dollars and state grants, among other sources.

Todoroff said making sure current dollars are being used effectively is critical, but said the county would need additional support from the federal and state government to effectively meet the challenges posed by homelessness in L.A. County.
A view facing southward toward The Coast Inn from Main Beach in Laguna Beach, Calif., on Oct. 15, 2020. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

Laguna Beach Plastic Ban Is Set to Take Effect

A plastic ban in Laguna Beach, California, prohibiting single-use plastic food packaging and cutlery takes effect July 15.

The ban was unanimously approved by the city council in March as part of its Neighborhood and Environmental Protection Plan, intended to help mitigate visitor impacts on the city.

Single-use plastic food ware items will be prohibited from all Laguna Beach trails, parks, and beaches. Food and drink vendors will be forbidden from distributing single-use, takeaway plastic or polystyrene food packaging items, which includes bioplastics. The ban includes the use of plastic beverage straws, plastic stirrers, plastic cutlery, and plastic take-out bags.

The city has a good track record in working with local restaurants and businesses to implement previous programs to eliminate pollution, such as single-use plastic grocery bags, Laguna Beach spokesperson Cassie Walder told The Epoch Times.

Staff has contacted the majority of our local establishments, and they understand the value of maintaining a clean ocean environment and have been cooperative with prior efforts to eliminate litter.

Restaurants have access to a business toolkit that aims to help them more easily eliminate plastic package.

In exchange for typical single-use items, Laguna Beach is recommending that restaurants employ reusable materials whenever possible, or non-plastic alternatives such as materials made from paper, sugar cane, and bamboo. However, they should only be provided at a customers request, the city said.

As plastic single-use food ware items may be discarded as litter anywhere in town, they may end up in streets and gutters which convey pollutants to the ocean through the storm drain system, Walder said.

According to the city, the new ordinance supports its goal of diverting 95 percent of waste citywide from the landfill by 2030 and to maintain the health and safety of its beaches.

Plastic litter represents a significant source of ocean pollution, Walder said. The Legislative Analyst for California Assembly Bill 1884 determined that plastics comprise an estimated 60 to 80 percent of all marine debris and 90 percent of all floating debris.

Although the ban is fairly straightforward, food and beverage vendors may be able to receive a one-year exemption from the rule if theyre able to show that it would cause undue hardship on the business.

The entire Neighborhood and Environmental Protection Plan, which the plastic ban is a part of, is set to cost $2 million. It will be entirely funded by visitors through the citys parking and transient occupancy tax revenues.

Other parts of the plan that take effect on July 15 include the ban on feeding wild birds in city parks, a large-shade-structure ban on beaches to preserve sight lines, and a ban on storing bicycles on Main Beach and at Heisler Park. The city will expand its prohibition of personal property in public areas, and noncoastal community parks will close at 10 p.m.
Laguna Beach to Provide Its Own Utility Services

Laguna Beach, California, moved toward joining a community choice energy program (CCE) on July 13, with the goal of gradually replacing traditional power sources with green energy.

CCEs are locally controlled energy providers that take the place of existing energy providers such as Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas and Electric.

The CCE would still use existing infrastructure for the transmission and distribution of energy to residential homes. CCEs only regulate the purchasing of energy, whether it be renewable or fossil fuels.

Installing solar panels on homes is very costly for people, Mayor Pro Tem Sue Kempf said during the July 13 council meeting.

A lot of people dont have the money for it.  With CCE, we can hit up almost everybody in our community and get them on a renewable source, she said.

In looking at reduction of greenhouse gases, and working against some of our environmental challenges, this is one of the best ways to get at it, among other things.

The citys decision to create a CCE came just over a month after a CCE in Riverside County filed for bankruptcy.

Western Community Energy (WCE), a CCE consisting of seven cities, was formed in April 2020. Due to unprecedented levels of heat, electricity supplies were exhausted, costing the joint power authority (JPA) an additional $12 million in energy expenses.

Meanwhile, some residents havent been paying their utility bills during the pandemic, since no customers could be disconnected from their utilities under a state mandate.

Over the last year, delinquencies averaged 10-times higher than pre-pandemic industry standards and have cost WCE millions of dollars in added cost burden, WCE said in a statement.

Laguna Beach Councilman George Weiss said that although WCE filed for bankruptcy, it was the only JPA to do so. He said all other CCEs created over the last 10 years are still going strong.

The biggest CCE is Los Angeles; and in over two years, theyve managed to sequester $60 million in surplus money, Weiss told the council during the July 13 meeting.

Over the next few months, the city will look into various JPAs.

There are multiple JPAs the city could join, including the Orange County Power Authority, Cal Choice Energy Authority, Clean Power Alliance, and San Diego Community Power. Each has a different governance structure.

We need to see how these different CCEs can match up, Kempf said.

Jeremy Frimond, city senior administrative analyst, said there are currently 23 operational CCEs in the state.

If approved, residents opting into the CCE will be presented with a tier of options to select a proportion of their energy that comes from renewable sources.

Renewable options are currently more expensive than a traditional mix, Frimond told the council.

Residents will be automatically opted into the CCE. If residents choose to stay with their current provider, they must opt out of the CCE prior to a deadline, or otherwise pay an exit fee.

There would be a risk of bankruptcy if too many residents from any cities within the JPA opt out.

If there is significant opt out, this could leave an excess of supply over demand, Frimond said.

There are also financial risks in startup costs and long-term financing, he said.

The CCE wouldnt act as a general revenue stream for the city, rather it would be a powerful tool to be able to achieve the citys goals in reducing greenhouse gas emissions because CCEs can purchase more renewable energy than SoCal Edison offers, Frimond said.

He said that if 100 percent of the citys residents use only renewable energy within the CCE, then greenhouse gas emissions could be reduced by up to 20 percent within two to three years.

Frimond said a CCE allows for public participation, since a board is composed of local elected officials who hold public meetings where the public can weigh in on the rates, programs, energy sources, and so on.

The financial piece is marginal, and its really the renewable piece that would seem to be most beneficial, Mayor Bob Whalen said during the meeting.

Whalen said it wouldnt be feasible for the city to start a CCE without joining a JPA because of the size of the community.

He said the council needs to have a say on the JPA it joins, in order to maximize its decision-making influence.

I dont want to be a tail of a dog that goes in a different direction and we dont have any ability to weigh into it, he said.

The council will meet in November to discuss which JPA is most suitable for the city.
Tracy Stone-Manning listens during a confirmation hearing for her to be the director of the Bureau of Land Management, during a hearing of the Senate Energy and National Resources Committee on Capitol Hill, in Washington, on June 8, 2021. (Alex Brandon/AP Photo)

Lead Investigator Comes Forward, Says Bidens BLM Nominee Was Extremely Anti-Government and Actively Involved in 1989 Eco-Terrorism Incident

A retired criminal investigator for the Forest Service said in a letter Wednesday that President Joe Bidens nominee to lead the Bureau of Land Management was actively involved in the planning of a 1989 eco-terrorism incident.

The retired investigator said the nominee, Tracy Stone-Manning, was extremely difficult to work with; in fact, she was the nastiest of the suspects  She was vulgar, antagonistic and extremely anti-government.

The investigator said Stone-Mannings refusal to cooperate with his investigation set his case back by many years.

Stone-Manning received legal immunity from prosecution in 1993 to testify that she mailed an anonymous and threatening letter in 1989 warning that a local Idaho forest had been sabotaged with tree spikes.

Stone-Manning told the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee in May that she was never the subject of a criminal investigation.

The retired investigator said that is not true: She was aware that she was being investigated in 1989 and again in 1993 when she agreed to the immunity deal with the government to avoid criminal felony prosecution. I know, because I was the Special Agent in Charge of the Investigation.

A retired criminal investigator for the Forest Service who served as the lead investigator into a 1989 tree spiking case in Idaho revealed Wednesday that President Joe Bidens nominee to lead the Bureau of Land Management was actively involved in the planning of the eco-terrorism incident.

The investigator, Michael Merkley, said in a letter obtained by the Daily Caller News Foundation that Stone-Manning was extremely difficult to work with; in fact, she was the nastiest of the suspects during the initial stages of his investigation in 1989.

She was vulgar, antagonistic and extremely anti-government, Merkley said.

Merkley said that Stone-Manning refused to answer any questions when she was subpoenaed by a federal grand jury in 1989. Her refusal to cooperate with his investigation set the case back by many years, according to Merkely.

Tracy Stone-Manning listens during a confirmation hearing for her to be the director of the Bureau of Land Management, during a hearing of the Senate Energy and National Resources Committee on Capitol Hill, in Washington, on June 8, 2021. (Alex Brandon/AP Photo)

Eventually, after further investigation, I discovered that she had known all along who had perpetrated the crimes, he said.

Merkleys letter was addressed to Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chairman Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and the committees ranking member Sen. John Barrasso of Wyoming. The letter was first reported by Politico.

Merkley said he learned in December 1992 from the ex-girlfriend of one of the individuals who was later convicted for spiking the trees that Stone-Manning was the person responsible for mailing an anonymous and threatening letter to the Forest Service warning that the Idaho forest had been sabotaged with tree spikes.

The ex-girlfriend also recounted a conversation she had overheard wherein Ms. Stone-Manning along with other co-conspirators planned the tree spiking and discussed whether to use ceramic or metal spikes.

Merkley said that through the ex-girlfriends account it became clear that Ms. Stone-Manning was an active member of the original group that planned the spiking of the Post Office Timber Sale trees.

Merkley added that the ex-girlfriends testimony led a grand jury to send Stone-Manning a target letter informing her she was set to be indicted on criminal charges for her active participation in planning these crimes.

Stone-Manning told the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee in writing in May that she has never been the target of a federal criminal investigation, but her testimony before a federal grand jury in 1989 and during a criminal trial in 1993 ultimately led to the conviction of an individual who had sabotaged a local forest with tree spikes.

As previously reported by the DCNF, Stone-Manning received legal immunity from prosecution in 1993 to testify against the suspects in the tree-spiking incident. She said in court that the key suspect, John P. Blount, asked her to send the anonymous and threatening letter to the forest service on his behalf.

But Merkley said in his letter Stone-Manning was no hero. The retired investigator said that while she did provide testimony against her co-conspirators, during the criminal trial, she has not been forthright about the role she played in the incident.

Let me be clear. Ms. Stone-Manning only came forward after her attorney struck the immunity deal, and not before she was caught. At no time did she come forward of her own volition, and she was never entirely forthcoming, Merkley wrote. She was aware that she was being investigated in 1989 and again in 1993 when she agreed to the immunity deal with the government to avoid criminal felony prosecution. I know, because I was the Special Agent in Charge of the Investigation.

Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wy.) speaks to media as Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) (L) and Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) (R) look on, during a break in the impeachment trial of President Donald Trump at the Capitol in Washington on Jan. 29, 2020. (Charlotte Cuthbertson/The Epoch Times)

Barrasso, the ranking member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, said Merkleys letter proves that Stone-Manning actively collaborated with eco-terrorists and lied to his committee about her involvement in the incident.

I am grateful to the lead investigator for providing the committee with all of the facts of the case, Barrasso said in a statement to the DCNF. Not only did Tracy Stone-Manning collaborate with eco-terrorists, she also helped plan the tree spiking in Clearwater National Forest.

She has been covering up these actions for decades, including on her sworn affidavit to the committee, Barrasso added. This new information confirms that Tracy Stone-Manning lied to the committee that she was never a target of an investigation. The nominee has no business leading the Bureau of Land Management. President Biden must withdraw her nomination and if he does not, the Senate must vote it down.

Merkleys letter comes after all Republican members of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee came out Wednesday in a letter urging Biden to withdraw Stone-Mannings nomination over her involvement in the tree spiking incident.

Manchin, the committees chairman, has yet to reveal how he will vote on Stone-Mannings nomination, according to Politico.

The White House reiterated its support for Stone-Manning after being sent a copy of Merkleys letter.

Tracy Stone-Manning is a dedicated public servant who has years of experience and a proven track record of finding solutions and common ground when it comes to our public lands and waters, a White House official told the DCNF. She is exceptionally qualified to be the next Director of the Bureau of Land Management.

By Andrew Kerr

From The Daily Caller News Foundation

Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience. For licensing opportunities of our original content, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.
(L-R) Doug Logan, CEO of Cyber Ninjas, the firm leading Arizona's vote audit in Maricopa County, gives testimony on preliminary findings at a Senate hearing, sitting beside Arizona Senate audit liason Ken Bennett, and Ben Cotton, the founder of digital security firm called CyFIR LLC, in Phoenix, Ariz., on July 16, 2021. (Allan Stein/Epoch Times)

Maricopa County Auditors Seek Ballot Envelope Images, Splunk Logs After Discovering Discrepancies

Teams conducting a forensic audit in Arizonas largest county said on July 15 that they want more items to complete their review, which has turned up several major discrepancies.

The auditors, led by Florida-based Cyber Ninjas, want ballot envelope images, router images, splunk logs, hard drives that contain information about the 2020 election in Maricopa County, and details on the countys policies and procedures as they try to complete a review that started nearly three months ago.

That information could help clear up issues that have been identified.

Doug Logan, CEO of Cyber Ninjas, told senators at the Arizona state Capitol during a hearing that auditors could find no record of the county sending more than 74,000 mail-in ballots. He also said auditors found approximately 18,000 people voted but were removed from voter rolls soon after the election, 11,326 people who were not on the voter rolls on Nov. 7, 2020, but appeared on the rolls on Dec. 4, 2020, and 3,981 people who voted after registering after Oct. 15, 2020.

Ben Cotton, CEO of CyFIR, a subcontractor working on the audit, said the analysis of the election management system and network uncovered severe cybersecurity problems, including that antivirus programs werent up to date.

The hearing came after Arizona Senate President Karen Fann, whose Republican caucus authorized the audit late last year, said the auditors ballot count produced a different number from the countys count.

Arizona State Sen. Sonny Borrelli (R) and State Rep. Mark Finchem hear testimony during a Senate hearing on the Maricopa County ballot audit in Phoenix, Ariz., on July 16, 2021. The empty row of seats were reserved for Democrat legislators. (Allan Stein/Epoch Times)

Logan said the discrepancies with mail-in ballot records should trigger a canvassing proposal that was put on hold under pressure from the Department of Justice.

Based on the data were seeing, I highly recommend canvassing, because it is the one way to know for sure whether some of the data were seeing, if its real problems or whether its clerical errors of some sort, he said.

The July 15 testimony, given in front of Fann and Sen. Warren Peterson, chairman of the state Senates Judiciary Committee, immediately triggered a push to conduct a new election in the state, where President Joe Biden beat former President Donald Trump by about 10,500 votes.

Arizona State Sen. Warren Petersen (R), left, and Karen Fann (R) hear testimony during a hearing on the Maricopa county audit in Phoenix, Ariz., on July 15, 2021. (Allan Stein/Epoch Times)

I call for the Biden electors to be recalled to Arizona & a new election must be conducted. Arizonas electors must not be awarded fraudulently & we need to get this right, Arizona Sen. Wendy Rogers, a Republican who has been keeping close tabs on the audit, said on Twitter.

Maricopa County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jack Sellers, a Republican, said in a statement after the hearing that the auditors were incompetent.

At todays briefing, the Senates uncertified contractors asked a lot of open-ended questions, portraying as suspicious what is actually normal and well known to people who work in elections. In some cases, they dropped bombshell numbers that are simply not accurate. What we heard today represents an alternate reality that has veered out of control since the November General Election. Senate leadership should be ashamed they broadcast the half-baked theories of the Deep Rig crowd to the world today, he said. To senate leaders I say, stop accusing us of not cooperating when we have given you everything qualified auditors would need to do this job. Finish your audit, release the report, and be prepared to defend it in court.

A county spokesperson told The Epoch Times via email it was unclear which data sets the auditors were referring to for some of their allegations. The approximately 74,000 ballots probably refers to voters who went in person to vote centers before Election Day, he said.

Even though they are voting in person, their ballots are treated the same as those mailed in  sealed in an envelope and signed by the voter, the spokesman said.

Fann told reporters after the hearing that she would be talking to attorneys later Thursday or on Friday to figure out the best way to obtain the items auditors want.

Members of the public gather for an Arizona Senate hearing on the vote audit in Maricopa County in Phoenix, Ariz., on July 15, 2021. (Allan Stein/Epoch Times)

Do we go back to court or do they specifically comply with the original subpoena? Maybe some of this can be done before the request and we can get some of that information, she said. It would be great if Maricopa County would help us with this request and we can move forward.

But the county spokesman indicated more subpoenas would be required to get the items, even the routers.

We will have a response about other demands if and when Senate leadership produces more subpoenas, he said.

Routers or router images were included in subpoenas the Arizona Senate sent last year that were confirmed legally valid by a judge after the county took the matter to court. The county is still refusing to provide the auditors access to the subpoenaed materials.

The county agreed to comply with the subpoenas after the late February ruling, but called for the audit to end less than a month after it had begun. County officials have noted that a hand recount and a risk-limiting audit performed at their behest uncovered no discrepancies. They voted this week to replace the machines the auditors examined, agreeing with Democrat Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs that they cant ensure that the machines will perform properly in future elections.

Fann noted that she wanted the audit done at county facilities, but was forced to have the audit teams conduct it offsite when the county declined her request. She also said senators have never implied or inferred that the discrepancies were caused by intentional misdoings.

It is unfortunate that the county has been recalcitrant, Peterson said at the hearing. That doesnt breed trust, it slows things down, it makes things difficult.

He noted that if auditors dont receive the requested items, theyll produce an incomplete report.

Allan Stein contributed to this report.
People gather at the Michigan State Capitol for a "Stop the Steal" rally in support of President Donald Trump in Lansing, Mich., on Nov. 14, 2020. (Jeff Kowalsky/AFP via Getty Images)

Michigan GOP Official Who Blamed Trump for Election Loss Resigns

A Michigan Republican Party official who had blamed former President Donald Trump for losing the 2020 presidential election has resigned.

Jason Roe, who became the executive director of the Michigan GOP in February, told news outlets he stepped down and had informed Chairman Ron Weiser.

I resigned my position as executive director and the reasons will remain between me and Chairman Weiser, Roe said. Weve built an amazing team and I know they will be very successful in 2022. I look forward to helping however I can.

Former and current Trump spokespersons didnt immediately comment on the resignation.

In November 2020, Roeat the time a Republican strategisttold Politico that Trump retains a hold that is forcing party leaders to continue down the path of executing his fantasy of overturning the outcomeat their own expense.

Frankly, continuing to humor him merely excuses his role in this. The election wasnt stolen, he blew it. Up until the final two weeks, he seemingly did everything possible to lose. Given how close it was, there is no one to blame but Trump, he added.

In another interview in May, Roe doubled down on his comments, claiming Trump was seemingly doing everything he could to lose a winnable race.

Trump received 232 electoral votes to President Joe Bidens 306, losing several key swing states that he had won in 2016. Trump lost Michigan by more than 150,000 votes after beating Hillary Clinton there by about 11,000 votes four years earlier.

Roes remarks prompted Republican delegates to call on party leaders to oust him.

Weiser defended Roe.

While there are a few activists who want to shrink our party and are focused on fighting with other Republicans, my team is focused on growing our party and fighting our true opponents, the Democrats, he said in a statement to news outlets. That is where our focus will remain, and Id encourage everyone to channel their frustration toward winning in 2022, not attacking each other. The Democrats are the only ones who benefit.

Debra Ell, a GOP organizer who helped organize the ouster effort, said in a statement that she believes Roe was fired.

This is just the beginning of the RINO Hunt, she said, referring to Republicans in Name Only.

He was so arrogant to blame the 2020 election loss on our Republican president, not the Democrats, and cited there was no fraud. So hes calling out our president, hundreds of affidavits from Republicans who were there and now Republican legislators and candidates who say differently, she wrote.

After Roes resignation, Weiser said the official did a tremendous job putting together a team and getting us ready for 2022.

We wish him nothing but the best and know he will be an asset to Republicans in Michigan and all over the country this cycle and for years to come, he said.
Rapper Nipsey Hussle performs at the Palladium in Hollywood, Calif., on Feb. 15, 2018. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times/TNS)

Nipsey Hussle Dis Eyed as Possible Motive in Aspiring Rappers Murder Captured on Instagram Live: Police

By Nancy Dillon

From New York Daily News

An aspiring southern California rapper shot to death during an Instagram Live last week may have been targeted due to an alleged dis against the late rapper Nipsey Hussle, a police official said Tuesday.

Zerail Rivera, who went by the name Indian Red Boy, was murdered in his vehicle around 4 p.m. Thursday by an unidentified assailant who walked up and opened fire in the 14100 block of Chadron Avenue in Hawthorne, the official confirmed to the Daily News.

Video of Rivera, 21, talking to an associate on Instagram as the shots hit him in the head has since gone viral on YouTube.

People familiar with the rapper and his entourage later posted on social media that Rivera was connected to the recent defacement of a street mural honoring Hussle.

Its one of the leads were looking into that this was retaliation for one of his fellow gang members defacing the mural. It certainly is one of the leads were looking at, Hawthorne Police Lt. Ti Goetz told The News.

He also posted some videos of himself dissing other neighborhoods, Goetz added. We havent narrowed down any one particular line of inquiry. Were exploring all the different avenues.

2021 New York Daily News. Visit at nydailynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Students at Cranebrook High School listen to a guest speaker on Feb. 8, 2019, in Sydney, Australia. (Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

NSW Lockdowns Disrupt HSC Trial Exams

Year 12 students undertaking their Higher School Certificate (HSC) trial exams will face disruptions after the New South Wales government announced a two-week extension to home learning on Wednesday.

The NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) said that schools could decide whether to postpone trial exams from July 26 to Aug. 9 or provide suitable alternative assessment tasks.

Schools will need to advise students of their chosen arrangements for the trial exams.

I want to say categorically that students will have the opportunity to receive the HSC this year, NESA CEO Paul Martin said. Students should continue to focus on their studies and prioritise looking after their wellbeing.

The exams are run independently by schools based on guidelines and form a substantial part of a students final HSC mark.

Martin said the NESAs main concerns were for the HSC oral language exams scheduled for July 31 and dance exams that were due to start on Aug. 2.

We will issue further advice about these exams mid-next week, Martin said. At this stage, we are planning for the drama, music, and written exams and the marking of major works and projects to go ahead on schedule in a COVID safe way.

Greg Whitby, the executive director of the Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta, said the move to delay the trials was sensible.

This is a common-sense decision that is all about supporting the wellbeing and learning of the class of 2021, Whitby told Sydney Morning Herald. I hope that decision-makers continue to consider the needs of these diligent and resilient young people.

Students attend a class at Alexandria Park Community School in Sydney, Australia, on May 4, 2016. (AAP Image/Paul Miller)

The NSW lockdown, which was initially planned for two weeks, has been extended until at least July 30.

We need to get down to as close to zero as possible, Premier Gladys Berejiklian said, referring to the COVID-19 community-acquired cases on Wednesday.

NSW Education Minister Sarah Mitchell had previously tried to reassure students and was confident that lockdown affected students would not be disadvantaged.

To our HSC students, I say, please stay calm, focus on your studies and look after each other, Mitchell said.

Some schools have already announced that their trials would go ahead as planned while following health advice.

All public schools in the Shoalhaven have not changed their plans and are moving ahead and following COVID safe practices, a spokesperson for the Department of Education said.

A delay in trials means students will have less time to prepare for HSC exams that are scheduled to begin on Oct. 12.
NTD Evening News Full Broadcast (July 15)

An Audit company says 72,000 more Arizona ballots were received than requested, Black Lives Matter accuses U.S. economic sanctions of being at the heart of Cuban crisis, and South Africa has deployed 25,000 troops in an effort to stop the looting and rioting.
New Zealand Army personal guard the front of a hotel in Auckland's CBD which is used as a COVID-19 isolation facility on Sept. 7, 2020, in Auckland, New Zealand. (Fiona Goodall/Getty Images)

NZ Military Takes Down Winning Essay That Criticises Wokeism

The New Zealand (NZ) army has removed a winning essay from a defence force writing competition because it argues against woke culture within the army.

Originally published on an NZ army website on July 1 along with winners of other categories, the essay titled Can the Army Afford to go Woke, Benign Social Progress or National Security Threat argues that the postmodern concepts of diversity and inclusion are antithetical to the Armys ethos and values.

The essay was removed five days later and replaced by a message from the Chief of Army Major General John Boswell saying he had asked for the essay to be taken down.

I made this decision when it became clear that publishing it was being seen as an endorsement of the views contained within it, which could not be further from the truth, Boswell said. This essay was chosen as the winner of the Private Soldiers category solely because it was the most well-written of the submissions received within that category.

Minister of Defence Peeni Henare told Newstalk ZB that he believed it was important to make sure that this incident did not happen again.

He also revealed he wrote to Defence Chief Air Marshall Kevin Short about his expectations of the defence force.

Were better than that, and have values that dont align with the essay, Henare told Short.

Minister Peeni Henare speaks to the media during a Labour press conference at Parliament on Nov. 2, 2020, in Wellington, New Zealand. (Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images)

However, the opposition parties, the Nationals and ACT, have both criticised the Ardern government for the removal, with the National partys defence spokesman Chris Penk arguing if the essay had been chosen on merit, then the Ardern government excuse was not a reason it should have been removed.

Meanwhile, ACT Party leader David Seymour said that while the essay would unlikely win a Pulitzer prize, the army needed a culture that allowed healthy discussion.

The New Zealand Army used to fight for free speech, now its fighting against it, Seymour told the NZ Herald.

A spokesman for Henare told NewsHub on July 8 that the minister was not involved in the decision to remove the essay and explained it had been taken down before he and the Defence Chief spoke.

The author, known as Mr. N Dell, explains that, unlike other entries, his work was entirely an opinion piece and did not contain any sources.

The essay begins by acknowledging his awareness of the backlash and real-world consequences to authors of content with similar views.

However, I suspect that many of the arguments I put forward will resonate with the quiet majority, especially in the military, Dell writes.

He then outlines how a diversity of opinion, class, and background should be more important to the army than diversity in race, gender, and sexual orientation.

Every man-hour that is spent on cultural awareness training or similar programmes is a man-hour that is not spent training for combat or monitoring our enemies, he said.

Dell ends by saying it would be an embarrassment for the army to become involved in culture wars, especially to veterans and to the memory of those who paid the ultimate price.

The Army should stick to fighting real wars, he said.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine gives his victory speech after winning the Ohio gubernatorial race at the Sheraton Capitol Square in Columbus, Ohio, on Nov. 6, 2018. (Justin Merriman/Getty Images)

Ohio Governor Signs Bill Banning Schools From Mandating COVID-19 Vaccines

The vaccines would have to receive the full FDA authorization under the law

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed legislation into law on July 14 preventing public schools and universities from requiring people to receive a COVID-19 vaccine that hasnt been fully approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus vaccines manufactured by Modera, Pfizer, and Johnson & Johnson are being administered under the FDAs emergency use authorization. The vaccines havent been fully approved by the agency, although some federal officials have suggested in recent weeks that they will be by the end of 2021.

The law, House Bill 244, will take effect in 90 days and specifically targets COVID-19 vaccines, prohibiting public schools, universities, and colleges from forcing an individual to receive a vaccine for which the United States Food and Drug Administration has not granted full approval. However, by the time the law goes into effect in mid-October, most public school and college students will be back in class.

DeWine, according to local reporters at the scene of the signing, didnt offer any comments on the law. But on July 13, the Republican governor called on the FDA to move the COVID-19 vaccines from emergency use authorization to full approval.

It is past time for the FDA to take into account that hundreds of millions of people have received these vaccines, and move it from an emergency basis over to a regular basis, DeWine said. I would just plead with them to do that. Its very, very important. Lives are, frankly, at stake. If they will do that, it wont convince everybody, but there are people out there we know who will be convinced if thats done.

In order for a drug to receive full FDA approval, more stringent testing and trial studies are required.

The governor argued that the fact that COVID-19 vaccines are still being administered en masse under the FDAs emergency use authorization is a reason why people are hesitant to receive them.

Democrats in Ohio said they opposed DeWines signing of the bill into law.

I am disappointed by Governor DeWines decision to sign House Bill 244 into law. Public schools and universities in Ohio should be able to create policies to keep their students and employees safe, Ohio Senate Democratic Caucus Leader Kenny Yuko wrote on Twitter.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford announces that schools will not resume-in-class learning until September during a press conference at Queen's Park in Toronto on Wednesday, June 2, 2021. (The Canadian Press/Nathan Denette)

Ontarios Math Curriculum Fiasco Should Serve as a Cautionary Tale to All Politicians

Commentary

In 2018, Premier Doug Fords Progressive Conservatives won a resounding majority in the Ontario provincial election. This gave them a strong mandate to implement their campaign promises.

One promise was to overhaul the provincial math curriculum. Specifically, Ford promised to scrap discovery math and replace it with a strong back-to-basics curriculum.

Fords pledge was both clear and unambiguous.

Unfortunately, Ford and his ministers are finding out the hard way that managing education is a lot harder than campaigning. Despite rolling out a new math curriculum with some notable improvements, Fords government has found itself caught in a trap laid by his opponents.

These opponents, however, were not the usual suspectsopposition politicians, hostile journalists, or organized lobbyists. Rather, the Ford government was tripped up by its own department officials and a bevy of education consultants. Judging by the language used in the new curriculum, the curriculum writers werent on the same page as the government.

For example, the new Grade 9 math curriculum contained bizarre statements about the allegedly racist nature of traditional mathematics.

Mathematics has been used to normalize racism and marginalization of non-Eurocentric mathematical knowledges, and a decolonial, anti-racist approach to mathematics education makes visible its historical roots and social constructions, stated the curriculum.

Specifically, the curriculum said that it was important to take an anti-racist and decolonial approach to math instruction. The curriculum even challenges the belief that mathematics is an objective discipline. Obviously, statements like these made a mockery of Fords back-to-basics pledge.

After substantial negative publicity, Education Minister Stephen Lecce had these statements removed from the Grade 9 math curriculum. Unfortunately, the damage was already done. Progressive educators are furious at the Ford government for taking these statements out, while traditional conservative supporters are upset at the Ford government for approving them in the first place.

Its the ultimate lose-lose situation, and the Ford government has only itself to blame. Either the education minister knew what his curriculum writers were doing and did nothing to stop them, or he was woefully ignorant of what was happening in his own department. Neither option looks good for the minister.

Of course, this problem should not have come as a surprise. Not only is there strong support for discovery math among the Ontario education establishment, but there is also a significant push towards incorporating the tenets of critical race theory in previously objective subjects such as math.

This sentiment is certainly not limited to Ontario or even to Canada. Earlier this year, the Oregon Department of Education sent an email to its teachers urging them to enrol in a virtual course titled A Pathway to Equitable Math Instruction. This course told teachers to stop equating mistakes with wrongness and suggested that a focus on getting the right answer will perpetuate white supremacy culture.

Thus, what started out as a well-meaning, but misguided, discovery approach to math instruction has morphed into an all-out assault on the very nature of mathematics. Its tough to fight for including the standard addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division algorithms in the curriculum when those same algorithms are dismissed as relics of white colonialism.

The reality is that the Ford government cant trust its own department officials to write a new math curriculum that would reflect the governments own priorities. If real change is to happen, the Ford government is going to have to look outside the education establishment.

Fortunately, there are math experts who could help the Ford government. For example, the Western Initiative for Strengthening Math Education (WISE Math) was founded a decade ago by several math professors in Western Canada. WISE Maths website has plenty of freely available resources that the Ontario government could use.

Another helpful organization is JUMP Math. Founded by mathematician John Mighton, JUMP Math produces K-8 math resources that effectively combine a back-to-basics approach with lots of creative problem-solving. Despite its documented success at helping students learn math skills, it has long been dismissed by progressive educators.

Ford and Lecce have a decision to make: Either they keep entrusting the math curriculum to their current department officials and education consultants, or they turn to experts who actually agree with their governments back-to-basics priorities.

Ontarios math curriculum fiasco should serve as a cautionary tale to all politicians across the country. Either you take charge and run your education department, or the department will simply run you.

Michael Zwaagstra is a public high school teacher, a senior fellow with the Frontier Centre for Public Policy, and author of A Sage on the Stage: Common Sense Reflections on Teaching and Learning.



Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau makes an aerospace economic announcement as President and Chief Executive Officer of CAE Inc. Marc Parent looks on July 15, 2021 in Montreal. (The Canadian Press/Ryan Remiorz)

Ottawa Announces $440 Million for Quebec Aerospace Industry

MONTREALPrime Minister Justin Trudeau is announcing up to $440 million in federal funding for Quebecs aerospace industry.

Trudeau told a news conference today in Montreal that coupled with money from Quebec, the package of government aid for the key sector of the provinces economy will total as much as $693 million.

The prime minister says the funding will subsidize aerospace companies operating in the province such as Bell TextronCanada, CAE, and Pratt & Whitney Canada.

He says the investments will also go toward green-aviation projects and clean technologies and will create or support 12,000 jobs and make internships available to more than 6,200 students.

Trudeau is also announcing an investment of $92.5 million over three years in Quebec under the Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative, which is a fund dedicated to help small and medium-sized aerospace firms.

He says the recovery program is ready to start receiving applications today.
Committee chair Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.) gavels in a hearing of the House Oversight Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington on June 7, 2021. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Congressional Democrats Launch Probe Into Arizona 2020 Election Audit

Democrats on the House Oversight and Reform Committee on Wednesday launched a probe into Florida-based cybersecurity firm Cyber Ninjas, a private company hired by the Arizona Senate to oversee an independent full audit of ballots cast in Maricopa County, Arizona, in the 2020 election.

House Oversight Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.) and Rep. Jamie Raskin, (D-Md.) said they are probing whether the company is working to reverse the result of a free and fair election for partisan gain.

In a letter (pdf) to the Cyber Ninjas CEO Douglas Logan, the pair asked for documents related to the audit of Arizonas most populous county, including information about how it is being funded. They are also asking for any and all communications between the cybersecurity firm and former President Donald Trump or his allies.

Americans right to vote is protected by the Constitution and is the cornerstone of our democratic system of government, Maloney and Raskin wrote.

The Committee is seeking to determine whether the privately funded audit conducted by your company in Arizona protects the right to vote or is instead an effort to promote baseless conspiracy theories, undermine confidence in Americas elections, and reverse the result of a free and fair election for partisan gain, they added.

The Democrats expressed concern over Cyber Ninjas participation in the audit, noting its apparent lack of experience in conducting election-related audits, citing press reports from CBS News, the Slate, and The Washington Post that the company engaged in sloppy and insecure audit practices that compromised the integrity of ballots and voting equipment.

One of the press reports had cited only the opinions of a local Democrat politician and a security expert, both of whom formed their conclusions based on a video prepared by a local news channel, as evidence for their comments about the audit. A judge ruled in April that the reports did not provide substantive evidence of breaches or threatened breaches of voter privacy.

Read More Firm Overseeing Arizona Election Audit Says Court Released Security Plan to Public

Maloney and Raskin also referred to a number of additional press reports describing sloppy work practices and mismanagement by Cyber Ninjas, including that ultraviolet light that could potentially damage the ballots were use for inspection by contractors.

Such reports raise serious questions about your ability to lead impartial work related to the election, the lawmakers said.

The Committee is particularly concerned that your companys actions could undermine the integrity of federal elections and interfere with Americans constitutional right to cast their ballot freely and to have their votes counted without partisan interference, they wrote.

Cyber Ninjas, Arizona Senate President Karen Fann, and former Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett, a Republican serving as the audits liaison, did not respond to requests for comment.

The Democrats asked Logan to hand over the requested information by July 28.

Logan told reporters in April that continuous livestreaming from cameras around Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum, where the audit was taking place, helped provide accountability. Cameras above tables would capture everything taking place, he added.

A big part of the audit was a hand recount. Thats something every American can understand, Logan said.

When we have all sorts of technology involved, whos to say whats running that tech, and how it messes with everything. But everyone can understand a sheet of paper and a count with it. And we want this audit to be something that every single American can believe in, he said.

Fann, a Republican, has also defended the audit.

Im confident because its not just them, she said this week, referring to the group of private companies being led by Cyber Ninjas in the audit. Everybody keeps just counting on them, when actually, they are working with a number of other contractors that have experience in audits and in their expertise in their own fields  This is a joint effort.

Fann previously told The Epoch Times that senators had been told by Cyber Ninjas that the auditors would report on the total cost of the operation after the audit is complete and that they would comply with federal reporting requirements.

Zachary Stieber contributed to this report.
Ballots cast in the 2020 general election are examined and recounted by contractors working for Florida-based company, Cyber Ninjas, at Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Phoenix, Ariz., on May 6, 2021. (Matt York/Pool/AP Photo)

Pennsylvania County Refuses Participation in New 2020 Election Audit

At least one of three counties targeted for a forensic investigation of Pennsylvanias 2020 presidential election has said it will not allow access to its voting machines.

Pennsylvania Sen. Doug Mastriano, chair of the Intergovernmental Operations Committee, sent letters to election officials in three Pennsylvania counties, Philadelphia, York, and Tioga, requesting access to voting machines and information to be used as evidence in a forensic analysis of the 2020 election.

Tioga County Commissioners decided not to provide access after receiving a directive from the Pennsylvania Department of State ordering county boards of elections not to provide any access to third parties seeking to examine the systems or system components.

It further warned that if counties do allow access, the voting equipment will be considered no longer secure or reliable to use in future elections. The department would decertify the expensive election equipment and counties would have to buy new voting machines on their own.

Weve been given the directive that we cannot give access or they will decertify our machines, Tioga County Solicitor Christopher Gabriel told the Epoch Times. The state did two audits after the election. Nothing of significance was found.

York and Philadelphia counties have not made their intentions public yet; each county has until July 31 to respond in writing to the request for access.

The Intergovernmental Operations Committee has not received a formal written response indicating refusal to comply from any of the three counties who received letters from the committee, Mastriano said Thursday in a written response to the Epoch Times. We intend to move forward with our plan to investigate these counties.

We do have grave concerns that the Wolf Administration is continuing to weaponize the State Department just like they did in 2020. In this case, the department is being used to intimidate county officials and obstruct a Senate-led forensic investigation of the 2020 and 2021 elections, Mastriano said. This threat, disguised as a directive to all counties in Pennsylvania, is an attack on the autonomy of local officials and the General Assemblys power to review, investigate, and legislate in matters within its legislative authority, which includes Pennsylvanias election system. The Legislature has clear authorityboth statutorily and constitutionallyto provide oversight and issue subpoenas.

Mastriano again questioned the authority of the Department of State to enforce such directive through the acting secretary, Veronica Degraffenreid, who has yet to go before the Senate to be officially confirmed.

Pennsylvania Democratic Attorney General Josh Shapiro said in a tweet that the effort is not a real audit, but a pet project of one man.

If this state senator goes forward and issues a legal subpoena, that would be litigated, Shapiro said in a media interview. Im confident we would win the litigation, protect the will of the people and protect the taxpayers of Pennsylvania, who at the end of the day, would not only suffer privacy loss, but millions of dollars in cost.
Ships await to come ashore at The Port of Los Angeles, in Long Beach, Calif., on Jan. 12, 2021. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

Port of Los Angeles Reports Busiest June on Record

LOS ANGELESThe Port of Los Angeles announced July 14 that last month was its busiest June on record and the port moved 27 percent more cargo than the previous June.

The port processed 876,430 20-foot equivalent units last month, closing the 2021-22 fiscal year with 10,879,383 TEUs, the most in a year for any Western Hemisphere port.

Of the total cargo, 467,763 TEUs were imports, a 27 percent increase from last Junes imports. Exports decreased by 12 percent to 96,067, which was the lowest amount of exports at the port since 2005. The number of empty containers that moved through the port increased by 47 percent to 312,600 TEUs, the port said, attributing heavy demand for containers in Asia.

In May, the port became the first port in the Western Hemisphere to handle more than a million TEUs in one month, with 1,012,248 TEUs processed in May, the most in the ports 114-year history.

In the last year, the port eclipsed eight monthly records and experienced its two highest-performing quarters.

Key economic indicators all suggest that U.S. consumer spending will remain strong through the remainder of 2021, said Port of Los Angeles executive director Gene Seroka. Even as Americans return to airline travel, vacations and in-person events, retail sales and e-commerce remain robust.

Fall fashion, back-to-school items and Halloween goods are arriving on our docks, and some retailers are shipping year-end holiday products early, he added. All signs point to a robust second half of the year, which is good news for the nearly 1 million residents in the region who have jobs tied to the San Pedro Bay port complex.

The port experienced a 44 percent increase in cargo volume during the first six months of 2021 compared to 2020. Overall cargo so far this year reached 5,427,359 TEUs.
White House press secretary Jen Psaki holds a press briefing the Brady Press Briefing Room of the White House in Washington on July 8, 2021. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images)

Psaki on Cuba: Communism Is a Failed Ideology, Led to Mass Protests

White House press secretary Jen Psaki delivered the Biden administrations strongest signal yet in support of Cubans demonstrating against the ruling regime, describing communism as a failed ideology.

In response to a reporters question on Thursday, Psaki stated: Communism is a failed ideology and we certainly believe that.

It has failed the people of Cuba, they deserve freedom, she said during a briefing. They deserve a government that supports them, whether that is making sure they have health and medical supplies, access to vaccines, or whether they have economic opportunity and prosperity.

This has been a governmentan authoritarian, communist regimethat has repressed its people and has failed the people of Cuba, hence were seeing them in the streets, Psaki continued.

Starting over the past weekend, thousands of Cubans have openly demonstrated against the Cuban regime and called for its leader Miguel Diaz-Canelalso the head of the Cuban Communist Partyto step down. Some demonstrators, as well as Cubans in the United States, have called on the Biden administration to intervene amid mass arrests of demonstrators by the regime.

Psaki has pushed back against the claim that the U.S. embargo led to protests against the regime. For decades, Cubans have blamed the Cuban Communist Party and the ruling Castro regime for the countrys economic troubles and human rights violations.

The regime also has long placed restrictions on travelers bringing food, hygiene products, medicine, and other items into the country. On Wednesday, Cuba announced it would temporarily rescind those restrictions, which was a key demand of the protesters.

People react during protests in Havana, Cuba, July 11, 2021. (Stringer/Reuters)

I would note that the [communist] ideology of the government, which has failed, has led to a lack of access to economic opportunities, to medical supplies, to COVID vaccines, she said Thursday.

The press secretary also responded to criticism that President Joe Biden hasnt provided enough support on the demonstrations.

Biden has made clear that he stands with the Cuban people and their call for freedom from both the pandemic and from decades of repression and economic suffering to which theyve been subjected by Cubas authoritarian regime, Psaki added.

Amid the demonstrations, activists told news outlets this week that more than 100 people have been arrested, detained, or are simply missing in a regime-led clampdown.

The State Department condemned the arrests of political activists.

The Cuban Government has attempted to silence their [Cubans] voices and communications through internet shutdowns, violence, and arbitrary detentions of dozens of protesters, journalists, activists, and other repressive tactics, State Department spokesman Ned Price said on Tuesday
Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger speaks at a news conference at the State Capitol in Atlanta on Nov. 6, 2020. (Dustin Chambers/Reuters)

Raffensperger Calls for Fulton County to Clean House or Face State Takeover

Georgias secretary of state on July 15 called for Fulton County to fire top elections officials or face takeover by the state.

Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, a Republican, said the county must fire Richard Barron, its elections director, and Ralph Jones, the countys voter registration chief.

Every time we think weve reached the peak of Fultons elections mismanagement issues, more comes to light, Raffensperger told The Epoch Times in an email.

Ive been calling for change in Fulton since day one. Maintaining public confidence in our elections begins in Fulton County. Now with SB202, the State Election Board has the authority to make that happen. If Fulton County doesnt take action to clean their own house, then I reiterate my call that the State Election Board should use their new authority to clean it for them.

Georgias Senate Bill 2020, signed by Gov. Brian Kemp in March, allows the board to suspend a county official if the official is found to have committed at least three violations of state law or election rules in the last two election cycles.

Raffensperger is no longer head of the board, and state lawmakers havent replaced him. Rebecca Sullivan, vice chair of the board, didnt respond to a request for comment, nor did Fulton County.

The Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections voted in February to fire Barron, finding that the countys conduct during the 2020 election cycle was sloppy and inefficient. But the termination was blocked by the countys Board of Commissioners.

Raffenspergers statement comes after an election integrity group said an analysis of ballot images proved that fraud occurred in an audit that took place in the county, which is the largest in the state and encompasses Atlanta.

Garland Favorito, head of Voters Organized for Trusted Election Results in Georgia, told a press conference this week: Theyve been saying that theres no evidence of fraud. Thats not true. And theyre misleading people in Georgia; there has been evidence of fraud for six months.

Additionally, ballot images made public under Georgias new law showed that Fulton officials scanned nearly 200 ballots twice, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

Before that, the county failed to produce chain-of-custody forms for some ballots dropped off at drop boxes.

An official with Raffenspergers office told The Epoch Times that the revelations dont show fraud. Carter Jones, who the State Election Board tapped to monitor the 2020 election, and who observed massive issues, told the paper that the double-counting is not evidence of fraud.

Fulton is so poor at managing the actual process that if they had actually tried to rig the election, they would have bungled it and we would have found out, he said.

Robb Pitts, chairman of the Fulton County Commission, acknowledged the possibility of small-scale human error but claimed that allegations of intentional wrongdoing or fraud remain untrue and baseless.

Favorito and Republican challengers to Raffensperger and Kemp said officials knew about the irregularities but shielded them from the public while proclaiming the evidence secure.

Vernon Jones, who is running for governor, used the same phrase Raffensperger offered about Fulton County.

Based on recent reports out of Fulton County: 1. Brian Kemp should resign. 2. Brad Raffensberger should follow him. Its time to CLEAN HOUSE here in the state of Georgia, Jones said on Twitter.

A Kemp spokesperson didnt respond to a request for comment. An official with Raffenspergers office said that counties run elections and the state merely oversees them.
Russia-Based Ransomware Gang Offline but Cause Not Clear

WASHINGTONThe Russia-based criminal syndicate behind a devastating series of recent ransomware attacks was offline on Tuesday, but cybersecurity experts said that it was premature to speculate why and that there was no indication of a law enforcement takedown.

REvils dark web data-leak site and ransom-negotiating portals were both unreachable, cybersecurity researchers said. The group was responsible for the Memorial Day ransomware attack on the meat processor JBS and the supply-chain attack this month targeting the software company Kaseya that crippled well over 1,000 businesses globally.

President Joe Biden told Russian President Vladimir Putin on a call Friday that he needed to rein in attacks from Russia-based groups and warned that the United States had the right to defend its people and critical infrastructure from attacks.

But there were no immediate or public signs that the government had anything to do with REvil appearing offline. It was also possible that the group was laying low after the attack, or switching methods as we did expose them, said threat researcher Ryan Sherstobitoff of SecurityScorecard.

A sign reads: Temporarily Closed. We have an IT-disturbance and our systems are not functioning, posted in the window of a closed Coop supermarket store in Stockholm, Sweden, on July 3, 2021. (Ali Lorestani/TT via AP)

It could be that the server hardware failed, or that it was intentionally taken down, or that someone attacked their host, said Sean Gallagher, a threat researcher at the cybersecurity firm Sophos. He noted that REvils public ransom-negotiating site was also down last week.

Spokespeople for the White House and U.S. CyberCommand, the Pentagons cyber arm, declined to comment on Tuesday.

We have seen no indicators for either voluntary shutdown nor of any offensive steps from law enforcement, said Alex Holden, founder and chief information security officer of Hold Security. Right now, perhaps, it is too early to speculate, especially as REvil was building up their strength over the recent months.

There is always a glimmer of hope that Russia is finally doing something right, he added.

Ransomware variants have previously disappeared as the criminals behind them retooled and modified their malware before introducing it under a new guise. Thats what threat analysts believe happened with a precursor to the REvil ransomware-as-a-service software called Gandcrab. It was the most successful variant over a 15-month run that began in January 2018.

By Eric Tucker and Frank Bajak
Sen. Johnson Accuses Health Agency Heads of Stonewalling Virus Safety Info

Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) is challenging the heads of the top three federal health agencies to stop stonewalling Congress and explain why their vaccine safety and surveillance promises dont match their actions.

In a July 13 letter made public late on July 14, Johnson, ranking Republican on the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee, said he was encouraged in October 2020 by a videoconference among the National Institutes for Health (NIH), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

A portion of that meeting detailed the multiple surveillance systems that would monitor the safety and efficacy of any vaccines receiving federal approval in the treatment and prevention of the CCP virus, also known as the novel coronavirus, Johnson told NIH Director Francis Collins, CDC Director Rochelle Walensky, and Acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock.

In general, the vaccine surveillance plan described on October 22 appeared comprehensive, and would have instilled a great deal of confidence in the agencies commitment to vaccine safety and efficacy to anyone listening to the presentations at that time, Johnson wrote.

Unfortunately, your agencies lack of response to congressional oversight letters, combined with my discussions with agency officials and individuals who believe they have experienced vaccine injuries, leads me to believe the preauthorization safety surveillance hype does not appear to match the agencies actual performance.

Of particular concern to Johnson were the alarming safety signals emanating from VAERS (Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System, established July 1, 1990) that he brought up with Director Collins in a meeting with other Senate Republicans on April 27, 2021.

The VAERS system is the governments primary database for safety and performance surveillance of all vaccines, not just the three CCP virus vaccines currently being administered in the United States.

Johnson said he found what he described as Collinss dismissive reaction to my concerns as more than troubling. By that date, the number of deaths following COVID-19 vaccination reported to VAERS had already reached 3,411, with 1,349 or 39.5 percent of those deaths occurring on Day 0, 1, or 2 following vaccination.

He noted that prior to the CCP virus vaccines, VAERS averages 50,000 adverse event reports annually (approximately 1,000 per week). The [CDC] and FDA subsequently informed my staff that as of June 28, 2021, VAERS had received 410,000 submissions detailing adverse events following a COVID-19 vaccination.

Of those submissions, approximately 41,000 reports meet the regulatory definition of serious adverse event and are supposedly followed-up upon. As of July 2, 2021, VAERS reported 5,247 domestic deaths with 1,814 or 34.6 percent of those deaths occurring on Day 0, 1, or 2 following receipt of a COVID-19 vaccine, he wrote.

The Wisconsin Republican said that he expected the director of NIH to share my concerns, but he, together with our other federal health agencies, has continued to downplay the significance of what VAERS is signaling.

Johnsons concerns have been further compounded, he told the three agency chiefs, by the recent change in tone from them regarding the efficacy of the VAERS system.

Now, nine months and 438,441 reported adverse events later, health care professionals are publicly downplaying the effectiveness and validity of these same systems, Johnson said.

For example, on May 3, 2021, Dr. Paul Offit, who is member of an FDA advisory committee, stated So [VAERS is] a noisy system that frankly is more frightening than helpful. Which is it? he asked.

Johnson then addressed multiple questions to each of the agency heads and pointed out in his queries to Collins that the NIH has ignored his multiple requests for information regarding the agencys research on potential CCP virus treatments.

In a recent telephone discussion with Collins, Johnson said he indicated NIH has spent hundreds of millions of dollars and researched hundreds of potential existing drugs for treating COVID-19. Unfortunately, even though I have repeatedly asked for you to provide detail and documentation of these efforts, NIH has stonewalled my oversight request and to date Ive received no relevant information.

Media spokesmen for each of the three agencies declined to respond to The Epoch Times request for comment.

Congressional correspondent Mark Tapscott may be contacted at Mark.Tapscott@epochtimes.nyc.
Senior Tory Raises Project Kowtow Fears Over UKs Business Deals With China

Ministers have been accused of running a project kowtow by failing to block the sale of a British microchip manufacturer to a Chinese-backed company.

Conservative former leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith warned the Government is in an unholy mess over its approach to business deals involving China. Newport Wafer Fab, based in Newport, South Wales, has been the subject of a takeover by Chinese-owned Nexperia.

Business minister Amanda Solloway said the Government does not plan to intervene at the current time, although Prime Minister Boris Johnson has asked national security adviser Sir Stephen Lovegrove to examine the sale.

Speaking in the Commons, Duncan Smith was among several Conservative MPs to voice concernsincluding over the lack of use of powers that enable ministers to intervene in business deals that may pose a national security risk. He said: I think the Government is in an unholy mess over this.

Conservative MP Iain Duncan Smith leaves 10 Downing Street in central London, England, on October 22, 2019. (Daniel Leal-Olivas/AFP via Getty Images)

It is no good the Government telling us that there is a very clear definition between what is strategic and what is not strategic.

I wonder in the course of this failure to make a decision, did they look at what China thinks of semi-conductors?

China is the biggest exporter in the world and is busy buying up semi-conductor technology everywhere it can find it.

They have identified semi-conductor technology as one of the key areas that they need to dominate globally and they are busy stealing technology, getting other peoples intellectual property rights, and buying up companies.

The idea that a semi-conductor is not strategic when the technology in there will be used in almost everything we do, everything that we produce that is electronic, my simple case is this: Are we now in the position of a kind of project kowtow, where we simply say We just have to do business with the Chinese no matter what?

This is outrageous and I simply say to [Solloway] that she must take back to her right honourable friends that this is not going to pass, we should have used this [National Security and Investment Act] and blocked this deal.

Solloway replied: The Government has looked closely at this transaction and doesnt consider it appropriate to intervene at the current time.

And the Prime Minister has made it clear at the Liaison Committee last week that he has asked the national security adviser to review this.

For Labour, shadow business minister Chi Onwurah said: The Government has consistently outsourced British national security and economic interests because ministers have prioritised market zeal over British security.

Earlier, Conservative Geoffrey Clifton-Brown asked why the Government has not intervened in this matter of such importance to our national security.

The Cotswolds MP, who secured an urgent question on the issue, said: In this particular case the security issue should be paramount.

China considers this matter as vital for their national security, as do other countries such as our allies the United States, so why is our Government not taking the same view?

Solloway said: It is right that commercial transactions are primarily a matter for the parties involved.

The Government has been in close contact with Newport Wafer Fab but it does not consider it appropriate to intervene in this case at the current time.

We will continue to monitor the situation closely and, as part of this, the Prime Minister has asked the national security adviser to review this case.

Separately, work is under way to review the wider semi-conductor landscape in the United Kingdom.

As I am sure the House will appreciate, I will not be able to comment on the detail of commercial transactions or of any national security assessment on a particular case.

Conservative MP Tom Tugendhat takes part in a meeting of a conservative research group in Westminster Hall in London on April 9, 2019. (Tolga Akmen/AFP via Getty Images)

Commons Foreign Affairs Committee chairman Tom Tugendhat has written to the Prime Minister to ask why he had taken the unusual step of asking the national security adviser to look at the sale rather than the usual review process.

The new National Security and Investment Act is supposed to put in place mechanisms ensuring that screening is routine, yet the Governments refusal to use even existing powers under the Enterprise Act 2002 casts serious doubt upon their willingness to call in similar high-risk transactions, regardless of the legislation in place, Tugendhat said.

No financial investment outweighs the security of the country.

By Richard Wheeler and David Lynch
Sorry to Inform You: Trump Responds to Report That Top General Suggested He Wanted Post-Election Coup

Former President Donald Trump responded to anonymously sourced reports claiming a top U.S. general made comments he was worried about a coup attempt after the 2020 election.

Gen. Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, allegedly told his subordinates he felt the need to be on guard after Nov. 3, according to a book from two Washington Post reporters that cited anonymous officials. You cant do this without the military. You cant do this without the CIA and the FBI. Were the guys with the guns, the general reportedly said.

But Trump, in a statement on Thursday, said Milleys comments were false.

I never threatened, or spoke about, to anyone, a coup of our Government, Trump said in an emailed statement. So ridiculous! Sorry to inform you, but an Election is my form of coup, and if I was going to do a coup, one of the last people I would want to do it with is General Mark Milley.

Trumps statement then took aim at former Defense Secretary Jim Mattis.

He got his job only because the worlds most overrated general, James Mattis, could not stand him, had no respect for him, and would not recommend him, the former president added. To me the fact that Mattis didnt like him, just like Obama didnt like him and actually fired Milley, was a good thing, not a bad thing. I often act counter to peoples advice who I dont respect.

Then-President Donald Trump departs the White House to visit outside St. Johns Church, with Secretary of Defense Mark Esper, center, Joint Staffs chairman Mark Milley, right, and other officials, in Washington on June 1, 2020. (Patrick Semansky/AP Photo)

In June, Milley was criticized by Republican lawmakers for his apparent defense of critical race theory during a congressional hearing, saying hes read both Karl Marx and Soviet dictator and founder Vladimir Lenin. But, according to Milley, having read such authors doesnt make me a communist. So, what is wrong with understanding  the country which we are here to defend?

And Trump commented on Milleys actions in the summer of 2020 amid Black Lives Matter demonstrations and riots around the United States and near the White House. At one point last year, officials said the historic St. Johns Church in Washington D.C.s Layafette Square was set on fire.

In any event, I lost respect for Milley when we walked together to St. Johns Church (which was still smoldering from a Radical Left fire set the day before), side by side, a walk that has now been proven to be totally appropriateand the following day Milley choked like a dog in front of the Fake News when they told him they thought he should not have been walking with the President, which turned out to be incorrect, the former commander-in-chief said. Trump then faulted Milley for his remarks at the time.

I saw at that moment he had no courage or skill, certainly not the type of person I would be talking coup with. Im not into coups! Trump wrote.

The Epoch Times reached out to the Pentagon for comment.
A factory burns in the background while empty boxes litter the foreground from looted goods being removed, on the outskirts of Durban, South Africa, on July 14, 2021. (AP Photo)

South Africa Looking Into Deploying More Military to Quell Unrest

The South African government is looking into expanding the deployment of the military after days of looting and violence, President Cyril Ramaphosa said, according to a statement from his office on Wednesday.

Ramaphosa made the comments during consultations with the leaders of political parties on ways to address the ongoing unrest. The leaders urged him to put more troops on the streets.

President Ramaphosa welcomed proposals made by political leaders and said expanded deployment of the South African National Defence Force was being addressed, the statement said.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa delivers han address in Parliament in South Africa, on Feb. 11, 2021. (Esa Alexander/Pool/AFP via Getty Images)

Days of riots and looting in South Africa have left more than 70 people dead, hurt thousands of businesses and damaged major infrastructure in some of the worst civil unrest.

The unrest started after former President Jacob Zuma handed himself over last week to start a 15-month prison sentence for contempt of court.

Zuma supporters, who believe he is the victim of a political witch-hunt, burned tyres and blocked roads in his home province of KwaZulu-Natal.

Support for Zuma stems partly from his image as a man of the people during his nine years in power until 2018, and because some see his jailing as an attack on the nations largest ethnic group, the Zulu.

Although many wealthy and middle-class South Africans were overjoyed when Zuma was ousted after multiple sleaze and graft allegations, he still retains loyal followings in KwaZulu-Natal and some poor, rural areas.

His support among the population mirrors a division within the governing African National Congress (ANC), where a pro-Zuma faction opposes his successor President Cyril Ramaphosa.

A member of the South African Police Services searches for looters inside the Gold Spot Shopping Centre in Vosloorus, southeast of Johannesburg, on July 12, 2021. (Guillem Sartorio/AFP via Getty Images)

Poverty, Crime

The hardship that persists 27 years after the end of apartheid is a major reason why hundreds of shops and dozens of malls have been stripped bare.

Statistics agency data show roughly half of the countrys 35 million adults live below the poverty line and that young people are disproportionately affected by unemployment.

South Africa has one of the highest levels of inequality in the world according to the commonly-used Gini index, with a dual economy catering to a small, largely white elite and large, mainly black majority.

Rioters loot the Jabulani Mall in Soweto, southwest of Johannesburg, on July 12, 2021.(Guillem Sartorio/AFP via Getty Images)

A South Africa Police Service officer tries to disperse rioters looting a liquor shop at the Jabulani Mall in the Soweto district of Johannesburg on July 12, 2021. (Luca Sola/AFP via Getty Images)

Moves by the ANC, which has governed since the start of democratic rule, to redistribute land and wealth have progressed slowly.

COVID-19 has exacerbated poverty, with a recent survey showing a sharp increase in hunger. Official unemployment hit a record high above 32 percent in the first three months of 2021.

Although the government increased social grants to cushion the pandemic, it cannot afford to match the costly furlough schemes of wealthier nations.

Police say some criminals have been taking advantage of anger over Zumas imprisonment to steal and cause destruction. So far more than 1,200 people have been arrested.

Suspected looters who surrendered to armed private security officers are marched outside, in a flooded mall in Vosloorus, on July 13, 2021. (Marco Longari/AFP via Getty Images)

People are also reportedly fanning the violence with inflammatory comments and social media posts, according to security officials. Two people drawing criticism are a spokesman for Zumas charitable foundation, Mzwanele Manyi, who attributed some early acts of violence to righteous anger, and Zumas daughter Duduzile.

Manyi told Reuters the violence could have been avoided and that the manner in which 79-year-old Zuma was jailed reminded people of the apartheid days.

An account bearing Duduziles name has repeatedly posted images and videos of protests and violence on Twitter with the rallying cry Amandla! (Power!) used during the liberation struggle. Reuters has not been able to reach her to verify she posted those messages.

The ANC has said it is concerned by the tweets and that party member Duduzile will have to explain herself.

By Alexander Winning
Australia Halts China Owned Mine Expansion in Tasmania Over Environmental Outcry

The Australian Federal Government has temporarily ceased plans to prolong the life of a majority Chinese state-owned mine in Tasmania following public outcry over its proposal to decimate a section of rainforest.

The plan to extend the shelf life of Minerals and Metals Groups (MMG) 85-year-old Rosebery Mine for another 40 years was put on hold after the Department of Environment found the project required assessment under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act before it could proceed.

The zinc, copper, lead, and gold mineand the 500 workers it sustainedrequired new space to store its waste, and intended to construct a 140-hectare dam to hold the mines tailings. The plan would see a total of 285 hectares of wilderness, including parts of the Tarkine rainforest, cleared in the process.

MMG, which is more than two-thirds owned by China Minmetals, encountered resistance from environmental protection group Bob Brown Foundation (BBF), whose activists faced close to 70 arrests after protesting onsite the mine for close to two monthsincluding attaching themselves to machines.

Environment Minister Sussan Ley speaks during a press conference at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia on June 22, 2021. (Photo by Sam Mooy/Getty Images)

Federal Environment Minister Sussan Ley met with the environmental protection groups leader, retired Greens Leader Bob Brown, and MMG in a visit to the region in early July prior to making the decision.

MMG welcomed the decision for an environmental impact assessment, saying that it intended to comply to the greatest extent with the stringent state and federal regulations.

Our priority is to find the safest and most balanced solution that secures the future of the 85 year-old Rosebery mine and the 500 people and their families that it supports, MMG said in a media release.

The BBF were relieved with the outcome, but said that Ley should have outright banned MMG from clearing the area given alternative locations available nearby.

MMGs heavy machinery should never have been allowed into such a magnificent rainforest and wildlife area, an BBF spokesperson said in a media statement.

The Minister should have cleared the air properly and made a definitive decision that this tailings dam does not belong in the rainforests of takayna / Tarkine when there are several options for MMG nearer the mine and outside this priceless area,

However, Tasmania Premier Peter Gutwein expressed dismay towards the groups actions for not considering the impact the protests had on workers livelihoods.

Liberal Leader and Premier of Tasmania Peter Gutwein speaks in the tally room for the Tasmanian Election in Hobart, Australia on May 1, 2021. (AAP Image/Chris Crerar)

It simply beggars belief that the Greens are ignoring the normal planning and approvals process and instead callously calling for 500 jobs in the North West to be thrown on the scrapheap, Gutwein said in a media release.

Gutwein said that the protestors had demanded workers withdraw their machines from the area, despite having approval to continue operating on site for the duration of the assessment.

Rosalie Woodruff should apologise and let the process take its courseor if she doesnt, she should drive up to Rosebery and tell these workers to their face why she wants to put their families in the unemployment queue.
NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian looks on as Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison speaks during a press conference at Kirribilli House in Sydney, Australia, on July 13, 2021. (Jenny Evans/Getty Images)

The Downsides of the JobKeeper Redux

Commentary

It did not take long for commentators to label the revised joint Commonwealth and state financial support package for the economic victims of COVID-19 restrictions as JobKeeper lite.

This will doubtless irritate Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Treasurer Josh Frydenberg after they invested precious political capital in burying the JobKeeper subsidy scheme at the end of March and insist they are not resurrecting it. However, the new package has much in common with JobKeeper, despite being different in significant ways.

The real issue is not how the new package should be labelled, but whether it should have been provided at all.

First, the differences. JobKeeper cost the Commonwealth budget $90 billion over its 12-month life.

The new package will not reach anything like that figure, even if it proves to be needed for many months and across several states. This is because its provisions are much less generous, at a maximum of $600 a week for individual employees and $10,000 a week for small and medium businesses.

JobKeeper delivered all its benefits through employers, not directly to employees. Moreover, New South Wales (NSW) and any other state that becomes eligible because of COVID outbreaks will share the budgetary cost of the payments to businesses. While states have provided some business support at their own cost before now, they bore none of the cost of JobKeeper.

A family walk in front of shuttered shops during a lockdown in the Fairfield in Sydney, Australia, on July 12, 2021 (Saeed Khan/AFP via Getty Images)

Just what the total cost will be is unclear and will depend on how long Sydney remains shut, but a figure of $5 billion has been mentioned.

While most of this will fall to the Commonwealth, it will also come as a jolt to NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet, who handed down his 2021-22 budget just three weeks ago based on assumptions about COVID restrictions that have already been blown out of the water.

The costs to the state budget go beyond NSWs contributions to the Commonwealth/state JobKeeper litefor example, state revenue will also suffer losses due to the extended lockdown of Greater Sydney.

Another key difference is that Commonwealth support is confined to declared hot spot areas and will be switched off as soon as the Commonwealths own declaration is cancelled. In contrast, JobKeeper continued for a set period regardless.

What the latest package has in common with JobKeeper is that it aims both to support consumer purchasing power and to keep employees attached to their employers even if they have no work to do.

The business support payments are conditional on employers not reducing their full-time, part-time or casual payroll numbers from their current levels as of July 13. This is a disincentive for small and medium employers to lay people off.

The idea is to make the eventual recovery quicker by keeping employer-employee links intact.

Large employers dont get the support but are better placed to weather the storm.

Tables taped off in Australia Square in CBD of Sydney, Australia, on July 13, 2021 (Jenny Evans/Getty Images)

Leaving aside the design features, the question as to whether any scheme of this kind is warranted cannot be separated from whether the shutdown itself is warranted. If the shutdown is deemed necessary, then the employee and business support are justified because economic activity is being stopped by government decree for the greater good.

However, there is some circularity here. The support is justified if the restrictions are, but the availability of the support helps encourage state governments to impose restrictions and sustain them.

Ever since lockdowns and border closures became controversial, there have been arguments that the Commonwealths financial support for businesses and jobs, will, in fact, bias the states towards restrictions.

The cessation of JobKeeper at the end of March was expected to remove any such incentive for the states and make them more conscious of the costs of their actions.

However, in the months since then, there has been little evidence of the states being any less inclined to lock down and shut borders at the first sign of a COVID cluster developing.

They appear to be so firmly wedded to the eradication of COVID-19however unrealistic and costly that isthat they are willing to impose and bear almost any cost to achieve it. No doubt their first preference is that the Commonwealth budget should bear the cost, but if not, then they will go ahead with extreme restrictions anyway.

Acceptance of the case for support when the government decrees shut down or curb business activity does not mean that all support schemes are justified. The design flaws of the original JobKeeper scheme, for example, are well known. The successor scheme will, hopefully, be less open to abuse.

We should also be alert to the economic downside of such schemes. As the Productivity Commission said in a timely review of COVID-19 economic support released this week: The longer assistance is provided, the greater the likelihood it props up less efficient (or ultimately unviable) firms while providing windfall rents to profitable businesses.

In other words, scarce economic resources can be trapped in businesses that have no future, and the inevitable transition to more efficient uses of these resources is delayed.

That is a longer-term concern. For the short-term, it is clear from Melbournes experience this time last year that even with financial support being provided, the NSW economy faces a severe setbackand because the state accounts for a third of the nations economy, this will create a major dent in the countrys economic outcomes this quarter.

The recovery will no longer be V shaped and, in the worst-case scenario, could even go into reverse.

Robert Carling is a senior fellow at the Centre for Independent Studies in Sydney, Australia and a former World Bank, IMF, and federal and state Treasury economist.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
The Future of Afghanistan and US Policy Lessons

Commentary

Soon Afghanistan will become a Taliban-run state. It will not be a bed of roses. There have already been executions of serving Afghan military personnel and the beginning of taking away the rights of women. It will get worse. But we need to ask the question: Why did we lose the fight?

The short answer to a hard question is that the United States (and the allies we dragged in) had no business in Afghanistan in the first place.

Afghanistan is of marginal strategic or geopolitical importance.

While Afghanistan harbored terrorists, so too does nearby Pakistan. But we are not fighting in Pakistan.

Some say we are fighting to protect the freedom of the Afghan people. And that may be partly true, but there are plenty of other oppressed people who merit our support, but we dont help.

Cuba comes to mind. So does Venezuela.

Cuba is of strategic significance if it becomes a base for our adversaries, as we learned when the USSR under Khrushchev placed nuclear missiles and bombs there, aimed at the U.S. east coast. But even under those extreme circumstances, we did not invade, and we did not liberate the Cuban people.

Even today with Cubans in the streets protesting the Communist dictatorship in Cuba, the best Washington will do, as exemplified by President Biden, is to put out a press release, and that grudgingly and reluctantly.

Iran is a significant threat, yet our government is removing sanctions and treating the expansionist and cruel Iranian Mullah regime as a possible peace partner. Really?

No one in the Pentagon nor did many in Congress want to leave Afghanistan, mostly because they did not want the evacuation to happen on their watch. Otherwise they really dont have any good arguments for hanging in there, since nothing was getting betterit was getting worse.

Naturally we could have stayed, but at some point either we were going to have to reverse course and send more troops to this forlorn country, or bag it and go home. The war itself has cost thousands of American lives and two or more trillion dollars over its 20 years of fighting. US News and World Report calculates the human cost as follows:

American service members killed in Afghanistan through April: 2,448. U.S. contractors: 3,846. Afghan national military and police: 66,000. Other allied service members, including other NATO member states: 1,144. Afghan civilians: 47,245. Taliban and other opposition fighters: 51,191.

This account does not record the number of wounded and, in the United States and NATO, the cost of treating the casualties for years to come.

We can also ask what it is we created, in the odd but highly unlikely chance that the NATO-backed regime in that country miraculously survives the Taliban onslaught.

Out of 180 countries, Afghanistan ranks as the 177th worst when it comes to corruption according to the Asia Foundation. Put in proper order, the number one top problem of the country is insecurity, followed by corruption, followed by unemployment according to a 2012 survey done in the country by the United Nations and the Afghan High Office of Oversight and Anti-corruption.

There is also the problem of sustainability in the Afghan military. Sometimes it fights, but at other times it either cuts and runs or surrenders. The United States has spent billions on trying to build up and train the Afghan military, but the effort has not really paid off.

It is hard to admit, but it is the truth, that the United States and its NATO partners, and a host of Private Voluntary Organizations (PVOs), sought to impose Western culture on a country that isnt in the least Western in values and outlook.

Western culture got a foothold in some cities, most notably Kabul, but on the whole it failed to gain a political following strong enough to stand up to the Taliban and their Islamic cause.

In the Afghan and coalition military, frequent attacks of green on blue exposed the failure to reach a cultural arrangement in the country. A green on blue attack is where a soldier or soldiers in the Afghan military attack either their own soldiers or their NATO partners. There were more attacks launched from the inside of the military, then from the outside (that is, from the Taliban or terrorist al-Qaeda or ISIS forces).

More or less what happened at the psychological level in Vietnam, happened in Afghanistan. U.S. forces in Vietnam never trusted the Vietnam military and often treated them as a colonial power might have treated the locals in places where, in effect, they were the occupying power.

Something like that happened in Afghanistan, where NATO forces were far from impressed by the Afghan military and in most cases wrote them off and treated them as second-class partners, or worse. These are the kind of fights that become internally asymmetric, and where the toughest fighting is handled by the outside forces.

One would have thought the United States would have learned something from Vietnam and used those lessons as a guidepost first in deciding to send U.S. and NATO troops into Afghanistan, and once decided would have set strict limits on how long we would be there and clear realizable objectives that would let us leave when the job was done, preferably in a few weeks and at most a few months. Twenty years is evidence of blurry goals (or no goals at all) and a failure to learn any lessons from the past.

In the Pentagon it is often said that the building has a historical memory of no more than five minutes. Maybe so, but the real culprit is that the United States did not want to understand why it failed in Vietnam and therefore never was able to formulate policy for future decision-makers.

While the Afghanistan debate will go on for years to come, it would be better to try and draw some lessons. When the United States walks away a loser, it harms the lives of freedom loving and freedom-seeking people around the world. We can avoid such mistakes only if we learn the lessons and teach them to our future leaders.

Stephen Bryen is regarded as a thought leader on technology security policy, twice being awarded the Defense Departments highest civilian honor, the Distinguished Public Service Medal. His most recent book is Technology Security and National Power: Winners and Losers.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
The New Gatekeepers

Commentary

The great voice of intellectual diversity is John Stuart Mill, who in On Liberty (1859) warned that uniformity of opinion in a society damaged free speech and free thought.

Mill was a renowned liberal of the Victorian Age who argued for progressive causes throughout his career, but he understood well the complacency and blindness that set in when people go through their lives never facing challenges to their outlooks, and that included challenges from the right. Suppression of unpopular opinion without giving it a chance to be fairly heard harms everyone, he insisted. Yes, those unfortunate people adhering to a belief that the society will not admit into the public square suffer a direct injury (their pamphlets seized, employment denied, prosecution ), but the suppression injures everyone else as well.

Heres how Mill put it:

But the peculiar evil of silencing the expression of an opinion is, that it is robbing the human race; posterity as well as the existing generation; those who dissent from the opinion, still more than those who hold it. If the opinion is right, they are deprived of the opportunity of exchanging error for truth; if wrong, they lose, what is almost as great a benefit, the clearer perception and livelier impression of truth, produced by its collision with error.

In other words, even false beliefs have a positive effect: The process of debate clarifies and strengthens the true belief that opposes it. In an open society with institutions that ensure free and fair forensics, truth will overcome error, and the exertion makes that truth all the more secure. Give all sides a chance to explain themselves and the superior ones will advancethats Mills hypothesis.

Theres an important premise about truth here, and its central to liberalism: Truth needs exercise, a good workout now and then. Without such challenges, truth decays, turns into a habit, a routine, becomes flabby and lazy, a thoughtless dogma that fails to keep up with changing times. Its not that the truth becomes false, though that can certainly happen in a swiftly developing society. Rather, its that people applying that truth do so in an unreflective way, crudely and indiscriminately. They grow smug. They come to prefer blunt affirmation of what they already believe to the contest that proves the rightness of what they believe. And why shouldnt they, given the universal fallibility of human beings (Mill highlights this) and the absence of reasons for those putative truth-tellers to be a little circumspect in their assertionsthe absence, that is, of contrary opinions.

Keep that tendency in mind as you look at this Wall Street Journal story on a sorry trend in trade book publishing. The story has the title New Book Publisher Caters to Conservative Voices It Says Are Being Silenced, and it spotlights a few incidents at Simon & Schuster in which employees at the publishing house demanded that certain book deals be cancelled. After Simon & Schuster ended its plans to publish Republican Sen. Josh Hawleys The Tyranny of Big Tech (which was picked up by Regnery), a petition circulated insisting that the publisher also cancel its book deal with former Vice President Mike Pence. The petition eventually collected hundreds of signatures, though CEO Jonathan Karp eventually rejected the demands.

This isnt the only case of workers in publishing targeting conservatives, of course. The Wall Street Journal story doesnt mention it, but last November employees at Penguin Random House Canada confronted executives there over their plans to publish Jordan Petersons new book Beyond Order: 12 More Rules for Life. There was weeping in the room, it was reported, and lots of accusation (Peterson was labelled an icon of white supremacy). Nobody expected the book to lose money; commerce had nothing to do with it; this was a workers revolt with solely a moral motive.

What was missing at Penguin and in the anti-Pence petition was precisely what Mill called for in On Liberty: a reasoned, open discussion of the merits of the case. The petition declared that if Simon & Schuster proceeded with the book deal, the publisher would commit an act of legitimizing bigotry. That term is a telling choice.

So is another word that employees at Simon & Schuster used when explaining their petition to Wall Street Journal reporters: they say they arent targeting all Republican or conservative books, but rather those specifically from Trump administration officials, whose behavior they say shouldnt be normalized. The key word in that explanation is the last one, normalized. It pairs nicely with legitimizing. Do you see what those words signify relative to Mills marketplace of ideas and a lively public square?

If an attitude or belief isnt legitimate, it isnt up for debate. It doesnt deserve consideration. It doesnt belong in the public square. Its been excluded before the colloquy has even begun. Indeed, if it were allowed entrance into the public square, though it were ruled out after due examination and discussion, it would still tarnish all the other attitudes and beliefs in that discussion space that do belong there, that are legitimate. Thats what the petitioners believe. The Woke workers speak as if the Pence book deal will poison the whole field of proper opinion, not just the Simon & Schuster brand.

The criterion normal is even more vigilant. Illegitimacy is one thing; abnormality is worse. The label has overtones of mental illness and of moral perversion. It puts the entire issue off the agenda; it keeps those fringe characters who purvey the abnormality out of the room. They, too, are abnormal, and you dont debate cretins and perverts. No intellectual contest takes place.

This is the Woke sensibility in action. The public square it heralds and monitors is smaller than anything weve seen in a long time, and it has fewer admittees. The workers in trade publishing, the activists on college campuses calling for anti-racism and tighter speech codes, marchers in the streets, Millennials calling for more boycotts and cancellations  they are the new gatekeepers. Those loaded terms legitimacy and normalize signal a different forensic, illiberal and unscientific. The Woke have replaced truth and falsity with normal and abnormal. They have declared themselves the arbiters of what counts as legitimate and what doesnt.

The fact that Pence drew 70+ million votes last November doesnt impress them one bit. Rather, it prods them to stricter controls. They believe theyre fighting a good fight, and the numbers of Americans willing to support what they consider immoral, unjust practices and individuals doesnt cause them to reflect on their censorship. No, it exhorts them to stronger tactics, and it also gives them the cachet of the noble warrior as well. Theyre not going to back off any time soon.

Mark Bauerlein is an emeritus professor of English at Emory University. His work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, The Weekly Standard, The Washington Post, the TLS, and the Chronicle of Higher Education.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
A Didi autonomous taxi is performing a pilot test drive on the streets in Shanghai on July 22, 2020. (Hector Retamal/AFP via Getty Images)

This is Thievery: Gordon Chang Decries Chinas Didi Crackdown Days After IPO

Beijings recent crackdown on ride-hailing giant Didi Global shows that the overriding priority of the communist regime is control, according to China expert Gordon Chang.

On July 2, the Chinese regimes internet regulator ordered the company to stop signing up new users, pending a security review process. This came just two days after Didi began trading on the New York Stock Exchange, raising $4.4 billion in one of the largest U.S. initial public offerings (IPOs) of the past decade.

Since then, Chinese authorities have pulled the companys apps off mobile stores and fined it for failing to report past merger deals. Meanwhile, its shares have plummeted, trading at 12 percent below their original stock value as of Thursday.

The tightening clampdown demonstrates that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) doesnt really care about money as [much as] people think, Chang, author of The Coming Collapse of China told Epoch TVs American Thought Leaders program at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Texas on July 10. What it really cares about is absolute control, not only over state enterprises but also dominantly private companies.

For Chang, the timing of the move right after Didis IPO amounted to theft. This is thievery because they could have done this before the IPO, he said.

Those who bought into Didi Global  suffered losses because of what China did.

The ride-hailing platform isnt the only company facing the wrath of the Chinese regime. Chinas cybersecurity regulator on July 5 moved against more Chinese technology companies that had recently been listed in New Yorktwo trucking-hailing apps and one online recruitment app.

On July 10, the internet regulator moved towards requiring domestic tech companies to undergo security reviews before listing its shares overseas.

Analysts say that Beijings clampdown reflects its increasing fears that data-rich tech companies may expose sensitive data to foreign governments if the company lists overseas.

Chang said the developments should trigger a major rethink by Wall Street about investing in Chinese stocks. This should especially be the case, he said, given that the regime scuttled the massive planned IPO of Ant Group, the fintech affiliate of Alibaba, when regulators announced an investigation into its lending practices days before it was due to list in Shanghai and Hong Kong.

The business community has had a longstanding interest in expanding relations with China, Chang said. Theres always this hope that China is going to produce profits.

But Chinese leader Xi Jinping is moving the country in another direction, he said, adding that Xi wants the the financial markets and other sectors to be under the regimes thumb.

For him, the Communist Party must be in absolute control of society, and then he must be in absolute control of the Party.
Romanian firefighters are seen near a military Black Hawk helicopter that made an emergency landing in central Bucharest, Romania, on July 15, 2021. (Inquam Photos/Octav Ganea via Reuters)

US Black Hawk Helicopter Makes Emergency Landing in Downtown Bucharest

BUCHARESTA Black Hawk helicopter belonging to the U.S. military made an emergency landing on a Bucharest street on Thursday, tearing down two public street lights and stopping traffic but making no casualties.

The helicopter was part of a group of six which were rehearsing ahead of events to mark Romanian Air Force day and the end of Romanian military presence in Afghanistan on July 2021. Footage from eyewitnesses show it suddenly losing altitude and flying low above cars until landing nearby in a downtown roundabout which traffic police had cleared.

The helicopter signaled it was having technical difficulties, traffic police said.

Romania, a NATO member since 2004, hosts NATO command centers and a U.S. ballistic missile station.

A military Black Hawk helicopter made an emergency landing in central Bucharest, Romania, on July 15, 2021. (Inquam Photos/Octav Ganea via Reuters)

We are working with our Romanian partners to resolve the situation and we will provide more information as it becomes available, the U.S. embassy said in a statement.

Military prosecutors were at the site of the landing and investigating the causes. Traffic will be restricted until the helicopter is removed.

The defense ministry has canceled participation of all aircraft in the two planned ceremonies, ministry spokesman Brigadier General Constantin Spinu told Reuters.

Both ceremonies will be held but without any participation of military aircrafts, Spinu said.

By Luiza Ilie
US Health Official Says COVID-19 Boosters Could Risk More Serious Side Effects

The United States is reviewing the need for a third COVID-19 booster shot among residents who have already been vaccinated but needs to see more data to know if additional shots could raise peoples risk of serious side effects, a U.S. health official said Tuesday.

The official said the second dose for two-shot COVID-19 vaccine regimens was associated with higher rates of side effects, suggesting a third dose could potentially come with even greater risks.

Were keenly interested in knowing whether or not a third dose may be associated with any higher risk of adverse reactions, particularly some of those more severealthough very rareside effects, said Jay Butler, deputy director at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, during a media briefing.

The U.S. government has not made a decision on whether to administer booster shots but sees a greater potential need for them among the elderly and other groups at high risk for severe infection, Butler said.

Pfizer and partner BioNTech plan to ask U.S. regulators within weeks to authorize a booster dose of its COVID-19 vaccine, based on evidence of greater risk of infection six months after inoculation and the spread of the highly contagious Delta variant of the virus.

Butler said he has not seen any evidence of waning immunity to COVID-19 among U.S residents who received shots in December or January.

He added that existing shots provide significant protection against the Delta variant of COVID-19, which was first found in India and has become the dominant strain in the United States.

By Carl ODonnell and Manojna Maddipatla
Suspects in the assassination of Haitian president Jovenel Moise are presented to the media by Hatian authorities in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on July 8, 2021. (STR/AFP via Getty Images)

US Military Trained Suspects Allegedly Involved in Haitian Presidents Assassination: Pentagon

A Pentagon spokesperson said that several suspects who were allegedly involved in the assassination of Haitian President Joivel Moise last week were once trained by the U.S. military.

The suspects who were trained by the U.S. military were Colombian, said Department of Defense (DoD) Lt. Col. Ken Hoffman said in a statement.

After a review of military training databases, a small number of the Colombian individuals detained as part of this investigation had participated in past U.S. military training and education programs, while serving as active members of the Colombian Military Forces, Hoffmans statement added, according to several news reports. Our review is ongoing, so we do not have additional details at this time, he said.

For decades, the United States has trained tens of thousands of military forces across South America, including Colombiaa key regional U.S. ally. Colombia is used as a bulwark by the U.S. against Venezuelas socialist regime as well as the Marxist Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), drug cartels, right-wing paramilitary groups, and other criminal organizations. According to the Congressional Research Service, Congress has approved more than $12 billion in aid to Colombia, mainly via the State and Defense Departments.

Hoffman made note of this fact, saying the DoD routinely conducts training for military men and women representing partner nations from South America, Central America, and the Caribbean.

This training emphasizes and promotes respect for human rights, compliance with the rule of law, and militaries subordinate to democratically elected civilian leadership, Hoffman added.

An armed Haitian Army troop guards the entrance of the General Directorate of the police where the suspects of the assassination of Haitis President Jovenel Moise are detained, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti on July 10, 2021. (Ricardo Arduengo/Reuters)

Police stand guard under an overpass in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on July 12, 2021. (Fernando Llano/AP Photo)

Its not the first federal agency that has a connection to the attack.

A Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) spokesperson earlier this week confirmed that one of the suspects was a former informant to the agency. The DEA hasnt responded to several requests for comment.

At times, one of the suspects in the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise was a confidential source to the DEA, a DEA official told said Tuesday. DEA is aware of reports that President Moises assassins yelled DEA at the time of their attack. These individuals were not acting on behalf of DEA, they added.

Moise, 53, and his wife were attacked at about 1 a.m. local time on July 7 at their residence in Port-au-Prince, Prime Minister Claude Joseph said in a statement last week. In the days after the assassination, more than a dozen individualsincluding several American citizenswere arrested in connection to the attack.

The security situation of the country is under the control of the Haitian National Police and the Haitian Armed Forces, the prime minister said in the statement. All measures are being taken to guarantee the continuity of the State and to protect the nation. Democracy and the Republic will triumph.

Haitian authorities arrested two Haitian-American men last week, identified as 55-year-old Joseph Vincent and 35-year-old James Solages. They were charged with joining 26 Colombians in the fatal attack on Moise.

The Epoch Times has contacted the Department of Defense for comment.

Reuters contributed to this report.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken delivers remarks at the National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence Global Emerging Technology Summit in Washington, on July 13, 2021. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

US Rejects China Maritime Claims, Calls for ASEAN Action on Burma

HANOIThe United States rejects the Chinese regimes unlawful maritime claims in the South China Sea and stands with Southeast Asian countries facing Chinese coercion, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Wednesday.

The Chinese regime rejected Blinkens comments, which he made in an address in a video conference with foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Nations (ASEAN), as irresponsible and aimed at provoking discord.

Blinken also said the United States had deep concerns about the situation in Burma (also known as Myanmar) and urged the group to take action to end violence and restore democracy there.

The meeting with the 10-member bloc, which includes Burma, is the first since the Biden administration took office in January and comes amid concerns among diplomats and others that Washington has not been paying sufficient attention to a region that is crucial to its strategy to counter an increasingly aggressive Chinese regime.

ASEAN has been leading the main diplomatic effort on Burma since a Feb. 1 coup plunged it into turmoil.

Protesters set off smoke grenades to block the view from snipers in Sanchaung, Yangon, Burma, on March 3, 2021. (Reuters)

Burmas junta has shown little sign of heeding what ASEAN called a five-point consensus, reached in April, which seeks an end to violence, political talks and the nomination of a regional special envoy to Burma.

Blinken urged ASEAN to take immediate action on the consensus and appoint the envoy, State Department spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement.

Blinken asked for the release of all those unjustly detained in Burma and the restoration of its democratic transition, Price said.

On the disputed South China Sea, Blinken emphasized the U.S. rejection of Chinas unlawful maritime claims and said the United States stands with Southeast Asian claimants in the face of coercion, Price said.

Welcome Embrace

The Chinese regime claims vast swathes of the South China Sea via its unilaterally declared, U-shaped, nine-dash line which overlaps with the exclusive economic zones of Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and the Philippines, all ASEAN members.

Trillions of dollars in trade flow every year through the waterway, which also contains rich fishing grounds and gas fields.

Chinese vessels, believed to be manned by Chinese maritime militia personnel, are seen at Whitsun Reef, South China Sea, on March 27, 2021. (Philippine Coast Guard/National Task Force-West Philippine Sea/Handout via Reuters)

In addition to the South China Sea, the Mekong River has become a new front in U.S.-China rivalry, with Beijing overtaking Washington in both spending and influence over downstream countries at the mercy of its control of the rivers waters.

Price said Blinken pledged continued U.S. support for a free and open Mekong region under the Mekong-U.S. Partnership.

Malaysian Foreign Minister Hishammuddin Hussein said he hoped Wednesdays meeting signaled a refreshed commitment to U.S. multilateral cooperation.

We understand that multilateralism was not a key focus for the previous administration, but the Biden administrations embrace of multilateral cooperation is a welcome development, Hishammuddin said, according to a copy of his delivered remarks.

This path is the only way forward to ensure stability, peace, prosperity and security for our region.

By James Pearson
Security guards stand at the gates of what is officially known as a vocational skills education center in Huocheng County in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China, on Sept. 3, 2018. (Thomas Peter/Reuters)

US Senate Passes Bill to Ban All Xinjiang Goods Over CCPs Rights Abuses

The U.S. Senate unanimously approved a bill on July 14 that would block the import of all products from Chinas northwestern region, where at least 1 million Uyghurs and ethnic minorities are being held in secretive political reeducation camps.

The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, a bipartisan measure, would create a rebuttable presumption assuming goods manufactured in Xinjiang are made with forced labor and therefore banned under the 1930 Tariff Act, unless otherwise certified by U.S. authorities.

In a statement, Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), who introduced the measure alongside Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), said that its advancement will send a strong message to Beijing and any international company that profits from forced labor in Xinjiang  no more.

The United States would not turn a blind eye to the Chinese Communist Partys (CCP) crimes against humanity, nor allow corporations a free pass to profit from those horrific abuses, Rubio said.

The Republican senator said that once the legislation passes the House and is signed into law by President Joe Biden, the United States will have more tools to prevent products made with forced labor from entering the countrys supply chains.

We cannot afford any further delay, and I call on my colleagues in the House to promptly send this bill to the President, Rubio said.

Democratic and Republican aides said they expected the measure would get strong support in the House, noting the House approved a similar measure by a nearly unanimous vote last year.

No American corporation should profit from these abuses. No American consumers should be inadvertently purchasing products from slave labor, Merkley said in a statement.

The legislation would go beyond steps already taken to secure U.S. supply chains in the face of allegations of rights abuses in China, such as existing bans on Xinjiang tomatoes, cotton, and some solar products.

Chinese regime authorities have been accused of committing genocide against Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities in the Xinjiang region.

Former Uyghur detainees have told The Epoch Times that they were subject to torture, forced to denounce their faith, and forced to pledge loyalty to the CCP while held for unknown reasons in often overcrowded facilities.

Uyghursthe majority of whom are Sunni Muslimalongside other ethnic minorities such as Tibetans, as well as religious believers who remain outside state control, including house Christians and Falun Gong adherents, have long been targeted by the CCP for transformation through reeducation.

China denies the accusations of genocide and forced labor in the region.

Uyghurs and other predominantly Muslim ethnic minorities in Xinjiang are being forced into labor, tortured, imprisoned, forcibly sterilized, and pressured to abandon their religious and cultural practices by the Chinese government. No American corporation should profit from these abuses. No American consumers should be inadvertently purchasing products from slave labor, Merkley said.

The Uyghur Human Rights Project said in a statement that its grateful to the U.S. Senate for passing the measure, which will make it more difficult for China to continue to export forced labor goods.

Reuters contributed to this report.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews announces a snap five day lockdown for the state during a press conference in Melbourne, Australia on July 15, 2021 . (Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

Victoria Enters Lockdown For Fifth Time

Victoria will enter a snap lockdown from midnight tonight as the government tries to control the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant in the state.

With a heavy heart, but with an absolute necessity and determination to beat this Delta strain, just as we did a few weeks ago, the Chief Health Officer and the public health team recommended to me to lock Victoria down, Premier Daniel Andrews announced to the press.

The lockdown will begin at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, July 15 and last until 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, July 20. Andrews said restrictions in regional Victoria could ease prior to Tuesday if it is deemed safe to do so.

The state-wide lockdown restrictions will be identical to the previous lockdown in May, so businesses that had to close previously will close for the new lockdown.

Were doing it the way we always do it, Andrews said. That was successful then; this will be successful now.

It will be the fifth lockdown for the state overall and the third of 2021.

On Thursday morning, COVID-19 Commander Jeroen Weimar revealed that a group of infected removalists passed on the virus to other people in a residential building.

Weimar said the group of people infected people did not know each other that it appeared to be stranger-to-stranger transmission.

Another cluster of community transmission occurred when a man contracted the virus when speaking to a family member who had recently returned from New South Wales.

Andrews said there were currently 18 active COVID-19 cases connected to the two clusters.

He also said he would talk to the federal government to discuss support payments and that he was confident Victorians would receive them.

What I think we have done is remind the Commonwealth government that at every point, they have said that packages of support and measures and policies and plans are based on need. Well, there is a need in Victoria from 11.59 p.m. tonight, and we expect the Commonwealth government will step up and help those people who need the help, Andrews said.

However, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Thursday said that federal support would not kick in until a lockdown reaches its second week.
We Have to Stand Up: Rex Steninger on Defending the Constitution

Americans need to take action to defend the Constitution with the countrys future at stake, says Rex Steninger, the commissioner of Elko County, Nevada.

We have to stand up, wake up, start pushing back or were going to lose this country, Steninger told The Epoch Times.

Two Nevada counties passed a resolution last month declaring that federal officials were required to obey and observe the limitations outlined in the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

I think restrictions imposed during the pandemic was the catalyst for it. But they told us at one point we couldnt leave our houses, they told us we couldnt gather in groups, they told us to close our churchesthose are all violations of the First Amendment, just as simple as that, he said.

They tell us to close our businesses in violation of the Fifth Amendment that protects us against seizure of our property without the due process of law. The pandemic restrictions were more the final straw. Through the years, theres just been so many abuses. The governments been [ticking] away at the Second Amendment for years. Now, most recently theyve been passing the red flag laws and confiscate peoples guns and they dont even get a chance to address the charges, he added.

Nevadas so-called red flag law, which enables a judge to order someone be forced to relinquish their firearms, went into effect last year.

Elko County in 2019 passed a resolution to establish the county as a sanctuary for the Second Amendment in response to the red flag law. Critics say such actions undermine the rule of law, but doing so was fair game after liberal counties and states declared themselves sanctuaries against some immigration enforcement laws, Steninger said.

Lander County also passed a similar resolution.

This comes down to a point in Elko County we dont want enforce laws we disagree with. People say that thats improper, but thats the story of our country too, really, you rebel against unjust law, he said.

Steninger will be one of the speakers in a panel discussion held by The Epoch Times on the importance of defending the Constitution.

The commissioner plans to draw on the expertise of the other panelists to guide him in overseeing a constitutional county.

For example, instead of following all those directives through the pandemic, how could we push back, and how should we push back in the future if it happens again, he said.

Panel discussion: Defending the Constitution: Why It Matters Now More Than Ever

Date: Monday, July 19, 2021

Time: 6 p.m.8 p.m.

For more information about the panel discussion, please visit epochevents.us.
What If That Was My Dad?: Girls Set Up Lemonade Stand to Support Fallen Officers Family

After losing a local hero, two young friends from Colorado channeled their grief into a fundraising drive. The girls, devastated by the fatal shooting of an Arvada police officer, opened a lemonade stand to raise money for the fallen officers family and raised almost $2,000.

Ashley Conn claimed her daughter Scarlett Reust, 9, struggled to make sense of the loss of Police Officer Gordon Beesley, who was fatally shot on June 21 by a suspect who expressed a hatred for police, according to a statement from the department.

They know police as their heroes and their protectors, and for one of them to pass like that is really just kind of confusing, Conn told Fox News.

Scarlett immediately expressed to her mom, What if that was my dad? He had kids  like, what if that was my dad? However, she quickly turned her grief into a plan of action.

Scarlett Reust and Addyson Elliot, two best friends from Colorado, set up a lemonade stand to raise money for the family of a fallen police officer. (Courtesy of Colorados 17th Judicial District Attorney)

Teaming up with her best friend, 10-year-old Addyson Elliot, Scarlett decided to erect a lemonade stand in central Commerce City. The girls also printed t-shirts that read, Lemonade for Officer Beesley, charging 50 cents a glass from their stand adorned with a large American flag.

Beesley, survived by a wife and two children, was a 19-year veteran of the Arvada Police Department. A school resource officer who once earned the Arvada Employee of the Year award, Beesley was also known for accompanying kids to school on their bicycles in the absence of guardians, to make sure they arrived safely.

After the success of their first day, Scarlett and Addyson returned for two more days selling lemonade under the Colorado sun. They met dozens of mourners and well-wishers along the way. Some knew Beesley and shared memories; others who were moved by the girls initiative simply gave generously.

Conn claimed that one teenage customer, whose own father was an officer, emptied her wallet, according to Conn.

We sold about six jugs, Scarlett told KDVR. People came and didnt even want any lemonade, but just gave us money. It just grew and grew and grew.

The girls motive remained simple: We wanted [the Beesleys] to feel happy even though they lost a very good family member, said Addyson.

Colorados 17th Judicial District Attorneys Office even helped publicize the fundraiser on Facebook. Our staff chipped in to help the girls reach their goal, they posted. We are so glad that Addyson and Scarlett live in our area. They are shining examples for our Adams County community and beyond.

At the end of June, Scarlett and Addyson presented their earningsover $1,800to Arvadas chief of police, Link Strate. The officers were teary-eyed according to Conn. Although they were broken on losing one of their brothers, they felt really warm with the girls initiative. The money will reach Beesleys family via The Colorado Fallen Hero Foundation.

The industrious girls generosity has sent waves of positivity through their grieving community, and to Beesleys nearest and dearest.

For those two little girls to think of him and to work on that lemonade stand, and to give their proceeds to Officer Beesleys family, will make a statement to this department that I dont believe I can express, said Strate.

Share your stories with us at emg.inspired@epochtimes.com, and continue to get your daily dose of inspiration by signing up for the Epoch Inspired newsletter at TheEpochTimes.com/newsletter
Wildland firefighters watch and take video with their cellphones as a plane drops fire retardant on Harlow Ridge above the Lick Creek Fire, southwest of Asotin, Wash., on July 12, 2021. (Pete Caster/Lewiston Tribune via AP)

Wildfire Threatens 1,500 Homes in Washington State

A wildfire threatening more than 1,500 homes near Wenatchee, Washington, has grown to 14 square miles and was about 10 percent contained.

The Washington State Department of Natural Resources says about 200 firefighters are battling the Red Apple Fire.

The fire was threatening homes, apple orchards, and an electrical substation, but no structures have been lost.

Chelan County sheriffs deputies executed a search warrant at a home Wednesday believed to be connected to the start of the wildfire.

The cause remains under investigation.

The fire started Tuesday evening and is burning grass and sage near US Highway 2.

Residents of more than 1,500 homes were under evacuation notifications.
Xi Jinping Raises Food Security to National Security Concern

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) leader Xi Jinping recently emphasized the problem of food security, saying that ensuring grain security should be a national security concern.

On July 9, Xi presided over The 20th Meeting of the Central Comprehensively Deepening Reforms Commission, admitting that it is more urgent than ever to ensure the independence and control of seeds, the string of food security should be tightened more than ever before, and even elevating the grain security to a strategic level of national security.

Li Yanming, China issues expert and commentator in America, told The Epoch Times Chinese-language edition that the issue of food security being raised by Xi personally to a strategic level of national security is a testament to the existence of a food problem in China.

A few days before Xis speech, Xinhua, the official media of the CCP, published a high-profile article entitled Xi Jinpings Story of Good-living standard: The Rice Bowl of the Chinese People Must Be in Our Own Hands at All Times, which was also spread by other mouthpiece media in China.

Serious Potential Problems on Food Supply

China relies on imports for food and seed sources, said Li Yanming. Last year, in addition to the CCP virus epidemic, many areas in China suffered floods, including the main food-producing areas in the middle and lower parts of the Yangtze River. Food imports increased drastically last year, even much more than in previous years he said.

Its estimated that China had a shortage of food last year, said Li Yanming. But the CCP obviously will not admit that it does not tell the truth, nor will it allow the Chinese media to tell the truth.

According to data from the General Administration of Customs, last year, Chinas food imports exceeded 140 million tons for the first time. Among them, corn and wheat imports reached a record high of 11.3 million tons and 8.38 million tons respectively, double in comparison to the last two years.

In May, China imported 6.07 million tons of grain and grain flour, a 143.9 percent increase. From January to May, the accumulated imports of grain and grain flour total 27.11 million tons, an increases of 190.5 percent, among which:

corn was 11.73 million tons, an increase of 322.8 percent;

wheat 4.61 million tons, an 88.9 percent increase;

barley 4.65 million tons, increase of 139.1 percent;

sorghum 3.69 million tons, a 237 percent increase.

Chinas continuously growing import of food is pushing up global food prices. Britains Financial Times reported on June 3 and citing several expert opinions, said that Chinas soaring appetite for grain and soybeans is adding to upward pressure on prices, along with a severe drought in Brazil and growing demand for vegetable oil for biodiesel.

According to a report released by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations on June 3, The FAO Food Price Index averaged 127.1 points in May 2021, 4.8 percent higher than in April and 39.7 percent higher than in May 2020.

Grain Security is a Long-Term Problem for CCP

Mike Sun, China investment strategist and China foreign trade expert, told The Epoch Times Chinese-language edition that when it comes to the food crisis, in the short term, Chinas food rations may not be a major problem when viewed by international standards that consider a food security crisis as families being severely malnourished or spending all of their income on meeting their most basic food needs.

However, Chinas food imports have skyrocketed since last year, including feed grains and rations such as wheat, which does indicate a massive shortage of food in China, said Mike Sun.

Viewed from the tone of Xi Jinpings speech, grain security is the biggest concern because China relies heavily on imported seeds for much of its agriculture, and without imported seeds, some agricultural products are almost paralyzed, said Sun.

On March 8, Fortnightly Chat Magazine, by the Xinhua News Agency, published an article saying that Chinas seed industry is weak in innovation and overly reliant on foreign seeds. Foreign seeds account for more than 80 percent of the total and pose the risk of receiving discontinued seeds.

Chinas peppers, onions, carrots, tomatoes, broccoli, and many other vegetables rely on foreign seeds for propagation. The article cited data from the China Seed Trade Association, that said in 2019, China imported $224 million in vegetable seeds, accounting for more than half of its seed imports. The dependence on imported broccoli seeds is more than 80 percent, and the dependence on beet and ryegrass seeds is over 95 percent.
Young Autistic Man Stranded out of State Helped Home by Chain of Kind Police Officers in Bizarre Story

A young man with autism, who found himself stranded in Alabama, was delivered safely home to Indianapolis, thanks to a chain of kind law enforcement officers.

Police described a bizarre story that ended happilyeven if most of his story was determined to be false.

The 23-year-old, Sangre Bolin, had called Montgomery police on the week of July 4, claiming hed been heading to Florida with friends when they physically pushed him out of the car and robbed him at a gas station in Montgomery, the Morgan County Sheriffs Office stated.

He was left with nothing but the clothes on his body  no phone, no money, he reportedly said, calling himself Willinaus Bolinactually his brothers name, they later learned.

The Montgomery Police Department responded by helping him contact his family in Indianapolis, before sending him on a chain reaction of kindness home.

The officers took him to a Waffle House in Vestavia Hills and connected him with the Vestavia Hills Police Department, who tried to purchase him a plane ticket home but found none were available.

So, the officers transported Mr. Bolin to the Fultondale Police Department, who then took him to a Loves truck stop to meet up with a Cullman County Sheriffs deputy, who bought Bolin something to eat and drink. He was then picked up by Morgan County Sheriffs Offices own Sgt. Ferguson.

From there, the chain of custody continued: Sgt. Ferguson rendezvoused with Limestone County Sheriffs Offices Lt. Flanagan at the Huntsville-Browns Ferry exit on Interstate 65, who sped Mr. Bolin on his way. Sgt. Ferguson wished him well on the rest of his trip and slipped him $20  and then they were off to the next link of journey home, Morgan County Sheriffs Office stated.

In an update on Wednesday, July 7, the Sheriffs Office stated that Mr. Bolin finally made it home after an officer in Nashville connected him with good Samaritan truck driver Joe Tillman, who delivered him safely to his mother and sister in Indiana.

During the ride, Tillman spoke with Bolin and later described him as quite the storyteller, Fox News reported.

I was straight up with him and told him he could be straight up with me, he said, as police reportedly told Fox News. Said his friend picked him up with another girl and took his money and kicked him out in Montgomery.

Couldnt get much more out of him than that. He was very appreciative of the help from the police departments along the way and hopefully this gives him a better outlook for future decisions.

In their update, Morgan County Sheriffs Office noted that, while they were happy to have helped Mr. Bolin get home, this young mans story may be inaccurate, if not an outright lie.

It appears his mother still has both legs and his deceased father  is still alive, they wrote. However, our agency, and others, acted in good faith based on the information we were given and we were happy to do it  and would do it again.

Unfortunately  (this may shock you) we get lied to a lot but as they say  no good deed goes unpunished.

They added, We are glad he is home and hope some good will come from the kindness he has been shown.

Share your stories with us at emg.inspired@epochtimes.com, and continue to get your daily dose of inspiration by signing up for the Epoch Inspired Newsletter at TheEpochTimes.com/newsletter
DECATUR, Ala. (AP)  A man sought in a killing that happened in Alabama two months ago has been returned to the state to face charges following his arrest in South Carolina, police said Thursday.

Antone Lamar Yarbrough, 27, of Decatur was jailed on a capital murder charge in Morgan County after being extradited following his arrest by federal marshals in Myrtle Beach on June 29. He was accused in the shooting death of Chester Lee Jordan, 59, on May 9, police said.
NORWALK  After more than a decade of planning mishaps and five years of litigation, the city reached a settlement with the owner of an Isaacs Street property initially pinned for use in the Wall Street Place redevelopment project.

John Dias, former owner of 20-26 Isaacs St., filed a lawsuit against the city of Norwalk in 2017, claiming he suffered a loss of business and revenue when the Isaacs and Leonard streets municipal parking lots were demolished.

Dias purchased the property in 1999 for $660,000, according to court documents. It is unclear what the terms of the recent settlement include.

The loss of parking was compounded with Dias hesitancy to seek new tenants as he assumed the buildings would be purchased and subsequently demolished by POKO Partners, LLC, which was spearheading the Wall Street Place project, according to court documents.

Dias filed his lawsuit against the city for inverse condemnation, unjust enrichment and unjust enrichment with special relationship in 2017, according to court documents. Attorney Daniel Benjamin, of Benjamin, Gold & Troyb, P.C law firm in Stamford, representing Dias, did not respond to a request for comment Wednesday.

The Common Council approved a settlement agreement between Norwalk and Dias for an undisclosed amount at Tuesdays meeting.

However, this remains in process as the parties continue to work through the court system, city spokesperson Josh Morgan said. No further details can be provided at this time.

The plot was first identified by the city as integral to the Wall Street Place plan and notice was given to Dias in March 2006 the city Redevelopment Agency has plans to acquire the property, according to court documents. The 20-26 Isaacs St. buildings would be demolished to allow the construction of a through street.

An agreement was made for POKO to purchase the land for $2.5 million in 2008, which fell through following the financial recession and death of a POKO partner, according to court documents.

Over the next decade, the property fell into disrepair and Dias claimed he was not able to find a buyer and hesitant to bring in businesse, as he believed the propertys purchase and demolition was imminent, according to court documents.

It was this period of uncertainty that led to Dias claims in the lawsuit, which the city contested in its motion for summary judgment in November 2020.

The Plaintiff claims that, as a result of the Defendants actions, he could not sell it, he could not rent it, and he could not run his business on it, the motion read. (T)he Plaintiff failed to provide any evidence that the Subject Property was forced to remain economically idle, that all economic beneficial uses of the Subject Property were precluded and there was a total destruction in the value of the Subject Property as a result of the Defendants actions or inaction.

In 2019, the property was vacant and rundown and was removed from the Land Disposition Agreement in July 2020, according to the motion. In September 2020, the parcel was sold to the company of Jason Milligan, who owns other property in the area, for $1.5 million, according to court documents.

Theyre bullies, Milligan said of city officials. (Dias) had a very successful business over there for years and a combination of indifference and arrogance put him out of business, tied him up for years and years with the hope hed get paid and sell the property and never did.

Milligan said his plans for the property are currently uncertain and dependent on Norwalks next move with the property in the area still under the LDA.

Depends on if we will ever have an honest conversation, Milligan said. My plans should be in coordination with all the other people involved. I would love it if the city and Redevelopment Agency would get out of the way. Theyre so heavy-handed and have such a tight grip on everything, you cant really do much.

Dias returned to Portugal in 2010 and resides there most of the year. His son, Phillip Dias, is his power of attorney but is not involved in day-to-day business, according to court documents.

abigail.brone@hearstmediact.com
The state is opposing a court action filed by the attorney representing Michelle Troconis to get access to sealed hearing transcripts in the divorce and custody case involving Fotis and Jennifer Dulos.

Assistant Attorneys General Alma Rose Nunley and Robert Deichert filed a motion Wednesday to dismiss Troconis action seeking the transcripts on the basis that her attorney, Jon Schoenhorn, improperly sought relief from a civil court when he should have filed his objection to the continued sealing of the transcript in family court where the divorce proceedings took place.

Nunley and Deichert wrote in this motion that the court lacked jurisdiction because it could require this court to invalidate the sealing order entered by another judge of the Superior Court in a separate case.

In their filing, the assistant attorney generals included 10 pages of the transcript hearing that they say should remain sealed from public view. In the portion of the transcript that was released Wednesday, family court Judge Donna Nelson Heller ordered the courtroom closed and the report sealed. She also ordered any audio recordings sealed, the transcript shows.

Schoenhorn filed a civil writ in late April compelling court reporter Melanie Moss, who works at the Stamford Judicial District, to provide a court transcript of the two-day hearing on a psychological report, which was meant to aid a judge in family court proceedings.

The hearing, held days before Jennifer Dulos went missing on May 24, 2019, was canceled after its author, Dr. Stephen Herman, refused to continue his testimony.

Stamford Judicial District Judge John Blawie agreed to give Schoenhorn the psychological report in May. Schoenhorn also wants Moss or her successor to provide the transcript of the hearing, which was later dismissed not long before the entire divorce case was dismissed following Jennifer Dulos disappearance.

The psychological report had been under seal since the hearing in May 2019. Moss and the assistant attorney generals contend the transcript of the hearing is also sealed.

Schoenhorn likened the stance of the state to a scene in the movie Animal House.

The dean discloses the fraternity is on double secret probation and that they have no right to appeal their expulsion from campus, Schoenhorn said. In their own memo, they include part of the transcript they wouldnt give me.

Schoenhorn said Moss declined to provide with a transcript of the proceedings in March. Although the report has been sealed, Schoenhorn said there appeared to be no prohibition against the public attending the hearing, which would make the transcript public.

To the plaintiffs knowledge the May 14 and May 17, 2019, public courtroom proceedings were never ordered sealed or closed to the public, Schoenhorn said in the writ filed in April.

By refusing to provide him with the transcript, Moss acted in violation of her statutory authority and the First and Fourteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution, Schoenhorn said.

Schoenhorn contends that Heller should have followed the correct procedure for sealing the hearing including providing advance notice to anyone who wanted to object.

Troconis, Fotis Dulos former girlfriend, and attorney Kent Mawhinney are the remaining defendants charged with conspiracy to commit murder in the disappearance. Both have pleaded not guilty and their cases remain before the court.

Fotis Dulos, the estranged husband of Jennifer Dulos, died on Jan. 30, 2020, several weeks after he was charged with the kidnapping and murder of Jennifer Dulos.

Fotis and Jennifer Dulos were embroiled in a contentious divorce and custody battle over their five children when she disappeared.

Investigators believe Fotis Dulos was lying in wait for his estranged wife to return home from dropping off their children at school the morning of May 24, 2019, according to arrest warrants.

While Jennifer Dulos remains have never been found, the states chief medical examiner said she would not have survived the attack without immediate medical attention, according to arrest warrants.

The night of the disappearance Fotis Dulos and Troconis were captured on Hartford surveillance footage making a series of stops, arrest warrants read. Fotis Dulos was seen dumping bags, some of which were later recovered and contained his estranged wifes blood and clothing, according to arrest warrants.

Investigators said they also found Jennifer Dulos blood on the seat of a pickup truck, which belonged to one of Fotis Dulos employees, that they believe was used the day of the crime, the arrest warrants read.

Troconis is due back in criminal court on Sept. 14.
It hasnt been that many years ago since we whispered in hushed tones about someones mental health status, but my how far weve come. Did my eyes really just see a Petco commercial emphasizing the importance of pet mental health? Weve come a long way since One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest.

I remember when we were first introduced to Covid. Suddenly the whole world experienced mental health and trauma challenges. In fact, if someone were to ask me what it is like to live with a psychiatric disability, Id say I have to fiercely protect my health and its a lot like living in the midst of a pandemic.

Constantly, conditions are changing with very real potential for crisis. On a daily and sometimes moment-by-moment basis, I have to assess for both internal and external threats to my wellbeing. Ive become quite skilled at developing and deploying personal mitigation strategies.

For decades now, I have seldom been able to fathom a day when I need not be so vigilant about protecting my mental and emotional health. Just like living in the middle of pandemic conditions, failure to exercise the utmost caution can have irrevocable consequences. Yet times are changing.

I recently ran across a job posting with the Washington Times newspaper for a mental health project engagement editor. I read the description and, oh, how my heart soared! The new hire will be able to put their ideas to the test as part of a new team covering mental health and community engagement.

Yep, times are changing.

Even within the mental health community, strides are being made to become all encompassing. The National Council on Behavioral Health recently changed its name to National Council on Mental Wellbeing. For years, providers have ignored consumer objections to the undesirable terminology behavioral health and now exist glimmers of hope that even this is beginning to change.

Public attitudes significantly shifted when we lost icon, Robin Williams, to suicide. Many celebrities have died from suicide, but none with Williams legendary status. While Naomi Osakas recent choice to prioritize her mental health garnered some initial criticism, in the end, she was overwhelmingly supported for her decision to withdraw from stressful press interviews and the French Open.

Weve made substantial progress in the two decades since I was diagnosed with multiple psychiatric labels. We still have problems. The National Council doesnt have any prosumer representation on their board of directors, nor does the Madison County Mental Health Board have consumer representation. We dont yet have equity, but we are moving in the right direction.

I wonder what will happen within the next couple of decades. Will I live long enough to see society elect people with disclosed mental health conditions? Will the Illinois mental health system ever prioritize consumer advisory councils? Will the state legislature create an Ombuds office? Will Congress fund prosumer mental health agencies to the extent we fund recovery community organizations?

Yes, times will be changing once again.

AJ French is an activist for persons experiencing poverty and in need of healthcare and human services. She serves as President & CEO for Gift of Voice, a mental health and trauma recovery training center operated by people in recovery. She has been elected to the Illinois Mental Health Planning & Advisory Council (IMHPAC) and the Protection and Advocacy for Persons with Mental Illnesses (PAIMI) Council. French is frequently sought out for subject matter expertise in mental health recovery.
EDWARDSVILLE  With a new art exhibit and a newly remodeled resale shop, Main Street Community Center is open again and is as busy as ever.

The center, which was closed to the public throughout much of the pandemic, has returned to its full schedule of events and services for seniors.

Were pretty much back to our regular schedule, including card games, MSCC Executive Director Sara Berkbigler said. The only thing that were still not doing is congregate dining here at the center. If we have snacks for different events, they are individually wrapped. If we do lunch meetings, well probably serve box lunches.

For the first time in more than 16 months, works of art by a local artist are gracing the walls of the MSCC.

The featured artist is 83-year-old Carole Anne (Davis) Kotkiewicz of Glen Carbon, whose paintings are now on display.

Lin Dillier, who is a friend of mine that I volunteer with for Partners for Pets, shared some pictures on social media that her mother had painted, MSCC Assistant Director Patty Barney said. I thought they were amazing. I asked Lin if her mother, Carole, would like to have her art featured here at the center and Lin said she thought it was a great idea.

About eight years ago, Carole started to get some dementia and she moved in with her daughter and her husband. She had a stroke last winter but shes still painting.

Kotkiewicz was born on May 6, 1938, in Muskegon, Michigan. She lived on and visited nearby farms in her youth, where she fell in love with horses. She started doing some painting as a teenager.

After graduating from high school in 1956, Kotkiewicz attended Muskegon College for a short time and then enlisted in the Navy. She continued to dabble in art as time permitted.

She was honorably discharged from the Navy, where she had met her future husband, in 1961, and she and Edward Kotkiewicz were married on Nov. 18, 1961. They started a family with the arrival of their son in November of 1962 and their daughter in January of 1964.

Family life and full-time employment kept Kotkiewicz busy, but she continued to paint and draw. After her children grew up and started their own families, she started taking classes at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville while working full-time for SIUE in the library system.

When she retired in 1999, she was able to focus more on her lifelong love of art and painting.

Barney is impressed with Kotkiewiczs artistic talent, as well the variety of the subject matter and the many different media she has used.

There are a lot of landscapes and animals and things like that, but she loves in paint in oil and she also likes watercolors, Barney said. There are some charcoal drawings as well.

You look at some artists and you instantly recognize their work. But Caroles work is really diverse, and she doesnt seem to have a certain hallmark. She can do everything.

Sadly, many of the pieces that Kotkiewicz painted in her younger days were destroyed by flooding in her basement where the art was kept. But she and her family cherish what they do have.

Her drawings and paintings were, and continue to be, her favorite thing to do, Dillier said. Both have been very instrumental in healing after the stroke.

The people who come to the center to view Kotkiewiczs exhibit also have a chance to do some shopping, as the Main Street Resale Boutique will have its grand reopening from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday.

The newly decorated shop features mens and womens clothing, jewelry, purses, scarves, household decor, childrens toys and books and more.

During the pandemic, which has lasted longer than any of us thought it would, we had a yard sale last summer and sold everything we had in stock, Berkbigler said. We took the time to renovate the room and freshen it up a little bit and started accepting new items about a month ago.

Most items are $1 to $5 or are marked otherwise. We dont have a lot of space, so were particular about having good quality items. All of the proceeds come back to help us support programs for seniors and adults with disabilities.

Remodeling the boutique has been a labor of love for MSCC volunteers Judy McClew, Susan Coffey, Pam Podstawa and Marilyn Schaecher, who have worked on the project for several months. Another volunteer, Jack Burns, assisted with the hardware and construction.

The walls have been stripped and completely painted and there was a large cabinet that we removed, McClew said. We added a mirror so if you want to try something on, you can go in the bathroom and change and come back and take a look at it.

After everything was sold at the garage sale last year, we started again with zero. Susan and Pam do all of the jewelry and I do things like matching some out of the outfits with purses or scarves or other accessories. Marilyn has a background as a fashion buyer in Chicago, so she puts things together very well.

McClew and the other volunteers are especially of the quality of the items for sale in the Resale Boutique.

We ask people we know for donations and go through them, McClew said. What is really nice, we keep, and what we dont keep, we donate to another place such as Glen-Ed Pantry. Almost nothing goes in the trash.

The art exhibit and the remodeled shop are among the many changes at MSCC in the past few months.

Another change involved Barney taking over as assistant director of the center.

Patty joined us in a temporary fashion while we were waiting for our new office manager to start and she was filling that role when the assistant directors job opened up, Berkbigler said. She tried it for a while, and she said was ready to take it on full-time.

She has a lot of experience as a volunteer with nonprofits and shes been involved with animal rescue through Partners for Pets, and shes president of their board. About half of her job is volunteer coordination and the other half is overseeing our day-to-day programs.

As always, MSCC is looking for volunteers, and the need is especially vital now that the center is open again.

We need volunteers at our front desk as well as for our activities, so if people are interested in volunteering, we can certainly use them, Berkbigler said.

We have two exercise activities where our volunteers have decided not to come back at this time. One of them is chair yoga and the other is a stretch and move class. We have some people who enjoy those classes, so if anyone is interested in teaching them, they should let us know.

For more information about the center, call 618-656-0300, go to https://mainstcc.org/ or visit Main Street Community Center on Facebook.
On this weeks episode of Segue, Southern Illinois University Edwardsvilles weekly radio program exploring the lives and work of the people on campus and beyond, Chancellor Randy Pembrook interviews Lakesha Butler, PharmD, BCPS, clinical professor of pharmacy practice and director of diversity, equity and inclusion at the School of Pharmacy (SOP).

This episode of Segue airs at 9 a.m. on Sunday, July 18. Listeners can tune into WSIE 88.7 FM The Sound or siue.edu/wsie.

Prior to joining the SOP in 2006, Butler earned a doctorate in pharmacy from Mercer University in Atlanta and completed a pharmacy practice residency at the University of Illinois in Chicago. She teaches patients about the importance of health and vaccines, provides care to uninsured and underinsured patients, and works with students and colleagues to develop cultural competency and awareness of health disparities, while championing anti-racism.

Along with serving in leadership positions at SIUE, Butler has served as president of the National Pharmaceutical Association, and is the sole pharmacist task force member on the National Medical Associations COVID-19 Commission on Vaccines and Therapeutics.

Im impressed that you were named as the sole pharmacist of the National Medical Associations COVID-19 Commission on Vaccines and Therapeutics, begins Pembrook. Can you share how you became involved?

We wanted to provide expertise from a pharmacy lens as it relates to vaccines, explains Butler. During my tenure with the National Pharmaceutical Association, I was intentional with building bridges with several organizations, such as the National Medical Association. There is much more we can accomplish when we work together, and we figured this would be a natural collaboration.

During this time, Butler reached out to the National Medical Association and advocated for a pharmacist to be included on the task force that was initially comprised of all physicians.

The goal of this task force was to first allow minority healthcare providers to feel confident in the vaccine, says Butler. Were the ones that patients in the community come to seek knowledge about vaccination. We gained first-hand knowledge by speaking with vaccine manufacturers to better understand how vaccination may affect some of our minoritized communities.

Now that we understand, we are getting the message out. The vaccine is critical to prevent death and hospitalizations in our communities. We are individuals trained in assessing clinical trial data, and now were educating communities in a variety of ways.

Many people were concerned about the speed in which the vaccine was created, notes Pembrook. Was the development of the vaccine part of the groups conversation?

Absolutely, the quick speed of development put a bad taste in many peoples mouths, answers Butler. However, the vaccines modalities have been researched over many years. We previously had the data, vaccine candidates finished through phase three, and we were then able to determine that the efficacy and safety outweigh the risks associated with deaths and hospitalizations.

Butler encourages the community to look to healthcare professionals and remain informed regarding the vaccine.

Its also important to hear it from individuals you share some commonalities with, adds Butler. Theres a lack of trust, especially in minority communities, that is certainly warranted because of the history of our country. Its important to meet individuals where they are and give them the facts to make an informed decision.

As the SOP diversity officer, what are some initiatives youre working on to improve Black and minority pharmacy students at SIUE and across the country? inquires Pembrook.

There is much work to be done, responds Butler. We still see disparities as it relates to minority students within pharmacy and healthcare. We must use a multi-layered approach and increase the exposure to these fields at a young age.

Part of this initiative includes hosting a summer camp for high school students that exposes them to the healthcare fields SIUE has to offer, such as pharmacy, dental medicine and nursing.

We also incorporated implicit bias training for all of our admissions interviewers, says Butler. We know that everyone has bias, and that bias can manifest in interviews. We are trying to mitigate that by requiring education and training around implicit bias.

Dr. Butler, thank you for representing pharmacy and SIUE at the national level in an incredibly important conversation, says Pembrook. We are lucky to have you as an educator, leader and advocate for our students and colleagues.

Tune in at 9 a.m. on Sunday, July 18 to WSIE 88.7 The Sound to hear the entire conversation.
Sevierville, TN (37876)

Today

Variable clouds with thunderstorms, especially during the afternoon hours. High 84F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low 67F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
Elizabethtown, KY (42701)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. High near 85F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. Low 64F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
Photos by ERIC PILGRIM/Fort Knox News All in attendance stand Tuesday for the playing of the Army Song at the end of a ceremony casing the colors of the 42nd Clearance Company, which will be leaving Fort Knox. Representatives from each of the companies of 19th Engineer Battalion attended the activity at the Sadowski Center.
Ashanti Gibbs was accepted into the National Youth Leadership Forum: Pathways to STEM. Gibbs will be an East Hardin Middle School student this upcoming school year.
That release could not be found.
Ministry mulls vaccine export quota

THAILAND: The National Vaccine Committee (NVC) has agreed in principle with a draft announcement by the Public Health Ministry to set aside an unspecified proportion of COVID-19 vaccines for export.

CoronavirusCOVID-19healthVaccine

By Bangkok Post

Thursday 15 July 2021, 10:42AM

Medical workers prepare COVID-19 vaccinations in Nonthaburi province yesterday. Photo: Chanat Katanyu.

The move followed calls on the government to secure more supplies of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine made by Siam Bioscence Co, the local manufacturer of the vaccine, for locals while the country is facing a grave outbreak crisis.

Drafted under Section 18 of the 2018 National Vaccine Security Act, the ministerial announcement was discussed at yesterdays (July 14) meeting of the NVC, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. The meeting was held at the Public Health Ministry.

The National Vaccine Institute (NVI) and the Department of Disease Control (DDC) have been assigned to review details of the announcement before they bring it back to the next meeting of the NVC, said Nakorn Premsri, director of the NVI.

Both the NVI and the DDC, however, were also asked to negotiate with the AstraZeneca maker to seek a higher proportion of the vaccine for Thailand, said Dr Nakorn.

The NVC will deliberate the draft announcement again along with reviewing results of negotiations assigned to the NVI and the DDC at the meeting, which has yet to be scheduled.

Prohibiting the export of all vaccines produced in the country is possible; but I think that would hurt neighbouring countries and other trade partners of AstraZeneca, said Dr Nakorn.

What will happen if Thailand, on the other hand, happens to be a country desperately waiting for a vaccine and the other country that produces it suddenly decides to ban exports of the vaccine? he said.

We would be angry, which will end up shattering our relations with the countries affected, he said.

Mr Anutin says Thailand needs to have some empathy for its neighbours that are facing a similar COVID-19 crisis.

Thailand isnt barring any exports of the vaccine produced by AstraZeneca. Any decisions on the management of the vaccine supply lie with the vaccine maker, he said.

He was responding to recent calls by groups, including the Pharmacy Council of Thailand, for a ban on exporting the AstraZeneca vaccine to other countries.

Dr Nakorn said earlier that Thailand has been trying to negotiate for 10 million doses of AstraZeneca vaccine a month, the amount required to achieve its plan to reach herd immunity against COVID-19 through a mass vaccination programme.

Most recently, a letter was received from AstraZeneca with a commitment to supply Thailand with 5-6mn doses a month, which means the country has to try to find more supplies from other sources also.

Under a contract signed with AstraZeneca, Thailand will receive all 61mn doses of the COVID-19 vaccine this year, while it isnt specifically stated how many doses will be delivered per month, he said. Given Siam Bioscences production capacity, 180mn doses will be produced per year, or about 15mn doses per month, he said.

Asked how much of the AstraZeneca vaccine was actually supplied to Thailand in recent months under the contract, Dr Nakorn said the vaccine maker sticks to its one-third rule, in which Thailand gets a third of its output, and the rest is exported. The company has entered supply contracts with various other countries in the region.

The actual amount of the vaccine produced isnt necessarily the same from time to time. It depends on the vaccine makers production situation, he said.

He said the NVC also approved a plan to secure by next year 120mn doses of various type of COVID-19 vaccines including the mRNA one that appears to be in high demand among many Thais. The NVC also asked the DDC to speed up securing 100mn doses of the COVID-19 vaccines for this years inoculation as planned, he said.

The Rural Doctor Society (RDS), meanwhile, demanded the government fulfill its promise to procure 15mn doses of COVID-19 vaccines per month.

At least 10mn doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine are needed each month and the other 5mn doses will be the Sinovac COVID-19 vaccine that should only be used as a second choice while supplies of the primary AstraZeneca vaccine arent sufficient, said the RDS. It also urged the government to limit exports of the AstraZeneca vaccine temporarily.

Meanwhile, the Centre for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) yesterday recorded 9,317 new COVID-19 infections and 87 deaths.
Phuket marks another three Sandbox tourist infections

PHUKET: Another three Sandbox tourists have tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of Sandbox tourists who have tested positive for the virus since July 1 to 10, according to the daily COVID situation report issued by the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office (PPHO) report for yesterday (July 14)

COVID-19Coronavirus

By The Phuket News

Thursday 15 July 2021, 10:25AM

Image: PPHO

The PPHO report also marked eight new local infections, bringing the total number of people infected in Phuket since Apr 3 to 797.

All Phuket Sandbox arrivals who test positive after landing in Phuket are not included in the total number of infections on the island, despite testing negative immediately after landing at the airport but testing positive after their first week on the island.

The 797 also does not include six people infected outside Phuket but brought to the island for treatment, or two foreigners who have been recorded as being infected outside the country.

Of the 797 cases recognised since Apr 3, 730 have been released from hospital care while 76 patients remain under medical care and supervision.

So far nine people have died from being infected with COVID-19 since Apr 3, the report noted.

The PPHOs updated map showing the locations of infections across the island since Apr 3 reported as follows:

Wichit - 107 infections

Patong - 81 (was previously marked as 81)

Phuket Town - 86

Rassada - 78

Kathu - 60

Chalong - 54

Rawai - 47

Cherng Talay - 45 (was previously marked as 48)

Thepkrasattri - 38

Srisoonthorn - 39

Kamala - 33

Karon - 33

Koh Kaew - 29

Mai Khao - 12 (was previously marked as 13)

Pa Khlok - 10

Sakhu - 10






Soldiers to man checkpoint onto Phuket

PHUKET: Soldiers from the Royal Thai Army will be called in to help conduct checks of people arriving or departing the island through the Phuket Check Point at Tha Chatchai.

COVID-19CoronavirushealthtourismtransportVaccine

By The Phuket News

Thursday 15 July 2021, 01:19PM

The move was confirmed at a meeting of Phuket Communicable Disease Committee held at the EOC Command Center chaired by Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew yesterday (July 14), said a report by the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office (PPHO).

Also present were Phukt Vice Governor Piyapong Choowong and key island health officials PPHO Chief Dr Kusak Kukiattikoon and Dr Chalermpong Sukontapol, Director of Vachira Phuket Hospital in Phuket Town, the main government hospital on the island.

At the meeting it was agreed to have soldiers from the 41st Military Circle stationed at the checkpoint for three months, possibly even longer through rotation.

However, it was made clear that any soldier used to support officers at the checkpoint must be vaccinated, test negative for COVID-19 and be on Phuket at least 14 days before being assigned to man the checkpoint.

The Royal Thai Navy Third Area Command based at Cape Panwa had already been tasked to oversee checks at the three main ports (Ao Por Pier, Chalong Pier and Rassada Pier) and five yacht mooring areas in Phuket.

The Navy was also already patrolling the waters around the island in three zones, noted the report. Larger vessels are used to patrol the outside zone; the middle zone is patrolled for checking precarious points; and the inner area involves checks at risk locations such as fishing rafts and various water channels.

At the meeting it was revealed that on average 432 people a day had been refused to be allowed onto the island for failing to satisfy the requirements.

The number of people arriving to enter Phuket already had been falling due to the entry requirements, and is expected to fall further due to the higher restrictions for people arriving from 34 provinces that come into effect today (July 15), the meeting noted.

Other measures agreed to help ramp up COVID prevention measures included random inspections conducted on venues regardless of whether the location has been associated with known infections, despite PPHO officials already announcing that they will inspect businesses, shops, schools, mosques and shopping malls until the end of the month.

The meeting was updated on the number of hospital beds available on the island. At present, there are 640 beds available for all types of patients. Of those, 109 beds are occupied, and the remaining 531 beds remain free. Of note, the PPHO as of yesterday (July 14) marked that 76 people were under hospital care or supervision for COVID-19.

The meeting also noted that of 5,156 international arrivals who had entered Phuket under the Phuket Sandbox scheme, 858 were Thai nationals. Of those 14 returned as high-risk contacts.

As of yesterday, the meeting noted that there were seven Phuket Sandbox arrivals who had tested positive for COVID-19. All seven were in local quarantine and waiting for results of a second test.

Governor Narong asked all relevant officials to continue to provide regular reports to support the information aspects of Phuket Sandbox. That included how many people had arrived under the Phuket Sandbox scheme and how many people left early before observing their 14 days on the island.

The meeting was also told that more vaccination doses had been allocated to Phuket by the Ministry of Public Health, with vaccination injections to resume tomorrow (July 16).
Tighter checks, but Phuket rules for travelling to Phang Nga unchanged

PHUKET: People in Phuket who want to travel to Phang Nga for a day trip or even stay overnight need only to show that they are fully vaccinated or have tested negative for COVID-19 in the past seven days in order to be allowed to leave the island, Phuket Vice Governor Piyapong Choowong has confirmed.

COVID-19Coronavirushealthtourismtransport

By The Phuket News

Thursday 15 July 2021, 11:02AM

Officer sat the checkpoihnt stop vehicles to conduct COVID checks. Photo: PR Phuket

The confirmation came as tighter rules for arrivals from 34 provinces designated as red or dark red high-risk COVID zones are brought into effect today (July 15).

However, the rules for entering Phuket when travelling from a yellow or orange province  such as Phuket and Phang Nga  remain unchanged.

People who live in Phuket and go to Phang Nga must present to officers at the Phuket Check Point the certificate showing they are fully vaccinated [or received one injection of the AstraZeneca vaccine] for at least 14 days] or they must show COVID-19 test results proving they have tested negative for COVID-19 within the past seven days. No matter how long they are in Phang Nga, they need to present one of the documents, Vice Governor Piyapong told The Phuket News.

The same requirement applies for when people living in Phuket return to the island from Phang Nga, he added.

They may also need to have something to show officers at the checkpoint to prove that they really are just coming from Phang Nga. The officers will be stricter on checking all arrivals, Vice Governor Piyapong said.

The Phuket News has been informed by people passing through the checkpoint that foreigners in particular are being pulled aside and their documents are being checked thoroughly. Slight delays are expected with the checks being conducted.






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Things to do in the Attleboro area and beyond
JERSEYVILLE  The judges at the Miss Jersey County Fair Queen Pageant had 18-year-old Aubrey McCormick as the underdog until the final portion of the Wednesday evening competition.

But Jerseyville native McCormick, who by her own admission suffers from severe anxiety, won the title by her poised evening gown stage presence and confident pop question answer in front of the packed fairgrounds grandstand.

Several years ago I thought I could never get past speaking on stage. But I did it; I finally did it, McCormick said. That means so much. Words cannot describe it.

McCormick, a student at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and the head lifeguard at Raging Rivers Waterpark, said she hopes she can be an inspiration for others who feel that anxiety holds them back.

I am striving to be that encouragement when people need it, McCormick said. I was that person who did not feel good enough. But I am here now, confident, with a smile on my face.

Seven-year-old Olivia Mooney of Jerseyville was crowned the 2021 Little Miss Jersey County. Mooney won the judges over with her outgoing personality, endearingly honest answers to interview questions, and her stage presence that reminded everyone that pageants can be fun.

Mooney wants to be a fashion designer when she grows up and will charge relatives and friends a quarter for her designs. Her favorite things in life include my stuffed bunnies.

I was part of the three-judge panel that had to choose the Queen from among five contestants and the Little Miss from a field of 14 competitors.

The day began with individual, in-person interviews at the Jersey County Historical Society. Each Queen contestant had a four-minute interview, worth 35 percent of their total score, and each Little Miss contestant had a two-minute interview worth 40 percent. We were free to ask them anything we wanted, and based our ratings on how they responded and their demeanor during the interview.

We were charmed by every Little Miss contestant, including the one who said she likes trout fishing except when the fish pull me into the water, and another who upon leaving remarked, that really made me nervous.

Judge Julie Kinert from Lovington, Illinois joked that the judges should chastise the pageant directors because theyre forcing us to pick just one Little Miss. Judge Christin Hartke from Effingham County wanted to just hug them all.

The queen candidates did well during the interviews and we judges had a couple of front-runners in mind going into the stage competition.

The rest of the queen contest was scored 10 percent for beauty and physique, 20 percent for stage presence, 25 percent for the competitors one-minute speeches, and 10 percent for the unrehearsed pop question. There was no swimsuit competition this year. It was only during the final portion of the on-stage competition that McCormick went from second or third on each judges score sheet to a unanimous first.

Because of the unexpected shift in our choice for queen, he had to tell emcee Lori Hopkins to hold the contestants on stage a minute longer so we could select our updated choices for first and second runner-up.

There were several Little Miss contestants who could have won, and we judges each had our own favorites. In the end, we compared notes and chose Mooney because she was in the top five on every judges list.

In addition to the interviews the Little Miss contestants were scored at 10 percent for beauty, 30 percent for stage presence, and 20 percent to their responses to on-stage questions.

When it was all over, Pageant Director Tiffany Phillips acknowledged that we judges had a very tough decision this year, but was pleased with our choices.

The new Queen and Little Miss will be fantastic ambassadors for our fair, Phillips said. I would like to thank each of you for being a judge.
CHICAGO  Illinois has issued automatic refunds to nearly 350,000 taxpayers who electronically filed their 2020 Illinois Individual Income Tax Returns prior to a newly enacted federal unemployment tax exemption.

The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 included a retroactive provision making the first $10,200 per taxpayer  up to $20,400 married, filing jointly  of unemployment benefits nontaxable for returns with a modified Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of less than $150,000. The provision was enacted after tax filing season opened on Feb. 12, 2021.

Illinois was the second state to recalculate electronically filed 2020 individual income tax returns and notify taxpayers who filed before March 15, 2021 of the systemic adjustment of their AGI.

By auto adjusting the refunds, we estimate having saved close to $1.5 million given the amount of time and the workforce that would have been required to process the thousands of amended returns, said Illinois Department of Revenue Director David Harris. This does not include the time and cost that taxpayers would have incurred while filing their own amended returns or hiring a professional.

By the end of July, IDOR plans to notify an estimated 3,300 taxpayers who filed paper tax returns prior to the implementation of the federal unemployment exclusion of the need to file amended returns to qualify for any possible refunds.

For taxpayers who filed electronically on or after March 15 and included the unemployment exclusion on their federal and state individual income tax returns, no additional filing changes were required. Taxpayers who filed electronically on or after March 15 but did not include the unemployment exclusion when calculating their AGI were required to file an amended return to adjust their AGI.

Illinois tax filers who claim the Illinois Earned Income Credit (EIC) may also be eligible for additional refunds due to the newly enacted federal unemployment compensation tax exemption. IDOR estimates any additional refunds because of an increase to EIC will be issued late in 2021 once federal Earned Income Tax Credit data is provided to the state by the federal Internal Revenue Service.

For more details visit tax.illinois.gov.
As part of a new set of four bills signed on Thursday, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed Senate Bill 2122, which prohibits the use of deceptive tactics by all law enforcement when interrogating a minor. Illinois is the first state in the nation to ban the practice.

The law, which takes effect Jan. 1, 2022, bars police from knowingly providing false information about evidence or making unauthorized statements about leniency while questioning those at or under the age of 17. Any confession resulting from those circumstances will be inadmissible in court unless it can be proved by prosecutors by a dominant amount of the evidence that the confession came voluntarily.

"An essential tenet of good governance is recognizing the need to change the laws that have failed the people they serve. My administration has infused that value into everything we do," Pritzker said. "The four bills I'm signing today advance the rights of some of our most vulnerable in our justice system and put Illinois at the forefront of the work to bring about true reform. Together, these initiatives move us closer to a holistic criminal justice system, one that builds confidence and trust in a system that has done harm to too many people for far too long."

The package of bills signed into law Thursday also included: Senate Bill 64, which encourages the use of restorative justice practices by providing that participation in such practices and anything said or done during the practice is privileged and may not be used in any future proceeding unless the privilege is waived by the informed consent of the party or parties covered by the privilege, which takes effect immediately; Senate Bill 2129, which allows the State's Attorney of a county in which a defendant was sentenced to petition for resentencing if the original sentence no longer advances the interests of justice, which takes effect Jan. 1 2022 and House Bill 3587, which creates the Resentencing Task Force Act to study ways to reduce Illinois's prison population via resentencing motions, which also takes effect immediately.

Illinois becomes the first state in the U.S. to bar law enforcement from using deceptive tactics when interrogating youth. National law enforcement organizations and training agencies have advocated against these deceptive tactics, arguing that deceptive interrogation techniques increase the likelihood of a false confession from a minor, per the Chicago Tribune.

Tom Piper, the public defender for Morgan County, said he had not experienced an instance of the police lying to a minor, but believed that the bill could be an effective preventative measure.

"I think that it's always a good idea that the police should have to represent the truth of a case when dealing with anyone," Piper said. "There are tactics when dealing with an adult that involving lying, like when they're told that their associate has already confessed, thats wrong. We should be fair and we should not lie to them to get them to admit to something they otherwise wouldnt admit to."

"As Illinois continues to address police reform, mass incarceration, and crime reduction, it is extremely important that we develop a comprehensive system to consider the re-sentencing of individuals (HB 3587), and to ensure that the innocent are not wrongfully convicted (SB 2122)," said Rep. Justin Slaughter, D-Chicago, who sponsored both SB 2122 and HB 3587.

Earlier this year, Pritzker signed the SAFE-T Act, a proposal from the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus that will abolish cash bail beginning in 2023 and require widespread police body cameras by 2025, among other changes. For more on that bill, including police insights, read this.
File photo

EDWARDSVILLE  An Alton man was charged after allegedly striking an Alton police officer on June 16.

Joshua J. Butkovich, 41, of the 1900 block of Jersey Street, Alton, was charged July 14 with aggravated battery, a Class 3 felony.

The case was presented by the Alton Police Department.

According to court documents, on June 16 Butkovich struck an Alton police officer in the face.

Bail was set at $50,000.

Other felony charges filed July 14 by the Madison County States Attorneys Office include:

 Marcus D. James, 35, of the 800 block of E. Seventh Street, Alton, was charged with two counts of aggravated battery, both Class 3 felonies. The case was presented by the Alton Police Department. According to court documents, on July 7 James committed battery to another person at S Mart, repeatedly striking them about the head, and slamming the victim to the ground, where he struck a cooler, and slamming the victim into an ATM machine. Bail was set at $40,000.

 Isaac C. Hardin, 26, of the 3300 block of Belle Street, Alton, was charged with reckless discharge of a firearm, a Class 4 felony. The case was presented by the Alton Police Department. According to court documents, on July 13 Hardin fired a gun in the direction of another person. Bail was set at $30,000.

 Marquan McIntosh, 20, of East St. Louis, was charged with aggravated unlawful use of weapon, a Class 4 felony. The case was presented by the Illinois State Police. According to court documents, on May 2 McIntosh had a Taurus G2C 9 mm handgun in a vehicle without a valid Firearm Owners Identification Card or concealed carry license. Bail was set at $40,000.

 Tanya R. Gaddy, 38, of the first block of Lockhaven, Granite City, was charged with burglary, a Class 2 felony. The case was presented by the Granite City Police Department. According to court documents, on July 13 Gaddy entered the Al Fresco Center, 2041 Delmar Avenue, to commit theft. Bail was set at $40,000.

 Tyler G. Stierley, 32, of the 900 block of Sarah Street, Jerseyville, was charged with offenses relating to motor vehicles, a Class 2 felony. The case was presented by the Troy Police Department. According to court documents, on July 11 Stierley was found to be in possession of a stolen Ford F250. Bail was set at $40,000.

 Levi D. Key, 31, of the 200 block of Holiday Mobile Home Park, Pontoon Beach, was charged with criminal trespass to land, a Class 4 felony. The case was presented by the Pontoon Beach Police Department. According to court documents, on July 13 Key entered an occupied residence in the first block of Abel Court. Bail was set at $2100.
The man for which Schuyler County, Illinois is named for has come to light over the last few years.

Philip Schuyler was the father-in-law of founding father Alexander Hamilton, and he's featured in a non-speaking role in Lin-Manuel Miranda's famous musical, "Hamilton," that's still raging in popularity. Of course, Schuyler himself is a man of historical significance himself.

So the question arises, how did a county in the middle of Illinois get named after a Revolutionary War figure and early American notable?

Well, there's really no answer. Each guess holds a variety of validity, but in all honesty no one really knows for sure.

Therefore, another question arises. Who was Philip Schuyler? That answer can leave one very much intrigued.

To be clear, we're talking about Philip John Schuyler  pronounced Sky-ler. And there's a lot he accomplished.

Philip Schuyler started the canal system here in New York, long before the Erie Canal, he started the Western Atlantic Navigational Canal Corporation. He had a working canal all the way to the Great Lakes in the 1790s," Heidi Hill said. Hill is the Historical Site Manager at the Schuyler Mansion Historic Site in Albany, New York.

Schuyler was also a New York senator and the first surveyor general for the state as well. Like his son-in-law, he served under George Washington and commanded the northern department for the Continental Army. He also helped orchestrate the Invasion of Quebec in 1775.

Stories of his accomplishments begin to be told throughout his family tree and eventually across the country as the United States prepared for the 100th anniversary of it's birth. While 1876 was the celebratory year, it was actually the late-1830s when interest in recognizing a century of existence began to skyrocket.

It really started in the 1840s. It wasnt until 1876, but in 1838 a statue of Washington was commissioned for Washington, D.C., so there was the real patriotic movement that surpassed anything we did in 1976. That couldve been about the time these places were named as well," Hill said.

In short, stories about revolutionary heroes were being told, word of mouth spread them across the country, and cities, counties and other institutions are named in honor of those everyone was talking about  including Schuyler.

Counties in Missouri and New York are also named for Schuyler. They, along with Illinois, served as the namesake of the USS Schuyler battleship during World War II. The towns of Schuyler, New York and Schuylerville, New York also honor the Revolutionary War general. Angelica, New York is named for Schuyler's daughter.

Another interesting fact about Schuyler is that parts of his life ran parallel with Hamilton. Like Hamilton, Schuyler fought Aaron Burr in politics. He even lost his seat to Burr, but later won it back. The year of 1804 proved to be an emotionally depressive one for Schuyler's family  especially his daughter and Hamilton's wife, Eliza Schuyler Hamilton. Burr killed Hamilton in July, and Philip died later that year.

Hamilton married into this family, probably for love, but because he needed to find a family that had stature, and he wanted to get ahead in the world after the Revolutionary War," Hill said. "He needed to attach himself to a family that would propel him.
TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) 

Minnesota state Sen. Foung Hawj was never a fan of the Asian carp label commonly applied to four imported fish species that are wreaking havoc in the U.S. heartland, infesting numerous rivers and bearing down on the Great Lakes.

But the last straw came when an Asian business delegation arriving at the Minneapolis airport encountered a sign reading Kill Asian Carp." It was a well-intentioned plea to prevent spread of the invasive fish. But the message was off-putting to the visitors.

Hawj and fellow Sen. John Hoffman in 2014 won approval of a measure requiring that Minnesota agencies refer to the fish as invasive carp, despite backlash from the late radio commentator Rush Limbaugh, who ridiculed it as political correctness.

I had more hate mail than you could shake a stick at, Hoffman said.

Now some other government agencies are taking the same step in the wake of anti-Asian hate crimes that surged during the coronavirus pandemic. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service quietly changed its designation to invasive carp in April.

We wanted to move away from any terms that cast Asian culture and people in a negative light, said Charlie Wooley, director of its Great Lakes regional office.

The Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee, representing agencies in the U.S. and Canada that are trying to contain the carp, will do likewise Aug. 2, he said.

The moves come as other wildlife organizations consider revising names that some consider offensive, including the Entomological Society of America, which this month dropped gypsy moth and gypsy ant from its insect list.

Yet the switch to invasive carp might not be the final say. As experts and policymakers have learned in their long struggle against the prolific and wily fish, almost nothing about them is simple. Scientists, technical journals, government agencies, language style guides, restaurants and grocery stores may have ideas about what to call them, based on differing motives  including getting more people to eat the critters.

That's a priority for researchers who have spent years developing technologies to stem the incursion  from underwater noisemakers and electric currents to netting operations.

But the dish hasn't caught on with U.S. consumers, despite its popularity in much of the world. For many Americans, "carp calls to mind the common carp, a bottom-feeder with a reputation for a muddy flavor and bony flesh.

It's a four-letter word in this country, said Kevin Irons, assistant fisheries chief with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

The four species described collectively as Asian carp  bighead, silver, grass and black carp  were brought from China a half-century ago to rid Southern sewage and aquaculture ponds of algae, weeds and parasites. They escaped into the wild and have migrated up the Mississippi and other major rivers. The Great Lakes and their $7 billion sport fishery are vulnerable.

Voracious and aggressive, silver and bighead gobble plankton that other fish need. Grass carp munch ecologically valuable wetland plants, and black carp feast on mussels and snails. Silvers can also hurtle from the water like missiles, causing nasty collisions with boaters.

So far they've been netted mostly for bait, pet food and a few other uses. Philippe Parola, a Louisiana chef, trademarked the label silverfin for Asian carp fishcakes he developed around 2009.

The state of Illinois and partner organizations hope a splashy media campaign in the works will get bigger results. Dubbed The Perfect Catch, it will describe Asian carp as sustainably wild, surprisingly delicious"  high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, low in mercury and other contaminants.

And it will give the fish a market-tested new name, which will remain secret until the makeover rollout, Irons said. A date hasn't been announced.

We hope it will be new and refreshing and better represent these fish for consumers, he said.

The goal is to spur interest all along the chain  from commercial netters to processors, grocery stores and restaurants.

The tactic has worked before. After the U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service rechristened slimehead as orange roughy" in the late 1970s, demand for the deep-sea dweller rose so sharply that some stocks were depleted. Chilean sea bass, another cold-water favorite, once was known less appealingly as Patagonian toothfish.

But what new label for Asian carp will be considered official  invasive carp, which has been criticized as imprecise, or whatever the marketing blitz comes up with?

It could be either. Or neither.

The rebranding campaign will seek U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval to use the new moniker for interstate commerce. But even if the FDA goes along and consumers buy in, scientists are another matter.

The American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists and the American Fisheries Society have a committee that lists fish titles, including scientific names in Latin and common ones thought up by people "who originally described the species or included them in a field guide or other reference, said panel chairman Larry Page, curator of fishes at the Florida Museum of Natural History.

For example, there's Micropterus salmoides, which became known as largemouth bass, and Oncorhynchus mykiss, or rainbow trout.

The committee has never adopted Asian carp as a term for the four invasive species, Page said.

So where did it come from? According to a paper in the journal Fisheries, the label began showing up in scientific literature in the mid-1990s and took hold in the early 2000s as worries about the fish grew.

It was never a good idea, said Patrick Kocovsky, a fish ecologist with the U.S. Geological Survey and one of the paper's authors, because the species affect the environment in different ways.

Song Qian, a University of Toledo environmental sciences professor who teamed with Kocovsky on the article, said carp is a valued protein source in many Asian nations. It's a good-luck symbol in his native China.

If you say it's invasive, bad and needs to be eradicated, even though it's because of miscommunication, that's why there's talk about cultural insensitivity, Qian said.

It's most accurate to refer to the fish species individually, he said, acknowledging a collective name is sometimes convenient. The challenge now is finding the right one.

Regardless of which one eventually sticks, said Hawj, the Minnesota legislator, who immigrated to the U.S. from Laos as a child refugee after the Vietnam War, he's glad Asian carp is on its way out. He recalled the warm applause he received at an Asian-American conference after announcing his state had made the change.

"It's a nuisance, a small thing, but it can resonate greatly, he said.

___

Follow John Flesher on Twitter: @johnflesher
Elk Lake Superintendent Ken Cuomo opened Wednesday nights school board meeting with a moment of silence for a student who died by suicide.

This family has gone through a lot of pain, Cuomo said. Occurrences like this are happening far too often in our nation. I encourage all parents to watch their children and talk with their children, especially in the summer when they are not under school supervision.

Cuomo said letters had been sent to all parents of children in that students grade alerting them of the matter, so they wouldnt have to find out through social media.

The board also took notice of the passing of former maintenance supervisor Jim Jones, who died July 13.

He was always there whenever something needed to be done, Cuomo said. He was an integral part of the Elk Lake family for many years, and we will greatly miss seeing his smiling face.

At Wednesdays meeting, the board hired Franco Forgione as secondary assistant principal at a salary of $83,000. He was previously the student assistance program coordinator for the Northeastern Educational Intermediate Unit.

Forgione replaces Peter Kolankoski, who resigned to accept a teaching position in the Dallas School District.

The board also approved the 2021-22 health and safety plan.

Cuomo said the plan will continue to be fluid as the district receives further guidelines from the state Department of Health.

We will continue to follow any DOH guidance when it comes to masks and social distancing, Cuomo said. Right now there is currently no mask mandate in Pennsylvania, but as we have experienced during the past year, that could change at any moment.

Board Vice President Tyler Emmerich, who has a daughter entering kindergarten, said even though children under 12 are not eligible to receive the vaccine yet, he is fully on board with the current health and safety plan.

I have been a proponent of as much in-person schooling as possible since the beginning of last school year, Emmerich said. This district showed last year it can conduct school safely in person, and I see none of that changing this year.

In other business, the board:

Hired Danielle Plitt as a guidance counselor for grades 4-8, at a salary of $56,981.

Accepted the resignation of Ryan Berry as elementary school music teacher.

Approved posting four positions: bus radio monitor, substitute caller, and two paraeducators for the 2021-22 school year.

Accepted a $1,995,814 ARP ESSER III grant. Funds for the grant must be expended by Sept. 30, 2024.

Meeting earlier as the Susquehanna County Career and Technology Center board, members approved a 2021-22 health and safety plan for SCCTC.

Cuomo said the plan mirrors that of the Elk Lake School District, and he also received input from the superintendents of the six other schools whose students take vocational classes at the center.

The SCCTC board also held a moment of silence for Dave Rice, who passed away earlier this month. Rice worked with students at the center in job placement and counseling services.

He was an amazing person, who was loved by all of the students, SCCTC director Alice Davis said. You couldnt have asked for a nicer man.
July 15, 1946

Scrantons McDermott throws a no-hitter

Maurice The Kid McDermott, 17, pitched a no-hitter July 14 to lead the Scranton Red Sox to an 8-0 win in the first game of a doubleheader against the Albany Senators.

McDermotts no-hitter was only the fifth time a pitcher had completed one in Scranton Stadium.

Prior to joining the Scranton team, McDermott pitched a no-hitter for his high school team in Elizabeth, New Jersey. He played for St. Patricks High School.

Wes Bailey pitched the Red Sox to a win in the second game of the doubleheader against the Senators by a score of 4-2.

Airline executives meet with county officials

Representatives from American Airlines and Colonial Airlines met with the Lackawanna and Luzerne county commissioners, solicitors and other officials at the Lackawanna County Courthouse the morning of July 15.

The meeting was held to discuss what the two airlines would need in the temporary building that was planned for the airport.

The airlines suggested a structure that had at least 6,000 square feet with room to expand.

Colonial said it would only need 600 square feet, but American suggested it would like to see a 4,600-square-foot area that would hold a waiting space, ticket windows, offices, bathrooms and weather observations area.

The commissioners said they hoped to have the runways and temporary building completed by Oct. 1.

Following the meeting, the airline executives paid a visit to the airport site in Avoca to suggest locations for the temporary building.

Swithins legend revivedForty days of rain could have been on the way for the Scranton area thanks to the legend of St. Swithin Day.

St. Swithins Day is recognized on July 15. According to legend, if it rains or is sunny on St. Swithins Day, you can except 40 more days of rain or sun.

Scranton Weather Bureau meteorologist Ralph West reported that it rained that morning between 6:45 and 7:30.

West added this was the fifth time in 15 years it had rained on St. Swithins Day in Scranton. The previous times were in 1934, 1935, 1937 and 1945.
SCRANTON  The Zoning Board on Wednesday approved a scaled-down plan for a campground off the Morgan Highway in the northernmost part of the city.

The board voted 3-0  with Chairman Bob Gattens, Bob Morris and Shawn Walsh all in favor  to approve a variance/special exception for the campground proposed by Lourival Louis Chiarentin and his wife, Regina, of New Rochelle, New York.

The Chiarentins bought a 197-acre tract in January and want to operate a glamping-style campground there called Copacabana.

The Zoning Board previously heard the matter in April, when the couple initially proposed 80 campsites, 10 cabins and 15 RV sites. At that time, some residents of Steele and Fulton streets and a representative of Allied Services, which has its main campus at 475 Morgan Highway, raised concerns about campfire smoke. Residents also raised concerns about increased traffic and noise, the potential for forest fires from campfire embers, and that runoff could potentially disturb a nearby, old defunct Morgan Highway landfill.

The board delayed voting in April to give both sides time to try to work out differences.

At Wednesdays hearing, the Lourivals attorney, Larry Durkin, said the couple scaled the plan down to 20 campfire rings, each with two or three tent platforms, resulting in 40-60 tents in a narrow loop in a small section of the entire tract, about 1 mile away from Allied and 3/4-of-a-mile from Steele Street.

Some residents again voiced concerns Wednesday. Carlene Galdieri of Steele Street raised numerous questions, including about lighting, garbage collection, the landfill and other matters. Board members noted the old landfill is not on the Chiarentins 197 acres and thus not under the boards purview, runoff already occurs, and the campground plan wouldnt create more.

The boards approval also came with a condition prohibiting RV recreational vehicles and travel trailers.

The board noted the couple next needs to get approval from the city Planning Commission, which oversees land development, and the campground plan also would need state approval.

In another matter, the board heard three separate applications for variances sought by Vito Errico proposing to build multifamily housing on vacant lots in the Hill Section. These applications drew opposition from a large crowd of residents who live near the lots.

The board unanimously rejected Erricos applications to construct a duplex home at 638 Clay Ave., and to construct two, two-family duplexes on the same lot at 1009 Olive St.

The board unanimously approved Erricos third application to build one structure with three units at 824 Madison Ave.

In another matter, the board unanimously approved a variance for Bob Sheridan to construct a garage for personal use at 1023 E. Elm St., near his home. Neighbor David Kolcharno expressed opposition because Sheridan intends to park a flatbed, rollback tow truck in the garage. Kolcharno raised concerns about the truck backing out onto the street. Sheridans attorney, Tony Lomma, told the board that Sheridan, who owns D&S Auto Sales on South Washington Avenue and is the former president of the Scranton School Board, already parks the tow-truck on the street near his home for night calls.
In his speech Tuesday at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, President Joe Biden called on Americans to uphold the civil rights enshrined in the Constitution to provide the biggest possible answer to the big lie.

That lie, promulgated by former President Donald Trump and many Republican politicians who lack the courage to challenge him, is that he won the 2020 presidential election and that it was stolen from him through widespread fraud.

In support of that lie, Republican-controlled state legislatures have adopted 28 new laws to restrict voting rights, and hundreds more are pending.

Biden and congressional Democrats are engaged in a legislative battle to pass H.R. 1, the most important civil rights bill since the major civil rights laws of the 1960s. It would supersede the new, restrictive state laws that will disenfranchise many poor and minority voters.

But Biden called upon Americans who value their civil rights to ban together, as a matter of fundamental democratic values, to overcome suppression efforts.

You dont call facts fake and then try to bring down the American experiment just because youre unhappy. Thats not statesmanship, thats selfishness. Thats not democracy, thats the denial of the right to vote. It suppresses. It subjugates, Biden declared.

The fate of H.R. 1 lies in the Senate, where Republican Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has vowed to kill it and where it is clear that 10 Republicans will not cross the aisle to vote to uphold universal voting rights.

That calls for Democrats to suspend the filibuster, which results in a requirement for 60 votes, rather than 51, to pass legislation in a 100-member chamber.

There are some matters for which killing the filibuster might not be worth the political risk. But voting rights, a fundamental bedrock civil right and the foundation of representative democracy, are not among them. Senate Democrats should do whatever is necessary to preserve that right.
For better or worse  sometimes the former, sometimes the latter  the United States has a long history of military interventions in Haiti, particularly when one of its presidents has been assassinated or overthrown.

After President Jean Vilbrun Guillaume Sam was killed in 1915, President Woodrow Wilson landed U.S. Marines. They stayed, occupying Haiti, until 1934. In 1994, after democratically elected President Jean-Bertrand Aristide had been overthrown by a military junta, President Bill Clinton sent 20,000 troops to restore him. In 2004, after the increasingly despotic Aristide was ousted under pressure from the United States and an armed rebellion, President George W. Bush sent 1,800 troops as part of an international force. Those U.S. troops gave way to a U.N. peacekeeping force that stayed until 2017.

Now the peacekeepers are gone and Haiti is once again engulfed in chaos. Last week President Jovenel Moise, who already had overstayed his initial term in office, was assassinated by gunmen who stormed his villa. Haitian authorities now say they were acting on behalf of a Florida-based Haitian who hoped to claim the presidency for himself. But who really knows?

No one appears to be in charge of this country of 11 million people. The United States recognizes interim prime minister Claude Joseph as the acting head of state, but that postalso is claimed by Ariel Henry, who was due to be appointed prime minister before Moise died, and by Senate leader Joseph Lambert. Because elections did not take place as scheduled, the upper house of parliament has only 10 of 30 senators, and the lower house is entirely vacant.

Power is exercised by powerful and brutal gangs. Gasoline and food shortages are chronic. Ordinary people in the capital, Port-au-Prince, are fleeing their homes or staying inside of them, afraid to come out. This is a Hobbesian state of nature  Somalia in the Caribbean  and it could yet lead to another exodus of boat people heading to Florida.

Haitis interim government says We need help and asks the United States and the United Nations to send troops to stabilize the situation. But President Joe Biden shows no inclination to answer the 911 call from Port-au-Prince. Sorry, Haiti. The worlds policeman is officially off duty. Youre on your own. Good luck. Youll need it.

America is going through one of its non-interventionist phases, as it did in the 1930s and 1970s. We long ago lost our zeal for gunboat diplomacy and the Monroe Doctrine. More recently we have lost any enthusiasm for the responsibility to protect doctrine once espoused by liberal interventionists such as U.S. Agency for International Development Director Samantha Power. Responsibility to Protect has gone the way of Blockbuster video. It expired in the disorder that followed the 2011 NATO intervention in Libya, which was undertaken on R2P grounds.

Even our zeal for spreading democracy is at a low ebb. The name of the 1994 mission to Haiti  Operation Uphold Democracy  has a quaint, musty ring. After the fiascos of Iraq and Afghanistan, we have lost our appetite for democracy-building abroad. Biden doesnt use the slogan America First, but he shares former president Donald Trumps aversion to nation-building and desire to end forever wars. With Biden exiting Afghanistan, he is unlikely to send troops to a fresh conflict, even when its much closer to home.

We were much more willing to undertake wars of choice when we felt much stronger. But the sugar rush of the unipolar moment of the 1990s has long faded. China is rising and even Russia is back, and we no longer feel omnipotent. The twin shocks of the pandemic and the storming of the Capitol have strengthened the sense that we need to get our own house in order before we can set other countries straight.

All of that is perfectly understandable. Im a chastened hawk myself who now regrets my support for the invasion of Iraq. But the call for help from Haitis interim government is a salutary reminder that the demand for U.S. interventions hasnt gone away simply because we no longer answer the bat signal. The world still needs and wants America for lack of any better alternative.

If the United States doesnt intervene in Haiti, the best we can hope for is a return of a U.N. peacekeeping force. That is decidedly problematic, given that the last time U.N. peacekeepers were stationed in Haiti, they were accused of sexual assaults and they inadvertently created a cholera epidemic that killed thousands of people.

Some U.S. troops have committed atrocities of their own in the past, but they are usually far more capable and disciplined than the ragtag militaries that typically serve under the U.N. flag. Haiti undoubtedly would be better off, at least for a time, if the 82nd Airborne answered its call for help. But that isnt going to happen.

The world long has criticized American arrogance and overreach, with some justification. Now weve internalized those criticisms. Life in a lot of places will become more nasty, brutish and short if we permanently lose the will to act as a liberal hegemon. The world will miss American power when its gone. Haiti already does.

MAX BOOT is a Washington Post columnist, senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and the author of The Road Not Taken: Edward Lansdale and the American Tragedy in Vietnam.
One of the most cynical aspects of state Sen. Doug Mastrianos cynical attempt to conduct a fraudit of Pennsylvanias 2020 presidential election is his effort to use two Republican-controlled counties to cover his attack on heavily Democratic Philadelphia.

Without cause or authority but with a need to impress the hard-right Republican base as he ponders a run for the Republican gubernatorial nomination, the Franklin County Republican has demanded that three counties turn over their voting equipment and anything else related to the 2020 vote. He instructed Republican-controlled Tioga and York counties, and Philadelphia, comply with his demand by July 31.

Mastrianos gambit is as unoriginal as it is preposterous. It is based on the sham forensic audit that Arizonas GOP Senate majority imposed on Phoenix-based Maricopa County. That countys commissioners, with a 4-1 Republican majority, condemned the dog-and-pony show that resulted and ordered the replacement of millions of dollars worth of voting machines after the frauditors tampered with them.

Based largely on that experience, the Pennsylvania Department of State advised county election officials that it would decertify the voting machines of any county that turns them over for Mastrianos self-serving farce.

This week the commissioners of heavily Republican Tioga County, which former President Donald Trump carried with 74.7% of the vote in 2020, told Mastriano that they would not cooperate in his production. They cited the potential cost of replacing voting equipment and, as Commissioner Roger Bunn noted, that the county had conducted an election audit in accordance with state law, and found no discrepancies.

Commissioners from the other counties should stand up for the integrity of their residents and their own elections, which also have been certified and audited, by refusing to validate Mastrianos cynicism.
Westerly, RI (02891)

Today

Overcast with showers at times. High 73F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low 63F. Winds light and variable.
Eager holidaymakers looking to take advantage of easing travel rules are being stung at car hire desks, with prices three times higher than normal.

The huge spike in charges is largely down to the computer chip shortage that is strangling the supply of new cars and has sent values of used motors soaring in recent months.

Rental firms tend to replace their vehicles every one to two years and cut back on fleets in the height of the crisis last year, but now the supply of replacement models is dwindling - and this is pushing costs sky-high for Britons yearning for beaches this summer.

A pair of This is Money readers revealed the extent of the price hikes, with one quoted almost four times the price expected for car hire in Naples, Italy, and another almost three times as much as the same week last year for a small car at Faro, in Portugal.

Car hire prices surge: Rental firms who sold much of their fleets during the pandemic to keep their heads above water are now unable to restock with new models due to the semiconductor chip shortage that's strangling vehicle production - and now customers are paying the price

Industry insiders claim the huge leap in charges is due to rental firms reducing their fleets during the pandemic and now struggling to increase vehicle availability in-line with growing demand from holidaymakers at short notice.

Global auto makers are currently being restricted by the shortage of semiconductor computer chips required for new models, which is causing a bottleneck of zero-mile vehicles entering the market.

This chip shortage is having a wider impact on tech firms and other industries, as well as car makers - some of which have had to pause production until next supplies arrive.

A shortage of semiconductor computer chips is causing widespread production issues for car makers and wider tech firms

Europcar's chief executive said in an interview this week that the company 'cannot serve everyone we want to because there are not enough cars'

It means that some new car buyers are facing prolonged waiting times for deliveries of their ordered vehicles - some of which are up to a year long, according to reports.

I paid 35 for return flights to Italy only to discover the cheapest car hire was 50-a-day Geoff Hull, 71, from Lincolnshire, cancelled a trip to Italy due to sky-high car hire costs Geoff Hull, 71, from Lincolnshire told This is Money that the sky-high cost of a rental car for a trip to Italy has resulted in him being forced to cancel plans to travel. He and his Italian wife paid 35 each for return flights to Naples at the end of the month to visit family, having been unable to see them since 2019. After purchasing the flight tickets he used a car hire comparison site to research prices for a 15-day stay. The cheapest available for a small city car (a Fiat 500 or equivalent) was a staggering 753 - a whopping 50.20 per day, before any additional charges for full insurance protection. The last time Geoff travelled to Italy in December 2019, a Fiat 500 or equivalent rental car from Naples airport for 10 days (including over the New Year celebrations, which usually means higher prices) cost just 141.20 - that works out at just 14.12 per day. 'We have been eager to travel to Italy for some time as we wanted to visit relatives we haven't seen for a year and a half,' he told us. 'We were pleasantly surprised at how cheap the flight were, but couldn't believe the astronomical price to rent a vehicle after we'd booked the plane tickets. 'On top of PCR tests of 85 each before travelling, and home testing kits delivered to our home costing 199 per person on return from Italy, the overall cost would have been almost 1,400 for the two of us. Just 70 of that is the flights themselves. 'That's simply far too much money to pay to travel to Italy, so we have cancelled the plans entirely. 'We won't be able to get our money back for the flights, but that's a hit we unfortunately will have to take.'

Industry insiders have warned the shortage is likely to continue into 2022, extending headaches for manufacturers, car buyers and other businesses.

The issue is already dramatically hampering hire firms - and at the worst possible time.

Many rental companies over the last 16 months sold off their fleets, due to the collapse in demand and their finances since the Covid-19 outbreak hit and overseas travel all but came to a standstill.

Vehicle sales were key for many hire companies to keep their heads above water during the pandemic.

However, this has now come back to bite them - and consumers - as appetite for holidays returns and demand steps up, as the UK and other countries around the world look to lift travel restrictions over the summer.

Despite some popular destinations, such as the Balearic Islands being put back onto the amber list from next week, overall travel is getting easier for many Britons.

Under new rules proposed for Freedom Day on 19 July, holidaymakers fwho have received two jabs from the NHS will no longer be required to self-isolate for 10 days on their return to England and Scotland from amber-list destinations.

Previously, anybody arriving in the UK from a nation on the amber list had to quarantine for 10 days - though they could take a 'test to release' on day five - as well as taking PCR tests on days two and eight.

This has seen a flood in flight bookings, as Britons desperate for a change of scenery attempt to secure a trip overseas after months at home.

But this instant spike in bookings is creating difficulties for car hire providers.

Manufacturers are said to be more desperate to deliver retail sales over other channels at the moment, prioritising individual consumers over rental car providers, who tend to order vehicles in bulk at discounted prices.

Caroline Parot, chief executive at Europcar - the largest listed car hire company in Europe - told the Financial Times earlier this week that her business and other rental providers 'cannot serve everyone we want to because there are not enough cars' right now.

She added: 'People are eager to travel. If you look at the US, there are enough hotels and enough flights, but the car capacity has changed.'

This is Money has heard from a holidaymaker who looked into car hire prices this week to travel to Portugal's Algarve and found prices had rocketed compared to their bill last year..

For the last week of August in 2020, they paid just 108 for the hire of a Vauxhall Adam or equivalent from Dollar Rent A Car.

For the same week in summer this year, Dollar is now charging - for the same vehicle category and rental period of six days - a total of 301. That's almost three times the price quoted 12 months ago. The cheapest option from a different hire firm based at the airport was 287.

Another reader, Geoff Hull, 71, told us he had paid 35 for return flights to Naples later this month, only to discover that the cheapest rental car available at the airport would cost more than750 for two weeks.

2020: A This is Money reader sent us an example of the huge spike in vehicle hire costs in Portugal, with a six-day rental of a city car last summer costing less than 108

Booking the same vehicle type at the same airport from the same provider for the same six-day stay in summer 2021 is almost three times as expensive

Europcar's Parot told the FT that part of the problem was the volatile and often instant fluctuations in demand, as a result of governments making knee-jerk changes to travel rules.

Car makers have paused outputs due to chip supply woes Work has been stopped at Jaguar Land Rover's factory in Slovakia, where it makes 150,000 of the Defenders a year Jaguar Land Rover and Mini are among the UK manufacturers who have had to pause assembly lines at their respective Halewood and Oxford plants while they wait for the flow of semiconductors to return. JLR confirmed last month that its Nitra plant in Slovakia had put on hold production of the new Defender 4X4 due to the parts supply shortage. Reports suggest customers placing orders for the Defender today will be waiting for up to a year for their hulking off-roaders to arrive. BMW, Daimler, Ford, General Motors and VW Group are among brands that have had to either reduce or hit hold on outputs while they wait for chips to arrive at vehicle plants, causing a knock-on effect for delivery disruptions. Mike Hawes, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, has described the computer chip issue as 'massively challenging' for the industry, especially in the wake of its worst year in decades for both registrations and production during the pandemic.

'Each time a corridor is opened the reservations are exploding and we are full in 24 hours, but then if it is cancelled they are all gone,' she said.

In the interview, she adds that rental companies are now reverting to moving available cars across borders at short notice to supply countries deemed fit for holidaymakers.

However, this is resulting in high operation costs, which are being passed onto customers.

Other firms are reportedly resorting to buying up stock from the used car market, purchasing as many nearly-new models as they can get their hands on to boost their fleets while the chip shortage stalls new model arrivals.

That said, companies - like consumers - are now being priced out of second-hand cars, with values exceeding record levels due to the surge in demand in recent months.

Online used car marketplace BuyaCar told This is Money earlier this month that second-hand motor prices have 'shot up to an unprecedented level' with drivers paying more on average than ever before to secure a replacement vehicle.

The average price of a used model sold on BuyaCar rose from 13,108 in January to an all-time high of 15,399 in May, it said.

It also claims that the average price of its top five best-selling cars broke the 17,000 barrier for the first time since the website launched in 2002.

Heycar painted a similar picture, based on the values of second-hand cars listed on its website.

Since dealers reopened in April, it says the price of used models have jumped significantly.

Data from the car marketplace shows that average prices Volkswagens rose by 8 per cent in May - leaping from 19,718 to 21,296.
More than 200 companies listed on the UK stock market are vulnerable to predators as private equity scours Britain for takeover deals, according to City analysts.

In a 60-page report, broking firm Canaccord Genuity warned that a string of households names including Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury's, Vodafone and ITV could become bid targets before the end of the year.

The fresh analysis comes as private equity giants swoop on financially sound companies whose value has been depressed by the coronavirus crisis, in an attempt to buy them on the cheap.

Feeding frenzy: So far this year buyout firms have spent 23.3bn buying 113 British companies - the fastest pace of deal making since 2007

The feeding frenzy has been described as 'pandemic plundering'.

So far this year buyout firms have spent 23.3billion buying 113 British companies  the fastest pace of deal making since 2007.

Firms that have been targeted since Covid-19 struck include supermarkets Asda and Morrisons, security firm G4S and the AA.

In the report, Canaccord said that the second half of this year was likely to be 'just as frenzied' as the first, as share prices are still 'depressed'.

Data shows UK stock market valuations remain weak compared to their European and US rivals despite Britain's rapid coronavirus vaccination programme.

Canaccord analyst Graham Simpson said: 'The deals are getting bigger and bolder.

Upper Crust boss quits The boss of Upper Crust owner SSP Group is quitting for private equity after just two years in the job. The company's pandemic nightmare continued as Simon Smith, 49, said he will leave by the end of the year. SSP outlets at railway stations and airports were hammered by the pandemic and around 4,000 jobs were axed. At one stage, just ten of its 580 UK sites were open, eight of them in hospitals. Its brands include Ritazza and Camden Food Co. Its shares, down nearly 80 per cent in the pandemic, fell 4.3 per cent, or 11.3p, to 253.1p, and are 55 per cent below pre-Covid levels. Jamie Rollo, analyst at Morgan Stanley, said: 'It is clearly unexpected and disappointing news, as his predecessor Kate Swann left in May 2019.' SSP said business is picking up as lockdown restrictions ease, with trading last week at 42 per cent of 2019 levels.

'It won't stop as we are trading at a discount to global markets. It is concerning.'

Canaccord identifies more than 200 companies that could become takeover targets.

Within this, it highlighted 65 'top picks' which it described as 'low-hanging fruit' for predators.

The hit list includes Persimmon, Dixons Carphone, Kingfisher, Sainsbury's, Capita, Bloomsbury, ITV, Vodafone and Halfords.

These companies appear particularly attractive to bidders as they would provide 'much-needed growth without having to go through a restructuring or refinancing,' according to Canaccord.

The report went on to add: 'Depressed UK asset prices are now attracting offers, mainly from cash-rich private equity 'barons' riding into town.

'It is unprecedented and shows the true extent of the UK plc undervaluation relative to global peers in our view.

'We believe UK plc valuations continue to be very attractive so we don't expect the current trend to abate.'

In recent weeks there has been a fight-back against the plundering, with politicians on both sides of Parliament urging the Government to step in.

The Daily Mail has highlighted the problem and on Monday a string of Tory MPs as well as Labour's Ed Miliband publicly backed this paper's campaign.

With pressure building, Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng will meet Morrisons chief executive David Potts tomorrow to demand that he explain his rationale for backing the 6.3bn bid from a consortium headed by Fortress private equity.

But Simpson, who wrote the Canaccord report, wants to see more shareholders, and in particular City fund managers, stand up to the predators and vote against the deals.

Aerospace components maker Senior recently fended off a takeover, turning down five offers from private equity outfit Lone Star.

And two weeks ago Legal & General Investment Management slated the Fortress bid for Morrisons, saying that the takeover was taking place for all the 'wrong reasons'.

Simpson said the mounting concerns should at the very least result in higher offers, rather than the current spate of low-ball bids.

He said: 'We may see higher initial bids now that institutional investors are starting to push back publicly. That may also prompt private equity firms to increase their initial offers, as low, opportunistic offers can antagonise managements and investors.

'We might also expect management teams to hold out instead of recommending the first offer that comes along.'
The Soho House chain of private members clubs, which has been a favourite haunt for celebrities and creatives for a quarter of a century, has always been super-stylish.

Back in the 1990s, it was the epitome of Cool Britannia. More recently, Harry and Meghan went to its Dean Street townhouse on their first date.

Now, under the faintly socialist-sounding name of the Membership Collective Group, its parent company has embraced the fashion for floating on the stock market.

Soho House chief exec Nick Jones (pictured), describes the private members club chain's upcoming listing as 'nerve-wracking and exciting in the same measure'

The pricing is set to be in a range of $2.8billion to $3.2billion (2billion to 2.3billion) or $14 to $16 (10.10 to 11.54) a share. More details are to be announced today.

For a business built around members flocking together in its clubs, to embark on a stock market listing in a pandemic takes a steady nerve.

Nick Jones, the founder and chief executive, describes the listing as 'nerve-wracking and exciting in the same measure.'

It will involve a version of shareholder democracy, as members in the UK and the US will be able to buy a small stake in the float.

Around 20 to 25pc have registered for a maximum of 100 shares. 'It is a token  we want them to be part of it,' Jones says.

Since opening the first Soho House back in 1995 in the eponymous district of London, Jones's uber-cool empire has grown to 28 houses around the world.

It includes The Ned, a hotel and members' club in a grand former Lutyens bank in the heart of the City, and the Scorpios beach club on the Greek island of Mykonos.

He has also recently opened a new London outpost, 180 Strand, in a slightly dilapidated and unfashionable area.

From the outside, the brutalist concrete building seems an unlikely venue, a world away from the haute Bohemian vibe of the original House on Greek Street in Soho.

Inside, though, it is fabulous: zingy and full of mid-century modern design.

Downstairs are rented studios for creative entrepreneurs.

A number of floors are devoted to Soho Works for members who want to tippy-tap away on their laptops.

The upper storeys house the club itself, with a bar, terrace and the trademark Soho House rooftop pool with spectacular views over the London skyline.

Greek Street: The original House in Soho. The company has recently opened a new London outpost, 180 Strand, in a slightly dilapidated and unfashionable area

It is, Jones says, a template for the new lifestyles many of his members will be leading post pandemic.

'The last 18 months, everyone is re-imagining their lives. Our clubs are perfect for that hybrid way of living,' he says.

Even though the cash burn during lockdown was, he admits, 'huge  huge', fewer than one in ten of the 119,000 members cancelled, which is impressive considering the fee is typically 1,800 a year, for facilities that were shuttered for long periods.

Covid-19 accelerated a digital push. 'We supercharged development,' says Jones.

'Within six weeks we had the first digital events on the app  so you could have a yoga class, or making negronis at home.' For those wanting to make new connections, Jones says: 'We created an algorithm that will match like-minded people globally.'

There is also a 'traffic light' system so that 'if you come into a club and you are on your own and happy to meet people you put green. If you don't, you put red, and if you're not sure, amber.'

It all adds up to lots of lovely data that can be leveraged to improve the experience of members. This treasure trove of information would be manna from heaven for all sorts of third-party sellers, but Jones says that he would never countenance any such thing.

This year, clubs are due to open in Paris, Rome, Tel Aviv and Austin, Texas.

The group is also considering expansion in the UK, with possible venues in Manchester and Glasgow.

Jones himself owns a stake of 6pc in the group and says he is not selling any shares in the float. 'None. None.'

Why, though, as a business synonymous with British style, float in New York?

'Well, 60pc of our business, our profits and our turnover, are in America,' he says.

The decision may also have something to do with the fact the biggest shareholder, tycoon Ron Burkle, with 44.8 per cent, is American.

London restaurateur Richard Caring also has a chunky stake, amounting to 20.5 per cent.

Jones says there is 'an enormous road map for expansion' in the US, including a Ned in New York.

The float involves a dual-share structure, giving him and the other major shareholders souped-up voting rights.

These are viewed critically in some quarters in the UK, where the tradition is for all shareholders to be treated equally, but they are normal practice in the US.

'With founder-led businesses it is very standard,' Jones says.

Amsterdam: Since opening the first Soho House in 1995, the empire has grown to 28 houses around the world including this outpost in the Dutch capital

The float has not been greeted with universal acclaim.

Sceptics argue that behind the modish facade, the figures are less than alluring.

The business carries a high level of debt and has never made a profit, with the red ink running to $235million (169.6million) last year. Revenues dropped to $384million (277.1million), from $642million (463.3million) in 2019.

The float, Jones argues, represents a milestone in the maturing of the business.

'We have been going 26 years now. The Membership Collective Group is past adolescence.

'We are ready for a bit of proper discipline and structure.' The company plans to reduce $550million of borrowings from Goldman Sachs by around half through the float.

'We will be cleaning up the balance sheet, we have the dustpan and brush out,' says Jones

'We haven't made a profit because we have been expanding so much. The aim is to be profitable by end of 2022.'

A common complaint is that expanding the chain risks destroying the unique spirit of Soho House.

New members, Jones says, will be added carefully. Between 3,000 and 5,000 come with every new house. The waiting list is running at 48,000.

'We don't want to dilute the brand, we don't want to overcrowd. Our members love us expanding into new cities.

'We will have seven new openings a year for the next three to four years. The more cities we have, it adds glow to the membership, as does adding new, interesting members.'

The expansion is capital-light, landlords pay to develop the site while Soho House charges a fee for design and then pays rent.

The idea is that the arrival of Soho House lifts the area and the value of the building. A global brand and a Wall Street share float were certainly not on his mind back in 1995 when, as he tells it, he started the business by chance.

'Was it a Eureka moment? No. It was much more of an accident.'

Jones was running Cafe Boheme on Greek Street, when his landlord offered him the offices above.

At the time, he says, 'I hadn't even been to the Groucho'  which was, in the days before it was overshadowed by Soho House, a magnet for creative types.

Then he was struck by the brainwave of creating a 'home from home' for members  if your home is an artfully eclectic and unobtrusively expensive haven, that is.

In private life, the entrepreneur, 57, is married to Kirsty Young, the TV and radio presenter.

The pair met at one of his properties, Babington House in Somerset and they have two daughters, Freya and Iona.

It may be maturing as a business, but Soho House is popular with millennials and Generation Z  in other words, under-40s. The average age is 38.

What about opening new clubs for those who are old but still like to think that they are creative and cool?

'I've been thinking about doing it,' laughs Jones. 'In time for me.'
Sales boomed at Dunelm as shoppers flocked back to its bricks-and-mortar stores once Covid restrictions loosened over the spring.

Customers stocked up on cushions and bedding as the retailer brought in revenues of 380million in the 13 weeks to June 26.

This was double the same period of last year, which covered the first and strictest UK lockdown.

Soaring sales: Shoppers flocked back to Dunelm's bricks-and-mortar stores once Covid restrictions loosened over the spring

And it was 44 per cent higher than in 2019, which many view as a better comparator. Over 12 months, Dunelm's sales have risen by a quarter to more than 1.3billion.

As a result, the group has raised its profit guidance and told the City that it expects to make 158million  ahead of forecasts of 149million to 153million. The boom is likely to keep coming, Dunelm added, as consumers 'improve and refresh their homes'.

Keith Bowman, analyst at Interactive Investor, said: 'A buoyant housing market and more time at home due to the Covid crisis are likely playing into its hands.'

Despite the good news, Dunelm slid 6.3 per cent, or 90p, to 1349p. Bowman countered that a 'more than doubling in the share price since pandemic market lows in March 2020 has already priced in much of the good news'.

Stock Watch - Open Orphan Pharmaceuticals services provider Open Orphan made gains after it reported a double dose of good news. The AIM-listed groups Dutch arm, Breda, has clinched a 765,000 contract to assist an unnamed existing client with clinical trials. And the UK government has expanded a Covid study Open Orphan is working on  alongside the Vaccine Taskforce, Imperial College London and the Royal Free London Hospital  which will recruit around 20 volunteers. Open Orphan did not say how much more it would earn from the extension. Shares rose 3 per cent, or 0.75p, to 26p.

But others might have clocked the warning that it is seeing some disruption and pressures in its supply chain  understood to be referring to the shortage of shipping containers worldwide that is making it trickier for firms to get products delivered.

After the market had closed, B&Q-owner Kingfisher also revealed it is still benefiting from the extra love and attention people are pouring into doing up their homes.

Britons' new-found enthusiasm for DIY since Covid struck and the rush of house buying led Kingfisher (down 1.4 per cent, or 5.2p, to 362.3p) to hike its guidance.

It now expects first-half sales to be around 22 per cent higher  it previously said it would be in the teens  and profits to be up to 660million, a sharp increase from forecasts of up to 600million.

Housebuilder Barratt Developments also got in on the act, telling shareholders it would make more than 800million in annual profits as home sales have exploded in the rush to get deals over the line before the end of the stamp duty holiday.

Barratt rose by 2 per cent, or 14.2p, to 711p, but the wider market was gloomier.

The FTSE 100 fell 0.5 per cent, or 33.53 points, to 7091.19, while the FTSE 250 fell 0.8 per cent, or 176.77 points, to 22,750.04 as both were dragged down by travel stocks.

Oil prices rose above $76 a barrel as it emerged that Saudi Arabia and the UAE were close to resolving a dispute that put the future of a production agreement among the entire Opec+ cartel at risk.

The countries are on the brink of striking a deal that will set out how much the member states can gradually start increasing their oil output by.

Brent crude was trading at $76.18 a barrel, while Royal Dutch Shell fell 0.6 per cent, or 8.4p, to 1409p and BP slipped by 0.4 per cent, or 1.15p, to 304.75p.

Beleaguered energy group Tullow Oil bucked the trend, however, rising 1.8 per cent, or 0.94p, to 52.16p after 'excellent' progress in the first half.

Elsewhere, David Beckham-backed Guild Esports tumbled 8.8 per cent, or 0.71p, to 7.35p after boss Carleton Curtis made the 'personal decision' to step down.

As executive chairman, Carleton had navigated it through its stock market listing last October.

The esports company is setting up its own teams to compete in online video game tournaments, where they play the likes of Fifa and Fortnite. Board director Derek Lew steps in as non-executive chairman.

Over on AIM, non-bank lender Lendinvest had a stellar first day of trading, ending at 197.5p after going public at 186p per share.
The High Street faces a tsunami of closures after debt at independent enterprises rocketed five-fold to 2.4billion in the pandemic.

A report commissioned by former Iceland chief executive Bill Grimsey warned of a significant number of business failures as government support is withdrawn.

The report found that the 68,000 small independent retailers have seen their collective debt rise from 250million to 1.23billion since the start of the pandemic.

High street carnage: Around 68,000 small independent retailers have seen their collective debt rise from 250m to 1.23bn since the start of the pandemic

Another 56,000 small independent hospitality firms have increased their debt from 190million to 840million, while borrowings at 20,000 hair and beauty businesses have rocketed from 50million to 300million.

The report said small businesses were forced to take on debt they could not afford to survive, which is tantamount to irresponsible lending.

Grimsey said: Weve already seen the carnage of the failure of the bigger companies. Now our independents are struggling to manage a mountain of debt and need help.

Around 200,000 jobs were lost in the sector last year, with another 200,000 expected to go this year as 20,000 shops shut for good.

The report said the Government will move heaven and earth to rescue some industries, but retail has been left to go to the wall.
All photos courtesy of Variety - the Childrens Charity of the Delaware Valley
JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  Indonesia reported more than 54,000 new coronavirus cases for the first time Wednesday, surpassing recent daily infections in India, whose disastrous outbreak is declining, and becoming Asia's new virus hotspot.

Officials fear that the more highly transmissible delta variant is now spreading from the islands of Java and Bali, where outbreaks prompted a partial lockdown that closed places of worship, malls, parks and restaurants.

I predict the outbreak will increase continuously in July as we are not able yet to prevent the spread of infections," epidemiology expert Pandu Riono at the University of Indonesia said Wednesday. "Emergency social restrictions are still inadequate. They should be twice as stringent since we are facing the delta variant, which is two times more contagious.

The Health Ministry reported 54,517 new cases and 991 deaths on Wednesday, bringing the number of confirmed cases since the pandemic began above 2.6 million and the number of confirmed fatalities to more than 69,000.

A month ago, daily cases were running at about 8,000.

Reported daily cases in Indonesia are now higher than in India, despite Indonesia having far less testing by population.

India reported fewer than 39,000 cases on Wednesday, far below its peak of more than 400,000 daily cases in May, following lockdowns in its worst-hit areas and a stepped-up vaccination drive.

Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said the government has identified the spread of the delta variant in some regions outside Java and Bali.

He told lawmakers on Tuesday that across the country, more than 90,000 of the 120,000 hospital beds for COVID-19 patients are occupied.

Nationally, we still have some room. But the bed occupancy rate is very high in some provinces where the explosion of the delta variant is concentrated, Sadikin said.

With the increase in deaths over the past month, some residents near Jakarta have begun helping overburdened gravediggers.

As the diggers are too tired and do not have enough resources to dig, the residents in my neighborhood decided to help," said Jaya Abidin, who lives in Bogor on the outskirts of the capital. Because if we do not do this, we will have to wait in turn a long time for a burial in the middle of the night.

The government is struggling to acquire enough vaccines to reach its target of inoculating more than 181 million of its 270 million people by March 2022. So far, only 15.6 million people have been fully vaccinated.

So far, the worlds fourth-most populous country has secured 137.6 million doses of Sinovac, AstraZeneca and Moderna vaccines, enough for about 69 million people.

___

Associated Press writer Ashok Sharma in New Delhi and photographer Achmad Ibrahim in Jakarta contributed to this report.
ALBANY  Here we go again.

That was my reaction to news, as reported by Marina Villenueve of the Associated Press, that Andrew Cuomo's administration has been underreporting the state's total number of COVID-19 deaths. Of course, the governor and his staff spent nearly a year hiding the number of COVID-19 deaths in nursing homes, a scandal that federal officials are investigating.

And now this? Does this governor, I wondered, ever learn?

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Villenueve reports that the federal count of New York COVID-19 deaths includes about 11,000 more victims than the state's official tally. That's largely because the state Department of Health is counting only lab-tested deaths in hospitals, nursing homes and adult-care facilities but excluding presumed COVID-19 victims who died in their own homes, hospice, state prisons or at state-run homes for people with disabilities.

The revelation is different from what happened with nursing homes in an important way: The more accurate federal number is publicly available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That wasn't the case with nursing home deaths, as the state's dishonestly kept us in the dark until a report by Attorney General Letitia James called out the undercount.

But in other respects, this feels like a replay. New York is again underreporting deaths in an official total, making the state's handling of the pandemic look better than it really was. And the state is again obfuscating: As Villenueve noted on Twitter, she'd been asking the Health Department to explain the undercount since May without receiving a direct answer.

"They're playing games," said Bill Hammond, senior fellow for health policy at the Empire Center Center for Public Policy. "They're leaving out entire categories of people who died, and it doesn't make any sense."

According to the state's official count, about 43,000 New Yorkers have died from COVID-19. But the state, according to the Associated Press, has provided data to the federal government showing that roughly 54,000 have died in COVID-19 related deaths.

"Theres no such thing as federal data as opposed to New York state data," contended Jill Montag, a health department spokesperson. "The numbers disseminated by the CDC come from New York states own daily reporting  its all New York state data and all public."

And this is the way Cuomo put it when asked by reporters Wednesday about the undercount: "We have always reported lab-tested COVID results," he said. "CDC asks for additional information on, I forget their terminology, possible or presumed COVID deaths, which we report to them and then they report."

But why must New Yorkers seeking full information go to the CDC? Why can't they get data from their own state?

Keep in mind that other states, including California, Florida, Pennsylvania and New Jersey, don't report their official tally that way. They keep count as the CDC does and include deaths where COVID-19 is considered an associated or contributing factor. So does New York City for its official count.

Here's the thing: If it hadn't been for all the nursing home dishonesty  which included scrubbing of honest data from an official Health Department report, stonewalling and threatening of lawmakers seeking the truth, and illegal dismissals of FOIL requests  maybe we could give the Cuomo administration the benefit of the doubt on this one.

But the Cuomo team has shown it doesn't deserve our trust. The governor and other state officials offered up blatantly misleading statistics on nursing home deaths, presumably to deflect criticism of a controversial state order requiring the facilities to accept COVID-19 patients.

"Why should we assume it's different now?" Hammond asked. "Why should we assume that they have a good faith reason for something that results in such a large undercount?"

We shouldn't. We can only view data from the Cuomo administration with skepticism. The governor's credibility, and that of his health department, has vanished, which is obviously a bad situation.

What happens if there's another public health crisis? Why would New Yorkers believe what they're told?

"You want to be able to trust the Health Department to give you straight information," Hammond said. "But if they're being deceptive about this"  the COVID-19 death total  "if makes you wonder about the accuracy of all means of other stuff."

Five months ago, in February, the governor finally admitted that the state had been not been counting residents who were sent to hospitals before they died in its nursing home tally. He talked about "creating the void" that allowed for misinformation to spread and rued that the failure had "created pain."

He also said that while fatalities in nursing homes had not been fully tallied, New Yorkers could have faith in the state's overall COVID-19 tally.

"Total death counts were always accurate," Cuomo said then.

cchurchill@timesunion.com  518-454-5442  @chris_churchill
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  Tennessee health officials will not acknowledge that August is National Immunization Awareness Month per an order from the state's health commissioner, emails show.

The order, obtained by NewsChannel 5, was given to Tennessee's former top vaccination chief earlier this month just days before she was fired amid Republican outrage over her push to inoculate teenagers against COVID-19.

The firing of Dr. Michelle Fiscus sparked alarm among doctors, public health advocates and Democrats at Gov. Bill Lee's administration hesitancy to promote the COVID-19 vaccine, as well as the administration's recent actions to back off from promoting other vital vaccinations.

August is National Immunization Awareness Month and we would typically do a news release, a Governors proclamation ... , Dr. Michelle Fiscus wrote in a July 8 email. Please let me know if well be permitted to acknowledge the occasion.

Dr. Tim Jones, chief medical officer of the Tennessee Department of Health, replied Per the Commissioner, no outreach at all.

Sarah Tanksley, a spokesperson for Health Commissioner Lisa Piercey, said the agency had in no way halted the immunizations for children program and stressed that the state will continue to support vaccine outreach efforts.

Tanksley added the state is mindful of hesitancy surrounding vaccinations and pointed out the department intends to recognize National Immunization Awareness Month.

Last year, Lee signed a proclamation declaring August as Immunization Awareness Month, stating Tennesseans are encouraged to get vaccines due or overdue administered according to CDC recommended immunization schedules.

Fiscus served as medical director for vaccine-preventable diseases and immunization programs at the health department. She said the states elected leaders put politics over the health of children by firing her for her efforts to get more Tennesseans vaccinated.

She said the agency gave no reason for why she was being let go.

Given a choice of resigning or being fired, she chose termination. Fiscus then penned a blistering 1,200-word response saying she is ashamed of Tennessees leaders, afraid for her state, and angry for the amazing people of the Tennessee Department of Health who have been mistreated by an uneducated public and leaders who have only their own interests in mind.

Since then, the health department has acknowledged it has halted all outreach efforts around any kind of vaccines for children, not just COVID-19 ones. The Tennessean first confirmed the policy change.

Fiscus said Wednesday the policy change comes as an estimated 30,000 teens in Tennessee are behind on the vaccination schedule due to disruptions caused by the coronavirus outbreak.

In the day's since Fiscus' firing, local health officials in Nashville and Shelby County  encompassing Memphis  have been quick to point out that they won't be changing their own vaccine advocacy or policies.

Lee, a Republican, has been silent on the firing. His office and the health department declined to comment, citing personnel matters.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki declined to comment directly on Fiscus' firing Wednesday but said President Joe Biden's administration has been clear that we stand against any effort that would politicize our countrys pandemic response and recovery from COVID-19.

Psaki added that the federal government would keep working with partner states such as Tennessee to ensure we are conveying accurately that the vast majority, 99.5% of people who are going to hospitals are not vaccinated.

Only 38% of Tennesseans are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, lagging behind much of the nation.

"I dont think they realized how much of an advocate I am for public health and how intolerant of injustice I am, Fiscus told The Associated Press on Tuesday.

During a June committee meeting, angry Republican lawmakers invoked Fiscus name over a letter she sent to medical providers who administer vaccines explaining the states legal mechanism letting them vaccinate minors as young as 14 without parental consent, called the Mature Minor Doctrine. The letter was in response to providers questions and didnt contain new information.

Fiscus said the health departments attorney provided the letter, based on a 1987 Tennessee Supreme Court ruling and that her job was to explain what is allowable.

Republican lawmakers also admonished the agency for its communications about the vaccine, including online posts. One graphic, featuring a photo of a smiling child with a Band-Aid on his arm, said, Tennesseans 12+ are eligible for vaccines. Give COVID-19 vaccines a shot.

During the hearing, Republican Rep. Scott Cepicky held a printout of a Facebook ad saying teens were eligible, calling the agencys advocacy reprehensible and likening it to peer pressure.

Asked about the hearing, the governor last month said generally that the state will continue to encourage folks to seek access  adults for their children, and adults for themselves to make the personal choice for vaccine.

Two weeks after the hearing, the health department instructed county-level employees to stop vaccination events aimed at teens and to halt online outreach to them, The Tennessean previously reported, citing emails it obtained.

___

Associated Press writer Kimberlee Kruesi contributed to this report.
IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP)  A judge on Wednesday delayed sentencing for the man convicted of killing University of Iowa student Mollie Tibbetts after defense lawyers said they needed time to investigate new information pointing to other potential suspects.

Cristhian Bahena Rivera, 27, was scheduled to be sentenced to life in prison without parole Thursday before his lawyers revealed newly obtained information that they say might implicate a sex trafficking ring in her kidnapping and death.

Judge Joel Yates ruled Wednesday the sentencing would be delayed until after he holds hearings on the defense's requests to compel prosecutors to release information about other suspects and to order a new trial. Yates said he would hold the first hearing Thursday at the Poweshiek County Courthouse in Montezuma and set a later date for the hearing on a new trial.

Prosecutors argued in a court filing Wednesday that the new information cited by the defense isn't credible, is grossly inconsistent" with Bahena Rivera's testimony and would not have changed the trial's outcome.

The overwhelming amount of evidence points to the guilt of the defendant, they wrote.

A jury in May found Bahena Rivera guilty of first-degree murder in the stabbing death of Tibbetts, 20, who vanished while out for a run in her hometown of Brooklyn, Iowa, in July 2018.

Prosecutors built their case on surveillance video showing Bahena Rivera driving in the vicinity of where Tibbetts disappeared while jogging, on DNA evidence showing that her blood was found in his car's trunk, and on a partial confession in which Bahena Rivera led investigators to a remote cornfield where her body was found a month after she disappeared.

Bahena Rivera, a dairy farm worker, claimed publicly for the first time while testifying at his trial that two masked men were responsible for the killing and had forced him to drive them around and dispose of Tibbetts' body at gunpoint. A native of Mexico who illegally came to the U.S. as a teenager, he has been jailed since his 2018 arrest.

Defense lawyers Chad and Jennifer Frese requested a new trial last week, saying two witnesses recently came forward independently of one another to partially support Bahena Rivera's testimony. The witnesses told investigators that a 21-year-old man with a history of violence against women had claimed responsibility for killing Tibbetts.

One of the witnesses said the man told him while they were at a county jail that Tibbetts had been kidnapped and brought to a trap house used for sex trafficking before she was killed, according to Bahena Rivera's lawyers.

The man told the witness that the house was owned by a 50-year-old who was running the trafficking ring and decided to have Tibbetts killed after the publicity surrounding her disappearance got too big. The man allegedly said he and an associate followed through with a plan devised by the 50-year-old to stab Tibbetts and frame a Hispanic man for the death.

The Freses said they learned Tuesday about a criminal investigation that centered on a 50-year-old man who allegedly met one of his sex trafficking victims in May 2018 at a gas station in Brooklyn, Tibbetts' hometown of 1,700 people that is roughly 50 miles (80 kilometers) west of Iowa City.

The woman told investigators that the man lured her to a house in the nearby town of New Sharon, where she was repeatedly drugged, raped, and held against her will until August 2018, court records show. The woman said she sometimes would hear other women's voices in the home.

Law enforcement officials used the information to obtain a warrant to search the home days after they interviewed her in March 2019, but it had already been vacated by the 50-year-old man. They did not charge him, and Mahaska County's sheriff said recently the kidnapping and sex trafficking allegations were never substantiated.

Still, defense lawyers argue that prosecutors should have turned over details about the investigation under their duty to provide exculpatory information. They said the potential existence of the trap house corroborates the new witnesses' claims.

They are asking Yates to order the state to release information about prior sex trafficking investigations, including any involving the 21-year-old and 50-year-old. They noted that several other young people have gone missing from the area in recent years, calling that very troubling.

Prosecutors said they weren't required to share such information because there was no evidence Tibbetts had been sexually trafficked. They said the defense was notified of the new witnesses coming forward at the end of the trial, but declined to follow up on the information then because it didn't fit their case.

In court filings, the Freses noted that the 50-year-old man had come under scrutiny in the investigation into the disappearance of an 11-year-old boy, Xavior Harrelson. Xavior vanished from his trailer park in Montezuma on May 28, during closing arguments of the Bahena Rivera trial.

The defense filings noted the 50-year-old man is the former live-in boyfriend of Xavior's mother. Investigators searching for Xavior began looking for the man and arrested him on an unrelated outstanding warrant in another county the day after the boy was reported missing.

Federal authorities detained the 50-year-old man last week on charges of illegally possessing a sawed-off shotgun. He hasn't been charged in the boy's disappearance.
HONOLULU (AP)  A judge ruled she won't appoint a special master just yet to make sure Hawaii officials are keeping inmates safe from COVID-19, but said she is troubled by allegations in a lawsuit describing egregious conditions at prisons and jails that led to virus outbreaks at five of the state's eight prisons and jails.

In a ruling issued late Tuesday afternoon, U.S. District Judge Jill Otake granted class-action status to the lawsuit by inmates alleging state officials mishandled the pandemic and failed to implement its Pandemic Response Plan.

Lawyers for the inmates asked the judge to appoint an expert who could ensure the plan is being followed.

This does not foreclose the possibility that a special master or another person with a similarly contemplated role may be appointed in the future, if appropriate, the judge said.

Otake ordered the state to immediately implement" and follow the plan, focusing on cleaning, social distancing, quarantining and other measures.

Attorneys representing the state have said they addressed COVID-19 safety concerns by adopting the response plan on March 23, 2020, consistent with guidelines from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

State officials didn't immediately comment on the ruling Wednesday.

Otake noted descriptions in the lawsuit including an outbreak at one Oahu facility that led to 90% of the inmate population to contract the virus, where dirty clothes from that facility where laundered by inmates and staff at another facility, which resulted in an outbreak there.

Other descriptions she noted include an inmate with lupus who contracted the virus but received little-to-no medical care and was left with serious kidney damage, no social distancing or mask-wearing enforcement and crowded and sanitary living conditions.

Inmates said in court documents ailing detainees were kept near a bathroom flooded with urine and feces and their requests to use the bathroom were frequently denied, forcing them to urinate in their drinking cups.

If the conditions described in the declarations submitted by Plaintiffs continue, the risk of harm to all inmates is undeniable," Otake said, adding that she found their statements to be credible.

Otake found it problematic that officials transported symptomatic inmates on an airplane from a facility with an active COVID-19 outbreak who told staff they were ill or whose infections weren't confirmed because of late or no testing to a facility with no active COVID-19 cases that previously experienced an outbreak and then housed those inmates with virus-negative inmates.

There is almost no clearer an example of complete disregard for the Response Plan and abandonment of precautionary measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 between DPS facilities and islands, she said.

Otake also took issue with officials relocating inmates from a crowded area known as the fishbowl only after the plaintiffs filed a motion asking for the special master. She called the timing of the actions suspect.

She is requiring both sides to attend monthly status conferences starting next week with a magistrate judge. They must file reports a week before each meeting.
SARATOGA SPRINGS  Classical story ballets, like Swan Lake and The Sleeping Beauty, are usually all about glamour and spectacle. There are glittering costumes, elaborate sets, a full orchestra in the pit and a series of romantic pas de deux, interspersed with party scenes populated by dozens of corps members.

That was not what New York City Ballet presented when the company returned to SPAC Wednesday night for a joyful reunion with devoted local fans. But they offered something equally enchanting, in an entirely different way.

The Saratoga premiere of On and Off Stage: Short Stories, with a cast of just 15 dancers and two pianists (Nancy McDill and Alan Moverman), gave viewers a glimpse behind the scenes and a chance to experience the human side of these superhuman performers. Designed to accommodate COVID restrictions, the new format comprises brief excerpts from eight ballets, with host Maria Kowroski and the company members sharing historical details and personal reflections about each work. (During the remainder of the companys run, Short Stories will alternate with a program of excerpts from five Balanchine masterworks, hosted by Gonzalo Garcia.)

We hear how the three dancers in Jerome Robbins Fancy Free (Amar Ramasar, Spartak Hoxha and Lars Nelson) envision their charactersand then we get to see them embody those personas with jazzy swagger. We learn that Miriam Miller rehearsed her facial expressions in a mirror for the scene in A Midsummer Nights Dream when she falls in love with a donkey while spellboundand then we enjoy her completely convincing adoration in the comical duet with Nelson. And we celebrate Meaghan Dutton-OHaras debut in the technically demanding Rose Adagio from The Sleeping Beauty, a tour de force of balances and developpes.

The program also featured three pas de deux depicting enchanted birds: Odette from Swan Lake, portrayed with poignant vulnerability by Teresa Reichlen, partnered by Tyler Angle; a pair of frothy, fluttering bluebirds (Sara Adams and Hoxha) from The Sleeping Beauty; and George Balanchines Firebird, in which Reichlen and Ramasar showed their fiercer, edgier sides. Excerpts from Robbins clever Mistake Waltz, in which one dancer cant quite keep up, and Balanchines folk danceinspired Western Symphony added yet more flavors to the mix.

The host also had her moments in the spotlight. After 25 years with the company, Kowroski is set to retire this coming season, and her reminiscences drew from a rich and varied career, including many summers at SPAC. She recalled a night when a thunderstorm knocked out the electricity, leaving her on a pitch-black stage; a July production of The Nutcracker in 100-degree heat; and a memorable performance of Midsummer surrounded by fireflies. SPAC, she said, is a truly magical home away from home. For audiences, having a new layer of connection with their beloved company only adds to the magic.

Dance review

New York City Ballets On and Off Stage: Short Stories

When: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday

Where: SPAC, 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs, NY

Length: 90 minutes, no intermission

Repeats: 7:30 p.m. Thursday and 2 p.m. Saturday; alternates with On and Off Stage: All Balanchine at 2 p.m. Thursday and 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday

Tickets: $30$105

Info: 584-9330 or https://spac.org
LAS VEGAS (AP)  Federal law enforcement officials said Wednesday that they dismantled a key international cocaine and money-laundering hub in an ongoing investigation that began six years ago in Las Vegas and has involved more than 30 other countries.

The top federal prosecutor and the FBI chief in Las Vegas told reporters that the probe became public after the recent arrests of six people in Nevada, Arizona, California and Washington state on conspiracy, drug and money-laundering charges.

Acting U.S. Attorney Christopher Chiou and Aaron Rouse, special agent in charge of the Las Vegas office, were flanked by representatives of law enforcement agencies in Australia, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Israel, Romania and United Kingdom.

Rouse said the case did not arise from a casino-related investigation.

The FBI chief said millions of dollars were involved, but he wouldnt specify an amount.

He characterized the conspiracy as a cog in a drugs-and-money operation supporting trans-national criminal organizations that he said will be crippled by the six arrests and dozens of others in other places in the six-year operation dubbed Operation Money Maker. Rouse declined to provide exact numbers, places or details of those cases.

Take the cog out, the spokes fall, he said. Their hub is gone.

Chiou said two of the six people named in separate indictments being unsealed are Las Vegas residents. Others are from Los Angeles, Seattle, Phoenix and San Jose, California.

The five men and one woman range in age from 31 to 51. Each will be prosecuted in Las Vegas, Chiou said. Each is a U.S. citizen and faces a conspiracy charge.

Three face additional drug distribution charges and four of the six are accused of money laundering. Each could face decades in prison if convicted.

Records of five cases were not immediately accessible in the U.S. District Court public record.
Today

Partly cloudy with afternoon showers or thunderstorms. High 81F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%.

Tonight

Mostly clear. Low near 60F. Winds light and variable.

Tomorrow

Mostly sunny skies. High near 85F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.
A Maryland man who belonged to the anti-government "boogaloo" movement has been sentenced to six months of home confinement for illegally possessing a firearm
[July 15, 2021] AppDirect Enables Sektor to Scale IT Distribution Across Asia-Pacific Region

AppDirect, the leading subscription commerce platform company, today announced it has been selected by Sektor, a leading technology distribution group headquartered in New Zealand, to support its digital transformation and growth initiatives. AppDirect will make an immediate impact by enabling Sektor to automate its reseller operations, allowing the company to expand its software catalog, scale its security software practice and accelerate its go-to-market across the APAC region. In addition to these near-term goals, the AppDirect platform is a full-stack subscription commerce solution that will enable Sektor to pursue its medium and long-range plans for growth. These include moving additional lines of business onto the platform, such as its core hardware products to support its hardware as a service (HaaS) offerings, as well as driving even wider geographic expansion. With Sektor, AppDirect is also adding another customer to its list of marquee customers in the APAC region, including Telstra (News - Alert) , and gaining a solid foothold in the IT distributor sector. "In today's highly competitive market, automation is the only way to make sure companies can meet customer demand and stay ahead of the competition," said Daniel Saks, co-founder and co-CEO of AppDirect. "We are thrilled to work with Sektor to not only automate and streamline the reseller experience, but also give them the flexibility and freedom to grow as they launch new offerings and go-to-market strategies, and take their busness to the next level."



"The subscription commerce capabilities that AppDirect gives us are a critical piece of our digital transformation, allowing us to innovate and offer more choice in software solutions," said Rhys Warren, CEO of Sektor. "As Sektor continues to grow, this partnership will help our business scale quickly as we look to expand in the greater Asia-Pacific market." For more information about AppDirect's HaaS capabilities, please view the recent webinar, Selling Physical Products Through Your Marketplace.

About AppDirect AppDirect offers a subscription commerce platform that removes the complexity of building a recurring business model. Sell any product, through any channel, on any device-as a service. Our platform opens up endless opportunities for commerce innovation, giving businesses the freedom to grow. We power millions of subscriptions worldwide for organizations like Jaguar Land Rover, Comcast (News - Alert) , Sage, Keller Williams, ADP, and Deutsche Telekom. About Sektor Sektor is a technology distribution group helping customers build innovative and efficient solutions for the retail, networking, healthcare, mobility, security, ergonomics and cyber security markets. Sektor's passionate, dedicated and deeply knowledgeable team are industry and technology experts, helping resellers build winning solutions for clients. Sektor is a New Zealand company with offices in Australia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. With over 200 staff it is the largest value-added IT distributor in the Asia Pacific region. www.sektor.co 2021 AppDirect, Inc. AppDirect is a registered trademark of AppDirect, Inc. in the United States and other countries. Other brand and product names are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holder(s). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005252/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Bell Partners with Google Cloud to Deliver Next-Generation Network Experiences for Canadians

MONTREAL and SUNNYVALE, Calif., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Bell Canada and Google Cloud today announced a strategic partnership to power Bell's company-wide digital transformation, enhance its network and IT infrastructure, and enable a more sustainable future. This new, multi-year partnership will combine Bell's 5G network leadership with Google's expertise in multicloud, data analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI), to deliver next-generation experiences for Bell customers across Canada. As a strategic technology partner, Google Cloud will enable Bell to drive operational efficiencies, increase network automation, and deliver richer customer experiences through the following initiatives: Shifting critical workloads to the cloud: By moving and modernizing IT infrastructure, network functions, and critical applications from on-premise to Google Cloud, Bell will be able to drive greater operational efficiencies and enable better application performance.

By moving and modernizing IT infrastructure, network functions, and critical applications from on-premise to Google Cloud, Bell will be able to drive greater operational efficiencies and enable better application performance. Unlocking multicloud, next-generation network technology: With the combined power of Bell's 5G network and Anthos, Google Cloud's multicloud solution, Bell will deliver a consistent customer experience with greater automation and enhanced flexibility that scales with customer demand. The increased speed and bandwidth capacity of the Bell 5G network will support applications that can respond faster and handle greater volumes of data than previous generations of wireless technology.

With the combined power of Bell's 5G network and Anthos, Google Cloud's multicloud solution, Bell will deliver a consistent customer experience with greater automation and enhanced flexibility that scales with customer demand. The increased speed and bandwidth capacity of the Bell 5G network will support applications that can respond faster and handle greater volumes of data than previous generations of wireless technology. Leveraging the power of AI, data and analytics: Bell will leverage Google Cloud's expertise in AI and big data to gain unique insights through real-time network data analytics that will enhance the customer experience, improve service assurance, and assist with network capacity planning.

Bell will leverage Google Cloud's expertise in AI and big data to gain unique insights through real-time network data analytics that will enhance the customer experience, improve service assurance, and assist with network capacity planning. Joining forces on a sustainable future: Bell and Google share a common goal to run more sustainable businesses. As the cleanest cloud in the industry, Google Cloud will contribute to Bell's target of achieving carbon neutral operations by 2025 , and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 in line with the Paris Climate Agreement.



Mirko Bibic , CEO, BCE Inc. and Bell Canada . "Supporting Bell's goal to advance how Canadians connect with each other and the world, Google's proven expertise in cloud and leadership in sustainability will provide our customers with even faster, more reliable access to the best broadband network and communications services in Canada ." "The acceleration of 5G has created new opportunities for industry leaders like Bell to redefine their business and create richer customer experiences," said Thomas Kurian, CEO, Google Cloud. "We're proud to partner with Bell to support their transformational shift to the cloud, and power a better network experience for people and businesses across Canada."

As demands on mobile networks evolve and increase, Bell and Google Cloud will collaborate throughout the next decade on new innovations, including cloud solutions for enterprise customers and consumers powered by Google edge solutions, and enhanced customer service through automation and AI. In addition, the two companies will look at new ways to expand Bell's existing partnership with Google to evolve the network experience and introduction of next-generation services across residential, mobile, and more. About Google Cloud

Google Cloud accelerates organizations' ability to digitally transform their business with the best infrastructure, platform, industry solutions and expertise. We deliver enterprise-grade cloud solutions that leverage Google's cutting-edge technology to help companies operate more efficiently and adapt to changing needs, giving customers a foundation for the future. Customers in more than 200 countries and territories turn to Google Cloud as their trusted partner to solve their most critical business problems. About Bell

Bell is Canada's largest communications company, providing advanced broadband wireless, Internet, TV and business communication services throughout the country. Bell Media is Canada's premier multimedia company with leading assets in television, radio, out of home and digital media. Founded in Montreal in 1880, Bell is wholly owned by BCE (TSX, NYSE: BCE). To learn more, please visit Bell.ca or BCE.ca . Through Bell for Better , we are investing to create a better today and a better tomorrow by supporting the social and economic prosperity of our communities with a commitment to the highest environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards. This includes the Bell Let's Talk initiative, which promotes Canadian mental health with national awareness and anti-stigma campaigns like Bell Let's Talk Day and significant Bell funding of community care and access, research and workplace leadership initiatives throughout the country. To learn more, please visit Bell.ca/LetsTalk . View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bell-partners-with-google-cloud-to-deliver-next-generation-network-experiences-for-canadians-301334518.html SOURCE Google Cloud

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[July 15, 2021] BlackSky Welcomes New Vice President of International Business Development

BlackSky Holdings, Inc. ("BlackSky"), a leading technology platform providing real-time geospatial intelligence and global monitoring, today announced that it has hired Andy Stephenson to oversee the company's global sales team as its Vice President of International Business Development. Mr. Stephenson will be based in the United Kingdom, where he will lead the expansion of BlackSky's international sales efforts. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005268/en/ BlackSky Vice President of International Business Development, Andy Stephenson. Photo courtesy of Andy Stephenson. "With more than thirty years of experience as a sales leader in the defense and intelligence, technology, and information sectors, Andy is an ideal candidate to help BlackSky meet the increasing demand for geospatial intelligence worldwide," said Brian E. O'Toole, CEO of BlackSky. "He will be instrumental in leading BlackSky's international development activities to ensure customers around the world understand and have access to actionable insights that give them a first-to-know advantage." "I'm thrilled to lead BlackSky's business development efforts and extend the company's sales team abroad," said Andy Stephenson, vice president of international business development at BlackSky. "International markets are hungry for rapid access to real-time situational awareness and actionable intelligence. BlackSky is well-positioned to help customers in Europe and beyond meet these needs." Mr. Stephenson joins BlackSky after serving as vice president of international sales and customer success at Preligens, a company that develops artificial intelligence solutions for defense and intelligence customers. Previously, he was the senior director for defense, intelligence for the Asia-Pacific and European regions, and strategic international government programs for Maxar Technologies' European market. Mr. Stephenson has also held sales leadership roles at companies in the information technology and telecommunications sectors. Earlier this year, BlackSky announced a planned business combination with Osprey Technology Acquisition Corp. (NYSE: SFTW). BlackSky currently anticipates closing the transaction during the third quarter of 2021. About BlackSky Holdings, Inc. BlackSky is a leading provider of real-time geospatial intelligence. BlackSky monitors activities and facilities worldwide by harnessing the world's emerging sensor networks and leveraging its own satellite constellation. BlackSky processes millions of data elements daily from its constellation as well as a variety of space, IoT, and terrestrial-based sensors and data feeds. BlackSky's on-demand constellation of satellites can image a location multiple times throughout the day. BlackSky monitors for pattern-of-life anomalies to produce alerts and enhance situational awareness. BlackSky's monitoring service, Spectra AI, is powered by cutting-edge compute techniques including machine learning, artificial intelligence, computer vision, and natural language processing. BlackSky's global monitoring solution is available via a simple subscription and requires no IT infrastructure or setup. On February 17, 2021, BlackSky entered into a definitive agreement for a business combination (the "Merger Agreement") with Osprey Technology Acquisition Corp. ("Osprey") (NYSE: SFTW) that would result in BlackSky becoming a publicly listed company. For more information visit www.blacksky.com.



About Osprey Osprey is a special purpose acquisition company, or SPAC, that was established as a collaboration between investment firms HEPCO Capital Management, led by Jonathan and Edward Cohen, and JANA Partners, led by Barry Rosenstein and with its SPAC initiative led by JANA Partner David DiDomenico, who serves as Osprey's CEO, President, and Director. Osprey was formed to consummate a transaction with one or more transformative companies that have developed innovative software delivery platforms. For more information visit www.osprey-technology.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This document contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws with respect to the proposed transactions between Osprey and BlackSky. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words "believe," "project," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "intend," "strategy," "future," "opportunity," "plan," "may," "should," "will," "would," "will be," "will continue," "will likely result," and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this document, including but not limited to: (i) the risk that the transactions may not be completed in a timely manner or at all, which may adversely affect the price of Osprey's securities, (ii) the risk that the transactions may not be completed by Osprey's Business Combination deadline and the potential failure to obtain an extension of the Business Combination deadline if sought by Osprey, (iii) the failure to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the transactions, including the adoption of the Merger Agreement by the stockholders of Osprey, the satisfaction of the minimum trust account amount following redemptions by Osprey's public stockholders and the receipt of certain governmental and regulatory approvals, (iv) the lack of a third-party valuation in determining whether or not to pursue the proposed transactions, (v) the inability to complete the PIPE Investment, (vi) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the Merger Agreement, (vii) the effect of the announcement or pendency of the transactions on BlackSky's business relationships, operating results, and business generally, (viii) risks that the proposed transactions disrupt current plans and operations of BlackSky, (ix) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against BlackSky or against the Osprey related to the Merger Agreement or the proposed transactions, (x) the ability to maintain the listing of Osprey's securities on a national securities exchange, (xi) changes in the competitive and regulated industries in which BlackSky operates, variations in operating performance across competitors, changes in laws and regulations affecting BlackSky's business and changes in the combined capital structure, (xii) the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations after the completion of the proposed transactions, and identify and realize additional opportunities (xiii) the performance of our third-party service providers, including our satellite manufacturer and launch providers, (xiv) risks related to delays or cancellations from current or expected customers, (xv) the risk that redemptions by Osprey's public stockholders may require the combined company to seek additional equity and/or debt financing to fund its business plan, and (xvi) the effects of natural disasters, terrorist attacks and the spread and/or abatement of infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, on the proposed transactions or on the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations after the completion of the proposed transactions. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties described in the "Risk Factors" section of Osprey's registration on Form S-1 (File No. 333-234180), the registration statement on Form S-4 discussed below and other documents filed by Osprey from time to time with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the " SEC (News - Alert) "). These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and Osprey and BlackSky assume no obligation and do not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Neither Osprey nor BlackSky gives any assurance that either Osprey or BlackSky, or the combined company, will achieve its expectations. Additional Information and Where to Find It This document relates to the proposed transactions between Osprey and BlackSky. This document does not constitute an offer to sell or exchange, or the solicitation of an offer to buy or exchange, any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, sale or exchange would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. On May 13, 2021, Osprey filed a registration statement on Form S-4 with the SEC, as amended on June 25, 2021, which included a document that serves as a prospectus and proxy statement of Osprey, referred to as a proxy statement/prospectus. A proxy statement/prospectus will be sent to all Osprey stockholders. Osprey also will file other documents regarding the proposed transactions with the SEC. Before making any voting or investment decision, investors and security holders of Osprey are urged to read the registration statement, the proxy statement/prospectus and all other relevant documents filed or that will be filed with the SEC in connection with the proposed transactions as they become available because they will contain important information about the proposed transactions. Investors and security holders will be able to obtain free copies of the registration statement, the proxy statement/prospectus and all other relevant documents filed or that will be filed with the SEC by Osprey through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. The documents filed by Osprey with the SEC also may be obtained free of charge at Osprey's website at https://www.osprey-technology.com or from Osprey upon written request to 1845 Walnut Street, Suite 1111, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103. Participants in Solicitation Osprey and BlackSky and their directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from Osprey's stockholders in connection with the proposed transactions. Osprey's stockholders and other interested persons may obtain, without charge, more detailed information regarding the directors and officers of Osprey in Osprey's Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, which was filed with the SEC on May 12, 2021, and in Osprey's registration statement on Form S-4, which was filed by Osprey with the SEC in connection with the business combination on May 13, 2021. Information regarding the persons who may, under SEC rules, be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies to Osprey's stockholders in connection with the proposed business combination is set forth in the proxy statement/prospectus on Form S-4 for the proposed business combination, which was filed by Osprey with the SEC in connection with the business combination on May 13, 2021, as amended on June 25, 2021. A list of the names of such directors and executive officers and information regarding their interests in the transactions will be contained in the proxy statement/prospectus when available. You may obtain free copies of these documents as described in the preceding paragraph. This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a solicitation of any vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of any securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such other jurisdiction. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005268/en/

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[July 15, 2021] CI Global Asset Management Announces July 2021 Distributions for CI ETFs

CI Global Asset Management ("CI GAM") announces the following regular cash distributions for the month ending July 31, 2021 in respect of CI ETFs. In all cases, the distribution will be paid on or before July 30, 2021 to unitholders of record on July 26, 2021. The ex-dividend date for all ETFs is July 23, 2021, with the exception of CI High Interest Savings ETF, which has an ex-dividend date of July 26, 2021.







Trading Symbol Distribution Amount

(per unit) CI Canadian Convertible Bond ETF CXF $0.0400 CI Active Utility & Infrastructure ETF FAI $0.0444 CI Active Credit ETF FAO $0.0450 FAO.U $0.0450 (US$) CI Active Canadian Dividend ETF FDV $0.0312 CI Short Term Government Bond Index Class ETF FGB $0.0260 CI Investment Grade Bond ETF FIG $0.0320 FIG.U $0.0248 (US$) CI Preferred Share ETF FPR $0.0768 CI Enhanced Short Duration Bond Fund (ETF Series) FSB $0.0150 FSB.U $0.0150 (US$) CI Canadian REIT ETF RIT $0.0675 CI Global Asset Allocation Private Pool (ETF Series) CGAA $0.0173 CI High Interest Savings ETF CSAV $0.0247 CI Alternative Investment Grade Credit Fund (ETF Series) CRED $0.0500 CRED.U $0.0500 (US$) CI Marret Alternative Absolute Return Bond Fund (ETF Series) CMAR $0.0500 CMAR.U $0.0500 (US$) CI Marret Alternative Enhanced Yield Fund (ETF Series) CMEY $0.0510 CMEY.U $0.0510 (US$) CI Global REIT Private Pool (ETF Series) CGRE $0.0860 CI Global Infrastructure Private Pool (ETF Series) CINF $0.0690 CI Global Real Asset Private Pool (ETF Series) CGRA $0.0770 CI DoubleLine Core Plus Fixed Income US$ Fund (ETF Series) CCOR $0.0338 CCOR.B $0.0304 CCOR.U $0.0339 (US$) CI DoubleLine Income US$ Fund (ETF Series) CINC $0.0963 CINC.B $0.0865 CINC.U $0.0966 (US$) CI DoubleLine Total Return Bond US$ Fund (ETF Series) CDLB $0.0388 CDLB.B $0.0348 CDLB.U $0.0388 (US$) CI Yield Enhanced Canada Aggregate Bond Index ETF CAGG $0.0990 CI Yield Enhanced Canada Short-Term Aggregate Bond Index ETF CAGS $0.0774 CI ONE North American Core Plus Bond ETF ONEB $0.0640

Supporting investors' needs Stay in the market, minimize costs, and take advantage of a smart, simple and efficient feature designed to support investors' needs. The CI Distribution Reinvestment Plan (DRIP) will automatically reinvest cash distributions into the CI ETF making the distribution. All of the distributions indicated in the table above will be paid in cash unless the unitholder has enrolled in the applicable DRIP of the respective ETF. A copy of the Distribution Reinvestment Plan is available at www.firstasset.com. About CI Global Asset Management CI Global Asset Management is one of Canada's largest investment management companies. It offers a wide range of investment products and services and is on the web at www.ci.com. CI Global Asset Management is a subsidiary of CI Financial Corp. (TSX: CIX, NYSE: CIXX), an independent company offering global asset management and wealth management advisory services with $288.3 billion in total assets as of May 31, 2021. This communication is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to purchase exchange-traded funds (ETFs) managed by CI Global Asset Management and is not, and should not be construed as, investment, tax, legal or accounting advice, and should not be relied upon in that regard. Individuals should seek the advice of professionals, as appropriate, regarding any particular investment. Investors should consult their professional advisors prior to implementing any changes to their investment strategies. These investments may not be suitable to the circumstances of an investor. Some conditions apply. Commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with an investment in ETFs. You will usually pay brokerage fees to your dealer if you purchase or sell units of an ETF on recognized Canadian exchanges. If the units are purchased or sold on these Canadian exchanges, investors may pay more than the current net asset value when buying units of the ETF and may receive less than the current net asset value when selling them. Please read the prospectus before investing. Important information about an exchange-traded fund (ETF) is contained in its prospectus. ETFs are not guaranteed; their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated. CI Global Asset Management is a registered business name of CI Investments Inc. CI Investments Inc. 2021. All rights reserved. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005232/en/

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Duality Quantum Accelerator Accepts Six Startups into Inaugural Cohort

Duality, the nation's first accelerator exclusively for quantum companies, has accepted six startups for Cohort 1. Duality is led by the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Chicago and the Chicago Quantum Exchange (CQE), along with founding partners, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Argonne National Laboratory, and P33.

Launched in April 2021, Duality is the first-of-its-kind accelerator aimed at supporting next-generation startups focused on quantum science and technology. The 12-month program provides world-class business and entrepreneurship training from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Polsky Center, and the opportunity to engage the networks, facilities, and programming from the Chicago Quantum (News - Alert) Exchange, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Argonne National Laboratory, and P33.

"Quantum technologies of the future that address unmet needs with disruptive business models simply cannot be built in isolation," said Chuck Vallurupalli, the newly appointed senior director of Duality and a seasoned business executive with over 20 years of experience scaling startups. "We are pleased to welcome six startups into the inaugural cohort of Duality and offer them a unique set of resources to help them grow."

The six companies selected for Cohort 1 of Dualityare:







Axion Technologies, a Tallahassee, FL-based company led by Carol Scarlett, is developing a quantum random number generator for high performance computing systems.

Great Lakes Crystal Technologies, an East Lansing, MI-based company led by Keith Evans, is developing a commercial manufacturing process for semiconductor-grade diamond materials for photonics, electronics, and quantum technology applications.

qBraid, a Hanover, NH-based company led by Kanav Setia, is developing a cloud-based platform for managed access to other quantum computing software and hardware.

QuantCAD, an Iowa City, Iowa-based company led by Michael Flatte, is developing simulation software for modelling noise and current in quantum devices such as high-resolution quantum sensors.

Quantopticon, a Guildford, UK-based company led by Mirella Koleva, is developing simulation software for designing and optimizing quantum optical devices.

Super.tech, a Chicago, IL-based company led by Pranav Gokhale, is developing software that accelerates quantum computing applications by optimizing across the system stack from algorithms to control pulses.

These companies were selected from a competitive pool of applicants from all over the globe and vetted by an internal review process. The selected ventures were approved by Duality's Governing Board.

"On behalf of the Governing Board, I am excited to welcome this inaugural cohort of innovators to Duality," said Juan de Pablo, vice president for national laboratories, science strategy, innovation, and global initiatives at the University of Chicago and chair of the Duality Governing Board. "We look forward to providing them with critical support from the University of Chicago and our Duality partners to help them unlock the potential of quantum technology and grow their companies."

"These six startups represent a diverse set of quantum-enabling technologies and applications," said Susan Martinis, vice chancellor for research and innovation at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and vice chair of the Duality Governing Board. "I am eager for the companies in this cohort to work closely with our quantum experts at the University of Illinois and in the region to further develop and refine their business models."

Through Duality, each startup in Cohort 1 will receive $50,000 in unrestricted funding and mentorship from top quantum experts. Selected startups will have the opportunity to explore partnerships with and access to some of the region's state-of-the-art equipment and facilities for advanced computing, nanofabrication, atomic scale measurement, quantum testbeds, and other premier resources from the University of Chicago, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and Argonne National Laboratory. The region has become a burgeoning hub for quantum technology and new venture creation and is home to three of eight federally funded Department of Energy and National Science Foundation quantum research centers, including Q-NEXT, led by Argonne National Laboratory, Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems Center (SQMS), led by Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, and Hybrid Quantum Architectures and Networks (HQAN), led by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

"We're excited to be working with Duality and their cohort of startups, to foster the development of breakthrough technologies and quantum solutions," said Michael Brett, worldwide business development leader for quantum computing at Amazon Web Services (AWS), one of the corporate supporters for Duality. "Duality's approach to accelerating innovation in quantum computing with strong ties to research and academic organizations makes a lot of sense. AWS shares Duality's commitment to collaborate with startups, national labs and research organizations to help the entire quantum industry develop more useful technologies for customers, faster."

"Resources provided through Duality will be game-changing for these early-stage ventures," said Dan Caruso (News - Alert) , executive chairman of ColdQuanta and managing director of Caruso Ventures, which is also one of the corporate partners for Duality. "By providing customized expertise and guidance, we can help these companies reach critical milestones in this fast-growing area."

The programming for Cohort 1 of Duality officially kicked off this week with remote learning due to COVID-19 considerations, but the plan is to transition to in-person learning and bring each of the companies to Chicago later this year.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005258/en/
[July 15, 2021] Durapower Group, Ecomar Propulsion And The University Of Exeter Join Hands To Boost Sustainable Shipping

Keeping in line with the world's aims of gradually reducing carbon emissions, the consortium plans to scale-up Ecomar Propulsion's zero emission systems for large vessels.

The collaboration is a result of the consortium's participation in the 2nd Eureka Globalstars-Singapore Call; the funding support received will be essential in furthering the Research & Development on hydrogen power to recharge Lithium-Ion Batteries. SINGAPORE, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Durapower Group, together with strategic partners Ecomar Propulsion and the University of Exeter, is pleased to announce that the consortium will work towards developing new Zero Emission Powertrain Systems for Maritime vessels, with grant support awarded through the 2nd Eureka Globalstars-Singapore Call. The project is in line with the International Maritime Organisation's (IMO) goal to halve carbon emissions by 2050 and boost sustainable shipping. The partnership has been made possible through the consortium's participation in the 2nd Eureka Globalstars-Singapore Call, organised by the Eureka network and Enterprise Singapore[1] in May 2020. This initiative is a joint funding programme to catalyse co-innovation projects between entities from Singapore and 14 participating Eureka member countries[2]. The grant awarded to the consortium is jointly funded by Enterprise Singapore and Innovate UK. This funding marks a significant milestone in the consortium's journey towards supporting international efforts to tackle climate change, eventually allowing larger vessels, tankers and freighters to steer free of emissions. As the world looks to address the impact of climate change through innovative green technologies, the need for eco-friendly propulsion systems in the maritime sector becomes crucial. Already, shipping emits approximately 940 million tonnes[3] of exhaust gases, placing the maritime sector in sixth place of the world's Greenhouse Gas emitting industries. To meet the IMO's aim of reducing carbon emissions in shipping by 40%[4], Durapower Group will be supporting Ecomar Propulsion and The University of Exeter in the development of large battery systems to power green shipping. Durapower Group is also a participant in Enterprise Singapore's Scale-up SG programme, and works closely with the agency on its growth plans to further expand globally. Ecomar Propulsion's Energy-efficient Propulsion System Globally, the shipping sector is responsible for transporting over 80% of all goods traded[5]. From cruise liners and tugs to tankers, most vessels travel in environmentally-sensitive regions. Hence, breakthroughs in green shipping technology are essential. One critical next step is to advance the research into hybrid hydrogen on-board -power for recharge of lithium-ion batteries are underway. These advances are expected to impact a multitude of large-scale commercial applications, including vessels. Designed with both the environment and ship owners in mind, Ecomar Propulsion's energy-efficient systems will soon be installed on smaller-sized vessels such as fishing vessels and harbour craft. All components of the power generation solution, including the control strategy, battery charger, motors, cooling and exhaust systems offer significant emissions and fuel savings. Says Kelvin Lim, Chief Executive Officer, Durapower Group: "We're delighted to be working hand-in-hand with both The University of Exeter and Ecomar Propulsion to help electrify the engineering company's propulsion systems with our high-performance lithium-ion battery solutions for future commercial applications, particularly for vessels. We've been brought together as a result of the Eureka Globalstars-Singapore Call. The funding and support from Enterprise Singapore and Innovate UK will enable all parties to play a transformational role in the maritime sector, helping the industry eliminate or reduce the amount of carbon emissions produced by vessels of sizes." Says Anthony Bennett, Senior Executive Director, Ecomar Propulsion: "Marine is one of the most polluting types of transport in the world and we want to help change that. Our powertrains are totally clean; we remove the diesel and petrol polluting engines from the vessels, and we install zero emissions alternatives powered by battery and hydrogen cells. This project concentrates mainly on the batteries." Adds Ecomar Propulsion's Managing Director, Eugene Bari: "We work exclusively with commercial marine organisations. Adding a 1MWh marine capability greatly enhances our profile and capabilities for commercial organisations. Shipping needs bigger systems which take huge investment and without this funding, we wouldn't have been able to develop the one-megawatt-hour system with our partners in Singapore so quickly." Professor Chris Smith at The University of Exeter says: "The integration of clean power technology into maritime powertrains is challenging and fast changing. Issues concerning multiple fuel types, rapid changes in prices of key components such as batteries, fuel cells, and motors make systems integration together into vessels capable of carrying out their usual roles very challenging. Our AI-enabled simulation code, refined over several years, can design zero emissions powertrains to meet the task and with lowest possible costs." Durapower Group's Contributions To Environmental Sustainability Since 2012, Durapower Group has been active in the Maritime sector, electrifying port equipment and vessels of sizes by delivering innovative lithium-ion batteries and energy storage solutions (ESS) for commercial vessels that deliver actual Returns On Investments. In addition to boosting sustainable shipping activities, Durapower Group is also reinforcing its commitment to protect the planet by highlighting its key environmental sustainability initiatives. Backed by strong global demand for innovative solutions that are clean and green, Durapower Group aims to become a key solutions provider in the maritime sector, offering a diverse range of energy-efficient marine-related Lithium-Ion Battery and containerised Energy Storage Solutions that will benefit both ship owners and ports of call.







[1] Enterprise Singapore is the government agency championing enterprise development in Singapore. Eureka is an intergovernmental network established in 1985, which supports market-oriented R&D and innovation projects by industry, research centres and universities across all technological sectors. [2] The 2nd Eureka Globalstars-Singapore Call supports the facilitation and funding of joint innovation projects between entities from Singapore and 14 participating Eureka member countries, namely Austria, Belgium (Flanders), Canada, Estonia, Hungary, the Netherlands, Poland, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom. [3] European Commission, Reducing Emissions From The Shipping Sector, accessed 12 July 2021. [4] IISD Knowledge Hub, IMO Advances Measures To Reduce Emissions From International Shipping, accessed 12 July 2021. [5] Ocean Shipping Worldwide, Statista, Statistics & Facts, accessed 12 July 2021.



SOURCE Durapower Technology

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[July 15, 2021] Energage Announces Recipients of Top Workplaces Quarterly National Culture Excellence Awards

Energage, a technology company that empowers workplace excellence and the organization behind the Top Workplaces awards, this week revealed the winners of its quarterly national Culture Excellence Awards, which recognize companies based on employee feedback. Companies from across the nation were applauded for creating a just and welcoming culture in five areas: Compensation, Employee Value Prop, Formal Training, Top Managers, and Work-Life Flexibility. Click to tweet. The July 2021 Top Workplaces National Culture Excellence awards are based solely on employee feedback from Energage's anonymous, science-based, employee engagement survey. Organizations are evaluated against the industry's most robust benchmark, based on Energage's 15 years of research and data from 70,000 organizations and 23 million employee surveys. "As companies struggle to recruit and retain employees, it's crucial for businesses to establish cultures demonstrating that associates are welcomed, valued and treated justly," said Dan Kessler, president and chief operating officer of Energage. "The awards this quarter showcase companies that are doing this exceptionally well, are listening to employee feedback, and are taking steps for continuous improvement." The following organizations were ranked highest by employees on the Q3 Top Workplaces National Culture Excellence awards. For a complete list of all award recipients in each category, click on the award names below. Compensation-The Compensation Award highlights organizations where employees believe the pay they receive is fair for the work they do. Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation (2,500+ employees)

LMI (1,000-2,499 employees)

Benjamin F. Edwards (500-999 employees)

BrainTrust (150-499 employees) Employee Value Proposition-This award recognizes companies that continue to meet the expectations tht employees had when they started their jobs.



PrimeLending (2,500+ employees)

LJA Engineering (1,000-2,499 employees)

Benjamin F. Edwards (500-999 employees)

Cooperative Association for Special Education (150-499 employees) Formal Training-These organizations achieved the highest scores for providing the formal training employees want for their careers. Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation (2,500+ employees)

Team Rehabilitation Services, Inc. (1,000-2,499 employees)

Assurance(500-999 employees)

First American Equipment Finance (150-499 employees) Top Managers-At these Top Workplaces, employees believe managers genuinely care about their concerns, help them to learn, and encourage them to grow.

Progressive Insurance (2,500+ employees)

Union Home Mortgage Corporation (1,000-2,499 employees)

Eight Eleven Group (500-999 employees)

Fenix Consulting Group (150-499 employees) Work-Life Flexibility-These Top Workplaces provide employees the flexibility they need to maintain a healthy balance between work and their personal lives. Hyland (2,500+ employees)

HubSpot (News - Alert) (1,000-2,499 employees)

Benjamin F. Edwards (500-999 employees)

Kyruus (150-499 employees) National Culture Excellence Awards are announced each quarter throughout the year, with the next announcement in October 2021. The October awards will recognize Top Workplaces in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Remote Work, and Caregivers. Organizations that complete the survey process no later than August 20, 2021 are eligible for the awards. Energage supports the Top Workplaces national awards program, as well as regional employer recognition programs in 58 markets nationwide, in partnership with major media outlets such as The Washington Post, The Boston Globe, The Dallas Morning News, Star Tribune, Chicago Tribune and The Arizona Republic. For more information about Top Workplaces regional and national programs, including Top Workplaces USA, Industry, and quarterly Culture Excellence awards, please go here. About Energage Energage is a purpose-driven technology company that powers Top Workplaces, the premier employer recognition program. Analyzing data from a short, research-based employee survey, Energage identifies people-first Top Workplaces across the country, as well as regionally in partnership with 58 of the nation's most reputable media outlets. National, quarterly awards recognize Top Workplaces in culture-specific topics important to job seekers, such as Appreciation, Compensation, DE&I, Remote Work, Woman-Led, Work-Life Flexibility, and more. Energage empowers organizations to exceed the competition, evaluate where they stand in the market, and engage with employees. More than 70,000 organizations have completed over 23 million employee surveys, including some of the nation's leading brands: Accenture (News - Alert) , Ace Hardware, The Atlanta Hawks, Go Daddy, Facebook, Hubspot, Microsoft, Progressive Insurance, Salesforce and Wayfair. For more information or to nominate your organization, visit energage.com or topworkplaces.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005057/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Escalon and Early Growth Launch New And Done Branding to Better Support Their Leadership in the Essential Business Services Category

Escalon and Early Growth, leading Essential Business Services (EBS) providers, announced today their "And done." brand for both companies that strikes at the core of the biggest challenge for small businesses, mid-sized businesses and startups - making sure back-office operations, such as accounting, HR, payroll, recruiting and taxes get done and done right. The new branding debuted today at the India COVID Relief Fundraiser virtual event that featured a panel of Who's Who SMB and startup experts discussing business in a post-COVID environment, including Daymond John of ABC's Shark Tank. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005969/en/ The new "And done." brand centers on businesses being able to turn to Escalon and Early Growth to just "take that work off their plate and get it done for them," Escalon CEO Anurag Pal said. The "And done." moniker is captured in creative articulating it for both companies - "Escalon. And Done." and "EarlyGrowth. And Done." Escalon Chairman Ruby Sahiwal added, "We have been building this for the last 15 years and are now the leader in this massive category called Essential Business Services with close to 5000 clients. So, we not only created this new category to see the market from the customer's perspective, but we are also redefining how such functions are consumed. We are proud to anounce our new brand - which revolves around our promise of DONE!"



Focal points of the new branding are the websites of Escalon and Early Growth. Both were overhauled to feature the new look and feel of the branding with a heavy emphasis on getting Essential Business Services, aka back-office work, done for customers. The new designs also feature a robust content library full of advice and tips for businesses of all sizes, along with an array of testimonials from some of Escalon's 5,000 clients and Early Growth's 5,000 clients. "The Escalon and Early Growth brands are together in our promise of not viewing the world through narrow supplier self-interest but from the customer's vantage point and delivering high-quality strategic advice and taking care of all Essential Business Services," said Pal. "Back-office operations are essential but can be consuming, challenging. As our branding would suggest, eliminate the hassle, and turn to our two companies to, well, just get it done."

About Escalon Services Since 2006, Escalon has shepherded over 5,000 companies across many verticals and in 22 countries. We have helped businesses grow from one person in the garage to IPO and beyond, and we have been named to Inc. Magazine's Inc. 5000 list three times over the past four years. We provide a one-stop shop for the integrated solutions we call Essential Business Services (EBS). EBS gives clients a seamless, audit-ready solution for Financial Ops, People Ops and Risk. About Early Growth Financial Services Early Growth Financial Services provides accounting, CFO, tax, and valuation services, supporting 18% of privately funded, venture-backed startup companies in the U.S. With operations in Silicon Valley, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Austin, Chicago, Boulder, Seattle and New York City, Early Growth's customers include Indiegogo, TechShop, Quip Inc., Live Love Polish, Japan Crate and 400+ other small- to mid-size businesses worldwide. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005969/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Former CIA Chief Technology Officer Gus Hunt Joins VAST Federal

NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- VAST Federal , a VAST Data subsidiary that helps government agencies modernize their data centric operations with mission-ready storage solutions, today announced former CIA Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Gus Hunt has joined as its newest board member. In this role, Hunt will rely on his years of experience in the public sector to advise the company on its continued federal expansion. VAST Federal helps the US federal government and defense organizations unlock the full potential of their data by providing them with the industry's only cloud storage platform that combines the speed of an all-flash system with the affordability of an archive to quickly analyze and respond to national security situations in real-time.

Hunt served as CTO at the CIA from 2008 until 2013, a role that followed his previous stint as Director of Applications Services for the agency. While there, he set the information technology strategic direction and future technology investment plan for the CIA. Hunt now serves as CEO of private consulting practice Hunt Technologies. The addition of Gus to the VAST Federal board bolsters our efforts in providing the public sector with a unified solution that delivers Storage as a Service for data-driven intelligence, said Randy Hayes, Vice President of VAST Federal. Gus understands the key inflection points for the opportunity within the federal government and we look forward to him bringing this deep-rooted knowledge nd forward-thinking expertise into the VAST universe.



The reality is that the federal government lives in a multi-cloud world  on-prem solutions coupled with multiple off-prem solutions  and the sophisticated algorithms that VAST has designed into its all-flash cloud solution allow it to uniquely serve as the bedrock of analytics and AI for todays data-driven agencies, said Hunt. As the federal landscape only becomes more complex, there is a growing need for solutions that cost-effectively provide a rich mix of performance, scale, capacity, and intelligence and VASTs Universal Storage platform provides a superior approach to managing and extracting value from vast reserves of information. The federal government collects and monitors large amounts of data across a myriad of sectors from defense and cybersecurity to aerospace and social services. Federal IT leaders are looking to streamline their data-centric operations to quickly analyze data to identify suspicious activity, enhance mission-critical capabilities or enable research breakthroughs, without overburdening the budget. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC) are transforming the way government agencies draw insights from data to better understand potential threats and respond to new demands or unexpected emergencies. VAST offers technological innovations that improve overall infrastructure performance for AI and HPC environments in addition to making the system much more cost-effective compared to legacy systems and even other all-flash systems.

For more information on VAST Federal, including the benefits it provides to various federal agencies including the U.S. Department of Defense, the U.S. Department of Energy, National Institutes of Health, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, please visit vastfederal.com . About VAST Federal

VAST Federal, a subsidiary of VAST Data headquartered in Vienna, Virginia, helps the federal government modernize data center infrastructure with a unified all-flash platform called VAST Universal Storage. VAST Federals broad understanding of US government contracts, security requirements, and architectural needs for real-time analytic models brings a new approach to the era of AI computing. VAST Data Resources Vastdata.com

Vastfederal.com

Twitter: twitter.com/VAST_Data

Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/vast-data/

Youtube: youtube.com/VASTData

Careers @ VAST Data: vastdata.com/careers Media Contact

Highwire PR for VAST Data

vastdata@highwirepr.com



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[July 15, 2021] Garage and Dynamite Partner with Uber to Provide Customers With Same-Day Delivery in Southern Ontario

TORONTO, July 15, 2021 /CNW/ - Today, Canadian fashion retailer Groupe Dynamite Inc. announced the launch of its second partnership with Uber, offering same-day delivery for $10 CAD from participating stores across Southern Ontario. As the first national retailer in Canada to offer this service back in December 2020 in Montreal, Groupe Dynamite Inc. is proud to offer customers of its two brands, Garage and Dynamite, a convenient and timely delivery solution as stores begin to re-open. "The success of our pilot program in Montreal was a clear indication that we needed to expand this service to other regions," says Liz Edmiston, President and Chief Executive Officer, Groupe Dynamite Inc. "Our partnership with Uber is monumental for our company and presents an opportunity for us to find new and innovative ways to connect with our customers nationwide." Building on the success of its initial launch, Groupe Dynamite Inc. continues to work with the ride-share company to expand the service to more areas across Canada throughout 2021. With malls still closed and stores operating at only 15% capacity in Ontario, Uber joins Groupe Dynamite Inc. in their effort to continue offering customers exceptional service by providing an innovative solution to in-store shopping and curbside pick-up. Fans of the company's brands, Garage and Dynamite, can now shop summer's newest styles and accessories, and receive their order right at their front door within hours of ordering. "As Canada re-opens, we've been focused on innovating and building new products to help businesses and users send and receive items easier and faster than before," said Lola Kassim, GM of Uber's Canadian Delivery business. "We're proud to work wth Canadian retailer Groupe Dynamite to expand same-day delivery and offer a more seamless delivery experience for Ontario customers."



How It Works

Uber same-day delivery will be available for $10 CAD to eligible customers at checkout on the Garage and Dynamite e-commerce websites and apps. To be eligible, orders must be placed before 3 p.m. ET and all items ordered must be available at the participating shipping centre. The service area includes shipping addresses within a radius of up to 15 km around participating stores across Southern Ontario. Customers who opt for same-day service will receive a link to track their delivery on the Uber Eats websiteno app necessary! About Garage

Garage is the voice of the confident independent individual who is not afraid of living out loud and expressing their personality. Our goal is to inspire individuals everywhere, empowering them to turn up the volume on who they are. Garage dresses the modern sexy, on-trend individual for their casual lifestyle and provides seasonless apparel and accessories including denim, knit tops, dresses, outerwear, swim and intimates. Created in Montreal in 1975, Garage has established itself as a leader in the fashion and retail landscape with over 230 stores across North America and available globally at garageclothing.com .

About Dynamite

Created for the multifaceted woman on the move, Dynamite is the epitome of femininity and versatility. Rooted in fashion workwear, we draw inspiration from the runway and the street. At Dynamite, you'll find curated collections that take you from work to weekend, and include timeless essentials, evening looks and luxe loungewear. As a leading lifestyle brand, Dynamite connects to its community through engaging content encouraging women to follow their aspirations; confidently navigating through life with style, strength, and ease. Established in 1984 in Montreal, Dynamite has over 115 retail locations across Canada and the US. In addition, you can find us at dynamiteclothing.com . About Groupe Dynamite Inc.

Groupe Dynamite Inc. (GDI) is a Montreal-based privately held global retailer designing and creating accessible fashion since 1975. The retailer's two leading clothing and accessory brands, Garage and Dynamite, are at the core of its success. Operating over 300 stores across North America, GDI offers style-focused consumers an omnichannel shopping experience. At fashion's forefront in North America, Groupe Dynamite's agile and innovative executive team understand that success and longevity are fueled by a creative and inclusive culture. Groupe Dynamite Inc. is the recipient of the prestigious Montreal's Employer of the Year Award and Canada's Top Employer for Young People Award. About Uber Canada:

Uber's mission is to create opportunity through movement. Co-founded by Calgarian entrepreneur Garrett Camp, we started in 2010 to solve a simple problem: how do you get access to a ride at the touch of a button? More than 10 billion trips later, we're building products to get people closer to where they want to be. By changing how people, food, and things move through cities, Uber is a platform that opens up the world to new possibilities. For more information, visit uber.com. SOURCE Garage

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[July 15, 2021] Growatt becomes the global No.1 inverter brand for residential solar

SHENZHEN, China, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Growatt has become the world's No.1 supplier of residential inverter, taking 16.6% of the market share in 2020 according to IHS Markit's latest PV Inverter Market Tracker report. Since its establishment in 2010, the Chinese manufacturer has been focusing on distributed generation and has brought about strong competitive advantages over other brands in the sector. "We are very proud to become the No.1 supplier in global residential market, and that millions of households are now using Growatt inverters to convert solar power for their use," commented Lisa Zhang, marketing director at Growatt. Over the years, the company has built an extensive service network with 20 offices around the world to provide efficient local support fo customers.



Product and technology innovation is the key to Growatt's success according to Zhang. The company's R&D team has brought sleek and compact design as well as smart, safe and reliable functionalities to its latest innovation, the X inverter series. The new generation inverters are not only appealing to end users, but are also very popular among installers because it's lightweight, easy to install and has remote monitoring function that makes maintenance easier and reduces O&M costs. "For residential solar, Growatt is the top choice for many. Our team pursues excellence, and a large number of tests are done and improvements made to ensure that the products installed worldwide perform reliably," Zhang added. With more than a decade of experience in quality engineering, Growatt has developed the five-step quality engineering system, which is a comprehensive and systematic quality control approach the company adopts for products from its design and development stage to mass production.

Looking ahead, Zhang believes for future generations, PV inverter will become a must-have household 'appliance' as solar energy becomes more accessible. "Our team is constantly working closely with our partners around the world to enable customers to have clear and convenient access to clean energy. We believe together we can make a difference!" Zhang concluded. About Growatt Founded in 2010, Growatt is a global leader of smart energy solutions. It is the world's No.1 residential solar inverter supplier according to IHS Markit. The company also ranks among the world's top 5 suppliers of three-phase string inverters for commercial and industrial projects. Contact: Whiskey Lu, whiskey.lu@growatt.com View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/growatt-becomes-the-global-no1-inverter-brand-for-residential-solar-301334620.html SOURCE Growatt

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[July 15, 2021] Infotools Releases Paper on Optimizing Marketing-Related Data in the Data Lake

AUCKLAND, New Zealand, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Infotools , a global leader in market research analysis solutions, has released a new paper, " Survey data, meet data lake. Data lake, meet survey data ." The paper outlines powerful ways for businesses to get the most out of marketing-related data stored in a data lake, including high-value primary research data. It dives into the unique complexities of this type of data and how to best handle them, so that businesses can focus on key goals, like innovation, customer service, and the development of products and services. "We know that consumer insights are a vital data stream that many organizations are storing in their data lakes," said Geoff Lowe of Infotools. "With our lessons learned and experience working with some of the world's largest brands, we've come up with solutions that will help businesses use this data to their best advantage." Businesses want to use their marketing-related data to help map customer journeys, understand motivations, and proactively develop products, services, and communicaions that will lead to organizational success. Shaping survey data properly, both on its way into and out of the data lake, is a critical part in building understanding about why consumers or customers are doing what they are doing, and informing ways to optimize their journey.



"Survey data, meet data lake. Data lake, meet survey data" explores some vital themes such as:

Optimizing the technology stack used to import and access the information stored in data lakes or other cloud-storage repositories



Handling the complexities of survey data analysis and reporting, including weighting, multi-level responses, and data relationships and comparisons



Extracting the most value from the data stored in the data lake with solutions that work within a company's existing environment, including complying with security protocols and processes. The full paper can be downloaded here: https://web.infotools.com/survey-data-meet-data-lake

About Infotools

Infotools is an award-winning software and services provider specializing in processing, analyzing, visualizing and sharing market research data. The company offers a powerful cloud-based software platform, Harmoni, which is purpose-built for market research data, and data experts who can drive data harmonization, insights discovery, analysis, visualization and reporting. Established in 1990, and with a presence in the US, Europe, South Africa and New Zealand, Infotools works with some of the world's best-known brands, including Coca-Cola, Shell, Orange, Samsung and Mondelez. For more information, visit www.infotools.com or follow on Twitter @infotools. Media contact: Marie Melsheimer, 314488@email4pr.com, +1-541-815-3951 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/infotools-releases-paper-on-optimizing-marketing-related-data-in-the-data-lake-301334589.html SOURCE Infotools

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[July 15, 2021] IRONSCALES Celebrates Revenue Growth, New Senior Executives and New Headquarters

Following a successful 2020, which saw a 72 percent increase in revenue, IRONSCALES, the pioneer of self-learning email security, continues its momentum into 2021 with powerful mid-year results and expansion. In the first half of 2021, IRONSCALES drove YoY revenue growth by 96 percent, added over 1,000 customers, hired key executive team members and expanded into a new Atlanta location. "Our continued growth obviously calls for internal celebration, but we are just as excited about what this growth means for current and future clients," said Eyal Benishti, CEO and Founder of IRONSCALES. "One of IRONSCALES key differentiators is our Community and how we use crowd-sourcing to provide email protection in real-time at scale. Our continued growth means that we can better protect our customers against ever-increasing email threats." Last quarter, IRONSCALES added more than 100,000 mailboxes to the number it protects daily. Since January, the company has added more than 1,100 customers, reaching more than 3,500 globally. The company also added two members to its Senior Leadership Team: Julia Blachan, Director of Global HR and David Habusha, Senior Vice President of Product Management. Blachman will be responsible for creating and managing the global people strategy and Habusha will focus on further developing the company's product offerings. The company increased total headcount by 30 percent since January.



In May, the company also revamped its channel partner program. The program saw an increase in new channel partnerships, driven by expansion in 18 markets such as India, United Arab Emirates and South Africa. Finally, the company moved its Atlanta headquarters into a new 3,000 square-foot office space. The larger space not only accommodates new team members, but also provides space for additional growth while in proximity to Atlanta's thriving technology community.

About IRONSCALES

IRONSCALES is an industry-leading email security company focused on fighting back against today's modern phishing attacks. Our self-learning, AI-driven platform continuously detects and remediates advanced threats like Business Email Compromise (BEC), credential harvesting, Account Takeover (ATO) and more. IRONSCALES' powerfully simple email security solution is fast to deploy, easy to manage and keeps customers safe. Founded in Tel Aviv, Israel in 2014 by alumni of the Israel Defense Force's elite Intelligence Technology unit, IRONSCALES is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, with additional offices in Tel Aviv, Israel and the United Kingdom. IRONSCALES supports thousands of customers globally with its award-winning, analyst-recognized email security solution. Visit http://www.ironscales.com to learn more. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005250/en/

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[July 15, 2021] IRP Systems Partners with Sona Comstar to Bring Revolutionary Magnet-Less E-motors Technology to The Electric Vehicles Market

TEL-AVIV, Israel and GURUGRAM, India, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- IRP Systems, the leading provider of cutting-edge electric powertrain solutions for e-mobility, has signed today a strategic agreement with Sona Comstar, a leading global automotive component manufacturer, to jointly develop and commercialize magnet-less e-motors and controllers for the electric 2- and 3-wheeler platforms. Under the agreement, IRP will license its technology to Sona Comstar for manufacturing of the system exclusively in India, expecting to start mass production in 2023. IRP's one of its kind control technology, Sona Comstar's state-of-the-art manufacturing capabilities, and its global reach give rise to new possibilities in mass electric mobility. Affordable and scalable e-powertrain solutions that can address the growing mass-market demand are in the epicenter of the electrification revolution. IRP's TrueDrive technology, implemented in magnet-less e-motors, will be a real game-changer, as it would enable overall system cost reduction without compromising on its performance. "This is another step in IRP's mission to lead the automotive ecosystem with innovative and sustainable technology. Our technology ensures not only cleaner air but also a more environmental-friendly production process and responsible use of natural resources. We are excited to partner with a global, leading player such as Sona Comstar to bring the product to the mass market," said Moran Price, IRP Systems Co-founder, and CEO. "We are excited with this partnership because it will help India reduce its dependence on imports of critical raw materials and is well-aligned with the Prime Minister's vision of an atmanirhar Bharat ('self-reliant India'). The system developed through this partnership will be an enviromentally compatible and cost-effective solution that would ensure the security of natural resources by avoiding the use of rare earth elements," said Kiran Deshmukh, CTO of Sona Comstar.



The partnership was facilitated by iCreate (International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology), India's leading institution for transforming startups based on tech innovation into successful businesses. About IRP Systems

IRP Systems provides high-performance electric powertrain systems for a variety of e-mobility platforms, enabling powerful and affordable electric vehicles. Leveraging its unique powertrain design and control algorithms, the company's breakthrough TrueDrive product portfolio reaches an unprecedented level of efficiency. IRP Systems is removing the last barriers of electric vehicle adoption by making electric mobility technology affordable for the mass market and accelerating its adoption worldwide. About Sona-Comstar Sona Comstar is an Indian origin, global automotive systems and components manufacturer with nine plants spread across India, China, Mexico, and the USA. The company is one of India's leading automotive technology companies, designing, manufacturing, and supplying highly engineered, mission-critical automotive systems and components such as differential assemblies, differential gears, conventional and micro-hybrid starter motors, BSG systems, EV traction motors (BLDC and PMSM) and motor control units to automotive OEMs across the US, Europe, India, and China, across all vehicle categories such as conventional passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, off-highway vehicles, electric cars, electric light commercial vehicles, and electric two & three-wheelers. About iCreate iCreate (International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology) is an autonomous centre of excellence of the Government of Gujarat, and is India's leading institution for transforming startups based on tech innovation into successful businesses. Located in a state-of-the-art 40-acre campus at Dev Dholera in Ahmedabad, till date, it has supported 389 innovations and 30 patents with a 'high-touch, entrepreneur-first' model, connecting them with mentors, markets and money. Embedded systems and IoT are a focus area for iCreate, in domains like Electric Vehicles, Renewable Energy, Agritech, Healthtech, Fintech, Watertech, among others. It is home to Cisco's largest Innovation Lab in India and has partnerships with leading institutions in the US, Israel, and other countries. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/irp-systems-partners-with-sona-comstar-to-bring-revolutionary-magnet-less-e-motors-technology-to-the-electric-vehicles-market-301334875.html SOURCE IRP Systems

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[July 15, 2021] Liberty Defense Announces Partnership with N4R B.V. Netherlands

ATLANTA, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd. ("Liberty" or the "Company") (TSXV: SCAN) (OTCQB: LDDFF) (FRANKFURT: LD2), a leading concealed weapons and threat detection solutions company, is pleased to announce that it has partnered with N4R in the Netherlands to expand the Company's presence in Europe for aviation and commercial security applications. N4R B.V. is a consultancy in the Netherlands led by Gunther van Adrichem. Gunther is a seasoned Managing Director and Strategic Advisor within the Aviation Security Industry, highly experienced in technology development, innovation management, and operations for airports, government, and the civil aviation industry. With a demonstrated history of working in the airlines/aviation industry for more than 20 years, Gunther played a guiding role in the development and deployment of some of the most innovative technologies in the European Aviation Industry. Gunther has been involved in numerous projects focused on the innovation of Aviation Security (AVSEC) and creating the first test procedures for certifying airport security scanners. Gunther was instrumental in the introduction and deployment of millimeter wave technologies for passenger screening. Millimeter wave is the basis for Liberty's HEXWAVE product and the Company's newly licensed aviation checkpoint technology. It detects all threats, including metallic and non-metallic. "Along with Mike Lanzaro, Liberty's President and CTO, I have had the privilege of working with Gunther over the past 20 years deploying innovative and state of the art screening technologies for aviation checkpoints. Gunther is a thought leader and certainly well recognized in the security industry," said Bill Frain, CEO of Liberty Defense. "Gunther was instrumental in deploying the first millimeter wave passenger screening technology in Europe. Gunther's vision for next generation security applications is a perfect fit for Liberty as we advance our product portfolio for commercial and aviation applications." Security requirements continue to evolve, especially in a post-Covid world. The ability to process people and passengers effectively, safely, and socially distanced to minimize contact is paramount. There continues to be a need for a layered security approach, and the requiremets are expanding beyond the standard checkpoint.



"I am very excited to be working with the Liberty team as they look to bring their next generation technologies to life," said Gunther van Adrichem. "This partnership provides the customer unparalleled access to our experience in the security industry, and with Liberty's expanded product portfolio, together we will be able to provide curb-to-gate screening for the aviation industry." On Behalf of Liberty Defense

Bill Frain

CEO & Director

About Liberty Defense Liberty Defense (TSXV: SCAN, OTCQB: LDDFF, FRANKFURT: LD2) provides multi-technology security solutions for concealed weapons detection in high volume foot traffic areas and locations requiring enhanced security such as airports, stadiums, schools, and more. Liberty's HEXWAVE product, for which the company has secured an exclusive license from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), as well as a technology transfer agreement for patents related to active 3D radar imaging technology, provides discrete, modular, and scalable protection to provide layered, stand-off detection capability of metallic and non-metallic weapons. Liberty has also recently licensed the millimeter wave-based, High Definition Advanced Imaging Technology (HD-AIT) body scanner and shoe scanner technologies as part of its technology portfolio. Liberty is committed to protecting communities and preserving peace of mind through superior security detection solutions. Learn more: LibertyDefense.com FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

When used in this press release, the words "estimate", "project", "belief", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan", "predict", "may" or "should" and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. Although Liberty believes, in light of the experience of their respective officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate, that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements and information in this press release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the parties can give no assurance that such statements will prove to be correct. Such statements and information reflect the current view of Liberty. There are risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. There are a number of important factors that could cause Liberty's actual results to differ materially from those indicated or implied by forward-looking statements and information. Such factors include, among others: currency fluctuations; limited business history of the parties; disruptions or changes in the credit or security markets; results of operation activities and development of projects; project cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses; and general development, market and industry conditions. The parties undertake no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third parties in respect of their securities or their respective financial or operating results (as applicable). Liberty cautions that the foregoing list of material factors is not exhaustive. When relying on Liberty's forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Liberty has assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraph will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents the expectations of Liberty as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. Liberty does not undertake to update this information at any particular time except as required in accordance with applicable laws. 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 press release. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/liberty-defense-announces-partnership-with-n4r-bv-netherlands-301334499.html SOURCE Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd.

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[July 15, 2021] NGP Expands Energy Transition Team, Hiring Industry Veterans David Colt and Maritza Liaw

NGP today announced that David Colt and Maritza Liaw are joining the firm as Partners, focusing exclusively on energy transition investing through NGP ETP, NGP's energy transition platform. Mr. Colt was previously a Principal with CPP Investments, where he was responsible for developing and executing a late-stage venture and growth equity investment strategy in energy transition. Prior to joining CPP Investments, Mr. Colt was the Vice President of Corporate Development and Finance for ChargePoint, a global leader in electric vehicle charging. Mr. Colt is a graduate of Reed College with a degree in Economics. Ms. Liaw was previously a Partner with the Kleiner Perkins Green Growth Fund, where she invested in businesses in the energy and logistics sectors. Prior to joining Kleiner Perkins, Ms. Liaw developed utility-scale wind energy projects in Montana and Alberta. Ms. Liaw began her career with the Boston Consulting Group. She is a graduate of Stanford University and earned an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School where she was a Baker Scholar. Chris Carter, Managing Partner of NGP, commented, "We are thrilled to welcome David and Maritza to the NGP team. As the global community focuses on solutions to combat climate change, there is an enormous opportunity to invest in and build bsinesses that will have a meaningful impact, while generating attractive returns for investors. David and Maritza are industry veterans who have spent their careers evaluating, advising, and making investments in the energy transition. We believe they will both make powerful contributions to NGP ETP for many years to come."



Philip Deutch, NGP ETP Fund Head and Partner, commented, "At the center of our success investing in the energy transition is our investment team that has a differentiated, proactive and disciplined investment approach. We continue to have success working with our portfolio companies to create significant value for our investors. We know David and Maritza well, and they will strengthen and expand NGP ETP, bringing their own impressive experiences and perspectives to those of our existing team." ABOUT NGP and NGP ETP

Founded in 1988, NGP is a premier private equity firm with over $20 billion of cumulative equity commitments organized to make strategic investments in the energy sector. NGP's 33-year history gives it unique insight into the drivers of value creation in all facets of the energy industry. NGP ETP, NGP's energy transition platform, provides growth equity to compelling companies focused on today's energy transition. NGP ETP targets growth equity investments in companies that drive or enable the growth of renewable energy, the electrification of our economy or the efficient use of energy and resources. For more information visit www.ngpenergycapital.com. For information: www.ngpenergycapital.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005287/en/

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Options Announces Access to Cboe Europe Derivatives

Options, the leading provider of cloud-enabled managed services to the global capital markets, today announced it will facilitate access to Cboe Europe Derivatives, a new Amsterdam-based equity derivatives exchange being launched by Cboe later this year. This access will be available to clients in addition to Options' existing connectivity to Cboe's US and European equities markets.

By connecting to Cboe Europe, one of the largest and truly pan-European stock exchange operators, Options will be able to provide its clients with ultra-low latency access to both market data and order routing services via Cboe's data centres in Equinix's (News - Alert) LD3 and LD4 campuses. The extension of this connectivity to Cboe Europe Derivatives, which is set to launch on Monday, 6th September 2021, subject to regulatory approval, solidifies Options' commitment to providing its clients with the fastest, most holistic access in the market.

Micah Kroeze, Senior Vice President, Product Management said, "We are delighted to facilitate access to trading and market data from Cboe Europe Derivatives. This is the latest development in Options' relationship with Cboe, following our 2020 announcement of registered Vendor status to Cboe's European equities market and pre-existing partnership to provide connectivity to Cboe's US Equities markets across the industry. This additional connectivity will provide our clients with best-in-class access to a modern, vibrant, pan-European equity derivatives exchange which will prioritise on-screen liquidity."

Stephen Dorrian, Senior Director, Head of European Market Data, Cboe Europe, said: "We're pleased to be extending our connectivity relationship with Options. Its services are used by many of our trading participants, and we are excited to be able to use them to facilitate access to Cboe Europe Derivatives and the considerable benefits it will bring to Europe's derivatives market."

Today's news comes as the latest in a series of strategic developments for Options, including the recent acquisition of Fixnetix from DXC Technology, appointment of Jake Beeman as Chief Strategy Officer, achievement of SOC Compliance for a decade and a win in the "Best Managed Services Solution for Market Data" category at the recent TradingTech Insights USA Awards.







About Options (www.options-it.com):

Options Technology is the No. 1 provider of IT infrastructure to global Capital Markets firms, supporting their operations and ecosystems.

Founded in 1993, the firm began life as a hedge fund technology services provider. Today, the company provides high-performance managed trading infrastructure and cloud-enabled managed services to over 200 firms globally, providing an agile, scalable platform in an Investment Bank-grade Cybersecurity wrapper.

Options clients include the leading global investment banks, hedge funds, funds of funds, proprietary trading firms, market makers, broker/dealers, private equity houses and exchanges. With offices in 8 key cities; New York, Toronto, Chicago, London, Belfast, Hong Kong, Singapore and New Zealand, Options are well placed to service their customers both on-site and remotely.

In 2019, Options secured a significant growth investment from Abry Partners, a Boston-based sector-focused private equity firm. This investment has enabled Options to considerably accelerate its growth strategy to invest further in its technology platform and expand its reach in key financial centres globally.

Options has been named among the UK's leading growth companies in the 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018 and 2017 Sunday Times HSBC International Track 200 league table.

For more on Options, please visit www.options-it.com, follow us on Twitter at @Options_IT and visit our LinkedIn page.

About Abry Partners (www.abry.com)

Abry is one of the most experienced and successful sector-focused private equity investment firms in North America. Since its founding in 1989, the firm has completed over $82 billion of leveraged transactions and other private equity or preferred equity placements. Currently, the firm manages over $5.0 billion of capital across their active funds.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005749/en/
[July 15, 2021] Phi Finney McDonald Announces Settlement Reached in GetSwift Class Action

A conditional settlement agreement has been reached in the class action against GetSwift Limited (GetSwift) and Mr Joel Macdonald (Respondents) in the Federal Court of Australia Proceeding NSD580 of 2018. The settlement agreement was entered into on 13 July 2021 between the Representative Applicant, Mr Raffaele Webb, GetSwift, Mr Macdonald and GetSwift's parent company, GetSwift Technologies Limited ( GTL (News - Alert)), without any admission of liability by the Respondents. In 2020, GetSwift Limited ceased trading on the Australian Securities Exchange following shareholder and Federal Court approval of a restructure under which GTL acquired all GetSwift shares. GTL is listed on the Canadian NEO stock exchange. The settlement agreement is conditional upon the parties entering into a comprehensive deed of settlement, as well as approval of the settlement terms by the Federal Court (as required n accordance with section 33V of the Federal Court Act 1976 (Cth)).



Under the proposed settlement structure, the Respondents and GTL will make a modest upfront payment into the settlement pool. Further sums will be contributed as a capped percentage of any capital raisings (or a capped percentage of company revenue as a backstop if no or limited funds are raised) over a 3-year period. Mr Tim Finney, Director of Phi Finney McDonald, said, "The settlement structure adopts a creative approach that has regard to GTL's and the Respondents' financial position, while seeking to ensure that group members in the class action are well-placed to benefit from any recovery in the business's fortunes over the next three years.

This settlement avoids further legal costs on both sides and allows GTL to focus on recapitalising and growing its business, with group members to benefit from any success. In the circumstances, we consider the proposed settlement to be in the best interests of GTL, its investors, and group members in the class action." Further information will be provided in due course including in relation to the Federal Court settlement approval process. If you have any questions in the interim, please contact Phi Finney McDonald at classactions@phifinneymcdonald.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005483/en/

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[July 15, 2021] PORTLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE TRANSFORMS WITH D2L SUPPORT

Kitchener, Waterloo, July 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global learning technology leader D2L partnered with longtime client Portland Community College (PCC) to help them thrive during the shift to remote learning in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. PCC is the largest institution of higher education in Oregon, enrolling more than 60,000 full and part-time students annually. The college includes the states largest city, Portland  the most rapidly growing population in the state. PCC aims to support students by focusing on equitable access, economic development and sustainability, diversity, equity and inclusion.



Like many education institutions, the college developed a need for increased remote learning support in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Being a D2L client since 2010, PCC was well prepared for the shift to remote learning. Faculty and staff focused their attention supporting programs and instructors that had previously not been online.



One example of the shift was the High School Equivalency Program (HEP), which is a federal grant-funded program that helps migrant and seasonal farmworkers earn their high school equivalency diploma. The classes are in Spanish and include critical wrap-around student services. To support the program, PCC enabled Brightspaces Latin American Spanish localization, translated orientation materials into Spanish, and used Brightspaces training videos that can be provided in Spanish. Additional training for faculty helped instructors put content and practice assessments online. Emergency technology grants put equipment into students hands. Lastly, the flexibility from faculty and students all made it possible for the program to continue in remote operations and meet the obligations of the grant. "Brightspace allowed HEP students to virtually access additional services in support of the class and individual educational needs and objectives, said Beto Espindola, HEP Director at PCC. We would not have been able to enrich the student experience without D2L's flexibility and support." Building off of the excitement andenergy generated by our annual Fusion conference, were celebrating our customers and the ways in which they are changing the world, says April Oman, Senior Vice President, Customer Engagement at D2L. It has been our mission from the beginning at D2L to break down educational barriers, and thats just what were doing through our partnership with Portland Community College. We are proud to continue to support PCC as they harnessed the challenges of the pandemic and used it to their advantage to build even more resiliency in their institution."



ABOUT PORTLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to more than 60,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, eight education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.

Visit PCC news on the web at http://news.pcc.edu/ ABOUT D2L BRIGHTSPACE D2L Brightspace is a cloud-based learning platform built for people who care deeply about student success and helping to prepare them for what comes next.



It gives faculty across your institution tools theyre going to love, makes it easy to support exceptional student experiences in the classroom or fully online. D2L Brightspace is designed in close collaboration with clients around the world  building a pedagogically rich set of features to improve engagement, retention and learning outcomes. It also makes it easier to do assessment and give feedback.



D2L Brightspace is worry-free with 99.99% reliability. Its highly accessible and looks beautiful on any mobile device, making it easier for educators to reach every learner.



D2L Brightspace has won multiple industry awards, including the #1 LMS Technology for next-generation online teaching and learning. To learn more, visit D2L for Higher Education. ABOUT D2L D2L is transforming the way the world learns  helping learners of all ages achieve more than they dreamed possible. Working closely with clients all over the world, D2L is supporting millions of people learning online and in person. Our more than 950 global employees are dedicated to making the best learning products to leave the world better than where they found it. Learn more about D2L for K-12, higher education and businesses at www.D2L.com. D2L MEDIA CONTACT Christine DAngela

Director, External Strategic Communications, D2L Corporation

pr@D2L.com Twitter: @D2L  2021 D2L Corporation. The D2L family of companies includes D2L Corporation, D2L Ltd, D2L Australia Pty Ltd, D2L Europe Ltd, D2L Asia Pte Ltd, and D2L Brasil Solucoes de Tecnologia para Educacao Ltda. All D2L marks are trademarks of D2L Corporation. Please visit D2L.com/trademarks for a list of D2L marks.



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[July 15, 2021] Prado Group Announces Initial Closing of Prado Alpha Fund at $200 Million

The Prado Group, a privately held real estate investment and development company, today announced the first $200 million closing of its Prado Alpha Fund. The Fund will raise up to $250 million from strategic investors for co-investment with best-in-class institutional joint venture partners. The Alpha Fund will make direct GP investments, GP co-investments, and direct investments. The Alpha Fund's founding co-investors include key strategic private investors from San Francisco, Silicon Valley, Seattle, Los Angeles, Texas, and New York. The Fund is targeting core-plus, value-add, and opportunity real estate in high-growth, knowledge-centric regions dominated by innovation ecosystems. The Fund's investments will include primarily multi-family housing, retail and office. "Over the last two decades, Prado Group has achieved very strong returns by aligning with forward-looking and connected partners while executing deep value-add strategies in dynamic high growth, high barrier markets," said Zach Felson, Co-Chief-Investment Officer and Head of Acquisitions at Prado Group. "The data shows that the innovation regions, their world-class educational institutions, powerful ventur capital infrastructure, and dynamic work-play environments will continue to attract the best and brightest companies, ambitious career builders, and financial change-makers who transform great ideas into enduring real estate demand."



"Geolo Capital is proud to be one of Prado Group's anchor partners alongside other key strategic investors who are driving much of the ideation and growth in the innovation regions. We look forward to supporting Prado's winning strategy for the Alpha Fund and creating enduring partnerships with top institutional real estate investors," said John Pritzker, Founding Partner of Geolo Capital. The Prado Group is actively seeking new direct and co-GP opportunities within these innovative regions. For investment opportunities and submissions, please contact zfelson@pradogroup.com. For more about Prado Alpha Fund and Prado Group, visit PradoGroup.com.

About Prado Group Prado Group is a privately held real estate development and investment management company with a primary focus on residential, retail, office, and mixed-use properties. To date, Prado Group has made over 80 investments which includes a development pipeline totaling $3.75 billion with $1.4 billion in realized investments. The company seeks in-fill, supply-constrained, innovation markets with high barriers to entry primarily in the Western Region. Prado Group's goal is Positive EvolutionTM: to enhance the communities we work in by creating high-quality, sustainable environments for people to live, work, shop, and relax. In each of our projects, our team seeks to create quality environments that will serve and inspire future generations. Prado Group pursues asset strategies that create sustainable value through asset management, development, repositioning, and property enhancement. For more, visit PradoGroup.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005777/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Preston Hollow Capital Completes Financing for Walnut Creek Development

Preston Hollow Capital, an independent specialty municipal finance company supporting local communities through infrastructure financing, today announced the successful closing of a $4 million financing to fund infrastructure improvements at Walnut Creek development -- an 868-acre master-planned residential community located in Lancaster County, South Carolina. The development consists of four major phases that, upon completion, is expected to include approximately 2,054 residential units, approximately 300 acres of common open space, and approximately 100,000 square feet of commercial development.



Proceeds from the financing will help construct public improvements as part of the larger Walnut Creek development, including the construction of public roadways, storm drainage, and other infrastructure needs as part of the development. "Consistent with our mission of providing financing to meet the growing infrastructure needs of communities across the country, we believe our work on behalf of Walnut Creek will advance that community's development efforts and pave the way for a successful, new community," remarked Preston Hollow Managing Director Ramiro Albarran. "We are grateful for the spirit of partnership that has governed our relationship with Walnut Creek and look forward to the project's continued advancement."

About Preston Hollow Capital Preston Hollow Capital provides specialized impact financing solutions for projects of significant social and economic importance to local communities in the United States. As a team, we bring a decades-long track record of helping communities achieve their financial, sustainability and community impact goals. We do so through a unique partnership model, rigorous and disciplined credit underwriting and creative investment structuring built around delivering speed, certainty, and flexibility to our borrowers. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005127/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Seoul Robotics Raises $12M in Bridge Round Investment from Korean Government

ANN ARBOR, Mich. , July 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Seoul Robotics , a 3D computer vision company that builds intelligent robotic perception systems using AI and machine learning, has been selected as an Innovative Icon startup to receive a $12M investment from the Korean government. The Korea Credit Guarantee Fund conducted a rigorous, four-month analysis of more than 200 companies and ultimately selected Seoul Robotics, along with five other companies, based on its proven potential to reach unicorn status.

Innovation Icon is a global scale-up program for Korean startups with high potential for growth. The investment further demonstrates the governments trust in Seoul Robotics, one of the country's most promising startups. The $12M investment is in addition to previous funding from the Korean government including a $3M grant for autonomous vehicle deployment. The company also secured a $6M seed round in December of 2019. Earlier this year, Seoul Robotics made its formal debut in the US market with the announcement of the companys first commercial product, Discovery. This all-in-one sensor and software platform further expands access, reduces the cost, and simplifies the implementation of LiDAR-based solutions in applications ranging from smart city, smart factory and smart home to logistics, mobility, robotics and more. Seoul Robotics continues to build momentum through partnerships with top-tier organizations worldwide, including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Qualcomm, University of Michigan, Chattanooga Department of Transportation, Korea Department of Transportation, Emart, and many others. This bridge round will provide debt financing that enables Seoul Robotics to further expand its global prsence and continue democratizing LiDAR through its sensor agnostic perception software. Companies previously selected in the Innovative Icon Program have achieved IPO, 89.5% sales growth, 64% employment growth and $223M in follow-up investment.



The 3D perception market, backed by LiDAR and 3D sensors, continues to see considerable growth, and were breaking down the barriers to entry to bring this technology to applications across a wide array of industries, said HanBin Lee, CEO of Seoul Robotics. SENSR is the worlds most advanced perception software for 3D sensors and the most widely used platform available. This investment will propel our ability to bring the power of 3D perception to the masses to ultimately foster a more intelligent and safe world. Seoul Robotics provides OEMs, system integrators, and government agencies around the world with access to LiDAR and 3D sensor solutions through its proprietary perception software platform, SENSR . The sensor-agnostic software uses machine learning to analyze and understand 3D data with extreme accuracy to support a range of functions from basic tracking and monitoring to autonomous mobility. Prior to the companys founding in 2017, there was no bridge between LiDAR manufacturers and industries outside the automotive market that could benefit from the insights provided by 3D data.

To learn more about Seoul Robotics, please visit https://www.seoulrobotics.org/ . About Seoul Robotics

Seoul Robotics is a 3D computer vision company building a perception platform that uses AI and machine learning to power the future of mobility, robotics, and smart cities. Founded in 2017, Seoul Robotics has partnered with OEMs, system integrators, and government agencies around the world to diversify the use of 3D sensors and data. The company has developed its own proprietary software, which is compatible with nearly all LiDAR and 3D sensors, to increase accuracy, efficiency and ensure safety across a range of industries and applications. Seoul Robotics has offices in Seoul, Silicon Valley, Munich, and Detroit and is backed by leading global financial institutions. For more information, visit http://www.seoulrobotics.org/ . Media Contact

Ann Gargiulo

ann.gargiulo@seoulrobotics.org LaunchSquad for Seoul Robotics

seoulrobotics@launchsquad.com



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[July 15, 2021] The Silver Nanoparticles Market is projected to surpass $5.5 billion by 2027, says Global Market Insights Inc.

SELBYVILLE, Del., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Based on a Global Market Insights Inc. report, the global Silver Nanoparticles Market was estimated at $2 billion in 2020 and is slated to exceed $5.5 billion by 2027, registering a CAGR of 14.5% from 2021 to 2027. The report provides a thorough analysis of the main investment avenues, major winning strategies, drivers and opportunities, wavering industry trends, market estimations as well as size and competitive scenarios. The product demand from food & beverage applications surpassed USD 200 million in 2020 and should further grow owing to the effectiveness of silver nanoparticles in maintaining food freshness and as an antibacterial deodorant. Request Sample Report: https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/1118 The global silver nanoparticles market from healthcare & life science applications should surpass USD 2 billion by 2027. These products offer various benefits such as efficient antimicrobial action and low toxicity compared to conventional bactericides, boosting product incorporation in auto-sanitizing medical devices. Growing consumer awareness of the importance of health along with rising spending on healthcare owing to increasing disposable incomes is likely to trigger market growth. The silver nanoparticles market from textile applications is likely to register over 7.3% gains in the predicted period. These products are extensively used as sustainable coloring agents in the textile sector on account of their high color stability. The rising spending capacity, evolving lifestyle patterns, and expansion of the fashionable apparel industry should accelerate silver nanoparticles market growh.



Request customization of this report: https://www.gminsights.com/roc/1118 Europe surpassed USD 560 million in 2020 and should witness healthy growth over the forecast period. The presence of a growing elderly population segment in the region has significantly increased the demand for health services. The healthcare sector is likely to witness the adoption of innovative technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), virtual reality, mobile healthcare, and the Internet of Things (IoT), offering ample growth opportunities for silver nanoparticles. On the other hand, Latin America should surpass USD 145 million by 2027 owing to the expansion of the fashion retail sector, driving textile industry growth.

Key industry participants in the silver nanoparticles industry are BASF, Sigma Aldrich, Nanocs, Advanced Nano Products, NanoHorizons, Inc., and American Elements. Industry players are focused on product development, merger & acquisition, strategic partnership & joint venture, and R&D investment strategies over the long run. Related Reports: Pressure Sensitive Adhesives Market Strategies and Revenue Impact Analysis - 2026 Titanium Dioxide Market Strategies and Revenue Impact Analysis - 2026 Antimicrobial Coatings Market Future Business Strategies and Revenue Impact Analysis - 2026 About Global Market Insights Inc. Global Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider. Offering syndicated and custom research reports, growth consulting, and business intelligence services, Global Market Insights, Inc. aims to help clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data that aid in strategic decision making. GMIPulse, our business analytics platform offers an online, interactive option of exploring our proprietary industry research data in an easy-to-use and dynamic manner. Clients get to explore market intelligence across 11 top-level categories and hundreds of industry segments within them, covering regional, company level, and cross-sectional statistics that make our offering a stand-out for decision-makers. Related Images silver-nanoparticles-market.jpg

Silver Nanoparticles Market Outlook - 2027 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-silver-nanoparticles-market-is-projected-to-surpass-5-5-billion-by-2027--says-global-market-insights-inc-301333754.html SOURCE Global Market Insights Inc.

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[July 15, 2021] Tyler Technologies Extends Contract for Digital Government and Payment Solutions in the State of Oregon

Tyler Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: TYL) today announced that the state of Oregon has signed a multi-year contract extension for Tyler's digital government and payments services. The four-year agreement extends the existing 10-year relationship between Oregon's E-Government Program and Tyler's new subsidiary, NIC (News - Alert) . "NIC Oregon has been a vital partner with the state of Oregon as we work to make our websites and programs accessible and usable for the people of our great state," said Thomas Fuller, chair of the Oregon Electronic Portal Advisory Board and Communications Manager for the Oregon Department of Transportation. "We are very pleased that this strategic relationship will continue." Under the contract, NIC will continue to help the state: Discover users' needs and preferences of Oregon.gov and the state's digital government services;

Support the continued updating of state websites;

Support increased accessibility, equitability, and readability of state websites and applications;

Work with agencies to create easy-to-understand applications and payment processes;

ork with agencies to continue moving forms and services online; and

Increase service opportunities, including new lines of services.



In 2020 alone, NIC provided 295 digital government services for the state of Oregon, securely processing $1.43 billion from more than 4 million online transactions. Additionally, NIC securely hosts the state's official website, Oregon.gov, which received nearly 233 million page views across over 100 state agencies last year.

About Tyler Technologies (News - Alert) and NIC Acquired by Tyler Technologies (NYSE: TYL) on April 21, 2021, NIC is a leader in digital government solutions and payments, partnering with government to deliver user-friendly digital services that make it easier and more efficient to interact with government. NIC and Tyler are united in their mission to empower public sector entities to operate more efficiently and connect more transparently with their constituents and with each other. Tyler has more than 27,000 successful installations across more than 11,000 sites, with clients in all 50 states, Canada, the Caribbean, Australia, and other international locations. Tyler has been named to Government Technology's GovTech 100 list five times and has been recognized three times on Forbes' "Most Innovative Growth Companies" list. More information about Tyler Technologies, an S&P 500 company headquartered in Plano, Texas, can be found at tylertech.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005183/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust COVID-19 Response Grants to Help 26 Performing Arts Organizations Move Forward

Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust awarded more than $2 million (June 2021) to 26 performing arts organizations. The grants will help strengthen performing arts organizations' re-emergence following severe disruption caused by the pandemic and provide vitally important access. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005904/en/ Greasepaint youth actors perform via livestream in the radio play The Canterville Ghost; the play, based on a story by Oscar Wilde, was also directed by youth. (Photo: Business Wire) Trust founder Virginia Galvin Piper believed arts and culture to be critically important for community health and vitality. As arts and culture organizations begin to reimagine their futures beyond COVID-19, the Trust felt compelled to award grants to performing arts organizations and intentionally awarded grants to some organizations that serve youth/underserved youth and/or have Black, Indigenous, or People of Color-centered missions to help strengthen access to performing arts and culturally specific art forms. At Piper Trust's recent Board meeting, Trustees reflected on the virtues of Virginia Galvin Piper. Trustee Laura Grafman shared that over the life of the Trust, Trustees have never lost sight of the promise to Virginia to be "careful, creative, and compassionate" stewards of the philanthropic funds that Mrs. Piper graciously designated for Maricopa County nonprofits. "We are focused on frequent conversations with our nonprofit partners to hear how their organizations, staffs, and the clients they serve are doing as we move into more encouraging times," said Mary Jane Rynd, president and CEO of Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust. "Our Trustees remain on the pulse of how the pandemic is specifically affecting the various sectors within the nonprofit community and what we all need to do as we rebuild and reestablish." Since spring 2020 when the pandemic began, the Trust has awarded $31,458,000 in COVID response/related grants alone. Piper Trust supported Maricopa County nonprofits with these unrestricted grants giving the organizations discretion and flexibility on the use of the funds. For many arts and culture organizations, that meant finding new ways to contribute to community health. "The pandemic has severely compromised the missions of arts organizations," said Suzanne Wilson, president and CEO of The Phoenix Symphony. "There is a shared value when attending a live performance-art has the ability to heal and unify people," Wilson said. Despite the hardships and furloughs musicians have faced, the Symphony continued its tradition of performing in the community and meeting people where they are for an artistic experience. They set up at hospitals to play for healthcare workers during shift changes and at food banks while people access services. Through the pandemic, Greasepaint Youtheatre creatively found ways to connect with youth actors who thrive on human contact. "I was extremely worried about our theatre kids being stuck behind screens for everything," said Maureen Dias-Watson, artistic director at Greasepaint Youtheatre. "We built an outdoor stage and produced 12 full-length plays with small casts and performed to audiences of 40 masked guests in socially-distanced seating. The productions were a life line-for our student actors, the professional technical artists we were able to pay, and for our community to come together and enjoy something beautiful, funny, or poignant during the midst of a horrible year. It felt like hope each time we put on a show." From December 2020 through June 2021, Piper Trust awarded $22,239,750 in grants. TRUST-INITIATED GRANT AWARDS DUE TO COVID-19 CRISIS-TOTAL: $7,149,250 Arts and Culture Organizations-Total: $2,066,250 Organizations listed below with youth/underserved youth, and/or Black, Indigenous, People of Color-centered missions received additional funds in their grant awards to support strengthening access to performing arts for youth and to culturally specific art forms.







Arizona Musicfest ($110,000) Jazz in Arizona, Inc. ($45,000) Arizona Opera ($130,000) Mesa Arts Center Foundation ($45,000) Arizona Theatre Company ($130,000) Musical Theatre of Anthem ($37,500) Ballet Arizona ($130,000) Phoenix Boys Choir ($93,750) Black Theatre Troupe, Inc. ($67,500) Phoenix Chamber Music Society ($30,000) Chandler Cultural Foundation ($90,000) Phoenix Chorale ($30,000) Childsplay, Inc. ($137,500) Phoenix Girls Chorus, Inc. ($56,250) Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts ($75,000) Phoenix Theatre ($130,000) East Valley Children's Theatre ($37,500) Scottsdale Arts ($137,500) Fountain Hills Theatre, Inc. ($45,000) Southwest Shakespeare Company ($45,000) Greasepaint Youtheatre ($37,500) The Phoenix Symphony ($137,500) Herberger Theater Center ($90,000) Theater Works ($75,000) iTheatre Collaborative ($30,000) Valley Youth Theatre ($93,750)

Children/Older Adults/Education/Healthcare and Medical Research/Religious-Total: $5,083,000 Organizations listed below received grants based on their roles ensuring access to basic needs during the pandemic; organizations with an * received early release and/or repurposed ATLAS funds. About Care, Inc. ($25,000) Maggie's Place ($143,000)* Area Agency on Aging, Region One, Inc. ($50,000) Mercy Housing Southwest ($50,000) Association for Supportive Child Care ($556,000)* Neighbors Who Care, Inc. ($75,000)* Aster Aging, Inc. ($40,000) Northwest Valley Connect ($25,000) AZCEND ($50,000) NourishPHX ($355,000)* Beatitudes Campus ($50,000) One Arizona ($100,000) Benevilla ($50,000) one n ten ($73,000)* Chicanos Por La Causa ($50,000) Open Hearts ($330,000)* Chicanos Por La Causa/Keogh Health Connection ($63,000)* Tanner Community Development Corporation ($30,000) Duet Partners in Health & Aging ($40,000) Technical Assistance Partnership of Arizona ($75,000) Foundation for Senior Living ($50,000) Tempe Community Action Agency, Inc. ($50,000) Gabriel's Angels ($52,000)* The Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix ($2,500,000) Junior Achievement of Arizona, Inc. ($201,000)* NON-RELATED TO COVID-19 GRANTS-TOTAL: $15,090,500 Prior to the need for COVID-related support, Piper Trust had responsive and Trust-initiated grantmaking underway. The following organizations received grants for non-COVID related work. Responsive Grantmaking: grants that support nonprofit programs, capital campaigns, or capital projects that fit Trust core funding areas. Adelante Healthcare: $650,000 grant to support renovation of a relocated West Phoenix clinic.

Center for the Future of Arizona: $100,000 grant supporting analysis and communications for The Gallup Arizona Project.

Arizona Autism United: $265,000 grant to expand access to services and coordinated care for children.

Valley of the Sun YMCA: $600,000 grant to improve the infrastructure and special population access to Camp Sky-Y. Trust-Initiated Grantmaking: grants that are unique, often long-term investments, and designed for broad impact. Some of the awarded grants listed below are for Piper Trust capacity-building grants related to the Trust's AGILE programs or the Good Governance Fund. Creighton University: $10 million grant to establish an endowed chair position and a fellowship in health disparities at the Virginia G. Piper Medical Clinic at Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

HonorHealth Foundation: $3 million grant to support multidisciplinary care clinics at the Neuroscience Institute.

Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, Inc.: $120,000 grant to support Maricopa County nonprofits' participation in the Listen4Good cohort.

SMU Data Arts: $108,000 grant to support Cultural Data Profile arts and culture data tools and related trainings in Maricopa County. AGILE grantees are: Arizona State University Arts Museum ($7,500); Ballet Arizona ($10,000); and, Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation ($10,000). Good Governance Fund grantees, each receiving grants of $15,000, are: Arizona Opera, AZCEND, Family Promise-Greater Phoenix, Friendly House, Inc., Herberger Theater Center, ICAN, New Pathways for Youth, and Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center. Immediate Community-Need Grantmaking: Trust-initiated grants that respond to a time-sensitive challenge. Due to extreme heat and its implications on health, the following organizations were awarded $25,000 each to support emergency heat relief efforts: Arizona Faith Network, Human Services Campus, Inc., Society of St. Vincent de Paul, and The Salvation Army. About Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust: Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust supports organizations that enrich health, well-being, and opportunity for the people of Maricopa County, Arizona. Since it began awarding grants in 2000, Piper Trust has invested more than $517 million in local nonprofits and programs. Piper Trust grantmaking areas are healthcare and medical research, children, older adults, arts and culture, education, and religious organizations. For more information, visit pipertrust.org | @PiperTrust | Facebook. For Piper Trust's Annual Financial Report: Fiscal Year Ending March 2020, visit FY 2020. Learn more about local arts and culture from Hear Arizona podcasts-State of the Arts, produced by KJZZ public radio station and reporter Anthony Wallace. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005904/en/

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[July 15, 2021] ZEDEDA Joins Initiative to Deliver Applications to the Distributed Edge with Google Cloud and Anthos

The energy industry is undergoing rapid evolution as it adjusts to sweeping changes in everything from aging infrastructure to an imbalance in traditional ways consumers use and produce energy. To address this complex equation, ZEDEDA, the leader in orchestration for the distributed edge, today announces significant advances in three key areas-partnerships, industry consortiums and a developer program-that position open collaboration as a key enabler for the industrial market, including companies looking to address the macro trends in the energy space. ZEDEDA will provide its zero-trust, cloud-based orchestration solution for distributed edge computing to help Google Cloud customers securely scale deployments of any edge application, including AI/ML, on choice of hardware. This is in response to the growth of cloud infrastructure in industrial markets for centralized data storage and management, cross-facility analytics and visibility, and hyperscale compute capabilities to augment workloads deployed at the edge. Together with joint edge application partners like Dianomic, customers will be able to drive new efficiencies through insights derived from edge environments. While the solution is horizontal in nature, the partnership is placing an initial focus on the energy space with target edge assets, including wind turbines, solar farms, and more. "We see a number of edge use cases for multiple industries, including energy, that can be addressed with this Google Cloud partnership," said Said Ouissal, ZEDEDA founder and CEO. "Our zero-touch provisioning and simplified lifecycle management enable businesses to start realizing business value with Google Cloud together with choice of edge hardware and applications." "As high-speed connectivity grows, organizations with presences at the network edge stand to benefit from low-latency access to business applications and cloud capabilities that can help modernize business processes, manage data, and more," said Tanuj Raja, Global Head, Strategic Partnerships at Google Cloud. "We're excited that ZEDEDA will make its edge orchestration capabilities available with Google Cloud, helping enable greater access to these applications and capabilities for customers across industries." In addition to its recent partnership with Agora, ZEDEDA has added additional partnerships to support energy customers facing key challenges such as digitizing legacy infrastructure, remotely monitoring critical assets, and balancing the grid with unpredictable renewable energy sources. Those partnerships announced today include: Juniper Networks: a joint offering for secure-edge computing with Juniper's Session Smart Router and the vSRX Virtual Firewall secure networking capabilities on top of ZEDEDA's zero-trust edge orchestration foundation. Together, ZEDEDA and Juniper provide customers with the simplicity of cloud orchestration and the flexibility of either backhauling data to the cloud or keeping it on-prem.

Dianomic: an edge application platform for Industrial IoT use cases. ZEDEDA's edge orhestration solution simplifies secure deployment of Dianomic's FogLAMP platform and management of the underlying hardware.

IOTA Foundation: a key collaborator for Project Alvarium, focused on facilitating trust in interconnected ecosystems through its feeless Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT). IOTA is leading a number of decentralized, innovative projects in the energy space.



News - Alert) . "Combining our broad networking experience, including software-defined capabilities with the Juniper Session Smart Router and the vSRX Virtual Firewall with ZEDEDA's Zero Trust architecture, provides customers with a robust security foundation for any mission-critical use cases within the energy vertical and beyond." "Together, Dianomic, ZEDEDA and Google deliver a complete Industry 4.0 edge stack built on an open-source foundation," said Tom Arthur, CEO at Dianomic. "The energy industry faces new challenges as its generation and storage systems become massively distributed. Combining Dianomic's FogLAMP for edge application development and data acquisition with ZEDEDA's secure orchestration solution and Google's state-of-the-art ML and cloud services delivers a robust and flexible foundation for edge computing challenges in industrial use cases."

ZEDEDA is also increasing focus with Advantech as a strategic hardware partner for the energy space due to its broad portfolio of edge computing offerings, including models with C1/D2 certification for critical environments and new NVIDIA (News - Alert) Jetson-enabled boxes to power edge AI. "We are always looking for new and innovative ways to make edge computing solutions easier, more efficient, and more secure for customers in an industry that is seeing tremendous change," said Jeff Brown, Sr. Sales Director for Advantech's (News - Alert) Industrial IoT Group. "Working with strategic, domain-focused partners such as ZEDEDA and Dianomic allows us to do just that. Advantech has one of the broadest hardware portfolios in the market, and our expansive Class 1, Division 2 product line allows for reliable, rugged solutions in remote and hazardous locations. We are thrilled to be a part of this ground-breaking group that's putting digital transformation into the hands of the energy industry." Collaboration with PVHardware ZEDEDA continues to make great progress with energy customers, recently closing a win with PVHardware. The company is using ZEDEDA's orchestration solution to deploy and manage edge hardware and applications that aid in tracking the sun to maximize power generation. "As we looked to leverage edge computing to help maximize power generation, we needed a solution to securely scale deployments in solar plants, including the ability to remotely manage the overall deployment lifecycle," said Ivan Arkitpoff, CTO at PVHardware, "ZEDEDA provided us with a solution that makes it easy to deploy hardware and applications in the field and perform fail-proof updates from the cloud without having to send a technician out to the plant." ZEDEDA Joins Industry Consortium Groups LF Energy, OSDU and Project Alvarium The emerging trends that face the energy industry are so wide-ranging that they require industry collaboration to address. ZEDEDA has joined several industry consortiums to drive standards via open source: LF Energy, a Linux Foundation (News - Alert) project, is seeking to accelerate the energy transition of the world's power and transportation systems through open-source technology. As a member, ZEDEDA will work with the LF Energy community to integrate EVE-OS into its reference architecture.

The OSDU Forum, part of the Open Group and focused on developing an open, standards-based foundation to accelerate innovation in the energy space. ZEDEDA and Dianomic are assisting in building a proof-of-concept for OSDU's edge computing reference architecture leveraging EVE-OS and Fledge from LF Edge, with more open-source efforts to be integrated over time.

Project Alvarium, an emerging project within the Linux Foundation, is focused on enabling data confidence through the concept of trust fabrics. ZEDEDA is collaborating with Dell (News - Alert) , the IOTA Foundation, Intel and other industry leaders to formally launch the project, with energy being an initial focus vertical. "ZEDEDA's capabilities enable zero-touch deployments of IOTA and Project Alvarium, creating scalable connective fabrics at the edge," said Mat Yarger, Head of Smart Mobility at the IOTA Foundation. "This can enable a peer-to-peer utility of data in the energy sector, which has massive implications to address critical problems with grid management and oversight. It will also allow new business models around electric vehicles and smart grids to thrive, as well as the realization of new asset structures. All with trust being ingrained in how these systems operate." To learn more about how ZEDEDA is partnering with Google Cloud and Dianomic on edge solutions, register for ZEDEDA Transform 2021 on August 18-19. This free online event brings together experts from across the edge computing and IoT landscape to discuss today's trends, challenges and opportunities. About ZEDEDA ZEDEDA, the leader in orchestration for the distributed edge, delivers visibility, control and security for edge computing deployments. ZEDEDA enables customers the freedom of deploying and managing any app on any hardware? ?at scale? ?and connecting to any cloud or on-premises systems. Distributed edge solutions require a diverse mix of technologies and domain expertise, and ZEDEDA provides customers with an open, vendor-agnostic orchestration framework that breaks down silos and provides the needed agility and futureproofing as they evolve their connected operations. Customers can now seamlessly orchestrate intelligent applications at the distributed edge to gain access to critical insights, make real-time decisions and maximize operational efficiency. ZEDEDA is a venture-backed Silicon Valley company, headquartered in San Jose, CA, with teams based in Bangalore and Pune, India and Berlin, Germany. For more information, contact info@zededa.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005165/en/

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[July 14, 2021] Extreme Tech Challenge Announces 2021 Special Awards Winners Headed to Global Finals

Extreme Tech Challenge (XTC), the world's largest startup competition for purpose-driven tech innovation, announced today four Special Awards Winners selected to compete at the XTC 2021 Global Finals presented by TechCrunch on July 22, 2021. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210714005941/en/ Extreme Tech Challenge 2021 Special Awards Winners (Graphic: Business Wire) Tech startups, venture capitalists, corporate innovation executives, policymakers, philanthropists, researchers, and academia around the world are invited to register now for this free event to the public to be held virtually on July 22. 80 startup finalists competed across seven fields including Agtech & Foodtech; Cleantech & Energy; Edtech; Enabling Tech; Fintech; Healthtech; and Mobility & Smart Cities. In addition to the seven Category Winners announced, four Special Awards Winners were chosen because their innovations highlight the topical tech trends, promote diversity, and lign with current events.



The Special Award Winners are: Female Founder Award: The Live Green Co. is building a proprietary technology platform, Charaka, to replace not only the animal but also the synthetic and ultra-processed ingredients in food products with 100% natural, functional and sustainable plant alternatives at ten times R&D speed and savings. Its vision is to reimagine all the food products on supermarket shelves at scale using Charaka, to disrupt the way the world eats. COVID-19 Innovation Award: Sunfox is a medtech R&D company building smartphone-based portable, minimalistic and affordable cardiac diagnostic tools with cloud-enabled analytics. Its flagship product is the world's smartest ICU monitor that allows physicians to manage patients remotely in scale. In COVID times, this device has helped to save lives in India. Ethical AI Award: Vitalk leverages AI-powered chatbots to make mental healthcare more accessible in Latin America. Vitalk currently works with employers and insurance companies in Brazil and is set to expand to other countries next year. People's Choice Award: PathGen Diagnostik Teknologi disrupts the molecular diagnostics market for cancer through inclusive, robust, and affordable platforms. With a strong ecosystem of academic-business-government-community partnership, PathGen seeks to democratize precision medicine, especially in developing countries, and enable molecular diagnostics for all. "Each year, we establish several XTC Special Awards to recognize outstanding startups in solving specific challenges of the moment and to address our partners' interests. We are thrilled to announce this year's Special Awards Winners who are catalysts in driving transformative changes to create an equitable, diverse, inclusive, healthy and prosperous world," said Victoria Slivkoff, Executive Managing Director of Extreme Tech Challenge.

"So many startups were deserving of these accolades this year. All 80 Global Finalists are winners in their own right. It is deeply gratifying to me personally and professionally to continue supporting them with the resources and the global network of XTC to further their impact," said Slivkoff. The seven XTC Category and four Special Award Winners will take center stage at the Extreme Tech Challenge 2021 Global Finals presented by TechCrunch to pitch to a judging panel of world-renown corporate executives and investors where one startup will be crowned the Global Winner of XTC 2021. The event will also feature investor panels on key technology and investment trends in sustainability and will end with live virtual networking. About Extreme Tech Challenge Extreme Tech Challenge is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public benefit corporation whose mission is to empower startups creating new tech innovations to address global challenges. It is the world's largest ecosystem and competition for purpose-driven technology inspired by the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Extreme Tech Challenge competition is supported by leading corporations, venture capital investors, foundations, policymakers, universities and tech conferences to give exceptional startups the potential for global visibility, the opportunity to raise capital, the ability to network with global leaders, and access to world-class mentorship to help them pioneer technological breakthroughs that address our most extreme global challenges. A complete list of XTC partners and how to join can be found at www.extremetechchallenge.org. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210714005941/en/

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[July 14, 2021] ChargePoint Announces Pricing of Secondary Public Offering of Common Stock by Selling Stockholders

ChargePoint Holdings, Inc. ("ChargePoint" or the "Company") (NYSE:CHPT), a leading electric vehicle ("EV") charging network, announced today the pricing of its previously announced underwritten secondary offering of 12,000,000 shares of the Company's common stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the "Common Stock"), by certain stockholders of the Company (the "Selling Stockholders"), at a public offering price of $23.50 per share. The offering consists entirely of secondary shares to be sold by the Selling Stockholders. The Selling Stockholders will receive all of the proceeds from the offering. The offering is expected to close on or about July 19, 2021, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions. The Selling Stockholders have granted the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 1,800,000 shares of Common Stock from the Selling Stockholders at the public offering price, less underwriting discounts and commissions. BofA Securities, Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and Oppenheimer & Co. are acting as joint lead book-running managers for this offering and as representatives of the underwriters for the offering. Morgan Stanley is also acting as book-running manager for the offering. Citigroup, D.A. Davidson & Co., HSBC, Roth Capital Partners and Wolfe (News - Alert) I Nomura Strategic Alliance are acting as co-managers for the offering. A registration statement (including a prospectus) relating to the offering of Common Stock has been filed with, and declared effective by, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the " SEC (News - Alert) "). You may obtain these documents for free by visiting EDGAR on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. When available, a copy of the final prospectus related to the offering may also be obtained from: BofA Securities, Attention: Prospectus Department, NC1-004-03-43, 200 North College Street, 3rd floor, Charlotte, NC 28255-0001 or by email at dg.prospectus_requests@bofa.com; Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, Attention: Prospectus Department, 200 West Street, New York, New York 10282; or Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. Attention: Syndicate Prospectus Department, 85 Broad Street, 26th Floor, New York, NY 10004 or by email at EquityProspectus@opco.com. The offering of these securities will be made only by means of a prospectus. 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 these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction. "Wolfe I Nomura Strategic Alliance" is the marketing name used by Wolfe Research Securities and Nomura Securities International, Inc. in connection with certain equity capital markets activities conducted jointly by the firms. For these activities, Nomura serves as the underwriter, placement agent, or initial purchaser (as applicable) and Wolfe Research Securities provides sales support services, investor education, and/or independent equity research services. About ChargePoint Holdings, Inc. ChargePoint is creating a new fueling network to move people and goods on electricity. Since 2007, ChargePoint has been committed to making it easy for businesses and drivers to go electric with one of the largest EV charging networks and a comprehensive potfolio of charging solutions available today. ChargePoint's cloud subscription platform and software-defined charging hardware are designed to include options for every charging scenario from home and multifamily to workplace, parking, hospitality, retail and transport fleets of all types.



Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact or relating to present facts or current conditions included in this press release are forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the offering. Forward-looking statements give our current expectations and projections relating to our financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business. You can identify forward-looking statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements may include words such as "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "project," "seek," "plan," "intend," "believe," "will," "may," "could," "continue," "likely," "should," and other words.

The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on our current expectations and assumptions regarding our business, the economy, and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, by their nature, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks, and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. As a result, our actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include regional, national or global political, economic, business, competitive, market and regulatory conditions and the following: we are an early stage company with a history of losses, and expect to incur significant expenses and continuing losses for the near term; we may fail to grow effectively; we face competition from a number of companies and expect to face significant competition in the future; we may fail to effectively expand our sales and marketing capabilities; we face risks related to health pandemics, including the COVID-19 pandemic; we rely on a limited number of suppliers and manufacturers for our charging stations; our business is subject to risks associated with construction, cost overruns and delays; future acquisitions or strategic investments could be difficult to identify and integrate, divert the attention of key management personnel, disrupt our business and dilute stockholder value; we may be unable to attract and retain key employees and hire qualified management, technical, engineering and sales personnel; we are expanding operations internationally, which will expose us to additional tax, compliance, market and other risks; some members of our management have limited experience in operating a public company; we may need to raise additional funds and these funds may not be available when needed; our future revenue growth will depend on our ability to increase sales of our products and services; we are vulnerable to possible computer malware, viruses, ransomware, hacking, phishing attacks and similar disruptions; our headquarters and other facilities are located in an active earthquake zone; seasonality may cause fluctuations in our revenue; our future growth and success is correlated with and dependent upon the continuing rapid adoption of EVs for passenger and fleet applications; the EV market benefits from the availability of rebates, tax credits and other financial incentives from governments, utilities and others to offset the purchase or operating costs; we may be unable to protect our technology and intellectual property from unauthorized use by third-parties; some of our products contain open-source software, which may pose particular risks to our proprietary software, products and services; we may be unable to remediate our material weaknesses or internal control over financial reporting; the concentration of ownership among our existing executive officers, directors and their affiliates may prevent new investors from influencing significant corporate decisions; we have never paid cash dividends on our capital stock and do not anticipate paying dividends in the foreseeable future; the price of our Common Stock may be subject to wide fluctuations; the coverage of our business or our securities by securities or industry analysts or the absence thereof could adversely affect the trading price and volume of our Common Stock and other securities; sales of a substantial number of shares of our Common Stock by our existing stockholders could cause the price of the Common Stock to decline; our warrants accounted for as a warrant liability; our limited operating history as a public company; our dependence on widespread acceptance and adoption of EVs and increased installation of charging stations at home, at work and on-route; our current dependence on sales of charging stations for most of our revenues; overall demand for EV charging and the potential for reduced demand for EVs if governmental rebates, tax credits and other financial incentives are reduced, modified or eliminated or governmental mandates to increase the use of EVs or decrease the use of vehicles powered by fossil fuels, either directly or indirectly through mandated limits on carbon emissions, are reduced, modified or eliminated; supply chain interruptions; our ability to expand internationally; the need to attract additional fleet operators as customers; potential adverse effects on our revenue and gross margins if customers increasingly claim clean energy credits and, as a result, they are no longer available to be claimed by us; the effects of competition; and the risk that our technology could have undetected defects or errors. Although we have attempted to identify important risk factors, there may be other risk factors not presently known to us or that we presently believe are not material that could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. If any of these risks materialize, or if any of the above assumptions underlying forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results and developments may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this press release speaks only as of the date on which we make it. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law. Comparisons of results for current and any prior periods are not intended to express any future trends or indications of future performance, unless specifically expressed as such, and should be viewed as historical data. CHPT-IR View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210714005943/en/

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[July 14, 2021] BrainChip Engages Integrous Communications as Investor Relations Advisor

BrainChip Holdings Ltd (ASX: BRN), (OTCQX: BRCHF), a leading provider of ultra-low power, high-performance artificial intelligence technology, today announced that it has retained Integrous Communications ("Integrous") as its investor relations advisor. Integrous will lead BrainChip's financial communications and strategic investor relations initiatives. "From being included in the S&P/ASX 300 to our upgraded listing on the OTCQX Market, we have seen a tremendous rise in opportunities on the financial side of our business that requires further attention," said Ken Scarince, CFO of BrainChip. "By retaining an investor relations firm like Integrous, we are able to concentrate on our core competencies of delivering next-generation AI at the Edge solutions. We anticipate our work with Integrous will help attract additional institutional investment while maximizing the returns for our current shareholders." "We are pleased to be working with BrainChip," said Benjamin Jacobson III, Managing Partner of Integrous. "Their revolutionary technology is generations ahead of anything else on the market and near-term catalysts create the perfect timing for exposure to an expanded North American base. We look forward to assisting management with all aspects of their communications and investor relations strategies." About Integrous Communications Integrous Communications is an independent communications and investor relations consulting firm providing a single source solution for financial, corporate governance, applied technology, and integrated corporate communications services. Headquartered in Austin, Texas with offices in the Greate New York area, California, Vancouver and Alberta, Canada, the firm's diverse team of professionals has more than 100 years of combined experience. Integrous serves both domestic and international clients, including companies listed on the U.S., Canadian, Australian and European exchanges.



About BrainChip BrainChip is a global technology company that is producing a groundbreaking neuromorphic processor that brings artificial intelligence to the edge in a way that is beyond the capabilities of other products. The chip is high performance, small, ultra-low power and enables a wide array of edge capabilities that include on-chip training, learning and inference. The event-based neural network processor is inspired by the spiking nature of the human brain and is implemented in an industry standard digital process. By mimicking brain processing BrainChip has pioneered a processing architecture, called Akida, which is both scalable and flexible to address the requirements in edge devices. At the edge, sensor inputs are analyzed at the point of acquisition rather than through transmission via the cloud to a data center. Akida is designed to provide a complete ultra-low power and fast AI Edge Network for vision, audio, olfactory and smart transducer applications. The reduction in system latency provides faster response and a more power efficient system that can reduce the large carbon footprint of data centers.

Additional information is available at https://www.brainchipinc.com Follow BrainChip on Twitter (News - Alert) : https://www.twitter.com/BrainChip_inc Follow BrainChip on LinkedIn (News - Alert) : https://www.linkedin.com/company/7792006 Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain forward-looking statements. The words "believe," "expect," "should," "intend," "estimate," "projects," variations of such words and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements, but their absence does not mean that a statement is not a forward-looking statement. These forward-looking statements are based upon the Company's current expectations and are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Among the important factors that could cause actual results to differ significantly from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements are risks that are detailed in the Company's filings. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210714005944/en/

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[July 14, 2021] Huawei releases NetX2025 Target Network Technical White Paper in APAC

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Huawei released the NetX2025 Target Network Technical White Paper in the Asia Pacific region on 15th July at the CommunicAsia 2021 virtual event. The white paper discussed the blueprint of the Target Network 2025 to facilitate industry-wide strategic thinking of business opportunities and cooperation, according to Judy Peng, Vice President of Huawei Asia Pacific Carrier Business Group. During her speech themed "NetX2025: GUIDE to the Future Network," Judy announced the release of the NetX2025 Target Network Technical White Paper, and introduced the "GUIDE" model of future target network, aiming to help build a stable, reliable, and efficient target network architecture to foster future-oriented differentiated competitiveness, maximize network value, and sustain business success. "ICT infrastructure has become the foundation of the digital economy and development for Asia Pacific countries. Especially in the post-pandemic era, with the large-scale deployment of new technologies, it is changing the way of life and production while facilitating digital transformation services. For operators, customer and service types are changing, and there will be more and more uncertainties in the application scenarios," said the Huawei executive.



Future target network of the GUIDE (Gigabit Anywhere, Ultra-Automation, Intelligent Multi-Cloud Connection, Differentiated Experience, and Environment Harmony) model, could help operators to cope with the uncertainties and achieve business success, according to Judy Peng.

Gigabit Anywhere, as the first characteristics of the "GUIDE" model, is essential for target networks to provide digital services to users. Gigabit networks are the foundation which a company, a city, and even a country's economy can grow upon. Gigabit connectivity is the most fundamental requirement for manufacturing applications like VR and AR, industrial camera, and production data collection. With 5G massive deployment and more operators launching industry digitalization services, the scale and complexity of networks are increasing exponentially. Ultra-Automation is essential for target networks with intelligent O&M. Operator networks can create greater value by intelligently automating complex tasks and simplifying human work, with the adoption of big intelligent technologies. After years of development, cloud technology has evolved from traditional IT to cloud computing, and then to cloud native, and Intelligent Multi-Cloud Connection creates a target network platform for service aggregation. The digital transformation of enterprises has driven IT systems to become cloud-based, and multi-cloud connection is now essential to meet requirements for cost control, service reliability, and multi-cloud disaster recovery. These changes have driven new requirements for intelligent multi-cloud connection and brought new opportunities for operators to develop cloud-network convergence services. Differentiated Experience is the key to allow target networks to facilitate business success. The essence of user experience is business, and the essence of business is monetization. More and more practices have proven that differentiated experience can create a premium. For example, in the enterprise and government market, stock exchanges are willing to pay 10 times the rent for a 1-ms lower network latency. For operators, differentiated experience means providing both best-effort experience and deterministic experience. Good experience can satisfy users' personal needs and differentiated experience is where operators can gain new value. Environment Harmony is the target network's commitment to social responsibilities, and also a part of the sustainable development strategy of worldwide leading operators. Operators must continuously innovate products and technologies to save energy, reduce emissions, and develop a circular economy. They should also drive industry players to cooperate in order to build a low-carbon society by enabling green connections, services, O&M, and applications through innovations in equipment, power, network deployment, data centers, operations, and applications. "The GUIDE model serves as an exploration of the target network 2025. Joint endeavors across industries are imperative to building a future-oriented target network and creating business success. Huawei will work with operators and industry partners to plan the future target network in Asia Pacific to achieve the promising business outlook by 2025," said Judy Peng. For more detailed information, please click to download the NetX2025 Target Network Technical White Paper. SOURCE Huawei Technologies

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[July 14, 2021] CICC Publishes Thematic Research on How AI Empowers Achievement of Carbon Neutrality

BEIJING, July 14, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- China International Capital Corporation Limited (CICC, 3908.HK, 601995.SH) held the Investment and Financing Theme Forum at the 2021 World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, during which it published a research report, Achieving Carbon Neutrality amid Thriving AI. CICC Research's Technology Group has joined together with multiple sector research teams to complete this in-depth analysis covering potential scenarios for AI-enabled carbon emission reduction. The report demonstrates the practical effects and the evolutionary trends of AI in terms of improving efficiency, saving energy, as well as reducing emissions consumption. Peng Hu, Chief Analyst of CICC's Technology Hardware Group, delivered a keynote speech to the conference, analyzing how AI can help achieve carbon neutrality, as well as the investment opportunities in the technology industry, for example, AI-enabled cities, AI-enabled vehicles, AI-enabled smart manufacturing, and AI-enabled power. Carbon neutrality, an important application for AI After the 21st United Nations Climate Change Conference, the achievement of carbon neutrality has become a global goal. As of the end of 2020, 44 countries and regions around the world made commitments on carbon neutrality. China also announced that it would achieve peak carbon levels by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060. CICC believes that the key to achieving carbon neutrality lies in the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions per unit of GDP, which puts pressure on areas such as energy, transportation, manufacturing and urban construction planning in the context of China's rapid economic growth. AI is expected to promote efficiency and consumption reduction in a number of different areas and help achieve the goal of carbon neutrality. Peng explains that AI can help in three ways: prediction, monitoring and optimization. AI helps carbon neutrality in four major areas In Peng's view, AI could help achiee the goal of carbon neutrality in the four fields, namely cities, smart manufacturing, vehicles and power.



City planning - AI could be used to dynamically predict urban development, improve the structure of cities, and ease problems related to long-distance commuting.

Smart manufacturing - AI could help cut production costs and improve the efficiency.

Vehicles - AI will drive the transformation of the traditional automotive industry, improve the consumer experience in the fields of self-driving and intelligent logistics, as well as reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions.

Power, AI will play an important role in the digitalization of the power grid, improve overall energy supply efficiency of the power system, and achieve the effect of reducing carbon emissions. Investment opportunities in the science and technology industries against the backdrop of carbon neutrality ESG investing has become a global trend. Peng believes that the ESG investment philosophy will prompt listed companies to pay more attention to the control of carbon emissions. Over the long term, companies with higher ESG level will achieve better operation results and more sustainable returns, which creates new investment opportunities. Peng points out that AI should also be filled with "humanistic care", which is not only a technical term that means increase efficiency and profits, but also plays a greater role in improving the living environment, creating social welfare and enhancing human well-being.

Peng suggests to focus the investment opportunities in the following 10 areas amid AI-enabled carbon neutrality: 1) smart power grids; 2) drones for civilian use; 3) mobile robots; 4) industrial internet platforms; 5) machine vision; 6) smart cities; 7) cloud computing; 8) AI chips; 9) intelligent driving; and 10) sensors. According to the CICC's forecast, the increase of the market size of these 10 areas is around RMB 2 trillion in China over the next decade (20212030). To read the full research report, click here: https://en.cicc.com/api/upload/uploadService/dowloadEx?fileId=24884&tenantId=123890 China International Capital Corporation Limited (CICC): China International Capital Corporation Limited (CICC, 03908.HK,601995.SH) is a top tier investment bank, founded in China in 1995, providing first-class financial services to corporates, institutions and individuals worldwide. As the first international joint-venture investment bank in China, CICC plays a unique role to support China's economic reforms and liberalization through providing comprehensive one-stop domestic, overseas, and cross-border financial services including investment banking, equities, FICC, asset management, private equity investment, wealth management and research. Headquartered in Beijing, CICC has over 200 branches in Mainland China and offices in Hong Kong, Singapore, New York, London, San Francisco, Frankfurt and Tokyo. For more information about CICC, please visit www.cicc.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cicc-publishes-thematic-research-on-how-ai-empowers-achievement-of-carbon-neutrality-301334340.html SOURCE China International Capital Corporation Limited

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[July 14, 2021] Transportation Management System Market in North America | Analyzing Growth in Systems Software Industry | Technavio

NEW YORK, July 14, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The transportation management system (TMS) market in North America is expected to grow by USD 443.72 million during 2021-2025, according to Technavio. The report offers a detailed analysis of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the transportation management system (TMS) market in North America in optimistic, probable, and pessimistic forecast scenarios. Find extensive research with data synthesis and validation on Transportation Management System (TMS) Market In North America report. Download Sample Now! The transportation management system (TMS) market in North America will witness a neutral impact during the forecast period owing to the widespread growth of the COVID-19 pandemic. As per Technavio's pandemic-focused market research, market growth is likely to increase in 2021 as compared to 2020. With the continuing spread of the novel coronavirus pandemic, organizations across the globe are gradually flattening their recessionary curve by leveraging technology. Many businesses will go through response, recovery, and renewal phases. Building business resilience and enabling agility will aid organizations to move forward in their journey out of the COVID-19 crisis towards the Next Normal. The recovery process involves various phases including: Addressing Potential Impacts by Facilitating changes in Process Designs

Building Resilience by making effective resource and investment choices for individual business units, products, and service lines.

Assessing Impact on Critical IT infrastructure and Software System Find COVID-19 Insights Right Here Key Considerations for Market Forecast: Impact of lockdowns, supply chain disruptions, demand destruction, and change in customer behavior

Optimistic, probable, and pessimistic scenarios for all markets as the impact of pandemic unfolds

Pre- as well as post-COVID-19 market estimates

Quarterly impact analysis and updates on market estimates Gain instant access to 17,000+ market research reports by using

Technavio's SUBSCRIPTION platform Corresponding Reports: Global Intelligent Transport Sstem Market - Global intelligent transport system market is segmented by application (traffic management, toll management, automotive and infotainment telematics, public transport, and others) and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and MEA).





Download Exclusive Free Sample Report Global Logistics Services Software Market - Global logistics services software market is segmented by deployment (on-premise and cloud-based) and geography (APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and MEA).

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Major Three Transportation Management System (TMS) Market In North America Participants: American Software Inc.

The company offers the Transport management system. It is a multi-modal, automated solution, which helps organizations gain control of load planning/optimization, load tendering, carrier selection, shipping, tracking, freight audit, and allocation of inbound and outbound shipments. It provides TMS system through its subsidiary Logility. BluJay Solutions Ltd.

The company offers solutions such as transportation management and warehouse management for end-users to manage their operations effectively. E2open LLC

The company offers TMS, supply chain management applications, which monitor the inventory, invoice, and others. If you purchase a report that is updated in the next 60 days, we will send you the new edition and data extract FREE! Get the report snapshot here for a detailed market share analysis of market participants during COVID-19 lockdown:

https://www.technavio.com/report/transportation-management-system-market-in-north-america-industry-analysis Transportation Management System (TMS) Market in North America 2021-2025: Segmentation Transportation management system (TMS) market in North America is segmented as below: Solution

Cloud-based



On-premises

Geography

US



Canada



Mexico The transportation management system (TMS) market in North America is driven by the increasing need for efficient operations. In addition, a rise in the number of strategic partnerships is expected to trigger the transportation management system (TMS) market in North America toward witnessing a CAGR of over 9.06% during the forecast period. Get Actionable Insights on each Contributing Segments. Download Free Sample Report: https://www.technavio.com/talk-to-us?report=IRTNTR41159 Market Drivers

Market Challenges

Market Trends

Vendor Landscape Vendors covered

Vendor classification

Market positioning of vendors

Competitive scenario About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contact

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[July 14, 2021] Aiah.ai and Brankas launch Open Finance eCommerce

SINGAPORE, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Philippines - Aiah, a process automation and conversational commerce company based in the Philippines has recently partnered with Brankas to expand its payment channels to offer direct debit bank transfers as a payment option for their MSME merchants and Enterprise clients. With Brankas, Aiah merchants can easily create and link their Brankas Pay account within the Aiah Platform to be able to accept direct debit as a payment option. Aiah Commerce helps merchants sell their products on messaging platforms, like Messenger and Instagram. Merchants can automate an end-to-end purchase process, from the first hello, to the product selection, bank transfer payment and even deliveries. Increase engagement and reduce drop off rates with Aiah.



Powered by Brankas' secure Open Banking API technology and bank integration suite, customers can now pay via bank transfers from and to any of the country's leading banks. Direct debit users enjoy market leading transaction fees, benefitting merchants and the local economy. This payment option adds on to the current payment method via GCash, an e-wallet in The Philippines.

"We are happy to partner with Brankas, who also shares our mission of bringing convenience and accessibility to merchants in the Philippines. As Aiah Commerce gains more traction with small and large enterprises, we are confident that Brankas can help support, and grow, the businesses of our retail clients," Maria Carmela de Jesus, Chief Marketing Officer of Aiah. "Brankas and Aiah are making it easier than ever to bring your business online - no need to pay for expensive shopping cart platforms and payment gateways. By combining Aiah's conversational commerce technology with Brankas Open Finance APIs, we are empowering businesses with the flexibility to easily reach their customers through any social media and messaging platform,' said Todd Schweitzer, Brankas CEO. Reach us at marketing@aiah.ai and learn how your business can benefit from bots and open banking APIs. SOURCE Brankas

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[July 15, 2021] The Trust Project Expands Network and Wins New Funding

Newest sites expand Trust Indicators' global impact on news literacy PACIFICA, Calif., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Advancing the Trust Project campaign against imposter sites peddling falsehoods, five news sites have earned the Trust Mark and joined the project's network of news organizations committed to transparency, impartiality and accuracy. The global Trust Network now extends to Panama and across 43 of the 50 United States, including a new, on-air presence in broadcast. The nonprofit also announced renewed funding from Democracy Fund to amplify trustworthy journalism as a means to support the democratic process. "We are proud to help more people throughout the world use the Trust Indicators to find a trusted information partner, which will enable them to make informed decisions about their lives, their communities and their governments," said Sally Lehrman, founder and CEO of the Trust Project. "Our new partner sites are deepening their dedication to the fundamentals of journalism, including reporting with integrity, honesty and inclusion at heart." The Trust Mark logo indicates that a site has made specific commitments and shows on its pages the 8 Trust Indicators, a global standard for news transparency and integrity. The 8 Trust Indicators detail who and what is behind a given news site and help people easily distinguish impartial journalism from rumor and deception  critical at all times, but especially so today. The news sites expand the Trust Project's network into new regions of Brazil, the Catalonia region of Spain, Panama, and across wide portions of the United States underserved by news organizations: The leading news site in the Brazilian state of Espirto Santo, A Gazeta delivers daily local and regional content on a wide range of public interest topics.



Amazonia Real features a network of reporters, many indigenous themselves, who cover environmental issues along the Amazon region and give visibility to indigenous and riverside populations, especially those not covered by mainstream press. The high-circulation daily El Periodico de Catalunya serves its region and Spain more generally with progressive, secular attention to human, social and economic rights, with a focus on people, the planet and progress.

La Prensa is a respected independent voice in Panama, with no single controlling owner, even undergoing several forced closures by government forces over its 40 years. Its mission is to strengthen democracy in Panama. Public News Service provides reporting to about 60 million people weekly through more than 4,000 local radio, print, television and online outlets, with a focus on rural communities that receive little news media attention. Through the news service, audiences will now routinely hear the Trust Indicators on air. The new partners underwent an extensive process to implement the Trust Project's 8 Trust Indicators  evaluating and updating policies, creating new procedures, and adding transparency to existing standards. Developed by The Trust Project in collaboration with both the public and leaders in news organizations worldwide, the 8 Trust Indicators help news media hold themselves accountable and dedicate themselves to the public interest. They increasingly are being used as a news literacy training tool and for external assessment of news site validity. The 8 Trust Indicators include: Best Practices (standards and policies) Journalist Expertise Type of Work Labels References for claims Methods of reporting Local expertise and sourcing Diverse Voices and perspectives Actionable Feedback (public engagement) Democracy Fund is a valued contributor to the Trust Project along with Craig Newmark Philanthropies, Facebook and Google. Trust Project policies and the Trust Indicators are shaped and enforced independently from the project's funding sources. To learn more about The Trust Project and the 8 Trust Indicators, visit thetrustproject.org. About the Trust Project:

The Trust Project is a global network of news organizations working to affirm and amplify journalism's commitment to transparency, accuracy and inclusion. The project created the Trust Indicators, which are a collaborative, journalism-generated standard for news transparency that helps both people and algorithms easily assess the authority and integrity of news. The Trust Indicators are based in robust user-centered design research and respond to public needs and wants. The Trust Project, Trust Indicators and Trust Mark logo are exclusive trademarks of The Trust Project. For more, visit thetrustproject.org/faq/ . For more information about this release, contact: Jessica Sterling, Program Assistant

Jcsterling@thetrustproject.org Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1574409/The_Trust_Projects_expansion.jpg

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[July 15, 2021]

Post COVID-19 Procurement Report on Digital Signal Processor Market | SpendEdge

NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In-depth analysis and data-driven insights on the impact of COVID-19 on the Digital Signal Processor market, predict that this market expects a price change of 3%-5% during the forecast period.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the major market threats for Digital Signal Processor Market?

The pressure from substitutes and a moderate level of threat from new entrants has resulted in the Moderate bargaining power of suppliers.

The pressure from substitutes and a moderate level of threat from new entrants has resulted in the Moderate bargaining power of suppliers. Who are the key vendors in Digital Signal Processor Market?

NXP Semiconductors NV, Texas Instruments Incorp., Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Intel Corp., Analog Devices Inc., Fujitsu Ltd., Broadcom Inc., Advanced Micro Devices Inc., NVIDIA Corp., and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd., are some of the major market participants.

NXP Semiconductors NV, Texas Instruments Incorp., Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Intel Corp., Analog Devices Inc., Fujitsu Ltd., Broadcom Inc., Advanced Micro Devices Inc., NVIDIA Corp., and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd., are some of the major market participants. What are the pricing models followed by buyers?

Fixed pricing model, Volume-based pricing model, and Competitive pricing model are the widely adopted pricing models in commercial vehicle cabin procurement.

Fixed pricing model, Volume-based pricing model, and Competitive pricing model are the widely adopted pricing models in commercial vehicle cabin procurement. What will be incremental spending in commercial vehicle cabin procurement?

The procurement market will register an incremental spend of about USD 5 .65 billion, during 2021-2025.

The procurement market will register an incremental spend of about .65 billion, during 2021-2025. What is the expected CAGR of the Digital Signal Processor Market?

The Digital Signal Processor market will grow at a CAGR of about 8.17% during 2021-2025.

Find more detailed COVID-19 impact analysis on the Digital Signal Processor Market:

www.spendedge.com/report/digital-signal-processor-sourcing-and-procurment-intelligence-report







Related Reports on Heavy Industry Include:

Fruits and Vegetable Processing Equipment - Forecast and Analysis : The fruits and vegetable processing equipment will grow at a CAGR of 5.52% during 2021-2025 . Click the above link for a free sample report.

The fruits and vegetable processing equipment will grow at a . Click the above link for a free sample report. Amusement Park Construction Services Sourcing and Procurement Report : This report evaluates suppliers based on quality of services to ensure safety of drugs and medical devices, therapeutic expertise, reputation and level of experience, and global reach and capacity.

This report evaluates suppliers based on quality of services to ensure safety of drugs and medical devices, therapeutic expertise, reputation and level of experience, and global reach and capacity. Waste Management Equipment- Sourcing and Procurement Intelligence Report: This report evaluates suppliers based on warranties, low lifecycle costs, proximity to the buyers location, and manufacturing performance. The pressure from substitutes and a high level of threat from new entrants has resulted in the moderate bargaining power of suppliers.

Commercial Vehicle Cabin Market's Procurement Report Highlights Information on:

What are the changes expected in the price forecast report?

Is my Digital Signal Processor TCO (total cost of ownership) favorable?

Is my Digital Signal Processor TCO (total cost of ownership) favorable?

What is driving the current and future price changes?

Key trends and drivers in this market

Table of Content

Executive Summary

Market Insights

Category Pricing Insights

Cost-saving Opportunities

Best Practices

Category Ecosystem

Category Management Strategy

Category Management Enablers

Suppliers Selection

Suppliers under Coverage

US Market Insights

Category scope

Appendix

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[July 15, 2021] OPPO Launches Renovators 2021 Emerging Artists Project, Lighting Up the Creative Dreams of the Youth Worldwide

The leading global smart device brand OPPO officially launched OPPO Renovators 2021, the 3rd iteration of its Emerging Artists Project, today. In addition to being a competition for art and technology lovers around the world, OPPO Renovators 2021 also aims to serve as a platform for young creators to boldly imagine the future with art and technology. With the Renovators program rolling out worldwide, OPPO will build an active community through which emerging artists can seek guidance and inspiration from renowned artists, showcase their work on international platforms, and have access to once-in-a-lifetime career opportunities. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005395/en/ (Graphic: Business Wire) OPPO Renovators 2021 encourages young creators to unleash their creativity and imagine the possibilities of technology through art. As the program's brand initiator, William Liu, Vice President and President of Global Marketing at OPPO, said, "OPPO has always believed in the power of the young generation and wants the world to witness the brilliance of creative young artists. The next inspiration that changes the world could come from th youth of today, and we want to do all within our power to spur this creative thinking."



With multiple competition categories, there are unlimited ways to explore this year's theme of Light The theme for this year's Renovators program is Light. As a source of energy on earth and an essential part to most life, light has always been used to symbolize expressions of positivity, such as love and hope. With the warmth and illumination of light, OPPO hopes to create a sense of calm and optimism, encouraging young creators to break through the boundaries of art and ignite their creativity.

Under the theme of Light, OPPO Renovators 2021 includes two professional contest categories - ART TECH and ART TOY - as well as a Portrait Capture category targeted at creative enthusiasts. In the ART TECH category, young artists can freely explore the fusion of technology and art; in the ART TOY category, artists are invited to imagine their own take on OPPO's mascot, Ollie, in the form of a collectible designer toy; and in the Portrait Capture category, entrants can submit their own captivating human stories as told through portrait images or videos. Awards and global stages for the bright artists of tomorrow OPPO Renovators 2021 will leverage OPPO's global resources to help the growth and development of the program's talented artists. In addition to a number of generous prizes and awards, the artworks selected from OPPO Renovators 2021 will have the opportunity to be displayed at global exhibitions such as London Design Festival and Dubai World Expo, as well as continuous exposure through global online exhibitions. Furthermore, young designers participating in OPPO Renovators 2021 will have the chance to become contracted OPPO designers, through which there may be commercial opportunities to further realize their creative ideas. As another highlight of the competition, OPPO Renovators 2021 is not only being hosted in collaboration with world's top art and design institutions, but also with the support of the renowned artists and designers who make up its judging panel. The big names include legendary international designer Kashiwa Sato, one of the founders of video art Gary Hill, audiovisual artist Ryoichi Kurokawa, and branding consultant Tommy Li. For more information and to take part in OPPO Renovators 2021, please visit the official OPPO Renovators 2021 website: https://campus.oppo.com/en/. All artworks must be submitted before GMT 24:00 August 29, 2021 to be eligible. The final results will be announced before GMT 24:00 September 18, 2021. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005395/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Ada expands its global leadership team to help drive company's rapid growth

- Ada makes three new leadership team appointments, hiring Gulsah Wilke and Torsten Schero to the roles of Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer respectively, and naming Vanessa Lemarie as Chief Client Officer - The new appointments bring extensive experience scaling technology companies and driving operational excellence at high-growth and incumbent businesses BERLIN and LONDON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Ada, the global health company, today announces the appointment of digital transformation veterans Gulsah Wilke, Torsten Schero and Vanessa Lemarie to the roles of Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Client Officer respectively. Wilke, Schero and Lemarie will be central to Ada's ambitious business growth trajectory in their new roles, as the company accelerates its path towards becoming the world's leading personalised operating system for health. The appointments follow a period of significant growth for Ada: its AI-based health assessment and care navigation platform is the world's most popular and highest-rated symptom assessment app, with over 23 million assessments completed since launch. Meanwhile, the company has also rapidly launched a suite of AI-driven enterprise solutions, collaborating with a range of health systems, insurers, life sciences companies, and global non-profit organizations to integrate its symptom assessment and care navigation solutions across a wide variety of digital care journeys. Earlier this year, the company announced a $90 million Series B investment led by Leaps by Bayer to further accelerate this growth. Wilke, Schero and Lemarie join Ada's leadership team alongside co-founder and CEO Daniel Nathrath, co-founder and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Claire Novorol, and Chief Technology Officer Dr. Urban Liebel. Daniel Nathrath, CEO & Co-founder of Ada, said: "We couldn't be happier to be welcoming Gulsah and Torsten to Ada, and to be welcoming Vanessa to the leadership team, as we enter a hugely exciting new chapter for the company. Our goal at Ada is to improve healthcare outcomes for more than 1 billion people around the world, an ambition we can only achieve with the very best people on-board; Gulsah and Torsten both have exceptional track records spearheading strategy and driving organisation excellence at high-growth businesses, and bring with them a wealth of operational and financial expertise. Vanessa has been absolutely critical to Ada's continued success and business development strategy, and we are thrilled that she will continue to drive the company's growth in her new role. These appointments put us in an excellent position to pursue our ambitious growth journey, expand our consumer and enterprise offerings, nd transform the way people access healthcare for the better."



Gulsah Wilke: Chief Operating Officer Gulsah Wilke is a tech leader, advisor and investor who brings extensive experience scaling technology companies, creating organisational excellence and driving digital transformation. Most recently, Wilke served as an investor and head of operations, pricing and portfolio at Axel Springer. As a member of the supervisory board of StepStone, she was instrumental in shaping the success of Axel Springer's biggest portfolio company as well as Axel Springer's take private with KKR. Previously, she steered the Axel Springer Silicon Valley office, identified partnership and investment opportunities, and built a digital transatlantic hub. Prior to this, Wilke worked as a management consultant at McKinsey & Company and IBM advising international companies on strategic and digital transformation. She is passionate about fostering diverse teams and leadership-building in tech, and uses experience, expertise, and network as Co-Founder of the 2Hearts Tech Community (supported by the Deutschlandstiftung Integration) to empower talent with migrant backgrounds in the tech ecosystem.

As part of her role as COO, Wilke will oversee Ada's strategy process and lead operations, legal, marketing & communications as well as people & culture. Gulsah Wilke, Chief Operating Officer at Ada, said: "Having observed the market for a number of years, I have been thoroughly impressed by Ada's superior technology and knowledge-base, industry-leading AI, and purpose-driven culture to provide people around the world better access to healthcare. I am thrilled to be joining the team at Ada, and look forward to further shaping the company's already extraordinary success and growth alongside the team." Torsten Schero: Chief Financial Officer Torsten Schero is a visionary and strategic thinker with over 15 years' experience in CFO and CEO roles across startup, scale-up and incumbent businesses. He brings a wealth of experience driving operational excellence, building efficient teams and managing finance and business operations departments in high-growth businesses. Prior to Ada, Schero spent a number of years at Amazon Deutschland as CFO and Managing Director, Media Business for the DACH region, served as CEO at Rebuy Recommerce and Getnow, and has held a number of further executive and advisory positions. In his new role as CFO, Schero will oversee Ada's financial strategy and its ongoing development as the company charts new growth internationally as well as managing investor relations. Torsten Schero, Chief Financial Officer at Ada, said: "It is hugely exciting to be joining Ada at such a pivotal time in its growth journey, and to be playing a key role in driving the company's financial strategy and key investor relationships through this new chapter. As the healthcare market shifts increasingly into digital services, there is a huge opportunity for Ada and its superior AI technology. I strongly believe in people's right to have access to health systems and medical knowledge, and am pleased to be working with such a great team to make this vision a reality for more people around the world." Vanessa Lemarie: Chief Client Officer Vanessa Lemarie has previously led the company's life sciences partnerships as Ada's SVP Life Sciences & Rare Diseases, working with a growing range of pharmaceutical and consumer health companies to implement Ada's technology and enable access to high medical quality health assessments and care navigation solutions, as well as leading Ada's Rare Disease Initiative. Prior to Ada, Lemarie spent over fifteen years working with Bayer Pharmaceuticals, holding various Global and Regional leadership roles across Pharma Commercial Operations. In her new role as Chief Client Officer, Vanessa Lemarie will oversee Ada's business development and commercial strategy and partnerships across all industries and health sectors. Vanessa Lemarie, Chief Client Officer at Ada, said: "It has been an absolute privilege to lead our life sciences collaborations over the last couple of years, working with our amazing teams to make Ada the best health assessment solution for users that also generates value for numerous clients across healthcare. Striving to always provide the best possible engagements with our clients, closing ambitious partnerships, and learning how we together best help users all over the world manage their health will be key to our growth and continued commercial success. I am thrilled to now be leading our commercial teams and further develop Ada's exceptional client business." About Ada Ada is a global health company founded by doctors, scientists and industry pioneers to create new possibilities for personal health, and transform knowledge into better outcomes. Its core system connects medical knowledge with intelligent technology to help all people actively manage their health and medical professionals to deliver effective care, and the company works with leading health providers, organizations and governments to carry out this vision. The Ada platform has 11 million users worldwide, and has completed 23 million assessments since its global launch in 2016. In May 2021, Ada raised $90 million in a Series B investment round led by Leaps by Bayer, the impact investment arm of Bayer AG, with participation from the likes of Samsung Catalyst Fund, Vitruvian Partners, Inteligo Bank, F4 and Mutschler Ventures. To learn more, visit www.ada.com . Contact: ada@thisisoutcast.com Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1574322/Schero_Wilke_Lemarie_ADA.jpg

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[July 15, 2021] UnitedHealth Group Reports Second Quarter 2021 Results

Strong and diversified growth continued across UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) in the second quarter 2021. "The compassion, dedication and ongoing efforts of our 330,000 colleagues to advance peoples' health and health system performance reinforces our confidence in delivering strongly on our strategies for those we serve and continuing to grow well into the future," said Andrew Witty, chief executive officer of UnitedHealth Group. Based upon first half 2021 performance, the Company increased its full year net earnings outlook to $17.35 to $17.85 per share and adjusted earnings to $18.30 to $18.80 per share. The outlook continues to include approximately $1.80 per share in potential net unfavorable COVID-19 effects. UnitedHealth Group is focused on helping people access the care they need, including vaccinations, and expects a continued rise in provision of care in the second half of this year. COVID-19 effects include testing and treatment costs; the residual impact of people having deferred care in 2020; and unemployment and other economy-driven factors.







Quarterly Financial Performance Three Months Ended June 30, 2021 June 30, 2020 March 31, 2021 Revenues $71.3 billion $62.1 billion $70.2 billion Earnings from Operations $6.0 billion $9.2 billion $6.7 billion Net Margin 6.0% 10.7% 6.9%

UnitedHealth Group's second quarter 2021 revenues of $71.3 billion grew 14.8% year-over-year, reflecting well-diversified growth across the enterprise, including double-digit percentage growth at both Optum and UnitedHealthcare. Earnings from operations in the second quarter 2021 were $6.0 billion and adjusted earnings were $4.70 per share, with the year-over-year comparisons reflecting the broad-based deferral of care during the second quarter 2020 due to the pandemic. Cash flows from operations in second quarter 2021 were $5.5 billion, or 1.3 times net income. The second quarter 2021 medical care ratio of 82.8% compared to 70.2% last year, with the variance due to second quarter 2020 COVID-19 effects. Favorable medical reserve development was $500 million in the quarter compared to $1.0 billion in the first quarter 2021 and $1.4 billion in the second quarter last year. Days claims payable of 49.1 days compared to 49.8 days in the first quarter 2021 and 50.4 days in the second quarter 2020. The second quarter 2021 operating cost ratio of 14.5% decreased from 16.1% in second quarter 2020. Factors contributing to the decline include the repeal of the health insurance tax, broad-based 2020 investments to support people and health systems, the revenue-related effects of the pandemic, and continued productivity advances, partially offset by business mix and investments. The Company returned $1.4 billion to shareholders in the second quarter via dividends, following a 16% increase in June 2021. In the quarter, 3.2 million shares were repurchased for $1.2 billion, bringing year-to-date repurchases to 7.9 million shares for $2.9 billion. Return on equity of 25.2% in the quarter reflected the Company's strong and diverse earnings profile and efficient capital base. Debt to total capital was 40.1% at quarter end. UnitedHealthcare provides health care benefits globally, serving individuals and employers, and Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. UnitedHealthcare is dedicated to improving the value customers and consumers receive by reducing the total cost of care, enhancing the quality of care received, improving health and wellness and simplifying the health care experience. Quarterly Financial Performance Three Months Ended June 30, 2021 June 30, 2020 March 31, 2021 Revenues $55.5 billion $49.1 billion $55.1 billion Earnings from Operations $3.1 billion $7.0 billion $4.1 billion Operating Margin 5.6% 14.3% 7.5% UnitedHealthcare second quarter 2021 revenues grew by $6.4 billion or 13.0% to $55.5 billion compared to last year. Strong growth in UnitedHealthcare's community and senior offerings resulted from expansion in people served. Since the end of 2020, total people served by UnitedHealthcare grew by nearly 1.2 million, including 150,000 in the second quarter 2021. Second quarter 2021 operating earnings were $3.1 billion compared to $7.0 billion last year, reflecting strong revenue growth, more than offset by pandemic driven deferral of care last year. Growth highlights include: continued strong membership growth during the first half this year in individual Medicare Advantage, Group Medicare Advantage and Dual Special Needs Plans; Medicaid contract awards in Hawaii and Ohio, as well as a strong pipeline of potential new and renewing awards during the remainder of 2021; and further expansion of innovative commercial benefit products and capabilities such as our care provider-aligned and consumer-centric products, and continued outlook for strong specialty benefits growth. Optum is a health services business serving the global health care marketplace, including payers, care providers, employers, governments, life sciences companies and consumers. Using market-leading information, data analytics, technology and clinical insights, Optum helps improve overall health system performance: optimizing care quality, reducing health care costs and improving the consumer experience. Quarterly Financial Performance Three Months Ended June 30, 2021 June 30, 2020 March 31, 2021 Revenues $38.3 billion $32.7 billion $36.4 billion Earnings from Operations $2.9 billion $2.2 billion $2.6 billion Operating Margin 7.5% 6.8% 7.2% Optum second quarter revenues of $38.3 billion grew 17.2% and operating earnings of $2.9 billion grew 29.1%, with each of the three Optum businesses contributing double-digit operating earnings growth. OptumHealth served 99 million people at the end of second quarter 2021 compared to 97 million a year ago, and revenue per consumer served increased 43% year-over-year. This continues the expansion of people served in value-based care arrangements, growth in affiliated physicians and build-out of local market care delivery services including in-home, clinic-based and outpatient services, all on a multi-payer basis. OptumInsight's revenue backlog increased by $1.9 billion or 10% compared to the second quarter 2020 to $21.3 billion, driven by growth in comprehensive managed services. OptumInsight continues to advance initiatives to help health systems scale essential capabilities through the deployment of advanced technology, innovative talent and labor models and progressive approaches to productivity enhancements. This includes a significant new client relationship with Bassett Healthcare Network to help them improve clinical and operational performance. OptumRx adjusted scripts in the quarter were 342 million, growth of 8% compared to last year and 4% from the first quarter 2021, as the provision of care has continued to recover over the last year. Growth highlights include: continued expansion of Optum Care's integrated care delivery networks and growth serving people in their homes; OptumInsight new business wins and continued pipeline expansion in comprehensive managed services, including revenue management, information technology, data analytics and payment integrity; and OptumRx's continued diversification and growth of pharmacy care services, highlighted by specialty pharmacy, infusion services, community-based behavioral health pharmacies and e-commerce. About UnitedHealth Group UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) is a diversified health care company dedicated to helping people live healthier lives and helping make the health system work better for everyone. UnitedHealth Group offers a broad spectrum of products and services through two distinct platforms: Optum, which provides information and technology-enabled health services; and UnitedHealthcare, which provides health care coverage and benefits services. For more information, visit UnitedHealth Group at www.unitedhealthgroup.com or follow @UnitedHealthGrp on Twitter. Earnings Conference Call As previously announced, UnitedHealth Group will discuss the company's results, strategy and future outlook on a conference call with investors at 8:45 a.m. Eastern Time today. UnitedHealth Group will host a live webcast of this conference call from the Investor Relations page of the company's website (www.unitedhealthgroup.com). Following the call, a webcast replay will be available on the same site through July 29, 2021. The conference call replay can also be accessed by dialing 1-888-203-1112, Conference Code: 6765563. This earnings release and the Form 8-K dated July 15, 2021 can also be accessed from the Investor Relations page of the Company's website. Non-GAAP Financial Information This news release presents non-GAAP financial information provided as a complement to the results provided in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"). A reconciliation of the non-GAAP financial information to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure is provided in the accompanying tables found at the end of this release. Forward-Looking Statements The statements, estimates, projections, guidance or outlook contained in this document include "forward-looking" statements which are intended to take advantage of the "safe harbor" provisions of the federal securities law. The words "believe," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "forecast," "outlook," "plan," "project," "should" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. These statements may contain information about financial prospects, economic conditions and trends and involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those that management expects, depending on the outcome of certain factors including: risks associated with public health crises, large-scale medical emergencies and pandemics, such as the COVID-19 pandemic; our ability to effectively estimate, price for and manage medical costs; new or changes in existing health care laws or regulations, or their enforcement or application; the DOJ's legal action relating to the risk adjustment submission matter; our ability to maintain and achieve improvement in quality scores impacting revenue; reductions in revenue or delays to cash flows received under government programs; changes in Medicare, the CMS star ratings program or the application of risk adjustment data validation audits; failure to maintain effective and efficient information systems or if our technology products do not operate as intended; cyberattacks, other privacy/data security incidents, or our failure to comply with related regulations; risks and uncertainties associated with the pharmacy benefits management industry; competitive pressures; changes in or challenges to our public sector contract awards; our ability to contract on competitive terms with physicians, hospitals and other service providers; failure to attract, develop, retain, and manage the succession of key employees and executives; the impact of potential changes in tax laws and regulations (including any increase in the U.S. income tax rate applicable to corporations); failure to achieve targeted operating cost productivity improvements; increases in costs and other liabilities associated with litigation, government investigations, audits or reviews; failure to manage successfully our strategic alliances or complete or receive anticipated benefits of strategic transactions; fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; downgrades in our credit ratings; our investment portfolio performance; impairment of our goodwill and intangible assets; and our ability to obtain sufficient funds from our regulated subsidiaries or from external financings to fund our obligations, maintain our debt to total capital ratio at targeted levels, maintain our quarterly dividend payment cycle, or continue repurchasing shares of our common stock. This above list is not exhaustive. We discuss these matters, and certain risks that may affect our business operations, financial condition and results of operations more fully in our filings with the SEC, including our reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K. By their nature, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or results and are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict or quantify. Actual results may vary materially from expectations expressed or implied in this document or any of our prior communications. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. We do not undertake to update or revise any forward-looking statements, except as required by law. UNITEDHEALTH GROUP Earnings Release Schedules and Supplementary Information Quarter Ended June 30, 2021 - Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations - Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - Supplemental Financial Information - Businesses - Supplemental Financial Information - Business Metrics - Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measure UNITEDHEALTH GROUP CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited) Three Months Ended

June 30, Six Months Ended

June 30, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Revenues Premiums $56,233 $49,394 $111,719 $100,034 Products 8,433 8,247 16,773 16,678 Services 6,099 4,156 12,017 9,141 Investment and other income 556 341 1,008 706 Total revenues 71,321 62,138 141,517 126,559 Operating costs Medical costs 46,546 34,678 91,450 75,678 Operating costs 10,359 10,001 20,582 20,016 Cost of products sold 7,660 7,501 15,232 15,188 Depreciation and amortization 778 717 1,536 1,440 Total operating costs 65,343 52,897 128,800 112,322 Earnings from operations 5,978 9,241 12,717 14,237 Interest expense (410) (430) (807) (867) Earnings before income taxes 5,568 8,811 11,910 13,370 Provision for income taxes (1,196) (2,115) (2,560) (3,209) Net earnings 4,372 6,696 9,350 10,161 Earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests (106) (59) (222) (142) Net earnings attributable to UnitedHealth Group common shareholders $4,266 $6,637 $9,128 $10,019 Diluted earnings per share attributable to UnitedHealth Group common shareholders $4.46 $6.91 $9.55 $10.43 Adjusted earnings per share attributable to UnitedHealth Group common shareholders (a) $4.70 $7.12 $10.02 $10.84 Diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding 956 960 956 961 (a) See page 6 for a reconciliation of the non-GAAP measure UNITEDHEALTH GROUP CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (in millions) (unaudited) June 30, December 31, 2021 2020 Assets Cash and short-term investments $22,561 $19,781 Accounts receivable, net 14,587 12,870 Other current assets 21,768 21,067 Total current assets 58,916 53,718 Long-term investments 44,061 41,242 Other long-term assets 107,315 102,329 Total assets $210,292 $197,289 Liabilities, redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity Medical costs payable $25,131 $21,872 Short-term borrowings and current maturities of long-term debt 3,868 4,819 Other current liabilities 47,558 45,729 Total current liabilities 76,557 72,420 Long-term debt, less current maturities 44,348 38,648 Other long-term liabilities 16,066 15,682 Redeemable noncontrolling interests 1,299 2,211 Equity 72,022 68,328 Total liabilities, redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity $210,292 $197,289 UNITEDHEALTH GROUP CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (in millions) (unaudited) Six Months Ended

June 30, 2021 2020 Operating Activities Net earnings $9,350 $10,161 Noncash items: Depreciation and amortization 1,536 1,440 Deferred income taxes and other 113 238 Share-based compensation 426 388 Net changes in operating assets and liabilities 120 719 Cash flows from operating activities 11,545 12,946 Investing Activities (Purchases of investments, net of sales and maturities) Sales and maturities, net of purchases (2,789) 573 Purchases of property, equipment and capitalized software (1,130) (920) Cash paid for acquisitions, net (4,642) (3,952) Other, net (648) (186) Cash flows used for investing activities (9,209) (4,485) Financing Activities Common share repurchases (2,900) (1,691) Dividends paid (2,548) (2,212) Net change in short-term borrowings and long-term debt 4,858 5,215 Other, net 1,159 1,712 Cash flows from financing activities 569 3,024 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents 6 (143) Increase in cash and cash equivalents 2,911 11,342 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 16,921 10,985 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $19,832 $22,327 UNITEDHEALTH GROUP SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION - BUSINESSES (in millions, except percentages) (unaudited) Three Months Ended

June 30, Six Months Ended

June 30, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Revenues UnitedHealthcare $55,474 $49,107 $110,588 $100,175 Optum 38,303 32,695 74,687 65,534 Eliminations (22,456) (19,664) (43,758) (39,150) Total consolidated revenues $71,321 $62,138 $141,517 $126,559 Earnings from Operations UnitedHealthcare $3,095 $7,007 $7,203 $9,895 Optum (a) 2,883 2,234 5,514 4,342 Total consolidated earnings from operations $5,978 $9,241 $12,717 $14,237 Operating Margin UnitedHealthcare 5.6% 14.3% 6.5% 9.9% Optum 7.5% 6.8% 7.4% 6.6% Consolidated operating margin 8.4% 14.9% 9.0% 11.2% Revenues UnitedHealthcare Employer & Individual $14,942 $12,963 $29,574 $27,243 UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement 25,304 22,855 50,778 46,007 UnitedHealthcare Community & State 13,110 11,523 26,083 22,976 UnitedHealthcare Global 2,118 1,766 4,153 3,949 OptumHealth $13,300 $9,139 $25,703 $18,331 OptumInsight 2,957 2,632 5,809 5,126 OptumRx 22,524 21,371 44,128 42,928 Optum eliminations (478) (447) (953) (851) (a) Earnings from operations for Optum for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021 included $1,128 and $2,090 for OptumHealth; $762 and $1,541 for OptumInsight; and $993 and $1,883 for OptumRx, respectively. Earnings from operations for Optum for the three and six months ended June 30, 2020 included $841 and $1,553 for OptumHealth; $561 and $1,097 for OptumInsight; and $832 and $1,692 for OptumRx, respectively. UNITEDHEALTH GROUP SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION - BUSINESS METRICS UNITEDHEALTHCARE CUSTOMER PROFILE (in thousands) People Served June 30, 2021 March 31, 2021 December 31, 2020 June 30, 2020 Commercial: Risk-based 7,840 7,860 7,910 8,065 Fee-based 18,395 18,455 18,310 18,705 Total Commercial 26,235 26,315 26,220 26,770 Medicare Advantage 6,385 6,335 5,710 5,605 Medicaid 7,130 6,975 6,620 6,210 Medicare Supplement (Standardized) 4,390 4,390 4,460 4,450 Total Community and Senior 17,905 17,700 16,790 16,265 Total UnitedHealthcare - Domestic Medical 44,140 44,015 43,010 43,035 Global 5,485 5,460 5,425 5,365 Total UnitedHealthcare - Medical 49,625 49,475 48,435 48,400 Supplemental Data Medicare Part D stand-alone 3,750 3,795 4,045 4,120 OPTUM PERFORMANCE METRICS June 30, 2021 March 31, 2021 December 31, 2020 June 30, 2020 OptumHealth Consumers Served (in millions) 99 99 98 97 OptumInsight Contract Backlog (in billions) $21.3 $20.8 $20.2 $19.4 OptumRx Quarterly Adjusted Scripts (in millions) 342 329 331 316 Note: UnitedHealth Group served 146 million unique individuals across all businesses at June 30, 2021. UNITEDHEALTH GROUP RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURE (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited) ADJUSTED NET EARNINGS PER SHARE(a) Three Months Ended

June 30, Six Months Ended

June 30, Projected

Year Ended

December 31, 2021 2020 2021 2020 2021 GAAP net earnings attributable to UnitedHealth Group common shareholders $4,266 $6,637 $9,128 $10,019 $16,550 - $17,050 Intangible amortization 305 267 599 532 ~1,190 Tax effect of intangible amortization (75) (65) (146) (130) ~(290) Adjusted net earnings attributable to UnitedHealth Group common shareholders $4,496 $6,839 $9,581 $10,421 $17,450 - $17,950 GAAP diluted earnings per share $4.46 $6.91 $9.55 $10.43 $17.35 - $17.85 Intangible amortization per share 0.32 0.28 0.63 0.55 ~1.25 Tax effect per share of intangible amortization (0.08) (0.07) (0.16) (0.14) ~(0.30) Adjusted diluted earnings per share $4.70 $7.12 $10.02 $10.84 $18.30 - $18.80 (a) Adjusted net earnings per share is a non-GAAP financial measure. Non-GAAP financial measures should be considered in addition to, but not as a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP.



Adjusted net earnings per share excludes from the relevant GAAP metric, as applicable, intangible amortization and other items, if any, that do not relate to the Company's underlying business performance. Management believes that the use of adjusted net earnings per share provides investors and management useful information about the earnings impact of acquisition-related intangible asset amortization. As amortization fluctuates based on the size and timing of the Company's acquisition activity, management believes this exclusion provides a more useful comparison of the Company's underlying business performance and trends from period to period. While intangible assets contribute to the Company's revenue generation, the intangible amortization is not directly related. Therefore, the related revenues are included in adjusted earnings per share. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005337/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Waystar to Acquire Patientco to Bring True Consumerism to Healthcare, Simplifying Payment Processes for Patients and Providers

LOUISVILLE, Ky., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Waystar , a leading provider of healthcare payments software, today announced a definitive agreement to acquire Patientco, a leading provider of omnichannel patient payments, communications and engagement software. The combination accelerates transformation in the healthcare industry and dramatically improves the patient financial experience. Together, Waystar and Patientco will offer patients consumer-friendly experiences when paying medical bills, while simplifying how providers receive and process payments both before and after care delivery. The combination is subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions. Waystar offers an enterprise, cloud-based software-as-a service that simplifies and unifies healthcare payments, processing nearly a trillion dollars in healthcare claims annually. Patientco provides a holistic view of the patient's financial journey operating within both acute and ambulatory provider HIT and treasury ecosystems. Patientco's platform facilitates more than $2 billion in patient responsibility annually and provides estimates, payment plans, financing options, financial education and counseling, and consolidated statements to more than 30 million patients. The new combined company will offer one of the most comprehensive healthcare payment platforms in the country. "Waystar's purpose is to simplify healthcare payments. Patientco is the perfect partner for Waystar because it helps us transform the patient financial experience and significantly reduce wasteful administrative costs, which are the biggest pain points in healthcare." said Matthew Hawkins, Chief Executive Officer and board member of Waystar. "Patients are more responsible for their healthcare expenses than ever before, and they expect modern, consumer-friendly interactions from healthcare providers and insurers. Together, we will further simplify how patients engage with healthcare providers and provide transparency, empowerment and ease of use that needed to plan and pay for healthcare. Providers will benefit from increased patient satisfaction and fuller reimbursement." "Patientco is proud to be joining forces with Waystar, which will enhance our technology with more accurate patient estimates, streamlined billing and increased propensity to pay," said Bird Blitch, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Patientco. "The combination of our technology and resources brings true transformation to healthcare payments by optimizing the financial experience for both patients and providers." In 2021, Waystar's platform was named Best in KLAS for Claims & Clearinghouse. Waystar is also ranked first in the industry for patient payment technology by Black Book Research. In 2021, Patientco received a Best in KLAS designation for Patient Financial Engagement Platforms. The rise in high deductible plans and out-of-pocket patient payment responsibility combined with the lack of transparency, inaccurate cost estimates and confusing bills has led to patient distrust and lower likelihood of patient payment collection. As such, provider reimbursement takes an average of 90 days, with providers collecting an average of 30-50% on patient balances. According to a recent Waystar survey , more than half of patients surveyed have received an unexpected medical bill and 81% said knowing the actual out-of-pocket cost would make them more likely to seek care. When patients know up front what they will owe for care and have convenient, modern and flexible payment options, providers are better able to build patient loyalty and collect full reimbursements. While others focus on either patient access or provider reimbursement, Waysta will now offer leading-edge technology for both. Combining Patientco's leading patient payments technology with Waystar's financial clearance product suite, artificial intelligence and claims data on 40 percent of the U.S. population will enable patients to experience true price transparency. This combination provides patients with accurate payment estimates before they receive care, consumer-friendly payment options and payment plans tailored to best suit their needs and preferences, increasing patients' likelihood to pay for care and increasing overall satisfaction with their experience. At the same time, providers will be reimbursed faster, fuller, and at a lower cost.



"Waystar has an exceptionally strong management team and a proven ability to integrate acquisitions. Our investor group has significant financial resources, which enables us to support the Waystar team in pursuing strategic deals of this nature," said Eric Liu, Partner and Global Co-Head of Healthcare at EQT. "We are delighted with this combination as it advances Waystar's mission to simplify healthcare payments." Waystar is backed by EQT, CPPIB and Bain Capital, and Patientco is backed by Accel-KKR and The Blue Venture Fund. Formed in 2017 through the combination of revenue cycle market leaders Navicure and ZirMed, Waystar has integrated several transformational technologies onto its cloud-based platform. Other recent acquisitions include eSolutions , a leading provider in Medicare-specific revenue cycle technology solutions; Recondo , a patient estimation and prior authorization AI and RPA-driven technology; PARO , a presumptive charity scoring solution; Ovation , an AI-powered claims monitoring tool; and Connance , leveraging predictive analytics to offer agency manager, advanced propensity to pay (AP2P) and presumptive charity.

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP served as legal counsel to Waystar, and Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP served as legal counsel to Patientco. About Waystar

Waystar provides next-generation, cloud-based technology that simplifies and unifies healthcare payments. The Waystar platform removes friction in payment processes, streamlines workflows and improves financials for providers in every care setting. Waystar products have won Best in KLAS or Category Leader every year since 2010 and earned multiple #1 rankings from Black Book surveys since 2012. The Waystar platform supports more than 500,000 providers, 1,000 health systems and hospitals, 5,000 payers and health plans and processes claims for approximately 40 percent of the U.S. population annually. Waystar is backed by EQT, Canada Pension Plan Investment Board and Bain Capital. For more information, visit waystar.com or follow @Waystar on Twitter. About Patientco

Patientco, recently named Best in KLAS for Patient Financial Engagement Platforms, is a vertically-integrated payment technology company that was founded specifically to rethink the patient payment experience in healthcare. We provide greater connectivity, advanced analytics and more, so that health systems only need one patient payments partner and technology platform. Given the comprehensive nature of our platform, Patientco improves financial care across the entire patient journey, from pre-service to post-service, while increasing payments and revenue for today's top health systems. Our platform has also received Healthcare Financial Management Association's Peer Review designation. Patientco is making healthcare better one payment at a time. To learn more, email learnmore@patientco.com, visit www.patientco.com or connect on LinkedIn. Contact:

waystar@missionnorth.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/waystar-to-acquire-patientco-to-bring-true-consumerism-to-healthcare-simplifying-payment-processes-for-patients-and-providers-301334442.html SOURCE Waystar

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[July 15, 2021] NightDragon, Macnica Networks Launch Innovative Partnership to Expand Portfolio Company Go-to-Market Reach

SAN FRANCISCO, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- NightDragon, a dedicated cybersecurity, safety, security and privacy investment firm, today announced it is partnering with Macnica Networks, Japan's largest distribution company and a global technology solutions distribution company, for a partnership agreement to extend the reach of its portfolio companies into the Japanese market. Macnica Networks, member of Macnica Group, is a value-added distributor focused on bringing innovative technology into the Japanese market. Macnica Networks has a track record of driving net new growth for prominent technology startups in the Japan and APAC regions. It has seen particular success within cybersecurity, most recently helping to launch the Japan business for market leaders such as FireEye, CrowdStrike and Exabeam. Under this partnership, Macnica Networks will distribute the products of NightDragon's portfolio companies in Japan, providing its customers with access to innovative and cutting-edge cybersecurity technology. "The demand for cybersecurity, safety, security and privacy technologies is greater than ever before against a rapidly evolving threat landscape. NightDragon is unparalleled in its ability to recognize today's market-leading and innovative products and we are proud to partner to make these technologies available to our customers and serve as a foundation for future go-to-market growth in the region," said Jun Ikeda, President, Macnica Networks. The partnership builds on NightDragon's ongoing commitment to anticipate the needs of its portfolio companies and support the expansion of their go-to-market capabilities. The NightDragon-Macnica Networks partnership will provide preferred marketing, pricing and support fo NightDragon's portfolio companies. It will also directly align the portfolio companies with a leading global distribution leader to help them expand into the Japanese market, where the domestic cybersecurity spending is estimated to grow to $3.3 billion by 2022, up 25% from 2017.



"NightDragon is committed to being a true venture partner to our portfolio companies, not only providing capital but also supporting their go-to-market growth needs to help them reach their maximum potential. By aligning ourselves with a global distribution leader like Macnica Networks, we are making it easier than ever for our portfolio companies to grow into new markets and achieve new levels of success," said Dave DeWalt, Founder and Managing Director, NightDragon. As part of its newly formalized NightDragon Network, an exclusive community with partnerships and networking opportunities for its portfolio companies and executive leadership, NightDragon plans to structure further partnerships to accelerate go-to-market and enable business operations for its companies around the world.

About NightDragon

NightDragon is an investment and advisory firm focused on growth and late-stage investments within the cybersecurity, safety, security and privacy industries. Its platform and vast industry network provide unparalleled threat insights, deal flow, market leverage and operating expertise to drive portfolio company growth and increase shareholder value. The NightDragon team has more than 25 years of operational and market expertise and was founded by Dave DeWalt and Ken Gonzalez, who served as senior executives leading technology companies such as Documentum, EMC, Siebel Systems (Oracle), McAfee, Mandiant, Avast and FireEye. About Macnica Networks

Macnica Networks works with a large number of overseas companies to provide the latest technological advances in network devices and software. Its extensive range of products, and installation and maintenance support services make it a favorite of governmental and educational establishments, and private sector corporations. Company name: Macnica Networks Corp.

Capital: 300 million yen (as of March 31, 2021)

* Wholly-owned subsidiary of Macnica, Inc.

Founded: March 1, 2004

Head office: 1-5-5 Shin-Yokohama, Kouhoku-ku, Yokohama, Japan 222-8562

President: Jun Ikeda

Employees: 817(as of March 31, 2021)

Website: https://www.macnica.net/english/

Accounting year: To March

Business: Importation, development, and marketing of hardware and software, consulting, and maintenance services relating to networks, computers, and communications systems for commercial users * Company and product names appearing in the text are registered trademarks or trademarks of the respective MEDIA CONTACT:

Sarah Kuranda

sarah@nightdragon.com View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nightdragon-macnica-networks-launch-innovative-partnership-to-expand-portfolio-company-go-to-market-reach-301332853.html SOURCE NightDragon

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[July 15, 2021] Advisor Group Recruits Precision Wealth Solutions, New York-Area Wealth Management Practice with $121 Million in Client Assets

PHOENIX, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Advisor Group, the nation's largest network of independent wealth management firms, today announced the successful recruitment to its network of Precision Wealth Solutions, a Scarsdale, N.Y.-based wealth management practice with two financial professionals and $121 million in total client assets. Precision Wealth is affiliating with Advisor Group's network member firm Royal Alliance Associates through Affiliated Advisors, a large regional group that supervises 89 financial professionals across the country. Affiliated Advisors' financial professionals collectively oversee over $3 billion in assets. Advisor Group also includes FSC Securities, Securities America, SagePoint Financial, Triad Advisors and Woodbury Financial Services. Founded in 2009 and led by President Frank Chiodi, a 22-year veteran of the wealth management space, Precision Wealth also includes Russell Pinto, a financial professional with 12 years' experience in the industry. The practice specializes in financial planning and retirement planning services for police and firefighter clients. Dmitry Goldin, President and CEO of Royal Alliance, said, "It's my great honor to welcome Frank Chiodi and Russell Pinto to the Royal Alliance family. The support and expertise they can now access at each level of our organization, as well as through Advisor Group and Affiliated Advisors, is second-to-none in the industry, and it will help them serve their clients with even greater effectiveness while elevating the growth of their business. We are thrilled to partner with them as they start the next chapter of their careers." Mr. Chiodi said that having the technology to offer clients a streamlined digital service experience was a key to the decision to join Advisor Group, Royal Alliance and Affiliated Advisors. Mr. Chiodi said, "Many of our clients are first responders who, over their careers, have sacrificed so much to keep us all safe. They deserve a great service experience. For us to serve them better, it was imperative to upgrade our digital platforms and solutions and have access to experts that can help us best leverage technology in all aspects of our business. Advisor Group, Royal Alliance and Affiliated Advisors are the ideal partners to help us raise our game and grow our business." Affiliated Advisors is based in New York and led by Founder and President Rita Robbins, a pioneer of the largest regional office and a well-known wealth management industry thought leader.



Ms. Robbins said, "Frank Chiodi and Russell Pinto have already built a tremendous track record of helping clients reach their financial and life goals, and they are exceptional additions to our team. They are always striving to do more for their clients, investing in themselves and their business to provide the best possible experience for the investors they serve. At Affiliated Advisors, we love working with financial professionals with a desire to develop their capabilities, and Precision Wealth fits that mold." Greg Cornick, Advisor Group's President, Advice & Wealth Management, said, "On behalf of the entire Advisor Group family of firms, we congratulate Royal Alliance and Affiliated Advisors on bringing aboard Precision Wealth Solutions. When we see leading financial professionals such as Frank Chiodi and Russell Pinto choose the Advisor Group platform to facilitate the further growth of their practice, it validates all our efforts to build the infrastructure, processes and expertise that practices across the country need to reach the next level in their businesses. Their success is truly our success, and we are in their corner as they work to reach their full potential."

About Royal Alliance Associates

Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. is part of Advisor Group, the nation's largest network of independent wealth management firms, and a Registered Investment Advisor, member FINRA and SIPC. Royal Alliance has more than 3,000 affiliated independent financial advisors and is headquartered in Jersey City. It was founded in 1969 and employs a client driven approach focused on meeting the unique demands of businesses and individuals. For more information visit https://www.royalalliance.com. About Advisor Group

Advisor Group, Inc. is the nation's largest network of independent wealth management firms, serving approximately 10,100 financial professionals and overseeing over $475 billion in client assets. The firm is mission-driven to support the strategic role that advisors can play in the lives of their clients. Cultivating a spirit of entrepreneurship and independence, Advisor Group champions the enduring value of financial professionals and is committed to being in their corner every step of the way. For more information visit https://www.advisorgroup.com. Securities and investment advisory services are offered through the firms: FSC Securities Corporation, Royal Alliance Associates, Inc., SagePoint Financial, Inc., Triad Advisors, LLC, and Woodbury Financial Services, Inc., broker-dealers, registered investment advisers, and members of FINRA and SIPC. Securities are offered through Securities America, Inc., a broker-dealer and member of FINRA and SIPC. Advisory services are offered through Arbor Point Advisors, LLC, Ladenburg Thalmann Asset Management, Inc., Securities America Advisors, Inc., and Triad Hybrid Solutions, LLC, registered investment advisers. Advisory programs offered by FSC Securities Corporation, Royal Alliance Associates, Inc., SagePoint Financial, Inc., and Woodbury Financial Services, Inc., are sponsored by VISION2020 Wealth Management Corp., an affiliated registered investment adviser. Advisor Group, Inc. is an affiliate of these firms. 20 E. Thomas Rd., Ste. 2000, Phoenix, AZ, 85012. 866.481.0379. Media Inquiries

Joseph Kuo / Chris Clemens

Haven Tower Group

jkuo@haventower.com or cclemens@haventower.com

424 317 4851 or 424 317 4854 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/advisor-group-recruits-precision-wealth-solutions-new-york-area-wealth-management-practice-with-121-million-in-client-assets-301334388.html SOURCE Advisor Group; Royal Alliance

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[July 15, 2021] Outbrain Expands Partnership with Maariv-Jerusalem Post Group

NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Outbrain , a leading recommendation platform for the open web, has signed an extension of its partnership agreement with the Maariv-Jerusalem Post Group for an additional five years. The partnership includes Maariv, The Jerusalem Post, 103FM and Sport1 websites.

As part of the agreement, Outbrain will implement a number of new innovative products that were launched this year, including new video tools for advertisers and an app install experience for developers. The Maariv-Jerusalem Post Group partnership expansion comes after a series of notable agreements signed by Outbrain in the Israeli market in recent months, including Mako, N12, Israel Hayom, th Walla Group, Haaretz-The Marker Group, BizPortal, Srugim, Ice and Bhedrei Haharedim websites.



We welcome the opportunity to deepen the significant partnership between our organizations, said Gidon Uzan, CEO of Maariv. In Outbrain, weve found the ideal partner for the implementation of technological innovation, to continue to provide our readers with interesting and original journalism, 24/7 and to accelerate our monetization. We are excited to extend our long standing partnership with the Maariv-JPost Group, which is at the leading edge of leveraging technology to build user engagement and monetization across their properties, said David Kostman, Co-CEO of Outbrain. This is another level of achievement in a year that has seen significant expansion of our operations in the region.

About Outbrain

Outbrain is a leading recommendation platform for the open web. Our technology enables one-third of the world's online consumers to discover new things through recommendation feeds on their favorite media and connects advertisers to these audiences to grow their business. Outbrain partners with publishers and marketers in more than 55 countries worldwide and is headquartered in New York City, with offices in 18 cities worldwide. MEDIA CONTACT:

Matt LoDolce

mlodolce@outbrain.com



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[July 15, 2021] AllCloud Boosts Data Management and Analytics Capabilities with Acquisition of Integress

DENVER, July 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AllCloud , a leading cloud professional services company, has acquired Integress , a data analytics company, to extend its expertise across cloud data and analytics and further accelerate its clients cloud journeys. Integress founder and CEO, Dave Taddei, is joining AllCloud as SVP, Data and Analytics Practice, North America. Terms of the deal are not being disclosed.

AllCloud is an Amazon Web Services (AWS) Premier Consulting Partner and a Salesforce Platinum Partner. The firm also has an established data and analytics practice in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The acquisition of Integress enables AllCloud to expand its AWS and Salesforce-centric data and analytics capabilities in North America. As AllCloud clients worldwide evolve and grow along their cloud journeys, increasingly they can rely on AllCloud to help unlock value in their data across Salesforce, AWS and other critical systems. Integress has a proven track record of helping clients meet their business outcomes of increased revenue and improved margins, which has been done by making data accessible and actionable through cloud data warehousing, advanced analytics and visualizations. For example, Integress recently helped a transportation logistics company save $2 million by expanding access to data across systems. Integress boasts clients across industries such as healthcare and lifesciences, logistics and transportation, and financial services. In addition, Integress has demonstrated excellence in providing transformative enterprise-level services, including its work with Snowflake, Tableau and Sigma, which naturally aligns with the AWS and Salesforce work AllCloud is conducting currently. The market is almost experiencing the equivalent of a perfect storm said Doug Shepard, President, North America of AllCloud. First of all, the move of organizations to the cloud has been accelerated at a rapid pace over the past 18 months. Secondly, beyond simply moving to the cloud, organizations are appreciating the insights, operational efficiencies and strategic improvements that can be made by properly utilizing their data. Over the last several years, Integress has built an incredible business in this space and has emerged as a true innovation leader. In particular, its deep expertise and experience with Snowflake provides them with unique service offerings. Organizations of all sizes are looking for the services and the scale that the AllCloud and Integress combination will bring through this acquisition.



AllClouds data and analytics practice works hand-in-hand with its Salesforce and AWS practices  not only in terms of lead sharing and opportunities, but also with solution and product integration. The acquisition of Integress will provide an opportunity for further specialization while avoiding silos. As AllClouds global data and analytics practice continues to grow and evolve, there will be numerous opportunities to integrate further, especially between Salesforce, AWS and new partners like Snowflake. Integress has built a significant number of accelerators, which can be used to expand into AWS and Salesforce with data and analytics offerings that further enable organizations in their ability to accelerate their cloud journey. Clients across the spectrum are looking to Integress and AllCloud to provide cloud knowledge and expertise, said Taddei. The combination of offerings and our deep experience in multiple areas, whether it is data and analytics, AWS, Salesforce or Snowflake, will provide better opportunities to meet the full range of client needs.

About Integress Integress is a data analytics company that is focused on helping clients harness their data to make informed and actionable decisions that propel their business forward. With an exceptional team of data analytics experts who bring creativity and passion to every project, Integress helps organizations large and small find opportunities in their data and take advantage of those opportunities to make their business financially stronger, more customer-centric, and gain competitive advantages. As a Snowflake Select Partner, AWS Select Partner, and a partner of Sigma, Fivetran and Matillion, Integresss work includes accelerated analytics strategy & design, business intelligence analytics, machine learning & artificial intelligence, cloud analytics quick start, could data pipeline & integrations, and cloud data warehousing. Integresss customized process and solutions are focused on two core principles: an ability to rapidly begin an engagement and a focus on outcomes. About AllCloud AllCloud is a global professional services company providing organizations with the tools for cloud enablement and transformation. Through a unique combination of expertise and agility, AllCloud accelerates cloud innovation and helps organizations fully unlock the value received from cloud technology. As an AWS Premier Consulting Partner and a Salesforce Platinum Partner, AllCloud helps clients connect their front office and back office by building a new operating model that allows them to harness the benefits of both AWS and Salesforce. AllCloud is supported by a robust ecosystem of technology partners, proven methodologies, and well-documented best practices. Thereby, elevating customers by achieving operational excellence on the cloud, within a secure environment, at every milestone of the journey to becoming cloud-first. With a portfolio of thousands of successful cloud deployments, AllCloud serves clients across the globe. AllCloud has offices in Israel, Europe, and North America. Media contact:

Kevin Wolf

TGPR

kevin@tgprllc.com



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[July 15, 2021] Fortune and Great Place to Work Name HR Acuity One of the 2021 Best Workplaces in New York

FLORHAM PARK, N.J., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- HR Acuity, the leading provider of employee relations and investigations management technology, today announced that it has been named by Fortune magazine and Great Place to Work as one of the 2021 Best Workplaces in New York. The award designation is based on analysis of survey responses from more than 78,000 current employees in the New York State, tri-state and metro area. In that survey, 92% of HR Acuity employees confirmed they encounter a consistently positive employee experience. "As an organization dedicated to creating fairer and safer workplaces, we are thrilled that our employees feel our mission is echoed within our organization," said HR Acuity CEO and founder Deb Muller. "We are grateful to our entire team as each employee plays an integral role in contributing to our culture. I am continually inspired by our employees' dedication to our company, our clients and the wider employee relations community. We are honored to join the ranks of the other organizations selected to this list." The Best Workplaces in New York list is highly competitive. Great Place to Work, the global authority on workplace culture, selected the list using rigorous analytics and confidential employee feedback. Companies were only considered if they are a Great Place to Work-Certified organization. Great Place to Work is the only company culture award in America that selects winners based on how fairly employees are treated. Companies are assessed on how well they are creating a great employee experience that cuts across race, gender, age, disability status, or any aspect of who employees are or what their role is. "Earning a spot on the Best Workplaces in New York list is an especially significant award this year, as the pace and shape of work has changed dramatically," said Michael C. Bush, CEO of Great Place to Work. "Leaders at these companies have showed exceptional care for their people. And this support resonates with all employee groups. It doesn't matter what pronoun they use, their experience level or their pay grade, all people have a great experience."

HR Acuity is a 2020 and 2021 certified Great Place to Work and in 2020 was also named a Fortune Best Small and Medium Workplace. HR Acuity also won four Stevie Awards in 2020  a Gold Award for Business Services Company of the Year, a Silver Award in the International usiness Most Valuable Corporate Response for its response to the COVID-19 pandemic and Bronze Awards for Great Employers and for Female Entrepreneur of the Year for organizations with 11 to 2,500 Employees.



About HR Acuity

While you can't prevent every employee relations issue, you can change how you respond. HR Acuity is the only technology platform specifically built for employee relations and investigations management. HR Acuity's SaaS technology empowers you with built-in intelligence, templates and reporting so you can conduct best practice, fair investigations; uncover trends and patterns through forward-looking data and analytics; and provide trusted, consistent experiences for your people. For more information, Visit www.hracuity.com and follow @hracuity on Twitter and LinkedIn. Link to our Great Place to Work profile: https://www.greatplacetowork.com/certified-company/7024208

About the Best Workplaces in New York

Great Place to Work selected the Best Workplaces in New York by gathering and analyzing confidential survey responses from more than 78,000 employees at Great Place to Work-Certified organizations. Company rankings are derived from 60 employee experience questions within the Great Place to Work Trust Index survey. Read the full methodology. About Great Place to Work

Great Place to Work is the global authority on workplace culture. Since 1992, they have surveyed more than 100 million employees worldwide and used those deep insights to define what makes a great workplace: trust. Their employee survey platform empowers leaders with the feedback, real-time reporting and insights they need to make data-driven people decisions. Everything they do is driven by the mission to build a better world by helping every organization become a great place to work For All. Learn more at greatplacetowork.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Media Contact: Nicole Paleologus

215-478-4815

nicolep@nextpr.com Related Links

https://hracuity.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fortune-and-great-place-to-work-name-hr-acuity-one-of-the-2021-best-workplaces-in-new-york-301333819.html SOURCE HR Acuity

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[July 15, 2021] Wireless Customers Experience Fewer Streaming and Data Problems as Device Usage Soars, J.D. Power Finds

The average U.S. wireless customer now spends 110 minutes per day using their phone, a 5-minute increase from January of this year. Despite the increased usage on everything from streaming audio to browsing content to gaming, the J.D. Power 2021 U.S. Wireless Network Quality Performance Study?-Volume 2, released today, finds that data and streaming problems have decreased. "It's no surprise that customers are spending more time than ever on their phones, but the fact that this increase is occurring without a corresponding increase in cited network quality problems is an encouraging development for the industry," said Ian Greenblatt, managing director at J.D. Power. "Ultimately, what we're seeing is a combination of improvements from carriers and manufacturers and an increasing level of sophistication among consumers when it comes to getting the most from their wireless devices." Study Results Verizon (News - Alert) Wireless ranks highest in all six regions evaluated in the study, achieving the fewest network quality problems per 100 connections (PP100) in call quality; messaging quality; and data quality in the Mid-Atlantic, North Central, Northeast, Southeast, Southwest and West regions. See the rank charts for each region at http://www.jdpower.com/pr-id/2021075. The 2021 U.S. Wirelss Network Quality Performance Study-Volume 2 is based on responses from 32,403 wireless customers. Carrier performance is examined in six regions: Mid-Atlantic, North Central, Northeast, Southeast, Southwest and West. In addition to evaluating the network quality experienced by customers with wireless phones, the study also measures the network performance of tablets and mobile broadband devices. The study was fielded from January through June 2021.



For more information about the U.S. Wireless Network Quality Performance Study, visit

https://www.jdpower.com/business/resource/jd-power-wireless-network-quality-performance-study. About J.D. Power

J.D. Power is a global leader in consumer insights, advisory services and data and analytics. A pioneer in the use of big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithmic modeling capabilities to understand consumer behavior, J.D. Power has been delivering incisive industry intelligence on customer interactions with brands and products for more than 50 years. The world's leading businesses across major industries rely on J.D. Power to guide their customer-facing strategies. J.D. Power has offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more about the company's business offerings, visit JDPower.com/business. The J.D. Power auto shopping tool can be found at JDPower.com. About J.D. Power and Advertising/Promotional Rules: www.jdpower.com/business/about-us/press-release-info View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005111/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Essent Group Ltd. Announces Adolfo Marzol to Serve as Special Advisor to the Chairman and CEO

Essent Group Ltd. (NYSE: ESNT) announced today that Adolfo Marzol will serve as Special Advisor to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "We are very pleased to have Adolfo serve in this advisory role given his extensive background, broad perspective on housing finance and depth and breadth of private and public sector experience," said Mark A. Casale, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "Adolfo played an instrumental role in Essent's founding, and his deep knowledge across housing and mortgage finance will be valuable as we continue to expand and further strengthen our franchise." "I am very pleased to serve as Special Advisor and to contribute to Essent's continued growth and industry leadership," said Marzol. "Mark and the Essent team have built a very successful company and I look forward to influencing strategy and helping the company carry out its vision." Marzol's private sector experience includes senior-level leadership roles at Essent, Fannie Mae and Chase Manhattan Mortgage. Marzol also served in the public sector as Principal Deputy Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency and, prior to that, as Senior Advisr to The Honorable Benjamin S. Carson Sr., the 17th Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development.



About the Company: Essent Group Ltd. (NYSE: ESNT) is a Bermuda-based holding company (collectively with its subsidiaries, "Essent") which, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Essent Guaranty, Inc., offers private mortgage insurance for single-family mortgage loans in the United States. Essent provides private capital to mitigate mortgage credit risk, allowing lenders to make additional mortgage financing available to prospective homeowners. Headquartered in Radnor, Pennsylvania, Essent Guaranty, Inc. is licensed to write mortgage insurance in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, and is approved by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Essent also offers mortgage-related insurance, reinsurance and advisory services through its Bermuda-based subsidiary, Essent Reinsurance Ltd. Essent is committed to supporting environmental, social and governance ("ESG") initiatives that are relevant to the company and align with the companywide dedication to responsible corporate citizenship that positively impacts the community and people served. Additional information regarding Essent may be found at www.essentgroup.com and www.essent.us.

Source (News - Alert) : Essent Group Ltd. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005126/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Vertis Exits Stealth With Industry's First Data Science Solution to Optimize Critical Workforce and Workplace Strategies and Decisions

Vertis, Inc., a high-growth data-science SaaS (News - Alert) company, emerged from stealth mode today, and unveiled the general availability of its "Vertis Market Intelligence Platform"SM, the only platform that leverages billions of data points and proprietary data science to help business leaders implement data-driven people and workplace strategies. The platform delivers dynamic insights to executive, HR, and real estate leaders in high-growth enterprise organizations, allowing them to make accurate, data-driven decisions quickly, and to compete more effectively in today's dynamic, hybrid workplace with its complex labor challenges. The data accessible through the Vertis Market Intelligence Platform enables organizations to make informed decisions about real estate, talent, and workforce expansion. Without the instant recommendations and creative trendspotting provided by Vertis' Market Intelligence Platform, enterprises resort to spending millions of dollars on specialized consultancy projects with prolonged timeframes, only to receive static, outdated information that lacks critical context. "We're excited to officially introduce the Vertis Market Intelligence Platform which enables our customers to bring actionable data to some of the most critical and consequential decisions they make," said Dave Withers, CEO and Co-founder of Vertis. "Our revolutionary, data science-driven platform provides insightful, actionable market intelligence about labor and real estate trends, empowering companies to take giant leaps forward with more effective workforce and workplace strategies." Strategic workplace and data expertise, entrepreneurial success Vertis was founded in June 2020 by an experienced team of serial entrepreneurs and data science experts. The company's co-founders have previously founded and built numerous successful ventures. The senior leadership team also has experience at large enterprises including Dell, EMC, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo (News - Alert) . Vertis's co-founders include: Dave Withers: Chief Executive Officer, is a serial entrepreneur with a 25-year track record as a successful founder and technology executive with numerous successful exits and has also held senior positions at EMC and Dell (News - Alert) post acquisitions.

Sam Hocking: President and Chief Revenue Officer, is a serial fintech/proptech entrepreneur, who has held senior executive leadership positions at BNP Paribas, Bank of America, and others.

Gordy Holterman: Chief Strategy Officer, is an active entrepreneur, former hedge fund manager, and former senior executive at Wells Fargo. Vertis's leadership team is augmented by an Adisory Board composed of industry thought leaders including:



Michael Callahan, a veteran entrepreneur, founding investor at Datadog, founding CEO of Awake Networks (acquired by Arista), founding CTO of PolyServe (acquired by HP) and senior tech executive with an extensive big data background.

Kevin Timmons, a senior technology executive, former CTO at CyrusOne and former GM, Datacenter Services at Microsoft (News - Alert) , who has designed, built and operated some of the world's largest technology infrastructures.

David Kahnweiler, non-Executive Chairman of Colliers International, Chicago.

Doug Holte, a real estate entrepreneur and former President of the Irvine Company, an international real estate development organization.

Jeff Palmucci, a serial entrepreneur with a deep background in machine intelligence who has founded and successfully exited several tech companies. Customers realize immediate value Okta, the world's leading independent identity provider employs more than 3,000 people, with offices in the US, Europe, Australia, and Asia. The company has successfully deployed and leveraged the Vertis Market Intelligence Platform to support blue-sky thinking about requirements affecting the work/life balance of potential recruits, and their propensity to relocate. With data and insights from Vertis, Okta can better understand the complexity of modern labor pools and create corresponding workplace strategies.

"We are a software company, and our greatest assets are our employees," said Armen Vartanian, SVP, Global Workplace Services at Okta. "The pandemic dramatically impacted people's lifestyles, work, and transport preferences. We leveraged Vertis's data insights to ensure we had the right workforce and workplace strategies to support our aggressive growth targets." Data intelligence and insights drive operations in today's hyper-dynamic hybrid workplace The Vertis Market Intelligence Platform delivers intelligence and insights with the following primary capabilities: Access to rich data sources - The platform harnesses data from public and private sources and applies advanced data science techniques to facilitate real-time talent and location decisions.

- The platform harnesses data from public and private sources and applies advanced data science techniques to facilitate real-time talent and location decisions. Insights to accelerate action - The platform brings clarity in minutes, not months. Organizations receive dynamic scoring that guides execution of investments in talent, facilities, and other corporate assets.

- The platform brings clarity in minutes, not months. Organizations receive dynamic scoring that guides execution of investments in talent, facilities, and other corporate assets. Innovation for competitive advantage - The platform helps organizations recruit and build teams that align with their business goals. Accurate, comprehensive data coupled with predictive intelligence enables Vertis customers to get out ahead of competitors, while lowering risks to strategic investments. According to Co-founder, Sam Hocking, "With Vertis powering their market intelligence, enterprise leaders can see holistic trends impacting their business up to the very minute they need them, and make critical investment choices with clarity and conviction, which they've never had before. "This solves for today's hybrid workplace, in which recruitment and real estate markets are hyper-dynamic. Organizations require ongoing adjustments to their labor and workplace strategies based on the highest-quality, most up-to-date data available, collected from the broadest spectrum of data sources if they are to achieve their strategic goals." Availability Vertis delivers its SaaS platform on an annual subscription basis, with no up-front consulting fee or data science expertise required. To learn more about Vertis or to set up a trial, please visit www.vertis.ai. About Vertis Founded in June 2020 by a deeply experienced team of serial entrepreneurs and data science experts, Vertis delivers dynamic insights to executive, human resources and real estate leaders in high-growth enterprises. The Vertis Market Intelligence PlatformSM brings together billions of data points to help business leaders create and execute their talent and location strategies with precision and confidence. Vertis' proprietary intelligence gives customers and strategic partners unparalleled competitive advantages. Follow us on Twitter (News - Alert) @Vertis_AI and LinkedIn or visit www.vertis.ai View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005592/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Venafi Survey: With Software Supply Chain Attacks Escalating, Who is Responsible for Increasing Security?

Venafi, the inventor and leading provider of machine identity management, today announced the findings of a global survey that evaluates the impact of software supply chain attacks like SolarWinds (News - Alert) /SUNBURST, CodeCov and Kaseya/REvil on how development organizations are changing their approach to securing software build and delivery environments. The survey evaluated the opinions of over 1,000 information security professionals, developers and executives in the IT and software development industries. According to Venafi's survey, respondents nearly unanimously agree (97%) that the techniques and procedures used to attack the SolarWinds software development environment will be reused in new attacks this year. Despite this certainty, there is no alignment between security and development teams on which team should be responsible for improving security in the software build and distribution environments. For example, when asked who is primarily responsible for improving the security of their organization's software development environments, 48 percent of respondents say their security teams are responsible and 48 percent say their development teams are responsible. "While the SUNBURST attack on SolarWinds was not the first of its kind, it was certainly one of the most serious so far," said Kevin Bocek, vice president of security strategy and threat intelligence at Venafi. "SUNBURST made it absolutely clear that every organization must take urgent, substantive actions to change the way we secure software build pipelines. The only way to reduce these risks is to dramatically improve the security of the development pipeline and the software it delivers. However, if we can't even agree on who is responsible for taking these actions it's pretty clear that we aren't even close to making meaningful changes. Anyone hoping this problem has been addressed is kidding themselves." Additional survey findings include: 80 percen of respondents say they are not completely confident in their organization's ability to defend against attacks targeting software build environments.

69 percent of developer respondents believe developers are responsible for the security of their organization's software build process. However, 67 percent of security respondents believe it is the security team's responsibility.

When asked who should be responsible for the security of their organization's software build process, 58 percent of security respondents say it should be their responsibility and 53 percent of developer respondents say it should be theirs. Just 8% of all respondents suggested that responsibility should be shared.



For more information, please visit:

Whitepaper: https://www.venafi.com/resource/more-solarwinds-style-attacks-whitepaper About the research Conducted by Dimensional Research, Venafi's survey evaluated the opinions of 1,014 IT professionals worldwide, of which 402 were from IT security professionals, 419 were from developers and 193 were from executives with responsibility for both development and IT security. Respondents were drawn exclusively from companies with more than 100 employees. About Venafi Venafi is the cybersecurity market leader in machine identity management, securing machine-to-machine connections and communications. Venafi protects machine identity types by orchestrating cryptographic keys and digital certificates for SSL/TLS, SSH, code signing, mobile and IoT. Venafi provides global visibility of machine identities and the risks associated with them for the extended enterprise-on premises, mobile, virtual, cloud and IoT-at machine speed and scale. Venafi puts this intelligence into action with automated remediation that reduces the security and availability risks connected with weak or compromised machine identities while safeguarding the flow of information to trusted machines and preventing communication with machines that are not trusted. With more than 30 patents, Venafi delivers innovative solutions for the world's most demanding, security-conscious Global 5000 organizations and government agencies, including the top five U.S. health insurers; the top five U.S. airlines; the top four credit card issuers; three out of the top four accounting and consulting firms; four of the top five U.S. retailers; and the top four banks in each of the following countries: the U.S., the U.K., Australia and South Africa. For more information, visit: www.venafi.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005218/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Keyavi Data Appoints Shai Guday as Chief Product Officer

Keyavi Data Corp., a cybersecurity trailblazer whose breakthrough technology is transforming the very nature of the data security industry, today announced that Shai Guday has joined the company as its first chief product officer, reporting to CEO Elliot Lewis. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005350/en/ Renowned Microsoft (News - Alert) leader Shai Guday joins cybersecurity trailblazer Keyavi Data as its first chief product officer to spearhead strategic next-gen development and delivery of Keyavi's award-winning data security platform, which solves ransomware data exfiltration, data breaches and security issues. (Photo: Business Wire) Guday will spearhead Keyavi's strategic roadmap for next-generation development and delivery of Keyavi's award-winning data security platform, which solves ransomware data exfiltration, data breaches and security issues for employees and their companies in today's hybrid workforce environments. He will also be responsible for establishing new partnerships with resellers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). "Shai's formidable knowledge of what it takes to build and scale disruptive, category-creating technologies and successfully manage virtual, cross-functional teams is tailor-made for our company's hypergrowth trajectory," said Lewis. "His deep strategic, analytical and creative talents are key to accelerating our product and development initiatives as market demand grows for our technology in defeating a rising tide of cyber attacks. Shai was both my manager at Microsoft's Network Security Team/Windows Division and a mentor for half a decade. I'm thrilled to be partnering with him again." Guday comes to Keyavi with a distinguished 35-year track record of world-class program management leadership, product innovation and organizational improvement at global software, networking and telecommunications enterprises. He devoted more than 20 years of his career at Microsoft revolutionizing cloud, cellular, mobile payment and data usage technologies and was a driving force behind the boom in Wi-Fi market demand during the early 2000s. He also helped launch: A multi-billion-dollar ecosystem of advanced wireless technologies such as 5G, Wi-Fi 6, 4G and Long-Term Evolution ( LTE (News - Alert) ) that connected Microsoft's platform for desktops, laptops, tablets and Internet of Things (IoT) devices to the company's Azure cloud.

Innovative location services capable of supporting both outdoor and indoor positioning, thereby enabling Windows devices to quickly identify their location based on GPS, cellular or Wi-Fi signals in their viciity - a technically complex and challenging technology to get right that involved a very broad ecosystem of software vendors, OEMs and independent hardware vendors manufacturing chipsets.

Best practice business processes for highly matrixed virtual teams of software developers, architects, engineers, program managers and sales and marketing employees.



News - Alert) and global video management software provider Milestone Systems. Earlier in his career, Guday served as development manager at CLAM Associates, where he was responsible for leading the design and delivery of IBM's (News - Alert) cluster management product for meeting timeline and quality goals.

At Thinking Machines Corporation, he was the lead software development engineer designing and enabling process snapshots that allowed administrators to freeze and later restore parallel jobs on the company's machines. A prolific inventor and co-inventor, Guday holds more than 35 U.S. technology patents with another 30 patents pending. He also co-authored a book describing the design and internal operations of the distributed Multicomputer Operating System (MOSIX) that integrates a cluster of loosely integrated computers into a virtual single-machine UNIX environment. Originally from Israel, Guday earned dual degrees in computer science and physics as well as a master's degree in distributed operating systems at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Guday joins Keyavi at a critical time in the cybersecurity industry as data leaks, breaches and ransomware attacks escalate while victims' financial and data losses deepen. Cybercrime has grown in size and severity throughout the COVID pandemic as the so-called attack surface - downloadable malware, well-disguised phishing scams, ransomware assaults and distributed denial-of- service attacks - rapidly expanded to insecure mobile devices targeting newly remote workers unaware of basic security measures. Ransomware gangs have recently extracted payments worth millions of dollars from unsuspecting victims by planting malware on their IT systems, then hijacking the data on those systems until the criminals' extortion demands are met. These attackers are also exfiltrating and re-selling the same stolen data to the highest online bidder as well as threatening the victim's customers or third-party suppliers to publicly disclose that same data. "I joined Keyavi to help make the world a safer place from cyber criminals, to build and grow a world-class ecosystem of products, partnerships and people who are just as excited to be on this journey as I am," Guday said. "Knowing that our joint efforts make a positive impact on Keyavi's business, on our customers and the cybersecurity industry is incredibly satisfying. I look forward to adding value and leveraging my expertise in this vital technology sector." Keyavi's technology has proven essential for customers in protecting their data against all forms of digital and cyber attacks as they manage through the COVID pandemic and as their business models become more distributed. Customers of Keyavi's game-changing platform include major companies in hospitality and gaming, technology, financial services, banking, manufacturing, healthcare and insurance. Note to Editors: a headshot of Shai Guday is available for download at www.keyavidata.com/leadership/ About Keyavi Data Corp. Headquartered in Denver, Keyavi's award-winning self-protecting, intelligent and self-aware cybersecurity technology enables an individual piece of data to think for itself, secure itself, refuse access to unauthorized users, stay continually aware of its surroundings and automatically report back to its owner. The company's API platform and a full suite of applications riding on that platform also provide data owners with powerful controls to allow, revoke or deny access to their information - no matter who has it, where it's stored, or how many copies exist. Under development for years before launching in 2020, this multi-patented technology is so unique and innovative that leading industry analyst firm Omdia designated "self-protecting data solutions" as a new cybersecurity industry category, with Keyavi as the clear leader. Keyavi's easy-to-use yet robust solution delivers the ultimate in peace of mind for public and private organizations, their remote workforces and partner ecosystems in solving the security challenges of controlling confidential and intellectual property from data leaks, breaches and ransomware. To learn more about Keyavi and its breakthrough technology, visit https://keyavi.com/our-technology/. Follow Keyavi on LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube and Twitter. Keyavi Data is a trademark of Keyavi Data Corp. All rights reserved. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005350/en/

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[July 15, 2021] PPG Appoints Melissa Wills as Vice President, Finance Administration

PPG (NYSE: PPG) today announced the appointment of Melissa Wills as vice president, finance administration, effective August 1, 2021. Wills will continue to report to PPG senior vice president and chief financial officer (CFO), Vince Morales. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005611/en/ PPG announced the appointment of Melissa Wills as vice president, finance administration, effective August 1, 2021. (Photo: Business Wire) In this newly created role, Wills will continue with her current responsibilities as CFO, Americas, and will add responsibility and oversight of financial administration for PPG's Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and Asia Pacific regions. Wills will draw upon her broad and diverse experiences invarious business finance roles, corporate finance functions, shared financial services and audit to drive efficient and effective business finance support and transactional processing.



Wills has held a variety of roles of increasing responsibility over her career with PPG. She joined PPG in 1989 at the Chillicothe, Ohio, Shared Financial Services Center and later moved into the automotive coatings business, where she held finance and strategic planning leadership roles. Wills was appointed director, global shared financial services, in 2006; director, strategic planning, in 2009; director, finance business process transformation in 2010; and assistant controller in 2011. She became director, corporate audit services in 2013, and was named global finance director, automotive refinish, in 2017. Wills was promoted to CFO of the United States and Canada region in 2018, and assumed her current role as CFO, Americas, adding the Latin America region to her accountability in March 2021. Wills earned a bachelor of science degree at Shawnee State University and a master of business administration degree at Franklin University.

PPG: WE PROTECT AND BEAUTIFY THE WORLD At PPG (NYSE:PPG), we work every day to develop and deliver the paints, coatings and specialty materials that our customers have trusted for more than 135 years. Through dedication and creativity, we solve our customers' biggest challenges, collaborating closely to find the right path forward. With headquarters in Pittsburgh, we operate and innovate in more than 70 countries and reported net sales of $13.8 billion in 2020. We serve customers in construction, consumer products, industrial and transportation markets and aftermarkets. To learn more, visit www.ppg.com. We protect and beautify the world is a trademark and the PPG Logo is a registered trademark of PPG Industries Ohio, Inc. CATEGORY Corporate View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005611/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Next Pathway advances momentum with enhanced cloud migration capabilities and expansion of global strategic partnerships

Leader in Automated Cloud Migration Augments SHIFT Migration Suite, Extends Capabilities to Translate More Legacy Sources, Migrate Complex ETLs and Improve Testing TORONTO, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Next Pathway Inc. , the Automated Cloud Migration company, today announced strong momentum during the past year, driven by the rapid adoption of cloud computing. Companies are migrating legacy applications to the cloud to leverage their current assets while bringing new capabilities to market. To meet this growing need, Next Pathway has made significant enhancements to its product line and expanded its strategic global partnerships. Addressing pent-up demand to migrate to the cloud, Next Pathway has formed strategic partnerships with additional Global System Integrators (GSIs) to deliver a complete migration offering and has licensed SHIFT, its automated migration tool, to leading technology companies such as Informatica. In just the first six months of 2021, Next Pathway has already translated tens of million lines of code and tens of thousands of ETL (extract, transform, load) pipelines. Underpinning all these operational developments is the continuous technical innovation to its cloud migration products: Crawler360, the SHIFT Migration Suite and SHIFT Tester. Enhanced capabilities of these products include:







1) Crawler360. The user interface for planning tool Crawler360 has been enriched to make it easier to see data relationships, dependencies and lineage across applications. Customers can now select which workloads are best suited to migrate to the cloud and which workloads are redundant and can be retired, or should remain on-prem. 2) ETL Migrations to Snowflake. Next Pathway has extended the capabilities of SHIFT to automatically migrate and run legacy ETLs natively in Snowflake using Snowpark. SHIFT can now migrate all legacy ETLs to any cloud-native language. 3) SHIFT Tester. This newest version of SHIFT Tester has been re-engineered with enhanced data validation and test automation capabilities. Beyond verifying the translation of code, SHIFT Tester can now test data quality and ETLs.

Next Pathway has strategically focused its efforts on solving the biggest challenges that organizations face when moving to the cloud. By automating all the key phases in cloud migration  from planning to code translation to testing  Next Pathway eliminates many of the pain points associated with cloud migration. Its technology enables companies to reduce the risk and time investment of moving their data and operations to the cloud, and to accelerate the entire cloud migration journey. "Over the last 12 months we have seen remarkable interest in companies wanting to be more data-driven to meet customer expectations and sustain a competitive advantage," said Chetan Mathur, CEO of Next Pathway. "The move to the cloud is viewed as a strategic imperative to deliver business value. While moving to the cloud isn't easy, and migrations are complex, the end result can deliver so much value when done correctly." Also during this past year, SHIFT technology has been continually recognized by leading industry analysts. Rob Enderle, Principal Analyst at the Enderle Group, said: "With its SHIFT self-service offering, Next Pathway is providing a solution that accelerates the migration process, giving organizations a faster route to realizing value from their data." And Eric Kavanagh, The Bloor Group, noted: "Next Pathway created SHIFT  a code translation engine that enables a remarkably swift and robust transition from traditional on-prem data warehousing to the new reality in the cloud." "We have taken an intentional and tactical approach to enhancing our technology and strengthening our partnerships to service our global customers," added Mathur. "Our roadmap has been influenced by our vast experience migrating millions of lines of complex code, ETL pipelines and applications to the cloud. We will continue to leverage that experience, as well as our passion for innovation, as we help customers around the globe accelerate their migrations to the cloud and realize the benefits that effort brings to their organizations." About Next Pathway Next Pathway is the Automated Cloud Migration company. Powered by Crawler360, the Migration Planner and the SHIFT Migration Suite, Next Pathway automates the end-to-end challenges companies experience when migrating applications to the cloud. For more information, please visit nextpathway.com . Connect with Next Pathway Blog | LinkedIn | Twitter View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/next-pathway-advances-momentum-with-enhanced-cloud-migration-capabilities-and-expansion-of-global-strategic-partnerships-301334680.html SOURCE Next Pathway

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[July 15, 2021] Webull Financial Introduces Fractional Share Trading for Users

NEW YORK, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Webull Financial LLC, an independent, self-directed broker-dealer focused on zero-commission trading and in-depth market data, today announced the launch of fractional share trading. Users can now expand their stock portfolio and buy fractions of their favorite stocks or ETFs for as little as 1/100,000 of a share, or $5.00. The price of equities in the market is often very high, which may have previously dissuaded entry-level investors. Fractional trading enables traders to diversify investments by including more securities from different industries, even if they are not full shares. This new feature allows users to expand stock portfolios to invest in even more companies, with added benefts such as no commission or minimum deposit requirements, and no account management fees or inactivity fees when trading fractional shares. This update includes the same convenient, seamless and easy-to-use interface that Webull users have experienced across the platform, but also the ability to enable users to select a whole or fractional share when placing orders.



"Webull's customers are the heart of our business, and we are thrilled to finally offer fractional share trading, which has been one of the most requested customer demands," said Anthony Denier, CEO of Webull. "We will always continue to innovate our product suite to meet customer demands, and with this rollout, Webull furthers its mission to make trading accessible for all, regardless of account size." Fractional shares are currently available to trade on the mobile platform for Webull users, and this feature will be available on the tablet and desktop apps in the coming weeks. For more information on this offering, please visit https://www.webull.com/fractionalshares.

About Webull Financial Webull Financial LLC is a broker-dealer registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC). The headquarters of Webull Financial LLC is located at 44 Wall Street, New York, NY, USA. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/webull-financial-introduces-fractional-share-trading-for-users-301334284.html SOURCE Webull Financial LLC

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[July 15, 2021] Wipro Limited Announces Results for the Quarter Ended June 30, 2021 Under IFRS

Wipro Limited (NYSE: WIT, BSE: 507685, NSE: WIPRO) today announced financial results under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) for the Quarter ended June 30, 2021. Highlights of the Results Results for the Quarter ended June 30, 2021: Gross Revenue was Rs 182.5 billion ($2.5 billion 1 ), an increase of 12.4% QoQ and 22.4% YoY

), an increase of 12.4% QoQ and 22.4% YoY IT Services Segment Revenue was at $2,414.5 million, an increase of 12.2% QoQ and 25.7% YoY

Non-GAAP 2 constant currency IT Services Segment Revenue increased by 12.0% QoQ and 21.3% YoY

constant currency IT Services Segment Revenue increased by 12.0% QoQ and 21.3% YoY IT Services Operating Margin 3 for the quarter was at 18.8%, a decrease of 29 bps YoY

for the quarter was at 18.8%, a decrease of 29 bps YoY Net Income for the quarter was Rs 32.3 billion ($434.8 million 1 ), an increase of 35.2% YoY

), an increase of 35.2% YoY Earnings Per Share for the quarter was at Rs 5.92 ($0.08 1 ), an increase of 41.0% YoY

), an increase of 41.0% YoY Operating Cash Flow was at Rs 33.5 billion ($451.1 million 1 ), which is 103.7% of Net Income

), which is 103.7% of Net Income Our IT Services workforce crossed the milestone of 200K, closing headcount at 209,890

In June 2021, we issued our first ever dollar denominated bond offering of $750 million with a 5-year tenor Performance for the quarter ended June 30, 2021 Thierry Delaporte, CEO and Managing Director said, "Despite the severe onslaught of the pandemic, we delivered our best-ever quarter, with secular growth across all SMUs, Sectors and GBLs. Our sequential revenue growth of 12.2% was well ahead of the top-end of our guidance range, both organically and with Capco. Though in the early days yet, I am pleased with the way we have collaborated with Capco to build our joint go-to-market offerings and strategy. We remain focused on deepening our customer relationships, investing in talent & capabilities for the future, and winning market share." Jatin Dalal, Chief Financial Officer said, "We delivered a robust growth in EPS of 41% YoY even as we continued to invest for growth. At 103.7% of our net income, our operating cash flows for the quarter remained healthy. I am also pleased to share that we have successfully issued our debut bond offering in the international markets for $750 million." Outlook for the quarter ending September 30, 2021 We expect Revenue from our IT Services business to be in the range of $2,535 million to $2,583 million*. This translates to a sequential growth of 5.0% to 7.0%. Wipro signed an agreement to acquire Ampion on April 1, 2021, and we previously announced that it will be closed during Q1'22. However certain regulatory approvals are still pending and the transaction is now expected to be closed in Q2'22. *Outlook is based on the following exchange rates: GBP/USD at 1.40, Euro/USD at 1.21, AUD/USD at 0.77, USD/INR at 73.79 and CAD/USD at 0.81 For the convenience of the readers, the amounts in Indian Rupees in this release have been translated into United States Dollars at the certified foreign exchange rate of US$1 = Rs 74.33, as published by the Federal Reserve Board of Governors on June 30, 2021. However, the realized exchange rate in our IT Services business segment for the quarter ended June 30, 2021 was US$1= Rs 74.75 Constant currency revenue for a period is the product of volumes in that period times the average actual exchange rate of the corresponding comparative period IT Services Operating Margin refers to Segment Results Total as reflected in IFRS financials IT Services Wipro continued its momentum in winning large deals with our customers as described below: Wipro has won a multi-year engagement with a leading US-based communication services provider to deliver end-to-end quality engineering (QE) services for their applications, accelerating software release velocity and improving QE maturity. Additionally, the customer has selected Wipro to support database operations in a managed services model. Wipro will drive migration to new age databases and enhance operational efficiencies through automation

A US based oil field services company has awarded Wipro a strategic IT outsourcing contract to provide applications, infrastructure, & cybersecurity services. Wipro will also assist the customer in digital transformation projects including modernizing the IT operations, reducing IT operating cost, and improving IT services experience for end users to enable scalable services in a changing energy industry

A European multinational pharmaceutical company has awarded Wipro a multi-million-dollar engagement to personalize end user services leveraging digital interventions to ensure superior consumer experience for their employees globally

Wipro has won a large digital workplace contract from a US-based health insurance company to transform and manage their end user services globally to improve customer experience centered around a digital-first theme

A leading multinational electric and gas utility provider has awarded Wipro a global strategic IT infrastructure contract. The engagement will enhance the customer's digital transformation journey, leveraging integrated managed services and consolidating multiple data centers to next-generation hosting services, through Wipro's Boundaryless Enterprise solutions Digital Services Highlights We continue to see increasing traction in digital oriented and other strategic deals as illustrated below: A leading US-based distributor of plumbing supplies has selected Wipro to support its cloud transformation journey by embedding quality engineering in the development lifecycle encompassing CRM implementation, data migration, and legacy applications. Additionally, Wipro will provide managed services for Cloud ERP covering multiple business functions, resulting in improved business agility and enhancing customer experience across more than 1,400 store locations

A global shipping and logistics company has engaged Wipro for the digital transformation and modernization of its integrated shipping portfolio. The engagement will make it easier for the end customers to integrate their services, while providing improved reliability and speed, thus enabling the client to compete in the global e-commerce market

Wipro has won a strategic engagement with a leading US-based financial services company to accelerate their digital transformation journey by implementing an outcome-based high velocity software engineering model enabled by multi-skilled agile teams deployed globally

A globally integrated energy company has selected Wipro's crowdsourcing platform Topcoder to design their next-generation customer-centric experience for promotion and loyalty management. Topcoder's on-demand community will help accelerate product development, applying experience design to enable scale and expansion of the digital product globally

A leading US-based medical devices original equipment manufacturer (OEM) has selected Wipro to build and launch a global patient engagement platform encompassing their cardiac rhythm management portfolio of devices Analyst Recognition Wipro was positioned as a Leader in IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Supply Chain SAP Ecosystems Services 2021 Vendor Assessment (Doc #US47537120, Mar 2021)

Wipro was positioned as a Leader in IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Smart Manufacturing Service Providers 2021 Vendor Assessment (Doc #EUR147689021, Jun 2021)

Wipro was positioned as a Leader in IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Artificial Intelligence Services 2021 Vendor Assessment ( Doc #US46741921, May 2021)

Wipro was recognized as a Leader in Everest Group's IT Managed Security Services PEAK Matrix Assessment 2021

Wipro was recognized as a Leader and Star Performer in Everest Group's Life Sciences Operations Services PEAK Matrix Assessment 2021

Wipro was positioned as a Leader in Everest Group's Application and Digital Services in Banking PEAK Matrix Assessment 2021

Wipro was rated as a Leader in ISG Provider Lens ServiceNow Ecosystem Partners 2021: Implementation & Integration Services and Managed Services Providers - US

Wipro was rated as a Leader in ISG Provider Lens Microsoft Ecosystem 2021: Managed Services for Azure, SAP on Azure, Dynamics 365 and Office 365 Modern Workplace - US

Wipro ranks among the Top Service Providers in Customer Satisfaction Category in Whitelane & PA Consulting UK IT Outsourcing Study 2021 Disclaimer: Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. IT Products IT Products Segment Revenue for the quarter was Rs 1.3 billion ($17.6 million 1 )

) IT Products Segment Results for the quarter was a loss of Rs 0.1 billion ($0.7 million1) India business from State Run Enterprises (ISRE) India SRE Segment Revenue for the quarter was Rs 1.9 billion ($26.1 million 1 )

) India SRE Segment Results for the quarter was a profit of Rs 0.5 billion ($6.4 million1) Please refer to the table at the end for reconciliation between IFRS IT Services Revenue and IT Services Revenue on a non-GAAP constant currency basis. About Non-GAAP Financial Measures This press release contains non-GAAP financial measures within the meaning of Regulation G and Item 10(e) of Regulation S-K. Such non-GAAP financial measures are measures of our historical or future performance, financial position or cash flows that are adjusted to exclude or include amounts that are excluded or included, as the case may be, from the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and presented in accordance with IFRS. The table at the end provides IT Services Revenue on a constant currency basis, which is a non-GAAP financial measure that is calculated by translating IT Services Revenue from the current reporting period into U.S. dollars based on the currency conversion rate in effect for the prior reporting period. We refer to growth rates in constant currency so that business results may be viewed without the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, thereby facilitating period-to-period comparisons of our business performance. Further, in the normal course of business, we may divest a portion of our business which may not be strategic. We refer to the growth rates in both reported and constant currency adjusting for such divestments in order to represent the comparable growth rates. This non-GAAP financial measure is not based on any comprehensive set of accounting rules or principles and should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, the most directly comparable financial measure calculated in accordance with IFRS and may be different from non-GAAP measures used by other companies. In addition to this non-GAAP measure, the financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS and the reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures with the most directly comparable IFRS financial measure should be carefully evaluated. Results for the quarter ended June 30, 2021, prepared under IFRS, along with individual business segment reports, are available in the Investors section of our website www.wipro.com Quarterly Conference Call We will hold an earnings conference call today at 07:15 p.m. Indian Standard Time (09:45 a.m. U.S. Eastern Time) to discuss our performance for the quarter. The audio from the conference call will be available online through a web-cast and can be accessed at the following link- https://links.ccwebcast.com/?EventId=WIPRO210415 An audio recording of the management discussions and the question-and-answer session will be available online and will be accessible in the Investor Relations section of our website at www.wipro.com About Wipro Limited Wipro Limited (NYSE: WIT, BSE: 507685, NSE: WIPRO) is a leading global information technology, consulting and business process services company. We harness the power of cognitive computing, hyper-automation, robotics, cloud, analytics and emerging technologies to help our clients adapt to the digital world and make them successful. A company recognized globally for its comprehensive portfolio of services, strong commitment to sustainability and good corporate citizenship, we have over 200,000 dedicated employees serving clients across six continents. Together, we discover ideas and connect the dots to build a better and a bold new future. Forward-Looking Statements The forward-looking statements contained herein represent Wipro's beliefs regarding future events, many of which are by their nature, inherently uncertain and outside Wipro's control. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding Wipro's growth prospects, its future financial operating results, and its plans, expectations and intentions. Wipro cautions readers that the forward-looking statements contained herein are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results anticipated by such statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties regarding fluctuations in our earnings, revenue and profits, our ability to generate and manage growth, complete proposed corporate actions, intense competition in IT services, our ability to maintain our cost advantage, wage increases in India, our ability to attract and retain highly skilled professionals, time and cost overruns on fixed-price, fixed-time frame contracts, client concentration, restrictions on immigration, our ability to manage our international operations, reduced demand for technology in our key focus areas, disruptions in telecommunication networks, our ability to successfully complete and integrate potential acquisitions, liability for damages on our service contracts, the success of the companies in which we make strategic investments, withdrawal of fiscal governmental incentives, political instability, war, legal restrictions on raising capital or acquiring companies outside India, unauthorized use of our intellectual property and general economic conditions affecting our business and industry. Additional risks that could affect our future operating results are more fully described in our filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, Annual Reports on Form 20-F. These filings are available at www.sec.gov. We may, from time to time, make additional written and oral forward-looking statements, including statements contained in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and our reports to shareholders. We do not undertake to update any forward-looking statement that may be made from time to time by us or on our behalf.







WIPRO LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION (Rs in millions, except share and per share data, unless otherwise stated) As at March 31, 2021 As at June 30, 2021 Convenience translation into

US dollar in millions Refer footnote 1 ASSETS Goodwill 139,127 223,485 3,007 Intangible assets 13,085 43,029 579 Property, plant and equipment 85,192 86,720 1,167 Right-of-Use assets 16,420 19,804 266 Financial assets Derivative assets 16 17 ^ Investments 10,576 11,024 148 Trade receivables 4,358 4,392 59 Other financial assets 6,088 8,248 111 Investments accounted for using the equity method 1,464 709 10 Deferred tax assets 1,664 2,743 37 Non-current tax assets 14,323 11,099 149 Other non-current assets 15,935 11,795 159 Total non-current assets 308,248 423,065 5,692 Inventories 1,064 945 13 Financial assets Derivative assets 4,064 2,458 33 Investments 175,707 167,034 2,247 Cash and cash equivalents 169,793 140,617 1,892 Trade receivables 94,298 104,377 1,404 Unbilled receivables 27,124 33,663 453 Other financial assets 7,245 8,670 117 Contract assets 16,507 20,052 270 Current tax assets 2,461 4,587 62 Other current assets 24,923 25,966 349 Total current assets 523,186 508,369 6,840 TOTAL ASSETS 831,434 931,434 12,532 EQUITY Share capital 10,958 10,958 147 Share premium 714 740 10 Retained earnings 466,692 498,003 6,700 Share-based payment reserve 3,071 3,884 52 SEZ Re-investment reserve 41,154 42,297 569 Other components of equity 30,506 33,785 455 Equity attributable to the equity holders of the Company 553,095 589,667 7,933 Non-controlling interests 1,498 1,095 15 TOTAL EQUITY 554,593 590,762 7,948 LIABILITIES Financial liabilities Loans and borrowings 7,458 55,392 745 Lease liabilities 13,513 15,862 213 Other financial liabilities 2,291 3,349 45 Deferred tax liabilities 4,633 14,367 193 Non-current tax liabilities 11,069 11,083 149 Other non-current liabilities 7,835 10,082 136 Provisions 2 1 ^ Total non-current liabilities 46,801 110,136 1,481 Financial liabilities Loans, borrowings and bank overdrafts 75,874 60,105 809 Derivative liabilities 1,070 1,218 16 Trade payables and accrued expenses 78,870 88,941 1,197 Lease liabilities 7,669 8,811 119 Other financial liabilities 1,470 4,091 55 Contract liabilities 22,535 21,153 286 Current tax liabilities 17,324 18,088 243 Other current liabilities 24,552 27,450 369 Provisions 676 679 9 Total current liabilities 230,040 230,536 3,103 TOTAL LIABILITIES 276,841 340,672 4,584 TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 831,434 931,434 12,532 ^ Value is less than 1

WIPRO LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME (Rs in millions, except share and per share data, unless otherwise stated) Three months ended June 30, 2020 2021 2021 Convenience translation

into US dollar in millions Refer footnote 1 Revenues 149,131 182,524 2,456 Cost of revenues (103,700 ) (127,567 ) (1,716 ) Gross profit 45,431 54,957 740 Selling and marketing expenses (9,789 ) (13,017 ) (175 ) General and administrative expenses (10,006 ) (10,530 ) (142 ) Foreign exchange gains/(losses), net 1,205 1,160 16 Other operating income/(loss), net 97 2,150 29 Results from operating activities 26,938 34,720 468 Finance expenses (1,299 ) (746 ) (10 ) Finance and other income 5,281 4,619 62 Share of net profit of associates accounted for using the equity method 31 7 ^ Profit before tax 30,951 38,600 520 Income tax expense (6,838 ) (6,225 ) (84 ) Profit for the period 24,113 32,375 436 Profit attributable to: Equity holders of the Company 23,902 32,321 435 Non-controlling interests 211 54 1 Profit for the period 24,113 32,375 436 Earnings per equity share: Attributable to equity holders of the Company Basic 4.20 5.92 0.08 Diluted 4.19 5.90 0.08 Weighted average number of equity shares used in computing earnings per equity share Basic 5,693,348,171 5,462,996,981 5,462,996,981 Diluted 5,703,168,248 5,476,992,662 5,476,992,662 ^ Value is less than 1 Additional Information: Particulars Three months ended Year ended June 30,

2021 March 31,

2021 June 30,

2020 March 31,

2021 Audited Audited Audited Audited Revenue IT Services Americas 1 49,683 46,510 42,612 178,091 Americas 2 55,105 46,475 44,194 179,821 Europe 54,461 45,107 38,944 165,441 APMEA 21,232 20,825 20,158 82,462 Total of IT Services 180,481 158,917 145,908 605,815 IT Products 1,311 2,117 2,306 7,685 ISRE 1,937 2,302 2,111 8,912 Reconciling Items (45 ) 4 11 13 Total Revenue 183,684 163,340 150,336 622,425 Other operating income/(loss), net IT Services 2,150 - 97 (81 ) Total Other operating income/(loss), net 2,150 - 97 (81 ) Segment Result IT Services Americas 1 9,379 9,863 6,504 33,040 Americas 2 11,350 10,500 10,422 41,589 Europe 8,325 8,704 7,547 31,673 APMEA 3,066 3,074 2,546 11,476 Unallocated 56 1,257 748 5,153 Other operating income/(loss), net 2,150 - 97 (81 ) Total of IT Services 34,326 33,398 27,864 122,850 IT Products (53 ) 145 123 45 ISRE 475 587 (106 ) 1,061 Reconciling Items (28 ) 37 (943 ) (903 ) Total 34,720 34,167 26,938 123,053 Finance expenses (746 ) (1,122 ) (1,299 ) (5,088 ) Finance and Other Income 4,619 4,447 5,281 20,912 Share of net profit of associates accounted for using the equity method 7 4 31 130 Profit before tax 38,600 37,496 30,951 139,007 The Company is organized into the following operating segments: IT Services, IT Products and India State Run Enterprise segment (ISRE). IT Services: As announced on November 12, 2020, effective January 1, 2021, the Company re-organized IT Services segment to four Strategic Market Units ("SMUs") - Americas 1, Americas 2, Europe and Asia Pacific Middle East Africa ("APMEA"). Americas 1 and Americas 2 are primarily organized by industry sector, while Europe and APMEA are organized by countries. Americas 1 includes Healthcare and Medical Devices, Consumer Goods and Lifesciences, Retail, Transportation and Services, Communications, Media and Information services, Technology Products and Platforms, in the United States of America and entire business of Latin America ("LATAM"). Americas 2 includes Banking, Financial Services and Insurance, Manufacturing, Hi-tech, Energy and Utilities industry sectors in the United States of America and entire business of Canada. Europe consists of United Kingdom and Ireland, Switzerland, Germany, Benelux, Nordics and Southern Europe. APMEA consists of Australia and New Zealand, India, Middle East, South East Asia, Japan and Africa. IT Products: The Company is a value-added reseller of desktops, servers, notebooks, storage products, networking solutions and packaged software for leading international brands. In certain total outsourcing contracts of the IT Services segment, the Company delivers hardware, software products and other related deliverables. Revenue relating to the above items is reported as revenue from the sale of IT Products. India State Run Enterprise segment (ISRE): This segment consists of IT Services offerings to entities/ departments owned or controlled by the Government of India and/ or any State Governments. Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Constant Currency IT Services Revenue to IT Services Revenue as per IFRS ($Mn) Three Months ended June 30, 2021 IT Services Revenue as per IFRS $ 2,414.5 Effect of Foreign currency exchange movement $ (4.5 ) Non-GAAP Constant Currency IT Services Revenue based on previous quarter exchange rates $ 2,410.0 Three Months ended June 30, 2021 IT Services Revenue as per IFRS $ 2,414.5 Effect of Foreign currency exchange movement $ (83.8 ) Non-GAAP Constant Currency IT Services Revenue based on exchange rates of comparable period in previous year $ 2,330.6 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005687/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Flutura inducts luminaries from Shell & TechnipFMC into Strategic Advisory Board

HOUSTON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Flutura Decision Sciences and Analytics, an Industrial AI company that impacts Yield, Uptime and Sustainability outcomes for large scale industrial facilities, just announced the inclusion of industry stalwarts Robert Patterson, Brad Beitler, Robert Orlean and Scott Blanchard, into their strategic advisory board. Mr. Patterson enjoyed a 33-year career in Research, Engineering and Project Delivery with Shell, where he served as Executive Vice President of Engineering responsible for the engineering capability, capacity, standards, and associated technical assurance. Mr. Beitler is a 45+ year veteran of the international energy industry and served as the Executive Vice President of Technology and R&D and an Officer of TechnipFMC where he implemented and led the global technology and innovation straegy of the Company, ensuring alignment with TechnipFMC's strategic direction and assuring that their leadership role in the industry was maintained.



Mr. Robert Orlean is the founder of Orlean Technical Solutions, a company that serves major oil companies, major equipment surface and subsea oil and gas suppliers, drilling and construction contractors on their technical innovation needs. Prior to founding Orlean Technical Solutions, Robert worked for Shell Oil Company where he held a variety of leadership roles in engineering, management and research. Mr. Blanchard played several roles in his illustrious 33+ years with Shell in Heavy Oil, Deepwater, and Unconventionals. Most recently he led Shell's move in Enterprise Architecture and the digitalization transformation for production operations as part of Shell's prestigious iShale program. Scott was also part of several global executive decision review boards influencing Shell's digitalization across all lines of business.

Flutura's Chairperson, Radha Rajappa said, "We welcome Mr. Robert Patterson, Mr. Brad Beitler, Mr. Scott Blanchard and Mr. Robert Orlean to our strategic advisory board. As we accelerate our journey towards leadership in Industrial AI and meeting our vision to deliver 1 billion USD of outcomes to our customers by 2024, Robert, Brad, Scott and Robert Orlean's leadership and industry perspective will bring tremendous value to Flutura." About Flutura Business Solutions LLC Flutura is a pioneer in the Industrial Artificial Intelligence space having operations in Palo Alto, Houston and Bangalore. Its Cerebra IOT Intelligence solution provides diagnostics and prognostics solutions for equipment and process operations, unlocking new business value for many leading engineering and energy customers. To learn more about Flutura, please visit http://www.flutura.com Media Contact:

Jigar Doshi

Jigar.doshi@flutura.com

+1 832 677 4382

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/flutura-inducts-luminaries-from-shell--technipfmc-into-strategic-advisory-board-301334741.html SOURCE Flutura Business Solutions Pvt Ltd

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[July 15, 2021] Black & Veatch Management Consulting, Copperleaf Form Strategic Alliance to Deliver Electric, Gas Grid Investment Planning Capabilities

As renewable energy and storage assets create increasingly complex grid infrastructure management challenges, Black & Veatch Management Consulting, LLC and Copperleaf announce a new alliance that provides electric and gas utilities greater ability to manage critical infrastructure. Using a robust, highly replicable software-backed solution in grid asset investment planning and optimization, clients will get a consistent, transparent and quantitative way to make complex trade-off decisions and develop mid- and long-term investment strategies. This alliance will support utilities in achieving their strategic goals related to reliability, resiliency, grid modernization, customer service, safety and other key strategic objectives under a consistent value framework. Copperleaf's Decision Analytics Solution and Black & Veatch (News - Alert) Management Consulting's global expertise in asset data analytics, risk scoring, cost and impact analyses will help utilities leverage operational, financial and asset data to ensure investment decisions deliver the highest business value. "Our alliance with Black & Veatch further enables electric and gas utilities to break down traditional siloes in investment planning," said Garrett Sizer, Copperleaf's strategic alliances director. "Black & Veatch's expertise in the full asset lifecycle, along with their experience developing cost-benefit analysis, will undoubtedly yield faster adoption of Copperleaf solutions. This alliance already has proven to have the ability to help utilities compare diverse projects with competing objectives on a common scale, ultimately driving improved planning efficiency, higher value and more justifiable investment plans." "With Copperleaf, we are positioned to provide a critical service to utilities and companies challenged with collecting and analyzing data to make informed grid investment decisions," said Joe Zhou, associate vice president and senior managing director at Black & Veatch Management Consulting. "We expect his joint solution to quickly become an integrated best practice for utilities seeking to streamline their capital and O&M budgeting processes, as well as to bolster their regulatory justification for such investments."



Editor's Notes: To learn more about Black & Veatch Management Consulting, click here.

The infrastructure modernization practice provides strategy and technical expertise to drive the modernization of energy infrastructure.

Follow our Black & Veatch Management Consulting conversations on LinkedIn. About Black & Veatch

Black & Veatch is an employee-owned global engineering, procurement, consulting, and construction company with a more than 100-year track record of innovation in sustainable infrastructure. Since 1915, we have helped our clients improve the lives of people around the world by addressing the resilience and reliability of our most important infrastructure assets. Our revenues in 2020 exceeded US$3.0 billion. Follow us on www.bv.com and on social media. About Black & Veatch Management Consulting, LLC Black & Veatch Management Consulting, LLC provides integrated strategy, transaction advisory, business operations, regulatory, asset management and technology solutions for the global power, water, oil and gas, telecommunications and non-traditional industries. Our highly experienced team of professional consultants combines expertise in advanced analytics and business integration services backed by extensive technology and engineering capabilities. We deliver solutions ranging from business strategy and transformation, to program design and implementation, transaction due diligence and valuation to asset risk management, infrastructure modernization and customer service value enhancement. About Copperleaf Copperleaf provides enterprise decision analytics software solutions to companies managing critical infrastructure. We leverage operational and financial data to empower our clients to make investment decisions that deliver the highest business value. What sets us apart is our commitment to providing extraordinary experiences, shaped by people who care deeply, products that deliver exceptional value, and partnerships that stand the test of time. Copperleaf is a patron of The Institute of Asset Management and actively participates in shaping the future of asset management standards, including ISO 55000. Headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, our solutions are distributed and supported by regional staff and partners worldwide. Together, we are transforming how the world sees value. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005175/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Mutual of Omaha Employee Assistance Program Offers Online Service Request Form

Employees enrolled in Mutual of Omaha's Employee Assistance Program now have two ways to request EAP services. In addition to a 1-800 number, employees now have access to an Online Service Request Form on the EAP website to request services. Once an employee submits a request for services, an EAP professional will respond in a timely manner. That means employees can spend less time worrying about the challenges in their lives and continue to be the productive workers that their employers know and trust. For over 25 years, Mutual of Omaha's in-house EAP has been staffed by licensed, master's level counselors. The company's exclusive provider network and personalized provider matching allows customers to quickly get the help they need. With increased mental health awareness, Employee Assistance Programs continue to grow in popularity and demand. Mutual of Omaha is continuously exploring additional resources for employers who want to help their employees personlly and professionally.



"At Mutual of Omaha, we are continually working to improve our customers' experience by listening to understand their needs," said Kurtis Stewart, Senior Vice President of Underwriting, Workplace Solutions at Mutual of Omaha. "With the new ways to reach our EAP team, we're responding to those needs with improvements that will make getting the help an employee needs, simple and convenient." For more online EAP resources, visit www.mutualofomaha.com/eap

Founded in 1909, Mutual of Omaha is a highly-rated, Fortune 500 organization offering a variety of insurance and financial products for individuals, businesses and groups throughout the United States. As a mutual company, Mutual of Omaha is owned by its policyholders and committed to providing outstanding service to its customers. For more information about Mutual of Omaha, visit www.mutualofomaha.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005775/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Alkaline Fuel Cell Power Corp. to Commence Trading on NEO Exchange Under Ticker 'PWWR'

Trading of common shares on NEO Exchange under ticker PWWR to begin July 16, 2021



Innovative zero-emission solution to meet growing global demand for clean energy

Hydrogen-power alkaline fuel cell technology poised to offer both environmental and economic benefits

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, July 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Alkaline Fuel Cell Power Corp. (NEO: PWWR) ("Fuel Cell Power" or the "Company"), formerly known as Black Isle Resources Corporation, a company focused on the design, development and commercialization of alkaline fuel cell heat and power systems for residential, industrial and commercial markets worldwide, is pleased to announce it will begin trading tomorrow, July 16, 2021, as a result of a direct listing of the Company on the NEO Exchange Inc. (the "NEO" or the NEO Exchange) under the symbol PWWR. For more information on Fuel Cell Power, please refer to the Companys Listing Statement filed on July 14, 2021, and available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. "Today represents a critical milestone as we execute on our strategy to commercialize the Companys competitive hydrogen fuel cell technology solution and help to meet the worlds increasing demand for cleaner energy sources," said Fuel Cell Powers CEO, Jef Spaepen. "We believe our NEO listing will enable us to increase market visibility, enhance liquidity, diversify our shareholder base and offer exposure to a growing company focused on positively contributing to the decarbonization of global markets." Introducing Fuel Cell Power As global demand grows for cost-effective, clean energy solutions, investors are also seeking opportunities that support positive environmental, social and governance (ESG) narratives. Fuel Cell Powers alkaline technology is proven in marine, mobile and standby applications and its innovative system design is based on lower cost inputs which are expected to support mass manufacturing and widespread adoption, particularly in Europe. The Companys management team brings a solid track record and decades of industry experience. The Company is focused on the development, production and ultimate commercialization of micro-combined heat and power (micro-CHP) systems based on alkaline fuel cell technology. A fuel cell is a clean electrical power conversion/generation system and represents small power stations that provide electricity and an equivalent amount of heat for various purposes. There are numerous advantages to Fuel Cell Powers technology, including: design enhances the systems repeatability and reliability, overcoming obstacles inherent in other renewable energy sources;

fuel cell power generation potential with low implementation costs not seen by industry to date;

no combustion means zero emissions with pure water as the only by-product;

virtually silent process and no vibration makes system ideal for residential use;

compact size is equivalent to conventional modern natural gas boilers; and opportunity to advance ESG targets and commitments.



electric vehicle charging stations;

back-up power for telecommunications systems such as cell towers;

information technology equipment;

point of sale and banking terminals;

back-up power for mission critical applications such as hospitals; and

temporary power needs such as construction sites, outdoor events, search and rescue or military operations. Fuel Cell Power intends to pursue development partnerships with universities and other research institutes as well as early stage commercial partners, and aims to become eligible for European Government support under the Green Deal Initiative. Fuel Cell Power believes that its hydrogen power alkaline fuel cell technology, once developed, will offer both environmental and economic benefits.

About Alkaline Fuel Cell Power Corp. The Company is focused on the development, production and ultimate commercialization of micro-combined heat and power (micro-CHP) systems based on alkaline fuel cell technology. A fuel cell is a clean electrical power conversion/generation system, akin to small power stations that provide electricity and an equivalent amount of heat for various purposes. Based on hydrogen powered alkaline fuel cell technology, our technology offers an energy source that generates zero CO 2 emissions with pure water as the only by-product, making it ideally suited for residential and small- to medium-sized power markets. We believe Fuel Cell Power is well positioned to become a positive contributor to the global demand for clean energy, particularly in Europe where demand outpaces supply, and current technology remains inadequate to meet market needs. Further information is available on our website at https://www.fuelcellpower.com/ and on our SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. We encourage investors and other interested stakeholders to follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Our common shares are listed for trading on the NEO Exchange under the symbol PWWR. For further information, please contact: Gerard Sauer

Chairman of the Advisory Board Designate

+3214574648

info@fuelcellpower.com Cindy Gray

Investor Relations

+1 (403) 705-5076

info@5qir.com Forward-Looking Information This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements relate to future events or future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements or information. In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as plans, expects or does not expect, is expected, estimates, forecasts, intends, anticipates, believes or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, might, occur or achieve. Forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the Companys technology, intellectual property, business plan, objectives and strategy. Forward-looking statements and information are provided for the purpose of providing information about the current expectations and plans of management of the Company relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such statements and information may not be appropriate for other purposes, such as making investment decisions. Since forward-looking statements and information address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and no undertaking is given to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. NEITHER THE NEO EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE NEO EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.



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[July 15, 2021] Luvera Law Firm Announces Jury Verdict Against University of Washington Medical Center Upheld, Ending University's Extended Legal Battle Against Injured Patient

In 2019, a jury rendered a $1.48 million verdict against the State of Washington's University of Washington Medical Center (UWMC) for not training its staff on its own safe patient handling policy, resulting in injury to a patient with a disability who was physically lifted onto an examination table. Rather than pay the verdict, the State of Washington chose to appeal the jury's decision, dragging out the arduous process its patient has endured in seeking accountability and compensation for her injuries. Nearly two years later, the Washington State Court of Appeals has now upheld the verdict, finally providing a resolution for patient Missy Kurtz. "By appealing this verdict, the UWMC chose to continue to pour money and resources into avoiding responsibility and fighting the jury verdict in favor of a patient with a disability, which is particularly troubling in light of the global pandemic that has already strained our state and healthcare systems," said John Gagliardi of Luvera Law Firm, one of the attorneys representing Kurtz. "The public should be aware of the significant taxpayer dollars devoted by the State of Washington to avoid legal responsibility for this patient's injury at UWMC, including its costly and unsuccessful efforts to blame its own disabled patient." Kurtz suffers from osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) or "brittle bone disease," a rare genetic disorder that results in bones that break easily and often do not heal. She has used a wheelchair her entire life, and prior to her injury at the UW, was able to lead a relatively full life, where she drove and took care of most tasks by herself. Now, Kurtz's independence is severely limited. In 2015, Kurtz visited the UWMC for an outpatient echocardiogram. Although required by state law to adopt, implement and train all of its health care providers on a written policy for safe patient handling, the UWMC technicians assisting Kurtz were unaware of the policy, and had no specific training on physically lifting or assisting disabled persons from a wheelchair to an exam table when the table was too high for the patient to access on their own. Additionally, a lower table or gurney was not made available for Kurtz to accomplish self-transfer. As a result, the UW technicians attempted to pysically lift Kurtz onto the exam table, breaking her left arm in the process. Kurtz's left arm was the dominant limb she used to transfer in and out of her wheelchair and maintain an active life, and the fracture never fully healed.



"UWMC's negligence has significantly altered Missy's life and limited her independence - all of which could have been prevented, had its staff been trained appropriately," Gagliardi said. "This was a flagrant disregard for even the most basic standards of care, violating not only the Washington State safe patient handling law but also the UWMC's very own Safe Patient Handling Policy." "This is exactly the sort of accident that can be avoided by staff training on policies," added Gagliardi. "At the end of the day, UWMC was so glaringly unprepared for Missy's visit that they relied on her to offer up suggestions on how to handle her care."

In this case, UWMC went beyond defending its own conduct, and launched an aggressive and expensive attack on Ms. Kurtz herself. It hired an expert to testify that she caused her own arm to break during the process of being assisted to the exam table from her wheelchair, blamed her for the fact her arm did not heal, and argued that her left arm fracture did not significantly impact her life given her significant pre-existing disabilities. The jury rejected these unfair and unfounded defenses, and the Court of Appeals recently upheld that verdict. "The University of Washington Medical Center did so much more damage than one broken bone," said Deborah Martin, co-counsel on the Luvera Law Firm team representing Kurtz. "Instead of accepting responsibility for the training failures that injured its disabled patient, the UW dragged her through a wasteful trial where it portrayed her as 'damaged goods,' implying she was already so restricted by her disability that the UW should not be held accountable for any further damage caused by the fracture. It was a despicable defense strategy, and a complete betrayal by a trusted health care provider." Though the jury rendered the $1.48 million verdict in August 2019, the State appealed the verdict rather than pay the full amount of the judgment. To date, the verdict has accrued over $115,000 in interest, which the UWMC now additionally owes, but could have avoided had it not elected to appeal. Kurtz herself could have benefitted greatly from those verdict proceeds, which would have given her the ability to purchase mobility aids and engage support services to navigate the Covid-19 pandemic. Instead, the UW forced her to wait for payment as its appeal wound through the court system for nearly two more years-a process that increased her own expenses and legal fees. "Justice delayed is justice denied," Kurtz said. "As a long-time patient of UWMC, a taxpayer, and more importantly, as a human being, I didn't deserve that kind of treatment. UWMC pledges to provide superior patient care for all, but they didn't stand by their own mission and the general healthcare code of ethics." Sadly, the UWMC has failed to demonstrate hospital-wide changes in response to its negligence in this case. "At the end of the day, the jury found that UWMC needs to be held accountable for this kind of behavior," said Gagliardi. "Missy was simply seeking the safe and reasonable medical care to which all patients are entitled. Her victory in the appellate courts almost two years later is further affirmation of this." About Luvera Law Firm: Luvera Law Firm is a nationally recognized firm, with high standards of ethical conduct. The firm specializes in medical malpractice, brain injury, death and other major damage cases, and seeks justice for clients as well as positive changes in corporate and governmental behavior. Find more at www.luveralawfirm.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005865/en/

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Altria to Host Webcast of 2021 Second-Quarter and First-Half Results

Altria Group, Inc. (Altria) (NYSE: MO) will host a live audio webcast on Thursday, July 29, 2021, at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss its 2021 second-quarter and first-half business results. Altria will issue a press release containing its business results at approximately 7:00 a.m. Eastern Time the same day. The webcast can be accessed at altria.com.

During the webcast, Billy Gifford, Altria's CEO, and Sal Mancuso, Altria's CFO, will discuss the Company's 2021 second-quarter and first-half business resuts and answer questions from the investment community and news media.







The webcast will be in a listen-only mode. Pre-event registration is necessary; directions are posted at www.altria.com/webcasts. An archived copy of the webcast will be available on altria.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005703/en/
[July 15, 2021] Microsoft Canada recognizes Bulletproof as the winner of the 2021 Security Impact Award

Canadian honor follows global nod as winner of the 2021 Security Microsoft Partner of the Year FREDERICTON, NB, July 15, 2021 /CNW/ - Bulletproof is proud to announce it has won the 2021 Microsoft Canada Security Impact Award. These annual Canadian awards recognize Microsoft partners that have focused on bettering the lives of Canadians and demonstrated excellence in sales, marketing, skilling, innovation, and implementation of customer solutions based on Microsoft technology. "This past week will easily go down in the Bulletproof history books as the most exciting, humbling, and validating all in one," said Bulletproof CEO, Chris Johnston. "To be recognized globally with the Microsoft Security Partner of the Year Award and Microsoft Canada's Security Impact Award in a single year is beyond our wildest expectations. It is an honor for me to be part of the Bulletproof team; working with these amazing humans every day is a gift. Additionally, neither the national nor the global recognition we've received this year would have been possible without the tremendous support and collaboration of the amazing team at Microsoft Canada!" The Security Impact Award recognizes a partner who is doing an exceptional job of providing customers with end-to-end security solutions based on Microsoft Security, Compliance and Identity capabilities in Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Azure Security. "This new solution provides full endpoint support through?Bulletproof's?managed services", said Walter Coleman, Group Lead: Information Technology with Trevali Mining Crporation. "They continuously monitor all our firewall information; all the traffic and activity happening on an environment. And they?have the ability to?immediately triage and segregate affected environments and areas, as well as threats and incidents related to specific user identity or user activity. What that allowed my local teams to do is focus on adding value to the business and other areas. Seeing the backing that Microsoft gives Bulletproof in providing the solutions to us makes me confident that our investment and partnership with Bulletproof was the right choice."



Microsoft Canada presented these awards in 27 categories on July 15, 2021 as part of Microsoft's second virtual Inspire conference. Winners were selected based on the outstanding work the companies provided to their customers and community. "We are pleased to recognize Bulletproof as this year's recipient of the Security Impact Award," said Suzanne Gagliese, Vice President, Global Partner Solutions, Microsoft Canada. "Amid a challenging year, our partners have demonstrated dedication to innovation and customer excellence by leveraging cutting-edge solutions to solve complex business challenges and overcome disruption."

About Bulletproof:

Headquartered in Canada with offices across the United States and around the world, Bulletproof has two decades in the security business, protecting its clients' privacy and data. The company's footprint now includes users on six continents trusting Bulletproof to secure their identities, networks, data, and devices. Named global 2021 Security Microsoft Partner of the Year and Microsoft Canada's 2021 Security Impact Award winner, as well as Partner of the Year | Modern Workplace in 2019 and 2020, Bulletproof is proud to be a long-standing Microsoft Gold Partner with twelve gold competencies, a member of the Microsoft Intelligent Security Association (MISA), and holder of the Microsoft Threat Protection Advanced Specialization. For more information on Bulletproof visit our website ( bulletproofsi.com ) and join us on? LinkedIn , Twitter , and? Facebook .? SOURCE Bulletproof, A GLI Company

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[July 15, 2021] Innovations in International Philanthropy Symposium Will Bring Together Funders, Investors, and Leaders to Address the Most Challenging Global Issues of Our Times

BOSTON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- New England International Donors (NEID) and The Philanthropic Initiative (TPI) today announced that registration is open for the Innovations in International Philanthropy Symposium to be held virtually September 8-10, 2021. Given all that the world has faced in the last two years, global interconnectedness has never been more apparent in issues like global health, climate change, racial equity and social justice, and the future of democratic institutions. The 2021 Symposium will focus on the challenges we face locally and globally, and the important role philanthropy has in creating solutions. The Symposium is designed specifically for individual donors, families, corporate funders, independent and community foundation leaders, and investors who share the goal of propelling forward the capacity and impact of globally minded work. For three days, participants will learn from seasoned funders, thought leaders, and trailblazers shaping trends in international philanthropy. Confirmed speakers, among others, include: Cecilia Conrad | CEO, Lever for Change and Managing Director, John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation

| Jessica Houssian | Co-CEO, Equality Fund

| Lourdes Inga | Executive Director, International Funders for Indigenous Peoples

| Kumi Naidoo (Keynote) | Former Secretary General, Amnesty International and Former Executive Director, Greenpeace International

| Deval Sanghavi | Co-founder and Partner, Dasra

| Malala Yousafzai (Keynote) | 2014 Nobel Peace Prize Winner Each day, participants will choose from four tracks of skill-building workshops  Racial Equity and Social Justice, Impact Investment, Achieving Impact, and Partnerships  plus join guided discussions that maximize participant engagement and other networking opportunities around common challenges and focal points. Day Two will feature guided conversations around 12 issueareas: Advocacy, Agroecology, Climate Change, Disaster Relief, Education, Global Health, Indigenous Peoples, Peacebuilding, Poverty/Livelihoods, Refugees, Strengthening Democracy, and Women and Girls. Day Three will layer in guided discussions around eight geographies, with the closing roundtable devoted to Networking Around Action.



Potential attendees are invited to download a free resource, The Thoughtful Funder's Guide to Global Giving, published in 2019 by TPI's Center for Global Philanthropy. The guide summarizes research on best practices and areas of concern within three issues: water, refugee response, and women and girls. Its calls to action help to shape the event. Details on speakers and session leaders are available at innovatephilanthropy.org. Updates will also be available on Twitter at @TPIPhilanthropy and @NEIDonors.

New England International Donors (NEID) is a unique peer-to-peer learning network based in Boston that serves a community of passionate and dedicated international philanthropists across the world. For over 10 years, NEID has been creating community among internationally focused donors to help address the world's big problems. At NEID, we start with humility. Through strategic networking, educational opportunities, and information sharing we strive for transformational social change. NEID members foster equitable partnerships, learn from each other, connect deeply with one another, inspire each other, and act together to build a world where everyone can thrive. To learn more, visit neidonors.org. The Philanthropic Initiative (TPI) is a global philanthropic consulting practice with 32 years of experience helping ambitious donors and funders develop and execute customized strategies to increase the impact of their giving and achieve philanthropy that is more strategic, effective, and fulfilling. TPI actively advances strategic philanthropy through conducting cutting-edge research, publishing donor education resources, and training individuals, organizations, and advisors in best practices to become levers of change. TPI is a distinct operating unit of the Boston Foundation. Follow TPI's Deep Social Impact blog or visit tpi.org to learn more. Contact: Jennifer Montone, TPI, 314569@email4pr.com, 617.338.5880 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/innovations-in-international-philanthropy-symposium-will-bring-together-funders-investors-and-leaders-to-address-the-most-challenging-global-issues-of-our-times-301335192.html SOURCE The Philanthropic Initiative; New England International Donors

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[July 15, 2021] Esri Commends European Union's Open Data Directive

Esri, the global leader in location intelligence, today commended the European Union (EU) for its leadership in implementing Directive (EU) 2019/1024 (Open Data Directive), which aims to encourage cross-border use of reusable data in Europe. Committing to a standardized open data policy framework will make it easier for EU member states to access high-value datasets such as geospatial, earth observation, environmental, meteorological, statistical, mobility, and company ownership data in a trusted manner. With open data, members can now use application programming interface (API) web services for access. At the unprecedented pace in which data is growing everywhere, the new model enables a European single market for open data that will benefit all members. "We are grateful for the efforts of the European Commission for leading this directive, enabling transparent and free access to valuable geospatial data," said Jack Dangermond, Esri founder and president. "How we access, process, and reuse data significantly influences technological development and improves our daily lives. This directive empowers European users to find solutions and enact data-driven policy to address challenges, from local to global." As EU members finalize implementation of the Open Data Directive, geospatial tools must support data catalog interoperability requirements for open data portls across Europe. To broaden its support for the directive, Esri is expanding the capabilities of interoperable web service APIs, metadata, and ArcGIS Hub catalogs. Using international open standards such as Data Catalog Vocabulary Application profile (DCAT-AP), European customers can share data that conforms to the new Open Data Directive and more easily expose their open data catalog and web services for reuse.



ArcGIS Hub is a system of engagement that enables businesses, citizens, communities, universities, and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) to leverage open data and spatial analytics for collaborative policy initiatives. Current EU member state users, such as in the case of the Ireland Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) data hub, use ArcGIS Hub to report the country's progress toward the SDGs. The Ireland SDGs hub highlights spatial patterns, identifies trends, and shares community data to help achieve those goals. The inclusion of DCAT-AP 2.0.1, along with an extendable architecture on ArcGIS Hub, will serve as a road map to support and guide geospatial technology users as they adopt the legal requirements of the Open Data Directive. Geospatial data is transformative, and the EU's Open Data Directive has paved the way for greater accessibility and transparency. The changes will inspire exciting opportunities for member state collaboration and innovation across Europe.

About Esri Esri, the global market leader in geographic information system (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping, helps customers unlock the full potential of data to improve operational and business results. Founded in 1969 in Redlands, California, USA, Esri software is deployed in more than 350,000 organizations globally and in over 200,000 institutions in the Americas, Asia and the Pacific, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, nonprofits, and universities. Esri has regional offices, international distributors, and partners providing local support in over 100 countries on six continents. With its pioneering commitment to geospatial information technology, Esri engineers the most innovative solutions for digital transformation, the Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced analytics. Visit us at esri.com. Copyright  2021 Esri. All rights reserved. Esri, the Esri globe logo, ArcGIS, The Science of Where, esri.com, and @esri.com are trademarks, service marks, or registered marks of Esri in the United States, the European Community, or certain other jurisdictions. Other companies and products or services mentioned herein may be trademarks, service marks, or registered marks of their respective mark owners. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715006019/en/

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Envestnet to Announce Second Quarter 2021 Results on August 5, 2021

Envestnet, Inc. (NYSE: ENV), today announced that the Company will release second quarter 2021 financial results on Thursday, August 5, 2021 after market close. The Company will host a conference call and earnings webcast to discuss second quarter 2021 financial results on Thursday, August 5, 2021 at 5:00pm ET.

The conference call will be webcast live from the Company's investor relations website at https://investor.envestnet.com/. A replay will be available on the investor relations website following the call.

About Envestnet

Envestnet, Inc. (NYSE: ENV) is transforming the way financial advice and wellness are delivered. Our mission is to empower advisors and financial service providers with innovative technology, solutions, and intelligence to make financial wellnes a reality for everyone. Over 106,000 advisors across more than 5,200 companies-including 17 of the 20 largest U.S. banks, 47 of the 50 largest wealth management and brokerage firms, over 500 of the largest RIAs, and hundreds of FinTech companies-leverage the Envestnet platform to grow their businesses and client relationships.







For more information, please visit www.envestnet.com, subscribe to our blog, and follow us on Twitter (News - Alert) (@ENVintel) and LinkedIn.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715005930/en/
[July 15, 2021] Quattroflow Increases Single-Use Pump Manufacturing Footprint with Construction of New Cleanroom

DOWNERS GROVE, Ill., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Quattroflow, part of PSG and Dover (NYSE: DOV), announced that it will increase manufacturing capacity for its single-use quaternary diaphragm pumps with the construction of a new ISO Class 7 cleanroom. Expected to open in October 2021, the additional cleanroom will more than double the Quattroflow cleanroom space in Duisburg, Germany. This investment will help support growing customer demand for single-use pump products used in the production of biologics, drugs and vaccines. The new cleanroom will operate independently from the existing one while following the same assembly procedures to ensure product uniformity. "Single-use technologies are expanding rapidly in biopharma production as the biopharmaceuticals market continues to grow, including playing a key role in enabling manufacturers to quickly ramp production for COVID-19 vaccines," said Karl Buscher, President, PSG. "Expanding our cleanroom footprint is a critical step in increasing our single-use manufacturing capacity to satisfy this growing market demand. Additionally, this investment further strengthens our production reliability and capabilities to ensure product consistency and safety." Available in a variety of sizes, QuattroflowTM single-use pumps are designed to provide fast installation and qualification of single-use manufacturing systems. They also reduce downtime between batches by eliminating the need for cleaning validation while increasing manufacturing efficiency and delivering the required levels of product purity and sterility that biopharma applications demand. For more information on Quattroflow, please go to quattroflow.com. Quattroflow is a product brand within PSG, a Dover company. For more information on PSG, please go to psgdover.com.





About Quattroflow:

Quattroflow is a leading brand of quaternary (four-piston) diaphragm pumps that primarily serve industries such as pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical that require gentle displacement, reliability, product safety, purity and cleanability. Headquartered in Duisburg, Germany, Quattroflow is part of PSG, a Dover company. For more information on Quattroflow and its complete family of four-piston pumps, please visit quattroflow.com. About PSG: PSG is a global pump solution expert and leading manufacturer of pumps, systems and related flow-control technology for the safe and efficient transfer of critical and valuable fluids and materials. Headquartered in Oakbrook Terrace, IL, USA, PSG is comprised of several world-class brands, including Abaque, All-Flo, Almatec, Blackmer, Ebsray, em-tec, EnviroGear, Griswold, Hydro Systems, Mouvex, Neptune, Quattroflow, RedScrew and Wilden. PSG products are manufactured on three continents  North America, Europe and Asia  in state-of-the-art facilities that practice lean manufacturing and are ISO-certified. PSG is part of the Fluids segment of Dover Corporation. For additional information on PSG, please visit psgdover.com. PSG: Where Innovation Flows. About Dover: Dover is a diversified global manufacturer and solutions provider with annual revenue of approximately $7 billion. We deliver innovative equipment and components, consumable supplies, aftermarket parts, software and digital solutions, and support services through five operating segments: Engineered Products, Fueling Solutions, Imaging & Identification, Pumps & Process Solutions and Refrigeration & Food Equipment. Dover combines global scale, operational agility, world-class engineering capability and customer intimacy to lead the markets we serve. Recognized for our entrepreneurial approach for over 60 years, our team of approximately 24,000 employees takes an ownership mindset, collaborating with customers to redefine what's possible. Headquartered in Downers Grove, Illinois, Dover trades on the New York Stock Exchange under "DOV." Additional information is available at dovercorporation.com.??? PSG Contact:

Rainer Frericks

+49 2065 89205-0

Rainer.Frericks@psgdover.com

Dover?Media?Contact:

Adrian?Sakowicz, VP, Communications

(630) 743-5039

asakowicz@dovercorp.com ????

Dover Investor Contact:

Andrey?Galiuk, VP, Corporate Development and Investor Relations???

(630) 743-5131???

agaliuk@dovercorp.com View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/quattroflow-increases-single-use-pump-manufacturing-footprint-with-construction-of-new-cleanroom-301335141.html SOURCE Dover

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[July 15, 2021] 2021 Governance, Risk, and Control Conference Now a Hybrid Experience

Aligning information technology governance and risk management amid disruption requires enterprise leaders to manage continual change and adjust their business models. The annual Governance, Risk, and Control (GRC) Conference, jointly presented by ISACA and The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), will be available for both in-person attendance in Denver, CO, and as an online experience for a global audience. GRC 2021 will unite more than 1,000 governance, risk, and control professionals from dozens of countries to embrace challenges, forge new solutions, and define the future of global GRC. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715006031/en/ Sessions will be focused on core GRC principles and how they correlate to cybersecurity, data, technology trends, and individual professional development. Rather than traditional tracks, sessions will be tagged with one or more themes to allow attendees to accomplish their educational goals. The topic themes include: Career Development

Compliance

Control

Cybersecurity

Data

Governance

Leadership

Risk

Technology Trends The conference's opening keynote will be delivered by celebrated speaker, author, and syndicated columnist Shawn Rhodes, a former Marine Corps war correspondent and global business consultant experienced in pivoting during times of change. His presentation, "Pivot Point: Thriving in Crisis for Systems and Audit," will focus on how governance, risk, compliance, and audit professionals can flourish in crises by leveraging change and building an engaging team culture. Delivering the closing keynote will be bestselling author and consultant Jessica Rector, a former TV talk show host and Fortune 100 company sales leader who advises companies and teams on improving outcomes while reducing burnout and building resiliency. In her presentation, "Fire Up: Prevent, Break Through, and Extinguish Burnout (and the Power of Resiliency)," Rector will share her Burnout Success Formula, offering steps to stifle stress and extinguish burnout while tackling obstacles. Shawnee Delaney, a decorated intelligence officer and insider threat expert who spent nearly decade with the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency conducting clandestine human intelligence operations worldwide, will deliver the third keynote address, "Insider Threat and Unintentional Insider Threat." She will explore the ways that employees can leave companies vulnerable and how teams can mitigate these risks, identifying factors that can lead to insider threat behaviors and malicious acts.



Anthony J. Pugliese, CPA, CGMA, CITP, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of The IIA will join David Samuelson, CEO of ISACA in a moderated chat to discuss the future of the GRC workforce, share insight into member and certification trends, propose strategies to support the next generation of professionals, and describe adding competencies to adjust to new environments. Two virtual workshops are also offered for GRC conference attendees: "Practicing Agility-A Roadmap Toward Agile (News - Alert) Auditing," with IIA Director of Curriculum, IT, Shawna Flanders, CISA, CISM, CRISC, SSBB, SSGB, taking place pre-conference on 13 August, and "Using COBIT Focus Areas to Improve Governance Practices in Your Organization," with instructor Mark Thomas, CGEIT, CRISC, CDPSE, COBIT Assessor, and president, Escoute Consulting, on 16 August following the conference.

Attendees can earn up to 22 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) credits for attending the conference, and an additional 8 CPEs for each workshop attended. Registration for GRC Conference 2021 will close on Thursday, 5 August. For more information, visit the event pages at ISACA or The IIA. About ISACA For more than 50 years, ISACA (www.isaca.org) has equipped individuals with knowledge, credentials, education and community to progress their careers and transform their organizations, and enabled enterprises to train and build quality teams. The global professional association and learning organization has more than 150,000 members who work in information security, governance, assurance, risk and privacy, and a presence in 188 countries, including more than 220 chapters worldwide. In 2020, ISACA launched One In Tech, a philanthropic foundation. About The Institute of Internal Auditors The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) is the internal audit profession's most widely recognized advocate, educator, and provider of standards, guidance, and certifications. Established in 1941, The IIA today serves more than 200,000 members from more than 170 countries and territories. The association's global headquarters are in Lake Mary, Fla. USA. For more information, visit global.theiia.org or www.theiia.org. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715006031/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Ingersoll Rand Publishes 2020 Sustainability Report

World-class recordable safety metrics, a 50% diverse Board of Directors, expanding stockholder rights and giving $150 million as one of the largest employee equity grants believed to ever be given from an industrial company are just a few of the highlights in the Ingersoll Rand Inc. (NYSE: IR) 2020 Global Sustainability Report published this week. This report marks the company's second annual Sustainability Report and shines a spotlight on the Operate Sustainably strategic imperative, which is one of five strategic imperatives of Ingersoll Rand along with deploy talent, accelerate growth, expand margins and allocate capital effectively. "This journey began with a simple commitment to sustainability and that commitment is now fueling our future goals, growth, success and value," said Vicente Reynal, president and CEO, Ingersoll Rand. "Maximizing our Ingersoll Rand Execution Excellence (IRX) discipline to unlock our ESG potential positively impacts our employees, customers and communities. I am proud of the year-long story of progress this report shares and the employees who made it happen in spite of the challenges we collectively faced with the COVID-19 pandemic." Highlights from this Sustainability Report include: Inspired employees are the engine behind everything Ingersoll Rand achieves: Broad-based employee ownership and investment in employees through $150 million employee equity granttakes performance to a new level with employees as active participants in the journey to create long-term value. With thinking and acting like an owner as one of the company values, it changes the mindset from "this is the company I work for, to this is my company." Growing leadership in diversity, equity and inclusion: Ingersoll Rand's newly announced ambitious 2025 goals in the areas of representation, advancement and experience. Leveraging mission-critical products and services, and internal operations to positively impact our planet: Ingersoll Rand's aggressive 2030 and 2050 goals for water, energy use and waste reduction. Implementing governance best practices: Meaningful stockholder-empowering governance enhancements bring the same focus to governance as the company brings to the environmental and social aspects of the ESG journey. Building resilient communities around the world: Ingersoll Rand's principal partnership with Engineers Without Borders focuses on sustainable community development and infrastructure. Creating shareholder value: Ingersoll Rand's focus on strengthening the balance sheet and supporting the portfolio transformation and inorganic growth strategy through completed or proposed strategic acquisitions-such as Seepex, Maximus, Tuthill Vacuum and Blower Systems, and Albin Pump-is creating long-term value for stockholders.



ESG and Sustainability Report Investor Call and Presentation Ingersoll Rand will host an investor conference call on Friday, August 6, 2021 at 8 a.m. (Eastern time) to discuss the company's ESG progress, roadmap and 2020 Sustainability Report. To participate in the call, please dial 1-833-502-0496, domestically, or 1-778-560-2573, internationally, and use conference ID 9668554, or ask to be joined into the Ingersoll Rand call.

Download and view the full report here. About Ingersoll Rand Inc. Ingersoll Rand Inc. (NYSE:IR), driven by an entrepreneurial spirit and ownership mindset, is dedicated to helping make life better for our employees, customers and communities. Customers lean on us for our technology-driven excellence in mission-critical flow creation and industrial solutions across 40+ respected brands where our products and services excel in the most complex and harsh conditions. Our employees develop customers for life through their daily commitment to expertise, productivity and efficiency. For more information, visit www.IRCO.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715006048/en/

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[July 15, 2021] NexJ Systems to Report Second Quarter Fiscal 2021 Financial Results on Thursday, July 29, 2021

TORONTO, July 15, 2021 /CNW/ - NexJ Systems Inc. (TSX: NXJ), delivering intelligent customer management solutions to the financial services industry, today announced that financial results for the second quarter 2021 will be released on Thursday, July 29, 2021 at approximately 4:00 p.m. ET. The Company's quarterly results will be disseminated via press release and made available on the Company's website (www.nexj.com) and SEDAR. As outlined in NexJ's press release on May 31, 2019, NexJ has ceased holding conference calls to discuss the Company's quarterly financial results. About NexJ Systems Inc.

NexJ Systems provides Intelligent Customer Management to the financial services industry. Our award-inning CRM is designed to help Wealth Management, Private Banking, Corporate and Commercial Banking, and Insurance firms revolutionize their business. Powered by artificial intelligence, our products help drive productivity, boost client engagement, and increase revenue. With users in over 60 countries, our customers benefit from our deep expertise across financial services verticals, strategic investment in innovation, and commitment to their success.



Based in Toronto, NexJ has clients throughout North America, Asia Pacific and in Europe. For more information about NexJ visit www.nexj.com, e-mail info@nexj.com, or call 416-222-5611. Join us on LinkedIn , follow us on Twitter , subscribe to our YouTube channel, or like us on Facebook . SOURCE NexJ Systems Inc.



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[July 15, 2021]

Lockheed Martin Announces Virtual Investor Event Webcast

BETHESDA, Md., July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) will webcast live its virtual investor event on Thursday, August 5, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. EDT. James Taiclet, chairman, president and chief executive officer; Ken Possenriede, chief financial officer; Greg Gardner, vice president of investor relations; and business area subject matter experts will discuss growth drivers and Lockheed Martin's 21st Century Warfare strategic initiatives.

The live webcast will be available on the Lockheed Martin Investor Relations website, www.lockheedmartin.com/investor.

An on-demand replay of the webcast will be available through Thursday, September 23, 2021 at www.lockheedmartin.com/investor.

For additional information, visit our website: www.lockheedmartin.com .

About Lockheed Martin

Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 114,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lockheed-martin-announces-virtual-investor-event-webcast-301335248.html

SOURCE Lockheed Martin
[July 15, 2021] ADEA to Launch Major Dental Education-wide Climate Assessment on Diversity and Inclusion

The American Dental Education Association (ADEA) is launching a momentous dental education-wide climate assessment survey that will collect baseline data on diversity, equity and inclusion at U.S. and Canadian dental schools and allied dental programs. This inaugural climate assessment is a crucial step in assisting all institutions with measuring perceptions regarding the campus climate as one supportive of inclusion, equality and equitable outcomes for all stakeholders. "This project underscores ADEA's commitment to diversity and inclusion and its responsibility and pledge to help all dental schools and dental education programs develop a better understanding of today's landscape," said ADEA President and CEO Karen P. West, D.M.D., M.P.H. "With the data we will collect, dental schools and programs will have valuable insights on the steps they can take to further promote inclusion, diversity and a strong sense of belonging for everyone." The climate study also will include questions on well-being and engagement among specific demographic groups. Collecting baseline data will allow dental schools and allied dental programs to evaluate their strengths and identify areas for improvement related to inclusion and diversity efforts and creating and sustaining a humanistic environment. Additionally, the climate assessment data will serve as an important tool in guiding new and enhanced strategic initiatives related to diversity, equity and inclusion in dental education. Some dental schools and allied dental programs have already participated in climate studies at the campus level. However, one of the ADEA climate assessment's major benefits will be the availability of comparative aggregated data specific to dental schools and allied dental programs, which has been unavailable for schools and programs participating solely in university/campus assessments. Individualized confidential customized reports and data tables will be available to assist in diversity and strategic planning at the school and program level. ADEA is partnering with Nonprofit HR, a consulting group with offices in Washington, DC, and San Francisco, to conduct the survey, which will include all 78 dental schools and 800+ allied dental programs in the United States and Canada. ADEA and Nonprofit HR will also work with the ADEA Collaborative on Dental Education Climate Assessment (ADEA CDECA) and other key stakeholders to develop the survey instrument during the summer and fall 2021. Tentative plans for survey implementation are early spring 2022 and final climate assessment results will be available in fall 2022. "For many decades, we have heard first- and secondhnd accounts of microaggressions, macroaggressions, and lack of cultural sensitivities within work environments in general, and dental education specifically," said Keith A. Mays, Ph.D., D.D.S., M.S., Chair of the ADEA Board of Directors and Dean of the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. "As a faculty member and administrator, I experience too many off-the-record conversations about racial discrimination, sexual harassment or discrimination based on sexual orientation. This makes me believe we may not fully understand how many individuals within our institutions are impacted. Therefore, the ADEA climate assessment survey is an important step to further support healing and well-being in dental institutions.



Lisa Brown Alexander, Founder and CEO, Nonprofit HR, said she was looking forward to this project. "Nonprofit HR deeply values and prioritizes diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and are honored to partner with ADEA for such a monumental, timely and critical initiative," she said. "We are attuned to the strength and value that a stronger concentration on DEI can bring to every organization in the dental education community. And we are in tune with the richness of experience and perspective that a diverse and equitable workforce brings to the academic community across North America." The climate assessment survey is the culmination of more than a year of collaborative work and research conducted by ADEA staff, the ADEA Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee (ADEA DIAC) and ADEA CDECA, which consists of six independent researchers from four ADEA member dental schools (University of Michigan School of Dentistry; University of California, San Francisco, School of Dentistry; Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry; and University of Indiana School of Dentistry), a representative of the Academy for Advancing Leadership and representatives from the ADEA DIAC and ADEA staff.

Prior to deciding to initiate the study, ADEA, through the ADEA CDECA, spent several months examining postsecondary and health professions climate assessment literature. They also gathered and analyzed information from faculty, staff, students and administrators by conducting six surveys and two sets of focus groups. The data collected focused on three areas: 1) past climate survey activities at dental schools and allied dental programs, 2) dental school and allied dental program perceptions and considerations concerning a future ADEA-led dental education-wide climate study and 3) the effects of the COVID-19 crisis and the Black Lives Matter movement on the cultural climate for all members of our communities and climate-related activities. Based on all the information gathered, ADEA CDECA recommended ADEA contract with an external climate survey consultant group to conduct a dental education-wide survey for all U.S. and Canadian dental schools and allied dental programs. In December 2020, ADEA staff began an RFP process during which they invited vendors to submit a proposal to develop, administer and analyze data for a dental education-wide climate survey. ADEA selected Nonprofit HR as its vendor. Many of those involved with the development of the survey hope it will be a step forward for the dental education community in embracing diversity and inclusion. "We should be moving into action. We should have already been able to jump into action after the murder of George Floyd more than a year ago," said Dennis A. Mitchell, D.D.S., M.P.H., Co-Chair of ADEA DIAC, CDECA representative and Vice Provost for Faculty Advancement and Professor at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. "But we weren't able to jump into action and we're still now trying to assess. We've already lost a year of action, which is why it is important that we include next steps and measurable outcomes in any survey that we put forward." Ana N. Lopez, D.M.D., M.P.H., FACD, FICD, Co-Chair of ADEA DIAC, CDECA representative and Professor and former Dean at the University of Puerto Rico School of Dental Medicine, called on the dental education community to welcome this initiative. "Now is our time to take action, to participate, to take it seriously, and to answer those questions with our hearts, with our minds and our own experiences," she said. "We have to be committed to make this change happen and that only happens when we all engage and do what we have to do and answer those surveys." About ADEA: The American Dental Education Association (ADEA) is The Voice of Dental Education. Our mission is to lead and support the health professions community in preparing future-ready oral health professionals. Our members include all 78 U.S. and Canadian dental schools, more than 800 allied and advanced dental education programs, more than 50 corporations and approximately 18,000 individuals. Our activities encompass a wide range of research, advocacy, faculty development, meetings and communications, including the esteemed Journal of Dental Education, as well as the dental school application services ADEA AADSAS, ADEA PASS, ADEA DHCAS and ADEA CAAPID. For more information, visit adea.org. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715006057/en/

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[July 15, 2021] Peridot Announces Effectiveness of Registration Statement and Extraordinary General Meeting Date for Proposed Business Combination with Li-Cycle

Peridot Acquisition Corp. ("Peridot") (NYSE: PDAC) announced today that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the " SEC (News - Alert) ") has declared effective the Registration Statement on Form F-4 (as amended, the "Registration Statement"), filed by Li-Cycle Holdings Corp. ("Newco") in connection with the previously announced proposed business combination between Peridot and Li-Cycle Corp. ("Li-Cycle"). This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715006061/en/ An extraordinary general meeting of Peridot shareholders to approve, among other things, the proposed business combination will be held in virtual format and physically at 2229 San Felipe Street, Suite 1450, Houston, Texas 77019 on August 5, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. Central Time (10:00 a.m. Eastern Time). Peridot strongly recommends that shareholders attend the meeting virtually. In order to attend the meeting virtually, shareholders must pre-register at https://www.cstproxy.com/peridotspac/sm2021. Peridot has filed with the SEC a definitive proxy statement/prospectus relating to the extraordinary general meeting and expects to commence mailing to its shareholders of record as of the close of business on May 27, 2021 (the "Record Date") on or about July 15, 2021. "We are thrilled to reach this milestone in the transaction process, and with the approval from Peridot shareholders, look forward to completing the proposed business combination with Li-Cycle as the company scales its technology and transforms the lithium-ion battery supply chain," said Alan Levande, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Peridot. Ajay Kochhar, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Li-Cycle, added, "Our mission is to solve the global battery manufacturing scrap and end-of-life battery problem and simultaneously create a secondary supply of critical battery metals, while also ensuring a sustainable future for our planet. We have made significant commercial progress since announcing the transaction with Peridot: we partnered with Ultium, LLC, a joint venture of General Motors (News - Alert) and LG Energy Solutions, to recycle up to 100% of the scrap generated by battery cell manufacturing at Ultium's Lordstown, Ohio megafactory; we announced our next Spoke facility in the Phoenix, Arizona area, which when complete will be capable of processing up to 10,000 tonnes of end-of-life batteries and battery manufacturing scrap per year; and we further bolstered our technological moat, with the USPTO granting us two utility patents. The completion of the business combination with Peridot will enable Li-Cycle to capitalize on significant growth opportunities, expand globally, and continue to advance our patented Spoke & Hub Technologies." Peridot Shareholder Vote Shareholders who own shares of Peridot as of the Record Date should submit their vote promptly and no later than 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on August 4, 2021. Peridot shareholders who need assistance in completing the proxy card, need additional copies of the proxy materials, or have questions regarding the extraordinary general meeting may contact Peridot's proxy solicitor, Morrow Sodali LLC, by telephone toll-free at (800) 662-5200 or (203) 658-9400 or by email at PDAC.info@investor.morrowsodali.com. The proxy statement/prospectus is also available online at http://www.cstproxy.com/peridotspac/sm2021, as well as www.sec.gov. Peridot shareholders are encouraged to read the definitive proxy statement/prospectus as it contains important information about the proposed transaction and the proposals to be voted on at the extraordinary general meeting. The proposed business combination is expected to close on or about August 10, 2021, subject to receipt of Peridot shareholder approval and satisfaction of other customary closing conditions identified in the business combination agreemnt.



Following completion of the proposed business combination, Li-Cycle will retain its experienced management team. Ajay Kochhar will continue to serve as Co-Founder and CEO and Tim Johnston will continue to serve as Co-Founder and Executive Chairman. Alan Levande, Chairman and CEO of Peridot, and Scott Prochazka, Peridot director and former President and CEO of CenterPoint Energy, will join Ajay Kochhar, Tim Johnston, Mark Wellings, Rick Findlay and Anthony Tse on Li-Cycle's board of directors. ABOUT LI-CYCLE CORP.

Li-Cycle is on a mission to leverage its innovative Spoke & Hub Technologies to provide a customer-centric, end-of-life solution for lithium-ion batteries, while creating a secondary supply of critical battery materials. Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries are increasingly powering our world in automotive, energy storage, consumer electronics, and other industrial and household applications. The world needs improved technology and supply chain innovations to better manage battery manufacturing waste and end-of-life batteries and to meet the rapidly growing demand for critical and scarce battery-grade raw materials through a closed-loop solution. For more information, visit https://li-cycle.com/. ABOUT PERIDOT ACQUISITION CORP. Peridot is a blank check company formed for the purpose of entering into a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. Peridot's sponsor is an affiliate of Carnelian Energy Capital Management, L.P., an investment firm that focuses on opportunities in the North American energy space in partnership with best-in-class management teams. For more information, please visit https://peridotspac.com/. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND WHERE TO FIND IT In connection with the proposed business combination involving Li-Cycle and Peridot (the "Proposed Transaction"), Li-Cycle Holdings Corp. ("Newco") has prepared and filed with the SEC a registration statement on Form F-4 that includes both a definitive prospectus of Newco and a definitive proxy statement of Peridot (the "Proxy Statement/Prospectus"). Peridot has mailed the Proxy Statement/Prospectus to its shareholders on or about July 15, 2021. This communication is not a substitute for any proxy statement, registration statement, proxy statement/prospectus or other documents Peridot or Newco has filed or may file with the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS, ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS, AND OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED BY PERIDOT OR NEWCO WITH THE SEC IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION BECAUSE THESE DOCUMENTS WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Investors and security holders will be able to obtain free copies of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus and other documents filed with the SEC by Peridot or Newco through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. Investors and securityholders will also be able to obtain free copies of the documents filed by Peridot and/or Newco with the SEC on Peridot's website at www.peridotspac.com or by emailing investors@li-cycle.com. PARTICIPANTS IN THE SOLICITATION Li-Cycle, Peridot, Newco, and certain of their respective directors, executive officers and employees may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies in connection with the proposed transaction. Information regarding the persons who may, under the rules of the SEC, be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies in connection with the proposed transaction, including a description of their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, are set forth in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus. Information regarding the directors and executive officers of Peridot is contained in Peridot's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020, filed with the SEC on March 26, 2021 and certain of its Current Reports filed on Form 8-K. These documents can be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above. NO OFFER OR SOLICITATION This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities of Peridot or Newco or a solicitation of any vote or approval. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. CAUTION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Certain statements contained in this communication may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements regarding the proposed transaction involving Li-Cycle and Peridot and the ability to consummate the proposed transaction. Forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as "may," "will," "should," "would," "expect," "anticipate," "plan," "likely", "believe," "estimate," "project," "intend," and other similar expressions among others. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors, including, without limitation: (i) the risk that the conditions to the closing of the proposed transaction are not satisfied, including the failure to timely or at all obtain shareholder approval for the proposed transaction or the failure to timely or at all obtain any required regulatory clearances, including under the Hart-Scott Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act; (ii) uncertainties as to the timing of the consummation of the proposed transaction and the ability of each of Li-Cycle and Peridot to consummate the proposed transaction; (iii) the possibility that other anticipated benefits of the proposed transaction will not be realized, and the anticipated tax treatment of the combination; (iv) the occurrence of any event that could give rise to termination of the proposed transaction; (v) the risk that stockholder litigation in connection with the proposed transaction or other settlements or investigations may affect the timing or occurrence of the proposed transaction or result in significant costs of defense, indemnification and liability; (vi) changes in general economic and/or industry specific conditions; (vii) possible disruptions from the proposed transaction that could harm Li-Cycle's business; (viii) the ability of Li-Cycle to retain, attract and hire key personnel; (ix) potential adverse reactions or changes to relationships with customers, employees, suppliers or other parties resulting from the announcement or completion of the proposed transaction; (x) potential business uncertainty, including changes to existing business relationships, during the pendency of the proposed transaction that could affect Li-Cycle's financial performance; (xi) legislative, regulatory and economic developments; (xii) unpredictability and severity of catastrophic events, including, but not limited to, acts of terrorism, outbreak of war or hostilities and any epidemic, pandemic or disease outbreak (including COVID-19), as well as management's response to any of the aforementioned factors; and (xiii) other risk factors as detailed from time to time in Peridot's reports filed with the SEC, including Peridot's annual report on Form 10-K, periodic quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, periodic current reports on Form 8-K and other documents filed with the SEC. The foregoing list of important factors is not exclusive. Neither Li-Cycle nor Peridot can give any assurance that the conditions to the proposed transaction will be satisfied. Except as required by applicable law, neither Li-Cycle nor Peridot undertakes any obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715006061/en/

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[July 15, 2021] DigitalBridge Announces Redemption of 7.50% Series G Cumulative Redeemable Perpetual Preferred Stock

DigitalBridge Group, Inc. (NYSE: DBRG) ("DigitalBridge" or the "Company") today announced that it is redeeming all of its 3,450,000 outstanding shares of 7.500% Series G Cumulative Redeemable Perpetual Preferred Stock (NYSE: DBRG.PrG) (the "Series G Preferred Shares") with a total liquidation preference of $86,250,000. "We have highlighted lowering our corporate cost of capital as a key priority and redemption of higher cost securities as one of the uses of our recent $500 million securitized notes offering," said Jacky Wu, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of DigitalBridge. "The redemption of our Series G Preferred Shares will effectively lower our costs by over 350 basis points, from 7.50% to 3.933%, where our investment-grade securitized notes offering priced last week." The cash redemption price for each Series G Preferred Share is $25.00, plus any accrued and unpaid dividends (whether or not declared) to, but not including, the redemption date of August 16, 2021 (the "Redemption Date"). Dividends on the Series G Preferred Shares will cease to accrue on the Redemption Date. Upon redemption, the Series G Preferred Shares will no longer be outstanding, and all rights of the holders of such shares will terminate, except the right of the holders to receive the cash payable upon such redemption, without interest. Upon redemption, the shares of the Series G Preferred Shares will be delisted from trading on the New York Stock Exchange. All shares of Series G Preferred Shares are held in book-entry form through the Depository Trust Company ("DTC"). The Series G Preferred Shares will be redeemed in accordance with the procedures of DTC. Payment to DTC for the shares of Series G Preferred Shares will be made by American StockTransfer & Trust Company, LLC, as redemption agent (the "Redemption Agent").



The address for the Redemption Agent is as follows: American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC

6201 15th Avenue Brooklyn, New York 11219 Attn: Reorganization Department This press release does not constitute a notice of redemption under the Company's Articles of Amendment and Restatement governing the Series G Preferred Shares. About DigitalBridge DigitalBridge (NYSE: DBRG) is a leading global digital infrastructure REIT. With a heritage of over 25 years investing in and operating businesses across the digital ecosystem including towers, data centers, fiber, small cells, and edge infrastructure, the DigitalBridge team manages a $32 billion portfolio of digital infrastructure assets on behalf of its limited partners and shareholders. DigitalBridge, structured as a REIT, is headquartered in Boca Raton with key offices in Los Angeles, New York, London and Singapore. Cautionary Statement regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to expectations, beliefs, projections, future plans and strategies, anticipated events or trends and similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "will," "should," "expects," "intends," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "predicts," or "potential" or the negative of these words and phrases or similar words or phrases which are predictions of or indicate future events or trends and which do not relate solely to historical matters. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control, and may cause actual results to differ significantly from those expressed in any forward-looking statement. Factors that might cause such a difference include, without limitation, the Company's ability to continue to execute its digital transformation and other risks and uncertainties, including those detailed in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020, Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, and its other reports filed from time to time with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements reflect the Company's good faith beliefs, assumptions and expectations, but they are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions investors not to unduly rely on any forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company is under no duty to update any of these forward-looking statements after the date of this press release, nor to conform prior statements to actual results or revised expectations, and the Company does not intend to do so. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210715006067/en/

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Tonight we conclude with yet another local group telling police how to do their job.



The punchline here is that most of the leaders of The Chamber & the Civic Council don't even live inside KCMO.

Still, it would be foolish to deny the power and influence of these organizations.

These two groups are part of a small contingent who basically control Kansas City politics. Their donations determine elections and their dictates set municipal policy.

Real talk: These are the only people who the Mayor & Council have to answer to . . . Accordingly, here are their marching orders disguised as a compromise:

The recommendations center around three points: How investigations into KCPD personnel are conducted; the ongoing legal battle between Kansas City, Missouri, and the Board of Police Commissioners; and working to add diverse voices to the BOPC upon a vacant seat.



One concern is that high-level employees in the department, including the chief of police, have access to complaints against department members early in the process.



As a result, according to the groups, "the police chief is given an opportunity to disagree with [Office of Community Complaints] investigative findings prior to presentation to the BOPC."



The group recommended restructuring the review process to "employ industry best-practices," emphasize transparency, be independent of KCPD and report directly to the BOPC.



Gwen Grant, president of the Urban League of Greater Kansas City, said the recommendations are a step in the right direction. Her group has been calling for a complete overhaul of the OCC.



Read more . . .

KC Chamber calls for police reform as part of new recommendations KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Following months of research, the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and the Civic Council released three recommendations related to policing practices from the the Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department.

Business, civic leaders make 3 recommendations on Kansas City police issues KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Business and other civic leaders are weighing in on issues surrounding the Kansas City Police Department. The Kansas City Chamber and the Civic Council of Greater Kansas City are making recommendations, but stopped short of calling for local control, rather than the state-run system KPCD currently uses.

You decide . . .
A quick glimpse at local COVID news that doesn't seem to be impacting all of the locals out there without masks and living their life . . .



A comparison from a widely celebrated Kansas politico . . .

Former HHS Sec. Sebelius Compares Being Unvaccinated To Drunk Driving, Second-Hand Smoke Former Obama administration Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius compared not being vaccinated for COVID-19 to drunk driving or smoking in public during an appearance Tuesday on CNN. "I want to be able to live my life with vaccination. And I'm being impinged on by people who say, I don't want to get vaccinated," she said.

And recent TV news coverage . . .

Spike in COVID-19 cases creeps from southern Missouri toward Kansas City metro KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The number of COVID-19 cases is increasing and spreading across Missouri. Leaders in Kansas City are concerned that the higher number of cases is creeping toward the metro. ] Missouri's Department of Health and Human Services said the state has 6,804 confirmed cases of COVID-19 over the past week.

Dog trained to sniff out COVID-19 becomes therapy dog at Kansas City senior living community Kansas City is home to a specially trained therapy dog whose skills were put to the test during the pandemic. She was trained to sniff out COVID-19. She's got a new job but is still ready for duty.She's an 18-month-old golden retriever, named Ivory, has a full-time job making people happy.

Which Kansas, Missouri universities are requiring a COVID-19 vaccine this fall? KANSAS CITY, Mo. - As college students prepare to return to campus this fall, administrators are putting new rules aimed at stopping the lingering pandemic in place. "I'm a little nervous, but excited that it's in person," UMKC student Ruth Hail said. Hail said she's ready to be in the classroom.

Developing . . .


Here's the aftermath of a local blaze the proved fatal.



Normally we don't post about fires but this report was exceptionally tragic and local news covered it extensively this evening . . .

Report . . .

Just after 11am, KCFD was called to a house fire in the 7200 block of N. Avalon on a house fire. Police and EMS also responded to the scene. There were five victims transported by EMS to area hospitals. Two of those victims were pronounced deceased at the hospitals. Two of the victims are in critical condition. The fifth victim is believed to be in stable condition.



KCPD Bomb and Arson, additional detectives and Crime Scene personnel have responded to the scene and will be handling the investigation. The cause of the fire is part of that investigation.



Check the links . . .



Police: 2 dead, 3 injured in Northland house fire KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Investigators said two people have died from injuries in a Northland house fire Wednesday morning. Three other people who were inside the house at the time are hospitalized with burns and other related injuries. Kansas City police did not release the ages of the victims who died.

2 dead, 2 critically hurt in Northland house fire involving 3 children A Wednesday morning house fire in the northern part of Kansas City, Missouri, is now fatal.The Kansas City Police Department said two people have died and two people are in critical condition after a house fire in the 7000 block of North Avalon Street.Earlier the Kansas City Fire Department said four people - including three children - were transported to the hospital.

Developing . . .
It's not a surprise that the newspaper backs up their pre-COVID election endorsement and offers a love letter in place of professional analysis and insight when it comes to Mayor Q.



Here's what's more interesting . . .

THE KANSAS CITY STAR DISMISSES LOCAL BIZ FRUSTRATION WITH CITY HALL COVID POLICY & ENSUING RECALLS AS FOOLISH!!!



Also . . .

The anti-police stance of the screed shouldn't be surprising but it is . . . Here's the basics and context wherein even the paper acknowledges that Mayor Q is even more two-faced than most politicians . . .



"His public pronouncements were sometimes at odds with his private commitments. Stubborn issues including affordable housing, homelessness and violent crime remain on the agenda.



"On the whole, however, Lucas has shown he can handle the regions toughest and most important political job."

Read more glowing praise that's hopefully hidden behind the paywall . . .


This morning's dire delta news doesn't bode well for Kansas City and/or the nation still struggling to reemerge from the plague . . . Check-it:



KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Doctors in Kansas City say they are closely monitoring new COVID-19 case trends in the area. On the daily University of Kansas Health System COVID-19 briefing, Dr. Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection prevention and control at the KU Health System, said case counts started to rise in the metro a couple weeks ago.
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Isaac Avilucea is The Trentonians main municipal scribe. A two-time prior restraint winner and testicular cancer survivor, he relishes his reputation as the "Mean Girls" reporter that followed his 18-day stay at the now-defunct North Adams Transcript.
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COVID-19 Destination Protocol, Cyprus  updated July 8th

Q14: Restaurants, bars, cafes, pubs and night clubs

a. Use of masks and carrying out of appropriate hand hygiene, for all back-of-house and front-of-house staff

b. The maximum party size is set at 10 persons per table. In any case, travelers should always consult the Visit Cyprus website for the latest information on this matter, as procedures are likely to change at very short notice.

c. The minimum area occupied between persons not belonging to the same party is 2 square meters

d. Menus are disinfected after every use, unless they are disposable; alternatively they will be displayed at various communal points of the establishment, or made available digitally

e. Guests are encouraged to pay by card and not by cash

f. Disinfection of all touch points is carried out after each use e.g. chairs, tables, salt/pepper mills, sauce bottles, electronic payment machines etc.

g. An information sheet is made available at the entrance, displaying the maximum number of guests allowed in place at any given time

Edited: 14 July 2021, 20:02
@ Piggyjen and Claire:

- We rented a car in Dubrovnik

- We did not visit any islands this time around.This was not our first trip to Croatia.

- We traveled from Dubrovnik to Split, stayed there for 3 nights @ Radisson Blu, then continued to Opatija (Kvarner Bay) and stayed there for 5 nights @ brand new Hilton Costabella (the hotel and its private beach were AMAZING) and then spent the remaining 2 nights in Zagreb.

- While in Opatija, we did a day trip to Udine (Italy), Kranjska Gora (Slovenia) and drove through the National Park there and returned to Opatija. While in Opatija, we absolutely loved restaurant Bianco Nero.

- Drove almost 1,700 kms in 9 days. Was totally worth it.
I have not claimed a thing just pointed out I am bored to the back teeth of seeing this anti UK diatribe posted every time the lists are discussed.

As pointed out before there is hardly a tourist trade between the UK and Libya, Syria.

Maybe look to the misrepresentation of numbers and the opening of doors to tourists from countries that have very low vaccination rates and rapidly growing spreads of the Delta variant before you start your mud slinging.

Edited: 15 July 2021, 10:05
"My itinerary says that I have around 17 hours layover Bangkok and I don't plan on going out the airport."

TBH, I can't even see you been allowed to board your flight in Saudi Arabia, as you do not have the entry requirements needed to enter both India or Thailand.

You may not plan to enter the country, but since your flights are all single tickets cobbled together, you have no choice in the matter. You will be required to go thru immigration in both countries to check in for your next flight, which means you will need to have all the required documents needed to enter that country...

Sorry to say, but you really should have done research on the agents you handed over your money too, and KIWI is one of (if not) the most complained about shoddy third party ticket floggers on Trip Advisor.
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WATERVLIET

Police arrest two Nationals of India for phone scam
McLaughlin declares state of emergency for Rensselaer County in regards to storm damage
Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Cement Market by End-user and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2021-2025
HONG KONG (AP)  Booksellers at Hong Kongs annual book fair are offering a reduced selection of books deemed politically sensitive, as they try to avoid violating a sweeping national security law imposed on the city last year.

The book fair was postponed twice last year due to the coronavirus pandemic. It usually draws hundreds of thousands of people looking for everything from the latest bestsellers to works by political figures.

This year, far fewer politically sensitive books are on display. Vendors are curating their books carefully to avoid violating the national security law.

Beijing imposed the law on Hong Kong in June 2020. Authorities have used it to crack down on dissent, arresting more than 100 pro-democracy supporters in the city.

The law has drawn criticism from governments and other critics who say it restricts freedoms not found on the communist-ruled mainland that were promised to the former British colony for 50 years after it was handed to Beijing in 1997.

Jimmy Pang, a local publisher who used to sell books about 2014 pro-democracy demonstrations that became known as the Umbrella Movement, said many books critical of the government have disappeared.

Every vendor will read through the books that they are bringing to the book fair to see if there is any content that might cause trouble, said Pang, who is president of the Subculture publishing house.

We dont want to get into trouble that will affect the operation of the book fair, so we self-censor a lot this time. We read through every single book and every single word before we bring it here, he said.

Some books published by Subculture were pulled from the shelves of Hong Kongs public libraries earlier this year. Those books are not available at the fair.

Now that authorities have used the national security law to quash dissent, publishers, distributors and even importers and exporters have become wary about the risks of publishing or dealing with potentially sensitive books, said Hui Ching, research director of the Hong Kong Zhi Ming Institute, a private, independent think tank.

Political author Johnny Lau, author of a book about the Chinese Communist Party and Hong Kong in the last century, said his book is not allowed at the fair this year  not because of government interference but because of political pressure from government policies.

Thats why we can only see publications which are (in) favor to the government in the book fair, he said.

Benjamin Chau, deputy executive director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, which organizes the book fair. told reporters earlier this week that books written by pro-democracy authors can still be sold as long as they don't break the law.

Some visitors, such as Alex Chan, lamented the lack of such books in the fair this year.

Is the book fair still a place we can buy any kinds of books? Is Hong Kong still a place with freedom of speech or freedom to publish? he said.

Some publishers have gone ahead and displayed for sale books about the 2014 protests and other politically sensitive topics.

When we publish a book, we put a lot of effort into ensuring the content is legal, thats why we dont think theres a big problem and would still bring them to the book fair, said Raymond Yeung, a spokesman for publisher Hillway Culture Co.

We hope this will be an encouragement to our fellow publishers, to show that theres still some people publishing books like this, he said.



AP Business Writer Zen Soo contributed to this report.
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP)  The federal government's count of the COVID-19 death toll in New York has 11,000 more victims than the tally publicized by the administration of Gov. Andrew Cuomo, which has stuck with a far more conservative approach to counting virus deaths.

The discrepancy in death counts continued to widen this year, according to an Associated Press review, even as the Democrat has come under fire over allegations that his office purposely obscured the number of deaths of nursing home residents to protect his reputation.

New York states official death count, presented daily to the public and on the state's Department of Health website, stood at around 43,000 this week. But the state has provided the federal government with data that shows roughly 54,000 people have died with COVID-19 as a cause or contributing factor listed on their death certificate.

Its a little strange," said Bob Anderson, chief of the Mortality Statistics Branch at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Health Statistics. "Theyre providing us with the death certificate information so they have it. I dont know why they wouldnt use those numbers.

Such a discrepancy can fuel distrust in government tallies of COVID-19 deaths, while making it harder for individuals to know why others in their community died in the pandemic, experts say.

We need to make sure we get it right, and people understand what the numbers are. And how were using them so they cant be misused by people who have a motive to misuse them, said Georges Benjamin, a physician and executive director at the American Public Health Association.

The Cuomo administration's count includes only laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 deaths at hospitals, nursing homes and adult-care facilities. That means its tally excludes people who died at home, hospice, in state prisons or at state-run homes for people living with disabilities.

It also excludes people who likely died of COVID-19 but never got a positive test to confirm the diagnosis. Tests were scarce in the early stages of New York's outbreak. At least 5,000 New York City residents likely died of COVID-19 without a positive test, according to city statistics.

The gap has widened even as testing has become more widely available, with the CDC data showing at least 3,200 more COVID-19 deaths in the state than New Yorks own tracker so far in 2021.

The lower tally is included in the state's coronavirus tracker and news releases. The New York Department of Health declined to directly answer questions from The AP about why New York still publicizes its lower tally of COVID-19 deaths rather than the CDCs higher number.

A spokesperson for New Yorks health agency said the tracker provides accurate data on deaths reported daily by hospitals, nursing homes and adult care facilities for quick monitoring and response planning.

New York State reports every single COVID-19 death publicly  every confirmed death reported by hospitals, nursing homes and adult care facilities in the state tracker and all preliminary death certificate data to the federal government which in turn reports that data online, allowing the public full access to all of this detailed data on a daily basis, spokesperson Jeffrey Hammond said in an email to The Associated Press.

Hammond said the health agencys process of ensuring reported data is accurate will continue for quite some time following this pandemic to give a complete picture once this data is finalized.

Other states including California, Florida, Pennsylvania and New Jersey have taken approaches in line with the CDC, which includes in fatality counts all cases where COVID-19 is an associated or contributing factor.

Generally, states' death counts are higher than the federal government's because the CDC needs time to tally records collected from the states.

The feds are always going to be behind, Benjamin said. Theyve got to do their due diligence to validate their numbers theyve got. Its most likely the feds are going to have a lower number than what states have.

The gap has widened amid months-long scrutiny over how the state has reported COVID-19 data.

Federal prosecutors, the state attorney generals office and the state Assemblys judiciary committee are conducting separate probes after Cuomos administration minimized its toll of nursing home residents deaths by excluding all patients who died after being transferred to hospitals. Cuomo used those lower numbers last year to erroneously claim that New York was seeing a much smaller percentage of nursing home residents dying of COVID-19 than other states.

Unfortunately New York state has chosen to politicize epidemiological information so I feel like theyre lost all credibility over whats the best estimate of COVID deaths in New York State, CUNY professor Dennis Nash said.

New York City health officials, who are keeping their own separate fatality count, have asked the state to clarify its reporting practices, according to spokesperson Bill Neidhardt. The citys website reports the name number of COVID-19 deaths as the CDC.

The CDC, WHO, those are the epidemiologically standard ways of counting mortality, of counting positivity, city hall spokesperson Bill Neidhardt said. That is what we reflect. I cant tell you why the state numbers are different.
Scientists design a high-performance, self-powered, UV photodetector using 2D nanosheets that show record photocurrent stability under air exposure

Two-dimensional "nanosheets" made of bonds between metal atoms and organic molecules are attractive candidates for photoelectric conversion, but get corroded easily. In a new study, scientists from Japan and Taiwan present a new nanosheet design using iron and benzene hexathiol that exhibits record stability to air exposure for 60 days, signaling the commercial optoelectronic applications of these 2D materials in the future.

Converting light to electricity effectively has been one of the persistent goals of scientists in the field of optoelectronics. While improving the conversion efficiency is a challenge, several other requirements also need to be met. For instance, the material must conduct electricity well, have a short response time to changes in input (light intensity), and, most importantly, be stable under long-term exposure.

Lately, scientists have been fascinated with "coordination nanosheets" (CONASHs), that are organic-inorganic hybrid nanomaterials in which organic molecules are bonded to metal atoms in a 2D network. The interest in CONASHs stems mainly from their ability to absorb light at multiple wavelength ranges and convert them into electrons with greater efficiency than other types of nanosheets. This feat was observed in a CONASH comprising a zinc atom bonded with a porphyrin-dipyrrin molecule. Unfortunately, the CONASH quickly became corroded due to the low stability of organic molecules in liquid electrolytes (a medium commonly used for current conduction).

"The durability issue needs to be solved to realize the practical applications of CONASH-based photoelectric conversion systems," says Prof. Hiroshi Nishihara from Tokyo University of Science (TUS), Japan, who conducts research on CONASH and has been trying to solve the CONASH stability problem.

Now, in a recent study published in Advanced Science as a result of a collaborative research between National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), Japan and TUS, Prof. Nishihara and his colleagues, Dr. Hiroaki Maeda and Dr. Naoya Fukui from TUS, Dr. Ying-Chiao Wang and Dr. Kazuhito Tsukagoshi from NIMS, Mr. Chun-Hao Chiang and Prof. Chun-Wei Chen from National Taiwan University, Taiwan, and Dr. Chi-Ming Chang and Prof. Wen-Bin Jian from National Chiao-Tung University, Taiwan, have designed a CONASH comprising an iron (Fe) ion bonded to a benzene hexathiol (BHT) molecule that has demonstrated the highest stability under air exposure reported so far. The new FeBHT CONASH-based photodetector can retain over 94% of its photocurrent after 60 days of exposure! Moreover, the device requires no external power source.

What made such a feat possible? Put simply, the scientists made some smart choices. Firstly, they went for an all-solid architecture by replacing the liquid electrolyte with a solid-state layer of Spiro-OMeTAD, a material known to be an efficient transporter of "holes" (vacancies left behind by electrons). Secondly, they synthesized the FeBHT network from a reaction between iron ammonium sulfate and BHT, which accomplished two things: one, the reaction was slow enough to keep the sulfur group protected from being oxidized, and two, it helped the resultant FeBHT network become resilient to oxidation, as the scientists confirmed using density functional theory calculations.

In addition, the FeBHT CONASH favored high electrical conductivity, showed an enhanced photoresponse with a conversion efficiency of 6% (the highest efficiency previously reported was 2%), and a response time < 40 milliseconds for UV light illumination.

With these results, the scientists are thrilled about the prospects of CONASH in commercialized optoelectronic applications. "The high performance of the CONASH-based photodetectors coupled with the fact that they are self-powered can pave the way for their practical applications such as in light-receiving sensors that can be used for mobile applications and recording the light exposure history of objects," says Prof. Nishihara excitedly.

And his vision may not be too far from being realized!



Formation of FeBHT complex-based CONASH at the liquid-liquid interface and its long-term stability as a photodetector.

Caption: Scientists from Japan and Taiwan designed a nanosheet material using iron and benzenehexathiol that made for a high-performance self-powered UV photodetector with a record current stability after 60 days of air exposure.

Image courtesy: Hiroshi Nishihara from Tokyo University of Science

Reference

Titles of original papers : Two-Dimensional Bis(dithiolene)iron(II) Self-Powered UV Photodetectors with Ultrahigh Air Stability Journal : Advanced Science DOI : 10.1002/advs.202100564

Tokyo University of Science (TUS) is a well-known and respected university, and the largest science-specialized private research university in Japan, with four campuses in central Tokyo and its suburbs and in Hokkaido. Established in 1881, the university has continually contributed to Japan's development in science through inculcating the love for science in researchers, technicians, and educators.

With a mission of "Creating science and technology for the harmonious development of nature, human beings, and society", TUS has undertaken a wide range of research from basic to applied science. TUS has embraced a multidisciplinary approach to research and undertaken intensive study in some of today's most vital fields. TUS is a meritocracy where the best in science is recognized and nurtured. It is the only private university in Japan that has produced a Nobel Prize winner and the only private university in Asia to produce Nobel Prize winners within the natural sciences field.

Tokyo University of Science(About TUS) : https://www.tus.ac.jp/en/about/

About Professor Hiroshi Nishihara from Tokyo University of Science Hiroshi Nishihara is a Professor of Chemistry at The University of Tokyo and a faculty at Tokyo University of Science in Japan. He is a distinguished professor, researcher, and pioneer in the field of synthesis and electrochemistry of conductive metal complex polymers. His research is focused on creation of new electro- and photo-functional materials comprising both transition metals and -conjugated chains, and invention of unidirectional electron transfer systems utilizing molecular layer interfaces. He has published 457 paper with over 13000 citations to his credit.

https://www.tus.ac.jp/en/fac/p/index.php?6A2A

https://www.rs.tus.ac.jp/nishihralab/

About Assistant Professor Hiroaki Maeda from Tokyo University of Science https://www.tus.ac.jp/en/fac/p/index.php?7373

About Assistant Professor Naoya Fukui from Tokyo University of Science https://www.tus.ac.jp/en/fac/p/index.php?7372
Sale of Food and Drink by Restaurants and Street Vendors and participation by persons in Outdoor Sports or Exercise in Public Places, will be allowed on a temporary basis, starting Monday. This according to the Ministry of Health
xxx

15/07/2021

Academic

The Faculty of Law and the International Association of Genocide Scholars (IAGS) are organising the international conference "Genocide and its Prevention in the Digital Age: Challenges in the 21st Century" from July 19 to 23. Topics such as the spread of hatred through social media and the role of new technologies in documenting genocidal atrocities and prosecuting perpetrators will be discussed.

These sessions will be online and some will be focused on current topics such as COVID-19 and its effects on the study and prevention of genocides. Others will treat denialism of genocide in the digital era, or will study specific cases in several world countries. Among the speakers are Alice W- Nderitu, special advisor of the secretary-general of the United Nations for the prevention of genocide; Alex Koenig, director of the Centre of Human Rights of the University of California-Berkeley; Emilio Silva, president of Association for the Recovery of Historical Memory in Spain; Tim Cole, lecturer of Social History at Bristol University and expert in the representation and digital study of the Holocaust and its consequences, and Catherine Masud, from the University of Connecticut, filmmaker with a long experience in filming international conflicts, mainly in Bangladesh.

IAGS organizes every two years an international conference in several cities of the world. Although this time all the sessions will be held online due to the pandemics, in 2023 the UB will hold the conference face-to-face.

Among the entities that collaborate with these sessions is the European Observatory on Memories (EUROM) of the Solidarity Foundation of the University of Barcelona.
By Jeff Murphy, July 14, 2021







WARRENSBURG, MO  In celebration of Missouris 2021 bicentennial anniversary, KMOS-TV, in partnership with other Public Television Association of Missouri (PTAM) stations, announces the broadcast premiere of Missouri! A Bicentennial Celebration at 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 12.

This two-hour presentation includes a sweeping snapshot of Missouri beginning with its settlement and early territory days and journey to admittance as Americas 24th state on Aug. 10, 1821. The story progresses with the pivotal role Missouri played during the Civil War and continues with representative highlights of the states remarkable and unique accomplishments and impact in more recent times. With segments introduced by "Mark Twain," the documentary features several respected historians and abundant archival images. The result is a warm tribute to and understanding of the Show-Me State and its people.

Several Missouri historians were involved with this project including: Gary Kremer, executive director of the State Historical Society of Missouri; Jon Taylor, professor of history at the University of Central Missouri; Brooks Blevins, Noel Boyd Professor of Ozarks Studies at Missouri State University (MSU); Brad Belk, community historian at Missouri Southern State University; James Giglio, distinguished professor of history at MSU; Arthur Mallory, former Missouri Commissioner of Education; Jeremy Neely, assistant professor of history at MSU; and William Piston, history faculty member emeritus at MSU.

KMOS Manager Josh Tomlinson said "We are delighted to play a role in this celebration, and are hopeful that everyone finds it as fun as it is informative. In telling this story of Missouri, we leaned on the expertise of our historians  who almost literally jumped at the opportunity to share their knowledge about the states rich history."

Program producer Brent Slane said, I believe everyone can find tidbits of history and knowledge in the documentary that will lead them to do more digging and research on topics of Missouris past that interest them. Just like researching a family tree, the deeper you dive into our shared stories within the state you find many answers to questions you werent even looking for. And maybe even a few more questions.

Program producer Tom Carter said, The spirit of Missouri is her people. And her people are her enduring and note-worthy history. It's a special privilege for Ozarks Public Television, with support from public broadcasting colleagues at KMOS-TV, Warrensburg, to be able to help share a remarkable story and also preserve it for future generations."



About Public Television Association of Missouri:

PTAM is composed of KMOS-TV, Ozarks Public TV, Kansas City PBS, and Nine Network of St. Louis. Each station serves Missouri citizens with non-commercial programming, community engagement, educational and other services in accordance with the needs of their respective communities. The four PBS stations in Missouri provide high-quality, informative and engaging programs for citizens of all ages, and for this project, the stations will add local voices from their respective communities to tell the wider story of Missouri.



About KMOS-TV:

KMOS serves the citizens of 38 central Missouri counties with high quality, educational content and experiences online, over-the-air and in our communities. We are integral to engaged learning as a professional learning lab for students from a variety of disciplines at the University of Central Missouri.



KMOS-TV broadcasts programming on four channels throughout the region with programs for all ages on 6.1, lifestyle and how-to programs on 6.2, international news, dramas and more on 6.3, and a full schedule of kids programming to fit the schedule of every busy family on 6.4.



For more information, contact Michael OKeefe, programming/communications manager at KMOS-TV at 660-543-4042 or email mokeefe@ucmo.edu.
Over the past day, July 14, thirteen ceasefire violations by the Russian-occupation troops were recorded in the Joint Forces Operation area in eastern Ukraine.

In particular, the enemy opened fire from 120mm mortars, heavy machine guns, and small arms near Luhanske (59km north-east of Donetsk); grenade machine guns and small arms  outside Pisky (11km north-west of Donetsk); 122mm artillery and 120mm mortars  in the area of Novohryhorivka (61km north-east of Donetsk); 82mm mortars  near Svitlodarsk (57km north-east of Donetsk); 120mm and 82mm mortars  outside Vodiane near Donetsk; 120mm mortars  in the area of Krasnohorivka (21km west of Donetsk); heavy machine guns  near Novooleksandrivka (65km west of Luhansk); 120mm mortars, hand-held antitank and under-barrel grenade launchers  in the area of Starohnativka (51km south of Donetsk); 120mm mortars  near Zolote-4 (59km west of Luhansk); tripod-mounted man-portable antitank guns, hand-held antitank grenade launchers, and small arms  outside Novotoshkivske (53km west of Luhansk), the press center of the JFO Headquarters informs.

Two Ukrainian soldiers were wounded in the shelling.

Ukrainian troops fired back in response to the enemy attacks.

In addition, an enemy Orlan-10-class UAV was spotted flying over the line of contact.

The Ukrainian side of the Joint Control and Coordination Center (JCCC) informed the OSCE SMM about all violations by the Russian-occupation troops, using the established coordination mechanism.

As of 07:00 on July 15, no ceasefire violations were recorded.

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As many as 45,000 Ukrainian military have taken part in international peacekeeping operations since 1992, according to Ukrainian Defense Minister Andrii Taran.

He said this in a letter of congratulation on the occasion of the Day of Ukrainian Peacekeepers, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry reported.

"Peacekeeping is one of the most respected missions, requiring high professionalism and courage. The Day of Ukrainian Peacekeepers is a recognition of those who have not spared their lives and health in war zones in the name of strengthening peace and concord. After all, perhaps the most important goal is to protect the civilian population from the horrors of war and active hostilities," the letter of congratulation reads.

Unfortunately, Ukraine was affected by the disaster of war due to Russia's armed aggression. Fighting takes lives and breaks destinies. "We sincerely want peace in our Ukrainian home, and at the same time we remain reliable partners of the international community in resolving crises in the world," Taran said.

According to him, tensions are rising on the planet, the number of "hot spots" is increasing, and civilians are waiting for peacekeepers.

"We consider our participation in international peacekeeping activities as an important element of our foreign policy. Our military, in operations held under the auspices of the UN, NATO, OSCE, and the EU, demonstrate the importance of Ukraine in the European and world security system. This gives us the opportunity to be present in global political processes. and our units can acquire not only military but also ideological interoperability with Ukraine's international partners. Moreover, cooperation with them contributes to the European and Euro-Atlantic integration of our country," Taran said.

"The readiness of our troops in the national contingent and national personnel to guard the peace is important, and many of them have combat experience gained in the Anti-Terrorist Operation and the Joint Forces Operation," he said.

He stressed that given the importance of peacekeeping activities in maintaining international peace and creating favorable external conditions for the development and security of the country, Ukraine will continue to be an active participant in peacekeeping operations.

"The Ukrainian Armed Forces started their peacekeeping axctivities in 1992, and about 45,000 Ukrainian troops have taken part in international peace and security operations since then," Taran said.

Taran thanked Ukrainian peacekeepers for the conscientious performance of their military duty and devotion to humanistic values.

Ukraine marks the Day of Ukrainian Peacekeepers on July 15. The holiday was established by a Verkhovna Rada resolution of May 21, 2013.

op
The Ukrainian Navy has received the first complex of Bayraktar Tactical Block 2 (TB2) unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), according to the press service of the Ministry of Defense.

The first Bayraktar TB2 UAV complex for the Navy has been delivered to Ukraine, Defense Minister Andrii Taran said.

The minister also noted that acceptance tests of the complex were underway at the base.

As reported, in October 2020, Ukrainian Defense Minister Andrii Taran and Head of the Presidency of Defence Industries (SSB) of the Republic of Turkey Ismail Demir signed a memorandum outlining their intentions to launch and implement joint projects to build warships, unmanned aerial vehicles, and all types of turbines.

In addition, Taran and Minister of National Defense of the Republic of Turkey Hulusi Akar signed a framework military agreement between the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and the Government of the Republic of Turkey.

Turkish drones have demonstrated their effectiveness during hostilities in Syria, Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh.

The Bayraktar TB2 is a Turkish medium altitude long endurance (MALE) unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) capable of remotely controlled or autonomous flight operations. It is designed and manufactured by Turkeys Baykar company.

ish
Chief of the Security Service of Ukraine Ivan Bakanov and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Peru to Poland and Ukraine Alberto Salas discussed the areas of bilateral security cooperation.

"To date, the threats are transnational in nature, requiring enhanced cooperation between special and law enforcement agencies around the world. This will be facilitated by signing the Agreement on Mutual Protection of Information with Limited Access which will ensure efficient information exchange between Peru and Ukraine," Bakanov said, the press center of the Security Service of Ukraine informs.

The legal regulation of such exchange will make countering national and international security challenges, including drug smuggling, more effective.

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Peru to Poland and Ukraine expressed support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine.

"Ukraine is one of Peru's largest economic partners in the region. Recently, the trade turnover between our countries has increased, testifying to interest in the further development of relations at all levels," said Alberto Salas.

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The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine has supported the Budget Declaration for 2022-2024 and provided recommendations on the budget policy of Ukraine.

A total of 269 MPs voted for relevant resolution No.5765 at a parliaments meeting on Thursday, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

Representing the three-year Budget Declaration, Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko stressed that the Budget Declaration for 2022-2024 will create a qualitative basis for improving the efficiency of public spending and predictability of public policy.

Thus, Ukraine's nominal gross domestic product is expected to grow from UAH 4.8 trillion in 2021 to UAH 6.65 trillion in 2024. Instead, the unemployment rate will fall from 9.2% to 7.8%. The exchange rate of the hryvnia against the U.S. dollar is projected at UAH 28.6 in 2022, UAH 28.8 in 2023, and UAH 29.2 in 2024. The minimum wage will grow to UAH 6,500 from January 1, 2022, UAH 6,700 from October 1, 2022, UAH 7,176 from January 1, 2023, and UAH 7,665 from January 1, 2024.

The budget policy priorities defined by the Budget Declaration are the following: strengthening the defense and security of the state; developing agro-industrial complex; forming clean and safe environment; developing administrative services and their digitalization; strengthening energy independence; creating an effective and comprehensive system of social support and pension provision; ensuring quality, modern, accessible and inclusive education; ensuring a quality level of healthcare.

As reported, on May 31, 2021, the Cabinet of Ministers at its extraordinary meeting approved a three-year Budget Declaration for the first time. The document contains general indicators of revenues and financing of the state budget, general limits of state budget expenditures, size of minimum wage, subsistence level, and other public policy objectives.

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The second tranche of the EU's macro-financial assistance will be provided to Ukraine immediately after the country takes steps to strengthen the rule of law and reform the judicial system, Vice President of the European Commission Maros Sefcovic has said.

It is very important to see the determination of the Ukrainian leadership to reform the judicial system in accordance with the recommendation of the Venice Commission. We also welcome the commitment of President Zelensky to tackle the influence of oligarchs in the political and economic life of Ukraine. All these steps, which I spoke about, will make Ukraine stronger and more stable. In addition, it will bring other support through macro-financial assistance. Last December, EUR 600 million was disbursed, and I think that when all the steps that I have mentioned are completed, the second tranche will be provided immediately," Sefcovic said in an interview with Interfax-Ukraine.

In addition, he stressed that Ukraine's achievements over the past three decades had been very impressive.

You had a lot of problems; you had an invasion, an annexation of your territory. As you know, the EU has always been on your side. Take a look at the macro-financial assistance worth EUR 16 billion - I think this is the biggest aid that Ukraine has ever received. And we are ready to continue these efforts. ... You have made significant progress in reforming the media sector, public administration, combating corruption, and macroeconomic stabilization," Sefcovic explained.

As Ukrinform reported, on July 14, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine passed the Law "On Amendments to Certain Laws of Ukraine Concerning the Procedure of Election (Appointment) to the Positions of Members of the High Council of Justice and Activities of Disciplinary Inspectors of the High Council of Justice", which sets forth the agency reform.

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The Ukrainian low-cost carrier SkyUp Airlines will start operating direct flights to Saudi Arabia from August 3, the airlines press service reports.

In particular, Kyiv-Dammam-Kyiv flights will be performed on Tuesdays from August 3; Kyiv-Jeddah-Kyiv flights on Thursdays and Sundays from August 8; flights from Kyiv to Riyadh on Wednesdays and Saturdays, flights from Riyadh to Kyiv on Thursdays and Sundays from August 4; and flights from Lviv to Dammam on Thursdays, flights from Dammam to Lviv on Fridays from August 5.

Tickets are already available on skyup.aero.

To travel, vaccinated Ukrainians need certificate of complete vaccination (approved vaccines: Pfizer/BioNTech, Oxford-AstraZeneca, Moderna  2 doses of vaccine, Johnson & Johnson  1 dose); negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before entering the country (does not apply to children under 8 years old); and check-in on the online platform within 72 hours before departure.

Unvaccinated travelers need negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before entering the country (does not apply to children under 8 years old); mandatory 7-day "institutional" quarantine upon arrival in the country; and additional PCR tests on the 1st and 7th quarantine days.

The airline is obliged to check that the passenger has the purchased quarantine package, which includes insurance against COVID-19 disease, the place of quarantine, and PCR tests on the 1st and 7th days of quarantine.

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President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky is pleased with his recent meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

He said this in an interview with TV channels, Ukrinform reports.

By and large, I am pleased with our meeting. It was unexpectedly long - more than four hours, he said.

The president emphasizes that Ukraine and Germany have different views on Nord Stream 2, but believes that he has given many arguments, and Ukraine will not lose ground after the completion of the construction and commissioning of the gas pipeline. He expressed hope that Ukraine will soon receive an offer from Germany on security guarantees.

Zelensky also notes that the German side spoke a lot about the law on oligarchs. "And this is very important for me," he said.

According to the president, all sides have an understanding that the Normandy meeting should take place, but Russia is postponing it.

He also stresses that he proved to the German side that Ukraine is doing everything for this meeting to take place. "And we have done everything to ensure that the Russian Federation also fulfills all the points of our agreements of December 2019," the president added.

President Volodymyr Zelensky was on an official visit to Germany on July 11-12. In Berlin, he met with Minister-President of North Rhine-Westphalia, Head of the Christian Democratic Union Armin Laschet, Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

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The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine dismissed Arsen Avakov from the post of Minister of Internal Affairs.

As an Ukrinform correspondent reports, 291 lawmakers voted for the decision.

Arsen Avakov submitted his resignation on July 13. MPs from the Servant of the People party discussed the dismissal of Avakov at a faction meeting on the same day. The meeting of the political force was attended by President Volodymyr Zelensky, Head of the Presidents Office Andriy Yermak, and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.

Following the meeting, it became known that the main candidate for the post of the head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs is incumbent chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Law Enforcement Denys Monastyrsky. He said that he accepted the President's proposal to head the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Monastyrsky's candidacy for the post will be considered on Friday, July 16.

As reported, Avakov became acting Minister of Internal Affairs on February 22, 2014, after Vitaliy Zakharchenko had been dismissed.

Since February 27, 2014, Avakov has been the Minister of Internal Affairs in the governments of Arseniy Yatsenyuk, Volodymyr Groysman, Oleksiy Honcharuk, and Denys Shmyhal.

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Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine Emine Dzheppar has met with Ms Maka Bochorishvili, Chairman of the Georgian Parliamentary Committee for European Integration, Co-chair of Euronest Parliamentary Assembly, according to the ministry's press service.

The interlocutors praised the intensification of political dialogue between the two countries, as well as mutual support within international organizations and their parliamentary structures for initiatives aimed at restoring the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and Georgia within internationally recognized borders.

Dzheppar and Bochorishvili also exchanged views on joint measures to strengthen security in the Black Sea region, given the growing militarization of the Russian-occupied Crimean peninsula and the region as a whole.

The deputy foreign minister informed in detail about the preparations for the Crimean Platform summit scheduled for August 23 in Kyiv, as well as its main tasks and priorities.

"Ukraine and Georgia have suffered the most from Russian aggression, and that is why our countries should promote joint initiatives to restore security in the region as soon as possible," Dzheppar stressed.

Special attention was paid to the European and Euro-Atlantic integration of Ukraine and Georgia, cooperation within the Associated Trio recently established by Ukraine, Georgia and the Republic of Moldova, in particular in the context of preparations for this year's Eastern Partnership summit.

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Former political prisoners, family members, and human rights activists informed U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs George Kent about the persecution of Ukrainians unjustly imprisoned by Russia.

Family members, former political prisoners, and human rights defenders described for CDA Kent the suffering of those unjustly imprisoned by Russia. They are not forgotten! the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine posted on Twitter.

The Embassy stressed that Russia and its proxies must cease their persecutions and release all Ukrainian political prisoners immediately.

As reported, according to the Prosecutor Generals Office of Ukraine, there are more than 160 illegal prisons in occupied Donetsk and Luhansk, in which more than 3,500 Ukrainian citizens are held.

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Every outburst of Putin's delusions must see our response, regularly and consistently. We must hear ourselves, while our friends must hear us out, too.

It must be admitted that, after promising to ink a piece precisely on why, in his opinion, Russians and Ukrainians are one people, Putin delivered rather quickly. However, his "personal historians" added nothing new on the actual history of the issue: the mix of fictional and biased "facts" seems to have mostly been taken from a school textbook released half a century ago. Everything's done by Dr Goebbels's recipe. This doesn't require a response, some might suggest. In fact, it does  every time they do something like that. By publishing such opuses, they, first of all, consolidate a mass of their "Russian World" adepts in the spirit of what these people aggressively believe in, allowing no other interpretations. What we should go for, in fact, is to do the same, only insisting on actual facts and rights given to the people of Ukraine by God and history. And this must be done persistently, applying all forms of modern communication. It's the Ukrainian narrative that must lay grounds for the perception of national history by the Ukrainian people.

Now let's dwell on Putin's piece a bit more. Putin has pretty much proclaimed that the Ukrainians, their language, and state cannot exist without the consent of their "elder sibling;" and that he will make every effort to this end. Besides, the op-ed personally signed by Putin is a direct challenge to the whole of Ukraine, as well as evidence that some serious trials are facing us. So let's figure out why exactly he chose this timing and what should we get prepared for.

First comes a Soviet-era textbook

We will not deeply analyze the historical views outlined by Putin. We have already done this recently immediately following his "Direct Line" Q&A on June 30. Is it really so important for us to see what exactly Putin is declaring? He really does believe that, if a separate nation has its own language and name, and identifies itself with these features, this doesn't really mean anything as "[m]ost importantly, people both in the western and eastern Russian lands spoke the same language. Their faith was Orthodox. Up to the middle of the 15th century, the unified church government remained in place." There are no facts confirming this "spoke the same language" claim, and there can't be any, while the common language in church books couldn't be fundamentally different, just as Latin couldnt be any different among Catholics.

Putin doesn't want to learn and understand anything at all about the peculiarities of the former Rus lands being ruled by foreign powers  be it the Horde or Lithuania. Moreover, he doesn't understand at all that in fact there was no seizure or conquest of modern Ukrainian lands by the Grand Duchy of Lithuania  it was an accession with the preservation of local traditions and customs, as well as the adoption of language and faith (Putin is frankly lying about the alleged adoption of Catholicism by the Lithuanian elite in XIV century. What happened in fact was... the adoption of Orthodoxy). For some reason, his condescending theses about the princes servicing various overlords are not supported by any remarks about the princes on the territory of modern Russia serving the Horde.

Such simplification is precisely a feature of the high school level of understanding history, all the more so if it's studied in a shape imposed by state ideology. It makes no sense to keep listing and analyzing all inconsistencies as the sources of such views on the very complex process of the formation of the three East Slavic peoples are clear  their roots lie deeply in Soviet children's readiness to trust their lying textbooks. Also, the imperial component adds up to this because the fiction about the three-headed Russian people - the Great Russians, the Little Russians, and the Belarusians  is the cornerstone of historiography preaches in the times of Alexander III, to whom, I believe, Putin has recently opened two posh monuments. He has done it for a good reason, it appears.

Also, his KGB-molded worldview adds a political explanation  it's the enemies who sought to embroil the brothers (here's a quote): "In the 16th century, it signed the Union of Lublin with the Kingdom of Poland to form the PolishLithuanian Commonwealth. []The process of Polonization and Latinization began, ousting Orthodoxy." So here it is, the external enemy I was talking about. Further, as per Putin, things were going on with the same flow, right up to the 20th century: the heroic Russians were defending the weaker Ukrainians, while the Poles and Austro-Hungarians were only oppressing the latter.

It's interesting to see Putin justify the emergence in the Russian Empire of the anti-Ukrainian Valuev Circular of 1863 and the Ems Decree of 1876: "I am not going to idealise anything. We do know there were the Valuev Circular of 1863 and then the Ems Ukaz of 1876, which restricted the publication and importation of religious and socio-political literature in the Ukrainian language. But it is important to be mindful of the historical context. These decisions were taken against the backdrop of dramatic events in Poland and the desire of the leaders of the Polish national movement to exploit the 'Ukrainian issue' to their own advantage."

This isn't your land

The "Putinwriters" decided to lay out their new stuff and main ideological theses in paragraphs covering the events of the 20th century. They are replete of statements openly denying Ukraine and Ukrainians the right to separate existence. Here is how they interpret the signing in late January 1918 by representatives of the Ukrainian People's Republic (UPR) of the Brest-Litovsk peace treaty with the members of the Quadruple Alliance, primarily Germany and Austria-Hungary: "The declared sovereignty did not last long. Just a few weeks later, Rada delegates signed a separate treaty with the German bloc countries. Germany and Austria-Hungary were at the time in a dire situation and needed Ukrainian bread and raw materials. In order to secure large-scale supplies, they obtained consent for sending their troops and technical staff to the UPR. In fact, this was used as a pretext for occupation." Nothing about Lenin's ultimatums to the Central Rada voiced in December 1917, or the military aggression by Bolsheviks and attempts to sow chaos in Ukraine from within, or the battle of Kruty By the way, neither there is any mention of the fact that Lenin publicly admitted: the Bolsheviks need Ukrainian bread and raw materials. Isn't it strange? Some "rightfully" need this all, while others don't, right?

Signing of peace treaty in Brest-Litovsk

And most importantly, the very right of Ukrainians is being denied to declare independence and pursue independent activity in foreign policy. By the way, Germany and its allies did recognize UPR's independence back then, although there's not a word from Putin in this regard.

Besides, here's the cornerstone thesis of what Putin wants to impose on his audiences about the process of the USSR founding: "[A] rather fierce debate among the Bolshevik leaders resulted in the implementation of Lenin's plan to form a union state as a federation of equal republics. The right for the republics to freely secede from the Union was included in the text of the Declaration on the Creation of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics and, subsequently, in the 1924 USSR Constitution. By doing so, the authors planted in the foundation of our statehood the most dangerous time bomb."[...] "On 8 December 1991, the so-called Belovezh Agreement on the Creation of the Commonwealth of Independent States was signed." Conclusion: none of the peoples that were part of the USSR should have been given the right to pull out in the first plays as they should only remain closely attached to Russia, in the same grip of collective consciousness and history.

And then come two more very peculiar quotes: "Therefore, modern Ukraine is entirely the product of the Soviet era. We know and remember well that it was shaped  for a significant part  on the lands of historical Russia. To make sure of that, it is enough to look at the boundaries of the lands reunited with the Russian state in the 17th century and the territory of the Ukrainian SSR when it left the Soviet Union" and "You want to establish a state of your own: you are welcome! But what are the terms?" And the conclusion Putin is offering is that Russia was territorially "robbed, indeed."

Here, again, everything is on the surface. Putin is confident that if some territory was once conquered, then it should be organically woven into common traditions, just becoming part of a single organism, like a hand or a foot. As for that peoples-languages-traditions-history thing, why complicate everything? Meanwhile, Putin's silent on what Russia would look like when applying this principle on itself  that would be without Sakhalin in the east and Kaliningrad in the west. That's not to mention Taganrog, Kuban and half of the Voronezh and Kursk regions... If a principle is applied of "let everyone withdraw taking what they came with," it will turn out that, say, the countries in modern Central Asia have virtually no right to exist as such. After all, when the USSR was founded, they were all part of Soviet Russia (RSFSR) as autonomies. I hope everyone has caught Putin's hint and sees the prospects clear now.

What are the grounds for this all? It's a typical imperial approach. On the territory controlled by the metropolis, everything is always "fine" as colonialists bring the "light of civilization" to all the savage people out there. There are no alternatives. What does this lead to? To the great blood spill during the collapse of empires as Britain once saw its India, and France  in Algeria. The Russian Empire began to disintegrate in 1917. It was then that the nations it reigned over, including the Ukrainians, were able to create their own states. But the Bolsheviks, putting forward a new project of world order, managed to stop this process, in most cases by coercion and corruption, ensuring a U-turn to create a new empire. And Putin is precisely the heir of this empire, of its very idea, regardless of its name.

Putin won't stop

Putin concludes his piece with the usual nonsensical claim about modern Ukraine being "anti-Russia" and an outright threat: "And we will never allow our historical territories and people close to us living there to be used against Russia. And to those who will undertake such an attempt, I would like to say that this way they will destroy their own country."

And this right here poses a direct challenge to the entire Ukrainian society. Putin won't stop. He actually believes that Ukraine is a sort of a Little Russia with its embroidered vyshyvanka shirts, dumplings, and the hopak dance, that Ukrainians are not entitled for their own state and independence. And he will continue to fight for his claims  that's, of course, if others allow him to.

What about the timing?

A fundamental question is why exactly Putin has chosen this timing to disturb these muddy waters. He could be pursuing several goals here.

Firstly, this could be a sort of "Dark Mark" for Ukraine's political elite. Putin just doesn't accept current Ukrainian authorities, especially given the latest sanctions introduced against his emissary Viktor Medvedchuk. This is a rejection of dialogue and, in fact, a halt to any hypothetical steps towards reconciliation that would take Ukraine's interests into account.

Secondly, this is an attempt to mobilize the "fifth column" within Ukraine, to show that no one has abandoned the "vatniks" [a colloquial term for pro-Russian circles] here, and everything will continue as it is  through spinning such "holiday sets" of the imperial mind's delusions about the "brotherly peoples" that the insidious West and the Kyiv authorities have been setting against each other. As means to make things implode, "ritual" murders of some activists promoting the "Russian world" in Ukraine could be applied. Also, even more significant figures could fall victim to the plot. Yet another mention of the "Odesa Khatyn" of 2014, the murders and pogroms, which never even happened at all, is a warning of what might happen next. The card of Ukrainians working in Russia can also be played: they could be offered Russian passports, or, on the contrary, told to leave the territory of the Russian Federation, thus being forced to return to Ukraine with no money or job. Isn't this the right "fuel" for street riots?

Thirdly, this is a propaganda product for domestic consumption in Russia ahead of the election. Against the backdrop of an ongoing pandemic and its latest wave, dubious vaccination successes, and price hikes that the government can't deal with, something is required to keep people distracted from the said issues. Another round of anti-Ukrainian hysteria: what else is needed to rally the electorate before the September vote?

Fourthly, as per Putin's entourage, this is about rising stakes in bargaining with the West and designating the boundaries of Russia's influence. And they don't seem to care that the West has long been aware of what these efforts are worth. The main thing for them is not to miss the moment for playing the bet right.

What should Ukraine do?

Well, there's nothing new, actually: Ukrainians must understand that these are not just words and that the threat hasn't gone anywhere. They mustn't accept any offers to just "settle" somehow. They must simply realize that this is about the very existence of Ukraine as such. Putin doesn't see this country in his model of future at all. Do we see it there? And, yes, how do we see it?

Separately, it's necessary to speak out beyond Ukraine. In response to such an op-ed, at least another one should be published, with our view of the historical relations of the Russian and Ukrainian peoples and an explanation of the obvious  WHY EVERY NATION IN THE WORLD IS ENTITLED FOR ITS OWN STATE AND INDEPENDENCE. But this should be more than an article. This better be a whole program worked out in the information domain.

Simple answers to tough questions or simple solutions to tough problems always lead to negative consequences. Therefore, right now WE NEED TO MAKE EXTRAORDINARY EFFORT TO PROVE OWN RIGHT. WE MUST BE HEARD TO ENSURE THAT OTHERS AGREE WITH US.

Viktor Chopa, Kyiv
In a move to protect the Ukrainian ethnic minority in Russia, the Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) was compelled to suspend membership of all Ukrainian organizations and UWC leaders in Russia.

The Congress explains that the move comes after Vladimir Putin enacted draconian laws that impose criminal sanctions on Russian citizens for associating with undesirable organizations, including the Ukrainian World Congress.

At an extraordinary meeting on July 10, 2021, the UWC Board of Directors voted to suspend the membership of all UWC organizations from the Russian Federation, including the Prosvita Far East Ukrainian Spiritual Cultural and Educational Centre in Vladivostok and the Povolzhia Fellowship of Ukrainians in Saratov.

This vote came at the request of the UWC member organizations and Board members from Russia, who today face criminal liability for working with the UWC after Russian President Vladimir Putin signed Federal Law 230 on June 28, 2021.

This law expands the scope of an earlier prohibition on Russian nationals from participating in the activities of organizations deemed undesirable that was limited to the territory of the Russian Federation. The new legislation extends the prohibition beyond Russia.

Further, on July 1, 2021, President Putin enacted Federal Law 292 which amended Russias Criminal Code. Russians now found guilty of being involved with undesirable organizations can face up to 6 years in prison.

For millions of ethnic Ukrainians who are citizens of the Russian Federation, the Kremlins actions violate their human and civil rights.

We call on the international community to condemn these actions by the Kremlin and to take concrete steps to protect democratic values and human rights, UWC President Paul Grod said.

Despite this threat, UWC will continue to support and advocate internationally for Ukrainians living in Russia by raising global awareness about the human rights violations and cultural genocide they are suffering.
Ukraine's Ambassador to Azerbaijan Vladyslav Kanevskyi has represented Ukraine at the Mid-Term Ministerial Meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), according to the press service of the Embassy of Ukraine in the Republic of Azerbaijan.

In his speech, the ambassador noted that the last two years had become a certain test for all countries of the world. In this context, the Non-Aligned Movement is an important and dynamic platform for presenting different views on current global challenges, including those related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Another important issue that causes great concern in Ukraine is the human rights situation in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, which is deteriorating every day under Russias occupation.

The practical consequences of the Kremlin's criminal policy are the prohibition of the Mejlis (the representative body of the Crimean Tatars), the persecution of Ukrainians and Crimean Tatars on ethnic grounds, and politically motivated criminal cases only for the fact that a person associates himself with Ukraine.

In this context, an important instrument for the de-occupation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea is a multilateral international mechanism called the Crimean Platform, which should unite and consolidate the efforts and resources of the international community on the way to the liberation of the Crimean peninsula.

In this regard, the ambassador called on the NAM member states to join the Crimean Platform for a diplomatic solution to the de-occupation of Ukrainian Crimea.

The Crimean Platform is a new consultative and coordination format initiated by Ukraine to improve the efficiency of the international response to the occupation of Crimea, respond to growing security challenges, step up international pressure on Russia, prevent further human rights violations, protect victims of the occupation regime, and achieve the de-occupation of Crimea.

The first Crimean Platform summit is scheduled for August 23, 2021.

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OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Teresa Ribeiro has noted the active media environment in Ukraine.

She said this during a high-level online meeting "Building the Capacity to Resist Information Influences: Freedom of Speech as Component of Information Security" on Thursday, July 15, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

There is an active media environment in this country, which is, of course, very positive, because sometimes indifference is the real poison. I am sure this is not the case in Ukraine. Sometimes this happens in mature democracies, where people take people's rights for granted. This is wrong and we have to fight for them every day, Ribeiro said.

The OSCE representative also outlined the search for a balance between countering disinformation and protecting freedom of speech as a challenge for Ukraine, which is committed to the ideas of freedom of expression.

Ribeiro recalled the work of the OSCE project coordinator in Ukraine aimed at strengthening media self-regulation mechanisms and cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and Information Policy to develop an online platform on media literacy.

As Ukrinform reported, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba and OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Teresa Ribeiro opened a high-level online meeting "Building the Capacity to Resist Information Influences: Freedom of Speech as Component of Information Security" on July 15.

The event is part of Ukraine's push for the intensification of the international community's efforts to combat disinformation and hybrid information warfare.

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The European Union has delivered more than 3 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines to partner countries, including more than 600,000 doses to Ukraine, via the European Civil Protection Mechanism.

EU Member States continue to support global vaccination efforts. 3 million vaccines have already been facilitated via the European Civil Protection Mechanism. I thank all countries for showing their solidarity. Vaccination for all is essential to beat this global pandemic, EU Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarcic said, reads the press release on the European Commissions website.

According to him, this program has facilitated the delivery of vaccines to Albania, Bhutan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Taiwan, Tunisia, Cabo Verde, Moldova, Serbia, and Suriname.

Ukraine received 500,000 doses from Denmark and 100,800 doses from Romania.

The Commission coordinates the delivery and finances up to 75% of the costs for transporting the assistance.

To date, EU Member States have pledged over 159 million vaccines doses with countries outside the EU via Covax, the EU Civil Protection Mechanism or bilaterally.

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Honduran mother Ana, 27, holds her three-year-old daughter in her arms at a makeshift shelter for asylum seekers in Tijuana, Mexico.  UNHCR/Tim Gaynor

Honduran mother of three Lorena* recalls how she clambered on to a makeshift raft on the banks of the Rio Grande in Mexico with her two eldest children, a girl of seven and a boy four, to cross to the United States and seek asylum.

Her husband followed on a second raft, clutching their one-year-old son. He was picked up by the US Border Patrol and released and is now in Tennessee with the baby. She and her two older kids were also apprehended but after three days detention in the Rio Grande Valley, Texas, they were flown to San Diego, California, and expelled to Mexico under Title 42 public health related asylum restrictions.

Since mid-April the 29-year-old has been living in a packed shelter in a Tijuana church hall, where as many as 600 asylum seekers and their children sleep in bunkbeds and on mattresses spread on the floor, many after being denied the right to seek asylum in the United States and expelled to Mexico.

Were stuck. We cant go back home, and we cant go forward. We are adrift, Lorena said, perched on a chair, gathering her two eldest children to her. Its traumatic. Its desperate  I dont know this place. Its a strange country  I dont have family here.

Lorena fled Honduras after a street gang sought to forcibly recruit her younger brother. When they reported the crime to police, the gang threatened to cut our tongues out  and kill us all, she says.

"We're stuck. We can't go back home, and we can't go forward."

Thin and glassy eyed from crying, she says she hardly eats and barely sleeps at the shelter where social distancing is impossible. Her children have been sick with fevers at the site where there is an outbreak of headlice.

Look at the state were in. I am crying out for help, she said. We have the right to seek refuge, give us the opportunity.

Thousands of asylum seekers like her are living in limbo in shelters and makeshift camps across northern Mexico, in cities from Tijuana to Ciudad Juarez and Reynosa, unable to go forward, and terrified of returning home.

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, has called on the US government to lift Title 42 restrictions that remain in effect at the border since March last year, and restore access to asylum for people like Lorena  whose lives depend on it  in line with international legal and human rights obligations.

In recent years, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, programme has helped more than 10,000 refugees start over in safer parts of Mexico in formal jobs with full benefits including healthcare. But for many, like Lorena, this would mean being permanently separated from her husband and youngest child.

Others are terrified after being kidnapped and assaulted by criminal groups as they cross Mexico in search of safety  among them Honduran mother Ana.

See also: Refugees find safety and a new life in Mexico

Escaping gang threats at home, the 27-year-old and her three-year-old daughter were making their way to the United States where she has relatives, using a coyote  or human smuggler. In the northern city of Monterrey, they were kidnapped at gunpoint.

They had guns  pistols and rifles. They came into the warehouse where they had us and tied us up, she said, clasping her hands behind her back. A relative in the US wired the US$5,000 ransom, and a week later their captors released them barefoot, without clothes, without money.

After crossing to Texas, she was detained by Border Patrol, flown to San Diego, and deported to Tijuana without the chance of applying for asylum as she had hoped to do. She now lives in the informal shelter which has no security gate or guard.

We need a solution. Im a long way from my country and my family, she said, as her daughter wriggles in her lap. The girl, she says, has become restless and bites her fingernails. We are at gods mercy, totally unprotected.

The risks facing those crossing northern Mexico informally were brought home earlier this year when investigators identified the bodies of 14 Guatemalan migrants shot to death, burned and tossed in a clandestine grave in north-east Tamaulipas state.

"I'd like to see my kids in the park, eating an ice cream cone."

In his statement, Grandi warned that the thousands expelled from the United States faced serious humanitarian consequences in northern Mexico. He encouraged the US administration to strengthen its asylum system and diversify safe pathways so asylum-seekers are not forced to resort to dangerous crossings facilitated by smugglers.

For Guatemalan mother of two Mirna, help cannot come soon enough. Repeatedly beaten and raped by her partner in Guatemala, the 24-year-old attempted to join her mother in Los Angeles in May, but was detained and expelled. Kidnapped by a cab driver on reaching Tijuana, she now lives in fear at the shelter. Its not safe, with what happened to us here, she says.

Across town at another shelter run by the Mexican authorities, Honduran father of two young boys, Dario and his wife have also lived through an ordeal of gang death threats at home, kidnap in northern Mexico, expulsion from the United States and the turmoil of a life in limbo. His vision is simple and poignant.

Id like to see my kids in the park, eating an ice cream cone, without wondering if someone is coming to kill them, he said. Thats all we ask.

*Asylum-seekers names have been changed for protection reasons.
Zarif, 6, stands in front of his family's makeshift tent in Nawabad Farabi-ha displacement camp on the outskirts of Mazar-e Sharif in northern Afghanistan.  UNHCR/Edris Lutfi

Two weeks after fleeing her home to escape clashes between government and opposition forces, 24-year-old Maryam* huddles in the shade of a makeshift shelter in Nawabad Farabi-ha camp on the outskirts of Mazar-e Sharif city in northern Afghanistan, seeking respite from the 45-degree-Celsius heat outside.

She came here from the Sholgara district some 55 kilometres to the south with her four children, parents and brother, after opposition forces stormed the area and engaged in running battles with government forces. Maryam said she heard gunfire breaking out all around their home as the two sides fought for control of the area.

We had no time to gather anything. We fled with only a blanket, she said, sitting in a tent made from cloth tied to sticks used as anchor points. Though plastic tents are available, the stifling heat renders them unusable, so camp residents rely on the most basic materials to protect themselves from the fierce sun and frequent dust storms.

Maryam and her family are among an estimated 270,000 Afghans who have been newly displaced inside the country since the start of this year by an upsurge in violence. As conflict intensifies in northern Afghanistan and other parts of the country, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, this week warned of an imminent humanitarian crisis, saying failure to reach a peace agreement will see further displacement.

See also: UNHCR warns of imminent humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan

Amid an overall increase in civilian casualties, the proportion of women and children affected by violence has risen sharply since January, adding to the toll Afghanistans decades-long conflict has taken on people like Maryam and her family.

Maryam and her mother, Halimah, are both war widows, and carry the additional burden of trying to care for Maryams injured brother and chronically ill grandfather.

Maryams troubles began a decade ago, when the then 13-year-old was married off to a man she had never met. Initially, the teenager was led to believe that her husband also resided in the northern Balkh province, but after she got married, she was taken to the southern province of Helmand to live with her in-laws.

Maryam's daughters make their way back to their shelter after collecting water in Nawabad Farabi-ha camp.  UNHCR

She had had a very different vision for her life, hoping to get an education and one day start working. But in Helmand  another province plagued by decades of fighting between government and opposition forces  she raised four children until her husband was killed in crossfire during one of the many battles in the area.

Following the death of her husband, Maryam moved with her two boys and two girls to Kabul, before eventually reuniting with her family in Sholgara earlier this year.

At first, things were okay. There was relative calm, she said. But after the latest violence they now find themselves living in Nawabad Farabi-ha camp along with 100 other families.

"There have been nights when we had nothing at all to eat."

The city of Mazar-e Sharif may be a bustling commercial hub, but for internally displaced people (IDPs) in the camp there are few economic opportunities. With both men in the family injured or sick, Maryams eldest son is forced to wander the city collecting recyclable trash to try to earn enough to feed the family.

There have been nights when we had nothing at all to eat, Maryam explained.

Having been forced to move four times in the span of a few years, her children are unable to attend school and are dressed in worn clothes covered in grime and dust.

My children havent worn new clothes since we left Helmand, she said. What kind of life is this? Look at what the sun has done to my childs face, she added, pointing at her youngest son Zarifs reddened, blistered skin.

Maryams own face reveals the damage that repeated displacement and conflict have inflicted on her health. Her sunken cheeks point to the malnutrition that has run rampant across swathes of the country.

The World Bank estimates that at least 45 per cent of the countrys population suffers from malnutrition, mostly fuelled by poverty. A national drought likely linked to climate change and affecting up to 80 per cent of the country is adding further pressure to a population largely reliant on rain-fed agriculture and livestock grazing, raising fears of further mass displacement.

UNHCR and its partners are assisting newly displaced Afghans with emergency shelter, food, health care, water and sanitation support and cash assistance, but a shortage of funding means humanitarian resources are falling dramatically short.

See also: Forced displacement hit new high in 2020 despite fewer routes to safety

In the camp, families struggle to find clean drinking water. Many said their children have fallen sick from drinking the brackish water at a nearby well, and the only way to make it drinkable is to boil it for at least 20 minutes.

But finding wood in the desert area where the camp is located is difficult. Without an income residents cannot afford to go to the city and buy wood, so their children are forced to walk in the heat to find cleaner sources of water, a journey that simply increases their thirst.

For Maryam, the impact that displacement is having on the wellbeing and future of her children is the hardest thing to bear. I really just want my children to have a good life and be able to go to school and get an education.

*Names changed for protection purposes.
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WHEN I served in combat in Iraq, I knew I was doing the right thing  fighting for freedom, both for Iraqi civilians and for the folks at home. Back then, I never would have thought wed have to fight so hard for our freedoms  including the freedom to start and grow a business absent untowa
Following a national search, Jaci Lindburg, Ph.D., has been named the University of Nebraskas (NU) associate vice president for digital education and director of University of Nebraska Online.

NU System President Ted Carter and Executive Vice President and Provost Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., recently made the announcement.

Lindburg, who came to the University of Nebraska in 2012, most recently served as assistant vice president for IT strategy for NUs Information Technology Services and director of digital learning at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO).

In her new role, which took effect July 1, Lindburg will retain her systemwide IT Strategy leadership responsibilities within NU ITS going forward. She will also continue to support UNO Digital Learning through Monday, Aug. 16, as she transitions into her new role.

Jaci has a gift for working collaboratively in a multi-campus, shared governance environment, and a deep appreciation for our fundamental mission to create access and opportunity for students and families in Nebraska and beyond, Carter and Gold said. Her energy and vision for creating the learning environment of the future makes her exactly the right person to lead NU Online into its next chapter.

NU Online is the system-wide platform bringing together 150-plus online programs offered by the four campuses of the University of Nebraska. Students from all 50 states take online courses from the University of Nebraska today, with some 8,200 studying entirely online.

In ITS, Lindburg has been responsible for leading strategic planning and coordinating system-wide academic technology efforts, among other duties. At UNO, she has worked closely with deans, chairs and faculty to grow high-quality, sustainable online and hybrid courses and programs. From 2016, when she assumed her UNO role, to 2019, online student credit hour production at UNO grew 22 percent.

Digital education is all about access and opportunity for students. Thanks to the work of so many across the University of Nebraska, we are well-positioned to shape the learning environment of the future  one where every student can access an outstanding University of Nebraska education, no matter where they are, Lindburg said.

Im so honored to serve in this capacity, and I look forward to sitting down with faculty and leadership teams across our campuses, working together to build on their momentum and serve the next generation of learners.

Its a great pleasure to see Dr. Lindburgs leadership being recognized at the NU Level, said Senior Vice Chancellor Sacha Kopp, Ph.D. Her role in the Office of the Provost will bring tremendous innovation for all the NU Campuses. We have greatly benefited from her leadership at UNO in development of digital and online pedagogy, particularly these past 18 months of the pandemic. In the coming months, UNO Assistant Vice Chancellor Sarah Edwards will oversee the UNO Office of Digital Learning on an interim basis while we conduct a national search to fill Dr. Lindburgs vital position."

The UNO Office of Digital Learning  as part of both ITS and UNOs Office of Academic Affairs  is responsible for partnering with UNO's colleges to grow and develop fully online programs and courses; managing and shaping the academic technology ecosystem in which digital learning occurs (Canvas, VidGrid, TurnItIn, Respondus, Zoom, etc.); supporting faculty in teaching with technology; designing and maintaining classrooms and learning spaces across the campus; and working with online students to ensure smooth access to fully online degree options.

A sixth-generation Nebraskan, Lindburg earned her bachelors degree from Hastings College, a masters from Doane College and her Ph.D. from St. Louis University in Missouri.

The Associate Vice President of Digital Education search was guided by a system-wide committee chaired by Julie Sebastian, Ph.D., dean of the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing.
ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 15th Jul, 2021 ) :Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Shaukat Tarin, Thursday invited German enterprises to make investment in Pakistan in different fields including health, education, agriculture and power sectors.

In a meeting with Ambassador of Germany, Bernhard Schlagheck, who called on him here, Shaukat Tarin assured all possible support and facilitation in improving the trade and economic relations between the two countries.

He said Pakistan and Germany enjoyed close, amicable and multidimensional relations over the years, adding both the countries were keen to further strengthen business and economic linkages as well as people-to-people contacts.

The minister informed the ambassador that the government was firmly committed to putting the country on a trajectory of all-inclusive and sustainable economic growth. For attaining this growth, the government has revived the long-term planning process under the umbrella of Economic Advisory Council (EAC).

Special Assistant to Prime Minister (SAPM) on Finance and Revenue Dr. Waqar Masood was also present during in the meeting, according to press statement issued by the Finance Ministry here.

The federal minister said the EAC would formulate short, medium and long term plans to spur growth in key priority areas, adding the focus would be on reducing poverty.

The government also stands committed to revive the business and industry that has been hit hard amid COVID-19. The ultimate focus of the government was employment generation, efficient resource mobilization and industrial growth, he added.

He further underlined that the government was vigorously pursuing pro-people agenda to promote economic empowerment of the under-privileged women through Ehsaas safety net.

Ehsaas, he said, provided direct cash support for socio-economic uplift and financial inclusion of women from marginalized sections of the society.

The government would also offer loans to young entrepreneurs for self-employment schemes under Kamyab Pakistan Program which would be launched soon.

He said, it would also extend credit facility to young farmers to promote youth engagement and to boost agricultural productivity, adding this would usher in a new era of agro-based industrial progress in the country.

On the occasion, the ambassador congratulated the finance minister on presenting a growth-oriented and business friendly Federal Budget 2021-22 after taking all stakeholders on board.
Havana, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 15th Jul, 2021 ) :Cuban authorities restored internet access on Wednesday following three days of interruptions after unprecedented protests erupted over the weekend, AFP journalists said.

But access to social media and messaging apps such as Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter remained blocked on 3g and 4g.

Social media is the only way Cubans can access independent news outlets, while messaging apps are their main means of communicating among themselves.

Sunday's protests were also organized on social media, which was also used as a platform to share information.

One person has died and more than 100 were arrested, including independent journalists and opposition activists, since the anti-government protests broke out in the communist-ruled island over the worst economic crisis in decades.

"Social media is totally aggressive, calling for murders, calling for lynchings, for attacks on people and particularly those identified as revolutionaries," President Miguel Diaz-Canel said in a meeting reported by the National Television Newscast.

"This story that they're trying to compile (on social media) that the Cuban government is repressive ... is a complete lie and libel," he added, calling it "media terrorism." Cuba has blamed a half-century of US economic pressure for the economic crisis, but the downturn also comes amid strict measures against Covid-19 and a rise in cases.

Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez on Tuesday said the United States had incited social unrest through a Twitter campaign using the hashtag #SOSCuba.

"It's true that we don't have mobile internet, but we're also lacking medicines," Rodriguez said.

"I have to tell you, Cuba will not renounce its right to self-defense." Web monitoring group NetBlocks reported disruptions from Monday in Cuba on major social media and communications platforms.

"The world is watching as Cuban authorities arrest and beat dozens of their own citizens, and that includes journalists and independent voices," State Department spokesman Ned price told reporters in Washington.

"The abuse of journalists, of independent voices, the attempted suppression, including through technological means of the voice of the Cuban people, this is not something that could ever silence or quell the legitimate aspirations of the Cuban people for freedom, for human rights, for what their own government has denied them for far too long." Streets in the capital Havana were calm on Wednesday, but there was a visibly larger security presence, particularly around the parliament building, where protesters shouting "Down with the dictatorship," "Freedom" and "We're hungry" gathered on Sunday.

New calls went out on social media on Tuesday for a protest outside the parliament building, which was surrounded by police vehicles.

NetBlocks said some Cubans have been able to get around the internet restrictions by using virtual private networks, or VPNs.
Brussels, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 15th Jul, 2021 ) :The European Commission warned Poland on Thursday that it would act to ensure that member states respect the precedence of EU law over their national systems.

The EU executive said it was "deeply concerned" the Polish Constitutional Tribunal had rejected measures ordered by the European Court of Justice to protect judicial independence.

"This decision reaffirms our concerns about the state of the rule of law in Poland," the statement said.90 "EU law has primacy over national law. All decisions by the European Court of Justice, including orders for interim measures, are binding on all member states' authorities and national courts." The warning that Brussels would "make use of its powers" came after the European Court of Justice ruled that a central part of Poland's judicial reforms was not compatible with EU law.

The standoff could trigger financial penalties for Poland and a dangerous political split within the EU that could call into question Warsaw's membership of the bloc.

Warsaw and Brussels have been at loggerheads for years over reforms pushed through by the Polish government, which is led by the right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party.

The Polish law on reforming the judiciary, which came into force in February last year, prevents judges from referring questions of law to the European Court of Justice.

It also sets up a "disciplinary chamber" to oversee Polish judges, with the power to lift their immunity to expose them to criminal proceedings -- a move that Brussels says undermines their independence.
LA PAZ (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 15th July, 2021) The Rosatom-built nuclear research facility in Bolivia will start operating in a few months, Bolivian Foreign Minister Rogelio Mayta told Sputnik on Wednesday.

"The year of the coup d'etat [in Bolivia in 2019] caused delays [in the completion of the project] ... But the project continues," Mayta said, adding that "in a few months the center will be launched."

A subsidiary of the Russian nuclear energy corporation and the Bolivian Nuclear Energy Agency signed a contract in 2017 to build nuclear research and technology center in Bolivia's El Alto.

The construction of the facility was put on hold due to the change of power in the Latin American country and later over the coronavirus pandemic.

It is set to become the world's most alpine research center. With a cyclotron accelerator and multipurpose irradiation center, the compound will accommodate research for agriculture and medicine.

The facility will operate a 200kW pressurized water reactor. The project is estimated at over $300 million and has a projected functional capacity of 50 years, after which the reactor can be modernized to extend its exploitation period.
The Estonian Foreign Ministry said on Thursday it had summoned the Russian ambassador to Tallinn, Alexander Petrov, to hand him a note announcing one of the diplomats of the Russian embassy persona non grata in response to the expulsion of the Estonian consul Mart Latte from St. Petersburg

HELSINKI (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 15th July, 2021) The Estonian Foreign Ministry said on Thursday it had summoned the Russian ambassador to Tallinn, Alexander Petrov, to hand him a note announcing one of the diplomats of the Russian embassy persona non grata in response to the expulsion of the Estonian consul Mart Latte from St. Petersburg.

"We hope this episode will not harm the bilateral relations of Estonia and Russia. Estonia remains interested in neighbourly and constructive relations. It is still regrettable that Russia has taken an unfriendly line in its communication with the European Union and member states," the statement says.

The FSB of Russia reported that Latte had been detained on July 6 red-handed while receiving classified materials from a Russian citizen. This activity is incompatible with the status of a diplomatic worker and is clearly hostile toward Russia, the FSB said. Later, the Russian Foreign Ministry declared Latte persona non grata.

Estonian Prime Minister Kaya Kallas said earlier that what happened in St. Petersburg was an FSB provocation against an Estonian diplomat who, in her opinion, "was doing his usual work in the host country in accordance with all legal acts."
MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 15th July, 2021) The MiG-31 fighter jet flew over the Pacific Ocean to escort the US Navy R-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft on Thursday, the Russian National Defense Control Center said.

According to the Defense Ministry, Russian airspace control devices detected an air target approaching the Russian airspace over the Pacific Ocean.

"To identify an aerial target and prevent illegal entrance to Russian airspace, a MiG-31 fighter from the air defense forces of the Eastern Military District took off," the center said.

The crew of the Russian fighter identified the target as a US Navy P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft and escorted it over the Pacific Ocean along the southeastern coast of the Kamchatka peninsula, the center said.
MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 15th July, 2021) Russian fighter jets escorted three US Air Force B-52H strategic bombers over the Bering Sea on Thursday, the Russian National Defense Control Center said.

According to the Defense Ministry, Russian airspace control devices detected three air targets approaching the Russian airspace over the neutral waters of the Bering Sea.

"To identify air targets and prevent illegal entrance to the Russian airspace, two pairs of MiG-31 and Su-35 fighters from the air defense forces of the Eastern Military District took off," the center said.

The crews of Russian fighters identified the air targets as B-52H strategic bombers of the US Air Force Global Strikes Command and escorted them over the Bering Sea, the center said, adding that the illegal entrance to the country's airspace was prevented.
The security forces prevented a terrorist attack in Moscow; a Russian citizen who was planning to blow up an improvised explosive deevice (IED) in a crowded place, was arrested, Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) said in a statement

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 15th July, 2021) The security forces prevented a terrorist attack in Moscow; a Russian citizen who was planning to blow up an improvised explosive deevice (IED) in a crowded place, was arrested, Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) said in a statement.

"As a result of the measures taken in Moscow, a Russian citizen, who planned to organize a terrorist act in July by detonating an improvised explosive device in crowded places, was arrested," the statement says.

The components of an IED were found in the cache equipped by him, and instructions for its manufacture and correspondence with members of international terrorist organizations located in Syria were found in the communications equipment used.

The investigation department of the FSB has opened a criminal case, operational search activities and investigative actions are continuing.

"The identity of the terrorist has not been disclosed in the interests of the investigation," the FSB noted.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 15th July, 2021) Slovenia, which currently holds the presidency of the Council of the European Union, firmly believes that the relations with Russia should be stepped up with prospects for wide-range cooperation, Slovenian Ambassador to Moscow Branko Rakovec told Sputnik.

"Slovenia firmly stands for developing relations with Russia, for dialogue and cooperation, primarily in those areas that are of common interest. These are ecology, environmental protection, green economy, health care. Of course, we hope that our relationship will grow strongly," Rakovec said.

The diplomat noted that last year's trade turnover between Ljubljana and Moscow amounted to 1.3 billion Euros ($1.5 billion), calling it a good result.

Slovenia primarily exports pharmaceutical products to Russia, which in turn supplies energy resources, including oil and gas.

In May, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told his Slovenian counterpart, Anze Logar, during a meeting in Moscow that Russia valued its relations with Slovenia, as they were not affected by expedience and opportunism.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Slovenia expresses solidarity with other European Union member states on the issue of expelling Russian diplomats and considers their actions to be justified, Slovenian Ambassador to Russia Branko Rakovec told Sputnik

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 15th July, 2021) Slovenia expresses solidarity with other European Union member states on the issue of expelling Russian diplomats and considers their actions to be justified, Slovenian Ambassador to Russia Branko Rakovec told Sputnik.

"We have no reason not to trust our friends from the EU. We believe that there were such reasons, and, during his visit to Russia, the Slovenian foreign minister [Anze Logar] stressed that these states can count on Slovenia's support," the ambassador said in an interview.

Commenting on Slovenia's multi-vector foreign policy, Rakovec stressed that Slovenia wants to keep its foreign policies independent, in unveiled response to the statement of US lawmaker Paul Gosar, who chairs US-Slovenia Friendship Caucus at the US House, that Ljubljana has to confront Russia and China after assuming the presidency of the EU Council.

"I can say that the EU and Slovenia are pursuing their autonomous, independent foreign policy. Of course, at the same time we respect our Transatlantic colleagues," the ambassador said.

An unusually large numbers of Russian diplomats were expelled from various European countries throughout 2021. The reasons cited ranged from non-compliance with anti-coronavirus measures to spy scandals.
The Catholic Church in the European Union (EU) is calling for more family-friendly policies and EU policies boosting intergenerational solidarity.

By Robin Gomes

The Commission of the Bishops' Conferences of the European Union (COMECE) issued a press release on July 12, saying it made the call for family-friendly policies and intergenerational solidarity in his contribution to the consultation on the European Commission's Green Paper on Ageing.

Published by the EU Commission on January 27, the Green Paper was open to a wide consultation, which ended on April 21, to which COMECE also contributed. The main aim of the consultation was to launch a wide public debate on the necessary regulations to anticipate and respond to the socioeconomic impacts of Europes ageing population.

Eight specific needs

In its contribution, the Church in the EU reaffirmed the main objective of the "Green Paper" and underscored 8 specific needs. It called for improving participation in the labour market, especially for older workers; implementing lifelong learning systems; raising awareness regarding elder abuse; focusing attention to the situation of older people in rural areas; promoting fair and affordable access to health care; implementing a fair pension system; recognizing qualifications obtained through voluntary work; and promoting new forms of long-term care for social inclusion.

In the context of longer life expectancy, COMECE also stressed the importance of providing spiritual guidance to the elderly, as well as making the spiritual and cultural resources of elderly people more available to younger generations.

Europe's demographics

A prominent feature of ageing in Europe is that the number of older people is growing. Today, 20 per cent of the population is above 65 but by 2070, it is projected to be 30 per cent. It is estimated that by 2070, the average age in Europe will reach the threshold of 49 years, five more than the current average. In the same period, the share of working-age (20-64 years) should drop from the current 59 per cent to 51 per cent of the total population. The percentage of people above 80 is expected to more than double, reaching 13% by 2070. This demographic trend is having a significant impact on peoples everyday lives and in EU societies.

The Church's contribution to the debate

In the past few years, COMECE has been working intensively on issues related to demographic changes in the EU. In reaction to the European Commissions 2020 Report on the Impact of Demographic Change, COMECE and the Federation of Catholic Family Associations in Europe (FAFCE) on December 3, 2020, published the reflection paper, The Elderly and the Future of Europe: Intergenerational solidarity and care in times of demographic change.

In it, COMECE called on the EU and its Member States to work on policies that recognize the crucial role of the elderly, protecting, promoting and including them, while ensuring their full participation in our communities. This trend has also been echoed in the recent document by the Vatican Pontifical Academy for Life, entitled, Old age: our future  The elderly after the pandemic.

The COMECE-FAFCE paper says, "The elderly are an integral part of the family, a source of support and encouragement for the younger generations, and they cannot be separated from society and relational networks. It underlines that "the elderly are not only vulnerable people but also dynamic actors of social life".

Pope Francis and elderly

COMECEs July 12 press release comes just days ahead of the first World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly that will be celebrated by the Catholic Church on July 25. Announced by Pope Francis on January 31, the annual day will be celebrated each year on the fourth Sunday of July, close to the feast of Sts Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus. The theme chosen by the Pope for this first edition this year is I am with you always (Mt 28:20).



The Holy Father has also granted the faithful the possibility of obtaining a plenary indulgence on July 25 by devoting adequate time to actually or virtually visit the elderly people in need or in difficulty (such as the sick, the abandoned, the disabled and other similar cases).



The Pope has also released a video message in which he emphasized that the vocation of the Third Age is to "guard the roots, transmit the faith to young people and take care of the little ones".
The first ever International Religious Summit takes place in Washington, DC, with the support of the US Catholic Bishops' Conference.

By Lisa Zengarini

Washington D.C. is hosting the first ever International Religious Freedom Summit (IRC) this week. The event, which was announced in April by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), started on July 13 and runs through to July 15 , in a mixed format, bringing together more than 40 organizations of different faiths and countries committed to upholding religious freedom across the world.



The USCCB's support

The IRC Summit is co-sponsored by the Committee on International Justice and Peace of the United States Catholic Bishops Conference (USCCB) and will be held on a yearly base. Other organizations taking part include Aid to the Church in Need, the Pontifical Foundation of the Catholic Church supporting the Catholic faithful and other Christians where they are persecuted (ACN) , the Knights of Columbus, Churches for Middle East Peace, Open Doors , but also Muslim and Jewish organizations.

Religious persecution on the rise

The aim of the Summit is to provide insights on international religious freedom and address violations against religious liberty while providing a support group for those who are being persecuted for their faith. Religious persecution is on the rise in many countries: according to a Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, 83 percent of the worlds approximately 7 billion people now live in countries with high government or social hostilities involving religion and persecution.

Raising public awareness

The summit also aims to create a coalition of global organizations that together will push for the cause of religious freedom in world, as it raises public awareness and boosts political strengths for the movement. Every culture, nation, religious or political system must strive to better protect religious freedom, a vital human right, Bishop David J. Malloy, chairman of US Bishops Committee on International Justice and Peace has pointed out.

Topics discussed and speakers

The topics discussed during the meeting include: the protection of refugees; sectarian violence in Nigeria; the use hi-tech for persecution purposes, religious discrimination and rising religious nationalism. Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan, Archbishop of New York and chairman of the USCCBs Committee for Religious Liberty, Mike Pompeo, former US Secretary of State and Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the US House of Representatives are amongst the speakers.

The USCIRF

The USCIRF is a U.S. federal bi-partisan commission created by the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA) of 1998 with the task of monitoring violations of religious freedom internationally and making policy recommendations to the President, the Secretary of State, and the Congress. Its findings and recommendations are published in an annual report.
The Christian faithful in Mopti diocese of Mali express joy over the release of kidnapped Catholic Priest, Fr. Leon Dougnon after over three weeks in the custody of his abductors.

By Vatican News staff writer

Father Leon Dougnon, pastor of Segue in the Mopti diocese of Mali, has been liberated after spending several weeks at the hands of his abductors. He was released on Tuesday.

Abduction in June

On Monday, 21 June, Fr. Dougnon, alongside four parishioners, were kidnapped on their way to the funeral of a priest, Fr. Oscar Thera, scheduled for the next day, in the diocese of San, Segou region.

The other people with Fr. Dougnon were released a few days after the kidnapping but Fr. Dougnon was detained in the kidnappers' custody.

The abduction was confirmed by regional authorities but no group has claimed responsibility for the incident. However, the region is frequented by extremist Islamist militants.

Gratitude for Fr. Dougnons release

Fr. Ferdinand Koulibaly, the media coordinator for the Bishops Conference of Mali, confirmed the reports of Fr. Dougnons release in an interview with Vatican News, and expressed joy for the news.

I must admit that when we heard the news, I did not see anyone who did not dance or jump for joy. We thank the Lord for this release, he said.

Fr. Koulibaly further affirmed that he had been in touch with Fr. Dougnon who is still overwhelmed with emotions at his release. He recalls that Fr. Dougnons first words were of gratitude for the prayers that had been said for his safe return.

Since the announcement of this news, several people, including priests, have requested for Masses to be celebrated in thanksgiving for Fr. Dougnons release, Fr. Koulibaly said, adding that he too celebrated a Mass when he received the news.

Kidnappings in Mali

Targeted attacks against the Christian communities in Mali are not frequent but there have been some precedents.

Responding to a question on abductions in the West African country, Fr. Koulibaly noted that Fr. Dougnons kidnapping is not the first. He recalled that in 2017, Sr. Gloria Argoti, a nun from Colombia, was seized and is believed to still be in the custody of her abductors.

Kidnappings have not stopped in Mali [and] in Burkina Faso and it is worrying for us, Fr. Koulibaly noted. We do not know which group is doing this, or what their motives are, but we wonder: Why nuns? Why priests?

He further expressed concerns that the actions of the groups involved in abductions threaten the convivial harmony that exists and makes people more suspicious of each other.

Nonetheless, Fr. Koulibaly affirms that the Church is present, appreciated and supported by the people, and is still very involved in social action in the country.

We preach the love that we must have for one another, Fr. Koulibaly said. We work in the sense of Fratelli tutti, so that Christians and Muslims join hands. The Malian Church has been promoting this since it has existed in the country.
Stranded people near Pakistan's border town of Chaman after the Taliban captured the Afghan side of the border. (AFP or licensors)

With insecurity and violence worsening with escalating conflict, thousands have been forced to flee their homes and take shelter elsewhere.

By Robin Gomes

With the Taliban overrunning vast swathes of territories in Afghanistan in the wake of the withdrawal of foreign troops, the security situation in the country has worsened. With an estimated 270,000 people forced to flee their home since January due to insecurity and violence, the total number of internally displaced people (IDPs) has exceeded 3.5 million, the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) said on Tuesday.

The agency said that families were fleeing extortion by non-state armed groups and the dangers posed by improvised explosive devices, or IEDs, along major roads. Many also reported a breakdown in welfare support and a loss of income, owing to the rising insecurity.

Rights violations

The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, UNAMA, is increasingly concerned with the number of reported serious human rights abuses and violations alleged in communities most affected by the ongoing military offensive across the country. The reports of killing, ill-treatment, persecution and discrimination are widespread and disturbing, creating fear and insecurity.

Children and women

According to UNAMA, the number of civilian casualties rose by 29 per cent in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period 12 months ago. An increasing proportion of casualties are women and children.

According to UNHCR Spokesperson, Babar Baloch, around 65 per cent of the Afghan population  in and outside of Afghanistan  are children and young people. The failure to reach a peace agreement between the Taliban and Government to stem the current violence will lead to further displacement within the country, as well as to neighbouring countries and beyond, he told journalists in Geneva.

Afghanistans neighbours

UNCHR pointed out neighbouring Iran and Pakistan host nearly 90 per cent of displaced Afghans - more than two million registered Afghan refugees in total. Baloch said, Both countries have granted access to territory and protection to Afghan refugees, along with health and educational services through national systems. Their hospitality and inclusive policies, spanning decades and generations, he stressed, must not be taken for granted.

The needs of those who have had to flee suddenly are acute, he said, adding that as part of its coordinated response, the agency and partners are assisting newly displaced Afghans with emergency shelter, food, health, water and sanitation support and cash assistance, despite challenges in accessing vulnerable groups.

Call for solidarity, sharing

The refugee agency is urging the international community to step up support to the government and people of Afghanistan and its neighbours at this critical moment, in a spirit of solidarity and burden-sharing. UNHCRs financial appeal for the Afghanistan situation (including operations for Afghan refugees in Pakistan and Iran) remains acutely underfunded, at only 43 per cent of the $337 million needed.

Baloch said, The resilience of the Afghan people has been pushed to the limit by prolonged conflict, high levels of displacement, the impact of Covid-19, recurrent natural disasters, including drought, and deepening poverty.
The United Nations' Refugee Agency releases a statement on Yemen, warning that as the humanitarian crisis continues, women and children make up three quarters of the four million people forced from their homes, putting them at greater risk.

By Vatican News staff writer

A new statement released by the UN's Refugee Agency (UNHCR) in Yemen describes the struggle that women and children face in the crisis described as the worst humanitarian crisis in the world.

The conflict in Yemen is entering its seventh year and millions of people face similar struggles. UNHCR describes this by telling the stories of a few of these people.

Women are often left widowed by the fighting, and with their houses destroyed. Children are often left orphaned, homeless and without access to formal education.

The violence in these seven years has killed more than 2,900 civilians and damaged more than 6,600 homes, 33 schools and 43 roads and bridges. Hudaydah one of the worst affected cities in Yemen during the six-year conflict.

Nabiha

One of the stories told in the UNHCR statement is that of Nabiha from Hudaydah who has received aid to buy land on which she is now building her house, brick by brick, so as to put a roof over her children's head.



"Widowed in the early days of the conflict and displaced several times by the fighting, the mother of three is building a house that she hopes will restore the stability her family lost.

Originally from Al-Mokha, a town 185 kilometres along the coast famous for its coffee trade, Nabiha fled to Hudaydah with her mother, brother, daughter and two sons in 2015 after her husband was killed in an explosion while at work".

Nabiha's desperate struggles have become a familiar experience for millions of people caught up in the crisis.

Since 2015, more than 20,000 civilian deaths and injuries have been recorded, and more than 4 million people have been forced to flee within the country's borders. Three-quarters of displaced Yemenis are women and children, while one in four displaced families is headed by women like Nabiha.

Nabiha earns the equivalent of 2-4 US dollars each day, an amount which is rarely enough to cover daily expenses and she often finds herself skipping meals in order to be able to feed her children.

The UNHCR statement warns that in a patriarchal society like Yemen, where socio-cultural norms and practices shape women's lives, the conflict has increased the risk of exploitation and abuse.

The Pope's closeness to Yemen

Pope Francis has often expressed his closeness to the people of Yemen, praying for peace in the nation. In particular, in inviting people to join him in prayer for Yemen, the Pope thinks especially of the "children, who are suffering due to the serious humanitarian crisis".

I express my sorrow and concern for the further escalation of violence in Yemen, which is causing numerous innocent victims, the Pope said during his New Year Urbi et Orbi: Let us think of the children of Yemen, without education, without medicine, famished.
Former US President Jimmy Carter and his wife, former first lady Rosalynn Carter, celebrate their 75th wedding anniversary Wednesday. VOAs Kane Farabaugh reports on some of the secrets behind the partnership of the longest-married presidential couple in US history. VOA Khmer's Pin Sisovann narrates.
The World Health Organization has warned that COVID-19 is gaining ground in Africa, with the death toll jumping 43% in the past week.

WHO says the continent recorded 1 million new cases in just one month, with several countries facing shortages of oxygen and beds for patients.

Speaking during a virtual press briefing Thursday, Matshidiso Moeti, WHO regional director, said Africa is recording its highest number of COVID-19 cases since the virus hit the continent in early 2020.

"Over the past month, Africa recorded an additional 1 million cases," Moeti said. "This is the shortest time it has taken so far to add one1 million cases. Comparatively, it took around three months to move from 4 million to 5 million cases. This COVID-19 resurgence is the fastest the continent has seen.

The global health agency says 12 African countries are experiencing an upward trend of coronavirus, including Algeria, Malawi, Senegal and Zimbabwe.

Moeti says the number of Africans losing lives to the virus is high.

"As this surge sweeps across Africa, we are witnessing a brutal cost, and life-lost deaths have climbed steeply for the past five weeks, jumping 40 percent in the past week," Moeti said. "This is a clear warning our hospitals are at a breaking point. In all, 153,000 people have sadly died. Africa is just 1 percent shy of the peak in fatalities reached in January.

The increase in deaths is partly blamed on the delta coronavirus variant that medical experts say is the most transmittable of all the variants. It has been reported in 21 African countries.



Namibia is one African country where the total number of COVID-19 positives is on the decline. However, more than 1,000 people have died there from COVID-19 in the last month.

Ismail Katjitae is a physician at the Ministry of Health and Social Services in Namibia. He explains why the death rate is so high.

"A high prevalence of comorbidities in some communities, limited capacity in some districts and regions to manage severe and critical cases," Katjitae said. "And a strong misinformation lobby resulting in noncompliance with public health measures, underutilizing available health care services, and delayed complicated presentation in our health facilities.

So far, only 18 million people out of the 1.3 billion living in Africa have been vaccinated. Some African countries blame the slow vaccination process on the shortage of vaccine doses in the global market.

Catherine Kyobutungi is the head of the African Population and Health Research Center. She says African governments should ask their citizens to follow health protocols like washing hands and wearing masks to limit the spread of the virus.

"Other than the usual measures, Africa does not have too many options without really having much of its population vaccinated," Kyobutungi said. "So, the hope is that in the next month around August, many countries will receive at least substantial doses of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine, but before then, keeping in place the usual measures.

Most African countries have eased health measures meant to combat the spread of the virus for economic reasons, and failure to follow those measures is blamed for the spread.



Some African countries expect to get hundreds of thousands of vaccines in the coming weeks as the Aspen pharmaceutical company in South Africa begins producing 400 million vaccines.


The South African government is sending 25,000 soldiers to areas it calls flashpoints as it tries to stop violence from spreading across the country.

Protests against the jailing of former President Jacob Zuma for contempt of court grew into civil unrest late last week.

Mobs have looted and destroyed parts of cities, burning and destroying factories and warehouses. Scores of people have been killed and hundreds injured.

As soldiers stream into areas threatened by mobs, so, too, are vigilantes.

In video sent to VOA by a senior army officer, private citizens can be seen opening fire with pistols, shotguns and rifles on a crowd trying to enter a suburb in the port city of Durban. The mobs were armed with bricks, clubs and large, broad-bladed knives.

Security analysts told VOA that people are taking the law into their own hands amid an erosion of faith in the ability of the police to protect them.

The violence in KwaZulu-Natal, Zumas home province, prompted Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini to plead with his subjects.

It has brought great shame upon us all. I never thought  I would see our own people so complicit in burning down the country.  My fathers people are committing suicide, the king said.

The violence began after Zuma surrendered to prison authorities last week to begin serving a sentence for refusing to testify in an investigation of alleged corruption during his years in office. The investigation has split the African National Congress, which has led the country since apartheid ended 27 years ago.

Zumas supporters took to the streets, but the protests quickly turned into looting, as a country struggling with 30% unemployment, constant power outages and the coronavirus pandemic.


A top Zimbabwean state official has questioned the silence of the West over the deteriorating social, economic and political situation in South Africa and eSwatini while President Emmerson Mnangagwa is appealing for calm in the two southern African nations.

In a tweet, Information Secretary Nick Mangwana said it is interesting to note that the West has been silent about public protests and looting in South Africa and eSwatini.

Mangwana said, Dont get me wrong. We are not looking for their voice. Let be silent. But when its silent on Eswatini, and its silent on South Africa, why are the decibels tuned up to full watts when there is sneezing in Zimbabwe? Is it because we are thought leaders, about the Land or both?

Reacting to his tweet, a person identified as Sotsha Ngulube fired back, saying Mangwana should be reminded about the operations of the Zimbabwe National Army, which shot and killed some people in Harare in 2018 and 2019 during public protests.

Ngulube said, Nick did you see SA police or Army shooting citizens at 45 degrees??? So Far, SA police & Army have been different from Zim. You should only compare Zimbabwe with Eswatini because the regime there behaved like ZanuPF, they turned off the internet & started brutalizing citizens.

Milner Chaka also attacked Mangwana on the Twitter thread, claiming that some Zimbabweans living in South Africa are also looting goods.

Chaka said, The irony is no property was looted and no South Africans participated in the 19 August disturbances. Zimbabweans are heavily involved in looting in South Africa. Undocumented people have quadrupled under this regime yet ED had promised SA things would improve.

At the same time, in a message on his Twitter handle, President Mnangagwa appealed for calm in South Africa.

On behalf of all Zimbabweans, both at home and abroad, we wish that the current challenges plaguing our South African brothers and sisters are resolved peacefully. Only when there is peace in South Africa, is there peace in our region.

Protests erupted in South Africa following the jailing of former South African president, Jacob Zuma, for contempt of court. The Constitutional Court sentenced him to 15 months in prison for declining to appear before a Raymond Zondo Commission of Inquiry probing alleged graft charges laid against the former South African president. Zuma demanded that Zondo should recuse himself as the two had previous clashes over family matters.

The West imposed targeted sanctions on some Zanu PF officials for alleged human rights violations and election rigging.

Pro-democracy groups have protested in eSwatini demanding political reforms. They are claiming that King Swati III is violating peoples rights with impunity. But the eSwatini government has denied any wrongdoing.
Columbus Mavhunga

A Zimbabwean environmental group is suing the government over plans to export elephants to China.

The group, Advocates4Earth, accuses China of subjecting elephants to unhealthy conditions.



In an application to Zimbabwes High Court, Advocates4Earth is seeking to prevent the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority from going through with the export.



Lenin Tinashe Chisaira, who heads Advocates4Earth, says the group just wants authorities to comply with existing laws.

Basically, we are applying for a declaratory order that the Zimbabwe government and its agencies should respect international conventions especially the resolutions that African elephants, African wildlife should not be exported to destinations that are not appropriate for these species that are not natural or historic range, Chisaira said.

We strongly feel that there is a desire by some agencies of the government to violate those agreements by exporting some of our species to countries such as China, without abiding by the existing legal framework, he added.



The court application also cites the countrys environment minister, Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu, in the lawsuit.



Zimbabwes elephant population has grown in recent years, climbing to more than 100,000. Some farmers have complained that the elephants are destroying their crops and grazing lands.



However, the Zimbabwe Wildlife Authority denies it is in the process of exporting elephants to China. Tinashe Farawo, the Authoritys spokesperson, says its nothing but a publicity stunt.



These are people trying to seek relevance. In President [Emmerson] Mnangagwas address he put those people on notice. They are people who are bent on saying a lot of negatives. And they must prove that this is what we are doing... The fact remains - we are not capturing any elephants for export. Nothing of that sort is happening. They must bring the evidence, Farawo said.



In the past Zimbabwe has exported elephants to other countries despite objections from animal rights and environmental groups, such as Advocates4Earth.



On Thursday, officials at the Chinese embassy in Harare refused to comment saying they were not cited in the court papers.


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Massena, NY 13662 (3.1 km SW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Sounded like an explosion and rattled our home. | 6 users found this interesting.

MASSENA, NY (10.8 km E of epicenter) [ Map ] / Strong shaking (MMI VI) / vibration and rolling / 2-5 s : Rumbling and shaking | 5 users found this interesting.

norfolk ny / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : I also heard a rumble and my dogs went crazy barking | 3 users found this interesting.

Liberty Ave. Massena NY (11.7 km E of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / complex motion difficult to describe / 1-2 s : Lots of vibration. Shook my entire house. Loud boom too. I thought a large truck was crashing into my home. It was very sudden and very intense but over very fast as well. Like an explosion. | 2 users found this interesting.

Ingleside, Ontario / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single lateral shake / very short : Sounded/felt like a large explosion went off nearby | 2 users found this interesting.

Morrisburg / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 1-2 s : Heard a huge bang, followed by loud "scraping" noise | 2 users found this interesting.

17.5 km W of epicenter [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : It was a loud rumble | One user found this interesting.

10 km N of epicenter [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : The entire house shook lightly incl next door | One user found this interesting.

Long sault (14.2 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Rumbling | One user found this interesting.

Ault Island (South Stormont), ON, Canada K0C1X0 / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single vertical bump / very short : Small shake | One user found this interesting.

Green Valley / not felt : We live next to a train track..depending on the load, it is an earth quake everyday.. | One user found this interesting.

Osgoode, Ontario (50 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : Heard soft rumble and felt like a train going by close by. But there are no trains nearby. | One user found this interesting.

Ingleside, ON (4.2 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : A load bang, like someone blasting, then the ground shook for a few seconds. Like a semi truck passing your house on a rough road. | One user found this interesting.

Morrisburg Ontario canada / Very weak shaking (MMI II) : Sounded and felt like a very strong roll of thunder | One user found this interesting.

Lunenburg Ontario / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single lateral shake / 1-2 s : Sounded more like thunder than anything. | One user found this interesting.

8.2 km NE of epicenter [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single lateral shake / very short : Heard what sounded like an explosion with a quick jolt. No after shocks yet | One user found this interesting.

Ingleside (5.1 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / very short : sounded like an explosion behind our street | One user found this interesting.

Massena (10.4 km E of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) : The whole house was shaking and rattling, felt like something exploded in my basement | One user found this interesting.

Cornwall / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : In basement. Dog freaked out, jumped on couch | One user found this interesting.

Ingleside, Ontario / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 2-5 s : Rumbling, light shaking. | One user found this interesting.

Long Sault, Ontario / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Light shaking; loud rumble | One user found this interesting.

Cornwall Ontario (10.5 km SW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : The house was rumbling | One user found this interesting.

Cornwall Ontario / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Was lying on bed when felt light shaking, rattling as though a truck was passing by. About 5 or 10 minutes later, both my husband and I felt it again. It was very quick, just seconds. Again felt like a truck rumbling outside. | One user found this interesting.

Potsdam, NY / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : 10 seconds of the floor vibrating mildly along with a loud rumbling sound like a large truck pulling up to the house. | One user found this interesting.

Williamsburg, Ontario (12.7 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 2-5 s : Quite loud, resembling a Hercules aircraft approaching low fly over. | One user found this interesting.

Ingleside, Ontario Canada / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single vertical bump / 1-2 s : Thud noise | One user found this interesting.

Ingleside, Ontario McLaren Campgroubd / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : Very loud bang like an explosion and a lot of rumbling and vibration felt through the ground (was sitting outside) | One user found this interesting.

Massena / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : Flat floor shook | One user found this interesting.

Massena, NY / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Our house shook. | One user found this interesting.

13662 (5.8 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Shaking on 1st floor, loud rumbling that came and went quickly | One user found this interesting.

Norfolk plumbrook road / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : few seconds rumble shake | One user found this interesting.

10.1 km NE of epicenter [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 5-10 s : Loud crack, then rumbling, tapering off for 10 seconds or so. Felt through feet. | One user found this interesting.

Massena NY / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 10-15 s : Felt and heard throughout apartment bldg and outside as well | One user found this interesting.

MASSENA / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : A very quick motion as I was laying in bed that felt like a very minimal shaking. | One user found this interesting.

LONG SAULT ON K0C1P0 (297.7 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s : I thought something blew up nearby | One user found this interesting.

Williamsburg, Ontario / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / very short : Loud noise , believe shaking | One user found this interesting.

Long Sault Ontario / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : Felt and heard it | One user found this interesting.

Lunenburg ontario / not felt / single lateral shake / very short : One loud bang | One user found this interesting.

Cornwall, ontario / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single vertical bump / 1-2 s : Like a distant explosion, a very quick bang. | One user found this interesting.

Ingleside, Ontario / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : Loud rumbling like thunder and felt under my feet while sitting outside | One user found this interesting.

Newington Ontario (15.2 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 10-15 s : Sound like a very long thunder roll | One user found this interesting.

Lunenburg / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s : Rumble, house shake briefly, loud boom sound like an explosion

Ingleside, ontario (10.8 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 20-30 s : Ground was shaking, could hear a loud bang, could hear house shaking

127.7 km ENE of epicenter [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating

MacLaren campground / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / very short : Ground shaking and grumbling.

Massena (10.4 km E of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) : The whole house was shaking and rattling, felt like something exploded in my basement

Laying in bed / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s : Wasnt sure it was a quake at first

92.5 km SSW of epicenter [ Map ] / not felt (reported through our app / not felt

Long Sault Ontario / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s

Ingleside Ontario / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 1-2 s : Like a small thunder nearby

Ingleside (2.7 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / complex motion difficult to describe / 2-5 s : It felt more like an explosion than a quake. I have been in earthquakes before. I am surprised that this was a quake. I live quite near the epicenter of this one. I would say that the initial blast felt more like a 4 but the rumbling afterward felt like a 2.5. I was sitting outdoors when it happened and was waiting for a burst of energy. I thought it was a bomb.

Ingleside Ont / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single vertical bump / 1-2 s

Morrisburg / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 5-10 s

ingleside (5.2 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s : Felt like next door neighbours house was hit by a large truck and exploded. Two quick bangs. Very loud. No trailing off rumble.

Potsdam, NY / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : It felt like a large truck driving by.

Long Sault ON (13.5 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s

Ingleside, ON / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 2-5 s : Didn't think it was an earthquake at first. I felt and heard a slight rumble, thought it was thunder until I looked outside and saw no clouds. Went outside to see if something exploded, so did a few of my neighbour's.

Ingleside, ontario / Weak shaking (MMI III) : Heard noise as well

401.6 km WSW of epicenter [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 5-10 s

My kitchen, 749 county Route 39,massena ny (11.8 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : More noise for me. Big boom like a giant explosion. Front door shook but my neighbor across from me said his walls shook!

Josee Moose Creek ON (24.8 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt

Woodlands camp ground, Ingleside, Ontario (8.2 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s

Laying in bed / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s : Wasnt sure it was a quake at first

Norwood, NY / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : Felt like a snowplow going by, but then realized it wasn't moving.

ingleside (10.9 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s

Cornwall / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s

cornwall / not felt

Long sault / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : Felt the walls shake briefly, my dog freaked out it sounded like a transport truck was driving right beside us.

Woodlands camp ground, Ingleside, Ontario (8.2 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s

Ingleside, ON / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 5-10 s : Heard boom sound like thunder thought something had crashed

Cornwall Ontario / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s

Winthrop NY / 15-20 s : Loud rumbling noise, felt that it happened twice

West Stockholm,NY / not felt

Morrisburg / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / very short : Loud noise, like very low flying plane or heavy truck - both unusual

27.5 km ENE of epicenter [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II)

Ingleside, Ontario / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 2-5 s : Rumbling, light shaking.

Chasemills / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s

23.5 km S of epicenter [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 20-30 s

26.5 km ENE of epicenter [ Map ] / not felt

Massena, NY / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 1-2 s : it felt like a rumble

Prescott / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / vibration and rolling / very short : light rumbling

ingleside ontario / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s

Chesterville / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s

Long sault, ontario (16.3 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / vibration and rolling / 2-5 s

Ingleside on k0c1m0 / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 1-2 s

14.1 km NE of epicenter [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s

Cornwall / not felt : Loud bang!

Iroquois, ontario / not felt

Long Sault / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / very short : Thought something nearby had exploded. Loud and vibrating!

Prescott / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / vibration and rolling / very short : House lightly shook. Felt like vibrating or rolling.

North Lawrence NY / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating

MORRISBURG Ontario / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 15-20 s

Cornwall / Very weak shaking (MMI II)

Williamsburg Ontario / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s

Massena, ny / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s

Chasemills / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s

long sault / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s

Long Sault, ON / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s : I heard a loud bang and felt my house shake.

Massena / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / very short : Loud boom

Lunenburg Ontario / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / very short

Martintown Ontario (33.5 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 15-20 s

Long-Sault / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s

Winchester (30.1 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single vertical bump / very short : One large boom under my feet! Quite spooky

Cornwall / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s

Massena / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s : It was a long rumble and a huge bang. I thought it was an explosion.

Hannawa Falls New York / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 10-15 s : Thought it was on TV but there was a vibration.

Cornwall / not felt

Cornwall ontario / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / single vertical bump / very short

6 km NNE of epicenter [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Very loud

16.2 km WNW of epicenter [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vibration and rolling / 5-10 s

63.4 km E of epicenter [ Map ] / not felt

Morrisburg / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 10-15 s : Was very loud noise thought it was an explosion

Ingleside / Weak shaking (MMI III)

Russell, Ontario / not felt

Ingleside, ON / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 5-10 s

Long Sault / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single vertical bump / 1-2 s : felt like a dynamite blast in a local quarry - loud "boom" and sharp thump

Morrisburg / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Didnt last long. No damage.

Ault Island Ontario (0.5 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single vertical bump / very short : Loud noise

Ault Island, Morrisburg, Ontario, Canada (1.3 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s

Ingleside / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single vertical bump / 2-5 s

Woodlands campground / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s

Cornwall / Light shaking (MMI IV) / simple rolling (tilting sideways along one direction) / 5-10 s

Massena / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single lateral shake / 1-2 s

Massena / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vibration and rolling / 2-5 s

2k0c2k0 / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 1-2 s

Williamsburg Ontario Canada / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 5-10 s

Lunenburg ontario / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 2-5 s

13.4 km NE of epicenter [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s

Long Sault, Ontario / Weak shaking (MMI III)

Massena, NY / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 2-5 s : Jolt

Morrisburg, Ontario / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating
Stowe, VT (05672)

Today

Rain showers this morning with some sunshine during the afternoon hours. High 79F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

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Twitter is under enormous pressure in India this year. But even before the country rolled out strict new rules for tech firms, the company was hit by a wave of requests from the government to remove content or provide user data.

Indian authorities submitted more requests for account information from Twitter in the last six months of 2020 than any other government, the Silicon Valley-based company said in its latest transparency report Wednesday. The number of demands that India made for content removal also spiked 152% to nearly 7,000.

Twitter said that India's requests for user information accounted for 25% of the total it received during the reporting period, which includes data from July 1 to December 31, 2020. Twitter did not comply with over 99% of the requests.

"Notably, this is the first time since we started publishing our transparency report in 2012 where the United States is not the top global requester," the company said, adding that the United States came in second in terms of global volume.

The information requests included routine legal demands and emergency requests from government agencies and law enforcement authorities, the company said.

In India's case, Twitter said it complied with 0.6% of the total 3,615 requests received. The company's rate of compliance in the United States for the period was 59%.

"Where appropriate, Twitter will push back on requests for account information which are incomplete or improper," such as those that are "invalid or overbroad in scope," the company said. In case of emergency requests  which involve the danger of death or serious injury  the company may disclose account details, if it is provided with enough proof that such relevant information can avert those dangers.

Twitter classified just over 150 information requests from India as emergencies. The United States sent 822 such requests, the company said, the highest in the world.

Legal demands made by India to remove or withhold content, meanwhile, shot up 152% during the last six months of 2020 compared to the prior reporting period. Twitter said it complied with just over 9% of those 6,971 demands.

The jump made India the second-highest submitter of such demands in the world after Japan, which made more than 16,000 requests primarily related to narcotics, obscenity, or money lending. The number of demands from Japan marked a 16% decrease from the prior period, though the country still accounted for 43% of all global requests received.

Worldwide, 199 accounts of verified journalists and news outlets were subjected to a total of 361 demands for removal of information, according to the company. It added that 128 of those requests came from India alone.

The report doesn't cover any of 2021, during which time Twitter has been in a tense stand-off with the Indian government over strict new information technology rules.

In February, the company clashed with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology over accounts that the agency wanted taken down during a series of protests by farmers. Twitter complied with some of the requests, but refused to take action against accounts of journalists, activists or politicians.

Weeks after that feud, India introduced the new rules, which among other things require social media companies to create three roles in the country: a "compliance officer" who will ensure their company follows local laws; a "grievance officer" who will address complaints from Indian users about its platforms; and a "contact person" available to Indian law enforcement 24/7. They all have to reside in India. Companies are also required to trace the "first originator" of messages if asked by authorities.

In May, the company expressed concerns about "core elements of the new IT Rules" and the "potential threat to freedom of speech" in the country. A few days later, it pledged to meet the new requirements.

Twitter was recently admonished by a court in Delhi for not meeting the requirements of the new rules in time. The company responded in a court filing last week by saying that it had hired an interim compliance officer. It added in that filing that it will "endeavor in good faith to make an offer of employment to a qualified candidate" within eight weeks for all of the roles.

As of last weekend, the company's website listed a grievance officer and a Bangalore address which Twitter can be contacted.

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The second suspect in a capital murder case is now in the Morgan County jail.

Decatur police said 27-year-old Antone Yarbrough was extradited to Decatur following his arrest in South Carolina.

US Marshals took Yarbrough into custody in Myrtle Beach on June 29.

He was booked into the Morgan Co. jail on a capital murder charge following his extradition Wednesday.

Yarbrough and 21-year-old Mashaud Lewis are charged in the death of 59-year-old Chester Jordan on May 9. Police said Jordan was shot multiple tims and died at the hospital.

Lewis was arrested shortly after the shooting and booked into jail. Both suspects are being held without bond.
Day three of the jury selection process wrapped up Wednesday evening in Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakelys corruption trial. This jury will sit in judgement of Blakely as he gets his first chance to defend himself against the current accusations hes facing.

Blakely was indicted with 11 theft and ethic charges.

This is the first full day media and the public have been allowed inside the proceedings. That's after the judge ruled on a joint motion from the defense and prosecutors asking the media to be allowed inside.

46 potential jurors came to the courthouse at 9 a.m. By this evening, that group was down to 32.

The judge's bailiff says they've seen a group of about 40 to 50 people at the beginning of each day this week. During the jury selection process, the group is essentially interviewed to see if they are fit to serve in the jury.

Only seven people in Wednesday's group said they had never heard of the case against Blakely.

Each person was questioned individually to figure out what they know of the case and if they can be impartial with what they know. Most people said they had only heard of the sheriff being indicted either through the news or talk of town.

They were also individually asked if they knew Mike Blakely personally and their thoughts of him and how he's served as sheriff.

Some said they would feel uncomfortable serving in a jury because they didn't want to feel responsible for a decision on a person's life. While others said it was a privilege to be able to serve in a jury.

After the one on one interviews, everyone came back to the courtroom where both prosecutors and Blakely's defense attorneys asked the group questions.

Both sides asked the potential group jury whether or not they recognize any witnesses they plan to present. If a juror recognized a witness, they were asked if they can still remain impartial when they testify.

The defense said it planned to call witnesses depending on what the state presents. So, it's possible their witnesses aren't called up to the stand.

The group of potential jurors were also told by the judge and the defense attorneys to consider Blakely innocent until proven guilty.

State prosecutors have the responsibility to prove Blakely's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Blakely's attorney Robert Tuten says if any one who serves in the jury has any kind of doubt during deliberations as to whether or not Blakely committed the crimes he is accused of, they are legally responsible to find him not guilty.

A jury is expected to be selected this Friday.
Students in Madison Co. Schools will not be required to wear masks in the classroom for the 2021-2022 school year.

A statement from the district's spokesman said, "Our Superintendent, Mr. Allen Perkins, has announced that masks will be optional in all Madison County Schools, once we return to class. Our first day of classes will be August 4. Of course, we will continue to communicate with the CDC and the Alabama Department of Public Health. We will make any changes necessary to keep our students and staff as safe as possible."

The mask-optional policy is part of the district's "Ready, Set, Forward" plan that will be presented at Thursday night's school board meeting.

The plan also states that MCS staff and students who are fully vaccinated will not have to quarantine if they're exposed to the virus.

You can read the full plan and its covid-19 highlights here.
Bids start for the 66th Eurovision Song Contest after Italy's victory, with the winning venue to be unveiled next month.

A total of 17 Italian cities have launched official bids to host the 2022 Eurovision Song Contest after Rome band Maneskin won the title for Italy in May with the song Zitti e buoni.

Bids have been submitted from large cities including Bologna, Genoa, Florence, Milan, Rome, Turin and Trieste, as well as provincial capitals Alessandria, Matera, Pesaro, Rimini and Viterbo.

There were also candidature bids from the smaller cities and towns of Acireale (Catania), Bertinoro di Romagna (Forli - Cesena), Jesolo (Venice), Palazzolo Acreide (Siracusa) and Sanremo (Imperia).

The submissions have been sent to state broadcaster RAI which will decide on the winner at the end of August.

So who are the main contenders to host Italy's first Eurovision in more than three decades?

Within hours of Maneskin's triumph in May, several cities proposed themselves as suitable candidates, ahead of the official bidding process for the 66th edition of the European song competition.

Among them was Rome which hosted the last Italian Eurovision after the victory of Toto Cutugno in 1990.

Rome mayor Virginia Raggi, currently seeking re-election, put the capital forward as the "perfect stage to relaunch the challenge."

The 1991 edition of the Eurovision was held in Rome's Cinecitta Film Studios while the only other time that Italy hosted the contest, following the victory of Gigliola Cinquetti in 1964, was at the Centro RAI in Naples.

Turin mayor Chiara Appendino was also quick to propose her city as a host for next year's Eurovision, assuring that her administration is already preparing the official bid.

In its favour, Turin was already identified as a potential Eurovision venue in 2017 by RAI ahead of Italy's entry that year, bookies' favourite Francesco Gabbani, who failed to win in the end.

Milan is also seen as a strong candidate, given its experience of hosting the Expo in 2015.

The winning city will be revealed next month.
Eighteen states allow for the removal of a governor by referendum, and the District of Columbia allows recall of its top official, the mayor. Since the start of the pandemic, 14 governors have been the targets of recall efforts, said Joshua Spivak, a senior fellow at the Hugh L. Carey Institute for Government Reform at Wagner College, who runs a blog on recall elections. Most such efforts fail when organizers are unable to collect the required number of signatures by a certain deadline, a difficult and costly endeavor in normal times, made more challenging with the pandemic. Californias 2003 recall of Davis, a Democrat, was the first successful recall of a governor since North Dakota carried out the feat in 1921. In 2012, Wisconsin voters decided against removing their Republican governor, Scott Walker.
Gonzalez, the grandson of immigrants, also praised the role that newcomers have played in this countrys history. America has shown the world that its not only possible to survive, but thrive as a nation that welcomes those seeking a new home and a better life through hard, honest work, he said. We have proven that people from varied backgrounds cannot just coexist, but rally around common values and a shared dream of always doing better.
Ethan Rinks says he is picky when dating and likes things to be orderly. I can sometimes be a control freak and very routine and by the book, said the native of Savannah, Tenn. But this spring when Ethan saw a cutie in the Date Lab column, he decided to toss a little chaos into the mix by applying. I thought it would be good for me to step outside of my box, he said, and have a true blind date. Lets just see how this goes.
Itinerary for first-timers: Plan on staying at least four days and visiting the six islands (Vagar, Streymoy, Eysturoy, Kunoy, Vidoy and Bordoy) connected by roads. (Operate out of Torshavn, on Streymoy.) From the airport, on Vagar, stop in the scenic, historic hamlet of Bour, with its wee lanes and black-painted church. Mulafossur is Vagars much photographed waterfall, plunging hundreds of feet to the sea. Walkable Torshavn has cafes, galleries and shopping emporia. Scope out the art and cultural events at the National Gallery of the Faroe Islands, Nordic House and the Steinprent workshop and gallery, where you can watch demonstrations of traditional lithography. Its an easy two-hour hike from Torshavn to Kirkjubour, an ancient seaside village. If you have time and want to experience a placid, tiny island, take a ferry to Nolsoy. On Eysturoy, with its arresting offshore sea stacks (rock formations), another memorable sight is the dramatic, 650-foot-long gorge in the 400-year-old village of Gjogv. You may even spot seals.
To spur action, Haase recommends drawing an analogy between the excesses that lead to climate change and personal transgressions you wouldnt let slide. If you had a neighbor who dumped oil on your property, for example, youd file complaints against him with your city council. Yet with fossil fuel companies, we let them off the hook, she said. So, you might write your congressman and say, Why arent you putting an end to this? And if our political representatives arent willing to back sensible measures to mitigate climate change, we  as their constituents  can vote them out of office.
When she opened her first exhibit related to the coronavirus pandemic in October, it was a stunning, fluttering expanse of little white flags on the spread of lawn outside the D.C. Armory, tucked away near decaying RFK Stadium. It looked like an early snowfall, and commuters pulled over to gawk and shake their heads at the physical representation of so many covid-19 deaths.
We want people who live in Ward 8 to be able to live as long as people in Ward 3, Bowser said, standing near a line of white hard hats resting on shovels. We want people in Ward 8 to have access to great food, specialists, quality health care. We want to keep you out of the hospital, but if you need to go to the hospital, we want you to have a new hospital and youre going to have one right here.
But the school system appeared to rally in the next academic year, as Brabrand oversaw the return of nearly half of the student body to in-person learning. Grades improved, too, after the school system adopted adjustments  such as replacing Fs with No Mark designations  meant to help compensate students for the difficulties of the pandemic. The superintendent has promised repeatedly that fall 2021 will see all students back in classrooms five days a week, with only children who can prove a medical need allowed to learn remotely. Brabrand will oversee that transition in his last year as superintendent.
You cant fix what you dont measure, Descano said. Ive heard from a lot of members of our community they dont know what goes on inside this building and they dont feel comfortable that they are going to get a fair shake.
Mr. DeGrave looks forward to his day in Court and being acquitted, defense attorney John Pierce said. In the course of his and other trials, we are going to expose what actually happened on January 6, 2021, and who exactly was behind it. The nation cannot move forward until that occurs.
For example, another Jan. 6 defendant pleaded guilty Wednesday to the identical charge as Hodgkins. However, Josiah Colt, 34, of Idaho, faced a sentencing guidelines range three times as high, 51 to 63 months, after admitting that he came armed to Washington and was with others accused of violently interfering with police. Colt, however, entered a cooperation deal, implicating two men he was with in plea papers and agreeing to aid investigators in exchange for a recommendation of leniency.
Marshall Cowan, a clinical and forensic psychologist with the Maryland Department of Health, told the jury he performed a clinical interview with Ramos. Cowan observed that Ramos had a fairly normal childhood, that he had some physical medical issues later in life and that he sought several times in adulthood for anxiety and depression. Cowan then said he put Ramos through several psychological tests, which included screening for if the man was malingering  or exaggerating his symptoms. Cowan found he was not.
The states attorney went on to tell the jury that Ramos was obsessed with his legacy  and he left tokens, as one expert called them, to tell his story. A note in the barrel of his shotgun, a card about survivors guilt to the man who wrote the original Capital Gazette column, a letter to one of the judges in his case, a CD with photos and blueprints Ramos had collected of the newsroom.
It was also the first known instance in which authorities disclosed the existence of a powerful facial recognition system that had been used in thousands of cases across Virginia, Maryland and the District. It was discontinued earlier this month.
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Police said they believe she drove home to the 9200 block of Davis Lane in Lorton, because officers found her car parked in the driveway on June 4 with bagged groceries inside. Police had been called to Lus home by her employer, who asked for a welfare check after she didnt report to work.
The names of the youths arrested were not released because they were being charged as juveniles. They range in age from 13 to 16. One youth was charged with 10 armed robberies and another with eight. Police also said one adult was arrested and charged in two of the armed robberies.
These were among reports received by the Calvert County Sheriffs Office and the Maryland State Police for this edition of Local Living. Anyone with information about these crimes is asked to call 410-535-2800 or 301-855-1194 or use the Submit a Tip feature on the mobile app. Call the Crime Solvers line at 410-535-2880 or the state police Prince Frederick Barrack at 410-535-1400.
Lawson took to social media as soon as her announcement was made Thursday. She promised to fight to defend a legislative provision known as the Hyde Amendment, which bars the use of federal funds to pay for abortions if the mothers life is not at risk or if the pregnancy is not the result of incest or rape.
Biden has made mending fences with Germany, and with Merkel in particular, a high priority after four years in which President Donald Trump made her the target of many of his complaints about Europe. Although they met during last months Group of 7 and NATO summits, she is the first European head of government to travel to Washington since Biden took office.
Both sides have said there has been progress in the talks, with Iran delineating the nuclear retreat it is prepared to make and the administration indicating the sanctions it is prepared to lift. Among the major hurdles to making a final agreement has been Irans insistence of a guarantee that no future U.S. administration will again leave the deal, as well as U.S. and European demands that it include a new Iranian commitment to follow-on talks about its other weapons programs, proxy wars in the region and human rights.
It was the first protest Rodriguez and her friends had ever attended, and her words carried meaning beyond just protecting Jimenez from the rain. She and the hundreds of other young Cubans who have joined protests here and on the island in recent days reflect what some see as a changing of the guard. They believe they can win the fight started by their parents and grandparents. Some of their elders do, too.
What changes might be viable? Perhaps the most likely  as the Vanderbilt law professor Ganesh Sitaraman and I argue in a recent Harvard Law Review Forum essay  is ethics reform. Although federal judges are bound by a code of ethics, no rules govern Supreme Court justices. As court watchdogs have noted, liberal justices have taken trips abroad paid for by outside organizations, and, in one famous episode, Justice Antonin Scalia went on a hunting trip with Vice President Richard B. Cheney in Jan. 2004, three weeks after the court agreed to hear a case involving Cheneys energy task force. But because there is no disclosure requirement, there may be other possible conflicts of interest that the public never learns about. Rules restricting junkets and establishing standards for when justices should recuse themselves from cases because of personal relationships would be welcome.
Care Compare is the website for the public, and the information has to be there, said Toby Edelman, who monitors nursing homes for the nonprofit Center for Medicare Advocacy. If they want it to be somewhere else, they have to let people know. It makes no sense to me.
But beyond the specific agenda, the meeting carried symbolism as Biden highlights his message that the U.S.-European alliance is back on track after the disruptions of the Trump years. Thursdays session also was significant because Merkel, who routinely clashed with President Donald Trump, will soon end her tenure, after 16 years, as leader of the most powerful country in Europe  and, some would say, as de facto leader of Europe itself.
I think the White House has come to the conclusion that something more has to be done, Francis Collins, director of the National Institutes of Health, said Wednesday on CNN. We have to take this on frontally and not simply shrug it off as if, Well, people will eventually come around to the right perspective. Were losing time here. The delta variant is spreading. People are dying. We cant actually just wait for things to get more rational.
The party is heading into midterm elections with Republicans expected to gain House seats due to the addition of new seats in red states and the redistricting of existing seats. The party that holds the presidency typically loses numbers during midterm elections, and there are few Democratic seats to spare. The party holds a nine-seat advantage in the House while the Senate is split 50-50, with Vice President Harris giving the party control.
We didnt ask them to set aside anything  what we want to do, we want to be able to make our case, said state Rep. Senfronia Thompson (D) after the Manchin meeting. We know infrastructure has been a priority . . . and we recognize that. But we also recognize that we are under the gun in our state, and we are bringing this to their attention.
I stand in solidarity with Black women and allies across the country in defense of our constitutional right to vote, Beatty said in a statement regarding her arrest. We have come too far and fought too hard to see everything systematically dismantled and restricted by those who wish to silence us. Be assured this is just the beginning. This is our power. Our message.
The resolution notes that research shows racism undermines the physical, emotional, spiritual, and relational health and wellbeing of People of African Descent, Indigenous Peoples, and other People of Color. It points out how the COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the racial health disparities and the social and political conditions that created them, with Black, Indigenous and Hispanic communities recording a mortality rate more than 2.7 times the rate of white people.
Tarik Jasarevic, a WHO spokesman, said in an email that the agency cannot comment on what the Wuhan government announced last year, but the question of where the first-known patient lived relative to the river was not relevant to competing hypotheses about the origin of the virus. The issue is not important, he wrote, because the current first known patient is most probably not the first case.
Peter R. de Vries was always dedicated, tenacious, afraid of nothing and no one. Always seeking the truth and standing up for justice, Rutte said in a tweet. And that makes it all the more dramatic that he himself has now become the victim of a great injustice.
On Thursday, the European Union also said it was launching legal proceedings against both Poland and Hungary in relation to measures considered discriminatory to their LGBT communities, but the countries have two months to respond to their complaints before a court case might be lodged.
Iraqi people are being promised an easy trip to Europe, a European paradise of sorts, but the problem is, they end up in a Lithuanian forest in a refugee camp, he said. We think those people were lied to, they had to pay a lot of a money to get to the border.
The House of Representatives failed to adopt the budget submitted by the transitional government, Kubis said. Hifters Libyan National Army refused to allow the government to extend its authority to areas it controls, the government and Presidency Council failed to agree on minister of defense who is crucial for implementation of the cease-fire, and the Joint Military Commission postponed the reopening of the coastal road to protest the lack of action on elections and withdrawing mercenaries and foreign forces.
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Mainly sunny to start, then a few afternoon clouds. High 86F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph..

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Mainly clear. Low 64F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
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It was terrifying, it was like I was in hell. The flames all around you. I was screaming, rolling around, they wouldnt go out.

Perth man Tymen Wortel, 70, knows the community heard about the horrific random fire attack that left him covered in excruciating burns. He felt certain he would die. Now he believes its important to put a name and face to the story so others understand the horror of what happened to him.

Tymen Wortel was doused with petrol and set on fire in a random attack that has left the 70-year-old in agony. He no longer wants to remain the anonymous victim of the horrific attack. Credit:Nine News Perth

Just a few weeks ago a stranger rushed towards Mr Wortel as he unlocked his bicycle ready to ride home after having dinner with friends at a St Albans Anglican Church soup kitchen in the inner city suburb of Highgate.

He recalls how a man with petrol in some sort of plastic water gun device allegedly covered him in the liquid and set him on fire.
West Australians overwhelmingly support Premier Mark McGowans tendency to call snap lockdowns, with nearly half of respondents to a recent poll believing Perth should lock down over a single community case.

An analysis by WAtoday on Monday revealed Mr McGowan was the most likely of Australias leaders to issue stay-at-home orders in response to local COVID-19 cases, with an outbreak-to-lockdown rate of 75 per cent.

Premier Mark McGowans tendency to lockdown immediately over one or two cases is overwhelmingly supported by the public.

The results of a survey within the article revealed 43 per cent of the 4300 participants supported a lockdown being called over one case, while one-third of respondents believed a lockdown should be called if an initial cases contacts are tested and further cases of concern are found.

In contrast, a similar survey run across Nine Publishings national mastheads showed just 11 per cent of nearly 12,000 respondents supported a lockdown over a single case  with the majority advocating for stay-at-home orders to only be issued if mystery, or unlinked cases, were detected.
Australia is likely to take until 2023 to produce its own messenger RNA vaccines like those from Pfizer and Moderna, as scientists call for a huge federal investment to match countries that already have manufacturing deals.

The federal government is expecting several commercial bids this Friday to build local facilities to produce the mRNA vaccines, but its plans rely heavily on talks with Moderna to lure the US company.

The federal governments plan to produce mRNA vaccines relies heavily on talks with Moderna to lure the US company. Credit:Getty

Australia is already two months behind other countries in the region in signing a major global partner for local mRNA facilities after Singapore, South Korea and China struck agreements in May for domestic production.

One scientist said the federal governments funding promises so far were wildly insufficient to expand local vaccine research and development to a scale that could attract a company like Moderna.
Polands membership of the EU was plunged into uncertainty after its judges defied a European court order to reverse some of its controversial judicial reforms.

Stanislaw Piotrowicz, a senior Polish judge, said that interim measures by the EUs highest court, which ordered Warsaw to suspend the reforms on Wednesday (Thursday AEST), were not in line with the Polish constitution.

The defiant ruling is the first of two verdicts due to be issued this week by Polish judges which appear to question a fundamental requirement of EU membership: that EU law takes precedence over national laws.

A woman holds a European Union flag outside the Constitutional Tribunal, background in Warsaw. Credit:AP

The ruling prompted Guy Verhofstadt, an MEP and former chief Brexit co-ordinator, to warn that Polands Eurosceptic government was trying to drag the country out of the bloc.
Kentucky police: Deputy shot with his own gun after struggle with suspect
Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan places carnations at a monument during a ceremony in the capital Ankara, Turkey, Thursday, July 15, 2021. Turkey on Thursday marked the fifth anniversary of a failed coup attempt against the government, with a series of events commemorating victims who died trying to quash the uprising. (AP Photo)
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Siegmann wins big in recall election

Dan Siegmann

JUNEAU  Political newcomer Dan Siegmann handily defeated incumbent Dodge County Supervisor Thomas Schaefer in a special recall election Tuesday in District No. 10.

Siegmann, 62, of the Town of Rubicon received 538 votes or 77.2% of the total votes cast compared to Schaefer, 75, of the Village of Neosho, who received 159 votes or 23% of the total 697 votes cast.

The recall election occurred in District No. 10, which includes the Town of Rubicon, Village of Neosho and Wards 18 and 19 in the City of Hartford.

It wasnt just me who won, Siegmann said Wednesday. Everyone did a lot of work helping me to get elected. We now have a voice on the county board. Thats very encouraging.

Siegmann said he viewed the election as a game changer now offering him the opportunity to engage the other supervisors and to discuss the issues before them.

We need to act on fact and not emotion, he said. I just want to get to work. I would hope this (recall) sends a message to the board that they need to get out and talk with the people they represent because theyre not happy with what is going on with county government. There is a frustration of the way things are going out in the community.

Siegmann said the county board has become more responsive to its department heads than the people who elected them.

That has to change, Siegmann said, but we need to work together for the entire county.

Dodge County Clerk Karen Gibson said the election results are unofficial until the county canvasses the election.

She said the canvass meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. Monday. Gibson said then there is a three business day waiting period for Schaefer to request a recount.

I have talked to Mr. Siegmann and he is scheduled to come to the county (administration building) on July 26 for the oath of office and orientation, Gibson said. He will be on the board after he takes the oath.

Gibson said Siegmann will be on Dodge Countys Land Resources and Parks Committee.

Calls made to Schaefers residence were not returned Wednesday.

Schaefer served on the board since 2004.

Siegmann filed the recall petition to oust Schaefer, who supported a draft of an ordinance in June 2020 that would have provided distinct procedures and parameters should a localized health order be needed during the pandemic.

The purpose of the draft was to describe the duties and authorities of the local health officer, prevent communicable diseases and their spread, prevent public health nuisances and human health hazards, prevent food and waterborne illnesses and infections and their spread, and also provide for the administration and enforcement for any violations that may occur.

The draft provoked a community backlash over concerns of constitutional overreach. Nearly 300 demonstrators  including Siegmann  showed up outside the Dodge County Administration Building before a county board meeting in June 2020 protesting the draft ordinance.

Siegmann, who runs the FREE in Dodge Facebook page, tracks issues on the town and county levels of government to ensure they are constitutionally sound and fiscally responsible.

Schaefer said if Siegmann was dissatisfied with his performance he couldve run in April 2020 or April 2022 when his term was up.

At that time, all 33 supervisors terms will expire in 2022, Schaefer said in an earlier interview with the Daily Times. I have and always will represent the district and not one individual or group.

Schaefer is currently seated on the Dodge County Land Resources and Parks Committee and serves on the county boards executive committee.

The last successful recall was in 2003 against Dodge County Supervisor Betty Balian of the Town of Lebanon.


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Weatherford, TX (76086)

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Cloudy and damp with rain, heavy at times, in the morning. Becoming partly cloudy late. High 91F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%..

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What an amazing year for World's Best! This competition has never been as competitive as it was for 2021! The community known competition saw more than 13,000 nominations in round 1 which made up more than 2,300 businesses, people, and places across our community.

CHECK OUT THE WINNERS
MOSCOW (AP)  Pyotr Mamonov, a rock musician, poet and actor who was a prominent figure in Russia's cultural scene for decades, has died. He was 70.

Mamonov died Thursday at a Moscow hospital after two weeks in an artificial coma on a ventilator after testing positive for the coronavirus.

After founding the rock group Zvuki Mu (Sounds of Mu) in 1982, Mamonov became an underground cult figure in Moscow. He gained wider recognition after Soviet restrictions on rock music and alternative culture were lifted in the late 1980s as part of then-leader Mikhail Gorbachev's reforms.

Mamonov further expanded his fame through acting. He performed in numerous films and theater productions in the 1990s.

After becoming deeply religious, he moved to a distant village and left the cultural scene behind in the late 1990s. But he made a triumphant comeback as an actor, starring as a devout Russian Orthodox monk in Pavel Lungin's 2006 movie Island and as Russian Czar Ivan the Terrible in Lungin's 2009 film Tsar.

Mamonov suffered a heart attack and underwent a surgery in 2019.

The head of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill, sent his condolences, saying that Mamonov's remarkable portrayal of religious characters was possible because of his spiritual experience.

Mamonov used the language of art to talk to viewers about eternal subjects: life and death, the sense of being and the value of good, internal struggles and the importance of heeding the voice of conscience, Kirill said.

In a letter to Mamonov's family. Russian Culture Minister Olga Lyubimova hailed the musician-actor as bright, charismatic and strong."

Funeral arrangements were not immediately announced.
While Connecticut continues to see a decline in new vaccinations administered weekly, the highly transmissible delta variant is continuing to spread amid an increase in total infections.

On Thursday, the state reported genetic sequencing identified another 36 infections in the past week that were associated with the delta variant, bringing the total to 87.

The daily positivity rate again remained 1.28 percent for a second straight day, the state reported. Hospitalizations climbed by eight patients to a total of 38. An additional three deaths were recorded in the last week.

It remains uncertain what trajectory the pandemic will take in the coming weeks and months, but in light of the delta variant, health experts and state officials are confident that COVID-19 will not go away anytime soon.

We are still one of the best in the nation, but we are not out of the woods, Gov. Ned Lamont said during one of his public appearances this week.

The infection rate, while still much lower than the worst of the pandemic, has risen by nearly 1 percent since a pandemic low a month ago of 0.30 percent.

While Lamont has lifted nearly all restrictions, including requirements that fully vaccinated people wear masks inside, one requirement remains in limbo: Whether students will need to wear masks in school when they return in the fall.

When asked in recent weeks about what the state will require in the fall, Lamonts response has highlighted the growing concern over the delta variant, which has been circulating in Connecticut since at least early June.

Look, I thought we were out of the woods three weeks ago, then we saw this delta variant, Lamont said this week. We saw how fast it could spread within a community of unvaccinated people.

With the future of the pandemic still unclear, the legislature granted an extension to Lamonts emergency powers that have been used in the past to issue executive orders limiting gathering sizes and requiring masks.

Pointing to the threat of the variants, Lamont said after the vote: I appreciate the legislature giving me a little bit of discretion so we can respond quickly enough to respond if this delta variant gets more dangerous.

While researchers have cautioned that given the number of overall infections has made it difficult to determine the prevalence of the delta variant in Connecticut, top doctors at Yale New Haven Health said it accounts for about 50 percent of new cases  mirroring national statistics on the strains impact.

We're going to be living with the coronavirus in our communities for a long time to come, said Marna P. Borgstrom, the CEO of Yale New Haven Health.

Studies have shown promise that at least the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine gives those who have received the required two doses will have a good defense against the delta variant, but little research has shown how Johnson & Johnson and Moderna vaccines handle the variant, believed by researches to be 60 times more transmissible than the alpha variant, first found in the United Kingdom.

But Connecticut has been struggling since late May with driving up its vaccinate rate. Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show 68.2 percent of all residents have received at least one dose and 62 percent are fully vaccinated.

The states data shows those numbers have been slow to increase through June and early July, with new vaccines administered reaching about 30,000 doses, down from more than 300,000 doses in mid-April.

Now roughly six months into the vaccine program, and in light of the more infectious strains of the virus starting to become dominant, focus has turned to boosters. But there is little clear consensus about whether a booster would be needed. And while the top vaccine-makers are studying boosters, only Pfizer has started to approach federal regulators for possible approval of a third dose.

And given the rapid development of the vaccines against a virus that quickly swept across the world, the durability of the immunity conferred by the vaccine remains among the open questions the pandemic has posed.

For some, its been six months since they were fully vaccinated. This is when we start to get anxious about are vaccines wearing off, said Dr. Rick Martinello, director of infection prevention at Yale New Have Health.

Martinello said it can be a difficult question to answer because from month-to-month, the amount of disease circulating in the community can differ wildly, as much as 100-fold.

In April, he said, community rates were between 50 to 70 cases per 100,000, but now its closer to two cases per 100,000.

Our risk, even if we're behaving exactly the same ... is very different this time of the year, he said.
At stop lights or freeway on and off ramps, youve probably seen people holding signs and asking for money. It can be tempting to hand over your spare change, but next time you may want to think twice.
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In 1975, three American astronauts blasted off aboard an Apollo spaceship hours after two Soviet cosmonauts were launched aboard a Soyuz spacecraft for a mission that included a linkup of the two ships in orbit, and more events that happened on this day in history.

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New Zealand man has plea deal in girl's attempted kidnapping

A New Zealand man who was shot while allegedly trying to kidnap a 14-year-old Virginia girl he met online has reached a plea agreement with federal prosecutors
Office Assistant, OSCE Mission to Moldova, Tiraspol

Organization: OSCE - Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe

Country: Moldova

Field location: Tiraspol

Office: OSCE Tiraspol, Moldova

Grade: G-4

Closing date: Monday, 2 August 2021

Background:

The incumbent works under the supervision of Deputy Head of Mission and in close cooperation with the other national staff in the Tiraspol Office, which is part of the Office of Head of Mission Programme.

Tasks and Responsibilities:

The incumbent has the following responsibilities:

Screens and prioritizes all incoming correspondence, answers telephone calls, e-mail messages; deliver mail and messages to the relevant Mission Members;

Makes appointments with interlocutors in Transdniestria for international Mission Members and coordinates with the Missions Chisinau office the schedule of the Head of Mission, as well as activities of international Mission Members in Transdniestria;

Arranges meetings, seminars and other events in Transdniestria;

Responsible for the administration of the Tiraspol office, especially the management of the payments and purchases as well as the proper functioning of the offices premises and equipment;

Maintains contacts and correspondence in Russian and English as required and subject to prior authorization;

Maintains the office library; maintains and updates files of reports, correspondence, manuals and other relevant materials;

Renders assistance during political negotiations, official visits, meetings, briefings, seminars, conferences and other eventsheld in Tiraspol in which the OSCE, its Mission to Moldova and/or its Tiraspol Office are involved;

Performs other related work as assigned.

For more detailed information on the structure and work of the OSCE Mission to Moldova, please see: https://www.osce.org/mission-to-moldova.

Necessary Qualifications:

Completed secondary education supplemented by formal training in office management principles;

Three years of office work experience preferably with an international organization or embassy;

Some administrative/financial experience or training would be an asset;

Computer literate with practical knowledge of Microsoft Office;

Tags library office assistant office management oral communication republic of moldova

Excellent written and oral communication skills in English and Russian, knowledge of Romanian would be an asset;

Ability to work with people of different nationalities, religions, languages, and cultural backgrounds;

Resident of the Republic of Moldova.

Remuneration Package:

Monthly remuneration, subject to social security deduction is EUR 540.00. OSCE salaries are exempt from taxation in Moldova. Social benefits include participation in the Cigna medical insurance scheme and the OSCE Provident Fund.

If you wish to apply for this position, please use the OSCEs online application link found under http://www.osce.org/employment. The deadline for submitting the application is July 25, 2021.

Please note that CVs and other applications submitted in different formats than the OSCE Application Form will not be reviewed. Applications received after the deadline would not be considered.

The OSCE retains the discretion to re-advertise the vacancy, to cancel the recruitment, to offer an appointment at a lower grade or to offer an appointment with a modified job description or for a different duration. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages qualified female and male candidates from all national, religious, ethnic and social backgrounds to apply to become a part of the organization.Only short-listed candidates will be contacted and informed of the results of the recruitment for this post.

Additional Information

Requisition ID: HOM000001

Contract Type: Fixed-Term

Grade: G4

Location: OSCE Mission to Moldova, Tiraspol

Posting Date: Jul 5, 2021

External Closing Date: Aug 2, 2021

Job Type: Contracted

Job Level: General Services

Employee Status: Fixed Term

Schedule: Full-time

Education Level: Associates Degree / College Diploma

Link to the organizations job offer: https://unjobs.org/vacancies/1625511800831
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CALGARY - Farmers are calling for emergency disaster relief as drought ravages crops and pastures across the Prairie provinces and beyond.

Farm hand Connor Hunt bales a hay crop near Cremona, Alta., Monday, July 17, 2017. Farmers are calling for emergency relief as drought ravages crops across the Prairie provinces. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

CALGARY - Farmers are calling for emergency disaster relief as drought ravages crops and pastures across the Prairie provinces and beyond.

Scorching temperatures and little to no rainfall have left crops in poor condition across wide swaths of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. In some parts of the country, grasshoppers have infested fields. Several municipalities have declared states of agricultural disaster and ranchers say they are running out of hay to feed their cattle.

On his ranch near Moose Jaw, Sask., Kelcy Elford said conditions are the driest he's seen in more than 20 years. Much of the crop he planted for grazing didn't germinate at all and the parched soil is cracking. Watering holes on his land are either going dry or are algae-covered, and some have become so alkaline they're actually poisonous to cattle.

"When you look over some of the pastures its a brown, almost gold colour. Because the grass that did grow here cooked after it grew," said Elford, who is president of the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association. "In the areas where its quite bad it almost looks grey. Theres just no moisture there whatsoever.

Drought conditions are also causing problems in western Ontario and in B.C., where active wildfires are significantly impacting agricultural producers.

Brady Stadnicki, spokesman for national lobby group the Canadian Cattlemen's Association, said the situation is so widespread there are concerns it could result in a long-term reduction in the size of the Canadian cattle herd. He said CCA is hearing reports from ranchers across the country who say they may have to sell off up to 40 per cent of their herds before winter because they know they won't have enough food for them.

"We're hearing theres some hay that isnt even being sold at a price. Its going for auction because its so valuable," Stadnicki said. Theres really big implications for the industry here. Thats a huge priority for us, to maintain that national cow herd."

The government of Saskatchewan has already announced some drought relief, and will allow grain farmers with crop insurance to write off crops that have been damaged by sun and heat.

Cattle ranchers will then be able to go in and salvage what they can for feed. Saskatchewan is also providing more funding for water projects like wells and dugouts.

The CCA and other farm groups are pushing for other provinces to follow suit. They are also calling for emergency relief funding through the AgriRecovery framework, a federal-provincial disaster assistance program. The country's agriculture ministers discussed the issue at a virtual federal-provincial-territorial meeting Thursday.

Federal Agriculture Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau said in a statement that she was working closely with her provincial partners to monitor and respond to the evolving drought situation in the western parts of Ontario, the Prairies and British Columbia.

She said the federal government is ready to do what it can to make sure its programs are adequately responding to the crisis, including business risk management programs.

In particular, she said that provinces affected by the drought could invoke the late participation provision of AgriStability to allow more producers to access the support the program provides.

Bibeau said she has urged Prairie governments to match the federal offer to raise AgriStability compensation rate to 80 per cent, "which would benefit distressed farmers now more than ever."

"This change would mean an added $75 million nationally into the pockets of farmers who need it the most every year," Bibeau said following the meeting.

Dean Hubbard, who farms near Claresholm in southern Alberta, said the temperature hit 36C on his property on June 30 and is forecast to hit that same eye-popping number on Monday. There is no rain expected in at least the next 10 days.

Our peas at this point have very few pods, and theyre so short Im not sure how anyone would harvest them. The spring wheat is quite thin and very short," Hubbard said. "There's been no other year like this."

Hubbard said in some parts of Alberta, even if rain comes now, it will be too late to salvage much of the crop.

"Mentally it gets pretty tough," he said. Just the fact of putting so much work into getting a crop and watching it wither up on you, to me that bothers me."

This summer's drought follows multiple consecutive years of below-normal precipitation in many parts of farm country. Experts say severe weather events will become more common in years to come due to climate change.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 15, 2021.
OTTAWA - The military general overseeing the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines across the country says Canada is moving to a "more nuanced" approach as the supply of doses is on the verge of outstripping demand.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau listens as Brig.-Gen. Krista Brodie, Vice President of Vaccine Logistics and Operations at the Public Health Agency of Canada, is seen via videoconference at a news conference on the COVID-19 pandemic, in Ottawa, on Friday, June 4, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang

OTTAWA - The military general overseeing the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines across the country says Canada is moving to a "more nuanced" approach as the supply of doses is on the verge of outstripping demand.

Brig.-Gen. Krista Brodie says more than two million doses of vaccine are already being held back because provinces have said they can't use them yet  a big change from when all newly arrived doses were shipped around the country as quickly as possible.

"In the coming weeks, we will cross a symbolic threshold of 66 million doses, signalling that there are enough doses in Canada to vaccinate every currently eligible Canadian," Brodie said at a virtual news conference from Ottawa Thursday.

"As we pivot from limited supply to sufficient supply, we are implementing a more nuanced approach to ensure that the vaccines are stewarded in a manner that best supports Canada's enduring domestic needs, as well as optimizes options for supporting global vaccination efforts."

Provinces can draw more doses from the reserved amount when and if they need to do so.

Canada's vaccination rate remains among the highest in the world, but is starting to slow as the pool of people still looking for a first or second dose shrinks.

Health Canada has not responded to a question asking how many doses of each vaccine are in that reserve or when they expire. Canada has already said it plans to donate the rest of its expected shipments of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine  17.7 million doses  to the COVAX global vaccine-sharing alliance.

Those doses will be shipped to developing countries that are nowhere close to the level of vaccination Canada now enjoys. In Africa, about three per cent of the population has now received at least one dose, and 1.4 per cent are fully vaccinated.

As of Thursday, more than 69 per cent of Canadians had at least one dose, and almost 47 per cent were fully vaccinated.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the World Health Organization, warned countries such as Canada, where vaccinations are high and case loads under control, to remember the pandemic is not over. On Thursday, the WHO reported the number of COVID-19 deaths in Africa jumped 43 per cent over the last week, as the Delta variant continues its devastating spread.

Several provinces indicated Thursday that they've had to destroy some doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine that expired July 1 before it could be used. The doses had already had their expiry date extended by Health Canada for another month.

Ontario's Ministry of Health said Thursday it has 3,190 doses of AstraZeneca that will be destroyed, Prince Edward Island said it is destroying 3,200 doses and New Brunswick 960.

Demand for AstraZeneca plummeted in May after the National Advisory Committee on Immunization said the mRNA vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna were preferred because they weren't associated with the rare but serious side-effect of blood clots potentially linked to AstraZeneca.

Canada has yet to say when or if it will donate any doses of Pfizer or Moderna. Procurement Minister Anita Anand said there will be 95 million doses of the two vaccines delivered by the end of September. That is at least 20 million doses more than Canada could use even if 100 per cent of Canadians chose to get fully vaccinated.

Most polls suggest about 80 per cent of Canadians will be vaccinated. Currently vaccines aren't authorized for kids under the age of 12, with hopes vaccine trials on younger children will be finished by the end of the summer.

Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc said Thursday Canada will keep enough doses to at least ensure supply for younger children when they become eligible. There are about 4.8 million kids in Canada under the age of 12.

"We will never do anything that will jeopardize our ability to have, quickly and safely, access to all the vaccines necessary to immunize any eligible Canadian," LeBlanc said.

Tedros has chastised wealthier countries for vaccinating children, who are at the lowest risk for serious illness from COVID-19, while vulnerable people in other countries can't get access to a vaccine.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 15, 2021.

Note to readers: This is a corrected story. A previous version erroneously attributed to Ontario Health information about the number of Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine doses that would be destroyed.
ST. JOHN'S, N.L. - Health officials are today confirming 23 new COVID-19 cases among the crew of a Portuguese fishing vessel anchored off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador.

A container ship makes it's way through the Narrows out of St. John's harbour on Tuesday May 11, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sarah Smellie

ST. JOHN'S, N.L. - Health officials are today confirming 23 new COVID-19 cases among the crew of a Portuguese fishing vessel anchored off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Provincial health authorities say 31 crew members aboard the Princesa Santa Joana have now tested positive for the disease, including one seafarer who is in hospital.

Karl Risser, an Atlantic Canadian inspector with the International Transport Workers' Federation, told The Canadian Press Wednesday there are 39 people on board the ship.

Meanwhile, 14 crew members tested positive last week for COVID-19 aboard a bitumen tanker, the Iver Ambition, which is anchored near the fishing vessel, and public health officials said today that number remains unchanged.

Both vessels are in Conception Bay, about 25 kilometres west of St. John's.

In May, a bulk carrier owned by Fednav, an international shipping company headquartered in Quebec, also anchored in the bay and waited out COVID-19 infections among 14 of its crew members.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 15, 2021.
JOHANNESBURG (AP)  In one of the largest deployments of soldiers since the end of white minority rule, 25,000 South African troops began taking up positions Thursday to help quell weeklong riots sparked by the imprisonment of former President Jacob Zuma. At least 117 people have been killed in the violence, authorities said.

Volunteers participate in the cleaning efforts at Soweto's Diepkloof mall outside Johannesburg, South Africa, Thursday July 15, 2021. A massive cleaning effort has started following days of violence in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay)

JOHANNESBURG (AP)  In one of the largest deployments of soldiers since the end of white minority rule, 25,000 South African troops began taking up positions Thursday to help quell weeklong riots sparked by the imprisonment of former President Jacob Zuma. At least 117 people have been killed in the violence, authorities said.

The government said 10,000 soldiers were on the streets by Thursday morning patrolling alongside police, and the South African National Defence Force had also called up all of its reserve force of 12,000 troops.

In a show of strength, a convoy of more than a dozen armored personnel carriers brought soldiers into Gauteng province, South Africa's most populous, which includes the largest city, Johannesburg, and the capital, Pretoria.

Buses, trucks, airplanes and helicopters were also being used to move the large deployment of troops to trouble spots in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal province that have seen violence in mainly poor areas.

The unrest erupted last week after Zuma began serving a 15-month sentence for contempt of court for refusing to comply with a court order to testify at a state-backed inquiry investigating allegations of corruption while he was president from 2009 to 2018.

Volunteers participate in the cleaning efforts at Soweto's Diepkloof mall outside Johannesburg, South Africa, Thursday July 15, 2021. A massive cleaning effort has started following days of violence in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. The violence erupted last week after Zuma began serving a 15-month sentence for contempt of court for refusing to comply with a court order to testify at a state-backed inquiry investigating allegations of corruption while he was president from 2009 to 2018. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay)

Protests in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal quickly escalated into a spree of theft in township areas, although it has not spread to South Africas seven other provinces, where police are on alert.

More than 2,200 people have been arrested for theft and vandalism and 117 people have died, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, acting minister in the presidency said Thursday. Many were trampled to death in chaotic stampedes when shops were being looted, according to police.

"These are not demonstrations. This is economic sabotage and we are investigating with a view to apprehending the instigators," Ntshavheni said at a briefing Thursday. One person has been arrested and 11 others are under surveillance for inciting and planning the unrest, she said.

The armed patrols have brought stability to Gauteng, authorities said. Army troops stood guard at the large Maponya mall in Soweto, which was one of the few retail centers not badly hit by the rampage but remained closed.

Volunteer groups cleaned up shattered glass and debris from shops that had been stormed and looted in Johannesburg's Soweto, Alexandra and Vosloorus areas.

"I spoke to some of the guys who are unemployed in my area to come and help. The mayor supported us with transport to get here. We came here with two buses," said George Moswetsa, a resident of Vosloorus in eastern Johannesburg who was helping to clean up a mall that had been trashed.

Clean up operations get underway at a shopping centre in Vosloorus, near Johannesburg, Thursday, July 15, 2021. South African police and the army are struggling to bring order to impoverished areas of South Africa rocked by weeklong unrest and days of looting sparked by the imprisonment last week of ex-President Jacob Zuma. (AP Photo/Themba Hadebe)

The unrest, however, continued Thursday in KwaZulu-Natal, Zuma's home province. There were renewed attacks on shopping centers and several factories and warehouses were smoldering after being hit by arson attacks.

Police discovered more than 10,000 rounds of ammunition in Durban on Wednesday night, which Minister of Police Bheki Cele said belonged to people who were instigating the violent riots in the province.

The continued violence in KwaZulu-Natal appears well-planned, said South African analyst William Gumede.

"In KwaZulu-Natal, its well-coordinated, well-funded. If you look at it, strategic commercial hubs were blocked, strategic roads were blocked at really key points. It was very organized," said Gumede, chairman of the Democracy Works Foundation, a group supporting governance in Africa.

Zuma, throughout his political career, including his nine years as president, acquired many allies in South Africas military and security services who were reluctant to respond to the violence in his home province, Gumede said.

"The arson, the looting and then the burning of malls, the burning of warehouses, I mean, that indicates a really strategic destruction of the economy of KwaZulu-Natal," said Gumede. "Theres a whole lot of organization behind that."

Soldiers and police worked to reopen the N2 and N3 toll highways, which have been closed for days as burned-out trucks blocked the roads. The highways are important transport routes carrying fuel, food and other goods to all parts of the country and their prolonged closure threatens to cause shortages of essential goods.

The rail line to the strategic Indian Ocean ports of Durban and Richard's Bay was also closed by the unrest, the state-owned transportation company, Transnet said. The 688-kilometer (427-mile) rail line ferries hundreds of tons of goods weekly to the ports, including vehicles, gold ore, aviation fuel, petrol, wheat and citrus fruit. The goods are then shipped to markets in Asia, Europe, and the United States.

Security forces increased their presence in the Durban suburb of Phoenix, where the riots caused racial tensions to flare. The predominantly Indian residents of Phoenix had been patrolling their area against the unrest and are accused of shooting Black people suspected of being rioters.

"Lives have been lost. The communities have a standoff and are in a bad way because it is the Indian community and the neighboring communities, who are African," Cele told a news conference in Phoenix, where he said 15 people had been killed.

Gumede said the way forward for South Africa is to prosecute the perpetrators, both those that stole property and those who may have instigated the violence.

"This is going to be very important," the analyst said. "First to restore the rule of law in South Africa and to prevent impunity, because if people can get away with looting without being prosecuted, they will do it again. ... So its going to be very important. I think we may have to set up special courts."

In neighboring Zimbabwe, the police issued a warning Thursday against people getting goods stolen from South Africa.

"With sad events happening in South Africa, the Zimbabwe Republic Police will not hesitate to arrest anyone who has received or is in possession of stolen goods from South Africa," the police statement said, advising people to have receipts for verification that goods were purchased legally. "A criminal in South Africa is a criminal in Zimbabwe."

The largest deployment of soldiers since South Africa won democracy in 1994 was in March 2020, when 70,000 army troops were sent out to enforce the countrys strict lockdown to combat the spread of COVID-19.

This story has been corrected to show that this one of the largest deployments of troops in South Africa, not the largest.
ATLANTA (AP)  Sonya and Steve McKaig were close friends with Jim Beck until they got a look at the evidence that federal investigators had gathered against the now-suspended Georgia insurance commissioner. Then the friendship ended with the McKaigs saying they learned Beck was embezzling.

ATLANTA (AP)  Sonya and Steve McKaig were close friends with Jim Beck until they got a look at the evidence that federal investigators had gathered against the now-suspended Georgia insurance commissioner. Then the friendship ended with the McKaigs saying they learned Beck was embezzling.

I believed in Jim Beck, Steve McKaig testified Wednesday, the second day of Beck's trial in federal court in Atlanta. I believed he was an honorable man, an honest man with great ideas for Georgia, and he had been my friend.

The husband and wife testified Tuesday that at Beck's behest they started doing business with the Georgia Underwriting Association. Beck directed they invoice the insurer for hundreds of thousands of dollars on behalf of a company named Green Technology Services, according to the testimony. Then, they said, they sent those checks to Beck.

Then Beck would hand the checks to his cousin, Matthew Barfield, who testified he would skim 10% without doing any other work besides creating invoices and give the rest to Beck. Barfield testified Beck told him that Beck was keeping 10% for himself and passing the rest to someone doing property inspections and collecting data.

But prosecutors say the McKaigs and Barfield, who haven't been criminally charged, were part of Beck's scheme to steal more than $2 million from the Georgia Underwriting Association, an insurer of last resort that Beck managed before he was elected insurance and safety fire commissioner in 2018.

Months after taking office in 2019, Beck was indicted on charges of mail fraud, wire fraud, money laundering and filing false tax returns.

Beck's defense has yet to present its case. Lawyers argued Tuesday as the trial opened that Beck hadn't hurt the association but instead turned it from losses to profits. They argue that Beck was an innovator and that even if his methods were unconventional, there's no proof he meant to hurt the association. They also suggested Green Technology Services provided useful data, even if witnesses were unaware.

Sonya McKaig testified that Beck asked her to start reviewing insurance applications for the association, which writes coverage for property owners who can't find it on the normal insurance market. The Georgia Underwriting Association, authorized under state law, is owned by state-regulated insurers who share in its risks.

Both McKaigs testified they did real work, although most billings were for money flowing to Green Technology Services.

McKaig said she reviewed information on applications, allowing GUA to charge correct premiums. Beck directed her each month to roll into her bill a separate bill from Green Technology Services. That amount was typically $28,700 a month, with Beck telling McKaig to mark up the amount by another 5% for herself, according to her testimony.

McKaig said she never had contact with Green Technology or Barfield. Bills for Green Technology were emailed by Beck from his personal email address, which Sonya McKaig said Beck directed her to use for correspondence. After getting paid by GUA, Sonya McKaig said, she would write a check to Green Technology that she would send marked personal and confidential to Beck at GUA's office.

This was a pretty significant amount of money that he was in receipt of and he, being a hands-on manager, want to make sure the funds were received, Sonya McKaig testified.

Steve McKaig testified Beck asked him to call people who filed water damage claims, advising them how to clean up and limit costly damages. Steve McKaig created a website and tip sheets.

People would be delighted that someone would call, McKaig testified.

But like his wife, Beck directed Steve McKaig to also bill GUA on behalf of Green Technology. Steve McKaig testified that Beck told him GUA was paying $200,000 to Green Technology to provide reinsurance against water damage. Reinsurance is when an insurer contracts with someone else to share part of the risk. Green Technology was not a reinsurance company, making the arrangement unusual, but Steve McKaig testified Beck told him Green Technology was owned by an unnamed rich investor who would bear the risk directly in exchange for the money. Like his wife's company, Beck would send Steve McKaig invoices from Green Technology to roll into his own bills, according to the testimony. Steve McKaig said he would then cut checks to Green Technology and send them to Beck.

Both McKaigs said they never questioned Beck's actions until prosecutors called them before a grand jury.

I trusted him, Susan McKaig said. I trusted his wife. I felt like there were no better people.

Defense attorney Bill Thomas suggested the McKaigs hadn't seen the whole picture, but Susan McKaig said she had seen enough: We didn't wish to have any further contact.

Follow Jeff Amy on Twitter at http://twitter.com/jeffamy.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP)  A bill that would require doctors to tell women undergoing drug-induced abortions about a disputed method for potentially stopping the abortion process was introduced Thursday in the Ohio House.

FILE - In this Aug. 16, 2019 file photo, abortion protesters attempt to handout literature as they stand in the driveway of a Planned Parenthood clinic in Indianapolis. A federal judge has blocked a new Indiana law that would require doctors to tell women undergoing drug-induced abortions about a disputed treatment for potentially stopping the abortion process. The ruling Wednesday, June 30, 2021, came just before the so-called abortion reversal law adopted by Indianas Republican-dominated Legislature was to take effect Thursday. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP)  A bill that would require doctors to tell women undergoing drug-induced abortions about a disputed method for potentially stopping the abortion process was introduced Thursday in the Ohio House.

The legislation would require physicians who perform or induce a chemical abortion to inform a patient prior to, or soon after, taking the first of two pills used in the process that it may be possible to reverse the process, a position disputed by experts.

Republican state Reps. Kyle Koehler and Sarah Fowler Arthur, the bill's sponsors, characterized the proposal as an extension of Ohio's existing informed consent laws. Their legislation was supported and praised by Ohio Right to Life, the state's largest anti-abortion organization.

It also would require the Ohio Department of Health to provide information on its website about abortion pill reversal.

Women deserve to have all relevant medical information provided to them when making healthcare decisions," Koehler said in a release. This bill does not require women to reverse their abortions. Instead, this legislation provides scientific and proven medical information to mothers in crisis.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has said the idea that doses of progesterone can reverse a medication abortion is not supported by science, rather based on unproven, unethical research that was not properly monitored or reviewed.

The abortion-rights advocacy group NARAL Pro-Choice Ohio said the bill is founded in lies about how medication abortion works and (is) an attempt to spread more misinformation about abortion care.

Six states  Arkansas, Idaho, Kentucky, Nebraska, South Dakota and Utah  have similar requirements in place, while laws in Indiana, North Dakota, Oklahoma and Tennessee have been blocked by legal challenges, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research group that supports abortion rights. A similar law is taking effect this month in West Virginia.
LONDON (AP)  Heres some of what happened while the world was distracted by the coronavirus: Hungary banned the public depiction of homosexuality. China shut Hong Kongs last pro-democracy newspaper. Brazils government extolled dictatorship. And Belarus hijacked a passenger plane to arrest a journalist.

FILE - In this Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 file photo, participants with a sign reading "Stop Lawlessness" and wearing anti-COVID-19 overalls take part in a protest against new pandemic restrictions and planned lockdown during the holiday season before the Health Ministry in Warsaw, Poland. The coronavirus pandemic has upended life around the globe, but it has hasnt stopped the spread of authoritarianism and extremism. Some researchers believe it may even have accelerated it, but curbing individual freedoms and boosting the reach of the state. Since COVID-19 hit, Hungary has banned children from being told about homosexuality. China shut Hong Kongs last pro-democracy newspaper. Brazils president has extolled dictatorship. Belarus has hijacked a passenger plane. A Cambodian human rights lawyer calls the pandemic a dictator's dream opportunity. But there are also resistance movements, as protesters from Hungary to Brazil take to the streets to defend democracy. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski, File)

LONDON (AP)  Heres some of what happened while the world was distracted by the coronavirus: Hungary banned the public depiction of homosexuality. China shut Hong Kongs last pro-democracy newspaper. Brazils government extolled dictatorship. And Belarus hijacked a passenger plane to arrest a journalist.

COVID-19 has absorbed the worlds energies and isolated countries from one another, which may have accelerated the creep of authoritarianism and extremism across the globe, some researchers and activists believe.

COVID is a dictators dream opportunity, said Theary Seng, a Cambodian-American human rights lawyer who has been indicted on charges including treason in the ostensibly democratic southeast Asian nation, where Prime Minister Hun Sen has been in power for more than three decades.

Human Rights Watch accuses Cambodias government of using the pandemic as cover to imprison political opponents without due process. Scores have been indicted and face mass trials.

When it comes to government opposition, the fear of COVID, on its own and as a political weapon, has substantially restricted mobility for a gathering or movement to take shape, Seng said.

The biggest global public health emergency in a century has handed power to government authorities and restricted life for billions of people.

Luke Cooper, a London School of Economics researcher and author of the book Authoritarian Contagion, said the vast economic, health and social resources poured into fighting the pandemic mean the state is back as a force to manage society and to deliver public goods.

Restrictions on civil liberties or political opponents have been stepped up during the pandemic on several continents.

For a decade in Hungary, conservative nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban has curtailed media and judicial freedom, criticized multiculturalism and attacked Muslim migrants as a threat to Europes Christian identity.

During the pandemic, Orbans government brought in an emergency powers bill allowing it to implement resolutions without parliamentary approval -- effectively a license to rule by decree. In June, it passed a law prohibiting the sharing of content portraying homosexuality or sex reassignment with anyone under 18. The government claims the purpose is to protect children from pedophiles, but it effectively outlawed discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity in schools and the media.

Polands conservative government has chipped away at the rights of women and gay people. A ruling last year by a government-controlled court that imposed a near-total ban on abortion triggered a wave of protests that defied a ban on mass gatherings during the virus outbreak.

In India, the worlds biggest democracy, populist Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been accused of trying to silence voices critical of his administrations response to a brutal pandemic wave that tore through the country in April and May. His government has arrested journalists and ordered Twitter to remove posts that criticized its handling of the outbreak after introducing sweeping regulations that give it more power to police online content.

Even before the pandemic, Modis ruling Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party was accused by opponents of squashing dissent and introducing policies aimed at refashioning a multifaith democracy into a Hindu nation that discriminates against Muslims and other minorities.

In Russia, the government of President Vladimir Putin has used the pandemic as its latest excuse to arrest opposition figures. Associates of jailed opposition figure Alexei Navalny have been subjected to house arrest and charges that the mass protests against his arrest violated regulations on mass gatherings.

In neighboring Belarus, authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko extended his quarter-century iron grip on power by winning an August 2020 election that the opposition -- and many Western countries -- said was rigged. The huge protests that erupted were met with tear gas, rubber bullets and mass arrests.

Then, in May, a Ryanair plane flying from Athens to Vilnius was forced to land in the Belarusian capital of Minsk after the crew was told of an alleged threat. Opposition journalist Raman Pratasevic, a passenger, was taken off the plane along with his girlfriend and arrested.

Western nations called the forced diversion a brazen hijacking and slapped sanctions on Belarus, but those seem unlikely to induce Lukashenko to change his ways and underscore the weakness of democracies in confronting hardline regimes. Hungarys acts have drawn sharp words from fellow European Union leaders, but the 27-nation bloc has no unified response to restrictive regimes like those in Hungary or Poland.

Even before COVID-19 came along, extremism was on the march.

Over the last 15 years, authoritarian politics has replicated all over the world, Cooper said.

Democracy feels very fragile. Democracy doesnt have a clear vision for what its trying to do in the 21st century.

The 2008 global financial crisis, which saw governments pump billions into teetering banks, shook confidence in the Western world order. And the years of recession and government austerity that followed boosted populism in Europe and North America.

In China, authorities saw the 2008 economic crash as evidence that they, and not the worlds democracies, were on the right path.

Historian Rana Mitter, director of the University of Oxford China Center, said the crisis persuaded Chinas communist government that the West no longer had lessons to teach them. Since then, Beijing has increasingly flexed Chinas economic muscle abroad while cracking down on opposition inside its borders.

In recent years, hundreds of thousands of Muslim Uyghurs have been confined in re-education camps in Chinas western Xinjiang region, where activists and former detainees accuse authorities of imposing forced labor, systematic forced birth control and torture. Beijing instead characterizes the camps as vocational training centers.

Beijing also has tightened control on Hong Kong, stifling dissent in the former British colony. Protesters, publishers and journalists critical of Beijing have been jailed and the last remaining pro-democracy newspaper, Apple Daily, stopped publishing in June after the arrest of its top editors and executives.

When the coronavirus first emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan, authorities responded firmly -- though far from transparently -- with draconian lockdowns that got the virus in check.

Mitter said the pandemic has cemented a view -- among many ordinary Chinese, as well as the countrys leaders -- that something had gone very wrong in terms of the way in which the democratic world had dealt with the virus, and something had gone right in China.

That is now being used very much as a lesson, not just about the pandemic, but about the virtues of Chinas system as opposed to the systems of liberal countries, he said.

Last year, curfews and travel restrictions also became commonplace across Europe. People in France needed to show a signed declaration to travel more than 1 kilometer (just over a half-mile) from home. And Britons were banned by law from going on vacation abroad, while some attendees at a London vigil for a murdered woman were arrested for gathering illegally.

British lawmakers have expressed concern about the scope of the Conservative governments emergency powers, many passed without debate in Parliament.

Since March 2020, the government has introduced a large volume of new legislation, much of it transforming everyday life and introducing unprecedented restrictions on ordinary activities, said Ann Taylor, an opposition Labour Party politician who chairs the House of Lords Constitution Committee. Yet parliamentary oversight of these significant policy decisions has been extremely limited.

Politicians and intelligence agencies in the West also have warned of the threat from coronavirus conspiracy theories that dovetail with existing extremist narratives. Many countries have seen large anti-lockdown, anti-mask, anti-vaccine protests attended by a mix of the far right, the far left and assorted conspiracists.

The British government has warned of extremists exploiting the crisis to sow division and undermine the social fabric of our country, with different hate groups variously blaming Muslims, Jews and 5G phone technology for the pandemic.

But there are signs of fighting back. The pandemic also has boosted trust in scientists and spurred demands for more accountable political leadership.

In Hungary, which has one of the worlds highest per-capita coronavirus death rates, there is growing opposition both to the governments pandemic policies and to its wider authoritarian thrust, and thousands have taken to the streets in support of academic freedom and LGBT rights. With an election due in 2022, a six-party opposition coalition has united to try to unseat Orbans Fidesz party.

Both extremism and resistance can be seen in Brazil, where the far-right President Jair Bolsonaro has expressed nostalgia for the countrys two-decade military dictatorship and last year attended protests against the countrys courts and Congress. He dismissed the virus as a little flu, cast doubt on the effectiveness of vaccines and opposed social and economic restrictions.

Renato Meirelles, director of Brazilian polling company Locomotive Institute, said authoritarianism had advanced through a strategy of fake news and attacks on factual truth. The next step will be questioning the electronic vote and, as such, the result of the next election, he said.

Bolsonaro has so far been held in check by Brazils institutions, especially the Supreme Court, which stopped him from preventing states and cities from implementing restrictions to curb COVID-19 and has ordered an inquiry into the governments pandemic response. And protests have finally spilled out onto the streets. Twice over the past month, demonstrators marched in dozens of cities across the country.

Im here to fight for the rights of those in need, for the rights of my children, for my right to live, to have vaccines for all, said Claudia Maria, a protester in Rio de Janeiro.

In the United States, President Joe Biden has veered away from the populism of Donald Trump, but a Republican Party radicalized by the former presidents supporters has every chance of winning power again.

Cooper, of the LSE, said the authoritarian tide was unlikely to recede soon.

This is a struggle between democracy and authoritarianism thats going to last decades, he said.

Associated Press Writers Jim Heintz in Moscow, Justin Spike in Budapest, David Biller in Rio de Janeiro, Christopher Bodeen in Beijing, Sheikh Saaliq in New Delhi and Grant Peck in Bangkok contributed.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP)  Cleveland State University said Thursday it will continue to require that students living on campus be vaccinated against the coronavirus despite a new law prohibiting public schools and colleges in Ohio from mandating the vaccine.

FILE - In this Nov. 29, 2016, file photo, Dr. Andrew Thomas, Chief Medical Officer at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, speaks during a news conference in Columbus, Ohio. Thomas said Wednesday, July 14, 2021, that nine of every 10 central Ohioans being hospitalized for the coronavirus are partially vaccinated or unvaccinated. Meanwhile, Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, chief medical officer for the Ohio Department of Health, said coronavirus vaccination trends have led to the development of "two Ohios" just as the highly contagious delta variant spreads widely. (AP Photo/John Minchillo, File)

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP)  Cleveland State University said Thursday it will continue to require that students living on campus be vaccinated against the coronavirus despite a new law prohibiting public schools and colleges in Ohio from mandating the vaccine.

The school, the only public university in the state with such a requirement, said the mandate will continue since the fall term begins Aug. 21 and the law doesn't take effect until October.

Over the last three semesters, our students, faculty, and staff have worked hard to keep our community safe," said spokesperson Allison Bibb-Carson. "As a result, Cleveland State University achieved one of lowest infection rates among urban universities in the country.

About 1,000 Cleveland State students live on campus out of a total enrollment of nearly 16,000 students. Medical and religious exemptions are available, Bibb-Carson said.

The university said it would comply with the law once it takes effect.

The bill signed into law Wednesday by Republican Gov. Mike DeWine and aimed at the coronavirus vaccine bans public schools and colleges from requiring individuals to receive vaccines not granted full approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The bill, which takes effect Oct. 12, would also prohibit individuals who don't receive emergency use vaccines from being denied the chance to participate in school activities such as sports.

DeWine signed the legislation just hours after his top medical advisor warned that vaccination trends have led to the development of two Ohios when it comes to combating the coronavirus, increasing vulnerability to the diseases highly contagious delta variant.

A day before signing the bill, the governor said the FDA needs to move coronavirus vaccines from emergency use authorization to full approval as soon as possible. He said the emergency element is leading to vaccine hesitancy in the state.

On Thursday, a DeWine spokesperson said the governor is confident the ban won't be needed for long.

The prohibition was limited to vaccines that do not have full FDA approval, said Dan Tierney. We are confident that these vaccines, proven repeatedly to be very safe and very effective, will be approved by the FDA, thus rendering this issue moot.

Moderna and Pfizer have both begun the process to win full regulatory approval.

Last month, Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchison also called on the FDA to issue full approval, saying the lack of it was leading to vaccine hesitancy in his state.

We need to get that research completed so it can be final approval  I think that will help, Hutchison said on CBS' Face the Nation.

In North Carolina on Thursday, Dr. Mandy Cohen, the states top public health official, called the vaccines safe and effective and subject to rigorous clinical trials and review before their implementation.

Im hoping the FDA is working as rapidly as possible to get to full approval for the vaccine, said Cohen, the states Health and Human Services secretary.

A handful of private colleges in Ohio that are requiring students to be vaccinated, including Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware and Kenyon College in Gambier, won't be affected by the law.

We continue to believe that immunization is the best way to promote the health of our community, said Kenyon spokesperson Janet Marsden.

The Ohio prohibition was a last-minute GOP addition to a bill aimed at minimizing disruptions for children of military families moving into or out of school districts as a result of their parents' deployments.

House Republicans are also pushing another bill that would prohibit employers, either public or private, from requiring employees to receive vaccinations. The measure before the GOP-controlled House Health Committee has attracted multiple opponents of COVID-19 vaccines but does not mention the coronavirus. Instead, it addresses mandatory requirements for all vaccines, such as for the flu.

Lawmakers adjourned for the summer without moving the bill out of committee. It's opposed by every major business group in Ohio along with multiple medical, hospital and health care groups.

Associated Press writers Andrew DeMillo in Little Rock, Arkansas, and Bryan Anderson in Raleigh, North Carolina, contributed to this report.

Follow APs coverage of the pandemic at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic.
NORWICH, Conn. (AP)  A Roman Catholic diocese in Connecticut filed for federal bankruptcy protection on Thursday to resolve dozens of lawsuits alleging the abuse of teenage students decades ago at the former Academy at Mount Saint John School, a residential treatment center for troubled youth in Deep River.

NORWICH, Conn. (AP)  A Roman Catholic diocese in Connecticut filed for federal bankruptcy protection on Thursday to resolve dozens of lawsuits alleging the abuse of teenage students decades ago at the former Academy at Mount Saint John School, a residential treatment center for troubled youth in Deep River.

Documents filed by the Diocese of Norwich, which oversaw the facility, indicate it has $50 million to $100 million in estimated liabilities owed to 50 to 99 creditors. To date, nearly 60 former residents of the school have sued the diocese and a former bishop for damages, exceeding the diocese's current financial ability to pay, according a statement issued by the diocese.

"A Chapter 11 bankruptcy will allow the court to centralize these lawsuits, as well as help the Diocese manage its litigation expenses and preserve adequate financial resources for all essential ministries, Bishop Michael R Cote said in a statement. If the Diocese had not filed for bankruptcy, it would be unable to ensure that all of the individuals who file claims are treated fairly and have equal access to the funds available.

According to the filing, the diocese has $10 million to $50 million in assets.

Attorney Kelly Reardon, who represents six former students at the school, said the filing could delay the resolution of their claims, but she's hopeful the diocese will be transparent about its finances and the victims will eventually receive as much compensation as possible.

Hopefully there will be enough money in the total estate that each person will be able to receive 100% compensation, she said. But, unfortunately in these situations there usually isn't enough money and so it's more of a question of what percentage of your case value are you going to get?

The dioceses parishes, cemeteries, schools and religious orders are not part of the Chapter 11 filing, which is not expected to have a direct impact on the day-to-day operations of those entities or the employment status, salaries and benefits of the diocese's employees or retirees, the bishop said.

Todays filing puts all civil actions, judgments, collection activities and related legal actions against the Diocese on hold," according to the statement. The U.S. Bankruptcy Court is expected to set a deadline for individuals and organizations to file financial claims against the diocese.

The full extent of the Dioceses liabilities will not be known until after the claim deadline has passed, according to the statement. The Norwich Diocese was established in 1953. It covers half of the state's eight counties  Middlesex, New London, Tolland and Windham in Connecticut, as well as Fishers Island, New York. The smallest diocese in the state, it has about 228,000 parishioners

In 2018, an initial 24 men filed lawsuits against the Diocese of Norwich and former Bishop Daniel Reilly, claiming they were fondled, sodomized and raped while attending the Academy at Mount Saint John by two Christian brothers and at least two other staff members between 1986 and 2000. The boys, who were between 11 and 15 years old, had been placed at the now-defunct school by the state Department of Children and Families or the state's court system. DCF was not named as a defendant in those lawsuits.

The Diocese of Norwich said Thursday it is the 31st and most recent Catholic religious organization in the U.S. to seek bankruptcy protection under Chapter 11. As of May 2021, 19 of the earliest bankruptcies have led to a successful reorganization while 11 of the more recently filed reorganizations are pending, the diocese said.

Ours is not the first diocese to experience a reorganization, said Cote in a video message, calling the decision the most important news he's had to deliver during his 18 years leading the diocese.

Last October, a Roman Catholic diocese in New York Citys suburbs sought relief from a torrent of lawsuits filed after the state suspended the statute of limitations for suing over sexual abuse by priests. The Diocese of Rockville Centre, which encompasses much of Long Island and 1.4 million Catholics, said in filing for Chapter 11 protection that it will ask a bankruptcy court to put all cases on hold so that they they can be settled together  a process it says is more equitable but that victims say limits their ability to get at the truth.

The financial burden of the litigation has been severe and only compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, Bishop John Barres said in a video and letter on the dioceses website. Our goal is to make sure that all clergy sexual abuse survivors and not just a few who were first to file lawsuits are afforded just and equitable compensation.

The abuse accusations at the Academy at Mount Saint John School in Connecticut are not the only claims made against the Norwich Diocese. In a separate matter in 2019, Cote released the names of 43 priests who have served in the Connecticut diocese and have had allegations of substance made against them about the sexual abuse of minors since 1953. At that time, the Diocese had paid about $7.7 million since 1977 in settlements to victims in nine cases, with 23 still pending.

Cote said at the time he was grievously sorry.

Associated Press Writer Pat Eaton-Robb contributed to this report.
HAVANA (AP)  Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel on Wednesday acknowledged shortcomings in his government's handling of shortages and of neglecting certain sectors, but he urged Cubans to not act with hate  a reference to violence during recent street protests.

Police stand guard near the National Capitol building in Havana, Cuba, Wednesday, July 14, 2021, days after protests. Demonstrators voiced grievances on Sunday against goods shortages, rising prices and power cuts, and some called for a change of government. (AP Photo/Eliana Aponte)

HAVANA (AP)  Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel on Wednesday acknowledged shortcomings in his government's handling of shortages and of neglecting certain sectors, but he urged Cubans to not act with hate  a reference to violence during recent street protests.

Until now, the Cuban government had only blamed social media and the U.S. government for the weekend protests, which were the biggest seen in Cuba since a quarter century ago, when then-President Fidel Castro personally went into the streets to calm crowds of thousands furious over dire shortages following the collapse of the Soviet Union and its economic subsidies for the island.

In a nighttime address on state television, Diaz-Canel for the first time was self critical and acknowledged that failings by the state played a role in the protests over food shortages, rising prices and other grievances.

People use their cell phones where a pre-paid public wifi connection is working near the Malecon seawall in Havana, Cuba, Tuesday, July 14, 2021. The government responded to Sundays antigovernment protests by shutting down internet and mobile data services by the state-run phone monopoly, effectively cutting off social media. (AP Photo/Eliana Aponte)

We have to gain experience from the disturbances," he said. We also have to carry out a critical analysis of our problems in order to act and overcome, and avoid their repetition.

In the protests, many Cubans expressed anger over long lines and shortages of food and medicines, as well as repeated electricity outages. Some demanded a faster pace of vaccination against the coronavirus. But there were also calls for political change in a country governed by the Communist Party for some six decades.

Police moved in and arrested dozens of protesters, sometimes violently, and the government has accused protesters of looting and vandalizing shops. Smaller protests continued Monday and officials reported at least one death. No incidents were reported Wednesday.

Our society is not a society that generates hatred and those people acted with hatred," Diaz-Canel said. The feeling of Cubans is a feeling of solidarity and these people carried out these armed acts, with vandalism ... yelling for deaths ... planning to raid public places, breaking, robbing, throwing stones.

Authorities did not report the number of people arrested, Col. Moraima Bravet of the Interior Ministry said Wednesday only that they are mostly between the ages of 25 and 37 and will be prosecuted such crimes as public disorder, assault, contempt, robbery or damage.

Cuba is suffering its worst crisis in years from a combination of the coronavirus pandemic that has paralyzed its economy, including the vital tourism industry, inefficiencies in the state-run economy and the tightening of U.S. sanctions on the island. The administration of President Donald Trump imposed more than 200 measures against the island in four years.

Diaz-Canel said that this complex situation was taken advantage of by those who do not really want the Cuban revolution to develop or a civilized relationship with respect with the United States."

Shortly before the presidents remarks, Prime Minister Manuel Marrero announced some measures such as customs flexibility for Cuban citizens who go on foreign trips to bring home toiletries, food and medicines, which are among the most hard to find items in Cuba.

Marrero also said that work is being done to improve the stability of the national electricity system and that officials will seek to improve the supply of medicines, many of which are produced on the island but whose inputs must be imported.

Meanwhile, Economy Minister Alejandro Gil announced the directors of state-owned enterprises will be allowed to determine salaries beyond the regulations. He also said that in the coming weeks long-promised rules will be instituted for small- and medium-size enterprises to be formed, a step once unthinkable under the communist government.
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  Haiti on Wednesday received its first coronavirus vaccine since the pandemic began, welcoming 500,000 doses as the country battles a spike in cases and deaths.

A youth looks into the camera inside a school turned shelter created about a month ago for families displaced by gang violence in Petion Ville in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Tuesday, July 13, 2021. President Jovenel Moise was assassinated on July 7. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix)

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  Haiti on Wednesday received its first coronavirus vaccine since the pandemic began, welcoming 500,000 doses as the country battles a spike in cases and deaths.

The Pan American Health Organization said the United States donated the doses via the United Nations COVAX program for low-income countries.

Spokeswoman Nadia Peimbert-Rappaport told The Associated Press that the shipment was Moderna vaccine.

The arrival of these vaccines is quite promising and now the challenge is to get them to the people that need them the most, the regional health agency's director, Dr. Carissa Etienne, said in a statement.

The doses will be administered for free, said Dr. Marie Greta Roy Clement, Haitis minister of public health and population.

This first allocation of vaccines puts an end to a long period of waiting, an end to a long period of waiting not only for the Haitian population but also for the people of the region who were very concerned that Haiti was the only country in the Americas that had not yet introduced the COVID 19 vaccine, she said in a statement.

Haiti has reported more than 19,300 confirmed coronavirus cases and more than 480 deaths as it fights a wave of COVID-19 cases that has forced hospitals to turn away patients. Experts believe those numbers are widely underreported since there is scant testing in Haiti, which has more than 11 million people.

Some 756,000 doses of AstraZeneca shots had been slated to arrive in May via the COVAX program but were delayed given the governments concern over possible clotting as a side effect and a lack of infrastructure to keep the vaccines properly refrigerated.

The Pan American Health Organization has said it would help Haitis Health Ministry solve those problems and would prioritize vaccinating health workers.

It was not immediately known when inoculations would begin and where.

Experts have previously warned of potential problems that could complicate vaccination efforts, including a surge in gang violence that has people afraid to leave their homes or travel to certain areas because they fear for their lives.

Haiti also is now reeling from the July 7 assassination of President Jovenel Moise.

Moise had declared a health emergency on May 24 and imposed a curfew and safety measures, including mandating the use of face masks when entering businesses. But few Haitians are following the measures while buying groceries in bustling marketplaces or riding in crowded colorful buses known as tap taps.

Last month, the nonprofit St. Luke Foundation for Haiti said the country's insecurity was interfering with oxygen being imported as a liquid, then being converted to gas and delivered.

It is hard and dangerous work to refill 320 tanks per day, in the red zones of Port au Prince, it said.
NEW DELHI (AP)  It began in February with a tweet by pop star Rihanna that sparked widespread condemnation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modis handling of massive farmer protests near the capital, souring an already troubled relationship between the government and Twitter.

FILE - In this Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021, file photo, India's Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, left, and Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar address a press conference announcing new regulations for social media companies and digital streaming websites in New Delhi, India. It began in February with a tweet by pop star Rihanna that sparked widespread condemnation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's handling of massive farmer protests near the capital, souring an already troubled relationship between the government and Twitter. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup, File)

NEW DELHI (AP)  It began in February with a tweet by pop star Rihanna that sparked widespread condemnation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modis handling of massive farmer protests near the capital, souring an already troubled relationship between the government and Twitter.

Moving to contain the backlash, officials hit Twitter with multiple injunctions to block hundreds of tweets critical of the government. Twitter complied with some and resisted others.

Relations between Twitter and Modi's government have gone downhill ever since.

At the heart of the standoff is a sweeping internet law that puts digital platforms like Twitter and Facebook under direct government oversight. Officials say the rules are needed to quell misinformation and hate speech and to give users more power to flag objectionable content.

Critics of the law worry it may lead to outright censorship in a country where digital freedoms have been shrinking since Modi took office in 2014.

Police have raided Twitter's offices and have accused its India chief, Manish Maheshwari, of spreading communal hatred and hurting the sentiments of Indians. Last week, Maheshwari refused to submit to questioning unless police promised not to arrest him.

On Wednesday, the company released a transparency report showing India had submitted most government information requests -- legal demands for account information -- to Twitter. It accounted for a quarter of worldwide requests in July- December last year.

It was the first time since Twitter started publishing the report in 2012 that the U.S. was displaced as the top global requester, it added.

Indias plans for the internet appear to be like that of a closed ecosystem like China, said Raheel Khursheed, co-founder of Laminar Global and Twitter Indias former head of Politics, Policy and Government. Twitters case is the basis of a touchstone on how the future of the internet will be shaped in India.

A woman looks at the Twitter page of pop star Rihanna in New Delhi, India, Thursday, July 15, 2021. It began in February with a tweet by Rihanna that sparked widespread condemnation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modis handling of massive farmer protests near the capital, souring an already troubled relationship between the government and Twitter. Moving to contain the backlash, officials hit Twitter with multiple injunctions to block hundreds of tweets critical of the government. In the same month, the Indian government announced the new rules, in the works for years, that apply to social media companies, streaming platforms and digital news publishers. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

Tech companies are facing similar challenges in many countries. China has been aggressively tightening controls on access to its 1.4 billion-strong market, which is already largely sequestered by the Communist Party's Great Firewall and by U.S. trade and technology sanctions.

India is another heavyweight, with 900 million users expected by 2025.

Any internet company knows that India is probably the biggest market in terms of scale. Because of this, the option of leaving India is like the button theyd press if they had no options left, said tech analyst Jayanth Kolla.

The new rules, in the works for years and announced in February, apply to social media companies, streaming platforms and digital news publishers. They make it easier for the government to order social media platforms with over 5 million users to take down content that is deemed unlawful. Individuals now can request that companies remove material. If a government ministry flags content as illegal or harmful it must be removed within 36 hours. Noncompliance could lead to criminal prosecutions.

Tech companies also must assign staff to answer complaints from users, respond to government requests and ensure overall compliance with the rules.

Twitter missed a three-month deadline in May, drawing a strong rebuke from the Delhi High Court. Last week, after months of haggling with the government, it appointed all three officers as required.

Twitter continues to make every effort to comply with the new IT Rules 2021. We have kept the Government of India apprised of the progress at every step of the process, the company said in a statement to the Associated Press.

Apar Gupta, executive director of the Internet Freedom Foundation, says he worries the rules will lead to numerous cases against internet platforms and deter people from using them freely, leading to self-censorship. Many other critics say Modis Hindu nationalist government is imposing what they call a climate of digital authoritarianism."

If it becomes easier for user content to be taken down, it will amount to the chilling of speech online, Gupta said.

The government insists the rules will benefit and empower Indians.

Social media users can criticize Narendra Modi, they can criticize government policy, and ask questions. I must put it on the record straight away . . . But a private company sitting in America should refrain from lecturing us on democracy" when it denies its users the right to redress, the ex-IT minister, Ravi Shankar Prasad, told the newspaper The Hindu last month.

Despite the antagonisms between Modi and Twitter, he has been an enthusiastic user of the platform in building popular support for his Bharatiya Janata Party. His government has also worked closely with the social media giant to allow Indians to use Twitter to seek help from government ministries, particularly during health emergencies. Bharatiya Janata Party's social media team has meanwhile been accused of initiating online attacks against critics of Modi.

Still, earlier internet restrictions had already prompted the Washington-based Freedom House to list India, the world's most populous democracy, as partly free instead of free in its annual analysis.

The law announced in February requires tech companies to aid police investigations and help identify people who post mischievous information. That means messages must be traceable, and experts say this it could mean end-to-end encryption would not be allowed in India.

Facebooks WhatsApp, which has more than 500 million users in India, has sued the government, saying breaking encryption, which continues for now, would severely undermine the privacy of billions of people who communicate digitally.

Officials say they only want to trace messages that incite violence or threatening national security. WhatsApp says it cant selectively do that.

It is like you are renting out an apartment to someone but want to look into it whenever you want. Who would want to live in a house like that? said Khursheed of Laminar Global.

The backlash over online freedom of expression, privacy and security concerns comes amid a global push for more data transparency and localization, said Kolla, the tech expert.

Germany requires social media companies to devote local staff and data storage to curbing hate speech. Countries like Vietnam and Pakistan are drafting legislation similar to Indias. In Turkey, social media companies complied with a broad mandate for removing content only after they were fined and faced threats to their ad revenues.

Instead of leaving, some companies are fighting the new rules in the courts, where at least 13 legal challenges have been filed by news publishers, media associations and individuals. But such cases can stretch for months or even years.

Mishi Choudhary, a technology lawyer and founder of Indias Software Freedom Law Center, says that under the rules, social media platforms might lose their safe harbor protection, which shields them from legal liability over user-generated content. Courts have to decide that on a case-by-case basis, she said. And their legal costs would inevitably soar.

You know how it is in India. The process is the punishment, Choudhary said. And until we get to a place where the courts will actually come and tell us what the legal position is and determine those legal positions, it is open season for tech backlash.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The child tax credit had always been an empty gesture to millions of parents like Tamika Daniel.

FILE - In this June 11, 2021, file photo, Vice President Kamala Harris talks with bilingual early childhood education school CentroNia students Jayden Bello, left, and Celina Barrera during a visit to the school in northwest Washington. Teacher Billo Diawara, right, watches. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta, File)

WASHINGTON (AP)  The child tax credit had always been an empty gesture to millions of parents like Tamika Daniel.

That changed Thursday when the first payment of $1,000 hit Daniels bank account  and dollars started flowing to the pockets of more than 35 million families around the country. Daniel, a 35-year-old mother of four, didnt even know the tax credit existed until President Joe Biden expanded it for one year as part of the $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package that passed in March.

Previously, only people who earned enough money to owe income taxes could qualify for the credit. Daniel went nearly a decade without a job because her eldest son is autistic and needed her. So she got by on Social Security payments. And she had to live at Fairfield Court, a public housing project that dead-ends at Interstate 64 as the highway cuts through the Virginia capital of Richmond.

Tamika Daniel poses for a photo in Richmond, Va., Thursday, July 15, 2021. Daniel, a 35-year-old mother of four, will start receiving the Child Tax Credit on Thursday. The extra $1,000 a month for the next year could be a life-changer for Daniel, who now works as a community organizer for a Richmond nonprofit. It will help provide a security deposit on a new apartment. (AP Photo/John C. Clark)

But the extra $1,000 a month for the next year could be a life-changer for Daniel, who now works as a community organizer for a Richmond nonprofit. It will help provide a security deposit on a new apartment.

Its actually coming right on time, she said. We have a lot going on. This definitely helps to take a load off.

Biden has held out the new monthly payments, which will average $423 per family, as the key to halving child poverty rates. But he is also setting up a broader philosophical battle about the role of government and the responsibilities of parents.

Democrats see this as a landmark program along the same lines as Social Security, saying it will lead to better outcomes in adulthood that will help economic growth. But many Republicans warn that the payments will discourage parents from working and ultimately feed into long-term poverty.

Tamika Daniel poses for a photo in Richmond, Va., Thursday, July 15, 2021. Daniel, a 35-year-old mother of four, will start receiving the Child Tax Credit on Thursday. The extra $1,000 a month for the next year could be a life-changer for Daniel, who now works as a community organizer for a Richmond nonprofit. It will help provide a security deposit on a new apartment. (AP Photo/John C. Clark)

Some 15 million households will now receive the full credit. The monthly payments amount to $300 for each child who is 5 and younger and $250 for those between 5 and 17. The payments are set to lapse after a year, but Biden is pushing to extend them through at least 2025.

The president ultimately would like to make the payments permanent  and that makes this first round of payments a test as to whether the government can improve the lives of families.

Biden invited beneficiaries to the White House to mark the first round of payments, saying in a Thursday speech that the day carried a historic resonance because of the boost it will give families across the nation.

"This would be the largest ever one-year decrease in child poverty in the history of the United States of America," the president said. Millions of children and their families, starting today, their lives are about to change for the better. And our country would be better off for it as well.

President Joe Biden arrives to speak at an event to mark the start of monthly Child Tax Credit relief payments, in the South Court Auditorium on the White House complex, Thursday, July 15, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Florida Republican Sen. Marco Rubio, who successfully championed increasing the credit in 2017, said that the Democrats plans will turn the benefits into an anti-work welfare check because almost every family can now qualify for the payment regardless of whether the parents have a job.

Not only does Bidens plan abandon incentives for marriage and requirements for work, but it will also destroy the child-support enforcement system as we know it by sending cash payments to single parents without ensuring child-support orders are established, Rubio said in a statement Wednesday.

The administration disputed those claims. Treasury Department estimates indicate that 97% of recipients of the tax credit have wages or self-employment income, while the other 3% are grandparents or have health issues. The credit also starts to phase out at $150,000 for joint filers, so there is no disincentive for the poor to work because a job would just give them more income.

Colorado Democratic Sen. Michael Bennet said the problem is one of inequality. He said that economic growth has benefited the top 10% of earners in recent decades, while families are struggling with the rising costs of housing, child care and health care. He said his voters back in Colorado are concerned that their children will be poorer than previous generations and that requires the expansion of the child tax credit.

Vice President Kamala Harris listens as President Joe Biden speaks during an event to mark the start of monthly Child Tax Credit relief payments, in the South Court Auditorium on the White House complex, Thursday, July 15, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Its the most progressive change to Americas tax code ever, Bennet told reporters.

Parenthood is an expensive undertaking. The Agriculture Department estimated in 2017, the last year it published such a report, that a typical family spends $233,610 to raise a child from birth to the age of 17. But wealthier children get far more invested in their education and upbringing, while poorer children face a constant disadvantage. Families in the top third of incomes spend about $10,000 more annually per child than families in the lower third.

The child tax credit was created in 1997 to be a source of relief, yet it also became a driver of economic and racial inequality as only parents who owed the federal government taxes could qualify for its full payment. Academic research in 2020 found that about three-quarters of white and Asian children were eligible for the full credit, but only about half of Black and Hispanic children qualified.

In the census tract where Daniel lives in Richmond, the median household income is $14,725 almost five times lower than the national median. Three out of every 4 children live in poverty. For a typical parent with two children in that part of Richmond, the expanded tax credit would raise income by almost 41%.

The tax credit is as much about keeping people in the middle class as it is about lifting up the poor.

Katie Strelka, of Brookfield, Wisconsin, was laid off from her job as a beauty and hair care products buyer for the Kohls department store chain in September as the pandemic tightened its grip on the country. She and her sons, 3-year-old Oliver and 7-year-old Robert, were left to depend on her husbands income as a consultant for retirement services. The family was already struggling to pay for her husbands kidney transplant five years earlier and his ongoing therapies before she was laid off, she said.

With no job prospects, Strelka reenrolled in college to study social work in February. Last month she landed a new job as an assistant executive director for the nonprofit International Association for Orthodontics. Now she needs day care again. That amounts to $1,000 a month for both kids.

All the tax credit money will go to cover that, said Strelka, 37.

Every little bit is going to help right now," she said. "Im paying for school out-of-pocket. Im paying for the boys stuff. The cost of food and everything else has gone up. Were just really thankful. The tide feels like its turning.

Associated Press writer Todd Richmond in Madison, Wis., contributed to this report.

This story has been updated to correct that Katie Strelka pays $1,000 a month for day care, not $1,000 a week. It has also been corrected to fix the spelling of Fairfield Court, not Courts. And it has been corrected to show the spelling of the Wisconsin mother's last name is Strelka, not Stekla.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Welcoming Angela Merkel to the White House for a final time, President Joe Biden renewed his concerns to the German chancellor Thursday about a major, nearly complete Russia-to-Germany gas pipeline but said they agreed Russia must not be allowed to use energy as a weapon.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel attends the weekly cabinet meeting at the Chancellery in Berlin, Germany, July 14, 2021. (Annegret Hilse/Pool via AP)

WASHINGTON (AP)  Welcoming Angela Merkel to the White House for a final time, President Joe Biden renewed his concerns to the German chancellor Thursday about a major, nearly complete Russia-to-Germany gas pipeline but said they agreed Russia must not be allowed to use energy as a weapon.

The two discussed  though made no apparent headway  on differences over the Nord Stream 2 pipeline during a largely friendly farewell visit for Merkel as she nears the end of a political career that has spanned four American presidencies.

On a personal note, I must tell you I will miss seeing you at our summits, Biden said as he stood by Merkel, the second-longest serving chancellor in Germany's history, at a late afternoon White House press conference. "I truly will.

Merkel, who had a famously difficult relationship with former President Donald Trump, showed her ease and familiarity with Biden, who has long been a fixture in international politics, repeatedly referring to him as "Dear Joe.

Asked to compare her relationship with Biden to hers with Trump, Merkel remained diplomatic, saying only that it was in any German chancellors interest to work with every American president." She added with a smile, "Today was a very friendly exchange.

FILE - in this file photo dated Thursday, April 22, 2021, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, front right, attends a virtual international climate summit with US President Joe Biden, seen on screen left, in Berlin, Germany. Merkel on Wednesday July 14, 2021, is bound for America, for meetings on Thursday with US President Biden on what is likely to be her last official visit. (Kay Nietfeld/Pool via AP FILE)

But their personal warmth notwithstanding, the U.S.-German relationship is entering new territory as Merkel, who is not seeking another term in September elections, nears her departure from office. There are concerns on both sides about how the two nations will negotiate growing disagreements.

The United States has long argued that the Nord Stream 2 project will threaten European energy security by increasing the continents reliance on Russian gas and allowing Russia to exert political pressure on vulnerable Eastern and Central European nations, particularly Ukraine. But Biden recently waived sanctions against German entities involved in the project, a move that angered many in Congress.

Sen. Marco Rubio, a Florida Republican, in a letter to Biden on Thursday ahead of the leaders' meeting raised concerns that the pipeline is already having an economic impact on U.S. ally Ukraine. Rubio said Gazprom, the company that operates Nord Stream 2, has already started to reduce its use of pipelines in Ukraine as the new gas pipeline nears completion.

Vice President Kamala Harris greets German Chancellor Angela Merkel as she arrives at the Vice President's residence, the Naval Observatory, Thursday, July 15th, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

Merkel sought to downplay the differences, and to stress that the pipeline was in addition to  not meant to displace  Ukrainian pipelines.

"Our idea is and remains that Ukraine remains a transit country for natural gas, that Ukraine just as any other country in the world has a right to territorial sovereignty, Merkel said. She added that Germany stood ready to react to Moscow should Russia not respect this right of Ukraine that it has as a transit country.

Merkel also raised concerns about COVID-19 travel restrictions that prevent most Europeans from traveling to the U.S.

Vice President Kamala Harris greets German Chancellor Angela Merkel as she arrives at the Vice President's residence, the Naval Observatory, Thursday, July 15th, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

Biden said he had brought in the head of his coronavirus task force to discuss the issue and that he expected to be able to offer a more definitive answer within the next seven days about when the restrictions might be eased.

Merkel started her day with a working breakfast with Vice President Kamala Harris, and Harris' office said the two had a very candid discussion."

Back home in Germany, Merkel's country and neighboring Belgium dealt with the aftermath of heavy flooding that left more than 60 people dead and dozens missing.

John Hopkins University President Ronald Daniels applauds as he presented German Chancellor Angela Merkel her diploma for Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies campus in Washington, Thursday, July 15, 2021. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

My sympathy goes to the relatives and of the dead and missing, she said.

Officials in Washington and elsewhere are wondering what course Germany might take after the September vote.

Merkel's Christian Democratic Union is leading in polls, but the environmentalist Greens and the center-left Social Democrats are also vying to lead a future government. While the three parties differ in many policy areas, all are committed to a strong trans-Atlantic relationship.

President Joe Biden meets with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in the Oval Office of the White House, Thursday, July 15, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Germany has strong trade ties with China but has also been critical of Beijing's human rights record. Merkel is keen to avoid a situation in which Germany, or the European Union, might be forced to choose sides between China and the United States.

Merkel has insisted on the need to cooperate with China on global issues such as climate change and the coronavirus pandemic, even while then-President Trump was accusing Beijing of having started it the pandemic.

Still, Merkel stressed in her comments to reporters that she wants Germany and the European Union to coordinate their policy toward China with Washington, including on issues such as labor rights, trade and cybersecurity.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel speaks during a news conference with President Joe Biden in the East Room of the White House in Washington, Thursday, July 15, 2021. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

I believe that the foundations of our dealings with China should be based on the common values" of the U.S. and Germany, she said.

The humanitarian group Doctors Without Borders urged Biden to lean on Merkel to drop her opposition to proposals for suspending vaccine patents. Merkel, a trained scientist, has argued that lifting the patents wouldn't be effective and could harm future research and development efforts.

A group of Democratic lawmakers called on Germany to drop its blockade of a COVID-19-related waiver of intellectual property rights under global trade rules. Such a waiver, the lawmakers argued, would help scale production of effective vaccines around the world.

President Joe Biden smiles during a news conference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in the East Room of the White House in Washington, Thursday, July 15, 2021. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

The Biden administration has expressed support for the waiver being discussed at the World Trade Organization, but White House officials did not anticipate differences being resolved during Merkel's visit.

While there are points of tension, Biden seemed eager to offer Merkel a proper farewell.

He hosted Merkel and her husband, as well as an array of lawmakers and administration officials, current and past, at the White House for a dinner Thursday evening. The guest list included Secretary of State Antony Blinken, as well as two of his predecessors  Hillary Clinton and Colin Powell.

The Republican Senate and House leaders, Mitch McConnell and Kevin McCarthy, were also in attendance along with other top U.S. and German officials. The menu featured crispy sea bass and black pepper tagliatelle.

Earlier Thursday, Harris hosted Merkel for breakfast at her residence on the grounds of the U.S. Naval Observatory, commending her for her extraordinary career." Merkel in turn noted the historic nature of the Harris vice presidency.

I can only say that Im delighted, too, for this opportunity here to meet the first madam vice president of the United States of America," Merkel said before the two leaders stepped into a residence to talk over a breakfast of Gruyere souffle, seasonal fruit and charcuterie.

Also Thursday, Merkel received an honorary doctorate, her 18th, from Johns Hopkins University and spoke at the universitys School of Advanced International Studies.

Jordans reported from Berlin and Madhani from Chicago.
BILLINGS, Mont. (AP)  President Joe Bidens pick to oversee U.S. lands in the Western states stonewalled a 1989 investigation into the sabotage of an Idaho timber sale, a former federal law enforcement officer alleged in a letter released Thursday.

FILE - In this June 8, 2021, file photo, Tracy Stone-Manning listens during a confirmation hearing for her to be the director of the Bureau of Land Management, during a hearing of the Senate Energy and National Resources Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington. West is facing pressure to withdraw over her ties to environmental activists convicted of spiking trees to sabotage a national forest timber sale more than 30 years ago. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP)  President Joe Bidens pick to oversee U.S. lands in the Western states stonewalled a 1989 investigation into the sabotage of an Idaho timber sale, a former federal law enforcement officer alleged in a letter released Thursday.

The former U.S. Forest Service special agent claims that as a 23-year-old environmental studies graduate student, Tracy Stone-Manning was suspected in the plot to insert metal spikes into trees in the Clearwater National Forest to prevent them from being cut down but refused to cooperate with investigators.

Two of Stone-Mannings friends were convicted of the sabotage more than four years later. She received immunity from prosecutors and testified against them, according to court documents and interviews with people involved in the case.

She was never charged with any crimes and has spoken publicly in the years since about her role retyping and mailing a letter to authorities on behalf of one of the convicted men that said people could get hurt if loggers tried to cut trees in the sabotaged area.

Stone-Manning has maintained she wasnt knowingly a direct target of the investigation.

She and other University of Montana students and a faculty member were subpoenaed to submit hair and fingerprint samples to a grand jury in the months after the spiking, according to news accounts of the case and Associated Press interviews with the faculty member and two of the former students.

The faculty member and former students said investigators appeared to be casting a wide net without direct evidence they were directly involved.

FILE - In this June 8, 2021, file photo, Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo., speaks with reporters after a Republican caucus luncheon on Capitol Hill in Washington. Barrasso said Friday, June 11, 2021, that U.S. Bureau of Land Management nominee Tracy Stone-Manning should be disqualified over her links to "extreme environmental activists" when Manning was a graduate student in the 1980s. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)

The two men convicted in 1993 were not implicated until a former girlfriend of one of them  not Stone-Manning  provided details to authorities in 1992.

Wyoming Republican Sen. John Barrasso released the letter Thursday from retired investigator Michael Merkley after pushing for weeks for Stone-Mannings nomination to be withdrawn. Barrasso, the top Republican on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, said in a statement that Merkley's letter confirms that Tracy Stone-Manning lied when she told the panel that to her knowledge, she had never been the target in a criminal investigation.

The Biden administration has continued to back Stone-Manning  a former top aide to former Montana Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock  despite the strong GOP opposition to her nomination to direct the Interior Department's Bureau of Land Management. The agency oversees energy production, grazing, logging and other activities across almost a quarter-billion acres of public lands, primarily in the West.

Interior spokesperson Melissa Schwartz said the department "stands by Tracy's statements and written submissions" to the committee.

In her latest responses to questions from lawmakers, released by the department Wednesday, Stone-Manning said she had no involvement in the 1989 tree spiking other than mailing the letter, which she said she did so no one would get hurt.

She said she had been frightened of one of the men convicted in the case but ultimately stepped forward to keep him in jail after he assaulted his former girlfriend.

I recall being disturbed with the whole situation and frightened of him; I wanted nothing to do with it and did not want anyone to get hurt, she wrote.

Merkley alleged in his letter that Stone-Manning was sent a federal grand jury target letter informing her that she was going to be indicted after the former girlfriend told Merkley in 1992 that Stone-Manning helped plan the tree spiking.

While she did provide testimony against her co-conspirators, she still was not forthcoming about the role she herself played in this case, the letter said.

However, the lead prosecutor on the case, former U.S. Assistant Attorney George Breitsameter, told AP that he could not recall Stone-Manning being sent a such a letter.

If she was, it would surprise me, he said. That's not the first thing you do. You want them to come in and testify.

Breitsameter declined to say if Stone-Manning was specifically targeted as a suspect and said that just because someone is being investigated by law enforcement doesnt mean prosecutors are on board. By the time of the trial, he added, everybody was satisfied with the convictions of the two people in the case.

A former colleague of Merkleys at the Forest Service  who later became friends with Stone-Manning  said he became a suspect in the tree spiking after his name showed up in a diary at a house in Missoula that investigators searched. Bruce Farling, now an environmental consultant, said Merkley had conducted a giant fishing expedition in the case and he didnt think the retired investigators latest allegations were credible.

One of the University of Montana environmental students subpoenaed along with Stone-Manning, Jake Kreilick, said he believes authorities were trying to intimidate him and other environmental activists at the school as they investigated the tree spiking.

They were trying to to get us to back down. But part of it was real because they did want to find out who spiked those trees, said Kreilick, who was never charged.

He said Stone-Manning played no direct role in the tree spiking but was caught in the middle of it when asked to mail the warning letter.

Prior to her nomination, Stone-Manning worked most recently at the National Wildlife Federation. Her advocacy for preservation of public lands contrasts sharply with the pro-development policies at the bureau during the Trump administration that were strongly supported by Republicans including Barrasso.

The vote on her nomination has not been scheduled. It would take every Senate Republican plus at least one Democratic lawmaker to block her confirmation in the evenly divided chamber.

Follow Brown on Twitter: @MatthewBrownAP
BUCHAREST (AP)  A former leader of Romanias Social Democratic Party who was sentenced to 3 1/2 years in jail for corruption in 2019 will be released early, a court ruled Thursday.

FILE - In this Monday, April 15, 2019 file photo, Liviu Dragnea, the leader of Romania's ruling Social Democratic party, leaves escorted by police officers after a court hearing in Bucharest, Romania. Liviu Dragnea, a former leader of Romania's Social Democratic Party who was sentenced to 3  years in jail for corruption in 2019 will be released early, a court ruled Thursday, July 15, 2021. (AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda, file)

BUCHAREST (AP)  A former leader of Romanias Social Democratic Party who was sentenced to 3 1/2 years in jail for corruption in 2019 will be released early, a court ruled Thursday.

Liviu Dragnea, who was convicted by the Supreme Court in May 2019 for official misconduct, was considered Romania's most powerful politician at the time of his sentencing.

According to prosecutors, Dragnea intervened to keep two people employed by his party on the payroll of a family welfare agency while he was a government official between 2008 to 2010. The women admitted receiving salaries from the public agency while working for the party.

Dragnea, who has served almost two years and two months of his total sentence, appealed Thursday to judges at a Bucharest district court saying that his good behavior during his jail term warranted his early release.

I carried the punishment with decency and dignity, Dragnea told the judges. I went to work every day I was allowed to. I participated in all the courses I was allowed to, I never missed a day.

FILE - In this Monday, April 15, 2019 file photo, Liviu Dragnea, the leader of Romania's ruling Social Democratic party, center, arrives escorted by police officers for a court hearing in Bucharest, Romania Monday. Liviu Dragnea, a former leader of Romania's Social Democratic Party who was sentenced to 3  years in jail for corruption in 2019 will be released early, a court ruled Thursday, July 15, 2021. (AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda, file)

The court said Thursday that the decision to allow his conditional release is final. An earlier request in April had been rejected.

Under Dragneas leadership in 2017, the then-ruling PSD Party pushed to amend justice laws that prompted some of the biggest anti-government protests in Romania since the fall of communism in 1989.

Dragnea, who contracted COVID-19 while in jail last year and had complained about his treatment during his detention, was blocked from being Romanias prime minister due to a 2016 conviction for vote-rigging.

After Dragnea was sentenced in 2019, hundreds of Romanians took to the streets of Romanias capital to celebrate.
Bernie Desgagnes decision to stay in Winnipeg 17 years ago when the pharmaceutical consulting company he worked for moved to Toronto has proven to be a good one.

Bernie Desgagnes decision to stay in Winnipeg 17 years ago when the pharmaceutical consulting company he worked for moved to Toronto has proven to be a good one.

Instead of moving, he started his own business, Source Nutraceutical Inc., in 2004 in Winnipeg as a regulatory service provider to help international nutraceutical companies navigate new Canadian regulations that were just coming into effect for that industry at the time.

Over time, the company developed enough of an expertise that its services became well known to the nutraceutical and natural product industry in the U.S., internationally and increasingly, among domestic companies as well.

"I was just in the right place at the right time," Desgagnes said.

But the success of the company  it now generates millions of dollars in revenue  was more than just chance. He hired graphic designers to handle the precise requirements for packaging and labelling and even operated warehousing and distribution for a few years with facilities in Vancouver and Winnipeg, although he shut that side of the business down a few years ago.

More recently he started managing clinical trials.

Even though there were new regulations for nutraceuticals, they were not as demanding as the regulatory regime for pharmaceuticals.

And that same differentiation applied for clinical trials which more nutraceutical companies needed to undertake in order to substantiate health claims.

Because of their deep knowledge of Canadian regulations, Desgagnes and his team were able to design trials that could be more cost effective to its nutraceutical clients than would be the case if they went to the legacy clinical trial operators, many of which are based out of universities whose cost structure is formed around the more sophisticated and expensive demands of the pharmaceutical regulatory regime.

Source Nutraceutical is now taking the next step of opening its own dedicated brick-and-mortar clinical trial clinic in Winnipeg on Aug. 1 with a key client in hand right out of the gate that happens to be a company in its own backyard  SciMar Ltd., a company based in Dauphin which is developing a whole new approach to treating diabetes.

And while Health Canada has imposed strict new pandemic protocols on clinical trials which has made it that much harder to get trials in the field, Desgagnes said Sources clinical trial operation has been designed to include all of those protocols which he believes will likely remain in place for some time after the pandemic is deemed over.

"We are at ground zero as it were," he said. "We have done pilot studies over the last few months and now we are beginning to structure some of the very large trials that will move forward."

Mick Lautt, the CEO of SciMar, said the company has more than 20 clinical trials planned for the next five years and has gone out into the market throughout Canada and the U.S. looking for the right clinical trial partner.

He found that while some said they run turnkey operations he would later realize they really only had expertise in one thing.

"It turned out Source Nutraceutical has been a fantastic fit for us," Lautt said.

Lautt was keen to find a Canadian partner and one based in Manitoba was even better.

"The other thing was that we wanted to find the right partner that understands the bigger picture," he said. "Do they really care about what we are doing? Thats not necessarily a prerequisite but it was important for SciMar that they are committed and passionate."

He said Source was willing to evolve to SciMars needs and its new clinical trial operation is almost custom designed for the diabetes companys suite of diagnostics, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical offerings.

Desgagnes said it was a significant investment for the company of which he is the sole owner, to build the stand alone clinic. But SciMar has a lot of work in the pipeline  and $9 million of capital on hand.

Source Nutraceutical now has a staff of more than 20 people that includes medical doctors and scientists with PhDs and masters degrees as well as a team of another 25 contractors, including nurses that may eventually come on staff.

In addition to SciMars clinical trial work, Desgagnes said they already have about 25 other projects in the pipeline and hopes to be able to have a couple more underway through 2022.

martin.cash@freepress.mb.ca
BANGKOK (AP)  Production of the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine at a factory in Thailand has fallen short of its target, likely delaying the country's plan to acquire a total of 61 million doses until next May, a government official said Thursday.

A health worker administers a dose of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine at the Central Vaccination Center in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, July 15, 2021. As many Asian countries battle against a new surge of coronavirus infections, for many their first, the slow-flow of vaccine doses from around the world is finally picking up speed, giving hope that low inoculation rates can increase rapidly and help blunt the effect of the rapidly-spreading delta variant. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

BANGKOK (AP)  Production of the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine at a factory in Thailand has fallen short of its target, likely delaying the country's plan to acquire a total of 61 million doses until next May, a government official said Thursday.

The projected supply shortfall will complicate plans to inoculate at least 70% of the countrys 69 million people this year as Thailand battles record-high daily increases in COVID-19 cases and deaths. Cases have risen with the spread of the more contagious delta variant of the virus.

Deputy Health Minister Sathit Pitutacha said in an interview with MCOT Television that AstraZeneca had asked for the extension until next May to complete delivery, and that while the timeframe is flexible, the government will still negotiate for as much monthly supply as possible.

He said that according to AstraZeneca, the current production capacity of the factory operated by Siam Bioscience, a company owned by Thailand's king, is 15 million doses per month, and that AstraZeneca has agreed to provide 40% of that to Thailand. Sathit said production could increase in the future.

The government had previously announced that local production of the AstraZeneca vaccine would supply Thailand with 6 million doses in June, 10 million doses each month from July to November, and 5 million doses in December for a total of 61 million doses this year.

Siam Bioscience was awarded a license by AstraZeneca last year to be a regional production hub supplying eight other countries despite having no experience in manufacturing vaccines.

The government of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha has been widely criticized for failing to secure timely and adequate vaccine supplies, and has been scrambling to obtain vaccines in addition to Sinovac and Sinopharm from China and the locally produced AstraZeneca. The government says it now has agreements to also buy from Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson.

Thai health authorities said Wednesday they will seek to impose limits on exports of the locally produced AstraZeneca vaccine because the country doesnt have enough for its own needs. They did not specify what the limits might be.

Dr. Nakorn Premsri, director of the National Vaccine Institute, said its vaccine committee agreed in principle to issue an order temporarily limiting exports, but did not give any details. The order would be issued by designating it a matter of national security.

India, the worlds biggest vaccine producer, banned vaccine exports earlier this year when it was hit by a devastating coronavirus outbreak.

Thailand has administered 13.53 million doses of vaccine to 10.16 million people, or 14.74% of the countrys population. About 3.37 million people, or 4.89% of the population, are fully vaccinated.

The slow pace of vaccinations, hindered by supply problems, threatens the government's plan to kickstart a recovery of Thailand's key tourist industry by allowing the entry of vaccinated travelers without requiring them to quarantine on arrival starting in mid-October.
MONTREAL - The federal government is investing up to $440 million in Quebec's aerospace industry to subsidize major companies operating in a key sector of the province's economy, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Thursday.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau makes an aerospace economic announcement as President and Chief Executive Officer of CAE Inc. Marc Parent looks on, Thursday, July 15, 2021 in Montreal.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz

MONTREAL - The federal government is investing up to $440 million in Quebec's aerospace industry to subsidize major companies operating in a key sector of the province's economy, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Thursday.

Trudeau made the announcement in Montreal, a day after he travelled to Quebec's Gaspe region to pledge up to $25 million to expand a wind turbine plant. The millions of dollars in federal money for Quebec come ahead of a likely election campaign, the date for which has not been set.

Speaking to reporters, Trudeau denied he was already campaigning. "In an election campaign, you make promises about what you might do once you're elected. Right now, we're continuing the work that we got elected for in 2015 and in 2019," he said.

Coupled with $245 million from the Quebec government, Trudeau said the new aid package for the aerospace sector will total as much as $693 million. The prime minister said the funding will subsidize projects being developed by three large aerospace companies operating in the province: Bell Textron Canada, CAE and Pratt & Whitney Canada.

"Today, were investing to create good, well-paying jobs for our recovery," he told a news conference alongside Quebec Premier Francois Legault and aerospace executives. "This investment will also secure the industrys long-term future in Canada by developing green-aviation projects and more clean technologies."

Trudeau said the money will create or support 12,000 jobs and make internships available to more than 6,200 students.

Legault told reporters the spending announced Thursday will create about 1,000 new, high-paying jobs in the province. He said the money pledged by his government and by Ottawa will be added to about $900 million of private investment in Quebec's aerospace sector, one of the largest in the world.

Trudeau also announced an investment of $92.5 million over three years in Quebec under the Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative, which is a fund dedicated to help small and medium-sized aerospace firms recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Whether its projects to lower your carbon footprint, or support for AI solutions to better manage your inventory, were here to help your business innovate," he said about the kinds of projects that can receive funding. The federal money comes from funds earmarked to support the aerospace industry in the April federal budget. Much of the money is intended to help aerospace companies develop "greener" technologies, Trudeau said.

The subsidy for Pratt & Whitney Canada, based in Longueuil, Que., will help the company continue developing a hybrid electric turboprop engine that company president Maria Della Posta said is intended to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 30 per cent compared to traditional turboprop engines.

Helicopter manufacturer Bell Textron Canada said it will use the money to continue developing lower-emission helicopters. The company has already built a helicopter with an electric system that has replaced the traditional rear rotor. "This tail system has demonstrated the benefit of electric propulsion, including noise reduction," president Steeve Lavoie told reporters.

Suzanne M. Benoit, president of aerospace industry group Aero Montreal, said, "Quebec is positioning itself in sustainable mobility; it can be cars, it can be buses, it can be rail, and now it's aerospace."

The government funding is good news for the industry, she said, adding that this kind of support is necessary for Quebec's aerospace sector to compete against companies in France and the United States that also receive aid from their governments. "This is what you have to do if you want to maintain an aerospace industry," she said in an interview.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 15, 2021.



This story was produced with the financial assistance of the Facebook and Canadian Press News Fellowship.
JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  As many Asian countries battle their worst surge of COVID-19 infections, the slow flow of vaccine doses from around the world is finally picking up speed, giving hope that inoculation rates can increase and help blunt the effect of the rapidly spreading delta variant.

A health worker administers a dose of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine at the Central Vaccination Center in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, July 15, 2021. As many Asian countries battle against a new surge of coronavirus infections, for many their first, the slow-flow of vaccine doses from around the world is finally picking up speed, giving hope that low inoculation rates can increase rapidly and help blunt the effect of the rapidly-spreading delta variant. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  As many Asian countries battle their worst surge of COVID-19 infections, the slow flow of vaccine doses from around the world is finally picking up speed, giving hope that inoculation rates can increase and help blunt the effect of the rapidly spreading delta variant.

With many vaccine pledges still unfulfilled and rates of infection spiking across multiple countries, however, experts say more needs to be done to help nations struggling with the overflow of patients and shortages of oxygen and other critical supplies.

Some 1.5 million doses of the Moderna vaccine arrived Thursday afternoon in Indonesia, which has become a dominant hot spot with record high infections and deaths.

The U.S. shipment follows 3 million other American doses that arrived Sunday, and 11.7 million doses of AstraZeneca that have come in batches since March through the U.N.-backed COVAX mechanism, the last earlier this week.

Its quite encouraging, said Sowmya Kadandale, health chief in Indonesia of UNICEF, which is in charge of the distribution of vaccines provided through COVAX. It seems now to be, and not just in Indonesia, a race between the vaccines and the variants, and I hope we win that race.

Many, including the World Health Organization, have been critical of the vaccine inequalities in the world, pointing out that many wealthy nations have more than half of their populations at least partially vaccinated, while the vast majority of people in lower-income countries are still waiting on a first dose.

The International Red Cross warned this week of a widening global vaccine divide and said wealthy countries needed to increase the pace of following through on their pledges.

Its a shame it didnt happen earlier and cant happen faster, Alexander Matheou, the Asia-Pacific director of the Red Cross, said of the recent uptick in deliveries. Theres no such thing as too late  vaccinating people is always worth doing  but the later the vaccines come, the more people will die.

Vietnam, Thailand and South Korea have all imposed new lockdown restrictions over the past week as they struggle to contain rapidly rising infections amid sluggish vaccination campaigns.

In South Korea  widely praised for its initial response to the pandemic that included extensive testing and contact tracing  a shortage in vaccines has left 70% of the population still waiting for their first shot. Thailand, which only started its mass vaccination in early June, is seeing skyrocketing cases and record deaths, and only about 15% of people have had at least one shot. In Vietnam, only about 4% have.

Parts of the world ... are talking about reclaiming lost freedoms such as going back to work, opening the cinemas and restaurants, Matheou told The Associated Press. This part of the world is far away from that.

Indonesia started aggressively vaccinating earlier than many in the region, negotiating bilaterally with China for the Sinovac jabs. Now about 14% of its population  the fourth largest in the world  has at least one dose of a vaccine, primarily Sinovac. Several countries also have their own production capabilities, including South Korea, Japan and Thailand, but still need more doses to fill the needs of the regions huge population.

Both Moderna and AstraZeneca have been really critical in ramping up these numbers and ensuring that the supplies are available, said UNICEF's Kadandale, noting that Indonesia plans to have some additional 208.2 million people vaccinated by years end and is giving 1 million shots daily. Every single dose does make a huge difference.

Many other countries in the region have vaccination rates far below Indonesias for a variety of reasons, including production and distribution issues as well as an initial wait-and-see attitude from many early on when numbers were low and there was less of a sense of urgency.

Some were shocked into action after witnessing the devastation in India in April and May as the countrys health system collapsed under a severe spike in cases that caught the government unprepared and led to mass fatalities.

At the same time, India  a major regional producer of vaccines  stopped exporting doses so that it could focus on its own suffering population.

The U.S. has sent tens of millions of vaccine doses to multiple countries in Asia recently, part of President Joe Bidens pledge to provide 80 million doses, including Vietnam, Laos, South Korea and Bangladesh. The U.S. plans to donate an additional 500 million vaccines globally in the next year, and 200 million by the end of 2021.

Indonesia is a critical partner for U.S. engagement in Southeast Asia and the vaccines come without strings attached, said Scott Hartmann, a spokesman for the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta. Were doing this with the object of saving lives and ending the global pandemic, and equitable global access to safe and effective vaccines is essential.

Earlier in the week, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, whose country is one of the largest financial backers of COVAX, accused Russia and China of using their delivery of vaccines for policy leverage.

We note, in particular with China, that the supply of vaccines was also used to make very clear political demands of various countries, he said, without providing specific examples.

There are also growing questions about the effectiveness of Chinas Sinovac vaccine against the delta variant of the virus.

Thai officials said that booster doses of AstraZeneca would be given to front-line medical personnel who earlier received two doses of Sinovac, after a nurse who received two doses of Sinovac died Saturday after contracting COVID-19.

Sinovac has been authorized by WHO for emergency use but Indonesia also said it was planning boosters for health workers, using some of the newly delivered Moderna doses, after reports that some of the health workers who had died since June had been fully vaccinated with the Chinese shot.

We have still found people getting severe symptoms or dying even when they are vaccinated, Pandu Riono, an epidemiologist with the University of Indonesia, said about the Sinovac shot. Its only proven that some vaccines are strong enough to face the delta variant  AstraZeneca, Moderna and Pfizer seem capable.

While the majority of recent deliveries have been American, Japan was sending 1 million doses of AstraZeneca on Thursday each to Indonesia, Taiwan and Vietnam as part of bilateral deals, and Vietnam said it was receiving 1.5 million more AstraZeneca doses from Australia.

The Philippines is expecting a total of 16 million doses in July, including 3.2 million from the U.S. later this week, 1.1 million from Japan, 132,000 of Sputnik V from Russia, as well as others through COVAX.

Japan is also is sending 11 million through COVAX this month to Bangladesh, Cambodia, Iran, Laos, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and others.

Canada this week committed an additional 17.7 million surplus doses to the 100 million already pledged through COVAX, which is coordinated by Gavi, a vaccine alliance. France delivered 1.7 million doses worldwide through June with COVAX and is sending millions more this summer.

In addition to distributing some donated vaccines, financial contributions to COVAX also help fund the purchase of doses to distribute for free to 92 low or moderate income nations.

Earlier this month, it took blistering criticism from the African Union for how long it was taking for vaccines to reach the continent, noting that just 1% of Africans are fully vaccinated.

Gavi said the vaccine shortfall so far this year is because the major COVAX supplier, the Serum Institute of India, diverted production to domestic use.

In its latest supply forecast, however, Gavi shows deliveries just beginning a sharp uptick and still on track to meet the goal of about 1.5 billion doses by years end, representing 23% coverage in lower and middle income nations, and more than 5 billion doses by the end of 2022.

Its better to focus on vaccinating the world and to avoid hoarding doses, said Matheou of the Red Cross. Sharing vaccines makes everyone safer.

____

Rising reported from Bangkok. Associated Press writers Edna Tarigan in Jakarta, Indonesia, Zeke Miller in Washington, Frank Jordans in Berlin, and Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to this report.

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
BOSTON (AP)  When Boston socialites Minna Hall and Harriet Hemenway sought to end the slaughter of birds in the name of 19th century high fashion, they picked a logical namesake for their cause: John James Audubon, a naturalist celebrated for his stunning watercolors of American birds.

Jamil Boykin, center, camp educator at the Mass Audubon's Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, examines wild sorrel with students Nesha Moskowitz, left, and Lyla Mendoza, right, during a hike at the sanctuary, in the Mattapan neighborhood of Boston, Wednesday, June 23, 2021. Audubon Society chapters are grappling with how to address their namesake's legacy as the nation continues to reckon with its racist past. John James Audubon was a celebrated 19th century naturalist but also a slaveholder publicly opposed to abolition. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

BOSTON (AP)  When Boston socialites Minna Hall and Harriet Hemenway sought to end the slaughter of birds in the name of 19th century high fashion, they picked a logical namesake for their cause: John James Audubon, a naturalist celebrated for his stunning watercolors of American birds.

Now, 125 years after the founding of the Massachusetts Audubon Society for the Protection of Birds, the organization and the nearly 500 Audubon chapters nationwide it helped inspire are reckoning with another side of Audubons life: He was also a slaveholder and staunch opponent of abolition.

In the year-plus since George Floyd was killed by Minneapolis police, Audubon chapters have pledged to do more to atone for the past, including diversifying their staff and finding ways to make natural spaces more welcoming to people of color. Its part of a broader reckoning within the wider environmental movement, which for years has faced criticism for its racist origins and lack of diversity.

At this point, if people are not part of what theyre trying to protect, thats an issue, Debbie Njai, an Illinois resident who founded the outdoor group BlackPeopleWhoHike, said of conservation groups.

Jamil Boykin, front, camp educator at Mass Audubon's Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, walks with students Giovanni Pierre, left, and Aaron Overton, right, during a hike at the sanctuary, in the Mattapan neighborhood of Boston, Wednesday, June 23, 2021. Audubon Society chapters are grappling with how to address their namesake's legacy as the nation continues to reckon with its racist past. John James Audubon was a celebrated 19th century naturalist but also a slaveholder publicly opposed to abolition. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

Mass Audubon published an essay last fall acknowledging how Audubons family's wealth came in large part from running a Caribbean sugar plantation. It has also pledged to have people of color make up 25% of its board of directors, and hopes to open more wildlife sanctuaries in communities of color.

The National Audubon Society, which is based in New York and is separate from Mass Audubon, has similarly delved into its namesakes legacy in a series of essays.

And the Sierra Club publicly apologized last July for the racist views of its founder, John Muir, who openly dismissed American Indians as dirty savages. The Oakland-based group has also committed $5 million to boost its environmental justice work and recently voiced support for Black reparations.

Environmental groups understand the future of their movement hinges on changing their white, elitist reputation, said David ONeill, president of Mass Audubon.

If we dont get younger and we dont get more diverse, were not going to have people to advocate on behalf of nature, and thats not good for anyone, he said during a recent visit to the groups Boston Nature Center, an urban wildlife sanctuary in a majority Black neighborhood that it hopes to replicate in other Massachusetts communities of color.

Students Lyla Mendoza, left, Nesha Moskowitz, second from left, Giovanni Pierre, center, and camp educator Adrian Oller, center right, examine wild sorrel during a hike at Mass Audubon's Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, in the Mattapan neighborhood of Boston, Wednesday, June 23, 2021. Audubon Society chapters are grappling with how to address their namesake's legacy as the nation continues to reckon with its racist past. John James Audubon was a celebrated 19th century naturalist but also a slaveholder publicly opposed to abolition. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

Green organizations appear to be making progress on improving staff diversity, but their leadership remains predominantly white, said Andres Jimenez, head of Green 2.0, a Washington, D.C., group that puts out an annual report card on diversity in the environmental sector.

In its most recent report, Green 2.0 found that the nations largest green groups added, on average, six people of color to their staff, two to their senior management and one to their board of directors between 2017 and 2020.

We need to see that change up top to move the ball in an accelerated way," Jimenez said.

Bird conservation brought the countrys latest racial reckoning to the environmental movements doorsteps, and, in many ways, its where the calls for change are most acutely felt.

There's a growing campaign, for example, to drop the eponyms of birds that honor slaveholders and white supremacists  Bird Names for Birds.

Mass Audubon President David O'Neill takes questions from an Associated Press reporter during an interview at Mass Audubon's Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, in the Mattapan neighborhood of Boston, Wednesday, June 23, 2021. Audubon Society chapters are grappling with how to address their namesake's legacy as the nation continues to reckon with its racist past. John James Audubon was a celebrated 19th century naturalist but also a slaveholder publicly opposed to abolition. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

The catalyst was a dispute between a Black birdwatcher and a white woman with her dog in New Yorks Central Park that went viral last summer, sparking #BlackBirdersWeek and other similar efforts to highlight Black nature enthusiasts and the discrimination and other challenges they face in the outdoors.

Christian Cooper, the birder at the center of that controversy, stressed organizations like the Audubon have been taking steps to address diversity long before his viral moment, even if some have yielded mixed results.

A board member with the New York City Audubon Society, Cooper said his chapter has been trying to draw more diverse members through modest events like last month's Juneteenth birdwatching and potluck picnic.

The organizations that are having the most success are those that are trying new things, Cooper said. The reality is that fixing centuries of ingrained racial bias as it manifests in the environmental movement is hard and uncomfortable work."

At the National Audubon Society, the racial reckoning has boiled over into staff unrest.

Spurred by complaints of a toxic workplace, an outside audit concluded in April that a culture of retaliation, fear, and antagonism toward women and people of color" existed at the organization. Longtime CEO David Yarnold swiftly resigned.

Tykee James, who serves as the organizations government affairs officer in Washington, is among the staffers pushing to form a labor union to address diversity and other workplace problems. He also wants the Audubon to be more vocal in publicly advocating for environmental justice causes.

The culture that weve had in this organization hasnt been one for workers of color, hasnt been one for women, hasnt been one for nonbinary folks, James said.

Matt Smelser, a spokesperson for the Audubon Society, referred to a May statement from the group, which said bullying and other bad behavior won't be tolerated going forward. The organization also continues to search for a permanent CEO and has committed to remaining neutral in the unionization efforts, he added.

Back at Mass Audubon, ONeill says the organizations board has added new members so that 17% of them are people of color. The staff of more than 950 is about 65% white.

Scott Edwards, a Harvard ornithologist who is among the recent additions to the group's board, said the jurys still out on whether these early steps from green organizations are enough. Some will have to re-imagine their mission and pivot more to urban populations, he said.

Organizations will have to think creatively about how to get communities of color more connected with nature, said Edwards, who is Black. Show them that their voices are needed and wanted. Make them feel included in the larger effort of conservation.

Mamie Parker, who worked for decades at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and was its first Black regional director, advises environmental groups to approach racial equity like a conservation challenge.

When you plant a tree to restore a forest or take care of bald eagles to rebuild their population, the retired biologist from Dulles, Virginia, said, "it takes years before those efforts bear fruit.
FILE - In this June 13, 2012, file photo, Asian carp, jolted by an electric current from a research boat, jump from the Illinois River near Havana, Ill. Minnesota state Sen. Foung Hawj and fellow Sen. John Hoffman have won approval of a measure requiring that Minnesota agencies refer to the fish as "invasive carp." Now some other government agencies are taking the same step in the wake of anti-Asian hate crimes that surged during the coronavirus pandemic. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service quietly changed its designation to "invasive carp" in April. (AP Photo/John Flesher, File)

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) 

Minnesota state Sen. Foung Hawj was never a fan of the Asian carp label commonly applied to four imported fish species that are wreaking havoc in the U.S. heartland, infesting numerous rivers and bearing down on the Great Lakes.

But the last straw came when an Asian business delegation arriving at the Minneapolis airport encountered a sign reading Kill Asian Carp." It was a well-intentioned plea to prevent spread of the invasive fish. But the message was off-putting to the visitors.

Hawj and fellow Sen. John Hoffman in 2014 won approval of a measure requiring that Minnesota agencies refer to the fish as invasive carp, despite backlash from the late radio commentator Rush Limbaugh, who ridiculed it as political correctness.

I had more hate mail than you could shake a stick at, Hoffman said.

Now some other government agencies are taking the same step in the wake of anti-Asian hate crimes that surged during the coronavirus pandemic. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service quietly changed its designation to invasive carp in April.

We wanted to move away from any terms that cast Asian culture and people in a negative light, said Charlie Wooley, director of its Great Lakes regional office.

The Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee, representing agencies in the U.S. and Canada that are trying to contain the carp, will do likewise Aug. 2, he said.

The moves come as other wildlife organizations consider revising names that some consider offensive, including the Entomological Society of America, which this month dropped gypsy moth and gypsy ant from its insect list.

Yet the switch to invasive carp might not be the final say. As experts and policymakers have learned in their long struggle against the prolific and wily fish, almost nothing about them is simple. Scientists, technical journals, government agencies, language style guides, restaurants and grocery stores may have ideas about what to call them, based on differing motives  including getting more people to eat the critters.

FILE - In this Feb. 17, 2020, file photo, a worker from a natural resource agency uses a net to drive Asian carp to a fish pump which removes them from Kentucky Lake near Golden Pond, Ky. Minnesota state Sen. Foung Hawj and fellow Sen. John Hoffman have won approval of a measure requiring that Minnesota agencies refer to the fish as "invasive carp." Now some other government agencies are taking the same step in the wake of anti-Asian hate crimes that surged during the coronavirus pandemic. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service quietly changed its designation to "invasive carp" in April. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey, File)

That's a priority for researchers who have spent years developing technologies to stem the incursion  from underwater noisemakers and electric currents to netting operations.

But the dish hasn't caught on with U.S. consumers, despite its popularity in much of the world. For many Americans, "carp calls to mind the common carp, a bottom-feeder with a reputation for a muddy flavor and bony flesh.

It's a four-letter word in this country, said Kevin Irons, assistant fisheries chief with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

The four species described collectively as Asian carp  bighead, silver, grass and black carp  were brought from China a half-century ago to rid Southern sewage and aquaculture ponds of algae, weeds and parasites. They escaped into the wild and have migrated up the Mississippi and other major rivers. The Great Lakes and their $7 billion sport fishery are vulnerable.

Voracious and aggressive, silver and bighead gobble plankton that other fish need. Grass carp munch ecologically valuable wetland plants, and black carp feast on mussels and snails. Silvers can also hurtle from the water like missiles, causing nasty collisions with boaters.

So far they've been netted mostly for bait, pet food and a few other uses. Philippe Parola, a Louisiana chef, trademarked the label silverfin for Asian carp fishcakes he developed around 2009.

The state of Illinois and partner organizations hope a splashy media campaign in the works will get bigger results. Dubbed The Perfect Catch, it will describe Asian carp as sustainably wild, surprisingly delicious"  high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, low in mercury and other contaminants.

And it will give the fish a market-tested new name, which will remain secret until the makeover rollout, Irons said. A date hasn't been announced.

We hope it will be new and refreshing and better represent these fish for consumers, he said.

The goal is to spur interest all along the chain  from commercial netters to processors, grocery stores and restaurants.

The tactic has worked before. After the U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service rechristened slimehead as orange roughy" in the late 1970s, demand for the deep-sea dweller rose so sharply that some stocks were depleted. Chilean sea bass, another cold-water favorite, once was known less appealingly as Patagonian toothfish.

But what new label for Asian carp will be considered official  invasive carp, which has been criticized as imprecise, or whatever the marketing blitz comes up with?

It could be either. Or neither.

The rebranding campaign will seek U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval to use the new moniker for interstate commerce. But even if the FDA goes along and consumers buy in, scientists are another matter.

The American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists and the American Fisheries Society have a committee that lists fish titles, including scientific names in Latin and common ones thought up by people "who originally described the species or included them in a field guide or other reference, said panel chairman Larry Page, curator of fishes at the Florida Museum of Natural History.

For example, there's Micropterus salmoides, which became known as largemouth bass, and Oncorhynchus mykiss, or rainbow trout.

The committee has never adopted Asian carp as a term for the four invasive species, Page said.

So where did it come from? According to a paper in the journal Fisheries, the label began showing up in scientific literature in the mid-1990s and took hold in the early 2000s as worries about the fish grew.

It was never a good idea, said Patrick Kocovsky, a fish ecologist with the U.S. Geological Survey and one of the paper's authors, because the species affect the environment in different ways.

Song Qian, a University of Toledo environmental sciences professor who teamed with Kocovsky on the article, said carp is a valued protein source in many Asian nations. It's a good-luck symbol in his native China.

If you say it's invasive, bad and needs to be eradicated, even though it's because of miscommunication, that's why there's talk about cultural insensitivity, Qian said.

It's most accurate to refer to the fish species individually, he said, acknowledging a collective name is sometimes convenient. The challenge now is finding the right one.

Regardless of which one eventually sticks, said Hawj, the Minnesota legislator, who immigrated to the U.S. from Laos as a child refugee after the Vietnam War, he's glad Asian carp is on its way out. He recalled the warm applause he received at an Asian-American conference after announcing his state had made the change.

"It's a nuisance, a small thing, but it can resonate greatly, he said.

Follow John Flesher on Twitter: @johnflesher
The latest news on COVID-19 developments in Canada (all times eastern):

A man wears a face mask as he leaves a COVID-19 vaccination site in Montreal, Sunday, July 4, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughe

The latest news on COVID-19 developments in Canada (all times eastern):

6:25 p.m.

Alberta is reporting 53 new cases of COVID-19 and one additional death.

The province says 107 people are in hospital due to the virus, including 31 in intensive care.

There are 576 active cases, with 315 being from the more contagious variants of concern.

A total of 2,312 people in Alberta have died of COVID-19 since the pandemic began.

5:20 p.m.

British Columbia is reporting its first death in several days due to COVID-19 for a total of 1,761 fatalities since the pandemic began.

There are 54 new cases and 650 active cases.

Sixty-three people are in hospital and 12 of those are in intensive care.

The vaccination rate for those 12 and older for a first shot is 79.4 per cent, and 48.6 per cent are fully vaccinated.

3:35 p.m.

Saskatchewan is reporting 30 new cases of COVID-19 today, and no new deaths.

Nine more people have recovered, leaving the province with 373 active cases.

The province is also reporting 52 people in hospital, including nine in intensive care.

The seven-day average of new COVID-19 cases in the province has dropped to 27, its lowest mark since Oct. 13, 2020.

Provincewide, 73 per cent of those aged 12 and older have now received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine.

Fifty-seven per cent of those 12 and older are fully vaccinated.

1:35 p.m.

Manitoba is reporting 41 COVID-19 cases and one additional death.

There are 128 Manitobans in hospital, including 31 in intensive care.

There has also been a sharp drop in daily case counts of late and the province will be moving into the second stage of its reopening plan on Saturday.

The five-day test positivity rate is 3.4 per cent provincially.

1:20 p.m.

Twenty-three new COVID-19 cases have been confirmed among crew members on a Portuguese fishing vessel anchored off the coast of Newfoundland.

Newfoundland and Labrador health authorities say that with todays cases, 31 of the ship's crew have now tested positive for the disease, including one seafarer who is now in hospital.

Karl Risser, an Atlantic Canadian inspector with the International Transport Workers' Federation, told The Canadian Press Wednesday there are 39 people on board the ship.

Meanwhile, 14 crew members tested positive last week for COVID-19 aboard an oil tanker anchored near the fishing vessel, and public health officials say that number remains unchanged.

1 p.m.

New Brunswick is reporting seven new cases of COVID-19 today, all related to travel.

Health officials say six new cases are in the Moncton region and one is in the Fredericton area.

New Brunswick has eight active reported cases and no one in hospital with the disease.

About 55 per cent of New Brunswickers over the age of 12 are fully vaccinated and about 80 per cent have received at least one dose.

12:15 p.m.

Nova Scotia is reporting no new cases of COVID-19 and six recoveries.

As of today, Nova Scotia has 22 active cases.

Of those, two people are in hospital COVID-19 units, including one in intensive care.

Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health, warned against complacency, saying the Delta variant can spread easily and more quickly than past outbreaks.

11 a.m.

Quebec is reporting 65 new cases of COVID-19 today and one more death attributed to the novel coronavirus.

Health officials say hospitalizations rose by two, to 81, and 23 people were in intensive care, a drop of two.

The province says 101,686 doses of COVID-19 vaccine were administered Wednesday and 51 per cent of people over 12 are considered fully vaccinated.

Health Minister Christian Dube tweeted today that people aged between 12 and 17 years are now able to advance their second-dose appointments of COVID-19 vaccine.

10:30 a.m.

Ontario is reporting 143 new cases of COVID-19 today and 10 more deaths linked to the virus.

Health Minister Christine Elliott says 25 of the cases are in Waterloo Region, 25 are in Grey Bruce and 20 are in Toronto.

Elliott also says the province administered just over 166,200 doses of a COVID-19 vaccine yesterday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 15, 2021.
For Archbishop Albert LeGatt, it was "a meeting of kindred spirits."

Thats how the leader of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of St. Boniface described his July 9 discussion with Dougald Lamont, leader of the Manitoba Liberal party.

The meeting came about after Lamont issued a public letter to the archbishop asking him to consider a request for the Pope to "recognize the wrongs and harms of the past that were the result of residential schools, and ask First Nations in Canada, as well as other Indigenous peoples, forgiveness for the harms that were done."

This would be an "incredibly an important act of healing, reconciliation and justice," Lamont wrote.

In response, the archbishop issued a public invitation to Lamont, along with invitations to Nahanni Fontaine (NDP MLA for St. Johns) and Dan Vandal (Winnipeg Liberal MP and northern affairs minister).

The meeting with Lamont was positive, the archbishop said, adding the two agreed to keep working at the issue together.

Their goal, LeGatt said, "is to bring people together to establish right relationships so we can walk together in a good way and a good spirit."

The two discussed is the place of forgiveness in the process, along with Lamonts idea of how the biblical Year of Jubilee from the book of Leviticus  a time when the debts of the poor were to be cancelled  could be applied to the context of the relationship between the Roman Catholic Church and Indigenous people.

"That could mean how the Catholic Church could ease the burdens and blockages that are stopping peace, harmony and co-operation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people," the archbishop said.

"For Catholics, that means asking for forgiveness, not just for historical figures in the past, but the whole of the church today," he said, adding, "We were part of a fundamentally flawed and sinful system that brought evil, suffering and damage into peoples lives."

For Lamont, the meeting affirmed his belief the archbishop "really gets it."

"He has tremendous sympathy, understanding, and commitment to reconciliation, healing, and justice in order to recognize the wrongs of the past," the Liberal leader said, adding the archbishop believes a papal apology is appropriate.

Lamont said he is interested in reaching out to other Christian denominations and "governments and churches need to work together" to promote reconciliation and healing.

"This is work that we all share, all Canadians and all Manitobans," Lamont said, adding what is required "is more than an apology. Justice and reconciliation means mending and changing our relationship to Indigenous peoples in ways that change lives for the better."

It also means making amends "for healing to be a possibility."

Discussions are still underway between the archbishop and Fontaine about a meeting. He said he has not received a reply from Vandals office.

faith@freepress.mb.ca
MICHAEL Riese has started preparing for the worst.

The full-time cottager at Lakeshore Heights on Lake Winnipeg has started filling up "go bags" with food, clothes and bottled water, should he and his wife Michelle need to evacuate quickly due to a wildfire.

"Im quite concerned," said Riese.

After a wildfire reduced the town of Lytton, B.C., to rubble and killed two people, Riese said hes taken extra measures to keep safe.

Fires dont pose an immediate threat to his community, but smoke is in the air from fires burning to the north and to the east.

"You can even tell by the smoke whether its a pine or spruce fire or if its something else," said the retired farmer.

Riese and his wife have started planning where theyll stay if they have to flee. They gather water that hasnt been too contaminated  such as water from their kitchen sink  and pour it on the ground around their cottage, rather than drain it into a septic tank, in an attempt to replenish the water table and make it tougher for fire to spread to the cottage.

Once a selling feature of his property, the trees around his place, many of which are fast-igniting jack pines, have enclosed him in a tinderbox.

"When you live in rural areas, you like to live in a well-treed shelter to get through the Manitoba winters, but all of sudden that turns into your enemy," he said.

Riese crosses his fingers as he monitors the wildfire situation daily. Evacuation would mean leaving the home his dad bought in 1966, which has been full of "all the joy and excitement of the children and the grandchildren coming out to the grandparents and enjoying the beach country."

As of Wednesday, 104 wildfires were burning across the province, for a total of 240 this year, said Don Hallett, assistant director of the Manitoba Wildfire Service. Last year, there were 140.

Drought has parched all of southern Manitoba, with south-central regions, including the Interlake, experiencing either "extreme" or "exceptional" drought, the two driest indicators on the Manitoba drought monitor. That creates conditions that are rife for an inferno.

Hallett praised the dedication of Manitoba wildfire crews, but said the situation can be difficult.

"It is challenging and taxing on anybody after so many days of fighting fire," he said. "We try to rotate our crews to ensure theyre getting mandatory breaks and so that they can be refreshed and mentally capable of making correct decisions so that they can do their job safely."

Local crews currently have the resources to battle the provinces blazes, said Hallett. But he acknowledged it could be a problem if they require reinforcements.

The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency said its fire crews are "fully engaged" battling more than 100 fires. Saskatchewan is looking to hire people with firefighting training from northern communities, borrowing from local crews and asking for help from other provinces.

Ontario issued an emergency order Wednesday for the provinces northwestern region. Alberta is battling just under 100 fires, and more than 300 are burning in B.C.

As of Wednesday, no wildfire in Manitoba presented an immediate threat to a populated community, said Hallett. However, the fires have flared up in clusters, which requires crews to travel from one remote area to another to stay on top of the fight.

On Tuesday, the province instituted widespread restrictions, including banning campfires, cancelling burn permits and limiting camping to designated campsites in much of southern Manitoba and the Interlake.

Fireworks are banned in all provincial parks and are a fire hazard in all dry areas.

The City of Winnipeg followed suit on Wednesday, announcing a ban on fires in backyard pits and at city parks; the use of fireworks and any appliance that requires solid fuel, such as charcoal and wood-burning barbecues, is also banned. Anyone who violates the ban is subject to a $500 fine.

cody.sellar@freepress.mb.ca
A key deadline for the proposed $400-million redevelopment of Portage Place mall could be postponed as developers continue to seek federal funding for the project.

A key deadline for the proposed $400-million redevelopment of Portage Place mall could be postponed as developers continue to seek federal funding for the project.

On Wednesday, councils executive policy committee voted 5-2 to let Toronto-based developer Starlight Investments get its construction financing in place by Oct. 31, instead of July 23, the original deadline tied to a $20-million city incentive package for the project.

Mayor Brian Bowman joined Couns. Scott Gillingham, Jeff Browaty, Cindy Gilroy and Sherri Rollins to support the extension, while Couns. Matt Allard and Brian Mayes opposed it.

"We want to support continued investments in our downtown and a better use of that space then we currently have," Bowman told media.

The extension issue next moves to a full council vote.

The proposed project aims to include two 20-storey residential towers with 550 to 600 housing units, nearly 500,000 square feet of office and retail space, a grocery store, and a 10,000-sq.-ft. community space with public washrooms.

A Starlight representative told EPC the company needs more time to secure federal funding. Its request to the senior government grew substantially this year, after the project was revised to ensure 30 per cent of the housing units have affordable rents.

"Really, all we did was ask for an additional amount of very standard construction financing, fully repayable loans," said Howie Paskowitz, Starlight executive director of development.

The developer originally asked for $20 million from each of the city, province and feds. In March, the federal government said Starlight asked for $50 million in cash and to provide a $243-million Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. loan.

In a June 30 letter to the City of Winnipeg, Starlight states talks remain underway over an "approximately" $250-million CMHC loan.

Paskowitz said Starlight has "absolutely no intention" of asking the city for additional financial support.

Starlight has previously said the project wont be completed without financial support from all three governments.

If council rejects the extension, that decision would cancel Winnipegs contribution.

The incentive package was narrowly approved 9-7 in July 2020, when several councillors expressed concerns they lacked the time and information to cast an informed vote.

On Wednesday, Mayes said he remains opposed to the extension because hes still concerned about a lack of transparency.

"Youre looking at a $20-million (incentive) package and were more than a year in and were being told (by Starlight) Just vote for it but there are many remaining moving parts that must remain confidential It would be nice to get more affordable housing, but at what cost and at what level of transparency?" he said.

Coun. Ross Eadie, who doesnt sit on EPC, told the committee hell vote against the extension at the council level, due to its reliance on tax dollars.

"Its really public dollars that are doing this, so why not have the federal government (lend money) to a (non-government organization) to build?" asked Eadie.

Gilroy, the property and development committee chairwoman, said the project should help downtown recover from the severe economic blows of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"In order for us to make sure we have a strong, healthy downtown, we need more people to live (there)  and this project could potentially do that. It also means we wouldnt have another boarded-up building downtown right across from the Bay if Portage Place isnt sold and the owner decides to close up shop," Gilroy told the Free Press.

Federal cabinet minister and Winnipeg MP Dan Vandal was not available for an interview about the funding request.

In an email, a CMHC spokesperson said the Crown corporation "remains open to considering and discussing" Starlights proposal.

The Manitoba government has promised to provide up to $28.7 million in education tax rebates to support the Portage Place redevelopment.

joyanne.pursaga@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @joyanne_pursaga
Manitoba's justice minister has requested an investigation into the conduct of lawyers affiliated with a non-profit organization whose president admitted hiring private investigators to spy on a judge.

Manitoba's justice minister has requested an investigation into the conduct of lawyers affiliated with a non-profit organization whose president admitted hiring private investigators to spy on a judge.

In a statement Thursday morning, Cameron Friesen said he's asked the Law Society of Manitoba to investigate the lawyers associated with the Calgary-based Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms.

"It is gravely concerning that a private investigator was hired to conduct surveillance of a member of the judiciary, ostensibly to embarrass or intimidate the judge," Friesen wrote.

"This is an obvious invasion of privacy, and it is difficult to believe that these actions were not intended to influence the outcome of the court case. The lawyers involved must be held accountable for their actions, in order to maintain public confidence in the administration of justice, to protect the integrity of our independent judiciary and uphold the rule of law in Canada."

The law society confirmed it received Friesen's complaint. It said once a complaint against a lawyer is received, it can't comment because of confidentiality policies.

"This is a complex multi-jurisdictional matter. Currently, we are looking into concerns expressed by the attorney general, working closely with our colleagues in Alberta to determine the appropriate next steps," spokeswoman Deirdre O'Reilly stated.

The Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms, a registered charity, is representing seven Manitoba churches in an ongoing court challenge arguing against the legality of COVID-19 public health restrictions.

Chief Justice Glenn Joyal was tasked with issuing a ruling in the case. He called a special court hearing Monday to inform all involved he'd discovered he was being trailed by a private investigator, who was observing his compliance with the public health orders.

John Carpay, an Alberta lawyer and centre president, later admitted he had hired the investigator  and said Joyal was one of several public officials he arranged to have tracked.

The centre's litigation director, Jay Cameron, had known about the private investigation for a couple of weeks, court heard Monday.

The Free Press asked the justice minister's office which lawyers it has requested an investigation into, and whether Friesen has been in touch with his counterparts in Alberta. The office said Friesen has not been in contact with the Alberta law society nor its justice department.

Carpay has taken an indefinite leave from his position as president. The Free Press inquired about whether Cameron will remain as a lawyer on the Manitoba churches' court challenge; he did not respond to requests for comment.

A Manitoba Justice spokeswoman said the department will not comment because the case is before the court.

Joyal said the incident won't affect his decision in the case; he's expected to issue his reasons for decision in a few weeks.

The revelation the same organization that launched the legal challenge hired private investigators to spy on the judge while the case was ongoing prompted national outcry in the legal community.

On Tuesday, Ottawa lawyer Richard Warman filed professional misconduct complaints against Carpay and Cameron to the Law Society of Alberta, and asked Manitoba's law society to look into the conduct of Allison Pejovic, who represented the churches on behalf of the Justice Centre.

The centre has launched anti-lockdown court challenges in several provinces during the pandemic.

During the court hearing, Carpay said he made the decision to hire private investigators to surveil Joyal and other, undisclosed public officials, because the public has a right to know whether public officials are following the public-health rules they enforce. He said the private investigation was separate from any of the centre's litigation work.

"That's a distinction without a difference. They were appearing as counsel for parties before Justice Joyal, and you don't get to take your hat off and say, 'Oh, that private investigator I hired to follow you home... that's related to something else other than this litigation,'" Warman said in an interview.

"Real life doesn't work that way, and I can't imagine the law society accepting that as a reasonable (or rational) explanation."

Canadian law protects judicial independence; judges are considered independent from government even though they're paid by public purse. It's a crime to intimidate any justice system participant or obstruct justice.

It's unclear whether any criminal charges will be laid. The Winnipeg Police Service has said it is investigating.

katie.may@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @thatkatiemay
Manitoba movie theatres can start up their projectors this weekend. But just because cinemas can reopen amid eased COVID-19 pandemic restrictions doesnt mean they will.

Manitoba movie theatres can start up their projectors this weekend. But just because cinemas can reopen amid eased COVID-19 pandemic restrictions doesnt mean they will.

The province has stipulated only those who have been fully vaccinated for two weeks may attend a cinema, at up to 50 per cent capacity. That means if you qualify, you may be able to catch Black Widow or F9 at Winnipegs Grant Park Cinemas or Landmark Cinemas 9 in Brandon.

But if youre waiting to see a movie at Landmark Cinema 5 in Winkler, where the vaccination rate is only 23.7 per cent (compared to the larger Manitoba rate of 59 per cent), youre out of luck.

That theatre will not be reopening for now, said Landmark Cinemas Canada chief executive officer Bill Walker.

"Im not passing judgement, right or wrong, but I am saying our business cant operate on that," Walker told the Free Press in a phone interview Wednesday. "Thats not going to be justifiable for us to open the doors there, with that limited capacity combined with a limited proportion of the population."

The news Manitoba cinemas could reopen to fully vaccinated patrons caught exhibitors by surprise. Walker said the Calgary-based company that operates 45 theatres in Canada had been in talks with the province on Monday.

"It was never signalled to us that it would be for only fully vaccinated Manitobans, which is half the population right now," Walker said. "Weve had to turn on a dime and figure out how to get open on Saturday," adding, however, its better to be partially open than not at all.

"Well take that as encouraging. Thats a great start," he said.

"But we felt like our businesses as is being held back, despite no specific health concern... It feels like were being used as a carrot as an incentive to get people vaccinated, but Im not really sure about the government choosing businesses to create incentives."

Manitoba appears to be going it alone with its vaccination requirement. Theatres in Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia and  as of Friday  Ontario will be open at either half or full capacities, but no other province is demanding patrons be fully vaccinated, Walker said.

While the patrons of the Manitoba cinemas may be fully vaccinated, there is no guarantee the employees will be.

"Its another complexity that we cant mandate vaccinations for our staff," Walker said. "So ironically, our guests may be fully vaccinated but theres really nothing we can do from a staff perspective to enforce that.

"We can encourage, promote and inform but theres no ability to demand it."

Some local Cineplex Inc. multiplexes will likely be opening Saturday, but the company would not comment Wednesday.

The downtown art house Cinematheque will be holding off until Aug. 13 for its "grand reopening," said Winnipeg Film Group interim director David Knipe.

randall.king@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @FreepKing
MLA Eileen Clarke has broken her silence about quitting Premier Brian Pallister's cabinet, saying she left due to the premiers comments on Indigenous people and his refusal to listen to his cabinet ministers.

MLA Eileen Clarke has broken her silence about quitting Premier Brian Pallister's cabinet, saying she left due to the premiers comments on Indigenous people and his refusal to listen to his cabinet ministers.

"I have been hearing from many people, all across the province that they are disappointed with the representation they feel they are not getting at this time," Clarke wrote in a Facebook post Thursday.

"I made the decision to step down from cabinet where I felt my voice and others are not being heard."

The former Indigenous and northern affairs minister wrote that she resigned after "a lot of thought and soul searching" and didnt want to be divisive, but felt it was important to be transparent about her resignation.

"Strong leadership is required to heal and bring our province and country together in harmony, it can not be done by one individual. Inappropriate words and actions can be very damaging."

A screen capture of the post Eileen Clarke wrote on her Facebook page Thursday morning.

At a Wednesday afternoon news conference on the easing of pandemic restrictions, Pallister had nothing but praise for Clarke, but refused to disclose any reasons she may have given him for leaving cabinet. He repeatedly refused to apologize for his comments last week.

"I have nothing but respect and admiration for Eileen Clarke," he said.

Meanwhile, the Southern Chiefs Organization joined a growing chorus of Indigenous groups and leaders praising Clarke for her decision to resign.

"I want to commend Eileen for her integrity and for this bold step. Eileen has always been dedicated as a minister and I thank her for her many years of service," SCO Grand Chief Daniels said in a statement Thursday morning. "Yesterdays news corroborates what I have long suspected; that provincial leadership and their outdated beliefs got in the way of her building the trust and relationships that she wanted with First Nations and other Indigenous peoples."

Last week, in response to protests at the legislature that damaged statues of Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria, Pallister defended European settlers as people who came to Canada to build a new life, with no deliberate attempt to destroy the lives of Indigenous peoples.

"The people who came here, to this country before it was a country, and since, didnt come here to destroy anything  they came here to build," the premier said at a news conference.

The remarks were unanimously denounced by Indigenous leaders, allies and historians as a gross manipulation of history and an insult to residential school survivors and their families.

fpcity@freepress.mb.ca
The Tataskweyak Cree Nation at Split Lake has declared a state of emergency after losing nine people to suicide in the past 14 months, including four in the last two months.

The Tataskweyak Cree Nation at Split Lake has declared a state of emergency after losing nine people to suicide in the past 14 months, including four in the last two months.

Other youth and adults have tried to take their own lives or have harmed themselves. Leaders on the northern reserve have reached out to Health Canada, Indigenous Services Canada, the provincial government, and the RCMP for help.

"We have reached a breaking point and our community is under crisis with alcohol and drugs contributing to it," says a statement issued by the band.

The First Nation said it is looking for "long-term solutions, such as 24/7 in-community mental health counselling.

Grand Chief Garrison Settee, of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, which represents northern First Nations, said in a statement he was "extremely saddened by the situation.

"My thoughts are with the community as they grapple with another loss of a young person due to suicide. Children are sacred. They are the heart of our communities... this is an unimaginable loss for this community and for our entire province."

Settee said he was in the community just last week "to pay my respects to friends who lost their child to suicide.

"The pain of losing your child is like no other. My heart goes out to those families who are trying to cope with their losses."

He used his statement to speak directly to the community's young people and other community members.

"You matter," he said. "You are important and you are loved.

"If you are considering harming yourself, please reach out to others for help. Suicide and harming yourself is not a solution to the problems you are facing.."

Settee said MKO has sent a mobile crisis response team to Split Lake and he will ask the federal and provincial governments for support, including mental-wellness supports, a crisis drop-in centre, and a commitment to help protect young people from drugs and bootlegging.

"Please keep Tataskweyak Cree Nation in your prayers."

Niki Ashton, the NDP MP for the vast northern riding, called on the federal government to help the community.

"(Ottawa) must pull out all the stops for the young people," said Ashton.

"The federal government cannot look away. I have heard from community members who have spoken clearly of the mental-health impacts of the COVID-19 crisis and what it means to have too few mental-health resources and supports. There must be immediate, as well as long-term actions, to save lives in (Tataskweyak)."

William Olscamp, a spokesman for Indigenous Services Canada, said it has been in contact with the community.

Olscamp said, in addition to the two mental health therapists, who provide support from Monday to Friday, they are arranging additional supports including two youth workers while the Canadian Red Cross will offer training for youth empowerment and psychological first aid.

"Additionally, ISC has secured a mental-health therapist to provide service over the weekend," he said.

As well, Olscamp said Tataskweyak Cree Nation has received $492,165 for 2021-22 under a community well-being program to help support children and families with services, including mental health and addictions, cultural and traditional programs, and in-home supports.

RCMP spokeswoman Tara Seel said the Mounties are putting in place "a more continuous front-line policing presence in the community during this critical time of much needed assistance and support.

"Our officers and management work hand in hand with local chief and council and other community agencies to determine and evaluate the policing needs of the community, and we will continue to do so during this difficult time."

Seel said the RCMP is targeting drugs and weapons offences in the community because local leaders told them they believe drugs and alcohol have contributed to the crisis.

Last week, RCMP arrested a 43-year-old man after seizing 580 grams of cocaine, several firearms, brass knuckles, and assorted drug paraphernalia from two homes in Split Lake.

Split Lake is 143 kilometres northeast of Thompson.

kevin.rollason@freepress.mb.ca
Its ironic that Brian Pallisters views on Indigenous peoples, arguably one of the things hes most proud of, will mark the end of his political career.

Its ironic that Brian Pallisters views on Indigenous peoples, arguably one of the things hes most proud of, will mark the end of his political career.

For years, the premier has touted his record of advocating for First Nations women and their matrimonial property rights on reserves.

As he stated in November 2006, while asking his fellow MPs to support a proposed law in Parliament: "Sovereign nations cannot exist without sovereign individuals. Five-hundred-thousand aboriginal women confident of their rights may be able to achieve what 5,000 federal bureaucrats will never achieve: better governance on the reserves of this country; more accountable governance on the reserves of this country."

Eileen Clarke, the Indigenous and northern affairs minister, resigned last week because of his comments about the events of Canada Day at the Manitoba legislature. (Mikaela MacKenzie / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Readers can be forgiven if they are surprised that this man, who once touted the importance of rights for First Nations, is the same who brought forward Bill 57 (which bans Indigenous peoples' right to protest), accused Indigenous hunters who invoked their constitutional rights as inciting a "race war," and said that First Nations getting COVID-19 vaccines (a treaty right to health, by the way) "puts Manitobans at the back of the line."

A list of Pallisters gaffes, ignorant statements, and racist comments (who can forget his July 2019 statement about having "confrontations" downtown?) is like stating the obvious: he clearly has no knowledge of Indigenous peoples, nor does he listen to anyone with expertise in the area.

If he did, he would have listened to those around him who said not to proceed with his 2017 "reconciliation ride" to "honour" the 1817 Peguis-Selkirk Treaty  which re-traced the path Peguis First Nation was forced to take by government agents when it was moved in 1907.

He doesnt want help, either. After his 2017 comments on Indigenous hunters, I offered him a spot in an Indigenous studies class I teach at the University of Manitoba. Instead, his office called the university administration to complain about me.

He doesnt want help, either. After his 2017 comments on Indigenous hunters, I offered him a spot in an Indigenous studies class I teach at the University of Manitoba. Instead, his office called the university administration to complain about me.

Pallisters statements about Indigenous peoples have become a much bigger issue. The party, politicians and supporters who surround Pallister have said and done nothing  enabling him to divide Manitobans with incendiary and violent language since being elected premier in 2016  so they deserve a much larger condemnation.

I get that Conservatives dont put much effort into Indigenous votes, but its as if the party is fine with ignoring 20 per cent of Manitoba's population, and being considered an archaic institution that condones racism.

However, something may have changed. For the first time publicly, a member of the PC party stood up to Pallister. Eileen Clarke, the Indigenous and northern relations minister resigned from cabinet last week because of his comments about the events of Canada Day at the Manitoba legislature.

For years, Premier Brian Pallister has touted his 2006 record of advocating for First Nations women and their matrimonial property rights on reserves. (Mikaela MacKenzie / Winnipeg Free Press)

Pallister said citizens "tore down" the statues of Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth. "We need to respect our heritage just as we need to respect one another.... The people who came here to this country  before it was a country and since  didn't come here to destroy anything. They came here to build. They came to build better."

This incorrect, one-dimensional perspective of history, which is right out of a 1950s textbook, was apparently the breaking point for Clarke. Her departure from cabinet was the first brave step by a major Conservative voice trying to escape from Pallisters ham-handed grip on the party.

Its more likely that Clarke will be punished because Pallister is notoriously vindictive, but other Conservatives may want to take note: the captains ship is sinking.

The opinion polls suggest that Wab Kinews NDP is rising everywhere, even in rural Manitoba. In constituencies that never would have voted for an Indigenous premier, Kinew is now an option.

Clarke, who represents the thoroughly blue riding of Agassiz, which includes Neepawa, Carberry, and MacGregor, is a rural politician who is tired of Pallisters innate ignorance and divisive rhetoric.

Maybe voters in Agassiz are interested in reconciliation, too.

Conservatives should take notice. If you want proof Canadians are interested in reconciliation, look at the time they are spending learning about unmarked gravesites at residential schools.

In Clarkes defence, she did achieve some success in what has no doubt been a difficult portfolio in the Pallister government.

She led initiatives that brought mental health and addictions strategies to First Nations, economic progress for First Nations on cannabis, and an impressive $100,000 workshop on reconciliation for all provincial civil servants.

I wonder if Pallister took this training.

Im going to guess he didn't.

niigaan.sinclair@freepress.mb.ca
Selkirk MLA Alan Lagimodiere is Manitoba's new minister responsible for Indigenous affairs.

DAVID LIPNOWSKI / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Selkirk MLA Alan Lagimodiere is Manitoba's new minister responsible for Indigenous affairs.

Lagimodiere, who was first elected for the Progressive Conservatives in 2016, was appointed to cabinet Thursday in a newly renamed portfolio after the resignation of former Indigenous and northern relations minister Eileen Clarke.

Lagimodiere is now the minister for Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations. He is Metis and grew up in northern Manitoba.

Premier Brian Pallister shuffled cabinet Thursday, appointing two MLAs to their first cabinet portfolios and returning one to a former role.

Ralph Eichler, formerly minister of economic development and jobs, is now minister of agriculture and resource development, a portfolio he's previously held.

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES PC MLA Ralph Eichler is now minister of agriculture and resource development

Waverley MLA Jon Reyes is the new minister of economic development and jobs.

Former agriculture minister Blaine Pedersen was shuffled out and is retiring, Pallister said. The premier thanked Clarke and Pedersen for their work. They both served in cabinet for the past five years.

"I thank you for your dedicated service to the people of Manitoba. Your work has been appreciated, and your continued work as part of our team and government is essential and we look forward to working with you, as well."

The cabinet shuffle presentation was closed to news media but was livestreamed by the government.

Clarke resigned because she felt she wasn't being listened to, she wrote in a Facebook post Thursday morning. Her resignation came after Pallister made comments last week that were criticized as supporting colonialism and downplaying the history of residential schools in Canada.

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES MLA Eileen Clarke has quit Premier Brian Pallister's cabinet.

When asked Wednesday why Clarke resigned, Pallister wouldn't offer specifics and praised Clarke.

In her statement, Clarke said she wanted to be transparent about the reasons for her departure.

"I have in the past made commitments to the people that I represent in government; my constituents, Indigenous people and all Manitobans who expect us the speak and act on their behalf. I have been hearing from many people, all across the province that they are disappointed with the representation they feel they are not getting at this time," she wrote.

"I feel I need to do better and for many reasons I made the decision to step down from Cabinet where I felt my voice and others are not being heard.

"I did speak up on issues that were sent to me and I will continue to do so. Change is necessary; today I commit to doing whats right for the people of Manitoba and myself. It is not my intent to divide or be disrespectful, but I do feel transparency is required. Strong leadership is required to heal and bring our province and country together in harmony, it can not be done by one individual. Inappropriate words and actions can be very damaging."

She resigned last Friday, two days after Pallister publicly denounced protesters tearing down of statues of Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth on the grounds of the Legislative Building on Canada Day. Thousands of people rallied in the streets July 1 as a show of support for residential school survivors following the discovery of unmarked graves on the grounds of residential schools in B.C. and Saskatchewan. A few of those who attended split off from the crowd and toppled the statues in Winnipeg.

"The people who came to this country, before it was a country and since, didn't come here to destroy anything. They came here to build. They came to build better, they did. And they built farms, and they built businesses and they built communities and churches too," Pallister said.

He said Canada's history has had good and bad moments, "and Canada Day was one of those bad moments, but we need to respect our heritage."

 Staff
PUBLIC health leaders in Manitoba are developing recommendations for the government in considering mandatory COVID-19 vaccination in vulnerable settings.

PUBLIC health leaders in Manitoba are developing recommendations for the government in considering mandatory COVID-19 vaccination in vulnerable settings.

Dr. Joss Reimer, medical lead for the provinces COVID-19 vaccine task force, said conversations are underway related to policies in certain sectors.

"There are discussions around the merits and the downfalls of making vaccines mandatory in things like personal care homes or corrections or acute care facilities," Reimer said. "As of today, theres no finalized recommendations from public health, but that is being discussed to come up with a recommendation."

So far in Manitoba, vaccination status has conferred additional privileges to individuals as the province rolls back pandemic restrictions.

However, government officials have noted presenting proof of immunization status to gain entry to events or establishments is not intended to be a permanent measure as more Manitobans are vaccinated.

However, in vulnerable sectors such as long-term care, at least one private, for-profit operator has already told prospective hires COVID-19 vaccination will be required.

Revera Inc., which operates 12 personal care homes in Manitoba, said COVID-19 vaccination will be a condition of employment for new hires, "except when impossible due to legitimate, established exceptions," beginning this month. Daily COVID-19 testing will be required for unvaccinated staff and PPE requirements will remain in place even after they are no longer required by government public health officials.

According to Shared Health, which oversees the operations of Manitobas largest hospital, new employees are currently required to confirm immunization or demonstrated immunity to rubella, measles, mumps, pertussis, Hepatitis B, and chicken pox, at entry into a position or clinical placement in a health-care practice setting.

Influenza vaccination is not mandated at Shared Health facilities.

 Danielle Da Silva
Premier Brian Pallister, who has urged everyone who's eligible to get a shot, says two of his MLAs who haven't been vaccinated have no obligation to inform the public.

Premier Brian Pallister, who has urged everyone who's eligible to get a shot, says two of his MLAs who haven't been vaccinated have no obligation to inform the public.

"Im not going to be talking about personal health details with anyone; thats the choice of every Manitoban," he said Wednesday.

On Monday, the Free Press revealed two PC MLAs, including a cabinet minister, have not had both vaccine doses. The party refused to name them or specify whether either had received just one shot, citing privacy.

Five MLAs, including one cabinet minister, did not reply to the Free Press request this week, which opposition leaders deemed hypocritical.

Infrastructure Minister Ron Schulers press secretary, his Springfield-Ritchot constituency office and the PC cabinet ignored queries about his vaccination status.

The Free Press received no response from the office of Janice Morley-Lecomte (Seine River).

The office of Alan Lagimodiere (Selkirk) also did not respond, though he has posted on social media about the importance of getting vaccinated.

Meanwhile, Andrew Micklefield and Bob Lagasse have both posted to social media about getting one vaccine dose, but their offices did not respond to multiple queries as to whether they got the second dose.

Manitoba officials say its imperative all Manitobans who can get vaccinated receive both shots, due to the rise of more infectious COVID-19 variants.

NDP Leader Wab Kinew said MLAs who have a medical reason that prevents them from getting vaccinated, should make that fact public.

"If the government is asking Manitobans, who are able, to get double-vaccinated if they want to fully participate in our society, is that going to be the same standard for MLAs?" Kinew asked. "Will they be able to go into the chamber, or go to various events?"

Liberal Leader Dougald Lamont linked a refusal to get vaccinated with Manitobas brutal second and third waves of COVID-19.

"There are people in the premier's caucus who don't believe the pandemic is serious, (who) don't believe in vaccines, and don't believe in public health, period," he said. "That kind of thinking  the fact the premier is not willing to confront it  is one of the reasons why we've had such a disastrous pandemic response."

Political analyst Paul Thomas noted that Pallister entered politics specifically to fight government intrusion, and built his base on that platform.

"In an emergency, the government acquires a great deal of power over individuals  and this goes against the grain for a person like Brian Pallister," said Thomas, a University of Manitoba professor emeritus.

The premier framed the lack of disclosure from his MLAs as a matter of freedom.

"Weve respected that choice and that right of every Manitoban to make decisions with their own body from the outset; were going to continue to," Pallister said Wednesday. "Were going to do everything we can to encourage Manitobans to make the choice of getting a vaccination, and then getting another one."

Thomas said this fits a pattern in which the PC government has urged Manitobans to lean on personal responsibility and follow the spirit of guidelines to contain the risk of COVID-19, instead of implementing stricter measures, as demanded by medical professionals.

"You have a premier who's not been a strong spokesperson for some of these rules; he's been inconsistent at best and not fully truthful about what should be done and what is being done," Thomas said.

He said Canadians expect elected officials to share a fair amount of personal information, but normally anything pertaining to health is off-limits. This may have changed during the pandemic, Thomas said, because leaders have taken away freedom and imposed rules such as mask mandates.

Thomas also said vaccination has become a political-identity issue, making it a touchy matter in rural parts of Manitoba.

"People in urban settings are better educated, see themselves as being more sophisticated  whether that's true or not  so they're more prepared to be led by science and evidence perhaps than people in rural communities, particularly socially homogenous communities," he said.

"There's a lot of peer pressure out there to go along with the community."

dylan.robertson@freepress.mb.ca
Citing the importance of residents being decision makers in local school operations, a growing number of Manitoba municipalities are making known their opposition to the Pallister governments pending overhaul of public education.

Citing the importance of residents being decision makers in local school operations, a growing number of Manitoba municipalities are making known their opposition to the Pallister governments pending overhaul of public education.

At least one town and five rural municipalities have passed motions to publicly condemn Bill 64 (Education Modernization Act). Next week, Winnipeg city councillors will contemplate doing the same.

"The trustees are all local people and they know what goes on at the school and where the buses are going and everything. If (decision making) gets too far away, I don't think itll be too good," said Barry Lowes, reeve of the RM of Ellice-Archie.

Lowes and his colleagues approved a resolution July 8 that argues replacing trustees with a centralized authority of government appointees would "remove local democratic accountability from education."

"The trustees are all local people and they know what goes on at the school and where the buses are going and everything. If (decision making) gets too far away, I don't think itll be too good," said Barry Lowes, reeve of the RM of Ellice-Archie. (Tim Smith / Brandon Sun files)

Other items in Bill 64 that have sparked scrutiny among rural families include the province lifting both a moratorium on school closures and the one-way time cap on bus commutes.

Ryan Mangin said he is "extremely concerned" about how removing the hour-long bus ride limit opens up possibilities for the regionalization of small schools. The father of twos concerns prompted him to join Rural Voices United, one of many anti-Bill 64 campaigns that have cropped up recently.

"There are people in town that are Conservative donors and they have (Bill) 64 signs on their lawns," said Mangin, who lives in Holland, a community in Education Minister Cliff Cullens constituency.

Extensive community consultation is required before a decision to shutter a school is made. Without elected trustees, who are well-known in tight-knit rural communities, a major accountability mechanism will be lost, said Mangin, whose wife works in the Prairie Spirit School Division.

The province touts reforms that will address high trustee acclamation rates, empower parents at the school level, and streamline administrative expenses to redirect up to $40 million to classrooms.

Alan Campbell called the fact municipalities are now condemning Bill 64 a "significant development". (Ruth Bonneville / Winnipeg Free Press files)

The Manitoba School Boards Association is chief among the plan's critics.

"When you remove the local board and you have a bureaucrat in Winnipeg making decisions about potential school closures in rural Manitoba communities that they dont even know exist, thats a significant threat to the life of that rural community," said association president Alan Campbell.

Campbell called the fact municipalities are now condemning Bill 64 a "significant development," noting approximately five years ago, public outrage, including vocal support from municipalities, in Saskatchewan prompted that province to abandoned its plan to abolish elected boards.

The long-time trustee anticipates more towns will condemn the overhaul because of their vested interest in their local economy. Board offices not only employ residents, but they also support area businesses through local procurement practices, he added.

The education minister was not made available for an interview Wednesday. In a statement, Cullen said school boards are committed to their campaigns of "fear and misinformation"  especially in rural areas, and are focused on the status quo rather than improvements.

In a statement, Education Minister Cliff Cullen said school boards are committed to their campaigns of "fear and misinformation"  especially in rural areas, and are focused on the status quo rather than improvements. (Ruth Bonneville / Winnipeg Free Press files)

"Our government is committed to rural Manitoba and its economies. Weve stated previously procurement practices in rural and northern areas will continue where it makes sense, to meet local needs and to support rural and northern economies and jobs," he added.

Decisions about purchasing agreements will be part of detailed planning for the new governance model, according to a provincial spokesperson.

Manitoba Chambers of Commerce did not provide comment in time for publication Wednesday.

The Association of Manitoba Municipalities indicated in a statement it recently met with the minister, who assured officials the legislation is aimed at improving educational outcomes. The association said it is aware there are varying opinions on Bill 64 among its members and continues to monitor discussions.

maggie.macintosh@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @macintoshmaggie
I just returned from five days in Alberta. Flying for the first time in 16 months was certainly a different experience, and arriving in Edmonton, two weeks after Premier Jason Kenney declared that province was open for summer, was almost surreal. The stringent requirement to wear masks and to ensure you used hand sanitizer disappeared as soon as you left the airport. It was as if everyone felt that pandemic was over  the excitement was palatable.

Opinion

I just returned from five days in Alberta. Flying for the first time in 16 months was certainly a different experience, and arriving in Edmonton, two weeks after Premier Jason Kenney declared that province was open for summer, was almost surreal. The stringent requirement to wear masks and to ensure you used hand sanitizer disappeared as soon as you left the airport. It was as if everyone felt that pandemic was over  the excitement was palatable.

Certainly, the hotel staff upon my arrival wore masks, but as my visit extended, it was clear that this wasnt a regular thing. The masks did not stay on. In grocery stores, while all the workers there remained fully masked, the patrons were about 75 per cent unmasked, walking around the store, largely ignoring the two-metre rule, talking to friends and acquaintances, and carrying on about their business.

This, however, was just outside Edmonton, in the city of Leduc, where my father lives. People there seemed a bit more casual.

I did visit the Old Strathcona Farmers Market in Edmonton last Saturday morning. This was a traditional haunt for me back when I lived in that city  a favourite thing to do when I was working on my studies at the University of Alberta. Its open year-round and offers great produce and fruit, as well as other homemade goodies and crafts.

This venue saw a much heavier mask usage, with most folks wearing them and following the directional arrows so that there was limited crowding. Thats not surprising  this is a section of Edmonton that has regularly elected progressive MPs and MLAs, acting against the tide of conservative ideology within the province.

At shops and throughout the city of Edmonton, I saw people looking at me somewhat strangely as I wore my mask, determined to ensure my safety. My dad kept telling me it wasnt necessary, but I felt it was.

On my way back to Winnipeg, I had to fly through Calgary because there were no direct flights on Monday. There, I encountered several instances where people were not wearing masks inside the airport, despite the fact that this is a requirement. They took them off the minute they were seated and put them on when they moved around.

When I landed in Winnipeg, I was handed a sheet that informed me I had to self-isolate for two weeks because I had travelled out of the province. I plan on doing that, despite the fact I have had both my vaccine shots, largely because of my exposure to so many people who werent wearing masks. Heres why:

In order for us to be safe  relatively safe  we have to have 70 per cent of Canadians with both vaccines. Right now in Manitoba, we only have around 50 per cent of those over 12. Its going to be some time before we hit that 70 per cent level. (Just as a sidebar, the two Conservative MLAs who dont have their vaccines now should get them soon, or at the very least explain that they are medically incapable of getting the vaccine. Its the responsible thing to do.) I dont want to risk someones life by infecting them with a virus from which I am now somewhat immune.

Second, I am also aware that I can still get COVID-19 after being vaccinated, although the chances are much reduced and the effect of the disease would be much less severe and likely wont require hospitalization. There is much less risk of long-term effects from the disease, as well.

Like everyone else, I am sick to death of having to wear a mask, having to hand-sanitize and not being able to hug the people I love. Being in Alberta, around family and friends who are all doubly vaccinated like me, reminded me of how hard this has been on all of us. But I have been incredibly lucky, and no one I know has died because of COVID-19.

Now, we just need to hang on a bit longer, until we hit that 70 per cent magic number. Until then, we should all follow the public-health guidelines and wear our masks, self-isolate after travelling out of province and wash our hands. And most of all, get vaccinated.

Shannon Sampert is a Winnipeg-based political scientist and the former politics and perspectives editor of the Winnipeg Free Press.

shannon@mediadiva.ca
THE Wests list of security concerns around Chinas ascent to superpower status is long, from the ruling Chinese Communist Partys persecution of Muslim minorities in Xinjiang and its subjugation of Hong Kong, to Chinas support for Myanmars military junta, obfuscation of the origins of COVID-19, affinity for hostage diplomacy, weaponization of trade, cyberespionage and more.

Opinion

THE Wests list of security concerns around Chinas ascent to superpower status is long, from the ruling Chinese Communist Partys persecution of Muslim minorities in Xinjiang and its subjugation of Hong Kong, to Chinas support for Myanmars military junta, obfuscation of the origins of COVID-19, affinity for hostage diplomacy, weaponization of trade, cyberespionage and more.

However, none of these issues holds the potential for explosive confrontation like Chinas ongoing capture of the South China Sea.

The South China Sea stretches 3.5 million square kilometres from Chinas southern coastline to Malaysia, possessing abundant fish stocks and massive untapped oil, mineral and gas reserves. Its waterways are also a vital artery for global trade, with one-third of the worlds goods, worth more than US$3.3 trillion, transiting the region every year.

China claims 90 per cent of the strategic area for itself, including parts some 2,000 kilometres away from its mainland. Various Chinese scholars say there is historical evidence that Chinas past imperial empires exercised sovereignty over the waters for centuries; half a dozen nearby nations disagree. Modern maritime law is also not on Chinas side.

A UN tribunal in 2016 rejected Chinas territorial claims. But with no means of enforcement apparent, China has carried on dredging up the sea floor to create a series of artificial islands and military installations across the region, complete with airfields, warplane hangars, radar stations, long-range missile batteries and naval harbors capable of sheltering nuclear submarines.

This spectacular feat of engineering is in effect manifesting Chinas debunked claims into reality.

China has simultaneously enabled itself to project power far from its shores, amassing a naval armada larger than that of the U.S.  including one refurbished aircraft carrier, a second domestically built prototype and a third under construction. Chinas aggressive fishing fleet, consisting of hundreds of thousands of vessels, also doubles as a maritime militia force. Beijing has conspicuously flexed these new capabilities, drawing pushback from the West.

Chinas Communist Party in February passed new legislation permitting the Chinese coast guard to fire upon foreign ships unauthorized to enter Chinese waters, an overt response to the way the U.S. navy and its allies, including Canada, routinely conduct freedom of navigation exercises throughout the region, most recently in June.

These drills are meant to test Beijings will in accordance with established laws  to which China is a signatory  that specify vessels from any nation can freely pass through international waters.

Smaller nations that ring the South China Sea are also mobilizing over the rising tensions. Malaysia raised the alarm in early June after 16 Chinese warplanes breached its airspace, while the Philippines government was recently granted approval to buy US$ 2.5 billion worth of new American fighter jets and missiles after more than 200 Chinese fishing vessels in March gathered off a disputed reef claimed by Manila.

Indonesia and Vietnam have both recently upgraded their own maritime forces, and an economic bloc of 10 southeast Asian countries is attempting to institute a diplomatic code of conduct for the region.

Then theres Taiwan, which has its own territorial claims within the South China Sea.

Chinas Communist Party views the autonomous, democratically governed island of 23 million people as a renegade Chinese province, and Chinas President Xi Jinping has vowed to bring the country under Chinese control during his time as leader  by force if necessary. Chinese warplanes now probe Taiwanese airspace on a near-daily basis, and the Chinese military conducted an amphibious combat landing exercise near Taiwan in June.

Numerous experts predict that China, having sealed its grip on Hong Kong, may set its sights on Taiwan next.

But whether a Chinese military operation could successfully annex Taiwan is debatable. Some observers even say that hyping Chinas threat to Taiwan plays into the Communist Partys hands by instilling false fear of a looming invasion that Beijing can leverage to its advantage in other ways. Any attack on Taiwan would also badly damage the global economy  China included  given that the island nation produces more than half of the worlds supply of semiconductors.

Instead of a premeditated attack, the bigger risk of violence breaking out in the South China Sea as military hardware pours into the region may stem from an accident or miscalculation spiralling out of control. The Biden administrations lead authority for Asia said in May that when tested, the crisis de-escalation hotlines linking Chinese and American defence officials "have just rung, kind of endlessly in empty rooms."

It seems very likely there are rough waters ahead.

Kyle Hiebert is a Winnipeg-based researcher and analyst, and former deputy editor of the Africa Conflict Monitor
ALL of us should be horrified by the initial Tkemlups te Secwepemc discovery of 215 unmarked graves of Indigenous students at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School in British Columbia. There are so many stories about Canadas ugly residential school legacy yet to be fully explored.

Opinion

ALL of us should be horrified by the initial Tkemlups te Secwepemc discovery of 215 unmarked graves of Indigenous students at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School in British Columbia. There are so many stories about Canadas ugly residential school legacy yet to be fully explored.

One of those is the painful accounts of student-on-student abuse at these horrendous schools. Retired senator Murray Sinclair, the former chairman of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, described this terrible abuse in a May 2017 Canadian Press interview as an "unspoken truth."

It is critical to state from the outset that this commentary is not about ascribing blame to residential school survivors, seeking to hold them to account or to downplay a well-documented record of unspeakable abuse by teachers, staff and school administrators. As Grant Charles and Mike Degagne, researchers of peer-to-peer abuse at residential schools, point out: "The abuse happened not because of something wrong or weak or bad about the young people who hurt their peers."

My purpose here is to highlight just how monstrous these residential schools were  and how survivors and Indigenous communities are still trying to come to terms with what happened there. It is important to remember the self-perpetuating cycle of student-to-student abuse over successive generations who attended these schools and the intergenerational trauma and fallout that continues to this day.

A few years ago, an Indigenous student in one of my classes mentioned that her mother had been abused by another student at her residential school. She spoke powerfully about how her mother was re-traumatized every time that she saw this person in her community  triggering painful flashbacks and intense feelings of anger. I could see the visceral and visible pain on her face.

"Many people didnt want to talk to (the commission) about student-to-student abuse because they were often still living in the community with their abuser," Sinclair said. "They were often still in a position where their abuser was now a person of prominence in their community, a leader, an elected leader or an elder."

When referencing peer-to-peer "abuse," I am primarily speaking about physical, emotional and sexual abuse. Some survivors have spoken publicly about other students, oftentimes older, bullying the younger ones.

Regarding their attendance at the notorious St. Annes Indian Residential School in Fort Albany, Ont., between 1963 and 1971, one female survivor spoke about this in the early 1990s to Ontario Provincial Police investigators. "It got to the point where older girls would beat up the younger girls," she said. "I beat up my younger sister We did this to get rid of our frustration."

Tragically, these young children were forced from their families, homes and communities, stripped of their cultures, traditions and self-identity, placed within a punishing foreign environment and subjected to violent and harsh behaviour on a daily basis. Sadly, there were cases in which students were both perpetrators and victims of abuse at these residential schools.

Indeed, its not unusual for those victimized and abused to be transformed into abusers themselves. In the words of Sinclair: "Part of that can be attributed to the fact (that) thats how they were abused, and thats how they were treated by  the adults within the schools that they went to."

Unfortunately, we dont have accurate numbers on the prevalence of abuse that occurred among students at these schools. Amy Bombay, in a 2014 study for the Aboriginal Healing Foundation, notes that anecdotal reports intimate such abuse was "common." She singles out a Globe and Mail story that reported that 20 per cent of the claims before the Independent Assessment Process (IAP) adjudicators involved student-to-student abuse.

The more salient issue here is explaining why this peer-on-peer abuse happened in the first place. It is worth recalling the awful milieu in which these students were trapped: constant abusive behaviour by authority figures, their own traumatic reactions to abuse and a strict daily regimentation and the normalization of abuse among students.

As Bombay recounts, there were even reported instances in which residential school staff taught or forced children to abuse other students.

In the face of widespread violence and neglect, which engendered feelings of fear, distrust and powerlessness, many students were forced into survival mode and left to fend for themselves. According to Bombay, "This drove some students to abuse others as a reaction or an attempt to gain some kind of feeling of control over their lives."

Of course, not every student at residential schools engaged in abusive behaviour toward other students. Nor did every abused student become abusive to others. There is enough extant evidence, however, to argue that peer-to-peer abuse was a devastatingly serious and ongoing tragedy.

Not only does it cry out for further investigation and understanding; it also exposes how much more there is to learn about these treacherous schools.

Peter McKenna is professor of political science at the University of Prince Edward Island in Charlottetown.
A critical aspect of Manitobas economic recovery from the pandemic will be robust participation by the workforce. Child-care fees as low as $10 a day would help more Manitobans get back to work.

A critical aspect of Manitobas economic recovery from the pandemic will be robust participation by the workforce. Child-care fees as low as $10 a day would help more Manitobans get back to work.

Historic funding deals with the federal government were signed by two provinces, Nova Scotia on Tuesday and British Columbia last Thursday, that will eventually reduce child-care costs to an average of $10 per day for children under six years old in those provinces.

Manitoba parents of young children can only wish child care was so affordable. In Winnipeg, fees in for-profit pre-school centres are $933 per month, non-profit infant fees are $651, and non-profit pre-school fees are $451.

The Trudeau Liberals deals with B.C. and Nova Scotia are the initial forays of a bid to build a national daycare system, which Ottawa is funding with a federal pool of $27.2 billion in new funding announced in Aprils federal budget. Ottawas offer is open to all provinces, an opportunity Manitoba would be wise to investigate.

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Minister of Families Rochelle Squires

The timing of the Liberals eagerness to partner with provinces is strategic, coming at a time of abundant speculation that a federal vote will soon be called. The child-care deals can reasonably be seen as pre-election campaigning.

Boosting the re-election bid of the Liberals would be a tough pill to swallow for the Progressive Conservative government of Manitoba, as well as for Conservative provincial governments in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Ontario.

In fact, before the pandemic hit, the provincial Conservative leaders, united in a stand against the Liberals carbon-tax plan, were touted as "Justin Trudeaus worst nightmare" and the "new opposition" to the federal Liberals. Some even saw Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister emerging as a possible leader of the new alliance of Conservative premiers.

That was then. This is now, when Manitobans would benefit considerably if the Pallister government can overcome its allergy to partnering with the federal Liberals and get in line for the child-care deal.

An example of how the deal would work was outlined in B.C.: the agreement requires that province to have created at least 12,500 $10-a-day spaces by the end of next year and create 30,000 new spaces in the next five years; the deal holds B.C. to levels of affordability, quality of care and training of early-childhood educators.

Manitoba should overlook past friction in its relationship with Ottawa and, putting a priority on whats best for Manitoba families, try to negotiate a better deal with federal childcare funding, as B.C. and Nova Scotia have done.

The federal availability of new child-care funding comes as Manitoba is already in the process of restructuring its child-care system. A report by KPMG, commissioned by Manitoba and released in April, recommended an extensive overhaul of the funding system, cutting the operating grants for licensed child-care centres and moving toward a parent-based funding model involving grants and incentives paid directly to families. More provincial funding would reduce the fees of lower-income families, while higher-income families would pay more.

Manitoba Families Minister Rochelle Squires said she will consider the KPMG reports transformative recommendations, but said she will also talk to parents and consult with child-care providers. She hasnt yet said she will also talk to Ottawa, but she should.

Manitoba should overlook past friction in its relationship with Ottawa and, putting a priority on whats best for Manitoba families, try to negotiate a better deal with federal child-care funding, as B.C. and Nova Scotia have done.

With the economy on the verge of opening up, Manitobas recovery will depend on vigorous participation in the workforce by all family members who want to work outside the home. Affordable child care can help it happen.
Many overnight camps in Manitoba wont survive another closed summer without some sort of financial support from the province, according to one advocacy group.

Many overnight camps in Manitoba wont survive another closed summer without some sort of financial support from the province, according to one advocacy group.

While day camps are currently allowed to run, with up to 25 people in attendance, overnight camps have remained closed since March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / FREE PRESS FILES The MCA just really wants to government to help the summer and overnight camp industry with a financial package to help them survive, Kim Scherger said Thursday.

The Manitoba Camping Association estimates 50,000 youth usually attend summer camps, but with overnight facilities left out of the reopening process, many are either staying home or travelling to nearby provinces with less restrictive rules, according to executive director Kim Scherger.

"The MCA just really wants to government to help the summer and overnight camp industry with a financial package to help them survive," she said Thursday.

Scherger said the province was planning to reopen overnight camps in March, but held off after COVID-19 variants appeared in the province.

Funding specific to camp programming isnt a new idea in Canada  the Quebec government set aside $20 million and Alberta has offered a $50,000 grant to camps in need  but Manitoba has yet to offer anything beyond the basic supports.

"The only reason (camps) have survived as long as they have is because of their supporters that they have, who have been giving donations to help them survive, because the majority of them are non-profits as well," Scherger said.

Meanwhile, Manitoban children are travelling to overnight camps in Saskatchewan and Ontario, and staff are making the trip as well in hopes of finding work, Scherger said.

"Whatever our rules are for isolating, parents are willing to do that to get their kids to camp. So why not have them just go to camp here and support our own economy locally, instead of going out of province and having to come back and isolate?"

According to the MCA, around 2,000 people are employed through Manitobas camps.

Day camps are currently allowed with capped attendance, but many operators are unable to function as day camps because their base is too remote. Many day camps typically bring in 100-200 campers weekly, meaning the income coming in is meagre.

"When weve gone for almost a year-and-a-half now without being able to be open, theres so many bills and debts that are mounting for camps, that were wanting to have funding supplied to from the government in order to survive for future years  or for this year, even," Scherger said.

The MCA hasnt received an explanation from the province as to why overnight camps are currently prohibited, she said, adding camps offer a structured space for young people where sanitary regulations have to be maintained.

"We had created an open camp safely plan for all of our camps to abide by that information, to make sure they had everything ready," she said.

malak.abas@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: malakabas_
OTTAWA - New Democrat Leader Jagmeet Singh is rejecting the idea of a one-time wealth tax that Parliament's budget watchdog says could raise tens of billions of dollars, pushing instead for an ongoing tax on the "ultra rich."

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh holds a press conference on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Wednesday, June 23, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

OTTAWA - New Democrat Leader Jagmeet Singh is rejecting the idea of a one-time wealth tax that Parliament's budget watchdog says could raise tens of billions of dollars, pushing instead for an ongoing tax on the "ultra rich."

In a report Thursday, parliamentary budget officer Yves Giroux estimated that a one-time tax of three per cent and five per cent on Canadians with net wealth over $10 million and $20 million respectively would yield between $44 billion and $61 billion.

He qualified that his projection amounted to a "back-of-the-envelope calculation" informed by "avoidance/evasion behaviour with respect to the U.S. estate tax" and other factors.

However, Singh is sticking to his proposal from last year that calls for an annual tax of one per cent on families with fortunes over $20 million.

"We dont believe in a one-time tax. We believe that the ultra wealthy should always be paying their fair share. And we know that there are a lot of loopholes that mean that the ultra rich dont pay their fair share at all," he told reporters at a news conference in London, Ont.

He said the budget officer's report shows there's plenty of revenue to be gleaned by government, but he believes a continuous tax on "ultra-wealthy" residents is the proper path to fair contributions.

Singh is also demanding a"pandemic profiteering tax" that would temporarily target web giants such as Google, Netflix and Amazon who are "taking that money offshore and not paying their fair share."

"All this has happened because the Liberals and Conservatives have let them do this," he said.

The Liberals disagreed with Singh's characterization, pointing to a middle-class tax cut, higher personal income taxes for those earning over $150,000, and the Canada Child Benefit as among the measures "to make Canada fairer and more equitable for all."

"We are committed to ensuring that everyone pays their fair share of tax so we continue to have the resources needed to invest in people and to help our economy recover the COVID-19 pandemic," Katherine Cuplinskas, a spokeswoman for Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, said in an email.

She also noted an extra $304 million in the April budget for the Canada Revenue Agency to combat tax evasion and avoidance as well as the requirement, effective at the beginning of this month, for foreign digital platforms such as Netflix and Spotify to collect and remit taxes in Canada.

Conservative national revenue critic Philip Lawrence also disputed Singh's characterization.

Contrary to NDP talking points, Canadas Conservatives actually created programs to stop international tax evasion. We believe the same rules apply to everyone. This is unlike the Liberals, who routinely apply one set of rules for everyday Canadians and a different set for well-connected Liberals and insiders," he said in a statement.

As the country marches toward a likely election this year, the NDP is proposing to use the wealth-tax windfalls to pay for pricey pledges such as national pharmacare and long-term care home funding.

Singh's stance against a one-shot wealth tax comes as he travels the country in a campaign-style tour to promote an NDP jobs plan and other platform planks.

He unveiled Wednesday the party's plan to create one million jobs  a goal the Liberals and Conservatives have also pledged to reach. It includes a promise that infrastructure projects funded would use Canadian steel and other domestic goods to fuel employment.

The NDP's jobs blueprint focuses heavily on past promises, including better supports for workers through a national dental care program, 10 days of paid sick leave and higher minimum wages.

Compared with a one-time wealth tax of up to five per cent, the NDP's would-be annual tax would yield less money for Ottawa in the short term but potentially more in the long term, according to figures from the parliamentary budget officer.

Last July, Giroux estimated that a recurring net wealth tax of one per cent would pour $5.6 billion into federal coffers in 2020-21, courtesy of some 13,800 well-heeled families. That falls short of up to $12.1 billion in revenue in the first year of a one-time wealth tax, which would be collected in instalments over five years.

Data from the Canada Revenue Agency shows its recent efforts to combat tax evasion by the super-rich have resulted in zero prosecutions or convictions.

In response to a question tabled in Parliament by NDP MP Matthew Green, the CRA said it referred 44 cases on individuals whose net worth topped $50 million to its criminal investigations program since 2015.

Only two of those cases proceeded to federal prosecutors, with no charges laid afterward.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 15, 2021.
MOSCOW (AP)  Russian authorities on Thursday outlawed the publisher of an investigative media outlet and listed its journalists as foreign agents, the latest move in a series of steps to raise pressure on independent media.

FILE - In this Thursday, Oct. 6, 2016 file photo, Roman Badanin, chief editor of the Proekt investigative online outlet sits at a working lace in Moscow, Russia. Russian authorities on Thursday, July 15, 2021 declared the publisher of investigative media outlet Proekt an "undesirable" organization and listed several of its journalists as "foreign agents," the latest move in a series of steps to raise pressure on independent media. (AP Photo/Evgeny Feldman, File)

MOSCOW (AP)  Russian authorities on Thursday outlawed the publisher of an investigative media outlet and listed its journalists as "foreign agents," the latest move in a series of steps to raise pressure on independent media.

The Proekt online outlet has published investigative reports exposing alleged corruption and abuses by top officials and tycoons close to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The Prosecutor General's office outlawed Project Media Inc. the U.S.-based publisher of Proekt, as an "undesirable" organization, charging that it "poses a threat to the foundation of the constitutional order and security of the Russian Federation."

Russian authorities also designated Proekt's chief editor Roman Badanin and several of his journalists "foreign agents."

The government already has outlawed more than 30 groups under a 2015 law that made membership in "undesirable" organizations a criminal offense.

Another law obliges non-governmental organizations and some individuals who receive foreign funding and engage in activities loosely described as political to register as "foreign agents." The designation comes with additional government scrutiny and has a strong pejorative connotation that could discredit those that receive it.

Last month, police searched the apartments of Proekt's chief editor Roman Badanin and several of its journalists just as the outlet was preparing to release an investigation into Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev and his alleged wealth. Proekt published it immediately after the raids.

Authorities said the searches were conducted under a defamation case over a 2017 documentary about a St. Petersburg businessman with alleged ties to organized crime.

In recent months, Russian authorities have increased pressure on independent news media, designating two popular independent outlets, Meduza and VTimes, as "foreign agents." VTimes has shut down after that, while Meduza has launched a crowd-funding campaign.

Russia also has used the law on "foreign agents" to levy heavy fines on U.S.-funded Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty for failing to identify its material as produced by "foreign agents." The broadcaster has asked the European Court of Human Rights to intervene.

Russian authorities have raised the heat on the opposition and independent media ahead of September's parliamentary election, widely seen as an important part of Putins efforts to cement his rule ahead of the 2024 presidential election. The 68-year-old Russian president, who has been in power for more than two decades, pushed through constitutional changes last year that would potentially allow him to hold onto power until 2036.

Last month, a Moscow court outlawed organizations founded by imprisoned Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny by labeling them extremist. The ruling barred people associated with Navalnys Foundation for Fighting Corruption and his sprawling regional network from seeking public office. Many of Navalnys allies had hoped to run for parliamentary seats in the Sept. 19 election.
Fair and continued warm tonight and Tuesday, is his forecast. Some possible relief appears for Wednesday.

The storm area that is bringing relief to the Northwest was today passing north of this area. It was moving toward Lake Superior, where rain fell this afternoon.

All-lime temperature records were smashed here Sunday when a reading of 108 degrees was reached at 3:30 p.m., according to J.R. Johns, local weather forecaster. The Saturday high was 107, equaling the highest previous mark attained In history. The former highest reading was on May 31, 1934.

The number of persons being overcome by heat was increasing today. The following cases had been reported up to noon today in Winona:

Sugar Loaf Woman Collapses

Mrs. Marie West, Sugar Loaf, collapsed on Mankato Avenue while walking home from Winona Saturday evening. She was taken to the hospital in the Kelly ambulance at 9:20 for treatment but returned to her home later that night. Her condition was reported today by the attending physician as not serious.

Henry Sensted, 572 1/2 East Wabasha Street, an employee of the J.R. Watkins company, was taken to the hospital this morning after being overcome by heat in the plant. His condition is not considered serious.
Fr. Altman spoke truth with clarity and charity. Let's review the fruits of his ministry which Bishop Callahan did not publicly share:

1) His parish added 50 new families during COVID while other parishes lost parishioners. His small parish increase was remarkable!

2) He increased fundraising at his parish and restored aspects of the church. Doubled the bishop's appeal collection at the parish.

3) While others across the nation closed their churches and ceased giving sacraments, Fr. Altman provided Holy Communion on the tongue some 70,000 times, caring for the souls of countless people who came. He provided Jesus Christ when so many felt abandoned during COVID when suicides, alcoholism, drug use & depression skyrocketed.

4) Fr. Altman's homilies and videos inspired Catholics across the nation and worldwide during shutdowns. Many people came back to the faith and some even became Catholic as a result of his preaching. Many Protestants commended him for speaking up for Life and upholding God, marriage, and country. Ineffective? Hardly!

5) Fr. Altman's parishioners could drop by anytime to see him. Try to see your parish priest without an appointment. In business, his customer service would be called extraordinary!
Hes good to work with, Ganser said, adding that Holloway makes a point of greeting everyone in the morning when he runs into them for the first time.

Human Resources manager Nicole Tingley said Flambeau, as a family-focused company, offers growth and advancement opportunities for all of its employees, just as Holloway experienced, in areas including engineering, production, technologies and maintenance.

What he does is exceptionally specialized and not something that you can learn in school, so Larry has been a huge asset to the organization with all of his knowledge and something that we are really grateful for, Tingley said.

Holloway has trained so many people at Flambeau he couldnt count them all.

He said he enjoys the work and his coworkers, who are part of the reason hes stayed with the same company for so long. Hes also learned a lot and is still learning, with no plans to retire any time soon, half a century later.

It gives me a reason to get up in the morning and keep active. Thats the big thing, is keeping active, he said.

Follow Susan Endres on Twitter @EndresSusan or call her at 745-3506.

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Michael Cisneros appeared in court via Zoom Wednesday afternoon to waive the time limits to hold his preliminary hearing for an attempted homicide charge. His attorney, also appearing via Zoom, requested all future hearings be in person.

Cisneros had his initial appearance July 6 and in Wisconsin defendants in custody have the right to a trial within ten days of that appearance. The preliminary hearing was rescheduled for Aug. 13 in front of Judge W. Andrew Voigt.

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Cisneros, 45, Wisconsin Dells, was charged with first-degree attempted homicide, a class A felony and strangulation and suffocation, a class H felony. Both charges come with modifiers of domestic abuse and domestic abuse repeater.

A statement from the Columbia County Sherriff called the incident a very serious and significant domestic incident.

The department was called to a local hospital for a physical domestic incident including strangulation on July 1 just before midnight.
A man was charged with reckless endangerment after being accused of threatening a cab company employee with a knife.

Marco Figueroa, 33, was charged with felony second-degree recklessly endangering safety in Columbia County Circuit Court on July 7. Judge W. Andrew Voigt set $2,000 cash bond. He cannot have contact with the victim or the cab company. He is still in custody as of Thursday afternoon, according to online records.

According to the criminal complaint, Portage law enforcement were called to Portage Cab Company around 11:55 p.m., July 6, for a report of a man menacing an employee with a knife. When police arrived, the man had run from the scene.

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Police later caught up with the man and identified him as Marco Figueroa. The complaint says police had contact with Figueroa earlier in the day when he was found illegally riding a freight train. An officer ordered Figueroa to drop the knife, and he did. Officers then handcuffed Figueroa, who displayed signs of intoxication.
Wisconsin Dells resorts and attractions report a huge upswing in travel this year after the COVID-19 pandemic severely restricted tourism in 2020.

Based on the first four months of 2021, Wisconsin Dells Visitor and Convention Bureau CEO/President Romy Synder said the areas room tax collection numbers look encouraging. She said Wisconsin Dells area may meet or even surpass 2019 room tax collections. Room tax is collected on all hotel/motel rentals.

Snyder said room tax collections were up 17.5%, or about $500,000, for the first four months of 2021 between both Lake Delton and Wisconsin Dells municipalities compared to 2019. The summer months of June, July and August are normally the busiest months for tourism accounting for 40% of the economic impact in the area, she said.

If those first four months are any indication of what we are going to see in June, July and August I think were are all going to be in a pretty good position, Snyder said. Snyder said the visitor and convention bureau has seen really strong demand for leisure travel since early this year. This years spring break saw higher demand and more travelers than in previous years, she said.
C19 People's Coalition statement on recent civil unrest

The Coalition responds to the recent civil unrest and the role of government in addressing the underlying issues of economic injustice

The C19 Peoples Coalition mourns all those who have been hurt or killed and whose livelihoods have been affected during this time of unrest. We are a traumatised society and we need to heal. But healing must go hand in hand with economic justice.

So many of our people in South Africa are hungry and landless, and are faced with the indignity of ongoing race and class-based segregation. Since 1994, our government has done little to address this dispossession and exploitation. And during the pandemic, it has enacted massive budget cuts to healthcare, education, water, social grants and municipal services. We warned the Treasury and Parliament that these budget cuts are dehumanising and break the social compact required to rebuild our society, yet the government has unconstitutionally failed to extend even basic social protection during the latest lockdown.

We must hold accountable the politicians including former President Jacob Zuma and a particular cohort of his supporters who allegedly cynically seek to appropriate peoples hunger and desperation for their own short-term gain. However the sitting government cannot deny its own role in creating the conditions for social conflict. We condemn the political targeting of key infrastructure for transporting food, fuel and medicine. This will make the lives of our impoverished people even more difficult. There is opportunistic criminality and legitimate desperation  these truths can be held at the same time.

South Africa wants more. We deserve more. We deserve a government who treats all of us as human beings, with dignity and respect and protects the lives and livelihoods of our people. A militarised solution is never ideal and, as a principle, we are against military deployment. Yet we recognise the unprecedented circumstances of this moment, the harrowing vigilante extremism that must be stopped and spiraling fears of those at danger that require an answer. Where soldiers are deployed for peacekeeping and deescalation, repression of the vulnerable, gender violence and escalation often follow. If the government cannot dare to dream alternatives, and if this is to go ahead, we must hold each and every soldier and police officer to account so as not to repeat the atrocities committed in the Level 5 deployment in 2020 where the SANDF acted as yet another criminal gang. We call on cadres in civil society and grassroots organisations and communities to help mobilise being independent watchdogs in this regard.

The C-19 Peoples Coalition calls for a credible break, based on new pathways that are crafted through democratic deliberation. We call for government to:

Ensure that where the deployment of the military is unavoidable, it is used as a short term tactical intervention aimed at singularly ending the syndicated criminal violence bent on creating conditions of upheaval. Focus protection on those who are most vulnerable to political violence, including informal traders and small businesses. Stop the states tacit and explicit support for xenophobic violence. Protect all who live in South Africa and emphasise that everyone is a valued member of our society whose human rights must be protected. Reinstate the Covid SRD grant for the unemployed and caregivers alike, at an increased amount of R585, ensure that SASSA offices are opened and protected and move rapidly to an expanded Basic Income Guarantee of at minimum R1268. Roll back the austerity cuts to social services, including healthcare, education and water, so that our people have access to adequate healthcare, decent education, sufficient school nutrition and clean drinking water. Ensure that vaccine and chronic medication rollout can continue unhindered, hospital admissions are managed as best as possible in this third wave of the pandemic, and further COVID-19 fatalities are minimised as a result of the unrest. Adopt an integrated civil society and community response to establish a holistic roadmap to de-escalate the unrest and provide urgent relief for those affected. An urgent public assembly with the President and Ministers of accountable departments, including Treasury, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and Social Development to ensure each of the above is adequately addressed through partnership with civil society.

In the face of our highly complex and rapidly changing context, no one person can identify the best response. The securitisation of property alone while rolling back on social relief will have devastating effects. As civil society we have been ignored and excluded at the hands of a kleptocratic political elite for too long. We need the deliberative wisdom of all our people to find our way forward. We deserve a government who engages in mass deliberative democracy, and not just consultation with representatives.

For more information, please contact:

Abeedah Adams on 072 028 3551

Tauriq Jenkins on 064 734 2569

Motsi Khokhoma on 073 490 7623

Or send any media inquiries to covid19peoplesaction@gmail.com
UTICA, N.Y.  Mohawk Valley Health System celebrated nine centenarians at its Rehabilitation and Nursing Center Wednesday, who turned at least 100 years old over the past year.

After spending much of the pandemic in quarantine with limited visitation, this was a chance for the residents to get together and have a celebration with some family members included.

"It's amazing to get everybody back again. This is the first thing we've done since the pandemic and it's so nice to see all the families and the residents are just so happy, it's a great time," said Amy DeAngelo, director of therapeutic recreation.

Here are the women who were celebrated at the event:
UTICA, N.Y. -- Almost 60 people living in the Olbiston Apartment Complex were given less than a 24 hour notice that they need to vacate the building.

"Im just trying to be positive about this situation, but this is not right. This is not right. I should have been given more than adequate notice," said resident Isaac Foster.

City of Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri explained that codes violations make the building unsafe for the residents.

"We have made a determination through the Fire Department that this building should be shut down. Mandating it will be a court order," said Palmieri.

The City of Utica already has a case pending in Supreme Court trying to get the owner of the building to fix the roof and all codes violations. This latest determination comes after a recent codes inspection found damage extending from the roof all the way down to the first floor.

The building has also been plagued with illegal activity, but residents like Isaac say thats changed.

"Good people live in this building. Good drug-free people live in this building. People that are struggling financially, but are getting by, making due, even in this pandemic time, with not much support, is living in this building, and youre telling them they have to be thrown in the street," he said.

The city isnt technically evicting the residents, however theyre not being allowed back inside the building. Utica Fire Marshall Gerald Foster spoke to residents trying to get back in.

"Well not for good. Until the owner fixes the violations, and the roof is part of it. Ok, so you cant go back in," he said.

Several agencies are working to find suitable living accommodations while a permanent solution gets worked out. Residents have been asked to fill out a county application before theyre able to receive emergency housing and food assistance, but not all these residents are willing leave.

"and you still want to live here? Yeah. That roof could collapse at any time. Are you going to put your family in jeopardy?"

The ones that are complying arent happy about the way this is being handled. Olbiston Resident Steve Kehr has lived here for 5 years.

"I want to yell at somebody, but theres nobody really to yell at," he said. "The only ones we could yell at is the actual people who are involved in the building and not getting anything done."

Others like Julia Dipietro and her dog 'Jack' are more concerned about where theyre going live now.

"I just flipped out. I was like oh my God. This cant be happening," said Dipietro. "Ive been here for 11 years, and theres no other place here in Utica."

A representative who works in social services said there is a shortage of low income housing, and they dont know where these people will end up. Dipietro is more concerned about her dog.

"Theyre saying that theyre going to stick me in a hotel, but I cant be in a hotel without my animals. All my animals got to come with me," she said. "Ill go crazy. Ill go berserk."

There were 36 apartments in total, and within those apartments were around 20 cats, 6 dogs, and other animals. Finding adequate housing that accepts animals will be a challenge. Central New York SPCA Animal Cruelty Investigator Chief William Pulaski knows that giving up some of these animals may be inevitable.

"Wed either have to try to find a boarding facility that they could go to, or they would have to sign them over," he said.

"Were also checking with a lot of the shelters in the area right now to see if they could bring animals in to board temporarily."

NEWSChannel 2 has reached out to the owner of the building for comment, but have not received a response.
LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) -- Lafayette Urban Ministry is celebrating a grand opening Thursday, Jul 15. The non-profit has just moved its Lafayette protein pantry to St. John's Episcopal Church located on 6th Street between Ferry and North Street.

The celebration starts at 9:30 at the St. John's Episcopal Church. LUM leaders will be offering free donuts, coffee, and bottled water. Guest will enter through the red door located under the green awning.

This pantry will be giving residents access to fresh protein-rich foods. That includes meats, fish, peanut butter, and beans. This pantry will also offer paper and hygiene products all free for those in need. It will be open every Thursday morning from 10 a.m. to noon.

LUM Director, Wes Tillett said the previous pantry used to be housed on Fourth Street.

"During the summer months, we have an all-day program for children so that makes it difficult to run our protein food pantry on Thursday mornings, so we partnered with St. John's Episcopal Church and they were kind enough to let us use some of their space," said Tillett.

He is excited that this new location will allow the ministry to continue being a resource for families in need.

"Protein is one of those things that is super healthy for the body and for the brain," said Tillett. "It also tends to be a little more expensive, so if we can supplement that, that tends to help people out in a variety of ways."

If you'd like to support this pantry you can do so by clicking here.
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI)  Record enrollment has Purdue getting innovative when it comes to student housing.

"It's the sheer number," said Assistant Vice Provost for Student Life Barb Frazee. "We just weren't anticipating that there would be so many students."

Purdue Vice Provost for Student Life Beth McCuskey said getting 15,000 students into housing can be a challenge.

"All hands were on deck figuring this out," said McCuskey.

Purdue will start the 2021 fall semester with its largest incoming freshman class in history, and the incoming class has almost 1,200 more students than last year.

So, McCuskey said the university had to get creative.

"Some of these might be small double rooms that we have used for singles for a while," she said. "So, we did go back to using those as a double. Some might be, like in this case, where it's used for studying or for meetings that we've been able to accomodate students in a bedroom setting."

The university was able to add 2,000 permanent beds.

One-thousand are throughout campus residence halls, and another 1,000 are in off-campus apartments.

McCuskey said everything was done with student safety in mind.

"Every space that we have has been vetted and toured by our fire protection people, our safety office to make sure that they meet all of the needs from a safety perspective," McCuskey explained.

However, there are about 1,000 students on a housing wait list. So, some students may have temporary housing.

"As we continue to progress through, we will be talking to students," McCuskey said. "We will be reaching out and confirming their attendance. Hopefully, it they're not planning to attend, we'll find that out early enough to get people assigned on the spot so that they won't have to have a temporary assignment."

Frazee said it's been a challenge, but it shows how dedicated the university is to its students.

"We could have very easily sent a letter and said, 'We're full,' or we could have said, 'Please take a gap year,'" she explained. Instead, we really, really want every student to know that we want them here, and we're working very hard to make sure that they have a true Boilermaker experience."

The university held town halls for parents to let them know about the housing changes.

McCuskey said they are openly communicating with parents and students to address any concerns.
TIPPECANOE COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI)-Indiana Secretary of State Holli Sullivan stopped by Tippecanoe County today. Her visit was part of her 92 county tour of Indiana. While she was in Lafayette she met Tippecanoe County Clerk Julie Roush. Secretary Sullivan helped Tippecanoe County secure new voting equipment. Along with helping out Tippecanoe County she has also started a program to confirm that voters' addresses are up to date by sending out postcards to people's homes.

"When voters get that postcard in their mailbox they should check the information that it is your voter registration information," said Secretary Sullivan. "Make sure your name is correct especially if there is a suffix also check your address."

If the card is sent back to the secretary of state's office with an incorrect address, it will look for a different forwarding address. This is why it's important for you to update your voter registration with the most current information; otherwise, you could be asked questions the next time you go to vote. You can make those changes by clicking here.

"They are then put into a classification as an active voter but we have them in a segment of our list where we ask for voter-verified information the next time they show up at their polling place," said Secretary Sullivan.

Secretary Sullivan also helped Tippecanoe County obtain grant money to upgrade its voting equipment which will now give voters a paper ballot back up at the polls.

"The biggest difference is that it has a Vpad which means a voter-verifiable paper trail so that people have a paper proof of what they voted for," said Tippecanoe County Clerk Julie Roush

As for the future of election laws, secretary Sullivan supports states continuing to control how they are handled.

"We enjoyed a very successful election in 2020 with the highest voter turnout in the state of Indiana since 1992," said Secretary Sullivan. "We had a very safe and secure election and as Hoosiers left the polls in their polling locations across this great state, they had confidence that their vote counted and that it was counted quickly we did a great job here in Indiana."

Secretary Sullivan says she noticed some Hoosiers have concerns over absentee voting ballot requests. She says there was confusion in 2020 when some people received an absentee ballot request form when they didn't ask for one. She hopes to address that concern to keep Hoosiers confident in the election system strong.
US is 'losing time' in vaccination race as Delta variant becomes more pervasive, expert says
Ban on wide range of knives, weapons, and firearms now in force

A ban on a wide range of weapons including cyclone knives, spiral knives and rapid-fire rifles, is now in force.

From July 14 a new legal definition of flick knives, banned since 1959, also takes effect, resulting in more of these bladed weapons being outlawed.

All weapons banned in public by the Criminal Justice Act 1988, including zombie knives, shuriken or death stars and knuckledusters, will now also be banned in private, meaning people can no longer keep them at home.

Anyone unlawfully possessing a firearm covered by the ban will face up to 10 years in prison and those possessing one of the other weapons can be sentenced to up to six months imprisonment or a fine or both.

Police and relevant partners will be working to educate the public and the business community regarding the changes in legislation.

The introduction of the new measures will provide police with further means to help deter young people from becoming involved in knife possession and knife crime.

North Wales Police Assistant Chief Constable Sacha Hatchett said: The harm caused to families and communities through the tragic loss of life relating to knife crime is devastating and that is why focusing on this issue remains a top priority for policing.

We welcome the changes to legislation being introduced by the Offensive Weapons Act.

These measures will help officers to seize more dangerous weapons, deal with that intent on using them to cause harm and suffering, and crucially, make it more difficult for young people to get hold of knives and other dangerous items in the first place.

Knife crime is not something that can be solved by policing alone.

We are working closely with partners and with groups, such schools and businesses to educate young people and explain why carrying a knife is never the right choice.

This early intervention plays a vitally important role in stopping young people from turning to a life of crime.

The UK government is also reminding members of the public about forthcoming changes to the law around antique firearms.

The Antique Firearms Regulations 2021, introduced in March this year, provides for the first time a legal definition of antique firearm to prevent criminals exploiting a lack of clarity in law to gain possession of such a weapon for use in crime.

Owners of firearms that have ceased to be antiques as a result of the 2021 Regulations have until 22 September this year to apply to the police for a firearms certificate, which allows them to own these weapons legally. Alternatively, they can surrender, sell or otherwise dispose of the firearm before 22 September.

North Wales Police is urging people to contact them should they know of anybody involved with illegal weapons to contact them via the website or by calling 101.

Alternatively contact can also be made via Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Councillors to probe problems in accessing GPs in Wrexham

Concerns over issues in accessing GP services and a shortage of doctors in Wrexham are set to be debated next week.

During the pandemic health services, as with many other public facing services, started to offer alternative appointment services in a bid to reduce the spread of coronavirus.

This included the introduction of virtual consultations and phone appointments, with more than 10,000 video calls being carried out by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board during the pandemic.

However such issues in accessing GP services in Wrexham have been long-documented, with a shortage of doctors debated by members of the councils safeguarding, communities and wellbeing scrutiny committee in May 2019.

Last month members of the committee agreed to discuss a Scrutiny Topic Selection form to consider the problems in accessing GPs in Wrexham, particularly the areas covered by the Hillcrest, Forge Road and Borras GP Surgeries which have been taken over by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board.

In 2019 it was announced that the three surgeries would be handed over to a community interest company (CIC).

At the time it was explained that although CIC is a non for profit organisation, it has ability to access funding which otherwise would not be available to normal GMS (General Medical Services) practices.

The three surgeries had previously been under the management of Betsi Cadwaladr since 2017 either due to GPs retiring from or terminating their GMS contracts with the health board.

But as of last month the three surgeries have been under the management of the health board.

As part of the topic request, which was submitted by councillor I David Bithell, there were calls for more information on the over-reliance of locum doctors across the county borough, which results in a lack of stability and consistency when trying to make appointments to see a GP.

The Topic Selection Form also requested discussion around the development of a model of consultation with this committee for any future changes or problems with GP surgeries across the County Borough as they arise.

The committee agreed to:-

Debate the problems with GP surgeries in the County Borough with representatives of the GP surgeries, BCUHB and the local Community Health Council.

Review the management arrangements for the three GP Practices referred to above with representatives of the BCUHB.

Consider the problems with GP recruitment and inform any future plans to address this.

It is hoped that the debate will improve access to GPs in Wrexham, improve stability in the management of GP Practices in these areas with less reliance on locum GPs and the development of a model agreement on consultation with this scrutiny committee for future changes or problems with GP Surgeries in the County Borough as they arise.

The report will be debated by members of the councils safeguarding, communities and wellbeing scrutiny committee on Monday 19 July.
Second doses brought forward from 8 to 6 weeks  pop up and walk in clinics announced locally

The local health board have announced effective from today they are bringing forward the second dose interval for both the Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccine from eight to six weeks.

The details came as Gill Harris, Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery at Betsi Cadwaladr University, gave a wide ranging update, This week we have reached the significant milestone of fully vaccinating 400,000 eligible adults in North Wales. This means that almost seven in ten eligible adults have at least 90 per cent protection against hospitalisation, should they contract COVID-19.

New analysis from Public Health England shows that the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is 96 per cent effective against hospitalisation after two doses, while the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine is 92 per cent effective against hospitalisation after both doses.

Our minimum target is to vaccinate 75 per cent of people in each eligible age group with both doses, in order to achieve a level of community protection that will help us eventually return to normal life.

First dose take up is at least 80 per cent in each age group above the age of forty, but take up among people aged 30-39 is currently 70 per cent. We need approximately 6,000 more people in this age group to come forward to get to 75 per cent.

Seventy eight per cent of 18-29 year olds have now had a first dose, and although there is more work to do in some communities, take up from younger people in many counties is amongst the highest in the UK.

Second doses brought forward

Effective from today the health board are bringing forward the second dose interval for both the Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccine from eight to six weeks.

If six weeks have passed since you had your first dose, from today onwards, you can book your second dose using the online booking service.

The health board explain the new six-week interval is consistent with expert guidance from the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency, It will enable us to be more efficient in our use of vaccine supply and ensure that more people receive the full of protection of both doses sooner. This is particularly important, given the huge increase in cases of the Delta variant over recent weeks.

Long-COVID

The health board have also highlighted long covid, When deciding whether or not to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, its important that people consider their chances of developing long-COVID, as well as their risk of becoming seriously ill in the first few weeks following infection.

Any case of COVID-19, whether its asymptomatic, mild, severe, or hospitalised, incurs up to a 20 per cent risk of developing long-COVID, which can last for at least 12 weeks. Symptoms can include debilitating fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pains, sleeping difficulties and problems with memory and concentration.

The best way to protect yourself against potential serious illness and the debilitating longer-term side effects of long-COVID is to have both doses of the vaccine.

Walk in and pop up clinics

As readers will know, getting your first or second dose is now easier than ever via the online booking system. If you cannot access the internet to book online, you can phone the COVID-19 Vaccination Contact Centre on 03000 840004. The lines can be very busy, so please be patient.

New vaccination clinics are also accepting walk ins without an appointment, where supply allows:

Catrin Finch Centre (Wrexham LL11 2HS) 9am  6pm Tuesday  Sunday during July (except 20/07/2021)

Deeside Mass Vaccination Centre (CH5 1SA) 9am  6pm Tuesday  Sunday during July (except 20/07/2021)

Bangor Cathedral (LL57 1LH) 8.30am  7pm every day apart from Wednesday and Sunday

Venue Cymru (Llandudno LL30 1BB) 08:30  7:15pm Sunday  Friday

OpTic Centre (St Asaph Business Park LL17 0JD) 09:30  5:15pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday

The health board will also be holding more mobile pop up vaccination clinics in areas of high footfall over the coming weeks  with one in Wrexham

Over the next two weeks, the mobile clinic will be visiting the following locations in Wrexham and Flintshire, which host a number of large employers:

Wrexham Industrial Estate  Saturday 24th July (10:00  4pm)

Charmleys Lane Car Park, Shotton  Saturday 17th July (09:30  4pm)

Mold Business Park  Tuesday 20th July (12:00  5pm)

Deeside Industrial Estate  Friday 23rd July (1pm  6pm)

Missed appointments

The health board ask people to make every effort to attend appointments booked in advance, Each missed appointment places significant additional pressure on our vaccination staff, and makes it more difficult for others to book at a time and date that is convenient for them.

We are also once again appealing to employers across the region to please be sympathetic to requests for their staff to take time off to attend vaccination appointments.

You can find the online booking system here.
Welsh Government accused of hiding behind UK only public inquiry  as Minister promises it will look separately at what happened in Wales

An attempt to force a Wales-specific inquiry into the handling of the coronavirus pandemic failed yesterday after a vote in the Senedd.

Welsh Labour effectively voted down the motion, with the Health Minister offering assurances that a UK wide public inquiry will commence in spring of next year and will look separately at what happened in Wales as part of the process.

To propose that the Senedd:

Calls for an independent public inquiry into the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic in Wales.

The motion was presented by Shadow Minister for Health Russell George MS, who said:  Its been a year since the Welsh Conservatives first called for an independent public inquiry into the COVID-19 pandemic in Wales, and for over a year, the Welsh Government have resisted that request, but that request has not only come from us as Welsh Conservatives, its come from others across this Senedd and this request has also come from health professionals and health bodies throughout Wales as well.

From April 2020, the First Minister has made it clear that different decisions would be made if it was in the interests of Wales and this is a mantra that the First Ministers made several times; he keeps repeating this statement, yet he and the Government here are not willing for there to be a Wales-wide specific inquiry; they are simply happy that theres a footnote or some chapters in a UK-wide inquiry, which is unlikely to go into any kind of detail into the Welsh Governments role in any kind of depth.

The Welsh Government must answer some serious questions on hospital-acquired COVID-19 infections during the pandemic and show that lessons have indeed been learnt. Weve heard lessons have been learnt, but a public inquiry can demonstrate that. We know that 1,806 people, thats roughly one in four people, who died from COVID-19 probably or definitely caught COVID-19 from hospital wards. Wales has the highest death toll of the whole of the UK nations with a rate of 249.5 deaths per 100,000 people. The Welsh Government throughout reports of ward-to-ward transmissions has said lessons are going to be learned, but I look at this, and I look at what the health Minister said last week, that these deaths would be investigated, well, we havent had any detail yet. Who is going to carry out the investigations? How will the investigations be conducted?

A public inquiry will get to the bottom and give families the answers that they might want, and I would expect them to want.

Plaid Cymrus Sian Gwenllian MS said, For a year now, Plaid Cymru has also been calling for a public inquiry that is specific to Wales. That would give a unique opportunity to assess and learn lessons from the way in which the Government has handled the pandemic, but, rather than that, the Government has decided to have one Welsh chapter in a UK-wide inquiry.

Nearly 6,000 people have died in the wake of COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic. There are immeasurable levels of illness, not to mention the chronic disability associated with long COVID. As well as that, six months of education days were lost, and there have been far-reaching economic consequences and increasing strain on our health services. That all tells us that we need an inquiry, and that we need a Wales-specific inquiry, and we need that because, very simply, this crisis has happened in an area that is devolved.

Weve been able to chart our own course during the pandemic because health is a devolved area, and so it makes perfect sense that we scrutinise in detail the unique actions that have been taken in Wales, because this is an area devolved to us, and we have the opportunity to have created our own response. Time and time again the First Minister has emphasised that we have a Welsh response to the pandemic here, and so the microscope should be on our response here in Wales. Its not the same thing as the response in other parts of the UK.

North Wales MS Mark Isherwood addressed the chamber, The Welsh Governments handling of the pandemic has failed many north Wales businesses, and I say this not as a party political soundbite but because I have been inundated by desperate businesses telling me this. The economic damage wrought by the pandemic has caused the worst recession in the UK for 300 years. In response, the UK Government have provided over 400 billion of support to protect jobs and businesses, with the Welsh Government receiving its full share.

Each time the Welsh Government has announced financial support to help businesses survive the pandemic, it has excluded small bed-and-breakfast businesses. On each occasion, Ive been contacted by despairing small B&B businesses unable to understand why this vital part of local tourism economies has been denied support. On each occasion, Ive raised this with the Welsh Government to zero effect.

Since the May election, Ive continued to receive e-mails from many other struggling north Wales businesses condemning the Welsh Governments lack of financial support throughout the pandemic for them, stating, for example, that the Welsh Government had stabbed them in the back and that the Welsh Government grant announcement was a slap in the face.

The Minister for Health and Social Services, Eluned Morgan responded to the calls explaining why the Welsh Labour Government were supporting a UK inquiry, The Government entirely agrees that its important that there should be an impartial and appropriate inquiry held into the way in which we have dealt with the pandemic. We do need to gather and sift evidence in a systematic way, listening carefully to the stories of those who saw their lives overturned in such a dramatic and cruel way during this difficult period. We need to analyse what was done well and those things that werent done as well, and I know that many have listed some of those today. And we need to recommend to Governments, and to society more generally, what we can learn from our experiences of the pandemic, so that we can be ready to face similar challenges in the future. However, we will be voting against this motion.

The First Minister has already informed the Senedd that he agrees with the UK Prime Minister that a public inquiry that he said that he would commence in spring of next year should deal with the UK as a whole. As part of that, it will look separately at what happened in Wales. We believeand this is the belief of the UK Prime Minister too, it appearsthat this is the best possible arrangement for Wales.

Holding a separate Welsh inquiry, as is suggested, would either lead to duplication of much of the work done by a UK-wide inquiry, or an England-only inquiry, or it would mean that important aspects of the pandemic that should be taken into account wouldnt be part of a Welsh inquiry. The agreement, therefore, between the First Minister and UK Prime Minister to hold a UK-wide inquiry ensures that particular attention must be paid to Wales as part of this inquiry.

Of course, there are many decisions yet to be taken about the inquiry. We will need to define its purpose very carefully in order to ensure that it considers the right issues. We will need to decide on the remit of the work.

I think that the breadth of that inquiry is something that is still there to be influenced.

Vale of Clwyd MS Gareth Davies wrapped up the debate, While we started out with a co-ordinated approach, it wasnt long before Welsh Ministers decided to go their own way. The First Minister derided the UK Governments proposals on face masks, and he told the Welsh public in early 2020 that there was no need to conduct widescale testing in our care homes. The UK Government rolled out asymptomatic testing in care homes, yet the First Minister said there was no value in that approach. I believe it is as a result of this decision and the systematic failure of the Welsh Government to roll out wider community testing that, sadly, we have nearly 2,000 care home residents who died from COVID.

They took decisions that differed from other home nations, decisions that undoubtedly led to us having the highest death rate of any home nation. They cant now hide behind a UK-wide approach by calling for a UK-only public inquiry. The people of Wales who lost loved ones to the COVID virus deserve answers, they deserve to know whether the actions of the Welsh Government Ministers contributed to the deaths of their family members, friends and colleagues. We can only provide those answers with an independent public inquiry, an inquiry for Wales, held here in Wales.

The motion failed 27 votes for, 29 votes against.
Demonstrators march on in Paulista Avenue to demand that Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro resign, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Saturday, July 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Nelson Antoine)

Over the past month, Brazil has seen three days of nationwide demonstrations that have brought hundreds of thousands of people onto the streets against President Jair Bolsonaros administration and its criminal response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The scale of the demonstrations and the persistence of the protesters express the growing discontent among broad layers of the Brazilian population with the existing social order and point to the urgency of the fight for genuine socialist politics in Brazil.

Alongside similar demonstrations in Paraguay and Colombia in recent months, the protests in Brazil represent the initial development of mass opposition in the streets against the homicidal policies adopted by the ruling classes across the globe in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

They are part of a global wave of working class radicalization, which has seen strikes in Europe and North America that have confronted previously accepted conditions of exploitation and challenged the domination of corporatist unions.

These events are a vindication of the Marxist prognosis of the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI), which has analyzed the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic as a trigger event that is provoking a revolutionary response by the working class internationally.

The crimes of Bolsonaro and his accomplices

In Brazil, in addition to the more than half a million lives unnecessarily lost to the coronavirus, the capitalist response to the pandemic has worsened the deplorable conditions of life of the working masses, the already grotesque levels of social inequality and the brutality of bourgeois rule in the country.

The homicidal policy of the Brazilian bourgeoisie found in the figure of fascistic President Bolsonaro is its most radical and virulent expression. Bolsonaro insisted that the pandemic should be faced by the ruling class as a war, demanding the suspension of the social and democratic rights of the working class.

Consistently following the principle that no effort to save lives should be allowed to conflict with profit interests, Bolsonaro repeatedly attacked policies advanced by scientists and public health experts. He has discouraged the wearing of masks and social distancing, promoted drugswithout any scientific basisas miracle cures for the disease, encouraged the disobedience of lockdown decrees and sabotaged the vaccination campaign in the country.

During the pandemic, Bolsonaro has deepened his systematic efforts to install a military dictatorship in Brazil. He brought military officers into every department of his government, entrusted an active duty general with the coordination of his criminal response to the coronavirus and fought to draw the Armed Forces into his governments war on lockdowns policy.

While Bolsonaro has been the most visible protagonist of the attacks against the Brazilian population over the past year, the entire ruling class and its political superstructure are implicated in these barbaric crimes.

The representatives of the different industrial and commercial associations of the Brazilian bourgeoisie even marched alongside the fascistic president to Brazils Supreme Court to proclaim Enough! and demand the lifting of the meager measures to promote social distancing that were advanced when Brazil had not yet reached 10,000 COVID-19 deaths.

This ruthless order was slavishly obeyed (without even the need for a court order) by all the parties of the bourgeois establishment, from the governors of the Workers Party (PT) to those of the right-wing Brazilian Social Democracy Party (PSDB). All of them promoted the general reopening of the economy and schools, indifferent to the devastating consequences.

The bourgeois state channels for social opposition

Fearing that the growth of social opposition will develop into an open struggle of the working class against the capitalist system, Bolsonaros rivals within the ruling class are trying to dissipate popular anger by channeling it behind the bourgeois state.

The political forces that called for the recent demonstrationsthe PT, its political satellites, and the unions and social movements they controlare actively working to suppress any class content in the political opposition to the Bolsonaro administration.

Their efforts are aimed at creating narrow political limits for the protests, framing them as a form of pressure on the bourgeoisie and its state. According to this political perspective, the action of the masses should serve to legitimatize and lend a democratic or even progressive veneer to the reactionary political maneuvers and deals being worked out by capitalist interests behind the backs of the people.

The demonstrations were politically subordinated to the forging of a reactionary alliance between the PT and its allies and the most right-wing forces of the Brazilian political establishment. And their agenda was tied to the work of the COVID Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry (CPI) and the schedule for congressional votes on calls for the impeachment of Bolsonaro.

The genuine anger of those who joined the protests over the brutal sacrifice of lives to the coronavirus, the attacks against democracy and the mass impoverishment of the Brazilian population under the Bolsonaro government is thus being driven into a political swamp.

The CPI, to which the demonstrations are being subordinated, is turning into a cover-up of the crimes committed by the Brazilian state in the furtherance of the capitalist herd immunity policy. The investigation is being focused on the governments corruption in the purchase of vaccines, which treats Bolsonaros denialism regarding the pandemic (that is, his refusal to take any action that would interfere with the capitalist economy) as mere window-dressing for his pursuit of private financial interests.

The calls for the impeachment by Bolsonaros opposition within the state are based on a reactionary defense of the stability of bourgeois rule in Brazil against the threats posed by Bolsonaros provocations.

The overthrow of Bolsonaro based upon these bourgeois methods and political perspective has no progressive content. None of the fundamental problems faced by the working class under the current government would be solved.

Such an outcome, on the contrary, would pave the way for the continuation of the policy of criminal neglect of the COVID-19 pandemic, the deepening of social inequality under capitalism and the ruling classs turn to authoritarian forms of government.

The pseudo-left apologists for bourgeois politics

The attempt to legitimize such a reactionary political outcome requires a division of labor between the political forces committed to the defense of capitalism, in which the pseudo-left organizations, reflecting the interests of privileged layers of the middle class, play a central role.

Political parties and groups originating in Stalinism, Pabloism and its Latin American Morenoite variant, as well as in academic identity politics, are all working to provide a left cover for the demoralized bourgeois opposition to Bolsonaro.

The PSOL, which was founded as a purported left-wing alternative to the dirty bourgeois deals that underpinned the PT governments, has become the leading apologist for an open alliance with the right and the far right, painting these forces as progressive sections of the national bourgeoisie.

This grotesque political alliance took shape in the PSOLs joint filing of a super impeachment petition of Bolsonaro together with far-right figures who played dominant roles in the election of the fascistic president in the first place, and then broke with his administration for opportunistic reasons.

In the wake of the signing of this document, PSOL leaders enthusiastically promoted the participation of the right-wing parties in the demonstrations against Bolsonaro. PSOL president Juliano Medeiros attacked any sectarian voices that will say that it is absurd to be on the same platform as the Tucanos [a nickname for the right-wing PSDB], insisting that any party that wants the impeachment is welcome.

The Morenoite faction of the PSOL, Resistencia, declared that it was necessary to invite all sections that claim to be in opposition to the government, even segments of the right, to join the demonstrations for ousting Bolsonaro. Seeking to justify this dirty policy with pseudo-radical phraseology, the leader of Resistencia, Valerio Arcary, opposed the tactic of a slow attrition [of Bolsonaro] with the assertion that unity in action with  the bourgeoisie is essential and progressive.

Few sections of the pseudo-left present their opportunism as openly as Transicao Socialista. The group has (justifiably) claimed to have pioneered the policy of joint action with the far right and the bourgeoisie, now advocated by the entire Brazilian pseudo-left. It promoted the reactionary middle-class protests that served as a popular cover for the impeachment of PT President Dilma Rousseff.

The TS once again argues in favor of unity with every sector ... even the liberals, based on the demoralized claim that one must be realistic, and accept that what is posed as a possibility on the horizon is not a general strike. In other words, they shamelessly claim that the working class should not be taken as the subject of historical transformation and, instead, one should adapt oneself to what exists, i.e., capitalism.

The reactionary response of these pseudo-left groups to the profound political crisis gripping the Brazilian ruling class is unmasking them as the bitterest enemies of the working class.

For an independent political movement of the working class!

The Brazilian Socialist Equality Group, in solidarity with the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI), stands in irreconcilable opposition to the maneuvers of the bourgeoisie and its pseudo-left agents to derail the growing social opposition to Bolsonaro and the entire capitalist system.

We call on the hundreds of thousands of youth and workers who joined the recent protests with the genuine desire to overthrow Bolsonaros fascistic government and fight for the social and democratic rights of the Brazilian population to turn to the only social force capable of realizing these demands: the working class mobilized independently based upon its own methods of struggle and political program.

Over the past year, the working class has demonstrated its objectively revolutionary social character by responding with a wave of strikes and militant opposition to the capitalist attacks carried out in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The spread of the coronavirus across Europe and North America provoked a wave of wildcat industrial strikes that forced the ruling class to adopt lockdown policies. In Brazil, a similar wave of wildcat strikes broke out in March 2020 among workers in call centers across the country opposing the deadly risks they faced at their workplaces.

The militant response of Brazilian workers was continued in a series of strikes against unsafe conditions in the workplaces and the assault on living standards by health care workers, bus drivers and other transportation workers, app delivery workers, oil workers at Petrobras, auto workers, workers at meat processing plants and those in other industrial sectors. Dozens of teachers strikes have been and continue to be called against the criminal reopening of schools across Brazil.

All these movements have faced the active opposition of the union federations and local trade unions, which acted consciously to isolate and break the strikes, guaranteeing the operation of the corporations and schools at the expense of the mass death of the workers.

The struggle of the Brazilian working class can advance only through a definitive political break with the PT, its pseudo-leftist satellites and the corporatist unions controlled by them, which represent the police forces of capitalism.

Brazilian workers and youth must appeal not to the supposedly progressive sections of the bourgeoisie, but to their fellow workers around the world, who face the same dangers of the uncontrolled spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, the massive advance of social inequality and the destruction of democratic forms of government.

With the perspective of unifying the powerful emerging struggles of the global working class and directing them against capitalism, last May Day the ICFI launched a call for the formation of the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC).

Brazilian workers should join this initiative, forming rank-and-file committees in every workplace and coordinating their struggles with their colleagues in different industries and across national borders.

As the statement of the ICFI made clear, the IWA-RFC should raise the banner of socialism, orienting the working class toward the seizure of political power, the expropriation of capitalist banks and corporations and the redirection of the vast fortunes accumulated by the financial and corporate oligarchy to meet the social needs of the worlds masses.

The fate of this struggle depends upon the construction of a revolutionary party in the Brazilian working class, a section of the ICFI. Over decades, the ICFI has single-handedly defended the socialist and internationalist principles of Marxism betrayed by Social Democracy, Stalinism and Pabloite revisionism.

Today, the gains of this historic struggle are merging with the objective movement of the working class, opening the path for the construction of the Socialist Equality Parties as the leadership of the working class in struggle for the international socialist revolution.
On Monday, the New York Times published an article on a recently uncovered FBI intelligence report showing that fascist groups involved in the January 6 attack on the Capitol were being monitored in real time by multiple law enforcement agencies, including the DC Metropolitan and US Capitol Police.

The FBI document reveals that prior to the attack, the FBI gave the US Capitol Police and the DC Metropolitan Police hand-held radios encoded with the specific radio channel frequency used by far-right militia groups prior to and during the attack.

The intelligence report was released as part of a Freedom of Information Request submitted by the nonprofit transparency organization Property of the People. The group, cofounded by Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduate and activist Ryan Shapiro, has previously passed on to newspapers internal police and FBI documents revealing a wide range of government corruption, illegality, spying and abuse.

The January 19, 2021 FBI situation report obtained by Property of the People, titled National Crisis Coordination Center Update: Preventing Violence and Criminal Activity January 2021, deals mainly with the numerous fascist threats law enforcement agencies were monitoring leading up to the inauguration of Joe Biden.

The document notes that as of January 19, 17 FBI field offices were investigating a total of 40 Threat to Life Guardians, including threats toward prominent politicians and law enforcement and their families. The document states that multiple reports had been received indicating various threats to harm President-elect Biden ahead of the Presidential Inauguration. It continues: Additional reports indicate threats against VP-Elect [Kamala] Harris and Speaker [Nancy] Pelosi.

Toward the end of the document, however, the FBI states: According to law enforcement partners, some members of identified groups that attended the 6 January events had planned to use specific radio frequencies for their communication. This information was shared with DCs Office of Unified Communications to program some handheld radios, which were given to US Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department, for monitoring.

This revelation is highly significant on a number of accounts. First, it underscores the fact that the attack on the Capitol was not a spur-of-the-moment event involving overzealous Trump supporters, but rather a sophisticated, preplanned operation spearheaded by militia groups such as the Proud Boys playing a leading role. Several months earlier, in a televised debate with Biden, Trump had refused to commit to a peaceful transition of power and called on the Proud Boys to stand back and stand by should he be declared the loser of the November election.

In a March indictment against four Proud Boy leadersEthan Nordean, Joseph Biggs, Zachary Rehl and Charles Donohoethe government alleged that an unindicted coconspirator provided the group with crowd-funded baofeng (Chinese encrypted) radios on January 5. On publicly available social media, members of the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers are seen using radios and earpieces to communicate prior to and during the siege of the Capitol.

The release of the document raises several questions about the role of the FBI and the DC and Capitol police in Trumps attempted coup. It adds significantly to the already ample evidence that all the agencies tasked with protecting Congress and ensuring the certification of the Electoral College vote were well aware that an attack was possible, even imminent. Nevertheless, they failed to make any serious preparations or respond in a timely fashion once the assault was underway.

As the World Socialist Web Site reported following the attack, publicly available video shows officers with the US Capitol Police opening gates for insurrectionists, taking selfies with Trump supporters and apparently encouraging them to storm the Capitol.

Zello radio messages of Oath Keepers communications recorded by WNYC radio reporter Micah Loewinger on January 6 confirm that the absence of police resistance was noted by indicted militia member and former US Army soldier Jessica Watkins. Police are doing nothing, theyre not even trying to stop us at this point, remarked Watkins on January 6.

These still unanswered questions, over six months since the siege, underscore the degree to which the Democratic Party and the corporate media have worked to cover up the scale of the coup conspiracy and the complicity of highly placed officials in the FBI, the military and the police.

The Times writes that the FBI document is more evidence that law enforcement agencies were well aware of the involvement of organized extremists in the stop the steal protests, but the newspaper fails to raise the possibility that the attack was deliberately and actively aided by the police.

Instead, the Times implies that the lack of any serious mobilization of police and security forces was an unfortunate lapse or, in the words of the official 9/11 Commission coverup, a failure to connect the dots. The newspaper hastens to reassure its readers that the Capitol Police department is making major changes, including better training with the National Guard.

The Times makes no mention of one of the most damning revelations concerning the role of the US Capitol Police. As revealed over a month ago by US Capitol Police Inspector General Michael Bolton in sworn testimony before Congress and in an official report by his office, the Capitol Police paid the private paramilitary contractor Northern Red Inc. tens of thousands of dollars to train its rapid response unit, the Containment Emergency Response Team, or CERT, in 2018 and 2019.

Northern Red trainers are former US Army Special Forces soldiers. Its CEO is an admirer of Adolf Hitler with close ties to other fascistic veterans of death squad missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The CERT unit trained by Northern Red refused to evacuate lawmakers or use less lethal rounds during the storming of the Capitol on January 6.

This author reached out to the Times to ask why it has not even reported this crucial fact. As of this writing, the Times has not responded.
On June 23, hundreds of NZ Bus drivers in Wellington voted to reject a sellout deal hatched between the company and the Tramways Union. It was the third offer rejected by the drivers, who are among the lowest-paid workers in New Zealand, many receiving the minimum wage of $20 an hour or less.

Since then, the media and the union have remained silent, as union officials re-entered negotiations, keeping workers in the dark. Only some details of the rejected offer were made public. It would have increased wages to $22.10 per hour, funded not by NZ Bus, but by a subsidy from the Labour Party-led Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC), which contracts NZ Bus and other private companies to provide bus services.

A Wellington bus (Source: Wikipedia)

The small increase was to be accompanied by cuts to overtime and weekend penalty rates. Currently, drivers are paid double time on Sunday and time-and-a-half for Saturdays and overtime. This would have reduced to $40 an hour on Sundays and $30 on Saturdays. Taken as a whole, the deal would have essentially frozen wages, while the cost-of-living soars, especially housing costs.

The stand taken by the drivers is part of a growing fightback by workers internationally. In New Zealand, the Labour Party-led governments wage freeze has led to a nationwide strike by healthcare workers. In every country, the main obstacle is the trade unions, which are working to suppress opposition to pro-corporate restructuring and austerity.

Locked out bus drivers in Wellington, April 23. (Credit: WSWS Media)

The World Socialist Web Site recently spoke with a senior Wellington bus driver, who we will call James (not his real name), about why the union-backed offer was rejected. The union did not show workers the full proposed contract. Instead, they were given selected highlights of the change.

I took one look at the offer [and] I honestly couldnt believe that it was being presented to us, he said. We had made a very clear statement to our union executive that the first thing we would never do was to give up any of our conditions, and the offer was a considerable reduction in our conditions.

Despite decades of experience, James still makes only $20.40 an hour. Under the proposal, he would have lost 80 cents an hour on Sundays and 60 cents on Saturdays. Thanks to the GWRCs wage subsidy, NZ Bus would save $2.50 an hour from its wages bill for weekend shifts: the company would only have to top up James Sunday wages by $17.90, instead of the current $20.40.

The union also agreed with NZ Bus to end allowances for drivers to take taxis to work. I know that there are a number of drivers that rely quite heavily on that, and theres no other way to get to work, James said. Many drivers have to travel considerable distances early in the morning. Successive companies that have operated Wellington buses since they were first privatised by the council in 1992 have wanted to get rid of the allowance.

Drivers were particularly angry that the proposed deal would have lengthened the working day, which can already be very long. It included a clause that said an eight-hour shift could be worked over a 12-hour period, instead of the current maximum of 11 hours. The rejected offer would have allowed NZ Bus to make a driver work four hours and go on a break for four hours, and when they come back, do another four hours, James said.

James pointed out that in the 1990s almost all bus drivers worked full-time, but now there are many part-timers. There are no guarantees anywhere [in the offer] that they would create even one full-time shift. I have no faith that they wouldnt have kept all those part-time shifts and made all the full time shifts into 12-hour shifts.

To even present to us that last package just blew my mind, James said, because drivers had been quite forceful in rejecting the previous one. We told [the union]: if they try and remove anything from our contract, just tell them well go on strike. Despite having a clear mandate for industrial action, none has been called.

The Tramways Union sought to pressure drivers into taking the pro-company deal by telling them it was the best they would get, and that strike action would be useless. The message was: this offer is a good one, you should take it, and if you dont, then on your head be it, James said. He added that union officials have recently told drivers that they are finalising a better offer with NZ Bus. No details have been released, however.

The driver explained that prior to the privatisation of public transport in the 1990s, drivers had better wages. To get a job on the buses you had to know someone who would refer you to go on a waiting list to get an appointment. It was that difficult. Now theyll take anyone, because theyre desperate. He concluded that you cant run a public service and make profit your only goal.

The public transport system is increasingly run-down. Stuff reports that the Wellington region needs about 700 drivers in total, and is currently 60 short. To cope with the shortage, the council agency Metlink will unveil a new timetable on July 25, with 19 services either shortened or cancelled.

A restructure in 2018 saw Tranzit (operating as Tranzurban) take over 60 percent of bus routes, while NZ Buss share was reduced to 30 percent. Tranzit won the contract from the GWRC because it slashed labour costs by eliminating penalty ratessetting a benchmark for attacks by other companies.

NZ Bus, which was acquired by Australian-based Next Capital in 2019, has ramped up its attacks on workers over the past two years. Last September, the Tramways Union imposed an agreement on 800 drivers employed by NZ Bus in Auckland, with pay rises of just 2 to 3 percent per year, essentially a pay freeze. The deal maintained conditions worse than those in Wellington, including overtime rates of 1.25 times the ordinary rate, and 1.5 times when a sixth day is worked. Workdays can be up to 14 hours long.

The transport unionsTramways, FIRST Union and the Rail and Maritime Transport Unionhave refused to carry out a united industrial campaign of all public transport workers throughout the country, let alone nurses and other workers coming into struggle. They are seeking to isolate NZ Bus workers and persuade them to accept a sellout. The unions have also repeatedly promoted illusions in the Labour Party and the Ardern government, which is overseeing a dramatic increase in social inequality and poverty.

The Socialist Equality Group is holding a public meeting on Zoom on Saturday, at 4:00 p.m. NZ time, to discuss the way forward for Wellington bus drivers. It will present the case for new workers organisations: rank-and-file committees, independent and opposed to the unions and the Labour Party. Speakers from New Zealand, Britain and Australia will discuss the growing rank-and-file rebellion against the union bureaucracies throughout the world, and the need for a socialist strategy to unify workers internationally. We invite all workers to register here to attend this important meeting.
A Kroger storefront (FoodIndustry.com)

A lawsuit filed MondayKenneth Seyfried v. The Kroger Companyalleges that the manager of the grocery chains location in Milford, Ohio, a suburb of Cincinnati, imposed and facilitated disturbing, dangerous, and deranged conditions, which resulted in the suicide of an employee.

Kenneth is the father of Evan Seyfried, a 40-year-old dairy manager and 19-year veteran of Kroger. He was [a] dutiful Kroger employee [who] reported to work each and every day during [the coronavirus] pandemic ready to provide a quality, safe product, yet was tormented by his own superiors inside of the building that promised to keep all customers and associates safe, said family attorney Austin LiPuma. Evan was dedicated to this career with Kroger. In return, Kroger intentionally subjected Evan to torturous conditions that were directly responsible for his death.

According to the lawsuit, In the early morning of March 9, 2021  a man with no prior history of severe mental health concerns, slashed his arms, wrist, and throat succumbing to his wounds within minutes.

The suit accuses manager Shannon Frazee of having began a campaign dedicated to ousting Evan while proclaiming her intention to make Evans life a living hell in October of last year. And then, from that point on, this is fall 2020, because of his refusals to comply with, quite frankly, dangerous conduct, said LiPuma, They then targeted him with just, as I mentioned, completely indescribable behavior.

The harassment against Seyfried was apparently a politically motivated right-wing campaign which zeroed in on Seyfried for his concern about the spread of coronavirus and his attempts to take precautions to protect himself and others. This allegedly led to hazing, taunting, and bullying and attempts to sabotage his work. As part of the alleged bullying, Seyfrieds boss mocked and humiliated him for wearing a facemask, as well as for his politics.

The lawsuit further alleges that Frazee pitted associates against each other based not only on their willingness to follow COVID-19 safety guidelines, but also on their political ideologies. Evan was consistently mocked and harassed. Coworkers referred to him as antifa. Frazee placed specific pressure on Evan and other associates with differing political opinions.

While the United Food and Commercial Workers union is not a defendant in the suit, they maintained a guilty silence. Neither the local or national union vigorously opposed the campaign while it was in progress and did little beyond routine grievance procedures which were dragged on and had gone nowhere by the time Seyfried, who is a union member, committed suicide.

In addition to the hazing, taunting, and bullying, according to the lawsuit, Frazee also made multiple, unwanted sexual advances to Evan, which he reported with zero recourse. The suit continues, Frazees campaign against Evan continued when she and other agents began purposely leaving holes in the Dairy Department schedules, resulting in a huge backlog of product, uncleaned shelving units, and incorrectly shelved product.

This resulted in Seyfried diverting attention and time required for other tasks to address the sabotage. However, when Seyfried asked for overtime to address the present issues, he was denied by Frazee. The lawsuit continues, in late 2020 unidentified persons began to follow Evan home from work. Seyfrieds friends believed these to be coworkers Frazee pitted against him. This stalking was also confirmed by not only his parents but his neighbors as well. neighbors who commented on the neighborhood webpage that there were occupied, unfamiliar vehicles parked on the street for unusually long periods of time. This behavior continued until Evans death.

Nearing the close of 2020 and continuing the following year late into February, Evan began to have confrontations with both Frazee and Joseph Pigg, another manager at the store. As Seyfried was experiencing heightened pressure from Frazee, the harassment he was subjected did so too. In late January, 2021, the lawsuit says, Evan entered Piggs office to use the copier. While there, Pigg informed Evan, that his access to the Kroger system meant that he could tap into Evans computer and track Evan and his internet usage at all times.

Nearing the end of January, Frazee hired the sister and brother-in-law of another agent at the Milford location. A general consensus was reached that the brother-in-law would replace Seyfried upon his termination, and that Evans days [were] numbered. Seyfried, growing weary of the hostile work environment, stepped down from his management position in the Dairy Department and requested a transfer to another store. His request was denied. He was told management would need sixty days to honor his request. Seyfried had suspicions Frazee was barring his transfer to ensure his termination.

On February 22, an unnamed coworker and friend, referred to as Associate in the lawsuit, called union representative Steven Nichols to report the hostile work environment. On February 28, Associate texted Seyfried that he should also talk to Nichols about the harassment. Associate reported that she specifically  wanted to call Nichols about feeling bullied and harassed, and, fearing retaliation, was hesitant to call the helpline before but said, its going [too] far especially with you and [unnamed associate].

It was around this time that two female coworkers approached Evan, telling him that they had been sexually harassed by Pigg. Evan followed this up by bringing the two women to the stores union representative to assist in reporting Pigg for sexual harassment. However, Pigg was transferred out of the Milford store, only to be transferred back to the Milford location two weeks later as the Security Manager.

After myriad reports gone ignored by the company and union, the stalking of Seyfried resumed with more furor. Seyfried began receiving numerous text messages from unidentified numbers, querying Are you going to sue the company? and Are you going to try and get us? These text messages eventually led to psychological torture where explicit photos of child pornography were sent to Seyfried.

In early March, Seyfried filed another complaint about Frazees harassment to the union and a meeting was set for March 8th. This meeting never took place, as Seyfried would resign the day before.

After Seyfried confronted Frazee on her behavior, she was heard saying that she would make Seyfrieds life a living hell. Following this statement, dairy products, which were out-of-date, began appearing back on the shelves, notwithstanding Seyfried having double-checked the stock. Frazee, according to the lawsuit, also convinced Evans coworkers to meddle with the Dairy stock in an attempt to fabricate a reason for Evans termination.

A coworker resigned due to thishe refused to engage in Frazees scheme. This former employees position remained vacant at the behest of Frazee to c[o]me down harder on Evan.

On March 4, a store-wide audit was scheduled with the Regional Manager. Seyfried was stressing that if written up during the audit, he would be terminated. He believed Frazee and others involved would  use that chance to gratuitously accuse him of his crimes, such as property theft or possession of child pornography, based statements made by Pigg and the companys ability to hack into ones personal devices using Kroger-sponsored technology.

In the early morning hours, at approximately 02:00 EDT, Evan found an associate taking pictures of the shelves in the Dairy Department. The coworker informed Seyfried of the outdated products, and that she was passing this information directly to Frazee and that she had been doing so since January.

Two hours later, Seyfried found an outdated carton of milk, scanned the item, and removed it. Then, at 06:00 EDT, Seyfried found another carton of outdated milk on the same shelf. He repeated the process by scanning the item and removing it from the shelf. At 08:23, he found a third outdated carton the same shelf, and then a fourth at 10:05. At 10:45, Seyfried noted that a couple posing as customers  came through, describing the couple as a 510 bald man with a fake Spanish accent and 56 brunette woman. The couple walked through the dairy section, filming the doors and bunker. Seyfried believes they were placing outdated cartons of milk on the shelves.

At 10:58, Seyfried noted a woman came through end of aisle 25 asking for brown paper bag  asked her if I could check the dates [of her yogurt], she agreed [sic] we checked the dates, two or three of the Go-Gurt or Yoplait boxes she checked, I did not. She became nervous and went to look for brown paper bags.

Following these events, Associate called the companys Ethics Helpline, and spoke with an agent on the line for 22 minutes. Associate informed the helpline agent that Frazee was bullying people to step down to replace them with people she wanted. Associate also informed the helpline agent she felt targeted and the need to photograph her work to protect herself against unsubstantiated and false claims. She further asked if the helpline agent could pull the stores security footage.

During the audit, Seyfried spoke with the union representative again, writing, Shannon [Frazee] is holding me in this store in order to set me up to be fired for insubordination specifically for not checking yogurt dates. Seyfried made a note of this on March 1, writing, Im concerned about retaliation.

On March 5, the harassment continued. According to the suit, at 08:15 EDT, someone took Seyfrieds scangun that he was logged into. He found it 5 minutes later with items having been scanned. At 08:30, he was approached by a coworker sent by Frazee with concerns regarding the Dairy aisle. At 08:44, a customer handed Seyfried a sour cream tub with a fresh cut in the container, saying this would only cause you problems later.

Approaching 09:00, coworkers began finding outdated milk cartons in the breakroom. Seyfried was asked if he knew anything about it. At the conclusion of Seyfrieds shift, he texted Associate, Today was worse than imagined. The situation at the store is far far [sic] beyond inappropriate. This place is not a safe place to be. [Its] ugly.

Later that day, he again texted Associate, [I] think the company we work for has done something to my phone. Have more interaction with undercover store security than customers. Union members working in tandem with management to get me fired. This is totally out of control.

Between the days March 6 and March 8, Seyfried informed his union representative that he was quitting effective immediately. One of Seyfrieds former coworkers quit his job too, claiming he could not work without Evan there. The following day on March 7, Seyfrieds position was filled with the brother-in-law.

Seyfried continued to worry about the unfounded criminal charges including property theft and possession of child pornography. Evan still believed Pigg had access to his phone, according to the lawsuit. On March 8, Seyfried and his father made the decision to go to the law firm of OConner Acciani and Levy, a personal injury firm located in downtown Cincinnati, regarding concerns around Seyfrieds phone.

However, prior to entering the law firm, Evan experienced a transient episodic break. According to the lawsuit, Evan ran into the building and subsequently wandered away from his father and threw away all his possessions. His father found him wandering the streets approximately two hours later.

On March 9 around midnight, Evan told his father that Frazee and Pigg were going to get him and that things would get ugly. These were Evans last words before taking his life. Kenneth found his son, dead, in his room two hours later.

There is absolutely nothing else indicative that Evan had any issues with mental illness, no history of any issues whatsoever, said LiPuma, and every single complaint that led up to that fateful day was solely attributable to those garish stories in conduct from that location.

On March 11, Frazee called Eric Seyfried, Evans brother, to offer her condolences. Eric, however, reported that Frazee was taking the familys temperature regarding future litigation.

Associate followed up with the Ethics Helpline, after Evans death, to see if the Ethics department had investigated her claims filed March 4. She informed the department that the main subject that call had took [sic] his own life. The department informed Associate that they had investigated her claims and closed the investigation prior to Evans death.

The lawsuit seeks a jury trial on myriad claims against Kroger and the two managers: conspiracy; intentional infliction of emotional distress; negligent infliction of emotional distress; invasion of privacy; sexual harassment, and wrongful death.

We also have so many questions, knowing that Evan attempted to blow the whistle to say these are the people supposed to protect me, Im trying to put you on notice, said LiPuma.
South Africa has been rocked by four days of angry protests and riots across the country, in what has been described as the worst disturbances since the end of the hated apartheid regime and minority white rule and the assumption of power by the African National Congress (ANC) in 1994.

South Africas two most densely populated provinces, Gauteng, home to Johannesburg, the countrys commercial capital and largest city, and the capital Pretoria, and the eastern province of KwaZulu-Natal, were the worst affected. But protests have spread to Northern Cape and Mpumalanga provinces.

As protesters far outnumbered the police, people looted stores, warehouses, store depots and factories, making off with electrical goods, clothes and foodstuffs, while others set fire to shops and offices. The BBC aired a film clip of a mother dropping her toddler from a burning building into the arms of a group of people below.

Soldiers patrol outside a shopping mall in Vosloorus, east of in Johannesburg, South Africa, Wednesday, July 14, 2021. (AP Photo/Themba Hadebe)

Several of the countrys major highways were blocked after trucks were set alight, prompting South Africa's largest oil refinery to announce the suspension of its operations, blaming the civil unrest and disruption of supply routes in and out of KwaZulu-Natal. This has led to long queues forming outside petrol stations and shops in the eastern port city of Durban and Johannesburg.

The violence has reportedly affected healthcare clinics and the faltering vaccine rollout programme, with medical supplies and medications looted, even as South Africas third wave of Covid infections rips through the country. According to official statistics, the virus has killed at least 64,000 people, although excess mortality figures indicate that another 100,000, if not more, have died directly or indirectly due to the pandemic.

At least 72 people have died and more than 1,300 people have been arrested during the protests. While most of those who died were killed by live fire from the police, ten were killed during a crowd crush at the Ndofaya shopping mall in Soweto, Johannesburg, and others were crushed in a warehouse when a stack of goods fell on looters.

The protests were initially triggered by last weeks jailing of former president Jacob Zuma, ordered by the Constitutional Court for contempt of court for initially defying its order to appear at an inquiry into corruption during his presidency from 2009 to 2018. Fearing his actions and those of his cronies were impacting adversely on South Africas business interests at home and abroad and costing the ANC electoral support, as reflected in major losses in the 2016 municipal elections, President Cyril Ramaphosas faction in the ANC had forced him to resign.

The 79-year-old Zuma is a veteran of the anti-apartheid struggle that he joined when he was 17, serving a 10-year prison sentence on Robben Island in the 1960s alongside Nelson Mandela. Zuma was also a member of the Stalinist South African Communist Party (SACP) until 1990. He has played a major role in the ANC ever since. This, his professed support for the poor farmers and workers, and a significant degree of patronage, has enabled him to retain a measure of popular support, despite being mired for years in scandals and facing a long-postponed trial for fraud, corruption and racketeering.

Zuma and his faction attacked the judicial decision, accusing the court and his political opponents of political bias and imposing a prison sentence without trial that was unconstitutional. After initially refusing to turn himself into the police and calling on his supporters to oppose the sentence, he had given in at the last moment on Wednesday and reported to the authorities. On Monday, the Constitutional Court agreed to hear his petition to rescind its imprisonment order, although it has yet to declare its ruling.

The protests by Zumas supporters, largely in his home province of KwaZulu-Natal, rapidly morphed into a wider movement against the ANC government. Millions are angered over its mismanagement of the pandemic and vaccine rollout and an escalating economic crisis that has left many people without jobs, income or financial support from the government, as the top echelons of the ruling party have enriched themselves at public expense.

With one of the highest levels of income inequality in the world, South Africas most affluent 20 percent of the population take more than 68 percent of income. According to government statistics, a pale reflection of reality, one third of workers are without work, leading to the pauperisation of millions, while the government has frozen public sector wages, refusing to pay a wage increase due from April 2020 under the 2018 three-year agreement.

While Ramaphosa was forced to acknowledge the widespread anger over social conditions that have turned the country into a powder keg, this did not stop him ordering the army to help the police disperse the crowds, suppress the protests and arrest looters. Addressing the nation on television on Monday, only the second time since the riots broke out, he said, Let me be clear: we will take action to protect every person in this country against the threat of violence, intimidation, theft and looting. By this he meant that the army would act to protect big business and the South African bourgeoisie from the enraged masses.

He announced a two-week extension of the limited lockdown measures to counter a brutal third wave of Covid infections at the weekend that include a ban on gatherings and the sale of alcohol, a 9pm to 4am curfew and school closures, seeking to lay the blame for disrupting the vaccination programme on the protesters.

Ramaphosa warned that the country faced the danger of sliding back to the ethnic infighting of the early 1990s when, under apartheid, sinister elements stoked the flames of violence in our communities to try and turn us against each other.

Ramaphosas faction more openly courts international finance and big business to invest in South Africa and has pledged to root out the corruption endemic within the ANC that has made foreign capital and the international financial institutions reluctant to deal with the country. He has sought to use the courts against his ANC opponents, arguing that what is at stake is the rule of law. By this is meant that rule of capitalist law that has allowed Ramaphosa to build up a massive personal fortune, and which sanctions the financial elites expropriation of the wealth created by the working class in the form of profit and dividends to shareholders and allows big business to hide its criminality behind the corporate veil.

This does not mean that workers should support the nakedly corrupt Zuma or his backers. The factional infighting within the ANC expresses the protracted crisis gripping the entire South African bourgeoisie. The ANC came to power in 1994 in a bid to rescue South African capitalism in a period of rapid transition. As globalisation of production became widespread, the nationalist and autarkic apartheid regime was no longer fit for purpose, amid fears that the rising militancy of the South African working class could spell the end of capitalist rule in the country.

The ANC was chosen as the mechanism to suppress the revolutionary strivings of the black working class, with a black capitalist class being formed to take its place alongside the white capitalists, through programmes of Black Economic Empowerment (BEE). This was sanctified politically through the SACPs Stalinist two-stage theory, which proclaimed the formal end of apartheid as a democratic revolution and a necessary stage before any struggle for socialism.

Ramaphosas career, no less than Zumas, expresses the trajectory of the ANC and its politics. Once heading South Africas largest trade union, the National Union of Mineworkers, he was elected as ANC general secretary in 1991. Soon becoming a multi-millionaire, as a shareholder in the Lonmin mines in Marikana, in 2012 Ramaphosa called on the authorities to take action against striking miners. This greenlighted the security forces firing on the strikers, killing 34 and wounding 78 others.

The path of the ANC from opposition to co-option has been replicated across Africa and the Middle East. The national bourgeoisie, dependent upon imperialism and fearful of revolution from below, cannot resolve the fundamental democratic, economic and social problems confronting the masses. Only the working class can do that. It means breaking with the capitalist politics of the ANC and adopting a socialist and international programme in the closest unity with their class brothers and sisters in the African continent and in the imperialist centres, to take power and overthrow capitalism.
Students at the University of Western Australias (UWA) School of Social Sciences have launched a petition titled Save Social Sciences at UWA, seeking to halt a new round of job cuts and restructuring at the university. In just four days, there has been an outpouring of support. There are nearly 5,000 signatures and hundreds of comments expressing disgust at the escalating pro-corporate restructuring of universities at the expense of scholarship and genuine education.

According to WA Today, the UWAs School of Social Sciences is just the first to suffer in a $40 million cost-cutting program, with almost all staff in sociology and anthropology axed and their disciplines to disappear. Eight of nine positions are being eliminated in anthropology and sociology. Three jobs are going from political sciences and international relations, three from geography and planning, and one each from Asian studies and archaeology.

University of Western Australia in Perth [Source: University of Western Australia]

According to the Campus Morning Mail, the student-to-staff ratio is to be increased from 18:1 to 35:1 across the school. Overall, 16 academic positions are set to be axed, with 12 jobs being reassigned from teaching and research to teaching-focused. There will be seven new jobs.

In Brand, Marketing and Recruitment, some 34 positions are set to go, with a proposal to create 13 new posts. At the UWAs library, eight jobs are to be destroyed, and four new ones created. In all the new positions, staff will be forced to compete for lower-level, worse-paying jobs.

The student petition states that the plan directly targets for redundancy a significant proportion of the schools highest performing, world-renowned researchers, including a professor who played a critical leadership role on the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The cuts will decimate postgraduate education in the School, in both quality and scope Through the proposed redundancies and reallocation of staff roles, we are losing 28 of our supervisors and mentors, and estimate at least 43 percent and up to 65 percent of the PhDs currently enrolled in the school will be severely impacted.

This campaign reflects a broader striving by students and young people to find ways to fight the historic offensive underway against university jobs, conditions and courses, and the wider wholesale attack on working class conditions under the cover of the COVID-19 pandemic. For years, the resistance of students, like university workers, has been stifled or derailed by the staff and student unions.

A similar struggle has been taken up by students at Sydneys Macquarie University, where the Mathematical Society has launched a petition demanding the reinstatement of a much-appreciated lecturer, Dr. Frank Valckenborgh. A petition has been initiated also at Melbournes Monash University against the effective retrenchment of Dr. Jan Bryant, a highly-regarded art history and theory academic and educator.

Like the Macquarie and Monash petitions, the comments posted on the one at UWA, mostly by students, demonstrate passionate opposition to the ongoing business-driven attacks on public education, carried out for decades by successive Liberal-National and Labor governments.

The top-voted comment on the petition states: Universities should not be so concerned with what is popular or profitable or politically expedient. Instead, the universitys purpose is the advancement of human knowledge for the betterment of humanity. To open young peoples minds and help them learn how to think, how to collaborate, how to find their place in the world. They should not just be glorified technical colleges. I am genuinely sad about whats happening to our universities and I have grave concerns for our children. At such a crucial point in world history, we need all our great minds in full bloom. Instead were cutting them off at the knees.

Another states: Universities should represent the greatest depth of curiosity & desire to understand the nature of human existencethese cuts highlight a focus on supporting disciplines which make money at the expense of those that ask questions.

Another comment points to the assault on education internationally: This phenomenon is not unique to UWA and Australia. It is a crisis in the social sciences that is now developing all over the world.

Such student-led actions need the broadest support from students, youth and workers. This means a fight in opposition to the National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) and student unions, which have assisted university managements to impose the corporate elites demands, resulting in the destruction of an estimated 90,000 jobs in the past 18 months.

The cuts are hitting all Western Australias universities. Murdoch University retrenched 100 staff last year. At Curtin University, 140 voluntary redundancies supposedly saved the institution $21 million. In Fremantle, Notre Dame pushed for an 18 percent reduction in staff to save $15 million.

Sacrifices of pay and conditions extracted from university workers by the NTEU last year have emboldened university managements to go further, commencing a new wave of cuts across the country.

In a staff forum last week, Adelaide University vice-chancellor Peter Hj unveiled forced redundancies of upwards of 130 full-time equivalent (FTE) professional staff. That comes on top of 157 voluntary redundancies in 2020.

Last year, the NTEU dragooned staff at Adelaide University into accepting a 3.5 percent pay cut, loss of annual leave loading, postponement of a pay increase of 1.5 percent and a purchased leave scheme. The NTEU falsely claimed this would save 200 FTE jobs.

At Melbournes La Trobe University, another 300 jobs are on the chopping block under a change plan to be released this month. Over 300 voluntary redundancies have already been instituted there since the beginning of 2020, assisted by a similarly destructive NTEU deal. If the latest cuts proceed, La Trobe will have lost 15 percent of its permanent workforce, on top of a significant reduction of its casual staff.

Years of funding cuts, particularly since the last federal Labor governments education revolution, made universities dependent on exploiting full-fee paying international students, but that market has been shattered by the still-worsening global pandemic.

The current Liberal-National government has utilised the crisis to impose its Job-Ready Graduates legislation, which slashed funding for social science students, while hiking their fees. This is taking the pro-business restructuring of universities to a new level, more directly servicing the vocational and research requirements of the wealthy elite.

The struggle taken up by students against the demolition of higher education at Macquarie University and nationally will be the subject of a joint online public meeting of the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) and the Committee for Public Education (CFPE) on this Saturday, July 17, at 4 p.m. (AEST).

The meeting will discuss the necessity for a socialist perspective to fight the capitalist offensive and for the formation of a network of student-staff rank-and-file committees to mount a unified counter-offensive, completely independent of the thoroughly complicit staff and student unions. To register to attend click here.
Amid the surge in the Delta strain of the coronavirus cases across Tennessee, the state government summarily fired its top vaccination official, Dr. Michelle Fiscus, the medical director for vaccine-preventable diseases and immunizations programs, on Monday afternoon without providing any explanation of her termination.

The following day, Tennessee Republican state lawmakers ordered the Department of Health to discontinue all adolescent vaccine outreach initiatives, under the threat of dissolving the department, not just for COVID-19, but for all diseases.

Dr. Michelle Fiscus

This included the HPV vaccine, which has been proven safe and highly effective, when provided to adolescents before they begin having sexual relations, to protect them against a virus implicated in cervical cancer. There will also be no back-to-school messaging to more than 30,000 parents who were not able to get their children the measles vaccine last year.

According to the department emails obtained by The Tennessean, the Nashville daily newspaper, County-level employees [were instructed] to halt vaccination events focused on adolescents and stop online outreach to teens. Additionally, pro-vaccine Facebook posts and flyers from its website showing teens with Band-Aids on their shoulders, indicating anyone 12 years old or more was eligible for vaccination, have been removed.

What appeared to have outraged the right-wing lawmakers was a legal doctrine that allows the administration of vaccines to unaccompanied minors as young as 14 without explicit consent from their parents. The Rule of Sevens states, Between the ages of 14 and 18, there is a rebuttable presumption of capacity, and the physician may treat without parental consent unless the physician believes that the minor is not sufficiently mature to make his or her own health care decision.

This principle allows health professionals to render medical assistance to juvenile drug abusers, treat sexually transmitted diseases, provide prenatal care, or treat emergency cases. The rule does not, however, permit minors to obtain an abortion.

Health Commissioner Dr. Lisa Piercey, during questioning on June 16, 2021, standing before the Government Operations Committee, explained that the doctrine had been invoked only eight times across the state.

Representative Scott Cepicky, R-Culleoka, accused the department of health of sidestepping parental authority to target children and called the action reprehensible. He added, When you have advertisements like this, with a young girl with a patch on her arm, all smiling, we all know how impressionable our young people are and wanting to fit in in life.

Representative Scott Cepicky, Republican-Culleoka. Screen shot from Tennessee General Assembly Video Stream.

He later made a motion that passed with the support of his Republican colleagues to reconvene the health department before the committee on July 21 for additional questions and consider dissolving and reconstituting the agency. This initiative has the support of Republican Governor Bill Lee.

Instead of embracing the expertise of public health experts, epidemiologists, and infectious disease specialists, the Republican right has sought to foment a backlash against them, fueled by the antiscientific hysteria of fascist politicians like Trump, fundamentalist preachers, and the ultra-right media.

Dr. Fiscus, Tennessees top vaccine official with years of experience, said during a media interview on Tuesday, Its a huge symptom of just how toxic the whole political landscape has become. This virus is apolitical; it doesnt care who you are or where you live, or which president you preferred. Its just been a very difficult thing for us to overcome.

In another statement, she wrote, I am not a political operative, I am a physician who was, until today, charged with protecting the people of Tennessee, including its children, against the preventable diseases like COVID-19. She bluntly noted, It was my job to provide evidence-based education and vaccine access so that Tennesseans could protect themselves against COVID-19. I have now been terminated for doing exactly that!

According to Kaiser Health News, legislatures in at least 24 states have drafted legislation to dismantle or weaken the powers of public health officials. As of the end of December 2020, more than 180 state and local public health leaders in 38 states had resigned, retired, or been fired.

After being fired from her position, Dr. Fiscus submitted a statement published in The Tennessean titled,  I am afraid for my state .

She wrote, Today, I became the 25th of 64 state and territorial immunization program directors to leave their position during this pandemic. Thats nearly 40% of us. And along with our resignations or retirements or, as in my case, push from office, goes the institutional knowledge and leadership of our respective COVID-19 vaccine responses. I will not sit quietly by while our public health infrastructure is eroded in the midst of a pandemic.

We are a group of dedicated public health professionals who have worked endless hours to make COVID-19 vaccines, the ONE tool we have to effectively end the scourge of the COVID-19 pandemic, available to every person in our jurisdictions. Along the way we have been disparaged, demeaned, accused, and sometimes vilified by a public who chooses not to believe in science, and elected and appointed officials who have put their own self-interest above the people they were chosen to represent and protect

I have been terminated for doing my job because some of our politicians have bought into the anti-vaccine misinformation campaign rather than taking the time to speak with the medical experts. They believe what they choose to believe rather than what is factual, and evidence-based. And it is the people of Tennessee who will suffer the consequences of the actions of the very people they put into power.

The United States has currently fully vaccinated 48.2 percent of its population. Tennessee has barely exceeded 38 percent of its people. Only seven other states have lower vaccination rates. Besides Wyoming and Idaho, they are all located in the Southeast of the country. In Tennessee, new cases are rising once more, having climbed 67.7 percent from the prior week, while the vaccination rate has dropped 70 percent from the previous week.

According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the five states with the most significant one-week jump in cases per capita all have much lower full vaccination rates compared to the rest of the countryFlorida 43 percent, Nevada 43 percent, Missouri 40 percent, Arkansas 35 percent, and Louisiana 36 percent. In a CNBC analysis, among 463 counties with infection levels of at least 100 cases per 100,000 residents, more than 80 percent have vaccinations rates below 40 percent.

On May 10, 2021, the US Food and Drug Administration expanded the Emergency Use authorization for the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine to prevent COVID-19 to adolescents 12 through 15 years of age. This amended the original EUA issued on Dec 11, 2020, that authorized the vaccines use in those 16 or older.

Vaccines have proven efficacious in preventing, even for the Delta variant, severe disease and hospitalizations, while side effects and disabling complications have been extremely rare. With the call to resume all in-class instructions by the end of summer, unvaccinated children will not only be potentially impacted, but they will also be the dominant vector for the continued perpetuation of the pandemic.
More than 30 million people were under excessive heat warnings or advisories across several Western states last weekend. Weather forecasters are warning of more record high temperatures throughout the region this weekend, with triple digits predicted in the Rocky Mountains region from Bozeman, Montana to Salt Lake City, Utah.

A firefighter sprays water while trying to stop the Sugar Fire, part of the Beckwourth Complex Fire, from spreading to neighboring homes in Doyle, California, Saturday, July 10, 2021. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)

The extreme heat is triggering wildfires across several US states and Canada, requiring evacuations in California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and British Columbia.

Firefighters were working in extreme temperatures across the western US and struggling to contain wildfires this week, with the largest burning in California and Oregon, as another heat wave scorched the region and strained power grids. According to the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC), this year more than one million acres have burned in 68 large fires and complexes across 12 states.

The largest wildfire of the year in Californiathe Beckwourth Complexwas raging along the Nevada state line and has burned about 134 square miles (348 square kilometers) as state regulators asked consumers, primarily workers and individual homes, to voluntarily conserve as much electricity as possible to avoid any outages starting Monday afternoon, at a time when use of air conditioning is a life or death consideration amid temperatures regularly settling at above 100 degrees Farenheit.

In Oregon, the Bootleg Fire exploded to 224 square miles (580 square kilometers) as it raced through a heavily timbered area in the Fremont-Winema National Forest, near the Klamath County town of Sprague River. The fire disrupted service on three transmission lines that provide up to 5,500 megawatts of electricity to neighboring California.

Last Friday, California Governor Gavin Newsom dispatched firefighters from the Bay Area to Oregon to help with containment of the Bootleg Fire. Two strike teams consisting of Type 3 and Type 6 engines from Fremont, Oakland, Hayward, Alameda County, South San Francisco, San Bruno, the Central Fire District, San Mateo and Kentfield were sent north. But the hot and windy conditions in the state became more extreme on Saturday, forcing firefighters to disengage and move to predetermined safety zones to avoid immediate, life-threatening risk from the Bootleg Fire, the Fremont-Winema National Forest said in a press statement. With the flames threatening 3,000 houses, residents in nearby areas were forced to evacuate, and the danger was so severe that the Klamath County sheriffs department began issuing citations for people who refused to follow evacuation orders.

A wildfire in southeast Washington has grown to almost 60 square miles (155 square kilometers) as it charred grass and timber while it moved into the Umatilla National Forest. The Red Apple fire burning between the towns of Cashmere and Wenatchee along US Highway 2 in central Washington has grown to 7,000 acres since it broke out Tuesday night, and is threatening 234 homes, a power substation and orchards in the area.

In Idaho, Governor Brad Little declared a wildfire emergency last Friday and has mobilized the National Guard to help fight fires ignited after lightning storms swept across the drought-stricken region.

In Arizona, a small plane crashed Saturday during a survey of a wildfire in rural Mohave County, killing both crew members.

The Beech C-90 aircraft was helping perform reconnaissance over the lightning-caused Cedar Basin Fire, near the tiny community of Wikieup northwest of Phoenix.

A new fire broke out Sunday afternoon in the Sierra Nevada south of Yosemite National Park, and by evening covered more than 6 square miles (15.5 square kilometers), triggering evacuations in areas of two counties. Containment was just 5 percent, but the highway leading to the southern entrance of the park remained open early Monday.

The wildfires emerge as the West is in the throes of a second extreme heat wave within weeks and as the entire region is suffering from one of the worst droughts in recent history. Extreme heat warnings in California were finally expected to expire Monday night.

The Beckwourth Complex Fire 50 miles north of Lake Tahoe is the largest wildfire of the year so far in California, and this explosive inferno is blazing through the Plumas National Forest and challenging firefighters with its extreme behavior.

The Beckwourth Complex Fire is a combination of two lightning-caused fires near the community of Beckwourth and had consumed 92,988 acres and was 46 percent contained as of Tuesday morning, according to the incident report from the US Forest Service. On Sunday, firefighters were working in temperatures that topped 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 Celsius).

On Saturday, the flames at the Complex also churned up a firenado. Firenadoes occur when large wildfires superheat the air, which causes the air to rise. As it rises, it cools and condenses in the upper reaches of the atmosphere, creating unstable conditions and a clash of air that can cause firenadoes to form. Researchers are still examining exactly what conditions lead to firenadoes, but they are among the worlds rarest extreme weather phenomena.

More footage released in the past week by the Forest Service shows that this was not Californias first firenado of the year. The video, shot on June 29, shows a powerful fire cyclone in the Tennant fire in Klamath National Forest near the states border with Oregon.

The Beckwourth Complex fire is threatening lives along the state border in Nevadas Washoe County and, because of increasing wind, evacuation orders went into effect for the Rancho Haven, Fish Springs and Flanigan Flats regions. The Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District tweeted: Take immediate steps to protect large animals and livestock.

Late Saturday, flames jumped across highway US 395, which was closed near the town of Doyle, California in Lassen County. The two-lane through highway reopened Sunday, and officials urged motorists to use caution and keep moving along the key north-south route, where flames were still active.

Some eyewitness reports noted that at least six houses had burned in Doyle after Saturdays blaze. The fire was still smoldering on Sunday in Doyle, but in the remote areas on the mountainsides outside of town the fire was still raging. The ecosystem in the area is parched after two consecutive dry winters. Afternoon high temperatures across the region in the last few days have reached the mid-90s to low 100s.

Meanwhile, the US Congress is at best dragging its feet on a new infrastructure bill which is nominally intended to address climate change problems. The current version of the bill offers $15 billion in incentives for electric vehicles. The American Jobs Plan had $85 billion included for public transit, but the Joe Manchin-Bill Cassidy version slashes the amount to $48.5 billion. The only areas where the two bills are roughly on the same level are related to highways and airports, both of which guarantee decades more carbon pollution. And next to nothing is included to help the immediate needs of millions of people suffering through the current effects of climate change.

Capitalist free-market solutions to climate change are a death trap. The only solution to climate change is a planned socialist response directed by the working class, which meets the immediate needs of people across the planet, not the care and nurturing of the bottom lines of billionaires.
TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) -- The 4-H program is a youth-serving organization that allows children in 3rd to 12th grade to complete hands-on projects in various settings. They often focus on health, science, civic engagement, and agriculture.

News 10 spoke with Olivia Branam, a ten-year 4-H member who said the program was life-changing.

Branam shows alpacas, llamas, and beef cattle. This year, she won Grand Champion Alpaca and Llama Showmanship as well as Grand Champion Alpaca Obstacle. She said 4-H taught her patience, leadership, and the importance of networking.

"Especially with the alpacas and llamas, I've learned a lot about patience because they're very timid animals. They don't always like to try new things. So that's helped me in other parts of my life," explained Branam.

Members say that even if you don't own animals, there are ways to get involved.

"The unique thing about Vigo County and the alpaca llama club is that a lot of the animals are leased from other farms. So, the kids don't have to own their animals, they don't have to go to their house. They can go to a sponsoring farm and work with animals," said Branam.

Last year, due to the pandemic, 4-H members were not allowed to stay at the fairgrounds all week.

"The fair is just the experience of being here. So, seeing all the people, getting to talk to people, introducing them to animals they may have never seen before. So that was kind of upsetting about last year," Branam said.

Missing out on the experience was a big deal because, in 4-H, members show their animals at the Vigo County Fair and the Indiana State Fair only.

According to Branam, 4-H has helped grow her passion for animals. In the fall, she will be studying animal science at Purdue University in the hopes of one day becoming a 'large animal veterinarian.'

If you or your child would like to see 4-H members in action, head over to the Vigo County Fairgrounds or sign up here.
The abduction of 2-year-old Guo Xinzhen in eastern China in 1997 sparked a desperate, seemingly never-ending nationwide search by his parents that inspired filmmakers to bring their story to the big screen.

But this week -- 24 years after his disappearance -- the search for Guo finally came to an end.

Police in Liaocheng City, Shandong province, said Monday they had found Guo, now an adult living in neighboring Henan province -- and had reunited him with his parents. Video footage of the reunion on Sunday, released by police, shows the family in tears and embracing tightly, crying out, "We found you, you've come back."

Police said they had arrested two people who confessed to kidnapping and trafficking Guo.

Guo had been abducted near his home by an unfamiliar woman, his parents told police in 1997. Authorities collected blood, DNA samples and other evidence -- but with limited technology at the time, the case remained unsolved, the police said on their official social media account on Tuesday.

The case was never closed, and police say they continued investigating throughout the 24 years.

Guo Xinzhen's father, Guo Gangtang, never stopped looking, either. After his son went missing, he embarked on a search across China, riding a motorbike through nearly all of the vast country's provinces, covering 500,000 kilometers (310,685 miles), according to state-run news agency Xinhua.

He carried little with him except a bag full of fliers, and a flag emblazoned with a picture of his son. He used up all his savings and racked up staggering debts, burning through 10 motorcycles on his long journey, Xinhua reported.

His search gained national attention when it inspired a 2015 movie, "Lost and Love," starring Hong Kong actor Andy Lau.

Gangtang couldn't find his son -- but managed to help track down more than 100 other abducted children and reunite them with their families, according to Xinhua.

This year, authorities hit upon a new lead. Using the latest technology including DNA analysis and facial feature comparison, the Ministry of Public Security found a potential match in Henan -- and when officers tracked the man down, DNA testing confirmed that it was the missing Guo Xinzhen.

Police detained a suspected child trafficker identified only as Hu, and his ex-girlfriend identified as Tang, according to the police's social media post. The two confessed after interrogation, saying Tang had abducted Guo Xinzhen in 1997. She then met up with Hu, and the then-couple took a bus back to Henan, where they sold the child.

It is unclear who Guo Xinzhen was sold to, and no further details of his upbringing were provided by police.

Longstanding problem

Child abduction and trafficking has long been a rampant problem in China, with many parents never finding their missing children. Activists and experts say the problem was exacerbated by China's one-child policy, which has been relaxed in recent years. In May, the government announced it would begin allowing couples to have up to three children.

But for decades, because of the strict policy and China's patriarchal society, it was common for couples to desire a boy -- driving a black market for trafficked infant boys, while girls are often sold to foreign adoptive parents, falsely labeled as orphans.

It's not clear how many children go missing in China every year, though estimates go up to tens of thousands. China is ranked Tier 3 by the US State Department's anti-trafficking agency -- the lowest level, meaning the government "does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking."

Since the turn of the century, the government has stepped up efforts to curb the problem, including launching a national DNA database in 2009 and an online anti-trafficking platform in 2016. These have helped authorities track down more than 4,700 missing children in the past five years, according to Xinhua.

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TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - The pandemic has taken a toll on seemingly everything and education is no exception.

A study by the Indiana Department of Education said it may take over a year for students to recover from this academic loss.

Vigo County is taking an optimistic approach, despite the state's numbers.

In light of the pandemic, we asked parents for their concerns with test scores slipping.

On our Facebook page, Lance Walsh said, "Teach real math and no 'common core' or 'everyday math.' Get back to the basics."

As far as English goes, Robert Byers suggested, "Force them to write everything instead of just typing it all up."

Putting students first is what Vigo Community School communications director Bill Riley says has been the answer to fighting the statewide trend of lower test scores. However, he said they can only do so much.

"I-Learn is just one test. It happens at one moment in time. Using one test to gauge your data is probably poor data collection," said Riley.

State officials say the most important thing they can do is be there to support the students.

"We are here to make sure that our students in Indiana have the foundation, academic foundation necessary to maximize their academic trajectory for life," said Katie Jenner, the Indiana Secretary of Education.

The study conducted by the Indiana Department of Education shows three levels of educational impact from the pandemic.

Those are minor/no impact (suggesting minimal recovery time), moderate (up to one year to recover) and significant (over one year recovery time).

The state's study also said students in grades 3-8 are all in the significant category statewide.

Vigo County has decided to face this challenge head-on.

"We develop lessons that target these specific areas, for their student to kind of catch up, and get over this learning loss."

Riley also told News 10 students have access to summer school and after school programs throughout the school year.
TUPELO, Miss. (WTVA) - Some parents won't have to stress as much over the cost of school supplies this year.

Administrators with the Tupelo Public School District are supplying every student with his or her everyday needed supplies.

Natalie Morton is a mother of four school-age children who will attend three different schools this fall in the school district.

She typically spends between $50 and $100 in supplies per child.

TPSD communications director Gregg Ellis said the school district is providing paper, pens, pencils, highlighters, glue, scissors, crayons, erasers and notebooks.

Morton said this gives them more opportunity to help the teachers a little bit more.

"Frees us up to be able to spoil our teachers a little bit more and show them some appreciation individually."

The less time shopping for school supplies means more time she and her family can be together before the fall semester begins.

Students report to classes on Aug. 4.
JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  A federal judge has ordered that an independent monitor be put into place to oversee Mississippi's embattled mental health care system.

The monitor will be tasked with verifying data submitted by the state analyzing the success of its mental health services. A key measure will be whether the state is preventing unnecessary hospitalizations by allowing people to be treated in their communities.

U.S. District Judge Carlton Reeves ruled on a remedial plan for the Mississippi State Department of Mental Health late Wednesday.

The order comes 10 years after the federal government issued a letter in 2011 saying Mississippi had done too little to provide mental health services outside mental hospitals. The Justice Department sued the state in 2016, and Reeves ruled Mississippi was in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Federal attorneys said during a 2019 trial that mentally ill people were being held in jails because crisis teams did not respond. They said people had been forced to live far from their families because mental health services were not available in their hometowns. They also said people made repeat trips to Mississippi mental hospitals because there was no effective planning for them to make a transition to community services, and the most intensive kinds of services were not being made available.

During a court hearing Monday, federal attorneys said they believe Mississippi is still in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act, while a state attorney said Mississippi has made consistent progress in the years since the lawsuit. Some of those changes include enacting a mobile crisis team, services to help patients transition between levels of care or to avoid the need for hospitalization, supportive housing and peer support services.

In early 2020, Reeves appointed a man with more than 40 years of experience working in mental health care as special master, tasked with helping the Justice Department and the state come up with a plan to chart the future of the mental health system.

Special Master Michael Hogan suggested a monitor be put in place to independently verify the state's data on the services it provides. He said the state did not appear to be collecting information to interpret the success of its services now. The state will be asked to come up with parameters on how this data will be collected, with input from the monitor.

In court Monday, Hogan had suggested having both sides come up with suggestions for who should fill the monitor role, which will ultimately be appointed by the court.

In addition to the monitor, a key piece of Hogan's plan is a clinical review process. The state will be required to sample 100 to 200 patients a year to assure that services are working as intended to address the needs of people with serious mental illness.

Hogan said the review process should provide a meaningful cross-check of the state's data, a suggestion Reeves said he was pleased to see included.

The issues can become so abstract, so esoteric, that the lawyers, the monitors, and even the Court can forget that real families and real people are involved, he wrote. It takes effort to stop and remember that systems and institutions are made up of people whose lived experiences dont fall neatly into categories or statistics.

If we fail to recognize that Mississippians with mental illness have lost their children because of their needless institutionalization, then we have done a disservice to those people and to the Americans with Disabilities Act we are supposed to enforce, he continued.

Department of Justice attorneys have said they believe the monitor should be in place for at least three years, and then one year after that to ensure the programs the state has implemented are sustainable.

The state adamantly has opposed both a monitor and a clinical review process.

The Mississippi State Board of Mental Health was scheduled to meet Thursday morning. It's unclear whether they will discuss Reeves' ruling.
Charleston, WV (25301)

Today

Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High 88F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

A few passing clouds, otherwise generally clear. Low 63F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
Charleston, WV (25301)

Today

Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High 88F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mainly clear. Low 64F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
Charleston, WV (25311)

Today

Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High 86F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mainly clear. Low 61F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
Police blotter is a list of recent arrests compiled from public records in Laramie County. All people listed here are innocent until proven guilty. Anyone listed who has a charge dismissed or is acquitted of the charge may bring or mail a court document proving such to the WTE editor, 702 W. Lincolnway, Cheyenne, WY 82001.
British destroyer HMS Defender in the Black Sea port of Batumi on June 26. Seyran Baroyan/AFP via Getty Images

Russia's military had close encounters with its US and European rivals in June.

The incidents and exercises were messages about Russia's military capabilities, experts said.

See more stories on Insider's business page.

Close encounters between Russia's military and US and European forces in June were signals from Moscow to its rivals about its capabilities and how it was willing to use them, experts said this month.

On June 23, Russian combat aircraft flew over the British destroyer HMS Defender as it conducted an "innocent passage" in the Black Sea near Crimea.

Russia said it fired warning shots and dropped bombs near the warship, which the UK denied, though the British defense minister said Russian jets performed maneuvers that were "neither safe nor professional."

In the same area a day later, Russian jets repeatedly flew close to Dutch frigate HNLMS Evertsen while conducting mock attacks, creating what the Dutch Defense Ministry called "a dangerous situation."

Evertsen's commander said it was in international waters, and that the Russian actions were "irresponsible and unsafe."

Those incidents have "a larger message," said Matthew Rojansky, the director of the Wilson Center's Kennan Institute.

A Russian fighter jet flying past the Dutch frigate HNLMS Evertsen in the Black Sea on June 24. Dutch Defense Ministry

"Moscow is increasingly willing and able to enforce what it sees as territorial and operational red lines, and Crimea and the Black Sea are a major focus of attention," Rojansky said.

Tensions remain high after Russia's 2014 seizure of Crimea from Ukraine, and Moscow has sought to "set the precedent" that it controls its territorial claims there, Rojansky said, citing the 2018 Kerch Strait incident.

"All this traces back to Putin's words in March 2014, when he justified the Russian seizure of Crimea as being about keeping NATO out," Rojansky added.

Russia's military drilled around Crimea throughout the end of June and early July, focusing on attacking the ships of "a notional enemy." The US- and Ukrainian-led exercise Sea Breeze also kicked off in late June and was the largest iteration in its 21-year history, with 32 countries participating.

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Moscow described Sea Breeze as "openly anti-Russian," but US and NATO officials stressed that it was defensive in nature and done in accordance with international law.

"It's one of the most robust Sea Breeze exercises we've conducted to date, and we're proud of that," the chief Pentagon spokesperson, John Kirby, said on July 6.

Aircraft from HMS Queen Elizabeth during an exercise in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea in June 2021. British Royal Navy

The Black Sea incidents also overlapped with Russian and British-led exercises in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea.

British aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, sailing with US F-35B fighter jets aboard, conducted exercises and combat operations against ISIS during the final days of June.

US and British jets found themselves in a "cat and mouse" game with Russia, which angled to keep an eye on them as Russian warships and aircraft conducted reconnaissance and air-defense drills.

Their proximity was not a coincidence, said Michael Kofman, the research program director in the Russia Studies Program at CNA.

Russia has deployed more forces to its improved military facilities in Syria, while the UK is putting HMS Queen Elizabeth, its newest carrier, through real-world testing during its maiden deployment.

"A force-on-force interaction that's not planned is probably one of the best ways to generate these kind of lessons and experience for the Royal Navy," Kofman said on a recent podcast. He added that Russia used the British deployment as an opportunity to "train strike missions against NATO ships."

'Ready and present'

The Russian guided-missile cruiser Varyag. Vadim Savitsky\TASS via Getty Images

Mid-June also saw a major Russian exercise in the central Pacific Ocean, with warships and aircraft conducting what Russian officials called their largest exercise there since the Cold War.

Much of their activity was hundreds of miles from Hawaii, but US officials said some Russian ships came within 30 nautical miles of the islands.

Russian long-range-bomber operations during the exercise twice prompted US F-22 fighters to scramble for potential intercepts, though US officials said Russian aircraft never came close to Hawaii. (US and Russian aircraft regularly intercept each other over the Pacific.)

The exercise was "unprecedented" in its size and its distance from Russia, said Carl Shuster, a retired US Navy captain who was director of operations at US Pacific Command's Joint Intelligence Center in the 1990s.

"The Soviet Navy never conducted exercises this close to the Hawaiian Islands," Shuster said.

"The Russian political statement was, 'We've returned as a Pacific maritime power and can reach your territory just as you are reaching ours in the Black Sea,'" Shuster added. "The target audience of course was the Russian people and the American leadership."

The Russian destroyer Marshal Shaposhnikov, foreground, with US guided-missile cruiser USS Chosin in the Yellow Sea on March 31, 2006. US Navy/PT Mate 2nd Class Nathanael T. Miller

The Pacific exercise - which took place around the Biden-Putin summit in Switzerland - was also a demonstration of military capability, featuring what Moscow called "the tasks of detecting, countering and delivering missile strikes against an aircraft carrier strike group."

The ships involved included the guided-missile cruiser Varyag, Russia's Pacific Fleet flagship, and the destroyer Marshal Shaposhnikov, which carries Kalibr missiles, a weapon that worries US commanders and "presented the potential military threat that gave the message credibility," Shuster said.

US military forces "remain ready and present in the Indo-Pacific," said Lt. Col. Martin Meiners, a Pentagon spokesperson. He called it the US's "priority theater."

The Russian warships that conducted the Pacific exercise returned to port earlier this month, but encounters between Russian and NATO forces in the Black Sea and the Pacific have continued. Russian officials continue to call the HMS Defender incident a "provocation" and warn about future run-ins.

"Russia will continue to foil such actions using the harshest methods, regardless of the nationality of the violator," Mikhail Popov, the deputy secretary of Russia's Security Council, said this week.

Read the original article on Business Insider
JERUSALEM (AP)  The owner of Israel's Beitar Jerusalem soccer club said Thursday that he called off a friendly match with international powerhouse Barcelona over its refusal to hold the event in contested Jerusalem.

Israel captured east Jerusalem in the 1967 war, annexed it in a move not recognized internationally, and considers the entire city its capital. The Palestinians seek east Jerusalem as the capital of their future state, and the city's status is one of the thorniest issues in the decades-long conflict.

Beitar Jerusalem owner Moshe Hogeg said he was forced to cancel the planned Aug. 4 match with great sadness because he refused to give in to what he said was a political demand.

After I received the contract to sign and discovered the unequivocal demand that the game not take place in the capital city, Jerusalem, and several other demands that I didnt like, I slept with a heavy heart, thought a lot and decided that above all else I am a proud Jew and Israeli, Hogeg wrote on Facebook. I cannot betray Jerusalem."

Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion expressed support for the decision, saying teams that intend to boycott Jerusalem should be barred from Israel altogether.

Jerusalem is the capital of the state of Israel and the decision to boycott it is not a professional, sporting or educational decision, he said in a statement.

Barcelona said it never officially announced the match would take place.

Beitar Jerusalem is the only major Israeli soccer club to have never signed an Arab player, and its hard-core fans have a history of racist chants.

During the teams 2013 season, a move to bring in two Muslim players from Chechnya badly misfired. Beitars fan group known as La Familia led a boycott that famously left the stadium empty during a home match, and several fans were charged with torching the teams offices while the club was nearly relegated to the second division as its season fell apart.

Hogeg, who purchased the team in 2018, has vowed to combat racism and sideline the club's anti-Arab fans.

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Earlier this month the Palestinian Football Association sent a letter of protest to Barcelona over the planned game in Jerusalem.

Sami Abou Shehadeh, a Balad party lawmaker in the Israeli parliament, had also petitioned Barcelona to cancel the game, saying Beitar represents the most extremist, racist and fascist segments of Israeli society. Palestinian soccer clubs had also written to Barcelona urging it not to play in Jerusalem.

Argentina canceled a World Cup warmup match with Israel in 2018 following pro-Palestinian protests. Some Israeli officials accused Lionel Messi and his teammates of caving to terrorism.

The international soccer federation later imposed a year-long ban on Jibril Rajoub, the head of Palestinian soccer, for allegedly inciting fans against Argentina. Rajoub called the ban biased and absurd.

FIFA said Rajoub had incited hatred and violence by calling on soccer fans to target the Argentinian Football Association and burn jerseys and pictures of Lionel Messi.

Argentina Foreign Minister Jorge Faurie said at the time players felt totally attacked, violated after images emerged of the teams white and sky-blue striped jerseys stained with red paint resembling blood.
Jul. 15Police have arrested a man suspected of being an accomplice in the kidnapping and death of a Las Vegas, N.M., woman nine years ago.

Online records for San Miguel County jail show Anselmo "Chemo" Richard Ortiz was booked into the facility at 11:07 p.m. Tuesday. According to jail records, Ortiz is being charged with kidnapping and theft of a motor vehicle.

Law enforcement officials earlier this week said they believe he played a role in the kidnapping and death of Cindy "Tig" Rivera, who was 19 when she disappeared from a home on Peggy Lane in June 2012.

Authorities believed the young mother of two was abducted and killed. But her body was never recovered, and no one was charged in the case for years.

On Friday, New Mexico State Police, following a nine-year investigation, obtained an arrest warrant for Ortiz, 37. They said they believe he helped Rivera's ex-husband, Christopher Trujillo, commit the crime.

Trujillo took his own life in La Cienega in May after leaving incriminating evidence on his phone, according to the arrest warrant.

In one of those recorded conversations, Trujillo said, "I killed my ex-wife, Cindy Rivera, and buried her in the national forest. I'm going to tell them Chemo killed her and buried her."

Ortiz was convicted of drug trafficking charges after Rivera's disappearance and was imprisoned from 2013 to 2019. After his release, he began working for Trujillo at All American Towing in Las Vegas.

A state police spokesman wrote in an email Monday investigators believe Rivera was killed by Trujillo, "based on the totality of the evidence, including statements made by Christopher Trujillo."

The spokesman, Office Dusty Francisco, did not respond to an email Wednesday requesting more information on the case.
Cuban exiles rally at Versailles restaurant in Miami's Little Havana in support of protesters in Cuba as thousands of Cubans took to the streets in rare protests Sunday, July 11, 2021, to complain about a lack of freedom and a worsening economic situation.

Stunned and shaken by islandwide street protests Sunday, Cuba's communist regime sought on Monday to deflect responsibility for the causes of political "dissatisfaction" while Cuban Americans hoped this round of unrest will lead to a long-desired change in government.

"Let's hope this is finally the moment so many of us have been waiting for," said Luis Obregon of Royal Palm Beach, Florida. "I'm optimistic."

More: Anti-government protests in Cuba spark Florida solidarity rallies

Obregon said he drove from his home to Miami's Little Havana on Sunday to rally in support of demonstrators in Cuba.

"You can only step on people for so long before they defend themselves," said Obregon, who came to the United States in 1985. "People had nothing to eat, no way to lead a better life when I was there and nothing has changed. It's time for a change. Been time."

COVID-19, food and power shortages triggered Cuba unrest

That was a common sentiment expressed across Cuba  and Florida  Sunday as thousands of people took to the streets in the Caribbean nation to demand change. The spark was a weekend of bad news in Cuba's failing battle against COVID-19  which included record numbers of infections and deaths.

Cuban exiles rally at Versailles Restaurant in Miami's Little Havana in support of protesters in Cuba as thousands of Cubans took to the streets in rare protests Sunday, July 11, 2021, to complain about a lack of freedom and a worsening economic situation.

In addition, the island nation's 11 million people have been suffering through daily, prolonged power outages amid a summer heat wave. And long-standing shortages for everything from food to medications.

More: Player on Cuban baseball team defects days before Olympics qualifying tournament that will be held in West Palm Beach, Port St. Lucie

Across Cuba, protesters chanted "Libertad", Spanish for "freedom," and Patria y vida  a play on Patria o muerte, "Fatherland or death"  the closing exclamatory for the late Cuban dictator Fidel Castro's speeches.

The Patria y vida chant has become the battle cry for many younger Cubans demanding change on the island. It was popularized in a protest song recorded by a group of popular musicians in Cuba led by Orishas band rapper Yotuel Romero.

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See video of Orishas protest song here

The song's lyrics condemn a history of repression on the island: We are artists; we are sensitivity, the true story, not the badly told one. We are the dignity of a people trampled at gunpoint and by words that still mean nothing.

Those themes were megaphoned in solidarity rallies across Florida on Sunday.

In West Palm Beach on Sunday, Cuban exiles gathered for a solidarity demonstration on the corner of Military Trail and Forest Hill Boulevard. They waved Cuban flags before the passing traffic and hoisted signs that read Cubans are dying!

More: Point of View: An appeal for Cubans  and for the US

At Tropical Bakery, a West Palm Beach Cuban institution for nearly 32 years, server Lauren Camacho, 23, said Monday she was monitoring the protests on the island with particular anxiety. Most of her immediate family remains in her native Villa Clara province, which she left three years ago to seek out a better life in Palm Beach County.

People march in the streets and wave Cuban flags during a protest in solidarity with thousands of Cubans who took to the streets in various locations in Cuba, in one of the largest protests to take place on the island, at Versailles Cuban restaurant off 8th Street in the Little Havana neighborhood of Miami, on Sunday, July 11, 2021. (Daniel A. Varela/Miami Herald via AP)

My husband found out his brother was arrested for protesting in the street. Nobody knows where he is. Theyve made him disappear, says Camacho, who lives here with her husband and their 8-month-old daughter.

The reports she hears from her mother, father, brothers and other relatives on the island paint a grim picture of Cuba, she says.

Things are horribly difficult in our Cuba. Children are convulsing at hospitals because there are no resources," she added. "People are dying of common flus and other illnesses. Theres no food. The only ones that have food are those in power. There are daily power outages."

She said the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed a lot of failures by "those in power" that the population is paying dearly for right now.

Some might blame it on the coronavirus but this was happening way before that," she said. "Its just coming to light now.

Others worried that the government would violently repress the protests.

Im worried about bloodshed, but Im cautiously optimistic. One would hope that goodness and democracy will ultimately prevail, says Maribel Alvarez, the Cuban-born president of Altima International, a West Palm Beach public relations firm with a solid Palm Beach clientele. These people have had enough violence, repression, lack of basic medical and the complete disregard for the most fundamental human rights.

Cuba's communist leadership blames U.S. embargo

In Havana, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel on Monday held a choreographed press conference with state media representatives to address national frustrations he said were being manipulated by "social media influencers" and "YouTubers" to undermine the revolution.

Diaz-Canel sat at a rectangular conference table with other officials from government and industry where they discussed efforts to alleviate electric blackouts, the dearth of medications, food shortages and the rise in COVID-19 infections and deaths.

Diaz-Canel, who assumed the reins of the 61-year-old communist revolution when Raul Castro retired, blamed the country's woes on the U.S. economic embargo.

"All those issues that are present in our society as sources of dissatisfaction, what is their origin? What is the cause of them? It's the blockade," he said.

Frustrating for some exiles to watch Cuba protests from afar

Mario Chaoui, 42, of Cape Coral, was born in Cuba and lived there until he defected from the Cuban national baseball team in 2000, he said.

One of his cousins was jailed after participating in Havana protests, he said.

They just got fed up, he said of the Cuban people. They are fighting literally with rocks and sticks.

Its frustrating to watch from afar as Cuban people suffer without food or medicine. There is no food around even if you have the money to buy it, he said.

Right now, we cannot go there and do anything. What we can do is what I am doing. Were taking to the streets here, putting the Cuban flag out there, sharing, and making sure our voices are heard.

Gloria Jordan, 53, chef-owner of La Trattoria Cafe Napoli in Fort Myers, left Cuba as a young adult but her family remains in Cuba. She led culinary and cultural trips to Cuba until the pandemic stopped them in 2020.

Its a pressure cooker and it exploded because it has to explode, she said. Its a scary time. We dont know how its going to end. But dont forget, they started the revolution just like that.

Cubans are hungry, and they need food in their stomachs.

Several friends have asked her, what can I do for Cuba?

Right now, nothing, she said. Any small charities or foundations or groups, those people cannot do anything. I want to hear about the Red Cross, someone neutral, or a big huge organization like the United Nations. Big organizations are the only ones I can see helping.

Just to send her family money, as she does each month to help them with basic expenses like food and medicine, she pays about $60 in fees for every $100 sent.

Emotional support, thats all I can do for family and just share, share, share, she said. The more you share the more people can understand whats going on in Cuba. That problem has to only be resolved by the Cuban people.

You know what has to happen there? The police, the army would have to say, Im not doing it, she said.

Its one of those places that you cant find the exit.

Cuban Americans says focus should be on Cuban people

To see these images of the protest makes me very proud. My heart goes out to the Cuban people, who have gone into the streets protesting for the first time in more than 60 years. I hope it brings an end to this dictatorship, says Frank Steinhart, a former network television producer who is production manager at Stubbs and Wootton shoe company in Palm Beach. Born in Cuba, he left the island in 1960, when he was 6 months old.

West Palm Beach Cuban American artist Rolando Chang Barrero, who has been socially and politically involved in local and world causes, believes its time to move beyond political differences and focus on the needs of the Cuban people.

Im calling for unity among all groups. We need to check our egos at the door. This is what we've been waiting for in Cuba, for the Cuban people to revolt, and we have to stand in solidarity with them, says Chang Barrero, who owns The Box Gallery in West Palm Beach.

Theres common ground to build upon, he says.

What we have in common is that we want a free Cuba. The movement is coming. The revolution is coming from the inside  and it will be televised and on social media, he says, offering a twist on a Gil Scott-Heron classic. We have to listen to them, not tell them what they need.

@afins@pbpost.com

lbalmaseda@pbpost.com

jmilian@pbpost.com

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Cuba protests cheered by Florida exiles who call for a 'revolution'
A Wyoming bar reportedly sold T-shirts advocating for violence against members of the LGBTQ community.

The owner of the bar told a local paper that the shirts were sold out and he wouldn't be reordering them.

The controversy comes as Wyoming lawmakers consider a state hate crime law and expanded protections.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

A local bar in Cheyenne, Wyoming, sparked outrage across the state after selling homophobic T-shirts advocating for violence against people with AIDS, according to local news reports and a statewide advocacy group.

The T-shirt depicts a man in biker attire pointing a gun.

"In Wyoming, we have a cure for AIDS," it reads. "We shoot fin' f."

Wyoming Equality, an LGBTQ advocacy group, posted about the shirts on Facebook earlier this week, noting the organization had asked the establishment to pull the shirts from circulation, and management had declined.

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"We hoped that they would choose to stop selling them when they realized the harm it did to the LGBTQ community and those living with AIDS."

The advocacy group chose not to share the name of the bar out of fear of generating more business for the business.

Video: Experts explain what it takes for something to be labeled a hate crime

However, Ray Bereziuk, the owner of The Eagles Nest, the bar in Cheyenne, told The Cheyenne Post on Monday that the homophobic shirts were "sold out" and no longer available. Bereziuk told the outlet he would not be reordering the shirts, noting that he is "in the bar business, not the apparel business."

The bar's voicemail box was full and could not be reached for comment.

The shirts sparked backlash on social media following Wyoming Equality's initial post.

Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon commented on the matter, telling the Casper-Star Tribune that it was "incredibly disheartening to learn that any business would offer a product for sale with a message like this."

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"This hurtful rhetoric is not reflective of our state's values and does nothing but promote hate and division," he added.

The bar is located less than an hour from Laramie, Wyoming, where gay college student Matthew Shephard died after he was brutally beaten in a homophobic attack in 1998. His death launched protests nationwide and led to the creation of The Matthew Shepard Foundation, which works to amplify Shepard's story and address hate through local, regional, and national outreach.

The T-shirt controversy comes one month after Wyoming state legislators met to discuss hate crime legislation, according to the Tribune. The Joint Judiciary Committee voted to pursue expanded hate crime protections, the outlet reported, after hearing emotional testimony from members of the LGBTQ community.

Sara Burlingame, executive director of Wyoming Equality, told NBC News that the bar's T-shirts caused some state lawmakers to better understand the need for a hate crime law in the state, which she said has a reputation for being unsafe for the LGBTQ community.

"As we make this pitch to the global community to come and invest in us, there's a piece of us that is just so cankering and that we refuse to look at, we refuse to address - and it's not going to go away," Burlingame told the outlet.

Read the original article on Insider
(REUTERS)

REVOLUT, the self-described financial superapp, today raised $800 million from investors in a deal that makes it the most valuable fintech business in Britain with a supposed worth of $33 billion.

Thats a fairly astonishing valuation for a business that has only just turned profitable, does not yet have a banking licence and was worth around $5 billion just a year ago.

The deal will be seen as a boon to Londons status as a tech centre, a status that has wobbled lately with big deals going to New York and certain floats, notably of Deliveroo, flopping.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak offered praise: We want to see even more great British Fintech success stories like Revolut.

The money was raised from Softbank and Tiger Global who have less than 5% between them. Other investors include Ribbit Capital, TCV, Balderton Capital, Index Ventures.

The company declined to say what management, including founder Nikolay Storonsky own, raising questions about disclosure and openness.

A spokeswoman said no one had ever asked.

Revolut does currency exchange, stock trading, Apple Pay and other services  it has 16 million customers worldwide.

Chief Financial Officer Mikko Salavaara said the raised money would be spent on marketing and product development. The fundraiser does not affect the timeline for a listing he said, which seems unlikely to be this year.

Eventually we will be a public company, but there are no immediate plans to list, he added. The environment for raising funds is very strong and we had investor interest.

Vlad Yatsenko and Nikolay Storonsky (Revolut)

Nikolay Storonsky, Founder & CEO of Revolut said, SoftBank and Tiger Globals investments are an endorsement of our mission to create a global financial superapp that enables customers to manage all their financial needs through a single platform. This funding round makes Revolut the UKs most valuable fintech, demonstrating investors confidence that we can deliver products that raise the bar for customers expectations across the whole financial services industry.

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He founded the business in 2015 after becoming frustrated at what he was paying in fees on transactions while travelling.

At $33 billion, Revolut is valued more highly than NatWest. Its losses last year widened from 107 million to 168 million.

Scott Shleifer at Tiger Global said: We believe Revoluts superior customer experience and focus on rapid product development put the company in a strong position to continue scaling in both existing and new geographies.

Read More

Drug companies fined 260m for colluding to overcharge the NHS

Pay jumps as economy re-opens for business

FTSE 100 set to fall as UK employers suffer Covid workforce shortages
Police searched the hotel of Team Bahrain Victorious after stage 17 of the Tour de France on Wednesday night in Pau, the team has announced.

Riders rooms and the team bus were searched, while the team was required to provide copies of all training files.

The teams technical director Vladimir Miholjevic said: Following stage 17, we were greeted by several French police officers. We were not given a warrant to read through, but the team complied with all the officers requests.

This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it.

We are committed to (the) highest level of professionalism and adherence to all regulatory requirements and will always be cooperating in a professional manner. The process had impacted our riders; recovery and meal planning and as a professional team, the wellbeing of our team is a key priority.

The team will continue in the race, with Thursdays stage 18 to Luz Ardiden the last of the mountain stages.

Bahrain Victorious have enjoyed a successful Tour so far despite the loss of their main general classification hope Jack Haig in a crash on stage three.

Wout Poels leads the king of the mountains classification in the Tour (Daniel Cole/AP)

They collected back-to-back wins on stages seven and eight through Matej Mohoric and Dylan Teuns, while Wout Poels leads the king of the mountains classification and sprinter Sonny Colbrelli, twice in the top three on mountain stages, sits third in the points classification.

Pello Bilbao is the best placed of the teams riders overall, sitting 10th, almost 13 minutes off Tadej Pogacar in the yellow jersey.

Their Briton Fred Wright, 22, is the youngest rider in this years Tour.
DRI-led study finds a 17.7 percent rise in COVID-19 cases after a prolonged 2020 wildfire smoke event in Reno, Nev.

Wildfire smoke may greatly increase susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, according to new research from the Center for Genomic Medicine at the Desert Research Institute, Washoe County Health District, and Renown Health in Reno, Nev. Credit: U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Wildfire smoke may greatly increase susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, according to new research from the Center for Genomic Medicine at the Desert Research Institute, Washoe County Health District, and Renown Health in Reno, Nev. Credit: U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Wildfire smoke may greatly increase susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, according to new research from the Center for Genomic Medicine at the Desert Research Institute, Washoe County Health District, and Renown Health in Reno, Nev. Credit: Desert Research Institute.

Wildfire smoke may greatly increase susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, according to new research from the Center for Genomic Medicine at the Desert Research Institute, Washoe County Health District, and Renown Health in Reno, Nev. Credit: Desert Research Institute.

Reno, Nev., July 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wildfire smoke may greatly increase susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, according to new research from the Center for Genomic Medicine at the Desert Research Institute (DRI), Washoe County Health District (WCHD), and Renown Health (Renown) in Reno, Nev.

In a study published earlier this week in the Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology, the DRI-led research team set out to examine whether smoke from 2020 wildfires in the Western U.S. was associated with an increase in SARS-CoV-2 infections in Reno.

To explore this, the study team used models to analyze the relationship between fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) from wildfire smoke and SARS-CoV-2 test positivity rate data from Renown Health, a large, integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. According to their results, PM 2.5 from wildfire smoke was responsible for a 17.7 percent increase in the number of COVID-19 cases that occurred during a period of prolonged smoke that took place between Aug. 16 and Oct. 10, 2020.

Our results showed a substantial increase in the COVID-19 positivity rate in Reno during a time when we were affected by heavy wildfire smoke from California wildfires, said Daniel Kiser, M.S., co-lead author of the study and assistant research scientist of data science at DRI. This is important to be aware of as we are already confronting heavy wildfire smoke from the Beckwourth Complex fire and with COVID-19 cases again rising in Nevada and other parts of the Western U.S.

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Reno, located in Washoe County (population 450,000) of northern Nevada, was exposed to higher concentrations of PM2.5 for longer periods of time in 2020 than other nearby metropolitan areas, including San Francisco. Reno experienced 43 days of elevated PM2.5 during the study period, as opposed to 26 days in the San Francisco Bay Area.

We had a unique situation here in Reno last year where we were exposed to wildfire smoke more often than many other areas, including the Bay Area, said Gai Elhanan, M.D., co-lead author of the study and associate research scientist of computer science at DRI. We are located in an intermountain valley that restricts the dispersion of pollutants and possibly increases the magnitude of exposure, which makes it even more important for us to understand smoke impacts on human health.

Kisers and Elhanans new research builds upon past work of studies in San Francisco and Orange County by controlling for additional variables such as the general prevalence of the virus, air temperature, and the number of tests administered, in a location that was heavily impacted by wildfire smoke.

We believe that our study greatly strengthens the evidence that wildfire smoke can enhance the spread of SARS-CoV-2, said Elhanan. We would love public health officials across the U.S. to be a lot more aware of this because there are things we can do in terms of public preparedness in the community to allow people to escape smoke during wildfire events.

More information:

Additional study authors include William Metcalf (DRI), Brendan Schnieder (WCHD), and Joseph Grzymski, a corresponding author (DRI/Renown). This research was funded by Renown Health and the Nevada Governors Office of Economic Development Coronavirus Relief Fund.

The full text of the study, SARS-CoV-2 test positivity rate in Reno, Nevada: association with PM2.5 during the 2020 wildfire smoke events in the western United States, is available from the Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41370-021-00366-w

###

About DRI

The Desert Research Institute (DRI) is a recognized world leader in basic and applied environmental research. Committed to scientific excellence and integrity, DRI faculty, students who work alongside them, and staff have developed scientific knowledge and innovative technologies in research projects around the globe. Since 1959, DRIs research has advanced scientific knowledge on topics ranging from humans impact on the environment to the environments impact on humans. DRIs impactful science and inspiring solutions support Nevadas diverse economy, provide science-based educational opportunities, and inform policymakers, business leaders, and community members. With campuses in Las Vegas and Reno, DRI serves as the non-profit research arm of the Nevada System of Higher Education. For more information, please visit www.dri.edu.

About Renown Health

Renown Health is the regions largest, local not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a childrens hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the regions largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the worlds largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project. For more information, visit renown.org.

About Washoe County Health District Air Quality Management Division -

The Air Quality Management Division (AQMD) implements clean air solutions that protect the quality of life for the citizens of Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County through community partnerships along with programs and services such as air monitoring, permitting and compliance, planning, and public education. To learn more, please visit OurCleanAir.com.

Attachments

CONTACT: Detra Page Desert Research Institute 702-591-3786 detra.page@dri.edu




Smoke rises from a controlled burn off Meadowbrook Road Thursday, June 24, 2021. The fire was part of efforts by the Yakama Nation and Yakima County Fire District 5 to reduce the risk of wildfire during the Independence Day holiday. (Donald W. Meyers/Yakima Herald-Republic)
Don Davis Jr.

Age: Unavailable

Community of residence: Yakima

Occupation: Senior pastor of Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Yakima

Education: Bachelor of arts in social and human services from The Evergreen State College; state certified chemical dependency specialist; and registered counselor

Community service: Department of Justice monitoring team member; co-chairperson for King County Dual Diagnosis/Co-occurring Disorders workgroup; board liaison for King County Mental Health Advisory Board; Yakima Police Department de-escalation and implicit bias training.

Previous elected office: Yakima school board member since 2016, Washington Association of School District Administrators board member, Seattle Community College Social and Human Services Advisory Board member, King County Mental Health/Substance Abuse Advisory Board member
Native American women and girls know their heritage puts them at risk. They tell each other to take care. They all know it is easy for someone to take them and kill them and get away with it.

Preyed upon by attackers, rapists and killers familiar with the empty reaches of reservations, the patchwork of jurisdictions, the disregard of some and the silence of others, they are in danger just for being a Native woman or girl.

The statistics are grim.

A report from the National Institute of Justice found that more than four out of five Native American women have experienced violence in their lives. In 2016, the Centers for Disease Control reported that homicide is the third leading cause of death among Native American women between the ages of 10 and 24. The Department of Justice has reported Native American women are 10 times more likely to be murdered than other Americans.

On the 1.3-million-acre Yakama Reservation, women have passed down stories from as far back as the mid-1800s of rape and murder by miners, by soldiers, by other outsiders. The passage of time does not diminish the terror of these assaults, which continue today.

No one knows exactly how many Native girls and women have gone missing on or near the Yakama reservation.
Greensboro, NC (27407)

Today

A steady rain this morning. Showers continuing this afternoon. High around 75F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a half an inch..

Tonight

Showers early, then cloudy overnight. Low 64F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Greensboro, NC (27407)

Today

A steady rain this morning. Showers continuing this afternoon. High around 75F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall possibly over one inch..

Tonight

Cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 64F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
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Sens. John Thune, a Republican from South Dakota, and Mark Kelly, a Democrat from Arizona, introduced legislation in June that would have stopped the Office of Budget and Management, also known as the OMB, from making the change.

The fact that the OMB will not be pursuing the change at this time will ensure that essential community services, funded by various federal agencies which consider population size and MSA status, will continue into the foreseeable future," said Bismarck Mayor Steve Bakken. We are very grateful the current threshold will remain in place at 50,000 people."

Federal statisticians who originally had recommended the change said it was long overdue, given that the U.S. population has more than doubled since the 50,000-person threshold was introduced in 1950. Back then, about half of U.S. residents lived in metros; now, 86% do.

The committee of federal statisticians that made the recommendation said Tuesday that it would now support putting it on hold pending additional research and outreach to municipalities and others.

Updates to these standards are considered every decade. Even though the proposal was made during the Trump administration, and put on hold in the Biden administration, statisticians say any changes to the standards aren't based on politics.
It wasnt actually a political demonstration, the families were simply requesting to see us, he said. His wife chanted State of freedom, no political arrests!"

Awawdeh said he and a colleague arrived at the sit-in and began filming. When a security officer told them to stop filming they identified themselves as journalists but complied with the request, he said. Then riot police gathered in front of the station and an officer ordered everyone to leave within 10 minutes.

About three minutes later, the attack began.

Multiple witnesses said the police attacked everyone on the street  activists, journalists and observers  firing pepper spray, beating them with batons and pulling women by their hair.

Diala Ayesh, a human rights lawyer who was there as an observer, said she was handcuffed and dragged into the police station, and that some of the policemen harassed her and struck her on sensitive places on her body. She was among at least 15 people who were detained.

Once inside, Awawdeh and another man were dragged into a small room and severely beaten with batons. I just kept telling them I'm a journalist, Awawdeh said. I told them from the moment I arrived that I was a journalist.
New Delhi: In a major supervisory action, the Reserve Bank on Wednesday indefinitely barred the US-based Mastercard from issuing new credit, debit and prepaid cards with effect from July 22 for its failure to comply with data storage norms.

Mastercard, a major card issuing entity in the country, is the third company to have been barred by RBI from acquiring new customers after American Express Banking Corp and Diners Club International over data storage issue.

"The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has today imposed restrictions on Mastercard Asia/Pacific Pte. Ltd. (Mastercard) from on-boarding new domestic customers (debit, credit or prepaid) onto its card network from July 22, 2021," the central bank said in a statement.

The RBI, however, clarified that its supervisory action will not impact the services of the existing customers of Mastercard in the country.

Announcing the ban on Mastercard, RBI said, "notwithstanding lapse of considerable time and adequate opportunities being given, the entity has been found to be non-compliant with the directions on Storage of Payment System Data".

Mastercard is a payment system operator authorised to operate a card network in the country under the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007 (PSS Act).

In terms of RBI's circular on Storage of Payment System Data on April 6, 2018, all system providers were directed to ensure that within a period of six months the entire data relating to payment systems is stored only in India. Also Read: Petrol, Diesel Prices Today, July 15, 2021: Fuel prices hiked after 2 days of pause, check rates in your city

They were also required to report compliance to RBI and submit a board-approved System Audit Report conducted by a CERT-In empanelled auditor within specified timelines. Also Read: India Post Payments Bank alert! IPPB to revise banking fees for select services from August 1
New Delhi: The most-revered chariot festival of Puri town, dedicated to Lord Jagannath - The Jagannath Rath Yatra commenced this year amid strict COVID protocol on July 12. Much like last year, this time around too administration has taken caution to ensure safety measures are in place.

LORD JAGANNATH PURI RATH YATRA 2021:

It is a 15-day long affair that is attended by lakhs of devotees who throng the temple town of Puri, Odisha to seek the blessings of the Lord. However, due to the second wave of deadly novel coronavirus pandemic, the temple is not open for devotees.

There are various legends and beliefs associated with the origin of the idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra (brother), and Devi Subhadra (sister). The idols of the god inside the Puri temple are of a particular type and are not made out of any metal or stone. Rather, Neem wood is used to carve the idols beautifully.

LEGEND BEHIND LORD JAGANNATH'S UNFINISHED IDOLS:

The idols of Lord Jagannath depict the Lord embodying features of a large, square-shaped head, big eyes, and unfinished limbs. There are several legends related to the origin of how the lord came to reside at the Puri temple in Bhubaneswar.

One of the popular stories which is associated with it reveals why the hands and limbs of the lord's idols are unfinished.

It is believed that once there was a King named Indradyumna, who wanted to build a temple of god Vishnu but wasn't certain about the shape of the idol that would represent the Lord. He was then asked by Lord Brahma to meditate and pray to Lord Vishnu himself as to what form would he like to embody.

After deep meditation, God appeared in his dream and spoke about a particular floating wood log near Bankamuhana in Puri and his image would be made out of that log. After this dream, Indradyumna rushed to the spot and found the wooden log. However, to his surprise, he couldn't get his artists to make the idols out of it  no matter what.

The tools of the artisans broke every time when they tried to cut the log. This was the point when Ananta Maharana (carpenter Bishwakarma/Vishwakarma) appeared and offered to help.

However, Bishwakarma had one condition.

He said that he shouldn't be disturbed while carving out the idol until it is finished. So, for two weeks, he employed himself in the divine task in locked podium without anyone's interruption. But after two weeks, suddenly the sound of work stopped coming from inside the podium to which the wife of Indradyumna  Gundicha said that they must go in and check if he is fine.

Although the King didn't want it, he had no option but to enter inside. However, to their surprise, when they got in, they found no carpenter and only unfinished idols. He immediately repented his act. But a divine voice  probably of Lord Vishnu himself, told the King that he shouldn't regret and install the unfinished idols as it is and Lord shall make himself visible to the devotees in this form.

Ever since, the idols of Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra are worshipped in unfinished form.

In the month of Asadha (June or July), the idols are brought out onto the Bada Danda and travel all the way to the Shri Gundicha Temple in huge chariots. Devotees in lakhs throng the streets to get a glimpse of the lord and seek their blessings.

The temple town of Puri is adorned beautifully during this festive time as thousands of devotees turn out to visit the divine abode of the lord and seek the blessings of god Jagannath, Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.

Jai Jagannatha!
New Delhi: Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday (July 15) ruled out any plans for the reopening of schools in the city. Though several states, including Haryana has ordered for the reopening of schools, Chief Minister Kejriwal remains skeptical, as per a PTI report.

"... We are seeing trends internationally that there will be a third wave of COVID-19. So, until the vaccination process is complete we would not like to take risk with children. So there aren't any plans to reopen schools as of now," Kejriwal said during a media interaction.

Delhi recorded around 72 new COVID-19 cases, one death and a positivity rate of 0.10 per cent over the past 24 hours, as per the state health bulletin on Thursday. While the number of active cases in the city stands at 671.

The daily COVID case counts in the national capital have remained below the 100 mark for about two weeks now, prompting the government to ease restrictions put in place in the wake of the deadly second wave of infections.

Over 91 lakh doses of Covid vaccine have been administered in Delhi so far.

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New Delhi: Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) is likely to release the results of Maharashtra SSC Board results 2021 soon. Once the results are out, students can check their results on the official websites at mahresult.nic.in and mahahsscboard.in.

The MSBSHSE is yet to officially announce the date of the Class 10 result.

Earlier, the School Education Minister Varsha Gaikwad in an interview had said that the Maharashtra Class 10th result would be declared by July 15, NDTV reported. The result is expected this week.

As per media reports, the preparation of SSC results is at the final stage. Around 15 lakh students had registered for Maharashtra SSC exams this year. However, the Maharashtra government had scrapped the SSC board exams due to the prevailing COVID-19 situation.

The results will follow the evaluation criteria which will mark students on the basis of their performance in Class 9 and Class 10. Out of the total 100 marks, 50 marks weightage will be given to Class 9 results, thirty marks will be calculated from year-long internal assessments of Class 10 and 20 marks weightage will be given to practical or assignments.

To keep a tab on the Maharashtra SSC Board results, students are recommended to visit the official website of the state board.

How to check Maharashtra SSC Board results 2021:

1. Visit the official Maharashtra results website at maharashtraeducation.com

2: On the homepage, click on the link Maharashtra Class 10 results 2021

3: You will be taken to a new page. Enter your credentials and log in.

4. Maharashtra SSC Class 10 result will be displayed on your screen.

5. Download and take a printout of the results for future reference.

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New Delhi: A famous Instagram (IG) influencer Sofia Cheung, 32, met with a tragic end after falling off a waterfall while taking a selfie. According to a report in The Sun, Cheung was out on a trip to Ha Pak Lai, a scenic nature park, with her friends, when this unfortunate incident took place.

According to a report in The Sun, Sofia Cheung lost her balance as she was standing on the edge of the waterfall and tumbled into the 16ft-deep pool below. Soon, her friends called the emergency and she was rushed to a Hong Kong hospital. However, she was declared dead, reportedly.

Sofia Cheung is famous on Instagram and has over 17.2k followers. She was an adventurous influencer and loved hiking, kayaking, outdoor activities, photography as described in her IG bio.

She had often shared pictures of her daredevil stunts on social media and was famous for it.

Her last post on Instagram is captioned: Better days are coming. They are called: Saturday and Sunday

After the news of her demise broke online, several of her fans dropped 'rest in peace' messages and offered condolences to the family.
New Delhi: As protests in Cuba intensify, the President of the country Miguel Diaz-Canel recently accused former adult movie star Mia Khalifa of colluding with the US government to encourage protests in the nation against the leader's communist regime.

On Monday (July 12), he had made this statement on national television. Mia retaliated to his accusations on Twitter the next day (July 13) and denied his allegations, claiming that she was not paid by any government. She lashed out at the President said she chooses to spread awareness about his 'inhumanity' towards his citizens on her own time and free of cost.

She tweeted, "Oy, singao Im not being paid by any government to spread awareness of your inhumanity towards your people. I do it for free and on my own time. #notsponsored".

Oy, singao Im not being paid by any government to spread awareness of your inhumanity towards your people. I do it for free and on my own time. @DiazCanelB #notsponsored  Mia K. (@miakhalifa) July 12, 2021

Anti-government protests in Havana, Cuba have been ongoing for the past few days and have emerged to be one of the biggest demonstrations in years. According to a Reuters report, the protests erupted due to the country's poor handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the deep economic crisis. Many are also demanding the abolishment of the communist regime.

In a statement from the White House, the President of the United States Joe Biden had lent out support for the Cuban protestors. He said, "The Cuban people are bravely asserting fundamental and universal rights. Those rights, including the right of peaceful protest and the right to freely determine their own future, must be respected. The United States calls on the Cuban regime to hear their people and serve their needs at this vital moment rather than enriching themselves."

This isn't the first time Mia has spoken about protests in other countries. Earlier in February, she had tweeted in support of the Farmers' protest in India and extended her support to them. Later, she was also trolled by certain netizens for her tweets.

Mia entered the professional pornographic industry in 2014 after which she was publicly disowned by her parents. She revealed in a 2016 interview that she had quit the adult industry after three months. Apart from the farmers protest, the media star has also extended support to Black Lives Matter movement, ill-treatment of women in the porn industry and so on.
New Delhi: Superstar Shah Rukh Khan's daughter Suhana is an avid social media user. The stunner took to her Instagram handle and teased her party look.

Donning a black backless dress, Suhana Khan flashed her million-dollar smile. She captioned her post as: red moon low in the sky

Her friends dropped their comments on the post as well.

SRK and Gauri Khan's darling daughter Suhana Khan headed to New York University in 2019 where she is studying acting. She completed her graduation from Ardingly College in England.

Speculation of her making her starry entry into the movie business has always been around and now that she is studying acting as a course, looks like very soon the pretty girl will be making her big-screen debut. However, no announcement has been made so far.

She has acted in several plays and also in a short movie.
Aurangabad: At least 488 schools in the rural areas of Maharashtra's Aurangabad district, which had been shut amid the COVID-19 pandemic, reopened for students from Classes 8 to 12 on Thursday, an official said. In keeping with the state government's guidelines, these schools are located in villages where no case of coronavirus had been detected in the last 30 days.

At least 488 schools reopened for Classes of 8 to 12 in nine talukas of Aurangabad, and 29 per cent students attended classes on the first day, the official said.

The total strength of students admitted in Classes 8 to 12 is 64,282, and of these, 18,509 students remained present at schools, he said. "The decision about reopening schools in the Nagar Parishad and city jurisdictions is yet to be taken. The number of students will gradually go up. It was necessary to start schools with physical classes, as there were hurdles in online education in rural areas. The move should be welcomed," education officer B.B Chavan told PTI.

Parents will send their children to school after observing the situation for a few days, the official said. Some villages have had no patients for the last 25 to 28 days, and schools in these places will commence in the coming days once the 30-day period is over, he added.

The total strength of teachers in the district for Classes 8 to 12 is 2,676, and of these 2,280 remained present on the first day, the official said, adding that 1,850 educators have taken both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, while 1,332 have taken one jab.

So far, village-level committees have passed the resolution to start 859 schools in the district and these will start in coming days, another official said.

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New Delhi: Two persons, including an Indian Army man, have been arrested under the Official Secrets Act for allegedly providing classified documents to the Inter-Services Intelligence of Pakistan, the Delhi Police said. The Army headquarters have confirmed that the documents in question were classified in nature, they said.

The development comes a day after the Crime Branch of Delhi Police arrested a 34-year-old vegetable supplier at the Pokhran Army base camp in Rajasthan for allegedly getting sensitive documents from an Army man in exchange for money and providing them to Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The vegetable supplier, identified as Habeeb Khan, aka Habibur Rehman, was picked up on Tuesday by the Delhi Police from Pokhran.

The Delhi Police's Crime Branch received information that some sensitive documents related to defence establishment were being sent to the neighbouring country through spy network. The police recovered several documents, sensitive in nature, during a raid conducted at Habib's residence in Pokhran. The Army confirmed that the documents recovered during the search, were highly confidential.

The police found out that the army man Paramjit was the link man in the crime. During the course of investigation, it was revealed that Habib had lured Paramjit of money, in exchange of providing him with confidential documents. Habib had allegedly been working for ISI for almost 4 years.

Paramjit was earlier posted at Pokhran where he came in contact with Habib who asked him to share the secret documents. Paramjit is currently posted as a clerk at a highly secret operational unit of the Agra Cantt, from where he was leaking out secret maps, important information related to the army's operation plan, training of army personnal, and secret letters to Habib.

The police also found about the Hawala money which was used to fund the nexus, after which they seized the bank accounts of both the accused.

According to police, Habib's relatives are based in Pakistan's Sindh and he had been to that country and met some people there involved in the spy racket.

Habib was asked to share the documents with them and the money for doing the job was sent through hawala network, police said, adding that further investigation is underway in the matter. According to sources, Habib paid almost Rs 8-9 lakh to Paramjit for leaking out the data, classified in nature. "Multiple bank accounts used in the crime have been found," a police official told PTI, adding the matter is being thoroughly investigated.

Meanwhile, four more people from the army, who were in touch with Paramjit, are also on the radar of Military Intelligence and the intelligence agency.

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New Delhi: To control the spread of COVID-19, governments and the people should be on the same page. That's what Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal believes. Kejriwal's comments come after the Uttar Pradesh government allowed Kanwar Yatra, while the Uttarakhand government cancelled it.

"COVID-19 is a major pandemic. All the governments and people must take all the required steps to curb the pandemic together," he said. Before Kejriwal, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami had also told a news agency that protecting people's life was paramount. "Protection of people's lives comes first for us," Dhami said.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Uttarakhand government on July 14 cancelled the Kanwar Yatra this year. Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh government decided to continue with the Yatra.The Kanwar Yatra, in which Lord Shiva devotees from northern states, travel on foot or by other means to collect water from River Ganga at Haridwar, Uttarakhand, to offer at Shiva temples in their areas, is set to begin from July 25.

The Supreme Court, taking suo motu cognisance of the Uttar Pradesh government's decision to allow the 'Kanwar Yatra' amid the COVID pandemic, issued a notice to the Centre and the state governments of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, seeking their responses. The matter is set to come up for hearing on July 16.

(With ANI inputs)

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Srinagar: The Indian Army and locals from Jammu and Kashmir celebrated the golden jubilee of Indias victory over Pakistan in the 1971 War, which saw the liberation of Bangladesh.

Swarnim Vijay Varsh Yatra was organised in a colourful manner from Srinagar 15 Corps Army headquarters to various places in Srinagar. Army officers, jawans, ex-servicemen, school children, local youth, members of local bodies, police, civil officers and others participated in the rally.

Such celebrations were seen for the first time in Srinagar. Many locals said that it was an honour for them to be a part of the rally.

It is the victory torch of the 1971 war that has reached Srinagar and we welcome it. Here you must have felt everything new is happening for the very first time in Srinagar, said Municipal councillor Aqib Renju.

NCC cadet Shabir said, As many people participate in this, they will know what the country has done for us, how they shed blood for us and they protect us. Change is visible.

The march reached Ziro Bridge via boats in Jhelum and then marched to Joggers Park in Rajbagh where a festival was organized by the army and 1971 war soldiers were honoured.

Also Read: Three bus boats brought from New Zealand to revive river transport in Kashmir

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Srinagar: Even as people around the world are getting used to the online way of doing things, be it education or work, the students of Limber Boniyar village in Jammu and Kashmirs Baramulla climb hills despite the fear of animal attacks in search of mobile signal.

The network issue in the village has forced the students, who fear they would not be able to compete with students from the other parts of the country, to hike 4 km every day from their village to a dense patch of forest where they could find network.

Sima, a student of class 10 said, We are facing a big issue of network. We dont get network here for the last three years. Since the (COVID-19) pandemic broke out, we are unable to attend the online classes.

We have climb three to four kilometres on the hilltop where we get network from a neighbouring village so that we can attend the online classes. We wish you take our voice to authorities so that this problem is solved and we get justice, she told Zee Media.

The area falls under the Limber Wild Life Sanctuary and is surrounded by dense forests where there is a high probability of encountering wild animals.

The students said they are unable to concentrate on their studies as they fear attacks by wilds animals.

We cant concentrate even here on studies as its a forest area and we always carry a fear of wild animals. Its at the top of the hill, where we get phone signal. We wish authorities take note of our problems and help us to study properly, said Arifa, another student.

The students said they fear they may not be able to compete with students of the remaining country and that they feel digitally backward.

As the rest of the country is leading a digital life under Digital India, Limber Boniyar has been left behind. The students hope the administration, especially Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha, looks into their problem and helps them.

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New Delhi: India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Thursday (July 15) extended support to Libya's National Unity government with New Delhi willing to provide "capacity building and training assistance in mutually identified areas."

After years of instability, Libya's National Unity government was formed in March this year and has been charged with the conduct of elections on December 24, 2021.

Speaking at United Nations Security Council (UNSC) briefing on United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Shringla said, "Elections need to be held as planned on December 24, 2021, in a free and fair manner. In order to achieve this, it is vital that the constitutional basis for conducting elections is agreed upon early.

He stressed on an "inclusive and comprehensive national reconciliation process" and hoped that all the "parties concerned would engage sincerely in this endeavour."

October 2020 saw a ceasefire agreement between various rival parties in the country. The ceasefire pact called for the withdrawal of foreign mercenaries and other forces from the country within 90 days, and a number of confidence-building measures including prisoners exchange.

The Foreign Secretary said that the ceasefire agreement "need to be respected" but "unfortunately, these provisions, in particular, those related to the withdrawal of foreign forces and mercenaries, continue to be violated". He also highlighted that the "arms embargo continues to be blatantly violated" and "there needs to be a serious discussion within UNSC for measures to ensure that the decisions of the Council on withdrawal of foreign forces are implemented for sustainable peace and stability" in the North African country.

India's envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti is the chair of the UNSC's Libya sanctions committee. As the chair, it monitors the implementation of the sanctions measures. Measures such as arms embargo, travel ban, assets freeze, and business restrictions for listed terror groups based in the country.

At the meet, Shringla said, "We must ensure that terrorist groups and affiliated entities are not allowed to operate unchallenged in Libya" and expressed concern over the activity of the Islamic State in the country.

He pointed out, "Libya has become a logistics platform for Al-Qaeda affiliates in Mali. This is a matter of grave concern due to the potential cascading effect it could have throughout the Sahel region,

India has had close and friendly relations with Libya but with the fall of the country's ruler, Muammar Gaddafi, for decades, the country has been in a precarious situation.

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New Delhi: The CBI has filed a case against a Public Works Department official and a private firm in connection with irregularities in contract pertaining to Delhi government school upgradation.

The case was registered based on a complaint by Central Public Works Department (CPWD) after it found alleged overpayment for development work related to government schools in the national capital.

After a departmental investigation, CPWD alleged that scam was done in the name of upgrading 75 school classrooms of Kadkardooma area.

It was alleged that the contractor, Purvanchal Associates, not only did shoddy work but also took more money than the fixed price.

Purvanchal Associates was given the task of upgrading 75 classrooms of government schools in Kadakdooma area of East Delhi by the Delhi Government. This government contract was awarded through Nand Lal, Executive Engineer, Kadkardooma Court Division. It is alleged that instead of the bill of Rs 3,97,93,780, the PWD of Delhi Government gave Rs 4,52,52,253 to the contractor i.e. Rs 45 lakh more, the CBI said in a statement.

When the CPWD inspected the schools that functioned, it was allegedly found that the work was of very poor quality.

CPWD Chief Vigilance Officer VK Parashar wrote to CBI for investigation after departmental inquiry and started investigation by registering a case against PWD Executive Engineer Nand Lal and Purvanchal Associates and other PWD officials of Delhi Government.

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Beijing: With India firmly conveying to China that the prolongation of the existing situation in eastern Ladakh was visibly impacting the bilateral ties in a "negative manner", Beijing on Thursday said it is ready to seek a "mutually acceptable solution" to the issues that require "urgent treatment" through negotiation.

During their hour-long in-person meeting on the sidelines of an SCO conclave in Dushanbe on Wednesday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also told his Chinese counterpart and State Councilor Wang Yi that any unilateral change in the status quo along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) was "not acceptable" to India and that the overall ties can only develop after full restoration of peace and tranquillity in eastern Ladakh.

The meeting in Tajikistan's capital took place amidst a stalemate in the disengagement process between the two militaries in the remaining friction points in eastern Ladakh after they withdrew troops and weapons from the Pangong Lake areas in February following series of military and diplomatic talks to resolve the standoff since May last year.

In a statement posted on its website on Thursday on Wang's talks with Jaishankar, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said, the minister stated that India-China relations remained at a "low point" while the situation at the border has "generally been easing" after the withdrawal of troops from the Galwan Valley and Pangong Lake.

However, the relations between India and China are still at a "low point" which is not in "anyone's interest", Wang said.

While reiterating China's oft-repeated stand that it was not responsible for the China-India border situation, Wang, however said that "China is ready to seek a mutually acceptable solution to the issues that require urgent treatment through negotiation and consultation with the Indian side."

While China moved its troops from Galwan Valley and Pangong Tso, the disengagement has not been completed from other friction points like Hot Springs, Gogra and Depsang in eastern Ladakh.

In his meeting with Wang, Jaishankar firmly conveyed to that the prolongation of the existing situation in eastern Ladakh was visibly impacting the bilateral ties in a "negative manner" and rued that there was no forward movement from the Chinese side since the disengagement in Pangong Lake areas in February that had created conditions for resolving the remaining issues.

Jaishankar told Wang that any unilateral change in the status quo along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) was "not acceptable" to India and that the overall ties can only develop after full restoration of peace and tranquillity in eastern Ladakh, according to statement issued by MEA on Wang-Jaishankar talks.

While agreeing to discuss mutually acceptable solution to the "issues that require urgent treatment, Wang said the two sides should place the boundary issue in an appropriate position in bilateral relations and create favourable conditions for the settlement of differences through negotiation by expanding the positive aspects of bilateral cooperation.

"It is important to consolidate the achievements of the disengagement, strictly abide by the agreement and consensus between the two sides, refrain from taking any unilateral actions in the sensitive disputed areas, and avoid the recurrence of the situation due to misunderstanding and misjudgement," Wang was quoted as saying by the Chinese foreign ministry statement.

"We need to take a long-term view, shift from emergency management to normal border management and control mechanisms, and prevent border-related incidents from causing unnecessary disruptions to bilateral relations", he said.

The essence of China-India relations is how two major developing neighbours view each other, how to live in harmony and how to achieve mutual success, Wang said.

"China's strategic judgment on China-India relations remains unchanged. The China-India relationship should not be a threat to each other, but an opportunity for each other's development. The two countries are partners, not rivals, and not enemies," he emphasied.

"The principles of China-India relations should continue to be mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, non-aggression, non-interference in each other's internal affairs and mutual respect for each other's core interests", he said.

The mode of interaction between China and India should continue to be dominated by cooperation, mutual benefit and complementarity, healthy competition and avoidance of confrontation, he said.

Today, China and India shoulder more important responsibilities for peace and prosperity in their respective regions and the world at large. We should pay more attention to our common strategic interests and deliver more benefits to the peoples of the two countries, he said.

Recalling their last meeting in Moscow, in September 2020, Jaishankar also emphasised the need to follow through on the agreement reached then and complete the disengagement, resolving the remaining issues along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh at the earliest.

According to military officials, each side currently has around 50,000 to to 60,000 troops along the LAC in the sensitive sector.
Itanagar: With unwavering zeal, health and district officials in Arunachal Pradesh trekked over nine hours to vaccinate 16 grazers staying at 14,000 feet above the sea level at Luguthang, one of the remotest villages in Tawang district, close to the border with Tibet.

Tawang Deputy Commissioner Sang Phuntsok led the eight-member team which vaccinated the 16 villagers on Monday, as they were left out of the governments Covid immunisation camp organised by the Tawang`s health and district authorities on May 19.

The mission came to light when Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu tweeted: "Reaching the unreached -- Bringing Covid Vaccines to remote communities. Covid frontline warriors trek for hours in this absolutely breathtaking sceneries to vaccinate a small community of Yak herders who live in high mountainous areas of Tawang district in Arunachal Pradesh."

The Chief Minister also tagged photographs of the frontier soldiers, including women, led by the Tawang Deputy Commissioner trekking through the mountainous terrain to reach their destination at the furthest village of Luguthang, which is aerially 30 km from Tawang.

In all, 10 families comprising 65 people in the village are yak grazers.

ALSO READ: Assam allows online sale of liquor in Guwahati on a pilot basis

The May 19 vaccination camp was organised at Domtsang, a village between Luguthang and Thingbu Hydel. The inoculation camp was aimed to cater to Luguthang and the other villages in the area.

According to the health officials, 33 villagers of Luguthang in the eligible age group got immunised on May 19.

A district official told IANS over the phone that the grazers move out with their livestock to far-flung areas and despite their various efforts, including sending messages through the villagers, 16 grazers were left out of the vaccination camp.

"But Deputy Commissioner Sang Phuntsok was determined to vaccinate the 16 grazers who were left out," the official said.

ALSO READ: Matter of concern to see crowds without masks in hill stations, PM Narendra Modi tells CMs of North-East states

The official added that the Deputy Commissioner, doctors and other officials, including Zila Parishad chairman Leki Gombu, started their trek from the Thingbu Hydel village at 7.15 am on Sunday and reached Luguthang at 4.30 p.m. after crossing two hazardous peaks in Tawang district -- Nyukteng and Nahchhot. The villagers were vaccinated the following day.

There is no motorable road from Thingbu Hydel to Luguthang, which forced the team to undertake the strenuous expedition on foot.

The officials had to walk through thick forests, swampy stretches and Luguthang river, a tributary of Tawang Chu, numerous times.

The officials and the health staff also explained to the villagers the utility of inoculation after they were given the jab by district reproductive and child health officer Rinchin Neema.

The health employees and veterinary officials gave them free medicines for diarrhea, deworming and other ailments for both the villagers and their livestock.

Besides Covid vaccination, 19 other patients were also treated for different ailments by the accompanying doctors.

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New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached his parliamentary constituency Varanasi after a gap of 7 months and 15 days on Thursday (July 15). He inaugurated 78 projects completed at a cost of Rs 744 crore and also laid the foundation of 206 proposed schemes. But his visit to the city was not limited only to development schemes. It was rather directly related to the Legislative Assembly elections in the state to be held next year.

Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary explained what the prime ministers visit to Varanasi reveals about the upcoming assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh.

The PMs Varanasi was significant in a number of ways. It gave a clue to what can be expected in the polls next year. Here are some key points to note in this regard:

1. Yogi Adityanath will be BJP's CM candidate

Last month, BJP National General Secretary BL Santhosh visited Lucknow where he met Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and other party leaders. Following this, Adityanath reached Delhi to meet Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP President JP Nadda. There were wide speculations about a major reshuffle in UP ahead of the polls.

Even Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Morya, in a special conversation with Zee News on June 13, had said that the central leadership will decide who will be BJPs CM face for the UP elections.

All these speculations were put to rest today when PM Modi praised Adityanath and his governance.

Modis kind words for the CM, particularly for his handling of the COVID-19 second wave, confirmed that Adityanath will be the CM candidate in the UP polls.

2. PM Modi kick-starts UP election campaign

With the announcement of a flurry of schemes, PM Modi kick-started the election campaign from Varanasi. The most important of these projects is the International Cooperation and Convention Centre of Varanasi, which has been named Rudraksh.

In 2017, when former Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe came to Ahmedabad, there was a discussion on building this Convention Centre after which its construction started in 2018. The project was completed in just three years and today PM Modi inaugurated it.

3. PM Modi will be the face of BJP in the UP election

With todays developments, it is clear that the BJP will contest the UP election projecting PM Modi as the key figure.

But why did the Prime Minister choose Varanasi to start the election campaign?

There are a total of 403 Vidhan Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, out of which Purvanchal alone has the maximum number of 156 seats. In the 2017 Vidhan Sabha elections, BJP won 106 seats here, while Samajwadi Party got 18 and BSP got 12 seats.

If BJP has to come to power again, then these seats will have to be given due importance. Perhaps this is why PM Modi chose to kick off the election campaign from Varanasi.

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New Delhi: Four men from Punjab have been taken into custody by police in Himachal Pradesh's Manali for allegedly attacking a local with swords. The incident came to light after a video went viral on social media, where the tourists can be seen taking out their swords following a scuffle with the local.

The most shocking update was that the incident took place only 100 metres away from the Manali police station.

According to the reports, the whole scuffle broke out after one car overtook the other. Following this, the tourists allegedly took out swords and broke into a fight with the local.

Himachal Pradesh | Four tourists from Punjab arrested for attacking public with swords in Manali after they were asked to reverse their car, which was causing traffic jam; one injured. A case has been registered under relevant sections of IPC and Arms Act: Gurdev Sharma, SP Kullu pic.twitter.com/I7TVtfHNs0  ANI (@ANI) July 15, 2021

Four tourists from Punjab have been arrested for attacking public with swords in Manali after they were asked to reverse their car, Kullu SP Gurdev Sharma said.

ALSO READ: Woman falls from ninth floor of a Ghaziabad apartment, horrific visuals go viral

Their car was causing a traffic jam, he further said, adding that a person was injured. A case has been registered under relevant sections of IPC and Arms Act against the tourists, he added.

The reports also revealed that the local suffered minor injuries.

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New Delhi: India recorded 41,806 new COVID-19 cases and 581 deaths in the last 24 hours, the Union Health Ministry informed on Thursday (July 15, 2021). India's active coronavirus cases have now increased to 4,32,041.

India's total coronavirus caseload has now increased to 3,09,87,880, of which, 4,11,989 have succumbed to the virus. A total of 3,01,43,850 people have recovered from the COVID-19 infections in the country, out of which 39,130 people recovered from the infection on Thursday.

India reports 41,806 new #COVID19 cases, 39,130 recoveries, & 581 deaths in the last 24 hours, as per Health Ministry Total cases: 3,09,87,880

Total recoveries: 3,01,43,850

Active cases: 4,32,041

Death toll: 4,11,989 Total vaccinated: 39,13,40,491 (34,97,058 in last 24 hrs) pic.twitter.com/gyZqhcksfn  ANI (@ANI) July 15, 2021

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said on Thursday that a total of 438,011,958 samples have been tested for the Covid-19 disease so far of which 1,943,488 were tested in the last 24 hours.

Additionally, the Union Home Ministry on Wednesday (July 14, 2021), in a letter to all states and Union Territories, stated that blatant violations of COVID-19 norms have been observed in several parts of the country, including hill stations and asked the concerned authorities to ensure compliance to laid down guidelines.

The letter was signed by Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla. In the letter, Bhalla said COVID-appreciate behaviour is not being adhered to in public places as massive crowds are thronging marketplaces, violating social distancing norms. Putting emphasis on the consequent increase in the 'R'-factor (reproduction number) in some of the states, Bhalla said it is a matter of concern.

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New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday questioned the Centre on the utility of having sedition law even after 75 years of independence. The Court also expressed its concern on sedition law being misused by police against persons who speak against the government.

A bench headed by Chief Justice N.V. Ramana said: "It is a colonial law used by the British to silence Mahatma Gandhi, Tilak. Still, it is necessary after 75 years of independence?" Chief Justice told Attorney General K.K. Venugopal, "I am indicating, what I am thinking".

The bench cited the example of continued usage of section 66A of the I-T Act, which was quashed, and emphasized on the abuse of the law to arrest thousands for airing their views. The top court pointed out that sedition law is also not immune to misuse by police against persons who speak against the government. "It is like you give a saw to carpenter, he will cut the entire forest. This is the impact of this law", said the Chief Justice.

He further elaborated that police officers even in a village can invoke sedition law, and all these issues are required to be examined. "My concern is the misuse of law. There is no accountability of executing agencies. I will look into it", said the Chief Justice.

The Chief Justice told AG, the government has already taken out several stale laws, "I don`t know why you are not looking into this law". Venugopal replied that he completely understands the concern of the top court. He submitted that the top court could lay down fresh guidelines to restrict the use of the sedition provision only for protection of nation and democratic institutions. Venugopal emphasized instead of taking out the entire law, parameters could be laid down on its usage.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted that once the Centre files its counter affidavit on the PIL by retired major general S.G. Vombatkere, the court`s task will be easier.

The top court`s observations came on plea by Mysuru-based Major General S.G. Vombatkere challenging the constitutional validity of Section 124A (sedition) of the IPC with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. On July 12, another bench of the Supreme Court had sought response from the Centre and Attorney General on a plea challenging the constitutionality of the offence of sedition under Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code.



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New Delhi: Japan's Prime minister Yoshihide Suga on Thursday (July 15) said that India and Japan share fundamental values and have a long history of exchanges for mutual benefit.

His comments came at the inauguration of the International Cooperation and Convention Centre  Rudraksh in Varanasi by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In a recorded message, Suga said, Japan and India share fundamental values such as freedom, democracy and rule of law and strategic interest and both countries have maintained cordial relations throughout the long history of exchanges.

The International Convention Centre in Modi's constituency has been constructed with Japanese assistance. Designed in the shape of Shiva Ling, the auditorium of the convention centre has 1200 seats. It has 109 'Rudraksh' decorated across its facade.

The Japan PM said, I am very pleased to see that the Convention Centre was built in such a special city as a symbol of friendship between the two countries through Japan's grant aid.

At the event, PM Modi lauded the role of Japan in the building of the Centre and highlighted the role by both present Japan PM and his predecessor Shinzo Abe.

Calling Japan a param mitra or best friend, Modi said, PM Suga as Japan's Chief Cabinet secretary was engaged in the Convention Centre project - Rudraksh in Varanasi", adding how former PM Shinzo Abe had directed his officials to work on the project when the idea was first proposed.

PM Modi said India and Japan have a natural partnership, pointing to how Tokyo has been engaged in the bullet train project, dedicated freight corridor and other projects. Japan's envoy to India, Satoshi Suzuki, was also present at the inauguration ceremony in Varanasi.

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New Delhi: Lok Sabha Secretariat has issued notices to MPs Shishir Adhikari, Sunil Kumar Mandal and K Raghu Rama Krishna Raju under the anti-defection law, sources said Thursday.

The notices were issued as Adhikari and Mandal were elected on TMC tickets but switched over to the BJP, while YSR Congress' Raghu Rama Krishna Raju has been speaking against the party's supremo and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy.

The TMC and the YSR Congress had approached Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla with complaints against the three MPs.

"The Lok Sabha Secretariat issues letter to Shishir Adhikari, Sunil Kumar Mandal and K Raghu Rama Krishna Raju, all MPs, in response to petitions received under Anti-Defection Law. They have been asked to give their comments within 15 days of the receipt of letters," a source said.

The Tenth Schedule, popularly called the anti-defection law, was inserted in the Constitution in 1985.

It lays down the process by which legislators may be disqualified on the grounds of defection by the presiding officer of a legislature based on a petition by any other member of the House.

A legislator is deemed to have defected if he either voluntarily gives up the membership of his party or disobeys the directives of the party leadership on a vote. This implies that a legislator defying (abstaining or voting against) the party whip on any issue can lose his membership of the House.

The law applies to both Parliament and state assemblies. The decision of the presiding officer can be challenged in court.
Another likely visit to Delhi by a chief minister has set the political circle talking. Sources say that West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee is likely to visit New Delhi later this month, wherein she might meet leaders of non-BJP parties. This has renewed buzz over formation of an anti-BJP front ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. According to some reports, she will head to the national capital on July 25 and stay there for around 5 days.

The talk of an anti-BJP front gained momentum after leaders of various parties and prominent individuals came together at NCP chief Sharad Pawar's Delhi residence last month. The meeting was hosted by Pawar and called by former union minister Yashwant Sinha, who is now in the TMC. Sinha, a former BJP stalwart, is a strident critic of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Following this, Prashant Kishor's series of meetings - with Pawar and then the Gandhis, including the one he had with Congress president Sonia Gandhi, former party chief Rahul Gandhi and general secretary Priyanka Vadra together - all contributed to the anti-BJP coalition buzz.

"Mamata didi has further grown in stature after defeating the BJP in the assembly elections. She now wants to reach out to anti-BJP and non-BJP parties at the national level ahead of the 2024 general elections," a TMC leader said. He said Banerjee will, in all probability, meet Congress president Sonia Gandhi, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, her Delhi counterpart and AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal and Sharad Pawar during the visit.

Banerjee, who is likely to spend a few days in the national capital, has apparently timed her visit to coincide with the monsoon session of Parliament as senior leaders of opposition parties will be in town. The sources said Banerjee may visit some other states as well.

On her part, Banerjee at a press conference said that there was nothing unusual in her visit. "Everytime after elections, I visit Delhi to meet old and new friends. So, this time too, I would be going to Delhi for few days as the COVID-19 situation is presently under control," she said. She added that she might meet Narendra Modi and Ramnath Kovid too, if given an appointment. "I would seek appointment with the prime minister and President during my visit," the Bengal CM said.

(With PTI inputs)

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New Delhi: After 51 days of custody in neighbouring Dominica for illegal entry, which Mehul Choksis lawyers claim was a kidnapping plan, the fugitive diamantaire has landed in Antigua and Barbuda, where he has been staying since 2018 after leaving India. As per local media reports, the Dominica court on Monday (July 12) granted bail to the absconding businessman and allowed him to travel back to Antigua for his medical treatment.

The court has asked Choksi to deposit Eastern Caribbean dollars 10,000 as surety for the bail, Antigua News Room reported.

The reports also revealed that while seeking bail from the court, the absconding businessman attached his medical reports, including a CT scan, which showed "mildly worsening hematoma".

In the medical reports, doctors recommend an urgent review of Choksis medical condition by a neurologist and a neurosurgical consultant.

"The services are not currently available on the island (Dominica). All courtesies extended to him would be greatly appreciated," the CT scan report dated June 29 signed by Doctors Yerandy Galle Gutierrez and Rene Gilbert Veranes of Princess Margaret Hospital of Dominica said.

Meanwhile, Mehul Choksi is wanted in a Rs 13,500 crore PNB fraud case in India and had mysteriously gone missing on May 23 from Antigua and Barbuda, where he has been staying as a citizen since 2018.

He was detained in the neighbouring island country of Dominica for illegal entry, after a possible romantic escapade with his rumored girlfriend.

Choksi's lawyers alleged that he was abducted from Jolly Harbour in Antigua by policemen looking like Antiguan and Indian, and brought to Dominica on a boat.

(With PTI inputs)

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New Delhi: Amid speculations of him running for the presidential election next year, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Wednesday (July 14) ruled out all such possibilities. Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Pawar called the speculative media reports "absolutely false" which projected him as a candidate for the Presidential election.

Denying all rumours, Pawar told ANI, that given the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has over 300 MPs, he knows the outcome of the election.

"I know what will be the result, given the party that has more than 300 MPs. I will not be a candidate for the presidential election," the former union minister said, putting an end to all speculations. Incumbent President Ram Nath Kovinds tenure will come to an end in 2022.

The reports became rife after election strategist Prashant Kishor met with Sharad Pawar last month followed by his meeting with Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra this week.

Spilling the beans on his much-talked-about meeting with Kishor, Pawar refuted any discussions on 2024 Lok Sabha polls or the Presidential election.

"Prashant Kishor met me twice, but we only talked about a company of his. No discussion was held regarding the leadership for the 2024 elections or the Presidential election. Prashant Kishor told me that he has left the field of formulating poll strategies," the news agency quoted him as saying.

The NCP chief asserted that he will not assume any leadership role in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. "Nothing has been decided so far, be it the 2024 general elections or state elections. The election is far away, the political situation keeps changing. I am not going to assume any leadership in the 2024 elections," he added.

Meanwhile, NCP minister Nawab Malik said there has been no discussion within the party on the presidential poll, PTI reported.

(With agency inputs)

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New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (July 15) inaugurated a state-of-the-art convention centre at his parliamentary constituency of Varanasi, saying it will become an attractive destination for conferences and pull in tourists and businesspersons to the city.

The Prime Minister shared aerial shots of the building on his social media. The international cooperation and convention centre has been named "Rudraksh" and has as many as 108 Rudraksha at the centre. Its roof is shaped like a 'Shiva Linga'.

I am delighted to be inaugurating a convention centre Rudraksh in Varanasi. Constructed with Japanese assistance, this state-of-the-art centre will make Varanasi an attractive destination for conferences thus drawing more tourists and businesspersons to the city. pic.twitter.com/ExoBLO6sp3  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 14, 2021

Built on 2.87 hectares of land at Sigra area, the two-storey structure has a seating capacity of 1,200 people.

The objective is to provide opportunities for social and cultural interactions between people at the international convention centre. They say it will strengthen the city's competitiveness by developing its tourism sector, officals told PTI.

The convention centre has been built with the assistance from Japan International Cooperation Agency. An environment-friendly building, the centre is equipped with adequate security and safety systems. It features a regular entrance, a service entrance and a separate VIP entrance, making it an ideal destination for holding all types of international events.

Modi inaugurated and laid foundation stones of multiple development projects worth more than Rs 1,500 crore at Varanasi today. The key projects include multi-level parking at Godaulia, Ro-Ro Vessels for tourism development and a three-lane flyover bridge on thpibe Varanasi-Ghazipur Highway.

PM Modi inaugurated development projects worth around Rs 744 crore and laid foundation stones of several projects and public works worth about Rs 839 crore.

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New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (July 15, 2021) will visit his Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth Rs 1500 crore. Ahead of his visit, PM Modi on Wednesday evening tweeted, "Tomorrow, 15th July, I will be in Kashi to inaugurate a wide range of development works worth over Rs. 1500 crore. These works will further Ease of Living for the people of Kashi and Poorvanchal."

Tomorrow, 15th July, I will be in Kashi to inaugurate a wide range of development works worth over Rs. 1500 crore. These works will further Ease of Living for the people of Kashi and Poorvanchal. https://t.co/jssVnz5bVa  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 14, 2021

The Prime Minister is scheduled to inaugurate various public projects and works on Thursday morning, including a 100-bed MCH wing in BHU, Ro-Ro Vessels for tourism development on River Ganga, multi-level parking at Godauliya and a three-lane flyover bridge on the Varanasi-Ghazipur Highway.

A release from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) stated that projects which the Prime Minister will inaugurate will be worth around Rs 744 crores and public works will be worth around Rs 839 crores.

"These include the Centre for Skill and Technical Support of Central Institute of Petrochemical Engineering and Technology (CIPET), 143 rural projects under Jal Jeevan Mission and mango and vegetable integrated pack house in Karkhiyanv," read the release by PMO.

Later in the day, PM Modi will inaugurate the International Cooperation and Convention Centre - Rudrakash, which has been constructed with Japanese assistance. Followed by an inspection of a Maternal and Child Health Wing, BHU in the afternoon. The release from PMO also stated that the Prime Minister will also meet with officials and medical professionals to review COVID-19 preparedness.

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New Delhi: Schools in Gujarat for Class 12 students, colleges and technical institutions reopened on Thursday (July 15) with COVID-19 protocols in place. The government had decided to resume physical classes for Class 12 and college students with 50 per cent attendance in place.

However, physical attendance is not compulsory for students, and the authorities at schools and colleges have to obtain parents' consent if students are to be asked to attend in person.

On July 9, CM Vijay Rupani took the decision after reviewing the COVID-19 situation and allowed schools and colleges to re-open with 50 per cent capacity. Gujarat to reopen schools for class 12 students and colleges for undergraduate and postgraduate students from July 15. Fifty per cent of students will be allowed to attend campuses. Students can attend physical classes on a voluntary basis. Attendance will not be mandatory, ANI quoted the CM as saying.

Meanwhile, Gujarat on Wednesday (July 14) logged 41 new COVID-19 cases, which pushed the total tally to 8,24,346. With no fresh fatality, the death toll stood at 10,074 an official from the state health department said.

(With agency inputs)

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New Delhi: Senior Congress leader Shatrughan Sinha is likely to crossover to Mamata Banerjee's side and join her party Trinamool Congress in coming days, sources said.

According to sources, Sinha has been more inclined towards the Trinamool Congress, ever since it humbled the saffron party in the recently held general assembly election in West Bengal and its supremo Mamata Banerjee emerged as a potent rival of Prime Minister Modi in 2024 general election. "There is a chance of Shatrughan Sinha switching over to the Trinamool on its July 21 Martyrs' day celebration function," said sources.

Recently, when Sinha was questioned by PTI about his chance of joining the Trinamool Congress, he had refused to make a direct comment, saying, "Politics is an art of possibility." Sources close to him, however, did not deny the chance.

A section of the TMC leaders also said in Kolkata that talks are in an advanced stage in this regard. The TMC leaders said the actor-politician always had a good relation with Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Sinha, popularly known as 'Bihari Babu', made lavish praise on Mamata Banerjee, calling her 'real Royal Bengal tiger' and a 'tried and tested leader who trounced propaganda and 'dhanshakti' (money power) in the just-concluded Bengal polls'.

Sinha's former colleague in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee ministry, Yashwant Sinha, is now national vice-president of the TMC. Sinha, the two-term BJP MP from Patna Sahib, had joined the Congress and entered into the fray from the same constituency in the 2019 polls but lost to former union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. Though a big name in politics, Sinha, has not been given any big responsibility by the Congress.

Mamata Banerjee who has emerged as a strong rival to Modi in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls has already made it clear that her party will have a larger role outside West Bengal and in that scheme of things, people like Yashwant Sinha and Shatrughan Sinha could be important for the party.

Indications are that Shatrughan Sinha might be sent to the Upper House of Parliament from one of the two seats of the TMC.

Sinha, who had walked out of the BJP after launching a tirade against Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, saying the saffron party has become 'one man party and two men army', had recently posted a tweet saying apart from three variants of COVID, there is a fourth variant of people being "dukhi" (unhappy) with Modi without any reason. This was seen in the political circles as his efforts to reach out to his parent party to make a homecoming.

A popular Bollywood hero of yesteryears, Shatrughan Sinha had joined the BJP in the early '80s when it was a party of two MPs and served as its star campaigner for a long time during the Atal-Advani era. He, however, fell out with the present saffron party leadership of Modi-Shah and finally left it and joined the Congress before the last general election.

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New Delhi: Security forces on Thursday (July 15) busted a terror module in Jammu and Kashmir's Bandipora and arrested three terrorist associates of Lashkar-e-Toiba. They also recovered a cache of arms and ammunition and fake SIM cards from their possession.

Based on specific input, a joint team of Bandipora Police, 14 RR and 3rd Bn CRPF arrested at least three terrorist associates of Lashkar-e-Toiba outfit and recovered one pistol along with arms and ammunition, fake SIM cards, forged documents and other incriminating material from their possession. The arrested persons were identified as Suhaib Ah Malik aka Asif, Aejaz Ah Najar of Gundpora and Touseef Ah Sheikh of Chittaybanday Bandipora. All three associates were working for LeT outfit and used to arrange for fake SIM cards for terrorists.

The trio was in contact with LeT terrorist Shakir and operational commander Babar, both of whom are currently at Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Babar had tasked the terror module for surveillance of the police, security forces and political functionaries in the area. Babar had also promised the trio the supply of three AK rifles in the coming days so that they could formally join the terror ranks. They were further tasked to carry out weapon snatching till the consignment of weapons could be smuggled in and delivered.

An FIR has been registered at Argam police station and an investigation has been launched into the matter.

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New Delhi: The Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad (UPMSP) is likely to declare the UP Board Class 10th and 12th result today (July 15, 2021), as per a recent report in a leading news daily. However, the candidates need to note that there is no official update on the dates yet. The results are expected to be released on the official website of the board anytime next week.

As many as 56,03,813 candidates are waiting for UPMSP to declare the board results. These include 29,94,312 Class 12 students and 26,09,501 Class 10 students.

UPMSP Board result 2021: How to check results

1. Visit the official result website - upmsp.edu.in

2. Select the result link.

3. Enter the roll number and credentials.

4. Click on entre and download.

5. Candidates should take print out of the result for future use.

Earlier, on Wednesday (July 14), the UPMSP activated the direct link to download roll numbers, which students will have to use on the result day.

UPMSP Board result 2021: How to check roll number

1. Log on to the official website  upmsp.edu.in

2. On the homepage, under the 'Important Information & Downloads' tab, look for the link 'Click here to know your roll number for the candidates of High School Examination Year-2021'

3. Enter your UP Class 10 registration number

4. Click on 'Search roll number'

5. Your UP Class 10 roll numbers will be displayed

6. Download the same

Students are advised to keep an eye on the official website of the board for further updates.
New Delhi: Amid the influx of a large number of tourists arriving in the state and the threat of a possible third wave of COVID-19, which led to the cancellation of Kanwar yatra, the Haridwar District Magistrate C Ravishankar, Uttarakhand on Wednesday (July 14, 2021) revealed that the authorities have decided to send Gangajal via post to devotees.

We've started the process of sending Gangajal via post to devotees. We're also planning to supply Gangajal in tankers & are in talks with the administration of neighbouring states to avoid large number of gathering here, said Haridwar District Magistrate, C Ravishankar, Uttarakhand.

We've started process of sending Gangajal via post to devotees. We're also planning to supply Gangajal in tankers & are in talks with administration of neighbouring states to avoid large number of gathering here: Haridwar Dist Magistrate C Ravishankar, Uttarakhand (14.07)#COVID pic.twitter.com/ScLq2Tm9tB  ANI (@ANI) July 14, 2021

The government has decided to take this step to ensure that the ban on Kanwar yatra does not stop Kanwariyas from anointing Lord Shiva with the holy water in their home states.

The decision comes days after the Uttarakhand government cancelled the Kanwar yatra in view of a possible third wave of COVID-19. It is for the second consecutive year that the yatra is not being held due to the pandemic.

The Indian Medical Association had also written to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami recently asking him to not allow the yatra to go ahead in the interest of the people of the state and the country.

While cancelling the yatra Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami had said that though Kanwar Yatra is part of Sanatan culture, saving lives in the time of the pandemic was paramount.

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Jammu: Close on the heels of the drone attack on Jammu air base, another drone was spotted on Thursday night at Hiranagar sector of Samba district in Jammu and Kashmir.

A local resident spotted the drone at around 8.45pm and notified the security agencies who are on high alert. .

Meanwhile, in another incident a drone was spotted the Air Force Station (AIF) in Jammu in the intervening night of Wednesday and Thursday, ANI reported. However details of the incident have not been confirmed.

A week after the drone attack at Jammu's Air Force base, the Srinagar administration had banned the sale, possession and use of drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles in the city.

On June 27, a drone attack at Jammu Air Force station had injured two Indian Air Force personnel. As per investigators, the attackers used a cocktail of RDX and nitrate in the IEDs, which were used to carry out the blast using the two drones.

The National Investigation Agency is currently investigating case. It has been suspected that the drones came from across the border.

Since the attack in June, the Border Security Force (BSF) and Central Industry Security Force (CISF) have been tasked with procuring anti-drone systems for the nearly 3,500 km-long International Border and also for civilian airports.

Earlier today, the Ministry of Civil Aviation issued draft rules to ensure ease of using drones in India on the basis of trust, self-certification and non-intrusive monitoring". The Drone Rules, 2021, once notified, will replace the UAS Rules, 2021, which came into force on March 12 this year.

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Mumbai: Bollywood's bundle of talent, actress Taapsee Pannu has been basking in glory with her back-to-back hits. The actress has added another milestone in her career, as she launches her production house Outsiders Films.

For Outsiders Films, she has joined forces with Pranjal Khandhdiya who is a content creator and producer for over 20 years. He has been involved in the production of renowned films such as Super 30, 83, Soorma, Piku, Mubarakan, Azhar and is also producing Rashmi Rocket, starring Taapsee.

Elated with the launch of the production house, Taapsee shares, I am thrilled to embark upon this new journey and diversify my love for cinema with my production house Outsiders Films. Having my business ventures, management comes naturally to me. Hence, I always thought of setting my own production house. The audience and the industry have given me a lot of support and love over the 11 years of my career. With Outsiders Films, I aim to give back to the industry and empower talent who are looking for a breakthrough and come with no background like me. Pranjal and I together look forward to opening doors for new and fresh talents, both in front and behind the camera.

Talking about naming the company, Taapsee shared, Pranjal and I both come from humble backgrounds thats when the name Outsiders Films clicked with us. We aim to produce meaningful, entertaining, and quality content.

Pranjal Khandhdiya shared, "Forging a solid partnership needs two people to have a lot of similarities and at the same time a different opinions. This is where our partnership becomes so interesting. Taapsee and I both have similar goals, but with varied opinions and approach. Outsiders Films gives us the opportunity to seek our creative goals while complimenting each other at work."

Outsiders Films will be doing ground productions for all the projects they are involved in rather than just having mere profit-sharing arrangements. The first project from the production house will be a thriller, with Taapsee headlining it.

Taapsee also owns a wedding planning company and a badminton team called 7 Aces Pune.

On the film front, Taapsee is set for a season chock-a-bloc with her next Looop Lapeta, Rashmi Rocket, DooBaaraa, a south film, Shabaash Mithu, and with many under the pipeline.
New Delhi: The Union Cabinet on Thursday (July 15) approved the restoration of dearness allowance and dearness relief for central government employees and pensioners. The restoration includes an 11% hike of dearness allowance. With the latest revision, the dearness allowance of the central government employees has been increased to 28% of their basic salary.

While central government employees and pensioners must be rejoicing the Union Cabinets move, theres also a setback for them. The government has decided not to pay the arrears of the dearness allowance hike.

Jaideep Bhatnagar, the principal spokesperson of the Indian government and principal director general of Press Information Bureau, said that no arrears for the period from 01.01.2020 till 30.06.2021 shall be paid.

#Cabinet approves restoring of three instalments of Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief with effect from 01.07.2021 representing an increase of 11% over the existing rate of 17% of the Basic Pay/Pension, Bhatnagar said in a tweet.

#Cabinet approves restoring of three instalments of Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief with effect from 01.07.2021 representing an increase of 11% over the existing rate of 17% of the Basic Pay/Pension. No arrears for the period from 01.01.2020 till 30.06.2021 shall be paid.  Jaideep Bhatnagar (@DG_PIB) July 14, 2021

Due to the gripping COVID-19 situation in India, the central government had restricted the increase in dearness allowance given to its employees from January 2020. The employees have been receiving DA at the rate of 17% since then. Also Read: Ola, Uber rides become expensive in Mumbai, courtesy fuel price hike

Previously, central government employees had urged that the government should pay the arrears of the dearness allowance in a retrospective manner. However, the government has denied paying any arrears for the last 18 months. Also Read: Sensex jumps 255 points to end at fresh record, Nifty claims 15,900 level

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#mute
New Delhi: Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh will lead the party for 2022 Assembly election in the state while Navjot Singh Sidhu is likely to be named as the party chief, as per sources in the party. The Congress party has been trying desperately to the resolve the infighting that has endangered the party's campaign for the state Assembly election due next year. However, an official announcement has not been made yet, it is likely to be declared soon.

This news comes nearly a week after the Chief Minister met party interim chief Sonia Gandhi in Delhi. After the meet, Singh had said said he would accept "whatever decision is taken by the Congress high command". Whilst that meeting took place days after Sidhu met Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

Sidhu had resigned from the Punjab Cabinet after he was divested of the local bodies portfolio in 2019 and has been at constant loggerheads with Amarinder Singh.

He has attacked the chief minister over the alleged delay in justice in the 2015 incidents of sacrilege and subsequent police firing. The chief minister had slammed Sidhu for continuously attacking him over the sacrilege issue and termed the former's outbursts "total indiscipline".

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New Delhi: In a stunning report of baby boom in US, a Texas hospital delivered more than a 100 babies in a span of over 90 hours, as per a report in ABC News.

The phenomenon took place at Andrews Women's Hospital in Fort Worth over two two-day periods, one in June 24 and another beginning June 28 totaling a combined 91 hours delivering 107 babies, officials were quoted as saying by the US media.

In the first 47-hour period, 25 girls and 27 boys were delivered, hospital officials said. While in the second period, 55 babies, including a set of twins were deliverd over the course of 44 hours.

Michelle Stemley director of nursing at Andrews Women's Hospital said some people gave birth in operating rooms as the usual delivery rooms were filled up. "We really tried not to rush anybody, but we definitely were not lingering. We were moving them right away, as soon as they were safe enough to go over to the postpartum floor," she said.

Notably, the hospital is already known for high number of deliveries, with an average of 16 a day, according to a press release. The Andrews Women's Hospital specializes in women's health and has a 63-bed neonatal intensive care unit, one of the largest in the state.
Companies may ban Muslim employees from wearing a headscarf under certain conditions, the European Union's top court said on Thursday (July 15) in a ruling on two cases brought by women in Germany who were suspended from their jobs for wearing one. The issue of the hijab, the traditional headscarf worn around the head and shoulders, has caused controversy across Europe for years and underlined sharp differences over integrating Muslims.

In the cases brought to court, both Muslim women - a special-needs carer at a childcare centre in Hamburg run by a charitable association, and a cashier at the Mueller drugstore chain - did not wear headscarves when they started in their jobs, but decided to do so years later after coming back from parental leave.

They were told that this was not allowed, and were at different points either suspended, told to come to work without it or put on a different job, court documents show. The EU court had to decide in both cases whether headscarf bans at work represented a violation of the freedom of religion or were allowed as part of the freedom to conduct a business and the wish to project an image of neutrality to customers.

Its response was that such bans were possible if justified by an employer's need to present a neutral image. "A prohibition on wearing any visible form of expression of political, philosophical or religious beliefs in the workplace may be justified by the employer's need to present a neutral image towards customers or to prevent social disputes," the court said.

However, that justification must correspond to a genuine need on the part of the employer, it said.

In the case of the care centre employee, the court said the rule at issue appeared to have been applied in a general and indifferentiated way, since the employer also required an employee wearing a religious cross to remove that sign.

In both cases, it will now be up to national courts to have the final say on whether there was any discrimination. The EU court already ruled in 2017 that companies may ban staff from wearing Islamic headscarves and other visible religious symbols under certain conditions, sparking a backlash among faith groups.

More than 5 million Muslims live in Germany, making them the largest religious minority group there. Headscarf bans for women at work have been a hotly contested issue in Germany for years, mostly with regard to aspiring teachers at state schools and trainee judges. This has not so far been a major theme in the campaign for this year's legislative elections.

Elsewhere in Europe, courts have also had to look into where and how headscarves can sometimes be banned at work. France's top court upheld in 2014 the dismissal of a Muslim day care worker for wearing a headscarf at a private creche that demanded strict neutrality from employees.

France, home to Europe's largest Muslim minority, prohibited the wearing of Islamic headscarves in state schools in 2004.

However, Austria's constitutional court has ruled that a law there banning girls aged up to 10 from wearing headscarves in schools was discriminatory.

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New Delhi: Ever since former president Jacob Zuma was imprisoned, South Africa has been witnessing violent protests and rioting across the country. The violence began on July 7 after Zuma began serving his 15-month sentence in contempt of court case. The riots have so far claimed 72 lives and over 1,200 arrests.

Meanwhile, there has been a massive appeal for help from the Indian community in South Africa. An Indian origin doctor in Durban, in a letter to Zee News raising the alarming condition faced by Indian doctors in the region.

"Hello. I am writting to you not knowing if I or my family will be alive tomorrow. I am a young Indian man whose great grandparents came from India as indentured labourers as slaves to work in the sugar cane plantations under colonial rule. I am a medical doctor working in Durban, South Africa. The Indian community is coming under attack in civil unrest and war. Weapons have been stocked piled in. All the food sources malls and wholesalers have been burnt. The fuel stations have been targeted to prevent movement and blown up. The communication network towers are being targeted so that we won't be able to get the message out.

Myself and other doctors are unable to get to our patients in the hospital which is even worse with the COVID pandemic. Please get the message out, we need help. Genocide has been planned in Durban Kwa Zulu natal, South Africa. We are getting trapped with no flights out. Please get this word out. Please. Pray for us before our network and internet gets cut. I love my country but bad people are using good people to hurt us. Please help.

Dr from South Africa"

The United Nations in South Africa has expressed concern about the violence that has been ripping the country. Now this Indian doctor's cry for help is a further reminder of the dangers that people are facing every day in the country.

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Durban: South Africa plans to deploy up to 25,000 soldiers in two provinces where security forces are struggling to quell days of looting, arson and violence, its defence minister told a parliamentary committee on Wednesday, according to local news channel eNCA.

A military surge of that size would increase tenfold the number of soldiers deployed in the hot spots of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng provinces, where the police and army have been battling unrest for days.

"We have now submitted a request for deployment of (about) 25,000 members," according to a video recording of Defence and Military Veterans` Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula shown on eNCA.

Triggered by the jailing of ex-president Jacob Zuma last week, after he failed to appear at a corruption inquiry, protests have widened into an orgy of looting and an outpouring of anger over the hardship and inequality that persist in South Africa 27 years after the end of apartheid.

More than 70 people have been killed in the unrest, the worst in South Africa for years, and hundreds of businesses wrecked. Food and fuel supplies are running short.

Shopping malls and warehouses have been ransacked or set ablaze in several cities, mostly in Zuma`s home in the KwaZulu-Natal province, especially the Indian Ocean port city of Durban, and the financial and economic centre Johannesburg and surrounding Gauteng province.

But in signs of a public backlash, residents in some areas on Wednesday turned suspected looters into police, blocked entrances to malls and in some cases armed themselves as vigilantes to form road blocks or scare them away.

In Vosloorus, southern Johannesburg, minibus taxi operators, many of whom have guns, fired bullets into the air to scare off looters.

"We can`t just allow people from nowhere to come and loot here," said Paul Magolego, Vosloorus taxi association spokesperson, adding that taxi drivers had had no business since Monday because of the unrest.

Underscoring the inherent dangers in such vigilantism, a 15-year-old boy was killed by a stray bullet in Vosloorus, according to a Reuters photographer who saw the body. Magolego said the taxi owners arrived on the scene after he was dead.

In Alexandra township in northern Johannesburg, one of the city`s poorest neighbourhoods, a Reuters correspondent saw soldiers moving door-to-door to confiscate stolen items, with the help of civilians opposed to the looting.

Citizens armed with guns, many from South Africa`s white minority, blocked off streets to prevent further plundering, in Durban, Reuters TV footage showed. Others were forming online groups to help clean up and rebuild devastated neighbourhoods.

`WE HAVE NOTHING`

Security forces say they have arrested more than 1,200 people, while President Cyril Ramaphosa met political party leaders on Wednesday to discuss the unrest. The violence appeared to have abated in some areas, but in others, there was renewed burning and looting. Some rich Durban residents chartered small planes and helicopters out of the city, a Reuters photographer reported.

Though triggered by Zuma`s imprisonment, the unrest reflects growing frustration at failures by the ruling African National Congress to address inequality decades after the end of white minority rule in 1994 ushered in democracy.

"It`s not about Zuma, it`s about poverty," a man who gave his name as Elijah said, as soldiers confiscated stolen items from his house in Alexandra.

"I grabbed things I could take like those cold drinks and some paint. I guess the real reason is because we actually have nothing."

Half the population lives below the poverty line, according to the latest government figures from 2015, and growing joblessness since the coronavirus pandemic began has left many desperate. Unemployment stood at a new record high of 32.6% in the first three months of 2021.

The unrest also disrupted hospitals struggling to cope with a third wave of COVID-19. The National Hospital Network (NHN), representing 241 public hospitals already under strain from Africa`s worst COVID-19 epidemic, said it was running out of oxygen and drugs, most of which are imported through Durban, as well as food.

The mayor of Ethekwini, a municipality that includes Durban, estimated that 15 billion rand ($1 billion) had been lost in damage to property and another billion in loss of stock.

"I appeal to the Zulu nation to withdraw from the participation in the destruction of our country," The Zulu King Misuzulu said in an address - many of the affected areas are predominantly Zulu, the nation to which Jacob Zuma belongs.

Zuma, 79, was sentenced last month for defying a court order to give evidence at an inquiry investigating high-level looting during his nine years in office until 2018.

He has pleaded not guilty in a separate case on charges including corruption, fraud, racketeering and money laundering.

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JOHANNESBURG: A 2-year-old girl survived unharmed after her mother threw her to safety as they escaped a burning high-rise building in the South African city of Durban during protests.

The mother, 26-year-old Naledi Manyoni, told Reuters on Wednesday that she had been on the 16th floor when the fire started on Tuesday.

She ran down the stairs with her daughter.

Manyoni made her way to a ledge above the street and tossed the toddler to a group of people below as bystanders cried out in consternation.

"After throwing her, I held my head in shock, but they caught her," Manyoni recalled outside the building as her daughter sat on her shoulders. "She kept saying, `Mama you threw me down there.` She was scared."

"What was important was for my daughter to be out of that situation... I couldn`t escape alone and leave her behind," she said as the girl, dressed in a red coat and hood, babbled and clapped her hands.

They stood on the street before burned and ransacked shops. South Africa is in the throes of one of the worst upheavals in the post-apartheid era, which began when former President Jacob Zuma was jailed last week for failing to appear for a corruption enquiry.

The protests, which started in Zuma`s home province KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday, soon turned into mass looting, arson and riots in provincial Durban and Johannesburg, the commercial hub of South Africa.
Hanoi: The United States rejects China`s "unlawful" maritime claims in the South China Sea and stands with Southeast Asian countries facing Chinese "coercion", Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Wednesday.

China rejected Blinken`s comments, which he made in an address in a video conference with foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Nations (ASEAN), as irresponsible and aimed at provoking discord.

Blinken also said the United States had "deep concerns" about the situation in Myanmar and urged the group to take action to end violence and restore democracy there.

The meeting with the 10-member bloc, which includes Myanmar, is the first since the Biden administration took office in January and comes amid concerns among diplomats and others that Washington has not been paying sufficient attention to a region that is crucial to its strategy to counter an increasingly assertive China.

ASEAN has been leading the main diplomatic effort on Myanmar since a Feb. 1 coup plunged it into turmoil.

Myanmar`s junta has shown little sign of heeding what ASEAN called a five-point consensus, reached in April, which seeks an end to violence, political talks and the nomination of a regional special envoy to Myanmar.

Blinken urged ASEAN to take "immediate action" on the consensus and appoint the envoy, State Department spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement.

Blinken asked for the release of all those "unjustly detained" in Myanmar and the restoration of its democratic transition, Price said.

On the disputed South China Sea, Blinken emphasised the U.S. rejection of China`s "unlawful maritime claims" and said the United States "stands with Southeast Asian claimants in the face of coercion", Price said.

China said the comments were aimed at derailing regional peace and stability. "It is extremely irresponsible of the U.S. to deliberately provoke controversy over territorial sovereignty and maritime rights in the South China Sea, sow discord among China and ASEAN countries," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told a briefing in Beijing.

WELCOME EMBRACE

China claims vast swathes of the South China Sea via its unilaterally declared, U-shaped, "nine-dash line" which overlaps with the exclusive economic zones of Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and the Philippines, all ASEAN members.

Trillions of dollars in trade flow every year through the waterway, which also contains rich fishing grounds and gas fields.

In addition to the South China Sea, the Mekong River has become a new front in U.S.-China rivalry, with Beijing overtaking Washington in both spending and influence over downstream countries at the mercy of its control of the river`s waters.

Price said Blinken "pledged continued U.S. support for a free and open Mekong region under the Mekong-U.S. Partnership".

Malaysian Foreign Minister Hishammuddin Hussein said he hoped Wednesday`s meeting signalled a "refreshed commitment" to U.S. multilateral cooperation.

"We understand that multilateralism was not a key focus for the previous administration, but the Biden administration`s embrace of multilateral cooperation is a welcome development," Hishammuddin said, according to a copy of his delivered remarks.

"This path is the only way forward to ensure stability, peace, prosperity and security for our region."

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